I completed another chapter and decided to post it. Hope you guys are at least wearing masks and social distancing. Stay safe.
TBOT
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The trio returned to D.C. the week after the 4th, and Fitz and Olivia hit the ground running. They met with their coordinator, Roxanne Jean Pierre, and nailed down a venue. Maya had suggested the National Museum of Women in the Arts for the ceremony and reception, and the couple had fallen in love.
Two weeks later, on a Sunday afternoon, Fitz took Elliott to a Nationals game, and Olivia took Cecily to lunch, but first they stopped by The Loft at 600 F under the guise of touring a possible engagement party venue. She was surprised her sister bought the story since she and Fitz weren't having an engagement party. When they'd walked in, forty women yelled, "Surprise!" bringing her sister to immediate tears. They'd spent three hours eating, drinking and oohing and aahing at the tiny clothes and other gifts Cecily and her baby received. August showed up just as the shower was ending, thanked everyone for all the gifts before loading them into their SUV, and taking his wife home.
The shower was held just in time because a week later Cecily went into labor and after almost fourteen hours, gave birth to August Theodore 'Theo' Lankford III. Whoever said doctors made the worst patients was correct, and Cecily proved to be no exception.
She'd already been in labor almost six hours when Olivia blew in like a whirlwind. They'd waited to call her and she'd left her office immediately.
"Oh. My. God, Libby!" She cried when her sister walked through the door. "Why didn't you tell me it was this bad? I wasn't ready for this."
Olivia empathized with her sister. "I'm sorry, Cis. But you'd better get ready. And besides, you're a doctor. You know how this works."
Cecily rolled her eyes, not liking her sister's response…at all. "I don't recall being this flippant when it was you in this position, moaning and crying."
Olivia ignored her sister's remark because it wasn't true. "What happened to, 'I'm getting an epidural after the first cramp?'"
Cecily shook her head. "I want to go natural."
Olivia looked at August over her sister's head. He nodded.
"Alright, but you know you can change your mind."
"I know."
For the next eight hours Olivia and August took the brunt of labor along with Cecily. No matter what she threw at him, he never wavered. He wiped her brow as Olivia held her hand, whispering encouraging words. Cecily told her that she didn't need her or August to do anything for her other than get the baby out.
When another contraction hit her hard and fast, something snapped inside of her, as if she was possessed by an evil force. Neither August nor Olivia saw it coming. Cecily let loose with a string of obscenities, and her voice was several octaves deeper.
"Don't touch me! Get your hands off me! This is your fault, August! All your fault! You did this to me!"
August wasn't shaken. "I know baby. You're right, it is my fault."
This went on until she began to push.
"Come on, Cis. Hang in there. You can do this." Olivia cheered her on, while August stood holding a leg. He looked at his wife and grinned.
"I can see the top of the head, babe. It has a lot of hair."
"Good for you, August. Just help me get this baby out!" she shrieked at the top of her lungs.
After pushing for forty-five minutes, with Olivia holding one leg and August holding the other, at 11:10 p.m., Cecily delivered a healthy baby boy. Olivia watched as the baby was placed on her sister's chest and the new family bonded, tears flowed unchecked down their faces.
"Congratulations, Cissy. You were amazing."
The little boy was examined, thoroughly cleaned and weighed. He was eight-pounds and three ounces, a nice size for a first baby, the nurse said. He was then held by his parents and aunt for a few minutes before Cecily glanced up at her sister. "Are Mom and Dad still here?"
Olivia nodded. "They're right outside. Do you want me to get them?"
"Please. Thanks Lib."
"No problem." Olivia grabbed her purse before she hugged and kissed August and her sister, and then kissed the baby's forehead, and left the room.
Olivia walked to the small private waiting room where her parents had been moved to during the last hour after waiting in the hospital CEO's office since they'd arrived. They were afforded those privileges by the staff because the Surgeon General's daughter was about to give birth in their hospital. The elder Popes were watching the news when Olivia opened the door. They both stood quickly. Both looked anxious, waiting for the news.
Olivia smiled. "It's a boy!"
"I knew it," Eli said before pulling his wife and daughter into his arms. They stood that way for a few minutes before pulling away, each wiping away their eyes.
"He's eight pounds and three ounces with a head full of hair, and he looks a lot like Cecily."
"How's Cecily?" Maya wanted to know.
"She's fine, Mom." Olivia smiled at her parents conspiratorially. "Don't tell her I said this, but I think that little boy will be an only child."
They all laughed, but knew there was probably some truth behind Olivia's words. They're waiting for you guys," she said as she watched them turn and walk to the door.
Her father stopped. "Aren't you coming?"
She shook her head. "No. I'm exhausted. I'm going home to eat, shower and get some sleep. I'll be back tomorrow with Elle and Fitz."
