So it's been a while since I've written. But on the day of my grandpa's first anniversary, I decided to sit at my computer and relax, and somehow I couldn't stop! So here's chapter 2...I will be updating New Beginnings tomorrow too with two new chapters!
A few hours later
"To make matters worst, this guy was a huge ass." Ana pouted as the make-up artist was finishing up her makeup. Ana couldn't help herself. How could someone be so frustrating after just meeting someone once? It was old and annoying. "How em I supposed to work with someone who just broods and is…"
Kate laughed along as she squeezed Ana's hand. Kate knew it was hard for Ana to see past her grief and past. The passing of both her parents hadn't been easy last year and to be honest, it surprised Kate that Ana jumped so quickly back into work; it was sometimes that she was avoiding the worst of it. It wasn't exactly something she was completely open with, and Kate did her best to keep that part of Ana's life up private, but sometimes she wanted to share, and when she did, it was like seeing an eclipse. "I think we need to put a tab on this conversation." Ana looked back at Kate, her lips formed a deep frown. "Look, I don't think the guy is the best one, but you know better than anyone that walls are up for a reason." Ana hated the fact that Kate was sounding more and more like her. After everything she'd been through, Ana herself had a guard up and didn't really let many people in the way she used to. "Plus, you need to be careful about who we're venting to. You do not want it to get out that you're complaining. It makes it easier for people to splash you on tabloids and not in a pleasant light."
Reality hit Ana, she realised Kate was right. She wasn't exactly used to the idea of people wanting to get information from her; let alone plastering her on any magazine. She couldn't do that to the Greys after they were so kind and caring when she met them. "Sorry, Kate. I wasn't rationally thinking. I will be better, I promise." Ana smiled softly while looking at Kate with her phone as the make-up artist smiled as she lightly put. the finishing touches on Ana.
Kate took a quick snap of Ana in her most carefree moment before editing the picture into a black-and-white photo. Once done, Kate revealed it to Ana; she always loved how Ana seemed to be as photogenic as she was. "I want you to caption this. I want you to become comfortable using this for yourself. I know you aren't to into social media, but this will help your popularity."
"I think I have it." Ana took the phone, smiling at the picture. Something she hoped to do with her platform was to help people who struggle with mental health and any insecurities. It was something she struggled with growing up, and truly, she wanted to help people who felt alone in their life like she did.
'Step into this experience with butterflies in your bones; with a nervous feeling so beautiful. You know, you're doing something right. #Jimmykimmelbutterflies'
With a satisfied smile, she pressed post. "First steps are always the best." Kate nudged her best friend as she took in the whole look. Ana had light makeup on with capturing the beauty that they knew her for. She was wearing a beautiful white floral lace printed A-line dress with flare sleeves. The dress had a slight V-neck, but the Criss Cross string that went through it caused it to have more of a boho feel than a flashy style. "You are simply classic with this look." She smiled, noticing her friend had opted for a white booty to complete the outfit. "Very Brie Bella." She laughed ahead of checking her watch. "Better get a move on. Remember when asked about the movie, be as descriptive as you can, but remember to keep nice about Christian. We want to promote positive." Kate glared playfully as Ana gave a quick thumbs up while she began heading out to the stage.
"First up, my next guest was belting her heart out for the first few years on Hamilton later joining Law and Order SVU as a season regular and now she's about to star in the first movie of the Burn trilogy: First Burn next year. Please put your hands together for Anastasia Steele!" Jimmy Kimmel announced. Taking a deep breath, Ana put herself in her cheerful place beforehand; it calmed her as she walked onstage, smiling while waving to the crowd. After a quick hug to Jimmy, Ana sat down on the couch, carefully knowing her dress was on the shorter side. "Welcome back, Ana! My wife wanted me to tell you the chicken salad recipe you gave me was exactly what she was needing the last few months of her pregnancy."
Ana laughed, remembering the last time she was here was last year back when her parents passed away. His wife was just as far along as her mother was before she had passed, and the only thing that settled her mom's cravings was her dad's chicken salad. It didn't matter what it was on; she ate it like crazy. "Literally works every time. My mom used to tell me about the time she was pregnant with me and begged my dad to make it; it hit every taste she needed. Salty, sweet, sour and bitter, made her the happiest." She tried to keep the happy vibe going, but it was still a fresh wound that sliced her open every time.
