Thank you all for the reviews you all are awesome
Still celebrating my 65th birthday early
Thank you all for the birthday wishes love you all
"This chapter is dedicated to all my readers. There are too many to name but you all know who you are. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. This story is almost at the finish line. Thank you all for staying with me through my imagination and crazy dreams
Recap 42
Well they are back in Myrtle Beach finally after three months. A lot has happened. Elliot has bought a condo in Charleston, SC because he and his crews are going to rebuild Ana's baby food plant.
Elliot built a mansion on the Northside of Myrtle Beach. He and Paula are getting very close in their relationship. Have to wait and see what happens
Christian is doing very well with his touch issues. His therapist is awesome at helping him. But he still has to have Ana there with him sometimes. They are trying to do it one on one with each family member without Ana being around
Ana has been upgraded to a walking cane and yes where I mentioned that one leg is shorter than the other and might have to wear a shoe insert. It is true because I do. I also have a shoe form that I can wear on the outside of my shoe on the sole to help steady my walking. Feels funny walking and leaning to the side. I lost a half inch when I had surgery on my hip and femur (Just letting you all know that was true)
Christian has a few more weeks of therapy and Ana bless her heart she is just now starting the hard stuff. I know I hated it
Christian sold Escala and the old house. He still has his home on the island for a getaway vacation
Gran and grandpa might be moving down to Myrtle Beach and not just for the summers
Christian and Ana haven't talked much about GEH it is still up in the air as of right now
Ana talked to Christian about what her and Paula's plans for the future were looking like. If everything continues like it is going now. They both will give up their FBI jobs
They both will retire early from the FBI. Ana doesn't want Christian worrying about her on a car chase or a dangerous mission. Especially if he is home with the kids. She said that is a no go and she will retire from all her other government jobs she has
They talked about their future and children. Yes Christian wants little mini me's running around
They talked about them both seeing Carla and what it felt like
Things got a little hot and heavy a few times with the loving couple and Christian gave Ana her first big O. She isn't ready to all the way yet and Christian knows she is still a virgin now that she told him
She told him they have a lot to talk about but she only told him it wasn't anything bad. We all know how he can be sometimes. Right now he is happy and carefree with the love of his life.
She is not keeping anything from him or hiding it on purpose. She is bound by her grandfather's will that she can not tell Christian anything yet. But she will soon.
If he loves her like he says he does which we all know he does. The amount of money she has will not matter to him. Because they love each other for themselves not the amount of money they have
They all went out to eat and helped a family who owned a BBQ restaurant and was very generous with their tips and offered to help if they wanted to expand or build another one
Well finally all the criminals have been sentenced and are being placed elsewhere with no contact with each other
Joan: I hope this answers your question about the Media finding out about them. This is how they are staying out of the news and Media
Well it's Theo and Ray talking to the Captain of the prison asking him not to show anything but movies at the moment and he agreed to do it to keep anyone from finding out about them.. farfetched but it works in my story. Besides, the culprits have no privileges for TV. They will not have access to TV's where they are going either
The only thing anyone can watch at the moment is movies until Ana and Christian comes forth and announce they are alive and well
They have so many security personnel no one dares to take their pictures. They also have had a standing Gag order from the judge after they were hurt.
Here we go Chapter 43 This is going to be a happy chapter
"I must say that it was as good this evening as it was at lunch time."
"Yes, gran it sure was. Now what is for dessert?"
"We have pie ala mode."
Christian says and Ana looks at him smiling
"Well bring it on out here I am ready for it."
"Elliot, you are always ready for dessert."
"Yeah bro I am. I am a growing boy."
"Son you haven't been a boy in years but sometimes you act like a kid."
"Yes and you all love me don't you Paula?"
"Yes we do El."
"Of course I do you big lug."
Everyone just smiled
"Would anyone besides Elliot like some pie ala mode?"
"Yes I would and I guess it is unanimous. I hear everyone saying yes behind me."
Ana goes and gets the apple pie and ice cream. Paula brings out the plates and silverware
Ana whispers in Christian's ear
"That was not nice that you just did not tell them about the cake. I am going to have to put you in time out."
Christian looks at her and busted out laughing
"Christian Grey, what did I say that was funny?"
"Um, you said you were going to put me in time out."
"Oh boy I gotta see this."
"Stay out of this bro."
"Awe come on. Ana put him in time out and tell us why you are doing it."
"I will put him in time out but he is going to tell y'all why I am doing it. If he lies he won't get to kiss for the rest of the evening. So say the correct words my love or these lips are off limits to you."
"Ana you can't do that to me. I love kissing you."
"Oh my sweet love, I know you do. That's why I am waiting for the truth from your lips."
"Anaaaa."
"You heard me no truth no lips."
"Well damn she has you there son."
Christian just looks at her and smiles and gets up and walks off
"Uh oh you made him mad now Ana."
"Oh no I didn't. I know what he is doing."
Christian walks back in with a big box and sets it on the table and opens it up
"Enjoy but please leave me a piece."
"Christian Grey, how could you? You are my grandson but I can still whip your butt."
"Oh gran it was just a joke well sorta."
"Here you go Christian, a big piece for you."
"Thank you granmomma. Yum so good. But still not as good as my girls."
"So true young man, so true. I am the one who taught her how to make it."
"Ok now everyone has cake. I have coffee brewing. Would anyone like a cup?"
"Yes but I will get it this time. You just stay seated and rest that leg. I have noticed that when you are walking you are either leaning to the side or limping."
"Yes gran, I have ordered some special inserts for my shoe and a special shoe sole for the bottom that will fit on any shoe I wear."
"I thought I told you all that my leg is a half inch shorter now due to the hip and femur surgery I had done? Daddy didn't I tell you?"
"No kiddo you haven't told anyone. I am pretty sure we would have remembered that."
"Ok well Dr. Tate and my therapist both told me since I broke my femur that sometimes depending on how bad the break is that I might need a special insert for my shoe. Look when I stand up and you can see that my foot doesn't touch the floor and when I step down on my leg I am leaning."
Ana stands up straight and her foot doesn't touch the floor. Now as she puts her leg down she is leaning to the side
"Well I be damn. So what are you going to do in the meantime until you get the inserts you need for your shoe or shoes that you wear?"
"My physical therapist is bringing me the inserts I ordered to try tomorrow and he also said that the shoe sole things were in too. So I will see how it all works out tomorrow.
I am really dreading physical therapy tomorrow. He is putting me through the ropes as he says. It won't be easy but I am at the point now where he said I need it to make my leg more flexible. Hell right now I can barely move it to the side and all the way up.
Yes therapy is helping don't get me wrong but I want it done and over with. He said I might need my cane off and on especially for walks in the stores or around here."
"Well sweet girl, the therapist knows what is best for you. So don't get all upset, you will do just fine."
"Yes I know but it is so draining at times and I have no energy for anything else."
"You know if it wasn't working you would not be feeling like this. Your therapist won't give you anything to do that you can't do or that will hurt you."
'Yes daddy I know and I start in the gym in the morning on the stationary bike to start with. From there he didn't say anything else but I know I have my work cut out for me."
