It's been a full two weeks in the hospital and Liv is going stir crazy. Fitz reluctantly goes into the office for 4 hours on Tuesday and Thursdays. He knows he needs to be a presence but of course his mind is not there. He has been working out his plan for Keith which is sure to put this situation to rest. He hasn't told Liv yet because he doesn't want to give her any stress.
"Are you sure this is how you want to handle this Keith Young situation?" Cyrus asks.
"Yes, I am sure. This no doubt has to do with Liv. He was in Hawaii when they met. He was then miraculously in St. Lucia while she was there. I want to believe that was a coincidence. That he's not stalking her. Then there's the flowers. What if that SOB sent my wife those flowers. I can't let him get away with that."
"We don't know that he sent her the flowers but yes he needs to be dealt with," Cyrus finishes.
"Yes he does. You don't mess with me and you sure as hell don't mess with my wife."
"Speaking of wives, specifically the one removed…"
"What about her? Or, should I say what now?"
"Actually, she found a buyer for the house, above market value."
"So she will get about 12 million for it."
"Yes, the buyer loved the location and the major renovations you did on the house."
"Well good for Mellie," he says, almost uninterested. He looks down at his phone, waiting for Liv to text him back.
"Mellie sent me the check to be made in her name to the Substance abuse center."
Fitz looks up from his phone "She did. I'm surprised."
"Yes, she said you were right." Cyrus explains as Fitz is taken aback.
"Did she look well to you?"
"Yes, she informed me that she's moving to Napa Valley for a while. She has 45 days to move completely out of the house."
Fitz lets out a deep sigh, "She's going to be with her parents for a while."
"Yes, she is."
"Maybe it will be good for her. I hope it is," he answers as Liv finally answers.
"How's Liv?" Cyrus asks.
"She's good! No more episodes," he answers as he knocks on his desk. "I just hope it stays that way. My mom is with her right now. Liv made Maya go home so she was properly packed to stay for a few weeks after the babies are born."
"Liv is a strong woman Fitz. They are going to be okay."
Fitz gets up from his desk, "I'm just in my head right now. Walking in that bathroom, finding her on that ground with blood splattered, I can't explain it. It scared the hell out of me. I didn't breathe until she opened her eyes to look at me."
"And she opened those curious eyes and teased you. She's strong," Cyrus reminds him.
"I am just anxious. I am anxious for her. I am anxious for the babies. I feel like I won't be okay until I can look at all three of them together. You know the perfect photo of her holding our girls looking up at me with that sheepish grin she gets sometimes."
"Why don't you get to the hospital? You have done all the major stuff this morning. Marcus is handling the finalization on the Keith situation."
Fitz smiles. He was desperate to leave and be with Liv. "Thanks Cyrus!"
Abby and Quinn are visiting with Liv, giving Bibi a little break. They are laughing and joking around, acutely aware of all the machines that surround Olivia and the babies.
"I can't believe Fitz told you that you couldn't sneak me food."
Quinn hands her a bag of freshly prepared healthy food that tastes much better than what the hospital has to offer. "I promised him I would fix you something good and something healthy, healthy and good."
Liv rolls her eyes jokingly, "He worries enough for the both of us."
"He just loves you more than anything," Abby answers.
"I know, I know he's worried. It was scary and I was scared."
"He had to be freaked out to see you lying there with blood everywhere," Quinn says, laying Liv's food out on the tray in front her.
"It was and I got it. He is just trying to take care of us." She clears her throat wanting to change the subject. "What is going on with you two? What's going on in Los Angeles? I am stuck behind these walls."
"Well, David's been talking a lot about marriage. I am not quite sure how I feel about it yet. I suppose we live together, so it's only logical. I just don't know what I think about it."
"He's a good guy Abby and he's really good to you. Give it a chance. I am not saying jump into marriage but you need to give him a real chance. I've known you for 6 years. The guys you have semi dated have all been flaky and Harrison…"
"I'm not mad with her about that. Sexually that was a very good decision," Quinn interrupts with a laugh.
"Well, even Harrison is settling down. He tries not to be serious about Candace but he is. They are this close to moving in together. He starts to get those stars in his eyes when he talks about her. He recognizes her for what she is with him."
"You don't think I recognize and see David," Abby says defensively.
"No, I think you see it and you are afraid of it. As afraid of him as I was of Fitz. I was afraid my past would turn him away from me. You are afraid you aren't good enough for him. Just like you were afraid you couldn't run the station." She grabs her hand, "You'll be a good girlfriend, if you let yourself be."
"Liv, I didn't pay for a session," Abby says with a laugh and tears.
"And you'll be a good wife too," Liv finishes.
"Don't worry Abs, she shrunk me a few weeks. Before I knew it I was admitting how much I liked Charlie."
"And how much do you like Charlie?" Abby asks.
"Enough that he's the first man I ever went down on," she says as her face grows red. "I'm the least prudish person I know but I was prudish about that."
"That's serious….." Abby says.
"I told her to explore the reasons why she is allowing all these firsts with Charlie," Liv answers.
"The answer is scaring the shit out of me." Quinn says with shivers that makes them all laugh.
"Speaking of men. When Stephen was here the day after your accident, Quinn thought it wasn't a good idea for Stephen to be here. What's up with that? Quinn wouldn't tell me. " Abby asks not forgetting what happened.
