President Grant and trusted Cabinet members will be spending the next few days at Camp David, where he will focus on new education reforms. This will be the first time the President will leave Washington since the announcement of his separation to the First Lady. Although the Grants have not publicly attended any events since the press release, there has been no word on further proceedings.

It took her two full days to be convinced. Keeping the invitation a secret, Olivia mulled over all the reasons of why she couldn't follow Fitz to Catoctin Mountain. Logic ruled her psyche. Unless it was absolutely necessary, she didn't travel with clients. At all. They were all in the 20 mile radius of K Street NW. If anyone was going to venture off, she'd book flights and rental cars for her team. She remained in the background and was satisfied with this role. Italy was a legitimate reason. But now, she was doing things differently, yet again. The woods did not inspire her. Wearing layers and hiking boots? Not her cup of tea. But the idea of getting away from the nonstop drama of her job, to actually breathe and "sleep in" past 6, was already a gift from the heavens. And then — the real reason — being able to spend time to be with Fitz, get to know him better, decide how this dynamic was going to proceed, without the cameras in her face? That was lucrative and she couldn't pass this up. He wanted to talk to her and have time to themselves.

When she called to inform him of her decision, Olivia knew it was the appropriate choice.

After sending a group text that she wouldn't be in the office, she got on the road around 5am. A tumbler filled to the brim, small bag of three outfits, a suit — that was always a non-negotiable — plus snacks and a couple of frozen meals. The traffic away from Washington was usually lighter than the rows of cars heading towards the Nation's Capital. From the information given by the GPS, it would only take an hour. One hour to ponder all the scenarios, and what ifs.

Her will to resist was minuscule; it took long enough to admit to herself that she and Fitz had something more than a professional relationship. They had become closer. He would call when he needed an opinion or a friendly conversation, outside of whatever they had been discussing. She was relying on him to be the encourager at day's end.

The night before, she couldn't sleep. A mix of fear and excitement prevented her from shutting her eyes, but it was going to be the right call. When Fitz announced the reason for the trip, Olivia knew her presence would give the meetings the sparks it required to succeed. It was decided that the Administration would take this time to push the President's education reform so that his personal drama could skip at least two cycles. Putting the emphasis on what really mattered.

The sun had risen completely by the time she arrived to the camp's gate. The scenery was very plain and unassuming, outside of the guard on duty as she pulled up.

"Good morning, ma'am. May I see your ID?"

Olivia handed the guard her driver's license and her hard pass. The guard firmly nodded.

"Wonderful, if you could drive all the way to the fork and then to the left, you will see the cabins. One of the agents will instruct you further."

She thanked the man and followed the path. Sure enough, there was a row of black SUVs. One agent, who was dressed down in a flannel and jeans, greeted her with a rare smile.

"Good morning, Miss Pope. Your presence is requested here at the Laurel Lodge. Would you like coffee? Breakfast?"

Politely grinning, she accepted, "Just a coffee, with two sugars."

Olivia followed the agent, Daniel, inside the lodge. Watching and reading about former presidents congregating to this place to formulate policies, organize civilities among nations, always fascinated her. It almost felt like going to the principal's office, but for a good reason.

Finally, she recognized a familiar face. Cyrus along with three other men, were circled up, shooting the breeze. While she was sporting more of a formal look, the others were in jeans and casual wear.

"Mr. Beene, Miss Pope is here."

Cyrus clapped, as he usually did, welcoming his friend.

"Liv! Top of the mornin' to ya! I want you to meet…"

Shaking hands with the other guests, Olivia tried to focus — faces, names, or some factoid about each person. But of course, she wasn't paying attention, because she was on the lookout.

Then, he appeared from the confines of his office. Looking quite laid back in a dress shirt and jeans, Fitz confidently strutted in, directly towards her. Bypassing the other guests. Maybe he greeted the others earlier…

"Olivia, it is so good to see you."

She wanted to step forward and hug him, but logic was reminding her of where she was and who was nearby.

"Good morning, Mr. President."

Volts of electricity were running freely through her body. As soon as their eyes met, all bets were off.

There was no way in hell that she was going to return to Washington in the same manner in which she left.

"How was the drive?"

