A/N: I own nothing Scandal related. Reader575, glad you caught how Abby was projecting her childhood experience onto Olivia. We have to be vigilant about that. The Grants had many good times, all wasn't bad. Bujuman, hold tight, the Popes will make an appearance in about three or four chapters. Kkimberly49, you're right, working with a family member can be messy. And yes, Maura could have left Gerry many years ago, but she chose to stay because she didn't believe she had a way to make a living during that era. She also enjoyed the lifestyle her husband provided and she did not want to give it up. Cleo, when I came along three years after my older brother he used to pinch me as a baby. My parents caught him in the act. : - (
Thanks for the reviews, the new follows, and new favorites. Here we go!
Chapter 23. Secret Weapon
When Fitz left the house this morning he thought he only had one campaign stop scheduled for the day, but he learned late in the morning Darius had arranged for him to attend two events before noon. After the last event across town with a group of business people, he had to hurry to the other side of town to pick up Cena from dance class because Olivia is not feeling well and is unable to drive into the city to get Cena from class. He buys Cena chicken fingers and fries for dinner at the fast food restaurant and makes his way over to the community center to teach his second and final course. He is somewhat on edge about teaching tonight because he has not had a lot of time to prepare.
Fitz sits Cena at one of the tables where the children who live in Springfield Heights do their homework and work on arts and crafts projects. Then he walks to the other side of the room to make a phone call.
"Hello Cena", Marcella says, smiling at the little girl who is still dressed in her red and black dance leotard.
"Hi", she says softly, looking over at her father who is in a heated discussion with someone on the phone.
"That's a really nice toy you have. Does she have a name?"
Cena nods her head up and down and Marcella smiles to herself thinking getting answers from the little girl is going to be like pulling teeth.
"Can you tell me her name?" Marcella asks, bending at the waist and smiling at the pretty little girl who looks like her mother and father.
"She's Biker Princess. And my daddy calls me Biker Princess too", she says quickly, looking up at Marcella with her big blue eyes.
"Wow, that's a nice name. Would you like some paper and crayons to make a picture?"
"Yes, please."
"Okay. Don't move, I'll be right back."
"My daddy told me to stay here", Cena says, rolling Biker Princess back and forth across the table.
Marcella walks over to the cabinet on the other side of the room and pulls out a couple sheets of construction paper and the set of crayons and colored pencils Nora bought last month. She shakes her head at the irony.
"I won't cosign on that. I can't support unjust policies." Fitz says adamantly, pacing back and forth with a hand resting on his hip.
Marcella frowns when she hears the raised voice coming from across the room. Realizing that all eyes in the room are on him, Fitz turns and looks at the organizers, who are trying to stifle their laughter.
"What?" Giving Marcella a puzzled look.
"Cosign?" And she and the rest of the room burst into laughter.
"I've also learned a thing or two since I've been coming here", he says with a smile.
"You're pretty cool Mr. Grant", Jason says, still smiling.
XXX
At the end of class a few students huddle with Marcella watching Fitz as he puts on Cena's coat. They are trying to decide if they should tell Mr. Grant what they have been discussing for the last two weeks.
"Let's go home Biker Princess", he says, lifting the sleepy little girl from her seat and walking toward the exit.
"My picture daddy", Cena says sleepily, pointing limply to the picture she spent all evening drawing.
"Got it", bending slightly to slide the paper from the table and placing it in his daughter's hand.
Rashid nudges Marcella as Fitz walks toward the exit.
"Okay - okay", Marcella says, frowning at Rashid. "Mr. Grant, can we speak with you for a minute?"
Fitz looks down at his sleeping daughter, then over at the group huddled together.
"I'm sorry, I can't stay much longer tonight", shifting Cena in his arms. He wonders when she got so heavy.
"We understand. We just need a few minutes."
Marcella and her cohort walk over to Fitz.
"Is there a point you need me to clarify from class?" Looking at the four faces.
"You're going to lose this election", Jason blurts out, and his cohort looks at him in surprise.
"What?"
"You're a good man, Mr. Grant. But you're going to lose if you keep listening to those old Gs, the old political machine."
Fitz shifts Cena in his arms and looks at Marcella for clarification and Cena's picture falls from her hand and floats to the floor. Jason picks up the paper and smiles.
"What he's trying to say", shooting Jason a mean look. "The old guard doesn't really know what's going on in our communities any longer. They are too disconnected from what our needs are."
Fitz looks down at his watch and frowns, thinking this discussion is going to take much more time than he has tonight.
"I would like to discuss this with you but I have to get my daughter home. Why don't I call Marcella tomorrow and we can schedule a time and location when we can meet to discuss this further."
"That sounds good Mr. Grant", Marcella says.
XXX
Fitz and Cena arrive home well after her bedtime, so he undresses her quickly, puts on her pajamas, and tucks her under the covers. No bedtime story tonight. He then walks down the hall to the nursery and checks on Jolie, who has once again kicked off her blanket. He pulls the pink blanket with the fringed edges over her tummy and she instinctually kicks it off again. He smiles, kisses her forehead, and turns off the light.
"You and Cena are hanging out pretty late these days", Olivia says, looking up from her tablet.
"I hate having to drag her all over town with me and keep her out so late. She's going to be cranky all day at school tomorrow", loosening his tie as he walks into the bedroom.
"Sorry I couldn't pick her up from dance class. I think I have JoJo's stomach virus."
"How are you feeling?" Removing her eyeglasses and kissing her on the lips. "You taste like Pepto-Bismol. Can I get you something?"
"No", waving her hand in the air dismissively. "Hildie has given me enough tea and crackers today to last me a life time. So what took you so long? Did your students have a lot of questions again tonight?"
"They're hardly my students, Liv. I taught two courses", stepping out of his pants and hanging them in the closet.
