Which Straw Broke the Camels Back?
Christian's POV:
I throw the paper on the down, and there is Sawyer, standing I front of us with an iPad in his hand.
"Mr and Mrs Grey, you both should have a look at this," He says cautiously handing us the iPod. Ana and I read the online newspaper article and immediately our moods worsen again.
Christian Grey's daughter in a different kind of Merger and Acquisition – The Seattle Nooz
Fresh from her Harvard graduation and travels to the Southern Hemisphere, the only daughter of Seattle richest Couple, Christian Grey, CEO of Grey Enterprise, and Anastasia Grey, CEO of Grey Publishing, Phoebe Grey, showed that she is interested in more than just the usual mergers and acquisitions that Grey Enterprise offers..
Seattle's recently returned socialite, Phoebe Grey, was seen hitting the night life of Seattle last night, with a group of friends, visiting several clubs and throwing back more than a few drinks. She is considered to be one of most desired 'A' list young women in American, but it seems as if she may already be taken.
In a move sure to get tongues wagging, Phoebe left in the early hours of the morning with a new beau, and was seen kissing, in an alleyway. A source close to Phoebe Grey, has named her beau as Joshua Harris, a long-time family friend of her older brother Theodore Grey, who was also his best man and the Godfather to his son, Eli Christian Grey. An interesting choice, especially as the young and exceptionally attractive Grey has never been romantically linked before.
It has been confirmed that her Joshua Harris is close to twenty years older than the young twenty-one year old. Phoebe Grey, was born eighteen years after her brother, when their parents reunited after a long separation.
Joshua Harris is a highly respected and prominent litigator who is believed to have relocated from New York and has taken over the senior partner position of his firm's Seattle branch, and it is clear from these photo's has his move is reaping rewards.
Little is known of how the Grey family has taken to the news of the courtship of Phoebe Grey and Joshua Harris, even if they are aware of the relationship. It is well known that our own billionaire Christian Grey is extremely protective of his family, and especially his little girl. Joshua Harris better hope he is welcomed with open arms.
Phoebe Grey, taking after her brother and father, has recently commenced work at Grey Enterprise, specifically in mergers and acquisitions (M&A). From these photos, it is clear that she has learnt more about the M&A than the business based as Phoebe Grey seems to be merging with Joshua Harris and undeniably acquiring him.
The report also features several photos. It makes my blood boil just looking at them. The first photo has Phoebe and Joshua, entering a club with a bunch of my daughter's girlfriends, and their partners. The rest of the photos are in sequence and tell their own story. Phoebe and Josh exiting the club, hand in hand, minus their friends. In the next photo, they seem to be laughing. Phoebe looks a little flushed, and I can tell she has been drinking. The fourth photo has them in a tight embrace, but the next three certainly take the cake. They have walked into an alley and are kissing. Really kissing, but the fact that Josh's hands are on my daughter is what angers me most. First on her arms, then her face and then her back. Fuck knows where his hands have been since.
"Damn the paparazzi, but our daughter fell right into this one!" I mention trying to keep my anger at bay, but it becomes harder with each second that passes...
"I will ring Phoebe. She knows to be smarter than this in public, even if she has been drinking." Ana is undeniably furious.
"No, don't. Ana leave it. It isn't going to help" Ana looks at me shocked, with good reason. Usually I would be going thermonuclear. I count backwards from ten, and text Taylor requesting him to join us in the kitchen. As usual he is extremely prompt.
"Taylor. Have you seen the article?" I ask make sure he is on the same page.
"Yes, Sawyer notified me about it. I have just tracked Phoebe's phone, and she is at her apartment. I have already sent her old CPO over to make sure the site is secure and no media is about. He should be getting back to me soon" Taylor responds. I need to give these two men a raise. They know what I want before I have even communicated it.
"Brilliant security needs tailgate our daughter around the clock. They need to be discreet, but thorough. I know Phoebe has rejected security since Friday evening; nevertheless these photos prove protection is more than warranted. Hire another CPO, whatever, just make it happen." Taylor and Sawyer both nod, before walking off to put my request into action.
