Thwarted in her many attempts to convince wealthy Victor Kiriakis to marry her (so she could get her hands on his money), Kate tried and failed to kill him! As a result of her diabolical deeds, she was left destitute and alone. Victor runs Titan (a conglomerate with interests in fashion, publishing and makeup) along with his former lover, and Kate's nemesis, Nicole Walker.

While down and out, Kate manipulated Philip, her son with Victor, to have Victor give her money so she could get back on her feet. Kate learned about entrepreneur John Black's new fashion company, Basic Black, and after she sent in a resume, John hired her. Since John was married to Victor's late daughter, Isabella, Victor threatened to destroy him as a result of his disloyal actions in hiring Kate. But John moved forward with his decision and Kate is currently working for John.

Meanwhile, Victor and Kate's son, Philip, has been hoping that his parents get back together. Philip bad-mouthed Nicole to Victor, but Victor stressed that he and Kate would not be reuniting. Philip accused Victor of choosing Nicole over him. As a result, Victor decided to ask Nicole to move out. Nicole was convinced that Kate was behind her "eviction" and threatened revenge. Of course, Kate was thrilled to learn from Philip that Nicole was ordered out of the mansion. She vowed to win back everything: her fortune, her job at Titan and Victor!

However, Victor realized he really did love Nicole and he decided to ask her to marry him. Victor presented Nicole with an enormous diamond ring. She agreed to wear the ring while she decided whether to accept his proposal. But when Victor realized that Nicole was really in love with Austin, he called off their relationship for good. Of course, Victor does not like to lose at anything-including love-so he fired Nicole. Nicole convinced him that he couldn't afford to lose her, and he agreed. But now that Nicole is embarking on a relationship with Colin, Victor is less than pleased...