This update comes even sooner than I anticipated )))

Finally they are out as a couple so enjoy the fun )

Huge thanks and lots of love to my beta-editor. It is her lovely work that makes this story a more funny and enjoyable experience.

Characters belong to E.L. James I'm just having some fun with them.

Anastasia POV

Tuesday 12 May 2019

Have you ever had an out of body experience? It's like being in a dream state. You're moving around, but the events, people, everything around you seem so surreal and detached. The only explanation I can come up with, to help me understand why I'm feeling this way, could be the emotional roller coaster I've been on.

On the way to the gallery I feel myself gradually lose my equilibrium and my nerves are on high alert. The little butterflies that set camp in my stomach earlier have morphed into pterodactyls, and I'm trying very hard to keep myself in check. I know I can't keep this pillar of strength demeanour up for much longer. The tight hold I've been exercising on my sanity is slowly loosening, and fuck if I'm deathly afraid of either shutting down, like literally coma type of shut down; or explode like a volcano. I pity the poor bastard, most likely it will be Christian, who'll be in my vicinity should that happen.

Despite it all, I think I'm doing a pretty well job holding my shit together. I'm taking each day as it comes, but also being conscious of my goal, and my goal's purpose. In the end, it all boils down to my Dad. I will myself to succeed because my father worked hard to make it so, and I won't fail him.

Being in the company of the gorgeous Grey brothers isn't helping my nerves either. These boys are fucking unreal. Both of them are a cut above the rest.

Elliot with his classic All-American look; tall, blond and the best smile you will ever see. It's childlike, fun and mischievous. Kinda Chris Hemsworth Thor sort of thing. Okay, maybe not 'kinda'. Elliot could practically be Chris Hemsworth doppelganger. The man should get his own trading card, he would make a fortune.

Christian; now this man is the epitome of tall, dark and handsome. He has that devilish appeal that mommy and daddy warn you about. Elvis-is-in-the-fucking-house kind of tall, dark and handsome. The difference between the King and Christian is Christian doesn't dye his hair. That shit is all natural, and Christian's eyes. Fuck me, his eyes are an intense grey, stunning and unforgettable.

So, I get why Mia's friends are so fascinated with Elliot and Christian, but the bitches are so crass and low brow in their obsession. Completely inappropriate and embarrassingly juvenile. But what the fuck do I know. Not having much experience with a chick click of my own, I may be completely out to lunch. There's a reason why magazines droll out columns of what size is your man's dick and spruce up your bedroom adventures with these simple Cirque du Soleil positions. Even still. I could never expose something so intimate. Reading about it is one thing. That's nameless; faceless. Sharing it like a Girl Guide campfire story is another. I guess I'll just never understand it, how in the hell is the size of my man's dick is any other woman's business even if she is a friend.

It's so fucking confusing though. Fuck if Christian wasn't such an arrogant asshole, I could see us becoming friends, or even something more if we were in different circumstances. I feel this chemistry around him, and it bothers the living shit out of me. I'm so confused because I don't know what these feelings mean, and I've had no time to bounce them off of anyone, or even process them out for myself. But they are just too intense at times.

What I do know is the relationship that's been spelled out for me. Christian and myself ae just a business deal, and come hell or high water I plan it to keep it purely business until I figure my shit out. I just hope that my mind is strong enough to stand up to my traitorous body, because every time we touch, I feel like I'm set on fire.

Then with vivid clarity I recall his proclivities putting a damper on my libido. The way he uses women is appalling, although it is a two-way street. Those women are just as bad and having had a taste of what the upper echelons of society offer, Christian is sampling the buffet of what's being served. To each their own, I guess. I prefer a la carte myself. I guess I'm just traditional and a bit old fashioned that way. Nothing is wrong with that.

''So, tell me Ana, how do you feel about being in the spotlight like this?'' Elliot's question brings me back to the here and now.

I shrug ''I've always been a private person, but I do know how PR works, so the circus we're about to face doesn't surprise or scare me much. Besides, it's just a few photos and schmoozing. It's no different than a typical day in the advertising business, and I'm familiar with that scene having been around it all my life.''

