To the guest reviewer who said Ana should not be okay with Christian sleeping with other women: in his current relationship status beginning to date Ana—absolutely not, I agree. No cheating. However, he has a past, as does she. They both have slept with other people; I can't and won't change that, so get over it.

And to the other guest reviewer who says that she's 5'2" and about 138. I applaud you and your perfection! Now sit down…no, honey; not every 5'2" 140-150lbs woman is a size 6, and I seriously doubt you are too (not that it matters, because at any size or shape, we are all beautiful and sexy.). I wonder if you're thinking European sizes, because at that weight I'm a size 12-14. Whether you are or not, keep in mind everyone is shaped differently. I have friends that are of similar height and weight who are also different sizes than me. Me personally? I have a gut from multiple surgeries, intestinal problems I still have, as well as having 2 babies, otherwise I'm hourglass shaped. That's how I picture Ana; thick, soft, and perfect in her imperfections, like Marilyn Monroe but with a little more physical substance. I thought I had explained all this before? Anyway, you taking offense is on you; I've written this story so far as very 'pro-acceptance' of everyone, and have nothing to apologize for so I won't. The way Ana has been treated is real, I know because it happened to me. I was picked on, made fun of and I wasn't really big. It was a small amount of people who preferred boney over meaty that would torment me; but I always had some men attracted—the ones who like some jiggle. My husband has known me as a size 24, and a size 4/6, and he's always been attracted to me—but he really does prefer me thicker. He likes having something to grab on to. It also goes to show how Ana's life has been, her bad luck, her black cloud. There are some in this world who are just dealt a shitty hand, and Ana and I are examples of them.

The two above are the only remotely negative responses I've received for this chapter. And what do I say to that? Everybody, feel free to chime in ala Psych's Gus and Shawn: suck it!

Don't like it—don't read it. It truly is that simple!

The rest of you I'm happy are really enjoying this different Ana so much! I was afraid she wouldn't be accepted as well as she has. Thank you so much for the wonderful comments! You're all awesome, and I adore you!

Chapter 10

CPOV

She loves me too…and she wants to make love. I don't think I've ever made love; I've only ever fucked bound, blindfolded women. I'm actually a little nervous. She has brought me to my room, as she felt making love in the playroom wasn't appropriate; I must agree with her there. She seems a little nervous as well, now that she's in my bedroom, in just her undies and bra. She looks as if she feels exposed. While I've never had a woman I care for in my bed—let alone a woman I'm desperately in love with— and I've never made love to anyone, it seems to be coming completely naturally to me.

"Christian, I'm not usually overly shy when it comes to showing my body to a lover. But I'm afraid you're going to see things you've never seen before."

"What do you mean, Ana? Don't tell me you have a third breast! Because I really doubt you have a penis under there…" Good, I made her laugh which always reduces the anxiety of the first time.

"I'm not skinny…I mean, I've got a stomach—not a six-pack; I've also got stretch marks and cellulite."

Oh my dear sweet girl…"Honey, you have more to love, more to hold. Every single thing you consider a flaw, is another reason I love you." I step towards her as I slowly remove my shirt. When I reach her, I look at her longingly. "I've waited for this moment for so long. I think I can safely say I've wanted you since our first meeting." I lift her chin up with my finger so she's making eye contact. "I love you, Ana. All of you."

I kiss her softly as I caress her curves. Our passion grows quickly, and she's touching my body, reaching for my zipper. I remove her bra, and then help her remove my pants. "God, Ana; you have the most amazing breasts!" I touch them, gently squeezing and feeling their fullness. I roll one nipple between my fingers as I suck on the other one. She moans in delight. I kneel down after giving her breasts my full attention for several minutes, and remove her panties.

Fuck me! She's been waxed and has left a landing strip. My subs were usually completely bare, but this—this screams womanly. Sexy as hell. I'm so turned on by this sight, I lean in and enjoy lapping at her with my tongue, just to tease. I notice the 'flaws' she spoke of, and I slowly kiss every single one. "I…love…all…of…you…" I say between kisses to her nude body. When I reach her mouth again, she kisses me hungrily and strokes my dick through my boxer briefs. After a couple of minutes, we are both so aroused we aren't speaking any words—just making moaning sounds in between our ragged breathing. She proceeds to remove my underwear, her hands instantly finding my ass and squeezing, then caressing.

