I slammed the door just as quickly as I'd opened it before processing what had just happened. Olivia was already moving up the stairs and I could tell that she was anxious knowing that it was my mother at the door. I moved to look through the peep hole and froze at the sight of my mother bundled up in her winter coat on the other side of the door.

"Fitzgerald Thomas, open this damn door."

Shit. Shit. Shit!

Yes it was Christmas Eve but we had a plan! Of course she did her own thing after completely agreeing to it. It was so damn typical of her.

There was no way in hell I could ignore her. She knew I was home and wouldn't quit until I opened the door for her.

"Ma?"

I said gulping as I opened the door.

"Don't Ma me! Give me a hug and a Merry Christmas!"

She stepped towards me and engulfed me in a hug before she pulled back and scanned the living room as though this visit was anything but unexpected.

"Looks like you really put your all into celebrating this year son. I barely have to do anymore decorating. Is your old Mama rubbing off on you?"

She really was playing dumb.

She sent me a look before she pushed her way past me and walked into the living room, leaving me no choice but to close the door behind her and follow her footsteps. I knew she was surprised that CJ was not answering the door with me, but I could imagine my daughter being occupied with her new favorite person at the moment. I could see it in her eyes that she was on a mission and before she went near the stairs, we needed to have a conversation. One I had been putting off for a long time.

"Ma I need to talk to you about something really important."

She looked at me with questioning eyes before she realized how serious I was. I watched as she sat her duffel bag down at the foot of the steps before she walked into the kitchen and got two mugs out. She sat a cup in front of me before she filled hers with water and warmed it up in the microwave.

"Get yourself some coffee son. You look like you're gonna need it."

I obeyed and made myself a cup of instant coffee and smiled when my mother pulled out a tea bag from her purse to place in the mug. Somethings would never change.

"Alright Thomas, spit it out."

"I met someone."

"And grass is green and babies shit black when they're first born."

"Ma."

"Tell me something I don't know. I know you've met someone. You think I was born yesterday? I know you've met someone Thomas. You've sent my granddaughter to my house in the past three months more than you ever have in her entire lifetime. The only reason you would be sending her to me this often is if you've met someone and I don't mean some butt call.."

"Booty call" I said correcting her just because her saying 'butt call' was annoying as hell.

"Booty call, whatever. I know whoever you've met isn't some booty call and that it must be something serious. Besides, my granddaughter goes mute anytime I bring up anything that could lead to a conversation of what you have been up to. All I'll say is that I expect honesty as usual and that I will step in if I need to."

"Step in?"

"Meaning if you're gonna start thinking with the head in between your legs instead of the one on your neck, and my granddaughter is the one suffering, then I will step in. So Thomas, speak up now about this mystery someone that you met."

"I met her a few months ago."

"And where did you meet her? Don't be short with me son, I want details before I go get my granddaughter and make her spill the beans."

I felt torn. I knew my mother wasn't kidding but I also knew telling her the outright truth wouldn't go well. She'd never give Olivia a chance if she knew right away what her situation was. I just needed her to stay with us for a short time and watch her.

"Ma," I began taking a deep breath and staring at her. I needed her to know I was being serious. "Before all that, before I start explaining anything, just be here with us?"

"Be here?"

"Yes. No deep personal questions, and no prying and digging, just be here and watch them."

"CJ and her or you and her?"

I sighed and ran my fingers through my hair before I glanced towards the steps. I could hear the two of them upstairs together supposedly picking out an outfit for CJ to wear for the day. I just needed her to see it all.

"All of the above. Will you please? Do this for me, Ma."

I held my breath until I saw her remove her purse from her shoulder and hook it onto the back of the chair then nod her head.

"Let's see whatcha got, son."

I smiled gratefully and held up a single finger, indicating for her to wait there. I moved up the stairs quickly to see if the two of them had made any progress on dressing my daughter.

"Sorry, we're almost done." Olivia said apologetically.

"You're fine. Ceej, grandma is here and she's gonna spend some time with us today. So speed it up okay?"

I saw the fear in Olivia's eyes through the small smile she sent me and I grabbed her hand before squeezing it. CJ continued to play the eenie meanie mo game while choosing between the selection of shirts laid out on her bed and I took the opportunity and pulled Olivia into a standing position so I could hug her.

She must've needed one as much as I did and her arms wrapped around me tightly, clearly seeking comfort.

"I told her that I wouldn't answer any of her questions until later. I told her to not pry."

"I'm still scared."

Her whispering that in my ear broke my heart. If meeting and being around my mother brought this type of fear on, I could only imagine how the next few months would be for her. For us.

"Just be you, Livvie. She'll see exactly what I see."

Liv POV

She was tall. I immediately saw where Fitz got his height from and also his eyes. His mother was beautiful and I could honestly imagine her as one of those gorgeous nurses during the war that any soldier would fall for. I followed Fitz and CJ down the stairs slowly, one of my hands clasped tightly with his. When we reached the bottom of the steps, CJ removed his hand and grabbed a hold of mine before taking me over to her grandmother.

"Grandma, this is Livia. She's my friend and she's Daddy's friend too. Livia, this is Daddy's, Mommy."

The older woman stood up and reached out a hand to shake mine before saying it was nice to finally meet me.

"It's nice to meet you too, Mrs. Grant."

"Just call me Lillian. It's good to finally meet you. I wish I could say that I've heard so much about you, but I think silence speaks louder than words. I look forward to getting to know you."

I smiled and let out a breath I hadn't realized I was holding.

"How about I make some breakfast for us all?"

I nodded at Fitz's suggestion and CJ tugged on my arm to follow her into the kitchen. Clearly we were all cooking together.

CJ stayed mostly by my side throughout the three of us cooking breakfast together. It was me she chose to help her make pancakes and it was me she asked to make her cup of hot chocolate.

"Maybe I can make everyone some hot chocolate?" I suggested hopefully.

