Chapter:6 Coping Together Part 2

Disclaimer: Fifty Shades of Grey belongs to EL James

Thank you for reading and following my take on our favorite story.

Covering the phone with one hand I step to the side from in front of the glass door out of the view of the study group, and giddily I go into a happy dance.

"Anastasia. Are you still there?" I can hear what sounds like shuffling in the background, but I can't be guaranteed that she's still on the line.

"Yes. Sorry about that. I'm with a study group at a Starbucks and it's pretty noisy so I was searching for a quiet place to take the call." I squeeze my eyes close, distorting my face as I mentally kick myself for coming up with such a lame response.

"From what I know of Starbucks that would make it the restroom." I'm not buying her explanation, so I decide to have some fun at her expense. Listening to her breathing pattern, I think I have some idea what she was up to and I'd be lying if I said it didn't make me happy as hell. "So are you in the restroom Anastasia?" I imagine her face a deep shade of red.

Ugh, he's toying with me, but I'm not going to be such an easy target this time. "And what if I am?" Boo-yah, take that. Mentally I hi-five myself on my sassy comeback, but when I hear his low chuckle, I know my celebration was premature.

"I'd say the easier for you to clean up when we're done." It's not fair he's too good at this. But I can't engage him in a battle of innuendos. In a few minutes, I will be walking in back in front of a group of co-eds and the last thing I want is to look as if I was participating in a session of phone sex. Speaking of said group, I need to get back.

"Christian, I'm going to need to get back to my study group." I come to the conclusion that the only way for me to win the battle of innuendo with Christian Grey is to disengage.

"By all means Ms. Steel, I'll be quick." I can't decide if "quick" is meant to be a double entendre or should I get my mind out the gutter and take the statement at face value. After all, I highly doubt that Christian Grey is a minute man. "As I suspected my mother was beyond excited when I told her about our fortuitous meeting, so she is anxious to see you with her own eyes. And as luck would have it, The Coping Together Gala is at the end of the week so she would like for you to attend. It would be a full circle moment."

"Oh my God. I would love to. Thank her for me please."

"Your presence will be thanks enough."

"It's Saturday, right? I can..."

"Anastasia," he says interrupting me.

"No. It's on a Thursday this year. In the past, it was on a Saturday, but my parents have been experimenting with the day. Does it pose a problem for you?"

"Well..." I pause to rethink what I'm about to say. "You know what, I'm still good to go. I can rearrange my schedule. Aside from seeing your mother again, it'll be great to see kids from the center.

"I'm sorry to disappoint you. But the kids from the center no longer attend the Gala. Your group was the last, it was too emotional for my mother" Suddenly the mood turns serious. I can really be a Debbie Downer sometimes. I need to liven things up again. I prefer playful Christian to somber Christian.

"Still I'm excited." Okay, that might have been too much livening up, too much pitch in the voice. "By the way Christian, how did you get my number?" In the spur of the moment, I decide to change tactic and throw him a softball question. And almost immediately it works, because I can feel the smirk on his face if can't see it.

"Let me remind you, of the Ways and Means Committee. I have the means. And people find a way. And sometimes I'm a committee of one, with the means and the ways. Anything else you would like to know?" He is cocky and I know I set it in motion, but I would love to knock the smugness out of his voice.

"No. I think you answered my question pretty thoroughly." Kate was right. She's always right. I hate her too.

"Now that we have that settled, I will see you on Thursday. I'm surprised you didn't ask, but Katherine is invited. It isn't my preference, but I had a sneaking feeling you two traveled in pairs. However, perhaps my assumption was just that an assumption."

"No, you were right. I didn't ask because I thought it was a given."

"Ms. Steele." I sense the call coming to an end and all I can do is call her name in hopes of prolonging it.

"Mr. Grey. I'll see you Thursday." Is all she says and my cock twitches. A Thursday has never held so much promise.

Normally, I'm the one to end a call because I have to have the last word. But with Anastasia, it's the exact opposite, I could listen to her voice forever. That's it. I'll record it when she comes to the Gala.

I toss the phone on the desk in my home office. What a dumb fucking idea. What am I'm 15? How does this woman manage to make me feel like a bumbling, snotty nose idiot? I'm fucking Barney around her, maybe now I'll give the poor sap a break. Leaning back in my chair, I cover my eyes with my forearm. The reason I needed tonight so badly and it turn out to be a colossal failure. Sadie just didn't do it for me. Sure she was pretty of the face with a body made for Playboy. But as soon as she stepped out of the elevator and I saw her blonde hair, I'd known I'd made a mistake. I hadn't developed a sudden fondness for blondes, I was attracted to one blonde.