"Okay." He walked back to her. "Goodnight, baby girl. Get home safe. Text me when you get there. I love you."
"I will. Love you too, Daddy." She hugged him and kissed his cheek before he walked out of the door and in the direction of his oldest daughter's birthing suite.
Olivia left the room and slowly walked to the elevator. Her heart was so full for her sister and her new family and suddenly she couldn't wait to get home to her own little family. She was so overwhelmed with happiness that by the time she made it to her car, she could no longer keep her emotions in check. She finally crashed and began to sob. Tears ran down her face as the sobs racked her body. After a few minutes, she gathered herself, dried her eyes and drove away.
Olivia had called Fitz from the car and he'd been waiting for her when she drove into the garage. He opened her door and helped her out of the car before closing it. Kissing her cheek, he put his arm around her waist and together they walked into the house.
"Aunt Olivia!" He said, smiling down at her.
She shook her head. "Tia."
"Tia?"
"Yes, Tia. When Elle was learning to talk, Cecily insisted she call her, Tante, which is French for 'Aunt.'"
Fitz nodded. Now he knew why his daughter called her aunt, Tante.
"I want my nephew to call me Tia, when he's older. Of course he might have his own name for me." She shrugged.
"Got it." He pulled her close to him. "Are you hungry?"
"I'm starved."
"I made Chicken Piccata and roasted broccoli. Our daughter loved it."
She smiled up at him. "Sounds delicious. I'm going up to shower and when I finish, I'll be ready to eat. Just a little though. Okay?"
"Okay. I'll heat it up and it'll be ready when you come back.
"Thank you, babe." She tilted her chin up and he leaned down and took her lips in a slow kiss. Time ticked by with the only sounds in the room being their soft moans.
Fitz finally broke the kiss and spoke in a raspy tone. "Go shower. There will be more of this later."
She laughed. "I'm too tired to do anything but shower, eat and fall into bed."
Fitz chuckled. "We'll see." He looked down the length of her body and swatted her backside when she turned to leave the kitchen. He watched her walk away before going to the refrigerator and removing the dinner leftovers. He'd have the food waiting when she returned. He smiled to himself; he was happy for the Lankfords and hoped that he and Olivia would be welcoming a new baby sometime next year. Maybe their daughter would finally get her baby brother or sister.
X
The next few weeks were spent planning their wedding and visiting the Lankfords. Olivia had finally found her dress, and it had been ordered. Cecily had been able to accompany her, along with their mother and aunt to a few previous appointments, but this time she couldn't so they sent her pictures to get her opinion. She had many.
Olivia spent as much time with her sister and her nephew as she could. Cecily had done the same when Elliott was born. The little girl had instantly fallen in love when she met her new cousin. She absolutely adored him. He didn't do much, but she was always willing to help with whatever he needed. Every morning she asked if they were visiting her Tante and baby Theo that day, and when was she going to get a baby brother or sister, in that order. Fitz and Olivia usually had an answer to the former, but never the latter.
During this time, Fitz was busy setting up his new firm, FTG Design. His firm would focus on combining design and technology under the GNA umbrella. He had been interested in bringing the physical and digital worlds together to create fully immersive experiences, for some time. And now he was getting his chance.
Senior and JR had been on board from the beginning but that hadn't surprised Fitz. He knew they'd do anything to keep him with the company, even if he was doing his own thing. Most of his time was spent in meeting regarding hiring engineers, graphic and interior designers, architects and project managers. They'd hired a recruiting firm to do most of the work, so Fitz was still able to spend as much time as he wanted with his future wife and their daughter.
The weekend before their trip to New York, the three of them had gone to the Jack and Jill end of summer party at a member's home in Potomac. They'd received congratulations on their engagement and several of the moms gave Olivia approving looks when they were introduced to the tall, good-looking man who would soon be her husband. She watched Fitz interact with the other dads, some he knew from Elliott's school and camp. He stood out among the partygoers, but as always, he was very comfortable. Fitz and the dad's were chatting away like old friends, while Olivia and the moms, some of whom were her sorority sisters, discussed their upcoming fall fundraiser. She wasn't as active as her mother and her sister, but she still bled Crimson and Cream.
On the drive back to D.C., Elliott had fallen asleep, and Olivia and Fitz were both quiet, lost in their own thoughts. Until she broke the silence
"Fitz, am I the first black woman you've ever been with?"
Wondering where that question came from, he answered. "Not by any means. I've never let a woman's race factor into why I wanted date her." Like his cousins, Sumner and Patrick, he dated women who interested him, not because of their race.
"Why didn't you tell me about Nicole and Bebe?"
"I didn't tell you because I needed to know that you loved me and felt safe with me, not just because my cousins are married to black women. I didn't want this to be one of those things where you felt comfortable with me because my family is multiracial. Either you loved me enough to be with just for me, or you didn't."
