Chapter 29 - For Love & Family


Ana

Why can't you lengthen a day? If the Masters of Time gave me a choice, today would be that day. There are those moments you want to bottle and savor. Instead, they dissipate in a hurried blur only to be stored partially in memories or captured in photographs.

Christian has been ablaze with activity since I approved his request to have an early wedding. Thoughts from the night before made my slumber antsy with anticipation. I couldn't believe this was really happening. I lost most of my night tossing and turning, beaming and tittering like a love-struck teen. As a gesture, Christian was the one who recommends that we sleep apart, he said the next time he takes me we'll be man and wife.

The day officially began with the frenzied high-pitched screams and excitement of both Teddy and Phoebe after Christian announced our plans. Through their enthusiasm, they jumped up and down on the sofa to my disapproval, but I can let them have that exceptional moment. When they calmed down, they took off running back to their rooms.

After I recommended my choice for the venue of the ceremony, my fiancé wasted no time in planning. He's been on the phone for the entire morning, making arrangements for both the wedding and our respective places of work. He had a million calls to make for himself, whereas for me and the children all he needed to do was to contact Elliot and the school. I assisted Phoebe and Teddy in gathering what they would need for two days. The fact that I choose to get married at my house is the only thing I knew about the wedding, oh and the fact that he's been liaising with Mrs. Cameron all morning.

The kids were heavily distracted only an hour into the flight, which made it easy for me to fall victim to my own drowsiness. In the end, Christian teased me for being out for four hours.

We pulled onto the property close to five in the afternoon and the sun has already departed, but it seems like we'd chased the sun to ends of the earth. String lights dot the brushes along the driveway leading to the front of the house and right on cue, Mrs. Cameron exits the house all smiles. I never knew or had a grandmother but if I was given a choice, she would definitely be my pick. As soon as the car door opens the children go running towards her, she bends down to meet them with warm, loving hugs. Christian gets out the driver's seat and unloads the trunk along with Sawyer and Taylor, who followed us from the airport in another car.

I stand off to the side watching everyone bustle and sparkle in their own way. This is an exciting and electrically charged day, but it's almost over. The kids, Taylor and Sawyer make their way into the house, Christian on the other hand nods and gestures to Mrs. Cameron's given report. They're speaking hushed and quite suspiciously. I do nothing but twiddle my fingers and occasionally toy with my ring, I'm curious and feel a bit left out. But knowing Christian, he wouldn't be acting this way unless it's a surprise. During their secretive conversation as if he can sense my uneasiness, he turns to me and presents a reassuring smile.

Ninety minutes later, I'm alone with Lidia who has carefully dedicated every second to detail and assisted me from head to toe. She spreads the modest train at the back of my dress and steps away prideful, she stares at me in awe and satisfaction. I walk slowly towards the full-length mirror and I'm fascinated myself. My makeup is flawless and she's given me that smoky-eyed look that I've wanted but couldn't reproduce myself. My hair is voluminous and radiant it's pinned in a side swept hairstyle with cascading curls over my right shoulder. Hanging from my lobes, the light catches the hues of a pair of elegant diamond crystal earrings with a matching bracelet. But the highlight of this precious moment is my dress, and Mrs. Cameron captured my vision perfectly. It's a modern version of the dress I had ten years ago, she remembered. A simple laced bodice, light sweetheart empire waist chiffon dress. Wanting to examine the rest I twist my body, the dress starts at my mid-back and is stylishly laced long my spine. My shoes are low with lace trimmings.

Taking a moment, I interlock my fingers and close my eyes, breathing steadily. There's a prickly sensation seeping at the back of my eyes forcing it's way to the surface. Not many people get a chance to be with the one love, but here I am, standing dazed and mesmerized by my own reflection.

"Ms. Steele" I open my eyes to Lidia's voice, "Are you okay?"

"Yes," I smile.

"You look breath-taking" she proclaims, before glancing at her rose diamond-studded watch.

"Thank you"

"I believe it's time Ms. Steele. . . .Are you ready?"

"Yes," I say, very assured and humble.

Mrs. Cameron stands in front of the exit which leads to the garden. The anxious expression on her face dissolves when she spots me gliding towards her with Lidia at my side.

