Say Yes! Chapter 6, a scandal fanfic

Hey everybody, ya'll alright? I hope this update finds you all in good health, vaccinated and still wearing a mask if you choose to. Thank you all so much for reading this story, the reviews and the PMs. I know this isn't what a lot of Olitz fans wanted to read, but for those who are still with me, thank you. And to that person (I won't name you here) who asked about the music. Yes, Satchel and I have the same taste in music. I'm a lover of all tunes very old school.

There is only one chapter left. I've really enjoyed writing about Fitz and Olivia's first child, who played a huge role in IOYK, and I felt she deserved her own short story. Again, thank you all so much. Enjoy.

TBOT

Present, Sugar Hill

Fitz climbed the narrow staircase to the third floor of the Grant family summer home on Martha's Vineyard. The space was previously a full attic, but had been converted into four bedrooms with en suite baths, all surrounding a communal sitting area. Senior Grant had built four two-bedroom guest houses on the property for his four sons but he hadn't counted on those four sons producing a total of sixteen children, several grandchildren, and even more great-grands. The main house had five bedrooms, and there were apartments above the multi car garage and in the basement, but the family had decided they still needed more space. Fitz had taken on the project and designed a modern and comfortable living space. He and Olivia always selected one of the bedrooms on the third floor, away from everyone else…for reasons.

Olivia felt Fitz's presence as soon as he opened the bedroom door. She heard him as he quietly slipped inside and locked the door, and smiled as he moved across the hardwood floor, making his way to the bathroom for a shower.

Fitz stood under the pulsating spray hoping his wife would join him, but he knew she was exhausted and needed her rest. He finished and dried his body before entering the bedroom, nude. He was surprised to find Olivia awake and sitting up against the mound of pillows. She watched as he pulled on a pair of cotton pajama pants, before turning and giving her that lopsided grin and crawling into bed beside her. Olivia cradled him against her body, planting a kiss in his damp hair.

"You smell good, babe," she said, noticing the scent of her body wash.

"I smell like you," he said, smiling up at his wife before sitting up and snuggling closer to her, savoring the feeling of her being in his arms.

"What are you doing awake, Livvie? I didn't wake you, did I?" he questioned

She kissed his cheek. "No, baby, you didn't. I was only dozing. I can't sleep. I'm too wired about tomorrow."

He kissed her and hugged her close. "So am I."

She nodded absently.

"Mom, Gisele, Bebe and Abby were in kitchen having a glass of wine. They couldn't sleep either."

"I know. Nicole and I were too tired to join them, and came up to bed."

"Mom's just as anxious about tomorrow as you are. She's also excited. She's had to listen to Aunt Lennore gloat about Nola's wedding and how she was such a beautiful bride, for almost a year, and tomorrow she gets to 'shut her up.' Her words, not mine."

Fitz laughed and shook his head, thinking about his mother's comment. Lennore Grant could always make his prim and proper mother forget all of her etiquette training.

"I had to remind her that her 'nemesis' is about one hundred yards away in a guest house with her husband, and could walk in at any moment. Of course that didn't stop her."

Olivia laughed. She adored her in-loves. They were both so excited and happy to host their first ladybug's wedding reception on the grounds at Sugar Hill. Christine and Thea had worked with the coordinator all week to make sure nothing had been overlooked and that the reception would be perfect.

"I love her. She has been a Godsend this week, and over the past year helping with the wedding planning. Our children couldn't have wished for two better sets of grandparents."

Fitz nodded, agreeing with his wife. "Tomorrow, Aunt Lennore isn't going to know what hit her. Mom's going to be insufferable."

Olivia laughed and shook her head. "No Fitz, not that sweet, sweet woman."

"Yes, Livvie. You and everyone else are going to see an entirely different side of Christine Sloane Ford Grant!"

They both laughed for almost a minute. When they finally calmed down, Olivia changed the subject.

"Did everybody get in okay?" she asked.

"Yes."

"What about our son?"

"Yeah. Noah picked him up, and Rowe was not happy. Apparently Noah interrupted the deep conversation he was having with a young lady he'd just met. Her name's Delaney, and he invited her to the party after the reception."

Olivia chuckled and shook her head. "That boy."

Fitz's chest swelled with pride just thinking about his son. Rowe was definitely a chip off the old block. "I know. I can't believe he's the same kid who used to scrunch up his face, roll his eyes and gag whenever we touched each other or even kissed. I told him that I would remind him of that when he got older."

And he had reminded Rowe of that, and much more. He had been talking to his son since the moment he discovered the ladies, and when the ladies had discovered him. It was yet another stage of his son's journey into manhood.

"Well his opinions have certainly changed over the years," Olivia mused.

Fitz nodded. "And that's why we're constantly having conversations about respect, consent, sexism and objectification. I've told him that sex is something that should be saved for a loving, committed relationship, and that sexual activeness is not a status symbol. If he wants to wait to have sex, that's okay. It doesn't make him a loser."

Olivia nodded thinking about the times she'd attempted to talk to their son about girls. "He always tells me that the girls he talks to are nice girls. I guess that's suppose mean he's not doing anything?" She looked up at her husband.

"Well nice girls or not, I've drilled it into head to always use condoms. These days, you have to."

Neither parent was sure if their son was still a virgin, which is why they constantly preached being responsible and safe.

