Hello everyone. I know it has been awhile but with all the holydays I got distracted with real life, sorry. Hope you will enjoy this chapter and if you are interested in Ana's dress link to a pinterest page for this story is posted in bio.
Christian POV
Tuesday 14 May 2019
Two days. It's been two bloody days since Anastasia moved into Escala and I've successfully managed to avoid her. And let me tell you, that in itself is an incredible feat of self-restraint.
Two days ago, I introduced her to Sawyer, her CPO and went over our agenda for public outings, but since then, I've been avoiding the woman like the plague. Anastasia seems to be of a similar mind, although I'm not sure she's conscientiously trying to avoid me as I am her. I'm guessing her lack of seeking me out is more a reflection of her independent nature and lack of interest in me than anything else.
Case in point, the woman almost gave me a heart attack yesterday when she ventured out of her bedroom in the sexiest nightwear I've ever seen. I was in my office, after calling it a night, I had just flicked off the lights and was about to head to my room when I saw her. Thankfully she didn't see me as I stood frozen by my office door drooling over her. Sweet Jesus, the woman is a work of art, frankly she puts Venus to shame. Seeing her in a sheer silk nighty gave me an erection that refused to go away. No will of mind; no martial art meditative Jedi force trick or fucking cold shower could placate my hard rock cock. So, for the first time, in a long time, I embarrassingly had to rub one out. And just like my horny fourteen year-old self , (the horny teenager that I was), I imagined her pouty pink lips wrapped deliciously around my dick whilst I jerked off in the shower.
So, yah. If I don't want to grow blisters on my right hand, or my dick for that matter, from excessive masturbating to visions of Ana's fine form, I keep my distance. For the most part, I've been quite successful and feel secure in the knowledge that I'm in control of myself. Then again, it's been 2 fucking days.
Only 363 more to go! Jesus Christ.
Elena has been blowing up my phone with calls and messages since Sunday night, all of which I left unanswered. I'm simply too angry with her to act rationally. To bide some time, I send her an email arranging to meet up for lunch Thursday in the hope she'll leave me be until then. I don't need her distractions from my current dilemma; Mom and Mia.
It's important to me that they be supportive in my relationship with Anastasia, and I'm truly stumped with how things went down on Sunday. I am equally stumped to how I'm to address my relationship with Ana to them. Anastasia sent me a message yesterday that she'd be joining Mia and her friends for a spa day, so perhaps this outing will smooth things over with my baby sister. Dad is meeting me for lunch today, and I'm eager for his insight on how to handle this quandary.
The only bright thing that happened, since this whole fiasco began, is the shipyard in Japan. Ros was able to arrange a meeting and we're scheduled to travel to Osaka in a month. As I expect to be married by that time, I have little doubt that by July GEH, will be owners of a Japanese shipyard.
I've buried myself in work trying to do as much as possible before dad shows up. I have a feeling that this meeting will last a lot longer than an hour. The impression I got from Dad when he asked for a meeting was that he has a few items to discuss, not just the issue with Mom and Mia.
''Mr. Grey, your brother is here to see you.'' Andrea announces over the intercom.
Oh fuck…
I love my brother. Don't get me wrong, but I'm getting that tingling spider sense, and I can almost predict my brother's purpose for coming today. More likely than not, he wants to rub something into me, probably tease me more about my upcoming marriage, or some such bullshit. I really can't deal with his shenanigans right now, but he's my brother and there is no way shake him off if he wants to see me.
''Let him in and please hold all my calls, Andrea.'' I say with an exasperated sigh.
''YO, bro!'' Elliot jovial calls as he saunters into my office. I'm mildly shocked to see him looking quite dapper dressed in a suit. Elliot's typical dress code consists of muddy boots and ripped jeans, so this polished GQ look is an unexpected surprise.
''Well, look at you in your big boy pants!'' I grin '' But you shouldn't go to all that trouble just for me EL. I love you just the way you are. Hell, I didn't even know you owned a suit!'' I stand up and we fist bump whilst giving him a once over. I know for a fact he hates to dress up and will do anything to avoid it.
''Fuck off, Christian. You know you're just jealous cause I look this good." He sticks his foot out striking one of those ridiculous model poses, spins around to show me his ass making me chuckle. I have to admit, he rocks the suit. Mom and grandma would be in seventh heaven if he would dress like that more often, but knowing Elliot that is not happening.
