What Love Gave Us
by
Ava LeBeau
Thirteen
Christian had put his feet up on his desk, leaning back in the executive chair, his hands behind his head as he listened to Andrea's report over speaker phone. All the while he'd been inspecting the toe-cap of his right brogue, turning it to and fro but there was no denying, Gretchen had polished it to perfection.
"I want them to treat her like a queen, Andrea."
Christian was intent to make sure that everything was perfect for Anastasia, in his eyes she deserved to be pampered.
As Andrea explained the complete schedule for Ana's day to him, Christian had to admit that Andrea had surpassed his expectations and he was convinced that the PA was right when she assured him that everything would be to his, and Anastasia's, full satisfaction.
"There's a limo out front and Hannah says it's waiting for you. Care to elaborate? I wasn't aware you're still dating that dickhead Grey."
"Jack," Anastasia grumbled.
"Yes? It's his car, right? He's down there…"
"It probably belongs to his father's company," she bit her lip the moment those words had left her mouth, "And I don't know where he is."
"You never cease to disappoint me lately, Ana," Jack squared his jaw, walking across the room to look out of the window, taking a closer look at the car and the driver who'd only just got out of the limousine, most certainly to come to meet Anastasia downstairs.
Before she could protest her phone buzzed. A tingling blush crept up the back of her neck and into her cheeks and she could feel Jack's eyes on her.
"Is it him? Of course it is him. Am I right?"
Anastasia pulled her bottom lip between her teeth and shook her head, quietly cursing herself for being way too candid when it came to this matter. The whole situation would only enrage Jack more.
She shot a quick glance at the display of her phone. It was another message from the withheld number, saying
The car is waiting downstairs for you. Mister Taylor will be your driver today and is at your service at all times.
Anastasia was sure that her cheeks were crimson by now and she had to admit to herself that she wasn't used to so much attention.
She looked up at Jack, tilting her head a little while a mixture of anxiety and excitement bubbled up inside of her.
"Go on, now," he said, frowning deeply.
"I'm gonna check my emails over the weekend, just let me know what you want me to finish first. I'm gonna work it off, Jack. I promise."
"Leave," he boomed.
"Thank you, Jack," Ana mumbled and made a beeline for the door.
The sleek car glided smoothly through the city streets, Anastasia had settled into the leather seats, the tinted windows offering her privacy and tranquility as she watched the world pass by in a blur of colors and lights. Soft music played in the background and Taylor engaging her in light conversation were lulling Anastasia into a state of calm.
She liked how attentive and accommodating the buff man was, escorting Anastasia, making sure that she had everything she needed.
Nuances of ylang-ylang and amber enveloped Ana while the lady behind the desk, svelte, tall and elegant, let her fingertips skim over a few keys on the computer and moved from behind the desk, smiling a flawless smile, "If you'd like to follow me, Ms Steele."
Ana followed the lady down a long corridor.
"Just through here", she said, holding a door open.
"Thank you", Anastasia said as a masseuse, clad in all white, greeted her with a warm smile and led her to an opulent private room where a massage table awaited her, adorned with fluffy towels. Scented candles were casting a warm glow while the woman asked Ana to make herself comfortable.
Each expert stroke and knead of the masseuse's hands, perfectly in sync with the background music, was melting all her tension away. The flickering candles were creating an ambiance of tranquility, allowing Ana to fully indulge in the experience and let go of any worries about Jack, the project or if she would fit in tonight, anything that was weighing on her mind. Anastasia enjoyed the state of blissful calm she drifted into, surrendering to the healing touch of the massage.
And when the massage came to a close the lady from the front desk stood by, waiting to guide her to another room where an elaborate facial treatment awaited her. Ana slipped on the kimono that lay on a nearby chair, the heavy pure silk was soft against her skin.
Taylor was braving Seattle's rush hour and Anastasia just couldn't stop admiring her fingernails. Filed meticulously, buffed to perfection before - finally - a dark scarlet nail polish had been applied. Ana cursed herself for having buried her keys somewhere in the depths of her purse, convinced that it wouldn't be long before she'd ruin the whole miracle beyond repair.
A soft chime from her phone put her worries to rest.
Having fun?
