Christian's POV
I'm in Portland on business trying to acquire a business and nothing is going as planned. I decide to stop in at a quiet bar in this town. When I go inside I am greeted by a dark environment. About 3 patrons at a pool table in the back and then there is a slender dark haired woman wiping down the bar. I walk over and sit at the bar and the young woman approaches.
"How can I help you tonight?"
"Scotch neat."
"Coming right up."
She comes back with my drink and for a brief moment her fingers brush my hand and I feel this zap so I look into her eyes. The most beautiful eyes I've ever seen. I'm mesmerized instantly.
"So what brings you to Portland? I'm guessing by your dress attire you're not normally in this type of establishment."
"I have business in town and I just needed a drink. I didn't expect to find such a beautiful woman in front of me."
She blushes and leans over and whispers, "not too bad yourself sir."
My pants are now impossibly tight and another patron approaches the bar and she goes to him and serves him and he touches her hand and whispers in her ear and she giggles. Why is he touching her? Suddenly I'm filled with rage. She comes back to me.
"Most of the people that come in are regulars. That's my Dad's friend. He's like an uncle." She explains to me for some reason.
"When do you get off work?"
She looks at her watch as another woman approaches the back of the bar. "15 minutes."
"Do you need a ride home?"
She lean over the bar, gently runs my hand and whispers in my ear, "no but for some reason I want to spend the night with you. Something is pulling me to you."
I'm pretty sure my jaw is on the floor. "Come to my hotel. Presidential suite at the Heathman. Do you need a ride?"
"No. I'll meet you there." She kisses my cheek.
Suddenly I'm filled with anticipation. I've never done this before. I only have women in my play room. I wonder if she does this often. "I look forward to it."
I leave and drive to my hotel room in anticipation.
20 minutes later there's a knock on my door and there stands the most beautiful woman I ever laid my eyes on. I escort her in. Almost instantly she launches herself at me and her lips crash into mine. I lift her up and pin her up against the door, our lips never losing contact. I reach under her skirt and rip her panties off and unbuckle my pants and pull out my erection and within moments I thrust into her hot tight and wet core. I feel some resistance but push through. I still momentarily when she winces. "Are you okay?"
"Yes, give it to me please." I start to thrust harder and harder and have to work hard to keep myself from coming because I don't want to do so without giving her pleasure. She moans into my mouth and throws her head back against the door in pleasure. I feel her body getting near combustion and encourage her. "Come for me." And she screams as her body convulses around mine and it sends me right over the edge.
"That was amazing." She states breathless. "Just so you know. I've never done this before but with you I couldn't resist." She blushes.
"Never had sex with a stranger?" I pull out and lower her to the ground and notice some blood on my cock. "Were you a virgin?" she looks at her knotted fingers. I'm starting to feel rage. "ANSWER ME!" She flinches.
"Yes, I was a virgin."
"You need to leave. How could you not tell me?!"
"I don't disclose that information to anyone I don't know." She snaps.
"Well you should before you fuck someone you don't know. Go get cleaned up and leave. This was a mistake."
She gasps and runs to the bathroom. I can't believe I just deflowered a stranger against a hotel room door. I'm enraged. If she were mine I'd spank the shit out of her.
She comes out of the bathroom and heads for the door and looks back and says, "It didn't feel like a mistake to me. Goodbye." And she leaves.
I'm not sure why but I feel bad. I'm still mad. Mostly at myself. That was quite possibly the best sex of my life but I took her virginity against my hotel room door. Who does that? Fucked up monsters like you, Grey. My subconscious sneers. "Shut the fuck up." I need to find that girl. I treated her like shit. I don't even know her name though. FUCK!
Ana's POV
I just lost my virginity to a stranger and he got mad at me. What the hell was that. Some kind of magnetic force pulled me to him. I couldn't resist him. I felt a jolt of energy when I touched his hand at the bar. I'm crying and sitting in Wanda outside mine and Kate's apartment. I pull myself together and go to bed. I cry myself to sleep after putting on my jammies. Yes, I call my pajamas jammies. I have to pull myself together before I see Kate. I don't need the Kavanagh inquisition.
I have graduation in 2 months. I need to focus on my finals. I probably shouldn't go back to work at that bar. I don't want to risk having to see him again. He was such a dickhead just because I was a virgin. Tonight he just hurt me bad and I don't even know him as more than the guy who gave me my first taste of ecstasy and whom I gave my virginity to. I don't even know his name.
6 Weeks later
I've been getting sick every day this week. I decided to go to the doctor. I need to get to the bottom of this.
Dr. Smith enters the room thirty minutes after running a battery of tests on me. This has to be the flu, right? What else could it be?
"Miss Steele, it seems you are pregnant. About 6 weeks. Congratulations."
I pass out. I wake up and I'm laying on a couch. I look up and see Dr. Smith looking at me.
"What happened?"
"I told you that you were pregnant and you passed out. I take it that this was a surprise."
"Yes. Am I okay otherwise?"
"Healthy as can be. I am going to give you a prescription for prenatal vitamins and I want to see you next week for an ultrasound. Take it easy and I will see you next week."
"Thank you Dr. Smith."
I leave the office and go home. How do I explain this to Kate. This should be interesting.
