Hello, everyone! I usually post something on my birthday, but the last few weeks have been hectic and writing took a backseat. Thanks to everyone who sent kind words. I appreciate them. Thank you for your patience.
Here is my "belated" gift to YOU — a new chapter. I hope you enjoy. Let me know what you think. xo
"I have this feeling he's going to propose."
In the midst of a typical August heatwave in the District, Olivia was tapping her favorite pen on a fresh notepad, as if inspiration would drop at any second, while having little Gigi rest on her lap. Summer mornings at the office were boring; she had the staff come in three days a week, just in case a new client would arrive. Since it was a slow day, it only felt right call the bestie, and spill all of the ideas that were running in her head.
Gabrielle — staying in Miami for the week — exclaimed, "What?! What makes you think this? So what are your reasons, Liv?"
"He's been making so many changes. Work. He's moving Teddy to a new school. He asks me about different things. For example, 'Are there any rooms you want to redecorate? Do you like it here? Do you want to move somewhere else in the city?' For Father's Day, while we were at the beach, he was so calm. I'm shocked because this new job is so chaotic, but he felt content. Oh my gosh, Gab, he got all excited when there was a commercial about Vermont. He actually booked a long weekend in Vermont! Who seriously goes to Vermont? It's not like he's having a midlife crisis! Wait, is he? He's too young."
"Olivia…"
"It's going to be a year in two weeks. A full year in a relationship and not feeling utterly trapped. I want to be with him. There's no grey area for me. This is unheard of in my book."
"But Liv."
"Have I thought about it? Yes. I've been dreaming about babies. So many. Fucking dreams with children. My children. They look like me. Like us. But getting married? Being proposed to? That scares me. The anticipation. I can feel it."
"Pope!"
The stern as halted Olivia's rambling. She had been talking nonstop to her best friend for fifteen minutes, discussing everything under the sun. But she needed to relax. That was her M.O. — planning, analyzing and overthinking, and deciding what to do next — all on her own. That had to change a bit.
"You have every right to think about what your boyfriend is doing and saying. That's the fun part of having one. You can always be aware, but don't let your fear of the unknown hold you back from being pleasantly surprised."
"Has he talked to you," Olivia jokingly interrogated.
A laughing Gabrielle answered, "No, ma'am. Should I be talking to him?"
"Get outta here."
After their laughing fit ended, Gabrielle added, "You've come a long way."
"I have a long way to go."
"Don't underestimate yourself. You are kickass when you represent others. Don't switch gears when it comes to your personal goals. What makes this different?"
"I love him," Olivia sighed. "Not a casual 'oh man, you're great and I appreciate you'. I love him. So much. I don't know where this all came from. This is still so new. It wasn't like this with E. I wasted time. But this was only a silly blind date, that I almost left. What a surprise."
Everyone had seen a difference in her, and her work had not suffered because of this long-term dynamic. Life had definitely made some shocking turn, giving her inspiration and motivation, for her experiences outside of her career. After all the heartaches and fear of having a relationship broken beyond repair, Olivia believed she was ready to do this. A year had passed and she believed she was ready to take the next step with Fitz.
If he wanted to marry her, she'd allow it, because she knew he loved her. No one had demonstrated this kind of love that encourages, devastates, and overcomes anything like Fitz. He had seen the best — her dedication to the people she loved, confidence, and and the worst — her ferocious stubbornness; the desire to run away emotionally when situations weren't ideal. And he was still eager to love on her. She tolerated his downfalls as well, and yet, there was no one else in the world she would do life with.
Olivia Pope truly loved Fitzgerald Grant III.
He was the one, and she was the one for him.
"I know," Gabrielle agreed. "You do love him. I'm glad. You're so happy, Liv, and that's all I want for you. Y'all have my blessing."
"Thanks, girl. If he proposes, will you help me plan the wedding?"
"As long as you don't go bridezilla on me."
Olivia loudly scoffed, making Gigi jump. "What?! I would never."
"Honey, I know you. This is a big deal. You're a leader, and you would want this important time in your life to be perfect."
"And?"
"So?"
There was silence for five seconds, before the ladies burst into another round of giggles. The banter was hilarious; they were known to call each other out playfully, not getting offended by the tactic.
