Olivia thought she was dreaming at first until she looked at Fitz's face, and realized what he said was no dream. It was real.

Would she ever catch a break?

She couldn't do this. She had to get out of here.

"I can't do this. I can't do this. I need to go."

Olivia grabbed her purse and she ran out of the room.

Tom looked at the President, "Do you trust me?"

Fitz looked at him like he was crazy at first but then nodded, "Let me handle this."

Fitz nodded

Tom had radioed not to let Olivia leave without him. He made it down to the car. He told the agent he would handle it.

He got in car and turned to look at Olivia, "I get it. You're scared and tired and you have every right to be. I'm not going to allow you to let you your parents ruin your happiness. I'll take you to your home, but that is it."

Olivia finally looked at him and nodded.

They made it to the house. Olivia went to the room. She got out of her clothes as she made her way to the bed.

She didn't move for 24 hours. Tom kept Fitz up to date. Tom called Fitz and told him to send Lisa over which he did.

Lisa walked in the room. It was dark. Olivia was under the covers. She could barely see her. Lisa pulled the covers back and found Olivia in her bra and panties. She had not showered, done her hair, nothing.

Lisa helped her up and forced her to shower. She asked Tom to order them some Chinese. By the time Olivia came out the bathroom the food had arrived.

Lisa did her hair and forced her to eat. Olivia tried to crawl back in the bed but Lisa wouldn't allow her.

"The best friend I know is not a selfish bitch. She wouldn't desert her family."

"Excuse me."

"You heard me. You are doing exactly what Maya expects you to. You are giving that evil monster power."

"I'm not Lisa. I'm just tired. I want my family, but I just can't. They always find a way to win. I'm not as strong as you think I am."

"Bullshit."

"Your boyfriend is over at the White House about to kill himself between trying to work, lie to the kids about the emergency that took you away without notice, and trying to figure out if you are going to leave him. Maya is sitting in a cell laughing it up. You & I both know she did this to rattle you. I bet she doesn't even know Rowan is dead. She is trying to one up him by using you. The old Olivia would let her win."

Olivia broke down and sobbed in Lisa arms. She let it all out. She cried and cried until she fell asleep.

While she was asleep she placed a call.

Olivia woke up a couple of hours later. The last thing she remembered was crying on Lisa's lap. She looked up and she was in the arms of Fitz who had dozed off. She could tell he had not slept since she left. The bags under his eyes were telling.

He felt her move and opened his eyes. When he looked into her eyes and saw the pain she was in tears began to fall.

She wiped his eyes, "Stop why are you crying?"

"Because I can't fix this for you. I feel like a failure. I just want to protect you."

"I want to do the same. I'm so sorry for being selfish. I just..."

"Stop baby. I'm not going anywhere. Not anymore. You can push, but I'm not going away."

"I don't want you too. I struggle enough with my dad being responsible for Jerry's death. All I could think about was if she got in, and did something to you or the children I wouldn't be able to move on. Fitz, she can't stay. I can't live with that fear. I will smother the children."

"We know."

Olivia looked at him confused, "What do you mean?"

Tom, John, and Lisa stepped in the room.

Fitz said, " Olivia met Tom's younger brother John who is now your head agent."

Olivia nodded, "Hi John."

"Ms. Sorry Olivia."

They all smiled.

Lisa said, "Liv you may be mad at me, but I won't take back what I've done. When I saw how happy you were I knew that the one person who could ruin it would be your mother. My partner at the office brother is a private investigator. I hired him to track Maya down. She was in Africa at first. Where she was didn't have access to televisions and computers. Finally after a couple of months she made her way to Cape Town. My investigator followed her, and one day she went to a bar. The investigator sat next to her and made sure she saw the two of you on his IPad. She asked him about the two of you, and he brought her up to speed. Needless to say she cozies up the businessman. They had several dates where she picked his brain. The seed was set. It was on a matter of time before she would come back. I told Tom. I wanted you to have plausible deniability when she was caught. Tom & John had some contacts with Interpol where Maya is wanted in several countries for multiple charges including murder and terroristic threats. The agents have been on high alert. I'm sorry that I caused you some pain, but I'm not sorry we got that bitch. I wasn't going to let her ruin you ever again."

Fitz had heard the story. He knew that Tom still felt guilty, and he was trying to make amends. This was the ultimate gift.

Olivia looked at everyone. She went over to Lisa who was nervous. She didn't regret her decision, but she didn't want to lose her best friend.

Olivia embraced her and both of them began to cry. Olivia finally pulled back, "I'm impressed. You've been hanging around me too long."