She leaned over and kissed his cheek. "Well I do love you, Fitzgerald Grant."
He took her hand in his. "Because of my last name and my family's money, I've lived a very privileged life. No different from yours, really. But my cousins and I were expected to marry women with certain pedigrees. That was okay for my parents and their siblings, but my generation has, as the saying goes, flipped the script because we date and marry whoever the hell we want."
Olivia chuckled softly. "You guys have gone rogue."
Fitz gently squeezed her fingers before lifting them to his lips. "It feels good to remove the restraints of the tradition that money must marry money."
There was a period of silence before Fitz spoke again.
"So, I take it you'd never been with a white guy before me?" She shifted in her seat. "No, I hadn't. It was Garrett for years and a few guys while I was in law school and Garrett again. You're it, mister."
"Well I'm an international lover, Livvie." He laughed at the look she gave him.
She swatted at him and said, "I don't know about that. I think I'll need another demonstration to evaluate your abilities." He was right, no matter how many times they made love, he never failed to satisfy.
He looked at her briefly. There wasn't a lot more talking until they got home, bathed Elliott and put her to bed. It was in the shower where Fitz gave Olivia another demonstration. Yes! Fitzgerald Grant did have skills! But then again, she never really doubted him for one minute.
X
The night before they left for New York, Olivia sat on the bench at the foot of the bed watching Fitz pack. She'd finished earlier and they'd put Elliott to bed already. She was ready to confront Ford and put him behind them once and for all. They were getting married in four months and she wanted him completely gone from their lives.
She'd even made Fitz promise that he wouldn't lay a hand on him.
Incredulous, he asked. "You can't be serious?"
"But I am. Promise me."
"Hell no!"
"Shh. Fitz, keep your voice down."
"I'm sorry, Livvie. I don't care if he's my brother, I can't promise you that."
"Please Fitz. We're together, we have a beautiful daughter and we're getting married. I just don't want you to lose your temper and do something you'll regret later."
He walked into the closet and walked out again with a handful of tee shirts. "You let me worry about regrets."
Olivia persisted. "You have to give me your word, Fitz."
"Why? Ford didn't give a crap about me, you or our baby. Why are you so concerned about him now?"
"Fitz, please calm down. I'm in no way concerned about your brother. I just don't trust him. I don't want him to make you angry. What I dread most is putting you at risk. That means no altercation."
Unbothered by his brooding, she continued. "All I want is to look him in the eye and ask him why. I know in his sick mind he thought he was looking out for you but, I want to hear him say it."
Fitz shook from trying to control the anger he'd been harboring for two months. "He had no right to do what he did."
She ignored his comment. "If you don't make me that promise, neither of us will be talking to Ford."
Fitz stopped packing and stared at her. "You and who else is going to stop me?"
"This is not funny, Fitz."
"Do I look amused?"
"You know what your brother is capable of. Can you imagine the trouble he'd put us through if you physically attacked him? The repercussions could be disastrous."
He reached out, pulled her to her feet, and took her face in his hands. "Livvie, you and Elliott are more important to me than anything or anybody, especially my brother." He brought her hand to his lips and kissed her knuckles. "Will you stop worrying? You're right. This trip is about us putting all of this behind us once and for all. To let him know that no matter what he tried to do, we're still together. And just to ease your mind, I promise not to do anything to him in front of you or my parents. Okay?"
Olivia smiled. "Okay. Thank you, baby."
"You're welcome," he reluctantly murmured.
X
Fitz leaned down and kissed Olivia's hair. She looked so peaceful he didn't want to wake her. He gently nudged. Olivia opened her eyes, took a deep breath and exhaled loudly. She stretched her body against her seat and sat up, rubbing her eyes and yawning.
He smiled down at her. "Hey, sleeping beauty! How are you?"
Olivia returned his smile. "I feel great. That was a much needed nap," she said. "How are you?"
"I'm good. Ready to get all of this over with."
She nodded, feeling the same way.
"What time is it? Are we close?"
"Yes," Fitz answered. "That's why I woke you. We should be landing in about twenty minutes."
Olivia looked across the table at their daughter. "Has she been asleep this whole time?"
Fitz smiled at his baby. "Yep, she's probably tired since we woke her early this morning."
"Oh I'm sure. She'll probably be hungry when she wakes up."
Fitz nodded, agreeing with her.
Olivia unbuckled her seatbelt and stood. "I'm going to go and freshen up." She grabbed her tote and walked toward the back of the jet to the lavatory.
They landed at Teterboro and a car was waiting to take them into the city. When Olivia had returned to her seat, Elliott was awake and had a ton of energy to burn. She talked nonstop as Fitz removed her booster seat from the aircraft and secured it on the backseat of the SUV, while a skycap loaded their luggage. A few minutes later they were on their way to the city, and Fitz's apartment.
