Almost six months had passed, and Fitz and Olivia were stronger than ever. As Fitz suspected three months ago his dad announced that he was retiring, and he was handing over the helms to his son.

The restructuring plan was still going well. They noticed a profit increase in more than 50% of their restaurants domestically, and 60% of the restaurants internationally saw a profit increase.

With Big Jerry announcing his retirement Fitz had to remain stateside as they began to transition. Big Jerry planned a huge retirement party and during the party he would officially hand over the reins to his son.

Olivia was still traveling. About a month after they returned to the states Big Jerry asked Olivia to unofficially oversee the international division. Fitz would make the final decision who would head once he was in charge. Olivia was happy to take on the new challenge.

She was worried the additional responsibilities would affect their new relationship, but Fitz once again proved that he was a real man. When she came to his office after talking to her dad and told him the news he seemed happier than she was. He took her out that night and celebrated.

When she was traveling he looked out for Nana. She had been so busy that she forgot her lease was up. Fitz asked her to move in with him. She immediately agreed.

She knew he was the one.

They were a week away from the retirement party. They were getting ready for Sunday dinner at Nana's house.

Fitz walked into their bedroom, "You about ready honey?"

"Yep, just got to get my shoes on."

"Did you talk to Nana?"

"I did, and she didn't need us to bring anything."

"Is your gown ready?"

"Yes, and thank you. The gown that I had was just fine."

"It was a beautiful gown, but you deserved a new one no expense spared."

"You made sure of that. Between Nana's and I."

"I work hard. I can spoil my girls."

Olivia giggled. After a couple of months, he began to refer to her and her grandmother as his girls. He treated her grandmother like she was his grandmother. If she was being honest that is when she realized he was the one. He did things for her, and she wouldn't find out about until she returned, or she was on the phone with her grandmother. That is how she knew it had nothing to do with impressing her. It wasn't about money. She recalled the time her grandmother called to tell her that Fitz sent someone to help her clear an area in her yard to plant the small garden that she had been talking about. The delight in her grandmother's voice brought her to tears.

"It feels nice to be spoiled."

"Good, because I never plan to stop."

"Stop saying things like that. It makes me feel all mushy inside and want to show you how much I love you. We don't have time for that. I don't want Nana getting any ideas."

"What kind of ideas?"

"Do you remember that time we were more than an hour late for dinner. We were both working, but I got to Nana's house before you."

He nodded

"Well when I walked in the door Nana was smiling at me and told me to feel free to be late to dinner anytime. I was confused and tried to explain we were both working. Then she said well if you were both working why didn't we just come together. I explained I was in the office, and you were at a restaurant. She laughs and says good story. Just tell me; is there a bun in the oven?"

"Are you serious?"

Olivia laughed, "Afraid so…."

He nodded

After a few moments I could only laugh. "Finally, I said, "In due time we would give her the good news."

Fitz looked up in shock.

Olivia walked over to him, "I'm all in remember."

He nodded

"I know that you are worried about what happens when you take over, but I am not. I don't mind working for my future husband. I think there might be some benefits in there for me.

"Really…Such as…"

"Well when you finally knock me up since you run things you should have no problem catering to me. after all I am still the employee."

Fitz laughed, "I look forward to catering to your every whim, but there is only one problem with that story."

"What's that?"

"You will never be just an employee. Trust me…"

She leaned in and kissed him, "I do…"

"Good now let's go. I'm already uncomfortable with Nana asking about our sex life."

Olivia burst out laughing.

A short time later they arrived at Velma's house. It was going to be just the three of them. Charlie was taking care of his sister who had recently had some minor surgery.

They greeted her.

Velma had never been happier. She was devastated to lose her only child, but she couldn't fall apart, because she had her granddaughter to take care of. They made it. She knew that Olivia could and should be running a company. She made a lot of decisions with her welfare in mind. She was grateful that her granddaughter loved her enough to care for her as she was getting up in age, but she was elated that Olivia had taken the leap with Fitz. It was working out for her personally and professionally. This is all that she ever wanted for her granddaughter.

Velma asked, "How are my two-favorite people?"