Jimmy could pick up the mood had changed slightly. He knew about her family passing, but she was trying to push through it. He'd met her father years ago when they sparked a friendship at a Laker's game, and since then he has had a soft spot for Ana. "So, like I said earlier, you're about to embark on a big mission with these movies. I know a little about these books from my wife, but if you could tell everyone a bit about it."
Ana smiled thankfully, something that brought her some kind of joy talking about. She wasn't exactly ready to talk publicly about the loss of her parents. "Yeah, so the Burn books are about two people from not only different walks of life but also from different countries. In the first book you meet Liz in New York studying to be a teacher, she's a spicy brunette who just tells everyone exactly what she is feeling. But after a terrible breakup and a clear switch in her usual life, her best friend suggests taking a few months away from reality. Liz's friend Abby invites Liz on a trip to Ireland for a few months."
Ana laughed as Jimmy stares at her in amusement. "Seriously, wish my friends would've asked me to live in Ireland for a few months. I can't even get them sometimes to come over for an hour." Everyone laughs as both Ana and Jimmy crack up. "I mean seriously, I wish this would've happened to me in collage."
Ana nodded in agreement, laughing at the crazy scenario. "Right?! I mean the fact that this epic storyline is literally a wish that I had. Like we're getting to film right in Ireland for like five months and I'm so excited." Ireland had always been on her bucket list as a teen, and to get to visit, she couldn't be happier. "But yeah, we also meet Anthony, who is traveling to Ireland after disagreeing with his father about deciding to become a writer rather than practicing law like he does. They meet and honestly, it's a weird dynamic between the two of them. You have a woman who has gone through a nasty breakup trying to figure out her next step and a guy who was attempting to push out of his father's ideals. He's dating the type of girl his father would love, but there's this sense of adventure when he looks at Liz, something he craved all his life. The burn of adventure is truly what sets them in motion."
Jimmy interrupts with a laugh. "Cause you know the fans wouldn't flock to the movie if we didn't see the drama in it."
"Exactly, and that's what you get in the first book." Ana laughs before finishing the description. The two of them have such a good banter between them, it eases her into forgetting her surroundings. They talk about a few other topics associated with the movie and the book. She knew exactly what to keep to herself. She didn't want to spoil the whole movie for the people who hadn't read the book just yet.
As the segment continued to progress, Ana was feeling more at peace, even becoming playful with the crowd. Towards the end of the segment, Ana was becoming more excited to go to dinner with Kate after. It was strange. This was easier than she expected, but it wasn't exactly fun. "I know I speak for everyone when I say I cannot wait to see this movie come to life. Let alone see you take on this character. But before you go, I found out recently you've actually started a foundation for mental health resources."
This was truly her pride and joy. It was one reason she welcomed the fame; it was the ability to use her platform to help people... She had recently gotten in contact with a few different mental health helplines to help fund more affordable help for those who need it. "Yes!" She sat up excitedly. This was something she never minded talking about. It was actually something that brought her joy and a rational mind. "I'm so happy. We're calling it the High Hope Initiative. We hope to provide more affordable help for people who suffer from all different mental health types. Getting help isn't easy and sometimes unspoken among families, which makes it hard for young people to get help. Some cannot afford it, and some have families who don't support them, which makes it hard to get the help they need. So with the High Hope Initiative, they will get free help and an outpouring of resources with the counselor assigned to them. It is so important to be a voice for something I whole heartily believe in."
"This world is not ready for you. Ladies and Gentlemen, Anastasia Steele." Claps rang through the building as they cut to another commercial. Ana smiled at Jimmy standing up. "I know I've said it many times, but your parents would be so proud of you for this foundation." Ana smiled sadly at her father's friend. Jimmy had been heartbroken by the loss of her father. Their friendship was one of reality. After meeting, the two continued to bond over baseball, being a father and husband; they both just clicked, and it was a friendship that she mirrored with Kate.
"Thank you. The other firefighters used to not believe your friendship was real and always roasted dad, but he never saw the famous side of you, just you. Thank for being his friend." She smiles, ushering herself off the stage towards Kate, who was waiting by the curtain. "I need a drink, pronto."