"Is that a yes or no, Gabrielle?"
"Of course."
"Thank you," Olivia replied. She bit her lip as she pushed her chair around, twirling around. The excitement was rising and she couldn't contain it. "Girl, I'm having all these weird feelings. I shouldn't be so pumped about this, but my gosh, I'm flipping out."
Gabrielle chuckled with approval, "Just take it one day at a time."
As soon as her eyes opened, Olivia's arm habitually reached over to touch Fitz. But to her dismay, all her fingers felt were lukewarm sheets. Since she moved in the house, it was the norm for them to be next to each other, with some part of their bodies connected. She racked her brain as to why Fitz wasn't snuggled behind her. It was a given that either she would rise before him, or they'd start their day, in each other's arms for a minute or two. Then, she remembered he had planned a fun day for the two of them.
After taking a shower, Olivia descended to the kitchen, in a T-shirt and leggings, freshly moisturized, and with a messy bun on the top of her head. Fitz was at the island, fully dressed in a crisp polo and jeans, sipping on his strong cup of coffee. As she entered, he turned back. Their eyes met, and immediately they both smiled.
"Good morning."
"Well, hello, beautiful. Good morning."
Olivia sauntered over to him, pretending to be offended, "I got a little concerned that you weren't behind me when I woke up. You know spooning is my fave."
Fitz "hmphed," taking her arm, and bringing to his lap. He kissed her nose, snaking his arms around her waist. "Me sorry. I wanted to get a head start for the day."
"What are you up to, Mister," Olivia asked, with a skeptical, but playful eye. His eyes were dancing and she waited for him to spill the beans. "Fitzgerald..."
"We're getting picked up in an hour and we'll jet off to Rutland."
"Wait," Olivia stopped Fitz. "Jet off? Just us? A private jet?"
"Mmhmm."
"Seriously?"
"Yeah…" Fitz shrugged, acting like he didn't notice Olivia's surprise and intrigue.
"This is how you impress your lady?"
Olivia tried not to squirm as her neck was receiving soft kisses, but his lips felt so soft and comforting, there was no point to act like she wasn't enjoying this.
"I do whatever I can to show you that I love you. Nothing wrong with a little getaway. I told you I want to take you and it's the perfect time."
"You spoil me."
Fitz squeezed Olivia's waist. "I do."
It would just be the two of them. Teddy left the day before — his cousins had taken him to Virginia for a long weekend. Abby volunteered to watch Gigi, just in case she wasn't too thrilled with totally new surroundings. Plenty of time to explore this new location and reconnect on different levels.
The flight was only two hours long, but Olivia decided to catch up on sleep, resting her head on Fitz. She felt incredibly safe, having him right there.
A sweet kiss on the temple, gently woke her.
"Hi."
"Hi."
Fitz lazily drew circles on her knee, as he looked into her eyes, lovingly. "We're here. Are you ready to go, beautiful?"
When she walked down the steps, a black SUV was parked right outside the gate, ready to be driven to their next location, which was only twenty minutes away. As they approached the property, Olivia was in awe of the beautiful landscape. The leaves seemed to be more vibrant, with gorgeous blue skies above their heads. The air smelled different. It was a wonderful departure from the busy atmosphere they were used to.
Fitz pulled up on the gravel driveway, facing a massive rancher, with tall windows.
"Wow."
Olivia could already sense peace when she stepped outside.
"Absolutely gorgeous."
"You like?"
"I do. We are 500 miles away from home, and I don't have a care in the world. This will be kickass."
Holding hands, they walked inside in the house. High ceilings, wood everywhere, beautifully furnished. Olivia couldn't believe what she was seeing. There was a piano, off to the corner.
"Oh my goodness. That looks like the piano I have."
Fitz didn't respond, only watching while Olivia sat on the bench. She spent the next minute, playing scales and basic chords.
"What do you think?"
"This is so nice. We're going to have a great time, Fitzy."
He left to grab their luggage. Olivia visited the other rooms; it would be a lovely weekend together.
"Hey, you get comfortable and I'll make some lunch, if you'd like."
Olivia returned to the living room, asking, "That's cool. Where is the nearest market? I'll go with you."
"Don't worry, I handled it."
The confidence in Fitz's voice made Olivia straighten her back. Placing her hand on her hip, she called, "Fitz."
