AN: I guess it's time to say I don't own anything Scandal related. Forgot to announce there would not be an update last weekend. Will not update when I am on vacation. Will let you know the next time there won't be an update. Reader575, the reference to a father coming back after 15 years was only intended to show that it is taboo for a woman to leave her family. Look at how Olivia was denigrated and she was only gone for two months. BTW, I don't have any plans to introduce Maura's primary family. Cleo, your reviews slay me. KKimberly49, glad you hung in there. Guest, that was not the first time they had sex since they returned from Mirage. Enjoy reading the reviews. Here we go.
Chapter 15. Working Girls
Finding the right plumbing contractor to replace the old lead-based pipes in the 150 homes in Springfield Heights is proving to be a long and arduous task. The size and scope of the project requires Olivia to do her due diligence before awarding the contract to one of the plumbers on her list. After reviewing the qualifications of 20 contractors, only six made it to her short list. Now that she has completed a comprehensive analysis of the six prospective contractors' assets and liabilities she is ready to schedule one-on-one meetings to get to know each of them. The residents of Springfield Heights deserve a reputable and empathetic contractor to repair the long-standing plumbing problems in their homes. They have suffered long enough and Olivia will not risk disappointing them by hiring someone who is incompetent or untrustworthy. The people who donated money and government officials have entrusted her to hire the right person for the job. Her reputation is riding on the success or failure of this major project.
So, for the past few hours she has been sitting at the desk in their study drafting the letter to request a meeting with each contractor. She rolls her neck from side to side trying to remove the kinks formed from sitting for hours. Ready to call it a night, she proofreads the letter one last time before emailing it to Mona with instructions for sending it to the contractors. As she stands from the chair, she lets out a big yawn and the baby gives her a swift kick in the left side. She rubs her side and smiles, thinking that is definitely the signal for them to go to bed.
After checking in Cena, she walks into the bedroom, which is completely dark and cool, the way Fitz likes it. He is snoring lightly as she feels her way to her side of the bed. She is exhausted and cannot wait to fall into a deep sleep. So she curls into her husband's side, inhales the scent of his favorite soap, and waits for sleep to overtake her. As she begins to doze off, the baby gives her another stiff kick in her back, so she turns onto her left side, trying to get comfortable. But the baby kicks again, this time in her left side, and she turns back onto her right side. So the kicking and tossing and turning goes on and on for what seems like an eternity. Mentally and physically exhausted, she looks at the bright blue numbers on the clock sitting on her nightstand and sees that she has been trying to fall asleep for over an hour.
"Do you want another pillow?"
"No, that won't help. I can't sleep, Fitz. I'm so miserable", tears rolling down her face. "The baby is laying on my back and has been kicking me everywhere for over an hour. It's like a party is going on in there."
"Get up", rolling out of bed and walking over to the armoire where he pulls out a bathing suit. But Olivia curls tighter into a ball and continues to cry.
"I can't get up. I'm so big and bloated I won't ever be able to get up again."
Fitz pulls his distressed wife to the sitting position and begins to remove her nightgown.
"What are you doing?" She whines.
"We're going swimming."
"Swimming? I can't swim. I can't move."
"You don't have to swim. I'll carry you. Swimming will help you and the baby to relax. Then we can all get some sleep."
"Are you sure, Fitz?"
"Yes."
He has no idea if his plan will work but he has to do something to help his uncomfortable wife and playful baby relax. So he carries Olivia down the long staircase, out the French doors that lead to the patio, and down to the pool. He sets her on the edge of the pool and lets her feet dangle in the water.
"Where are you going?" She asks weepily, looking over her shoulder as he walks away.
Fitz pulls his tee shirt over his head and tosses it onto one of the chaise lounges. Wearing only his boxers, he walks back to the pool's edge and slides into the water.
"I can't swim, Fitz."
"Hold on to me", placing his hands on her hips and sliding her into the warm water.
Olivia wraps her arms and legs around him the way Cena does when she is sad or sleepy. With her belly resting on his chest he glides them through the water and chuckles when he feels a kick from their overly active baby.
"He is pretty active tonight", walking them around the pool.
"He?"
"Well you do pee a lot, Liv", and she rolls her eyes.
"I shouldn't have eaten that second helping of your dish tonight. He hates spicy foods." And they both burst out laughing at her reference to the baby's gender.
Fitz carries Olivia to the deep end of the pool so her belly is submerged in the water. He thinks the water should absorb some of the baby's weight, give Olivia the support she needs, and lull the baby to sleep. And, after about 45 minutes of walking and talking, the water seems to be doing its job.
"This is nice", resting her head on his shoulder.
"Do you think he's sleeping?" Fitz asks in a whisper, not wanting to awaken the baby if he is sleeping.
"I think so", she says softly. "He hasn't kicked for a while."
Fitz nods.
"I think I'm ready to get out now, Fitz."
He treads slowly through the water, letting the water wash across her stomach on their way back to the side of the pool. Feeling relaxed and a little sleepy, she smiles widely as she sits on the edge of the pool.
"Are you ready to go back to bed?"
"Pucker babe", wrapping her legs around his waist and pulling him close. They kiss deeply until Olivia shivers from the cool night air and goosebumps form on her arms.
"I'll get you a towel", climbing from the pool and walking toward the lounge chairs.
"Cena would be upset if she knew we were swimming."
"Well I hardly call what we just did swimming", pulling on his tee shirt.