"Lets go. I got a reservation at Craft. I'm praying this is the day we meet Tom." Ana just rolled her eyes as she heading towards the dressing room to change.
#
It pissed Christian off that his mother was mad at him because of the minor incident at lunch. While driving to his house, Christian continued to replay the lunch meeting. He couldn't get it out of his mind. Even as his bodyguard, Taylor, drove him to his Malibu house up the coast, Christian found his self doing the one thing he swore to never do… google his costar. Something about her drew him in. It was strange. She wasn't his type, but there was something about her, though. "Mr. Grey are you okay?" Christian looked up to see his friend staring back at him curiously. "I've tried to call you a few times, so I tried and use your formal name to get you out of it. I'm assuming by your mother's glares towards you when we left, it didn't go well."
Christian tossed his phone to the side before staring out the window. His mind plagued with thoughts about Anastasia. There was something about her; he just couldn't put his finger on it. A few hours and it wasn't enough; usually his costars would bore him or just be out to sleep with him… not her. She was different, complex and enduring. Maybe he just need to drown himself in a bottle to rid himself of these thoughts. "I made an ass of myself after meeting my new costar. Mom didn't like it. I'm going to give it a few days and then I'll try to talk to her again. You know my mom. She gets mad and in a few days she'll ask me to lunch as if nothing happened." A rolling cycle that they both knew was in play every time she got mad at him. "Frankly, I just need a stiff drink and I'll be fine."
Taylor peaked in the rearview mirror at his long-time friend. Instantly he could tell that something was off about him; it seemed like the problem was deeper than just a disagreement with Grace. For years he'd known Christian to keep people at bay and let very few in, but after the whole breakup with Elena had played out in the tabloids, it really messed him up. While his circle got smaller, his drinking seem to make up for the loss. It was hard for his friend to watch him basically numb himself to the world. It was a miracle that his father didn't strangle the life at him. On some level, everyone knew the drinking was his way of coping with the depression that Elena's games seem to cause. "Maybe we could grab dinner or something with your brother. I feel like going home and getting wasted might not be the best idea. Especially if it is alone. I promise we can try something on the water…" Taylor watched as Christian stared out the window, rubbing his face in frustration. He didn't want to go out and see the cameras following him. It wasn't exactly what he wanted.
"Fine, but I don't want to go out after. Dinner and that's it. I have to be somewhere tomorrow for a photoshoot. Last thing I want to is to have both my parents pissed at me. You and I both know they tie in who is worst when they are mad." Taylor pulled up to one of Christian's favorite places. It was strange, the numbing feeling he felt the second he got out of the car and the flashing lights blinded him. He just hurried into the building. He hid his face while attempting to ignore the raging questions blazing towards him.
Raking his fingers roughly through his hair, Christian finally let out a breath before a server came rushing over. "Mr. Grey, I am so glad to hear of your arrival. Mr. Elliot Grey is waiting for you in the VIP area." Christian just nodded before tilting his head towards the server; the less he made a fuss, the more likely they would let him enjoy the dinner in peace. "Here you go."
"My little brother is out and about finally. Taylor dragged you, huh?" Elliot teased as he pushed a drink towards Christian. "Mom told me about your day today; I thought you would want this."
Rolling his eyes, Christian took a drink of the whiskey before looking back at his brother. He could only imagine what Grace Grey uttered about him to his brother; it caused the actor to snicker a bit. "Neither of them were keen on the event. Mom was close to disowning me because of my actions towards my co-star. But it's not without merit. I was a dick."
Elliot laughed as another server came over; it wasn't the same one as before; it was now a young woman who seemed to be a fan of Christians. "Oh my god, I cannot believe I picked up this shift! I've been dying to meet you since I saw you in Finding Venus. I just can't believe I've gotten to see two of my favorite stars tonight and then I found out you both are staring in a movie together!" Christian's eyes found hers for the first time. Ana's here? He thought to himself as he looked around for any sign of her. "Oh god, I'm sorry I'm babbling away. So silly. I'll get your food."
Elliot noticed his brother's attention branched away from the table and fell around the room. "Earth to Christian…" Elliot nudged his brother until his focus was back on him. "What the hell, man? You could've easily snagged a date with the server. Well, since you don't do commitment, you'd at least have a bedmate." Snickering, he chugged down his whiskey and coke before he found where his brother's eyes stopped. "Oh, you have your eyes on someone else?"
