Kate Roberts was once the iron woman of Salem, but the new year of 2026 opens with irreparable family rifts.

After a near-fatal car accident, Kate is brought home by her son Philip and granddaughter Chloe.

Everyone thought she would find peace and rest — until a familiar face appears: Lucas Horton, her long-estranged son.

The initial reunion is emotional, but just minutes later, the atmosphere turns cold.

Lucas accuses his mother of “abandoning him for power,” while Kate retorts: “I spent my whole life trying to fix you.” The exchange of words escalates into a fierce argument. Marlena, who happens to be visiting Kate, has to intervene: “You can hate each other, but don’t forget you’re still blood.”

The scene of Kate breaking down in tears, clutching her chest in physical and emotional pain, deeply moved fans. At the end of the episode, Lucas quietly places a letter on the table: “I forgive you, Mom, but I can’t stay.” This line brings viewers to tears—it’s both bitter and humane, perfectly capturing the spirit of Days of Our Lives.