Against my better judgement, I took her on as sub right then and there. But after taking her to my playroom and turning her ass a beautiful shade of red and fucking her just once I ended the contract and sent the young woman on her way. I'd known better, after ending my contract with Elena for the second time I'd only been with one other blonde, Samra Chatsworth.

Samra was my second attempt at a relationship outside of BDSM. On paper, she was my perfect match, the alpha female to my alpha male. She was very successful in her own right, working as a Senior Vice President for one of the leading Hedge Fund Management firms in the country. This was a big deal on two fronts, she was a woman and she was young. But Samra Chatsworth wasn't any young woman, she was nonsense and once you got to know her you understood how she moved up the ranks so quickly. She was the epitome of beauty and brains, with a healthy heaping of cojones added in for good measure. And that was our downfall. We gave it a good go until I was forced to come to terms with two truths; I wanted a woman who was not only submissive in the bedroom but outside and I had a penchant for brunettes.

Granted Sam was more than willing to dabble in BDSM; she found the punishment to be a turn on. But once we crossed the threshold of the playroom she drew a line in the sand making sure I knew where her submission ended. During our time together, Sam never knew I was a Dom. She chalked up my interest in the lifestyle simply as a way for me to indulge my kinky side. Something she wouldn't begrudge me, because in her words "I earned it", after everything I had accomplished. And to her the playroom was an extension of the kinkiness that manifested itself in an over the top show of testosterone and money.

At the end of the day, what she knows or doesn't know isn't of concern to me. She signed an air tight NDA and she knows I will destroy her and anyone close to her if she divulges anything about her time with me. But I don't have to worry about Sam, she's smart and unlike with my former subs, I've remained friendly with her. Primarily because we travel in the same social and professional circles.

The problem that concerns me at the moment is the edge that remains because the blonde bombshell didn't stamp it out. And based on the time registering on my watch it's almost too late to do anything about it that doesn't involve my hand. Sure I could call Elena to get Susannah over, but I don't want to deal with Elena and her inquiring mind. My other option is a club and I haven't been to one of those since I was 21 and I'm not too keen on using one now. After all, that's why I built my own playroom. Fuck, running my hands through my hair isn't helping. I'm no closer to a decision.

I hold my mother responsible for this mess. By the time I'd made back to Seattle, my sense of order had been restored and my control was intact. The flight over in Charlie Tango had served to put much-needed distance between Anastasia and me, literally and figuratively. And I'd known what my mother's reaction would be to the information, yet I called her soon as I arrived at Escala. To say she was elated, isn't descriptive enough. The woman called my pilot, demanding not asking that he get my helicopter ready for a flight to Portland. And when he refused on account that Charlie Tango was in for maintenance she didn't stop there, she made the leap to the GEH jet forcing Stephen to get me on the phone. So on a heated three-way call with an irate Grace Trevelyan Grey and a trembling pilot, I had to make the trek to my parents'. Only when it was abundantly clear that Stephen and I were not going to settle the crazy woman dressed in my mother's clothing, did my father intervene. And it was only when he smartly suggest the upcoming Gala, as the perfect venue for the meeting did my mother have mercy on Stephen and me. Thus fast forward to tonight and my predicament; head spinning and dick throbbing from a simple call with the quiet storm thrusting me into uncharted territory. The one doing the lusting. Fuck this, I've got my answer.

"Taylor. Get the car ready we're going out."

"Ana, look at this thing," Kate says as she ooh and awe at the interior of the limousine Christian sent for us as if it's her first time in one.

"Kate, please. You of all people should not be impressed. Your family utilize limousines all the time."

"Yes, but I've never seen one this decked out. It's like a chariot coming to whisk you away to the ball; the only things missing are the horses and the gold filigree on the doors," she smirks. "But I'll take the hunk behind the wheel in lieu of the horses." And like a groupie she leans forward peers through the privacy glass, bobbing and weaving her head as she tries to get another look at Reynolds behind the steering wheel. "Where does he get these security men? 1-800 dial a hunk," she quips bringing her focus back to me as she cracks up at her own joke.

"I don't know. But I have to agree, so far they've been good looking," I admit.

"So what does the note say?" She asks as she tries to snatch it out of my hands. I have to put the hand with the note above my head to keep it out of her reach at the same time balancing the Harry and David basket on steroid on my lap.

"No," I say giggling at her adolescent behavior.

"If I can't see it, read the damn thing. Even if it's filled with debauchery," she says in a sinister voice rubbing her palms together.

