Chapters of Trust
by
Ava LeBeau
Seven
"Well maybe the moment's just here now and I've got to face the truth, José. He's going to tear down the shop. Everything's ruined... I mean, that's it. Game over."
With his camera slung around his neck, José was in his element as they strolled through the neighborhood. Max trotted alongside them, his tail wagging as he darted ahead now and then, chasing after passing squirrels.
"Wow, look at this one," José said, pointing toward an elegant brick building adorned with ivy before he snapped a few shots, eager to capture the intricate details, muttering, "It's like a piece of art amidst all that concrete," as he lifted his camera.
"Mhmm," Ana smiled faintly but couldn't shake off the dread that weighed her down.
"Do you think there's anything we can do?" Ana asked, glancing at him with hopeful eyes, her thoughts drifting back to the future of her bookshop that felt increasingly threatened by Grey's vision for their quarter. "I mean, The Enchanted Page… it feels like everything is hanging by a thread."
José lowered his camera and looked at her, "I know it's tough, Ana." He smiled at her, "But don't worry. I'm here."
"I know," Anastasia said, her voice laced with sadness, unsure whether his mere support was enough.
All of a sudden, Max bounded ahead with uncontainable energy, his tiny legs moving in a blur as he chased after a fluttering leaf. Ana couldn't help but chuckle while Max barked excitedly as if the leave were a long-lost toy.
"Look at him go," she laughed, watching as Max pounced on the leaf only for it to dance away just out of reach.
"Mister Max sure is living his best life," José chuckled and snapped a quick photo of the dog mid-leap.
"I wish I could be just as carefree," Ana smiled softly, feeling a flicker of warmth in her chest as she watched Max tumble over himself in pursuit of another leaf. "And know how to find joy in the little things. But I simply can't stop worrying about the shop, José."
José's voice was steady and reassuring when he said, "I won't let fuckin' Christian Grey turn everything into soulless glass boxes."
He turned again to snap more photos of the building, intent to capture not just the beauty of their neighborhood but also its spirit. "We have to show people what they're losing," José said. "And The Enchanted Page is part of that story, Ana. It's a treasure. Your treasure."
Anastasia glanced at him, her heart swelling with gratitude but just as heavy with worry. "I just don't know how much longer we can hold on. Grey has plans for this area, and it feels like we're fighting more than just an uphill battle."
Max, sensing the shift in mood, trotted back to them and nudged Ana's leg with his nose, as if to say, "Hey, don't worry. I won't leave you alone."
Anastasia bent down to scratch behind his ears. "Oh well, you always know how to cheer me up, bud," she said, her smile returning as Max wagged his tail furiously.
"See? I guess Max really knows how joy can be found in the smallest moments," José said, raising his camera again. He couldn't resist capturing Anastasia's laughter as she played with the dog, even though he knew that Ana wasn't overly keen on being photographed but it was a moment he wanted to keep forever.
"José!" Anastasia exclaimed in mock protest, turning away slightly as he clicked the shutter. But her friend only grinned wider, secretly cherishing these candid glimpses of her happiness.
"Just one more," José insisted, adjusting his angle to catch the sunlight glinting off her hair. The way it framed her face made her look almost ethereal against the backdrop of autumn leaves.
"Christ, stop it! You know I hate having my picture taken," she laughed, trying to hide her face behind Max, lifting the dog up just a little to use him as some sort of shield.
"But you look amazing!" he countered, lowering the camera for a second to meet her eyes. There was something genuine in his gaze that made Ana pause—a warmth that made her furrow her brow.
But then the moment was gone and she rolled her eyes, unable to suppress a smile, though. "You're impossible."
"Maybe," he replied with a playful smirk before raising the camera again. "But I'm also right."
As they continued their walk, José gently wrapped his arm around Anastasia's shoulder and suddenly said, "We'll find ways to keep your bookshop alive in people's hearts, Ana—even if things change around us."
