Chapter 32
Olivia pointed to the jet skis on the sand. "This is a must."
"Yes. Let's do it!" Abby said, excitedly.
They ran across the hot sand toward the jet skis, quickly signing the waivers, and placing the yellow life vests across their chests, clamping them shut. Abby jumped in front of Makayla, "I'm riding with Olivia."
"Abby, damn. I was about to ride with her." Makayla shouted.
"You snooze, you lose." Abby said, swinging her legs across the vehicle. Olivia revved up the jet ski and slowly glided it on the water. They bounced across the waves, splashing water in their face. Olivia and Abby circled Quinn and Makayla, racing them across the water. They rode on the jet skis for 30 minutes before returning to the beach.
"That shit was fun!" Abby shouted. "What's next?"
"Drinks by the beach. I'm tired." Olivia said.
"I agree." Quinn said.
They located four empty blue and white lounge chairs on the beach and covered them with their towels. The waiter walked over and took their drink orders. Olivia closed her eyes resting them from the hot sun. Abby sprayed sun tan lotion all over her body, before closing her eyes for a brief nap. Quinn popped in her earbuds, listening to her favorite song. Makayla pulled out a book from her bag and started reading.
"What the hell? Where did the sun go?" Abby asked, fluttering her eyes open.
"Excuse me." He said.
"Can we help you?" Abby asked.
"I was walking past and I couldn't help but to stop. I'm playing volleyball with my friends and wanted to know if you beautiful ladies would like to join us."
"Yeah, we'll play." Makayla closed her book and jumped up, standing next to the stranger.
"Kay." Olivia smirked.
Makayla extended her hand, blushing. "I'm Makayla."
"Hi Makayla, I'm Denzel." He said.
Makayla's eyes fixated on his perfect physique and roamed to his perfect six pack. He noticed her staring and made his chest jump.
"Come on." Makayla whined.
"We can play one game. Come on…stop being lazy." Quinn whined.
They stood and followed Denzel to the volleyball net.
"This is Kyle, Victor, and Omar." Denzel said, introducing his friends.
"Abby, Olivia, and Quinn." Makayla stated.
Abby rolled her eyes, pulling Olivia to her. "What are we doing?"
"One game, Abs."
They positioned themselves on one side of the net and waited for the guys to hit the ball over the net. This was the first time they played volleyball. It was a sight to behold as they tried their hardest to hit the ball over the net and keeping their balance on the sand. Denzel and his friends went easy on them and allowed them to win.
"I need a nap." Olivia said, walking back toward the lounge chairs.
"Yes. My body is aching." Quinn said.
"We would love for you ladies to join us for dinner tonight." Denzel said.
"We're kind of on a girl's trip." Abby said. "But thanks for the invite."
"Abby, wait, it's just dinner. We should go." Makayla interrupted.
Abby smirked while folding her towel. "Makayla I'm not going to dinner with them."
"It's a free meal." Omar said. "We don't bite.
"The game was fun, but we have plans tonight." Olivia spoke.
"Ugh!" Makayla huffed, grabbing her towel from the lounge chair, stomping in the sand toward the villa.
Abby shook her head. "We should've left her ass at home."
Fitz kept his promise and organized the entire trip. He made reservations at all of the exclusive restaurants on the Miami strip. For dinner, they enjoyed a lavish meal at Jaya restaurant. It was an upscale restaurant that featured fire dancers, contortionists, and aerial acrobats performing while they enjoyed their meal.
Once dinner was over, they walked down the Miami strip to the Hotel South Beach rooftop bar. They sipped on exotic drinks and danced until their feet felt numb. Attempting to bring some relief to their aching feet, they tip-toed down the narrow steps to the entrance of the hotel and waited for the valet to bring their rental car. A black limo stopped in front of the restaurant and the door opened, revealing Denzel with his friends.
"I thought that was you." Denzel said, stepping out the limo, moving to Makayla.
Makayla blushed, "hey."
"Having fun?" He asked.
"Yeah."
"We're headed to Wet Willy's for some drinks. Why don't you join me?" Denzel asked.
Makayla looked at Olivia and mouthed, "should I go?"
Olivia had an uneasy feeling in her stomach when she looked at Denzel. Her gut was never wrong. She pulled Makayla to her and whispered, "don't go with him, Kay."
Denzel noticed Makayla's hesitation. "If you're not comfortable going to the bar, maybe I could meet you back at your place and we could talk outside."
"Take my number." Makayla said, grabbing his phone, entering her phone number. "We are staying at Villa Paradiso."
"Ok. I'll meet you there." Denzel said, kissing Makayla on the cheek.
Makayla smiled and returned to her friends. "He's going to meet me at the villa."
"You told him where we're staying?" Olivia asked.
"Yes." Makayla answered.
Olivia shook her head and stepped inside the car.
"Does anyone have a problem with Denzel meeting me at the villa?" Makayla announced.
"Is it just him or is he coming with his whole crew?" Quinn asked.
"Just him." Makayla said.
Abby kept silent.
Makayla crossed her arms in front of her chest and looked out the window.
