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Chapter Twenty Five.
Open Explanation.
Ana.
.
Heading into Grey House, I take a deep assertive breath when I see the witch of a receptionist sitting behind her desk. I click, clack over with my head held high, trying hard not to topple over on these ridiculous heels that I'm wearing. I look good, feel good, and I have no reservations about being in this building, or facing her, today.
The receptionist smiles politely, professionally, when I approach her desk and ask for directions to the floor I need. Unlike my last visit here, she directs me efficiently and without any hesitation to where I need to go. I thank her swiftly and turn away, heading straight for the elevator before she realises who I am. It's only once I'm on board and the doors are closing that out eyes meet again, and I see the recognition sweep over her face.
I chuckle to myself as the elevator rises, and only feel the panic of where I am and what I'm about to do, once the doors open again and I step out onto the Human Resources floor.
I'm actually in Grey House.
Glancing around, I can see instantly that I stand out in the sea of Tweed all around me. I stand tall in my new red silk blouse, tight fitting grey pencil skirt and precarious Jimmy Choo's. Kate, assured me that I needed to make a statement and believe me, she's right. I stick out like a sore thumb.
I sit, hiding my nerves as I scan the array of other applicants sitting all around me filling in their own paperwork. I handed mine back to the receptionist a few minutes ago. Unlike all the other applicants in the room, my past employment and previous experience didn't take me long to list. I'm an English Major, applying for an Accounting position. What more can I say. I can't see my application getting past the first initial run through of candidates, never mind securing a job, but that's not why I'm here.
I wonder how hard it'll be to climb the extra floors needed to get Christian's office after this is over? In these shoes, it'll probably be a recipe for disaster but that's my plan.
Suddenly, as if he's read my mind, Taylor, the buzz cut that I remember seeing with Christian, steps from the elevator onto this floor. Studying him closely, I find it hard to picture him being married to Gail. She's so sweet and open, yet her husband, looks very intimidating. Even from across the room.
I can't help but notice how he subtly glances my way as he strides over to the receptionist. Shit, did I spend too much on my blouse? Is the first stupid thought that enters my head. I watch him closely, trying to ignore my quickening pulse as he leans in and speaks quietly to the receptionist.
A few moments later, the receptionist stands. She has a puzzled look on her face, which soon turns into a pissed off frown. She calls out two names and asks the rest of us to leave and reschedule new appointments. As Taylor's eyes flit to mine, I feel my jaw loosen at the absurd thought that this could possibly be about me.
I stand, looking directly toward Taylor. He catches my eye but looks away far to quickly. He's trying for indifference, but I see it. My instincts are right. Christian's done this, he saw me and wants nothing to do with me. He wants me out of this building.
How did he even know I was here?
I try and rein in my paranoia, because surely it can't be true. Christian, didn't even recognize me at the beach the other day, he was pleasant. Not that a two minute conversation is much to go by, but still, at least he never remained silent or ran. He spoke to me and was somewhat civil, but would he really cancel these interviews today, just to get me to leave?
Only one way to find out.
The murmur of disappointed voices and shuffling feet moving towards the elevators, snaps me out of my stupor and brings me back to the room. With everyone else heading for the elevators, I make a snap decision and swiftly follow Taylor.
As he strides down a corridor just off the reception area, I scurry after him to catch him up. He turns sharply to face me when he senses me on his heels, trying hard to hold onto his stoic expression. I see the instant recognition cross his eyes and the micro expression that he can't control, and I know that I'm right to have followed him.
"Why did he do this?" I ask, as soon as I'm within ear shot.
Taylor doesn't reply immediately, he takes a second to study me.
"I'm afraid, I have no idea what you're talking about, Miss." he says politely, before continuing to walk the corridor.
"Sure, you don't." I hear myself mutter, calling him out on his lie.
"You need to vacate the building, the interviews are over for today. If you would follow me, I'll escort you out." he says, indicating that I should follow him but not pausing his stride. I'm virtually running to keep up with him now, and it's starting to piss me off.
"Listen, I will admit that I don't fit in here, and the job isn't important. I just needed a chance to get into the building and see Christian..." he turns to face me as his name leaves my lips. My feet faulter as I nearly run into the back of him.
Taylor's eyes are dark with conjecture at my familiarity. His brow is furrowed deep, and he's really scary when he's pissed.
"I need five minutes with Christian Grey, that's all. If you..." I try and explain before he can say anything.
