So in the previous chapter I mentioned that Ros and her girlfriend took a trip a Cuba.
Now because I'm totally uncultured and literally just pulled a random place out of my head, of course the place I'd choose would be a place that US citizens can't actually visit lol. So apologies for that and thank you to the reader that pointed it out! I changed it to Mexico lol.
Enjoy the chapter and as always let me know what you guys think!
DISCLAIMER: The original characters of Fifty Shades of Grey are owned by E.L. James. The content, added characters and storyline of this story are owned by me. No copyright infringement is intended.
Rated M for adult language.
CPOV
[2 day later]
"Christian darling, what a pleasant surprise." I dodge Elena's attempt to kiss me on the cheek.
Just the thought of her touching me in any way is too revolting. I pass her as I barge through her door with Taylor, Ryan, Welch and Barney following.
Elena stumbles back "Christian, what's going on? What's the meaning of all this?"
I turn to face her while the men get situated. Taylor hands me the iPad. I press play and hold it up to her face.
Her eyes widen in shock and I can't help but scoff. Stopping the video, I hand the iPad back to Taylor.
"Christian… I… I-"
"Don't. I don't want to hear it. In fact I'm contemplating whether or not I should tie you up and gag your fucking mouth so we can get done here."
I glance around her home. "But you might enjoy that. Her study is upstairs, 3rd door to the left." I say to the men, they nod and head for the stairs.
Elena runs around us to block the stairway.
"If you think for a second that I'm just going to let you barge in here and illegally-"
"You want to talk illegal Elena? How about we talk about the footage you so stupidly kept of yourself whipping and fucking a 15 year old boy."
Her face pales, I take this opportunity to look, really look at Elena Lincoln and the first thing I notice apart from the surgical enhancements is her age. Right now, she's looking really worn out.
I walk towards her until we're face to face.
I lower my voice so only she can hear.
"Or, how about we talk about how you tried to sell me out to my main competitor, just so what? You could get ahead with your little salons? Salons which, by the way, I'm backing out of."
I watch as her whole body goes frigid and her miserable life flashes before her eyes. I smooth down my suit jacket and take a step back.
"Now, this can go two ways; you get out of the way while we search the place for anything else you might have on me or, we take this to the authorities, they'll come at you with a search warrant and possible arrest. Oh and they'll also find all the other videos and images you've kept of all your other submissives. Imagine that going around? Socialite and owner of Esclava franchise arrested for underage sex scandal, BDSM sex scandal. I'm not really all that creative with possible headlines but don't worry the media really knows how to hit and slander things like that. They always come up with the craziest headlines."
"You oust me you out yourself." She replies in her last attempt to save herself.
I merely shrug. "I have enough money to last me 5 life times."
"And your family? What would they think? You go on and on about how you don't need anyone but, at the end of the day, all you want is their approval and love. I'm not blind, I've been trying to show you that of that doesn't matter it's all for fool's! I'm the only one keeping you where you need to be! the only one who knows you and what you need and this is how you repay me? After all I did for you? Your company? Your company would still be in your fucking head if it weren't for me you ungrateful shit." She spits out.
I bite the tip of my tongue until it bleeds. The tiniest pain gives me a second of relief. As the copper taste dances on my tongue and invades my buds I tilt my head back and exhale.
I don't commend abuse against women. I would never hurt or hit a woman, not without consent of course. But right now? Right now as I'm currently in the presence of this vile creature; I want nothing more than to hurt her, but I won't. Not for me, or for Elena but for Grace, she didn't raise me to be this.
"You know, Elena." I softly rub my chin.
"The moment I walked through the door you could of easily said 'Sure Christian, go ahead I have nothing to hide.' But you didn't. That alone confirms that you have something worth hiding."
Elena cuts me off with her wicked laughter.
"It's a fucking security blanket, Christian! You more than anyone should know that! It's leverage in case you decide to fuck me over somehow. I was never going to use it against you!"
"And I here I thought you kept it to get yourself off. Step aside, Elena."
She hesitates for a second before eventually succumbing. We walk up the stairs with a tailing Elena.
"Christian, please! Please don't do this! After all we've been through? You know I would never do anything to hurt you!"
"Over here." I lead the men, ignoring Elena and her cringe-worthy begging.
I open the door to the study and walk in. Taylor and Ryan immediately ransack the place whilst Barney sets up on her desk.
Her voice cracks. "Christian, you… you can't do this! Please!"
I stand back ignoring Elena whilst watching the men do their work. I glance at my watch, I really don't wish to be here longer than necessary.
