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 4 | Flying Solo

GREY

"Dammit!" How the fuck did I miss her call? I never miss a call, especially not Ana's. I got her message from last night, or early this morning rather depending on how you look at it. I haven't called her back yet because I had a morning meeting and she's not an early riser. Her voice sounded like an angel calling to me.

"Hi Christian. I apologize for calling at this hour. I wanted to hear your voice and tell you I miss you. Give me a call when you get time. I love you Christian."

"Mr. Grey, I apologize sir. I stepped away from my desk for a brief moment to finish preparing for your trip. Your telephone must have rung while I was away. I found you as quickly as I could. I apologize sir." Andrea's as pale as a ghost and shaking. Damn. Am I THAT big of an ass?

Do you want the short answer or should I expound on your inquiry?

Neither. I know what type of a son of a bitch I am, thank you very much for your two cents.

Not a problem. Glad to help.

I gotta stop talking to myself.

"Andrea, it's not your fault. The call was from early in the morning. I should've caught the message myself. Please continue compiling the data. It's what I asked you to do. I've to leave for Taipei Friday morning and I need the information. Thank you." I'm sure to soften my gaze when I look at her. Andrea's mouth dropped open and she's looking at me like I'm standing in front of her naked with two heads. I wanna laugh.

HA!I LOVE this new look everyone gets when you behave like a regular human being, rather than a raving lunatic.

So do I.

"Is there a problem Andrea?" My question snaps her out of her stupor. I chuckle and her face turns pink.

"No sir." She shakes her head for emphasis. "I've got more information to compile." I nod signaling she's free to leave. She actually backs out of the room like it's unsafe to turnaround. I smile and laugh a little more at her discomfort, then shake my head and continue with my plans.

Meetings, meetings and more meetings, I've been on the run for hours. I called Ana, but she was in a meeting herself. I told Hanna to let her know I called and that I'll be leaving for Taiwan on business today. Hanna's always so fucking chipper. I just hope she gets the message to Ana before I leave.

Only time will tell. You called, that's the important thing. I know you wanted to hear her voice, but all good things, you know.

Yeah, I know.

Most importantly, you're giving her the time and space she said she wanted. Every cloud man and remember, no strong-arming her from promised time and space, no matter how bad it she calls be cordial at least and pour your heart out to her at she tells you she wants to see you, offer to come home ASAP or offer to fly her to 's that easy.

Easier said my friend.

Before I leave Grey House, I try to reach Ana, again. The fuck with Hanna, I'll leave a voicemail. "Hey baby. I'm sorry I didn't get to speak with you directly. I'm going overseas tomorrow morning. I dunno how long I'll be away. You're more than welcome to join me any time you like. Please remember, not a second goes by without me thinking about you. I'll call you once I get settled. I'll probably leave a message due to the time difference. I'll miss you. Bye baby." Sadly, I end the call. I wanna get outta here. I'm not upset about leaving Seattle because this place is wearing me down.

Friday morning, 4AM, I board my jet. In greeted by Steven, the pilot, and an already flustered Natasha, the flight attendant. "Good morning Mr. Grey. We'll be taking off in about fifteen minutes." Steven tells me. I simply nod and go to the master cabin. I'll try to reach Ana one last time before I depart. She's not a morning person, so 4 AM is ridiculous for her, but I have to try. Even if I can't speak to her directly, I'll have the sound of her angelic voice in my head. I hold my breath while I wait for her voicemail to pick up.

"Hello, Christian!" Finally. I smile to myself because she sounds like a kid on Christmas morning, getting a call from Santa himself.

"Hey baby. How are you?" I pour as much love into the words as I can. Up kinda early, huh?" She giggles sleepily. My mood begins to lighten. "You don't know how much I love hearing your voice." It'd be even better if she were here next to me.

"I guess I'm ok." She guesses. What's that supposed to mean? Sawyer hasn't said anything about her being sick. Now I'm worried. I can't leave her if she is ill.

"Are you sick baby? Is there anything I can do for you? I can call Mom to come and check on you." Even I can hear the panic in my voice.

"No, that's not necessary Christian. I'm fine, really. Where are you? What are you doing?" Hmm, either she didn't listen to her messages, Hanna never told her I called or she is being obtuse.

Down killer, she's a busy lady, at least she called you back. Pick your battles shithead.

"Nothing really, just going on a business trip."

You didn't mention where you're going.

