A/N: This is a LONG chapter. I was in the zone and didn't want to break things up, so forgive me in advance. – ST2
Chapter 11 – Goodbye Girl
Sunday, August 14, 2011
I can't sleep a wink.
My thoughts won't lend me peace to slumber.
I mindlessly tickle out a tune from the keys of my piano.
It's as if my brain remains on an endless loop.
I am stuck in a time warp that I can't escape.
That dance was the moment when time stood absolutely still.
I can't recall whether she even touched me or not.
I was present – but I really wasn't there.
It was the quintessential out-of-body experience.
It was a feeling that I've never experienced before.
Look, I've fucked many women in my time. And even while in the act of what society deems as the most intimate that two individuals can be with one another, I still didn't feel back then what I felt when I danced with Miss Steele.
If there are words to describe the bevy of feelings that are swirling in the midst of me, I wish that someone would tell me what those words are.
I have no words.
None.
And after all of that, I still decided to turn and leave her at that bar with those two other men.
What in the hell was I thinking?
Well, she did text me as soon as she made it home – just as I requested. But hell, even Elliot thought enough to text me just before going to town on Miss Kavanagh.
Elliot Grey
12:23a: Hey, don't wait up for me. I'll catch you later when I'm back to get my truck.
There's no question that he fucked Miss Steele's roommate on the first night.
Tacky apparently attracts tacky.
I at least hope that he spares me the gory details.
I want no part of his slutty play-by-play with my support manager's best friend.
In spite of the cringe worthiness of my brother banging Miss Kavanagh, there is a plus side to the two of them leaving the bar together.
Neither witnessed what transpired between Miss Steele and I.
Not that I'm ashamed that we danced together.
It was just a dance.
I just know how my brother is. He will take something quite miniscule and blow it up to smithereens.
Oh, Elliot's endless rants concerning my lackluster sex life.
Little does he know.
Little does anyone know.
But if Elliot were there to witness that seemingly innocent dance between Anastasia and I, he would've completely thrown it way out of proportion.
I did catch his surprised expression the moment he discovered that the employee I was checking up on at the bar was a female. I've known my brother long enough to notice that look in his eye when he wants to say something, but doesn't. I trust that the floodgates will open the minute he returns to my apartment to fetch his truck.
A dinging coming from the foyer startles me.
That was quite fast, Elliot. Perhaps it's a new record.
Maybe he quickly caught the bitchy side of Katherine Kavanagh…the side of her that she was obviously hiding the moment she first laid eyes on him.
I quickly stop playing the piano, sit erect and alert, and anticipate Elliot to surface from the foyer.
But alas, it's Taylor.
He's just as surprised to see me, as I am to see him.
"Sir, my apologies. I thought that you would be asleep at this hour."
"You're early."
"I know. Sophie's back home with her mother, and Gail's sister is in town until later tonight. I thought I would come back here to sleep for a few hours and get an early start on some work later," Taylor explains.
"Very well. I was just heading into the study to do some work myself," I say matter-of-factly. Taylor tilts his head slightly at an angle. His eyes fail to mask his concern.
"What?" I frown.
"Nothing, Sir. Is there anything I can do for you before I turn in for a few hours?"
"No, Taylor. Go on."
"Very well Sir."
What's his deal?
It's not like Taylor hasn't walked in on me at the piano before. In fact, he has walked in on me many times before in much more, um…compromising positions. I wouldn't be the least bit surprised if either Taylor or Mrs. Jones has walked in and seen me fucking one or more of my submissives out in the open in this very apartment.
Two hours later, I find myself pounding out an email to a jackass in analytics at almost five o'clock in the morning.
Yes, I know it's Sunday, but I've finally gotten around to reviewing the market projections that he emailed me Friday afternoon.
What's his premise for these forecasts?
Did Dan Thompson – my head of analytics, or anyone from his management team even review this bullshit before this random kid, who's not even in management, had the gall to email it to me? I'm quite certain that no one has double-checked his work.
This isn't the first time that Carl Pratt has fucked up.
When will he ever learn?
From: Christian Grey
Subject: Q3/Q4 Market Forecast
Date: August 14, 2011 04:56
To: Carl Pratt
CC: Ros Bailey, Mark Richards, Dan Thompson
Mr. Pratt,
There are several errors in your output:
1. Your Q4 figures fail to take into account the potential market impact of the upcoming presidential election.
2. A press announcement was just released on Thursday from our nearest competitor. They are liquidating all assets and completely dropping out of the market. Where's the potential impact in your forecast for that?
3. I need to see the complete picture for Q2. You are still showing a market forecast where there should be actuals.
4. Why are you severely underestimating the market's performance in the final two quarters? Do you even know our market at all?
It is crucial that these reports are as accurate as possible since they serve as the roadmap for GEH. Any missteps can be detrimental to our business.
Moving forward, please review all future output with Dan before wasting my time.
Christian Grey
CEO, Grey Enterprises Holdings, Inc.
I am fuming, but thankfully my irritation serves a purpose.
I'm distracted.
I decide to check more emails and research any recent news on Genius Exports. Our acquisition is soon coming. I just need to make sure that we are making the right move. After a few minutes, something new comes in my inbox.
It's odd that I instantly anticipate it being Miss Steele. However, I'm certain that she's asleep at this hour.
From: Ros Bailey
Subject: RE: Q3/Q4 Market Forecast
Date: August 14, 2011 05:16
To: Christian Grey
Christian,
First of all, why are you up so early on a Sunday?
Secondly, that email to Carl was way too harsh. All of those errors you pointed out are fixable.
Ros Bailey
COO, Grey Enterprises Holdings, Inc.
From: Christian Grey
Subject: RE: Q3/Q4 Market Forecast
Date: August 14, 2011 05:18
To: Ros Bailey
Ros,
Regarding your first question, I could ask you the very same.
As far as Pratt is concerned, he's been told time and time again that these forecasts aren't to be toyed with. I have personally called him out during his presentations to the executive committee. He still hasn't learned his lesson.
Christian Grey
CEO, Grey Enterprises Holdings, Inc.
From: Ros Bailey
Subject: RE: Q3/Q4 Market Forecast
Date: August 14, 2011 05:21
To: Christian Grey
Yes, Carl does make mistakes, but don't we all? You treat that young man like shit, Christian. At the last EC meeting, you damn near made him piss his pants. You behaved like a total asshole.
