Chapter 9
CPOV
I feel another unknown emotion I've never experienced before, and the only way I can describe it is blissfully happy. Yes, that's how I feel right now. I am still a bit upset with Ana thinking it's best that we keep our new found relationship quiet, however, I can see her point, and I am enjoying our bubble.
I spent an amazing night with Ana, I slept like a baby, and had no nightmares again. This is the second time we've slept together and I didn't have a nightmare. Anastasia is still peacefully sleeping, and should sleep for awhile longer, so I head out to confirm everything for tonight with Taylor. We're going to have extra security for tonight. Taylor is bringing his buddy Luke Sawyer on. I already know Anastasia will have something to say about this matter, but safety comes first, always. And if that doesn't piss her off, knowing I had Ms. Acton create an entire wardrobe specifically for Anastasia will likely cause a war. Ms. Acton's people are placing everything in a spare room until we leave, I don't want Ana to know anything too soon, then Mrs. Jones will see to it that they move into my closet while we're at the Coping Together event. Taylor has also picked up the necklace from Cartier that I purchased for Ana. I always buy her some sort of jewellery when we attend events together, which is every event we attend, but this time she's my girl and I went all out.
After speaking with Taylor, and putting the necklace in my safe, I ask Mrs. Jones to start breakfast. Ana's favourite, pancakes. With business matters attended to, I head to my room to wake my sleeping beauty.
My heart sinks when I see her already awake. She looks slightly upset and confused, looking around the room, so I quickly reassure her that I just had a few things to take care of. We've been watching Ana's favourite films most of the morning and into the afternoon, snacking on junk, something I rarely do, but I'm enjoying my time with her. Every minute has been better than the next, especially when I gave Anastasia her first orgasm this morning in the shower. I have Ana in my arms, which has become my new Nirvana, while we watch the television. We're both laying comfortably across the sofa, in our own little bubble, that we don't realize Taylor has entered the room until he clears his throat.
"Franco has arrived for Ms. Steele, sir."
Ana shoots up in panic. We've lost track of the time and she hasn't even begin getting ready for the gala yet. Before I can say anything she runs off to her room, where Taylor says Franco is waiting for her, so she can finally start getting beautified, as Franco calls it, but my girl doesn't need any help. She is already beyond naturally beautiful. Once Ana is out of sight I decide while I am waiting, and before I get ready, to call Elliot to see if he has told anyone about me kissing Ana.
"Hey, Bro," He answers on the second ring, "You fuck up anything else with Ana, hence the call?"
"No, El," I growl annoyed. "I just wanted to ask if you have told anyone about me kissing Ana?"
The line goes quiet, and a part of me is hoping he has told everyone, but I know Ana wants what she wants.
"Nah, bro," He finally answers. "I haven't said anything. You two okay?"
"Yeah, we talked, we are all good, Lel. I will see you later."
I hang up and head to my room to start getting ready. While I am getting ready, I keep thinking about how Ana will look tonight. I know my cock will be rock hard all night long, and I might murder some fucker for looking at her, but she's going to be on my arm as my girl instead of my friend, although secretly. I have my tux on now, and I'm ready go, so I head to my office to get Anastasia's necklace. After I have everything I need, I walk to the kitchen to get some champagne for me and my girl to enjoy before we leave. As I pour the champagne, I notice Taylor has placed our masks on the breakfast bar.
I'm still waiting on Ana, so while I wait I decide on some music. Witchcraft by good old Frank Sinatra seems to be very appropriate. As Sinatra starts crooning, I notice Franco leave, which can only mean Ana is ready. I head to the stairs, knowing she will come down soon, but I stop short when I see her at the top.
She's a vision in red, wearing a McQueen design with a plunging neckline. It's like time has slowed as she makes her way down, and as she comes closer, I help her. When she takes my hand, and is safely on the main floor, I kiss her knuckles. I know she doesn't like dancing, but I want this moment alone before I'm to share her with everyone. She giggles when I twirl her out, taking in the dress, before I pull her back into my arms and start to sway.
We have to leave soon so I take her to the breakfast bar for some champagne, and so I can give her the mask I chose for her. Now it's time for the necklace.
"Baby, I got this for you." I tell her, handing her the signature red Cartier box. "I knew it would go with your dress and look incredible on you. Will you wear it for me this evening?"
"Oh jeez, Christian," She exclaims when she opens the box. "This is beautiful, but far to much. I could never wear something so expensive. What If I lose it or it breaks?" Nonsense.
"It's not as beautiful as you, baby, and if you lose it or it breaks, then I will get you ten more in it's place. Please wear it for me." I give her my best panty dropping smile, I know she can't resist.