I did so. It's in the voicemail and anyway, I don't believe she'll care if I'm out of the country or in outer space.

"Business trip? Where are you going?" She sounds odd, nervousness maybe.

"I'm going to Taiwan. The deal needs a little shove in the right direction." I'm trying to keep the call light, like it's no big deal, which isn't the case, at least for me.

"Why are you going? Where's Ros? Can't she go in your place? Isn't that what she does?"

"It is my company baby, they've seen Ros. Now, it's time for me to step in. They need to see me to take the deal seriously. I'm the one who finalizes negotiations and signs the agreement. Anastasia, this'll be good for us."

You don't believe that for one second.

I ignore him. I've gotta get through this call. "My being away will give you the space you want. All I ask is that you keep Sawyer with you. He's temporary head of Personal Security now."

"Sawyer? Where's Taylor? Isn't he with you? Being out of the country won't stop him from doing his job. His phone is glued to his fingers just like yours." She's always saying Taylor's hours are too long and he should have time to spend with Gail. Now, he has it.

"Taylor and Gail are going on vacation. We assigned Ryan and Reynolds to cover Grey House and Escala. This way, you don't have to worry about any intrusion on your privacy. Sawyer will only report to Taylor if there's a danger or you succumb to a severe illness, nothing more."

I've gotta admit Grey, you planned this well. I'm proud of you.

I'd smile, if my heart didn't hurt so much.

"WHAT! CHRISTIAN, ARE YOU CRAZY?!" I wasn't expecting that reaction. So much for her angelic voice. I didn't get the phone away from my ear at all. DAMMIT!

What the fuck is her problem? We're giving her time and space, ample amounts of space if you ask me.

Ignoring him, again, I ask, "What's wrong Ana? I'm giving you space baby. Please, stay with Sawyer and you'll be fine." I hope. "I told Mom and Mia not to bother you about dinners or shopping trips because you're busy with work. They asked me about wedding preparations and I told them there was no hurry. I haven't told anyone we're not together. You can tell them if you like." I believe that's everything. I run my hand through my hair and quickly recall my mental task list to be sure I didn't forget to tell someone to leave Anastasia alone.

I think you got them all Grey. Oh, hey, what about the publishing house? Are you going to let her know Ros is overseeing the project?

No. Like I told Ros, we'll handle it the same as any other GEH acquisition. There were no problems with negotiations and the sale was finalized ages ago. Ros will meet with Roach and the editors to tell them she's in charge and confirm the rumor about SIP being a GEH subsidiary. Roach will be ecstatic to know he won't have to see or deal with me anymore, at least not directly. Anastasia can hear the news straight from Ros, then she won't question its validity.

"If there's something I missed, something you need or anything you want, please tell Sawyer and he'll take care of it. I'll stay as far away as I can." I whisper, almost to myself. This is killing me. She doesn't know how difficult this is for me.

"Ok Christian, if that's what you want." She sounds so small and faint-hearted. What I want is immaterial now baby.

Always keep this in the forefront of your mind Grey. 'I'm a simple girl Christian, you knew that when you met me. I've always been very self-sufficient, I don't want your money or to be praised because of my relationship with you. You of all people should understand. I want to bring something to the table other than my student loans. I can't be in your shadow Christian. The world won't take me seriously when it turns out that I have what I have because I'm engaged or married to the Christian Grey, CEO, Grey Enterprise Holding, Incorporated.'

I don't want her to feel bad. I simply don't know what else to do. I've told her repeatedly, she has all of the power. I'm nothing without her. She's my lifeline. I can't pretend I'm happy this way, but I also can't stand being so close and yet so far from her. So, for now, I'm finished with Seattle.

"No baby, this isn't what I want at all. I want us to be married and, if nothing else, leaving together, but this isn't about me. You asked me for time and space to decide what you want and to reach your goals. Ultimately, this will make you happy. Please know, I'll give you whatever your heart desires, including my absence." I think I managed to get the words out without choking. I'm not really sure. I know for certain I heard a sniffle on the other end of the line.

Come on Grey, get the fuck off the phone. Now it sounds like we have to justify giving the girl what she said she wanted in the first place?

"I guess when you put it like that, I understand your point of view." She wants this. She's said the words to me over and over again. Now, it's time for me to listen.

"Look Ana, Steven's almost ready to take off, so I have to go. I love you and I hope to see you again soon. Laters baby."

