Chapter 44 – Ends and Beginnings
October 1
Darius returned from the gold claim. He didn't find anything, but he and Morse had a good time exploring in the fresh air and sunshine. Darius changed his physical address to a Mail-4-U box for his Amazon prime account. They agreed to hold packages for him for fourteen days. One of his first purchases was two books: Gold Mining in Washington State and Gold Panning in the Pacific Northwest. He also purchased a couple books on tiny house living and tiny house design. He filed paperwork with the VA to direct deposit his pension in a Seattle branch of Wells Fargo. Darius used one of his free afternoons to check in at the VA Medical Center. He had a copy of his medical file for them. He passed his physical with an excellent score.
Darius was settled in his trailer in the parking lot at WWC. He became friends with Ben Banfield, the retired doctor who had parked his trailer at Rory's Roadkill. Since Banfield volunteered in the WWC Intake Center, he moved his trailer to the complex, next to Darius. Both of them provided security for the complex. Elliot arranged for them to have access to electricity and water in exchange for their efforts. Darius and the doctor played a lot of pool at Rory's. Morse hunkered down under a table and kept them company.
Darius went to Grey Sound and helped Grey Construction put the finishing touches on the boathouse. All the work at Grey Sound would be completed and inspected by Friday. Christian and Ana decided to wait on the sea wall until spring. They were anxious to begin their lives in their new home.
Elliot ran a secondary crew at the Washington Warriors complex. They were in the process of gutting the two largest buildings which would be retrofitted as apartments for vets and their families. The 15,000 square foot buildings would be recreated in twenty 600 square foot apartments, with a laundry center and a building supervisor's quarters. Forty rent-controlled apartments for vets and families was a beginning…but Elliot wanted to acquire more acreage for the complex where he could build a neighborhood of tiny houses.
Since Banfield and Miles were living in trailers; Elliot realized the complex needed an RV campground. At first, he thought 50 spaces would be enough; but inquiries at the Intake Center soon convinced him the RV campground could use 100 spaces. It would need an office, laundromat, recreation center, and perhaps one of those Mail-4-U centers. He was thrilled to hand that issue off to José to research. Additionally, he had José research how much land they needed to put in a 100-200 unit of 12x12 storage garages. Several of the vets requested a building to be used as a center/daycare for children.
The Intake Center was open from eight to eight Monday through Saturday. Dr. T., Agate and Stand volunteered to see the children of vets when they had time. Carrick volunteered to help vets get their benefits and sort their legal issues as he and his interns had time.
~X~
Ana returned the 100 manuscripts (which she took to Savannah) to Grey Publishing. She updated the database with her reviews while she was gone. Ninety-two, which she did not recommend, went to archives. She held the other eight aside, waiting for Wednesday's editorial meeting. These eight had possibilities. Hannah had five more from editors for Ana to read before Wednesday.
Hannah gave Ana the mail folders she had been saving. One folder held conference flyers and agendas. One folder held seventeen invitations for Ana to join or sponsor education groups, literacy groups, and unfortunately…social groups. Ana snorted. The last thing she wanted was to dress in designer clothes and attend 'smart lunches' with other society wives. Ana filed the conference flyers which had e-Publishing threads in the month folder when early bird registration was due. She gave Hannah the invitations to groups with 'no thanks' letters.
~X~
Ros brought three suggestions from Mergers and Acquisitions. Christian read the proposals. 2012 had been a year of refining technologies…rather than invention. Better routers enabled better WIFI. Better touchscreens enabled apps. Christian recommended Grey House stay the course set so far. Batwari was settled in New York and doing an excellent job of Global Operations Manager. Barney and the new tech staff were settled and in the swing of things. The new CFO and his assistant were managing Grey House finances with an emphasis on financial security and proper maintenance of accounts.
Christian appreciated the time he took for his honeymoon, and for the time to be with Ana while she was supported Carla and Bob. He enjoyed this bit of down time to read about emergent technologies.
~X~
Kate's Kavanagh Media blog about breast cancer was popular. She started a 'Your Two Cents' part of the blog where anyone could donate (hopefully more than two cents) and share their story. Kate separated stories under recommendations for doctors, medical programs, treatment options, clinical trials, genetic screening and current breast cancer research. The money raised by Kate's blog was matched by her and donated to the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance and its Mammogram Van. One of her goals was to get the Mammogram Van to the grand opening for the female vets dormitory.
Kate understood Ana could not discuss her mother for the blog because of privacy issues…not just for herself, but for the eleven women from her mother's support group. Kate added a few paragraphs about Carla under the story section, with a great shot of the deep pink cashmere bed jacket and large lap blanket. She contacted the companies selling the jacket and blanket; offering a link to both, in exchange for one set to give away on Halloween.
Seattle Times kept Kate busy as a new reporter once her internship was over. She knew what was on Seattle's social, events and tourism calendar six months out. She attended events, fundraisers, and weddings. When Elliot could not attend as her plus one, she relied on Mia. Several times she and Elliot shared the red carpet at events with Christian and Ana.
~X~
When Ana received the insurance check for Carla, she added it to the funds from the sale of the Etsy store, and the money from selling Carla's white fox jacket. With Christian's encouragement, she increased the amount to a quarter of a million and donated it to the American Cancer Society for breast cancer research in remembrance of Carla. Ana had her baseline mammogram completed after her birthday. She had a complete physical and received her Depo Provera shot. She would never forget…she knew to schedule such things around her birthday; but she now had Carla's experience to remind her.
Christian insisted Ana take another quarter of a million to create something in her biological father's memory. Grey House could use the donations for a tax break. Ana wanted to discuss it with Ray and Bee. She hoped to enlarge the services offered at the complex.
October 3
Gwen hated attending editorial meetings. They seemed to drag on forever. Topics for today included a publishing conference in San Diego over Martin Luther King weekend. As it didn't have any E-publishing seminars, Ana passed on attending. Ana brought 13 manuscripts with her; five were requested by editors; eight were selected by her for consideration.
Ana and Gwen selected lunch from the sandwich cart which came through the building at lunch time. They closed the door to Ana's office and had a good gossip. Ana asked if Gwen knew how her protégé Aria was doing with José. Gwen's face told Ana something was wrong before Gwen said anything.
"They aren't seeing one another," Gwen's attitude was a little uneasy.
"I know it's not my business, but I thought they were good for one another," Ana felt bad for José as she thought he really liked Aria. "They are both talented, and seemed to communicate well."
"It wasn't her name he was calling out in his throes of passion." Gwen's look told Ana more than she wanted to know.
"God," Ana shook her head. "It must be something in the water. Claire and Darius broke up also."
"Really?" Gwen seemed startled. "Why? He's such a nice man. His dog is adorable. Ros thinks he's lovely. We would not mind having both of them as security at our house. If anything happens with him and Grey Security or Grey Construction…expect to find them at Casa de Lynns. Hand to god…I think Ros would feed them steak every Sunday if it meant they'd work for us."
