I hope you had a great week. After much delay, here is a new chapter, centered around Thanksgiving at Fitz's house. Hope you enjoy. xo

The holidays didn't hold much sentimental value to Fitz.

Growing up, the excitement of the season faded as the pressure and trauma of living in a broken home escalated. His parents split when he was young; Fitz couldn't remember a normal time when he didn't feel alone during Thanksgiving. With his Mom and her side of the family, he seemed to be okay. But being an only child, Fitz never had anyone to bond with during the constant changes over the years. When his mother passed, the joy was completely gone. Instead of re-creating meals that she taught him, he'd drink himself to sleep. Even as a married man, it was just another day to dress up and wear fake smiles. But when Teddy arrived, he chose to make an effort to change his mindset.

It also marked the start of a new relationship with his father, Gerry. The divorce ruined the connections they had. Fitz resented everything about his namesake. Gerry was a womanizing businessman, dabbling into politics, and never viewed his son as a child. More like a little soldier, being formed into whatever image he wanted. That led to months without communicating, and when rare conversations occurred, it led to fights.

Then he realized that he had to grow up. Being alone again for the third time was devastating, so when his father called to console, he picked up the phone. It took time, but Fitz was taking baby steps; he and Gerry talked once a week, learning more about each other, pulling away the thick curtains that separated them. Progress was made when Fitz accepted the invitation to visit California. He did not want a repeat for his son. Fitz wasn't going to force anything, but at the same time, he was not going to withhold a budding connection.

The universe was working in their favor. Teddy loved spending time with his grandfather; it lit a spark in Gerry that had long been extinguished. There is something about a grandparent and grandchild who were able to connect in a way that sometimes the middle generation may not understand fully. Fitz found it beautiful to watch them play and talk.

Father and son swapped every year for the fall holiday. This year was Gerry's turn to come to the East ad he would spend five days in Washington. The Grant men always tried to do something special during their long weekend. Hiking, laser tag. It was hard to come up with a particular event to do.

Since having their heart-to-heart, Fitz was drumming up the courage to ask Olivia to join them. Whenever he hinted about Thanksgiving, she wouldn't bite at sharing information. He knew better than to bug her, but he didn't want to miss out on an opportunity. If she did say "yes", it would be the first time a lady would join them in four years.

"What do you usually do for Thanksgiving?"

Fitz and Olivia were in the car, catching up on life. It had been a busy week and work had limited their time together. Saturdays worked best for them, usually while running errands.

"Not much."

"Oh?"

Olivia plainly informed, "I just go to Wegman's or Dean and DeLuca, find some of my favorite dishes. Eat. Have leftovers. It's not a big deal, baby."

"What about your parents?"

With a forced smile, she revealed, "Fitzy, we aren't close. Once I graduated from Georgetown, we all grew apart. It was never meant to be, I suppose."

The brutally honest confession was so sad to hear.

"I'm sorry."

"I'm alright."

Fitz asked, "Friendsgiving?"

"Every other year."

"Well," he interjected, accelerating on the highway. "If you're interested, you can join us."

Olivia sweetly replied, "That's so sweet of you. I have to ask, will it be a big crowd?"

A slight nod. "Just my Dad, Teddy, and me. I cook. We watch a movie, football. Some type of fun activity during the weekend. I try to make it special."

"Does Mellie come up?'

"No," Fitz said emphatically, almost a little too sharp. He quickly apologized.

"I understand. How does that work?

"If the schedule works in her favor, she visits here or Teddy rides with a few of her cousins down to North Carolina. But usually they visit during Christmas break, late birthday celebrations. Not looking forward to that."

"What will happen this year?"

Fitz cleared his throat; "Mellie will be visiting during his Christmas break. So I'm sure Teddy will be with her from the 27th-1st."

He felt Olivia's hand rest on his knee. "At least you have his birthday and Christmas."

"Yeah," he mumbled. "It's still hard to process."

"Do you have to go through a lawyer?"

"Of course. Cy takes cares of me. He's doggish. She usually complies. But I'm waiting for the day when she wants to try to gain custody. Or if, God forbid, we have to reassess and it becomes joint custody."

