Part 2: Holding On

Saying the morning after was awkward would be an understatement. She couldn't even look Christian in the eye the next day while eating French toast with the family. She felt a bit tender after the night's activities and it stayed there for the remainder of the day — a constant reminder of their affair.

She was embarrassed by her actions, if Carrick and Grace knew what she had done with their son last night, she would surely want the Earth to swallow her whole.

Christian sat right next to her for their morning meal. She suspected he was purposefully grazing her hand every time she passed something to him for breakfast. The smug bastard. He even tried to slide his palm up her thigh while she was eating, she promptly removed it.

After five years of trying her best to move on from Christian, Ana could hardly believe what she had allowed to happen. It pained her to admit that she was still attracted to Christian. She thought her attraction had dissipated with the distance between them, but it was just laying dormant for all those years. All it took was one strike of the match and she was on fire again. She meant every word that she said. She hated him. Hated how she couldn't get him out of her mind, hated how awful he made her feel, hated that he was doing this to her again. She refused to heel to him.

She left shortly after breakfast and headed straight to a convenience store. They never discussed protection during their encounter. She scolded herself for being so reckless. Christian had been with God knows who. She bought a morning after pill and made an appointment to get herself checked out for any STDs in New Hampshire.

Ray was gone when she returned, he left a note saying he went out golfing with a couple of friends. She didn't like the idea of him walking around a golf course for too long, but he was a grown adult who could make his own choices.

She knew her time in Seattle was coming to a close and she needed to make a decision soon. She opted to decide on her departure date after Ray's check-up appointment.

After returning to work, Christian couldn't concentrate on a single meeting or task throughout the entire day. If he thought his fantasies were incessant before, they were now developing into a full-blown obsession. Sure, he felt satiated for the night, but the next morning his need for her doubled. He wanted to fuck her all day, and the next day, and the next… For the time being, all he could do was replay their only time together. Her sassy demeanor, anger at him, and the feel of her. Her smooth and hot skin and her small voice against his cheek while he took her. She was everything he wanted and more.

But she hates me. Christian frowned, he had his pen poised over his notepad as Ros gave him the highlights from the meetings he missed during his vacation. His body may have been there, but his mind was with Ana. He recalled the way she begged him to fuck her harder and found his cock was ready for round two. Jesus, you're in a meeting with Ros, calm down!

He tried to settle into his seat, but then he remembered cumming in her. It hit him. He didn't use a condom. The grip on his pen tightened, he paled in color.

"Christian? Are you okay?" Ros looked worriedly at her boss's shocked expression.

"I-" Christian loosened his grip, "I'm fine Ros. Can we finish this meeting another time? I just realized; I forgot an important call I was supposed to make."

Ros uncrossed her legs, "That was pretty much it. I'll send you the notes."

"Thank you Ros." Christian practically waved her out, shutting the door behind her. He whipped around and dialed Ana's number on his cellphone. He let it ring until it hit voicemail, "This is Anastasia Steele of Steele Publishing, I'm not available at the moment. Please leave your name and number."

Christian practically hissed into the phone, "Ana, this is Christian — we need to talk now. Please call me back as soon as you get this." If she wasn't on birth control, she needed a plan B as soon as possible. For fucks sake, I didn't even pull out!

Christian paced back and forth and tried calling again for good measure. No answer. By the end of the day, his nerves were fried and he was determined to reach her. He asked Taylor to stop by Ray's house. If she wouldn't answer her phone, he would see her in person.

He wasn't able to finish work until 5:00 PM at the earliest and arrived at Ray's twenty minutes later. He knocked on the door and was met by a wary Ana in her PJs.

"Christian? What are you doing here?" He could see her peeking back into the house, as if she was scared that Ray would notice him there.

"Why aren't you answering your phone?" Christian was exasperated, half mad from waiting.

"Christian, you told me this was a one-night thing. We aren't starting something just because you want it now."

"That isn't why I'm calling you." Although, he would like to talk about that.