Ironically, I recently reviewed some of the verbatims from the Employee Satisfaction survey. One person possibly connected to Dan's organization commented about the CEO needing to "get laid". I wouldn't be surprised if that remark came from Carl, haha.
Ros Bailey
COO, Grey Enterprises Holdings, Inc.
I narrow my eyes at the remark, but choose to ignore the jab.
Hell, I could fire whoever said that, but those surveys are supposed to be anonymous.
From: Christian Grey
Subject: RE: Q3/Q4 Market Forecast
Date: August 14, 2011 05:22
To: Ros Bailey
Forecasting is our livelihood, Ros. I'm starting to think that there isn't anyone on Dan's team capable of doing the job.
Christian Grey
CEO, Grey Enterprises Holdings, Inc.
From: Ros Bailey
Subject: RE: Q3/Q4 Market Forecast
Date: August 14, 2011 05:24
To: Christian Grey
I don't believe that to be true. But if it were, Dan did insist on having Anastasia Steele join his team not too long ago. Perhaps she can still join analytics and perform the forecasting duties to your satisfaction.
Ros Bailey
COO, Grey Enterprises Holdings, Inc.
Nope.
My mood completely sours.
Just when I thought work would distract me, I'm feeling quite possessive over my support manager.
Miss Steele's not working anywhere else.
Dan will just have to suck it up and work with what he has.
From: Christian Grey
Subject: RE: Q3/Q4 Market Forecast
Date: August 14, 2011 05:26
To: Ros Bailey
What separates Miss Steele from Mr. Pratt is that she had several key departments review her Employee Satisfaction report and recommendations before presenting the final results to me.
In contrast, Mr. Pratt hasn't even taken the time to have one person review his work. This is why Miss Steele was able to rise up to her current position in just one month. While after three years, Mr. Pratt is still a senior analyst and not a manager.
Christian Grey
CEO, Grey Enterprises Holdings, Inc.
From: Ros Bailey
Subject: RE: Q3/Q4 Market Forecast
Date: August 14, 2011 05:28
To: Christian Grey
Point taken. I'll meet with Carl and Dan on Monday and ensure that they have a cadence in place for the forecast moving forward.
Now, step away from the computer and try to enjoy the rest of your weekend.
Ros Bailey
COO, Grey Enterprises Holdings, Inc.
Likewise, Ros.
Ros stated the obvious.
Miss Steele is in high demand.
She's a shining star.
I knew that she would pull off that project when I gave it to her. However, I had no idea that she would end up being the talk of the entire organization. To her credit, no one questioned my choice once she was announced as my new support manager.
But how long will she remain in this position?
Yeah, I know – she only started the role a few days ago.
However, I need to think about next steps.
Miss Steele is currently a manager with executive privileges. The obvious promotion from there is for her is to become an executive. Now, it's all about discovering what her niche is and grooming her for the next level.
See Grey…we can do this – this whole work thing.
I can separate business from personal.
Her professional aptitude makes it all possible.
Anastasia Steele isn't just a pretty face.
….
"Yes?" I speak out.
Taylor opens the door and enters my study holding a cup of coffee.
"Thought you could use this, Sir."
I narrow my eyes at him in confusion.
Isn't he supposed to be resting like he said he would?
I glance at the clock on my desk.
Shit!
I had no clue that it was past eight. The blinds in my office are drawn, blocking all trace of sunlight. My mind was so occupied with Genius Exports and Elite Technologies that I've lost all track of time.
"Thanks," I reply, taking the coffee into my hands.
"Anything else?"
"No. Thank you, Taylor. I think I'm going to go for a run and do some more work."
"Productive early morning?"
"Yes. Very."
Taylor tightens up his mouth in a poor attempt of a smile before exiting. As I take a sip of my coffee, my vibrating BlackBerry startles me.
Who in the hell's calling me this early?
Shit. It's Flynn.
I wonder what he wants.
I pick up.
"Grey."
"Christian – you're up. How did your Saturday go? Did you get out like I suggested?"
I frown as if he were here in the room.
What gives, Flynn?
"I did," I say succinctly.
"Very good. I'm just checking in. You know…this 'weekend arrangement' is sort of becoming a new thing with us," John says in his quintessential British sarcastic way. A rush of air shoots out of my nostrils.
"I suppose. Although it's normally been me calling you these days," I say with irony.
"Well…I thought I'd beat you to the punch this time around. Anything you want to discuss this morning?"
Before I can form my lips to say the word 'No', visions of last night begin to flood my thoughts.
And just when I thought hours of working would push things out of my sub-consciousness. Flynn's prompting reacts as a stimulant. I can no longer starve these lingering emotions.
"Well…my brother Elliot came by. We ended up hiking a trail at Tiger Mountain."
"That's fantastic Christian. Good going."
I ignore his praise and continue on.
He'll eat those words once he hears the entire story.
"Afterwards, we returned to my place, freshened up, and watched the game."
"Sounds like you had a great Saturday."
"Unfortunately, I couldn't leave well enough alone, John."
After I speak the words, silence stretches in between us. A minute goes by before Dr. Flynn takes in a deep breath. It's my cue to continue.
"I had to know where she was. I tracked her car."
Flynn sighs.
I knew it.
I knew he would regret his praise from earlier.
"By 'she', you mean 'Anastasia'?"
"Yes."
"So…what happened?"
"She was at a bar. I went there and saw her there with friends."
I can't recall ever hearing so many sighs released in a single brief conversation.
"Did she see you there?"
"Yes."
"So…what happened?"
"We said 'hello'. She introduced me to her friends. We danced."
This time, his sigh sounds more like a gasp.
"Wow. You danced? Just you and her?"
"Yes."
"What happened after that?"
"I went home. I've been up ever since."
"Christian, Christian, Christian."
I rub my palm over my eyes.
Wake up, Grey.
You did this to yourself.
"Christian, you won't be at peace until you tell her how you feel. It doesn't matter where you are in your current state. It's really nothing in the grand scheme of things."
I can feel the frustration churning up on the inside.
"How can you even say that, John? You know exactly what I've been through."
"Yes Christian – you've been dealt a really shitty hand in life. However, you need to stop bearing that cross silently and open up to someone."
"That's what I'm doing right now. I'm opening up."
Yeah, John – that's what I fucking pay you for.
To listen to me 'open up'.