Instead of waiting for a response, I help her put it on. And I was right, it looks amazing around her neck, showing she's mine.
"We have to get going." I tell her with a kiss.
I know that I am going to be the luckiest man in the world tonight, even if I can't tell the world she is mine yet.
APOV
I adore Franco, his energy is so infectious, and he's great at what he does. We have gone for soft curls for my hair and, according to Franco, sexy seductive make up. I am so happy with my dress, I purchased it weeks back, but I was beginning to worry about Christian's reaction to it because I can't wear a bra and it is a bit revealing. My worries were soon forgotten, though when I saw Christian looking at me from the bottom of the stairs.
I can't believe he actually got me to dance with him, let alone buy me this expensive necklace, but I think he could get me to agree on anything.
It's time to leave, so we head downstairs to the car. Christian, being the gentleman he is, opens the door for shuts the door for us then he begins to drive toward Bellevue. I don't know why I'm getting nervous, I've been there many times before, and this will be my 7th Coping Together event. So why am I nervous? Christian must sense my discomfort because he begins stroking my arm and sits closer to me. Soon we are kissing again. Lost in the moment, we don't even realize we're here until the car stops. When we pull our lips apart, Christian's eyes are so dark. I know he's not happy that we are keeping this to ourselves, but it's only until we know what we actually are. I turn around to look out the window and see all the paps outside waiting.
"Don't worry about them." Christian tells me, "Masks on, Ms. Steele."
After we put on our masks, Taylor opens the door. Christian helps me out and we let the paps snap a few photos of us together before Taylor escorts us through. As we walk around back, where the event is being held, the main photographer directs us to where he's taking photos. The Sound is in the perfect background, giving the photos a beautiful midnight fantasy backdrop. Christian says we will buy our photograph before we head home. Before I realise what's happening, I am nealry knocked on my ass by Mia practically jumping on me.
"MIA!" Christian barks.
"Oh, lighten up, sour puss." She tells Christian. "I was just saying hello. You know I love Ana."
Just as quick as she came, she runs off. I mean, blink and you would have missed her. She is like a ball of energy that one. Christian grabs us a drink from a passing waiter, when I am engulfed into a bear hug by Elliot.
"Oh, Ana," Elliot whines.
I can hardly breathe with his arms around me so tight.
"ELLIOT!" Christian literally growls his brother's name.
"Are you sure you picked the right brother?" Elliot jokes.
"I am very sure on that one, Elliot."
"We'll see you later," Christian tells his brother, escorting me away.
"Baby, I might end up in prison after murdering someone tonight." He warns me. "Would you wait for me while I served my time?"
"Yes, I would," I giggle at his sour face. "But let's not be drastic."
"Anastasia, you know I'm a jealous man, I'm only going to be more possessive of my girlfriend," Girlfriend? I'm smiling as he continues, perhaps unknowing of what he just said. "and seeing other man fall all over you isn't going to be easy for me. You're mine."
"Yes, I know about your possessive and controlling qualities." I smirk.
"Good."
"So," I casually take a sip of my wine. "Your girlfriend, huh? That must mean you're my boyfriend."
"Yes," He chuckles at my teasing. "That's exactly what it means."
I really want to kiss him right now, but I can't. Me and my stupid ideas. Nice one, Ana.
CPOV
I really want to kill my siblings sometimes. I know Elliot likes to tease me about Ana, but there was a time when I thought he had a thing for her, and he does joke about being with her. I'm just glad it's all just to annoy me and he doesn't really feel that way towards her. Now that I've told Ana that she is my girlfriend, I guess that makes everything official. Maybe we could tell everyone tonight? I'm hoping so, I want the world to know she's mine and mine only, starting with family first, but I'll let Ana take the lead. I escort Ana to the family table where she is instantly stolen from me by my grandfather. He adores Anastasia just as much as my grandmother does.
"So, Ana Banana," My grandfather begins, "When are you going to find yourself a nice young man and settle down?"
"Oh, Theo," She smirks at me, "You know this one keeps me too busy."
"Christian, you go easy on Ana." He chastises me. "She will never find a nice young man with you always around."
"Maybe that's the plan, Gramps." I smile at my grandfather. I notice Ana's body tense up as I help her sit. I take my seat next to her as everyone joins us.
"Ana, I forget to mention during our phone call the other day," My mother says, "Mia signed you up for the first dance auction this evening. You will have so much fun, and you never know, you could meet the man of your dreams."
No way, mum. She already has the man of her dreams, your son, so quit playing match maker.