"As they say in Pride and Prejudice…there were strong objections." Ana shrugged. "Claire won't discuss it. Grace revealed he's seeing one of her residents. Her resident claims Claire's parents thought Darius was too old for Claire. It's been a bit sticky; but we work around it. I try to think of Darius as one of Adrian's men in black first. IMHO, Darius is a decent person. He works part-time for Grey Security, so he must have passed a background check. He's working part time for Grey Construction. He can only work so many hours before it impacts his military pension."
"Well, I've learned the hard way to not ask my two protégés about their personal life. I'm learning 'don't ask…don't tell' the hard way." Gwen rolled her eyes. "José applied to become a member of the Latino Chamber of Commerce. He had to list three references. He asked me to be one. I heard Elliot and Kate provided the other two references. The Latino Chamber meets the first Saturday of every month. José talked to me about making new business cards. I encouraged him to put one of his best photos on one side, and his pertinent information on the other. He has business cards from Grey Construction as a project manager, so his new business card is for his photography business."
"Christian was bothered when he met Aria. He said she was an Ana clone. Considering the events from a year ago, I've been…uneasy." Ana commented. "Christian and I need to discuss the upcoming holidays. Veterans weekend is the grand opening for the men's dormitory at WWC. He wants to go to Aspen for Thanksgiving and Christmas. I don't ski; but the area is beautiful and I could use the rest."
"We're going to Hawaii for Veterans Weekend, Thanksgiving, Christmas and Martin Luther King Weekend. I just want some time in the sun and sand." Gwen explained. "Do you feel like shopping with me? I don't mean at the stores and malls. I just want someone to bounce ideas off when I shop online."
"I'll be your shopping buddy!" Ana agreed. "Now that the pool and pool house are finished, I need to get a few more swim suits and extra beach towels to store there."
They accessed their laptops and spent a long lunch hour shopping online.
~X~
Darius picked Anya up at the hospital after her shift. She offered to make dinner for them at his trailer. They shopped with one another, learning each other's likes and dislikes. They didn't fix anything special…just meatloaf, baked potatoes, salad and vegetable…but the vegetable was the sticky point. Anya didn't eat starchy vegetables like corn or peas. Darius didn't care for green beans. They both settled on asparagus. They shopped together, cooked together, cleaned together, danced in the kitchen…and laughed together. Darius suggested this week's conversation starter would be something they wanted to learn. Darius thought he might like taking a geology class to learn more about rocks. Anya explained she could speak Chinese and French because of her dads and their families, but she wanted to learn to read and write both languages. She felt that would be delayed until she finished her residency. When Darius took Anya home; her dads met him and Morse. Both her fathers liked hiking and agreed to have a man date with their daughter's new boyfriend.
October 5
CTG to ASG: It's been a bitch of a week. How do you feel about letting off some steam at Escala tonight?
ASG to CTG: Overnight at Escala, home to Grey Sound tomorrow?
CTG to ASG: Works for me. The inspectors signed off on the house. Swim in our new pool tomorrow? I asked Mac to bring The Grace to Grey Sound. We can sail on Sunday.
ASG to CTG: I'd like that. Please give everyone tonight off. I can make dinner for us whenever we decide we're hungry.
~X~
Ana looked up from her desk to see Christian in the doorway. He closed the door behind him.
"Mrs. Grey," He kissed her hello, and grabbed her ass. "I had to take a quick break." He reached in his suit jacket pocket and withdrew a pair of black lace panties. "Put these on, and give me the pair you are wearing."
Ana complied. "Is there a reason…" she started to say before Christian smirked. Ana felt the vibrator in her panties activate. "Oh my…please tell me there's a proximity limit to that remote."
"I won't use it after I leave here. However, I'm having the Spyder delivered to Grey House, so I can drive you to Escala. I don't intend to share your reaction to the vibrator with close protection details." He turned the remote off before opening Ana's office door.
~X~
Ana was blindfolded, and restrained to the suspension system. Christian fastened the spreader bar to Ana's ankles. He had activated the vibrator several times during the ride home, in the elevator, and while she was climbing the stairs to the playroom. He turned the vibrator on low while he gently applied his favorite suede flogger to her alabaster skin. He increased the intensity of the vibrator and the strikes. Ana could not squeeze her thighs together to relieve the increasing sensations in her apex. Christian laid the flogger aside, removed the spreader bar and released Ana from the suspension system. He placed her bound hands over his neck and wrapped her legs around his waist.
Christian carried Ana to the bed, removed her panties and her gag. "Thank you, Mrs. Grey," he whispered to her. He tried to edge to prolong the sensations for them but they both quickly lost control. Christian removed Ana's blindfold and handcuffs. He enjoyed the sensation of his wife wrapping her arms and legs around him and holding him until they fell asleep in each other's arms.
~X~
Gwen and Ros, attired in jeans, cashmere sweaters, stilettos and masks, went to the Skirt Club for the first time in months. Gwen wanted to show her appreciation for the new executive staff at Grey House. She was spending more time with Ros as a couple, instead of going to Grey House and working while Ros worked impossible hours. It was nice to have dinner, dance, hold hands, and get lingerie ideas from Panty Drop dancers.
October 6
"Good morning wife," Christian bent to kiss Ana.
"Good morning husband," she stretched and opened her eyes. "You're dressed already," Ana faux pouted.
"Taylor and I are going for a run," Christian commented. "You can sleep in until we get back…maybe forty minutes?"
"Perhaps," she kissed him goodbye and sent him on his way. She needed to clean the playroom. She was too tired last night…or early this morning. When she heard the front door close, she was up…tossing pajamas in the dirty clothes and reaching for a clean pair of sleep shorts and camisole. She stripped the bed linens, leaving them in a large pile by the bedroom door. Accessing the playroom, Ana turned the lights up high, popped her earbuds in, hit her playlist and began cleaning.
'Start at the door. Consider it 12 o'clock. Clean clockwise around the room. Dust from high to low. Vacuum last.' Carla's directives echoed in Ana's head. She shoved them aside. 'Not today. I have time to clean the equipment and toys we used, including the ensuite.' Ana reached for disinfecting wipes and wiped down everything they used or touched last night. She put clean toys away where they belonged…and gave the tops and fronts of toy cabinets a quick cleaning. She finished scrubbing the ensuite, and checked supplies like candles and bubble bath. She gathered the trashcan, the towels, and her panties which held the vibrator. She turned off the lights and locked the playroom door.
Ana dropped the dirty laundry from the playroom on top of the pile of bed linens. She dumped the trash and went to take a shower. She had just finished clipping her freshly washed hair high on her head when her husband joined her. "Mrs. Grey," he murmured into a bare shoulder while soaping her breasts. "What a nice way to start the day…" Christian started to say when Ana rubbed her round bottom against his crotch.
