Hey everybody, y'all all right? I'm not sure if you can tell, but I'm running out of steam with this story. That never happens. I know there are so many other side stories I could tell, but when I started I had zero intention of AWS going on for this many chapters. That is why my next chapter will definitely be my last. I have absolutely enjoyed writing this version of Fitz and Olivia, and I love that you have enjoyed it too.

As always, thank you so much for your kind reviews and your PMs, they're why I've kept writing AWS this long, even the unhinged ones. This chapter is a filler and picks up where Epilogue 6 left off. There isn't a lot of dialogue, but there is a lot going on, and it moves the story toward it's end. Let me know what you think.

Happy reading.

TBOT

Part II

XXX

The diagnosis from the team of doctors at UM Medical Center was good news to everyone but Fitz. Although the injury was not season ending, he had four rib fractures on the right side of his chest which were clearly seen on the CT scan at the hospital, so he couldn't argue with the doctors to allow him back on the field anytime soon. He was also fortunate that there were no punctures to his lung. The doctors had decided that he should be placed on injured reserve and would probably miss four or five games. It would all come down to how long it took his injuries to heal, and when the Team medical staff, and Fitz's independent physician were convinced that he could take a hit, wearing a rib protector, without the risk of serious re-injury. The plan was to have him ready in time for the playoffs.

Fitz wasn't happy about being unable to play, but the trade-off was being able to spend more time at home with his wife and son. The first week, the Team's bye week, he spent in bed on meds for the pain and inflammation. He'd never really liked taking medications, but he wanted to get back to Ashburn as soon as he could. This pissed his wife off. While he was ready to get back out on the field, she was worried about the next injury. This injury was the second time she'd felt helpless and terrified watching her husband, and she never wanted to feel that way again. She'd kept her feelings to herself and didn't say anything to him, but she was ready for him to leave the game...for good.

By the second week he was able to sit up a little more comfortably, move around more and gingerly hold his son on his left side. He was still unable to practice but joined team meetings and watched film sessions via Zoom. With Olivia and Bert in the house, he had no choice but to follow doctor's orders.

Ty started the first game after the bye week because Brice was injured in the same game that put Fitz on injured reserve. He injured his throwing shoulder, and Ty had to finish the game. It was an away game and Fitz and Cruz watched in the media room, while Olivia joined the ladies at Benny's home to watch while they also put together care packages for a local women's shelter.

Ty led the Team to a win that Sunday, and the next. By the fourth week of his convalescence, Fitz felt well enough to watch the game from the Team sideline. Constance and JR were in town to see their son, and to watch Ty start, and Olivia decided to join them. Eli and Maya were only too happy to watch their grandson, and since it was an early game, everyone would be returning to the Pope's home for Sunday dinner.

Olivia sat watching her husband during the game, not paying too much attention to the action on the field. Fitz was back in his element, either sitting or standing depending on whether the offense had the ball. He was still captain and involved in decision making, so he huddled with the offense whenever there was a time-out. He was still sexy in the sweats, a long sleeve Team t-shirt and a baseball cap he wore. She'd helped him into the shirt the way she had each day since he was injured. He hated it but she reminded him of all he'd done for her after she'd given birth to their son. In sickness and in health, babe.

"Your eyes haven't left Fitz," Joey teased Olivia, nudging her shoulder, breaking her concentration.

"I just worry about him because he wants to play so bad."

"Well there's no way to fix his injury, it has to heal on its own. But I'm sure the doctors and the trainers are making sure he'll be ready for the playoffs."

Olivia nodded, agreeing with Joey. "Since Ty's playing so well they're thinking of keeping Fitz out in the first round of the playoffs to give him more time to heal. He'll definitely be ready for the conference finals, and the Super Bowl."

"The Super Bowl, huh?" Joey said smiling at Olivia. "You're quite confident, Mrs. Grant."

Olivia's grin was huge. "I sure am. You have seen my husband play, haven't you?"

Joey laughed out loud, nodding. "Girl, he's lucky to have you in his corner."

"Yes he is!" They gave each other high fives and then turned back to the action on the field.

XXX

After Olivia received her contract from MSNBC, and a few changes were made, she finally signed it and began her new career as an on-air legal analyst. Fitz was still on injured reserve and was home most days. His routine of spending the Team's off day in Ashburn, watching film, had changed, so while she was on air, Fitz and Cruz watched her on the television in their favorite room. He always watched and listened to his wife intently, and would send texts complimenting her, or to make a few suggestions during breaks. Some made her laugh out loud, and others challenged her and made her think about what she would say once they returned from commercial break.

