Fitz POV

"Marry me"

"Marry you?"

"Yes Livvie, Marry me."

She looked down, to the side, anywhere but in my eyes.

"I can't Fitz. This doesn't make any sense… it's all too soon. Everything."

I held her hands even tighter before kissing her hands. I left my lips there for a second knowing that she was going to agree to something that deep down she didn't want to do.

"One day I'm going to get down on one knee and ask you to marry me. It'll be on a beach, or on top of a mountain, or another cheesy place or even in our bed. It's gonna happen one day and we will have a beautiful wedding and CJ will be the flower girl and stand beside us as we promise to spend the rest of our lives loving each other."

"I really want that too."

"I know baby… but for now I need you to fill out the paperwork so that we are allowed to get married and I need you to understand why. If we are not able to get house arrest approved, I need to make sure our baby doesn't go into foster care.."

Liv POV

Gut. Wrenching.

That's what those two words were. The thought hadn't even crossed my mind and that made me feel worse.

"Foster ca…"

I couldn't even get the words out.

"I know Livvie but that's not going to happen. Stephen's looking into all the rules now but this could be our only option. Most mothers are allowed to say where they want their child to go if born while they're in-prisoned but we don't want to chance anything. He's making sure he knows the protocol but he's also looking into any previous cases to see if there have been any issues. I know it's not what we're ready for but if it comes down to this then we will do what we have to."

"Of course."

I intertwined our fingers before telling him to thank Stephen for thinking of the possible dilemma.

"You should be able to meet with him tomorrow. He's filing his papers to the court for your reassignment on the grounds of conflict of interests so that means I'll get to visit you like this from now on each week. He subpoenaed the doctor here for your medical records and requested an affidavit of your conditions to help our case for requesting house arrest."

"Wow he's moving fast."

"He's the best."

I shook my head wanting to form my own opinion about him once I met him on my own.

"You're the best but if you trust him, then I trust him."

"Thank you… now can we change the subject to a more lighter topic?"

He made me smile and for that I was grateful.

"I would love that."

"CJ is definitely back to her normal self."

"Oh really? Tell me."

Hearing about my feisty CJ always brought a hint of sadness but also made me so happy. I'd spent the previous afternoon telling our baby all about their big sister. She was such a character and I couldn't wait to see all the things she'd learn from her big sister.

"She all but chewed me out on the way home from school all because of what I packed for her lunch."

"Wait why'd you pack it? I thought she'd started doing her own lunch last month?"

"Exactly. The little brat…"

I immediately cleared my throat and raised an eyebrow in warning.

"Excuse me? Don't call my girl a brat."

His eyes rolled, paired with the smile on his face and he held his hand up in surrender before starting over.

"Forgive me. My precious offspring has lost the privilege of having Freckles in her room at night because she's been staying up playing with the damn thing which made her even more grumpy than usual. So while she made her sandwich before bed, I've been packing her snacks and she hasn't been approving."

"Well what did you pack her that was so bad she chewed you out and PLEASE tell me what she said to you. Word for word."

"I packed her bell peppers, carrots, and one of my protein bars."

My mouth fell open and I wanted to hit him so bad. That was mean and he knew it.

"My poor girl! You know how much she hate all of those! Especially your bars. I feel so bad for her."

"She's been so lazy lately it serves her right."

"Such a mean Daddy you've got here, Peanut."

"Peanut?"

"Yea I've tried it out a few times butI don't know. I was thinking of names but haven't been able to come up with anything I like. Peanut's too common. Did you call CJ any pet names before she was born or before you found out she was a girl? Did you find out early?"

Fitz POV

The conversation had completely shifted to the baby and I was okay with that. She'd remember to ask me about what CJ had said soon enough.

"We did find out as soon as we could. I guessed it was a boy from the beginning and she assumed the same."

I shrugged not really caring that we were both wrong. It took no time at all to be excited about having a little girl. At least until it was happening sooner than planned and I was doing it solo.

"Any pet names?"

"Not at first. I think we just called her 'the baby'. And once we found out it was a girl we really went wild and called her 'baby girl'."

Olivia raised her eyebrows in pretend shock, joining in my theatrics.

"Oh wow I don't know if I want to do anything that far fetched but we will come up with something."

"I've kinda been calling the baby something already… well in my head at least."

"Really? Tell me!"

I smiled thinking it was stupid but knowing I couldn't deny her.

"Nugget"

"Nugget?"

"Yea it's kinda cute I think and the baby's like the size of a nugget.. well not really anymore but it's still really tiny so yea, Nugget."

"Nugget… Nugget" She tried it out a few times on her tongue before smiling and nodding her head slowly. She reached down and rubbed her stomach before leaning down just a bit "Hey Nugget, your daddy and I love you"

"We do."

Liv POV

I smiled at him wanting so badly for him to be able to hold me like I knew he wanted to. Like I wanted him to.