"You know exactly what I'm talking about, Christian. Look – just think about what I said. Consider it. Consider letting Anastasia in and giving her the benefit of the doubt. If you need me, please…don't hesitate to call. I'll be taking off to LA tomorrow for a professional seminar. However, I'll be back in time for the big annual HEROES Gala on Friday. Maybe I'll see you there?"
Fuck…the HEROES gala is this coming Friday.
Suddenly, a light bulb goes off.
I should bring Miss Steele with me.
GEH is a major contributor to the HEROES organization.
This is an official company-sponsored event.
Miss Steele will have to go.
"See you then, John. Have a good week in Los Angeles," I say before we hang up.
Flynn will be pleasantly surprised to see her there.
Maybe he can get a feel for her by meeting her face to face.
Perhaps he can determine if she'll have the stomach to handle what I'm truly like behind closed doors.
Moments later, I quickly type Andrea an email asking her to add the HEROES Gala to Miss Steele's calendar.
Afterwards, I draft up an email to Caroline Acton, a personal shopper from Neiman Marcus. I'm certain that once she sees this email, she'll probably wonder why it has taken me so long to reach back out to her.
Hell – it's been many months since I've had a submissive to shop for.
No, Miss Steele isn't my submissive.
In fact, she's very far from one.
In spite of this fact, I wholeheartedly trust Ms. Acton's taste in women's formalwear as well as women's attire in general.
What sort of dress would be best suitable for Miss Steele to wear to the Gala?
My thoughts suddenly flash back to the color fuchsia.
Hmm – fuchsia.
She wore a fuchsia dress in one of those miserable dreams I had when she takes off with Katherine Kavanagh's brother. And even though the mere thought of that occurring puts a more than sour taste in my mouth, I still can't help but appreciate how radiant she looked in my dream wearing that color.
I also feel more at ease that Miss Steele was able to ignore her male company the moment I came on the scene last night at the bar. If anything, our dance proved during and afterwards that if there was anything going on between her and Ethan Kavanagh before then, it soon became insignificant.
She and I transcended space and time on that dance floor.
It was a connection that eclipses words.
However, in spite of that taking place, I must stay the course. There are some things that I need to deal with before I can even consider opening up any dialog with Miss Steele concerning what transpired last night.
For now, I must ignore the entire incident. Bringing her attention to it would be a huge mistake. It would overly complicate things, especially if she's in the market for…for more.
I need time.
'Time' to get over the dreadful fears that continue to plague my existence.
'Time' to learn what it is that women like Anastasia want.
'Time' to tear down what is now my playroom.
I don't care what Flynn says concerning me not giving Anastasia enough credit. I know for a fact that women like her wouldn't understand that unorthodox part of me.
Hell…my mother wouldn't get it if she knew. I used to play the same scenario over and over again in my head throughout the years.
What would happen if my family found out about my participation in the lifestyle?
First of all, my mother and father would completely lose their shit.
I wouldn't hear the end of it from Grace.
Carrick would simply look at me with shame and disappointment.
And Elliot…he probably would consider me to be the biggest hypocrite in Seattle.
In the past, I would often give him shit whenever he would harp on his sexual conquests. There's no way in hell that Elliot would understand – or even care that all of my past relationships with women were monogamous.
He wouldn't be able to get past the notion of me having extremely kinky sex.
The only person who would remotely treat me like a human being is my sister Mia. And even then, I would no longer shine so brightly in her sight.
That alone would destroy me.
So factor in the idea of dating someone.
Dating.
Dating?
I can't even wrap my head around that. I've never 'dated' anyone. And the premise of dating someone like Miss Steele is a scary one. Not only does she work for me, but no other person has ever challenged me the way that she has.
She is relentless.
She'll want to know all there is about me.
She'll leave no stone unturned.
I'll be exposed.
I'm not sure if I'm ready for that.
No…I'm certain that I'm not ready for that.
….
Just before noon, I exit the elevator, returning home. Sweating, I am still catching my breath. My thirst tugs at the seam of my damp hoodie.
As soon as I enter the great room, Elliot rises to meet me.
He lives.
"Hey…where were you?" he asks.
Instead of replying to his silly question, I turn from him and head to the kitchen for a bottle of water from the fridge. I can hear Elliot's footsteps trailing behind me.
"So…what did you do last night?"
I can hear the suggestiveness in his inquiry, which I brush off immediately.
"Came back here. Worked. How was your night with Miss Kavanagh," I lob back at him as I twist open the seal of the water bottle and throw back its contents.
"Her name is 'Kate', Mr. Formal. Kate is a great girl. In fact, I'm seeing her again tonight."
I nearly choke on my water, but I maintain my composure.
Either she was stellar in the sack, or he's looking to use her for some other purpose. God knows what that purpose may be.
"Look, man – I know you have the hots for Ana. Why don't you just admit it?" he says, getting right to the point.
I glare at him.
Where in the fuck is this coming from?!
Miss Kavanagh doesn't know me at all, so I'm unsure where Elliot would arrive at such a thing.
"Don't play coy, Grey. There was no reason for you to track that girl's car to that bar and surprise her there. I saw the way you were mean-mugging Ethan and José. You want Ana for yourself…don't you," he says with a satisfied smirk.
"You're dreaming, Elliot," I say, brushing him off.
I would never admit it to him.
"Look…Ana is hot. She works for you. You're filthy rich…good looking and powerful. She'd never say 'No' to you."
What the hell?!
I can feel my jaw tightening up.
His words aggravate me.
"Elliot, unlike all of the trout that you've run through in your lifetime, Miss Steele has a brain. She's not materialistic and she doesn't care about one's status," I snap back.
His eyes narrow and the edges of his mouth curl up into a sinister grin.
"And you know this how?"
"She works for me, Elliot. We've worked closely for almost two months now. I even took her to work when she was in between cars."
The news takes him aback.
Oh no. I've said entirely too much.
"You never told me that," he says with a hint of amusement.
"Was I supposed to?" I say, annoyed.
"Hey, you know tons about me and my life. On the flip side, I know nothing about yours."
He's starting to sound like an emotional female.
It's not a good look, Elliot.
"Would you like me to go through every last person who works for me? If so, there are about forty thousand employees at GEH. You'd better take a seat now so I can get started," I frown.
"It's obvious that you don't give the same attention to the others as you do with Ana."
"She's new. I'm training her."
"In fact, you've never uttered a single word about her. However, the moment I saw you two interacting together at the bar…I knew."
He lets his last few words linger in between us.
What in the hell is he talking about?