"You know what I mean. She loves the water. She would stay in the pool all day if we allowed her."
"She would", extending his hand, pulling her to her feet, and wrapping the towel around her shoulders.
"I'll swim with her when I get back."
"Thank you, babe. I feel so much better now", standing on her toes and kissing him on the chin. "How did you know the water would work?"
"It just makes sense Liv", he says nonchalantly.
Olivia scrunches her face and wonders why he thinks it makes sense. She will have to Google it tomorrow.
"My flight is at 8:45 in the morning. I won't wake you if you're still sleeping. Okay?"
"Did you pack your bag?"
"I did."
"Did you pack your toothbrush?"
"I did."
"Did you pack -?"
"Liv, I'm good. I have everything I need."
"Well, wake me before you leave. You'll be gone for two days - I need to see you before you go."
"I hate leaving you when you're so close."
"I'll be fine, babe."
"Who's going to carry you around in the pool when you can't sleep?"
"I just won't eat anything spicy while you're gone", nudging him in the side with her elbow.
"I just –"
"Don't worry, babe. I'll be fine. We'll be fine."
"If Nora causes any trouble call me right away and I'll have John come over and throw her ass out of here. She can go back to dad's house and cause trouble."
"Nora seems to be in a better place now, babe."
He nods as they walk back into the house, unconvinced that his sister has changed her ways.
XXX
Fitz going away on a business trip for two days opens up the opportunity for Olivia to make some headway buying more things for the baby. While she thinks it is wonderful that Fitz wants to be involved in every aspect of the pregnancy, shopping with her detailed-oriented husband is proving to be more challenging this time around. Being seven-and-a-half months pregnant with their second child, trying to find an appropriate contractor for Springfield Heights, and expanding her Foundation, do not leave her a lot of time to stand in the middle of the baby department and have long discourses with her husband about each item. Before they can buy anything he has to inspect each item carefully, discuss where each item was manufactured, and determine if they are cruelty free. He is driving her crazy because they have not made much progress since they began shopping together. She knows that the pace at which they are going the baby will be here and they will not have everything they need to welcome the little one home. So, whenever she gets the chance, like today, she shops alone, buying as much as possible and stashing her purchases in the unfurnished nursery.
On her way to the check-out counter, Olivia sees an outfit that is perfect for baby Ethan, so she adds it to the pile of clothes she already has for him. She really enjoys buying clothes for Ethan because the boys' clothes are so adorable.
As Olivia pulls into the driveway she knows Abby is going to be upset with her again but she does not care. She pushes the gear shifter to PARK and presses the button to allow the seat to glide back so she can move her protruding stomach from under the steering wheel. She walks to the back of the SUV and grabs the bags from the trunk and Abby swings open the front door, looking at her disapprovingly when she sees all of the bags Olivia is carrying.
"I see you finally got rid of that old jalopy", assessing Olivia's new vehicle.
"Hello to you too, Abigail", pushing her belly past Abby as she walks toward the family room.
Abby sneaks another peek at Olivia's new SUV before closing the door.
"Are you crazy? Have you gone completely mad?" Abby asks, flailing her arms.
"Yes and yes", Olivia laughs hysterically. "Where is my nephew? I want to squeeze his chubby cheeks."
"He ran to his room and hid under the crib when he heard his lunatic aunt was at the door with more stuff for him", relieving Olivia of some of the bags.
"Funny. Real funny, Abby."
"So when did you get the new ride?"
"Fitz bought it over a month ago. And I like it – Cena loves it."
"You see, having money is not such a bad thing after all, Olivia."
Olivia rolls her eyes at her sister-in-law.
"You seem to be in a good mood today, Mrs. Grant."
"I am. Life is good, Mrs. Grant."
They burst out laughing at their old joke.
"Look at this Abby. Isn't it just the cutest thing?" Smiling as she holds up the outfit with the red bow tie for Ethan.
Abby waves her hand dismissively because she has seen it all before. Olivia is always buying something for Ethan.
"So how much stuff have you bought for the baby?" Shaking her head as she walks toward the kitchen.
"Not a lot. I have to sneak and shop without Fitz because everything takes so long when he's with me."
"So things are now good between you and Fitzgerald?" Abby asks, returning to the room carrying a tray with a large pitcher of lemonade and two tall glasses filled with ice. Olivia's eyes grow wide as she watches Abby set the tray onto the coffee table.
"Things are terrific with us - couldn't be better actually", straightening her back as she watches Abby fill the glasses with lemonade. "He's out of town for a couple of days."
"So he's back to traveling?"
"No, just for special clients. Actually, this is the first time he's been away since we came back from Mirage. I miss him already."
Abby rolls her eyes playfully.
"I'm really happy for you", handing Olivia a glass of lemonade as she sits on the sofa next to her sister-in-law. "While I've never been a big fan of Fitzgerald –"
"Abigail -", Olivia says in a warning tone.
"Let me finish, Olivia", holding up her hand to stop Olivia's admonishment. "I wasn't a big fan of Fitzgerald before you went away, but he proved himself while you were gone. He did a fantastic job taking care of Cena. He gets big points for that."
"He even learned how to style Cee's hair and he still wants to do it", Olivia says proudly.
"Olivia, Fitzgerald loves you deeply. The man was devastated when I told him about your depression. He had no idea what you had been going through during your pregnancies. So I have forgiven him for being an asshole."
