Chapter 26

"Fitz, hurry up!" Olivia called from the elevator, holding the doors in place with her back, as they attempted to close shut.

He chuckled, walking swiftly to the elevator. "Baby, the trees aren't going anywhere."

"Come onnnnn," she whined, pulling on the collar of his coat, pushing him inside the elevator.

They were picking out a Christmas tree for Fitz's apartment. Something Olivia insisted, because his apartment wasn't festive enough. She'd mentioned to him that the single wreath on the door wasn't hardly enough. Olivia refused to go with a simple fake tree, like he suggested. She told him there was nothing like the smell of real pine to get a person in the mood for Christmas. He laughed her off, hoping she would drop the subject and he could just purchase a small artificial one. No such luck. She pressed and pressed until he finally decided he would take her to get a real one. There was a lot around the corner from his building he'd planned to take her, but then he remembered the farm she took him apple picking. He was going to surprise her and take her there.

Her feet, covered with a pair of long black leather boots, clicked loudly across the hard concrete in the parking lot. His long strides were quick, but not fast enough to catch up with her. His slow pace was on purpose, giving him an opportunity to enjoy the view of her silhouette. His eyes dipped to her hips, watching with intent, as they swayed from side to side. Her gray puffer coat stopped at her waist, giving him a full view of her perfectly rounded ass. He'd wished they were upstairs snuggling in his bed, exploring, touching, moaning.

Since returning from Vegas, they had become insatiable in their love making. It seemed like they could never get enough of each other. Olivia spent most nights at his apartment, including the days she allotted for studying. Fitz accommodated her schedule and gave her the space she needed to study. He stayed up busying himself in his office, waiting until she finished for the night. Olivia enjoyed waking up to Fitz every morning and falling asleep in his arms. They had a routine that worked and she often wondered if it would be the same if she'd changed her mind and moved in. Fitz enjoyed the change as well, and hoped it would remain the same, at least through the holidays.

Olivia reached the car and lifted the door handle. It was locked. Fitz pressed her against the car, over towering her small frame. His bulge evident and Olivia gasped at the feeling against her core. Her leggings did a poor job of shielding the sensation. His cold hands slipped inside her leggings, cupping her sex. Olivia shivered at the contact.

"We should go back upstairs for round two." Fitz hissed in her ear, squeezing a handful of her ass with his other hand.

Olivia squealed, "later, Mister. Trees first."

Fitz groaned, kissing the nape of her neck, "I could push the seat back and you could ride me right here."

"Open the door, nasty," Olivia chuckled, pushing out of his embrace.

He removed his hands from inside her leggings and pressed the door open button on the keychain. He lifted the handle to the door and smacked her ass before she eased down on the seat. She shivered, rubbed her hands together, and blew a gust of warm breath on them. The December temperatures in DC had fallen extremely low and the newscasters had predicted a snow storm in the coming weeks. Fitz slid in the driver seat, immediately revving up the engine, turning the dial on the heat. He closed the vent after a gust of cold air blasted in her face. He held both of her hands inside his, trying to warm them. "Better?" He asked.

"Yes, baby." She responded.

Fitz turned to the Christmas station on the satellite radio. He knew Olivia had been listening to it inside her car. She smiled and reached her hand over the console, linking her fingers with his. She sung to the lyrics of, 'Baby it's cold outside.' He pulled out of the parking lot, heading toward his surprise. Olivia tapped on the window as they passed the tree lot he promised to take her to, "Baby, you…um…passed the lot."

He winked, squeezing her hand, "I was thinking, we could cut down our own tree."

"Realllllyyyyyy?" Olivia squealed.

"Mmmhmm," He answered.

"How did I get so lucky?" Olivia asked, stretching over to his seat, planting a simple kiss on his cheek.

"No, I'm the lucky one." Fitz smiled.

They had been driving for a while and Olivia drifted off to sleep. Fitz pulled into the parking lot and turned off the ignition. He stepped out of the car, opening the passenger door, tapping Olivia on the shoulder. Her eyes fluttered open, "Where are we? I feel like we've been driving for hours. How long was I asleep?"

"Most of the ride," he answered, interlacing his fingers with hers, lifting her from the seat. They walked to the entrance of the farm and he pointed to the sign.

Olivia beamed with excitement. "It's the same place I took you for apple picking. I had no idea they sold Christmas trees."

"Well they do. They were closed today, but I pulled a few strings." Fitz answered with a grin.

"Are you Mr. Grant?" A man approached them with a wood cutting bow saw.

"I am." Fitz answered.

"Right this way." The man stated, walking down a path full of tall plush evergreen trees.

Olivia turned to Fitz as they walked down the path, "I want a really big one, baby."

He smiled, "whatever you want."

"I'm Sam by the way. When you find one you like, let me know. I'll help you cut it down." He said.

"Ok," Fitz responded.

Strolling down the aisle of evergreen trees, Olivia halted her steps at a 10ft one. She reached out her hand, swiping her fingers over the prickly green leaves. "This one, baby."

"You sure?" He asked, glancing up at the tall tree, wondering how the hell he was going to get it inside his apartment building.

"Yup." She answered.

"We'll take this one." Fitz said, turning to Sam.

"Ok." Sam said, demonstrating how to use the saw, revving it up and handing it to Fitz. "I'll hold the tree up, while you cut it down."

Fitz pulled up his black wool trench coat, squatted toward the ground, lowering the saw to the base of the tree and began cutting through the wood. Sam held the tree in place as it tilted toward him.

"What type of car do you drive?" Sam asked, lifting the tree with his broad arms, holding it over his head as if it was light as a feather. It was apparent this was something he did often.

"A black Porsche." Fitz answered, turning off the saw.

"I'll take it to the front and tie it on top of the car." Sam stated.

"Thank you." They said in unison.

Fitz struggled, walking the tree through the lobby. Olivia did her best to help by holding the back of the tree. He paused midway, standing the tree on the lobby floor, wiping his brow. He cursed under his breath.

"Let me help you." Huck said, walking out of the hidden office, behind one of the walls in the lobby.

"Thanks." Fitz said.

"Hey Huck." Olivia waved.

Huck lifted the tree from the front and Fitz held it from the back. Olivia rushed to the gold elevator and pressed the button, holding the doors open as they maneuvered the large tree inside. They pushed the tree through the elevator, moving it inside Fitz's apartment when the doors opened. Olivia prepared the red and green base by placing it in front of the window, filling it with water. Huck and Fitz lifted the tree, centered it inside the base and Olivia twisted the silver rings through the trunk of the tree. It stood firm and she unraveled the white string that held the tree branches closed. She stepped back, and watched the tree branches open up, creating the perfect Christmas tree. "It's beautiful," she whispered.

Christmas was one of her favorite holidays. It was special for many reasons. Her parents had certain traditions they always celebrated. This year she would have to introduce them to Fitz. After the debacle during Thanksgiving, she didn't want to spend another holiday without Fitz. She made several attempts at trying to convince her parents to change their plans and spend Christmas in DC. They finally budged the week before Christmas and agreed to drive to DC on Christmas day. For Fitz, it was easy to convince his family. It was something they did every year. He went to California for Thanksgiving and they came to visit him for Christmas. Ace offered to host the dinner at his restaurant. Fitz gave Alyssa a hefty Christmas bonus and she agreed to help with the planning.

She turned from the tree, glancing over at Fitz, attempting to get his attention. His back was to her and he spoke in a low tone to Huck.