"Can you show Grandma the special way we make it, Livia? The second way you showeded us."

"Showed, Ceej" Fitz corrected but CJ paid him no mind.

"Would you like some help, Olivia?"

Before I could respond, CJ was frowning in protest.

"But I always help Livia make it, Grandma."

I cringed as she lifted her arms up so I could help up onto 'her spot'. I wanted Lillian to like me, and CJ being territorial might not work in my favor too much. What if she thought I was a bad influence or trying to take some place in CJ's life?

"Well I can see my help isn't needed." Lillian responded, smiling as she sat on a stool at the island.

"I'm sorry..." I trailed off, unsure of what I was really apologizing for, but I somehow felt the need to.

"Oh sweetie, don't apologize. I'm used to this one here getting territorial when it comes to certain things."

I smiled shyly before obliging in CJ's waving arms and lifted her up and plopping her on the counter. I walked towards the pantry and brought over the bar of white chocolate and milk chocolate.

"Alright, remember to break it into small, teeny, tiny pieces."

I placed the bars into a zip lock bag and helped her pound the bar into smaller pieces.

"Fitz can you start heating the milk up?"

"Yea"

CJ continued to pound on the bars and I moved to grab four mugs from the cabinet, then stopped myself. I never asked if Lillian actually wanted any.

"Would you like a cup?"

"Of course I would."

I nodded and moved towards the rapidly warming milk before giving CJ a thumbs up that she had done a great job.

"Alright Ceej, now you stir it slowly while I pour it in."

She moved to her knees on the counter and I handed her the extra long soft spatula and helped her begin a slow stir, then started putting the chocolate in.

Fitz walked over and handed me the bag of crushed peppermint we'd been using throughout the week and I slowly poured a good portion inside.

When it was finished, Fitz helped me pour each of us a mug full of the warm treat and I held my breath wondering if she was enjoying it.

"It's not too much peppermint in it, is it? It's always trial and error with that." I was fidgeting and Fitz grabbed a hold of my hands and brought them to his lips boldly.

"It's delicious, Olivia. I've never tried it this way before and I don't see me drinking it any other way from now on." She winked at me, earning a bashful smile from me.

Whew.

We spent the rest of the next hour eating breakfast and talking about Santa coming tonight to leave all the presents. Although CJ didn't believe in Santa, Fitz still liked to make it magical for her with the prospect of toys all of a sudden being under the tree in the morning. The talk about presents reminded CJ that she still needed to wrap the gifts she had for everyone. I looked over to Fitz who sent me a slight nod, then announced that it was time to clean up before wrapping gifts.

Breakfast had gone well and I felt my breathing return to normal. I wasn't completely comfortable with Lillian seemingly watching my every move, but I wasn't terrified either. She helped us clean the kitchen, and once we were done, CJ was on a mission.

"Okay, present time!"

"Alright Sugar, let's get this started!" Lillian stood up and smiled towards CJ.

"Livia's gonna help me, Grandma! We can do it. You stay with Daddy."

She pulled me up the stairs behind her and I could only send Lillian and Fitz an apologetic smile before they were out of eyesight.

Lillian POV

"She gets that from me, you know."

"Oh believe me, I know. It's why you can't be offended, she learned that..."

"Sassiness?" I filled in.

"I was thinking of words like obnoxiousness, annoyance, rudeness..."

"You're not too big Thomas, you better watch yourself."

"Yes ma'am."

He always responded well to my threats.

"Why don't you go up there and spy on them."

"Spy on them?" I asked as though the thought wasn't already brewing.

"You know you want to, Ma. I can promise you they're so wrapped up in each other they won't notice you're there."

I didn't need his permission but I was glad my son could tell I was hesitant to go upstairs and eavesdrop.

I did as he said and quietly crept up the steps and stood at the door that wasn't completely shut.

"My Daddy is gonna like it, right? My teacher said because there's a poem with it, that it's not a baby gift."

"Your Dad is gonna love this. He's gonna always love anything you give him and he's gonna love anything you write out for him even more."

"Why even more."

I watched CJ stop folding the wrapping paper over the square item and look at Olivia with wide eyes.

"Because it came from your heart, right? It's words you really mean?"

CJ nodded her head as her eyes set wide and serious.

"Your Daddy will also treasure everything you write to him. You're the most important person in his life, so what you say matters the most to him. I know he's gonna love it so much."

I watched my granddaughter remove her hands from the present and climb into Olivia's lap and hug her neck tightly. She pulled back and kissed her cheek softly and just as quickly turned herself in her lap and resumed wrapping the present.

"Livia?"

"Yea, sweetie?"

"Are you gonna stay with us and open presents for Christmas in the morning? Daddy said so."

"I am sweetie, I promise I'll be here to spend Christmas with you guys."

Olivia wrapped her arms around CJ's waist, then brought her lips to the top of her head. She stayed that way for longer than I expected and eventually CJ turned in her arms to hug her neck again.

"Good because I have a Christmas present for you. I hope you like it."

"I'm going to love it so much, CJ because it's from you."

This was a new side of my granddaughter I had never seen before. I wasn't sure what I was seeing or what word I could use to describe it, but I could see what my son was seeing. I could see that whatever baggage Olivia brought with her, my son was more than willing to carry the load with her.

Fitz POV

"So?"

"I need to know what's wrong with her, son."

"There's nothing wrong with her, Ma."

"You know what I mean Fitzgerald."

I sighed and ran my fingers through my hair. My mom had come downstairs finally and I was anxious to hear her thoughts. She had a look on her face and I could tell she had fallen for the two of them just as hard as I had.

"You tell me what you thought first then we can talk about why you should be worried."

"They care a great deal about each other."

"Care?" I had to interrupt her at that word. I didn't want to get upset, but she wasn't being honest with herself.

"They love each other but I'm going to use the word care right now because I want to. She gravitates towards her, and she looks to her for affirmation and approval and it scares me. How will this all end? When will it end? Is Olivia here to stay? I do expect answers, son."