"Well I'm sure they would differ", calling after him as he walks into the bathroom to brush his teeth.
He turns off the bathroom light, flops onto the bed, and lets out a heavy sigh.
"Are you really that tired?" Looking at him as he lay his head in her lap.
"I'm beat", wrapping an arm around her waist. "And so is Cena. She didn't wake up the entire ride home, or when I put her to bed."
"Poor baby", running her fingers through his hair. "Are you going to miss teaching?"
"No. It's a lot of work preparing for those classes. Those kids are really smart – ask a lot of questions."
He lets out a loud and long yawn.
"You are tired", massaging his scalp.
"I told you", nuzzling closer to her.
"So how was the meeting today with the Darius and the business people?"
"They're a bunch of Old Gs", his eyes are getting heavy.
"Old Gs? When did you start using that kind of language?"
"I've learned a lot from those young organizers, Liv", he says sleepily. "In fact, we're going to meet so they can advise me on my campaign."
"What? Advise you?" Looking down in astonishment at her sleeping husband.
XXX
A few hours later Olivia is jolted awake by Jolie's shrill screams, so she kicks Fitz on the leg to wake him, but he does not budge.
"Wake up, Fitz", kicking him again and he mumbles something unintelligible. She pinches him on the arm, which usually does the trick.
"Ouch!" He shouts and jumps up in bed. "What – what's wrong? What happened?" Rubbing his arm.
"JoJo. She's crying again", trying to suppress her laugh.
"Well you didn't have to pinch me", rubbing his arm.
"You wouldn't wake up", smiling mischievously in the dark.
"Couldn't you just get her?" He asks tiredly.
"I had her all day. Besides, I'm still sick."
He sighs and rolls out of bed for Jolie duty.
"And make sure Cena's door is closed so she doesn't wake up."
He nods and walks toward the bathroom.
"Where are you going?"
"Can I go to the bathroom first?"
"What were you going to do if I didn't wake you?"
He ignores her question and closes the bathroom door to relieve himself.
"Don't be in there all night", she hollers to him, placing the pillow over her head to block out Jolie's screams.
XXX
The next morning when Olivia awakens she is feeling much better than she felt yesterday. She seems to have survived her stomach bug. She glances over at her sleeping husband and shakes her head as she listens for a moment to him snore lightly. She rolls out of bed, takes a quick shower, then goes downstairs to prepare breakfast. A half-hour later Fitz drags into the kitchen still wearing his pajama pants and tee shirt. He is on autopilot as he takes his seat at the island.
"I don't know how you can sleep through JoJo's crying", she says, pulling his favorite mug from the cabinet.
"I had a long day. You know I don't hear a thing when I'm tired", he says tiredly, holding his head in his hands.
"Poor baby", she says teasingly, setting his coffee in front of him and pecking him on the cheek.
"Between the campaign, transitioning things to Geoffrey, teaching …. I'm wiped out, Liv."
"Why are you still transitioning responsibilities to Geoffrey? He and Sandra know how to run the office."
He ignores her question.
"French toast or waffles?" She asks, pulling dairy products from the refrigerator.
"Waffles", sipping the hot, black liquid. "It's my company, Olivia. I have to make sure everything is in order before I turn things over fully to Geoffrey."
"You have to learn how up let go and allow Geoffrey and Sandra to do their jobs, babe."
He sighs and takes another sip of coffee.
"The longer you hold on to the old the less time you'll have to do the new things in your life", she says, turning the sausage in the skillet.
He rolls his eyes thinking she sounds like one of those motivational speakers she listens to in the car. He hates when he borrows her car and the radio is always tuned to the Oprah Channel.
"Where are the girls?"
"Sleeping. Cena has a half day of school today, and JoJo, well she's just JoJo."
"I thought Dr. Jordan said she would cry at the same time every day. Have you been tracking her crying in the journal?"
"JoJo doesn't care about that journal, babe. She cries whenever she wants", setting the plate of waffles and sausage in front of him.
"Syrup?" he asks, biting into a sausage link. "I swear I can't take it much longer, Liv. I don't understand how she can cry like that, and for so long. Didn't Dr. Jordan say three weeks?"
"I'm sure she's miserable too babe", setting the syrup and a glass of milk in front of him. She has been waiting to use his words against him but he is too tired to notice. "Besides, it hasn't been three weeks and Miss Jo will stop crying when Miss Jo is ready to stop crying."
She rubs her hand up and down his back trying to provide some comfort, and he just shakes his head in despair.
"So why are you meeting with the organizers?" Filling her bowl with fruit. She wants to lose the baby fat.
"They want to advise me on the community issues – how to win the election."
"What about Darius and Johnson?"
"The old guard and new guard. They both have different, yet valuable perspectives on the problems that face their communities."
"My husband the negotiator."
"Don't forget we have that community meeting Wednesday night."
"Got it on my calendar", she says, biting into a slice of melon.
"Will Hildie be able to stay late to watch the girls on Wednesday?"
"She's always happy to babysit", she says, sipping her tea.
XXX
"I want this farce of a campaign shut down, Charlie. Grant's message is beginning to resonate with a large swath of voters. I don't want to run against this guy for mayor in two years."
"We have to get to his wife, Olivia Pope", Charlie says, scowling as he thinks about the Grants.
Wilson stares at Charlie thinking his interest in this election is not all it seems to be. Something deeper is going on but he does not care. He just needs Charlie to win.
"Too much is riding on this election, Charlie. Too many important people have too much to lose. These people are highly invested in me remaining mayor and you becoming council president. So don't make this personal."
"That ship has already sailed", Charlie mutters under his breath.
