As always, thank you for reading my story. Most of you know by now that my writing is very descriptive, but it still seems to bother some of you. I can't stress this enough: IT'S NOT GOING TO CHANGE. Thank you to all of you who read IOYK and enjoy it.
TBOT
The morning after…
Saturday morning, Hollywood Hills
Olivia woke to the warmth of Fitz's body wrapped around her. His muscular arm lay draped across her waist. His face rested cozily on her shoulder, a few inches from her face. She sighed. She felt peace in his arms.
Neither of them could get enough of the other. Their loving had continued into the early morning hours, until Fitz became concerned about her comfort. "I can't have you all sore and limping at the party tonight." He'd run a hot bath and bathed her aching body so sensuously that the orgasm had shattered her like glass.
After her bath, he draped her in a fluffy towel and carried her back to bed, pulled the duvet over them and promptly fell asleep. Olivia had been too wired to rest. Fitz had given Miss Olivia the workout of her life. There was a noticeable ache between her thighs, but it was a good ache.
"Good morning, Livvie."
Olivia smiled. "I was just thinking about you."
Fitz hugged her to him, nuzzling her neck. "I'm glad."
"I thought you were asleep." She moved against him, unable to get close enough.
"Who can sleep with you here?" He grinned down at her. "I'm surprised you let me get a nap, the way you've been all over me."
She pretended to be insulted and moved away from his warmth and swatted at him. "I was what? You take that back!"
Fitz chuckled at her antics. Happy to see her happy and so playful. "No, I won't."
Olivia grabbed a pillow and held it above her head. "No? Don't you ever say no to me!" She was enjoying this game until she noticed the glint of humor in his eyes change to desire.
Removing the pillow from her, he tossed it aside, took her hand and placed a tender kiss in her palm. He whispered, "I could never deny you anything." His words had their intended effect. She lowered her body to cover his, feeling completely content. They both sighed as Fitz rubbed his hands up and down her back.
He stilled his hands and wrapped his arms around her. He covered her mouth with his and she opened her lips to him. The taste and feel of his kiss was becoming familiar, just like the feel of his hands all over her body. Olivia's hands began to roam his chest, rubbed his nipples and stroke his torso. She broke their kiss and moved to kiss his jawline and down his neck.
"I love the way you smell," she whispered in his ear.
"I love the way you smell, Livvie." He'd used her Laura Mercier Crème Brulee Body Wash when he'd bathed her and himself earlier. He ran the back of his hand over the soft skin of her breasts. "And you feel like my fantasies."
Olivia lifted her head to look down at him. "You've been fantasizing about me?"
Fitz grinned. "If only you knew."
"Well I've had a few fantasies of my own, mister."
Fitz's smile vanished. Olivia fantasized about me? He thought.
She looked at him seductively before moving down his body. She paused to caress his nipples with her lips and tongue. Fitz's stomach muscles clenched from her touch. His body stiffened. Olivia kept moving before stopping just above his hips. She blew a soft breath against his sex and Fitz gritted his teeth. Her tongue slid up his cock from his top to his root once, twice.
The third time, she took him into her mouth. Fitz's hips rose off the bed. He pressed his head hard into the pillow while Olivia worked her hands, lips and tongue around him. She moved fast and then slow, pushing him to the edge of his self-control.
"No! Please, Livvie! Stop! He pleaded.
Olivia released him and looked up at him. "Did I do something wrong?"
The uncertainty in her voice almost gutted him. He shook his head. "You did everything too right. But I want to come inside you."
She gave him a sexy grin before he pulled her up to lay beside him, and then turned her onto her back. "My turn."
Fitz lowered his head to her breasts and pulled one into his mouth. Olivia bit her bottom lip to keep from screaming out in pleasure. She arched her back to offer him more. His teeth grazed her nipple while his tongue teased and stroked. Olivia couldn't catch her breath.
"You're probably sore from earlier, so how about this…
Fitz slid down her petite body, touching and teasing her in all of her sensitive spots. He moved between her legs, spreading them wider. Then he rose on his knees, grasped her hips and lifted her to his mouth. Her fingers caught the sheet, holding it in a death grip.
She was on fire!
"No more, Fitz," she pleaded. She couldn't take any more. But he was relentless. He was intent on wiping away the memory of every man who'd touched her, kissed her or just wanted her from a distance. He wanted her forever, and if that wasn't possible, she would be left with the memories.
He released her legs and moved back up her body. Reaching for another condom, he sheathed himself before whispering in her ear. "Relax, baby. If I hurt you, then I'll stop." He then lifted her ankles to his shoulders and gently entered her.
"Don't stop," Olivia whispered. Fitz pushed into her body slowly. There was some discomfort, but it didn't lessen her need for him.
She moaned out loud. "Now, Fitz," she pleaded.
"Now!"
Pulling back, he pushed himself into her tight, little body again. She lowered her legs and wrapped them around his waist.
Olivia met Fitz's thrusts. She took everything he offered, giving as well as receiving. It was only a matter of minutes before she screamed out her release, shaking uncontrollably as her screams turned to moans.
Fitz tried to hold back his own release. He didn't want it to end. Not yet. But her moans were his undoing. He had to let go. Gripping the pillow behind her head, he lowered his head between her neck and shoulder and groaned before his body exploded. He finally surrendered to the pleasure.
Opening his eyes, he stared at her moist face. Her eyes were closed, her breasts rising and falling heavily, and never had he seen her look more beautiful. They lay joined together until Olivia tried to push him off of her. He'd become dead weight.
Somehow he managed enough strength to roll off of her body. Slipping off the bed, he walked to the bathroom to discard the condom. Olivia was lying on her back, staring at the ceiling when he returned. He climbed into bed, reached for her hand and laced their fingers together.
"Are you okay, Livvie?" he asked.
"Yes."
"I lo-adore you," he caught himself.
"I know," she replied quietly. And she did. She also knew that he loved her but understood what saying those words to her right now would do. As much as she cared about Fitz, wanted to love him, she found herself still unable to cross that invisible barrier. She would never allow herself to be that vulnerable to anyone ever again.
That was her last thought before Fitz pulled her on top of him. They breathed in sync until sleep claimed them for the second time that morning.
X
Daylight had filtered through the sheers of the bedroom when Olivia opened her eyes later that morning. Turning over, she reached for Fitz but he wasn't there. Moaning softly, she turned over to peer at the clock on a side table. It was minutes before eight. She sat up and swung her legs over the side of the bed. She let out a soft gasp when the soreness between her thighs reminded her of what she'd shared all night and most of the early morning with her lover.
