What Love Gave Us

by

Ava LeBeau

Fourteen

It wasn't long before the auction was in full swing. Christian sat beside Anastasia, side-glancing at her from time to time and from the smile on her face he could tell that she was having a great time.

His eyes darted to the Hublot on his wrist, he had ten minutes left.

Christian snaked his arm around Ana's shoulder, leaning closer, he whispered, "Want to place a bid?"

Anastasia slightly bowed her head, lowering her gaze when Christian shifted in his seat to kiss her cheek gently, staring at Lily who sat right across the table while he straightened and reached for the bidding card that lay in front of him, a wry grin ghosting across his features.

"Come on," he whispered and handed Ana the card, interlacing his fingers with hers.

"Christian, I've never…," she said and looked at him.

"Sh, sh, shhh," he whispered and gave her hand a gentle squeeze.

In the meantime, the auctioneer had announced the next lot, a 'romantic weekend', as he had put it, at a luxury chalet in Aspen, Colorado. By courtesy of Christian's parents.

The master of ceremonies had opened the bidding at $10,000 and one of the guests was quick to place their bid.

"$15?" The conférencier called and thanked another bidder for their placement.

Christian, his arm still around Ana's shoulder, idly traced small circles against her velvety skin with the pad of his thumb, paying close attention to the course of the bidding, a smug grin plastered across his features. He could feel Lily's eyes on him and relished in it.

Five minutes. He had five more minutes.

Meanwhile the other bidders had lifted the bid to a hefty $20,000.

Lanky Christian slouched in his seat, his arm still firmly around Anastasia's shoulder, he could tell that she felt uncomfortable.

And so he shifted, leaning closer to whisper, "Ready?"

Anastasia's eyes widened in shock when he yanked up their interlaced hands and called, "$25,000!"

Ana stared at him, whispering, "Are you crazy?"

"Uh-uh," he grinned and leaned closer to steal a kiss, fully aware of Lily's glances.

"You like to play," Anastasia whispered.

"Always," Christian's voice was low and husky.

And when the lighting engineer wanted to cast the spotlight on Christian for their successful bid, he was quick to raise his index in quiet protest, nodding towards Anastasia who was immediately the center of attention, the conférencier congratulating her on her perfect bid.

Christian noticed that she was shifting in her seat, folding her arms in front of her chest.

Joining the audience in a round of applause for her, clapping slowly but firmly, he leaned closer, "I'll be right back, Ana."

"Where are you going?" her eyes widened and for a moment he thought that she wanted to reach for his hand.

"Having a quick chat, I won't be long," his hand came to rest against her upper arm while he leaned down to kiss her cheek again. "Don't worry, Ana, E's right here."

Closing the top button of his tuxedo he straightened up and squared his shoulders, stopping by his mother's side when she waved him closer.

"Father wants to talk to me, I'll be back in a minute, Mother," he said before she could inquire any further. His smile was flawless when he gave her hand a soft squeeze.

But inside Christian was weighed down with anxiety.

"l've been so looking forward to meeting you," Anastasia froze when Christian's chair got occupied again.

"After everything Christian's told me. Lily Van Houten," the blonde beamed at Ana and grabbed her hand to shake it.

Anastasia pressed her lips together, "Anastasia Steele, nice to meet you too."

Her gaze darted to their hands and Lily let go.

"Well, what's he said?" Ana toyed with the stem of her water glass to keep her hands busy.

"Oh, that you're in publishing and everything about the project you've just launched with S.I.P.."

"Mhmm," Anastasia nodded, wondering what else he had told her.

"He even showed me some of the pictures. I was so impressed, Anastasia."

"Just call me Ana, please," she smiled softly.

"Ana, okay… Well, they're really poignant. I hope he decides to choose more of them for the next exhibition. I mean, they're in such stark contrast to the ones they usually show. So, I'm sure he will. You know, that's what I love about Christian so much. His dedication to the cause, not surprising seeing what he's been through as a child. But I suppose, you already know, right?" Lily smiled softly and Anastasia nodded slowly.

"I love how Carrick and Grace are encouraging him so much. Lately even my father's company has made some commitments with regard to the environment and society, investments in a social responsibility program and such. They're providing local communities with benefits, mainly on a voluntary basis, of course, but at least they try."

"Of course," Anastasia mumbled while Lily pulled out her phone and swiped across the display, giving Ana the chance to study the other woman for a second.

Lily was everything a man could wish for, Ana was sure about that.