Everyone laughed

"Nah. I learned from the best."

"Thank you. I love you and despite the pain it was worth it. Thank you for snapping me out of my haze."

"You have done it for me plenty of times in the past."

Olivia went over to Tom. She grabbed his hands, "I'll only accept all of the hard work and effort that you have done for me under one condition."

"What's that?"

"That you finally forgive yourself and move on. You'll take me to see my mother one last time, and we close this book once and for all. You have made your amends."

Tom looked at Fitz, "I agree with her Tom. Jerry is at peace. We can feel it, and you need to be. Lauren deserves all of you."

Tom nodded, "Deal"

Olivia walked over to John, "It is a pleasure to meet you. I hope you are like your brother."

He nodded, "For the most part I am."

"Good then you will fit right in."

She looked at Fitz, "I need to call and talk to the kids and hear their voice, and then we need to head over there. I need to face her. Lisa went on a limb for us, and I need to step up for us. I've been a selfish bitch long enough."

Fitz winced. So did Lisa.

Lisa tried to say something.

Olivia shook her head, "No Lisa. I know what you said but the truth is my fear of my parents overrode the love I have for my family. I know that makes me human. I am scared out of my mind to face her, but I am even more scared of the prospect of being without my family. This is a no brainer."

Fitz nodded, "I'll make the call."

Olivia turned her phone on and called Karen who answered the phone and sounded frantic, "Mom, is that you?"

"Yes honey. How are you?"

"Worried about you. Something bad happened didn't it. Are you coming back? Please come back. We can fix it."

"Honey, it is being fixed. My mom is here."

"Oh God. Did she hurt you?"

"Physically no. Aunt Lisa, your dad, and Tom are helping to make sure that she can never come near us again. I felt like I had to leave to protect you, and I'm sorry. I just can't handle something happening to you guys."

Karen relaxed for the first time in hours, "I understand mom. I know that you haven't told me everything about your parents to protect me, but when you left and dad was drinking I heard him say your dad put the hit out on Jerry as revenge for being with you. It's true isn't it."

Olivia sank to the floor. She had no choice but to own it, "Yes. I'm sorry."

"I know, but mom like you tell me all the time I'm not my mother. You are not your parents. Don't apologize for their actions. That is what you tell me when I try to apologize when my mother would call you a whore and slut or do things to try and hurt you.. I know that you are doing this because you want to protect us, but mom do it for you too. We miss you so come home soon. Teddy is already asleep. Marta kept him going all day to keep him busy."

"I love you more sweetie. We will be home after I see her."

"Okay mom"

An hour later they walked into the room where Maya was being held. She was in cell, and there was a small table and two chairs for Fitz &Olivia.

Olivia insisted Fitz come in the room with her. Not only for support but to show her mom she wasn't backing down again.

Maya smiled when she saw her, "So you finally were upgraded to number one? How long do you think it will last?"

"Forever"

"I see you are still delusional. Did you come here to get more answers? How to top your dad? To find out why we didn't love you enough? Get over it Olivia. Life is not some fairy tail. You're a grown ass woman."

Olivia look at Fitz and smiled. Fitz wasn't sure what to make of it.

Olivia walked over to her mother.

"What is it Olivia? Is this where you asked me to tell you how wrong we were? How we have caused you nothing, but pain. How you were nothing more than a chess piece."

Olivia couldn't tell you when she had heard enough, but she reached between the bars and grabbed Maya by the neck.

Fitz looked on in shock, but he didn't move and neither did Tom.

Finally she let her go.

Maya was trying to catch her breath as she looked at her daughter like she lost her mind.

"You are a crazy bitch."

"Takes one to know one mom. I didn't come here to ask you for anything. I came to tell you that I finished the game that you and dad have played with my life. Thanks to my friends who made sure you knew about the changes in my life. That businessman who you wined and dined with was a private investigator. His job was to make sure you knew I was number one. Oh by the way I was always number one bitch. I'm in my rightful place. I don't need to ask about dad. He had an untimely death in jail, and his remains are in the garbage. I only came to tell you one thing mommy dearest."

"And what would that be?"

"Checkmate, I win. Good luck I hear that Russia and Thailand are fighting over who has first dibs. Petak Prison or Bang Kwang Prison are two of the worst in the world. I wish you a lot of luck.?"

"What are you talking about Olivia Carolyn?"