Elena's eyeing the door dubiously. She tries to make a subtle exit before I grab her arm to stop her.
"Where do you think you're going, Elena? Hm? Is there something out there you don't want us to see?"
She yanks her arm out of my grip.
"This isn't you, Christian. I mean look at you! You barge in here with your goons and tear through my house expecting to find what? footage and images that I would've turned over to you if you asked! You're destroying the only friendship you have here all because you've become this paranoid little man! I'd do anything for you Christian! I made you!"
Before I can reply, Barney pipes up.
"Sir, we have something."
I throw Elena an icy glare as I walk over to the desk.
"Taylor, secure Mrs. Lincoln."
"Of course, Sir."
"Get your bear paws off of me!"
I stand behind Barney with my arms folded across my chest. He clicks on the external hard drive and my mouth instantly goes dry. Countless images, all of me tied up, gagged and in compromising positions. Everything goes silent, the beating of my heart becomes deafening.
The pictures are all different, me throughout my teen years up until I'm 21. Not once did I ever notice Elena taking photos let alone hold a camera. You were blinded in almost every session.
There are no images of Elena, only me. Half of this shit I don't even remember. Barney brings up a new folder containing the videos. I haven't said a word let alone moved a muscle.
Barney goes through some of the videos on mute without looking at them. I can tell he is embarrassed. I have no room for embarrassment right now, so many other feelings have taken residence in my being. The camera angle of the videos indicates it was recording from above. All in different positions which means she had cameras installed all over her playroom. Camera's I had no idea of. Luckily, you get a clear glimpse of Elena in the videos we've seen so far.
"I don't need to see the rest. Confiscate the drive."
I stride towards Elena. "Where's the rest?" I ask.
If this woman were capable of producing tears, no doubt she'd be sobbing by the look of her face.
"There's no-"
I forcefully grab her arm "Where the fuck are the rest?!" I roar. All I feel right now is unadulterated rage. It's becoming blinding. My grip on Elena's arm tightens.
"Where, Elena? Where are the rest?" I whisper menacingly. She shakes her head feverishly. Gone is the cold and calculated dominatrix. The person in front of me? I don't even recognize her. She looks as if she's aged 10 years in the last 10 minutes. Her usual dormant expression has merged into a fearful and wild one. If I wasn't so built up with anger I'd laugh at the obviousness of her guilt.
She chooses to remain silent. "Men, ransack the place. Turn this place upside down."
Elena's eye widen in disbelief. She knows there's nothing she can do. She can't call the police because that'll just fuck her over.
"Christian, please, don't… don't do this." She pleads.
"Elena, save yourself the embarrassment; begging doesn't become you."
4 hours later and the only thing we've come across is exhaustion, that and Elena's frightened maid who couldn't be happier when she was dismissed.
"I told you, I told you there was nothing else." Elena states firmly. I shoot her glare that puts her back into her place.
"Is that really it? Including her playroom?"
"Yes, Sir; that's it."
I rub my face and exhale. Just as I'm about to wrap this all up Ryan comes barreling in.
"Sir, we have a safe."
My eyes shoot directly to Elena, "Nothing else huh? I really can trust you can't I Elena?
Ryan leads us to the en-suite of the master bedroom.
"If you look at the mirror you can see the split down the middle. It's so obvious you wouldn't suspect anything."
He runs his hand under the bottom of the mirror where he presses something that caused the mirrors to open and there you have it. Elena's safe.
"Wow Elena, behind the mirror in your bathroom, smart. What's the combination?"
We get nothing but silence. I look over my shoulder in her direction. She's standing, face scowled and arms folded across her chest.
I walk over to her, heat radiating of my body, I'm trying really fucking hard to remain calm, "I've been patient, Elena, really fucking patient with you tonight considering what a fucked up situation we have here. You've lied to me, betrayed me, and sold me out. The fact that you're still standing here in front of me is enough to show how generous I've been tonight. Do you have any idea what I can do to you? I'm a very powerful man, Elena; I think you're forgetting that."
I close in the distance between us and lean down to whisper in her ear, "I can make you disappear tomorrow and no one will be able to do anything about that. So, unless you want that to happen; tell me the combination to the safe."
I step back and watch as she sags in defeat. A small muffled cry escapes her lips as she states the combination. "48203"
"Now that wasn't so hard was it?" I turn back to Ryan as he puts in the code. A beep indicating the opening of the safe goes off. To be completely honest, I don't know what I expect to find. I can't possibly think of anything else she could have on me but considering she gave Steele Miss Davis's name, she obviously has more resources then I've ever anticipated.
