Note: This story takes place in 2014, so I apologize if any of you are confused. The emails sent from Kate and Ana in one of the previous chapters say '2011', but that was a mistake. Sorry! ~ HA

Disclaimer: I do not own anything but the plot of this story.

Chapter 25

Christian's POV

"Fine." I hiss somewhat amenably and hang up, running my hand through my hair. Anastasia Steele is bringing a male to my household for dinner. Fuck.

I immediately pick up my phone and speed dial the only person I can trust and wait as he picks up on the first ring. "Mr. Grey?"

"Taylor, Miss Steele will be accompanied by a male for the evening. Please make sure that she's safe and if he tries anything, take him down. Bring her to Escala securely." I growl. Like hell she's going to get away from me because some guy caught her this evening. If it's Wate, I fucking swear...

"Very good, sir. I am just about to leave Escala. Anything else?" Taylor's bass voice interrupts my thoughts and I blink, surprised at my rage.

"No. Just be careful. We don't know anything about this guest." I sneer at the word.

"Yes sir."

I hang up and decide to check up on Gail in the kitchen to see what she's making. The moment I mentioned that Ana was coming over for dinner tonight, Gail had started cooking up a storm. She was especially fussy about the seating arrangements, though I don't understand why. Must be a girl thing.

"Something smells good, Gail. How is-"

"Not now, Mr. Grey! Out, out, out!" She brandishes a wooden spoon and shoos me out, much to my surprise. Have I let my staff have this much control over me? "Oh for heavens' sake!" I chuckle at Gail's exclamation as I hear the clatter of some pans and water running.

I decide to leave her in peace and stride to the Great Room, where my piano awaits. Stroking the cool exterior, I seat myself on the bench. Perhaps a quick piece? I check my phone and realize that it's 6:30 and I have some time. Straightening my suit, I lift up the cover and begin to play.

Who the hell is he? Is it Wate? Another colleague perhaps? Her boss? Oh fuck. What does he want with Anastasia? Why is he coming over? Am I going soft? Why did I allow this? You allowed this because you wanted to see her again, Grey. And possibly fuck her.

The shrill ring of my phone interrupts my reverie. "Grey."

"Hello Christian. You left work early today, is everything alright?"

"Everything is fine Ros. I swear, if you called just to ask me that question..." I growl.

Damn this woman.

"No, actually, I did not. I called to tell you that I've arrived safely at SeaTac and that I'll be able to attend the meeting with Eamon Kavanagh tomorrow after all. He wants our assistance, and in return, we get full media coverage for our 'Feed the World' campaign. Priceless, really, and I can't have you mess this up for GEH." She huffs.

I chuckle dryly."Damn, Ros. What's gotten you all riled up? Why would I mess this up for my own company?"

"You've been extremely distracted lately, Christian. And I found out that Gwen was having dinner with someone else yesterday. The consequences of being COO to Christian Grey - you might lose your girlfriend." She sighs. I'm astounded. Ros never mixes her business with pleasure; she's been working her ass off in Europe with the deal while I've entertained the challenging Miss Steele.

"Sounds rough. I wish you luck." I say, because honestly, I don't know what to say. I don't 'do' the girlfriend thing and I sure as hell haven't had any problems in my relationships. Girls do what I want, when I want, and they like it. It's a win-win situation.

Then why the fuck didn't it work out between your fifteen previous submissives, Grey?

"Thanks. I'll need it. See you tomorrow Christian. Don't you dare blow off this meeting." Threatens Ros.

"Bye." I chuckle as I hang up and check the time. 6:53. They'll be here soon. The dining table is set elegantly for two, no doubt Gail's work and I rise to my feet to greet the enchanting Miss Steele and her male companion. I couldn't care less that Gail didn't set up a place for a third person; this 'guest' can eat on the fucking floor for all I care.

With gritted teeth and arms clasped in front of me, I wait in the foyer as the elevator dings and the doors open.

Here we go.

"Buddy, wait, stop!" A loud musical voice calls as a flash of black and grey tumbles into my apartment, racing right towards me. Suddenly, the ball of fur trips headlong at my feet and piercing blue eyes stare up at me with a wide guiltlessness.

"What the hell?" The words escape my mouth before I can stop them and I pause before the alluring Miss Steele hustles in. My heart stops. She's all pale legs and luscious curves, in a delectable plum dress and black heels. She bends down at my feet to collect the mass of wriggling fur and I see a zipper run from her back to her ass.

