Twin Flames

by Philaenis

Some call it miraculous, some call it fate and some even call it serendipity, while others believe it is all nothing more than coincidence. What if love is so strong that it does transcend time, space and multiple dimensions? Or is this just what we like to believe? A Christian and Ana love story. MA rated later chapters AU, HEA. Different, but give it a try.

14. Christian and Anastasia

Anastasia and Christian

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Faith is a passionate intuition.

(William Wordsworth 1770-1850)

Hong Kong, January 5, 2007

I stare over the Hong Kong skyline the city is vibrant and bustling with life. The last five years my company has really taken off and if this deal goes through I will be one of the wealthiest and powerful men in the world at the tender age of 23. The thought is both invigorating and daunting for it means that the livelihood of over 30.000 people will depend on my competence, intelligence and the decisions that I make. I idly wonder if this is how Alexander the Great felt when he ruled all of Macedonia, Greece and Anatolia at my age.

I relish control I was born to be in control. Cool, controlled and calculated has become my mantra. From the outside, I seem to have it all wealth, power and good looks but no one really knows how fucked up I am. They have no idea that I suffer from insomnia and night terrors. I am often angry, snappy and moody. The simple fact is that I am not happy with my life and through long sessions with my new shrink Dr Flynn I am slowly uncovering the source of my misery and it is scaring the hell out of me and I can and will never ever admit to it.

There have been a lot of speculation about my love life people wonder why someone like me does not have a girlfriend or has ever been seen with a woman in public beside my mother and sister. Some people even wonder if I am gay and afraid to come out of the closet.

It makes me smile if I was gay my life would have been so much easier. The truth about my sexuality, however, is rather exotic some even might call it borderline depraved. I don't do relationships or form any emotional bond with the women I fuck. I am mentally and emotionally unable to do that. Especially not after the whole debacle with Leila Williams. She came after me while I was at Harvard demanding a relationship with me. I told her that I was not interested in her in that way and that she should leave me alone. Unfortunately, Leila was to far gone she had suffered a psychotic breakdown and began stalking me. In the end, she slid her wrists in front of me and if it wasn't for James medical training and coolheadedness she would have died right then and there. She lives in a mental institution in Connecticut now and I cannot help but feel responsible for what she has gone through.

The experience has scarred me deeply and I never want to experience something like that again. That's why all the women I fuck are contracted submissives. They are not allowed to touch me, look me in the eye, speak to me unless they are spoken to or kiss me. I also do not kiss them I avoid any form of intimacy it will only blur the lines for them but in the end it does not seem to matter they all end up wanting more. The rules I set out for them are set and clear. Love, intimacy and romance have no place within my sexual relationships. I also demand exclusivity and absolute confidentiality with all of them.

I am strictly monogamous in relationships while at Harvard I experimented with threesomes and orgies in an exclusive BDSM club but it was not for me and I ended up leaving the establishment prematurely. I don't like the to share and be shared I never have and never will.

In return, I shower them with material things keeping them happy. It is both sad and funny to see how easily amendable some women are when you shower them trinkets, shoes and clothes.

I sigh and take a sip from my finely aged cognac before walking to my laptop. I am anxiously waiting on word from Luke Sawyer. I assigned him 2 years ago as covert protection detail to the Steele's after they moved to Argentina.

The memory of them leaving still cools my blood I had never felt so out of control and powerless in my life. Believe me, I tried to prevent them from going, from taking her away from me, but I had been unsuccessful. We were invited to the Steele's for Sunday lunch it was spring break and the weather in Seattle had been exceptionally warm and mild for that time of year.

During lunch, Ray dropped the bombshell taking all of us by surprise. His pet project Icarus a plane that is specifically designed for high altitude flying was in its final testing phase. But due to cost reduction and flight regulations of the Federal Aviation Administration they were not allowed to test it in the US. Because of the way the plane was designed it needed to be launched from a high altitude. A mountain region like the Mendoza region in Argentina provided the perfect conditions to test the plane.

The Cramer's had asked Ray to oversee the project in its final phase and he was more than happy to oblige even if it meant moving to Argentina for four years. Since Anastasia was only 14 at the time and still a minor she needed to go with them. James who was still studying medicine at Harvard remained in the US. I was furious how was I supposed to look after them and keep them save when she all the way in freaking Argentina?

I ordered Ros the next day to start due diligence on Blackbird Aerotechnics I was willing to buy the company to prevent them from leaving. The Cramers, however, sole shareholders of the company were unwilling to sell no matter how much I offered. So I did what I always do when I was denied something I set my sights on bankrupting them. Normally my business dealings no matter how brutal they are out in the open it is what earned me the nickname Wolverine. Dealing with the Cramer's, however, requires a more duplicitous approach since they are long time friends of my parents. And I do not want to be responsible for destroying that friendship that is why it is still an ongoing process.

When the Steele's left my insomnia and night terrors came back in full force. My world became darker and bleaker. According to Flynn, my attachment to Anastasia re-triggered my PTSS and abandonment issues. But I do not believe that.

He spends hours analyzing my relationship with Ana and I really do not like what he has to say most of the time it is disturbing and fucked up.

Having Sawyer shadowing the Steele's gives me a little peace of mind knowing that they are protected and alright. My email pings like always Sawyer is punctual I am hoping he has included some photo's with this rapport. It has been almost two years since I have last seen the Steele's, James excluded.

I open the attachment and a pang of disappointed stabs my heart there are no pictures, but I begin to read Sawyers rapport anyway.