Once they arrived at the villa, Makayla was the first one out of the car, quickly changing out of her club outfit and putting on something more casual. Denzel arrived a few hours later and Makayla escorted him to the back of the villa toward the pool. They spent the entire night talking and getting to know one another, while sharing a few intimate moments. Makayla wanted what her friends had. A relationship. She'd chosen to remain single after her breakup with Marcus. It was easy to focus on her career, instead of trying to date. She watched as her friends flourished in their relationships and she felt like the outsider. She felt disconnected from them, especially Olivia. Her evening with Denzel went well and she was excited to share the news. She was exhausted from staying up all night with Denzel and almost overslept. After rushing in the shower and dressing for the day, she met them on the deck for breakfast.
"How was the rest of your night, Makayla?" Olivia asked, sinking her teethe inside a strawberry.
Makayla sipped her mimosa. "It was nice. I talked to Denzel most of the night and we kissed a lot. He's a good kisser."
"Wow…really? Is he from Miami?" Olivia asked, excitedly.
"Nope. Philly." Makayla responded.
"That's not far from DC." Quinn said with a smile.
"I know. He seems really nice." Makayla said.
Abby interrupted. "What's on the agenda for today?"
"Biking on the strip." Olivia answered.
"Ohhhh that should be fun." Quinn said.
"Denzel asked me to go snorkeling with him." Makayla said.
"Oh." Olivia said.
Abby chuckled.
"What's so funny?" Makayla asked, turning toward Abby.
"Nothing."
"No say it. What's your problem?"
"You know we're on a girl's trip, Makayla. Shit has been planned for months." Abby said.
"Yeah…and…what's your point? This is not our first girl's trip, Abby. By now, we would have done a ton of fun shit."
"Kay, go and have fun with Denzel. It's fine." Olivia said, trying to control the tension between her friends.
"Are you mad, Liv? I didn't know we had to stick to the itinerary." Makayla said.
"I'm not mad. Fitz paid for everything, so I wanted to do everything on the list." Olivia answered.
"Fuck the list!" Makayla shouted, guzzling the rest of her mimosa, pushing her plate aside and leaving the table.
"What the fuck just happened?" Olivia asked, throwing up her hands and watching Makayla walk inside the villa.
X
It was the third day of their girl's trip. They had snorkeled, jet skied, zip lined, enjoyed time at the beach, parasailed, ate at lavish restaurants and drunk way too much alcohol. Things were still tense with Makayla. She participated in some of the activities and spent the evenings with Denzel. After the blow up at breakfast, Olivia didn't say much to Makayla. She knew eventually she would have to discuss what was going on with her. Olivia, Quinn and Abby relaxed in the lounge chairs by the beach, sipping strawberry Daiquiri. Makayla was stretched out on a towel next to Denzel. His hand rested on her lower back and they looked like a couple who had known each other for years.
Abby dipped the cherry inside her drink. "Ten dollars says she stops being celibate on this trip."
"She's been going strong. I doubt it." Olivia responded.
Abby turned to Olivia, facing her. "So…when are you going to tell us what happened between you and Fitz."
Olivia kept her eyes toward the sun, answering, "his father wants me to sign a prenup."
"Really?" Quinn questioned.
"Why are you surprised, Quinn? Fitzgerald Grant comes from money…a lot of it. Why wouldn't he ask Olivia to sign a prenup."
"Fitz doesn't want me to sign it. As usual, it's his father."
"Wow, Jerry is a piece of work." Quinn said, adding more sunscreen to her legs. "Maybe once you marry Fitz, he'll back off."
Olivia didn't respond. Thoughts from her last conversation with Harrison rushed through her mind.
"I'm glad Stephen's parents don't interfere with his life." Abby said.
"Are you going to sign it?" Quinn asked.
Olivia shrugged
"Sign it, Liv. It will shut Jerry up." Abby suggested.
"I don't think she should sign it." Quinn said.
"If Stephen asks me to sign one, I will. He makes substantially more than me and has way more assets than me." Abby shrugged. "It's not a big deal."
"You plan on marrying Stephen?" Olivia asked.
"If he asks me." Abby answered.
Olivia nudged Abby, "look at you, turning over a new leaf."
Abby smiled.
Makayla sashayed over to her friends and wrapped a blue towel around her waist. "Guess what?"
"What?" Olivia asked.
"Denzel invited us to his hotel suite tonight for dinner and drinks. He's having a private chef cook."
Silence.
Makayla huffed, placing her hands on her hips. "I don't want to go by myself. I thought maybe we could go as a group."
"Kay, I'm engaged. I'm not going to another man's hotel suite." Olivia responded.
"Abby…Quinn?"
"Nope." Abby said with a hard smack, relaxing her back on the lounge chair.
"I don't think it's a good idea." Quinn said.
"I came on this trip with a bunch of old maids. We don't have to stay long." Makayla said.
"You want us to jeopardize our relationships so we can be single like you. No thank you." Abby scoffed.
"You're a real asshole at times Abby." Makayla spat.
"I'll be that Makayla, but what I'm not going to be, is a fool." Abby said.
Makayla sucked her teeth, pointing at each of them, "Since y'all got in your relationships it's been…fuck Makayla. No one calls me anymore. We barely hang out. It's all about Fitz, Stephen, and Huck. We used to be thick as thieves."
"That's not true." Olivia said.
"Yes, it is, Liv. When was the last time you called me? Actually, picked up the phone and called me?" Makayla asked.