It also helped that Rowe had four older sisters. They had taught him how to treat girls, and to have better insight and understanding into the way they think. He'd learned at an early age that girls are completely different than boys. They thought differently, they laughed at different jokes, they got upset about things which, for the life of him, he could not understand why. His sisters were all different from each other, with different personalities. He loved them all, but Spencer was always a challenge. She'd taught him a lot though.

Being in a house filled with women, he'd learned how to treat girls, and had a better insight into what girls think than most of his friends. Of course he didn't always understand girls, but he was able to understand them better than most guys.

The best part was all of his sisters would tell him what was upsetting them and he would make mental notes of all the situations and scenarios in which they felt bad, hurt or scared. He knew when they wanted him to listen or say something, and knew their answers before they answered his questions. It had helped him over the years, and with these weapons in his arsenal, it was easy for him to talk to girls without all of the drama, misunderstandings and fights. It was why girls loved and flocked to him. It also didn't hurt that he was a very smart, charming and handsome young man, with a great personality.

"I pray that we're getting through to him," Olivia said, "because I do not intend for our son to become a baby daddy."

Fitz sighed. "Neither do I, Livvie."

They were quiet for a minute before Fitz spoke again. "I talked to our daughter after you left. She's ready, Livvie."

"I know. She came up to say goodnight and we talked." Olivia looked into her husband's eyes. "She's worried about you, Fitz."

He looked at his wife but didn't comment.

Olivia knew that her husband had dreaded Elliott's wedding day since the moment she came into his life. She remembered his words, once, when they were sitting by her pool. 'I don't want to think about her growing up, going to college, having a boyfriend, fiancé or whatever else young women are usually involved with.'

And here they were, twenty-two years later, and those feelings had only intensified. She was proud of their daughter, who had been patient with her father as he adjusted to his new position as the number two man in her life.

Fitz frowned. "She shouldn't be. This should be one of the best and happiest times of her life, and the last thing I want is for her not to enjoy it because of me. I'm going to be okay…eventually." He smiled at his wife when he said the last word.

Olivia reached out and traced his furrowed brow. "Fitz, for four years you had no idea that you'd fathered a child and once you found us, you were afraid that she'd grow up too fast. Well you've had almost twenty-two years together, and tomorrow afternoon she'll become someone's wife." She leaned up and kissed his chin. "It scares the hell out of me too. Trust me, it's not easy for a mother to let go of her firstborn either. But we have to, Fitz." Olivia saw the shimmer of tears in her husband's eyes.

"I know Livvie. But it's going to take me a little longer to get used to all of this." He sighed. "I don't know how I'm going to do this three more times. They will forever be my little girls, no matter their age," he said adamantly.

Olivia nodded and smiled at her husband. She knew this, which is why she didn't dare tell him about taking Sloane to visit a gynecologist for an exam and birth control, two weeks ago. She'd keep that bit of information to herself.

"I know babe, but I'll be here to help you get through it."

Fitz kissed her hair and pulled her closer, allowing the love he felt for this extraordinary woman to soothe his feelings. With her in his arms, nothing else mattered.

Olivia didn't know what else to say but she knew what she could do. She moved out of Fitz's arms and straddled his hap, and looked into his sad blue eyes. Seeing her husband this way was killing her. She gently took his face in her hands and spoke.

"This is happening, Fitz. In about sixteen hours, our eldest daughter is getting married."

"I know, but…"

Olivia shook her head. "No, no buts," she said, placing a finger over his lips. She leaned over and whispered near his ear. "Stop worrying."

He nodded before bringing her mouth to his and kissed her with all the love and passion that he felt for her. She reached between their bodies to caress the massive bulge in his pajama pants. "I want this. Now," she said against his lips.

Fitz's hand gripped the back of her head, playing in her curls while the other palmed her ass. As he squeezed the soft mounds, his dick grew harder, poking against her core. Olivia pulled away and smiled before climbing off his body, and off the bed. Turning her back to him, she glanced over her shoulder, giving him a sexy grin before removing the black silk and lace camisole she was wearing and tossing it on the bed, leaving her in a pair of matching lace cheeky panties. She threw back her head and laughed when Fitz barked.

Turning around to face him, she felt a tingle between her legs when he growled, "Bring your sexy ass back over here, Livvie."

She laughed as she quickly removed her panties and climbed back onto the bed. "I'm coming, baby."

"Damn straight you'll be coming," he said, before pulling her into his arms.

Saturday, July 2nd…

Elliott's wedding day dawned beautiful and sunny. There was a cloudless sky with a hint of a warm breeze. She hadn't slept more than four hours. Throughout the night she awoke time and again, too excited about this day. Finally, as the sun began its slow ascent above the calm ocean, she gave up, and left her bed.

Later she stood looking out of the wall of windows at the ocean as a few sailboats skimmed along the blue surface. She sighed. 'It's finally here,' she thought. After a year of planning, her wedding day had finally arrived. She felt the happiness of the day fill her heart and soul. The Grant-Mondesire ceremony was being called the wedding of the summer on the Vineyard, with a happy hour, six course sit down dinner, a band and a DJ.

She and Satchel were going on a ten day honeymoon to St. Lucia before returning to D.C. so Elliott could begin her residency. Satchel was now working at NASA headquarters in the District, and they'd moved into a condo in near Foggy Bottom, making their parents very happy.