She nodded quietly, tears were welling up in her eyes and she avoided his gaze while they reached a small park nestled between two buildings.
"Come on, let's sit for a bit," he suggested, gesturing toward a weathered wooden bench under a sprawling oak tree. Ana nodded again, grateful for the chance to soak in the atmosphere—the sunlight filtering through the trees, children laughing as they played on swings, and couples strolling hand-in-hand along winding paths. It was a snapshot of life that reminded Anastasia why she loved this neighborhood so much.
As they settled onto the bench, José lifted his camera once more, this time aiming it at the juxtaposition of old and new architecture surrounding them.
"Now, look at that," he said, pointing to a particularly striking view where an ornate Victorian facade stood proudly next to a modern high-rise. "It's almost like they're having a conversation across time."
The park was bordered by a mix of historic brick buildings and sleek glass structures. Ana's friend snapped a few more photos, capturing the way the two styles coexisted—each telling its own story while contributing to the vibrant tapestry of their neighborhood.
Side-glancing at him, Anastasia said, "You really have an eye for this." She watched as he adjusted his lens to capture different angles, musing, "It's fascinating how these buildings can coexist, even if they seem so different."
"See! That's what I mean," José said. "Each has its own history, its own character."
He turned to her with a cheeky grin. "You know, you're like that old bookshop—full of stories and charm—while I'm more like this shiny new building," he added with mock seriousness, gesturing to the glass structure behind him.
Ana laughed, shaking her head. "You sure, José? I know that you've got plenty of stories to tell yourself."
He smiled at her compliment but quickly returned his focus to the scene before him. The give-and-take of light and shadow created an almost magical quality as he captured images of wrought-iron balconies entwined with creeping vines alongside sleek metal railings and expansive windows.
As they sat together, laughing over memories and Max's antics as he darted across the lawn, Ana felt a wave of calmness wash over her that she hadn't realized she needed. The weight of uncertainty began to lift like a fog and was replaced by the promise of a new tomorrow.
When Anastasia called out for Max, José glanced at his camera again and snapped one last photo of Ana. This time, he captured her genuine joy when the dog dashed toward them—the way her eyes sparkled and her slender hands moved expressively, luring the rascal dog in.
"Okay, that's it," José declared ceremoniously with a big grin on his face. "Think I've got enough material for my next exhibit."
The bar pulsed with energy, the thumping bass of the latest club hits echoing from the walls. Christian leaned casually against the polished mahogany bar. Beside him stood Elliot's best friend, Jack Hyde, and there was no denying that his carefree charm drew attention like a magnet wherever he went.
"Another round?" Jack asked, flashing a grin at the bartender as he slid their empty glasses forward.
"Make it doubles," Christian replied coolly over his shoulder, his eyes scanning the room. He was always on the lookout—whether for business opportunities or something more personal. Tonight, it was probably both.
As the bartender poured their drinks, Jack leaned closer, his blond hair falling into his face. "You know," he said to Christian, "That table over there is full of models. We should go introduce ourselves."
Grey smirked but didn't respond immediately. Instead, he took a sip of his fresh drink. Jack was right, the women at the table were stunning, the type of women who thrived in this world of excess.
"Let's do it," Christian finally said, setting down his glass with purpose. A rush of adrenaline made him feel heady and energized; nights like these were about more than just fun—they were all about power and conquest.
Jack clapped him on the back as they made their way across the bar, a wry grin on his face. "Just follow my lead."
Grey let out a derisive snort.
As they approached the table, Hyde flashed his trademark smile. "Ladies," he began smoothly, "mind if we join you?"
The women looked up. One of them—a striking blonde with piercing blue eyes—smiled back while the other chuckled subtly.
"Sure. We could use some entertainment."
Christian allowed Jack to take the lead while he maintained an air of aloofness that seemed to only add to his allure.
"I'm Chris," he introduced himself, extending a hand toward her.
"Sienna," she replied, shaking his hand firmly before glancing at Jack.
"And this is my friend Isla."
