Life was good for the Grants. After the wedding and Teddy's 6th birthday, they had found their groove as a family of three. Nothing changed drastically, but Teddy was especially happy to have his parents "back". Lots of fun dinners and outings throughout the area, and hanging out at home. Watching little Gigi somewhat rule the house was a treat as well.
Work was also revving up; Fitz hired two new attorneys for the firm and was drafting a proposal for scholarships with the Foundation. With wedding brain gone, Olivia was able to focus more on her work and give it her all. OPA was growing, and the group had taken on five new clients, with a waiting list of over twenty. Along with results, the bank account in a comfortable spot, so she could think about other ventures and side hustles, as well as take some time off.
Because of the coverage in Washington Life, a couple of bridal magazines, local news outlets, and social media, the Grant family was becoming an item to mention on the weekly. The DMV was falling in love with this budding power couple, and their adorable, precocious young man.
Doubling up as her birthday gift, Olivia and Fitz flew to Miami for their week-long honeymoon. She desperately craved warmth, beyond fed up with the last burst of winter cold they always received in the early spring, but didn't want to leave the country. For some reason, she wanted the luxury of returning to fly back in two hours to see Teddy and Gigi, who were going to live the good life at the Popes', or address any work issues. Her staff strongly recommended she delete her email app so she could go and enjoy herself.
After dropping off Teddy the night before, it was easy for them to get moving on an early Monday morning. They flew in from BWI, which guaranteed them a nonstop flight. Olivia read for a little bit, while Fitz was slept for two and a half hours.
He found the best hotel suite in town, right along Ocean Drive, so they could walk around and not have to use the rental car frequently. It was a great decision. Waking up late and strolling around downtown Miami and South Beach, just the two of them. Being able to wear the hat of care-free tourist was Olivia's wish, so she could actively spend time with her husband, feel the sun on her skin, and make wonderful memories. That's all she wanted.
After getting settled, they found a spot to visit for lunch. While waiting for their meals, she handed Fitz a greeting card; inside was a sweet handwritten note, and an invitation to shop all week long. Fitz noticed five gift cards, that totalled $2500, and immediately shook his head.
"Baby, this is too much. Absolutely not."
"I want to spoil you," she replied, tapping his knuckles. "I've been noticing you don't shop for yourself, so I'm encouraging you to do this. I can use my money however I please, and I want you to 'treat yo self'. Only for you. Not me."
Fitz's eyes hooded, overwhelmed by the sweet gesture, then reached over to kiss Olivia, brushing his thumb over her cheek.
"Thank you. I love you."
Before hitting the strip for the evening, they drove thirty minutes away to Bal Harbour one of the more exclusive communities in North Miami Beach. One of the highlights was its beautiful mall, featuring all of their favorite splurge-worthy stores: Oscar de la Renta, Gucci, Moncler, Valentino, and even La Perla. The two had exquisite tastes, ready to pick up new items.
Olivia had been walking around La Perla for about twenty-five minutes, perusing the beautiful display of lingerie and sleepwear in various colors, designs, and shapes. Since her 18th birthday, every year she'd pick a new bra and panty set. For her, seeing everything was like a candy store, and she loved spoiling herself, and knowing a particular someone would like the latest pair.
When Fitz realized where she purchased them, he was always eager for her to order online. It wasn't his fault that his lady looked ravishing in these pieces. He was following her like a puppy, and also daydreaming of his wife in everything. It was taking Olivia longer than usual to choose, with a pair of beautiful blues on her.
"What if I get that for you," he hinted at the peacock blue lace bra in front of them, noticing all of the detailing that would definitely accentuate her bosom. "You'd look amazing in it."
"How about you go check out Moncler, buddy," she whispered, covering her mouth. She didn't want the employees to hear their conversation. At the moment, Fitz was the only man in the store, which was fine, but honestly she didn't want to be pressured. Maybe he wanted to get her moving so they could go visit elsewhere.
He put his hand on the middle of her back. "Shit, am I embarrassing you? Do you want me to go? I'm sorry."
"Honey," she stated with gritted teeth, irises growing larger. "If you don't get your fine ass..."
Sheepishly, Fitz took a few steps back. "My apologies, baby. Okay, I'll be back. Text me when you're done."
Olivia winked at him, while the ladies in the store giggled, watching Fitz leave.