Two weeks later
I'm supposed to be graduating today but I'm far too sick. I asked Kate to get my diploma for me.
She comes back gushing about the handsome Christian Grey who was handing out diplomas. She said he's handsome but broody.
Christian's POV
It's been 2 months since the most incredible sex of my life with the most beautiful woman I've ever seen. She is embedded in my mind. I cannot get her off my mind no matter how hard I try. She is in my mind when I'm awake as well as in my dreams. I've had 2 subs since that night and neither lasted more than a night. I couldn't get an erection because I felt bad. My mind just kept slipping back to that woman.. I feel guilty for how I treated the most beautiful woman on Earth. The guilt apparently is affecting my groin.
I've tried to find her but considering I don't know her name it's hard. I've gone back to the bar I met her at several times and she's never there. There's no way to hack into a computer system as they do all their paperwork by hand apparently. I asked around but no one will say a word there. I wonder if she told them about the prick that fucked her against a hotel room door?
I had to hand out diplomas at WSU Vancouver today and I could think about, as always, was that woman. Everywhere I go, I hope that I will see her. I need to get over that woman, considering I don't even know her.
Ana's POV
5 years later
I graduated from WSU 5 years ago. Kate helped me throughout my pregnancy. She was with me every step of the way. She even held my hand while I delivered my beautiful little girl. Avery Rose Steele was the most beautiful baby girl I've ever seen with her copper hair and Grey eyes just like her handsome father who she most likely will never know.
We have lived in Seattle since shortly after graduation. Three years ago I married Kate's brother Ethan. He's been my friend since I met Kate. We always connected on a deep level from the start but nothing like I felt with the handsome stranger. Ethan adopted Avery two years ago. Ethan works as a therapist and has a few clients that are very demanding so he sometimes is gone at all hours of the night because he's on call for VIP patients. These patients pay him an exceptional amount of money. It's a sacrifice I guess we have to make because the money really doesn't matter to me.
Recently Kate started dating Elliot Grey. Apparently he is the brother of the guy who handed out diplomas who she was gushing over after graduation. We met Elliot a few times and he keeps saying how Avery resembles his brother. I assured him that I don't know Christian Grey. Kate met him and also sees a resemblance but says it's a coincidence and I agree.
I never thought Kate would settle down but something tells me that this one will last. She's never been this invested in a guy before.
Christian's POV
It's been 5 years since that night I can't seem to forget. I've had several one night stands in an attempt to recreate that night hoping to get her off my mind but nothing works. I make sure to use condoms now though because with the beautiful woman I got carried away in the heat of passion and didn't even think of it. Still, I cannot get her out of my mind no matter what I try. I've not had any more subs which makes Elena mad but I no longer get pleasure from beating brown haired girls. Not since that night of ecstasy with the mystery woman.
Elliot is dating a woman named Kate now. He's never been serious about a woman like this before. Kate is the sister to my therapist, Ethan, whom I see a lot because I can't get dreams of that mysterious woman out of my head. Nothing seems to help but I feel a little better when he tells me if it's meant to be, I will meet her again. Ethan is married with a child and he tells me that if he can find the love of his life, then so can I. He claims he was once a man who just slept around until he met his wife Ana.
5 Years later
Ana's POV
Today is Kate and Elliot's wedding rehearsal. I'm her maid of honor, Ethan is a groomsman and Avery is the flower girl.
Me and Ethan's marriage has been stronger than ever. Ethan says today I can meet his highest paying patient. Not sure how to feel about that.
I've been working at a Seattle Independent Publishing for almost 10 years. I started out as an assistant to a creep by the name of Jack Hyde but after he attempted to assault me, he was fired and I was promoted months later to editor.
It's about time to head to the rehearsal.
"Ana, baby, are you ready?"
"Just finishing up. Why don't you drive on over with Avery and I'll meet you there? I have a few things to get ready before I leave. I'll take the Mustang."
"Okay baby." He gives me a kiss. "I'll see you there."
Christian's POV
I'm at my parent's house waiting for this rehearsal dinner to get started. Ethan is also in the wedding with his wife and daughter so I finally get to meet his family today. He talks about them a lot so I'm glad I get to meet them.
Ethan arrives with a little copper haired girl who is 9 or 10 years old. I imagine her mother must have copper hair as Ethan is blonde.
"Christian." He walks up to me holding the girl's hand. "Meet my daughter Avery. Avery, this is Christian."
The little girl shakes my hand and I see she had mesmerizing grry eyes like my own. "Nice to meet you Christian." She says looking bashful.
"Where's your wife?"
"On the way. Said she had something to take care of."
"I guess I'll meet her later."
"She's maid of honor so I don't think you have a choice there." He chuckles.
"I'll see you later. I'm gonna go back inside and get a drink."
I go in to the bar and grab a glass and behind the bar fixing a drink, I see her. I feel like I'm having déjà vu. But how did she end up at my parent's house?
"Funny seeing you here." I say and she jumps. She looks at me and her eyes widen. Just as beautiful as I remember.
"What? How?" she stutters.
"My brother is getting married." I offer my hand, "Christian and you are?"
"Ana. Scotch?" she shakes my hand and I notice the ring on her finger. Damn it.
"You remembered?" I ask.
"How could I forget?" she asks blushing.