Fitz smiled, "I am great now that I see you."

Olivia kissed and hugged her Nana. She went and set the table while Fitz began to bring the dishes out. After Velma said grace the three caught up with each other.

Velma couldn't wait until one of these dinners included news of her becoming a great grandmother. She knew that their professional lives had to sort themselves out first. She was hopeful that would happen at the retirement party.

After dinner the trio retired to the patio to enjoy dessert and a bottle of wine. When the sun began to set Olivia sat back. It took her back to Greece.

Velma saw that Olivia was somewhere else. She asked, "Are you okay honey?"

She smiled, "Yeah, the scenery just reminds me of Greece."

Knowing that she was thinking of where everything really began for them made Fitz smiled.

Velma caught the smile on his face. "You know you two never told me about your first date. Every time we get together we are catching up with each other. Fill me in on the magical day even if there are dirty little details."

Both blushed. Olivia was more than happy to share one of the best days of her life with her grandmother.

Flashback

Olivia had to admit that she was excited about her date. This date felt like the beginning of forever for them. A story they would share with their family, friends, and one day their children. She knew it wasn't going to be just a simple dinner. Several times she thought about telling him not to do too much, but she decided to let Fitz do whatever. If he wanted to spoil her then so be it. She knew her heart as well as his. They weren't taking advantage of each other just simply falling in love.

From the moment they met she was always in business suits, and when she wore dresses they were for the purposes of work. Their dates in the hotel were casual. She wanted to put effort into her appearance. She wanted to show him that tonight meant everything to her as well.

When Fitz knocked on the door he was not ready for what was on the other side. She had told him that morning that she was heading down to the spa to get ready for their date. Fitz insisted on paying for an afternoon of pampering, and she took full advantage. While she was at the spa she befriended the manager, who called a friend to bring some dresses for her to choose from for her date. After she selected they took it to be steamed so it would be ready for her date. The manager even arranged for her hair and makeup to be done in her suite.

Olivia tried to pay her, but she explained that she and her sister owned the spa. They were happy to help, but if she wanted to tip the ladies for agreeing to do the services in her room she was more than welcome to it. They needed it more than she did. She had already decided that she would do that but would make sure that everyone knew how wonderful and personable the spa was.

Fitz was seeing the results of a team effort. She had selected a black Dolce & Gabbana corset tank dress that she had paired with some Calvin Klein leather Camri ankle tie sandals, a Saint Laurent Kate clutch, and a pair of Isabel Marant Mars earrings.

Fitz still had not said anything. Olivia was getting nervous. Finally, he looked at her and said, "I have never seen anyone more beautiful."

Olivia blushed, "Thank you…"

"You ready for an adventure?"

"With you I am…"

The first stop on their date was to the National Gardens of Athens. Olivia had seen some beautiful places, but Greece was stunning at every turn. As the couple walked in there was a vendor that sold them the traditional "koulouri Thessalonikis" which is a bread ring covered in sesame seeds. From the trees to the lakes it was all a remarkable sight. Out of everything that the garden offered their favorite thing was the sun dial. It was fun trying to guess the time without looking at their watch and phone.

Fitz looked at Olivia, "Are you having a good time so far?"

"The best…"

"Good…"

They walked around the garden a little longer before heading out.

A short time later they pull up to the restaurant for dinner. Olivia was impressed. It was a beautiful restaurant from the outside.

She was not prepared for what came next. When they were escorted to their table they were seated outside. It wasn't just any seat. The back drop of their table was the Mediterranean Sea.

Olivia turned around and looked at Fitz. He shrugged

"Fitz, I have read about this restaurant…"

He nodded, "Ithaki is expensive. Many celebrities dine here. I didn't pick this restaurant to show you how wealthy I am. I picked it to show you that you are my everything, and as long as you are with me I will treasure you and give you the best.

Her eyes were glistening with tears, "If you keep doing this I will never give you up."

"That's the plan."

As soon as they sat down their server brought them a bottle of 1993 Porfirogenitos Grand Reserve.