Puffing on his cigar, Wilson leans back in his chair and closely eyes the man sitting across from him. He hates having to deal with idiots like Charlie, but under the circumstances he does not have a choice. Wilson reaches into his desk drawer, pulls out a black folder, and tosses it across the desk. The folder lands in front of Charlie.
"Take a look at that Charlie. Our October surprise."
Charlie opens the folder and throws his head back in laughter as he reads the contents.
"This is good, really good. I can't wait to take down that bitch and her husband. This is going to be much better than a little water."
"Don't get reckless, Charlie. Too much is at stake, more than you know."
XXX
Fitz and Olivia arrive at the community meeting with a few minutes late. The GPS in his car directed them to the wrong address. Instead of guiding them to West Elm Avenue it took them to East Elm Avenue.
"It's disrespectful to be late", Olivia says, holding his hand as they run down the hall in search of the meeting room.
"I'm writing a letter to the company. What's the point in having a navigation system that only gets you lost?" He says nervously.
"I think it's this way", she says, glancing to the left at the sign with the big red arrow taped on the concrete wall.
They walk swiftly down the hall and stop abruptly in front of the door of the meeting room to catch their breath and compose themselves. Olivia brushes his hair back and straightens his tie.
"Babe, Marcella says your students love you."
"Really?" He says in surprise.
"Yes, really. So, whatever you've been doing in your class with the organizers, you have to do it in that room tonight."
He scrunches his face, not sure what she is talking about.
"You have to show them who you are. Ready?"
He takes a deep cleansing breath and nods his head.
"Ready."
Fitz opens the door and lets Olivia enter the packed room first, then he follows behind her. There are about 75 people in attendance and all 75 pairs of eyes turn and look at them, including the pair that belongs to Councilman Johnson who is standing at the front of the room. Johnson rushes over to greet Fitz and Olivia.
"I'm sorry we're late", Fitz says apologetically.
"No problem. Everybody is just getting settled. Hello, Olivia. We're glad you could join Fitz for this meeting."
"Hello Councilman. Of course, I would do anything to help Fitz to get elected."
Fitz smiles and squeezes her hand.
"I'm glad to hear that", Johnson says with a smile. "Let's get this meeting started", ushering the couple to the front of the room.
"Ladies and gentleman, we are ready to get this meeting underway", Johnson says. "Please meet our candidate Fitzgerald Grant and his wife Olivia Grant."
The crowd gives a lackluster applause as Fitz and Olivia smile and wave. Olivia sits on one of the hard, metal chairs situated to the right of where Fitz is standing. She smiles proudly at him as he begins his speech, which was filled with a lot of policy talk and economic language. The crowd seems bored.
"I hope what I've said has promoted some controversy and some questions", he smiles expectantly.
"So, can we expect you to pass an ordinance that will stop the city for fining people for trash outside of their homes? Nobody has money to pay for those fines."
"That's right, especially when the wind blows the trash from around the corner and onto our street", someone yells out.
"Well I have thought about those kinds of fines in terms of a macro monetary policy rather than in the context of a social policy. You certainly have given me something to think about."
There is grumbling in the room and Johnson frowns.
"So you're a Republican?"
"Yes, I am."
"And you Republicans don't believe in spending money to help people who are in need."
"That's not quite true, sir. While I do believe in fiscal conservatism, I also – "
"Well, my family ain't never voted for no Republican", a woman sitting on the front row says.
More grumbling, folding of arms, and scrunching of faces is displayed in the room.
"Well, I can assure you –"
"Ain't you that lady who helps people?"
The old woman sitting in the third row yells out, ignoring the candidate. Olivia gives Fitz and Johnson a puzzled look, unsure if it is appropriate for her to respond. Johnson waves a hand up and down, encouraging Olivia to stand and answer the question. She looks at Fitz, who nods for her to stand. Olivia smiles nervously as she walks over and stands next to her husband.
"You're that lady, right?" The old woman persists.
"Well, I try to help as many people as I can", Olivia says softly.
"You fixed my sister's well out there in Wycombe. That old well had been broken for years."
"Is she the lady who had all of those wells out there fixed?"
"Sure she is. That's the water lady", someone yells out from the left side of the room.
"My mother couldn't' afford to get that well fixed. We had been buying her cases of water for years."
"Are you the same lady who is having all of those old lead pipes replaced in those houses over in Springfield Heights?"
"Well a lot of people in the both business and government communities made that happen."
"My cousin has lived in Springfield Heights for seven years. When she bought that house she had no idea that it had old lead pipes in it. She couldn't get help from anyone. She has three children in that house."
"Well I heard they already replaced the pipes in those houses. Those workers have been out there every day working real hard", the man sitting on the last rows calls out.
"Well thank you for your questions", Olivia smiles politely as she walks back to her chair.
"Are you the same lady who used to teach those classes about water over at Rev. Walker's church?"
"Yes, I am", turning and looking at Fitz again. He nods for her to continue.
"Well why don't you do it anymore? That was real good information."
"Well, since we had our first child I didn't have a lot of time to teach those courses as often as I would like. But our foundation now holds annual sessions in March at the World Water Day Conference down at the Convention Center. You should receive information about the conference from your church."
"You have children?"
"Yes, we have two girls", Olivia smiles proudly.
"How old are they?" Someone asks.
"Cena will be five in November and Jolie is just two months."
"Two months? She doesn't look like she just had a baby."
"We didn't know he was married to you", someone else shouts out.
"How long have you two been married?"
Olivia walks over to Fitz before responding.
"We've been married for seven years", smiling at Fitz.
"Where did you two meet?"
"Well, Fitz spent 15 years in the Navy."
"Fifteen years? I didn't know he was a vet. My son is in the Navy. Did you two meet while in the Navy? That's where my son met his wife, Danielle."
"No – no. Fitz and I met at the retirement party his parents gave him. We became friends, then began dating once we realized we had a lot in common."
