Here is another chapter for you, hope you enjoy.
As always I own nothing. All characters belong To E.L James.
Huge thanks to my wonderful beta for adding humour and life to this story.
Anastasia POV
Saturday 18 May 2019
Lying in bed in the early hours of Saturday morning, Hippo is snuggled next to me. God, I love my cat, and so does everyone else, he quickly is becoming quite the spoiled brat. I know Christian has warmed up to him too, although he desperately tries to hide that fact. What the entire household has discovered, not in the most pleasant of ways, is that Hippo is possessive and doesn't like to share. He behaves well when I'm not home, but the moment he knows I'm there, the little fur devil won't let anyone come close to me. Christian got bitten a few times when he sat or stood too close. My precious very own guard cat.
Christian. I'm surprised that I got any sleep at all after our little heart to heart yesterday evening. Jesus the man has a serious warped understanding of BDSM, but it's understandable considering the age which he was introduced into it. To endure what he did at fifteen and extract some good from it, to learn self-control and determination to be better, is admirable. But as there's always two sides to every coin, and I can only wonder what his flip side holds. It's obvious the control and stoicism benefited him, what with his stone-cold CEO persona, but I've come to discover it's just a façade. Take him out of the business setting, and he's a bumbling idiot. No wonder the man is so antisocial, he simply lacks those skills.
When he told me about his introduction to the lifestyle, "I was brought to the scene through an older friend, first as a submissive, then at twenty-one, I became a Dominant", it was easy to put two and two together. It's blatantly obvious why Mrs. Lincoln behaves like a jealous lover. It's because she is. And this is his mother's best friend.
Fuck, that's just sick.
This also explains Christian's behaviour toward his Contracted Submissives. He was most likely trained that way. Like Pavlov's dog, he was conditioned to treat his relations within a strict guideline, subconsciously following her lead in personal matters even after their affair ended. And while he really spread his wings professionally, it's Mrs. Lincoln that pulls the strings to his personal interactions. The way I see it, she might as well put a collar on Christian and lead him around on a leash after office hours. It's like I have my own Manchurian Candidate and I shudder at the thought. Although his male relatives are aware of his proclivities, I highly doubt they know it was Mrs Lincoln who seduced him to it. Oh, to be a fly on the wall when that shit hits the fan. Talk about skeletons in the closet, it can't get bigger than this.
I'm positive now that the asshole lied to me. I know Christian sold me out to the Pedo bitch, the spineless knob. His only saving grace is the fact that he, wisely, kept his trap shut about why I'm participating in this charade. I can only hope to God, he doesn't jeopardize my fathers' legacy spilling damning information just so he can placate that woman. What she is capable of doing when provoked is anyone's guess.
I exhale and scratch Hippo's warm belly gently. I need to get these thoughts out of my mind. The worry is turning my stomach in knots. I can't keep thinking about this or I'll give myself an ulcer before I'm twenty. I can see Mrs Lincoln's hold on Christian like graffiti on a wall and from the looks of it, I'm the only one that figured it out. I'd bet my inheritance his family has no clue about their BDSM relationship, past or indirect present.
Maybe his family is just too close and can't see the forest from the trees. How does a paediatrician and a lawyer not notice what was happening right under their nose? I can't believe it's because they didn't care. Carrick Grey wouldn't go through this acrobatic dance to save his son if his family didn't care. Were they too engrossed in balancing domesticity and career that could've blinded them, or is simply because Mrs. Lincoln is so crafty she's able to pull the wool over everyone's eyes? If it's the latter, then by God, that's some masterful Machiavellian manipulation and devious duplicity.
STOP! Fuck. Stop thinking about this Ana. Christian is his own man, and it is not my place to save him, nor open his eyes to that cruel reality. I need to focus. I have a big day ahead and I need to get up and start to prepare my own shit.
With herculean effort I manage to drag myself into the shower and by nine a.m. venture to the kitchen to make myself some breakfast. To my surprise, and annoyance, Christian is in there too wearing a T-shirt and basketball shorts, like he's fresh from a morning workout, getting himself a coffee.