I don't know what to say. It's perfect. more than that
Glad you like it
tysm - Anastasia added a heart eyes emoji
Can't wait to see you again
same x
To her surprise Jason Taylor insisted on walking her to her apartment when they'd finally reached her building. As they headed upstairs, Ana noticed that he made sure to stay a few careful steps behind, carrying something that looked like a jewelry box, which he handed over when they'd reached her condo.
Wondering what was inside, she thanked Taylor for his exceptional service and smiled when he mentioned that he'd be back later to pick her up for the ball. Handing her a business card with his number, he added that, should she need anything, he'd be on call.
Once Taylor was gone, Ana closed the door behind her and leaned against it, closing her eyes for a moment. Drawing in a deep breath she couldn't stop her heart from racing, waves of joy and contentment swelled within her. Yes, she'd accompany Christian to the ball tonight.
She sat down on the couch and set down the box on the coffee table to open it carefully.
Inside she found a shimmering display of several pieces of jewelry that sparkled under the soft glow of the ambient lighting, casting a mesmerizing glow that caught her eye. A delicate necklace, matching earrings and a bracelet were arranged on midnight blue velvet, each piece more exquisite than the last.
Beside the jewelry lay a handwritten note. Dizzy with excitement, she picked it up and unfolded it to reveal Christian's elegant script written with a fountain pen, realizing that he'd probably expected her to go to the bedroom first:
Ana,
I hope you had a wonderful day. I thought that these might add an extra touch of sparkle to your radiant beauty tonight. I'm positive they're going to complement the gown I chose for you. ~ C.
For a moment, Anastasia trembled inside, her heart hammering in her chest, all the treatments, the limousine, now the jewelry, a gown chosen just for her.
She mused if it was really the right decision to accompany him tonight after all that had happened, wondering if she'd fit in.
But finally Anastasia reached out to carefully examine each piece of jewelry he'd chosen for her. Biting her lower lip, she fastened the delicate diamond necklace around her neck, letting her fingertips brush over it for a second. Next, she slipped on the matching bracelet, was quick to put on the earrings.
The gown I chose for you…
Anastasia walked into the bedroom to catch a glance at the mirror to see what the necklace looked like on her in the first place. But a selection of exquisite evening gowns displayed surprised her, the dresses hung gracefully on a sleek clothing rack, each one more stunning than the last.
Curious and delighted, Ana approached the rack and ran her fingers over the luxurious fabrics, admiring the intricate designs and elegant silhouettes. She couldn't help but smile, once again Christian had gone above and beyond to make her feel special on what would surely become a most memorable evening for them.
Careful as not to ruin the intricate updo, Anastasia slipped into the dark blue dress he'd chosen and admired herself in the mirror. The woman who was smiling back at her when she stood in front of the mirror looked confident and elegant. The makeup that she'd initially been so wary about, usually one to prefer a natural look, was a stunning evening look that enhanced Anastasia's features without overpowering her natural beauty, giving her a radiant glow with just the right touch of glamor.
Anastasia couldn't help but feel like royalty preparing for a state function or something like that as she turned in front of the mirror.
Yes, Christian had been right, the jewelry complemented the gown perfectly, enhancing the ensemble in a way that left her feeling truly special and cherished and she was more than ready to shine among the guests with Christian by her side.
Christian stood near the grand entrance, his heart pounding in his chest.
It was a good thirty minute drive to the venue and Taylor had informed him that they had left twenty minutes ago.
The night was alive with a buzz of excitement and the soft glow of twinkling lights was creating a magical atmosphere that seemed to mirror the emotions that were swirling vibrantly inside of Christian.
The sleek limousine pulled up in front of the red carpet. Taylor, now dressed in a sharp black suit, had been quick to open the door for Ana, extending a courteous hand to help her out of the car. The paparazzi's camera flashes, seconds ago few and far between, fulminated as they caught sight of Anastasia stepping onto the red carpet, the flickering lights enveloping her in some sort of halo, the surroundings fading out.
Christian squared his shoulders when he caught sight of Ana stepping out of the car. He was pleased to find that she'd decided to go with the dress he'd chosen for her, a stunning midnight blue gown.