Apparently the tests with Icarus are on schedule and the plane is performing greatly. Carla has another new hobby this week, it is knitting and I wonder what happened to scented candle making. Anastasia is doing great at school she skipped a class this year this information makes me swell with pride. She is still spending allot of time with Barbara Fisher and Gabriel Crest. For some reason, I am not really happy that she is spending so much time with the Crest boy I get the impression that he wants to be more than just friends with her. Ana is 16 way to young to be thinking about boys if she was in the US James and I would have thrown Gabriel into the Puget sound if he came anywhere near her. Elliot and I did that with one of Mia boyfriend's once under the guise of taking him sailing. I let Taylor fish him out of the water with another boat. It worked he never bothered Mia again even though we both ended up on Mia's shitlist for a month it was well worth it.

I continue reading the rapport Norbitt is doing well too he is still going to a school for special needs children. The Steele's officially adopted him 5 years ago after his birth mother finally give him up because she could not handle him anymore, it is sad really.

There is a knock on the door of my hotel room it's probably Taylor or Ros. Ros and I are planning on having one final strategy meeting before tomorrow's negotiations with the Chinese. If we manage to take over this shipping company we will be the largest oversea transport company in the world. We will also become the part owners of one of the busiest ports in the world a central hub between Europe, Asia and the America's. The revenue from this deal can be as high as 8.3 billion dollars a year and that is a conservative estimate.

I walk to the door and open it, it is Taylor.

'Good evening sir they send another one.' I sigh irritated ever since these negotiations started the opposing party has sent expensive escorts to my suite. I know it's normal within some business circles and even though I have not had a sub in two months I am just not interested. Only fools would get involved with escorts during negotiations like this. I have heard plenty of stories of men and women that were blackmailed during negotiations after an illicit tryst.

'Send her away Taylor.' I growl.

'It is a guy this time sir.' And I cannot help but chuckle I find rumors about my sexuality amusing.

'Tell him to tell his bosses that I am not interested in any... extra service they offer.' Taylor nods at me remaining impassive like always he knows all about my predilections.

'Certainly sir. Will that be all?'

'No, tell Ros to swing by. I need to speak with her.'

'Yes, sir.' He quickly replies before shuffling off.

I close the door and head back to my laptop I was not finished reading the Steele rapport. But before I can begin again I am interrupted by my blackberry. It is Marcus Pratt head of technological acquisitions.

'Grey.' My voice is clipped.

'Mr Grey, it's Marcus Pratt are we still interested in Blackbird Aerotechnics?

My heart jumps in my throat hell yeah! But like always I remain impassive while answering Marcus question.

'Yes, we are if the price is right.' I reply coolly.

'Harold Cramer contacted us he wants to part with his shares and his son is not interested in having them. The company isn't doing too well and I am guessing old man Cramer wants to hold on to his fat pension.'

'Did you do due diligence on the company yet?'

'No, sir he just contacted us I will see to it immediately. I am pretty sure the value of the company will be a lot lower then it was two years ago.'

'What figure did the old man mention to part with his shares?' I ask curious to know what the old man is thinking of.

'He mentioned something in the line of 20 million.' Marcus answers quickly and I scoff.

'20 mil? Is he insane? They were worth 20 mil maybe 2 years ago but not in today's market. Do the due diligence and come back to me asap. Oh, Marcus tell him I have three additional demands I want to be the majority shareholder, I want Ray Steele pulled from the Icarus program and offered the CEO position, Richard can stay on the board of directors. You got that Marcus?'

'Yes sir'

'Good.' I say and hang up the phone to open the door for Ros.

'Rosalyn guess what?' I say grinning at her and she glares at me.

'Don't call me fucking Rosalyn, Christian.' She barks I ignore her and give her a sly smile.

'The Cramers are finally willing to sell Blackbird.'

Anastasia

Malargüe Argentina January 26, 2007

I cannot believe this! Two years ago they dragged me away from my friends and school because of dad's work and now that I am completely settled here they drag me back to Seattle.

I hate having to leave everything behind for the second time around. When we first got here I had a really hard time adjusting I could hardly speak Spanish and I missed my friends and life in Bellevue. I felt like an outcast at the international school my parents send me to. I have always been shy and bookwormy, but I had friends at Weston prep. Most of the girls at the Argentinian international school are snobby and catty not the kind of girls I would normally befriend. But my mom told me to be open for new kinds of people and give everyone an honest chance. In this case, my mom's advice sucked.

It did not help that I attracted the attention of some of the boys at AIS it made some of the popular girls see green with envy and when they learned about Norbitt the Caty-ness only got worse solidifying my position as an outcast.

They would often call me names, mock or ignore me when I tried to sit with them during lunch break.

After a particularly humiliating experience where one of the girls threw a yogurt cup over me and made some really nasty comments about Norbitt, I gave up trying. I spend my lunches alone with a book under my favorite oak tree on the school grounds. I never felt so miserable and alone in my life I missed Mia and Kate and desperately wanted to go back to Bellevue.

Until I met Barbara and Gabriel. My mom insisted that I joined the school's music club, which for once proved to be good advice. I was a bit reluctant at first although I love music it is not my big passion but when I met Gabriel and Barbara I was very glad I did.

Barbara is goth, a little overweight, gawky and very outspoken but also funny and smart as hell. She does not care what other people think or say about her and always manages a brilliant retort at every nasty comment people throw at her. She is completely at ease with herself and I secretly wish that I had her strength and confidence. She has a younger brother Daniel and her parents are expats like mine.

Gabriel is the very opposite of her he is always meticulously dressed slender, reserved, graceful very intelligent and well spoken. Just like me he over thinks everything he is very sensitive and often lets nasty comments get to him. But he is also one of the kindest and sweetest people I know he could not hurt a fly and I mean that literally. He is an only child his mother is Argentinian and his father is American he was born in Minnesota, but his parents moved to Argentina when he was nine.

After our first meeting, we clicked and quickly became inseparable it felt really nice to have friends again and share stuff with. I learned to speak Spanish and really emerged myself into Argentinian culture. Gabriel knows all the best local hotspots in Malargüe and he dragged us to all of them. He has quite some friends within the Malargüen arts community. We often go to see plays of his actor friends and we like to take Norbitt with us he loves the theater. The weather here is much nicer than Seattle its always sunny and dry I have come to really love my life here and now I have to leave everything behind again because of my dad's work.