By God, that man looks fine.
It should be illegal to look this good after a workout. I almost picture myself dragging him into the shower to do some wicked things. I imagine his manhood to as deliciously equal to his body. Then, I recall Mrs. Lincoln and Susannah, and those two are like ice water to my libido. While Christian is still sinfully attractive, knowing the type of women he's been with, I wouldn't touch him with a ten-foot pole. I almost snort at myself. I must be so sleep deprived and stressed to the limit that my brain is malfunctioning dreaming up scenarios that will never be realised. Not in this lifetime anyway.
But there is no crime in dreaming, right?
I dread being around Christian today. I'll have to go out there and feign normalcy after last night's sharing, and I'm hoping our morning won't be awkward. The old adage of 'curiosity killed the cat', exists for a reason. I just hope I'm not the cat, and Christian wasn't too put off with what I can now perceive as prying. Note to self, if you're not prepared to hear the answers, don't ask the questions.
Announcing myself, I move closer to the kitchen. Well, here's going for broke.
''Morning. Are you in charge of making breakfast since Mrs. Jones is off?''
He snorts and turns his attention from the coffee machine to me.
''Hardly. Making a cup of coffee is the limit to my culinary expertise. There's only two ways to get food while Gail is away. One, we can go out, or two, if you're adept at the art, you can give it a go.'' He smiles with a raised brow, and I feel relieved. Obviously, he didn't take any offence from my inquiries if he's daring me. Game on Mr. Grey.
''Pfft. I wouldn't consider myself in par with Gail's expertise, but I'm sure I can manage a simple breakfast.'' I say making my way to the fridge. For some reason Christian looks surprised.
''What? I'm an independent woman Mr Grey. In the short time we've come to know each other, I'm sure you've come to understand that I'm not one of those princesses that are afraid to damage their manicure with a simple domestic task. And it's really satisfying to know that you aren't as perfect and accomplished as you seem.'' This makes him laugh. Oh, thank god. It's humorous Christian this morning.
''I'm far from perfect, Ms. Steele. And you've seen more of my imperfections than most. So," he claps his hands and starts rubbing them excitedly, "what are we having for breakfast?''
''What do you mean, 'we'? Did I say anything about cooking for you too?'' I see his face fall. Shit! OK. He's not ready for teasing yet. ''I'm just pulling your leg Grey. I won't let you starve. I'm not that much of a bitch. I'm thinking toast with tomato-avocado salsa and poached eggs. How's that sound?'' His face lights up with a heart stopping smile once again. He sure is one mercurial individual. Who would have thought that Christian would get this excited over a home cooked breakfast.
''I've never been a fussy eater, so whatever food you give me, will be fine, and your choice sounds fantastic.''
''Could you set the table and sort the drinks out then, please.'' Christian hesitates only a moment before getting up and performing the everyday domestic chore. I suspect he's never had to set the table for anyone in his own home, but fuck if I'm going to start cooking and serving the man too. That's a precedent I will not set for myself.
I gather all the ingredients from the fridge and am about to start when I hear the elevator ding. Who could it be this early on a Saturday? Oh Christ, please, please, please don't let it be the Pedo Bitch. I know I won' be responsible for my actions if it is her.
''Morning people! Good to see you awake.''
Oh, thank fuck, it's Elliot.
In usual Elliot fashion he glides up to me, picks me up into a bear hug and gives a sloppy wet kiss on the cheek as a bonus. GAH! Once I'm elegantly plopped back on my feet, the big oaf grabs Christian in a headlock messing up his already unruly hair. God, I love Elliot. I'm giggling like a loon appreciating the unique personality that is distinctly Elliot. It really is too bad he has a whoring reputation. I think he'd be perfect for Kate.
''Would you get the fuck off me Elliot before kick your sorry ass.'' Christian grumbles when he finally let's him go.
