Chapter 48: One Track Mind
A/N: There will be no update next week. I just wanted to give everyone a heads up. My plan is to update the final chapter of NEH :) Xo
"The greatest act of courage is to be and own all that you are. Without apologies. Without excuses & without any masks to cover the truth of who you are or who you love" ~Unknown
The streets of New York City were busy and Olivia checked her watch for the second time. She decided last minute to meet Rus and his brother for a late lunch before she headed back to work. The photographer was in town from LA and wanted to personally deliver the wedding photos she asked him to print on her and Fitz's behalf.
Her schedule was hectic this past week and to top it all off, arrangements had been made for Fitz's parents to fly in later that evening. They chose to meet on a Sunday since her show ended early on Sunday, giving them a perfect opportunity to have dinner together at a decent hour. The only contact Olivia had with her parents thus far was with her father, Eli. He assured his daughter they looked forward to celebrating her nomination and would gladly meet them for dinner that night.
When Rus called, she hesitated at first on having lunch but decided last minute to sneak away. The truth was she couldn't wait to see the photographs and she also wanted to see Rus. He had become a close friend and sounded a bit different on the phone. Something inside felt off and she wanted to make certain all was well with the talented photographer.
The cafe on 8th street was a perfect suggestion and when she entered both brothers waved hello. They were seated at a large table towards the back and several large packages were resting against a wall that instantly grabbed her attention. Butterflies set in at the thought of finally seeing their wedding photos. She tried her best to stay professional and hugged both men as she sat down, purposely not giving the items on the wall any more attention.
Mason was first to speak, thanking Olivia for joining them. He took one of the boxes and handed it to Olivia before motioning the waiter over. Olivia ordered a Greek salad and as soon as they were alone again she opened the sealed package.
Inside were the proofs of the photoshoot in Florida. Overall they came out much better than she could've hoped for but she was more interested in Rus's opinion. He had been unusually quiet and she couldn't shake the feeling something was indeed going on with him.
For the next few minutes they chatted about the proofs and Mason eagerly explained the magazines top three selections. Olivia personally liked the photograph of her wearing the white bikini best and it was certainly in the top three. Once Mason placed the photos back inside the box, Rus grabbed the largest package and handed it to Olivia. The waiter returned with their drinks and again Olivia waited for them to be alone before opening what was in her hands.
Inside was a fairly large portrait of her and Fitz walking hand in hand down the beach after their ceremony. The picture was taken from behind and you could see their footprints in the sand. It had been professionally framed for her, ready to be hung on a wall and tears sprung her eyes at its beauty.
"Congratulations, Olivia. We're both really happy for you."
It was the real first words Rus had spoken to her and she stood and went around the side of the table to formally thank her friend.
"This is so beautiful, Russell. A thousand thank-you's. This means so much to me. I've been wanting to see this so badly."
Rus stood and hugged Olivia, taking a smaller package against the wall and handing it over. She took her time studying the photograph of them on the beach, examining every detail. The fact Janice captured such a pure moment was beyond anything she could've hoped for. Both Fitz and Olivia were looking at one another and smiling, their profiles beyond elated. Her bouquet was in her right hand at her side and it was such a perfect angle. It was clear even to the average eye the flowers Olivia had in her hand were blue tulips.
Both brothers remained quiet until the waitress once again returned, this time with their food. She hurriedly placed the portrait back into its protective cover, making room on the table for their plates. The smaller packages remained on the floor and she encouraged Rus and Mason to begin eating. She wanted to see everything before tackling her salad and didn't hesitate in opening the last box.
Inside were a few more photos of their wedding along with some photos of her and Fitz in LosAngeles. Some were in black and white and her mouth gaped open at how incredibly sexy they both looked together. There were six photographs in all and Fitz was looking at Olivia in nearly every single one. He looked smitten and desperately in love and Olivia couldn't contain her excitement over them.
Her favorite was a photo of her arms around Fitz's neck. It was obvious they had just kissed because Olivia's lipstick was smeared all over his lips. Fitz was actually looking straight into the camera while Olivia looked directly at him. His demeanor oozed with confidence shouting to the world this woman was most definitely his.
When she finally looked up at the brothers she realized they both were nearly finished eating. Embarrassment quickly set in and she reluctantly put the photos back into its envelope. When she finally got started on her salad, Rus spoke again letting her know they would drop the photographs off at her condo. The gesture was incredibly kind and she thanked them profusely for even thinking that far ahead. Uncomfortable silence began to settle in and she couldn't help herself any longer. Something was definitely weird between her and Russell and she wanted to get to the bottom of it.
"What's going on- it's not like you to be so quiet. Are you okay?"
