Chapter 16

Ana

"Sorry, Dad, but I won't be able to deliver lunches to the workshop any longer," she said. Today she was decluttering, dusting, vacuuming, and cooking. The Greys would be arriving in less than twenty-four hours and she'd give them nothing to criticize.

"Too spoiled, am I?" he asked, quirking a brow.

"It's not that I don't want to spoil you," she said, moving a microfiber cloth quickly across an end table. "I'm too spooked to leave Kit in the house alone, even with the monitor. I'm terrified to even step out on the back porch without him in my arms. That's why you'll have to come inside to eat lunch."

"I understand your worries, sweetheart, but that son of a bitch Grey wouldn't dare show his sorry ass around here." Her father was taking a break, stretched out on his ancient recliner with Kit asleep on his chest. A rough protective hand held the baby in place.

"I'm more concerned about all the crazies who are now aware that a billionaire's baby lives here. Thank goodness for Prescott and Osbourne. And sorry to crush your fantasy of a Christian Grey Free Zone, but I've filed the paperwork to have the No Contact Order removed. That lawyer friend of Ethan's sent me the form and he's following up for me. Once the order is removed, you might be seeing quite a bit of Christian."

Or maybe not, she thought. We'll see just how devoted a father he wants to be.

"Hell… Thanks for the warning. I'm ready for him. Just bought a new box of shotgun shells." Her father scowled at every mention of Christian, with today being no exception. "And tell me again why I have to waste my time meeting that asshole's family."

"It's because they have grandparent rights. I explained all that."

To be fair, she hadn't given her father much of an explanation. He deserved better, but she had no desire to explain Christian's problems and how Elena Lincoln fit into the picture.

"It's a matter of trust," she continued. "They're coming to our house, because I insist on supervised visitation. It's the same with Christian. The only people I'll allow to be alone with Kit are you and Kate. I don't want the Greys alone with my son for even a moment."

"Why the hell not? Isn't Grey's mama a pediatrician?"

Her father had every reason to be confused.

"Yes," Ana said. "Grace Grey is a well-regarded pediatrician."

"If you can't trust a pediatrician with your baby, who can you trust?" Her father tilted his head to the side, pursed his lips, and launched into one of his little rants. "Explain it to me. And why do they have to come here? I'm not looking forward to this. You know I don't like crowds. I need my peace and quiet. And on top of that, you make these folks sound strange. Who all's coming?"

"Grace, Carrick, and Mia Grey. Christian's parents and his sister. Not exactly a crowd and not exactly strange." Ana chuckled at her father's mischaracterization. "Grace wanted to bring along her parents, but I explained how we don't have enough seating. Kate's coming along, too, though she's arriving earlier and might be gone by the time the Greys arrive."

"I'm grateful for Kate. That makes one Kavanagh and two-and-a-half Steeles versus three Greys. In a rumble, I feel confident we can take them down." Her dad smiled. "I saw the trays of lasagna. Your food is always a winner. I know Grey's daddy is a lawyer… and you know how I hate lawyers… but why do these Greys need supervision?"

"It's a long story," she said, trying to put him off. He hated long winded explanations.

"Try me," he said. "I have time."

Ana laid the dust cloth on the coffee table and perched on the edge of the well-worn sofa.

"I don't know everything," she said. "But I'll tell you what I do know. All the Grey children are adopted. Christian was adopted when he was four. I'm don't know the particulars. He never shared that with me. I do know that when he was fifteen, he was sexually, physically, and emotionally abused."

"By his parents?" Her dad grimaced in disgust. "Jesus, that's sick."

"No, not the Greys. But it seems they trusted a friend to spend time with Christian and the friend raped him when he was fifteen. They gave access to this woman and she did unspeakable things to him. She is Grace's best friend, lives in their neighborhood, and spends a great deal of time with the Greys. I'm not supposed to know her name, but I figured it out from things Kate told me while she was dating Christian's brother."

"Does Kate know all this?"

"No. I haven't shared it with her yet. You're the only person I've told. Please keep it to yourself."

"Okay," he said reluctantly. "But I'd like to kill this woman right now."

"You and me both," she said.

She reached into her apron pocket and removed her phone.

"Kate sent me this a few months ago." She pulled up the video, pushed play, and held it up for her dad's viewing.

"The blonde?" He asked.

"Yes."

"She's gorgeous." Her father never spoke of women's appearances. She'd never even heard him compliment her mother while they were married, so hearing his endorsement of Mrs. Lincoln's allure made her hate the woman even more.

"She is. As much as I don't want to acknowledge it, I can understand how a teenaged boy would become obsessed with her."

"She's young," he said.

"Forty-five. But she could easily pass for a decade younger."

