On a warm summer's evening as Olivia left her apartment and made her way to her car she received a phone call.
"Hey Abby." She greeted casually as she got in behind the wheel.
"Liv hey, join Quinn and I for cocktails at Rocco's."
"Tonight?"
"Uh-huh."
"Wait, I thought that you were going to be spending the evening at your sister's place?"
"I was but plans changed due to some emergency at her work."
"Oh I see but anyhow, about tonight, unfortunately I won't be able to join you guys. I already have plans. I'm actually in the car right now about leave."
"Seriously? Liv come on!"
"Sorry Abby, I promise I'll make it up to you though."
"He's back in town isn't he?"
"Yes and although you're the greatest friend a girl can have, I've missed my other best friend."
"See this is why you can't have two best friends because now I feel like he's stealing you away from me and I want to hate him for that."
"He's not. But c'mon Abbs, he's been gone for almost a month."
"Right, so shouldn't he be spending some time reuniting with his boo instead of hanging out with you? ...No offense."
"She'll probably be joining us." Liv shrugged as if Abby could she her.
"Whatever, just tell him that next time I want to spend time with my Liv he better back down."
"I will give him the message. You girls have fun okay?"
"Sure. You too."
"Bye Abby."
"G'bye Liv."
Some time later Olivia scanned the room as she walked into Monroe's, a hot spot pub and grill.
A wide smile took over her face when she finally spotted him.
He stood up with a smile matching hers as he waited for her to reach their table.
Liv took a short jog towards the table and threw her arms around him.
After a lengthy hug he pulled out her chair as they got seated.
"You seem extremely happy to see me. Almost as if I'm your only friend." He smirked after the humourous remark.
"Hey! I've missed you, okay."
"I wasn't even away for that long and it's not like we didn't text or call each other while I was away."
"Fitzgerald Thomas Grant are you saying you didn't miss me? Not even a little bit?" Liv asked playfully, squinting her eyes.
"Wellll.."
"You're such an asshole."
The annoyed frown on her face made him laugh. "I'm kidding, I'm kidding. Of course I've missed you Livvie. How was things here during my absence?"
"Nothing exciting happened. And, how was Colorado? Did you enjoy getting to spend a few days with your family?"
"Colorado was good and yeah, being home was nice. My mom was super sad when I left. Imagine that, I'm a grown 35 year old man and she still treats me like I'm 13 sometimes." He chortled.
"Hey you're still her baby no matter how old and ugly you are."
"Ugly??"
"Okay maybe not ugly but you get what I'm saying. Did you order yet because I'm starving."
"No I was waiting for you to get here. We both know you're not the most punctual person in the world." He replied and received a glare from Liv.
"I'm literally always on time. You on the other hand. ." She commented.
While scanning through the open menu in her hands Olivia peered over at Fitz. "How's Leah? Will she be joining us later on?"
"She's fine and no, it's just us tonight." He answered quick and short.
"Oh.. Is everything okay with you guys?"
"Yeah of course everything's fine it's just.." He paused to release a deep sigh. "She knew that I was coming back today and I expected us to spend some quality time together and get re-acquinted but instead she ran off to Las Vegas with her sister to shoot an ad for their new make-up line."
"Your girl is a model and that includes lots of traveling. This is not new information. You knew her schedule would be unpredictable."
"I know but the whole planning and scheduling to see each other is getting exhausting."
"That's on you. She's young and her career is just taking off, you either stick it out or put an end to the relationship."
"This is why it's just easier to keep things light and simple and not putting a label on it."
Liv snorted laughter. "That's sad."
"Livvie you know me. You know the whole marriage and kids thing isn't such a want for me. I mean yes of course I wanna find someone great and really fall in love and spend forever with her but I just don't believe in marriage. Marriage just brings nasty arguments, complications and unnecessary drama that didn't even exist before. I just want to be happy and content with my life. Do you really need a piece of paper to show someone how much you love them?"
"Not believing in marriage and not wanting to have kids are two way different things wouldn't you say?"
Fitz just shrugged his shoulders. "Not really. Don't people get married to then start a family and have the perfect life or whatever?"
"Okay let's just agree that not everyone wants the same things in life. Now enough about that, why don't you tell me more about your time in Colorado and being with your fam."