''How are you holding up?'' I address Christian who was staring at the passing scenery and holding my hand for dear life. He may fool most people, but I can see that this invasion into his private affairs is affecting him a lot more than he wants to admit.

''I hate this shit, but we don't have a choice. At least this time I'll be using them for my own agenda instead of the other way around, so I'll play nice.''

''Will wonders never cease. I'm fucking glad I tagged along to see this. Christian being polite to the press. Holy shit, the press is going to be on you like a fat kid on chocolate cake!''

Ah fuck, Elliot never disappoints. He's so awesome. Fucking hilarious.

''Fuck off, Elliot.'' Christian grits out, but the next second he smiles wickedly at his brother. Jesus, can this man get any hotter?

''I'm sure the press will have its own field day with you Mr. 'God's Gift to Women' showing up to an event without a date. You with no date, and I with the most beautiful girl on my arm, will most assuredly keep the papers running for a while. Who's the loser now?''

I can't help myself and I burst out laughing. This sibling banter is hilarious, and it's times like this I wish I had a sibling too. Growing up as an only child can get lonely and I feel it even more now that dad is no longer here.

''Oh, fuck that shit. I think the spin would be more like, Two Grey Brothers escorting One Stunning Lady; Conjectures here. I can't wait to read what's going to be in the papers tomorrow. It'll be a nice change from all the regular shit they spew about us. Mind you, some of that shit is true when it comes to me.'' Elliot says somewhat shame-facedly. He's too cute, but it's hilarious and we all start cracking up.

Despite how often these two get photographed and harassed by the masses, and trust me, I get the appeal. I believe when it comes to all the hoopla, they're a bit camera shy, and each brother reacts differently to the attention. Elliot plays up the wonamezer thing, but I don't think he's really like that. I mean, deep down, I don't think that will be his on-going lifestyle. I get that he was/ is a 'ho', but please; when pussy is being thrown at you like confetti on your wedding day, it's not rocket science for any hot-blooded male. Still, I'm sure Elliot is feeling a bit uncomfortable having everyone stare and judge him.

And Christian, well, he's admitted himself that he's a buffoon having never been in any relationship outside of his playroom, and even that is subject to debate. This exposition tonight is making him uneasy being the recluse that he is.

So, perhaps with all this collective nervous energy in the car, it's normal to get the giggles. Whatever it is, laughing with these two dispelled most of my nervousness and tension, and it feels liberating.

By the time we were able to compose ourselves we have arrived at the gallery, and holy shit if there's not a mob of reporters, from tabloids to a slew of news stations waiting for us! We were expecting a media presence, but Christ this mob is equivalent to an Oscar night, and from the look the fellas have on their faces, I get the impression this kind of a turn-out was not something they were expecting. But with both Grey men slotted for attendance, particularly Christian Grey, it's a no brainer. Apparently, all things Christian Grey is news. I just hope the extended coverage goes well for the displaying artist as well. Sensing my rising panic Christian takes both of my hands in his and looks straight into my eyes.

''Don't worry Anastasia, they won't come near you. Taylor and Sawyer know what to do, just relax ok? Elliot and I will be the first out of the car, then after security clears a path, I'll help you out. We pose for a minute and then head straight inside. We won't be answering any questions now, ok?'' I just nod in understanding.

Oh, sweet Jesus, I think I'm going to throw up any second.

''Ana." I open my eyes and keep them locked onto Christians. "You're going to be fine. You're absolutely stunning and you're with me. I won't let anything happen to you. I promise. Now please put on that award-winning smile and let's do this.'' He squeezes my hand one more time and steps out.

Camera flashes go off and insanity ensues. I get that Christian is a young, insanely successful businessman, but, still, he's just a businessman. You'd think he was a pop star or British Royalty what with all this media frenzy.

Trying to zone out the overwhelming press of noise and mayhem, I focus on the hand that is extended out to me. I look up and see Christian and his gentle smile encouraging me. The moment I reach out and take his hand, my senses immediately calm. Once I'm out of the car, Christian puts his arm around my waist and the camera flashes go off. I'm blinded by a million lights and the noise is so lout that I can't hear myself think. I smile up at Christian as we planned, but we don't stay outside for long and are immediately rushed through the gallery doors by security.

