We head up a tree-lined lane just wide enough for two cars. On one side the trees ring a densely wooded area, and on the other there's a vast area of grassland where a once-cultivated field has been left fallow. Grass and wildflowers have reclaimed it, creating a rural idyll -- a meadow, where the late evening breeze softly ripples through the grass and the evening sun gilds the wildflowers. It's lovely, utterly tranquil, and suddenly I imagine myself lying in the grass and gazing up at a clear blue summer sky. The thought is tantalizing, yet makes me feel homesick for some strange reason. How odd.

A few minutes later, Christian turns sharply left, and we're confronted by two ornate white metal gates set in a six-foot-high sandstone wall. Christian presses a button on his door handle and the electric window hums quietly down into the doorframe. He punches a number into the keypad and the gates swing open in welcome.

Christian continues to drive past single-story, well-kept clapboard houses where kids play basketball in their yards or cycle and run around in the street. It all looks affluent and wholesome with the houses nestling among the trees. Perhaps we're going to visit someone? Who?

"What is it?" I ask, and I can't mask the concern in my voice.

He glances at me, and his expression has changed. He looks uncertain, even nervous.

"An idea," he says quietly and eases the Saab through the gates.

The lane curves around and opens into a sweeping driveway in front of an impressive Mediterranean-style house of soft pink sandstone. It's palatial. All the lights are on, each window brightly illuminated in the dusk. There's a smart black BMW parked in front of the four-car garage, but Christian pulls up outside the grand portico.

"Miss Kelly," he says politely.

The dark wood doors open, and a woman with dark brown hair, a sincere smile, and a sharp lilac suit stands waiting. I'm grateful I changed into my new navy shift dress to impress Dr. Flynn. Okay, I'm not wearing killer heels like her -- but still, I'm not in jeans.

Christian glances anxiously at me as he switches off the car engine.

He smiles ironically and nods. "Fair point well made, Miss Steele. Let's go."

"Christian, I've needed an open mind since the day I met you."

"Mr. Grey." She smiles warmly and they shake hands.

"Will you keep an open mind?" he asks.

I frown.

Hmm… I wonder who lives here. Why are we visiting?

She smiles at me and holds out her hand, which I shake. Her isn't-he-dreamily-gorgeous-wish-he-were-mine flush does not go unnoticed.

"Ana Steele," I mutter back at her. Who is this woman? She stands aside, welcoming us into the house. It's a shock when I step in. The place is empty -- completely empty. We find ourselves in a large entrance hall. The walls are a faded primrose yellow with scuff marks where pictures must once have hung. All that remains are the old-fashioned crystal light fixtures. The floors are dull hardwood. There are closed doors to either side of us, but Christian gives me no time to assimilate what's happening.

"Olga Kelly," she announces breezily.

"Come," he says, and taking my hand, he leads me through the archway in front of us into a larger inner vestibule. It's dominated by a curved, sweeping staircase with an intricate iron balustrade, but still he doesn't stop. He takes me through to the main living area, which is empty save for a large faded gold rug -- the biggest rug I have ever seen. Oh -- and there are four crystal chandeliers.

But Christian's intention is now clear as we head across the room and outside through open French doors to a large stone terrace. Below us there's half a football field of manicured lawn, but beyond that is the view. Wow.

I realize I'm holding my breath in awe, and Christian is still holding my hand. As I reluctantly turn my eyes away from the view, he's gazing anxiously at me.

"It's staggering, Christian. Thank you," I murmur, letting my eyes feast on it once more. He releases my hand.

"You brought me here to admire the view?" I whisper. He nods, his expression serious.

The panoramic, uninterrupted vista is breathtaking -- staggering even: twilight over the Sound. In the distance lies Bainbridge Island, and farther still on this crystal-clear evening, the setting sun sinks slowly, glowing blood and flame orange, beyond Olympic National Park. Vermilion hues bleed into the cerulean sky, with opals and aquamarines, and meld with the darker purples of the scant wispy clouds and the land beyond the Sound. It is nature's best, a visual symphony orchestrated in the sky and reflected in the deep, still waters of the Sound. I am lost to the view -- staring, trying to absorb such beauty.

"How would you like to look at it for the rest of your life?" he breathes.

What? I whip my face back to his, startled blue eyes to pensive gray. I think my mouth drops open, and I gape at him blankly.

"I've always wanted to live on the coast. I sail up and down the Sound coveting these houses. This place hasn't been on the market long. I want to buy it, demolish it, and build a new house -- for us," he whispers, and his eyes glow, translucent with his hopes and dreams.

I gaze back at the room again. Miss Olga Kelly is on the far side, hovering by the entrance. She's the Realtor, of course. I notice the room is huge and double height, a little like the great room at Escala. There's a balcony above -- that must be the landing on the second floor. There's a huge fireplace and a whole line of French doors opening onto the terrace. It has an old-world charm.

"Why do you want to demolish it?" I ask, looking back at him. His face falls. Oh no.

Holy cow. Somehow I remain upright. I'm reeling. Live here! In this beautiful haven! For the rest of my life…

"It's just an idea," he adds cautiously.

I glance back to assess the interior of the house. How much is it worth? It must be what -- five, ten million dollars? I have no idea. Holy shit.

"I'd like to make a more sustainable home, using the latest ecological techniques. Elliot could build it."

He blinks at me. "Sure." He shrugs, puzzled.

