As the sun rises over Salem next week, expect storm clouds of secrets, heartbreak, and unexpected revelations to roll in with relentless force. “Days of Our Lives,” the long-running soap opera that has captivated fans for over five decades, is preparing to unleash a whirlwind of emotion and intrigue that will leave viewers reeling. Loyalties will be tested, shocking returns will upend carefully laid plans, and relationships will hang in the balance as the drama intensifies.

Here’s your in-depth, spoiler-filled preview of what’s coming next week on “Days of Our Lives.”

A Dangerous Game of Deception: Kristen’s Next Move

Kristen DiMera (Stacy Haiduk) continues to play a high-stakes game as she inches closer to reclaiming her power in Salem. Next week, Kristen launches a bold new scheme that threatens to shatter several lives, including that of Brady Black (Eric Martsolf). After months of lurking in the shadows, Kristen is ready to step back into the spotlight—but on her own terms.

With Rachel caught in the middle of her parents’ complicated history, Kristen’s manipulative tactics may force Brady into making a dangerous decision to protect his daughter. But as Kristen tightens her grip, will Brady play into her hands, or will he strike a deal with an unlikely ally to outmaneuver her?

Eric and Nicole Face a Shocking Reality

Eric Brady (Greg Vaughan) and Nicole Walker (Arianne Zucker) are no strangers to turmoil, but next week, the couple will be confronted by a truth that could change everything. With the baby switch storyline coming to a head, new evidence surfaces that could unravel Sloan’s (Jessica Serfaty) carefully spun web of lies.

Sources reveal that Nicole will stumble upon a clue—possibly a document or a piece of overheard conversation—that leads her to question the paternity of baby Jude. As Nicole races to piece the puzzle together, Sloan begins to feel the walls closing in. Will Nicole learn that her biological son is alive—and that Sloan stole him? And if so, how will Eric react when he discovers the truth about the baby he’s been raising?

Expect an explosive confrontation before week’s end that could not only destroy Sloan’s future with Eric but also reignite an old flame between Nicole and her former love.

Xander and Sarah: Wedding Bells or Warning Signs?

Just when fans thought Xander Cook (Paul Telfer) and Sarah Horton (Linsey Godfrey) were finally heading toward their happily ever after, a new threat emerges to challenge their fragile reunion. The couple is preparing to walk down the aisle, but complications arise when an unexpected guest crashes their pre-wedding festivities.

Rumors suggest that the intruder may be none other than Philip Kiriakis (John-Paul Lavoisier), back in town and harboring unresolved feelings for Sarah. His return could reawaken a love triangle that Sarah hoped was long buried.

As tensions rise, Xander’s insecurities flare, prompting him to question Sarah’s commitment. Could a moment of weakness or a hidden secret ruin their shot at marital bliss?

Chad and Everett: A Clash Over Stephanie

Stephanie Johnson (Abigail Klein) finds herself at the center of a simmering rivalry between Chad DiMera (Billy Flynn) and Everett Lynch (Blake Berris). While Stephanie attempts to move forward from the heartbreak of her split with Chad, unresolved feelings continue to complicate her budding connection with Everett.

Next week, the tension between the two men reaches a boiling point when Chad confronts Everett over his intentions. Sparks fly, and fists may too, as both men try to stake a claim on Stephanie’s heart.

Meanwhile, Stephanie herself is beginning to question whether she truly has feelings for Everett or if she’s using him to mend a broken heart. Will she finally confront her own emotions—or risk losing both men in the process?

Paulina’s Health Crisis: A Turning Point

In a deeply emotional turn, Paulina Price (Jackée Harry) continues to battle her health crisis with the unwavering support of her daughter, Chanel (Raven Bowens), and husband, Abe Carver (James Reynolds). But next week, Paulina’s condition takes a turn for the worse, prompting urgent medical decisions that could forever change the Price-Carver family dynamic.

As the community of Salem rallies around Paulina, expect heartfelt scenes and powerful performances from the cast. A surprise visit from Lani (Sal Stowers), who returns with news of her own, could provide the emotional catharsis fans have been hoping for.

Stefan and Ava: A Dangerous Alliance Deepens

The unlikely alliance between Stefan DiMera (Brandon Barash) and Ava Vitali (Tamara Braun) continues to evolve into one of Salem’s most volatile pairings. Next week, the duo plots their next move in an effort to take down EJ DiMera (Dan Feuerriegel), who remains one of the biggest threats to their freedom and fortune.

Ava, torn between loyalty and revenge, begins to second-guess the cost of aligning with Stefan. However, a risky deal involving Clyde Weston (James Read) forces her hand, dragging her deeper into the underworld.

Meanwhile, Stefan’s thirst for power clouds his judgment, and a misstep could expose their entire operation. Expect this plotline to escalate dramatically as secrets spill and alliances fray.

Surprise Returns and Unfinished Business

As if the drama in Salem weren’t enough, next week teases the return of two familiar faces who bring with them secrets from the past. One return promises romantic tension for a current couple, while the other may offer redemption—or revenge.

Rumors are swirling that one of the returnees is Hope Brady (Kristian Alfonso), whose appearance could signal new complications for Harris Michaels (Steve Burton). Meanwhile, fans speculate that the second return could involve Theresa Donovan (Emily O’Brien), whose ties to Alex Kiriakis (Robert Scott Wilson) remain murky.

Both characters are expected to re-enter Salem with unfinished business and dramatic storylines that will shape the show’s summer trajectory.

Final Thoughts: Salem’s Pulse Quickens

Next week on “Days of Our Lives” is not for the faint of heart. With each passing day, long-held secrets inch closer to the surface, and emotional explosions seem inevitable. Whether you’re rooting for reconciliation or waiting for betrayals to come to light, Salem is delivering a masterclass in suspenseful soap storytelling.

As the dominoes begin to fall, one thing is certain: no one in Salem will come out unscathed.

Stay tuned, because the drama is just heating up.