AN: Thank alll of you who continue to follow, favorite, pm and review this story! I added the Olitz night out because a lot of you wanted to see it and I felt kind of bad for not being able to incorporate some of your suggestions into this since I've pretty much got it mapped out in my head(pulling it out and writing it down is a whole other story at this point.) I still plan to do an official Olitz night out within the next couple of chapters and hopefully it will turn out better. In this chapter I was just trying to get them out in public together while still leaving the extent of their relationship vague, hopefully I pulled it off.

Chapter 14

If Olivia Pope learned anything on her first public outing with Fitzgerald Grant it was that the man was made for the spotlight. It was apparent in the way he commanded the room with his presence, his effortless charisma and the ability to put everyone he came into contact at ease; from the agents assigned to his detail right down to the hostess ushering them through the restaurant. No matter who they were or what position they held he had a way of letting them know that he saw them.

When they entered the private dining area, two couples were already present and Olivia relaxed at the sight of them. During their short introductions she could see the potential for interesting if not great friendships with Cecily and Marion, who seemed as knowledgeable, sweet and well meaning as they came. Once their arrival was noted by the Caldwells and Chases alike all conversations that were underway came to an abrupt halt.

Full of high spirited energy and playfulness shimmering in her blue eyes, Cecily made her way over to them and introduced herself to Abby and Harrison before zeroing in on Olivia and Fitz. She embraced Olivia first, catching her slightly off guard with the greeting, but she quickly recovered. Fitz was already prepared for her and accepted the gesture accordingly. "Fitzgerald, you trickster. I have to say I was so surprised but delighted to get your invitation. I was sure you would have been home or at the very least on your way home by now."

"Nope, first thing in the morning though."

"Well, I guess the reason for that is obvious and I have to say it agrees with the both of you," she smiled at one and then the other. "Why don't you and Harrison go join the boys while us girls chat?"

Thinking it was so like her to take control of a situation even though she was technically a guest, Fitz rolled his eyes. Placing his hand on Olivia's shoulder for a brief moment he sought her permission before even entertaining the idea of leaving her side.

"It's fine, we're fine. Go."

"Marion, dear," CiCi waved her hand at her longtime friend. "Trust me, all the fun is over here."

Looking chic in her own right with a rabbit fur trimmed wrap draped over her little black dress she gushed over Olivia and Abby's attire before initiating introductions and diving into the latest happenings in her world.

Since Fitz had organized the dinner, he took the appointed place at the head of the table but balked at the idea of seating Olivia so far away at the opposite end. He pulled out the chair to his immediate right for her with Abby and Harrison sitting at her side. After a quick moment of adjustment for everyone else present, they took their places and their night officially began.

Although he'd clearly spared no expense when it came to food and drink, she regretfully limited her intake of the Margaux du Chateau Margaux and switched to water too soon even for her own liking.

"Everything okay? Would you like to try something else? A different vintage or entree?" Fitz asked, his attention on her magnified so he could assess every aspect of the experience for her.

"No, everything is perfect. The cuisine and the wine, magnificent. It's just that I have to be on camera tomorrow, remember? I shouldn't indulge too much."

"We really should have waited to do this another time shouldn't we?"

"No, we shouldn't. Everything is impeccable; the night, the presentation, the setting, and especially the company." Without thinking she covered his hand with her own. Looking around at laughter and conversation flowing along with the food, she smiled in pleasure. "There's nowhere else I'd rather be."

"Your mood is deceptively demure, docile and restrained tonight, what gives?" Harrison joked in Abby's ear after downing the last of his champagne.

Abby snickered and angled her head in his direction. "Liv promised to put an end to the hair envy I inspire at the studio if I mess this up for her." She absently fingered the ends of her curls even though she knew Olivia was exaggerating to emphasize the importance of the night.

"You mean she threatened you with a snip snip? Get out," he chuckled. "Man she's not playing about this."

"It was more of a chop chop. But yeah, publically keeping company with a former POTUS is just about as serious as it can get. But if you ask me they should have just stayed holed up at her place for the rest of the night and came up for air tomorrow. I mean look at them."