Silence took over for a minute. It still stung to talk about the current condition with Olivia.

"I would love to join you this year."

Fitz's eyebrows rose. "Really? Awesome!"

"Yes, it would be nice to do something different for a change."

Olivia's acceptance was the highlight of his day. All he had to do was ask; she could have said no. But the fear of being rejected was dwindling.

Their afternoon was quite nice, ending at Olivia's apartment. They had about 30 minutes before Fitz had to get home. A quick cuddle fest on the couch was appropriate. In between sweet kisses, Olivia requested, "Tell me about him. Your father."

"Fitzgerald Grant Jr. aka Dad aka Poppy. He's a no-nonsense kind of guy. But he can be fun. He meant business. He traveled a lot when I was young. My parents didn't fare well. Almost like how Mellie and I fucked up. Work and other goals took precedence. I got used to being the rich latchkey kid. Then I went to boarding school. So that took away the longing I had to have a regular family. My mom passed when I was 20. It was extremely hard. Our relationship hasn't always been a great one. But when I got divorced, I leaned on him more. It was a surprise. I reached out and he didn't pull away like usual."

"That's wonderful," she said, "I'm lowkey jealous."

Rubbing his hand on Olivia's arm, Fitz was unsure. "I don't know about all that."

"Yeah," she curled into his embrace. "But let's focus on you, my love. Are you excited to see him?"

Fitz sighed before giving his answer. It was always a mixed bag when he and his father were together. All the bad memories would rush through his head and his tendencies were to sink into himself, and just let things happen.

"Sure. It will be alright."

Olivia ran her fingers through his hair, letting out a faint "shh"; "It's different now, right? I'm here. Teddy's here."

"Yes," he replied, eying her lips. "Gosh, you know how to calm me down."

Then, he kissed her, being incredibly thankful that she was in his life.

A little while later, Fitz returned home. After paying the babysitter, he went upstairs. Teddy was playing on the iPad, probably drawing or beating his old record on a favorite game.

"Hey, buddy boy."

"Hiya, Dad."

Fitz sat down next to him. "I want to tell you something."

"What's that?"

"We have a special guest coming over for Thanksgiving."

The tapping on the tablet stopped. Teddy slowly asked, "Uncle Harrison?"

"No, he's going to Florida."

Teddy gave a convincing frown, tapping his feet, still figuring out the right answer. "Oh…Guy or a girl?"

"A girl. A lady."

Fitz waited for his son to get his "a-ha" moment: eyes widening, mouth dropping, hands curling into excited fists.

"Livia," he whispered.

Leaning forward, remaining as calm as possible, Fitz replied, "Yes."

Teddy rose to his feet, clutching his iPad, hopping up and down. "Yay! Then she can see how we do Thanksgiving. Thank you, Daddy!"

Fitz hugged him tightly, kissing the top of his head. "You're welcome. I'm glad she's coming too."

The night before Thanksgiving, Fitz, Olivia, and Teddy went to Maggiano's for dinner. It was a half day at the school; Teddy and Fitz spent the afternoon cleaning and prepping for Gerry's arrival — he was going to stay at the house. Olivia stopped by around 4, with supplies for a cute snack — Creating turkeys out of Oreos, candy corn, and pretzel sticks.

It would be a casual first meeting with Gerry. Putting on a good face, Fitz wanted to make sure that Olivia would be comfortable. His father hadn't met anyone since Mellie; there was no reason to, because Fitz didn't feel any true connection. It would be a casual first meeting with Gerry. Putting on a good face, Fitz wanted to make sure that Olivia would be comfortable. His father hadn't met anyone since Mellie; there was no reason to, because Fitz didn't feel any true connection. Plus, the constant badgerings of "When are you going to meet someone new?" always irritated and did not encourage him to even try to include his father into his love life.

But Olivia was different. She was the one.

He was trying to gauge Olivia's body language. She appeared to be calm. Taking her hand, giving it a squeeze, he asked, "Are you good?"

"Yes," she smiled. "It's going to be fine."