"Uneventful."

"That's good."

She nodded, slowly closing her eyes. "Yes."

"We should get things going," Cyrus interjected, leading the others to their seats.

It was like no one else was in the room. Olivia turned away, pressing her fingers to her lips, slightly embarrassed. They almost got caught. Surely someone caught the flirtatious greeting and glances.

As stated on the news, the group worked on Fitz's education plan. There were considerable holes in the system, across the board. It frustrated him that the country was not doing a better job to support the generation's students.

Three hours of stripping down concepts. Olivia stood across the room, being a fly on the wall, but itching to jump in. Being in the throes of discussion, working on policies. It was a sight to behold.

"What do you think?"

All eyes on her.

Olivia took charge, presenting her fresh take on the proposals.

"This is what your base wants. They are looking for change, they want to succeed. If you're willing to give this to them, they will agree. If you stay consistent, Mr. President, you will be on the right track."

The room was silent. Feeling out of place, Olivia sunk in her chair. But Cyrus exclaimed, "This — this is what we're going to do."

Her eyes met the one whose approval, she wanted to gain. The smile appeared and a quick wink.

"I love it. Great work, everyone. Let's stop and return for dinner. 7 o'clock," Fitz suggested while rising to his feet. Checking his watch, he continued, "Please enjoy all that Camp David has to offer. There are plenty of golf carts to get you all over the campus. I'm sure we will have a photo op tomorrow afternoon, for the media. But other than that, our schedule is quite fluid."

As he shook hands with everyone, Olivia slipped away to make a phone call. It wasn't a big deal to be present for all the formalities. She opted to sit in her car to talk.

"Hey."

"Hi. Do you have a second?"

"Always. Are you alright?"

"Yeah," she said, pulling her seat back, slipping off her heels. "Can I tell you something? I need to tell someone this."

"Sure."

"Stephen," she began, "I'm at Camp David."

The disappointment and intrigue in his knowing sigh was evident. "Is that so?"

"Yes."

"Olivia, why couldn't you have told us? Is it top secret? It couldn't be that bad because they announced it on the news."

"I had to keep it quiet until I got here."

"Okay, Liv."

She hated hiding information from her team, especially Stephen. He was a true confidant, always wanting the best for her, but never backing down from speaking the truth. "I need you to keep me accountable."

"And why is that?"

"Because."

"Because why, Olivia? Are you in trouble?"

Twisting her lips, she spat, "I'm the only non-Cabinet member here." That was true, but was not the reason why she needed emotional backup. "I need you to call me if you don't hear from me by tomorrow afternoon."

"Is there something going on?"

"I'm not in trouble, Stephen. Just trust me. We're working on accomplishing more and keeping the divorce on the back burner. You know how we do for our team building courses."

His response was a chuckle. "Yes, a weekend in St. Michaels always does the body and mind good. Hey, there's no need to be nervous. You were meant for this. The President wouldn't have asked you to come if he didn't think you were needed."

"But this is huge," she groaned. "What is he going to ask me to do next? And no, don't think that I am not leaving you. I gotta go. Tell everyone that I'm fine. I'll be back soon. Just— call me if you don't hear from me."

"Alright."

"Thank you."

"Be safe, Liv."

"I will."

Closing her eyes, Olivia thought again why she was here. To be called upon. To serve the President of the United States. It was a honor and a dream that she hadn't revealed to anyone. Under Cyrus' tutelage at Georgetown Law, Olivia was plotting a timeline for herself. Pass the bar, become a partner at a downtown firm, earn clout, move up the ranks. But when she realized that she needed to do more and be more, she stepped out in faith and confidence. Now, after four years of bringing prominent individuals out of the shadows and into the light, to reach this level of trust and be in this position — the President's inner circle. Already having spoken to the Press Corps, now at Camp David for a summit. Where could this take her? And if she decided to truly pursue this thing that she and Fitzgerald Grant. Would it break her?

She didn't need to worry about this. She needed to stay calm and enjoy the time off. If she was needed at work, they'd call.


Olivia wasn't in the mood to socialize or explore just yet, so she pulled out the work she brought and got to it. It felt great to focus without distractions. Now if she could figure out where she was staying for the night, that would be perfect. But she didn't know who to ask.

