MOVIES
Christian's POV:
"You sound tired" Ana observes. I had been trying to hide my exhaustion and thought that I had managed to do so over the phone. However, my wife is able to take notice of even the smallest change in my voice, even when she is thousands of miles away.
"Since the girls had a student free day, they have been here since the morning. Eliot and I hit the gym pretty hard. After the girls asked to go into the pool, so Elliot and I did laps at the same time, before they cooked with Gail." I neglect to mention that I haven't been sleeping well these last four nights. I never sleep well without Ana.
"You and Elliot were trying to outdo each other again weren't you?"
"Yes," I laugh.
"You and your brother are such adolescents when left alone together,"Ana's voice is playful.
"I know." I laugh confessing.
"I am happy for it!" Elliott and I lost so much time, until Ana came into my life, that we seem to make up for it now. "What have the girls made for dinner?"
"They refuse to say, just like they won't tell us what movies they want to watch tonight." I roll my eyes at the thought. "Are you and Kate still going out tonight?"
"Yes. Ryan is going to remain at the apartment with Ted. He wants to order pizza, drink soda and play video games with the luxury of not being interrupted by Phoebe. Actually, Kate and I are heading out in a matter of minutes. Also before you ask, yes Sawyer and James are going to tag along." Thank gosh I insisted on sending extra security. Elliot and I may be adolescents together, but Ana and Kate manage to get in trouble together.
"Just behave Anastasia." I can't help but grin, knowing exactly how my delectable wife is reacting.
"I will try to, Sir." Ana responses playfully. "Phoebe was excited over tonight when I spoke to her earlier. Gosh, I miss her, even her long-winded stories."
"I have enjoyed today, though that is likely to change when I see the movies the girls have chosen." I cringe just thinking about it.
"At least Phoebe and Ava are over their Disney Princess fascination. " Ana reminds me.
"And for the first time, I am not. Our children are growing up far too fast." I sigh silently. I feel like that is the one sentence I say too often each day. "Can you remind Ted that he and I are going out on the boat on Sunday?"
"I won't need to remind him. He has been talking about your day trip ever since he got back to the apartment."
"Damn I miss you both. That's it, no more trips apart. If one of has to go on a work trip then the other has to come. "
"I would like to agree but I don't know if that is possible."
"We are the CEO's of our own companies. If we can't make our own rules, then who can? I love you. I want you and Ted to hurry home tomorrow."
"As fast as the jet travels. Kiss Phoebe for me."
"I will."
"I don't want to hang up." My sentiments also.
"Me either." I hesitate hanging up, but another pair of blue eyes, identical to Ana's force my hand. I study Phoebe, making another memory of how she looks at this age and how much more she looks like Ana, with her perfect skin, big powder blue eyes and petite frame. Phoebe will be taller than Ana but not by much I suspect. "I love you, Anastasia. I will see you tomorrow. "
"Love you too Fifty. Bye." I laugh out loud at her reference, causing Phoebe to look at me curiously. I hang up at the same time as Ana.
"What was so funny?"
"Your mother just reminded me of an old joke, from a long time ago."
Ted and Ana are in New York. They have been gone for four days and return tomorrow. Our son, along with several other classmates, were chosen to participate in a linguistic program at Dalton. Ana took this opportunity to attend a two-day literary symposium that was scheduled at the same time. If I didn't miss my son so much, and Ana miss Phoebe, then would I would have my parents look after the kids this weekend, throw Ana over my shoulder, like the cave man that I am, and fuck her seven shades of Sunday. Kate flew over also for a quick visit with her parents and some girl time with Ana.
Phoebe and Ava requested a combined father and daughter evening. The result is a father and daughter sleepover, dinner and movie night. A night of preteen movies is going to be..difficult, for Elliot and I, but for our daughters, we will cope.
"I am going to need that Dad." I cock my head at Phoebe 's statement, not exactly comprehending. Her twelve-year-old hand is held out flat for me. "Your cell phone. I need it!" I bend down and so I am at her height level.
"Did you want to talk to your mom again? She misses you and wanted me to give you a kiss." Phoebe spoke to Ana before I did, but I know she misses having her mom home. This is one girl that is going to be glued to Ana the second she lands at Sea-Tac. When I take Ted out on Sunday, they will spend the day together. The nights, I am claiming, then I am reclaiming every part of Ana. The kid's bedtimes are going to be strictly observed tomorrow night regardless of it being a Saturday night. Ted will be tired from traveling and I am going to let Phoebe stay up late with her cousin tonight, so she will want to go to bed early tomorrow. Regardless of the time, Phoebe goes to sleep, Phoebe always manages to wake up at half-past six to seven in the morning.
"I don't need to. I can talk to mom tomorrow morning before she flies out. Then I will see her and Ted when they get home. Can we still go and pick them up at the airport? "
"Of course," I tell Phoebe softly and kiss her forehead. Damn, soon I won't need to bend down far. I cherish these times with her. I wonder if I can prevent her becoming a teenager.
"Awesome. Now can you give me your cell phone?"
"My phone?"
"Yes. The very one in your hand." She says pointedly. I notice that Taylor has appeared and in his hand is an iPhone with a dark brown leather cover. It's Elliot's. I cock my head. What are these two twelve-year-old girls up to?
"Mr. Grey, I will take any calls that come through." Taylor smiles at Phoebe when she gives him the thumbs up.
"But dad, you won't get told about any messages or calls until tomorrow, unless they are really important." Phoebe dictates. "Ava has taken Uncle Elliot's phone. Tonight is a no cell phone evening." My faith in Taylor to be able to differentiate between an urgent and non-urgent call and my daughter's sudden need to have me uncontactable compels me to relent. Fuck! Why am I giving up my cell phone on the same evening that Ana is out with Kate?
"You know that even if I had my cell phone on me, you have my full attention, just like always. Also, it's a Friday night. I rarely get calls." I clarify studying Phoebe's reaction. I might run a multibillion-dollar company but my family always comes first.
"True, but still." Phoebe shrugs and then looks at the head of my security. "Thank you Taylor" He winks at her, before nodding once and walking away with the cell phones.