As they waited in the crowded lobby, a tall man — dressed in a sports coat, turtleneck and slacks — with a glorious crown of white entered.

"Poppy!"

"Hey, Teddy man."

Fitz smiled as his son and father greeted each other.

"Hi, Dad."

Gerry extended his arms, giving his only son a warm hug. "Good to see you."

Taking a step back to gesture towards his love, Fitz introduced, "Dad, I would like you to meet Olivia."

"Hello," he shook her hand. "So happy to finally meet you."

"Likewise, Mr. Grant."

"Oh no, please," he offered, "Call me Gerry."

"Grant, party of four."

"That's us, Daddy," Teddy announced with bright eyes. "Let's follow the… mai-truhhh-DEE!"

Everyone sat down, and after giving their drink orders, Fitz started the conversation.

"How was your flight?"

Gerry shrugged, "Fine. I can't complain. How are you doing, Theodore?"

"I'm fine, Poppy. Tomorrow is Thanksgiving."

"Very good," he responded, giving Teddy a quick kiss on his temple. "Miss Olivia, I would love to know more about you."

Fitz kept an eye on the two, listening carefully to the whole conversation. The elder Grant seemed to be pleased to learn that Olivia was independent, driven, and cared a lot for his family.

"That's wonderful, Olivia. I believe that my son is treating you well."

"Yes," she answered, turning her gaze towards Fitz. "He has been the best to me. It's been a great few months."

Working through his fettuccine, Teddy interrupted, "Poppy?"

"Yes, son."

With a darling glance, that no one could refuse even with slurping and lips being covered with creamy alfredo, Teddy told his grandfather, "Daddy loves Livia."

Fitz almost choked on his glass of water. He had only discussed about how special Olivia was to him, not wanting to get ahead of himself. The excitement of the upcoming weekend, Fitz forgot to remind Teddy what to and what not to talk about.

"Is that so?"

Gerry looked up to Fitz, giving him a quick nod.

"Yes! And I love her too," Teddy exclaimed, looking sweetly at Olivia. "She's the best."

"Very good."

There was more chit-chat, planning a day trip to Philadelphia, Gerry's new endeavors into home renovating. Normal bullshit that Fitz didn't feel like talking about, but did't want to rock the boat. Olivia left for the restroom, giving Gerry the perfect opportunity to share.

"Son."

"Yeah?" Fitz waited for his father to drop a bomb.

"I'm proud of you. Olivia is a great young lady. You two seem to be very happy."

Eyebrows lifting slightly, while wiping Teddy's messy hands, he replied, "Thanks."

"I know you're going to ask me at some point, so I'll save you time," Gerry said. "You have my full blessing. I haven't seen my boys this happy in a long time."

"Thank you."

"I hope you're happy too. You deserve that, you know."

Fitz wasn't expecting such positive feedback. It was blowing his mind. And they weren't even drinking, so he knew that this was very genuine. "I am."

"Good."

The rest of the evening was quiet. Teddy rode with Gerry to get ice cream, giving Fitz time to to think and prepare himself for the next day.

"Dinner appeared to go well," Olivia remarked.

As much as he appreciated her enthusiasm, Fitz kept a stern face.

"There haven't been any fights so so I'll take it. I just never know with him. Hell, I question myself. Same temper, stubborn. I don't want to be like him. I didn't have the best examples of a father. But I'm trying."

Olivia interrupted, "You are. You are doing your best. You are a great father. Teddy is blessed to have you."

"Thanks. I always feel so inadequate around him. I just want to show him that I'm making it."

Fitz pulled into the driveway. Before he unlocked the front door, he asked, "Are you spending the night?"

Olivia looked unsure, crossing her arms. "Should I? I don't know. Would your father be opposed to this?"

Narrowing his eyes, he pretended to scold her as he pulled her into his chest. "He shouldn't care because it's my house. My rules. He takes the guest room. Which is downstairs and far away from our room. If you want to stay, I will gladly have you."

"Oh no," a horrified Olivia gasped, "Have you changed the sheets?"