"Can we look around the house?"

Miss Kelly points out all sorts of features, but basically the house is beautiful and was obviously at one time a happy family home. It's a little shabby now, but nothing that some TLC couldn't cure.

The house is enormous: twelve thousand square feet on six acres of land. As well as the main living room, there's the eat-in -- no, banquet-in -- kitchen with family room attached -- family!-- a music room, a library, a study and, much to my amazement, an indoor pool and exercise suite with sauna and steam room attached. Downstairs in the basement there's a cinema -- jeez -- and game room. Hmm… what sort of games could we play in here?

Miss Kelly's face lights up like Christmas when we head back in. She's delighted to take us on a tour and gives us the spiel.

"Couldn't you make the existing house more ecological and self-sustaining?"

As we follow Miss Kelly up the magnificent main stairs to the second floor, I can hardly contain my excitement… this house has everything I could ever wish for in a home.

"Yes," Miss Kelly says brightly.

Miss Kelly leads us into the master suite, where full-height windows open onto a balcony, and the view is still spectacular. I could sit in bed and gaze out all day, watching the sailing boats and the changing weather.

There are five additional bedrooms on this floor. Kids! I push the thought hastily to one side. I have too much to process already. Miss Kelly is busily suggesting to Christian how the grounds could accommodate riding stables and a paddock. Horses! Terrifying images of my few riding lessons flash through my mind, but Christian doesn't appear to be listening.

Back in the main room, Miss Kelly discreetly disappears, and Christian leads me out once more onto the terrace. The sun has set and lights from the towns on the Olympic peninsula are twinkling on the far side of the Sound.

Christian blinks at me, nonplussed. "I'd have to ask Elliot. He's the expert in all this."

"The paddock would be where the meadow is now?" I ask.

To me the meadow looks like somewhere to lie in the long grass and have picnics, not for some four-legged fiend of Satan to roam.

"The view?"

His lips part as he inhales sharply, then his face transforms with a grin, and his hands are suddenly thrusting into my hair and his mouth is on mine.

"Yes. Show me someone who doesn't," he says darkly.

He nods.

Okay, get off that subject quickly.

I nod.

"Anastasia, you're going to have to learn to be rich, too, if you say yes," he says softly.

He frowns. "Why would I do that?"

"To pay for…" My voice trails off -- of course. I flush.

He smirks at me. "Trust me, I can afford it."

"I wanted to check that you liked it before I bought it."

"So, you're going to buy it?" I ask.

"You'll put Escala on the market?"

Christian pulls me into his arms and tips my chin up with his index finger, staring intently down at me.

I smile shyly. "Christian, you had me at the meadow."

"Lot to take in?" he asks, his expression unreadable.

"Do you like being rich?"

Back in the car as we head for Seattle, Christian's mood has lifted considerably.

"Yes."

"You do?"

"I love the view, and I like the house that's here."

"To celebrate." Christian relaxes.

"Have you forgotten already? Your acting editor role."

He gazes at me and his face darkens. "Are you flirting with me, Miss Steele?"

"Oh yes." I grin. Unbelievably, I had forgotten.

"Wealth isn't something I've ever aspired to, Christian." I frown.

The mile high club is on the seventy-sixth floor of Columbia Tower, higher even than Christian's apartment. It's very trendy and has the most head-spinning views over Seattle.

"Cristal, ma'am?" Christian hands me a glass of chilled champagne as I sit perched on a barstool.

"I know. I love that about you. But then again, you've never been hungry," he says simply. His words are sobering.

"I'm sure I can think of something," he says, his voice low. "Come -- our table's ready."

Oh! "Celebrate what, the house?"

"Your club?"

"Yes. One of them."

"Why, thank you, Sir." I stress the last word flirtatiously, batting my eyelashes at him deliberately.

"Yes, Mr. Grey, I am. What are you going to do about it?"

"Where?"

"Where are we going?" I ask brightly, changing the subject.

"Up high at my club."

Shit. What's he going to do? Perhaps this club is aptly named.

"Go and take your panties off," he whispers.

As we approach the table, Christian stops me, his hand on my elbow.

The restrooms are the height of modern design -- all dark wood, black granite, and pools of light from strategically placed halogens. In the privacy of the stall, I smirk as I divest myself of my underwear. Again I'm grateful I changed into the navy blue shift dress. I thought it appropriate attire to meet the good Dr. Flynn -- I hadn't expected the evening to take this unexpected course.

Oh? A delicious tingle runs down my spine.

Whoa, what? He's not smiling -- he's dead serious. Every muscle below my waistline tightens. I hand him my glass of champagne, turn sharply on my heel, and head for the restroom.

"Go," he commands quietly.

I am excited already. Why does he affect me so? I slightly resent how easily I fall under his spell. I know now that we won't be spending the evening talking through all our issues and recent events… but how can I resist him?

Christian stands politely when I return to the table, his expression unreadable. He looks his usual perfect, cool, calm, and collected self. Of course, I now know differently.

I take a deep breath and head back out into the club. I mean, it's not as if I haven't gone pantyless before. My inner goddess is draped in a pink feather boa and diamonds, strutting her stuff in fuck-me shoes.

Checking my appearance in the mirror, I am bright-eyed and flushed with excitement. Issues, schmissues.

