Hi! I had every intention of updating on Sunday, but it didn't work out (birthday / Scandalversary!). So, here's my gift to you. I hope you like. Heads up: I took liberties in regard to subject matter, to get the story moving along. Hope you like.

"I cannot think of any need in childhood as strong as the need for a father's protection." - S. Freud

"Daddy?"

With all that was occuring in his life, Fitz needed time to breathe. He took pride in being able to compartmentalize, but lately, it had not been the case. Too much was going on that he needed to stay on top of. He thought staying busy would solve problems, but recently, it had been a clusterfuck. So, things were falling by the wayside. The feelings from the initial trauma was slowly creeping in. He had gone through this process before and honestly, did not want to repeat anything. To his dismay, it was still happening.

This time around, he had to remind himself that he had his precious Olivia, and other loved loves, around to give reminders of how far he had come, since that painful first year, and that grounded him.

Mellie kept changing her mind and that made paperwork a complete bitch. Details regarding living arrangements, money, and time. Cyrus confirmed Mellie not only wanted Teddy to live with her in the summertime, but had a plan to move back to the area, to a neighborhood about twenty minutes away. She proposed Teddy attend a different school in September, that was equal distance from both residences. Fitz wasn't budging because that would be school number three in as many years. Teddy need consistency. The former spouses continued to nitpick and argue about big and small things, and the results were more stress on everyone.

On the outside, the Grants were looking like the perfect "blended" family. At school, other families wanted to get to know them better, and that was fine. But, like flawed creatures, people talk and they observe. It was not ideal to talk about their situation in public and they had only shared updates with their parents, Cyrus, Gracie, and confidants, which was for the best.

Teddy was oblivious, thankfully. He was a growing child, becoming more aware of his surroundings. All he knew was that Daddy and Mommy Liv were reading a lot of serious papers and signing them, and mumbling whenever he walked by.

Dinners were quiet. Olivia's goal was to not talk about the sore topic during meals. They needed a break. On nights when Teddy was picked up from gymnastics or art class, or a case was running long, it was a hidden blessing. When it was her time to cook, Olivia made sure the meals were simple and filling, because she had a feeling her dear hubby wasn't eating like he should. He'd rearrange the food, take smaller bites, and excuse himself.

Fitz wasn't his gregarious self. Not going out as much. Staying longer in Teddy's room, watching his baby sleep. Not wanting to leave him. Under better circumstances, it would have been fine, but the dynamic was so off, Fitz was worried his and Mellie's actions would affect their son's life, again. And selfishly, he was concerned about himself. The last five years he had to figure out this role solo, only for his ex to swoop in and try to take his beating heart — the reason why he could be successful.

While in his own head, he didn't notice the visitor nearby.

"Dad? Oh, Dadddyyyy..."

Blinking a few times, he spoke, "Hmm? Oh, hi!"

Teddy moved into the living room, rocking on his heels, quietly asked, "Are you busy?"

Fitz took off his glasses, and beamed at his son, who picked his own outfit for the day — a Nationals t-shirt and black gym shorts. "Not anymore. Come on over, baby."

He watched Teddy hop to the couch, flinging his arms open, so he could fly into his father's embrace. Fitz squeezed him tightly, not wanting to let go.

"How are you?"

"I'm fine. How are youuuuu?"

Fitz slowly grinned, pleasantly surprised by the question. "I'm okay."

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah," he stroked Teddy's cheek. "Thank you for asking."

The boy stared deeply into Fitz's eyes. "Daddy?"

"Hmm?"

"You don't look happy. Why?"

"To be honest," he replied in a whisper, "I'm upset about something."

Teddy solemnly asked, "Is it about Mom and Mommy Liv? I heard her crying earlier."

A sharp gasp fell from Fitz's lips; he had no clue. They had been busy working in their offices, and not making time to touch base. "What? Oh, no."

It was like looking into a mirror. Their eyes were full of life, feeling, and sadness.

With a nod, Teddy continued, "Mmhmm. You know when I'm hurt and I sound like a dying animal? It was sort of like that, Daddy. I didn't want to bug her, and I wanted to help, and I couldn't."

"It's okay you gave Livvie space. That was very sweet of you."

"I don't want her to cry anymore."

Teddy looked hurt himself, cuddling into Fitz's side even more; he wanted to affirm his son.

"Thank you for letting me know, Teddy Bear."

"Why is she crying? Did someone hurt her feelings?"

