Fifty Shades What If

by Naiadverso

What if Kate conducted the interview, and Ana and Christian didn't meet until later? A lonely Ana Steele makes a new friend in Mia Grey while Kate is in Barbados. Mia decides that it's time for her friend to meet her family, and romance ensues when Christian and Ana fall head-over-heels for one another. This is a reworking of the story, a "what-if" re-write of their love.

3. Chapter 2: A Grey Family Dinner

Chapter 2: Grey Family Dinner

Christian and Ana Meet: June 4, 2011

Ana

Here I am sitting in my new alien apartment, alone and homesick for the small familiar dwelling Kate and I moved out of last week. Over the past six days I've spent most of my time unpacking all of our moving boxes, including those designated 'Kate's Room.' All of her clothing and most of her personal possessions have been put away in the same spots they had been at our old place. I think Kate will be pleased that she won't have to unpack when she gets home from her family vacation next week.

When I haven't been in the apartment, I've been with Mia exploring Seattle with her expert guidance. Since we hit it off at the deli on Monday, we've done something together every day besides Thursday and Friday. Usually we grab a bite to eat, then she takes me to some local hot spot that only a Seattle native would know of. We've had a great time together so far, and I really enjoy her company.

We've bonded over the shared experience of inappropriate friends and good food. Lily has been calling Mia nonstop for days so that the two could reconcile in time for some event next Saturday night. However, Mia doesn't feel like talking to her just yet, and she insists that Lily will never be around either one of her brothers ever again, both of whom share an intense dislike of the girl anyway. I, on the other hand, have made up with José since his unwarranted kiss on my resolutely shut lips in a bar parking lot two weeks ago. It's just sort of awkward and frosty between us right now, but I'm optimistic that our friendship can make a full recovery.

While I think Mia and I could be great friends, I can't help but think that our shared loneliness has forced us together and she won't want me around after making up with Lily. Kate would tell me to "see myself more clearly," but that's hard to do with my subconscious egging on my worst thoughts. Unlike myself, Kate thinks everyone should, and does, want to be friends with me. Ana Steele, ever the pessimist.

I flick through the channels on the television that is still sitting on the floor of our living room, begging to be hung on the wall. I don't have the strength or the know-how to do that despite having worked at Clayton's for four years, so I'll let it sit here for Ethan to take care of when the Kavanagh family comes back from Barbados. I can't find anything to watch. Even the channels are different here, I think with a frown on my face and with a sigh escaping from my lips.

With a flick of my finger, I turn the television off and snuggle into a ball with the hope of falling asleep for a little while. Just as I'm getting to that place between sleep and awake, I hear my phone go off in the kitchen. I hop up and make a mad dash to the counter.

"Hello," I say a bit too eagerly.

"Hey Ana! It's Mia." I smile at the excited tone ever present in Mia's voice. "I was wondering what you're doing for dinner tonight."

"Well, I was going to make a stir-fry or order some Chinese, but I would much rather get out of my apartment." I wonder where she'll be taking me tonight. Mia has wonderful taste, and the food has been exquisite in every restaurant she has taken me to so far.

"Oh good!" Mia squeals. "My family is getting together for a 'welcome home Mia' dinner at my parents' house tonight, and I wanted to invite you over too. We're going to have hor d'oeuvres and wine and dinner and probably something for dessert! It's going to be wonderful and I really hope you'll come!"

"As long as I'm not intruding…" I begin, but I'm quickly interrupted by Mia's cheerfulness.

"You. Are. Ridiculous." Mia has already picked up on my lack of self-esteem. She and Kate are going to get along wonderfully. "Be here at six and wear a dress or skirt or something like that, but don't get too dressy." Like that will be a problem. Mia gives me the address and some directions from my apartment. When we hang up, I'm in a much better mood than I was prior to the call.

I have to be at Mia's house in a couple of hours, so I take my time getting ready and since I'm actually in a good mood, I decide to go full out: shaving my legs and under my arms, plucking my eyebrows, and blow-drying my hair. When I'm fully primped, I make my way to Kate's closet and pick out a cute tunic dress with a drop waist, pleated front, and full skirt. It's a pretty bluish color with printed pink, purple, blue, and white flowers over the whole of it. I think it's a bit short, so I wear white leather ballet flats instead of heels. I can't help but think that Kate would be unimpressed with the choice of footwear, but she isn't here to stop me so I won't dwell. My makeup, however, is minimal; I always feel like a clown when I put a lot on.

Leaving myself a half hour to get to Mia's house in Bellevue, I wrap myself in a light jacket and hop into Wanda with a prayer to the car gods that my little bug will get me there without a hitch. My light blue VW Beetle has been an amazing car for me, but I can't help getting a little nervous about her making it with me behind the wheel in a new city. I just don't want to be later than I said I would. Nobody likes someone who's late, and I'm still trying to impress my new friend.

I turn onto the street this house is supposed to be on, and my mouth drops open. Every house is, well, a palace. I find the number that matches what I have written down, and I turn right into the driveway of a breathtaking colonial-style mansion. It is beautiful, even down to the roses around the front door. Just picture-book perfect. I'm not sure where to park, so I pull in front of the garage and decide to ask Mia if I should move Wanda.

I step out of the car, and notice there are CCTV cameras located in a few places along the house. Mia's family must be a big deal. I don't even know her last name. I take a few hesitant steps toward the front door, and before I'm even half way there, Mia is in the doorway looking excited and happy to see me.

"Anaaaa!" Mia dramatically carries out the second vowel in my name as she gathers me in a warm, tight hug and practically drags me into the house. "Come in. I hope you found it okay. I'm not really that great with directions!" I've noticed that Mia often disparages her skills, even if they are exceptional. This is just another thing we have in common.