"There are two sides to every story, Abby. My hands aren't clean."
"As a married women I know there are always two sides to every story. And, because I know there are two sides to every story, and because I know how much you two love each other, I will refrain from being critical of Fitzgerald. He is your husband and I have to respect that. I will respect your marriage."
"Thank you, Abby. I appreciate that."
"Now, tell me what it's like having those other Grant women living in your home? I can't believe Maura finally got up the nerve to leave that man. I never would have seen that coming in a million years."
"It was pretty shocking when Maura showed up on our doorstep and told us she had left Gerry."
"And Jonathan says the old geezer came to your house raising all kinds of hell and Fitzgerald had to rough him up a little."
"Pretty much. He was quite upset, which is understandable if you think about."
"That man is from the Stone Age and he needs to get a grip. But I must say, Maura has finally done something to impress me."
"She's trying to find her way, Abby. This is a significant change for her."
"So what is she going to do? Does she have a plan for her life? She can't live with you and Fitzgerald forever."
"She's going to need some time to work things out. But, I have an idea that might give her something to do."
Abby nods, no longer interested in discussing their mother-in-law.
"So what is that spoiled Nora up to? Is she causing trouble yet?"
"I'll just say Nora has a lot of growing up to do."
Olivia shakes her head at the memory of seeing her sister-in-law and Devon on her family room floor.
"That's for sure", taking a sip of the lemonade. "To be honest, I think something's wrong with her Olivia. I've had my eyes on her for a while."
"Well there certainly is a lot going on with her", not willing to reveal Nora's confidences.
"Well don't let those women cause trouble in your home. Get them out of there if they start any funny business. You and Fitzgerald seem to be in a good place right now and you don't want them messing it up."
Abby looks over at the table next to the sofa when she hears Ethan's cries flowing through the monitor.
"I'll be back. I think your nephew might be hungry."
"Bring him down, Abby. I want to feed him", Olivia says excitedly.
When Abby leaves the room, Olivia eyes the tall, sweating glass of lemonade sitting on the rectangular-shaped bamboo tray. She has been trying to resist the urge to take a sip of the citrus drink because she knows Abby makes the best homemade lemonade, so she throws all caution to the wind and reaches for the glass.
XXX
After enjoying a leisurely morning of shopping and visiting with Abby and Ethan, Olivia goes to the Foundation to prepare for her meeting with Mona and to work on the plans for the new services she wants to provide the community. She leans back in the chair, rubs her stomach, and thinks about how getting involved with the Springfield Heights water crisis has opened up so many opportunities for her to help people. The children who have been affected by drinking the tainted water will need ongoing testing and monitoring to determine the physical and emotional effects from being exposed to lead over time. She shakes her head and makes a note to call Dr. Marianne Harris to discuss the matter further. Glancing quickly at her watch, she makes another note to schedule a meeting with Marcella to discuss the training program.
"Are you ready for me?" Mona asks, tapping the doorframe with her red, ballpoint ink pen.
"Sure. Come on in Mona and have a seat."
As Mona settles into the hard chair next to Olivia's desk she smiles when she looks at her employer's round belly.
"Olivia, I really don't mean any disrespect but you look like you swallowed a watermelon overnight."
"I know, Mona. It's ridiculous. This baby has me eating and drinking and peeing all of the time.
"You're probably having a boy."
"Not you too", shaking her head. "Maura, my mother-in-law, says the same thing. She says that I'm going to have a boy because I pee a lot, and of course Fitz is thrilled by the prospect."
"Well that wives tale is just as good as any", Mona says, smiling and shaking her head.
"Apparently she peed a lot when she was pregnant with Fitz and his brothers."
"How do you think Fitz is going to handle having another child in the house? Everybody knows how much he adores Cena."
"He's excited. You know Fitz has always wanted a lot of kids", she says wistfully.
"You're lucky to have a mother-in-law who is willing to help when the baby comes. I didn't have that kind of support when we had David."
Olivia nods, realizing this is her opening to discuss hiring Maura.
"Speaking of my mother-in-law", Olivia begins slowly. "She's made some changes in her life recently and has been living with Fitz and me for about two months now."
"I had no idea." Mona says in surprise.
"Her daughter, my sister-in-law Nora, is staying with us as well."
"It sounds like you have a full house - and it's about to get fuller", looking at Olivia's stomach again.
"I actually enjoy having them live with us. It makes the house feel much more alive. I didn't have that when I was growing up. Sometimes it got a little lonely being an only child. I didn't want that for Cee."
Mona nods.
"But having someone live in your home, family or not, can prove to be challenging at times."
"You don't have to tell me. Do you remember when my brother Anthony moved in with me and Tom for a while two years ago - after he lost his job?"
Olivia nods, reflecting on that time when Mona was so stressed because her unemployed brother was causing problems in her home.
"Well, as you might recall, things were fine for the first few weeks after he moved in. But once he got comfortable he started showing his true colors. Anthony would hold onto the TV's remote control, which drove Tom crazy because he couldn't watch wrestling." And they burst out laughing.
"Anthony liked to stay up late at night watching TV in the living room with the volume up too loud, which upset Tom because we had to get up early in the morning and go to work. After a while, Anthony stopped cleaning up after himself. I guess he thought Tom and I were his personal maid service. Then he started coming home all hours of the night and bringing his newfound friends with him. Well that was the straw that broke the camel's back. Tom laid down the law and told him, in no uncertain terms, if he couldn't follow the house rules then he would have to leave. Thank goodness my brother found a job and moved out before any real damage was done to our relationship."