"I don't know how to explain everything. But...your Mom is thinking about moving here—"

Fitz watched Teddy's eyes widened, extremely curious.

"Here? Like the house? Or our town?"

"Our town," he said with conviction. "She wants to see you more. So, your schedule might change."

Teddy wasn't so sure he understood. "You don't want it to?"

Slowly, Fitz responded with a sad smile. "I don't know."

"Does that mean I'll live in two places?"

"Yes," Fitz said, then gave a kiss on Teddy's forehead. "We are going to make sure you have everything you need."

"My friend lives with his Mom most days and sometimes his Dad, and he has two of everything. Clothes. Toys. Toothbrushes. Bedrooms."

"That's cool. Maybe we can talk to him about more."

Teddy picked at the material on his shirt, haphazardly. "Yeah... So, I will have two of everything?"

"That's a possibility."

"Oh?"

"Yeah." Fitz let out a deep breath. The conversation was beginning to stress him out. Although the emotional toll was heavier with an infant, in a way it was somewhat easier to handle. The baby had no idea what was going, outside of when he was going to be fed and changed, so no need to explain. Now that Teddy was older and understanding more, it felt like another weight had been pushed down on him.

Similar to how he noticed Olivia, sweet Teddy was sensing his Dad's feelings. Quite the empath. Scooting himself around, he wrapped his arms around Fitz's neck. "It's all going to work out, Daddy. I still love you guys. I don't know why everyone is sad and fighting because of me. But you're still my Daddy and no one can take that away. Even if I live at Mom's house. I mean, we look alike! We stick together like peanut butter and jelly. Ham and cheese. The ocean and sand!"

The innocence of this child lightened Fitz's spirits.

"You're not going anywhere!"

He started a kissing attack on Teddy's cheeks, and gave a raspberry on his stomach. "I love you, buddy!"

Giggling loudly, Teddy exclaimed, "I love you lots! Daddy!"

After the tickle fest, the boys continued to bond with more cuddles and kind words. Fitz was grateful to God and his lucky stars, that his favorite boy was absolutely perfect.

"Were you playing upstairs?"

"Yeah. But I also want to ask if I can go outside?"

Fitz set Teddy down and replied, "Of course. Front or back?"

"Backyard, please."

Along with the trampoline, soccer balls, and goalnet, the Grants had enough space to add a new toy — a lime green monster truck! Gerry shipped it to the house for Teddy's birthday, but now that it was finally warm enough and the ground wasn't soggy, he could "drive" around. It had fancy attribitues, included an aux cord. The six-year-old, with Fitz's help, made a fun playlist of his riding tunes.

Fitz turned on his iPad, "Okay, cool. Come back inside once dinner is ready. Okay?"

Teddy raised his thumb and winked. "Yah!"

After hearing those precious footsteps moving from room to room, and closing the screen door, Fitz decided to find Olivia, and maybe talk about some things. Or at the very least, spend some quality time together.

She was still upstairs in her newly converted office, working on editing documents and contracts.

"Hey."

"Hey."

Olivia could sense her husband's eyes on her. Looking at him in the doorway, she asked, "What's up?"

"I... I just wanted to check on you."

"Aww, you're sweet. But really, what's up?"

"So… Teddy told me that you weren't feeling good earlier?"

Olivia's gentle smile disappeared. Returning to her work, she curtly answered, "I'm fine."

"Oh?"

"Yeah."

Fitz could tell she was avoiding the subject. "Baby?" His tone was inquisitive and rose in pitch, from his regular baritone.

"No. Not right now. I have to finish this."

"Livvie."

Olivia shook her head, biting her lip, and willing herself not to burst into tears. Fitz rushed for her side, immediately rubbing her back.

"What's wrong?"

"Fitz..."

Taking a deep breath, he asked, "Sweet baby...talk to me. Is it because of Mellie?"

"No. It's you."

Eyebrows lowered, he asked, "Me? What do you mean?"

"You'll get mad."

"Try me."

Olivia placed her hands on her desk, giving herself a minute. Fitz knew the signs and took a step back. When she was finished, she replied, "I'm worried. You're not eating like you should and you're definitely not yourself. I can tell. I know you're nervous with all this crap you're dealing with. But... we're still here for you. We're not going anywhere. I don't want you to get hurt and go to a place you don't need to go."

Fitz sighed, "I know."

The two stilled, waiting for some kind of impetus. But nothing came.

