CPOV

Every Saturday evening my parents hold a family dinner. Usually I am busy beating the shit out of a sub and therefore tell them about some important fake business meeting in order to stay away. But this time it is different and for the first time in awhile I am really excited to show up at the dinner. I tell Elena to hurry up but she replies that she's got to go to a really important meeting and therefore wants me to excuse her as she won't be able to go with me. I sigh and get myself ready.

My mother is already standing on the threshold, waiting for me, as I arrive at Bellevue. I kiss her on her cheek and go inside. Grace tells me to go ahead into the living room before she takes a turn into the kitchen to prepare something. I can already hear Mia loudly describing the details of her life in Paris. A smile forms on my lips and I have to think about the first time that my parents brought Mia home. Seeing her lying in her pink blanket in her crib I instantly knew she would never cause me any harm. In return I tried to protect her for all of my life. And no matter how annoying she can be sometimes, I love her endlessly.

I enter the room and Mia is screaming my name, jumps up and runs towards me. I embrace her tightly and kiss her on the forehead.

"What's up my little cheeky monkey, you are back? Did you actually work over there or did you just eat frogs and snails all day?" I tease her.

"I just told everyone that I've concluded my apprenticeship and want to open my own restaurant here soon. And have a guess who will be the lucky one who may lend me the needed money," she explains.

I chuckle, raise my arm up high and start to jump on the spot.

"Oh pretty please, can I give you the money? You won't even have to pay it back! Ple-e-ease!" I whine. She laughs and nods her head.

"Thank you!", she whispers in my ear as she kisses me on the cheek.

My mother tells us to take our seats and we comply. She's smiling like the Cheshire Cat as she looks through the room.

"How much I love it when all my dears are here. Even though I wouldn't be mad if we were three more!" she says and winks at us.

"Alright mom, I'll get you a daughter in law at the Coping Together event!" Elliot tells her sincerely.

"Not again," Mia groans.

"Hey, it's not my fault so many ladies have the hots for me. And I also have to take care of Christian's piece of cake since he is off the market!" he replies and starts laughing like a hyena. I shake my head.

"Fuck off, Lelliot!" I say irritated.

"Christian!" my mother interjects with a stern look.

„Pardon my French" I reply looking down at my hands.

Afterwards we chat about Mia's time in France, Elliot's latest projects and my company. I take delight in sitting with my family at the table. It reminds me of Ana and the kids. The thought leaves behind a bitter taste and I try to focus once again on the conversation. I really didn't manage to keep Ana or the boys out of my head just for a single day since I've talked to John. But I still have got some days left to manage it!

When the dinner is over, I say goodbye to everyone and promise to visit them again soon. My father accompanies me to the door and holds out his hand for a goodbye. "I am so proud of you, boy. Take a look at what has become of you!" he says apppreciatingly and claps me on my shoulder. I take a look at him and even though he already told me many times that he is proud of me, this time it touches me way more. I thank him and walk to my car.

Despite the fact I said not to get used to bonus chapters, there's this one reader, who didn't give in, so ... just this one time it's my turn to give in. But just because I think this is the last chapter describing the characters miserable life after the separation and from the next chapter on, there's a little bit more action. AND the next chapter will be called "The Reunion" if you know what I mean *wink*wink* ;)

Well, now all of you like John? Should I really believe you? ;D lol I hope, that you all had at least a smile on your face, then I would have succeeded making up for the sad previous chapters.

mya4snape - He will eventually ... but you have to wait, because I don't think you all hate Elena as much as I want you to ;D. There are several other scenes with her ;)

Westie80 - I hope you had to giggle, this was my intention! ;)

Pielietje - Not a single day! ;)

Jrzgl43 - I think so too ;)

Christian618 - One session more and he will reach his goal ;)

Triple-yay-Guest - Thanks for your review! :)