"We talk all the time." Olivia said.
"In the group chat. You didn't even ask me to help plan your birthday party."
Abby laughed. "You still on that, Makayla? Let it go."
"Fuck you, Abby." Makayla said.
Olivia sat up on the lounge chair, "I had nothing to do with the party, Kay. What is really going on?"
"If you can't figure it out Olivia, then we were never really friends." Makayla answered.
"Are you kidding me right now?" Olivia said.
"Are y'all coming with me or not?" Makayla asked, harshly.
"Kay, we have dinner plans tonight and you know it." Olivia said.
"I'm not going. I'm tired of Fitz's itinerary. This is our trip and we should be able to do whatever the fuck we want. Last year when we went to Vegas, no one said anything to Abby when she left and fucked Stephen. Or Liv, how about when you spent the night at Fitz's hotel suite and fucked him for the first time. Now ya'll want to prance around like miss perfect in a relationship. Fuck out of here. I'm over it."
Olivia's eyes widened at her comment, "that's below the belt, Kay and you know it."
"Makayla." Quinn said.
"You're jealous." Abby muttered, angrily. "And blocking my sunlight."
"What did you say?" Makayla asked.
Abby rolled her eyes, "you're jealous. PERIOD! By the way, Fitz paid for this trip that you're fucking complaining about, we'll do whatever is on his itinerary. If I recall, didn't he help you out with one of the stories for your magazine? Now you got shit to say about him."
"WHATEVER…I'M NOT JEALOUS!" Makayla shouted. "I just want my friend back." She stormed in the direction of the villa.
Olivia stood and Abby grabbed her hand, "Liv, sometimes, friends come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime. You need to decide about Makayla because lately her friendship has been questionable."
Olivia huffed. "I'm not sure what's going on with her." Olivia followed Makayla inside the villa.
Makayla quickly turned her body facing Olivia, yelling, "Olivia go back to your other friends. I don't want to talk to you."
"My other friends. We're all friends, Kay." Olivia said, stepping back from Makayla.
Makayla pointed toward the beach, "this little group of friends thing isn't working for me anymore."
Olivia sat on the couch, crossing her hands in front of her chest, "what's really going on, Kay."
"I was at Lafayette's a couple of weeks ago and I saw you, Abby and Quinn hugged up with Stephen, Huck and Fitz. No one invited me. Fitz didn't even include me in the planning of your party. I feel like an outsider."
"You're not an outsider, Makayla. We didn't tell you about the dinner because it was a date night that the guys had planned. Fitz planned my birthday party and proposal. It was a surprise." Olivia said.
Makayla huffed. "I want my friend back. The one I had before Fitz. I feel like our friendship has changed since you met him."
"Maybe I'm changing. I'll be married soon. My life will look different but I'm hoping you would still be a part of it."
Makayla shrugged.
"Fitz is a part of my life, Kay. If you have a problem with him, then you have a problem with me." Olivia said.
"I don't have a problem with Fitz. I just remember all of the things we used to do before you were in a relationship and I guess I want those times back."
"I was single, Kay.
Makayla twisted the hem on her shirt. "I know."
"Friendship is about growth." Olivia said, scooting closer to her on the couch.
Makayla sighed. "I know, Liv. I'm sorry for being such an ass. I should have said how I felt, sooner."
"I'm glad you told me. I want us to stay friends." Olivia said.
"I'm fine with you, but I'm done with Abby. I'll get along with her for the remainder of the trip, but when we get back to DC, don't include me in anything with her."
Olivia nodded. "Ok."
A knock came on the door and Olivia opened it. "Tell Makayla, Denzel is here to see her." Quinn said.
"Are you still going with him?" Olivia asked.
"No. I'll go to dinner with you and meet up with him later."
Makayla stood, hugging Olivia.
After dinner, they went their separate ways. Abby and Quinn went to a local bar. Makayla met up with Denzel at the beach. Olivia needed some alone time and declined hanging out with her friends. She eased down on the side of the pool and dipped her feet inside, leaning back on her hands. Thinking. The trip had helped to take her mind off her last conversation with Harrison. She knew once she spoke to Harrison again, everything would explode in her life. She wasn't sure how Fitz would respond and it made her nervous. She wasn't prepared to lose him when he learned the truth. Swiping a tear from her eye, she facetimed Fitz needing to hear his voice for comfort.
"Hi."
"Hi."
His baby blue eyes shone brightly across the screen. "I miss you." Olivia said.
"Yeah."
"Where are you?" Olivia asked, watching him move around on the screen.
"Look up."
Her eyes shot up from the screen and roamed the pool area, immediately connecting with his. She smiled and rushed to him, almost toppling him over. "Baby." She crooned.
"I wasn't expecting that." He said.
She threw her arms around his neck, "what are you doing here?"
"Well..." before he could finish, her tongue was wrapped around his, deeply kissing him.
He pulled back. "Wow..."
"I really needed you." Olivia said.
"I can tell." He said, pulling her hand gently, leading her to the beach. "I hate when we're not in sync, Liv. I didn't like how we left things. You're miles away from me. I...I... wanted to see you."