Fitz had been surprised when Olivia had suggested they stay at the temporary home he'd leased when he returned from Asia. It was sitting empty and the lease wasn't up until the end of the year. And if they wanted to be alone and have sex, his place made since. It had not been hard to convince him. He'd made calls to have the place cleaned from top to bottom and have groceries delivered before they left D.C.
They were having dinner at Sumner's home with Patrick's and Ryan's families, later, and Elliott was staying for a sleepover with Nola. She was so excited she forgot to ask about seeing her grandparents. Fitz and Olivia were having brunch with JR and Christine the next day. They would take Elliott to visit later in the week.
X
Early Tuesday morning
Olivia sat on the balcony outside Fitz's bedroom staring out at the city as it came alive, enjoying her morning tea. She wore his robe and nothing else. They'd returned home from Sumner's and enjoyed one another, thoroughly. Her core was still throbbing from their intense lovemaking. Fitz had definitely branded it as his. He had drifted off to sleep soon after, but try as she might, sleep didn't come as easy to her.
She closed her eyes for several seconds before opening them again. It was six-thirty and they were expected at the Grants at eleven for brunch. She wasn't as nervous as she had been. She was just looking forward to putting this dark chapter in their lives to rest.
They'd settled into Fitz's apartment the previous afternoon. It was beautifully decorated, but not Olivia's style and honestly, not Fitz's either. But it was functional, and would be their home for eight days. Fitz made lunch with his little helper, while Olivia unpacked their things. They had lunch while Elliott chattered incessantly about seeing her cousins, while her parents listened attentively. After lunch, Fitz suggested going for a walk. Olivia begged off but suggested he and Elliott go anyway, and she would stay and clean up the kitchen.
She walked them to the door before returning to kitchen. When she finished she retrieved her phone from her tote and saw that she'd missed a call from her sister. Walking over to the buttery soft leather sofa, she sat down and pulled her legs beneath her, and called her sister. After three rings, Cecily answered.
"Hey, Lib. I just called to make sure you guys made it okay." In the background, Theo cried, sounding pitiful.
"Why's my baby crying? Is he hungry?"
"He's fine. He wants back on the breast and he's going to have to get over it."
"Well that sounds like a hunger cry."
"Please, he nurses until he's full, then he wants to stay latched on like I don't have anything else to do. He'll be sound asleep in a few minutes."
"If you say so, Cis."
"He's going to be a breast man like his daddy."
"You know what? That was way more information than I needed to know."
Cecily laughed and changed the subject. "Gramp and Nan Pope just left. They brought Gem to meet Theo, and we all had lunch."
"Oh yeah? What did the old girl have to say about my nephew?"
Cecily laughed. "That he looks like me, but she hopes he doesn't have my mouth. Can you believe her? The nerve. I asked her where she thought I got it from. As usual, she just cut her eyes at me and sucked her teeth."
Olivia threw back her head and laughed. "I love when the two of you get together. Never a dull moment."
"Yeah. She held my baby the entire visit and sang to him. I love that woman," she said with reverence in her voice. They were both quiet, not wanting to think about the day their Gem wouldn't be with them.
"So what's up with you?" Cecily asked, lightening the mood. "Where are Fitz and patootie?"
"I'm fine. We just had lunch, and Fitz and Elle went for a walk."
"Why didn't you go?"
"I stayed behind to clean the kitchen and to pack Elle's bag for her sleepover. She's so excited. And she can't wait to see Nola's new little brother, Nicholas. Between Theo and Nicholas, Fitz and I will never hear the end of the baby talk."
Cecily chuckled. "Well looks like you and Fitz need to get to work."
Olivia sighed.
"Okay, Lib. What's really going on? Are you still nervous?"
The background was now quiet, the baby asleep as her sister had predicted.
"I am. I mean, I know everything's going to be okay. It just all seemed to happen so fast, you know? Four months ago I was a single mother, a daughter, a sister and a partner in a law firm. My daughter was healthy and thriving, and everything was safe and secure. I was still in love with Fitz and knew that one day I'd have to contact him so the two of them could meet. I never imagined that he would show up, we would talk, get back together and we would be planning our wedding. It was all wishful thinking then, yet here we are."
When Cecily remained quiet, Olivia continued.
"I wasn't expecting any of this, Cis. I thought I had all the answers and I'd done the best I could under the circumstances. But hearing Fitz's side of the story…I never considered the fact that someone was lying to me."
"It's understandable, Lib. You had no reason not to believe his brother. Don't be so hard on yourself. You and Fitz have overcome so much, you have a beautiful and healthy daughter, and I don't think you could love each any more than you already do. And, I'm losing this baby weight so I can look sexy as hell as Matron of Honor. You two will be just fine"
Olivia laughed. "You're so silly."
"Maybe. But I'm also right. Look, you and Fitz just need to get through tomorrow and once it's over, you don't have to think about that bastard again. And by the way, I still want to kick his punk ass."