"Your husband here?"
"He is. My daughter too."
She fixes me a scotch and takes her martini and slams it and fixes herself another. She seems nervous. "are you okay?"
"I am. Just didn't expect to see you again. I have to go find my family but I'll see you later." She walks off. I watch as she walks off. She's even more beautiful than I remember. She's curvier. It's a breathtaking view.
I walk back to the tent where everything is set up. I see her across the room talking to Ethan and the little girl. He gives her a kiss. Of course she has to be married to my therapist. He sees me staring and calls me over.
"Christian, this is my wife, Ana. Ana, this is Christian."
She offers her hand as if to act like we just met. "lovely to meet you Christian."
I take her hand and kiss it. "Nice to meet you as well Ana. I've heard a lot about you."
"All good I hope. I have to go see Kate." She gives him a kiss and takes her daughter and walks off.
I talk to Ethan a while longer but steal glances at Ana and Kate talking and catch them looking at me occasionally.
"How long have you been married Ethan?"
"8 years. I adopted Avery about 7 years ago. She's about 10 years old."
Then suddenly realization hits me. Avery is almost 10. She has my eye color and hair color. Ana was a virgin when I met her and I didn't use a condom. That was almost 11 years ago. Fuck! I have a daughter. "Ethan excuse me a minute."
"Of course."
Ana's POV
"Kate I have a problem."
"What's wrong, Ana?"
"The one night stand." I nod towards my daughter and Kate's mouth drops.
"Is he here?"
"It's Christian."
"Holy fuck! What do we do now?"
"Wait for him to do the math and say something?"
"She does look like him. Elliot even said it. What are the odds? How did you not notice before? He's a billionaire. He is always in the papers."
"You know I don't pay attention to that shit. He's coming this way."
He nods his head signaling for him to follow me. "I think he figured it out. Keep an eye on Avery. I'll be right back."
"I will. Good luck. He's a moody bastard."
I follow him to the house and he walks up the stairs and I stop at the bottom of the stairs. He turns and looks down at me. "We need to talk. Privately. Follow me."
I follow him and he takes me into a room. A bedroom. "Christian.." he cuts me off.
"Were you planning to tell me I had a daughter?"
"Yes. I planned on telling you 10 years ago but I knew nothing about you."
"Shit." He says and starts pacing. "You're married to my therapist and he is helping you raise my daughter. This is complicated."
"Yes, that summarizes it. What the fuck do we do now?"
"Good question. I want to know my daughter but considering your husband is my therapist this could get complicated. I may need to change therapists. Does Ethan know about me?"
"Just that it was a one night stand. That's all I knew so it's all he knows."
"Shit. He knows about the nature of our relationship that night. It's all I've been talking about for 10 fucking years. You're all I've been able to think about Ana but I couldn't find you. You've been living here in Seattle?"
"Since graduation from college, yes. Kate was my roommate."
"You're the other person she got the diploma for. Elliot told me years ago that Kate's friend's daughter looked like me but he's a fucking jerk so I didn't believe him. This is a cluster fuck."
"I'll tell Ethan it was you. Then we can work out some kind of arrangements with Avery."
"He's my therapist though, Ana. He knows I yelled at you for being a virgin. By the way, I'm sorry about that. I was mostly mad at myself. You deserved your first time to be special and I fucked that up."
"To me it was special. Well it could've been more special but it was fucking amazing."
"I agree. Anyway, he knows I'm obsessed with you. How the fuck do I get past this shit? Can I meet her and you when he isn't around? Until we figure out how to deal with this fucked up situation?"
I gasp. He's obsessed with me. "We can work something out. For now we need to get back and I'll discuss this more with you after the wedding is over?"
"Here's my number. Call and we will work this out." He hands me a business card with his number on it.
"Okay. It's nice to see you again Christian." I give him a kiss on the cheek and he walks out.
I wait a few minutes before leaving the room myself. This is overwhelming. I can't keep a secret from my husband. I need to get through this wedding and then talk to him. Yes. That will do.
I make my way downstairs and search out Kate and approach her. "Kate. We need to talk. I need advice. Let's get through rehearsals and have a drink."
"Ok. We're about to start. Come."
I follow and make my way to the back of the tent. We can see Elliot, Christian and Ethan standing there at the other end of the aisle. "Kate this is so awkward now." I whisper to her.
"You're telling me!" she says way too loud and now everyone is staring. I'm sure I'm bright red now so I distract myself and find Avery.
"Are you ready honey?"
"Yes, Mom. I know what I'm doing." I give her a hug and kiss on the cheek. She's nearly as tall as me but I'm pretty short so it's not unusual.
Mia is the other bridesmaid and she floats effortlessly up the aisle like she does this every day. Personally I'm pretty sure I'll fall on my face. I'm next to walk up and I try to look at my husband but I feel grey eyes staring at me so I glance at him staring and grinning. I just shake my head and keep walking. I take my place across the alter from them. Next comes Avery with a little boy. I can't remember his name.
Avery comes to stand almost in front of me. I put my hands on her shoulders. I notice yet again that Christian is staring at us while Kate comes down the aisle and I will myself to watch her and avoid this incredibly awkward situation. After she reaches Elliot, they go through the motions of how the ceremony will go. Then it's time to walk back down the aisle. Avery and the little boy go first followed by Kate and Elliot.