We spent the remainder of the visit talking about Stephen and what I could expect from him. Some of the conversation wasn't pretty but it had to be said regardless.

"I just want to make that clear to him."

"I know Livvie."

"I don't want to be left in the dark. About anything and I mean it. Attorney client privilege has to be there Fitz. I don't want you telling him to keep things from me. I'd rather find someone on my own than have that type of lawyer."

"Even if I tried that with Stephen, he wouldn't go for it Livvie. I promise I won't get involved that way but I do have one request for you."

"What?"

"Tell him that he can tell me everything. If you don't he won't. He's going to do this by the books completely and I respect him for it but I also can't be kept in the dark Livvie. I refuse to not know what's going on."

"I promise I will let him know that you can know everything."

I looked at him and smiled knowing we only had a few minutes left together as the time dwindled down.

"You'll find out about the baby from Stephen and let me know what he says? I want to ask the doctor what she knows about it and one of the guards."

"As soon as I know something, you will too. I'm going to look into the marriage thing as well."

I nodded and sent him a small smile. I loved him more than I could comprehend but didn't want to get married yet if I didn't have to.

"Last resort?"

"Last resort I promise. Hey look at me Livvie."

He didn't continue until I was staring at him and I appreciated the words he began speaking.

"I love you and I know you love me.. right now that's all we need. I know now isn't the time for marriage but if it's what we have to do, then I won't regret any second of it because I already know I want to spend the rest of my life with you."

"Visitors up! 10 seconds. Hug. Step away."

Two Weeks Later

LIV POV

It was like a waiting game. Three days. That's how long it had been since I'd met with Stephen Finch for the first time and I had to be honest and say I liked him. He was smart, sharp and seemed to know what he was doing. His accent made him come off a bit smarter than he probably was but he still convinced me that he would win this new appeal. The hardest part was that I believed him. I wondered if I would've been so convinced if Fitz would have been the one so sure of himself and figured I would. Yet if anything went wrong, Fitz would beat himself up and I would want to comfort him and let him know that he hadn't let me down but with Stephen I felt I could feel any way I truly wanted to feel. He was Fitz's friend, but was first and foremost my lawyer and I could say what I felt even if it was disappointment.

Three days is how long I had been waiting until Stephen could present his appeal to the judge and today was that day. He should be in front of the judge right now or at least on the docket and Fitz should be here for his weekly visit, waiting for me to be escorted down with the rest of the women. When guard Curtis came around I greeted her with a smile.

"How are you two doing Olivia?"

"Pretty good today. I think I'm feeling some tiny movements but I'm not really sure. Could be my mind playing tricks on me. Other than that, not too bad. Ready for our visit."

I watched her brows furrow before she looked down at her clipboard.

"I know you're usually on the list, but I don't have you listed on the visitation allowance today, Olivia."

"What? There must be a mistake. I was told yesterday that I could have my visit as usual."

"This is a new list Warden gave me just before I walked down based off visitors that are checked in. I'm sorry I don't know what to tell you. I'll look into it when we head that way."

I was disappointed but it could have been a number of things. There was always a possibility that Fitz had run late and been turned away or maybe something happened with CJ that he had to tend to. I definitely understood that but wished I had an actual answer. I sat down realizing that I should make myself comfortable until the next guard came down to let us out. I wanted to get to a phone before they were all taken.

I heard the large cell gate close signally that someone was entering and went to see if it was another guard planning to let the remainder of us out.

"Open eight"

That was my cell number and I took a step back at the unfamiliar voice but seconds later was greeted by someone i'd only met once.

"Ms. Pope, it's nice to see you again."

"Hello, is everything okay? I was supposed to have visitation today."

"Everything's fine Ms. Pope, in fact I just got off the phone with Judge Andrews and your lawyer is minutes away from delivering the signed order from him releasing you to official house arrest for the remainder of your sentence."

My mouth fell open and I swallowed before blinking to ensure I wasn't dreaming. He let out a deep chuckle that startled me and there was suddenly a hand patting my shoulder lightly.

"We both know you don't belong in here Ms. Pope and I'm glad your lawyer was able to make this happen. A guard should be bringing you a box for your things but I make it my business to inform inmates of their release. I wish you nothing but the best Ms. Pope and hope to never see you again."

He winked, then he was gone. I stayed in that very spot unable to move for several seconds, maybe even minutes until Guard Curtis showed up carrying a brown box and a large smile on her face. I still was unable to move and I remembered her leading me to the bed and sitting me down before she bent down and looked me in the eyes.

"You're gonna be alright now Olivia. Let's get you packed up."

She began gently un-taping my letters and pictures from CJ off the wall, packed up the snacks I had stashed in the corner and other small things from the commissary that I was allowed to have.

"Now I can't carry you outta hear so you're gonna have to move your little pregnant behind so you can see that handsome man of yours. Your transport van leaves as soon as we sign you out. You ready?"