Did he see us dance and I didn't know it?
"You 'knew' what?" I say with an expression that displays both amusement and absurdity.
"I knew that you dug her. I even asked Kate if there was anything going on between you and Ana. She kept a tight lip. I could tell that she was holding back. She'd never betray her best friend."
I gape at him.
"So you've apparently gotten to know Miss Kavanagh quite well in the span of twelve hours," I say with an eye roll.
I walk over and place my now empty bottle with the recyclables before reaching into the fridge for a new bottle.
"You expected me to have just a one night stand. I know all of my past stories didn't help my reputation in your sight. But in spite of that, Kate and I talked for most of the night. Hell, even I was surprised. Kate's a wonderful girl. I honestly would like to know her better."
I turn to Elliot and witness a sincere expression on his face.
Whoa, he's not kidding.
My eyes widen in shock.
"My, my, my. Is she the 'woman' that you've been seeking in a world filled with 'immature girls', as you say?"
"It's panning out that way. However, I just met her. You know how women have this way of pulling the rug from under you the second they think that they've got you," he says with humor.
Don't I know it.
I quickly think back to my past submissives that'd often want something beyond the contract that they've signed after time has past.
"Like I said, I'll let you know the second I meet 'the one'. Hey, it would be kind of cool if it ends up being Kate. I hope she's truly as she seems. It would also be kinda cool if you were to start dating Ana. We could even double date," he says with a slightly hopeful grin.
Double date?
He's out of his ever-loving mind.
I immediately tense up.
"Elliot…"
"I know, I know…she works for you. But if you can't see what's right in front of your face, you're fucking blind. Hey…I even asked Kate if Ana was seeing anyone and she said, 'Not yet'. I'm not sure what that means – but if I were you, I'd jump on that before someone else does."
'Not yet'?
What does that even mean?
Is there someone else in the running?
The news startles me, but I continue to restrain myself.
"I'm not 'jumping on' anything, Elliot. For the hundredth time, she works for me," I mouth the last eight words very slowly for his comprehension.
"Oh well, it's your lost. Look bro, I've gotta go. I'm going to shower and chill at home for a bit before I pick up Kate tonight. I'll catch you later."
"Later."
….
Friday, August 19, 2011
Another productive workweek has gone by. It's now Friday evening.
I sit in the rear of the SUV wearing a black tux.
Taylor and I are parked outside of Miss Steele's apartment.
I am nervous.
Sure – on Monday, I demanded that Miss Steele attend the HEROES Charity Gala with me as a work obligation. I also purchased her a gown with accessories for the event, which were delivered to her office on the 19th floor on Wednesday.
I know that me getting her that dress irritated her far more than me requiring her to attend the gala and potentially cancelling any Friday plans that she may have had.
If she has a problem with me buying her things – which she obviously does – she needs to get over it.
I quickly reflect on the past week.
I was somewhat able to put that dance from last Saturday behind me.
Miss Steele also never brought it up, which made it easy to do so.
On Wednesday, Miss Steele surprised me by presenting me with the current year business plan for Elite Technologies. I didn't know that they had one in the first place. Later on that day, my team and I met with Lucas Woods. What could have been a disaster ended up going surprisingly well. In fact, Woods came in fully prepared to answer all of my questions.
I know Woods is quite fond of Miss Steele.
Did she have anything to do with how well things turned out in that meeting?
If so, I'm not sure if I like the idea of her advocating for a man who has proven time and time again to be incapable of running a business.
I still want him gone.
I so happen to look out of my window.
I see a vision that completely takes my breath away.
Miss Steele has surfaced.
She's wearing the gown and shoes that I purchased for her.
The fuchsia silk dress hugs her every curve.
Her hips gently rock to the rhythm of her walk.
Her breasts stand at attention.
The dying sunlight reflects back on her shimmering Jimmy Choos.
Luckily my windows are tinted, so Miss Steele can't see my jaw lying paralyzed on the floor.
Holy hell, she's beautiful.
Get it together, Grey.
But when the rear car door opens, I still can't stop gaping at her – even though she can now see me.
She scoots in and takes her seat besides me.
"You look sensational, Miss Steele," I murmur.
"Thank you," she says with a shy grin.
Damn – I can't get over how beautiful this woman looks.
On one hand, I have myself to blame for buying her that dress.
On the other hand, I'm so glad that she's wearing the dress that I bought her.
She could have worn anything else.
Yeah – she was rather feisty when she confronted me in my office on Wednesday about the dress. She even insisted that she supply her own attire for future work events upon finding out that I purchased the dress and not the company.
Tonight, she proudly adorns the controversial gown.
I am now tempted to continue buying her clothes.
There's this feeling of satisfaction that comes with dressing up such a beautiful woman. I may not be in the market for a submissive, but this might be the next best thing. There's a sense of pride that comes with seeing Miss Steele what what I bought just for her.
However, the problem dealing with Miss Steele is that I have to justify everything before she is willing to accept shit from me. It's quite exhausting having to strategize and come up with different ways for her to feel confident about taking gifts from me.
I wonder if this will ever change.
At the Gala, I introduce Miss Steele to a few business associates. Every so often in conversation, I catch men from a side-glance staring at my...well…my support manager.
At the end of the day, this is a business function. GEH is a top contributor, if not the top for the 'Helping Everyone to Reach Over Everyday Struggle' organization. It's been a cause near and dear to my family for many, many years.
It's true...Miss Steele isn't really my date at this event. She was well informed when she took the job as my support manager that she would be required to attend GEH sponsored events, even if they take place on nights or weekends.
However, the admiring looks that she's getting from men, some of them with dates and wives present…it doesn't quite sit well with me.
Yeah, she may not be my 'date' – but I still feel very protective and possessive of her.
Miss Steele appears to be the belle of the ball. She easily outshines every single woman here. Even the most decorated pieces of arm candy in the ballroom…the infamous trophy wives – Miss Steele leaves them all in the dust.
Suddenly, I'm startled when I look over and discover Dr. Flynn across the way talking to someone. He appears to have come here without his wife. Perhaps they had trouble nailing down a sitter for their two young boys for the night.
I decide to step away from present company in order to give John a head's up about Miss Steele.
I'm quite certain he'll be eager to finally meet her face to face.
I just hope that he doesn't blow his cover. I'm not interested in anyone, much less my support manager finding out about me consulting a shrink for many years due to my fucked up past.
"I'll be just a second," I quietly tell Miss Steele.