"I don't know what I can do to help you," Olivia softly answered, shifting her gaze towards him.

With sad eyes, he touched her cheek, "Just being with me and here for me is more than enough. I am so grateful."

"But, Fitz. Something is wrong and as your wife, I want to know what you're thinking. I can't be here for you, if I am not in a position to know what's going on."

Olivia slipped her hand in his, squeezing it, hoping he would be open to share more.

"I want to keep him. I don't want to lose him. Damn it!" His voice was faltering and there was no point in trying to be strong.

"Hey — you will not lose him. We will not lose our sweet boy."

Just like that, his shoulders fell forward as he began to cry. Olivia cupped his face, bringing him close, so she could comfort him with a kiss. A long, searing kiss that softened the blow.

"Let's go lie down."

Moving to the bedroom, and falling on the mattress, they didn't have to remove clothes to become intimate. They'd wait for later, once Teddy was asleep. Just breathing in sync, listening to each other's heartbeat. Hands brushing against skin and and fabric, slowly guiding each other to find where to heal.

She let him sob, holding him to her chest, rocking him back and forth. Along with their words, touch was so important to realign themselves.

Olivia softly brushed his longer waves out of his face. In between soft and tender kisses, she encouraged him. "We are going to get through this. Our baby is so brave. And so are you, honey."

Fitz scheduled a telephone session with his therapist, Joseph. They had been a team since the divorce. It was about damn time to face the music and work things out, without Olivia trying to be a fixer, and before the next steps were in place. So, in his office at the Institute, he talked with Joseph. It was a rarity and not always recommended, but with the time crunch, it all worked out.

"I know things are not pleasant right now."

Fitz scoffed, "Yeah, that's an understatement."

"Share with me what you're feeling and how this is affecting you."

"I'm pissed off and I'm scared."

Joseph kindly asked, "Why?"

Fitz leaned back in his chair, centering himself. "Pissed that she'd do this to me. Again. Just when my life is actually going right for a change. My son is happy, I'm with the woman I love. And… now all these threats to take him, and cause a riff between Olivia and me. Making everything so difficult. That's selfish. I've worked so damn hard to create the best life for him, given our situation. But if she doesn't change, he will get hurt again. I'm bitter."

"Do you think she's feeling the same way?"

"I bet," he snorted. It was difficult for him to stay neutral or try think of how Mellie was feeling, coping, or whatever, when it came to their son. "I'm confused why she'd do this now. She had all this time. I know other divorced parents who are able to get this done without the bullshit. Sorry."

"No, you're fine. Let me ask you this," Joseph changed gears. "What if the judge rules in your favor? How will you respond?"

"I don't want their ties to be severed, but I need her to earn our trust. How can I make sure that happens and not look like an overzealous, protective father?"

Fitz waited for Joseph's answer.

"To be honest, you have to determine how to set healthy boundaries for yourself and ex-wife, and of course, your wife. The parenting aspect will be unique. Yes, the endgame is for Teddy to grow as a healthy person, but until he turns 18, you will need to communicate with Mellie. It may just be through emails and texts. But it still has to happen where you are not stunting your growth as an individual. And you will need to share your expectations with her."

"I see. I will work on it."

"Fitz, I believe in you. You are going to do what's best for yourself and Teddy."

Nothing else mattered. Teddy was his pride and joy. The pulse to his heart. No one had the right to take him away.

But it still hurt like hell.

With the judge's blessing, they agreed to have Mellie host Teddy at her AirBnB from Thursday morning-Saturday afternoon. This would give her the opportunity to learn about what he did for school and his extracurriculars, knowing the schedule of what could happen during the school year.

Olivia was not in the mood to be a part of the encounter, so she left for work early.

Fitz woke up early to get a workout in, shower, and prepare for his work day. Doing a little more than usual: blasting his favorite '80s and alternative rock songs whil e styling his hair, and changing into a dark blue polo and jeans. He wasn't going to work until 11, so he wanted to be comfortable.

Once he was set, he got Teddy up and moving, with the essentials and breakfast. He was double checking the backpack, suitcase, and lunchbox, when he heard Mellie's car park in the driveway. Not wanting to cause a fuss, he marched to the door, opening it. He always remembered how Mellie would always make a scene. In her signature red dress and nude pumps, she strolled up the walkway and met him at the door.

"Good morning."

"Hi, Mellie."

"Is Teddy ready?"

"Hold on. Teddy Bear! Your mother is here."

