A song that inspired this chapter: I Fall In Love Too Easily (Chet Baker version - watch?v=kmhAEe73lGU).

Let me know what you think. xo

He was thinking about so many things. Which school to enroll Teddy. Where to invest time and money in his new company. And also, when to propose to the lady in his life. Since the day he told her, "I love you," Fitz knew he was going to ask Olivia to be his eternal beloved.

But the sneaky bastard known as failure, harassed him constantly. How could he be sure this relationship would last? After the divorce, Fitz received less than pleasant feedback from others, requested and unwanted. Theories of why it didn't work out. Being so in love with the idea of love, that he couldn't wait to find a better spouse. Rushing into marriage. Didn't fight to keep it going. Made the mistake of having a child too soon. There was more finger pointing than listening. Being the recipient of such negativity damaged his soul and it took him longer than he wanted to somewhat heal.

But Liv. His Livvie. The girl who stole his heart over and over. Who else could reign him in when he was in the middle of a storm? Who allowed him to see what others could not? And most importantly, who else loves him when he thought he could never be loved again.

It was a new world.

Everywhere he looked, there were memories. The frame on his desk with their Christmas picture. All of the funny texts. Making sure her favorite foods, detergent, and tea flavors were in stock. Her sleepy self curled in his arms at night. Playing with Gigi in the backyard. Someone who was by his side. She was always on his mind. That's when he realized the pain he experienced and sometimes caused, was nothing compared to all the love he felt when he was with Olivia.

Maybe a trip to the beach? She loved to swim. That would be a perfect time to propose, in a relaxing environment. But who knows...

Fitz invited the guys over for some dinner and tasty beverages. Teddy was spending the night at Gracie's and conveniently, Olivia had been called away to New York City for a few days with new clients. Probably the only time he was glad she was out of town. He could talk freely about this dream of his.

Entertaining was his guilty pleasure; long nights watching the food channels while staying up with an one-year-old brought an interest to learn how to cook well, beyond frozen meals and delivery. It was a perfect creative outlet from the normal grind of briefs and meetings. It did him proud that Teddy had a great appetite.

As the sun began to set, Fitz prepared worked his magic on the grill. On the menu: grilled chicken skewers, asparagus, zucchini, roasted tomatoes, and fresh rolls. Plenty of IPAs.

"Okay, other than wanting to hang out, I need to share something with you," Fitz announced, plopping himself on the patio bench. "I want to propose to Liv."

Harrison and Mike, one of Fitz' closest friends and street neighbor, looked at each other.

"Well, hot damn!"

"About time."

"You think so?"

Both guests replied, "Yeah."

"I knew I wanted to ask her since last year."

Mike scooped vegetables on his plate. "Not surprised. You fall in love quickly."

Befuddled, Fitz sucked his teeth, lifting his middle finger. "Very funny."

Harrison tried to deflect. "Even though you do, this is great for you. Having known you both for a long time—"

"Which I'm still pissed at you for not hooking us up sooner," Fitz interrupted.

Harrison chuckled, rolling his eyes, "As I was saying, I have it on good authority that you two will be perfect together as husband and wife."

"I need to call her father."

"Good luck to you. When is the last time you talked?"

Fitz took a swig of the beer, shaking his head, "Never. We sort of talked before Christmas, but since then, not really. I should find a way."

A few days later, he asked Abby to join him for lunch and a visit to a nearby jeweler. She had a feeling what his agenda was, but she played it cool.

"Do you like this," he pointed to a beautifully crafted ring, with five carats.

"Not for me. But for Liv, maybe a 2- or 3-carat diamond will work."

His ears perked; turning towards her, he asked, "How did you know?"

Abby jabbed Fitz with her elbow. "Why else would you ask your girlfriend's friend to come here?"

"Okay, okay. Didn't want you to mention it to her."

"I'm a blabbermouth but I know when to keep a secret, Fitzgerald."

Carefully, he leaned on the counter, eying each selection. "Yeah. I need to know… do you think I would be a good husband to Olivia?"

Abby calmly answered, "Yes."

"No hesitation?"

"Nope."

Fitz crossed his arms, smiling. "Why?"

"You just click. Even when you're pissed off at each other, you bond so well," Abby said. "I've never seen Liv so much in love with anyone else. You're the one. You're the guy for her. And she's the woman for you."

It was comforting to hear this from one of her dearest confidants. Fitz gave Abby a hug. "Thanks."

