AN: Seems like I butchered Baby Nick's name at the end of last chapter, I blame it on staring at gifs of General Hospital's Nikolas Cassadine before posting lol. I also rewatched Boom Goes the Dynamite today to try to get a better feel for the Caldwell family before writing this chapter and my caption said the sister with all the substance abuse issues was Kay not Kate. I don't know if any of you care but for this story I'll continue calling her Kate. Thanks a million to those who continue to review and leave me the most thought provoking messages and words of encouragement in my inbox, I so enjoy and appreciate it all!
Chapter 49
"Going out of town again so soon?" Janice clucked in disbelief, her head swinging to and fro as she tried to keep up with her granddaughter's swift movements.
"Seems like it," Olivia replied succinctly.
"But you really only just got home, sweetheart. Are you sure that all this traveling back and forth is good for you and the baby?"
"It's fine. Nick is fine and I feel fine." Olivia assured her. "And I know. I know that it seems a bit much but this really can't be helped."
Vaguely clarifying the reasoning behind the abrupt change in her schedule, Olivia continually stalked between her closet and the bed loading her suitcase with clothing and other essentials before she started doing the same for Fitz.
"I see," the older woman crossed her arms. "Well everything's all right though, isn't it?"
"Things couldn't be better," she turned and smiled, "this is for work. At least it is for me."
"And Fitz? What's your husband going to be up to while you're out doing your job?
"He's very close with the family I'll be working with so it'll give him a chance to catch up; you know kick back, and hopefully relax and play with others for a change."
"All of that sounds nice but are you sure he even remembers how to do that? You've been the only playmate that man's had for a while now and we all can see just how much fun he's been having."
"Grammie!" Olivia's cheeks warmed with embarrassment.
"What child? Your belly's out to here and neither one of you can take one whole step without touching the other. If you didn't own the whole damn house I'd be telling you to go get a room somewhere. But it's good. It's healthy for you and your marriage."
"That's good to know because I promise you I've never felt...healthier in my life."
"I bet," Janice's eyes twinkled knowingly.
"Grammie come on. You're supposed to be helping me pack not distracting me with talk of my sex life. I really need to get into an entirely different mind frame here."
"Alright, I'm done," Janice chuckled and held up her hands in surrender. "Now, where are you off to again?"
"Tennessee." Olivia replied before focusing her attention on her wardrobe.
As she waded through various maternity options she detailed how the prominent clan had, for reasons unbeknownst to her, decided to lift their ban on any and all media interactions following the former attorney general's accident, miraculous recovery and subsequent rehab stint, to invite her to interview the entire family at their vast country estate.
"Are you sure you and Pop Pop don't want to come along for the ride? Besides there being multiple guest cottages on the property we could look into renting something or booking a room close to us if you'd prefer. How long has it been since you set foot in the South anyway?"
"Probably when we took you to see our old Alabama stomping grounds. You were ten, maybe eleven, I think."
"Geez." Olivia gasped. "So are you up for it or no?"
Janice shook her head. "I know what you're trying to do, baby, but no. You all have made it just too nice here for me to leave. Besides if I'm going anywhere Pop Pop and I will make our way back to D.C., which we need to do soon for many reasons."
"Really? Are you being serious right now?"
"Oh don't get dramatic, girl. We've got a house, friends, a church family and a whole lot of loose ends that have to be dealt with. And not to mention your mother is talking about blowing into town to check on that place she and your father bought. She just has to make sure those renovations are up to her highfalutin standards so we'll do some things with her if she shows up like she's claiming to."
"And if she shows up..."
"I know. In no uncertain terms is she allowed inside your home without you being present. Have you still not talked to her yet? I know she keeps asking about you."
"She's on the list. But for now, work."
"If that's the way you want it. So when are you two leaving?"
"Tomorrow afternoon barring any hiccups. It'll give Abs enough time to leave work, go back home for whatever and then get here before Karen and Gerry are dismissed from school."