"Well I believe you will do just fine. You have never quit at anything you set your mind to. Your goal is to get better right?"
"Yes daddy it is and I will give it a hundred and ten percent."
"That's my Annie."
"Thank you for the cake Christian it was good."
"You are welcome was the pie a la mode?"
"It was good too."
"I helped Ana make the pie."
He said that smiling
"Did you really son?"
"Yes grandpa I sure did."
"Why don't we take our coffee on the deck? There is a nice breeze blowing and it looks like we are going to have a beautiful sunset."
They all get up and walk outside and sit on the deck and talk some more about Ana and Christian's therapy
"Christian how is your therapy going with your touch issues son?"
"Grandpa, it is getting better but sometimes I need Ana around but I am trying to wean myself from her being there as my therapist says. Cause some days she might not be there for me to lean on."
"That is good advice, Christian. He is right, you know she might be working or you might be working and she isn't there for you when you need her to be."
"Speaking of work. What's the word on GEH? Are you going to open it back up?"
"Not sure grandpa. I know if I decide to it will be after we tell them bitches and bastards that we are alive. Right now I am just happy staying here with all of you.
I have talked to my employees and they are happy right now. I gave them all a nice severance check when all of this finally ended and I got my money back."
"Well that was very kind of you to do that son."
"Yes I figured it was time to take care of them. They did nothing wrong and it wasn't their fault that the company got shut down."
"Good for you."
"Annie, what are you planning on doing with the plant? I know Elliot is supposed to start rebuilding it. I just don't know when that is going to happen. What did you decide with all your employees?"
"Most of them are working in the Atlanta plant and some went overseas to my other plants. The ones that got hurt all got severance checks until the plant reopens."
"I will let Elliot tell you about that. He knows when his crews are coming and what all they will be doing. I just gave my input on what I wanted added to the new build."
"That was very generous of you Annie."
"Ray, all my guys will be here next week. They are finishing up a job for the courthouse annex. Ana I have already looked at the new blueprints and what she wants to make it better. I have also explained to her how to make the structure safer."
"Well that is good and do you mind if I look at the blueprints you have?"
"No, of course not. I will go and get them for you."
"No, no wait till tomorrow no rush."
"Ok well I will bring them over here when we have breakfast in the morning."
"Sounds good."
"Come on love, let's go walk on the beach. I want to take some pictures of you and I while the sun is sunsetting."
"Christian you are so romantic at times."
"Yes love I know come on. I will grab a blanket if you need to sit down and rest a little while."
"Bro there goes that blush again."
"I am not blushing El."
"Oh I am sorry but yes you are little dumpling."
"There he goes again. Ana get him out of here."
"Come on Boo, let's be away from all these people that want to make my love blush."
"Really Ana, you too?"
"Awe come on love we all love you."
"Ray, I need to talk to you later if you are going to be up for a while, it's business."
'I'll be up. I took a nap when everyone else did today. I might watch some tv. Come on over when y'all get back if i'm not here."
"Ok thanks see you later."
"What was that about?"
"Just something I need to discuss with Ray about my company is all love."
"Come on, let's go."
After they walk out on the beach and out of earshot
"Do you know what he wants to talk to you about Ray?"
"I think he is going to ask for Ana's hand."
"Was anyone talking to you El?"
"Well I was just guessing is all. But I bet that is what it is."
"I am thinking that is what he wants to talk about. Since he told Annie it was do with GEH. Doesn't that boy know she is to smart for him?"
"She told him one time about being smarter than the average bear and he didn't know what she was talking about. She told him he was going to have to watch Yogi Bear. I think she has made him do it now. But evidently he hasn't caught on yet that she is that smart."
"Well I for one am ready for an announcement I have something for my Annie Rose."
"I have something for my little dumpling."
"Gran, please stop calling him that he is not four years old."
"Watch it or I will call you your nickname. I bet Paula would like to know what it is, wouldn't you sugar?"
"Oh lordy yes gran, please tell me."
"Gran please, I am begging you not to do it in front of everyone."
"Why not? Are you embarrassed about the name I gave you when you were just a little boy?"
"Well no but please don't say it right now."
"Ok El, I will tell Paula later."
"Thank you gran, you're the best."
"Um, let me make a quick guess here you both have what you want to give Christian and Annie with you right?"
"Of course we do Ray. We wouldn't leave home without them. We knew this day was coming and it is here."
"Just checking that we don't need to send some guys to Seattle and your home granmomma to retrieve whatever you both are giving him."
"I knew it was coming before we left Seattle."
"I did too from what you told me Ray."
"Well hell they are going to get married one day."
"Yes they are and I am so happy for them. We need to start planning the wedding. Come on ladies, we have work to do?"
"Hold up, he hasn't asked me yet and I haven't given him my blessing."
"Raymond Joseph Steele, you will give that boy your blessings or I will take my shotgun and fill your butt with lead."
Elliot is on the floor rolling and the idiot just rolled all the way down to the sand
"Oh my god El, get out of the sand you idiot."
They are all laughing at him
"Granmomma I didn't say I wouldn't. You know I am going to but y'all are jumping the gun. He hasn't asked her yet. Give them time. Y'all can start but be discreet about it. They don't need to know what you all are planning to do for them."
"Yes Ray you are right but we will plan ahead for them won't we ladies? Paula you know what she likes, Gail knows her taste and Christian's. Taylor, I don't envy you and Davidson at all."
"Yes granmomma I know what she likes."
Yes Sadie I know what they like to eat but we must have the groom's cake chocolate."
"Oh lord help us what a nightmare this is going to be."
"I don't think it will. I know Ana will want a simple wedding not a lot of pomp and circumstance. She has never been big on showing what she has, She will want just family and friends."
I think Christian will agree to anything his girl wants."
"That will work for us. I don't mean to be rude about it but it will be a lot of work for security to deal with. It would be worse than Prince William and Princess Catherine of Wales's wedding. Can you imagine that?"
"We will go small. I know that is what she would want and as I said Christian will give her what she wants. I don't think he wants a big wedding either."
"They are both private people and less is better for them. Y'all know we will have to invite her FBI team. They will never forgive us if we don't."
"What about the friends they have made here and her employees. Not all but some of them she considers friends."
"Hell Paula she considers them all friends."
"I am talking about their main people like her managers and number twos of her companies. What about the important people for Christian?"
"Hun he doesn't have any but us. Well unless he wants to invite some of his employees that he was close to like his colleagues that he trusts."
"Oh my lord, yes we will have to add them to the guest list, especially the ones that came to see them in the hospital."
"We will find out if he had any close colleagues at any of his companies."
"Y'all all know you are putting the cart before the horse right?"
"Yes but we are getting prepared for the wedding of the century but it will be a small wedding of the century."
'Yes it will be."
"Gran and granmomma can we ladies see what you are giving Christian and Ana?"
"Of course you can come on over to the condo."
The ladies all get up and walk over to the condo
"Wow, they are already planning a wedding and they haven't even told us they are engaged yet. Go figure women."
Yes I agree with you Elliot."