Fitz's family were in the transport and logistics business. His grandfather started it back in the day with one truck. It was a small but efficient business. Today it's one of the most reliable transportation services around the U.S.
They expanded gradually and six years ago Fitz was put in charge of managing the offices and warehouse in Philadelphia.
His move to Philly and being shown around by a friend was how he met Olivia. His friend used to date one of Liv's friends and so they ended up moving in the same circle.
The two of them just hit it off from the get-go.
Everyone found it extremely odd that two people could get along so quick and easily. For outsiders their chemistry was undeniably fierce.
...And even though they find a safe space in each other and just complement each other on every level, they're relationship was nothing more than platonic.
"What's there to tell? I was at head office most of the time talking shop. We're working on a few new things which will hopefully get us a couple of big contracts and we're expanding our learnership programmes."
"So business is good."
The waitress approached their table with a pleasant smile. "You two ready to order?"
"Yes."
When the food arrived Olivia almost cheered at the sight. Her mouth was watering.
"You didn't tell me about your family though."
"Everyone's doing really good. Mom and Dad are happy and healthy. Oh and big news, my little brother finally grew some balls and bought an engagement ring for Laura."
"Darin is proposing!?"
"Yup." Fitz chuckled as he chewed his food.
"That is major! They've been together since high school, right?"
"Yes, high school sweethearts. That idiot should thank his lucky stars that Laura was so patient with him. It only took him eleven years to pop the question."
"Shut up, they're cute. I'm so happy for them."
"Yeah I bet mom and dad will be over the moon once they find out."
"Of course they will."
"Enough about that, how's things going between you and Logan?"
"You know damn well things aren't exactly 'going' anymore."
"Hey last time we talked about Logan you told me the two of you were going to try and work through your issues."
"Yeah no that didn't work because apparently it was more my issues than our issues."
"Logan said that?"
"Right to my face." Liv perched her lips into a half sad smile. "It's true though."
"Stop. You're not gonna sit here and blame yourself. I won't allow it."
"Then let's not talk about Logan anymore. Did you know that I could've went for cocktails with the girls but instead I chose to spend my evening with you? So you better make it worth it."
"Okay Pope. I'll order us a round of drinks, how about that?"
"Sounds good to me."
"You know if you want you could still meet up with your friends..?"
"No it's fine. I don't mind putting up with you for the rest of the night."
"How was your classes today?"
At the age of 27 Olivia was the proud owner of 'Bright Stars' a little dance studio for kids of all ages, toddlers to teenagers. Along with herself she had two other instructors working for her; Harrison and Quinn.
Olivia herself has been dancing since the age of six. Although it wasn't until high school that she began taking her dancing more seriously when she realized that it could turn into a career for her, and since then she never looked back.
Olivia attended the Philadelphia university of the arts where she majored in dance. After that she got signed up by a prominent performing arts company which took her on so many learning experiences all over the world.
Olivia loved it with all her heart. Performing was her escape - especially when her mother died - but soon after she decided that she wanted to slow down and be there for her father even though he pushed her to continue with her dancing.
Hence the dance studio. She wasn't planning on quitting dancing altogether. Another thing that influenced her decision was her long term life goal; she wanted to settle down and have a family.
"Just like every other day, a complete blast."
"Nice!"
After finishing their food and sitting in silence for a few minutes Fitz was the one to break the silence.
"You're good though right Livvie?" His voice was genuine and sincere and it almost made Olivia a little emotional.
"I'm good Fitz, seriously, don't worry about me."
He knew she was going through a challenging time with the breakup but also that she didn't want to address it.
"I'm here for you. Always and no matter what. I got you Liv."
"Thanks. That means a lot to me. You know.. I've been missing my mom a lot more lately."
"Mother's have a way of making everything better. And your mom was a lovely woman. I'm glad I had the chance to meet her. She was so soft-spoken and good-hearted."
The two friends share a tender smile.
When they finally capped off an enjoyable evening Fitz lead her outside to the parking lot.
"Get over here you." He pulled Olivia into his large frame and wrapped his arms securely around her as they stood outside by her car.
"I had fun tonight." She spoke into his shirt.
"Yeah me too."
Olivia tipped her head back to look into his face. "Next time will you let me pay for my own meal?"
"Not a chance ma'am." Fitz replied and Liv chuckled.
"Your girlfriend might think that I'm after your money."
"But we know better don't we?"