I tug at Ana's hand, so she ends up sitting on my lap. I wrap my arms around her and bury my nose into her hair.
"I can't believe how much everything has changed so quickly. I picture Phoebe, and I see our sweet, polite and clever little girl, running around outside and sitting down drawing. Where did she go? What are we going to do?" Ana asks.
"We will think of something. Phoebe needs to realize what we all already know. That her relationship with Josh needs to stop." I reply, not quite answering her question. I know she is actually asking how we are going to get our daughter back and repair our relationship with her. However, for the first time I actually do not know what to do exactly. I do know that I need to see Flynn.
"Do you think Phoebe knows about the article?" I check the time of the article and see that it was posted at 5am, only three hours ago.
"I doubt it. According to the article Phoebe and Josh were out particularly late and, so they are probably still sleeping." I advise Ana.
"I miss our daughter. At least I can see Phoebe at Ros's birthday lunch today." Ana says with a small smile. Shit, I had forgotten about lunch!
"Fuck, not another meal." I run my hands through my hair, frustrated.
"I spoke to Ros last night; Josh isn't invited to this one for Ted's sake. However, Ros refuses to take sides. Her exact words where, 'just like I don't take Christians shit at work, I won't take his shit over this'. Ana recites.
"That sounds like Ros. At least she hasn't lost her attitude as she has aged." Ana and I both laugh lightly.
"Christian, no matter what Phoebe is still our daughter"
"I know that. Why do you think I just sent security over to protect her? I won't have her be subjected by the media. I will protect her to the end of time."
"Maybe we should just accept their relationship. It might just end gradually" Ana suggests conflicted.
"I can't. It isn't right. I am just worried that it might not just end"
"I know"
# # # #
Ana's POV:
Christian and I grin at each other as the elevator doors close. To this day, we both still don't know what it is about them. We both gravitate to the back, so everyone has their backs to us. The other people in the elevator are oblivious to the fact that Christian is running his hand over my backside and then ever so subtlety under my dress. I am eternally grateful when everyone exits the elevator one floor before Ros and Gwen's apartment.
"Mr Grey, you should know that I expect to be taken across the road to Escala after this lunch." Christian moans joyfully.
"We aim to please Mrs Grey, and, please expect to be taken over more than just across the road." My muscles tighten deliciously at the prospect.
The elevator doors open, and standing there is our daughter. All stand still for what feels like hours, but in reality it is just seconds.
"Phoebe," I say. She looks at us and then down to the ground.
"Hello Mom and Dad." She then smiles a little and once we have exited the elevator she enters it.
"Where are you going? Ros's birthday lunch is starting soon." Christian comments entering CEO mode, however; I know he is only doing so to protect himself. The truth is that he wants to see Phoebe. Nothing would make him happier than for her to join us at this lunch and talk to us about anything but her and Josh. I would love to hear her laugh with us. Like it used to be before all this started.
"I have just been to see Ros and wished her a happy birthday. I have am leaving now because I don't want to, cause her birthday to go down the same route as Friday's night dinner. It isn't fair to her." Phoebe says sadly, remembering the unfortunate evening.
"Get out of the elevator. It won't go badly because Josh isn't here. Out of sight, out of mind" Christian is sharp and harsh in his statement, hurting our daughter.
"But I think about him always." Phoebe then sighs. "Look mom and dad, I didn't want any of these unpleasant events to occur, but…" Our daughter's impassioned plea is then interrupted by Christian.
"Have you seen the Seattle Nooz today?" Christian asks annoyed.
"No. Why?" Phoebe asks worried.
"You're a smart girl. Look it up" Christian snarls and walks away to Ros's apartment. I quickly slip into the elevator before it closes and press the ground button. At least this gives Phoebe and me some time to talk, without interruption, even if it is short.
"Mom, I am sorry," Phoebe says looking at me, desperately.
"I know. So am I. Are you well? How is your apartment? How is Josh doing?" I ask concerned for her well being.
