This is a late birthday present to a sweet friend - Heather! Part two is coming tomorrow. :)

For two years, she was focused. Pushing forward to reach the goals she set for herself. Never wavering in the dreams that lingered in her mind day after day. Becoming the mayor of her hometown was Olivia Pope's dream. For now.

After graduating from law school in DC, she moved back to sunny and warm Florida. To see what needed to be done. Observing how life had become in this town. There were success and then depressing times. It could get better - treating the residents better, letting their voices be heard. All the time.

She wanted change. She knew the city needed change. She was ready to provide that change.

Leading others was the goal. At every level. The application wasn't as hard as she thought. With money she received on her 21st birthday and saving over the years, Olivia took the next step. Her parents supported her. Friends were ready to campaign on her behalf.

The path was not easy. Her competitors were trying to find all sorts of opposition. A woman had not be elected as mayor before and she was determined to be the first.

Word was getting around that Olivia Carolyn Pope was on this mission. Usually a quiet individual, carrying a big stick, it was time to shed that persona and be the voice her potential constituents deserved and needed.

Securing her folders into a briefcase, with her purse and a coffee tumbler, she was ready for another day. Smartly dressed in a black sleeveless dress and pumps, Olivia was going to kick major tail. Her office - a event planning firm - was across town, doubling up as her mayoral headquarters.

"Good morning!"

Olivia looked up. The voice was from across the street. A man, in a crisp white t-shirt and jeans, waved. She had never seen him before. Or at least she didn't think she had met him before. The million dollar-watt smile threw her off. Responding with a quick nod, she calmly greeted, "Good morning."

As she drove away, she caught another peek in her rearview mirror. That face. It drew her in. She wasn't going to forget that face.

Olivia desperately needed to get some items from the grocery store. Her cabinets were bare, due to not having any time to shop. The campaign was up and running and she was all over the town. Having written down a list before she left the office, Olivia was confident she could get in and out without making a scene.

Marching down the aisles with her cart, Olivia was able to daydream. But knowing that she could be noticed at any time, Olivia had to keep a decent attitude. Even though she was extremely tired. She was always tired.

"Hi."

The same voice from the morning rung in her ears. Instead of jumping in shock, Olivia casually turned around. In the same outfit. Exact crooked smile. But now she was able to see his blue eyes.

"Hi."

"You're Olivia Pope?"

Subtly shifting her dark hair from one shoulder, she answered confidently, "Yes, sir."

"Awesome," the man said. His voice was deep and beautiful. "Fitz."

Olivia did not know why this Fitz was intentionally wanting to talk to her.

"I moved in the house across the street from you a few months ago."

"Oh," she commented. That was around the time she put her name in the hat. No wonder why she didn't notice. Anything and anyone who wasn't involved with the campaign wasn't visible in her mind.

"I thought I'd come and say hi. I see we frequent the same grocery store."

Olivia stared at Fitz. "Oh, I'm sorry. I'm being so rude. Yes, Kroger definitely has everything I need, so might as shop here."

"Well," he chuckled. "I'll leave you be. I hope to see you around."

"Nice to meet you, Fitz."

It felt like every time Olivia went outside, the door from across the street would open. Was this man stalking her? Waiting to make an appearance at the exact time she needed to bolt away.

Then as she walked to her Mercedes, Olivia could feel her heart skip a beat when she heard his voice.

"Good morning, Olivia."

Waving, she rushed to the car, slamming the door shut. Her thoughts needed to be centered. Eye on the prize. She just didn't have time for this. Whatever "this" was.

A few hours later, Olivia was making an appearance at the community center. More of a meet and greet with anyone who wanted to know more about the candidates. She came with brochures, a colorful chart, pens and notebooks. One of her best friends, Harrison Wright, joined her to help out. He was being her right hand, and they worked very well together. Keeping each other balanced.

It was a fantastic opportunity to step forward and make her presence known.

Residents shuffled in; Olivia gave her best smile and greeted everyone. Shaking hands, taking pictures. Answering questions about budgets, growth for schools, and other issues.

There was a lull for five minutes. Olivia and Harrison sat down to rest their feet.

