Please excuse any typos out errors. I wrote this on my phone so I could get you another chapter. It's a short one.

Chapter 7: A Connection

APOV

I started my internship at SIP yesterday. I had a good day and everyone there is nice. Although my boss, Jack, is kind of weird. Maybe it's because I'm new.

Even though I had all this going on I could not stop thinking about Christian. I know it's dumb, I barely had one date with him. But I can't deny there was a spark between us that I never felt before - even with Matt. And I feel like he liked me too. But now I don't know if he liked me for me or just as a sub.

He's called me a few times since Saturday night. I haven't returned his calls because I don't know what to say. I like him and he takes my breath away just at a touch but I don't think I can be what he wants sexually. I did a little research on BDSM since of the stuff downright scares me.

Kate is having Elliot over for dinner except I'm the one cooking. I like Elliot. He's a nice guy and makes Kate happy.

After I change out of my work clothes into something more comfortable I head out to the kitchen to cook dinner. Elliot is sitting at our breakfast bar when I come into the kitchen.

"Hey Pipsqueak. How's the new job? Did you take over the place yet?" Elliot always makes me laugh. He's so good natured and can be friends with anyone. He gave me the nickname "Pipsqueak" because I only come up to his chest and he says he can use me as an armrest.

"Work is going well. I got to meet one of our authors today and she was originally from Montesano so we were talking pretty much. I think I'm catching on quickly enough. But my boss is kind of weird."

Elliot looks at me kind of confused. "How is he weird?"

"Because he practically eye fucks her every time he sees her." Kate adds in. She's worried that I may have to deal with double standards because I'm young and a woman.

"Well if he gives you any trouble let me know and I'll clean his clock." Elliot winks at me. He's such a big brother. Just then Kate's phone rings with her mom's ringtone. I laugh whenever I hear it because it's Danzig's "Mother". If her mom only knew.

"Hey guys I have to take this. I'll be back." Kate walks into her room and shuts the door.

"Ana, please tell me if I am overstepping here. But even though Christian is strange and acts like an idiot often, he really is a good guy. It's just that he's new to relationships. I wouldn't tell you if I didn't believe he's good." Elliot looks at me with concern.

"Thanks, Elliot." I feel like grilling him for information on Christian but I won't do that to him. After we had a great dinner where Kate made the salad but took credit for the whole meal, we decided to watch some dumb movie. I wasn't paying much attention because I kept thinking about Christian. Around 10 I head into my room and check my gmail. I gasp when I see I have an email from Christian.

To: asteele1891

From: cgrey

Tuesday, June 7, 2011 20:32

Subject: please hear me out

Dear Anastasia,

I apologize for contacting you in this manner as this conversation should happen in person. However since you aren't returning my calls I feel this is my last resort.

First, I'd like to congratulate on your first couple of days at work. I have no doubt that someone as smart and friendly as you are will do well.

Second, I can't apologize enough for what happened on Saturday. I should have been upfront with you and told you about my playroom from the beginning. I'm not used to having to explain things to other people. If I were in your shoes I would be upset by that information as well.

I'm going to be honest with you. I have no clue what the hell I am doing. I have never been in a conventional relationship before so this is all new to me.

I haven't been able to stop thinking about you. You are the most fascinating creature I have ever met. Your laugh is the most hypnotic thing I've ever heard. I crave holding your hand. I just want to be around you.

Over these past couple of days I've realized that I want to be more with you. I don't want you to be my submissive. I want to take you on dates and go to the movies and do whatever normal couples do.

I realize that I am an intense person and a lot to take on but I hope you'll give us another chance. We will take it at your speed. We can start out as just friends if you want. Name it and I'll do it. I know I probably seem like I'm begging you. I don't know how else to convey my feelings to you.

I hope to see you again.

Sincerely,

Christian

Oh my God.

That is the most romantic email in the history of emails. I'm glad he couldn't stop thinking about me either. That makes me want to jump up and down. Maybe starting off as friends while we get to know each other is a good start.

I have to call him. Is it too late? Hopefully he will still be awake.

"Anastasia?"

"Hi Christian. Are you busy?" Please say no. Please say no.

"I always have time for you." Just his voice sounds like sex. It puts dirty visions in my mind. Concentrate Steele!

"Um, thank you for the email you sent to me. It was beautiful." I can hear him smile on the other end of the phone.

"It's the truth, Ana." Jesus. I feel like he could make my insides melt.

"I think maybe we got off on the wrong foot. I like your idea of trying to be friends. Would that be OK with you?" I'm not sure if I'm ready for another relationship or if I'm ready to have sex.

"Of course. Would you like to meet for brunch on Saturday? We could invite Kate and Elliot." I think she may feel more comfortable that way.

"That sounds like a good idea. I'll talk to Kate and get back to you." I hope she doesn't have any other plans.

"Sounds good, Anastasia. I look forward to Saturday. Good night."

"Goodnight Christian." I feel like I can barely get the words out. I hang up and try to fall asleep but I'm too excited. This week is going to take forever.