"Huck what do you think?" Olivia asked, walking toward Fitz.

He chuckled, "It's a tree. It looks like a tree."

Olivia threw her hands up with a slight giggle, "Never mind Huck. What do you think, Fitz?"

"It's big." He answered.

Fitz and Huck moved closer to the elevator, whispering. Olivia knew they were talking about the plan for Sally and Hollis. She ignored their conversation and walked to the hallway closet, pulling out the blue and silver ornaments they had purchased a week ago.

Olivia sauntered over to Fitz, gently caressing his arm, "Baby, I would love for you to do this with me." She said, placing a silver ornament in his hand.

Huck shook Fitz's hand, with a slight nod, "Have fun."

Olivia connected her phone to the Bluetooth speakers, scrolling through her playlist and pressed on the song, Let It Snow by Boyz II Men. Oliva swiped across her phone to the multiple decorated Christmas trees she'd saved on her Pinterest board. "Baby, this is the one I want to try and duplicate." She said, turning her phone so Fitz could see the picture.

"Um, Liv. I love you very much, but there's no way we are duplicating that tree. It looks professionally done." Fitz said, hanging the silver ball he had in his hand on a branch.

Olivia pouted, and wrapped her hands around his waist, resting her head on his back, "We can try,"

"You know exactly how to win me over, don't you? Let me see the picture again." Fitz said, handing her a blue ornament.

After two hours of decorating the tree with blue and silver ornaments, streaming ribbon down the branches, hanging white snowflakes and spraying the tree branches with fake snow, they were exhausted. Olivia plopped on the couch and lifted her wine glass, guzzling down the last drop. "I like it, baby. What do you think?"

Fitz yawned, "It looks almost as beautiful as you."

Olivia yawned as she interlaced her fingers with his, "Thank you for today, Fitz. I had a lot of fun cutting down our first Christmas tree. We have to do it every year. It's our tradition, now. It feels sort of weird decorating a tree here instead of in New York."

"Are you having second thoughts about not going home for the holiday?"

"No, baby." She said, moving toward the kitchen sink. "I want to be with you on Christmas and New Year's Day. I'm happy we're starting our own traditions. It's just going to take some time to get used to being in DC for the holiday."

Fitz leaned his shoulder against the refrigerator, watching as Olivia rinsed the wine glasses in the sink.

Olivia blushed, "What?"

"I love you." He said.

She took a soap bubble on her finger and placed it on his nose, "I love you too."

He chuckled, turning off the sink. "Leave it, baby."

He motioned for her to follow him to the bedroom. They quickly changed out of their clothes, and showered together. Olivia's slightly damp curls hung over her shoulder as Fitz smoothed lavender and vanilla lotion over her back. "Thank you." Olivia said, lifting her arms through her nightgown.

"This smells good." He said, placing the lotion on the nightstand, committing the name to memory. Something else he planned on adding to her many Christmas gifts. She smiled, pressing her back against his chest, trailing her fingers up and down the veins that were present on his arms. "I can't wait for Christmas." Olivia said.

His hands slipped to the hem of her silk nightgown, slowly raising it, revealing more of her soft cocoa brown skin. He tried to keep his thoughts focused on what she was discussing, but his body started reacting to the beautiful woman in his arms. She could feel him growing underneath her and she wondered how long he would last before he flipped her over and ended the conversation.

"Baby is there anything else we need to do before the dinner with our families?" Olivia asked, straightening out her nightgown, attempting to get more time to talk.

"No, I don't think so. Ace has the menu with the food selections. Alyssa will be there at the very beginning to make sure everything is set up." He answered, pushing the tiny straps of her gown down her shoulders, peppering kisses down her neck.

"I will stay here on Christmas eve, but I have to leave super early on Christmas morning to meet my parents at my apartment." Olivia stated.

He paused, "Baby, I want you here for Christmas."

Olivia sighed, "Fitz, my father will lose his shit, if he has an inkling that I'm sleeping here with you. After breakfast, I'll bring them here."

She slipped the straps all the way down her shoulders, teasing him.

"Ok, but after everyone leaves for the evening, I want you all to myself." Fitz groaned.

Olivia turned in his arms, facing him. Her breasts were inches away from his mouth. "Deal," she whispered, dropping her lips to his, nipping at them.

"Enough with the talking." Fitz said, flicking his thumb over her hardened nipples, opening his mouth, devouring each nipple one by one.

Olivia threw her head back, as a soft moan escaped her lips, "aaaaahhhhhhh."

X

Olivia looked over the food displayed across the kitchen counter. She tossed the containers from the different restaurants inside the trash. She patted herself on the back for driving across town to several of her friends' favorite restaurants and making it back on time. She licked her lips surveying the food in front of her, hot wings, mozzarella sticks, carrots and celery with ranch dip, pizza bites, nachos and cheese, meatballs, ribs, Caesar salad, and curry chicken. Abby counted the bottles of alcohol one by one, making sure she had enough to last the entire evening. She opened the cabinet, pulling out the shot glasses with their individual names on it and lined them up on the counter. "Shit is about to go down tonight!" Abby chuckled.

"Damn, that's a lot of liquor, Abbigale!" Oliva said.

"I plan on getting wasted, Liv. Try not to be a grandma this time." Abby laughed.

Olivia smirked, resting her hand on her jean clad hip, "Whatever, Abby. I don't want to have to replace the couch, like we did last time, because you threw up your entire stomach. Have a little class tonight."

It was that time of year again. Their annual holiday sleepover with Quinn and Makayla. It was the one night they stayed up extremely late, ate all their favorite foods and indulged in way too much alcohol. The theme for the sleepover was onesies. Olivia wore a simple red and white onesie that buttoned up in the front. Abby wore a red and green onesie that had the words ho…ho…ho written all over it.

Olivia turned on the music and poured her first drink of the night. She started with a glass of red wine, hoping she could last longer than she did last year. The loud buzzer rung throughout the apartment and Olivia buzzed Makayla and Quinn up. They walked in, immediately hanging up their coats in the closet, revealing their onesies. Makayla turned around in a circle showing off her brown reindeer onesie. Quinn strolled to the bar and lifted the hood on her holiday penguin onesie. Abby turned the volume up on the music, and yelled, "shots…shots…shots."

"Hell yeah!" Makayla said, jetting over to the counter. "It's time to let loose. I've been looking forward to this day, allllll week."

Abby poured four shots of Hennessey and handed them each a shot glass. She lifted her shot glass in the air, "to another year of us doing the damn thing." Within seconds, they chugged down the brown liquor.

"Fucking hell. Who drinks this shit?" Olivia said, grabbing a bottle of water, guzzling down the cold liquid, trying to get the taste out of her mouth.

"Still a lightweight." Abby chuckled.

Quinn poured another shot of Hennessey and downed it, "time to get this party started."

They piled their plates with food and settled on the floor in front of the couch.

"Let's play never have I ever." Makayla said, biting into a hot wing.

"You know the rules…If your answer is yes to the question, take a shot. If it's no, keep your mouth shut." Abby laughed.

"Oh boy." Quinn chimed.

Olivia giggled.

"Alright, Liv you start it off." Abby said.

Olivia placed her plate on her lap, "Ok, never have I ever had sex in a public place."

Everyone took a shot, except Makayla.

Makayla's eyes widened, "Hold up! Liv took a shot. When and where, do tell."

"In Vegas, inside the dressing room." Olivia giggled.

"Biiittcchhhh!" Abby slurred.

"I'll be damned, Liv is a freak." Quinn laughed.