"Thank you, Mrs. Cameron. For everything"

"Oh no time for that, go on, he's waiting for you"

Eagerly, she moves aside from the doorway allowing me to step over the threshold on to the backyard deck. Hanging string lights and crystals illuminate the darkness, turning the night into a vision. To my right on the far end, there's a table with seating for four with a beautiful centerpiece of a fresh white bouquet, full of peonies, roses, and royal green ferns. I suddenly recognize the undeniable touch of my children's hands gripping my own I look down to their innocent, smiling faces. Phoebe is attired in a beautiful white dress with a royal blue waistband and Teddy wearing a white shirt and black pants with royal blue suspenders. I crouch down to hug and kiss them, I've never seen them so happy, Teddy's teeth are showing across his face and he's holding on to a wooden box. They take me in the other direction, and there I see him. Christian stands under the links of starry lights, staring at me transfixed. The kids take me to him and they both offer my hands to him. I'm tempted to giggle at his flabbergasted expression, his gobsmacked eyes pore over me and it has turned up my anxiety.

"You're an angel, Anastasia . . . . You look stunning"

"Thank you" my cheeks heat up.

"I love you"

"I love you too" I whisper, breathing the urge to cry. Mrs. Cameron stands next to the children and looks on.

"Mr. Grey, are we ready?" the priest intervenes politely.

. . . . .

"I gave you my love a long time ago,

Because I believed you were the person, I was meant to be with,

The person that will inspire me to do better,

To be stronger,

To live each day full of fearless compassion and spirit.

But tonight Christian Grey, I give you my heart,

Because you are my best friend,

And I promise to love and cherish you for the rest of my days,

. . . . . Unconditionally"

I stare back at his lips hang lax and his eyes glisten over. Mrs. Cameron quietly sobs next to us.

"Wow" he breathes, "I didn't. . ."

"Me neither" I soothe, "It's okay"

"No, I can do this"

I tighten my grip on hands, encouraging him with a nod.

"Anastasia Steele, I promise to love you every day,

To care for you,

To be worthy of your love,

I promise to devote myself to you and our children,

I will protect you at all cost,

Carry your burdens and your challenges,

And brighten that light that makes you unique and perfect in my eyes.

I promise to walk with you hand in hand every day,

And to love and cherish you forever,

. . . . Unconditionally"

Eventually, I release the breath I didn't realize I was holding, I wish this moment could last forever.

"Do we have the rings" the man enquired, delighted.

Cheerful and beaming, Teddy presents his small wooden box, opened. Surprisingly, lying on a tiny pillow are the rings I've had my eye on for weeks, Christian caught me ogling at them over the internet. He removes the diamond-encrusted ring and slips it onto my finger and I do the same. And before he heard the final words, he was already on me, taking my breath away in a smooth, captivating kiss.

This magical night couldn't be more picture-perfect; it's just the four of us under the stars. Dinner and dessert are served by the Grey's personal household chef. Teddy and Phoebe light sparklers and zigzag jubilant across the grassy knoll close to the garden. Christian and I sit silent, holding hands, and occasionally giggling at the children's antics. In the background, soft soothing music drifts through the air.

"Are you happy?" he asks gently, rubbing his thumb over my knuckles.

"Yes, madly" I retort, "And you?"

"Irrevocably"

"You know," I pause, "when we get back there'll be questions. . ."

"I only answer to you, my love"

"I'm serious," I chuckle, "I don't want to create a rift between you and your family. . ."

"And you won't. You, Teddy, Phoebe, you're my family, let me worry about the rest"

"So I guess you'll call them tomorrow!"

"No. We'll make the announcement when we go home. Besides, I left my phone back at the Penthouse"

"So did I" I laugh.

"If it's important, they can reach Taylor or Sawyer. Can't we enjoy our wedding day uninterrupted? I don't think that's too much to ask"

I sigh, reminiscing about the day. Christian Grey was able to produce a new everlasting memory in mere hours. I wish I could relive this moment every day for a week. Still holding my hand, he lifts himself off the chair.

"Dance with me" he requests softly.