"Stephen was here. Fitz didn't tell me that. Although, I can't say I'm surprised."
"Why does he hate Stephen?" Abby presses.
"He thinks Stephen wants Liv," Quinn answers.
"He thinks Stephen hasn't given up on us having a chance again."
"Well is he right?"
"He told me he hates that he let his chance get away. He regrets not fighting for me when Edison and started dating. And he regrets that Fitz came along and stole his chance but he's happy that I'm happy."
Abby hesitates, "Every man says that to save face. No doubt his ego is bruised and he's mad as hell at Fitz. Not to mention he's Fitz's divorce lawyer."
Liv looks at her, knowing that she's right. "I suppose you are right." She grows silent. She knows there are things that bother her about the whole situation but she doesn't want to dig into it. She shuffles in the bed. The babies are extra active, the closer they get to the big day. She zones out.
"Earth to Liv," Quinn says.
"Sorry! What happened?"
"You okay! Should I call the nurse," Abby asks. Just as she says this, Fitz turns the knob to the door. He hears their voices and stops.
"No, do not do that. Fitz will be here any minute and he will get nervous if he sees too many nurses coming in here. He will freak out."
"Liv, you are really worried about him aren't you?"
She hesitates to answer, "I do. I know he's worried about me. He sits in that chair over there and sleeps in it. It's killing his back. He's not sleeping well because he doesn't want to sleep in the bed and get into a deep sleep. On top of that, he's not eating well." Liv is growing upset. Fitz can hear the worry in her voice. "And at night, I know he's not sleeping because he's staring at me and making sure me and the babies are okay. I act like I'm sleeping but I see him."
"Maybe you should tell him," Quinn says.
"Tell him that' he's too worried about me."
"No, tell him you are worried about him," Quinn responds.
Fitz makes enough noise to announce his arrival, "Hello Ladies!"
They all look up and smile. He walks over to Liv and gives her a kiss and then gives a lingering kiss to her stomach. "Hi," she whispers.
"Hi," he answers. "How are you feeling?"
"Better now that you are here," she answers. As if on cue, Liv starts to laugh. Fitz, Quinn, and Liv look confused. "The twins are doing cartwheels in here. The moment they heard daddy."
Fitz reaches down and talks to her stomach. Quinn and Abby are mesmerized by him and how he handles her. They motion behind that they are in love. "I know mommy's boring and she's not as much fun as me but you have to give her a break." Liv smacks him on the head playfully.
"Boring," she repeats.
"They are gonna be daddys girls."
"Not if I can help it."
"We are going to go," Abby says.
"No, actually, I want you all to stay a little longer. I have something I need to take care of. If you don't mind."
"I guess we can stay," Abby answers.
"Sure we can," Quinn agrees.
Liv instantly looks disappointed, "Where are you going? You just got here."
"I promise I won't be long," He says kissing her softly on the lips.
"Okay," she answers as she never breaks away from his lips.
He turns to Abby and Quinn, "I owe you guys one. I promise I won't be long." He turns and goes out of the door.
"Where is he going?" Quinn says.
Liv tries to hide her two prominent emotions, fear and excitement. "I wish I knew."
Keith is sitting at his desk, in his showroom. There are elaborate furniture pieces laid out across the large space. He does have an eye for design. He started the company because someone saw his furniture in a friend's home. He built the pieces, they were recognized and he got commission to do more. He's finally made enough money and a name for himself to have a warehouse and hire more workers. He's found the space and they started moving in two weeks ago. He looks up to see Eduardo come in.
"What do you want?"
"I need to talk to you."
"They fired you from the child. What do we have to talk about? Or, do you want to talk about how you lost the job."
"I just came to warn you man."
Keith comes from around his desk, "Warn me of what."
"That Grant guy, he knows about you."
At first Keith laughs, because that can't be. "He knows of me but he knows nothing about me. At least not yet."
"No man, he's got some kind of guy. You know like the mafia man. That delivers his messages and he delivered me one a couple of weeks ago."
Keith realizes what Eduardo is saying, "What was his name?"
"It was Tom something but man, he's been watching us. Watching you come to visit me all the time."
"What did he say and why the hell didn't you tell me this sooner?"
Eduardo laughs, "I would have but after you backed out of our deal. I figured it was on you man."
"I didn't back out of our deal. You couldn't do the simple job I gave you, so I had to take matters into my own hands. But what did he say."
"He just came to my house man. He let me know that Mr. Grant would be dealing with you himself. I don't know what it means."
"Damn," Keith says annoyed. "What did you tell him?"
"Everything! I told him everything."
"You ratted me out and now you come to warn me."
"You should have kept your word. I gotta go man. He could be watching us now," he hurriedly turns and leaves.
Keith goes back to his desk. This was certainly not supposed to happen. Grant wasn't supposed to ever figure him out. He was supposed to blindside him and then everything else would fall into place. What's his next move?
Both Abby and Quinn got to separate emergency calls that send them out. The nurse is with Olivia to check her vitals. Liv is used to the routine now. So far it has been an easy street for her. No more episodes. Her blood pressure and glucose is doing as to be expected. They have been monitoring the amniotic sacs. Liv is studying the nurse.
"Is everything okay?" Liv asks.