The server explained to the couple that the wine was a Limnio, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot that had been aging for 24 months in an oak barrel and then in bottles for about 15 years in underground cellars.

Olivia knew the bottle cost a pretty penny, but as she looked at Fitz she realized that he wasn't using his money to impress her. It was just something that he had. Every moment of this date had been set up with her in mind.

She leaned over and kissed him, "What was that for?"

"Because you are you. Other than my Nana and best friend no one has ever done anything for me. I have never felt so special."

"Well you deserve it Livvie. If you let me I will always treasure you."

She had no words so she simple leaned in and kissed him again.

The couple enjoyed a lavish dinner.

Olivia decided on lobster linguini and Fitz went with their Duck Filet.

They enjoyed their dinner and continued to get to know each other.

Olivia thought dinner was the end to their perfect date, but she found out that they had one more stop.

When they pulled up Olivia was moved to tears. She had mentioned several times that she wanted to go to the Thision Open Air Cinema. She loved movies, popcorn, and ice cream. To be able to watch an old movie and enjoy snacks with the Acropolis lit in the background was everything.

It truly was the perfect date from start to finish. Any doubt that she had that Fitz was the one was over by the end of the night.

End Flashback

Velma just sat there for a moment taking it all in. She finally looked at Fitz, "You are really making it hard for me to stay with Charlie. I am about two seconds from leaving him for you."

The couple burst out laughing.

Fitz leaned over and kissed Velma's forehead, "Nana, you will always be one of my favorite girls, but I can never leave you for my girl. She has my heart."

"I won't fight her for you under one condition."

"And what is that?"

"Give me some squishy great-grandbabies to spoil."

Fitz grabbed her hand, "I promise you we will. Olivia has a career, and I want her to shine. She deserves her moment. We will do it on her time."

Olivia leaned into Fitz, "Thank you honey, but once I get settled into whatever job I am assigned after you takeover then my focus will be on our family."

"If that's what you want…"

"It is…"

Velma grabbed their hands, "As long as the two of you continue to do this then you will be fine. Always talk to each other and never go to bed mad. Don't let anyone get between you two."

The couple grabbed each other's hand and nodded.

Velma asked, "Is Mellie still coming to the party with her dad?"

Fitz rolled his eyes, "Unfortunately, she never misses a chance to think that she is the belle of the ball. I have no doubt that she is up to something, but I understood when my dad said he had no reason to rescind the invitation to them. It wouldn't make business sense, and people would start asking questions. That would only cause more problems."

Velma looked at Olivia, "Are you prepared to deal with Mellie?"

"I'm your child, aren't I?"

Velma laughed, "That's my girl…"

Although not a lot of words were said he heard the tone change in Olivia's voice. He didn't want Mellie to run Olivia away. He had told her everything, but he knew Mellie would try and undermine him. He couldn't lose her, and he was scared, but she didn't sound scared at all."

Olivia looked at Fitz. She knew he was scared. She had never personally met Mellie, but it was clear to her that she was a snake. She knew that she still wanted Fitz. Not because she was in love with him, but because she felt that they had the same pedigree. She wanted to have the power that came with being a Grant. Mellie would soon find out that they might not come from the same pedigree, but she could be a snake herself when someone messed with those that she loved.

"Fitz, I am not going anywhere. I understand that you are concerned about what Mellie will try. She can bring her best and it still won't be good enough. She will find out that you are mine and I am never letting you go."

There was nothing more that needed to be discussed. They talked for a little while longer before the couple headed home.

The rest of the week before the party was hectic. They barely saw each other, and by the time they got home all they wanted to do is eat and go to bed.

The night of the party Olivia had decided ahead of time to get dressed at her grandmother's house. Fitz had arranged for a limo to pick them up. All the General Managers were invited so Abby would be attending the party. Olivia had taken the day off to enjoy a spa day with Abby and her grandmother. When they made it back to the house to get ready Fitz surprised them with a glam team to help get ready.

Olivia had gotten ready in her old bedroom, so Velma & Abby had not seen her since she went in with the team to get ready. None of them had gone to many black-tie events, and never any that had so many important people in the room. They could tell that Olivia was a little bit nervous. It wasn't about the people but wanting to look good for Fitz.