"I know. There's a lot I need to explain and I guess I need to first say that I'm preparing a case to defend Olivia once it goes to trial."

"Trial? What's she on trial for exactly? Do you have a criminal in your home, Fitzgerald?"

"Ma, she's not..."

"Fitz?"

I stopped short when I heard Olivia's voice come from behind us, and I turned to see her fidgeting with her hands. She had given into the nervous habit more today than she had in the past few weeks.

"Do you mind if I speak with your mom? I think I owe it to her to explain what's going on."

There was no way in hell I would leave my mother alone to interrogate Olivia. Wasn't happening.

"CJ wants you to help her wrap my present and said I needed to leave the room anyway."

"Why don't you just wait till I'm..."

"Fitz, you don't need to protect me from your mom. She wants the best for both of you. I want to answer any questions that she has."

"Fitzgerald, go upstairs and leave us be." The finality in my mother's voice drove me crazy but I listened.

I took a deep breath and moved from my spot across from my mother. I walked towards Olivia and boldly kissed her lips softly, noticing her eyes grow wide at my forwardness. I pulled back just as quickly and whispered 'I love you' in her ear before taking the steps two at a time.

Liv POV

I didn't want to cry. Tears would make it seem as though I'm trying to soften her up, when in reality, the tears coating my eyes were a product of my fear. Fear of judgement. Fear of her not believing me. Fear of rejection. I sat down on the seat Fitz had been occupying and finally met Lillian's eyes.

They showed pity, curiosity and a hint of maybe understanding. She stood up and moved towards her purse that still hung on the banister. I began to play with my fingers as I heard her move back into the kitchen, more shuffling following. It was just seconds later when a mug was placed in front of me. There was a tea bag floating at the top of the steaming water and I finally met her eyes again and smiled in thanks.

"Start from the beginning, hun."

I began to tell her the same story I told Fitz. My father cherishing me as a young child, then growing distant. Purposely distancing myself from him when I learned what his life really was about. Then I told her of him getting sick and me not being able to leave him to die alone. The tears did fall when I spoke of everything that happened afterwards. The simple meeting that should have been me signing away my father's assets to whoever wanted them, that instead turned into me being a part of it all. Being forced to watch men get tortured unless I followed rules, being abused and mistreated in every way except for physically and sexually. When I finally told her about the final bank job I'd been forced to participate in, I broke down and she wrapped her arms around me.

Lillian was warm and comfortable, different from Fitz and it was a feeling I hadn't felt in years. I couldn't remember the last time I was comforted in such a manner. A feminine touch. I couldn't remember the last female that hugged me, nor that would hug me anytime soon, so I savored it.

"I left before my trial. They bailed me out, but I knew they'd kill me before they let me on the stand to testify. I would've never lied for them and they knew it. The only person I could trust helped me get away. He got me a car and I just left."

Lillian pushed the mug into my hand when my voice cracked. Sobbing had turned my throat raw and the tea helped a lot.

"When you left, how did you end up here? Was it on purpose, or..."

She trailed off and once I swallowed another sip, I began to recall the night in question.

"I had been driving for...a day maybe? I'm not really sure, but I was tired. I had barely eaten anything and just wanted to get as far north as I could, but I crashed my car on the parkway back there. It was late and I was able to get out I guess but I don't remember much of it. I suppose I stumbled into the side of the complex and I guess I ended up in the backyard because the next thing I know, I'm waking up to Fitz hovering over me bandaging me up."

"I'll bet that was creepy as hell."

I laughed loudly and I'm pretty sure by the look on her face, that's what she was going for.

"It really was but he... I don't know. He told me everything he was doing and kept me calm and somehow I wasn't afraid of him. I was afraid of everything else, of stopping, of being found, but not of him."

"My granddaughter taught him that. She brought out a side of him I never thought I'd be see."

"I told him he was an idiot for keeping me here while he had a child to care for and it wasn't as though he let me see her or anything, she just.."

"Found a way to learn everything about you?"

I smiled and nodded. She knew CJ well.

"Understatement. She just kept watching me, and sneaking into the office where I was. I had told Fitz that my name was Nicole but when she snuck into the room and asked me... I just couldn't lie to her."

"She has a way about making people open up."

"She really does. She asked me if I could make her breakfast and for some reason I said yes. When I finally explained everything to Fitz, he didn't run. I thought he was a careless idiot for not running but... it felt good to not have someone ... I'm not sure what the right word is... abandon me? Someone that you could tell your problems to and they give you their word that you won't have to bare it alone."

The tears were back, except this time they streamed freely down my cheeks and I had no plans to stop them.

"For the first time in a long time, I didn't feel so alone and it was nice. It was selfish and stupid to allow him to be there for me but I just couldn't walk away. And as much as I want to, I still can't."

I was sobbing by then and I didn't even care. Besides Fitz, I had no one to talk to and it felt good to speak to someone besides him about everything. Huck would listen to anything I needed to say, but he wasn't the talking type by any means. Sometimes I just needed to speak to someone and have them talk back, giving me their two cents and helping me realize that I wasn't crazy.

"Honey, it sounds like you've had the toughest year and there's still plenty of uphill road to trot."

I nodded my head in agreement and waited. I knew she wanted to say something but I had also given her so much information in the last ten minutes. She let go of me and we both reached for our cups of tea. I took several sips, waiting as the seconds passed agonizingly slow.

"When do you and Fitzgerald plan to take this to the police or judge or... I guess I want to know what your plan is?"

"To be honest, Fitz hasn't exactly told me everything but once the holidays pass, he's going to petition the courts to move the trial here if possible but it might not be possible. My arraignment was set for just three days after we were all bailed out."

"And how long ago was that?"

"Fourteen weeks ago."

She just stared at me. I knew she wasn't expecting that answer.

"What does he think will happen when you two come forward?"