Those words finally snapped me out of it and I locked eyes with her before smiling.

I was definitely ready.

Fitz POV

I couldn't stop pacing back and forth. It was protocol that Olivia would be brought to the agreed upon residence her lawyer requested and that was my home, our home. Stephen was following her so that he could sign all the paperwork, agreeing that as her lawyer he would be solely responsible for ensuring she in fact stayed on house arrest with the exception of pre-approved outings which were only doctors appointments right now. Choosing a doctor was something we hadn't gotten a chance to speak about but my mom' best friend from childhood worked at the hospital in town and she'd put in a good word for us. We'd never discussed what type of insurance she had and I made a mental note to add that to the list of things we needed to figure out. I knew I was driving Stephen insane with the amount of texts I was sending him and he promised me he'd text me when they reached the city. That text came twenty minutes ago and I knew they'd be here within the next few minutes. A noise at the backdoor surprised me and when I was finally able to tear my eyes away from my driveway, I moved towards it and was shocked at who I saw.

I hadn't seen or heard from Huck in nearly a month and shouldn't be surprised at his sudden appearance. I opened the door and he entered silently before dropping a large duffel bag onto the floor.

"I have to wash these."

"Ooookay?"

"I'll do it later."

"Where.. where have you been? You just disappeared."

"I didn't. I told you I was going to find Jake."

"And did you?"

"Why do you think it took me so long to come back? If it wasn't for Liv coming back, I'd still be there torturing him."

"Where is he now.. wait, how did you know she was coming back today?"

He only looked at me. Stared at me in that Huck way that he did, making me feel like an idiot.

"Jake's dead."

He pulled out his phone before stuffing it into his pocket and moving towards the stairs.

"They're pulling up. I'll be upstairs."

At once I heard his footsteps on the hardwood floors, sets of tires pulling into the driveway, car doors opening and closing, then finally a doorbell.

LIV POV

The door opened and everything seemed to happen at once. Fitz was holding me in his arms and I held him just as tightly, breaking down after I'd silently counted to ten and realized I didn't have to let go. I held him for thirty seconds before the man behind me cleared his throat and asked us to allow him into the home. Fitz didn't let go of me and basically walked us both into the dining room, only letting go to introduce himself to my escorts and to shake Stephen's hand.

"I'm here to set up the tracking device for Ms. Pope and go over the rules. This monitor is equipped with a Global Positioning System, or GPS, and is able to give us your exact location at all times. The device motherboard will be hooked up someplace where it cannot be mistakenly unplugged. Most people have that be the kitchen or living room. Regardless the device is off limits and should've be tampered with nor should you attempt to dismantle it in any way. The same goes for your ankle monitor Ms. Pope. No tampering with it whatsoever. It's waterproof so there's no reason for you to have to take it off. The number to the operating system is on the motherboard but also listed here on the front page of the packet. When you have your doctor appointments, you need to call and notify them so that the motherboard can be overridden or else it will alert the authorities immediately. You will be tracked while you are at your appointments and will be instructed to return directly home. The operator will provide a timeframe of travel needed to and from the location of your doctor and you will be given adequate time to make it there and back. If you go outside of the three-thousand square foot radius, the alarm will sound and authorities will be alerted if you are not back in the perimeter within ninety seconds. Are there any questions?"

I shook my head and Fitz got down in front of me before speaking to the man. "Does it matter which ankle?"

"Whichever she wants."

I didn't care and began to lift my left ankle only to have Fitz hold it in place as the man began to secure the monitor there. His hands were gentle and I closed my eyes praying this wasn't all a dream. It took a minute for him to get everything situated and once he was done, he pulled out a clipboard and looked between Fitz and I expectedly.

"How would you like to pay today? We accept all major credit cards and checks."

Before I could even speak, Fitz was fishing out his wallet and handing over his credit card. More paperwork was signed by Stephen and just as quickly as he came, the man was gone with Stephen on his tail.

"Olivia, Fitz, I'll check in tomorrow, …."

"Friday." Fitz voice interrupted with finality in his tone.

"Thursday then."

"Friday. We will let you know which OB Liv will be using and we will make sure that we give them the address and time of her appointment but give us three days Stephen. No interruptions."

"Got it Boss. Olivia, I will be in touch. You have my cell if you need to get in contact with me. Welcome home."

"Thank you Stephen. I had no clue the next time I'd step foot into this house so I appreciate everything you did."

"Say no more. I've got plenty of work to get to. I'll see myself out."

Fitz POV

I locked the door behind Stephen and turned around at the sound of footsteps making the stairs creek. Huck moved to stand in front of her and Olivia smiled at the man before standing up and hugging him tightly. I watched their encounter patiently, fidgeting with my hands because I wanted to be holding Olivia myself. I ignored them for a moment andsent my mother a text letting her know that Olivia was home and I appreciated her for keeping her while Olivia got settled in. I knew my daughter would freak out and remain at Olivia's side once she laid eyes on her so I wanted Olivia to have as much time as possible to herself before that.