Christian watched as Ana and her manager Kate were enjoying their dinner. It was strange. He'd met the girl once, but here he is, obsessed with talking to her again. There was something about her that again captured his eye and pulled him in. Maybe it was because she was innocent in a sea of fake La life, or maybe it was her passion that set him on fire; there was just something that it tempted him to explore and want to know more. "I'm going to go over there and apologize." Elliot looked over at his brother in shock. This wasn't him… must be the whiskey he'd been sipping on. "I know I sound crazy."
"I think you're trying to get back in dad's good graces before you see him tomorrow. You know they'll get over it, right?" Truly, it was weird for him to be the voice of reason. Elliot truly wanted to bro out with his brother, but he couldn't imagine him being so insistent towards a woman he worked with, especially after the mess he made with Elena. After the way it came out in the tabloids about his relationship with Elena, it was a sick and twisted way that her team used him.
Before their relationship Elena was a tv actress, hardly in any movies, but she still was making a name for herself; that all changed when Elena finally got a big role. This could've been the end, but sure enough, she continued to play a game that Christian didn't know he was playing. It wasn't until Mia found out down the line that she was selling and setting up tabloid stories by leaking their location every time they went out. It went against everything Christian was attempting to do by separating his personal and fame life; that obviously didn't fit her narrative. It came to a head after Elena showed up at Christian's secret home away from the city with paps following not too far behind. For weeks, they stalked and attempted to breach every corner of his house.
Yes, He knew what he was signing up for; his dad and mom were both famous when he came into their lives when he was a young boy; yet they knew how to keep their kids safe and away from the crazy life that fame brought. That is what Christian dreamed of… he wouldn't admit it, but there was someone maybe out there for him. "Christian?" Christian shook his head back to reality. Eyes focused on his brother, Christian realized his day dreaming had gone on longer than expected. "Uh, while you were daydreaming about god knows, your costar's friend has been making eyes at the table. I think you hiding in the corner isn't exactly working. I'm going to visit the bar here. Why don't you see if you two can play nice?" Elliot laughed before moving away from the table. Raking his fingers through the usually perfect hair, he knew he was in the wrong, but it scared him how this girl got under his skin.
"Are you going to keep staring at me or are you going to do something?" Ana's eyes bore into his as she stood next to him. "Can I sit with you?" Ana asked, biting her lip nervously. Christian just nodded before extending his hand for her to join. "I know we started off on the wrong foot, but I hope we can move forward. I know we shoot soon, so I don't want there to be any awkward tension. We're supposed to be romantic partners and I don't want to be one of those experiences where it's hostile on set for anyone especially you."
"I was out of line and I'm sorry… I shouldn't have gone off and assumed anything about you. I want to have a healthy partnership together. I am truly sorry, Anastasia." Ana stared at the man across from her cautiously. She didn't want to have any hesitation. She knew his reputation; of course, she'd seen the magazines, and she watched entertainment news like everyone else. There was something else behind those eyes. A deep mystery that invited him in. "Can we start over?" He asked cautiously.
After a brief pause, she extended her hand with a smile. "Hi, I'm Ana… I'm going to be your costar."
"Christian Grey… It's nice to meet you Ana." Christian for the first time touched Ana's hand. A race of electricity hit both of them like a wildfire. At the moment, the world erased and Christian found brown eyes staring back at him.
As quick as the moment started, it was over and Ana couldn't filter out what she wanted to say next. "Grey… I know that name. If I remember right, I think we're going to be in a movie together?" Ana's cheeks bloomed into a sweet crimson red.
Christian raked his hand nervously through his hair before looking back at the blushing brunette. She differed from what he expected from their first meeting. But then again, he was an ass. This truly felt different from other people. Christian was beyond over the usual Hollywood types. Ana was a fresh face and kind-spirited. He just wanted to protect her; it was a pull that he couldn't explain. "I think you're right. We're going to be traveling to New York, London and Ireland; I think dad just squeezed in Britain as an excuse to take my mom back to where they fell in love." Ana watched as Christian's smile was a sense of longing and happiness. "It's beautiful out there."