"Are you a water person, too?"
"No – no. I leave that to my wife. My experience is in litigation - mergers and acquisitions litigation, contract litigation, antitrust litigation, and other litigation, both at the trial and appellate levels."
"But Fitz and I both have the spirit of service", Olivia adds quickly. "When my husband was serving his country he used his law degree to defend the rights of enlisted women and men who were being taken advantage of by big corporations. He became known as the Negotiator because he negotiated a lot of agreements that benefited our soldiers and their families."
The crowd says amen in approval.
"I believed he could do the same thing for our city – help our city. And that's why I encouraged him to run for Council president."
The room breaks out in applause, now appreciating another side of Fitzgerald Grant. Fitz walks over to Olivia and kisses her on the cheek, and an old man stands, holding his hat close to his chest, and looks squarely at Fitz.
"Young man, you better hold on to the water lady. She's not only pretty, but she's smart too."
Everyone in the room laugh out loud. Johnson smiles approvingly, thinking he just found their secret weapon.
XXX
The doorbell chimes and Hildie scurries down the hall to open the door for Mona who is carrying in her canvas tote bag the samples they will use to select the new furniture and finishes for the renovated office. Mona wanted to arrive at the Olivia's home before 9:00 because they have a lot of decisions to make by the end of the day.
"Good morning Hildie", Mona says with a strained smile, trying to balance the tote bag, her purse, and the wrapped gifts.
"Good morning ma'am", watching the woman trying to juggle everything in her arms. "May I help you, ma'am?"
"That would be lovely, Hildie. Thank you so much", giving Hildie the canvas tote bag.
"Mona", Olivia screams as she walks quickly down the hall with her arms spread wide. "It's been forever", wrapping her friend in a tight embrace.
"It's good to see you too, Olivia", trying to maintain her balance, hug Olivia, and not drop her purse and gifts.
"Let me take those from you, Mona. You know you didn't' have to buy another thing."
"The small one is for Jolie and the bigger one is for Cena."
"Thank you. This is so thoughtful, Mona. Cena is going to love getting a gift."
"Well I hope she enjoys it", following Olivia down the hall toward the family room.
"Sit down Mona", Olivia says, setting the gifts onto side table.
Hildie enters the room carrying a tray with the coffee and tea service as Olivia and Mona get settled.
"Your bag is over there ma'am", nodding her head in the direction of the wall as she sets the tray onto the table.
"Thank you Hildie", Mona says, setting the purse onto the cushion next to her. Olivia looks at the purse and wonders if Mona is packing her gun today.
"So catch me up on everything", Mona says, pouring herself a cup of coffee.
"Well, everything is wonderful really – for the most part. Jolie is still colicky, though."
"Give it time, Olivia."
"Fitz is busy with the campaign and teaching, of course. Well, you know he has taught his last course."
Mona smiles nervously as she sips her coffee.
"So how is the campaign going?"
"It seems to be going well. He's done a few town hall meetings to better understand the issues and let people to know who he is. Would you believe I went to a meeting with him last night?"
"You did?" Looking at Olivia in surprise.
"I was there to support Fitz, of course, but the audience started asking me questions."
"What kinds of questions?"
"They wanted to know if I was the water lady."
"The water lady?"
"Apparently some of them have heard about our work and that's what they call me. Can you believe that?" She asks with a chuckle.
"Now that's funny", Mona says shaking her head as she sips her coffee. "I have to get that printed on a sign."
"They wanted to know how long Fitz and I had been married, how many children we have, and their ages. They didn't know that Fitz was a vet – that he spent 15 years in the Navy. That bit of information went over well."
"Wow. Sounds like you made Fitz more relatable", reaching for one of the pastries Hildie set on the table.
Olivia cocks her head to the side and gives Mona a puzzled look.
"Olivia, Fitz is a wonderful man, once you get to know him."
"What do you mean?"
"Fitz is usually all business - formal. That's probably why his team wanted you to join him at some of these events. You show a different side of him that isn't so – well so apparent."
"Well I don't see him that way at all", Olivia says, shrugging her shoulders. "And how is Tom?"
"Tom is Tom. He likes having me around the house, but I can't wait for the office to be finished. I hate working home when Tom is there. I can't get a thing done. He wants to talk all the time."
Olivia laughs out loud because Fitz was the same way when she started working from home.
"So how is the office coming along? Sounds like a lot of progress has been made."
"It has. You're not going to recognize the place once everything is completed – once we're up and running again."
"I can't wait", Olivia smiles brightly, rubbing her hands together. "I guess we better start making our selections so we can get them to the designer."
For the next three hours Olivia and Mona pore over catalogs to select furniture. They select a neutral-color, hardwood floors, and mesh window treatments to block the strong sun during the afternoons.
"Wow. That was a lot", Olivia says, flopping back against the chair cushion. "You know we didn't have to do any of this when we first moved into that office", Olivia says reminiscently.
"It was move right in and get to work", Mona laughs.
"It was. We've done a lot in that old office – had a lot of laughs over the years."
"We did", Mona smiles, leaning back against the sofa cushion.
"You'll stay for lunch, right?" Looking over at Mona whose stomach has begun to growl.
"Of course. I wouldn't dare miss one of Hildie's famous meals."
"Good. Relax for a while, Mona. I'm going to check on JoJo. I'm surprised she hasn't started crying yet."
As Mona scrolls through her phone reading Tom's latest text, Hildie walks into the room and begins to remove the tea and coffee service.
"Hildie, is the other Mrs. Grant around? I would like to speak with her."
"The other Mrs. Grant and her daughter no longer live here, ma'am."
Mona's eyes widen and she brings a hand to her mouth as Hildie walks from the room carrying the tray.
