Hi. Here is a long one as a thank you for your patience )
With the corona virus spreading so fast I hope you all stay safe and well.
Anastasia POV
Saturday 18 May 2019
Making my way to the Library, I hear the ding of the elevator and hear both Carrick and Theo's voices. Giving them a quick wave and smile in greeting and I continue toward the library. I suspect they're taking refuge from the preparations as Elliot has. I'm only in the library for a few seconds before I hear the library door open again, and I turn to find Theo entering.
"Hello Theo. Good morning. Are you well?" with a bright smile I go to shake his hand, but Theo will have none of that. He pulls me into a quick grandfatherly hug. With a gentle squeeze, I return his hug with one my own.
"I'm well Ana, thank you. How's everything here? I notice you've taken asylum in one of my favourite rooms. I know how amazing modern technology really is , e-books and all that, but this" his arms expand to indicate the room and the many books lining the shelves, "a room like this, the feeling of a book in your hands, the smell of the pages, it's irreplaceable."
Smiling I reply, "Being a book lover myself, I completely agree with you. Technology is a wonderful thing, saving lots of trees, but there's just something romantic about reading a book in a quiet space. And a library is sanctuary."
Theo leads me over to a few comfy chairs and encourages me to sit.
"I thought I'd take this time to speak with you Ana and share where we're at with our investigation with Steele Advertising"
"Yes, please Theo. I've been so wrapped up with meetings and introductions, that I haven't spent much brain space on my own company. Thank you" I say with sincerity, "I appreciate the gentle reminder and your time."
Theo's been going thru all the paperwork regarding Steele Advertising indicating the company's current financially status as well as business transactions orchestrated under Pierce's reign. Although Theo didn't have anything concrete at this time, but he did find a some things that raised a few red flags for him. If Theo can find a way for me to get access to SA dealings, I'd be indebted to him for life. Just as I was about to express this to him, Taylor knocks on the library door letting me know Franco has arrived.
"Theo. Thank you again for your assistance and keeping me abreast. I know you're just keeping up the Grey family part of this bargain, but I also know that you're retired so don't need to take my case as personally as you do. You could've easily gotten one of the clerks from your firm to do it. So, truly. Thank you." Giving Theo one last hug, I go to my room to get ready for the evening.
Franco indeed is a true magician, not only in his craft, God bless the man, but he has an eye for fashion as well. You would think being in the industry I have an unfair advantage of everyone else on society up and coming vogue. But we all know that often times it's those very people whose lives don't necessarily reflect the profession. For example, I know people who hire cleaners who come into peoples' homes once a week to clean their house, and they do an impeccable job. Now go to their own homes, and it's without a doubt the most untidy, unorganized mess. The model who prefers to shop at the local consignment shop, or the socially inept CEO, not naming anyone there.
I am of this category. I may be in advertising, and I know my craft well, and have an eye for placement, lighting, space colour and how to manipulate these to draw a response from people. I focus on the details of my art, not the superciliousness of the trade. It's a juxtaposition, I know. Don't get me wrong, I know fashion and like to dress nicely, but I'm not a crazy fashionista who is keeping up with all the latest trends.
I also know that without Kate's guidance I needed a second opinion on which outfit to wear for the Gala. First World problems are a necessary evil in this case. I, the antagonist for anything shopping related, went out and bought two, yes, TWO dresses. I'm banking on Franco's keen fashion sense to tip the balance on my decision.
After modelling in both gowns, Franco agreed on the form fitting, gun metal coloured dress. It reminded me of something out of The Great Gatsby. The weaving of the beads, some dark, others sparkled entwined into a baroque style pattern. This gown had long sleeves and a high neckline, the nude colour silk underlayer made me look like I was naked underneath, guaranteed to shock and awe. It had a high neckline which clasped like a collar in the back, and while the front was a tapestry of art deco design, the back was completely bare.
The other dress, Franco correctly pointed out, was dramatic in its' own way and more appropriate for a night out at a club than a formal soiree. Although the art deco dress Franco chose covered me from head to toe, it was modern, elegant, daring yet classy.
The man is a genius when it comes to female way of thinking. He took a task that I hate with a passion and turned it to a game. While I'm under constant scrutiny of the press I might as well have some fun with shocking the public with unexpected outfits.
