Hello Fan Fiction Readers, I hope this update finds you well. And, you're still interested in this story. It's been a while since the last update. I appreciate all of the guesses of who killed Warren, it shows your engagement into the story.

Let's check back into this story, and see how the drama unfolds, leading our beloved couple Olitz, down the pathway to Vermont.

Disclaimer: I do not own these characters. They belong to Shondaland Productions.

Happy reading everyone!

Fitz is sitting in the oval finishing up a brief, when he's suddenly interrupted by a knock on the door. He looks up and says, "Come in." When the door opens he sees Abby and Jarrod walking in hurriedly, together. As he sits back in his seat he sarcastically says, "Well, this can't be good."

Jarrod sighs as he responds, "Unfortunately sir, you're right. We have a problem." Fitz sees the concern on both of their faces, which worries him. He stands up as he inquires, "What's wrong? Is it the kids, Liv, what?" Abby quickly replies, "No. Nothing like that sir. I got a call from a source at the coroner's office. It's Warren, the news reporter who baited Liv. He's been murdered."

Fitz is visibly surprised as he responds, "What? When? How?" Jarrod responds, "So far, all we know is he was found shot dead in his house. It hasn't been officially reported yet." Frustrated, Fitz puts his hand on his forehead as he says, "Damn it. The tabloids are going to have a field day with this mess. What's the plan on how to handle it?"

Abby confidently replies, "For now. We just give out condolences to his family and leave it at that. But, we know that it won't be long before Rosen starts nosing around. And, while he will not venture here. He will be hounding Liv." He sits down as he replies, "We're not worried about that. Liv can handle Rosen. She always does."

Jarrod interjects, "Yes. She does sir. But, the president's significant other being questioned by police, regarding a murder investigation will garner wide ranging media attention. Attention we must handle perfectly, to ensure we don't have a public relations nightmare on our hands."

Fitz hears him but turns to Abby and asks, "What do you think we should do?" She takes a breath and says, "We should do what's in the best interest of this administration for sure. But, I don't think making a move now, given what we know is prudent. Let's stand pat, talk to Liv, and go from there."

Jarrod challenges, "Are you sure about that? The quicker we execute a plan of action, the better. The last thing we want to do is get caught napping here. We need to consult a crisis manager as soon as possible."

Abby is almost about to roll her eyes, but she catches herself. And, Fitz, beats her to the punch by saying, "First, I know you're new to this role Jarrod, and I'm sure you mean well. But, Liv is the best crisis manager in the business. So, we've got that part covered. And second, I posed the question to Abby for a reason, so if you don't mind I'd like to hear her response instead of yours, due to her experience in these matters."

Feeling overwhelmingly awkward and embarrassed, but managing to power through the conversation. Jarrod replies, "My apologies sir. Go ahead Abby."

Somehow she is able to maintain her composure without laughing in Jarrod's face, and she steps up as she replies, "I respectfully disagree with your perspective Jarrod. The last thing we want to do is overreact, and make things worse by panicking unnecessarily. Especially when we, nor Liv have done anything wrong, and are not involved in the crime that led to his death. Besides that, from what I understand the police haven't began interviewing people yet, his body was just found this morning. So they're not even sure what they're dealing with at this time, as far as motive or suspects."

Fitz agrees as he says, "I like your approach Abby. Not that yours wasn't good Jarrod. But hers makes more sense. Because there are too many unknown variables in this situation right now, so moving prematurely could cause more problems than just waiting to see what happens. Do you see our point Jarrod?"

He nods as he replies, "Yes sir. I do. I didn't mean to overstep, my apologies." Fitz nods acknowledging him as he responds, "No problem Jarrod. I appreciate your input and thought process. I will check with Liv tonight, while we follow the situation closely. And, as you said Abby, when it comes up in the press we will address it by simply giving condolences."

She agrees as she replies, "Yes sir. I will get started on drafting a general statement, and keep it handy." He responds, "Good idea. Now, if there isn't anything else, I have to finish these next two briefs before my 1pm meeting." They both nod and excuse themselves from the room, and Fitz grabs his phone to text his love.

When they get into the hall Jarrod asks, "Did you really have to throw me under the bus Abby?" She replies, "Jarrod, I didn't throw you under the bus. You stepped out in front of a damn train when you insinuated Liv was unable to handle this situation. You can't blame me for him biting your head off. "

He has to admit, he did walk right into that one. She sees him thinking as she responds, "Look, you're doing really well. Don't sweat it. When it comes to things like this, just follow mine or Liv's lead. While you handle the political wrangling. Trust me, we will leave that all up to you."

He appreciates the advice, and feels better about the interaction as he says, "Okay. Thanks Abby." She smiles at him as she responds, "You're welcome. I better go get started on that statement; I'm confident his death is going to be the topic of conversation first thing tomorrow." He agrees as he says, "Good luck. If you need any help, let me know." She nods as she says, "Thanks. I will. See you later." He walks off to his office as he replies, "Bye."

Meanwhile, back in the oval. Fitz sent his love a text to ask her about Warren's death. She confirms she knows about it, but can't talk right now because they're working on some of the details, before the police come around snooping.

That's his lady, he thinks. She's always a step ahead of the game, and as he told Jarrod, she's the best in the business hands down. And, can handle the likes of Rosen with both her hands tied behind her back easily.

Knowing she needs to prepare for her verbal sparring match with him that's sure to take place sooner rather than later, given the public discourse between them. He lets her go, advising he will chat with her later and she can catch him up on what she's found out.