Ana's face fell, if Christian didn't know any better, he'd say she was disappointed.

"Ana, I know this is quite late, but we didn't use protection. We didn't exactly…" Christian gripped the nape of his neck in embarrassment, "speak about contraception."

Looking annoyed, Ana peeked behind her once more to ensure Ray wasn't in earshot, "I got it covered. Thanks for the afterthought. Goodnight, Christian." She began shutting the door, but Christian stopped it with his foot.

"Wait, Ana." Christian stepped into the door frame to prevent her from closing him out, "You got it covered as in you're on birth control or?" He really hoped she wasn't saying she'd perform an abortion if necessary.

"I said, I got it covered. Why does it matter to you how it's done?"

"I'm not exactly dying to be a father here Ana, if you need me to cover any medical expenses before something happens, I would be more th—"

Ana tried closing the door again, gently pressing against Christian's frame to move him out of the way, "Well, maybe you shouldn't have put it in then? And I don't want anything from you Christian, get out please."

"Jesus woman, I can't get through a sentence without you trying to kick me out. Why are you making this so difficult?"

Ana's lips settled into an indignant pout at his comment, "You make my life difficult Christian. It's only fair that I return the favor." With that she finally managed to slam the door in his face.

Christian tried hard not to curse, but his mind ran rampant with a tirade while he returned to his car. He had many ideas for that smart mouth. In the recesses of his mind, he imagined Ana bound and gagged while he fucked her. His anger turned into another issue altogether, he adjusted his pants after sitting back in his vehicle, "Back to Escala Taylor."

"Yes, Mr. Grey."

Christian rolled down the window to get some fresh air. He was finding the enclosed space stifling. If she didn't want to share this vital information with him, he would look for it himself. He dialed for Welch on the phone, Welch answered after three rings.

"Mr. Grey?"

Christian wasted no time, cutting to the heart of the matter, "I need information on Anastasia Steele: her health care provider, current prescriptions, past appointments, and upcoming appointments."

After silence on the line, Christian spat out, "Are we on the same page here?" He didn't have the time, patience, or control for Welch to be judging the moral or legal implications.

"This could take a few days Sir, but we'll have it ready."

"Good." Christian nodded once curtly, hanging up.

The following day was Ray's check-up appointment. Ana was happy to find out that he was in good condition with strong vitals. With the good news, Ana was a little more comfortable with heading back to Hanover for the time being. She knew she could fly back immediately if heart surgery became an option for Ray.

Ana made sure to stop by Mia and Grace to say her goodbyes as well as Kate. She felt a sense of relief once leaving the state again. She could return to work and her beloved dog Hardy. She could once again, stay away from him.

When Christian got back Welch's report, he's hurt on multiple levels. Ana had scheduled an appointment in New Hampshire for 4:20 PM to check for any sexually transmitted diseases. She never said goodbye to him before she left Seattle and she thought he was a tramp. I was at one time, but no more.

He was also informed that she had no history of birth control, which gave him more questions than answers. He was desperate to talk to Ana about all of the above but revealing that he'd been snooping would not go well with her. She already abhors you enough. He had to get through to her another way.

Instead of calling Ana and hearing her voicemail yet again, he decided to text her a short piece of his mind:

Heard you're back in New Hampshire, no goodbye?

The wait for a response is nearly an hour, but he's relieved she even bothered to text back.

I didn't think Christian Grey said goodbye to one-night stands.

Christian was peeved that she would put herself in that category, it was grossly inaccurate, self-deprecating, and an insult to him. He waited at least twenty minutes to reply, trying to not appear too eager.

I hardly think someone you have known for your entire life is a "one-night stand" Ms. Steele.

Her response was quicker this time.

You know what the "one-night" refers to. Semantics, Mr. Grey.

This was too easy of an in, he can't help but to text back.

If you're really caught up on the "one-night" part, I can fix that Ms. Steele.

There was a longer wait, but he could see that she was drafting a reply. He didn't expect a positive response but letting her know that he was open to more was important.