"Brava bellissima. Questo è perfetto"
I was having my own Cinderella moment. After taking off the chosen outfit, Franco got to work on my face and hair. It's fascinating to watch yourself being transformed into something other than yourself. I know I'm not abhorrent to look at, but I do consider myself plain, like Mary Bennet kind of plain. Being always 'the little kid' among adults typically I was overlooked, bypassed and for the most part ignored, which suited me well at that time. I actually do remember how I overheard a bunch of boys talking about me during freshman year in college. They were making fun of me because in their opinion you could mistake me for a boy if not for my long hair. Boy, did that statement mess with my head and self-image at the time. I only got over that during my senior year when I finally got some boobs and bought a dress. And the funny thing was, that the same guy who berated me was the first one to try and ask me out. I told him to take I hike, because in my world you can't bully someone and then act like nothing happened.
Do you know how much a person can get done when given the space and freedom to just be? Telling that idiot to fuck off empowering in a way. But tonight, Franco is offering me a different type of empowering. He's turning me into his own work of art and I'll give credit where credit is due; what he's achieved with me is nothing short of a miracle, and it's impressive.
"Christ on a cracker! Franco! Holy Shit! I'm…this is…wow…and weird. I mean, weird cause I've never looked like this before, not that I was ever trying to, but truly this is remarkable. I never knew I could could look like this, this look compliments my dress perfectly." I'm absolutely stunned. In the mirror I see a young vixen and not a little girl I'm used to seeing in the mirror. More so, I feel like I can conquer the world. It's definitely not something I'd do every day, but it's perfect for this evening. "Thank you for helping me Franco. You really are my fairy godmother!"
Franco is positively beaming at me as an artist would over their inspirational completed piece. He's all white teeth exuding a proud aura of achievement. I'm afraid to move fearing I may mess up his work.
"Fuck me, I am good. But with you as my muse, it's not like I had to do much. You have a natural beauty Ana, so I only highlighted what you already have, and now look at you, all foxy and fuckable. Woman, you are a true work of art, so believe it and use it!" he says with a little wiggle of excitement. "The men tonight will be on you like white on rice. These guys will be like swirling in your aura, trying to bedazzle you with their thingy's and what-nots. Mio Dio!"
"Thingy's and what-nots?!" I roll my eyes heaven ward chuckling. He sounds like a gay Italian homey, it's hilarious.
"Lots of what-nots Bella. LOTS!" he winks.
Yah. If he only knew.
"Franco, I sincerely appreciate all you've done for me today. I was a nervous wreck about tonight. I've attended parties like this but not with the whole world scrutinizing my every move, and just the thought of tonight was making me nauseous, so really…thank you. Your magic hands helped skyrocket my self-confidence. And for that I simply can't say thank you enough."
"Ok. Stop. You're making my mascara run. Hand me a tissue before I start looking like some kind of gothic vampire" He gives me a watery smile changing his accents now to sound like an Italian drag queen. The guys a chameleon. I love him.
Franco smiles and blinks a few times, then claps his hands in finality, "Okay, let's get you to your Prince Charming. I want to see the look on his face when he sees you. Jaw meet floor. This is the reason I love love love my job."
"Umm, not to diminish the brilliance of your work, because really what you did is amazing, but Christian Grey has been to many of these type of events with, I'm sure, exceptionally stunning women. As brilliant as all this is, I'm not going to be knocking his socks off. I just don't want you to be too disappointed by his non-reaction. The guy has perfected that patented poker face" In the last few days, I've witnessed Christian being completely unaware when beautiful women surround him and try to engage his attention. It's a non-starter. I just hope Franco's feelings aren't too hurt. I'm quite familiar with stylists and their sensitive ego's. They're quite fragile.
''You don't believe me do you Bella? Pfft. Well, that's fine, but don't say I didn't warn you.'' He grabs my hand and practically drags me out of the room.
Whoa! Yo, bitch-friend, I'm wearing five-inch platform heels here!
We see Christian by the breakfast bar, wearing a tux that looks like it was made especially for him.