"Everything looks good Mrs. Grant!"
Liv takes a deep breath, "I worry when you all don't say anything and I worry when you do, even if it is good news. I am officially a worry wart."
"No, you are an expectant mother that's all. It's getting close to the big day."
"I'm so nervous," Liv says.
"It's okay. It's totally natural. Everything is going to be fine. I will come back shortly, so we can help you in for your bath."
"I was hoping I could do that," the voice says. Liv moves her head to see Fitz standing sits a bag down in the chair facing her bed. Liv is immediately flushed with embarrassment as she looks up at the nurse.
"Hello ," the nurse answers.
"Hi Zoe! You are on duty tonight," Fitz says going over to Liv reaching down to kiss her.
"Yes sir!" Zoe smiles uncontrollable. She's young and fresh out of school and totally and harmlessly smitten with Fitz. Liv actually thinks it's adorable. "Sir, you know I can't let you do that."
"Yes you can! I will make sure she is bathed thoroughly well," he says mischievously. Liv nudges him with his elbow. "I promise, there will be no hanky panky."
"Fitz," Liv whispers.
"Let's go outside," he says to Zoe as he opens the door for her.
"Fitz," Liv says again as he turns around and motions her to stay silent.
Fitz is gone for a few minutes. Liv experiences some first time pain that catches her off guard. She tries to push through it. It only lasts a minute or two but it seems like forever. She shuffles to move up in the bed and quickly looks over to the monitors to see if they react to nothing happens as Fitz comes back in.
"Okay, just took a little charm and the promise of a harmless date," Fitz jokes.
Liv looks for something to throw at him as he comes closer to her. He reaches down to kiss her, "Aren't you kissing the wrong woman. Go find Zoe," she muses folding her arms and turning her face away.
"I am just kidding. I am just kidding," he says kissing her temple. She lets down her guard and turns to him.
"I guess I couldn't blame you. I am fat everywhere. You can't even put your arms around me. She's cute and bubbly and attractive."
He turns her face to him, "First of all, she's not my type or should I say, my hue choice. She will never be as sexy as you and you get sexier everyday. The only thing stopping me from touching every part of your body right now is the fact that we are in a hospital," he says kissing the crook of her neck that is still exposed to her.
"It's gonna be a long time before I get my body back. If I get it back," she pouts.
"You'll be sexy no matter what."
"You are just saying that."
"I love you. That's why I'm saying that," He lifts her chin up, "Look at me." She lifts her eyes to meet his. "I love you Mrs. Pope-Grant. I'm gonna be gray and old with a beer belly soon. I hope you still love me."
"I suppose," she jokes."
"You and I are going to take a nice shower and then you and I have a date."
"What?" Liv answers confusingly.
"You need to feel special and tonight is going to be special."
"How did you get her to agree to that?"
"I have my ways," he says, pushing the button for the nurse.
"How are we going to have a date?" She asks.
"You will see," he answers as he kisses her hand. Zoe comes in.
"You have 1 hour ," Zoe explains as she is carefully removing the patches from. She's getting Liv ready as Fitz takes the large bag into the private bathroom they have. It has a stand-in shower with a bench on it. There's also a seat in there that they use for her sometimes. He gets the shower going as Zoe gets her ready.
"That's perfect," Fitz says.
Liv gets help sitting up on the side of the bed, "How did he talk you into this?"
"He is very charming," Zoe smiles.
"Tell me about it. Look where I am," Liv says, pointing at her stomach.
Zoe chuckles as she helps her into the bathroom for Fitz who's awaiting. Little does Liv know she has even more of a surprise when she comes out of her room.
Keith is now in his apartment strategizing about what he wants to do with Grant Realty. How does he want to deal with the man who's gotten one up on him. His phone rings. He's still doing business. "Thanks for getting back to me.I want to talk to you about acquiring the other floors of the building." He is stopped by the person on the other end.
"What the hell do you mean? How did this happen? I'll be damned. How did you let Grant do this?" He's irate at this point, screaming into the phone and he then hangs up.
He swipes the papers from his table. His anger has risen and you can see his face distorted with venom as he slams out of his door in search of alcohol.
Fitz and Liv are in the shower. Fitz has sat Liv gently on the bench in the standup shower. Her legs are more tired now. Her ankles and feet are swollen. The hot water is steaming the entire bathroom as he's massaging her feet and legs. Her moans are just above a squeak as he massages the pressure points to perfection.
"Fitz, we can't go on a date. There is no way they are going to let me out of this hopital," she sighs as he applies pressure to her calves.
"I know that," he answers as he keeps massaging.
"So what are you doing?"
"Would you let me just work my magic?" He asks.
He gets off his knees and lifts her up, bringing her over to the hot water. She's wrapped her hair before entering the shower. He lathers the sponge and begins to lather her body and wash. They stand under the hot. For a brief moment the hot water washes the stress from them.
"That feels good," Liv says as he washes her legs, while on his legs again. She looks down at him. "Thank you," she says. He gets up, dropping a kiss on her shoulder.
"Anytime," he answers as he gently washes her stomach, arms, and back.
"How do you think of everything I need and when I need it?"
"I told you before, it's because I love you so much."
"It's my turn," she says as she takes the sponge from him.