"Really. Debauchery." And I wrinkle my brows at her.

"What can I say? It was a word of the day." She shrugs. "And liked it so shoot me. But not until you read the damn note." And she tries to take me by surprise and lunges for it. However, I telegraph the move and get the note behind my back before she can reach it.

"Chill Kate. I'm going to read it." I tilt my head bringing my hands from behind my back.

Anastasia,

The ride to Seattle will be long, so here are some treats for you to enjoy. And I'm confident you did not eat breakfast so it will provide you needed sustenance. Sorry Charlie Tango was...

"Sorry to interrupt. But what's or who is Charlie Tango?"

"His Helicopter."

"Oh. Excuse me. I'm sorry his helicopter," she says mockingly and I roll my eyes at her. "Rich Bastard." And she falls back into the plush seat of the limousine. "And control freak," she adds when jumps back up.

"Kate, you're from a wealthy family. Why are you carrying on so ridiculously? I'm the poor mouse."

"Yes my daddy is rich, but he's not Richie Rich rich." She grabs for the oversized basket and I let her take it. Relieved to have my lap free.

"Please take it and let me finish the note you begged me to read." I shake the note as if it's a sheet of paper and not card stock before I continue to read.

Sorry, Charlie Tango was not available. Hopefully, the limousine meets your satisfaction. Again eat you have a long day and night ahead of you. Finally share the goodies with Katherine.

Christian Grey

"Here you can have this back," she says handing the basket to me. "The only goodies Katherine wants to share in is some Prosecco and the other goodies of the liquid kind in that well stocked mini bar."

"Kate its 9 am."

"Yeah," she says holding up the chilled bottle and a flute. "Don't blame me. Blame him. If he didn't intend for us to have the alcohol he wouldn't have stocked the mini bar so abundantly and tastefully," she says as she pours her first glass and makes a show of sipping the beverage.

"Okay, Missy go ahead. Don't blame me when you get drunk," I say reaching for the Pierre.

"Don't you worry about me I can handle my liquor. Besides, I gotta feeling before the night is over you will need some of this too." She holds up her flute to me. "Get ready for the ride Cinderella." And she tilts the flute to her lips tossing the rest of it back.

"Here you go," she says snatching the note from the bouquet of more than 12 roses of all color and variety greeting us as we enter the palatial suite. "And it begins," she smirks as she hands the note to me and my eyes go into a familiar position of late and if I keep it up they're going to get stuck there. Grabbing the card from her hand I read it while she continues further into the well-appointed space taking in everything as she goes.

Anastasia,

Welcome to Seattle. Roses aren't very original, but I thought they suited your name. I hope you find the suite to your liking, if not please contact Andria immediately. The master bedroom is set aside for you so please don't let Katherine take it. Caroline Acton and Franco will be arriving at 3 pm to help you and Katherine get ready for the Gala. Finally, I won't be able to meet you at my parents something came up at work. My brother Elliot will do the honors. I will see you at the Gala. Order whatever you want, it's all on me.

Christian Grey

"Kate," I call to her with the note still in my hand.

"Yes."

"He wants me to have the master," I say apologetically

"Of course he does," she says sarcastically.

After settling in we decide to have a light lunch in the suite. Kate needed food to help soak up all the alcohol she drank and I was finally hungry after only nibbling on some of the whatnots in the gift basket.

"So what do you think of all of this? I know you and this is not your style," Kate says digging into her salad of pears, gorgonzola and candied walnut. I ordered a salad too. Mine has orange and grapefruit slices with slivered almonds.

"It's overwhelming, but I can do it for a weekend. I'll go back to being a peasant on Monday."

"Speaking of returning to the real world, I wonder if we're going back in the limousine or Charlie Tango." With gusto, she stabs her fork in her salad for emphasis. She couldn't resist a Charlie Tango reference.

"I don't know Kate. You can ask Christian tonight," I say peering over at her and she looks pensive.

"Are you going to tell him how old you are?" Startled by the question, I put down my fork.

"Where did that come from?"

"And while we're at, are you going to tell him you're a virgin?" Instead of answering my question, she adds another. This one more personal than the last.

"Well, Kate seeing that none of those things are relevant to the Gala, my answer would have to be no. And no," I say and nervously I pull at the band holding my ponytail in place.

"Ana let's get real. Why do you think he invited you?"

"His mother invited me. If it were up to Christian, I doubt I would be here right now. I'd be seeing him at the WSU graduation only."

"Keep telling yourself that. The tricked out limo, this suite, hair and wardrobe. Please. You can't be that naïve not to see what's up."