Well of course it is, You Idiot! Mary Mother of God, this man is beautiful. It's really not fair. I think God hates me or something. He puts someone like Christian Grey in my life. HE is every woman's wet dream. Fuck, he's my wet dream, even if he is an ass, but by God what a fine ass it is. Ironic, I know. No, not ironic, it's tragic!
Keeping my libido in check, I cautiously, and I mean cautiously, because, did I mention, I'm in five-inch bloody heels, work my way to the top of the stairs. The person who invented heels was a real masochist, but even I will admit that, while high heels are usually painful they make you really graceful and feminine.
I exhale slowly for two reasons, one; for the appreciation of Christian's manliness and secondly to calm my riotous nerves, and hopefully not fall down the stairs.
"Okay Cinderella. Let's get yourself to the ball."
Christian POV
Thank fuck I got that work out in with Elliot earlier. The distraction helped me organize my thoughts on my proposal. I wanted it to be memorable, romantic but not sappy. It has to represent Ana which left me in the dark as to how to make my proposal reflect that. I may know some facts about my girl, but the painful reality is that I don't know her, not really.
In the end, I decided to go with dad's plan to propose after the first dance. I'm just hoping I can make it look natural, focusing just on her. While Ana is getting ready for tonight, I take this time to go over my proposal. I'm embarrassed to admit that I had to go online to research how other guys had done it. Some of the stuff on there is bloody insane. There were mob dances, jumbo screen proposals at a sporting event, and believe it or not, this one guy dresses up like from a period film and spews a line from, what I am assuming, the book. I know this because the chick who was proposed to got all teary eyed and says, "You remembered my favourite book!"
Fucking Freaks! Yah. Not going to happen. Christ talk about being pussy whipped. Women actually fall for this shit? I'm sure if I tried that on Ana, she'd bloody cuff me upside the head before I get down on one knee.
I think I'll stick to what I got and hope for the best. Besides, I hate mobs, I hardly go to sporting events and there's not fucking-freaking-way will I ever dress up in a period outfit. The simple thought has got me shivering.
Making my way over to the fridge, I open a bottle of champagne for us. I'm hoping the bubbly will set the stage for tonight. I know Ana doesn't like to drink in public, so some liquid courage should take the edge off and help us relax into our roles. I'd prefer something a little stronger, I think Ana would prefer champagne.
''Mr. Grey, it is lovely to see you again. Dashing as always, I see.'' Franco greets me in his usual sing song voice. I see he's coming toward me to what I think could be a kiss on my cheek, so I quickly extend my hand out in greeting instead. He's a touchy fucker, and I already have personal space issues. ''I hope you don't mind, but I took some liberties with your girlfriend this afternoon."
WHAT THE FUCK?!
Seeing my expression, he laughingly teases, "Not like that Silly. You're more my type, if you get my meaning, but Ana here…let's just say you have a great eye for beauty Mr. Grey. We have many things in common." Seeing my still quizzical expression, he emphasizes, "Beauty in Art Mr. Grey. Your Ana is Beauty in Art, don't you agree?" he holds out his arm encouraging me to turn around.
Oh. Fuck. Me…yes, please.
I imagine this is what people would refer to as an out of body experience, because I can feel my world shift and everything just stops. My entire being is put on pause as I stare basking in my euphoric moment. Ana is breathtakingly beautiful. Her dress glimmers as the light catches the beads that make up the design on her dress. A million little sparkles fly in all directions as she slowly makes her way down the stairs. She's enchanting and magnificent. As if drawn by a magnet, I step closer to her, take her delicate hand into mine and kiss the back of it. I take a second longer over her hand and inhale the scent of her skin.
She smells like honey and jasmine. If the back of her hand smells this divine, I can only imagine…oh my God. Christ this is going to be a very long night.
''You look stunning, Anastasia.'' It's satisfying to know that despite her general attitude towards me, I can get her to blush so deliciously.
She smiles brighter and stands taller exuding confidence with my compliment.
''Thank you Christian. You're quite stunning as well. Armani?''
"Kiton, but Italian non the less."
"The cut is exquisite and highlights your physique masterfully."
"Your dress is stunning Anastasia. Which designer did you choose?"