Abby mentioned, "Don't doubt yourself, Fitz. You love her. Now, pick a few rings, and sleep on it."

In addition to organizing a smaller firm — F.T. Grant, Attorney at Law — paperwork was finalized to start the Fitzgerald Grant Institute. The process would take about three months, but the vision was coming to life.

A place where children in the area could learn about law and politics, further their education, and work the system to their benefit. Fitz met with local advocates who could teach after-school classes. Ultimately, the Institute would be an organization that would enrich lives, also making a dent into the flawed justice system. It always broke his heart whenever he heard how young people were disenfranchised. He wanted change to occur. He wanted to use his resources and his voice to make it happen.

It would be a long twelve weeks, bit Fitz was ready.

Hiring staff for both the firm and the Institute was meticulous. After creating several ads online, the email notifications for applicants were overwhelming. His instincts were to ask Olivia for help, but he didn't want to burden her, especially with her full plate. So, he asked Liz North, his former partner, to assist.

Every night, Fitz would bring extra work home. A strong espresso in one hand, folders in the other. He was trying to have 8 o'clock deadlines, but the load seemed to pile up. Thankfully, Olivia was understand. If he arrived home by 5:30 or 6, two hours of quality time with Teddy and Gigi would suffice, then he could complete 45 minutes worth of paperwork, before retiring.

In between interviews and confirming plans by the design team, who came to renovate the whole floor, Fitz snuck away to call Olivia's father. Thankfully, his number was still in the phonebook.

This was worse than calling Mellie, because the result of this call would determine his future.

"Hello?"

The deep voice asked, resonating in Fitz's ears.

"Hi, Mr. Pope?"

"Yes?"

"This is Fitz Grant, Olivia's boyfriend."

"Hello, son. How are you doing?"

Taking a seat, he answered, "I'm doing alright. Do you have time to talk?"

"Is Liv okay?"

"She's fine. Everything's fine," Fitz immediately confirmed, after hearing the alarm in Eli's voice. "I wanted to ask you a question."

"Sure. What's on your mind?"

"I want to ask you for your permission to marry your daughter."

"Wow," Eli replied, "Wasn't expecting this."

Fitz's heart dropped. The response didn't sound positive or negative. How could a flat-toned answer shake him in his shoes?

"Is that alright, Mr. Pope?"

"Number one, yes. Number two, you can call me Eli."

"Oh! Oh, okay."

"Don't be alarmed, Fitz. Is it alright if I call you by your nickname?"

"Yes."

"See how easy that was?"

The two chuckled. FItz realized how quickly Eli could switch gears, and become somewhat comical. After the dramatic introduction at Christmastime, it was nice to share a laugh without Olivia present.

"So, when are you going to ask Olivia?"

"I honestly don't know."

Fitz shared with Eli about the new developments in his life.

"I see. Don't rush it. The time will come."

"Thank you."

Eli said, "Thank you for asking, Fitz. It means a lot. How about we meet for lunch soon? We should get to know each other better."

Fitz sighed, relieved, so thankful, that the first step was completed.

"Sounds great."

Fitz walked into the bedroom, after getting Teddy up and ready for school, and stopped in his tracks. He found Olivia in a matching light pink bra and panties set. What a perfect way to see her for the first time in three days. She was wearing a beautiful shade that complemented her skin, with sun rays shining down on her. Looking like a dream, he smiled when he saw the frustrated expression on her face.

"Hey, lady."

"Hi," she replied, very distracted. "Good morning."

"What's wrong?"

"Nothing."

"Oh?"

"Just looking."

Fitz slowly approached, very pleased by the visuals of Olivia.

"You look… extra..."

Narrowing her eyes, Olivia gestured to her frame, looking at the mirror, huffing, "I'm petite. There's nothing extra here, which I don't think I'm enjoying right now."

"Yes, but your legs, and arms, and your beautiful face. And yes, your boobs. They look delicious."

"Fitzgerald." Olivia pretended to be annoyed by saying his name so sternly.

"I'm sorry," he sweetly placed his hands on her hips, turning her around to face him, so he could peck her lips. "But I'm not sorry. It's been several days and I've missed you."

"This is why I keep you around. You always say the right things."

Olivia stood on her toes, kissing Fitz back. He hummed in satisfaction, hands comfortably settled on her ass. As his eyes opened, they began to roam.

"May I?"

Olivia gave Fitz a wonderful view. "You may."

Fitz dropped his head towards her chest, inhaling the sweet scent of her. His tongue swiping over the flesh that spilled over, giving special attention to the fabric covering her nipples. His hands spread over the tender skin.