Elliott smiled thinking about the man who would become her husband in about ten hours. She'd called him late last night, when she couldn't sleep, and tried to persuade him to come to Sugar Hill for a little pre-wedding day sex. Satchel had laughed sleepily and given her an emphatic, NO!

"No creeping when we're supposed to be sleeping, Elliott Grant," he said, chuckling, causing her to laugh along with him.

Elliott knew there was no way he'd disrespect her family's home by sneaking in and getting freaky with her under the roof at Sugar Hill, which is why she'd suggested meeting her on board My Ivey, but he'd nixed that idea as well.

She finally sighed in resignation when it became apparent that he wasn't budging. "You're a good man, Satchel Mondesire," she told him.

"My fiancée thinks so too," he replied. "I love you, Elle. Get some rest. We have a long day tomorrow."

"I love you more, Satch. Rest well, and I'll see you tomorrow at four o' clock, sharp. I'll be the one wearing white."

"I'll be waiting," he said before ending the call.

Elliott looked at the clock, willing time to move faster so she could finally see her boo. Her thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the bedroom door. She turned and walked across the large room, and opened the door. There stood her father dressed to go for a run, holding two mugs of steaming coffee, and grinning at her.

She went up on her tip toes and kissed his cheek. "Good morning, Daddy, and thank you for this," she said, reaching for the mug he offered her. They walked back over to the windows and sipped their coffee, watching the island come alive.

Elliott finally broke the silence. "Where's Mom?"

"She couldn't sleep last night and finally stopped tossing and turning about three hours ago. I didn't want to disturb her, so I let her sleep."

Elliott nodded in understanding. "I didn't get much sleep myself, which is why I'm awake at six-thirty."

Fitz leaned down and kissed his daughter's curls. "It's your wedding day, princess, that's expected."

"Really?" she asked, looking up at him with those big blue green eyes.

"Yep. I went for a run on the morning of my wedding. Had to burn off some adrenaline."

"Did it work?"

"Well, it was a chance to have a little time to myself before the craziness of the day began. I ran to the hotel where you and mother were staying, and I got to see her for a few minutes before she put me out." Of course he wouldn't dare tell her why Olivia had put him out of her suite.

They both laughed.

He nodded. "Yes, it worked."

Elliott turned to back to look out of the windows, and sip her coffee.

Fitz put an arm around her waist. "Would you like to run with me and Sloaney this morning? We'll let you set the pace." Of all his children, Sloane was the only one who actually liked to run, and could keep up with him. Elliott joined them sometimes, but she didn't love it. "I mean, we won't be running to Oaks Bluff to see Satchel," he said, hugging her tighter to his side. "But it might help to clear your head and calm your nerves."

Elliott considered his offer for a second before shaking her head 'no.' The women in her family had insisted she relax and do nothing more than breathe today, and that was exactly what she planned to do.

"I don't think so, Daddy."

"Oh well, that's okay, princess."

For some reason that endearment brought an even bigger smile to her face today. Her father had not let go of his childhood nickname for her, and she hoped he never would.

"Corinne and the rest of the staff are preparing breakfast. Are you coming downstairs? If not, I can have someone bring up a tray."

Elliott shook her head. "My bridesmaids and I are having breakfast together at eight, before we start our full-service beauty treatments."

They were all scheduled for massages, facials, waxing, manicures and pedicures. Lunch would be served and then hair and make-up.

"Okay," he said and kissed her cheek again. He turned to leave, but stopped and turned back to face his daughter. "I am so proud of you, and so happy about your wedding, Elle. You will always be my little princess, but today you will become Satchel's wife. You have been a wonderful daughter, my first baby, and because of you, I'm a better man and father. I love you, baby."

Elliott didn't even attempt to stop the tears from falling as she walked to her father and wrapped her arms tightly around his waist. "I love you too, Daddy."

Fitz didn't respond, he couldn't. But Elliott understood.

"Please be careful and don't fall and break anything. I won't be able to make it down the aisle without you."

Fitz chuckled. "I'll take my time." He lifted Elliott's chin. "And I'll always be here for you. Okay?"

"Okay," she whispered looking up at him with those eyes.

He hugged her one last time before turning and walking toward the door.

"Daddy?"

"Yes, princess?"

"My daddy is the best daddy in the whole wide world," she sang softly. It was a refrain she'd sang to him often when she was a little girl. Now, like then, Fitz's heart was so full he thought it would burst. He laughed to keep from crying before turning and walking out of the door and closing it behind him.

Hours later…

Olivia, the triplets and one of Roxy's assistants helped Elliott get dressed. She laughed and joked with her daughters, telling them about their father's early morning visit to her hotel suite on their wedding day. Of course she didn't tell them why he'd showed up or what he'd tried to do. Elliott smiled because she already knew some of the story.

Spencer laughed. "Daddy couldn't wait to see you, marry you and make you his wife, because he loves you so much."

Olivia nodded, surprised by Spencer's sentimental comment. "Yes he does, Spence. He's always told me that I'm the best thing to ever happen to him. And I am," she said, laughing along with her girls. Then she finally sobered and spoke again. "And so are his children."

Four sets of doe shaped eyes looked at her and smiled. They loved their father. Fiercely. The room became quiet, the only sound coming from the shutter of the photographer's camera. The Grant women worked in silence as they helped Elliott into her wedding attire.