Phoebe takes my hand excited. I pray she never learns how much she has me and Taylor wrapped around her little finger. "Come on Dad, Uncle Elliot and Ava are going to be waiting for us in the living room."
'You took forever!" Ava exclaims when we arrive in the room.
"I know. Sorry, but have you ever tried to take my dad's cell phone from him. Plus he was on the phone with my mom. They can talk forever on the phone! They were being all lovey-dovey! You know how my dad can get." Phoebe shrugs. Elliot smirk and shakes his head at me. He is going to remind me of this every chance he can.
"Tell me about it! I had to stop my dad from ringing my mom, for the third time today, or else he would end up in the bedroom talking to her for probably longer. He gets emotional away from her." And just like that, the smirk on Elliot's face is wiped clean. Thank you, Ava!
"Okay, there girls, enough talking like we aren't even here." Elliot mildly scolds them. "You both have our undivided attention."
"Excellent. Now you both need to go and get changed." Changed?
"Thank you, Gail." Phoebe spots her before anyone else. In her hands are two shopping bags. Taylor has returned also. "Dad this is yours and Uncle Elliot this one is yours. You two get to match! Ava and I are going to match also." Elliot and I look inside the bag. Matching pajamas? Even Grace never made us wear matching pajamas.
"This is close to mutiny." I declare.
"Are Gail and Taylor in trouble?" Phoebe asks worried, biting her lip. A trait inherited from her mother.
"No" I reply softly. I am not particularly supportive of the fact that they have both failed to disclose that they were helping the girls, though at the same time I am happy that they did. Taylor and Gail are the only staff that lives on our property full time and therefore is a big part of the kid's lives. Ana and I take a lot of relief knowing that they're also around for the kids, should they need them. One thing I have learned as a parent is that it takes a village to raise a child.
"Then in that case and since I don't know what mutiny means, I will be able to live with it. Ava and I are going to go to my bedroom to get into our pajamas." She giggles, before taking her cousin's hand, running upstairs.
Elliot pulls out the pajamas and if I wasn't in the same boat, I would never let him live this down. "Seriously bro, if it wasn't for our girls… there is no way! No chance that I would wear these. Good thing that they took our phones away. No photographic evidence." I nod in agreement, shrugging and heading off to get changed. I don't mind the dark blue long sleeve top, though the printing on the pocket and the white pants with brightly colored dots, and patterns on the circles is a challenge. The girls definitely choose these themselves.
Arriving back downstairs, Elliot is in the kitchen checking out what Gail is laying out for dinner. She is trying not to laugh as she sees my brother and I dressed.
"You know what, I at least make these pajamas look good." Elliot jeers.
"You are right." I remain impassive and allow Elliot to bask in thinking he got the upper hand for once. "But my skills are in Mergers and Acquisitions, and yours is in construction. Gail, you still have your cell phone on you?"
"Yes."
"Perfect. Please take a picture of my brother and send it to Mia for a second opinion. Also, send it to Kate, Ana, and our mother. Ask them if Elliott makes these pajamas look good. They are far more astute at fashion."
"Nice one! Gail ignore my brother!" Christian, one million and one, Elliot a big fat zero.
"Dad you look great!" Ava accounts. She and Phoebe are wearing pale pink pajama pants with a black unicorns print and a matching sleeveless grey top that says 'make your own dreams'. Phoebe takes note of the change in demeanor, cocks her head to the side and walks over to me.
"Are you okay dad? You look a little pale." Phoebe places her hand on my face. I reciprocate by placing mine over hers.
"I am. It's just… you look really beautiful and I..." I stop speaking, not wanting to say it.
"And what?"
"When you walked in you looked older." I fear I may have to commence to accept that Phoebe is starting to grow up. Next year she will be thirteen. A teenager. I don't think I am ready for this at all. Before I can elaborate, Elliot calls out.
"Hey hotshot, let eats!" My chain of thoughts is broken. Elliot, true to his nature, is digging in.
"I will leave you all to it. Girls, the movie snacks are on the counter and in the fridge,"
"Thank you, Gail." The girl's state in unison. I check out the selection of food. While I have eclectic, tastes in music, the girls have the same in food. There are homemade hot chips, pizza, sushi, a greek salad, a broccoli salad and mac and cheese.
Less than thirty minutes later the girls are scanning the movie selection. The first movie is mine and Elliot's worst nightmare. Not just a preteen-teenage movie, but one featuring cheerleading. The girls position themselves in the middle of the couch. The girls watch transfixed, chatting here and there in relation to the movie.
"I think I want to be a cheerleader," Phoebe announces causing me to almost choke on my beer. Not if she is going to become like the characters in the movie.
"Me too. " Ava agrees wholeheartedly "We should start doing tumbling classes at our dance school. It will make it easier for us to make the squad. We need to enroll in those classes on Monday."
"No chance!" Elliot and I call out together.
"Figures. " Ava comments.
"Time for another movie. Chose the next one" I advise them, wanting to move on from this discussion.
The next move is worse. Some movie about the prom and a bunch of girls wanting to be prom queen. I am seriously starting to think about homeschooling. I look at my beautiful daughter and niece. They are only twelve, but it's clear that they are going to be beyond attractive. My brother and I look at each other. He is thinking the same thing. These movies are like looking into our future. Fuck! Relief fills me when the movie comes to an end.
"Phoebe and Ava. I think it's time for you two to go upstairs and to bed. Lights out in half an hour."
"No" The girls both call out at the same time.
"It's only half past nine, and you both said that you would watch and do what we wanted tonight." Ava and Phoebe are both standing in front of us. I
"Okay fine, but no more teenage girl movies… chose something different." Elliot is trying not to sound grouchy.
"Alright, Dad" Ava agrees. There was something too smooth about her voice just then. They both turn around and start going through the wide selection of movies. I stand to stretch my legs and head off to the kitchen. Elliot follows me. He is thinking the same thing.