Holy Hell! And this is only a gallery opening. I can only imagine the mayhem for the bigger attractions we attend. I'm not sure I'm prepared for this. I didn't know it was going to be this ridiculous. Oh. Fuck. Me.

Mia POV

What a first-class Bitch! Ana is one uptight, unsociable brat. My homeys filled me in while Amanda and I were getting our massages, and Ana treated them like shit. Lillian and Jenna were just trying to get to know her better, striking up inconsequential small talk, until she went all nuclear on them. But the worst part of it all, the whole reason for me gathering my posse together in the first place, was to see if they could get more information from her. The fact that none of my girls, who could squeeze a confession out of the Pope if they wanted to, couldn't catch a sneeze out of the woman was baffling.

Fuck this spa thing did not turn out how I had planned.

Of course, the Bitch had to act like a good Samaritan and gave up her hair appointment for someone else. I suspect she did that just to get the fuck out of dodge and run to Christian with some sob story. I texted him before I left the salon, so I'm sure he'll share some words with her, and hopefully set her straight about her attitude before the opening tonight.

Serves her right, stupid bitch.

Amanda's plan to tip off the press was brilliant. Now the place is swarmed with what looks like every tabloid in town. Let's see if Miss 'Respect Yourself' Prissy can handle the kind of attention my brother garnishes. I'll bet my black Amex card she won't be able to handle shit and embarrass herself by freaking out and causing a scene; and that , my friend is exactly what I'm aiming for. Christian may think she's the one, but after tonight he'll see how unsuitable she is for our world. Then, maybe he'll consider one of my friends who were raised to deal with all this.

Amanda and I had been mingling among the Seattle's best both deciding to fly solo for tonight event. It's been our first public outing in a while, and we agreed that this was a great way to show ourselves off and maybe solicit some new admirers. It's sad knowing that while there are a lot of great guys in our circle, I haven't found one that pique my interest for longer than a week.

After half an hour of walking around and checking the scene, I'm really annoyed and incredibly bored. Everywhere I turn, all anyone wants to talk about is Christian and his mysterious plus one. For fucks-sake! We're at a Gallery opening, shouldn't people be interested in the exhibition. Come to think of it, what's the name of the artist?

I look over the crowd once again and finally spot Jenna and Lilly arriving with their dates and some other guys we went to school with. Which brings to mind my disastrous date with Ethan Kavanagh.

Ethan Kavanagh. What a complete ass he was, walking out on me at the restaurant in the middle of dinner. That idiot couldn't see I was his ticket to success. Christian probably put him in his place, and I bet he's sorry now.

As I head over to them, we barely get the chance to greet each other when Sean glances over my shoulder and I literally watched his jaw hit the ground. We all look to where he was staring and also notice a bit of commotion by the entrance.

''Hot Dang that is one badass momma! The rumours were right. The Great Christian Grey got himself a girl and fuck me if she's not some striking piece of ass. She definitely raises the bar to anyone else he's shown up with in the past.'' Sean's word vomit is irritating. Good grief, what do men even see in this woman. It's ridiculous.

I roll my eyes at the drooling idiots and spot my brother and his skank. Oh, what the fuck is she wearing? Wait until mom sees this. I'm sure she'll be absolutely tickled reading about this in the paper tomorrow morning. Fucking perfect. Here I thought that getting rid of Ana would be a lot harder than I thought, and she comes in looking like that. Couldn't ask for any better. She's doing a great job of digging her own social grave.

''Oh yeah! They're finally here.'' I say all exited, and for once I'm not faking it. '' Better go and say 'hi' to the happy couple.'' And I just know they won't be so happy for long.

Sayonara Ana!

Christian POV

What the fuck is going on here? I recognize that Opening Nights to events are newsworthy, but his is a bloody gallery opening, not the Golden Globes for fucks sake! My PR team didn't alert me to amount of press that would be present tonight. This is just ridiculous!

I can see Anastasia's bravado from earlier is slipping, and I don't blame her. The mob outside the car is making even El and I uneasy.

Fuck, I should have taken more security with us.

