Salem Days – By Unknown Author

John stood in his living room looking at his fiancée’s blank face. The two of them were discussing Marlena’s disappearance when suddenly John noticed that Kristen looked preoccupied with something else. He wasn’t sure what was on her mind, but he could tell from the look on her face that it wasn’t good. “Did you hear me Kristen?” he asked breaking through the silence. “Huh?” Susan said realizing that he was directing his question towards her. She still hadn’t gotten used to him calling her Kristen. “What did you say?” “Do you think that we should cancel this ceremony until I find Doc?” John asked Susan once again. “What if we never find her?” Susan asked pretending to be upset about Marlena’s disappearance. She watched John as he held her hand. “I will find Doc. That is a fact Kristen and I will bring her home.” he said kissing her hand. “When I find the monsters that took her, they are going to pay dearly.” “Oh John,” Susan whispered realizing how mad he would be to know that she was really Susan. He would be so angry with her if he found out that she had Marlena and Kristen locked up in the basement. “I know how close you and Doc have become this year. I know how important she has become to you and I will understand if you want her to be here when we renew our vows sweetheart.” he said touching her face. “It is up to you.” “Oh, honey,” she began turning away from him so that he wouldn’t see the wrinkled look upon her face. “I think that Marlena would want us to continue with this ceremony. I know that she would want us to be happy.” “I guess that you’re right Kristen. She would want nothing but for us to be happy.” he said squeezing her in his arms. “You know, you always want to do what is best for everyone no matter what the circumstances and I love that about you. You are such a strong woman Kristen. I know that it is tearing you up inside that Doc is missing, yet you still go on making the best of things.” “I sure do. I am just trying to do what is best for everyone.” Susan said smiling as she looked into his deep blue eyes. “I love you so much John Black.” “I love you too dear.” he said kissing her forehead softly. “Now I think that it’s time for you and I to get a little shut eye considering tomorrow is our big day.” “I’m gonna to stay up for a little while if you don’t mind sweety.” Susan said as she thought about Stefano returning to her home. “Is everything alright?” he asked looking her over. “Everything is fine.” Susan said forcing a smile. “Now you get to bed before it’s too late. I don’t want the groom to fall asleep at his own wedding.” “Okay, see you later.” John said kissing her goodnight and walking upstairs. Susan sat on the couch thinking about the week’s events. Stefano had stopped by to see if he could pick up Marlena. She had managed to get rid of him before he found out the truth about her, but he promised that he would come back for the wedding. She realized that if he went into the wine cellar to take Marlena, then he would find Kristen as well, and it would be over for her. She closed her eyes hoping to find the answers about what to do.

 

Carrie Brady and Mike Horton sat in the hospital lobby outside of Laura Horton’s room. Laura had been a coma for about two weeks after being driven to the edge by Kristen DiMera and Kate Roberts. “Do you think that your mom is going to snap out of her coma soon?” Carrie asked looking Mike over. “I hope so.” he said sitting down in one of the chairs in the lobby. “There are so many things that I need to talk to her about. Also, Jen needs her more than ever now that Jack is in jail. All that we can do is pray that one day she will be her old self again. “If she is anything like you or Jenn, then she will be able to make it out of this.” Carrie added smiling and taking his hand. “What do you mean by that?” Mike asked looking into Carrie’s eyes. “Well, I think that you are just such a strong person Mike Horton. You are so full of life and courage.” she began explaining. “Courage?” he asked looking slightly puzzled. “Why do you say that?” “You save people’s lives everyday.” she continued. “That doesn’t take much Carrie.” he said modestly. “Anyone can be a doctor.” “Not anyone can be a great doctor though Mike. You are a wonderful doctor and I when I look at you I see that. You are so courageous and willing to help anyone out in their time of need.” she went on. “Carrie, I’m not as courageous as you think.” he said thinking about his feelings for her. “There are things that frighten me. Things that I am afraid of.” “Like what?” she asked looking into his blue eyes. “If only you knew.” he said smiling. He looked at Carrie sitting in the chair across from him with her blue floral print dress on. He realized that there was no point in fighting his feelings any longer. He was in love with Carrie Brady, and no matter how wrong he knew it was, he couldn’t stop being in love with her. “Is something wrong?” she asked noticing his faraway look. “No,” he said remembering how in love with Austin she was. “Not at all. What were you saying?” “I said that you always think the best about life.” she said taking his hand in hers. “I really am glad that I have you around in my life. I would be lost without you.” “You don’t know how much hearing that means to me Carrie.” Mike said squeezing her hand tighter. “I think I have a clue.” she said moving in closer to him. “You have been so caring and self-less lately listening to me whine about my problems with Austin and I really appreciate that.” “Hey,” he began clearing his throat, “that’s what friends are for.” “Friends,” Carrie repeated moving only inches from his face, “I think that what we have is much stronger than that.” Mike closed his eyes and sat speechless as he felt the warmth of Carrie’s closeness. “God, how I want to kiss her.” he thought to himself. “Mike I think that the two of us need to have a talk about the future.” Carrie said as she kissed Mike’s cheek. “Huh?” Mike said opening his eyes as he slipped back into reality. “I think that we need to talk about our future.” she said softly. “Our future?” he asked her with confusion in his voice. “Yep, you are my best  friend and you have helped me through so much.” she began smiling at him. “When this whole issue with Austin and I is resolved, we are going to find you a great woman because you deserve it.” “Right now you should focus on you and Austin.” he said feeling slightly disappointed to hear her talk about finding him another woman when all he wanted was her. “Well, I think that I need to figure out if fighting for Austin is really worth my time and…” she began. “Carrie, I thought that you were completely in love with Austin.” Mike stated. “I am,…well, I was.” Carrie began. “I am not sure anymore.” “What are you saying Carrie?” he asked looking at her. “I just don’t know if there is a chance for Austin and I anymore. Too much time may have passed.” she explained. “Carrie,” Mike said taking in a deep breath, “I know that this isn’t the right time, but there is so much that I want to tell you and I don’t know where to start.” “Try from the beginning.” she smiled. “That works the best for me.” “Here it goes,” he said taking in a deep breath, “I started thinking that…” Mike’s words were interrupted from strange beeping noised that were coming out of Laura’s room. He jumped up from his chair and ran into Laura’s room. He frantically ran into Laura’s room and played with some of the machines while Carrie watched him silently. She couldn’t see Mike’s face, so she had no idea of what was going on, but she feared that something was terribly wrong.

 

“You know Marlena.” Kristen said knocking on the bathroom door again. “This is getting kind of old with you hiding in there.” “Why do you care if I am in here or not Kristen.” Marlena yelled from out of the bathroom. “Normally I wouldn’t care Doc because the sight of your face makes me sick, but I need to get in there.” Kristen yelled as she kicked the door. “Let me in.” “Fine,” Marlena said walking out the door. “If you are going to carry on about it so much, then it is yours.” “Gee thanks Doc.” Kristen muttered sarcastically as she slammed the bathroom door. Marlena sat on the bed thinking about her life and how Stefano had destroyed everything that she had ever cared about. First he took Roman and he children away from her, he took her away from John, made John’s life miserable, and now she would be forced to be his prisoner when he came for her. She knew that she would never see John or her children again if Stefano came back. The thought of her children growing up without her was tearing her apart. She was trying to hold it together by playing it cool in front of Kristen, but she could feel the tears forming in her eyes. She had seen Stefano’s determination about taking her when he had stopped by earlier in the week. She wiped the tears from her eyes and hoped that Kristen wouldn’t come out of the bathroom anytime soon to find her falling apart. Marlena closed her eyes and silently pleaded with God to let her be freed from the hell that Stefano wanted to take her to. She started wiping the last of her tears away when she looked up at the monitor and saw John appear. He had entered her bedroom and was sitting on her bed holding a picture of her. He started talking to it. “Oh Doc,” he began as tears started forming in his eyes, “how could I have been so foolish to let you get away from me? After all that we have been through I never should have let you go. I should have held onto you when I had the chance and neither one of us would be where we are today. When Roman walked out on you, I should have fought for your love instead of fooling myself by trying to move on. I’m not saying that Kristen isn’t special, but she’s not you Doc. She could never be you.” “Oh John, I love you too.” Marlena said moving closer to the television screen. “I’m right here my love.” “I have this life now Doc and it is like a dream…” John continued as he stared deeper at the photo. “actually it’s like I am walking around in a nightmare and every minute I’m hoping to wake up and find you in my arms again. If only I could have told you that my feelings for you have never died, then we would be together and Stefano couldn’t have gotten his hands on you. I would be here protecting you forever.” “John it was Kristen not Stefano.” Marlena said tapping the monitor. “I am down in the wine cellar my love.” “If only I could have said that I loved you Doc. If only we could have had that chance to be together once again. If only I could be able to hold you, make love to you, share my life with you…” he trailed off. ” When Laura told me that you still had feelings for me, I couldn’t wait to get home and see if that was true. I wanted you to love me the way that I love you, so that I could have a reason to…what am I thinking? You don’t love me like that. You’re made it quite clear that you only think of me only as your friend. I am only fooling myself to believe that you could ever love me like that. Even if you don’t love me like I love you, I will find you Doc. You are my world and I can’t go on without you. I will save you. I swear to it.” he said kissing his finger and touching the photo with it. “Goodnight Doc. I hope that you are alright wherever you are. I love you.” “Oh, I love you too.” Marlena said touching the monitor trying to feel the warmth from his face. “What are you doing you up there fruitcake?” Kristen asked coming out of the bathroom. “None of you business.” Marlena said getting down from the monitor. Kristen looked up at the screen and saw John sitting on the bed. She noticed that he had just set something down and he laid down on the bed closing his eyes. “Get used to it Marlena.” Kristen laughed loudly. “That will be the closest that you’ll ever get to touching John again.”

 

“What is going on Mike?” Carrie asked as Mike rushed out of his mother’s room. “What’s happening to Laura?” “She is out of it.” Mike said smiling in disbelief. “I don’t know how it happened, but by some miracle, she came out of it.” “That’s great!” Carrie said throwing her arms around him. “I’m so happy for you.” “You would think that she was never in a coma because she is already making requests.” Mike said looking at Carrie. “What does she want?” Carrie asked enthusiastically. “Is she hungry? Thirsty?” “No. She wants to talk to you.” he said noticing her puzzled expression. “Me?” Carrie asked. “That’s what she said when she saw you standing out here.” Mike began. “I have no idea what she wants, but she was being pretty persistent.” “I’ll go see her then.” Carrie said as she rushed towards Laura’s door. “I’ll be right back. I’m going to call Jenn and tell her the good news.” Mike called out to her. “Hey Laura,” Carrie said smiling as she walked into the hospital room. “I am so glad that you are feeling better. We were all so worried about you.” “Carrie, I need your help.” Laura said with an urgency in her voice. “What’s wrong Laura?” Carrie asked. “Did John find Marlena?” she asked sitting up. “No, I’m afraid that Stefano has been able to escape somewhere with her, but John hasn’t given up the search.” Carrie explained. “Carrie, I know this is going to sound strange, but where Marlena is and I need your help rescuing her.” Laura explained. “I don’t understand Laura.” Carrie said puzzled. “Marlena was kidnapped by Stefano and not even John has a clue about where to find her.” “You have to believe me on this one Carrie. I know how we can save Marlena. She is in danger right now and I need your help getting her. Will you help me?” Laura asked her.

 

“What do you need my help with Laura?” Carrie asked her. “Before I tell you anything you have to promise me that you won’t think I’m crazy.” Laura insisted. “I don’t think that you are crazy Laura. You have just had some hard times right now.” Carrie said to her. “It’s not like that Carrie. People have been trying to hide the truth, and they came after me because I know it.” she said looking Carrie over. “You do believe me don’t you?” “Of course I do Laura.” Carrie said sensing Laura’s urgency. “Good, then I want you to know that Kristen is evil. She has done everything in her power to keep John and Marlena apart. She is the one that has taken Marlena away.” Laura informed her. “She is a terrible person.” “You don’t know that Laura.” Carrie told her. “You have been in that coma for so long that you might be starting to confuse things in reality…” “No!!” Laura shouted as she sat up straighter. “I know that Kristen is evil and I can prove it!! She hates Marlena because Marlena is in love with John. Kristen has done everything in her power to keep John and Marlena apart. There were so many things that Marlena had told me about Kristen that no one knows.” “She told me things too.” Carrie thought out loud. “See I told you that Kristen was evil. You must believe me then Carrie.” Laura grinned with excitement. “Also I know that Kristen wasn’t pregnant and that baby isn’t hers.” “That is a pretty big accusation Laura. How do you know that?” Carrie asked her. “Because I saw her adjusting a pregnancy pad on the day of Peter’s funeral. She has been deceiving John along with everyone else in Salem for over nine months. She is a true DiMera.” Laura explained. “Well, if that is true, then Kristen could have helped Stefano kidnap Marlena.” Carrie gasped thinking over what Laura just said. “That is what I have been trying to tell you.” Laura muttered. “So now what do we do?” Carrie asked her. “We tell John the truth.” Laura said smiling. “We tell him tonight.”

 

“What am I going to do?” Susan asked herself. “John is going to marry me again tomorrow and all of my dreams will come true, yet I’m not happy. That mean old vampire is going to take Dr. Marlena Evans away and I know that he will try to destroy my wedding when he sees that I am not Kristen. Then what will I do?” “Having problems up there?” Kristen asked Susan through the monitor. “That’s none of your beeswax Kristen.” Susan yelled at her. “The pressure getting to you Susan.” Kristen laughed. “You know that you aren’t going to be able to fool everyone into thinking that you are really me. Stefano is going to figure it out tomorrow and then he will take both you and Marlena far, far away.” “Shut up Kristen! That won’t happen!!!” Susan yelled. “John will protect me. He promised not to let Stefano near this house.” “Stefano has outsmarted John many times in the past, so what would make this any different Susan?” Kristen asked. “He will protect me. Besides if Stefano was so smart, then why couldn’t he tell that I wasn’t you when he came over last week?” Susan muttered shutting up Kristen momentarily. “Susan,” Marlena called out to her, “will you please let me out of here?” “I’m sorry Dr. Evans, but I can’t do that. If I let you out then it would be over for me and my Johnny angel. I can’t lose him.” Susan sighed. “Please don’t let Stefano take me away from my family again.” Marlena begged. “They all need me around.” “I’m sorry Dr. Evans,” Susan began, “but I can’t let you go.” .