Olivia wrapped her arm around his waist, placing her head on his shoulder. "Do you really want me to sign the prenup? If you want me to sign it, I will. If it's for your father…"
Fitz interjected. "It's not necessary. I shredded it. Pretty soon you're going to carry the Grant name. Our children will carry the Grant name. Everything I have will belong to you and them."
"Children? We've never talked about having kids." Olivia said.
"I know. I want kids. Maybe four."
"Fitz." Olivia said, stopping in the sand, giggling. "Two and that's my final offer."
Fitz chuckled. "I'm going to knock you up more than twice, Liv."
"Fitzzzzz." Olivia whined.
"You're beautiful, baby. I know our children will be just as breathtaking as you."
Olivia blushed.
Fitz lifted her left hand and kissed her diamond ring. "I cleaned out half of my closet and the drawers for when you're ready to move in."
"You've been busy." Olivia responded.
"Livvie, you're my family now. Don't focus on my father and his bullshit. He wants to protect the Grant name. It's the only thing he has right now."
Olivia sighed. "I just…I want him out of our lives, Fitz."
"He's my father."
Olivia shook her head, quickly changing the subject. "Did you come by yourself?"
"No, I dragged Stephen and Huck with me. I'm sure they've met up with Abby and Quinn by now. Stephen booked a hotel room for him and Abby, so you know what his plan is." He chuckled. "Huck was going to see what Quinn wanted to do."
"And what about you?"
He shrugged. "I don't want to intrude on your trip."
"Stay with me for a little while." Olivia asked, batting her eyelids.
Fitz nodded. "What do you have in mind?"
Olivia looked around the beach, her eyes fixated on an empty cabana. "There." She said pointing to the cabana.
Fitz sat on the cushion, shifting Olivia between his legs. Her eyes drifted down to his, "I can't believe you flew all the way here."
"I would do anything for you."
Olivia placed her hand on his belt buckle, smirking. "Anything?"
"Right here, baby…I…don't…know if this is a good idea. We could get caught."
"Are you scared, Fitzgerald?" Olivia teased.
"No but…"
"Good thing I wore a dress it will make for easy access." Olivia said, straddling his lap, and undoing his belt buckle. She bent down and captured his lips, taking away his anxious thoughts. His hand gripped her waist, slowly lifting her dress. While his free hand toyed with her throbbing clit. Olivia lifted her dress more, as she fumbled with his zipper, slowly bringing it down. Her fingers slipped inside his pants, removing his thick, hard member. Fitz quickly sat up when he heard voices, and placed his hand over Olivia's mouth. "Shhhhhhhh."
Olivia stood in the sand, bringing her panties down, quickly stuffing them inside Fitz's pocket. She licked her lips before straddling his waist, taking every inch of him. Fitz leaned up, removing his shirt. Olivia raked her nails across his chest, combing through the sweat dampened brown curls. Their hips moved in sync as his dick plunged forcefully inside her. Moaning, she cried out, "deeper, baby."
His hips jerked beneath her, his dick plunging deeper inside her wet core.
"Shhiiitttttttt." Olivia hissed.
His free hand snagged her hair, pulling her head toward his lips, "Please, kiss me, baby. Show me how much you need me."
She didn't hesitate. Her head lowered and her lips crashed against his. He eagerly rolled her to her back, moving between her thighs, feeling her pussy tighten on him as he retreated, then clench again with need as he thrust inside her once more. Sweat poured from their bodies as her legs twined around his hips and his tongue sought her mouth. The pleasure was too deep, too hard. Within seconds he was fucking her with a primal hunger, forgetting they were out in public.
Fitz covered her mouth with his as he felt Olivia orgasm. He was right behind her releasing a fiery blast of his seed, filling her. Olivia rested her head against his chest, taking short breaths. "Baby, I'm going to try and get up." She said, easing off of him, digging her toes in the sand. She straitened her dress as his seed flowed down her leg. She reached inside his pocket, removed her underwear and wiped the sticky substance from her leg. "Baby, that was a lot."
"Mmmmmhmmmm." He said, zipping up his pants.
He brought her between his legs, snaking his hands around her waist, "You're very naughty, Ms. Pope."
"You love this naughty girl." Olivia giggled.
"I do."
They walked back to the villa hand in hand. Olivia wrapped her arms around Fitz, kissing him. "Please don't go." She mumbled. Their moment was interrupted by Abby and Quinn jetting up the steps, giggling.
"Hey you two." Abby said.
"Hey. Is Stephen with you?" Fitz asked.
Abby pointed toward the street where Huck and Stephen stood. "Thank you for bringing them. I was tired of being around all this estrogen."
Quinn laughed.
"Olivia looks happy. Did ya'll…?" Abby asked, pointing between them.
They didn't answer.
"Ohhhhh yes you did. Fitz has sex curls."
"Abby!" Olivia said.
"What? I just got some too." Abby shrugged.
"Me too." Quinn said, chuckling.
"I guess you'll have a lot to talk about." Fitz said.
Olivia smiled giving him one last kiss. "I love you."
He walked down the steps, looking back at her, "love you too."