"Cecily!"
"What? I do. But I know he's not worth it."
"No, he isn't. Anyway, I don't know why I'm so nervous. We did the same thing with Mom and Dad, but I guess this is different because it's Christine and JR's son. I know they're going to be so hurt and disappointed."
"Take it one step at a time, Lib, just one. You and Fitz are doing this together. Remember that."
As if they'd been listening to her conversation, Fitz and Elliott walked through the front door. Elliott's face and shirt were stained red from something she'd eaten. She stood from the sofa.
"Cis my loves just walked in. We'll talk later. Thanks for listening."
"Anytime, you know that. Love you."
"Love you too." She ended the call and went to find out what sugary treat Fitz had given their daughter this time.
X
Dinner that night at Sumner and Nicole's was relaxed. There were eight adults and eight children ranging in ages from one month to seven years. All of the adults sat around a large table in the formal dining room. A smaller table was set up nearby for the kids while ten month old Oliver Grant sat in a highchair between his parents.
When they arrived, Nicole, Abby and Bebe pulled her aside and took turns hugging and kissing her. Bebe grasped her left hand, holding it up. Recessed lighting reflected off the diamonds on Olivia's finger.
"Nice," she exclaimed. "Very nice!"
"The man's got good taste," Nicole said, looking at the ring.
"Thank you ladies. It is gorgeous, isn't it?"
"I'm just glad you said 'yes.'" Abby added.
Olivia gave her a playful nudge and they all laughed.
"It belonged to their grandmother, Ivey. Fitz updated it."
"Oh, so that's the ring Senior's been keeping locked away for Fitz's future wife," Bebe said. "It's incredible, Olivia." She kissed her cheek. "Congratulations."
Everyone offered their good wishes on Fitz and Olivia's engagement. She was hugged and kissed by Patrick, Sumner and Ryan. She stared at the three Grant men. All over six feet, all with piercing blue eyes. There was no mistaking they were related. They were all handsome, with wives who complemented them. She smiled because she still had the best of the Grant men, in her opinion.
Sumner filled the champagne flutes with premium champagne. He and Nicole stood and he put his arm around her waist, and they smiled at one another before he spoke.
"Nicole and I would like to thank everyone for coming to our home for dinner this evening to celebrate our cousin and his beautiful fiancée." He extended his glass, looking directly at Olivia. "Welcome and congratulations."
"I second that," Patrick said, smiling at the couple.
"Hear, hear," Ryan said.
Olivia smiled as the tears welled up in her eyes. "I want to thank everyone for making me feel so welcomed, even before I become a family member."
Everyone took a sip of champagne. Wiping her eyes, Nicole winked at Olivia before she spoke.
"Now that we've officially welcomed another 'Mrs. Grant' to the fold, I think we should join our children and enjoy this delicious meal Chef Gus has prepared."
The dinner was indeed delicious. The champagne flowed and the conversation was lively. By the time dessert was served, Olivia was ready to push herself away from the table and lie down.
Nicole excused herself from the table when Nicholas began to stir in the portable crib in the corner of the dining room. She picked him up and left the room to nurse. The other women excused themselves as well and went to gather their children, and take them upstairs.
Elliott was having a ball with her cousins. The little girl smiled and laughed with her cousins, engaging in their childish antics. Olivia thought back to the first time they'd visited in May when her daughter turned to her, wonder in those big blue green eyes and exclaimed, "Mommy, I didn't know I had so many cousins!" Olivia was happy that her baby was so happy.
Bebe took Noah and PJ into Noah's bedroom, while Olivia and Abby took the girls into two others. They made sure everyone brushed their teeth and had showered and bathed before getting into their pajamas. When they finished, Nicole had set up the pop up tent, where the girls insisted they wanted to sleep, in Nola's room and was rolling out sleeping bags. Olivia helped her before braiding Elliott's hair and showing Nicole how to moisturize and run her fingers through it the next day. They left the children watching a movie in the upstairs playroom and went back downstairs to join their men.
Fitz and his cousins were sitting in the living room drinking whiskey. After the women's drink requests were filled, their conversation continued. They talked about wedding plans, Fitz's new business venture, and Phillip and Diana Grant's end of summer soiree coming up on Sunday, in Westchester.
Olivia wasn't surprised when the conversation shifted to Ford and the upcoming emergency board meeting. She sipped her wine as she listened to Sumner rip Ford a new one. Fitz squeezed her hand and she looked at up at him. He was asking her permission to share what had been done to them. She nodded. He gently stoked her hair as he methodically recanted the events that lead to him not knowing about his daughter, and their reunion. Everyone in the room sat in stunned silence as they listened to Fitz tell the story of Ford's cruelty.
"What the hell?!" Sumner said, outraged.