 

Mike Horton came back to Laura’s room after calling Jennifer to tell her the good news. He was happy to know that Laura was going to be just fine. He decided that today was going to be a good day for him after all. He walked to Laura’s room with a smile on his face. He opened the door to Laura’s room and he stood there in shock. Laura and Carrie were both missing. He decided that he would call Austin to help him find Carrie. Sami answered the phone. “Sami, is Austin there?” Mike asked her. “No, he isn’t home right now.” Sami said. “Can I help you with something?” “Well, Carrie and my mother are missing.” he explained. “Could you have him call me when he gets in?” “Sure, Mike.” Sami said smiling. “If you need help looking for them, I know that Lucas is at the hospital doing something for Kate. I can page him and have him help you out.” “That would be great Sami. Thanks.” Mike said hanging up his coat and going to change out of his hospital clothes. “Lucas,” Sami said calling him. “What’s up Sami?” he asked her. “I thought that you were busy playing house with Austin.” “Funny.” she said smiling. “Look here is your chance to redeem yourself with Carrie. She is missing and Mike called from the hospital and he is looking for her. He called here asking for Austin’s help, but there is no chance in hell that I am going to let Austin go looking for Carrie.” “What if she is hurt?” Lucas asked worried. “Then you can rescue her.” Sami said hearing the toilet flush. “I have to go.” “But…” Lucas said realizing that she hung up the phone. He decided to go find Mike in the hospital. “Who just called Sami?” Austin asked coming out of the bathroom. “Just someone trying to sell us something.” she lied. “No big deal.”

 

“What should I do now about Stefano Dr. Evans?” Susan asked Marlena. “Please let me go and I won’t let him hurt you or your baby.” Marlena pleaded with her. “Now you know that I can’t do that Dr. Evans.” Susan said sadly into the monitor. “I explained this to you already. If I let you go, I could lose everything.” “Well, Susan, I promise you that if you let me go, then I will help you.” Marlena explained to her. “Don’t listen to her Susan!!” Kristen shouted above Marlena. “She only wants to have John to herself.” “Please let me out.” Marlena begged. “I can’t Dr. Evans. I just can’t lose John. He is my world.” Susan said smiling sadly. “I love him and I think that he is falling in love with me too. If I let you go, then he will not learn to love me. Don’t you understand?” “Susan, you can’t keep me away from my babies. They need me to watch them grow.” Marlena began explaining as Kristen groaned in the background. “You know what it feels like to have your baby taken away from you. Please don’t make me go through that pain too.” “I don’t know…” Susan began as she thought about what Marlena was saying.

 

“How could they sneak past security?” Mike asked himself as he approached the lower level of the hospital. “Mike, I got here as soon as I could.” Lucas said running into the him. “Sami was frantic when she called on the phone. What is going on?” “Well, Lucas, my mother and Carrie have disappeared and we need to find them.” Mike explained. “What do you mean disappeared? Your mom was in a coma wasn’t she?” Lucas asked him. “She just woke up and she wanted to talk to Carrie. I left the two of them alone for a while and when I came back, they were gone.” Mike informed him. “Being that mother wasn’t in a clear frame of mind when she went into the coma, I am worried about her mental state.” “Do you have any idea where Carrie and Laura could be?” Lucas asked him. “I don’t know why, but I get this feeling that they went to Kristen’ house to confront her again. My mother was pretty angry with Kristen before the coma, so I think that she may be there.” Mike said putting on a jacket. “I think that we had better start looking over there before something out of hand takes place again.” “Sure thing bro.” Lucas said following him out of the hospital door.

 

“Doc, how I have missed you.” John muttered to himself as he slept. He was having a dream about making love to Marlena when suddenly he heard a thud that brought him to his feet. “What is going on?” he asked slowly coming to and looking around the room. “Doc, where are you?” John realized that he was alone in his bedroom and that Doc was only a part of his dream. He realized that he would never have the chance to be with Marlena again and it made him feel empty inside. John was about to fall asleep again when he heard the doorbell ring. He decided to go downstairs and see who could be stopping by so late.

 

“Who could that be?” Susan asked herself as she tucked the monitor that she was using to talk to Kristen and Marlena with away in one of the desk drawers. “Don’t these people know that it is not very nice to show up at someone’s home after midnight? It is pouring rain out there and suddenly the whole world wakes up. I’m starting to wonder is everyone in Salem has a problem.” Susan opened the door to find two blonde women standing in front of her. “May I help you?” she asked in her best Kristen voice. “You bet you can Kristen.” the older one said pushing her way through the front door. “Where is John?” “What on earth do you want to talk to John about at this hour?” Susan said looking at the stranger. “I think you know what she wants to see him about Kristen.” the younger girl said in a yell. “I have no idea what you two are talking about.” Susan said starting to get scared. “What is going on down here?” John asked coming down the stairs. “Laura? Carrie? Why are you two here so late?” “I have to tell you something John.” Laura said pushing Susan out of the way. “Kristen is evil and I am going to prove it.”

 

“Laura, isn’t it a little late at night for you to come over here and throw accusations around at Kristen? I thought that you were in the hospital.” John asked as he moved in toward Susan. “John, you have to believe me that she is evil.” Laura pleaded with him. “Hear her out John.” Carrie insisted to him. “Pumpkin, what on earth are you two doing here?” John asked Carrie. “Surely you don’t believe that Kristen is evil.” “She is John.” Carrie stated backing off as she glared at Susan. “If only you knew all the evil that she has done to you and Marlena.” “What are they talking about Kristen?” John asked Susan as she pressed up against him. “I don’t know.” she said sobbing into his chest. “I don’t know why they are here to cause trouble.” “Laura, I think that you had better come up with something better than ‘Kristen is evil’ “. John said wrapping his arms around Susan. “This is getting ridiculous.” “Fine, you want something better John?” she asked him in a fury. “Then how about this? Kristen is not the mother of your child.” “What? That’s impossible.” John asked in disbelief. “That’s right.” Laura said smiling. “She has deceived you into believing that she was pregnant all of these months when in reality she lost your baby a long time ago.” “Do you have any proof of this Laura?” John asked her. “Well,…” Laura began. “No, I don’t have anything concrete, but…” “Laura, how can you just bust into our home and throw these ridiculous accusations at Kristen without any proof?” John asked her with irritation in his voice. “I have no doubt in my mind that this woman is the mother of my child. I was with her in the delivery room when our child was born.” “Then you were deceived into believing that someone else was her John. She was not pregnant.” Laura said. “That isn’t possible Laura.” John began as Susan started shaking. “How could she pull off something like that?” “She is Stefano’s daughter. She is capable of anything. You know that man is a master of disguise.” Laura begged. “It’s just so hard to even comprehend something like that.” John said thinking about what Laura was saying. “Ask her.” Laura insisted. “Well?” John asked looking at Susan who was sobbing frantically. “I am that baby’s mama.” she cried as John embraced her. “I will take care of this. Why don’t you go to bed?” John said hugging Susan. “John, I am telling you the truth.” Laura screamed at him. “I saw her adjusting a pregnancy pad at Peter’s funeral before I found out that Peter was alive. After I found that out Kristen, Stefano, and Peter had laser surgery done on me so that I wouldn’t remember anything, but I do.” “Laura, do you have any idea how disturbed you sound right now?” John asked her. “I’m not disturbed.” she said growing more furious by the moment. “She is telling the truth John.” Carrie said speaking up for Laura. “Sweety,” John said removing his arm from Susan and touching Carrie’s shoulder, “how could you be buying into this?” “I know that Kristen is evil John.” Carrie insisted as she grabbed his hand and squeezed it. “Marlena knew it too, and that is why she is missing right now.” “What on earth are you talking about pumpkin?” John asked Carrie. “Marlena confided in me a long time ago that Kristen was evil and would stop at nothing to keep the two of you apart.” Carrie explained to him. “Marlena told me that Kristen had found the letter that you had written Marlena when you thought that you were going to die in Aremid. She knew that you loved Marlena and she would stop at nothing to keep the two of you apart.” “I can’t believe that I am hearing this.” John said in shock. “Doc, knew about my letter? I don’t understand how she…” “Yes John, she saw the letter.” Carrie said to him smiling. “She knew your feelings and she loves you too.” “She does?” he asked astonished by what he was hearing. “Yes, she does.” Laura added. “With all of her heart.” “Why didn’t she say anything?” John asked them. “Because that witch over there manipulated her into keeping her mouth shut.” Laura screamed. “That’s a lie.” Susan shouted back at her. “John, you can’t believe that I would do those things because I am a good person. I would never be so evil.” “I know that honey.” John said moving towards Susan. “I know that you love Doc and you want her to be here right now. There has to be some logical explanation for all of this.” “What is wrong with you John?” Laura asked him. “Why are you acting like a fool? She is lying to you!!!” “I think that we have had enough of this for tonight Laura.” John said as Susan started crying again. “Why don’t we finish this discussion in the morning when all of us are thinking rationally?” “Didn’t you hear a word that I have just told you?” Laura asked desperately. “I just told you that Marlena, the love of your life, the mother of your children, is in love with you still and you just want to put this off until tomorrow. I can’t believe that I am hearing this Are you that blind?” “I have to believe Kristen. She is my wife.” John said looking at Susan’s tear streaked face. “I think that this has gone on long enough.” “It’s just the beginning John.” Laura informed him. “Sweetheart,” John said turning to Susan, “why don’t you go upstairs to check on John Jr. and I will finish up with these two. All right?” “Okay,” Susan sniffled as she walked toward the stairs. “I don’t believe this.” Laura yelled at John. “Why aren’t you listening to me?” “Laura, I think that it would be best if you left now.” John said closing his eyes. “Carrie, would you please take Laura home?” “John, why won’t you just hear her out?” Carrie pleaded. “I think that we are finished for the night.” John said walking over to the front door. “Good night ladies.” “John, you can’t be serious.” Carrie said to him. “Fine, you are a fool John Black.” Laura said walking towards the front door. “I guess that I was wrong about you.” “What is that supposed to mean?” John asked her. “I just thought that you were a good, honest man, but now all I see is a fool with a closed mind.” she said laughing sarcastically. “Kristen is my wife. I have to believe what she is saying is the truth.” John explained to her. “Believe me, I would love to believe that what you are saying about Doc is true, but we all know better.” “Well, then I guess that you aren’t the person that I thought you were. Quite honestly,” Laura said as John opened the front door. “I don’t see what it is that Marlena sees in you!”

 

“What is going on upstairs?” Kristen asked as she started banging upon the blank monitor screen. “What did that Susan do to this thing?” “I don’t know Kristen what happened, but banging on the monitor obviously won’t make it work again.” Marlena informed her. “It sounded like it was storming outside, so I am going to guess that the monitor going blank is just one of the effects on the electrical system.” “Well thank you Miss Know-it-all, but it shouldn’t be doing this. Stefano spent allot of money to make sure that this system was foolproof.” Kristen insisted. “Obviously not enough money.” Marlena snickered. “Shut up Marlena.” Kristen said hitting the monitor again. “I want to see what that nitwit is doing now.” “Maybe she has had a change of heart and is coming down here to rescue me…” Marlena began. “Not likely, so why don’t you put a sock in it Marlena? She wants John for herself and there is no chance in hell that you are going to get out of here any time in the near future. That is, unless Stefano decides to get you out of here soon.” Kristen beamed. “Soon you will be out of my life forever and you will be a distant, fading memory to John.” “Never.” Marlena said sternly. “John will never give up on me.” “If you want to believe that Marlena, then go ahead.” Kristen said moving towards her. “I promise you that Stefano will take you so far away from here that you will never see John again. I’ll show him who his true love really is. ME!!!” “Kristen you are so delusional, aren’t you?” Marlena laughed looking her over. “You really have it stuck in your sick twisted little mind that John is going to love you after he finds out about all of the horrible things that you have done. Please Kristen, where has your common sense gone?” “He won’t ever find out what I’ve done Doc.” Kristen laughed hysterically. “Just think about what a cute couple you and Stefano will make. I’m sure that he will treat you like a queen Doc.” “It will never happen.” Marlena yelled at her. “John will find me and you and your sick father will pay severely for the wrong that you have done.” “I don’t think so Marlena. It won’t happen. Stefano is going to take you far, far away.” Kristen teased. “Shut up Kristen.” Marlena yelled covering up her ears.