"You see mom I learned a very valuable lesson when I was trying to take dad down. It doesn't have to be hard and complicated. The ground work was laid for me, and I'm coming to say good-bye to you like I did him. The night he was locked up I decided to fight for Fitz. Tonight as I see you locked up I realize my daughter was right. I tell her all the time she is not her mother. I'm not you. I'm better than you as a person, career wise, girlfriend and future wife because I'm marrying this man, and above all a hell of a better mom. I slipped for a moment but I'm human. My own parents tore me down, but I've learned how to get up."

"You know I'm smarter than you. The last time you guys tried to send me out the country everyone ended up dead."

Fitz smiled, "You are right Maya. That's why you are being held under the Patriot Act. Those interrogations can be brutal. Wear a person down. We can hold you indefinitely. I've heard the Russians are willing to get you themselves. I've seen their restraints. I wouldn't treat my dog that way, but what can I say. I don't run that country. Their rules. Don't worry about Olivia. She will be fine. One day very soon she will be First Lady of the United States. She is already the legal mother of my two children, but we are trying for more. I assure you she is very very happy. Good-bye Maya."

The couple walked out. Maya was screaming for Olivia. As far as she was concerned that was another chapter closed.

They made it made to the White House. Karen & Jonah were up working on an assignment when they heard them come in.

Karen ran into Olivia's arm. Olivia held her for a long time. Karen didn't mind at all. She could tell her mom was tired.

She pulled back and looked at her mom, "I love you."

"Love you more."

The next six weeks were busy for the family. Olivia made some appearances, helped the female Senators and Fitz work on some bills that would bring them a couple steps closer to equal rights for women, and preparing for their trip to Paris.

They had decided they wouldn't announce their trip. They knew the French government would. Olivia didn't want the public to feel like she was suffocating them. By the French announcing the trip she looked humble. It would also spark interest in her initiative.

Karen & Jonah completed the six-week program. Both passed their classes with all A's. Fitz flew Enrique in as a surprise to Jonah and they celebrated.

Jonah looked at his dad, "Dad, I love the college. The campus, the staff, and the students are great. I really see why Karen wants to attend. I won't lie Karen is one of the factors that I now want to attend the college, but I loved the challenge. I know if I get in I can do it. I think I can get enough scholarships to cover everything. One of the Professors stated she would write me a letter of recommendation."

Enrique put his fork down, "Do you have a back-up plan?"

"Yes sir. I'll still apply to Stanford, UCLA, and USC in addition to G.W. Karen said that if I wanted something then I needed to learn how to talk to you. I know this was not the original plan."

"It wasn't son, but it's fine. Karen has helped you realize you can reach for the moon. All you have to do is try, and I respect you coming to me and being honest. If you can get in and I believe you can we will figure out the money part."

Fitz nodded, "Jonah, all I want you to do is head back to Vermont and put you head down and work hard. Keep your grades up. Volunteer. Show them who you are. Whatever you don't get in scholarships we will take care of."

Olivia nodded and agreed.

Enrique nodded. He turned to Olivia, "Only if you let me work on your orchids and put in a greenhouse for you."

Olivia smiled, "Deal."

It was a little bittersweet to see his family head back to Vermont in August, but the kids would be starting school soon. Olivia was taking one class this term.

The night before they were set to leave Fitz worked for a few hours in the morning. He spend the rest of the day with the family.

The couple put Teddy to bed together that night.

They barely made it in their room before they were on each other. Fitz took her hard and fast against the wall. She loved every second of it.

He then picked her up and took her to their bed where he spent the next couple of hours making love to her.

The couple last two sessions were in the shower before they got clean. They were now laying in bed talking.

Olivia looked at Fitz, "I'm going to miss you."

"Me too but it we will be together again before you know it. I just can't wait for us to take our first international trip together. You don't know how many times I have had that dream."

"Oh, I know. You just want to me to join the mile high club with you."

He laughs, "Not going to lie. I would love that, but it is something about being on the world's stage with you by my side. Not just in the U.S. but the world will get to see how beautiful and smart you are soon, and I get to stand beside you as it happens."

She smiled, "I have to admit I love standing beside you now. I'm still shocked that my initiative is picking up steam so quickly, but I'm grateful because little girls will benefit from the exposure."

"Baby, you are smart. People have always known that. I know you are more comfortable behind the scenes, but I'm glad that you get to take credit for all the brilliant plans you have come up with over the years."

"I love you Fitzgerald Thomas Grant III. You have made me better in every way possible."

"I love you more Olivia Carolyn Pope. I am the man I am today because of you."