She nodded towards the couple for his benefit and he observed the two of them holding hands as they talked and laughed until the wait staff returned to clear the dishes.

After the night wound down and the party broke up Cecily followed Olivia to the coat check and pulled her to the side. After scanning the area for any signs of Fitz she leaned in closer and began whispering. "Liv, I know that you're super busy as am I. But when you have some free time I'd love for us to get together sooner than soon for lunch or dinner or brunch or whatever's easier for you. I'm going to Vermont to be with Fitz and the kids for Wednesday's hearing and then I'll be heading to London on Friday with Phillip. So maybe next Saturday if you're free? Just give me a call later and we'll iron everything out, okay?"

Olivia could only nod and smile while trying to comprehend the totality of the words of the exuberant personality in front of her. "Okay, I guess. I'm just not so sure of..."

"I won't waste your time, promise. It's important, trust me."

"Alright, next Saturday sounds fine at the moment. I'm not expecting anything major to be going on but I can't swear by it." Olivia searched the crowd and saw Abby and Harrison approaching, walking hand in hand. Genuinely happy that they were done fighting the reality of their situation as well she smiled. "Where's Fitz?"

"Still saying his goodbyes. And he was asking for you," Harrison told Cecily before turning to Olivia. "And he wanted me to let you know the car is already waiting for us."

He extended his arms with flourish and both women latched onto one, allowing him to escort them towards the door as they talked and laughed.

"Olivia Pope?"

Hearing her name called stopped the trio in their tracks. Curious, she ignored the nerves coursing through her and plastered a smile on her lips before reversing her steps. "Yes?"

The young woman's face lit up with recognition and she squealed in spite of other patrons obvious displeasure. "I thought that was you! I love you on Top of the Morning. I think you're hilarious. You're so funny, but quick too. Very informed. My absolute favorite. And I know this is your downtime but would you mind? I'm not from New York and I'll probably never see another famous person in my entire life."

Olivia's eyes bulged at the sight of the smartphone but agreed to the request with a nod of her head. They huddled together with wide smiles lining their lips and just as the camera flashed for the second time, Fitz touched the small of her back and strolled by them surrounded by guards. When she heard peculiar sounds to her immediate left she averted her eyes from him and focused on her fan. Olivia thought for a brief moment the hyperventilating girl would pass out from the shock of it all.

"Was that President Grant or do I need to go get evaluated like pronto?"

"No, I have it on very good authority that it was definitely him," Olivia replied after having a small chuckle.

"I've been overhearing whispers all night that some unnamed VIP was set up in one of the private rooms but I never would have guessed it was someone that important. And he recognized you. The man acknowledged you. Our former President touched you! I guess he still remembers you from that interview you two did. Was he really as nice as he seems? Is he really really handsome up close or did you all have to use camera and makeup tricks for him? Were you in a private room too just now? I bet those things cost a ridiculous amount of money to even look at nevermind use, don't they? I know that none of what I just said is any of my business. It's just all so surreal you know!"

As the brunette continued talking, Olivia's gaze darted from Fitz's still retreating form to Abby and Harrison who were still waiting on the sideline for her.

The woman groaned and continued talking. "I wish I could have approached him but at least I can say I got a glimpse. The two of you have really made all the hard earned money I blew on this trip worth the loss."

"Glad I could help take some of the sting out," Olivia replied lightly. "And about that seeing another famous face, never say never. One day you might be back and have an experience that will change your life forever."

"You're right. We should never say never."

After approving one more picture, Olivia said goodbye and was on her way.

"Do you regret it?" Fitz asked after they dropped off Harrison and Abby and were alone in the back of the car once again. "Well, do you?" He looked down at their joined hands, squeezed and then repeated the question once he didn't receive an answer.

"Regret what, Fitz?" She stopped staring out at the night to study him.

"Being with me? Us? Giving this a real shot and even daring to be seen in a semi public setting?"

"No. Never. Of course not."

"Then what's wrong? Why do I feel like you've been a little distant tonight?"