"The apartment is superb. I kind of miss having a backyard and so much open space, however; the apartment has everything we need, and now we just need to finish furnishing it. We managed to get the necessities quick enough. I am alright, and so is Josh. He is worried about me not having much contact with the family, but we have each other." Phoebe informs me.
"We don't want you out of our lives." I clarify for her.
"However I am being made to choose between the man I love and the family I love" Phoebe points out. I reach over and hug my daughter.
"Not entirely. Meet me for lunch tomorrow, just you and I?" I ask.
"Sure. I have the monthly review meeting in the morning, but that will be over by noon."
"Excellent. Let's meet at the café opposite Grey House then" I confirm and feel a sense of hope.
"You know what dad said about the Seattle Nook, is it bad?" Phoebe asks worried. She has no idea that photos got taken of her last night and were sold.
"I will let you decide that one for yourself." I say as the elevator doors open.
"Okay mom. Also, can you tell Dad, that if he wants security to be discreet, then they should wear more casual clothing or get someone besides Ryan on me?" Phoebe says smiling and winking at me. It might have been just for a few seconds then, but I just saw my daughter, the way she genuinely is. Clever, playful and full of life.
Phoebe's POV:
"Phoebe, are you ready for the monthly review?" Ros asks me while focusing on her iPhone at my office door. "Whoa what is all that?" She asks referring to the four folders in my hand.
"Initiative." I reply. "Remember when I started working here, and you told me my father would be professional and leave family matters at home?"
"Yes."
"Does that still apply?" I ask to seek confirmation. I need to know if I should present this idea or not.
"I would say so, though you have undoubtedly made things a little harder. Nonetheless, I have worked with your father for a long time while he has gone through many different personal issues. Christian has always remained professional and done what is in the best interests of the company and its employees. As I told on your first day at work, that whilst your father is the ultimate professional, this is his company and his word is final." Ros reminds me.
"Good and Understood." I reply
"Also Phoebe, I would advise you though, to keep out of the tabloids." Ros states seriously. I cringe at the mere mention and thought of that article and photos. It was awful! Josh and I were both appalled at it and taught us a valuable lesson.
As Ros and I, both enter my father's office, I hear my name being said as my dad and Ted talk quietly. They immediately cease their conversation and join us on the couch. No pleasantries or glances are even shared. My dad is on full CEO mode, whilst Ted is matching his demeanor right now.
An hour and a half into our meeting and we get to the part that I have been waiting for. Throughout this meeting, there hasn't been one comment or sign that there are family issues, and I start to regain some of my confidence. I know that this is the time to present what I have been working on.
"We need to find a solution. None of our manufacturing sector has the resources which are mobile enough, to start producing the new solar projects. The input costs far outweigh the profit levels for about a decade, and I don't want to carry dead weight for that long" My father declares.
"I actually might have a solution there. One of the companies I have been researching, 'Heartland'..." I commence to explain
"Heartland? They produce aftermarket car parts. We are talking about solar energy, not air filters, and engines" Ted scoffs.
"Phoebe, maybe you need to do more research first." My father says with indignation.
"I have done my research. Ted, your right, 'Heartland' produces aftermarket car parts, but that is only the primary sector of the firm. They have a minor subsidiary manufacturing division in Michigan that they set up to produce environmentally safe and solar powered car parts." I pass them each a copy of the prepared files on the company. Ros is the only one seriously examining the data. Ted is glancing over it, but I get the feeling that my father is humoring me.
"Five years ago, when there was a push on more environmentally safe equipment and cars, Heartland, thought they would get in early and set up this branch. They equipped it to produce environmentally friendly manufactured goods. It cost them millions, and when the promised land of more environmentally sound automobiles failed to deliver and ended, the company closed the Michigan branch down. There was no demand for environmental friendly automotive products so they couldn't find a buyer for this manufacturing branch. So it has essentially sat there. It is more than adaptable for our needs and cost effective. It is also fully functional." I stop to give everyone a few moments to absorb the information I have just given them. All three of them are going through the documents, financial records and report I have written and complied.
"But the cost factor remains. It is still too expensive. " My father declares.