Ryan pulls out the contents, some jewelry, cash, a passport, birth certificate and a folder. Ryan opens the folder before passing it on to me. I take it and go through the documents.
My blood boils at the realization.
"Why do you have these, Elena?" I ask as I continue to flip through the papers. She answers me with silence.
"I said why the fuck do you have these, Elena!" I yell. She jumps in shock and reflectively takes a step back.
"I-I….I just" She stutters.
"What?! You just what?! Tell me why you would have a fucking copy of my contracts between my past submissive and I? Why would you possibly need that?! I mean, look; you can clearly see my signature on every fucking one. So, tell me, Elena, why?!"
The water works start, never in my 15 years have I ever seen Elena cry, not even when Linc bashed her to a bloody pulp. I didn't even think she was capable of tears.
"I don't know!" She sobs. She goes over and takes a seat on the toilet with her face buried in her hands. She looks up, "I just- I just needed a form of security, Christian! I had no intention of ever using any of this against you, you have to believe me!"
I quirk my brow in response, yeah like I'm going to fucking believe her. I think back to all the times Elena would parade her girls in front of me and I fell for, I fucking fell for it. She delivered the girls, her girls. Of course they'd fucking talk to her. She probably convinced them that this was all a part of the arrangement.
"Christian, I have all of these to protect you!"
I can't help but laugh.
"Didn't you just say it was a form of security for yourself? Get your story straight, Elena."
"I've never done anything to hurt you, why would I-"
"How about the fact that you tried to rat me out to Anastasia Steele? You know, I warned you, Elena. I told you she would just use you to get to me. What did she offer you by the way? It must have been good for you to risk everything you have."
I stare at her as she nervously sits there before it hits me.
"She didn't even offer you anything did she? You willingly gave her information and for nothing!" If I thought I felt betrayed before, I don't even want to know what I'm feeling now.
"I didn't tell her anything! She just knew, Christian! I thought, I thought I could eventually help her, help her the way I helped you"
"So you didn't mention Samantha Lee Davis, she's not one of your girls?" She looks away and immediately I know.
Can I trust anyone in my life? Elena, she was the one person who knew me, who understood me, she fucking guided me! At one point, she was my world, everything I did, I did to please her. I would never betray her. When Linc put her in hospital, I wanted to fucking kill him and I would of if that's what she wanted.
I stand in front of her, she looks up at me whilst remaining seated.
"You betrayed me, Elena. You hid these lies from me; you used me to get ahead. Consider yourself very fucking lucky that I'm remaining calm due to the reason and the only reason that you've somewhat helped me in the past"
"Christian-"
"Shut the fuck up!" I roar. She proceeds to quietly sob.
"Do not try and contact me. You try and contact me; I'll inform authorities of everything and you'll have a whole different shit storm to deal with understand?"
She nods feverishly.
"I want you out of Seattle and I'm buying you out of the salons."
Her head snaps up, her face in pure shock. She stands abruptly. "You can't do that! Those are mine! You can't just-"
"I can and I fucking will. Do you not understand the generosity I'm showing here?! I could back out of the salons and that alone will destroy you. You'll go bankrupt in 2, 3 months tops. You could go bankrupt in an hour if I saw to it."
She clenches her jaw and narrows her eyes; she appears to be biting her tongue.
"Is there something you wish to say, Elena?"
She mumbles something under her breath.
"I'm sorry, what was that?"
"No!" She exclaims in frustration.
"Good. I'll have all the papers drawn and my lawyer will be in touch with yours. You'll be paid lucratively for the salons, not that you deserve it. But you'll be set you up so you'll be comfortable for the remainder of your life. The only reason I'm doing this is out of respect for your guidance throughout my teen years."
I walk towards the door but stop and turn.
"But don't for a fucking second think that you made me. I made me, everything I've accumulated over the year has been all me."
I turn to leave when she speaks.
"I'm not leaving Seattle. You're not taking my home away from me."
"You'll leave willingly or forcefully, up to you. But you will leave."
I walk out leaving Elena in her en-suite.
"Taylor, get a cleaning crew to come by and clean the place."
"Yes, Sir."
APOV
[2 months later. ]
"I still can't believe we don't have the I.D's for them yet!" I shake my head in frustration.
"How long is this going to take? Are we ever going to get it?!"
It's been 2 months, 2 fucking months and we STILL haven't been able to I.D the remaining 4 victims. Stop calling them victims, you have no proof remember?
"Ma'am it's not that easy we-"
"What about her location? Have we at least heard anything on that?" I cut Price off. I know this man has been working down to the bone but this just isn't good enough!
