In a tense confrontation, Philip comes clean to Belle about the Titan deal, admitting that the entire arrangement was built on falsified evidence. Belle is stunned by the revelation and begins to fear that, unknowingly, she may have played a part in fraudulent activity. Philip further reveals that Vivian was involved in the deception and confesses that it was Xander’s discovery of the truth that ultimately pushed him to admit everything.
Belle, visibly shaken and angry, makes it clear that while she’s furious, her lingering feelings for EJ complicate her emotions toward Philip. When Philip anxiously asks if he could face legal consequences, Belle tells him flatly that she can’t help him in her capacity as District Attorney and urges him to contact Justin for legal representation. He apologizes for dragging her into the situation.
Elsewhere, at Stephanie’s home, Alex talks about plans to see Notebook: The Musical. However, the night takes a detour when they stop at Sarah’s, only for tensions to escalate. Xander arrives, upset and betrayed, having learned that Stephanie and Alex were aware of the truth about Philip and helped cover it up with a fabricated story about an affair. He accuses them of cowardice and prioritizing business over integrity. Despite their explanations, Xander is unmoved—his trust has been shattered.
Meanwhile, Roman pays Kayla a visit under the guise of checking on Johnny. In truth, he’s fishing for information about EJ. Kayla shares a surprising medical update: EJ’s coma may have actually aided in the healing of his brain, and it’s possible he remembers the identity of his shooter.
Back in EJ’s hospital room, Susan pleads with Kayla to wake him. When Belle arrives, Susan urges her to speak to EJ. Belle, emotionally vulnerable, holds EJ’s hand and confesses that she loves him—moments later, EJ opens his eyes.
As Stephanie and Alex return home, they express remorse over their role in helping Philip. Sarah, witnessing their distress, begins to feel the weight of guilt as well. Meanwhile, Xander receives a phone call from Wei Shin, who issues a dire warning: the unfolding scandal could jeopardize the entire Titan-DiMera contract.