The company he works for has a new owner and dad has been offered a job as CEO back in Seattle, of course, he is dragging all of us with him back to the states and I hate it.

'Ana honey have you packed all your stuff yet?' Mom asks while popping her head into my room and I have to resist the urge to roll my eyes at her. I really hate it that she can drop everything she has built here and leave without a second thought just to accommodate my dad's career.

'No.' I say snappier than I intended.

'Oh, sweetheart we are leaving in two days! And the movers will be here tomorrow to collect all the big stuff. Do you need help packing to speed things up?' She inquires good natured as always.

'No mom I am fine.' I say tersely she sighed and looks at me concerned for a moment I am pretty sure she is going to give me one of her famous pep talks about how everything will work out just fine until Norbitt burst into my room thankfully distracting her from her train of thoughts.

'Annie look what I found.' He said while jumping up down excitedly and I cannot help but smile at him.

'Please, show me Norbitt.'

He opens his hand and a small green lizard looks at me wide eyed.

My mom shudders in disgust.

'Oh, Norbitt darling I told you not to bring them inside the house. Quickly put him back outside before Mathilda finds him. And wash your hands when you are done we are having dinner when your dad gets home.' She says sternly.

'Geez mom, it's just a lizard. I like him Norbitt thank you for showing him to me.' Norbitt beams at me clearly happy that I liked the lizard but then grumbles an apology to my mom, making me feel sorry for him.

'Yes, mom and thank you, Annie.' He says before leaving my room presumably to put the lizard back outside again. My mother sighs and looks at me.

'Don't encourage him Anastasia who knows what kind of diseases these animals carry with them. I am going to see if Mrs Cruz has finished dinner yet.' I roll my eyes at her when she walks out of my room, sometimes my mom really annoys me.

We are sitting at the dinner table and dad is talking enthusiastically about his new job. Apparently primary testing of the Icarus program has been completed and he can oversee the rest of the project as CEO of Blackbird from Seattle. Mom is beaming at him with unconcealed pride it's irritating and my mood sours. Everything is always about my dad and his freaking job. No one ever asked me what I want or how I feel.

'It's a good thing we did not sell the house when we left Ray. Having to go house hunting again in Bellevue at such short notice would have been impossible.' Mom gushes.

'It is indeed I am strapped for time as it is! This new job is going to be even more demanding. But don't worry honey I will always make time for our family. ' Dad says chuckling.

Yeah right, I think bitterly.

'Norbitt sweetheart use your fork.' Mom admonishes Norbitt who is shoving in a large piece of beef chimichurri in his mouth with his hands. He grumbles something and grabs his fork.

'Did they finally tell you what company took over Blackbird? I don't understand why they have to be so secretive about it.' Mom asks chipper and for some reason my anger keeps surging. They are destroying my life and they act like nothing is the matter.

'According to Richard the moratorium is only for a few weeks until everything is settled and the ink on the papers is dry. The company that has bought the majority of the shares will make an official announcement then.' Dad says while taking a bite of broccoli.

'Well, it still does not explain why they are so secretive.' Mom states with a flourish.

'Before I forget the principal of Saint Agnes school for girls called me and informed me that they have a spot for Ana. She tried to call you but got no answer so she called me instead.' Dad says chipper. What?

'What do you mean?' I ask bemused.

'Your mother and I enrolled you into Saint Agnes. They have an excellent program for smart girls like you. It is one of the best schools in the country with a long waiting list. Luckily your mom knows the principal.' he says like it's no big deal.

I am so angry I want to throw my plate at his head. How dare they enroll me in a school without consulting me first! They make all kinds of decisions that affect my life, but they never ever ask what I want or how I feel about it.

'So let me get this straight you two decided to enroll me in a school without asking me first!? I wanted to go to Ashford the same school Mia is in! I don't want to go to an all-girls catholic school.' I yell angrily.

'Anastasia please.' Mom says soothingly, but it only enrages me more.

'The last time I checked we are still your parents and you are still a minor it is only natural that we make decisions for you. We only have your best interest at heart Annie.' Dad says with an air of finality.

'NO! You have YOUR best interest at heart everything in this family revolves around you and your stupid job. First you drag me from Bellevue to Malargüe without asking me how I feel about that, I had to leave my friends and life behind. And when I finally rebuild everything here and made some new friends and a new life you drag me back to Bellevue without a care for what I want or what I think and feel. And now you enroll me in a school without asking me anything again because you feel that I should go to an all-girls school.

You are a liar and a hypocrite you never put James on an all-boys school nor did you care how many girlfriends he had. But when I want to go out with a boy I can't because I am too 'young' to date.' I seethe and I can't stop the angry tears that are falling from my eyes I hate it when that happens.

Mom looks at me in shock and dad looks furious, but I don't care.

'Anastasia don't ever speak to me like that again I am your father and I deserve some respect. We have given you everything to make sure you got the best in life and now you are acting like an ungrateful spoiled little brat. Boys your age are only after one thing and one thing alone and when they see a beautiful girl like you; they will go crazy. Well, I'll be damned before my only daughter becomes a teen mom with a child from some limp dick. Boys and girls are different I wish it was not the case, but it is.' He says irately.

What a ridicules and sexist argument!

'I know all about the birds and the bees dad, there is a huge difference between dating a guy and sleeping with a guy. It is funny how easy you waltz all over me. You have not heard a word I said it is becoming a theme in this family. Let's all ignore what Anastasia wants or thinks it is not important at all because daddy knows best. Well, I am done with it I am not going to Saint Agnes not even if you drag me there.' I get up and throw my napkin on the table and storm of to my room. If he thinks he can dictate me like that he has another thing coming.

