This chapter reflects the month of October, with Olivia being six months pregnant.

"Some of the days you feel so inadequate that you might not be strong enough to be a mother, there's a lively kick inside you and it reminds you there's someone who already believes in you."

"Hi."

Olivia was stirring ingredients for muffins, in a loose sweatshirt and bike shorts, probably one of the few outfits she felt comfortable in. Autumn had begun, but the temperatures hadn't dropped. So she needed any items that could give her enough warmth and breathability. The little one was growing, which she was oh-so-thankful for, but the changes were making Olivia feel extremely self-conscious of her figure.

"Hi."

Fitz dipped his chin on her shoulder blade, and placed his hands on her hips. Both had agreed to take a half day, so they could cross off more of their baby to-do list, like starting the registry, and buy furniture.

"Good morning, Mrs. Grant."

"Good morning, Fitzgerald."

"You smell delicious."

"Aht aht aht, Mr. Grant," she reprimanded, "Don't even go there. I am in the middle of something."

Fitz gently turned her away from the counter, so they could properly hug. It was their first moment of alone time of the day; Fitz left early to drop off Teddy at school, which gave Olivia an extra hour to herself, and check emails.

"Is this just for you or the house?"

"Definitely me, but you can have some too."

"Umm, those are some wild lookin' blueberries."

"Those are not. Boysenberries."

Fitz gasped, "Boysenberries!" He delighted in Olivia's risen cheeks, and tight embrace.

She nodded excitedly, "Mmhmm! I had to search high and low for these. It's been so long. Thanks to an extensive Google search, I was able to place an order. The right blend of sweet and tart. Makes me miss my wine."

Fitz glanced over the receipt. "From Washington? The state?"

"Yeah…" Olivia shrugged wryly. "Just had to have 'em."

"My my my. You don't quit."

"I do not, baby."

"What else are you craving these days, Livvie?"

"A juicy steak. Your burgers. Sweet tea. Not raspberry, but sweet tea."

"Anything else," he asked, palming her ass.

Olivia bit her lip, staring him down — admiring how buff he looked in his blue flannel shirt and jeans — then stood on her toes, so she could whisper in his ear. "A little too early to admit but…you. All of you. We should go to the basement so I can show you what I mean."

Fitz's eyebrows lifted, somewhat surprised his wife was being very honest with her desires. "Mmm...Baby."

"Mmhmm. I know you like it when I'm on my knees for ya."

"Are you sure? I'd rather—"

"I do."

"How about we go upstairs, and be comfortable? The basement seems so...disingenuous, like we're trying to hide. It's just us."

The intensity in Fitz's eyes made Olivia gasp. Her lips parted, and she could feel her body respond to him, so quickly. It had been weeks since she felt this way.

"Let me...let me finish these muffins."

Fitz leaned forward to kiss both sides of her neck, and lingered there. It was hard to concentrate when the love of her life was wanting her.

Instead of adding to the dry ingredients, she put a cloth towel over the bowl, and made her way to the bedroom. She still had some pep in her step.

Olivia walked into Teddy's bathroom and reviewed her apperance. She wasn't looking her best. Makeup hadn't been applied and the oversized shirt made her look bigger. Instead of sulking, she pulled it off, to reveal a low cut bra. That might make Fitz excited, she assumed. Then, she took the hairband from her wrist, and lifted her curls to form a high ponytail.

"Livvie?"

She took a deep breath, adjusted her waistband, then walked to the bedroom. Fitz was standing by the bed, waiting for her.

"Shit."

"What?"

Fitz's grin widened. "Pregnancy is making you look super incredible. Your boobs..."

Olivia blushed, rushing to cover herself with her arm. "Fitzy…"

"Do you know how often women want to look like you, all the time?"

Fitz moved towards her, and put his hand over hers. "I can't make you feel differently, but I think you look remarkable. You're so beautiful."

It was going to take some time, but Olivia appreciated her husband's sweet words. Her hands went for his belt.

"Olivia."

"I want to."

She been craving this for a while. But anytime Fitz would flirt, or get handsy, she would pull back. She thought something was wrong with her, like physically. Because she loved having sex with her husband. If they had an hour or two, down time would usually lead to several orgasms and lots of laughter. But every day, looking in the mirror, feeling super bloated, and tired. Nothing was feeling right. She'd try to hide or use the fact that she was too tired to deter Fitz, but she knew that he knew.