Olivia nods slowly.
"So, how long are your in-laws going to live with you?"
"I don't know. We haven't discussed it."
"Well, that's a conversation you might want to have with them – and soon."
Olivia nods again.
"Mona, my mother-in-law has never worked outside of the home in the 45 years she has been married."
"That sounds like a wonderful luxury."
"Everything isn't what it seems, Mona."
"That's true."
"Well, she needs something to do to occupy her time. She doesn't have too much to do so she wants to tag along with Fitz and me whenever we go out. While we don't mind her joining us sometimes …"
Mona nods.
"And, Hildie has threatened to quit because Maura is meddling in how she manages the house."
"It really does sound like your mother-in-law needs something to do."
Olivia inhales deeply and rubs her stomach before making her announcement.
"Mona, I was thinking about hiring Maura to help out here."
"Help out with what?" Mona asks suspiciously. "I thought you said she's never worked anywhere."
"Well, she has never had a paying or full-time position. But she has worked at her church for many years developing Bible study courses."
Mona folds her arms across her chest, tilts her head slightly, and gives Olivia a questioning look that says what do Bible classes have to do with community service?
"I was thinking, perhaps, that Maura could help us to create the training courses for the community organizers program I told you about."
"But she doesn't know anything about community services", Mona retorts.
"No, she doesn't. But I was thinking we could teach her whatever she needs to know."
Mona shrugs her shoulders and leans back in the chair.
"Olivia, I appreciate you letting me know your plans, but this is your call."
"Mona, this is our call. I won't do this if you can't support it – if you're not comfortable with the idea. You're the office manager – you make all of the day-to-day decisions for the Foundation. If you are uncomfortable with Maura working here then I'm sure Fitz and I can find something else for her to do."
Olivia has no idea what else she can find for Maura to do, but she will not force Mona to work with her mother-in-law. She respects and values her employee-friend too much. Mona taps the side of nose with her index finger and thinks about Olivia's idea for a while.
"OK"
"Are you sure, Mona? Please don't feel you have to do this."
"It might be fun having someone else around here since you're only in the office a couple of days a weeks any way. And, you'll be going out on maternity leave soon. So let's do it. Bring on Maura."
"And Mona, Maura will report to you. I will not interfere. Okay?"
"Thanks, Olivia. I appreciate you saying that."
Olivia smiles, happy she has fixed a problem for one of her in-laws.
"Now, I need your opinion on a different matter."
"Sure."
"Nora, my sister-in-law –"
"I don't know if I can take on two of them, Olivia", Mona says, raising her hands in protest.
"No – no – nothing like that. Nora needs to do something to fill her time as well, but not here."
"Once again, no disrespect Olivia, but do these women not know how to take care of themselves?"
"It's a long story, Mona."
Mona does not pursue the matter because she knows Olivia will give her all of the details when she is ready.
"Mona, I was thinking about asking Marcella if she could use some help at the community center – if Nora could work there."
"Well, I don't know Nora, but Marcella is dedicated to her work and I'm sure she can always use an extra pair of hands at that community center."
"That's what I was thinking. Thanks Mona, I'll talk to Marcella later. Now let's back to business. What does the schedule look like with the contractors tomorrow?"
"We have three scheduled in the morning, after you drop off Cena at school, and three in the afternoon."
"It's going to be a long day."
XXX
Olivia is feeling a little sad as she walks down the hall toward their bedroom after reading Cena a bedtime story. This is the first night they have spent apart since returning from Mirage and she is missing her husband desperately. She has become accustomed to having him around the house all of the time, especially at night. As she approaches the staircase, she smiles when suddenly she craves the raspberry iced-tea. She shakes her head because she has become addicted to the drink and has tried all kinds of tactics to get Fitz to show her how to make it, but he will not budge. Last week she went to the grocery store and bought all of the ingredients she thought were in the delightful drink and made a large pitcher of the tea. But what she made tasted nothing like her husband's version. Her attempt to replicate the flavorful drink only resulted in Fitz laughing hysterically as he watched her pour her version of the tea down the sink.
With a tall glass of the flavorful iced tea sitting on the nightstand, Olivia settles into bed with several pillows propped behind her back and begins reviewing the profiles of the six contractors she is meeting with tomorrow. She smiles and sets the tablet on her lap when she hears the familiar ringtone.
"Hi", she answers with the biggest smile, as she reaches for the sweating glass.
"Hi", he says with an equally broad smile stretching across his face.
"I miss you", she says in a whiney voice.
"How much?"
"More than I should", setting the glass onto the wooden coaster.
"What are you drinking?" Chuckling because he hears the ice cubes jingling in the background.
"I remember the time you used to ask me what I was wearing."
"Knowing what you're drinking is more sexy and entertaining. Now spill, what are you drinking?"
"That iced tea you make. Fitz, I don't know what you put in it – and you won't tell me by the way - but I can't stop drinking it. I know I'm going to pay later but I don't care."
He smiles as he leans against the headboard in his hotel room.
"So how are you feeling? Is Kix misbehaving tonight?"
"Kix?" Scrunching her face as she reaches for the glass again.
"We can't keep calling him baby. I figured since he likes to kick so much I thought Kix would be the perfect nickname."
"And it took you how long to think of that name?" She asks sarcastically.