In a weak, soft voice I hear her whisper, "Laters." I end the call and shake my head.

Pardon me for being the voice of reason here shithead, but what the fuck about your family?

Mom will understand. I explained in my voicemail this was about business. She always understands business.

We should be married by now. This should be a happy time for us. Instead, I sit here feeling like my chest is gonna explode. I can hardly fucking breathe my throat is so tight. I'm losing the only woman I've ever loved. Anastasia is my life. She gives me a reason to function each day. She gives me hope for a future I can share with someone. Who would have thought, a pint-sized pipsqueak could take me down with a pair of ultra-blue eyes, a sweet little giggle and a fabulous smile. I'm still amazed by her.

How long can I stay in Australia without losing my mind?

As we pass somewhere over the Pacific Ocean, I reviewed the shipyard acquisition agreement and checked my emails, which are always fucking ridiculous. At this point, we're set to complete all of the remaining acquisitions before the end of the year.

Cha-ching!

You said it buddy.

Next on the GEH Agenda will be Q4 and End of the Year Reports. Andrea scheduled another Leadership Team Meeting for just after lunch on Monday, Pacific Day Time, of course. I'll be in the air to Townsville by then, so it won't be a problem, for me at least, I can't speak for my employees.

I know those dingbats from Auditing and Quality Analysis better be in the same book on the same page as me. I'm not in the mood for any more bullshit. Just because I don't do their jobs doesn't mean I don't understand their jobs. Everyone, including Ros, needs to keep in mind if they can't do their jobs someone else can. I started GEH alone. Meaning all by myself. No Andrea. No Ros. No Welch. No Taylor. Ros likes to behave as if she were here from the beginning, and I allow her that fantasy, to certain degree. However, the fact remains, "Who put this thing together? Me, that's who." So, with the end of the year on its way, I'm planning what meetings to hold when and in what order.

As I tool away, another message appears.

Date: Friday, November 04, 2011 at 9:00 AM PDT

To: Christian Grey

Cc: Jason Taylor

Subject: CB

From: Alexander Welch

Mr. Grey,

This is an update regarding Christopher Brown and his mother, Vanessa Maxwell.

Young Mr. Brown received a visit from a gentleman we believe is his father (see attachment). We have no name for the guy yet. The gentleman showed up after a football practice. The two were talking and walking to a waiting car. The photos show Ms. Maxwell as the driver of said vehicle.

We confirmed Ms. Maxwell and young master Brown's father were never married and she refused to put his father's name on the boy's birth certificate. When pressed by the hospital, all she said was 'He wouldn't give a fuck anyway', which was an untruth.

Apparently, the kid has a strong relationship with his father, despite the mother. Not just this instance, but also various satellite phone calls, which, as you know aren't easy to trace. We were able to identify the calls because the kid is sloppy. He uses an iPhone. Steve Jobs is rolling over. However, we weren't able to tap or record the actual conversation. Rebound for Tim Cook.

We still have feelers out on the kid's father. We know he has money. Daddy's security is run by a former US Army O-5 and retired INTERPOL Secretary General. Needless to say, he has high level political pull, various special skills and physical military experience.

We'll update you as we receive information.

Sincerely,

Alexander Welch

Head of Corporate Security

Grey Enterprises Holdings, Incorporated

Attachment(s): CB

The attached file holds progressive photos of a tall guy, athletic build, approaching Christopher. It appears he wanted to shake hands, but Christopher just looked at him. The pictures are in black and white so I can't tell much about the mystery man other than he's not a bad looking guy. He does look too young to have a sixteen year old son. I know that's not a rule or anything and I know money has no age limit.

Interesting. Who's this kid's old man and with that security why can't he keep Elena away from his son? If he can swoop in to see a football practice, why isn't he around more often or better yet, why doesn't he take his son away from that whore of a mother? I don't know and I don't want to meet that fucker. Ever!

Ding…

You have new mail. I've always wanted to say that.

You know, they say talking to yourself is the best conversation you can have all day?

Indubitably.

I have my doubts.

Whateva.

One look at the name sets us both off, WHAT THE FUCK DOES THIS BITCH WANT?! We say in unison.

I know I shouldn't open it. All the stress and strife she's caused in my life is reason enough to delete her message, but my dumb ass just had to look.

Date: Friday, November 04, 2011 at 8:47 AM PDT

To: Christian Grey

Subject: How Could You?