Olivia huffed at Janice displeased grumbles. "Humor me, Grammie, please. I need someone that I trust to be here when I can't be. Even though she'll be staying and not just checking in on you guys like when were in Hawaii, I promise you she's not coming to babysit you or Pop Pop. She'll be here to get you anything you need and take the kids wherever they need to go when CiCi can't. It'll be fun. Abby's fun. And you like Abby and fun, remember"
"Well I guess as long as she doesn't get in my way and she brings another one of those cakes or makes one before she leaves well get along just fine."
"I'm sure we can ask her to see if she has the time. God knows if she does we won't have to twist her arm, she lives for the compliments that they bring her way.
Glimpsing the imposing bulletin board immediately upon entering Olivia's office and finding it plastered with faces of people he knew intimately forced Fitz to pause mid step and do a double take as he whistled. "Whoa! Now that's a lot to take in."
Looking up from the papers strewn about her desk Olivia released the pen she held a death grip on and glanced at the display that had captured Fitz' attention. "It is. Imagine how I feel trying to keep all the faces and the facts that belong with those faces straight. God, I pray that I can fend off pregnancy brain long enough so that it doesn't steal every bit of information I've learned or already knew about the Caldwell's."
"Don't beat yourself up, Livvie. The head count of the youngest generation alone makes my head swim and I've known the family for decades. I'm positive I'm godfather to at least a handful if not more."
Catching sight of the mischievous glint in his eyes she laughed. "Now you're just being ridiculous. Like you really don't know the names of each and every one of those kids whether you've pledged to look out for them or not."
"You know me well." He bent his head and kissed her lips. "Just thought I'd try a little humor and lighten the mood around you. Everything's going to be fine, Liv. You've got this."
"This is a mighty big damn deal, Fitz. The Caldwell's, every last one of them and me. With this added to my resume, I know that you know what this means for me and my career."
Smiling, his fingers grazed her chin and then squeezed her shoulders."I do and I couldn't be happier or prouder. That's why I don't want you obsessing to the point of worrying or forgetting to take the time to enjoy some of it. This is going to be an interview that will practically run itself or at least it would if you let it. Our relationship with them should take most of the pressure off all on its own. And then when you get down to business, you have Kate's ordeal to work with, the rumblings surrounding Pete and Will's political aspirations and there'll be an abundance of heartwarming family moments and anecdotes that will be witnessed and shared until you're positively nauseated."
Olivia exhaled as her hand ran along his thigh."No one will ever say that the Caldwell's didn't live life."
"And all of that doesn't even factor in some of the other scandals they've weathered. But if you happen to need more after all of that just ask; they're giving you free reign. Nothing's off limits, you can take the piece anywhere you want it to go."
She narrowed her eyes suspiciously. "Why so generous? Is it true that Peter and Will are going to make a push for our next Republican presidential ticket to read Caldwell/Caldwell? Are they taking a stab at transparency now to get out in front of any possibly hidden dirt? Are they expecting me to go easy on them because I'm your wife? Would it be crass if I brought up the whole Canadian mistress and bonus baby affair especially in light of the family's forgiveness of dear old dad and Daddy Caldwell's reconciliation with Mama Caldwell?"
Determined to remain impartial, Fitz sidestepped her intense inquiry; treating her to a bright smile and quick peck on the lips before cupping her face instead. "You see, more than a trio of questions right off the top of your head. And you were worried you'd lost your touch."
"Fitz-" she breathed his name with a hint of warning, the evasive tactics he attempted to employ riling her up.
"Livvie, I'm your husband. I'm your lover, your biggest supporter and best friend. I also try to honor your wishes when it comes to your work and in doing so I won't interfere with any of this. Treat them like strangers if you have to or use kid gloves in your approach if you prefer. Tackle them and everything about them however you see fit and you won't hear a peep out of me."
Fitz kissed the pout off of her lips and squeezed her shoulders again. "Now I've kept you long enough so I'll just leave you to it. But please dont try to pull an all nighter. You need your rest and we have a big day ahead of us. I know you'll be up at the crack of dawn to continue prepping and then we have the flight to get through. It's not a long one but a flight's a flight. And then by the time everyone else descends on that compound tomorrow night...when you're finished wrapping things up down there, I promise you dealing with Karen and Ger will seem as easy as breathing."