I help pull them down all the way and manage to kick them off to the side without breaking our kiss. I start to walk us both over to the bed where I lay down on top of her, still massaging her tongue with mine. I remember she hasn't ever had "good sex", so I make it my goal to satisfy her no matter what; in order to do that, she needs a lot of early stimulation— a lot of foreplay. So I spend the next thirty minutes or so kissing her lips, her neck, sucking her breasts, touching her everywhere, eventually letting my fingers find her pussy. When I feel that she is thoroughly wet, and her clit swollen I know she is ready for me.

I open my nightstand and grab a condom, making quick work of putting it on. Turning back to her, I continue kissing her as I position myself at her apex. I wrap her legs around me, and then we just both stop. I place my hands in hers, resting them on either side of her head. We just look into each other's eyes and the look of happiness and love emitting from her does something to me; I want this forever with her. I want this love, this feeling of tenderness between us. It's so immensely powerful. Still holding hands, I slowly enter her until I'm completely inside. She's so soft and warm. She moans as she rolls her eyes and head back in delight. Good baby, feel me. Feel all of it, all for you. I want you to enjoy yourself…

I begin to move slowly as we once again reconnect in our gaze, and she places her hands on my face, touching my swollen lips. I move faster, our breathing becoming more ragged. We still say nothing, and just revel in the moment. I sit up onto my knees, running my hands up and down her soft body, feeling her warmth and watching her breasts move with each thrust. I hold her hips and grind into her, causing her to scream out loud; the feeling so intense she doesn't know what to do. I make love to her, watching her responses for a while. When I'm reaching that point of no return, I have to turn it up a notch for her. So I grab her legs and push them up to her chest. This position allows my cock to hit her G-spot and continue rubbing it until she's satisfied.

I'm holding her legs down, pounding harder into her wet heat while she gently rubs her clit. It's such a huge turn on to see a woman enjoy sex. She breaks the silence by telling me not to stop, as she's close. I continue on for her sake, until I feel that familiar tightening around my dick, and feel a sudden gush of wetness. She's coming—hard—and I can see it on her face. I love watching the woman I'm with climax; it makes me feel as if I did my job right. It's even better when you're in love with the girl; it makes it that much more powerful as I'm quickly discovering. She's arching her back as much as she can as she screams a tirade of curse words before saying my name. I let myself go, and come so intensely I see stars. When we both are floating down from our high of orgasm, Ana is so flushed and happy. We look at each other, and tell each other I love you.

We lay in bed just holding each other for a while. "Holy cow, Christian. I've never come like that! That was amazing…just the best and most fantastic experience of my life."

"I'm very happy to hear you enjoyed it, Ana. I did too. Watching you rub yourself, and then watching you come…holy shit, that's hot. The feel of your skin, knowing you're mine…" I pull her in to me even closer, and just lightly run my hand up and down her arm as she snuggles in close to me.

After a few minutes, we start talking about our future. "I'd really like for you to move here, move in with me and do what I mentioned last night with school."

"And I want to, but…well, what happens if we break up or you decide you're not the relationship type or something?"

I look down at her. "I can assure you, Ana; that will never happen. I intend on marrying you one day. There's no way in hell I'm letting you go, let alone risking another man whisking you off and away from me."

"I see…if I'm under your roof, you can keep tabs on me. Make sure I'm not being flirted with. How very caveman of you. And who says I'd want to marry you?" She teases.

I pull her on top of me as I sit up, and I proceed to tickle her, and nip at her neck. Just completely playful and enjoying every minute with her. Of course this leads to another round with her on top, followed by a third in the shower as we wash up.

We finally fall asleep out of pure exhaustion, and again I have a most restful night with no nightmares. I wake early for a run with Jason, leaving my girlfriend to sleep in. When we return almost an hour later, I find her in the kitchen having a cup of coffee with Gail and just having girl chat. I told Jason this morning about Ana and I being a couple, and he was thrilled. I'm sure Ana has given Gail the same news by the looks she's giving me.

"Good morning, Mister Grey…breakfast in fifteen minutes."

"Sounds great, Gail; thanks…good morning beautiful. How'd you sleep?" I ask a still groggy but deliriously happy Ana before kissing her.

"Like a freakin' rock! How about you babe?"

It's official; we're a couple. She called me babe!

"Wonderful! I'm going to shower and get ready for work. Be down in a few minutes." I kiss Ana again before nearly skipping up the stairs to my room.

