Chapter 23

Christmas

Sorry for the late update. As I said before I would never abandon this story. Just very strapped for time at the moment. Special thank you to my amazing beta Svart Yasmin for beta reading. And thank you all for reading, favoriting, following and reviewing.

Anastasia

Over a million small snowflakes dwindle down from the dark grey sky. The icy northern wind blows harshly over the open tarmac of Logan International Airport, and I shiver uncontrollably. Sawyer opens the door of the black Audi Q7 that is patiently waiting in front of us. I silently slide into the backseat of the car and watch with detached interest as Sawyer moves onto the front seat to ride shotgun with the driver.

The car moves at a snail pace over the snow-covered busy Boston roads. The entire city has been covered with a thick blanket of snow for a few days now. According to the weather channel, the northeast of the US has been hit by the biggest snowstorm in decades at the start of this week. It was almost enough for him, Christian, to reign in on his promise that I could spend Christmas with my parents. Thankfully the storm cleared up after two days and he reluctantly let me go. The relief I felt was almost overwhelming and I thanked God for giving me this small break from him.

I stare out the tinted windows admiring the countless Christmas lights that illuminate the city in the early evening. It is a magical sight to behold like a winter wonderland. I watch a young couple share some roasted chestnuts. They are huddled closely together on a bench and look so happy. I wish with all my heart that I could have a relationship like that someday; after this whole mess is finally behind me. Another couple with two unruly young children desperately try to get away from toy filled store windows. I cannot help but smile a little when I remember that I was just the same at that age. It drove my parents nuts. I realize more than ever that it's the mundane things like shopping with my mother or sharing a meal with friends that I have come to miss most since this whole thing started.

The car continues its journey through Boston traffic and I silently wonder what kind of luxury hotel he has put my parents in and what guise he used to explain the whole situation to them. I dread having to answer questions about our sordid relationship to my parents. What should I tell them if they ask about him? About Us. When Christian and I visited dad in Boston after he had his surgery he introduced himself as my boyfriend but our relationship is hardly conventional. I feel myself getting anxious and a tight knot settles in my stomach. I feel a little nauseous. I am just glad that I do not have to explain Sawyer's presence to them since he will be staying in his own hotel room. Thank God for small favors I guess. I take a deep breath and briefly close my eyes to center myself again.

I open my eyes again and resume my staring out of the car window. I am surprised to see that the streets have become significantly narrower and more residential. Classical 18th-century lanterns cast a warm soft yellow glow over the red brick stone terrace houses and the unblemished snow. The whole vibe from it all feels like something straight from a Dickensian Christmas card.

The car comes to a halt in front one of the red brick stone terrace houses with dark green window hatches and Sawyer exits the vehicle.

"We are here Miss Steele." He says curtly when he opens the door. Confusion swirls inside me. What an odd place for a hotel.

"Ana! You are finally here!" I hear my mother's sweet voice brimming with excitement. I turn my head towards the door of the house and see my mother standing in the door opening beaming at me.

For a brief moment, I am nailed to the ground before I launch myself into her waiting arms.

"Mom." I sob breathing in her balmy scent. It is familiar, comforting and it calms me instantly.

"Come in sweetheart, it is bitter cold outside." She says, ushering me in. She looks up and smiles at Sawyer who is standing with my suitcases behind her.

"You must be Luke Sawyer. Christian, told me you would accompany our Ana." She says brightly and I am stunned.

What? Has he been in contact with my parents? What details has he told them about our sordid relationship? And why aren't we staying in a hotel? So many questions whirl around my head.

"Mrs. Adams, it is very nice to meet you." Sawyer says politely.

"Please do come in and close the door. It is freezing." She replies brightly.

Mom grabs my hand and leads me through the small hall to the light airy living room. Our feet click rhythmically on the light oak wooden floors. A beautiful decorated Christmas tree stands in a corner and roaring fire blazes in the fireplace. Above it, three bright red, white and green Christmas stockings hang proudly. By the looks of it, they have been knitted by mom.

"Annie!" Ray says happily as he shuffles through the door.

"Daddy!" I squeal and jump into his arms. All questions momentarily forgotten.

"Woah, Woah calm down sweetheart. You nearly knock your old man off his feet." He chuckles.

I cannot believe how good he looks since the last time that I have seen him. He gained weight and has a rosy blush on his cheeks.

"You look great daddy."