Fitz was right. Since returning back to Vermont time had flown for everyone. Olivia & the kids flew in to D.C. for the night, and the next afternoon they all left for Paris. Everyone was excited for various reasons.

The world was watching. They wanted to see what Olivia & Karen were wearing. Interest heightened when they learned the two would be attending some of the shows that were part of fashion week.

Originally Olivia had planned to go to four shows, but once they went public she received personal calls from Vera Wang and Monique Lhuillier to come to their shows to see their new bridal collections. Olivia accepted.

Olivia would never forget the look of joy she saw on Fitz's face when she told him. She could tell that it meant a lot to him, and it showed him she was all in.

The media went wild when they found out.

They arrived in Paris early the next morning. Olivia stepped out wearing a White Michael Kors Belted Boat neck Sheath dress that she paired with her Jimmy Choo Patent Leather sling pumps.

Karen complimented her mom's out with her White ABS Mesh-Contrast Fit & Flare Dress. She had on a pair of Manolo Blahnik Ankle Wrap Leather Sandals.

Olivia set the tone. She wasn't Mellie. Mellie was a fashionable woman, but her clothing screamed wealth and privilege. Yes Olivia wore a Michael Kors dress, but it was one of his cheaper dresses. More importantly the dress was simple and could easily be found at a fraction of the cost which is what Olivia wanted. The same with Karen's dress.

The family made it to their house. Lisa had already arrived via Fitz's private jet. She was happy to see them. The kids called her Aunt Lisa all the time now. Fitz would introduce Lisa as his future sister-in-law.

Olivia loved John being part of her detail. He got along well with Huck, and Fitz didn't worry about their safety as much.

When Olivia found out he was single, and he liked Lisa he told him to go for it. He had finally called her recently, and they were taking it slow. They both had hectic jobs but they liked each other.

The trip was kind of split up in two. The first three days Olivia would be attending some events with the First Lady of France. The First Lady asked if Karen would be with her. Olivia left it up to Karen who decided she wanted to be with Olivia. Their afternoons and evenings would be at the fashion shows and spending time together.

In addition to the shows to see the new wedding collections they would also be front row to see the collections of Miu Miu, Prada, Alexander McQueen, Louis Vuitton, and Prada.

Fitz & Teddy would be together for the most part for the first three days. Any meetings that he could not attend Marta would watch him, but other than that he wanted to show the world he was a functional parent and President.

The trip was a success thus far. Everyone loved seeing Fitz as President and dad. It was clear Teddy enjoyed being with his dad. Olivia had purchased him some suits and nice pants and shirts to wear.

The media commented how well-behaved and polite Teddy was. Olivia was just as impressive. When she responded to the questions asked during a meeting in French and English she gained brownie points around the world.

The day had arrived. Olivia was about to introduce a new initiative called "Girls Can Do It Too". Olivia didn't want to wear anything flashy so she settled on a Grain Shadow Pink Diane von Furstenberg Julian Wrap Dress that retails for $398.00, but most stores are selling it for under a $100.00. She was delivering her speech at Think Global School . The school had headquarters in New York. The school has a challenging academic program, and they supported Olivia. They wanted to find a way to market their program for girls so this was perfect.

Olivia delivered her speech with her family behind her. The President and First Lady of France were there as well. In her speech she provided some facts that some people were intrigued to hear.

Olivia had done some research and found that more than 62 million girls around the world are not in school. This statistic helped her to understand why young ladies are more vulnerable to HIV/AIDS, early and forced marriages, and domestic violence.

Olivia wanted that to change so she talked to Fitz, and he supported her decision to launch this initiative. The hope is that young girls would complete their education, and strive to want more.

A World Bank study found that every year of secondary school education is correlated with an 18 percent increase in a girl's future earning power.

The initiative will include the private and public sector. Projects will be world-wide. France is the first country to step on board, but she hoped that after today others would join the cause. She wanted young women around the world to know that they mattered. There would be a great deal focused on their education, but Olivia planned to address heath, mental issues, and self-esteem.

The President & First Lady of France stepped up after Olivia to announce not only their support, but funds would be allocated for the initiative. They pressed other world leaders to join the cause.

Fitz , Olivia, and the kids spent time touring the school as well as two others that the President had selected. Some were surprised at how hands on the family was. Karen read to a group of young girls. Teddy had helped pass out materials. Fitz & Olivia were taking the time to talk to the children.

They took lots of pictures. They laughed and talked with the children. Nothing about the visits felt formal, and that is how they wanted it.