"Don't get the wine out little bro. We need something stronger. Bourbon." I nod once and grab two cups and the bottle. We clink glasses and drink the contents in one go.
"One more" I offer, which Elliots doesn't hesitate to accept.
"I am going to ban every single teenage movie. Seriously did you her our girls talk? You and Ana were right to limit your kid's access to TV as much as you have. Our girls are leveled headed kids but that doesn't mean they will be as teenagers. That's it, we need to transfer them to an all girl school." I thin my lips. I wish. I have mentioned sending Phoebe to an all girl school a few times and Ana has refused each time. Similarly, there is no way that Kate will agree either.
"Christian, can you imagine someone like us, before we got met Kate and Ana, hitting on our girls. Going out on dates with them with only one thing on their mind." Fuck! No Fucking chance.
"I am going to have a pile of security guys piled up on them. I don't give a fuck what Ana or Kate say. This is non-negotiable." We down our a third glass for my brother and I. Never have a drank hard liquor when looking after one of my children, but the very thought of a fucker laying eyes on Phoebe or Ava is enough to push us over the edge.
"Absolutely non-negotiable. Kate is just going to have to deal with it... or maybe I won't tell her. But again, non-negotiable." Elliot announces. We clink glasses again and drink our third glass. To think, two of Seattle's once most eligible bachelors and man whores, now fearful for their preteen girls. Images of our girl's futures run through our minds. School dances, dates, them rolling their school skirts to make them look shorter, boys trying to get their attention, dates, proms. It's a horribly sobering thought. Our thoughts only cease when we hear two familiar and beautiful sounds. Giggling from our girls.
"There you both are! Is it too late for some dessert?" Ava asks. "I feel like some ice cream"
"Gail told me she stocked the pantry with sprinkles, chocolate chips, nuts and chocolate sauce for our father-daughter night. She bought some rocky road ice cream, but I think we should be the chocolate, vanilla and strawberry mix." Phoebe suggests. While I personally don't like my children having so many sweets and especially at night, the girls sweet and childlike excitement right now prevents me from saying no.
"Dad and Uncle Elliot, can Ava and I make you a surprise sundae?" Oh gosh, this could be intense. They both can have some serious sweet tooths.
"Please," Elliot answers while I nod.
With our sundae's in hand, we return to the living room. "Can we watch a PG 13 movie?" Elliot and I look at each other and shrug. They are going to be thirteen soon. Why not.
"As long as it is not a girly teenage movie, then I am happy." We should have known from the look they gave us. I should have stopped them there and then.
"It's not." The girls press a button on the player and the movie starts. It looks familiar, kind of. Less than three minutes into it, I take hold of the remote and press pause.
"No," I announce. No way will I let them watch the movie, 'The Ring."
"Dad, why not? It's a PG 13 movie."
"It's a horror movie, Phoebe. You and Ava have never watched a horror movie ever."
"Actually it is a mystery -mild horror movie. It can't be that bad if its rating is so low" Phoebe argues.
"Dad, I think you should veto Uncle Christian. You know that Phoebe and I are grown up enough to watch this movie!" Ava chimes in.
"Sorry Ava, but this is one of those times where if one parent says no then so does the other." I nod once at Elliot. Yes, we are the parents and we make the rules.
"I don't believe you two!" Ava responds. She and Phoebe and are now standing in front of us. "You both say that we are growing up quickly and that we should rely on you two, always"
"That is true, but..." I commence arguing only to be stopped by Phoebe.
"No but's dad. Ava and I would like to watch our first horror movie, and we want to watch it with you both. Our Father and Uncle. We rely upon and trust you both. Now if you forbid us from watching the movie, then we won't watch it and we won't put on another dreaded girly movie, as you both dislike them. We will sit, finish our ice creams and then go upstairs." Phoebe is eloquent, and I am amazed by how easy that was. Elliot and I smile at each other. Maybe with our girls being so mature and easy going, the teenage years won't be so bad. Elliot and I are about to tell the girls that we don't wish them to watch the movie and eat our deserts. That is until they continue.
"Before you accept our offer, you both need to be made aware of the ramifications. You need to realize that one day we will watch a horror movie, for the first time, and it is likely to be a far worse movie than this one. It is probable that Phoebe and I, won't be with you both, or our moms or a family member." Ava is smooth as she argues. I think she will become a lawyer at this rate.
"Ava is right. We one day will watch a horror movie and our preference is to watch with you too. Our beloved father and Uncle. We trust you both, so much and know that we are always safe with you, both." I don't know if it is our mixed emotions at the fact the girls are growing up, the three glasses of bourbon or that the girls just gave the most articulate speech above their years or the combined effect, but they have us eating out of their hands.
"Alright" I relent pressing play. Ana is unlikely to be happy about this, but I will simply recite how she is constantly telling me that I need to let Phoebe grow up and make her own decisions and mistakes. I decide that this situation fits the criteria.
The girls are practically giddy and excited. They sit in between us and watch as the movie commences. The girls jump a little at the start but settle quickly. "Why did that girl go insane?" Phoebe murmurs softly. She is verbalizing her thoughts more than seeking an answer.
The next scene, explains why the movie has mystery added to its description. This journalist character watches an old-style tape and a serious of the most screwed up images comes up. "That's big time weird!" Ava exclaims. They both jump at the next part of the movie when the journalist receives a phone call from an unknown female who whispers seven days. The movie goes from weird to even more so. I consider turning off the TV when they show footage of the 'evil character, in the well. I should have as the last few scenes where the ghost of Samara materializes, crawls out of it and kills some guy. When the credits commence both Elliot and me realize that neither of the girls has spoken or uttered a word for over an hour. That's a first.
"Ava and Phoebe are you two, okay?"
"Yeah. What was that movie about? That was confusing." Phoebe nods in agreement with Ava.
"It wasn't that.. scary"
"I know. Sarah lied." Phoebe whispers. I almost didn't hear her, but I am used to her whispering when she doesn't want me to hear.
"What was that girls?"
"Nothing. Can we go to bed now?"
"Yes, after you take your dishes into the kitchen. We will be up soon." They both obediently comply.
