Christian wakes up to sunlight filtering through the windows. He's alone and not sure where he is at first until he realizes he's at Ana's place. Did he sleep through the entire night? He can't remember the last time he's done that… if ever.
Anastasia is sitting in a big, overstuffed chair in her living room reading a book and drinking tea. She's got her chocolate-colored hair up in a messy bun and is wearing a lace bralette and panties that are only covered by a large and cozy looking cardigan. How does she manage to look so sexy and sweet at the same time?
Ana looks up from her book to see a sleepy-looking Christian walk into the room. He's only wearing his boxer briefs and is the perfect specimen of man with chiseled abs and that sexy V from his hips. It's obvious he works out and takes care of his body. He looks up at her and gives her a smile so sexy it makes her immediately blush.
"Good morning, beautiful," he says as he saunters over to her and kisses her lightly on the lips.
"Good morning, yourself. Would you like some tea?" She asks.
"Sure," he replies nonchalantly. She places her book down, gets up, and walks to the kitchen area to put the kettle on. When she turns around, she's facing Christian in practically the same spot where they kissed last night.
He pulls her into his arms, "thank you for last night. It was the best night I've had in a long time." He gives her another kiss. She is irresistible, and Christian isn't sure he wants to let her body out of his arms.
"I had a good time, too." She seems shy and quiet, and it makes Christian smile when he thinks of how dirty she was last night.
Christian is dressed and on his way out the door after a leisurely breakfast and a little more 'bedroom time' with Ana. "Can I see you later this week?" he asks her on his way out.
"OK," Ana replies and then looks down shyly and smiles.
"I'll text you." Once Christian has left, she goes to get ready for her shift at the bookstore.
"Why do you look so happy this morning?" Nolan asks Ana suspiciously when she walks into the back room to start her shift.
"What? I don't know what you're talking about." Ana tries to deflect his accurate assessment.
"Didn't you have a date with the Adonis Christian last night?"
"Maybe… so, how's John?" Ana tries her usual distraction technique.
"Oh, no. I know what you're doing. Don't try and change the subject. So, you had a date last night, and today you are glowing and can't stop smiling. That can only mean one thing…"
"Oh my God! I'm not talking about this." Ana is getting flustered and embarrassed.
"Mmmhmm… so, how was it?" He presses her.
"OK! Fine… it was amazing. He was amazing. Nolan, I've never felt like this about anyone before."
"So, you like him enough to make this an official thing?" Nolan sits down closer to Ana.
"Yeah, I think so." she takes a deep breath and then smiles.
"Ana, I am so happy for you. You deserve a good guy who makes you happy. Has Kate met him?"
"No, she wasn't home."
"Well, for his sake, you better hope he gets the Kate stamp of approval, or he'll be very sorry."
Ana laughs at Nolan's joke - especially since it isn't much of a joke. Kate is very protective of Ana since she hasn't dated much. If any guy even attempts to wrong Ana, Kate turns into the over-protective vigilante older sister friend. Kate has been like that with Ana since they met. From the outside, it may seem that Kate is bossy and a bully but she does it out of concern for Ana. Kate knows that Ana's sweet innocence can get her hurt easily. She can't even mention her ex, Brian, without Kate freaking out.
Christian can't stop thinking about his incredible night with Ana. He's never felt this way about anyone before. Luckily, he has his monthly dinner with Elena tonight so he'll have someone who knows him to discuss his feelings. This feels like more than a sub - he wants to spend all of his time with Ana, and it's not just for the sex. Although judging by last night, it's going to be pretty damn good.
Christian walks into The Rainier Club towards their usual table. Elena is a creature of habit, and she usually doesn't deviate from what works for her. He sees her there, wearing a tight black v-neck cashmere sweater with a wool pencil skirt and stiletto heels. Her blonde hair is up in a classic French twist, and she is donning her signature red lips and nails.
"Christian, darling. You look fabulous. Have you gotten some sun?" She asks him as she stands so he can kiss her on her cheek.
"Um, no, just working as usual." He replies to her and takes his seat.
"Christian, you need to get a new sub. I know Diana didn't work out for you, but you need someone to help take away your stress. Let me help you find one - a girl who can keep up with you." She places her hand on top of his.
"Actually, I have met someone. And I think it can work." He confesses.
Elena raises her eyebrow trying to assess what he's saying. "Oh, you found a new girl? I didn't hear that. Did you get her from the club?" Elena references the club which is, in fact, a service that matches high-end subs to wealthy Doms and their exact specifications. If you want a girl with green eyes, blond hair, and size 6 ½ shoes they will find her.
"No, actually I met her at the mall. She's not in the scene, but I like her. I mean, I think I really like her and not just for the sex even though it was amazing."
"At the mall, Christian? What kind of bargain basement girl is this?"
"She's not bargain basement. Ana's sweet, beautiful, smart, and sexy as hell. I stayed at her place last night, and I slept like a baby."
"I don't know, Christian. Does she know who you are? Are you sure this Ana isn't just using you? Men like you have to be careful about women who are just after your money."
"She knows who I am and she doesn't care. She's not materialistic. Plus, all the subs I've had wanted me in part for my money. They wouldn't have signed the contracts otherwise."
"But can she satisfy your needs?"
"Yes. Last night was the best sex I have ever had."
"Best sex ever? I see…" Elena looks down at her salad and picks at it feeling an unusual sense of jealousy. After all, she taught him everything he knows; surely no woman can compare to that.
"Oh, Elena. Don't be like that. I just mean that there's more to her than sex. I think I might want to try an actual relationship with her."
"Are you sure she feels the same about you?"
"Yeah, I think so. I'm willing to give it a shot anyway."
"Well, why don't you play it cool and let her contact you first? If she does, then you know she likes you. If not, then you know where she stands."
"Do those games really work?"
"Of course, Christian. Trust me - I know a lot more about this stuff than you do."
"I have to go to the restroom. I'll be right back." Christian gets up from the table and walks towards the back of the dining room to where the bathrooms are located.
Elena looks down and notices he's left his phone on the table. She pauses, asking herself if she should do what she's thinking. Then she takes his phone, swipes it on, and searches his contacts. She finds Ana's contact information and blocks her number. That way, if Ana tries to contact him, he won't even know it. It'll be like it never happened.
They finish their dinner by discussing the salon, and its financials as well as the latest charities his mother is working for. Talking about his mother and family with Elena has always made him uncomfortable. It just makes him realize how upset his mother would be if she found out who he really is.
As they were saying their goodbyes, Elena reminds Christian of her advice. "Christian, remember, let her contact you first. Then you'll know if she feels the same about you."
"I guess you're right, Elena." He kisses her cheek.
"I always am, darling. Just remember that."