Her question was directed towards Rus and he blushed at the comment, looking at Mason and shaking his head in the process.
"I'm good, Olivia." He cleared his throat and continued, explaining there was indeed a reason they wanted to both meet with her in person.
"We have a business proposition for you," Mason explained, chiming in.
Olivia's eyes shot up in surprise and eagerly waited for them to continue.
"We have a script we want you to read. We both think you'd be perfect for the part."
Olivia's eyes widened even more and before she could interject with questions, Mason held up his hand further explaining their intentions.
"Rus and I have been wanting to do a movie together for some time. We have a small budget to work with and a few other people - all unknowns - who've committed to the project. We just want you to read the script. That's all we're asking."
Mason handed Olivia a large envelope she hadn't seen that rested next to his chair. She quickly unsealed the back and read the cover, the name of the film quickly jogging her memory.
The Burning Bed
Screenplay written by Mason Miles
"It's a remake?" The question was directed to both brothers.
"It is. The premise is essentially the same with a few necessary changes."
"I remember this. It was originally a book, right?" The bothers nodded and further explained more about their idea.
"Yes, it's a book and was made into a TV movie in the 80's. I've been working on this a long time and when Rus met you in LA he called to let me know you would be perfect for the lead."
Olivia's mind began to spin and couldn't wrap her head around why they would think she of all people would be perfect for a part like this. From what she remembered, the main character was a victim of domestic abuse, something she had absolute zero experience portraying. She didn't want to be rude to the brothers so she hesitantly agreed to read the script, placing the envelope inside her bag. When she finally returned back to eating her salad, she inquired what role Rus played in the development of the film.
"I'm going to direct. Since we were little, that was always the plan. Mason would write, I would direct-"
"Yet you both became photographers?" Olivia interrupted, pointing out the obvious.
"Photography has been good to us. And we've made a decent living," Rus quickly countered. "But it's served it purpose. We're ready to move on. And I think you are too."
Olivia inhaled and set her fork down, pausing for a moment. Hearing those words coming from someone else really sunk in and left an impression. Her head began to slightly ache and she pushed her plate aside, unsure of how to respond. All of this was a great detail to process...
Fitz arrived at the theater right on time and waited for Olivia outside in the car as promised. They needed to get going in order to make it to the restaurant before their guests arrived and Fitz checked his cell to see if anyone contacted him. Last he heard from his parents they were planning on resting for a bit before meeting them for dinner that evening. It was good to have them back in the city and he honestly couldn't wait to see them.
Marisa never returned his call and he wasn't even certain if his own sister knew his parents were in town. It saddened him knowing he wasn't on speaking terms with his sibling but he refused to feel bad about it. His marriage to Olivia was sacred and nothing or no one was going to make him feel otherwise.
Olivia eventually appeared from the side entrance and made her way across the street towards Fitz's Audi. She was dressed in a black pencil skirt with matching high heels and looked as elegant as ever. Her blouse was a turquoise blue and he couldn't help but smile at her color selection.
Fitz walked around to open her door when she finally reached the car. She kissed him hello on the lips and slipped into the passenger seat without saying another word. It took Fitz no time to ease back into traffic and Olivia turned to face him eager to share about her lunch with Rus and Mason.
He listened closely to the photographers proposition and was completely taken back by their offer. He met both men at the two different photoshoots and was pleasantly surprised to hear they were both eager to get into the film industry. Olivia also seemed taken back by their offer and he had to admit he was shocked she wasn't focused on their impending dinner with her parents. It's all he could think about all day but it was clear Olivia was focused on other things.
"I read a little in between rehearsals this afternoon and so far it's really good. I'm just not sure I'm the best choice for this role. I mean the woman is physically and verbally abused, Fitz...it would be unlike anything I've ever done."
"Well, they obviously see something in you they want, Liv. How soon do they need an answer?"
"They just asked I read the script. They didn't really give me a timeframe. Will you read it when I'm done? I want your opinion."
"Mine? Are you sure?" His voice was clearly shocked.
"Yes! I want your opinion. I actually would also love my mothers..." Her voice fell off at the last few words and Fitz turned to look in her direction.
"Everything will be okay...eventually."
Olivia chuckled at the comment and looked out the window. She appeared to be deep in thought and Fitz rubbed the top of her thigh in comfort hoping to ease any worry.
"My father will be hurt the most. That's what kills me."
Fitz squeezed his hand on her leg and couldn't disagree with her statement. Eli would definitely take this the hardest. And that in turn would affect Olivia most. It was a difficult predicament to be in but he knew deep down things would turn out okay between their parents.