We take minute steps to the melody of the music. I can feel the heat radiating from his body into mine, my head rests comfortably on his chest as I'm comforted by his warm embrace. The children become our small audience as they position themselves on the steps of the deck and watch us in awe. The world around us seems to have floated off, I inhale his scent continuously and my fingers strokes the lapels of his jacket. Sporadically, I would feel his lips press tender kisses on my forehead.

"Christian" I whisper in a whimper.

"Yes my love"

"Don't ever let me go"

"Never"

. . . . .

In their own admirable way, they promised to stay awake with us but it's almost midnight and our children have officially lost the battle of the night. Apparently, Mrs. Cameron observed their weariness and comes to their rescue, insisting on taking them inside to retire for the night. Moments later, she returned stating that she herself will take her leave. Mrs. Cameron is at the helm of the skeleton staff facilitated at the house, most of them are employees of the Grey's residence. Again, I thank her for the support and for making this night unbelievably miraculous.

. . . . .

I'm aroused by his fragrance, within his arms I stir and open my eyes. The lights are dim and I recognize that we're inside the house. My husband is carrying me up the stairs to our room. We were laughing, talking and drinking champagne, that must have been hours ago and I must have fallen asleep. When he kicks the door closed behind us I reach up missing his mouth, my lips land awkwardly on his chin.

"I'm sorry I woke you," he says.

"Don't be. Put me down" I utter softly.

He does what I ask without objection, the moonlight slivers through the curtains, lending the right amount of light for this moment. I step out of my shoes and closed the gap between us. His finger trails along my bare skin and down my spine. Willingly, I tilt my head allowing him to skim his lips down the side of my neck.

"Make love to me, Christian" I request, softly.

I stay still as he goes around me, continuously peppering kisses along my bare shoulders. My eyes mechanically close, drunken in a euphoric stupor. Feeling the thin ribbon along my spine loosen, the back of my dress slackens then pools around my ankles. Not long, my strapless bra is removed. When I open my eyes, he's standing before me, raking my entire body with his eyes from head to toe. A small groan escapes his throat before he scoops me up and gently lays me on the bed. I watch him slowly undress, our eyes passionately locked on each other, my breath quickens as I grace my gaze across his naked body.

Brazenly, my arched legs fall open when he smoothly positions himself over me. Beguiled by his slow, passionate kiss the surface of my skin gradual heats. I feel his harden chest brush over the tips of my tightened nipples, shooting pleasure across my body. His hand tenderly captures my breast tweaking the sensitive flesh between his fingertips. A small grunt leaves him when he rubs his erection against the dampened surface of my panties. The sensation is heavenly and I moan deeply into his mouth as he devours my mine like a starving man. Suddenly, I feel a lone finger slide between the seams of my sex, making tender circles against the hot mound of flesh. Everything within me tightens and I'm ready to explode. He grunts again within our kiss tearing the flimsy lacy material away. In an instant, his mouth is transferred from my mouth to my heated core. I feverishly combust, screeching softly, arching my body, scrunching the sheets between my fingers. He kisses me intimately plunging his tongue into my opening, tasting everything that I have to offer fully. On the verge of ecstasy, my legs quiver for the inevitable. His tongue strokes me through, from top to bottom.

"Do I please you?" he taunts.

I don't reply. I'm unable to form coherent sentences under these circumstances . . . . . Again his mouth takes me and I cry out.

"Mrs. Grey, do I please you?" he breathes against my sensitive labia.

"Y-yes" I say panting, "you please me, Christian"

Before fastening my legs in his hands my body arches into his mouth, and consuming me greedily. As my climax ripples through my body, I scream his name over and over in praise.

Christian is taking charge of my body, and I readily surrender to him. We make love leisurely and passionate, expressing our feelings and devotions through simple words and actions. I let him take me repeatedly; coiling me into a frenzied sex-slave then releasing me into an enraptured sea of desire. The exquisite feelings of his length moving inside me prickle my eyes into tears. Incessant waves of my orgasms curl through my body, making me want more. He's divine. His skin glistens in sweat, making the muscles flexing across his arms and chest even sexier, while streams of perspiration meander down the side of his face and drip onto my cheek.

After reaching my apex five times already, I'm pinned below him, exhausted and satisfied. But it's clear that he hasn't had his fill.