"Hell we all know it is a matter of time."
"Yes but let's not rush this like the women are doing."
"Rush it, what do mean rush it? The women are already planning the wedding hell they have probably got Ana's gown figured out by now what she is going to wear, how her hair is going to be styled and hell forbid her makeup.
I for one don't think she needs any. She has that sun kissed face and no amount of makeup is needed for her. They are probably deciding on what we are wearing. I will tell you now I am not wearing anything pink."
"Calm down, Elliot, take a breath, all is good."
"Yeah I guess you are right grandpa but I just can't wait till they are married and I have nieces and nephews running around."
"Whoa Elliot, let them get married first then babies."
"Oh I am, I just can't wait for little ones running around. Christian will go crazy. I mean he will love any baby Ana has but he is not used to kids. I am sure he will be fine with Ana guiding him."
"Do you want kids someday Elliot? You are a big kid yourself. You would make a wonderful father just like Christian would."
"One day, yes I would love to be a father one day."
"Well it can happen you know."
"Yes but I want Ana and Christian to have babies first. I can't wait to see Christian's face when he finds out he is going to be a father and then the moment he holds that precious baby in his arms."
"I can't either."
"It is going to be monumental. He is always so worried about how he is going to be because of his childhood. But I believe he is going to do just fine after he sees that baby. I think he will have a smile for nine months, especially after he hears the baby's heartbeat. But we all know if it is a girl he is going to be super protective of her."
"Oh lord yes he will but Ana will reign him in."
"They will make wonderful parents."
In the meantime let's get back to Ana and Chrisian
"Love, are you ok? Your leg isn't bothering you is it?"
"No Boo I am fine. We can walk some more if you want to or we can head back."
"Let's just lay the blanket down here and talk for a while. No one will bother us here. You know how El can be sometimes? If he sees us. I just want time with you."
"Yes I know and I love spending time with just you."
"Well let's talk about our future. You know I love you beyond words and I want to spend the rest of my life with you."
"Yes I know and I want the same thing."
"Good we are on the same page. I am not sure if I want to start GEH back up. All my employees are happy where they are. The ones that got severance checks are happy to be at home not working."
"I know this already. We talked about it when we were still in the hospital, remember?"
"Yes I know so what about you and I flying out of here and traveling for a while? You can check on your plants overseas and I can check on the ones in London and Madrid. I know you have one in China."
"Oh Boo, that is a great idea. Let's talk to the family and security and plan this trip. We need to take our big jet. It will be better than the smaller one. We have to have security with us."
"Whatever you think will be best. Let's talk to everyone in the morning."
"I also want to invite them on some trips too. Like the ones that we stay at places for a while. I know they would all love to travel and see different places. They can take the small jet as they will not need as many guys for security as we will."
"Alright sounds good to me. Now lay that blanket out. I want to lay out here with you and look at the stars for a while."
"Yes ma'am anything you want my love."
"Come here and kiss me my love."
"Ana I will kiss you anytime you want me too and when the urge strikes me which will be often."
"I can kiss you anytime of the day or night too, my love."
"I just wish we hadn't waited so long."
"Boo it is alright. Now is the time and it is right."
"I know but just look at all the time we missed."
"Hey we are not going to dwell on what if's right?"
"Yes you are right, Let's enjoy our time now and the future we have to look forward to."
"Exactly right Boo."
"Our future will be amazing and it will be what we make it."
"You are so right my love. I can't wait to start my life with you and hopefully a family in the future but not too far into the future. I would love little ones running around. We are financially able to provide for our family and neither of us have to work again if we don't want to."
"That is true but are you sure you want to close GEH permanently?"
"Yes it was started with money I never should have had in the first place. If my mind was in the right place I would have finished college and graduated like you did a year early."
"Yes I agree with you on finishing college but you did make it happen just like you wanted it too you know? You made millionaire status and then became a billionaire within a few years. That was all you, no one else."
"Yes I know that but the money was for something I never should have taken it for. It was for my continued service to the bitch troll whether i realized it or not. She was controlling everything I did. Only my company was all me. But it started with her money and I want out of it."
"If you are sure that is what you want I will stand beside you one hundred percent my love. Yes we have enough money where we never have to worry about anything and we can have babies whenever we want them."
"I am sure gran and granmomma can't wait until you are carrying little ones."
"Oh my goodness I know they are expecting babies one day soon. It will happen but not right yet. I have an IUD so no chance of babies right now or when we make love. The IUD is good for five years and I have had it for almost four years.
With my line of work I never know when something bad could happen and I don't want an unwanted pregnancy. That is why I have it if you are wondering."
"No I was not wondering but thank you for telling me. I was hoping you were on birth control though."
"When we are both ready for that next step we will talk about it together."
"Yes we will love."
"Now when are we leaving for the wild blue yonder?"
"When I get through with physical therapy which is another few months but I will know for sure how much longer after I talk to my PT tomorrow afternoon. Then I can make travel arrangements with my pilot and his crew personnel."
"I will call Captain Gibbs in the morning to make a flight plan where we want to go."
"I would like to go to Paris first then on to Rome and how about London. Maybe we can visit Madrid and China. Not to work just for a vacation."
"Sounds lovely to me. I will tell Captain Gibbs where we want to go to start our journey."
"Anywhere in particular you want to visit love?"
"Yes I want to go to the Netherlands and Africa. I have helped some with food and medicine in Africa and would like to check on some of the people I have met there."
"Sounds interesting love. I think I might like to see how the food storage is doing in Uganda that I was supporting for years."
'Really wow, I support them too Boo."
"Small world my love. Maybe I can start that back up now with you since you are helping them."
"Yes, that would be great, they would love that. They need all the help they can get food and medicine wise just like parts of Africa that I help out."
"You know we have the same ideas and goals in mind for people that need help. What do you say that we start a cause for feeding people here and overseas. Not just food but medicines also. Have doctors travel to help people that need it. Like doctors without borders."
"Oh Boo, that is a great idea. I bet we could get and our other doctors to help out and they probably can get other doctors to volunteer. I would pay them of course. I wouldn't want them doing it without pay. Even though most of them do it that way.
But we are asking them to leave their job and travel to countries they have never been to and have no idea what they are in for."
"Yes Ana, you are right. Let's call Dr. Tate tomorrow and our other doctors and see what they think of your idea. I betcha they will jump right on it. And what do you bet they will do for nothing?"
"You may be right, we will know tomorrow."
"How about you sliding over here and putting those lips on mine for a few minutes."
"My pleasure my little love."
They looked into each other's eyes and Christian reached up and pulled her head toward his and lightly kissed her and ran his tongue over her bottom lip for her to open to him. He plunged his tongue into her mouth, tasting her and sucking on her tongue. She reciprocates by using her tongue to play with his and she swirled her tongue around his
They came up for air to breathe. They looked into each other's eyes and saw so much love for each other that it was unimaginable how two people could love each other so much and never want to be apart.
"Ana my love I have never wanted someone as much as I want you. You are my life, you are my love, you are my future and my eternity for ever more."