Positive thinking continued in Fitz's mind until they reached the restaurant. Olivia grabbed Fitz's hand and linked fingers with him, finally looking into his direction when he turned off the ignition. Her wedding ring slightly caught some light and the sparkle was evident grabbing both of their attention.
"I just want this out and in the open, Fitz. I don't regret anything."
Her confession was a breath of fresh air and the best type of attitude to have going into this dinner. Fitz leaned over and kissed her lips several times until he finally let go of her hand and eased out of the car. He opened her door, just as he always did and proudly held her close as they faced this new journey together.
The walk from the parking garage to the restaurant was a short one and they both stood tall walking confidently inside. As planned, they were the first to arrive and the hostess guided them to a secluded area in the back. It was similar to the one used for Fitz's birthday party and Olivia loved the privacy. The restaurant itself was dark and quaint and also known for its homemade Italian food. The menu itself was quite expensive and a place hand-picked by Fitz to bring their parents to. It was also fairly close to their condo and it surprised her they hadn't eaten here together before now.
Their waiter was a young gentleman and quickly offered Olivia a wine menu to look over. As soon as drinks were ordered he disappeared and they both opened their menus to take a look at the entree options. Faint Italian music could be heard in the background and Fitz leaned over and softly kissed his bride on the cheek.
"You look beautiful, Mrs. Grant."
"Are you flirting with me?"
Her reply was seductive and it immediately eased any and all tension in the room. Fitz smiled against her skin and Olivia touched his cheek kissing it affectionately. Neither of them noticed when her parents entered the room until Eli greeted both of them hello, interrupting their intimate moment together. He had roses in his hand and Olivia immediately rose to her feet and hugged her father hello and kissed her mother on the cheek. They were both quick to congratulate Olivia on her Tony nomination and it was evident they could not have been more proud of their daughter.
Eli was first to acknowledge Fitz and he stood to shake his father-in-laws hand. They discussed work for a few minutes while Maya sat down next to Olivia and looked over the menu. She was quiet but polite and commented on how wonderful Olivia looked. Moments later the hostess walked in Gerald and Helen and they too had flowers for Olivia. She blushed at the attention and if anyone notified her wedding ring, no one said anything. The room itself was dimly lit and Olivia wondered if that also had something to do with why Fitz chose this particular venue.
The Grants were bubbly and warm and eagerly greeted their son hello. Fitz hugged both of them and welcomed them back to the city, thanking them for making the trip. Helen shared how excited she was when the official announcement was made and they were both hoping some type of celebration would be arranged in Olivia's honor.
Maya and Eli were cordial and Olivia was glad to see everyone so comfortable with one another. When everyone finally took their seats,
Fitz motioned for the waiter who was quick to pour everyone a generous amount of wine. Olivia handed another waiter her flowers who was kind enough to put them in water for her. Once everyone had their glasses filled, Fitz stood and proposed a toast asking everyone to raise their glass.
"We're so proud of you, Olivia," he began looking down at his wife. "You have achieved so much and I think it's safe to say everyone is rooting for you to win another Tony. You certainly deserve it."
Olivia's eyes began to water and she forced herself not to cry when everyone clinked glasses in her honor. It was an incredible feeling to have these people in the same room and before Fitz sat down, she also stood and began sharing a few words.
"Thank you to everyone for believing in me. But this dinner tonight is about so much more than receiving a Tony nomination."
She looked at Fitz in the eyes, signaling to him she wanted to be the one to share the news. It took him slightly by surprise but he didn't interject, simply sliding his hand around her waist in support of what she was about to share.
"Something happened last week...and that is the real reason we wanted you all here today. You know when I first met Fitz, I knew he was the man I had waiting my entire life for. Everyday I've spent with him that feeing has intensified."
She paused and looked at Fitz who was obviously emotional. His eyes were glossy and it was apparent he had no idea Olivia was planning on saying such beautiful things. She continued what she wanted to say before she lost all nerve as if she subconsciously wanted to rip the bandaid off so they could get over the pain it was likely to cause.
"We wanted you here today to share we were married last Saturday in a private ceremony off the coast in Florida."
Helen gasped loudly at the revelation and that's when Olivia began to openly cry, allowing her feelings to finally spill over.
"Marrying this man was the single greatest decision I've ever made."
Silence engulfed the room- to the point you could hear a pin drop and it seemed as if everyone was too stunned to say anything. Fitz set his glass of wine down and hugged Olivia trying to hold back his own tears. Out of the corner of his eye he saw Eli equally emotional and he was the first to stand and walk towards his daughter.
"Please don't hate me, Daddy."
It was the only thing Olivia could get out of her mouth and she literally through herself into Eli's arms, mentally begging him not to be upset with her.