"Does she have a name?"

"Elena Lincoln. She owns some beauty salons, purchased after her divorce."

"How did you learn about the sexual abuse? Who told you?" Her father asked.

It was a natural question, one she hadn't anticipated.

"In the course of asking Christian some questions, he told me," she said. "He doesn't see her as an abuser. He thinks of her as a savior."

"That's messed up… How did you know to ask him questions?"

Crap.

She wondered how to explain without getting into anything sexual.

"Christian said and did some things that didn't feel right," she said. "I asked him where he learned those things and he said his mother's friend introduced him."

"Sexual things?" He asked without a hint of embarrassment.

Since Ana's pregnancy and delivery of Kit, she had learned to discuss many things with her parents, things she'd never dreamed they would share. But even still, this felt uncomfortable for her.

"Yes," she said. "I was uncomfortable with some of Christian's sexual practices and asked him where he'd learned those things. That's when he told me about his mother's friend, a mysterious older woman."

"Is that why you broke it off?"

"That was part of it. As fond of him as I was, I just couldn't see the relationship going anywhere."

Her father nodded thoughtfully.

"Lincoln," he said. "There was a fellow by that name who used to own land around here. Was her husband in timber?"

"Yes, that would be her ex."

"Are the Greys stupid?" He asked. "Why would they keep spending time with her? Do they not know what she's done?"

"Christian refuses to tell his family about her. As far as they're concerned, she's a wonderful friend and mentor to their son. Kate found out through Elliot that the Lincoln woman has known Christian since he was six. The Lincolns and the Greys moved into their Bellevue neighborhood around the same time. So by my reckoning, twenty-two years ago she began grooming the Grey family, with Christian paying the price."

"We're entertaining the Greys because you don't want Elena Lincoln around Kit… is that the bottom line?"

"Yes," she said. "And before you tell me the obvious, that I should blow the whistle on Mrs. Lincoln, please know that Christian and I have a deal. I've given him ninety days to figure out how to tell his parents about the abuse."

"That's too damn long," her dad groaned.

"Yes, I regret it now. I should have forced him into a two week window. I really don't want to be entertaining the Greys every Saturday for the next three months. I'm exhausted by the very prospect of it."

"Why did you agree to ninety days? Tell him you've changed your mind."

"He has this thing about needing to feel in control. If I can make him think he has some choice in the matter, I think it will make things easier all the way around."

"Child, offered an inch, men like that will take more than a mile. You know, as much as I dislike that asshole, I've been thinking about Kit's birth certificate. I think you should change the surname from Steele to Grey."

"Not you, too." Ana sighed and resumed her dusting. "I've been hearing it from Christian's dad. I'm not completely opposed to it, but until Christian steps up and acts like Kit's father, I'm not budging. What brought this on?"

"I'm old-fashioned. A kid should carry his father's surname. And beyond that, you have to think in practicalities. The Grey name carries weight in this part of the country. It's in Kit's best interests to officially be labelled a Grey."

Ana had to admit that her father had made a strong point. A good family name unlocks opportunities, nurtures relationships, and establishes a legacy. It's all well and good for Kit to become a self-made man, but there were obvious advantages conveyed with the Grey name.

"Like I said, I'll consider it at a later date," she said, putting off a decision. "I'm still emotionally raw from the kidnapping. I'm not sleeping well and I'm anxious. I suppose it's as good a time as any to let you know that I've engaged a therapist. Her office is in Seattle, but for now our sessions will be via phone. I'll try to schedule the calls while you're outside working."

"For now," her father repeated. "You said 'for now' the sessions will be on the phone. Does that mean you're considering my suggestion that you move to Seattle? You've got money for that now. Grey is good for something."

"I'm trying to force Christian to move to Montesano part-time," she said.

Her father's chest shook with mirth. He attempted to tamp down his signature cackle in an attempt not to disturb Kit's nap.

"Damn," he said. "No way can I see him living here. I'm trying to imagine him dining at the Busy Bee in one of his fancy suits."

"He has regular clothes. Well, designer versions of regular clothes," she laughed.

"I can't see him here. I think you should move back to Seattle. I'll miss you. Montesano is a fine place to bring up children, but there's nothing around here for you, not socially or employment-wise."

The crunch of gravel on the driveway alerted Ana and her father to a visitor. She peeked out the window to see that her car was being delivered.

"It's Ralph with my car," she said. "That was fast."

"Ralph delivers? That's a first," her father said.

"Christian arranged it, probably paid through the nose," she said. "I'll go out and speak to him. Be back in a minute."

She bustled around the kitchen, wearing Kit in a sling. She chatted with him as she chopped vegetables for the salad.