"Christian" I close my eyes under duress of enraptured penetration, "You make me feel so good"

"It's you, dearest Ana, you scorch me with infinite desire . . . . . I want to look into those beautiful eyes" he professes, "Look at me, my love"

I obey, his gaze orders my body to do his will. Again I feel that tingle, but I thought I was done. He palms my hips raising me a bit further, thrusting deeper, the momentum picks up and we're hungry for each other.

"God Ana you're killing me" he grunts, "You feel so good . . . I don't want to stop"

"I'm coming" I yelp, curving my spine to his slick body.

"Fuck" he explodes, filling me with his liquid heat.

He collapses on his elbows, breathing heavily against my neck. The moisture of sweat, the scent of sex and our heartbeats commingle with our love. He rolls on to his back and pulls me into his arms. I want all of our days and nights from hereon to be filled like this, untainted love and passion.

. . . . .

Christian

I opened my eyes to the vision lying next to me. My wife is sleeping soundly, stretched out on her stomach. Deep brown strands of hair conceal her face and the sheets cover her elegant body. My eyes follow the outline under covers and so my mind paints a vivid picture of what's underneath. Using two fingers, I sweep the curls from her face and place a tiny kiss against the crook of her neck. She looks beautiful sleeping peacefully. Below the sheets, my hand trails along her skin and over her soft curves. The comforting warmth of her body makes me hard instantly, I must feel her again. Under the sheets, I slowly urge her legs apart then press the tip of my cock to her entrance. The sensation is like having her soft lips over my crown. She stirs and smiles, murmuring my name.

"I hope you don't mind," I say against her ear.

"Only if you promise to wake me like this more often", her lips curve mildly.

I was already in her by an inch and she was sucking me with a gluttonous force. There were times when the primitive need to drive myself into her would overcome me, putting my own satisfaction before hers, because she feels so good. But during our hiatus it made me question myself and my control. Ana's sexual prowess has the capability to drive me to my knees, the contact alone is so pleasurable that the only resolution is to come inside of her. I can tell that she's ready, having her face down under me triggers a heightened sense to take control of her body, and my desire to fuck her senseless slowly threatens to take over. Her tight channel is too inviting to decline, I push my erection into her then listen to her gasp and writhe in desire. My jaw locks under the instant feeling of her body. Relentless and against my will, my hips screw its way into her channel. Repeated groans echo from my throat reflecting the overwhelming pleasure that's racking through my body.

"Christian. . . ."

Her tangled hair is cast over her face, leaving her pretty open mouth exposed. She lifts her ass to a considerable angle and I can feel myself go all the way to the hilt. My chest heaves against her back and with each thrust I can hear her wispy moans which incites me to give her more, her anxious desperate fingers tangle the sheets as my body gives her long, guttural stabbing strokes, plunging deeper and deeper. My fingers find its way under her hip to her clit rubbing her in small, penetrating circles. With a tightened fist, she pounds the mattress, bawling sweetly within her pillow. Her perfect tight pussy convulses, gripping me like a glove. In our passion, I find myself cursing against her ear as her own orgasm ripples through me. That's when I press my face against her hair and inhale, then I release. . . .

"Ana," I whimper almost breathless, "I love you"

"I love you too"

. . . .

I've overly exhausted my wife.

It's almost noon and she remains asleep upstairs. At least it's given me the chance to hang by the pool, spend time with the children and explore the house. At the end of the tour I wondered, Ana must have been lonely here. With no siblings, a detached absentee mother plus an ailing father, her life must have been forlorn. I myself couldn't imagine growing up without Elliot and Mia. I understand now why she spent so much time with Mia, why she admired my grandfather. When I was the child, I thought she was an infatuated nuisance buzzing around Elliot but apparently, our family was the compound that filled the void in her life.

Lunch is available and I've asked the cooks to prepare plates for the children. Phoebe and Elliot are in the entertainment room on the other side of the house, glued to the TV. Sipping on a pleasantly chilled glass of mimosa I mull over the events of last night when my wife's words flood my thoughts. She's right, out of courtesy, we should at least tell my family. But in the end what goes on between Ana and I is none of their business. Taylor strolls into the room dressed casually in a shirt and jeans I haven't seen this side of him in years, I stand before he can approach me. His expression suggests that he has something to account.

