It has been six weeks since Nathaniel and Noelle entered the world, and everyone loved them. None more than their parents and siblings. Since Olivia came home with the twins if you looked for one you often found all four.
Karen had been diligently working on their project, and to no surprise of her parents, she had been able to do most of it without their help. Fitz & Olivia only really stepped in to make sure to secure Anderson Cooper & Kimberly Mitchell.
Both were shocked that Karen would pretty much be running the show. They had come up with a great program. Anderson got to see how brilliant Karen Grant was. It allowed him to see if they adopted a child that DNA does not shape the child the parents do.
They had shot the promo. Both networks were getting exclusives into the lives of the First Family. Kimberly would be showing the world the twins for the first time. Anderson would be talking to the family.
The family that Anderson spoke with after the twins were born were being flown in First Class under the disguise that they were discussing how their lives had changed since the interview. They were being given a private tour of the White House. They told them that they would get to meet some of the people in the President's and First Lady's administration.
Olivia had arranged for the family to stay in the Federal Suite at the Hay Adams. All of their meals were being paid for by the couple although they were told the news station was covering it. Olivia had also arranged for them to be able to see the tourist attractions while they were in D.C.
Karen had put together a care package for the little girl whose name was Allison. Inside the package was a hand-written note from Karen. There was a new digital camera, and tickets for the family to go to the National Zoo. Karen learned that Allison loved animals.
It was the weekend of their interview and Karen's project was coming to life. With the help of many friends and teachers at the school Karen had a pretty big event planned after the interview with Kimberly. With the help of Marta, Rowan, and Nicole she had been able to do everything without their help so she could surprise them. If they believed in her she wanted to show them they had a good reason to.
Olivia had given her permission to miss school. She was up out of the house like she was going to school. She was curious, but decided not to question her.
She made it into the nursery to find the looking up at the mobile. Everyone joked that the twins were like their parents. Olivia had to admit it was true. Noe was like her. She could be hard to please if she wanted to take you there. If she didn't want to sleep or eat she would give you a fit. Nate was just like his daddy. He was easy-going and went with the flow. However he was protective of Noe. If she was upset sometimes he would join in. They sleep better together, but they were great kids.
Motherhood was everything to Olivia. Now that she had four children two of them biologically hers you saw this shift in her. Every decision was with them in mind.
Fitz always wondered how Olivia would change when she became a mother. He thought that he couldn't love her more, but he did. All four of the children were her life. Her heart only got bigger.
This was also Olivia's first week back resuming her First Lady duties. Marta took care of the twins, but she made sure to bring them down to see their parents each day, and the nanny cam was set up so they could look in on them whenever they wanted.
Her dad practically lived in the Residence with them, and they were okay with it. He was a complete softy now with the twins. Between his four grandchildren he was a goner. Olivia could tell that he was feeling guilty when the twins first came home.
One night she heard him talking to Noe and telling her how he enjoyed just looking at her because it was something that he didn't do with her mommy.
She walked in and kissed his forehead, "We can't get that time back dad. We both wish we could, but this is your do over. With your grandchildren. All four of them. You can have your gun ready with Fitz when it is time for Karen and Noe to date, and you can corrupt the minds of Teddy and Nate. That is how the past pain is erased. We don't repeat the same mistakes okay."
Rowan nodded, "Okay Livvie"
She walked out and allowed him to spend time with the children. When she walked back in the room Fitz opened his arms. She climbed in his lap.
"I know that it is much harder than it sounded for you to say what you did. I know that you meant it, but I know that it is also hard. I'm proud of you. I always told you that I loved you for you and I do, but I love this version of Olivia so much more. You see the value in life and living life. Living in the moment. Your mom would be so proud of you not only for the person, wife, and mother you are, but for really forgiving your dad. Making sure that he has peace because that is a hard thing to do. Something even I couldn't accomplish."
Olivia smiled as she was getting dressed thinking about everything. Although she had not lost all of the baby weight she didn't gag when she looked at herself in the mirror. That was probably because of her husband. Over the last six weeks he did everything he could to satisfy her needs without actually having sex. When he came in with toys one night she thought she would die until he put them to great use. He had let her take care of him sometimes, but not nearly the frequency that he took care of her.