Tiny waist, refined manners but bubbly nonetheless, long legs, accomplished to move in the most upper-class circles, the perfect smile, and, to top it all off, heiress, in time, to a multi-million business empire that was encompassing the entire world.

What was there not to covet?

"I know what you were trying to do there, Christian… Teach the master how to play, huh? Nice try but I'd rather you'd do as I say not as I do," Carrick stared at his son, his voice was heavy with sarcasm.

"All I want is the money, father. I only gave you what you asked me to do."

"It's a courtesy report, Christian. A courtesy report, you hear?"

A muscle in Christian's jaw started to jump. Carrick was right, he'd whitewashed some of the findings.

"All this just to save S.I.P., Christian? To save your little plaything out there?" Carrick sneered. "This could end you up in prison, Christian. You're going to break your mother's heart," Carrick had left his seat behind his desk and was now steadily approaching his younger son, his steely gaze boring into him.

"I'm sure your henchmen can withhold it? At least for a while? Or else it could end you up in prison, too," Christian glowered at his father, giving a half-shrug.

"Alright, listen, you want the money? I know you do. Well, let me tell you what we're going to do next," all of a sudden Carrick's voice softened.

"What's gonna happen to S.I.P?"

"Let this be my concern," Carrick said indifferently, "Now, sit down, please."

"I'd rather stand, thank you," for a moment, Christian tightened one of his hands into a fist while his arms remained heavy at his sides.

The slightest hint of frown ghosted across Carrick Grey's features but he recovered quickly.

"Initially, your mother and I were planning to consider your brother Elliot… but let me say that we were really impressed with how you handled the gala in New York," his hands folded behind his back, Carrick started pacing his study, the sound of the heavy leather soles of his dress shoes against the creaking hardwood floor was echoing from the book-lined walls.

"What are you trying to say?"

"Your mother wants me to spend more time at home, son. More time with her. She's asked me to withdraw from this project."

Christian furrowed his brow, still not sure if he'd understood what his father was playing at.

"The charity, Christian. Your mother and I want you to finally play a bigger part now that your brother is taking this next step, starting his own family."

"I don't understand," said Christian, studying his father's haughty features.

"We're intending to appoint you as CEO of the charity."

"What?"

"You're going to sign the contract on Monday. The money's going to be in your account before the ink's even dry and you're back home."

His mouth set in a hard line, Christian was staring at Carrick, it was finally dawning on him, Carrick wanted to send him off to New York, far away from Seattle. Far away from his new business. Far away from her, Ana.

Christian felt a surge of frustration and anger rise inside of him as he realized the depth of his father's determination. The weight of his family's expectations bore down on him heavily, threatening to suffocate his own desires and dreams.

"Father," Christian said, his voice tinged with desperation. "I'm afraid I cannot do this."

Carrick's expression hardened, his disappointment turning into unbridled anger.

"You will do as I say, Christian. I've told you before that I will not allow you to throw away everything I have worked for. Not for some of your foolhardy ideas, doomed to fail, or mere infatuation for that matter," he said sternly. "You simply cannot throw away such an opportunity… and let me make this very clear, your personal feelings are irrelevant in this matter."

Christian felt a wave of defiance swell inside of him as he met his father's gaze head-on.

"I cannot comply with your wishes, Father," he said firmly. "I will not sacrifice my happiness for the sake of tradition or wealth. My decision is final."

Carrick's voice was cold and authoritative when he spoke again, "Alright, let me put it this way, you will sign the fucking contract on Monday… or face the goddamn consequences of your actions. Is that in any way unclear, huh?"

"Father, please, I won't fail–" Christian pleaded again.

"I don't want to hear about it," Carrick boomed.

"Father…"

"Enough!" his father snapped and slammed his fist on the table.

Christian's heart was hammering against his ribs and he struggled hard to keep a straight face.

All of a sudden Carrick's voice was very low and menacing, "As for Lily… I have important business with her family going on. I don't want it disturbed by your… your fling with this woman, Christian."

With a brusque movement of his hand Carrick made it clear for Christian that it was time for him to leave the study.

Carrick Grey had made his decision and both men knew that the elder Grey would never accept his son defying him in such a crucial matter.

His cheeks burning with anger, Christian strode across the ballroom that was buzzing with the chatter of the guests, their laughter and sounds of clinking glasses. Curious glances were following him like a shadow. Yes, their family's bond was strained by conflicting desires and expectations. But Christian knew that he had chosen the right path, his path - even if it meant defying his father's wishes and risking everything he held dear.

"There you are," Lily's voice came when he reached the table, she was sitting beside Anastasia, her phone lay in front of them and both women were looking down at the display.