"Hey, stranger."

Pausing her response to an email from Abby, Olivia peeked over her shoulder to find Fitz, standing behind the table with a cup of water in his hand.

"Hi."

"You're awfully quiet today. Doing alright? I didn't see you after the meeting."

His smile was captivating.

"Yes, I am," she replied. "Had to call in."

"That's great. Did you eat lunch?"

Olivia returned to the laptop. "Not yet."

"The chefs here are top of the line. They make all sorts of meals. Extremely healthy, absolute crap. Whatever you want, they'll make. I can ask them to bring something down."

Amused by his concern and obvious flirting, Olivia nodded. "Thank you, Fitz. I appreciate it."

She didn't want to appear disinterested, but there had to be a smoother transition.

"Hey, where am I staying? I should probably unpack and stuff."

Fitz reached for a card.

"You are staying here."

"How far is that from here?"

"Just a cart ride away. Would you like me to take you?"

"You have time to memorize cabins," Olivia asked mockingly. "That seems far below your job description."

In an upbeat tone, he asked, "I do what I can. Ready?"

"I can take my car."

Fitz stopped, "Oh. Well, you can follow me if you'd like."

Olivia remembered that he couldn't actually ride with her, unless the agents were accompanying them. There hadn't been any clearance or advanced notice. Even on the private grounds, there was so much to consider when Fitzgerald Grant was involved.

"That's fine."

The ride was short, taking a turn to the right, and past a few trees. It was an adorable cabin, hopefully it would suffice on the inside.

"Here is your key," he offered. As the transfer occurred, their fingers touched and Olivia felt that brisk shot of energy. Every time, it surprised her. She held plenty of hands, been infatuated with the male species since she was in high school, so it shouldn't have been any life-changing experience to brush up against someone else. But with Fitz, it was a different story.

"Thanks. Do you mind waiting? Maybe I can partake of this cuisine you were raving about."

She was satisfied to observe Fitz's body language change as he heard her suggestion. Loosening up, he exclaimed, "Sure thing!"

With a quick nod, Olivia entered her cabin, organizing everything. Then changing into jeans, t-shirt, and cardigan. Officially she could switch into play mode. When she locked the door, Fitz pulled away from leaning on her SUV.

"Oh, wardrobe change!"

She blushed. "Yeah. I was feeling a bit silly being overdressed this morning."

"You looked gorgeous."

Olivia gave a side eye. "Really?"

Biting his lip, which made her weak in the knees, he apologized, "Sorry. I can't help it. Now, Miss Pope, let me help you get into this cart. I will warn you. I drive fast."

"I wouldn't expect anything less."

Without much fanfare, lunch went well and Olivia returned to her cabin to take a nap. Thankfully, she didn't miss the dinner call at 7. Switching outfits once more, she wore a silk blouse and dress slacks. The venue had switched to Aspen, the President's lodge. Incredibly massive in comparison to Laurel, Olivia couldn't imagine not having a good time here, when work was over.

It should have been a surprise to be asked to sit to the right of the President, but Olivia took it all in stride. During dinner, Olivia was actually bored because it seemed like Fitz had to play up his role as Commander in Chief, entertaining the Cabinet members. She anticipated a laid-back, no filter kind of personality that she was hoping would rise out of him. What she did admire was the the tight-knit relationship of President and Chief Of Staff she observed. Fitz and Cyrus shared glances, finishing each other's sentences. Belly laughs filling the dining room. It was extremely cute.

"Would anyone like a nightcap?"

Fitz took it upon himself to be the bartender. One guest asked for Scotch; Cyrus opted for a vodka, while Olivia held a small glass of red. When Fitz came to her side of the table, they smiled at each other as he poured her fill.

"Say when," he whispered.

Almost getting lost in his eyes, she mumbled, "When."

Clearly, it was the sexiest exchange they had since Italy. Something about looking into his eyes made Olivia feel like he was the only person in the room. Even though there were five other people, who could catch them at this vulnerable moment. It didn't seem to matter.

Cyrus came through with the appropriate interruption. "Ah! One of the small perks of working for you, Sir. Being able to 'relax' like this. We should come here more often."

