What's Next?

Sterling

I exhaled a low breath as my eyes focused on the road in front of me. I had just finished a session with Dr. Dixon and decided to take his advice. He suggested that since we've been able to work through the fear I have about having children, that I should go and pay a visit to my mother's grave.

Even with everything that's gone on, we still managed to make good progress. The thought of getting Isabelle pregnant was something that no longer triggered me. I didn't feel myself shutting down anymore at the mention of having any child and to be honest, the thought of my family has become something that I truly want.

In Dr. Dixon's eyes, I've significantly improved and we've cut down on how many times I need to go monthly. Not that I intend to completely stop any time soon, Dr. Dixon has helped me a lot and I know there's some work that still needs to be done for me.

The cemetery came into view and I drove over to my mother's headstone. I proceeded to shut off the Lamborghini and grabbed the flowers I had bought. Then, I got out of the car and walked over to the stone where she was at.

"Hi mom."

I always feel a little awkward coming here. I never know what to say and I can't even attempt to talk about any memories with her because we don't have any. All I've gotten to know are the pictures in my grandparent's house and the stories they share.

Taking in a deep cleansing breath, I let it out as I knelt down and placed the flowers down. "I know that we didn't get the chance to have a full relationship mom. I just want you to know that I love you and I'm forever grateful that you gave me the chance of having a life. I just hope that I've been able to make you proud."

The sound of a car door closing pulled my attention away from the headstone. I glanced back and noticed my grandparents, Trish and Peter, making their way over to me. They had come here because I asked them to.

I always feel awkward visiting her alone, so I like to have them come because they can tell me stories and share their memories. It helps me feel a little more connected to her.

"There he is." My grandma smiled as she opened her arms and gave me a hug. "How are you?"

"I'm good." I responded to her and when she released me I turned my attention to my grandpa. "How have you guys been?"

It's been hard to keep up with them lately because of everything that's been happening. However things have finally calmed down and I can make sure I get my visits in. I know that they must miss them, I know I do.

"We're pretty good." My grandpa answered.

We stood here for a moment and took some time to catch up. They were relieved that everything with the Tunts was finally over and that I could be happy with no interruptions. They were also happy to hear about the progress that I had made with Dr. Dixon and they told me they were excited to see what the future holds for me.

Some silence had settled in and we all looked at my mom's grave. My grandma was the first to give her attention back to me. "You know, she'd be so happy to see the man you've become."

My eyes locked with hers as I responded. "Thank you."

I know that she's telling me the truth. She knew my mom better than anyone, she would be the one to know how my mom would feel about how I've grown up.

"You're a good man Sterling." My grandpa chimed in. "We're so lucky to be able to be here for every important moment of your life."

"And I'm lucky to have you both here with me."

"So, what's next?" My grandma questioned me. "Surely a man as busy as you must have his next adventure already planned out."

"Well, the next step is my promotion." I answered.

My father felt that it was finally time to give me the President spot of Tipton Enterprises. With our main enemy handled, there was no reason to wait anymore. So we've planned it all out and it will be taking place a week from tomorrow.

"And then…" A smile spread across my lips. "And then it'll be wedding planning next."