"We have all of these resources to our disposal and we can't even locate her whereabouts for the last month and a half, she couldn't have just fallen off the damn planet!"
Although I wish she would. Not without justice being served.
Price's jaw clenches. It's obvious this is frustrating him.
"I shouldn't have left Seattle so soon. This would've been-"
"This would've been what?" I'm taken back with Price's abruptness.
"Do you understand how delicately this needs to be treated, Ana? Do you know how many laws we're breaking here?"
"I-"
"This isn't easy work. On top of obtaining the , I'm making sure we leave no trail at all, that alone is near impossible, which is why we can't rush this and with Elena Lincolns sudden drop off the radar, I'm trying my hardest to make sure this doesn't't lead back to you. I want to protect you."
I look down in lap and pick imaginary lint off of my skirt. A thing I did whenever Ray would scold me.
Price sighs and sits on the edge of my desk.
"I'm worried about you. You've been working nonstop. You're avoiding everyone like the damn plague and you've missed every session with Angela since you've been back. Now I know you're a grown woman but it's my job to ensure your safety. Not only do I protect you from threats, I need to protect you from yourself. Will you let me do that, Ana?"
I continue to pick at my skirt and shrug petulantly, Price chuckles.
"I'm still your boss you know." I state softly.
This makes him laugh harder.
"Tell that to your father. I get more orders from him than you."
I can't help but smile. Ray is a force not to be reckoned with.
"Ok," I groan and lean back in my seat. I feel like I'm stuck. There's been no progress on this and Price is right, it's been driving me up the wall, not only me but everyone else I have working on this.
I assigned Sawyer to stay back in Seattle and to keep tabs on Elena since he's good at physically I.D'ing people but that was a bust since she up and left. I was hoping to catch her with at least one of the four. I may be powerful in the business world but my influence can only take me so far before I'm at legal risk.
I have connections with a few higher ups but it's too early to call in favors, especially when I technically have nothing incriminating. And with Price using his resources from the CIA to look into possible minors, that might raise some flags and he's doing his best to avoid that.
You can always ask…
I inwardly roll my eyes. No, no way I'm asking Grey for anything. After Rick and Grey's team worked together on making sure the video, and copy was erased, I haven't really heard anything of or from him, which is a positive. I'm not sure how he dealt with Elena but judging by his acquirement of the Esclava salons, I guess we can say he kicked her out of that. I know legally I'm bound by that contract to not go snooping in Grey's business but in all honestly I wasn't, I was snooping on Elena but only came up with Grey's buying of the salons.
Elena's disappearance didn't' feel suspicious, in the sense that Grey might have done something.
There was activity on her credit cards and large transactions before she froze her existing accounts. Plus she did purchase plane tickets, I just don't know where to.
Maybe she got tipped off and is on the run…
Who could've possibly tipped her off?
Why don't you just ask him?
I can't! Especially if by chance he's still acquainting himself with her and if by chances he's looking into her whereabouts it could appear suss. She hasn't even contacted me and I know she was looking to expand the salons. Grey must've put a stop to it. But she still would've contact me for help right? Help getting herself back on track with the salons. He must've told her about Samantha Lee Davis who has also gone back into hiding after coming out weeks later.
But I can't look into it, fucking contract. Everything is just getting too fucking complicated!
You're getting riled up again.
I page Lucy, "Lucy, cancel and reschedule all of my appointments for today, I'm leaving early."
"Oh no you don't!" Jose yells as he barges through my office.
I roll my eyes and groan in annoyance. Please, God, show mercy.
"That'll be all, Price." I say, dismissing him.
He nods and takes his leave.
Jose stands there with his arms folded across his chest.
I quirk my brow and gesture towards the seat, "Well? I'm assuming you want something?"
He shakes his head and takes a seat.
"Do you know how hard it's been to catch you lately?"
"I'm a very busy person, Jose, you know that."
"Not for me you aren't. I'm your second in charge, Ana. I'm your best friend. And I've seen you what? 2, 3 times if you count the glimpse of your head I got when you were getting in the car."
He rubs his face and leans forward, placing his elbows on his knees.
"We're losing the deal in China."
I close my eyes for a moment of peace.
"I know." I reply.
"This is a big one, Ana."
"I know." I state firmly.
"Then why aren't't you doing anything about it?"
My jaw clenches as I glare at Jose; I'm getting sick of people scolding me today.
"I'm sorry but seriously, Ana, this needs to be handled. We're riding on this deal. This is a shoe in for us in China"
"You think I don't know that, Jose? I fucking know!"