"Do you have something better?"
"No. But isn't that the name of a cereal?"
"Does it matter?"
She shrugs her shoulders as if he can see her.
"And how is my Princess doing tonight?"
"Biker Princess is sleeping."
He frowns when he hears his daughter's new nickname. In fact, he frowns whenever he hears the name, but he makes sure Cena does not see him doing so.
"But not before she asked about her birthday."
"Her birthday? That's not for another five months."
"Babe, she is so excited about being a big girl. In her mind turning five seals the deal."
"She's growing up too fast, Liv. I feel like I'm losing my little girl."
"Well it's your fault."
"What are you talking about?" He asks in disbelief.
"Ever since you and John bought that bicycle and all of the Hells Angels gear, she hasn't been the same. She really thinks she's a big girl – so it's all your fault."
"So the genie is out of the bottle?" Running his fingers through his hair.
"Yup", she says teasingly. "Speaking of genies, I spoke with Mona today about your mother working at the Foundation."
"What did she say? Is she okay with it?"
"She is actually. But I needed to reassure her that she will continue to make decisions about the day to day – that your mother will report directly to her."
"That's good. When does mom start?"
"We'll have to discuss it with her when you get back tomorrow. What time will you be home?"
"Not until after dinner. We can talk to mom then."
"And babe …"
"Hmm?" Looking down at his schedule for tomorrow.
"I'm thinking about asking Marcella to allow Nora to work at the community center in Springfield Heights."
"What?" Sitting up in the bed.
"I think it's a good idea for Nora to volunteer at the center."
"Doing what?"
"I don't know, but I'm sure Marcella can find something for her to do."
"Marcella is tough, Liv. Do you think Nora can handle it?"
"It's time for Nora to grow up, babe."
XXX
Olivia and Mona sit in the conference room reviewing the contractors' profiles one more time before their first appointment arrives. Although they have allocated one hour for each meeting, they are willing to let a meeting go longer or cut one short, if necessary.
"So what time is the first contractor scheduled to be here, Mona? I have a lot of questions for those guys."
"Colin Fairfax is scheduled to be here at 9:00. And it sounds like he is here on time", Mona says, standing from the table when she hears the door chime. "I'll bring him back."
After a grueling three-and-a-half hours of interviewing the three contractors, Olivia and Mona take a break for lunch to reflect on the interviews.
"Olivia, I don't know why that second guy even bothered to show up. I can't believe he thought he could come in here and change the quote he submitted in his response document", digging into her salad.
"He thought he could take advantage of two women", Olivia says as she dropping Phil Medici's folder into the wastebasket.
"Well, he's dealing with the wrong two women." And they laugh out loud until they hear someone clear their throat.
"Charlie?" Olivia says in shock.
"Hello Olivia – Mona. I have been waiting out front for 15 minutes so I decided to come back and find you. I see everything looks the same", glancing around the small conference room.
The two women stare at Charlie with their mouths hanging open, wondering why Charlie is at the Foundation.
"May I come in?" Charlie asks as he stands in the doorway.
"What are you doing here, Charlie?" Olivia asks with an edge to her voice.
"I'm here for my appointment."
The two women look at each other perplexed.
"To discuss the quote I submitted for the Springfield Heights project", Charlie continues.
Olivia and Mona frown because neither one of them saw Charlie's company name on any of the documents they received. So they rifle quickly through the folders trying to find paper work for Charlie's company.
"I'm sorry, Charlie. We don't seem to have any formal documentation for your company. Therefore, we won't be able to meet with you today. You understand how the process works", Olivia says dismissively.
"Look again, Olivia. I responded to all of your requests with the appropriate documents - well before the deadlines."
Olivia stands from her seat and rests a hand on her hip."
"I see congratulations are in order", eyeing her stomach.
"You should go, Charlie. We don't have any documentation from Hardwell Plumbing and Heating", officially annoyed with the man.
"You should look at the documents for Chandler Corporation, Olivia. That's the name of my new company", smiling smugly as the two women look at each other in shock.
XXX
After recovering from Charlie's unexpected visit to the Foundation and meeting with him for an hour to discuss his bid for the job, Olivia drove to the Springfield Heights community center to meet with Marcella. Bringing the car to a complete stop, she looks up at the graffiti-covered building and reflects on the last time she was in the parking lot. So much has happened since that fateful night when she sat in Fitz' car crying after her confrontation with Marcella. She rubs her stomach thinking she did not know she was pregnant at the time. She did not know that a few weeks later she would have to leave her family and home and go to a place located in the mountains to heal. She shakes her head and pushes the button, allowing the seat to glide back so she can slide her protruding stomach from under the steering wheel. When her feet finally touch the cracked asphalt, she thinks about the boundless unknowns the future holds. Five months ago she would never have imagined she would be walking back into this community center to discuss, with Marcella Andersen of all people, a program to train community organizers. And she surely never would have imagined she would ask Marcella to allow her sister-in-law to work at the community center.
"Mrs. Grant, it's so good to see you", Marcella says with a genuine smile as she looks up from her computer screen. "Have a seat - please", eyeing Olivia's stomach and thinking the woman looks like she is ready to burst at any moment.
"Hello Marcella", smiling just as brightly. "Thank you for making time to see me today."
"Anytime. The children don't start coming in until after school lets out. Besides, I'm excited to hear what you've come up with."
"The children?" Olivia asks curiously.