"Did you have a nice run?" Ana adroitly traded places with him.
Christian stood under the hot water, letting it cascade over him. "I did. Taylor and I hit our stride and outpaced anyone who tried to catch up to us, or outshine our efforts."
"You are so competitive," Ana shampooed his hair as he knelt, facing her in the shower. "Behave or I'll get soap in your eyes."
"I am behaving," Christian shrugged. "I haven't pushed you against a wall or bent you over…" His hands quieted the squirms of her hips which responded to kisses from her navel to her hipbones.
"I admire your restraint," she taunted him; rinsing his hair clean.
He stood, turning her to face the bench in the shower. He activated that shower jet; lifting one of her legs to the bench. He planted wet kisses across her shoulders as his knees bent, and he entered her from behind. "I love this multi-jet shower. Hold on to the shower jet."
He applied body wash to his hands, washing her from her shoulders to her apex…spending quality time on washing her breasts and her apex. His slippery fingers separated her folds and he concentrated on rubbing her clit. She moaned as Christian increased the pace of his thrusts in addition to his fingering her and massaging her breasts.
Ana's head dropped back and she moaned, feeling herself quicken.
Christian concentrated on that sensitive little hollow below her ear before his hands clasped her hips. He thrust up hard, between her legs, sheathed in her hot wetness. He wrapped an arm around her waist and began lifting her off him before dropping her back on him.
Ana felt herself climax twice…quickly in a row before Christian impaled himself as deep into her as possible. He let out a deep groan…feeling himself throb while emptying himself into her. Groaning a little louder, he slipped out of her.
"I love you Ana," he whispered in her ear before concentrating on washing her, washing him, rubbing his soapy body all over her.
Ana finally reached for the handheld shower head with hose. She flipped the water jet on and began rinsing both of them off.
Christian turned the water off and stepped from the shower. He reached into the towel warmer and handed Ana a towel for her hair. He wrapped the next towel around his waist and took a third towel to dry her from head to toe. He wrapped the towel around her, and handed her the blow dryer.
"I'll pass, help me braid it. I'm starving…" Ana finished combing out her hair. Christian deftly braided it, fastening it with an available hair tie.
"I was starving," he nipped her shoulder. "Now I'm just in the mood for pancakes."
"I'll make breakfast if you gather all the dirty clothes, towels and bed linens. I can wash them at the sound."
~X~
José attended the new members breakfast for the Latino Chamber of Commerce. He socialized…refusing to wonder if Ana was cooking breakfast for guests and guns. He carried a small portfolio with him, to share pictures he had taken. He donated two of his framed pictures to the chamber for their Day of the Dead event on November third which included food, silent auction and street dance. He sent Kate an invitation to attend and possibly give them some free press.
~X~
Ana appreciated the shower and the dressing rooms at the pool house. The pool house, which covered the pool, resembled a greenhouse. Gia decorated the space around the pool with lots of potted ferns. The furniture was decorated in ocean blue and sand. Ana could pull on sweats; go to the pool house; change into a swimsuit and swim laps. The pool was available to staff who wanted to swim.
The nice thing about the covered pool was the pool stayed heated, clean and accessible at almost any hour of the day.
The bad thing about the pool was Kate's warning that it was sketchy to have sex in the pool. She pointed out the glass in the structure was not opaque. But then, Kate thought sex in oceans, rivers, hot tubs, etc. was sketchy. Funny how she never commented on hot sex in a hot shower with a hot man.
October 12
Christian and Ana went to Escala again for a Friday night play date. This time, Christian let Ana examine the room and its contents. Whatever she wanted to experience, he taught her. She tried the monoglove first, while Christian kissed her senseless. When she complained her fingertips felt numb, Christian removed it immediately.
"This is why I don't like mummy suits and similar bondage pieces. You can't see to know if circulation is impaired. It's too easy to be injured." Christian threw the monoglove in the trash. "But that reminds me I want to teach you bondage positions. If there are any which hurt, or stress your body or that you do not like, I want to know." Christian began with the prayer and reverse prayer positions. When she mastered a position, he introduced her to a new toy. Ana preferred the adjustable nipple clamps to the pinch alligator clips.
Christian taught her the box and reverse box arm positions. When she mastered those, he took her to the spanking bench. With her hands in the reverse box position, he helped her to get into position with her knees on the floor, her torso laying on the bench, and her arms unable to protect her ass as he spanked it. He alternated between a satin-covered paddle, a fur-covered paddle and a leather-covered paddle. She liked his sensual spankings and massaging her ass. She liked it even more when Christian included a spanking with the wa balls.
October 13
Christian and Ana discussed the complex on their way to Grey Sound. Ana researched putting a mini mart at the complex. For time crunch reasons, she suggested a triple-wide trailer unit, with a large outdoor deck where people could sit with coffee and a newspaper. The entrances had to be handicap accessible. She researched building a temporary 30x30 storage shed to hold stock for the mini-mart. She wanted separate bathrooms for both sexes and an office. A kitchenette was needed with microwaves and coffee pots. The aisles needed to be wide enough so handicapped vets could shop easily.
Mitch Black was assigned as the project manager. He worked with the new architects to develop a temporary plan for now. Within two years, the mini mart would become a permanent fixture. The architects understood retail shelving needs, refrigeration cases and coolers, in addition to a checkout counter and other store fixtures. The décor was easy – white paint, blue deck furniture, and red doors. Adrian vetted a warehouse manager to maintain the inventory and he hired two shopkeepers who had experience working for the State of Washington in various prison commissaries. The complex governing committee met with Ana several times to determine what would and would not be sold, and comparable pricing for the inventory.
Ana worked with complex governing committee to establish an Angel Tree in the lobby of the Intake Center. They discussed rules and guidelines, after talking with several churches and the Salvation Army about how they ran their Angel Trees. Ana had no problem donating a seven foot faux tree, tree stand, tree skirt, white lights, angel ornaments and purchasing Gwen-designed Angel Tree tags from a reputable printer.
October 19
"Happy four month anniversary!" Christian surprised Ana with a massage table for their pool house with a cabinet of massage oils, candles, towels and chocolates. He started their anniversary with shopping for lingerie and sex toys, and finished it with hot, steamy sex in their sauna which was included in the pool house build.
~X~
Anya's dads met up with Darius and Morse for an overnight trip to Darius's gold mining claim. Anya dropped them at the claim. There was space to park an SUV filled with men, camping equipment and Morse. Darius had cleared a spot for camping tents, built a fire pit, and had a rough map of the claim. Anya's dad set up camping tents while Anya started the firepit. They were roasting hot dogs for dinner, with all the trimmings. She made waffle cone s'mores from a Pinterest pin; wrapping them in foil for heating and eating.
