Hi everyone.
Thank you for the fantastic response I've got for this story. It is truly motivating.
As always I own nothing, just having fun with the characters.
Ro – the hugest thanks to you for being so awsome.
Anastasia POV
Tuesday 14 May 2019
Looking back on the last few days since I've returned to Seattle, my life has been an absolute whirlwind. Dorothy in the land of Oz has nothing on me. I feel more like Alice going down the dark rabbit hole!
The much-needed Girl-Talk with Kate on Sunday night boosted my spirits a lot. So did the tub of ice cream. I can't believe we I ate the whole thing by myself. But Fuck was it good. Both the sweet treat and the chat went a long way to calm my rattled nerves after the Grey Family dinner fiasco. Kate was right about taking a step back on the Grace and Mia situation. It's Christian's family after all, so I'll let them deal with it.
As predicted Mia contacted me on Monday to confirm our plans for a spa day with her friends. I was really tempted to tell her to fuck off but common sense prevailed and decided to accept the invitation.
Kate and her fucking Olive Branches. Maybe Mia's regretting Sunday and it is her way to make amends. Unlikely, but possible.
I immediately called Kate to see if she could join me, but sadly she can't ditch work for a manicure on Tuesday. She assured me that everything would be fine and to not let Mia or her friends get to me.
Right; and pigs fly.
But she did say she'd be in attendance for this evening's event since she was covering the Opening Night at the gallery for The Seattle Times.
Well there'll be at least one person I know.
I've barely seen Christian. We had a short meeting Monday morning to compare schedules and confirm our public outings for the upcoming week, but outside of that, nothing.
The man is graciousness personified. He simply informed me yesterday that we would be attending a gallery opening, (for today), as our first outing as a couple; then on Saturday, we're going to the Coping Together Gala. According to him, if things turn out as he, sorry 'we' planned, Saturday will be the day of the grand and very public proposal.
Gail and Taylor are a Godsend. It's only through their conscientious efforts that made the move into the penthouse more comfortable. It's nice coming home to some friendly faces.
I was contemplating, as well, since I'm permanently back in Seattle, (with or without Christian), of getting myself a pet. For as long as I can remember, I've always wanted to adopt a black Maine Coon cat and name him Hippo, after Behemoth from 'Master and Margarita' by Bulgakov. I was never able to before, what with Dad's illness, then school. It never seemed to be the right time, but now, I think is the time if perfect. Not sure how Christian feels about me having a pet. I'll have to ask him if he's allergic, but if he isn't, then I'm going for it. I feel the need to have something of my own, and I want a fun, fluffy adorable snuggly cat.
Maybe I can train it to be a guard cat! It could piss and hiss at anyone who's nasty.
Thinking of sidekicks, my mind travels to, my own personal CPO named Sawyer, courtesy of one Christian Grey. Despite my protestations, and insistent 'what the fuck do I need close protection for?', Christian was adamant. I'm sure I would've agreed eventually, but I would've appreciated more advanced notice, than a 'oh, by the way; this is Sawyer'. I mean, I get it. It's the nature of the beast - Christian, being the beast, that is.
So, now I have my very own bodyguard following me around literally everywhere I go. Sawyer is totally easy on the eyes; the man looks like Sam Heughan, for Christ-sake, so yah, VERY easy on the eyes, but Taylor says I'd get used to it, still; it's weird. Just saying.
Yesterday I visited Steele Advertising offices and as predicted I was denied access to the servers and documentation on current projects. While I'm the owner of the company, Pierce is the CEO and without his approval I can't do anything. The asshole is still unavailable till the end of the month, and there's 31 days in this month, so that's about 2 ½ more weeks before I can discuss my concerns with the man.
Asshole. What the fuck is he doing for a month, and why can no one reach him? As CEO of a company this behaviour is the epitome of irresponsibility. FUCK!