"I found it just fine," I say looking around the foyer of the house as Mia takes my jacket and hangs it up. I notice it's all dark wood floors and antique rugs with a sweeping staircase to the second floor. On a wall to the right of me is a beautifully carved wooden sign that says 'The Greys,' and there are tons of family pictures underneath it. I don't take a close look, figuring that I might get a chance later. I smile at her and ask, "What are we making?"

"Well most of it is prepped and ready to cook, but we do have to prepare the wellingtons. My mom is in the kitchen. Come with me and I'll introduce you before we get started." Mia takes my hand and pulls me through the house to the kitchen where two women are hard at work. One of the women turns around, takes off her white apron, and meets Mia and I just inside the kitchen door.

"Ana, this is my mom, Grace." Mia's mother looks elegantly sophisticated in a powder blue, silk dress and cream sweater. Her hair is pulled back in a twist and she has amazing diamond earrings in her ears.

"Mrs. Grey," I smile, suddenly feeling nervous to meet Mia's family. "It is so nice to meet you. Mia has told me a lot about you. Your home is beyond beautiful."

"Likewise, Ana." She gives me a warm smile, and comes in for gentle hug. "Mia says you just moved to Seattle? I know it must be quite hard to be in a new place, especially when you don't know many people. We're very glad you could join us tonight. And, please call me Grace."

With that, Grace's cell phone rings and looking at it she rolls her eyes while she says, "Excuse me. This would be the hospital calling."

Mia looks at me and rolls her eyes. "You're going to think my family is crazy. My mom is always getting calls from the hospital. My dad will get up to answer calls from the office a few times while everyone is here. Elliot, my oldest brother, is just literally crazy." Mia stops and laughs at the mention of her brother, then continues, "And with my other brother, Christian, you just never know what's going on with him. He'll probably answer his phone more than anyone else will and he's usually pretty moody, so don't worry if he seems aloof and weird. He just kinda is."

"I doubt your family is crazier than any other family," I snort. "Just wait until you meet my mother." We both start laughing, and we spend the next half hour talking and finishing up the prep work for dinner. Mia briefly introduces me to Gretchen, the Grey family's housekeeper. She's a pretty young woman with blonde pigtails and dressed in a knee-length black skirt and white button-up blouse. Incidentally, she will be finishing up the meal so we can socialize a bit before eating.

At 6:30, a tall, blond, and handsome older man with kind blue eyes arrives in the kitchen carrying a black, important-looking briefcase. He walks over to Mia, kisses her forehead, and says, "Hello sweetheart." Before Mia can introduce me, her father smiles and holds his hand out as he says, "You must be Ana. I'm Carrick, Mia's father. It is so nice to put a face with the name we've all been hearing so much of these past few days."

Now that Mia's parents are both here and the hors d'oeuvres are in the oven, the four of us make our way to the living room. Mia hasn't left my side since I got here, and for that I am grateful. The house is extravagant, yet homey, and I love it. The living room is spacious, tastefully furnished in creams, browns, and pale blues-cozy, understated, and very stylish. Just as we're settling into the comfortable furniture, the front door opens and a tall, handsome man with curly blond hair, wide shoulders, light colored eyes, and an enormous smile comes barreling into the room.

"Elliot!" Mia all but screams as she jumps up to hug him. Elliot lifts her off of her feet and twirls her around through the air. Grace, Carrick, and I all stand up in greeting.

"Minnie, I just love seeing you here." Mia raises her eyebrows in his direction. "I know, I know, I just saw you yesterday! But still..." He beams at her then hugs each of his parents. When he gets to me I expect a handshake, but instead his strong arms pull me into a tight, body-enveloping hug and says, "You must be Ana. I'm Elliot, Mia's favorite brother."

I give him a huge smile because his exuberance is infectious. "It's great to meet you too." We all take our seats again. I'm on the love seat, Mia is sitting on the couch with Elliot, who's stretched out over the rest of it, and Grace and Carrick have each taken one of the overstuffed chairs on either side of the couch.

Just sitting here makes me wish that I had grown up with a more stable family. Not to say that Ray wasn't stable because he was, but there's something to be said for a family with two loving parents in the same home with siblings. I can actually feel the love they have for one another by just sitting in the same room as them. It's so different than what I'm used to at my family gatherings. Usually it's just me and Ray, and sometimes we include the Rodriguez men as well. When I'm with my mom, it's just me and her and Bob. I love the scene I'm in right now, and I can't stop smiling at their easy and cheerful banter as they each give short anecdotes about their weeks.

I excuse myself to use the restroom, and Mia gets up to show me where I'm going and to check on the hor d'oeuvres. This house has so many doors. I'm used to doors for my bedroom, Kate's bedroom, our closets, and the bathroom, so I definitely needed more guidance than "third one on the left." Mia leads me back toward the kitchen, and shows me the bathroom.

"It's right through here." Mia opens the door for me, but she stops by the entrance and continues talking. "So, I told my mom that Lily is no longer going to the Coping Together Ball next weekend, and we were wondering if you would like to go instead? The food and ticket are paid for, so it would just be a night of free food, booze, music, and ME!"

"I would love to, but I've never been to something like that," I concede, unsure of what to say next.

Before I have a chance to continue, we're interrupted by the sound of another car coming up the drive. The smile on Mia's face grows and she hops once before turning around, hugging me, and walking hurriedly to the door.

I guess I could go to this Coping Together thing. I'll have to ask Mia what to wear, and raid Kate's closet some more, but I'm sure my dear roommate would insist I do it if she were here. Anxious to meet another member of Mia's family, I make my bathroom visit extra fast. I stop only to admire the luxuriously soft towel I use to wipe my hands, and I tidy myself up in the expertly lighted vanity mirror. Before exiting, I can hear Mia's voice and an oddly familiar male tone that must belong to her other brother in the hallway. They're saying something about putting the wine he brought in the kitchen to be served with dinner.