"Isla?" Jack arched an eyebrow, leaning closer to Christian, muttering, "Might've just found the perfect name for my new yacht."
Grey laughed huskily.
"So what brings you ladies out tonight? Looking for trouble?" Hyde's tone was playful yet suggestive.
Isla's eyes sparkled with interest.
Jack leaned against the table, a cocky grin plastered on his face as he surveyed the women before him. "You know, it's refreshing to see some girls out who can actually keep up with the nightlife."
"Right? I mean, what's the point of being young and beautiful if you're just going to waste it on Netflix?" Christian said, his gaze lingering on Sienna as if assessing her worth.
She shot him a playful glare. "Not all of us are into that," she retorted. "Some of us even have actual lives outside of this bar."
"Sure," Jack interjected smoothly, leaning in closer, resting his elbow on the bar table. "But let's be real—how many times have you been out and met someone like us? You know, successful guys who can actually take you places? I mean, we're not just here for a good time; we're here to elevate your evening."
"And what makes you think we need elevating? We were having a perfectly fine time before you two swooped in," Isla looked bored.
Jack feigned shock, placing a hand over his heart dramatically. "Oh no! A perfectly fine time? How tragic. You poor souls must have been so bored without our dazzling presence." He exchanged a knowing glance with Christian, both men reveling in their own bravado.
Christian couldn't help but add fuel to the fire. "Honestly, ladies, it's not every day you get approached by two guys who could probably buy this bar if we wanted to." He lowered his voice conspiratorially. "But don't worry; we won't make you pay for drinks tonight… unless you want to impress us."
The women exchanged glances—half amused and half annoyed. Sienna rolled her eyes but couldn't suppress a smile. "Wow, how generous of you."
"Yeah, well, it's not like we're out here trying to impress anyone," Hyde added with a wink at Sienna. "We just happen to be naturally charming and ridiculously good-looking." He ran his hand through his fair hair to smooth it back down.
"Anyway, Chris, what do you do for work? You seem… well, let's just say you have that 'I'm important' vibe going on," Sienna said.
Christian feigned a thoughtful expression, yet a smirk playing at the corners of his mouth. "Oh, you know," he began nonchalantly and shrugged, "just the usual corporate grind. I work in marketing for a tech company. Lots of spreadsheets and conference calls."
Jack stifled a laugh beside him, clearly enjoying the charade. "Marketing? How thrilling," he stated with mock enthusiasm. "Do you get to wear a tie every day?"
"Only on special occasions," Christian replied with a straight face. "But really, it's all about managing client expectations and making sure our quarterly reports look good."
Isla arched an eyebrow. "Really? You don't strike me as the cubicle type."
Christian shrugged again, maintaining his facade. "What can I say? I'm just a regular guy trying to make my way in the world." He glanced at Jack, who was barely containing his laughter.
"Yeah, Chris here is basically a corporate warrior," Hyde said with exaggerated seriousness. "He fights battles over PowerPoint presentations and coffee runs."
"Exactly," Christian added with a smirk. "It's not glamorous work by any means." He paused for effect before adding with faux humility, "But let's be honest here, someone has to do it."
Sienna crossed her arms, still unconvinced but unable to prove otherwise. "Right… So you're telling me that's all there is to it? No secret side hustles or hidden talents?"
"None whatsoever," Christian replied smoothly, his eyes glinting with mischief. "Just your average nine-to-five boy next door... living for the weekend."
"You know," Jack said to Sienna and Isla, struggling to keep a straight face, "it's refreshing to meet someone who embraces mediocrity so wholeheartedly."
Sienna rolled her eyes but couldn't suppress a smile. "Well played," she admitted reluctantly.
"Thanks," Jack replied with a wink. "We aim to please."
"So, if I'm just your average cubicle guy, what about you two?" Christian enquired. "You're models, right? That's got to be way more exciting than my life of spreadsheets and caffè latte breaks."