"Not when you examine the big picture. If you..." I try to explain
"Phoebe, it is in your report. You did write this didn't you?" My brother's voice has a strong mocking tone. Actually he is being border line rude.
"Of course I did." I snap back
"I have met the owner of 'Heartland' and have known him for years. He is close to retirement and will only sell the business as a whole. Buying the auto-part company and the Michigan branch, will be as costly as modifying one of our current manufacturing companies. It is all in your report in page five and then page ten" My dad states. I can't believe he isn't seeing what I am.
"Well then obviously Grey Enterprises does what it has done since it commenced. We acquire the Michigan branch, and then sell of the car part sector. We can't lose." I say.
"Interesting. Might work." Ros notes. Internally I smile widely at Ros.
"No." My father says throwing down the file.
"What?" I ask.
"No. It won't work. We need an alternative solution" My father says coldly.
"But Dad, just check out the numbers and the company. This will work" I assert.
"I am the CEO of this company, and when I say no, I mean no. Now let's proceed to the merger of..." I phase out of the meeting. I can't believe my father has totally dismissed this idea. I have even previously mentioned this idea to him to and from work for the two weeks before Josh returned. He never once said it might not work. Just as my thoughts return to the here and now, the meeting comes to an end. I calmly walk out of the office, and then once out of my fathers and brothers sight, I storm into my office and close my door. Ten minutes later I am still fuming, and Ros enters my office.
"Okay Phoebe, I am going to talk to you as your line manager, friend and someone who has known you all your life. You need to calm down. I have told you this is your fathers company and when he means no, that's it. I don't take his shit, but I know the bottom line" Ros advises me.
"I know that, and I respect that. However, honestly tell me, as my line manager, friend and someone who has known me all your life, that my plan didn't have merit. Tell me that it didn't warrant further investigation" I challenge.
"Phoebe... look..." For the first time ever Ros is hesitating, to answer a question.
"Just tell me the truth. That is all I am asking. If my proposal was not a sufficient option, then I will accept and learn from it. I just want an honest evaluation." I say deflated.
"Your proposition had merit. We would have needed to investigate it future to be sure, but it was a solid idea and your research seems accurate, but I would have to look further into your prepared files. I can do that if you want me to." Ros offers and validates me.
"No. Thank you, but no. As you said, when Christian Grey says no, he means no. I will get back to work on the merger you have allocated me. I am off to lunch with my mother at midday, but I won't be longer than an hour, and I will then get back to work." Ros nods and then exits my office.
I sit and look out my window for a few minutes. I know Dad rejected my suggestion because of our family issues, but there must me something more. Something is underlining his decision.
# # # #
"Phoebe, are you okay? We were supposed to meet at the cafe for lunch?" My mother asks at my door, looking worried. I look at my watch, and I can't believe that it is already past midday.
"I am so sorry Mom. I got lost in my work and I will be ready in a few minutes."
"Just like your father" I hear her say softly. "I will be right out outside. Take your time" My mother says to calm me down. I hate being late!
I send Ros an email telling her I am off to lunch and grab my bag, purse and cell phone. I exit my office and find my mother with my father. They are both looking at each other as if they have just fallen in love. It is the same look they always give each other. I find it so comforting, even now.
I regain my 'I will not be intimated by my father' composure as I wait several steps to the side.
"Mom, are you ready for lunch?" I inquire.
"Yes. Christian, I will see you at home tonight." My mother smiles at both of us, trying hard to keep the peace. My father whispers something into my mother ear, but my mother loses her smile and shakes her head. My father is clearly annoyed at whatever she has said no to, but kisses her one more time and returns to his office.
"Let's go Phoebe" My mother declares, and I follow her into the elevator.
"What did dad ask or say just then?" I probe. When we are alone in the elevator, my mother finally answers my question.
"Your dad asked if he could come and have lunch with us. I said no because I would like to have some mother and daughter girl time with you."
"I want that too." I reply. My mother and I both smile at each other, and then I offer her a hug. I have missed my mom, even if it has only been a short time.
# # # #
Three months later.