"Shit, I've never had sex in a public place. Olivia has me beat. How is that possible?" Makayla said, guzzling down her shot of Tequila.

"Yaassssss!" Olivia said, standing and dancing around the room. Y'all thought I was going to stay a good girl, forever."

"She went from a virgin to a freak in less than 6 months." Abby said, lifting her glass to clink it with Olivia's.

Olivia took another sip of her red wine and placed the glass on the table. She fell back on the couch and giggled, "I can't help it. Fitz is sooooooo good in the bedroom."

"Apparently in a dressing room to." Makayla said.

"Never have I ever walked in on someone having sex." Quinn said.

"I walked in on my parents, so I guess that counts." Makayla said, downing the liquid in the shot glass.

"Ewwww." Olivia said. "I would be scarred for life."

"Exactly." Makayla laughed.

Abby guzzled her rum and Coke down, "When Fitz was staying here, I walked in on Liv and him by mistake. My eyes nearly burned out of my fucking head."

"Abs, you never told me that. We were barely having sex while he was here. When was this?" Olivia asked.

"I don't fucking remember, I had my ear buds inside my ears and I opened the door to your room and your ass was in the air. Fitz looked like he was in another world. I just closed the door and kept it moving." Abby answered.

Olivia busted out laughing. "Damn…it must have been good if we didn't hear the door open."

"Never have I ever had sex in a car." Makayla said.

They all took a shot except Olivia.

"Y'all haven't fucked in the car yet? Abby asked.

"I just lost my virginity six months ago, damn. Give me some time before I bring the freak out on a full time basis." Olivia said.

"Fitz is a freak. I'm sure fucking you in his car is one of his fantasies." Quinn said.

"Mmmmmhmmmmm" they said in unison.

"Fitz wants a lady in the streets and a freak in the sheets." Abby chuckled.

"Yuuupppp." Quinn responded.

"Alright this game is going to shit. Let's play karaoke." Abby suggested.

"Yesssss." Olivia slurred. "I am fucking drunk, but let's do it."

"Ok, I wrote everyone's name on a piece of paper and placed it inside a cup, whatever name you pick, that's your teammate." Makayla said.

Quinn pulled Olivia's name and Abby was left with Makayla. They each moved to a corner and scrolled through their phones, trying to pick a song. The timer went off on Abby's phoned and summoned them to begin.

Olivia grabbed a jacket from her closet, the broom and a pair of black sunglasses from her room. She linked her phone to the Bluetooth speaker. "Press play Quinn," Olivia said, giggling. Mary J. Blige's Be Happy started playing through the speaker. Olivia took the broom in her hand and pretended it was a microphone. She swayed back and forth, blurting out the lyrics to the song. Quinn pretended to be the background dancer, moving her hips to the beat of the music. When the song ended they both fell to the floor in a fit of cackles. Olivia held her stomach from the pain of her laughter, "Top that, Abby and Kay."

Abby and Makayla smirked and pressed play on Abby's cellphone. Meghan Trainor's Lips are Movin blasted through the speakers. Makayla and Abby tried to keep a straight face as they sung the lyrics while moving their fingers up and down mimicking a mouth. Midway through the song, they fell to the couch, laughing hysterically.

Olivia rolled her eyes, "Y'all lost."

"White Elephant time." Quinn yelped.

They moved toward the small artificial Christmas tree and picked up a gift bag that was different from the one they brought.

"Yasssssss, Bath and Body lotions." Olivia squealed, pulling out her items from a red gift bag.

"Who the fuck bought essential oils and a diffuser as a gift?" Abby asked, pushing her green gift bag aside. "I'm definitely stealing someone's gift."

"Ayyyeeeee, Tito's vodka and shot glasses." Makayla shouted, holding up her items.

Quinn tossed the tissue paper out of her bag, announcing, "a planner and cute pens."

"You can only steal a gift once." Abby said.

"Ugh!" Quinn groaned.

"Alright, pick numbers so we can see who goes first." Makayla said.

They traded gifts back and forth until Olivia ended up with the essential oils and diffuser. Quinn had the Tito's vodka and shot glasses, Abby ended up with the Bath and Body lotions and Makayla had the planner with the pens.

Olivia yawned, "It's 4am ladies. I'm about to take it down in my own room." She attempted to stand, and wobbled back until she crashed on the sofa. Her head was spinning but she really wanted to sleep in her own bed. She pressed her hand to her forehead and moved slowly down the hall. Once she reached her bedroom, she fell to her mattress, draping the covers over her body.

The sun pierced through the blinds shining directly on Olivia. She grabbed the pillow from the side of her bed and placed it over her head, blocking it. Her body felt heavy, unmovable. She lifted her head and was met with a throbbing, pounding sensation. She pressed her fingers to her right temple, trying to ease the pain. This is why she hated drinking to the point of oblivion. It was pointless and she always woke up the next day feeling like shit. Her stomach churned and she knew it was coming. Her feet hit the floor faster than she could think about it. She dry heaved over the toilet before emptying the contents in her stomach. "Ugghhhhh." She groaned, wiping her mouth with a towel.

She stood, glancing at herself in the mirror, and shook her head. Her curls were disheveled and standing on top of her head. Wrapping her strands around each other, she created a messy bun. She washed her face and brushed her teeth. She walked back inside her bedroom and noticed a glass of water and a bottle of Tylenol on the night stand. She didn't remember putting it there the night before, but then again everything from the night before was a blur. She opened the bottle popping two small pills in her mouth and sipping the cool water. She lowered her head down on the pillow and drifted off back to sleep.

A few moments later, she pulled herself out of bed, splashed water on her face again. The smell of food penetrated through her bedroom door and her stomach growled. She made her way out of the bedroom, slowly tiptoeing inside the living room. She assumed Abby was in the kitchen cooking breakfast, until she looked down at the couch and saw Abby's red curls, falling over the cushions. She heard muffled sounds and light chuckles coming from the kitchen. She dropped to the floor, unsure of who was in the kitchen. She shook Abby several times trying to wake her, but she made no movement. Olivia huffed. She popped her head up from the couch and glanced briefly inside the kitchen again. She rubbed her eyes and recognized right away, it was Fitz, Stephen and Huck.

"Abby," Olivia whispered, roughly, shaking her back and forth on the couch.

Abby groaned.

"Abby wake up!" Olivia said.

"What, Liv?" Abby asked, pressing a pillow on top of her head.

Olivia leaned back, waving her hand in front of her nose from Abby's morning breath.

"You might want to get up, brush your teeth and look a little presentable. Stephen is in the kitchen." Olivia said.

"Shit…Fuck…Is he? Damn, I forgot I asked him to come over and make breakfast." Abby said, tossing the pillow off her head.

"How did he get in?" Olivia asked.

"I gave him a key." Abby said.

"Oh. Well, Fitz and Huck are here too." Olivia said.

"Shit, Liv, I'm sorry. I had no idea he was going to ask them to come and help." Abby said.

Olivia shrugged, "I'm cool with it. All of us look like shit, anyway."

"You better wake up sleeping beauty." Abby said, pointing to Quinn.

Olivia crawled over to Quinn, her face plastered in between two pillows on the couch, drool dripping down the side of her mouth. Olivia chuckled, shaking her, "Quinn." She yawned turning over on the couch. "I feel like a truck just ran over me…What!"

"Get your ass up, Huck is here." Olivia said.

"Where?" Quinn asked, jumping up from the couch, moving her head side to side, looking around the room. "Shit, what are they doing here?"