Lover. She found it easier to think of Fitz as her lover rather than anything more. Lovers came and went, while partners were more committed to a relationship than she and Fitz were. The word did make her smile. Her relationship with Fitzgerald Grant had in fact reached another level. They were friends and now, lovers. She shivered as she thought about their passionate coupling. Making love with him was everything she'd expected, and then some. After a few months of celibacy, it had been well worth the wait.
Looking around the large and beautifully decorated room, she noticed her bag sitting near the door. Her first priority was taking a shower to wash away the stickiness between her thighs and the sweat from her body. Standing, her legs felt shaky and her body tingled from their night and early morning of passion. She took ginger steps to the bathroom. Her toiletry bag lay open on the double countertop, where Fitz had left it earlier that morning.
She looked at herself in the mirror wondering if she looked as different as she felt. She felt rejuvenated and alive. That was because of Fitz Grant and his ministrations. She smiled at the memories. She knew she would never be the same. Turning away, she walked over to the shower and turned on the water before going back to the counter to brush her teeth and cleanse her face.
The bathroom had begun to steam up by the time she stepped into the shower stall under the multiple heads and adjusted the water temperature. Slowly she scrubbed her body with the same body wash Fitz had used, taking extra care of a tender Miss Olivia. She rinsed away the scent of their lovemaking before shutting off the water and opening the shower door.
As she reached for a towel on the nearby towel warmer, she saw movement out of the corner of her eye. She held the towel in front of her, attempting to hide her nakedness.
Fitz just smiled at her. It wasn't as if he hadn't seen every inch of her glorious body. His fingers had strummed that same body into multiple orgasms.
Turning, she saw Fitz's broad shoulders filling the doorway. Her gaze swept his toned body; from his unshaven jaw, his fitted tee, his sweatpants hanging low on his hips to his sock covered feet.
They stood staring at each other until Fitz walked up to her. Without a word, he eased the towel from her loose grip before wrapping it around her body and tucking it under her breasts. He picked her up in his arms, carried her back to the bedroom and placed her on the bed. It was apparent that someone had changed the linen while she was in the shower.
He dried her body as Olivia stared up at him, enjoying the feel of his hands moving over her body.
She reached up and rubbed his jaw.
"You didn't shave."
"Yeah, I know. I decided to give my face a rest. Don't worry, I'll shave tonight."
Olivia smiled. "I don't mind a little stubble." She kissed his chin.
"Maybe. But I'll shave anyway."
He was looking at her when he saw her wince as he dried the area between her thighs. He stopped.
"Be honest, Livvie. Did I hurt you?" he asked.
"No," she answered truthfully.
"You're very small."
"I'm probably tight because it's been a while since I've had sex."
Fitz didn't want to get into a debate about how small or tight she was, but he did make a mental note to be a more gentle with her. And he didn't want to correct her about having sex. What they'd shared went beyond sex.
"Don't move," he whispered in her ear.
"Where am I going?" she teased.
He moved off the bed and walked into the bathroom.
Olivia stared after him. She'd wanted to tell him she wasn't as small as he was large. She moaned as she shifted her legs. The muscles in her groin were on fire. She really needed to soak in a tub of warm water. Alone.
Fitz returned to the bed with her Laura Mercier body cream. He helped her turn over onto her stomach before he sat down next to her and squeezing the cream into the palm of his hand. She drew in a deep breath when he lathered her body with cream, massaging it into her skin while kneading the muscles in her neck, back legs and feet.
Olivia lost track of time as she savored the full body massage. She was so relaxed, she was sure she couldn't move if she needed to.
"Where did you learn to do this?"
"I studied with an elderly masseuse in Chinatown recommended by my personal trainer. Massage is one of the oldest forms of therapy. The way to health is a scented bath and an oiled massage every day."
She could certainly agree with that. "I'll take one once a week."
"Are you asking for a weekly massage, sweet baby?"
"Absolutely," she said, as another moan slipped from her mouth.
Resting his chin on her shoulder, he started to grind into her back.
"I need to get dressed, Fitz," she whispered.
"I like you naked," he murmured as he moved and began to place kisses along her spine.
"I'm hungry, baby."
"So am I."
"N-o-o-o!" she screamed as he turned her over, slid down her body and buried his face between her thighs.
X
Olivia sat across the island in the kitchen from Fitz, eating a bowl of fruit and drinking her morning tea. She stared at him as he sipped steaming coffee from a mug.
"Aren't you going to eat something?"
His gaze met hers before he broke into that crooked smile. "I ate already. I had you."
"Fitzgerald!"
The heat from a blush started in her chest and crept up to her cheeks. She'd shared that form of lovemaking with her ex, but it was different with Fitz. He was damn good at it. So good that she'd lost the ability to protest or to think. His tongue had her writhing on the bed, pleading with him to stop. But he hadn't stopped until she was screaming his name…again. They'd lain in bed until hunger pains had forced them to get up.
Olivia smiled as she nibbled on a chunk of pineapple and thought about her sister's ribald remarks about what Fitz liked to eat. She hadn't needed to ask, he'd just invited himself to the buffet, over and over again.
Fitz peered at her over the rim of his mug. "So what do you want for breakfast, sweet baby?"
There was that term of endearment again. She put her finger to her cheek, as if deep in thought, before answering. "French Toast!"
He laughed at her playful antics. "You're in luck, darling. I have all of the ingredients and with you as my sous chef, it shouldn't us take long."
Standing, he walked around the island and stuck out his hand to her. She grabbed it and stood from her seat. She followed him as he walked to a large drawer and removed an apron. He draped it over her head and tied it before sending her on a scavenger hunt for ingredients. He smiled as she rushed around the kitchen. This was going to be fun.
X
Saturday evening
"Hello." He'd answered before the second ring.
"Fitz, darling. This is your mother. How are you?" she asked.
"I'm well, Mom."
"Well that's good to hear. Ford told me you declined to take a meeting in his steed here in New York next week, so I thought perhaps something was wrong. Are you okay?"
Putting his mother on speaker, he tied his tie. He had less than twenty minutes to finish dressing before the driver arrived to take him and Olivia to the LaSalle's home for the party. He would've driven, but he didn't want to worry about his alcohol intake and he wanted to concentrate on Olivia and enjoying their evening out.
"Do you have me on speaker, Fitzgerald?"
"Yes, I do, Mom."