When I push open the bathroom door, I stumble through, tripping over my own two feet and falling face-first into the hallway. I hear some shuffling behind me and I'm glad that my dress is still covering my bottom half, keeping my modesty intact. I am on my hands and knees in the Grey's hallway, and gentle hands are around my waist, helping me to stand. I am so embarrassed, damn my clumsiness.

"Are you okay?" asks a deep, masculine voice clouded with concern.

On my feet, I straighten my dress and reply, "Um...yeah I'm fine. Two left feet or something like that." My hair is in my eyes covering my face, so I push it behind my ears. I have to steel myself to glance up at the man who just helped me to my feet. When our eyes lock, I'm sure my face doesn't hide my shock. I'm looking into the bright gray eyes of one Christian Grey. Why didn't I put this together? Mia Grey. Christian Grey.

He's tall, dressed in gray tweed trousers and a white shirt with unruly dark copper-tinted hair. He is attractive, very attractive, and despite his clothing I can tell that his body is lined with muscle. My cheeks feel warm, and I know my skin is betraying me as it quickly turns a dark shade of pink.

He looks at me incredulous at first, then his expression twists into an amused yet warm smile. One of his hands lingers on my waist from where he had helped pull me up, but he quickly withdraws it when Mia exits the kitchen and starts toward us. The air between us feels thick, and I find it difficult to tear my eyes from his to look at my now approaching friend.

Mia pauses and looks at us questioningly, but quickly regains her composure. "Christian! This is my friend Ana. Ana, this is my brother Christian. But, it appears you've already introduced yourselves," she says jokingly and with a small giggle. Out of habit our right hands clasp in a firm shake, and just like at the commencement ceremony, I feel a jolt of electricity ring through my body beginning at the juncture of our joined hands. I withdraw mine quickly, blushing yet again and avoiding his steady gray gaze.

"I tripped coming out of the bathroom and Christian helped me up," I say to Mia in hopes of explaining the situation she walked in on. She just smiles and shakes her head back and forth, as if to say yeah right. Giving Christian and I a curious look, Mia grabs both of our hands and drags us into the living room back to the rest of the family.

When we enter the room, everyone stands. I expected the same warm welcome that was given Elliot, and I'm a little shocked at the formality of Christian and the rest of the family's 'hellos' to one another. Christian gives his mother a swift kiss on the cheek as she plants one hand on his shoulder, and he shakes hands with Carrick and Elliot. There is none of the sweeping hugs and exuberant displays of affection that transpired between the family just twenty minutes ago. I shake my head slightly, to rid myself of the observation and plaster a small smile on my lips. Through the whole process of greeting one another, I couldn't take my eyes off of the handsome man who just moments ago witnessed my ridiculous display of clumsiness.

When Gretchen comes in the room to set out a tray of crackers, fruits, and cheeses on the coffee table, everyone scrambles back to their seats. Before I have a chance to choose a different spot, Mia takes her place on the couch next to Elliot and their parents resume their positions on the overstuffed chairs, leaving Christian and I to share the love seat. We sit down and I cuddle up in the corner, leaving as much space between the two of us as possible. He appears relaxed and calm next to my rigid, uncomfortable form. What is wrong with me?

I have never been this affected by someone in my life. Christian Grey wields some strange magic over my nervous system. Just his presence has ignited something within me that I didn't even know existed until now. This is going to be a long night.

Christian

Don't get me wrong, I love my family. But, sometimes I really dread these dinners at my parents' house. It would be one thing if it were just my family and I, but it won't just be us tonight. Mia has invited her 'amazing' new friend over, and if she's anything like Elliot and I are expecting, it's going to be a long night.

Plus, I have a house guest this weekend. Molly and I had a great time last night, and earlier today, despite my thoughts frequently taking a turn toward the brunette from WSU. I have some rather compelling ideas for tonight. Molly won't be able to sit for a week after what I have planned. My lips twitch at the thought.

Mia tends to attract all sorts of stray people. She's incredibly too trusting, and often her new 'friends' are people who have recognized our last name as a moniker for success, money, and social connections. Usually my sister brings that little social-climbing Lily around without realizing that the girl's express purpose is to moon over Elliot and I, envy my family's position in Seattle, and take advantage of Mia's too-generous personality. Elliot can usually put these things aside and play nice, but I can't, so the night usually ends with Mia pleading with me to be nicer or my mother chastising me for being impolite.

Earlier today my sister actually called me to give me a 'be nice' warning. "Christian, just please, please, pleeease be nice to Ana. She's really sweet and a little bit shy and Ana's new to Seattle, so she has no idea who I am. I haven't even told her that you're my brother or that my last name is Grey, even though I don't think she would care either way…" Mia talked and talked and talked without coming up for air until I finally interrupted her.

"What? Are you ashamed of me Mia?" My little sister knows I'm just kidding, but deep down I'm not so sure I am. Unlike the rest of my perfect family, I have a dark side and I know they would all be ashamed of me if they found out about it. They all know I'm disturbed in some way, but they definitely don't know the true depths of my depravity. If I continue to have it my way, as I always do, they never will find out.

Mia giggled and reassured me, "No, of course I'm not ashamed of you! Don't be silly Christian. I know you think all of my friends just want to be around me to get a piece of the Grey family pie, but I think you'll find Ana's different. I didn't mention you because I know you would prefer I make friends who aren't interested in using me to climb the social ladder of Seattle." She says 'climb the social ladder of Seattle' in a deep, joking voice with the intention of mocking the warnings I've given her multiple times. My sister is the only person I will allow to get away with something like that.

I've just left Flynn's office, paying an extra fee for a Saturday appointment, and Taylor is now making his way through traffic to my parents' house on the sound. The appointment with the good Doctor has lightened my mood somewhat, and I finally had the chance to speak with him about that damned woman from the WSU graduation. I still cannot get the image of her out of my mind, and it's seriously beginning to piss me off. Her porcelain skin, the way her cheeks flushed perfect pink at the cheering in the crowd, the lip biting. Yes. The fucking lip biting gets me every time.