"I feel great Annie. The cancer is in full remission and I am just short of a clean bill of health." He glows. I feel elated my daddy is going to be alright! All the worry and anxiety I had about his health are melting away and it feels like someone lifted a million-pound weight off my shoulders.

"You three want some hot cocoa?" mom offers with a smile.

"That is very kind of you Mrs. Adams, but I need to report to Mr. Grey that we have arrived safely. If you just could show me where miss Steele is sleeping I can bring her suitcase to her room." Sawyer replies politely.

"Oh, yes, of course, follow me." Mom says and escorts him up the stairs. The questions that I suppressed minutes ago come back with a vengeance. I don't want to barrage Ray with them so I decide to grill mom when she gets back.

"So sweetheart how have you been? It looks like you lost some weight." Ray says a little worriedly.

"Busy, but fine." I quickly reply the last thing I want is Ray worrying about me.

He looks at me intently for a moment.

"Your internship coupled with school does seem demanding and your boyfriend Christian does not seem like an easy… boss… You just make sure you have enough fun. It is important." He says with a wry smile and I know he is fishing for something. He probably wants to know more about my 'relationship' with Christian.

"I will be fine dad just don't worry about me OK?" I smile at him and gently squeeze his leg.

"I am your dad it is my job to worry about you sweetheart."

"Nobody is going to worry about anything now. It is almost Christmas!" Mom says while whirling in carrying a tray with three steaming cups of cacao.

"I put some marshmallows on the top just the way you like it." She says brightly.

"Thanks, mom."

She sits down next to me and dad and takes a sip of her cocoa.

"I just like to say that I am grateful. After everything that has happened this year with Bob's death and Ray's illness, we still have each other. It is nice to be able to celebrate together in a real house instead of an impersonal hotel or worse a hospital room. I should write a thank you note to your... friend Ana."

It is time to get some answers once and for all. I need to know what they know and if and why Christian has been in contact with them.

"Did Christian, arrange this place for you guys to stay?"

"Yes. He has been taking very good care of us and all the other ex-employees that worked with me at the Olympia shipyard. He called me and all the other employees personally after he launched an investigation into the company. He has offered to cover all the medical costs of those who got sick working for the company. Even the people that did not work there when he took over the company. He did not have to do that you know. He might have the reputation of being an asshole but he is a good man and I am glad to have him as a son in law." My father says with a definitive nod.

'I know I had my reservations about him first but I have seen the pictures of you and him, Ana and you look so amazing together and after all he has done for us.. well let's just say I am thankful that he came into your life Ana. You don't have to tell me anything about your relationship but I highly doubt he would call me up and tell me that you are taking a private security officer with if you two are not really serious... I just need to know if you are happy? If he makes you happy?" Mom asks concern edged on her face and I curse at him internally.

Did he play this sick game to try and legitimize our so-called relationship? ? I never in a million years expected that he would weasel himself into the lives of my parents and put me in this position. Forcing me to play along in this charade of his. I am completely flabbergasted by how much effort he has put in to get into their good graces and how successful he has been. An insane part of me is almost flattered and it's messing with my mind.

"Mom it isn't like that... yes we are involved but don't expect to hear any wedding bells soon. Our relationship is… complicated. He is just really overprotective of me." I shrug hoping my reply satisfies her curiosity.

"I understand that. A man in his position needs to be careful with those and for those around him. I am just glad you have someone like him Ana. Knowing that you are safe and cared for means the world for your mother and me." Ray says earnestly and I am glad they have accepted my answer.

"So how long have you two been staying in this house? It looks lovely and I really like to have a tour." I say quickly changing the subject.

My mom smiles brightly and quickly launches into the story. Telling me that Christian arranged this place for them a little over three weeks ago after the doctor told them that dad did not need to stay in the hospital 24/7 anymore. Originally the plan was that he would stay with mom at the hotel. But after Christian called my dad the ask how he was doing he arranged this for them in Boston's iconic Beacon Hill neighborhood. It makes me feel angry knowing that he has been in contact with my parents behind my back. Why could he just tell me? What are his motives for doing this exactly? Does he really care about them or is just another rouse to gain control over my life? This is all just so complicated and these questions are driving me insane. Maybe I should call him and ask him? I am so caught up in my own thoughts and emotions that I hardly hear my mother asking me something.

"Is that OK Ana?"

"Anastasia?" she asks louder this time.

"I am sorry what?" I hastily reply.