When they finished, Elliott stood staring at her reflection in the oversized floor mirror in the corner of the room. The gown and veil, gifts from her parents, were her something new. The diamond pendant necklace around her neck had been gifted to her by her Grammy, from her extensive jewelry collection, when she'd turned sixteen, was something old. The pearl drop diamond earrings were borrowed from her Yaya, and the lace garter around her left thigh was blue. They had covered everything.

"Perfect," she heard Sloane say from behind her.

She turned and smiled at her sweet little sister, and then looked at her mother, who'd walked up and stood next to her.

"Is everything okay, Elle?" she asked, concern on her face.

Elliott blew out a breath. "I'm just starting to get nervous."

Olivia smiled, and air kissed her daughter's cheek. "Oh sweet pea, it's your wedding day. Most brides get a little nervous. I know I did. You are getting married, and it will change yours and Satchel's lives forever. But he's a wonderful man and he loves you very much. Everything's going to be okay," she said, as she tried to soothe her daughter's frayed nerves.

Elliott nodded and repeated her mother's words. "Everything's going to be okay."

"Don't start crying or you'll ruin your make-up, Elli," Spencer said, when she noticed her sister's eyes begin to fill with tears.

Elliott chuckled lightly as Olivia blotted the corners of her daughter's eyes.

Maxwell joined her mother and sister in front of the mirror. "Are you ready, Elli?"

Elliott looked at her sister with a huge grin on her beautiful face. "Girl, I'm more than ready to marry my man." They laughed, giving each other high fives, as everyone else in the room laughed along with them.

There was light knock on the connecting bedroom door. Olivia left to answer it, knowing it was probably Fitz. She opened the door and there stood her very hot husband with that lopsided grin, taking her in from the fascinator on top of her head to the crystal embellished four inch ankle-strap sandals on her feet.

He'd seen her earlier as she got dressed, so he knew what she was wearing. But she still took his breath away. The knee-length crepe sheath embroidered lace dress, with cap sleeves and beaded lace appliqués in a soft butter yellow, was altered to fit her tight body perfectly. The dress also had a matching knee-length capelet to cover her bare shoulders and back while she was in the church. She would remove it for the reception.

Her hair had been pulled into a neat bun and the custom fascinator in the same butter yellow shade, made of feathers, flowers and pearls, was perfectly placed on her head at an angle for full effect. He knew her stylist had searched for weeks for the perfect shoes and finally found the Badgley Mischka open toe sandals in matted light gold to compliment the ensemble. As always, her make-up was flawless and the only jewelry she wore was a pair of three carat princess cut diamond stud earrings, and her wedding rings. She was the epitome of classic elegance, the perfect mother of the bride; she was also beautiful, and she was all his.

"You're gorgeous, Mrs. Grant," he said.

"You're quite handsome yourself, Mr. Grant," she replied. Although sexy was probably a better description.

With his daughter's permission, he'd decided to forego a tuxedo and instead wore a custom Windsor base peak lapel, two-button, two piece suit in black, along with a pristine custom white spread collar dress shirt, black silk tie, leather lace up shoes, and personalized cuff links.

Together they looked as if they'd just stepped off the pages of a high fashion magazine.

They stood staring and smiling at one another until they were interrupted by the triplets, who walked into the room talking over each other. They stopped and looked at their father.

"Daddy, you're very handsome," Maxwell said, giving him a nod of approval.

"He sure is," Spencer agreed, smiling at him.

Sloane walked up and kissed his cheek. "I agree with my sisters," she said, as she wiped the trace of her lipstick from his cheek.

Fitz struck a few poses which made his wife and daughters laugh.

"The three of you are absolutely beautiful," he said, smiling at his triplets.

"Thank you, Daddy," they chorused.

Spencer and Sloane wore one shoulder, silk chiffon gowns with a side slit in canary yellow, while maid of honor Maxwell wore the strapless version in purple. They'd all decided to wear their hair in updos which showed off their bridesmaid's gift in their ears, yellow citrine studs.

Fitz pulled Maxwell, Spencer and Sloane into his arms and the photographer began to snap away. They were all hamming it up for the camera when Rowe yelled upstairs that the trolley, hired to take the wedding party to the church, had arrived. They also heard Christine Grant telling Rowe to use his "inside voice," and they laughed. Spencer and Sloane kissed their sister and then their parents before they quickly exited the room. Maxwell was riding to the church with the bride and their parents.

Fitz looked at his wife. "Is she ready?"

Olivia nodded. "Yes, she's just waiting for you." She took his hand and led him through the connecting bathroom to the other bedroom. They were followed by Maxwell.

When they walked into the room, Elliott was smoothing her hands down the length of her dress, fanning the skirt of the gown around her small frame. It was everything she had ever hoped it would be.

Fitz stopped abruptly and put his hand over his heart. "Wow!" he said. "Just, wow!"

Olivia stood with her arm around Maxwell, and they both smiled at Fitz's reaction.

"Daddy," Elliott said, just above a whisper.

"Look at...look at my baby," he said, his voice catching and his eyes filling with tears.

"How do I look?" she asked as she held her arms out at her sides.

"You look beautiful, princess. As beautiful as your mother looked on our wedding day." He glanced at his wife. "Satchel is a very, very lucky man, and you are the perfect bride."