"If this is regarding him bumping into you at the coffee shop, then..." he interrupts me sharply. His posture, hard and un waving.
"No, it isn't. It's personal." I utter, lowering my voice and pulling in my rising irritation with him and this entire situation.
We're standing, facing each other, three feet apart and I can feel his quizzical gaze from head to toe. We both ignore the people passing around us. Focused totally on each other.
"What personal business could you possibly have with Mr Grey?" he asks, sceptically.
"I'd rather tell him that." I can't help retort.
"As his head of his security, nothing and no one gets close to him without my say so." he says firmly. His eyes, daring me to argue.
I realize suddenly that he's right, this attitude and hostility between us is not going to get me anywhere. It's like downstairs in reception all over again. I need Taylor on my side. He's my way in. Who better to take me to Christian than his own head of security. I need to shake off my frustration and smile. I need to win him over.
He raises an eyebrow, waiting for me to offer more information.
"Do I look like a hit man?" I joke. "Do I look like a company mole or industrial spy? I'm not packing, I promise." I jest further as I raise my arms, ready to be searched.
I attempt to turn but wobble on the precarious heels that Kate attached to my feet. I feel myself flush as Taylor takes hold of my elbow to stop me falling on my ass. I notice the hint of a smile cracks his face, so I dive right in.
"Look, Mr Taylor.." I begin as his hand leaves me.
"Just, Taylor." he interrupts me with a polite and practiced smile.
"Hi, Taylor. Nice to meet you." I say quickly, taking hold of his hand and shaking it firmly.
"Hello, Miss Steele." he replies efficiently, trying to hide his smirk.
"You remember my name." I state, all wide eyed. Trying to appear as if it's an exceptional feat.
"It's my job to remember." he says. His tone, hinting at amusement.
"How true, and very good at it you are too." I add, attempting to flatter his ego.
He virtually snorts at me as I roll my eyes, because I can tell immediately that he's on to me.
"I'm very good, Miss Steele. Which is why I can't allow you see Mr Grey, not without a valid reason. Only then, will I see what can be arranged."
His voice is full of authority, precise and controlled, and I know I'll get no leeway from him unless I tell him something. It's clear that he's very efficient and loyal to Christian, and I'm not going to get back upstairs without his assistance. Confiding in him with the truth is the only way to go. My foolish attempt at charming him won't work. Plus, it's disrespectful to Gail to try and play her husband.
"I need five minutes with Mr Grey. That's it. It's imperative that I speak to him and very personnel." I say simply. Hoping, that he'll take me on just my word.
Taylor's face remains impassive, but his eyebrow lifts expectantly. He's waiting for me to say more and I know I'm a fool to hope that he'd trust me.
"It's a long story." I mutter, sounding a little reluctant, because I'm not relishing the prospect of telling Taylor who I am before I've had a chance to tell Christian.
"Do you realize how busy Mr Grey is? I can't just..." he begins.
"Look," I interrupt him quickly. "If you, could spare me ten minutes, maybe we could go for coffee and I could expl..."
"That will not be possible, right now. I have to head back up to Mr Grey's office, he..." Taylor states firmly, but I can't hold my tongue.
"He'll want to know you've kicked me to the curb." I talk over him, sounding as despondent as I feel.
"Not quite, but I do need to return to him."
Taylor takes my elbow, gently but firmly, and heads with me in tow back towards the elevators behind us. I sigh heavily as I totter along with him. I don't want to leave. I haven't even managed what I set out to do. I don't think I'll get to ascend the stairs now that they know I'm here.
As we reach the nearest elevator and Taylor presses the call button, I look at him hopefully, desperately.
"Please, Taylor. Five minutes." I implore one last time before the elevator doors open.
"He won't want to see you." he says quietly, sounding very certain.
"How can you be so sure?" I state. My desperation turning to frustration at getting so close, then once again, being turned away.
"He saw you, while we rode the elevator earlier. He instructed me to see you out of the building without any explanation." he tells me honestly. It surprises me that his voice and eyes are remorseful. My eyes widen as I feel the hopelessness settle on my face.
"I knew it." I utter, and realize once again, that now isn't my opportunity to get close to him. "I only wanted to speak to him." I mutter more to myself.
Finally excepting defeat, I step onto the awaiting elevator.