'Anastasia Rose Steele get back her right now.' I hear him yell after me, but I ignore him; see how he likes to get a piece of his own medicine.

I hear him get up from the table, but my mom stops him.

'Ray leave her be she will come around.' She says with her usual soft melodic voice. Of course, she ends up taking his side she always does. I slam the door to my bedroom shut and lock it I don't want to talk to either of my parents right now. I put on my PJ's and brush my teeth before crawling into my bed letting the tears fall freely.

I don't know when I fell asleep last night but when I woke up it was 10 in the morning already, not that it matters I don't have to go to school anyway since we are moving tomorrow.

I get up, unlock my door and go into my bathroom ensuite to take a long hot shower I don't want to go downstairs and face my parents although dad is probably at work which is a relieve.

I walk back into my room I don't have a lot of clothes left most are in boxes already so I opt for blue jeans and a white tank top. There is a knock on my door and I know it's my mom probably carrying a peace offering.

'Ana sweetheart are you awake?'

I sigh and open the door before sitting back on my bed.

'I brought you some breakfast.' She says while putting a try on my nightstand.

'Thanks.' I say monosyllabic, not looking at her.

She sighs and sits next to me.

'Baby girl I know this is hard for you I know how much you like it here. When we moved here it was temporary you know that. We are only leaving sooner than we previously anticipated. It is not fair to you, your dad and I realize that all too well. But sometimes in life things happen that are not fair; what really counts is how we deal with those things.

Both your dad and I have made a mistake by not including you in allot of the decisions we made. It is not because we do not value your opinions, but you have to understand for us you are still our little baby girl that we have to take care for and protect. It is very hard for us to see that you are growing up so fast. You are a strong willed, intelligent and beautiful young woman. It is hard for us to let you go and let you make your own decisions. For us, you will always be our baby girl.' She takes a strand of hair and moves it behind my ear.

'Mom it is always you who is apologizing he never once said he was sorry when he screwed up. I am tired of it, I am tired of his dictates I am tired of him treating me like some errant child, I am tired of him not taking me seriously and I am tired of you always taking his side.

I work really hard at school my grades are good I even skipped a class this year and I have never done anything stupid or betrayed your trust. Yet he acts like he can't trust me with his stupid no boyfriend rule, James never had a no girlfriend rule and his argument on the difference between boys and girls is downright stupid.'

'I know sweetheart I have talked to him about that give me a little more time and he will come around. Is there is boy, in particular, you have an interest in?' She asks while cocking her eyebrow at me.

'No.' I say petulantly. My mom looks at me like she is trying to determine if I am truthful.

'I thought you liked Gabriel.'

I snort loudly.

'We are just friends mom.'

She nods at me before continuing with trepidation in her voice.

'Anastasia I know we talked about the birds and the bees and maybe it is time for some birth control just in case you meet a boy you really like. Even though it is hard for us seeing you grow up sooner or later reality will come knocking on our door. ' She says softly. Is she serious right now? From no boys to birth control in less than 24 hours?

I roll my eyes at her.

'There is not much chance of that happening anytime soon since you two are sending me to an all-girls school. I still don't want to go their, mom.' And I know my voice sounds whiny.

My mom sighs.

'Ana we are not sending you to an all-girls school because we don't want you to date.' I glare at her and she amends her words.

'Well at least that is not my motivation, Saint Agnes as an amazing program for gifted children and I truly believe that they offer the best education money can buy. Besides Kate goes there too you know that don't you?' Mom asks quizzically and I am confused.

'I thought Kate went to Ashford, last time that I spoke with her she was still going there. She is not even a catholic!'

'She was going to Ashford, but Dana and Eamon were a bit concerned when rumors started to circulate about Kate's... promiscuity they felt she would be safer at an all-girls school. Grace told me that Mia wants to switch as well now that both you and Kate will go to Saint Agnes.' Mom says with a conspiratory tone.

Kate promiscuous? I really don't believe that I know she had a boyfriend or two, but Kate is far from a slut. Regardless knowing that both of my friends are going to Saint Agnes makes it a little less painful for me. Although I am still not happy with the fact that my parents made the decision for me and not with me.

'I still don't like that you and dad make me go there without consulting me first.' I say sullenly.

'I know sweetheart and I'm sorry but what's done is done. I will talk to your dad about apologizing to you as well. So are we ok now baby girl? 'She asks sounding hopeful.

I sigh I am still a little angry with them, but the prospect of Saint Agnes is less daunting now that I know that my friends will be there too. I sigh loudly and fidget with my bedsheets.

'I suppose.' I say sullenly.

She gently strokes my hair and looks at me with motherly concern.

'I promise you, sweetheart, everything will be alright.'

Seattle Washington February 10, 2007

Christian

I am sitting in my office at Grey house running through my schedule with Andrea. Today the moratorium of my takeover of Blackbird Aerotechnics expires and it is time to declare myself. I am rather anxious about Ray's reaction when he finds out I am his new boss.

I am happy they are safely back in their home in Bellevue I sleep allot better now knowing that they are close by and ok, I am planning on visiting them soon. I cannot wait to see Steel's again it has been two years since I last saw her.

Mia was very happy that she came back too, so much so that she wanted to swap schools. Mom and dad were reluctant at first Saint Agnes is a Catholic school and we are not Catholics.

But when Kate was swapping Ashford for Saint Agnes school for girls my parents relented. I for one am very happy that both Mia and Ana will attend an all-girls school.

'Andrea, what time am I meeting with the Blackbird people?'

'10:30 sir, your meeting with the department heads has been rescheduled to 14:00. You are having a lunch meeting with senator Blandino and the mayor at noon. The dean of WSU called he wants to schedule an appointment with you this week to discuss funding of several projects. When shall I fit him in?'

'Wednesday somewhere in the afternoon. Was that all Andrea?'

