The drama in Salem escalates as the trial intensifies, secrets unravel, and loyalties are tested in this upcoming stretch of Days of Our Lives. With the verdict looming, every decision and revelation carries devastating consequences for the families caught in the storm.

On Tuesday, Belle takes her turn in court, cross-examining Chanel. The questioning raises suspicions about the deepfake video that has plagued Chanel’s reputation and cast doubt on Johnny’s defense. If the jury begins to believe Chanel isn’t the shooter, then the weight of suspicion shifts dangerously back onto Johnny. The issue is time: proving the video is fake may require more evidence than the defense can gather before the verdict arrives.

Tensions between Johnny and EJ boil over. Johnny declares that EJ crossed a line, prompting him to fire his father as his attorney. Despite Belle’s warnings—and the old saying that “a lawyer who represents himself has a fool for a client”—Johnny decides to go it alone in the courtroom. With the trial nearly finished, his choice could either mark a bold stand for independence or seal his downfall. Meanwhile, Belle confides in Marina, revealing her frustration with EJ’s behavior and the impossible bind the family finds themselves in.

The day ends with a revelation that shakes Salem to its core: the true shooter is finally exposed. According to early leaks, the person who pulled the trigger is none other than Rachel. The stunning twist forces everyone to reassess where their loyalties lie. Kristen is faced with a painful truth about her daughter, while EJ is left grappling with the reality that Rachel—someone he never saw as a threat—was behind the attack that nearly destroyed him.

Elsewhere, Chad and Cat grow closer. Their blossoming bond deepens, but Cat faces the pressure of hiding her ISA ties. How long can she keep her secret before Chad discovers the truth about the double life she’s been leading?

On Wednesday, August 20th, the fallout continues. Gabby receives an update from Steve about the Titan investigation. What he reveals could prove valuable in her ongoing efforts to drive a wedge between the Kiriakis brothers—Xander and Phillip. Salem’s corporate chessboard is shifting, and Gabby is determined to secure her advantage.

Meanwhile, Alex considers hiring Stephanie to run PR, possibly within Titan itself. His decision seems motivated by concern that bigger storms are coming. At the same time, Alex and Xander discuss questionable details buried in important documents Alex passed along. If corruption or secrets are hidden in the paperwork, it could ignite another scandal.

Kristen is cornered by the reality of Rachel’s guilt, and she must finally accept the truth. EJ and Marina talk through the next steps. Despite the betrayal, EJ doesn’t want to punish Rachel. His focus remains squarely on saving Johnny from a wrongful conviction, though he’s painfully aware of how many lives have been shattered by the trial. Belle insists Marina knows more than she admits, possibly through hypnosis or intuition, while EJ weighs his limited options.

Later, Philip shares a heartfelt moment with Belle, telling her she deserves better than EJ. But Philip’s own shady past complicates his words. Is he truly offering comfort, or just seizing an opportunity to edge closer to her?

On Thursday, August 21st, the emotional toll spreads. Brady comforts his son, Tate, who continues to reel from the painful secret adoption scandal. The boy’s heartbreak over losing contact with his baby leaves Brady desperate to heal the damage. Meanwhile, Marina distracts Rachel while Kristen pleads with EJ to delay. But EJ knows there’s no more time—the verdict is imminent, and Johnny’s future is on the line.

Elsewhere, Sarah pressures Sophia to come clean about Tisto. Yet Sophia hesitates, caught in a whirlwind of jealousy, pain, and confusion. Her refusal to speak the truth could keep dangerous secrets buried—and prolong the suffering of those already hanging by a thread.

As the week barrels forward, Salem is left teetering on the edge. With Rachel’s shocking reveal, Johnny’s reckless courtroom gamble, and looming verdicts both in court and in love, lives will be upended. Every character faces a choice—protect their own interests or sacrifice for those they love. In true Salem fashion, no decision will come without a cost.