"I'm sure," she says. She stops and looks him up and down, "You are long, so you may have to get some places on your own." They both laugh as she begins to lather his torso and up.
"No touching my junk Mrs. Grant," he teases. She winks at him as they both laugh and his throat catches. He looks down.
"Ok, I won't," they both laugh.
They get dressed and Fitz won't let her leave the bathroom. He keeps looking at his watch.
"How are you feeling?" Fitz asks.
"I want to know why we can't go out yet. And I am fine," she says pouting and folding her arms.
"The surprise is almost ready….stop pouting," he says walking over to her, placing a kiss gently on her is a knock at the door. That was the password for him to know his surprise was ready. He hears the door close. "Okay, we can go out now." He says, turning the door latch and opens it to let her out. She steps out of the door. There is a table with a tablecloth with candles. The whole room is decorated for romance. Liv's face exactly what he expected it to be. Shocked and surprised as her eyes scan the room. There is light music playing in the background.
"How did you do this?" She asks as he eases her down to the chair.
"It took a little begging and pleading but I worked my magic."
She notes the covered plates on the table before taking off the top, she asks, "Is this fancy hospital food or real food?"
"It's real food. Dr. Slauson said I could treat you a little bit but only for tonight."
"Does it have taste?"
"Immense…"
She opens the top and there are chili dogs waiting for her with sweet potato fries instead of her go to chili cheese french fries topped with bacon and green onions and sour cream.
"Oh my God….Pinks! You got me Pinks."
"I figured you and my girls deserved a treat."
"If I weren't carrying two bowling balls, I'd leap over this table and give you a lap dance," she jokes.
"Damn," he laughs. He watches as she scoffs down one hot dog. She's in pure bliss and he's never been happier.
"Something with real salt in it," she drools over the hot dog.
"I don't think you've ever looked at me the way you are looking at that hot dog," he jokes.
"I could be looking at this hot dog and thinking precisely about you. It's long, slightly salty with a hint of sweet," she utters. There is a look of need in her eyes.
"Mrs. Grant, you are in a hospital room. You naughty naughty woman."
"It has been so long since I've tasted you…"
He hums a little moan, "6-8 weeks after the babies are born..we should schedule a taste test date."
She gives him the eye, as she bites into her third hot dog, "This is taking the edge off," as she waves off his advances.
He laughs as he gets up from his chair and moves over to her, he kisses the chili that drips from her chin, "I love you."
"I love you too," she says, licking her finger which is drenched in mustard and chili.
"I just wanted you to know how special you are. That's why I wanted us to have this little date. God knows we won't be able to have a date for a while. You are making me a daddy again. You are going through all of this for me, for us. You know I'm pretty certain that you are the best thing that ever happened to me. I couldn't ask for anything more."
She smudges some of the chili on his lips and licks it off, "Thank you for this."
Fitz hums again, "Can you be pregnant all the time?" He chuckles as she guts him with her elbow.
"No sir," she laughs as they continue dinner.
After their 2 hours is up, Zoe comes in. They get Liv dressed back in her hospital attire. She checks her blood pressure and notates on the chart. She's getting Liv hooked up to the machines. Fitz is packing all the stuff away.
"Thank you so much for helping Fitz. I hope you won't get into much trouble."
"No, I won't. Are you feeling any type of discomfort Mrs. Grant." Liv motions nods that she hasn't. With Fitz in the room, she doesn't want to scare him. A pain hits her right then as she rubs her stomach in comfort to calm the girls down.
"Thank you very much," Fitz echoes. "I owe you Zoe."
Zoe leaves, leaving them alone again. "Thank you so much for this," Liv says to him.
"Well I had to be creative and my wife and I needed some lovey dovey time," he answers, reaching over and kissing. "What else can I do for you?"
"Can you lay with me until I fall asleep?"
"You don't even have to ask," he says, getting into bed behind her softly and wrapping her gently, careful not to entangle any of the cords attached. They fall asleep this way for the night, wrapped in each other's arms.
Week 34:
Dr. Slauson is in checking Liv's vitals and numbers and checking the babies. Fitz is almost biting his nails with worry. Something on the monitor is bothering her, he can tell. Liv can tell too.
"Dr. Slauson, what's wrong? I can tell."
"I don't like the elevation of some of your numbers."
"You've been on a very strict diet and we've monitored your sodium intake. These numbers are the total opposite. We need to do a check on the amniotic sacs and the babies. There may be a large buildup fluid in one of them, which we don't want."
"So, are you going to take them early?" Fitz asks, panicked.
"No, we may have to relieve some of the buildup. We need her to make it this other 2 weeks." Dr. Slauson notices the look on Liv's face, that's not quite worry, not quite fear but she's deep in thought. "Olivia, have you been feeling anything weird. Any type of pain."
Olivia tries not to answer. She looks down, almost turning into a child. "Liv," Fitz says, knowing immediately she's keeping something from him.
"Olivia," Dr. Slauson says.
Liv takes a deep breath, "3 weeks ago these pains started but I was sure it was braxton hicks. But it's been like a stabbing pain but not all the time. But I could tell the girls are getting a little agitated."
"Liv," Fitz says, trying not to sound angry.
"Olivia, you should have alerted one of the nurses."
"I know, I just…" She shakes her head.
