A/N: Here we go! Remember, the letter Ana's mother sent was from the previous chapters. Just giving you a head's up.

All mistakes are my own.

I do not own FSOG. (Just this storyline, and original characters)

Oh, to be likened to a goddess is what I aspire to be. I am almost certain I have shocked a plethora of you ladies who read my column secretly, afraid of the ridicule you will bring. But for that brief moment, while you are reading my thoughts, tucked away in a corner, away from the prying eyes of husbands, brothers, and potential suitors, confess; haven't you always wanted to feel like a goddess reincarnate? –Gossip Columns

Dearest Ana,

I am certain you are having quite the time holed up with my brother at his estate. Ackley says that he has been by multiple times, but he has not been permitted entrance. My brother must want to keep you all to himself. The last time he stopped by was to alert you to some news that had returned from your home. I can understand wanting privacy and all, but I must first tell you that the ball was a hit! You were the talk of the town, and now everyone hopes to be able to attend your wedding with the captain. I secretly wish it so as well. Mrs. Williamson has inquired about you. She has several cakes she would like you to try, as she knows your sweet tooth. I shall pass on the good news that you are well, and spending time with my brother. Oh, and attached is a letter. From the heading, I am guessing it to be from your mother.

Your sister,

Mia

Dearest Mia,

I am truly sorry for any discord I have caused within your marriage. I also would like to apologize for my sudden absence. Tis' true. I have been spending my days with your brother at his estate. I have to admit that I am enjoying it immensely. I love being with your brother, and in his presence. I do hope this will not disturb you, as most things intimate between siblings often do, but I am deeply, and irrevocably in love with your brother. He is everything I have ever wanted in someone, and when I confessed my feelings, he confessed his own. He also confessed some other details, which I cannot wait to share with you in person, but I am so content. I laughed at what the townspeople thought of me. It is always a good thing to be liked, and respected, because I feel the same for all of the residents, here. I do not know about wedding bells, but now that I am away from the ton, I feel more freedom to choose when I marry the captain. Please inform Mrs. Williamson that I shan't stay away too long. I will visit her posthaste. She has indeed found my sweet tooth. I have seen the letter you sent, but have not opened it. I shall do so at a later time.

With love,

Ana

…

"Land ahead! Land ahead!"

Inhaling the fresh air, Elliott took a glance about the ship. Instead of waiting several more days for a ship that would allow men to travel, he opted for a cargo ship. The captain of that ship though him to be daft at the time, but he had no patience for societal niceties. He was not fit to be in anyone's company, and he didn't care whether it was a cargo ship, or a pirate's; he just knew he had to get his sister. At least when they returned on a more suitable ship, his sister could speak on his behalf, and he could entertain himself elsewhere. The closer the ship moved to the island, the more intrigued he became. He'd never seen quite a piece of land that was medium sized, yet held so much of its natural beauty. He wondered how the natives were able to keep it in such a way.

Once the ship docked in the early afternoon, Elliott walked through the town. He noted several curious townsfolk glancing in his direction, and he smiled congenially as he kept walking. He found himself starting to relax once he stepped on the foreign soil. It wasn't until he passed a book shop, that he smelled the most incredible scents wafting from a small little bakery. The closer he got, his mouth watered in intensely, and he knew that he had to sample some of the delicious food displayed in the window. Opening the ringing bell, he smiled at an older woman whose eyes widened, before she quickly took off her apron and stood in front of him. Although she was short, and small-framed, she seemed to command attention. He could see in her gaze that she was not one to be trifled with, and he liked her immediately.

"Well, good sir. What can I help you with today?"

Rubbing his chin, he glanced over the sweet delicacies displayed near the front.

"I am new into town, and I smelled your delicious baked goods. I was unable to stay away. Perhaps I might sample a slice of your cake?"

Winking at him, she went to cut him a slice. He took a quick look about the room, before taking a seat in the corner. Once he settled his long limbs, he sighed.

"You look exhausted. Been travelling long?"

Nodding, he picked up the cutlery, bringing it to his mouth, and inhaling the piece of cake. He couldn't help himself, and moaned aloud at the taste. Swallowing, he spoke.

"Do forgive my manners, Mrs.-"

"Williamson," she added. Nodding he continued.

"Right. Mrs. Williamson. But this is the finest tasting cake I have ever had. What is it, if you do not mind me asking?"

Taking the seat across from him, she smiled.

"I do not mind. But that does not mean I will tell you." At her raised brow, Elliott stared in shock, before collapsing into a fit of laughter. Most of the ton back home would never deny him a request should he ask. But this woman did with no qualms about it.

"Why, you are a surprise, Mrs. Williamson. I gather you and my mother would get along famously."

"I am most certain we would." Once he polished off the sweet treat, he cleared his throat.

"I must apologize yet again for my lack of manners. My name is Elliott Steele, and the reason I am here is-"

"To see your sister, Anastasia Steele?" she questioned softly. Surprised, he leaned closer.

"Yes. I'm afraid there has been a grand error. My parents want me to return my sister back home. she in betrothed to another, and while we are glad she is safe, based on the letters she has sent, Ana still must return home."

Knowing this day would come sooner, rather than later, Lily sighed.

"I know where she is lodging. She is currently staying with Dr. and Lady Ackley. They are not too far out of town. As a matter of fact, one of the boys from the blacksmith's shop will be able to loan you a horse to ride out."

Reaching over he grasped the older woman's hand.