"I have no idea. European, I believe. Kate chose this one. It's a bit blingy for me, but according to her this is the perfect dress for this occasion, which also happens to have the Franco stamp of approval so ta-da!" she says with her arms extended.
By instinct, I reach out and take hold of both her hands, holding them like an embrace.
"Well, Franco was not exaggerating. You are a work of art" and again, she blushes. Just beautiful. Her reactions give me hope that she is not immune to me and if I play my cards right this marriage will become real.
''I thought since we have a few minutes, we could enjoy a glass of champagne before we head out.'' I reluctantly let go of her to pour us each a glass.
''Excellent idea Mr Grey. Y'know, you're a bit of a bad influence on me.'' She giggles after taking a sip.
''What do you mean?''
''This is the second time you've encouraged me to break my own 'no drinking' rule.'' She says with a raised brow.
"It's a stupid rule; unless, of course, there's a greater reason you have that rule. Is there something you need to share with me?" Her brows crinkle in confusion, until my insinuation dawns on her.
"No Mr Grey. The only things in my closet are lots of clothes. No skeletons. My stigma regarding alcohol was mainly influenced by my profession. I've seen so many talented and beautiful models and professionals fall under the illusion of comfort in a bottle or other addictions that at an early age I made the conscious decision not to have that for my life. An occasional drink, of course, but I'm not one to indulge. Besides I'm still underage, think of all the shit that press would dump on me if they catch me with a drink. " I get her reasoning a bit better now.
''It's all about balance Anastasia. Control and balance. 'Anything in excess is poison'. There's nothing wrong with a glass of a good vintage from time to time."
Taking our flutes in hand, we clink and take sips. I watch as she closes her eyes and crinkles her nose from the bubbles. Adorable. She smiles contentedly, then takes a deep breath in, exhaling slowly her mouth pursing open a little.
We make small talk as she shares her insecurities. She's afraid she'll make a spectacle of herself, or, more stupidly, people won't take her seriously as anything more than Christian Grey's girlfriend, soon to be fiancé. I can understand this. She's fiercely independent and wants to be accepted as herself not as a label and I'm not sure how to reassure her. Most of the time, I'm in awe of her, so to witness this vulnerability is humbling and I'm searching for anything I can do or say to ease her worry, but I come up short, yet again.
That's it. I'm binge watching every fucking chick flick out there the next few weeks. I'm a bumbling idiot. This, right now, is the perfect opportunity to show your support and you're fucking it up. Stop staring at her and say something. DO something.
And all that comes out of my mouth is "Drink up Ana. You'll be fine. Cheers."
You really are an idiot. You're as supportive as an overcooked asparagus.
I watch her take a deep breath in, tips her glass to me saying "Going for broke Grey. Salut!"
...
There's a mob of paparazzi lining up the carpeted entrance to the backyard where the event is taking place. We are in car queue following a long line of diplomatic sedans and limo's crawling closer to the red-carpet area, and the closer our car gets to it, the more nervous Ana seems to get. I can tell she's probably envisioning a multitude of scenarios of how she can fuck this up, damning herself before she steps a pretty sparkled toe nail out of the car.
''Anastasia." I use her full name to gain her attention. "Please just relax. This is not Buckingham Palace, and we are not visiting the Queen. Please put this event into perspective. You are not an ambassador or diplomat who's come to negotiate a peace treaty between nations. This is a fundraiser, and the only reason we're here is to announce ourselves. Nothing else. We make our presence known, do what we've came to do, and then we can leave. Don't let the all this fancy shit fool you. It's not that big of a deal."
''How many people will be here tonight?'' she whispers with wide eyes.
Ah, damn. I hope the numbers don't intimidate her further.
''I'm not completely sure, but close to four hundred." And there's the deer in headlights look. Shit. "Don't worry," I reassure her, "I promise, I won't leave your side. This fundraiser is the biggest event of the season so it's expected that all the important people will be in attendance. My parents are the founders of it, which is why mom puts so much effort into it. My father and grandfather thought it the best venue for our introduction to society because it's so well covered. You won't fuck anything up. Just be yourself. Look how successful you were last Tuesday. Same as there, these people will be lining up to meet you, not the other way around.''