Next is Christian and I. He offers his arm and I take it. I notice that pull I felt in that bar again but shake it off. I'm married. I'm married. I'm married. I'm married. I keep chanting this in my head all the way down the aisle.
"I already know you're married, Ana." Shit I said that out loud.
"You weren't supposed to hear that."
He laughs, "clearly."
At the back of the aisle, I let go and walk away quickly to end that conversation. I get dizzy and black out. I wake hearing voices from other people.
"Ana, baby." My husband says.
"She needs to go to the hospital." Christian says.
I open my eyes. "Ethan. What happened?"
"You passed out. We're going to take you to the ER, Ana. That shouldn't have happened."
I just nod. He helps me up to my feet "Can you walk to the car?" I shrug because I'm far too weak to talk and he picks me up and carries me bridal style to the car. Everyone gathers around and watches as we leave. Avery stays with Kate.
At the emergency room, the doctors ran multiple tests. Dr. Greene comes in with 'results'.
"It seems you're pregnant Mrs. Kavanagh. Congratulations. I look over at my husband who looks confused.
"What's wrong Ethan?"
"Is it a good time for this Ana?"
"Why wouldn't it be? We've been together 8 years. Avery is almost 10 and you're great with her."
"I never had to do the baby thing. Avery was a toddler before I came into your life. I don't think I can handle a baby."
I'm stunned by this revelation. "Well I will have this baby with or without you. There's no other options for me. I can do it without you if I have to. I have a support system."
"I'm sorry baby. I just can't." He gets up and walks out. I'm shocked. He's a fucking therapist but a baby makes him run?
I pull out my phone and call Christian. "Can you pick me up at the ER? Ethan seems to have walked out on me."
"On my way."
Twenty minutes later and Christian pulls up in an Audi r8 spider. That's right, billionaire. I keep forgetting. He gets out and comes around to open my door. "Thank you."
"My pleasure." He closes my door and walks around and gets in. "Why would he leave you like that, Ana? And are you okay?"
I shake my head. "I'm pregnant. He says he can't do the "baby" thing. Ironic, considering he helped me with Avery. Even if she was a toddler. He said babies are too much. I told him I was raising it with or without him and he left."
"That's fucked up. I'm sure if you had told me you were pregnant 10 years ago. I probably would've reacted in a similar way but I would've come around. I've grown up and at his age, he should be grown up in that aspect as well. I'm sorry, Ana."
"No worries. He has a problem then he can fuck off."
"Damn, you have a dirty mouth today."
"I earned the right to have a dirty mouth right now. A fucking therapist can't handle a baby. He helped raise my daughter but after 8 years he cannot accept a fucking baby. He's More fucked up than I thought."
"Relax. We are back at Mom's. Come."
He helps me out of the car. "By the way, that car is fucking hot!! I'll watch my mouth now."
He laughs. "me too."
We walk back into the backyard and my husband is nowhere to be found. I see Avery playing with some other kids. I walk up and pull Kate to the side to talk to her.
"Kate, I just found out I'm pregnant and your brother freaked out about how he can't have a baby and just left me. I don't know where he went."
"What the fuck?! Let me call him. Wait. You're pregnant?" I nod. "Holy shit!! Congratulations!!" she engulfs me in a bear hug. "You still manage to surprise me, Steele."
"I always wanted to make Avery a big sister but we'd never discussed it and today he just freaked out like it was the most horrible thing that could ever happen."
"I will talk to him. What did Christian say? And how did you end up coming back with him?"
"He gave me his number earlier when he talked to me. He told me that Ethan is his therapist and that he had spent all this time confiding in him about the mystery woman from the one night stand and how he couldn't get me off his mind. I'm not sure how this will pan out but he said he'd like to get to know Avery but I'm seriously very conflicted on whether or not to just tell Ethan. Especially after this shit. I need help here sis."
"We will figure this out. Let me handle my brother and then we can figure out when to tell him about Christian."
"Thank you Kate. Let's go eat."
"Let's go."
We make our way to our table. I sit next to Kate and the seat next to me is intended for my husband but it's empty. Christian is sitting beside Elliot with Mia on his other side. Avery is at the kids table, even though she insists she's no longer a kid.
"Where's Ethan?" Elliot asks.
"He had to run." I say Truthfully because apparently he thought he had to. I wonder when or if he will be back. This has never happened before. We've had a pretty happy and strong marriage aside from this. At least I thought so.
"Probably some rich client has him on call." Christian jokes. I glance and Christian and smile. Inside joke.
"Who knows where he went. Let's eat."
After we finish eating Kate informs me that Ethan isn't answering for her. I try calling as well but no answer. I ask Christian to use his phone since I'm sure he will answer for his highest paying patient. He gives it over and tells me which speed dial he has him on. Of course Christian has him on speed dial.
"Kavanagh."
"Ethan, where are you and why haven't you been answering for anyone?"
"I can't Ana. I'm leaving."
"What?! Leaving to where?"
"No. I'm Leaving you if you want to keep this baby. I can't do it. I can be a father to Avery because she is older. I can't have a baby."
"That's fucking ridiculous. Fuck you!!"