"I would like to go Christmas shopping tomorrow. Do you want to come with me?"

"Sure." And I give her a tentative smile. I hate shopping and she knows it.

"Are you alright baby girl? You seem distracted."

"I am alright mom just a little tired."

She smiles at me.

"Well, it has been a long journey. How about I give you a quick tour of the house and show you to your room so you can rest up a bit?"

"You two don't mind?"

"Of course not, honey. Now go on and get some rest. Ray says and squeezes my leg gently.

I give him and kiss and follow my mom out of the living room into the spacious and luxurious kitchen. I let my eyes wander through the kitchen and drink in every detail. A big built in stove fits perfectly onto the granite counter and white kitchen cupboards hang proudly on the plastered walls. The same Oakwood floors from the hall and the living room also run through the kitchen floor. The whole room feels warm and homely.

"It is beautiful, isn't it? Although I still haven't quite figured out how that stove works my chicken casserole came out ruined last night." Mom sighs ruefully and it makes me smile. Mom's cooking has always been hit or miss. The only thing she can make really well is fresh pasta something she learned from her mother who was of Italian descent. I don't remember much of her. Only that she was a petite sweet woman with an angelic voice. She could sing the most beautiful songs. It broke mom when she died.

"Are you sure it was because of the stove? Or was it because of your cooking?" I tease her and she chuckles.

"Ray said my cooking has improved since the last time he tasted it."

"Ray eats everything mom." I tease back.

"Oh, can't you just let me have this one compliment?" she teases back wraps her hands around my waist and pulse me into a warm embrace I realize just how much I missed her these last few months.

"I have missed you, mom."

"Oh, baby girl I have missed you too. I am so happy that you are here." She says and pulls me into a closer hug.

"Come let me show you the rooms upstairs." She says sniffling a little and I know she has gotten emotional again.

We walk up the large white spiraling staircase to the second floor of the house. There are 4 bedrooms with their own bathroom ensuite on this floor there is also a small library and an office on this floor. On the top floor, there is a sauna and fitness room. All in all, the house is huge although not nearly as big as Christian's solitary mansion on the Puget Sound.

After my mom has given me a quick tour of the house she leaves me to unpack my things in my room located next to hers. The room feels light and airy. Black and white pictures of various flowers and landscapes hang on the ammonite colored walls. A large queen-sized bed stands against the wall in the middle of the room. I almost squeal when I see the cozy reading corner near the window. I quickly unpack my suitcases and hang my stuff in the large walk-in closet. This whole house is opulent and luxurious and I cannot quite understand why Christian Grey of all people would put in so much effort just to please my parents. Is it to score points with me? Make me think he is not such a bad guy? Or is he trying to win over my parents just to pin me down? Or maybe he genuinely cares about my wellbeing? I quickly dismiss that last ridicules thought. I am pretty sure he is incapable of really caring for another person. Nevertheless, these questions keep spinning around in my head and I realize the only way to get them answered is to ask Christian.

I sigh and start to unpack my clothes from my suitcase putting them in the large walk-in closet near the door. I am tired from the flight and I decide to lie down for a second and close my eyes.

"Anastasia?" I faintly hear my mother's voice calling me.

"Anastasia wake up. It is dinner time." She says again while gently shaking my shoulders.

Dinner time already? I only closed my eyes a minute ago.

I open my eyes and see a familiar pair of eyes smiling back at me.

"Come on sleepy head. It is almost seven and your dad is getting hungry. You know how grumpy he gets when he is hungry." She jokes.

I slept for more than an hour yet it feels so my much shorter. I smile at mom and clamber of the bed.

"What are we having for dinner?" I ask.

"Your dad ordered Chinese. Apparently, he thought I needed a break from cooking." She says and he face falls a little. It is endearing and I cannot help but smile. When we were still a family Ray used to order in every week using that same excuse. I guess some things never change.

Dinner is fun; mom and Ray keep joking with each other and it reminds me once again just how much I have missed them. I almost choke up when Ray declares that mom is his best friend and I am the best thing that ever happened to him. She gently squeezes his arms and tears well in her eyes. Even though they split up when I was 16 they have always remained a close friendship. But most of all they have been my greatest champions. It makes me feel loved and safe.

"I love you, Ray. You are the best thing that happened to Annie and me." She replies tearfully.

Ray scrapes his throat and gently squeezes her arm.