He smiled when Anastasia locked eyes with him, watched her as the skirt flowed gracefully to the floor, cascading in soft pleats that swirled around Ana's legs as she walked towards him, moving with grace and confidence, each step bringing her closer to him. To see her like this was filling Christian's heart with pride and an overwhelming sense of gratitude for having her by his side tonight.
With a grateful smile, Anastasia thanked Jason Taylor and bid him farewell before she took Christian's arm.
"You look gorgeous," Christian said and beamed at her.
"You don't look too bad either," she teased, eliciting a husky laugh from him, while inside of her a mixture of excitement and nervousness was reaching new heights.
Mingling among the guests under glittering chandeliers a warm cloud of laughter, the sound of clinking glasses and chatter engulfed Anastasia as Christian led her deeper into the ballroom. She felt as if all eyes were on them and her hand, resting lightly on Christian's forearm, started to tremble.
Christian, who must've noticed, patted her hand with his free right hand and said, "Don't worry, it's mostly friends and family here."
"I'm really nervous," Anastasia admitted, smiling up at him.
"I guess I've just found the perfect remedy for that," Christian stopped a waiter who was carrying a tray with glasses of champagne. "I hope you like Bollinger?"
"Mhmm," she pressed her lips together and took the glass he was handing her, never letting go of Christian's arm. She'd never heard of Bollinger before.
"To a wonderful evening," Christian raised his glass and nodded, "I'm so glad you are here tonight."
Anastasia followed suit and took a small sip, smiling again, "Thanks for having me."
"There's Christian," Mia piped, waving him over.
The Greys had gathered by the family's table while the ball was headed for the first highlight of the evening, Carrick's welcome address, the speech intended to be the prelude to the auction.
Carrick Grey had spotted Christian and his company as well and leaned closer to press a fleeting kiss to his wife Grace's cheek, "If you'll excuse me, dear, I want to have a quick word with the Senator before the opening."
"You promised me, no business tonight, darling," Grace's hand brushed across the lapel of her husband's custom tailored tuxedo, picking off an imaginary lint.
"Not tonight, sweetheart," he nodded curtly and bowed out before the younger Grey, Ana still on his arm, had reached the rest of the family.
"Is she here tonight?" Anastasia was aware that her question would put a considerable damper on Christian's remarkably good mood and as the words left her lips she could feel him tensing up as he walked beside her. But Ana needed to know.
"Who are you talking about?"
"Don't pretend you don't know who I'm talking about, Christian," she side-glanced at him. "I really wish you'd just tell me what's going on between you two."
"Alright, yes, she's here tonight. With my family," he'd stopped and turned to look at her, his eyes flickering feverishly. "I thought you trust me?"
"Would I be here tonight if I didn't trust you?"
"Then why are you even asking?"
Anastasia narrowed her eyes.
"Fine… She's a good friend of the family. I don't care for her. We're not engaged. That's all, Ana. End of story," Christian droned out while his hand came to rest against the small of Anastasia's back as if he wanted to urge her to keep moving, his palm hot against her soft ivory skin.
"Are you going to do anything about the press coverage?"
"Let's talk about this another time. Please?" he'd tilted his head slightly and licked his lips, holding her gaze.
"Are you?"
"Listen, Ana, I'd rather not discuss all the fuckin' gossip the tabloids are spouting incessantly about me and how much it's pissing me off. Not tonight, okay?" his voice had adopted a challenging tone.
"For my sake…," Anastasia pressed on, studying his features for a second.
"Seriously?"
All the levity was gone and his expression had hardened but still he gallantly offered his arm again.
Anastasia could see that a deep line had appeared between his eyebrows.
"I'm sorry, Christian," was all she said, letting him lead the way to his parents' table, already spotting her, Lily, talking animatedly to Elliot and Kate.
"Welcome, Senator Miller, ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, it is with great pleasure and gratitude that I stand before you tonight at this beautiful event. As we gather here in the spirit of giving and generosity, I am reminded of the importance of family bonds and the love we hold for our loved ones.
Family is not just about blood relations, but about the connections we forge through shared experiences, laughter, tears and unwavering support. It is about standing by each other through thick and thin, celebrating each other's successes, and lifting each other up in times of need.