I will forego your generous offer Mr. Grey.

He wondered how much she edited that response and if the original was more or less accepting. Her prickly behavior towards him gave him a limited time to communicate, but he would try to send an opening for another day.

You wound me Ms. Steele. Another time then, I would still like to talk to you.

Another time Mr. Grey.

He had a lot of questions for her. Did she buy a morning after pill? Does she think I'm a manwhore who has crabs? Did she even enjoy their night together? He knows he enjoyed it but looking back he chastised himself for not even bothering to make her orgasm. She already accurately perceived him to be a selfish asshole and he had been completely living up to the name. Maybe he could do something nice for her. Maybe he could try courting her the way he knew she had imagined it. He stopped short at his thoughts, he didn't want to give her the false impression that he was romantic, but he was earnest in earning her trust and affections.

He called a Hanover florist to order a dozen burgundy and white roses to be delivered to Steele Publishing. He thought better of sending a full message with it, just opting to attach "To the lovely Anastasia Steele — Grey"

Shortly after he was informed of the successful delivery, he got a call from one Ms. Steele.

"Ms. Steele, what a pleasant surprise." He wasn't expecting a direct response to his gesture, but he would take what he could.

"What are you driving at Christian?" He heard the exasperation in her voice.

"What ever do you mean Ana?"

Ana heard his deliberate cheeky tone. This man was obviously playing games with her when she had already packed all the pieces and put the box away years ago.

"What do you want from me Christian?"

"Oh, a lot of things."

"Like?"

"You never let us finish our conversation at Ray's."

"Really? This is about contraceptives again?"

"This isn't just in my interest Ana. I'm not the one who can get pregnant here."

"I took the morning after pill, okay? That's all you need to know. Besides, if by some misfortune I became the mother of your child, I wouldn't want a cent from you."

He is relieved she took some measures. He would ignore her jab; he knew he wasn't fit to be a dad. Ana would be a good mother, a fantastic mother. However, if she wouldn't take his money, he couldn't help but to think he'd be a useless father. Emotionally unavailable and at work all day.

"Thank you. That wasn't too hard now, was it?"

"Thank you for the roses."

"You're very welcome. I was just thinking about you today." Every minute of every day.

"Don't think about it too long Mr. Grey." Ana knew the feeling all too well.

"I don't think I'd want it any other way; you are quite lovely Ms. Steele."

"And to think I've been trying for the complete opposite."

"Tsk, tsk. I didn't think so when we were together Ms. Steele."

"I'll try harder next time."

"Next time?" Christian smirked.

Ana huffed, "You know what I meant. You are insufferable Christian Grey."

"I really would like a next time, Ana." His tone was serious now.

"To what end? You got what you wanted, you got into the enigmatic virgin's pants. What more do you want?"

Christian paused, not quite comprehending what he heard, "What?"

"You popped my cherry Mr. Grey."

Christian needed to take a seat, he looked around him then, settling onto a hallway bench in the executive building he was standing in. How could someone so stunning and ethereal…

"Ana. Why didn't you say something?"

"I said a lot of things and you ignored it Christian."

He couldn't deny that. It paints their night together in a different light for him. She didn't feel comfortable enough with admitting her sexual status to him. He felt uncomfortable thinking of it. He wondered what the outcome would've been had he known. The only thing he was certain of these days was that he wanted her in his company. That truth was his daily life now. Virgin or not, he surely would have went through with it.

"I can't say whether it would've changed what we did that night, but I would have certainly been careful. I hope I didn't hurt you, Ana."

Oh, it's too late for that Christian. Ana lamented."No more than usual."

"Ana… if you need anyth—"

"Stop. Look, I appreciate the flowers Christian, but what I need is to move on."

"I don't want to move on."

"Well life isn't only about what you want Christian, contrary to how it has been going for you so far."