"I'm not sure. That's something we're supposed to talk about while I'm here. I know this is a lot... it's too much and there's too much of a risk but,"

"But," Lillian began, cutting me off mid sentence. "My son isn't stupid. He might be thinking with two people in mind now, but I know he won't do anything if he knows it'll risk my grand-baby and that's what matters most. I'm happy you're here, Olivia. I can tell my son is completely in love with you and from the looks of today, I'd say the feeling is mutual for you as well."

I could only nod, not trusting my voice to be stable enough to respond.

"I love them both.. so much."

"I can see that. She loves you too, you know."

I shook my head, not wanting to agree with her. I could barely tolerate Fitz loving me, but CJ actually loving me was too much to comprehend. There was only one way she could love me and that was as a mother. I knew the feeling of loving a mother that all of a sudden vanished from my life and I couldn't put CJ through that.

"It's okay honey. Seeing you all today, together? I understand. I'm terrified and anxious about each next move that you both take but I understand and I'll be here to support you Olivia under two conditions."

"What are the conditions?" I could feel my heart hammering in my chest, not believing she wasn't throwing me out on the sidewalk and banishing me from her family's life.

"Don't make promises you can't keep."

I nodded before asking what the second condition was.

"Fight for them. Fight as hard as I know my son will fight for you. Fight for them both."

It was hours later and after CJ had all the gifts she had purchased for us wrapped and under the tree, the four of us built snowmen outside in the backyard. The snowmen were dressed impeccably with clothes Fitz had picked up from the local thrift store and there was a contest going on between Fitz and I and CJ and Lillian. CJ had insisted I be on her team but after Fitz guilt tripped the little girl about hogging me all day, she allowed me to be on his team and paired up with her grandmother. There was no unbiased judge, and we ended up declaring both teams, winners. Once CJ had done a victory dance, Fitz had thrown a large snowball at her, making her double over and instantly began to cry. Somehow Fitz knew she was faking and only smirked in our direction as we tended to her, therefore launching the girls vs. Fitz snowball fight.

We were soaked by the time we came inside and while Fitz worked on getting a fire started, Lillian helped CJ in the bath then got her dressed in her cozy pjs. I too took a hot shower and came back downstairs in a pair of warm leggings and a long sleeved t-shirt that I borrowed from Fitz. Once I was downstairs with CJ, both Fitz and Lillian went to shower and warm up their cold bones.

"Livia, do you think Santa knows that you're here so he can bring your presents to our house too?"

"I don't know CJ. I didn't ask him for anything this year so it's okay if he doesn't know that I'm here because I don't think he'd have anything for me."

We were both sitting on the stools in the kitchen, watching as fresh snow coated the backyard. You could barely make out all of our footprints from an hour ago. Physical proof might be gone, but that was a memory I'd have with me forever.

"You should always ask Santa for something. And Daddy says that even if you don't get what you want, it's probably because Santa had already picked out something special just for you. Maybe Santa already has something special just for you that he will bring you."

I smiled at her innocence and wondered what the holidays would be like when she didn't believe in Santa Claus. I wondered if I would still be a part of her life then and found myself hoping with everything in me, that I would.

"I think that Santa's gift for me this year was allowing me to be able to be here and spend time with your family."

"Even on our Thanksgiving trip?"

Her head rested on her arms against the counter and I could tell she was trying her best to hold it together. We had a full day and all the playing outside and running through the snow was catching up to her in perfect timing.

"Yep. I call that an early Christmas gift from Santa. That was one of the best trips I've ever been on."

"Where will we go next Thanksgiving? Can we drive to a different place again? Or go on a plane? I liked it! It was my best trip too!"

I had no clue what next year would look like for us, let alone next week. All I did know is that I wanted to be with this family for as long as they would let me.

"I'm not really sure sweetie, but I hope we get to spend it together."

"Me too."

I hadn't expected CJ to lean up and kiss my cheek but I smiled warmly at her and gave her one back before hugging her tightly to my side. She was easily one of the best people I knew.

"I hoped you have some kisses left for me."

We both turned at the sound of Fitz's voice behind us. He was looking directly at me, but CJ instantly moved to her knees and puckered her lips up at her father. Our eye contact halted and I watched in adoration as he moved to give CJ a kiss before lifting the small child into his arms and hugging her tight. Before the little girl could pull back, he began raining kisses all over her face and head, then moved to attack her neck in pretend bites.

"Daddy, stop!" She giggled loudly and began squirming in his arms to be let go. "Daddy I'm done with your kisses now! No more! Kiss Livia!" She got out between non-stop giggling.

I continued to watch them and stopped when I heard CJ's command. She'd never said anything of the sorts before except the night Fitz recorded her dreaming and sent the video to me. The way Fitz immediately stopped and set his gaze on me, I knew he was just as shocked at her request.

"You're right, I should give Livia kisses."

I shook my head as he sat CJ back on the stool and moved towards me, smirking the entire time.

"Fitz..."

"Yes Livia? I'm just following orders. At least one kiss will do, right Bug? Besides look where you're standing" he spoke referring to the tiny mistletoe taped to the ceiling.

It was as if he somehow knew CJ would be on his side and she nodded her head vigorously. There was a big grin on her face and her hands were over her mouth and peeking through her fingers at the two of us. I could tell she was eating this up.

Fitz moved closer and I raised my eyebrows at him in warning, letting him know that he needed to be good and not go overboard. CJ had not seen much affection between her father and I with the exception of kisses here and there and I didn't want him to change that right now. I was still living in a bit of fear that everything that could go wrong, would.

"I'll be good." He muttered before he was close enough to kiss the corner of my mouth. After the small kiss, he showed the other side of my mouth the same affection before his fingers suddenly dug into my side and he tickled me while peppering kisses all over my face.

"Get her Daddy!"

I laughed at CJ's cheering and pushed Fitz away as much as I could before he stopped.