"Christian you are my sun, moon and stars you are my reason for living and moving forward in life. You are my other half, you are my soulmate, you are made for me. We are made for each other. We knew each other before we were born. That is what true soul mates are. I believe we have the love to change the world.
As momma said we will do great things. We have to find out what those great things are my love. But with you by my side I know we will conquer whatever is in our path."
"Yes love we will. I am sure your momma knew what she was talking about and we just have to find it which I am sure we will."
"Yes my Boo we will find what momma was talking about. It might take some time but we have all the time in the world to do great things as she said."
"Yes my love you are so right."
"Let's go walk in the waves for a bit and then head back to the house. I am getting tired."
"Want me to carry you love?"
"Oh no my leg is fine I am just ready for bed and I want you to sleep with me tonight will you?"
"Oh Ana, it would be my pleasure to sleep all night with you in my bed or yours."
"Ok now help me up and let's walk back to the house but in the water."
"Alright, love anything you want."
They walk in the waves and make their way back to the house. There is no lights on but the deck and kitchen lights
"I guess everyone decided to turn in for the night. Have we gone that long?"
"No love we weren't but I guess everyone was tired. I am going to see if Ray is still up. I will be back very soon. Wait in bed for me, Precious."
"Alright I will wait for you but don't be too long my love."
"I promise I won't be too long."
"Ok see you in a little bit love you my love."
Christian kisses her a few times and smiles at her and walks over to the condo to talk to Ray
That man thinks I am in the dark about what he is going to talk to daddy about. Come on Boo I am a genius for crying out loud and so are you. I guess I have more genius genes than he does if he hasn't figured out that I know what he is doing
Oh well time for a shower and bed
"Knock, knock."
"Come on in son."
"Granmomma you and gran still up too?"
"Yes my little dumpling we are. We know what you want to talk to Ray about and I want you to have this for my sweet girl. She is my granddaughter and you will have to talk to me at some point so why not now."
"Are you all ganging up on me?"
"Oh no love we are not. We just want to be here is all. Unless you would rather we leave. This is a special moment."
"No, I am fine with you all being here. Now what did you want to give me for Ana?"
"Why don't you have your talk with Ray first then I will give you what I have for your sweet girl."
"Ray, I love your daughter with everything in me. I told her a while ago she is my life, my love, my eternity, my ever more. I will cherish her and love her all the days of my life. I will provide for her and our family and make sure they never have to suffer or be afraid to come to me for any reason no matter how big or small it is. I will protect her with my life. I will lay my life down for her and any children we have.
I know she can protect herself and me but I would die for her and my family before I let anyone ever hurt her or them. Ray I give you my solemn vow to love, honor and be faithful to your daughter now and forever more. I will never hurt her or cause her pain; only love will prevail in our home. I am asking you Ray, will you give us your blessing so I can marry the love of my life?"
"Christian my boy I could not ask for a better man to give my blessings to. Yes you may have the honor of asking Annie to be your wife."
"Thank you sir, now we are planning on taking a long trip around the world as soon as Ana's Physical Therapist releases her. That will be another few months. Then we can travel. I will ask her to marry me while we are traveling. We just want to get away for a while. I hope you all understand?"
"Of course we do, son. Don't worry about us, we will be fine."
"Thank you now gran what is on your mind my sweet lady?"
"This is what is on my mind, little dumpling."
She shows him a beautiful three carat diamond ring pear shape with smaller diamonds all around it and the diamonds are blue like Ana's eyes
"Gran my lord that is beautiful and the diamonds are blue like Ana's eyes. Are you sure you want me to have this? It is priceless just look at this rare diamond Ray."
"Yes Christian I want you to have it and give it to our sweet girl when you propose to her. This belonged to my grandmother and I couldn't think of a better young lady wearing it with pride as I know Ana will."
"What about Elliot? I mean when he gets married shouldn't he have this ring? He is the oldest."
"Christian my love your grandfather has the ring for him to give his girl.
But this ring is meant for Ana and it will only go on her finger."
"Yes Chistian I have seen it already. It is something else but it is made for Annie. It will be perfect on her finger."
"Granmomma do I have your blessings as well to marry your granddaughter? I promise to love and cherish her forever more."
"Of course you do honey chil never doubt that. I have something for Annie Rose. I will give it to her later. She doesn't need it right now."
"Alright then I thank you all and gran I will keep this in a safe place until it is needed. Goodnight all love you all so much."
"Goodnight sweetheart we will see you all in the morning. Ana said you and her were cooking breakfast."
"Yes, well if she said I am helping then I guess I am. Who is to question Ana about her cooking. See you all in the morning say around ten am since it is after two am now."
"Yes, ten am will be fine. Goodnight love."
Christian walks out of the house with a smile on his face. After he gets off the deck he takes off running to get to the condo and in bed with his lady love
He walks in the house and locks all the doors and takes the stairs two at a time. Calm down, you are breathing too hard. She will know you ran all the way back
He takes a few deep breaths and opens the door. The only light that is bathing the bedroom is coming from the full moon outside her balcony doors. He walks over to the bed and sees Ana all curled up on her side with his t-shirt on.
Her legs are uncovered and wrapped around the sheet. He wants to untangle her but he doesn't want to wake her up.
He steps away and walks to the bathroom to take a quick shower and join Ana in bed.
He finishes his shower and grabs a towel and dries himself and wraps it around his lower half and one for his head.
He picks up his dirty clothes and makes sure the ring box is in his shorts.
He has to walk out of the bathroom without any clothes. Guess I will be more prepared next time. He walks over to the door and slowly opens it to go to his room to get some clothes for in the morning. He looks back at his sleeping love making sure he didn't wake her and steps out and closes the door.
He walks over to his room, puts her ring in the back of his t-shirt drawer. Until he can give the ring to Taylor for safe keeping. He grabs his boxers and puts them on and gets his clothes for tomorrow and walks back to Ana's room, opens the door and closes it slowly so as not to awaken her.
He turns around and sees she is awake and looking at him.
"I am sorry love I didn't mean to wake you up. I had to run to my room because I don't have clothes in here with you."
"Boo, that is alright and we will have to fix that. Tomorrow you can bring some of your clothes in here. I will make room for you love."
"Alright now slide over so I can get into bed with you. We need to get some sleep. It is my understanding that you and I are cooking breakfast in the morning. So I told gran, granmomma and Ray we would see them at ten am."
"I want to cuddle with you now, come here my love."
"Whatever you want, Precious."
She opens her arms and he lays down pulling her into his arms as he holds her close to him and he lays her head on his chest.
"Yes, just where I want to be. Nice and comfy with you beside me."
"Yes, my love this is so very comfy and I wouldn't want to be anywhere else."
"Kiss me Boo, we need to go to sleep."
Christian lays her down on her pillow and starts kissing her the tip of her nose and moving down licking her bottom lip. She opens for him and he dives in and battles with her tongue. They deepen the kiss and Ana's hand slowly travels down his chest to his abs and touches the top of his boxers.
Christian pulls away from the kiss breathing fresh air into his lungs
"Ana love as much as I want you now is not the time. Please don't get me wrong I want to make love to you with a burning passion but I want it to be perfect for you. So my sweet angel, we will wait until it is the right time. We will know when it is right."