Elliott was stunning in a custom Vera Wang, light ivory strapless silk crepe trumpet gown with a sweetheart bustier that she'd worked with the designer to create. They got a lot done during her trips to New York City for fittings because, with school and studying, it wasn't easy for the bride to get away. The end result was the timeless and elegant look she was going for. The trumpet silhouette, with architectural draping, featured a ten foot cathedral lace train embroidered in delicate crystal and pearl accents, and a delicately pleated ten foot tulle and pearl embellished birdcage veil. Rhinestone sandals designed by Manolo Blahnik completed her custom look.

"Oh, Daddy," she said as she walked into her father's arms and pressed her cheek to his as her mother wiped her tears, trying to keep them from ruining her make-up.

Olivia walked over to her clutch and removed a small cream envelope. "This is for you, sweet pea."

Elliott looked at her mother, who now stood with her arm around her husband's waist, before opening the envelope and removing the single sheet of paper. Curious, she began to read.

To our precious Elliott,

Today you are the bride, the center of attention, and our beautiful joy and gift. You are never far from our thoughts and our hearts. Thank you for being our "practice" child, and for teaching us more than we could ever teach you. We love you, sweet pea. We will love you forever, and like you for always. As long as we are living, you will always be our first baby.

Today is your wedding day, the most special day of your life. Today you will walk down the aisle, radiating beauty, leaning on your father's arm, to meet the man you will take as the chosen love of your life, a man who loves you with all his heart. Today this man will take you as his wife, for better or worse.

We could not be more proud of the young woman you've become. You are head strong and confident. Stubborn and feisty. Loving and giving. Sweet and sassy. You are our child. Our daughter. The one who has been loved and cherished since conception, the one who made us parents, the one we fell in love with over twenty-five years ago. Our hearts are full today. We love you, and cannot wait to see this next chapter of your life unfold.

With love, always and forever,

Mommy and Daddy

When she finished she looked at her parents as her big blue green eyes filled with tears, and then collapsed into their arms. They both wrapped them around their daughter, their first baby.

"Oh come on guys, what was that about? You're ruining her make-up," Maxwell complained from behind them. They turned to look at her, tears streaming down all their cheeks. She huffed and then threw up her hands. "I'll go and get Denise so she can repair your make-up, Elli. And yours too, Mom." She turned and quickly left the room.

Olivia was reminded of her wedding day when her mother had given her a small picture of her paternal grandparents, including the grandmother she'd never met, to wear pinned inside her gown. Like Elliott, she'd gone into the ugly cry, and Cecily had reacted the same way as Maxwell.

"We love you, princess. Now you have someone else to love and care for you almost as much as we do."

Elliott could only nod.

It only took Denise ten minutes to fix both Elliott's and Olivia's faces. When she finished, Fitz assisted his wife into her capelet, while Maxwell held a bottle of water with a straw to her sister's lips. As they prepared to leave, the photographer took pictures of the four of them together.

There was a brief knock on the door. Fitz opened it to Corinne.

"The car is here, Mr. Fitz," she said.

"Thank you, Corinne."

She nodded and turned to walk away.

"Well ladies, looks like it's time."

Elliott looked at her father. "Are you ready to give me away?"

Fitz shook his head. "Never. But I know you'll be in good hands."

"I will be, Daddy."

"I know. Now let's go get you married. I've gotten several text messages saying that Satchel's as anxious as a kid on Christmas morning."

Elliott laughed. "That's a good thing, right?"

"Oh, princess, that's a wonderful thing. Love is a wonderful thing."

He took one hand while Olivia took the other. Maxwell stood behind her holding up her train as the four Grants left the bedroom, and headed downstairs for the ride to the church.

Elliott knew her father could feel her trembling as he covered her hand draped over the sleeve of his suit jacket. The flower girls had just walked through the closed doors, and father and daughter had moved into position.

"I'm not going to cry. I am not going to cry," Elliott whispered over and over as she clutched her father's arm.

Fitz placed his free hand over his daughter's ice cold fingers. "Please don't cry princess. You know if you start crying your mother's going to start, and I won't be able to handle it."

Elliott nodded and took a deep breath, holding it before she exhaled slowly.

"Are you ready, Elle?"

Of course this wasn't the first time her father had asked if she was ready to marry Satchel, and this time like every other time, her answer was, "yes, Daddy, I'm ready." And she was. She was ready to become Mrs. Bradley Satchel Mondesire II.

"Then let's do this."

They heard the music change and the introduction to 'You Are So Beautiful' began. Satchel had chosen the wedding music and was adamant that this song be sung as his beautiful bride walked down the aisle. His cousin began to sing the first verse.

You are so beautiful
To me
You are so beautiful
To me
Can't you see
You're everything I hoped for
You're everything I need
You are so beautiful
To me.

Fitz nodded to Hayes Wright III and Alec Grant, who were standing at the doors, waiting. "Open them please."

A gasp was heard as friends and family rose to receive the stunning bride on her father's arm. They counted to ten before he began to slowly escort her down the flower strewn white runner to where her handsome groom stood waiting. She kept her focus on Satchel because if she looked at her mother, tante or grandmothers, she'd lose it. Instead, she focused on the man who in a matter of minutes would become her husband.

Olivia Grant stood along with the wedding guests and turned to watch as her husband led their firstborn down the aisle to where Satchel waited to make her his wife. All eyes were on the beautiful young woman in white as she and her father moved slowly down the aisle. Her baby. Tears filled her eyes, and she felt Cecily's hand slip into hers and squeeze. Olivia looked at her sister. Tears were falling down her cheeks unchecked, and she didn't care. Her little patootie was getting married.