"Sir"

"Yes, Taylor" I acknowledge, sinking my hands into my pockets.

"Mrs. Gr- . . . . . . I apologize, sir. Your mother just called, she's been calling since last night"

"And"

"She insisting that she has a word with you, and each time I told her that you cannot be disturbed"

"Good, never mind my mother's persistence. How many times has she called?"

"So far . . . eight. She claims that she has important news and she must speak to you"

"Did she tell you what this important news is?"

"No, sir

"It's important! It's important but she couldn't tell you what's so urgent"

"No, sir"

"Taylor, my mother is having an episode. I left Seattle without telling her and now she wants to know what's going on . . . Is everything on schedule?" I divert.

"Yes, sir, we should be up by three"

"Good"

Now I have to get my wife out of bed, but what I have in mind may put her back to sleep.

. . . . .

And just like that, we're back in Seattle.

The overhead lighting reveals the natural shades of browns streaking through her hair. Aware that I'm gaping at her she periodically glances at me in the corner of eyes and blushed profusely. But nevertheless she's focused and finger walks through the form. Everything she does is so sexy; occasionally she would run her tongue along her lower lip while she reads. If this wasn't important I would be bold enough to turn her face and taste her mouth this very instant.

"When is the court hearing?" she says softly, looking up at me from the document.

"It isn't necessary, Cassius will handle those formalities. We just need to approve the name change. Everything will be finalized by the end of tomorrow"

"Hmmm, they'll be so happy when you tell them. You think of everything Mr. Grey"

"Almost everything" I take the pen from her fingers and toss it onto the breakfast bar, "Let's play hooky tomorrow, the children are going to school, we can have the Penthouse to ourselves and I promise, you'll be too tired to go to work anyway"

I trap her in my arms against the counter and gently lean in.

"Fiend"

"Oh you have no idea, Mrs. Grey, you're in for a treat tonight" I grin, slanting my mouth across hers.

I can feel myself hardening again and so can she. Her small hands fist the ends of my hair as our tongues twist deliciously against each other. My hand cups the back of her neck, deepening our connection.

"No fair," she whines playfully against my lips, "Tonight is my turn, and trust me I think you'll like what I have to offer"

"Hmm, well in that case . . ."

We're jolted by loud screams then the sound of Phoebe and Theodore bolting across the living room. In response, we hear the voices of my mother and Mia reply to their obvious excitement. I'm a bit concerned that my mother and my sister have entered our home, unannounced.

"Sooner than you thought, huh?" Ana emits before giving me a chaste kiss.

I don't reply, instead, I take her hand walk towards the commotion. Mia and my mother stand in the middle of the twins as they talk rapidly between each other, making their heads twist from side to side at a quickening pace. Mother smiles at them lively until she spots us entering the room. She breathes a sigh of relief and places her hands on her chest.

"My goodness, Christian and Anastasia, I was so worried. Where did you go?"

I don't let go of Ana's hand even though my mother is embracing me.

"I've been trying to reach you. I need to talk to you . . . . privately"

Calmly, I shift my eyes to the kids who are cognisant that privacy is needed right about now.

"Phoebe and I are going upstairs, Dad," my son says intuitively, taking his sister's hand, exiting quickly.

"It's alright, Mother, you can speak to us both, there are no secrets between Ana and me" I state, absolute.

"I respect that," she nods respectfully, "Well it's about-"

Her electric blue eyes dip to our interlocked fingers then moves to Ana's left hand. We hear her catch her breath softly, her hands fall to her sides pulling back her shoulders. Mia is curious about my mother's lack of words, she comes to us then follows Mother's shocked gaze. My sister's emotions bubble to the surface in an explosive shriek and in one swift motion, she crashes into Ana with open arms.

"Wow, when did this happen?" she bounces excitedly, forcing my wife to let go of my hand to return her embrace, "You two eloped, how romantic. Mother, they eloped-"

"I can see that Mia" she answers with a tight grin.

"Congratulations to you both," Mia beams.

"Thank you, Mia" Ana blushes.

"Way to go, bro, you finally grew a pair. Now how am I going to top this" she declares boldly.

"Oh I'm sure you'll find a way, Mia" I shot back with a smirk.

