He’s legally separated from his soulmate, Sarah. She’s on the outs with her good guy boyfriend, JJ. It leaves both Xander and Gabi free for a new romance on Days of our Lives, and it’s a surprise coupling that could actually thrive.
Xander & Gabi’s Parental Bonding
The pair started bonding innocently enough when Xander (Paul Telfer) was having a difficult time caring for his young daughter, Victoria, at the Titan office complex. Gabi arrived just in time to soothe the fussing toddler, impressing a grateful Xander and imparting some maternal wisdom: Victoria is at the age where she simply wants and needs her mother. Xander received the message loud and clear, promptly arranging a visit between the tyke and Sarah (Linsey Godfrey).
Meanwhile, Gabi (Cherie Jimenez) opened up to Xander about her daughter, Arianna (Marissa Ramirez, who had gone missing during a senior class trip. Xander not only listened but also offered Gabi support and a warm embrace when she broke down in his arms in tears. It was another step in the pair’s next connection, and it played out beautifully.
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Expect the Unexpected on DAYS
Not that viewers were ever expecting it. When Gwen (Emily O’Brien) resurfaced in Salem right after Xander’s marriage imploded, it was the natural assumption that he would rebound in his former fiancée’s arms.
But the soap’s writers threw fans a curve, having Xander quickly rebuff his ex after they shared a few steamy kisses. Having Xander take an interest in Gabi instead was an intriguing surprise and a nice change of pace. It was a fresh twist rife with possibilities, and so far it’s played out seamlessly, largely because there’s a natural, easy flow between the two characters and the actors who portray them.
Xander and Gabi Have Similar Sordid Souls
Parenthood and being suddenly single aside, Xander and Gabi are also cut from the same cloth. They’re both driven by power and corporate machinations. Neither is afraid to cross over to the wrong side of the law when necessary. And they both share a criminal past. In fact, Gabi’s probably one of the few women in Salem who can go toe-to-toe with Xander when it comes to their list of misdemeanors and murder.
Together, the two could freely thrive in their own skin and be who they truly are. Xander wouldn’t have to worry about towing the line and disappointing Gabi, the way he always has Sarah. And Gabi wouldn’t have to play the nice, good girl to fit JJ’s (Casey Moss) image of the perfect mate. Given the opportunity, Xander and Gabi really have a chance to succeed and perhaps even emerge as one of the show’s most exciting couples in years.
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