The waiter arrives with a dish of oysters on crushed ice. Oysters. The memory of the two of us in the private dining room at the Heathman fills my mind. We were discussing his contract. Oh, boy. We've come a long way since then.

"Sit beside me," he says. I slide into the seat and he sits. "I've ordered for you. I hope you don't mind." He hands me my half-finished glass of champagne, regarding me intently, and under his scrutiny, my blood heats anew. He rests his hands on his thighs. I tense and part my legs slightly.

"I think you liked oysters last time you tried them." His voice is low, seductive.

"Learn what?" I ask. Jeez, my pulse is racing. His long, skilled fingers gently squeeze the lemon over the shellfish.

I squirm in my seat. Why is this so hot?

Christian helps himself to one, then feeds me another. We continue this torturous routine until all twelve are gone. His skin never connects with mine. It's driving me crazy.

"Eat," he says, holding the shell close to my mouth. I part my lips, and he gently places the shell on my bottom lip. "Tip your head back slowly," he murmurs. I do as he asks and the oyster slips down my throat. He doesn't touch me, only the shell does.

"Still like oysters?" he asks as I swallow the final one.

He puts his hand casually on his own thigh again, and I melt. Now. Please. Touch me. My inner goddess is on her knees, naked except for her panties -- begging. He runs his hand up and down his thigh, lifts it, then places it back where it was.

"Oh, Miss Steele -- when will you learn?" he muses.

I nod, flushed, craving his touch.

He takes an oyster from the dish and lifts his other hand from his thigh. I flinch in anticipation, but he reaches for a slice of lemon.

"Good."

"Only time I've tried them." I'm all breathy, my voice exposing me. His lips twitch with a smile.

"Yes."

The waiter tops up our champagne glasses and whisks away our plates. Moments later he's back with our entrées, sea bass -- I don't believe it -- served with asparagus, sautéed potatoes, and a hollandaise sauce.

"A favorite of yours, Mr. Grey?"

"You're sure I'm not going to run to the Seattle Times with an exposé?" I tease.

"Tear it up," he says simply.

He takes a bite out of his sea bass. He's doing this on purpose.

He laughs and it's a wonderful sound. He looks so young.

"Happy days," he says, smirking. "This time I hope to get to fuck you." He moves his hand to pick up his knife.

Whoa.

Gah!

"I seem to remember we were in a private dining room then, discussing contracts."

"What? Really?"

"Most definitely, Miss Steele. Though I believe it was cod at the Heathman." His hand moves up and down his thigh. My breathing spikes, but still he doesn't touch me. It's so frustrating. I try to concentrate on our conversation.

"Don't count on it," I mutter with a pout and he glances at me, amused. "Speaking of contracts," I add. "The NDA."

"Why haven't you touched me, then?" I hiss.

"Missing my touch?" he asks, grinning. He's amused… the bastard.

"Oh, Anastasia. We'd find a way to put the fire out," he says, grinning salaciously at me.

"It will be your fault if I combust here on the seventy-sixth floor," I mutter through gritted teeth.

What? I gasp out loud.

"Yes," I seethe.

"No." He shakes his head.

"No. I trust you. I'm going to give you the benefit of the doubt."

"You're not going to touch me, are you?"

"Just imagine how you'll feel when we're home," he whispers. "I can't wait to get you home."

Oh. I grin shyly at him. "Ditto," I breathe.

"Eat," he orders.

His eyes light up. "I'm very glad you're wearing a dress," he murmurs. And bam -- desire courses through my already overheated blood.

Fuming, I dig into my sea bass, and my inner goddess narrows her eyes in quiet, devious contemplation. We can play this game, too. I learned the basics during our meal at the Heathman. I take a bite out of my sea bass. It is melt-in-the-mouth delicious. I close my eyes, savoring the taste. When I open them, I begin my seduction of Christian Grey, very slowly hitching my skirt up, exposing more of my thighs.

After a beat, he resumes eating. I take another bite of sea bass, ignoring him. Then, putting down my knife, I run my fingers up the inside of my lower thigh, lightly tapping my skin with my fingertips. It's distracting even to me, especially as I am craving his touch. Christian pauses once more.

Touch me.

"I know that you know, Mr. Grey," I reply softly. "That's the point." I pick up an asparagus stalk, gaze sideways at him from beneath my lashes, then dip the asparagus into the hollandaise sauce, swirling the tip around and around.

Christian pauses momentarily, a forkful of fish suspended midair.

"You're not turning the tables on me, Miss Steele." Smirking he reaches over and takes the spear from me -- amazingly and annoyingly managing not to touch me again. No, this isn't right -- this is not going according to plan. Gah!

I am losing this battle of wills. I glance up at him again, and his eyes blaze bright gray. Parting my lips a fraction, I run my tongue across my lower lip. Christian smiles and his eyes darken further.

"I know what you're doing." His voice is low and husky.

"Open your mouth," he commands.

"Wider," he breathes, his lips parting so that I can see his tongue. I groan inwardly and bite my bottom lip, then do as he asks.

Keeping my eyes locked on his, I take the spear in my mouth, and suck gently… delicately… on the end. The hollandaise sauce is mouthwatering. I bite down, moaning quietly in appreciation.

I hear his sharp intake of breath -- he's not so immune. Good, I am finally getting to him.

"Oh no you don't, Miss Steele," he murmurs softly. Raising my hand to his mouth, he gently brushes my knuckles with his lips, and I squirm. Finally! More, please.