"I know you did. Which is why I wish to talk to you." Taylor stuns me by saying as I turn around in the elevator to face him. "I have a few duties to perform first. Please, go down to the lobby, wait for me, I'll be with you in about fifteen minutes." he states firmly, before turning on his heel and leaving me. I agree with a nod and beaming smile to the back of his head, and hardly notice when the doors close and the elevator begins to descend.
.
Taylor.
.
As I step onto Grey's floor, I can feel his absence immediately. I turn to face Andrea and an irate Ros, and I don't even need to ask.
"He came, turned on his heel and went home. What the fuck is wrong with him lately?" Ros demands as soon as I'm within earshot.
"What the hell he's doing going home?" I ask, pissed that he's left the building unprotected.
"Fucked if I know, but sort him out, Taylor. His heads all over the place. His moods, lack of concentration and irritability this past week has driven me crazy. He's the one that wanted to jump right into a new project. I, wanted a couple of fucking weeks off." Ros snaps as she turns and heads back to her floor.
Urgently pulling out my phone, I only relax once I've tracked Grey's phone through the GPS and found that he's already reached Escala. I head towards my office and once seated, call Welch. He picks up immediately and without any preamble I dive right in.
"I need you to find out everything you can about a woman who was with Human Resources earlier. Her name's Steele."
Welch, confirms my request with an affirmative, mouth filled grunt, before the line goes dead. Settling at my desk and quickly access the in-house CCTV. I pull up the lobby cameras and focus on Miss Steele as she sits nervously, waiting for me in reception.
I stare at her, taking her all in. Trying to comprehend how she could possibly know Grey. She has the look he prefers, that's for sure, but she isn't an ex of his. I can say with certainty that I've never seen her before the incident in the coffee shop. I remember Grey's reaction to her that day, how he fled the scene, and also, how he's behaved ever since.
She must mean something. But what?
I know he's been distracted and more irritable that normal. His sleep pattern is more erratic and his dreams are more regular than they've ever been. His screaming and yelling during the early hours, could wake the dead. So I know something has been troubling beyond the norm.
I keep my eyes on the woman in reception. Could she be the reason behind his recent strange behaviour?
I sit back in my chair and still with my eyes on Miss Steele, I ponder over what connection theses two could possibly have between them. I'm surprised and very wary of Grey's response to her. He obviously remembers and recognizes her, but why the volatile reaction? Why is he keeping quiet? I know I'll get nothing from Grey, not until he's ready anyway. I need to talk to Miss Steele. I'm very eager to hear what she has to say. Find out what the fuck is going on.
It is my job after all.
.
Ana.
.
Sitting in the plush lobby of Grey House, I can feel the hostile eyes of the receptionist upon me. She spotted me as soon as I stepped off the elevator, but so far, she's been to busy to approach me. I know she's close to heading over, and with that thought, I hear the tell tale sound of heels heading my way.
I turn in my seat towards her confidently, and can't fail to notice how her eyes widen when she takes in my shoes. By the time she's closed the gap between us and her eyes have risen to meet mine they're once again the cold, hard orbs that I've come to expect.
"Excuse me, the interviews have been held for today, do you need any more assistance?" she asks sweetly, but I can see that it's all just pretence. She really just wants to throw me out again.
"I've got this, Maggie." Taylor suddenly appears from behind her, answering for me.
I stand confidently, smiling, when I realize that we're now eye to eye. Maggie, continues to smile as her eyes widen eagerly. She no doubt thinks, and clearly hopes, that Taylor's going to escort me out. I match her smile and confidence, relishing the shock on her face when Taylor greets me by name.
"Sorry, I've kept you waiting, Miss Steele. Are you ready to go?" he says pleasantly, causing Maggie to lose her smile and begin to frown.
"It's fine, Taylor." I reply cheerfully. Purposefully including his name like we're old friends.
I turn to face Maggie, Taylor following suit. We both watch as her gaze bounces between the two of us and even I can see the questions in her eyes. She holds her tongue, nods respectfully towards Taylor and without so much as a look my way, she turns and heads back to her desk. Her footsteps, a little heavier this time.
"Friend of yours?" Taylor asks, hardly missing the hostility that passed between us. I shake my head as I roll my eyes.
"No, she took great pleasure in having me evicted the last time I was here. I think she was hoping for a repeat performance." I tell him honestly and hear his low chuckle.
"Shall we?" Taylor says, as he turns and heads towards the large glass doors of Grey House.
"What reason did you have for being in Grey House before?" he asks as we step out onto the busy street. I don't miss the hint of suspicion in his voice.