"Yes love you are right I just got carried away a little bit."
"No love, don't be embarrassed I want you too but we will wait. I want to romance you and have a romantic setting for us. This will be a special night for both of us."
"Christian you know just what to say to make me feel better and love you even more."
He kisses her a few slow kisses and holds her close
"Goodnight my love sweet dreams."
"Goodnight my love sweet dreams to you too."
Morning comes and Ana gets up slowly so as not to awaken Christian and walks to the bathroom. Does her morning routine and walks out to get dressed.
Christian is waking up as she steps out of the closet. He just lays there taking in the beauty before him. Lordy I love that woman. She has had my heart for years and finally we are going to be together
Ana doesn't know he is awake and as she turns around putting on her shirt she sees his eyes on her.
"Good morning angel. Did you have a good night's sleep? I know I did. I slept like a baby all curled up next to you."
"Morning Boo, yes I slept very well next to the love of my life."
She walks over to kiss him but he turns his head
"Morning breath…um be right back, hold those lips right here and don't move."
"Better hurry we have to start breakfast."
"I think they will wait on us angel. After all, we are the ones cooking."
Christian walks out of the bathroom and over to Ana grabs her and kisses the bejesus out of her
"Wow what was that for?"
"Because I can and because I love you."
"Well my prince I love you too."
They walk to the elevator and go downstairs to start cooking
"What are we cooking this morning?"
"How about Bacon, sausage, eggs, pancakes and homemade hashbrowns? Sound good to you?"
"Oh yes ma'am, let's start cooking. I am hungrier now than I was before I came downstairs."
"Ok, break two dozen eggs, add cheese and milk to them. Beat them well with the whisk so they will be fluffy and soft. Then you can make the pancake batter like you did before. Remember how you mixed it?"
"We are feeding everyone this morning, even the guys."
"Yes, I think so. Is this bowl big enough?"
"Yes, it is perfect for the pancake mix. There is an unopened box in the pantry. Use it please. We are really feeding an army you know?"
"Yes ma'am I know but it is so nice to have family and friends with us. I used to be alone when I ate unless Elliot decided to stop by."
"Well love those days of eating by yourself are over."
"Yes I know and I am so thankful for that. I am so thankful for you and our loving family too."
Ana walks over and kisses and hugs him tight to her
"Come on, we need to start working on breakfast."
"Well you are the one that came over to me angel."
"Yes I know I just wanted to make you feel better."
"You did and I am alright now."
"I am going to start the bacon and sausage. Then I am going to peel the potatoes for hash browns."
"Hop to it love. Oh, would you like a cup of coffee? It's ready if you do?"
"Yes please thank you."
They finally get breakfast on the table in between kisses here and there and hugs
"Alright good morning everyone. Breakfast is served help yourself. Did anyone tell Dav and the guys it was ready?"
"Well someone did, here they come."
"Fill your plates y'all there is plenty and more in the kitchen."
"You and Christian have been busy, Annie?"
"Yes we have and now I am going to sit down and eat. Come on y'all have a seat."
Everyone ate a big breakfast and now just sitting around talking about life
"Alright y'all, Christian and I would like to talk to you all. Would you like to talk here or outside? It is a gorgeous morning."
"Let's talk on the deck, Annie Rose. It is a beautiful day."
"Dav, I need you, Nick and Sawyer to hang around with us for a little while?"
"Ok what's going on?"
"Christian and I have decided that after my therapy is finished that we want to travel around the world and see places we have never been. Not sure how long we will be gone but we will give you all updates."
"From time to time we want you all to come visit wherever we will be staying for a longer period of time. We gotta have family time too."
"Ok now Taylor and Sawyer are your CPO's. Dav and Nick are my CPO's. These guys here are the main CPOs for security right?"
"Yes Ana they are. We will need more and I will need plenty of time to get security checks on everyone."
"No you won't. I have my guys and they have all been vetted and know the way I operate. They have been with me for years. I know Christian has been with you all for years. So we don't need to vet any."
"What about when you go out? You will need security?"
"Yes we will and we will have plenty with us and enough to be here for the family and when they are here or go out. You do not realize Taylor that I have a small army with me.
I am sure Christian has more guys than I don't know about. Right love?"
"Wow I didn't know you had that many Ana. Ray has been holding out on me."
"Yes love there are quite a few you haven't met like I haven't met all of your security guys."
"Taylor, I have guys back in Seattle. I have guys in Atlanta and overseas at my two homes and for my plants there. All security guys are vetted by yours truly and nothing gets passed my Deep Diving Stealth Mode."
"Would you be kind enough to give me their names and where they are located? I will give you or Dav all my security guys' names and information."
"Yes Dav will sit down with you and y'all can compare names and all. Now I said it won't be for another couple months at least."
"Ok thank you both for letting us know."
"You are more than welcome. Now guys y'all can leave thank you for hanging around for a little while. Talk to the guys and let them know what we all talked about. I don't want to keep them in the dark. They need to know what we are planning.
That way if any of them have other obligations we will know ahead of time. They all report to you early enough if they need time off don't they Dav?"
"Yes Ana they do and we will inform them all of our talk. Thank you and C for another delicious breakfast."
With that said they get up and leave
"Now where have you both decided to go?"
"We haven't made any definite plans yet. When we decide where we are going first we will let you all know,"
"Now if you all will excuse me I have to get ready for my physical therapy session in the gym with T.J. the extremists.
I am sure he is going to bump up my session. He said to be prepared for a workout."
"I'll be back down in a few minutes after I change clothes. Christian are you coming down to the gym with me?"
"I will be down in a little while. I want to talk to everyone for a little while, So you just mosey on missy my love."
"Ok I can see when I am not wanted love you."
"Love you angel. Now go."
Ana walks over to the elevator and pushes the button for it to open.
"So nice not having to wait for it to come twenty floors."
They all agree and laugh
Christian waits for the elevator door to close and start moving
"Elliot, go stand at the bottom of the stairs and make sure she doesn't eavesdrop. I know how she is. She doesn't like surprises."
"Oh how well we all know that. Now come to think of it you don't either."
"Yeah well this is about her not me."
"Did she go to her room?"
"No, she hasn't stepped out of the elevator yet."
"Why? Where is she then?"
"Well your guess is as good as mine bro."
"She used to do this when we would try to plan something at your house granmomma. Ray you remember her saying she was going outside or somewhere?
Then we would look for her but we couldn't find her so we assumed she was outside. Somehow she would know what we planned for her. She is a sneaky monkey.
She never told us where she was but she knew every time what was planned for her."
"Paula check the elevator. I'll check the one up here and her room."
"Nope not here El."
"Well hell she isn't in here or her room."
"The little minx never got on the elevator. Did anyone see her get in?"
"No, I wasn't looking at her."
Everyone else said no they didn't see her
Ray waves his hands and gets their attention and whispers
"Be very quiet. She is in the living room behind the couch. Look, I see her foot on the floor. Don't say a word, be quiet as a mouse and she will give up. But we won't say anything until she goes to the gym."