She'd also had her first in-studio panel at the network's D.C. office. A car had been sent for her, and since Fitz had an appointment for weekly treatment that day, she dropped their son off with her parents. They were always ready and available to watch their grandson. When she finished for the evening, her husband was waiting for her. Together they left for dinner at the Pope's where they were joined by Joey and Julian. Of course the main topic of discussion was Cruz Grant, and then his mother's television appearance.

If Olivia didn't have to be on-air, Fitz would take his wife out to lunch or whatever she wanted to do, while Bert watched their son. She rarely wanted to leave her baby so most of the time Cruz tagged along with his parents. They visited several boutiques and stores around Great Falls because Olivia was on a mission to find the perfect "Baby's First Christmas" ornament for their Christmas tree. It took a while but they still managed to find special ornaments for her and Fitz, and a few others for their little family. The hope was, as Cruz and any other children they might have grew older, they would choose ornaments and then help to decorate the tree.

They also had dinner together every night, and since Fitz had been advised that he needed to walk around and move his shoulders occasionally to prevent mucus from building up in his lungs, some evenings, after dinner, they would bundle their son up in his stroller and walk their property. The fresh, crisp air was good for father and son.

Overall, their new arrangement was working well. Fitz was becoming more and more comfortable with the idea of Olivia working. That was probably because she was working from home and he got to see her all day, everyday. Around the city Olivia was known as Fitzgerald Grant's wife first, and an MSNBC analyst second. She wasn't happy about that but there wasn't much she could do about it.

Olivia absolutely loved her new job, and also loved doing her hair and make-up, and dressing up for her segments. Besides a few nerves during her first appearance, she fit right in. She was also happy to be doing what she loved again. It was so rewarding and she'd missed the interactions with other lawyers, and was grateful for the opportunity. Getting back to the law and having the chance to enjoy a deeper dive with other lawyers and legal analysts on a myriad of topics, was her way of helping others in a different way, and keeping her legal mind sharp.

She had even been able to go toe to toe with three of her former law school professors on a few panels, and enjoyed being able to apply her deep knowledge of criminal justice, police reform and civil rights to each segment. They were all impressed, but not at all surprised because Olivia Pope had been an extraordinary student at Georgetown Law. Her new job was to help the average American understand the rule of law, and why it mattered. She'd been asked if she had a chance to study the issues before each show, and she had to explain that as an attorney, she'd spent her career studying the issues.

The reviews on her appearances were great, and most viewers liked not only her objectivity, but also the dignity and humanity she displayed when she discussed that day's topic. Knowing that millions of people tuned in, and were interested in what she had to say made her feel like more than just Fitz's wife and Cruz's mother.

It was humbling that the producers were interested in her opinion, but Fitz constantly reminded her that she was a badass attorney, tenacious and beautiful, and everyone could see it. He also loved seeing her beautiful face on the televisions around the Team facility, when he was there for treatment, and bragging about his wife to anyone who would listen.

They were also able to host Thanksgiving dinner in Great Falls since Fitz was home, something that definitely wouldn't have happened if he was playing. Everyone was able to fuss over the family's newest addition, but Cruz didn't seem to mind. Fitz had even prepared gumbo, which his father-in-law had taught him to make, remembering, as always, to put a little without seafood aside for his wife. It had taken longer to prep because his sous chef had walked into the kitchen wearing tiny shorts and a Team t-shirt and he couldn't help but wrap his muscular arms around her, pressing the uninjured side of his body against hers and placing slow kisses along her neck. It added more heat to the kitchen.

"Do we really need gumbo, babe?" she asked just above a whisper.

"I could make it tomorrow morning?" he sighed. "But I need to get started now, everyone's expecting Eli's gumbo." He kissed her once more before releasing her from his arms. "I'm looking forward to everyone's reaction when they find out I made the gumbo. We can finish this later."

"Promise?"

"Pinky promise," he said, then swatted her ass. "Now get to chopping the onion, bell pepper and celery, woman, while I start the roux. I will definitely honor my promise later." He would make his wife come without having sex...again.

She laughed while pulling out a knife and cutting board, looking forward to later.

Fitz made gumbo, while both Olivia's grandmother's, Olivia and Carolyn, insisted on making the desserts, and the rest of the meal was catered. The couple loved that their families were able to come together to give thanks, and continued the traditions they'd both learned as children, while creating a few new ones of their own.

Olivia definitely wasn't happy her husband was injured, but his recovery time had allowed him to spend more time at home with her, their son and their families. It also allowed her to get a glimpse of what their life would be like once he retired.