"Stop trying to be smart you fool." She laughed and stepped out of his embrace.
"Get home safe Miss Pope."
"You too. Goodnight Fitz."
"Night Livvie."
He watched until her car was down the road before he got into his own car and headed home.
Two days later Fitz showed up at Liv's apartment after work.
"Hey, did you cook?"
"No she didn't so you can turn right around and leave. Go to bed hungry for all I care." Abby answered from the couch. She wasn't serious, she just loved going back and forth with him.
Fitz strolled over to her. "Shit Abby, who ruined your day? Lighten up."
"Shut up."
"Awww.." He mocked her.
Meanwhile Olivia was in the kitchen heating up the food which she had kept for Fitz.
She always made extra because he'll swing by unexpectedly and be starving.
"Here you go." She handed him the plate.
"Ohhh man I love you. Thanks Livvie."
Liv took a seat next to Abby, folding her feet underneath her. "You're welcome."
"You're spoiling him Liv, that shit needs to stop."
"I spoil all my friends." Olivia replied, mindlessly running her fingers through her hair.
"Well your friend over here has a girlfriend who can spoil him. Oh wait, can she even cook?"
"Abby c'mon, don't be mean."
Laughingly Abby turned to Fitz, "You gotta stop dating these young chicks man. One of these days you won't be able to keep up with them."
"They're not even that young and I'm definitely not that old." He responded.
"Sure, whatever you say. Hey, I've been wondering..is bae cool with your friendship with Liv?"
"Uhh okay that's..random." Fitz said looking at her with a confused expression. "But to answer you, yes she is. Why?"
"Are you sure? 'Cause I know you guys have been together for a few months now, that's longer than all your past relationships combined.." Abby joked then went on, "..No but seriously though Fitz, no woman wants their man to have a girl best friend. That's a big problem in a relationship. In fact, we don't even want any woman within inches of our man."
Olivia waved her hand in the air drawing their attention to her. "Hellooo I'm an openly lesbian women. I doubt Leah is worried about me being around Fitz."
"Gay or not Liv, any girl would be alert if her man had a beautiful hot babe like yourself as a bestie. Leah might feel a little threatened but doesn't want to say it out loud." Abby said.
"Okay 'Team Leah'." Olivia mocked. "Trust me, there's no need for her to feel any type of way. Besides, men are gross, complicated, and they behave like a bunch of animals. Not my cup of tea."
Fitz let out a hearty laugh. "See? It's all good. Liv's my best friend and if a girl that I'm with can't accept our friendship, well then that's too bad."
"You're saying you'd choose your friendship with Liv over a girl?"
"Hundred percent."
"But what if it's the perfect girl and she's everything you've ever wanted in a woman?"
"If she was the perfect girl for me then she would be okay with Olivia. Besides, Liv's awesome, who wouldn't like her?"
"Okay lowkey; you two would've made a great couple, just so you know." Abby stated light-heartedly.
Liv gave Abby an amused glance. "Because we're best friends?"
"Just..your whole bond. You guys get each other and you share this amazing connection. Oh! And Fitz treats you better than he treats his own girlfriend."
"Eh, he's okay I guess. Also, you thinking of us as a couple is super weird."
"Ah well, maybe in another lifetime. Hey by the way, with everything that happened between you and Logan, do you think you'd still wanna go ahead with..you know--"
"I still wanna do it. Maybe not really soon but in the next year or so yeah, definitely."
"On your own?"
"Well Logan left so, yeah. She just wasn't ready for that kind of commitment."
"She seemed super eager at first."
"Having kids was always a dream of mine though. It's something I wanted and she just went along and for that I don't blame her. We were together for about three years and now looking back I feel like what we had was a foolish romance. I think we moved too quick. Our relationship became super serious, super fast, so it explains why she thought she was up for taking such a big step with me. Plus I think that maybe I got a little carried away. I'm not ready for a child at this particular moment in time. I should've thought it through. I was just a little over eager and overly excited with the idea of having a baby with Logan by my side thinking she's the one. Apart from everything that has happened, she really is a great girl with a good heart. And we had the best time together. It's a shame we didn't pace ourselves. But I'm not heartbroken, I'm actually quite happy that our paths had crossed."