"Something tells me that they won't be asking to watch a horror movie anytime soon." I reason.
"No chance and we need to make a pact that we don't willingly tell our wives about allowing the girls to watch that movie. We both know the girls aren't going to divulge that information." Keeping information from Ana, never worked in my favor. Though I have over the past years, on a couple of occasions. I nod in agreement.
Elliot and I check on the girls as they're getting into bed. They are sleeping together in Phoebe's room. We bought our daughter a beautiful queen size, canopy styled white four poster bed, for Christmas and matching new furniture. The room is fit for a princess.
"Good night girls. We will see you in the morning. You should both go straight to sleep and ready to meet your grandfather for breakfast tomorrow morning." Elliot reminds the girls. They are excited at the thought. My father continued his ritual of going to IHOP for breakfast when my mother had a medical conference, with his grandchildren. The girls are looking forward to having their grandfather to themselves.
"Will do, love you" they both call out.
"Love you both too"
I decide not to remove my pajamas as I get into bed. I want Phoebe to see that I wore them during the night. It's late in New York. I normally text Ana, when she is away but I don't have my phone. Damn it. I could call her on the house line, but I would just end up waking her up probably. I am counting the hours till my family is reunited and I have Ana back where she belongs.
"Girls" I have knocked several times on Phoebe's door, with no response and I don't hear any noises. I knock and call out the girls names, again to no avail. I open the door slightly, just in case. Both girls are still in bed. This is out of the ordinary. They always wake up early in the morning.
"Phoebe, Ava.. you both need to wake up." It takes awhile for them to even open their eyes, let alone sit up. "You are going to be late if you both don't get a move on." They both look at each other. Given the opportunity, they would put their head on their pillows and fall back asleep.
"Do you think you could call grandpa and ask if we could go out for breakfast later?" Ava asks.
"Later? I question.
"Yes, like in three hours! Or if grandpa is busy later today, maybe we should go out another day," Phoebe adds, laying back down. I shake my head.
"Okay girls I know what's going on.. Actually what happened" They both look at each other quickly and worried. They are sitting up straight now. Rigid in fact. "Don't worry! It isn't as if we will but a ban in place or not.."
"You won't?" Phoebe's eyes are so wide, that she looks like she will pass out from shock.
"No of course not. But I think we have learned a lesson from yesterday. You girls went to bed later than normal and knew you had an outing with your grandfather. Neither of you should have gone to bed and stayed up talking. I know that you are both best friends and everything, but you both needed to go to sleep over talking all night." I narrow my eyes at the girl's reaction. They don't react as I expected.
"You're right Uncle Christian. We should have gone straight to sleep." Ava says. Her voice is a mixture of unconvinced and nerves. An unusual mix.
"I am sorry also. Ava and I will be downstairs before grandpa arrives to pick us up." I watch the girls get out of bed. I shrug off the odd feeling I get. I can read most people like a children's book, but pre-teenage girls confound me. Fuck I am going to be seeing Flynn every other day once Phoebe turns thirteen.
"Is there anything either of you are neglecting to tell me?"
"Yes..." Ava looks pale at Phoebe's response. I stand, ready to act "..Dad, you need to leave, so we can get changed" Okay, not the response I was expecting, but not unfair.
"Thirty minutes girls! " I remind them careful that I am not scolding but clear that there is no leeway here. Not just because I hate people, even my children, being late, but because they were so eager to go on this outing with their grandfather when he rang yesterday after school. They rarely get him to themselves.
"I bag the shower first" Ava jumps out of the bed and straight into Phoebe's ensuite bathroom. I smile as Phoebe rolls her eyes.
"Dad, I love Ava. She is my cousin, best friend and a close to a sister anyone can get. However, she drives me crazy when we share a bathroom. " I laugh. It is well known that Ava Grey loses all sense of time in the bathroom. Phoebe sighs and then yawns. She is going to need a shower to wake up.
"Go use your brother's bathroom."
"Good idea." I wrap my arms around Phoebe hugging her close. Screw the fact she is growing up fast, she is and always will be, my little girl.
"I love you, Phoebe."
"Love you too dad" I am about to release her when she jumps away.
"Phoebe?" I pull my phone out of my pocket and check the message.
"I.. um… I was just shocked by your phone vibrating. … I .. uh. I didn't realize that Taylor had given it back to you."
"Taylor returned my cell phone to me first thing this morning. Your mother rang me to let me know that she, Aunt Kate and Ted were boarding the jet. They are on their way home and earlier than planned." Phoebe breathes out relieved. "I know you miss your mom and brother. I do too. They will be home today."
"Well, to be honest, I miss mom a lot, Ted not so much, but that's because he has become annoying."
"Annoying? How so?"
"In the normal boy way. Talking about girls he likes, though he is too young to date, growing hair and such, sports and school.. you know that sort of thing."
"Oh" I reply forcing myself not to grin. Your brother is only going to get worse, little girl.
"I better go get ready." I nod. Phoebe hugs me tightly one more time and then races out.
# # # #
It is noisier, and a little more chaotic, but it is as close to heaven as I can imagine at home. I have Ana next to me, and on the opposite side are our two children as we eat dinner as a family for the first time since Monday. Everyone is where they belong. Gail partially volunteered, partially demanded to cook for us even though it was a Saturday and her day off. Our children are happy. Phoebe might have said that she didn't miss Ted that much, but in reality, she did. Ana is playful. She has subtly rubbed her hand up my leg during dinner. What I would do if our children weren't opposite us.
"So dad, what time, are we leaving tomorrow morning?" Ted asks excitedly.
"Early. We need to be out of here by half past six, but I would prefer that we leave earlier at six."
"Okay, then in that case, since I have finished my dessert I will head off to get ready for bed." I look at my watch and note that it is eight.
"You're going to bed already on a Saturday night?" Phoebe demeanor is completely out of character. I can't put my finger on it and it worries me.
"Yes, I woke up early due to our flight plans, plus New York is three hours ahead. It actually is eleven o'clock at night for me." Ted explains yawning.