"I really wish you wouldn't have left so soon; we need to hash this out in-person. Let me see you." He did not realize he'd made the decision until the words left his mouth. He would cross the country to see her if that's what it took. They obviously had years of baggage they needed to address.

"Why bother anymore? Nothing has changed Christian; the only difference is that now I'm the one that can see we won't work." She spoke softly, defeated.

"I can fly in this weekend, see Hanover, and we can have coffee or dinner. Whatever works for you."

"Please take a single minute to think this through Christian. What would the best possible outcome be here? My company and life is in Hanover, your company and life is in Seattle. Our personalities are night and day and we can't even make it through a minute without arguing."

"I've thought about it every night since you left Ana. The only reason we're clashing right now is because you keep fighting this. I have more than enough resources to make this work. You don't even have to decide right now, I'll come and see you." He had a private jet at his beck and call and a helicopter if she was anywhere nearby. He traveled every week anyways, meeting her would not be an issue.

"Let it go Christian. If we're meant to talk again, it'll happen. I'm sure I'll need to visit Ray sometime this year."

Sometime this year!? This woman wants me to rot here waiting! "I'll stay in a hotel." Christian insisted.

"Don't come over. I mean it Christian."

Christian's heart was in this throat, she would not budge, "Ana…"

"Don't."

The line goes dead.

The next three months, she doesn't reply to any of his texts or calls. She is driving him mad. He already went through this before in their years apart, but after receiving an inkling of what it would be like to have her, he could not deny that this was infinitely more painful. After being left on read for the second time, he stopped trying to communicate altogether. He was self-aware of how needy and obsessive he was being. In a couple of moments of weaknesses, he even tried calling her. It was probably best that she didn't pick up, he was drunk both times. And he despised drunks.

Welch doesn't report any additional medical appointments made by Ms. Steele during those silent months. Christian was shocked to discover he was disappointed that he didn't have any new information. Not that he wished any ill upon Ana. But at this point he would've preferred her being pregnant over the silent treatment…. She really has made me mad. Would I really be willing to have a child with her if that's what it took to see her again?

The monotony of work does little to make the time pass. He found he didn't even enjoy coming home either. Putting Escala on the real estate market crossed his mind a time or two. If the simple word made Ana flinch, he could not see this being a welcoming location for her to visit. As if she would visit me at all. He didn't manage to sell it but he did buy a beautiful property in Washington that he thought Ana would like. He knew it was crazy, she wasn't even on speaking terms with him and here he was imaging a life together. Investing in quality real estate was a good business move anyways. He could always mark up the price if he had to sell it, or so he reasoned through the madness.

It was difficult to think that for most of his life, he passed up countless opportunities to be with her. And he botched it all. He was a fool who had fallen for the age-old mistake of taking for granted what he had right in front of his face. Any woman with sense would have left him too. He treated her poorly and now she was paying him back in full.

Ana couldn't find it in herself to engage with Christian. She was tied between hoping he would be thinking about her and hoping he'd forget. It didn't help matters when Ray reported that three months after the stints were placed in, the doctor was recommending having a pacemaker implanted. She would need to find a permanent solution instead of moving back and forth between Seattle and New Hampshire. Ray insisted he was fine, but she invited him to live with her in New Hampshire over the phone.

"Annie, Seattle is my home. My social circle is here and all of my volunteer work. I'd rather not uproot my life at this age. Please don't worry about me hon, I'll keep up with the appointments."

She would need to set up her staff to hold their own and consider opening a branch in Washington. Maybe Ray would consider anywhere else in Washington besides Seattle.

She decided to travel back to make it to Ray's scheduled surgery and to make a decision on the potential benefits of expanding or relocating Steele Publishing. She was apprehensive about her trip back, a certain grey-eyed billionaire might take advantage of the proximity. She managed to make it three days before he caught wind of her arrival, Mia had let it slip and confessed to her out of guilt. She wasn't upset with her but was now wary of his inevitable arrival or attempt at communication.

