Fifty Shades Darker (book 5) novel Chapter 14

“Good day, sir.”

In the elevator at Grey House, I read her response.

* * *

From: Anastasia Steele

Subject: Pest

Date: June 10 2011 08:39

To: Christian Grey

Mr. Grey—I am trying to work for a living—and it’s you who will be begging.

Anastasia Steele

Assistant to Jack Hyde, Editor, SIP

Ha! I don’t think so.

“Good morning, Andrea.” I give her a friendly nod as I stride past her desk.

“Um,” she stalls, but recovers quickly, because she’s ever the adept PA. “Good morning, Mr. Grey. Coffee?”

“Please. Black.” I close my office door, and when seated at my desk respond to Ana.

* * *

From: Christian Grey

Subject: Bring It On!

Date: June 10 2011 08:42

To: Anastasia Steele

Why, Miss Steele, I love a challenge…

Christian Grey

CEO, Grey Enterprises Holdings, Inc.

I LOVE THAT SHE’S so feisty over e-mail. Life is never boring with Ana. I lean back in my chair with my hands behind my head, trying to understand my effervescent mood. When have I ever felt this cheerful? It’s frightening. She has the power to give me hope, and the power to make me despair. I know which I prefer. There’s a blank space on my office wall; perhaps one of her portraits should fill the void. Before I can brood on this further, there’s a knock on the door. Andrea enters, carrying my coffee.

“Mr. Grey, may I have a word?”

“Of course.”

She perches on the chair opposite me, looking nervous. “Do you remember I’m not here this afternoon and I’m not in on Monday?”

I stare at her, completely blank. What the hell? I don’t remember this. I hate it when she’s not here.

“I thought I should remind you,” she adds.

“Do you have someone covering for you?”

“Yes. HR is sending someone from another department. Her name is Montana Brooks.”

“Okay.”

“It’s only a day and a half, sir.”

I laugh. “Do I look that worried?”

Andrea gives me a rare smile. “Yes, Mr. Grey, you do.”

“Well, whatever you’re up to, I hope it’s fun.”

She stands. “Thank you, sir.”

“Do I have anything scheduled for this weekend?”

“You have golf tomorrow with Mr. Bastille.”

“Cancel it.” I’d rather have fun with Ana.

“Will do. You also have the masquerade ball at your parents’ place for Coping Together,” Andrea reminds me.

“Oh. Damn.”

“It’s been in the schedule for months.”