XXX

As the Christmas holidays approached, Olivia went into full-on decorating mode. It was her favorite time of year and also Cruz's first Christmas, but it was more for her and Fitz, and their families. She had already ordered matching pajamas for the three of them, and her husband had grudgingly agreed to wear them and take pictures with her and their son. Obviously Cruz was too young to understand the concept of the holiday and the magic, but like his first birthday, it would be a great memory for his parents, and his mother wanted to make it special for him. Everyone was happy to have a little one around to celebrate. The grandparents were so excited and argued that just because he didn't know the meaning of Christmas, he wasn't too young to receive gifts. Fitz and Olivia knew they were going to have to rein them in.

The week after Thanksgiving they'd returned to the same tree farm in Centreville that they'd visited the year before, to select a tree. Cruz was bundled up and asleep in the Fitz's arms while father and son followed Olivia around as she searched for the perfect tree. When she finally found it, she and her husband stood with their arms around each other watching the attendant cut it down. Fitz had laughed because it was taller than the tree she'd chosen the year before.

Last year this scene had been a hope and a dream for Fitz, but here they were, a year later with their son, a family, choosing a tree for their home. He kissed her hair, thinking his life couldn't be any more perfect.

Later, after the tree had been delivered and set up in the two story foyer, Olivia fired up the Christmas music and they decorated the twelve foot Blue Spruce with the many heirloom ornaments from her childhood, the ones she'd collected over the years, the new ones they'd bought for their family and the special one for their son.

Fitz brought in the safety rolling ladder, secured it to the floor and stood nervously watching as his wife climbed to the top. He couldn't risk another injury falling from a ladder and had even suggested hiring professional decorators but Olivia wasn't having it. She reminded him that before he came into her life, she'd always decorated her tree without any help. So he watched her carefully hang ornaments at the top of the tree and finally the angel topper, and was happy when she climbed down and was on solid ground again. The couple laughed, sang and flirted openly and unabashedly with one another, while finishing with the decorations, as their son slept nearby in his infant seat.

They finally managed to finish and sat on the floor of the foyer admiring their handiwork. Fitz's arms were draped around his wife, who sat between his legs with her back partially against the left side of his chest, nursing their son, who snuggled into his mother, clenching and unclenching his tiny fists around her shirt. Cruz stared up at her with pure trust and love in those silver gray doe eyes. She leaned down and softly kissed his forehead. Every time he looked at her that way, her heart swelled and she couldn't contain all the love she had for him. It was intense and everyday her son still found new ways to grip her heart tighter. She had never known a love like this.

Olivia sighed then laid her head back on her husband's shoulder.

"Happy?"

She nodded. "I'm deliriously happy." Her contented voice and the smile on her face reflected the truth of her words.

"Me too." Fitz hugged her closer to his left side. "You and our son are all I need to make me happy."

Olivia nodded. She couldn't have agreed more.

XXX

While Fitz was on injured reserve, he and Olivia had once again attended the Christmas party at Children's National Hospital, where she got to see little Evan again, who wasn't so little anymore. He still had a huge crush on her, and never left her side. They'd also attended the Wives Club and Team events in the community. Olivia and the other wives arranged donated toys for the Toy Drive, while Fitz and Team members collected food items for the food drive. They had also attended the Team and MSNBC holiday parties, and Joey's birthday party, where they'd danced and had a great time. Once again Benny had done her thing. It was nice to be able to hang with people who had nothing to do with the Team organization and they both enjoyed themselves, but neither could wait to get back to their son in Great Falls, who was being cared for by his Grant grandparents.

During this time, Fitz was healing nicely and gradually working to get back on the field. But the more time he spent at home with his family, the less time he wanted to spend in Ashburn with the team, and that surprised him.

XXX

Almost two months later…

The Team was headed back to the Super Bowl for the second time in two years. Fitz had played in the second half of the game in the first round divisional playoff game after Ty threw his second pick six. He was a little rusty after not playing for over a month, but it didn't take him long to get back into his groove. He'd had to play from behind, as usual, but he still got the job done. Olivia had never been prouder of him, or happier to board a plane to get out of the below freezing temperatures in Wisconsin. Joey and Julian were keeping Cruz and she couldn't wait to get home to her baby.

As he'd done the previous year, Fitz had his team take care of flights, tickets and lodging in New Orleans for his family. He and Olivia had gone back and forth whether to bring Cruz with them, but in the end they both knew they couldn't leave him. Aside from pictures on their phones, that they'd shared with very few people, no one had seen their baby. They'd managed to keep pictures of him away from the media, but Cruz Grant was about to make his public debut. He was almost four months old and growing so fast, his parents couldn't believe it. His personality was already shining through, and it was obvious he was going to be laid back like his father. He was already laughing out loud and Fitz loved nothing more than to do silly things to hear the sound that they both loved.