Ray's surgery went well, but she was now playing the role of caretaker – making sure he took his meds, ate three meals a day, and had lots of rest. All five of the Greys came to visit the following Tuesday. Grace and Carrick led the entourage, hugging Ana and walking indoors to see Ray sitting on the recliner in front of the television. Ray had wanted to answer after hearing knocking, but his pale color and wincing had Ana denying that request promptly. Mia, Elliot, and Christian followed in tow, each hugging Ana and moving to greet Ray. Christian and Ana's hug was briefer than the rest.

She was surprised to find she was happy to see him. He seemed sedated. Maybe the break had done them some good.

Grace's brow crinkled in worry as she sounded off a series of questions about Ray's treatment in the hospital. Mia on the other hand worried about Ana and the toll this event had taken on her career and mental health. She pulled her down to sit on the plush sofa opposite of Ray.

"How are you holding up?" Mia started, resting her palm on Ana's leg in reassurance.

"Great, I'm glad the hardest part is over. Now I just need to keep an eye on him and make sure he's following the doctor's orders. He can be stubborn sometimes, but he's doing well."

Christian and Elliot stood over the two, assessing the state of the house. The Steele's home was a humble abode, but charming with lush brown carpets and green furniture. It had been years since they set foot inside.

"I'm happy he seems to be well Ana, please let us know if we can do anything." Christian shifted uncomfortably, looking between Ana and Ray.

"Thank you Christian."

After chatting with Ray for a good moment and awkward weather talk with Elliot, Christian, and Mia. The Greys began their retreat.

"You go ahead Elliot; I need to talk to Ana for a moment." Christian ushered Elliot out.

Sensing the situation, Ana moved into the kitchen away from Ray's prying eyes. She knew this was coming, but it didn't make her any less anxious.

"Ana." Christian began, stuffing his pockets with his hands.

"Christian." She looked up to him expectantly.

"You look good, how have you been?"

"Making it."

"I miss you."

"Do you need something?"

"How long will you be in town?"

"I'm not sure yet."

"Would you like to have dinner tomorrow night?"

Ana pursed her lip, "Depends, is it a date?"

She was really putting him on the spot. He conceded, "It's whatever you want it to be Ana."

"Just talking."

Christian allowed his gray eyes to show a hint of excitement, he's pleased, "Just talking. I'll pick you up at seven tomorrow."

"Okay."

Christian could barely handle the anticipation for the next day. He honestly thought of at least five different food establishments. It came down to three options. He knew a great spot for fine dining but knew Ana would prefer something more casual. Then he thought of a fantastic place for Indian food, but he didn't want her to get the impression he was deliberately trying to spend less on her. All-in-all he went with a safe bet, a local restaurant that served Italian food and had an excellent wine selection.

His mind frequently went to prospects after dinner, but he did tell Ana it was only talking. As much as he wanted it to be more, he would honor the promise he made. He would not push anything further, but if she desired to, he would be more than happy to accommodate.

With Taylor as their driver, Christian picked up Ana at seven sharp. Ana adored Taylor but did find it a bit awkward to have him driving. It was restricting in terms of topics she could openly talk about with Christian in front of him.

Christian didn't seem to notice Ana's expression. He stepped out of the car to open the door for her, "Welcome Ms. Steele, you look lovely tonight." His eyes raked over her ruffled pastel green dress. It was casual, but snappy. He especially liked the way it hugged her curves.

Ana felt his hand linger on the small of her back as he helped her into the vehicle. She suppressed a laugh. He'll take any opportunity, won't he? She noticed Christian didn't look too bad himself, he had a light blue dress shirt and grey pleated pants. His sleeves were rolled up to his elbows, showing his well-defined arms. She would not return the compliment though; she knew that the last thing Christian needed was an ego boost. The cocky asshole.

Once she was buckled in, Christian slid in beside her and signaled to Taylor.

He turned to Ana, giddy for their upcoming dinner, "How are you?"

"Good, just a lot of shopping with Kate."

"I'm not sure if that sounds good, but I'll take your word for it."