"Hmm."

"You're liking this? You're glad to have me back home?"

Fitz replied deeply, "You are delicious. Fuck yeah. I could eat you up all day."

Olivia lifted her hand, reaching up to give his hair a quick tug, pulling him back from what he was currently doing — she didn't want him to get carried away because of the time. "I believe it. Remember on my birthday, you ate me out for the longest time."

"How could I forget," Fitz lowly agreed, kissing her neck, with a little bite.

Squeals filled the room as she slipped out of his embrace. Walking into the closet to find something to wear, she mumbled, "I'm shocked I'm not pregnant."

"What?"

Fitz rushed to the closet. With one hand on her hip, Olivia mirrored his surprised expression. "What?"

"Did you hear what you just said?"

"Yeah."

"So…"

Olivia shrugged, unaffected by Fitz's concern. "It's apparent that we have sex… a lot."

"Is that bad?"

"Nope."

"I wear condoms sometimes."

"Mmhmm, and I have my pills all the time, which aren't foolproof. I'm just surprised that given our routine… it hasn't happened. Not going to lie. That will be a fun day. Finding out we're having a baby."

Fitz's eyebrows lifted. Blinking fast, he fumbled for words. "Wait… you want to have a baby with me?"

Olivia slowly smiled, clothes in her hands, sauntering by, giving him one more look of her pink ensemble, before turning on her heel to the bathroom."Ahh. I see."

She called from the other room, "When the time is right, I'm sure it will happen."

Fitz raced over, stopping the door from closing with his foot; he needed to see her eyes, making sure she wasn't pulling his leg.

"Livvie."

"Hi."

"Are you serious?"

Her lips turned upward, grinning like a fool. "Yes."

"Can you help me decide on Teddy?"

"Fitz."

The trio had ventured to the ballpark to watch their beloved Nationals play a fun day game. Sort of matching, Fitz and Teddy wore jerseys of their favorite players, while Olivia wore a red cap, white v-neck shirt, and jeans, with holes in them. It was the most casual she allowed herself to be in public.

"C'mon…" He whined, hiding his face into Olivia's shoulder, knowing he was being incredibly annoying. "This is huge and I've never had anyone with me to make these decisions."

"Okay."

Along with the thousands of fans in attendance, Olivia, Fitz, and Teddy, were enjoying the beautiful spring weather. It appeared to be the worse time to talk about an important decision, but Fitz couldn't stop thinking about it.

"Let's take a selfie."

"Really?"

Olivia pressed on her camera app, "Yeah!"

After several tries and lots of laughing, she got the perfect shot, then posted on her Instagram account.

Hanging out with my boys. Go Nats!

Fitz smiled to himself. This was the life.

As they cheered and watched on the 3rd base line, Fitz's mind wandered back to Teddy and school.

"Fitz," she shook his knee, bringing him back to the present. "What is your gut telling you?" It was what she would tell her clients at every introductory meeting.

He replied, "I want him to go to public school."

"Okay then. There's your answer."

He was still doubting himself, even though it was fairly easy to give Olivia an answer. "What do you think?"

Olivia took Fitz by the hand, pressing her lips on the skin. "I support you in whatever you do. He's your child, honey."

"But you're a part of his world now."

"Moot point."

Fitz twisted his lips, then muttered,"Damn."

"Fitzy, at the end of the day, your heart is going to tell you how to proceed with Teddy. Case closed."

Olivia kissed him, squeezing him as best as she could while sitting in those less-than-comfortable seats, helping him to forget all of this worry that was understandable, but also needed to be dropped.

"Thanks," he said, making sweet eyes at Olivia.

Teddy began to jump up and down in his chair, making silly faces. "You guys! You're missing the game! Let's go, Nats!"

That evening, Fitz decided it was time to ask. He had been procrastinating for weeks, and he was kicking himself for letting this slip through the cracks. But he needed to talk to his son, so no one would be surprised.

"Teddy?"

"Mmhmm?"

"I need to ask you something."

His gorgeous brown-eyed boy, was occupied with his coloring book.

"What's up, Daddy?"

"Do you like school?"

"Yeah. Sure."

"Can you tell me why?"

Teddy set his crayon down. "I like my teacher. I like it when we walk to school. It's great to see you out or Livia or Rachel outside when I'm done."

"Is there anything you don't like?"