As owner of said company, I'm sure there I should be a clause somewhere that would enable me to handle some aspects of the business before the bastard gets back. I've asked Carrick for some legal advice, but apparently this field of law is outside his level of experience. As my legal counsel, he asked for permission to share the paperwork with his father in law, Mr. Trevelyan. Back in his day, Theo was one of the best corporate lawyers out there, and if anyone can find a loophole, he'd be the man to do it. Until then I'll need to network and gather as much information on Pierce's dealings as possible.
God! Everything is happening so fast I'm running on autopilot. I'm lucky if I get a chance to piss and sleep let alone think about ME time. The spa outing, company notwithstanding, should be nice.
At least I hope I can get myself looking half respectable for tonight. God. I can't even remember the last time I had a mani-pedi done. And my hair! Horses look better than I do right now. I really need to get this mane cut. It's been what, a year ago since my last cut.
But before any of that, I've got a surprise meeting with Elliot today. He called me up yesterday asking if I'd be interested in doing a commercial project for Grey Construction. I told him about my spa day with his sister but could squeeze him in before meeting up with Mia and her friends.
Industrial photography is not my strongest suit, but I'm not about to turn away an opportunity. This meeting also gave me a valid reason not to go shopping with the girls. I hate shopping as it is but combine that with a bunch of strangers, whom I gather from Kate would be the equivalent of hanging out with the Kardashian's, is my personal idea of hell. I already have the perfect dress for tonight. I even got Kate's brand of approval after sending her a photo of it, so I'm confident of my choice.
However, this does not solve my current fashion dilemma. I'm standing, once again, in my closet, debating on what to wear. I need to look professional enough for a work meeting but not too stuffy to hang out with the ladies afterwards.
This right here is what I hate about fashion. I truly hate this! It's a bloody waste of time. Whilst in college, my wardrobe choices were easy; a pair of sneakers, T-shirt, jeans or a simple skirt depending on the occasion. My greatest dilemma was ensuring my clothes level of cleanliness. It's college. It happens. Don't judge me.
But now, looking upon my hung garments of trousers, skirts, dresses, jackets, blouses, I waste precious time picking out the perfect outfit and it's frustrating the hell out of me! I puff out a breath effectively moving my bangs from my forehead.
Ok. Let's think about this. If what Kate says about Mia's friends is true, then it'd be in my best interest to take a concerted effort in how I look. I just know I'll be scrutinised and apprised from head to toe.
Many outfits and possible pairings later, I finally settle on the tried and true classic of the ages. Adhering to the 'Keep it simple stupid' rule, I choose a white short-sleeve blouse, a red high waist midi skirt, paired with nude four-inch heels. A once over in the mirror and I get my sidekick, Sawyer, to drive me to Grey Construction. Since I'm being escorted and don't have to occupy my mind on traffic, I use the time to give myself a much-needed pep talk. Admittedly, it's a bit schizophrenic, but that seems to be my new norm lately.
I'm doing this, nerves be damned. I worked extremely hard for this moment and I know what I'm doing. I'm a qualified professional, and I won't let my age define how people see me. I'm more than capable of taking on significant projects like this, even though this is a bit out of my realm, but everyone has to start somewhere. I can do this! I will be confident and show the world what I'm made of! I'm driving myself nuts! Oh God.
I check that I have my portfolio and sketch books with me. I'm going over a few more ideas in my head adding it to the list of other possibilities depending on the scheme Elliot has in mind. We finally reach our destination and Sawyer helps me out of the car. I look down at my shaking hands and clench them tightly.
Oh Christ, I think I'm going to be sick. Just do it Ana! You were born for this. Do it for Dad!
I straighten myself out, and with a quick nod of thanks to Sawyer, I head inside Grey Construction.
Elliot POV
Tuesday 14 May 2019
I'm sitting in my office pouring over the final proposal to renovate some commercial properties on the waterfront. I dislike the days I'm be stuck here. Personally, I prefer to be on the site or behind the wheel of a bulldozer. I do trust my staff, but some projects are too important to leave them to others. I guess Christian is not the only control freak in the family when it comes to business. That thought makes me laugh.