She nods and I quickly step off and intercept Flynn across the way.
As soon as he sees me, he immediately stops speaking to his company and gives me his full-undivided attention.
"Christian – good to see you here," Flynn says sincerely.
"John…there's someone here that I want you to meet," I say, fighting a smirk.
Suddenly, Flynn's expression of pleasant surprise turns into complete shock.
"Is she here?"
"Yes. That's her over there in the fuchsia gown."
Flynn peers over my shoulder. Suddenly, his eyes open big and wide. He abruptly pulls them away from her and gapes at me.
"Well, Christian…I see your 'problem'. Sweet lord," he mutters the last two words under his breath.
Hell, I don't have much time.
I must get back to Anastasia before she suspects something.
"In a few minutes, make your way over to us. I will introduce you to her as my 'associate'. I don't want her to know what our exact um…predicament is," I say discretely.
"Are you sure you want us to meet? You don't have to do this," he voices his apprehension.
"No, I want you to meet her. Get a feel for her. Then you can tell me next week during our appointment if I'm crazy for being conflicted over her," I say with a grin.
"I can give you the answer to your question right now if you'd like," Flynn winces before stealing yet another look at my hot support manager.
My eyes slowly narrow at him in disapproval.
He catches my displeased expression and chuckles in amusement.
"I'll see you in a few," I say before I walk away, returning to Miss Steele.
Shortly afterwards, Flynn swings by while Miss Steele and I are standing among several people who are talking my ear off.
"Excuse us," I politely nod as I usher Miss Steele away by the small of her back.
"Miss Steele, I'd like you to meet an associate of mine. This is John Flynn. John – meet Anastasia Steele, my new support manager," I introduce.
Miss Steele's eyes grow wide and she grins, while Flynn appears to be way too eager to meet her.
Why does she look so pleasantly surprised?
Surely she's never met my therapist.
Or has she?
I brush away the wayward thought.
"My word – so you're the new muscle in town," he greets her.
Bloody hell, John. Simmer down.
"I supposed so," she says bashfully.
I roll my eyes and when they land, I see two familiar faces across the way.
Fuck – it's my parents!
I had no idea that they would be here tonight.
I thought they had a conflict.
"Excuse me for a moment," I murmur to both John and Miss Steele before quickly taking off.
As I march ahead, I secretly hope that Flynn doesn't say entirely too much. However at the same time, I'm not overly worried.
Dr. Flynn has a way of pulling things out of people without showing his hand.
He's very good at what he does.
"Christian!"
My mother is pretty excited when she sees me. She quickly turns away from her friends and embraces me with a hug.
"Mom…Dad," I greet the two of them.
My father Carrick and I shake hands.
"Son, good to see you," Carrick speaks in his 'dad voice'.
"Did you come here alone?" Grace says out of the blue.
Oh no.
Instantly, I know that I am going to regret answering her question. She's going to make a big deal out of nothing…much like her son, Elliot.
But she'll be way worse.
"This is a GEH sponsored event, as you know. I brought my brand new support manager here with me," I say matter-of-factly.
"Oh," Grace replies. And I can't help but immediately pick up on her subtle sense of disappointment, even though she tries to hide it.
I know my mother yearns for me to be with someone. I think she particularly wishes that this 'someone' were a lady.
You know…that whole ordeal about wanting grandchildren.
Well, she needn't hold her breath with me.
She'll have better luck with Elliot and Mia.
I suspect that Grace thinks that I'm gay.
She has never seen me with a woman.
However, she would never have the heart to ask me that.
Anastasia had no qualms asking me if I was gay.
I smile recalling the memory.
Oh, Miss Steele – aren't you so inquisitive.
Suddenly, I am eager to rejoin her.
I wonder how she's making out with Flynn.
"By the way, John Flynn's here. In fact, he's currently speaking with my support manager," I inform my parents.
"Oh, Dr. Flynn's here?" mother perks up.
I begin to walk back towards Flynn and Miss Steele while my parents trail close behind.
Shit!
I start to clam up, but I fight my objections.
I guess Miss Steele will be meeting my folks tonight.
Here goes nothing.
Flynn perks up even more the moment my parents arrive on the scene.
"Oh Christian – I see that you found two wanderers," John beams.
He reaches in to hug Grace and pecks her on the cheek. Afterwards, he firmly shakes Carrick's hand.
I witness Grace gaping over at Miss Steele with utter astonishment.
Fuck.
I brace for the absolute worse.
"I guess I'll resume my quest for more hors d'oeuvres. It was nice seeing everyone. And Ana – such a pleasure to meet you," Flynn says way too eagerly. He takes Ana by the hand and bows.
"Nice meeting you too," she says sweetly before Flynn leaves.
A knot forms in my stomach.
What in the hell did they talk about?
Why does Flynn look pleased with himself?
Part of me wants Flynn to remain as the shield between my parents and I.
Things can only go downhill from here.
I turn to look at my parents. As usual, my father remains casual and composed.
Grace on the other hand…
She's totally going to make me regret doing this.
"Anastasia, this is Dr. Grace Trevelyan Grey and Carrick Grey. Mom, Dad…meet Anastasia Steele, my new support manager," I introduce.
Just when I think things couldn't get any worse, they absolutely do.
Miss Steele now appears as eager as my mother.
"My gosh! Mr. and Dr. Grey! It is such a pleasure to meet you!" she gushes.
Holy hell.
Why is she so eager to meet my parents?
"Oh – the pleasure is truly all mine. And please, call me Grace," my mother says, way too excited to take her by the left hand.
Fuck – is Grace is really looking for a wedding ring on Anastasia's hand?!
I instantly see the relief spread on my mother's face the instant she discovers that Miss Steele isn't in fact wearing one.
I catch my father finally breaking character. He rolls his eyes at Grace, showing that he's just as annoyed by her actions as I am.
"Nice to meet you. Call me Carrick," my father says, snapping back into character.
"Oh Christian, she is simply a doll! You are gorgeous, Anastasia! Just look at you!" Grace harps.
I could curl up in a hole right now and remain there for the remainder of the evening. This night is now a complete disaster.
"So…where are you two sitting?" Grace eagerly asks.
I wish I were sitting in my car heading home.
I don't feel like dealing with this shit.
Grace is blowing this business event up way out of proportion.
"Over there," I say, randomly pointing to the general area.
"Great – we'll sit with you and Anastasia for a few," she sparkles.