Holy fucking hell. She looks hot and at this moment in time, I'd like nothing more than to peel her out of that dress. Here. Now.

"Mr. Grey, please meet my companion for tonight. Say hello bud." Her blissful voice reaches my ears and I gulp and straighten my posture, staring down at the bundle in her arms. It's a fucking puppy. I was jealous of a dog. I nearly burst out laughing in relief, but contain myself enough to realize that a fucking animal is in my apartment.

"Where did you find him?" I ask cautiously, watching as the little body wriggles in her arms.

She gives me a small smile and my cock twitches in response. She really is very beautiful. "Well, he snuck into my apartment when I was checking the mail. After I found him, I took him to the vet and found out that he's 3 months old and doesn't belong to anyone. I guess he's staying with me now." She coos and the little shit starts licking her face.

Fuck. I do have competition after all.

"Shall we sit?" I offer.

"Please." She follows me to the Great Room and we perch on the sofa. The dog is calmer now and sniffing warily at his surroundings. She strokes him lightly and he turns his attention to me. As she releases him, he scampers towards me and I stiffen. Holy shit, wait, wait, wait!

Panic sets in as the dog scrambles into my lap and seats himself comfortably. With a wide yawn, he lays his head on his paws and closes his eyes. Moments later, he opens one and gives me a look as if saying Well? Are you going to touch me?

I hold my breath, but shockingly find that the darkness is ominously quiet. Tentatively, I stroke his fur and let out my bated breath. He's soft, warm, and trusting. Adventurously, I caress a spot just behind his ear and he groans in his sleep, his hind leg twitching. Ana lets out a little laugh.

"You found his sweet spot." She beams at me and I'm surprised at my gentleness towards this harmless creature. All my previous anger and jealousy vanishes as I stroke him. I'd like to find your sweet spot, Miss Steele.

"What's his name?" I ask softly, hoping not to wake him.

"He doesn't have one yet, but now..." I look up as she trails off. Her big blue eyes are tender and it's taking all my self-control not to drop the pup and fuck her right here. That look calls to me on some carnal level.

"Yes?" I prompt her.

"I think I'll call him Grey."

"Did that really happen? I didn't know Elliot could be that wild!" I watch with barely contained amusement as Anastasia laughs, tossing her chocolate mane over one shoulder. The motion distracts me and I cannot believe that I am having dinner with this... goddess.

"More wine?"

"Please." I top her glass and watch as she politely takes a sip. She's going to need more for what I have to show her tonight.

"Mmm. This is delicious." She gives me a coy grin and I flash her my all-American boy smile.

"Domaine Leroy Musigny Grand Cru." I say with a flourish. She laughs again.

"I have no knowledge of wine Christian. You could give me some dishwater and call it something fancy and I wouldn't know the difference." She admits as she takes a bite of her potato salad. Gail has outdone herself. We began the meal with a light crusty French bread and we're now eating Gail's famous potato salad and sirloin steak. It's a simple yet delicious meal.

"I doubt I'd give you dishwater Miss Steele. I can afford much more."

She sips her wine before replying with a wrinkled nose. "Are you sure? This sure tastes like dishwater to me."

I burst out laughing and she grins. Damn. She makes me laugh like no one else. "You're full of surprises Miss Steele. Thank you." I whisper.

"For what?" Her look is quizzical yet thoughtfulness glints in her eyes.

"For making me laugh and for doing... this. And for naming your dog after me." I smirk at the last statement and she sighs.

"Of course. Thank you for an enlightening evening, Mr. Grey."

Shit. This woman takes my breath away, but all good things must come to an end...

"Anastasia, I have something to show you."

She looks up from her plate and a frown crosses over her face at my tone. She places her napkin on the table, leaving a small portion of steak and salad. At this point, I want to call her out on it, but I have to admit that I'm beyond anxious. How will she react?

"Okay."

"Anastasia, I want you to know that you can leave at any time. Taylor is on speed dial and he will escort you and Grey home." I smile grimly, thinking of the little pup that Taylor has agreed to watch for the rest of our evening.

"Christian, I'm not going anywhere. Please just open the door." She looks at me with her head held high, but I see a small flare of worry in her swirling blue eyes.

"As you wish." I twist the key in the lock and swing the door open, releasing her hand as we step inside. Taking a deep breath, I switch on the lights and hear an audible gasp.

Fuck.