"I leave you three alone for five minutes and this is what I find? Keep it G, now, my granddaughter doesn't know what this funny business leads to."

FITZ POV

I took a full step back from Olivia and glanced over my shoulder at my mom and sighed. She was such a cockblock. There might have not been much going on, but just being able to touch Olivia was enough for me and today I'd barely gotten the chance. It was time for us to all settle down and eat soup, watch our traditional Christmas Eve movie and allow CJ to open a present which was always new pajamas to sleep in. Even though she was already in her pjs, it was tradition and I wouldn't be breaking it anytime soon.

"Let's get the movie started and Liv and your dad can get the soup ready for everyone, CJ."

CJ didn't put up a fight and ran off into the living room with my mother following after her.

"Now that they're both gone..."

I didn't waste any time cutting off Olivia's air flow as I captured her lips in mine. I just needed a taste of her and knew this would be the best chance I had for the next two hours. Our tongues circled one another and I moved my hands under her shirt and sprawled them across her smooth waist. My fingers dug gently into her skin, wanting to savor every touch and caress.

When I finally released her, I backed away and leaned my head against the fridge. This was getting more difficult and I hated it. I needed her more than I was willing to admit but I knew I had to restrain myself from taking things too far. The ball was in her court and I knew nothing was happening with CJ and my Mom here.

I watched her out of the corner of my eye. Once again, Olivia ignored my obvious hard on and moved around the kitchen effortlessly, like she has been living here for years. Like she belonged here.

Olivia grabbed four bowls and placed them next to the large pot of chicken dumpling soup my mother had been working on for most of the day. It had cooked for almost 6 hours and was finally ready to be eaten. She grabbed the ladle from the canister on the counter and began filling the bowls up. I smiled when she went to the freezer and grabbed a couple of ice cubes before dropping a few into her and CJ's bowl, something new I'd learned about her. She hated hot soup and preferred it warm so she could actually enjoy it. Once she was done filling the bowls she grabbed saucers to sit under the plates and lined a few crackers on one of the plates specifically for CJ. She knew my daughter as if she'd been here all long.

LIV POV

The soup was consumed and it was as delicious as it smelled. Forty-five minutes into the movie, Fitz sat a sleepy CJ in his lap as she slowly opened the small, wrapped present Lillian had handed her.

"Come on Bug, open it up so you can go to bed. That way Santa can come with all your presents."

He laid a kiss on her hair and my heart warmed at the tenderness he always had with her. She was clearly out of it and about to pass out, but this tradition was clearly important to him. CJ ripped the paper off and smiled sleepily at the Princess Elsa nightgown.

"Thank you Daddy."

I watched her turn in Fitz's arms and kiss him before laying her head on his shoulder.

"Let's put it on you so that you can get into bed, baby."

Fitz made sure all the tape and tags were off before he removed the long sleeve night shirt she was wearing and slipped the fleece nightgown over her head. Once he maneuvered her arms through the openings, he peered down at her and lifted her head slightly so he could see her droopy eyes.

"You wanna keep your pants on or off? I don't want you to get too hot tonight, Bug."

"Off" she mumbled.

Fitz helped her slip the pants off and lifted her into his arms before he moved towards me and Lillian to give us a chance to say goodnight to her.

Once his mother was done, I kissed CJ's cheek before whispering a 'good night' and 'merry Christmas' in her ear.

"Don't forget the cookies, Daddy. And the reindeer food." CJ's voice was a sluggish whisper, making sure that things would get done, regardless of her falling asleep.

Fitz nodded and assured her that he would make sure Santa's cookies were left out and that the reindeer's food would be outside for them as well.

Once Fitz disappeared up the stairs, Lillian and I began to clean up the kitchen. There wasn't much to do and Lillian let me know that she planned to eat the soup for breakfast so I didn't need to put it up.

"Tucked in already?" Lillian asked once Fitz rejoined us in the living room.

We were pulling all of the wrapped presents from the garage and strategically placing them under the tree.

"Yep. We've never played this hard on a Christmas Eve and she's out cold. She reminded me again about the cookies and after only two pages of The Night Before Christmas she was snoring."

I laughed at that. CJ would be so offended at her father claiming that she was snoring.

"Thanks for getting everything out. You can get some sleep if you want Ma, and take my bed. Me and Livvie already decided to sleep down here."

"You sure it's safe to sleep in there? Do I need to change the sheets?"

Oh god. I was embarrassed to say the least and I turned my head, but noticed that Fitz didn't waver one bit.

"If that's what you feel you need to do, go right on ahead." He said smugly.

I finally looked up as Lillian walked over to me and pulled me into a hug and whispered 'Merry Christmas' before she did the same to Fitz.

"I want to take CJ back with me tomorrow when I leave."

Both Fitz and I looked up at her words, confused. She was standing on the landing and preparing to go upstairs, but blurted out the words unexpectedly.

"What do you mean?" Fitz asked.

"I mean I'm sure you two would like some privacy and time together, so I'm gonna take my granddaughter with me when I drive back home. That way you two can spend the next two days alone. She will be occupied with the gifts she has to open at my house. I'm thinking this time alone is something you two need?"

Fitz immediately smiled at her words and I felt myself blush. There was no way I could answer her out loud.

"Just think of it as my Christmas gift to you both, because Fitzgerald you got pajamas again and Liv I didn't know to bring you something."

"You didn't have to bring me anything. Just spending this day with you has been more than enough. You've been so understanding and welcoming." I spoke quietly and gratefully.

"Thanks Ma. That would actually be really great."

She smiled at the both of us and bid us a final goodnight.

"And then there were two." Fitz said, smiling brightly at me as though he had been waiting for this very moment all day.

Fitz POV

Olivia played with the hem of her shirt as I moved to place the final gift in its rightful place. This was the only gift that wasn't wrapped. It was a large dollhouse for CJ and I wanted to be able to have most of the items already inside so she would be able to play with it right away and it could be placed in her room without a million little boxes everywhere.