Strutting to the refrigerator, he opened the door, revealing the appliance to be fully stocked with meats, drinks, fruits and vegetables, even specialty treats she enjoyed.
Olivia leaned forward, reaching for the strawberries. "Well, well, well. Excuse the fuck out of me, Mister!"
Fitz palmed her ass, pressing a kiss on her back. "I told you, I handled it."
Immediately, she froze. His aura was incredibly sexy and she was very impressed. How badass was this kind of move? She always wanted a man who would take care of business without being asked consistently. Even as simple as confirming dinner reservations. Taking initiative — that was a turn on for her.
When he stepped back, she pivoted, shooting her eyes at him, watching him stand tall, pushing his shoulders back, very pleased at his work.
"Mmhmm."
As they dined on burgers, veggies, and a guilty pleasure of seasoned French fries, Olivia and Fitz exchanged flirty expressions. Dragging her toe against his denim-covered leg. Placing her hand over his. They talked about what they'd do for the day, as well as listening to each other's plans for their jobs.
Fitz left the table to wash dishes. As she admired him, she thought of a fun idea. Olivia approached quietly, and slyly placed her hand over his crotch. She heard him audibly gasp.
"Meet me in the bedroom in ten — no, five minutes," she instructed, acting as if she was giving orders to a client.
Fitz slightly turned towards her, with his irises growing large.
"Livvie?"
"I hope you are aware of my urgency."
"Yeah. Uh-huh," he answered, fumbling on his words, sounding like an inexperienced lover.
Olivia lifted her heels, rising to bite his sensitive earlobe, then kissed it, to soothe the stinging red flesh.
"Good."
Leaving him quite shook, got a kick out of Olivia as she disappeared to their bedroom. Stripping down to her black lace bra and panties, she moved to the bed, waiting for him to arrive.
When Fitz walked in, she blew a kiss.
"Olivia?"
"Yes?"
"What are you doing, woman," Fitz toed off his shoes, placing his hands on his hips. "Barely in the house for an hour and you're out of your clothes? I thought we were going to be out and about, then relax today."
Olivia sighed coyly. Moving her hair into a ponytail, she answered, "You know I love it when I have a man who is willing to do things without being asked."
"Oh, yes," Fitz noted, lowering his voice, pulling off his T-shirt.
Olivia stretched her legs, slowly curling her finger, giving Fitz the permission to meet her.
"Yes, ma'am. Where do you want me to go?"
Eyebrow raised, Olivia opened her legs. "Right here, Fitzgerald."
"I'm glad we're on the same page."
Olivia exhaled as Fitz lunged towards her lower half, closed her eyes, relishing in this exquisite action. Fitz's tongue felt amazing on her body, finding all the sweet spots. His thick fingers entering, while he sucked on her clit, lapping her up, she got off in no time. When he lifted his head — hair tousled from Olivia's tugs — after giving her an orgasm, she noticed how wet his mouth was with her essence.
She gave him a lazy smile. His smile was crooked, looking satisfied.
"Do you want to taste yourself?"
Fitz had this unique way of speaking dirty that wasn't offensive or degrading. Olivia found it to be sexy and didn't mind, because when she wanted to play rough, he was a good sport and played along. He got turned on when she was fiery.
"Sure," she smiled. Her eyes followed his tall self reach up to where she was laying, hovering over, breathing deeply. Their tongues connected, sharing a very private moment.
Olivia reached back to slip off her bra.
"Mmm," he approved, reaching for her breasts.
Olivia loved the feeling the calloused pads of his fingers on her skin, which was started to pebble.
"Baby," she sighed, breaking the kiss arching her back. A shock went down her spine as she felt Fitz dip to worship her neck, then lightly bite her nipple. She noticed his attention to her chest. He was doing everything right. Whenever he looked up, her heart would melt. It was more than physical.
Her hands roamed — his chest, his back, feeling the pronounced muscles, holding on to the band of his black boxer briefs.
All of a sudden, Fitz pulled back.
Slamming the mattress, ready to complain, she offered, "Oh no, you can't do that. Where are you going? I'm already turned on, Grant."
He laughed, removing his jeans and underwear, then kissed her, before sitting on the bed, crossing his legs, patting his thighs. "Come sit."