"It's realistic Ana. We've never discussed having more children for a reason. I don't have time for it. I have a demanding job and to be honest, I just don't want anymore kids."
"Your job is to talk to people and you never said a fucking thing about this to me." I glance up and see Christian staring at me, hearing everything. "Fine. If you want to leave, fucking leave but don't think that you can just walk back into our lives. This cluster fuck can't be unfucked. And while I'm venting, I found Avery's father."
"Who Ana?"
"Christian"
Silence.
"Ethan?"
"Well in that case, I hope you're happy together. It seems he has been in love with you since he met you."
"What the actual fuck Ethan? You know what? GO FUCK YOURSELF!!!"
I hang up and shove the phone into Christian's hand and run into the house. I go into the bathroom and lock the door and slide down it with my face in my hands and sob uncontrollably.
I know everyone heard me yelling at him and the only one I feel guilty about having possibly heard it is my daughter. Oh, I hope she didn't hear it.
There's a knock on the door. "WHAT?!"
"Ana, can I come in?" asks a concerned Christian.
I stand up and open the door and go sit down on the edge of the tub.
"I would ask if you're okay but the answer is obvious. You look like you could use a drink. What would you like."
"Give me some hard shit Christian. Actually scratch that. Seems booze is advised against for pregnant women. I'll take a tea. Did everyone hear me confess that you're Avery's father? Did she hear it?"
"No, she was upstairs with Mia. Still is and completely oblivious but everyone else heard and shocked is what a lot of people are right now. I'll get us some scotch and tea and we can hang out somewhere and talk privately."
"Let's go to the library. It should be quiet in there."
"Okay. Thank you for your help Christian."
"Anytime Ana. I've spent so much time calling you the mystery woman that it's a relief to be able to call you by your name." he smiles softly at me.
We walk into the library and close the door. "He said you're in love with me Christian."
"If I'm being honest, I think I am. I don't know you as you but there's something strong that draws me to you like you said that first night. Walking up to the bar here, I had serious déjà vu. What are the odds of seeing you the second time almost 11 years later is almost the same as the first time but in my own parent's house?"
"Yeah, it was pretty shocking. Elliot did tell me a lot that my daughter looked like his brother but I was pretty sure he was full of shit considering how much he jokes around."
"Couple that with the fact that your husband knows it's you whose virginity I took against a hotel room door now and I think it's fair to say that this may be the most awkward situation I've ever been in. Guess I need a new therapist."
"John Flynn. I see him. He's amazing. I call him an expensive charlatan."
"I'll look into it. Why would you need a therapist when you're married to one?"
"Well for a third party. My husband is my husband. He cannot give me sound advice about my life with him. Plus, certain patients keep him too busy at all hours. You really told him about fucking me against the door?"
He nods and I bust out laughing. Soon after he's laughing with me.
"Seriously. What are the odds of this? You spent years telling my husband about me and no one knew a damn thing about it until today. Shit, I need to speak with Avery before this comes from someone else. Care to join me?"
"Sure. Lead the way."
We come out of the library in search of Avery. We find her in the living room. "Avery, can I speak to you for a little bit?"
"Okay Mom."
We walk back into the library and shut and lock the door. She looks at me confused about Christian being there.
"Sit baby." Avery sits, nervously. "You know how Ethan is Daddy and how I've always told you he wasn't your only father, right?"
"Mom, is he my father?" she asks pointing at Christian.
"He is. How did you know?"
"He looks like me Mom." She looks at Christian, "Why haven't I met you before? Did you not want to be my Daddy?"
He looks at me for permission to speak and I nod. He kneels down in front of her. "I didn't know you existed before today. I only met Mommy once and we lost contact so I hadn't seen or spoken to Mommy in 10 years. I would've wanted you if I knew about you, sweetheart."
"So you're my other Daddy?" she whispers.
"Yes baby. I am."
"So is Ethan still my Daddy, Mom?"
"Yes baby. I know all of this is confusing. There's one more thing I need to talk to you about baby."
"Okay."
"How do you feel about having a baby brother or sister?"
She smiles. "I would like that Mommy. Would this Daddy be her Daddy too?"
"No baby. I don't think so but we will talk more about that later."
"Okay Mom. I'm so glad you found my Daddy. Maybe you can marry him now." I am shocked to hear these words come out of her mouth. I can see from Christian's expression that he's shocked also.
"Baby, I'm still married to Ethan. You don't just trade in husbands."
"Maybe someday Mom."
"You never know. Want to go back and play with your friends? We got to go soon."
"Okay." She gives me a hug and I give her a kiss on the cheek. She gives Christian a hug also. He let's her out of the room and I'm sobbing again. Christian comes and holds me.
"That was easier than I expected." Christian says.
I laugh. "Yeah. Didn't expect that reaction. Guess we should get back to the party and confront the thousand rumors that are probably flying around out there. Maybe my dumbass husband is back. I'm still so fucking mad at him."
"Me too. He should never have walked out on you like that. We do need to talk more soon though, privately."
"Agreed. Let's go."
We walk back out to the party and everyone gets quiet and turns to face us. I look at Christian.