Instead of being super petty, he invited her inside. He did not want anything miniscule to be held against him.

"How are you?"

"I'm fine," he promptly answered. "You?"

Mellie smiled, "I'm okay. The foyer looks nice."

A bit confused and annoyed, Fitz commented, "Thanks..."

The awkwardness. After four years of officially being divorced, it was still difficult to be cordial. Somehow, he prayed that if this really happened, he wouldn't feel the bitter gall rising in his throat every time he heard her name again, or saw her face.

Fitz handed Mellie a piece of paper. "So, um, here's a list of his activities for the next two days. I let them know you'll be picking him up."

"Oh," she replied, scanning it over. "Thank you. Wow, he sure does a lot."

Narrowing his eyes, Fitz added, "Hmm, I think it's on par with what other kids his age are doing."

Mellie nodded, "Anything to keep them busy, I suppose. Right?"

In the nick of time, Teddy came downstairs, taking a peek. "Hi, Mom."

Both adults got it together, adjusting their tense body language. Mellie greeted, "Hi, sweetheart. Good morning!"

"Hi."

Teddy took a few minutes to say bye to Gigi, retrieve his own teddy — from Olivia — and pick up his things.

Mellie insisted to take his suitcase, "Oh, let me, honey. Ready to go?"

"Yeah. Okay, bye, Daddy."

Fitz lifted Teddy, and kiss his cheek several times. "Be a good boy and I'll see you on Saturday. Call me later if you can."

Feeling his boy hug him tightly, and then skip away, made his heart swell.

Mellie began to pull the rolling suitcase, "Thanks, Fitz."

"Sure."

Before she left, Mellie asked, "Bedtime?"

"In bed by 7:30, lights out by 8:15. Except for Friday, he can stay up until 8:30."

Fitz waited on the front step, with Gigi in tow, and stayed until Mellie's car was out of sight.

He chose to take the advice of the therapist, and think of other things. Connect with Olivia and his friends. Not to worry (as much) about what was going on with his ex-wife. She knew what was at stake, it would behoove her to act right.

On Saturday afternoon, Teddy returned. He was suspiciously quiet when Mellie talked to Fitz, providing a glowing review of the visit.

"Did you have fun?"

"Hmm, it was okay."

"T, what's going on? You can tell me."

Not wanting to talk, Teddy let his shoulders rise and descend, letting out a heavy sigh.

Fitz knelt down to talk; eye contact was always key when they discussed anything.

"Please?"

Teddy inhaled and let it rip: "Mom thinks I'm taking sides. She asked me if I liked being with her and I said it was okay. I don't think she believes me. I heard her talk to her boyfriend, remember Andrew?"

"Yeah."

"Okay, well, she told him that she thinks I love Mommy Liv more and I don't care about her anymore. But I didn't say that! That's not true, right? Why would she say that?"

As he listened, Fitz wanted to run to his phone and curse the living daylights out of Mellie. He assumed Teddy was repeating back what he heard. Watching his son pour his heart out, looking so hurt, was devastating.

"No…"

"She made me feel bad. What's that word you use? Crappy? Shitty?"

Fitz covered his mouth, stifling an ironic chuckle. They had been working on language since their meeting with Mrs. Watson. "You can't use that word right now, buddy. But I know what you mean."

"Is she right?"

"About what?"

"That I like Mommy Liv more?"

"I—"

Fitz didn't know what to do. His uncertainty was not lost on Theodore.

"I'm fruuussstrated!"

And just like that, he slid to the floor, wailing.

Fitz's instincts took over, rocking his baby during this difficult time. After a few minutes of trying to dry Teddy's tears and assure him it was okay to express himself, he stepped away to give both of them a moment. Getting a glass of water, along with tissues, and a blanket.

When he returned, Teddy's crying subsided, somewhat. Gigi had entered into the scene, figuring out what was going on. She was right by Teddy's side, and he was talking to her.

"Oh, Gigi. If I go to Mom's house, I won't see you! I'd be a mess without you. You're my best friend."

"Here."

Fitz lowered himself to sit next to Teddy, crossing his legs.

"Hi, baby girl."

Gigi barked a few times, giving Fitz some attention, before snuggling with Teddy.

"Daddy, is it bad if I want to...take a break? I don't want her to be angry with me. Or tell her how bad she made me feel?"

"Your words are important. And you can tell your Mom. Sometimes adults forget that you're listening to what we say. Even if it's not always happy stuff, and it hurts others."