Olivia tilted her head to the side, tentatively. "Oh?"
"Now you want to be shy? Baby, come over here, I want to hold you."
Olivia maneuvered herself, keeping an eye on Fitz's growing erection; it was looking extra thick and long and she wanted everything it had to offer. There was a sneaky hypothesis that ran through her mind that whenever they were away from home, they performed better. More like a fun game in their minds. More room to experiment and play. Once they were situated, and Fitz eased his way into her, their eyes met. Olivia blew out a deep breath, already enjoying how well he filled her.
"Okay?"
"Yeah," she softly answered, touching his semi-scruffy cheek, adjusting herself to his girth. "You're so beautiful. I love you."
Fitz breathed, "I love you."
It was different than usual; this position made them slow down. The summer had a way to lead activities into a frenzied pace to balance their primal urges. But it was cooler here in Vermont, so there was an opportunity to take it easy. Their focus was intentional, connecting their breath, with the constant ebb and flow. Olivia dug her heels into his lower back to maintain her rhythm, so she wouldn't go out of sync. Their hips rolled, as their bodies collided, allowing the mutual energy to fill them.
One of the mighty thrusts nearly threw Olivia off balance.
"Fitz!"
"I got you, Livvie," he encouraged, moving his hands to her lower back, supporting. "You're doing great."
Olivia draped her arms around Fitz's neck, with laughing eyes. "Yes, baby."
His mouth covering hers, taking her to another place. Her breathing wasn't labored. She smiled as another wave went through her core. The friction was everything she wanted. Leaning forward, letting their chests touch, she rested her forehead on his shoulder.
"Damn, you must be turned on," Fitz guessed, lowering his hand to stimulate her clit, and looking down quickly, he added — "you're swollen and pink, I love it."
Olivia chuckled, "You did that, buddy."
"I know."
Watching him stay focused, while receiving pleasure himself, was very intriguing. The hue of his blue dark eyes had darkened. Olivia saw the clues of his arousal; his chest would rise and fall rapidly, seeing how red his ears turned, his grip on her collarbone and neck — his signature moves, was a bit more possessive, which brough her to the edge.
"You're close, aren't you," he gruffly whispered against the shell of her ear.
Biting her lip, she nodded in reply as she continued to ride him.
"Tell me what you need."
It was hard to speak. Olivia's tight jaw loosened, and she closed her eyes.
"Livvie..."
She opened her eyes and found that classic Grant smirk — as he bucked his hips; pressing forward, his cock reaching her tender g-spot.
"Go faster, baby."
"You sure?"
Gripping his chin, she looked him square in the eye and said, "Do me. Now."
Fitz didn't have to be told twice; with a new surge of energy, and of course being safe, he fell back into the bed, with Olivia in his arms, then rolled themselves over, so that he was on top. His thrusts accelerated, lifting Olivia's leg over his right shoulder.
"Fuck, fuck, fuck," she chanted.
His soft grunts, matching Olivia's, didn't stop. She noticed the steady beat of his new necklace hitting his sweaty skin.
They didn't look away from each other until the moment occurred, with Olivia closing her eyes, opening her mouth, letting out a deep moan. Arching her back and holding on to her lover, she rode out her second wave of the day. Fitz finished soon after, letting out a satisfied groan, emptying himself into her, and collapsing. Their breathing leveled, their longing stares transitioned into laughter and appreciation. Being so close physically, never felt better.
A few minutes later, Olivia tapped Fitz's chest, giggling in satisfaction. He reached to the drawer, for a towelette, carefully wiping her skin.
"Aw, thank you. That was good."
When he was finished, Fitz kissed her stomach. "How did I get so lucky?"
Olivia glanced down at him, and couldn't help but play with his loose curls. Just so precious, in this lull of time after making love. It was perfect, in this beautiful house.
They shared another slow and deliberate kiss, before he walked away to clean up.
Her mind wandered off to somewhere else, just being so blissful, thinking of how they were able to get away.
The bathroom door slightly opened, and she came back to the present. Quickly, she rummaged through her suitcase, taking out her robe.
She heard Fitz say, "Take a look outside."
Olivia gasped when she peeked out the window. The extent of land was more than she expected.