I watch as he physically recoils a bit. We sit in silence for a few moments.
"I don't know what happened in Seattle, but it's clear you brought it home with you."
No fucking shit.
"Set up a conference call with China as soon as possible. I'll take care of it." I tell him.
Jose nods as he stands.
"I'm pretty sure I hired you to do shit like this but whatever" I mumble under my breath whilst organizing the files on my desk.
Jose laughs and walks towards the door.
"You just keep me around to stare at my pretty face."
I scoff.
Jose leaves and closes the door only to barge in not even a second after.
"And don't think you're off the hook. I want to know what happened in Seattle and how you are. I know me pestering you now will only get me as far as a snake can throw so I'll leave you be."
He leaves for the second time and I'm left alone. Thank God. I lean back in my chair and just breathe. My phone buzzes, interrupting my inevitable failed attempted at relaxing. It's a text from Paul.
'Will be in NY next week. I expect some of your time. - P'
I smile. He was pretty cut that I didn't't say bye when I left for home. To be honest, it didn't't really occur to me, I knew I'd see him again so why make a big deal out of it. Paul and I text each other on a regular basis, which according to Kate, is a massive breakthrough for me.
I haven't heard from Kate in a while, she's back in Seattle visiting Elliot. Taking into account the back and forth visits between the two, I'd say they're getting pretty serious. I'm happy for her, she deserves it.
I text Paul back. 'I guess I can show you around my hood. - A'.
Instant reply.
'I literally laughed out loud at that, which isn't good considering I'm currently in a full courtroom. – P'
I chuckle and shake my head.
'It'll be great. I'll show you how we do it in New York City. I run these streets. – A'
Seriously, who are you?
'Ok enough, the Judge's gonna confiscate my phone. Later homie – P'
There's a knock on my door.
"Come in."
Lucy walks in. "Ma'am, You have China in the conference room for a call."
Well that was quick. I get up and she grabs my MacBook.
Another day, another dollar.
CPOV
"Christian, you're not even listening!" Mia exclaims while I continue to eat my roast dinner.
"I was listening, Mia."
She quirks her brow and pouts, "Then what did I say?"
I shrug nonchalantly, "I don't know, I wasn't listening."
"Ugh, you're so frustrating!"
She doesn't even understand the word frustrating. Work is frustrating; dealing with incompetent people every day is frustrating, not having a fucking submissive for the last 5 months is frustrating!
"This is the first time we've seen you in nearly 2 months, Christian, the least you could do is listen to your fucking sibling." Elliot scoffs.
My eyes narrow on him.
"Elliot!" Grace exclaims.
I wipe my mouth with my napkin and throw it on the table.
"I'm just stating the obvious, Mom. It's like he's not even a part of this damn family. "
"Babe, calm down." Kate says whilst rubbing his back. My eyes linger on the sentimental gesture for a bit too long.
"You better listen to your woman, Elliot. That's probably the only good thing to ever come out of her mouth, take it while you can."
I hear both Grace and Mia gasp. Elliot rises abruptly from his seat, with me following in suit.
"Enough!" Carrick bellows. Elliot and I remain standing, his nostrils flaring and chest heaving.
I clench my fists repeatedly. I've been itching for human contact more than ever lately.
That's your fucking brother asshole.
I ignore the reason in my head and smirk.
"I'm game if you are big brother."
He stares at me passively. Shaking his head he looks down at Kate.
"Kate, let's go."
Fucking pussy.
"Don't bother, I'm leaving." I state. I walk over to Grace and kiss her head. The look on her face is enough for me to just want to leave and not come back, displeasing her is inevitable.
I walk pass Carrick and nod goodbye. "Dad." He gets up I'm assuming o walk me out. Great. I ignore everyone else at the table, even Mia.
I stride through the foyer in hopes to leave before Carrick catches up.
"Christian, wait." I hear from behind me. I stop and sigh.
"What is it, Dad?"
Carrick walks towards me with his hands in his pockets.
"What the hell was that?"
I play oblivious and shrug, "I don't kno-"
"You know damn well what I'm talking about. You were ready to throw down with your brother right on the dinner table! Your brother, Christian! You were disrespectful to Kate, you've upset your mother; she was looking forward to tonight since she hasn't seen you in months and this is how you behave?"
I rub the face in aggravation.
"I know you're a grown man, Christian. But the way you behaved was childish and I won't have that under my roof."
God, it's like I'm 14 again. "You owe an apology to everyone at the table, especially Kate."