"Dinner's almost ready. Are you going to become one of those kids who's a picky eater? I hope not," she said. "Then you'd have to miss out on wonderful things like cucumbers and bell peppers. I do hope you'll share my love of beets and rutabagas."

Kit replied in little gurgles and grunts.

"I love it when you talk to me," she told him. "You're mommy's sweet boy."

She could hear her father talking to someone on the back porch. She couldn't make out the second voice. If it was one of her dad's buddies, there was a strong likelihood she'd be setting another plate.

After a couple of minutes the sounds of conversation stopped.

"Since we can't hear Grandpa anymore," she told Kit, "I hope that means our visitor has left. I"m really not in the mood for small talk this evening. How about you?"

Kit replied with a series of short coos.

"Good," she said. "I'm so glad we're of one mind. We've had way too much excitement lately. We need a quiet evening before your Grey family descends upon us tomorrow."

As she wiped down the counter, she heard the squeak of the back door hinges. As was her father's pattern, he always entered the house at half past five, ready for his dinner.

"The meatloaf needs just a few more minutes and then we can eat," she said without looking up. "You have time for a quick shower, if that was your plan."

Ana felt a sharp jab in her back.

"Stay quiet, don't turn around, and you won't get hurt." The voice was deep and raspy. "Hand over the kid."

Dad! Prescott and Osbourne! Where are they? No way in hell am I handing over Kit.

"How will I pass off my child if we aren't face-to-face?" She asked as calmly as she could.

Receiving no response, she gathered all her strength, folded her arms around Kit, then whirled around, delivering a knee to her assailant's groin.

"Elliot?" She gasped. "What in God's name are you doing?"

She had knocked him flat on the kitchen floor. He moaned and writhed in pain.

"Meet your jerk of an uncle," she told Kit, as Elliot cried in distress.

Ray walked into the scene baffled as to how his new acquaintance had ended up injured.

"You could help the man, Annie. What happened here?"

"Well, Dad, I guess you've met Elliot Grey, my former friend and current nemesis. He just pretended to have a weapon and kidnap Kit, which nearly scared me to death. In response, I kneed his privates, just the way you taught me."

Ray offered Elliot a hand and helped him to his feet.

"Is that right?" He asked Elliot.

"Yes, sir," Elliot squeaked. "It was meant to be funny, but both the joke and I landed with a thud. I apologize to both of you and ask your forgiveness."

"It's fine. Just don't do anything like that again," Ray said. "You're still staying for dinner, aren't you?"

"It's fine? Really?" Ana glared at her father. "It might be fine with you, Dad, but I'm still shaking. Does no one respect my feelings?"

"It was a sick, immature joke," Ray said. "But we can't stay tied up in our feelings. We'll be forever in conflict and that's not good for Kit."

"Says the man who wants to pulverize Kit's father." Ana felt in constant whiplash, her emotions in collision with everyone else's.

The timer for the meatloaf went off. She took a deep breath and tried to accept the current chaos that ruled her life. There was no point fighting it, she decided.

"Both of you wash up. Dinner's ready. I'll set another place."

"C'mon, kid." Her dad smacked Elliot's back in a manly show of affection. "Lemme show you the facilities."

As upset as she was with Christian, having Elliot in her childhood home made her miss Christian, though she wasn't quite sure what she was actually missing. The sex had to be it, because she'd forever be furious about the kidnapping.

When Elliot and her father returned to the kitchen table, she could see that the two of them got on well. Their speech patterns had a similar rhythm and their shared love of construction gave them plenty to discuss.

"Why are you in Montesano?" She asked. "Is this your first visit?"

"I'm here on behalf of a client who is considering building a home here. I've been in the area before. Dad brought us fishing and camping around these parts years ago."

"Who's your client?" Ray asked.

"I can't say." Elliot made a zipping motion across his lips.

"Could it be Christian?" She asked.

"I can neither confirm nor deny the identity of my client." Elliot's grin told her it was Christian. "However, I can say that he is very anxious to secure a new home with a Montesano zip code."

"Interesting. Do keep us informed," she said.

She placed Kit on the table in his bouncy seat directly across from Elliot. The table was small and only accommodated four chairs.

"When will you let me hold my nephew?" Elliot pouted. He smiled at Kit and got one in return.

"I'm still annoyed with you," she said. "Eat your dinner, then maybe I'll consider it."

"Look at that," Elliot said. "He hasn't stopped grinning. The kid actually has a personality. Kind of amazing since he's my brother's spawn."

Ray laughed heartily at this, but even though it was kind of funny, Ana didn't feel right joining in. As angry as she might be with Christian, she had no desire to joke at his expense.