"You don't play fair." I pout.

"I know." He picks up his champagne glass to propose a toast, and I mirror his actions.

Christian closes his eyes. Yes! When he opens them again, his pupils have dilated. The effect on me is immediate. I groan and reach out to touch his thigh. To my surprise, he uses his other hand to grab my wrist.

"Don't touch," he scolds me quietly, and places my hand back on my knee. It's so frustrating -- this brief unsatisfactory contact.

"Eat, or I'll put you across my knee, right here, and we'll entertain the other diners."

"Eat this," he murmurs, his voice low and seductive.

"Eat," he orders. "I am not taking you home until you've finished your meal, and then we can really celebrate." His expression is so heated, so raw, so commanding. I am melting.

"I'm not hungry. Not for food."

His words make me squirm. He wouldn't dare! Him and his twitchy palm. I press my mouth into a hard line and stare at him. Picking up an asparagus stalk, he dips the head into the hollandaise.

"You really don't eat enough. You've lost weight since I've known you." His tone is gentle.

I willingly comply.

I don't want to think about my weight; truth is, I like being this slim. I swallow the asparagus.

He shakes his head, thoroughly enjoying himself, but narrows his eyes at me just the same.

"Yes, kind of unexpected," I mutter. He frowns as if some unpleasant thought has crossed his mind.

"Congratulations on your promotion, Miss Steele." We clink glasses and I blush.

Bastard! Finally I finish my food and place my knife and fork on the plate.

"So do I, and we will. Eat up."

Reluctantly, I turn back to my food and start to eat. Honestly, I've taken my panties off and everything. I feel like a child who has been denied candy. He is such a tease, a delicious, hot, naughty tease, and all mine.

"I just want to go home and make love," I mutter disconsolately. Christian grins.

He quizzes me about Ethan. As it turns out, Christian does business with Kate and Ethan's father. Hmm… it's a small world. I'm relieved he doesn't mention Dr. Flynn or the house, as I'm finding it difficult to concentrate on our conversation. I want to go home.

The carnal anticipation is unfurling between us. He's so good at this. Making me wait. Setting the scene. Between bites, he places his hand on his thigh, so close to mine, but still doesn't touch me just to tease me further.

"Good girl," he murmurs, and those two words hold so much promise.

I frown at him. "What now?" I ask, desire clawing at my belly. Oh, I want this man.

Whoa!

"Now? We leave. I believe you have certain expectations, Miss Steele. Which I intend to fulfill to the best of my ability."

"The best… of your a… bil… ity?" I stutter. Holy shit.

He cocks his head to one side. "I am a member here. They'll bill me. Come, Anastasia, after you." He steps aside, and I stand to leave, conscious that I am not wearing my panties.

He grins and stands.

Christian whispers in my ear, "I can't wait to get you home." But he still doesn't touch me.

"Don't we have to pay?" I ask, breathless.

He gazes at me darkly, like he's undressing me, and I glory in his carnal appraisal. It just makes me feel so sexy -- this beautiful man desires me. Will I always get a kick out of this? Deliberately stopping in front of him, I smooth my dress over my hips.

Waiting by the elevators, we are joined by two middle-aged couples. When the doors open, Christian takes my elbow and steers me to the back. I glance around, and we're surrounded by dark smoked-glass mirrors. As the other couples enter, one man in a rather unflattering brown suit greets Christian.

On the way out he murmurs something about the car to the maître d', but I'm not listening; my inner goddess is incandescent with anticipation. Jeez, she could light up Seattle.

"Grey." He nods politely. Christian nods in return but is silent.

The couples stand in front of us, facing the elevator doors. They are obviously friends -- the women chat loudly, excited and animated after their meal. I think they're all a little tipsy.

As the doors close, Christian briefly stoops down beside me to tie his shoelace. Odd, his shoelaces aren't undone. Discreetly he places his hand on my ankle, startling me, and as he stands his hand travels swiftly up my leg, skating deliciously over my skin -- whoa -- right up. I have to stifle my gasp of surprise as his hand reaches my backside. Christian moves behind me.

Oh my. I gape at the people in front of us, staring at the backs of their heads. They have no idea what we're up to. Wrapping his free arm around my waist, Christian pulls me to him, holding me in place as his fingers explore. Holy fucking shit… in here? The elevator travels smoothly down, stopping at the fifty-third floor to let some more people on, but I am not paying attention. I am focused on every little move his fingers make. Circling around… now moving forward, questing, as we shuffle back.

"Keep still and quiet," he warns, murmuring in my ear.

Again I stifle a groan when his fingers find their goal.

"Always so ready, Miss Steele," he whispers as he slips a finger inside me. I squirm and gasp. How can he do this with all these people here?

I'm flushed, warm, wanting, trapped in an elevator with seven people, six of them oblivious to what's occurring in the corner. His finger slides in and out of me, again and again. My breathing… Jeez, it's embarrassing. I want to tell him to stop… and continue… and stop. I sag against him, and he tightens his arm around me, his erection against my hip.

"Hush," he breathes, seemingly unaffected as yet two more people come aboard. The elevator is getting crowded. Christian moves us both farther back so that we're now pressed into the corner, holding me in place and torturing me further. He nuzzles my hair. I'm sure we look like a young couple in love, canoodling in the corner, if anyone could be bothered to turn around and see what we're doing… And he eases a second finger inside me.