 

“How dare you say such a thing?” John asked as he pulled Laura back into the house. “I love Doc with all of my heat and I would stop at nothing to bring her home where she belongs.” “Really? You would stop at nothing?” Laura laughed to herself. “That’s right Laura. Doc is my world.” John said with trying not to reveal his true feelings for Marlena. “I would give my life for her.” “If that were true, then here’s a good question, why are you with Kristen?” Laura began clenching her fists. “Better yet, if you really cared about Marlena, then you would listen to what I am telling you about Kristen.” “Doc and Kristen are friends Laura.” John answered her as he thought about what she had just said. “They have become so close lately…” “It’s all been an act John.” Carrie said to him. “Marlena is in love with you and Kristen will stop at nothing to keep that from you. Think about it John. You’re past with Marlena speaks for itself.” “But…” John began as he let Laura and Carrie’s words sink in. “Ha, ask her if she knows about Marlena’s feelings for you. Ask her if she knows everything John.” Laura pleaded. “Please.” Carrie insisted as she watched Susan standing on the stairs. “John, you have to trust Laura.” “Carrie…I,” John began feeling confused. “John, I know how much you care about Marlena. You are like a father to me, and you know that I would only want the best for you and Marlena. I wouldn’t have come here tonight if I didn’t believe in what Laura is saying.” Carrie explained. “All right pumpkin.” John reluctantly agreed as he turned towards a shaking Susan. “Kristen, did you know that Marlena was in love with me?” “Well, I…I…” Susan trailed off as Mike and Lucas ran into the house. “Mom? Carrie? John?” Mike asked running into the house and noticing the tension in the room. “Is everything alright?” “What’s going on here??” Lucas asked as he entered the house. “We were just about to find out the truth about Kristen.” Carrie explained to him. “We all are about to see Kristen’s true nature.” “That’s right Mike. John was about to show us all that he isn’t truly the asshole that he was acting like earlier.” Laura announced. “Mother, are you okay?” Mike asked stunned by her statement. “I’m fine dear.” She smiled looking at John. “Never better.” “Let me give you something to calm you down.” Mike said reaching for his medical bag. “No!!!” Laura shouted to him. “I need to be alert for this. I won’t let myself be the victim of another Dimera deception. Please…” “Mom, you can’t just go barging into someone’s home this late at night throwing around vicious accusations at…” Mike began explaining to her. “Mike,” John interrupted. “Let her be.” “What?” Mike asked confused. “Your mother has raised some important issues tonight.” John explained. “I think that I ought to hear her out.” “Thanks John.” Laura smiled sitting down on the couch. “Okay. Whatever you say John.” Mike said taking note of the anger in John’s voice and backing off. “Now, Kristen will you answer my question?” John asked Susan. “Did you know that Marlena had feelings for me?” “John, I really don’t want to talk about this right now.” she said to him. “Well, Kristen, now is better than ever.” John urged her. “That way we can put these ugly rumors to rest.” “Well, I guess that…” she trailed off taking in a deep breath. “Kristen,” John said raising his voice slightly. “tell me the truth. You know how I value honesty and openness.” “John, I wanted to tell you earlier that I…” she hesitated. “You what?” John asked growing more impatient. “Please Kristen just spit it out.” “Yes!!!” Susan confessed. “I know all about it.” “What?” John asked astonished by her statement. “I know that Dr. Marlena Evans is in love with you John. She told me that herself.” Susan blurted out. “Ha! I told you.” Laura beamed as she watched Susan crumble. “Why don’t you ask her if she knows where Marlena is at? Ask her where her daddy put Marlena.” “Hush!” John insisted as he grabbed Susan. “Is what Laura said earlier the truth?” “John I can explain everything.” she cried to him. “Woman, I’m tired of your explanations. Do you know where Marlena is at?” “Well,…I…” Susan cried softly. “Don’t lie to me.” John told her. “I can’t stand being deceived. If you know something you better spit it out” “I….” she trailed off again. “Well,” John began. “I…” Susan said in her own voice. “I know where she is.” “What?” John asked confused with what he heard. “I know where Dr. Marlena Evans is.” Susan began talking in her southern accent. “I can’t lie to you John. I love you too much. I know where she is.” “What the hell is going on here?” John asked noticing the change in Kristen’s voice. “Who are you?” “It’s me Susan.” she said pulling out her false teeth. “I’m your wife.” “What?” he asked astonished as he turned toward Laura. “Did you know anything about this?” “I have no idea what is going on here.” Laura replied looking almost as stunned as John. She turned to look at Susan. “Who are you?” “I’m Susan Banks.” she said smiling weakly. “You’re John Jr.’s baby nurse.” Carrie said out loud as she backed into Mike. “Where is Doc and Kristen?” John asked grabbing Susan. “What have you done with them?” “I can explain everything John. Just give me a chance!!!” Susan cried. “I love you and I want to make you happy.” “Did Stefano send you here?” he asked her. “Yeah,” she sobbed falling to the floor. “He paid me money to give you and that mean, old Kristen my little Elvis.” “What?” John asked. “He paid me to give up my baby to you and Kristen when he was born ’cause Kristen had lost her baby. She knew that if you found out that there was no baby, then you would leave her for Dr. Marlena Evans. I didn’t believe that would be true when I met you though because you are the nicest man I have ever met in my whole life. When I saw what a stud you were, I could see why Kristen was fighting so hard to keep you. I’m a good person John…”she sobbed loudly. “I want you to know that. You have to believe me.” “Susan,” John began as he sat down at her side. “I realize that we have a lot of talking to do about everything. I want to hear what you have to tell me, but first I think that you should help me find Doc and Kristen.” “I know why you would love Dr. Evans. She is such a nice person John. She is my only friend and I treated her so bad. I wouldn’t let mean old Stefano take her away though because she has been so good to me. She wanted to help me get Elvis back and I…” Susan trailed off. “Susan, I know that you care about Doc, but right now we need to find her.” John interrupted her. “Can you help me do that?” “Yes,” she said looking at John. “She is in the dungeon in the basement. The vampires put her there.” “What in the world is she talking about?” Lucas asked realizing that the woman dressed as Kristen was more messed up in the head than Sami was. “I have no idea.” Laura whispered as she watched the interaction between John and Susan. “Will you take me to her?” John asked holding out his hand to Susan. “I will take you there, but I want to warn you that mean, old Kristen is there. She wants to hurt Dr. Evans. You can’t let her do that.” Susan said taking his hand. “I promise that I won’t let anyone hurt Doc.” John said following Susan’s lead. “It’s kind of hard to get to them John. What if the vampires are down there?” Susan asked frightened. “I don’t think that there will be any vampires in the basement Susan.” John said trying to calm her down. “Mike and Lucas, can you two give us a hand down there?” “Sure,” Mike said as he and Lucas followed. “It’s over.” Carrie sighed. “Now John will find out everything about Kristen. Marlena can finally be happy.” “I don’t know Carrie.” Laura said as the men disappeared. “If I know Kristen, then she is going to try to get in the way of John and Marlena’s happiness.” “I hope that Marlena can convince John of the truth.” Carrie muttered.

 

“What in the world could be going on up there?” Kristen asked Marlena. “Why won’t this damn thing work?” “I don’t know Kristen.” Marlena answered her. “You were the one that had this ridiculous system installed into this room.” “Shut up Marlena!!!” Kristen yelled as she started beating on the monitor again. “I am getting sick of being in this room and I am getting sick of your smart remarks.” “Well, quite honestly Kristen I’m getting sick of you. The sooner that John finds me, then the sooner you will be out of my life.” Marlena said walking to the far side of the room. “Soon this whole charade will be just an unpleasant memory.” “You know Marlena, I am getting sick of your self righteous attitude. You aren’t the saint that you would like everyone to believe you are.” “I never claimed to be one Kristen, but I don’t hurt people like you and your father do.” Marlena remarked. “Really?” Kristen laughed out loud. “I can remember not to long ago you destroyed the lives of many people.” “What in the world are you talking about?” Marlena asked her. “Gee Doc, do the names Roman and Sami ring a bell in your head?” Kristen asked her. “Kristen how dare you compare that to what you have done.” Marlena said feeling her anger take control of her. “Oh Doc come on, you mean to tell me that destroying that man’s life and driving him from his family just because you and John couldn’t keep your hands off one another wasn’t evil?” Kristen remarked. “If that wasn’t evil, then I don’t know what is.” “Why you.” Marlena said tightening her fists and punching Kristen in the face. “How dare you?” “You know Doc.” Kristen laughed wiping the blood from her mouth. “Don’t you realize that you’re the reason that Roman is dead?” “Kristen, you have no idea what you are talking about.” Marlena said growing furious. “Do you think that John can ever be with you knowing that the two of you contributed to Roman’s murder?” Kristen laughed louder. “You’re only doing this because you know that John and I have a love that cannot be destroyed.” Marlena said cracking a grin. “That is what really bothers you. You know that you are second best to me.” “You know Doc,” Kristen began walking closer to Marlena. “I think that it is about time for me to shut you up for good.”

 

“Where do we go from here?” John asked as Susan led the way. “Right here John.” Susan said pointing to the wine bottles. “When you pull out one of those here bottles, the big old door just swings right open.” “Which bottle is it?” John asked her. “See that here is the problem,” Susan began explaining softly, “I don’t remember which one opens it up ’cause it’s been such a long time since I have opened it.” “Why in the world would John have hired that looney to watch his child?” Lucas whispered to Mike. “I have no idea.” Mike replied as he looked Susan over. “It confuses the hell out of me.” “Hey John,” Lucas called to him, “just out of personal curiosity, when did you start putting secret rooms in your basement?” “I have no idea how this got here Lucas.” John said unamused by Lucas’ comment as he played with a few of the wine bottles. “Kristen put it here.” Susan replied. “She was going to lock me up in here so that I could never see my Elvis again.” “I think that she needs psychiatric help.” Lucas whispered to Mike. “I already have a psychiatrist.” Susan said hearing Lucas. “Dr. Marlena Evans.” “Oh,” Lucas said turning red with embarrassment that she heard his comment. “I’m sorry.” “That’s okay. I don’t mind you knowing.” she said smiling and carrying on. “Everyone should see Dr. Evans. She’s so good.” “I think I found the opening.” John said pulling one of the bottles out. In the empty place where the bottle used to be he saw Marlena and Kristen through a glass window. “I see them!!! Doc!! Kristen!”

 

“What is this?” John said peering through the window. “Doc, can you hear me?” “She won’t be able to hear you John.” Susan explained sitting on the floor. “The glass is soundproof. See you can yell and yell your little head off, but nothing is going through there. I think that the vampires got that stuff from Superman’s planet or something.” “Now what do we do?” Lucas asked joining John at the glass window. “There is a voice thingie so that you can talk to them if you want to. ” Susan suggested. “Although it is much more fun to watch them argue. They are quite entertaining.” “Okay,” John said watching Marlena and Kristen. “Mike, I will try to talk to them while you and Lucas continue to search the rest of the wall for the entrance. Tear it all down if you have to” “Sure thing John.” Mike said as he and Lucas started pulling wine bottles out of the wall. John watched Kristen and Marlena as Susan removed the bottle revealing the speaker. He sensed that there was tension between the two women. Marlena was in the far corner of the room and it appeared that Kristen was going to jump her. John pressed the button to talk to them, but instead he was shocked to hear what was going on inside.

 

“Doc, I am going to make you pay for all the pain you have caused me.” Kristen yelled. “Just what do you think that you are going to do to me Kristen?” Marlena asked her. “I am going to make sure that you never get between John and I again.” Kristen said lunging at her. “I was going to wait for Stefano to come and take you out of here, but he keeps taking too damn long.” “Kristen, no matter what you do to me, John will always love me. You do realize that, don’t you?” Marlena informed her. “Give it up Doc!! He may love you now, but soon when you are far, far away he will forget about you. He will learn to love me. Belle and Brady will call me mommy.” Kristen laughed. “We will be one big happy family without you.” “Never! You won’t get near my family.” Marlena screamed. “When John finds out that baby isn’t his son, he will leave you. John is a smart man. He will figure it out soon.” “Who is going to tell him that I miscarried and took Susan’s baby?” Kristen laughed harder. “You? Ha, what a joke Marlena. You’ll be long gone.” “He will always love me and he will never give up on me.” Marlena said to her. “Look, John is going to marry me tomorrow because I am sweet and nice. He knows that I am a good person. He will never know of all that I have done in the name of love.” Kristen laughed. “He will know the truth Kristen.” Marlena yelled. “You don’t know the meaning of true love.” “I don’t think so. Speaking of true love Marlena, I’m going to do the honor of reuniting you with your true love for good.” “You’ve gone mad.” Marlena insisted noticing the look in Kristen’s eyes. “Doc, I am going to see to it that you will spend the rest of eternity with your true love: Roman.” Kristen said pulling a knife out from behind her back. “I ‘m going see to it that you are shut up forever.” “You can’t do this.” Marlena said moving backward. “Sure I can Doc.” Kristen laughed hysterically. “I’ll just say that being locked in here drove you crazy, so you stabbed yourself.” “No one would believe that Kristen.” Marlena screamed at her. “You’re right Doc.” Kristen said waving the knife in the air. “I guess that I’ll just have to say that you were possessed again, and I was just protecting myself.” “No,” Marlena said backing away from Kristen. “Doc, don’t worry it won’t be that bad. In fact, tell Roman I said hello when you get to hell.” Kristen said pouncing at her.

 

“What the hell is going on in there?” Lucas asked John. “Has Kristen lost her mind?” “What is she doing?” Mike asked in disbelief. “It looks like she has a knife.” John said stunned. “We have to find the opening and save Doc.” Lucas and Mike frantically searched the wall and finally Mike found the correct bottle. He yanked it out of the wall causing the door to fly open just as Kristen threw herself on top of Marlena. “Say goodbye Doc!” Kristen laughed as she lunged the knife down at Marlena. “No!!!” John screamed grabbing Kristen. “What in the world do you think you’re doing?” “John, you found us!!!” Kristen cried dropping the knife and throwing her arms around him. “Thank God we’re saved.” “Are you alright Marlena?” Mike asked rushing to her side. “You’re bleeding, aren’t you?” “I think so.” Marlena said holding her arm tightly as Mike ripped up one of the bed sheets and wrapped it. Even though her arm hurt her, she watched John and Kristen talking. “For a minute, I thought that it was over.” “Sweety,” Kristen said turning to kiss John. “I thought that you weren’t ever going to find us. Doc and I had almost given up hope in here. Susan locked us up in here because she works for Stefano. I found out all about her, but by the time I knew it all, it was too late because she locked me in here…” “Save it Kristen.” John said throwing her arms off him. “I know everything.” “What are you talking about sweetheart?” she asked smiling. “I know that you lost our baby and that you’re the one that brought Marlena down here for Stefano.” he said with his voice raising. “That’s a lie John. Susan was the one that locked us down here. She works for Stefano. I’m so glad that we finally know the truth about her.” Kristen pleaded with him. “I love our baby and you. You know that I would never deceive you. That boy is ours and whoever told you differently was lying.” “Kristen,” John began with tears in his eyes,” I heard the words from your mouth.” “What are you talking about?” she asked pretending not to know. “I saw everything. Don’t try lying to me.” John said to her. “I saw you attack Marlena.” “No!!!!!” Kristen said sobbing. “I love you John. I would never hurt you or Marlena. You should know me better than that. You both mean so much to me.” “I saw you Kristen.” he repeated glancing at Marlena. “You must’ve misunderstood what you saw. I can explain.” she pleaded to him. “Woman, you’ve put me through hell with your lies.” John said watching Marlena shake. “If you loved me, then you wouldn’t have hurt the people that love me.” “John, you have it all wrong.” Kristen explained. “Stefano was behind everything. I’m just an innocent victim like you.” “Kristen, don’t lie.” John said angrily. “I’m not lying John. I love you and I would do anything to keep you by my side.” She explained. “Including taking Doc away from everything that she loves.” he added coldly. “It wasn’t like that John.” she gasped. “I was just trying to keep our family together.” “What family Kristen? That boy isn’t even ours!!” John yelled at her. “John I….I only did it so that you wouldn’t leave me for Marlena. She doesn’t love you like I do John.” Kristen explained. “I did it for you. I did it for love.” “You truly are Stefano’s child, aren’t you?” he asked as he watched Kristen fall to the floor sobbing. “You don’t know the first thing about love.” “No!!! John, you have to understand.” Kristen cried reaching out to him. “Marlena, are you going to be okay?” Mike asked noticing that she couldn’t take her eyes off of John and Kristen. “She’s trying to lie her way out of this one Mike.” Marlena insisted. “John, isn’t buying it.” Mike said seeing John push Kristen away. “Do you want us to take care of her?” Lucas asked pointing to Kristen. “When she pulls herself together, then get her out of here.” John said walking towards a sobbing Marlena. “Doc,” “Oh John,” she said as he reached down to embrace her tightly. “Baby, it is over now.” he said as he held her close. “The nightmare is over.” “I was so frightened…” she began. “I thought that I would never see you or the kids again.” “I know honey, but don’t think about that now. The nightmare is over.” he said picking her up. “I am taking you out of here.”