The tears Olivia had been trying to hold finally streamed down her cheeks as Fitz and Elliott approached the altar. She used her Gem's lace handkerchief to wipe them away. Cecily placed her hand on her shoulder and Olivia squeezed it. Without saying any words, the sisters gave each other the strength to make it through the ceremony without breaking down into more tears.

Satchel stood at the altar in front of the church awaiting his bride. He glanced at his parents who weren't sitting too far from him. Thea Mondesire dabbed at her eyes, while Bradley Mondesire attempted to console his wife. He smiled, shaking his head.

As his cousin began the first verse of the song he'd chosen for his bride, to let her know how he felt, Satchel eagerly searched the back of the church. Elliott stepped through the opened doors on the arm of her father, and tears welled in his eyes. This beautiful woman was angelic as she walked down the aisle toward him, fighting to hold her own tears at bay. She had never looked more surreal, more beautiful as she appeared to float toward the altar. It felt like a dream, and he fell in love all over again.

Elliott smiled at Satchel as he mouthed, "I love you."

"Me, too," she mouthed back.

She then saw her brother, her sugar bear, wipe away tears, and then lean around best man Brian Bennett to whisper something to Satchel.

"My sister is very, very beautiful," he said.

Satchel could only nod, agreeing with his almost brother-in-law.

When father and daughter got closer, Satchel stood in awe. "My God! She…she looks amazing," his voice cracking with emotion.

"ALL Grant women are beautiful," Rowe said smugly.

She smiled when they gave each other a pound.

The triplets were on the other side of the altar grinning and pointing at their beautiful big sister, and wiping away tears of excitement.

Retired Judge Elijah Spencer Pope discreetly wiped his eyes and adjusted his black robe as he watched his first grandchild walk toward him and her new life, on the arm of her father. Elliott's heart melted when he placed his hand over his heart when she and father made it to the altar. He winked and smiled at her, and a big grin spread across his face. She winked and smiled back.

Satchel moved to stand next to his bride and his eyes took in every inch of her beautiful face. "I love you more than life itself." A murmur could be heard from those sitting close enough to overhear his heartfelt words. She smiled in response as she felt hot tears prick the back of her eyes, and they both turned to face her grandfather.

"I have for the first time found what I can truly love, I have found you." Judge Pope began.

"Who gives this woman in marriage?"

Fitz bit his lip and inhaled. He'd warned Elliott about becoming emotional, and for a few seconds he couldn't find his own voice. Finally, he smiled at his daughter.

"Her mother and I do."

Leaning down, he kissed Elliott's cheek before placing her hand in Satchel's. "Be good to my daughter," he said.

Satchel nodded and smiled. "Yes, sir." He then gazed at Elliott knowing in that moment that he never wanted to take his eyes off of her. She was the most stunning woman he had ever known and she would forever be all his.

Fitz stepped back and sat on the pew next to his wife. They shared a smiled, then a kiss before taking each other's hand, and settling back to watch the exchange of vows between their daughter and the man who'd promised to love and protect her for the rest of his life.

Elliott handed her bouquet to a grinning Maxwell, and then turned to look at her beloved. He mouthed beautiful, and she gave him a sensual smile. She heard her grandfather without listening to the words. She came out of her trance when Maxwell handed her a platinum wedding band to place on Satchel's finger. She repeated her vows in a voice she didn't recognize as her own.

What she did remember was Satchel taking her face between his hands and softly kissing her after her grandfather told him he could kiss his bride. It was over. They were now husband and wife.

"I love you," she whispered against his lips.

Wrapping his arms around his new wife's waist, Satchel lifted her off her feet and spun her around, eliciting laughter and loud applause from their guests who were on their feet. She gasped.

"Satch!"

He held her close, grinning at her. "Yes, Mrs. Mondesire?"

Wrapping her arms around his neck, she kissed him again. "Congratulations, Mr. Mondesire."

He lowered his forehead to hers. "Congratulations to you, too. I think we better let the judge finish so we can get the real party started."

They both turned to Judge Pope who stood looking at the newly married couple with an amused smile on his face.

"Are you two ready?" he finally asked, chuckling.

Elliott grinned at her grandfather and nodded. "We're ready, Pop Pop."

They turned to face their guests, who had come to witness one of the most momentous days in their lives.

In a booming and clear voice, the judge announced, "Ladies and gentlemen, friends and family, I present to you for the very first time, Mr. and Mrs. Bradley Satchel Mondesire II." The guests, who were still on their feet, broke into more applause.

Elliott accepted a kiss from Maxwell as she took her bouquet. She then let out a squeal and threw back her head, laughing loudly as her husband lifted her in his arms and carried her back up the flower strewn aisle, followed by their wedding party, to the sounds of laughter, whistles and thunderous applause.

Reception…

The newly married couple had taken many pictures together, with their wedding party and with their families and friends. Their guests were treated to food, food, and more food, danced to music provided by the band and DJ, multiple toasts, both her sorority's and his fraternity's sweetheart songs were sung, and they'd had their first dance together.

Elliott had no idea what song Satchel had chosen, and just decided to go along with whatever. She knew her husband's taste in music, and knew that it was probably going to be old, old, old school. That is why she was not surprised when she heard the intro to one of his favorites, 'You and Me.' She loved this one too, and thought it was perfect. He'd taught her how to two-step to this song.