"Enough with the sentimentality for today. Who wants some Port?" he asks sounding slightly hoarse changing the subject like only he can, making mom and me smile.

"If you pour us some glasses I will plate some cheese and bread. I could use an evening snack." I quickly offer.

"That would be great honey. There is a big collection in the fridge. Courtesy of Mr. Grey's personal shopper." Mom beams and I am instantly reminded again how much he controls all aspects of my life. I push back the thought determined not to let it ruin my time with my parents.

It is almost 1:00 when I go to bed. I cannot remember the last time I had this much fun with my parents. I feel slightly tipsy from the liberal amounts of port I drank tonight. I quickly shower before I jump in the soft queen-sized bed. I am supposed to go Christmas shopping with mom early morning. I inwardly groan. The prospect of wrestling through throngs of Christmas shoppers is not exactly appealing to me but mom loves it.

I pull the covers over me and close my eyes. The loud buzzing of my phone startles me, and I groggily grab my phone from the nightstand. What idiot would call me at 1:30 in the morning.

"Hello." I say sleepily into the phone.

"Well, hi there Annie Steele." Jimmy's cheerful voice rings through the speaker.

"Jimmy!" I almost squeal with excitement. "It is so good to finally hear from you."

"Hear from me? I thought you had forgotten all about little old Jimmy. I have been trying to get a hold of you for weeks! Kept getting a number is not in-service message. Was worried sick about you."

"I am sorry Jimmy never meant make you worry about me. There was something wrong with my phone service but is apparently fixed now since I am speaking to you." remember Christian telling me that his team would be looking into that problem. It seems like he kept his word and got it fixed. It is weird; thus far he always seems to keep his word. Does he really want to earn my trust so badly?

"Well, I am glad it is fixed. How have you been? And be honest with me Annie." He says bluntly as ever.

I instantly know what he is aiming at. He probably saw the pictures of Christian and I. I cannot tell Jimmy what happened with Christian. He is such a good friend and supported me when Christian humiliated me in front of a group of executives. The memory still leaves me reeling and anxious. I will never tell what Christian put me through. It will only make him upset and there is nothing that he can do about it anyway.

"I am alright. Dad is doing much better now. He is almost cancer free. I am celebrating Christmas with him and mom."

"I am so happy to hear your daddy is going to be OK. How is your mom?"

"She is fine. Thank you for asking. We are going Christmas shopping tomorrow."

"Damn I wish I could join you guys." He chuckles. "So how is work?" He asks tentatively cutting through the heart of things.

"Work is fine it all worked out in the end." I lie. "It keeps me very busy especially combined with college." I offer him a nonsensical platitude.

"So, tell me how have you been? How is Paris treating you?" I say quickly diverting the attention away from me. I much rather hear what he has been up to. He is silent for a minute and for a moment I am afraid he is going to continue with his inquisition. Jimmy has always been very perceptive so he probably knows I am not being truthful.

"Paris is great! I am learning so much new stuff here. When I am back home I will open my own restaurant."

Thankfully Jimmy does not decide to press me about work and Christian and we quickly fall into easy conversation. It is nearly 3:00 clock when we finally hang up and I quickly fall into an easy slumber.

I wake up to the delicious smells of fresh coffee and bacon and my mom's insistent chattering. I quickly wash up and dress before going downstairs for some breakfast.

"Morning Annie." Ray says without looking up from the morning paper.

"Hi, dad. Hi mom." I kiss them both and sit down at the breakfast table.

"Made you some pancakes." Mom says proudly before depositing something that has little resemblance to a pancake on my plate.

"Eat up so we can go shopping." She says impatiently and I groan softly earning a chuckle from Ray.

I quickly take a few bites and swallow them without really chewing it so I don't have to taste it.

"That is all you going to eat?" Mom asks concerned when I put my plate in the kitchen sink.

"Yes, not really hungry. Let me brush my teeth so we can go." I give her a small smile before sprinting upstairs.

I am exhausted when we finally get back to the car after a day of relentless shopping. My feet hurt and my arms feel heavy from all the bags that I am carrying. I don't think that there is a shop in Boston left that we have not visited today. Mom is in her element and chatting up a storm. I love my mother to dead but her insistent chattering has given me a headache. I want nothing more than to go home take a shower and read a book in the quiet of my room. sawyer opens the trunk of the car and I help him load our gifts. Mom has bought way more things than I did a lot of presents are for her friends at her arts and crafts club.