"Wanna lie down and maybe take a nap?"

"O-o-oh-ok," Teddy replied, sniffling.

Fitz got Teddy settled and waited for Olivia to come back from her afternoon out, so they could talk. He relayed the conversation to her, over a glass of scotch. Olivia was nursing on some wine, because she knew that it would be a doozy of a tale.

"I'm...over it," she shook her head, putting her feet on the couch. "This is getting to be too much."

"How could she be so reckless?"

Olivia winced, quickly patting her hand in a downward motion. "Honey, please, lower your voice."

Fitz raised his glass, "Thanks, baby. But seriously, what in the entire fuck?"

For the next hour, they worked out a few options for the upcoming hearing.

"I should take this." Fitz walked into his office, then accepted the call. Olivia decided to clean, so she'd be less tempted to eavesdrop.

"Oh, shit. Can I call you back? I'll call you right back. Hello?"

Immediately, she set down the clean silverware, and moved closer to where Fitz was; she had never heard him talk to anyone like this before. His voice was very firm, sharp, and aloof, not the calming tone she had grown accustomed to.

"Yeah, about that. You weren't being honest. He told me what you said and honestly, I am disappointed in you. I am. No… I don't think that is any of your concern. What? His friends called you the bad mom? Well...I can't confirm or deny something like that."

Fitz swung the door open, hand clenched in a fist. Moving to the bar cart, so he could get another drink. Olivia rushed over, taking the bottle away, and only poured a little. He paused, listening to Mellie, and kissed Olivia's cheek, then forehead. He mouthed, "Thank you."

"Oh, for fuck's sake, Mellie. I'm willing to be accomodating, but you have to meet me halfway."

Fitz sighed, downing the warm liquid, while listening to her explain why she was hesitant of his parenting skills. Including that he was elevating his relationship with his current wife higher than his son's wellbeing.

"You have got to be kidding me. You don't even know her. Why the hell are you jealous? Jealous of something you could have had right here, but you didn't want that. You left. You're mad that I moved on and found the love of my life. Okay, remember when he told me you were dating again? Don't remember giving you shit for having my child in his presence. What makes me different? You know he came home today, he was crying his heart out because you are saying he's picking sides. Until I have proof that you are a good influence and mother to my son, I do not want you to see him, unsupervised. You know what, I'm not doing this… Why? Because I'm getting irritated and I've realized, again, that I can't discuss anything with you effectively… just email or text me. Ok. Bye."

Fitz tossed his phone on the couch and closed his eyes. There was nothing he could do. He could feel Olivia next to him, rubbing his knee.

"Sorry about that."

"What... did she say?"

Fitz emphatically replied, "Liv. The crap she mentioned is irrelevant and does not need to be repeated."

"You know who you're talking to right? I can take it." Olivia was not playing games, giving Fitz a pointed glare, that stopped him in his tracks.

"She is questioning everything I do and thinks you're the reason I'm 'fucking up'," he explained, using air quotes. "She believes you need to take a back seat in parenting, and know your role as a stepmother. That is some bullshit, if anyone is an outsider, it's her! That will not fly with me and I won't tolerate it."

Olivia finished her glass, and leaned over to kiss Fitz. It surprised him, being held captive by her. She wouldn't let him move much, she wanted to take control. He palmed her ass, while she straddled him, grinding on his crotch, feeling how hard he was becoming. Fitz lifted himself, sitting upright, craving more of her touch.

"Livvie," he panted, against her mouth.

With a sly grin, she reached down between them, to feel him up. "Mmhmm. I know."

"I want..."

She muffled his words, driving her tongue into his mouth.

"Fuck..."

"Shhhh." Olivia carefully moved away, unzipping his jeans, exposing his velvety flesh. He helped her lower his jeans. She made quick work, pumping him, moving the seeping liquid around to expedite the process. Who knew when Teddy would wander back downstairs.

Fitz's breathing shallowed.

"Come on, baby," she encouraged before taking him into her mouth.

His hips lifted, feeling the heat going throughout his body, until he couldn't resist it anymore. When he had enough strength to open his eyes, he glanced down to see her in between his legs, stroking him while swirling her tongue around his head and shaft. His Livvie was so talented...

She looked up, lovingly, giving him the signal that she was ready for him, holding on to his knee.

"Oh, shit," he moaned repeatedly as his cum filled her mouth.