"He's a good baby," Ray said. "Of course, Annie was a good baby, too. I like to think Kit got all his goodness from her."

"Ana is still a good baby," Elliot said with a wink. He reached out to give the bouncer a gentle shake. "And I know this little guy will turn out great. But you know my brother has his moments, too. Christian was dealt a bad hand, but he's done his best to rise above all that."

Ray dropped his fork and it clattered against his plate.

"What bad hand was that? From where I sit, he's had a cushy life. I know it's crass to talk about money, but your folks are well set. They were able to send you and your siblings to the best schools, take them interesting places, offer them opportunities most kids don't dare even dream about. Your family is the essence of the one percent."

"It's true we've had advantages, but Christian was four when my parents adopted him. Before coming to us he suffered untold abuse. He was mute for the first two years he lived with us."

What?! Why did Christian never tell me? Before Mrs. Lincoln got to him, there was someone else. Dear Lord!

She wanted details from Elliot, but was afraid to ask. She swallowed hard, not sure if she could handle the answer to the question she was about to ask.

"What kind of abuse?"

"Mom and Dad told me his birth mother was a drug addicted prostitute. She neglected him. He was malnourished when the cops found him with his mother's dead body. She'd overdosed and the stench of her body made the neighbors call the police. Her pimp had used Christian as an ashtray, so he had burns on his chest and back. That's why he has haphephobia."

The source of the scars.

Back when they'd been seeing each other, she'd tried her best to weasel that information out of Christian.

"What's haphephobia?" Her father asked.

"Fear of touch," Elliot said, reaching for the pepper grinder. "With my brother, it's very specific. He can't be touched on his upper torso, neither front nor back."

"Well, the happy-phobia or whatever it's called doesn't hold him back," Ray said drily. "After all, he was able to procreate."

Ana felt her face flush.

"Dad, please," she chastised.

"Just pointing out the obvious." Ray casually waved his fork in her direction. "I'm sorry he had to go through something so awful. But plenty of people go through traumatic things and they don't kidnap children."

"All I ask is that you try to meet my brother halfway," Elliot said. "Kit's arrival offers some normalcy to his life. Mia and I hope becoming a father will help him focus on getting better."

"I'll consider what you've told us," Ray said. "As usual, the meatloaf is delicious. Good job, Annie."

"Got that right," Elliot said, shoving a forkful of mashed potatoes into his mouth. "A home-cooked meal like this is a real treat."

"I'm so glad you're enjoying it," she replied. "When your family comes to visit tomorrow, I'm serving lasagna."

"Your lasagna is great. I missed your cooking after you moved away." His voice dropped to just above a whisper. "I love Katie, but she can barely boil water."

"You love her?" Elliot's declaration surprised her. "From your perspective, what happened between the two of you?"

She'd heard Kate's side, but maybe Elliot saw things differently.

"I didn't propose, but I tested the waters, talking up marriage and kids. We were exclusive and I wanted her to move in with me. I guess she felt pressured. She broke it off, saying things were moving too fast. She said she loved me, but she wasn't ready to settle down."

His version of events lined up with Kate's, so at least their communication seemed reasonably good. It was more than she could say about Christian and herself.

"The two of you seem perfect for each other, but maybe the timing is off," she said. "Have you been seeing anyone?"

Maybe there was hope yet for Kate and Elliot.

"Nah," Elliot said, shaking his head."My wick hasn't been wet since Katie gave me the heave-ho."

Ray's eyes went wide, which made Ana laugh out loud.

"Good to know," she said. "By the way, she's coming for a visit tomorrow morning."

"Really?" Elliot looked at her expectantly. "So if I spend the night here, I can see her tomorrow morning."

"I'm sorry, but there are only two bedrooms." She'd be happy for him to stay, but there really wasn't any comfortable place for him to sleep.

"I'll make a pallet on the floor. You'll hardly notice I'm around," he said. Eyes pleading for permission to stay, he looked back and forth between Ana and her father.

"Okay by me, but Annie has final say," Ray said.

"Fine," she acquiesced. "You can have the sofa or the floor, your choice."

"Cool beans," he said. "It's a sleepover… hey, does this mean we get to do each other's hair and talk about boys?"

Elliot's playful nature was a tonic for both Ana and her father.

"Absolutely not, but we can play Uno," Ray suggested with a laugh.

As she'd watched Elliot try to jam his six-foot-three frame into the sofa, she'd felt such pity for him that she offered to switch places. That's how he'd ended up in her room and she'd landed on the lumpy couch.

Her back and shoulders ached. It was going to be a long day. A shower and a cup of tea made her feel only marginally better.