Darius took Morse to walk the claim to ensure there were no washouts, landslides or treacherous terrain for their hike tomorrow. After a quick walkabout; the group prepped dinner. Morse enjoyed sitting between Anya and Darius, mooching roasted hot dogs from them. Anya left the men with their battery operated lanterns, propane heaters, tents and sleeping bags. They didn't have the best cell service until they went to higher ground. Anya would pick them up before dusk tomorrow.
Darius laid out the map and they discussed their schedule for tomorrow. Darius wanted to take them to the creek which ran through the property after breakfast. They could gold pan until lunch. After lunch they would have a hike and then break camp while waiting for Anya to pick them up. He showed them his mineral detectors, and the new gold-panning equipment he purchased for the claim.
October 26
"No playroom tonight," Christian warned Ana after a round of quick and hot sex in their shower before dressing for work. "I want to watch the sun set and rise over the sound."
Ana agreed. Normally she would wear jeans and a sweater for casual Fridays; but she planned to join Trisha and two authors. She put on a navy cashmere sweater dress, with coordinating underwear and tights. Navy suede ankle boots finished her ensemble. She put on Carla's silver locket from the wedding with small silver hoops.
Ana coordinated grocery delivery, with general cleaning and laundry at Grey Sound. She sent up a silent prayer of thanks for everyone who made her life easier.
~X~
Christian rolled out of bed, leaving a naked and sleeping Ana. He woke before his dreams became a full blown nightmare. He wrote a reminder to check on the Detroit brownfield site. He wrote a reminder to check on Elena's status. He didn't want his Mom to stress over Thanksgiving. Have HR arrange a flu shot clinic at Grey House and Grey Annex. Have Adrian vet a snow removal company for the winter at Grey Sound. Ensure Adrian sent payment for Charlie Tango to set down at the high school football field on Halloween. He asked Darius and Morse to go with them. It would be nice for them to see Ray and Bee. Since Halloween was on a Wednesday, Darius wanted to bring his girlfriend Anya with them. Christian emailed Adrian to ensure they had a background check on Anya and another one on José's new girlfriend, Aria. Before he went back to bed, Adrian emailed Aria and José were no longer seeing one another. He had a background check on her as one of Gwen's protégés, however. Adrian reminded him they had a background check on Anya as she was a third-year resident at SCH and worked with Grace. Taylor and Sawyer would fly out with them. Taylor would be their close protection detail and Sawyer would guard Charlie Tango.
Christian returned to the bed…watching Ana for a while before sleep claimed him. She was smiling from a dream. Her soft form was currently hidden by the sheets, but he knew every inch of it. He loved the smell and feel of her hair. He loved the little hollow below her ears. He loved her symmetrical form, and her breasts which perfectly fit his hand. She loved it when he took his time to love or to explore her body. Two years ago he would never have believed he would find the love of his life. In the beginning he might have been frightened by the power of his feelings for Ana. She taught him the true meaning and value of love and happiness. She was passionate in bed, meeting his ardor with her own. She offered herself to him in the playroom when they both needed a release away from world and work cares. Elena was wrong…so wrong. 'People like us don't do love.' He rarely heard Elena's voice in his head anymore. He thought perhaps it was because Ana filled that missing part of his soul, sharing her laughter and love.
October 31
Boo Bash was fun! Christian and Ana purchased six cases of canned meats, peanut butter, and shelf stable processed cheese for Boo Bash admission fees. Christian wore a tuxedo t-shirt and black jeans. Ana wore a Zombie t-shirt and black jeans. Darius wore his men-in-black tactical gear and Morse wore his black Kevlar vest and harness. Anya dressed in scrubs and brought her First Aid backpack with her. They met up with Ray and Bee, who wore a gunslinger and saloon girl costumes.
When there was time Ana and Bee discussed holiday events and roughed out a schedule. Ray sold projects for himself and vets this year through the website, so he didn't have inventory to support a three-day show at Thanksgiving. Bee and Ray agreed to go to Aspen with them. Rod was going to Seattle to spend Thanksgiving with José. They both volunteered to work at the WWC Intake Center to serve Thanksgiving meals to vets.
Kate and Elliot were supposed to attend a Halloween party hosted by Kavanagh Media. However, when Elliot saw Kate in the white fox fur jacket…his mind was on other things…naked Kate things…instead of attending a Halloween party. Elliot was a Neanderthal about that fur coat. Kate felt silly wearing silk panties and that jacket while eating delivery pizza and watching horror movies with Elliot. She refused to admit the silk lining of the fur coat felt very good against her skin. Kate was happy to send the jacket off to cold storage as quick as possible.
Everyone covered for Christian and Ana so they could attend Boo Bash. Ros and Gwen attended a costume party and fundraiser hosted at the Seattle Art Museum. Adrian and Andrea worked Safe Streets at the WSCC. Barney and his head engineer and his head tech researcher attended the Seattle Boys and Girls Club Halloween party. Grace and Carrick helped at the Halloween party for sick children at Seattle Children's Hospital. Mia served take and bake pizza with cold wine to Ethan who studied between watching pieces of a Supernatural marathon. Celeste and Eamon texted Kate to ask why they were not at the Kavanagh Media Halloween Bash. Kate sent them an email that Elliot was tired and not feeling well. She asked them to please not tell Grace because Elliot just wanted to lock the door and ignore the world.
November 3
Ana survived the holiday clothing delivery by Carolyn Acton by enlisting Gail to help her. They consulted the list of events sent her by Andrea, and determined what to keep and what to send back. Gail helped her pick half a dozen older dresses and accessories to donate to the Career Closet. She set out two weeks of work clothes to make it easier to get dressed in the mornings.
~X~
Kate dressed in an emerald green silk shirt with black jeans and a black denim jacket. She wore comfortable black leather ankle boots. José picked her up at eight for breakfast and coffee before they went to the Day of the Dead at the Latino Chamber of Commerce. José wore a burgundy Henley shirt and black jeans with boots.
José donated a sofa-sized framed photograph of Lake Sylvia and an 24x18 panorama shot of the Cascades to the silent auction. He and Kate walked around the flower vendors who offered lots of lovely marigolds in addition to various autumn colored mums. Brightly decorated skulls, candles, black ceramic candlesticks, paper dolls, fruit, specially baked breads, and hot chocolate mixes filled stalls. Kate and Jose went to the face painting booth. Kate had a red rose painted on one cheek, and Jose had a decorated skull painted on one of his.
After José took pictures for Kate to use with her Seattle Times article, they attended the street dance. It was fun to dance with José. He and Kate, along with half a dozen other couples danced to Smooth by Carlos Santana and Rob Thomas. They didn't miss a step, and laughed because it had been too long since they clubbed together.