We halt again at the forty-fourth floor. Oh… how long is this torture going to continue? In… out… in… out… Subtly I grind myself against his persistent finger. After all this time of not touching me, he chooses now! Here! And it makes me feel so -- wanton.

"Don't come," he whispers. "I want that later." He splays his hand out on my belly, pressing down slightly, as he continues his sweet persecution. The feeling is exquisite.

Fuck! I groan, and I'm thankful that the gaggle of people in front of us are still chatting away, totally oblivious.

Turning, I gaze up at him. He looks cool and unruffled, his usual composed self. Hmm… This is so not fair.

Oh, Christian, what you do to me. I lean my head against his chest, closing my eyes and surrendering to his unrelenting fingers.

Finally the elevator reaches the first floor. With a loud ping the doors open, and almost instantly the passengers start exiting. Christian slowly slips his fingers out of me and kisses the back of my head. I glance around at him, and he smiles, then nods again at Mr. Badly Fitted Brown Suit, who returns his nod of acknowledgment as he shuffles out of the elevator with his wife. I barely notice, concentrating instead on staying upright and trying to manage my panting. Jeez, I feel aching and bereft. Christian releases me, leaving me to stand on my own two feet without leaning on him.

"Ready?" he asks. His eyes gleam wickedly as he slips first his index, then his middle finger into his mouth and sucks on them. "Mighty fine, Miss Steele," he whispers. I nearly convulse on the spot.

"I can't believe you just did that," I murmur, and I'm practically coming apart at the seams.

"You'd be surprised what I can do, Miss Steele," he says. Reaching out, he tucks a lock of hair behind my ear, a slight smile betraying his amusement.

"I want to get you home, but maybe we'll only make it as far as the car." He grins down at me as he takes my hand and leads me out of the elevator.

What! Sex in the car? Can't we just do it here on the cool marble of the lobby floor… please?

"Yes, I want to."

"Miss Steele!" he admonishes me with mock-amused horror.

"I've never had sex in a car," I mumble. Christian halts and places those same fingers under my chin, tipping my head back and glaring down at me.

"I'm very pleased to hear that. I have to say I'd be very surprised, not to say mad, if you had."

"Come."

"You're a born romantic, Miss Steele." He takes my hand, and we head out of the building to where the valet stands by my Saab.

I flush, blinking up at him. Of course; I've only had sex with him. I frown.

"The famous expression, 'I've never had sex in a car.' Yes, it just trips off the tongue."

His mouth drops open then he laughs, surprised. Now he looks young and carefree. Oh, to hear him laugh. I love it because it's so rare.

"So you want sex in a car," Christian murmurs as he switches on the ignition.

"That's not what I meant."

He raises his eyebrows. "What did I do to you?" he challenges.

I scowl at him. He wants me to say it.

"Christian, I wasn't thinking. For heaven's sake, you've just… um, done that to me in an elevator full of people. My wits are scattered."

What's his problem?

"What did you mean?" His tone is unexpectedly harsh.

"Quite frankly, I would have been happy with the lobby floor."

"Christian, it was just an expression."

"You turned me on, big time. Now take me home and fuck me."

"Oh yes."

"Trust me, Ana, so would I. But I don't enjoy being arrested at this time of night, and I didn't want to fuck you in a restroom. Well, not today."

What! "You mean there was a possibility?"

"Patience, Anastasia," he murmurs and pulls into the Seattle traffic.

He turns to gaze at me and laughs. His laughter is infectious; soon we're both laughing -- wonderful, cathartic, head-held-back laughter. Reaching over, he places his hand on my knee, caressing it gently with skilled fingers. I stop laughing.

"Let's go back."

He parks the SAAB in the Escala garage and turns off the engine. Suddenly, in the confines of the car, the atmosphere between us changes. With wanton anticipation, I glance at him, trying to contain my palpitating heart. He's turned toward me, leaning against the door, his elbow propped on the steering wheel.

He pulls his lower lip with his thumb and index finger. His mouth is so distracting. I want it on me. He's watching me intently, his eyes dark gray. My mouth goes dry. He smiles a slow sexy smile.

It's like he's addressing me below the waist… my inner goddess performs four arabesques and a pas de basque.

"We will fuck in the car at a time and place of my choosing. Right now, I want to take you on every available surface of my apartment."

"Yes." Jeez, I sound so breathy, desperate.

"If I kiss you now, we won't make it into the apartment. Come."

Once again, We wait for the elevator, my body thrumming with anticipation. Christian holds my hand, running his thumb rhythmically across my knuckles, each stroke echoing through me. Oh, I want his hands on all of me. He's tortured me long enough.

Gah! Could this man be any more frustrating? He climbs out of the car.

"So, what happened to instant gratification?" I murmur while we wait.

He leans forward a fraction. I close my eyes, waiting for his kiss, thinking -- finally. But nothing happens. After an interminable few seconds, I open my eyes to find him gazing at me. I can't figure out what he's thinking, but before I can say anything, he distracts me once more.

I gaze up at him and his expression is difficult to read. He wants my answer… that's it.

"I'm into delayed gratification, too," I whisper, smiling shyly.

"Why are you torturing me so?"

"It's not appropriate in every situation, Anastasia."

He tugs my hand unexpectedly, and suddenly I am in his arms. He grabs the hair at the nape of my neck, pulling gently so my head tips back.