APOV

I woke up in Christian's bed alone, after a passionate night. He said he'd never had sex outside the boundaries of BDSM, but he proved to be what I thought he'd be: a versatile and generous lover. And he's all mine. He asked me to move in with him, and even mentioned marrying me at some point. I'm so ecstatically happy I can't stop smiling. I've got an amazing man who loves me; and now a female friend who I trust will be in it for the long haul; and most importantly—a family. An actual real family. Carrick and Grace adopted Christian, Elliot and Mia; so what's one more? They are bonded together not because of blood—but because of love for one another, just as it should be. I fit in perfectly, and I couldn't be more content.

I head downstairs hoping to find Christian, only to find Gail busy in the kitchen instead. She offers me breakfast and coffee before telling me Christian left earlier for a run with Jason, which he apparently does most days. He must've forgotten to mention it; but its fine. If I'm going to be moving in, I'm certain there will be lots of things to learn about each other's habits and routines, and plenty of time to learn them.

"Ana, are you okay? You seem, a little different this morning."

"Do I? Oh, well I guess so…I mean I feel different, so I'm not surprised I look how I feel…" The encroaching color warming my cheeks and my giggle are always a true giveaway.

"Ana—do you mean? You, and Christian finally are…"

"Yes! We talked last night after everyone left, and we finally admitted we're in love with each other…made love several times…agreed to be together, and that I'm moving in!"

Gail instantly starts crying. "Wait, you made love? In his bedroom?"

"I felt the 'rumpus room' wasn't appropriate for expressing our physical love," I answer over my shoulder as I grab a mug and pour some coffee for myself. "Yes, I know about his lifestyle and no it doesn't bother me. I'm pretty open when it comes to a person's sexuality as long as it's safe and consensual, you know?"

"Oh, so are you going to be one of his contracted girls?" She asks almost disappointed.

"No, I'm not. But I've experimented and don't mind most of that way of life. I'm sure we'll play, but, well… I'm shutting up now before I get too open and honest!"

Gail waves me off. "Oh, honey please—I've seen so much crazy shit in this place alone; nothing you could ever say will bother me, or offend me in anyway. If you ever need some girl talk, I'm always here. Besides, what Mister Grey doesn't know is he inspired Jason and me to spice things up too!"

"Gail!" I scream in fake surprise before we both burst into laughter.

While were still laughing, we hear the elevator and footsteps; the boys are back. Christian enters the kitchen first.

"Good morning, Mister Grey…breakfast in fifteen minutes." Gail offers with a devilish grin.

Way to be cool, Gail!

"Sounds great, Gail; thanks…good morning beautiful. How'd you sleep?" Oh-beautiful! That's me!

"Like a freakin' rock! How about you babe?" Yes, I called you babe—deal with it hot stuff!

"Wonderful! I'm going to shower and get ready for work. Be down in a few minutes."

He kisses me before heading upstairs, and by the look on his face I can tell he's happy with his nickname.

After he leaves for work with promises for a romantic dinner for two tonight, I get busy making phone calls and doing research. I also want to get my plans in order just in case that psycho bimbo Elena decides to start shit. I call work and gently inform Ben of my plans to stay here—although not the reasoning behind my move. He's sad to see me go permanently, but the good news he says is that the restaurant is doing phenomenally well, and his sparkly gift to his wife got his foot in the door to discuss negotiations. It appears they'll eventually work things out and get back together. However, he did tell me he's been sending her little things everyday like flowers, gift baskets, tickets for dates to a play or movie plus dinner at her choice of restaurant. He's also being cooking and helping out more at home. He plans to continue sending her gifts and dating her even when he moves back in. It just so happens that she kicked him out because he'd been drinking a lot for several months prior, and that led to his common sense disappearing and he ended up having a drunken one night stand with a stripper.

Yeah, I would've kicked him out too. But I'm so glad he's getting his life back together; stopped drinking completely, getting his wife back, putting his marriage and family first, spending more time with his kids being a good father. I'm really happy and proud of him. We agree to remain in touch, as when he's his normal self-he's a great guy, and a good friend.

I call my landlord in Boston and let him know that after the end of the year, I'd no longer be looking to rent, but I know someone who would love to. With Elliot starting his company on the east coast, he's going to be traveling there often; I'm sure he'd appreciate his own place as opposed to a cold hotel room. My landlord quickly agreed to my idea. Knowing Elliot, he'll fix the place up on his own dime, hell; he may even just buy the whole damn building. I also called some of the homeless shelters, and unemployment office and told them about Elliot's company and how he's looking for good, strong, honest and reliable help—male or female. They'd be trained, OSHA regulations are always followed as safety is a priority, and best of all the pay wouldn't be the measly current rate of nine dollars an hour; he pays a generous living wage that families can actually survive on.