"Well it's not you, I can promise you that." She moved closer to him, into his embrace, laid her head on his shoulder and sighed. "A part of me was bracing for an ambush from the paparazzi but once we were altogether and having a good time the feeling eventually left. As for now? Honestly, I'm just beat. I guess the entire week of work plus our time at CiCi's place, the hoopla that was last night's gala and then weighing decisions about us as well as tonight's dinner has finally caught up with me."

"Oh, that's understandable." Relieved he kissed her forehead. "I just thought that you were having second thoughts about us and maybe getting tired of me."

"You wish."

"No, I don't actually. I plan to be around as long as you'll have me."

Moved by his frankness, she held his gaze for a long while and then kissed him.

"It will get easier Olivia. I really believe that. Once things with Mellie are settled once and for all, we can move forward anyway we choose to."

"I'm saying an extra special prayer that your declaration becomes reality. I just wish that I could be in Vermont for moral support, but at least you'll have CiCi."

"Yeah, because that's the perfect compromise," he replied dryly, causing her to giggle.

"Fitz, you're terrible." She slapped his arm. "She loves you, Karen, and Gerry very much."

"I know and I love her too. We all do. And I appreciate how much she's trying to be there, especially as a role model and support system for Karen. I just hate it when she steps on my toes."

"Oh you big, poor baby. Whenever she does it again just let me know and I'll find a way to make it right."

"You promise?"

"I do."

"Well now that I think about it she was being kind of bossy at dinner."

"Really?" her brow arched and her lips curled in amusement.

"Yes." He made sure just the right amount of exasperation was evident in his voice. "Didn't you hear her? You should really try their foie gras, Fitz, leave the oysters and pearls for another time. The tres leches cake is definitely a better choice than the apple crescents. Or better yet, go with the brownie ganache torte. The woman was excruciatingly overbearing all night long. I'm surprised she didn't hop up and try to cover me with napkins in case I spilled something on myself. It really is a miracle I survived it at all. Now what are you going to do about it?"

"Hmm," she took a moment to touch her lip in mock consideration before cradling his head. "How about I kiss it and make it all better?"

He ran his hands under her coat and palmed her bottom before releasing a primitive growl. "Olivia Pope, have I ever told you that I love the way you think?"

While Fitz slept, Olivia ambled around her bedroom in his lavender shirt gathering everything she would need for work. Although her moves were quiet and cautious she still ended up stubbing her toe on the way to the closet. "Damn it!"

Her sharp tone woke him, made him pop up in bed like a jack in the box as he took in his surroundings and called out to her in a groggy husky voice. "Olivia?"

"It's okay, Fitz. Go back to sleep."

"What are you doing awake?"

"Trying to get a headstart on the day. I'll have to be at work before I know it. But you, you still have a little while left to sleep though. So you should. Sleep."

"Are you crazy? Why were you screaming?" He squinted, unsure if her eyes truly glistened with unshed tears or if it was a side effect of his disturbed rest.

"I hit my foot on the stupid chaise."

"Ouch. Does it really hurt that bad?"

"It's not exactly a picnic, but I'll live."

"That's good to know. But is that all?"

"You know it's not. I absolutely, positively hate when we have to say goodbye like this. I always end up feeling like ball of mush on the inside and looking like a big cry baby on the outside."

"I understand and it's okay because I feel the same way. Now come and let me hold you for a little while and we'll be two big cry babies together.

By midday, Olivia was once again trying to resign herself to the fact that Fitz would impact her world in some shape form and fashion for the foreseeable future. When she was devouring every bit of information she could find on him just a few short months ago she had no idea how much he would factor into her life, how much of her he would consume when things began on a strictly professional level between them.

But then she sighed when she recalled just how quickly those personal and professional lines had blurred.

Upon returning to her dressing room after her show had wrapped, she picked up the paper and saw that he had earned himself another blurb in the city's beloved publication . She smiled at the short piece titled Made for Manhattan before absorbing it. They had basically regurgitated most of the points made about him stemming from Saturday night's gala as well as adding commentary highlighting how he was still enjoying New York life after the fact.