With so many people the plan to pose for some photos and answer questions is shot to shit. This mob is a perfect recipe for disaster, and I'll be damned if Ana gets hurt. My fucking PR team better have a good reason why they didn't inform me of how tonight was going to go down. I should've been better prepared for this. I try to reassure Ana that everything will be fine praying at the same time that we will get into the building unscathed.

The short walk from the car to the building was pure nightmare. We were literally blinded by camera flashes and screaming Paparazzi. The noise was so loud, we couldn't understand their questions. It was evident that Anastasia was overwhelmed, almost terrified, but she handled the mob like a pro. Finally, we get into the building. I take an exasperated breath, closing my eyes waiting to get my vision back.

''Holy Shit-Tit on a stick! What in the living hell was that? Jesus Christian, I know that your famous and all, but I've never seen it get this crazy before. Not even the announcement of your first billion came out.''

''I have no fucking clue. My PR team usually prepares me for shit like this, and I don't think they were expecting this kind of an onslaught. A presence, yes, but this. Jesus Fuck! I think they underestimated the media when they commented that I would be showing up with a date tonight. We had no clue the turn-out was going to be this big.'' I still have my eyes close trying to blink the balls of lights still dancing on my retina.

Once my vision clears enough, I turn my attention to the woman beside me. The fact that I didn't loosen my hold on her is not lost on me, but she is completely oblivious to our closeness. I don't know if I should feel relieved or irritated with her lack of reaction, because her proximity is sending real shockwaves throughout my body.

''Ana, are you ok? I know this must be overwhelming for you.''

It takes her a second to come back to the here and now but when she looks up and she flashes me the most brilliant smile I've ever seen, I'm floored. Fuck, she's perfect.

''That was a bit scary, I'll admit, but having yourself and Elliot with me, helped." She rubs my arm with her free hand. "Let's keep this going. The sooner this evening is done, the sooner we can go home." She's pulling me gently along into the room, but I hear her mumble, "The first thing I'm doing when I get home is change into something that makes me look like a homeless person."

I stop us in our tracks and stare down at her, and she raisers her eyes to give me this challenging look. "What? It's true and you do it all the time, so give it up hot shot" And I just lose it. I burst into one of those full belly laughs while she's giggling beside me.

Oh, Jesus fuck, I heven't laughed this hard in forever. Christ that feels good.

Then she does the most unexpected thing. She tugs on my arm so that I have to lean in a bit, while she stands on her tippy toes planting a kiss on the corner of my mouth. Sweet Jesus! For a moment my mind goes completely blank and the world just disappeared. The romantics call it tunnel vision. I swear it was a scene straight out of Snow White. All that's missing is music and twittering birds in the background.

I think the camera lights really affected my brain. Snow White?! Where the fuck did that come from?

I've never reacted this way to a kiss before. Even when Elena kissed me that first time, it was carnal and animalistic, nothing like this. Ana's kiss was otherworldly and intimate. As a rule, I never kissed any of my subs. It would send the wrong signal, and I was sure to mark it down as a hard limit, but with Ana, her kiss felt strangely right and pleasurable.

Maybe it's a one-off thing. I'll have to kiss her again to test my theory. Besides, we need to make this relationship believable, so kissing her won't be so out of place, right?

Yah right, the other half of my brain replies. Opportunist is what you are.

''Don't get to hung up on it Grey." Ana whispers to me, "it's all for show." And that comment bursts my Disney bubble. No more Snow White visions and those imaginary little birds abandoned the fantasy as well.

"Now let's get down to business." She says. "You need to start introducing me to some people. Shall we?'' With a teasing smile she turns walking further into the gallery. I stand still watching her perfect ass move in that perfect dress, until I realize she's walking away from me. I'm about to follow, but I sense Elliot right behind me.

''Fuck if you aren't one lucky son of a bitch, Christian. A word of advice though. You best keep her by your side tonight. You may not be aware, but your lady is turning heads, and I'm not talking about the ones we see. Pay attention. Ana's the shiny new toy on display and they all want a chance to play with her.'' He whispers in my ear.

Anastasia is a few steps ahead of us now and I finally take a good look around. For once, no one is noticing me. It's like there's an unknown spotlight, and it's zeroing in on Ana. The women regard her with curiosity and obvious envy, while the men openly appraise her.