"I just want to put these things in the house so it's ready for her when she comes down. Do you feel like helping me?"

"Of course."

She moved on her knees and began placing the small figures where she saw fit in the home and I could only smile. I could tell she wanted it to be perfect for CJ too. It took us another twenty minutes for the dollhouse to be complete and for everything else to be placed perfectly around the tree.

"Thank you Livvie."

"No problem,"

"No," I had to stop her and let her know that I wasn't referring to her helping me with the presents. I needed her to know that I was grateful for her being here in general. "I mean thank you for it all. Thank you for trusting me, thank you for loving me and loving my daughter the way she deserves. And thank you for not running when my mom completely ambushed us today. And just thank you for being you. You are the best thing that has happened to me this year, and I am so grateful that you are in my life and that I get to spend another holiday with the most beautiful, kind-hearted, brilliant woman I've ever had the privilege of knowing."

"Fitz." Her voice was hitched and there were tears coating her eyes.

I pulled her closer to me and sat her sideways on my lap.

"I love you Livvie. More than I can honestly put into words."

Her lips touched mine softly before she whispered back that she loved me too.

LIV POV

"Daddy! Wake up! Livia, Santa came! He came!"

My eyes opened and the previous's nights' memories came flooding back all at once.

Fitz declaring his love for me yet again, brought me to tears. He moved us both to the couch and we laid down as he held me tightly against his chest. He was against the back of the couch and I faced him, molding my body into his as he tended to me. I continued to cry and he just held me. I was so in love with him and knew that within the next few days everything would change.

Fitz's grip around me loosened and I turned so that I was able to see CJ. She was knelt in front of the dollhouse, already speaking to the tiny figures as though they were real.

I felt Fitz's cheek move closer until it was directly next to mine.

"This is nice."

I felt him press a kiss to my cheek and I knew exactly what he was referring to. Waking up on Christmas morning and watching CJ play with her toys as he laid wrapped around me was nice. In fact, it was perfect.

"Merry Christmas, Livvie."

"Merry Christmas, Fitz."

It didn't take long before Lillian was downstairs, blinds were open, hot chocolate was handed out and CJ was sitting in a pile of ripped up paper as she played with all the new toys surrounding her. She was bouncy and cheerful, loving the way her Dad and Grandmother responded to the gifts she'd gotten for them.

"I'm gonna put this picture right on my nightstand Ceej, I love it." He said referring to the framed acrylic painting she'd given them. It was apparently months ago that Lillian had taken her granddaughter to make it specifically for a Christmas gift.

"Here's your gift, Livvie!"

We had already had the conversation about me not being able to get CJ a real gift and the small child assured me with words beyond her years that she was okay and that she had enough toys.

I began peeling the colorful snowman paper from the square item and froze when I was able to see the cover of a book.

A Guide to Planting: Everything You Need to Know

Feeling that there was another book underneath it, I moved it aside and read the cover of the second book.

Baking with your Little One

"It's a book that tells you how to plant seeds but Daddy said that we have to wait until it's spring time so we can plant them."

"Plant what?"

"The seeds so we can grow a peach tree in our backyard. Daddy ordered the seeds but they won't come for a while. When it's spring time we can plant the trees and then it takes a long time for the peach tree to grow. That's what Daddy said, but this book can tell you all the right answers."

I was speechless. This was the most thoughtful gift I'd ever received.

"She thought of this all on her own, Livvie."

I had cried enough in the past two days to last a lifetime.

"This one is for when you learn to bake with your mommy or daddy but daddy doesn't bake so I can just bake with you and can be the little one. Little one means like the kid.

I smiled at her words. CJ spoke simply but I could hear the hesitation in her voice, her nerves catching up to her at the fear of rejection.

"That sounds pretty perfect to me. You're the only Little One I'd want to bake with. I really love my gifts CJ. Thank you so, so much."

I pulled her into a warm hug and kissed her cheek before releasing her.

Fitz POV

"Daddy do I have to leave?"

CJ's pout was on full display and I could care less. It was time for my Christmas presents and the first would be my mother taking my child out of the home for the next two days. Olivia and I needed and wanted alone time. CJ had been inseparable from Olivia that morning and afternoon and even though she'd never admit it out loud, I knew Olivia was ready for our alone time. No words were spoken about it, but I knew we'd have our night together. We'd spent the entire day playing with CJ's new toys, eating, and moving around things in CJ's room so that her dollhouse would fit. We watched a movie CJ got for Christmas and the second the credits began rolling, I was upstairs packing her overnight bag. I hadn't allowed her to help me because I knew she would take her sweet time. Now it was just after four and I wanted them to head down before the traffic picked up.

"Oh so you don't want the gifts I have for you at my house?" My mother showed the same attitude that CJ would give off. They were so alike it was scary at times. My mother was clearly where she got her spunk from and I loved it.

"I do want them! But I don't wanna leave Livia! She's gonna be gone when I get back like always."

She was in Olivia's arms before I could respond and I prayed Olivia wouldn't cave in. CJ might have been serious, but she was being a con and ultimate cockblock.

I glanced at Olivia and could tell that CJ was breaking her.

"Mhmmm" I began clearing my throat. There was no way in hell. "Bug she'll be here when you get back. I want you guys to get on the road so say goodbye."

I barely waited for her to respond and lifted her in my arms, allowing her to lean over and hug Olivia before I grabbed her bag and moved towards the front door.

"Bug, you're gonna have the best time. Be good and listen okay? I love you."

I gave CJ a big kiss on the lips after I buckled her into the car seat my mother kept in her car and went to say goodbye to her.

"Thanks for everything Mom. You guys drive safe and text me when you get there."

I popped a quick kiss to her cheek and turned to leave just as quickly but she began talking.

"Now Fitzgerald Thomas I did not raise you to be so damn rude! Come back over here and show some patience. It's Christmas for goodness sakes and Olivia is not gonna anywhere."