Food trucks sold specialty Mexican dishes in addition to the usual tacos, quesadillas, enchiladas, chimichangas and tamales. One room of the chamber played Coco to entertain children. Another room played the opening sequence of Spectre to show the Day of the Dead parade. Kate purchased one of the paper dolls, and colored it in a pretty dress and apron to signify Carla. José purchased one and colored it with red hearts (to signify the red-hot cinnamon candies his mother loved) and a blue VW bug to signify Michaela. The vendor added them to the display altar.
"Your partner dances very well," half a dozen Latino beauties congratulated Kate while she stood in line at a vendor to get bottles of water for her and José.
"José really is a good dancer. His mom taught him how to dance salsa, merengue and cha-cha. We have been friends since college. I had to cover this event for my job; but José is a new member of the chamber. He donated those photographs for the silent auction." Kate pointed out the pictures. "José is single…" she hinted broadly to the ladies. "He's a project manager for Grey Construction."
The other single ladies in line called out to a very pretty, petite young woman. She wore a ruffled red shirt and black jeans. Kate instantly envied her waist length chocolate hair with cinnamon highlights. Her beautiful amber eyes widened with humor as half a dozen women accosted her. Sofia held up her hand to quiet Isabella, Camila, Daniela, Renata, and Emma.
"If you introduce me to your friend, José …I can introduce him to these ladies," Sofia teased them. "My cousins Dante and Diego work with José. Maybe all of you can plot and plan to get Dante, Diego and José to dance. I'm sure dancing with you ladies is more interesting than discussing work or sports." Sofia teased them again.
"I'll introduce you, on one condition… José is my dance partner for every Santana song played at the street dance." Kate bargained and the ladies accepted. She sent up a prayer that Michaela would guide her stubborn yet handsome son into the arms of a woman who would be good for him. She liked the easy manners of Sofia. Would it be expecting too much to have her as a future friend?
~X~
Elliot passed on attending the Day of the Dead with Kate and José. WWC was one week away from opening the men's dormitory. Double-paned windows went in this week. Today was a walkthrough of the facility – checking everything with the inspector to ensure they opened on time. Extra-long twin beds had been constructed for 200 men. A two-shelf storage cabinet (40 wide by 24 deep by 72 tall) was assembled for each of the men and located between each twin bed. 200 locks, with keys, waited on the top shelf of each cabinet. Sheets, blanket, pillowcase and pillow rested at the foot of each bed. Two towels, two hand towels, and two washcloths joined the sheets along with a new laundry bag and a package of twelve tube hangers. A prepackaged toiletries kit for men joined a dopp kit on the bed also.
When the men started arriving the afternoon of November tenth, they would be assigned a bed, given a new set of sweats, a package each of t-shirts, underwear and socks along with a gallon Ziploc bag holding a permanent marker for marking possessions, a haircut chit from Quick Cuts, ecards for metro area transit, a pack of stationery with five stamps and two pens, a $10 Starbucks card, a $10 McDonalds card and a half roll of quarters for the men to do their laundry.
November 10
"Ladies, gentlemen, patrons and invited guests…welcome to the Washington Warriors Complex. Today we are conducting the Grand Opening for the male veterans dormitory. We have space for 200 men. We are more than a homeless shelter…we're offering veterans a chance to establish themselves physically, emotionally and financially. The building has a cafeteria to feed 250 people three times a day, in addition to laundry facilities, recreational facilities, and a gym." The president of the local VFW addressed the crowd.
"We are pleased to announce that we are also conducting a Grand Opening of our Lambert Supply Depot. The Lambert Supply Depot is named after Frank Lambert, a fallen Marine, who is the biological father of one of our patrons, Anastasia Grey. While our mini-mart for the complex is in a temporary location and in temporary housing; we anticipate a permanent facility by the time we complete the complex. The Lambert Supply Depot is giving away red, white or blue balloons and coffee, tea or hot chocolate with handheld apple pie pastries. The depot carries clothes, writing supplies, reading materials, toiletries, food and nonalcoholic beverages at competitive prices." Elliot addressed the crowd.
"The Grand Opening for our single female veterans dormitory is March 30, 2013, the Saturday before Easter. It will hold 200 women. Our next project is the creation of a track and field facility. It will include a gym, swimming pool, running track and green outdoor recreation space. It will be completed by Memorial Day Weekend 2013. We have begun refurbishing two industrial buildings as housing units for vets and their families. We want to have a Grand Opening for the housing units by Labor Day 2013." The president of the local American Legion shared the podium.
"The cafeteria in our men's dormitory is open and serving a fundraising BBQ prepared by Rory's Roadkill, which is in the cul-de-sac before the main entrance to our complex. Proceeds from today's BBQ will supply Thanksgiving meals for our vets." The president of the local Vietnam Vets organization addressed the crowd.
"Please feel free to visit our Intake Center. Our staff provides medical, dental, vision and hearing screening for vets and their families. We provide mental assessments, especially since PTSD is so prevalent among our veterans. We provide knowledge, skills and abilities testing to help our vets find gainful employment. We have an excellent legal team which helps our vets with any questions regarding their benefits, Medicare, and social services." The VFW president spoke again.
"Northwest Hospital is conducting a donations-funded flu shot clinic onsite. Please feel free to patronize them. If you visit our Intake Center; please patronize our Angel Tree. Located in the lobby, the Angel Tree is seven feet tall with white lights, angel ornaments and angel tags. Each tag represents a single veteran and lists their needs. Many men request a new set of clothes, shoes, or a warm winter coat. We hope all our tags are selected by December first. Wrapped and tagged presents should be delivered to the intake office by December twentieth." The American Legion president urged the crowd to participate.
~X~
"Gentlemen," Elliot addressed Darius and Dr. Banfield. "I'm worried about your living accommodations. Seattle isn't like Las Vegas. It's gets cold here. I don't want your pipes freezing. I'm offering both of you the empty temporary warehouse by the Lambert Supply Depot. It's large enough to hold both your trailers and your vehicles. It has running water, electricity and heat. It has skylights so you aren't living in the dark. We housed large machinery in it; but we moved the machinery back to Grey Construction until spring. I would appreciate if you both relocated there today, after the crowd leaves." He offered both of them garage door openers and keys to access the warehouse. "If you get tired of your own cooking; you can purchase meals at the men's dormitory. Rory's Roadkill is up the road where you can play pool, get a cold beer, or a hot meal."
Darius bought BBQ for six and stored it in his refrigerator. He and Morse had things to do for the next couple days.
~X~
"Happy Anniversary," Christian gave Ana a Me and You charm for her charm bracelet.
Ana was about to protest when she realized it was a year since they were together for the first time.
"Why did you wait…to have sex?" Christian asked.
"I blamed it on reading Austen and Bronte; but it was more than that. I knew from Kate and Carla about the physicality of sex. I heard sex, love, like and breakup discussions among girlfriends and classmates. Until I met you…I was like Lizzy Bennet waiting to fall in love. When I shook your hand…I felt that current between us…and I could not forget it. I tried to dismiss what I was feeling for you…but once I stopped thinking about everything occurring in my life…and being proactive to defend myself…once I allowed myself to feel…I realized I wanted to be with you."
