"I'm pregnant, Christian." She says preparing herself for a horrible reaction.
"How Anastasia? You're on the shot! DID YOU FORGET YOUR SHOT ANA?!?!"
"No Christian. I had them on time. I went to get my last one the other day but they gave me a pregnancy test first and…" she drifted off.
He starts pacing running his fingers through his hair. "I told you I don't want children Ana. You need to have an abortion or leave. I'll pay you either way."
Crying she screams, "I'M NOT KILLING MY CHILD CHRISTIAN AND I DON'T WANT YOUR FUCKING MONEY!! IF YOU DON'T WANT THE BABY, YOU CAN'T HAVE ME EITHER! This baby should come first. You're my world Christian, and always have been but this baby is innocent and deserves at least one loving parent so the choice is yours now. Me and blip or neither?"
"Neither. You need to go." He says with sadness and anger and possibly hurt in his eyes.
"Fine. But remember that I will always love you. I want nothing from you and if I leave now, I want a divorce and to never have to see you again. No going back Christian."
"Done. I'll file paperwork tomorrow."
She packs her stuff leaving everything that Christian bought for her. This is it. Nothing more of Christian Grey than this baby she was carrying. That's all she needed. She had a nest egg since she had been able to save all her money since she has been with him and it built interesting the bank.
Walking back into the great room with her suit cases, she finds him sitting on the couch in the great room. Putting down her baggage by the door she walks over to him and he stands up. She put her hand on his face. "I guess this is goodbye. I left everything you bought me. Like I said, I don't need it. I'm only taking this baby. I just want you to know that I hope you find happiness. You deserve it." She puts her hand over his heart. "You have a big heart and we both know it now. Use it. Don't let it die again. I love you Christian." With that, she gives him a chaste kiss and hug. He hugs her back hard and now they both have tears running down their cheeks.
"I'll always love you, Ana. I hope you find happiness and have a great life. I will miss you." He gives her another kiss and she walks away. They stare at each other until the elevator doors close with tears in their eyes. After the doors close, they both drop to their knees sobbing.
Taylor gives Ana a ride back to Kate's apartment. "Take care of him and yourself Taylor. I'll miss you all."
"Of course Ana. We will all miss you too. Here's my number in case you ever need anything, you can always call and I will help. No matter what it is."
"Thank you Taylor. I will keep in touch with you. Goodbye."
"Goodbye Ana. Take care."
"You too."
Ana
Four months have passed since their last goodbye and Ana still feels broken. She made the decision that she needs to leave Seattle and away from the memories of him. Being the CEO of Grey Publishing, she decided to hire someone to take her editors position and to leave day to day operations with her COO, Hannah. She decided to do everything else from a distance. After some consideration, Grey Publishing and $1,000,000 is the only thing she asked from Christian so she could move forward comfortably. She chose to move to New York and start over since the divorce is final. She doesn't know how Christian is but he didn't look well when the divorce was finalized. He looked like he hadn't been eating or sleeping well. Christian also signed over all rights to the baby so it would be a clean break. This upset Ana because a part of her hoped that he would decide to be a part of the baby's life someday.
When she arrived in New York, she decided to open a branch of Grey Publishing there but decided to rename it Steele House. Within 4 months she purchased an office space in the crossfire building, redesigned it and hired a full staff. The space had a very relaxed but lively vibe about it. Ana was succeeding in proving that she didn't need anyone's help.
Getting in the elevator on opening day she was met by and tall dark and handsome man who somehow looked familiar so she decided to introduce herself.
"Hi, I'm Anastasia Steele of Steele House." She extends her hand.
"Gideon Cross. This is my building. I'm pleased to meet you Anastasia." He says as he takes her hand and kisses it with a grin. Swoon.
"That's why you look familiar. It's a pleasure to meet you Gideon. You can call me Ana."
"Okay Ana. Would you be interested in meeting for lunch to discuss Steele House?"
Blushing, she responds, "Of course. Just let me know when and where."
"Lunch today. I'll come by and we can order in and eat in my office."
"It's a date. I mean lunch. Crap. Sorry, word vomit." She blushes again.
He laughs. "We can call it a date unless you're not available?" he says looking at her prominent 6 month baby bump.
"Date it is then Mr. Cross. And the baby's father isn't involved or interested in any way so he won't be an issue."
He flashes her his biggest panty dropping smile. "I'll come by at 11:30 then."
"See you then." He kisses her hand again.
She exits the elevator with her first genuine smile on her face since leaving Christian.
At 11:30 on the dot the handsome creature comes out of the elevator. Mmm.. he looks delicious!
"Miss Steele." He says while holding his hand out for her. In the elevator they ride to the top floor and she feels those familiar vibes that she always felt with Christian and looks at Gideon through her lashes noticing he obviously felt something too.
"What is it about elevators?" they both grin.
Entering Gideon's office, he is the perfect gentleman and opens the doors.
"Thank you Gideon."
"No problem Ana. I had my assistant order us Chinese. I hope you like it."
"My favorite! Aside from macaroni and cheese of course. "
He pulls out her chair for her. Again, a gentleman.
"So, where are you living Ana?"
"Currently staying at your hotel actually. I just moved here from Seattle 4 months ago. I wanted to have plenty of money to have an adequate place for the baby and I. The prices are so much higher here."
"They are. I can help you get a place and give you whatever you don't have yet. You don't need to have to stay in a hotel with being pregnant for that long."