'No, Mr Grey you have a meeting with Sam and some members of her team in 5 they want to discuss media strategy on your takeover of Xiao shipping, Blackbird and you personally sir...'

Sam Masey is head of my PR division and always looking for positive publicity for GEH. I hate the media they are nosey and always looking for scoops on my personal life or writing crap about my company. My latest acquisition of a Chinese shipping company has generated allot of negative publicity some people accuse me off outsourcing labour to China while some human rights activists criticise me for doing business with China in the first place. You can't win with these people and having to make time in my busy schedule to deal with this crap is putting a damper on my mood.

'Send her in.' I say sullenly as if Andrea is to blame for my discomfort.

'Good morning Mr Grey. I brought Max with me to discuss matters at hand.' Sam says upbeat while pointing at a lanky young man with meticulously combed blond hair and trendy glasses. I have seen him a couple of times before.

'Morning have a seat.' I say while pointing at two leather chairs.

'First I like to discuss how to diffuse the negative media attention we have gotten from the takeover of Xiao shipping. Max has some great ideas about that. Max, please explain them for Mr Grey.'

Max scrapes his throat and begins to speak.

'Mr Grey I suggest we combine the Chinese takeover with your takeover of Blackbird showing to the public that you create jobs in the US as well as abroad by taking over and repairing struggling US companies.' He says with a haughty voice I stare at him impassively this prick is truly clueless and has not done his homework it annoys the hell out of me.

'Mr Anderson, my takeover of Xiao shipping does not cost any jobs in mainland USA, in fact, it has created 50 new jobs here. The impression that I outsource labour with this takeover is wrong and I do not want it to be brought out like that. If you had done your homework you would have known that.' I snap.

'I am sorry sir I did not mean…' I hold my hand up and stop him.

'I don't buy anything with your excuses I pay you to do your job and if you are unable to do it properly I will find someone who can. Don't ever waste my time like that again do we understand each other Mr Anderson?'

'Yes, sir.' He hastily replies

'I want a press statement with the proper information on my desk within the hour. You are dismissed.' I say pointedly.

'Yes, sir, of course, sir.' He says and almost runs out of my office fucker.

'Sam the next item.' I snap unwilling to waste any more time with nonsense.

'This regards you personally Mr Grey. Forbes brought out their new billionaires list and you have entered the top 10 as one of the richest people on earth. Naturally this generated a lot of publicity and people are dying to know who you are as a person. So far I have gotten calls from the Seattle times, People magazine, GQ, Time magazine, The New Yorker, Interview and Oprah of all people. They all want an interview with you.

They want to know about you personally, what motivates you, what drives you to be this successful at this age and of course if you have a significant other. I strongly advise that you give at least four interviews with leading magazines to satisfy their curiosity. If not people will make up stories and the paparazzi will go insane. You are already constantly in the Nooz and the Trumpeter, Hell even the Cosmopolitan has dedicated an article on you.'

I snort loudly Cosmopolitan that's a chicks magazine, Mia always reads it why the hell do they dedicate an article on me?

'Why on earth am I in a chick's magazine?'

Sam looks at me like I have grown two heads.

'Because Mr Grey, you are good looking, richer than Croesus and as far as they know single. '

'Sam, I am a businessman, not a rock star or an actor I am not doing any interviews my private life is my own and nobody's business. Give them some general information but make it clear to them that I am not interested in giving any interviews.' I say authoritatively.

'Mr Grey I strongly suggest you reconsider. You don't seem to understand why people are so fascinated with you. Let me explain. You are exceptional at only 23 years old you are one of the richest people on this planet and an heir to the famous Grey dynasty. You have never been seen with a woman in public other than your mother or sister. You are the enigma everybody wants to unravel. If you don't throw them a bone they will go frantic. Plus, it would be great publicity for GEH if you give an interview. It also would make the paparazzi, less invasive of your privacy.'

I have to suppress a groan I do not want to share anything with people I do not know. No matter how good the publicity for GEH is.

'The answer is no Sam. Was that all?' I say dismissing her.

Sam looks furious at me, she was an investigative reporter before she made the career switch into PR and she knows what she is talking about. Yet I can't be bothered wasting my time with interviews I find the media fixation on my person ridicules.

'Christian, when you hired me you hired me because of my media expertise, something that you are lacking. I cannot do my job properly if you are dismissing my advice so callously. Your refusal will only make matters worse. Pick one of the magazines and give them a short interview to avoid a Media frenzy.'

I stare at her for a moment debating on calling her out on the use of my first name but decide against it. Sam is amazing at her job and we always have been on friendly terms. Plus she does have a point.

I run my hands through my hair is exasperation.

'I consider your request, give me a list of the magazines you think will give an honest reflection of my person.' I say annoyed.

'Thank you.' She breathes a sigh of relieve. The phone on my desk rings, it's Andrea informing me that my mother is on line one. I tell her to put her through and dismiss Sam.

'Good morning mother.'

'Hello darling how are you?'

'I am good, thank you for asking. What can I do to help you today?' I ask pointedly, I don't have time to chit, chat not even with my mom.

'Oh, darling always to the point. Mia and I are giving a welcome home party for the Steele's upcoming Saturday and I am just calling to relay an invite to you. You will come right?'

I need to suppress a smirk at the underlining message in her tone of voice don't you dare say no. And truth be told there would be no place I'd rather be.

'Of course I will mother.' I say innocently.

'Good you are working way to hard as it is. We expect you at five don't be late.' She says with a warning tone.

'I will be there see you then mom, goodbye.'

'Goodbye darling.' She says and hangs up the phone leaving me to my own devices. I smirk and my sour mood from my conversation with Sam has lifted. I cannot wait to see Ana again.

Andrea knocks on my door.

'Mr Grey you need to leave now if you want to be on time for you 10:30 meeting with the new CEO of Blackbird.'