Sienna exchanged a glance with Isla before she said. "Yeah, it has its moments," there was a hint of pride in her voice. "But it's not all glitz and glamor. It's long hours and a lot of waiting around."
"Sounds like a dream job," Jack interjected with mock seriousness. "I mean, who wouldn't want to spend their days posing for pictures and strutting down runways?" He took a drink from his tumbler, the ice cubes clanking against the thick glass. "So, what's the craziest gig you've ever had?"
"Oh, actually… there've been plenty. But I think the wildest was when we did a shoot on a yacht in the middle of the ocean. The waves were insane, and we were trying not to fall overboard while looking effortlessly fabulous," Isla chuckled.
"Now that sounds like an adventure," Christian said casually. "And lots of seasickness," he laughed.
"Right? And here I am stuck in meetings about quarterly projections while you are out there living your best lives, ladies." Hyde flashed them a charming smile. "Maybe I should consider a career change?"
Sienna smirked but couldn't resist playing along. "You'd probably make a great model with that confidence of yours, Jack." For a moment, her gaze darted to Christian across the table.
"Ha! Thanks." Jack laughed as if he were considering it seriously, raking his fingers through his hair as he relaxed back into his seat. "But let's be real—I'm much better suited for this whole 'macho alpha' thing."
A fleeting twinge of jealousy clawed at Christian's insides as Jack flexed his biceps playfully. It seemed Hyde had upped his workout game. Absently, Christian ran his hand over his own perfectly flat abs, determined to redirect the attention back to himself.
"Anyway, tell me more about your modeling careers—what's the best part? The travel? The free clothes?"
Sienna shrugged. "Honestly? It's nice to see new places and meet interesting people. But sometimes it feels like we're just props for someone else's vision." She paused, her expression turning thoughtful. "It can be exhilarating to walk the runway or pose for a campaign, but there are days when it feels like we're just part of a larger machine, and our individuality gets lost in the process."
Isla nodded, adding, "Right... We put so much effort into it, but at times it's hard to remember that we're more than just faces. It's about finding that balance between being a canvas for someone else's art and expressing who we truly are."
Sienna took a sip from her drink, a knowing smile on her face. "So, what do you two do when you're not pretending to be corporate warriors?"
Jack lowered his voice as if he were to share a great secret, "Well, Chris here and I have a shared passion for supercars," his voice was laced with an exaggerated air of sophistication. "You know, the kind that goes from zero to sixty before you've even got your seatbelt on."
"Oh really?" Isla asked, feigning interest while clearly seeing through their act, her gaze drifting to the expensive watch on Christian's wrist. "And which ones do you own?"
Christian waved his hand dismissively. "Own?" He laughed, "We're just enthusiasts—dreamers. I mean, who can afford those things anyway?" He launched into an enthusiastic monologue about the latest models and their specs, gesturing animatedly as if he were presenting at a car show.
"Right? Like the new McLaren P1—what a beast," Jack, actually owning one himself, jumped in seamlessly. "The engineering is just mind-blowing." He glanced at Sienna and Isla, who were now exchanging amused glances as they tried to mask their boredom.
"Yeah," Sienna muttered, "sounds… thrilling." She took another sip of her drink. "So… any plans to actually drive one of these 'beasts' anytime soon?"
Christian shrugged nonchalantly. "Oh, you know how it is—just waiting for my big break in marketing before I can afford one." A cheeky grin ghosted across his features.
The women laughed again, clearly enjoying themselves despite the obvious ruse.
"Alright then," Sienna said, grinning. "How about we switch gears? You guys seem like you could use a little excitement in your lives. What's the plan for tonight?"
Jack's grin widened, sensing an opportunity. "Well, since we're all about living on the edge—how about we buy you ladies some drinks? It's the least we can do after boring you with our 'cubicle' tales."
"Drinks sound great," Isla replied, her tone light but with a hint of mischief. Hyde got up and strutted over to the bar.
"But only if you promise to tell us more about your thrilling lives in marketing," Sienna added while Jack returned with their drinks.