"I've never been." She admitted as both of them smiled at one another. Ana giggled seeing how intense he was watching her movements. "What? I thought we covered how staring isn't always cool."
"I just want to know you better?" Letting the world go around them, they couldn't stop talking.
One week later,
"Ana Steele, I swear to god if you do not come out of there, I will drag you out by those brown locks of yours. Your limo is almost here and I do not want to be on Jane's bad side." Kate rubbed her freshly made face, frustrated with her best friend. Today was the Golden Globes, and here Kate was pacing the hotel floor. "Ana, you look fine. The hair team did amazing, the makeup is perfect, all you needed to do is put the dress on." Kate grabbed her wineglass before sipping it. She understood why Ana was nervous, but this was out of her hands.
"I wouldn't be so stressed about my appearance if you and Jane wouldn't have sprung it on me last night that you wanted Christian and me to walk together. Kate… I cannot do this!" Last week, pictures of Ana and Christian sitting together at a restaurant had gone viral, which triggered an increase in chatter about the Burn movies. Something about costars dating drive the critics and fans crazy. But because of the increase in buzz, Carrick wanted to capitalize on the momentum and have Ana and Christian seen a bit more than he originally planned. Kate wasn't for this 100%, but as a businesswoman she wanted to see Ana get more shots in Hollywood and this was the best way.
Ana sat up in her bed with a cup of tea in hand, hair up and her glasses on when she turned on the tv. After a long day reading her script for First Burn and running around looking for a dress for the Golden Globes, all the actress wanted to do was sit and relax a bit. Flipping through the channels, Ana just wanted to catch up on some of her shows. This led her to switch to the Enetwork; she froze when she realized the picture on the screen was Ana and Christian talking two days prior at the restaurant. Ana put her drink down to study the picture…. Ana remembered leaning over and telling him something about Kate. They both were engaged in the conversation and laughing, which was weird since they had just had a disagreement before.
"Are Christian Grey and Anastasia Steele dating? Both camps are keeping quiet, but someone has loose lips and is stating the two of them are always together." The two hosts look over at one another before continuing to discuss the actor and actress. "This dinner was just the first." A picture of Christian walking out of a cafe where they were meeting with the rest of the cast. Shortly after, Ana walked out with her glasses on facing away from the flashing cameras. Ana wanted to scream at the TV; it wasn't a date. They were all getting together to go over the rest of the shooting schedule. Yet it was a thing in the media to take one moment and play it into a different light. She should've known that somehow it would become front-page news.
"I mean I'm for it, James! I mean come on. Hollywood's new it-girl and Hollywood's most sought Romeo; what a combo. I mean, they could seriously rule the world with the powerful energy, plus how lucky is she to land Christian Grey… He's like Hollywood royalty."
Reality hit her as Kate banged on the door again. Ana sighed before walking out in a dusty rose dress with a graceful scoop neckline that debuts the bodice while pretty cap sleeves accent the upper arms. Sculpting lines define a feminine fit along bust and midriff, and a silken band bedecks the waist. Sheer and solid layers flow along the skirt to a full-length hemline. A matching, open overskirt supplies surplus flutters from waist to feet. Ana's hair was long and wavey she embodied old Hollywood glam. Kate couldn't stop smiling; her best friend looked like a movie star. "Ana. You look amazing."
Ana scrunched her face before tucking a piece of hair behind her ear. "Can't I just skip this one? I don't wanna go." Ana frowned nervously. "I'm just really nervous about this. I mean…" Ana didn't want to admit it, but Christian made her nervous and it was weird. The conversation they had last week still replayed as she looked away from her friend.
"So tell me, if you could be anywhere, where would you be?" Christian asked before taking a sip of his whiskey. The entire world melted as they looked at one another. After starting over with a simple handshake, Ana wanted to try to not judge him base on their first meeting.
Ana just chuckled and shrugged. "Singing on stage. I love singing… I used it for my therapy after loss. Or on the water. I have always loved the ocean. I just moved into a house on the water, I have this need to go into the water all the time. Somehow, I get dragged out for everything now. I just missing by the sea and be in my world." Shrugging, Ana just sighed and looked out into the ocean. "I'm just happy that where we're shooting has beautiful scenery, so I can attempt to write this song Kate seems to think would be a good idea."