"He seems excited."
Olivia shrugged, "My husband loves this brand, almost as much as me. I sort of feel bad, but I want to surprise him too, ya know?"
"He'll love whatever you get."
"Yes, he will," she replied, comparing two bras.
In fifteen minutes, Olivia was finished, leaving the shop with two bags. Fitz was sitting on a bench, holding on to a large bag.
"I see you found something," she smirked.
Fitz stood to greet her. "I did. Damn, we need to buy another suitcase, so we can fly it out with us."
After three days, Fitz surprised Olivia with securing a house on the exclusive Star Island. She was under the impression they were staying at another hotel outside the city.
Taking a drive down the long strip. She noticed Fitz waving a card, which gave them access past the gates.
Snapping her eyes at him, she exclaimed, "What?!"
Nodding slowly with a lazy smirk, he answered, "Yes, ma'am."
"You've got to be shitting me."
Although the community was gated, it was open to the public to tour around, and view the massive houses.
Olivia was shocked out of her mind.
"Fitzgerald Grant!"
"Yeah, babe?"
"How did you get us in here? How did I not know? It's impossible."
"Nearly impossible," he stated, putting the car in park. "Come on, my lady."
"You shouldn't have done this."
"Oh, yes, I should. My wife deserves the best. I told you I'd spoil you this week. No matter what. That's what I'm going to do," Fitz replied in his quintessential sexy baritone that Olivia adored. His hands grazed her hips, and settled on her ass.
"Fitz…"
"Mmhmm. We are going to have so much fun."
He noticed her eyes were closed.
"You okay?"
"Yes," she grinned, slowly focusing on him. "I'm taking it all in. Thank you, everything is perfect."
Later in the day, the two were in the pool, relaxing. Obviously, the water was different than the Atlantic, but they appreciated the privacy. Olivia wore a new cobalt blue bikini, while Fitz brought his grey swimming trunks. After lots of giggles and splashing around, they took a walk around the neighborhood.
An older woman was walking her dog and waved.
"Hi, I'm Olivia."
"My name is Rosalina. What brings you here to Star Island?"
"Just visiting. Honeymoon."
"Congratulations. How was your ceremony?"
"Thank you. It was simple and elegant. Our families and friends attended, and my son, Teddy, was our ring bearer."
Rosalina politely smiled. "Oh? That's so sweet. How old is he?"
"Six."
"Pardon my naïveté, but you waited that long to get married?"
The tone was quizzical and judgmental. It did seem awkward, having to explain their dynamic. Olivia didn't want to feel embarrassed. But at the same time, it wasn't any of Rosalina's business.
"He is my husband's son from a previous marriage. 'Step' and 'half' are not in my vocabulary. Here's a picture of him."
Turning on her phone, Olivia shifted the screen over for the woman to see. It was a photo of Fitz and Teddy in his office, on his first official day owning the firm. They were so happy.
The woman beamed. "That's wonderful. My parents separated when I was younger, and my step parents did not see me the way you view Teddy. Never lose sight of that. Much success to you and your family."
Along with shopping and meeting new people, Olivia and Fitz were set on enjoying themselves as much as possible. They knew once they'd return, the copious amounts of fun would subside a bit. So they were going to make every minute count. Sleeping in, eating at new restaurants, and making love whenever they could. When they woke up, a little break before going out. Neither complained.
Friday night was their big outing in South Beach. The plan was to Uber into the city, get a little wild, and hopefully, end the night on a splendid note. Olivia wanted to celebrate her birthday well. Being able to order pieces ahead of time, she found the perfect outfit for the night. A colorful floral suit that fit the vibe downtown, along with a strapless black lace bustier. She knew she looked good, and with her husband probably salivating as soon he'd see her, the night would be made. A pair of pink Jimmy Choo pumps, that highlighted her naturally high arches, would complete the ensemble.
As she put in her dangle earrings, Fitz walked into the bedroom, wearing his casual grey suit and crisp white dress shirt, that was opened a little.
"Holy shit! My wife is smokin' hot!"
Rocking a new shade of pink on her lips, Olivia casually modeled for him, rolling her left shoulder for dramatics, looking over to see him. "Thirty-five doesn't look so bad, huh?"
"Never did, never will look bad."
Fitz strutted over, quite eager to get his hands on her.
