Hey guys thanks for all of the follows. I first want to address the comments about this story being similar to one called a "path unknown". First and foremost I never intentionally meant to copy the author's idea. Second I find it very hurtful that people leave such rude comments about my story. So I now considering just leaving the story behind and give up on it entirely. It's comments like those that make me not want to write stories. So I hope that you guys like this chapter. Even if it is the last.

As I turn my head to see who our unknown guests are, I couldn't help but have a slight fear of who is may be. But when I see their face, all the fear that I once felt disappeared. Now the only thing that seemed to remain was happiness and joy. The two people that had welcomed me with open arms, and to this day I still love them as though they were my own parents. I couldn't stop smiling when I saw Grace and Carrick make their way towards Mia and I.

Ana: Oh my god! This is a surprise.

Grace quickened her pace towards Ana, and opened her arms inviting her for a hug.

Grace: I hope you don't mind. When Mia told us you were back in town, and that you were having dinner, we just had to see you.

I couldn't stop smiling. Just seeing them, brought her more happiness and joy than she could ever imagine. After 5 years she was finally reunited with the people that she considered family.

Ana: No of course. I've missed you.

Carrick: Oh not as much as we've miss you.

Ana and Carrick exchange hugs. All four of them take their seats at the table. Constantly smiling at one another. Grace removes her coat and places it behind her chair and takes her seat between Ana and Mia, and opposite Carrick. An takes one more glance and Grace before she turns to face Carrick.

Ana: So how have you been?

Carrick: Oh the usual. I've been busy with work and so has Grace at the hospital.

Ana: I heard about your award. Congratulations!

Grace: Thank you, and thank you for the flowers you sent. They were absolutely beautiful.

Ana: Oh I'm glad that you liked them. I felt so bad that I couldn't make it to the ceremony. But no one is more deserving of such an award as you Grace. Seeing the work that you do. You're really an inspiration.

Grace smiles, grateful for the complement. But more importantly she was happy that she got to see Ana, after so many years. A woman that she still considers to be a daughter.

Carrick: You must be very proud of yourself Ana. Being the CEP of a big publishing company.

Grace: Yes how is that going?

Ana: It's going very well actually. I admit that when I first started I was a little bit worried and overwhelmed. But now things are going really well.

Mia: I'll say. When I went into your office you seem to have the place running like a well oiled machine.

Ana smiles at Mia. Slightly embarrassed but grateful for the complement. Never in her wildest dreams did she think she would be where she would be.

Grace: Well we couldn't be happier for you.

Carrick: Oh there's David. Excuse me for a minute ladies.

All three of them nod, knowing that Carrick needed to say his hellos and exchange greetings. One thing that Ana had learned ever since becoming CEO was that it was always important to say hello to people related to her work. Even when she didn't want to, having good manners is a key part to success. Especially in the world of business.

Grace: I'm so glad that we got to see you. Which reminds me.

Grace goes into her purse and produces a fancy, and most likely somewhat expensive envelope.

Grace: The Coping together Fundraising Event is this week and I have an invitation for you right here.

Ana: Oh Grace, that's so nice and sweet of you to think of me. But I don't think that I can go.

Mia: Please Ana. We miss having you there. No one has even come close to the amount for the first dance auction for what Christ….

Mia stops, and catches herself before she says his name. Before I would have had to fight back the tears, and felt my heart tear in half. But even with time, the pain and heartache is still there. The only progress that I have made is that I no longer start to cry. But the memories, and pain are still there. Ever so present by just the mention of his name.

Mia: Sorry

It's ok Mia. I'm fine.

Ana looks to Grace, knowing that she would be the best person to answer such a question.

Ana: How is he?

Mia: To be honest. We don't really know.

Grace: We hardly see him. The only times we do are at public family functions. It's like he went back to the old Christian. Before he met you.

Mia: I'll say. Every time I try to visit him at Escala, or at his office he always seems to be so busy. He practically tries to get me to leave as soon as possible.

Ana: I'm sure he's busy with Grey House. He does seem to run the world after all.

All three of them share a slight laugh. Mia's phone rings. Ana and Grace look at her, to see who was calling.

Mia: It's work. Excuse me I have to take this.

Mia answers her phone and leaves the room, to head outside. Ana and Grace are left alone in the room.

Grace: I'm sorry about that.

Ana: Grace it's ok really

Grace: Not just for that. For what happened.

Ana takes Grace's hand in hers, trying to ease the pain Grace was feeling. Concerned that for so long Grace had been feeling regret for something that she had no reason or cause. This woman welcomed her with open arms. Instead of going to her son she chose to stay and comfort Ana. The last thing that Grace should feel is regret.

Ana: I know. It's not your fault in any way. I'm just glad that we can still be friends.

Grace: We are so much more than that. Ana I still and will always think of you as my daughter. No matter what.

The only thing that Ana could do was smile. Grateful for not only her words, but for her constant support.

Ana: I appreciate that.

Carrick and Mia both return to the table and the four of them enjoy their evening. When the night was coming to a close, they all gathered outside waiting for the valet to bring their cars.

Ana: It was really great to see you guys, and thank you for an amazing dinner.

Carrick: You're most welcome Ana. We hope to see you at the Coping Together Event. Everyone is going to be there.

Ana: I don't know. I'll have to check my schedule. But you can be assured that I will definitely be making a donation.

Carrick: Well we hope that you make it.

Ana: I will try my best

Ana's car is the first to arrive. She gives each of them one final hug before heading home.

Ana: Goodnight!

Grace, Carrick, and Mia: Goodnight!

The entire ride home Ana couldn't stop smiling. For the first time in a long time she was truly happy. She was sure of her choice in returning. All of the regrets that she had about her choice were gone. Now, she had to make a decision about going to Coping Together. As soon as Ana walks through the door into her apartment she receives a text from Mia.

Mia: Dress shopping? I won't take no for an answer.

Ana couldn't help but laugh. If anything she should have known that Mia does everything she can to ensure that she gets her way.