"Christian," Ana said softly and rose from her seat, "Lily's showing me some of the new pictures for your parents' charity. They're awesome."

"Glad to hear it," he said curtly while his hand brushed gently against Anastasia's elbow.

And while only seconds ago Christian's face had been flushed with frustration and defeat, now, with the magnitude of his father's decision slowly but surely sinking in, it seemed like all color had drained from it.

"Are you okay?" Ana scanned his features, stepping closer.

"I'm fine, don't worry. Just feeling a little… uh… queasy," the muscles in his throat worked when he swallowed dryly, yet he forced a smile while he wrapped his arm around her waist.

"Sure you haven't pigged out on the anchovies canapés again?" Elliot mocked and Lily chuckled.

"Jeez, Ana, did you know he hates anchovies like hell?" Elliot explained.

"Mhmm," Anastasia nodded and cast a glance at Christian, gently rubbing his back.

"But let me guess, it isn't the anchovies but the speech you're supposed to give. He always gets queasy when he's stressed out, you know," Elliot made a fake retching sound and looked at Ana.

"Shut up, E," Christian said.

"Dad's assistant is already looking for you," Elliot patted Christian's shoulder, grinning wryly while Christian arched his eyebrow, saying, "Does she now?"

"Mhmm," Elliot nodded but Christian ignored him.

Instead, he leaned closer and said to Anastasia, "Listen, can we talk?"

Looking up at him, Ana said, "Sure," and he took her hand.

When he turned to lead Anastasia away from the table, eager to find a quiet corner where they could talk, Carrick's assistant stood in front of him.

"Sir?"

Sir… There it was again.

"Yes, Gloria?" Christian frowned, glancing down at the folder she was hugging to her chest.

"We're already behind schedule and would really like to continue with your impact story if that's alright with you, Sir?"

"Of course," his frown deepened. "Give me one sec."

He turned to Anastasia, "I'm sorry, Ana." Christian cupped her cheeks with his hands and kissed her, "I promise, I won't take long and then we talk, okay?"

Nodding, Anastasia drew her bottom lip between her teeth when he pulled away.

"Good," his voice was barely above a whisper. Christian gave a small smile and turned to follow the assistant to the stage, his hand coming to rest against his stomach for a moment.

"Senator, esteemed guests, it is an honor to be before you tonight, to join you in this celebration for Coping Together. As we gather in this beautiful setting, surrounded by love and generosity, I would like to remind you of the immense power we hold to make a difference in the world.

One of the greatest challenges our global community is facing today is the issue of world hunger. It is a heartbreaking reality that millions of people around the world go to bed hungry every night, unsure of where their next meal will come from. This is a crisis that concerns me deeply and I am committed to doing everything in my power to help alleviate this suffering.

Having witnessed firsthand the impact of hunger and food insecurity on individuals and families, I understand the importance of coming together to support those in need. It is a cause that is close to my heart, and I am dedicated to working towards a future where no one has to experience the pain of hunger.

I recently had the opportunity to visit the village and see the progress they're making for myself. I am also confident that you will be delighted to learn that our efforts are making a real difference there. I invite you to take a look at the photo gallery on the charity's website."

In the background there was a slideshow running, showing photos of Christian on his trip. His obvious dedication raised a small smile from Anastasia.

Lily leaned closer and whispered, "You should really visit the village one day, Ana. It's so humbling," Anastasia nodded but couldn't tear her eyes away from Christian.

"By standing together with compassion and empathy," Christian continued, "we can provide solace and support to those who are facing adversity. We're all members of a global family, united in our commitment to creating a more just and equitable world for all.

Through initiatives like Coping Together, we can join forces to provide essential resources and assistance to those who are struggling. Let us stand united in our mission to combat hunger and poverty, knowing that our collective efforts can bring hope and relief to those who are most vulnerable.

Thank you for your presence here tonight, for your generosity and your unwavering support. Together, I'm certain, we can make a meaningful impact in the lives of those who are in need. Thank you."

As Christian finished his heartfelt speech, the audience erupted into applause, visibly moved by his words and dedication to the cause. A figure emerged from the crowd and made his way onto the stage. It was Carrick, accompanied by Grace, Kate, Lily and Elliot. They all joined Christian in the spotlight.

Showily, Carrick placed a firm hand on Christian's shoulder, offering a subtle nod of approval before he turned to address the crowd.

He placed his hand over his heart and began, "I really have a sentimental weakness for my children, trust me, Grace can attest to that. It fills me with a lot of pride to see just how far they've come, ladies and gentlemen."