"Guess what?"
"What?"
With a bright smile, Olivia said gently with her lips touching the shell of his ear. "I'm ovulating."
Fitz made a comical face, definitely caught off guard by her admission. "Oh? So that's why your boobs look extra amazing?"
Pressing her hand over her chest, Olivia batted her eyelashes. "Mmmhm. So, if you feel like making a little one this weekend, we should try."
Enjoying the view and how carefree Olivia was being, Fitz smiled, pulling her close to him. "I was set on 'practicing' all weekend long, just because we're alone, with no distractions. But I don't want to pressure you, honey."
"Thank you, but I think it'd be fun. On our getaway trip. I just wanted to let you know."
Olivia was careful to not get her lipstick smeared, but just had to kiss Fitz. With the hums caught in their throats, the two took advantage of their quiet moment.
"Let's see where the evening takes us, Mrs. Grant."
The evening was a blast; up and down Ocean Drive, eating good, drinking lots, and taking pictures. Fitz made sure to capture perfect angles of Olivia, including a particlar shot, with her posted up on a wall.
"I love it!"
Selfies for the 'gram and their personal collection. Some of the other visitors noticed how much in love they were.
Quickly, they called Teddy, catching up briefly with him and sending fake kisses to Gigi. When the call ended, Fitz was getting a little handsy.
"Whatcha doin'?"
"Admiring my wife. My wife!"
"Fitzy, you need to stop. Not here!"
Chuckling, he asked, "You good?"
Olivia closed her eyes, nodding, smiling so big, her cheeks were hurting. "Mmhmm."
"You're right."
"Right about what?"
"Time to make a baby."
Olivia found the tone of his request to be the sexiest.
"Welp, that's our cue," she exclaimed, pivoting into the other direction. Pointing at her husband, she requested, "Call the Uber."
The driver arrived in wonderful timing; the Grants were suprisingly quiet on the way back to the house. Olivia handed the driver a generous tip, before Fitz pulled her out of the car, making her squeal. It had been a while since they were so playful with each other in public. All of the stress leading up to the wedding had muted their actions.
Just as she was about to unlock the door, he stopped her.
"Want to try something new?"
"What are you thinking?"
"Well," Fitz tickled her back. "There's a lush area outside that has enough space for the two of us."
Olivia could sense the mischief in his voice. "You're lying."
He shook his head, poking out his lips. "Nope. I did some searching around the property and I like what I saw."
"Will anyone hear us?"
"If you're too loud, of course they will,' Fitz replied very sarcastically.
Olivia slapped his shoulder, "What are you saying? I am not loud. You get louder than me and you know it."
"You're a fucking lie."
"I know it's true. All I do is breathe deeply and say your name, all the time."
"Yeah, sure," Fitz teased, "With your voice bouncing off the ceiling, baby. Strong lungs."
Eyebrows knit, Olivia gave him the stiff hand. "Excuse you. When's the last time I went down on you? A week ago? You gave quite a vocal performance after I gave you the Pope special. Damn, you were louder than me when yo—"
Fitz bit the inside of his lip, remembering that glorious time, and trying to shift his weight because the memory was becoming unbearable.
"Okay, Liv? Let's just place a bet."
Knowing she had the upper hand, Olivia agreed.
"Whoever is the loudest, will need to cook dinner all next week."
Olivia almost cursed him out — it was a proven fact that although she had been working on her skills, he was the better cook. Four times out of the week, he was on dinner duty.
"And…if you are louder, Mr. Grant, you will keep me company at my next two hair appointments."
Fitz rolled his eyes; he knew damn well those salon dates were long.
"You're on."
They shook hands, staring each other down. Love for each other and the magnetic cloud of lust between them was raring to go.
"All this talk hasn't turned you off," he asked, before pressing his lips on her shoulder. "Knowing how I'm about to rock your world."
"Not at all, Mister. I done told you what I wanted to do with you tonight. I noticed how you were 'changing'."
Olivia gave him the "got you" look — a coy smirk, a slightly lifted right eyebrow.
Quickly surveying the court, Fitz was pleased to see most of the houselights out, minus one house across the way. A party was happening with lots of music and laughter. If they did their jobs, no one would hear them, well.
"C'mon."
