Always in My Dreams

by dustypencils

AU. Olivia and Fitz have been married for 6 years and have a four-year-old daughter named Cena. Olivia runs a nonprofit she founded and Fitz is a retired Naval officer who negotiates business deals for high-profile clients. Olivia has left their home and Fitz does not know why or where she is. Find out how these two came together and why Olivia felt she needed to leave her family.

35. Chapter 35 New Year, New Beginnings

Disclaimer: I don't own anything related to the TV show Scandal.

A/N: I was always told nothing good happens after midnight, and that includes posting chapters. (Well some good things happen after midnight.) Tired eyes don't see typos after a while. Won't happen again, at least not to the extent to which typos occurred in the last chapter. Fingers crossed.

Everyone is right, Fitz and Liv have to get on the same page about making key decisions in their marriage. They both fall short in this area. Also, Charlie and Marla had to die. We're moving into a new arc and they are no longer needed. However, the residual effects of their actions will be felt for chapters to come.

Sweet160717, most controlling people don't see their actions as controlling. Fitz just wants to protect his family. He revealed who he is in the Mirage chapter. Guest 1, Olivia was surprised, not jealous, when she saw Bennie and Marion at the door because Maura told her Bennie couldn't come. Also, Olivia was trying to figure out if Bennie and Marion had come together or if they happened to arrive at the same time. You love Olitz smut. Those scenes are the hardest to write, but it must be done. Hahaha. Cleo, children watch everything and we should never underestimate what they know. Remember, a few chapters back Cena knew JoJo liked one toy better than another. You're right, Liv better show Bowtie some love, she might need him one day. And, Liv and her parents call him Ben because that's what he prefers. You know our families won't let us escape childhood nicknames, regardless of what we want to be called. Guest 2, I did stop Liv and Fitz' discussion after JoJo's bear-death experience. There was nothing more for them to say at that point. They were both physically and emotionally exhausted and have a lot to process. Also, they just want to finally get a good night's sleep and move forward. Focusing on Bennie and Marion does not mean I've lost focus on Liv and Fitz, quite the contrary. We'll see how the two couples' lives intersect in upcoming chapters. The opportunity to celebrate Christmas and a birthday is important to a six year old. It was always important to me. Monica, well said: Ben chose redemption; Charlie chose revenge. All of the characters make choices and must live with the consequences. We'll see how that Ben and Marion thing works out over time. BTW, Deon and his daddy behaved at the party. Guest 3, thanks for the compliment. Writing FF is a nice respite from my oh-so exciting technical job. Don't think anyone would pay me to do it professionally, though. BTW, you can cry wherever you want. Lurker Guest, so happy you're invested in this story, which is truly a compliment. I don't work in the medical field, I just thought it would be fun to hear the internal dialogue of a doctor exploring another doctor's body. Marion's actions also open the door for her to use essential oils on Ben, especially the Ben and Gerry's muscle rub. BTW, lurkers are always welcomed. Coralsue3, love when the story's themes resonate personally for a reader. Happy you did not allow your dreams to be deferred. Kudos to you!

Thanks to all for continuing to support this story. Your reviews are my entertainment. Here we go!

Chapter 35. New Year, New Beginnings

After weeks of researching cars online Fitz has finally decided to buy a Porsche. He has always been partial to well-engineered, high-performance cars and the Porsche will be a nice upgrade from the BMW. Although Olivia likes the model he has selected, she is concerned about the message driving such an expensive car will send to his constituents. He argues the people knew his status before they cast their ballot for him last November and he will not pretend to be poor.

Having read all of the technical specifications on the car, he is ready to see how the machine performs on the highway. Anxious to test drive new eight-speed Panamera Turbo, Fitz and Calvin leave the house way earlier than necessary for their nine o' clock appointment at the Porsche dealer. As he maneuvers the car from the dealer's parking the powerful engine roars, and he smiles as the car easily goes from zero to 60. Calvin's eyes bulge and he grabs ahold of the door, bracing himself for what he is sure is going to be a rollercoaster ride. The car hugs the city corners without fishtailing and the transmission shifts easily as he speeds up to enter the highway, and he smiles. The car is an engineering marvel.