 

“I wonder what is taking them so long down there.” Carrie said to Laura. “I have no idea what they could have found in that basement.” Laura said shaking at the thought of her friend being locked up in a room with Kristen. She looked towards the stairs and saw John carrying Marlena in his arms. “Is she alright John?” “I think that she is a little shaken right now.” John said holding her tighter. “What happened to her John?” Carrie asked noticing that Marlena had a bandage wrapped around her arm. “Kristen just tried attacking her.” he explained as he set her down on the couch. “That bitch!!!” Laura exclaimed. “I knew that I was right about her.” Just as Laura said that, Lucas and Mike dragged a sobbing Kristen up the stairs. She was yelling and trying to break loose from the two men. “Look at you.” Laura laughed at Kristen. “You look like an animal right now.” “Laura, I should have let Stefano take you away when I had the chance.” Kristen screamed as she tried to wiggle herself free. “How dare you.” Laura said slapping Kristen in the face. “Mom, she’s not worth it.” Mike said pulling Kristen away from Laura. “You know evil never wins Kristen.” Carrie informed her as she looked at Marlena and John. “Doc, honey, talk to me.” John said noticing that Marlena’s face was expressionless. “Say something. I need you to say something.” “John,” she whispered faintly. “Yes Doc?” he asked smiling. “Is it really over?” she asked him. “It’s over.” he said hugging her. “I’m going to see to it that the Dimera’s never hurt you again. I will personally see to it that Kristen makes it to jail.” “John, don’t leave me. We’ve been apart for too long already.” Marlena whispered to John. “I won’t ever leave you again Doc.” he said kissing her forehead. “How’s she doing John?” Mike asked from across the room. “Doc,” John said looking into her eyes. “I want Mike to check you out. Susan just called Abe and they’re going to take Kristen away for a long time. I’m going to go talk to her for a second Doc.” “Please don’t go away for long.” she said smiling weakly. “I won’t.” he said getting up to face Kristen. “John, please hear me out.” Kristen begged him. “I love you.” “Save it Kristen.” he said to her. “You lied to me. You have kept me from everything that I have ever cared about. When I saw you attack Marlena tonight, I saw a side to you that I could never love. You were so cold and it made me sick to ever think that I could love someone like that.” “Don’t say that John.” she cried. “I’m still the sweet girl that you fell in love with. I just couldn’t bear the thought of losing you to Marlena.” “Well, you need to know something.” he said moving closer to her. “You lost me because you your actions.” “John,” she cried as he walked away. The doorbell rang and John opened the door. Abe and two other officers were standing outside in the rain. “We came as soon as we could Buddy.” Abe began. “What is going on?” “I’ll let someone else do the explaining.” John said turning to Laura. “Why don’t you fill Abe in on what has happened tonight? I think that you are better qualified to explain things since I spent half of my night acting like a jack-ass. I’m going to check on Marlena.” “Jack-ass?” Abe questioned. “Long story Abe.” John said smiling at Laura. “Sorry if I quoted you wrong Laura.” “That’s good enough,” Laura said forcing a smile. “Oh, Abe.” John said turning around once again. “Cuff Kristen before she does anything more to hurt someone.” “You got it partner.” Abe said ordering one of the other officers to do it. “I’m back Doc.” John said sitting down on the couch at her side. “How is she Mike?” “She should be fine. The cut isn’t too deep. There are a few bruises and quite a scar, but she will be alright.” he said smiling as he walked away. “I’ll give you two a moment alone.” “Thank you Mike.” she said to Mike without taking her eyes off John. “You found me.” “Did you ever doubt that I would?” he asked her. “I was afraid that Stefano would get to me before you would.” she explained. “I would never let that monster take you away from me again.” he said touching her face. “I’m so glad that you are here.” “I was afraid that I would never see you or the children again.” she cried softly. “I wouldn’t let you go away Doc. I’m just sorry that I didn’t find you sooner.” he said with tears in his eyes. “It’s alright.” she said touching his face. “All that matters is that we are together now.” “Doc,” he began moving closer to her, “there is so much that we have to talk about.” “I know.” she said tracing his lips with her index finger. “I don’t know where to begin.” “Me neither.” he said looking into her eyes. “You know all that I could think about while you were gone is how much the kids need you…how much I need you.”

 

Kristen watched John and Marlena touching each other on the couch and she felt a fury building up inside her. The young police office approached her and tried to handcuff her. She decided that if she was going to have her revenge, then she had better do it then. She kicked the officer and grabbed the gun. “Now what is she going to do?” Kristen thought to herself as she aimed the gun at an unsuspecting Marlena.

 

“Doc,” John began as he moved in closer to her. “I think that I should start by telling you something very important that I have been putting off saying for a long time.”

 

“Yes,” she said looking deep into his eyes. “I…I…gosh this is hard.” he cleared his throat. “John, what is it?” she asked him. “I…I…I lo…” “Look out.” Carrie screamed as the gun boomed.

 

“No!!!” Laura shouted watching John, Marlena, and Carrie fall to the ground. “I’ll kill you with my bare hands Kristen.” “Oh God.” Kristen said seeing what she had done. She realized that she had caused more damage than intended. “No!!” Lucas and Mike screamed. “Cuff her.” Abe said as the other officers seized the gun from Kristen. John looked up and saw blood all over his shirt. “No,” he began grabbing Marlena. “Doc are you alright?” “John,” she asked as he wiped to blood away from her face. “What is going on?” “Kristen shot at you,” he explained as he sat up. “Are you hurt?” “This isn’t my blood.” she said noticing his concern. “If she didn’t shoot you, then who’s bleeding?” John asked her as they both looked over to find Carrie lying face down on the ground. “No,” Marlena cried rushing over to Carrie, “sweety-girl are you alright?” “Oh God,” John said turning Carrie over, “pumpkin it’s daddy, are you okay?” “She isn’t breathing John.” Marlena cried to him. “Oh God she isn’t breathing.” “Let me see her.” Mike insisted rushing to Carrie’s side. “Please help her Mike.” Marlena screamed. “Please don’t let my baby die.” “I won’t let it happen Marlena..” Mike said looking over at Lucas. “Call EMS. We need to get her to the hospital for emergency surgery.” “Please God, don’t let my baby die.” Marlena cried as she crumbled to the floor. “John,” Mike said turning to John, “can you please move Marlena so that I can work on Carrie?” “Sure thing partner.” John said picking up Marlena. “No John, I want to be with my baby.” Marlena cried hitting his chest. “Let me be with her.” “Mike is doing his best.” John said pressing her tighter against him. “How could you let that woman do this?” she asked punching him harder. “Why did you bring her into our lives?” “It’s over Doc.” he said feeling guilty. “I won’t let her hurt you again.” “She hurt my little girl and there is nothing that I can do about it.” Marlena said. “Doc, she won’t get away with this.” he said as her body went limp. “I won’t let you die Carrie.” Mike said trying to get her to breathe again. “I can’t lose you now.”

 

“I didn’t mean to hurt Carrie.” Kristen sobbed as she watched Mike trying to revive Carrie. “This is all Marlena’s fault.” “Why don’t you just shut up Kristen? I swear that you’ll be sorry if you open your mouth once more.” Laura screamed. “Abe would you please get her out of here?” John asked as he hugged Marlena. “I think that she has done enough to hurt us tonight.” “I’m sorry John.” Kristen cried as the police carried her away. “That bullet was meant for Marlena, not Carrie. I’m so sorry, I would never have hurt her on purpose. This is your fault Marlena!! If Carrie dies, you will have to live with the guilt.” “Shut up Kristen.” John yelled at her. “Just think Doc, you have hurt everyone that you are close to just so that you could be with John. Was it worth it?” Kristen said as the officers gripped onto her tighter. “It’s all your fault Marlena.” “Oh God,” Marlena said looking up as the ambulance arrived. “She’s right John. If Carrie dies it will be all my fault. That bullet was meant for me and Carrie got in the way.” “Don’t talk like that Doc.” John said holding her tighter. “The only person to blame is Kristen and we don’t need to worry about that right now. All we need to think about is getting Carrie to the hospital.” “I’m sorry that I snapped you.” Marlena said staring off blankly. “I’m the one at fault for what’s happened here with Kristen. I do have a way of hurting everyone that I love. First Sami and Roman, now you and Carrie. When will it stop?” “Stop that talk Doc. The Dimera’s are to blame for this.” he said trying to get her to snap out of her depression. “I’m so sorry that I yelled at you. I’m hurting you all so much.” she cried harder. “Doc, look at me!!” he said forcing her to look in his eyes. “We will get through this. We have to be strong for Carrie.” “You’re right.” Marlena said slowly pulling herself together. “Come on Doc,” John said taking her arm. “Let’s ride in the ambulance with our baby.”

 

“Austin,” Sami called out to him, “I was thinking lately.” “About what Sami?” Austin asked walking out of the bedroom. “About Will.” she informed him. “He hasn’t gone on a family vacation ever since I can remember and I think that we should take him on one.” “I don’t think that is a good idea right now Sami.” Austin informed her. “I’m really busy with work and everything.” “I think that it would be a good idea.” she continued. “Besides I talked to your mother and she agreed to let you have the time off.” “Sami, I don’t know if that is really what you need right now considering that you can’t walk.” Austin said trying to get Sami to change her mind. “Austin,” Sami said smiling at him, “I think that this trip may be all that I need to get my memory back. Please? I feel like I am getting stronger everyday.” “Well,” Austin said thinking about it. “Do you really think that you might be able to regain your memory?” “I have a strong feeling that I might.” she informed him. “Well, then,” Austin answered smiling, “when do we leave?” “Your mom said that the Titan jet could be ready in about a half an hour.” she said smiling at him. “You had better start packing.” “Okay,” he said going back into the bedroom. “I guarantee that you are going to fall in love with me on this trip Austin. Soon you will have no memory of Carrie.” Sami said smiling to herself.

“Have you heard anything yet John?” Lucas asked running into the hospital. “Nothing yet.” John said looking at Marlena across the room. “How is Marlena holding up?” Lucas asked him. “Not good.” John said with a worried expression on his face. “Laura was talking to her earlier and she still is taking this really hard.” “Is there anything that I can do to help?” Lucas asked John. “Actually,” John said putting his hand on Lucas’ shoulder, “if you could call Sami and Austin, Marlena and I would really appreciate it.” “No problem John.” Lucas said taking out his cell phone. John walked over to Marlena and put his arms around her. “She is going to be alright baby.” John said kissing her hand. “I promise you that.” “How can you be so sure?” Marlena said turning around to face him. “Marlena, our family is strong. We have been through so many things in the past and one thing that I know for sure is that we are fighters.” John began telling her. “Do you remember a few months ago when we were here because Sami was hurt?” “Yes,” she said with tears falling down her face. “She made it out okay.” John said kissing her forehead. “She was a fighter and so is Carrie. Carrie has so many things to live for Doc.” “I know, but I am worried that maybe she will forget about all of the people that love her.” Marlena said to him. “Austin has been with Sami for so long, what if Carrie has given up on the hopes of him being a part of her life? I know what it is like to be on the verge of giving up.” “Carrie could never give up on Austin. They love each other too much.” John informed her. “Besides while you were gone, Carrie and Mike have been getting closer. She cares about him and I know that he cares about her too much to let her die.” “What?” Marlena asked him. “I’ll tell you about it later.” John said dismissing the conversation. “Besides I had Lucas call Austin and tell him to come here to be with Carrie.” “Good thinking.” Marlena said as she turned to watch Mike operating on Carrie.

 

“I can’t believe that I am going to have Austin all to myself.” Sami thought to herself. “I’m going to make this weekend one of the best ever.” Sami was gloating about her plans for the weekend with Austin when the telephone rang. “Can you get that?” Austin asked through the bathroom door. “No problem.” Sami said picking up the phone. “Hello.” “Sami, it’s Lucas. We need to talk.” he informed her. “Something major has taken place tonight.” “I know Lucas.” Sami said smiling. “Guess what!! Austin, Will, and I are going away on a trip and we are leaving tonight. Isn’t that great?” “Sami, you aren’t listening to me.” he told her. “We have a problem.” “Did you help Mike find Carrie?” Sami asked him. “Yes, but…” Lucas began. “Then that is all that I need to know. I have to let you go.” Sami said putting the phone receiver down. “Wait…” Lucas began as he heard a dial tone. “Nothing is going to ruin my weekend with Austin.” she said taking the phone off of the hook. “Who was that?” Austin asked her as he pulled his bags into the living room. “Lucas,” she said to him, “He just wanted to tell me how he ran into Mike and Carrie tonight and they seemed to be pretty close. I’m so glad to see that she is in love with such a great guy.” “Oh,” Austin said trying not to let his anger show, “I see. Well, I have to get a couple of Will’s things and we can leave.” “Okay,” Sami said smiling. “Sami?” Austin asked peeking his head out of the room. “Yes?” she asked him. “Can you please grab my cell phone and make sure that the batteries are working?” Austin asked her. “Sure thing.” she said picking up Austin’s cell phone and taking out the battery. “It’s all set.” “Nothing is going to ruin my weekend with Austin.” She thought to herself as she smiled.

 

“Damn it Sami.” Lucas yelled getting a busy signal once again. “What are you doing?” He decided that she must be up to something once again. Lucas knew that Sami must be thrilled to have Austin agree to take her on a family vacation, but Lucas realized that Carrie needed him. For the first time, Lucas rationalized that Austin and Carrie needed to be together, at least until she pulled through the surgery. “I’ll call Austin’s cell phone.” Lucas thought out loud as he dialed the number frantically. “I’m sorry, but the number you have reached is temporarily out of service. The number you are trying to reach may be out of service lines. Would you please try again later.” the recording on the other end of the line informed him. “Damn it Sami.” Lucas said putting his cell phone away. “What have you done this time?”