"It's thirty acres, baby. Lots of space."
"Fitz," she responded, "Where did you find this place? Airbnb? A broker you know in D.C.?"
His answer was full of mystery. "No."
"Then, where?"
"Would you want to live here? Or visit here again?"
The lightbulb in Olivia's mind turned on; sitting on the foot of the bed, she asked, "Fitzgerald, how about you come to me, and talk. Is there something you need to tell me?"
Fitz reappeared, still naked, dragging his hand through his hair, looking somewhat mischievous.
"Mister..."
"So, you caught me."
"What?"
Fitz turned away, slipping on a pair of black gym shorts. "I have been putting money aside. Since I was a teenager. California is where I grew up, but it's not my home. I enjoy the East. The seasons in the Northeast are so beautiful. I knew I loved it here. And after hearing about what you liked, I began to make plans."
Shocked, Olivia exclaimed, "What?!"
"Crazy, huh?"
"But Fitz..."
Extending his arms, Fitz admitted, "I thought I knew what I wanted in life. Even with Teddy, I had goals just for us. I didn't think anyone else would enter the picture. But now, every time I want to make a decision, I stop. Because I think of you. Would you approve? Would you like it? Is she going to give me a hard time? Where do I want to spend the rest of my life with you? So I had to finally show you this house."
It seemed unreal to hear him talk like this. A house? Was he thinking about their future too?
Olivia softly asked, "Is this your vacation house?"
"Sure."
"How often will you come up here?"
"Whenever you want."
"Whenever I want? What do I have to do with this," she questioned, with furrowed eyebrows.
Fitz sat down next to her, "You're my girl. My lady. You're the love of my life, Livvie. I would love for you to be with me when I come here. You're the reason I bought it. I had it built for you. For us."
Olivia stared at him, hoping to find a tell through his words or body language. But her bottom lip started to quiver; she hated feeling so emotional, so she crossed her arms, as if to guard her heart, but the tears forming gave her stoic dispositon away.
"Fitz. Are you going to propose?"
"Yes."
The wind knocked out of her. Olivia let out a nervous breath, alarmed by the calming tone in his voice, unsure of what would happen next.
Fitz's eyes widened with anxiety as he rushed to her. "Oh my god, Livvie. Take a breath, baby. I didn't mean it like that. I'm going to propose you. But when you're not expecting it."
Olivia squinted, baffled, with her voice cracking. "Seriously?"
"You're a planner, Livvie, and that's great. You're the best at it. But this is kind of out of your control. But when the time is right, I'll know, and you'll know." Fitz softly rubbed his thumbs on her cheeks.
"But that's not what I said."
"But I would like you to stand down. I'm going to take care of it. This will be a surprise you will enjoy. I promise. It will be like this, but even better."
Exhaling, she leaned forward, so their foreheads and their noses could touch. It was becoming their thing.
"What do you think?"
Delaying her response, she gave him a smirk. "Okay."
"Okay," Fitz smiled, pressing his lips onto hers.
One year.
The night before, Olivia reminisced on their first meeting, at the restaurant. How reserved she was, but when she got to know Fitz and Teddy, all of the hesitation melted away. So much had happened since that fateful evening. Even with the uncomfortable emotional growing, Olivia didn't regret this. This is where she needed to be.
Waking up a few minutes before her alarm, Olivia quietly left the house to take a quick run. On her way back, she picked up a favorite pastry for the boys, then took a shower. Fitz must have been on his sneaky tip as well, because he wasn't in bed either when she came upstairs.
Olivia darted to her closet, finding a lightweight blouse and slacks - it would be a humid day in the city. When she emerged, there was a bouquet of roses on her vanity. With a smile, she sat down, and began to do her makeup.
Being very observant and keen with her surroundings, she heard footsteps, Her eyes shifted to the doorway; Fitz was leaning against the door.
With a flirty smile, she greeted him, "Happy anniversary, handsome."
"Same to you. Happy anniversary."
Fitz walked over to the vanity; rubbing her shoulders.
"These are so gorgeous. Thank you, honey. Your gift should be arriving in a few hours."
"I don't need anything, but thank you for breakfast."
Olivia laughed, tilting her head back so they could kiss. "You silly man. Just accept what I have for you."
"What are you going to do today?"