When she opened the door and stepped out they knew that Fitz was going to lose it when he saw her. Olivia had chosen a leaf green Zac Posen Bardot fishtail gown. The mermaid off the shoulder gown speaks old Hollywood.

She had decided to straighten her hair out. The ends were flipped for dramatic affect with a side part. They decided on minimal makeup.

Velma walked over to her granddaughter, "Wow…"

She had tears in her eyes, "What's wrong Nana?"

"Nothing honey. You just look so much like your mom tonight with your straightened. She loved dressing up."

Olivia smiled. She loved when her grandmother shared memories of her parents with her. She knew that being with Fitz meant a lot more formal functions in the future. She was okay with that, because she had a blast tonight getting ready. Now she knows she has that in common with her mom.

"Thanks Nana."

"You are welcome honey, but you are not quite ready to go yet?"

Olivia saw her clutch and shawl and clutch on the chair. She didn't know what she was missing.

Abby walked over to her smiling and handed her an envelope. When she opened it, she recognized Fitz's handwriting?

The note read:

Hi Livvie,

I know that you are a little confused, but I thought tonight was a good night to spoil you. After all I am about to become the man in charge. That kinds of makes you my First Lady. Tonight, is about celebrating all the work that my dad has done with the company, and the work that I will continue to do, but I also want tonight to be our official coming out. I love you and when pictures are taken tonight I want them to be the first of many as we take over the world together. I left a gift with your grandmother. You are my queen, and I want you to look that way tonight. I can't wait to see you. Love Always Fitz.

Velma hands her the box. Everyone gasped when they see the gift. It is a necklace and earring set. The necklace is 45 carat fancy cut diamond necklace with a pair of heart shaped diamond earrings.

Abby said, "If you don't want to be the queen I have to problem stepping in."

The ladies laughed, but they could still see that Olivia was hesitant.

Velma grabbed her granddaughter's hand, "That man loves you and he wants to spoil you. Both of you know your intent. There will be some people there who will think you are a gold-digger, but the people that matter will know the truth. Now if you start getting these gifts, and you no longer see him then you should be worried. I know my Fitzy, and I don't think that will ever be a problem for you. Your dad loved your mom with everything in him. He reminds me so much of Fitz. Your parents had a world wind romance, but back then we didn't wait when we knew we had found our soul mate. If Fitz is the one and we both know he is then you need to truly step forward with both feet tonight. Although you have been together almost a year it comes down to tonight. If Fitz is who you want, and you are truly ready for everything that comes with him then you should take the gift. If not, then you know what you need to do."

Olivia looked at her grandmother and best friend for a moment. She had heard every word her grandmother said. It would be an adjustment, but if she had Fitz she knew that she would be okay.

Olivia turned around, so they could put the jewelry on. She shared a few more moments with them knowing that life as she knew was going to change before the end of the night.

When they arrived at the venue they were taken to a special entrance. They were greeted by Lauren. Big Jerry's assistant also decided to retire. It allowed him to bring Lauren with him.

She greeted the ladies and let them know that Big Jerry and Fitz would be down in just a moment. Before he arrived, he had a surprise for Abby and Velma.

The door opened and in walked Stephen and Charlie. Charlie was supposed with his sister who stilled needed him, and Stephen was out of town on business.

What they found out was that Big Jerry had a friend who had a company of private duty nurses and assistants. They arranged for a nurse and CNA to be with Charlie's sister for the weekend so that Charlie could get a break to not only attend the party but give him some time with Velma before heading back. Fitz called Stephen and sent his plane to pick him up. He sent his tailor to Stephen to be measured for a tuxedo, and it was on the jet. He had only been back in town less than hour.

The women were amazed that Fitz had done this for them. They didn't have to wait long to thank him. He walked through the door and made his way over. They quickly hugged Fitz as they could tell that he wasn't focused on them, and they were okay with that.