When Olivia finished, leaving him wet and bothered, still with his jaw dropped, she leaned back on her knees, looking quite accomplished.

"What was that for," he asked, chest rising and falling rapidly.

She wiped her mouth with the back of her hand, then smirked. "I personally think when you stand up for me, it turns me on. I'm a sucker for it. And I needed to thank you. You probably needed that too. All worked up."

Fitz's eyebrows rose, feeling grateful, but also impressed with how bold his wife was, and spontaneous. That was so hot.

Olivia left to wash her hands, then came back to him with a wet towel. He thanked her as he quickly cleaned up and pulled up his jeans. He noticed she took his phone and dialed a number.

"What are you doing now?"

"I'm caling Cyrus," she stated plainly, with a deadpan expression. "We need this hearing to be over and done."

Teddy's days were filled with homework, assemblies, and observation days at gymnastic class. Whatever to keep him occupied, Fitz was determined to make that happen. On Tuesdays and Fridays nights, whenever the Nats were home, the Grants would attend games. Olivia was able to hold a ladies' night, while Fitz and Teddy were in Southwest. Six of the neighboorhood ladies were chilling on the patio, with their favorite drinks and appetizers.

"Sooo… what's going on in the Grant world?"

"Nothing much." Olivia took a sip of her raspberry iced tea, which had become her beverage of choice. Sort of like Diet Coke, it had an addictive quality to it, but not as much guilt.

Julie, from five doors down, finished her snack of gouda cheese on an artisan cracker. "Come on, Liv. There must be something to add to the vague description of 'married bliss'?"

"Redecorating the house. I am in charge of deciding on new paints upstairs."

"How's Fitz?"

Olivia rolled her eyes; it was inevitable. The ladies were curious. They weren't blind. He had been distant with almost everyone. "You know...same old, same old."

The ladies exchanged skeptical glances.

"But really? He never looks happy when I see him at the store."

Another gulp of tea, followed by a piece of chocolate. Weird, but it was comforting. "He's stressed. There is a lot going on and I don't know what to do. If I focus on it, he gets upset, because he thinks I shouldn't worry about this. But I'm supposed to be concerned. Right?"

"Olivia, are you okay?"

"I'm… frazzled. Trying to be strong for him, but it doesn't always work."

"Well, if any of this is connected to his ex, she doesn't stand a chance," Bridget Ann, the Grants' next door neighbor, decided. Her statement was bold and endearing to Olivia. "It's just been the two of them for so long. And then you came along, and it's been for the better. If Teddy's mother really wanted to move forward, she'd let things stay the way they are."

"My co-worker says Mellie is trying to move back. She saw her at Whole Foods and she seemed adamant."

Keeping her composure, Olivia added, "I don't know what's going on, but what I'm certain of, is that my husband will handle it."

The day arrived — May 18th — when a judge would review all the materials both sides presented and give a final decision.

The Grants took the Metro to Judiciary Square, and walked to the city's Family Court Central Intake Center. The day before, Fitz gave Teddy a rundown of how everything would work, and he'd have a lot of time to read or play on the iPad.

Olivia wore a black powersuit, with a cream camisole, and black heels. Fitz knew he never went wrong with his dark grey suit, white shirt, and striped tie, paired with his go-to wingtips. Teddy wore a sports coat, polo, khakis, and boating shoes, which was his choice. He knew it was an important day and he'd be talking a judge. He didn't want to look "sloppy".

The session went smoothly; Teddy went into a separate room to share his experience. He did an amazing job, being brave and patient. He said he loved all of his parents, and didn't want them to be mad. But he liked being with his Dad more, since "That's the life I know."

When he walked out of the room, he saw all three adults. He waved and stood still, probably the first time he'd ever seen them all in the same space. Ever.

In a black dress and blue blazer, Mellie approached, with a big smile. "Hi, Teddy."

"Hi, Mom."

She hugged him and he gave her a kiss on the cheek. It was endearing to watch the two interact. Olivia noticed a few similarities, but she had to admit — Teddy was definitely his father's son. She wished that whatever hurt his parents inflicted on each other, would not be felt by Teddy, in the long run.

"How are you doing today?"

"I'm okay. I went to Judge Randolph and we talked. I can't tell you what because that's a secret." His playful brown eyes could make anyone's day better.

Mellie's cheerful laugh was an obnoxious as nails on a board. "That's okay. I understand. I'll see you when we're done?"