I hated that Sawyer had to come with us. It made me feel annoyed and uncomfortable that he was walking behind us like some babysit. Mom thought it was funny she told me that it made her feel like a celebrity.

Sawyer opens the passenger door of the Q7 and mom and I climbed in.

The car smoothly moves through the snowy Boston streets and I marvel at the throngs of Christmas shoppers crowding the streets.

The melodic ring-tone of Sawyers cell-phone blasts through the car speakers. Sawyer quickly pushes a button on the steering wheel and the sound abruptly stops.

"Good afternoon sir." Sawyer says politely immediately grabbing my attention. Christian... Of course, he needs to check up on me via Sawyer. I sigh and continue listing the phone conversation Sawyer is having. Not caring that I can only hear one part of it.

"Yes, This morning sir."

"Fine sir. We are on our way home."

"I would an assume so sir." Sawyer says while quickly glancing at us through the rear-view mirror.

"Yes, I will make sure she is packed and ready tomorrow morning sir."

"Will do sir." Sawyer says before pressing the button on the steering wheel again ending the conversation.

No longer paying mind to mom's insistent chatter I silently wonder what Sawyers phone call with Christian was all about. Has he decided to reign in on his promise last minute? It will be Christmas tomorrow and it is a 6,5-hour flight to Montana where he is at it means I would spend most of Christmas day alone in the sky… My stomach churns would he do something so cruel, promising me something that means the world to me only to rip it away from me at the last minute? I feel anxious and uneasy and it is driving me crazy. I can't live with the uncertainty.

"Sawyer..." I begin tentatively.

"Yes, Miss Steele."

"What time do we fly back to Seattle on the 26th?"

"21:00 Miss Steele." He answers guilelessly and I breathe a sigh of relieve.

I am still celebrating Christmas with my parents! Then... Who needs to be packed and ready tomorrow? What is Christian up to?

…..

A familiar frisson of excitement unfurls in my belly. It is still dark outside and the warm blankets lie heavy on my body. Christmas morning has come and I feel like a little girl again impatiently waiting until I can unwrap my Christmas presents. I stretch my legs and slowly push the blankets away. The morning air feels cold on my skin but it does not bother me. I glance at the alarm clock it is just 7 am and I am sure my parents are still fast asleep. I quickly get up brush my teeth and dress in some comfortable sweats I brought with me. It is one of the few items that are truly mine and hasn't been purchased by Christian.

I silently walk downstairs and enter the living room just to take a quick peek at the presents under the Christmas tree. It feels like I am 5 years old again and I am barely able to contain my excitement. I am stunned at the number of presents under the tree. I knew mom bought a lot of stuff yesterday but not this much. The amount of presents under the tree is just insane. Ray must have bought so many presents for mom and me. It makes me feel sad uncomfortable even. Ray never splurged money he has always been thrifty maybe he is not getting better? The thought is so painful that I quickly suppress it, besides Ray would never lie about something like that.

I take one last glance at the Christmas tree before moving towards the kitchen to make a spectacular Christmas breakfast. The fridge is stuffed with so many delicious foods my mouth starts to water. My parents really did go all out for Christmas.

Soon the kitchen is drenched in the delicious smells of bacon, croissants fresh brewed coffee and eggs, pancakes and waffles. I quickly set the table and decorate it with various Christmas ornaments. After everything is done and I finally set the last plate on the table. I cannot help but take a little pride in my early morning achievement.

"It smells great in here sweetheart." Ray's comments while walking into the kitchen.

"This table looks so beautiful Ana. You did an amazing job." Mom says proudly.

Breakfast is delicious and fun. Ray offers to clean up so mom and I can go and relax in the living room. I cannot wait until he comes back so we can start opening the mountain of presents under the tree. My curiosity is killing me.

"I left some food for Sawyer." Dad says when walking into the living room with the dish towel still draped over his shoulder. "I figured he might be hungry, never seem him eat since he got here."

"Well, I think he will appreciate Ray. Now come to your daughter is dying to open these presents and so am I."

Dad gives us both a small smile. "Just let me light the fireplace first I think the atmosphere needs to be perfect."

"Ugh, that will take so long!" I know like I sound like a petulant child but I cannot help myself.

Both of my parents burst out in laughter.

"I am glad that some things never change." Mom says and squeezes my leg gently.