XXX
"Mona, I can't believe JoJo is still sleeping – not that I'm complaining mind you", Olivia says as she sits on the chair across from Mona.
"You better enjoy this time Olivia", placing the phone into her purse.
"You don't have to tell me twice. JoJo being colicky has everyone around here on edge these days."
"You'll get through it."
"That's what Colin said."
"Colin?"
"He called last week to update me on the Springfield Heights project. That's when he told me two of his children had colic."
"I see", Mona says, nodding as she stares out the large floor-to-ceiling windows admiring the landscaping.
Olivia wrings her hands, takes not a deep breath, and closes her eyes. She has been fretting all morning how she was going to tell Mona about Maura.
"Mona, there's something I need to tell you."
"What is it, Olivia?" Praying it is not what she thinks it is.
"Maura might not return to the foundation when we reopen. A lot has happened over the last few weeks", she adds quickly.
Mona looks at Olivia and remains silent.
"Mona, Fitz' mother and sister are no longer living here with us. Fitz – we - had to ask Nora to leave our home."
Maintaining a neutral face, Mona nods for Olivia to continue.
"Maura didn't have to leave but she chose to do so – to go with her daughter. It's understandable I suppose."
Mona listens intently.
"Mona, what I'm about to tell you isn't easy. In fact, it's rather embarrassing."
"You don't have to say anything, Olivia."
"We asked Nora to leave our home because Fitz found out – Marcella told Fitz – that she had to fire Nora. We had no idea."
"I know."
"What. What do you mean you know? You know what?" Stunned by Mona's response.
"I know Marcella fired your sister-in-law and I know why she did it" shaking her head, still unable to believe the things that woman was doing with Amir at the community center.
"You mean you knew all of this time and you said nothing to me about what was going on?"
"Olivia, I found out shortly after you were discharged from the hospital. I wasn't going to bother you with that nonsense. You were already dealing with the foundation flooding."
"You had no right to keep this from me. You are supposed to be my friend, Mona. You're not supposed to hide things from me. I hate that."
"And that's why I didn't tell you, because I am your friend. I wasn't going to allow Nora's bad behavior to destroy yours and Fitz' happiness."
"You should have told me Mona", frowning at her friend.
"When? When was I supposed to tell you, Olivia – when you were home enjoying your new baby? I wasn't going to do that to you. Besides, it wasn't my story to tell."
Olivia stares at Mona for a while, nodding as she processes what Mona just said.
"We have to figure out what we're going to do about the remaining courses. Rev. Walker is presenting in another week."
"I can finish the courses, Olivia. The last time Maura and I talked she was putting the final touches on the content."
"Thank you, Mona. And I'm sorry for getting upset."
"No apologies necessary, Olivia.
"Lunch is ready, ma'am", Hildie says, looking at the two women with her hands folded in front of her.
XXX
The community organizers get off the elevator and walk down the long hall in search of suite 4214. When they approach the suite, they are immediately met with the thickest, double glass doors they have ever seen.
"Don't touch that", Marcella says in a hushed voiced, swatting Jason's hand away from the glass emblazoned with Fitzgerald T. Grant Enterprises. "You're going to get fingerprints all over it."
Jason snatches his hand from the door and frowns at Marcella. Marcus finally pushes open one of the heavy glass doors and the visitors walk into the receptionist's area.
"Dang", Jason exclaims, looking bug-eyed around the massive space. "This place looks like something out of a magazine."
This time not even Marcella and Marcus can restrain their excitement when they see all of the contemporary oil paintings hanging on the walls, the plush furniture, and carpet so thick one could almost sink into it.
"I didn't know Mr. G had it like this", Jason says.
"Me either", Marcella says half to herself, thinking about Mrs. Grant's tiny office and wondering why she would spend her time doing community work when she is married to a man who is obviously quite wealthy.
"Why would he want to run for political office if he has a successful business like this?" Marcus wonders out loud.
"Hello", Sandra the office manager says with a kind smile.
Startled by the greeting and feeling as if they were just caught in a place in which they do not belong, the four mouths fall open as they look at the woman who is dressed impeccably in a cream-colored suit, sensible pumps, and holding a tablet in her hand.
"You must be Mr. Grant's friends. My name is Sandra Hardison. I am Mr. Grant's office manager."
The four continue to stare at the woman with their mouths hanging open.
"Mr. Grant is finishing up with his meeting and will be out shortly. You may have a seat", sweeping her hand toward the plush chairs.
The four stumble their way over to the waiting area and sit bunched together on the sofa like sardines in a can.
"May I get you some refreshments while you wait?" Scanning the dumbfounded faces. "Coffee, tea, soft drinks, cookies?"
"No, that won't be necessary", Marcella speaks for the crowd, and Jason rolls his eyes once again because he really wants some cookies.
"I'll have some of those cookies ma'am", Jason says eagerly and Rashid elbows him in the side.
"Ouch", Jason squeals. "What you do that for?" Looking at Rashid in annoyance.
"I'll be right back with those cookies", Sandra says with a smile.
"Do you always have to eat everywhere we go?" Marcella says through clenched teeth.
"Okay Geoffrey. You fly to Denver and meet with Scarsdale to get his signature on the contract."
"Will do, Fitz. I'll be leaving for Denver first thing in the morning."
The visitors sit up straight on the sofa when they hear Fitz' voice flowing down the hall. Their eyes grow the size of meatballs when they see their teacher walk into the waiting area looking like he just stepped off the cover of a Brooks Brothers catalog. Mr. Grant, who usually wears a blazer and a casual pair of slacks when he is at the center, looks good. He is wearing a navy blue suit that is tailored to perfection. His crisp, white shirt is topped with a red, striped tie. His black oxfords are shined to a high luster, a habit he picked up while in the Navy. And, he is wearing a pair of those funky, patterned socks Olivia bought him.