"I just popped in, hoping to make an appointment with Christian, but she laughed me out of the building with the help of a suit. No offense" I confess honestly and hide my smile as Taylor chuckles to himself.
I follow Taylor to the coffee shop on the corner, and he's surprised when we enter and the barista welcomes me by name.
"Hi, Ana. The usual?" she calls. Sounding all bright and breezy, despite being so busy.
"Please, Beth." I reply, as I smile a greeting to the young girl I've grown to know behind the counter. Taylor's quizzical eyes don't leave me for a second.
"This coffee shop has the best hot chocolate in the city." I state in explanation.
He doesn't need to know that this building's like my second home, and that I know the names of most of the people that work in all four corners of this building. Taylor doesn't say anything, but continues to eye me sceptically.
We take a seat after Taylor orders, and with no preamble or small talk he dives straight in.
"Miss Steele, why do you need to see Christian Grey?" he asks.
"Ana, call me Ana." I answer. Realizing, that if I have to tell him my life story, then he should at least be calling me by my first name.
"Do you know him? Ana." Taylor questions me again.
"We met when we were children." I answer simply, and see the interest grow on his face immediately.
Beth, heads over and places our drinks in front of us, but her actions don't interrupt our interaction.
"You knew him personally?" he asks, and I simply nod. "How?"
How? Well he saved my life. Could be my simple reply, but somehow, I think Taylor will want a bit more information than that.
How much do I tell him? I guess with him being Christian's head of security, it's all or nothing at this point.
"Do you know much about Christian's childhood?" I ask, gathering my thoughts and preparing myself mentally to retell my story from the beginning.
"Of course, I do. I know everything there is to know about him." he states confidently.
"Do you know how Christian obtained the scars he has on his body?" I ask Taylor quietly.
As my question hangs in the air, I pull the plastic lid from my cup, aiding the liquid to cool. I need the sugar and warmth right now, but it's just to hot to enjoy. I blow gently into my cup, too impatient to wait.
Taylor's eyes crease with anger at my question, and I know it seems like a strange question to start with, but like Leila, he's close to Christian. He and his wife, live with him, travel with him, he must have seen Christian's body at some point. It will be easier for us both, if he knows where this conversation is going to go from the start.
"Miss Steele, if this is an attempt to extort or blackmail him, then I think..." Taylor begins sharply, but I soon talk over him.
"No, Taylor, I would never do that to Christian." I say firmly as Taylor eyes me doubtfully. "The night Christian was hurt...I was there." I say firmly, before he can say anything else.
He sits up straighter and his face screws up in speculation and clear disbelief. He begins to shake his head slowly, looking at me closely. It's clear he doesn't believe me, and his opinion of me is diminishing with every second that passes. His angry eyes tell me clearly that he thinks I'm up to no good.
"I was there, Taylor. I saw what happened to him." I repeat, before his agitation can climb any further.
"No one saw what happened that night. Everyone that was involved in that accident sadly passed away at the scene." he says confidently.
"Not everyone." I say pointed, but softly.
We stare at each other, silently, as the minutes tick by. He eyes me closely trying to get a read on me. Trying to see if I'm lying or not. I take a sip of my drink, allowing his scrutiny as I mentally prepare to open up to him. I have too.
"Christian was hurt, when my fathers car exploded." I begin to explain, but pause as I watch Taylor's eyes widen in disbelief. "He was hurt saving my life...and the life of the dog he now owns...Tess, she was mine once." I tell him with an uncontrollable growing smile.
"What?" he exclaims, surprised.
"Tess, was originally mine." I repeat, as he shakes his head. He's clearly shocked by what I've told him. He'll probably be on the floor by the time I've finished.
"Tell me everything, and start at the very beginning." Taylor orders, as he raises his arm attracting Beth's attention and orders us both more drinks. Looks like we're going to be here for a while.
"You don't want the edited version?" I suggest with a smile.
"No. I want to know everything." he says firmly, making himself comfortable.
I nod, picking up my cup and holding it firmly in both my palms. I focus on the heat that's warming my skin as I mirror his posture and settle back into my seat.
"I met Christian, when he was fifteen years old. I was twelve." I begin. "We were both camping, spending time with our fathers up north. I have an Aunt up there, she and my dad had conspired and gotten me a pup for my birthday. That's how Christian and I met. Tess, fell into the lake while I was playing with her and well, he jumped into the water and saved her. I thanked him, kissed him and shared my sandwiches with him." I chuckle, and feel a flush as the memory recall is so clear.