"Maybe I am, so tell me what's up." I sweep the hair that's now loose up in a bun on top of my head holding it in place with my hand.

"Let me spell it out for you. He's not doing all of this for his mother. Trust me he has an expectation of something in return. Look I know you've probably not been in this situation before, after all, you were with loser Jose." And she waves a hand at me. "I digress. He's a discussion for later. Back to hunky CEO. What I'm alluding to is the boy code. When a guy buys a girl dinner, he expects her to put out. The same principle applies here. The only difference, he has more money to play with. So you better be prepared to answer those tough questions."

I move the hand holding my hair in place on the top of my head as I think of how much I want to share with Kate. Let's be honest I want to sleep with Christian, but I'm not sure he's that into me as Kate thinks. What Jose said keeps ringing in my head as true, that I was nothing more than a flash in the pan for Christian? Kate has asked some valid questions, the same ones I've asked myself but I've yet to come up with the answers.

"If I am to believe what people say about me, it's a forgone conclusion. Everyone thinks I'm much younger than my 17 years anyway, so it's reasonable to believe that Christian sees me the same way; therefore, it's probably not necessary for me to broadcast it. As for my virginity, that's on an as needed basis."

"Fair enough. I mentioned Jose so can we talk about him for 30 seconds before putting him to rest?"

"Sure. At this point I think he's a safer bet than Christian. What do you have on your mind?"

"You. I'm not happy that you talked to him. And I know what you're hiding on your neck. There's that everything I have on my chest. Now I can enjoy myself."

"Really now. I didn't see you having a problem enjoying yourself when you were knocking back those drinks in the limo," I tease her and Kate sticks her tongue out at me. "Grow up Katherine, you're acting like a 17-year-old." Then she starts throwing lettuce my way. "That's so much more mature," I say dodging the small greens. "Do you want me to answer you or are you going to keep throwing food at me?" And I pick up a leaf to throw at her.

"Okay, we're even now," she squeals putting her hand up to block her face.

"Geeze, Kate it's just a lettuce leaf, not a stone. Anyways, back to Jose. I took his call because I promised him I would. But I set him straight about us ever getting together again. He did fill me in on your conversation with him and he's pretty bum about losing both of us as friends."

"He's lucky that's all he's lost. While he disgusts me, I have to admit I felt sorry for him when I saw him the other day. He looked like a dejected puppy. Don't get me wrong it serves him right. I still believe he should be in jail."

"Yeah, Paul Clayton mentioned something to me about Jose's demeanor as he tried to get the scoop."

"I'm sure he did. He wants in your pants."

"Does everything have to lead back to my pants?"

"Yes."

Standing behind me with my hair in his hands, Franco contemplates what to do next and I want to say welcome to my nightmare.

"I see the dark roots so what do you say we take your hair back to the natural color?" He asks tilting his head down to look in my face to gauge my reaction I guess.

"Franco anything you want to do with my hair is fine with me."

"Perfect. With your skin tone I think darker is better. The blonde is washing you out. The dark color will make you look more mature and I gotta feeling you will want to look mature." He winks. "Don't worry, you'll keep your youthful exuberance, but more refined."

About two hours later my hair is returned to better than its natural glory, the brunette locks are shining like a L'Oréal commercial causing me again to question why I went blonde? More importantly why I kept the color all these years?

"I take it you like it."

"I love it," I say as I continue to inspect the tresses in the mirror and I spot Kate walking into the room with two dresses in her hand. She's wearing a beautiful green number that is sheer on the top.

"Kate I like your dress, but I'm surprised you chose the color."

"Yeah green isn't a color I would normally gravitate too, but it's an Elie Saab original. If the billionaire is springing, I'm going to take full advantage. There are some off the rack dresses, but I can buy those myself. My father would never approve of me spending this much money on one dress or twenty for that matter," she says twirling to give us a better look. Kate is so in her element that she's forgotten that I'm clueless about designers. If it's not from the Gap or Target forget it. I have no clue who Elie Saab is.

"I'm sorry Franco, please forgive her. My friend is more gracious than she's letting on."

"Honey please." He waves a hand at me. "I don't blame her. I'd do the same thing. I've known Mr. Grey for years, he takes pride in indulging people. So I'm not going to let you disappoint the man. I'm going to help you spend his money," he says proudly. "Miss Kate you can take those dresses back to Caroline, I going in another direction with Anastasia."

When Franco is done with me, I don't recognize the girl in the mirror. It really feels like I'm in a fairytale the transformation is so dramatic.

"What do you think?"

"I love it. You're a magician."

