**3 years ago**
"Talk to me Christian"
"I'm fine, Ana. There's nothing to worry about. It's all just… business stuff. Shit you don't need to involve yourself in"
"Bullshit. Christian, I feel like you're miles away, even when you're sitting right across from me. I know business has been rough recently, but I feel like…. I feel so disconnected right now. You won't even talk to me. The kids miss you. You're hardly home. *I* miss you. We haven't made love for almost a week. That's unheard of for you!" Ana jokes gently.
Christian rubbed the bridge of his nose. "I'm sorry."
"You keep apologizing, but nothing is changing. Do you… do you need to see Flynn?"
"Oh fuck Flynn, I'm fine. I don't need to line that quack's pockets with more of my money than I already have."
"But Christian…"
"Leave it, Ana. It's fine. It'll be okay. I just need… I just need some time." He placates her with a kiss on her lips, hands cupping her face and looking into her eyes. She is unable to read his expression, but his eyes are dark, clouded and troubled. She presses her forehead to his. "I'm just worried about you."
"I'm fine, Ana. Please don't worry."
And he was gone. Again.
Ana saw Flynn on her own. The good doctor hadn't seen either of them for some time, but was able to help Ana connect with her feelings of helplessness. Ana decided to do some digging. Even though she was not well versed in the world of big business, she hoped to at least get a feel for what he was dealing with. Help him… somehow… with whatever was troubling him enough to keep it from her.
**Present**
Ana rounded a corner. Her breathing was beginning to settle into a comfortable rhythm. She felt like she could go faster, but kept her pace measured and comfortable. Her ipod blared…. A song she picked specifically for the pace. She marvelled at the number of people lining the streets, cheering and hollering, urging their loved ones on. She felt good. Strong, confident, like she could keep going for hours and hours.
Good. She smirked to herself. You're gonna need that energy. Let's keep it going!
The first hill was just ahead. She tucked her arms in, breathing purposefully, climbing the first of many inclines along the route.
