While Rafe was racing against time in DiMera crypt, the Christmas atmosphere at the Hortons was as cold as the snow outside.

Julie Williams, the heart and soul of the Horton family, shocked Salem by announcing the cancellation of their annual Christmas celebration – a tradition that had lasted for over 50 years.

In a room filled with candles and wreaths, Julie stood among her relatives, her hands trembling as she held an ornament bearing Doug Horton’s name.

“We can’t celebrate Christmas without knowing if they’re alive,” she said, her voice choked with emotion. Those words pierced the hearts of everyone present.

The Horton family members were silent. Jennifer couldn’t hold back her tears as she looked at the empty table where Chad and Thomas had been, who hadn’t returned. Jack Deveraux tried to appear strong, but his eyes were glued to his phone, hoping for news from Rafe. In the corner of the room, Maggie lit a small candle for the missing, softly saying, “They will come back, Julie. Salem has never lost hope.”

This scene caused a social media frenzy. Fans shared the hashtag #SaveSalemChristmas, commenting, “I can’t believe Julie – the keeper of tradition – is the one extinguishing the candle of hope.” But a closer look reveals Julie’s decision held a soft power: she didn’t cancel Christmas, she only postponed it until everyone was safely back.

And like a miracle, the final preview shows young Thomas Horton standing by the window, singing Silent Night with tears in his eyes, while outside, snow falls and a faint light flickers from the church – suggesting that Salem is about to experience a magical reunion night.