"Let me get the nurse in here so we can prepare to take a look at your stomach and see what's going on in there. We will have to take you up to the 3rd floor." Dr. Slauson announces as she walks out to talk to the nurses.
There is a dead silence in the room. Liv knows that Fitz is upset but trying to be calm. "Fitz, before you say anything. I haven't been in constant pain."
"Liv, you should have told me the moment it started. What if it is something serious?"
Liv drops her head, feeling the weight of what he's saying, "And if something happens to them, it will be my fault."
"No, that's not what I am saying. I just don't want you to keep anything from me. You know I'm a big boy and the most important thing to me is you, Victoria, and them."
"I didn't want you to worry," Liv says, knowing that argument doesn't hold water.
"Now, I am jumping out of my skin afraid…."
"I'm sorry," She answers.
"I know you are worried about me too baby. That's why I am sleeping in that bed every night, cause I know you are worried."
"You heard what I told Abby and Quinn," she says.
"Yeah I heard it. I would sleep on the floor if I had to. If it meant being here when you need me."
"I am sorry I didn't say anything. If anything else happens..I promise, I'll tell you."
He walks over to her, "I'm the man of the man of the house. It's my job to worry about you and take care of you. I got you into this mess," he jokes.
She tries to lighten the mood, "I should have kept my knees together. Mama's always right."
He kisses her lips gently, "Are we talking about the same mother who bought you edible chocolate?"
"Are you talking about my mother?"
"No, I love her. Can we ask her to bring some more with her? We can use it in the future."
"I am not asking my mother for that," she laughs as the nurse comes in ready to take Olivia upstairs.
"You can come too Mr. Grant," the nurse announces as they go to the third floor.
As Dr. Slauson expected, there is some fluid buildup which they do an emergency procedure on to drain some of it. One of the babies as she also suspected early on is getting a little more food than the other and baby A is moving further and further toward the birth canal causing cord entanglement. It has to be managed for the next couple of weeks for 's not as dire as feared but enough to keep Liv on an even closer eye.
Monday morning of Week 35:
Dr. Slauson has decided she wants to try and stretch another week, for the sake of Baby B. Fitz is at the office. He had to come in and do some work and sign some legal documents. He's relieved Maya is coming at the end of the week but even more relieved his mother has been there for him.
"That was a pretty brilliant move Boss," Marcus says to Fitz.
"I had no interest in that man but messing with my business and messing with my…" He stops himself, realizing Marcus doesn't know the short history of Keith and Olivia.
"I don't understand what his beef is with you. You outbid the company he has a stake in, so what."
"I am sure this is not just business. It's personal. I am going to treat it as such. He made it personal and I'm going to finish it."
"What are you going to do with your new building? Are you going to kick him out?"
"No, that would be too much fun."
Marcus gathers the papers, "I am not going to ask any more questions, except one. How's Olivia doing?"
"She's good. She's good. The doctor is a little bit worried about one of the babies weight but the procedure went great and did what they needed it to do."
"I'm glad. I'm going to go get these to the lawyer. Let me know if you need anything else."
"I will," Fitz answers. "Thanks Marcus."
Fitz texts Liv and gets no answers. He then text his mother asking, "Is she okay?"
"She's good, asleep, but good."
"I have a few phone calls to finish up, I'll be there shortly."
"Take your time, she is okay."
Fitz smiles, he's about to make one of his phone calls when Brittany buzzes in, "Sir, there is a Mr. Keith Young here to see you."
Fitz gets up, puts his jacket on. He sends a text, quickly then buzzes Brittany back, "Send him in."
Keith comes in, squaring his shoulders, as Fitz walks closer, "Mr. Young," Fitz says. He walks over to the mini bar he has, "Would you like a drink? I am sure you can use one," he says pouring a glass of scotch and offering him one.
"No, I don't want a drink."
"I've been expecting you," Fitz says as he passes the drink again. "Are you sure?" Fitz says, as he offers him one anyway. "I know why you are here."
Keith takes the drink almost snatching it out of his hand, "You've been expecting me. Are you having me followed?"
"You keep your enemies close Mr. Young, wouldn't you agree?"
"You are one sly son of a bitch and all the articles say you are nothing like your father." he says.
"I'm nothing like my father when it comes to business. But when it comes to my wife and my family, I am a son of a bitch." Fitz says as he sits behind his desk and crosses his leg, taking a sip.
"I was going to buy that building."
"And I beat you to it."
"I want to buy it back," Keith says.
"You see, you tried to sabotage my building. You cost me millions of dollars. I don't care about the money. I can fix that but this is not about business Mr. Young."
"What is this about other than business?" Keith asks as he glimpses over at a more than loving photo of Olivia and Fitz behind his chair.
"This is about my wife, you and I both know it and I won't tolerate it."
"I am aware that your wife is your wife, unfortunately."
"Why did you come here Mr. Young?"
"Since you know it was me, what do you plan to do?"
"That all depends on you ."
"Are you going to tell the police it was me?"
"No, I'm going to let you decide your own fate," Fitz answers as Huck appears in the door. Fitz motions him in. Keith turns to see who is there. "Mr. Young, this is Huck. Huck is one of my trusted associates. He's going to escort you out and explain some things to you about how this will go going forward."
"You've got a hitman," Keith says, his eyes stirring with confusion and fear.