 

“We came as soon as Laura called us.” Caroline said running up to John and Marlena. “How is she son?” Shawn asked John. “We don’t know yet. She’s in surgery at this moment. Mike promised to update us if there are any changes in her condition.” John informed him. “What in the world happened tonight?” Caroline asked Marlena. “Kristen shot her.” Marlena explained as the night’s details replayed in her mind. “Kristen was trying to shoot me, but she missed and hit Carrie instead when she tried to push me out of the way..” “Why would Kristen do such an awful thing? She seemed like such a sweet person.” Caroline asked realizing that it was Marlena she was talking to. “On second thought, how in the world did you get here Marlena? Where have you been?” “It’s a long, horrible story.” Marlena said grabbing Caroline’s hand. “I’ll fill you in on all of the details later on. Right now we need to pray for Carrie.” “She will make it through this dear.” Shawn said touching Marlena’s shoulder. “She is a strong young woman and everyone that loves her is right here praying for her.” “Where’s Austin?” Caroline asked John. “Lucas just called him. He should be on his way soon.” John explained to her. “Carrie needs him right now.” Caroline said. “I just hope that he gets here soon. He is so important to her.” Marlena said looking back into the operation room. “His love is the strength that will help keep Carrie here with us.” Caroline said looking at the doctor’s frantically running around her granddaughter.

 

Carrie woke up in a white room and felt her side ache. She looked around and realized that she was in the hospital. She looked out the window and saw the rain falling. She shivered as she remembered the evil look in Kristen’s eyes when she had fired the gun. “Carrie,” Austin called out to her. “Austin,” she said as he rushed to her side, “I was so afraid that I wasn’t going to see you again.” “I’m here for you Carrie.” he said kissing her. “I love you so much.” “I love you too.” she said kissing him again. “I thought that I lost you forever.” “Carrie, when I heard that you were shot, I told Sami the truth.” he said smiling. “She knows that I love only you and the marriage is over. We can finally be together again.” “Oh Austin.” Carrie said throwing her arms around him. “I was so afraid that this day would never come.” “Carrie, we will be together forever.” he said kissing her again. “I promise you that.” “Austin,” Sami stormed into the room carrying Will, “what about your son? You can’t abandon him like this.” “I love my son Sami.” Austin said looking at Carrie. “I will do whatever I have to do to keep him happy. I’ll always be there for Will.” “Then why are you abandoning us for Carrie?” she asked crying. “Can’t you see that we need you more than she does?” “Austin,” Carrie said noticing that he pulled his hand away from hers, “you can’t be listening to her?” “Austin, come over here and hold your son.” Sami said smiling. “Sami…Carrie…” Austin trailed off. “I love you Austin.” Sami said to him. “No Austin. I love you and you love me.” Carrie cried tugging on his arm. “Please don’t leave me.” “Carrie, I…I” he trailed off. “I’m sorry.” “No,” she said as he faded away leaving her alone. “Austin.”

 

“We are all set Sami.” Austin said taking one last look around the apartment. “I’m ready Austin.” Sami said picking up Will. “Me too.” Austin said as they walked out of the apartment. “Then let’s go.” she suggested. “Wait.” he said stopping in the hallway. “I have this feeling that something is wrong.” “What could possibly be wrong Austin?” Sami asked him. “I don’t know, but I feel this pain in my chest as if someone hit me or something.” he explained. “Are you okay?” Sami asked getting worried that he was hurt. “I think so.” he said grabbing his chest. “It might be indigestion.” “Are you sure that you are up to drive?” she asked afraid that her vacation was going to be cut off. “I’ll be fine.” he said locking the door. “The feeling is gone now. It was nothing.” “Let’s get on the road then.” Sami said handing him Will. “Okay,” he said looking at Will, “buddy you are going to have so much fun.” “Soon you will be mine Austin.” Sami thought to herself as she watched him walk to the elevator.

 

“Any luck reaching Austin partner?” John asked Lucas when he came back. “I couldn’t get a hold of Austin or Sami.” Lucas lied to him. “Their answering machine wasn’t on. I tried Austin’s cell phone, but it isn’t working.” “I wonder where they could be.” John said looking at Marlena. “Carrie needs Austin.” “You know,” Lucas lied further, “I think I remember my mom sending Austin on a business trip somewhere.” “Do you think that she could help us find him?” John asked Lucas. “It’s worth a try.” Lucas said quickly walking away from John. He hated lying to John, but Sami had given him no alternative. He just hoped that she hadn’t made a huge mistake.

 

“When did John find Marlena?” Caroline asked sitting down next to Laura. “Tonight.” Laura informed her as she looked on at Marlena. “When did you come out of your coma?” Caroline asked her realizing that it was odd for Laura to be sitting next to her. “Tonight.” Laura replied smiling. “Well, tonight has been quite an eventful evening hasn’t it?” Caroline asked her. “Let’s just say that we all found out what kind of person Kristen really is.” Laura began. “She was the one holding Marlena hostage, making people think that I was crazy, and she is the one who shot Carrie. If that woman wasn’t around we could all be happy. The Dimera lies are beginning to unfold.” “Hopefully Abe will lock her away for a long time.” Caroline said looking over at Marlena. “Stefano’s family has hurt ours long enough. I pray that Carrie will pull through this. I don’t know how we could all handle another Brady funeral.” “She is in good hands. I know that she will be all right.” Laura said watching Mike operate on her. “Where is Austin?” Caroline asked her. “Probably with Sami and Will.” Laura commented. “He seems to have forgotten how important Carrie is, but that’s all right because Mike is here for her.” “What are you talking about?” Caroline asked confused. “My son is in love with Carrie and I guarantee that he won’t let anything happen to her.” Laura said smiling a confident smile. “He will help her through this.”

 

“Austin,” Carrie called out running onto the plane. “Carrie,” he said looking at her, “what are you doing here?” “I found out that you were leaving and I had to stop you.” she began. “I couldn’t let you go away with Sami.” “But what about Mike?” he asked standing up to meet her. “Mike is my friend Austin. You’re the one that I’m in love with.” she said wrapping her arms around him. “You’re the only man that I could ever love.” “Oh Carrie,” he said kissing her. “You don’t know how much it means to hear you say that. I love you so much.” “Carrie,” Mike called out running onto the plane. “Mike,” she said turning to him, “what are you doing here?” “Carrie, don’t go to Austin.” Mike called to her. “He will do nothing, but hurt you. He is just like his father.” “That’s not true Mike.” Austin protested. “I’m a good father.” “Really?” Mike asked him. “Then where is your son?” “Right here.” Austin said turning to find Sami and Will missing. “Where did they go?” “See they slipped out from right under your nose Austin.” Mike said grabbing Carrie. “Carrie, you can’t go to him.” Austin said reaching for her. “I love you.” “Austin, I…” she said looking between the two of them. “Please Carrie, don’t leave me.” Austin pleaded. “I love you Austin.” she said rushing into his arms as Mike faded away. “I only love you.” “I love you too.” he said squeezing her tightly. “Help me Austin.” she said softly. “What?” he asked as she faded away. “Where did you go?” “I need you Austin.” her voice rang throughout the plane. “Please don’t leave me now.” “Carrie…” he called out to her. “Help me Austin.” her voice called out even softer than before. “I can’t go on without you.” Austin suddenly became overwhelmed with a feeing of fear and pain. He could feel his body going limp. “No,” he cried out shaking. “Are you all right Austin?” Sami asked waking him. “I’m fine.” he answered realizing that he was on the plane. “You looked like you were upset dear. Does your stomach hurt again?” she asked concerned about him. “I’ll be okay.” he said trying to tell himself that it was only a dream. “You still look tired Austin.” she said taking his hand in hers. “Why don’t you try to get some more rest before the plane lands?” “No, I just need to be awake right now.” Austin said not wanting to fall asleep again. He couldn’t shake the feeling that something was wrong with Carrie. “Are you sure you’re all right?” she asked him. “It was just a dream.” he said to her. “That’s all.”

 

In the emergency room, Carrie’s conditioned started weakening. Mike looked at her with fear. “No,” he said to one of the other doctors, “we can’t be losing her!” “Dr. Horton, she’s slipping from us.” one of the doctor’s informed him. “Don’t you dare leave me Carrie Brady.” he said to her. “I won’t let you.” “Dr. Horton,she seems to be coming back.” Dr. Smith said to Mike. “It appears that she was responding to your words.” “That’s a girl Carrie. I knew that you would make it through this.” Mike said relieved to know that she wasn’t giving up. “Keep fighting.” “Austin..” Carrie mumbled softly coming out of sedation. “Dr. Horton, it’s too soon for her to be waking up. This could pose a problem.” another doctor said. “Give her something to put her back to sleep so that we can finish the last few stitches.” Dr. Smith suggested. “Oh no wait!” Mike said looking at the monitor in front of him. “We have to open her back up again because there appears to be more internal bleeding than I anticipated.” “Dr. Horton that may not be such a good idea.” a nurse said looking at the monitor. “It’s the only choice we have.” Mike said preparing to undo the stitches. “She could die if we don’t do this.” “Please…I need you.” Carried moaned as she drifted off.

 

“Austin what’s wrong?” Sami asked looking at Austin. “Huh?” he asked her. “What did you say?” “I said ‘what is wrong’?” she replied watching him look out the window at the white. fluffy clouds. “You seem so distant right now. Does it have anything to do with that dream you had a little while ago?” “Sami, I just can’t shake the feeling that something is terribly wrong in Salem.” he explained to her. “Something just doesn’t feel right.” “What is there to feel wrong about?” she asked taking his hand. “We are here on a family trip with our wonderful son. What could be wrong?” “I just feel like something terrible is happening as we speak.” he said. “Well,” Sami said grabbing his hand tighter, “maybe you are just picking up on the fact that I’m thinking about my mom being Stefano’s prisoner somewhere.” “Maybe,” he said trying to dismiss his feelings. “I miss her now that Stefano has taken away again.” Sami told him. “She and I have wasted so much time already and now I’m afraid that I may never see her again.” “You really do miss her, don’t you?” Austin said squeezing Sami’s hand. “Yes,” she said sadly, “I know that I took pretty bad to her when she and John had an affair and daddy left Salem.” “Yes, you had a major problem with that.” Austin explained to her. “It split you and your mom up for a while because you blamed her for everything.” “I know,” Sami said recalling her confrontation with Marlena. “I feel like I hurt her and John so bad and now I will never be able to make up for it.” “Don’t say that Sami.” Austin said putting his arm around her. “John won’t rest until he finds your mom.” “I know. He has always been there for my mom.” Sami said resting her head on his chest. “He really loves my mom, doesn’t he?” “Yes,” Austin said looking out the window. “I think that they belong together.” “I think so too.” she said snuggling into him. “I realize that I was harsh with them because my father was hurt by their actions, but now I know that they belong together. I just wish that they had the chance to show each other how much they love the other one. If only John wasn’t with Kristen.” “Well,” Austin said closing his eyes and thinking about Carrie, “they say that true love always wins out in the end.” “I know that must be true Austin.” Sami said smiling. “After all we have each other.”

 

“I hope that everything is all right in there John.” Marlena said to him. “Why haven’t we heard anything yet?” “Doc, it will be okay.” he replied squeezing her shoulders. “She’s in the best hands right now.” Laura assured her. “Mike would do anything to save Carrie.” “I know that he would Laura.” Marlena said giving her friend a hug. “I know that he’s a good doctor. He’s one of the best in fact.” “Plus,” Lucas said looking into the emergency room, “he is in love with Carrie.” “Why do you say that Lucas? I thought that they were just good friends.” Marlena asked him. “Don’t you see the way that they look at each other?” Lucas asked out loud to himself rather than the others. “I knew it.” Laura said smiling. “Carrie will pull through because love is such a powerful bond that nothing can break it.” “I’ll agree with you on that.” John said looking at Marlena’s tear-stained cheek. “Love can make all the difference in the world.” “I hope so.” Marlena said as more tears fell down her cheeks

 

“Sami,” Austin said still unable to shake the bad feeling he was experiencing, “why don’t I call someone and tell them where we are going in case anything comes up?” “I already did tell someone where we were going.” Sami answered as she watched Austin pick up his cell phone. “Who did you tell?” he asked putting down his cell phone. “Lucas,” she blurted out. “I ghave him the number in case of emergency.” “Oh,” Austin said feeling slightly relieved., “are you sure that we shouldn’t call anyone else like Carrie?” “Your mom knows where we are going, so she can also reach us if something goes wrong, okay?” “all right,” he said reluctantly settling into his seat. “I guess that there is no need to worry then.”

 

Lucas made his way into the chapel and sat down. He prayed to God for forgiveness for all of his devious acts he had performed over the past few months. He realized that he tried so hard to break Austin and Carrie up that he had lost all sense of morality. When he had first decided on making Austin jealous with Mike, he had intended it to be a way to get Carrie for himself, but now he could see that Carrie could possibly have feelings for Mike. He realized that no matter how hard he tried, he could never get Carrie to love him the way that he loved her. He knew that he could give her the world and make her happy, but she continually refused to see it. He thought about Sami and how she had turned her back on him as soon as she had Austin. He also thought about the many times his mother told him to leave Carrie alone if he loved her. Lucas decided to make a pact with God since he loved Carrie with all of his heart. If Carrie survived, then he would stop his evil scheming with Sami once and for all. He would not try to trick Carrie into loving him. If she was to be his, then it would be by choice, not through manipulation.