I let out a clipped laugh and walk towards the door. "Goodnight, Dad."
I'm about to walk out the door when Elliot decides to butt in.
"I think it's funny how since Ana left you've been more of fucker than usual."
Kill me now. God, just strike me with lightening because If you don't I'm going to fucking kill Elliot. His tendency to butt in where he's not needed is really pissing me off. He doesn't even have the slightest fucking clue why I am the way I am, oh but if he knew…
"Ana? You mean Paul's Ana; Anastasia Steele?" Carrick asks with a confused expression on his face.
My ears instantly heat up, what the fuck does he mean Paul's Ana? And why the fuck would this bother you?
"Yeah, ever since that night at the fundraiser, Christian's been hostile around her, always rude. Why is that little brother? What, she turns you down so you act like a spoilt little shit? Learn to be a fucking man."
"Elliot, that's enough! I don't know what's happened between the two of you but it ends and now."
I ignore Elliot and leave my parent's house. I let Elliot have the last word because, not out of respect but because I'm too fucking livid right now and I know I'll just end up doing something I'll regret. I crack my knuckles in poor attempt to feel any sort of relief.
I walk up to the car and get in, slamming the door.
"Escala, Sir?" Taylor asks from the front seat.
I look out the window and think for a moment. I don't want to go back to Escala, for some reason. I've been dreading that part of my day for a while now, it's just so… quiet there, which is fucking confusing considering that's exactly what I crave at the end of the day, quiet.
I don't want to keep Taylor away from Gail another night. Bastille has been out of the country for a couple of weeks so I've been using Taylor to train, it's taken up a bit of his time as I've been working out twice a day for a couple of hours and that doesn't include our 5 AM runs.
I try and think of all the places I could go instead of Escala but come up short. My parent's or Elliot's is a no go obviously… that only really leaves Greys house or Flynn's.
The thought of nowhere else to go sparks a feeling that feels foreign. It almost feels like… loneliness.
I frown at the idea that I could feel lonely. Well you did lose the only pers-
I didn't lose her; she lost me and good fucking riddance. I don't care what she's doing with her life, as long as she's far away from here which she is, I'm fucking glad.
"Yes, back to Escala." I tell Taylor.
I'm sitting at my piano with a glass of whiskey, the first and last one for the night.
I take a swig and place it on top of the piano. I mindlessly run my fingers along the keys hoping inspiration would hit me but alas, like every other night, I'm stuck.
I slam the keys before slamming the lid down, not caring for the loud noise I cause.
I grab my glass and walk out to the patio. Closing my eyes I embrace the gush of cool air that hits my body.
I walk over to one of the sun chairs Mia insisted I get for on the rare occasion the sun decides to come out and take a seat.
I can't help but think about what Elliot said earlier. What did he mean since Steele's left? I couldn't' give two fucks that she's gone. I'm glad she's gone.
And what the fuck did Dad mean, Paul's Ana? I'm sorry; I didn't know you could own people now. I take a swig of my whiskey, fuck it, I chug the whole thing.
Just the thought of Steele is enough for alcoholism. I lean back and close my eyes. How did everything turn to shit? I had everything in control, I was on top of my game and then it all went to shit and I know it all started with Steele, she caused the damn domino effect in my life.
Although you do have her to thank for the whole Elena thing.
I throw my head back and groan, I don't even want to think about the whole fucking Elena thing.
How could I be so blind? Me, Christian Grey. I'm more pissed at myself than anyone else. I let it get to this, I let people in and in return they run around in my life and turn shit upside down.
Aside from sparring with Bastille and Taylor, I've had no physical contact with anyone. Of course I haven't taken part in the lifestyle in a long while because I need things to cool down before I take that risk and with everything that happened with Elena, well she made my paranoia worse.
I glance at my watch; it's only 09:12PM.
I grab my phone and go through my contacts and decide to call Ros.
She picks up after the 4th ring.
"Christian? Do you know what time it is?"
I trace the rim of my glass.
"Yes it's quarter past 9, why?"
She doesn't hide the exasperation in her voice.
"Is there something you needed?"
Is there? Why did I even press the dial button on her name? Sensing her obvious frustration with me I decide to leave her.
"Nothing that can't wait until work, enjoy the rest of your night."
I hang up before she has a chance to say anything. Clutching the glass in hand, I throw it at the concrete ground in frustration.
I watch as the tumbler shatters and fragments of the glass glisten from the night sky, it's as if I'm looking at my life.
Well that's not depressing.