Side eying her boyfriend, she replied, "I got work. Things regular people do. Even when on their anniversary."
"Oh," he responded.
Olivia pursed her lips, as she used her setting spray. "I won't be gone that long. Maybe I'll take the day off tomorrow."
"That sounds good," Fitz said. "What time will you be back?"
"Five? I have a couple of meetings, then Abbs and I are hanging out."
"Alrighty! When you return, we'll celebrate."
With a nod, she stood to face Fitz. Olivia wrapped her arms around his waist, snuggling into his warm body. "You got it, baby."
Three proposals and contracts later, Abby invited Olivia to join her for manis and pedis. The tall redhead opted for a vibrant blue, while Liv chose white for her toes and a soft nude for the mani. Getting pampered, drinking bubbly, was a lovely way to finish the short work day. It was nice to talk about everything except work.
Like she promised, Olivia pulled into the driveway at around dusk, a little baffled. As the summer carried on, the normal scene when she arrived from work — front door open, with a bike, or toys on the front lawn. Teddy and the neighborhood kids were usually running down the street, but they were nowhere to be found.
Unlocking the door, she called, "Fitz? Teddy? Honey?"
Nobody answered.
After loving on Gigi, Olivia went upstairs, ready to change into a tank and shorts. But on her side of the bed, there was a note on top of a shimmery, light gold sleeveless dress. She was delighted at how pretty and form-fitting it was. Her man knew what she liked.
"Liv — found this for you. Try this on and I'll meet you out back."
Olivia snorted at the adorably sloppy heart Fitz drew on the slip of paper.
They hadn't made plans the day; maybe a night out, with a healthy serving of champagne. But knowing Fitz, there must have been an agenda tagged along with all of his surprises.
She spent a few extra minutes to spruce up her makeup, so that her look was more evening appropriate. Finishing in record speed, Olivia was able to loosen her hair to create tresses that emulated beachy waves. Heading downstairs with her heels in tow, Olivia made her way to the back door.
Her face brightened being greeted with roses — her favorite flower — several lit candles placed all over, warming the patio.
Fitz met her in a dark grey suit, crisp white dress shirt, with the top buttons open, revealing tufts of hair.
"Hi."
"Hi."
"I was looking for you."
"Well, I was waiting for you. Welcome home."
Viewing the changed ambiance, Olivia walked up to Fitz, giving each other a kiss. "What's all this?"
"I wanted to celebrate our anniversary in a simple way."
Olivia blushed, "How nice. Thank you for my dress."
Fitz rubbed her arm. "It looks amazing on you. I knew it would. You're glowing. Everything go well with Abby?"
"Yes, we tried out the new French bistro for lunch. You'd love it. Did you like your gift?"
"I did," Fitz replied, showing off his new watch.
Olivia winked. "I'm glad."
"Let me see your nails."
He studied Olivia's manicure, cracking a smile, before kissing her hand. "So pretty, almost as pretty as you. Let's take a selfie."
"You're so hip," she teased.
Some pictures were goofy, with lips poked out, and a couple were extra sweet, including kisses. In the last shot, Fitz stood behind Olivia, as she used his phone to take the picture. He kissed her cheek while her jaw dropped, in total shock.
Olivia laughed, giving back his phone, "You're so corny," but her giggles cut short as she watched Fitz kneel in front of her.
"Fitz," she called, voice cracking.
He took a deep breath and grinned. "Livvie, I love you so much. Your happiness means everything to me. I realize how amazing this year has been. If this is how life is with you, I don't want to miss any more time apart from you. I want you. I need you. I love you. I want to love you forever, with no hesitation. No boundaries. Full force. Just how you deserve. Olivia Pope, will you marry me?"
The weight of his words impacted Olivia greatly. Dropping the shoes. Her throat tightened as Fitz pulled out a velvet box, opening it to show her the beautiful diamond ring he got for her. Suddenly, her eyes began to water. An overwhelming feeling of warmth flooded her being, and it wasn't from the weather or the heat of the candle flames. She covered her face, shaking her head.
"Honey?"
Olivia finally allowed him to see her tear-stained face. He was still kneeling, eyes big with anticipation, waiting for a response.
"Y-y-yes."