I mean, seriously; Elliot, Christian and I had a discussion on pay rates when they were in Boston. Neither of them can even conceive of the idea of a family trying to live on nine dollars an hour. It's a ridiculously cheap and broken system that makes it impossible for people to get ahead and puts a strain on a state's resources like welfare, food stamps, fuel assistance, et cetera. If everyone earned a livable wage, the country would be saving so much annually in taxes. People wouldn't be so depressed and stressed out and all the tax money could go to where it's most needed. Bridge and road repair, parks and playground updates, not to mention education and veteran's affairs. Both Christian and Elliot refuse to pay their employees less than fifty- thousand a year—and most make more depending on their position. They also receive additional bonuses and perks, as well as a one- thousand- dollar college fund started for each of the children of employees. In return, they have very happy personnel who make good money, not to mention respect from their bosses and respect for themselves; they honestly want to work harder and do their best. The ones who don't measure up are easily weeded out and let go. I jokingly told them they should run for president and vice-president; they'd absolutely win the votes!

I send Elliot a quick email about potential employees from those places, and he responds that he'll have his headhunter check them out, and he thanks his 'less annoying little sister' for the fantastic idea. I can't help but chuckle at the truth of his words. I love Mia, but I know she drives her brothers nuts.

I also decide to head back to Boston in the next few weeks so that I can go through my things; pack up what's important to me to keep and have it shipped, and everything else I'll donate. But I'll talk to Christian about it, and see if he has any ideas. I then looked for job openings, even though Christian told me I don't need to worry about working; I wanted to see what kind of jobs are out there. I also contacted WSU and made arrangements for a campus tour. Christian has mentioned this school many times as a place he's donated extensively to, especially their agricultural program. Makes sense seeing as he's desperate to feed the world.

By the time I finish up, it's close to noon. I decide to have Luke take me to GEH to surprise Christian for lunch. I dress appropriately, but just a little sexy for my man in a mid- thigh length, sleeveless white dress with butterflies of different colors flitting about all over in the print. I want to tease him—not make him incapable of functioning the rest of the day. Luke contacts his assistant Andrea to tell her I'm coming for a surprise visit, and to order lunch. As soon as we step off the elevator, I'm met with smiles and politeness. This is weird; I feel like I'm in an alternate universe. Andrea is kind, polite, and professional. She greets me with a handshake and small talk, then instructs me to hold on while she buzzes Mister Grey in his office.

"Mister Grey, you have a visitor." She tells him simply.

"If its Elena, I'm busy, otherwise, send them in."

"Yes, Sir." She says smiling at me, and then escorts me in.

This place is massive! It's one whole entire wall of windows, lots of modern furniture, art work, and sculptures. It's beautiful, although slightly cold like his penthouse. But then my gaze falls on a beaming Christian, and warms up my world.

"Ana! To what do I owe this surprise? Thank you, Andrea." Andrea gracefully bows out, closing the door behind her. He kisses me deeply yet tenderly.

"You know, Mister Grey, we should tell your family about us before everyone else finds out. They'd be really hurt—and Mia would be pissed!"

"Yeah, I guess you're right. I could call me parents and see if we could swing by after I'm done here. We can tell them and Mia. I'll have Elliot and Kate meet over there as well. Did you know they're practically inseparable? I think they are kind of unofficially living together already."

"Yes, Kate told me. They both are head over heels for the other. I guess the saying is true that when you meet 'the one', you just know instantly. I'm happy for them, and happy that it happened because of me!" I jokingly blow on my nails and buff them on my chest—a mock show of pride, which makes him chuckle. "I have a feeling Kate and Elliot are pretty aware already of us being together, but yeah, call your family so we can tell them before it ends up in the tabloids."

He calls and his mother answers. It takes a moment to convince her nothing is wrong and that everyone is fine as she's not used to receiving calls from Christian this time of day, or week. All he will tell her is he has something he needs to discuss with the family, and that's it. She insists we both come over for dinner, and I'm certain she has a hunch. Well, I guess we'll have to turn our romantic dinner for two into a romantic lunch for two right here and now.

"Are you sure you don't mind going to my parents again tonight?"

"You mean get closer to an actual family that I love? Of course I mind, I'm disgusted; horrified." I say as I sarcastically begin to roll my eyes. However, before I can finish I'm suddenly grabbed by Christian and then roughly put over his knee as he sits.