Who would have thought my baby brother and I are more alike than I ever imagined? I never believed he was gay, but Christ his latest revelations shocked me, and I'm no daisy. I've been to the rodeo a few times and love some kink in my sex life as much as the next guy, but Christian's brand of BDSM is control on steroids.
He was careful with NDA's and keeping his partners secret from the world, but nothing is fool proof. The irony of the situation is not lost on me. He chose that lifestyle to avoid commitment and now he's getting married to save his reputation and his business.
Honestly, I feel a bit envious him. I'll soon be thirty and have only now come to understand that being the man whore of Seattle is not a favourable title. Having bedded half the blonds in the state of Washington, word gets around. Now any of the nice young women I meet won't take me seriously. If men have a biological clock, I've been feeling mine. I've been ready to settle down for a while now, but the girls running after me are usually emptyheaded status seekers, or worse; whore mongers looking for a sugar daddy come to mind. Ewh!
The real wakeup call happened a couple of months ago. I approached a girl in a bar and she simply laughed at me. She told me to move along because she had no interest in riding the 'town bike'. That was humbling. Up until that moment I was sure my good looks and a successful career could get me any girl. Turns out I was wrong.
I chuckle to myself. Maybe I should ask dad to handpick a suitable woman for me too, because Christian hit the Jack Pot with Anastasia. That girl is beautiful, intelligent, has direction with life goals and is not afraid to speak her mind. I don't know what happened Sunday with mom and Mia, but I promised dad and Gramps to make Ana feel welcome into the family, and I will try my best to do just that, hence my meeting her this morning.
I know I'm taking a great risk asking a newbie for the advertisement project on our new office buildings, but hey, she may surprise us all in the best way. Besides I'm in no rush so if she is not up to the task. I can always hire someone else.
I'm brought out of my musings by a commotion outside my office. I'm about to step outside when my lead architect, Aaron, barrels into the room looking all flushed.
What the fuck is going on? I've never seen the man look anything else than calm and collected.
''El! I don't know who it was you had to fuck up there'' he points his index finger skyward making me laugh out loud, ''But an Angel just descended on us and she's standing in the lobby saying she's here to meet with you"
Ah, yes, it must be Anastasia. She's punctual. Good. I like that.
Aaron is practically drooling, ''Please, please, please, tell me she is just a client and single'' he looks at me with such hope that I feel a little sorry to crush his little fantasy.
''Not a chance, buddy.'' I smirk at him "She's the marketing specialist I plan to hire for promoting our new office buildings.'' I then turn my serious stare on him driving the nail into his preverbal coffin. ''She's also Christian's girlfriend, so you better back off'' Aaron's jaw literally drops to the floor.
HA! This is hilarious!
''Fuck! Your brother in one lucky son of a bitch.'' He says defeated ''But hey, maybe Mr. Sunshine might just bore her to death'' making us both laugh as we head toward the lobby.
''Yah, right. Dream on, Aaron'' I pat his shoulder. Coming into the lobby I see a crowd of my crew forming around Ana. They're like a pack of wolves panting like dogs in heat.
Ana is really a stunning woman. She smiles politely as she declines offers for drinks, and it's evident she's getting uncomfortable by all the attention. She really has no idea how unique she is. I come up to greet her with a kiss on the cheek and lead her away from the group moving us toward my office. A take a backward glance and chuckle at the look of envy I get from my men.
She's taken boys, and if Christian doesn't come to his senses and recognize the beauty of this one, it'll be one of his worst mistakes.
''Make yourself comfortable Ana. Sorry about the guys. They're used to bulky men in hard hats. As you can tell, we don't have many pretty girls come around here often'' she blushes at the compliment.