"Deal." Christian said, raising his glass in mock celebration. "To spreadsheets and supercars."
Jack was about to launch into another story about their supposed adventures in the corporate world, the bar door swung open. In walked Elliot, shrugging out of his leather jacket, scanning the room before he spotted Christian and Jack at the table, his expression shifting from casual to amused as he approached.
"Hey. What's going on here?" Elliot asked, a smirk forming on his lips as he recognized Sienna and Isla and joined their table. "I see you've found some new friends."
Christian's eyes widened slightly at his brother's arrival; he hadn't expected him to show up so soon. "Elliot. Perfect timing," he said quickly. "We were just discussing our exciting lives in marketing."
Elliot raised an eyebrow skeptically but played along. "Oh really? I'd love to hear more about that." He turned to Sienna and Isla with a grin. "Are these two keeping you entertained?"
"They're doing their best," Sienna replied with a teasing smile, clearly enjoying the dynamic shift. "But I think they might need some help."
Jack cast Christian a quick glance before turning back to Elliot with forced enthusiasm. "Yeah. We were just talking about how thrilling it is to work in a cubicle all day."
Elliot chuckled knowingly, willing to play along for now. "Ah yes, nothing quite like the thrill of office supplies and microwaved lunches in the break room."
The women exchanged amused glances, clearly enjoying the unexpected twist that Elliot brought to the conversation and Sienna asked. "So, Elliot, are you also a 'cubicle warrior' like these two?"
Elliot laughed and shook his head. "Not quite. I'm more of a 'freelance consultant' type, you know. I get to work from wherever I want—coffee shops, beaches… even my couch sometimes. Also… I'm their boss." Nodding his chin toward Christian and Jack, Elliot smirked.
"Sounds like a dream," Isla said with a playful grin. "And you don't have to deal with boring meetings and endless emails?"
"Exactly! That's what Christian and Jack are for—I get to boss them around all day," Elliot said, leaning in. "Plus, I choose my own projects and work with cool people—like you two."
Jack tried to regain control of the conversation. "Well, we were just about to discuss our favorite supercars. You know, the ones we don't own but definitely know everything about."
Elliot raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. "Oh really? Let me guess—you're both experts on cars you've never driven?"
"Okay, okay," Jack conceded with a laugh. "You got us there. But we're still living vicariously through our knowledge."
Sienna sighed dramatically, "And here I thought we were talking to two exciting supercar enthusiasts. Turns out we've got wannabe office ninjas instead."
Christian feigned offense. "Hey now. Jack and I are multi-talented. We can talk about spreadsheets and supercars."
"Now that sounds like fun. But you've got to promise not to bore us with too many stats and figures," Sienna laughed.
"Alright," Christian said quickly, eager to keep the momentum going. "We'll stick to thrilling stories and maybe a few wild stunts—like how we almost got caught racing down Main Street last week."
Elliot raised an eyebrow skeptically but played along. "Oh really? You two were racing? With Jack's old clunker? I'd love to hear more about that… or should I say not hear more about it when the cops showed up?"
The women burst into laughter at the thought of Jack and Christian trying to outrun imaginary police cars while still managing their corporate personas. Isla took a sip of her drink and looked around the bar. "You know what would make this night even better? A little karaoke action… Who's up for it?"
Jack perked up at the idea. "Karaoke? Count me in. I've been told I have the voice of an angel… or maybe a very enthusiastic goat."
Elliot grimaced. "An angel or a goat? That's quite the range you've got there, Jack."
"Angel? More like a tone-deaf sparrow," Christian added with a chuckle.
"Hey, it's all about versatility, man," Jack retorted with a grin.
"I'm not sure if I'm ready for that level of talent," Christian said with mock hesitation.
Sienna laughed and nudged him playfully, causing Christian to wince ever so slightly. "Come on. It'll be fun. Besides, we can't let Jack steal the spotlight alone."
