AN: Hello lovelies! I'm super sorry for posting a few days later. This past week has been quite chaotic for me. I celebrated my birthday on the 9th, and then got sick afterwards. On top of that I had an interview on Wednesday, and work has been super crazy this whole week. To make sure this doesn't happen again, I've decide to change my posting date to Sundays. It makes it easier for me to get my chapters done without any interruptions since I have so much happening in the week. And with that being said, I give you Chapter 3! Enjoy! xoxoxox
All rights privileges go to E.L. James.
APOV
I always find myself somewhat mentally exhausted after dealing with Christian.
"And also turned on" my subconscious offers. I choose to ignore her. Although, he did look good in that suit.
While I admire his love and protectiveness of Ava, sometimes it can be a bit too much.. I mean come on, appendicitis? How did he jump to that conclusion? A reasonable adult would see a four year old throwing up as a sign she ate too much. Not that she has a bacterial infection. Then again, I remind myself that Christian can be the complete opposite of reasonable. The man has serious control issues, I feel bad for any woman he chooses to settle down with.
The rest of my afternoon goes by smoothly. My kids are able to finish up their nap time without any other issues. Before I know it, it's time to get the students ready to go home. Most of the children are excited to leave for the day. So excited in fact, that I have to remind them to clean up their messes. After a few rounds of the "Clean-Up" song, my classroom is neat and tidy. And my students are lined up to go.
Since the school year began just a little over two weeks ago, I'm still in the process of getting to know my parents. I make sure to stand in front with my students and personal speak with their parents, just so I can build relationships with them. Some of the kids have nannies that pick them up, but I still make sure to pass along any important info.
As I go to stand out front, I bump into into one of my co-workers, Carol Fitzgerald. Carol and I have known each other since college. She teaches 1st grade; her classroom is down the hall from mine. She's a great teacher, always finding ways to engage her students. She's definitely a favorite with the parents.
Carol comes and stands next to me as I watch some of my students take off with their parents.
"Hey Bananas, I heard the Adonis was here today." She winks at me.
I roll my eyes at Carol's nickname for Christian. She's always had a thing for him, like many clueless women who fall for his charms.
"Ugh Carol, what do you see in him?"
"Well from the way his pants fit, I'd say about eight or nine inches" she responds cheekily. Did I mention she has no filter?
"Carol! There are tiny ears here!" I say. God forbid, one of our students hears some of the things Carol says and then repeats it to their parents.
"Oh come off it Ana, they don't know what I'm saying. No why won't you admit that that man screams sex!" I get it, really. He's incredibly attractive, but he has the worst personality.
"Carol, not everything is about sex. You need more for a relationship work" Like knowing how to talk to each other?
"Oh please Ana, relationships are overrated. Sex is the bee's knees! It's easy for you to pass it up because you're like the Virgin Mary over there." I feel my cheeks heating up in embarrassment.
"You and I both know that I'm far from a virgin" And it's true, I had one serious boyfriend all through college and grad school. Colton Davis. Things were great until he let his wandering penis get him into trouble. And the sad thing is that, I had absolutely no idea what he was up to. It wasn't until one of my neighbors asked me how my my boyfriend's sisters were that I got suspicious. Colton didn't have any sisters, but what he did have were a bunch of sluts he brought to our apartment.
"I know" Carol says, "But it was just one guy and he was so lousy it almost doesn't count" Another great point she brings up. Colton wasn't the best in bed, in fact he was downright selfish. The entire 5 years that we dated, I don't think I ever had an orgasm. I just remember faking it most of the time so that he would get off me.
"I'm telling you Ana, you don't know what you're missing. All you need is that Daddy Warbucks of yours to give you a nice good f-"
"Carol! Tiny ears!" I know Carol has no filter but can't she at least be careful around our kids?
Right at that moment, one of my students parents make their way over to me. Jack Hyde. His daughter, Trixie is in my class and she's a pleasure. Mr. Hyde raises her on his own after his wife died in labor. Poor thing, I know what it's like to never have met a parent. My biological father died the day after I was born; he only ever held me once. And while my step-father Ray, was the best father any girl could ask for, I always wonder what life with my biological dad would've been like.
"Ms. Steele" Jack says to me, "It's good to see you"
"It's good to see you too Mr. Hyde, how are things?" I see his cheeks redden slightly.
