Authors Note: I may have one or two errors in this chapter, but I just got back from the east coast of Australia. I will edit this chapter tomorrow Again! Please enjoy.
Take a Bite of My Apple... the Big Apple?
Ana's POV:
"Christian, stop pacing! You are making me nervous!" I snap, but it does little to change him behavior.
"Ana... I can't. I have never had to face this type of obstacle before. I never thought I would. I have taken measures to ensure I don't ever have to deal with ... this" Christian is waving his hands around like a crazy man.
"Calm down before I phone Dr Flynn!"
"Anastasia you don't understand." Christian starts to pace and I wish that I could turn back the clock now. But it is too late! "I cannot do this."
"Christian Grey, it isn't as if I am pregnant or anything. We just have your family over for lunch. Now calm down immediately, before I rip my clothes off and fuck you silly right now!" I yell at the top of my lungs.
"Oh please do!" A voice calls out from the entrance to the main room. Standing there is Elliot with his arm around a rather surprised Kate, Ethan and Mia. This could be salvaged, expect the fact that Grace and Carrick Grey have also arrived and had front row seats to my threat to rip my clothes off. What do I say now?
Actually forget finding the words today... I want the ground to open up and swallow me whole. Logic dictates that this is not probable, so I consider jumping from the balcony to end my humiliation. Of all the possible moments for Christian's family, and Kate and Ethan to walk in, did it have to be this very second? It's horrible enough that Elliot and Kate, the two people Christian and I are closest to, just overheard my threat, but so did Grace and Carrick Grey! My face starts to burn giving our invited guests a visual to my humiliation.
"Not today Elliot," Christian has entered CEO mode, completely in control. Oh, how I wish I could do that! "You are all early, but welcome. Ana and I have been looking forward to lunch." Christian greets. "Mom and dad, I sincerely hope that Ana's comment would cease any speculation that I am gay or ever was." What did Christian just say? He looks at me playfully and smirks. One consolation is at least he isn't stressed about his family being here for lunch now. Playful Christian is adorable.
"Evidently!" Mia replies ever so dramatically. She makes me smile.
Christian squeezes my hand and tugs at it, but I hesitate to move. "Anastasia, come. Forget it... I will be with you." In some crazy way, this puts me at ease, at least part of me. Christian greets his parents first while I make a beeline to Kate. I hug her tightly hoping to absorb the confidence in myself that I have seemed to lose the second they all walked in.
"And my mother always pointed out how innocent and sweet you were, and how I should be more like you. Steele you are one bad ass!" Kate whispers into my ear.
"Kate...kill me now. It will be easier than facing everyone now." Though my reply is only answered with a shake of her head and a sympathetic smile. I step over to Elliot and before I can react, he wraps his arms around me, giving me the biggest bear hug I have ever had in my whole life.
"Hope I didn't embarrass you. But if there is an opportunity to tease my I-never-make-mistakes brother, it's too hard not to take it" Elliot replays apologetically to me, but sniggers in the direction of Christian.
"Don't worry; I think I did a good enough job embarrassing myself." I greet Mia and Ethan, and then face Christian's parents. They must be mortified as I am. They are so dignified and socialites that the scene I caused them probably caused their blood pressure to spike.
"Mr and Mrs Grey" I refer to them formally due to the entrance I offered them. Only them Christian and I are in the door to the main room now. Everyone else has moved into the main room.
"Ana, please call us Carrick and Grace" I nod quickly as Christian's mother reminds me. Well, I would have called you by your first names if I hadn't embarrassed myself completely!
"Thank you for inviting us; this is the first time that Christian has had the family over for lunch. We have been looking forward to this." Carrick replies politely. I feel Christian's safe and steadfast hands around me, and instinctively I lean against him.
"You're welcome. Also, I apologize that you heard. Uuumm.. What... I said... It was just that... Christian was..." I try to explain but am interrupted by Grace. I am not sure because she can't stand me mumbling or the fact that I am digging an even bigger hole for myself.
"Ana please do not be too concerned. Yes, it was an unconventional verse to hear, but considering ours sons past actions and what had learnt from his past recently, trust us when I say that it didn't even faze me or Carrick. In fact considering it was you who said that and how much our son has changed with you in this short amount of time..." Grace stops looking like she is getting emotional. She comes over to me and hugs me, causing Christian to let go of me. The Grey family is a very huggy-type of the family. How did Christian ever manage it? Or avoid it actually? "Actually Christian since you have been able to keep so much secret... When did you honestly meet Anastasia or has she been part of your past?"