"Okay, I'm Ana. You all know Christian. Almost 11 years ago I met Christian when I was working. Things happened. We never caught each others names. We couldn't find each other. He has a daughter. Her name is Avery Rose Kavanagh. It was Steele until my husband Ethan Kavanaugh adopted her around 7 years ago. Also, I passed out earlier because I'm pregnant by my husband, who took that as an opportunity to leave me. Any questions?" I look around. "Good. Glad we cleared that up." I announce as I walk towards Kate.
"Damn Steele, you got balls. Ready to go back to your place and finish this celebration?"
"Ready as I'll ever be, if I still have a home to go to."
"Let me go say goodbye to my almost husband."
I go out to start my Mustang but it won't start. Ugh! What a day?!
I walk over to Christian. "Can you give Kate and I a ride to my house. That is if I still have a home." I laugh sarcastically.
"Of course and if you have to move you and Avery can stay with me until you find another place. It's no problem at all."
I surprise him and give him a big hug and he hugs me back. "Thank you!"
Christian pulls around with his car and Avery, Kate and I get in. As we're driving down the road and I keep my thighs clenched together because this car makes me wet. The way it purrs. The gentle vibration. Mmm.
He drops us off out front of my house. I tell him to hold on so I can find out if I'm able to stay here or not. Apparently not because I walk in and he's sitting sprawled out on the couch and jumps up.
"Ana, you have to leave. You're no longer welcome here."
"Let me grab some stuff and no arguing. Avery is right here. We will argue some other time."
"Okay. Hurry up."
When did my husband become such a dick? I never would have married him if I knew he felt this strongly about babies. I pack some stuff including our dresses and accessories for tomorrow's wedding. I come out to the living room and Kate and Ethan are glaring at each other. They know not to argue because of Avery.
I give Kate our stuff and ask her to take Avery to the car and I'll be out shortly. After they walk out. I close the door. "Ethan, I don't know what the big fucking problem is about babies but apparently you have shit to work out. If you want us gone, then we're gone."
"How did you get here and where are you going to stay?"
"Christian and his place. Nothing romantic or sexual. Just a helpful friend."
"I don't give a fuck if you fuck him on my lawn at this point. You just need to go."
"I will have my stuff picked up Sunday. Don't lock me out please."
"Okay. I will be gone. I don't want to see you."
"You're a fucking dick. If I knew you were like this I never would've married you."
"Whatever. Go fuck loverboy. Out of my house!"
I walk out without another word. I should fuck loverboy. But clearly I won't. I'm married. Not for long, but I am.
I walk back out to the car. "looks like I'm homeless after all."
"You two will stay with me. No homelessness allowed." He smiles at me.
"Celebrate at Christian's?" I ask Kate.
"Definitely. I'm sorry about my brother Ana. I want to rip his balls off."
"Me too honey. Me too."
"If it wasn't so late, I'd kick him out of the wedding."
We arrive at Escala. "You live here?"
"Yes. Penthouse."
"Right. Billionaire. Kate told me. I'm possibly the only person on earth who didn't know who you were."
"Possibly."
We go up the elevator in relative silence. He shows me and Avery to a large bedroom. "This is normally my room but since you two may want to stay together after today you can have this and I'll take the guest room. I'll meet you downstairs after you get comfortable. I have another guest room for Kate."
"Thank you Christian but you didn't have to."
"You think I'd leave without a place to stay? Stay as long as you like. It's not an imposition at all. I'm working most of the time anyways."
"Well thank you anyways Christian."
"No problem."
Avery and I get into comfortable clothes and go downstairs to meet with Kate and Christian. I find them in the biggest room. I don't know how to refer to these enormous rooms. Kate is sitting on one couch and Christian is sitting down on the other across the room. I plop down beside Kate.
"Would you like something to drink Ana?" Christian asks.
"Tea please. Bag out. I'd like alcohol but apparently drunk and pregnant don't go together." I continue sarcastically.
Christian goes to fetch some tea and puts it down on the table in front of me. "Thank you Christian."
"Not a problem Ana."
"Did you hear what your brother said to me Kate?"
"I did and I want to rip his balls off and make him eat them but let's have happy talk now. I'm getting married tomorrow!"
"You are. Cheers!" I clink my tea cup with her wine glass.
Avery has since settled near Christian and is fidgeting with her hands in her lap. "Avery is everything okay?" I ask.
"You seem sad Mommy. What is making you sad?"
"Oh baby. Just grown up things. It's nothing for you to worry your pretty little head about."
"Okay Mommy. I heard things Daddy said to you. Why doesn't he want to be around us?"
Crap. How do I explain this?
"He is just having a hard day. Things should be better very soon sweetheart. I know he still wants you. He's just confused right now."
"Okay. Can I go to bed?"
"You can. Would you like me to walk you there or lay down with you?"
"Can this Dad walk me there since this is his house?"
"Of course baby. If he's okay with that." I say looking at him.
"I'll take you princess." He says. They get up and he offers her his hand and walks her to bed.
"Kate let's get you married and when you get back from your honeymoon it's required that we have a mild vacation and talk about adult stuff."
"No need to sugarcoat it Ana. You want to talk about what a fucknut my damn brother is."
"That is correct. I won't ruin anymore of your time till you're back from your honeymoon though."
"Deal. Want to play pool? I saw a pool table back there somewhere." She asks.
"Let's go."