"When did you get here? Fitz said he hasn't seen you in weeks."

I noticed her glance at me before looking back to Huck for answers.

"He wasn't lying. I've been in Georgia with Jake for the past few weeks gettinginformation from him on Russel. Every question we've been asking, the how, why, he gave it all except one."

"What wouldn't he say?"

"Where Russel is. He doesn't know and if he did he would've given up his location."

"How can you be sure?"

"Because I made him talk and he did. I got everything I wanted from him."

"Where is he now?"

"Dead."

"Livvie?"

She glanced at me and it was like no time had passed at all. She knew what I was saying with one look. I didn't want her worrying about anything today. I wanted her to feel welcomed home and not stressed.

Huck looked between the two of us before taking a step towards the sliding back door.

"I'll be in touch tomorrow."

He left out of the backdoor and I could only shake my head. I had no idea where the hell he was going and how he got out of the gated yard but I figured it was some type of way he'd finagled.

When all was silent we watched one another silently. She looked so unsure and I wanted to end that as soon as possible. I walked over to her and immediately embraced her, wrapping my arms under hers and bringing her body as close to mine as possible. Feeling her stomach did it for me and tears welled up in my eyes. She was wearing the same clothes she'd gone to jail in and I could see where they had tightened due to her growing body. I didn't want her wearing those clothes any longer than she had to. I wanted her to be able to wash the past three months away. I moved to one knee in front of her and attempted to lift her shirt but she stopped me and took a step back before encouraging me to stand up again.

"Not yet.. I need to shower first."

"Okay, I'm sorry I didn't mean to.."

"No it's ok. I want you to, I just want to wash it all away."

I nodded before standing up and grabbing a hold of her hand. She looked as though she wanted to cry from exhaustion and I knew all she needed was a hot shower and sleep. I moved slowly up the stairs, wrapping my arm around her waist to assist her and led her directly in front of my shower.

"I can let you…"

"No stay with me… I don't want you to go."

She began to cry and reached for me which I immediately obliged. I rubbed her back doing my best to silence hersobs.

"I'm sorry baby. I figured you might finally want some privacy."

She held onto me tighter, practically clawing at my back to get as close as she could to me.

"I want you here Fitz. I don't want privacy from you. I just need you here."

"Hey shhhh, I'm here I promise. I won't leave."

I held her tightly to my chest for a few moments. The tighter I held her, the faster she fell apart. I wasn't sure if she had been holding this all in or if it was new pain bubbling to the surface. All I knew was that I wanted to protect her, to take care of her in every possible way.

"Livvie let me take care of you baby… okay?"

The subtle nod against my shoulder was all I needed to feel. I kept my hold on her as I turned the shower on. I adjusted the temperature to what I knew she preferred then carefully began to undress her. I couldn't deny the fact that seeing all the changes to her body did something to me. She was stunning. I knew I couldn't focus on everything that was right in front of me and pushed those feelings to the back of my mind. I needed to take care of her.

An hour later Olivia sat between my legs on the bed keeping her towel pressed against her chest. She was doing her best to stay awake as I smoothed her favorite cream into the skin of her back. We took our time in the shower. I gently cleaned her skin and washed her hair using all her favorite products that were there. Her hair was still partially wet and not quite done air drying. Her head fell back onto my shoulder and she burrowed her face into my neck as I ran my hands from her shoulders until our fingers were intertwined.

"Let me get you into bed."

"Not yet.. just hold me."

Liv POV

I removed the towel from my chest and brought his hands to my bare stomach. I was extremely tired but wanted the comfort of his hands on me. I sighed as he palmed my bump. His touches were gentle and intentional, covering every inch of my curved stomach.

"I can't believe there's a baby in there, Livvie."

"Neither can I… it still blows my mind and doesn't seem real."

"We made a baby." He whispered the words in my ear and my heartbeat increased.

"Yea we did." I knew he heard the tears in my voice. He released his hold on my stomach before turning me so that my legs were hanging over the side of the bed. He was still dressed in only his boxers and moved between my legs before kissing my stomach. For a split second I thought about covering my breasts but it went away immediately. Being bare with Fitz was something I was completely comfortable with and missed. As non-sexual as our shower was, we both felt the longing for one another after being apart for so long. The intimacy of this moment wasn't lost on either of us and what I needed more than anything was to be close to him.

"I've missed you Livvie."

I moved my fingers through his damp curls, earning a heavy sigh of relief from him. He was always being so strong for me, strong for CJ and now for our baby. He relaxed under my touch for a few moments before finally looking up at me. His eyes were tender and worried. I hated that he looked so concerned but I was feeling the same way.