"I don't like the uniforms. They're not comfy. My regular clothes are lonely. I feel a little funny since I don't have a, a-." Teddy was drawing a blank, wrinkling his nose in frustration. Usually when he couldn't express himself, he would start to cry. Very bad tantrums. It was a habit he formed back when he was two. At the time, Fitz didn't know how to help, so he'd let him cry, which led to more frustration for both Grants. But over time, they were able to find ways to solve the problem.

Fitz immediately knelt, rubbing Teddy's back, and kindly asked, "What word are you looking for? Describe it for me."

Teddy met his father's eyes, inhaling deeply. Then, he gestured to his hands, cupping them. "The beautiful beads with Jesus and His Cross."

"The Rosary. Good boy."

"Mmhmm."

"Does anyone tease you?"

Fitz was looking into a mirror, seeing Teddy's eyebrows knit in confusion. "No… other than the kids who think it's weird to only have a Dad at home. But I tell them to be quiet and now Livia lives with us now. They should mind their business. But I wasn't rude about it. I pwomise, Daddy!"

"I believe you, son." Fitz kissed his cheek. "Thank you for being honest with me."

"Why are you asking? Is something wrong?"

"I was thinking if maybe you wanted to switch schools."

Crouching over the table, Teddy immediately sat up. "Ooh, like the school John and Braden go to?"

"Yeah. Is that something you want to do?"

Nodding, looking very hopeful, he said, "That would be fun."

Olivia gave him a "told you so" look. He rolled his eyes. Of course, she was accurate. She kept reminding him how easy it would be to make a decision. Fitz overthought and the time worrying, only wasted more time.

The house phone rang, interrupting their moment. When the machine announced the number, Fitz mumbled, "Shit." After he told Olivia whose number it was, she called out, "Teddy! Your mom is calling."

It was easier to not be the middleman, and allow Teddy to pick up the receiver himself. Avoiding any kind of conflict with Mellie was best. Teddy answered and Fitz walked out of the family room. It seemed cowardlt, but he wasn't in the right frame of mind to hear anything about the conversation.

Ten minutes later, Olivia knocked on his office door to inform that Teddy had said goodbye to Mellie.

"Come out, baby. Everything's okay."

Teddy was sitting on the couch, swinging his feet back and forth, since they didn't touch the floor.

"How is she?"

"Mom wants me to visit her for the summer. But I don't want to go there without you, Daddy. I told her and she didn't sound happy about it."

Fitz could feel Olivia's eyes on him, watching his every move.

"Is that so?"

"Yup," he replying, lifting his shoulders innocently. "I don't think my mom doesn't like you."

"What? Doesn't like who," Fitz asked; his voice became gruff.

"Livia. I don't think she does."

"Teddy."

Olivia asked Fitz to wait, and then she added, "Teddy, love, what did your Mom that led you to believe that she doesn't like me?"

"Yeah, I told her that you were here and I heard her do that thing you do when you're disappointed."

"Hmm."

Fitz wasn't approving of this at all; "What?" He squinted, barking out his question. But once again, Olivia raised her hand, to stop him from getting agitated.

"I told her Livia was here and Mom made that sound like this." Teddy sighed deeply. Olivia shook her head while Fitz remained tense.

But then, he realized, how he must have looked. Dropping his shoulders, he took a deep breath; he couldn't be so angry in front of Teddy. Quickly responding negatively to something he couldn't control wasn't always wise. But he needed to be a good example to his son.

"Hey, sport. Listen to me. I'm sorry for being angry just now. I don't know why she did that but that's on her, not on us. Your mom and I will figure out how you can see her this summer. But we want you to be safe and to enjoy yourself on your first summer out of school!"

Teddy grinned at his father; "Thanks, Daddy. You're the best."

They hugged, and then the little Grant returned to his coloring. Olivia gestured for Fitz to follow her into the kitchen.

"I'm sorry," he apologized, rubbing his neck. "I keep on failing."

"Stop. It's still a learning process."

"She shouldn't have said those things to Teddy. That's not fair to you."

Olivia folded some of the dish towels, to counterbalance Fitz's intensity. "Don't be. It's not like you're talking to her behind my back."

Fitz continued, "Uncalled for."

"I'm not worried. If I'm supposed to meet her, then so be it. I'm not afraid. She's not able to judge me accordingly because she doesn't know me."

Fitz stood there speechless, just amazed by the wisdom that came out of Olivia's mouth.

He reached over to kiss her. Hands pressed on her cheeks, not wanting to let her go. When he did release, he kissed her nose.