She first fed Kit, then prepared omelets for Elliot and her father. After wolfing down his breakfast, her dad retreated to his workshop. She knew he'd spend most of the day, there, doing his best to avoid socializing with the Greys.

Elliot was a natural with Kit. He made funny voices and sang old Guns 'n Roses. Kit cooed and burbled right along with his uncle.

"You're so good with him," she said. "I guess you learned from taking care of Mia."

"No, I had no use for Mia. It was Christian who fussed over her."

"Really? I never would have guessed." She wondered why, if he had been so good with his baby sister, Christian acted downright fearful of Kit.

"He's gotten off to a rocky start, but he'll be a phenomenal father." Elliot said this without even a hint of doubt.

"I'm happy, and frankly, I'm relieved to hear your confidence," she said.

Both Ana and Elliot stopped to listen as a car approached on the gravel drive.

"It's Kate," she said. "You okay?"

"I think so," he said. "I just hope she's happy to see me."

"She has never said a negative word about you. It will be fine," she said. "I texted to let her know you'd be here. She wouldn't come if she had a problem with it."

Elliot nodded thoughtfully.

"I know you two want to visit, but I'd like to have some time alone with her, if that's okay."

"It's more than okay," she said. "I understand that you two need to catch up."

The back door creaked as it opened.

"Good morning," Kate called as she passed through the kitchen to the living room. Her eyes immediately landed on Elliot.

"Hello, stranger," he said. "I've missed you."

"Of course you have. I'm very missable," she said with a coquettish smile.

Kate hugged Ana, then took Kit from Elliot's arms.

"How's my favorite little man?" She said, holding the baby so that his head was nestled high on her shoulder. "Oh, you give the best snuggles."

"Would you like some coffee?" Ana asked her.

"No, thanks. I just need to sit with Kit for a few minutes."

Ana felt she needed to give the two exes a moment alone.

"Since you've got Kit, let me go check with Dad. Be back in a minute."

Her father would actually be annoyed if she showed up in the workshop, interrupting his work for no good reason. She decided to take a walk around the house and then up and down the driveway. After about five minutes, Osbourne walked out of his trailer and approached her.

"Is everything okay, Miss Steele?" He asked.

"Yes. Why do you ask?" Both Osbourne and Prescott were friendly and well-intentioned, but having them around was such an adjustment.

"I'm watching the cameras. I've never seen you walking around the house. Is this part of your normal routine?"

Great. He thinks I'm a weirdo.

"No," she said. "Why?"

"As your CPOs, it helps if we learn and understand your patterns and habits."

"I'm just taking a break and killing some time. Nothing is wrong."

"Good to know. Prescott and I understand you and your father aren't used to security personnel. It's a big adjustment for both of you. We're trying to stay out of the way."

"It's all very new, but we appreciate you being here. When do you take your meal breaks?"

"Both Prescott and I are ex-military. We're flexible," he said.

"I see," she said. "Would it be okay if I brought you some lasagna later in the day? I made quite a bit."

"That would be great," he said. "Thank you."

"Where's Prescott?" She asked.

"She's installing an extra camera on the back perimeter of the property," Osbourne said.

"I'll bring some lasagna for her, too. See you later," she said.

She'd been outside for about ten minutes, enough time for Kate and Elliot to break the ice.

"I'm back," she called, wanting to warn the two exes, just in case they were getting cozy. Ana smiled to herself. Even with Kit in her arms, Kate could figure out a way to make out with a man.

"Our little man is nodding off," Kate said. "I'll tuck him in for his morning nap."

"While you're doing that, I'll put Elliot to work," she said.

"At your service," Elliot said, jumping to attention. "What do you need, milady?"

"We need to move the furniture around a bit. I borrowed a card table and four folding chairs from a neighbor. They're stacked up in Dad's room. If you can bring them out and move the sofa around to make room for them, that would really help. I thought Dad, your parents, and I could sit at the kitchen table for lunch. I hope it's okay if I put you, Mia, and Kate at the card table."

"Whatever works," he said. "Is that your dad's room?" Elliot pointed at a closed door off the living room.

"Uh-huh," she said. "While you're doing that, I'll make the salad."

The Greys had said they would arrive between noon and one, so she had a couple of hours to prepare. They had wanted to arrive earlier, but Grace had morning hospital rounds.

Ana had prepared three large trays of lasagna and two cheesecakes the day prior. With the help of Kate and Elliot, the tables were set and the rest of the meal was ready. In the time left, Ana spruced up the bathroom one last time, while the newly reunited couple sat snuggled close on the sofa.

She walked to the back porch when she heard the car come up the driveway. Her father was the first to greet the Greys, walking from his workshop to meet them as they exited their SUV. She smiled to herself as she appraised that, at least initially, everyone was getting along. Her father shook hands with Carrick and motioned for the trio to follow him.