Fitz nodded with a knowing smile towards Olivia. "I want you all to never doubt my appreciation for you. To a successful summit or conference or whatever you want to call this. I hope we are all able to be productive and refreshed."

The whole table lifted their glasses as a response to Fitz's toast.

"Well, I'm going to turn in. This will be the first night in two years that I will be going to sleep before midnight." Cyrus shook his head, as if he couldn't believe what he said. "Good night."

The others followed suit. Olivia waited for them to walk out before turning her focus. That left her alone with him.

"Hi."

"Hi."

Fitz leaned in, holding his glass, "I can't thank you enough for coming up here."

"You're guaranteed some peace and quiet, I believe. Quite an environment to get it."

After sipping on his signature drink, a vintage Scotch, Fitz added, "Yes. I hope you can relax during your stay. Will you be joining us for all three days?"

Olivia shrugged, "Depends on how long I'm needed. Does it usually take three days to agree on this?"

With a smile, Fitz teased, "If your work allows, I would love to have you as long as I can. But everyone has a choice."

Such candor from him; smiling into her class, she whispered, "What was I thinking?"

"What were you thinking, Olivia?"

"I keep doubting myself that I belong here."

Fitz's eyebrows lowered, amazed that she would even utter a statement. "You are a great addition to our team. My team. I highly respect your opinion. I consider you to be my Senior Adviser. If you want, the position is yours. Seriously. And, having you here, being able to hang out with you, is a great perk."

She knew that look.

"You're doing too much. What am I, teacher's pet?"

"No," he argued. "You're Olivia Pope. The most powerful woman in Washington."

"Fitz," she calmly asked, "What is the first thing you're going to do when the papers are signed and everything is finalized?"

Refusing to waver his gaze at her, he declared, "I'm going to sell my ring. No, throw it away. Then ask you out."

"Stop, you're just saying that."

"I kid you not. I've been waiting. I've been patient. Every day, since the moment I asked you to join my team. I wait and watch for you to come to the White House. Olivia, you are truly the light."

Olivia could feel her stomach tightening. Fitz always had a way of speaking his mind so eloquently. Every time they were together, he was sharing more of his heart and soul with her. Maybe she needed to follow.

"It's getting late."

Her mouth opening to stay the one thing she wasn't supposed to say. Of course, when the occasion arose to unravel a layer of truth and express how she truly felt, Olivia would divert.

"I know. But are you tired?"

"No."

"You want to watch a movie? We can chill at the theatre. I'll whip up a fresh bag of popcorn. Just how you like it."

Olivia scoffed, crossing her arms. "Private movie theatre? Popcorn? Are you trying to impress me?"

"Now why would you think that? I won't have you out too late. I'll make sure you get home safely."

He was teasing, flirting, recognizing her, all at the same time. And Olivia loved it. All of it.

They sat on the couch, watching an old comedy. Nothing too serious. Olivia didn't want to put pressure on herself or Fitz, so sitting on the other side of the couch was reasonable. She knew that killed his mood, but in order for this to work, she had to use common sense.


Everything about the campus was endearing. There was so much land. A tennis court, swimming pool. A bowling alley inside of Fitz's cabin. A shooting range. Whatever guests wanted to do, they could it. No wonder why he liked to escape to Camp David. It was a peaceful getaway.

Olivia didn't have much trouble falling asleep. With the massive glass of wine she took, plus all the activities of the day, it was easy to wind down. But honestly, it was most likely knowing that Fitz wasn't far away that comforted her.

He called her first thing in the morning, so obviously, she had to answer.

"Hi."

"Is this a wake up?"

"Sort of," he quipped. "I was wondering, did you happen to bring your running gear?"

Not even finished with her coffee, Olivia walked over to the closet, where most of her clothes were hanging. "Actually, I did."

"Good, I was getting ready to head out and I thought you'd enjoy the trail. Wanna join me?"

"What time?"

"Thirty minutes."

"Make in twenty."

Hearing him incredulously ask, "You'll be ready by then?" Being such a douche, whether he knew it or not, fired her up more. He had to learn.

Pulling out her clothes, she countered, "I've gotten out of the door, meeting clients in the middle of the night faster, Grant. Don't test me."