"I had a couple of business meetings this morning. One of which, you'd be interested to know, was with the delectable Ms. Steele.'' He wiggles his brows ''When I'm inclined I, too, can do justice to a Tom Ford.'' That sets us off laughing. Good God, he is such a ham. My laughter dies when what he says registers.
Back the fuck up. Did he just say he was meeting Anastasia? What the fuck for?
Elliot must have noticed my less than pleased expression and spills the beans before I even ask.
''Relax bro and quit scowling. It's bad for your complexion or some stupid shit Mia keeps going on about. Whatever; I wasn't putting any moves on your little lady. I have this project coming up for a few buildings and thought to do a promo on it. You know even better than me how it goes, a few commercial ads, posters, that sort of thing. Steele Advertising seemed the logical choice, so I decided to see what she could offer.'' Well fuck me sideways. I didn't expect that one. Those buildings are a huge project for Grey Construction, and I didn't think Elliot would choose a newbie to do the advertising.
''So, how did the meeting go?''
'Surprising. Your woman knows her shit. At first, I offered her the meeting just to make her feel welcome to the family, y'know nepotism at its best. I didn't think anything would come out of it.'' He smiles sheepishly '' But fuck, Ana is simply brilliant. Her ideas were fresh and her vision logical. It shocked the shit out of me, but you can bet your fortune I'm hiring her for the job.''
Holy fucking hell, this is surprising. Yeah, I knew the girl was smart, but I seemed to have underestimated her business capabilities. I didn't think she had the know-how or where-with-all to handle this kind of account. I had assumed she'd be like running around with a camera shooting landscapes and puppies, not landing a big fish like Grey Construction. Elliot may act like an idiot most of the time, but when it comes to Grey Construction, this is his baby, and he won't fuck around.
''Good for you and Anastasia.'' I say admiringly.
''Right?! I've got a really good feeling about this collaboration.'' Suddenly he turns serious ''Look. I know that you are not happy with this arranged marriage thing, but honestly, I feel a bit jealous of you.'' I snort '' I get that being forced to do anything goes against your grain, but you got the best out of a very shitty situation.'' He is shitting me right now, right? I just roll my eyes at him. He would be singing a totally different tune if he was in my shoes.
''No seriously Christian. I've been thinking for a while now about starting a family.'' At this I laugh out loud.
''Oh please." I say sarcastically. "The professed Gods-Gift-to-Women wants to chain himself to one pussy. Monogamy Elliot. Sell that bullshit to someone else. Your dick would fall off from lack of use.'' I'm chuckling hard, but Elliott doesn't even crack a smile. He looks offended.
''Very funny, asshole. I'm being honest here. I'll be thirty in October and having a revolving door of dumb blondes is starting to get old. I want to come home to someone waiting for me. To have meaningful conversations, or just shoot the shit; share hobbies. Do things couples do. I want something more than just a quick fuck.''
Holy shit. What's gotten into him? He must be getting soft in his old age.
''Christ Christian! Stop looking at me like I'm a fucking freak. I get it. Yes, this manwhore is putting up is whoring hat and growing up. I'm bored with the bimbos, but tell me honestly, aren't you sick of the same shit? In your case your girls like kink, but from what you've told me, you never interact with them outside of that dungeon, or playroom or whatever. If your contracts are truly how you describe them to be, then you may as well buy yourself a pricy sex robot. You won't know the difference.'' What in the fuck is he spewing here? Why on Earth would I use a sex doll when there's a line of willing bodies for my dark tastes. Sure, the last few subs had a screw loose, and I'm dealing with the consequences, but my playroom time is anything but boring.
''El, please don't project your inner struggles on me. Before Leila my life was perfect. I was having great sex with no commitment or emotional headaches. I got what I wanted and went on with my life. All this love and attachment shit will only make you weak and foolish.'' Love is for fools.
''God, where did you dig up that shit. When you look at mom and dad or grandma and gramps, don't you wish to have something similar in your life?''
''Ah, no. Sure I'm happy for them, whatever floats their boat. But that shit is not for me.''
''You're an idiot. You've been handed the perfect woman on a silver platter and if you play your cards right you may run off into the sunset with a Goddess no less.''
I just looked at my brother speechless. Ok. He's certifiable now. I was just about to give him my two cents when Andrea announced that my dad was here.