The baby was also smart and huge at sixteen pounds, grabbing everything in sight and semi-rolling over. He was such a good and beautiful baby, and rarely cried unless he was hungry or needed a diaper change. He had a warm olive skin tone, locks of soft blonde and brown curls, long eyelashes, and deep dimples that he hadn't inherited from either of his parents. Their laid back little guy had been sleep trained and was now sleeping through the night. As far as his parents were concerned, he was perfect. The baby had yet to travel so Fitz and Olivia were nervous about him flying. Babies and air travel could both be unpredictable, and didn't always mix.

The Grant and Pope families would all be traveling by private plane to New Orleans where Fitz had rented a home in the Garden District. Since he had to stay in the team hotel, he wanted his wife to have the amenities of home while caring for their son. Only their parents, Joey, Julian and T.C. knew where she was staying.

XXX

New Orleans…

On the Wednesday before the big game, the Grant family flew into New Orleans aboard the company jet. Cruz surprised them all by sleeping the entire two and a half hour flight. Of course he woke up on the way to the rental house, hungry, and Olivia had to nurse him immediately. When they reached the house, Cruz stayed with his grandparents while Olivia and Joey went to the boutique that was providing her outfit for the annual Player's Wives Fashion Show. She needed to be fitted before the show.

Fitz and his teammates had been in the Crescent City for a week and the city was alive with people in town for the Super Bowl. There were parties, parades and people everywhere. Unlike Miami, Olivia was now a mother and wasn't really interested in hanging out, and any free time her husband had was going to be spent at the rental house with her and Cruz.

Although Fitz was busy with team obligations, he had kept his word and would be supporting his wife by escorting her in the fashion show. The event was being held on Friday morning at Gallier Hall, and was sold out. Everyone was speculating if Fitz would make an appearance.

XXX

Friday morning…

Olivia Pope-Grant stood at the top of the makeshift runway, wearing Tom Ford's iconic velvet suit from 1996, and taking in the loud cheers from the crowd. The suit had been modernized and altered with a different cut, and shorts, giving it a sexy new look. It was magenta, with a velvet peak lapel jacket with and silk satin details, along with matching tailored shorts. They'd paired it with a sky blue stretch silk satin button shirt which was knotted at the waist, exposing her chest, along with parts of her stomach and waist.

Her runway look was completed with hot pink satin ankle strap sandals. Her hair had been parted on the side and pulled back into a sleek ponytail, and the makeup artist had given her sultry eyelids and a nude lip. She was positively stunning.

When she'd seen the suit for the first time, she immediately began shaking her head. It was something Joey would wear, and they'd never had the same taste in clothes. But her bestie had convinced her that she had the body for it, and the boutique's employees agreed before quickly helping her try it on, not giving her a chance to change her mind. As she stood staring at her reflection in the mirror, she had to admit that she looked great. Her husband was right, what baby fat? He would also be surprised, and so would the rest of her family when they saw what she wearing.

Olivia was nervous, at first, when she stepped onto the runway and saw all the smiling, familiar faces in the crowd. But then she reached out her hand to someone offstage. The crowd of mostly women went wild when her handsome husband and Super Bowl quarterback stepped into view, taking the hand she offered. Fitz was handsome in his own Tom Ford suit in gray. He wore a black shirt with no tie, and a pocket square in black and sky blue. He smiled at his sexy, gorgeous and elegant wife, and she winked at him. Together they made a beautiful couple. As promised, Fitz held his wife's hand so she wouldn't end up face down on the runway. Olivia strutted down the runway, on the arm of her husband, like a pro, and Fitz couldn't help the huge grin plastered on his face as they walked to the bass-pounding beat of the music.

Joey, Maya, Constance and T.C. were seated in the front row, along with Lauren, Tracee, Benny and several other members of the Wives Club, cheering loudly, while Eli and JR were at the rental home happily spending time with their grandson.

After their walk down and back up the runway, and then the finale, Olivia said goodbye to her husband before he was whisked away to do a few interviews, and then to Metairie for practice. As much time as it had taken to prepare for a one minute walk, up and down the runway, she'd had a great time and was so happy she'd volunteered to participate in this year's show. It would be her first, and her last.