"Excuse me, I have to tell Eliot about this," she says walking away with her phone clutched in her palm.

"You two eloped," Mother begins, "I would be lying if I said I was surprised by such a move. This was your idea, wasn't it Christian? Did you have a problem convincing Anastasia?"

"No," I look over to her, "She was just as eager as I was, I couldn't wait, Mother"

She sighs, "After nine long years, why not. I simply thought your wedding would have been shared by all of us, this is all so . . . . Unexpected, but congratulations"

"Grace, we . . ."

"No," she interrupts Ana, "I'll be alright, it was your decision and I perfectly understand, and as Mia rightfully said, it's romantic" she winks at me. "What I have to say is not relevant to you or new bride at this time, I'll come at a later time-"

"Mother, you're already, we'd like to know what is so important"

She pauses and purses her lips ruefully, clasping her hands together. "Vittoria Sana tried to kill herself Tuesday night, she's resting at this time and they're watching her closely. Her parents are convinced that you treated her cruel and embarrassed their daughter by throwing her out of Grey House. They say she was involved in a spat with you and Anastasia"

"No, there was no spat, it was all me. Ana said nothing, then she threatened her without merit. Vittoria had no business being at the Grey House, I warned her what would happen if came near me or my family. Vittoria broke things off months ago, it had nothing to do Ana or the children, this was my decision, and I thought she respected it"

"I understand, Christian, but we've been bombarded with calls to respond on Vittoria's suicide attempt. There are claims that Ana forced you to make a decision between herself and Vittoria"

"No"

"Yes, son, I'm sorry this happening, and on the verge of your nuptials, but you have to respond to the media"

"Well, my response is this" I begin, sinking my hands into my pockets, "What happened to Vittoria was regretful, but it's clear now and it's even more pertinent that she requires help . . . and I, am not the person to give it to her . . . . I told her truth and I'll be damned if I take back what I said, I stand by it. Then again, her reaction is disturbing and selfish, and I refuse to pity her. . . . Thank you for informing me Mother, but there's nothing I can do and I won't get involved"

"I'm not asking you to get involved, son, but there was a time you and Vittoria were friends. All I'm asking is that you show her some compassion. Go talk to her, get her to come to her senses. She refuses to speak to her parents"

"And you think going to talk to her will make a difference? I didn't just break things off with her, Mother, we talked this over, more than once then we came to an understanding. I'm assuming that she supposed that I would have a relationship with my children without Ana. That couldn't happen, Mother, you know how I feel about Ana"

"I know," she nods, smiling politely to my wife.

"Vittoria needs help, and I hope she's getting that help. The most I'm willing to do is ensure that she receives the best care"

I turn to Ana's sympathetic eyes and she nods in agreement.

"I have to make a few calls, excuse me," I say, leaving Ana and my mother alone.

Ana

Two pairs of eyes follow my husband out of the room until he rounds the corner and disappears down the corridor. Awkwardness fills the room but Grace appears composed as she sits elegantly on the couch.

"Come, sit next to me, I won't bite," she gently pats the cushion.

I quickly glance into the empty corridor, expecting Christian to turn the corner. Bravely I take my place next to her, but I maintain my distance.

"Have you heard from Carla?"

"No" I reply confidently.

"Good, if she tries to reach out to you let me know immediately," she points to my face.

"What did you say to convince her to leave Seattle?"

"You think words convince her, Anastasia?"

"No," I reply thoughtfully, "But money would be the inducement for someone like her"

"Indeed," she concurred.

My eyes go wide, "You paid her to leave?"

"I would say that Anastasia, I simply gave her what is due to her, it wasn't a payoff"

"and she took it, just like that" I question.

"Yes, it was a hefty sum, I just gave her what she wanted without including you or my grandchildren. She won't bother you again, I promise, that is, if you wish to see her in the future"

I quickly shake my head, rejecting the idea, "No, I don't ever want to see her. She doesn't care about me or the children, all she cares about is my father's wealth and capturing it for herself"

"Well I don't think you have nothing to worry about, my dear, I'll see to it"

"Thank you," I say genuinely, "You have given me the perfect wedding present"

"You're welcome, Anastasia, as I've said before I will do anything to protect my family