"Don't be silly," he whispered. His voice cracked several times which only made Olivia cry even more. "Congratulations to both of you...I know you were the most beautiful bride."
His words were painful for Fitz to hear as he imagined what it would feel like if their own daughter eloped without telling them. Helen and Gerald were next to stand, both equally happy for their son.
"Well this explains why I can't reach your sister. She must already know."
Helen smiled at her son, her voice also cracking with emotion. If she was feeling any animosity about not being included she didn't say anything aloud.
"Marisa knows, Mom. And she's really hurt. We haven't spoken to her since I told her." He included the we because Olivia had also tried to reach out with no luck.
Gerald hugged his son and kissed Olivia on the cheek, officially welcoming her into their family.
"I've always wanted another daughter."
His words made Olivia cry even more and Fitz squeezed his father's shoulder with gratitude. It was a lovely statement and he knew his father meant every word. Both Helen and Gerald took their time hugging Olivia and Fitz, congratulating them and asking some questions about the ceremony. Maya remained seated, her face stoic and reserved and neither of them were surprised by her reaction.
Everyone eventually took their seats as the next wave of uncomfortable silence took the room over. A relief could be felt from both Olivia and Fitz and he signaled to the waiter who quickly came over to take everyone's food order. It was a welcome distraction and Olivia reached over to grab her father's hand once he was done speaking to the waiter. She purposely ignored Maya who was still sitting right next to her and focused solely on her father.
He squeezed her hand back and forced a smile even though you could still see the painful anguish all over his face.
The time spent until the food was served was at times awkward and Olivia wished she would have shared the news later to help pass the time. Helen and Gerald inquired the most about Florida and they offered as many details as possible. Olivia invited them over tomorrow to the condo to look at their photos and apologized for not thinking to bring them to the restaurant. Fitz wasn't even aware they were in and he was glad to hear he would get a chance to see them before everyone else.
They eventually discussed their plan to have a reception once there home was complete and Helen was quick to share they would love to fly back for the celebration. Her face seemed sad although she was beyond courteous and Olivia deep down wondered if she was keeping her real feelings to herself. Fitz seemed to be content with his parents reaction and she didn't read any more into Helen's demeanor.
Despite the incredible food, it seemed as if no one finished their dinner. Both Helen and Gerald tried to engage Maya in conversation but anything she replied to didn't last. Olivia refused to allow her mothers actions to affect her. She was prepared for this type of reaction and so was Fitz. He didn't engage her at all and that was unfortunately noticed by more than just Olivia.
Eventually the bill was delivered and Eli immediately took the black leather envelope from Fitz. He insisted on paying and wouldn't take no for an answer. Fitz finally caved and thanked Eli for his generosity. He could tell the gesture meant a lot to Olivia and she too was appreciative of his kindness. Once the check was signed, Olivia stood and thanked her parents once more for coming. She kissed them each goodbye before walking with Gerald and Helen, leaving her parents sitting at the table.
Fitz shook Eli's hand goodbye and touched Maya on the shoulder farewell. No words were exchanged between them and he wished things would've ended on a better note. When he caught up with Olivia she turned and suddenly realized she left her flowers. She excused herself and told Fitz she would be right back. He let her know he was going to walk his parents to their rental vehicle and get his car from the parking garage.
Olivia agreed to meet him in the front of the restaurant and made her way back inside. The second she grew in close proximity to the back room she could hear her father's deep voice. He was beyond angry and she froze at his words, leaning against a wall listening to what was being said. Her actions reminded her of when she was young and her parents would argue. She sometimes would stand at the top of the stairs eavesdropping on them.
This felt no different and her eyes grew wide with the accusation spoken towards Maya.
"THIS IS YOUR DOING! YOU did this! If it wasn't for YOU and your constant need to control! YOU pushed her away!
She heard her mother respond but couldn't quite make out the words. It appeared as if she was crying which surprised her even more. Maya rarely cried and it suddenly dawned on her it was her father who was lucky enough to see such emotion.
A waiter suddenly appeared out of nowhere and startled Olivia, asking her if there was anything she needed. She stepped away from the room and motioned for him to join, her asking if they could keep her flowers until she could make arrangements for them the next day. The manager soon appeared who apparently recognized Olivia assuring her they would make sure the flowers were delivered to any address she wanted them sent to. He congratulated Olivia on the Tony nomination and expressed his gratitude to her for choosing to dine in their establishment.
She decided to thank both gentlemen and not interrupt her parents, making her way back outside to meet Fitz. A hostess accompanied her and took down her information for the flower delivery while they waited for Fitz to pull up. Eli's words rang on a loop in her mind and she kept replaying exactly what she heard over and over again. She couldn't ever remember hearing her father so angry...