Yeah; not going to happen boys. She's mine.

With quick steps I catch up with Anastasia while she's talking to the woman who's handing out flyers and programs. As I get closer, I can't fucking believe what, or rather, who I am seeing.

Oh, for fucks sake! What a fucking disaster in the making. Really?! Susannah Fucking Daniels.

Someone must really hate me up there because this shit just does not stop. How many fucking women are in the city of Seattle, and she just happen to be the one chosen to work tonight, for this specific event, at this exact time. Either I have shit for luck, which lately, seems to be my new modus operandi, or this is a fucking set up.

''Hey baby'' I put a hand on Ana's waist pulling her body into mine and kiss her temple, all the while levelling a glare at Susannah.

Yah, fuck you Bitch. Don't play this game with me. You. Won't. Win.

''Welcome to the Jose Rodrigues show, sir'' Susannah hands me the program with a mischievous smile.

Be careful Susannah. Your ass is grass if you fuck this night up.

I give her a nod and lead Anastasia away quickly.

''I met that woman at the salon today. She came in very distraught. Mrs. Lincoln asked if I could give my appointment with Franco to her as her usual aesthetician cancelled on her, and she had to work tonight. That Franco guy is a true magician because she looks fantastic. I'm definitely going to give him a call and get him to do something with my mangey mane.'' Ana comments.

"Don't worry. I'll call him personally for you and arrange for him to make a house for you. I bet he will be thrilled. And your hair is not mangey Ana. It's beautiful like water flowing over mahogany wood" Ana looks up at me in surprise. "I'm a silent partner to the Salon Ana. My fiancé doesn't need to stand in line or make an appointment. Franco works for me. You want Franco. I'll get you Franco. Just let me know when you want him to come in, and he'll be there."

Ana looks at me in awe, and I give her a small smirk and a shrug.

"Wow. Ok. Thanks Christian."

I look over and see that Susannah is staring at us. Knowing that Ana and Susannah have already met, and that Ana doesn't have a clue who Susannah is, gives me hope that Susannah can keep her trap shut. But the night is young, and the looks she's giving Ana keeps me on guard.

Mia comes bouncing up to me, giving me a brief hug and the fakest smile for Anastasia.

I don't understand this attitude from Mia, nor where her animosity toward Ana steams from. I confronted Ana after Mia texted me what went down in the salon earlier. I wasn't prepared to hear Ana's version of events. I can't imagine Ana making this shit up. She's too invested in making this work to behave like a bitch and lie after. Mia failed to mention, or maybe her friends didn't accurately give their side of the story, what really went down at the salon.

Although I feel it's important for Mia and Ana to get along, I'm thankful for Ana's discretion concerning our private life. Mia should know better that to discuss me with those juvies she hangs out with. While I love my sister, she better tone down her attitude towards Ana. Ana may be my fake wife, but she's still my wife, and I won't have Mia disrespecting her.

''Oh, thank God, you finally made it! It is crazy out there with all the press. How are you handling the attention Ana? Some dress you have too, who's the designer?'' And this is the Mia I know. This is the girl I've known all my life and she's back with a vengeance with her non-stop questions.

''Mia. Yes, the press outside was a bit overwhelming, but I'm completely fine. The dress was a gift from a girl I interviewed for a project back in England for Breast Cancer Awareness. She's a designer in the UK. I promised to wear it to the project launch party, but since I won't be attending that now, I saw this event as the perfect opportunity to give her some recognition.'' Ana's answers are direct like she's answering a reporter. It's friendly but detached.

''How lovely'' Mia replies, and I do not miss the sarcasm nor the eye roll.

Fucking great. First Susannah, now Mia, what the fuck next universe?

''Christian, I want to meet the displaying artist. Will it be ok if I leave you with Mia for a moment?''

''No, I'll go with you. See you around Mia'' Yah, like fuck if I was going to leave Anastasia on her own looking like a walking aphrodisiac.

You're stuck with me like stink on a fart honey.

The rest of the night went by without a hitch. We met up with Anastasia's friend, the one and only Ms. Kavanagh. To her credit she was pleasant with me this time. When Ana introduced Elliot, the poor sod was falling over his dick trying to get her attention. Christ what an idiot! I think Elliot's past may have caught up with him. He should have known his uncontrolled whoring would come and bite him in the ass one day. Consequences my friend.

