I hit send and sip my latte, courtesy of Hannah. Who knew I’d grow to love
coffee? In spite of the fact that I’m going out this evening with Kate, I feel like
a chunk of me is missing. At the moment, it’s thirtyfive thousand feet
somewhere above America en route to New York. I didn’t know I could feel
this unsettled and anxious just because Christian’s away. Surely over time I
won’t feel this loss and uncertainty, will I? I let out a hea一vy sigh and continue
with my work. Around lunchtime, I start manically checking my e-mail and my
BlackBerry for a text. Where is he? Has he landed safely? Hannah asks if I
want lunch, but I’m too apprehensive and I wa一ve her away. I know it’s
irrational, but I need to be sure he’s arrived safely. My office phone rings,
startling me. “Ana St—Grey.”
“Hi.” Christian’s voice is warm with a trace of amusement. Relief floods
through me.
“Hi,” I respond, grinning from ear to ear. “How was your flight?”
“Long. What are you doing with Kate?”
Oh no. “We’re just going out for a quiet drink.”
Christian says nothing.
“Sawyer and the new woman—Prescott—are coming with, to watch over us,”
I offer, trying to placate him.
“I thought Kate was coming to the apartment.”
“She is after a quick drink.” Please let me go out!
Christian sighs hea一vily. “Why didn’t you tell me?” he says quietly. Too quietly.
I mentally kick myself. “Christian, we’ll be fine. I ha一ve Ryan, Sawyer, and
Prescott here. It’s only a quick drink.”
Christian remains resolutely silent, and I know he’s not happy. “I’ve only seen
her a few times since you and I met. Please. She’s my best friend.”
185 | P a g e
Fifty Shades Freed
“Ana, I don’t want to keep you from your friends. But I thought she was
coming back to the apartment.”
“Okay,” I acquiesce. “We’ll stay in.”
“Only while this lunatic is out there. Please.”
“I’ve said okay,” I mutter in exasperation, rolling my eyes. Christian snorts
softly down the phone.
“I always know when you’re rolling your eyes at me.”
I scowl at the recei
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