Olivia pointed to Abby.

Abby shrugged, yawning. She threw the pillows back on the couch and walked to her bedroom to freshen up.

"Good Morning," Olivia yelled over the clinking sounds in the kitchen. Fitz, Stephen and Huck, turned at the same time, glancing at her with a shocked expression.

"We didn't mean to wake you." Stephen said, plating pancakes he held on a spatula. "We tried to keep the noise to a minimum."

"Hey baby," Olivia said, sauntering over to Fitz.

"Hey," He said, leaning in to her, placing a kiss on her lips. He cracked several eggs over the frying pan, stirring the yellow substance and adding sprinkles of cheese. "Our plan was to sneak in and make breakfast, then leave."

Olivia chuckled, "So much for being sneaky, huh?"

Fitz smiled. "How are you feeling? I put some Tylenol and water on your nightstand. I figured you might need it after I saw the amount of empty alcohol bottles.

"I feel like shit, but I'll feel better as the day goes on." Olivia answered. "Thank you for the Tylenol."

Olivia swiped a pancake from the plate, folding it, and popped it in her mouth. She rested her palms on the counter, watching Fitz move the eggs around the pan. She loved when he cooked. Her eyes trailed down his large biceps that were hugging tightly around his white t-shirt.

Abby walked in the kitchen and tossed the pot holder at Olivia, "Stop fantasizing about getting Fitz naked."

Fitz looked up from the pan, "Were you undressing me with your eyes?"

"Something like that," she answered.

Abby walked over to Stephen, and kissed him on the cheek, "Thank you, babe."

Fitz clicked off the pan, scooping out the eggs and dropped the pan in the sink. Quinn walked inside the kitchen fully dressed, pecking Huck on the lips.

"Why are you dressed?" Abby asked.

"Isn't the sleepover done? I'm going with my man after breakfast." Quinn answered.

Abby rolled her eyes.

"So, I'm the seventh wheel?" Makayla asked, plopping down on the stool in the kitchen.

"I asked Stephen to cook breakfast for us. I had no idea he was going to bring the entire squad with him." Abby said.

"Abby, you thought I was going to cook an entire breakfast alone? Shit, not in this lifetime." Stephen answered.

"Once again, I feel left out." Makayla said, placing food on her plate.

Abby popped a grape in her mouth, chuckling, "Kay, you decided to go on this no dick journey. Not us!"

"Whatever Abby." Makayla said.

They enjoyed breakfast as a group, laughing and sharing stories. Olivia looked around the kitchen and smiled. So much had changed in a year. They were successful in their careers. They had decent boyfriends, except for Makayla, but hopefully that would change. Her thoughts trailed to when she met Fitz at the airport. She was happy and so were her friends.

X

Olivia peeked in the oven and glanced at the lasagna bubbling in the pan. She spread a large heaping of garlic butter across the long baguette, before inserting it in the oven. She pulled apart the bag of salad and dropped the lettuce in a bowl, slicing up the cucumbers and tomatoes, before adding them to the bowl. She wanted everything to be perfect. It was their first Christmas Eve. She leaned on the counter, checking her phone, she noticed a text from Fitz. He was running late, due to a last-minute meeting. She sighed, dropping the phone back on the counter. She poured a glass of red wine, sipping the liquid slowly.

The elevator dinged and she swiftly moved to the doors waiting for them to open.

"Hi," she whispered, when the doors pushed back.

"Hi, it's my mom." He whispered, tilting the phone up, pecking her lips.

"The food is almost ready." She whispered as Fitz scurried to the bedroom.

She followed behind him, walking inside the bathroom, and turning on the shower. She smiled, picking up the red gift bag on the bed, handing it to Fitz.

He smiled, "For me?"

"Yes." She answered.

He looked inside the bag, and pulled out a pair of red and black pajamas. He unfolded the shirt and saw the word 'Naughty' printed in bold black letters. "Thank you, baby." He said, embracing her in his arms.

"They match mine." She stated, releasing from his embrace, underlining the word 'Nice' with her finger.

"I love it. I'll shower and put them on." Fitz stated.

Olivia nodded and sashayed back inside the kitchen, checking on the lasagna and garlic bread. She lifted the food from the oven, placing it on the counter, allowing it to cool. Fitz walked inside the kitchen, his hair slightly damp from the shower. His nose caught a whiff of the food and he looked down on the counter, "You made this?" He asked

Olivia giggled, "Yes."

"It looks good, baby." He stated, pulling her to him, lifting her to the top of the counter. "I missed you."

Olivia ran her fingers through his wet curls, dropping her lips to his, nipping at them. His hands roamed under her shirt, flicking at her hardened buds. A soft whimper, escaped her lips. She parted her lips more, allowing his tongue to explore. She rocked her hips closer, locking her legs around his waist. Her tiny nimble fingers, lifted the hem of his shirt, touching and teasing his well sculpted chest. The light feather movements from her touch sent Fitz's arousal into overdrive. His erection, throbbing, painful, standing at attention. He pulled at her pants, yanking them slightly. They were lost in the moment until Olivia opened her eyes and remembered they needed to eat. She dropped her legs from his waist, sucking in his bottom lip, releasing it with a pop. "Dinner first, Mister." She jumped off the counter and moved to the food, unwrapping it.

Fitz moved behind her, gripping her waist, pressing her ass into his erection, "Baby, dinner can wait. I want you."

"Fitz, if we start we won't stop. We can eat fast." Olivia responded with a kiss to his cheek.

Fitz dropped his head to his hardened length, shaking his head. "What am I supposed to do about this?" He grunted.

"I'll take care of it, later. I promise." Olivia said, handing him the glass dish of lasagna.

He immediately started counting backwards as he walked inside the dining room.

Olivia was not surprised as she watched Fitz inhale his food. He was on a mission to get her in the bedroom. He placed the last bite of lasagna in his mouth and dropped his fork on the plate, guzzling down the remainder of his scotch, "I'm done."

Olivia chuckled, sinking her teeth in a piece of garlic bread. "I have dessert."

"It better be you, sprayed with whipped cream and two cherries on each nipple." He said, licking his lips.

Olivia's blushed at his comment, "Fitzgerald."

After dinner, Olivia pulled out two small white boxes from the refrigerator. One contained a slice of chocolate cake. Fitz's favorite desert. The other box held a vanilla cupcake with rainbow sprinkles. Her favorite dessert. She grabbed the milk from the refrigerator and poured some of it in a tall glass to heat up in the microwave. Once the milk was piping hot, she poured it inside the two mugs that had the powdered cocoa. Dipping a peppermint spoon inside each mug, she swirled the liquid around, spraying the top with creamy whipped cream. Swiping a small amount of whipped cream on her finger, she took it and spread it across Fitz's lips.

"You're such a tease, Liv." Fitz groaned.

"You love it." She said, licking his lips clean, before walking the desserts over to the glass coffee table, centered in front of the couch.

Fitz grabbed the two mugs of hot chocolate and joined Olivia on the couch. He pulled her from the far side of the couch, gently placing her on top of his lap. "I want you next to me." He sipped the hot chocolate, relishing in the velvety smooth taste. "Damn, that's good."

Olivia smiled, "Every year on Christmas eve, my mom buys me and my dad a new pair of pajamas, hence the ones you're wearing. We make hot chocolate together and she uses these really cool peppermint spoons. I had her send me some, so I could share them with you. It's another one of my traditions."

"I like it. You know what else I like?" Fitz asked.