"This is going great, Liv," Harrison encouraged, adjusting his blue tie.

Giving a quick smile, she agreed. "Doing whatever it takes. I just want to come out on top." Just as she began to relax, Fitz Grant was walking towards her, with a confident swag in his walk. Her eyebrows lowered. "You have got to be kidding," she mumbled.

"Who's that," Harrison asked.

Olivia groaned, "My neighbor."

"Hello, Olivia Pope."

Clearing her throat, Olivia kindly greeted an enthusiastic Fitz. "Good afternoon. Funny seeing you here. Don't you work?"

"Actually, I do," Fitz joked. "I work for myself. At home. But as a resident, I am obligated to find out more about our mayoral candidates. I heard about this on the radio, so it made sense to stop by."

Already seeing that Fitz was a snarky creature, Olivia simply nodded and grinned. "Very good."

"Harrison Wright."

Olivia and Fitz both glanced at Harrison, who interrupted at the perfect time, extending his hand.

Accepting the handshake, Fitz introduced himself, "I'm Olivia's neighbor, Fitzgerald Grant."

Harrison shot a look at Olivia, who snarled so fast in return, it shut him up.

"Thank you for coming, Mr. Grant. We appreciate your interesting in the Pope campaign."

Fitz placed his hands on his hips. "So, what's the agenda for today?"

Olivia stood, showing off a cream top and grey slacks - a modern and determined look - as if others would come and hear her. "We are introducing some of the projects we would like to fulfill when we get into office."

"When?"

"Yes," Olivia replied with a wink. "I am confident our residents will recognize that change is needed in our community, and that we can accomplished so much."

Fitz scanned the material. "You're such a confident woman, Miss Pope."

Olivia cleared her throat again, to deflect any kind of flirtatious vibes. "I'm just doing what I can to serve the people."

Their eyes locked. As her gaze focused on his smile, Olivia felt that thump again.

"Miss Pope?"

Olivia blinked quickly, "Yes?"

A young lady with a cameraman was at the table. She asked for an interview. Olivia agreed to it. While setting up and talking with the reporter, she saw that Fitz winked and mouthed "goodbye".

"What was up with your neighbor? Does he like you?"

Olivia rolled her eyes, "I don't know. I only see him when I leave for work and twice in random situations."

Harrison patted her on the back. "You never know. Love comes when you least expect it."

"Love?" Olivia spat out. "What are you talking about?" The thought baffled her. She was too busy for any type of relationship. Olivia wanted to win.

"Just saying Liv. The people who you least expect, may show up and show out in unexpected ways."

The two returned to headquarters. Now there were about five people, taking phone calls, entering data, making this campaign thrive. Olivia greeted the whole bunch, before escaping to her office.

Afternoon hours were hellish, especially at the end of the week. Olivia moved around the space like a bunny, hopping from the lobby to her desk, and repeating. She probably got more than her recommended steps every day.

"Oh my God, Liv!"

"What?"

Abby Whelan, one of Olivia's campaign managers and advisors, shouted, "We received a $10,000 donation!"

Olivia rushed from her desk to where Abby was sitting. Eyes filled with wonder, she screamed, "What? Are you sure? Is it a joke?"

"No, Liv, look."

"Thank you for your donation of $10,000…" Olivia could feel a lump in her throat. This was huge for her and the campaign. In the six months they had been publicly running, they had received a few checks ranging from $25 to $1000. It was nice, but far less than the incumbent mayor, Hollis Doyle, and the seasoned councilman David Rosen. Thankfully, Olivia was getting support as she made more appearances. But this was the boost she needed. This could put a dent in the competition's plans.

"Is there a name?"

Abby shook her head. "It was anonymous. Maybe one of the owners of the golf course donated. They really liked what you had to say. But who cares, we're very grateful!"

"Wow," Olivia spoke in amazement. Hoping her father wasn't pulling any strings, she could sense a little bit of accomplishment. "This must mean we're being seen and the people are supporting this."

The night was young but Olivia was exhausted. Feet aching, with a migraine ready to make a debut. It was time to collapse on the sofa, but there was still work to do. Writing and editing speeches for an upcoming town hall debate. All of the public appearances were child's play in comparison to this important meeting.