I frown harshly at my mother, but she refuses to take the hint. However, it does appear that Carrick feels my pain, but he's unfortunately caught up in his wife's shenanigans.
At the table, I decide to confront my parents concerning their attendance tonight. They didn't even warn me that they would be here.
If they did, I might have reconsidered bringing Miss Steele.
I can't trust Grace to hold it together when seeing me with an attractive, single young woman.
"Mother, I didn't know that you and Father were coming here tonight."
"Christian dear, your father and I have been giving to this charity since you were a little boy," my mother responds.
Yeah, yeah…I know.
I just didn't think that they would come here tonight. My parents both know how involved my company has been with HEROES. They could have disclosed the fact that they would be present tonight.
"So Anastasia…" Grace starts.
Dear Lord.
"Please…call me Ana," Miss Steele insists.
It appears that Miss Steele and my mother are way too eager to be in the other's company.
For my mother, it's the simple fact that I came here with a woman.
However, for Miss Steele – I think that she feels that my mother can fill in some of the blanks for her. I think back to the time that she and I had dinner and she was way too eager to learn more about my family.
Now, they sit before her.
I just hope that she doesn't ask my folks questions that are too personal.
And vice versa.
"Ana – so what type of work do you do for Christian?"
So, not a personal question. However, I know my mother.
Grace is fishing.
"I do whatever Mr. Grey needs me to do," Miss Steele replies.
My mother's jaw drops.
Oh no.
"Mr. Grey?! Christian – you don't make this sweet girl call you that, do you?" Grace gapes at me in shock.
Geez!
She works for me, Grace.
Everyone at GEH calls me 'Mr. Grey'.
However, I'm certain that this answer will present my mother with more questions than answers.
"No Mother, I don't," I say, way too annoyed.
I turn to Miss Steele and see her looking perplexed.
It's true, Miss Steele.
I've never told you to address me as me 'Mr. Grey'.
In fact, you've called me 'Christian' twice before if I recall correctly.
The first occurred just as you left my office for the very first time.
"So Ana…when Christian was a little boy and started playing the piano…"
I sense the sheer hunger for knowledge reflecting in Miss Steele's eyes as my mother starts on her tangent.
Fuck this.
I'm not letting Grace go off on a rampage telling her embarrassing stories about my awkward ass childhood.
"Mother…please," I interrupt.
"Don't 'Mother please' me! I'm talking to sweet Ana here," she snaps back.
I sigh in exasperation and jerk upwards in my chair.
I wish my parents would just leave and go back to their friends.
"Do you play any instruments, Ana?" inquires Grace.
Shit – she's probing.
She wants to know if Ana and I have anything in common.
"No, I don't. I was more into literature growing up," Miss Steele explains.
"Oh my goodness…so was Christian! You two have so much in common!" gushes Grace.
Yep – I knew that's exactly what Grace was up to.
I'm completely flabbergasted.
Miss Steele gave her an inch, yet Grace takes a fucking mile.
And although Miss Steele continues to grin warmly at my mother, whenever her eyes fall on mines, she flashes me looks of reluctance.
It's obvious that she senses my severe discomfort. Yet, she continues to be courteous to my parents.
"By the way Ana, your dress is to die for! You have excellent taste!"
"I would love to take credit for this lovely dress, but it was your son who picked it out."
What. In. The.
Flying. Fuck.
I feel utterly betrayed by my support manager.
It's as if Anastasia Steele just spat in my face.
She literally just pored gasoline on Grace's fire of giddiness.
Anastasia is quite the rebel.
She knows damn well what she's doing.
This is Miss Steele's payback for me buying her that goddamned dress in the first place.
And just when I thought that bygones were bygones.
Foolish me.
I have a mind to throw her over my knee and spank her hard.
I want to punish her.
I want to punish her badly.
Shit!
What am I thinking?!
I shake away those oh-so-familiar thoughts.
I can no longer think this way.
To distract myself, I turn to my mother. I tense up even more upon seeing her overly elated expression.
Grace is about to explode from extreme joy.
It's as if she's anxious to hop on the phone and book a church for the wedding.
It's disturbing.
"Oh my! That is sooooo adorable! Oh Christian – did you pick out this dress especially for Ana?"
FUCK!
"Yes," I hiss.
Get me the fuck outta here.
Please.
"Ana, sweetie – you have to come over to our place for dinner next Saturday. Do you know Elliot, Christian's brother and his new friend, Kate?" Grace asks giddily.
You've gotta be fucking kidding me.
Not only is my mother inviting my support manager over for family dinners, but Elliot told Grace about Katherine Kavanagh?
What a fucking sap!
He wasted no time! No time at all!
He fucking just met that girl last weekend!
Now, he's gushing about her to our parents and setting up dinner dates to introduce them. So the pressure is all on me now that Elliot has a new 'lady friend'.
And just when I thought that their encounter would be a brief one.
I'm utterly appalled.
"As a matter of fact, yes. Kate is actually my roommate," Miss Steele responds.
Fuck me with a sledgehammer.
"Oh my goodness! See! You and Christian are already connected outside of work! Might as well seal-the-deal, if you know what I mean," my mother touts with a wink.
No fucking way.
What in the hell's gotten in to Grace?!
Jesus!
I can't contain my horror.
Miss Steele is now beet red, appearing to regret her words.
Yeah, Anastasia – you just dropped an atom bomb.
Now I'm going to be left here picking up the pieces.
I'll have to live with my mother's disappointment the moment she realizes that I'm not trying to pursue a relationship with my support manager right now.
So what is this then?
Grey, you bought her a car.
You bought her that dress.
You kissed her…in your office.
I am so fucking confused.
I literally have no idea what I want.
I turn to look at her and she looks back at me.
Miss Steele looks shattered.
It's as if she can sense my internal struggle.
It's difficult to hide it.
I couldn't hide it even if I tried.
Crap.
"That's enough, Grace," Carrick whispers to his wife.
"What?" she responds, feigning innocent.
"Let's leave these two alone. We already have a table over with our friends."
Carrick doesn't give Grace a chance to respond as he stands and guides her reluctantly out of her chair.
Thank God.
Grace leans down towards me and kisses me on the cheek.
"You need to stop working so hard and come spend some time with your mother," she scolds.
"I'll try," I breathe.
My parents wave at both Miss Steele and I, leaving us alone.
The smile that was once on her face has since long gone.
Hell.
"I sincerely apologize for my mother's behavior."