Back over in the U.S. the Initiative was receiving a lot of support. The spokesperson for the school that was headquartered in New York spoke with CNN. They confirmed that Olivia had been working on the plan for some time. She was very hands on, and what the world was witnessing is who they had come to know.

The next night Fitz & Olivia attended a State Dinner in their honor. Olivia wowed everyone when she stepped out of the limo in a Multi-White Alexander McQueen Embellished Strapless Silk Gown.

The couple was dancing. They were in their own world. Fitz smiled at her, "Well First Girlfriend I must say you are taking the world by storm. You are making me look very good."

Olivia laughed, "I think we compliment each other well. This has been a dream trip. From the shows, to spending time with Karen, Lisa being here, and us being seen together as a family. It all feels really good."

"Speaking of shows. Did you enjoy Vera and Monique?"

"I did and when the time comes I told them I couldn't choose one over the other. I will have no choice but wear two gowns on my wedding day. One from each of them."

"I love that idea. Sophisticated and elegant for the ceremony and sexy and fun for the reception."

"You read my mind."

"Well tomorrow night it is you and me. No kids, no press, no meeting. Just us before we head back home."

"I can't wait."

"Good. Wear a nice cocktail dress. It is going to be a romantic evening for two."

"Even more excited."

The next evening Olivia was picked up in a 1951 Luxury Bently MK VI. Karen picked a Pink and Black Alexander McQueen Paneled Floral Dress for her to wear. She had to admit she looked great.

Her hair was straight with some curls on the end, and she wore light make-up. It had been a whirlwind week, and she was glad that it went so well.

She sat in the car and looked out the window. Paris was such a beautiful city. She could see why so many people came here to get engaged, married, vacation as a couple, and enjoy themselves. There was no shortage of romantic things to do here.

Olivia didn't realize it but they had crossed Paris and made it to the Seine Bank. They stopped at the dock where a private yacht was sitting. It wasn't a flashy yacht. The teak deck, mahogany woodwork, and cozy atmosphere screamed romance. It got better when Fitz walked up to her.

She had never dated or saw a man who wore a suit like he did. It never failed to make her moist. She closed her eyes for a moment to composure herself.

They shared a quick kiss. Fitz took her around to the outside of the deck so they could enjoy the sunset. There were appetizers and champagne for the couple.

Fitz kissed her, "You like?"

"I do especially because I'm here with you."

"Good, because I have a whole evening planned."

"I can't wait."

The couple enjoyed the sunset as the yacht left the port. Once the sun had set they were taking to the dining room. It was beyond romantic and it almost brought Olivia to tears.

The table was set for two. Candles and roses covered the table. Fitz helped her to her seat before he sat down.

For dinner the couple dined on a slice of duck foie gras with flower of salt from Guérande, a filet of cod to the black tapenade with clafoutis of Mediterranean vegetables and melted of leek, an assortment of refined cheeses, and, finally, a biscuit chocolate with morello cherries, praline with stuffed rice and black fruit cream. The gourmet dishes will be accompanied by a Château Leyssac Saint-Estèphe 2001 and a Pouilly Vinzelles 2006.

The couple enjoyed dinner as soft romantic music played in the background. They fed each other. They looked out the window and saw the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre palace, and Notre Dame de Paris amongst other sights.

The yacht was making its way to the Pont des Arts which is famous for their love padlocks. The yacht slowed down. The butler came and helped the couple to the front of the deck.

Olivia looked up and saw a rose falling down, but realized it was more than one. They just coming. In a span of a couple of minutes five hundred roses were on the deck.

Olivia had been so caught up with the roses falling that she wasn't paying attention to Fitz. She turned around and saw he was down on one knee as the roses continued to fall. In total there was 1,000 roses covering the deck.

Olivia couldn't stop the tears from falling as she realized what was happening. She also didn't noticed Kimberly Mitchell & her crew who were shooting live. Fitz wanted the world to know who and what he wanted. He wanted to show her that he was all in.

Fitz said, "When we were on vacation I had a conversation with our daughter. At first neither of us realized we wanted to talk to the other about the same thing. She wanted to know when I was going to make it official. I wanted to make sure she was okay with me making it official. That night we talked and have worked on making this night magical for you because you deserve it. We know the significance of the roses. I love you Olivia Carolyn Pope. I didn't marry for love the first time around, and while for all intents and purposes this will be my second marriage I feel like it is my first. Now I know what it feels like to love and be loved, and I don't ever want to let that go. So Livvie please do me the honor of becoming my wife. I want every minute of every day for the rest of our lives."

Olivia could barely see because of her tears. The first time she tried to say yes nothing would come out, but it was important to her that he hear her say yes. So she took a deep breath and looked him in the eye.