I sighed and felt bad. She was right, I was raised better than that and Olivia wouldn't be going anywhere.

"I really like her Thomas."

This is what she wanted to talk about? I sighed and forced a smile into my face.

"I'm glad, Ma."

"She's got some things going on, so don't get me wrong, I'm worried and frightened and I will be checking in constantly, but I can see that she means a lot to you and my grand baby and that's what matters the most."

"I know Ma and I'm glad you were able to just be with us before you made any judgements. I know it was hard for you but I appreciate it. Are you still good with what we talked about? It won't mess up anything for you?"

"Thomas I'm positive. I said I promise and have I ever broken a promise to you?"

"No ma'am."

"Okay then. Let us get on the road and I'll call you once we make it home. Love you son."

"I love you too Ma. Merry Christmas, thank you for being here."

"Wouldn't have missed it. No matter how hard you tried to keep me away."

She sent me a wink and I laughed at her and watched her get inside the car. I closed her door tightly and gave the top a light tap before watching them drive off. I said a silent prayer for their safe drive before I faced my home and a large smile made its way onto my face.

For the first time in a long time, there was someone inside waiting for me.

LIV POV

Seeing Fitz carry CJ out to the warmed up car, I waved a quick goodbye to Lillian who in return sent me a wink before following behind them. This was my chance. I took the stairs two at a time and recalled the words Lillian had whispered to me last night when we bumped into each other in the hall

'There's candles in the hall closet for emergencies and... whatever else you might need candles for.'

I wasn't sure how comfortable I was with Lillian being assistive about Fitz and I's... doings, but I was at least happy that she hadn't kicked me out of the home. It might not have been her home but if she didn't approve of me I had no doubt in my mind that she could make sure I never saw her son or granddaughter again.

I grabbed six of the larger candles and the pack of matches next to them before going back downstairs. I placed two candles on both end tables and took the last two and moved them to the tv stand before lighting them all. I ran around the room and fixed the soft cashmere blanket neatly, then closed the curtains at the back door, hiding the blinding snow-bounced sun. Making my way back to the living room, I flicked off all the remaining lights and finally plugged the Christmas tree back up. I went to the fridge and reached in the far back to grab the bottle of wine I knew was lingering and reached on my toes for two glasses for us. I didn't make a big fuss about setting it up a certain way and once it was sat down I took a few steps back to survey the room.

This was probably such a dumb idea. What if he hated the movie? Sure he'd said he'd love to watch it with me one day but that was just him being courteous. Being Fitz. Most people laughed when they learned it was my favorite movie no matter the season, but Fitz just made it seem as normal as possible. He made everything seem that way for me. Gosh I loved him. Sometimes when I had moments alone, I'd completely space out just thinking of Fitz and how much I truly loved him. The acceptance he gave me, the patience he's shown me and the protection he's providing. He's going completely out of his way on a daily basis and sacrificing...

"... baby...look at me Livvie please."

I snapped out of my inner thoughts and chastised myself for getting so caught up in my thoughts once again. It was clear that he had been trying to gain my attention for a few moments and by the look on his face I could tell that he was now worried.

"I'm ok. I was just thinking and spaced out for a second, I'm sorry I worried you."

I felt his hand cupping the side of my face and I could tell he was searching my eyes for any signs of a lie. I'm not exactly sure when it happened, but Fitz was able to completely read me and could almost always tell when I was lying or not divulging the whole truth.

"What were you spaced out on that made you look the way you did?" He asked with what I referred to as his worried eyes.

I laughed at his overprotective-ness. One day I might get tired of it but I didn't see that happening any time soon.

"You actually."

"Me?"

"Yes." I laughed at the smirk slowly spreading across his thin lips.

"Does it have anything to do with the ambiance you've set up here, speedy Gonzalez? I was gone for like three minutes!"

"Oh you mean this? It was just something I threw together. No biggie."

I shrugged playfully, feeling him intertwine our fingers.

"So what is all this? I mean I see what it is but is there something we're about to do." He asked with wiggling eyebrows. I loved when he got playful like this.

"You're shameless!" I shoved at his shoulder but he barely moved an inch. "I was thinking that if you're up for it..."

I trailed off and went to reach behind one of the pillows and pulled the DVD box out to show him.

Miracle on 34th Street

"Your favorite movie."

I nodded and smiled shyly, hoping he would want to watch it with me.

"I would love to watch this with you, just as promised. Should we get snacks?"

"Popcorn?"

"Of course popcorn. If I expect you to eat anything, I better feed you popcorn. You start the movie up and I'll get it ready, but first..."

His lips were on mine in a not so quick kiss, savoring and taking full advantage of the privacy we had. He gave me one of those full, wet kisses to end it and left me dazed and swaying in the living room.

When he came back we settled on the couch together. Fitz sat down on the end and as if on instinct, I grabbed a pillow and sat it in his lap before stretching out on the couch with my head on the pillow.

"Is this okay?"

The look on his face was blissful. He looked completely calm and at ease.

"It's pretty perfect."

Two kisses later, and I started the movie.

Fitz POV

Watching her watch the movie was like watching magic happen. It reminded me of the way that CJ watched movies. She was facing the tv, but I could see the changes in her mood by her facial expressions. It made her completely happy and by the time we got to the end of the movie she had tears streaming down her face.

"I'm not sure that I like these tears."

I gently touched her chin and turned her head so she was looking up at me. I wiped my thumb against the corner of her eyes and watched as she tucked loose curls behind her ears.

"I used to make the same wish each year. Whether it was Christmas or my birthday except I wished for my mom and a baby sister."

She shrugged her shoulders sat up so that we were sitting shoulder to shoulder.

"As I got older, I found out I did have a little sister and at one point she did come back."

"What happened?"

"She just left again and I wanted to blame her but I understood that she needed to protect her from him. I didn't blame her anymore after that."