"Fine," Christian relented with a dramatic sigh; but suddenly he sounded stern. "But I need you to promise me this: no recording for social media."
"Okay," Sienna said, not noticing his sudden tension, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "No recordings… just pure, unfiltered fun."
Christian nodded slowly, but a flicker of concern crossed his face. He had always been cautious about his online presence, and the thought of being caught on camera—especially singing poorly—made him uneasy.
"Alright, let's do this," Jack exclaimed, practically jumping to his feet. "I'll go first… Prepare yourselves for a performance that will go down in history."
Elliot chuckled, shaking his head. "You're setting the bar high there, my friend. Just remember: it's all about having fun."
As they made their way to the karaoke stage, Isla said to Christian. "You know you can't hide behind your 'serious corporate persona' forever, right? Let loose a little."
Christian forced a smile, trying to mask his growing annoyance. "Oh, I'm totally ready to let loose," he replied. "Just… not too loose," he added, more to himself.
Sienna grabbed the microphone first and announced dramatically, "Ladies and gentlemen. Prepare for the vocal stylings of our very own Jack—the man who claims to have the voice of an angel."
Hyde took center stage with exaggerated flair and began belting out a classic rock song. His enthusiasm was infectious, even if his pitch was slightly off-key. The group erupted into laughter as Jack danced around like he was at a sold-out concert.
Elliot leaned over to Christian, putting an arm around his brother's shoulder and whispered, "See? This is what it's all about—just having fun with friends, broski. Time to show us what you've got. Ready to earn some street cred?"
Christian raised an eyebrow and glanced at his brother, his gaze cold and unyielding. "No, I'm not," he replied flatly. "This is ridiculous."
"What? You can't just bail," Elliot chuckled, but his expression shifted to confusion when his brother broke away. "Come on, man. Just one song."
Christian straightened his posture and raked his fingers through his hair, his jaw clenching for a moment.
"What's the matter? Afraid we'll find out you can't carry a tune, Chrissy?" Elliot teased.
Christian cast his older brother a glare that could freeze fire. "I don't do karaoke," he stated firmly. "I have no interest in making a fool of myself. And stop calling me Chrissy."
"Oh come on." Elliot laughed, trying to hold Christian back as he turned away from the stage. "You're just being stubborn. Jack's right, it'll be fun."
"Fun?" Christian scoffed, his patience wearing thin rapidly. "You think I'm going to stand up there and entertain you two clowns, E? Not happenin'."
Jack joined them and stepped in front of Christian, his broad chest puffed out, arms crossed with a playful challenge in his eyes, before he glanced at Elliot for a second, tilting his head a little, "What's wrong?" He looked back at Christian again, "Scared we'll steal your spotlight, bro?"
"I'm not here to entertain anyone," Christian said coldly before turning to leave.
"Wait," Jack called after him, laughter still lacing his voice. "Don't be such a buzzkill. We know you love being the center of attention, man."
Christian shot his buddy a dismissive stare over his shoulder. "Not when it involves karaoke," he retorted before pushing through the crowd toward their table. As he reached it, he paused just long enough to toss some cash onto the tabletop—more than enough to cover their drinks— before he stepped out of the bar.
The sounds of laughter and music faded behind him as he walked away with purpose, irritation and frustration simmering beneath his composed exterior, his square jaw clenching again. Christian didn't look back. He had no interest in engaging further; he preferred to maintain control over his image and surroundings. This was how things should be—on his terms and without any unnecessary distractions. After all, some things were simply beneath him—and karaoke was definitely one of them.
The buzz of laughter engulfed them while fairy lights cast a soft ambiance over their wooden table in the corner of the bar. Ana swirled her glass of Pinot Noir and took a sip, eyeing the assortment of finger food as she leaned back in her chair.
"So, how was your week?" She asked.
Hannah smiled, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Oh, you know, just the usual chaos at the shop. But I must say I did have quite an interesting visitor the other day."
Anastasia raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Oh? Who?"