She strides slowly from the doorway, mouth agape as she takes in my sanctuary. Realizing that I'm watching her, she quickly shuts her mouth and runs her hand over the wall of canes. I'm inspecting her every move. Her posture is deceptively relaxed, but I can see from the stiffness of her legs that she's having trouble keeping her emotions at bay.

The silence stretches as she runs her fingers over the four-poster's satin sheets and glances at the cross. She looks up and down, to her left and to her right, anywhere but at me, touching with faltering fingers.

"Say something." I whisper hoarsely. Having her in here is mind-numbingly distracting.

She pauses and slowly turns around, fidgeting. "I knew you had a secret Christian, but this is..."

"Terrifying?" I finish her sentence. She cautiously glances upwards at me.

"Overwhelming." She corrects. I let out a whoosh of air. She's not scared. "So you're a sadist?"

I smile humorlessly at the girl before me. More like Satan himself. "No. I'm a dominant."

"And you do this to women?"

"Women who want me to."

She nods and breaks eye contact, fiddling with a flogger. "Why?" She whispers.

"I like the control it gives me. I want the women I do this with to completely surrender themselves to my will - I want their trust and their submission."

She is unnaturally quiet, but she responds faster than I've expected. "And you want me to-?"

"Yes."

I can hear her erratic breathing and it turns me on. Her cheeks flush and she stands up straighter. "What makes you think I want this?"

I can feel every muscle clench and I take a sharp breath. "Anastasia, we can discuss this downstairs. Please come with me. Having you in here is a little too tempting."

Her eyes widen fractionally and as she steps past me hastily, I get a whiff of her heavenly autumnal scent. Lord have mercy.

When we enter my office, I hand her the contract. "If you agree to be my submissive, you will be expected to follow these rules and guidelines. Failure to comply with these will result in punishment while your obedience will be rewarded. We can negotiate any actions that you are not willing to do."

She gives me a mild look before opening the packet, skimming over the pages. I watch as she progresses through the paperwork, struggling to maintain her composure. Finally, she sets down the packet and holds her head in her hands, cheeks flushed. She looks bangable and I want nothing more than to bury myself inside her on my desk, but I restrain myself.

"Anastasia." She doesn't look up. Dammit, look at me! "Anastasia." Her head snaps up at my tone and she looks alarmed. I run my hands through my hair. What are you thinking, baby? "Penny for your thoughts?"

"I-I-I'm just so-" she stammers and takes a deep breath. "How many before me?"

Her question catches me off guard and I give her a skeptical look. "Are you sure you want to know?"

She raises an eyebrow at me and I sigh. "Fifteen."

She nods though I can detect a hint of worry in her glinting eyes. "If there were fifteen before me, then you must have a steady source of girls. Why me?"

I shrug, trying not to show my surprise at her casualness. "You're interesting."

"Gee, thanks." She rolls her eyes and I feel a flare of anger deep in the pits of my stomach.

"Do that again, and I will take you across my knee."

"Oh." Her eyes are wide with disbelief, and I detect a trace of lust. That's right baby.

"Anastasia, if you agree to be mine, I will be devoted to you. What you fail to realize is that in most Dom-Sub relationships, the submissives are the ones that hold all the power. Fear is in the mind."

She takes a deep breath again and fixes her penetrating gaze on me. "I've never had this kind of conversation before."

"Neither have I."

Her face contorts with confusion. "What do you mean?"

I sigh, perching on the edge of my desk in front of her. "The women I did this with knew exactly what they wanted. They were experienced in this... lifestyle." I struggle to explain myself. "You on the other hand... you've most likely never even seen a whip in your life."

She gives me a weak smile. "It looked different from what I thought." She admits quietly. I chuckle at her reply. We collapse into an apprehensive silence, the tension palpable and twisting, like a snake. Her eyes are cast downward, blank, and she seems lost in thought. All I can think about is her dress pooling at her feet, her creamy skin on mine, nothing but her heels on... I gulp and shift, waves of anxiety radiating off of me. Get a grip Grey! This is your area of expertise. Stay strong. I reassure myself, but initially, I can stand it no longer.

"Please try." I implore her and she stiffens in her seat. Her innocuous eyes blink as she shifts into focus and she lets out a reluctant huff.

"Christian, what makes you think I'd make a good submissive?"

Good question Miss Steele. "I don't know. But that's what I want to find out. I want to push your limits, reward you, and punish you."

She closes her eyes and re-opens them. "What do I get out of this?"

Honesty is the best policy, Christian. Grace's words ring in my ears and I decide to heed her advice for once.

