INT. PRINCETON PLAINSBORO TEACHING HOSPITAL - DIAGNOSTIC OFFICE - A FEW DAYS LATER
The office is bustling with activity as usual. The team is deep in discussion about their latest case, but the mood is slightly more relaxed. Cameron is finalizing travel arrangements while Carl waits patiently, his excitement barely contained.
Cameron
(Putting away her phone)
All set. I've booked the flight and arranged transportation. We'll be heading to Chicago this weekend.
Carl
(Grinning)
Thanks, Cameron. This means a lot to me.
Chase
(Glancing up)
You excited about seeing your family? I can't imagine how it must feel.
Carl
(Nodding)
Yeah, it's been a while. It'll be good to catch up and see how everyone's doing.
Foreman
(Seriously)
Just remember, Carl, family can be complicated. It's not always easy to pick up where you left off.
Carl
(Smiling)
I know. I'm ready for whatever comes. Just hope it goes well.
House
(Looking up from his desk)
Make sure you don't get into too much trouble while you're there. I'd hate to have to bail you out.
Carl
(Laughing)
I'll try to behave. But no promises.
Cameron
(Supportively)
We'll make sure everything is in order before you leave. Just focus on reconnecting with your family.
House
(Leaning back)
And while you're at it, try not to bring any Gallagher chaos back with you. We've got enough of our own.
Carl
(Smiling)
I'll do my best. Thanks, everyone.
INT. AIRPORT - CHICAGO - DAY
Cameron and Carl step out of the airport into the bustling city. Carl looks around with a mixture of nostalgia and anticipation.
Cameron
(Looking at Carl)
Ready for this?
Carl
(Taking a deep breath)
Yeah. Let's do it.
INT. GALLAGHER HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - LATER
The Gallagher household is as chaotic as ever. Fiona, Lip, Ian, Debbie, and Liam are gathered in the living room, catching up and chatting. The doorbell rings, and Fiona opens the door to find Carl and Cameron standing there.
Fiona
(Surprised)
Carl! You're here!
Carl
(Smiling)
Hey, Fiona. It's been too long.
Fiona
(Hugging Carl)
It's so good to see you! Come in, everyone's here.
INT. GALLAGHER HOUSE - DINING ROOM - EVENING
The dining table is filled with food and lively conversation. Carl is catching up with his siblings, sharing stories and updates. Cameron sits at the end of the table, observing with a warm smile.
Lip
(To Carl)
So, what's life like in New Jersey? Still hanging out with fancy doctors?
Carl
(Laughing)
Yeah, it's been an experience. But I've learned a lot. It's good to be back, though.
Debbie
(Curious)
And how's everything with you? I mean, with us and everything?
Carl
(Thoughtfully)
It's been a rollercoaster. But seeing you guys, it feels like home. I've missed this.
Ian
(Nodding)
We've missed you too. It's been rough without you around.
Liam
(Smiling shyly)
Glad you're here, Carl.
Cameron
(Smiling warmly)
I'm really glad to see you all reconnecting. It's important to have family, no matter what.
Fiona
(To Cameron)
Thanks for bringing him. We appreciate it.
Cameron
(Sincerely)
It's my pleasure. Carl means a lot to me, and it's good to see him reconnect with his roots.
INT. GALLAGHER HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - LATE EVENING
After dinner, the family sits together, reminiscing and sharing laughs. Carl and his siblings are more relaxed, and the room is filled with a sense of unity and warmth. Cameron sits with them, joining in the conversation and enjoying the family's company.
Carl
(Gratefully)
This has been great. Thanks for letting me come back and catch up.
Fiona
(Grinning)
Anytime, Carl. We're family. That means we're stuck with each other.
Cameron
(Smiling)
Looks like you've got a lot of support here. And that's what matters.
As the night winds down, Carl feels a renewed sense of belonging and connection. Cameron watches, satisfied with the outcome of their visit. The Gallagher family's love and resilience shine through, and Carl leaves feeling more at peace than he has in a long time.