XXX

Over the next few days, while Joey, Julian, along with a few of the Grant and the Pope cousins partied on Bourbon Street, Fitz and Olivia spent time alone while Cruz hung out with his grandparents. The chef Fitz had hired for the rental had prepared dinner for the couple each night. It almost felt like home.

Everything was so different from the previous year. They were now married and were also parents, and they also knew what to expect. This year it was just about staying in the present, in the moment, and relishing all the memories. Fitz wasn't nominated for an NFL Honor this year so they didn't attend the ceremony. They chose to just keep things low key before Sunday, when things would get crazy.

On Saturday, Olivia and members of hers and Fitz's families spent an hour on the field at the Dome taking pictures, while the Team took their official Super Bowl photo. She was also able to see members of the Wives Club again. They all teased her about being incognito since the fashion show, but she laughed it off. She hadn't hung out at all, although they had all met at Café du Monde, in the French Quarter, early Thursday morning for hot, buttery beignets and coffee with chicory. They'd caught up, laughed and people watched, and Lauren announced she was almost four months pregnant, due in mid-July. Everyone was thrilled and stood and exchanged a round of excited hugs, congratulations and more loud laughter.

A few hours after the families and the players left the Dome, Fitz made his way to the rental home to hang with his wife, son and members of their families. The chef prepared a huge meal and everyone sat around eating, laughing and enjoying themselves.

Fitz was having a good time but he also had an early curfew. When the car came to pick him up, he said his goodbyes and got a huge laugh when everyone lined up near the front door to give him a hero's send-off. They applauded, cheered and wished him good luck, and he bowed, before making his way outside. It was over the top, and he loved every second of it.

Olivia handed Cruz to Joey then wrapped an arm around her husband's waist, and walked with him to the large, black SUV parked at the curb. They stood silently just holding each other, before Olivia spoke.

"This is it."

Fitz kissed her softly, pressing his forehead to hers. "This is it."

Olivia wrapped her arms around his neck and leaned back so she could see his face. "You are going to destroy Buffalo tomorrow."

"I love that you believe in me." He kissed her again.

"I will always believe in you, Fitzgerald Grant." She kissed him deeply, and felt his dick stiffen as it poked her. Quickly stepping back, she laughed and said, "You should go," playfully shaking a finger at him.

"You're right. I've got to get my head in the game. Both of them."

Olivia laughed louder. She couldn't believe Fitz was so relaxed the night before the big game.

She stepped closer. "Tomorrow, babe," she whispered near his ear. "I have been so horny for you all week."

"So I'm just a sex toy for you, huh?" He joked.

"Among other things." She patted his butt.

"Ooh, I feel so violated." He grinned and Olivia laughed.

"I love you, Livvie."

"I love you too." Olivia caressed his chin. "Go out there tomorrow and play with everything in you, don't hold anything back. Leave it all on the field. The pressure to win the game is on Buffalo this year and you have nothing to prove to anyone, Mr. Grant. Okay?"

She was right. He had nothing to prove, nothing to win and nothing to lose.

"Okay, Mrs. Grant. Come here." Fitz pulled her back into his arms for one last kiss and she felt him again.

Olivia pushed him away with a laugh. "Go, Fitz, before we do something we shouldn't."

Fitz nodded. "I'll talk to you tomorrow after we win."

Olivia simply nodded back as the driver opened the door and Fitz climbed onto the back seat. The driver closed the door and hurried round to the driver's side, then slid behind the wheel. The vehicle pulled away from the curb and Olivia stood on the sidewalk watching until the tail lights disappeared around the corner.

XXX

Super Bowl Sunday…

Olivia, Cruz and the grandparents were driven on a golf cart to the gate where an elevator took them up to their suite, which Fitz had purchased. Eli wore his sleeping grandson on his chest in a carrier. The baby was covered with a light blanket. He was too heavy for his mother to carry, and strollers were not allowed in the Dome. They were later joined in the suite by the rest of their family members.

By the time team introductions were made, Olivia was relaxed and ready for the game to begin. She'd texted Fitz earlier simply saying: You've been here before…play like it. I love you.

Less than an hour later, Olivia held a now wide awake Cruz in her arms and stood in anticipation at seeing Fitz. Mother and son were both wearing Team jerseys with their last name and Fitz's number on the back, and jeans. While Olivia wore brown suede knee boots, Cruz wore tiny brown suede moccasins and he was absolutely adorable.

Olivia cheered as the starters were introduced. She looked around wondering where her friends were sitting in the Dome. As team quarterback, captain, and reigning Super Bowl MVP, Fitz was introduced last and he ran to join his teammates. The Team fans cheered wildly and Olivia held Cruz up in her arms pointing to his father. Fitz looked up toward the vicinity of the suite and winked. After the national anthem and the coin toss, everyone settled in for a good game.