"At her graduation mother" Christian is more than uncomfortable answering the question and with reason. I am mortified, not because his mother is actually asking if I had been his submissive, but the fact is that they are probably suspicious that Christian wanted me to be so at one time or another. Fuck! Do they know what we have done together?
"I think it is time we join the rest of our guests, and save them from Elliot's poor wit" Christian adds. His father walks towards him and they begin conversing over the Mariners game. I would have happily remained at the entrance to the main room and pretended to be a wall fly, except Grace has walked up behind me and out her arm on my back.
"My son is so happy with you. I don't know what you are doing, but please keep going!" I am shocked not only by Grace's little speech but the fact that she kisses my cheek also. The embarrassment I have felt since they walked into the penthouse dissipates and I regain myself assurance.
With Christian's assistance, I lay out the entree plates in the main room where everyone has congregated. "Wow little bro, in the past twenties minutes I have seen you smile twice and even helped out with a domestic activity. Let me guess, Ana doesn't work in publishing rather she is a neurosurgeon who has performed a lobotomy on you, right?"
"Anastasia has many gifts, and if the medicine was one of them, then I am sure she would happily help mankind by wiring your jaw shut." I desperately want to laugh at Christian and Elliot's verbal antics, but since the topic is me, I refrain. No wonder Mia is as loud and spirited as she is. She had to be or no one would have ever noticed her with brothers like Christian and Elliot.
"Boys enough of that" Their mother admonishes them but I get the feeling that their constant commentary never ends between them two.
"Ana, my son tells me you are going to New York tomorrow for work. Have you been before?"
"No. I have only ever been to Vegas and Georgia, and that is because my mother lived in those states" I lie but only partially. I have only been to Vegas and Georgia though the last time I went to Vegas was to teach Christian a lesson that I won't be deceived.
"New York in an incredible city, though nothing could beat the beauty of France or the exoticism of Asia." Grace directs towards me. I don't know what to say, but have to say something as she is looking towards me.
"I wouldn't know. I haven't been out of USA. One day I will, I guess" I answer shrugging and that is when I feel Christian's eyes on me. I gaze at him, but he is unreadable.
"Do I have something on my face?" I whisper quietly.
"No."
"Then why are you still staring at me."
"Because I can't take my eyes off you." I smile embarrassed, focusing down on the floor though not for long, as Christian place's his fingers below my chin and raises my head to meet his. "Can I help you get lunch out?" I nod.
"Excuse us please while we get lunch on the table," Christian replies. Everyone nods except Elliot, who has an all too telling gleam in his eye.
"Christian... if you take too long, we will know that you made Ana make good on her promise" He jeers referring to my statement to rip my clothes off. Christian is about to reply when in a boost of overconfidence hits me.
"No need to worry about that. I prefer to wait until after you have left. The three times this morning was enough to hold me over till then." Elliot looks gobsmacked but then grins at me and laughs out loud
"Christian, if you ever let Ana go, I am going to pound you to an inch of your life."
"I don't think there will be any chance of that." My heart starts beating so fast at Christian's statement. Oh...I wish we were alone right now. I would make good on my threat. Nonetheless, we may have company but we can get privacy.
"We will be right back" I inform everyone graciously and then tug at Christian hand, harder than needed. I want him to follow me into the dining room and now! Thankfully he doesn't need much prompting.
Once finally alone, Christian, aware of my need, even if all he can do right now is kiss me, pushes me against the wall and possesses me with his mouth. "So Anastasia, I have to say that it has been an exciting start to our little lunch time party."
"I am worried what your parents are thinking. I know that your parents said it was fine when they came in and heard me, but just then... maybe tomorrow they will realize that I am wrong for you!"
"Anastasia... Trust me... my parents love you already. The fact that I am with you and playful is a joy for them. Elliot is crude, but it's his nature. I would trade him in, but I doubt anyone would ever want to be my brother." I pout at his negative comment about himself, but stop once Christian places his thumb on my chin releasing my lip. "Please, for the love of God, don't pout. It makes you even more attractive and enticing. My parents can laugh off your comment, but I doubt they would be so joyful to hear you in the throes of passion or worse walk in on us."
"Lunch, it is then."
"Until everyone leaves" Christian adds, grinning as he grabs two salad bowls. I shake my head but smile. Oh, Christian...
Despite the undesirable start to our lunch, the rest of our meal progresses nicely. We kept it relatively simple with a few different salads, pasta dishes and schnitzels, which in hindsight was a brilliant idea. Since this was the first ever meal Christian has hosted for his family or anyone at Escala, I convinced him we should prepare the entire meal ourselves. However, I had no idea that it would take him so long just to cut up the vegetables for the salad. Either way it was endearing to watch him and have him help me. Deserts were kept simple with chocolate cake and ice cream.