"Get on the bed. I'll kneel right here."

Olivia took a pillow, while Fitz lowered his jeans.

Did she feel nervous? Of course. She didn't want to disappoint, but seeing him, eager to receive her, and telling her, "You're doing great," helped.

Seeing his baby go down on him, with her breasts nearly spilling out of her bra, was a wonderful sight to behold. He wasn't last long if he kept looking.

A few minutes later, she finished. Fitz was elated.

His phone rang, so he took the call. When he returned, half dressed, Olivia had another idea.

"Wanna fuck?"

The question literally knocked Fitz off his feet. He whipped around from standing at the dresser. Olivia was sitting on the bed, her feet dangling, giving the most innocent glance, still in her bra and shorts.

"What?"

"I know. It's been like…a month."

"That's okay."

She groaned, knowing that it wasn't.

"Livvie. Whenever you're ready, I'll be ready. And however you want to do this, you know we are versatile. I will make you come."

Olivia stalled, "Are you saying this because you want to? Or because—"

Fitz held her hand, and looked deeply into her eyes. "I would love to fuck you. I just want to follow your lead."

Olivia giggled. "Okay. Thank you."

"You do know how hard you make me, right?" He continued after seeing her roll her eyes. "I'm serious. Remember when we'd be apart because of work, or other distractions, and as soon as we got home, how quickly..."

"Yessir, honey."

Fitz started to kiss her, from her neck, to the valley between her breasts, down to her stomach, while his hand was working between her legs.

"Take them off," she sighed.

"You are the sexiest mama on the planet."

"Lies."

Fitz leaned back, curling his lip in fake disgust. "I've seen and talked to a bunch of them since Teddy was two years old.. My truth is the truth!"

"I'm just so… I don't feel that sexy."

Just when she was going to whine some more, Olivia squealed as Fitz lifted her, holding her against the wall. It reminded her of their early days, when they'd fuck anywhere.

"None of that. Everything you do turns me on. What did we just do?"

She mumbled in between kisses, "I gave you an amazing blowjob."

'That's right, because I have the best, sexiest wife."

He ran his hands down her legs and hips. He bit his lip, watching her sigh, her body relaxing. When he knew she was ready, Fitz helped Olivia lay down, and spread her legs apart, removing her panties.

"How does it look down there?"

"Perfect, like always."

Fitz inserted his index and middle fingers. She was so tight and wet.

"Fuck."

Olivia propped herself, leaning on her arms, impatiently waiting for her husband, who was taking his sweet time to give her what she really wanted. He lapped her juices, gradually sucking on her clit, while continually finger fucking her. But she enjoyed the view and his thick digits were filling her just right.

"I know you're underestimating my needs and skills, Grant. You better pray to God that you're ready, because I will need more."

Fitz enjoyed that sentence. "Give me a minute, wanna hear you scream. But you tell me if you need to stop."

Fifteen seconds later, she screamed. But they weren't done.

After Fitz stripped down, Olivia took off her bra and straddled him. The confidence was exuding and he loved every moment of it. Olivia always knew her husband was downright sexy, but damn, he was looking extra good right now. His chest all broad. After their foreplay, his hair was all over the place and that was attractive too.

She rode him. Hard. Her palms firm on his shoulders as her hips swiveled against him. He felt amazing inside of her, reaching where she wanted. The moans couldn't truly express how she felt. Everything was perfect. When she heard him moan, calling out "Baby" and "Yes, Livvie," the relief filled her heart. All of the shitty thoughts and fears she had, about how she'd perform during sex, were dissipating.

"Please," she called in exasperation, "Keep going..."

They were moving so well and like Fitz promised, versatility was in their favor. Olivia was on her back, and Fitz lifted one leg over his shoulder. He wanted to make sure she was comfortable but still receiving all the pleasure she desired.

"May I," he asked, glancing at her firm nipples.

"Sure. Just be gentle."

Olivia arched her back while his lips touched her sensitive skin. The energetic sensation ran through her body, and that helped her tremendously.

"Kiss me."

His tongue dove into her mouth; their kisses become sloppier and rushed, matching their frantic pace. Olivia's gasps grew louder as she finally let go. The stars, butterflies, and every other cliche phrase after a powerful orgasm.