'Thank you, Andrea, I will be taking Taylor and Reynolds with me. Tell them to get ready.'

'Yes Mr Grey.' Andrea replies before leaving my office.

Security has become an annoying but necessary percussion we get threats against me personally and my family on a daily basis and now that Forbes brought out this new list of richest people the press has become relentless in hounding me.

The ride to Blackbird is a short one. Reynolds and Taylor get out of the car and Taylor opens the door of the black Audi A8 so I can get out.

Showtime Grey, I think while walking into the Blackbird headquarters.

When I walk past the reception area the receptionist immediately jumps up to meet me.

'Good morning sir how can I help you? I am Mr Christian Grey and I have a meeting with Mr Cramer and Mr Steele this morning.' The receptionist is an older motherly lady in her 50's she looks flustered and begins to stammer an apology. I read her name tag and hold up my hand to stop her.

'Please, Mrs Abbot there is no need to apologize please show me to Mr Cramers office.' I say kindly

'Mr Steele and Mr Cramer are in the conference room sir I will take you there.' She says flustered and quickly walks towards the elevators taking us to the 5th floor. There are allot of different airplanes hanging on the stark white walls the carpet is gray and a half dead plant stands in the corner of the wall. This office has not seen an update since the early 90's I make a mental note to ask Elliot to bring this building into the 21ste century I don't want my staff working in a dump it's bad for moral and outdated equipment is not always ergonomic.

Mrs Abbot leads us to a room at the end of the hall and opens the door for us. I thank her and stride inside confidently and keeping my face impassive. Ray is pouring over some papers and making notes on his notepad while Richard is pointing some things out to him.

'Good morning gentleman.' I say coolly Richard Cramer jumps up and comes over to shake my hand immediately while Ray just looks shocked.

'Mr Grey, Christian, welcome.' Richard says while shaking my hand

'Thank you, Richard, My dad sends his regards.' He thanks me for my father's greeting and sits back in his chair.

'Christian? What are you doing here?' Ray asks bemused.

'My company bought Blackbird, I am the majority shareholder now.' I say pointedly.

The look on Ray's face is one of astonishment.

He scrapes his throat and eyes me up and down.

'You are the new owner of Blackbird?'He asks disbelieving and I give him a tight smile.

'I believe I am.' I respond curtly.

He sits back in his chair and looks amazed.

'Well, son you could have told me that before! I cannot believe that little Christian is now my boss! I knew you were doing well for yourself your face is on every magazine in the shops, but I never thought you would buy out my employer.'

I grin at him 'I am not so little anymore Ray. And I am sorry, but it was important that this was kept under wraps until everything was official to avoid any commotion with Blackbirds suppliers.' It is not entirely truthful, but he does not have to know that.

'So did you make me CEO because of our friendship? Because if that is the case I'd rather pass.' He says sounding offended. WTF? What give him that idea? I glare at him.

'Ray, I am not where I am today because of nepotism. I am so successful because the people I recruit into my companies are the best and the brightest. I choose you to lead Blackbird because of the experience and expertise that you have, you led a large number of very successful projects for this company and I am sure that you are the best man for the job. Richard agrees with me isn't that right Richard?' Richard Cramer nods in agreement and Ray looks stunt for a moment.

'Well, Christian that was quite the speech. I am glad we are on the same page.' He says hoarsely.

'Good, now let's discuss business strategy for Blackbird. I want this company rebranded to Grey Avionics. And there need to be some cost reductions. Some projects have too many overhead costs we need to deal with that fast. We also need to renegotiate with the suppliers their prices are too high.'

I begin and soon we are into a heated discussion about Blackbirds future. Both Ray and Richard have some very solid ideas and at the end of the meeting we have agreed on the main issues.

I knew making Ray CEO was a good idea regardless of the fact that I sold him a half truth about the reason why I made him CEO.

Bellevue February 15, 2007

Anastasia

It looks like a bomb went off in my room there are clothes everywhere and smudges of makeup are on my bed sheets.

'Sit still Ana I can't do your hair if you keep moving.' Kate growls in exasperation and I sigh.

I can hardly believe that I have not seen her in almost two years it is funny how our friendship picked up right where we left off. Saint Agnes albeit a girls school is pretty nice the teachers, in general, are friendly and the classes are fun. Having Mia and Kate going there with me has made the transition so much easier.

'Kate you need to comb my hair too. I want to look handsome. ' Norbitt says enthusiastically when he comes into my room in his boxer briefs and blue cotton shirt.

Kate smiles at him. 'Sure Norbitt.'

He gives her a big smile and bounces up and down excitedly.

'Norbitt put your pants on we are leaving in 30 minutes. I told you before that you can't run around the house in just your boxers.' My mom says sternly and Norbitt's face falls.

'But Kate needs to comb my hair too.' He objects.

'She can do that after you have put on your pants.' Norbitt grunts and leaves my room.

'Girls it looks like World War III has broken out in here! Are you two almost ready? We are leaving as soon as James gets here.' My mom says while surveying the damage to my room.

Mia and Grace Grey have organized a welcome home party for us and it's not that I don't appreciate the sentiment, but I don't like to be the centre of attention.

'Yeah, mom just gives us a few minutes more.' She nods at me and leaves again.

'I don't know Ana, I think I like your hair loose in curls better than put up. Like this look.' Kate says contemplative while flipping through Cosmo.

I grab the magazine from her and flip through the pages chewing on my bottom lip. 'I don't know.' I begin then I see him on page 25 in Cosmopolitan. OMG, how come I never noticed it before?

Christian is in Cosmo and he looks gorgeous, like heart-stoppingly gorgeous. Why does he have to be my brothers best friend? I whine inside my head, and my subconsciousness snorts. Like he would be interested in a brat like you.

'You did not tell me that Christian Grey was in Cosmo, why is he in Cosmo?' Kate looks at me like I am an alien from Mars.