"Fitzgerald, this is a powerful machine", Calvin says, finally relaxing and enjoying the ride.

"It is", shifting to a higher gear. The car performs on the highway the way he imagined it would. After driving around for about an hour, with mind made up, he heads back to the showroom. He is positive this is the car he wants.

"You'll have a lot fun driving it every day", Calvin says, climbing from the low-to-the-ground sedan. "But I must admit, it's way too much car for me."

Fitz thinks about what Calvin said as they walk into the showroom. The salesman walks toward the two men feeling excited about making his first sale of the week. Although he has not been selling luxury cars for long, he can always tell when someone has fallen in love and is ready to buy. Also, serious buyers always make an appointment to test drive the expensive cars. Those who simply want to brag to their friends they drove a Porsche usually walk into the showroom without an appointment.

"So what do you think, Mr. Grant? Powerful isn't she?" The salesman sales says, grinning broadly as he greets the two men after their test drive.

"It certainly is a powerful car - handles well. I also like the attention to detail in the interior - there just isn't anything not to like."

"That's terrific – terrific", the salesman says, jiggling keys in his pants pocket. So, would you like to drive it home today", already spending the commission he will make on the sale.

Fitz hesitates, frowning as he presses his lips together into a thin line, quickly weighing in his mind the pros and cons of buying such a car. No doubt, the car is well engineered, powerful, and fast. Like Calvin said, he will certainly enjoy driving it every day. But he is not sure if a Porsche is a practical car for a family man. Maybe he is being selfish. There is not a lot of room in the back for the girls and their car seats, and he is not sure Cena will feel safe riding in the small car. He needs his daughter to feel safe when she rides with him, so he strokes the side of face with his long fingers trying to decide. Calvin looks over at his son-in-law wondering what has caused the change in his demeanor.

"Fitzgerald, is something wrong?" The salesman and Calvin both look at Fitz who seems to be struggling to make a decision.

"I'm not sure if this is the appropriate car, Calvin." The salesman shifts nervously on his heels because indecision is the death nail for his commission.

"You love the car - you said so", Calvin continues.

"I do ..."

"Do you need to drive it again, Mr. Grant?" The salesman offers.

"No - no", Fitz says, waving his hand. "I'm sorry, I don't think this car is for me - not right now. I'm sorry to have wasted your time this morning", looking at the salesman apologetically.

"You can take the car home for the weekend if you like", the salesman persists.

"I'm sorry, but that won't be necessary. Let's go, Calvin", he says, turning and walking toward the glass doors.

"Come back if you change your mind, Mr. Grant …." The salesman calls after the two men who are already out the door.

XXX

The drive to their vacation home is much different this time than the first time they attempted to make the trip. There is no laughter, no singing, or playful teasing. The mood is solemn and serious as they approach the highway sign that indicates the first tunnel is two miles ahead. Stone-faced, Fitz grips the steering wheel and takes the exit on the right to bypass the tunnels. It does not matter that he is driving one of the largest SUVs on the market, he is not ready to enter the dark place that almost became his family's tomb. Olivia slides her hand across the console, resting it atop his as he takes the long route to their lakeside home. No words need to be spoken.

XXX

As he pulls the red Denali SUV up to the house, they both look up at the stately mid-century style home in awe. The videos do not do their mountain retreat justice, the house is exquisite. The exterior is made of sandstone and cedar siding that mimics the color of the few remaining oak trees that surround the property.

"Wow", they say in unison.

Olivia pushes open the truck's heavy door, jumps down onto the paved circular driveway, and slowly walks toward the house. She stops in the middle of the driveway and brings a hand to her lips as she looks up at the house. Fitz pops the trunk and walks around the back of the truck to retrieve their luggage and bags of groceries.

"A hand back here would be nice", he says playfully, peeking from around the truck at his wife who seems to be mesmerized by the house.

"I love it, babe. I just love it", looking around the terrain. "I can't wait to see inside." He hands her a small grocery bag and they walk up the six wide steps that lead to the massive front door.

"Get the keys out my pocket, Liv", trying to balance the suitcases and the rest bags.

Olivia unlocks the door and her eyes widen when she sees the beautiful entryway. Leaving her husband on the steps with all of the bags, she walks down the long hall to the large, open space. Lots of floor-to-ceiling windows line the walls, allowing natural light to flow through while also bringing the outdoors inside.

