Chapter 12
Two days later, Carrie and Austin arrived, driving themselves from the airport, and Tommy's family expanded again. Carrie was overjoyed at the John/Marlena reunion.
Hugging them fiercely, she said, "Oh, John, Marlena, it's wonderful to see you together again. And, John, I'm so happy to see you!"
"I'm so happy to see you too, Carrie. I've missed you. I'm sorry I wasn't at your wedding - but then, again, no one was since you eloped, right?. But from the looks of you and Austin, the two of you are crazy in love, and that couldn't make me prouder or more thankful. Your happiness means the world to me."
She hugged him even harder. "Thank you, John. The truth is, our wedding wasn't complete without you there. In fact there's been a big hole in my life since you left. Now, that empty space is full again with your presence."
"Same here. No one but you can fill the special place that is always yours in my heart, Carrie. I loved being your dad. And even though you are a married woman now, if ever you need me for anything, I'll be there for you. You have always been part of the Brady family. You are a Brady. I'm not, but Marlena and I are re-building our family, and you are an integral part of that family. Whether we're here or in Salem or somewhere else, you and Austin are always, always welcome any time, day or night. Our home is your home. Our time is your time if you need us."