Taylor nods, encouraging me to continue. His eyes are wide, curious, eager and he seems to be hanging on my every word. I take a few slugs of my hot chocolate before I can say more. It's gotten easier talking about this, but it's still painful.
"We spent a little time together before we left. Not much, because Christian was older and busy with his dad, but he liked to play with Tess, so our paths did cross a few times. I saw him and his father the day of the accident, we shared a goodbye, and I never thought I'd see him again, but our cars hit each other head on...later that night."
"Dear Lord." Taylor mutters, shaking his head minutely and swigging off his coffee. I pause for thought as the images replay. "Please continue, if you're able, Ana." Taylor urges after a minute or two. I smile at his obvious compassion and sudden tenderness.
"The accident came out of the blue." I utter, drifting back and seeing everything so clearly. It still feels like only yesterday. "My dad and I were singing, Tess was sleeping in her crate beside me. It was a dry, clear night but the next thing I know, my dad is dead and I'm hanging upside down."
"Were you hurt?" Taylor interrupts. Concern, clear on his face. I shake my head with a small grateful smile.
"A few cuts and bruises, nothing serious, but I was stuck. I was scared, panicking, crying. Tess was afraid and yapping and I could smell the gasoline. I knew I was in trouble. I tried to pull myself free but my seat belt held me tightly. The next thing I know, Christian is crawling through the broken window underneath me, trying to pull me free. I didn't know, not until that moment, that it was his fathers car that we'd hit."
"Was he injured?" Taylor ask. I pause, shaking my head.
"No, at that point, he only had superficial wounds like me."
"So, what happened?" Taylor prompts. Obviously curious to find out how Christian was injured.
"My seat belt wouldn't release me, no matter how hard Christian tried. He left me to retrieved his fishing knife from his car. He managed to cut me free, but neither of us were strong enough to support my weight. When I fell, I landed on top of him, the car rocked, and the knife he was still holding stuck me in the chest."
My hand involuntarily rises and brushes the indentation on my chest. I can feel it easily through the thin layer of silk.
Taylors face is frozen in bewilderment, but despite what he must be thinking, his eyes follow my hand. I unbutton the top two buttons of my shirt and reveal my scar to Taylor. He curses under his breath as we share a look, and even though this is all news to him, and seems so far fetched, I know that he now believes me.
"What happened next?" he ask gently. His eyes, still focused on my chest.
"Christian, he was only young, had just lost his father, he was frightened, scared about what he'd done, yet he wouldn't give up on me. He pulled me free from the car. He carried me to safety...He saved my life." I gush, just before my voice hints at breaking.
"You were both clear of the vehicles at this point?" Taylor asks. No doubt picturing what I'm retelling. I nod in confirmation. "Then how..."
I take a deep breath.
"Christian went back to the car." I utter softly. The guilt as prominent within me as it's always been. "We could hear Tess, struggling to get free from her crate. I selfishly begged him to help her...I.."
Taylor smiles at me compassionately as my voice hitches and I feel my eyes fill with tears.
"He was hurt because of me." I whisper, as the remorse I've carried with me for so long, grips and tightens my throat.
"Ana, I don't..."
"At the time." I continue, as if Taylor hadn't spoken, "I didn't realize how dangerous it was. It was only when Christian went back inside the car and I saw the flames...I tried to shout him, warn him, but I was drowsy, dizzy and had lost so much blood. When Christian reappeared with Tess in his arms, I thought he'd be okay, but the last thing I saw was the car exploding and Christian flying through the air, engulfed by flames...I didn't even see him hit to the floor... I never saw him again."
I take a deep breath trying to control my emotions as Taylor hands me a handkerchief. "Then what happened to you?"
"I'm not sure, I passed out. When I woke up in the hospital the next day after surgery, they told me I was the only survivor."
"But you obviously weren't." Taylor states.
"No, I tried to ask my Aunt Meg about Christian when I woke up, but she said I was the only one brought into the hospital alive. I felt so guilty and hated myself for causing his death, that I never mentioned Christian again... I kept everything to myself" I admit. "I never even knew Christian had survived until a few weeks ago. I was..."
"How did you find out?" Taylor interrupts.