She had been cleared by Dr. Jerome the day before. The next couple of days were hectic, and she didn't want their first time to be rushed and hectic. When he came in that night she asked if they could wait until they could spend some quality time with each other. Suprisingly he agreed and wasn't disappointed. It threw her.
Fitz smiled, "I love when we make love because it is more than sex, and I do miss being one with you. I agree I don't want to rush, and I want to know that I have hours to explore and reconnect with you. Now is not that time, and I always told you that I am in love with you. Sex doesn't define our relationship."
She kissed him in appreciation and hugged him.
Olivia had decided on a Carolina Herrera Three-Quarter Sleeve Bubble Jacquard Royal Blue Shirtdress with a pair of Jimmy Choo Abel Pointed Toe-Patent Black Pump.
For the twins Fitz actually picked their outfits. When Olivia saw them she smiled. Noe was wearing an Anavini Velani Baby Girls Royal Blue Gingham Smocked Flags Patriotic Bubble Dress and Nate was in a Anavini Velani Baby Boys Royal Blue Gingham Smocked Flags Patriotic Overalls.
Fitz not to be outdone was in a Dolce & Gabbana Dark Blue Martini Extra Trim Fit Three-Piece Suit.
The interview was being done in three parts. A sit down with the couple, the introduction of the children, and a third which was a surprise to the couple.
The couple went into the sitting room and greeted Kimberly and got miced up. Once everything was ready to go Kimberly began.
KM: Good evening. Tonight I have the privilege to sit down with the President and First Lady who six weeks ago welcomed their first children together in the world. On August 31st Noelle Carolyn Grant and Nathaniel Gerry were born. A little bit later the world will see the twins for the very first time, but for now let's catch up with the President and First Lady.
Kimberly turned and faced the couple
KM: President and First Lady Grant I feel like we are friends. First of all congratulations on the arrival of the twins. We are glad that you and the twins are happy and healthy. How does it feel to have biological children together?
OG: I would say that it has made us really appreciate everything a little bit more. Karen & Teddy are our worldas much as Noe and Nate, but with Noe & Nate who are a part of the both of us so for me it makes being a mother even more special. I love all four of them. They are all different.
KM: How so?
FG: Well Karen who is the oldest is like her mom as far as her being a go-getter. She loves trying new things and hates to fail. If she does she is just going to keep trying until she gets it right. Teddy is really like the both of us. He is a reserved, but enjoys a challenge. Noe is all her mom. She can be stubborn, quiet, loving, and funny all at the same time. That is her mom. Nate is like me. He follows to the beat of his sister. Poor guy is probably going to get into some trouble behind Noe.
They all laugh.
OG: I want to say that he is wrong, but he isn't. Nate is very laid back. He will wait to be fed and changed but not Noe. If she acts up then he will do just out of solidarity. It is the greatest annoying feeling I have ever had, but I wouldn't trade them for anything. Unfortunately not being Teddy & Karen's biological mother I didn't get to enjoy that time in their life so with us having children together I get to enjoy those moments as a mother.
KM: Speaking of Karen & Teddy how has the adjustment been since the twins have come into the world?
OG: It has been the greatest joy that I have ever experienced as a mother watching them bond and grow together. They love them and the twins love their siblings. They are protective of them and take their role as the older siblings seriously. We couldn't be happier and their oldest brother is in heaven watching over all of us.
KM: Mrs. Grant you resumed your First Lady role this week. Was it hard to return back to work?
OG: It was hard at times, but their grandparents are with them so I am comfortable. Their Nana installed a Nanny cam so we can peak in on them whenever we want. We don't have a lot of time left in office. There is still a lot work to be done, and I have a responsibility to see it through. My daughter has worked hard the last couple of months with me to try to create change, and I want to see our projects through and set the groundwork for our foundation when we leave.
KM: President Grant, the birth of your twins was historical for more reasons that one. Your wife and daughter have been tireless in their efforts to cast a light on equality of all kinds. How do you feel?