"Only if you let me pay you back. My ex wouldn't stop giving me expensive things and it just annoyed me. I've always had a strong work ethic and I like to earn what I have."
"Independent. I like it. Sure, it's a loan. Find what you're looking for and call me and I'll help get you settled as soon as possible. You deserve to have your home ready before your baby arrives. Here's my card."
She takes the card. "Thank you Gideon. You're so kind." She gives him a kiss on the cheek.
When she sits back he puts his hands gently on her face. "You're so beautiful Ana." And he gives her a kiss on her soft lips. Ana kisses back with a passion she only had with Christian before. "Mmm.." she moans into his mouth.
"Gideon, I like you but we should take it slow. I just got divorced 4 months ago." She says.
"Of course, sweet Ana. I'll wait for you. There's something special about you that tells me you're worth the wait. Meet me for lunch again tomorrow?"
"Of course." She kisses him again. "we can do this though."
It's been a month and Ana has been extremely happy with Gideon. Their relationship has blossomed although they've decided to wait for sex until after the baby. Gideon helped her to purchase a brownstone overlooking central park. She got it furnished and decorated the nursery for her little girl. Steele house was thriving. Ana and Gideon have lunch together every day and he's offered to help raise the baby as his own. Ana is still skeptical because she is afraid that something could happen and the baby would end up hurt as well. He was understanding but let her know that her offer still stands. Kate is coming to visit her this weekend. Kate still doesn't know she is pregnant so she is concerned about her reaction but knows it will be okay. She plans to introduce her to Gideon.
Ana hasn't spoken to the Greys since leaving Seattle. She felt it would be best to cut all ties aside from Kate so that she's not constantly told about Christian.
The weekend comes and it's time for Kate to arrive. Gideon is here and helping her prepare a meal for her best friend. The doorbell rings and Ana walks to the door and opens to find her excited best friend and immediately pulls her in for a bear hug. Kate pulls away and sees her stomach and looks shocked. "Ana?"
"7 months."
"Is it?"
"Not anymore. Long story. Come. I have someone I'd like you to meet."
Kate still looks stunned and Ana knows to prepare for the Kavanagh inquisition.
"Kate, this is Gideon. Gideon, my best friend Kate."
"Nice to meet you Kate. Ana's told me all about you."
"I can't say the same. Ana? We need to talk."
"Be right back Gideon." She says as Kate pulls her out of the room. Ana brings her into her bedroom.
They close the door and sit on the bed. "Talk Ana."
"Okay. Christian didn't want a baby. The shot failed. I got pregnant. He wanted me to choose between him and the baby. I chose the baby. He tried to throw money at me. I said no. We were divorced and I only asked for Grey Publishing, now Steele house and a million dollars to get me started here. He signed away all rights to the baby. I moved here. 4 months later I met Gideon and we started dating. I thought all of this was better explained in person."
"Wow Steele. Christian said you divorced but refused to say why. We were all confused because you were so happy. The Greys all miss you. I let them know I still talk to you so I let them know you're good. Are you happy? That's all I care about."
"Very happy Kate. Gideon and I are taking it slow. He wants to be a part of the baby's life. I'm just not sure if I can trust him with more than that. Yet anyways. He wants to adopt her. As far as the Greys, you can tell them I'm pregnant but not how far along. I'd rather not let them know she's Christian's since he doesn't even want her."
"Your secret is safe with me. I'm glad you're happy babe."
"Let's go eat."
After supper Kate, Ana and Gideon talk about everything that's been going on in their lives. Kate can see that her friend is indeed happy and obviously falling in love, if she hasn't already.
3 months later.
The baby is a month old today. Phoebe Christina Steele. Ana and Gideon are in love with her and each other. They finally admitted their love after Phoebe was born. Ana decided to let Gideon be a part of the baby's life. He isn't on the birth certificate but he is now the father. She agreed after the first birthday if everything is still good that he can officially adopt her and have his name added to the birth certificate. Phoebe has Christian's eye color and shades of copper in her hair but it's mostly Ana's hair color.
9 months later
Ana and Gideon's relationship is strong. They finally made love when Phoebe was 6 months old and it was magical. Ana's glad they waited because it was worth it. Their relationship was even stronger than ever. Possibly stronger than what she had with Christian. He's such a great father to Phoebe. They put a daycare into Crossfire for Phoebe along with other employees children. Steele House is now among the top Publishing houses in the world. Ana is now a multimillionaire. Kate and Elliot visit regularly. Elliot noticed Phoebe looks like Christian but he doesn't ask questions because he knows how Christian is and knows he never wanted children. Neither tells Ana about Christian which makes her happy.
Gideon decided he wants to take Ana out to a very special dinner tonight. He has a surprise for her.
"Wanna tell me about this surprise Gideon? I hate surprises."
"Mmm.. No. Hopefully you will love this one baby."
"I hope so." They hold hands as they drive to their destination.
They pull into Del Posto and go in to their reserved table. After dinner he takes her to the Empire state building where he takes her to the 86th floor.
"This is beautiful baby!" Ana says in awe of the view.
"Only the best for you Ana."
She turns around from admiring the view to find Gideon on one knee holding a velvet box with a gorgeous but simple ring in it. She throws her hand over her mouth. "Gideon" she says.
"Ana, before I met you my life was dull. I lived every day just going through the motions. Then this beautiful lady walked into my elevator and took my breath away. Every day since has been the best days of my life. I can't imagine my life without you and I don't want to. Will you do me the extraordinary honor of being my wife, Anastasia Steele?"