"The Ten year anniversary of that night has just past, Christian visited the crash site and left flowers. He left a card, saying goodbye to his father and mentioning me by name. A local man saw him, noticed his Seattle plates, and I traced the flowers to Seattle, came here and hired a Priva..."
"You've had a Private Investigator, looking into Grey?" he interrupts, sounding astounded and slightly vexed.
"Don't worry," I assure him quickly. "William Grant, is a good guy. He knows my story and respects Christian, he even knows his mom. Will's wife, aids Mrs Grey with her charity work. I've paid for the best and his discretion is guaranteed. He's no threat to Christian. I promise" I explain quickly.
Taylor, nods slowly, keeping his eyes on mine while he thinks over what I've told him. He shocked, wary, compassionate, but I can see his apprehension. So, what happens now?
It's foolish of me to think that Taylor will just take me upstairs and allow me to see Christian, but hopefully I've acquired another friend that will aid me in getting close to him again. I just need to keep Taylor on side.
"So, can I speak to Christian?" I ask, regardless of knowing the outcome.
Taylors frown deepens and his eye crease with uncertainty as he holds his tongue.
"Taylor?" I urge. Suddenly feeling very impatient and nervous.
"Give me a minute, you've given me a lot to think about." he says, exhaling a deep breath.
"Thank you, for sparing the time and letting me explain." I gush, hoping to sway him.
"Thank you, for sharing what happened with me. I never knew any of this, and it worri..."
"What has you worried?" I ask quickly.
"Mr Grey, has kept this information to himself for years, no doubt for a reason. His reaction to you earlier was extreme and instant. Nothing I've ever seen before. When he saw you, he ordered me to..."
I chuff, with a melancholy smile, causing Taylor to pause. "Don't worry Taylor, I'm not interested in getting a job here. It's also not the first time Christian's dismissed or ignored me."
"No?" Taylor asks, obviously only aware of the time we met in the coffee shop and instantly interested.
"I've ran into him while out running." I state simply.
"And?" he questions, knowing there's more from the look on my face.
"And nothing, we bumped into each other, I fell on my ass. Christian quickly apologized and left me sitting on the side walk. You witnessed his reaction to me in the coffee shop, he didn't recognize me and fled as soon as he could...he always runs away" I mutter to myself as my voice drifts off.
"He also ran today." Taylor mutters, and my mouth pops open in surprise. Taylor ignores my reaction.
"Mr Grey's reaction to you is what worries me. The fact that he's left his building and gone home shows that he clearly doesn't want to speak to you. Mr Grey is not the type of man who..."
"You're wrong, Taylor. I met him and Tess on the beach last week, he spoke then. He was pleasant, in a fashion," I butt in quickly.
"Christ, how on earth did you meet him and Tess at the beach? What happened when you met him?" he exclaims, and I can see his surprise and agitation because I've shocked him once again.
oh, crap. He'll be dead by the time we've finished.
"I've...rented an annex along the way from him." I utter contritely as Taylor closes his eyes and pinches the bridge of his nose. "Don't worry, I didn't just bounce down the road and knock on his front door. He was running on the beach, so I went and said hello to Tess. She remembered me." I share with a genuine smile. "Christian returned, he was surprised that Tess let me pet her. He didn't linger to converse much or introduce himself, but he was polite."
"You never approached him again...over the weekend?" he asks cautiously and I know what he must be thinking.
"No, I could see Christian had company...and I didn't want to bother them. I know you're not with him over the weekends Taylor, and you probably feel like I've been slipping through your security time and time again, putting Christian at risk but believe me, I've never meant any harm. I just wish to speak to him, but I never seem to get the chance to explain who I am. I'll admit, that the first time I saw him he was so like the boy I knew, yet a man I can't get near or fathom, and it scared me...he's very intimidating on the surface. I freeze when ever I'm around him."
Taylor nods in understanding.
"You're full of surprises Ana, and very resourceful not to mention adamant, so I'm sure we'll figure this out." he says convincingly and sounding slightly awed.
"I've even befriended his girlfriend, Leila." I state proudly, then could kick myself, when I see Taylor's pride in me drop.
"What?" he states, sounding shocked. I mouthe the word 'sorry' causing him to shake his head in bemusement. "Is there nothing you won't do? Do you wanna job with me, you're quite the interloper." he continues, chuckling, despite his annoyance with me.
Oh, if only you knew Taylor. Shit, I wonder how pissed he'll be once he finds out I've also interacted with his wife.