 

“Doc,” John said wrapping his arms around Marlena, “you need to rest a bit or else you’re going to be the next one lying in a hospital room.” “I can’t rest now John, my baby is fighting for her life when she shouldn’t be in there to begin with.” she began crying to him. “I feel so useless just sitting here doing nothing. This is my fault.” “Doc,” he said holding her firmly, “you have been fighting your own battles for your life in that secret room for over a month now. You can’t be tearing yourself down like this. Kristen and Stefano are responsible.” “What they did doesn’t matter now. It’s me that did this.” she said thinking about Carrie. “Well, it does matter Doc.” John said pulling her closer. “You can’t put this on yourself. It is wrong and you can’t do it.” “John, if I hadn’t have done some of the things that I have done, then none of us would be in this position.” she cried thinking about the event of the past six months. “If only things could have gone differently, then no one would be hurting right now.” “You haven’t hurt anyone Doc.” he said trying to get her to look into his eyes. “Yes, I hurt Carrie through Kristen’s rage for me. I made Roman leave and his death was because of my betrayal and now Sami hates me. Most of all I hurt you.” she cried harder. “Doc, Carrie will be all right. Roman chose his own destiny, not you. He chose to leave and take the mission. His death wasn’t your fault and he knew that. He knew what he was doing.” John said thinking about the letter he received from Roman. “Doc, he wrote me a letter telling me that he forghave us for the affair.” “He did?” she asked surprised. “He wrote me one too.” “See!! There you go.” he said wiping one of her tears away. “That only proves that you weren’t responsible for him. As for Sami, her problems were caused by Stefano and I have faith that one day she will out grow them.” “The fact still remains that you are hurt.” she said turning away from him. “I can feel your pain.” “Doc, my pain was caused by Kristen’s deceptions.” he said pressing his hand to her soft skin. “If anything, I hurt you.” “No John.” she said facing him. “You couldn’t have known that Kristen was evil.” “Oh Doc, I know that this isn’t the time to be telling you this, but all of that time you were gone, I realized how much I needed you in my life. Just the thought of losing you tore me apart inside and I realized that I can’t live without you.” “I need you too.” she said forcing a smile. She thought about seeing him on the monitor proclaiming his love for her. “You are my best friend Doc.” he said pushing her hair away from her eyes. “You’re mine too John.” she said wondering if he had only whispered the words of love over the monitor because she was missing and not because he was in love with her. “Well, good.” he said taking a breath and smiling. “That is why I need to tell you something that I have been keeping locked down deep inside of me.” “What?” she said watching his face tight with some form of tension that she couldn’t read. “Doc I realized that I lo…”he began tracing her cheek. “Marlena,” Mike said coming out of the emergency room, “Carrie pulled through the surgery. She’s in the recovery room right now.” “Oh Mike. Thank you.” she said jumping up to hug him. “Can I go see her?” “Sure,” he said smiling, “I’ll take you there if you would like.” “That would be wonderful. John, my baby is going to be okay.” Marlena said turning to John. “What were you trying to say?” “It can wait.” he said kissing her hand. “Go see Carrie.” “Okay,” Marlena said walking to the recovery room

 

“Baby,” Marlena said sitting down next to Carrie’s hospital bed. She looked at Carrie’s fragile body laying there and grabbed her hand. “I’m so sorry that Kristen did this to you. I feel so responsible for this. If only I could have ended this situation sooner. If only I wouldn’t have let things get so out of hand with Kristen and been honest with John, then this never would have happened.” Carrie was motionless as Marlena squeezed her hand softly. “I know that there are a lot of things that could be different right now, but I promise when you wake up Carrie, I will try to make them better for you. It has been so unfair for everyone to expect you to put your happiness on hold because of other people. You have sacrificed so much already and it would be wrong to make you do it any longer.” Marlena whispered. “When Austin gets here, I will convince him that this charade with Sami has to stop and that it is time for the two of you to get on with your lives. I know what it is like to be away from the one that you love. I will be here for Sami and I know that she will understand that this is the way it has to be…she has to.”

 

“Oh Austin,” Sami said putting Will down in the cabin, “isn’t this the most beautiful place that you have ever seen?” “It’s wonderful Sami.” Austin said putting their bags down. “I just know that this weekend is going to pull all of us together as a family.” She said smiling. “Promise me Austin that this weekend will be one that Will can never forget as long as he lives.” “He will have a great time Sami.” Austin said picking up Will. “I love you Will.” “And he loves you.” Sami added. “He’s very happy to have in mommy and daddy together and in love.” “You know,” Austin said putting Will down, “I forgot some of our things outside. I’ll be right back.” “Okay,” Sami began, “but where is my goodbye kiss?” “Right,” Austin said kissing her forehead. “I’ll be right back.” `”Don’t take too long. I’ll miss you.” Sami said as he walked away out of view. “You will fall in love with me Austin. With Carrie being so far away, nothing will get in my way.” “What am I doing here?” Austin asked himself when he was outside of the door. “I should be talking things through with Carrie.”

 

“Marlena you have been in here for over an hour,” Mike said tapping her on the shoulder, “why don’t you take a break for a few minutes and go see your family?” “I shouldn’t leave her like this Mike. She needs to be with someone right now.” she informed him. “Look,” he explained, “I have a break right now and things are slow around here, so why don’t I stay with Carrie for a little while?” “Okay Mike,” Marlena said getting up and kissing Carrie’s forehead, “I’ll be back soon sweety.” “Well,” Mike said sitting down next to Carrie’s hospital bed, “you ghave me one hell of a scare tonight Carrie Brady. For a few minutes there I was afraid that I was going to lose you. Believe it or not, the idea of spending my life without you in it scared me. I was afraid that you would be gone before I could have a chance to tell you that I think that I am falling for you Carrie. I need you to help me through this because the feelings I have are like nothing I have ever experienced before. I’m starting to notice that Austin is a fool to not realize what he is giving up by being with Sami. You are an angel and you deserve to be cherished. I hate the fact that you have suffered so much, and I promise that you won’t be hurt again Carrie. I won’t let anyone or anything hurt you ever again, do you hear me?” “Mike,” Carrie whispered as she opened her eyes.

 

“How is she Doc?” John said seeing Marlena walk out of the recovery room. “She’s still asleep, but she will be just fine.” Marlena informed the curious crowd. “Shawn and Caroline thank you for being here.” “There is no other place we would rather be dear.” Caroline said. “I want to stay with Carrie tonight.” Marlena announced to John. “I’ll stay with you Doc.” he said grabbing her hand. “You don’t have to John.” she said looking at the crowd. “You can go home with the kids.” “Caroline, would you mind terribly if Belle and Brady stayed with you tonight?” John asked her. “No problem.” Caroline said giving him and Marlena a hug goodnight. “We will take good care of them.” “Thank you.” Marlena said to them as they left. “I think that I had better get going Marlena.” Laura said to her. “I have to see Jennifer and tell her what happened with Kristen. Now maybe we can prove that Peter is alive and Jack can get out of jail.” “I hope so because Jennifer and Jack have suffered long enough.” Marlena said hugging Laura goodbye. “Jack will be home again soon. I know it. Soon this all will be nothing more than an unpleasant memory. You take care of yourself. Okay?” Laura said walking away. “I will.” Marlena said waving. “Bye.” Laura called out walking towards the elevator. “Now what were you saying earlier?” Marlena said turning her attention to John. “I hate doing this to you Doc, but it’ll have to wait for a while longer. I have to talk to Laura before she leaves.” John said racing after Laura. “Okay, I’ll be waiting here for you.” Marlena said watching him chase Laura.

 

“Well, Will it looks like your daddy got lost on his way back to the cabin. I hope that everything is okay.” Sami said picking up Will. “Maybe this weekend we can show daddy that I know how to walk again.” “Boo..” Will said picking up Mr. Bear. “Well, why don’t we watch tv until your daddy gets back?” Sami said turning on the television. “The month long nightmare ended tonight for Dr. Marlena Evans and her family. Unfortunately during their moment of joy, another tragedy began…” the news reported. “Look Will,” Sami said picking him up, “this is great news. Your grandma is saved.” “…at the Dimera mansion earlier this evening Dr. Marlena Evans was released after being held hostage in the house by Kristen Blake. For about a month while police searched frantically for Dr. Evans she was discovered after being held in the wine cellar for over a months freedom seemed near…” “Oh,” Sami gasped, “Kristen had my mom. That witch!!” “…at a desperate moment, Kristen Blake assaulted a police officer by taking his gun, and attempting to shoot Dr. Evans.. Unfortunately, Carrie Brady, Dr. Evans’ daughter was shot in the process. No information about her condition is being released at this time, but she is said to be in critical condition…” “Oh no.” Sami cried, “Carrie’s been shot.”

 

“Carrie,” Mike said looking at her. “don’t try too hard to talk right now. You need your rest to regain your strength.” “Mike,” she said with tears in her eyes, “where is Austin?” “He’s on his way here.” Mike tried to assure her. “I had this terrible dream Mike. He’s not coming is he?” she asked crying. “I’m sure that he is on his way right now.” he said trying to wipe her tears away. “Lucas was calling him and I am sure that he is in his car worried sick about you.” “The dream was so frightening Mike. I need him now Mike.” Carrie said closing her eyes. “He will be here soon.” he said watching her fade off to sleep again. “Damn it Austin, don’t let her down again.”

 

“Laura,” John called out, “can I talk to you for a second?” “What is it John?” she asked turning around. “I wanted to apologize.” he explained. “I realize that I said a couple of things that were out of line tonight…” “A couple?” she questioned. “Okay, a lot of them and I wanted to say that I realize that I was way out of line.” He said looking at her. “I realize that I was acting very arrogant and stupid.” “Yes, you were acting very stupid.” “I know that I was wrong Laura, and I’m sorry.” he said taking her hand. “You helped me find Marlena tonight. Without your help, I would have lost one of the most important things in my life. I thought that she was long gone while all of this time she had been sitting under my nose. I can’t believe how foolish I was believing in Kristen.” “She fooled everyone John. She is evil just like Peter and Stefano.” Laura began looking at him. “Can I ask you something?” “Sure.” he said looking at her. “Did you stay with Kristen because you loved her or out of a sense of duty?” she asked him. “I don’t know.” he said sadly. “I tried convincing myself that staying with Kristen was the best thing for everyone because we had a child…” “I understand that John, but did you love her?” she asked him again. “Laura, I stayed with Kristen because I knew that I could never be with Doc again.” he said sadly. “Well, you have her now, don’t you?” Laura asked smiling. “I know, but so much time has passed and I should have listened to you sooner. If I hadn’t been being so bull headed over the past few weeks then we could have avoided all of this.” he said. “That’s true, but I guess that’s just the typical male thing to do.” she laughed. “What is that supposed to mean?” he asked defensively. “It means that you were just given a second chance at happiness even though you were wrong.” she explained. “I guess that I deserved all the things you said earlier for the way I acted.” he said smiling. “Well, I didn’t mean what I said.” she explained. “No, I think that the word asshole hit me appropriately.” he assured her. “Not about that.” she said smiling. “About not understanding what Marlena sees in you.” “Oh,” he said softly, “that hurt you know?” “It got you to listen, didn’t it?” she said. “Yes, it did.” he admitted. “You do realize that I would do anything for Doc.” “I know that.” she said smiling again. “I just had to get your attention somehow.” “You definitely got that across.” he said returning her smile. “Well, listen I have to get home.” she said looking at the time. “Do you need a ride?” he asked her. “No, Jenn is meeting me downstairs. I can’t wait to get home.” she smiled. “If you need anything just call.” he said. “I will.” she said turning away. She suddenly turned around again to face him. “John?” “Yes,” he said looking at her. “Don’t be a fool.” she said. “Huh?” he asked. “Get your butt over there and tell Marlena that you are in love with her. I think that you have wasted too much time already being pig-headed. Wouldn’t you agree?” she asked him as she started walking away. “I think you’re right.” he called out to her. “I know that I am.” she said walking down to the elevator. John turned to see Marlena sitting in a chair. Well buddy, he thought to himself, you better listen to Laura this time. He walked over to Marlena. “Doc I need to talk to you about something.” he said as he looked down at her and saw her sleeping in the chair. He sat down next to her and touched her hair. “I guess this is your way of telling me that this can wait.” he laughed.

 

“Good morning sleepy head.” John said sitting down on the couch next to Marlena. “Ugh.” she moaned rolling away from him on the couch. “What time is it?” “Ten.” he said rubbing her shoulder. “That feels so good.” she said muffled from the couch cushion. “You know Doc, I would let you sleep longer, but I thought that you might want to see Carrie at some point today.” “Oh my,” she said sitting up quickly. “I almost forgot about what happened last night. I was hoping that it was only a dream.” “I’m sorry that it wasn’t a dream sweetheart.” John said still rubbing her shoulders. “How is she doing?” Marlena said getting ready to stand up. “I can’t believe that I fell asleep last night while she was…” “Marlena,” John said pushing her back down. “she is fine. I checked up on her at least once an hour every hour while you were asleep.” “Are you sure that she is alright?” she asked him. “She is going to be just fine Doc.” he said handing her a doughnut and a cup of coffee. “I know this isn’t your idea of breakfast in bed, but this will have to do for now. Sorry that it is such a pathetic excuse for a meal.” “It looks great.” she said smiling at him. “Really Doc, you don’t have to try to make me feel better about giving you an old doughnut.” he said smiling. “It’s not the food that matters. I couldn’t have had a better face to wake up to this morning.” she grinned. “Well, you just wait until I get you home Doc.” he said with a grin. “You can have me serve you breakfast in bed anytime that you want.” “Really?” she asked looking at him closely. “It’s the least that I could do for you considering all that you have been through.” he added. “Oh, I see.” she said disappointed. “Well, Doc,” he said clearing his throat, “I wanted to have a talk with you last night, but you looked like an angel sleeping there…I couldn’t wake you up. You know I sat up last night practicing the words that I was going to say, and you know what? I’m speechless.” “What’s on your mind John?” she asked him. “Doc, you know how you think of things and they just don’t seem to come out?” he asked her. “Uh-huh.” “Well, what I am trying to say is that I have all of these thoughts, these…oh I don’t know…” he trailed off. “You aren’t making any sense John.” she said confused. “What do you have on your mind?” “What I am trying to say is that I realized that I can’t live without you in my life.” he said looking her over. “There I said it.” “Well, I can’t live without you either John. You wouldn’t believe how much I have to say to you.” she said smiling. “Good.” he said taking her hand. “That makes this easier then I hoped. I realized that you are very special to me Doc. You have always held an important part in my life and I think…I know that I want to spend the rest…” “Marlena, I need to talk to you.” Mike interrupted. “What is it Mike?” Marlena asked turning her attention away from John. “I need your help with Carrie.” he explained. “She insists that she should go home right now.” “That’s ridiculous.” John said deciding that his talk with Doc would have to be put on hold once again. “You can’t let her do that Mike. You’re her doctor. You have to let her know that she isn’t up to going home.” Marlena said to him. “I know that Marlena, but she refuses to listen to me. I don’t want to upset her, so that’s why I would really appreciate you to talking to her. I know that she will listen to you.” he said. “Okay Mike.” Marlena said turning to John. “Do you mind if we can finish our conversation later?” “No problem Doc.” he said kissing her hand. “It can wait.”