"You know I hate it when you do that."
"I can't hold the phone, talk to you and get dressed at the same time." Fitz said as he turned down his shirt collar.
"Do you want me to call you back at another time?" Christine Grant asked.
He took her off speakerphone.
"I'm sorry, Mom, but my mind was elsewhere."
"Who is she?"
Fitz had been tying his shoelaces when she asked the question. He stopped. "What makes you think it's a woman?"
"Fitzgerald, there aren't many times I've known you to say no to your brother when it comes to business."
Fitz smiled on the other end. "You think you know me that well?" he asked his mother.
"I'm your mother, of course I do." She laughed.
"Well what else do you know, Mom?"
She changed the subject. "Tell me what's going on in L.A."
"The Max is on schedule and it looks like it's going to meet its July completion date."
"I'm not talking about your construction project, Fitzgerald."
"What are you talking about, Mom?"
She was quiet for a few seconds. "Is there someone who has caught your eye?"
Fitz couldn't and wouldn't lie to his mother. Neither of his parents, really.
"Yes."
"Is she nice?"
He smiled. His mother always asked if he'd met a nice girl. "Yes, Mom. She's very nice."
"Nice enough to marry?"
"Whoa, Mom. You're getting ahead of yourself."
Christine let out a sigh. "I just hope you don't date her for a while and then drop her like you've done the others."
"I stopped dating the others because I didn't like them enough to commit." He didn't tell her that he would commit to and marry Olivia tomorrow if she'd have him.
Fitz frowned. "Stop it with the interrogation, Mom. I know what you're up to." Christine Grant wanted grandchildren.
"Well, are you?"
"You'll just have to wait and see, won't you, Mom?"
"Yes, I guess I will." She sighed heavily. "Well I just wanted to make sure that you're okay. Your brother sounded worried."
"I'm really okay, Mom. You don't need to worry."
Fitz glanced at his watch. "Mom, I'd love to talk some more, but I have to go or I'm going to be late for an appointment."
"Goodbye, Fitzgerald. I love you. And be nice to your brother."
Fitz laughed. "He'll be fine. I love you too, Mom. Goodbye."
Fitz ended the call and made a mental note to call his brother to let him know that he didn't appreciate his calling their mother and worrying her about nothing. He needed to stop behaving like a six year old, running to their mother when he didn't get his way. Ford was going to have to learn to deal with Fitz on a professional and adult level. Soon.
A few minutes after Fitz ended the call with his mother, Olivia walked into the bedroom.
"I hope I'm not overdressed."
Fitz blinked once. "Oh my…I…I don't," he stuttered, unable to get the words out. He cleared his throat before speaking. "You are beyond perfection."
Any doubts Olivia had about her outfit vanished completely when she saw Fitz's reaction. He stared at her as if she was a stranger. She was stunning in a Carly Cushnie modern, white single breasted tuxedo with a metallic silver stripe down the side of the pant legs and trim on the lapels and collar of the jacket. She'd opted to go bare underneath the perfectly tailored jacket for an edgy touch. On her feet she wore silver, four inch, peep toe platform Choo sandals, to pull the elegant but sexy look together.
She'd washed and blown out her curls, then used a large barrel curling iron to create big waves that hung past her shoulders. Her expertly applied make-up of black smoky winged cat eyes, soft blush and shimmery pink lips accentuated her best features: her eyes, cheeks and mouth.
Walking across the room, he closed the distance between them. He was holding her face in his hands when he noticed she'd replaced the heart shaped diamond studs with diamond hoops. "You're absolutely beautiful, Livvie."
Olivia smiled up at him. She hadn't known what to expect when she'd initiated their first sexual encounter but it wasn't the warmth and ecstasy that had lasted for hours. To say the sex was great was an understatement. She'd given Fitz all of herself, holding nothing back.
"Thank you, but you didn't answer my question. Am I overdressed?"
Fitz smiled. "You're perfect, darling."
"And you're biased, mister."
"You've got that right," he said, kissing the tip of her nose.
Olivia stepped around Fitz, picking up his suit jacket from the bench at the foot of the bed while he fastened his cuff links in the French cuffs. She held the jacket as he pushed his arms into the sleeves of the dark blue garment.
"Turn around, baby, and let me check your tie."
He complied and stared at Olivia while she fussed with the navy-blue silk tie with tiny white squares.
"Are you ready?" he asked.
"I just have to get my clutch."
Wrapping an arm around her waist, Fitz led Olivia out of the bedroom to the hallway where she'd left her bag on the chair near a side table. Hand in hand, they descended the staircase and walked out the front door to the waiting SUV. Pepi, the driver, was standing on the driveway with the rear door open for the couple. "Good evening, Mr. Grant, Miss Pope."
Olivia gave him a warm smile. "Good evening to you, too."
"Hello, Pepi," Fitz said, as he assisted Olivia into the backseat. She got in, sliding over on the leather seat to make room for him. She leaned against his shoulder and sank into the comfort of his warmth when the door closed.
"It's chilly tonight," she whispered.
Fitz kissed her temple. "Do you want Pepi to turn on the heat?"
"No. You're all the heat I need," she replied.
A few minutes later she felt his hand on the inside of her knee, moving upward. "What are you doing?" Fitz's hand had found its way between her thighs.
Fitz laughed. "I'm trying to keep another part of you warm." He whispered in her ear.
"That's never cold."
He laughed again. "I can definitely attest to that."
Twenty-five minutes after they'd gotten into the vehicle, the ride ended on a tree lined street in front of a 1920s styled two-story home in Larchmont. Lights blazed from every window in front of the structure.
Fitz had opened the door and stepped out of the SUV before the driver had a chance. He extended his hand to Olivia to assist her. He'd had her all to himself for the past thirty-six hours and really didn't want to leave their bubble or share her with his friends. They'd cooked together, made love, cooked again and made love again. It was as if they couldn't get enough of each other. Her first cooking lesson had been breakfast, where they made one of her favorites, French toast. She'd taken to cooking like a duck to water, but only after she'd gotten over her initial reluctance. He'd had fun cooking and making love with Olivia as he knew he would.
Olivia barely had time to feel the chill when Fitz, holding her close to his side, shared his body heat and led her up the stairs to the front door. The heavy wooden door opened within seconds of Fitz ringing the bell.
Deacon LaSalle, in a tailored dark gray suit, white shirt and tie the color of eggplant, stood filling the doorway, a warm smile on his face. "Welcome, folks. Come on in and join the others. We're serving cocktails before dinner."