Yep, Christian, you lucky bastard. God, I hope he plays his cards right and treats her nicely.
Ana smiles back at me and it's just dazzling.
''Good morning, Elliot" she says brightly "Yes, that was some greeting.'' she giggles '' Thanks for the rescue by the way. Also, thank you for this incredible opportunity. Just so you know, I unfortunately, need to cut our meeting short. I had made a previous commitment with your sister and her friends in a few hours. But this is such an interesting project, I didn't want to brush you off. I was thinking we could use this time to quickly go over key aspects on the matter so I can get a sense of your vision, and then schedule a follow up meeting where I can power point the various scenarios based on the information you give me this morning, does that sound ok?"
Oh fuck. Mia's friends are absolute bitches in heat. Fucking nasty, the lot of them! I love my baby sister, but she's been unbearable lately. Combine her PMS attitude with her bitter, spiteful and malicious girlfriends and it's a disaster waiting to happen. Poor Ana.
''Got it, and not a problem. Let's not waste time then. If you hand me your portfolio, I'll take a glance at it while I tell you what I have in mind'' she hands me her folder. The portfolio is a bit thin, but of what she does have it's impressive.
''I'll be honest with you Elliot, I don't have any experience in the industrial and commercial construction sector, but I do feel confident that I can apply what knowledge I have and tweak it to make it work with your vision. I think with my fresh perspective, I can offer you folks a different look that'll stand out over others in the industry.''
Her integrity impresses me more. I like her truthful approach and confidence. I'm intrigued see what she can come up with. It's exciting breaking in new ground, so to speak.
In the next hour I fill Ana in on my vision and she comes up with some great ideas. She says that the final sketches will be ready by next week. She will do her part for free, but Grey Construction will have to cover the costs for the crew and equipment once the project is in motion. She's a bit embarrassed with that last statement, but honestly, I wasn't looking for a free ride.
It's a brilliant business strategy if you think about it. She's the new kid on the block making a name for herself within Steele Advertising. She knows this project can boost her credibility, and if successful, it would entice other companies to seek her services. Ana offering her work as pro bono, knowing her inexperience in this industry, compensates more than fairly my portion of the project.
''Ana, you know didn't hire you for a handout. Grey Construction is more than capable in paying you for your work. You do know that, right?"
"Thank you, Elliot. I do know. I think of this as an investment rather than a handout. You, offering me this chance, is huge for me and for Steele Advertising, and I think you know that too. You're taking a huge chance with me, and I appreciate that."
Wow. Classy, noble, a hard worker and ethical. If my bro is smart enough I can picture some cute ginger haired nephews running around in the future.
Now, I'm even more impressed with my soon to be sister-in-law and feel a sense of pride knowing she'll soon be part of my family, maybe not long term, but family nonetheless. I can only hope with Ana more present her sense of self-worth would influence Mia.
"Ok Ana. You're the boss." She smiles again as she gathers her papers placing them back into her folder. We both rise and as she extends her hand to shake I, instead, pull her in for a big bear hug making her giggle.
She'll be the perfect little sister.
"See you tonight, Ana. I hope you're prepared for the media frenzy coming your way after the gallery opening tonight. It can get intense.''
She rolls her eyes.
''Yah. Don't remind me'' she huffs and shrugs her little shoulders ''It is what it is. I'll just have to develop thicker skin. I am excited to see the work of the artist though. I did a bit of research on him and from what I've seen his work is impressive."
Ana glances down at her watch quickly.
"Shit. Sorry, Elliot. I need to run but I'll see you this evening'' with a kiss on my cheek and a wave she's out the door.
Yep; tonight, will be interesting. I only hope Mia's harpies won't drown her in the pool at the spa.
Anastasia POV
The meeting went surprisingly well and I'm beyond happy with the concept Elliot and I came up with. I recognize Elliot's decision to hire Steele Advertising, specifically me, to promote Grey Construction's new project can be construed as nepotism, but I'm hoping after this meeting he feels more confident in hiring me.