"Oh please call me Jack. And things have been good. My sister-in-law is in town, which is great. Just added her to Trixie's pick up list." That'll be so good for Trixie, she really needs to have a positive mother figure in her life.
"Oh that's great, I hope to meet her soon" Mr. Hyde blushes again
"Yeah definitely, I'll bring her tomorrow. I was actually wondering..um..if, if you would like to get a cup of coffee one day. I can have Ronnie watch Trixie and we can hang out for a bit" he gives a shy smile.
Jack is a great dad, Trixie adores him. And he's always been very sweet whenever he comes to pick her up. But I don't date parents. The school administration doesn't have a policy on it, but it would be irresponsible of me to do so. I wouldn't want parents getting the wrong impression of me.
"I would love to, it's just I don't think the administration would like it very much. I'm sure you can understand" I hate turning down such a sweet man but I would hate to jeopardize my career.
Jack looks disappointed but he recovers quickly.
"It's fine" he says "I understand. Maybe some other time" He gives me a sweet smile and grabs Trixie's hand.
"We'll see you tomorrow Ms. Steele" he says and turns to walk away.
"Bye Ms. Steele!" Trixie turns around and waves her tiny hand at me. I wave back and watch them walk away.
"Gosh he's creepy" Carol says coming up behind me. I roll my eyes, Carol thinks everyone is creepy.
"He's not creepy Carol, he's lonely. And I feel like a bitch for rejecting him"
"Don't. The last thing you want is some prissy parent accusing you of playing favorites because you had coffee with someone's dad. It'll get messy"
She's right, I know it. I just feel bad knowing how lonely Jack is. He's a good person and he deserves happiness.
About twenty minutes later, all of my students have left. Carol's students all left a little before mine so she went home. I head back to my classroom and check to make sure I have everything. I look at my phone to see if Christian called; nothing. Maybe it was something serious with Ava. I grab all my stuff and head out to my car. Some days I stay after school to look over lesson plans, but I actually got some work done earlier in the week.
Now I get to go home and relax. Tonight's Thursday, which means a new episode of The Big Bang Theory. I sigh sadly at the thought of not watching it with Ava; it's our Thursday routine. I go over to Kate & Elliot's place for dinner. And then I snuggle up on the couch and watch the show with Ava. She loves it and I treasure the time we have together. I love being an aunt; Ava is a great kid and I'm always happy to spend time with her.
It's around 6:30 when I realize Christian still hasn't called. Now I'm super worried. As much of a dick as he is, I know Christian is really big on keeping his word. I know he would call unless there was something keeping him. Maybe something is really wrong with Ava! But then again, he would too if that were the case. I decide to put my worrying aside and just call Christian. I'm probably overreacting. I pick up my phone and dial him.
CPOV
The ride to Escala is fairly short, at least it happens to feel that way. I manage to send a message to my sub, Veronica, letting her know that I'll have to cancel our plans for the night. I was very much looking forward to our evening together, but my family will always come before BDSM.
Having fixed the sub problem, I decide to give Ana a call. I look at the phone and check the time. 3:30. Ana should be dismissing her students right about now. Before I even get to dial her number, I see Ros' name flash across the screen. This better be good.
"Grey"
Ros notifies me that she was able to get us the upper hand on a deal we've been negotiating with some Russians. This news makes me extremely happy. We've been in negotiation for weeks and those arrogant pricks have been jerking us around the whole time. I will be beyond relieved when this thing is over.
"It give it until the end of the week before he caves boss" Ros says "This Ivanov guy looks like he's getting worn out . He might sign just to be over with it"
"I don't care why he signs Ros, I just care that he does. I trust you'll be able to handle this?"
"Of course I can Christian. This guy is a guppie compared to the other fish I've gone up against it. I'll take care of it" That's why I hired her.
I finish up my conversation with Ros just as we drive to Escala. Ava jumps out the car and rushes to the elevator. She's got a suspicious look on her face. When we get up to the apartment, Ava takes off towards the kitchen. I know exactly what she's up to; she thinks she can weasel Mrs. Jones into making her some cookies, like she does whenever Ava visits. Too bad I texted Gail on the elevator ride up.