"These are so incredible."
Fitz was sitting upright in their bed, studying the photographs one by one as if he hadn't seen anything more beautiful in his entire life. They were spread all around his body with the exception of their wedding portrait which now hung up on the wall across from their bed.
Olivia was sitting upright next to Fitz reading the script Mason gave her at lunch. They spent most of the night trying to decide where to hang up their wedding photograph and once a location was agreed upon, they eagerly changed into more comfortable clothing and climbed into bed to relax. Olivia hadn't shared what she witnessed back at the restaurant between her parents, instead trying to focus on work.
She loved listening his reaction to the photographs and smiled every time he interrupted her reading.
"Jesus, look how beautiful you are."
Olivia looked at the picture Fitz was holding, setting the script down and scooting over towards his side of the bed. His glasses were on and she lovingly kissed the side of his face at how cute she found him. He wore his favorite nightly pajama bottoms with no shirt and had his legs crossed at the ankle. It was his nightly wardrobe regimen she had grown to love and before long, she ended up snuggling directly onto his lap.
Fitz placed the photo on the bed and took his glasses off so he could properly hug his wife. He buried his nose against her hair and inhaled her scent. She smelled a mixture of perfume and body wash and he couldn't get enough of her.
"You were really quiet in the car. Anything you want to talk about?" He spoke low and tried not to push.
"I heard my parents arguing," she confided. "On my way back to get the flowers, I heard my Dad. He blames my mom for us eloping."
"Wow, baby. I'm so sorry." Fitz was shocked to hear her confession and wished he could've spared her from that encounter.
"Did they know you were listening?" He was honestly curious.
"No, I didn't disturb them. The manager stopped me on my way out and was kind enough to have the flowers delivered. I'm sure they will be here in the morning."
"If it makes you feel any better, my Dad wasn't too pleased with me. He gave me an earful on our way to their car."
"An earful? About what?" She said up shocked at his words and wondered what in the world Gerald could be upset about.
"He didn't like that I didn't speak to Maya. And the more I've thought about it, the more I think he's right. She's your mother and I should've have avoided her."
Olivia rolled her eyes and plopped herself back against his chest baffled at the comment. Maya should be the one ashamed of her behavior- not anyone else. But she was too tired to make any sort of argument. Instead, she focused on Helen and decided to ask Fitz about her.
"What about your mom? Is she okay? She seemed to be holding back her feelings."
"My mom will come around. She is happy for us. I know she is. I just think she needs time. I'm not the youngest guy, Liv. I'm sure there was a point my parents didn't think I'd ever get married. But then you came along and I know she was deep down looking forward to us having a big wedding.
Olivia seemed satisfied with his explanation and thought for a moment, deciding to continue to share some more about her own parents.
"I heard my mother crying. I had no idea she was even capable of that emotion."
The words sounded odd coming out and she sat up again to face Fitz head on. He helped adjust her legs so they wrapped around his wait and they now sat eye to eye continuing to discuss dinner.
"Was your Dad right? Is she the reason you agreed to elope?"
Olivia thought for some time about the question and didn't know how to respond. She was still trying to process her father's reaction and honestly felt sorry for her mother when it came to that accusation.
"I agreed because I didn't want to wait. Not because of any other reason. I mean, my mom is a lot of things...but it's unfair to blame her. I know my Dad is hurting and I think he was just lashing out."
Fitz caressed her back and thought about her words. He simply didn't know what to make of Eli's accusation. He always was under the impression Maya wasn't the easiest person to live with but who was he to judge. No matter what, she WAS Olivia's mother and he wished he would've made more of an effort during their time together.
"You amaze me." Fitz kissed the corner of her mouth and watched her brown eyes grow wide at the complement.
"What you said about us getting married. I wasn't expecting that. I was planning on breaking the news to everyone myself."
Olivia smiled proudly and twisted her arms around the back of his neck, scratching his head exactly the way he liked.
"I have to keep you on your toes, Mr. Grant." Her words were playful and Fitz pressed her body firmly against his, cupping her bottom in the process.
"You focus on keeping me on my toes and I'll focus on keeping you satisfied in bed."
Olivia laughed loudly into the air and swatted him on the back at the crude comment. Hudson stirred at the noise and for a moment woke up long enough to make certain all was okay.
"You have such a one track mind," she scoffed against his neck.
Fitz was quick to reposition her body, laying her down on the bed next to him. His face was mischievous and a wide grin spread across his lips as he slowly began to lift Olivia's t-shirt up her body.
"Speaking of a one track mind, let's get you naked..."