I can tell he was apprehensive at first. I was forthright and honest in my lack of experience with the project content he's looking for, but I did have some ideas and the more we talked the more exited he got. Truthfully, I'm on a business success high and am enthusiastic to get started on some of the ideas that have been swirling inside my head since I left. I'm in such a good mood that not even the prospect of spending the afternoon with Mia and her squad can sour my mood.
Thanks to Sawyer we get to Esclava quickly, I glad that the trouble of finding a parking space is not my problem. Good luck to Mr. Bodyguard. I'm thankful I arrived before everybody else. This gives me some time to speak to the administrator and request all costs for today to be put on my card. I'm hoping this gesture will show Mia that I really appreciate her offer to include me in this outing.
Olive branches, right?
That settled, I make my way to the sitting area only to be roughly pushed aside as a tall brunette rush past me, almost knocking me over. I yelp out in surprise, taken aback by her rudeness, but my retort dies in my mouth as I see her slightly dishevelled and overall distressed appearance.
Oh dear. I wonder what her story is, poor thing. Must be a guy. Only a man can make a girl Look tragic like that.
I let it go. She must be having one of those days when you wish you never got out of bed.
The interior of Esclava screams luxury. Everything, from the furniture to the bleach blond attendants, is sleek and modern and so very white. Truthfully speaking the only colour in here is the heavily painted faces of the staff.
Interesting. This salon has the same interior design as Christian's penthouse. I guess it makes sense as he is a partner. They probably used the same interior designer.
I'm about to text Mia letting her know I've already arrived, when I hear a group of women laughing and spot Mia among them. They're an impressive bunch as they walk through the salon doors. There are four of them, all dressed to the nines with perfect hairdo's and make up, which makes me wonder why they bothered making a salon appointment.
I recognize my insecurity for what it is and am glad to have taken an hour of my morning to get ready. These women are polished and fit for the runway unlike the rest of us sorry sods sitting in this salon.
I truly do feel like Lindsay Lohan trying to impress the Mean Girls in high school. Maybe they're only getting mani-pedi's. Christ this is so juvenile.
When Mia sees me, she speaks to her friends and points their attention in my direction and they immediately turn their scrutinizing gaze on me.
Good grief!
''Hello, Mia. Thank you for inviting me today'' Mia gives me air kisses in greeting. ''No problem'' with that I receive the fakest smile in history.
''These are my friends. This is Lilian, Amanda and Jenna'' she points out each of the girls.
''Ladies, this is Anastasia, Christian's girlfriend''
When they hear 'girlfriend' all three drop their jaws and gape at me. The scene is quite comical, and I hold myself back from laughing. I smile broadly and extend my hand in greeting.
''Pleasure to meet you all'' breaking the awkward silence.
''Yes, a pleasure." One of them says. She sounds more annoyed than pleased. Jenna, I think her name is, gives Mia the stink eye and says with a whine, "Mia, you didn't mention Christian had a woman in his life. We were all sure he was gay.'' Now they're all fake giggling matching their fake smiles.
Why Mia didn't tell her friends I was coming tagging along today, or that I was Christian's girlfriend seemed odd. I thought she'd inform them while they shopped this morning. I get the strange suspicion like this is a setup, and I'm not sure why, but I'll play along.
''Oh. I just came back to Seattle last week, and finally met Mia and the rest of his family for the first time this past Sunday'' I explain.
The girls all look toward Mia with a 'oh really' look. The inquiry for further explanation is thankfully cut off as the receptionist comes up to usher us to the changing rooms.
I opt for a manicure and pedicure as well as book a beautician to do my hair and makeup for the event tonight. Mia and Amanda choose massages, so I'm left with Jenna and Lillian who sit on either side of me for pedicures. Lucky me!
Settling ourselves into our chairs, I prepare myself for the interrogation I know will ensue.