Flynn didn't really say anything useful, just his usual, "Why do you think this young woman is on your mind? Why do you think this is frustrating to you?" It's fucking frustrating because I don't even know her fucking name, I've never spoken with her, and above all I don't dwell on anything, especially women I don't know. Oh, and she's ruining my weekends because I can't stop thinking of her when I fuck my sub. Eventually Flynn got frustrated with me because I never actually said that. I just grunted or stared at him when he asked me these questions, or I ignored them and tried to talk about something else. I don't even know why I went to the appointment; nothing on the subject was resolved, and even now I find my mind wandering back to that blue-eyed woman.

My Blackberry buzzes and I take it out of my pocket seeing I have a new message from Elliot: So far so good. Not like the Lily-monster. Well this is good news. Maybe this Ana isn't as insufferable as we'd anticipated. However, I still have my reservations; Elliot's opinion of others is usually much more forgiving than mine, especially when it comes to women. From what I understand, my big brother doesn't put much thought into who he brings home on the weekends.

We finally arrive at Grey manor at five minutes to seven. Blocking a stall of the garage is a light blue VW Beetle that doesn't even look roadworthy. I scoff at the sight of it, but Taylor says, "Hmm. A classic, and I bet it's worth some money."

I scowl at him in the mirror and remark, "It's either Mia's friend's or my dad has lost his fucking mind." Grabbing the box of red wine bottles I was instructed to bring for the dinner, I make my way to the front door, nodding at Taylor on my way. I don't need to tell him what to do. He already knows: Taylor will take off for a while and show up in a couple hours to take me back to Escala.

Mia meets me at the door, and I give her as big a hug as I can manage while carrying a case of wine. She's the only person I've ever allowed to give me a full hug, but in comparison to the ones she gives other people, they don't last long.

"You made it! Elliot's already in the living room with mom and dad." I'm not surprised I'm the last one here. In fact, I prefer it that way. Usually I show up last and leave first. As long as I stay for dinner, my family is usually appeased and I can continue on with my life in quiet privacy.

"Of course I made it Mia." I roll my eyes at her. "I said I would be here, and do I ever break my promises to you?" As we chat, Mia and I make our way back to the kitchen to drop off the wine to Gretchen.

"Well, no you don't. But you did reschedule on me last weekend." She frowns, and I feel a little bad for ditching her and the rest of our family to spend time in the playroom. Fuck. "I'm just happy you're here. Let's get this wine to Gretchen." Mia smiles, and I can't help but reciprocate. I've spoken to her or seen her every day she's been back from France, so I don't know why she's so excited to see me.

"Yeah, me too. I really did miss you while you were away Mia," I say while placing the wine on the counter.

With that, I turn and trudge toward the hallway. Making my way to the living room, I can hear Elliot animatedly telling my parents about something that happened on a disastrous date earlier in the week. They're all laughing, and I turn my eyes to the floor knowing that this is the kind of conversation I would never be able to have with my parents. I bound her hands behind her back with a cable tie, fucked her mouth, and then beat her ass with my favorite cane until her skin was covered with angry red welts. It was a blast. Yup, really funny.

Lost in my thoughts, I don't notice the bathroom door opening until I see a blur of long chestnut hair and pale limbs landing in the middle of the hallway. I roll my eyes, but I manage to suppress my usual annoyance for such clumsiness by picking up my speed to help her up. Christian Grey, always the gentleman, I think and silently chuckle at the ridiculous thought. At least I can make myself laugh.

In the five seconds it takes me to make my way to her, I notice that her dress has climbed up her thighs just a bit, revealing creamy, flawless pale, but fair, skin and a slim body. When I reach her, she's on her hands and knees with silky locks of hair masking her features. I reach out and grab her hips, helping her to her feet.

"Are you alright?" I ask with feigned concern, remembering that Mia begged me to be nice to her friend. She straightens her dress in an attempt to protect her modesty before replying.

"Um...yeah I'm fine. Two left feet or something like that." She sounds flustered, embarrassed.

She runs her fingers through the hair still hanging over her face, placing it behind her ears as she raises her chin, matching her eyes up to mine. I'm met with a familiar bright-blue gaze that takes my breath away once again. These eyes are the same that have been haunting my thoughts for days, and upon close inspection they're even more extraordinary than I remembered: immense, clear, powder-blue, with the apparent ability to see right through my carefully crafted mask. Her stare makes me feel exposed, and I'm sure the shock I feel registers in my features because she has the same expression on her small, sweet face. Her cheeks are flushed a pale-rose pink, and momentarily my thoughts drift to the other parts of her body that are possibly the same arousing shade. Fuck me! What are you thinking, Grey? This girl is far too young for what you would want to do with her. She's your little sister's friend.

Somehow I get my stunned expression under control, and my face involuntarily twists into a smile. One of my hands lingers at her waist, and I can't seem to take my hands or eyes off of her. I want to say something, but I can't quite connect my mind with my mouth. I hear footsteps make their way into the hallway from the kitchen, and quickly make the effort to remove my hand from the trim abdomen it had been resting on for far too long. Reluctantly, I turn my eyes toward Mia's questioning stare and attempt to put a little distance between my sister's friend and myself.

Mia looks a bit shocked, but she quickly regains her composure to illicit a formal introduction between her friend and I. "Christian! This is my friend Ana. Ana, this is my brother Christian," she says a little too cheerfully. Then, narrowing her eyes ever so slightly and giving the two of us a tiny smile, Mia continues with a hint of mirth, "But, it appears you've already introduced yourselves."