Christian nodded; she couldn't believe that he was truly listening… it wasn't something normal from anyone outside her closest friends. "I've heard that you've got a beautiful voice; my mother and sister Mia both have seen you live. I'm sorry I haven't, but with you singing on the album, I'll finally be able to listen."
Kate went behind Ana to fix her dress; Kate just wanted her to get the full effect when she revealed her full look in the mirror. "Ana, you need to get over this. I understand your hesitation, but as you said, he isn't a bad guy. Just hang out with him. What is the worst that can happen? You two have a good time with free food and then the big afterparty where you and I can finally meet Leo… And you know I've been dreaming of that man…" Ana couldn't stop smiling at the way Kate always knew how to calm her nerves. "Plus, I got this hella pretty dress for the red carpet of the party."
"Okay Kate, I get it." Moving to the mirror, Ana couldn't stop herself from looking mesmerized by her reflection. The makeup was minimal but brought out her soft skin ever so beautifully. Ana had a lot of confidence, but this was truly the first time she'd seen herself clearly in a while. "What time is he coming to my room?"
Knock Knock… Ana's heart stopped a bit before Kate's knowing smile beamed. Ana looked at herself once more before moving to the door; deep breaths, she reminded herself before opening the door. Christian wasn't ready for what it revealed to him. Ana was beautiful before, but seeing her in this beautiful dress was breathtaking. "It's okay to speak Christian. I know she's beautiful, but you two have to get going. You're due to walk the red carpet in a bit and even though it's not far, I need you both on time. Chat in the limo and all that, but no messing up her dress or face."
"Hey Christian." Ana ignored her best friend as she stared back at him. "You look dashing."
Christian smiled as he stepped forward, kissing her hand. "I think your friend is going to have a heart attack if we don't leave on time." Christian nudged his head in her direction; he couldn't keep his eyes off of her beauty and but something deeper caught his eyes. Ana giggled as he took her hand; she was trying to keep her head on straight with all the feelings rumbling inside of her.
Thankfully, the venue wasn't too far from the hotel, but the ten-minute drive seemed to have felt like forever in the silence between them. "So…" Biting her lip, Ana looked over at Christian as he messed with his tie nervously. She couldn't help but smile. "You seem nervous… I would think you would be pretty seasoned with walking these. I'm nervous as all hell, but you shouldn't be right?" Ana shook her head before leaning in, helping him with the tie.
"Between you and me, I will never get used to these. I walk them usually alone and just push through it." Christian smiled as he looked down at her hands, fumbling with his tie. "I just… tonight is different, I guess."
Ana beamed as she finished her work. "There you go. No need to fidget." Ana squeezed his hand tightly before realizing. "Sorry… I didn't mean to do that." As she bit her lip, she apprehensively looked outside. "I get you having nerves. I've never done this before. I've walked small red carpets, but usually, I'm alone and the focus isn't on me; I feel like that's going to change suddenly." Ana shrugged, fidgeting with her anxiety ring. Christian just smiled and squeezed her hand back. Relief hit she didn't understand herself what feelings she was having, but it was a comfort that she would engage in.
Before either could say anything, the limo pulled up to the event. "No matter what, Ana, just focus on me. The bright lights will distract you, possibly give you anxiety… when you feel like it's happening, just squeeze my finger. Just relax and squeeze. I got you, partner." With one last dashing smile, Christian quickly exited the car to open hers.
Within seconds, Ana's heart jumped at the sound of screaming fans. "Miss Steele, Mr. Grey. I'll be your guide down the carpet. The movie PR team wants you both to do two interviews with E! and Daily News. We will then escort you to your table with your parents and sister. We're going to walk down the carpet, E! is first, but your PR team wants you to get a few good shots of the two of you down the carpet."
Both of them quickly agreed before the guide walked ahead of them. "Relax, it is just you and me… focus." Christian leaned in close to ease Ana's nerves. The flashing lights hit their eyes; the closeness was allowing her to ease into everything. "You know, this is the first time I've had a partner on the red carpet. I might have to make this a regular thing." Christian watched as Ana's lips curved into one of the sweetest smiles he'd ever seen. At this moment, everything and everyone faded and the only sound he heard was her laughter. It was pure and beautiful; something Hollywood lacked. It was the very thing that drew him into wanting to know the real Anastasia.