X
The last day of the trip went by quickly. They relaxed by the beach and shopped on the Miami strip. The wheels of the plane dropped down on the runway and Olivia swallowed hard, realizing she was back in DC. She enjoyed her time with her friends, but knew it was time to speak to Harrison. Although her and Makayla talked about their differences, she still seemed stand-offish the remainder of the trip. Olivia sighed when Makayla rolled her eyes when she saw Fitz, Huck and Stephen waiting at the bottom of the runway. She didn't have the energy or the desire to coddle her. She knew deep down that her friendship with Makayla needed more work and could possibly be over.
Olivia ran toward Fitz, hugging him tight. "Hey baby."
He lifted her and twirled her around, "do you want to take your suitcase to your place and get a few things?"
"No. Can we just go to your place? I don't want to spend another minute away from you."
Fitz smiled. "I'll take it."
Olivia waved to Abby and Quinn as they entered the limo with Huck and Stephen.
Olivia couldn't wait to shower and relax with Fitz. Dropping her clothes on the floor, she entered the shower, allowing the warm water to cascade over her body. After a long shower, she lathered her skin with lotion. Her phone buzzed on the nightstand and she picked it up.
"Hi mom."
"Hi Livvie."
"How was your trip?"
"It was fun. I'm glad to be back in DC. I'm not sure if I will do another girl's trip anytime soon."
Maya chuckled. "Why? What happened?"
"Too many personalities." Olivia said.
"Understandable. Have you done any wedding planning?" Maya asked.
"Fitz brought some magazines. We're going to start soon." Olivia responded.
"I spoke to Nana Mattie about making your wedding dress."
Olivia sighed. "Edison's grandmother. Why would you ask her?"
"Tradition, Olivia. She made your prom dress and all of your Easter dresses when you were a little girl. I thought it would be nice for her to make it."
Olivia slipped on her nightgown. "I don't think it's a good idea."
"I see." Maya said. "She had no idea you and Edison stopped talking. I guess he didn't tell her."
Olivia shrugged. "Mom I don't want Edison's family involved with my wedding. Diana gave me someone to contact to help with the wedding planning. I'm going to call tomorrow."
"Oh ok, Livvie. If that's what you want." Maya said. "I know we don't have a ton of money but your father and I would like to be involved somehow."
"You will, mom. I promise. I have to go." Olivia said, hanging up. She tossed the phone across the mattress. It buzzed again. She looked at the screen and saw it was Harrison calling. She sent the call to voicemail, quickly texting him she couldn't talk.
She walked inside the kitchen and leaned against the refrigerator, watching Fitz at the stove. He turned to her and noticed the sadness in her eyes. "Everything ok?"
"Let's go to Vegas and elope."
Fitz stiffened at the stove, plating the chicken marsala and yellow rice. "Is that what you want?" He asked, carrying the plates to the counter.
"Not really. My mom just called and suggested Edison's grandmother should make my dress."
He was silent, moving to the counter with the silverware in his hand.
"His grandmother made my dresses when I was a little girl. I don't want any part of Edison's family associated with our wedding."
"I don't either." Fitz admitted.
"I'm going to call the wedding planner tomorrow and get things started."
He sliced a piece of chicken and placed it in his mouth. "I would like that, baby." He said after swallowing the food.
Fitz retired to the bedroom after dinner. Olivia stayed awake and perused through the rest of the wedding magazines. She searched countless wedding websites, cutting and pasting pictures and creating several Pinterest boards online. Olivia was on a mission. She needed to prove to Fitz she was ready to marry him. She never loved anyone as much as she loved Fitz. She knew she needed to step up and do more in their relationship. He always made sure she was happy and put her needs above his. Harrison had halted her desire to plan the wedding with his confession. He needed her help and she couldn't refuse. She'd hoped the outcome would be favorable for her and Fitz. If it wasn't, she would lose Fitz for good.
After several hours of planning, she walked inside the bedroom and crashed on the mattress next to Fitz. The alarm on her phone sounded through the room and she shifted on the mattress, waking up. Fitz moaned, pulling her into him. "Let's stay in bed."
"I have a surprise for you." She said, resting her head on his chest.
"I love surprises. Does it include you handling this?" He asked, lifting the sheet, showing his long, thick erection.
Olivia licked her lips, "how about I show you the surprise and then I take care of you?"
Fitz hovered over her, "the other way around works."
"Come on, baby." Olivia said, quickly sliding from underneath him before he had the chance to convince her to have sex first.
Fitz slipped on a pair of boxers and followed Olivia.
She rolled out a long piece of white paper across the table. It displayed all of the wedding magazine clippings and website pictures, neatly taped to the paper. "This is it...our wedding. What do you think?" She gleamed, looking back at him.
"Damn, when did you do all of this?" He said, easing on his knees in front of the table.
"Last night, while you were sleeping." She said, pointing to a picture. "I picked lavender and navy blue because they're our favorite colors."
He pulled her on his lap. "Very nice."
She pointed to the picture of a woman wearing a lavender dress. "Bridesmaids dresses. I sent these pictures to Abby last night. Brooks Brothers for the tuxes…what do you think?"
"I love Brooks Brothers…Ok."
"DC…we should get married in DC. It's where we call home. Are you ok with that?"
"Yes."
She lightly kissed his lips, "roses…lots of them, baby. It's your signature thing for me. You always give me roses."
Fitz nodded. "I do."
"I figured the wedding planner can help me organize everything." She said, linking her fingers with his. "Do you like it?"