Olivia stood to the side allowing them their moment. He quickly made his way over to her. From the moment he walked into the room and saw her he was speechless. He was glad to that Abby and Nana were thanking him because it gave him a moment to compose himself or, so he thought. As he made his way to her he realized that it hadn't.

He was not prepared to see his girlfriend. She looked like an angel. The gown fit her like a glove. From the moment they became a couple he was thankful that the man above felt that he was worthy of her. Tonight, he would make sure that he stayed on his knees a little longer for giving him his queen.

She knew that Fitz had his eyes on her the moment he walked in the room. She watched him hug her grandmother and best friend without taking his eyes off her, and it dawned on her that this is what she wanted. She wanted his approval. She wanted him to only see her.

She knew he wouldn't respond first. She grabbed his hand and said, "Hi…."

His face lit up like a little boy on Christmas morning, "Hi…"

"Thank you for taking care of Nana and Abby. You have made their night."

"They are your family. I know you want them happy, and there is nothing I won't do to make you happy."

"That goes both ways."

"I know. Livvie, you are a beautiful woman inside and out, but you have outdone yourself tonight. I am one lucky man to have you on my arm. I know this is inappropriate, but…."

"Well hello there Fitzgerald…"

Fitz cringes and turns around where he finds his ex-standing there looking at him and Olivia.

Olivia could feel the anger radiating off Fitz. It was a side of him that she had never seen, and she could clearly see how much he detested Mellie.

She squeezed his hand to remind him that she was with him, and that she was never going to leave his side.

Everyone including Olivia noticed how he quickly calmed down. She moved her hand.

Big Jerry was still worried and felt he needed to intervene, but Velma grabbed his hand. She gave him a look that said they got this.

Mellie had also noticed how quickly Olivia was able to calm Fitz down. She would never admit that made her jealous. Fitz could barely stand her touching him.

She remained composed and looked at Olivia, "So, you are the infamous Olivia Pope? I've read so much about you. I bet the media doesn't know how well you trained Fitz. Let me tell you it is easier now after all the work I did to put him back together."

Olivia gripped Fitz's hand even tighter, "I'm sure you have read a lot about me, and it wasn't from the media. I'm sure it was disappointing to you when your investigator didn't give you any ammunition to run me out of Fitz's life."

Mellie tried to deny the claim, but Olivia put her hand up.

She stepped up to Mellie and they were now face to face.

"I don't know you and I don't want to, but I know people like you. Until Fitz no one had to told you no, and that is what eats at you. You don't want him any more than you. You didn't put anything together. Well I take it back. You did put him together the moment he got enough sense to leave you. Now I am sure at this point you are seething, and that is okay. My future husband and father-in-law are due on stage in just a minute, so we have no more time for your shenanigans. We all know you came here for a reason which is why you lied to come back here where you were not invited. You don't need to remind me that we don't come from the same hue. Be careful of the next steps you take out there Millicent. They could easily be your last."

Everyone was in shock especially Mellie. Olivia was dead on. She was now seething.

Before she had a chance to come up with a comeback she was being escorted back to her table. Big Jerry and Fitz were in shock. People especially women cowered to Mellie, but Olivia didn't flinch. Both were inwardly proud for different reasons. Velma & Abby knew this side of Olivia was there. It didn't come out often, but they knew that Mellie had a problem on their hands. They were glad they would have a front row seat to her destruction that seemed inevitable.

Lauren took Velma, Charlie, Stephen, and Abby to their table. When the door closed Big Jerry and Fitz both took a deep breath.

Olivia looked at them, "We will be fine. We know she is up to something, and that is the most important thing. Anything she tries we will get through. I am not going anywhere, and the two of you have worked too hard to let her win. Besides I know neither of you came here tonight unprepared and we know what I mean."

Father and son looked at each other and smiled.

Big Jerry looked at Olivia, "I hope you meant what you said earlier about being my future daughter-in-law, because it would be an honor."

Olivia looked at Fitz and smiled. Never taking her eyes off him, "I meant every word."

Fitz leaned down and kissed her, "Good, because I am never letting you go…"

"Ditto…"

They talked amongst themselves for a few minutes before they were formally announced.