Mia raced to Ana, giving her a big hug.

"It's so good to see you again," Mia said. "I can't wait to meet Kit."

"I'm so glad you came," Ana said. There was something sweet and guileless about Mia; she hoped they could become friends. "Kate and Elliot are in the living room. Make yourself at home."

"I saw Kate's car. Does this mean what I hope it means? Are they back together?" Mia asked.

"Let's not jump the gun," Grace said to Mia.

"I'm going to check this out for myself," Mia said, heading inside to find the couple.

Grace gave Ana a quick hug. "Hello, my dear. Thank you so much for allowing us to take over your Saturday."

"I'm glad you're here," Ana said, holding open the door for Grace.

"What a cute kitchen. Whatever you've prepared smells absolutely divine. I remembered Elliot saying what a good cook you are, so I skipped breakfast."

"It's lasagna." Ana looked behind her, but her father and Carrick weren't coming inside. They were walking toward the workshop, so Ana closed the back door.

"Where's Kit? Is he with Kate?" Grace asked.

"No, he's napping. It's time for him to get up though. I try to keep him on a schedule."

"That's very wise of you," Grace said. "Children need routine, especially babies."

"Let's go see if he's awake," she said, leading Grace to the bedroom she shared with Kit.

They walked to the side of the crib. Kit was beginning to stir.

"Oh, my goodness, he's even more precious than I remembered. Look at him, sucking on his fist, working up an appetite," Grace observed.

"Have a seat in the rocker. I'll sit on the bed to nurse him and we can chat." Ana didn't know what they would discuss, but a socially prominent woman like Grace should surely be good at small talk.

Grace took her place in the rocker, put her expensive looking bag on the floor, and then looked around, taking in Ana's childhood room.

Ana unbuttoned her shirt and popped out a boob, feeling no need to cover up.

"Hello, my hungry boy," she said to Kit, who quickly latched, enjoying his meal. Grace appeared unfazed, as she was still distracted with all the details of the bedroom.

"It's crowded," Ana said. "But the room holds everything we need. It's been my special little space since I was ten months old. I know Kit will need his own room soon and we'll have to move out, but I'll miss this."

"When do you plan to move? I hope you'll move closer to us," Grace said.

Ana stood up, pushed the bed pillows against the headboard, and settled against them, making Kit and herself more comfortable.

"I don't have any definite plans," she said. "But I'd eventually like to find a job in Seattle."

"Oh, yes, your job search," Grace said. "Carrick told me you have a bright young attorney who is helping settle your problem."

"Hank Skidmore, a friend of Ethan Kavanagh's, is representing me. He texted this morning to let me know that my employment record has been cleared. Puget Press is writing me a letter of recommendation, so that's a big step toward eventually finding work."

"Good," Grace said. "I'd like to run something past you. If you agree, I'd like to get things going as soon as possible."

"No promises," Ana said. "But I'll keep an open mind."

"We've been parishioners at Sacred Heart for the entire twenty-two years we've lived in Bellevue. Our faith means a great deal to us and we'd like to have Kit christened. I don't know your thoughts on religion, but I hope this is something you will support."

As much as she wanted to forge a bond with Grace, the woman had overstepped her bounds. She felt broadsided.

"I wasn't raised a Catholic, so perhaps I'm wrong about this, but in order for a baby to be baptized in the Catholic church, don't both parents have to be church members?"

"That's typically the way it works, but I spoke to Fr. Lawrence and he told me there are provisions for special cases. Since you're not Catholic, it's a simple matter of you taking instruction and then promising that you'll make sure Kit is raised a Catholic."

Kit's swallowing had slowed, so rather than respond immediately to Grace's request, Ana took time to burp Kit, then move him to the other breast.

"This is a decision that only Christian and I can make together. Until I speak to him directly, I can't give you an answer. What did he say when you brought it up?"

Ana would never admit it out loud, but her relationship with Christian had been little more than sex. They'd never discussed religion.

"I haven't broached the subject," Grace said, her eyes welling with tears. "His attitude toward me has changed in recent months. He's very disrespectful… downright hateful at times. It's very hurtful."

This surprised Ana. Granted she and Christian had only hung out together for a mere month, but she'd been under the impression that he was on good terms with all of his family members.

"What happened to change things between you? Was there a disagreement?"

"No," Grace said. She reached into her purse, pulled out a tissue, and dabbed her eyes. "It was a sudden change in attitude, completely unprovoked. He's done the same thing to my friend, Elena. He barely speaks to either of us. You're not the only person to whom he's been cruel."

Hmm… seems Christian had been telling the truth when he claimed he hadn't been communicating with Mrs. Robinson. What happened?