I run my hands through my hair, why, why the fuck do I feel like this? I'm not supposed to feel anything! Gripping my phone, my finger hovers over Flynn's name. Moments pass and I decide against it.
Instead I opt for a different contact, a contact that I surprisingly haven't deleted yet. I open up a new text.
APOV
"The Chinese can be real ball busters I'll tell you that." Jose says as we exit the conference room. 3 hours, 3 fucking hours spent on arguing, negotiating and defending. I was close, so fucking close, to telling them they can shove the deal up their asses. They're so damn ruthless I can't help but have great respect for the way they work.
"Did you see the look on Jiang's face though when you bit back at his sarcastic women retort? Do we record video conference calls? I seriously want to keep that moment."
I can't help but smile, "Yes that was probably the highlight of the meeting." I don't know what it is with foreign CEO's and leaders, it's as if the mere thought of women in power is devil's play. I swear they're so out dated and stuck back in their damn time that it's become quite humorous.
It wasn't humorous when I first started out, but it's just come to the point where I brush it off nowadays; they always succumb to Steele Inc anyway so no need to hold grudges.
But this deal? I thought we lost it for sure.
We reach the door of my office, "You did good Boss."
I roll my eyes, "Gee thanks Jose, and I sure hope I did, I mean being the boss and all."
"Okay smart ass. Well I'm off. I need to unwind. I don't know, I might order some Chinese; I have a real craving for some reason. See ya tomorrow." Jose walks towards the elevator.
Before closing my office door I faintly hear Jose asking Lucy if we keep recordings of the conference calls.
I wipe the sweat off my forehead with my towel. I really needed that work out, it kicked my ass but God did it feel rejuvenating. I had too much energy after dinner so I decided to head down to my gym. I need to get back into my Krav Maga, Ray would have a fit if he found out I haven't been training. I'm glad he hasn't brought it up, who am I kidding he wouldn't even ask me, he'd just ask Price.
I walk into my kitchen and grab a bottle of water from the fridge. Kicking the fridge door closed I walk over and take a seat at the breakfast bar. As I take a large gulp of water I catch a whiff of my scent, God I stink. I decide to sit for a while longer enjoying the peace in my sanctuary when I hear my phone go off from inside my gym bag.
I groan out loud and decide to ignore it. I hop off the stool and head upstairs to take a nice long shower; whoever it is will have to wait until I care enough to answer.
Closing my eyes, I tilt my head back letting the hot droplets of water cascade down my neck and breasts. I remember when I was younger I would spend up to an hour in the shower when I could get away with it. I would stand under the shower, close my eyes and just imagine I was under some magical waterfall. I'd block everything out and imagine the sounds of nature around me, engulfing me. Until of course Ray would bang on the bathroom door demanding me to get out before I shrivel up.
It took me a while to get used to the fact that I could have warm showers when I started living with Ray. I had warm showers at the hospital before Ray took me in but I thought that was only a luxury for those who were sick so I didn't get my hopes up. When I was finally able to go home with Ray, I was in a kiddie pink fluffy bathrobe watching Ray adjust the shower for me.
"I hope that's not too hot for you sweetie; Put your hand under the water and check."
With a confused expression I did. And When I felt the warmth of the water that I assumed I'd never feel again I broke down into tears.
"Fu- I mean shit – damn I mean damn, was it too hot, are you hurt?"
He was assessing my hand as if he'd never seen one before.
"The… the water… *hiccup* It's warm... like in the… in the big white- white room."
He furrowed his brow in confusion before finally coming to realization, with a hard look and tears in his eyes; he crouched down and tucked a strand of hair behind my ear.
"You won't ever have to take a cold shower again; not unless you want to. This is your home now Annie and I'm going make sure that you never go without again my princess."
And I didn't. He made sure I had everything I could ever need; a great home, food, warmth, love and a second chance at childhood.
I make my way downstairs and grab an apple to snack on. While walking to my study I remember my phone going off earlier, with a roll of my eyes I go to retrieve it.
4 Unknown Missed calls
7 Unknown Text Messages
I open the first text received at 12:23AM
'I don't know why I'm even texting you but I am.'
My brows furrow in confusion. Who is this?
Second text 12:31AM
'That was clearly an opening for you to text back and start a conversation.'
Third text 12:36AM
'Are you purposely ignoring me?'
Fourth text 12:41AM
'I know your phone is on, I've called 2 times already and it rings out! '
Fifth text 12:48AM
'ANSWER YOUR PHONE'
Sixth text 12:54AM
'Un-fucking-believable. What if this was an emergency, Steele? How could anyone possibly get a hold of you?'