"No, sweetie. It was all you. You were a jewel that just needed a little shining. Let me walk through what we did. We just added product to your naturally wavy hair, deciding to go with a tamed version of the messy do. A youthful twist to those formal dated styles of the bun, chignon and behind the ear on one side. However, to show off earrings we did tuck the hairs loosely behind both ears. For your makeup, we kept the foundation light because your skin is flawless. We gave you a smoky eye but took it down a notch, because we didn't want to overpower the eyes. And because your eyes are so enticing we wanted to keep the lips natural with a hint of color. So we went with a peach lip ala Jennifer Lopez. As for the dress. The dress mama." He steps back to admire his masterpiece. "Hmmm, what can I say you are wearing this dress? I knew this Alexander McQueen number was the one. It's edgy, youthful and sexy without trying. Like you. Perfecto." He puts his fingers to his lips when he says it. "The wet sequin fabric is hugging your insane body without being restrictive. As a result, it doesn't need a slit for ease of movement or for a show. Not giving it a slit is genius because it adds to the allure. It hints at what's beneath without revealing any of it. The high neckline that mimics a mock turtleneck is also a genius design choice. And just so happened it works to hide your little secret." He lightly squeezes my shoulders and I give him a reassuring smile. "Finally leaving it sleeveless and going with a dark navy blue color keeps it from looking like an Elvira costume." Just as he's finishing up his long winded explanation, a well-dressed man walks in handing Franco a small black box. Stepping aside he waits for Franco to open it.

"What's going on?" I whisper so only Franco can hear me.

"You," he says as he opens the box revealing flawless diamond tier earrings. "These are gifts of Harry Winston for the night at the request of one Mr. Christian Grey. The gentleman over there is the security man that will be your shadow. And I can't help but gasp when Franco brings the beautiful drop diamond earrings to my ears. Kate was right. Again. I am Cinderella, I'll be sad to go back to Ana at midnight.

Soon as we pull up to the winding road there's a sense of nostalgia, but no real memories of my last time taking this same path. Regrettably, the memories aren't rushing back. When we pull up to the circular driveway stopping in front of the impressive mansion, I stare in amazement. Kate's family is the only wealthy family I know so I can't help comparing everything to them and this house trumps the Kavanagh's. And by the way she's gaping, I would say Kate agrees.

"Before you make another one of your money quips. Remember this is his parents' home, not his." I lean over warning her.

To her dismay she doesn't get a chance to respond before Reynolds is opening our door and a very handsome blonde in a tux is standing next to him. Her eyes on fresh meat, Kate rushes to get out the limo before me.

"Anastasia, it's so nice to meet you. I'm Elliot." The stud says pulling Kate into a hug and shamelessly she doesn't correct him.

"Elliot, I'm Anastasia," I say as Reynolds gives me his hand helping me out of the car.

"Oh, I'm so sorry," he apologizes profusely and Kate just smiles. "My brother told me you were blonde so I..."

"So logically you assume the red head must be her," Kate say too sweetly as she interrupts Elliot

"Well, no one has ever accused me of being a genius or logical, Ms." And he picks up her hand.

"Kate Kavanagh," she blushes and Elliot gives her a peck on the hand. "Lucky you, I think geniuses are overrated." I roll my eyes, but neither notice they are too busy flirting so I'm forced to clear my throat to get any attention.

"Anastasia, you don't look anything like my mother's and brother's description," he says pulling me into a bear hug. "Come on let's go inside before my mother expires."

Sure enough, a woman that I assume is Christian's mother mobs me at the door.

"Oh sweetheart I can't believe you're here." she whispers into my hair.

"Mom let the poor girl breathe."

"Yeah mom, you're going to mess up her hair and make- up," a young woman appears joining Elliot's chorus.

"I swear Mia that's the only thing you care about." I open my eyes and behind Mrs. Grey I see a young woman sticking a tongue out at Elliot

"Very grown up," Elliot chastises.

"Quiet you two we have guests," Mrs. Grey warns as she finally releases me. "I'm sorry sweetheart from the moment Christian told me about you I've been dreaming of this moment. I'm sorry," she says when she realize Kate has been standing next to me. "Forgive my manners I'm Dr. Grace Trevelyan Grey. This one use to call me Dr. Grace." She nods her head at me.

"Kate Kavanagh. Please to meet you," Kate says taking her proffered hand.

"You've met my sons. Well, this is my daughter Mia." She formally introduces Kate and me to Mia as she's releasing me from a hug.

"You two look hot, who are you wearing?" Mia ask.

"Mia you sound like the Fashion Police," Elliot chides her.