Fucking perfect.
Carrick POV
Tuesday 14 May 2019
I haven't seen much of Grace and Mia since my Sunday rant, but I hope they took what I had to say seriously. Christian cannot afford to lose Anastasia, and the way Grace and Mia are treating her, my fear is she will just say, 'fuck it' and handle her own affairs. And I wouldn't even fault the girl, she didn't deserve such treatment. But Christ, if it comes to that, Christian will be completely fucked.
To be on the safe side, I ensured some time with Christian today to go over my concerns; not just about Ana and his relationship, but I need to find out what his deal is with Elena and address my plan for Mia.
For Ana, I want to make sure she is comfortably settled in Christians home and that they are both prepared for their first public outing tonight. This first appearance is going to be vitally important to Christian's image. It would be the solid groundwork to any backlash should Leila Williams act out on her threats.
Secondly, Elena fucking Lincoln. I have no idea what Christian's game is with her, but my instincts tell me there is a lot more to his relations with her than simply business. Who the fuck requests a private meeting while in someone else's home during a private dinner party? What is so fucking urgent that it couldn't wait until Monday? It's a bloody beauty salon, so why all the cloak and dagger? And then the brief discussion turns into an hour-long meeting. Yah, no. I'm not buying it. There's 'something rotten in the state of Denmark' and if my guess is correct, Elena is my mark. Although I would never dictate who my wife befriends, I won't tolerate Elena's poisonous manipulation in my house any longer. That shit ends now. Grace may continue to meet Elena Lincoln but it won't be in our house from now on.
I think the hardest subject of all will be Mia. Fuck I wish Theo was available today. I need all the support I can get when I broach this subject with Christian. He and Mia are tight, but I don't think he realizes the dangers in spoiling her.
Fuck I've got my work cut out for me.
I'm brought out of my musing when the eve-efficient Andrea leads me to Christian's office and to my surprise Elliot is there.
Perfect! I can kill two birds with one stone.
''Good afternoon boys. Good to see you.'' I shake their hands and give Elliot a hug before taking a seat in front of Christian's desk beside Elliot.
''Elliot you're free to go. Nothing we are about to discuss concerns you.'' Christian gives his brother that famous glare, not that it has any effect on the guy.
Elliot leans back in his chair, crossing his arms over his chest and raises an eyebrow in challenge.
''Oh, I beg to differ little brother. Since mom and dad brought you home, everything about you is my concern. Mind you, I was hoping for a dog, but I've learned to work with what was given to me.'' He smirks.
I'm waiting for Christian to blow, but to my astonishment he starts laughing...hard.
''You would trade me for a dog! El, I'm wounded'' he puts a hand to his chest for a more dramatic effect.
This jovial banter between the two reminds me of a time in their early teens. I've missed this and hope to see more of this carefree and open side of Christian. He is not even twenty-seven yet but most of the time, he acts more like a man Theo's age. Unfortunately, I need their attention because time is pressing, and I have a lot to go over.
''Ok boys. It's actually a good thing you are here Elliot because I have a few things you need to hear as well. First, Christian, how are you adjusting to your new living arrangements?'' I give him a pointed look.
Yah kiddo. You know what I mean.
''All good dad. No worries there. I've been a very good boy'' He smirks.
''Good. Anastasia doesn't need to deal with your temper tantrums on top of everything else. Now about the gallery opening, is everything in order? Did your PR people prepare a statement?''
''Yes, everything is ready." It's evident that he is irritated with putting his private life on display, but when you make stupid decisions, be ready to deal with the consequences.
''Excellent." I pause a bit to be sure I have his attention, then look him dead in the eye, "I have a bit of a concern, which I wanted to ask you about. I would normally hold back, considering your brother being here, but since he's privy to what's been happening lately, I think Elliot being here might be a good thing." Christian is looking at me quizzically, but he remains silent waiting for me to continue. And so, I do.
"What's going on with you and Elena Lincoln?" And there it is. It's the tell-tale sign that confirms my instincts were correct. Christian's perfected his poker face, and considering his business success, it works on those who don't know him, but it doesn't work on me. I know my son well and I've come to learn a few signs which betray his well-hidden thoughts, not that I'd ever tell him that. The truth is always in his eyes. In mentioning Elena, Christians pupils dilated slightly, and that tells me all I need to know.