Fitz quickly spat, "Of course! I have couth, Miss Pope. I've been in that room since our little angry tryst. I didn't want anyone realizing we use that bed for midnight getaways."

"You're incorrigible."

"Don't I know it," he grinned, before kissing her deeply.

Fitz woke up first, padding to the kitchen to start his day-long feast. Usually, Gerry would call ahead to the quaint supermarket a mile up the road to order the full menu. Their first dinner in DC, Teddy was only 2 and a half, and still clingy. It was a wise decision since Fitz couldn't dedicate much time to cooking. This time, he wanted to kick it up a notch and impress his father and Olivia. He had been shopping all week, selecting ingredients would do the job. He only told Gerry not to worry — he would take care of it.

In no time, he whipped up a stack of whole wheat and pumpkin pancakes, bacon, and a fresh pot of coffee. The smell would surely bring his guests downstairs. He had come a long way since Teddy was a baby. Preparing meals were not a stumbling block anymore.

"Happy Thanksgiving, Daddy!"

Teddy skipped into the kitchen, donning his dinosaur pajamas.

"Good morning! Are you ready for the parade?"

As he nodded enthusiastically, Teddy wiggled in his seat. "It's my favorite part. Outside of eating and playing in the leaves."

Fitz smiled, serving a large plate. "Eat up!"

"Thank you, Dad. I love you."

"I love you too."

A sleepy Olivia joined them.

"Hi, guys."

Teddy waved.

Receiving a quick kiss, Fitz beamed. Olivia casually poured herself a cup and sat down at the island. He took a moment to blissfully observe the scenery. His son and his love, giggling over the parade on TV. This was a dream come true - he hadn't felt so at ease since he was a child.

Olivia interrupted his thoughts; pointing at the stove, she asked, "Are you cooking?"

"Yes, I am."

"Fancy. You didn't tell me this."

It was music to his ears to know that she was surprised. "I prepped the turkey. Already in the oven. I have an hour before I start up again, with the smaller dishes."

Olivia wiggled her eyebrows. "Is that so? Can I assist you?"

"I guess," he replied slyly. "As long as you don't distract me, I'm cooking for four. I can't foul up."

"That's cool."

Teddy had just left the area. Olivia's eyes had a smokiness to them, a little darker. "Can I steal you away for a quick shower," she whispered.

Fitz immediately could feel himself being aroused. "Shit, Livvie."

"I thought it'd be selfish of me to not ask." Olivia nursed on her coffee.

Getting a rise out of him was her power. Fitz knew what she was up to. Taking a step closer, he commented, in a low growl. "I know you're not teasing me. Because you what happens when you tease."

The smirk Olivia gave as she sauntered off, was the kicker. He couldn't resist that woman. Double checking the area, confirming that nothing would be knocked over, burned, or eaten prematurely. Then, he ran upstairs to have some quality time with Liv.

Locking the door to ensure privacy, he raced to find new clothes.

"You better hurry, Grant. It's a quick shower."

Fitz took his sweet time to enter. Olivia grinned, as she lathered the shampoo in her hair. Every part of her looked more beautiful every day.

"Hi."

"You're lucky I love you. Stepping away from my agenda." Fitz loved how he towered over Olivia — especially when she wasn't in heels — he could protect her and capture every facial expression.

"This will probably be the only time we will be alone all day," Olivia remarked, kissing his shoulder blade, then the middle of his chest. "I didn't want to lose that opportunity."

He tilted his head back as she slowly ran her hand down his cock. She knew how to tempt him, dragging her soft fingers across his velvety member. Trying not to explode, he clenched his jaw, doing his best to enjoy. But he wouldn't let her finish without using some of his superpowers.

"Soap up," he ordered.

As he delicately washed Olivia, he got harder, captivated by her sensual traits.

"Oh, Fitz," she sighed. Her legs squeezing shut as he kissed her all over.

The water was still warm, so he wanted to capitalize on their perfect situation.

"I need you to open up, baby," he crooned, cupping her sex, getting a peak. He bit his lip, so turned on by watching how she responded to his touch. Quick grunts, eyes snapping shut, her stomach tightening.