"Yes, we provide enrichment activities for the neighborhood children. We try to make the center a place for the children to come after school and on weekends. A place where they can feel safe. I know it doesn't look like much but we try to make the children's time here as educational and fun as possible."
"That sounds terrific. I had no idea. What kinds of activities do you offer the children?"
"We provide afterschool tutoring and mentoring, some organized sports, a few trips here and there, and parties to celebrate their achievements. Our goal is to halt the epidemic of poverty and despair in this community. To do that we have to start with the children."
Olivia nods, thinking there are more layers to the young woman than she imagined.
"Amir and I came here as children. This place gave us life since we didn't have much of a life outside of these walls", glancing reminiscently around the room. "I learned a lot here, Mrs. Grant. The love and support I got here encouraged me to go to college and pursue a degree in social work. I needed to find a way to give back – to help my community."
"Who is Amir?"
"He's an old childhood friend. We came here together many years ago when we were looking to get away from the violence on the streets and in our homes. What we found here was a home - our refuge. When I went away to college, Amir stayed here and worked with Mr. Coven, the community center's program director back then."
"Did Amir not want to go to college?"
"It's complicated, Mrs. Grant."
Olivia nods, knowing better not to ask any more questions about Amir. So she reaches into her briefcase, pulls out a folder containing the draft copy of her proposal, and hands it to Marcella. As Olivia explains the program, at a high-level, Marcella flips through the pages, scanning the text and nodding her head.
"Marcella, take as much time as you need to review the proposal and get back to me whenever you're ready to discuss. And feel free to add your value – any upgrades you think are necessary. When we meet again we can discuss your changes and a timeline for getting started."
"That's sounds great, Mrs. Grant. From what I've read so far it seems like you've covered everything. The training program sounds exciting. We can all use that kind of information over here."
"Good, but just read it more carefully and we'll discuss it at another time in more detail."
Marcella nods and begins to stand from her chair. She knows Mrs. Grant is a busy woman and does not want to take up more of her time.
"Marcella …" Olivia says, remaining seated.
"Is there something else, Mrs. Grant?" Looking curiously at the woman who is still sitting and resting a hand on her stomach.
"Yes there is. I would like to ask a favor of you."
Marcella knits her brow wondering what she could possibly do for the woman.
"Anything, Mrs. Grant. But I can't imagine what I can possibly do for you", slowly sitting back on her chair.
"I have a sister-in-law who is a few years younger than you."
Marcella nods, wondering what Mrs. Grant's sister-in-law has to do with her.
"Her name is Nora. She is living with me and my husband for a while and I want her to spend her time doing something productive."
Marcella looks at Olivia intently, still unsure what Mrs. Grant wants from her.
"I hope you won't think my request is a quid pro quo for the training program. I assure you, your decision will have no impact on our plans."
Marcella smiles inwardly because she has never seen the self-assured woman so nervous.
"OK", Marcella says slowly.
"Marcella, I was wondering if you could use some additional help here at the center.
"Well, I could always use more help around here, Mrs. Grant."
"Do you think you can find something for Nora to do here at the Center?"
"I'm sure I can, Mrs. Grant. But unfortunately I don't have the budget to hire another person. Amir and I are the only paid staff and he is only part time, although he works way more hours than he gets paid."
"Nora will volunteer her time – no salary will be required", Olivia says quickly.
"That must be nice, not to need money."
"It's not that simple, Marcella."
"It's just that people who live in Springfield Heights don't have the luxury of volunteering their time, Mrs. Grant. The people over here need to get paid when they work."
"I understand. I just meant you wouldn't have to worry about a salary for Nora. I will be responsible for her salary. You set her work schedule and projects and she will report to you with no interference from me."
"Wow. What a gift. But is there anything I should know about Nora before I agree?"
"Well, she's quite bright, but is still somewhat young. She needs to focus on something meaningful."
Marcella nods, thinking Nora is very lucky to have someone like Mrs. Grant who is looking out for her.
"OK, I'll will be happy to have Nora help out around here."
"Thank you, I really appreciate this. And Marcella, if things don't work out with Nora then you can terminate her at will."
Marcella nods as she watches Mrs. Grant walk down the hall. On her way out of the center, Olivia sees a young man setting up the chairs in the community room for tonight's meeting. She wonders if he is Amir.
XXX
Fitz is disappointed that he is arriving home from his business trip after Cena has gone to bed. He hates when he misses bath or story time, but he will stop in her room and give her a good-night kiss after he and Olivia talk to his mother about her working at the Foundation. Having set his luggage and brief case on the floor in the foyer, he walks toward the family room where he sees his mother sitting on the sofa playing her favorite game on the phone.
"Mom?"
"Fitzgerald, welcome home", setting her phone on the coffee table. "How was your trip? Do you want something to eat?"
"My trip was fine and I grabbed something to eat at the airport. Where's Liv?"
"I believe she's in the bathroom again."
And they smile, hoping Olivia's bathroom habits are truly an indicator that a baby boy is on the way.
"So how are you doing, mom?"
"I'm fine, son."
"Good. Did Liv mention we wanted to discuss something with you tonight?"
Maura holds her breath, thinking perhaps she has overstayed her welcome and her son is going to ask her to leave his home.
"No, she said nothing. Is there something wrong, Fitzgerald?" She asks nervously.
"No – no – not all. There's nothing wrong, mom. Olivia and I just wanted to run something by you, that's all."