Teddy nodded. "Yeah. Hi, Daddy, and hi, Mommy Liv."

"Hi, baby."

They noticed her stiff response.

A clerk opens the door and invites them in. Teddy goes off with Gracie, while the adults enter. As soon as they sat down, all three were on their best behavior. Fitz and Olivia held hands under the table. Whenever either would get tense, one would squeeze a knee or the hand, or give a signal via their eyes.

The judge asked for documentation with schedules, emails, getting updates about Fitz. She noticed the disconnect with communication between Fitz and Mellie. That would play a factor in her decision.

Fitz started off his deliberation, expressing how life has been easier with routine, and with Teddy's attachment / abandonment issues, it's necessary that he stays in the District. "In the last four years, Teddy has dealt with a lot of challenges, but things are getting better. He has been able to thrive in a healthy family dynamic, along with a great friend circle. I respect and appreciate your wisdom in this manner, Your Honor."

"Ms. Grant, it shows in your documents, that you have had a change of heart."

Mellie stood staight in her chair and stated her case, "Your Honor, I have taken time to work out my issues. Since we divorced, I had to figure out who I was as a woman and a mother. I know it does not seem apparent, but I do care about my son. I am not a bad mother. He's getting older, and I would like the opportunities to see him more often, adding to the positive training my ex-husband has given him. I know that with this potential job transfer, I will have more time to be there for Theodore. He needs his mother around and I intend to return to a more active role."

Olivia squeezed Fitz's hand; he knew that was a low blow, but he remained calm.

The judge cleared her throat, "Okay, thank you, Ms. Grant."

"Thank you."

"Mrs. Grant?"

"Yes?"

"I would like your thoughts on the matter."

"I was not expecting to be a bonus Mom. But as I got closer to Fitz and Teddy, my heart grew to love them. I care for him. I tuck Teddy in at night. I comfort him when he's sad. He has started to call me Mommy. He did that on his own. Teddy is a part of my life and I have seen the changes in his personality and emotional health, for the better. I love him with all my heart. I understand the complexities of all of this, given this agreement was in place before I started dating Fitz. But I am willing to co-parent the best way I know how, and work with both Fitz and Mellie."

A hour long break occured, giving everyone time to get fresh air, tend to their own affairs, or make sure Teddy had lunch. When they reconvened, Judge Randolph closed the folders, and addressed the Grants and Mellie.

"As much as I would like to change the circumstances, Miss Grant, I do not find reasons to adjust the terms of custody for Theodore at this time. He is a young child, not a commodity that can tossed along, due to one's convenience. I do not believe a long-term adjustment will be beneficial for him at this time. The ruling stands. Primary custody will remain with Mr. & Mrs. Fitzgerald Grant III. Miss Grant will continue to receive visits, three weeks in the summer, and every other holiday, starting with Thanksgiving of this year. Thank you all for being cooperative today, and I hope the three of you will be able to work together for Teddy's sake."

After the hearing ended, Mellie grabbed her purse, and walked out; Fitz and Olivia followed.

Teddy was sitting with Gracie, but ran over when he saw them.

Fitz and Olivia gave Mellie her space as she talked to Teddy, before they went their separate ways.

"This...was a complete waste of time," he mumbled. "A fucking waste of time."

Olivia fixed his suit collar. "Hmm."

Rolling his eyes, he complained, "This is so like her. When things get tough or uncomfortable, she backs out. Did you catch that all she did was talk about herself? What in the fuck? I'm tired. I shouldn't be mad. I should be relieved. No extra arrangements. But still… we had to go through this all over again."

"Fitz," Olivia coaxed, taking his arm. "But you did it. You passed the test."

He put his hands on her shoulder blades, then brought her into a hug. "I love you."

"I love you," she replied.

Teddy and Mellie, hand in hand, met with the Grants.

Mellie smiled to Olivia, "Take care of them. He just lights up when they're together. We shouldn't have gotten married, but I'm glad we had Teddy. I look forward to working with you."

Politely nodding, she agreed, "I will, and yes, that sounds like a plan."

The former Mrs. Grant said goodbye to Fitz and then Teddy one more time, before leaving.

It was a messy win; Teddy would still have to travel back and forth throughout the year, but he had a better grasp of what was going on. He'd have to nuture relationships with all three parents, separately. The techniques would vary; Fitz, Olivia, and Mellie would have different opinions. But the goal was still the same — to raise up a child in the way he should go.