"YES Gideon!! YES YES YES!!!!!!!"
With that he puts the ring on her finger and takes her into a bear hug and spins her around causing her to squeal.
Somewhere amongst the chaos paparazzi got pictures and the next day they were on the front page across the world.
It appears Gideon Cross is no longer on the market ladies. It seems Miss Anastasia Steele, former wife of Christian Grey has stolen his heart. This happy moment was captured at the top of the Empire state building last night. Congratulations to the happy couple!
"Babe, the world knows."
"Mmm.. good." He says with a kiss on her lips.
Ana's POV
I know when Christian sees these headlines he will try to interfere so I've decided to call him to attempt to get ahead of it although I'm sure he already knows.
"Grey" he answers.
"Christian, it's Ana."
"Ana? How are you?"
"I'm great! Have you seen the papers today?"
"I haven't. What's in it? Is everything okay?"
"Yes, I just wanted to let you know before someone else told you that I'm engaged. "
Silence.
"Christian?"
"Yes. I'm happy for you. Thank you for letting me know. I have to go."
"Okay. I.." he hung up. "Shit." This isn't good. He's pissed. Well he needs to get over it. He chose. I moved on. Period.
"Baby, everything okay?" Gideon asks.
"I'm fine babe. I called Christian to let him know we're engaged out of respect and he said he's happy for me in an angry tone and hung up on me so I know he is pissed. We should be prepared for anything. He's always been kinda crazy when it comes to me."
"We will handle it love." He kisses my head.
"I think you should adopt Phoebe now so he cannot try anything."
"We have the paperwork. Let's go file it."
"Let's go."
We file the paperwork and our daughter is now officially Phoebe Christina Cross, daughter of Anastasia Steele and Gideon Cross. I couldn't be happier.
6 months later
Phoebe is now 16 months old. She's walking and she adores her Mommy and Daddy. Today is our wedding day. Daddy and Mom and Kate and Elliot are all flying in. Kate is my maid of honor and Daddy is giving me away again. We decided on a modest wedding because it isn't my first. So only family and a few friends are here today.
Daddy was hesitant about our engagement at first considering it's my second but he was happy we didn't rush like Christian and I did. He also approved because of how Gideon accepted Phoebe. There's a prenup because I insisted because of our daughter and my businesses. I don't see us ending but it's better to be safe than sorry. This wedding is much more intimate and special than my last and hopefully this is my last wedding. That's the plan.
Daddy walked me down the aisle and gave me to Gideon and told him he better not hurt me or he would hurt him like Christian. Apparently Daddy had Christian beat up. I just found this out last month.
Christian hasn't tried anything yet. Doesn't mean he isn't planning anything. I know how he is.
After the ceremony we head to the intimate reception. Phoebe is in a high chair next to me and Gideon on the other side. This is my happy ever after. I know it.
We dance our first dance as husband and wife and then it's time for us to dance with our guests. I dance with a few people before I'm suddenly face to face with Christian. What?!
"Why are you here? How are you here?!" I'm pissed. He has come to destroy our day!
"I came to see you Ana Cross."
"You should go Christian."
"Just dance with me. Don't make a scene."
Reluctantly, I dance with him. I refuse to look at him. I notice Gideon watching us confused. Yeah babe, I'm confused too." What do you want Christian?"
"I want you and our daughter back Ana."
"She isn't your daughter Christian and never gonna happen. We are happy. Leave us alone." And I storm off. Gideon follows me. "We should go Gideon. Please get Phoebe."
We take Phoebe to our nanny and head to our honeymoon suite in silence. I just stare out the window.
"Baby, are you okay? What did he want?"
"He wants us Gideon. I am so fucking angry! I knew he was gonna try something but to try and ruin our wedding day? What the fuck?!"
"Baby, calm down. He will get you over my dead body! You're my family and I'm sure he knows that."
"Gideon, security needs to go up. He's insane when it comes to me. What if he tries to hurt you to get to me?"
"Baby, let's relax. I'll increase security tomorrow but let's forget about him and enjoy us for a while."
"Mmm.. okay baby." I kiss him urgently.
The next day I call Kate. I know her and Elliot are involved in him being there.
"Ana? You leave yet?"
"No. Why did you guys bring him Kate?"
"Whoa, Ana. Bring who?"
"Christian."
"We didn't. I didn't even see him Ana. Why was he there?"
"He said he wants me and our daughter. What the fuck?! I told him she isn't his daughter and that it's never gonna happen and left. How did he get in then?"
"You know, he probably paid someone off. You know how insane he is about you Ana."
"Ugh.. I'm gonna call and tell him to leave us alone. He made his choice. I told him that when I left. I'm so damn angry"
"Me too. I'll talk to him. I'll have Elliot talk to him also."
"Thanks. I'm gonna call now."
"Okay. Good luck. Let me know how it goes."
"Bye Kate. Love you."
"Bye. Love you too!"
We hang up and I decide I better talk to my husband first before I call his ass.
"Gideon?"
"Yes baby?"
"I'm gonna call and try to talk sense into Christian. Do you want into this conversation?"
"Yes baby. I'm here for you always."
I dial his number.
"Ana?" he says all happy.
"Yes and Gideon. Look, you need to leave us alone. You made your choice and I told you there's no going back. I'm happier than ever with my husband and our daughter. Ours, not yours. You signed away your rights long before she was born so stop please."
