A gloomy atmosphere prevails when Stephanie appears with a worried face.

She tries to hide her slight trembling, but Kayla – the perceptive mother – immediately notices.

Kayla gently asks: “What are you afraid of, Stephanie?”

Stephanie is confused. There are not just one but two worries.

At the clinic, she is under enormous pressure when doing PR for EJ – who is full of scandals. Every word she says can cause a storm. But at the same time, in love, Alex adds more pressure: is it time for them to live together? Stephanie is not ready, but she does not dare to refuse outright.

Kayla listens, gives her daughter loving advice, reminds her to choose the path that is truly suitable for her heart. At this moment, motherly love becomes a bright spot, easing the tension of the episode.

Meanwhile, another story is deeply moving: Julie has always been by Foster’s side at the bookstore. But now, Foster shows signs of alarming health. He shares his intention to sell the store and return to his family, leaving Julie speechless. She understands that behind that decision is a fear of illness, perhaps more serious than he dares to admit.

Julie is faced with a difficult choice: keep Foster in Salem to continue fighting, or let him leave with regret. Her tears fall silently, and the audience understands that Salem is not only a place of intrigue, but also a land where friendship, love and loss always go hand in hand.