Phoebe's POV:
"I don't understand why we are not pushing forward with this merger. The figures are perfect, and we won't have any union, or government issues. The only thing that would have happened is countless jobs would be saved, and Grey Enterprise's profit levels would have increased." I am bewildered and poor Ros is stuck here listening to me.
"It is what it is. This is Grey Enterprises, not Phoebe Enterprises." Ros states, but I know that she too is a somewhat over my father's behavior, as my line manager. If she wasn't so close to retirement, I honestly think she would resign. My father has been constantly knocking back projects that I have had a significant role in, and especially those that are my idea.
"Well I need answers" I storm out of my office and burst into my fathers. He is sitting there with Taylor, having discussed something. Dad looks ever so in control behind his desk, looking at me.
"You should know that I do not take well to people storming into my office, even if they are my daughter." My father says without emotion. I walk towards his desk and place the newly rejected merger file on his desk, without saying a word. He eyes the file off but then looks at me as if it means nothing.
"Anything you need?" He asks
"Yes. The truth."
"Truth means honesty. Honesty is sometimes hard to take." My father warns.
"I have grown some tough skin these past four months though. Why did you reject this merger? It was ideal. Why are you rejecting everything that comes out of my office?" I inquire
"They are not up to the Grey Enterprise standard" My father replies.
"Now, you are the one not being honest or truthful. Why? This merger was water tight and would have been easy to execute. Even my plan that I presented three months ago to you, on the environmental manufacturing subsidiary was a valid option, but you didn't even seriously look at my proposal. You even rejected one of Ros's suggestions because I did a lot of the leg work on it. Is it because I am with Josh still? Is that it?" I demand to know and beseech him to give me an honest answer.
"Judgment" my father states simply.
"Huh?" I ask him to clarify not following what he means.
"I do not trust your judgement. When I don't trust the judgement of one of my employees, I won't give their suggestion any though or time." My father informs me. Shit, it's worse than I though.
"I stopped trusting you when you kept the secret of your relationship, when you adamantly decided to go through with this relationship and when you got yourself splashed over the tabloids. I do not trust your judgement so I can't accept work that you have done." My father gave me what wanted, truth. I take three steps back and feel the blood drain from my face.
The next thing I know is Taylor has his arms on my shoulders, and I feel light headed. "Phoebe, are you alright?" Taylor asks. I can just make out my father running over to me.
"Phoebe sit down" My father urges me.
"What is going? What happened?" I ask
"You went pale and almost blacked out. Taylor grabbed you and then you came around. Sit down now. Please!" My father requests.
"I am passable. I need to go. It is past five" I say and walk out, careful that I am walking straight. Dad was right honesty does hurt, and it almost knocked me out cold.
I arrive home, and place my jacket in the closet and throw work bag down and then kick it. "AARGGGHH" I scream out in frustration.
"Bad day?" Josh inquires. He is a sight for sore eyes as he approaches me.
"It has been a lousy month. However today was the worst ever! I genuinely don't want to talk about it now. Ask me about it tomorrow!" I reply. Josh wraps him arms around me and hold me close. He is comforting, and I get a strange feeling that something else is up.
"Let me fix you a drink." I thought I loved Josh as much as it was humanly possible but in these last few months of living with him. I realized I was wrong because, I love him more now and even more each day.
"Here you go. Your favorite drink. Gin and Tonic" He says.
"Thanks." Josh then puts his arm around me again, and I snuggle up close to him. "What should we do this weekend?"
"Anything you want. Except tomorrow at lunch." I scrunch up my face distastefully at Josh. "Hey! You know where you need to be tomorrow at midday. I spoke to your grandmother today, and. she told me that you have not gone to the last five family events." Josh scolds me slightly.
"Really... I didn't realize" I lie.
"Phoebe you promised me and your grandparents that you would remain active in their lives of your family. That you wouldn't stay away from your parents, Ted, your whole family. There is a lunch at your parent's house tomorrow. I want you to go" Josh informs me.
"I see my father and Ted enough at work. Plus no one except my grandparents ever invites you." Josh has become extremely close to my grandparents, and they have seen how happy we are together. I wish this was universal amongst my family. "I don't want to go if you are not going to be openly welcomed."