''So, Anastasia, tell us a bit about yourself. Where are you from? How did you meet Christian? How long have you two been together?''
I'm looking down at the remote control that activates the massage chair settings while I soak my feet in the small tub below. I look up to see Jenna looking at me expectantly. It's painfully obvious they don't give a shit about me. Their interest rests solely on Christian Grey. If only they knew the guy behind the beautiful facade, I'm sure they wouldn't be so fascinated with him. Or maybe they would, what do I know?
''I'm originally from Seattle but lived in Britain for the last five years. I met Christian at a coffee shop in London a few months ago; back in March actually, and we decided since I was considering coming back to the US anyway, I would settle near him in Seattle" I smile.
If they think that I'm going tell them more than that, they're sorely mistaken. I settle further into my chair, closing my eyes leaning into the glorious massage mechanism currently working on my lower back, effectively blocking out their stares and ignoring their obvious expectation that I would disclose more about myself, or Christian, or both. When they see I'm not taking the bait Lilian makes this snorting sound. It's not a cute or flattering sound. It almost sounded like she's sick and trying to clear her sinuses. I gag slightly at the thought. Ok, breathe Ana, in...out.
Lilian's high pitched, annoying nasal voice comes from my left, ''so a brief meeting overseas and here you are. How romantic''
Goading me won't work dimtit!
Under my father's tutelage, I've grown up around many bitch brat divas, so their attitude doesn't really faze me. I smirk remembering my father's lesson to 'kill them with kindness'.
"Don't ever stoop to their level Ana," he'd tell me, "you don't know where these women came from and you don't know their story, and they all have a past; a story, so it's not for you to judge. It is your responsibility to always be respectful. Always be the light when you're surrounded by their darkness. Do not let their choices become your choice."
''It was very romantic'' I comment and beam at Lillian ''Have you all been friends for a long time?'' I try to steer the conversation away from Christian and myself.
''Pretty much. Mia and I have been friends since kindergarten, and Jenna and Amanda joined our group in middle school'' Lilian says and again we fall into an awkward silence. I nod back in acknowledgement, not really knowing what to say further.
I wonder if this chair has a lean back option. Ideally, I'd prefer one of those dome-covered napping pods that I've seen at Google headquarters, but I could settle for a lean back option. I wonder if anyone ever got accidentally electrocuted in one of these chairs before. No. Don't think like that Ana, that's mean.
Luckily the nail technician distracts me with the question about which design I prefer. As usual I opt for a French design for both manicure and pedicure.
''Oh, how boring! Are you sure you want to stick with just that?'' Jenna inserts herself in my conversation with the technician. I really don't remember that I asked for her opinion, but I bite my tongue. Literally. At this pace, I'm going to develop serious canker sores for every time I bite my tongue. I turn to Jenna with a depreciating smile.
''It's a classic design and compliments many styles. Depending on my accessories, I can dress my hands up with diamond or crystal rings for formal occasions or down with fun bolder designs and stones. I don't have much free time to consider what polish compliments what outfit daily, so I go with what works. Shellac guarantees the lifespan of my manicure as my nails lengthens. I won't need to come back for another three weeks or so. It works well."
''Yah. Well, I'm going to live a little. After all you're only young once so I'm going for something trendy and edgy. I'm wearing red tonight, so make sure the colour works.'' She tells the girl who is working on her toes.
If this was a veiled attempt to insult me, it failed. I give her a thumbs up and a broad smile and for the rest of the procedure, I tune them both out. All I hear is the 'mwah, mwah, mwah' of their voices as they chat over me. The sound is reminiscent of the teacher in Charles Schulz Charlie Brown's Peanuts cartoon.
Once my nails are done, I thank the technicians who've done an excellent job on my fingers and toenails' but as I stand up to go for my hair appointment, Jenna asks me a question that catches me off guard.