''Why the fuck are you here? Ana did you invite him?"
''Relax, baby bro. I come in peace and of my own free will. I figured since I eat at mom and dad's most days, today I'd make the exception. Besides, that house is a circus at the moment, and even I'm not that desperate for food to be stepping into that ring.''
''Great. So, in your infinite wisdom you decide to raid my kitchen for food?'' Christian states with a smirk.
''I'm truly and deeply offended Christian. You know it's never just for food. I love your high-end alcohol choices too, but right now, I actually wanted to take you two out for breakfast since I know Gail is off.''
''That's very thoughtful Elliot. Thank you, but I was just about to start making us some breakfast. You're welcome to stay.'' This earns me an icy glare from Christian and the most charming smile from his big brother. They should seriously put Elliot on some toothpaste commercial, that smile is dazzling. No wonder he is so successful with the ladies.
''And she's a gracious hostess to boot. Thank you, Ana. At least there's one person with manners in this house. She has manners AND can cook. This just keeps getting better and better'' I shrug with a smile.
''Fuck I hate you Christian! Anastasia, what would it take for you to dump his grumpy and unsocial ass and run away with me?'' He says pointing at Christian and once again I'm in stiches. This sibling banter is great fun.
''Watch it, big brother. Twenty storeys will be one unpleasant flight once I toss you off the balcony.'' Christian growls but it is evident that he is not really mad, just amused.
Hearing all the ruckus in the kitchen, Hippo decides to join us most likely to assess the new visitor. Elliot jumps almost three feet in the air when he sees my little buddy.
''Holy Fuck! What is that?"
"That", says Christian, "is Hippo. Named appropriately after Bulgakov's character Begemot, Russian for hippopotamus. According to Ana, Hippo is the Devil's own side kick, and Hippo here takes his name seriously.
"Christian, you pussy, you got her that kitty after all, but why'd you pick this one? And when did you start reading Russian novels? Fuck, this cat is beastly looking, a real Devil's spawn if you ask me. Christian, couldn't you find one that's cute and cuddly?"
''HEY! Watch it mister. Don't start dissing the Hippo. If you treasure your life, all insults against my kitten will stop immediately!''
''See Ana! I'm not the only one who thinks Hippo's scary. God help you Elliot, if you happen to stumble into him in the dark. That cat can put the fear of God in you like no other; well, except Grandpa Theo, but that's a completely different kind of fear.''
''Ah. Excuse you. This is my cat you two are going on about, and I would advise you both to be nice. If not, you can make your own breakfast. No one offends my little guy and not face the consequences.'' I look pointedly at both men to let them know I'm not kidding, and grinningly they simultaneously raise their hands in surrender.
''Good.'' Idiots.
Breakfast turned out great if I do say so myself. The atmosphere was light with idle chit chat and some gentle ribbing until Christian gets a message and groans after reading it.
''Looks like Gramps and dad decided jump ship too and are on their way here. Why do I feel like Quasimodo? Sanctuary! Sanctuary!''
''Is it really that crazy preparing for this ball?'' I ask
''Oh, fuck, you have no idea. The backyard is full of people, caterers, event planners and their decorating crews, the tent crew, florists. It's fucking nuts. Every year Mom goes all out and is on pins and needles the whole time. God help you if you somehow get underfoot. Then, once all that's done, teams of beauticians descend upon mom, Mia and grandma. It's Hell.'' Elliot fires out quickly and Christian nods in confirmation.
''And you decided to hideout here. You realize, I'm having my own beautician coming here for me, right? Just warning you now" I say giggling. I bet Franko can give ten people a run for their money with his larger than life personality. "Why didn't you just stay at your own place?"
''My place is boring, besides Christian always stocks the best bourbon. You, Franco and The Devil are a lot more entertaining than being at home. Sorry Ana, but that is one sinister looking cat'' He says pointing at Hippo.