"I love it, baby. We're getting married." He said, excitedly.
"Yes, we are, Mr. Grant."
He lifted her from the floor and spun her around in his arms, slowly bringing her down his body so she could feel his erection. "About the other thing." He whispered.
Olivia smiled, pulling him toward the bedroom. His smile was bright and if she had a camera she would have taken a picture of it. He was happy and that's all she ever wanted for him.
X
Olivia beeped the horn several times, waiting for Abby to come out of Stephen's house.
Abby finally appeared, running to the car, swinging the door open. She plopped down in the seat. "Sorry bestie, I was involved."
Olivia turned on her right blinker and pulled out of the parking lot. "Abby, I told you what time I was coming. Would it kill you to tell Stephen to wait a few hours for sex?"
Abby chuckled. "He walks around naked, Liv. It's such a turn on."
"Remind me not to sit on the couch when I visit you at Stephen's house." Olivia laughed
"I should say the same about you and Fitz. I'm sure his couch has a ton of cum stains."
"They do not. We are very meticulous." Olivia answered.
Abby laughed.
Olivia pulled into the restaurant and parked the car.
"I see you came prepared with your bridal binder." Abby said, stepping out the car, and grabbing the binder from Olivia.
"I wasn't sure what to expect. His office said to bring any ideas I had."
Abby abruptly stopped at the entrance, "I'm assuming, I'm the maid of honor…right?"
"No. I just brought you here as my guest."
"What…Liv…I…I…" Abby stuttered.
Olivia chuckled, cutting her off, "yes Abby. You're my maid of honor."
"Thank you…Thank you…Liv. I won't let you down I promise. Oh yeah! I can't wait to plan the bachelorette party."
"Abby, we'll talk about that another day."
They walked up to the hostess, Olivia spoke first, "Hi, I'm here to meet James Novak."
"Right this way." The hostess said, walking through the tables as Olivia and Abby followed her.
"This place is fancy." Abby whispered to Olivia.
"I know."
The hostess opened a pair of wooden doors and Olivia's eyes widened. There were several tables set up that displayed flowers, centerpieces, cakes, dresses, jewelry, shoes, etc. It mimicked a bridal showcase.
"You must be Olivia." A man appeared from the side dressed in black slacks, a white button- down shirt, and a black and gold Versace jacket.
"I am." Olivia said, extending her hand.
"Wait, your James Novak from that famous show…what is it?" Abby chimed.
"Say Yes to the Dress." James answered. "Yes, I am."
Olivia was flabbergasted and unable to speak.
"And you are?" James asked.
"Abbigale, the maid of honor." Abby said, extending her hand, nudging Olivia. "Liv are you ok?"
"Yeah. I'm just surprised. I had no idea when I called your office."
"Most people don't realize I plan weddings. They only think about the show. Diana is a very good friend of mine. I was told to handle you with care. Are you ready to meet your wedding team?" James asked
"Yes." Olivia said, slowly following him.
"Lucille is in charge of flowers. Whatever your heart desires, she will create it. Your bouquet will be flawless." He pointed to the right. "Janet has knowledge on venues and speaks five different languages in case you want a wedding abroad." He pointed to the left. "Desserts is Derrick's specialty…get it…desserts and Derrick. Cracks me up every time."
Olivia chuckled.
"He knows everything about sweets and treats. Cupcakes, cakes, and those pain in the ass cake balls. Why do people love them so much? Just give me the cake instead of a bite sized sample."
James pulled Abby to the next table. "Christina is on bridesmaids and maid of honor duty. You can have fun over here."
He walked Olivia to the last table and took a seat. "I'm here to steer you on the path to your perfect wedding dress."
Olivia took a seat in front of him.
"Up…Up…Up." James said, standing.
"Huh?" Olivia said.
"We work for you now. I'm sure the binder you've been cradling in your arms for dear life has some notes for us. Go to the front of the room and tell us allllll about your dream wedding."
Olivia smiled and walked to the front of the room and opened her notebook. She started with the story of how her and Fitz met, then she glanced at Lucille and told her she wanted roses as the flower of choice. She moved to each table sharing her ideas until she finally made it back to James' table. She shared her ideas for her dress and he sketched it in no time. Tears flowed from her eyes as she thought about marrying Fitz. The love of her life. She felt like a modern- day Cinderella when the meeting ended and she walked out of the restaurant with Abby.
"Wow…that was amazing." Abby said.
Olivia nodded.
"Why are you so quiet?" Abby asked.
"Just thinking." Olivia answered.
Olivia opened the car door, placing her wedding binder on the seat.
Tears suddenly streamed down her face. Abby reached her hand over to hers, squeezing it. "Are those happy tears?"
"Sort of." Olivia said, turning on the ignition.
"You want to talk about it?" Abby asked.
"Not now." Olivia said, wiping the tears from her face.
After dropping Abby off, Olivia pulled into the parking space at Fitz's apartment. She noticed Harrisons black escalade right away. She sighed, stepping out of the car.
She knocked on the window and waited until she heard the click of the door opening.
"I hate being ignored." He said, turning the radio down. "I've been calling you."
Olivia shook her head, "how much longer Harry?"
"I need a few days."
"I'll give you two. I need to tell Fitz the truth."