Olivia and Fitz stepped into the spacious foyer. It was open from the front door to back of the house which was a wall of glass. She scanned the small crowd standing and sitting throughout the expansive entryway and exhaled when she realized she wasn't over or underdressed for the gathering. Most of the women were wearing the requisite little black dress and the men wore suits.
Olivia watched as Fitz exchanged a handshake with Deacon before they pulled each other into an embrace. Easing back, and extending his hand, he pulled her to his side. "Livvie, you remember Deacon."
Olivia offered her hand. "Of course I do. It's a pleasure seeing you again, Deacon." Deacon took her hand as he leaned over and kissed her cheek. "It is indeed a pleasure to see you again."
"Thank you," Olivia said.
Deacon winked at Fitz. "Fitz the guys are all here, so go on in. You probably know a lot of the people here, so I'll leave you to introduce your lady," he said before he turned to greet a couple who had walked in behind them.
They walked farther into the home towards the portable bar that had been set up between the foyer and formal living room.
"Fitz do you really know everyone here?" she whispered.
He looked around before answering her question. He'd met most of the LaSalle's guests over the years when they lived in New York and on his visits to L.A. after they had relocated.
"Almost everyone," he said in her ear. "Can I get you something to drink?"
"I'll have white wine."
Fitz kissed her hair. "No red wine, Livvie?"
"No baby, not in this outfit," she responded, smiling up at him.
"Fitz Grant. Get a damn room!"
Fitz turned to find his friends walking towards him smiling. "Mind your business," he joked, shaking his fist in their direction. Placing an arm around Olivia's waist, he pulled her close.
Olivia noticed the three pairs of eyes watching her as Fitz put his arm around her waist. She knew they were probably curious as to who she was.
"Hello, brothers."
She waited and watched as they exchanged rough hugs with Fitz while pounding his back. He then turned to her and pulled her closer to his side.
"Guys, this is Olivia Pope."
One by one, the men introduced themselves. The tall, gorgeous bald black man extended his hand. "I'm Ben McMillan."
Olivia shook his proffered hand. "It's nice to meet you, Ben."
"Juan de la Rosa." Olivia couldn't take her eyes off the gorgeous man with cropped curly hair, smooth olive skin and light brown eyes. He kissed her cheek.
The last man in the group had the most unusual eyes. They were a silvery gray that didn't look at you, but through you. "Paul Solis." Paul held her hand, dropping a kiss on her knuckles. "If I wasn't already married, I would seriously consider stealing you away from Grant."
Fitz forcibly removed Olivia's hand from his friend's, placing it in his own. "I know you're not trying to hit on my woman," he teased with a wide grin. "Where's Leslie anyway?" He looked around the room.
"She's sitting down. The baby's making her more tired the closer she gets to her due date."
"Oh. I'll speak to her later."
"Do that. Now, I have to get her something to drink. It was a pleasure meeting you, Miss Pope. I'll see you two later."
"You as well, Paul, and congratulations on your baby."
"Thank you." He turned and walked away.
"Excuse me, Livvie. I'll be right back."
She stood making small talk with his friends while he went to the bar and ordered their drinks. He'd just returned to the group when he heard his name again.
"Hey, Fitz," came the sultry voice. A petite woman, with a head full of tiny curls that hugged her head like a cap, wearing a black tuxedo jacket and matching pencil skirt, and a pair of Louboutin black patent leather pumps wending her way through the guests. Like Olivia, she was bare underneath the jacket.
Smiling, Fitz reached out and scooped Joie LaSalle off her feet. He kissed her cheek. "Happy Birthday, Joie."
Joie hugged him. "Thank you, Fitz. And thank you for the case of champagne."
Fitz set her on her feet. "Enjoy." Whenever he was invited to a soiree he usually ordered a case of champagne or their favorite wine and had it delivered to host or hostess's home.
"Did you bring a date because seating is arranged by couples?"
Olivia tried to keep from smiling. Fitz's friend asking him if he'd come with a date spoke volumes. They knew that he wasn't currently involved with anyone. And apparently Deacon hadn't shared with his wife that Fitz was with a woman when they dined in his restaurant.
"Joie, this is Olivia Pope. Livvie, this is Joie LaSalle, birthday lady, gracious host, friend and wife of Deacon."
Joie smiled at the beautiful woman with Fitzgerald Grant. "Nice meeting you, Olivia." She grabbed her hand and attempted to walk away. "Come with me, girlfriend. Let me introduce you to the ladies." When Olivia didn't move, Joie turned to Fitz. "Let her go, Fitz," she said when he continued to hold on to Olivia's hand. "Don't worry. We're not going to kidnap her."
Olivia laughed before kissing his cheek. "Don't worry, baby. I'm not going to run away."
Deacon walked up to the group just as the ladies walked off toward the back of the house. "She's really beautiful, Fitz."
Fitz turned to Deacon. "Thanks, Deac."
"Yeah, Fitz. She's gorgeous. How in the hell did she end up with you?" They all laughed at Ben's question.
"Where'd you meet her?" Juan asked.
He took a sip of scotch before answering. "I met her last summer at Harrison Wright's wedding. She's his cousin."
There was a collective groan. Fitz laughed.
"She's related to Harry Wright? Figures. All of the beautiful women love Harry and he loves them. I still can't believe he got married." This from Juan, who had dated some of the same women as Harrison over the years.
"Well I don't think I'd be able to handle dating a model. I really don't like other men gawking at my woman," Juan said, in slightly accented English.
Fitz took another sip. "She's not a model."
"What is she?" They all asked in unison.
Throwing back his head, Fitz laughed when he saw the expectant looks on his friend's faces.
"Come on guys she five foot four, she's definitely not a model." A full beat passed. "She's a lawyer."
Groaning and shaking his head, Deacon closed his eyes. "Why do I have a house full of lawyers? Joie and I need new friends." They all laughed.
X
Olivia followed Joie LaSalle through the house stopping as she introduced her to some of her guests. She attempted to commit some of their names and faces to memory, then gave up all together.
They walked into a small sitting room off the kitchen where three women were seated talking quietly to each other. They stopped and stared at her. She noticed all were wearing wedding rings and wondered if Fitz was the only one among the group who was still single. "I suppose you're a little curious about me," Olivia stated.
