fifty-shades-of-grey

“See, I knew you had a sense of humor somewhere in there.” I smile.“Only certain things are funny, Anastasia. I thought you were saying no, no discussionat all.” His voice drops.“I don’t know yet. I haven’t made up my mind. Will you collar me?”He raises his eyebrows.“You have been doing your research. I don’t know, Anastasia. I’ve never collaredanyone.”Oh… should I be surprised by this? I know so little about the scene… I don’t know.“Were you collared?” I whisper.“Yes.”“By Mrs. Robinson?”“Mrs. Robinson!” he laughs loudly, freely, and he looks so young and carefree, hishead thrown back, his laughter infectious.I grin back at him.“I’ll tell her you said that, she’ll love it.”“You still talk to her regularly?” I can’t keep the shock out of my voice.“Yes.” He’s serious now.Oh… and part of me is suddenly insanely jealous – I’m disturbed by the depth of myfeeling.“I see.” My voice is tight. “So you have someone you can discuss your alternativelifestyle with, but I’m not allowed.”He frowns.“I don’t think I’ve ever thought about it like that. Mrs. Robinson was part of that lifestyle.I told you, she’s a good friend now. If you’d like, I can introduce you to one of myformer subs, you could talk to her.”What? Is he deliberately trying to upset me?“Is this your idea of a joke?“No, Anastasia.” He’s bemused as he shakes his head earnestly.“No – I’ll do this on my own, thank you very much,” I snap at him, pulling the duvetup to my chin.He stares at me, at sea, surprised.“Anastasia, I… ” He’s lost for words. A first, I think. “I didn’t mean to offend you.”“I’m not offended. I’m appalled.”“Appalled?”“I don’t want to talk to one of your ex-girlfriends… slave… sub… whatever you callthem.”“Anastasia Steele – are you jealous?”I flush, crimson.“Are you staying?”“I have a breakfast meeting tomorrow at the Heathman. Besides, I told you, I don’tsleep with girlfriends, slaves, subs, or anyone. Friday and Saturday night were exceptions.It won’t happen again.” I can hear the resolve behind his soft, husky voice.I purse my lips at him.“Well I’m tired now.”