Harrison turned to her, "Liv we almost have Big Jerry right where we need him. Don't fuck up the plan."
"I only agreed to help you because I love Fitz and I want to protect him. Please get Jerry out of our lives." She shouted.
"He will be, in a matter of days. I told you from the beginning things could get messy, but I've protected you from the start. You don't have to tell Fitz about your involvement." Harrison stated.
"I can't start my marriage on a lie." Olivia opened the glove compartment, looking for a tissue to dry her eyes. Harrison's detective badge fell to the floor and she tossed it back inside. "I never should have agreed to do this, Harry."
"Lil sis, this is on me. I asked for your help. You won't lose him."
"I can't, Harry. It will destroy me."
"Hey…look at me. He said, placing his hand under her chin, turning her face toward his. "I was never after Fitz. It was always his father. You kept him out of the bullshit. You did the right thing."
Olivia wiped the tears from her eyes, "he's going to hate me."
"He will see what you did for him and understand." Harrison said, hugging her.
"And if he doesn't?"
Harrison turned the ignition on, "I'll make sure of it."
Olivia opened the car door, "I have to go."
X
Three days later…
Olivia paced, nursing her third glass of red wine. Her right eye twitched and she couldn't sit still. Jerry Grant had been arrested. She hadn't heard from Fitz all day which told her, he knew his father was arrested. Fitz jetted off the elevator, tossing his suit jacket over the kitchen chair, calling out Olivia's name. She answered quickly, running to him as he cradled her in his arms, squeezing her tight.
"What's wrong?" Olivia asked.
"My father was arrested."
"I'm so sorry Fitz."
"I'm not."
Olivia stepped out of his embrace and glanced at the anger in his eyes, "he's a piece of shit. I knew it all along, Liv. Apparently, Sally gave him up in order to lessen her sentence. My father was part of the embezzlement scheme all along. He used funds from the firms escrow accounts to build the apartments and hotels. The new apartment in Vegas…the one I was supposed to oversee was all a big scam. If I had agreed to help him, I would be in jail right along with him. The money Sally and Hollis took from the schools was going into his private accounts. Fucking bastard."
"What about your uncle Peter?"
"He's clear in all of this. He had no idea my father used the money from the law firm."
"You're ok right? Your mom and grandma Pearl? Did you talk to them?"
"My mom is fine. She said he finally got what was coming to him. My grandmother said she warned my mother a long time ago. My grandmother had an idea my father was up to no good, that's why she gave me the money from my grandfather when we were in California. She didn't want my father to misuse the funds."
"What about your trust fund?" Olivia asked.
"It's gone, baby. They seized all of his assets."
Olivia covered her mouth. "Fitz, I'm so sorry."
"Don't be, baby. I have money. Everything is going to work out. I'm still building the firm and your school."
"Fitz…I…I…"
Fitz's cell phone buzzed and he answered it. "Hi uncle Cy. Yeah, I've been briefed. I have the file with all of the information. I'll see you in a few."
Fitz hung up the phone and turned to Olivia, "what were you going to say, beautiful?"
"I don't deserve you."
"Livvie, we'll get through this. We'll be fine. Cyrus said I can go and see my father. Do you want to come?"
"Yes." Olivia agreed.
Olivia was on pins and needles. She'd hoped Harrison wasn't at the prison. She wasn't ready to face Jerry and answer questions from Fitz…not yet. She twirled her engagement ring on her finger, deep in thought. She could tell Fitz was tensed. She reached her hand across the console and rubbed the back of his head, caressing the bottom of his scalp. He rolled his neck with each gentle touch.
Cyrus met them at the front entrance of the jail. "You'll have 20 minutes with him before they move him to another location."
"Good that's all I need." Fitz said, gripping Olivia's hand.
"You don't have to say anything to him." Fitz said, kissing the back of Olivia's hand. Olivia eased down in the chair, placing her hand on his leg, softly rubbing his knee.
Jerry slowly walked inside, wearing an orange jumpsuit. His hands were handcuffed together. He plopped down in the hard-wooden chair, his eyes connected with Fitz.
Fitz shouted. "HOW COULD YOU?"
Jerry swallowed hard. "It was easy money, Fitzgerald."
Fitz slammed his fist down on the table. "You're a piece of shit. You stole from the firm. People trusted you."
Jerry leaned his elbows on the table. "They were rich bastards, Fitz."
Fitz jumped to his feet and the guard in the room quickly moved to him, holding him back.
"It doesn't matter. You're a thief."
"Fitz, baby." Olivia said.
Jerry smirked, "where do you think the money from your trust fund came from?"
"You've been lying this whole time." Fitz said.
Jerry smirked. "No, but you might want to talk to your bride to be. Don't say I didn't warn you."
Fitz stood and pushed the chair under the table. "What are you talking about? All you do is lie. I'm done wasting my time with you."
Olivia stood with Fitz, "baby, can I have a moment with your father?"
"Why?" He snapped.
"I have to tell him something."
"I'm done talking to him. I'll be outside if you need me."
"Ok, baby." She smiled.
Olivia took five quick strides toward Jerry and leaned on the table. "Now you're out of our lives for good."
"I knew you were trouble the minute I laid eyes on you." Jerry groaned.
"Shut up, Jerry!" Olivia barked. "You'll be in here for a long time."