FG: (He grabbed his wife's hand and smiled) I truthfully could not be more proud of both of them. Olivia showed Karen that she has a voice even as a teenager and that it matters, and I hope that it will allow other teenagers of all races and creed understand that their voice matters to. They may not be able to vote, but their voice can lend a voice to create change and those of who can vote or make that change happen will pay attention. Olivia & Karen are a prime example that family is not DNA, it is not about race, or sexual preference. It is about love and acceptance. Karen hasn't change. My wife just showed her that she mattered. I support not only my family, but all families who don't fit into societies norm. We as a society have to change that. There is no law or rule that says families are all black, all white, all Hispanics, a man and a woman, upper and middle class. That is what we have created so we need to change it so we can stop saying that black and interracial children are making history.
KM: Thank you Mr. President. Well after the commercial break the wait is over. We will finally get to meet Nathaniel and Noelle.
During he commercial break they left and made their way to the nursery where the twins were sitting with Christina & Amelia. It was a little shocking to see them and not Marta or Rowan, but they went along. It wasn't like they were strangers.
KM: So if you are just tuning in we are about to show the world the twins of President and Mrs. Grant. Mrs. Grant I really love the nursery. They room reminds me of royalty. Was that the direction you were going in?
OG: It was. I found the room online. It was my top choice and my husband and daughter surprised me with the room. I love it. They seem to enjoy what it has to offer other than they like being together more than apart, but they spent nine months together so I can understand.
KM: Okay well the moment has come. May you present the honor of introducing Nathaniel and Noelle?
The couple grabbed the twins
FG: In my arms is our son Nathaniel and we all call him Nate. He is growing leaps and bounds and is eight pounds now.
OG: I have our daughter Noelle who we call Noe. She is almost eight pounds, but she is the boss.
KM: I love the outfits. They are so patriotic.
OG: I love them to, and their daddy gets all the credit. Despite being the President of the United States he is a very hands on dad. I have learned that if my husband can do it any parent can balance a job and be a good parent.
KM: Well they are the cutest little things I have seen in a long time. I am not around babies often. Are they usually this well-mannered?
OG: They are. Unless they want something. Nate is patient, but Noe will make it known. They are content babies. We are lucky.
KM: You are. I want to thank you for taking the time to sit down with me and introducing the twins to the world. If everyone sticks around in about 30 minutes I will be live with the President and First Lady. Stay tune.
They went to commercial. Fitz & Olivia were confused. Tom walked in with their coats and Olivia's purse.
Kimberly smiled, "Your daughter has something that she would like for you to see.".
Olivia smiled and nodded. Fitz grabbed her hand and they made it to the car that was waiting for them. Kimberly left a few minutes before them.
Olivia looked at Fitz, "You don't know what is going on?"
"I don't. Whatever it is that she has done she did it without the both of us, and surprisingly I am not nervous at all."
Olivia laughed, "I was thinking the same thing."
A few minutes later they pull up to National Park. Tom received communication to bring the couple out.
Five minutes later the couple were standing at the bottom of the steps to a stage that their daughter was standing in the middle of. They looked out and saw their family.
Karen began to speak, "I hope that you are all having a good time. This event is being broadcast live by BBC. Kimberly Mitchell who is one of their lead reporters and a very trustworthy reporter helped me to put this event together. There is a family on their way here, and they were the inspiration. When my brother and sister were born the Williams family was interviewed. Their daughter talked about how our family has helped her not be bullied so much because her family was different. I was bothered by the fact that she was told that her family was different. My biological mother wasn't my legal mother Olivia Grant is my family. She is more than my mother she is my mom. As a society we have to stop defining everything. It bothers me that society would rather accept my white mother who kidnapped me and shot my mom be considered a norm versus a mom who loves me and would give her life for any of children is not normal because she is black and my dad is white. If we stop defining everything people would feel free to love, and when people feel free to love and live then life is so much better. No need to kill or harm themselves or others. That is why this event specifically caters to families, and I don't mean the ones that society defines. We have interracial families, different faith families, same gender families, age different families, and young adult families. Why? Because this is the real world. There is nothing wrong with these families like there is nothing wrong with an all-white or an all-black family. There is plenty for you to enjoy. All types of foods and snacks, games, photo booths, rides. All for free. By the end of tomorrow I will post a list of all of the vendors that provided their support for tonight and my family and I encourage you to support them. I couldn't have done this without the support of my parents, and I'm sure everyone would like to see their faces so please welcome my mom and dad AKA the President and First Lady of the United Sates."
