Salem is bracing for heartbreak, romance, and explosive secrets as Days of Our Lives heads into the final stretch of February sweeps. From February 16 through the 27th,

the canvas shifts dramatically: Chad DiMera says a tearful goodbye, Brady Black takes a cautious leap toward love, and multiple schemers set dangerous plans in motion

that could change everything.

Chad’s Goodbye Marks the End of an Era

The most emotional turning point of the fortnight belongs to Chad. After months of grief and soul-searching following Abigail’s tragic death, Chad makes the wrenching decision to leave Salem with his children, Thomas and Charlotte.

Before departing, Chad visits Abigail’s grave in a quiet, devastating scene that underscores just how deeply her loss continues to haunt him. Standing before the headstone, he promises to carry a piece of her—and Salem—with him wherever he goes. In a tender Valentine’s Day gesture, he places a pink conversation heart at her grave, wishing his late wife a happy Valentine’s Day. It’s a moment of raw vulnerability that reminds viewers why Chad and Abigail’s love story remains one of the show’s most cherished romances.

Later, at Julie’s house, Chad breaks down while holding their wedding photo, overwhelmed by memories of the life he once had. Jack and Jennifer share emotional farewells with Chad and the children, knowing this goodbye could reshape the Horton and DiMera families for good.

Though recasts are expected in the months ahead, this exit feels monumental—a closing chapter on a defining era for Salem.

Brady and Sarah: A Romance Rekindled?

While one love story ends, another tentatively begins.

Brady and Sarah find themselves drawn together during an impromptu Valentine’s Day lunch that quickly turns romantic. Though both are wary of the emotional minefields surrounding them—particularly Kristen’s lingering presence in Brady’s life—they cannot deny the spark.

After weeks of cautious conversations and lingering glances, Brady and Sarah finally share a kiss. It’s tender, hopeful, and fraught with complications. Brady has been warned to set boundaries where Kristen and Rachel are concerned, especially regarding his love life. Whether those boundaries will be respected remains to be seen.

The pair attempt to steal another private moment later in the week, but Salem is notorious for secrets never staying hidden. If Kristen or Rachel catch wind of their growing closeness, fireworks are inevitable.

Xander and Gwen Reignite Old Flames

Elsewhere, Xander and Gwen take their flirtation to a much more intimate level. What begins as playful “golf lessons” quickly escalates into a passionate encounter that lands Xander in Gwen’s bed.

But beneath the heat lies emotional uncertainty. For Gwen, this rekindling may represent hope for a renewed romance. For Xander, however, lingering feelings for Sarah remain unresolved. Even after spending the night with Gwen, it’s clear his heart may still be divided.

As Gwen later confides in Kristen, both women seem momentarily triumphant—Gwen with Xander, Kristen still entrenched in Brady’s orbit. But Salem history suggests their celebrations may be premature.

Leo and Dimitri Go on the Run

Intrigue intensifies as Dimitri convinces Leo that he has been framed in the DiMera kidnapping scandal. Determined to clear Dimitri’s name, the duo hatch a risky plan that sends them jetting off to Alamain territory in search of answers.

Their mission, however, is far from straightforward. With legal restrictions and powerful enemies looming, Leo and Dimitri quickly discover they are unwelcome guests. Vivian’s shadow still looms large, even in her absence, and her associates are prepared to “tie up loose ends.”

Danger escalates as henchmen maneuver behind the scenes, potentially putting Liam in the crosshairs. As February sweeps wind down, the stakes for everyone connected to the DiMera drama rise sharply.

EJ Faces New Suspicions

Back in Salem, EJ grows wary of Cat’s probing questions about his past—particularly memories tied to an Italian hospital. Is she trying to unlock something buried deep within him? Or is she digging into secrets better left undisturbed?

EJ’s suspicions lead him to question Rita, signaling that he may be piecing together a puzzle others hoped would remain unsolved. Meanwhile, shocking developments involving a mysterious woman in a lab tube promise to ignite a new wave of scandal, especially once Rafe inevitably discovers what’s been hidden.

Romance and Rivalries Intensify

Gabby, newly enlightened about Vivian’s manipulation and Stefan’s tragic fate, leans on Philip as they escape to Miami. What begins as emotional healing soon turns steamy, with the pair diving headfirst into a passionate getaway. Yet Theo’s unresolved feelings for Gabby threaten to complicate matters. During a Valentine’s Day date with Jada, Theo finds himself distracted—imagining Gabby instead. If he acts on those feelings, Gabby and Philip’s happiness could be short-lived.

Meanwhile, social media chaos swirls as Sophia gleefully orchestrates Holly’s downfall. Holly spirals under the pressure, and Tate struggles to figure out how to help. Ari, too, notices Holly’s troubling behavior, setting the stage for further teen turmoil.

A Kidnapping Rocks Salem

As if heartbreak and romance weren’t enough, Stephanie’s world is about to implode. A kidnapping at her workplace sends shockwaves through Salem, with suspicion immediately falling on Jeremy. The escalating stalker storyline adds a chilling undercurrent to an already explosive fortnight.

At the same time, Steve and Kayla celebrate their anniversary at the Bistro, offering a rare moment of warmth and nostalgia amid the chaos. Abe and Paulina also toast to love, reminding viewers that even in Salem, enduring relationships can survive the storm.

Unanswered Questions Linger

As February sweeps conclude, major questions remain unanswered. Will Brady and Sarah’s romance survive Kristen’s interference? Can Leo and Dimitri outmaneuver powerful enemies? Will Chad’s departure permanently alter the DiMera-Horton legacy?

And what about Joy Wesley’s pregnancy? With her baby due soon, Salem may yet face another life-changing twist.

Over these two pivotal weeks, Days of Our Lives delivers heartbreak, passion, and high-stakes drama in classic soap fashion. With Chad’s tearful goodbye marking the end of one chapter and Brady daring to open his heart again, Salem stands at a crossroads—where love and loss collide, and no secret stays buried for long.