"Absolutely. I want nothing more than to spend the rest of my life with you and our family."

Fitz stood up and picked her up. They could hear the cheers above. Fitz put her down and slid her engagement ring on.

Fitz said, "The kids & I designed the ring. I have to say I'm proud of Teddy. He can really keep a secret. We designed the ring together."

Olivia smiled as she looked down at the ring. It was two and a half carats. The center was a pear shaped purplish-pink diamond. It was very rare. Olivia bet Karen selected the diamond. It was a combination of their favorite colors. Teddy more than likely picked the pear because it was his favorite fruit. It was surrounded by fourteen brilliant cut white diamonds. There were another 123 diamonds. The whole band was diamonds. That was all Fitz. Honestly she was in love with it. They knew her very well.

Olivia looked around to see some of the roses were in the water. That is when she saw Kimberly. She looked up and saw them on a lakeside screen, and the kids and Lisa were waiting for them.

Olivia blushed, "Did the world just witness us getting engaged?"

He nodded.

"Can I say something?"

He nodded

She turned and looked at the kids and smiled. She waved and they waved back. Olivia turned and looked at Fitz again, "This proposal is beyond a dream come true, and to know that the kids were included has made it perfect. I'm sure the country feels better that I'm not just shacking up. Thank you for loving me through all of my faults and what nots. I love you more than I can ever express. I love those two up there like I carried them myself, and down the road I look forward to adding to our family."

Cheers roared.

A short time later they made it to the kids who were waiting for Olivia with bouquets of her favorite flowers. Calla lilies and orchids. They shared a long hug. Olivia smiled at Lisa as they hugged. Words were not needed. Marta was standing to the side not wanting to intrude. They called her over and embraced.

Tom came over, "Sir the car is ready for you. Huck will use the car you arrived in to get the family and Marta back home."

Olivia was confused at first, but realized their night was not ending.

The couple waved to the crowd, and allowed a few pictures before being whisked away.

Once in the car Olivia allowed the moment to set in. It was official. Fitz had proposed. They were getting married, and the whole world knew. In the past she would have cared what the world was saying, but not anymore. All that mattered was that those closest to them were happy and they were.

Fitz pulled out an envelope.

Olivia asked, "What is that?"

"Karen said it is a letter that she found among Jerry's things at school. Earlier she told me that we should read it together after you accepted my proposal. She said there was no way you wouldn't."

"She was right."

Fitz opened the letter.

Dear Dad and Liv,

When you receive this letter it means that you both have finally found a way to be together. I am writing this letter after talking to Olivia. Dad you are in a coma fighting for your life, and I'm writing this letter believing that you are coming back. I used my Grant charm to get her to tell me the truth."

Both of them laughed

"When we were on the trail I would watch the two of you together. Despite the idea that kids are dumb we really aren't. We only use that to our advantage. I saw dad go from being dead to alive when he was around you. I saw your eyes that were always filled with sadness began to glow again. You both showed me why I will now never go into politics. Instead of you Liv admitting that you really loved my dad you ran, and dad instead of you fighting for Liv you went along with the game all in the name of optics. A word that I hate with a passion. I realize after talking to Olivia she really loves you, and I told her that if she loves us and you she will find a way to get into your room. My mother doesn't realize she could sit in that room with you 24/7 and instead of bringing you back it would do nothing more than make you give up. You need to know that she still loves you."

The letter picks up a couple of days later.

"See I knew it. You came back. I know how. The agents talk. All that matters is that you are back. It pains me to say this because I am so in love with Olivia too, but I'm too you. Technically you're too old but we'll let that slide. I wanted to write this letter now so you both can know that I support you. I want the two of you to stop caring about the world, and care about each other. Once the world sees you they will fall in line. In the name of optics I will go there. Everyone loves a great love story. Since I can't marry you Liv I bought you this."

Fitz turned the envelope over and a ring fell into her hand. It was a South Sea Pearl Diamond Gold Ring.

"I know that you like simply. On your wedding day I thought this would be perfect because I know that day will come, and I will be there beaming. I looked forward to being your son. The pearl will protect the purity of your marriage. Dad, you never let me down. I want to be better than you, but not because you were bad. I will be better because you are my dad, and you will never put the kind of pressure on me that Pops did to you. I want you to be happy and staying with mother is not it. Love always Jerry."

The couple were crying as they read the letter again. Olivia looked the ring and slid it on. Fitz kissed it and hugged her.

Olivia whispered, "Do you feel it?"