Moments later there is a blazing fire inside the fireplace spreading a comfortable warmth through the living room. I quickly grab the first present from under the tree, a medium sized box and read the name tag. I smile at Ray and hand him the present. I don't recognize the paper so I am guessing mom bought it for him.

Ray calmly opened the present and suddenly let out a gasp. "Holy smokes!" He breathes out.

"Well, what is it, Ray?" Mom's asks excitedly.

"Press box season tickets for the Mariners! This is just too much Carla? Annie? You guys shouldn't have bought me something so expensive…"

Mom looks surprised and turns her attention to me. She must have noticed the equally surprised look on my face.

"I did not buy you season tickets, Ray. I bought you socks and a new cell phone. And I don't think Ana bought you those either. I am guessing you have a real-life Santa clause to thank for this."

Christian! He must have done this… Why would he do something like this? And how does he know that Ray always wanted Mariners season tickets? My mind is reeling and I hardly hear my mom cry out in shock and surprise when she opens her present. I turn towards her and see her clasping a bronze statue of a man. I recognize the style it looks like a work of mom's favorite sculptor Alberto Giacometti. Ever since I was a kid mom has been obsessed with his work. He has been a huge inspiration for her own art.

"How? How is this possible. It is a real Giacometti. This work is priceless!" She exclaims.

Mom can hardly contain her excitement expertly studying the statue.

"Well one thing is for sure this Santa has some very deep pockets. He must really like you, Annie." Dad says winking at me. I feel dazed unable to fully comprehend what is happening. Is this another one of his ploys to get my parents to like him or to buy my affection? Maybe he just wants to give you a really nice Christmas? The small voice inside my head whispers. I quickly shake that thought unwilling to believe that is the case.

One after the other expensive gift is unwrapped by each of us. After an hour or so there is only one small gift left under the tree. I stare at the huge amount of gifts next to me. A pair of beautiful pearl earing's lies on the pile of first editions of Hardy´s and Austen's. The old books form a shrill contrast with the designer clothes, technical gadgets, and jewelry I have been given this year.

"Her Annie, this final one seems to be for you." Ray hands me the small box and

I quickly rip off the paper curious and anxious to know what it is. I open the box and stare at the engraved golden locket in complete shock. How is this possible? How did he know? How did he even get it? My heart constricts and my throat feels dry like sandpaper. I feel tears well in my eyes unable to contain the overwhelming emotions I am feeling.

I look up at my mom feeling guilty and ashamed. I take out the locket and gently trace my dumb over the engraving before opening it. The familiar solemn face of Saint Philomena patron saint of children, babies, and lost causes stares back at me. I never thought I would see this locket again. It belonged to my grandmother. She had given it to me shortly before she died, telling me that it would keep me safe.

Even though she had been ill for a long time her death was still unexpected. Or maybe mom and I both refused to see how ill she really was.

My mother had a younger brother named Adrian. He died when he was just 5 years old. It nearly destroyed my grandma. My grandfather bought her the locket with Saint Philomena after they buried him telling her that Saint Philomena is the patron saint of children Adrian's soul would be safe.

I had to pawn it a couple of months back to pay my bills. I never told anyone about what I had done, especially not my mother knowing it would break her heart. When I went back to retrieve it a couple of months ago it had already been sold adding to my already sky-high pile of misery. How the hell did Christian know? He must have been stalking me that is the only logical explanation. He must have bought it from the pawnshop owner before I could get it back. I feel a surge of anger rushing through me. How dare he? At the same time, another part of me is profoundly grateful that he did. Pawning the locket was one of the hardest things I had to do.

"Oh, Anastasia why did you never tell me anything." Mom has tears in her eyes.

"I felt so ashamed mom and I did not want you to worry. You had enough stuff on your plate."

"But this was not your decision to make Anastasia. You know how much that locket means to me, to us! You should have come to me, Ana."

"I know mom and I am sorry."

She sighs and opens her mouth to chastise me again but Ray stops her.

"Carla, I think Annie got the message. If you want to blame someone blame me."

"This isn't about blaming anyone Ray! It is about honesty!" She snaps back.

"I swear mom I was going to get it back. I am really sorry you are right I should have told you."

"You should have indeed! Just promise me from now on you will tell me everything."

"I will mom. I promise."

There is a brusque knock on the living room door and Sawyer enters swiftly.

"I hope I am not interrupting but there is a sleigh waiting outside hoping to take you all for a ride. Complements of Mr. Grey who wishes you all a Merry Christmas."