"Tell me." Olivia said, sipping her hot chocolate.

"Having you here every night." Fitz answered, keeping his eyes focused on her.

"Yeah," Olivia said, licking the vanilla frosting from the cupcake off her lips.

"Is it going to stay like this?" Fitz asked.

She knew eventually he would ask her change in routine, she'd been waiting for the conversation. Olivia sighed, tensing in his arms.

"Talk to me." He said.

She shrugged, "just go with it, Fitz."

He cleared his throat, "You're spoiling me, Liv. I love coming home to you every night and I know moving in was not an option, however…"

Olivia interrupted, "I need to do a better job in showing you how much you mean to me. I want this relationship just as much as you do."

"No one is keeping score, Liv. I want you to love me the way you want to love me." He stated.

Olivia swallowed hard, fidgeting with the hem of her shirt, "I don't want you to think, I don't appreciate you."

"Hardly. I know you love and appreciate me. It's the little things you do for me that I love the most. Tonight, making dinner, picking up my favorite dessert, texting me in the middle of the day just to see how I'm doing, sharing your family traditions with me." He tilted her chin up, "for giving me another chance after the shit my father pulled. You could have walked away. I don't know what I would've done if you had."

"I love you, Fitz." Olivia said, pressing her back firmly against his chest.

"I know, baby. I love you too. I don't want you to feel pressured to spend a night here because it's something I want." He said.

"I want to be here." She said, linking her fingers with his. "Did you do anything special with your family on Christmas Eve?"

"At midnight, my mom would let us open one gift. On Christmas day, she cooked this huge breakfast for us. Before we could open any presents, we had to eat everything on our plate." Fitz chuckled. "I used to stuff my mouth with food, barely tasting anything. I just wanted to get to the presents."

Olivia laughed, glancing at the many presents cascading from the tree. "Do you want to open one gift at midnight?"

"No. I want to exchange all our gifts at once." He stated, taking a sip of hot chocolate.

Every day, Fitz placed gifts under the tree, leading up to Christmas Eve. Olivia would peek at the tags the minute he left the room. Most of them had her name on it. There were a few for his mother, grandmother and sister. The wrapping was immaculate and she wondered if Fitz had wrapped them himself. She was anxious to see what he had bought her. She'd hidden his gifts in one of the closets. She'd matched his gifts with the same number of gifts he had bought her. But she knew Fitz. He always had more.

Fitz stretched his arms behind his head, pressing his legs outward, he asked, "are you excited about tomorrow?"

"Very excited." Olivia said, licking her tongue around what was left of the peppermint spoon.

"Our families haven't been together since the foundation ball." Fitz stated.

"Yeah, I know." Olivia said.

"What's the plan for tomorrow again?" Fitz asked.

Olivia smiled, "Baby you know the plan. I have to leave early in the morning, rush to my apartment and pretend I slept there. My parents will arrive around eight. My father has already confirmed the time with me. I'll make them breakfast at my place, then we will meet you and your family here in the afternoon, before dinner."

"I wish you didn't have to pretend." He said.

Oliva stretched, and stood from his lap, "Baby, we have all night."

"I believe you owe me from earlier this evening." He said.

Olivia shook her head with a smile, "let's go to bed, Mr. Grant."

"I like it when you call me Mr. Grant." Fitz crooned.

"Mr. Grant." Olivia whispered again, sauntering down the hall toward the bedroom.

Fitz closed the bedroom door with one swift kick, "I plan on living up to the name on my shirt tonight, Ms. Pope."

"Mmmmm. I like the sound of that." Olivia said.

X

Morning came faster than they expected. Olivia's cell phone alarm beeped loudly throughout the bedroom. She yawned, stretching, and eased slowly from Fitz's tight embrace. She stumbled out of the bed and looked for her pajama pants on the floor. Grabbing them in her hand, she slid her legs quickly through them. She looked in the mirror and smiled at the reflection of Fitz, comfortably sleeping. She wished she could lay back down and snuggle in his arms. Last night, he definitely lived up to the name on his pajama shirt. The thoughts of their love making rushed to her mind and she crossed her legs, attempting to ease the ache that was forming between her legs. It was still amazing to Olivia how simple thoughts of Fitz made her body react in the best way. She quickly brushed her teeth and washed her face. She ran her wet fingers through her curls trying to fix them from the disheveled look they displayed in the mirror. It didn't work, she twisted the curls, tying them back with a scrunchie.

"Baby," she whispered, kneeling down at his side of the bed.

Fitz turned on the mattress, and pulled her on top of him, "Merry Christmas, beautiful."

Olivia chuckled, softly kissing his nose, "Merry Christmas, handsome."

"Let's cancel everything, stay in bed and open presents." Fitz said.

"As good as that sounds, baby, it's not happening." Olivia said, releasing from his arms, and scooting off the bed.

Fitz leaned up and ran his hands through his sandy brown curls, making it unrulier. God, she loved his bedhead. It was so sexy. "Didn't we come to bed with our clothes on?" He asked, pulling the sheets back, exposing his stiff, erection, searching the floor for his pants.

Olivia sucked in her bottom lip, "damn," she whispered.

"I don't have to put these on, you know. You could come back to bed." He glanced up, meeting the seduction of her brown doe eyes.

"We can't." Olivia uttered, barely a whisper. She was completely turned on. Every cell in her body was on fire and she felt like she was going to explode at any minute.

Fitz slipped his legs through his pajama pants, and tossed the shirt over his head.

Olivia grabbed her purse from the dresser, "I know I haven't had any other partners but you're very well-endowed Fitz."

In one quick swoop, he pinned her against the wall, pressing his morning erection against her center. Olivia moaned as her body instantly reacted to his touch. He devoured her lips, slipping his hands inside her pajama pants. "We can't…Fitz." Olivia groaned as his fingers circled around her clit.

"We can, baby." He said, gyrating his hips. "Please baby, all I want for Christmas is you." He crooned.

Olivia's breathing hitched. She couldn't give in to his request. She would be late. Her parents would instantly know she spent the night at his place. She couldn't risk it. Or could she? She told her father to start treating her like an adult. Fuck it, she told herself, quieting her mind. She pushed down his pajama pants, springing him free. Her pants were already on the floor circled around her ankles. Fitz lifted her hands above her head and slowly slid down to her core. Her body jerked as soon as she felt the warmth of his breath. "Damn, baby, you're dripping wet." He moaned. He pushed her legs further apart, holding her hips still as his tongue licked across her sensitive flesh. A moan slipped past her lips. Fitz pursed his lips, kissing the hard bud of her clit. "Fitzzzzzzz." She moaned. Pleasure whipped through Olivia as he tasted the saturated flesh, then with a greedy tongue he delved into the swollen folds. His tongue flicked over the narrow entrance, sucking, licking. Olivia pulled at his strands of hair, begging for more. He gave in to her request and licked more, feeling her juices flowing on his tongue. Her body bucked against the wall and his mouth. He licked until the wave had settled and his mouth was covered in her sweet essence. "Mmmmmmmm." He said, pulling up her pajama pants. He kissed her lips as she fluttered her eyes open. He reached down to pull up his pants and she stopped him. "Fitz, please." She moaned.

"If we start, I won't stop, Liv. I want it just as bad as you." He pulled his pants up and over his throbbing erection. He knew how much guilt she would feel if she was late meeting her parents. He kissed her softly on the lips, "I don't want you to be late meeting your parents."

"Let me…" She begged.