As if in reflex, our right hands clasp in a firm shake. Her hand is small, and fits perfectly into my outstretched palm. Her skin is soft and warm to the touch, and just like before, I feel that same electric current with the meeting of our skin. She removes her hand far too quickly for my liking, but the buzz I felt continues to rage through my body a moment longer.

"I tripped coming out of the bathroom and...Christian helped me up," Ana says a little too quickly, and she slightly pauses before my name to take a quick breath, as if she's unsure whether or not to call me by my first name. Her tone is soft, with a musical lilt to it. I can't help but wish she would keep talking so that I could hear that sweet sound again. My mind wanders to what her bewitching voice would sound like screaming out my name as I fuck her into oblivion. What the fuck? Why does she affect me this way? Grey...stop this, now.

Thankfully, Mia seems to have found the sense I've lost. Smiling and shaking her head slightly, she rushes forward, taking my left hand and Ana's right and marches us toward the living room, in the direction of the rest of our family. I can't help but steal one more nonsensical glance at Ana before we make our way into the watchful presence of my whole family. Her face is tilted downward toward the floor, and it appears she's watching her feet as she's being dragged along by my sister.

My parents and Elliot all stand the moment we enter living room to offer me their usual greetings. I give my mom a kiss on the cheek and she places a gentle hand on my shoulder, carefully respecting my boundaries. My father gives me a two-handed handshake, as if he were hugging that part of my body. Elliot and I shake hands as well, but as usual we squeeze as tightly as we can, contorting one another's fingers and hands until my big brother's grip slacks in mine, as if to say 'uncle.' We both laugh at the familiar greeting. Turning around quickly, I notice Ana looking quizzically at the bunch of us before planting a half-smile on her beautiful face.

Everyone resumes the position they held before I arrived: my parents in chairs and my siblings sprawled on the couch. I notice Ana looking around the room like she just lost a game of musical chairs, then she takes a spot and nestles into the arm of the love seat. Her ankles cross demurely to cover the gap in her thighs that her dress threatens to expose. What I would give to be going head first between those perfect…am I getting hard?!

She looks nervous, and I notice her right foot idly tapping on the leg of the small couch as I take the seat next to her as nonchalantly as possible. I will myself to look relaxed in her presence, but I can't help wondering if all of her skin is as flawless as her face and legs. Then I realize that Mia is staring at me with a curious look on her face. Shit, she knows something's up. I try to tense up a bit, realizing that in my attempt to look comfortable, I look too relaxed. I never relax.

The space between us feels charged with that now familiar magnetic receptivity. My family members exchange a few short stories about the goings-on in their lives over the past week, but I can't quite pay attention to their stories long enough to offer any real feedback since I'm distracted by the bewitching creature to my left. So, I laugh and smile along to the best of my ability, but only use half my mind in doing so.

"So, Ana. My daughter told me you recently graduated from college," my father declares. With the conversation steered in Ana's direction, my attention piques.

"Yes, I did," Ana replies with an endearing tone of pride and a slight blush. "Um...actually your son here," she gestures toward me without looking in my direction, "conferred the degrees and gave a rather rousing speech at the ceremony." She looks embarrassed as she takes a breath before turning her mesmerizing blue orbs in my direction. "Not that you would remember me. I had no idea that Mia was your sister. I don't think...we even discussed where I went to school." Her eyes turn to Mia.

I give her a genial smile, and her bumbling has me convinced she really hadn't put it together. Before I have a chance to think I say, "Actually, I do remember you." Everyone looks at me, and as if it explains remembering one person out of four-hundred, I quickly add, "You were speaking with the Kavanaghs after the ceremony." Ana's front teeth grasp her bottom lip in a tight hold, and my breath hitches. That's the mouth I've been dreaming about. Why is that so fucking arousing?

Releasing her soft, full lip she smiles at me and concedes, "Kate Kavanagh has been my roommate since freshman year, and her brother might be living with us here as well. We just moved to Seattle last week." Great, Katherine Kavanagh is her roommate. Ana probably already hates me after the way I treated her friend during that fucking interview. I'm such a shit. She'll never want to see me...

"Where about did you move?" Elliot interjects, and I take a second to regain my composure.

"Pike Market district. Kate's father bought the apartment for her and Ethan. They're letting me live there pretty cheaply." The heart I didn't realize I had jumps into my throat, when I realize she must live close to Escala. It's a strange feeling, one I don't think I've ever felt before. Butterflies?

She can live there cheaply. She must not come from money, or have any family around to look after her. I could look after you. Shit, where the fuck did that come from? Just last week I was considering sacking Molly, why not consider this girl as a replacement? Because she's not in the lifestyle. Because she's too young. Above all, she's your sister's friend. Right.

"It's actually pretty close to your place Christian," Mia interjects in her sweetest voice, using her skill of mind-reading to express my excited thought. I give her a tight smile. I know what you're doing Mia.

"You should have brought your roommate with you, Ana." My mother is always so sweet to anyone we bring around. Well, I don't bring anyone around other than Taylor, but I assume she would be if I were to ever bring somebody home. Mom this is my submissive. Elena, your friend I fucked from the age 15 until I was 21, introduced us. Let me take the ballgag out of her mouth so she can say hello. Her interests? Butt plugs, genital clamps, fisting, the usual really. That would go over so well.

"Actually, she and her family are on vacation until next week," Ana frowns. "I had job interviews on Monday, otherwise I would have flown to Georgia to visit my mother and her husband."

"Oh! Did you hear from them? Weren't you supposed to hear before the end of the week?" Mia's excitement is thick in her question.

Ana beams, and I quickly look away for fear that someone in my family will notice me gaping at how lovely her features are when she smiles. "Actually, yes I did. I am officially Anastasia Steele, Assistant to Jack Hyde, Editor at Seattle Independent Publishing. I was offered another position at a larger publishing house, but SIP was where I really wanted to be." Anastasia. Anastasia. Anastasia. A beautiful name for a beautiful girl. I'm losing my mind tonight. "I start on Monday."