One of the ladies tossed her long braids over her shoulder before speaking. "I'm more than curious, but before we begin our inquisition, I think it's only polite that we introduce ourselves first. Have a seat." Olivia moved to sit on the couch, while Joie sat on the arm the chair occupied by a very pregnant woman. This must be Paul's wife, she thought. "I'm Angela and I'm married to Ben. We live in San Francisco but we couldn't miss our girl's thirtieth birthday." She looked at Joie and smiled.
"And I'm Leslie Solis," the pregnant blonde said. "I'm married to Paul. The bald one with the silver eyes." They all laughed. "We're here from Denver. I love this one," she patted Joie's leg, "enough to travel in my last trimester."
The attractive brunette sitting next to Olivia spoke next. "I'm Michelle Wallace, but everybody calls me Micky. I'm married to Thomas and we live in New York."
"I don't think I met him."
"That's because he's been harassing the DJ all evening. He thinks he's Questlove. You should see our basement." She rolled her eyes and the ladies laughed again. "Now tell us how you met Fitz?"
"Hold up, Micky, let me introduce myself before you get into the woman's business." Olivia looked up to see a tall, thin woman with a light brown complexion and a head full of reddish brown locs walk into the room.
"Sorry about that, Indi," Micky said.
"I'm Indira Ogletree and I'm engaged to Juan. We live in New York." She sat on the love seat next to Angela.
"Before we begin interrogating Fitz's girlfriend, can we please get our drinks refilled?" Angela asked.
Olivia smiled at Angela's remark. Everybody assumed Fitz was her boyfriend.
Joie stood and motioned for a passing waiter. "You guys start without me. I need to check on my other guests." She smiled and winked at Olivia before walking away.
Olivia raised her glass of wine along with the other four women as they toasted friendships, old and new, and their girl's birthday. She took a sip, wondering if they would be so welcoming if they knew she wasn't Fitz's girlfriend, but his lover. Were they being nice because of her association with Fitz, and how many of his past dates had they also welcomed.
She placed her glass on the table and looked at each woman before she spoke. "So what do you want to know about me?" She knew she had caught them off guard when she asked the question.
Indira went first. "How long have you known Fitz?"
"Six months."
She wasn't about to tell them that she'd been engaged to someone else when she'd met him and that they hadn't spoken to one another since then.
"How did you meet?" Leslie asked.
"At my cousin's wedding."
Leslie narrowed her eyes. "Is your cousin Harrison Wright?"
Olivia was reaching for her glass and her hand stopped midair. "Yes he is. Do you know him?"
All of the ladies laughed. "Who doesn't know Harry," Leslie answered.
"So you're from D.C.?" This was Indira.
"Yes. Born and raised. Most of my family still lives there."
Angela popped a tomato and basil crostini into her mouth. "What do you do when you're not hanging out with your gorgeous and sexy boyfriend?" The ladies laughed, giving each other knowing looks.
Olivia laughed along with them. "I'm a lawyer. Right now I'm in L.A. working on a case."
"I knew I liked you," Indira said. She pointed at Angela. "We're lawyers too."
Just as Olivia was about to comment, an incredibly beautiful, tall, full-figured woman with close-cropped, platinum bleached hair walked into the room, seemingly out of breath. She sat in the other empty chair. "Sorry I'm late. Sitter problems." They exchanged pleasantries before all eyes went back to Olivia.
"I'm Anais Higgins and I'm married to Frank. We live here in L.A. The guys were just talking about Fitz's beautiful girlfriend and I couldn't wait to meet you." She slowed down to take a breath. "I must say, girlfriend, you are stun-ning!" She drew out the last word in two syllables. The entire room erupted into laughter, drawing a few gazes from the other guests.
Micky turned to Olivia. "The six of us usually get together for a girl's week or weekend, whichever we need, at least once a year." Make sure you give me your number before you leave." Olivia appreciated that they were already including her in their circle, but she didn't have the heart to tell them that she would be leaving in two months and that she didn't know what the future held for her and Fitz.
"I'd like that," was what she said instead. There was something about these women Olivia liked. It was apparent they were close friends and had welcomed her into their circle.
"How do you ladies know Fitz?" It was her turn to ask questions.
Angela answered. "Fitz, Ben, Paul, Thomas and Juan met as freshmen at MIT, and Deacon and Frank met him at Grant Holdings. They weren't members of any fraternity at that time so they formed their own circle and refused to let anyone else in. Obviously that changed over the years."
Micky added. "Our men are close so we had no choice but to be friends. Fortunately we all love each other and we get along. We have our moments, but in the end friendship always wins out." They all nodded in agreement.
"Are you and Fitz serious?" Anais asked.
"Why would you ask me that?" Olivia hoped she didn't sound defensive.
Anais glanced at the others in the room, which now included Joie. "Because it has been over a since we've seen Fitz with a woman. Before that, he had dated Jillian and when they broke up, he had a different woman on his arm whenever we saw him. Every time we got together, he'd introduce us to a different woman. After a while, it was impossible to remember all their names."
Leslie frowned. "Olivia doesn't need to hear you talk about her boyfriend's past."
"How do you know that she hasn't already heard it?" Anais responded, her voice rising.
"Leslie's right," Joie said. "I'm sure Frank hasn't given you a play-byplay of all of the women he's slept with."
Olivia held up her hands. "Ladies, please stop. Fitz and I don't have any secrets between us," she lied smoothly. "I know that if I hadn't agreed to be his date tonight, he would've come alone."
"Which makes you very, very special," Joie stated.
Olivia breathed a sigh of relief when the wait staff started directing guests to their tables. Fitz approached her as she walked out of the sitting room. She touched his face as he looked down at her. He was gorgeous. She'd tried much too hard to tell herself that she was totally immune to him, but that was a lie. And Olivia knew she had to stop lying to herself and face reality. She wanted Fitz, all of him, for the short time they would have together.
He took her hand and escorted her to their table, where his friends were sitting. They stopped so he could introduce her to Thomas Wallace and Frank Higgins.
After they were seated he leaned over and asked, "Everything okay?"
She glanced up at him before answering. "Everything's great."
"Did the ladies try to get into your business?"
Olivia cleared her throat. "The only thing I'm going to say is they were very curious about us dating, especially since they haven't seen you with a woman in over a year."
She looked at him. "Why?"
"Well my career makes it hard to maintain a relationship. I travel a lot. But that's about to change. Also, I just got tired of the serial dating, and I've been looking for something long and lasting." He looked at Olivia before continuing. "The last relationship I was in lasted two years and nothing came of it except we'd enjoyed each other's company. Now I want a woman for more than company."