 

Carrie sat in her hospital bed thinking about Austin. She couldn’t believe that he hadn’t come to see her yet. She realized that she could’ve died and the man that supposedly loved her was no where to be found. When Lucas had come by to see her periodically, she had asked him where Austin was, but he didn’t have any idea. He kept telling her not to worry and it was beginning to frustrate her. “What is this I hear that you insist upon leaving?” Marlena said interrupting her thoughts. “Marlena,” Carrie began, “I want to go home. I don’t feel right sitting in this depressing hospital room staring at the walls.” “You were just shot last night Carrie. You don’t have a choice in the matter.” Marlena explained. “I would feel so much better at home Marlena. It would speed up my recovery.” Carrie insisted. “Mike wants you to stay here for at least one more day for observation. He is your doctor and he knows what he’s talking about Carrie. Going home now would only make things worse for you.” Marlena informed her. “Will you at least consider that?” “Marlena,” Carrie said with tears in her eyes, “sitting here only makes me think about Austin. I now realize that he doesn’t care about me like I care about him.” “How can you say that?” Marlena asked her. “He isn’t here.” she explained. “Every time I need him, he’s never here for me anymore.” “Well,” Marlena said sitting next to her. “I’m sure that there is a reasonable explanation for that.” “Yeah,” Carrie moaned, “he is off playing house with Sami.” “I’m so sorry sweetie. I feel like this is all my fault.” Marlena said sadly. “I should have never asked Austin to participate in this charade.” “How could you have known that Sami would take this long to recover? I don’t think that it is anyone’s fault that Sami is the way that she is. If she hadn’t plotted in the beginning, then Austin wouldn’t have to be pretending and we would have been together long ago.” “I’m sorry.” Marlena explained. “I feel responsible for Sami’s actions. She fell apart when your father left after John and I had the affair. I know that what I did destroyed her and since then she has been making life hell for everyone around her.” “It’s not your fault Marlena. You and John love each other and Sami should be grown up enough to understand that. What daddy decided to do was his choice, not yours. His leaving wasn’t anyone’s fault.” Carrie said. “Speaking of you and John, have you two talked about anything yet?” “No,” Marlena said. “We haven’t had the time to talk with everything that has happened.” “I feel responsible for that.” Carrie said. “Don’t you dare! Kristen is at fault not you. Besides, I have waited for such a long time I wouldn’t know where to start with him.” she responded. “Tell him the truth Marlena.” Carrie insisted. “He needs to know how much you still love him.” “I’ll tell him.” Marlena assured her. “Hey, what difference is a few hours going to matter anyways?” “How’s my pumpkin?” John asked walking into the room and looking at the two women. “What is going on here?” “Nothing.” they both giggled looking at his confused face. “Then why don’t I believe either one of you?” he asked looking them over. “Why do I get the sudden feeling that I am in the dark about something very important that’s going on?” “Well, how is it going in here?” Mike asked walking into the room. “I think these two beautiful ladies are up to something Mike.” John said looking them over. “What is that?” Mike asked eyeing Marlena and Carrie. “I don’t know, but I have learned from experience that tickle torture has worked quite nicely.” John replied grabbing Marlena. “I have Doc, and you can take care of Carrie.” “Mike,” Carrie called out to him. “Yes?” he asked laughing at John who was tickling Marlena. “I decided to quit arguing with you and stay here for one more day.” she smiled at him. “You did?” Marlena asked her as John released her. “Yes,” Carrie said smiling, “I’m feeling better. I think that Mike was right about me needing to stay a little while longer. He’s a great doctor and I shouldn’t question him.” “Thank you.” Mike sighed setting down her charts. “You have no idea how glad I am to hear you say that.” “I know that it is the right thing to do.” Carrie began turning to John and Marlena. “Plus, I think that it is time for you and John to go home and get some rest.” “Carrie I want to be here for you.” Marlena said. “I don’t want to leave you alone.” “Sweety, we want to help you.” John added. “You could really help me by going home and resting. You both look terrible.” she said to them. “Nothing would ease my mind more than to know that you both are relaxed. Besides, I have Mike here to keep me company. I’ll be fine. Isn’t that right Mike?” “Of course.” he agreed. “Don’t these two look terrible?” she asked him. “You do look like you two could use some sleep.” Mike agreed. “I’ll stay with Carrie.” “See, now you have doctor’s orders.” Carrie grinned. “Go home!!” “Well, if you insist.” John began. “I do.” Carrie said looking at him. “I won’t take no for an answer.” “Well, Doc.” John said looking at Marlena. “We better listen to her. We don’t want her to send her doctor out after us.” “Alright.” she said turning to Carrie. “If you need anything, then just call me.” “I will.” Carrie said watching them leave. “What is this all about?” Mike asked noticing Carrie’s excited grin. “I am trying to play cupid.” she said watching John put his arm around Marlena. “How am I doing?” “Pretty good so far.” Mike said watching John and Marlena walk to the elevator. “That’s what I hoped for.” she said sitting up. “If things go right, then at least one couple in Salem will be happy.” “Carrie,” Mike assured her, “I’m going to make sure that you are happy tonight.” “What do you have up your sleeve Dr. Horton?” she asked playfully. “You are going to have to wait and see.” he smiled.

 

“Doc, you were awfully quiet on the way here.” John said entering Marlena’s penthouse. “I was just thinking about how good it was going to feel being home after everything that has happened.” she said sitting down on her couch. “It has been such a long time since I’ve been here.” “I know what you mean.” John said sitting down next to her. “It seems like a lifetime ago.” “Exactly,” she said closing her eyes. “I never thought that I would be here like this again.” “Doc, you know that I would’ve found you.” he said looking at her. “That’s not what I meant.” she said forcing the words out. “I never thought that you and I would be here together like this again.” “Hey, after all that we have been through.” John said trying to read her facial expressions. “Shhh! Listen Doc…” “It’s awfully quiet in here..” she said noticing the silence. “The kids are still at Shawn and Caroline’s.” John informed her with a smile. “We should have picked them up.” Marlena said to him. “I’ve made arrangements and they are going to stay one more night.” John explained. “Caroline said that she would be delighted to have them.” “Well, I don’t want to impose upon her.” Marlena said to him. “She loves having them.” he said taking her hand. “Besides that wasn’t what I wanted you to notice.” “Then what?” she asked facing him. “Close your eyes again.” he said taking her hand and putting it to his chest. “Now open them.” “John?” she asked slightly confused. “Listen,” he said brushing her eyelids shut with his hand. “what you hear is my heart beating for you Doc. With each beat, it proclaims all that I feel for you.” “John, I…” she began opening her eyes. “Let me finish.” he said raising a finger to her lips. “If I don’t get it out now, then I’m afraid that I’ll never be able to do it.” “Alright.” she said closing her eyes again and concentrating on the warm touch of his hand on her face. “Doc, I have waited many months to tell you what I am about to say. I know that you and I agreed that we should only be friends after Roman left, but those feelings that I had for you didn’t die Doc. I have been denying myself the one thing that I have wanted for such a long time…you. I know that you thought it best if we spent time apart as friends, but every night without you has been too much for me to bear.” he said longingly. “John, I…” she began opening her eyes to see the tears on his cheek. “Shhh.” he said tracing her lips with his fingers. “Let me continue. I need to do this.” “Alright,” she repeated as his hand moved along her cheek. “I know that we decided to go our separate ways, but I couldn’t let go of everything that I felt for you Doc. I tried to make it work with Kristen, but deep in my heart I knew that she could never be you. I knew that no matter how hard I tried I could never love her the way that I loved you.” he explained with his voice full of emotion. Marlena could feel her own eyes filling up with tears as John continued to speak to her. “Doc, I know that it is unfair of me to push all of these feelings upon you now that you have moved on with your life, but I can’t stand being silent any longer. I had to let you know how I felt about you.” “John,” she began as her heart pounded. “Shh..” he said shutting her mouth once again. “But…” she began with a muffled sound as he moved in and tenderly kissed her delicate lips.

 

“How are you feeling?” Mike asked walking into Carrie’s room. “I’m doing better.” she said forcing a smile. “And you?” “Well,” he began as he pulled a single red rose out from behind his back, “I brought this to cheer you up beautiful lady.” “Thank you Mike.” she said smiling. “You didn’t have to.” “I know that.” he said kissing her forehead. “I wanted to.” “You are so sweet Mike.” she said looking at him. “What did I do to deserve this?” “Wait.” he said walking over to the door. “There’s more.” “More?” she asked curiously. “Yep.” he said wheeling in a cart with a metal tray and candles upon it. “I’m treating you to candle light dinner. I know that the hospital isn’t exactly the most wonderful place for a special dinner, and I know that I am not your first choice to be having it with either, but….” “How sweet.” Carrie said looking at him. “I love it Mike.” “Really?” he asked taking the lid off of the grilled chicken entree. “Really.” she smiled at him. “I would be honored to have you as my date this evening.” “I’m going to make this a very special night for you Carrie Brady.” he said closing the door behind him.

 

“Doc, I’m sorry.” he said pulling away from her. “I was just so overwhelmed with the moment that I couldn’t control myself.” “John…” she started as he cut her off. “I realize that you probably weren’t expecting me to kiss you like that…” he began blushing. “No I didn’t.” she said smiling. “I know that I just want to…” he began. “John?” she asked cutting him off. “Yes?” he said looking at her. “Would you just shut up and kiss me?” she asked pulling him towards her. “As you wish.” he said kissing her with all the desire that had been burning up inside of him for over a year. “I want you so much Doc.” “John,” she said running her fingers down his back, “you don’t know how long I have waited for you to say that.” “Doc, I want to make love to you right now.” he said as she slid down on the couch. He hungrily kissed her mouth as she responded to his every movement. She gasped as his hands anxiously slid down the sides of her body. “Oh John.” she said pulling off his shirt revealing his bare flesh underneath. “Doc,” he said as he began to slowly undress her. “you are even more breath taking than I remembered.” “You don’t know how long I have waited for this.” she said sliding her arms around his warm body.

 

“Mike, dinner was wonderful. I couldn’t have asked for a better companion.” Carrie said smiling. “Well, I know that you have been feeling down lately, and you looked like you needed a good cheering up. Besides it has been a long time since I have had to take care of such a special woman. I’m just glad to have had dinner with the most beautiful woman in the entire hospital.” he added removing the trays. “Oh come on Mike. A handsome guy like you probably has millions of love sick patients knocking down his door.” she laughed. “None as pretty as you Carrie Brady.” he smiled at her. “Mike, you always know the right things to say.” she said blushing. “You’re always so good to me Mike and I appreciate that you know. You are always so willing to look out for my feelings.” “Someone has to take care of you.” he said squeezing her hand. “You know, I’ll be here for you as long as you need me.” “Mike,” she said looking at the floor, “you have helped me with so much lately that I don’t know if I can ever repay you for all that you’ve done.” “Carrie, having you in my life is all that I need.” he said looking her over. “You mean a lot to me.” “There are so many things on my mind right now.” she began looking at the floor. “Do you want to talk about them?” he asked her. “It’s about Austin and I.” she breathed in. “I think that there is so much that I have to get out and I need to talk to someone. I feel like there should be some explanation for the way that I’m feeling.” “Carrie,” he said touching her face, “you don’t have to explain anything. Everyone knows that you are in love with Austin and as soon as this thing with Sami is over, you two can get married.” “I wish that it was that simple Mike, ” she said starting to cry. “but I feel like there was a point in time when I thought that Austin and I could’ve been together forever, and now it seems like he just doesn’t care anymore.” “Of course Austin cares about you. You know that he would do anything to be with you.” Mike assured her. “Would he?” Carrie asked him sadly. “Of course.” he responded. “He is trying to help Sami get her memory back so that you two can be together. He cares about you so much.” “Then why in the world isn’t he here right now?” she yelled. “I’m sure that there is a reasonable explanation for him not being here.” Mike informed her. “How can you be so sure?” she asked him. “I believe that if you truly love someone, then you will do anything to make them happy. Austin is playing this game in the hopes of Sami getting her memory back. He wants to be with you and he thinks that by helping Sami he can make things better for the two of you.” he explained. “Well, the only thing he is doing is tearing us apart.” she cried. “I know that he loves you.” Mike said moving in to kiss her forehead. “Who wouldn’t love you?” “Mike,” she said as he moved inches from her face. “Yeah?” he asked looking into her eyes. “Thank you.” she smiled. “You always know how to make me feel better.” “No problem.” he smiled back at her as he started to move away. “Mike?” she called pulling him close again. “Yes?” he asked noticing a change in her facial expression. “I just want you to know how much I appreciate you.” she said kissing him softly on the lips.

 

“What was that for?” Mike asked pulling away from Carrie. “I don’t know.” she said looking at him. “Well, that was quite a surprise.” he thought out loud. “Was it really?” she asked him. “Well, I have thought about it, but yes it was.” he said smiling at her. “So now what?” “I don’t know.” she said turning away from him. “I have been so confused lately about things. With Austin deserting me all the time to be with Sami I have just started to feel so empty and then you came along. You are such a dear friend to me Mike and I just wanted to show you that I appreciated all that you have done for me.” “You don’t have to explain.” he said touching her forehead. “That was a very sweet gesture. You don’t have to say another word.” “Mike,” she said facing him, “that wasn’t fair to you, I shouldn’t have kissed you like that.” “Carrie, it was just a friendly gesture, right?” Mike asked looking at her beautiful face. “Of course.” she said noticing that he was starting to blush. “Well, that’s what I thought it was.” he said disappointed. “Mike, all that I know is that I am not sure how to feel about anything.” she began. “Just when I think that my life is in order, something unexpected happens and sends things off balance again.” “What do you mean?” he asked confused. “It just seems like every time I think that Austin and I are going to get back together something gets in the way.” she said sadly looking off across the room. “It seems like there is always some type of obstacle in our way. It feels like things just get more complicated as time goes on.” “Well,” he said smiling at her, “let me make this easy for you.” “How?” she asked him. “Well, Ms. Brady,” he said looking into her eyes, “As your doctor, I am advising you not to start thinking about anything negative right now. Because I care about you, I’m going to make you rest now.” “Mike, I don’t know if that is such a good idea.” she said looking at him. “I feel so alone now.” “Carrie, I want you to know something.” “What?” she asked him. “No matter what happens with your situation, I want you to know that you will always have me by your side.” he said picking up her hand and kissing it. “You are so wonderful Mike.” she said with a tear rolling down her cheek. “Thank you so much for being here.” “Hey,” he said standing up, “that’s what friends are for.” “Mike,” she called out to him as he was opening up the door to leave. “Look I know that this is going to sound crazy, but I don’t want to be alone tonight. I was wondering if you didn’t have anything better to do, then would you stay with me?” “Are you sure about this?” he cautiously asked her as his heart raced. “Yes,” she said sadly, “I don’t think that I could stand being here alone.” “What about Austin?” he asked looking her over. “Mike, you are my friend. There is nothing wrong with you staying here with me here in the hospital.” she said seriously. “I’ll tell you what.” he said moving over to her bed. “I’ll lay here with you until you fall asleep.” “Okay.” she said scooting over to let him in beside her. “Thank you.” “No problem.” he said putting his arm around her and closing his eyes. “Good night Mike.” she said closing her eyes. “If only you knew how much this means to me.” Mike thought feeling her snuggle up against him.