Seventh text 1:00AM
'CONSIDERING YOU DON'T ANSWER YOUR FUCKING PHONE.'
Just as I finish reading the last text the phone starts ringing in my hand. Gripping the device I contemplate whether or not I should answer. It's clear whoever it is won't stop until you do. I quickly go through the short list of people who would need to contact me so desperately… I can't come up with anyone. Biting the bullet I answer.
"Steele."
"Ah, you're alive."
That voice…
"Grey? Is that you?"
I can practically hear the frustration dripping from his body over the phone.
"Yes it's me! Why weren't you answering your phone? There's only a 3 hour difference in New York, you couldn't possibly be asleep already.'
I remain silent, still reeling and processing the fact that Grey has rung me and it's past 1AM, Of course I wouldn't be asleep but any other person? Uh, maybe!
"I- Uh, What do you want?" I ask in total confusion.
"Well that's hardly a way to greet someone, but it is you. As for what I want, I just want… I just wanted to, I don't know… talk?"
My eyes widen in disbelief.
"To me?" I ask reluctantly.
"Yes you."
"Anastasia Steele me?"
"No, the other Anastasia Steele I know."
I feel a bit of paranoia creep up and I glance around my home looking for what or whom, I don't know.
"Are you still there?" His smooth voice booms through the receiver.
"Uh, yeah… I'm- I'm still here. So… how are you?" I ask whilst eyeing my apple.
He sighs deeply.
"I guess I'm well."
"You guess?"
"Yes, I mean; I'm healthy, rich and have a full head of hair so yes, I'm well."
I laugh nervously. Okay….
"And… you? How are you?"
How am I? Well, I've been driven to the brink of my sanity due to the fact that your pedophile lover has now taken ethereal form. Thanks for asking.
"Yeah, what you said basically."
I take a bite of my apple and wipe the excess juice with the back of my hand. I groan out loud, juicy apples are good fucking apples.
Real classy.
I hear some rustling through the phone on Grey's end.
"What are you doing?" He asks deeply.
"Eating an apple." I say with my mouth full.
"Red or green?" He replies after a moment.
"Red. Why?"
"I like green apples."
I scrunch my nose in disgust.
"Gross."
"Why are they gross?" He asks curiously.
"Because they're sour and green."
He lets out a hearty laugh.
"The fact that they're green is hardly a valid reason." He says, I hear more muffled sounds and then the sound of a something shutting.
"What are you doing?" I ask whilst taking another bite.
"Getting a green apple."
I shake my head and sigh.
"So how are things with you and Adkins?" He asks his voice suddenly taking on an edge.
I'm a bit taken back, but then I remember this is Grey here. He's mercurial if anything.
"Good, he's coming to New York next week. Why do you ask?"
A second turns into 30 and then a minute.
"Are you still there, Grey?"
"Yes, I am."
Another moment of silence passes.
"So things are getting serious huh? I've heard long distance relationships can get tricky."
Why would they get tricky?
"I don't think it's tricky; we text and stuff so it's not like we go on ends not communicating and obviously we'll need to travel to each other's city every now and then so we can always catch up in person then."
"But surely you both have… needs." He grits out.
"Are you pissed, Grey? You sound pissed."
"I'm not pissed."
"Are you sure?"
"Yes I'm fucking sure." He snaps.
I bite my tongue in anger.
"Don't get all dirty mouth on me Grey. You fucking called me, remember?"
I hear him take a few deep breaths.
Seriously what am I even doing here? What are we doing here? He's the man who made the last few months a living hell for me; he verbally abused me and threatened me! I shouldn't be conversing like we're old buddies plus I'm pretty sure we both signed an agreement to leave each other alone.
"Look, Grey, what is it that you really want? You didn't just call me out of the blue to chat and see how I'm going-"
"Actually I did."
I close my eyes and rub my forehead. Don't fall for any of his shit, Steele.
"Okay well while that's thoughtful and just completely random as fuck, I have work to do so-"
"You never answered my question."
I throw my head back and stomp my foot.
"What question?" I ask exasperatedly.
"In regards to you and Adkins… you must have needs, with him being so far, I assume it gets hard for you both?"
"What do you mean? And what needs?"
"Sexual needs."
I cough on the salvia in my throat.
"Sexual needs? What sexual needs? There's nothing sexual or needy between Paul and I!"
"So you're not in a sexual relationship with him then?"
"Wha- No!"
"Hm, interesting. Well enjoy the rest of your night, Steele."
And he hangs up, right in my face. I stare at the phone in disbelief and shake my head in confusion. . .