"You're mine Ana. She is not legally mine, nor are you but you both are mine. I won't stop until I have you back."
"Too late Christian. I WAS yours. Then you rejected us and now we're Gideon's, although we are not property so technically we're nobody's."
"Ana baby, you will always be mine. I WILL get you back."
Gideon interjects, "Christian, now is a good time to stop man. You made your choice so Ana made hers. Let her be happy. Let her go. You're only hurting her with this nonsense."
"I won't stop Gideon. I can't. Ana, I tried to move on. No one was you. No one could give me light like you could.."
I cut him off. "NO Christian! Stop this shit!! I'm married and not to you. You have no say. I told you to move on and you told me to. During the few months we were together we had nonstop drama. Pedophiles, exsubs, crazy bosses. I will NEVER leave my husband, the father of MY daughter. He was there for us from the moment I met him, unlike you. He had a choice and chose me and her. WE are a family. Thank you for my daughter but you haven't been needed and won't be needed again so quit the bullshit or I'll file harassment charges. Just fucking stop!!!" I hang up before he can respond.
"Damn baby! That was fucking hot!!" Now let's go celebrate."
"Mmm… Fuck me husband!"
"My pleasure."
Christian's POV
Life has been duller and lonely since Ana. I've tried to get back into the lifestyle but it doesn't appeal to me anymore. I dropped the contract before I even touched her.
I tried vanilla relationships but the sex was dull and I couldn't get off.
I couldn't stop thinking about Ana and the baby. I had dreams about them every night. I basically went back to acting like myself before Ana but worse. My employees got fed up but they just have to deal with it or leave.
I finally hired people to look after Ana. I've been getting pictures and updates about her since she was about 5 months pregnant. I was kept up to date on her pregnancy by my guys. As soon as I started seeing pictures of her with Gideon fucking Cross I became furious and jealous. I tried to accept it but nothing helped. When I saw pictures of him and MY child, that only fueled the fire. She calls him daddy. This is not fucking okay. I should've swallowed my fucking pride and accepted being a father but I really fucked up. When Ana called to tell me she was engaged, I was way beyond livid. That's when I put my plan into action. I will get my family back. I started seeing my family again and told them the whole story about what happened with Ana. Kate and Elliot were the only ones not surprised so I knew they already knew. Kate glared at me so I knew she knew I was up to something but I didn't give a fuck. This is when I started hanging out with Elliot more and began to start slowly milking information out of him.
Soon Elliot notified me that Gideon had officially adopted the baby. My baby. This is unacceptable.
Finally Elliot confirmed the date of the wedding. I wanted to go and object during the ceremony but decided to slip into the reception. When I saw her sitting with him and the baby, interacting like a happy family, I knew I had to get them back.
When it was time to dance I waited for my opportunity to slide in for the dance. The look on her face. Shock, anger, disbelief? But she was so beautiful.
After finally getting her to dance with me, I couldn't get her to look at me. She asked why I'm here and I informed her I was here for MY family and she went off on me informing me the baby wasn't mine and that it would never happen. What?! She stormed off and left with Gideon fucking Cross and my baby. MY baby and MY girl. I have to up my game. Knowing tonight he will be having MY wife is too much so tonight I'm drinking.
Ana's POV
2 Months later
We haven't been disturbed by Christian anymore the past 2 months but knowing him, he isn't done. I've been feeling sick a lot lately and I'm not sure why. I'm kinda terrified that I'm pregnant. Maybe it's because of Christian's reaction last time. I can't bring myself to take a test. I'm so scared.
"Baby, you've been sick a lot lately. Are you sure you're not pregnant?" he asks and I spit out my tea.
"Would that be okay?" I ask curiously.
"Of course baby. You make beautiful babies and seeing you pregnant is so hot!"
"Let's get a test then."
After getting some tests, Gideon comes back and I'm shaking because this is terrifying. I want more babies but does he?
After peeing on the stick I pace anxiously and he just stands there watching me curiously. "Are you okay with being pregnant again Ana?"
"Of course, are you?"
"Oh baby. I see what's going on now. I'm nothing like Christian. I would never push you away. I will accept you and any babies that come with you. I would love to have my own babies, especially with you." He holds me close. The timer dings. Moment of truth. I see PREGNANT on the screen I look up at him and he breaks into a huge grin. "We're having a baby!!!!!" He pulls me into a hug and twirls me around.
This. THIS is how Christian should have reacted. "We are" I pull him in for a kiss and it grows more passionate.
Today we're at my , OUR brownstone and Phoebe is back at the mansion with the nanny. Next thing I know, we're laying in a post coital embrace. "I'm sorry I was afraid. Last time I had a much worse reaction and we know how that ended up.
"I understand my dear. His loss. Now you, our daughter and this baby are my gain. I cannot wait to have dozens of babies with my beautiful wife."
"I love you G"
"And I love you Ana Cross"
Again, we get lost in each other.
6 months later
I'm now 8 months pregnant with twins. I am HUGE! I miss my feet! We're having a boy and a girl. Alexander and Gianna. We could have them at any time. Today is Phoebe's second birthday. Kate and Elliot and Mom and Dad are coming today. Kate tells me she knows Christian is planning something but she isn't sure what. She thinks Elliot may be feeding him information. She said that Christian admitted over a year ago to the family how things ended because of how I was pregnant and he didn't want a baby so he made me choose. Apparently all but Elliot still resent him for it. Elliot doesn't because he still gets a niece regardless. Elliot doesn't say much so I know she's right. He seems to just absorb everything said. Gideon's family loves me and Phoebe and now Alexander and Gianna. I do miss the Grey's but they are a package deal with Christian and I'm not ready to try and act normal with him.