"Christian Grey," Hannah said casually, spearing an olive with her fork.
Ana nearly choked on her wine. "Grey?" Her eyes grew wide before a frown crept across her face. "The pompous jerk who wants to bulldoze my bookshop…"
"Yep," Hannah replied nonchalantly, trying to suppress a grin.
"And did he want to discuss his plans again?" Anastasia sipped her wine, staring at Hannah over the rim of her glass.
"Actually, he showed up pretending to want book recommendations from you."
"Oh, really?" Anastasia frowned. "And what did he want? A guide on how to be less obnoxious?"
Hannah chuckled softly. "Not quite. He was actually looking for something to read and I couldn't resist teasing him a bit. I suggested a romance novel about a brooding billionaire—very fitting for him, don't you think?"
Ana laughed despite herself. "You didn't!"
"I absolutely did!" Hannah grinned. "He took it surprisingly well, though. You should have seen his face when I mentioned it."
Anastasia shook her head in disbelief but felt a flicker of curiosity creeping in. "So he was just playing nice then? No real discussion about his plans?"
Hannah shrugged playfully. "Let's just say he kept things vague. Plus he bought the book," she laughed. "But he seemed genuinely interested in your thoughts on books—maybe there's more to him than just his perfectly coiffed hair and designer suits?"
Ana smirked, crossing her arms defiantly again. "You're really trying to sell me on this guy, aren't you?"
"Just saying," Hannah continued smoothly, leaning in closer as if sharing a secret. "I was thinking, Ana… What if you could get him to see you as more than just the owner of the ole bookshop he wants to bulldoze so desperately? It could be an opportunity for you—maybe even some fun."
"Fun?" Ana scoffed, shaking her head. "With Grey? No thanks, Hannah. I guess, I'd rather stick pins in my eyes."
"Oh come on, Ana. You have to admit he's not just a pretty face. He's got that whole brooding billionaire thing going on. And let's be real—he could use a little charm in his life."
Anastasia let out a dismissive snort, "Grey's arrogant, full of himself, and completely out of touch with reality. He doesn't care about people like you and me—just his big, fat bottom line."
"But what if you could change his mind?" Hannah pressed. "What if you could show him the value of your shop? You might surprise yourself—and Grey."
Ana rolled her eyes dramatically, clearly unimpressed. "Oh, totally! Because nothing screams 'let's spill the beans and be honest' like a billionaire in a perfectly tailored suit trying to steamroll my life. You know, I can just see it now: 'Hey there, sweetie, let me work my charm and convince you not to crush my dreams!' And while I'm at it, maybe I'll toss in a compliment about those unsettling gray eyes and that ridiculously masculine jawline that practically screams, 'Getting my way is just part of the package, baby.' Oh, and did I mention how much I can't stand that stupid pout of his? And don't even get me started on that perfect five o'clock shadow—ugh, please." Anastasia drained her glass and cast a glance at Hannah.
Hannah couldn't help but laugh. "Come on, he's pretty handsome and refined."
"Handsome?" Ana asked with a smirk, tilting her head slightly, her thoughts darting to Grey and their encounter at the café. "More like a master manipulator in fancy clothes. Just because he has those intense eyes that look like they can see right through you doesn't mean I'm gonna swoon over him like he's used to. Actually, he looks like he just walked off the cover of 'Men Who Are Beyond Impossible to Please.'"
Now Hannah was laughing for real. "Okay, okay. But you've gotta admit he's got some charm."
Ana rolled her eyes again. "I really think this is just his way of disarming people before he wrecks their lives. So, like, what's not to love, right?"
"Wow," Hannah said between giggles. "You really have this all figured out."
Ana grinned but quickly returned to her serious demeanor. "Well, thanks for the pep talk, Hannah, but I'm not interested in getting involved with someone like him—not now, not ever."
A/N: Whole new ball game for Jack Hyde, I guess. I hope you enjoyed my new chapter. As always I'm looking forward to your reviews. Let me know what you think. Thank you!