It dawns on me that Anastasia, like me, does not do well with crowds. She's brilliant and creative and confident when she's one on one, but put in her the spot-light, and she's like a rabbit, full of nervous energy and anxiousness.
"Ana. Let's do some envisioning work to help you cope through this, ok? If the mass of people is what is intimidating to you, stop focusing on the crowd. Think of greeting the people in small doses, like a cluster of trees in the forest. Tunnel your vision to a small group of people where you feel the most comfortable, and then when you're ready, explore beyond them to take in the greater picture. You'll find it's not as scary as your dreaming it up to be."
Drawing in a deeper breath, she claps her hands determinedly and with conviction and says ''You're right. When you put it like that it doesn't seem as terrifying as I think it is or will be." She gives me a bright smile and chuckles softly, "Look at you all wise and knowing. Is this something you've had to do for yourself? I'm sure as a young businessman, getting your foot into the elite world of Mergers and Acquisitions, it must have been challenging. I'm sure it's not the walk in the park as you make it seem."
Taking her hand and giving it a gentle squeeze, I assure her "Oh yes. It was a lot of work. Old Dogs have a harder time learning new tricks, and I was very new. I needed to be taken seriously, and the only way to make a change, make a difference, or get my foot in was to be sure of myself and take it in bits. I got lucky and grabbed a golden opportunity when it came to me, then put my vision into action. As my name got around, the old dogs took notice and I started gaining momentum, covering more ground. I did this by keeping things into perspective and keep my focus on my goals. You do this already. Just tap into what you already know about yourself and work from there." She smiles at me and I can see her nervous energy has calmed. "Feeling better?
"Yes. Thank you Christian. I am feeling better, but still, please don't leave me. I get what you're saying, and maybe I'll get better with time. This is a huge first for me, and like you said baby-steps, right? I don't want to seem clingy, but if you could just put up with me for one night, I'd feel more confident."
"Of course, Ana. You are, after all, my beloved fiancé. Cling away" To reassure her, I gently lift one of her hands to my lips and place a soft kiss there. Her smile back is tender, almost loving, making my heart swell.
When we step out of the car it is like the Gallery Opening all over again. Same as the night at the gallery, we are inundated with blinding flashes, loud screaming, all of that irritating shit. But when I reach in to help Ana out of the car, the crowd made an audible collective gasp and with that reaction I knew this evening would go well. I wrap a protective arm around my girl, then put my hand into the small of her bare back guiding her forward bypassing the press. We slowly make our way to the Gala gate entrance, pose together for the obligatory pictures then head over to the marquee.
Only Grace can make ostentatious look appropriate and elegant. If she never succeeded in Paediatrics, she'd do well with Interior Design. From the red carpet greeting to the event grounds, to the tent where we have our meal, to the outdoor stage and dance area, every attention to detail is considered. No guest is left unattended, their needs anticipated and executed. Hats off to Mia too if she took some part in the preparation for tonight. If this is her half-ass job, imagine what she could accomplish should be put her mind to it.
As we move through, we're Immediately approached by people who want to meet Anastasia. Some use business as an excuse to garner an introduction or just to get a closer look at my girl. Old farts who wouldn't give me the time of day, leading me around the corporate dance floor holding on to their last vestiges of power, are now approaching me with interest. I had no idea that having a significant other would open the doors to so many potential business opportunities, unfortunately, tonight is not the night I want to schmooze. Tonight, is for Ana so, I politely keep our interactions short, making an internal list of the men who I want Andrea to set up meetings for next week.
Anastasia is a vision to watch as she carries conversations with those whom she's being introduced to. Smart girl did some research on some of the attendees for tonight's function surprising me with her knowledge and easy banter. That one thoughtful detail is paying off spectacularly. Seasoned men are almost falling over themselves to prolong their conversations with her, and their lustful gaze is not lost on me either.
Thirty minutes of moving about, greeting people and shaking hands is wearing Ana out. She starts to fidget and that's my signal to wrap this up for a breather.
''Gentlemen, if you would please excuse us, we've yet to greet my parents. I'd be pleased to set up a meeting with you during the week where we would have more time to discuss further. Thank you for coming to this event. Enjoy your evening. Ana, sweetheart" and with a slight nod I take Ana's hand and lead her toward the tent where dinner will be served and where I'm hoping my parents will be.