From: Katherine Kavanaugh

Shithead!

You selfish, son of a bitch! Where the fuck are you? You couldn't even offer to take Ana with you? ! I knew you were bad news, but this is a whole new level of asshole.

You've got more money than twelve countries can print at any one time. Why the fuck do you need more?! It's a pitiful excuse to jet set around the world instead of standing by your fiancée and supporting her life goals. Simply because you can't control her you tuck tail and run? Coward!

Get your ass back here pronto, you spineless fucking clown, before a real man takes your place.

FUCK YOU GREY!

~ Kate

"THISBITCHISOUTOFHERFUCKINGMIND!"

I really can't stand that cunt.

Andrea contacted Oliver Kelly on Thursday afternoon and told him I'd be in Townsville next Tuesday or Wednesday. Needless to say, he wasn't pleased. Like I give a fuck. When I finally accepted his call, I better understood why ECO Blue Steel is in its current predicament, "Mr. Grey. We were under the impression you were interested in doing business with our organization, not playing hurry up and wait games. We are an international entity as well Mr. Grey. If you are not interested in finalizing our agreement…" OH NO YOU DON'T MOTHERFUCKER!

I know how international ECO Blue Steel is and I know they've got a government affiliation. However, I also know ECO Blue Steel is bleeding to death and looking for life support. "Mr. Kelly, any time you feel it's in your best interest to walk away from our talks, be my guest." He gasped. "I did research on ECO Blue Steel, just like ECO Blue Steel did research on GEH, at least you should've. I know you're company has been turned away from more than four of the largest organizations in Australia, including ,but not limited to, EB, Pty., so don't try to push me around and don't try to pull some indigent behavior out of your ass and lay it on me. I responded to your SOS. If my emergency care isn't to your liking, go back to Edward Brown, lick his boots and pray he doesn't kick you in your teeth." I ended the call.

Snooty ass bastard. I, Welch and Ros tore ECO Blue Steel to pieces. My actions may have seemed hasty, but I'm not dumb enough to fuck myself over, regardless of my personal life. I didn't approach ECO Blue Steel for this deal. When Kelly called me, his company was desperate.

EB, Pty. buys almost everything. Edward Brown is a shrewd, old son of a bitch and everyone in the world of M&A knows EB can bail you out, and usually will, but not this time. The old man has some grudge against Kelly personally, so ECO Blue Steel will have to suffer. I noted the issue, verified Brown truly wasn't interested, then continued to march. I'm no fool. I don't want any bullshit from Brown, that doesn't mean I'll let him stop me either. One man's trash and all that kinda shit.

Ring…Ring…

What the fuck does this prick want now? He's skating on thin ice with me. I'll be in Townsville Tuesday afternoon, regardless of ECO Blue Steel. Whether or not I meet with these bastards rests in the hands of this one arrogant son of a bitch. "Grey!" I shout.

The line is silent for about three seconds before the curtain raises, "Er um. Mr. Grey, this is Oliver Kelly." I look at my watch, six hours since our conversation. Hmmm.

Emergency board meeting. Bet.

You may be right. I spoke with him a little after 9 AM, his time. Now he's back. He best be glad because no one on Earth works at 10PM other than me. "Yes Mr. Kelly." Cut it into small pieces, Ollie. Three chews then swallow hard. My money will settle your stomach.

What do you know about it?

I had to eat crow morning, noon and night after I dropped out of Harvard. Things in the Grey household we consistently grim for me before I started GEH.

"The board met and…" He pauses. I can see the sweat on his brow. They reamed his ass for possibly losing their out. I know they did. He tries to be a spitfire. It doesn't become him, especially when he has someone, or six other someones, who can oppose him. There are only seven board members who take an active interest in ECO Blue Steel, which is another reason for its demise.

"And?" Your call dude or should I call Kukla and Fran to help you out?

"We intend to continue with this acquisition. Tuesday or Wednesday next week is fine." I wanna be pissy and tell him to go fuck himself, but the deal is a good one. Even if ti was a spur of the moment kinda thing.

What's stopping you?

It's not good for business. Yet. After they sign their lives away, then I'll gloat. "Good to hear Mr. Kelly. Wednesday it is then." Once again, I end the call, then text Andrea to update my schedule as I've confirmed a change in plans.