He was right, tagging along with Kate during shopping was akin to being a full-time bag carrier. Ana smiled, "Okay, maybe not so good."

"Poor you." Christian teased. He looked out the window to see their current road, then turned to Ana, "I think you'll like this Italian restaurant; I'm famished. Haven't eaten since breakfast."

"Hmm. Italian sounds good right about now." Ana agreed.

Taylor pulled up to the front of the restaurant and exited the car. Christian looked annoyed when Taylor opened Ana's door to let her out. He was secretly hoping he'd get another chance to touch her, but even he realized that was silly.

Ana appreciated how quaint and private the small joint appeared to be. The waiter led them through the dimly lit front, to a private booth in the back. Upon taking a seat, Christian immediately ordered drinks and an appetizer, "We'll take two glasses of the Antico Colle Chianti and the bruschetta."

The waiter seemed taken aback by the abruptness, but wrote the order down nonetheless. Ana was too busy taking in the ambiance of the restaurant to complain that she would prefer a good cocktail instead of wine.

"I'm surprised I haven't heard of this place." Ana commented, looking at the old couple in the booth opposite from them.

Christian followed her line of view, "They have odd hours, but the food's worth it."

He looked back to her, at a loss now that he finally had her settled down in front of him for once. She was always trying to run away or evade him.

"I hope Ray is recovering well." Christian started, letting the waiter pour their wine and deliver the bruschetta.

"It'll take months to heal, but we're very reassured now that the pacemaker is there."

"Good. Listen, if he needs anything Ana. I mean anything, please let me know. I got some of the best physicians on call."

Ana sipped her wine before responding, "Thank you." She would prefer he wouldn't involve himself, but she would endure the gesture.

"So, I know you wanted some space after what happened between us. I understand Ana." He waited to see if she had anything to say on the matter, she didn't so he continued on, "I'm used to getting what I want, you were right about that. Despite this, I don't want to pressure you into a relationship if that's not what you want. But I want to try Ana, to try something with you."

"Something?"

"However you'll have me."

Ana took a nervous bite of her appetizer. He was putting a lot of pressure on her. She'd been adamant that they leave it as a one-night tryst, but her being here was letting him put his foot in the door. It was ultimately her decision whether or not she would leave the door open.

"Our night together was an anomaly, Christian. I don't do flings or friends with benefits. If we're going to try this, I need to know you are committed."

"Understood. What would help with that?"

"Monogamy for one."

"You think I'm despicable, don't you?" Christian was a lot of things, but a cheater was definitely not on the list.

The waitress made her rounds back to the table, Christian requested the Brasato al Barolo, braised beef short ribs with a side of veggies. Ana only recognized the Rigantoni Bolognese and as such ordered it.

Closing the menu, Ana continued the conversation. "I simply don't know much about your romantic life," Ana winced, "except for what I saw."

"That wasn't romance Ana and I'm sorry you ever saw it. I'll be loyal to you Ana, you'll be my priority. That I can promise."

"How can I trust you?" Ana was skeptical, what if he got bored and decided to drop her? Surely this would destroy her even more than the first time. Could Ana even find it in herself to love him again?

"We can try dating first?" Christian did not want to push his luck. As much as he wanted to speed things up, running before walking was not a good idea with being Ana so hesitant.

"How old-fashioned." Ana smirked, "It's perfect."

Even Christian found himself blushing, he could do sex, but courting was not something he was used to. "I'd like that Ms. Steele."

"It's set then."

Their food arrived promptly; the couple began digging in. Ana enjoyed the Bolognese sauce tremendously; she would definitely return here.

After having his wine refilled Christian spoke more, "How is business in New Hampshire? I hope publishing has been treating you well."

"It's a fickle business, but it pays the bills and I love it. I'm actually looking into expanding into Seattle, it'd make it much easier to manage my business while keeping close to Ray."