"I'm good." He said, picking up her purse, handing it to her. "I'll walk you to your car."

She linked her fingers with his, "Baby, I wish you would let me take care of you."

He grabbed his coat from the closet. "I will, later, when we're not rushing and we can take our time."

She smiled and pressed the button on the elevator.

He walked her to her car, and waited in the parking lot, until she drove off. He returned to his apartment, slid under the sheets, trying not to think about the hard on he was experiencing.

X

Olivia rushed inside her apartment, sprinting toward her bedroom. She showered quickly and threw on a pair of gray leggings and a snowy white sweater. Her parents would arrive in an hour. She did a quick walk thru making sure the apartment was clean and no evidence of Fitz or Stephen staying there out in the open. She was slightly antsy and tried to calm down with a quick study session.

Her phone dinged alerting her to a text message. She glanced at the screen, smiling from the text from her father. It was a simple, "we're here." She closed her books and ran to the buzzer, pressing it until she heard her mother's voice. She hugged both of her parents as they walked inside the apartment. Olivia hung up their coats in the closet by the door and placed the many gifts her father carried under the tree. Maya smiled, turning to Olivia, "We have a surprise, Liv. Open the door."

"Harry!" Olivia screeched as she opened the door. He peeked from behind the wall.

"In the flesh, Pope. Merry Christmas." He said, pulling her in for a hug.

"This is a nice surprise." Olivia said, smiling at her parents.

"Your mother insisted." Eli said.

Olivia opened the bag of bagels at the kitchen counter, cutting them in half, she spread them across a plate in the shape of a Christmas tree. She opened the container of cream cheese and stuck a knife inside. She heated a pan on the stove, breaking a few eggs in a round dish, and whisked them. Harrison laid strips of bacon on a long square pan and inserted it in the oven. Once the bacon was done, she tossed the strips on a dish and plated the scrambled eggs.

"Breakfast is served." She announced to her parents.

"Looks yummy." Maya said, attempting to sit on the high kitchen stool.

Olivia swatted Harrison on the shoulder as he picked up a few pieces of bacon, and dropped them on his plate, "Harry, what made you come all the way to DC to see me? You've passed up so many of my invitations."

Harrison crunched a piece of bacon in his mouth, "Well, you weren't dating a rich boy from Cali."

Olivia rolled her eyes, spreading cream cheese on a sesame bagel, "What does Fitz have to do with your visit?"

"I still need to size him up, Liv. See what type of family he comes from." Harrison answered.

Maya interjected, "they seem like good people."

"Let me be the judge of that, Mrs. Pope. You think everyone has a heart of gold." Harrison said.

"What are you some type of detective?" Olivia said.

Harrison's eyes widened, "Maybe."

"Anyway, I want to open presents." Olivia said, clapping her hands while dropping her plate in the sink.

She handed her parents several red and green boxes that she'd wrapped herself. She'd bought her mother an engraved sterling silver locket with her and her dad's initials on it. She placed a picture of both of them inside the small frames. Maya cried as Olivia placed the locket around her neck. She'd bought her father several bottles of wine for his bar and a few different colored ties for his new business. Her parents brought her a Montblanc pen and a black leather Coach portfolio. "We are investing in you, Liv. These are for your new role as principal." Maya said, watching Olivia open the box.

Olivia wiped the tears that had formed at her eyes, "thank you mom and dad."

"Harry, I feel bad, I didn't get you anything." Olivia said.

"It's cool, Pope." He said, reaching inside his pocket, pulling out a small red box. "This is for you."

"Harry, what is this?" She asked with glee.

"Open it." He answered.

Olivia opened the red box, revealing a keychain with the words 'Brooklyn' on the front. She turned it over, and read the inscription on the back, 'It was all a dream.' She chuckled, after reading the words. It was a line from Notorious BIG, one of Harrison's favorite rapper.

Olivia gave a lopsided grin, "Thanks, Harry. I'll put it on my keys."

He chuckled, dropping a Lexus key in her hand, "The car I drove here…is yours."

"Harrison Xavier Wright!" Maya shouted, her voice high pitched, squeaking.

Harrison shrugged, glancing at Maya, "Mama Pope, I couldn't come all this way without a gift. What's the problem?"

Olivia swallowed hard, her eyes nervously wandered to her father, "Wow! Harry, I don't know what to say. This is a really big gift. Thank you."

"Son, I know you meant well with this gift, but it's definitely too much for Olivia." Eli said, noticing Olivia twirling the key in her hand.

Harrison stood, "With all due respect, Mr. Pope she can keep it or I can take it back. Show me the bathroom, Liv."

Olivia played with her name plate necklace around her neck, as she walked Harrison down the hall toward the bathroom. She knew Fitz wouldn't approve if she kept the car from Harrison., but he was family. When they were in high school, she used to call him her brother from another mother. She didn't want to hurt his feelings, because when Harrison disowned someone, there was no coming back in his life. She knew why Harrison bought the car. She hadn't fully shared everything about Harrison with Fitz. Sighing, she walked inside her bedroom, and closed the door, dialing Fitz's number.

"Hi beautiful," he answered.

"Hi, I miss you." She said.

"I miss you too. How's everything going with your family?" He inquired.

Olivia twisted the hem on her shirt, blurting out, "Guess what? Harrison surprised me. He's here."

"Oh. That's nice." Fitz said. "I'll let Ace know to prepare for one more."

"There's something else." Olivia said.

"Ok, I'm listening." He said.

"He bought me a car as my Christmas gift." Olivia said, excitedly.

He was quiet, unsure what to say. He didn't want to seem like the jealous type but he didn't want another man showering her with gifts, especially expensive ones. He could buy her a fleet of cars, if that's what she wanted. He cleared his throat, calming his thoughts, "Baby, wow…um…a car…that's a pretty big gift for someone who is not his girlfriend."

"I'm not keeping it, Fitz. I'll talk to him." She said, pushing off from the dresser. "Is your family there?"

"Yes. Emily has already raided my bar." Fitz laughed.

Olivia heard three knocks on her bedroom door. She twisted the handle, opening it. Harrison stood on the other side.

"See you soon, baby." Olivia said, hanging up the phone.

Harrison's nostrils flared and his jaw clenched.

"I told Fitz you were here, so we could add an extra seat at the table." Olivia said, holding up her phone.

"I need to talk to you. I'll drive." He quipped.

Harrison was silent the entire drive to Fitz's apartment. The only sound heard was the voice of the GPS directing them to the address. He zipped into the parking space, throwing the gear into park. "Let me make something clear, I've never had intimate feelings for you, Olivia. You know that. You've always been my little sister. This car is a gift for you. Take it or leave it."

Olivia responded in a soft tone, hoping to calm his irrational thoughts, "Harry, I'm not Madison. I know you miss her, but I can't replace her. We've talked about this. It wouldn't be right if I keep the car."

Her father knocked on the window, halting their conversation. Olivia held up her finger indicating she needed a few minutes.

Harrison sighed, looking out the window, keeping his emotions in check, "I know you're not her. It just hurts. She should be here, Liv." He said, banging his fist on the steering wheel.

Olivia reached her hand over to his arm, rubbing the tattoo of his sister's name. "Hey, I know the holidays are tough for you. I'm here if you want to talk."

"No, I don't want to talk about her today. Open the glove compartment." He said.

Olivia opened the glove compartment, pulling out a small pink bag. She tossed the tissue paper out, lifting a bottle of perfume from the bag.

"Its that funky ass perfume you like." He laughed.