"Please save me the bullshit of how she's a 'family friend' and 'we run a business together'. Consider your audience Christian. We all have our own businesses, so we know what running a business entail. Never would I ever take the time away from my family, in my own home no less, for a brief business meeting." Come on son, don't make it harder that this needs to be.
''There's nothing untoward between Mrs. Lincoln and I, dad. It's just business. Don't try to find something that is simply not there.'' He shrugs with his poker face in place, but again, his eyes are telling me something else. In an instant I make the decision to back off on him for now, but I will find out why this hag is so obsessed with my son. With one last look at Christian, I let him know I'm not buying it, but won't pursue further.
''Very well, then I trust that you have not discussed the arrangement between Anastasia and yourself, correct?" Christian gives me a quick nod. Too quick.
"Elena is your mother's friend, but I'm fed up with that woman being a participant in all things Grey. She needs to keep her nose and opinions out of our business. I'll ensure to let your mother know as well, but Elena will no longer be allowed in my home. So, if you have business with her Christian, do it on your own time in your own space, not during family functions. Elliot this includes you too. When you do the renovations for her salon, don't discuss anything outside of business. Do you boys understand me?''
"You're talking to the choir here Dad. I never liked the woman, so avoiding her won't be a problem.'' Elliot lifts his hands in surrender. I turn back to Christian to see what he has to say, waiting for his confirmation.
''I have no problem with your request, but mom will be an issue.'' As lack lustre as Christians response is, because I'm convinced Christian is holding back on me, I don't have the time to get into it further. I think I'm going to need Theo's input if my theories regarding Christian and Elena are correct.
Resigning myself to move onward, I bring up the next topic of contention.
''Your mother is my business; you keep your focus on Ana. You know as well as I do how important Ana is in all this Christian. Yes, she's got her own agenda, but remember; she doesn't need you to achieve her goals." Christian may believe he's gods gift to pussy, but with Anastasia, he's met his match.
"I know you both have to leave soon to get ready for tonight, but I have one more thing to discuss with both of you before I leave; Your sister."
''What about her? If you're bringing up last Sunday, Ana and I talked it over and she texted me that her, Mia and some of Mia's friends would be getting together at Esclava to prepare for tonight. I take that as a positive sign that Mia is making the effort to acquaint herself with Ana. I think they just need to spend more time with each other, get to know each other better, before they become friends.''
I don't understand how this brilliant kid can be so blind when it comes to his baby sister.
''How much time have you actually spent with Mia lately Christian? How well do you think you know her since she's been back from Paris? I may not have been sitting in that car with you and Ana after dinner on Sunday, but I'll bet my balls she didn't keep her tongue in her pocket. Something went down after dinner, and I know it had something to do with your mother and Mia. I don't have time to go over all of that right now, but what has come blatantly clear to me is Mia's lack of respect and her increasing entitled attitude. She's not the same girl who left us two years ago. Since she's been back from Paris her behaviour and attitude seems to be getting worse. She...'' I'm not able to finish when Christian interrupts me.
''Bullshit! Mia is very young, and she just finished her studies, so cut her some slack. I don't see a problem if she wants to relax and enjoy life a little.''
''Actually Christian," Elliot fires back at his brother. "I'm with dad on this one. Mia's not a little girl anymore. She's twenty-three and it's time for you to take off those rose-tinted glasses and see the monster our sweet baby sister is becoming.''
Well knock me down with a feather! I thought I'd have to battle them both regarding Mia, but Elliot being on board is a nice turn of events.
''She's been home for a year, and since then what has she accomplished? Shopping, sleeping all day and partying all night. These are not the behaviours of a woman dedicated to her future. Mom and dad spent a small fortune on her education. Culinary School in New York, which she dropped after three months; then she wanted to become an actress, and I don't have to remind you how that turned out.'' Christian pinches the bridge of his nose.
Yah, we all remember when Mia and Jenna went to LA for a 'casting' but decided it was more fun to party hard; so hard in fact, that I had to bail them out for indecent behaviour. I shiver at the memory.
''I thought she got her act together when she went to that Fashion School, but she's just gotten worse. She's rude, lazy, and has zero ambition in life. Sure, we are all guilty in spoiling her rotten, but you baby bro, spoiled her the most. She will always be the princess in our family, but hell, for the last few years she's not that bubbly, fun girl anymore. Reality is Mia has become an entitled brat and fuck, I really want the lovely sister I remember back.''