"But she left you with him."

"Yea."

"She hurt you. They both did."

She nodded and I brought her into my lap so she was straddling me. I cupped her cheeks and waited until her hesitation was gone and she was looking me in the eyes.

"I promise I'll never do anything to hurt you, Livvie. I won't be perfect, but I love you far too much to ever do anything to purposely hurt you."

Fresh tears coated her eyes and in an instant we were tasting each other. There wasn't any space between us and I quickly moved my hands under her shirt and onto her smooth skin. The moment my hands touched her skin, she gasped into my mouth and pulled away to look at me.

"Should we stop?"

The second she shook her head 'no' I dove back in and devoured her mouth. I did my best to slow down and not rush our kisses, but I knew I wouldn't have the most control until I knew I had to. Feeling her thighs squeeze my hips, I moved my hands under her thighs and stood up, encouraging her legs to wrap around my waist. I moved up the stairs carefully, and gave her a second to breathe while I moved to her neck. I stopped at the top of the stairs when she rolled her hips against my strained erection.

"God Livvie... you can't do that unless you want me to take you against this wall."

"If...you can." she spoke breathily against my lips.

It took everything in me to not accept her invitation, and I moved into my bedroom, and kicked the door closed behind me.

I pulled my mouth away from hers before giving her one of her favorite wet kisses hard on her lips.

"There's no way in hell I'm not gonna savor every single second of you tonight."

"Just tell me.." Olivia began, and I could tell that she was anxious about her next words. "Is there anything that could stop this... do we have anything to worry about... I'm ….ready, I just mean with.."

"No, I'm good, Livvie. We're good."

LIV POV

He was gentle when he laid me on the bed and I couldn't help but push my pants down my thighs. He chuckled at my eagerness before grasping the sides of my panties and pulling them down my legs, leaving me completely naked from the waist down. I bent my knees and spread my legs open, willing him to come closer to me.

I watched, salivating at the mouth as he lifted the shirt from his body and moved onto the bed and over me. Fitz bent his head and kissed the skin that was exposed just under my stomach before trailing his fingers up my torso and removing the shirt completely from my body. My bra was off just as quickly and my fingers unconsciously began to work at the waistband of his jeans. When they zipper was down and the bottom was unhooked, my feet worked on pushing them and his briefs down to his ankles until he was able to completely kick them off.

He teased me first, rubbing the head against me until I was writhing in desire. He was much bigger than I expected and I felt my mouth water and most intimate region quiver in anticipation.

"Please"

I barely got the words out of my mouth. His lips covered mine the second he slid in and I tore my mouth from his and bit down hard on his shoulder.

God, he felt like heaven. He continued to push deeper and I could feel him stretching me in ways that had not been achieved before. The other two men before him couldn't compare and I felt myself stop breathing when he was fully settled into me.

"Oh god.."

His words were breathy and I clenched around him, letting him know I wanted him to move. He moved his head and nudged his nose against mine until our eyes finally met, then he kissed me gently. I opened my mouth and began kissing him languidly while he moved in and out of me. He moved slowly, filling me deeply each time with the perfect amount of strength in his stroke. He continued his pace until my moans in his ear we're obviously too quiet for his liking, and his changed positions.

Sitting up on his knees, Fitz moved faster over me while his lips found my breast and began to treat them as though he'd been marking them for years. His tongue and teeth were determined as he sucked as though he was a starved infant eating its fill. My senses became overloaded as he settled deep inside me while jerking his hips forward, barely leaving my grip. The pressure of his downward thrust and body pressing against my lower lips, coupled with his mouth going back and forth over each of my hardened nipples left me breathless and the second I felt his teeth sink into the sensitive skin, I came undone.

Saying I saw stars would have been an understatement and I gasped as Fitz sped up his thrust while I was still trying to ride out my orgasm. He propped himself up again on his elbows and slid in and out of me with vigor, gritting his teeth as I purposely tightened around him. I wanted him to feel as amazing as I was still feeling and pulled his head down towards mine before latching onto his neck.

"I love ... you.. so much Livvie.. you're... you're mine."

He spoke through his grunts and within seconds I told him that I was his, he stilled and grunted loudly into my neck. I could feel him inside of me, warm and fulfilling. I clenched around him, milking every last drop as my fingers ran through his sweaty hair.

He was still breathing heavily on top of me and my legs had long since fell, sprawled out on the bed. I felt him begin to move and tightened my arms around him, keeping him in place. His head lifted from the crook of my neck and kissed me lazily on the mouth, before kissing at the corner of my lips several times.

"I'm crushing you baby."

I began rubbing his back with one hand, while the other lightly scratched his scalp.

"You're not... it feels nice."

He nodded his head before lining my neck with soft kisses. I stopped moving my hands when I felt him begin to sit up so his face was hovering over mine and we were nose to nose.

"I guess we need to talk about ... what happened."

What?

His tone was serious and he didn't sound or look like what I expected after what just 'happened'. Was this really all just too good to be true? Was this a mistake?

"What... what do you mean? Did I do something wrong?"

The damn tears were welling up in my eyes and confusion set in even deeper as I felt him begin to harden once again inside of me. I closed my eyes tightly waiting for whatever words he would say that would ultimately make me regret everything that happened tonight even as my inside grew wet at the feeling of him.

"You bit me."

"What?"

My eyes opened immediately and gone was the straight face as he now wore that damn smirk.

"You bit me baby."

I brought my hands up to wipe at the unshed tears in my eyes and gave him a blank stare, daring him to complain.

"And?"

"My Livvie is wild."

I swear I hated him.

He moved inside of me, purposely driving his hips deeper into my flesh. He got the exact moan he wanted from me and my hands were instantly pulling his lips onto mine.

I didn't hate him at all. I loved him. So much.

I promise I'm not giving up on either story. It might take a little longer, but I wont abandon them. Thank you for reading. Working on FS now.