 

“Austin, why are you driving like a maniac?” Sami asked watching the road. “We’ll be back in Salem soon enough.” “Carrie’s hurt Sami. I need to be with her.” he said cutting off a red car. “We are all worried about my sister Austin, but this isn’t worth getting us all killed.” Sami yelled at him. “Look Sami,” Austin said turning to face her. “she could be seriously hurt right now and she needs me.” “Look out Austin.” she said as he swerved away from a trash can in the middle of the road. “Sorry,” he said pressing his foot on the accelerator. “Mike can take care of her Austin.” she pointed out to him. “Besides I’m sure that he wouldn’t let the love of his life die.” “They’re just friends Sami.” Austin said switching lanes again. “How can you be so sure?” she asked. “Because I know Carrie.” Austin said focusing on the road. “Plus, she told me that she has no romantic interest in Mike.” “Austin, I’m her sister and I know that she’s in love. Often Carrie is in love without realizing it.” Sami insisted. “Besides why do you care who my sister is interested in? You should be happy that she has found true love like the two of us have.” “I can’t believe that my cell phone was dead.” Austin said ignoring her. “I thought that you checked the batteries and packed the spare before we left.” “I forgot to grab the battery because Will was getting fussy. Also I did check the batteries Austin. You know how cheap those phones are made.” she lied as she watched him almost hit the car in front of them. “Maybe you should watch the road now.” Austin looked at the cars ahead praying that he would make it back in time to help Carrie. The events of the evening kept playing over in his mind. He was sitting at dinner with Sami and Will when the waitress turned on the television to show the big story on the news. Austin wasn’t paying any attention until he saw Carrie’s beautiful face on the screen. His heart sunk as he discovered that she had been shot. Austin looked at Sami again and noticed that she was looking out her window. He felt bad for what she must be going through, but he also realized that he couldn’t lose Carrie. He decided that he was going to tell Sami the truth when he got back to Salem so that he and Carrie could be together. He knew that there must be some way for Mickey to get his marriage to Sami over with. He just prayed that it wasn’t too late.

 

“God, I thought that I would never be able to hold you like this again.” he said pulling her body close to his. “I thought that making love to you again was only going to be part of my dreams.” “Well,” she said kissing his chest, “I am here now, aren’t I?” “Yes,” he said kissing her head, “and it feels like all of my dreams have come true.” “I have waited for so long to be with you.” she agreed resting her head against him. “This feels so right.” “I feel like we have wasted so much time. If only I could’ve figured out sooner that you still loved me.” he said full of regret. “How could I have been so blind? Why didn’t I see Kristen for who she really was?” “How could you have known?” she asked looking up at him. “Kristen fooled us all.” “I should have seen through it.” he said sadly as he ran his fingers through her hair. “I can’t believe that I was so stupid.” “She manipulated you John. She knew of your nobility and she played upon it.” Marlena said squeezing him. “How could you have known that she was so evil?” “That isn’t the point Doc.” he said sitting up. “If you think about it, I’ve been in love with you all this time and I never could bring myself to tell you.” “You were trying to do what was right for Kristen and the baby.” she said squeezing his shoulders. “We all were.” “Doc,” he said looking into her eyes, “I can’t believe that I was too blind to see that you were in love with me still.” “John, none of that matters now. All of those months of praying to be with you…” she began. “Doc, I can’t believe that you were silent for so long. You must have gone crazy seeing me with Kristen for all of those months.” “It hurt at the time, but I am here with you now.” she said sitting up next to him. “I can’t believe that I put you through all of this.” he said touching her face. “I have put you through hell so many times…” “Don’t say that John.” she said cutting him off. “Hell would be living a life without you.” “Oh Doc,” he said getting up. “I don’t deserve you. I never should’ve tried to hide my feelings from you.” “John, I love you and nothing will ever change that.” she said taking his hand and kissing it. “There is so much that you don’t know.” he said moving away into the darkness. “All I need to know is that you are here with me right now.” she said pulling on John’s shirt and walking over to him. “Our love is all that matters.” “I need to tell you something.” he said closing his eyes as he turned his back to her. “It’s about Susan. I need to let you know what happened with her when I thought that she was Kristen.” “You don’t have to explain.” she said wrapping her arms around his stomach. “No Doc, you have a right to know things before I can try to become worthy of your love again.” he said as he stared blankly out the window. “I already know that you slept with her.” she said feeling his body tense up. “How?” he asked turning to face her. “I..I” she said with tears in her eyes as she remembered John making love to Susan. “I saw you with her.” “What?” he asked confused. “How could you have seen?” “Kristen had video carmeras installed throughout the house so that we could see everything that was going on.” She said closing her eyes as images floated in her mind.. “I think that she was using them to torture me, but when we were both locked in that room, she witnessed everything too.” “Oh God,” he said touching Marlena’s cheek. “I can’t believe that you had to see that. I’m so sorry and ashamed that you had to bear witness to that.” “Don’t be.” she said dismissing the thought and opening her eyes. “You thought that she was your wife and the mother of your child.” “The child that Kristen lost in Paris.” John finished with tears in his eyes. “I can’t believe that she kept that from me.” “I know that it hurts John.” Marlena said looking at him. “I feel your pain and I promise that we will get through this together.” “Doc,” he said touching her again. “I can’t expect you to deal with this considering all that you have gone through for the last year.” “John, I’ll be here with you forever. Your pain is my pain.” she said kissing him softly. “I’ll be with you always.” “I love you so much Doc.” he said pulling her close to him. “I won’t ever let you get away from me again.” “I’m not going anywhere.” she assured him. “I still can’t believe that I am here with you.” he said pulling her tighter. “John, honey.” she said muffled from his chest. “You know I love you, but I think that you are squeezing me a little too tightly.” “Sorry,” he said releasing her. “I just can’t get enough of you.” “Well dear.” she said seductively pulling him to the stairs, “I think that I have a solution to your problem

 

“Where is she?” Austin asked rushing into the hospital. “Where is Carrie?” “Calm down.” Lucas said moving over to his brother’s side. “She is going to be alright.” “What happened Lucas?” Sami asked him as she wheeled herself into the hospital. “Well,” he began as he glared at Sami. “Kristen shot Carrie last night at the DiMera mansion.” “What in the world was she doing there Lucas?” Austin asked frantically. “She and Laura went over there to expose Kristen. It turns out that Laura wasn’t crazy after all. Kristen had Marlena locked up in some sort of secret room in the basement.” Lucas explained. “I guess that the baby nurse had been impersonating Kristen while she was locked up with Marlena.” “You mean that my mother has been found?” Sami asked him. “Yes,” he said coldly turning to Austin, “Anyways, Kristen was trying to shoot Marlena, but Carrie pushed her out of the way.” “Why didn’t anyone try to reach me?” Austin asked furious. “I tried calling, but you weren’t at the apartment and your cell phone wasn’t working.” Lucas explained. “Yeah,” Austin began, “I don’t know what happened with the cell phone, but I know that it was working fine before we left. Where is Carrie?” “She is in room three fifteen.” Lucas began to explain. “Mike’s keeping her company right now.” “I don’t care who is in there. I want to see her.” Austin said turning towards the direction of Carrie’s room. “Austin, I want to go too.” Sami added. “She’s my sister and I have a right to be with her.” “I want you to wait here.” Austin said to her. “No Austin.” Sami said to him. “I need to see my sister.” “Sami,” Austin explained, “I think that you have already been through enough stress today. I think that seeing Carrie will only upset you. I will go see her and if she looks okay, then I will come back for you. Alright?” “Okay,” she said reluctantly, “but, please don’t take to long.” “I won’t.” he said rushing off to Carrie’s room. “What the hell were you thinking Sami?” Lucas asked looking at her. “What are you talking about Lucas?” Sami asked wheeling away from him. “I tried calling you and you hung up on me.” he yelled at her. “I told you it was important, but you just couldn’t listen, could you?” “I was looking out for my family’s best interest.” she said looking at him. “I went on a family vacation that was very important to my son.” “Where is Will?” he asked noticing that his nephew was missing. “He’s at Wendy’s place.” She explained. “We dropped him off there before we came here. Austin nearly killed us all on the drive here to get to his precious Carrie.” “Doesn’t that tell you something Sami?” Lucas asked her. “It says that Austin is still madly in love with Carrie.” “Lucas, why are you always trying to bring me down? I was trying to have some quality time with my family and you have to make me look like the bad guy. It’s not like I was the one that shot Carrie.” she said innocently. “You may as well have Sami. Besides, you know the only reason that you and Austin are together is because of your scheming.” he yelled at her. “Don’t play so innocent Lucas.” she said full of spite. “Whose idea was it to pull Mike and Carrie closer together?” “Well, that is different because…” he began. “Anyways,” she said cutting him off, “it was Austin’s idea to go away. He said that he need to clear his head because of everything that has been going on lately.” “You don’t honestly expect me to believe that Austin asked to go on the trip.” Lucas said to her. “Believe what you want to believe Lucas, but it’s the truth.” she said to him. “The truth to you is lies Sami. You wouldn’t know the truth if it bit you in the face.” he said looking her over. “I wouldn’t be surprised if you knew about what happened to Carrie long before Austin found out.” “Lucas, how dare you accuse me of…” she began trying to act innocent. “I knew it.” he said looking her over. “You did know about it, didn’t you? You purposely kept it from Austin.” “So what Lucas.” she yelled at him as she looked around the empty room. “Yes, I found out about it when I was watching television. When it came on the news, the reporter said that she was out of danger. I assumed that since she was going to be alright, so I decided that I didn’t have to tell Austin about it.” “That was low Sami.” he said to her. “What if Carrie had died? You would have had to live with that the rest of your life.” “She didn’t die. I was only looking out for my family’s best interests.” she remineded him. “Besides, Austin found out on his own and now we’re here.” “Well, I’m sure that he is talking to her right now.” Lucas said slightly worried. “Carrie has been asking for him all night you know.” “Well, Lucas, you have to help me find a way to keep them apart.” she informed him. “Oh, no.” he said backing off. “I won’t play any part of your scheming any longer.” “Since when did you get self rightous Lucas? If I recall correctly, you were my biggest supporter in breaking up Austin and Carrie.” she pointed out him. “I just hate seeing Carrie suffer like this.” he explained to her. “Maybe we should just let destiny take it’s course.” “Austin is my destiny Lucas and if you aren’t going to help me, then I will come up with something on my own.” she said wheeling away towards Carrie’s room. “Now what am I going to do?” Lucas asked himself.

 

Austin walked to Carrie’s room and decided to tell her that he was going to stop pretending to be happily married to Sami because Carrie’s love meant the world to him. He realized that Carrie had suffered long enough while he tried to help Sami get her memory back. He decided that he was going to ask Carrie to be with him forever. “Carrie,” Austin whispered as he tiptoed into Carrie’s darkened room. He stopped dead in his tracks when he saw Mike sleeping next to Carrie in her hospital bed. Mike had his arms around her as she slept peacefully. Austin stepped out of the room and felt the wind knocked out of him. He realized that he was too late. He wasn’t there for Carrie in her hour of need, so she had turned to the one man that was able to give her the support that she needed–Mike. “I couldn’t have lost her. There has to be some explanation for this.” he said to himself as he looked in her window again at Carrie and Mike sleeping. “She can’t be in love with Mike.” “Austin,” Sami cried out as she saw him outside Carrie’s door. “what are you doing out here?” “I was just checking on Carrie.” he began as Sami wheeled up along side him. “How cute. Look at them Austin.” she said smiling as she peered through the window. “I told you that they were in love.” “Hey guys,” Lucas said approaching them, “what’s going on here?” “Carrie and Mike are in there sleeping together.” she informed them. “Don’t they look cozy?” “Yeah,” Lucas replied as his heart sank. “Real cozy.” “Sami,” Austin said turning away from the door. “Let’s go home now.” “Don’t you want to talk to Carrie?” she asked him as she tried to hold back a smile. “I think that if would be better if we left her and Mike alone.” he said looking into the room once more. “Maybe you’re right; we shouldn’t intrude. It would be better for all of us if we went home.” she smiled brightly. “Do you want me to tell Carrie that you stopped by?” Lucas asked Austin. “No,” Austin said looking away from Mike and Carrie, “don’t mention that I was here.” “Are you sure about that?” Lucas asked him. “Positive.” Austin said turning to Sami. “Let’s go home Sami.” “Okay.” Sami said turning to Lucas. “I’m sure that everything is going to turn out alright. Send Carrie my love.” “Goodbye Sami.” Lucas said watching his brother walk away shattered. “I hope that you are happy.” “I’m thrilled.” she said giving Mike and Carrie one last look. “Thanks to Carrie and Mike, I will have Austin. Good night.” “Yeah right.” Lucas said walking away from her. “Everything is better that I could have hoped for.” She thought to herself. “Austin was devastated when he saw Carrie sleeping in Mike’s arms. He won’t try to fight for her now that he thinks that she is in love with Mike.” “Are you ready Sami?” Austin called from the elevator. “Sure,” she said smiling as she wheeled herself over to the elevator. “Let’s go home.”