Salem is heading straight into another emotional and suspense-filled crossroads on Days of Our Lives this Wednesday, January 28, as shocking revelations,

risky strategies, and deeply personal struggles collide. From troubling news that rocks Abe Carver to a high-stakes plan designed to expose Stephanie Johnson’s mysterious stalker,

the day’s events promise to shift several storylines in powerful—and potentially dangerous—ways. Meanwhile, longtime friends Marlena Evans and

Kayla Johnson share a rare moment of celebration, and Johnny DiMera seeks guidance that could change the course of his future.

As always in Salem, no victory comes without consequences, and no plan survives contact with the truth.

Rafe’s Revelation Leaves Abe Reeling

At the center of the episode is Rafe Hernandez, who finds himself juggling two cases that refuse to stay neatly separated. While the Salem Police Department continues to struggle with larger threats beyond its control, Rafe narrows his focus to two pressing mysteries: the skeletal remains uncovered at the DiMera crypt and the increasingly alarming stalker targeting Stephanie Johnson.

Both cases, surprisingly, circle back to Abe Carver.

Rafe arrives with news that sends a chill through Abe, forcing him to confront possibilities he never expected. The connection may be deeply personal—either through the identity of the skeleton or through the unsettling suspicion that the person obsessed with Stephanie could be Liam, a young man Abe knows well and has been tutoring.

The idea that Liam could be involved transforms the situation from a routine investigation into something far more painful. Abe is a man defined by integrity, patience, and compassion, particularly when it comes to guiding young people. If someone he has been trying to help turns out to be responsible for terrorizing Stephanie, it would be a devastating blow—both professionally and emotionally.

Even worse, if Liam is connected to darker secrets buried in Salem’s past, Abe may be forced to confront unresolved grief and old wounds that never truly healed. Whatever Rafe reveals, one thing is clear: this news shakes Abe’s faith in his own judgment and threatens to upend his sense of control.

A Clever Trap—and the Risk That Comes With It

While Abe struggles to process Rafe’s revelation, Steve Johnson, Stephanie, Alex Kiriakis, and Jada Hunter move forward with what they believe is a carefully crafted plan to finally expose Stephanie’s stalker.

The group is convinced they’re closing in. Whether the suspect is Liam or someone else entirely, they believe the stalker can be lured into revealing themselves. The strategy is bold, calculated, and—on the surface—brilliant. Stephanie will serve as the bait, drawing out the person who has been watching her, fixating on her, and crossing dangerous lines.

Steve’s involvement signals just how serious the threat has become. He is not a man who takes chances with his family’s safety, and his willingness to proceed shows that all other options may be exhausted. Jada brings official authority and investigative instincts, while Alex contributes both physical presence and emotional investment. Alex, in particular, is determined to protect Stephanie, though his intensity raises questions about whether he’ll be able to stick to the plan when emotions run high.

The group believes they are one step ahead. But in Salem, that confidence is often misplaced.

There’s an unspoken tension hovering over the plan—the sense that it might work too well or not at all. If the stalker is as obsessed and calculating as evidence suggests, being cornered could provoke a reckless and violent response. And if the wrong person is accused, the fallout could be just as damaging as letting the real culprit remain free.

Still, the team presses forward, convinced that action is better than waiting. For Stephanie, the plan represents hope—an end to the fear that has followed her everywhere. But it also places her directly in harm’s way, underscoring just how high the stakes have become.

A Moment of Light for Marlena and Kayla

Amid the tension and danger, Wednesday’s episode offers a rare and meaningful pause as Marlena Evans and Kayla Johnson come together to celebrate a milestone.

Kayla has been Marlena’s steadfast support since she lost John, quietly checking in, offering comfort, and refusing to let her friend grieve alone. Though time has passed, Kayla understands that loss doesn’t follow a schedule—and that healing often requires gentle reminders to keep living.

Now, with something positive to mark, Kayla is determined that Marlena truly celebrate it. Their moment together is filled with warmth, reflection, and the deep bond forged through decades of shared hardship. These scenes serve as an emotional anchor for the episode, reminding viewers why these women are considered the heart of Salem.

Yet even in celebration, there is an undercurrent of concern. Both women are mothers, mentors, and protectors, keenly aware that their loved ones are facing serious threats. The joy they share feels fragile—beautiful, but tinged with the knowledge that calm never lasts long in Salem.

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Johnny Turns to Kate—and Steps Into Dangerous Territory

Elsewhere, Johnny DiMera faces a very different kind of challenge as he turns to Kate Roberts for professional advice.

On paper, the decision makes sense. Kate is experienced, shrewd, and deeply entrenched in Salem’s business world. She is also, in a complicated way, family. Not his grandmother—but his aunt by marriage—and certainly someone who understands the DiMera way of doing things.

Johnny, however, is walking a fine line.

Seeking Kate’s guidance may help him navigate a tricky professional situation, but it also places him within reach of someone known for playing the long game. Kate rarely makes a move that doesn’t benefit her, and her advice often comes with strings attached.

For Johnny, who is still defining himself outside the shadow of his powerful family, this interaction could be pivotal. Will he learn how to survive in Salem’s ruthless business culture? Or will his trust be exploited, pulling him deeper into schemes he never intended to join?

The scene highlights Johnny’s ongoing struggle: he wants to be honorable in a world that rewards manipulation. Whether that idealism will protect him—or destroy him—remains to be seen.

What Comes Next in Salem

Wednesday’s Days of Our Lives episode weaves together personal heartbreak, strategic gambles, and emotional resilience. Abe faces news that could forever alter how he sees someone he’s tried to help. Stephanie and her allies prepare to confront a stalker whose obsession may be more dangerous than they realize. Marlena and Kayla remind us that friendship and love endure even in the darkest times. And Johnny edges closer to choices that may define his future.

As the hourglass continues to turn, Salem stands on the brink of revelation. Some secrets are about to come into the light—and when they do, no one involved will emerge unchanged.