Wow. Elliot is a lot more perceptive than I give him credit for. Clearly, I'm underestimating him. His usual laid back attitude sure can fool you.
''Thank you, Elliot. I don't think I could have expressed that better myself. I wanted to let you boys know that I'm going to have a serious conversation with your sister. She needs to start taking an active role in her life and be responsible for her actions. In this I will need both of your support. My efforts will be fruitless if she runs back to one of you to solve her problems.'' Elliott nods eagerly but I see that Christian is still not completely convinced that Mia is a problem.
''I have already talked with your grandfather and he agrees with me. You need to cancel the credit cards you've issued her Christian. She needs to learn how to budget and start using the education she's been given for her own future. I won't cut her off completely, but it's important for her to find a job and take responsibility for herself."
Christian is staring at me for a while before he says, "I understand Dad, but I won't hesitate to support Mia if she comes to me looking for a job.'' Christian finally agrees.
''Won't argue with that, Christian. A job is one thing; a hand-out is another. Just remember not to succumb to that puppy dog look when she comes crying on your shoulder.''
I'm getting myself ready to leave Christian's office when I remember I had one last thing to mention.
''Oh, and Christian. Saturday is fast approaching, and your future bride needs a proper ring. I strongly suggest you get to it. That's the first thing the paparazzi are going to look for when they take pictures of you two once your engagement is announced''
I'm chuckling at Christian's expression as I make my way out of his office.
You forgot about that part didn't you son?
Christian POV
Tuesday 14 May 2019
I suspect the expression on my face is what has Elliot is doubled over laughing his ass off.
''Shut it, Elliot. Fuck! Can this day get any shittier? I totally forgot about the fucking ring. Anastasia never brought it up; of course, why would she. I'm sure she doesn't even care." I'm bantering to myself while my brother just watches me pacing getting myself all worked up.
"Where the fuck do I go for an engagement ring?" I growl at my brother.
''Tiffany & Co."
I look over at my brother in shocked silence. How the fuck does Elliot know where to go for an engagement ring?
"It's apparently the place to go to get your little lady a rock for her finger.''
Usually I would tell him to fuck off but fuck me if it's not a brilliant idea. One stop shop. And since he knows about this shit, I'm bringing him with me.
''Let me tell Andrea to clear my schedule for the day and we can go. We may drop by your place to get your suit for tonight so we can go together to that fucking gallery later.''
I think I shocked the hell from both of us. Never in a million years would I ever think I would do this with Elliot. Well, come to think of it, I never thought I'd ever be looking for an engagement ring period.
''You want me to come with? Cool! I'm in. I want to see what kind of dent Ana's ring is going to make on your bottom line. Do you even have a bottom line?"
"Only one way to find out bro!" And we both chuckle our way out of my office.
Back at Escala, Elliot and I are relaxing with a couple of beers. Ring shopping went well. After looking at the various selections, I finally decided on a five-carat princess cut Tiffany ring. Elliot's reaction still makes me laugh; first he was shocked by the size of the rock calling it an alien beacon and then he was rendered speechless when the jeweller announced the price. Yep, I did drop a million bucks, but hey, I need to live up to people's expectations and who am I to disappoint the masses.
''I still can't believe that you spent that much money on a ring for a fake bride. I can only imagine the size of the rock you'd get for a real fiancé.'' He laughs.
Fuck if that'll ever happen. I agree. It was a ridiculous amount of money for a ring, but I'm not planning on getting married for real, and after this charade is over, everyone can just back the fuck off on the subject.
''I've got an image to protect. It wouldn't be believable if I got my fiancé anything less than ostentatious.''
Just as I'm about to ask Elliot about the project he hired Anastasia for, the woman in question storms in the living room looking furious.
Oh, shit shit shit, this doesn't look good at all!
Mia texted me about half an hour ago that Anastasia was a total bitch to her friends and then she just left without any reason. If Hell hath no fury like a woman's scorn, then I must be standing at Dante's ninth gate.
When Anastasia notices Elliot in the room her features soften, giving him a warm smile.
''Oh, hi Elliot. I didn't expect to see you here.''