"Ooh...it's on."

The click in her ear let her know that Fitz was a competitive guy and they were going to have a good time.

They met a half mile away from Olivia's cabin. Rocking her usual T-shirt and black athletic pants, with a low ponytail, Olivia was holding on to her phone, as Fitz and his agents drove in.

"Good morning," he strutted to her. Leaning in as if he had the audacity to kiss her, Olivia took a step back. Cocking her head slightly to silently let him know, no.

"Hello."

"Fine day to get a run in, don't you think?"

Olivia gave a little nod, while stretching her hamstrings. "Sure. Are you ready to get your ass kicked, if the opportunity arises?"

"Don't worry, I'll be fine."

The two agents stood nearby stoically, gradually revealing a smirk or two Olivia's way.

"Okay."

Olivia and Fitz jogged in silence for the first ten minutes; footsteps pacing the ground, she was careful to not speed up. Running was her personal hallelujah and prayers to God. Giving herself time to tune everything and everyone out. Even the man beside her, or rather a tad behind.

Stopping at a specific point where one could see a beautiful valley.

"It's gorgeous."

Words denied her as Fitz was standing so close behind her. It was like he knew that she would melt at a moment's notice.

"I wanted you to see this. I love this spot. It's so beautiful."

"Please," she whispered, very aware that he could segue into a kiss or some other romantic gesture. "we cannot make a scene. Your agents are right here."

Fitz relented, "Okay."

Olivia turned on her heel, continuing to run. She didn't realize that he was not too far behind. But she had to lighten up the mood; he was trying incredibly hard. "I didn't think you were a runner."

"I'm not," he answered, breathing deeply. "But I have to exercise. Plus, you said you run so I had to find a way to do something with you."

Olivia dabbed her sleeve against her forehead. "Good move, Mr. President."

"Do you like it here?"

"To be honest, I didn't think I would. But, I do."

Olivia reached for her phone. A text from Stephen.

Everything okay?

Smirking at the message, she wanted to be as truthful as possible.

I'm staying until tomorrow afternoon. We're making progress.

"Ready to get back?"

Olivia rushed to ht send, and replied, "Sure."

Cooling down, feeling the mountain air on their faces, they turned around. Their arms brushing against each other, being so close. Walking in tandem, which made Olivia giggle. How could they be moving in sync like this? Without warning, his fingers casually weaved through the spaces of her hand. She knew it was coming, she could feel his presence. Only a second was needed to decide whether to pull away, or allow the magnetism to run its course.

She closed the distance, relieved of this next step she took. They were walking down the trail, holding hands. No loud sounds of condemnation or sirens blaring. Everything was okay.

Olivia shifted her eyes to see what Fitz was doing; he was looking straight ahead, but his smile was crooked. He knew what he did.

"You like that?"

"Mmhmm," she answered. "You?"

Swooning, he replied, "I love it."


Receiving word from Cyrus that a photographer would stop by to shoot, Olivia inwardly groaned. Outside of dodging Fitz's blatant clues and gestures, she didn't want to be part of the photo op. But being a team player, she had to participate. The plan was to keep it simple, a sleeveless black jumpsuit with neutral makeup. Fitz had finished taking pictures with Cyrus and the other Cabinet members, when he met up with her.

"Hey. This won't take long."

"Fine," she mumbled.

Vince, the photographer, instructed, "Thank you, Mr. President. If you and..."

Fitz answered for Olivia, "Miss Pope."

"Great, if you and Miss Pope could walk towards me, that would be fantastic."

A few shots later, with the intent to act like they were discussing some elaborate PR move, the photographer stopped, then shook hands with Fitz.

"You guys look great. Thanks!"

"Thank you, Vince," Fitz glanced at a semi-annoyed Olivia. "See? That wasn't too bad."

Olivia rolled her eyes. "I don't like being a show pony."

"Welcome to my world, Liv," Fitz snickered. "Guess what?"

Stopping to look at him, Olivia waited for his answer.

"I'm finally here with you. Do you know how happy I am right now?"

She could tell that he was beyond thrilled. Seeing him happy was now what she wanted. A complete 180 from their initial meeting at the Oval Office. Fitz was showing off his playful side, being at ease, not tensing up the whole time.