Heeding his warning while it dawned on her that he was actually leaving her alone, Olivia called after him as he steadily made his way to the door."Hey, you still didn't answer my questions. Fitz, Fitz...Fitzgerald Grant get back here!"
After he disappeared from sight without so much as turning around, Olivia screeched and hurled a pen at the doorway in frustration.
When Olivia's phone chimed for what felt like the millionth time since they had debarked, and continued to do so as they were escorted to the Caldwell estate, Fitz growled in annoyance; already certain of who was draining her phone of its life and him of his patience in the process.
Ever since Olivia had informed BNN of the Caldwell's offer to interview, Keegan Patrick had infected their sanctuary through numerous video chats, phone calls and texts that raised Fitz's blood pressure with each intrusion. "He's more than a little text happy isn't he? Just as chatty as a schoolgirl at a weekend sleepover."
Ignoring the sting to Fitz's words, Olivia read the message that awaited her and frowned, relaxing her pursed lips only to respond. "He keeps sending not so gentle suggestions teeming with points he wants me to make, subjects he would prefer I didn't forget to touch on. Here's also the updates on the crews arrival, their lodging and such. Apparently he's also still very shocked but as pleased as punch that they're opening the ranks and allowing media inside. Although he's positive that my connection to you was one of the deciding factors and their choosing me to boot and he just won't stop reminding me of it."
Fitz rolled his eyes and groaned. "Have I told you lately just how much I still loathe that ass clown?"
"Oh, baby, I know," she replied with a voice full of sympathy. "But can you at least try to put it on ice until we're back in New York? It's springtime in the country with some of your dearest friends, I want you to enjoy yourself. Can you do that for me please?"
He shrugged and sighed, applying an extra amount of effort to emphasize his discontent and need for her special brand of attention, lowering his voice as he spoke up. "Well it all depends on if you'll help me enjoy it or not."
"I'm positive that can be arranged. Do you have any ideas on how I can be of assistance?"
"I don't know, maybe start with a kiss." he mumbled innocently.
"Where?" She asked for clarification between laughing and throwing a nervous glance to their driver. When he pointed to his lips she agreed. "Consider it handled."
As she moved closer he placed his hands on her waist and stared at her mouth before meeting her eyes. "And I want a real one too, Livvie. Not the ones you give me when you're doing something else and are trying to get me to go away."
"Got it," she whispered.
After she grabbed the lapels of his jacket and pulled him closer she shifted and leaned in slowly; brushing, pressing and teasing her flesh against his before demonstrating that she was fully capable of supplying whatever he happened to be in need of.
As their car traveled the length of the intimidating driveway Olivia looked around and observed the lay of the land; meticulously groomed and shockingly green acre upon acre catching and holding her gaze for the longest time. The vibrant bursts of colorful flowers instantly called to mind her first time in Vermont and momentarily caused her to ache for the place that was so dear to her heart. As she returned to the present, she catalogued the positions of gleaming property after property and marveled at the main attraction. The crown jewel of estates stood proudly situated center mass for all to revere.
"It's nice huh?" Fitz commented as his fingers stroked her hand.
"Nice?" she replied incredulously. "Are you kidding me? It's a damn castle in the middle of the country! I can't believe all the Caldwell kids scattered from this place once they grew up. Because if it were me, I would have gone to college, obtained my degree and came right back home to squat for eternity."
"Well they all still spend a lot of time here when they can; holidays, vacations birthdays, fundraisers and the like."
"Fundraisers of course. But to answer your question I guess you can say it's nice. It's nice that the Caldwell's found an architect who loved Dallas just as much as they obviously do. This place reminds me of Southfork on steroids."
"Yeah," he laughed. "Now that you mention it does. When you meet Mitch and Patricia open with that. They'll get a kick out of your first impression of their not so humble abode."
"Fitz Grant, you sneaky bastard. Going off to make yourself a real life without any of us being the wiser."
Smiling at the sound of Peter's voice, Fitz finished helping Olivia from the backseat before turning his attention to his friend. While the men shook hands, hugged and dove straight into a full blown conversation, their wives exchanged a warm and friendly greeting of their own before following suit; discussing the obvious changes in their lives since they last saw each other.