"You're both going to be okay."

I smiled at him and nodded, believing him without hesitations.

I let go of him and reached for the tank top and panties he'd laid out for me and once he moved from his position, I dressed myself and laid down. I specifically left room for him to lay behind me and moved back into his body once he was spooning me. This was the best feeling in the world at the moment and no one could tell me anything different.

"The doctor mom knows has a great reputation with the community. She's really sought after and I called her to see if we could meet her."

"What did she say?"

The quietness of his voice was lulling me to sleep already.

"We can meet with her tomorrow at nine if you want."

"Yes. I want to get our baby checked out."

"Me too."

I moved his hand from the middle of my stomach to the very bottom right above my pelvic bone. I guided his hand from there over the small swell then finally to the curve under my breasts. I repeated the path once more before I knew he understood what I needed from him and he continued.

"I want to make sure everything's ok before CJ comes home…"

"Me too Livvie."

"I don't want her confused if…"

"Stop. You're both going to be just fine. You're both perfect. Sleep baby."

I nodded but subconsciously felt myself moving further in his embrace unable to get close enough.

"Livvie I'm not going anywhere. I promise."

I turned so that my lips touched his and kissed him for a moment, only stopping when he wiped the fresh tears from my cheeks.

"I love you Fitz."

"I love you too Livvie. Sleep. I've got you…. I've got you both."

FITZ POV

The next morning we were both up just after six. I wasn't sure the exact dream, or nightmare that was keeping Olivia up but after waking up twice in the middle of the night to her crying out in her sleep, I didn't bother. I watched over her in silence for nearly an hour before she slowly awakened. She stretched her limbs before burrowing back into her favorite pillow. Her legs moved between mine and froze when she made contact with the hardest part of my anatomy. It was only then that she opened her eyes.

"Hi."

"Hi you….you should probably stop that." Her lips curled into a half smile as her foot continued its attack on me."

"Why?"

"Because the only thing you can do is tease me.."

"For now." She interrupted and I raised a single eyebrow. "As long as the doctor says it's ok and the baby's fine."

That was all I needed to hear. My lips were instantly on hers and I was kissing her more sensually than the previous day. There was something about knowing that she was just as eager as I was to reconnect that way. Our tongues were alive and exploring for a few moments before the need for air separated our lips. We sat there smiling shamelessly at one another, just stupid happy, having a great feeling about what today was going to bring.

The sun had barely risen but she allowed me to make her breakfast, yet refused to wait in bed for it. Olivia sat perched at the kitchen island as I made what she revealed to be craving. Bacon, french toast and strawberry milk. She wanted watermelon as well but we had none because CJ didn't eat it. I'd never seen her eat food like she did this morning. I figured it was because she hadn't had any real food in the past three months. I refused to let her clean up and instead gave her a notepad and pen so she could make a list of everything she was craving and wanted to keep in the house.

I finished loading the dishwasher and wiped down the counter before checking the time and walking over to her.

"We need to get going pretty soon, you got everything on here? I'm gonna order it online before we leave and it should be ready to pick up on the way home from your appointment."

I looked at her expecting an answer but only saw the frightened look on her face instead as she stared at me.

"Livvie, What is it?"

"What if …. Maybe we should wait to order all this.."

"Why? They've got two hour delivery times if we do it early enough or we can use amazon, no biggie."

"What if I won't have anymore cravings because the baby is… I don't want to jinx anything Fitz."

"Don't think that way. We need to stay positive…"

"I should've felt it moving by now. I'm sure of it."

"That doesn't mean anything. That could be for a normal pregnancy and nothing about your pregnancy has been normal. You were checked last week and things were fine then and they will be now."

"How can you be so sure?"

"Daddy's always know best." I winked her at her simply wanting to get a smile and succeeded.

It took us nearly forty minutes to leave the house but that was due to my lack of planning ahead. I was able to place the order for the groceries, and even contact the correct operator to give them the address and time of Olivia's appointment. The one thing I hadn't remembered was to find something that Olivia could easily get into without worry. Pretty much all of her pants fit but they wouldn't button, and her shirts held a shred of proof that her boobs had grown in size. She'd finally settled on a solid black maxi dress she'd had tucked away in her bag of clothes and after tossing it in the dryer only to un-wrinkle it, we were finally on our way.

"Ms. Pope " a nurse called and we were both standing up and following the middle-aged woman down a hall.

We were led into a decent sized room with a table, an ultrasound machine and many other medical tools that looked scary. The walls were lined with pictures of happy gurgling babies with few happy families. There was a robe laid out on the table and I figured that was what I would be changing into.

"Dr. Kelly will be just a few minutes so if you could just change into the gown and lay down, you'll be good to go." The nurse departed with a smile and left us to ourselves.