Taking her by the hand, Fitz lead the way to the backyard. As he described, Olivia found the corner of the yard that Fitz wanted to use for their selfish purposes.
"Get this off."
Stealthily, the clothes were removed. Their skin feeling the warm air, at 10:30 at night. Olivia closed her eyes as Fitz kissed her neck, down to her chest and stomach.
"Mmmm," she rubbed his chin.
Fitz kissed her once, before aligning himself. "Love you, baby."
"Love you."
Once he pushed himself into that familiar space of Olivia, they smiled at each other, working up to on a comparable rhythm. They were in no rush, reconnecting with the moon above them. It was different, sneaky, and most of all, romantic, because they were on the same page.
After a few minutes of being on top of her, Fitz suggested they sit up together.
"Touch me right here," she requested, wanting Fitz to use his hands more. In addition, he tucked his head, giving attention to her breasts. She let out a heavy breath. "Yes, yes!"
Fitz removed his mouth from her nipple. "Don't you yell, or I'll have to take you inside," he playfully growled, tightening his grip on her jaw.
Their eyes met, fiery. Olivia gave him a sassy look, and promptly clenched down on him, determined to win this bet.
More kisses being used to distract the urge to truly vocalize how they were feeling. Of course, the challenge made them laugh, because there was truly no way they could keep quiet.
"You like that," she asked, cupping his balls, working on getting him to his completion.
"Uh huh." Fitz's ears were all red, hair ruffled. He couldn't get enough of Livvie.
"Baby, come for me."
"But you need to first," he groaned.
"Okay, well, make me."
Changing the pace of his strokes. Shallow and quick, fucking her harder and deeper, ready to make her fall into a million pieces. It was his favorite moment to watch her. Her eyes would squeeze shut; her hands gripping any part of him, shoulder, cheeks, ass. And to hear her call for him.
Feeling him twitch inside of her, set Olivia off. Four fast pants, and she grabbed for him.
"Fitz, holy fuck...Fitz!"
Music to his ears and damn, she was loud. He leaned over her, kissing her face, as he continued to feel everything with her. When her walls spasmed again, that's when he lost it. Fitz groaned, jaw slack. His orgasm was sensational.
When he came back to reality, Olivia was smirking at him.
"What?"
Wiping the sweat off his brow, she laughed, "We fucking failed."
The universe played the biggest joke on them. They both lost the bet.
"Dad?"
"Hmm?"
It was the first time Teddy didn't call him Daddy. Fitz didn't know if he was okay with all of that. His boy was growing so much, a few inches taller. Vocabulary expanding, and his view on life was refreshing.
"Mom is here."
"What?"
Teddy gestured to outside. "Mom."
Fitz glared out the window; sure enough, there was Mellie, stepping out of her coupe. Instead of resorting to anger, he swiftly lifted Teddy into his arms, propping him on the hip, and took him upstairs to the master bedroom, skipping steps.
"Daddy!"
Placing Teddy on the bed, Fitz rushed around to find things.
"Stay here, buddy."
Fitz handed over the iPad. The doorbell rang.
"Crap. Okay, you can play on your iPad. Just the apps. No internet."
"Daddy?"
"Yes?"
Confused, Teddy asked, "But why can't I be in my room or downstairs? You don't want Mom to see me?"
Fitz scrubbed his face. "It's hard to explain right now. But your Mom can't see you right now. Don't come downstairs until I say so," he commanded.
Teddy's puppy eyes widened; "Okay."
Fitz sighed. Three years since the final court date. Yes, he had seen her face, during the rare video chats with Teddy, or from her father's social media posts. But never in person and the last time that happened, Fitz went into a rage. He did not want Teddy to see any of resemblance of that behavior.
"I love you. Olivia will be here soon. Be right back."
If that doorbell rang one more, Fitz would have a fit. He just wanted her gone, and not in the mood to revisit hurt, so he was going to make this unannounced visit brief.
Swinging the door open, he met Mellie. She looked the same; beautiful and poised, but incredibly icy.
"What are you doing here?"
"Hello to you too," she answered. "I need to talk to you."
"About what?"
"Our son."
Fitz grunted, crossing his arms. "Has your lawyer talked to Cyrus?"
"No. I will talk to you right now."
"Excuse me?"
"Yes," she replied. "I want to revisit the contract and have it amended. Teddy needs to see me more."
