Disclaimer: The original characters and plot are the property of E.L. James. I'm just having a lil' fun. No copyright infringement is intended.

Chapter 2 | Things Have Gotta Change

GREY

"Yes Ros, I'll go to Townsville…I'm absolutely positive Anastasia won't mind…No, she's not coming with me." I'm sick of having to explain that I'm capable of running my company. Ana doesn't give a rat's ass in a rainstorm whether I'm in Seattle or Timbuk-fucking-tu, as long as the world takes her seriously.

And before you start, I'm not trying to wallow. I made sure to keep my mouth shut and repeat her words back to her, one by fucking one, for clarification. I cannot and I willnot compete with the world.

Gotta give it to her, when she aims, she aims high.

I think I'm holding up pretty well. Neither Taylor nor Gail have had to listen to me bitch for no good reason. Sawyer declined my offer for vacation saying he knew I'd want Miss Steele safe. He's absolutely right, but I made sure it was alright with her first…

…"Hello, again, Christian." I immediately thought, what's with the fucking tude?

No worries Grey. Just, get this shit done.

"I'll make this brief Ana. Do you want to keep your personal protection during our estrangement?" I thought estrangement was a decent way to describing our situation.

"OH! I guess I should have someone with me. I hadn't thought about it. Thank you Christian."

Her agreement was easier than I thought it would be, which made me leery, "Ana, don't take this the wrong way. Is there anything I should know?"

"Why do you ask?" Then she sounded offended.

Shut up Grey. You called her about personal protection and you said it'd be brief. A brief call doesn't include an interrogation. State your point, show your appreciation and keep it movin' man.

He was right. She agreed to keep Sawyer with her, so I needed to leave well enough alone…"I apologize Ana. I wasn't asking for any particular reason. Thank you for accepting the protection. Goodnight."

"Christian, wait!" I stopped, my finger hovering over the End Call button. She sounded afraid.

My hackles were raising and I had my Superman cape in my hand, "Ana, are you ok? Is everything alright?" She was scaring me.

Finally, she whispered "I...I love you too Christian. Goodnight." Then, she was gone. I took a deep almost shuddering breath. There was a crushing sadness in my heart as I looked at my phone then softly laying it down on my desk…

…The call was out of character for you Grey. Don't tell me you're getting soft.

What-the-fuck ever asshole. Weren't you the prick who told me 'A brief call doesn't include an interrogation. State your point, show your appreciation and keep it movin man'?

Silence.

That's what the fuck I thought.

Time for me to go to the umpteenth charity event of my lifetime...alone. I swear, they all run to-fucking-gether anymore. I've been to at least a dozen of these damn things since Ana and I separated. Making an appearance never gets easier. I stopped Taylor from accompanying me this evening, much to his and Gail's surprise. No matter, I'm big enough and ugly enough to take care of myself. Anyway, he deserves to be with his woman. Who am I to cock-block?

This year Friends of Youth is holding a Halloween Gala.

Could be interesting.

Wateva!

When we found out this shindig was on Halloween, Ana was all in. She had an evening gown and a Halloween costume ready. I on the other hand made it abundantly clear there was no way, on this side of the equator, I was wearing anything other than a business suit or tux. Anyway, the only "costume" I have is my faded jeans. If the Seattle press wants a real show, I can arrive shirtless and barefoot wearing nothing more than my playroom jeans.

The place would be sold out!

I pray I don't see my family at this damn thing. I've been able to keep them at arm's length with a few phone calls and a FaceTime or two. Between, New York, Florida, various areas in the Pacific Northwest and Grey House, busy has been my first name. Soon I'll be heading off to Townsville, Australia. ECO Blue has an affiliate office in Townsville and the Townsville port has eight operational berths that handle one of the most diverse commodity bases. I'm hoping to add a local steel company to my other overseas purchases and utilize the port for export and import.

I want the steel company closed by the end of the year, but it seems like a few of the big wigs have other ideas. I don't like being strung along, so, I'll swoop in, glare at a few of the shitheads, bang my fist on a table or three, growl orders at a few directors and managers then walk away with a signed contract and my steel company. Easy.