"Marcella, Rashid, Jason, Marcus", flashing a smile at his new advisers. "I'm glad you could all make it."
"Mr. Grant", Marcella, Rashid, and Marcus say in unison.
"Mr. Geeeeee", Jason says, bringing a fist to his smiling lips.
"Hello, Jason", smiling at the excited young man. "I would like for you all to meet my business partner, Geoffrey Tynes."
Geoffrey smiles politely and shakes everyone's hand.
"It's good to meet you all, but I must be going. Fitz, I will call you tomorrow."
"Have a safe trip, Geoffrey", shaking his partner's hand before turning back to the organizers. "Let's go back to my office so we can discuss your ideas."
Jason looks around the waiting area wondering where the lady is with the cookies. As they follow Fitz down the long hall, the four visitors glance around the space where they see more artwork of all kinds hanging on the wall and placed on pedestals. They pass an open door that reveals an expansive conference room with a wall of floor-to-ceiling windows, a huge conference table, and more artwork. Everything is so bright and shiny. With mouths hanging open, they look at each and shake their heads in disbelief.
"In here", stepping aside to let his guests enter his private office.
"Damn", Rashid says, unable to restrain himself any longer.
"Wow", Marcella says in awe, as she takes in the panoramic view of the city that lay before them.
"This is really something", Rashid says, observing all of the plaques and sports memorabilia staged around the room.
"Dang, Mr. G", Jason says. "I didn't know you had it like this. This looks like one of those offices in the magazines or the movies."
"Have a seat", sweeping his hand toward the huge conference table on the other side of the room, in front of the windows.
Jason's eyes almost bulge from his head when he sees the spread of sandwiches, salads, cheeses and crackers, crudités, pastries, drinks, fruit, and an assortment of cookies arranged on a table on the far wall.
"Please, help yourselves. I tried to remember the kinds of refreshments we had at the last class." Fitz smiles kindly.
Jason does not need to be told twice. He hurries over to the table, picks up the china and silverware, and begins to dig in, piling his plate high.
"I hope those are the cookies you like, Jason."
"He likes all cookies, Mr. Grant", Marcella says with a smile.
Marcella sets a vegetarian wrap on her plate, sits onto one of plush chairs situated around the conference table, and glances around the room, trying to take in everything without being too conspicuous. She has never seen anything like Mr. Grant's office. She wonders what the Grants' home looks like if his office is this fancy.
Marcella stares at the framed wedding photograph on his desk and smiles slightly, thinking Mrs. Grant was a beautiful bride. They look so happy. Her eyes travel to the long, wooden credenza behind his desk where more pictures of him, Mrs. Grant, and their children are displayed. Her eyes linger on the photograph of them all dressed in white and bare feet. Mrs. Grant is holding the baby and looking at Cena, who is squirming in Mr. Grant's lap and pulling his nose. They look like such a happy and loving family. Then she stares at the photograph of Mr. and Mrs. Grant walking on the beach at sunset and wonders who took the picture. It is obvious to anyone looking at the pictures that they are in love.
Fitz removes his suit jacket and sets it on the arm of his chair. He loosens his tie and rolls up his shirt sleeves.
"Mr. G, this is really good", Jason says, chomping down on his food with voracity.
"I'm glad you're enjoying it, Jason. Have as much as you like."
Marcus scans all of Fitz' degrees, certifications, and honors hanging on the walls. He is quite impressed by the man's accomplishments. There is more to Mr. Grant than he realized.
"So, tell me why do you think I'm going to lose the election?" Fitz asks, glancing at the faces.
"Mr. Grant, those politicians who are supposed to represent the interests of our communities are so far removed from what's going on in Tilghman, Roosevelt, and Springfield Heights", Marcella says.
"The weak, feckless elected leadership in office don't care about us. They rarely reach out to us – come to where we to talk to us", Marcus says.
"Only at election time", Rashid says, still admiring the office.
"They just want to preserve their positions", Marcus says, slowly circling the office and admiring everything.
"And we won't have it", Rashid says.
"Not any longer", Marcella chimes in.
"A change is going to come, and they're going to have to deal with us."
"Mr. Grant, we have a strong collation of young and enthusiastic activists in our communities who are ready for a change", Marcella looks at him intently.
"We use all forms of social media to get our messages out – to spread the word. And, we have registered thousands of people to vote for candidates who will support our causes."
"No more party politics."
"So, if you or any other politician wants to get elected, you're going to have to deal with us", Jason says, as he bites into a cookie. "The old way just won't work anymore."
Fitz looks at the four serious faces and nods, quite impressed with their passion and political acumen.
"I appreciate your candor. You have definitely given me a lot to think about tonight", Fitz says, looking down at his watch. "It's getting late, how about I have Sandra order a car to drive you all home and I'll get back in touch with you soon? Okay?"
The four young advisors nod and file out of the office and down the hall.
XXX
With the diaper bag hanging from her right shoulder Olivia walks into Triumph Tabernacle carrying Jolie in her arms. This is Jolie's first visit to church and she is dressed in a pink and yellow dress, yellow hat and booties, and wrapped in a pink and yellow blanket. Fitz follows behind Olivia carrying Cena, who is rolling Bike Princess up and down her father's arm. He swears Cena gets heavier with each passing day. As they enter the anteroom, Congressman Phillip Guildford and Councilman Johnson walk over to greet them.
"Good morning Fitz – Olivia", the congressman says to the couple and smiles at Cena.
"Good morning Phil", Fitz says, extending a handshake.
"Congressman", Olivia nods with a smile.
"It's good to see you back at church, Olivia."
"It's good to be back", Olivia says, rocking Jolie back and forth.
Melissa Johnson, one of the Sunday School teachers, walks down the hall, greets everyone a good morning, and reaches to take Cena from her father's arms.