Not surprisingly, his being spotted at one of the city's hottest eateries on Sunday evening had made its way into a reporter's ear. She was just shocked there was no mention or photograph of her in his vicinity to be found; so she breathed a sigh of relief for the fact that they still had their relationship to themselves even for just a few more minutes before moving on.

While rewatching clips of the morning's broadcast she was confident that she had kept her composure quite well when she had made mention of him during her recap of the Healing Hands gala. She gave herself a figurative pat on the back for how well she had delivered analysis, anecdotes and observations from the night overflowing with political and business heavyweights all while burying memories of the later friction with Fitz her contact with Keegan had caused. Even though the night had been chock full of glamour, excess, charity and tension she was able to keep her face neutral and her voice level as she recounted details for the viewers benefit.

Whenever Olivia looked back over her life she'd always think of the second Wednesday in November as a defining one. The night before it, nerves and the need to be an optimistic supporter providing encouragement and sound advice for the man in her life had kept her awake so long that she couldn't do anything but sleepwalk through the next day.

By the time lunch rolled around she knew she had to do something to get her head in the game because showing up to her afternoon meeting in her current state would be unwise.

Concluding that a workout was the only answer she threw on gym clothes, grabbed her bag and headed out. In the lobby, the size of the crowd participating in the mass exodus let her know that she was only one of many with the plan to part ways with the studio during the hour. Her body was mashed, contorted and shifted until she landed against a sturdy chest and was held upright by a pair of strong arms. "Olivia, are you all right?"

Recognizing Keegan's voice, she gathered her bearings and stepped out of his embrace immediately. And in the process of putting space between them, her butt bumped the person behind her. Embarrassed, she whipped her head around and apologized before answering her boss. "I'm fine now thanks to you. Thanks for the save."

"Glad I could save you from the bowels of the lunch hour rush. It would have been a shame to lose you at the beginning of such an epic stage," he joked and smiled. "Well as long as you're good."

When he finished what he had to say and started to walk away she shook her head in disbelief as the vicious crowd automatically parted peacefully in a show of reverence for him. She chortled and silently branded the lot of them as brown nosers when she noticed him moving back in her direction.

"Its lunchtime," he said simply.

"It is."

"And is this how you always spend your lunchtime? Working out I mean? Not getting knocked around in the lobby."

She pointed a finger and laughed to let him know she caught his attempt at humor. "Sometimes. It just depends on what's going on with me."

"And today called for a workout?"

"I believe it does, yes."

"Well if you're worried about the new contract, don't be. I think you'll be pleased with how we were able to address your concerns and meet some of your stipulations as well as compromise on some other things to both of our satisfaction."

"I'm glad to hear it. I can't tell you how honored I am for the opportunity to explore new territory within the BNN family."

"The same goes for me. Us, I mean. All of us as a whole will do great things together. Well, I won't keep you. But I will see you and your counsel later on and we'll make it all official."

The time spent in yoga class gave Olivia the boost she needed. Her mind was focused, clearer; she was alert and actually felt like a functioning member of society for the first time that entire day.

Later that afternoon, after class was finished and she'd showered, utilized hair and makeup personnel and dressed in a black pencil skirt and blouse she confidently opened the door to conference room A with her lawyer in tow. Even with Austin Burley's piercing voice resonating in her ear she could still feel the atmosphere shifting, charging, and changing as she became that much closer to embarking on her dream. So without further delay she smiled at the man, entered the room and prepared to get down to business.

In between words and phrases being inspected approved and decoded, pages turning, and pens scribbling there was small talk and polite jokes. And when signing was complete, hands were shaken and congratulations extended as a knock came at the door. When permission was granted to enter a young, lanky man wheeled in a buffet cart weighted down with food. The choices varied from fresh fruit and veggies deli meats cheeses breads and drinks to chilled seafoods.

"Ms. Pope, I think I would lower my rate for you if refer more of your coworkers to me. Just in case you all eat like this around here everyday," Olivia's attorney whispered loud enough for everyone in the room to hear

Keegan laughed and interrupted to explain. "I thought I'd have it brought up for anyone who felt like celebrating this historic moment, anyone who needs a little pick me up or in case anyone skipped lunch altogether, a meal."