"Oh, Grace, I couldn't.. er.. I dont think.." I have to interupt her.
"Anastasia wont be taking part in the auction tonight, she hasn't before, so case closed." I say in my no nonsense CEO tone.
I see my dad give me a questioning look. He is the best lawyer in Seattle, and he always picks up on things.
"Christian, Ana is not your girlfriend nor your wife, so it's none of your business if she participates or not."
I feel Ana's hand squeeze my leg. It calms me, but not for long.
"Yeah," Mia agrees, "Why shouldn't she be able to participate in the first dance auction?"
I can feel myself losing it at the thought of Anastasia being in the auction. I give Mia, and everyone else, a half-assed answer and continue on talking with Elliot. The conversation is flowing. Gramps is making Ana giggle. God, I love her giggle. I am snapped out of my daydream by a man approaching the table.
It takes me a few seconds to realise who he is. Oh fuck no! Before I can do anything, I feel my phone vibrate so I pull it out of my pocket. Elliot's dumbass, who is sitting near me, sent me a text.
E. What's going on, bro?
C. Nothing.
E. Why you so bothered then?
C. She's my girl, El.
E. I fucking knew it! Why haven't you said anything to anyone?
C. It's what Anastasia wants. It's temporary, I assure you.
"Hello, Ana," I resist rolling my eyes when he all but purrs. "It's nice to see you again. You look lovely tonight." I go to get up from my chair, to tell this fucker off, but my phone vibrates again so I read the message.
E. Dude keep your ass in that chair or everyone will know something's up.
C. I've just had enough! I can't take anymore.
APOV
I know Christian is going to go thermonuclear over this whole first dance thing. I tried getting out of it, but I don't think Mia or Grace will hear it. I'm trying to comfort Christian by keeping a hold of his leg, although I'm unsure if it's working or not. Theo is keeping me distracted so when I hear someone say my name I'm a little startled.
"Hello, Ana," He purrs. "It's nice to see you again. You look lovely tonight."
"Hello, Cooper." I totally forgot he and his teammates where going to be here.
"This is my date, Christian Grey, and the Grey family." I introduce him to everyone.
It's a tie between Elliot and Mia who are the most star struck, though I think for Mia it's more about attraction than his career.
"Dr. Grey, I have a cheque for the charity from the entire Seahawk family." He tells Grace, grinning politely. "It's such a worthy cause."
"Oh, thank you, dear."
"Ana, I heard you where going to be participating in the first dance auction this evening."
How did he know? I just found out.
"I hope I get the pleasure of your first dance."
Before I get the chance to say anything he walks away. The next thing I know, I'm practically pulled out of my chair by Christian. He is walking so fast, I can barely keep up. When we're out of sight, Christian throws me over his shoulder and practically runs to the boathouse. He kicks the door open and places me on my feet. Before I can say anything, his lips crash into mine. The kiss is frantic and chaotic. I pull away as I cant breath.
"Christian, what the hell?"
"I'm sorry, baby, but I have been going crazy out there, and that fucking douchebag thinking he will dance with you tipped me over the edge. If everyone knew you were mine, then no fucker would come near you, and I wouldn't be going crazy."
"I'm sorry, Christian, I didn't realise how much of an effect this would have on you. I know your tendencies, I should have been a bit more attentive to your needs."
I pull him back towards me and give him a kiss.
"Baby, the only man you will dance with tonight, or any other night, is me."
"I already knew that." I kiss him again.
"Whatever will we tell Theo?" I ask, trying to break some of the tension. We laugh, and after a few more kisses, we head back to the party. As we take our seats, we get a lot of questioning looks, but I think Elliot covered for us.
CPOV
I can't believe the nerve of that fucker, did he not see me sitting there? Did he not hear Anastasia refer to me as her date?! I should have broken his legs and ruined his career. I shouldn't have lost control like I did and dragged Ana out of there, but I needed her close to me, and I couldn't do it in front of everyone. We are back at the table now, ready to eat, and I know that this first dance shit is approaching. I am not worried about winning, I'm not hurting for cash and will pay any price for Anastasia. We finish our meal and Ana is quickly whisked away by Mia.
"Hey, son," My grandfather approaches me. "You ready to have a fight on your hands for Ana?"
"Gramps, it's not exactly a fair fight, now is it?" I get what I want, always.
"Is there something going on with you and Ana? I noticed the vibe between the pair of you is different tonight."
"When Ana and I are ready to say something, you will be the first to know, gramps." I let it be known without actually saying the words. I'm sure he'll get the hint.
"You best treat her like a queen." He does.
"I intend on doing just that."