Olivia had started crying somewhere in the middle of the speech. Fitz gave her his handkerchief. He was trying to remain strong, but he was also unbelievably proud of Karen.
The couple came on stage and they shared a very long embrace. It allowed Kimberly time to make it to the stage.
After the family pulled apart Karen went over and hugged her.
Kimberly spoke, "When Karen called me with her idea I thought it was genius. I have to admit I was nervous that someone so young wanted to put together something so massive, but her idea worked. She wanted to surprise her parents. They didn't know about this event till a couple of minutes ago. Karen along with the help of her friends, students, teachers at her school, her family, along with my team and I reached out to the families that are here. Many are local but some have come from all over the United States to be a part of this moment. Our hope is down the road this is no longer a moment but the norm. There is one family in particular that is here that the family is excited to meet. That is the Williams family that was interviewed on Anderson Cooper's show. He is about to bring the family out. For those of you that didn't capture the story Allison was being bullied because she has an interracial family. Allison is white and her mother is black. Once the First Family did their interview things got better for her. They don't know, but they are about to meet the family. They don't know but President Grant & Mrs. Grant personally paid for their trip here out of their personal accounts before any tax payers ask. So let's bring them out."
A few minutes later the family came on stage where they were met with the First Family. It was an emotional moment, and many felt like it was a reunion of a family who had never met or hadn't seen each other in a long time.
Allison was shaking, but Karen held her and assured her that she was fine. It was a historical moment for the administration.
After a long thunderous applause Fitz stepped back letting Olivia know this was her moment. He was supporting her. Olivia made it to the podium. She looked for Karen. She opened her hand and she came over.
After the crowd calmed down she spoke, "Since this was a surprise I don't have a speech prepared which for me is a little scary. However as I look out at the crowd I could not be more proud to be the First Lady of the United States. I could not be more proud of my daughter if I tried."
The crowd cheered. Once they calmed down Olivia continued.
"When I look down I am looking at what our country looks like. Not what some want it to look like, but that's not the point. I think it is important to understand that racism is not just a black and white thing or a white and another ethnicity. I believe that in order for our country to achieve racial equality it starts within our own race. If a white person lives in a lower class area, drives a pick-up truck, and lives in a trailer they are a redneck. Blacks like to define others by the shade of their skin. If you are too dark you are ugly. Hispanics differentiate between Mexicans, Puerto Ricans, etc. Don't ever make the mistake of confusing them you will receive a tongue lashing. We have to learn to accept each other. When I wake up in the morning I now wake up to four children. My husband and I love our children differently. Not because two are white and two are mixed, but they are different children with different needs. My daughter doesn't wake up and look at me as her black mom and my husband as her white dad. She wakes up with knowledge that her parents love her. There is nothing we won't try to do and protect her. It was why I was shot. We are supposed to be the land of the free, but the truth is we are not all free. The fault lies with all of us. We have to work together for the greater good. I hope tonight this is a start towards that common goal. Enjoy yourselves and God Bless the United States of America."
Olivia and Karen hugged for some time. Each shed tears and Olivia whispered something that only she could hear.
They spent some more time with the Williams before they left to enjoy the evening. The family made it down with their detail and were able to interact with some of the families there. They talked and took tons of pictures. It was a great evening.
The family made it back to the Residence where Noe & Nate were sleeping. They would need to be fed in two hours.
The couple enjoyed a nice long intimate shower together. They didn't have sex, but satisfied each other in other ways.
After the twins were fed and put back down they made it to their bed. They were exhausted but still on this high.
For the first time they turned on the news. They watched as the reporter recounted their evening. There was plenty of gushing on the babies and talk of the event that Karen put together to the family meeting the Williams. It seemed that eight of the ten top trends on twitter had something to do with them.
After commercial break the reporter had spoken with several representatives on the hill. Fitz was surprised to see the amount of support they had across the aisle, but that was not the biggest surprises. Sen. Rand Paul who took every chance to throw a cheap shot at Fitz was surprisingly humble and supportive of the event. They knew that it had a little to do with the optics, but it was what he said next that made them realize it wasn't all optics.