I walked over to the gown and picked it up, eyeing the paper material. When we called to confirm the appointment last night, Dr. Kelly informed me that she wanted to do a transvaginal ultrasound to get accurate measurements of the baby. I toed my shoes off before removing my clothes and putting the gown on.

"Here let me take those" Fitz's quiet voice interrupted the many thoughts going through my head as he reached for my clothes and laid them neatly over the back of his chair.

"Thanks"

As if he could sense my uneasiness, he gently cupped my cheeks and kissed my forehead, then my lips successfully calming me down. He brought one hand inside the gown to my stomach and rubbed soothing circles against my skin.

"Breathe with me okay?"

He did this yesterday as we stood face to face in the shower. I felt like it was all a dream and felt myself begin to hyperventilate but he calmed me down almost instantaneously by talking to me and telling me to breathe. Once we got in the car this morning to drive here, it happened again. This time it seemed he was able to prevent it from happening, making me wonder what signs he was able to see.

"She'll be in soon and we will get to see our little Nugget and see how they're growing. We will get pictures printed and set up our next appointment and follow every order she gives us. It's all going to be just fine, Livvie. Right?"

I nodded, allowing myself to believe his words. Our baby was going to be just fine.

"Do you think our baby is gonna be that cute?" Fitz asked, completely changing the subject and gesturing to one of the many baby's on the wall.

I looked at the chubby baby that had the sweetest eyes and biggest smile and swifts of chocolate hair feathered against their forehead. She was absolutely adorable.

"Nope, our baby's gonna be cuter."

He smiled and moved the empty chair closer to where I was perched.

"Completely true, I mean with our good looks combined, this baby will be the cutest baby ever tied with CJ."

He kissed my hand and then placed our interlocked hands on my stomach.

"Hey Nugget , how you doing? You're gonna meet our new doctor today so it'll probably be a bunch of poking and prodding but Mommy and I are right here so don't be afraid ok? We're gonna make sure you're doing good in there, okay?"

Before I could say anything, there was a small knock at the door and the doctor walked in, smiling brightly at us.

"Ms. Pope, I am Dr. Stevens," she introduced herself shaking my hand before immediately pulling Fitz into a hug. "I cannot believe one of my oldest friends is about to be a grandmother again. Hi Mr. Grant. I believe the last time I saw you, I called you Fitzy. It's good to see you and I'm very happy to be a part of this with you both."

"Thanks so much for seeing us Dr. Kelly, we know..."

"Moira. None of that Dr. Kelly stuff. You're basically family and I'm her for whatever you need. I promised Lillian that I would take excellent care of the both of you and I meant it. Let's just start with a few questions. I know your history and have the notes from the previous doctor that was seeing you but how are you feeling? Have you had any discomfort? Any bleeding at all?"

We watched as she began setting things up, pulling out a wand and sheathing a condom over it. I had to admit how awkward it was seeing her use lube on the wand before she stopped moving and waited for my answers.

"I've been feeling really exhausted which makes sense especially given the circumstances. Umm I haven't had any bleeding, I had some spotting last week but my doctor told me it was normal and I was able to hear the baby's heartbeat that day when I was examined. Since then I think the amount of stress I've been under is what I'm worried about. My blood pressure was high when I checked out of... yea."

"Ok, lets take a look at this baby in just a second." Moira felt around my stomach, pushing down on it slightly in some places before asking me the date of my last cycle, clearly doing her own calculations before hitting down notes on a chart.

"Ok, I'm gonna check your blood pressure and things like you're protein and sugar levels today once we're finished up here. Diane is the best stick in town and will be in and out of here in no time. Now your blood pressure I'm going to be sure to keep an eye on and more than likely check weekly depending on where it's at today."

She smiled warmly letting me know that she was going to be checking the size of the baby and to do my best to relax as she began her exam.

It didn't take very long for the swooshing sound to fill the room and we both looked at Fitz whose smile said it all. He was hearing his baby's heartbeat for the first time.

"Nice strong heartbeat we've got mama."

She pointed out some obvious body parts before making more marks and notes in her chart.

I held my breath for a second as she shifted the wand around a bit before apologizing. She was suddenly smiling as though she'd finally found what she was looking for.

"Alright so your little one here is making sure they keep their sex a secret from the camera but I've got all my measurements and in comparing them to what you're record show Olivia, I would say they did a good job estimating your due date. I am going to change what they originally gave you and set your due date as November first. Just a little under two week's difference which would put you at sixteen weeks and just around the corner from your halfway point."

"Halfway? You've basically missed everything.." I turned to look at Fitz feeling horrible.

"Hey no, Livvie don't cry baby. We've still got plenty of time left and I'm gonna be here every step of the way. Annoying you with my worrying. Trust me you're gonna wish you were back..."

I gave him a look daring him to really go there and he actually looked afraid. He stroked my cheeks, clearing my tears before taking hold of my hand.

"He's right you've still got plenty of time to share so many firsts with him. Plus, you're almost at the fun part."