I pull up in front of Block 41, toss my keys to the valet and declare one word, "Grey." I smile to myself because I love doing that. I guess the little things will have to make me smile, for now. The valet is no doubt a happy man. I mean, how many Audi R8 Spyder convertibles do you get to drive in your lifetime, hmm?

Let's get this shit done Grey.

I sigh and step onto the red carpet. Showtime buddy.

The first idiot I see is from the Seattle Herald, "Congratulations Mr. Grey, it's always wonderful to see someone reach out and help the community."

Nod, smile and say thank you Grey. We have to make it to the door without you turning into an utter shit-heel.

Next, some unknown ass kisser, who didn't bother doing his homework before showing up here, comes sniffing my direction,"Mr. Grey, how long have you been a supporter of the Seattle Symphony?" I struggle not to raise my brow or stare at the stupid bastard. This event isn't for the Seattle Symphony.

I'm not supposed to be an asshole? Ok. You didn't say I couldn't make this jerk look like the fool he is. I put on my biggest, brightest Hollywood smile and state clearly, for all to hear, "I've supported Friends of Youth for quite some time. Their overnight shelters, substance abuse counseling and therapeutic foster care are only a few of the programs I admire. This effort needs all of the support we can give." Dumbass.

My problem this evening is he's not the only single-minded, addle-brained shithead in this gaggle. As I turn to make my escape inside, the inquisition begins. "Mr. Grey? Mr. Grey!? Where's Miss Steele, Mr. Grey? We haven't seen you two together since sometime after her birthday. Is there trouble at home? Why have you spent so much time traveling Mr. Grey? Are your travels business related or have you found something better elsewhere? Are you looking for a new bride?"

It's that fucker from Seattle Nooze. The lummox has the nerve to look arrogant asking these appalling questions. I've worked long and hard with my PR Team on how to address the relationship questions. I'm actually surprised the subject hasn't surfaced before now. I haven't been sitting around twiddling my thumbs all this time.

Hmm. Either they're getting sloppy or sales have dropped. Are there even any dime stores around Seattle these days? Flip a coin, which one you wanna bet it is?

I don't give a fuck what it is. I just wanna get away from this good-for-nothing motherfucker. My smile changes from star studded to amenable, even grateful for his concern. I manage to lighten my voice, making me sound affable,"My fiancée is well, thank you for asking. I'll be certain to extend your best wishes to her," with that, I take my leave. Now, my fucking head hurts.

I step cautiously into the the event and breathe a sigh of relief. No Mom, no Dad, no Mia. Thank you Father in Heaven. I didn't expect to see Elliott or Miss Kavanaugh here.

It's SRO in here. I've been in Block 41 a few times. It's fitting for a Halloween affair. The place has been repurposed from a 1920's ice warehouse. It's an indoor-outdoor urban chic venue in the heart of the Belltown neighborhood. Two separate floors combine the old and new with leather-wrapped columns, massive old growth timber and exposed brick walls. There's an abundance of windows allowing stunning night sky to flood the space.

I try to go unnoticed to the VIP reserved area, but of course I run into the same old brown-nosing, networking, 'can my people call your people' begging nonsense I don't entertain. Ana would be giggling like a schoolgirl watching these suits trying to get in good with me.

The females are out in full force tonight. I have one question. Really!? I've come to the conclusion these broads had no home training. None of these heifers can honestly say they take pride in themselves. The LBDs are waaaayyy too little, the midis look more like tennis skorts without the shorts and apparently evening gowns have gone boho. You could try and chalk it up to this being a Halloween event, but there's only so much that should be allowed out of the house no matter the time of day. Brazen bust dropping is so trite men should be blind to it by now, but of course there's a geezer or twelve who's eyes are popping out at the scenery. If I were available and interested, which I'm neither, I'd need to shower with a bottle of disinfectant just to stand myself afterward.

I need Ana here. She shines her smile on a room and has everyone at her feet. No one bothers to look at or talk to me when Ana's around. She captivates hearts and minds without trying. People love Anastasia's whit, wisdom and genuine interest in any piece of information someone deigns to give her. Most of all, people love and respond to her compassion for others. She has yet to realize fear isn't respect. When you captivate someone's heart and engage their mind, people respect you. I wish I could get her to see the world does take her seriously.