"For which I am extremely grateful," Christian kissed her hair.
"I'm glad you still wanted me after it took so long for my brain to shut up and my heart to open up. How do you feel about an online shopping spree with me as your first anniversary gift?" Ana asked.
"Pretty lingerie…good smelling perfume…new sex toys?" He raised his eyebrows lasciviously.
"You read my mind," Ana kissed his jawline. She liked when he had a few days scruff on his face.
November 11
Darius and Morse began at the outer perimeter of WWC and worked their way inward. Darius spent six hours with his metal detector, walking grids. He found two St. Christopher medals, $5.75, a gold wedding ring, three dog tags, and two key chains. He planned to turn everything but the money into lost and found at the Intake Center. He and Morse visited the men's dormitory and ate dinner with them. Tonight's meal was chicken and noodles with green salad, mixed vegetables, hot biscuits and butter, and berry Jello. Several of the men talked to Darius about acquiring a PTSD service dog. He explained the cost to breed, raise and train a service dog was $20K. He explained it might be easier to adopt service dogs who were being retired, like Morse.
In the meantime, Darius planned to discuss getting combat earmuffs for the men when Seattle and its surrounds set off fireworks. The new year was fast approaching. He would talk to Taylor and Elliot Grey about this extra set of needs for the men.
November 21
Bee seemed a little tired when the Grey House jet took off for Aspen. Ray explained they spent two days inventorying and rearranging the food bank at the American Legion after Boo Bash. She had been working with Darius and the governing council at WWC to enlarge the Seattle Second Servings project. Seattle Second Servings collected food left over from banquets and buffets at the hotels and event centers of Seattle. They distributed the food to shelters and hopefully now to the dormitories at WWC.
The Northwest Food Bank was overrun with excessive apple harvests from pick your own sites. The Northwest Food Bank helped WWC create the menu for Thanksgiving Day at WWC. Thirty 25-lb. turkeys had been donated. Northwest Food Bank donated 100 pounds of potatoes, 100 pounds of carrots, and 20 pounds of onions. Ten bakeries donated nine dozen rolls or a dozen pumpkin pies. The remainder of needs to feed the men on Thanksgiving was donated by the Seattle American Legion, VFW, and Vietnam Veterans.
The Grey House jet headed to Aspen with a full load. Christian and Ana, Elliot and Kate, Mia and Ethan, Eamon and Celeste, Carrick and Grace, Theo and Frannie, Bee and Ray, Jason and Gail and Sophie along with six close protection detail filled the plane. Grace helped Natalia provide snacks and libations for the crowd. Everyone gathered around to play cards, or watch one of the movies which Christian arranged to have shown during the flight.
November 22 – 25
Thanksgiving in Aspen was skiing day for those who skied. Ana, Bee and Grandma Frannie with help from the Aspen house staff created a turkey feast for thirty people. Dinner conversation centered around what to do for Christmas. Christian asked everyone to forgo presents for one another and help buy supplies for the 200 single male vets at WWC. Ana believed all the tags would be taken from the Angel Tree. She asked each person to put $100 in the pot to pay for stuffed backpacks for every man at the dormitory.
Darius and Morse put on their best camo outfits and went to Seattle Children's Hospital. They visited all the children, and allowed them to pet or hug Morse. They joined Anya and her dads in the hospital cafeteria for Thanksgiving lunch. Anya's dads volunteered to be on call so coworkers with children could have the day off. Anya volunteered to work the Emergency Room. Anya's sister Amy joined them for lunch. She was busy studying and catching up on laundry. She enjoyed meeting Darius and Morse. She offered to make soup and sandwiches for dinner for all of them. The cafeteria offered turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, cranberry sauce, three kinds of vegetables, and pumpkin pie squares with whipped cream. Darius paid for a double portion of turkey for himself and Morse.
Saturday, December 1
"Bless me Father, for I have sinned." Darius sat quietly in the confession booth. It was six a.m. The church slowly filled with people who attended mass either before starting or ending their day. It was difficult to leave Morse with Taylor, but Darius could not bring him. "It has been almost three years since my last confession. I confessed that day Father, because I was on my way to becoming a druggie or a drunk because I was in physical pain. I asked God to led me to a better way of life. He did. I have had a good life since my recovery from the IED which wounded me, wounded friends, and killed friends." Darius took a deep breath. "Father, do I have your guarantee that what I reveal in this confessional will not be shared with anyone?"
"You know the sanctity of the confessional son. Unless you reveal you plan to assassinate someone; I will never share your secrets."
"May sixth; as I was working on my gold mining claim in Clark County, Nevada, I found a briefcase full of cash."
"Did you turn it over to the police?" Father Frank Finley asked.
"No…I lived in a motel. When the owner found drug money; she turned it over to the police. It took her a year to get half of it back, and several times she had to provide free housing to a police unit watching the place for other drug dealers. When I opened the briefcase, I realized it wasn't drug money – someone's gambling winnings were on top of the rest of the cash in the briefcase. I thought it was someone's gambling stake. I found out it wasn't. You need to read this." He passed the printout of Elizabeth Morgan to the priest and waited for him to read it.
The priest passed it back to Darius. "How can I be of assistance son?"
"I have seven boxes: twenty inches long by five inches tall by seven and a half inches wide. Each box contains a quarter of a million dollars, wrapped up like a Christmas gift. Per her family's request, I have selected seven non-profit agencies to receive this windfall. Each box is labeled. I need you to deliver the funds to the agencies. I cannot do it; I cannot take the risk of exposure."
"Who are the seven nonprofits?" Father Finley asked.
"Seattle Council of Catholic Women…" Darius began to list them.
"Is that so you know I will distribute the gifts?" Father Finley chuckled.
"Three words – Randolph Family Center." Darius responded.
"Acceptable. Please continue," Father Finley suggested.
"King County Crime Victim and Trauma Services – because of the nature of the lawsuit. Night Lights – a charity to end prostitution. Safe Nest – temporary assistance for domestic violence victims. Northwest Food Bank – feeding homeless and needy families. Washington Warriors – to provide resources for female veterans. Women's Resource Medical Center – health and addiction issues, women's sexual health issues, and rape and domestic violence counseling." Darius slid the card with the list to Father Finley. "I have a Santa sack with the seven labeled boxes. How do I give it to you?"
Father Finley slid a panel open at Darius's feet. "Slide it through the panel. I will close the panel and give you penance for not confessing your sins for three years. We will share a quick prayer. I will bless you for helping those you could help, and I will send you on your way. I will make time this week to deliver the packages."
"Thank you Father Finley." Darius kept a quarter of a million for himself and Morse; but he was sure the priest understood.