Fitz gets up and straightens his jacket, "Have no fear Mr. Young, you are more of a use to me alive and obedient, than dead." He is about to walk out of the door, he turns to Keith, "If you ever go near my wife again, you won't have to worry about a hitman." Fitz goes out of the office directing Brittany to reschedule his calls as he leaves. Huck looks at Keith with a stare that worries him.
Keith arrives at Fitz's office accompanied by Huck. Keith is sporting a broken hand and nothing but fear. They walk into Fitz's office. Fitz has just secured another New York deal which now involves the services of Keith. He and Huck enter the office.
Fitz gets up to greet them both, "I hear you are going back to New York." Fitz says slyly.
"Do I have a choice?"
"You always have a choice Mr. Young. You always have options."
"Or I go to jail?"
Fitz laughs, "Or something like that."
"What happened to your hand?"
"I had an accident," he says looking up at Huck.
"It took him a little too long to sign the contract. I tried not to use excessive force," Huck answers sarcastically.
"I am sure the contract was clear as well as Huck. You are to never miss rent payments. If you do, you get a visit from Tom or Huck. If I were you I would rather it be Tom. You don't ever go near my wife ever again. And whenever I call you for furniture for one of my buildings, you make free of charge. You keep your business but you sell your stake in Pinnacle Realty."
"You are taking that from me," Keith says.
"Or, I can bring my tapes to the police of Eduardo admitting to what you two did, you did."
"You got me by balls," Keith answers.
"Hardly, I let you keep them." Fitz answers.
"I'll make sure he gets to the airport in one piece," Huck promises.
"Do I need to be escorted?"
"If Mr. Grant wants you escorted, you'll be escorted," Huck says, grabbing him by the arm, lifting him from the chair.
Fitz stops him, before he leaves, "Why my wife? Why me?"
"Because I hate it when some white dude comes along and takes one of our fine sisters and makes her his own personal reparation. Your kind just go through life taking what you want. She deserves to be a brother who is going to treat her right. Not a white dude who's trying to prove his immunity to history."
Fitz studies his answers, "I'm under no fairytale that I'm not immune to the history you speak of. I know that history and I don't ignore it. I don't live in the past. I am living in a present where I fell in love with a woman who happens to be a different color than me. I never saw her color. Call me naive! I fell in love with Olivia and I am sure I would have done that no matter what color she is. But I have a question for you.."
"What is that?" Keith asks.
"What should a white dude like me, deduce for a black man falling in love with a white woman? Should I see it as a black man's experiment? Or, should I see it for what it is, two people who just fell in love. Love should be blind in my eyes Mr. Young," he finishes.
Keith is taken aback by his question, he turns to Fitz, "For what it's worth, I never wanted anyone to get hurt. That's why I instructed Eduardo to do it after hours. I just wanted to fuck with you and I guess I fucked myself," he answers as he leaves.
Fitz looks at his watch knowing he has to get going. The grandmothers are putting last touches on things in the house to get ready for the babies. Victoria volunteered to stay with Liv for the afternoon. He needs to go and relieve her.
Liv is sitting in her bed with Victoria doing her homework across from Liv. Liv was shocked when Victoria asked to sit with Liv while the grandmothers worked. She knows the protocol, the moment something happens she's to call her dad immediately. Liv is watching her with a smile on her face.
"Thanks so much for wanting to sit with me."
"It's quiet for the most part. Calculus is kicking my ass," she says and then stops. "I'm sorry."
"I won't tell if you won't plus I'm sure your father and I have said much worse."
"I wish I could help but I've never been good at math, especially Calculus," Liv studies her, "What else is on your mind?"
Victoria laughs, "I can get nothing past you."
"No you can't! Plus on a good day, I'm a shrink remember," she jokes.
"Remember that guy...boy...I met in St. Lucia, Hunter?"
"Yes, they live in Italy. His mom is a fashion designer, right?"
"Yes, that's him."
"What about him?" Liv asks. Mellie is about to enter her room and she hears them talking. She stops.
"Well, they are moving here in the fall."
"Oh, that's nice honey. You seem to really like him and he likes you."
Victoria takes a deep breath, "Yeah I do. We talk all the time on the phone. Dad's been ignoring my cell phone bill," she says with a laugh.
"He hasn't ignored it. He wants to try to be a cool dad, that's all," Liv answers.
"He kissed me in St. Lucia."
Liv smiles for her, like a proud mother, "He kissed you."
"Yes and it was weird but it was nice."
"Was it THE first kiss?"
Victoria shakes her head saying it was.
"Your first kiss should be weird. I mean...it's kissing. But it's even better when it's nice." Liv answers as she wants to say the right thing. "Did he use his tongue?"
"He asked me first," she answers.
"I like him already, he asked first."
"I let him..it was okay."
"Okay, as long as you were comfortable with it and you did because you wanted to." She waits for her to sort out her thoughts that she can see is running through her head.
"What if he really wants to date when he moves here?"
"He told you that he's moving here. I think he already knows he wants to date or you can be old fashioned and say, go steady," Liv laughs.
"What do you think Dad will say?"
"You will be Sweet 16 soon. I think your dad will be relieved this would be your first real boyfriend," Liv says with a laugh.
"When you kissed dad the first time was it weird?"