Christian took a moment to chew on his meal, "Seattle is an excellent choice for publishing, I haven't dipped into it, but Ros has shown me quite a few successful portfolios. There is competition for sure, but it's not oversaturated. I could help you on figuring out the logistics if you'd like." He tried to appear impassive but having her in Seattle would also increase their time together. There was no denying he wanted it.

"Thank you Christian. I already have an appointment with my financial advisor tomorrow. I'll be deciding then."

"It's okay to get help sometimes Ana, it's really no problem."

Ana softened her tone and put her hand on Christian's, "I really do appreciate it, but I would like to maintain some modicum of independence."

Momentarily dazed by her touch, Christian paused before speaking, "Ana, you're a grown woman. I hold no delusions in that regard."

Ana nodded, pulling away to take another bite of her pasta. Christian lightly smiled before hiding it with another gulp of wine. He was both enamored and frustrated with her insistence on being independent. He didn't quite understand how this woman managed to make being a billionaire feel trivial in the grand scheme of things.

Ana found herself pleasantly surprised with Christian's attempts at wooing her. He could be quite the gentleman when he put his mind to it. Walks in the Botanic Gardens, sailing on The Grace, and even a regular old theater visit were all dates she hadn't pictured Christian participating in much less with the likes of her. Yet, he performed it all earnestly.

Maddeningly enough, even after three months of these casual dates, he also kept his promise to remain chaste. Even she found the handholding and pressing on the small of her back to be achingly scarce. Moving it towards the next step was now something she wanted, but she also didn't want to seem wanton by asking for it directly. She was the one who insisted on taking it slow after all. An invite to her new apartment seemed to be in order. She would cook dinner for him tonight and they'd stay in to watch a movie or two. Ana was not familiar with the art of seduction, but she would give it a shot.

Christian arrived half past five to a preoccupied Ana who was skirting around the kitchen to keep the chicken alfredo from burning on the stove. After they both scarfed down dinner, Ana selected a movie sufficiently boring enough for her devious intentions. She dimmed the lights and sat pressed up against him, pretending to be invested in the movie. She faked a laugh or two and left her hand on Christian's leg. Seemingly absentminded, she rubbed her palm against his leg and leaned against him, keeping her eyes on the screen. This went on for nearly an hour.

Eventually, his hand met her's. He held it in place, scared of the reaction she was evoking in him. She had to know the effect she was having on him, but it could be fatal for their relationship if he misread the situation. She curled her hand around his and they continued the movie hand in hand. She would need to be more direct.

As the movie came to a close, she turned to him and pressed a firm, but quick kiss on his cheek. She said in nearly a whisper, "Thank you for indulging me, Christian."

"Indulging you?"

"The dates. I know you're a busy man Mr. Grey."

Christian chuckled, "Oh, they're for my benefit too Ms. Steele. Make no mistake."

"Is that so? What do you get out of it?"

"Time with you of course."

Ana blushed and attempted to look away. Christian stopped her, gently holding her chin to look into her eyes, "I love to see you blush Ana, don't turn away."

The intensity of his gaze pulled her to him, they kissed. This time it lingered as they pressed closer to one another, it gradually turned sensual – mouths exploring. The silence of the room was now tinged with the sound of the lovers' battle of tongues. Ana felt a fiery sensation trickle past her neck with need. As Christian tugged at Ana's waist, she accommodated him by sitting on his lap and continuing their activity.

Breaking away, Christian whispered against her cheek in a desperate voice, "Ana."

She knew what he was asking, but wanted him to beg her, to have him heel to her. She needed it.

"Christian." She turned to press her smirk against his lips, tracing her nails on the stubble of his chin. She laid her head on his shoulder, she'd be willing to forgo sleeping with him tonight if he refused to ask.

She felt his grip tighten on her thigh then. He pressed a kiss on her neck and asked gently, "Are you on birth control?"

Ana played with the hair on nape of his neck, "Why do you ask Mr. Grey?" She hid her smile away from him, but he could hear it in her voice.

"You're doing this on purpose."