"How did that feel?"

Olivia snuggled into Fitz's embrace, "I needed that — thank you, honey." She didn't care they were so gross and sweaty, everything was perfect. "Is it bad if we try again?"

Fitz smirked, as he kissed her glistening skin. Her collarbone was looking delectable.

"Wow, you aren't tired? It's been a while."

"Not at all."

"You have an appetite, Mrs. Grant."

"Not my fault I'm finally becoming myself again."

"I am not complaining, Livvie."

Fitz met her lips, for a soft and lingering kiss. It was so comforting.

Eyes closed, Olivia reached for her phone. "Hmm...Let's see. It's ten-twenty seven."

"I can easily play hookie," Fitz proudly stated. "Don't you have a big meeting you have to prepare for?"

She traced her finger along his jawline, contemplating. "As the owner of OPA, I can make an arrangement and call in. I'm going to let Abby know."

"Is that so?"

Olivia moved to lay on her side, so she could call her favorite redhead.

"Hey, are you okay?"

"Yes, thank you for asking. I underestimated how long my to-do list would be. I'll call in right before one."

"No problem. We will take care of the meeting at one, and send you notes."

"Everyone can leave after that."

"Perfect! Thanks, Liv. Text me if you need any help."

"Oh, we're good over here. Fitz has it handled."

"Fitz? He's with you? Hmm. Liv, are you breathing heavy?"

"No..."

"You got some, didn't you? After a whole six weeks of not wanting any of your husband's—"

"Whelan!"

"I'm so glad. Now if you excuse me, I need to go work. Bye…"

"Well, that was exciting," Fitz rested his forehead on her shoulder.

Olivia frowned; "That girl. Now I feel guilty! Let's go and I will revisit this later."

Watching her saunter towards the bathroom, all beautiful and naked, and observing how energized she was now, Fitz chuckled, "Yes, ma'am."

The four couples that named themselves the informal Chevy Chase Crew, needed a night out. Andrew and Jana, good friends of the Grants, invited several couples to their loft downtown, the first pair to leave the neighborhood. Olivia thought it was the perfect time to let loose and have fun. Fitz was living it up, being the newlywed, showing off his grilling skills on the balcony.

Sipping her sparkling cider, Olivia asked the ladies about their lives, what was going on. Then, the conversation turned.

Samantha asked, "What's new, Liv?"

"Well, other than the obvious," she pointed to her belly, covered by a sleek black sweater, "Almost ready to sell my apartment."

"How much?"

"I want to sell it for about 550."

"Oh, really?"

Olivia passed her phone around so the ladies could see the layout. "Yeah. Right on Connecticut Ave., Metro accessible. Perfect for a single person, or couple new to the area, or they want to live in the city. I think it's a win. So if you know anyone, let me know. The sooner, the better."

"Profit?"

"It will be something nice. Kinda already know what I want to do with it."

"Spill…," Avery Ann, a neighbor who lived two blocks away, got excited. "But only if you feel comfortable."

Olivia laughed. "Mmhmm. Definitely invest, put some of it away for Teddy and the baby, donate some. Maybe a new car."

"New car?"

"Yeah. I deserve."

Samantha inquired, "What kind would you like?"

"S-Class Sedan. In black."

"You should get Fitz to buy it for you."

"What?"

Avery Ann confirmed, "Yeah, as a push gift or early anniversary present."

"Really? Is that really something guys do? Buy her a car?"

"Why not," Margeaux's jaw dropped. "All the celebrities and trendy parents do it."

"We are not celebrities."

"Not yet."

"We are not that couple."

Avery Ann disagreed, "Bullshit. You two are the gorgeous pair, most accomplished, and I heard you're getting interviewed again by Washington Life."

"My company is."

"But girl, someone took a pic of you at Congressional back in the spring, and it made the style blog," Margeaux added. "After the wedding, interest in your family has skyrocketed. And you're still getting play after Fitz's interview with Novak."

Olivia huffed; there was nothing special about her life. Just because she married a lawyer and gained a beautiful son, and they worked incredibly hard to get to where they currently were at? "I still don't get it. But if that means it brings good press to OPA and the Institute, I'm fuckin' here for it. But honestly, I wanna buy it myself. I've never done it before. My parents got me the coupe and as cute as it is, I want to do this."