Raising his voice, and closing the front door, Fitz stated, "The hell you won't."
"We've discussed this. He needs me. He needs his mother. More than ever."
"How would you know that? I don't even care about what happened with us. But you abandoned him when he needed you the most. When I needed you. You gave up everything when you signed the papers when he was not even a year old. Abdicated your role, Mellie. Now, he doesn't even want to talk to you on the phone. I have to beg him to do it before he cries. He barely wants to travel to see you. So what makes you think that all of a sudden, you can return and act like everything is normal? Because of a visit your parents set up? What is your deal?"
Fitz waited for Mellie to answer.
"Well?"
Shifting her weight to one hip, she replied, "Your girlfriend has really gotten to your head, hasn't she?"
"She is not my girlfriend, she is my wife now. I'm positive your parents or any of our mutual friends informed you."
Mellie wasn't having it. "Fitz, you damn well know we don't have any mutual friends anymore. They either sided with you or had compassion for me. They don't speak highly of you or her. But I'm here now, because you won't pick up my calls, unless they're scheduled for Teddy. Now let's talk."
"Not here."
As fate would have it, Olivia's car pulled into the driveway.
While Mellie rambled about some nonsense, Fitz kept his focus on Olivia. She must have hit the gym after work, because she was in a lightweight hoodie and athletic pants, and sneakers. With her gym bag slung over her shoulder, she marched to the door, squeezing past Mellie.
"Good afternoon."
His past in the same space as his present and future. So awkward, but he had to officially introduce them.
"Honey, this is Mellie. Mellie, my wife, Olivia."
The ladies shook hands. Olivia did not speak, only giving a polite grin.
"So, when can we discuss? Did you need her to be present?"
"Not without our lawyers present." Fitz moved to the left, so Olivia could get inside. She squeezed his hand before walking out of view.
"Wow, she continues to be rude."
"Don't you start, Mellie," Fitz retorted, "You have thirty seconds to get off my property or I will call the police."
"Am I allowed to see my son?"
"Was it on the schedule? Our agreement stated you cannot visit here unannounced, barring an Act of God."
Mellie spat, "Fuck you. I'm going to get my son back. If I have to move back here, it's going to happen. Take this."
Fitz snatched the envelope from her. "Please go. I do not want to cause a scene."
"Teddy! I love you," she yelled as she marched back to her car.
Fitz stared her down, feeling all the bile he assumed was removed from his system. She must be jealous, he pondered.
When he returned inside, Olivia was in the kitchen, making some tea.
"What in the world?"
"I don't know. Rushed Teddy to our room, and made him stay there. What the fuck is wrong with me? Anytime her name is mentioned, I go apeshit."
"How about we give Cy a call and see what we can do to prevent any random occurrences?"
"Damnit! Motherfuck!"
Olivia ran into the foyer.
"What?"
Fitz's hands were shaking. On the floor was the envelope he received. Olivia scanned the paper. Mellie submitted a proposal to amend the custody papers. She wanted summers, at least, have some kind of long-term situation with Teddy.
She could not believe what she was reading. Tears were stinging her yees. Before she had a chance to try to talk, Fitz stormed off.
There was no way he could talk at the moment. He slammed the office door shut, causing the whole house to shake. He didn't know how he would manage not having Teddy around for three months. He cried, until his throat hurt. Before he face Olivia and attempt to share his feelings, he called his father, revealing everything. Gerry was completely on Fitz's side.
"Son, you need to know what you're doing."
"I know."
"You need to do what's right for him."
"You think I don't know that, Dad?" Fitz closed his eyes, exasperated.
Gerry sweetly remarked, "You're a strong man, who had to take on an impossible situation by necessity. But you need to reset. Attack the issue and win. You're a lawyer, you know great lawyers, and most importantly. You love your son. Now, your wife is involved. You need to clue her in, so she can support you."
Drinking most of the water in his bottle, Fitz was ready to take on this next phase.
If the return from Miami wasn't more dramatic, Fitz received a call from the school office, which was highly unusual. There was a month left in the year, and nothing eventful had occured. He was hoping it had nothing to do with the uncomfortable meet up at the house the day before.
"Hello?"
"Hi, Mr. Grant, would you or Mrs. Grant be available to stop by the school this afternoon?"
"Is something wrong?"
