Recap: As I read through Fifty Shades of Grey for my first time ever, I’m blogging my thoughts. So far, this is where I am. Ana has met Christian. Christian has “stalked” Ana–this is either creepy or not based on your personal definitions of what constitutes stalking. Christian says she should stay away but can’t stay away himself. Ana gives in to desire. Virginity is appropriately dispensed with. Sex contract has been delivered and read. And now I’m at chapter 12.

1. She asks herself the question, “Why is he like this?” And I think that’s a really smart question in this particular case. Because BDSM is a lifestyle choice for a lot of people, or it’s a hobby and fun once-in-a-while thing for others. But Christian seems to have a psychological need and it’ll be interesting to see where that stems from. I don’t think it’s from the lady who used to be his Domme.

2. I like the emailing. That’s a fun way to keep them connected and keep the sexual tension flowing even when the two main characters are physically separated.

3. Showing up in her room in response to her joke email…that’s skirting some of my limits. I understand control freaks. I have them in my life. But yeah…there are limits.

4. I’m glad her medulla oblongata recalled its purpose. Mine must be having an existential crisis, because it’s not really sure what its purpose is.

5. By now, Anastasia, how the f%#@ can you NOT be aware you’re biting your lip??? If my husband gives me so much as a disapproving grunt about something, I become perpetually self-conscious and never, ever, ever do that something again.

6. White wine kisses…yummy!!

7. So he’s kind of transitioning her into the idea of bondage and I like how he’s doing it. Tying her hands with his tie, blindfolding her with her t-shirt.

8. So okay, the contract is symbolic and just kind of like a really intense, wordy handshake? I think they should just shake on it. Or pinky swear. “I pinky swear to let you spank me whenever you want, Mr. Grey.” “I pinky swear to spank you whenever I want, Miss Steele.”

Okay, so this was a couple chapters of Ana coming to terms with what Christian wants and what she’s willing to give. And since there’s a lot more chapters, I’m going to go ahead and make the assumption that she gives it a shot. Still reading and enjoying at this point. To tell you the truth, this is a lot sweeter than I expected. I get the feeling he’s really falling for her. I’m not sure how contentious an issue this bondage thing will be for the two of them.