Watching Anastasia move through the room was like watching Moses part the Red Sea. People stopped, moved to accommodate her and initiated conversation, greeting her as if they were meeting an old friend. It was almost magical the way people responded to her, like she was casting a spell drawing them to her.

Needless to say, with her charm, intelligence and business savvy, she met some important people securing several meetings for later in the month. I'd like to think it was because of me that she drew this much attention, and that may be true in part, but the majority of her success tonight lies squarely on her delicate sensual shoulders.

How do I know this? Aleksey Nikolayev.

Mr. Nikolayev is a very influential businessman from Russia. GEH had been vying to meet with him since we found out he would be stateside. He is in attendance tonight, hence the reason I'm here. The reason why Mr. Nikolayev is here is because he has an interest in securing a deal with my competitor's shipyard and was reluctant to get involved with us. That is until he met Anastasia.

Ana attracted his attention because like I said, aphrodisiac on legs, but her being fluent in Russian and the ability to comfortably discuss with him their shared love of Classic Russian literature and the beauty of said language. Hmm, maybe I should start learning it too. Lately, the ones that speak Russian or Chinese are worth their weight in gold.

My team had been working for days to get to this man. Ana took only fifteen minutes. He was putty in her hands by the time we moved on, AND I was able to secure a meeting with him later in the week. If everything turns out well, and Mr Nikolayev agrees to jump on board with us, our collaboration will open a lot of doors in Russia for GEH.

If I had known that having a woman on my arm was so beneficial, I would've gotten one sooner. But then again, I highly doubt that just anyone would be better. Elliot wasn't kidding. The woman knows her shit and it's not just impressive, it's fucking hot.

Christ! dick, meet hand…again.

Ana leans on me slightly, which catches me off guard as I wait for the tell-tale signs of a panic attack, but it doesn't come. I pull her closer to me, just to make sure I'm not imaging things until she whispers up to me, ''Do you think we've been here long enough? I'm so tired, I'd really just like to go home now."

I bend down and kiss her forehead, "of course. It has been a long night. I'm surprised I even stayed this long, but it was worth it. Thank you again for securing a meeting for me with Nikolayev." I squeeze her to me again, because I just can't believe I can do this without going berserk.

"You're welcome. But before we leave, I just need to use the ladies' room quickly"

"I'll walk over with you" with that I let her go and entwine our hands together making our way toward the restrooms.

There is a quiet hallway where I wait just outside of the restrooms. I quickly call Taylor and tell him to meet us with the car in ten minutes. As I'm texting Elliot that we are about to leave, I feel someone's hand on my bicep. My first reflex is to step away immediately because this touch felt different from Ana's, and my body knew it immediately. That thought surprised me, then I looked to whom the hand belonged to.

Oh, fuck a duck. Christ woman! What part of 'no' do you not understand?

Susannah is standing before me with a look I know all too well. The woman is fucking desperate and I know she's going to make an embarrassing spectacle of herself. It's like graffiti on a wall.

''Sir, I know we didn't part on the best of terms, but please reconsider our arrangement. I know we both enjoyed our time together. I think we'd make a fantastic team. I've met your girlfriend and she's nice, like good girl nice. Girls like her won't be able to perform for you in the playroom the way I have. You would be living every man's dream having both of us in your life'' she smiles and looks at me seductively through her lashes.

Christ give me strength.

I'm about to unleash the gates of hell on her when I see Anastasia walking out of the restroom heading in our direction.

And as predicted, the universe has gifted me with hopefully last of the shit I need to deal with for the evening.

Ana was clear in her request to not meet any of my Subs, but in defence, I hadn't planned this. I know once Ana finds out Susannah was one of them, shit's going to hit the fan.

''Hello again, Susannah.'' She smiles but looks puzzled why I would be standing here talking to the flyer girl.

''Is the car ready, Christian?'' she turns to me and by the look in her eyes I just know she will interrogate me later when we are alone.