"Can I keep the keychain?" She asked, pushing the door open, stepping out of the vehicle.

Harrison rounded the vehicle, draping his arm around her shoulders, "yeah you can keep it."

Olivia linked her fingers with his, pulling him toward the apartment building. They walked through the lobby, Olivia waved at the security guards. She waited until her parents reached where she stood, before pressing the button. The elevator sped up to the floor and dinged as the doors opened.

"What kind of Star Wars shit is this?" Harrison asked, stepping off the elevator.

Olivia chuckled, "Remember, I'm dating a rich boy from Cali."

She sauntered in the apartment, heading straight for Fitz, planting a soft kiss on his lips. "Hi!"

"Hi!" He said.

"Ugh, I think I just threw up in my mouth." Emily said, strolling over to where they stood.

"Hater." Olivia laughed, wrapping her arms around her in a tight embrace.

Eli extended his hand toward Fitz, "Fitzgerald, it's good to see you."

"Mr. Pope, how are you?" Fitz asked.

"I'm good." Eli answered.

"I'll see you next month for the hearing." Fitz said.

"Yes." Eli answered, nervously.

"Don't worry, I'll prep you before it begins." Fitz said, patting Eli on the shoulder.

Fitz stood at the bar, swirling the brown liquid around in his glass, thinking. Harrison strolled to where he stood, lifted the top off the Tito's vodka and poured a small amount in a glass. They stood in silence for a while until Fitz broke the tension, "It's good to see you Harrison."

"Likewise, Fitzgerald." Harrison said.

Fitz sipped his drink, allowing the liquid to slip down his throat. He placed the glass on the bar ledge, clearing his throat, "You bought Olivia a car."

Harrison raised his eyebrow with a grin, "I guess I overstepped a litle with the gift."

Fitz swallowed hard, trying to find the right words to say, "Olivia is her own woman. I don't make decisions for her. If she wants to keep the car, she can. I do think it's a bit much for someone who is not your girlfriend."

Harrison gulped down the remainder of his vodka, "You're right, Liv isn't my girlfriend, but I consider her family. If I want to buy her something, I will. I don't need approval from you or anyone else. However, I overheard the conversation she had with you on the phone. She loves you and respects her relationship with you. She didn't accept the car from me, so I'll take it back." He twisted the cap off the vodka, filling his glass with the clear liquid.

"Maybe you should hold off a little." Fitz said, covering the glass with his hand.

Harrison spoke in a broken tone, "I lost my sister years ago to a stray bullet. Sometimes I feel like I'm over it and I've moved on, but grief is a mother fucker. It always shows its ugly head around the holidays, reminding me just how shitty my life is. Anyway, I've tried dealing with it by being too overprotective of Olivia. Sometimes she has to put me in my place and kick my ass about it." He chuckled. "I don't mean any harm, Fitz. Behind this hard exterior, is a sad little boy who misses his sister."

Fitz felt horrible after Harrison's admission. He was ready to curse him out for buying the car, now he had to change his entire mood. "I'm sorry, Harrison. I had no idea." Fitz said, pulling his hand back from the glass.

Harrison guzzled the rest of the vodka, turning to Fitz. "I know about the shit that's happening at her school. She told me you had a plan in place to get rid of the assholes causing her strife. If you need my help with anything, let me know. I have people in high places that can make people disappear." He chuckled.

"I have it handled, but I'll let you know if I need you. Thanks." Fitz said, extending his hand to Harrison, shaking it.

Olivia walked over to the bar, wrapping her arms around Fitz's waist, "Baby we should leave for the restaurant."

"I'll let everyone know." He said, stepping out of her embrace.

She quickly turned to Harrison, asking, "You ok?"

He gave a quick nod, before pushing off the bar.

X

Olivia and Fitz walked hand in hand inside Charlie Palmer Steakhouse. She smiled as their families faces lit up from the elaborate decor. A tall evergreen tree sat in the corner adorned with gold and red ornaments, red ribbon swooped down the branches and a huge gold star sat on top. The long oblong table sat in the middle of the restaurant, covered with white linen, gold and white china sets were placed at each seat. White calla lilies flowed out of enormous water filled vases, posing as centerpieces. Alyssa took one last look at the decorations and smiled. She was pleased with the setup for Fitz and Olivia. Turning toward the door as it opened, she rushed to Olivia, hugging her.

Fitz walked to Alyssa, "Thank you for making sure everything was set up properly. I'm sorry I took you away from your family."

"No worries Mr. Grant. You're my family too. My parents are in town and I left my sister in charge. Hopefully the house is still standing when I return." She chuckled.

Fitz smiled, kissing Olivia briefly on the cheek, "You ready, beautiful?" Olivia nodded, squeezing his hand from the excitement she felt inside.

Alyssa gave a quick grin, whizzing past them, and bumping into Harrison.

"Oh, shit my bad. I should have been paying attention." Harrison said, looking up from his phone, dropping it in his pocket.

"I'm sorry, I was rushing. I should have been more careful." Alyssa said, backing up, giving him space, as she shifted from one foot to the other.

Harrison lifted her hand and kissed the back of it, "no need to apologize. Who might you be?"

"I'm Alyssa." She answered.

"Harrison. Olivia's overprotective brother." He said.

"Oh, ok. Funny, Olivia never mentioned she had a brother." Alyssa responded.

"I'm her brother from another mother." He chuckled, hoping she got the joke.

Alyssa cradled her planner next to her chest, "Oh ok. It was nice meeting you Harrison, but I'm on the clock."

"On the clock?" Harrison questioned.

"I work for Mr. Grant." Alyssa answered, pointing to Fitz.

"In what capacity?" Harrison asked.

"I'm his personal assistant. I made sure all of this happened tonight." Alyssa stated, pointing around the room.

Harrison looked around the room for the first time at the glowing decorations. "Wow everything looks beautiful, including you."

Alyssa blushed, "I should go. I have family in town."

"Wait," he said.

He was slightly nervous in her presence and couldn't understand why. Her straight black hair was pinned up in a bun, with a small green ribbon wrapped around it. She wore a black pencil skirt that hugged each curve and her white blouse fitted loosely, but tight enough to show she had a figure. Her lips were round and plump. The six-inch heels made her taller and she stood close to his shoulders. Harrison was never short on women. They practically threw themselves at him in Brooklyn. But Alyssa seemed different. Her demeanor wasn't pushy, but rather sweet. It was different from the women back in Brooklyn. Harrison was instantly attracted to her. He'd hoped his fresh haircut, red polo shirt and black slacks impressed her. He couldn't let her leave without trying to see if she would take his bait.

"Can I see your phone?" Harrison asked.

"What?" Alyssa asked out of curiosity.

"Your phone?" Harrison said.

Alyssa flashed her phone shaking it in front of his face.

Harrison chuckled, "Open it."

Alyssa was hesitant, but at the same time intrigued by what he was going to do next. "She entered her password quickly, and handed him the phone.

Harrison swiped to her contacts, entering his name and phone number, then he pressed on his name and pulled out his ringing phone from his pocket. He showed her the screen with his name flashing across it. He handed the phone back to her with a smile, "We should keep in contact."

Her breathing hitched from his forwardness as heat rushed to her face and core. She attempted to speak but nothing came out.

He chuckled at her response, placing a soft kiss on her cheek, "It was nice meeting you, Alyssa."