"That's why you're my Livvie. God, where would I be without you?"

With all of the obligations with work, Fitz was trying his best to make himself available for his family in the evening. That included one weeknight of no electronics, or a social event outside of the city. Lately, his bedtime routine consisted of watching television or some kind of fun, quiet bonding activity with her. Teddy and Gigi were doing so well, being with each other; he loved watching the newest member become a vivacious personality in the house.

It was a Thursday night; Teddy had fallen fast asleep after gymnastics and dinner. Miss Gigi was also down for the count, in the guest room. After a quick shower, Fitz was settled in bed, and began watching a favorite sitcom on his iPad — headphones on, so he wouldn't interrupt Olivia with her reading. By the look of the cover, it appeared to be some a juicy romance novel. She looked so beautiful turning the pages, her lips slightly parted, in her own world.

He was finishing up a second episode, when he felt her hand squeeze his thigh — one of his ticklish spots — and even dangerously getting close to his dick.

"Hey. You got my attention, lady."

"You sleepy?"

Fitz shook his head, "Not yet." He was thinking she was going to suggest another nightime venture, beneath the sheets.

"Rest your eyes," he heard Olivia mumble, "You must be tired. It's been a long week for you."

"You first."

He could feel her judging stare.

"Really? I'm decompressing. You're watching something on Netflix or whatever."

"I am."

They looked at each other, their tired eyes communicating so much.

Fitz kept his eye on Olivia; she placed the book on her new nightstand, then got on her knees to carefully remove his glasses. He watched her reach over him to set the pair down. Kneeling once again at his side, Olivia began to gingerly kiss his forehead, the bridge of his nose. His cheeks.

"What's all this?"

"You've been working hard," she replied, in between the lush kisses.

"And?"

Olivia pulled back to give him a surprised look, replying with sass, "I can't kiss you, honey? Trying to help your exhaustion go away?"

Fitz couldn't help but laugh softly. "Now you're playing games. If I wasn't so tired, I'd pounce and let you have it. Oh, petite one." His ears rose while Olivia pressed her lips on his neck.

She nuzzled his jaw with her nose, eventually straddling him. "Mmhmm, that's fine. We tend to get revitalized when that comes up. My strong, agile Fitzy cat."

"Don't tempt me. You and your words." Fitz palmed her ass.

Olivia wiggled, keeping her balance. "We can take it slow, if you'd like, hard working man. Stretch those long limbs and feast on me."

Fitz thought his eyes would fall out because of how Olivia was blatantly encouraging him. Her coy smile, with dancing eyes. Playing with the ends of her curls. Dragging her toe against his leg.

"Just kidding."

"Which book got these ideas in your head? It is steamy? Did the author craft the story so well, it makes you want to try something? A new position? Time to seduce your boyfriend?"

Olivia pinched him, "What a smartass! And that's none of your concern. Fine, we'll play another day. Just lie down. We've been all over the place. It's nice to just enjoy each other."

He knew she was spot on with her observation, and it was rare that she would be the one to initiate this. So that was a good sign of progress with their communication. They were becoming more mindful of each other. For him, it had been years since someone (who was not Teddy) was lying next to him, and he would be concerned for her well-being. As well as the opposite. Unless he was sick, or vocal about his needs, there was no one looking out for him — until now. Which was awesome.

Fitz moved the iPad and headphones, adding to his nightstand collection. Giving Olivia a tired smile, he said," You are correct."

Slowly leaning back, he rested on her. She began to play with his soft crown of hair. He closed his eyes, letting himself relax while her fingers massaged his scalp, and kissing wherever she felt needed to receive that touch.

Fitz's voice became heavy, attempting to stop himself from yawning. "You do know when you do that..."

"I know," Olivia smirked, digging her nails a little harder. "I know you. What makes you tense and what helps you pass out. I remember these things. Just enjoy it, baby."

It felt like a few seconds, but when his eyes fluttered open, Fitz realized that he went to sleep, and had been out for several hours. But he wasn't in her arms.

His eyes scanned in the darkness that Olivia was lying on her side, but he wanted to be as close to her as possible. Dragging his fingers from her shoulder, down to her arm. He sighed once her body was nestled in front of his. Nothing like a warm spooning.

Her sleepy voice made him smile, reaching back, putting her hand on his stomach. "Hmm? You okay?"

"Yeah," he said, kissing her neck. "Thank you."

It was only a matter of time before he'd ask, and the next phase of their lives together would begin.