"Sumner, keep your voice down," Nicole whispered, looking at the monitors on a side table.
"Sorry, sweetheart."
Patrick and Ryan were much slower to respond. They stared at Fitz with looks of shock and fury.
"That lying, blackmailing bastard," Ryan said.
"So not only was he sleeping with employees, he was blackmailing your assistant to get your personal information and used that information to keep the two of you apart," Patrick added.
Fitz and Olivia nodded.
"That mother…"
"Patrick!" Bebe said, cutting him off.
"Sorry, babe." He tried to look contrite. "But legally he has put GNA in a terrible position. She could sue the company."
Olivia nodded in agreement.
"I know, just keep your voice down."
He kissed her before he stood and removed his phone from his pocket. Patrick worked in GNA's legal department. Everyone knew that like Fitz, he wanted nothing to do with running the company because he didn't want to be away from his family. Someone must have answered his call because he began barking out orders as he left the room.
"I always knew that Ford was a self-serving, back-stabbing bastard, but I thought that he loved the company enough to never do anything to jeopardize our reputation or risk his career. He worked hard to become CEO and now he's ruined it all." Sumner shook his head.
The conversation continued until Patrick returned to the room still talking on the phone. He motioned to Ryan, and they both left the room.
Fitz and Sumner looked at each before standing and excusing themselves to join the others in the council of war.
Olivia looked after and then turned to the other women. "Wow. What was that about?"
Bebe took a sip of wine and spoke. "Girl, they're putting together a plan of action for the board meeting. Things changed when Fitz told us the truth about what really happened between the two of you. I'm sorry that happened to you guys, by the way."
The other women agreed.
"None of them are overly fond of Ford, but he's a savvy CEO whose leadership has been excellent. Profits are through the roof." Abby added. "But this behavior and his relationships with the other women can't be overlooked. The company's reputation is on the line."
"True." Nicole said.
Bebe laughed. "You know this is Sumner's wheelhouse, Nicole."
"Yep," Abby agreed.
At Olivia's perplexed look Nicole explained. "Fitz may be Senior's favorite but it's Sumner who's most like him. He's a throwback to Fitzgerald Senior, a wannabe gangster. He loves his family and will do anything to protect them. Like Senior, my husband is not a man known for patience or prudence. Sumner learned to dispense his brand of justice from Senior, and that concerns me. Ford's in trouble."
"The Grants are a lively bunch," Olivia said.
Bebe sucked her teeth. "Don't let the dollar signs fool you. You met most of them. Some of them can get really funky at times."
Nicole nodded, because it was true. Her husband's family was most important to him.
They were deep in conversation when the men returned.
"To be continued," Nicole said.
Olivia wanted to hear more about the Grants. She really liked these women. They were all accomplished. Nicole was the only one who currently didn't work outside the home. Bebe, like Olivia and her husband, was a lawyer. She was also Olivia's sorority sister. Nicole had been a super model when she met Sumner, and Abby was a pediatrician in private practice. Intelligent, strong and beautiful described the four women.
"Babe we need to get going. I'm meeting with my team early tomorrow morning," Patrick said, offering his hand to Bebe.
A sound coming from one of the monitors drew everyone's attention. They all turned to see Nicholas on the screen as he began to fuss.
"That's my cue," Nicole said, standing. She walked over to Fitz and Olivia and hugged and kissed them both. "Everything's going to be okay. Elliott will be fine. She can stay as long as she wants."
"Thank you," Olivia said.
"Thanks Nick," Fitz said leaning down to kiss her cheek.
"Goodnight," she said waving as she left the room.
Bebe picked up the other monitor which showed the playroom. As expected all of the kids were asleep. "I think it's time to call it an evening. Pat, come with me to get the boys please."
Fitz, Ryan and Sumner followed them upstairs and moved the girls into the tent. Patrick took Noah to his room while Bebe packed up their boys. Olivia kissed both of her baby's cheeks before Fitz laid her down. She never stirred. They all moved to the stairs where Fitz took ten month old Oliver from his mother's arms and carried him downstairs.
Abby hugged Olivia. "You know Elle is always welcomed to come and stay with us. The girls adore her." Olivia knew from the look Abby gave her, she didn't say what she was really thinking. They would talk later.
"Thanks, Abby. She's already planned to spend at least one night with both sets of her twin cousins while we're in New York."
Everyone laughed before saying their goodbyes, with promises to get together the next day.
The driver held the rear door while Fitz assisted Olivia onto the backseat before climbing in behind her. She snuggled close to him and rested her head on his shoulder.
"That went well," she said. "What did you guys discuss?"
"We talked about Fords actions and the consequences he's going to face. We also discussed the fallout from those consequences and Patrick laid out the legal ramifications. There's also the issue of interim CEO. JR could step in as a show of stability until a permanent replacement is found, but I'm not sure he'll want to. Ford was the 'change' CEO. He had a new vision to take GNA in another direction and he succeeded on that front. We need someone who will continue what he started."