"I can tell. I am too," she said quietly. The smile on her face was a sign to Fitz that she was appreciating all he was doing for her. The enthusiasm rubbed off on Olivia. In an act of spontaneity, she invited him to the cabin.

A few hours later, she heard him knock. A simple meal of chicken and vegetables was simmering. Letting down her hair, now in bouncy curls, she wanted to give a softer look for him. Seeing his beautiful face, Olivia beamed.

"I come bearing gifts."

Fitz was holding a box - two wine glasses, with a Shiraz. A small bouquet of roses.

Deeply sighing, Olivia reprimanded, "This is too much!"

Hearing him shout, "Candles?"

"I pulled a few strings," she remarked, fluttering her eyelashes. "I went the general store a few miles down the road. Wanted to set the mood."

Fitz took off his jacket. "I like."

Sitting by the fire that Fitz started, they ate dinner. Olivia marveled at how relaxed he was, not even concerned with anyone else who was on campus.

Once their meal was gone, Olivia invited him to sit with her on the couch. They chatted about life away from downtown and the pressures of being great.

"What have you heard about me?"

Olivia shook her head, knowing full well that Fitz wanted her to be honest. "The streets talk; you're a smooth talker. One of the best political charmers. Ladies adore you. Men probably want to be you. Cocky motherfucker. That's par for the course."

"The same can be said about you, Miss Pope."

"Oh," she gasped, dramatically pressing her hand on her chest, "How are we similar?"

Fitz slowly nodded, "Cocky motherfucker. I've read that you're a strong, independent, take-no-bullshit type of woman."

"Is that why you think of me?"

"You're phenomenal. Always ready to do whatever it takes to get the job done. You're kind, patient with me, and you talk to me like I'm a nobody. You don't seem in awe of me because of what I do."

Olivia jabbed, "You're right. I respect you for your position but I'm going to talk to you because you're a person."

Fitz opened his arm to let Olivia snuggle.

"I don't bite, you know."

"Oh, I know," she answered. Taking a moment to consider, she closed the gap between them. Cozying up against him, she relished the feeling. He was so warm. Then her eyes moved toward his left hand. Gasping, "You're not wearing your ring."

"I'm not."

His voice was low and somewhat raspy.

"When did that happen?"

"You didn't notice?"

"No," she declared.

"Last week."

"I don't know why I didn't..."

"Because you've been too busy to keep your distance from me. I'm not going to hurt you. Or do anything that goes against your beliefs."

"I don't want anything to get ruined before we even get started."

Fitz held her hand. "Liv, we won't."

"I think about you a lot."

She admitted something she held so dear.

"Really?"

"Yeah, that's why I'm here. I just want...you."

"Oh my God. I thought I was the only one."

"You're not."

Olivia stood to get some more wine. She was nervous, she was excited. Having no clue what would happen next. As if he was reading her mind, Fitz was already next to her, hand over hers, lowering the wine glass.

"What?"

His eyes were dark and inviting. Olivia could sense that something was up.

Fitz's hands finding space on her sides, holding on, but not leaving her face.

She could read his mind and she knew he could read hers.

Come and kiss me.

Slowly, Olivia lifted her chin while Fitz lowered his head. Their breathing synchronized. The ache in her belly increased as she waited.

Their lips touched. So soft.

Sighing, Olivia put more pressure against his mouth, which led him to follow her lead.

Her hands reached up to massage his scalp, breaking away from what she knew was appropriate. She thought she was floating on air, when Fitz slightly pulled away. Letting out a disappointing groan, Olivia questioned his actions.

"What?"

Fitz's lip curled in victory, making sure she was in agreement with what they just did. As she laughed, she felt weightless as he hoisted her onto the dresser. Her shoes slipped off as her legs bent around his torso and hips, and heels digging into his ass. The tension was making her toes curl. When his hands cradled her face, guiding her back to him, the sigh in her deepened. Her brain wasn't able to process all of this. All of the resisting for weeks and now finally being able to let go. To share with him, without guilt. Her mouth opened to let him in. The kiss that she had been dreaming about, lusting over, and craving since Italy. Almost collapsing from being deprived. She needed more. His lips tasting like candy. Pulling on that bottom lip, nipping and sucking tenderly like there were juices inside. Refreshing. She didn't want to let go. It was a sin to waste the delectable moans coming from Fitz's mouth. He was a man deprived of any kind of good loving and intimacy.