"Yes, a sense of peace. That he can now really move on. His death was not in vain Livvie. I wish we had more time with him, but I'm grateful for the time I got."

"Me too."

A short time letter they pulled up to the Mandarin Oriental Paris. Tom & John took them in through a side entrance. They headed up to the Penthouse.

Olivia walked in and was floored not only at the suite but the setting. The flowers, candles, wine, and dessert.

She noticed two bags in the corner.

She looked at Fitz. He smiled, "Lisa and Karen"

"They really were involved."

Fitz smiled, "Yes your ring. Karen picked the center diamond, Teddy picked the shape, and I did the rest. I told them I wanted to do something with Roses because of our connection to the Rose Garden. Lisa showed me this Website. They had different set-ups for proposals in Paris. When I saw the roses I knew that was it."

"So the meeting with the President?"

"Was very real. When he called and asked I realized that it would be perfect to propose in Paris. What woman wouldn't love to be proposed to in Paris. So that night after you went out with Karen and Lisa we talked. She wanted you to feel like the queen you are. She wanted you to know that you deserved the world. I wanted it too so we went to work. Hence today."

"Wow, I love it."

"I'm surprised you haven't run to television to see what they are saying."

"Because it doesn't matter. The only people that really matter are already here, and I imagine Abby, Lauren, and Charlotte were told."

"They were and keeping the fork down at home. They were all very excited for you I might add."

"Good, then we will check in later. We have great teams. Right now I just want to enjoy being upgraded from First Girlfriend to First Fiancee. Let's take a selfie."

Fitz laughed and agreed. The couple went by the window where you could see the Eiffel Tower in the background. They took a couple of pictures and posted with the caption"It's Official I'm the First Fiancee of the United States" #SoInLove #Special #LoveMeSomeMrPresident."

Olivia walked around the Penthouse. The Panoramic views made the room even more spectacular than it already was.

Olivia asked, "So what time do we check out?"

"The day after tomorrow."

Olivia turned around.

Fitz smiled, "I know when we get back our lives are going to be hectic. The kids have school, you do as well in addition to your other obligations, and we will have to speak to the press at some point once we are back in the United States. I want us to really enjoy his for a moment before reality comes back."

Olivia nodded, "Bath"

"Absolutely. Did you love the dress you wore tonight?"

"Yes, Karen did great."

Fitz didn't say anything. She turned to look at him. "You picked the dress."

"Guilty"

"Why were you so nervous?"

"I don't know. I was nervous about this whole proposal. I wanted it to perfect. I wanted you to be happy, and I didn't want anyone to mess it up. From start to finish I wanted it to be an experience that could only be topped by our wedding."

Olivia let her dress fall to the fall. Fitz breath hitched. She got on her tippy toes and whispered, "Then your plan was very successful."

The couple walked into the bathroom where Olivia could see Fitz was prepared for them to enjoy a bath. He grabbed the supplies and ran them some water.

The couple relaxed. They looked at the pictures that Lisa and Karen had sent to them.

After their bath they laid in the bed enjoying the views. Olivia turned and looked at her fiancee. All she could do was smile. He really was hers now.

He leaned down and kissed her. The kiss quickly became passionate. Neither had put clothes on when they climbed in bed.

Olivia loved how he knew her body almost more than she knew it. Tonight he was really taking his time. Every time she thought it couldn't get better for them in the bedroom it did. The closer they got the better the sex was.

After finally giving each other several orgasms using their fingers and mouth they needed to be one.

When Fitz thrust into her she threw her head back for a moment. She then looked at him. He smiled, "I've been waiting so long for this day."

"To make love to me in Paris."

He began to thrust into her slow and deep. She felt him everywhere. Without missing a beat he said:

"No to make love to you as my fiancee. To make love to you knowing we are moving forward. Even when we have issues we are learning how to get through them together."

Tears began to form in their eyes.

"I have longed for the day where you were making love to me after you proposed. Where I finally realized that you chose me. That you were mine and I no longer had to share you with Mellie."

He threw her legs over his shoulders. He sank into her even more.

"Shit Fitz. So Good"

"I know baby,"

He hit her spot time and time again. He knew what every sound meant. When it was good, when it was a little too much but she wasn't going to stop him, when he knew she couldn't take much more, and when she was ready to cum.

He could tell she was ready, but she didn't want it to be over. She was trying to hold on.

Fitz looked down at her, "Let go. We have time Mrs. Grant to be."

When she heard him say that she exploded catching him by surprise. They both screamed. The pleasure was too much.