Fitz sighed and turned his head to look at the passing scenery. "I knew what he did with employees was serious but I didn't realize how serious until you, and now Patrick, made me aware. By the close of business tomorrow, we should know where we stand with Lauren. We don't know if she's sought legal representation, but we'll find out. She may be able to make a case of discrimination based on sexual harassment. If she chooses to bring charges against Ford, then he'll have to face those consequences. I doubt he'll get any jail time, but his reputation will be in shambles, and I'm okay with that."
She looked up at him. There was a tortured look on his face. Her heart broke. "Fitz I'm so sorry."
He shook his head. "Livvie don't apologize for something you didn't do. This is all on Ford."
She knew he was right, but she still felt a small amount of guilt for her role in this mess.
"Our daughter is one happy little girl!" Fitz said, changing the subject.
Olivia chuckled. "I commend Nicole for hosting a sleepover one month after giving birth. I want to get her a gift before we leave."
"We can do that." He said, squeezing her hand.
"Did you hear Elle ask about a baby sister or baby brother again while I was holding Nicholas?"
Fitz laughed. "I did. I don't think she's going to let that go anytime soon, babe."
Olivia groaned. "I think you're right."
Fitz leaned down and whispered near her ear. "You know we can start working on that tonight."
She sat up abruptly. "Oh no, mister. My dress has been ordered, and I told you I don't want to walk down the aisle with a bump. So please disabuse yourself of that notion right now."
Fitz laughed. "Okay, I won't mention it again. I'm sure you're going to look beautiful in your dress, no matter what size you are."
Olivia looked back at him. "That's why I love you," she grinned.
"I don't think that's the only reason," he whispered right before the building's doorman opened the backdoor.
Fitz stepped out and helped Olivia onto the sidewalk. Taking her hand, he led her across the lobby and to the elevator. She was in his arms as soon as the doors closed. He lifted her into his arms and she wrapped her legs around his waist. They stood with her back against the glass of the elevator, and neither of them broke the kiss until the doors opened to his fifteenth floor apartment. He carried her through the front door and to the bedroom, where they spent a night of erotic pleasure.
X
Olivia and Fitz sat in JR's home office as the elder Grants watched the interview with Lauren McGee and GNA's security team. They all watched on the large screen, in complete silence. As long as she lived, Olivia would never forget the pained expressions on JR's and Christine's faces. The day had taken a downward turn from early that morning and now, after brunch.
Earlier, she'd left the balcony and joined Fitz in bed. He'd awaken just as she walked through the French doors. She removed his robe and crawled into bed, and his arms.
Olivia sighed contentedly. Fitz did too.
"What are you thinking?" he wondered.
An ethereal smile crossed Olivia's face. "How happy I am. Right here, right now with you."
"I'm happy that you're happy. That's all I want for you, for all three of us, a lifetime of happiness." He kissed her bare shoulder. They lay in bed for another hour talking quietly. Their daughter had called to say good morning and they'd talked to her for a few minutes before finally leaving the bed to shower and get ready for brunch with JR and Christine.
X
Brunch was an informal affair. Fitz and Olivia were met at the door, not by Georgia, but by Christine Grant.
"There you two are," she said as she pulled Olivia into her arms for a hug and kiss on the cheek.
Fitz leaned down and kissed his mother before putting an arm around each of them and they walked toward the kitchen.
"I know this brunch is for the four of us but I really miss my ladybug."
Fitz and Olivia laughed at the look on her face as they walked into the sunroom.
"She's just fine. She had time in her schedule this morning for us so we were able to talk to her."
Everyone laughed at Olivia's comment.
She removed her phone from her purse and scrolled to her gallery. "She had her first shaved ice yesterday. It was supposed to be a secret between her and her daddy." She showed Christine the photo she'd taken of Elliott when she and Fitz had returned from their walk. She was wearing evidence of the treat on her face and shirt."
Christine was laughing at the photo of her granddaughter when JR walked into the room.
"Good morning everybody."
Olivia walked over and hugged him. "Good morning, Grampy. How are you?"
He kissed her cheek. "I'm great, Olivia. How are you?"
"I'm well. Busy."
They walked over to Fitz and Christine who were laughing at photos of Elliott covered in strawberry syrup.
"Look JR, our ladybug had her first piragua and it was supposed to be a secret from her mother. Hard to keep it a secret when she's wearing it."
JR looked at the photo of his beloved granddaughter and laughed. "Next time get the flavor that matches her clothes, easier to hide the stains."
Christine swatted at him. "You're incorrigible."
Like his son, JR couldn't say 'no' to Elliott,
Christine handed Olivia her phone and she put it away before leaving the room to wash her hands.