"Same, Harrison, same." Alyssa said, staring, as he walked to the table, and joined the rest of the group. It had been awhile since she dated. Work kept her busy. She smiled tapping her pen on her portfolio. She walked to the door, with a quick glance at the table, catching Harrison's eye. He gave her a wink and she blushed again, pushing the door open and leaving the restaurant.

X

Olivia stepped out of her black six-inch pumps, dropping them at the entrance of the elevator. Fitz threw his keys on the kitchen counter, leaning against it. His phone buzzed again and he took it out of his pocket, throwing it on the counter.

"Baby, let's get comfortable before we open presents." Olivia said, strolling back toward the bedroom.

Fitz followed her to the bedroom quickly slipping out of his clothes and showering. Olivia held up his phone as he stepped out of the bathroom, drying his hair with a towel. "Baby, someone is trying to reach you. Your phone keeps ringing."

"It's my father. He called earlier from his phone number and now he's calling from an unknown number." He sighed, "I'm not answering it. I want to spend some time with you, before it's no longer Christmas."

Olivia walked the phone over to him, placing it in his hand, "Something could be wrong. Maybe you should call him back."

His eyes glared through her, unsure if he heard her correctly, "Are you sure?"

"It's Christmas, Fitz. Call your father." She said, walking inside the bathroom, showering.

He waited until Olivia came out of the bathroom before calling his father. He pressed the call button on the screen and listened as it rung in his ear. When his father answered, he pressed the speaker button, allowing Olivia to hear the conversation. He placed the phone on the glass table, pulling Olivia down on his lap.

"Fitzgerald." Jerry said, answering on the third ring.

"Hi, Pops." Fitz said. "Merry Christmas."

"Merry Christmas, son. I didn't mean to harass you with my calls, but I really wanted to hear your voice. I've been sitting here watching old videos of you and Emily on Christmas day. It brought back so many good memories. Remember how you used to stuff your face with food so you could be the first one to open presents." Jerry chuckled.

"I remember." Fitz said, somberly.

"Anyway, I called Emily earlier to wish her a Merry Christmas. She answered and informed me everyone was in DC for the holiday. I wish I was there. Anyway, I called because bought a few gifts for you and Olivia. Do you want me to send them to you?" Jerry asked.

"I don't know, Pops. Maybe you should hold off on them." Fitz said.

Olivia sat up in Fitz's arms, "Hi, Jerry."

"Oh…um…hi Olivia." Jerry stuttered.

"You can send the gifts. It's fine." Olivia answered, settling her back against Fitz's chest.

"Perfect. I'll send them first thing in the morning." Jerry answered.

"Ok, Pops, I'll talk to you later." Fitz said.

"Goodnight, son. Merry Christmas." Jerry said.

Fitz hung up the phone, turning it off. He was done being disturbed.

Olivia smiled, sauntering toward the Christmas tree, "Presents?"

Fitz gathered up her gifts in his arms, placing them in front of Olivia, "You go first."

Olivia tore through the first gift like a little kid, revealing a black Hermes leather purse. "Oh my God, Fitz!" She squealed, throwing the strap over her shoulder, sashaying around the room.

Fitz chuckled.

She opened the remainder of the gifts, revealing a rose-colored Movado watch, the lavender and vanilla lotion from Bath and Body Works she loved, her favorite Dolce and Gabbana perfume, several dresses from Michael Kors, and lingerie from La Perla. She threw her hands around his neck, peppering his face with soft kisses, "Thank you, baby. I love everything."

He smirked, holding up the navy-blue thong and lacy bra, "This is for me."

Olivia swatted his shoulder as he stood from the couch, "One more present." He said, disappearing inside his office, returning with a long roll of paper, tied with a red bow. "I think you know what this is," he said, arching his eyebrow and passing her the roll of paper.

Olivia unrolled it across the glass table in front of her, gasping at the blueprints of his new law firm. Her eyes instantly darted to the right side of the paper, remembering exactly where the design of the school was positioned. She ran her fingers over her name, glancing back at his soft blue eyes, "I…I saw Peter in Vegas after everything happened. I had no idea you were including me in your plans." Her eyes watered as a single tear fell, "Thank you for loving me, Fitz."

He knelt down next to her, pointing to the blank space under her name, "You can design the school any way you want. The sky's the limit, Olivia."

Her lips instantly crashed against his, knocking him to the floor. Tongues dueled as their hands roamed, and caressed every ounce of their body. He pulled back from the kiss, leaning up on his elbows, "One more thing you missed on the blueprint."

"What is it?" She asked, sitting up, looking over the document again.

He dropped a 2-carat diamond heart necklace on the paper. Her eyes widened and her breathing hitched, "Fitz, it's…it's beautiful." Olivia said, cradling the necklace in the palm of her hand.

"I figured it was time for a new necklace." He said, lifting it toward her neck, letting it fall above her chest, before closing the clasp.

"Baby, you outdid yourself." Olivia said, wiping at her eyes, handing Fitz several boxes and gift bags. "These are for you."

Fitz unwrapped the gifts one by one, revealing several Brooks Brothers ties, monogrammed FTGIII shirts, colorful dress socks, Perry Ellis cologne, love coupons she designed on her computer, and a small box of cigars. The ones he loved buying when they were in California. "Thank you, baby." He said.

She had one last gift in her hand, she placed the small wrapped box in his palm, "I have one more gift."

Fitz took the gift and peeled back the paper. She stopped his movements, placing her hand on top of his, "Before you open it, Fitz, I need to say something."

"Ok." He said.

She tried to contain the tears that peaked at the corner of her eyes, but couldn't. They flowed down her cheeks like a fountain, "I'm so in love with you Fitzgerald Grant, sometimes it scares me. I've never been this deeply in love with anyone. I love you because of the person you are…generous, easy-going, and kind hearted. You're open and honest with me about your thoughts and feelings, even when I try to shy away from my feelings. You encourage me when I'm down. I love all of the gifts you've given me, but the one I cherish the most is…" She placed her hand over his heart, "this is my favorite gift of all. I love you, baby."

He was speechless. He turned quickly from Olivia, hiding the tear that trickled down his cheek. He cleared his throat and continued to open the black velvet box. His eyes widened at the platinum Rolex watch, shining brightly in the case.

"Wow!" Fitz said, excitedly. "This is nice, baby."

"I picked one with a blue face because it's similar to your eye color. Turn it over and read the back." Olivia said.

Turning the watch over, he read,

Just in the nick of time I found you

143

Olivia

He flicked his wrist, slipping the watch over his hand, "baby, this is...I love it. Thank you. What does 143 mean?"

Olivia smiled, "1 means…I…4 means…love…and 3…means…you."

"You're the love of my life, Olivia Pope. I'll never take it off." He said, pulling her on top of him, shaking the watch on his wrist.

Olivia smiled as she rested her head on his chest, playfully running her fingers through each strand of his sandy brown curls. She kissed his cheek, softly. "I had a wonderful Christmas, Fitz."

"Me too, beautiful." He said, lifting her left hand from his hair, kissing the finger closest to her pinky. "Have you ever thought of wearing something on this finger?"

Olivia looked at her hand and realized what he was asking. "Yeah, something big and sparkly."

He kissed her finger again, placing it back in his hair. He was ready. He'd hoped Olivia was too. It was time to put his plan in motion. He was going to ask her to marry him.

Thank you for reading! I hope you enjoyed this chapter. Did you enjoy their Christmas together? What about Harrison and Alyssa? Are they on their way to a budding romance? Until next time. As always check out the visual on twitter. Don't forget to leave a review and let me know what you think.