"I didn't know you were home", smiling brightly as she walks into the room. And Fitz is on his feet immediately, smiling just as broadly as his wife.
"I just got here", giving her a deep kiss and rubbing her stomach. "How are you feeling? Is everything all right?" He asks with concern.
"I'm fine."
"Good", pecking her on the lips. "Has Kix been misbehaving?" And she rolls her eyes at the nickname for their unborn child.
"The baby is fine – has been fine."
"Are you hungry? Do you want some dinner?" Still holding him around the waist.
"Fitzgerald ate something at the airport", Maura responds and the couple look at each other. "Although I'm sure whatever he had was just awful."
"It was fine, mom. Sit down, Liv", escorting his wife across the room and sitting next to her on the arm of the chair.
"Why do I feel like I'm in trouble?" Looking nervously between her son and Olivia.
"Not at all", Olivia interjects quickly, looking up at her husband and silently urging him to start the conversation.
"Mom, I've noticed over the last several weeks that you seem to be a bit out of sorts."
"Well Fitzgerald, I have left your father after 45 years of marriage. I guess that would make anyone feel out of sorts as you put it."
"I know - I understand. But that's not what I meant."
Although well known for his language skills, in this moment Fitz feels totally inept at communicating his thoughts to his mother. He cannot seem to find the right words to tell his mother she needs to find something meaningful to do with her time.
"Mom, you're used to having something to do – used to having something to occupy your time. But since this change in your life – well - you now have lots of free time on your hands."
Maura looks at her son curiously, not sure what he is trying to say.
"Mom, I – we – think it might be beneficial if you got out of this house and did something more with your time."
"Well son, I go out with you and Olivia occasionally."
Olivia looks at her husband who is struggling to help his mother to understand that she cannot rely on them to fill her time.
"That's just it, mom, you can't wait around for me and Liv. You need to do something that you care about – something you find fulfilling."
Olivia sees the hurt in Maura's eyes so she intercedes to help her husband to frame the situation better.
"Maura, what Fitz is trying to say is that you have so much rich knowledge to offer – knowledge that you can share with others."
Fitz nods in agreement as he rubs Olivia's back.
"But I haven't figured out what I want to do yet – what I can do", she says softly.
"Well, Fitz and I have an idea that might be of interest to you", Olivia says carefully.
Maura tilts her head slightly and looks back and forth between Olivia and her son. She feels like she is being set up for something.
"Maura, you told me that you really enjoy teaching Bible study classes at your church."
Maura nods, continuing to eye Olivia suspiciously.
"And you said that you designed all the courses for those classes."
"I did. I tried to get Gretchen involved but she just didn't have the tiniest bit of interest. I told Minister Oswald but he said not to worry about Gretchen because he had faith that I could handle it all alone."
"Maura", Olivia says, redirecting her mother-in-law's attention back to the matter at hand. "I need someone to design training courses for a new program I'll be implementing at the Foundation. And, Fitz and I thought this might be a perfect opportunity for you to use the skills you honed over the years at the church."
Maura clutches her chest because she was not expecting her daughter-in-law to offer her a job. The thought of taking on a real job is downright frightening. She is not sure if she can do what Olivia needs and she does not want to be a failure.
"Olivia, I don't want to be one of your charity cases", she says defensively.
"Excuse me?"
"Well that's what you do isn't it - assist the unfortunate - the desperate?"
"Maura, the people I help are neither desperate nor unfortunate. While some might not have the financial and material means as their counterparts, they are not desperate. In fact, they are hardworking and proud people who are dedicated to their families and community. They are people who attend church regularly. They are people who choose to get up every morning, in the face of so many adversities, and fight for what they need. Do they sometimes need additional support because of their circumstances – because they don't have access to the same kinds of resources as those who are more fortunate? Yes."
"I didn't mean –"
"I know", not wanting to get distracted by Maura deflecting. "Maura, there's no shame in asking for help when it's needed. The position I'm offering you has nothing to do with charity. I have a real business need that must be filled by someone. Fitz and I just thought this might be an opportunity for you to do something you enjoy."
"Well, I don't know Olivia. I've only created courses for our parishioners. I'm not sure –"
"I'm sure you can do it, Maura. Mona and I will teach you everything you need to know about community service."
"Who's Mona?" She asks anxiously, now realizing she will have to work with someone other than Olivia.
"Mona is my office manager. She has worked with me ever since I started the Foundation. She's terrific and I think you two will get along just fine."
Maura's chews on her lower lip while twisting her wedding rings as Olivia promotes the benefits of working at her Foundation. She stares across the room at the speck of dust on the table and thinks Hildie needs to do a better job cleaning the house.
"Mom, you will be fine. Everything will be fine."
"Well Fitzgerald, I'm not sure if I will have the time. After all, I help out Hildie a lot around here. She needs my help."
"No she doesn't, mom. Hildie is a professional and can handle things around here without your help."
Maura glares at her son because he has just taken away her last excuse for not accepting Olivia's job offer.
"Maura, we don't want to force you into doing anything you are not comfortable doing. As I said, it's just an idea. Why don't you take some time to think about it? You don't have to decide anything tonight. If you decide working at the Foundation is something you might want to do then let us know. Okay?"
"Thank you, Olivia. I think I will need some time to think it over."
"And Maura, if you decide to work at the Foundation and later realize it isn't something you want to do, then you can back away at any time. The choice is always yours. Okay?"