Fitz brought his cock towards her center. Asking for her permission, she nodded. "Please."

Entering her swiftly, muffling his groans into the crook of her neck as he filled her. She felt so good. Exquisite. Just perfect. He would never get tired of that moment when their bodies became one. He knew he didn't have much time before Teddy or his father would ask about their whereabouts.

As their hips rocked in tune with his fast thrusts, Olivia pulled on his lower lip, like sucking the juices out of a ripe piece of fruit. Fitz knew he wouldn't be able to hold himself together, so he went faster, to make sure she would orgasm first.

Sure enough, his wish came true. Olivia fell apart, nearly falling down in the stall, but Fitz wrapped her arm around her waist, holding her tight, as he finished. Feeling her tighten and pulse around him never failed to push him over the edge.

Cold water sprayed on them. With a chuckle, he whispered, "So much for a quick shower."

"Hush," she kissed him. "You came running when I called."

They returned downstairs in 20 minutes, acting like nothing happened. Fitz's hair was still wet, but he felt relaxed.

"Well, I see the lovebirds are up and at 'em."

The two stood frozen as a bushy-tailed Gerry chuckled, raising his mug to them. "Don't mind me. I'm just getting more coffee and going back to the living room. I'm staying with Teddy. Have fun."

It was like getting caught behind the bleachers. Where they that loud?

"C'mon," she tugged on his hand. "You have work to do."

Opening a small book that came from his mother, Fitz went down the list of food to make.

"Shoot," he reprimanded himself.

"What is it?"

"I haven't decided on a dessert. Teddy will have my neck if I don't have one."

Olivia moved to the cupboard, pulling out the flour. Then, retrieving cold butter, she asked. "Want to make a crust with me? I actually know how to do this."

"Sure. What kind of pie do you want to make?"

"I don't know," she shrugged, then scooted by him to look for available options.

"Apple?"

"Mehh."

"Peach cobbler?"

"How about Blueberry?"

They looked at each other, as if their combined mental prowess would decide. Then, their voices exclaimed, "Boysenberry!" Which in turn, sparked a roll of laughter. It was the most random of fruit but to know that they thought of the exact suggestion, was amusing.

"Cherry works," he replied, "I have two cans of cherries."

Quickly, Fitz turned on the iPad, picking the exact recipe he wanted. Simple and yet enjoyable. They had never cooked together before. He was thrilled to do this. It felt so natural, moving around in the kitchen with this woman. Watching her look at ease, a far cry from the summer. Her eyes twinkled when she would ask for his help. Feeling extra corny, he suggested that they take turns kneading the dough. Fitz stood behind her as his hands overlapped hers. It was just as romantic as the deep kisses they shared.

Her hips swayed whenever she hummed. Maybe it was a way to distract herself while cooking. He didn't mind. He was still enamored by her. The time spent making dinner was perfect.

"Oh, Livvie."

"What," she asked, with a piece of dough in her hand, turning around to find him.

Fitz could feel his lips lift into a crooked smile. Feeling a little goofy for being so sentimental, he answered, "This is nice. I'm glad you're here."

Olivia wiped the flour on her apron. Giving him a tight hug, she said, "I love you, Mr. Grant."

"I love you more, Miss Pope."

For a party of four, the spread was impressive. Turkey, ham, deviled eggs, green beans, macaroni and cheese, sweet potatoes, stuffing, rolls, a salad, cranberries. With Olivia's help, Fitz successfully made a complete dinner. Two pies were staying warm in the kitchen - apple and cherry. As well as Teddy and Olivia's joint creation - oreo cookies dressed up as turkeys.

Olivia changed into a dark blue dress, with her hair pulled into a high ponytail. Fitz opted for a plaid shirt and dark jeans. It wasn't too fancy, but traditions ran deep. He couldn't look like a slob after working nonstop in the kitchen.

When he was helping Teddy get dressed, he noticed that they were going to be twins.

"I look a lot like you, Daddy."

"Yeah?"

"Mmhmm," the younger Grant confirmed, straightening his collar in the mirror. "We look good."