"Can you stay up a little longer and play a game with me tonight?" Ted often gives into Phoebe, always feeling the need to care for his little sister but not even her puppy dog eyes will work this time.
"No chance. You will end up choosing a game like Monopoly that will take far too long. I am exhausted and want to be awake tomorrow. I will play tomorrow night. I promise little sis!" Usually, this would placify Phoebe but not today.
"Night everyone."
"Good night Ted." Ana and I replied together. Phoebe is playing with the last pieces of her desert, distracted. I notice that Ana is looking at our daughter curiously.
"Phoebs, are you alright? You look like something is bothering you." Ana queries.
"Bothering.. No.. nothing.. I am.. I'm just tired. I didn't get much sleep last night. That is all" Ana, like myself, are not at all that convinced but Phoebe's statement does have some merit.
"I guess it would have been too much to ask you and Ava to go straight to sleep when you are both having a sleepover and in the same bedroom. I know I didn't sleep much when I had sleepovers as a child." Ana says empathetically. "Phoebe, just leave your dishes and go get ready for bed. You will feel better in the morning after a good night sleep." I cock my head to the side when Phoebe's instantly seems to wake up.
"No!" Phoebe uncharacteristically snaps.
"Excuse me, young lady?"Ana responds before I manage to. Where I was the disciplinarian, Ana never tolerates rudeness. The combined looks from Ana and me remind our daughter of appropriate behavior.
"I.. just.. don't think I should leave my dishes. That is all. I should put them away. It's not fair to have Gail or one of you do it. I can help put all the dishes in the dishwasher. It's easy." Phoebe scuttles off, taking her plate and a few other dishes. Ana and I shrug and stand to help Phoebe.
"All done" I announce once the table has been cleared, everything put away, dishes stacked and machine on.
"What are we doing now?" Phoebe asks. Now I love my children, but I love my wife also like crazy and desperately need her,
"You are going to your room. Lights out in half an hour." I inform Phoebe. Thirty minutes. Damn, I should have said 5 minutes, because I don't think I will survive much longer till I am buried in Ana.
"Why? It's Saturday. "
"One, You are tired from last night and a lack of sleep. Two, you had a lot of on today. Three, because you are grumpy. Lastly, and most importantly, your mother and I have told you to go to bed. It is half past eight now, and nine o'clock is late enough due to point one to three."
"Fine" Phoebe relents, she drops the tea cloth that she had in her hands it the kitchen bench and starts to walk off. While she did listen and comply in the end, she had so much attitude.
"That was out of character. I wonder if she is…" Ana stops and places her thumb under her chin and index finger over her mouth.
"She is what?"
"Getting her period."
"Period? What? No! She is twelve!."
"I got mine when I was thirteen. Our daughter is only a year younger." I thin my lips at the thought.
"Whilst I accept, though dislike the idea, that Phoebe is going enter puberty soon enough, I don't think that is the issue right now. I can't put my finger on it, but it's too sudden." Ana places her hand on my cheek. Her eyes and presence are always enough to make me stop over thinking and pacify me.
"I will talk to Phoebe tomorrow. If anything is wrong, she will open up over ice cream and hot chocolate." Ana giggles as I bring her closer to me and run my hands over her back.
"Ice cream..mmmm...It's been some time since we have done that." Before Ana is able to say anything I place my finger over her lips. "Go upstairs, and relax on our bed. Don't wear any clothes."
"Yes, Sir." Oh how much I love how the word 'sir' sounds coming out of her lips. I look at her backside admiringly as she heads upstairs. I am so claiming it tonight. I fetch two Champagne glasses and a bottle of Cristal. My family is back under the same roof, and my hot wife is going to be naked on our bed. Very good reasons for celebrating. I smirk as I open the freezer and find two tubs of ice cream left. The girls used one last night. Being the traditionist that I am, I grab the vanilla. My favorite flavor since 2011.
I find Ana on the bed, but not as instructed. "Mrs. Grey.. while your attire is most attractive and erotic, I don't believe it fits my instructions." She is biting her bottom lip. I run my finger along the fine lace that adorns her coverages.
"I went shopping in New York. I wanted to show you one of my new purchases. Do you like it?" I carefully inspect the lacey bra and panties set. Ana grins. They are the same shade of red as the playroom in Escala.
"Very much. Where did you buy this set?"
"At a specialty boutique called 'spoil yourself and him.' Why do you ask?"
"Because I am going to have to order you a new set or two. These ones are ripped."
"Don't be ridiculous I Just bought them f… ?" Ana stops talking as I rip the lace of her panties with my fingers. My cock twitched in response as I feel the wet sleekness. This deserves a change of plans.
"Wait here. Don't take anything off or move" I enter the bathroom and throw off my clothes. I find the pajamas the girls had us wear last night, grab them and throw them on, and wash my hands.
"Nice nightwear. The girls were excited when they found those."
"I knew you and Kate had something to do with these."
"We just paid for them. Where are going?" Ana asks confused.
"I am going to check on the kids, to make sure we won't be interrupted. Then I am going to get a different ice cream flavor. I don't think tonight calls for vanilla." I place the tub of ice cream down and head down the corridor. As expected Ted is asleep, but Phoebe wasn't.
"Dad.. you.. you're wearing those Pajamas" Phoebe gulps as I enter her bedroom.
"Yes, you did give them to me. I like them because you chose them."
"But umm, can you not wear them? Could you get change once you go back to your room? Please." I cock my head to the side and narrow my eyes. This is the most unexpected request ever made by my daughter. Phoebe sensing that I am about to quiz her goes into repair mode "It just that I didn't think they suit you. Ava and I choose them since the pants were funny and the color scheme wasn't really masculine. I don't want you to have to wear them, because of me." I shake my head. I am not convinced but I don't want to press the subject right now. I walk towards Phoebe and kiss her forehead.
"Bedtime angel, and thank you for being one these past four days while your mom has been away." Phoebe looks at me almost expressionless. "I wish you would tell me what's on your mind."
"Sleep. I am tired."