They sat there and drink their coffee and wait and watch for her to come out and go to the elevator
Christian texts El to come back outside
El walks out the door and sits down with everyone else
They wait and wait
"She can't wait much longer, she has to change and go to the gym."
They are all drinking their coffee and gran sees her from the corner of her eye
"Would you look at that? She thinks she is so smart."
She watch as she crawls out from behind the couch and peaks around and to see if anyone is looking in the living room
She crawls over behind the lounger and peaks again. Then continues on the elevator she reaches up and pushes the button and crawls into the elevator and the doors close. She breathes a sigh of relief
"Come on y'all hurry let's meet her at the top?"
They all run up the stairs and are standing there when the elevator doors open
"Wow something must be wrong with this thing El? I have been waiting here like forever for the doors to open."
"You are so busted my love."
Christian walks into the elevator and picks her up over his shoulder and carries her to her room but before he opens the door
"We will be right down."
They all walk off laughing
"Annie Rose, what am I going to do with you?"
"Well granmomma you gonna love me like I love you."
Ana says laughing upside down on Christian's shoulder
"Well sugar that goes without saying cause I do love you, you sneaky little monkey."
"Well you all know I hate surprises."
"Oh yes love we certainly do."
With that said Christian turns and walks to Ana's room
He shuts the door behind them and walks to the bed and slides her down his body….damn bad idea…now is not the time for this
"That was fun, you know?"
"I bet it was but see I am smart too. I knew you would try something after Paula told us what you used to do at granmomma's when they tried to surprise you."
"Oh she did she? Well, no Christmas present for her."
"Oh come on love be nice. I am glad she did because you are not going to find out what I have planned for you."
"Well we shall see my love we shall see."
"You think you're funny don't you?"
"Of course I am smart too."
"I love you angel, now kiss me and get dressed for the gym."
"I love you too, my sweet man."
Ana reaches up and drags his mouth down to hers. She kisses him like there is no time to waste. She needs his lips on hers. She plunges her tongue between his lips and sucks on his tongue. She plunders his mouth with her tongue and deepens the kisses till they are both dizzy with passion
"Damn Ana. I have to go out there with this…he points down at his shorts."
"Think of Elliot in a pink bikini that should do it."
She starts laughing and Christian joins her
"Yeah that worked, now I have to leave so you can change or I will never walk out that door. We will Ray and granmomma up here beating the door in."
"Now that is too funny. Get out of here I love you."
Christian walks out without looking back cause if he does he will make good on his promise to stay
Ana fans herself and changes into a pair of loose shorts and a t-shirt and puts on a pair of tennis shoes
She walks out the door and to the elevator and goes downstairs to the gym
"I'll be back later y'all."
"We will be here Annie, have a good session. Give your best."
"I'll be down before you finish your session love."
"Ok see you later love you."
Ana walks out the door and over to door that goes down to the gym
"Dang she is finally gone this time."
"Don't count on it."
"What did I say?"
"Damn she is playing with us now. I guess I am going to have to carry her down those stairs to the gym. El you need to put an elevator in the gym too."
"Yes I know and I am going too. She already gave me my orders on what she wants."
Christian gets up and starts toward her. She sees him and turns and heads back in the door for the gym smiling at him and hears what granmomma said
"I am going to spank your butt for that little lady."
"Granmomma you gotta catch her first."
"Naw I don't I have you and El for that. Well Paula can out run both of you."
Ana is at laughing at them
"Granmomma is right but I will be good."
She says as she shuts the door to the gym
"She is gone this time. Would anyone like something to drink?"
"How about some water for everyone. I think we have had enough coffee for now. I know my eyeballs are floating after three cups."
"Gran you sound like granmomma now."
"Well it is true El.'
"Here you all go."
"Thank you Gail and Paula."
"Ok Christian what are we planning and what is it for?"
"I want to take Ana to Miami for her birthday, which will be coming up one week before we are planning our trip. She will find out for sure today when T.J. is going to be releasing her from therapy."
"Ok is it going to be just you two or the whole family? Bro we need to know these things on how to plan it."
"I am taking her that Monday before her birthday. Her birthday is Friday September the eleventh. So I want to spend a few days with just me and her. That way she won't catch on what I am doing hopefully.I want you all to come down Thursday but don't see her. I am going to have a party for her Friday night.
That is where you come in Paula. I need for you to ask some of her FBI friends to come down. I will take care of the reservations and their travel. They will be flying in my jet. Everyone will be staying until the following Friday. Ana and I will fly out Saturday morning."
"That is if they can all stay, if not I will make sure they all get back to Seattle."
"Now do you all think this can be done this soon?"
"Oh hell yeah it can. Miami here we come."
"Calm down El, it's not your birthday."
"Well I can get excited for Miami. I have never been. So we are staying all week with y'all?"
"Yes El all week. You and y'all."
"Taylor, give Dav a call and ask him to meet us for a few minutes if he has time?"
"I already texted him and he is on his way now."
"What's going on now y'all?"
"Planning a surprise birthday party for Ana. I want to take her to Miami. Her birthday is just one week before we fly out for our trip. Just her and I from Monday to Thursday then the family will be down Thursday but won't see us until Friday at her birthday party.
Paula is going to call her FBI friends and invite them down if they can come. I am going to take care of the flight for them in my jet. I am also taking care of all the reservations for everyone.
So we will have plenty of time to get this set up. I just need you and Taylor to sort out security for everyone. I know the FBI bunch won't need it but for everyone else."
"Well let me ask you how you are going to keep this from Ms. Nosey Bee?"
"Oh I'll tell her we are going to spend some time in Miami before we leave for our trip. Hopefully she won't catch on."
"So are we good? We will be leaving on Monday which is September the seventh. You all are flying down Thursday on the tenth and you are all staying until the following Friday which is the eighteenth. Ana and I are flying out on the nineteenth which is on a Saturday
Now the family will fly down on Thursday the tenth and the FBI crew will fly in Thursday and leave on Sunday unless they want to stay longer. The jet will be at their disposal. How does that sound to everyone? How does that sound to you and Taylor?"
"Works for me, how about you all?"
"They all say it's fine. Let's make it happen."
"Alright mums the word. Taylor you can get with my pilot and his crew. Dav I know you will talk to Captain Gibbs and the pilot Ana has in Seattle. I am pretty sure we will probably need both jets. What do you two think?"
"Yes sir, that works for us. Now depending on how many comes will determine on how many jets we will need. I know Ana's jet can carry fourteen passengers, the captain, co pilot and two airline personnel. How big is your jet C and how many can it carry with the crew?"
"Mine can carry twelve and the crew. I would say we could send the big jet but that is the one we are taking on our trip. She will think something is up."
"We will charter a private jet for the family to fly down to Miami on the tenth."
"Yes, that will work. Paula, get with us when you have a set number of people that will be coming, make sure to RSVP just to make sure they will be here."
"Alright I will start this week and if they have any emergencies they can let me know."
"Does that conclude our business for now about the party?"
"Yes, Christian it does."