The auction has begun, so I make my way to the front. I don't notice any of the other women in the auction, I'm focused on what's mine.
Elliot has bid on Mia to piss her off. She hinted earlier that she wanted a Seahawk to bid on her first dance, but not our little sister. If I wasn't biding on Ana, I would be right next to Elliot. El wont hear the end of this from her, I'm sure. Ana is up next. I know I am going to win, but that doesn't help my anxiety.
"Now gentlemen, we have saved the best until last." The auctioneer begins his introduction of Ana, "Look at this beauty we have here. This is the lovely Anastasia. She can speak 6 languages, likes to read, and will make any man's heart race. She is also a yoga instructor. I mean, take a good look at that body, you can tell."
No, fuckers, do not look at her body or any other part of her. She's mine. That auctioneer is going to have my fist in his face if he doesn't shut the fuck up.
He starts the bidding at $1,000 and the Seahawk douchebag shouts $5,000 before anyone has a chance to say anything.
I shout,
"$10,000!"
"15!" From the Seahawk douche.
I chuckle when my grandfather shouts, "20!"
But then I see red when the Seahawk douche shouts, "50!"
Seahawk douche looks at me and smirks like he's won. Is he that naïve? Does he not know who I am? It's time to put an end to this show.
"One hundred thousand dollars," I announce loud and clear,
"Going once," The auctioneer begins when it's quiet, the Seahawk douche has backed down. "Going twice, Sold, to Mr. Christian Grey."
I stroll towards the stage to claim my prize, taking Anastasia's hand and helping her down.
"I want to take you somewhere." I whisper in her ear.
I need to be alone with her, if only for a couple minutes, so I take her to my childhood bedroom. As soon as we enter the room, we're passionately kissing. We're all hands, touching and kissing, and I will her dress to be off. Oh fuck! Did I take her dress off without even realizing? Holy shit! She's not wearing a bra! She picks her dress up, tossing it onto the bed so it wont wrinkle, then she lunges at me, her lips finding mine again. I wrap my arms around her waist, her tiny body only covered with barely there lace panties. Soon I feel her hand glide down and rub my erection through my trousers. Before I realize what's happening, she has me unzipped and has my cock out.
"Baby," My voice is hoarse when she drops to her knees. "You don't have to do anything you don't want to."
"But I want to." She purrs.
Oh fuck me!
She licks the tip of my cock while she grasps her hand around my shaft. Slowly she starts to move her hand back and forth, stimulating a hand job, while she takes me into her mouth, licking and sucking me. Oh this has never felt so good. I can't resist thrusting my hands into her hair as she continues.
I know she is getting more confident when she removes her hand and takes all of me in her mouth.
"Oh fuck," I groan in pleasure.
She is going at such a fast pace, and I'm trying not to flex my hips, but I know I can't hold on much longer.
"Baby, I am going to cum." I warn her in a strained voice. "If you don't want it in your mouth, you need to stop now."
She sucks me harder, right to the back of her throat, and I cum hard inside her mouth. I'm still panting as I help her to stand, and I kiss her, tasting myself.
"Baby, do you have no gag reflex?" I ask her in awe.
"I guess not?" She questions, which can only mean she's never done this before. That pleases me. "Was that okay, I mean, did you enjoy it?"
"Baby, there are no words." I walk her back towards the bed. "That was unreal, I loved it, now let me make you cum."
Before I can do anything, I hear a loud annoying voice come from downstairs.
"Christian! Ana!" I growl hearing Mia. "The first dance is starting, come on!"
Fuck, what a time to interrupt, I was about to get my fill of my girl. We dress, fixing ourselves so it doesn't look like we were fucking around, then make our way back down to the event. We take our place on the dance floor just as the band starts.
I have an elective taste in music, but I've not heard this song before. I like the lyrics though so I'll have to remember to,
"Meghan Trainor and John Legend, like am gonna lose you." She answers my unasked question, knowing I was puzzled.
I love that she understands my unspoken thoughts.
We dance close, getting lost in the moment, in each other's eyes, but then I notice movement to my right. Taylor is speaking into his earpiece.
What's going on?
I look around for Sawyer, and the extra security we hired for tonight, and see him heading towards our position. I look back at Taylor and he's rushing towards us. Something's happening. I frantically look around, thinking maybe I can see if there is any immediate threat before they reach us, and when I look to my left, I see a familiar face. The threat is known instantly when I see a gun in their hands, pointed in the direction of Ana and I.
The next thing I hear, before everything goes ballistic, is screaming and the sound of multiple bullets. My last thought is of Anastasia before everything goes dark.