When she returned, all of the food had been brought out and Fitz was standing, waiting to seat her.
The conversation flowed as they talked about wedding plans, FTG Designs and everyone's favorite topic, Elliott Grant. She was spending Friday night with her grandparents. Fitz and Olivia were having dinner with Juan, Indira, Thomas and Michelle.
The doting grandparents were taking the little girl to The Plaza for The Children's Eloise Tea. Sure The Plaza was the competition, but for Elliott they'd deal with it. They were just happy she'd found time in her busy schedule for them. She was sleeping over with Evie and Izzy on Wednesday, and Charlotte and Chloe on Thursday. Her social calendar was full.
Christine took a sip of coffee and turned to Olivia. "Since Elliott's ears are pierced, I have a set of earrings I'd like to give you for her. And once she turns sixteen, she'll inherit the pearls and matching earrings my grandmother gave me for my sixteenth birthday.
Olivia was slightly taken aback. She'd noticed the magnificent strand of South Sea pearls and matching studs, that Christine always wore, the first time she met her.
"I've been saving pieces for the granddaughter I hoped to have one day and now she's here." She smiled at Olivia.
"Elliott's a very lucky little girl," Olivia said, returning Christine's smile.
"After we're finished, we'll go through the jewelry and you can pick out what else you might want for my ladybug."
JR cleared his throat. "I hope you save some for Ford. He may marry one day and have a daughter."
Christine shook her head. "We both know that's not happening anytime soon."
Olivia and Fitz glanced at one another, knowing what was coming.
X
Olivia stared at the emerald-cut ruby ring surrounded by flawless halo blue diamonds, set in twenty-four carat gold, on her right hand. Christine had insisted she wear it because the red stone matched her skin tone and it was close to garnet, Olivia's birthstone.
"I can't take this Christine."
"You can and you will. That ring belonged to my mother but she never wore it because it made her pale skin look washed out."
"It's beautiful."
Christine smiled. "I agree." She turned back to the box and handed Olivia a pair of diamond and emerald earrings, set in platinum, for Elliott. According to the appraisal certificate, they weighed almost three carats, and they were flawless.
"JR gave these to me when we were dating. Emerald is my birthstone."
Olivia told her the story behind the heart shaped diamond earrings that Elliott was currently wearing.
Christine put a hand to her chest and sighed. "Oh I love that. What a beautiful story. That son of mine."
"I think Elliott and I are good for now," Olivia said when Christine selected a diamond bracelet. "Why don't you wait until she's older when she can really appreciate it? Then she can say her Grammy gave her this ring for her tenth birthday or this necklace for her high school graduation. And who knows, you may have more granddaughters by then."
Christine nodded. "You're right."
Olivia hugged her future mother-in-love. "I'll always remember this day because of this ring."
Christine looked at Olivia, tears filling her eyes. "So will I. I'm just so happy for you two."
Olivia hoped that happiness wasn't short-lived because she wasn't sure what was going to happen after she found out about her other son. She watched Christine lock the box and return it to a wall safe behind a framed Raoul Duffy reproduction,
Arm in arm, they left the room and went in search of the two Fitzgeralds.
"This artwork is extraordinary."
"Thank you darling. It's all catalogued and appraised. After…"
"There you two are."
They both looked up to see Fitz walking towards them.
"Fitzgerald, where's your father?" Christine asked.
"He's in his office. We've been waiting for you two."
"In JR's office? Why?"
Fitz sighed. "I want the two of you see something. Okay?"
Christine looked at Olivia, who nodded.
"Okay."
When they were all seated, Fitz turned to his parents. "Mom, Dad, I don't know how to say this without letting it rip. So here we go." He started the video and then took a seat next to Olivia.
After nearly five minutes, JR looked at Fitz. "Son, what is this?"
"Just keep watching, Dad."
Unable to believe what they were watching and hearing, both Grants looked at Fitz and Olivia and searched their faces for any signs that this was a very bad joke, but neither of their expressions changed. They both sat stunned.
When the video ended, they all sat in silence for a minute or two.
"This can't be true," JR said, shaking his head. "I can't beli…"
He was interrupted by a knock on the door, and when it opened Ford stepped in.
X
"So, what was so important that you needed to see me today, instead of waiting for the board meeting on Thursday?"
There was disdain in his voice. Fitz had become so used to hearing it over the years that he had learned to tune it out over the years, but today was different. He was aware of every aspect of the man standing and staring at the other occupants of the room.
"Mom, Dad, meet the reason I didn't know about my daughter, and you didn't know you had a granddaughter for the first four years of her life. Your son, and my brother."
The surprised and shocked looks on the elder Grants faces was not unexpected.
"What?" His mother asked when she could think clearly.
"It's true." Fitz stood from the chair he'd been sitting in. "Hello, brother," he said trying to contain his rage, "why don't you have a seat."
TBC