''Hey! What'd I say about my kitten. Yah. Remember that Elliot. Anyway, Franko will be here at three, so I have enough time to sort out my stuff and chill in the library. Have a great time with the boys, honey.'' I address Christian and walk out of the room.
Elliot coming over was providential. He can hang with his brother whilst giving me time to call Kate. I need her to talk me off the ledge with some much-needed guidance. It sucks that she won't be attending tonight. She's flying to Hawaii for her annual family vacation. I could use a vacation. Some sun and warm ocean water would be perfect and I'm green with envy. Sadly, I don't foresee any vacationing for a long while.
Christian POV
Not ten minutes after Ana closeted herself in the library, did dad and Gramps arrive, and I don't know which I am feeling more; pissed that they made my home their hideaway point, or cheer for joy knowing they'll keep my mind occupied from crazy thoughts. And I've got lots and lots of those.
I wonder if Dad and Gramps can answer some of the questions that'd been swarming my mind all night. Perhaps I can turn the conversation around without being too obvious. I get enough shit from Elliot as it is, and the last thing I need is his incessant worthless two cents.
When Ana told me, she figured out who introduced me to BDSM at fifteen, I just about had a panic attack. I truly do underestimate her perceptive intelligence. She is able to see people for who they are. She saw through Elena's teenage bullshit behaviour inadvertently allowing Ana to piece together Elena and my past relationship as well as our current understanding.
While Elena is my only friend outside of family, right now she is becoming a huge thorn in my side. I need to make sure that she keeps her distance from this situation before the whole world knows what happened between us all those years ago. God, it would be a huge shit storm if this knowledge reaches my family.
Thinking of Elena, her words 'Young and impressionable' keeps playing back in my head. Did she make me her submissive at fifteen because it was easy to lead a horny boy by his dick, or was her purpose more altruistic, desiring nothing more than to straighten me out the best way she knew how. Fuck, this introspective wondering is beginning to make my head hurt, and it's too deep to contemplate it thoroughly. What I do want to focus my attention on is Ana.
If there's one thing that became clear during my restless night, is that I want Anastasia more than I wanted anything in my life. Seducing her into the lifestyle, as Elena suggested, is an emphatic NO. Even I'm not that much of an asshole to stoop that low. Besides the woman hasn't got a submissive bone in that delectable body.
It is my hope, since we will be married, that with time perhaps I could get her to see me less as a business arrangement and more as a true-life partner. But there's the rub. How does one court a woman when one has no fucking idea how, and I'll be damned if I take advise from Elliot. By his own confession, El himself had run out of luck with the ladies lately. Fuck, this is bloody embarrassing. I can crush seasoned businessmen with the raise of an eyebrow, but have no idea how to approach a woman whom I desire above all to have a true relationship with.
''Christian," Dad calls pulling me from my thoughts. "Could you show me the ring you chose for Anastasia? Elliot has been non-stop about the price, and I want to see if it is as impressive as its price tag.'' I roll my eyes. Fucking Elliot. What an idiot.
I take the small box out of my safe to show him watching his expressions change from curious to surprise.
''That's some rock you've got here Christian. It's quite… Impressive.''
''I called it an Alien beacon." Says the Idiot. "You'll have to put another goon on Ana just to guard the ring.'' Elliot laughs just as Gramps enters the room. I snatch the box out of dad's hand to hide it in case Anastasia is with him. It wouldn't be a very good surprise if she saw it before I officially propose.
''Relax Christian. It's just me. Let me see it.'' Gramps grumbles as I hand him the box.
''Well, it's very... you, Christian. It's perfect in its ostentatiousness. You're definitely making a statement with a ring like this.'' I'm glad that he approves, and his statement was exactly what I was going for.
''I take it Anastasia hasn't seen it yet?''