''Hey Ana. I hope I'm not intruding, but since I'm riding solo for tonight's event, Christian suggested I tag along with the two of you. I hate attending shit like this and I didn't want to be the pathetic one arriving alone.'' He gives her a wink making her giggle. God, she has a magical laugh.
When she turns her attention to me, she's stopped laughing.
''Christian."
"Anastasia"
And the staring game begins.
Honey if you have an issue, I suggest you come out with it because I have no idea what this stare down is about.
"I had assumed you to be a man of your word when you told me you had your sister in hand. When you told me Sunday night that you would settle any misunderstandings your mother sister had regarding me, were you trying to placate me, or are you not taking any of this seriously at all?" She hisses.
Well this will never do, sweetheart.
''I take it the outing with my sister at the salon didn't go down well."
"No shit Sherlock"
"Right, well let me ask you something before you go off on me; what happened at the salon? Mia told me you were an arrogant bitch to her and her friends.'' I raise a brow daring her to argue this one '' I got the impression that this outing was to mend the bridges between you and my sister, but apparently, all you've been doing is dishing out bad attitude. Counter-productive to our goal, don't you think?"
And there's that raised eyebrow again.
''You've got to be fucking kidding me. My attitude. You insinuate I have bad attitude?" snort and on queue eye roll. What a nasty habit!
"If you call bad attitude as a person trying to protect your privacy, then by all means, 'bad attitude' it is. This bad attitude was not responding to your sisters' friends' interest in your sexual prowess; This bad attitude was respecting your person by NOT commenting on the size of your dick. By all means, label me as the one with a bad attitude Christian, but if you think for one second that those bitches feel it's their right to have this information, I'll be sure to prepare an advertising poster that'll put an end to all their guessing. Perhaps you should be aware that your person, your cock in particular, has been the main topic of discussion. Did you know, they have a running bet, and my contribution would have been the deciding factor on who conjectured correctly?
Oh. I have a great idea. How about I use you for my next project: A personalized Christian Grey Calendar. A different dick pic for each month of the year calendar, and I'll distribute it amongst your sister's friends!
Your sister is a conniving spoiled bitch. This whole spa day was a set up and your 'angelic' Mia orchestrated it. So, fuck you, fuck her and fuck those bitches bullshit. Bad attitude my ass, and you can tell your sister that verbatim!'' She retorts with a straight face and I'm speechless. Elliot is laughing so hard that he falls off the couch. If this situation didn't concern me, I would probably be laughing too.
''But let's leave your sister and her side show clowns for a minute. Who the hell gave you the right to disclose our personal affairs with your business partner, Elena?''
What. The. Fuck? Was Elena there today? Oh fuck. What did she say?
Ana's glare is lethal, and she's royally pissed. She has assumed a warriors' battle stance; hands on hips, legs a foot apart. It's a dominant position if ever I saw one, and it's fucking hot.
''Mrs. Lincoln asked me to pass a message to you. She wants to wish you the best of luck with the latest deal you've made. You're a fucking idiot Grey. After the shit she pulled on Sunday, do you honestly think Elena wouldn't want to toss in a little ribbing? If you revealed to that Botox Bitch the reason for my involvement in our arrangement, I'll fucking drop you like a gangster drops a dead body in the ocean. I am giving you this chance to man up, and you better be honest with me. What did you tell her?''
Jesus fucking Christ, Elena just couldn't help herself. I'll have to deal with her Thursday because right now I need to get out of this fucking hole with Anastasia.
''Back the fuck down Anastasia. Elena knows nothing. The deal she was talking about is the shipyard in Japan. All she knows about us is that I finally met the right girl. She's just curious about you because she's met a few of my exes over the years.''
Fuck I'm lying through my teeth, and I feel my conscious shake its disapproving head as the words instinctively come out of my mouth. I'm not sure what else to say, having my brother right here, without revealing the fact that I've already told Elena.
Ana stands there assessing my words, and I'm hoping this will bide me some time.
''So help you God, you better be telling the truth."
With that she turns on her heel and heads to her room announcing she'll be back down in 20 minutes.
''OH. My. Fuck. She's fucking awesome Christian. I WANT one!"
Christ when will this shit end? It's like a never-ending loop of crap.
Before Eliot starts asking too many questions, I need to segue our conversation off the bomb Ana just dropped. I don't need Elliot to start asking me questions I'm not prepared to answer.