"Pucker daddy", Cena says, cupping her father's face and giving him a kiss.
"Does mommy get one of those?" Olivia asks, feeling somewhat overlooked.
Cena gives her mother a peck on the cheek then walks down the hall toward the Sunday School holding Miss Johnson's hand.
"She's a beauty Fitz", Johnson says.
Fitz and Olivia smile.
"And this little one, does she ever wake up?" Peeking at Jolie who is fast asleep in Olivia's arms.
Olivia and Fitz burst out laughing, thinking if Councilman Johnson only knew how often Jolie is awake and crying.
"Olivia, I heard you were at hit at the community meeting the other night", the congressman says.
"Well, I just answered a few questions."
"From what I heard the crowd loved you – warmed up to you quickly."
"She was terrific", Fitz says, beaming proudly as he drapes an arm around her shoulder.
"That's good. That's good", the congressman says, dabbing his mouth with the handkerchief.
"Let's keep the voters excited."
The usher whispers the service is about to begin and beckons everyone to take their seats in the sanctuary. Olivia stiffens and holds Jolie tighter as she thinks about Marla. Fitz runs his hand up and down her arm in comfort as he guides her toward the entrance.
"And Fitz …." Johnson calls out before they enter the sanctuary. "Let's talk tomorrow about you meeting with those young organizers."
XXX
Olivia and Fitz marvel at the Praise Dancers leaping through the air and expressing the joy that is in their hearts for God. As Olivia rocks Jolie to the rousing music, hoping she does not start to cry, Melissa walks nervously down the aisle trying to get her attention.
"Mrs. Grant", Melissa calls out just above a whisper.
Engrossed in the performance, Olivia continues to watch the dancers and rock a sleeping Jolie.
"Mrs. Grant", Melissa says a little louder, and everyone within earshot turns around and looks at the Sunday School teacher. Olivia and Fitz look at the young woman with their brows knitted together, unsure of what Melissa wants.
"Mrs. Grant", Melissa repeats in a hushed voice. "Cena needs you."
"You stay, I'll go." Fitz says, beginning to stand.
"She wants her mommy", Melissa whispers again, wringing her hands nervously. Fitz frowns and looks at the woman somewhat stunned, and Melissa gives him an apologetic look.
"Hold JoJo, babe", Olivia whispers, placing the sleeping baby in his arms. And he nods slowly, wondering what is wrong with his daughter. Olivia follows Melissa from the sanctuary and down the hall toward the Sunday School classroom.
"What's the matter, Melissa? Is Cena not feeling well?"
"She's upset, Mrs. Grant", Melissa says nervously. "I couldn't get her to stop crying. She only wants you."
Olivia frowns because this is so unlike Cena. So, she tries to run down in her mind all of the possibilities of what could be wrong with Cena as they walk toward the classroom. Cena did not eat anything unusual this morning, just Fitz' panny cakes. She was fine when they left the house and on the drive to church. She was fine when she went to Sunday School. Olivia shakes her head, wondering what could have happened in the last 20 minutes. When they reach the classroom, Olivia sees all of the children are playing happily on the computers and reading biblical stories with the other teachers. However, Cena is sitting behind the desk on Miss Johnson's chair with tears streaming down her face. Olivia hurries over to her little girl and picks her up quickly to find out what has her so upset.
"Cee, baby, what's the matter?"
Olivia wipes the stream of tears from her daughter's face and Cena wraps her arms around her mother's shoulders and buries her tear-stained faced in her mother's neck.
"Are you hurt? Does your tummy hurt?" Rubbing Cena's back and trying to console her.
Cena shakes her head no, and peeks across the room at the other children playing on one of the computers.
"Mrs. Grant, let's talk back there", Melissa says softly, motioning toward the windows at the back of the room.
Olivia nods and follows Melissa to the back of the room.
"I think I know why Cena is upset", Melissa says cautiously, and Olivia gives her a perplexed look. "Deon said something that might have upset her – just kid stuff", Melissa interjects quickly.
Olivia continues to rock Cena and wonders what the heck Deon has said this time.
"What did he say?"
"I'm sure he didn't mean anything by it, ma'am."
"What did he say, Melissa?" Growing annoyed.
"Well …" Melissa begins to wring her hands nervously. "He said Mr. Grant and Jolie are bad", looking into Olivia's eyes, searching for a sign that it is safe for her to continue.
"Bad?" Olivia says in disbelief, wondering why Deon would think that a baby could be bad.
"Deon told Cena that her father and sister are bad because they are …"
"Because they're what, Melissa?" Now getting angry.
"Because they're - because they're - white", Melissa whispers nervously.
"What?"
"He's only five, Mrs. Grant. He doesn't know any better."
And now Olivia is angry, but continues to rock Cena, who has calmed down somewhat as she looks over at Deon who is laughing and pointing at something displayed on the computer screen. She now realizes that Fitz was right about Deon and they should have addressed his comments with his parents a long time ago.
"Are the Fords at church today?" Olivia asks angrily.
"Yes. They're in the sanctuary", Melissa says even more nervously.
"Good. We're going to settle this today. Thank you, Melissa. I'll take Cena back to the sanctuary with me."
"I understand, Mrs. Grant. Let me know if there is anything else I can do."
Cena peeks over at Deon one more time as her mother carries her from the classroom. She wraps her legs around her mother's waist as they walk down the hall toward the sanctuary.
"Is my daddy bad?" Cena asks sadly.
"Of course not, Cee. You know your daddy is a very, very good daddy."
"Are Grams and Gramps and Uncle John and Aunt Abby bad?"
"Not at all. They are all very, very good. And they all love you very much."
"And Uncle Bennie and Aunt Nora, too?"
Olivia stops walking and lifts Cena's chin so she can look into her daughter's eyes.