Christian stands up claps his hands
"Man, I feel good. Ready to take me on in the ring Dav? I want to see how Ana is doing. She is probably giving T.J. hell."
"Sure, go change and I will wait on you. Anyone else wanna come down?"
"Yeah come on Elliot let me see what you got in the ring."
"You are not getting in the ring with me, little dove?"
"Why not afraid I will make you look bad?"
"Um well yeah. I admit it, you and Ana scare me."
Oh my poor Pookie, we sure would scare you in the ring. There is no reason to lie about it. Maybe you could get in the ring with one of the other guys down there."
"Alright Dav let's go."
"Taylor, is everything good?"
"Oh yeah Christian, all is good. Nothing to worry about I promise. Go beat up Dav."
They both laugh and walk out the door
"Now they are gone, is there anything wrong Jason?'
"Oh no sir nothing is wrong. I am just trying to decide the best hotel for all of us that has a ballroom. I do believe that is where Christian would like to have the party for Ana don't you think?"
"Yes with everyone that will be there."
"Um, you forgot one very important person, well two if the first lady comes."
"Oh damn the President and his wife. Hell he will skin us alive if we don't invite them."
"Ok Paula you need to find out where the President is staying if he will tell you. But probably not. I need all of us too close to each other."
"Uh, Ray, you will never know where the President is staying. No one will unless he wants them to know."
"Oh wait a damn minute Ana owns a hotel and the bottom is a casino in Miami. We can close it down for the party and reopen it afterwards. I forgot about that."
"Why in the hell would she own a casino?"
"It's a tax right off. She had it built four years ago but it has only been open for two years. It was just supposed to be a hotel but when they passed that casinos could be there she added it downstairs and it is huge. I don't know why she waited so long to open it."
"What is the name of the hotel Paula?"
"Gran Rose."
"Oh I love the name."
"Yes granmomma she named it after you and gran."
"Well I be doggone ain't that special?"
"Now, now don't you two start crying."
"How is business doing down there?"
"Good as far as I know."
"Grandpa, did you know about this?"
"Yes Ray and I knew about it and she is making a killing with it. But all the money is going to a charity she set up for addicted mothers with children. She also has two halfway houses, one there and one in Jacksonville, Florida. Please let her tell Christian first before you all say something. He needs to know all this first.
That is one of the reason's she wants to take this trip so she can tell him all about her grandfather's will, not to mention her uncles and how wealthy she is."
"Don't ask the only ones that know are Ray and I because her grandfather was his father and her uncle was Ray's brother and me because I am her personal and business attorney.
This is going to be startling to Christian but I know he loves her more than enough to handle any amount of money that young lady has."
"No,no,no we can not use the hotel. Christian doesn't know about it yet. This is something Annie Rose has to tell him.
Paula find a five star hotel that has a ballroom that we can book for our stay. Make sure you get all the RSVP's back that are coming. We may need more than one hotel depending on the guest."
"Yes ma'am I will get right on. Come on Elliot I will need more eyes. Gail, would you mind helping too?"
"Of course I will be glad to help."
"Alright that is done and taken care of finally. Now we just have to make reservations and find out how many are coming."
"Theo let's take a walk down to the gym and see how Annie is doing and if Christian got is butt kicked. I really doubt it cause of his back. I know Dav will go easy on him."
"How do you think our boy is going to handle all of her wealth, Ray?"
"I think if she explains it to him the way he will understand it he will be alright. He has to know it is a will and what is in that will has to be honored. That is why she couldn't tell him before."
"So true but you know how he can be. I think we need to talk to him before he proposes to her. She needs to tell him first."
"Yes and he loves her deeply enough that the amount of money she has won't affect him and he will still propose to her while they are away."
"I know he will he loves her too much, not too."
"Come on, let's go."
"Lead the way."
They walk down the stairs to the gym both of them in their own thoughts
Theo: I know that grandson of my loves that little girl more than words can say. Ray told me what he said when he asked for her hand. I hope he can accept that Ana is a very wealthy woman and she would give it all away if she could and not bat an eye doing it.
I hope he will understand why she hasn't already told him. But that old man made damn sure no one would know until Ana found the right one that she will spend the rest of her life with.
Hell they never have to worry about money. They are financially able to do whatever they want to do. They have the means and beyond to have a family.
I believe that whatever Ana's mother told both of them upstairs will come together for them. They will do great things whatever those things might be.
She also said children so I know they will have a family and live a long and happy life together. They need each other. They are nothing without the other.
Ray: I know that boy loves my Annie beyond words. The way he spoke to me last night about how much he loved and what she meant to him. I just hope he can accept this monumental windfall that is fixin to fall into his lap.
I am like Theo, I believe he will be stunned but with the love they have for each other they will be alright. This is going to be huge for him to accept and understand. Annie was hiding anything on purpose from him. She was bound by my father's and uncle's will that she couldn't speak of it until she found the love of her life.
Yes we need to talk to him before he proposes to her. He needs to understand that what she is going to tell him wasn't meant to keep him or anyone in the dark. Hell gran and granmomma don't know about the will and what Annie is going through.
Yes she is trying to decide how to sit him down and tell him everything. Theo and I asked if she wanted us there and she said.."I need to do this on my own."
I have one very smart girl and I know Christian will listen with an open mind. It is going to be tough but I believe in my heart he will not go off the deep end. That is what Theo and I want to talk to him about. Keeping an open mind. If he loves her as he says he will still propose and the money won't matter.
Next thing will be the prenuptial agreement. I hate that too but it will have to be done with Theo and I present. That will be done after they come home for their traveling
They have reached the gym now and look at each other
They know what the other was thinking about
"When do you want to steal Christian away for a little while Ray?"
"Whenever we can grab and take a walk. maybe we could get him to come over to the condo for a bit."
"Yeah I will tell him we just need to talk to him about some things to do with the party."
"Yes, that will work. Let's see what's going down here and if Annie has killed T.J. yet?"
They walk further into the gym laughing softly when they see Ana pointing her finger at her Physical Therapist
"Hey young lady, you point your finger in anyone's face."
"Yes daddy I know but T.J. is trying to kill me with these new exercise's he has me trying. He knows I can do some of them but no the man pushes me to do them."
"Are you a mouse or a woman baby girl? Where did that woman go that has badass people running from her? I think she left the building, don't you Ray?"
She just stands there looking at both of them
"Seems like that to me too. Come on Annie try it and it will get better. You know you can do it, it will just take time for you to get in the groove of it."
"T.J. Come on I am not going to be called a mouse when I can take on any of my security in that damn ring over there. Just bear with me ok?"
Ray and Theo just smile behind their hands
"Yeah you two I know what you are doing and it worked ok."
Ana walks over to the hand rails and tries to stand on a ball that has metal sides sticking out for her to put each foot on and learn to balance herself from side to side. They do for about ten minutes until T.J. sees she is getting aggregated cause she can't balance herself for more than a few seconds.(This took some time to do it right )
He has her go over a workout table that is tilted and she lays on and pushes the weight down with both legs to build her strength up in her hurt leg. (This is tough I know)
Now he has her walking up and down steps. Using her good leg first so she doesn't have to put too much pressure on her bad leg and not bend it so much
Finally one more exercise laying on the table and lifting her legs with weights on them. Each time he adds a little more weight.