"Since when?"

"I think you know."

"What can I do to make you say yes?" he asks fervently, throwing me off balance once more. I blink at him -- at his lovely, serious, desperate expression.

"Since this evening."

"How am I torturing you?"

"Give me some time… please," I murmur. He groans and finally kisses me, long and hard. Then we're in the elevator, and we're all hands and mouths and tongues and lips and fingers and hair. Desire, thick and strong, lances through my blood, clouding all my reason. He pushes me against the wall, pinning me with his hips, one hand in my hair, the other at my chin, holding me in place.

"Tit for tat, Miss Steele."

Christian pins me to the wall by the elevator, his jacket falling to the floor, and his hand travels up my leg, his lips never leaving mine. He hoists up my dress.

His words are intoxicating, and in my overheated state, I want to rip off his clothes. I push off his jacket, and as the elevator arrives at the apartment, we tumble out into the foyer.

"First surface here," he breathes and abruptly he lifts me. "Wrap your legs around me."

"Do you know how much you turn me on?"

"You own me," he whispers. "My fate is in your hands, Ana."

"What?" I pant. "No… I…"

I do as I'm told, and he turns and lays me down on the foyer table, so he's standing between my legs. I'm aware that the usual vase of flowers is missing. Huh? Reaching into his jeans pocket, he fishes out a foil packet and hands it to me, undoing his fly.

"Well, you do," he mutters, "all the time." He grabs the foil packet from my hands. Oh, this is so quick, but after all his tantalizing teasing, I want him badly -- right now. He gazes down at me as he rolls on the condom, then puts his hands under my thighs, spreading my legs wider.

I try, I really do, but the feeling is so exquisite. What I've been waiting for after all his teasing. Oh, the fullness, this feeling… I groan and arch my back off the table.

"Open!" he growls, tightening his hands on mine and thrusting sharply into me so that I cry out.

I blink my eyes open, and he stares down at me wide-eyed. Slowly he withdraws, then sinks into me once more, his mouth slackening and then forming an Ah…, but he says nothing. Seeing his arousal, his reaction to me -- I light up inside, my blood scorching through my veins. His gray eyes burn into mine. He picks up the rhythm, and I revel in it, glory in it, watching him, watching me -- his passion, his love -- as we come apart, together.

I call out as I explode around him, and Christian follows.

Positioning himself, he pauses. "Keep your eyes open. I want to see you," he whispers, and clasping both my hands with his, he sinks slowly into me.

"Yes, Ana!" he cries. He collapses on me, releasing my hands and resting his head on my chest. My legs are still wrapped around him, and under the patient, maternal eyes of the Madonna paintings, I cradle his head against me and struggle to catch my breath.

I lie naked in Christian's bed, sprawled over his chest, panting. Holy cow -- does his energy ever wane? Christian trails his fingers up and down my back.

I murmur my assent. I have no energy left for talking. Raising my head, I turn unfocused eyes to him and bask in his warm, fond gaze. Very deliberately, I angle my head down so he knows I am going to kiss his chest.

He raises his head to look at me. "I'm not finished with you yet," he murmurs and leaning up, he kisses me.

"Satisfied, Miss Steele?"

"Is sex like this for everyone? I'm surprised anyone ever goes out," I murmur, feeling suddenly shy.

He tenses momentarily, and I plant a soft kiss in his chest hair, breathing in his unique Christian smell, mixed with sweat and sex. It's heady. He rolls onto his side so I'm lying beside him and gazes down at me.

He grins. "I can't speak for everyone, but it's pretty damned special with you, Anastasia." He bends and kisses me.

"That's because you're pretty damned special, Mr. Grey," I agree, smiling and caressing his face. He blinks down at me, at a loss.

"You don't like compliments."

"You smell good," I murmur, stretching out beneath him, my limbs pleasurably tight and creaky from all our exploits yesterday. I wrap my arms around his neck. "Don't go."

I open my eyes; it's morning. I turn to face him, but he's up and dressed and fresh and delicious, leaning over me.

"Go to sleep, Anastasia."

"I love you. Go to sleep." He nuzzles my hair, and I drift into sleep, safe in his arms, dreaming of sunsets and French doors and wide staircases… and a small copper-haired boy running through a meadow, laughing and giggling as I chase him.

He says nothing for a minute, but I sense his grin.

"Gotta go, baby." Christian kisses me just below my ear.

"I loved the house," I murmur.

"What time is it?" Oh no… I don't want to be late.

Hmm… But he is pretty damned special. Jeez… why doesn't he realize this?

"Don't panic. I have a breakfast meeting." He rubs his nose against mine.

"It's late. Go to sleep," he says. He kisses me, then lies down and pulls me to him so we're spooning in bed.

I nod sleepily at him, and he smiles his new shy smile.

He cocks his head to one side and raises his eyebrow. "Miss Steele -- are you trying to keep a man from an honest day's work?"

"As tempting as you are, I have to go." He kisses me and stands. He's wearing a really sharp dark navy suit, white shirt, and navy tie, and he looks every inch the CEO… the hot CEO.

In the shower, Inspiration hits me. I've thought of another birthday present for Christian. It's so difficult to buy something for the man who has everything. I've already given him my main present, and I still have the other item I bought at the tourist shop, but this is one present that will really be for me. I hug myself in anticipation as I switch off the shower. I just have to prepare it.