"Fitz better buy you something," Margeaux stated, looking over to where he was standing.

"Oh, he will. I've given him hints."

After more girl talk, they decided to play a comedy and everyone chatted throughout the movie, just having a great time.

Olivia always wanted to participate in more small gatherings, instead of the work outings she had to organize. Even with her pregnancy, she wasn't stopping with the PR circuits for her clients. But she needed downtime. Here, she could be her silly self, break into giggle fits, tell dirty jokes, and connect with other married couples.

"Liv, why are you on the floor?"

"It's comfy. Want some pineapple?"

Fitz grunted as he found his way next to Olivia. Using a toothpick, he stabbed a chunk and popped the sweet fruit in his mouth. "Hmm, this is good."

"We should buy some for the house."

"You got it."

"You're so cute," he whispered, then kissed her cheek.

Olivia lifted her leg, and crossed it over his. "You're cuter." She upped the ante and kissed his juicy lips. "I like this shirt on you."

Fitz peered at his pink gingham dress shirt. "This old thing? I'm glad. I'll keep it."

"Look at the newlyweds. Still looking adorable," Andrew observed.

She clicked on an app. "Let's take a selfie."

"Okie dokie, babe."

They took a few pictures, but Olivia found her favorite to use for a new screensaver. Her tongue sticking out, while Fitz was super close to her, couldn't see one of his eyes. But he looked content. With the Washington sky behind them.

Just a beautiful evening.

Teddy was doing fairly well adjusting to the second grade. A few of his buddies from his previous class were with him in Mrs. Sullivan's group. The family was working on effective tools to help him feel comfortable with new ideas. Fitz and Olivia decided therapy would continue to benefit Teddy. With the changes after the custody hearing, the pregnancy, and school, they wanted to give him the best advantage.

As much as her favorite boy lavished so much affection on her, at times Olivia didn't think she was doing enough to be the best Mommy Liv. She had wonderful friends who were also mothers, so gleaning from their wisdom helped.

On a chilly Wednesday, Olivia was home early, working on an afternoon snack. The boys would be arriving soon. When Gigi started yapping and running to the front door, that was time.

Olivia finished, and greeted them. "Hi, baby bear!"

Teddy smiled, but she immediately noticed he wasn't his bubbly self. He must have been tired, after his busy school day.

"How was your day?"

"It was fine."

Olivia kissed the top of his head. "Did you have art today?"

"No."

"Drats. After you wash your hands, your snack is on the island."

Fitz returned to the living room, and gave Olivia a kiss. "Hello, beautiful."

"Hi. Doing work later?"

"I'll review a brief. Want to join me?"

"Negative," Olivia stated, "I have to edit a contract myself."

Teddy returned, and got in his seat, quietly munching his animal crackers.

Fitz told Olivia briefly that their son wasn't talkative on the car ride home. That was alarming; he always gabbed about school or a show he enjoyed.

The baby was kicking more; Olivia pressed her left hand to her stomach, in awe. "Hey, does anyone want to feel some kicks?"

Teddy shook his head. He always wanted to participate in sibling time. Later, he walked up to her and laid his head on her lap.

"Honey? Is everything okay?"

"I don't know," he softly answered.

Olivia ran her fingers through his chestnut hair. "Baby boy, you know you can tell me if something is wrong."

"Is it okay if I go play now in my room now?"

"Of course."

Fitz almost said something, but Olivia touched his knee, shaking her head.

A little while later, Olivia knocked on his door.

"Teddy?"

"Yes?"

"I'm making your favorite for dinner. Ravioli and broccoli."

Sitting on the floor with legos sprawled all over, he looked at her blankly. "Oh, okay."

An unusual bored response threw Olivia off. Did something happen? She kneeled to cautiously draw circles on his back. "Teddy, are you okay?"

"Yes…can we talk later?"

Olivia's heart sank. The look in his eyes — hurt her soul.

"Sure thing. I'll call you when dinner's ready."

Teddy answered, "Thank you."

Fitz was waiting at the foot of the stars, when she descended.

"Hey, what's wrong?"

Olivia's lip began to quiver.

"Baby."

"I feel like shit. I thought I was doing this right. He doesn't even want to talk to me. He's not telling me what's wrong."