Kate and Elliot are being married in 2 months. (They only postponed it because I can't travel now.) Tomorrow we're having her bachelorette party. Gideon is a groomsman because him and Elliot have become good friends while he and Kate visit but Christian is the best man and I'm the maid of honor. Phoebe is the flower girl. This means I'll more than likely have to dance with him. Ugh! So Christian is in town in preparation for the bachelor party as well. Luckily, he wasn't at the engagement party.
"What are you thinking about Ana?" Kate asks.
"Trying to avoid Christian and his obsessive tendencies. He still thinks I'm his Kate."
"Well we know you're happy without him so it will be okay."
"He will meet her Kate. What if he tries to tell her he's her dad?"
"I don't think he would stoop that low Ana. I'll make Elliot keep him away. You know Gideon won't allow it."
"You're right. I'm just paranoid."
"Can't I just dance with my husband and he can dance with Mia?"
"That can be arranged."
"Thank you." I kiss her cheek and hug her.
The time for the bachelorette party arrives and everyone is meeting at my brownstone. OUR brownstone. I'm still not adjusted to the "What's mine is yours" thing. See, Gideon is even more wealthy than Christian and I didn't think it was possible. Phoebe is with Consuela at the house but there are photos of us everywhere so I know Christian and Mia will see them. It's okay though. He is basically just the sperm donor. That was my own husband. Ugh. I still have love for him but I'm only IN love with MY husband. We have more passion than Christian and I did. Even some kinky fuckery. Some spanking and hot hot sex.
Elliot and Kate arrive with Mia and Christian. He stares at me so I drag the girls off to celebrate. We go to Gideon's club. I'm as big as a damn house so not many places will let me in but this place will because technically I'm an owner. I am wondering how my current and ex-husband hanging out is going. Awkward.
"Ana, where are you?" Kate asks breaking me out of my mind.
"Just thinking. Are you gals having fun? Special present is on the way."
Just then, Channing Tatum himself waltzes in and I'm pretty sure both these ladies just creamed their panties. I walk up to him and shake his hand casually and bring him back to our private booth. "Wanna go all 'Magic Mike' for these ladies?" I ask. "I'm all yours tonight. I'll do it gladly." He says.
I put my fingers under their chins to close their mouths. "Mia, Kate, Magic Mike aka Channing. Think you can behave? Let's go to our private room." Everyone here is staring now. I get my key out and let us into the private room and sit the drooling ladies on the couch. Channing struts his stuff and next thing we know, he's only wearing a thin piece of fabric over his impressive junk. I think I might be drooling at this point. Gideon isn't jealous at all. He knows I'm his. I can look as long as I don't touch. We throw a lot of money at Channing. That's on top of the hefty sum I paid for him. They don't know that though. Channing gives Kate a seductive lap dance. This is so fucking hot! After several sexy hours he's getting ready to leave and gives me a hug and a kiss on the cheek and rubs my tummy. "Thanks for coming."
"Anything for Gid's wife." I smile at him. After he leaves the room I know there's a lot of wet panties in the room.
"Oh my God Ana. Best present EVER!! How did you get him?" Kate says.
"Gideon went to school with him."
"Can I have your husband Ana?" Mia asks. I laugh hard.
"NO! Haha"
"Ana, can I meet Christian's daughter?" she asks. Clearly she is drunk.
"You can meet Phoebe but no, she isn't Christian's. He made sure of that. She is Gideon's and mine."
"I'm sorry. I wasn't thinking. I can't wait to meet her."
"Forgiven. Let's go ladies. I need some booty from my husband because THAT was hot as fuck!!"
We go home to my place to find 3 drunk men laying around the living room looking like fools. Elliot has writing all over him as he lays passed out only in boxers.
"What happened here?" I ask observing these drunk men. I'm clearly the sober voice in the house tonight. I give Gideon a hug and kiss. "let's go to bed. You guys can stay in the guest rooms down the hall. We are not to be disturbed. Understood?"
"Yes baby." Drunk Christian says. I shake my head.
"Kate, show him his room and make him stay there. I don't need his shit tonight. If you don't behave Christian, I won't hesitate to put your ass out like a dog. Don't fuck with me!"
I take Gideon into our room and help him undress. "Baby take your advil and lay down baby. I'll go get you some juice." I give him a big kiss and yes, he is way too drunk to perform tonight.
I walk back down to the kitchen and go to get Gideon a glass of juice when I feels hands around my waist. Gideon? I turn around. "Christian! Go to bed!" I push him away and he falls on his ass and laughs. "Get up and go to bed." I grab his hand and manage to help him up and decide to walk him back to bed.
"You're still so sexy Ana. I wish I could've seen you pregnant with our baby."
"Mine and Gideon's baby." I walk him into his room. "Go to sleep Christian."
"We need to talk Ana. I still love you."
"Not tonight. Good night." I close his door and try to regain my composure. I grab the glass of juice and walk back to the bedroom. I put it on the end table by Gideon when suddenly I have a damn contraction. "FUCK!? GIDEON!"
"Ana baby, are you okay?" he asks.