What felt like an eternity, was only one minute.

Somehow, they pulled away at the same time. Catching their breath, there was a haziness in the room. Time had stopped, resumed, only to pause once more.

"Are we okay? Did we go too far?"

Olivia searched his face — reddened from all the action. "Yes. But I need you to go."

Fitz's pupils grew, surprised by her prompt command.

"I mean, I don't want you to leave," she fumbled, snapping her eyes shut, frazzled by everything. "But… someone could see us."

Letting out an amused chuckle, he pointed, "Your windows are closed. No one is allowed to be on the property without my permission." Their foreheads touched. "I won't let you get in trouble. You're the reason why I'm not losing my mind."

"Is that so?"

"Mmhmm."

Her eyes shifting from his eyes, to his lips, zoning in on his hungry mouth.

"Kiss me again."

This time around, Fitz wasn't timid. His hands cupping her face. Olivia's arms had a life of their own, wrapping around his neck, wanting to get as close to him as possible. They made their way to Olivia's bed, becoming closer. How they could feel so good, without taking off an ounce of clothing, was beyond her comprehension.

The knock on the door startled Olivia as she let out a shriek. Fitz laughed, stroking her cheek.

"You're doing fine, beautiful. My Livvie."

Her heart shattered as he rose.

"It's just my guys. Hold on a sec."

Fitz smoothed his hair, before opening the door. Then, within a few seconds, he returned. Olivia was now sitting up.

"Do you have to go?"

"Yes, but I don't want to."

"I think you should go."

Olivia started to process what was going on. Was she truly going to let Fitz spend the night? They were already pushing the envelope, physically. She was stubborn but her desires would not be as strong. Was he going to do, sleep on the couch? Would they possibly cuddle, then just sleep on separate sides of the bed? Was she in middle school?

"You're right. Thank you, Miss Voice of Reason."

"I doubt it, because I wanted you to stay. But... it's too tricky right now."

They both gave each other sad smiles, aware of everything around them. As Olivia blew out the candles.

"Good night."

Rising on her toes, Olivia kissed Fitz. Almost as good as the first time.

"Text me when you get to your place."

Giving her hand a heartfelt squeeze, he said, "Of course."

Inhaling and exhaling slowly, Olivia slowly returned to her bed, plopping down on the mattress. Resisting temptation was so fucking hard.

She kissed him.

There was no turning back.

Waiting for his text so she could get to sleep, Olivia prepared for bed. Taking a long shower, clearing her thoughts, but upset that she had to wash off his scent. He smelled divine; anyone else would used Armani cologne would be

She came back to two text messages.

I'm back.

You must be asleep. Good night, Olivia Pope. Tonight was amazing. Thank you for letting me kiss you. Thank you for trusting me.


When Olivia woke up, she was drenched in sweat. Observing her surroundings, she also realized that she wet underneath her pajamas. The dream she had was quite eventful. Already fantasizing about what his kiss and touch would lead to once he was free from his public marriage. A little embarrassed, but very thankful no one was around, she rolled over, sighing. Officially, he was still unavailable. To most people, it wouldn't matter, but she still had to think about her reputation. That hurt, but she knew the consequences. Either quit cold turkey, or just toe the line, intelligently waiting it out. Because he said he would. Would she be patient as well?

On the agenda, there was a 10am conference. Even thought she wasn't needed to attend the meeting the day before, she thought she should still participate. There had to be proof that this summit had happened. As Olivia rolled up to Laurel, she was surprised to see that the lot where the other carts would be, was empty.

"Good morning."

"Good morning, Daniel," she greeted Fitz's agent. "Where is everyone? Did I read the agenda wrong?"

Daniel politely answered, "You can go inside, if you like."

"Where is everyone else?"

"They left."

"What?"

Fitz entered her peripheral, with a huge smile on his face. Pulling her in, sweetly kissing her forehead, then her lips. "Everyone left. It's just you and me. Remember that's why I invited you here."