"Babe, this house is absolutely beautiful", Olivia says, slowly turning around the family room. I absolutely love the mid-century architecture."

Still struggling to carry all of the luggage and bags, Fitz kicks the front door close with his foot, sets their luggage by the door, and follows the long hall to the kitchen. He sets the grocery bags onto the table, pulls of his coat, and hangs it onto the back of one of the plush kitchen chair. Olivia walks from to the large dining room, which is just beyond the family. She nods when she sees the room is decorated with the vintage and contemporary furniture they selected. More floor-to-ceiling windows she thinks as she looks out to what will be a garden.

"So this is the great room", she says half to herself, remembering the description from the listing. This where everything seems to come together - the kitchen, family room, and dining room all connect.

"Liv", he calls out, walking out of the kitchen in search of his wife.

"I just love it, Fitz", she says excitedly. "I can see our family here. From the kitchen I can see the girls playing in the family room. And there are more windows in here."

"A little help would have been nice, Liv", not really joking this time as he stands in the doorway with arms folded across his chest.

"And what about this fireplace, babe? Isn't it something? It anchors the space so well. I love that it sits in that huge stone wall. Look how the stone wall extends the length of the room and beyond the windows. It matches the exterior stone in the backyard", she says excitedly.

He smiles as his wife spins around the space like Cena. He just wants her to be happy.

"Let's take a look at the rooms upstairs", she says, grabbing his hand and pulling him from the family room, down the hall, and toward the stairwell. Both sets of eyes grow wide when they walk into the master bedroom.

"This room is unbelievable, babe", Olivia says excitedly, bouncing up and down the way Jolie does when Fitz is holding her in his arms. "We're surround by so many windows. I love how the bed faces these huge glass doors."

Olivia slides open the glass doors that lead to their large private balcony and is immediately struck by the panoramic view. It seems like she can reach out and touch the mountains.

"We can sit out here in the mornings and have coffee or in the evenings and watch the sunset."

"I'm glad you like it. I want this to be a place you come to whenever you need to get away."

"I only want to come here with my family, Fitz", standing on her toes and pecking him on the lips. "Oh my goodness, it's starting to snow. Let's go for a walk, babe."

"Now?"

"Yes, now", grabbing his hand and pulling him back into the bedroom.

XXX

An hour later Olivia is leaning against the stove disinterestedly stirring the creamy mixture in the pot, wondering what her babies are doing right now. She stops stirring and smiles when she thinks about how Jolie tried to climb from her mother's arms to get to her when she and Fitz were getting into the truck this morning. Fitz looks up from the steaks he is preparing for the grill and frowns when he sees his wife has stopped stirring the mixture, again. Risotto requires constant stirring else it will burn.

"Liv", he calls to her when he sees her smiling absently, but she does not respond. "Olivia", he shouts, shaking her from daydreaming.

"What?" She responds with annoyance because he has disrupted her thinking about the girls.

"You're going to burn the risotto. You have to keep stirring or it's going to stick – going to burn. It's more of a technique than a dish, Liv." She rolls her eyes because that sounds like something that chef at the Cook school would say. Since he has become a chef, he thinks she is no longer capable of navigating her way around the kitchen, which she finds absolutely ludicrous since she taught him the basics of cooking.

"Fitz, please, I know how to do this", she says somewhat annoyed.

"Well, you're acting like you don't want to do it."

"Knowing how to do it and wanting to do it are two different things", she says with another roll of her eyes.

She told him when they were at the grocery store she did not want risotto for dinner tonight because she knew she would get stuck stirring the mixture for 45 minutes. But of course he insisted on having it for dinner. She has been stirring the creamy mixture for the past 30 minutes and she has at least another 15 minutes of stirring to do and her arm is tired. Sometimes she hates cooking with him because he always delegates the menial tasks to her, like stirring the risotto. And she does not want to stir risotto. All she wants to do is sit down and relax with a nice glass of red wine.

"I'm going to put the steaks on the grill", he says excitedly, dashing from the kitchen to get his coat. He does not care that it is only 18 degrees outside, he has been itching to use his new grill ever since they bought it.