Olivia was spared from having to respond when all conversation ceased. Deacon stood in front of the room and cleared his throat in order to get everyone's attention. She smiled when Fitz reached for her hand under the table as they listened to their host praise his wife.
When he finished, the wait staff begin to serve the food. The alcohol flowed, the conversations were lively and after the cake was rolled in and toasts were made, the DJ took over, spinning old and new tunes. Fitz proved to be a good dance partner.
"Where did you learn to dance?" Olivia asked.
"I had dance classes at the fancy private schools I attended and my friends have made sure I didn't embarrass myself, or them, over the years by showing me the latest dance moves."
"You were a good student."
"Well I leaned early that if you can't dance, you can't get laid."
"We'll see about that, Mr. Grant."
They both laughed.
X
The celebrating continued until the early morning. It was two in the morning when Fitz and Olivia said their goodbyes and climbed back into the SUV for the ride home. Olivia settled back, closed her eyes and rested against Fitz.
"I like your friends," she said softly. She had enjoyed interacting with Fitz's friends, finding them friendly and unpretentious but she could've done without the lawyer jokes.
Lowering his head, Fitz pressed a kiss along the column of her neck. "I like them, too, but I like you a lot more."
If he thought she was perfect, then she thought he was amazing, in and out of bed. She'd watched his interaction with his friends and they appeared to be as fond of him as he was of them. He was three G's: gorgeous, generous and gracious.
Fitz put his arms around her and pulled her closer to him. He'd watched her interact with the wives and fiancée of his friends. They seemed to have bonded. He didn't know what they were talking about but had smiled to himself when he saw them burst into laughter on several occasions. He felt closer to his friends than his own brother. It was important to him that they get along with the woman who held all of his heart.
Pepi drove up the driveway of the house on the hill and exited to open the rear door. Fitz got out and pulled Olivia to her feet. He bid the driver goodnight and took her hand as he led her to the front door. Once inside he turned to Olivia.
She'd removed her shoes and her head was at his chest. "I'm thirsty, Fitz."
Resting his hands at her waist, he said, "Go on upstairs, I'll get your water." Olivia gave him a lopsided smile. "Thank you." She leaned in to kiss his chin. He turned her in the direction of the staircase. She knew she hadn't eaten enough and had drunk too much wine when she had to hold onto to banister as she climbed the stairs in her bare feet. Stepping off the top stair, she walked slowly along the hallway and into the master bedroom.
Fitz stood watching Olivia until she disappeared. He turned and went to the kitchen to get her water. Pouring a glass for himself, he sat at the island thinking about the woman upstairs. He'd felt a measure of pride when his friends spoke of her beauty and intelligence. The women were even bold enough to tell him that she was a refreshing change from his "different month, different date" phase.
Fitz finished his water and placed his glass in the sink. Grabbing a glass and bottle of water, he activated the alarm and turned off the lights. Picking up Olivia's sexy heels, he climbed the staircase, following the scent of her perfume to his bedroom.
Placing her shoes on the floor near the closet, and the water on the night table, he kicked off his own shoes. She'd dimmed the lamps. Undressing, he placed his clothes on the bench at the foot of the bed. Wearing only his boxer briefs, he made his way to the bathroom. Olivia reclined in the Jacuzzi with bubbles up to her neck. She gave him a sexy smile.
"Hey, you," she said softly.
Leaning against the door frame, Fitz returned her smile. "Hey, yourself, beautiful. Would you like some company?"
"I don't mind if you don't mind smelling like me, again."
Pushing away from the door, Fitz approached the tub. "It will take more than smelling like a girl to make me feel less than a man," he said confidently.
Olivia had pinned her hair in messy bun but a few strands had escaped and were curling around her face.
"Bragging?"
"No. Fact."
Bending, he removed his briefs and stepped into the warm water. Her breathing stopped, her gaze lingered on his semi-erect sex hanging between Fitz's muscled thighs. The same sex that had brought her hours of pleasure. The wine hadn't dulled her senses so much she didn't know that he was giving her an up close and personal view of his magnificent body. He stepped into the warm water behind her.
"Scoot forward, Livvie." Olivia inched forward to make room for Fitz.
Continuing their conversation, Olivia asked Fitz a question. "I take it you like being a man?"
"Very much. How about you, do you like being a woman?"
"I love being a woman."
He whispered in her ear. "And what a magnificent woman you are, Olivia Pope."
"She looked up at him. "Thank you."
"Don't thank me. The thanks go to your parents and their superior gene pool."
His hands moved from her shoulders to cup her breasts as his thumbs tweaked her nipples.
"Can we please not mention my parents, especially when you're doing that."
Olivia picked up a bath sponge and handed it to him. "Do you mind washing my back?"
She sat up presenting him with her back. His erection brushed the small of her back, the sensation making him harder. He tried concentrating on the task of rubbing the sponge over her flawless honey brown skin, but his body refused to follow his brain. Around and around, up and down, he counted each time he touched her and after a while he lost count as the sponge moved lower down the curve of her spine to the roundness of her backside. She took a quick breath. He dropped the sponge and his fingers began to massage her cheeks.
Olivia leaned away from Fitz before turning around to face him and going on her knees. She was overcome with a boldness that she'd only displayed once before, that morning when she'd pleasured him with her mouth.
She explored Fitz's body. Taking his face in her hands, she kissed him. Pulling away, he took her face and gave her a kiss that was so explosive it sucked the air from her lungs, leaving her struggling for breath.
Putting her arms around his neck, Olivia pressed her breasts to his chest in an attempt to get even closer. She was on fire and the area between her thighs was throbbing. Her hips began to grind over his groin, letting him know that she was ready.
"Fitz," she whispered.
"I feel you, Livvie."
Fitz released her head and moved her to straddle his thighs. Grasping his long, hard sex, he eased himself into her moist, tight flesh.
She threw her head back and he leaned down to kiss the base of her throat. She rode him, up and down, round and round. Then without warning he felt it. There was a tightening indicating he was about to come when he wanted it last much, much longer.
"Fitz!" Olivia called his name. "Please stop!" She started to panic. They'd been so caught up that neither had thought about a condom. "I don't want a baby, Fitz. Not now. Please!"
Something in her voice finally penetrated Fitz's brain. He pulled out. He held his sex tightly, trying to stop the flow of semen. He couldn't believe he'd been so irresponsible. He placed Olivia's head on his shoulder.
"I'm sorry, baby," he apologized over and over. "Will you forgive me?"