"You wouldn't know about it, if you didn't watch the show," she smirks.

"It's okay. I think my dress is Alexander McQueen." Kate makes a hissing sound.

"Forget her, she has the fashion savvy of a turtle. Yes, her dress is Alexander McQueen and I'm in Elie Saab." Mia gasp at the information

"I hate my brother. I have on this sack and you guys are in Couture," Mia wines.

"Mia Grey. Your dress is far from a sack and cost way too much as it so stop your complaining," Dr. Grey warns. "Come on everyone lets go into the family room and wait for my husband. Mr. Grey is checking on something on the grounds. He should be back shortly."

"By the way everything looks fabulous Dr. Grey," Kate says

"Thank you. It's a lot of work, but we look forward to the Gala every year." She looks up as a server walks in with a tray of what looks to be water. "Thank you, Gretchen. Please, ladies, help yourself to some water. I've learned not to serve anything alcoholic before the Gala."

"I would love a glass," Kate says. "Good call. I hate to admit it, I had a little too much to drink in the limo."

"Yes. I'd forgotten that Christian sent a limo to pick you, ladies, up," Dr. Grey say. "That works out perfectly, you ladies can come for brunch in the morning and I'm hoping you're staying longer because I want you back for..."

"Slow down dear, you're going to scare the young ladies off." Everyone turns toward the professorial voice that's permeating the room.

"Be quiet Carrick and come meet Anastasia," Dr. Grey says.

"And Kate mom," Elliot says.

"Yes of course and Kate."

"It's okay, I'm not offended. I know this all about Ana," Kate says

"Not for everyone." I hear Elliot murmur as he leans in closer to Kate.

"Anastasia. It is such a pleasure to meet you. You have been the topic of conversation in this family of late. We didn't get a chance to meet that infamous night, but you look well," he says.

"Doesn't she? I'm so happy I can hardly stand it," Mrs. Grey sniffles.

"Mom. You need to get a grip before you mess up your makeup," Mia says.

"It's too late. But Elena promises to help touch me up," Mrs. Grey says.

"Mrs. Grey, Christian told me you stopped bringing the kids. What have you done to replace the experience for them?" I didn't mean to sound defensive, but that's how it comes across. It saddens me that kids will miss out on the opportunity.

"Interesting, I never looked at it from that angle. So I've not thought of a replacement but maybe we should?" Mrs. Grey questions.

"Never mind me, I'm just feeling sentimental," I say

"You know Anastasia I really regret that I didn't get a chance to meet you back then. We would've been fast friends," Mia says.

"Everyone, please call me Ana."

"Only if you call me Grace."

"Oh, I don't think I can do that. Maybe Dr. Grace," I say.

"Fair enough," she says.

"Ana. Christian tells me you'll be graduating with a master and a bachelor. That's quite an accomplishment," Mr. Grey says embarrassing me.

"She's too humble so I'll speak for her. She's been accepted into Harvard's Doctorial program," Kate brags and I elbow her in the side.

"Well let's drink to that." And they all lift a glass to me and I want to disappear."

"I'm sorry, but I can't believe you're in front of me," Dr. Grace says before wrapping an arm around my shoulders pulling me into her side.

"Ana you better get used to it. She's been dreaming of this moment since Saturday, "Elliot smirks.

"We should get to the tent, I see people arriving." Mr. Grey says. "Ana I think my wife wants you to stay back for a moment." I sit back down next to Dr. Grace while Mr. Grey leads everyone else out the room.

"Ana, I wanted to have some time alone with you. Christian shared a little of your past with me and to say it hurt me," she pauses taking my hand in hers, "is putting it mildly. I always saw you as our little girl. So I want you to know that we didn't give up on you, the system failed us all. I checked on you every day until they stopped giving me information. However, no one felt your loss more than Christian. You had such a positive impact on him, I will always be grateful for you. I'm confident in saying that you singled handedly put him on the right course or at least helped him better negotiate our family dynamics. Do you know the first time I was able to touch my son was that night." And her voice breaks and I see the water making its way down her cheeks.

"He hinted at his touch issues, but I'm not sure I understood the significance."

"Christian is a proud young man, but you were one special little girl. And I'm sure he didn't share this either, but Christian wanted to look for you to offer assistance with your education, but from the looks of things it wasn't needed."

"No, he didn't share. Why didn't he look?"

"I told him to let you live your life when in reality I was afraid of opening old wounds. But look at you now." And I'm pulled into yet another hug.

"Grace Grey. According to Mia, I have my work cut out for me so we better get started." She releases me when she hears a voice that to me sounds as cold as ice cubes.