His voice commanding attention, Carrick continued, "And that is why Grace and I are delighted to announce a new chapter in the Coping Together organization. After years of dedicated service and unwavering commitment, we feel that it is time for a new leader to step forward."

The audience murmured in anticipation as Carrick continued, his icy blue gaze lingering on Christian, who tried to force a strained smile.

"Our son, Christian, will be taking over the chair at the charity office in New York City. His passion for helping those in need and his tireless efforts to combat hunger make him the perfect candidate for this important role."

Christian gave a quick nod before he resorted back to staring straight ahead, his face impassive save for the muscle in his jaw that was twitching again.

Inside, Christian trembled and dread twisted in his stomach. Standing beside his father, who was towering over him, Christian clenched and unclenched his clammy, cold hands.

A wave of surprise rippled through the crowd as Carrick dropped another bombshell.

"Joining him as his partner in this endeavor will be Lily Van Houten," he declared, gesturing towards the young woman standing beside Grace. Lily smiled and stepped forward to join Christian in the spotlight, beaming up at him.

Sucking in a deep breath, Christian closed his eyes for a second, his father's words were drowning him. Burying his hands in his pockets, he stared down at his feet, his chest caving slightly while his whole body felt numb.

The audience applauded the announcement but Carrick raised his hands to win back their attention, "And while this is strictly work-related, please do allow me to note that Grace and I would be beyond delighted if Christian were to take the same path as his older brother."

As if on cue, the band struck up the first few chords of Wagner's 'Wedding March' and the crowd cheered.

Carrick laughed while Christian, the weight of his new responsibilities heavy on his shoulders, narrowed his eyes and scanned the crowd. Among all the happy faces, he searched for one in particular - Anastasia's. She stood at the back of the room, arms folded in front of her chest. Her face was unreadable from afar but Christian could tell that her gaze was fixed on him.

It was the soft touch of his mother's hand against his back that dragged him out of his racing thoughts and Grace's gentle whispers, telling him just how proud she was of him, calmed him down while Carrick kept talking.

"Some of you might already know and I am very pleased to announce tonight that our son Elliot has asked his partner Katherine Kavanagh to marry him."

Carrick turned to face his elder son and his soon-to-be daughter-in-law, "Kate, Elliot, Grace and I love you and we can't wait to celebrate this special occasion with you!"

The guests applauded again but all Christian wished was that he could just turn away and leave the stage immediately. He had to find Ana.

Yet once again he felt his father's hand on his shoulder, his grip vice-like and painful, urging him to pose for photos, hissing "Smile" through gritted teeth.

The photo op concluded and Christian's demeanor faltered. He rushed off the stage, leaving his family behind.

"Christian, where are you going?" Lily's voice was filled with concern, surprised by his sudden departure.

But Christian didn't bother to respond to this.

He felt like walking in a fog, engulfed by the chatter of the guests, their laughter and the clinking of glasses, all blending into a cacophony that threatened to suffocate him. Elegantly dressed donors surged forward, eager to offer their congratulations and well-wishes to the Grey family. The air was thick with the scent of expensive perfume and murmur of hushed conversations, each word and gesture magnified in Christian's heightened state of unease.

The weight of the crowd pressed in on him, their curious gazes and whispered speculations adding to the mounting tension that coiled within him like a serpent ready to strike. He knew they didn't mean to, but people brushed against Christian as he navigated through the throngs of guests with long strides, their hands reaching out to touch him, the enigmatic scion of the Grey family.

Christian felt a surge of emotions welling up inside of him that threatened to unravel his carefully constructed façade. With a quick movement of his left, he tugged at the collar of his crisp white shirt, pulling it away from his throat, inhaling deeply as he pushed his way towards the exit.

Anastasia's sudden departure from the venue had left him reeling. When he'd noticed her disappearing into the crowd, still held up on stage, a sense of urgency had gripped him - he wasn't used to losing, in fact, he couldn't bear the thought of losing her, not when his heart secretly longed for her presence by his side.

"Excuse me," Christian uttered politely as he maneuvered through the sea of happy faces, his anthracite gaze fixed on Anastasia. The elegant sweep of her gown and the determined set of her shoulders spoke volumes, her resolve palpable in every step she took away from him.

Every now and then, Christian was held up, paused briefly to thank well-wishers who extended their greetings and compliments.

"Thank you," he mumbled, exchanging pleasantries with familiar faces, quick to feign a smile. But his focus remained on finding Anastasia.

Before it was too late.

A/N: Thank you for reading my latest chapter.