''Anastasia, I'm hoping you can put to rest an ongoing dispute between us girls. You see, we've known each other for years, and we've always wondered, each of us having our differing opinions, of course, what Christian would be like in the sac. Maybe you can settle our curiosity? Is he any good? Does he give it hard and fast? Does he make any sounds? Amanda and Lillian think he'd be all romantic, but I think he's the type that would go for the kill, kind of cat like, right?'' she looks straight at me with a slight smirk. I glance over to Lillian and she's sporting the same self-satisfied look.
Sweet Jesus, how old are these women? I get that they're shallow and narcissistic, but that's just plain offensive, base and rude.
I carefully and slowly put my feet into the slip-on flip flops I brought along with me and turn to stare at Jenna in exasperation. I look at her for a long time, considering my next comment, making her jiggle in her seat a bit.
''Jenna. I'm not sure how you discern and process the level of intimacy from conversations, or in this case, lack thereof, with your 'friends' however, our sitting together for an hour does not qualify us as besties. Posing that line of questioning speaks more to me of your character and confirms your lack of respect, not only of your partners but more tragically yourself."
I sigh in resignation and although I maintain my civility, I refuse to be amicable with all this bullshit.
If this is how Mia and her clique circle of harpies want to play, I'm leaving the fucking sandbox. Tupogolovõje ssuchki! Sometimes swearing in Russian feels so much better. Saying 'empty headed bitches' in English just doesn't cut it.
"I'm afraid, Jenna, you and the girls will have to keep wondering. I'm not in the habit of discussing mine, or anyone else's, private affairs, most especially the brother of your best friend.''
I turn to leave without looking back.
I go to the front desk to see if the beautician is available now because as soon as I get my haircut, I'm getting the fuck out of here.
I notice Mia and Amanda walk out of the massage rooms oozing an aura of relaxation and peacefulness.
Oh, I need one of those. Note to self: Make an appointment for Kate and myself for a relaxing massage, but not here. If this is where Barbie and friends hang, I'll pass.
Mia graces me with one of her fake smiles, again, but I really don't give a flying fuck. If I could give her the bird using facial expressions, I'd give her one of those.
''I see that you're already done with your manicure, that's great. I'll join you for my haircut so we can chat a bit.'' She informs me.
Oh Joy! I get to spend time with the Xanthippe ringleader all for myself. Ugh, fuck me! I wonder if she'll pickup on my lack lustre of enthusiasm.
''Oh my god Mia! What a great idea." I sparkle and flutter my eyes sarcastically, and gently smack her arm as I move in the direction of Franco, the Italian hair guru, "I'll see you in a few then'' wink. Air kiss.
Fucking ridiculous.
A million expletives in several languages come to mind as I take my seat in front of the mirror. That's when I notice Mrs. Lincoln having a heated discussion with the tall brunette woman who pushed past me earlier. They both look stressed, and the discussion seems rather unpleasant but my attention is diverted when Franco steps into my line of sight.
''Salute Bella Anastasia. Guardati e questa splendida criniere di bei capelli!" (Hello beautiful Anastasia. Look at you and this gorgeous mane of beautiful hair!) He rakes his fingers through my locks, combing and caressing it over and over. ''Look how lovely. It's so beautifully long, shiny and soft like the finest silk'' he exclaims excitedly.
His exuberance is endearing, and I love him instantly.
Okay. So maybe this place isn't complete shit, but I hope Franco would agree to home visits because I'm not coming back to this den of vipers.
''Will you also be attending the Gallery opening this evening? The unveiling of Beauty and The Beast, yes?''
Franco waves his hands and dramatically unfurls the salon apron like a magician revealing their trick, spreading it over my chest and tying the neck strings striking a ta-da pose. This guy is hilarious! What a treat. I'm not the least bit surprised that he knows about me and Christian being a couple. Word travels fast, especially in a salon.