~X~
Three weeks since the opening of the men's dormitory; the men were settling into a routine. Each Saturday morning they traded dirty bed and bath linens for a clean set. Before noon, all beds had been remade, the dormitory cleaned, bathrooms cleaned, and the men gathered in the cafeteria for lunch. Many of them clustered in small groups to play cards or board games after lunch. Several of them gathered in groups to address donated packages of Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanza cards to occupants of the Walter Reed Hospital.
Several men went to the Vets Home and the VA Medical Center to visit hospitalized vets, hoping to keep up their spirits. Several men volunteered for an ex-military suicide hotline. It was the goal of WWC to decrease the numbers of vets who committed suicide. WWC had rules, and gambling, drinking and drugs were the top three reasons for being banned from the dormitory and complex. The next two reasons were theft and conduct non-becoming a vet who served his country.
~X~
Christian and Ana hired the holiday décor company to establish Christmas trees and decorations at both Escala and the sound. Ana started searching for blue or silver-grey Christmas ornaments for both trees in October. She visited eBay for vintage ornaments. She visited Etsy stores for handmade ornaments. She purchased two blue velvet Christmas tree skirts which had hand embroidered silver stars. She found blue velvet Christmas stockings. The woman who purchased her mother's Etsy store created beautiful silver icicles from vintage silver cutlery. Ana purchased a dozen different icicles for each of her trees. She purchased special Christmas ornaments for Kate, Gwen and her coworkers at Grey Publishing.
~X~
The State Department met with the Washington Attorney General's office the week after Thanksgiving. Elena Lincoln was still missing. The Washington Attorney General had orders to liquidate Elena Lincoln's holdings. The funds would be held in Washington State's Unclaimed Assets until Elena was found; or until seven years passed and she could be legally declared dead. Her four salons and spas were purchased by four different entities. Her clothing was donated to charity. Her jewelry was sent to an auction house to be sold. Her household furnishings were sold. Her cars and home were sold. Her bank accounts were seized. Once the Washington Attorney General's Office was finished; almost six million dollars lingered in an account which would never be claimed.
Franco de Luca and four dozen employees of the Esclava Salons and Spas found themselves seeking jobs at the holidays. Franco burned one picture of Elena every night for two weeks before he found gainful employment working at the Bravern Center Salon, which was now owned by Aveda, Inc.
December 7
********Seattle Nooz********
Remember Pearl Harbor! Washington Warriors Complex received an anonymous donation of a quarter of a million dollars. They say 'thank you' to their anonymous benefactor. Washington Warriors explained these funds are designated to help stock and open the female veterans dormitory.
Christian and Anastasia Steele donated funds to WWC to open the Lambert Supply Depot in remembrance of Frank Lambert, a fallen Marine, who is Mrs. Grey's biological father. The supply depot is a temporary mini-mart located in a triple wide trailer on the WWC grounds. The depot offers regular mini-mart goods except alcohol and tobacco.
The WWC Intake Center opened Labor Day Weekend. The WWC Men's Dormitory for Veterans opened November 10, the Marine Corps birthday. The dormitory is full. Veterans are encouraged to utilize the WWC Intake Center. The Center offers medical, legal, and financial advice for veterans in addition to teaching work skills.
If you are feeling charitable…the WWC Intake Center is hosting an Angel Tree in the lobby of the Intake Center. It has names and wish lists for veterans. Tags are available until December 15, with wrapped presents returned to the Intake Center by December 20. Presents will be delivered to veterans (no age limit, no length of service limit, financial situation applies) by December 25. Gift giving limit is $50-75 for clothes, hand-held electronics (MP3 players, games), toiletries, etc.
********Seattle Nooz********
December 18
Ana's soft moans and inadvertent wiggles and sighs kept Christian in a state of anticipation as well as Ana. She enjoyed the tiny bite of pain which accompanied more pleasure than she believed possible. He vowed he would never spank her for punishment…she loved when he used the ben wa balls and a slow sensual spanking with lots of massaging and touching. Today when he finished administering thirty swats to her ass and apex…she begged for three more swats and came on the third swat. He quickly removed the ben wa balls and entered her.
Ana was face down on the platform of the sex swing, her arms and legs fastened spread eagle to the corners of the platform. It was a non-stress position which she enjoyed as Christian began moving the platform. Occasionally he spanked or fondled her ass, and occasionally he tugged on her ponytail. It was an extreme session for them…releasing angst and worry. When they were both sated, he carried her to the large soaker tub and enjoyed the jasmine bubbles.
Lying in bed, cuddling his wife…Christian remembered the first time he spanked her. Her long legs stretched out on the couch; her breasts tucked between his legs; her arms were crossed and she laid her head on them. He had a slow and steady rhythm, with gentle spanks followed by fondling her ass. It was an intense experience for her. Ana expressed afterwards that she was surprised to be so turned on by his hands on her ass. He spanked her that night until her ass resembled the rosy color of her lips. Once they were both turned on, he bent her over the arm of the couch for a quick sexual release for both of them.
Christian was loquacious that day…telling her how beautiful her pink ass was…and how it turned him on. He was determined to do that again, only with a bullet or egg vibrator in her to make her squirm even more. He loved washing her body after they had sex. He loved drying her off, applying arnica lotion to her still pink ass, and dressing her in a pretty teddy for bed. Before his nether regions woke to enjoy the charms of his wife again…Christian fell asleep, spooning a soft and sleeping Ana.
~X~
Ana gave Christian three gifts for their six-month anniversary…a new grey cashmere sweater, a set of black silk boxers, pajamas, sleep pants and robe, and a footlocker stored in their walk-in closet at Grey Sound pa. It contained a Sportsheets neck and wrist restraint. It contained an under-the-bed restraint system, flogger, handcuffs, blindfolds and other fun items.
Christian gave Ana a black and grey diamond and platinum collar only to be worn in the playroom. He gave her a set of three sex pillows – half moon, wedge and ramp, and a red leather curved yoga and chaise lounge for the playroom.
December 19
Darius and Morse looked forward to their Wednesday night date with Anya. He hadn't planned anything special…just a take and bake lasagna, green salad, and two large individual servings of tiramisu. Anya didn't drink very much so he just bought some Italian Roast coffee instead of wine. She had been a good sport about her boyfriend living in a trailer inside an empty warehouse. She understood he was trying to establish himself.
In his spare time since the first of December, Darius worked on a business plan. He had been trained to handle an explosives detection dog. Morse had been trained to be an explosives detection dog. He and Morse took cadaver training. Darius needed property where he could build kennels and dog runs. He needed a papered female German Shepherd, and she needed to be less than three months old. Once he trained her to do what Morse did, he could start breeding puppies, and training them.