After a couple more rounds they finally fell asleep. Olivia didn't sleep long. She looked at Fitz. He looked so happy and peaceful. She decided not to wake him.

She carefully slid out the bed. She grabbed her robe out of her bag and made her way down to the kitchen. She fixed herself a snack.

She had a lot on her mind. For the first time she really took a moment to look at her engagement ring. It looked huge on her petite fingers, but not in a gaudy way. She loved everything about the ring, and it felt more special that the kids helped Fitz. A couple fingers over was the promise ring that Fitz had given her all those years ago, and on her other hand was the ring that Jerry had planned to present to her.

She didn't hear Fitz come into the room, "You okay sweet baby?"

She smiled at him, "I am baby. Just a lot on my mind."

"Care to share?"

"I was thinking about us getting married, and all that it will entail."

"Does that bother you? I know that we are expected to do it big and grand. If I'm being honest I would like to give you that, because I think you deserve it. Both of us do. I would like for us to plan something grand together to show our love."

Olivia didn't say anything.

"Wow okay crickets."

"Not for the reason you think."

"Then what Livvie. I thought we..."

"I want that as well Fitz, but I also want something small and intimate. So for the last couple of hours I have been thinking of how to say this, but here goes. I want to be your wife sooner than later, but to do something grand takes time."

"It sounds like you have a solution to the problem."

Olivia looked up, "I was wondering if you would consider us getting married in a small private ceremony during the Thanksgiving holiday. Where it would be only our family and friends. Huck can keep the marriage license private, and we have that big grand celebration in April. Not too hot or cold. Plenty of time to prepare."

Olivia finally looked up at Fitz whose face broke into a huge smile. "Livvie, I absolutely love the idea. Do you still want to go to Cape Cod for Thanksgiving?"

She nodded, "I do."

The next morning the couple finally watched the news, and it was nice to see the engagement on television. The world was happy. America felt secure. Olivia's initiative was also receiving tons of praise, and there were world leaders domestic and internationally that wanted to support the cause even more now that she was going to be the First Lady.

Everyone arrived at the Penthouse the morning they were set to leave Paris. The couple shared the news with kids, Marta, and Lisa who thought it was an excellent idea.

Back in D.C. Mellie had been hiding out in her home. She knew that they were waiting on her to comment on the engagement.

Mellie knew why she didn't receive a romantic proposal, but it still stung for some reason. Maybe it wasn't so much about the proposal but the fact that the kids were front and center. They were happy and supportive.

Mellie never believed that Olivia could handle being the First Lady. She would never handle the responsibilities well, and she wouldn't know how to stand beside Fitz.

She quickly realized how wrong she was. Olivia wasn't trying to be like her or or anyone else for that matter. She was showing the world a more modern First Lady. People respected her more because she was using her brains and skills to create change. Picking china patterns were part of her duties, but she was more than that. Fitz accepted that and encouraged her to use her voice. Together they were going to be unstoppable.

Her agent walked in the room and handed her a package. When she opened it up and saw what it was she gasped.

A/N-Several things I want to address.

*The prisons I referred to in this chapter are real. It is a fact that the prisons are listened as two of the world's hardest prisons.

*I brought up the cost of the outfits that Olivia wore, because the cost is often brought up when they are looking at Mrs. Obama's outfits. She tends to do mix it up a lot. A combination of low costs dresses with high end.

*In this chapter I write that as if their is a First Lady of France when their really isn't. He isn't nor has he ever married a woman ever from what I read. I could be wrong, but he didn't marry the last two women he was with. He was in a domestic relationship for years, before cheating on her with another woman who he moved in when he became President, but they broke up in the last year.

*In this update I changed the name of the initiative that Olivia was promoting. It is a real initiative that the President and First Lady are promoting. It is called "Let Girls Learn". The facts that I discussed are real, and found in the fact sheets on the White House website.

*The proposal set-up is real. There is a website that provides 30 scenarios to propose in Paris. I chose the roses for obvious reasons.

*I decided to make Olivia a little vulnerable. She wasn't running for her normal reasons, but she did.

*Finally, I try to do something a little different with each story to make them standout from one another. In this story I'm going to do something new that I have never done in any of my stories, and something I haven't seen too much in other stories. I'm going to keep Mellie around, and she is going to have to deal with Olivia especially after Olivia become the First Lady officially. It won't be petty and childish, but don't think that Olivia won't be happy that she now has the upper hand.

A/N 2-Thank you to the guest reviewer who stood up for me. I appreciate it more than you will ever know.