I hear Ana beside me sigh in relief. ''Thanks for helping me out back there. I know that meeting everyone is a necessary evil, and I promise I'll get used to it, but I feeling a bit crowded for my comfort and I was getting a bit overwhelmed.'' She exhales.
I smile down at her softly caressing my thumb over our clasped hands ''I promised to watch over you tonight. Just keeping my word, Ms. Steele.'' I say the last part with the best British accent I could muster making her giggle.
I need to record that giggle. It's endearing.
Ana notices mom and dad first, they are holding their own court by the bar. She points them out,
''Let's go and greet your parents.'' She says with little enthusiasm.
Mom did me a real disservice with her less than cool attitude toward Ana. Her cautiousness stems from her instinct to protect her kids, I get it, but her lack of support could not have come at a worse time. I know the moment she finds out why we've kept everything from her, Dad's going to be sleeping in the boat house for a year, fuck the couch. I'm thinking Dad should move in with Grandpa cause I'm sure Grandma isn't going to be pleased either.
''I know my mom hasn't been very receptive to you. She tends to be overly protective of me, more so than the others. She's really a loving mother once you get to know her. Please just give her a chance. She'll come around.'' I give her a reassuring smile, but I hardly believe my own words. I have a gut feeling that some shit is sure to hit the fan tonight.
''Sorry Christian, but your mom makes me nervous. I get the protective shit and I understand caution, but does she need to be so caustic? You're a grown man for fucks sake. It's more of a reflection on you than on her. Clearly, she doesn't trust your judgment" she snaps.
Fuck she's getting feisty, and she does have a point. But now is not the best time to psychoanalyze my mother. I need her to relax. We just got settled into this circus and I need her to clear her mind so we can get through the next few hours. Fuck, I need to clear my mind to get through tonight so instinctively I stop walking and pull her into an embrace know, but not caring about the onlookers.
Ana startles at first contact, obviously not expecting any PDA from me, but then she relaxes and tentatively puts her hands, then arms around my waist. I immediately feel calm and comforted. Basking in this feeling, I press her closer to me soaking her in. Her tiny form pressed against me is out of this world. I'm once again surprised at how comfortable I feel. There's no blanketing darkness, no sense of panic. No pain. No discomfort. Just a calm peacefulness as the world around us disappears. The irony of this epiphany is not lost on me.
Home. This is home and I wish we could stay in this moment, this little bubble of bliss forever.
I'm not sure if Ana is feeling the same way, and if she doesn't, I have at a year to, hopefully, steer her feelings my way. Taking the bull by the horns, so to speak, I start on my mission by giving her the support she needs.
''Anastasia, I know how my mother is, and I apologise for the way she's treating you. Obviously, I'm going to have to have my own conversation with her, but know that I won't let anyone, including my family, disrespect you. Not my mother, not my sister, not anyone.'' God, I don't even recognise my own voice, but I hope she takes to heart my sincerity.
"Let's put it all this bullshit aside. The press, the crowds, my family and just be together. Tonight, here, let's just be a couple going out to have a good time. We'll deal with the reality of our lives tomorrow. Ok?"
I am so fucking pussy whipped it's embarrassing. She's turned me in a complete sap and I don't even care. How is it possible to feel vulnerable and empowered at the same time?
When she looks up at me, I can almost feel our initial persona's that we'd labelled each other melt away. She, the Ice Queen Ms. Steele and my Hard Ass CEO Mr. Grey masks fall. Standing together, we're just Anastasia and Christian. A man and a woman drawn to each other.
Or at least I know that I am. Despite what she may or may not feel for me, I think I am officially fucked.
Being wrapped up in the euphoria of the moment, I slowly lean in and kiss her. She gasps in surprise giving me the perfect opportunity to invade her mouth. I start with a gentle kiss which ignites my desire. I tentatively and carefully stroke the inside of her upper lip with the tip of my tongue. She stiffens at first, but to my utter shock, she starts kissing me back.
Sweet Lord! Her lips are even softer than I imagined, and she tastes of heaven.