Mellie waits for this answer. The nurse is approaching. Liv answers, "No, it wasn't. It was perfect. I'll never forget it." Victoria scrunches her nose at the thought of her dad kissing. "I know it's gross," Liv laughs as Mellie knocks on the door. "Come in," Liv says apprehensively, knowing it's Mellie.
"Permission to enter," Mellie says.
Victoria and Liv, look her way. "Hi Mom," she says.
"Hi, are you ready?"
"Yeah, I am," Victoria says.
"Olivia, you look well. How are you?"
"I'm doing well. It's almost showtime," Liv says rubbing her stomach.
"Thanks for allowing me to pick her up."
"No problem!" Liv says.
Mellie looks over at Victoria, "Can I talk to Olivia alone for a second?"
Victoria looks over at Olivia protectively. The switch in dynamic is apparent to Mellie, Liv says to her, "It's okay honey. Thanks for staying with me this evening."
"Thanks for our talk," Victoria says as she leaves.
"I don't know if Fitz told you but I'll be going to Napa Valley for a while. My dad's heart attack and all. I need to be there to help my mom and the business."
"He told me. I am glad your dad is on the mend."
"Thank you," Mellie says. They both stay silent, "Thanks you for everything with Victoria. She wants to stay here and I understand why."
"Mellie, she will be staying with us but she is your daughter. I am not trying to fill your shoes. Maybe this will help you two. And she's coming in the summer."
"I hope it helps. I really made a mess of things."
"We all make a mess of things but sometimes we are afforded the opportunity to clean it up. You haven't lost your daughter."
"I hope not," Mellie says. She reaches into her purse, "Before I go, I figured I should bring you something for the babies. You know I'm all about shopping and fashion, I love Christian Louboutin, then again who doesn't. So, I had these little shoes made for them. Just a little something." She hands Liv the present.
"Thank you Mellie! I love his shoes too. Every girl needs a pair."
"I better go, ummm good luck on everything with the delivery."
"Thanks," Liv answers as Mellie leaves out.
A few moments later Fitz walks into the room. Liv is deep in thought. Still holding the present in her hand.
"Present," Fitz says as he puts his bag down. "From who?"
"From Mellie, you just missed her. She picked up Victoria."
"Are you okay? You two didn't...I told her to text Victoria, to not come up."
"I am fine, I asked her to come up, so we could talk."
"And how did that go?"
"We came to an understanding that Mellie is Victoria's mother. Olivia is Olivia and together we can co-exist."
"Why are you so amazing?" Fitz asks.
"I can't answer it. I amaze myself sometimes," she jokes as they kiss.
"How about a belly massage?"
"Sounds good," She answers as he gets to work.
Week 36, Monday:
Fitz is sitting with Liv. She's been quiet most of the day. He hasn't wanted to push her about her thoughts but he's curious. She had a meeting with the nurse about nursing and met with the lactaid consultant. He can tell she's worried about something.
"Penny for your thoughts."
She doesn't turn to him. She stays quiet for a moment. "It's nothing."
"What did we promise?" Fitz asks getting up going toward her.
"We promised to always tell the truth," she answers.
"Okay, so what's wrong?"
"What if I can't?"
"What if you can't do what?"
"What if I can't breastfeed them?"
Fitz moves over to her, sitting on the bed, moving her hair gently behind her ears, "Why do you think that?"
"Two babies. I'll be breastfeeding two babies. What if I can't. What if I don't have the energy?"
He kisses her hand, "Then we will stock up on formula."
"No, I want to breastfeed them. I want to do that for them. I want to have that bond with them. But what if I can't do it adequately?"
"The consultant said you can do it. We just have to figure out what's the best way to go about it. I know it's going to be exhausting but baby you can do this."
"Are you sure?"
"I am positive."
"What if I am a terrible mother? They will hate me. They'll love you and I," before she can finish her sentence, Fitz reaches down and kisses her slowly.
"They are going to adore you. You'll love them more than you love me," he chuckles, "And they'll be the apple of your eye.
She laughs through her tears, "I love you so much. I can't do this without you."
"That's good to hear because I am not going anywhere."
"You better not," she sobers."You can't whisper in my ear."
"Why is that?" He laughs circling his fingers along her thighs.
"Because every time you do, you get the girls all excited and they start jumping. We need them to stay as calm as possible."
"They love their daddy," Fitz jokes.
"Yes, they do!" She says as they kiss gently.
Week 36: Wednesday
Liv has been having braxton hicks contractions. They started on Tuesday and everyone is on high alert. Fitz has refused to go back to the office. Bibi and Maya have been stationed at the hospital waiting room. They are all sitting with Liv, trying to keep her calm.
"How does it feel baby?" Maya asks.
"It feels like my body is being attacked by the worse elevated cramps. And they are kicking at the same time." Liv is slightly out of breath. "I am not going to make it until next week.
"Do you need something? Just tell me," Fitz says.
"Yes, I need these contractions to stop."
Fitz is rubbing her legs and feet. As Bibi tries to get her to laugh, "Fitz was one baby and I felt like that." Liv tries not to laugh but she can't help but do it.
"Mom," Fitz says.
"You were like a little sumo wrestler. I pushed you out, you were 10lbs."
"Mom, Liv does not need to hear this right now."
"You were 10 pounds," Liv says with widened eyes.