"Elena please you know Mia. She exaggerates. You haven't met Anastasia," Dr. Grey says as she introduces me to a platinum blonde in a sexy black dress that's probably a little too young for her. "Anastasia Steel is very important to this family, especially to Christian." When Dr. Grace mentions Christian's name, I can almost see her claws.

"Grace, if she's so important to the family, why am I just meeting her? The cold fish ask as she eyes me speculatively.

"Nice to meet you, Miss Lincoln," I say overlooking her poor manners and if looks could kill I would be dead. Dr. Grace does not pick up on the chilly reception the woman has given me so she continues to gush about the ice queen being her dearest and oldest friend.

"Grace dear, I think we can leave out oldest."

"Nonsense Elena, you've been with me through thick and thin," she says touching the woman on her forearm. "We should get going. Ana, you'll see the group. Everyone is sitting at the same table including you and your date Elena."

My heart flutters when I eye Christian entering the opulent tent. If I thought he looked good in a suit, he's illegal in a tux. Our eyes lock and it feels like the world stops rotating and he doesn't break our connection or his strides as he makes his way to the table. And it doesn't go unnoticed that the eyes of every woman in the room are fixated on him including ones on the witch at my table.

"Anastasia. You look…Wow." He leans down whispering so only I can hear.

"I hope that's mean good," I respond back in a whisper as he takes the empty seat between Mia and me.

"Better than good," he smirks as he rests a hand on my thigh giving it a light squeeze and I feel it deep in my belly.

"Nice to see you too Christian. You know Anjelica..."

"Anastasia," Everyone at the table yells in unison interrupting the woman because they've had it with her calling me every name but my correct one.

"Am I missing something?" Christian leans over to ask and I give him a curt smile.

"Later," I say between clenched teeth.

"Sorry. Anastasia. As I was saying," she lets out a harsh breath. "She's not the only one at the table yet she's the only one Christian addressed."

"Forgive my manners. Hello everyone," Christian says and his look is impassive.

"What was that about?" I ask leaning over to him.

"Later," he says.

"Touché." And on cue the wait staff places a small salad in front of each person at the table.

The meal was delicious, I learned that Kat Kora a renowned chef donated her services. And I can't wait to see what she's serving for desert. Fortunately, the conversation flowed more smoothly and comfortably with Christian at the table, but now that dinner is winding down the group is starting to couple off to have more private conversations. Mia with her date Brad, Kate and Elliot, and reluctantly Mrs. Lincoln, with her date a young man named Javier.

With everyone in their bubbles, I try to have a conversation with Christian but he seems preoccupied. And Mrs. Lincoln doesn't help when she keeps butting in on us.

"Anastasia, I've noticed you drinking only water you don't want to swap it out for something stronger?" She asks as the server comes around with the wine.

"We overdid it in the limo..." Kate responds trying to cover for me, but the witch interrupts her.

"That hasn't stopped you, Katherine." Mrs. Lincoln purrs, as he brings her wine glass to her lips.

"Elena. If Anastasia wants to drink water whose business is it?" Christian gives what can only be described as a panty dropping smile. "Listen, everyone, I see some people I want to connect with so I'm going to step away. Make sure to donate your wallet and your conscious. Anastasia and Katherine, please enjoy the rest of your evening at the Gala." When he's standing, he leans down to speak softly so only I can care and he tells me he will cover my donation. I'm sure it wasn't his intention but I feel the coolness of his breath against the bit of exposed skin at my neck and it sends a shiver down my spine.

A few steps into his walk, Christian doubles back taking the table by surprise especially Mrs. Lincoln who can't help but follows his every step back to the table.

"It would be a disgrace if I didn't mention how beautifully you make the diamonds look." He rests a hand on the back of my seat so he's at my ear level and he's so close I half expect him to lick the shell. But he gracefully rises when he's done complimenting me. One can dream, but he's gone; as fast as, he came.

As he walks away, for the second time, I follow him and I feel like this is the constant state of being between us; me watching him walk away. Businessmen are all over the Gala and I'm watching for Christian to walk to one of them, but oh no he makes a beeline to a leggy blonde at the bar.

"Ana and Mia do you want to go with me to the bathroom?" Kate asks taking my attention away from the handsome pair.

"Thanks, but Brad and I are going to dance." And Mia's date rises leading her to the dance floor.

"I'm offended. You didn't ask me."

"Ana are you ready?" Kate asks avoiding the older woman's comment and Mrs. Lincoln gives her a nasty smirk.

"What is that Bitches problem?" Kate asks as soon as the door to the elegant porta potty closes. I didn't know such a thing existed.