He could check the backgrounds on the men at the dormitory. A trained handler and dog would be an asset to his company. He played around with names…but kept coming back to Miles to Go. Darius ordered a dozen books from Amazon about training scent dogs, training SAR dogs, and training service dogs. He ordered a couple books on how to develop a business plan. He would talk to Bee, and to the dog handlers at Pendleton. He still had a quarter of a million to get himself started…and with a backer like Christian and Ana Grey, this could be the career choice of his life.
December 21 and 22
Ana ensured all the tags were taken from the Angel Tree, and that all the gifts were returned, wrapped and tagged. The afternoon of December 24 the tree would be disassembled and moved to the cafeteria of the men's dormitory. Presents would be tucked around the tree to be distributed at the breakfast buffet Christmas morning. December third Ana enlisted Darius's help to determine what to give to the vets. He explained the need for combat earmuffs. He helped Ana bulk order a deck of cards, water bottle, personal toiletries kit, stocking cap, gloves, combat earmuffs, and a backpack for each man. Ana ordered enough supplies for 210 backpacks. She planned to give one to Darius, one to Banfield, in addition to giving eight to Ray and Bee to give to vets in need in Montesano. Kate, Ana and Mia wrote individual last names on name tags to attach to the backpacks.
Ana hosted a stuffing party on December twenty-second. Security set up tables in the family room at the sound. Everyone who could help that night did. Adrian's security teams, Andrea and the executive floor PAs, Trisha and Hannah from Grey Publishing, the Grey and Trevelyan family, Ray and Bee, the Rodriguez men, and Darius and Anya. Ana understood why Grace appreciated Anya. She seemed a level headed and kind.
Gail ordered two dozen pizzas, tossed a big seven vegetable salad with Italian dressing, offered cold libations (wine and nonalcoholic drinks) and eight dozen Italian Lemon Ricotta cookies. Adrian's men loaded Grey Security SUVs with Christmas backpacks to deliver to the men's dormitory tomorrow.
Ana's last minute Christmas shopping was done…except for the fixings to bake Christmas cookies. She had a yen to bake about ten dozen cookies and make six different kinds of Christmas bark. Gail helped her assemble menus and grocery lists for their week in Aspen. She offered to make treats with Ana over the Christmas holiday. She suggested they make one kind of cookie and one kind of Christmas bark each day of their vacation.
Christmas
"Merry Christmas," Christian murmured as his lips slowly kissed down Ana's neck. His warm hand spanned her belly and slid across to cup her hip. "You are so pretty when you smile in your sleep. I opened our drapes to look out on the mountain…it snowed last night and everything is a glistening, pristine white." His tender kisses moved from her lips to her cheek, and downward to that hollow beneath her ear to her collarbone to her shoulder. Christian rolled her from a spooning position to her back; his lips capturing hers again.
Ana could see him easily in the light reflected from the moon on the new snow. His hands slid across her cheeks, his thumbs resting before her ears, and his hands wrapping around the nape of her neck. Her sleepy eyes tracked his beautiful face. She closed her eyes as his lips sought hers again. She enjoyed the rasp of his stubbly jaw as he worked his way from her lips to her forehead. His nose sniffed her hair as his cheek caressed her hair. His lips were almost at her ear. "Come on lazybones…we barely have time for a shower and dressing before everyone will be awake for breakfast."
Ana sent up a prayer for Bob who was spending Christmas with his sisters. He mailed Ana an amethyst jewelry set he gave her mother for their first Valentine's Day together. Heart shaped stud earrings, with a heart pendant with platinum settings. She sent Bob a large hamper of Omaha Steaks and two bottles of Sancerre to his youngest sister's home. She sent up a prayer of thanks because the veterans had a warm place to sleep, good food to eat, and a present to open. She hoped the season would not be depressing for them. Ana sent up a prayer of thanks for everyone, especially Gail Jones, who made her life easier.
The Aspen staff decorated a tree in the main room with white lights, gold ornaments and chocolate velvet garland. The tree skirt was crazy quilted satin and velvet pieces in white, gold and chocolate. Low volume Christmas carols were broadcast through the main level. Christmas breakfast was French Toast Casserole, a tossed fruit salad, bacon, and coffee, tea or hot chocolate. Christmas dinner would be standing rib roast with au jus or horseradish relish, baked fingerling potatoes with sour cream and chives, Cesar salad, whole green beans, asparagus, honey wheat rolls with butter, and a sheet cake pan of cherry topped cheesecake.
The rules for gift-giving this year was you could buy for your spouse or significant other. Otherwise, everyone's Christmas funds were to go to making Christmas or life better for someone else. Christian and Ana bought the filled backpacks for the vets at WWC. Elliot and Kate donated to the Mammogram Van. Carrick and Grace, Theo and Frannie, and Celeste and Eamon donated to Catholic Community Services of Western Nevada. Mia and Ethan donated to the Food Bank on UDub's campus. Ray and Bee donated to the scholarship program at the American Legion in Montesano.
~X~
José and Rod were invited to the Gonzales family Christmas. Midnight mass was followed by a large breakfast buffet, gag gifts and lots of laughter. They left before seven and went to WWC to help serve Christmas meals to the men in the dormitory. Rod kept his counsel, but he thought Sofia Gonzales would be an excellent partner for José. She attended UDub, taking forensics classes. She was an excellent artist…able to recreate pictures of the deceased from a skull. She drew excellent crime scenes and courtroom scenes.
New Year's Day 2013
'I'm going to be so late!' Ana ran as fast as possible in her high heels. She should have chosen a dress she could run in, not a sheath dress with limited movement. She entered her destination at the last minute…all arms and legs and flying hair. She skidded to stop and quietly walked to the first row of chairs and took a seat.
Ana looked around, searching for Christian. 'Huh uh, buddy, this isn't how it's going to be. It's you and me, remember, there for the big events, the small moments and the long haul.'
Her phone vibrated during the opening prayer. She waited to open it until the prayer concluded.
'On your six, baby," Christian texted.
Before the judge could begin, Christian took the seat next to Ana. He clasped her left hand in his, and laid his right arm along the back of her chair.
'Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to join this man and this woman,' the judge indicated Ray and Bee. 'And this man and this woman,' he indicated Darius and Anya.
Ana awoke, startled. 'I hope that was foreshadowing…' She lay there for a moment not falling back asleep. Not even Christian's rhythmic breathing put her to sleep. 'Count your blessings,' she sort of hummed from the movie White Christmas.
Christian…Ray and Bee…Bob…Kate and Elliot…Mia and Ethan...Grace and Carrick …Theo and Frannie...Christian's aunts and uncles…Celeste and Eamon…Gwen and Ros… Darius and Morse...Adrian, Andrea and Asher...Hannah...Claire… JoBeth …Mary Jane...Tricia...Jerry...José and Rod… Gail and Taylor...Sawyer…Prescott...Reynolds…Ryan…'
Ana's overthinking brain shut down, and restful sleep carried her into the New Year.