"There's one thing you should be aware of, Ana; I hate people rolling their eyes at me. Every time you roll your eyes, I will spank you. Do you understand?"

"Yes…yes, Sir." Fuck—this is so hot!

"Good girl. I will only strike you six times. I want you to count…and thank me for them."

"Yes, Master; as you wish." I can't help chuckling at getting another movie quote in there, this one from The Princess Bride.

As I'm wearing a dress, I've made it much easier for him to just lift it over my ass, slowly remove my panties as he caresses my now bare bottom. I'm already wet, and I know he can feel it. Suddenly I feel his hand lift and come right back down hard on my right cheek. I take a deep breath through the pain that I find such an absolute turn on. "One; thank you, Sir." Another strike to my left cheek. "Two. Thank you, Sir."

He stops only a moment to caress my already reddened rear, before coming down hard again. I instinctively move, but to no avail; he's got my legs pinned with his leg, my arms held behind me with his free hand. I'm not going anywhere, and I've never been happier to be a bad girl. More touching, rubbing, this time he rubs up and down my slit as well.

"My, my, Miss Steele…somebody's enjoying their punishment this afternoon. Shall I continue?"

"Yes, please Master. I've been a naughty disrespectful girl and I must be punished." My breasts are pressed hard against his leg. I can feel his erection against my hip. He strikes again, but this time at the apex of my thighs. I can't fight the moan that escapes my mouth.

"Four, and thank you, Sir." No caress, he just gets to spanking hard and fast for the last two. I'm squeezing my thighs together in an effort to stop my excitement from dripping down my legs. I'm breathing heavy on the last one, almost disappointed that it's over. "Six; thank you, Master. I hope I've pleased you."

"You have." He admits as he helps me up. "Now, your Master needs you, and that tight box of yours. Lean over the chair, legs spread shoulder width apart. Put that gorgeous pink ass in the air, and don't move." He orders as he's removing his clothes.

"As you command, Sir." I do as he says, and quickly feel him behind me, lifting my skirt, grabbing my hips and impaling me with his stiff cock. I can't handle how good he feels and my knees begin to buckle and he thrusts hard and fast. He's holding me up with his hands on my waist. I'm not quiet when it comes to sex, and even though we are in his office, I still can't control myself.

He stops thrusting long enough to stick my panties in my mouth in hopes of muffling the sound a little. He then continues to pound me over and over. "Thank you thank you thank you, Master…please, may I come? Please?" I'm pleading with him.

"Yes you may come. You're such a good girl, Ana. Fuck! I feel you coming baby, squeeze my dick, just like that. That's so good." He's practically grunting watching me come. But he doesn't stop. He keeps fucking me from behind, enjoying the view of my pink cheeks, and watching himself slide in and out of me. I'm still so aroused by all of it, that I come a second time, causing a chain reaction that starts his orgasm. My pussy is throbbing, milking his cock of every drop. I planted my face in the cushion so I wouldn't be too loud when I screamed. He had to lean over and plant his teeth on my shoulder to muffle his pleasure.

"Oh my God, Ana, that was fucking hot as shit! I loved how we can just jump into a scene together. How you just follow my lead. Thank you, I really needed that."

"I think I needed that too. It's been a while since I've been fucked. I mean, I know we made love several times, but sometimes a girl just needs and wants a good hard fuck, and to be taken by her man…" My wanton look goes straight through him.

"I love you so much, Ana. You're absolutely perfect for me. Screw that. You are me—in the female form. I hope I make you as happy as you've made me."

"I Love you too, Christian; and of course you make me happy. I'm also glad I satisfy you in every need." We kiss and hold each other a few minutes before we head to his bathroom in his office to clean up. Perfect timing too, as lunch has arrived and Andrea will be bringing it in in a moment. Now that would've been embarrassing getting caught fucking by his beautiful, classy assistant!

CPOV

Anna and I have a wonderful lunch brought in from one of the local places. Afterwards, I got to introduce her to a lot of the employees, and I think some are still in shock by my use of the word 'girlfriend'. She really got on well with Andrea once they got a chance to chat, as well as with Welch and Barney. I think Barney may have a small crush on her by the way he was checking her out and couldn't make eye contact for more than just a moment.

After she leaves with Sawyer, I get back to work. I had two conference calls to make, as well as a staff meeting with top management to get an update on things. I try to have one every month to touch base, make sure there's no concerns or weak links. Once that's finished, Taylor and I are heading to pick up Ana and head to my folks' house.