How would you feel
If I asked you to spend your whole life with me
Baby believe in me
'Cause a stronger love for you from someone else, would never be

Yeah, it's real, it's real, it's real
I've never felt this way before
So say you'll be mine
Together we will open every door

You and me
Together forever
You and me
Just us two

By the time the second verse began, their parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles had also joined them on the dance floor. She smiled at her parents as her father smoothly swung her mother out and around, and as they had since forever, their bodies moved in perfect sync.

The couple then danced with their parents and everyone else, before cutting the cakes and tossing the bouquet and garter. At nine o' clock they slipped inside the main house to change before they would take the Grant jet to Boston and spend the night, before flying on to St. Lucia to begin their honeymoon.

Later, Elliott sat at the bridal table with her head on her husband's shoulder watching her friends and family on the dance floor. She'd changed into a vintage Chanel couture dress that she'd found in Paris the previous summer when she'd gone with her mother and sister's for the twin's high school graduation gift. She wore four inch strappy sandals and had let her hair down, and it hung down her back in waves.

She laughed at her Grampy, who was currently on the dance floor dancing with his beloved twins. Spencer and Sloane each had a hand and were swinging out with him. He'd been battling health issues lately but was determined to make it to his first ladybug's wedding and reception. He'd done everything his doctor had ordered and got a clean bill of health. Her grandfather was having the time of his life, and that made her very happy.

Looking around, her eyes landed on her parents who stood together near one of the tent's entrances, with their arms around each other, watching JR and their daughters. She smiled. Her parents were still in love. She had seen their sly glances throughout the reception when they didn't think anyone noticed, and on more than one occasion she saw her father caress her mother's body in a way that made her feel she was intruding on their privacy.

Her father leaned down and whispered in her mother's ear and not long after that, they disappeared.

"I want to make love to you right now, Livvie," Fitz whispered near his wife's ear.

She looked up at him to see if he was serious. He was. She shook her head. "Fitz, we can't."

"Why not, baby?"

She gestured toward the large air-conditioned tent where the reception was still in full effect. "We can't leave our guests."

"Wanna bet?" he asked, taking her hand and attempting to pull her toward the main house. "Come with me. Please?" He asked, grinning at her.

Olivia smiled at her husband as bit by bit her resistance began to wane. She would do this because she knew the day had been hard for her him. It had been emotional and bittersweet for them both, but her husband was still emotionally reeling.

She took one more look at their guests and nodded to her husband, allowing him to lead her toward the main house. Giggling like two naughty school kids, they entered through a side door in hopes that they wouldn't be noticed. Instead, they came to an abrupt halt. Sitting around the room across from the door were Fitz's and Olivia's siblings, cousins and in-laws.

"Fitz! Liv!" Harrison called out to them. "Come join us. We're taking a break; letting the young people have it." He was sitting in a wingback chair holding an unlit Louixs cigar between his index and middle fingers, and smiling at them as if he knew what they were up to.

The couple knew their plan to run upstairs for a quickie had been thwarted. Shrugging, they walked into the seldom used den and joined the others.

The room's occupant's laughed and talked, while several glasses of wine and snifters of Double Barrel whiskey were being consumed. They were all relaxed, enjoying themselves until Harrison brought up Fitz's champagne toast during dinner. He'd become so emotional, Elliott had stood and went to hug him, while his brother finished the toast. There wasn't a dry among the guests.

"Despite a year to prepare a father of the bride speech for my daughter, I am still left standing here today, speechless at how beautiful she looks." He smiled at Elliott and continued. "Of all the things I've done in my lifetime, being your father and caring for you is by far my biggest achievement. Today…you begin…" He swallowed and when he attempted to speak, his voice hitched. Clearing his throat, he started again. "Today my daughter begins a new life and there will be…" He shook his head and his daughter stood and walked over to him. She pulled him into her arms as Ford Grant stood and finished the toast.

When Elliott stepped away, Fitz took his seat next to his wife. Olivia reached out and wiped his tears and then hers. He leaned down and kissed her softly on the lips. No words were spoken because they were unnecessary.

"What happened, Fitz?" Harrison teased, with a huge grin on his face. "You know you may have to do this three more times."

"Leave him alone," Sumner warned Harrison, knowing from experience what his cousin was feeling.

"You got something you want to say to my brother?" Ford asked.

Harrison's smile grew wider as he took another sip of whiskey. Neither Ford nor Sumner scared him. "Nope. Just wondering what came over my man."

"I'm going to assume that your teasing is a result of the large amounts of that very fine, aged whiskey you've consumed, Harry," Fitz finally said, pointing at the snifter in Harrison's hand.

"I know you aren't talking, Harry," Olivia added, from her spot on her husband's lap. "I heard that you cried real tears when your daughters got their first periods, their first bras AND went on their first dates." She smirked at her cousin.

Harrison's head snapped around to his wife who was talking to Bebe, Leah and Gisele. She frowned at him and shrugged, before going back to her conversation.

After a few seconds, the room erupted in laughter.

Harrison laughed along with everybody else, and looked at his cousin before throwing up his hands in surrender.

"You win, Liv." Standing to his feet, he opened his arms to her, and she stood and walked into them.

"Even though you're a pompous and arrogant ass, I still love you, Harry."