"Mr. Grey, we've begun our descent into Taipei City, Taoyuan International Airport. The local time is 7 PM and the temperature is balmy 75 degrees." Stephen announces our arrival and I begin my mental inventory and tasks list. Andrea was my Jason this time. I'll see how well she handled the challenge.

"Mr. Grey, we'll be landing shortly sir." The flight attendant smiles and bats her eyelashes, again. I swear the damn things have a life of their own. Maybe I can use fluttering fucking eyelashes as a new ecologically safe means of energy. I see enough of the shit and those damn things never seem to stop.

"Thank you Natasha." I flash my mega watt smile, just because I can. She turns bright red in a matter of seconds and fans herself on the way back to her seat. When will the world learn.

"It's just a face."

Well, get ready Grey, there'll be more of the same on the ground.

Yeah. I know.

Andrea made my reservations and secured transportation for me, since Taylor's on vacation. While she sees Taylor and the other security details, she doesn't know protocol. I didn't fill her in on it because I had no intention of bringing anyone with me.

While Steven doesn't know the ins and outs of security either, he knows it's odd from me to travel alone. "Mr. Grey?"

I turn around to see a quizzical look on his face as he approaches me. Almost concerned. "Yes Stephen." I'm in the process of gathering my Von Baer Elegant Black Grand Leather Garment Bag and Carryon, which has a laptop pocket in it. I want to laugh. These people didn't know Christian Grey could carry his own weight, huh? What the fuck is all that working out for if it can't be put to good use. "You ok Stephen?" I chuckle at him.

What the fuck is his problem?

Down boy. "I'm flying solo." He raises his brown, urging me to continue. "I gave Taylor and Gail some much deserved time off, the other security members will be looking after things back home, so it's just me." I shrug one shoulder.

Exactly why the fuck did you have to explain that?

Like I told him, and your unobservant ass already forgot, I'm leaving the plane alone with only my bags to accompany me.

Not being conceited. I expect, sooner or later, the press is gonna see me, so I decided to have a good time with them. I dressed waaayyy down for my travels. Amiri faded blue MA Bar Logo Straight-Leg Jeans with an Ouija Board Pullover Hoodie and Ghosted/Egret/Black Chuck 70 Vintage Canvas basketball sneakers. I look like an overgrown teenager. Elliott dresses this way, without the labels.

It's comfy. I like it, even with the labels.

Somehow I knew you would.

Oh, I love that woman. Andrea's as much of a magician as Taylor. As we enter Terminal One, I verify my ensemble is complete. Only two things will aid and abet the press. One of which is my frantic looking, shining, new penny color hair, the other is my new old friend.

It's one of a few purchases I made before leaving the states and told Andrea to have it meet me at the airport. My new 2012 Audi R8 Spyder V10, black on black in black. The smile on my face widens as I hear Stephen whistle. "She's a beauty. We'll see you Tuesday morning, correct?"

I nod yes. "Early flight. I've already made arrangements for the jet to stay in Townsville. You and your crew have first class accommodations back to Seattle." I pat him on the shoulder. He looks a little down. I know how to reassure him. "Stephen, as long as you're willing to fly and I have a jet, we'll see other again my friend."

He nods at me, "See you on Tuesday morning Mr. Grey. Enjoy your evening sir."

Nice Grey. Very Nice.

I know I can't go unnoticed, but the headhunters won't look for me wearing this expensive college kid gear. Now, when the suits come out, so will the shutterfuckers. I throw my luggage into the boot, jump into my new car, race the motor for a few seconds then peel out of the terminal heading for the exit. I'm sooo tempted to drive across the tarmac, but I know better. Maybe I'll get a motorcycle when I get to Townsville.

Top Gun eh? I'm not gonna argue you out of it if that's what your waiting for.

"Somehow, I knew you wouldn't"

AN: First, thank you for hanging around and for solving the riddle. Not hard. I know.

Second, my editor's on vacation. I apologize for any typos in advance.

FOOTNOTES

Who put this thing together? Me, that's who. Tony Montana to his number two Manny Ribera, from the 1983 film Scarface.

Kukla, Fran & Ollie

American television show using puppets. It was created for children, but was soon watched by more adults than children. It did not have a script and was entirely ad-libbed.

Top Gun

American action drama film about U.S. Navy Naval Aviator Lieutenant Pete "Maverick" Mitchell and his adventuresDisclaimer: The original characters and plot are the property of E.L. James. I'm just having a lil' fun. No copyright infringement is intended.

~ Laters