"The fun part?" I asked with raised eyebrows.

"Oh yes," Dr. Kelly began as she disposed of the condom and gestured for me to lower my feet. "the midnight snack run, the flutters, the actual kicking that daddy will get to feel too and the... fun hormones." She winked at me and I cleared my throat before scooting into a sitting position.

"Is that um, is that safe? Do we have anything to worry about with that part?"

"Not at all. Your blood pressure is moderate, not too high but I definitely want to see you back next Friday to check your levels again and your fluids. Right now you can do whatever feels comfortable with you. It's really up to you but I'm gonna suggest you give your body one more day to rest now that you're back home, then whatever floats your boat. I'll have your labs back tomorrow but you have no restrictions after tomorrow unless you start to feel off in a bad way. Let me get these pictures printed and have you two on your way."

She smiled at us and left the room. I moved from off the table and looked over at Fitz. He'd been pretty silent and his face was bright red.

"What's wrong?"

Fitz shook his head and grimaced for a second before he could meet my eyes.

"She's like my moms best friend... like my aunt or something and she basically just told us we can go have all the sex we want."

I laughed not even realizing that it might be weird for him. I finished dressing before coming to wrap my arms around his waist.

"But at least we know that it's safe and won't hurt the baby. I mean, have you wanted to?"

"Of course I have. You do remember me showering with you yesterday right?" His hands wrapped around my waist and firmly moved over my ass stealing several gropes at the same time his lips caressed my neck. "This morning was also torturous being so close to you and not being able to have you. I understood but it still didn't matter. I've missed you so much baby."

I nodded, feeling butterflies that only Fitz could summon. I reached for his lips and barely had time to savor them when a knock came on the door and Dr. Kelly was poking her head in.

"I'm sorry I can see you two are busy but I wanted to give you the first pictures of baby Grant. I'll see you two next week."

She must've realized that we needed a moment and left us wide eyed and overjoyed as we stared at the pictures of our baby.

I thought of his words from yesterday and couldn't help but repeat them.

"We made a baby"

His lips pressed against my forehead and Fitz pulled me into his chest as we continued to look at the four pictures we now treasured.

"Yea we did."

FITZ POV

"Thanks for keeping her these past few days, Mom. You didn't say anything to her did you?"

"No I didn't spill the beans but it took everything in me. I know that's something you both want to do."

I nodded gratefully and glanced at CJ who was playing in the backyard. I made it clear that the only way she could have a popsicle was if she ate it outside and came straight in to bathe. She was now outside swinging on her play set, savoring the treat while her hair blew in the wind.

"How is Liv?"

I sighed and looked at her.

"She's exhausted but good. Moira basically said she looks great and to take the day and rest so that's all we've been doing. Resting and eating whatever her heart desires. It's been nice."

"I'm sure it has been. Is she resting now?"

I felt bad that she wouldn't get a chance to see Olivia because I knew how badly she wanted to. She'd been so supportive through everything that had happened but she was also patient.

"Yea, she's been asleep for the past few hours. I have a feeling she'll wake up when CJ sees her, at least if I can't keep her quiet. I hope she's able to sleep but we'll see. She's been napping a lot and these late naps typically rollover into bedtime."

"Being pregnant does that to you but in her circumstances this is probably the first time she's been able to really sleep. Did you guys find out the sex? Did she like Moira? I told her to take special care of Olivia."

"She was really great and Liv seems to like her so far and we appreciate it. We weren't able to see the sex but she said everything looks great and that's all we really needed to hear. She did schedule another appointment for next week to make sure she's seeing growth from the baby and Olivia. I didn't expect it to be so soon."

"Well I did tell her we expect first class service. I'm glad she's having a check up so soon though. It's important to know that the baby and Olivia are staying healthy after such a drastic change in environments. I pray next week my grand-baby is spread eagle."

I could only laugh at my mother's blunt words.

"You would. Liv is happy about the appointment being so soon as well. She wants her blood pressure checked soon knowing she'll be settled in more. It was a bit high so we're both a bit worried but knowing the baby is ok made things better."

"I'm glad to hear that, son. This weekend I'm gonna bring her some tea that'll help with her blood pressure. All natural so there's nothing to worry about. Also let me know how my girl responds to seeing her Livia back."

"Thanks Ma. I'm gonna get her showered and give her the news."

She kissed my cheek before grabbing her bag and walking out the front door.

Seeing that CJ had finished her popsicle and was just swinging, I called her inside hoping she wouldn't try to have more play time. It was late but not quite nearing her bedtime.

"Wait Ceej, lets at least wipe your hands down a bit."

"But I'm gonna take a bath!"

"Yes but you're also gonna touch my walls and everything else with your sticky fingers on the way there. Alright so straight into your bathroom ok?"

"But I have my mermaids in your tub and I want those."