"OK", Maura says, rubbing her décolleté absently.
XXX
After Fitz quickly pulls back the tightly tucked comforter, blanket, and top sheet on his side of the bed, he jumps onto the cool, crisp sheet while Olivia yanks and tugs at the linens on her side of the bed.
"Babe, Hildie must have served a stint in the military."
He removes the watch from his wrist and sets it on the nightstand while Olivia continues to pull at the tightly tucked bed linens.
"What do you mean?" Leaning against the headboard and watching her finally climb into bed.
"While I appreciate that she makes such a neat bed, it takes me forever to get in it."
"Well I like how she makes our bed. It shows that she pays attention to detail."
"What does making a bed have to do with attention to detail?" Looking at her husband in amazement.
"Liv, in the Navy, having a well-made bed wasn't just about learning how to make hospital corners. It's about developing a soldier's discipline and attention to even the smallest details. It ensures that order is maintained in the barracks, which allows the enlisted to concentrate on more important things."
"Are you saying you never liked the way I made our bed?"
"I said no such thing", he responds in surprise.
"Well you never praised my bed-making skills the way you're praising Hildie's."
"But I praise all of the wonderful things you do in our bed", giving her that stupid smirk and she rolls her eyes.
"So how do you think the conversation went with your mother?" Rubbing lotion on her hands.
"She's obviously nervous about going to work, but she'll get over it. So what are we going to do about messing up this well-made bed?" Pulling her on top of him and kissing her deeply.
After all of these years she still does not understand how he can pivot so quickly from one topic to the next.
"Babe …" She says breathlessly as her fingernails scrape the hairs at the nape of his neck.
"I don't want to talk about my mother right now", sliding the nightgown straps down her shoulders.
"You know I have to hire a plumbing contractor for the Springfield Heights project?"
"Mhmm", gently licking circles around her breasts and silently hoping they remain this size after the baby is born.
"Well, you wouldn't guess who put in a bid", closing her eyes as his tongue travels down her body.
"Can't guess - don't want to guess", he mumbles as he zeroes in on his target.
"You remember Charlie don't you?"
Well the mention of that name just killed his libido, so he sighs heavily and gently rolls her back onto the bed.
XXX
The conversation Maura had with her son and Olivia has been playing on a loop in her head since she left them sitting in the family room last night. The idea of working outside of the home has unnerved her terribly, causing her to toss and turn in bed all night. She is uneasy about working in a business environment, and with a stranger. She does not know if she can do it. After hours of fretting over the idea of becoming a working woman, she finally crawls out of bed long before the sun rises and goes to the kitchen to start breakfast for the family. As she mixes the batter for the waffles, she continues to think about working at the Foundation. The idea is both terrifying and exciting. On the one hand she is afraid of embarking on the unknown. While on the other hand she is excited about getting up every morning and going to work to produce something that can be useful to others. As she pours another cup of tea, Cena walks into the kitchen carrying the gift her father left on her nightstand last night.
"Good morning Grams", Cena says as she climbs onto her stool.
"Good morning, Cena. Why are you up so early this morning?"
Cena's face brightens when she thinks about her day.
"I'm going on a trip today, Grams. I can't wait."
"Where are you going, Cena?"
"I forgot", playing with the new gift.
"So why are you so excited if you don't know where you're going?"
"Because I've never been there before, Grams. It's going to be fun."
Maura leans against the counter and looks at her granddaughter for a long while and thinks out of the mouths of babes. If her four-year-old granddaughter can get excited about the unknown then surely she can as well. She sets Cena's breakfast in front of her as Olivia and Fitz walk into the kitchen.
"Somebody's excited about their trip today", Fitz says, kissing Cena on top of her head.
"Cee, you're up so early this morning", giving her daughter big smushy kisses on each cheek.
"My trip is today, mommy."
"I know and I have to pack your lunch", Olivia says through a yawn. "Good morning, Maura."
"Good morning, Olivia – Fitzgerald."
"Good morning, mom", pecking his mother on the cheek on his way to the coffee maker.
"Where is Cena going today?" Maura asks as she sets a plate of waffles and sausage in front of Olivia.
"Oh, she's going to the farm. And guess who's going to chaperone?" Patting her husband on the butt while Maura's back is turned.
"I see. Well Cena certainly is excited about her new adventure today."
"Cena loves trying new things, mom. She's a real daredevil. Right Princess?"
"I'm Biker Princess, daddy", swinging her legs as she washes down the waffles with her milk. And Olivia chuckles when Cena corrects her father.
"Olivia" turning from the stove and holding the spatula in her hand. "I've decided to take you up on your offer to work at the Foundation. I think I'm also ready for a new adventure."
"That's terrific, mom", Fitz says excitedly.
Nora drags into the kitchen and takes her seat at the island.
"Good morning, everyone."
"Good morning, Aunt Nora."
"What's that you're playing with, Cena?"
"Daddy bought me a Biker Princess - just like me", holding up her new toy.
Olivia looks at her husband in shock.
"If you can't beat 'em, join 'em", shrugging his shoulders.
"Do you like it Cee?"
"I love it daddy."
"What's going on with you, mom? Why are you so happy?"
"I have a job Nora", Maura beams as she sets Fitz' plate in front of him. "I'm going to work", she says proudly.
"You have a job, mom?" Nora exclaims in disbelief.
"And so do you", Olivia says, looking at her slack-jawed sister-in-law.