This year’s Christmas in Salem came late, but the emotions were overwhelming, like a storm.

Chad DiMera was finally reunited with his two children – Thomas and Charlotte – at a Christmas tree decorating party at the Hortons’ house.

The atmosphere was filled with laughter, but hidden beneath it was a moment that brought tears to the audience’s eyes: Thomas decided to confess to his father something he had kept to himself during their time apart.

Thomas – the DiMera boy always known for his quick wit and mature gaze – stood before Chad, trembling as he confessed that he had been angry with his father for “being gone for too long.”

Not because Chad had done anything wrong, but because the child had carried within him a fear of being forgotten. That small statement froze Chad, and the audience fell silent. From a character who once lived amidst intrigue and hatred, Chad is now just a father embracing his children, promising never to let them feel abandoned again.

Jack and Jennifer Horton have just brought the children back from Boston to Salem, brightening up the entire Horton household. Julie – the keeper of the family tradition – still held a Christmas party, even though things were a few days late this year. The scene of Thomas and Charlotte running around the Christmas tree, then pulling Chad into singing along, reminded many viewers of a time when Salem was filled with laughter instead of scheming.