'OMFG Ana I knew you were gone for two years, but I never realized you have been living under a rock! Christian Grey is the king of Washington! He is gorgeous, a billionaire and single! Every girl wants him just ask Mia.'

'Yeah right, Christian still single? He is way to hot to be single.' I say disbelievingly.

She shrugs

'Some people say he is gay.' Christian gay? I am pretty sure he is not. I heard him and James talking about a girl Christian was seeing once. James said she was mentally unstable and warned Christian. Maybe he likes crazy chicks?

'I don't think he is I heard him and my brother talk about a girl Christian was seeing once.' I say softly.

'Well, you brother would know he is Christian's best friend after all. What does the article say about him?' She asks curiously.

And America's hottest bachelor is... Christian Grey

The votes are in! We here at Cosmopolitan editorial all agree that Christian Grey is America's newest and hottest bachelor.

Young, gorgeous and filthy rich, Christian Grey has it all.

The Seattle native and an heir to the illustrious Grey dynasty has made it to the Forbes top 10

richest people on earth list at the tender age of 23.

Grey has never been seen with a woman or a man for that matter in public and speculation about him is running rampant. When reporters ask him about a significant other Grey always refuses to comment saying that is private life is private.

He recently pledged his support for gay marriage after his business partner Rosalyn Bailey expressed her desire to marry her long time partner Gwen Delany. A Source close to Grey, however, maintains that Mr Billionaire himself is as straight as an arrow. So ladies; Who of you can capture the heart of the world's most desired man?

'Why do these articles always have to be sensationalistic. You can't draw conclusions from just one source of information it's bad journalism.' Kate whines and I smirk at her. Kate wants the be a journalist for as long as I know here. She has grown up surrounded by everything media.

'Kate we are reading Cosmopolitan, not Newsweek.' I say pointedly.

'Girls are you ready to go. Your brother is waiting for you downstairs.' My dad says while entering my room.

'James is home already?' I say while jumping up to run downstairs. I am so glad he has flown here I have not seen him in six months. He is currently interning at the Boston children's hospital he is going to be a paediatrician just like Grace Grey.

'Ana honey you look lovely but isn't that dress a little short?' My dad asks while cocking his eyebrow at me. I am wearing a black halter dress with a V-line it isn't that long, but it isn't short either. Kate says it showcases my legs especially with the black Christian Louboutin strappy pumps I am wearing.

'No.' I snap.

'Does your mother know you are wearing this?' I have to suppress the urge to roll my eyes at him.

'Yes, she does.' I say monosyllabically he scratches his head and looks at me again for a moment I think he wants to say something again, but he closes his mouth again.

I storm downstairs to see James standing near the stairs he looks handsome and impeccably dressed in a suit, with a white shirt and a blue silk tie. Norbitt is talking to him excitedly and James is listening to him intently.

'James!' I squeal and run to him as best as I can in 3-inch heels.

He gives me a big grin and I jump into his arms and hug him tightly.

'Wow! Who are you and what have you done with my little sister! Ana, you look beautiful and all grown up I cannot believe how much you have grown in the last six months. I will be busy fending off boys from you all evening.' I hear my dad grunting something disproving, but I ignore him, grumpy old man I think sourly.

'You don't look so bad yourself. I am pretty sure that I spend the night chasing the girls away.' He grins at me and presses a kiss against my temple.

'Ana is always pretty.' Norbitt says with a puzzled look on his face. I love my two brothers they make me feel like the most special girl in the world.

'You look the most handsome of us all champ.' James tells him and he beams with pride.

'Let's go kids 18:15 is 18:15 we can't be late for our own welcome home party.' Dad says and opens the front door ushering us all out.

Christian

I am incredibly annoyed even though it is Saturday I made room in my schedule for a meeting with Charlotte Drake a curator at the Seattle museum of modern art as a favour to my grandfather. The Drakes are long time friends of grandpa and grandma Grey and desperate social climbers. Mr Drake is an investment banker and manages one of grandpa's many stock portfolio's.

His granddaughter Charlotte an attractive brunette with hazel eyes has recently become a curator at the museum of modern art and looking for funds for one of her expositions. She has not stopped ogling me ever since our meeting began and she is not shy with her advances. According to Elliot, she is hoping to bag a Grey and since Elliot and I are our grandparents only grandsons one of us is in here cross airs. The sad thing for her is that neither of us is interested. Elliot's taste in women has been narrowed down to blondes and I simply do not like her. I am trying to end this meeting for the last 10 minutes, but Ms Drake does not let up and keeps chatting.

'Ms Drake, I have another appointment today so I need to end our meeting. I am willing to put in a grand of 50.000 dollars for your exposition.' I say while standing up giving her a hand.

'Oh, please Christian why always so formal I told you to call me Charlotte after all our grandparents are friends since forever. ' She says while letting out a sharp laugh grating my nerves.

'Yes our grandparents are friends, we are not so I prefer that you keep calling me Mr Grey.

Thank you for coming to Grey house Taylor will see you out.' I say curtly and she looks at me like I slapped her.

'O, o, of course,' She stammers her face has turned beat red and she quickly leaves my office.

I take my suit jacket from my chair walk to the security office to collect Reynolds for my drive to Bellevue we will meet with Taylor downstairs.

When I walk into the hallway of Grey manor mom and Mia almost jump me.

'Oh thank goodness you are here!' Mom exclaims I look at her puzzled.

'Your father bought a new grill and has no idea how to use it he can't seem to turn it on. He and Elliot are at it for over 30 minutes now and we really need to start putting the meat on.' She says in one breath.

'Mom I know nothing about grills or grilling.'

'Please Christian take a look will you cause Elliot and dad suck at it. The guests are arriving any minute now and we have nothing to offer them but salad's and French bread.' Mia whines.