"Ok T.J. that's enough weight for today."
"You got it Ms. Ana. Do ten more leg lifts and you are done for the session. I will see you next week and I want you in the meantime to use these weights. I am leaving with you today three times a day for ten minutes."
"Ok thank you T.J. and I am sorry I am being a pain today."
"That's ok Ana I have had worse ones than you."
"T.J. How much longer do I have to do physical therapy? Christian and I want to travel in a few months. You mentioned the other day, probably a few months right?"
"Yes ma'am I believe you will be finished in a few months, probably around the end of August."
"That is perfect thank you. Now I can start making plans."
"You have to do your exercises here and at home, don't forget that. If you don't do them, it will set you back."
"I have those inserts for your shoe. All you do is put the high part in the back. I have them made to fit your shoes. I also have this piece here that all you have to do is put it on the sole of any shoe you wear. It isn't noticeable like I told you last week.
Take off your shoe and let me show you how to put in your shoe for the best comfort."
"It will take a little while to get used to it but I believe you will do just fine in a few days with it.
This piece here will go on the bottom of your heel and below your arch of your foot on the shoe you are wearing. You can use this or just use the insert whichever is more comfortable for you."
"Thank you T.J. I will try it both ways. And I will know if I don't do my exercises I will fall behind and I don't want to do that."
"Yes she will." Christian walks up behind her
"Christian, nice to see you. How are you doing? I am sure you will make sure she does."
"Good to see you as well. I am doing a lot better. My therapist said I should be done before much longer. My leg is doing really well. I can move it almost like I used to. It is not as stiff it was. My back I have no problem with at all. Thanks for asking.
Yes I will make sure she does them as I am sure these two men right here will make sure she follows through not to mention our grandmothers."
They all laugh at that
"Don't worry Boo, I will follow through as T.J. asked me to do. I want to get away for a while with you. So I will push a little harder not much though."
"Yeah I fixin to say that Ana. Don't push too much, you will find yourself back at stage one again."
"Yes I know and thank you T.J. I will see you next week."
"Next week Ana."
"Gentlemen excuse me but I am going to go to the house and take a long relaxing bath. See you all later. Boo will you walk me up the stairs?"
"Of course love come on. See you all later."
They walk out of the gym talking to each other about their day
Theo and Ray follow a few minutes later
They walk in the house and gran and granmomma are sitting in the living room talking and drinking coffee
"Hello my Annie Rose, how was your session? You look tired."
"It was tea total hell y'all that man is trying to kill me. Making me do exercises I have never heard of and never thought to do."
"Was it that bad, really sweet girl?"
"Yes and no. T.J. wanted me to do an exercise where he has this ball like thing with a metal piece sticking out on each side. It is to help my balance and strengthen my leg but I don't like it. It is hard to control and he wants me to let go of the hand rails. I asked him if he was crazy. He just looked me dead in the eyes and said a flat out NO. Now let's work on it."
"He is just helping you, he knows what you can do and can't do right now. But you have to push yourself some to get better. A little hard work has never bothered you before and you have a goal to work toward right? Going on a trip around the world."
"Yes granmomma I know and I will. Do you know grandpa asked me if I was a mouse? Cause I was complaining about the exercises. I just looked at him and told him I could take any of my guys in that ring. Then I said come on T.J. and then started my exercises, I knew he was messing with me."
"Gran and granmomma she did really good on everything else. We have to make sure she keeps up the exercises she has to do at home."
"We will and I am sure she will. As she said she has a goal and that is to get on that jet and fly away with you."
"I am looking forward to that too."
"Ok y'all I am going to take a long relaxing bath and ease my poor muscles that I didn't know I had. Love you all, see you in a little while Boo."
"We love you too, sweet girl."
"Love you angel."
Ana walks over to the elevator and gets in and goes upstairs to her room to have a long relaxing bath
Downstairs Ray and Theo grab Christian and take him next door so they won't be disturbed.
They don't say a word until they are inside the house
"Christian my boy we need to talk to you before you propose to our girl."
He looks at them like they have grown three heads each
"What, why do you both need to talk to me? Is there something wrong with Ana that I don't know about?"
"No son, nothing like that but you don't know about what we are going to try to explain a few things to you. We can't come out and tell you anything specific that will be left up to Annie to tell you."
"Ok you two stop beating around the bush and tell me what you can please. You are worrying me here and you both know I don't like to worry, especially about Ana."
"Christian sit down, this is going to take a while."
Christian looks at their faces and wants to argue but sits down and waits for them to speak
"Alright Christian, now listen to us and stay quiet for a little while. Can you do that?"
"Yes, grandpa I can as long as you tell me Ana is alright and nothing is wrong with her."
"Christian, Ana is fine, not sick or anything ok."
"Ok you both have the floor and my undivided attention."
"This isn't going to be easy to say but just listen and try to read between the lines alright?"
"Yes sir."
"Ray, do you want to start?"
"Yes I think it will be best coming from me and I might need you to step in to help."
"Christian, Ana has some very serious things to talk over with you while y'all are on your trip. She needs for you to listen with your heart and understand what she is saying and what you mean to her.
If you love her as much as you told me you did last night. Then there will be nothing to worry about. Understand what she is going to tell you is killing her but she has to wait until the right moment. I know I am not explaining myself well enough but I can't give away the details. You know my father and brother died and there is only Ana and I left in the family right?"
"Yes sir Ana told me this a while back."
"Ok good now my father and brother left Ana and I everything and that is all I can say right now. I am praying to God and my dearly departed wife in heaven that you will keep an open mind when she talks to you about all of this."
"Ok."
"Christian I am her and Ray's attorney just like I am yours. There is one part she can't speak about without her attorney and father present. We will go over all that when you both return whenever that will be. But just know if you have questions that Ana can't answer we are a phone call away. Or you both can come on and we can talk about everything."
"Ok I will listen with my heart and keep an open mind. Yes I love that woman more and more everyday. I just can't put into words how much she means to me and what all she has done for me. Not talking about the money or any of that. Just what she has done for me as a man. That little woman loves me as much if not more than I could ever hope to love her. She is everything to me. You both know this.
Thank you both for talking to me because I was going to ask her to marry me the first time we stopped traveling wherever that was going to be. I will never not listen to her and I will always love her forever more."
"Alright now as long as we got that out of the way how about all of us going eat crab legs tonight and check on the brothers and see how they are doing?"
"Sounds good to me, how about you Ray?"
"Count me in, I can't wait to see you and Annie eating all those crab legs again."
"Come on, let's go tell everyone."
They all walk out of the house and back over to Ana's
Well folks that's all for now. I know, I know I have one more chapter and this story will be finished. I just want to thank you all again, and again for staying with me through this amazing journey in my life where I can enjoy writing and interacting with you all. You all mean so much to me and I deeply appreciate each and everyone of you. Thank you again from the bottom of my heart. I have to stop. I am fixin to cry.. Love you all