"Bed then." And because I am worried and Phoebe's behavior is so out of character, I stand and watch her get into bed.
I am about to turn the light off and close Phoebe's door. When she calls out. "Dad please don't sleep in those pajamas, okay!" Yep, we are going to have to talk about this one.
"You really don't want me to sleep in these?"
"No chance. "
"Okay. I will put them away." Phoebe visibly relaxes, Unbeknownst to my daughter I had no intention of wearing anything tonight. "Love you."
"Love you too, Dad."
I would be going out of my mind if Ana wasn't going to talk to Phoebe tomorrow. My wife is far more skilled at getting our daughter to open up. In the kitchen, I return the vanilla ice cream and replace it with rocky road. Yes, this is far more fitting for my wife's mood.
"You took so long.I thought you weren't into delayed gratification anymore." I don't respond. I lock my eyes on Anas. They become wide as I walk over and pull the quilt off the bed.
"Wouldn't want it to get messy now. You, on the other hand, is another issue altogether." I dip the spoon into the ice cream and feed it to Ana. "Tasty?"
"Very. Deadly Sweet"
"Deadly Sweet you say. This deserves more investigation."
"What do you mean?" I smirk at Ana's question. Taking a generous amount of ice cream, I spread it as best as I can, below anas belly button.
"Delicious"
# # # #
I relish the feeling of being buried deep in Ana. I move thrusting myself three times deep into Ana and then stop. "Christian!"
"Shh.. I want to savor this. I start to move slowly, kissing Ana nonstop. "You are irresistible."
"Please Christian."
"What do you want?" I am teasing her. I know the answer already, but I love to hear it from her lips each time.
"You. All of you" I grin broadly and start to move, hard. "Oh Christian."
I can feel Ana grip me. She is so close. I pick up my pace, knowing our climaxes are near, but suddenly stop. Ana sits up as best as she can, both of our attention diverted to the piercing scream coming from our daughter's room. Not once, but twice. Fuck! Actually, it means no more fucking…
"That was Phoebe."
I jump up, making Ana wince, though she too is up. I pull on my Pajama pants and Ana grabs her robe.
Phoebe is sitting up on her bed, visibly shaking and with tears running down her face. Upon seeing us she cries harder. She is scared. For the first in Phoebe's life, she is truly fearful. Shivers run down my body as we approach her. I want to pick Phoebe up and hold her right.
"Phoebe, what's going on?" Ana asks. I sit on the bed and guide our daughter onto my lap while Ana sits closely holding her hand. "Are you hurt or sore?"
"No" Phoebe replies softly. Too softly. I don't think I have ever heard her voice be so low before.
"Then what's all the noise about?
"I had a bad dream." Phoebe's voice is so low.
"You were screaming," I tell her.
"It was a scary bad dream," Phoebe adds.
"Obviously. What was it about? Phoebe shakes her head and starts to shiver a little at Ana question. We look at each other concerned.
"I can't remember." I raise Phoebe head so she can look me in the eyes.
"You can tell us. It's okay. You look so scared, princess."
"I am fine. I don't remember my dream… Dad why are you still wearing those pajamas. You said you would take them off." I look down and note she is right. How do I tell my preteen daughter that I had taken them off, was making glorious love and fucking Ana, but threw them back on when she started to scream.
"I forgot. I was tired and fell asleep wearing them. Why are you so instant that I don't wear these anymore. Don't lie to me. Tell me the truth"
"I.. umm. It just… I hate them.. yes.. that's it. They're ridiculous."
"Okay," Ana replies slowly. Shit. If this is what Phoebe is going to be like from now on until she gets her period then I am sending her away to boarding school. Maybe Ava too. "Phoebe tomorrow you and I are going to have a long chat. Are you okay to go back to bed?"
Phoebe doesn't respond at first but slowly nods her head. "Good. Your mom and I are just down the hallway if you want us, Okay?" Phoebe nods. I kiss her forehead and watch as Ana puts her back into bed.
"You okay?"
"Yeah"
"Go back to sleep. See you in the morning." Ana and I linger a little at the door and when we are confident that Phoebe is alright head back to our bedroom.
"Phoebe is acting strangely. Did anything happen out of the ordinary this week?" Ana queries.
"No", I say shaking my head. Mentally I run through the week since Ana left early Tuesday. From Tuesday to Thursday I made sure she was awake. She got ready for school and we ate breakfast. I drove her to school each day with Taylor and Ryan. I picked her up each day, so she wouldn't be home alone except for Wednesday when Grace collected her and Ava to take them to dance class and their ritualistic grandma and granddaughter afternoon tea. My dad went with them since Ted was away. On Friday, Elliot and I took the day off work as the girls had a student free day at their school night. They cooked with Gail, swam and we watched movies. Today they had breakfast with Carrick, then Phoebe did homework, while I completed some work. Afterward I spent time with her, practicing her soccer for the upcoming season, then we picked up Ana and Ted. "I can't think of anything out of the ordinary. She missed you but was in good spirits and well behaved all week."
"It's probably nothing."Ana shrugs. Without realizing it she has started to bite her lip. Fuck my cock don't just twitch, it springs to life. I pin Ana to the wall and release her lip.
"Back to our bedroom. We have unfinished business. " If we weren't outside Phoebe's bedroom, and in danger of being caught by one of our children, then I would stand and slam her and now. My insatiable wife grips my arms, practically pulling me to our room. Ana even breaks our number one rule of not locking our door before being intimate. Children have a tendency to walk in without warning. Fuck it, our children aren't young anymore. Ana rips off her robe and forces my pants down. I kick them off unceremoniously as I lead her to the bed. I don't waste time, burying myself, moving hard and fast.
"Christian," Ana yells out as she climaxes. Her muscles tighten around me and I close my eyes relishing the feeling, though don't delay my gratification. I Already had to wait. Replete I lay down next to Ana who is catching her breath. I commence laying soft kisses all over her.
"God I missed you"
"Me or my body," Ana giggles. She is teasing me.