''No. She hasn't. She knows that I'm going to propose tonight, but she doesn't know when, where or how. I want the proposal to be a surprise for her too, to make it more believable.'' I shrug nonchalantly trying to hide my embarrassment and feelings. Truthfully, I want to make it monumentally special and real. I want to make this proposal as heartfelt and earnest as possible so Ana can see my sincerity. There've been countless arranged marriages before, and I've even read a few where in that arrangement true relationships develop. It's possible right? Fuck, I'm sounding like one of Mia's chick flicks.
''Good plan son. Do you need our help for when you do decide to pop the question? Do you have an idea of when you're going to do it?'' Dad asks.
''I haven't decided yet. Initially, I was thinking to make the pyrotechnics spell 'Marry Me' with the fireworks display at the end of the night, but with such short notice, that's not possible. What would you suggest?''
''The fireworks would've been a spectacular proposal, that's too bad. But would you consider during the First Dance an appropriate time?'' Gramps offered.
''That is a great idea, Theo. Christian dropping to one knee just as the first dance finishes. It will be unexpected and have great coverage too.'' Dad approved. And it was one of those rare occasions when I agreed with him.
''I'll give it more thought Gramps, but however, I plan to do it by the end of the Ball, Anastasia and I will be engaged.'' I answer with a massive eat shitting grin. I bet I'm all glassy eyed and pathetic looking too.
''Huh. You're singing a different tune Christian. What brought this drastic change in attitude? A few days ago, you were all pissy and now you're practically glowing. What's up with you?'' Dad asked with suspicion.
Oh fuck.
''You want to know what's up?'' Elliot chirps pointing at my groin area. Dickhead!
''The last few days have made me realize the benefits to this match. Thanks to Anastasia, I was able to secure a deal with a Russian businessman and Japanese gave us a 'go ahead' on the shipyard. All this and we're not even married yet. Pretty good eh?'' I deflect with a wink and a smile.
''Don't count your chickens before they hatch, Christian. All may be well now, but until the threat of Ms. Williams is gone nothing is set in stone.''
Thanks Dad. Joy Kill. I was having a moment there.
''Yeah. Yeah. I get that, but you have to see Anastasia in action. The woman is just brilliant, so even if Leila runs with the story, I'm confident that Ana and I can handle it.'' I countered.
''Good to know. Just be careful son.''
''So, topic change here, how are things with mom and Mia? I'm actually a bit shocked not hearing a peep from my beloved baby sis yet.'' I do care about Mia and am very concerned with the way Dad handled her.
''Nothing new there. I'm getting the cold shoulder, maybe that's why she hasn't contacted any of you yet. I made a point to let her know that all of you were on board with my decision, so that might be the reason she hasn't called you for sympathy, Christian. Your mother was against my plan at first but when Mia ignored and refused to complete her last bit of work for the Ball, they got into a shouting match. Your mother now sees the wisdom in my reining her in.'' From the way Dad tells us this, you can tell Mia's behaviour is weighing on him. Mia is usually our ray of sunshine, but after seeing her at the gallery I have to agree with Dad. Mia needs to get her shit together and grow up already.
''She will come around soon, Carrick. She will pout and stomp her feet for a while, but if we stand firm, she'll come into her own.'' Gramps encourages. I really do hope he's right because we all want and miss the wonderful Mia we've always known.
''Ok boys, Theo and I better get back to the battlefield. Christ, I hope everything's done by the time we get back. Please don't be late.'' With that they depart.
Looking at my watch and turn to Elliot, ''If you don't need too much time to get ready for tonight, want to hit the gym? God knows I need a good work out to relieve some of this tension.''
''Abso-fuckin-lutely bro. It's been some time since I've shown you how it's done.''
''Oh please, asshole.'' Although I know my brother is a beast and can lift a lot more than me, he hasn't been able to outdo me in push ups since I was seventeen. Weights is one thing, total body core control is another, and if there's one thing I excel in, it's control. Game on indeed Brother.
''Bring it on Chrissy!'' he says as we make our way to Escala's gym.
So here you go. Yep, another filler chapter, but much needed one. The Ball will be here soon, with the proposal and drama.
Thank you for reading and your feedback.
Ilenka