"Me."

"Alright Christian. I've signed your NDA and am considering your contract. What now?" Ana's perkiness is back now that the heavy stuff is out of the way and she seems more relaxed. The only regret I have is that she seems to be maintaining her distance.

"You tell me Miss Steele." I grin at her as she sips her wine, seated on the couch. She watches Grey out of the corner of her eye as he scampers about, squeaking at odd bits of furniture.

"He needs a home you know." She murmurs. I tear my gaze away from her and watch the pup run about. "My apartment doesn't allow dogs. I realized that on my way here. I would've loved the company though." Her face contorts to betray her longing and I immediately feel my insides clench.

Fuck this shit.

I pull her towards me and she gasps as wine sloshes over her glass, tumbling on to the white carpet. There are excited yips as Grey rushes over towards the spilled liquid, but I couldn't care less.

Anastasia is on my lap and we're making out like two teenagers that have never kissed before. I feel my erection poke her fine, fine ass and she groans against my lips. "I want you. Now." I growl against her lips as she tugs on my hair.

She moans as I start to slide her zipper down her flawless back, caressing her warm skin with my fingers. "Christian." My name out of her mouth... Oh god. Her plea is arousing as fuck and I suck at her neck before laying her back against the sofa, her hair cascading down the side. I lean down to kiss her again and she writhes against me. Lord. As I brush my fingers over her zipper once again, she stiffens.

"Wait." Her voice is warm and she's flushed an attractive crimson. I sit up, blinking. "I have to go."

Shit! No, no, no, this was going perfectly. She's leaving me! I panic at the realization as she gets up, sliding her zipper up. Her heels are back on her feet and she isn't making eye contact with me. I stand up and tug her arm. "Don't go." I plant a soft kiss against her lips and lean my forehead against hers, caressing her cheeks with my thumbs.

"I'm not leaving you. I'm just going home, that's all. I need some time to think about this... us."

"Anastasia, please consider the contract. I've never wanted anything more than I do now. I want to make this work. Make us work." As the words leave my mouth, I know that this is the truth, whether she accepts it or not.

"Christian, I don't know if I can. I want more. I-I need more." Fuck! More? I don't do 'more'. Is this the end?

"Hearts and flowers? Dating? Ana, that's not something I know."

"I don't know about your world either. Why? Why can't you have a normal relationship?" Her eyes are persistent and fiery and I sigh with frustration.

"I told you, I just can't. You'd be out of here if I told you why."

"So there's a reason?" Shit. She's playing mind games.

"Anastasia-"

"I just don't want to be hurt. I don't want to be used for my body and I don't want to be some girl you just fuck occasionally to escape reality." She whispers.

"Don't you dare say that ever again." I feel hot boiling rage bubble in my stomach and I press an insistent kiss on her indulgent lips. "Your body is beautiful, yes, but so is your mind. Don't you ever think that I want to use you for your body. Submission is about trust, unwavering faith, and giving up control to someone you can rely on. I want to be that person for you." I growl.

She nods. "I'll think about it." She whispers, hugging herself.

"Good girl." I give her one more relieved kiss and step back, reluctantly releasing her. It's not a no. She picks up her purse and calls to Grey, who stumbles over from the tipped over wineglass. I'm still surprised that she named him after me, but I'm honored all the same. Alright Miss Steele, I'll help you out. "Ana, if you'd like, Grey can stay with me. I have more than enough room. Perhaps you can come by tomorrow after work and drop him off?"

She visibly staggers at my proposal but a beautiful beam overwrites her features. "Thank you Christian! That'd be wonderful. Look Grey, we found you a home! Maybe you can add some color to this place." She coos to the puppy and I laugh. I'm euphoric. She's considering the proposal. Yes!

"Good bye Miss Steele." I kiss her hand and she coyly beams. Bending down to face the pup, I foolishly decide to talk to him. "Good bye Grey. See you tomorrow." He gives me a woof and licks my chin unexpectedly. I give him a faltering pat, still reeling from the uncharacteristic display of affection as Ana picks him up and Taylor joins us in the foyer.

"Miss Steele." He gestures at the elevator as it arrives and I struggle to maintain my emotions. She's leaving the apartment, but she's not fleeing... is she?

Ana gives me one last smile before entering the elevator and the doors close. I'm all alone and I strangely miss her and the pup already. His piercing crystalline eyes remind me of her and to think, I've just offered him my home. I groan and flop on to the sofa.