"Everything about you. Your lips." I state kissing them. "Your nose" I lean down and kiss the tip of it. For each part of her body, I tell her I miss I proceed to kiss. "Most of all, I miss your presence, your warmth, your mind, you challenging me, watching you with our children and how without you, I don't feel whole."
"I feel the same about you. You know that don't you"
"Absolutely. I want to make love to you. Slow and passionate love. Then I may fuck you hard and then make love to you again. Five days is a long time and we have so much to catch up on. I fear by the time Monday morning arrives, neither of us will be walking"
"Fear?" Ana comments raising an eyebrow. I grin and move to hover over her. I commence kissing all the way down her throat and chest, taking her nipple into my mouth. Slowly I run my tongue around the Aurelio.
"I want to taste you." Ana arches her back at my words. Anticipation hitting her. I run my noise on her recently waxed pubic region. She must have had this redone in New York. Just as I am about to reach my reward, the most annoying sounds echoes in our room. My cell phone ringtone. I look at it and frown. Taylor? NO! NO! NO!
"Ignore it!" I don't want to know. Both kids are safe and sound. No house alarms have gone off and if it was one of our family members was in trouble or a family incident then they would have called me directly.
"Okay" Ana manages to say as I lavish her. I don't want to make her cum like this but I want to treasure her. My cell phone goes off two more times. It is only when Taylor calls Ana's phone that we decide we have to take notice. I swear the house better be on fire at this rate. "You better answer it," Ana says groaning.
"Taylor" It has been a long time since I have been so brutish on the phone with Taylor but he is cock blocking me here. The man has worked for me long enough to know that there is only one thing I would be doing right now with my wife after both our children are in bed and I haven't had her since Monday evening.
"Mr. Grey, I am sorry to interrupt you." He at least has the decency to sound embarrassed.
"What is it, Taylor"
"Your daughter is outside your bedroom. Ryan has been watching on the inside monitors. He reported to me that Phoebe has almost knocked on your door several times. She doesn't look well. Ryan has described her as being anxious"
"Anxious?"
"Yes, sir. I turned on my remote camera surveillance and Phoebe's behavior is out of character."
"I will handle this." I disconnect the call and fill Ana in as I locate on my pajamas and pass Ana her silk nightgown. From the corner of my eye, I watch as she slips it over her head, fitting her like a glove. I will enjoy taking it from her afterward. Again.
"Phoebe" I startle her as I open the door. It appears as if she was about to knock.
"Dad..I .. um.. I was about to knock"
"I can see. Are you okay?" I don't mention that Taylor rang me.
"Yes," Phoebe replies too quickly and sharply. I cock my head to the side. "I can't sleep. Can I see mom for a few minutes?" I nod and open the door widely. Phoebe doesn't waste a second entering the room and throwing her arms around Ana. I watch. Maybe it's just that Phoebe missed her mother more than she ever said this last week.
"Dad.. you said you weren't going to wear those pajamas." Ana and I look at each other confused. What is it with this sudden dislike for a piece of clothing that she was so adamant and excited that I wear last night?
"Okay, Phoebe sit" Ana orders pointing to the bed. I might have once been the ultimate disciplinarian, but when it comes to our children, Ana is a force to reckon with. She can get anything out of our children, whilst never faltering on her compassion. "What has gotten into you?"
"What do you mean?" Ana and I both look at her, causing her to drop her shoulders. She suddenly looks so much younger. "I just can't sleep"
"Why didn't you just read like you usually do?" I query
"I don't… it's not.." Phoebe sighs heavily and coves her face with her hands. Ana and I sit on opposite side of her.
"Phoebe, just tell us the truth. What is going through your mind? Did you and Ava have a fight?"
"No. no fight"
"Then for the second time, what is going through your mind" I reiterate Ana's question.
"Could I sleep here with you two tonight?" I almost fall off the bed. Never has one of our children slept in our bed nor asked to. It has never been an option. We set it as a rule when Ted was born. Elliot and Kate have done the same.
"Come on Phoebe, I will take you back to your room." Ana takes her hand and stands up, but our daughter is reluctant. In fact, she isn't moving an inch. I study Phoebe. Guilt and fear. Two words I never wanted to use to describe one of my children, especially my daughter,
"Time to talk. Phoebe you have never once had a problem talking, nor have you ever lied to us. Don't start now." I instruct.
"Alright I will talk, but only on one condition"
"Which is?" I probe.
"You are not to be mad or upset at me. Neither of you. Promise." I thin my lips at Phoebe's condition. This doesn't sit well with me.
"We promise, but it doesn't mean that you might not get grounded or punished," Ana explains.
"I can live with that" Phoebe breathes out. "I am scared. I don't want to sleep in my room and I don't want dad wearing those pajamas"
"I have no problem changing my pajamas. Though Phoebe there is nothing to be scared of." I tell her softly, lifting her head too so I can look into her eyes.
"But dad…" I shake my head, not willing to let her continue.
"Phoebe, we have security all around the property, and cameras. You know that someone monitors them around the clock. I promise you there is nothing that can hurt or scare you." This I know. I spend a fortune each year to ensure the safety of my family,
"I know..." I smile relieved. I nod at Ana, intending on going with her to put our daughter back to bed until Phoebe continues, ".. However, what about the things we cannot see. Or the things that don't get picked up by security"
"Such as?" Ana asks confused.
"You know.. Things"
"That's it, missy. Enough going round and round in circles. Tell us what all this is about. Now, or else you lose your cell phone until the end of the year" Phoebe's mouth drops open. She received a cell phone for her birthday this year, after practically begging for one for years. She is not allowed to ring many people, and truth is told, we use it as another means of security, but it was gold to her. Most of her friends already had a cell phone and the prospect of losing it was horrid to her.
"Fine, but just both of you remember that you agreed not to be mad or upset." Phoebe takes a couple of deep breaths. "I had a nightmare. A bad one. Last night. After the movie"
"You had a nightmare after watch teenage movies?" Ana asks trying not to laugh. Oh fuck. I know instantly that this wasn't the cause of Phoebe's bad dream.
"No. The horror movies"
"What?" Ana responds, looking at me.