''Sure baby, Taylor texted that he and Elliot are waiting outside. The press has dwindled down, but they are a few still outside, so we better keep Sawyer close just in case. Ms. Daniels'' I give Susannah a nod dismissing her and take Anastasia by the hand to lead her out of here.

''You will never make him happy!''

Fucking Hell in a hand basket!

Susannah's outburst draws our attention back to her. I tilt my head back heavenwards in exasperation. I just can't seem to cut a break.

''Pardon me?'' Ana turns to her with a raised eyebrow.

And here we go…

''You heard me. You may think that you are so perfect but news flash he doesn't like little mousy girls. Do you have any idea what he likes in the bedroom? I bet you don't! Well Sir here prefers to whip his women to get off, so you better run while you still can!''

You know. It wasn't until this moment that I realized how ridiculous Susannah sounded. What a revelation. After hearing Ana speak so succinctly, with well thought out questions and educated answers all night, hearing Susannah made me realize how moronic she is. Clearly intelligence was not a factor when I was signing these girls up. I was about to handle the situation when Ana beats me to it.

''Ah. I see. You're one of the girls that got dismissed." She pauses taking a deep breath, closing her eyes. I'm thinking she's going to blow full gaskets, but she surprises me, yet again.

"I'm curious, when you prepared yourself to come here tonight, what exactly did you envision?"

Ana is deathly calm which scares me a shit lot more than when she's all fire and fury.

"Did you think that by enlightening me about your previous relationship with Christian, this will somehow shake me up and make me run for the hills? I know everything about Christian and his past, and for you to go around brandishing your sexual encounters with him, or anyone else for that matter, is vulgar and completely disrespectful. And let's not forget that we are in a public place too. How Christian lived his life before me is not a problem to me, the past is in the past. We all have one, and you throwing it around as if it's something I need to aspire to must be humiliating for you. This is the second time today that I've had to deal with this, I'm starting to I feel like a broken record. So, I'll tell you exactly what I've told them: I am not in the habit of discussing mine, or Sirs , private affairs.

Yes, I understand Christian is a wonderful man, but he doesn't want you. That's not a reflection of you, merely a change in him. The direction he is choosing to take for his life, DOES NOT INCLUDE YOU. If he wanted you, I wouldn't be here with him tonight. You would be, and this display of insecurity is seriously pathetic. You do yourself a serious disservice by approaching him and lashing out at me like this. You're young. You're beautiful. No man should be the 'end all' and 'be all' to your life. Grow up!'' With that she turns and walks away.

Once again, I am standing there stunned, and in a whole other level of Turned. The. Fuck. On. My dick is painfully hard, yet I still have a situation to handle. I look back at Susannah, who is equally stunned, and my cock instantly deflates.

''I will be in contact with my lawyer first thing in the morning. You have been warned, Ms. Daniels.''

I quickly catch up with Ana and pull her possessively closer to me. I've never met someone like her ever. And the only wish I've got right now is to throw her over my shoulder, drag her to Escala and ravish her body till dawn. Obviously, I have a better chance of playing pickup sticks with my butt cheeks, so I resign myself to an apology.

''Anastasia, shit. I'm really sorry about Susannah. You didn't need to handle that. Susannah was my responsibility and I did speak to her.'' I say in a soothing tone.

''Fuck Grey! I told you she needed to be addressed when we came to this understanding, not alienate the woman. Where the fuck do you pick these girls from? They're all Bat-Ass-Crazy!" She stops her tirade and turns to me.

"Listen, I'm tired and I just want to go home. I know her approaching you this evening, having already discussed with her your situation, is not your fault. Break ups affect people differently. I just hope she won't be a big problem for us."

''Let's not get into this in public, baby.'' I say as we pass a group of people and kiss her temple.

She rests her head on my chest briefly before she steps back and winks at me. ''I'm going to hold you to it Grey.''

Yes. Of course you will. Joy.

I hope I did this chapter justice )))

I also know that my updates are erratic and not regular but there is nothing I can do about it at the moment. I write in my free time and sometimes it does take awhile to put all my ideas on paper correctly (English is my third language)

My wonderful beta also has a life so please be patient )

I also want to thank everyone for the wonderful response to this tale. It is truly inspiring.

Next chapter you will find out how will Carrick's talk with Mia go down.

Ilenka