"When Fitz finds out what you did, he'll leave you for good."
"I protected him. He loves me and I love him. You can't stand between us anymore."
The door swung open, "Liv, let's go." Fitz demanded. Olivia held out her hand for Fitz, linking her fingers with his. She looked over her shoulder and smirked at Jerry.
Fitz pulled the car into his parking space at his apartment. Olivia looked over at him as her lip quivered. "I love you, Fitz." She said, stepping out the car. Harrison was inside. She could see his tall frame through the lobby window. Fitz hadn't noticed.
She halted her steps at the entrance of the lobby door and turned to Fitz. "Baby, I need to talk to you."
"Livvie, I'm exhausted. I just want to go inside."
"Please…It's about your father." She begged as he opened the door to the lobby.
"Ok. I'm listening." He said, feeling his stomach churn and his head throb as he took in every word. His eyes met Harrison's and he stopped midway, dropping his hand from Olivia's.
He felt light headed and dizzy. "What are you saying, Liv?"
She pointed to the gold badge around Harrison's neck, "he's a detective, Fitz. He was undercover."
He needed something to hold on before he passed out. He gripped the back of the couch and mustered. "Wait, what?"
"Can we go somewhere and talk?" Harrison said.
"My apartment is fine." Fitz said, swallowing hard.
The elevator ride was silent. As soon as the doors opened, Fitz rushed to the bar, pouring himself a drink. He guzzled the brown liquid in the glass, sitting next to Olivia. She anxiously watched his every move. Unsure if she should touch him, she placed her hand on the couch in between them.
"Someone start talking." Fitz demanded, placing the empty glass on the table in front of him.
"Your uncle Cyrus was investigating Jerry and Peter for a while. He asked my department to assist him when your father started buying more real estate in New York and Vegas. He's been following your father's trail of money and it wasn't adding up with the firms accounts." Harrison stated.
"Wait. All of this was a set up?" His eyes gleamed at Olivia. "Our relationship?" He stated, barely audible, standing and pacing around the room.
Olivia walked to him, stopping his movements, and allowing his eyes to focus on her.
Harrison spoke. "No. I didn't ask for Olivia's help until recently. She had no idea I was a detective. I've never discussed my job with her. Olivia believed I was a local drug dealer and I let her roll with it for the sake of my job. Your father knew we were getting close to bringing him down, so he threw Sally and Hollis under the bus."
"The arrest at the school was part of the plan?"
"Unbeknownst to Olivia, yes. Your father set up Sally and Hollis, thinking he wouldn't be arrested. A promise Cyrus made to get him to agree to the plan. We used Jerry as bait and at the same time he buried himself. I had to make sure you didn't have any ties to your father's money or business practices. There was no way I could arrest you and deal with Olivia's heartbreak."
"I protected you, Fitz." Olivia whispered, trailing her hand down his cheek.
"What was your role in all of this?" He asked, stopping her hand.
"I sent Harrison files from your computer that pertained to the school and the new law firm." Olivia answered.
"I tracked the developers you used and your bank accounts, and none of them were tied to your father. You were clean."
"The money came from my grandmother." Fitz answered.
"Yes, I'm aware." Harrison said.
Fitz walked Olivia to the couch, "why didn't you tell me?"
"She couldn't." Harrison interjected. "I told her not to tell you. We were so close to your father, I didn't want to jeopardize his arrest. If you want to blame anyone…blame me."
"What about Alyssa? Was she in on the plan?" Fitz asked, glaring at Harrison.
"No. I told her everything this morning. She was pretty upset because I lied to her, but we'll get through it. She's carrying something special."
Olivia looked up at Harrison, "Is she pregnant?"
"Yeah." He muttered. "We found out a couple of days ago." Harrison moved closer to Fitz. "She protected you, Fitz. She loves the hell out of you. I hope you can forgive her for not telling you." His phone buzzed and he answered it, shaking his head. "I have to go."
Olivia sat on the couch, twirling her engagement ring around her finger. Her head was bowed and she refused to look at Fitz. He shook his head and inched closer to her. "Love allows for forgiveness, Olivia."
She lifted her head, looking into his deep blue eyes, "I'm sorry for not telling you, Fitz. I really am."
He cupped her cheeks and repeated, "love allows for forgiveness. No more apologies. You forgave me once and I owe you the same."
"Do you still want to marry me?" Olivia asked.
"Yes." Fitz answered, standing.
Olivia squeezed his hand as a tear fell from her eye.
He swiped it with his thumb, whispering softly. "Thank you."
Her eyes lifted to his, "for what?"
"For loving me enough to protect me and honestly, for getting rid of my father. I thought he'd changed and really wanted a decent relationship with me. I feel like I can finally breathe. I know I will have to restore the Grant name." He paused midway to the bedroom. "Will you help me?"
Cupping his cheeks, she gently placed her lips against his. "Yes. Whatever you need."
A/N: I dropped little breadcrumbs throughout the story about Harrison. Were you shocked by his reveal? Jerry is gone for good. What about Abby? I feel for Makayla. Her friends are changing and she feels left out. Alyssa is pregnant! Are you shocked? We have an Olitz wedding coming up. I hope you enjoyed this chapter. Don't forget to leave a review.