Keenly aware that any given discussion between the politicians could last for hours on end, Marian placed a hand on her husband's back and rubbed circles in hopes of being noticed. "Honey, where are your manners? You haven't even said hello to Olivia or given me the chance to do the same to Fitz."
His facial expression apologetic, Peter bowed his head and moved towards Olivia, grasping her hand in his as he placed a kiss on her cheek. "Forgive me. Congratulations on everything and thank you for agreeing to do this."
"Of course, no problem. And thank you."
Treating her to a lazy grin, Peter took it upon himself to put Olivia at ease."In case you haven't heard I have to warn you that we're a very large and very rowdy bunch, so I apologize in advance if it gets a little out of hand. And we take pride in corrupting our Fitzy here and then sending him home all distinguished and normal like. But if it gets to be a too much for you don't hesitate saying so, we can take it. Most of us are an acquired taste; except for Mom, Marian and myself. Everyone loves me, don't they Marian?"
"You know it, dear." She said with a pat to his arm.
After his wife agreed, Peter removed his wallet retrieved a bill and placed it in her hands; the gesture immediately garnering a robust round of laughter.
"And he'll be here all week," Marian added jovially.
Still laughing, Peter pulled his wife close and nuzzled her cheek before kissing her. The tender moment melting her and so similar to what she shared in her own marriage, Olivia filed it away determined to use it later.
Once the couple apparently remembered they weren't alone, the Senator addressed her again. "Olivia, I can't even begin to tell how truly happy we are for Fitz. To find himself not only an elegant and beautiful woman but one so charming and intelligent at that, I hope he's thanking his lucky stars...But you, you have our deepest sympathies for agreeing to put up with him for the rest of your life. Now that you're amongst friends you can finally make your great escape and we'll never breathe a word of it. I know it's been hell putting up with this guy."
"Are you kidding me? Fitz interjected. "The woman is crazy about me."
"She pursued me relentlessly almost from the moment we met." Fitz boasted jokingly, winking at Olivia before shooting Peter a smug look. "She told me that since I've come into her life she can't even think straight, that every breath she takes is a breath for Fitzgerald Thomas Grant the Third. Isn't that right, Livvie?"
"Oh brother," Olivia groaned. Even armed with the knowledge that the teasing nature in which the friends communicated came as naturally as blinking to them did nothing to lessen the embarrassment she felt for all of them.
"Hmm." Peter hummed, sizing Fitz up. "Well I don't see it for you but I can definitely understand the sentiment. My sweet Marian was the exact same way about me and she still is. Right, sweetheart?"
"It goes without saying." The woman replied quickly, so familiar with the rapport between the men that she could chime in appropriately and when needed even in her sleep.
Knowing it was useless to reprimand them over it she tried to reign them in as best she could and linked her arm in solidarity with Olivia's. "How about we take this inside, guys? I'm sure Olivia's interested in seeing more than just the driveway."
As the women led the way Olivia listened to the conversation that continued behind them.
"Hope you brought your clubs along with you Mr. President because we are hitting the green as soon as possible and I don't need you bitching about you being at a disadvantage. And I'm warning you now, no one's showing you any mercy."
"Mercy?" Fitz scoffed. "Get out of here. I've got my special set; the Caldwell ass kicking set, each club with one of your names on it. So if you've been slacking on your prayers I suggest you make nice with God before you even think about taking me on."
Chuckling with amusement that slowly begin to turn to exasperation as the men continued trading verbal jabs over a game that hadn't even taken place yet, Olivia sighed. "Are they really always like this when they get together, each and every time?"
"Pretty much, but trust me this is tame. It usually stays like this when it's just the two of them, but when Will, Joe, Chip and Anson are thrown into the mix you'll be looking for a nice bottle of something beyond potent to drink or either the closest utensil to do away with every part of your ears."
"Oh, God, no."
"Oh, yeah," Marion chuckled. "They'll be at it for a while so lets just concentrate on getting you off your feet. I already have a light snack set up for us in the solarium since it'll be a late supper tonight. Those two can either catch up or not. That sound okay to you?"
Her stomach grumbling loudly at the mention of any type of sustenance Olivia stroked it and smiled. "It sounds like heaven to us."