"What about Carrick, Elliot, and Mia?" Ana asked. "Does he get along with them?"

"Since his teens, he and Carrick have had a strained relationship. But recently Christian seems more respectful to his father than he is to me. As far as I know, Christian's relationship with Elliot and Mia hasn't changed any."

"I'm sorry to hear that you and Christian aren't getting along. Now that I'm a mother, I better understand how much hurt can pass between mother and child. I hope you can repair the bond."

"Thank you," Grace said with a weak smile. She threw the tissue back into her bag. "All the discord with Christian has given the timing of Kit's arrival more impact. I feel as if becoming Kit's grandmother has given me a second chance."

"I think my mother feels the same way," Ana said. "She came out right after Kit was born and stayed for three weeks. She wants me to bring Kit for a visit, so I'll do that in another month or two."

"What does she want Kit to call her?" Grace asked.

"Grandma." Ana braced herself, hoping it wasn't the same thing Grace wanted to be called. "And Dad decided to be Grandpa."

"Perfect," Grace said. "I'd like to be Nana and I think Carrick wants to be Granddad."

"Well, Nana, looks like your grandson is finished with his meal. All he needs is a diaper change and he'll be ready to play."

"May I help?" Grace asked.

"Of course," Ana said, placing Kit on the changing pad. "Let's put his little bear outfit on, the one he wore when we met you for lunch. Try that second drawer."

Grace looked through the drawer, found the clothing items, and after Kit's diaper change, she dressed him.

Ana noted how lovingly and sweetly Grace spoke to the baby. The attention and affection warmed her heart. Even if Christian never accepts Kit, at least his family seemed taken with the child.

Grace carried Kit into the living room, with Ana close behind.

Elliot and Kate were still sitting cozily on the couch.

Ana was amused by the sight of Mr. Grey in her father's old duct taped recliner. Such a chair was surely a first for a man of means.

Mia, who'd been sitting on the floor, jumped to her feet.

"Let me hold him," she said.

"I just got him," Grace complained. "Wait your turn."

"Mom," Mia whined. "Please."

"I see how it's going to be," Carrick said with a laugh. "Maybe I should set a timer, so we each get the same amount of time. Fair is fair."

"Sit here in the middle, Grace," Kate said as she relinquished her spot. "Then Mia can sit on one side and Carrick or Elliot on the other."

"Thank you, I'll do that," Grace said. "Elliot, would you please go out to the car and bring in the packages? Mia and I did some shopping for Kit."

"Only if Kate helps me," he said.

Ana could tell from Kate's flirty grin that things were back on with Elliot. They held hands as they walked to the back door.

Elliot and Kate are so good together.

"Christian should be here," Mia said. She sat on the sofa next to Grace, playing with Kit's feet while Grace talked to him.

"Maybe so, but your brother has to pay the piper," Carrick said. "He'll be able to visit his son soon enough."

"I know. It just feel strange for him not to be here," Mia said. "Oh my gosh, Kit is so freaking cute. He looks so much like Christian. We need pics."

Mia pulled out her phone and began clicking away.

"I'm sending this one to Lily," she said.

"Please don't," Ana said. "I'm sure your friend is a fine person, but I don't feel comfortable with you sharing pictures of Kit with someone I don't know. I feel… vulnerable. Christian's actions have put me on high alert."

"Oh, sure, I understand," Mia said. "What Christian did was scary. Is it okay if I send pictures to Christian and our grandparents?"

"Of course," Ana said. "But family only, please."

She really wanted to say "don't you dare send photos to Mrs. Lincoln," but in the spirit of generosity she'd made that ridiculous ninety day agreement with Christian. She was currently kicking herself over that.

"Thank you for filing the paperwork to have the No Contact Order lifted," Carrick said. "It should go through early next week."

"That is good news," she said to Carrick. "Hank Skidmore helped me with that. May I get some advice? I have questions about how much to pay him."

"I thought he was handling your case pro bono," Carrick said.

"He is," she said. "But I have money now and I want to compensate him for his time. As you know, he worked on the child support and custody agreements, but he's also gotten my employment record cleared up and he's working on an out of court settlement for harassment and toxic work environment. What would be an appropriate payment?"

"If you throw that kid a thousand bucks for the support and custody work he'd probably be very happy. In settlement cases, it's a percentage, typically somewhere between thirty and forty percent. I charge forty, but he doesn't have my experience or the expenses associated with maintaining an office. He's just starting out, so giving him thirty would really help him out. I liked him. He's got a bright future."

"He's been great. I'm very grateful," she said.