The secretary answered, "Well…we have a tiny situation that we would like for you to be present for resolution. Teddy got into an argument with a classmate."
Fitz mumbled, "Dear Lord. Okay, I'll call my wife and get there by 2."
Using his cell, he dialed Olivia.
"Hey."
"Hey. Do you have time to go to school? We've been summoned."
"What's going on?"
"Argument? Secretary didn't give me me much. So…I'm nervous."
"Sure, I'll clear my afternoon."
"I'll pick you up."
Thirty minutes later, the Grants entered the school, signed in, placing their visitor stickers on their shirts.
"Good afternoon," the secretary greeted them. "I'll page his teacher and have Teddy come down."
Olivia sat down, while Fitz remained standing.
A minute later, the door opened. Little Theodore sheepishly walked in, giving a quick wave to his parents.
"Hey, buddy."
"Hi."
Another family walked by. Teddy turned away, rolling eyes.
Fitz tapped him on the shoulder. "What was that about?"
The principal, Mrs. Watson, came from aroudn the corner, and approached the family.
"Good afternoon, Mr. and Mrs. Grant. Please follow me. This won't take long."
Teddy slipped his hand in Fitz's, as they walked into the office.
"Thank you for coming. Teddy, can you tell your parents what happened?"
Willingly, the boy started talking, swinging his legs back and forth.
"Soooo... during lunch, I was showing my friends the awesome sandwich Mommy Liv made, and I told them you guys are the best parents ever."
"That's great."
"But one of my classmates, Brody, didn't like what I said. He doesn't like you guys. I was arguing..." Teddy paused. "That's the word, right?"
Olivia curtly responded, "Yes."
"Okay."
"Why were you arguing," Fitz asked.
Teddy sigh. "I didn't think their parents were the best but you and Mommy Liv are. And I said since you love me so much, you guys were going to make a brother or sister for me, so I can finally stop being a lonely, only child. Ha, that rhymes!"
Everyone watched his shoulders bounced as he laughed.
"Oh?"
"Yes, what else happened?"
"Then, a kid from Mr. Lewis' class asked where you were for the morning assembly yesterday. I didn't know and then I thought maybe you forgot and were either at work or kissing and making a baby."
Olivia frowned, while Fitz tapped his chin.
"Is that so?"
Teddy nodded with enthusiasm. "Yup! I mean, that's what you do at nighttime. After I go to bed. You…kiss and make babies."
Mrs. Watson was doing her best not to laugh. Turning to the Grants, she smiled. "We didn't think this was appropriate talk during lunch. Don't know which parents had discussed this with their students."
Fitz apologized, "This won't happen again."
"Daddy, this part made me mad." Teddy's eyes were big with nostrils flaring. "And then Brody told me you two shouldn't be married since you lived together in the same house before the wedding. I don't get it! What's wrong with that?"
"Uhh— we will talk about this later."
Teddy continued, using his hands to express himself. "Then, I said 'you must be jealous', and he cussed at me!" Blocking his mouth from the principal, he whispered, "I won't say what he said, because it's rude."
Fitz and Olivia were still puzzled.
The woman behind the desk gave Teddy a stern look. "Teddy, you need to finish the story."
Exhaling, he dramatically faced Olivia, "And guess what I told him?"
"What?"
Grinning with satisfaction, he answered, "I told him to fuck off."
Fitz's jaw dropped. Olivia's hand smacked her forehead.
"Theodore Grant!"
"What?"
Olivia took his hand. "Baby, you can't use that word."
Teddy explained, "But you two do. I heard you say it about the guy who almost bumped your car in traffic. Or when you're mad, or really happy. I remember."
The conversation had taken a sharp turn off the road. Olivia, being the clever "fixer", was very embarrassed to be talking about this in front of anyone who did not know their family dynamic well.
"That's an adult word."
Teddy groaned, slumping his shoulders. "You always tell me to use my big kid words."
Fitz calmly replied, "Big kid words and adult words are different."
"Okay," the little one deferred, softly. "I shouldn't have said that word. But I couldn't let him talk badly about you guys! Not on my watch!"
The sass of Theodore Wallace Grant; maybe that was the one good thing he inherited from his mother...
Mrs. Watson nodded with understanding; "Teddy received a red light for the rest of the day. So no recess or free play."