"Laters, baby," he murmurs and he's off.

Glancing at the clock, I note it's already seven -- I must have slept through the alarm. Well, time to get up.

In the walk-in closet, I put on a dark red fitted dress with a square neckline, cut quite low. Yes, this will do for work.

Now for Christian's present. I start rummaging through his drawers, looking for his ties. In the bottom drawer I find those faded, ripped jeans, the ones he wears in the playroom -- the ones he looks so hot in. I stroke them gently, using my whole hand. Oh my, the material is so soft.

She's right. When I stand up I notice his ties are hanging at the end of his clothes rail. I find my favorite and exit quickly.

I shudder. My subconscious scowls at me -- this is before you. Forget them.

Beneath them, I find a large, black, flat cardboard box. It piques my interest immediately. What's in here? I stare at it, feeling like I'm trespassing again. Taking it out, I shake it. It's heavy as if it holds papers or manuscripts. I cannot resist, I open the lid -- and quickly shut it again. Holy fuck -- photographs from the Red Room. The shock makes me sit back on my heels as I try to wipe the image from my brain. Why did I open the box? Why has he kept them?

Those photos are BA -- Before Ana. My subconscious nods with approval, but it's with a heavier heart that I head into the main room for breakfast. Mrs. Jones smiles at me warmly and then frowns.

"Yes," I murmur, distracted. "Do you have a key to the… um, playroom?"

I feel more ambivalent about this gift now, but only since the discovery of those photographs. Nothing's changed! my subconscious barks at me again, glaring at me over her half-moon winged glasses. That one picture you saw was hot, my inner goddess chips in, and mentally I scowl at her. Yes it was -- too hot for me.

"Just granola. I won't be long."

What else does he have hidden away? Quickly I ferret through the museum chest, take what I need, and lock the playroom door behind me. Wouldn't do for José to discover this!

"Everything all right, Ana?" she asks kindly.

She pauses momentarily, surprised. "Yes, of course." She unclips a small bunch of keys from her belt. "What would you like for breakfast, dear?" she asks as she hands me the keys.

I hand the keys back to Mrs. Jones and sit down to devour my breakfast, feeling odd that Christian is absent. The photographic image dances, unwelcome, around my mind. I wonder who it was. Leila, perhaps?

From: Christian Grey

You have a one-track mind.

====================

Date: June 17 2011 09:03

Subject: Surfaces

I calculate that there are at least 30 surfaces to go. I am looking forward to each and every one of them. Then there's the floors, the walls -- and let's not forget the balcony.

To: Christian Grey

Priapic CEO, Grey Enterprises Holdings, Inc.

On my drive in to work, I debate whether or not to tell Christian I found his photographs. No, screams my subconscious, her Edvard Munch face on. I decide she's probably right.

====================

After that there's my office…

To: Anastasia Steele

Miss you. x

Christian Grey

His e-mail makes me smile, and all my earlier reservations evaporate. It's me he wants now, and memories of last night's sex-capades flood my mind… the elevator, the foyer, the bed. Priapic is right. I wonder idly what the female equivalent might be?

Subject: Romance?

From: Anastasia Steele

Date: June 17 2011 08:59

As I sit down at my desk, my BlackBerry buzzes.

Mr. Grey

To: Anastasia Steele

A x

Date: June 17 2011 09:12

From: Anastasia Steele

To: Christian Grey

I hate it when you keep things from me.

Subject: Intrigued

Date: June 17 2011 09:10

Date: June 17 2011 09:07

====================

But Mrs. Jones was very accommodating.

From: Christian Grey

Love you.

Curious CEO, Grey Enterprises Holdings, Inc.

From: Anastasia Steele

Christian Grey

How does he know?

====================

Date: June 17 2011 09:14

Subject: Frustrated

To: Anastasia Steele

I stare at the small screen of my BlackBerry. The vehemence implicit in his e-mail takes me by surprise. Why does he feel like this? It's not like I'm hiding erotic photographs of my exes.

Subject: Tapping Nose

What are you up to, Miss Steele?

What was Mrs. Jones accommodating about?

From: Christian Grey

Christian Grey

I missed you at breakfast.

====================

Wait and see -- it's a surprise.

A x

CEO, Grey Enterprises Holdings, Inc.

Subject: Indulging you

====================

I need to work… let me be.

Subject: Hello

He doesn't reply, and I feel a frisson of unease. I hope he's okay. Calling his cell phone, I get his voice mail. The announcement simply says "Grey, leave a message" in his most clipped tone.

He doesn't reply immediately, and I'm called into a meeting so I can't dwell on it for too long.

To: Christian Grey

A x

From: Anastasia Steele

Are you not talking to me?

To: Christian Grey

Date: June 17 2011 16:03

It's for your birthday.

When I next glance at my BlackBerry, to my horror I realize it's four in the afternoon. Where has the day gone? Still no message from Christian. I decide to e-mail him again.

Don't be so petulant.

====================

Please rethink about joining us.

Another surprise.

Don't forget I am going for a drink with José, and that he's staying with us tonight.

A x

"Hi… um… it's me. Ana. Are you okay? Call me," I stutter through my message. I've never had to leave one for him before. I flush as I hang up. Of course he'll know it's you, idiot! My subconscious rolls her eyes at me. I am tempted to ring his PA, Andrea, but decide that's a step too far. Reluctantly I continue my work.