She's dressed simply and comfortably for a night spent with just my family; blue jeans, white sandals, and a white short sleeved top with a bird and flowers print in blues and greens. It makes me so very happy that she fits right in with us— seamlessly. I can't keep my hands or lips off her the whole ride over, she's just so amazing. I struck gold and I didn't even know I was mining. When we arrive, the door instantly flies open and there's Mia, her usual excitable self, to greet us.

"I'm so happy you guys are here! Oh my God, Ana you have to see how I want to redecorate my bedroom!" She greets us with hugs and kisses before leading the way inside where we find the rest of the gang. My mom is pouring the wine and instructing the cook on when to serve, and Elliot and Kate are having some kind of giggly conversation about God- knows- what.

And then my heart drops. Out comes Elena from the restroom, completely made up, her breasts practically on display. I see the smile on Ana's face disappear, and I remember the other night when she told me what Elena said to her. I know she's worried about it, but I'm not. Elena can't destroy me without taking herself down as well—and she's all about preservation as her plastic surgery can attest.

"Christian…" She purrs. Then she sees Ana with me and her demeanor changes. "Oh, Ana; I thought you'd have left by now. How—interesting to see you again." What a smug bitch. But Ana takes it all in stride. My girl has been through a lot and has come face to face with a lot worse than the likes of Elena Lincoln.

My mother finally comes out to greet us. "So happy to see you again, Ana! I was so thrilled when Christian said you're still in town. You remember Elena…? She called earlier this afternoon and when I mentioned Christian stopping by for dinner, she decided to join us and pay a visit. Wasn't that nice? It's great to have such good friends!" She finishes as she squeezes Elena's hand.

"So what's going on, Christian? Your mother said you had some news that you felt you should give in person. Is everything okay? Any problems at work?"

"No, Dad, nothing like that. Things are quite well actually." I say with a smile.

"Okay, then what is it?" Mia whines. I love my sister but sometimes she drives me up the wall—and tonight is one of those times.

"Don't you want to have dinner first?" I ask

"I can't go a whole dinner knowing there's news to hear! So please dear, let us know now."

I take a deep breath. "Well, I assure you, nothing is wrong; it's only good news…Ana and I have fallen in love, and are officially dating."

Elliot and Kate don't seem at all surprised, and my mother, father and Mia—while not overly surprised are obviously thrilled. They congratulate us and practically maul Ana to welcome her to the family. "But that's not all!" I announce. "She's going to be moving here to Seattle—and will be living with me." I look at her with such love. I grab her hand and kiss her knuckles, as I mouth the words 'I love you' to her. Elena seems to be the only one completely taken back by this news; as I'm sure she thought she'd scared Ana off and away from me forever. Yep, Elena and I will have to have a talk…

During dinner, we discussed Ana's plans for when she's living here; school to finish her English Literature degree, and then possibly to study Early Childhood Education. She spoke of her love of kids and wanting to work with them, her past years spent babysitting, and possibly considering starting her own preschool if things go well. But she's torn between both her love of books and that field of possible work with a publishing company to starting her own where she'd basically play with young kids all day. My mom and Kate both talked to her about making a list of pros and cons for both fields, what she loves most, and maybe the right path would present itself. I reminded her she need not make a decision now, as she's got more than enough time.

After dinner, Anna, Kate and my mom were in the kitchen finishing up the dishes and chatting away. My dad and Elliot went on the porch to smoke cigars, and as I hate them, I stayed in my father's office checking my work emails on his computer. Of course, trouble always finds me, and in walks Elena.

"What do you want, Elena? I'm busy."

"I'm just still in shock over your announcement earlier; a girlfriend, Christian?"

"Yes, Elena; a girlfriend. Someone I love and cherish and plan on loving and cherishing for the rest of my life. Not that that's anything you'd be able to comprehend."

"Why so venomous with your old friend and mentor? All I'm trying to say is that I know you better than anyone and I know this 'relationship' won't last. It's not who you are."

"No, it's who you want me to be. It's who I was. Past tense. You know something, Elena? I was miserable until I met Ana."

"Oh please, you're rich, hot and can fuck any one you want; how can that life be so bad?"

"Because I wasn't living; I merely existed. The few people who did love me I kept at arm's length. And then I met Ana and she showed me what it means to have lasting friendships, relationships; how to laugh and how to cry, and not once did she ask anything of me other than my friendship. That is how I know what she and I have is real and will last." I stand up to show her how serious I am. "Make no mistake, Elena; Ana is going nowhere and she will be my wife and mother to my children one day, so get used to it." I shut the computer down and start to head out of the room, letting her stew, but she stops me.