In a world that often feels divided and chaotic, it is our families that provide us with a sense of belonging and purpose. They are our rock, our safe haven in a stormy sea - a constant source of love and strength that sustains us through life's trials and tribulations.
I would be remiss if I did not take this opportunity to express my deepest gratitude to my darling wife Grace. Her unwavering love and support have been my guiding light through every storm life has thrown our way. Grace, thank you for being my rock, my confidante and my partner in all things. Your love has been the foundation upon which our family stands strong.
And to my three children - Elliot, Christian, and Mia - whom I love and support with every fiber of my being. You are the light of my life, the reason I strive to be a better man each day.
Tonight, as we come together to support this worthy cause, ladies and gentlemen, let us remember the power of love and unity that binds us all as one big family. Let us open our hearts to those around us, extending a hand of kindness and compassion to those who may be struggling or in need of support.
Thank you for joining Grace and me tonight, for your generosity and your unwavering support. Let us make this evening a testament to the enduring power of family bonds and the boundless capacity for love that resides within each and every one of us. Together, we can create a brighter future for all.
And as we dance and celebrate tonight, let us remember the importance of family, the joy of giving and the beauty of sharing our blessings with those in need. Let us be grateful for the love that surrounds us and strive to be a beacon of hope and compassion in our communities.
Thank you once again for your presence here tonight. May your hearts be filled with love, your spirits lifted by the joy of giving, and may we all continue to make a positive impact in the lives of others.
Together, let us make a difference. Thank you."
The audience erupted into applause and, basking in it, Carrick spread his arms and gave a nod before he left the stage swiftly, making room for the auction's preparations.
At the foot of the stage Christian found himself waiting for his father.
The light of his life, yeah right, Christian thought and let out a mirthless laugh. The bane of his existence more like.
"You wanted to talk to me?" Christian stepped closer, his voice low.
The soft glow of the chandeliers cast a warm light over the room, illuminating the opulent surroundings and the well-dressed guests mingling around them.
Carrick's stern expression betrayed his displeasure as he glanced at his youngest son, his eyes narrowing slightly as he took in the sight of Ana standing across the room, her midnight blue gown shimmering in the light as she talked to Grace and Mia. Christian could sense his father's disapproval even before a word was spoken, knowing all too well what was coming.
"Christian," Carrick began in a cold voice, his tone laced with a hint of disappointment. "I must say I am surprised to see you have the audacity to bring this woman here tonight."
Christian braced himself for what he was sure was coming next, steeling his resolve as he met his father's gaze head-on.
"I happen to think that mother was rather pleased to finally meet Ana, Father. She is a remarkable woman after all," he replied evenly, trying to keep his emotions in check despite the tension that hung between the two men.
Christian let his gaze wander over the crowd, spotting Ana, who was now talking to Kate and Elliot.
To gloss over the slight delay tonight's entertainer struck up a rendition of Can't Help Falling in Love.
But I can't help falling in love with you
Shall I stay?
Would it be a sin
If I can't help falling in love with you?
the man sang and Carrick's expression hardened further at Christian's words and the choice of song, one of his mother-in-law's favorites, his disapproval evident as he continued, "Christ, this calls for a drink."
Out of nowhere Carrick Grey's PA Gloria appeared and relieved her boss of a folder that most certainly held some speaker's notes, beaming at him as she piped, "Sir," only to disappear again, making Christian wonder if Carrick also made her call him Sir whenever he had an itch down there and her down on her knees before him.
"Anyway, Christian, I want you to meet me in my study in twenty minutes. I've got some things to discuss with you. Now, go join your mother at the Senator's table."
A muscle in Christian's jaw started to jump as he nodded quietly.
And as the lyrics echoed from the walls of the ballroom,
Some things are meant to be - Take my hand - Take my whole life, too - For I can't help falling in love with you,
Christian made his way across the room, his gaze fixated on her, Anastasia, who had now taken her seat next to Elliot, seemingly laughing at one of his jokes.
A/N: As always I'd like to thank you for reading my latest chapter. Thank you for all your lovely reviews, the concrit and encouragement. Thank you, dear guest for pointing out the lapse, it's already corrected. Looking forward to hearing from you. Take care.