Hairdressers are like priests for women. Every week the confessional chair is filled with women offloading all their shit, and hairdressers like Franco here, listen with one ear while with hands and scissors, they create art with your hair. It's not a spiritual absolution, but there are similarities. Everyone leaves the salon with less weight on their shoulders.
''Franco, I can only hope that I'm not The Beast in the scenario that is running through your mind.'' I giggle. He then bends down to whisper in my ear.
''Honey, I'm gay and your Grey is all sorts of hot, hot, hot, but you'' he starts fanning himself with his hand pretending to swoon. "I could do the horizontal cha-cha with you'' after this we both burst with laughter. "Don't tell me you don't Beast up on that man! That's just sinful."
This guy is seriously wonderful! He's got a warm personality and a great sense of humour. I do see us becoming friends.
Oh God it feels good to laugh.
''Franko, you're impossible'' it is all I'm able to get out through my laughter.
''Seriously honey. You are a Goddess, and when I'm finished working on you, you will understand the extent of your power. Blinding honey, just blinding!'' and his hands makes these fireworks explosions signs. Lord, if he keeps this up, I won't be able to stop laughing.
It seems our little laugh-fest brought unwanted attention as the duo of Malevolence shows up in the form of Mia and Mrs. Lincoln. Behind them is the dishevelled brunette.
And just like that, the party's over. It was just too good to be true.
''Anastasia, it is lovely to see you again. I hope the experience you had here was pleasurable.''
It was until you showed up. Fuck, her voice is irritating and the way she looks me over makes me feel dirty.
''Indeed. I'm impressed with those who've worked on me so far. You have a talented and professional team Mrs. Lincoln. I'm looking forward to the creation Franco is inspired with for my hair'' I give a wink in his direction which he returns with a smile.
That's you your cue Ladies. Just go and crawl back to the hole you came from.
''I'm sorry to disturb you, but since Franco hasn't started on you yet would you be ok if we pushed your appointment back.''
Ah fuck. Seriously? It's like I inadvertently pissed on the Universe's cereal and its payback time! I'm convinced that I'm cursed. I can't believe the bitch is totally bumping me!
''Susannah here is in a huge time crunch and she needs to look her best for an important working function in a few hours. Would you be a dear and help a girl out?"
Her saccharine tone is making me ill. When I look around, I can see that all the other stylists are busy. Then I chance a glance to the woman in question and it's evident she has the greater need, so I take pity on her. I decide I can do my own hair and makeup for tonight.
''Sure. I don't mind.'' I see Franco is about to object but I don't give him the opportunity
''Franco. I promise I will not go to anyone else for my hair. I'll make an appointment with you for later in the week.'' With that I quickly vacate the chair for Susannah, and taking off the apron, I hand it to him giving him a quick hug and a wink.
I bid my goodbyes to the girls, because now I need to rush home and get myself ready for the showing. Mrs. Lincoln had followed me to the front desk so she's the last hurdle I need to jump over to get the hell out of here.
''Thank you again, Anastasia. You're a real sweetheart for doing this.'' That fake smile again ''Please tell Christian I wish him luck with his new challenge.'' And with that she disappears around the corner sporting a sinister smile.
What the hell was that about?
I'm standing still with a pen in my hand as my brain processes what she just said.
Oh, fuck no! No, no, no! Did that mindless piece of shit disclose to Godzilla our arrangement? Why the fuck would he do that? Why didn't he mention anything when we were all discussing it back at his Dad's office? I was honest and told them I was telling Kate, why wouldn't he mention he'd be sharing with Mrs Lincoln as well? What the fuck is Christian doing? I swear to God, if that ass-wipe told her my reasons for agreeing into this arrangement, I'll bring that fucker down.
I sign the bill with a generous tip and mumble under my breath, "I'll fucking kill him".
I'm not sure when I will be posting next with the holydays just around the corner, but I do hope to prewrite and edit some material
Merry Christmas and best wishes for the new year!
Ilenka