"You think you can just cut me off like that? You suddenly don't need me or my girls? We're in business together, Christian; the salons plus all your subs you pay me to find and train for you. You just try to push me aside and see what happens." Venom all but dripping from her fangs.

"You know what, you're right. I never realized it before…you're just a manipulative, drag queen in disguise as my pimp and I've outgrown you and your services. Thanks for pointing out to me how much I've grown as a man and as a human being just spending a little over a month away from your poisonous influence." I walk out of the room leaving her with her jaw hung open and go in search of my girlfriend. I can't find her after a few minutes and that's when my father informs me my mother was giving the girls a tour of the house, so I settle in and have a scotch with my dad and brother.

APOV

"Grace, this place is amazing! But I'd really hate to clean it…" I say to some hearty laughter.

"Oh honey, I do too—thankfully we can afford to hire someone to do it for me!" Grace steps between Kate and I and places an arm over each our shoulders. "I'm so happy my sons have both found such wonderful women to pull their heads out of their asses."

"Grace!" Kate and I exclaim. It's so not in Grace's demeanor to use curse words, even if it is only saying 'ass'. This makes me love her more.

"Well, it's true! Christians been so closed off, only spending time at work, his palace in the sky or with Elena for Christ's sake. That relationship never sat well with me, it just seems odd that she got so close to him at such a young age. I mean yes; she helped straighten him out, but he doesn't need another mother—I'm his mother."

Oh if she only knew the truth of it all…Elena wouldn't be so welcome into the Grey family circle.

"Elliot is a smart boy, but so immature in certain ways. Kate, since he met you, he's been a different man; responsible, more settled. Calmer and grown-up in just days. They both have admitted finding 'the one' and I guess that's what it takes to change a man…Mia on the other hand…"

"What about Mia, Grace? Is she okay?" She has me a little worried.

She whispers "not here" and then urges us to follow her outside to 'show us the grounds'.

Once outside, she picks up right where she left off. "Mia is spoiled rotten, and I know it. It's my own fault for giving the little girl I always wanted anything and everything she asked for. Now she just expects everything to be handed to her. She refuses to work, doesn't know if she wants to go to school or what to even study, she wants to shop and hang out with her friends, travel when the mood strikes…I'm just at a loss as to what to do with her to get her to show appreciation for how good she's got it. I want her to develop her own personality and grow up, mature and live her own happy life. Of course, her father and I would support her in anything she decided to pursue…"

"Oh, Grace, I totally understand. Don't feel bad; you did what you felt was right in giving that little baby girl everything she wanted since she got nothing from her birth parents. I think it's completely normal actually to spoil the only daughter."

"I can attest to that! Spoiled brat—right here!" Kate says waving her hands in the air. "I was a daddy's girl, I could get anything out of the man if I asked and gave the puppy dog eyes."

"So what made you change?"

Yeah, Kate; what made you change?

"I guess you could call it my 'Oprah Ah-Ha moment'. I was with my parents and brother and it was around Christmas time. We were shopping and my parents were buying out the stores! Well we're walking down the sidewalk, and I remember I was freezing my buns off, and everything was just icing over after a light rain. Gee, I must have been in my mid-teens or so. Anyway, I wasn't paying attention to where I was walking, and I tripped and fell—hard. When I got up I looked down and saw what I had tripped over…" Kate begins to get teary-eyed. "It was an elderly homeless man. He'd obviously been there awhile, and when my dad tried to wake him to give him some money and apologize for his daughter tripping on him, we realized he had passed away." Grace handed her a cloth handkerchief. I always thought those things were a myth! I never knew anyone or saw anyone actually use one before.

"The emergency crews arrived and the coroner said he was dead at least a couple of days. That broke my young heart that this poor old man was lying dead on a city street for days, with people just stepping over him and not one person offered him help of any kind. Not only that, but he was all alone. Didn't he have a family to love? The idea just stuck in my brain; even now I'll never forget that feeling it gave me."

"Oh Kate, I'm so sorry." I say offering her a hug in comfort.

"Well, of course I get what I want, so I made my daddy pay for a proper burial for him, and after that I don't know…it just changed me. I realized how lucky I was to have a home and food whenever I got hungry, a closet full of clothes, a bath to wash in. I stopped taking it all for granted and became more thankful. I stopped asking for stuff for just me, and I'd go on shopping sprees instead to buy toys for homeless kids, and volunteer at some shelters. Then fate stepped in and I met Ana who used to be homeless—and she's now my best friend in the whole world because she gets it. She's not like my former friends who just wanted to shop and spend daddy's money."