"She was fine. Your parents are really nice."
She's trying to smile, but her guise doesn't fool me one bit.
Something's terribly wrong.
….
As Miss Steele and I leave the gala for the night and head outside towards the car, I glance down at my BlackBerry.
Andrea sent me a text over an hour ago.
Andrea Parker
8:24p: Mr. Grey, please forgive me for the disturbance. I tried to schedule that lunch meeting for next Wednesday with you and your executive team. Everyone is available at that time except for Ana. She has a private "Thank You" lunch meeting scheduled with Lucas Woods. Would you still like for me to schedule your meeting as planned?
A 'private lunch meeting' with Lucas Woods?!
She hasn't been open with me concerning her dealings with that slimy, useless asshole. Then it finally dawns on me.
That business plan Lucas put together was all her idea.
Shit – how can I be so stupid!
I knew that Lucas wasn't smart enough to initiate such a thing.
Lucas Woods is an underachiever. He only does the bare minimum to stay afloat.
He thinks that he can just get by with charisma alone.
He's not a leader. He's a waste of fucking space.
And now, he's using his charm on Miss Steele in order to keep me from firing him.
Now I have every reason to throw him right on his ass.
I am beyond furious.
I turn to look at Miss Steele, but she sits as far away from me as possible without falling out of the vehicle.
You're going to look at me one way or another, baby.
"I need those final reports from logistics. Make sure they have those to me by close of business Monday," I demand.
"Fine," she says, not even turning to look in my direction. Her eyes remain fixed on her window.
Well if that doesn't get you to turn and look at me, maybe this will.
"By the way, you told Woods to put together that business plan, didn't you?"
Like clockwork, she finally turns to face me.
I knew that would work.
Now, tell me I'm wrong.
"Does it matter?" she hisses bitterly.
So that's how you want to play this?
Perhaps you need a reminder Miss Steele.
You seemed to have forgotten whom you're talking to.
I can't contain my rage.
"No – but what does matter is that you are such an advocate for a man that has proved nothing but to be a complete louse and an extreme fuck up!"
"Christian, that's not true."
Whoa – did she just address me by my first name?
"Lucas wants nothing more than to see Elite Technologies succeed. He built that company from the ground up," she reasons.
And just when I thought I couldn't get any madder, I push directly into overdrive.
"I'm done with him! I'm firing him on Monday!"
And even though it's very dark in the car, I can see the color leave her face.
"Why?! He gave you everything you asked for! He has a plan to rebound!"
Holy hell…she just yelled at me. Yet, I'm too mad to even care.
"I don't give a fuck! And if you weren't so busy being snowed by him, you would be able to see the forest for the fucking trees!"
"I am off the clock, Grey! I'll see you on Monday! Good night!" she cries out with rage.
The second the car comes to a halt, Anastasia immediately leaps out.
Where the fuck is she going?!
As I leap out to go after her, I finally realize that we have indeed arrived at Miss Steele's apartment. I honestly had no clue where we were. I was way too occupied arguing with her.
"Ana!" I call out, rushing after her.
Damn, even wearing heels, she's quite fast.
As soon as I come within reach, I grab her and spin her around.
"Get your hands off of me! I told you to never yell at me!" she growls, pulling her arm back.
My chest collapses.
You've really done it now, Grey.
She's going to quit.
"Look – I'm sorry," I say out of mercy.
She flashes me a glare that chills my soul.
What have I done?
I've never seen such a beautiful girl look so angry.
Well, there was that one time in my office.
Yet, not even a kiss can salvage the mess that I made now.
"Why the sudden change of heart now? You were absolutely fine with Lucas' data on Wednesday!" she yells.
Relax Grey.
If you're composed, she will calm down.
"Look, I went overboard. I was just a little too worked up."
She's not buying it.
I decide to stand here and wait it out.
Well, at least she's still here. She hasn't run up to her apartment yet.
Miss Steele's visibly beginning to calm, but she still looks upset.
We need to talk.
I can't leave her like this.
"Look, can we talk?" I plead.
After a few beats, she still has yet to respond.
She's conflicted.
"Come, let's do coffee," I offer quietly.
She looks as if she's contemplating my offer.
Please…say yes.
"I…I have a coffee machine in the apartment if you'd like to come up," she stutters.
Holy shit.
She just invited me up to her apartment.
I can't.
I can't accept the offer.
I absolutely do not trust myself being alone with her.
Remember what happened in that elevator in Vegas?
But if I refuse her offer, she might feel rejected.
I don't want to give her the impression that I don't want to take her up on her offer.
Hell – let's be completely honest here.
I really want to see how she lives when she's not working for me at Grey House.
But what if her roommates are home?
What if Elliot's there with Katherine?
Fuck.
"Are your roommates home?" I ask.
She shakes her head in response.
Thank God.
"Sure. Wait here and I'll tell Taylor."
I turn and walk towards Taylor who's waiting outside of the SUV.
"Taylor, I'm going up to meet with Miss Steele. I'll text you when I'm ready to go."
"Certainly, Mr. Grey."
….
Her apartment is tiny.
Extremely tiny.
"And three of you live here?" I ask.
She hands me a cup of coffee as I sit on a bar stool in her kitchen.
She nods in response.
Holy shit. The three of them literally live on top of each other.
I cringe at the thought.
"So, where does Miss Kavanagh's brother sleep?" I ask.
"Right over there. That sofa pulls out into a bed," she says, pointing just feet away to the living room.
No, this will never do.
I need to do something about that.
She takes her mug of tea and sits on the vacant stool right beside me.
"So Miss Steele, I would like to address a remark you made earlier. You mentioned being 'off the clock'. However, due to your recent promotion, there is no such thing as being 'off the clock' for you," I tease.
She flashes me a shy smile before remembering herself.
She now takes on a more somber expression.
I wonder what's eating her.
Is she still upset with me?
"Look, give Lucas just a little more time. He's trending upward now, not downward," she pleads.
Not this asshole again.
Fuck – I thought that we were done talking about Woods.
But obviously, the matter of me firing him doesn't sit well with her.
Well, she isn't wrong.
Elite Technologies is slowly on the rise, although things aren't progressing as fast as I would like them to.
Hell, I've given Woods all of this time thus far. What's another month?
Maybe that'll satisfy Miss Steele.
"I'll give Woods one month to show 2% growth. That's all. One month."
"Two."
You've gotta be fucking kidding me.