"Don't worry, I've not told Leila who I am, nor have I mentioned Christian to her. I've become good friends with her roommate Kate, so I met her that way. I never approached her directly." Taylor seems appeased by my honestly and lack of vindictiveness.
"I know it seems like I'm some mad stalker." I begin.
"You think?" Taylor interrupts, with a roll of his eyes and a shake of his head.
"I'm not, I promise. I've just been desperate to see him and covered all bases, jumping on every opportunity that's become available. Like today. Will, found out about the interviews, pulled a few strings and got me in, but it was pointless."
"You met me." Taylor says, pointedly.
"Good point." I retort.
"What else has Will Grant, done to assist you." Taylor asks suddenly. His eyes wary.
"Nothing invasive or intrusive, I promise. He just found out Christian's basic schedule and routine for me. Meeting Leila, and renting the beach house were down to me, Will didn't even know until after the fact. Meeting Christian at the coffee shop and while out running, were both complete accidents. I had hoped today would turn out a little better, even though I knew the jobs available weren't directly working around Christian, but I thought if I was at least in the building I might've stood a chance of bumping into him in the lifts, or in the lobby if I timed it right. Anything."
"That would never have been possible." Taylor chuckles. "Mr Grey has his own elevator and a floor for himself and his execs. It was sheer bad luck on your part that he even saw you today. If his elevator wasn't under repair he would never have been in the communal elevator at that time."
"Sods law." I mutter, with a roll of my eyes. "What happened when he saw me?" I ask, hesitantly. Not sure if I want to know. I hope he didn't have a coronary.
"As I mentioned earlier, he asked me to make sure you left the building." he says, very diplomatically. Giving nothing else away.
I sigh heavily and get a little irritated by this reluctance. "Mr Grey, obviously has his reason for avoiding you, Ana. For now, respect his need for privacy and keep your distance, I will..."
"I don't know if I can do that Taylor, I need to tell him who I am. He needs to know that I'm alive. I know how painful this has been for him, I can see it in his face. Can't you? It was my pain too, remember...Let me help him." I almost beg.
"Let me speak to him first." Taylor says firmly.
"I know how he feels Taylor, he has so much anger, guilt and pain bubbling inside of him. Surely seeing me, will help erase all of that." I've just spilled my guts to this man, shared everything with him. It can't have been for nothing. He has to help.
"It not that simple, Mr Grey is..."
"For Ten years I thought he was dead, Taylor." I interrupt sharply. "For Ten years, Christian's believed that he killed me. Can you imagine what that's like to live with?" I snap at him, not really expecting an answer, but a look flashes across Taylors face that makes me believe he knows what I mean. "You can't imagine how it felt, when I realized he was still alive. My whole being changed and all the weight I'd been carrying around with me, just lifted."
"Ana, I understand what you're saying, but we cant just barge in and..."
"I know that you have to do what's best for him, it's you're job." I cut in firmly. "But you have until next weekend to talk to him, give him my number, or tell him about me... or I'm pulling out plan B." I tell him firmly, and I mean it. I need to speak to Christian and I'm prepared to do anything to accomplish that. Even follow Kate's, crazy scheme.
"Plan B?" Taylor asks, his voice apprehensive.
"It doesn't matter right now." I state dismissively. Taking a minute to calm myself.
"I'm not surprised you have other things up your sleeve, you're very resourceful, but please Ana, don't do anything stupid or anything that could have you arrested. Plus, you don't know Mr Grey, he can be volatile and you wouldn't want to make him angry. Let me talk to him and I'll be in touch." he tries to appease me.
"Thank you Taylor, but I mean it, if you don't help me, I will help myself."
"I've gathered as much." he says with a smirk and we both stand from the table to leave. "Do you need a ride home?" he asks politely.
"No, I've a few things to do before I head back to the beach." I tell him, thinking I'll pop in to see Will and Sylvia, before leaving the city.
"Fine. It was good speaking to you Ana, and I will be in touch, but please, remember what I've said." he says trying to sound enforcing.
"I will, bye Taylor. I'd say, say hi to Christian for me, but somehow I don't think it would go down too well, so you can say 'hi' to Gail for me instead." I say cheerfully without thought, and I know I've signed my own death warrant with my own big mouth, the second I finish my sentence. I look at Taylor slowly, cautiously and his face has grown livid.
"You've spoken to my wife?" he growls. I nod, slowly and sheepishly. "Why am I even surprised." he snipes.