Wow. Kate is home. How am I going to tell her all that has happened? I should write it down so I don't forget anything.

An hour later my office phone rings -- Christian? No, it's Claire.

"See you back at the apartment?"

"Cool. I have so much to tell you, too."

"I'm having drinks with José. Join us."

José must be here. I glance at the clock -- it's five fifty-five, and a small thrill of excitement pulses through me. I haven't seen him in ages.

"Okay." I beam.

"Good. Laters!"

"Ana!" she shouts from wherever she is.

"José's in town? Sure! Text me where."

"Still with Christian?"

My phone rings unexpectedly and my heart jumps. Christian! But no -- it's Kate, my best friend, finally!

"Yeah -- laters, baby." I grin and she hangs up.

"Yes."

"You good, Ana?"

Oh, not her, too. Elliot's influence knows no bounds.

"Me, too. I have so much to tell you. We're at Sea-Tac -- me and my man." She giggles in a most un-Kate-like way.

"Kate! Are you back? I've missed you."

"You should see the guy asking for you in Reception. How come you know all these hot guys, Ana?"

"Yeah, I'm fine."

"And I've been commissioned to do some landscapes for the Portland Tourist Board. Pretty cool, huh?" he finishes proudly.

"It is. You should see inside."

"I'll grab my things and we can go."

He's wearing jeans, a black T-shirt, and a black-and-white-checked flannel shirt.

"Can't wait. Salud, Ana. Seattle agrees with you."

"You found Christian's place okay?"

Just because I'm wearing a smart dress… jeez!

"Ana, wow! You look great. So grown-up." He grins at me.

"Cool. I'll wait here."

"It's just the shoes, José. You don't look so bad yourself."

"Yeah. I haven't been inside. I just delivered the photos to the service elevator. Some guy named Taylor took them up. Looks like quite a place."

I flush as we clink bottles. It's Christian that agrees with me. "Salud. Tell me about your show and how it went."

He hugs me hard. "And tall," he mutters in amazement.

He beams and launches into the story. He sold all but three of his photos, which has taken care of his student loans and left him with some money to spare.

I pick up two Rolling Rocks from the crowded bar and head over to the table where José is seated.

"Nah, Ana. None of them are woman enough for me." He's all bravado.

"He's good. We're good," I murmur.

"Ana!"

"Oh, José. You know what my mom says -- I was born old."

"So, how's Grey?" he asks, his tone changing, becoming cooler.

"He's not too old for you?"

"Nah. Now that you guys have gone, plus three of the guys I used to hang out with, I have more time."

"Yes. Serious."

"Oh, José-- that's wonderful. Not interfering with your studies though?" I frown at him.

"Serious, you say?"

"Sure you do." I mollify him.

"How is your mom?" And like that, we are out of the danger zone.

"Oh sure. José Rodriguez, lady-killer." I giggle.

José's mouth twists wryly.

I turn and there's Kate with Ethan. She looks gorgeous: bleached strawberry-blonde hair, golden tan, and beaming white smile, and so shapely in her white camisole and tight white jeans. All eyes are on Kate. I leap up from my seat to give her a hug. Oh, how I've missed this woman!

"No hot babe to keep you busy? Last time I saw you, you had half a dozen women hanging on your every word." I arch an eyebrow at him.

"Hey -- I have my moments, Steele." He looks vaguely hurt, and I am chastened.

"You're okay?" she asks gently.

José frowns at him.

"Yeah, at Kate's place in Vancouver," Ethan says, smiling pleasantly at José. "Right -- who's for a drink?"

"Hi, Ana," he whispers in my ear.

"How was lunch with Mia?" I ask Ethan.

"Ethan -- you know José?"

"Hi, Ethan." I grin at him, and he gives me a quick hug.

She pushes me away from her and holds me at arm's length, examining me closely. I flush under her intense gaze.

"Cool."

"Interesting," he says cryptically.

Oh?

"Yes." I smile, though I'd be happier knowing where Christian is.

"You've lost weight. A lot of weight. And you look different. Grown-up. What's been going on?" she says, all mother hen. "I like your dress. Suits you."

"A lot's happened since you went away. I'll tell you later, when we're on our own." I am not ready for the Katherine Kavanagh Inquisition just yet. She regards me suspiciously.

"We've met once," José mutters, assessing Ethan as they shake hands.

I make my way to the restrooms. While there I text Christian our location; perhaps he'll join us. There are no missed calls from him and no e-mails. This is not like him.

"What? What do you mean?"

"Hi, baby," she says when she answers it. Baby! She frowns and looks at me. "Sure," she says and turns to me. "It's Elliot… he wants to talk to you."

"He'll be fine. Like another beer?"

Kate leans across. "Ethan says some mad stalker ex-girlfriend was in the apartment with a gun?"

"Well… yeah." I shrug apologetically. Oh jeez -- do we have to do this now?

"Ana." Elliot's voice is clipped and quiet, and my scalp prickles ominously.

"It's Christian. He's not back from Portland."

"What's wrong?"

"Charlie Tango?" I whisper as all the breath leaves my body. "No!"

"Ana -- what the hell's been going on?" Kate stops abruptly and checks her phone.

"Sure."

"I can't reach Christian. I hope he's okay."

"Whassup, Ana?" José asks as I come back to the table.

"His helicopter has gone missing."