"Yes and even as a newborn he had big feet and long hands."
"You are a saint Barbara. There is no way I would push 10 pounds through this vagina. Olivia was 6 pounds. How many stitches?"
"Mom," Olivia says. Fitz has dropped his head shaking it in disbelief. This escalated far too quickly for him.
"10 stitches for 10 pounds," Barbara.
"So, you are both saying I should be grateful for a C-Section."
They both answer yes in unison. Fitz is still flushed with embarrassment.
Week 36: Friday
Liv is in immense pain. She was right, she won't make it to week 37. The braxton hicks are getting worse and worse.
"What if I go into labor and one of them is too small?" She cries.
"Hey, it doesn't matter, we will be here for our girls."
"But what if something is wrong because they come out too soon."
"Dr. Slauson said 36-37 weeks is a miracle for momo twins. We beat the odds."
"I just want them to be okay Fitz," she says. She is exhausted from the pain and exhausted from stress. He knows he can't stop her from worrying but he's trying to keep her calm.
"They are going to be fine." He turns her face to him, "they are going to be fine."
She takes a deep breath. "They are going to be fine."
"That's my girl," he says. He helps her sit on the side of the bed. He begins to rub her back. Her back hurts, her stomach hurts. It feels like everything hurts.
"Fitz," she says softly.
"Yes," he answers, kissing her neck.
"We are going to have twin girls soon. Are we ready?"
"I don't think we are. No one is ever truly ready to be a parent. It's a whole new world. No day will be the same."
"I love them so much already."
"Me too," he responds.
Week 36: Sunday - May 10 - Mother's Day
Liv's water unexpectedly bursts. Dr. Slauson is on her way, by the time they get Liv to the operating room. The head of one of the girls is already starting to make an appearance. They have no choice but to deliver this one.
"I thought we didn't want to deliver," Fitz says as they allow him to scrub to be there."
"We didn't, but we are going to be very cautious with this," Dr. Slauson answers.
They go into the delivery room, Fitz is holding Liv's hand tightly. "It's going to be okay baby."
"I'm scared Fitz," she says.
"I know. I would be a macho guy to say I'm not scared but I am. I am scared too."
"They are going to be alright, right?"
"Yes, they are. They are going to be okay."
"Alright Olivia, it won't take much to push this little princess out. She's already here. Just a few gentle pushes."
Liv takes a deep breath, "I am ready," she says.
"Give us a few pushes," Dr. Slauson says. The room is filled with nurses and two incubators to be safe. Liv begins to push. Tears running down her face.
"It hurts," she utters.
"Baby, you are doing great. We get to meet one of them. You just have to do it."
"I can't Fitz," she answers.
"Yes you can. Come on baby, just a few."
She goes back and the shoulders appear. Fitz can see on Dr. Slauson's face she's alarmed. He immediately jumps the gun, "What's wrong with her?"
"Nothing, I just need to not push at all. We need to maneuver her out. The umbilical cord is wrapped around her neck. We need to be careful."
"But I need to push," Liv says.
"No baby, you can't push. You can't push."
"Liv, I know it hurts and I know you need to but you can't."
Liv is panicked and reflexively she's pushing, "I can't."
Fitz stops her, "Look at me. You can't push. She's almost here."
Dr. Slauson is working hard and they are able to carefully pull the baby out. She's not breathing, which is not uncommon. Fitz watches as they hurriedly pass her to the nurse.
"She's not crying. What's wrong?" Fitz asks.
"She's not breathing," Dr. Slauson answers.
Liv's eyes are bulging, "What! Let me see her."
Fitz doesn't know what to do, at this moment. Run to his baby or keep holding his scared wife's hand. "Do something," Fitz says.
The nurses are working and they hear the nurse, "Come on little one. Give us a good breath!" Liv is squeezing Fitz's hand. He reaches down and kisses her. And then they hear it, she lets out a great cry.
"Good girl," the nurses say.
Liv closes her eyes, "She's crying.." The nurse brings her over so they can see.
"You've got a looker Mr. and Mrs. Grant," the nurse says. They are both filled with so much emotion, the moment they lay eyes on her.
"You did it Liv," he says.
"We did it," she answers. "She's beautiful."
"Just like her mama," Fitz answers as he can't stop from kissing her.
"Alright ladies and gentlemen, let's get the other one out of here."
Fitz realizes they are taking the baby away. "Where are you taking her?"
"Upstairs," Dr. Slauson answers as they start on the C-section.
45 minutes later, the other baby is out. They are stitching Liv up. She is under. The doctor has instructed Fitz he can go upstairs with the twins while they finish up. He is upstairs just staring at them.
"We've been waiting for you," Fitz says. The nurse pushes them closer.
The nurse comes out, "Would you like to hold them Mr. Grant?"
"Can I?"
"Yes, let's get you ready."
Fitz goes in and they sit him in a chair and puts the two babies in his arms. He's overcome with emotion. They look identical. He can tell which one is smaller than the other. They are sleeping heavily. "Are they okay? Are they healthy?"
"Yes, they are. Those are some strong little girls."
Fitz looks at them both, "We are going to have a great life. Your mom and I love you so much." They lay in his arms so comfortably. They know exactly who he is already.
The Grant family just grew times 2. What lies ahead for them now?"