After checking in with Gail about dinner and confirming Ava's special diet for the night, I make my way to my office. Since Ava is with me, I decide to get some work done before dinner so that we can spend some time together before her bedtime. I fall into an easy stride, and manage to respond to a few emails. I even manage to call Elliot and tell him what happened with Ava. He responds calmly, while Kate vows to come home tomorrow.
"Don't pay her any mind Christian, she's just in Momma Bear mode right now." he says.
"Christian, I mean it. We'll be home tomorrow. Tell Ava I love her and Mommy will be there soon." I hear loud rustling in the background,
"Elliot what the hell is she doing?" I ask.
"Getting our suitcases. But I'm not going anywhere. Ava's fine. Mom checked her out. It's stupid to cut a trip short because of a tummy ache. We're not coming home tomorrow Christian."
"Are you sure, because Kate seems pretty serious" I hear more noise in the background.
"Chris, trust me. I'll handle this" he says. I finish up my call with him and get back to work. Soon after, I hear my phone vibrating. Ana's name flashes across the screen. Shit! I forgot to call her when we left the hospital. I pick up right away.
"Ana!"
"Jesus Christian, you had me worried. It was getting late and I hadn't heard from you. Is everything okay with Ava?" Now I feel like a dick, she sounds a little frantic.
"Ana, relax. I got caught up with work and some personal stuff. And I forgot to call. Ava is fine, you were right. It's just a tummy ache" I hear Ana let out a sigh of relief.
"Well that's good. Did you finally get into contact with Kate & Elliot?"
I tell her about the conversation I had with them earlier, and she snorts when I tell her about Kate.
"Kate's always been protective but with Ava she's ruthless. She's definitely a Momma Bear" Ana says.
"Well Elliot says they're not leaving tomorrow so we'll see who wins that argument" Ana giggles and I swear that my heart skips a beat. She even laughs beautifully! What is it with this woman?
Just then Ava busts open the door to my office.
"Uncle Cwistian, Mrs. Jones said dinner is ready"
"Okay sweetie, let me finish talking to Auntie Nana and I'll be right there"
Ava's face lights up. "Auntie Nana? I want to talk to her!"
I pass the phone to her and watch her excitedly tell Ana about her trip to the hospital. She tells her about the sweets that Jeremy boy gave her and how that made her tummy hurt. Which reminds me, I need to look into this Jeremy kid. He obviously knows what he's doing; using snacks to butter up my niece. I won't have it.
"Auntie Nana, are you coming over to watch The Big Bang Theory?" My ears perk up.
I can't hear what Ana says but apparently it upsets Ava.
"But Auntie Nana, we watch it every week. And Penny and Leonard are getting mawied this week!"
Who are Penny and Leonard and why does my niece care about their wedding?
Suddenly Ava starts to jump up and down.
"Yay! Auntie Nana is coming over!" she says to me and tosses me my phone before she skips off.
"Ava, hello?" I hear Ana on the other line.
"No it's me. I guess you heard the news. I'll be over in 30 minutes."
"That's great. Ava kept mentioning how she wanted to watch the show with you. She said you guys do it every week?"
"Yea, it's sort of our routine. Just so you know, I'm only coming over for Ava, so no funny business mister."
" I promise Ms. Steele, I'll be on my best behavior" she chuckles and again my breath hitches in my throat.
"Alright well I'll see you soon" and she hangs up.
I fist pump and let out a "whoo" noise. Ana is going to be in my apartment. And it's all thanks to Ava. I really have to get this kid an amazing Christmas present this year. I try to calm myself but the thought of her coming over has me somewhat jittery. I decide to sit with Ava and have a chat, in order to calm my nerves.
"So, Ava. Tell me about this Jeremy kid."
APOV
I can't believe that I'm actually driving to Christian's apartment. I remind myself that this is only for Ava, and no matter what he tries, I won't fall for any of Christians trick. Within twenty minutes, I arrive at his apartment building. Jeez! It's huge! He can't possibly live her, it looks like an office building!
I notify the front desk that I'm going to Christian Grey's apartment. Just then Christian's right hand man Taylor comes, down to escort me. I've always admired him. He's one of the few people I know who can handle Christian. What I would give to know all his secrets.
When I enter the apartment, I see a blur of blonde whiz by me before I'm knocked over by Ava.
"Auntie Nana you're here!" she shouts. I pick her up and head into the living room.
"I am! How are you feeling sweetie? How's your stomach?"