"I don't know Kate."

"Forget her. Are you alright? I saw how you looked when he left."

"I'm fine."

"Good. Hang in there the night is young. That chick has nothing on you. I know her type, she's played out," she says trying to get me to smile and it works.

"You're a good friend Katherine Kavanagh." I say grabbing her by the wrist.

"I know. But let's get out of here before we get emotional."

"Or before Harry Winston's security guard storms in here for his diamonds," I say and we start giggling like school girls.

"Sam I didn't expect to see you here tonight," I say when I walk up behind her at the bar. She turns to face me and we give each other perfunctory air kisses.

"The Partners couldn't make it so they asked me to step in and seeing that I've always wanted to come, I jumped at the chance. It still angers me that, after all, my badgering you never asked me when we were in…what do you call what we were…"

"A beneficial arrangement between two consenting adults," I say interrupting her.

"Who said Prince Charming doesn't exist." Her response is swift and cutting.

"Thanks for reminding me why I ended it?" I give her one of my patent smiles.

"Yes, my balls were bigger," she says deadpan without skipping a beat and I can't hep but let out a hearty chuckle. I'd forgotten Sam's wicked sense of humor.

"Of course that's how you would see it." And I reach around taking her drink from her setting it on the bar. Dance with me." I put a hand out and she takes it for me to lead her to the dance floor. "As usual, you look lovely tonight." Resting a hand on her spine I pull her against my body into position.

"Thank you and you sir are divine," she says and we start moving as the band plays "Fly Me To The Moon". Like Elena, Sam is a fabulous dancer so we're a force to be reckoned with on the dance floor. I can almost read the headlines tomorrow "Fred Astaire has found his Ginger," with a picture of Sam and me.

Ironically during our time together, we hung out publicly but the gossip rags never suspected anything. Thinking back on it now, we never looked or behaved liked anything but business associates so why would they.

"So who's the hot little number at the table?"

"Who?"

"Don't play coy Grey it doesn't fit you. But I'll play along. The one that's just your type." And I break our frame momentarily pulling back to look in her face.

"What does that mean? You think you know me, huh?"

"Even after months of being privy to your interworld, I don't pretend to know you. You're still an enigma to me. But I do have some insights into what makes you tick and she fits the bill."

"Do tell," I say when I pull her back into hold.

"Passive with enough raw sensuality to hold your attention."

"I can tell you're proud of yourself for what you think is a spot on evaluation of the situation. I actually hate to ruin it for you, but she's a friend of the family and not in line to be the next notch on my bed post." She scoffs

"No matter how big the man's dick he still has a small brain." I pause our movement for a moment

"I beg your pardon. If that was a subtle dig at me, it was not so subtle." She squeezes my hand.

"Lead Grey or I will," she huffs and I have no doubt that she would. "If you're not picking up on the signals Cindy Lou is sending you, you're not the man I thought. I don't know your plans, but I know hers and it definitely entails you being horizontal." On cue the music ends.

"Thank you for the dance Ms. Chatsworth. "

"So am I making her jealous or am I a decoy?" Resting a hand on my arm she whispers as she stands on her tippy toes.

"You're not letting this drop are you?"

"I just want to know my role in this game of cat and mouse," she says.

"Sam, you should know better, I don't repeat myself. Thank you for the dance," And I make to move.

"Christian," she says softly, but her voice is serious this time "Be careful. Naive young women are just as manipulative."

"Thank you, Sam, but your concern is unwarranted. Come let me walk you back to the bar before I go have a few words with Paul Allen."

"I'll have what he's having." I shift to see to see Sam moseying up to the bar next to me and I hold my glass up to her.

"Your family friend has been pining away for you all night. And from the looks of it, you've been doing the same. You've spent a good part of the evening talking to businessmen you could care less about and women who mean less to you than gum on your shoes," she says.

"I choose jealously." And I down the shot before slamming the glass on the bar. "Ready to make someone jealous? Skip the drink and let's get out of here," I say as I get close enough to that spot at her ear that makes her weak in the knees.

"I thought you would never ask," she says running a long manicured nail over the back of my hand.

"You've been a bad girl Sam and you need punishing." And I move a loose tendril behind her ear.

"The worse. Bartender, never mind." She grabs at my cock, but I'm too fast.

"No. I don't want to walk through the crowd at my parents' Gala with a major hard on."

"Have it your way," she smirks.

"I plan too. Wait here while I say my goodbyes."

"It shouldn't take you too long, Cindy Lou has finally left her spot."

A/N Thank you and please don't to forget to review