"Kate are you going to finish your cake?" Elliot questions as he finishes the last few bites of his desert, and looking longingly at her bowl. You would think he never had cake before.
"Yes I am" Kate comments, but then scoops a large chunk and feeds him. Now Kate has never been a shy person but this display and then rather passionate public kiss that follows silences everyone. Of course, it could be where Elliot has just placed his hand that has caused this reaction. At least it was above Kate's waist and not below. They realize that everyone has taken notice when my best friend blushes for the first time in her life, though Elliot, much like his brother just straightens up acting like nothing has happened.
"Christian, when do you get back from New York? Want to take 'The Grace' out on Saturday?"
"I won't be back until Sunday. Ana hasn't been to New York before, so after our work commitments I intend to show her the city."
"You both should do a horse and carriage ride around Central Park. It will be so romantic. You will fall insanely in love" Mia replies dreamily.
"Christian you are going to New York also?" Ethan questions.
"Yes. I have a business meeting" Oh no! The tone of Christian's voice has taken a turn for the worst.
"Of course... But Ana you're not coming back to Seattle straight after your conference?" Ethan's off tone and louder than usual voice startles me. "I mean don't you have to go back to work? You couldn't have any holiday leave, you just started." I bite my lip trying to think about what to say. I can't explain that Christian interfered as he is now technically my boss. The sale is SIP won't be made public until tomorrow, and I don't know if this embargo extends to his family or not.
"Ethan is right. How did you manage it?" Kate queries.
"External influences." I pray that my answer which is more of a riddle satisfies them but of course it doesn't.
"What does that mean?" Oh, Kate can't you just stop asking questions and leave well enough alone.
"Kate babe, it means that my brother here has intervened somehow... Probably to do what Ana threatened to when we entered... Over and over..." Elliot explains mocking his brother. Christian has another sip of his wine and grins widely. Elliot arrogant expression ends, and he looks towards Kate. "Hey, maybe you and I should go to New York... My brother's apartment is large enough for us all."
"If Elliott is going then so am I." Mia pipes up.
"You are both welcome to use my apartment. The weekend after next," Christian replies. I breathe out relieved. I love Kate and am quickly becoming fond of Elliot and Mia, but having them stay in Christians New York next weekend, wouldn't be comfortable. Christian and I are only just starting to get to know each other.
"Figures" Mia replies.
"No one is going to be going anywhere next weekend," Grace adds sternly. This must be her mother's voice and one I bet she had to use more than less. "Next weekend is 'The Coping Together Ball' Anastasia and Kate, I do hope our sons have informed you both that you're invited and will be seated at our table." Simultaneously Kate and I look at our significant others. Neither of us knew. "I knew it. Neither of them had said anything yet. Seriously Carrick, you need to have a chat with our sons!"
"Kate, would you like to go to a charity ball with me at my parent's house next weekend? We have to engage in awful small talk, eat pompous food and force me get dressed up in uncomfortable clothing and you in a ball gown?" Elliot signs.
"Sounds fantastic! I love getting dressed up and I can go and buy a new dress. You will look gorgeous in a tux" Kate's over excited answer seems to make Grace and Mia blissful but dampens Elliot's mood.
"And you, Ana?" Christian utters. I know he is formally invited me to attend with him, but I wish he hadn't. I don't have a dress appropriate enough to wear nor do I have the funds to purchase one. I shrug non-committal, which only causes Christian to narrow his eyes.
"Mother, do not be concerned we will be there" I tensed up and annoyed at his response. I am yet to say yes.
"Great. Now I think we have taken up enough of your time and hospitality today. Ana and Christian, thank you, it has been a joy." Grace and Carrick stand, as does the rest of our guests, and leave. In less than five minutes are alone again, and I am pressed against the wall by Christian as his lips quickly find mine.
"Are you embarrassed to be seen with me?" I shudder at Christian's question.
"Why would you ever think that? Don't you see how many women practically throw themselves at you?"
"I don't care for them. I care for you. So I ask you again, are you embarrassed to be seen with me?" Christian's tough exterior is breaking and the weak child that he has buried deep down is making an appearance.
"Of course not. If I were then I wouldn't be here with you now" I reply confidently, so there is no doubt in his mind.
"Then why don't you want you come to the ball with me?" Oh, that is what this is about.
"A dress."