I'm having an out of body experience. Who would have thought that a simple kiss could make you feel this way? Every nerve in my body is on fire. I don't even care about the audience that I know we're garnering. I want them all to see. I want everyone here tonight know that she is mine and mine only.
Who am I kidding? The real truth is she's the one that's claimed me.
Taylor POV
To say that I loathe the Coping Together Ball would be an understatement. The Grey mansion is a security nightmare on an ordinary day, add the heightened interest of the gala with Christian attending with his girlfriend, plus crazy Leila on the loose and it's a recipe for disaster.
Leila Williams always gave me a strange vibe but now I have nightmares over the unhindered bitch. The whole team has been working non-stop to find her only to come up short with not a single lead and it's beyond frustrating.
It's like she just fell off the face of the Earth. Or living in a cave near a swamp more like.
Tonight, I've put my team on high alert. I have men scattered all over the estate surrounding the boundary and mingling with the guests. This security is on top of the CPO's assigned to the family members. I'm not taking any chances or backing off on security despite Christian's insistence that he can handle things on his own. Clearly, last Tuesday taught us all a valuable lesson and the likelihood of any Ms. Daniels type showing up tonight will be next to impossible.
Not on my fucking watch will that happen again.
I've put a tag on each of Mr Grey's past paramours to ensure that clusterfuck of last Tuesday's security breach is not repeated.
That nasty Lincoln woman is another one on my shit-list. Overhearing her conversation with Christian about Anastasia the other day tagged her RED in my book instantly, which guaranteed a 24/7 surveillance watch on her. If she so much as blows her nose, I'll know about it. Over my dead body will I let her, and/ or Christian, drag that girl down. He may have expressed his displeasure with Elena at the end of their conversation, but not enough to make me feel confident it won't happen again. If Christian won't man up from that psycho bitch to protect his own, then by all that is holy, I'll do it for him.
Christian may be my boss, but Ms Steele did not sign up for that shit. Business arrangement or not, she's a decent human being. For better or for worse be damned. Mrs Lincoln is his problem, not hers.
''Sawyer, keep a close eye on the Little One and under no circumstances will she be left alone with Mrs. Lincoln for any length of time.'' I instruct Luke through the earpiece.
''Understood Taylor. You have to admit it'd be quite entertaining to see her go off on the woman."
"As amusing as that may be Sawyer, them together will get ugly and draw unnecessary attention making our lives more of a living hell that it already is. Keep your focus on the job. We're not here for the entertainment."
"Copy that."
"Everyone; call yourselves in and report. Let me know what you're seeing out there."
Walking closely behind the 'happy couple' I hear reports come in from each man's position. So far, all is well, and as welcoming as that may be, I continue to scan around us assessing and monitoring. I have to hand it to the boss for tolerating all of these people. Bunch of ass kissers and pretentious socialites the lot of them, but that's part of the job.
''So, Sawyer" I hear over my com, "how are you holding up babysitting the girl? Anytime you want to switch watch, I'd be happy to swap. I wouldn't mind tailing her fine ass.'' Mark pipes up.
Mark Reynolds is not only a new addition to the team but new to this type of security detail. He's ex operative with great skills. His forte is in reading people and assessing potential dangers, but he's also a kid in heat. Bloody adolescent.
"Keep it clean and respectful boys. If that's too much for you to uphold Reynolds, let me know. You can be replaced."
"Sorry Taylor. No disrespect intended, but you can't blame me for looking. A fine ass is a hard find. I'm just calling it as I see it, Sir." I know Reynolds isn't done talking yet. He's got a shitty watch as Mia Grey's CPO, and I think it's taking a toll on his patience.
"Seriously Luke," and there it is, "what will it take to switch? I'm begging you. It's not forever, just for a couple of days. You have no idea the kind of shit I have to put up with from my assignment. Babysitting Mia Grey is a nightmare, not to mention the inappropriateness of her friends. Makes you feel dirty."
''Quit whining, Reynolds. Being hit on by pretty girls can't be that bad.'' Sawyer retorts.
''Pretty girls, I agree. Skanks do not impress me. Trade with me. Forget about a couple of days, even for one day will work. You have no idea what I've had to put up with in the last few weeks man. Seriously, T, I need a different assignment. I'm a hairs breath from quitting. Mia Grey is a loose cannon and she's driving me nuts.''