She's trying to bargain with me.
I commend her for showing such nerve.
No one has ever negotiated with me as she has. She's quite the shrewd businesswoman.
"Fine. Two months to show 2% growth."
"See now? Was that hard?"
She appears to be quite pleased with herself.
Oh Miss Steele. Perhaps I should collect on the favor.
We are here alone in your apartment.
I can feel my groin begin to tense up at the thought.
Fuck – I knew I couldn't behave for long.
I'm here alone, with a very gorgeous woman.
She's a woman who knows exactly how to bring me down to my knees.
Oh boy…I sure would like to bring her down to hers.
"Don't make me regret my decision, Miss Steele," I purr.
My eyes lock right into hers.
She appears to be equally as lost as I am.
I slowly stand up to my feet.
Her eyes grow wide and her lips open up infinitesimally.
Without thinking, I guide her up from her stool and I eagerly yank her body into mine – just like I did on that barroom dance floor last Saturday.
There's just something about being in her presence.
I completely lose all sense of self-control.
Hell, I couldn't help myself even if I wanted to.
To my surprise, her face reflects my own willingness. I lower my face until just a pinch of air separates my lips from hers.
"Ana, you are so beautiful," I exhale.
Finally, our lips touch.
Our kiss gradually heats up.
I can hear our shallow breaths fill the small kitchenette.
As both of my hands go up and down her satin-clad back, her hands find my hair.
Holy shit.
There's no turning back now.
I am going to fuck my support manager tonight.
The sheer thought causes my hands to fall directly on her ass.
Oh yes…the feel of her.
She feels absolutely perfect.
I kiss her harder.
She kisses me harder.
A moan escapes her throat.
Fuck, I'm getting so hard.
I want her.
Here.
Now.
But I need to know if she wants this too.
I begin to rub my dick against her silk gown in search for an answer.
She moans again – much louder this time.
Oh yes…she wants it too.
She wants to fuck.
Oh God.
Yes – I need this.
I need this so badly.
I could come right now just rubbing up against her, imagining her sweet naked body wrapped up in mine.
Shit!
Her hands firmly grip my hair.
She wants this so bad.
Oh baby – I'm going to fuck you so good tonight.
I've waited so long for this very moment.
This very moment with you, my sweet Anastasia.
Ever since I first saw that beautiful round ass exit that elevator on your very first day at Grey House, I've wanted to take you into my possession and please your entire body.
I just hope that no one returns home tonight.
I'm going to make her scream out her pleasure all night long.
I'll probably want to fuck her twice.
Maybe even three times.
I'm ecstatic.
Perhaps I should take her back to my place.
Then we could do it all night without any interruption.
Yes. I need to take her home with me.
So what happens after sex?
Where will she sleep?
Oh no.
It's at that thought that it all comes crashing down.
I…I can't.
I can't do this.
I instantly pull my lips away from hers. My hands move up and away from her.
She looks completely stunned as she reclaims her hands from my hair.
I am so sorry, baby.
I'm not ready for this.
I can't.
I lower my head down.
I want to give her a goodbye kiss on her cheek.
Instead, I speak softly to her.
"Ana…I should go."
I can hear the disappointment in her exhale.
As I look at her, I see her heartbreaking disappointment.
Oh no.
Yes, she was just mine for the taking.
She wanted me to go all the way with her.
But little does she know, I have issues.
Severe issues.
How will I be able to explain to her that she cannot sleep in bed with me after sex?
She would never understand that.
I decide to find shelter behind my professional title.
I can't let her know the real reason why I can't have sex with her tonight.
As her head drops, I reclaim her eyes by gently lifting up her chin.
I need to see her.
"Ana, I am your boss."
She stands silent.
Shit.
I can feel it in the air.
She's not going to want to work for me for much longer.
Flynn warned me that she would leave if I didn't tell her how I truly felt.
But I can't tell her exactly how I feel about her.
Not now, anyway.
I'm just not ready.
However, I wouldn't be able to stand still and watch her walk away from my company simply because I continue to lead her on.
I can't keep giving her mixed signals.
I know that this may sound fucked up, but I need to keep her in this holding pattern that I have her in for just a little while longer.
I need her to wait.
"Look, I don't want you to leave. I mean…I need you with me – at Grey House. That's why we can't get involved outside of work. I wouldn't want you to quit if things outside of business didn't work out between us. And trust me, if you were to find out what I was really like, you wouldn't want anything to do with me."
I can't believe that those words just flew out of my mouth.
My words obviously baffle her.
It is apparent that I forced more questions for her as opposed to answers.
"Christian, I don't think that you give me enough credit," she says, choking up.
Fuck – she's on the verge of tears.
Her words ironically echo what Dr. Flynn has been telling me time and time again.
But I don't care what she says.
If she really knew what I was like beneath the surface, she would run away and never look back.
"No…I know you would leave. Look, Ana – as I've told you before, I'm working really hard here. I'm trying to…to change. However, changing is more difficult than I anticipated. As of right now, I'm just not all the way there yet. I'm not capable of being who you deserve. I…I'm so sorry for misleading you."
I finally said it.
She knows exactly where she stands now.
No more pulling her along on a string.
In fact, I may have just terminated the holding pattern.
No way she'll wait for me now to get my shit together.
Dread completely overtakes her sweet, blue eyes.
"Okay," she whispers.
The moment she takes a giant step backwards – away from me, my heart falls right down to my feet.
Oh no.
I'm losing her.
"Ana," I plead, extending my desperate hand out to her.
I want to tell her absolutely everything.
I want her to know that I'm fucked up and that I'm trying to fix it.
I want her to know…especially if it gets her to stay.
But I can't tell her.
She wouldn't understand.
She couldn't.
She glances at my hand dangling out there in mid air.
She looks mortified.
Fuck, it's useless.
My arm falls down to my side in total defeat.
"I'm sorry," I breathe out to her.
It's the only thing that I can say to her.
Yet, she remains emotionless.
Distant.
Well, that's it, Grey.
There's no turning back.
I turn to leave.
As I shut the door behind me, it literally feels like I just 'closed the door' on all hope of 'more' between Ana and I.
Forever.
A/N: In the next chapter, Christian completely loses his ever-loving mind when he discovers that Ana is trying to mend her broken heart by dating other men.
If you want a refresh as you wait for the next chapter, the ordeal takes place in chapter 14 of "Business and Pleasure" (Ana's POV).
Thanks for reading! – ST2