My speech was short and sweet. Thank you for all you do, keep up the good work and give till it hurts folks. Finally. I'm home. I breathe a sigh of relief at not being the center of attention.

Now what?

Part of me wants to call Ana. I wanna hear about her day and tell her all the stupid shit I just went through. I wanna stay on the phone with her until I fall asleep, but I promised not to take her away from her introspection. I agreed to give her all the time and space she needs. If nothing else, I'm a man of my word. It's been a long fucking day. Time to hit the shower.

As the hot water gently streams down my back, I feel the days exertions wash away. I still miss Ana. I still want her here with me, but she doesn't seem to want me. Or is it the all encompassing lifestyle I live? The money? The cars? The security? I know she hates to have security traipsing behind her and she could give a fuck less about my money. Deep down, I know it's the control freak. The CEO, my way or the highway, big-mouth son of a bitch is too much for her. Can I change? Can I loose the things about myself that irritate her? Can I pullback, stay out of her way and let her handle her own affairs? I wanna make her dreams come true. I wanna make her happy. Anymore, it seems the only way I can make her happy is to butt the fuck out.

I wash my hair, rinse and repeat, then massage in some conditioner and groan as my forever headache eases. Once I'm squeaky clean, I wrap a towel around my waist and grab a smaller towel to dry my hair. As I step out of the en suite into our room, I'm gobsmacked. I stand in the doorway looking around the huge space as if for the first time. Straining I can distinguish, there's no sound. The life, the soul and the love that was once here is gone. I need to get away from this place. Not just Escala, not just Grey House, Seattle altogether. I finish drying my hair and go to my chest of drawers to find some boxer briefs. Thing have definitely got to change.

STEELE

You sent him to that event on his own. You were invited ages ago. He didn't spring this on you out of the blue, so don't give me that woe is me crap. You let him wander into the lion's den. Alone!

I know already! He told me what the press would do and what they would say. I guess I didn't believe him. I mean, we've been apart for a month and a half. He hasn't been sitting home twiddling his thumbs.

You mean like you have?

Shut up! He's been to several functions and there was no mention of our engagement or me. Why last night?

Seattle Times - Headline: Friends of Youth Halloween Gala. Minus One.

The enigmatic Christian Grey, seen here, attended last night's Friends of Youth Halloween Gala where he was recognized for his support of the local organization. His contributions help the nonprofit further its commitment to children, young adults and their families here in the greater Seattle area.

When asked about his fiancée, Miss Anastasia Steele, Mr. Grey simply stated, "My fiancée is well. I'll be certain to extend your best wishes to her."

No one has heard from or seen the elusive Miss Steele since the couple was spotted together a few weeks her birthday in September. Did someone get cold feet? Have the wedding bells tolled? Was there a payoff? Our readers want deets!

Seattle Nooze - Headline: Where Is Seattle's Future "First Lady"?

The Christian Trevelyn-Grey appeared unaccompanied at the Friends of Youth Halloween Gala last night, without Miss Steele. Mr. Grey gave no clear indication of her whereabouts and sidestepped a direct question regarding their engagement.

Ladies, it looks like you may still have a chance. What has Miss Steele done to loose favor in those gorgeous grey eyes? Who jilted who? We will let you know, when we find out.

I have to put these damn papers down if I intend to get any work done. I've got three manuscripts in the works and another one was just dumped in front of me. As I look at the pile of paper I sigh and remember how much I miss sparing with Christian over emails.

You could still get your daily giggles if you'd just let go and enjoy life.

What's that supposed to mean? I enjoy my life. I always have. My world didn't start the day I fell into his office, you know.

