across his face, making me uneasy.
Putting his hands in his pockets, he saunters through the double doors. I frown at his retreating back. Drinks with the boss, is that a good idea?
I shake my head. I have an evening of Christian Grey to get through first. How am I going to do this? I hurry into the restroom to make last-minute adjustments.
In the large mirror on the wall, I take a long, hard look at my face. I am my usual pale self, dark circles round my too-large eyes. I look gaunt, haunted.
Jeez, I wish I knew how to use makeup. I apply some mascara and eyeliner and pinch my cheeks, hoping to bring some color their way. Tidying my hair so that it hangs artfully down my back, I take a deep breath. This will have to do.
Nervously I walk through the foyer with a smile and a wave to Claire at reception. I think she and I could become friends. Jack is talking to Elizabeth as I head for the doors.
Smiling broadly, he hurries over to open them for me.
âÂÂAfter you, Ana,â he murmurs.
âÂÂThank you.â I smile, embarrassed.
Outside on the curb, Taylor is waiting. He opens the rear door of the car. I glance hesitantly at Jack who has followed me out. HeâÂÂs looking toward the Audi SUV in dismay.
I turn and climb into the back, and there he sitsâÂÂChristian GreyâÂÂwearing his gray suit, no tie, his white shirt open at the collar. His gray eyes are glowing.
My mouth dries. He looks glorious except heâÂÂs scowling at me. Oh no!
âÂÂWhen did you last eat?â he snaps as Taylor closes the door behind me.
Crap. âÂÂHello, Christian. Yes, itâÂÂs nice to see you, too.âÂÂ
âÂÂI donâÂÂt want your smart mouth now. Answer me.â His eyes blaze.
Holy shit. âÂÂUm . . . I had a yogurt at lunchtime. OhâÂÂand a banana.âÂÂ
âÂÂWhen did you last