Olivia nodded grateful he'd pulled out in time. She placed a finger on his mouth. "Yes, I forgive you." She whispered in his ear. "Remind me not to accept an invitation to take a bath with you again."
He kissed her finger. "I promise it won't happen again."
"We have to be careful not to get caught up in the moment." She was kicking herself for having had her IUD removed after she and her ex broke up. It had made their sex life more spontaneous, but after the break-up she felt she no longer needed it. She was wrong.
Fitz smiled, but the smile didn't reach his eyes. He needed to get out the Jacuzzi or he would be tempted to take her again without protection.
He turned off the Jacuzzi and stood, pulling Olivia up with him. Stepping out of the tub, he picked her up and walked out of the bathroom. He placed her damp body on the bed, and hovered over her. Starting with her forehead, he kissed his way down every inch of her body.
Olivia pulled her lip between her teeth to keep from screaming. She arched her back off the mattress from the pleasure of Fitz's tongue and teeth. She screamed when the tip of his tongue made tiny circles around her clitoris.
"Please," she pleaded shamelessly, over and over.
Stopping, Fitz opened the drawer to the bedside table, took out a condom and slipped it on. Spreading her legs wider with his knee, he reached for Olivia's hand and placed it on his sex. Together they eased it into her core, both groaning in unison.
Fitz's hardness slid in and out of Olivia's body. He quickened his thrusts and she followed his pace.
"Harder, baby. Deeper! That's it."
He felt her go completely still for several seconds before throwing back her bead. She screamed his name, followed by moans of ecstasy. Gasping, Fitz collapsed on her body. The sound of his heavy breathing echoed in the room. After what seemed like an eternity when it was only seconds, he rolled over, bringing Olivia with him. Her head rested between his neck and shoulder. He wasn't ready to pull out because he liked the way it felt when their bodies were joined. "Are you okay?"
Olivia moaned.
"Is that a yes or a no?"
"That is definitely a yes," she answered drowsily. She and Miss Olivia were worn out.
He rolled her over on her side next to him and stood. "I'll be back as soon as I get rid of the condom." She was drifting off to sleep when Fitz returned and climbed into bed behind her. They spooned together until falling into a dreamless sleep.
X
Olivia woke at dawn to find Fitz on his back, snoring softly. She slipped out of bed without waking him and went to the guest bathroom to complete her morning ablution and shower.
Dressed in a pair of leggings, Fitz's well worn MIT sweatshirt, that came mid-thigh, and socks, she went downstairs to the kitchen. She was on her second glass of water, and reading texts and emails on her phone while waiting for her tea to steep and for the coffeemaker to finish the brewing cycle.
"Good morning, Livvie."
Spinning around on the tall stool at the island, she smiled at Fitz standing at the entrance to the kitchen in his bare feet, a pair of jeans and a New York Giants jersey. His hair was still damp from his shower. She hadn't heard him coming down the stairs.
"Good morning, baby."
He walked over and kissed her forehead.
"What are you doing up so early?"
Olivia snuggled closer to him. "I had to get something to drink. My mouth is dry because I ate lot of different crostinis and cheeses and the salt led me to drink more wine than usual.
Wrapping his arms around her shoulders he moved to stand between her legs and rested his chin on top of her head. "How many glasses did you have?"
"I stopped counting after the second glass. I suppose that's why I was slow reacting when we got caught up in the moment."
Fitz's mood changed when she mentioned their coupling in the Jacuzzi. He'd never had sex without using a condom, but Olivia made him lose control. He was going to have to get it together. She had trusted him to protect her and what he'd done was wrong and careless. He would do better.
"I hope I pulled out in time."
Olivia said a silent prayer that he had, because they'd picked the wrong time of the month to have unprotected sex. "I think I'm all right," she said with more confidence than she actually felt.
"He gave her a long, penetrating look. "Do you want children?"
"Perhaps one day but definitely not now," she answered.
"So if by some small chance you are pregnant, you wouldn't have it? You'd abort my baby?"
"Come on, Fitz. Don't be so melodramatic. Of course I would keep it."
He nodded. "Will you tell me if you're not all right?" he asked.
She looked up at him. "Of course," she answered. "I'll let you know."
"Thank you," he responded.
Olivia nodded before picking up her mug of tea and taking a long sip. Fitz watched her intently before releasing her and walking over to the coffeemaker and filling a mug with steaming black coffee. They sipped in silence, both in their own thoughts until Fitz lightened the mood. He clapped his hands loudly snapping her out of her thoughts and getting her attention. "Okay, Livvie. What are we making for breakfast?"
She laughed at his antics, glad to think about something besides the obvious elephant in the room. She pretended to ponder his question before answering.
"Eggs Benedict!"
"Perfect!" he exclaimed.
Opening a drawer he removed an apron and closed it. He walked around the island and lifted her from the stool and into his arms. Holding her close to his body he whispered, "I think we can make that happen, sweet baby." He kissed her nose before setting her on her feet. He put the apron around her neck and turned her around so he could tie it, before sending her on another hunt for ingredients. Yes, he thought, this was definitely the distraction they both needed.
X
Sunday afternoon
Fitz couldn't remember a more relaxing Sunday. They were lying on the living room couch watching a football game. Well, one of them was watching the game; Olivia was curled up on top of him, sleeping soundly. This was why his mother was constantly after him to settle down. This was contentment.
Together they'd made eggs Benedict for breakfast. He was a patient teacher and she was a willing and eager student. He'd only have to demonstrate something once and she was able to replicate it. They'd cleared away breakfast and he'd shown her how to marinate a chicken, which they were roasting for dinner. That was a bit more difficult, and she'd made mistakes, but he'd been there to walk her through the process. They'd finished with a few minutes to spare before game time and moved to the living room and settled on the couch.
His mind wandered to their earlier conversation. He'd seen the fear in Olivia's eyes. He had slipped up. He hadn't meant for it to happen and now she could be pregnant. One part of Fitz wanted her to be, because it meant they would have a lifelong connection, but he knew Olivia would never agree to marry him just because she was carrying his child. He smiled despite himself. What if they had made a baby? It would be beautiful, that was for sure. And for Fitz, there was never a question of him taking care of his responsibility. But he was getting ahead of himself. They didn't even know if she was pregnant.
He'd never given marriage any thought because he was too busy living his life. He'd spent his time chasing his own interests and for the most part, keeping his relationships free and easy. But as he looked at the woman in his arms, he now understood what his friends had said they'd felt when they met their respective wives and fiancée. Whenever he saw them all together he knew they shared a special bond. Soul mates.