"Huh?"
"I don't have a dress to wear. That is all."
"That's easily solved. In New York, I will take you to Saks or make an appointment with a designer." What? Hand on I never wanted him to do that. I am about to object when Christian places a finger over my lips. "Don't argue with me on this one. I want to buy you a dress to wear. Having you by my side next weekend will make my parents happy and it is something that I haven't always done." Oh my, how can I say no now?
"Okay" I reply sheepishly,
"Great! Now let's go to the bedroom. I want you to rip your clothes off and fuck me hard."
Christians POV
The first part of our New York trip proved to be busier than I would have preferred. Ana's literally conference finished at four each day for the three days that it lasted, but she came back to the apartment so excited about the day's events, that she buried herself in work. However, even if she was free in the evening, my business obligations here lasted all day and night due to the complexity of the deal. I was adamant that there would be no stones left unturned as there were so many jobs at risk and acquiring this company was necessary to expand the operations our manufacturing plants. I am usually meticulous but more so now, should anything be left off, then it would limit the time I have spare with Ana at the end of the week. We only have a day and a half in New York after our work obligations are over. I had intended to extend our visit to include the weekend, but I changed my mind. We won't be returning to Seattle until Sunday evening, but I have something else planned that doesn't include a staying at in a concrete jungle. I have planned something else… give this hearts and roses a chance. This is so alien that I almost did the unthinkable and ask Elliot for advice. But my better judgement reigned supreme. I researched the most perfect place within the constraints of only having a weekend. Plus it would be another first for Ana.
"Good morning," I utter waking up to the most perfect scene. Ana, in bed with me and naked. She is half asleep. I fear that I might have worn her out last night. That is a lie…. I don't fear it, I relish it.
"Hhmm. It is."
"I have to get up." I have my last meeting this morning. All the negotiations are complete. The only thing to do is to go through the paperwork and sign the documents. I can't wait to take Ana shopping today for my parents charity ball next weekend.
"I know..." Ana replies sadly though I can't help but grin. "Why are you smiling? Are you that sick of me already?"
"Not at all. The very opposite in fact. I love that, for the first time, I would rather be with someone than attend a business meeting."
"Sound like I am a horrible distraction again."
"I wouldn't describe is as horrible…. I would say you are a tantalizing and irresistible distraction. You're the most gorgeous woman I have ever seen."
"You flatter of me "
"I hope that is not the only thing I do," I reply troubled.
"No, you have a few more talents."
"Anastasia you have no idea how much I would like you calculate how many of my talents I could utilize on you right now. But even I have to get out of bed and dress for my last meeting."
"But Mr Grey, part of you is already up and ready to demonstrate some of your talents" I gasp as Ana takes hold of my grow appendage. Swiftly I move over her, pinning her legs with mine and her arms with me.
"Talent number one: Restraining you" Ana's lips part as she breathes out. I don't even need to check if she is ready for me... I know she is. "For my second talent, I am going to make you scream... quickly." I plunge myself into Ana quickly. I move hard and fast, encouraged by her moans. I climax gloriously as Ana's muscles grip me, and she arches her back as pleasure hits every inch of her body.
"And what is your third talent?" Ana probes between breaths.
"The one talent I am going to do every second until the day I die," I reply and kiss her sweet lips. "I am going to love you."
Ana's POV:
I look at my watch and it is already one o'clock in the afternoon. Christian has been held up with at his meeting due to some final particulars, and I am due to meet the personal shopper at Saks to find a dress for the ball.
"Miss Steele?" Sawyer interrupts my conversation with Kate via text message. "I have just heard from Taylor that the meeting will last another hour. Mr Grey is apologetic but suggested that you can either start looking for a dress or wait for him. If you wish to start and find an appropriate dress, you should charge it to him. He also wanted me to point out that you will need shoes, but not lingerie as he wishes to be present" Poor Sawyer looks more uncomfortable than I do right now.
"Thank you, Sawyer. I think I will start now" I sigh and start to approach the personal shopper. I know that Christian can't help being away, but I wish he were here. I need a third opinion. I bet this personal shopper works on commission and is going to try to convince me to purchase the most expensive dress, regardless of how it looks on me.
"Miss Steele, Welcome to Saks." Yep, as I suspected. Butter wouldn't melt in her mouth!
"Thank you."
"Should we start at the evening wear section?"
"Sure" I reply. I start to follow her when I feel something grab my hand I turn around and am shocked to see him here. "Ethan, what are you doing here?"
Hope you enjoyed this chapter. I am off to bed.. to sleep off my work trip!