Reynolds is one of my best men and I would hate to lose him because Mia Grey has an attitude with a posse to match.
''I'll see what I can do, Reynolds'' I answer, he knows better than question me further.
''Oh, Fuck me." I hear another one of the men say over the com.
"Ryan, what's happening by you?"
"What is it with the women at these parties? Do they not get laid? I've had my ass pinched twice and my pockets are bulging with all the napkins being shoved into them. I'm all for a late-night booty, but fuck this is distracting. It's going to be a satisfying week my friends.''
''Will you all just shut the fuck up and concentrate on the task at hand.'' I bark although secretly enjoying the banter. Typical crass dudes who know their shit and can do their job well. "Just keep the chatter to a minimum. I want the coms clear unless one of you has some serious shit to bring to our attention. Understood."
"Affirmative"
"Sir"
"10-4"
Grey and the Little One has walked a bit away from me, but in close enough range that I can get to them easily. I was scanning the area and the guests around them looking for any odd behaviours or anything that would give me an off feeling. It's then that I notice the crowd slowly move their heads toward one direction. I look over to the source of interest only to find Christian and the Little One engaged is some serious PDA.
HOLY FUCK! I never knew the boy had it in him.
Although the kiss was innocent enough to us common folk, for Christian Grey this is anything but. In all my years working for this man, I have never seen him this intimate with another woman before. Red Room girls don't count. That's not intimacy. It's an animalistic means to an end.
I do another scan of the area and notice that literally half the females in the crowd had turned green with envy. I spot the Botox witch and pay close attention to her reaction. She is not happy, which puts me on alert.
''Code Yellow Sawyer. If you're seeing what I'm seeing, you'll need to stay close to the Little One. I can almost see one of these jealous bitches stab her with a fork. Mr Grey can take care of himself.'' I grumble. I bet my next pay cheque that some of these women don't appreciate an upstart newbie like Ana coming in and securing Christian in a way they have all tried and failed to do.
''Already on it, T.'' Good. Never a dull fucking moment in Grey World.
''Fuck! Grey is one lucky mother fucker. It's no wonder his little lady is stealing the show. Her dress is bloody sinful and like glittery magic. He'd be hard pressed to keep us red-blooded males at a distance. Makes a man want to spank one out with a vision like that'' Ryan says over the com. He's the team joker. Brilliant man but lacking in any brain to mouth filter.
''Jesus Christ Ryan. What the fuck did I just tell you boys not five minutes ago. That Little Lady will be your boss' fiancé very soon, so show some fucking respect. Do not make crass comments and learn to filter your thoughts. One more remark like that, in my hearing, and I'll personally kick your ass.''
''Sorry Taylor, you know I don't mean it like that. She's hot. That's all I'm saying.'' Ryan grumbles.
''Take your hand off me Miss and step away. I am not part of the evening's entertainment." Who the fuck was that? Reynolds?
"Fuck Taylor. I'm feeling violated here and getting close to that two-week notice. I swear to god I'm going to taser the next skank who touches me inappropriately. I'm not sure how much more I can take of this shit.'' Reynolds hisses irritated.
Fuck. My. Life.
''Reynolds. You pussy. Fall back and keep a grope free distance between yourself and Mia's group. Maintain your eyes on your assignment but for fucks sake stay in your grope free zone. Jesus Christ, I feel like some kind of camp councillor here." I need to throw Reynolds a bone or he will bolt on me.
"Sawyer, you and Reynolds switch shifts on Monday. Ms Steele has a hot yoga class with Ms Kavanagh. Think you can handle a hot room with a bunch of wet and flexible women Reynolds?'' How I manage to say that without cracking up is anyone's guess. Fuck, I'm good.
''OH, Fuck Yah! That puts HOT on a totally different level.''
"Oi, T! What the fuck?"
"Suck it up Sawyer, it's one shift. Let him have it this one time." Christ. Fucking Kindergartens. Sophie is easer to handle than these idiots.
"Now. All of you. Will you all Fucking Focus!"
Once again, thank you all for taking interest in my story. Your feedback is very much appreciated.
Huge thanks to my wonderful beta) She knows that she is the best!
Ilenka