The meaning behind his words weren't lost on Olivia. When she looked up from committing her contract to memory she saw that his eyes were trained on her. And when she only sat staring with her mouth half hanging open he raised his eyebrows challengingly.

"Why don't you go first, Olivia? You are the woman of the hour after all."

Even though prolonging the meeting with a late lunch wasn't on her to do list, she knew etiquette wouldn't allow her to refuse. So she stood and said a brief thanks to everyone in attendance before perusing and choosing from what was available.

After conversations lagged and a sizable portion of food was consumed, those assembled began their exit. Taking it as a sign that she was free to do the same, Olivia leaned over the desk and tucked her copy of the contract inside her briefcase before heading to the door.

"Olivia, I'd like a word."

Irritated that she was so close yet so far away from her way of escape, she pivoted and offered Keegan the smile she had perfected for the cameras.

"I know you're probably ready to be anywhere but here. And I'm sure that at least two people we know are ready to celebrate you, but I'd like to start brainstorming so we can get this thing off the ground sooner rather than later. I already have some ideas about the projected broadcast date as well as your first location and subjects so..."

"So do you mind if I place a few calls first?" she asked.

"No. Not at all."

They worked together efficiently and communication was seamless and void of misunderstandings about the tone and direction of her duties to be performed during her segments. The both of them voiced the belief that her strengths lie in her ability to connect and empathize with those she came in contact with so that would be the main focus of her work. People would be her priority. While others spoke of disasters and wars and the leaders who made the decisions concerning disasters and wars, she would focus on the ones affected the most and oftentimes forgotten, the citizens.

They plotted and reevaluated and assessed for the better part of the afternoon. And once they were confident in the outline they had established so far, they both agreed they were comfortable with calling it a day.

Still seated, she stretched, shifted and yawned while Keegan quietly watched her actions. Close to commenting on her thoroughness of her technique, the movement on the television screen caught his attention. Aware of the time, and how much of it was left until the evening news broadcast, he was puzzled by the appearance of his lead anchor in place.

Olivia witnessed his reaction and followed his gaze to the screen in time to see old video footage of Fitz and Mellie play out.

"Can we turn that up please?" she asked.

Just as he was obliging her request she saw the caption flash on screen in bold letters, Presidential Divorce Granted

"Well, I'll be damned," Keegan shouted. "Did you have any idea this was coming down today?"

Consumed by a torrent of emotions, all Olivia could do was shake her head as every word she attempted to utter caught in her throat. Ashamed of the unintelligible sounds that kept springing forth she closed her mouth and breathed through her nostrils.

"Are you okay?"

"I'm fine," she nodded and gave him a half smile.

"It's okay if you're not. I think we're all gonna need a minute to process. This is something that's never been seen before in our lifetime," he sighed. "I have to admit, there was a part of me that thought they'd make up. That maybe he was just suffering from a mid life crisis or disillusionment after leaving the White House. And the part that didn't...well I'm surprised that she didn't find a way to stall things even longer than this. I was sure she would ride the jilted wife train all the way to the ballot box. But I guess stranger things have happened or we wouldn't even be discussing this in the first place, huh?"

"You can say that again."

She muttered in agreement and listened intently as Grayson Lewis read the post divorce announcement of the ex Mrs. Fitzgerald Thomas Grant III.

AN2: I can't sign off without saying a very special thank you to those who never miss the chance to review every single chapter I put up. I look for your names now and get giddy when I get your notice because I know I'm gonna get something hilarious, encouraging or insightful whether it has to do with this story, Scandal or my writing in general. You all have made me look at those things in completely different ways now and I appreciate it so much. Thank you ScandalMania for the shoutout in your latest chapter (Still picking my jaw up from that one, ha!). Justafan51, I'm still cackling over Break-it up Fitz (I have a feeling you'll see him again). I think of break it up Fitz sometimes when I try to write and have to stop because I can't get the image out of my head lol.