"Oh. My. God." Mia enunciates as she jumps off the couch and throws herself at Ana. "I am so happy for you! You are brilliant!" We all offer our congratulations, and I'm completely taken aback that this girl is not only incredibly attractive, but also intelligent.

My father gets out of his seat, excusing himself for a moment, and when he comes back a bottle of Prosecco and six glasses are in his hands. "Prosecco? To celebrate Ana's new position, and Mia's return from France. But mostly because I desperately need a drink." Everyone laughs a bit, as dad hands out glasses to each of us.

Ana hesitates to take hers and says, "While I appreciate the offer, I do have to drive myself home. I probably shouldn't."

She bites her lip, leaving me short of breath again, and before I realize what I'm doing I take two of the proffered glasses from my father and make Ana an offer. "My head of security is coming to get me after dinner. I could give you a ride home." Did I really just say that? Control, Grey!

Mia and my mother shoot one another a surprised glance, a look of complete shock. Elliot's mouth is literally open, and my father stops opening the bottle of Prosecco to look at me. Yes family, I'm being nice. After a moment everyone's expression goes back to normal and my dad begins pouring the champagne. It's like they've never seen me converse with anyone before. They probably haven't seen you have a nice conversation with a woman before. True. I usually ignore everyone, unless we're talking business.

Her downcast eyes shoot up and momentarily catch my steady gaze with a curious look, then they fall to look at her toes. "Oh, I don't want to be a pain. It's really fi…"

I interrupt her polite decline of my offer, bending over slightly to catch her attention. Looking her square in the eyes I say, "No, I insist. We've already established your apartment is near my place, and you should have the opportunity to celebrate your accomplishment. You've only just graduated a week ago, and from what I can tell by your excitement, this is a job you're really interested in." I take a deep breath when I notice her cheeks pinking up and her eyes somehow becoming more blue, but I keep her gaze. "Congratulations, Anastasia." I hand her the glass of freshly poured Prosecco, our fingers gently brushing against each other and sending out a shock wave through my body.

With the small amount of time we've had during this brief exchange, our bodies have inadvertently turned toward one another, and my eyes take the opportunity to follow the flow of her petite body, appreciating every gentle curve. Her breasts are remarkable, pert and full, the perfect size when put in context with the rest of her body. Her neck is long and dainty, and meets with the most perfectly formed clavicle. I have to stop myself from lunging across the couch and devouring her in front of my family. That would put their gay suspicions to rest. My hands make their way to my hair, grasping tightly and pulling in an effort to draw my attention away from Ana and relieve some of the stress my body has suddenly come under.

The rest of my family voices their congratulations in unison, and despite her smile, Ana looks embarrassed at all the fuss being made about her. I get the idea that she isn't used to such a gregarious bunch as the Grey family, but overall I think she appreciates the excessive enthusiasm.

Fifteen minutes later we're all rounding on our second glass of Prosecco as Mia entertains us with lively tales of her time spent in Europe in an attempt to forestall answering our father's question regarding her plans for work now that she has returned home. It would appear that her vivacious American personality was not endearing to the Parisians, especially to her "domineering tyrant" of a boss Monsieur Floubert, and considering the deflection of the question, I assume Mia has no real ideas for a job in the immediate future. It's hard to believe Mia is the same age I was when I started GEH, and I briefly remind myself not to compare my single-minded tenacity for my business with Mia's scattered exuberance for all things comestible.

Throughout the conversation I sneak furtive glances at Ana's now semi-relaxed figure next to me, and I notice that she has a faint smattering of freckles across her nose and the tiniest, fake pearl earrings in her small lobes. If she were mine, she would be covered in Mikimoto quality pearls. Every so often she fingers her hair and I catch a breath of her flowery, intoxicating scent. I can't seem to control my thoughts with her so close.

"Ana, have you ever been to Paris?" Mia asks.

"No, I haven't. Someday I hope to visit Europe." Ana smiles wistfully while she says this, and I feel a stab of tenderness toward her once again. My family grew up taking trips all over the world. By the time I was off to Harvard, I had been to several European and Asian countries. For some reason, her admission makes me think about the places I would like to take her. France, Spain, my bedroom...errr, playroom. Bedroom? What?

When Mia flees to check on the ETA for dinner in another successful attempt of avoiding our father's line of questioning and my mother begins scolding Elliot over his most recent breakup, I take the chance to turn my attention to Ana. I don't usually do small talk, but in this case I can certainly try it out. "So Anastasia…" I like the way that rolls off of my tongue.

Much to my displeasure, she interrupts me. "Ana, please." Her voice wavers just slightly and her cheeks pink a bit when her eyes meet mine to correct my mistake. She is definitely affected by me. I'd really like to teach her a lesson about interrupting me.

"Ana," I say softly. For the first time tonight, Ana's eyes hold my stare for more than a second, and I get lost in them. Before I can collect my wits and continue the incumbent conversation, my sister interrupts to tell us to go to dinner, and probably saves me from making a fool of myself. We'll have plenty of time to talk on our drive home.

"We can make our way to the dining room now." Mia says this in her best French accent, and makes a sweeping motion with her arms in direction of the door. We all stand to move toward the dining room, but Elliot holds me back.

"She's fucking hot, right?" my brother whispers and subtly directs his eyebrows in Ana's direction as she follows Mia out of the room.

Elliot and I don't discuss women, so with this admission I'm positive that he and Mia, maybe our parents as well, noticed the attention I've been paying Ana since I arrived. Usually, I'm completely indifferent to everyone around me, especially the women. After years of desperate women shamelessly throwing themselves at me because of my face or my money, I tend to just ignore all females who aren't my family, an employee, or under a contract. Our parents have always thought I'm gay, but I had an idea that Elliot knew the truth. Well, knew the truth in that I'm not gay, not that I'm a Dom who likes whipping little brunette women.