"It feels better" she tells me. "Mrs. Jones made me some soup and now it doesn't twist or turn"
"Well that's good, are you ready to watch Big Bang Theory?"
Ava lets out a "Woohoo" and jumps down from my arms. She pulls me into the living room where Christian is sitting on the couch. He's wearing sweats that hang from his hips so enticingly. And who knew someone could make a plain white tee looks so good? Oh boy, this is going to be a long night.
Christian constantly asks questions while watching the show. He seems really interested in Sheldon's character which doesn't surprise me at all. They're both control freaks, of course he would connect with him. Ava and I shush him a few times for talking during Penny and Leonard's wedding. Ava even threatens to put him in time out if he's not quiet. She looks to me for assurance.
"Right Auntie Nana?" I try so hard not to laugh. Ava takes her shows very seriously.
By the end of the episode, Ava is clearly ready for bed. Her eyes start to droop, and the poor thing tries to fight it. She didn't get a nap, so no wonder she's so tired. Christian leads the way as I carry her upstairs to one of the guest rooms. She begs Christian to read her a story and I decide to go use the bathroom. I leave the room in search of one, when I see another room at the end of the hall. Curiosity gets the better of me and I walk towards it. Reaching for the doorknob, I notice that it's unlocked. Without hesitating I open the door, and take in the sight before me. This is definitely not a bathroom.
The walls are a dull red. Almost like a deep wine red. It's strangely comforting. Along the walls are an assortment of whips and paddles. Is this some sort of torture room? I can feel my heart rate quicken as I look around. There's a large four poster bed in the middle of the room. It's draped in satin sheets, the same color as the walls. As I get closer to the bed, I realize there are straps meant to restrain someone to it. I feel my heart drop to my stomach. This is a torture room! Why would Christian have a room like this in his apartment? Is he into this stuff? My mind is spinning with thoughts when I hear Christian's deep voice from the door.
"Ana what are you doing in here?" He stares at me stone faced. But his eyes are intense. I feel as if he's staring through me.
"What is all this Christian? The whips, the restraints? What is all this shit?" I can feel my voice getting louder "Tell me!"
"First, I don't think we should continue this conversation in here. And secondly, don't shout. Ava is sleeping" He reaches his hand out for me to take it. I hesitate and he takes notice.
"I'm not going to hurt you Ana, just trust me."
"Why should I? You have all this torture crap in here. Is it even safe for Ava to be here?" I'm sure Kate and Elliot don't know about this room. And I'm positive, they wouldn't want her near any of this.
I see a look of shock flicker across his face; it's as if I've slapped him with my words.
"You think I would harm my niece?" His voice is menacingly quiet.
"I don't know what to think Christian. I just know that this isn't some embarrassing hobby of yours that I came across."
He sighs and takes a deep breath, almost bracing himself. Then he rubs his hands over his face. It's as if he's torn over something.
"Ana, have you ever heard of BDSM?" What? He's into that shit too? A few years ago, when I was living with Carol, I came home one day to find her tied up with a ball gag in her mouth and some strange man hitting her with a whip. It's scared the shit out of me and I almost called the cops thinking he was a robber beating my roommate. Turns out, Carol was into BDSM and that guy was an acquaintance of hers. Apparently the whole thing was consensual. I told her I didn't want to know anything else, and that was the last of it. Needless to say, I decided that living with Carol wasn't for me anymore.
"You're, you're into that shit?" My voice is barely above a whisper.
A look of surprise comes across his face.
"You actually know what I'm talking about?" he says. I make note of the slight tone of optimism in his voice. Is he hoping to do this shit to me? I decide that I can't do this right now. If Christian is into this shit, then I'm not sure if I can stomach being around him. My mind is spinning right now, I need to get out of here.
"I'm going home" I say abruptly and I rush past Christian as I leave the room.
"Ana wait, please let me explain" he says pleadingly. I can't sit and listen to any explanation, I need to go. Just when I thought he was an okay guy, I find out he's some sexual deviant. This is not how I figured my night would go.
"Christian please, I need to go. This is just too much for me" And without looking back, I grab my things and get on the elevator.
I hope you guys liked it. I told you some shit would go down. So now Ana knows Christian's secret, what do you think should happen next? Leave a review and let me know!
xoxoxo- Rouge