Five Years have passed……….

He stepped off the plane and proceeded to survey the surroundings. His years of training taking over as he watched those around him. His senses heightened in response to any threat. He slid on the dark sunglasses in an attempt to remain inconspicuous. His driver was waiting outside for him to escort him to his next mission. He got into the car and motioned for the driver to proceed. He watched the scenery as they drove along the road. He thought to himself, “So This is Salem”

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Ali rubbed her eyes as she tried to wake up. She had a busy day ahead and really needed to get up. Today was the day she was going to open up her office. Her life’s work inspired by the taking of her brother. She had become a private investigator and was excited to open up her own office. She was still consumed with helping her parents find her brother, even though others had long since given up hope, she wouldn’t rest until her brother was found.

She started making a pot of tea and then headed for the door to retrieve the newspaper. She opened the door and was startled to find her father on the other side of the door. He was still handsome as ever. The years only made him look more distinguished. He had a touch of gray at his temples but still had that same sparkle in his eye and charm that oozed from every pore. He leaned in and kissed his daughter on the cheek, “G’morning Love. Looking for this?”, he said as he handed her the paper. He winked at her, “You don’t actually read that rubbish now do you?”

 Ali smiled, “Good morning to you too Daddy. What brings you here today?” EJ poured himself a cup of tea and sat at the table, “Do you really think I would miss my baby girl’s big day? By the way your mother will be over in a little while. She wanted to pick up something for your office first.” Ali rolled her eyes, her mother always had a knack for wanting to redecorate. Ali poured herself some tea and ate some toast. “Oh daddy you would be so proud. I already have a client.”

 EJ beamed with pride, “I knew it wouldn’t be long before someone hired the best P.I. in the business. One can’t do better than a DiMera now eh”, he winked at her, “So who is this mystery client, do tell”.  Ali folded up the newspaper in front of her and sat back in the chair, “Well I have a meeting in an hour so I will find out. I’m very excited though. The only thing that would make it complete is…”   “Johnny,” they said in unison.

Ali got dressed and was almost set to leave. “Oh here darling, it’s a good luck present from your mother and I,” he said as he handed her a large gift bag. She eagerly pulled at the tissue paper to reveal a leather briefcase. She flung her arms around her father’s neck and kissed him, “Thanks daddy!”

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She flipped the light switch at the office and looked around. It was so quiet, almost too quiet. She closed the door and took a seat at her desk. She glanced at her watch and realized that her client was due any minute. She decided to make some coffee and put out some pastries. She had just finished arranging everything when she heard the door open. The sunlight obscured her vision for a moment but then she saw him.

Dark hair and slender framed. He carried himself with an aire of arrogance. A part of her instantly disliked him yet for some unknown reason she was drawn to him. She straightened her skirt and walked up to him. She extended her hand to welcome him. He removed his sunglasses to reveal piercing blue eyes that sent shivers down her spine. She cleared her throat and shrugged off the feeling of fear, “Pleased to meet you. I’m Ali DiMera.”

He blatantly ignored her attempt to shake his hand and sat down in the chair, “Let’s skip the pleasantries shall we? I’d like to get down to business.” Ali’s eyes burned with disdain and anger as she took a seat behind her desk, “Of course, I would however appreciate knowing with whom I am working”

 He smiled at her, almost admiring her spunk, “The name is DiMera. Giovanni DiMera”