"I want you to do your best and eat as much food as you can."

Teddy twisted his lips, staring Fitz down. "You and Poppy won't fight, right?"

"Not tonight, buddy," he assured, thinking about the fight of the century. They had their spats, but when they argued over parenting styles and looking for a new someone in Fitz's life, that's when things got messy . "It's going to be a great Thanksgiving."

So far, Gerry's visit had been uneventful. Twenty hours in and no attacks or shady comments.

Fitz followed Teddy downstairs. Olivia and Gerry were talking about something, but he wasn't going to find out what that was.

Gerry stood to greet his family; "This looks glorious! Thank you for making all of this."

Maneuvering Olivia's seat closer to the table, Fitz replied, "You're welcome. Thanks for keeping Teddy busy."

"Now," Gerry asked, "I think we should go around the table and give thanks. What are you thankful for?"

Teddy sat up proudly in his chair. His huge smile was bursting at the seams. "I've been thinking about this all day. I'm thankful for Daddy and Poppy and Livia. My friends. The beach. My markers."

"And I am thankful for family. Good health. To another year of luck, joy, and love."

Fitz and Olivia raised their wine glasses. Teddy lifted his cup of apple cider.

"How about you?"

Olivia glanced at Fitz, then announced, "Second chances."

"Dadddyyyy," Teddy whined. "You have't gone yet!"

The prompt glare silenced the complaint, but a smile followed. "I know, I wanted you all to go first. Let's see. I'm thankful for a wonderful son who keeps me on my toes and loves me even when I don't deserve it. A job that I enjoy. For you, Dad. And to you, Olivia. Meeting you was the best moment of my year. I love you."

Seeing her eyes mist, Fitz knew he had said the right words.

"Daddy, may I share?"

"Of course."

"I learned this in school. Everyone, close your hands and fold your hands!" Teddy shut his eyes, clasped his hands together, pushing his lips forward, looking incredibly serious. Fitz almost cackled, but he had to be respectful. He lowered his head, reaching for Olivia's hand.

"Dear God, thank You for our many blessings. Take care of people who don't have as much as we do. I know You love them and will help them. I ask You to bless our food. Amen."

The three adults echoed, "Amen."

After dinner and dessert, accompanied by lots of laughter, Teddy was stuffed, very ready to get to bed. He knew the family would have a busy day in the morning.

"We get to go to Philly! Going to Phil-a-del-pheee-ahh tomorrow! Good night, Livia, I gotta get to sleep. Poppy, will you tuck me in?

"Not me," Fitz mock whined. His blue eyes matching the same intensity as Teddy's chocolate orbs.

"Maybe tomorrow, Daddy. I see you every night. You can hang out with Livia, or tuck her in when she's ready to go to bed."

Gerry shook his head, while Olivia stared at Fitz in disbelief. A crazy ripple effect, all because of a kindergartner's smart mouth.

"To bed, you go."

As the Grant charm flowed through little Theodore, waving as he marched away, Fitz let out a sigh. Quite embarrassed, feeling awkward, and but knowing the quip was downright funny, he couldn't deny the quick wit off his offspring.

"Sorry," he told Olivia. "What am I going to do with him?"

She shrugged with a knowing smile, "I think you should enjoy these moments, Fitzgerald. He's going to grow up faster than you think and he won't be as sweet and innocent with his answers."

Dimming the lights, Fitz piled up the dishes that hadn't been cleaned yet. He sorted them into the dishwasher, not even realizing that Olivia had wiped down the countertops.

"Damn, lady," he smirked. "You're like a ninja."

"I do what I can."

In the middle of the room, they embraced, not even caring if anyone saw them. Fitz looked down at Olivia - her features glowed. Capturing her lips, slowly prying her mouth open so he could gain access. Sighs of contentment filled the space. Their elaborate kisses renewing the love and passion they had for each other.

"Good night, lovebirds."

Fitz didn't even open his eyes, just lifting his hand to shoo his father away. Olivia slipped her hands into his back pockets, squeezing his ass to pull him back in the moment. If this was a preview of things to come, he was all in. Another new memory to erase the old.