Freed (Fifty Shades as Told by Christian #3) - E.L. James Page 0,18

I understand why they want to expand. But what I can’t get a handle on is why they’re looking to the U.S. for investment.”

“Uncle Sam is on our side,” Ros asserts.

“True. I’m sure there will be tax advantages, but it’s a big step to move some of our construction effort out of Seattle. I need to know they’re solid, and that it works for GEH.”

“Christian, it’ll be cheaper in the long run. You know this.”

“Undoubtedly, and with the price of steel climbing as it is right now, it might be the only way to keep the GEH shipyard open long term and retain jobs here.”

“I think we should do a full impact assessment on what this will mean for our shipyard and the workforce.”

“Yes.” I respond. “That’s a smart idea.”

“Okay. I’ll talk to Marco and get his team on it. But I don’t think we can stall for too long. They’ll go elsewhere.”

“I get it. What’s next?”

“The plant. Detroit. Bill has identified three potential brownfield sites and we’re waiting for you to make a decision.” She gives me a pointed look; she knows I’ve been procrastinating.

Why the fuck does it have to be Detroit?

I sigh. “Okay. I know Detroit is offering the best incentives. Let’s do a comparative cost analysis, then talk through the pros and cons of each site. Let’s try and get that done by next week.”

“Okay. Good.”

We move on to discuss Woods once more, and what legal recourse we’re going to take, if any, for his disregard of our NDA.

“I think he’s hung himself,” I mutter with disdain. “The press has not been kind to him.”

“I’ve drafted a letter and threatened legal action.”

“And expressed our disappointment?”

She laughs. “Yes.”

“Let’s see if that shuts him up. Asshole,” I mumble under my breath, but Ros frowns in disapproval at my epithet.

“He is an asshole,” I exclaim in my defense. “And he’s a suspect.”

Ever the professional, Ros ignores my rudeness. “On a personal note—we’re on track for your house purchase. You’ll need to put the money in escrow. I’ll send you the details and we can proceed with the surveys.”

“I told my contractor that we’ll start them next week, though I’m not sure I need them. I’ll be making changes to the house.”

“It can’t do any harm. It would be good for your contractor to know what they’re up against.”

I nod. “You’re right.”

Her brows knit together once more. “You know, I’ve been thinking.” She pauses.

“What?”

“Given the threat to your life, have you thought about installing a panic room in your apartment?”

I’m taken aback. “No, it’s never occurred to me. I live in a penthouse. But you’re right, maybe I should now.”

Her smile is grim. “My work here is done.”

“Not quite.” From under the table I grab the Nordstrom bag that Taylor delivered earlier this morning. “These are for you. As promised.”

“What?” Ros frowns, puzzled, as she takes the bag and peeks inside.

“Manolos,” I say. “Your size, hopefully.”

“Christian, you—” she protests.

I hold up my hands. “I gave you my word. I hope they fit.”

She inclines her head and regards me with what looks like affection. It’s unnerving. “Thank you,” she says. “And for the record, in spite of what happened, I would fly with you again, anytime.”

Wow. That is the greatest compliment.

After she’s left, I sit down at my desk and call Vanessa Conway in Procurement. I’ve been meaning to do this for a couple of days.

“Mr. Grey,” she answers.

“Hi, Vanessa, this is a tall order, but here goes: after my helicopter went down Ros and I were rescued by a guy named Seb, who drove a semi. He’s a one-man operation. I don’t know if we could use him—he drives a huge rig.”

“You want me to contact him?”

“I do. But you’ll need to find him first. I don’t have his details.”

“Hmm. I’ll see what I can do.”

“He travels mostly between Portland and Seattle. I think.”

“Okay. Leave it with me.”

“Thanks, Vanessa.” I hang up and wish once more that Seb had given me a card. At least he has mine, if he hasn’t thrown it away. I’d like to repay him somehow.

I turn to my computer to check my e-mails. There’s one from Ana.

From: Anastasia Steele

Subject: Missing you

Date: June 23 2011 11:03

To: Christian Grey

That is all.

Axx

From: Christian Grey

Subject: Missing you more

Date: June 23 2011 11:33

To: Anastasia Steele

I wish you’d change your mind and move the rest of your things to Escala this weekend.

You’re with me every night as it is and what’s the point in paying rent for a place that you