Time felt like it stood still for a moment as everyone. With the heavy demands of their work schedule they had not been seen in public much together. They had released a statement confirming they were a couple, but the media wasn't sure what to believe. The old Fitz flaunted the woman he was with around. This relationship was closely guarded, but seeing the couple together spoke volumes.

They oozed sex appeal, and you could tell by their body language they were in love. Every shot they took of the couple told a story, and everyone in the room knew that in the morning very little people would be talking about the retirement and changing of the guard. They would be talking about Olitz as Twitter quickly dubbed them.

Olivia noticed that her family and best friend were at the head table. The board was to the left and right of the head table. As they made their way up she took noticed that Mellie & her father who were part of the board were the farthest away.

Dinner went off without a hitch. People got up and spoke of their time with Big Jerry. Normally this part of the program was boring, but Big Jerry was such an interesting character that the stories were never boring. Olivia found herself learning more about the man that would be her future in-law, and Fitz found himself learning so much about his dad. Time flew by and before they knew it Big Jerry was standing at the podium giving his final speech and introducing Fitz as the CEO.

To everyone's surprise he kept the speech short and sweet. Now it was time to officially hand over he guard.

Big Jerry began, "I know this is the part of the ceremony where I officially hand over the company to my son, and I will for pictures sake. We all know I haven't done much work in weeks. I would like my son and his beautiful girl friend Olivia Pope to step up please."

Fitz helped Olivia up who was surprised to be joining Fitz. The crowed roared as the couple made their way to the podium. Many of the employees had worked with the couple together and separately. They enjoyed working for them and looked forward to the direction that Fitz was taking the company.

When they reached the podium, both greeted Big Jerry and the camera was there to capture the moment. Mellie was sitting in the corner seething. This should have been her moment.

Big Jerry began speaking again, "When my wife passed away it changed my life, but it shattered my son's life. The media always speculated why it affected my son more than it did me. I could tell you some grand story, but the truth is that I put more time and effort into this company than I did my family. The result was a successful company, but my family got the short end of the stick especially my son. His mother was his everything. Fortunately, she taught him about life, and that money isn't everything. He struggled for awhile as you all know. There are many people in this room who reported his every misstep, but obviously we don't hold it against you because you are here tonight (Laughter throughout the room. My son is a far better man than I will ever be, and the woman by his side makes him even better."

Applause throughout the room

"Many of you in this room have gotten to know Miss. Pope. She is more than my son's girlfriend. She worked alongside my son as he restructured the company. They were able to restructure the company with no jobs being lost and ensured that Grant Corporation is around for future generations. Olivia's experience and hard work stabilized our international sector. She helped to establish better relationships with the companies. Most of the international companies are smaller in size than our domestic companies. At my request I asked her to oversee the international division, and in the short time that she held the position we have seen 70% of the companies increase their revenue. We have also invested in two more restaurants and are considering several more at this time."

Cheers and applause were heard around the room. While clapping Fitz leaned over and pecked her lips. It was great hearing everyone cheer on her accomplishments, but it didn't compare to the feeling that Fitz gave her. Her man wasn't threatened by her but supported and encouraged her. She didn't think it could get any better, but she was wrong.

"I met with the board recently to get approval on my final actions as CEO of the Grant Corporation. First, the board voted to separate the domestic and international companies into two. Both will remain part of Grant Corporation but will now function as two companies. That means that my son will be taking over as CEO of the domestic portion of the company."

The announcement was met with murmurs throughout the room. Olivia was shocked to hear the announcement. She glanced over at Fitz who was calm, and she knew he was aware that the decision had been made.

"Finally, the board voted and approved Miss. Pope to be made the CEO of the international division of the Grant Corporation."

The room was quiet for a moment, and then there were cheers.

Olivia looked over at Fitz. He was grinning from ear to ear like he had just won the lottery.

A/N-Yes, I am stopping there. You got a couple more questions answered. You now have an idea what Fitz asked his father to do, but to throw you for a small loop. Only one of those decisions the board voted on was what Fitz wanted. Can you guess which one? What do you think Mellie is going to do to derail Olivia's moment? Until next time….