Fitz crossed his arms. "Thank you, Mrs. Watson. We will have a talk at home, so we can use our words wisely, and remember that our words have consequences."
"The bell will ring in 45 minutes. If you would like to take Teddy home, it's fine."
Olivia subtly opted for this and Fitz was thankful for the opportunity.
"Teddy..."
"I'm sorry, Mrs. Watson. I won't do this again."
The quick car ride home was awkward. Olivia was not expecting Teddy to talk about their family planning.
"Yowza."
"I know."
"As much as I wish he didn't curse, I'm proud of him."
"Theo-dorreee... Let's wash up, get a glass of apple juice and let's talk in the family room."
While Teddy followed instructions, Olivia kissed Fitz on the cheek. "How do you want to go about this?"
"Tag team it, baby."
Teddy slowly entered. He looked embarrassed, frustrated, and nervous. They couldn't stay upset at his cute self. The whole situation was humorous and more embarrassing for them.
Fitz grinned, "Hey! Come on over, pal. Have some apple juice. Mommy can make you a snack after we talk. How do you feel?"
"Awful."
"Why?"
Teddy sat on Fitz's lap, touching his shirt buttons. "Because maybe I shouldn't have fought Brody and said bad words. And then, when I was telling you the story, you and Mommy Liv didn't look happy."
"I see," Fitz replied, softly dragging his finger down the bridge of his son's nose. "So, from now on, these are our new rules. What we say at our house, stays in our house. Right, Mommy?"
Olivia clasped her hands. "Yes. That's right. I know you were frustrated and didn't like that Brody boy to talk badly about us. But there is a better way. If it gets to be too much, and you want to say mean words, get your teacher, or Mrs. Watson. Okay?"
"Okay. Hopefully Brody got in trouble too. He was walking out when we were going to Mrs. Watson's office."
After snack and being told he would be iPad-less for the weekend, Teddy was sprawled on the couch, cuddling with Olivia. She raked her fingers through his hair.
"Guess what?"
"What?"
Teddy's brown eyes softened; "I love you."
"I love you too."
"You're the best."
"No, you're the best."
"Never leave."
"I won't. Always stay sweet."
Teddy smiled, taking Olivia's hand. "Always."
As much she loved life with her sweet Teddy Bear, Olivia was experiencing some guilt and uncertainty about being a bonus Mom. Were there firm expectations and boundaries? Could she truly be her best if she was always wondering how Mellie would react? Especially with the impending changes, she was certainly on edge. Was she being a good role model? Fitz would almost always agree with her, but there was still a place of doubt in her mind.
Some of the ladies she met through school had gone through similar scenarios, running the gamut of smooth sailing and horror stories. Olivia appreciated the honesty in their comments, giving more to think about. After the little verbal fiasco, it got her thinking more. During their downtime after Teddy went to sleep, she decided to ask.
"Fitz?"
"Yeah?"
"I was wondering..."
"Yeah?"
"Would it be bad if I wanted to adopt Teddy?"
As soon as she asked, Olivia felt a thump in her gut. The request was noble, but perhaps she was out of line. Fitz's face was still, lips pressed, and his eyes frozen.
"You know what," she began to rise from the bed, "That was stupid. Never mind."
Fitz grabbed her arm, "No! No. I think that is a great idea. Teddy would be so happy and would love that so much. I am so honored that you would consider this. But…"
"I know," Olivia sighed. "It's going to be a hassle with Mellie. I don't know all the details of what you two have, but…"
She pressed her back on his chest, allowing him to wrap his arms around her. They began to breathe in sync, contemplating where to go next.
"There is a lot. But we will work it out, Livvie. I think it would be the best scenario for him. You're here and you see him every day. You love each other. The judge will be understanding. The proof is there. Teddy's life has improved tremendously because he had a mother figure and now has an active maternal presence in his life. That's you."
Olivia nearly started crying. Fitz kissed her temple, as he rocked her a little.
"I'll text Cy and see what we need to do. No matter what happens, we're in this together."
That was all they could as they slowly doze off to sleep.
Happy New Year, friends! Thanks for sticking around with me and this story (for over 3 years). If you enjoyed this chapter, please leave a comment here or at my twitter page. Dedicating this one to Bobbi and Gisselle, and some of the other ladies who are always so hyped when I mention this story. I never want to let y'all down. xo