Sen Paul said, "I am the first to admit that I have questioned President's Grant personal life. Many think and have accused me of being racist because I was supportive of the President when he was married to Mellie Grant. I still deny that I was being racist to the current Mrs. Grant, but I can admit that I was biased and didn't give her the fair chance that she deserved. Watching their daughter tonight allowed me to put things in perspective. Not only that I respect the First Lady for speaking out on all types of racism, and not the society norm of black and white. I don't expect the support of the President as I make my run, but I will say that if I am elected I will not allow all the hard work that this family has done go to waste. I am more conservative, but I believe in equality."
They were shocked. They needed to some to recover from those comments.
Olivia said, "I can't believe but I can believe she pulled it together. Everyday I understand a little more why mothers feel like motherhood is the best job ever. Those families tonight were happy. They made friends. I don't think even she realizes the impact she has made."
"Well she has that honestly too because Livvie I don't think you realize the impact that you have made for years. You opened up that door and like you she ran with it. Yes, I am so proud of our daughter. She will be in the history books, but I am equally proud of her mom who started the conversation."
"I never wanted to be First Lady. I told myself that I would be ornamental like Mellie despite the fact that you told me that would never be me. I am glad I stopped running. This has been the best ride of my life so far."
"Me to baby. May I ask what you said to Karen or was that meant for the two of you."
Olivia sat up. Tears immediately came to her eyes. Fitz tried to apologize, but she shook her head.
"I told her that her brother was looking down on her, and would be extremely proud of the young woman she was becoming. I told her that I loved her and knew that she was destined to do great things with her life, and we would be there to support her every step of the way. I also reminded her that she was enough, and my only expectation for her and her siblings was for them to be happy and find their own greatness."
Fitz smiled, "Good"
The next day was another busy day for the family. The Williams family made it to the White House where they were given an exclusive tour. They were able to meet several members of their administration. They took a lot of pictures.
Anderson Cooper was given exclusive access as well to report. Olivia looked simple but elegant in her Alexander McQueen Flutter Sleeve V-Neck Red Crepe Dress that she paired with her Jimmy Choo heels.
As a surprise not only to the Williams but to Anderson they were introduced to the twins who were brought down to the Oval Office.
It was the cutest thing because you could tell they knew they were in their parent's arms. The best moment took place when Fitz had both twins in his arms and he was talking to them, and they would coo back. It was like they were the only ones in the room, and Anderson made sure to capture it so the world could see not only was Fitz a great President, but a loving and devoted father. He was surprised to see they had no nannies. Everyone was either their family or friend. They took care of their children. The FIrst Lady was an excellent multi-tasker. She could switch from mom to First Lady and back without blinking.
They had two panel discussions at the White House that Karen and Olivia had put together discussing interracial families. One panel featured the President & First Lady, the Williams, Halle Berry, Dwayne Johnson (AKA The Rock), Olivia Munn, Alicia Keys, and members from the Diversity Foundation. They discussed a wide array of topics from growing up in an interracial household to living in a society that said they were different because they were more than one race.
The second panel consisted of children and teenagers who discussed their struggles. The panel included Karen, Allison, Robert De Niro's children, Evan Ross, and members from the Biracial Family Network.
After the panels they all sat down for dinner and conversation. It was a great time. Many could not believe how down to earth the President and First Lady were. They noticed that the staff seemed laid back as well. They enjoyed working for the Grants.
Karen was praised by everyone for the work she was doing with her mom. They were responding to social media posts everyday. The entire family was involved and Olivia & Karen would be going on the road in a month to promote their "Equal Love Campaign".
It was clear that this family was not slowing down, and would use every moment they had to create change. The whole country was on this ride. All you could do was buckle up.
A/N-We are getting close to the end of their time in the White House. Two more chapters. I am still undecided how many chapters I am going to write post White House.
Other than adoption you can obviously see where my other passions fall. I am even more excited after seeing the First Lady, Kerry, and Sarah Jessica Parker on the next cover of Glamour where they are set to reveal a new initiative that is believed to be about military women and wives. In the meantime I am creating my own in fiction with real initiatives. These issues are real and I respect that they are not everyone's opinion. My stories so I get to share my opinions, hopes, and dreams.
FYI-Although the next chapter kind of picks up where this one left off by the end there will be a significant time jump.