Moving down the carpet, Christian kept a protective arm around Ana. They'd spent most of the time just laughing and enjoying one another's company; even as people watched them closely, they just focused on one another. It wasn't until they made their way to the first interview did they fall back into reality. Ana's heartbeat quickly increased as they waited for Ryan Seacrest to call them up. "Just remember to squeeze if it gets too overwhelming." Christian pushed a piece of hair behind Ana's ear.
"Well, it looks like we're in for a treat. The stars of the Burn trilogy are here!" Ryan smiled before motioning for Ana and Christian to join him. "Welcome both Anastasia Steele and Christian Grey!" Both smiled and waved to the crowd and camera. Ana could feel the nerves hitting quickly; she couldn't explain it. She didn't mind interviews, but something about this caused her nerves to shoot. Thankfully, Christian could feel it and instantly wrapped his arm again casually. "It's so nice to see both of you! Both looking amazing, if I can add."
Ana's cheeks instantly went red as Christian nodded in Ryan's direction
Christian couldn't help but stare at the beauty next to him. "I think that's one way to describe Anastasia." Ana shook her head, trying to hide the crimson flush of her cheeks.
"So tell us, what's going on with the Burn trilogy? With it being the most anticipated book to a movie coming out next year; is there anything you can tell us about the upcoming movie?" Christian was trying to focus on the question, but something was buzzing around them. It was weird, the electricity flowing around him. It was nice to feel something other than distress when around someone. He knew he needed to stay away, to not crush on her by any degree, but he couldn't stop it. In the short time, it was like a high that he would take over any drugs out there.
Ana could feel Christian tense up; with a quick reassuring glance, she tried to relax her own body. "It's going to be amazing going back to New York at some point. It'll also be the first time I've been that far out of the United States, but Christian and I both cannot wait to bring Liz and Anthony to life. The script is just beautiful for this project; I've read the books and Carrick did such an amazing job adapting the first book, and I am so excited for the world to get to see this movie."
Christian, impressed by Ana's response and carefree attitude, was enchanting and welcoming. Ryan moved to face Christian, which brought Christian out of his current mindset. "How is it working with your father? I mean, his work is truly a gift and this being his first romance movie; is he turning away from his usual craft, or is this just a one-time thing?"
"See, I think that's why my father is so great. He is constantly reinventing himself. This movie isn't just a romantic gene. He takes the idea of two people from different walks of life and shows them in a different light. It's an ode to falling in love, but also engaging in an adventure to find one's self." Ana was hanging onto every word Christian was saying. He spoke with such depth and passion; it was no wonder he was such an amazing actor. He drew you in with his deep respect and love for his art. "First Burn is taking a simple girl meets guy movie/book and turning it upside down. You watch Liz pulling away from everything she knew to take a journey of self-discovery. And Anthony has a passion that he wants to explore and, for once, he is stepping out of the box that his parents have laid for him. He's discovering what it's like to go against everything to find his happiness without his parents' control. It's more than a love story, it's everything in between. Some would argue, is it a love story? Or is that part of the Burn?"
"If I could drop these mics, I would. I have to go read those books again." It took aback Ryan how Christian described the movie. Not giving too much away, it still drew him into wanting to know more. "So I was wondering if the pictures that were going around of the two of you this last week were a clue to if the pages became real?"
Ana looked at Christian with a soft smile before shrugging. "It's thrilling us both to bring these two characters to life. I'm very lucky to do this project with such an amazing actor and someone who I trust to be the best partner in this crazy trilogy."
"She couldn't have said it better. We're fantastic friends and hope that this journey allows us to embark on the same self-discovery that Liz and Anthony embark on before meeting one another." Christian didn't know what either of their answers meant when not faced with cameras and questions, but he wanted to know more.
Following a few more questions, they were on their way down the carpet. Ana was posing a bit in her dress alone. Her mind couldn't stop replaying the interaction between herself and Christian. Something was stirring between them, and it was confusing. Two weeks of knowing each other and already these feelings are hitting? What was wrong with her? Overwhelmed by her thoughts, she began feeling a little dizzy. Keep breathing. She had to remind herself as the camera lights came back into view and she began moving back down the carpet to meet up with Christian. "You okay?" He asked with concern laced in his voice.