Ty stood on the sidelines in uniform and a baseball cap, holding a tablet, and talking to Fitz and the quarterbacks coach. He'd done a tremendous job starting while Fitz's ribs healed but he'd told Fitz that he was happy when he returned because if the Team had lost in the first round of the playoffs, the entire city would've blamed him. He was right.

The Team played an exciting game and by halftime was up by seventeen points. Fitz was clicking on all cylinders and Malcolm, Drew and Jake were exposing the other team's secondary, and Victor had run for over one hundred yards. There was no way they were losing this game. After Silk Sonic performed, the third quarter began and the Team picked up where they left off. Fitz quickly threw two more touchdowns.

Olivia was enjoying this Super Bowl a lot more because there was no pressure to win a ring like last year.

By the beginning of the fourth quarter, with the Team up by twenty-eight points, everyone thought Fitz was going to be pulled from the game, and were surprised when he wasn't. Olivia knew he was going to play until the clock read triple zeroes. The Team was headed for a repeat, something only seven other teams had done, and no way was he going to be on the sideline when the final whistle blew.

With five minutes left in the game, Olivia left the suite and went to the Team family room to change Cruz's diaper and to nurse him. When she returned, the bottles of champagne were already popping. She declined the glass Harrison offered and turned to the field to look at her husband. As the clock ticked down, she watched the Team line up in victory formation in order for Fitz to take a knee, hold the ball and run out the clock. When the clock finally read triple zeroes, the cheers in the suite grew louder. Olivia looked at her son, who was now in a milk coma in JR's arms wearing infant headphones, and sucking on a pacifier. JR smiled and nodded at his daughter-in-law and she returned it with tears streaming down her face.

When her gaze returned to the field she saw the celebration was in full effect as Team members jumped all over each other. Her tears came as she watched her husband smile and embrace his teammates. He had done it again.

Maya silently approached her daughter and wrapped an arm tightly around her waist. "Don't cry Olivia Carolyn. You did good, baby." She wiped her daughter's tears.

Olivia shook her head. "These are happy tears, Mom. I'm so happy for Fitz." She squeezed her mother, happy she was there with her.

A few minutes later, security came to escort her down to the field. She was joined by Constance and JR, who still held Cruz and strong armed anyone who got too close. Once they made it to the field, they looked around trying to find Fitz in the crowd with confetti streaming everywhere, but he spotted them first and ran to join his family. He lifted Olivia into his arms and spun her around.

"We did it, Livvie!"

She wrapped her arms around his neck, and whispered near his ear. "No baby, you did it. You were amazing."

Fitz grinned at her and then kissed her softly. "Where's Cruz? Where's my son?" He looked around her and spotted his father with Cruz still asleep in his arms. JR approached the couple.

"Congratulations, son."

"Thanks, Dad." Fitz hugged his father before taking his son into his arms and lightly kissing his forehead.

"Fitzgerald I am so proud of you," Constance said before hugging her son.

"Thank you, Mom," Fitz replied with tears in his eyes.

T.C., Ty and his parents joined them as they stood listening to the NFL Commissioner, Team owner and Coach Fauci give interviews. The announcement that Fitz was once again Super Bowl MVP was a surprise to no one who'd watched him play. When Olivia attempted to take Cruz, he shook his head and took her hand, leading her to the stage with him, to accept his trophy.

"Well Fitz, congratulations again," the analyst said.

Fitz lifted the trophy in one hand and held it up. "How about that?" he yelled to the cheering crowd.

"Fitz, this is all you play for and when you think about the odds of repeating, and the injury, how special is this night for you?"

"I'm so proud of all these guys, Michael. Repeating is no easy feat. After the injury, the team came together and played with confidence. I think we knew this was going to happen, didn't we?" His teammates all cheered. "I'd like to share this award with you guys." He looked around. "Where's Ty?" The team cheered again as Ty ran up and joined Fitz. "You stepped in when Brice and I were injured and won four out of five games. You are the future." Fitz held out his hand and Ty grabbed him into a bear hug; whatever tension that had existed between them, personally and professionally, was forgotten.

"You hit Malcolm La Blue and Speedy McWilliams twice in the end zone, Jake Maddox once and Victor Fuller caught a pass and run for a touchdown. With all that you've done, where does this rank? Is this the crowning achievement?"

Fitz shook his head. "I'm not making any comparisons, but being here tonight, with this group of guys and winning again is amazing. We came together at the right time, and ended up playing our best game of the year. This team is world champions forever. You can't take it away from us. So thank you, guys. Thank you all."