Pulling up into the driveway, Olivia stopped the engine, placing her head on the steering wheel. It was getting to be a lot. Barely having time to focus on her business. Hiring more people to help. Knowing of the advice given to her by parents and mentors, Olivia knew the climb to this particular success would be difficult. With the obvious roadblocks, it was known she had to work twice as hard to be half as good. Relaxation and a social life had to take a backseat. Not with the countdown of three months remaining.

The phone buzzed. A text from Harrison reminded her that she had been in the car for twenty minutes. Olivia decided to leave all the crap inside and collect them in the morning. Trudging her way up the steps, she gasped when she noticed a dark figure in front of the door. The person turned to face her.

"Hi, Olivia."

"Shit!" Olivia covered her mouth. "What are you doing?

Fitz lifted his hands. "I'm sorry. I saw your car and I thought you were inside. I was about to knock on the door to see if you had eaten."

"Eaten? When did you become my nutritionist?"

Fitz raised his eyebrows. "Yes. I brought some dinner. And yes, last time I checked you're running for mayor. From what I saw, you had a hell of a busy day. I don't know. I hope you like pasta, marinara, and bread. Maybe you don't want to eat it now, but maybe you can some for lunch."

With a semi-defeated sigh, Olivia expressed her appreciation. "You are so kind. I guess good neighbors are still exist."

"They are."

Olivia stuck her key in the door. "Please, come in."

Frantically switching the light on and kicking her heels off, Olivia attempted to make a suitable host of herself for Fitz.

"Olivia, you're okay. Don't mind me."

"I can't have you snitching about my pathetic living space," Olivia retorted, moving random items to the side off the floor.

Fitz laughed.

When she finally took a breath, she got a good look at her guest. He was beautiful. Over six feet tall, with a healthy mane of brown hair. Fitz Grant was such a handsome man.

"Are you hungry?"

"Nope," Fitz shook his head. "This is just for you."

Olivia frowned. "I can't look like a pig."

"I'm not going to judge you."

"Fine," she sighed, plopping down on the couch. "Thank you."

Fitz stretched his arms. "You are very welcome."

Olivia willed her way not to answer in a smart-ass tone. The spread looked so nice on the plate. It had been days since she had a visually attractive meal. Wine and popcorn had become her to-go.

"Wow, this is very good. Where did you get it?"

Fitz leaned forward, "I whipped it up and made too much."

"I call bullshit," Olivia joked. "You did this on purpose."

Cracking a smile, Fitz admitted. "I did. I wanted to find an excuse to talk to you."

Olivia dropped her fork. "What?"

"Yes," Fitz lowly replied, rubbing his chin. "You heard what I said."

"Why is that?"

Fitz plainly answered, "I find you to be extraordinary."

"You don't even know me."

Olivia angled her body so she could really see Fitz and how he would respond.

"But I want to."

Fitz took Olivia by surprise. She didn't get close to people. Others called her aloof and power-driven. Individuals who weren't connected to the mission she had, weren't invited in.

Placing her food on the coffee table, she decided to share, "There's not much to know. I work a lot. Work is my life. I don't have a lot of friends."

"That's okay," Fitz remarked. His eyes were clear and soulful; she could tell he wasn't lying. "You deserve the best, Olivia Pope. And not just the mayor's race."

Olivia's eyes widened as her jaw dropped slowly. She knew exactly what that meant. He was interested in what she was about and who she was.

"I don't know what to say," she answered quietly. The butterflies were stirring within her. Being so close to him, Olivia's breath hitched.

Fitz tapped her nose, grinning ever so sweetly. His voice was soft, but resonating. "You don't have to. But when you do, Miss Olivia Pope, I would love to hear every single word."

"Here," Fitz handed Olivia a piece of paper before rising from the couch. "Give me a call when you have time. Get some sleep, okay?"

Olivia nodded, trying to pull herself out of this daze. "Okay."

As they said their good nights, Olivia watched Fitz cross the street to his house. Contemplating over what happened, Olivia went to bed, hoping the sensations that she began this week would continue. For the first time, in a long time, she breathed easier as she drifted off to unconsciousness.