Her knees gave way and she felt into Fitz's embrace. Their kisses were lush, hands roaming and reaching for anything they could hold on to. Naturally, she went for his hair and his cheeks, almost bumping into one of the displays Fitz set up.
"Wait," Fitz yelled, scooping Olivia into his arms, "Don't knock the candles over, baby!"
They burst into laughter, moving away.
"Oh my gosh, yes, yes, yes! Is this why you asked when I'd be back?"
Fitz slowly nodded. "I know it's just the backyard, but I wanted you to feel like you were in another place, Livvie."
"This is perfect! You outdid yourself."
She couldn't stop kissing and hugging her fiancé. "Oh, don't go anywhere, don't make dinner."
Fitz winked, "I wasn't going to. It's being delivered, if that's alright."
"You know me too well," she agreed, scrunching her nose at him, "I'm too tired to go out."
They swayed back and forth, enjoying the moment, with roses bordering their space. She didn't even realize that he turned on music, but it was the perfect addition to their special evening.
Several kisses and hugs later, they ventured to the patio couch. Olivia sat on Fitz's lap, tilted her head on him. "Who knew about this?"
"Your parents. Gabrielle. Abby. Harrison. My dad. Your whole team, actually."
Olivia gasped, turning to wag her finger at him, "You sneaky S.O.B. That's why everyone was treating me extra nice lately."
Fitz leaned back, returning with a sassy comeback. "I had to make sure everyone was on board with this! Their opinions mattered to me."
"The manicure!"
"Hmm?"
"That's why Abby wanted me to join her, so my nails looked good."
Fitz offered a smirk.
"You did that!"
"Mmhmm. I know you wouldn't want it any other way, beautiful. Can I take your picture?"
Showing off her new piece of jewelry, Olivia posed.
"Thank you. I love you," she puckered her lips for him to taste.
It was interesting; she knew this was going to happen, but she promised Fitz she'd let herself be surprised. Everytime she glanced down to her hand, the diamond on her finger sparkled brightly.
The view was glorious. Perfect summer weather, with the love of her life, glowing with confidence.
Looking up at the sky, she whispered, holding his hand, "I don't know what to say. Thank you."
"No, thank you, for saying yes. For not making me look foolish!"
Their eyes met, so overwhelmed with emotion and love. It finally occurred, the moment they both had waited for.
Olivia thought aloud, "How are we going to top this?"
"I don't know, but I think we should go inside. Are you going to call anyone?"
"They can wait. Oh, by the way. All of this," she gestured to Fitz's ensemble, suggestively moving her hand across his chest, fiddling with the buttons, "needs to come off. So I can thank you properly." Her sultry response brought Fitz to attention. Ears raised.
"Yes, Captain."
The next morning, Olivia touched her face — her cheeks were full and hurting from all the smiling, laughing, and crying. Feeling the cool metal on her skin, she remembered, there was a new ring was settled on her finger; she didn't have the courage to take it off before falling asleep. She didn't want the evening to end.
The first thing she did was lift her hand towards the ceiling and admire the beautiful addition.
"Wow."
Turning to the left, Fitz was sleeping soundly, hand behind his head, showing off his arm muscles.
Olivia scooted over to put her head on his chest. Sprinkling kisses on his skin, hoping he'd wake up soon.
"Hmmm," he mumbled.
"Hi."
"Hi."
She smiled, "Good morning, fiancé."
"Damn," he said, "That sounds so good. Good morning, Future Mrs. Grant."
Fitz squeezed her tightly.
"You drive me wild, Fitz Grant. We're going to get married," she answered. It was probably the first time in a long time she felt so vulnerable and still safe with anyone. "I've been keeping this a secret, but I've been dreaming about this."
"Really?"
"Yes," she replied, cupping his face with her hand. "As much as I imagined, this was different than I thought of. This is real."
"It is," he nodded.
Once again, her cheeks rose, revealing a wide smile. "I'm so happy."
"Me too," Fitz agreed, stroking her face.
Olivia lifted her head, capturing his lips again. Once they started, they couldn't stop. Physically tired from the nighttime activities they engaged in — two intense love-making session, that involved the bathtub, a small crack in the wall due to the headboard moving too much, and numerous love bites — but it wasn't too hard to just cuddle.
"Are you sore? I am."