"Cee, remember when daddy and I talked to you about skin color? And we told you why daddy, you, JoJo, and I have different color skin?"
"Because God likes all of the pretty colors?"
Olivia smiles.
"That's right. And do you remember when daddy and I told you that the color of a person's skin does not make them good or bad?"
Cena nods.
"And we told you that what makes a person good or bad is not what they look like but the things they do."
Cena nods again.
"And daddy, Grams, Gramps, and your uncles and aunts do good things because they are good people. Okay?"
"But Deon said –"
"Deon doesn't know what he's talking about."
"He doesn't?" Looking at her mother with confusion in her eyes.
"No, he doesn't. You know how I know that?"
Cena shakes her head no.
"Because I'm the boss lady."
Mother and daughter laugh and continue walking toward the sanctuary. By the time Olivia and Cena get to the sanctuary the service is over and everyone is in the hall socializing. Olivia walks toward Jeanette and Hiram Ford and asks if she could meet with them in Rev. Walker's office.
"Is there something wrong, Olivia?" Jeanette asks. "You look upset."
"We need to talk, Jeanette - Hiram and Fitz too. Hopefully Rev. Walker can join us in his office."
Deon runs down the hall to his father, who scoops him up right away.
"Hey, buddy. Did you enjoy Sunday School?"
With the most angelic smile on his face, Deon nods his head up and down as Fitz walks from the sanctuary with Jolie, who is still sleeping. Fitz scans the hall for Olivia and Cena and frowns when he sees that Cena has been crying. He knows immediately that Deon has done something to upset her again.
"Liv, is everything all right? Is Cena okay?"
"We need to talk with Jeanette and Hiram in Rev. Walker's office – today."
Fitz nods, looking over at Jeanette and Hiram Ford.
"Hello Jeanette, Hiram. It's good to see you again", shaking Hiram's hand.
"Hello Fitz", Jeanette says. "How's the campaign going?"
"Just fine – just fine", he says somewhat distracted.
"Let me see that pretty baby", Jeanette says, pulling back the blanket and watching Jolie blow bubbles in her sleep. "She is just adorable, Olivia."
XXX
The Grants and the Fords all sit in Rev. Walker's office holding their children. Deon sits on his father's lap and Cena sits on Olivia's lap while Fitz holds Jolie. The leather chair squeaks as Rev. Walker leans back, looks at the two sets of families, and wonders what has precipitated this unplanned meeting.
"Jeanette, Hiram, it's good to see you today. How's Claire doing?"
"Mom is fine, recovering nicely from hip surgery. She's happy she can attend service online."
"Well you tell her I'm praying for her speedy recovery and I'll stop by to see her later in the week."
"She'll appreciate that, Rev. Walker."
Rev. Walker turns to the Grants, whose demeanor clearly indicates they are upset.
"So Olivia, you wanted us all to meet. What can I do for you today?"
For the next few minutes Olivia explains to the Fords and Rev. Walker what Deon said to Cena.
Rev. Walker looks at the two families and thinks a long while before responding.
"Proverbs 22:6", he says, looking at the Fords. "Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old he will not depart from it."
Both sets of parents nod their heads.
"We have to teach our children the right way, even when we are upset. They listen to everything, even when we don't think they are listening."
Hiram shifts in his chair.
"You must remember the experiences we have or don't have as children shape our attitudes as adults. During childhood, our attitudes are molded directly and indirectly by the race, ethnicity, and status of the people around us."
Olivia nods.
"Right now, there's a lot of racial turmoil in our country, and it doesn't seem like it's going to get better anytime soon. Our political leaders are race-baiting - making us all divided. So it is our responsibility to control the narratives in our homes – with our children."
"We don't teach Deon those horrible things", Jeanette's says defensively.
"Of course not, Jeanette. I'm not saying you do. Our children get messages from so many sources these days. They overhear adult conversations when we're talking on the phone or around the kitchen table. They hear the messages on TV, at the supermarket, on the playground. It's all around them."
Jeanette nods slowly.
"But as parents we must become more vigilant about what our children hear. And when they say something that can be hurtful or disrespectful to others, then we have to shut it down right away."
Fitz nods with a hardened face.
"It's common for children this age to assign positive traits to people of their own ethnic group and negative traits to people who look different. As a result, you may hear troubling comments like, 'That boy has funny-looking eyes' or 'Her skin is dirty', or what Deon said. The best way to respond is to rebut these statements in a calm and straightforward manner."
Hiram and Jeanette nod.
"Olivia, Fitz, there is no escape from the racial conflicts with which children must cope - avoiding the problem isn't helpful. Too much parental protection from life's realities may hamper a child's ability to cope with life as it really is."
Olivia and Fitz listen intently to Rev. Walker.
"Unfortunately, it is not enough to set a good example for our children. Nor can we shield children from bigotry. But we must fight it every step of the way – every day."
Both sets of parents nod.
"Olivia, Fitz", Jeanette begins, turning in her chair to look at the distraught parents. "I am so sorry that Deon said those awful things to upset Cena."
"I'm sure you are, Jeanette. But this is not the first time Deon has said inappropriate things to Cena. I never said anything in the past because I thought it was just child's talk. But this … "
"I had no idea. They've been friends forever", Jeanette says.
"I know", Olivia says, close to tears. "That's why this is so upsetting."
"Fitz – Olivia. I will assure you that nothing like this will ever happen again. Like my wife, I sincerely apologize for Deon's behavior."
Fitz can do no more than nod because he is fuming. He does not like when anyone hurts his family.
"Deon", his father says sternly. "I want you to apologize to Cena for what you said to her. And you must never say anything like that again. Do you understand?"
Deon nods, looking innocently at his father.
"So you won't say it again about the man on your job, daddy?"