I'm pretty good at pool. I worked at a bar and spent a lot of my time practicing against pool sharks. I got my ass kicked a lot but I was getting better all the time.
About 10 minutes into our game, Christian comes in.
"She okay?" I ask.
"Confused I think. She had a lot of information thrown at her today. I just stayed in the room until she fell asleep."
"Thank you."
"Will you stop thanking me? Really, it's my pleasure Ana."
"Habit. How are you doing?"
"Better than when I woke up this morning if I'm being honest. I'm very glad I found you and Avery."
I smile. "Kate, I would let you win as a wedding gift but I changed my mind." I smirk at her and hit every solid in as well as the 8 ball. I put the pool stick down and do my little happy dance. I turn around and they're both staring at me like my head is on backwards. "what?"
"What was that with you throwing yourself around like a fish out of water Ana?" Kate asks.
"Happy dance." I smile and start laughing because the expressions on their faces is priceless.
"Can I get a snack? Then I think I should lay down. I'm getting exhausted."
After some fruits, I head off to bed after giving Kate and Christian a hug.
I wake up early to the most annoying alarm on earth going off. Avery wakes up too and I fumble around looking for the offending alarm to shut it up. "CHRISTIAN?!?"
He comes running into the room in pajama pants.
"TURN THAT ANNOYING FUCKING THING OFF!!!"
He quickly turns it off. "Sorry, I forgot about that. I'd normally be getting ready for work but with the wedding… I just forgot to turn it off."
"it's okay. Tonight I think we'd be good in guest rooms so you can sleep in here. We don't need to share a room. I must say this is the most comfortable bed I've ever slept in though."
"Okay. What about your stuff?"
"I told him I'd get it tomorrow and he promised to be gone. His idea. Apparently me being pregnant repulses my own husband."
"I'll have my guys take you to get your stuff tomorrow and don't ever think you're repulsive. Anyone who thinks that is the one with the problem. Get dressed and have breakfast and you and Kate and Avery can get ready for the wedding."
"Th—I appreciate all this Christian. Everything is so messed up right now."
"It will be ok baby." He says giving me a hug and ahhh he smells amazing. His sculpted abs pressed against my body. And the pull is still there.
I'm not sure if it was seconds or minutes but I'm broken out of my thoughts by my daughter clearing her throat. I didn't realize I was still holding Christian. "I'm sorry."
"It's perfectly fine." He leans over and whispers in my ear, "to be honest that was the best few minutes I've had in almost 11 years." He looks at me and winks. "I'll see you downstairs." And then he saunters off like nothing happened.
After breakfast, Kate, Avery and I get showered and ready for the wedding. Makeup and hair stylists come over and get us all primped and ready. Christian has his men drive us back out to Belview so we can get dressed.
When we are getting dressed, Christian has gifts delivered for Kate from Elliot and for Avery and myself from him. A beautiful necklace and earring set for each of us. Clearly the most expensive thing we've ever worn but I will talk to him about that later.
"Are you ready Kate?"
"Nervous but ready. Let's do this."
Her dad, my father-in-law, comes and we all walk to the staircase. We walk in the order we did at rehearsal. When I get to the aisle, I see Christian with Ethan and Elliot at the end of the aisle. I flashback to my own wedding but keep composed as I slowly walk down the aisle. I make eye contact with Christian and focus on him as I walk down the aisle. He has the biggest most handsome smile on his face. I make my way to my spot and wait for Avery and Kate to make their way. After everyone is in place I glance over and see my husband and Christian. Christian is staring at me in admiration, while my husband looks conflicted, possibly angry.
After the ceremony, after Kate and Elliot, Kate and Avery make their way down the aisle, I take Christian's arm and he whispers, "You look stunning Ana." And I blush and smile as we walk down the aisle.
I take him off to the side and whisper back, "You're pretty handsome yourself Mr. Grey." And I kiss him on the cheek and walk off leaving him stunned.
Christian's POV
I'm still stunned that she just kissed my cheek. Hell, I'm stunned I found her here yesterday. I can't believe Ethan is being such a dick. If this wasn't my brother's wedding, I'd beat the fuck out of him.
Then there's the fact that I have a daughter. A half grown daughter. I can't be mad I didn't know her because neither of us could find the other and at that time, I probably would've reacted similarly to Ethan because of the way I was then.
"Dude, wake up." Elliot breaks me out of my thoughts.
"Huh?"
"You've been standing in this spot daydreaming for 5 minutes. Congratulations little bro."
"Congratulations to you too Lelliot."
"So that's the mystery woman you've been hooked on? I knew that kid looked like you."
"I think I'm still in shock, to be honest and yes that's her. Too bad she's married to YOUR brother in law. I can't believe how pissed he is that HE got her pregnant."
"Yeah, Kate is on a rampage. She's pissed and disappointed in him. Looks like he's talking to Ana now. Maybe we should go closer just in case he comes unhinged."
We walk closer and we hear what is being said.
"No Ethan. If you want me and Avery, you get the baby as well. I raised one baby alone and I can do it alone if I have to but I refuse to kill OUR baby so accept it or give me a divorce and FUCK OFF!" Damn she is feisty.
"Ana, you're not understanding. I cannot and will not raise a baby."
"But why? U just spent 8 years helping me raise Avery. What's your fucking problem?"