Of course, he would I think sourly. Maybe he really does mean it the small voice in my head rings again.

"Well, that sounds like a lot of fun." Dad says cheerfully. I guess he is thankful for the break in this tense situation.

"Well, I guess some fresh air will do us all some good. A sleigh ride sounds really exciting." Mom says and gives Sawyer a small smile.

I quickly get up and turn on my coat before walking outside towards the lovely red and green sleigh pulled by two beautiful white horses.

"Good afternoon ma'am." The sleigh driver an elderly man with a short white beard and twinkling blue eyes says cheerfully. He helps me into the sleigh and then helps mom and dad in who are crooning excitedly.

The sleigh ride is amazing. Boston's old town is covered in snow and looks like something from a picturesque Christmas card. Soon our earlier tensions are forgotten and we fall back to easy conversation. After two hours or so the sleigh stops in front of a cozy looking building and the driver lets us out.

"Mr. Grey has asked if I could deliver you, folks, here. It is the best restaurant in town so I was more than happy to oblige." He says smiling.

The door of the restaurant opens and a slender man with his chef's head still on greets us enthusiastically.

"Ms. Steele, Mr. Steele, Mrs. Adams. Welcome to the White Goose I am Fred Anderson head chef and I have the honor to serve you your Christmas dinner today." He says while ushering us into the restaurant.

I am stunned silent at the interior it looks like a snowy forest a winter wonderland. Pine trees with snowy tops stand around a gorgeously set table. Thousands of Christmas lights are scattered over the snowy floor and soft melodic Christmas songs croon over the sound system. I cannot believe how much effort they put in to create something this incredible. A waiter immediately comes to our table and pulls out our chairs.

We are the only dinners in the restaurant and I am pretty sure Christian rented the entire thing and paid for the extravagant decor. I decide to park my reservations about his motives for now and just enjoy it all.

"Today we have prepared a special menu for you. Curtsy of Mr. Grey." Chef Anderson says smiling and hands us all a white and gold menu.

Christmas Menu

Canapes

Pumpernickel Bread, Rosettes of Smoked Salmon, Chive Cream Cheese.

Chorizo and Prawn Skewers.

Asparagus wraps with lemon mayo.

Maison du Bosquet Viognier 2014

Starters

Lemon Grass and Saffron Crepes, Duck and Shrimp Stir-fry.

Domaine de la Vougeraie Côte de Beaune 2011

Intermezzo

Lobster, langoustine Ravioli with Limoncello cream sauce.

Brocard Chablis Grand Cru Valmur 2015

Maine course

Rib beef with Shallot and gravy.

Or

Roasted Turkey with spiced cranberry, apple, and sage stuffing.

Penfolds St Henry Shiraz 2008

Domaine de la Chênepierre Moulin à Vent 2012

Dessert

Individual Egg Nog and Raspberry Cheesecake, Black Cherry Coulis, Chocolate and Mint Biscuit.

White and Dark Chocolate Log Cake, Cinnamon Ice Cream, Chantilly Cream.

Pedro Ximénez Ximénez-Spínola 2015

Aftermath

A selection of local cheeses and slices of bread.

Colheita port 1951

Finish

Tea or Coffee

Selection of local cakes and biscuits.

"I have never seen so many courses in my life not used to all these fancy foods."

"I am sure it will all be delicious Ray." Mom says while rolling her eyes at him.

"I have no doubt about that." He shots back.

Turns out that dad is right the food is absolutely delicious. Every single thing has been prepared with so much love, care and attention it is just simply incredible. But what I love most is the happiness on my parents faces this entire day. It has been so long since I have seen them genuinely happy.

"Annie, Carla I would like to tell you both something." Dad begins quietly. "I know I am a man of little words. I am not used to wearing my heart on my sleeve. I guess that I want to say is that I love you both and that I am truly grateful to spend this Christmas with you two. I don't know what the future will bring so each minute I spend with you guys is a precious minute for me and I want to spend as much time with you as possible. So, once the doctors tell me I am all better I want to take you guys on a road trip through America to celebrate life, love, and family."

Mom has tears in her eyes and so have I.

"I love you too daddy." I lean over and hug him drinking in his familiar comforting smell. No matter what Christians motives are for doing all this I am simply grateful that he did do this. It has brought us all closer together and for the first time in a long while I feel hope blossoming in my chest.