'Alright, I have a look. Taylor!'

'Yes, sir?'

'Do you know anything about grilling and grills?' I ask.

'A little sir.' He responds impassive as always.

'Good, then you can come and help us.' I say curtly and Mia lets out a sigh of relief.

We quickly walk to the backyard and spot my dad and Elliot immediately. They look flustered and de-shelved.

'I am telling you, dad, this thing is broken! It is a Monday morning production.' Elliot says exasperatedly.

'No, it isn't we must be overlooking something the manual says..'

'DAD! I don't care what the manual says this thing is broken, not working, kaput.' Elliot yells loudly.

'What's the problem with it?' I ask.

'Thank fuck you are here Christian now you can tell our father that he bought a broken grill I am done! I am going to freshen up before the guests arrive. Good luck with it.' He snaps and storms off to the house.

After twenty minutes, the grill still isn't working and I have quit trying to convince my dad that Elliot is right and the grill is broken. Mom finally had enough and ordered dad to recommission the old grill and bring this one back to the shop asap. Some oil has leaked on my linen shirt and I am all sweaty. Thankfully I still have some spare clothes upstairs in my childhood bedroom.

I quickly take a shower fully aware that the guests including the guests of honour have already arrived. Dad and his stupid grill I mutter. I quickly change and don't bother combing my hair it would be a futile exercise.

I make my way downstairs to the patio and stop dead in my tracks my mind has turned blank and I can't form a coherent taught or sentence. I simply stare at the divine creature who is casually talking to Mia and Kate. Her thick chocolate mane of hair falls on waves down her shoulders her bright blue eyes are beguiling and shining brightly like precious sapphires. Her nose is delicate and upturned and her soft pink lips are set in a gentle smile.

She is wearing a short black halter dress with a too low cut V-neck giving a great view of the cleavage between her perfect breasts. It annoys me that she is showing so much skin. The dress, however, fits her body like a glove she has curves in all the right places and her perfectly shaped legs are over a mile long. My cock twitches at the sight of her and I want nothing more than to bury my dick balls deep in her pussy. I am alarmed at the direction my thoughts have taken and my bodies wayward reaction to her. No Grey this is Ana, not some sub you can fuck I admonish myself. Ana is pure, sweet, and innocent she is my little angel, and not to mention my best friends little sister she is off limits and these ridicules salacious thoughts need to stop now.

I swallow the lump down my throat and discreetly adjust my pants before making my way to her.

'Good evening Anastasia.' I say smoothly and smile at her.

She gapes and me opening and closing her mouth two times stunned and I wonder if I have something on my face. This was not the reaction I was hoping for.

'Christian?' She says almost breathless and then gives me a warm all American smile before squealing and jumping in my arms and I lift her up and press her soft warm body tightly against mine. Her touch makes me feel like I have been hit by a lightning bolt, electricity is coursing through my veins waking every cell in my body. I feel dizzy and dazed when I feel her lips near my ear and her breath on my neck. She smells amazing like fresh apples and wild flowers, she smells like the meadow like my angel, like Ana, like home. These thoughts are confusing me, scaring me. This is wrong so wrong stop this now Grey!

I gently put her back on the ground she is beaming at me her smile is radiant and infectious.

Ana is breathtakingly beautiful, perfection personified and I stare a moment at her in wonder. Little Ana is not so little anymore and totally and completely forbidden.

'How have you been?' I ask her.

'Good, although I miss my friends and life in Argentina I would have liked to have stayed there longer. So how is the world's most eligible bachelor?' She asks chasing the subject and I let out a loud laugh. Ana is still Ana a guaranteed mood brightener although it saddens me that she did not want to come back to Bellevue. Has she not missed me at all?

'The world's most eligible bachelor? I take that as a compliment coming from you.'

'It is not my compliment its Cosmopolitans.' She says smirking at me.

'Damn, that is a disappointment.' I say with mock hurt.

'Well, Mr Grey I don't think you need little old me to inflate your ego further. I have been gone for two years and suddenly you have become a star!'

'I have? And here I thought I was a businessman! Well at least I can always count on you to deflate my ego every time it gets out of hand.' I chuckle and she playfully slaps and chest. The touch of her small soft hands sends a shiver down my spine and I relish in it. Just being close to her makes me feel alive and I don't understand why she has the effect on me. She never had before not like this.

'So, how do you like Saint Agnes?' I inquire after her new school delighting in the fact that no boys would bother her there.

She gives me a tight smile.

'It isn't as bad as I thought it would be. The teachers and classes are actually nice, and it does help that Mia and Kate go there too. I was very lonely when I moved to Argentina I had a hard time adjusting and making friends. So I am glad that everything goes so smoothly now.'

Her admission takes me by surprise Ana is such a sweet, warm and lovely person I cannot imagine why anyone would not want to be friends with her.

Unfortunately, my time with Ana is cut short because Elliot, James and Mud wanted to play a game of pool in the boathouse and I can not turn them down it has been ages since the four of hung out together. On the way there James shoots me a look and dread feels my stomach he knows that I have been ogling his sister. No matter what I think that I feel for Ana it can never come into fruition. I need to keep my distance from her no matter how hard it is going to be. The thought is painful and depressing.

I need to protect her from men like me and from me. I know that I have to keep my distance from her no matter what. I could never betray my friendship with James or corrupt Ana with my fucked-upness she is too young to sweet and innocent way to good for a heartless prick like me who is unable to love a woman in a proper way.

For once in my life I cannot be selfish I just hope that I am strong enough.

So Ana is 16 a teenager waiting to explore the world, and meeting boys since Christian is going to try to keep his distance from her. Ana will remain a virgin don't worry Christian will deflower her. But she will experiment and explore her sexual side. The question I want to ask my readers is: Do you guys want to read explicit scenes where Ana is kissing or doing sex acts with someone other than Christian.