"Elliot and I allowed the girls to watch an old horror movie. It was rated 13+ and pretty mild. Comparatively."
"What was the movie called?"
"The Ring"
"Seriously?" Ana says raising her eyebrows.
"Phoebe, you were fine last night after the movie. You and Ava even whispered on commented how your friend Sarah had over exaggerated over how scary the movie was." I look at Ana. Fuck she is furious. It is then that it hits me.
"Phoebe you just said horror movies. You only watched one last night. Movie. Singular." Phoebe stiffens.
"Not exactly." Phoebe gulps.
"Explain" I order. Phoebe looks down. Telltale signs that she hasn't been truthful or obedient.
"Our friend Sarah at school had boasted that she and her brother had watched all these horror movies together. She said that Ava and I would be thirty before we would ever watch one because we were too goody-two-shoes and scared. She said that she watched the Rings movies. After we watched the first movie, Ava and I went to my room. I texted Sarah and told her that the movies were weak and she had lied. She replied saying that we had watched only the first movie which was little kid part of the series and needed to watch the next few. Ava and I watched those two on my iPad last night, in bed. When we were supposed to have fallen asleep." I narrow my eyes as I google the ratings on the following rings movie. Fuck! The last movie was rated R. I am going confiscate my daughters iPad, laptop, and phone until the end of time. "Ava and I were pretty freaked out. We managed to fall asleep, but both of us had a nightmare. I dreamt that the girl Samara came out of my iPad and chased me. I ran into your room and dad you were wearing those pajamas. You tried to protect me but couldn't." My anger at Phoebe and Ava's disobedience and stupidity is temporarily put aside as tears run down my daughter's eyes. She is even shaking a little. I tug at her hand and for the first time in years place her on my lap.
"Phoebe it was just a dream. Nothing else."
"But it seemed so…" I place my finger over her lips, preventing her from talking.
"Do you seriously believe that I wouldn't be able to protect you, ever? Do you actually think that I would let anything ever hurt you, no matter what it is? Phoebe, what does your logical brain and your big warm heart tell you?"
"That you will always protect me and succeed."
"Exactly. In addition to me, there is also your mom, Taylor, Sawyer, Ryan, your grandparents, your aunts and even your silly Uncle Elliot."
"I know." Phoebe smiles a little and takes Ana's hand.
"Do you feel up to going back to bed?" Ana asks.
"Can you take me, Mom?"
"Sure." Ana stands and helps Phoebe up. I kiss our daughter's forehead.
"Dad, while I know that it was just a movie and a bad nightmare, can you do me a favor still?" I nod. Memories of checking under Phoebe's bed and closet for monsters resurface.
"Change your pajamas. You know, just in case and besides, they are a little silly"
"Will do princess." I wink at Phoebe, generating a large smile from her.
Ana returns to our bedroom ten minutes later, finding me on the bed. I obliged my daughter request and removed my pajamas. The added bonus is that it left me completely naked, and my eagerness for Ana on display. Ana raises her eyebrows when she sees me.
"Seriously Christian, a horror movie? Have you spoken to your brother tonight?"
"No." I shake my head. I haven't paid any attention to my cell phone since Ana and Ted arrived back home, except for the calls from Taylor.
"Check your messages!" I roll my eyes and get off the bed to the dresser where it is charging. There are three missed calls from Taylor, but also from Elliot. In addition, there 's a text message from Elliot.
*Our daughters decided to watch more horror movies last in bed. Ava just had a meltdown. Kate is pissed. Warning she is going to ring Ana.*
"Kate called me just after I walked Phoebe to bed. She is going to make Elliot sleep in Ava's room tonight."
"Poor fucker!" I mutter. Elliot was longing to bury himself multiple times in Kate tonight.
"I almost considered making you do the same" Ana declares.
"Almost?"
"Yes, lucky for you. Now is there any more of that ice cream left?"
I try not to laugh at Ted and Phoebe as they try to bribe each other to unstick the dishwasher later tonight, which is their least favorite chore. It was Ana's idea years ago that they are given specific chores when the kids were getting too used to being waited on hand and foot. Every Sunday they are expected to help set the table, help with dinner and clean up, on top of keeping their bedrooms and toy room clean and tidy during the week. Regardless of our busy schedules, Sunday nights are now a family ritual. I pour myself and Ana another glass of wine. I rejoice that family life is back to normal. Ted and I had a brilliant time out on the boat. He relishes being out on the open sea. Phoebe and Ana similarly had a great day together. They went for a long walk talking about everything, supposedly, before meeting my mother for high tea. They then spent the afternoon reading Phoebe's English literature book that she has chosen to study for school this semester. As our daughter grows up, she is taking on more and more of her mother's characteristics, which suits me perfectly.
"Okay mom and dad, we have cleared the table and stacked the dishwasher. I think it's time for dessert. I asked Mrs. Taylor if she could buy ice cream."
"There is some in the freezer," Ana informs our two eager kids. I run my hands up Ana's leg and delicious memories of last nights consumption of ice cream resurface. My wife steals a sneaky look at me from the corner of her eyes. She is thinking the same thing I am.
"As soon as the kids are in bed I am going to fuck you into next week," I whisper into Ana's ear.
"I look forward to it, Sir. " Fuck me. I wonder if the kids will be happy to skip dessert, and have an early night. They are tired from their busy weekend and have school tomorrow. I would even tell them that they don't have to unstick the dishwasher as a sweetener. however, I know that this wouldn't fly. Instead, I start to tease Ana, preparing her for tonight. "Christian.."
"Ssshh Anastasia. Our kids will hear you." I stop abruptly when I hear the kids. Wouldn't want to scar them now.
"Mum, Dad, have you seen the rocky road ice cream? I swear I saw a whole tub in the freezer yesterday." Ted asks curiously. I look at our children impassively, though Ana's check redden.
"I don't think we have any. Did you buy any Ana? " I ask.
"No. I know there is a tub of vanilla."
"Who likes vanilla?" Ted argues.
"It's my favorite flavor"
"Dad, you can be so dull!"