I don't say anything as I look between Elliot's shit-eating grin and Ana's perfect, round ass as she exits the room with my parents, oblivious to my lingering gaze. Running a hand through my hair, I let a small whistle exit my mouth before I quickly reply, "Yeah, I guess so." I contemplated not saying anything, but knowing Elliot he would go after her. Without meeting Elliot's suspicious eyes, I take off in the direction of the dining room, my hand still fisting in my hair. Elliot chuckles softly at my discomfort as he follows behind me.

When we're all in the dining room, everyone in the family takes his/her usual spot at the table: my parents at either end, Elliot and I next to one another, and Mia across from Elliot. Ana takes the seat next to my sister and across from me, affording me the opportunity to steal glances her way throughout the meal.

The first course of scallops and chorizo is delicious, and the conversation flows continuously with my sister dominating it with stories of her time abroad. I stay quiet, as usual, only laughing and chiming in when absolutely necessary. When my mother's phone rings and she announces she needs to take it in the other room, my father and siblings begin discussing something regarding a lunch the three of them had earlier in the week.

With each of us sneaking a peek across the table, Ana and my eyes lock. I clear my throat and start the conversation I had intended to begin earlier this evening in the living room. "You said you're from Georgia?"

"Um...no." She looks toward the ceiling momentarily before continuing, and I think I can actually see her gears working over how much she should tell me. "My mom lives in Georgia with her newest husband, Bob. But, I've almost always lived in Montesano with my dad."

"You and your dad are close then?" I'm interested. I couldn't imagine my sister choosing to live away from our mother for an extended period of time. The two of them haven't always seen eye to eye, but I know Mia would have been lost without Grace during her teenage years.

"Well, he's my step dad actually. My father died shortly after I was born, and Ray practically raised me single-handed. We're very close. My mom is…" Ana pauses, taking a deep breath and looking around the room in search of her words before continuing. When she meets my gaze again, her eyes look a little sad, wistful even. "My mom is somewhat hare-brained, and rather unlucky in love." She smirks, then adds, "She is on husband number four for the time being. I haven't seen her in quite a while actually."

"You miss her though." I say this matter-of-factly.

"Of course I do," she says softly with a sweet smile lighting up her features.

Before I can pump her for more personal information, my mother and Gretchen come into the room with plates full of our main course. My mother serves Ana and Mia first, then comes around the table to pour each of us a glass of the wine I brought over. Gretchen serves my father and Elliot, and comes to me last. She sets my plate in front of me accidentally brushing my shoulder as she pulls away. I pretend not to notice her lingering over me, and eye fucking me on her way out, but it's pretty obvious. Fuck that's annoying.

I look across the table and Ana's blue eyes are following Gretchen out the door, a small scowl on her face. When her gaze turns back toward me, I give her my biggest smile, the 'panty-dropper' according to Ros. She blushes and turns her eyes down toward the food just placed in front of her.

Before any of the rest of us have had a chance to even think about cutting into our meals, Elliot's mouth is already full and his eyes close as he makes an exaggerated, "Mmmmm." We all laugh, utensils in hand, as we start our meals.

"Mia, this is amazing!" Elliot proclaims after he's finished swallowing his mouthful and immediately shovels another forkful through his lips. The rest of us can't help but laugh a little more at him.

"Thank you Elliot, but I can't take all of the credit for this course. Ana came over before everyone else and helped me with the wellingtons. And Gretchen actually cooked everything." Everyone turns to look at Ana. Beautiful, smart, and she can cook. She's fucking perfect. I'm more impressed by the minute.

"That was very sweet of you to come over early and help," my father says in appreciation of Ana's effort to assist Mia in the preparation of our dinner. Ana smiles at him.

"Yes, Ana insisted she help," Mia explains with an exaggerated roll her eyes. "I told her it was not necessary, but she was adamant that she couldn't just come over and eat all of our food. Those are her words, not mine!"

"I didn't want to pass up the opportunity to learn something new," Ana explains, shooting Mia a sideways smile and glance. "Besides, without Kate around I haven't been cooking as much as I usually do. Cooking for one is a little depressing." I have someone who cooks a menu for one every night for me. Is my life really that depressing? Yes, it is.

"So you cook often?" My mother asks, as my phone starts buzzing in my pocket. I take it out, giving the ID a quick glance, and upon seeing it's the office, I swiftly hit the power button. I've never done that before, but it can wait a little while. Everyone in my family has that same stunned expression from earlier in the evening on their faces. But, when Ana begins to answer my mother's question, all eyes turn back to her.

"As I was just explaining to...Christian, I grew up primarily with my dad." Ana takes a small sip of her wine, as her eyes turn to me then flit to each of my family members. Again, she hesitates ever so slightly before saying my name. I notice that she doesn't say he's her step father, solidifying in my mind that their bond is a tight one. "Ray would have been content eating boxed foods every night, but a girl can only take so much Kraft macaroni and cheese and instant potatoes." Smiling she continues, "So, I usually made dinner for the two of us when I lived with him. And now that I live with Kate, who isn't the best cook either, I usually wind up making meals for the two of us."

She's used to taking care of others. Considering what I remember of Miss Kavanagh's personality and taking her family's position into consideration, it makes perfect sense that she would have a friend who takes such good care of her. It seems that Ana enjoys being the caretaker, and for some reason that makes me smile.

"Well Ana, you sound like the kind of woman I want to marry," Elliot flirts with a huge smile on his face. Surprisingly, this bothers me and I work to keep the expression on my face impassive. When I do turn to look at Elliot, I notice that he and Mia are smirking at one another while peering over the wine glasses they've each brought to their faces simultaneously. Tearing their eyes away from one another for just a moment, they each sneak a look at me before bursting into a fit of irritating giggles.