"It's complicated and I don't feel comfortable discussing it."
"Then fuck off. I'm having my stuff picked up tomorrow. Then you never have to see me again. This is ridiculous. I'm supposed to be your wife. YOU got me pregnant. I didn't do that by myself. I thought you were a man but apparently you're just a coward." She takes off her rings and puts them into his hand and he just stares at her. She walks past us and rushes into the house obviously crying.
"I will go talk to her." I say and Elliot nods and goes over to give Ethan a piece of his mind.
I search the house for the lovely distraught Ana. I find her in my childhood bedroom where we talked the other day. She is sitting on my bed and when she hears me she wipes her tears and looks at me. "I'm sorry." She says.
"Why are you sorry. You were brave. I can see this has taken a toll on you. Would you like to go home?"
"Not yet. I'll want to go early today though because this." She twirls her finger in the air, "is exhausting."
"I understand. Elliot is talking to Ethan. A lot of people are pissed at him. This behavior is atrocious."
"Can you hold me for a little bit until I calm down?"
I stand there shocked for a second, "um, yeah sure.." and I walk over and sit beside her and wrap my arms around her and hold her to my chest. I normally let no one touch my chest but her touch is… warm and inviting.
I smell her hair and it smells like an orchard. I close my eyes and savor the moment. This may be the last time this happens.
"Christian, why would a man in a seemingly healthy relationship reject the woman he 'loves' because she is now pregnant? Especially after he helped her raise her daughter for years? I don't get it. What possible reason could he have that makes sense?"
"I'm not sure sweetheart. I know if you had told me you were pregnant back then I probably would've freaked out as well but I would've came around. But the fact that he already helped you raise a child that wasn't his makes it baffling. Maybe he needs a therapist worse than I do."
She laughs. Hard. I can't help it and I join in. Eventually the laughter dies down and she straightens up beside me with her hands on my shoulders "Christian, thank you. I know you said to stop saying that but I need you to know how grateful I am to you." She leans up and presses her lips against mine gently. She pulls back but then she does it again more fiercely. I kiss her back and soon we're lost in a passionate kiss. I pull back and stop the kiss.
"Baby, as much as I want to kiss you, I can't do this under these circumstances. I don't want you to regret anything you do while distraught and not thinking clearly." She looks and me and nods her head and reaches up for one more soft kiss and I return it. Then she pulls away.
"Wanna go back to the party before people get suspicious?"
"Ready when you are."
We walk back to the party and I hold her hand until we reenter the tent. I kiss her knuckles and let her hand down and we walk back into the tent.
We go back to our table and I pull out Ana's seat. Ethan took my seat so I had to take his seat next to Ana. Not that I mind, but this is getting childish. We all awkwardly sit and eat our meal. I reach under the table and rest my hand on Ana's knee to comfort her and she grabs it with her hand and holds it.
"Ana, what doctor are you going to use?" Kate asked to break the awkward silence
"I hadn't thought about it. I'll call around Monday.".
"You should use Dr. Greene. I'm told she's one of the best." I suggest. She doesn't need to know I used to use her for all of my subs.
"I'll call Monday. Thank you Christian."
Ethan snorts as he takes a big swig of his whiskey. What is wrong with this guy?
"Ethan, is there a problem?"
"Not at all Christian. Nothing that we should deal with today anyways."
I know he's actually being courteous of the fact that today is Kate and Elliot's day.
After a highly uncomfortable meal, it was time to dance. After the bride and groom and parents dances, it was time for the wedding party so I get to dance with Ana. I'm doing so well controlling myself around her. I'm pretty proud of myself. I actually pushed her away when I could've gotten lost in her.
When we take our positions on the dance floor I hold Ana close to me and we sway with the music.
"I love Kate and I'm happy to be here for her but I wish I wasn't here anymore. He ruined this day for me."
"I understand that. Want me to take you home after this dance?"
"Please?" I nod.
She leans her cheek against my chest and we finish the song in silence.
We say our goodbyes and I notice Ethan is still sitting at the bar staring. "Elliot will you make sure he doesn't drive? Find someone to take him home?"
"Will do. Good to see you bro."
"Congratulations and enjoy your honeymoon."
I take Ana back to Escala and she informs me that Avery is staying the night with my parents.
When we arrive back at Escala, Ana asks to talk to me.
"Christian, I am going to ask you something that may seem strange but since you missed my pregnancy with Avery and my husband wants nothing to do with this baby, would you be interested in being my birthing partner? Go to appointments with me and just play the part of supportive father? I only wish I had that with Avery."
"Are you sure Ana?" She nods "I would be honored."
"Good. Now that that that's settled. I'm not used to sleeping alone. Can you just hold me? Nothing else."
"Sure."
"I'm still deeply attracted to you Christian but until I'm at least legally separated, I have no qualms with makeout sessions if you're interested but nothing sexual."
"Deal."
I cup her cheeks with my hands and kiss her softly. "You are the most beautiful woman I've ever met and I've never stopped thinking of and dreaming about you all these years. I've tried to see other women but they weren't you and it wasn't appealing at all."
"So you're the one Ethan used to talk about with the long lost love? Ironically, he was rooting for you."
"Most likely, that was me. Come. We should go to bed."