"And I love you too…Itty Bitty," he said, before trying to kiss her as she pushed him away. He laughed along with everybody else, knowing she hated that nickname.

Olivia raised her fist and shook her head at her cousin before turning to her husband, who was still laughing, and reached out her hand to him.

"When you've finished laughing, we need to rejoin the party, babe."

Fitz sobered before he drained his snifter and stood. "Ladies, gentleman," he said, and took his wife's hand. Together they left the room. When they were out of earshot, Fitz stopped and gave his wife a sexy grin before pulling her into a small, empty office. He closed and locked the door, and hugged her close to him. "I can't wait to get you in bed tonight," he whispered.

Olivia shivered. "Good. I want to finish what we tried to start." Her hands moved down between them and rested on the thick bulge in his pants.

He lowered his mouth to her for a tender kiss. "Livvie, you better stop," he murmured against her mouth.

She deepened the kiss at the feel of his growing erection pressing against her. When she moved against his dick, Fitz held her hips still. "You're not playing fair, Livvie," he said. "You know what you're doing to me, right?"

Olivia laughed when he nudged her with his pelvis. "That feels like a personal problem to me, Mr. Grant."

"Oh, it's very personal, Mrs. Grant. It's about as personal as you can get."

"I don't doubt it," she said and kissed his lips.

"How many hours before the reception ends?"

She lifted his arm and looked at his watch. "At least two."

Fitz groaned. "I may get blue balls before then."

She gave him a throaty laugh. "I'll cure your 'blue balls,' later."

Fitz's laughter filled the empty room. "I'm looking forward to that cure."

"I thought you would." She grabbed his hand and unlocked the door. "Come on, the sooner this party is over, the sooner we can be alone."

"Say no more, Mrs. Grant," he said as he opened the door and led his wife back to their daughter's reception/party.

Later that night, after a fireworks display that lit up the entire island, Satchel and Elliott said goodbye to their families and their friends before leaving the tent and climbing into the back of the waiting SUV that would take them to Martha's Vineyard Airport for their short flight to Boston. They waved as the vehicle made its way to the gate and exited Sugar Hill. Elliott slipped out of her shoes and rested her head on her husband's lap. The car was quiet as it drove on the dark road.

"I love you, Satchel," she said as she fell asleep.

He leaned down and kissed her hair. "I love you too."

Satchel closed his eyes, whispering a prayer of thanks. He had told Elliott if she said yes to marrying him, he would spend the rest of his life loving her, supporting her and making her as happy as she made him. And that's just what he intended to do.

Fitz and Olivia remained on the driveway at Sugar Hill saying goodbye until their last guest had departed. He then put his arm around his wife and they walked around to the back of the main house. When they got to the large patio, they ran into their daughters and a few of their cousins, who were headed down to the beach for a bonfire.

Their son and his "date," Delaney, had left with Hayes Jr. and his family. Rowe was sleeping over with Hayes III, but no one was fooled. Delaney's family was renting the house a few doors down, and he wanted to hang out with her a little while longer. Of course Fitz and Olivia had reminded him about being respectful, and consent. Just in case.

"Did you see Max and Satchel's cousin? She could hardly make a move without his eyes following her. He was also quite attentive and she seemed to enjoy it. Who knows, she could be next," Olivia chuckled.

Fitz stopped walking and looked at his wife. "Oh come on Livvie. It's too soon. We literally just married off our first daughter seven hours ago, and I'm still trying to wrap my mind around that. Max is twenty years old, and I'm not ready to think about another daughter getting married."

Olivia kissed the pout from her husband's lips. "Aww, I'm sorry baby. I won't mention it again."

He nodded. "Thank you."

He put his arm around her waist and they walked into the back door. To their surprise, Christine and Lennore Grant were seated at the island in the kitchen drinking tea, and talking like old friends. They looked at one another, said goodnight to the frenemies and headed toward the stairs and their third floor bedroom.

Fitz had removed his tie and jacket, and carried them along with Olivia's shoes as they climbed the stairs. She leaned into him as he hugged tight.

"I've thought about this all day."

She looked up at him, confused. "Thought about what?"

"How our lives have come full circle."

"Oh?"

"Yep. Twenty-seven years ago, we met and fell in love on this island. Five years later, we became engaged on this island, and today, twenty-one years later, the first child we created from our love got married on this island."

Tears misted Olivia's eyes. At that moment she had never loved or wanted him more. "If I recall, twenty-seven years ago, we didn't have sex," she said, giving him a wicked grin.

Fitz grinned back at his wife. "And if I recall, you said you were going to cure me of my little problem." He glanced down at his crotch.

Olivia licked her lips, her eyes following his. "Oh don't worry, mister, I've got this. You just need to lay back and enjoy the ride."

Fitz chuckled as he lowered his hand and squeezed her butt cheek. He knew he was in for an erotic night. Making love to his wife could go from slow and sweet one minute to hot and passionate and then dark and dirty depending on her mood, or his. And he couldn't wait.

"Oh I am definitely going to love this cure," he said as he opened the door to their bedroom.

Olivia kissed his chin. "I thought you would," she whispered before turning to walk into the room with Fitz close behind.

"Oh Livvie, if only you knew. If. Only. You. Knew." He kicked the door closed behind him with his foot as the hypnotic sway of his wife's hips beckoned him inside. He was ready for the night, and whatever else the future held for them.