Fitz kissed her sudden wet cheeks. "Everything is going to be okay. He probaby had a crappy day. We can talk to him later. I didn't get an email from his teacher, so I don't know. We are still working through this. Let's give him time."

Dinner was quiet. Teddy ate, barely talking.

"Buddy, tell us about your day."

With a heavy sigh, he blurted out, "Kids at school are mean and I wish I could make them disappear sometimes."

Fitz was not expecting that kind of answer. "What?"

"Yeah. School isn't fun anymore."

Olivia placed her silverware down. "Did someone hurt your feelings?"

They waited for Teddy to say something, but instead, his eyes welled with tears.

"I think you'll be mad at me."

"No, we won't," she quickly said, "We just want to help you."

Teddy lowered his head and began to cry.

Fitz was shocked; usually there would be big hints dropped before Teddy released frustrations through crying.

"Teddy. Baby," he rubbed the top of his hand. "What's wrong?"

Only getting louder, Teddy got out of his seat and collapsed against Fitz.

"Okay, let's go upstairs."

Fitz lifted Teddy and mouthed, "I'll be back" to Olivia, and went upstairs.

Everything felt so weird. After dinner, Olivia retreated to her room, trying to navigate her emotions. It was what she feared. Something must have happened to make Teddy not want to talk to her. She was upset with herself for overreacting, but what else could she do? She wanted to respect his wishes for space.

About one hour later, Fitz met her in the bedroom. He gave her a massage and cuddled with her as she cried.

"Baby," he gently spoke, "He heard some conflicting information about new siblings and he's feeling bad. He's going to talk to you when he's ready. You did nothing wrong."

Soon after, he plopped into bed, kissed Olivia goodnight and fell fast asleep.

Not long after that, she heard a soft knock on the door.

"Come in."

Teddy entered, in his flannel PJs.

"Hi."

"Hey, baby. Can't sleep?"

Teddy shook his head, toy bear tucked under his arm.

Olivia moved a pillow so he could have space. "Wanna come up here?"

Snuggling into her side, Teddy's shaky breathing evened out.

"Feel better?"

A quiet "Yes" followed. His hand lazily rubbing Olivia's belly.

"You know what," she whispered, holding him tight.

"What?"

"I love you."

"I love you too," he echoed, but in a small voice.

"Did you have a bad day? Wanna talk about it?"

Teddy mumbled, "My friend told me that once the baby gets here, you're going to forget about me."

The answer broke Olivia's heart; all she wanted to do is hug and kiss him, make all those negative thoughts disappear.

"Who said this?"

She did her best to stay calm, but Teddy could hear the frustration in her voice.

"I don't think it matters. I don't want you to be mad at them. But Ian was talking about his little brother. And he felt lonely and he thinks that's what is going to happen to me. I didn't want to yell at him, but I didn't want to cry either. Not yet. That hurt my feelings. Because I'm excited about the baby and I can't wait for him or her to get here. But like, those words made me sad."

"Did you know that not every family is the same?"

"Yeah."

Olivia nodded. "Mmhmm, and everytime a family gets a new baby, or a new family member, everyone feels different things."

Teddy was holding on to his bear tightly. "Oh...I see."

She continued, "So, if you feel jealous or scared, that's okay. I understand, but your Daddy and I will never forget you. You're still going to be my favorite baby boy."

"Really?"

Olivia beamed, "Yes! You loved me and made me feel special before I became a part of our family. No one has ever called me Livia before."

"Are you still going to love me when the baby is here?"

"So much. Without a doubt. Always."

"You promise?"

"With all my heart."

"Cuddles?"

"Always. Thank you for telling me."

"I'm sorry for being mean. I was scared. I thought you were going to forget about me and love me less."

Olivia cradled him, his growing legs draping over the bed. "I understand. I feel like that sometimes. It's new. We are all going to learn and figure out how this goes. My love for you will not decrease. You're so special to me."

His head was nestled on her chest.

"I love you, Mommy."

"I love you so much, Teddy. Wanna stay?"

Teddy smiled. He slid off the bed and tiptoed around to the other side. "Daddy?"

Two grunts from Fitz.

He rubbed his nose on his father's shoulder.

"Hmm?!"

"Hi, Daddy."