"Yeah sorry. Just forgot where I was for a second." She smiled as her cheeks flushed a deep red. She needed to get control over herself before she got too ahead of herself. They were about to be filming for a good part of the year and the last thing she wanted was to catch feelings and get disappointed later on. There was no way that this man would want something deeper than a hookup. Ana closed her eyes, trying to balance herself.
The whole evening was a blur; the award show went off without a hitch. Christian made her feel so comfortable. He was always checking in on her as they ate and talked to the people at their table. It was relaxing to talk about random stuff with Christian. He didn't seem to have any type of wall up in this atmosphere. Leaning in, he just stared into her eyes, mesmerizing. "What?" Ana nervously smiled.
Shaking his head, he just shrugged up at her. "Nothing, I just like looking at you sometimes. Especially when your friend isn't chewing my head off."
"In Kate's defense, you did just about lose your shit when I asked for a few days off the first time we met." Christian just let out the cutest boyish laugh. At this moment, she couldn't help but feel confused to a new degree.
Once the show was over, Ana was happy when they were finally back in the limo. She leaned back and took a deep breath. "God, that was a long three hours." Ana leaned back against the soft interior of the limo. It was a relief to know she didn't have to fake a smile for much longer. "I'm sorry, but I know the looks weren't just getting to me, Grey. I could see you messing with the tie that I attempted to fix." He just shrugged before switching on his phone. He seemed to be in his world. Not engaging in any conversation that she attempted to put on. Simple talks were no longer in Christian's wheelhouse suddenly.
Ana bit her lip, confused it had only been a few hours since they'd started talking. Sure, this wasn't the first time he'd acted weird towards her, but she thought it was a good time. Throughout the show, he'd held her hand a few times, even going as far as stealing glances at her when he thought she wasn't looking. It confused her to no end. Now here he is, diving deep into his phone, texting, hardly even looking at her. "Did you have a good night?" She asked curiously, wondering if he was going to reply. When nothing came out of his mouth, or any acknowledgment, Ana shook her head and grabbed her phone out of her purse.
I'm not going to the after-party Kate if I have to go with Christian. I don't know what happened, but since we got back in the limo, it was like a switch. I don't know what happened in the last four hours, but I'm not doing this hot and cold thing. Sending the message, she just shook her head at herself. She moved towards the divider to get the attention of the driver. This seems to have alerted Christian to her. Ignoring the sudden pull towards him, Ana knocked on the tinted window. "Miss. Steele, what can I do for you?" The kind driver smiled as he looked in the rearview mirror. It was night and day with the men in the car.
"Could you drop me off at my hotel before you take Mr. Grey to the after-party?" Ana's soft voice alerted no one to the internal frustration currently plaguing her mind. She would not give satisfaction to Christian. The hot and cold game wasn't exactly a girl's best friend.
The driver looked concerned with the request; knowing Kate, she gave him strict instructions to take her to the same hotel where the party was being held to change. "Miss. Steele…"
"I know, but I'm asking kindly to go back to the hotel." Ana was pushing a little harder. She could feel Christian's eyes boring into her skull. She didn't need to see the confusion to know he wanted to say something. After what seemed like forever, the driver nodded and turned down a side street. Leaning back, she took a deep breath. Her eyes moved around everywhere except where she could feel him.
Thankfully, she didn't have to wait long for the car to pull up next to the hotel. Grabbing her purse and phone, Ana took all her strength and faced Christian. "I am exhausted, and it doesn't seem like you care too much for my company, so I think I'm going to go. I hope you have a wonderful night though…" Sam the driver helped her out of the farthest door. They met her with a few looks, but it didn't matter. She wanted to strip herself of the dress and just lay in bed for the next few days before they went to Ireland to film the movie.
Please Read and Review! Thanks for everyone patiently waiting for the stories to be updated. It's been a struggle. Last year I endured losing both my grandpa and Uncle. So I'm trying to get back to my headspace of writing. Also, don't hate Christian yet. The next update will explain why he shut down a bit. Plus I hid a very important thing in this chapter and will be leaving important things in the next few chapters. Love you all!