He tried to return his attention to the game, but the warmth of Olivia's body and the smell of her signature fragrance that drifted up to his nostrils made it difficult to concentrate on a bunch of men slamming into each on a football field. His thoughts were elsewhere.
Even in her sleep, Olivia could seduce him. She moved against him and he wondered how long it would be before they were upstairs, in his bed.
As if she was reading his mind, Olivia woke up with a soft little sigh and shifted her body over his in a long, sensual stretch.
"Who's winning," she murmured.
Fitz ran his hands up and down her body, grabbing her round backside before he slid them under his sweatshirt to caress her back.
"I am," he answered.
X
They were both laughing as they undressed each other in the bedroom. They'd started kissing on the couch and one thing led to another. In their haste to get upstairs, Olivia had knocked over a bowl of popcorn. She'd stepped on a few kernels and yelped in mock pain. Fitz had put an end to it by throwing her over his shoulder and carrying her upstairs, which made her dissolve into giggles.
Their laughter faded as their clothes disappeared, piece by piece. Olivia was on her knees between his thighs while he sat on the side of the bed. She put her hands under his jersey and rubbed his chest while he pulled it over his head. She continued to move her hands in circles, playing with his nipples.
"You are a gorgeous man, Fitz Grant," she whispered seductively.
"Stop it before you give me another swollen head."
She didn't miss the double entendre. Her hands moved up to his shoulders as she leaned forward and kissed him. Fitz deepened the kiss as she slid her fingers into his thick hair and held on.
Fitz removed the sweatshirt from her body, tossing it over his head. She held her breath as he stared at her breasts in the tangerine demi cup bra. Pulling her closer, he ran his tongue down her cleavage as he unfastened the front clasp to reveal them, ripe and ready for his mouth. She gasped with pleasure as his lips and tongue worked their magic on her nipples. He didn't hurry, he took his time and lavished them both, while holding her hips as she began to rock from sensation he was creating between her legs.
She started to moan as Fitz pulled the leggings down her legs along with the lacy thong that matched her bra. Once she was naked, he stood and got rid of his jeans and briefs, revealing his huge sex, ready for her. She crawled across the bed to retrieve a condom from the drawer of the night table. When she crawled back, she put both hands around his cock and held it so he could roll the condom on. When he was ready, they changed places so that he was sitting on the bed. She smiled over her shoulder as he held onto her hips and eased her down onto to his thick sex with deliberate slowness until all of him filled her. They both tensed and gasped.
Olivia flung her head back, her eyes closed as she felt him throb inside her. The new position increased her pleasure. She rode him hard, squeezing him tightly as wave after wave of pleasure washed over her. Fitz held her hips tightly and watched his cock disappear and then reappear with each slide up and down, up and down. The sight aroused him even more and he pumped harder. She felt him stiffen against her. She knew he was close. She deepened her grind, nice and slow. Fitz began to grind his hips up against her, and they slipped right into one sequenced rhythm.
Both began to tremble with that first wave of release but they kept the rhythm. Nice and slow. Easy.
"Oh, Fitz," she sighed in pleasure, letting her eyes drift close.
Fitz felt his body stiffen just before the first climax. His hips jerked up off the bed. He cried out and wrapped his arms around her to grasps her breasts with each hand. That pushed her over the edge and Olivia screamed his name as she felt herself free-falling. Weightless. Moments later she collapsed back against him from the climax that rocked them both.
A few minutes later he moved them to the middle of the bed where they lay in each other's arms. Both of them were sweaty, hot and satisfied. Fitz kissed her again with tenderness and smiled. "Best. Day. Ever."
Olivia couldn't have agreed more.
X
Sunday night
Fitz and Olivia stood in the living room of her apartment wrapped in a tight hug. Their magical weekend had come to an end. For two and a half days she'd lost herself in a world where only she and Fitz existed. She hadn't given one thought to her client or the merger. She wasn't ready, but tomorrow it was back to the real world.
They'd finally gotten up from the bed after making mind blowing love and showered in separate bathrooms. They both knew that a shower together wasn't a good idea if they were going to prepare dinner that day. The rest of the afternoon was spent preparing the chicken to roast and stuffing it, and making gelato for dessert. When they finally sat down to dinner, it was close to six o'clock. Dinner had been easy going and fun, both aware that she would be packing to go home soon.
They were reflective on the ride to Twelve Wilshire, and made the trip in complete silence.
Taking her face in his hands, Fitz looked down at her and forced a smile he didn't feel. It had taken only two nights for him to get used to having her sleep beside him.
"How about dinner tomorrow night, Livvie?"
"I'm sorry, Fitz. I have meetings all day tomorrow. The last one is off site."
"Tuesday?"
She nodded, smiling. "Tuesday it is."
"Seven?"
"Seven is good."
"I'll pick you up here at seven."
He rested his chin on top of her head. "I'm going to miss you."
She leaned back to look at him, and then rolled her eyes. "You'll see me Tuesday, Fitz."
He pulled her close again, hugging her tight. "I'm still going to miss you."
Olivia knew her feelings toward Fitz were deepening and she was becoming more confused every minute they were together. That meant their eventual separation would be even more difficult, at least for her. "I'm going to miss you too," she whispered.
He kissed the side of her neck. Olivia moaned as she closed her eyes. What had happened to the levelheaded woman who'd come to L.A. to manage a merger for a major communications company? What she couldn't understand was why she'd permitted herself to fall under the spell of a man whose touch, kisses and lovemaking disturbed her balance and rekindled a passion she'd thought was impossible.
His mouth moved to her lips where he gave her a kiss that left her feeling weak. What, she wondered, was Fitz doing to her? Was he trying to wear her down? Somehow she found the strength to end the kiss.
"Go home, Fitz."
He gave her a knowing smile as if he knew exactly what he was doing and what she was feeling.
She walked him to the door where he leaned down and kissed her one last time.
"Good night, Livvie."
"Good night, Fitz."
She watched him walked to the elevator knowing that he wouldn't leave until she closed the door and heard the lock engage. Closing the door, she leaned against it, staring at her luggage on the floor. She hadn't allowed him to take it upstairs because he wouldn't have wanted to leave, and she wouldn't have wanted him to. Pushing off the door, she bent and removed her shoes. She could still see Fitz, smell him. His presence lingered as she climbed the stairs and made her way to her bedroom. Their time together never far from her mind.