"I do thank you, Mrs. Williamson." Standing, he grabbed his one bag he travelled with. Before he left, he asked her a question.

"Mrs. Williamson. Is my sister happy?"

Turning she nodded.

"Yes. I've only known her a short while, but I can honestly say that I've never seen a young woman so happy."

At that, Elliott smiled sadly. He knew that her happiness would be short-lived, but there was nothing he could do to change the situation.

To be a Steele, he thought sarcastically.

…

Humming to herself, Ana left the gardens where she had been enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. She agreed to stay with Christian until the evening, so she was enjoying as much sunshine as she could. Christian had to head into town, which left her alone for a bit. Truth be told, she used the time to rest her body. While she was very accepting of the captain's amorous intentions, she found her person to be more exhausted than usual. It was an exhaustion that instantly brought a smile to her face.

Yesterday, when she received Mia's letter, she was thrilled to see that her mother sent a message to her as well. She had no time to read it, as she'd been completely immersed with the captain, but now that he was gone, she knew it was the perfect time to read it. Besides, she needed to ponder on how she was going to inform her parents, that she would not be returning to London any time soon. Ana also thought of letting Christian know her mother sent her news, but thought better of it. She would share it with him later. He needed to know that she was serious of spending the rest of her life here.

Hopefully with him.

Opening the letter, Ana's smile fell, the further she read the letter.

…Cole, the Earl of Greystone…

Worth more than Midas himself…

Not only a captain…

Collapsing on the edge of the bed, Ana gripped the letter between her hands, unable to believe what her mother was saying. She had not notion to lie, as she was not closely associated with Christian. Could that be what he was hiding? That he was really the Earl of Greystone? Ana noted that the letter also confirmed her brother would be coming to collect her, and return her home. based on the date, Ana guesses that he could be here any day now. She had no idea that she was crying until her vision became blurred.

"He lied to me," she whispered into the air. Before she could examine the contents of the letter further, she heard rapid footsteps head in the direction of the bedroom.

His bedroom.

Unaware of Ana's sudden enlightenment, Christian spoke before walking into the room.

"Ana, love you will never guess-What? What on earth is wrong?" Immediately, he rushed to her, kneeling in front of her person. When she recoiled as if she'd been slapped before standing walking to his French doors which faced the sea, he frowned, wondering what had happened since he left.

"Ana? Love, what is the matter?"

Laughing bitterly, she wiped her eyes before glaring at him.

"You tell me, Earl."

At that, Christian's heart fell to his stomach, as he could see the hate reflected in her eyes. Swallowing, he spoke quietly, before dropping what she now saw in his hands were flowers on the bed.

"I can explain, Ana." He started.

"Can you? Can you really? Can you explain how you've made me out to be a fool? God, I've been throwing myself at you, admitting how much I detest society, and their rules, yet you are one of them! I gather you got quite the laugh out of everything I've said."

"No! never that. Please God, believe what you will, but not that. I have never laughed, or mocked you, Ana and I never will."

"Really? Because right now, I don't know what to feel. You've lied to me all this time, Christian. About who you are, about your name. Was it just some fancy? Lie to the Duke's daughter, seduce her, make her fall in love with you? God, I feel as if I might be sick." Christian immediately tried to assist her, but she held up her hand. Placing one on her waist, she held the other to her mouth. He watched as she slowly inhaled through her nose, before exhaling. Once she got her bearings, she opened her eyes. He was saddened to see her guard instantly come up.

"I need you to explain to me who, and what you are."

Licking his lips, he spoke.

"It is true. I am Christian Trevelyan, Earl of Greystone. I am the male heir of the Greystone name." At that, Ana's eyes widened even further.

So, it was true!

"Your father was Carrick Trevelyan."

Nodding tersely, Christian confirmed was who his father was. Ana heard of stories about the man. How terrible company he was. He spent his time gambling his fortune away, and what wasn't squandered by bets, he used on women. Countless women. At the look in her eyes, he laughed humorlessly.

"I see that you are aware of who my father was. That was why I left. I couldn't bear to be known as that man's son. Contrary to what people think, I know my father somehow killed my mother. But, I was unable to prove it, and by the time I arrived home, from a long sea journey, it was already too late. He told me of his plans to have my sister married off to his friend, in order to settle a debt between the two of them. I saw the way the decrepit man leered at my sister, and knew I had to leave. So, with the money I had on me, and the few clothes we could take, I smuggled my sister out of London, vowing to never return, or use that name. Instead, I use Christian. It's shortened, and I make enough profit that I am not questioned on my background."

As much as Ana was hurting, she could understand why he was hesitant to use his name. After all, although his father was a disgusting man, the name alone still rang high in society.

"Christian-"

Unable to stop, he continued.

"I should have confessed this to you when I first expressed interest in you Ana, but after hearing your disdain for the ton, how could I? I do not blame you in the least, as my patience with the gossips is barely present; but I did not want your opinion of me to be swayed by who I was. I wanted you to see me as who I'd become." Taking a deep breath, he knew it was time to reveal their brief past.

"I also need to let you know something." Gazing at him in wariness, she hugged her arms around herself waiting for him to speak.

"Go on," she urged quietly.

"Earlier, at the ball, I could tell on your face, that you thought I looked familiar. We did meet before."

Stiffening, Ana shook her head in disbelief. It was as if she was receiving too much information at one time.

"What?" She asked softly, unable to meet his gaze any longer.

"Ana-"

"Tell me," she whispered harshly. Seeing there was no other way, he sighed in resignation.

"Very well."

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