"Te-Teddy. What's wrong?"

"Can you move over, please?"

With a sweet request, how could anyone deny it?

"Why?"

Amused, Olivia tapped Fitz's shoulder.

With one eye open, he asked, "Liv?"

"We have company tonight."

Remembering too well of the nights when Teddy would crawl or run into the bed, Fitz scooted over towards the edge, to give Teddy space in between.

"Thank you," he whsipered, kissing Fitz's forehead.

"Daddy?"

"Mmhmm," his father's muffled reply.

"Can I take off my clothes too? I see you're just in your shorts."

"If you're feeling hot, that fine."

"You're hot? Do you have a fever?"

Fitz chuckled, smoothing back his now fluffy curls. "Ha, no. I just feel more comfortable this way."

Teddy laughed too. He moved closer to Olivia. "Is it okay if I'm right next to you?"

"Yeah. But I don't get comfy anymore, I'll gently move away."

Smiling, he rolled over to Fitz. "Daddy. I'm being your koala. For now."

"Okay," Fitz said, still trying to not wake up fully.

The Grants were on their way to another doctor's appointment. But this time, there was a specific agenda.

"I don't want to be surprised anymore," Olivia stated while checking her phone.

"Great! What do you think?"

She made a "sealed lips" gesture. "Nope. I'm not telling you. You?"

"I have an idea. But I don't want to sound goofy."

Olivia patted his hand. "That's fine, love."

It was her 25th week appointment, and once again her doctor had asked if she wanted to find out the gender. It was amazing she waited this long. Also, it made sense to get their answer while Teddy was in attendance. They opted for a 2 o'clock slot, so they could pick up him early from school, and celebrate aftewards. Little Grant was thrilled to find out.

After getting introduced to Dr. Jacobs, he closed his eyes so Olivia could get settled on the exam table.

Teddy was curious about everything. Why was the ultrasound not in color like a television screen? Does it hurt to take the baby's picture? What's with that weird skeleton insides picture of a Mom's tummy on the wall?

Olivia kept her eyes towards the ceiling, trying not to laugh or cry, because Teddy's questions were just too sweet.

"Okay, we're going to check the baby's heartbeat. Ready to hear?"

"Yeah," he exclaimed, while sitting on Fitz's lap. "This is great."

Then, the big moment arrived. Dr. Jacobs was starting to set up the ultrasound machine, and applied the gel to the transducer.

"Ugh! What's that slime?"

"It's gel," Dr. Jacobs sweetly replied. "It helps us see the baby."

Teddy made an "O" with his mouth. "Okay. I'll just sit here and wait."

Finally, the image appeared. "Teddy, what do you think?"

He shrugged, "I don't know! It's a baby in there. A big head. Like mine!"

Fitz stood so he could be next to Olivia.

Dr. Jacobs tapped on the keyboard. "Okay, you're certain, Olivia?"

"Yes," she agreed, looking at the screen. "I want to know." She quickly turned to Fitz — he was staring while holding on to her hand.

"Okay, family... let's see. Oh, baby is moving a bit. Ahh, there we go... The score is tied. You're having a little girl!"

Olivia burst into tears. Fitz cheered before kissing her.

"I knew it."

Teddy was jumping in his seat, with the biggest toothy smile.

"Yes! This is going to be amazing. I am going to have a little sister! This is the best news ever! Thanks, Dr. Jacobs for checking for us. Wait, how do you know? She doesn't have a penis, right?"

Olivia snorted, while Fitz closed his eyes. Their child always the best time to say the most honest thing ever. In public.

All Dr. Jacobs could do was smile and agree, "That is correct, Teddy."

He nodded in satisfaction. "I knew it. Are we able to tell people, Mommy?"

"We will," Olivia commented, sitting up. "Let's find a fun way to do it."

After another five minutes of updates and suggestions, Dr. Jacobs said goodbye, and the family prepared to leave. On the car ride home, Olivia was elated to know, and was tickled to have a little miss in the house.

She asked, "How did you know?"

"I just knew," Fitz said.

"Really?"

"Yeah," he tapped on the steering wheel, with a shit-eating grin on his face. "I was hoping for a girl."

Hope you liked. Is it what you thought? Let me know.

Thanks, Gigi, for your constant encouragement.

xo