"Clearly not! Your spawn have decided today was a good day to RIP out of my stomach. Call your driver. You're in no shape to drive."
"On it. I'll get your bag. Grab Kate since you want her there."
I make my way down the hall and bang on Kate's door. "Kate!? The stork is coming!?"
She opens the door naked. "let me get dressed." Just then another contraction rips through me.
"MOTHER FUCKER!! Why don't men have to go through this shit?" once I regain my composure, I finish, "meet me downstairs."
After Gideon and Kate make their way to me we go outside and here I am riding with two drunk people headed into the hospital. Another contraction rips through me. "Gideon I love you but in this moment, I also hate you!"
"Hate all you want baby I'm not going anywhere." He says kissing my forehead.
"I apologize in advance for how mean I'm gonna be to you until this is over baby"
"Forgiven already. We have been through this already, remember?"
"True. AGHHHH! FUCK THIS IS HAPPENING QUICK THIS TIME. THESE BABIES WANT OUT!!"
We finally get to the hospital and less than 30 minutes later Alex and Gia are here. "Baby, you did great. They're beautiful like their mother."
"Mm. You're pretty beautiful yourself tiger. I was gonna ask for sex tonight because Channing made us all super hot but you were too drunk. Then these two decided to come. Can you go home and freshen up? You reek of booze and I need you clean for the babies. They won't be back for an hour anyways. They're going down to the nursery for a bit to get cleaned up."
"Yes baby. I'll be back as soon as possible. I love you and thank you for giving me this great gift."
"I love you too baby."
Hours go by and now I've fed both babies and Daddy still isn't back. I've tried to call but no answer. I call Kate. "hello?"
"Kate, is Gideon there? He was coming home to clean up."
"I've been in the living room and he hasn't come in. Call the other house?"
"I will. Love you!"
"Hello?"
"Consuela, has Gideon come home?"
"Let me check, Mrs. Cross."
"No, Mr. Cross hasn't been in." now I'm thinking the worst.
"Have him call if he does. Thank you Consuela. Give Phoebe a kiss for me when she gets up. I'm in the hospital. I had the babies. He went to shower but never came back."
"Congratulations and I will."
All the sudden there's a knock at the door. "Come in."
Two police officers. Fuck! "Are you Mrs. Anastasia Cross?"
"Y-yes, how can I help you?"
"Your husband was in an accident tonight. He was hit by a drunk driver."
"How is he?"
"We're sorry ma'am. He didn't make it." Suddenly I'm sobbing hysterically.
"Did you get the drunk driver? Who was it?"
"The other driver was Ben Davis. He was also killed on impact."
"Thank you for letting me know."
"We will need you to identify his body when you're feeling up to it. The driver is in surgery. He should be fine."
They leave. I need Kate.
"Ana?"
"Get a cab and come to the hospital NOW!"
"What happened? Are you okay?"
"No. Gideon… drunk driver.. COME!!!"
"Oh Ana. I'm on my way."
Five minutes later she is by my side holding me.
"Tell me what happened"
"They were hit by a drunk driver Kate. He's gone. I lost him!" I'm sobbing inconsolably. "Can you hand me my babies. I need to calm down."
She hands me Alex and Gia and I'm holding them one on each side. "Your daddy had to go to heaven and be with the Angel's. He will visit you in your dreams. Mommy has got you babies." I kiss them both and finally calm down. "I need you to take them. I need to call his family."
She takes the babies and I call his parents and tell them what happened. Good and bad.
The next day the rest of the crew from the house comes. Christian and Taylor included. I'm curled up in a ball crying. "Ana? Are you okay?"
"I'll never be okay.. he is gone."
"What do you mean? Where's Gideon?"
"He was killed by a drunk driver."
"Oh Ana." Christian grabs me and holds me.
"I don't know if I can do this alone. My husband. The father of my children."
I lay back down. "Taylor, it's good to see you again."
"Congratulations Mrs. Cross. And I'm so sorry about your husband."
"Thank you Taylor. How can 3 hours be both the best and worst of your life? This is not fair."
"We will all be here for you Mrs. Gr—Cross. I will temporarily stay even if Mr. Grey doesn't. Is that okay sir?"
"Yes Taylor. Anything for Ana. Do you need anything Ana?"
"My daughter. She needs to meet her siblings and I have to figure out how to explain to her that Daddy isn't coming home. Kate, can you call Consuela please?"
"Of course."
An hour later, Phoebe is here and I ask everyone but Kate to leave the room.
"Phoebe baby, we need to talk."
"Yes Mommy? I saw Daddy in my dream last night he said he had to go but that he would always be in my heart."
"Oh baby. Daddy did have to go to be with angels. He's in heaven now but he will always be in your heart. How do you feel?"
"I'm okay Mommy but I will miss him."
"Me too baby. Me too." I hold her and Kate and I are in tears.
The next two months are a blur. I felt like I was just going through the motions. Everyone from that night has stayed with me and helped with the kids and held me and cried with me and cheered me up.
Today we're back in Seattle for Kate and Elliot's wedding. Consuela and my personal security, Sawyer who transferred to my team to help came as well. I'm numb but I put on a smile for Kate. This is her day. The babies are in the wedding as well now. Ring bearers. Mia brings them down the aisle in a wagon. I smile.
After the ceremony we walk back down the aisle and Christian puts his arm out for me and I take it. I can't forgive him for what he did to me but he has been so kind and helpful to me since all that happened with Gideon.