Ana pulled back to feign offense, "What ever do you mean Mr. Grey?"

He led her hand over the front seam of his pants, over is stiff erection, "Ana, you know very well what you're doing to me."

Ana could definitely feel how excited he was, it made her proud to know she aroused him so. Christian groaned pulling her into another searing kiss before saying, "You torture me Ms. Steele."

Ana couldn't help it after that, dropping her pretenses, she busted out into a hearty laugh. She cupped his face in-between her hands, "Only as much as you can take Mr. Grey."

"I can't take anymore, have mercy."

"Ask me then."

Brushing away a bang from her eye, he consented, "Would you like to make love tonight Ms. Steele?"

Ana batted her eyelashes.

"Please?" Christian begged.

"Why yes I would Mr. Grey."

He moved her off of him to stand, holding out his hand. Maybe moving this to the bedroom would be a good idea.

Ana looked up to him, "I want it here."

He looked back, crestfallen. Then, staring down at her haughty pupils, he was determined. He reached down to grab her by the ankles and had her legs at his waist in one swift movement. She yelped as her head landed on the bottom cushions of the couch. He leaned over her breasts now, looking up to her shocked expression, "Anywhere you want it Ms. Steele."

He lifted her shirt up to kiss her belly before helping her to pull it off completely. She unbuttoned his shirt hastily while he unfastened her pink bra. He brushed the nipple of her left breast in reverence before lavishing his attention on the other with his mouth.

Ana combed her hands through Christian's hair, enjoying the sensation of his sweet and slow sucking. He stopped only to press a kiss on her lips then proceeded to tug her pants off. He grazed his nose along her thighs before pressing it against her heat, breathing her arousal in. Not being able to wait another second, he tore the offending piece off of her gaining a gasp from Ana. The sharp tear of fabric ripped through the silence.

"Christian!" Ana scolded. That was her favorite pair of lace panties.

Christian offered her a cheeky smirk before standing back up to undo his buckle, "I'm sorry Ms. Steele, I'll pay for a new pair." After stepping out of his pants, he wrapped her legs around him again. He took her in one thrust, hissing at the long-awaited pleasure. Ana held onto his arms to steady herself.

He began a steady pace, trying his best not to make this too fast. He wanted to cherish every moment inside of her. He wanted her to take pleasure in this too. It had been nearly six months since he had her last, reigning in his orgasm was more of a challenge than anticipated. She felt too good, she looked too good.

He took a cursory glance at her flushed expression then down at her pussy swallowing him over and over. The erotic view was nearly enough to push him over the edge. He was close but needed her to be there with him. He leaned down to nuzzle her neck, whispering, "Ana, come for me baby." He gripped her waist tightly, picking up the pace and brushing his hand over her nipples.

Ana tilted her head back, feeling Christian begin to suck and kiss her neck now. With a final gasp, she let go. He felt her clench around him. Hearing and feeling her come was the tilting point for him, with a few final thrusts he came with her. After catching his breath, he kissed her forehead and pulled out. He took a seat and brought her into his lap.

Watching her breathless and thoroughly fucked, Christian felt something give within him. Her bright blue eyes, her silky brunette hair, and sensual figure… But more importantly her humor, honesty, and forgiving nature. She was a gentle soul and somehow, she fell into bed with the beast that was Christian Grey.

Combing his fingers through her hair and catching his breath, he said the words he never thought he was capable of saying, "I love you."

It was barely a whisper, but Ana could've heard a pin drop at the moment. She felt that way for years about Christian, the hurt it caused her was unspeakable. Was she willing to try again? Instead of answering him back, she simply pressed her lips to him. He broke away and smiled. He knew expecting her to love him back was asking for too much, but he was a patient man and she was worth it.

A/N: As a two-shot this is where our story ends. I had a lot of fun writing this Ana and Christian dynamic and I may write an epilogue in the future, but for now will be moving on to finishing other Ana/Christian writing projects. Thank you so much for your encouraging words everybody. Happy Holidays!