"There's nothing better than being able to share this with your family, with your wife and your son. Do you agree?"

Fitz looked down at Cruz, still wearing headphones, who was oblivious to what was going on around him, and his eyes filled with tears again. Knowing what he was about to say, Olivia gently rubbed a hand on his bicep letting him know that everything would be okay.

"This feeling is indescribable, Michael. The season started off great, we went through a rough patch and then I got injured. But we never wavered, never stopped believing we'd be here, and now here we are, world champions again." He glanced around him. "My teammates…without you I wouldn't be here. And to the Team fans who stuck by me for twelve years, and a lot of those were not good years either. Thank you."

There were a few chuckles.

"We persevered and brought two championships," he held up two fingers, "home to D.C."

His voice broke and he was quiet for a few seconds. Olivia squeezed his hand as the crowd yelled his name in response to his show of emotions.

"I'm just really feeling intense emotions right now. I think I took a lot of this for granted for many years, and when I suffered the injury to my ribs, reality slapped me in the face and said, 'Don't take this for granted anymore.' When I came back in the divisional round of the playoffs and we won, of course I was happy because I love winning. But now I know that even if we'd lost, and I was able to walk off the field healthy, that would've been okay too."

There was more cheering from the crowd, but most of them were unsure where he was going with his speech.

"I'm not going to speak much longer because we have a little celebrating to do, but I have to thank my wife." He looked at Olivia. "You are my rock, Livvie, and you have supported me since we've been together. I am so grateful for all that you do for our family. Having your support is why I'm here. I know it hasn't always been easy, and I know there were a few times you wanted to smack some sense into to me for being stubborn."

Everyone laughed, including Olivia, who leaned in closer to him. "I love you, Livvie," he said kissing her curls.

"And this little guy here, my son." He looked down at Cruz and the cameras got a tight shot of the sleeping baby sucking on his pacifier. Everyone in the stadium and those at home got their first glimpse of his pride and joy, his baby boy. There was a collective 'aww' from the crowd. "He is the reason I exist."

The crowd cheered loudly and Olivia began to cry again. Fitz finally handed Cruz to his wife and then turned back to the cameras. "My parents are also here tonight. They were there for my very first NFL game and it seems only fitting that they're here for my last."

There was some applause from those who knew what was coming, and confused faces from those trying to comprehend what he was saying. But most in the crowd understood and were shouting, 'No,' and 'Not yet.'

Fitz had made the decision to retire after his last injury. He had been unable to hold his wife and his son, and he never wanted to experience that feeling ever again, for any reason. He'd decided that he didn't need football to make him happy. The thrill was gone. He would always love the game of course, but he didn't need it the way he used to. He wanted and needed his wife and son more. The idea of traveling and being away from his family just didn't appeal to him at all.

As Fitz prepared for the playoffs, he knew in his heart that they would be his last. Not that he couldn't continue to play, he just didn't want to, not anymore. Plus he knew that his career stressed his wife. Besides, he'd almost accomplished everything he'd set out to do this season: make the playoffs and possibly win another Super Bowl. He'd dedicated most of his life to the sport and it had made him a superstar. For many years, football defined him. But he'd had enough. He was walking away healthy and would continue to have a great life without football.

He'd talked to Olivia extensively, and although internally she was screaming and very happy, she also knew that there was a chance that he could change his mind. Of course she hoped he wouldn't. Football was a very violent sport and now he had a wife and son to think about. Naturally she'd had several questions, because she wanted him to be absolutely sure. Plus she knew that some would blame her for his decision, but he needed to make a decision that was right for him, and she was giving him the space to do just that.

One month ago…

Fitz and Olivia lay in bed talking until he became quiet.

"What's on your mind, babe?"

"That obvious, huh?"

Olivia raised a brow. "Like I don't know you."

He sat up and looked into her beautiful eyes. "I'm retiring when the season ends."

Olivia sat up quickly, eyes wide. "What? Why?" She was both excited and confused, and couldn't believe that he was just ready to walk away, especially after signing a three year contract extension. Her husband was an amazing athlete, and she didn't want him to resent her or their baby later for the decision he made. That was constantly on her mind.

"I know you're trying to make sense of my decision," he said. "But why not, Livvie? It's time. Football has been good to and for me, but spending the rest of my life with you is even better."

"You're right, Fitz, I am. You love football, and you just signed a contract extension. Why now? Why do you want to retire? I mean you can still play and you looked good out there on Sunday, even though you hadn't expected to play. If you hadn't, the Team would've lost in the divisional round of the playoffs. You recovered fully and quickly, quicker than most people expected."