"Heh," Fitz proudly grunted, probably already thinking of when the next time they would fool around. "A little bit. My back probably has so much scratches. Not my fault that's how your body responds to my body."
Olivia hit his shoulder. "Quiet, you. If you want any later, you shouldn't be cocky, Mr. Hot Shot."
"Great word choice."
Fitz's phone buzzed, which prompted them to separate. Looking at the text message, he informed Olivia of Teddy's arrival in twenty minutes.
"Did he know you were going to propose?"
"Yes and no. I asked him at the beach how he felt if I asked you. He screamed, cried, and begged me to do it that day. But I did not tell him when I was going to propose. He would have proudly announced to everyone and that wouldn't have worked out."
A little while later, Teddy ran into the house, calling for Gigi. The littlest member of the house, pranced towards him, barking.
"Hiya, Gigi. Did you miss me?"
Fitz greeted Teddy, by kissing his forehead.
"Hi, Daddy."
"Hey! Did you have a good time?"
Teddy dropped his dinosaur backpack, enthusiastically sharing, waving his arms, "Oh, yeah! We went to City Center, with all the pretty lights. Ate dinner. Grannie bought me new clothes!"
Amused, Fitz observed his son model his outift, a light blue t-shirt and black shorts.
"You're spoiled."
"I know," the young Grant admitted. "It's always when you have to go somewhere else. Someone has to be a good Grammie! And then, Daddy, we watched a movie downstairs on the big projector. It was so cool. And Auntie Gracie let me sleep in Jonah's old room. His bed is soooo nice!"
"Did you eat breakfast?"
Teddy sighed, "Yes… I remember what you said about not being picky when I'm a houseguest."
Fitz opened his arms; Teddy ran to him so he could be lifted off the ground. "Good boy. Thank you. Wow, man, the summer is making you big and strong. Where did my baby boy go?"
"I'll always be your baby boy, Daddy," Teddy squeezed his father's neck.
"You've been eating your fruits and veggies."
Without hesitation, Teddy interjected, "Yeah, like bananas."
"Ha ha," Fitz sarcastically answered.
Olivia snorted, hearing the boy's comeback. It was a known fact that her new fiancé did not approve of the particular fruit. That was an easy way to make sure he wouldn't eat her fruit salad or drink the smoothies she concocted. If he tried, she blurt out, "Banana!" The speed in which he'd place the cup down or pivot away was comical.
Fitz carried his son into the family room, where Olivia was typing on her laptop.
"Good morning, sweetie."
"Hi!"
Olivia grinned, as Teddy's face lit up. He leaned down to give her a kiss on the cheek.
Fitz patted his bottom, before lowering him back down.
"Not trying to be rude," Teddy started, inquisitively lifting his hands and shoulders, looking like a TV actor. "But why are you here, Livia? You don't have work?"
Olivia laughed and answered, "I don't know about your father, but I took the day off."
Giving her a playfully judgy look, Fitz said, "I also am not working today. We have something to tell you."
Gigi had stopped at Teddy's feet, waiting for some attention, so he knelt down to stroke her head. "What did you two do? Something weird?"
"No," Fitz replied, "Who are you, the adult now?"
The infectious laugh of Teddy filled the room. "No! I have to prepare myself."
Fitz sat down next to Olivia; they glanced at each other, confidence rising. He calmly spoke.
"Teddy, remember that thing we talked about at the beach?"
"Umm," he started, tapping his chin. "Maybe? Give me a hint!"
"I asked you if you were okay with Olivia being a part of our family?"
"Yes, I do."
"Well," Fitz continued, "I asked Olivia to marry me."
Teddy's eyes widened, looking at Olivia, then his father, then squeezed shut as he cried, running to them.
"Teddy bear!"
"I'm so happy. This is amazing," he sobbed.
"We are too."
Teddy wiped his eyes and exclaimed, "This is like a dream come true! I've been waiting for the longest time. I knew you'd be my new Mommy, Livia. Now I can tell everyone and they won't look at me funny. I wasn't making that up! Now I can call you Mommy Liv, or I don't know. What do you want to be called?"
Olivia's heart was so full with joy, literally exploding beautifully as she rubbed the boy's back.
"Mommy Liv sounds wonderful."