I don't speak much for the remainder of dinner, deciding instead to sulk as I usually do. I don't like the sneaking suspicion that my siblings are enjoying the obviousness of my discomfort over the attraction I feel for Ana. It pisses me off, actually. Have I really allowed myself to be so transparent tonight?

When we're finished, my mom and Mia start to clear the table. Ana stands to help, but the two of them tell her to sit down and relax. She continues to help anyway, and disappears into the kitchen with my female family members to help Gretchen clean up. My brother, father, and I make our way back to the living room to discuss the latest Mariner's game, stopping only at the dry bar in my father's study to grab an after dinner snifter of Macallan 60 year vintage single malt scotch whisky.

After a few minutes, Ana pokes her head in the living room to get our orders for dessert. "Sorry for interrupting you, but Grace was wondering if any of you would like coffee or tea with your dessert." I put my order in for a coffee, but her familiarity with my mother startles me; usually, Mia's friends call her Dr. Trevelyan or Mrs. Grey. My family must be as smitten with this girl as I am. Smitten? Maybe intrigued is a better word; smitten makes me sound like a pussy. Get it together Grey.

A little while later, my mother comes into the living room carrying a tray with our desserts and drinks. "Mia's giving Ana a tour of the house," she explains. "Now that I've met her I understand why Mia has become so fond of her. She seems like a bright girl. I would go so far as to say she's quite charming." I catch Elliot smirking at me, so I give him my best cold, CEO stare and try hard to keep an indifferent expression. It doesn't deter is expression, and instead his smile widens.

"Maybe she'll be a good influence on our capricious daughter," my father sighs with a small smile playing at his lips. "I don't think she's given a single thought about what she wan-"

"Carrick!" My mother interrupts with irritation and an exaggerated swipe of her hand through the air. "She just got home from Paris. Give her some time, she'll figure it all out soon enough."

"Let's hope." With that, my father abandons the topic and turns to me instead. "So Christian what have you been up to this week?"

I begin telling my family about the world of mergers and acquisitions, but my father is the only one who truly understands what it is that I do. I know my mother finds my accomplishments to be quite pleasing, but it's clear to me that she is feigning interest in my business babble. I would stop, but the look of complete boredom on Elliot's face is enough to keep me going. When Elliot lets out a long, exaggerated yawn, our father turns the conversation toward Elliot, asking him about the construction business. I excuse myself to the bathroom.

When I'm finished my business, I take a moment to look at myself in the mirror. I have to give myself a moment to collect the thoughts that have been wracking my brain all night. Giving myself the most confident stare I can, I repeat a mantra in my head: Get your shit together. You're Christian Fucking Grey, and she's just a little girl. Christian. Fucking. Grey.

When I leave the room, I have a new-found determination to stay composed, but it quickly dissipates the second my foot leaves the lavatory. Ana is down the hall innocently checking out the wall of pictures in the foyer, or as my siblings and I like to call it, the 'perfect family wall.' Should I go back to the living room, or go talk to Ana? Go to the living room. My body instinctively disobeys my thoughts, and I unconsciously take strides down the hall toward the most beautiful woman I've ever laid eyes on. With each step the current between us grows stronger, and I know she's aware of my proximity.

"That was Elliot's high school graduation party," I explain softly when I find myself behind her. Ana's looking at the biggest picture of all of them, one of Elliot, Mia, and I on my parents' boat. It's probably my mother's favorite picture of us. A beaming Elliot and I each have an arm around a tiny, shy-looking Mia. I'm almost smiling in this image. The corners of my lips are raised just enough to show that I'm actually happy, but trying to fight the undeserved feeling.

"You all look so...happy," she says softly, without turning around to look at me. "It must have been great to grow up with siblings." With this she turns around slowly to give me a small closed-mouth smile that is beautiful despite not showing her perfect teeth. I can't help but feel a little guilty over this statement; I'm usually such an asshole to my family.

Shifting her attention from the graduation picture, Ana points to an image above and to the right of the first. It's my personal favorite, one of me as a little boy and baby Mia. Shooting her eyes over her shoulder, she lets out a little giggle, and it has to be the most beautiful sound I've ever heard. "This is you?"

I smile wide. Wait, I don't smile this much. "Yeah. That was the day Mia was brought home from the hospital. She was so little, and loud even then. I was obsessed with her." I laugh, but it's true. Mia's my soft spot even to this day.

She reaches up and her delicate fingers caress the wooden frame. "You two are adorable."

I take another couple steps toward her, and place my hand on the small of Ana's back as if it's a familiar, intimate habit I've partaken in countless times over my lifetime. It's instinctual, and just feels right. She turns to look at me, but with my other hand I divert her attention back to the wall of pictures that detail my childhood. Never breaking our physical contact, I explain a few more of the pictures: "We were in China for this one," "This was when I received first place in a kickboxing tournament," "Mia's first dance recital."

Our proximity is thrilling, and the electricity I've experienced-we've experienced, because I know she's felt it too-with every touch is palpable throughout the whole exchange. I'm privy to Ana's body responding to my touch. Her breaths become fuller, as if each one is a conscious effort, her cheeks are lightly flushed, and when I turn my head to look at Ana, her teeth clasp her pink lower lip in concentration. The action becomes my undoing. Don't do it Grey. My mind is no longer in control.

Taking in a sharp delicious breath, I increase the pressure between my hand and Ana's lower back in an attempt to draw her closer to my body. I feel my cock harden in response to Ana's renewed closeness. When she turns to face me, I use my loose hand to free her lip from its toothy prison. I want to bite that lip. Her eyes widen when my hand goes to her mouth, and those gorgeous blue eyes trail down from my eyes, scouring my face, and eventually they settle on my lips. It's like she's begging me to kiss her, and I want to, so I begin to lean in toward her. I'm going to kiss this girl. I'm going to fuck this girl. I need to taste this girl.