Oh yes, I know all about your fulfilling life before Christian came along. There was the fascinating work at Clayton's, I have no idea how you managed to pull yourself away from there. I recall the endearing Kavanaugh Family dinners, which usually ended with Kate screaming and you trying to calm her down because her parents are the definition of a dysfunctional marriage? And what about all of those…

…Alright! I get it. Gimme a break. I still feel it's best to take some time away from Christian. I mean, there weren't any red-carpet charity functions or soaring hang glider rides or exotic getaways, but I always had Jose and his father as well as my own father in Montesano. You make it sound as if I was Little Orphan Ana. I don't wanna simply fall in line behind The Great Christian Grey in order to be identified.

Let me ask you something.

Can I stop you?

Not really. No.

What do you want?

What's wrong about being with Christian? Don't sugarcoat anything. What's so fucking horrible about being with Christian? What has he done to make your life difficult? I'm just curious.

I never said there was anything bad, wrong or horrible about being with Christian. What I said was…

…What you said was, quote, 'I can't be in your shadow, Christian. The world won't take me seriously when it turns out I have what I have because I'm engaged or married to "The Christian Grey, CEO, Grey Enterprises Holdings, Incorporated.' Now, explain yourself because I don't believe you understand what you said. How are you in his shadow? What's he done to stop you from being Anastasia Rose Steele? You dreamed your way through college wanting to work as a publisher. Now, you've got a chance to realize your dream, even create your own publishing house.

I never asked him to buy SIP and I have absolutely no desire to own a company. I wanted the opportunity to work my way up, not step in off the street and be perched in the catbird seat.

WHAT CATBIRD SEAT?! Don't you see the mountain of birdshit in front of you?! So he gave you the keys to some castle, so what? You still have to live there, cook, clean, keep the lights on and the water running. You make it a capitol offense for him to give a damn about you or your dreams.

I'm not that bad.

OH REALLY?! You pitch a bitch about ANY and EVERY gift the man puts in your hand. Every compliment he gives you, sincerely I must say, you basically call him a liar.

I DO NOT!

YOU DO SO! Look Steele, I'm all for taking the high road, maintaining moral standards, integrity and shit like that there, you know me. You've taken this 'start from scratch' attitude way too far. Grey loves you. He respects your opinion, your point of view and he loves your free spirit. He told you so himself. You're one of the few people he listens to. What else do you want from him?

Are you finished?

Actually...

ENOUGH! Now it's MY turn to talk, so listen up YOU! I'll agree he loves me. I love him too…

…Got a funny way of showing it.

Didn't I tell you to shut up? If you wanna have this conversation, it time for you to listen. I wanna establish my career in the world of publishing, so I can have something to share with Christian. Just like he's recognized in M&As, I want to be recognized in publishing. Yes, Christian can be sweet, caring, attentive and loving. He can also be overbearing, controlling and turn a blind eye to anything he thinks is conflicting with his agenda.

You've been listening to Kate.

GRRR!

What!? You sound like her more and more all the time. If you get into a sticky situation with anything, especially Christian, the first thing you do is run to Kate. How many of her relationships failed? And how many of those failures were due to her"tenacity", as you both like to call it?

Kate's not that bad.

No, she's worse! I understand she's your friend. I even understand, better than you do, she's your protector, but it's time to grow up Steele. She's just now finding a decent relationship of her own. She didn't write the book on commitment and she's NOT the one Grey loves. You are. So please, let's stick to being Anastasia Steele and not a Katherine Kavanaugh replica.

Do I really behave that badly?

Does Grey sulk?

DAMMIT! Whose side are you on?

I'm on the side that's tired of this shit! If you'd listen to me, rather than the big-mouth, blonde barracuda things would be much easier. You want to work your way to the top, correct?

Yes.

You still have to prove yourself.

Huh? I'm at the top. What are you talking about?

At the top of what? Everyone's shitlist? All he did was give you the company. You have to do the reading, the editing and the authors you pick have to be successful. Take this opportunity for what it's worth. This is what you wanted. So I ask, again, what's so wrong about being with Christian Grey?

I don't know? My mind and feelings are scattered all over the place.

Well, add this to your emotional evaluation you told Christian you wanted the world to take you seriously, not the publishing world. How do you think he feels right now. Hmm?

FOOTNOTES

Just in case…

SRO Standing Room Only

LBD Little Black Dress

M&A Mergers and Acquisitions

~ Laters