At the reception, it's time to dance. I am dancing with Christian again and Mia is dancing with Ethan.
"May I?" Christian asks.
"You may." He holds me and I put my head on his chest and we sway to the music.
"I'm so sorry you're going through this Ana. I wanted you back but I'd never wish this on you."
"I know. Thank you for all your help. I've got to hire more help now. I can't expect you all to keep helping me. You've all got lives to get back to and I've got a lot of work ahead of me in a couple months when I go back to work."
"It's been a pleasure to help. Mrs. Taylor wants to come help and of course Taylor will be coming with her. He can also help Sawyer with your security."
"You need Taylor Christian. Sawyer is enough. And Gail and Taylor got married?"
"about a year ago and Taylor needs Gail more. I've got 4 men helping me until he returns."
"Thank you. Looks like we both have an empire to run now. Ugh!"
"On the bright side, you're officially richer than me."
I glare at him. "Seriously?! You know I don't give a fuck about money!?" and I storm off to the bathroom and sob.
Grace comes up behind me and puts her hand on my shoulder. "Ana, darling." I hug her tight. "It will get better in time. He will always be with you."
"Thank you Grace but I'm not sure I believe I will ever be okay again. I will be strong for the kids but without him, who am i?"
"You are who you've always been Ana. A strong independent woman. It will always hurt but the more time goes on it will feel better." She says.
"Thank you Grace. You've always been another Mom to me. I'm sorry I didn't keep in touch. It was just too much."
"I understand dear. Tell me about these babies."
"Phoebe Christina Cross is 2 years old. Alexander Gideon Cross and Giana Anastasia Cross are 2 months old. Here's pictures."
"Oh my! They are beautiful and they have beautiful names. Phoebe looks just like… Oh.. I'm sorry."
"No, don't be. Gideon adopted her when she was 10 months old but we started dating when I was 6 months pregnant. They're all perfect."
"I would like to meet them."
"I'll have my nanny bring them over tomorrow. Phoebe is so smart. She is only 2 but talks like a 7 year old."
"Christian a genius as well. I look forward to meeting them."
"We should go back to our tables before they think we ran off. Do I look okay?"
"Beautiful darling." She kisses my cheeks. "let's go."
I stop at the bar for some wine on my way back to my table. I take the whole bottle. I need it. I get back to my table and Christian is waiting for me. "I'm sorry Ana. I was just trying to make a joke. A bad one, obviously. I didn't mean to upset you."
"It's fine. I overreact. This is a lot to take in. Wanna share wine?"
"Sure." He pulls out my chair and sits down beside me and we drink and talk, finally. I tell him about Steele House and how we have grown to be top Publishing house in the Northeast. He is clearly proud of me. "I knew you would be great."
"Well I had you and Gideon to steer me in the right direction. Go get more wine!"
"On it." He takes off and comes back with two bottles and we laugh and talk. We decide to be friends. I forgive him but let him know I can't just take him back.
"I'm glad we can be civil. I know if we had tried to talk 2 to 3 years ago it would've just been a fight. So how long have you had me followed Christian?" he looks shocked that I know. Ha!
"A couple months after you left. How did you know?"
"Please. You act like I don't know you and your stalker tendencies."
"Good point. You talked to Mom?"
"I did. She helped me with my freak out. I love your family.. and you… I feel bad I abandoned them to avoid you."
"I'm sorry too. Its my fault. I shouldn't have threw you out of my life."
"I'm glad you did though because I met Gideon and had the kids. No offense."
"Good point. I can come visit on weekends to help. I have my own place so I won't need to stay with you."
"No please. If you insist on coming stay with me. It's the least I can do for all your help."
"if you insist."
"I do. Want to come on vacation with us? I'm going to Tahiti to help out some poorer communities next week. I have a villa there now thanks to my husband. He's charitable like you but in a different way than you. You can bring your family. Anyone that wants to come. I have a few jets. I know you have one but it's my idea and our cause so I insist on taking our transportation. I want to get it done before I go back to work."
"I'd love to. You and Gideon are great people. I may not have liked him at first but if I hadn't been so jealous we could've been friends. He really loved you, probably more than me. I know you loved him too. That's why I backed off. I saw how happy you really were."
"He is.. was a great person. I can't believe he left everything to me. I want to make donations to several charities. He left some for them but I think more needs to be done."
"You're so amazing Ana."
"One more dance and then I should get back to my kids?"
"After you." He holds out his hand.
We get on the dance floor and sway with the music and I lay my head on his chest and his chin is on my head. I can feel a lot of eyes on me. I look up and sure as shit, here comes Elena Lincoln.
I look at him. "You should deal with that. I have to go." I kiss his cheek and leave. As I'm walking away I notice him in a heated argument with her and I see them looking at me so I walk off.
The next day I take the kids back to Grace and Carrick's house.
I take Consuela and Gail with me. I grab Alex and Gail grabs Gia. Consuela holds Phoebe's hand. The door opens as we approach. Grace and Mia are standing there. "please, come in. Welcome."
We go inside and they all first admire Phoebe. Clearly amazed how much she looks like Christian. I think I should allow them to be her family. She needs all she can get right now and technically they are her family. Christian is here and greets me with a kiss on the cheek. He's being so respectful. It surprises me. As we sit in the living room with everyone admiring the kids I decide to make an announcement. "Hey. I've been thinking. You all know how Phoebe's Gideon's daughter? Biologically she is still Christian's so I thought if you all wanted you can be her family as well although I'd rather not divulge the d-a-d part to her. She deserves more love and family. They all do. It's up to you."