"Wait, was the meeting..."

"We did great, but I had to cover up my reason why I wanted you here."

Becoming more comfortable with body language, Olivia tapped his arm, faking her disapproval. "You sly fox. You're the worst."

Fitz twisted his lips, before looking down at her. "Well... I think I'm allowed to mix work and pleasure."

"Stoppp!" Olivia playfully whined. "Do you think anyone realized what's going on? Did they see us?"

"No. Stop worrying."

"Your agents won't rat me out?"

Her conscience was tugging, weighing her down.

"Olivia Pope."

"What?"

Fitz made sure that she focused only on him. "What you may not seem to recognize, that even though I am under rules like everyone else. I do get some freedoms. As much as I want to leave, I am able to still have fun. I have told my guys to stand down when I want private time, and usually, they do. Now let's make the most of today before we both have to go back to DC."

The two enjoyed a peaceful breakfast, then disappeared into one of the spare rooms. Fitz thought it would be a good idea to get some practice in before departing in a few hours. Olivia did her best to stay as quiet as possible, because she knew how loud she would get whenever Fitz touched her. Still, being respectful, they didn't go beyond kissing and some light petting.

Olivia went to go back before returning to Aspen, where she wanted to ask Fitz something.

"Is what we're doing, similar to how you were with Amanda?"

She knew it was a risky question — Fitz's lazy smile was gone in a second, reminding her of their first meeting - but what else did she have to lose? If she was going to even contemplate anything more than a friendship, she needed truthful answers.

"You sure don't pull punches."

"I need you to tell me."

"She did not mean anything. I was lonely. Pathetic. I used my power and title get the best of me."

Olivia didn't quickly believe him and then forget everything; that wasn't her nature. She has to question all facets. "What about now? Are you lonely? What is it that you see in me that's different than Amanda or Mellie or anyone else?"

"I care about you, Liv. I wouldn't be doing any of this if I wasn't invested in you."

"Fitz."

"I want you. You know that. I'll keep reminding you until you believe me."

Olivia could feel tears brimming. Did the President of the United States telling her that he truly cared about her?

"Sir, we are leaving in five minutes."

"Thank you, Hal," he acknowledged. "I'm so glad you came."

Olivia couldn't help but give him a hug. "Me too."

She could hear him breathe slower, not willing to quickly move on from this. She didn't want to either. His lips tickling her neck as he asked, "See you soon?"

"Let's wait a few days," she replied, with a tinge of sadness in her voice. "I don't want anything to distract you when you return."

He nodded, but she knew he wasn't on board with the idea. "That's fine. But I know when we all return, Mellie's camp will be doing something off the wall."

"That's different. That's work."

Then, for whatever reason, they stopped talking. Olivia pursed her lips, knowing that they wouldn't be as free to kiss or hold hands, having been spoiled for the last 36 hours. Fitz silently motioned for the agents to turn away, and they did.

The gasp lodged in her throat as she accepted his kiss. Tasting his lips, scraping her teeth against the pink flesh. Her mind immediately taking her back to night before in the cabin, where they finally crossed the line of casual and formal. The moment they both had been waiting for, but never being able to express in words until now.

A curt throat clearing, separated them. Hal was trying to keep his serious poise, but it was obvious that he was giving his boss a little leeway.

Olivia tucked the hair out of her face, while Fitz kissed her forehead. He was so smug, just confident, that he was able to do what he wanted.

"Bye, Livvie."

Hearing him call her Livvie, made everything okay. Still mesmerized, she watched him wave, then enter the SUV, disappearing behind the dark windows. The motorcade slowly drove down the hill to the helipad as she crossed her arms, holding herself together. Before she got into her car, ready to head back to real life, she gave herself a minute to take a mental photograph.

This was now their place. Their first kiss was here. Camp David now had a new meaning. She wanted to return as soon as possible, without any official business to accompany their rendezvous.

But a new question arose: How in the fuck would she be able to work to her fullest potential on this case when Fitzgerald Grant was officially stuck in her brain?

As much as she wanted to shout from the mountaintops, Olivia knew she had to keep this secret a little while longer.


Thanks for reading! xo