"She truly is a woman of substance…" I hear coming from behind us.

"Christian! Hi honey." He greets me with a kiss, and then a big hug for Kate.

"I knew I liked you the moment I met you. You seemed to have a good head on your shoulders even though you come from a wealthy family. I could tell you weren't just another bimbo for my brother to fuck on his rounds…sorry, Mother." Grace gives him a look at his cursing, but I think she's starting to go easier on him.

"Mom, I agree with you; Mia needs an intervention…"

I speak up first. "I believe I have a great idea…" I give Kate a devilish look, and she returns it. "Leave it to Kate and me…" Suddenly Christian gets a phone call and must take it, and then Elliot comes looking for Kate, so she and Grace head for the house. I'm assuming Mia is in her room on her phone or something. Probably Facebooking, or tweeting, or one of those kind of social media things. She truly is a social butterfly.

I'm making my way slowly towards the house, enjoying the wind on my face and the beauty of this place when I'm confronted by Evil in Louboutins.

"Hello, Ana."

"What could you possibly want from me, Elena?"

"I was very surprised at your announcement tonight at dinner. I thought you'd have left to spare Christian pain and embarrassment; I guess you truly don't care about him…maybe it's just his money after all."

I can't help but laugh. "No, you silicone piñata—I don't give in to bullies. In fact, I usually humiliate them at the first opportunity. So, do you have anything else to add?" That's right you psycho, keep talking…I see Christian approaching quietly behind her, and I want him to hear her venom from her own lips.

"I wasn't trying to just scare you, you stupid fool; I was trying to spare you the shame of being dropped when he realizes you are nothing like what he wants, and he calls me to get him a new submissive. Christian and I go way back—"

"Yes, all the way back to when he was a minor I understand." That got her attention; time to demolish whatever delusions she's got left in that skull of hers. "Listen, lady; I don't know you, and you sure as hell don't know me. So why don't you tuck your tail between your legs and run off and leave him alone. He's grown up and moved on. He doesn't need you anymore; he never did actually. You manipulated and lied to him for years, convincing him otherwise."

"My relationship with him is none of your business you fat whore! I warned you! I told you what would happen if you didn't go away quietly; and now you're going to regret it for the rest of your life. I can't wait to see your face when he finds out what you've done and he kicks you out of his life—only to come right back to me." She is practically laughing at this point. Good…

"That'll be enough, Elena!" Christian booms, startling her. He comes to my side and places his arm around my waist showing how close and connected we are. I place my hand on his chest with no reaction from him and Elena nearly trips and falls in shock.

"She's touching your chest, Christian! What the hell is going on?"

"I think the peroxide has gone to her brain, Ana…" He says to me jovially. "It's like I've said before—she and I are in love; she's moving in with me, eventually we will get married and have children. Do you understand that?" He's more than thrilled hammering this into her head, as the more he says the more real it becomes to her. "She can touch me anywhere she wants because I trust her. She will never intentionally hurt me, and she isn't with me for money as you accused her of. Even if you do somehow manage to ruin my career, I'll never, ever blame Ana. It will all be on you, Elena. And I don't play nicely with bullies either."

I'm looking up at him as he speaks, putting this bitch in her place, and I'm falling even more in love with him, if that's possible. I'm beaming at him, as he pauses to kiss me gently right in front of her.

"I also find it abhorrent that you'd call her 'fat', when she obviously isn't. Way to keep it classy! Listen, I know you said it because you're backed up against a wall, and can't find any flaws to call her out on to make you feel better about yourself. You're pathetic, Elena; and I'm putting an end to our friendship and business relationship." He smiles as he drops the bomb on her—she's ruined socially and financially.

"Come on, Ana; let's go back inside and spend more time with our family."

He and I, still holding on to each other, head back to the house listening to the sound of Elena Lincoln crying alone while standing in the grass.

A/N: The deceased homeless man is a true story; it happened to my sister in law when she was a teenager visiting NYC with friends. So sad.

Also, I was curious if anyone's noticed Ana's already changing? She was always in jeans and t-shirts, blacks and greys. (Minus the white lace dress from dancing of course…) Now she's wearing colors! She's finally found some happiness with friends, love, and a family. She's getting everything she's wanted but was always denied. I'm actually very happy for this fictitious character! LOL