Next thing I know I'm in Grace's arms. "We'll all be all their family. Grandma, grandpa, aunts and uncles. Christian can be uncle Christian, right Christian?"
"Of course." He says.
"Mommy, why did you spell Dad?" Phoebe asks.
Everyone looks shocked. I lean down to her level. "Baby, we will talk about that when you're older but for now, these people are also your family. Nana Grace, Papa Cary, Uncle Christian and Aunt Mia. Is that okay?"
"Yes Mommy. I love more family!" I give her a kiss.
"Good. Let's Get you cleaned up for lunch. Christian, can you take her to get cleaned up? I need to feed the babies. "
Come on Phoebe. Let's get cleaned up baby girl." Christian says as he walks off with her.
I feed the babies and let Gail and Consuela lay them down and join everyone for dinner.
"She's very smart Ana. You weren't kidding. I've never heard a 2 year old that can talk so well and spell."
"She can also speak Spanish. Consuela teaches her. She knows not to talk it to me though because I have no idea what she is talking about." We all laugh.
"You and Gideon did an amazing job with her Ana." Christian says.
"Thank you. Helps that she is kinda a genius." I wink. "I'm heading back tomorrow and I guess Gail and Taylor will be joining us. The jet will be ready at 10 am. Christian have you told your family about Tahiti?"
"Not yet. Ana has invited us all to her villa in Tahiti next week to help with some relief work. All of us."
"Oh how lovely! I'd love to! Cary, Mia?"
They both say yes they just need to rearrange their schedules.
"You can stay as long as you'd like. You don't have to help with the relief work if you don't want. Christian will you help? There's some manual labor, so I'm not sure if a business man like yourself can handle it."
"I love a challenge." Everyone laughs.
We spend the rest of the day chatting and playing with the kids. Christian teaches Phoebe a fairly easy song on the piano and she gets it on the first try. Obviously everyone is amazed with her.
When it's time to go, Christian walks us to the car and helps them buckle in the kids and talks to me. "Just so you know, I'm here for you always. As a friend of course. I expect nothing more. Everything I do will be out of love for my FRIEND. Absolutely nothing more and I will never try anything with you unless you ask me to. Okay?"
"Thank you Christian." I give him a hug. "I will contact you regarding details about next week but as of now, My jet takes off Thursday. I can send the other jet Saturday for everyone else. You can come in either if you want. It's up to you. I've got to go so take care."
"You too Ana. I'll contact you."
The following Wednesday, Christian comes to fly out with my family. My in laws also join us. At first they are questionable about my friendship with Christian but quickly realized that it's simply that, a respectable friendship. Christian has developed a relationship with the kids as an uncle. He continues to be amazed by how smart Phoebe is. I now know Christian better than I did when I married him.
Two years later
It's been 26 months since I lost my love. My heart is slowly getting better but I doubt I will ever get over losing the love of my life. We've been primarily staying at the mansion when we are home. I refuse to stay at the Brownstone because that's the last place I spent time with my husband before I went into labor. I let my guests stay there but they know the master bedroom is off limits. Christian stays in our guest room in the mansion when he is in town because I've bonded with him since the death of my husband over the past 2 years. He is now my best friend. Phoebe is 4 and the twins are 2. Phoebe started Kindergarten a year early because of her high IQ and she excels. The twins are doing well. They are actually quite intelligent as well. They don't speak quite as well as Phoebe did at their age but it's close.
Kate and Elliot have a daughter as well now. Ava Rose. She is one. Cross Industries is as strong as ever. I let Gideon's right hand man, Scott cover day to day operations and I mostly stay behind the scenes for that and handle my Steele House CEO and Editor work. Over the past couple years, I've gotten back into Krav Maga. Before Gideon's death, he and I had practiced religiously until I was heavily pregnant.
Mia and Ethan are now in a relationship and I see the Greys on a regular basis now and my kids accept them as extended family. Today Christian will be joining me to spar because he thinks he is better than me. I'll show him.
"I hope you're not a sore loser." I taunt him.
"I could say the same." He says all cocky.
We bump knuckles and back up.
"Begin" says Taylor.
We have an audience too. Everyone gonna see Christian get his ass handed to him by me HA! Elliot, Kate, Mia, Taylor, Sawyer and Ethan all joined us in my gym. The kids are with Consuela and Gail.
We circle each other then he throw the first punches and I dodge and take out his knees. He falls to the mat and he gets back up. He smirks and I give him a roundhouse knocking him onto his stomach and I straddle him and put him in a chokehold and he taps out. I get up and offer him my hand. "You okay cowboy?"
"I'm fine sweetheart. Let's go again."
We go 2 more rounds. Both times I take him down. "I hope you aren't letting me win. I don't need you treating me differently than a man in here."
"One more round. I'm not taking it easy on you though. You're just getting lucky."
This round, I take him down the first hit and he taps out again. "HA!"
Everyone is cheering and laughing, shocked at what they just witnessed.
"You're good. You got me good." He says shaking my hand congratulating me.
"Thanks. Gideon taught me. And I resumed training after Kate's wedding to take my mind off things. I kicked Gideon's ass a few times though." I smile and hug him. "Now, you owe me dinner."
"Let's get cleaned up and get to it, madam."
"Mmm.." I wink teasing him.