''Yah, well, it fucking comes with a cat."
"I'm sorry. A what?"
"She wants a fucking cat." And just like that he's doubled over laughing…again. Fucker, but the distraction worked.
He's got tears in his eyes and gasping for breath when he says, ''Oh fuck, this is even better than awesome."
"Over my dead body if she's bringing a cat into this house."
What is it about pets today? First Elliot wanted a dog, but got me instead, and now Ana wants a cat! Did I miss something today? Is it International PETA day or something?
After Elliot's calmed down a bit, he stutters out, "Let her have the fucking cat Christian."
I glare at my brother as if I'm going to take what he says seriously.
"Allowing her to have a pet will help cushion the shit she has to deal with from mom and Mia. Despite what you might think Christian, Dad's right. You need her more than she needs you. So, if the woman wants a fucking cat, let her have a fucking cat.''
I know he is right. In a matter of days, I feel like Ana's completely taken over my life and this realisation scares the shit out of me. Once again, I find myself acting out of the ordinary and I text Andrea to find me a black Maine Coon kitten by tomorrow.
Fuck, I'm going to regret this. With the luck I'm having the fucking cat will probably be a female and scratch the living shit out of everything I own, including me.
As we wait for Ana, Elliot and I discuss some of his latest work projects. Sipping our beers and shooting the shit. I'm thankful for my brother because this is exactly what I needed to get my mind of Elena, Mia and all the shit that's gone down today.
El was about to tell me his ideas for the waterfront properties when he stops mid-sentence and his jaw drops to the floor. Instinctively I turned around to see what got my brother's attention.
Oh. My. Fucking. God.
Anastasia is wearing a dress that should come with a 'danger' banner. She's wearing a baby blue wrap dress designed more like a jacket than a dress. The low-cut neckline showed a great amount of cleavage and the skirt's slit opened high showcasing her fantastic legs. She looked gorgeous and totally fuckable. Instant boner. If Elliot and my reaction to her outfit is any indication to the amount of attention she'll be getting this evening, it's guaranteed that every fucker out there is going to get an eyeful of her, and fuck if that's going to happen! I was about to jump up and demand she change, until I feel Elliot's heavy paw pull me down and keep me in my place.
''Shelve whatever you were going to say away. She's fucking perfect and hanging on to your arm tonight. The plan was to make this public outing as memorable as possible and she fucking nailed it, so be a good boy and compliment the girl!'' Elliot whispers in my ear.
Who would have thought that he would be the one to calm me down? Once again, he's right and I don't need Anastasia even more pissed at me by telling her to change. So, taking my brother's advice, I bite back my words opting instead to greet her amicably.
I take a few moments longer to look at the dress' details. It's a stunning work of art and I recognize that not too many women can pull off wearing a dress of this style. The skirt had embroidered little canvas dolls while the inside lining was a bright orange, almost tangerine colour. While the dress is very revealing, it very trendy and classy. It's a bold statement of confidence and beauty. I often forget that she is only nineteen and if anyone can wear something like that and look sophisticated it's her. Good Lord, she is simply stunning.
''Ms. Steele, you look gorgeous this evening."
Ana blushes at Elliot's compliment.
"Are you completely sure you want to go through with this? You still have time to pick the better brother and run away with me.'' Elliot said wiggling his brows. Asshole.
''Thank you, Elliot, but I'm afraid that I'm already spoken for.'' With a smile she steps closer to me and laces her arm through mine. Her touch feels like I was hit by lightning, shocking but at the same time making my body come alive.
''Meh, worth a try.'' Elliot winks at her. ''So, are you lovebirds ready to face the crowds?''
I looked down at Ana the same time she looked up at me and I swear that I could get lost in her eyes for eternity. An old adage came to mind about seeing your future in someone's eyes. All my life I thought of it as some romantic bullshit fairy tale but looking at Anastasia now I can almost believe it. I shake my head slightly.
This is just for show. Temporary. Strictly business. Stick to the plan.
With a shrug of her delicate shoulders she says, ''As ready as I'll ever be.'' And with Ana still looking into my eyes I just nod my approval. Feeling like a tongue-tied teenager a nod was the best I could give.
''Alrighty then! Let's get this show on the road, shall we?!'' Elliot's voice booms.
How will their first appearance in public go? Will it be a success or a total disaster?
Laters, ilenka!