The rustle of tissue paper announced Elliot and Kate's return, their arms laden with gift boxes and bags. From the look and sound of it, Ana imagined there was no wrapping paper left in Seattle.

"My goodness," Ana said.

"We were going to get just a few things, but we couldn't stop, could we?" Mia asked Grace.

"I was in perfect control, darling daughter. You are the one who couldn't stop," Grace teased. "You kept reasoning that it was perfectly fine to go overboard, since we missed out on the baby shower."

"You didn't miss out any shower, because Mama Ana wouldn't allow one," Kate said, arching a brow toward Ana. "She stole my fun. This will help make up for it. Shall we wait for Ray?"

"I don't think Dad would be very interested in baby things," Ana said.

"Then what are we waiting for? Rip into these gifts," Kate ordered.

"The packages are so beautiful. This was so thoughtful and generous. I don't know where to start. Mia, could you guide me?"

Mia left the couch to sit on a metal folding chair next to Ana, who made note that if the Greys continued to visit her father's house, she might need to purchase a more comfortable seating arrangement. Thanks to Christian, she had money for that now.

Kate took Mia's spot on the sofa.

Once everyone appeared settled in, Mia began passing gifts to Ana. It seemed Grace had a remarkable memory, because there was baby clothing for any occasion, all in the larger size that Kit would soon need. There were extra crib sheets, books, and the most adorable little moccasins. Grace had even remembered Kit's need for more socks.

"Is this a special kind of pull-up?" Ana said, holding up a bottom decorated in tiny sharks.

"That's a swim diaper," Grace said. "There's also a matching rash guard. We're hoping that Christian will be forthcoming soon, so you can bring Kit over to our place for a swim. With warm weather approaching, we'll be opening our pool in a couple of weeks."

"These are for you," Mia said, putting one box in Ana's lap and another on the coffee table.

There was an envelope attached to the outside of the first package. Inside Ana found a handwritten note from Grace thanking her for giving them such a beautiful grandson. There was also a five hundred dollar gift certificate for salon services at Esclava. She recognized this as Mrs. Lincoln's salon; it took everything she had not to set fire to the certificate.

"Thank you," Ana said. "I do need a good haircut."

"Make your appointment with Franco," Mia said. "He's the best."

The first box contained a sleepwear set: a short gown with a built-in nursing bra and a matching robe, both in blush pink.

"Wow," she said. "I've never owned anything so elegant. Thank you."

Kate reached out to touch it. "Mulberry silk," she said. "And it's washable. I had no idea nursing lingerie could be so sexy."

With no partner, sexy was the last thing Ana considered. Still it wouldn't hurt to look pretty, even with no one around.

The other box contained a summer dress, a strapless fit and flare affair in periwinkle. The fabric and workmanship were obviously high end.

"That color really suits you," Kate said.

"It's beautiful. Thank you," Ana said. "I don't get out much. Now I'll have to find an occasion to wear it."

"We entertain quite a bit during the summer," Grace said. "Mia and I thought you might want to wear it to one of our dinner parties."

The Grey's largesse was much appreciated, but it brought up the guilt Ana felt for what Kit and all of the Greys had missed. If only she'd been stronger and had informed Christian of her pregnancy.

If only…

Kate patted Ana's knee, helping her to refocus her attention on her guests.

Mia gathered up all the torn wrapping paper.

"Thank you for tidying up. I need to check on the lasagna." Turning to Kate, she asked, "Do you mind putting all of these lovely gifts away in the bedroom?"

"Mia and I have it covered. As soon as we finish tidying up, we'll help you serve the meal," Kate said.

Before she turned for the kitchen, Ana took in the scene. Carrick had taken the empty spot on one side of Grace, while Elliot had remained rooted on the other side.

"What's that old song that Gramps likes to sing…Yippee-I-Oh-Ki-Ay?" Elliot asked.

Carrick began singing to Kit and Elliot joined in.

"I'm an old cowhand from the Rio Grande,

and I learned to ride 'fore I learned to stand.

I'm a ridin' fool who is up to date,

I know every trail in the Lone Star State,

Cause I ride the range in a Ford V Eight.

Yippy-I-Oh-Ki-Ay, Yippy-I-Oh-Ki-Ay."

"Do you see that? Kit can't stop smiling. He likes it," Elliot said.

"He does. We need to film this for Gramps," Carrick said. "Let's not forget to take some group shots, too."

It was lovely watching Kit with his Grey family. For the moment Ana tried to feel content with the situation in which she found herself. But niggling in the back of her brain was confusion over Christian's current state of affairs with Mrs. Lincoln.

If he's stepped back from his relationship with her, why does he defend her whenever I bring her up?

It didn't make sense, but she was determined to understand him. First she needed to uncover his secrets.