"Yeah you're right, she was a very nice and kind person. A good partner for you. I just-- If you are planning on having a baby..on your own-- This whole process could be one hell of an emotional journey Liv. You might not get success on your first try and every other try after that is gonna cost you more and more money. I know you're up for it but it could be a long and frustrating road ahead."
"You're right and that's why I'm being thorough with my research and trying to find the best clinic. Be a little positive Abby."
"I just don't want you to rush this."
"I'm not. It's not like I'm planning on doing it in the next month."
"Did you say anything about it to your dad?"
"I did." Olivia chuckled, "He thinks I should just adopt."
"It's not the worst idea."
"Let me just give the insemination a go."
"Okay. And please don't think I'm against your decision, by all means you have my full support. It's just, you're my friend and your happiness and well being is important to me."
"Thank you Abby, really, that means so much. I love you."
"I love you too. Just one thing; if your future baby is a girl, 'Abby' should be on top of the list of baby names."
Fitz got up. "The food was really amazing Liv, thanks. I'm just gonna go clean this up."
"You're welcome. Hey bring me my popcorn when you're done." Liv hollered after him.
Once Abby heard the water running in the kitchen she turned to Liv. "Fitz was awfully quiet just now.."
"You know guys don't like to talk about stuff like that." Olivia answered.
Fitz walked in carrying the bag of popcorn and held it out in front of Liv. "You're sharing right?"
"Uh no, you just ate." She attempted to snatch the bag but he pulled it back.
"So? I still want some popcorn."
Abby laughed and got up. "I don't have time for another silly argument between you guys and it's getting late so I'm gonna head home."
"Wait I'll walk you out." Liv said hopping out of her seat.
"Bye Whelan." Fitz called out.
"Bye Fitzgerald."
When Liv returned from saying goodbye to Abby she found Fitz in front of the tv, munching away on her snack.
"You're kidding me right?"
He looked up at her with pure innocence. "What?"
"Please hand over my popcorn."
"Fine."
Liv ruffled his hair as she plopped down next to him. "Good boy."
"What are you cooking tomorrow?"
"You literally just ate and you're already thinking about your next meal. How about you start using those big ass hands of yours and learn how to cook?"
"I distinctively remember asking you to teach me how to put some simple meals together but you refused."
"Liar. I didn't refuse. I just didn't have time and neither do you. You're running a company and you've got a girlfriend. You don't have time for cooking lessons."
"I'll make time. When can we start then?"
"I'll let you know but we're doing it at your place."
"Why?"
"I'm not taking the risk of you possibly burning down my kitchen."
"Oh come on I'm sure it won't be that bad. I can use a stove."
"Your place. Deal or no deal." Liv replied with conviction.
"Fine. Deal."
They shifted their focus to the tv screen as they shared the bag of popcorn.
After a few minutes Olivia leaned into his side and Fitz draped his arm around her while his head unconsciously rested on top of hers.
"When are you going home?" Her voice was low and content, showing signs of tiredness.
"Are you kicking me out?"
"No but I wanna go to bed soon. I had a long day."
He stayed silent for a minute.
"Hey Liv?"
"M'yeah?"
"Are you sure about..you know.. having a baby?"
"I am."
"It's a lot."
"I'm not getting younger Fitz. With insemination..hell even a normal pregnancy your age plays a big role."
"You're only 27 though."
"But I get older every year and in a year and half, or maybe two years, I want to be able to carry a child without complications. Look Fitz you have your life goals and I have mine and obviously it's way different. I want this. I want someone to live for and to love, unapologetically."
"I get it.."
"Don't you think I'm ready for this, to be a mom?"
"Actually I think you'll make a wonderful mom Olivia. You've got so much love to give. . that is going to be one happy child."
"So I have your support?" She asked as they're focus remained on the tv screen.
"You do."
Olivia sat up and looked Fitz in the eye. "Thank you. Having a friend like you along the way will certainly make everything a lot easier."
"You can always rely on me Livvie, you know that."
With a heartfelt smile she leaned in to give him a hug. "I love you Grant."
"I love you more, no backsies."
Olivia shook with laughter. "Jeez what are you, a ten year old girl?"
"Shut up."
Minutes later Liv went to see Fitz off at the door.
"Shrimp linguine."
"What?"
"Tomorrow night's dinner."
Fitz grinned. "You can bet that I'll be here."
"Of course. Goodnight Grant."
"Goodnight Liv, see you tomorrow."