He gave her a tender look. "You're right, I love football. But I love you more. And I think there comes a point in your life where you think, you know what, I've had my fill and it's enough, time to go, time to move into other parts of my life." He sighed. "My heart for the game has changed. You and our son are more important to me. I've been lucky to recover from all my injuries over the years, but one tackle, I go down the wrong way and then I'm hurt again. Who knows, maybe next time I won't be so lucky. This was a wake-up call, Livvie. Also, being home with you and Cruz for a month made me realize that I no longer want to be on the road all the time, missing out on everything," he explained. "I want to be with the two of you more than I want anything else. I just no longer have the desire to play beyond this season. And you know I don't play this game for the money, although it does feel good knowing that I'm worth that much to the Team owner." He grinned at her and she rolled her eyes.

"Fitz I just don't want you to have any regrets. I know how that feels."

He ran a finger down the length of her nose. "Livvie, I've had enough of waking up on Monday morning after a game with bruises and cuts, and sore from a few hits. After that last injury I thought, okay, how much longer do I want to make this commitment? Obviously I've committed to playing through the playoffs, but I also have other commitments and obligations to my family. Until you, and now Cruz, came into my life I didn't stress about not being able to spend Thanksgiving, Christmas or birthdays with my family because I was doing what I loved. That was the payoff. Now I can't imagine not being able to celebrate those things and more with you and our son. We have many more birthdays and holidays together as a family."

Olivia reached for a tissue from the box on her night table and wiped her tears.

"Can you really live without football, Fitz?"

Her question gave Fitz pause. He didn't want her to think he was giving up the game because of her; he was leaving because it was time for him to walk, not limp, away. "What I don't want to live without is you and our son. I love you and Cruz more than I love myself," he said lifting her hand and placing it on his heart. "And now I'll be home full-time with my son. You told me that MSNBC wanted you to start doing more live panels in the studios in D.C. and New York City. I know how much you love what you do. Cruz and I can travel with you and hang out with my parents while you work."

Olivia smiled through her tears. "They'd love that."

Fitz nodded. "Or, me and my boy can stay here and hang out while you travel. We'll definitely miss you, but Livvie I want you to do what makes you happy."

"What if I just want to lay in bed with you and watch Netflix?"

"Then I'm making the popcorn."

Olivia chuckled. "Thank you, baby." She laid her head on his chest, listening to his heartbeat and hugged him by his waist, snuggling deeper into his side.

Fitz wrapped his arms around her tightly, burying his face in her hair and sighed. He just wanted to love his wife in peace. She deserved it. She'd done her part, putting aside her own personal ambitions and sacrificing to support his career, and his wish that she stay home with their son. Compromise was the critical in any relationship and Olivia had done that and more. There was no other choice for him.

Olivia lay awake while her husband's eyes closed, and his deep, even breathing told her that he was asleep. But sleep didn't come easy for her. Though he said he was ready to walk away from a career he loved, and wanted to do whatever it took to accommodate her job, she could still see some trepidation in his eyes. Would he end up like Michael Jordan or Tom Brady, athletes who couldn't stay retired? Only time would tell.

A few days later, Fitz shared his decision with his parents, and as expected, they were supportive, and relieved. Next were a few family members, and then his management team, which included his publicist, Vivian. They'd agreed that she would spin something to keep the public from thinking that his decision was because of Olivia, or his injury. He didn't really care, because he was done, but he wanted to protect his wife. The Team's coach and the front office were initially shocked, but they knew he hadn't made his decision lightly.

Coach Fauci had tried to get Fitz to think about his decision a little while longer by telling him he was the heart and soul of the team. Fitz had thanked him and responded that maybe he was, but he was also the heart and soul of his family, and he was choosing them. His wife had been so supportive, and now it was time for him to return the favor. The coach finally realized there was no changing his superstar quarterback's mind.

He didn't break the news to his teammates until after the NFC Championship game. Surprisingly, there weren't any leaks.

Current…

Fitz continued to speak over the cheers and a few boos. "I have nothing left to accomplish on the football field, and what better way to leave the game than on top. Again, thank you to everyone who has supported me over the last twelve years. I've loved every moment of it, but it's time. Thank you, I love you all."

He waved to the cheering, and stunned fans before taking Cruz from Olivia's arms. The baby was now wide awake and looking around with those big, beautiful, silver gray eyes. He then took his wife's hand and they left the stage together for the last time. There were questions shouted toward the couple but they silently continued to walk toward the tunnel and their new future.