What've you done Grey? You just let a girl walk in with a dog and offered it a fucking home! How the hell will you take care of it when you can barely heat up your own meals? Fuck!

My despondent thoughts cease when I think of the fact that Ana will be here tomorrow.

Perhaps we could have some fun then...

"Andrea, I need the latest MacBook and an iPhone delivered with a dozen white roses tomorrow afternoon at 4 to Miss Anastasia Steele. Ask Barney for the details and her address." I've dialed my secretary at 11:30 PM, but her job description entails that she must be there for me at all times.

"Yes Mr. Grey. Would you like to send a message?"

A message? The fuck? "Alright..." I trail off.

"Sir?" She prompts me, struggling to hide the astonishment in her voice. Yeah, yeah. A girl. I can be nice to girls if I want.

"Something like 'I hope your first day of work went well. Congratulations. I look forward to seeing you. Christian.'" I finish. I hear furious scribbling on the other end and smile at Andrea's competence.

"Anything else sir?"

"That'll be all. Email me the shipping arrangements."

"Yes sir. Good night."

I hang up and grin to myself. If this doesn't convince Anastasia to be mine, I don't know what will. I'm too hopped up on adrenaline to go to bed so I decide to work some more. When I open my inbox, there's an email from Flynn from over six hours ago. Interesting.

From: John Flynn

Subject: Appointment?

Date: September 24th, 2014 17:47

To: Christian Grey

Hello Christian,

I find it rather strange that our last appointment was over two months ago. You talked about a 'mystery brunette' who haunted your dreams, and I assume that you've slipped back into your work. I must say, you're quite preoccupied, as you've refused to see me when I've scheduled over four appointments for you these past couple months. Is everything all right? Is it safe to assume that you haven't dropped off the face of the Earth? Respond ASAP, I'd like to see you on Wednesday.

Sincerely,

John Flynn

Professional Clinical Counselor, Seattle Psychology

I read over the email childishly, imitating his haughty English accent. Realizing my immaturity, I scoff at myself and reluctantly respond. To my surprise, I realize that I have been busy - dealing with Ros in Europe, closing deals, interacting with Eamon, Miss Steele...

From: Christian Grey

Subject: Recent Developments

Date: September 24th, 2014 23:38

To: John Flynn

Flynn,

I apologize for my lack of communication. I've been entirely busy with running my company and pursuing my 'mystery brunette' as you call her. Of course, you'll be hearing all about that this Wednesday. Shall we say at approximately 7?

Christian Grey

CEO, Grey Enterprises Holdings Inc.

I know he won't respond. He's probably asleep. Sighing to myself, I let my mind drift as I read Barney's email about our latest solar-powered tablet. The schematics look great, but there are minor fixes to make. 'Fred wants to look in at the costs to manufacture this product so I'm still waiting for your approval to send him the budget plan. He really wants to make this work.'

Work...

Work...

Work.

I snap out of my daze at the word and pick up my phone, dialing Welch. He picks up after a couple seconds and answers in his usual rasp. "Mr. Grey."

"I need a search done on Anastasia Steele. Find me her employer."

"One moment sir." I hear rustling and a grunt and then muffled silence. Following that, there is the unmistakable click of fingers on a keyboard and a nervous tapping.

"Mr. Grey?"

"Still here, Welch."

"She starts her new job as Assistant Commissioning Editor to Yvonne Woods at Becker & Mayer tomorrow sir."

"Great. That'll be all."

"Good night sir."

I hang up and run my hand through my hair, contemplating. Yvonne Woods, huh? My wayward thoughts drift through the possibilities of opposing such a massive company, especially one with Woods' wife. Statistics show that it is one of the most successful publishing houses in Seattle, and my view shifts. Perhaps if I conquer this place and SIP... Thinking of the delectable Anastasia, I can't help but feel impressed. Miss Steele, you must work harder than I thought if you were able to land this job.

I email Ros, telling her about my plan to overpower SIP. Perhaps I can make Woods' life harder by getting to him through his wife. If I can build SIP to oppose Becker & Mayer, then conquer both places,I'd be killing two birds with one stone - make Mrs. Woods' life hell and watch Anastasia Steele succeed.

Perfect.

I head to bed with my plan in mind, surprisingly excited by the possible outcomes.

Perhaps I can celebrate with Grey tomorrow when he arrives.

I'm glad you guys liked Grey. :) Did you enjoy how he got his name? Did you like his interaction with Mr. G? How do you think he'll change CG's life? Review! ~ HA