"Come one Phoebe, family is family. Eventually, they will come around. Some of your family members have already started to accept us together. It's your birthday in three weeks. Surely you are going to want them all over to celebrate it right?" I hadn't thought about that.
"Maybe, or we can spend it in bed. I rather enjoy doing that with you" I say playfully, and then commence to kiss him. Our playtime is then cut short when we hear one of our cell phones go off from the table. We don't know whose it is as stupidly we have the same ring tone.
"Drink your G&T, and I will check the cell phones." Josh offers. I can't help but stare at his shapely backside as he gets up. "It's my phone" he calls out and returns the call he has missed. Please don't let it be work! I finish my drink and start to relax. I still feel pain and exhaustion after my father's admission. I need to consider my next move. I must have fallen asleep as the next thing I remember is Josh waking me.
"Phoebe...Phoebe" he calls my name. His gorgeous face is the first thing I see, and it brings a smile to my face.
"Yeah. Sorry I feel asleep."
"I have to go out, something has come up," he says.
"Work?" I inquire
"Looks like it yeah," he says unconvincing. "You are exhausted. Get something to eat and then go to sleep. I will rush back to you." Josh gives me a kiss goodbye and is swift out the door.
# # # #
I wake up in our bed and reach over. I am shocked to find that Josh isn't in bed with me. I am startled and look at the clock. Shit its 10am, and I went to bed at 9pm. I tried to stay awake to wait for Josh, but I couldn't manage it. Wow! I have slept for over twelve hours. I then notice Josh sitting on the single seater couch of our room. His face is red. Oh my, he has been crying. However, Josh never cries. He is trying to put on a brave face.
"What's wrong?" I ask now sitting up on the bed.
"You are so beautiful! These last few months have been perfect, and I have never been happier." Sincerity pours out of Josh.
"You are acting a little strangely. Come to bed." I encourage him.
"I can't. I have to go. I am sorry Phoebe. I am leaving Seattle and returning to New York. I have to leave now. My flight leaves soon and my bags are already downstairs. I have booked a Taxi. I love you. Please know that I have loved you more than anyone else in the world" Josh says with a heavy heart.
"No, Josh you can't. You can't leave!" I plead shocked at the events being played in front of me.
"I have to. This is for you" Josh then places an A4 envelope on the bed.
"What is that?" I question.
"I signed over my half of this apartment to you. I have gifted it to you"
"I don't want it. I want you to stay" I plead.
"It is best if I leave." Josh quickly walks out of our room, through the apartment and to the elevator.
"Don't go! Talk to me!" I beg with tears streaming down my checks.
"I am sorry Phoebe." Josh repeats and then kiss's me one more time. Our lips linger on each others. This can't be the last time I get to kiss him. The elevator doors open and he gets in. I try to push my way in, but he blocks me.
"Phoebe you are in a night gown and not dressed for the streets of Seattle" He advises me, slightly playful
"I couldn't care less. Let me in." I demand.
"No. Go back in your apartment. Just go and find your happiness elsewhere. If you love me, then do not follow me or come to the airport." Josh begs me. I stop the elevator doors from closing.
"Answer me one thing. Why are you leaving?"
"Because it is best that I do" Josh admits.
"WHY?" I yell.
"Because I love you. I love you move than anyone. Your family loves you so much also. Spend time with them" Josh then tries to hide his tears, but I can't. I start to sob. Josh shakes his head and the elevator doors close. Just like that he is gone, with only one question in my mind. Why? Why now? What happened last night to cause him to leave?
I grab my cell phone and ring Joshua's sister. He always talks to her, and she will know the answers to my questions. If I know what has happening, then maybe I can fix this. She answers the phone and tells me everything. Sadly, it isn't much, but it is enough to help me make my next move.
Authors Note:
Hope you enjoyed this chapter, and we have hit a crossroads. very excited about what is to come next.. Really trying to update as much as possible while I am home on holidays. Sorry to the guest reviewer who said my story was predictable, but alas I can't keep everyone happy. Enjoy. Review if you want.