"I didn't tell her anything, or mention Christian. We just happen to meet at the grocery store." I tell him truthfully. "We spoke, we shopped, we shared a recipe or two, that was it. She seems really nice." I tell him sincerely but he still looks pissed off.
"You've gone too far this time. My wife could never help you." he says angrily. "How you could even..."
"Calm down Taylor, I didn't do anything. I just wanted to know the woman closest to Christian, that's all." I snap defensively, as I take a step to walk past him.
Taylor's having none of it, and as he pulls out his phone he takes hold of my wrist and pushes me back into my seat.
"Sit." he snaps. "I can't believe you approached my wife. When was this?"
"Last week, before she went to the beach house." I reply as Taylor rolls his eyes, clearly exasperated with me.
I can understand his anger and frustration with me. He probably feels pretty inadequate right now. I've been slipping through holes in his security and he hasn't even realized it. It wouldn't do to giggle right now, so I chew my bottom lip to curb myself.
"Why did you approach her?" Taylor snaps, while scrolling through his phone.
"Well, I couldn't get near you." I tease, hoping to lighten the mood. I see the hint of a reluctant smile.
"Hi baby." Taylor says suddenly into his phone. I hear Gail's reply through the handset as he sits down beside me.
"Jason, where are you? Mr Grey is at home." she says, her voice expressing her worry.
"I know, I'll be home soon myself. How does he seem?" Taylor asks. My eyebrows rise at his sudden soft and easy tone.
"He's a little rattled, but he's settled at his piano." she whispers.
I knew it was him in the back room of the music store. I knew he played.
"Well, I think I might know why." Taylor mutters to his wife as he looks at me sideways.
"Me too." Gail says with a chuckle into his ear.
"You can tell me when I get home, right now, I need to ask you something, sweetheart." he turns and looks at me pointedly, and I know that if he doubts me in anyway, I'll pay for approaching his wife.
"Sure, what is it?" she responds.
"Last week, did you happen to meet someone while you where shopping for the beach house? A young woman maybe?"
"You mean, Ana?" she says excitedly. I ease beside Taylor as I notice his posture soften at the joy in his wife's voice.
"Yes, Ana." he repeats, sounding surly. At least he now knows that I never caused her harm.
"Oh, she's a lovely girl. She's the one who gave me the recipe for the goulash we had for dinner last night." I smirk and wink at Taylor, as I hear her jubilant tone. "Why Jason? Do you know Ana? Has anything happened to her?" she gushes, her panic growing with her stream of questions.
"Hi Gail." I say loudly so she can hear me.
"Ana, Is that you? How are you dear?" she asks eagerly.
"I'm fine, I'm glad to hear that my Aunt Meg's goulash went down well." I chirp, leaning in towards Taylor.
"It did, thank you, Jason had seconds." she says cheerfully, and I chuckle softly as Taylor looks embarrassed and shifts beside me.
"Okay baby, I have to go." he jumps in cutting her short, preparing to end the call.
"Oh... okay, see you soon Jason, bye Ana. I'm sure I'll see you very soon but call me, okay... soon." she says pointedly, causing Taylor to side eye me once again.
"Will do Gail, take care." I manage to shout before Taylor abruptly ends the call.
"See, no harm. If anything, you should be glad we both made a new friend, and...I got your taste buds going."
"No matter how your meeting went, you shouldn't have done it Ana."
"I know and I'm sorry, but I had to try everything I could think of." I tell him truthfully.
"Have you approached any other member of Mr Grey's family?" Taylor ask suddenly. I shake my head quickly.
"Wills, intel, showed that Christian doesn't spend much time with his family. So, there didn't seem much point. I would never dream of approaching his mother at work, his sister Mia is currently in France. Even his brother Elliot, is working out of town, so it wouldn't have done me any good."
Taylor shakes his head once again, totally blown away and bewildered by how much I know, how much thought I've put into this, and also some of the things I've done.
"I know you're wary and cautious, and why should you believe a stranger off the street? but I promise you, Taylor, what I've told you is the truth. All I want is to say thank you to him for saving my life." I open my blouse and reveal my scar to him once again. "Christian thinks he killed me, Taylor. We have to rectify that, we have to put him as ease and end his suffering."
"I know, and I'll help you." he stuns me by saying.
"You will?" I breathe, eased and reassured.
"Yes." he says assertively.
"Thank you." I whisper, as I feel my tears swell.
.