"Not tonight. Quick shower then bed…"

"But daddy, it's early! It's not even dark outside!"

"Ceej, quick shower then bed, because guess what?"

"What?"

"I have a surprise for you, but wait! You can't ask what it is because I won't tell you but I need you to stay calm and listen to everything I tell you okay? That's the only way you get the surprise tonight or else you're waiting until the morning. Kapeesh?"

Her eyes widened understanding that I meant business.

"Kapeesh Daddy."

"Alright let's go upstairs as quietly as possible ok? You go straight into your bathroom and I'm gonna go get your night clothes."

She nodded and I smiled watching her walk up the stairs as quietly as she could before going into the bathroom and getting undress. I started the water for her before telling her to get in and start washing up. I picked out her night clothes and sat them on the counter before telling her to start washing her hair. I cracked open my bedroom door to make sure Olivia was still asleep and sure enough she was still passed out. I prayed that CJ wouldn't wake her up and I wished I could just let her find out in the morning but she had insisted that I let CJ sleep with us tonight.

I moved back into the bathroom and praised CJ who had already conditioned her hair and was rinsing the last bit of product out. When she was done I helped her dry off and dressed her myself to kill the chances of a standoff later. When everything was ready, I lifted her up and sat her on the counter and moved so I was face to face with her.

"Alright Ceej so I have something to tell you and I need you to listen okay?"

She nodded and could tell that this was serious.

"I'm gonna let you sleep in my bed tonight but I need you to promise that you're going to go right to bed. No talking, no asking questions about anything, just sleep okay? We will talk in the morning."

"What do you mean? Can I just sleep in my room after I get the surprise?"

"Well you could but I really think you'll want to sleep in my room tonight."

"But Daddy.."

"Hey, do you trust me Bug?"

She nodded her head and I scooped her up in my arms before walking to my closed door.

"Remember what I said. We can talk tomorrow but it's quiet time right now."

She nodded wearing the most apprehensive look on her face. I opened the door to the dark room and the second I closed it again and turned to face the bed she tensed in my arms. I tried to make out the look on her face as she noticed Olivia asleep barely twenty feet away from her but she was wriggling in my arms, eager to get down.

"No no Ceej I know you're excited but calm down baby."

"Livia's here." Her quiet voice matched mine and I was glad she knew to speak softly.

"I know and you can sleep with her but she needs her rest Bug. She's really tired but made me promise to bring you in tonight. But you have to let her sleep okay? Promise me Bug."

"Can I sleep next to her?" Her eyes were wide and hopeful.

"Of course you can."

"I promise Daddy."

I kissed her head before gently placing her on the bed next to Olivia. I could only smile watching her snuggle into Olivia's chest contently. I moved to the other side of CJ and watched them silently for a few moments.

Every few seconds I found myself reminding her to keep her hands to herself and not to wake Olivia. She'd run a finger across her cheek or smooth a hand over her curls.

"Ceej relax baby."

We both felt Olivia shift and we froze hoping that we hadn't awaken her. After a second I released the breath I was holding. CJ's quiet sniffles snatched my focus and I pulled at her shoulder until she was facing me. Even in the dark room I made out her glossy eyes and tear stained cheeks.

"It's okay Bug, what's wrong? I don't want you to be sad."

"It's happy tears Daddy. Livia came home."

"I know, I'm happy too."

"Did you cry when she came home?"

"Yea Bug, I did."

I pushed a few tears from her cheeks trying my best to not cry again.

"Did she come home today while I was with Grandma?"

"Go to sleep okay? She's gonna be here when we wake up."

She nodded and moved until her back was pressed up against Olivia's chest.

"Livia feels different Daddy."

Of course she did. It was all I noticed each time I touched her.

"I know Bug. Go to sleep."

"But Daddy…"

"Tomorrow okay. Olivia needs to sleep."

She listened and simply stared at me for a few quiet seconds. I leaned closer and kissed her forehead, keeping my lips there for a few seconds. I brought my hand to her head, smoothing back her wavy hair for a moment, wishing I could hear her thoughts.

"Are you okay, Bug?"

She nodded and closed her eyes for a second then opened them again.

"Is she staying here, Daddy?"

"Yea she is."

She smiled and opened her mouth before closing it again. I could tell she was trying to hold back all of her questions. The entire room was so peaceful that I began dozed off. I had finally allowed my eyes to close when I immediately felt someone watching me and opened them up again.

She was awake, staring at me and smiling softly as her gaze moved to CJ. I smiled at her and reached forward to stroke CJ's chin, forcing her to open her eyes and look at me.

"Hey Bug?"

"Yea Daddy?"

CJ blinked sleepily and I knew that she was one hundred percent content in this moment.

I sent her a small smile before gesturing behind her. She stretched her neck to see behind her and the second she realized Olivia's eyes were open, her entire body was facing her again and she was grinning widely.

"Hi CJ."