"Put on your hat, mister", looking at him as he walks back into the kitchen pulling on his coat. "I don't want to get sick because you're sick." He digs into his coat pocket, pulls out the colorful skull cap and yanks it haphazardly onto his head.

"Watch for my signal - for when to drop the asparagus into the steamer and when to add the cheese to the risotto", giving his last set of commands before grabbing the platter of steaks from the counter and walking onto the deck.

"Why do I always get stuck doing the hard work?" She yells out the kitchen window. Face red from the whipping wind, he turns and glares at her standing in the warm kitchen.

"Do you want to come out here?" Rubbing his hands together over the grill's flame in an attempt to get warm.

She laughs, shaking her head from side to side as she slides the window close, shutting out the bitter cold air. She watches him hop from foot to foot trying to stay warm and thinks he looks utterly ridiculous wearing the silly, lopsided hat Cena choose for him when they were at the mall last winter. He is so focused on grilling the steaks he is unaware the snow is quickly piling on top of his head. She smiles, thinking her father is right, Fitzgerald Grant is a good man. Giving the risotto two more quick stirs, she removes the pot from the stove and sets it onto the metal trivet on the counter.

"Hi", she says, standing next to him wearing her white down jacket, red cashmere mittens and hat. She slides her arm around his waist and the heat from the grill warms her face. He warms her.

"Hi", giving her that goofy smirk she loves so much. "What are you doing out here? It's freezing."

"We're in this together, babe", smiling broadly as she stands on her toes to kiss his ice-cold lips.

"What about the risotto?" He asks seriously with panic in his eyes.

XXX

No part is off limits tonight, every inch is fair game. She is his wife and he is her husband and they will enjoy each other fully completely. So, as the falling snow blankets their secluded lake house mouth and hands freely explore each and every part of the other's body. Up here they do not have to worry if they locked their bedroom door to prevent Cena from entering unannounced, even though they have told her to always knock before coming into their bedroom. Nor do they have to worry if their guests will hear the sounds of lovemaking. Up here it is just them. They have not been together like this since before that fateful day, so they take their time relishing in the feel of each other, teasing and bringing each other close to the edge without going over.

As she rides up and down him, Fitz admires his wife making love to him, pleasuring them. He wonders if she knows how utterly and helplessly in love he is with her. With arms stretched above his head they gaze into each other's eyes as she rides him slowly. The pained look on her face belies the pleasure she is feeling. They both shiver each time her hard nipples brush against the hairs on his chest. The sensation is exhilarating. He cups her round butt and kisses her fervently as he begins to thrust upward. Feeling his stomach muscles tighten against hers, she knows he is close to the point of no return, so she switches positions, pulling him back. She slides a leg between his leg and they grind with abandon.

She brushes her clitoris up and down his thigh and her breathing quickens, she is getting close. He kisses her slowly, yet passionately, bringing her back from the edge. He rolls her onto her stomach and she raises up on all fours as he sits on his knees. Holding his hardness in his hand, he runs the swollen head back and forth, from clitoris to where her cheeks meet, coating it with her wetness. And after a few moments of the wonderful sensation she looks over her shoulder, signaling her permission; ready again to give all of herself to him.

He inches in slowly, eliciting a gasp and she grips the sheets, her body tenses. Fully seated inside, he closes his eyes because the tightness is always unsteadying. With chest rising and falling, he resists the desire to move, not yet, always allowing her time to adjust. She looks at him and nods, and he begins to move slowly and deliberately. And after a few moments she relaxes and her body moves with his.

"Livvie, Livvie, Livvie", he whispers as he pumps slowly.

She raises up on her knees and he pulls her close to his chest, biting her shoulder tenderly. He caresses her breast and slides his other hand between her legs, rubbing his palm up and down her wetness. He pumps slowly.

"Ahhh, Livvie. Baby you feel so good - so good." She turns to him and he kisses her with intensity as he inserts his long finger deep inside.

"Oh my god", she cries out. He is stimulating her in every way and she feels amazing. He feels amazing. She lifts his hand to her mouth and licks and sucks each finger as she rides the hand doing all sorts of wonderful things between her legs.

Completely relaxed, she bends forward, allowing him to go deeper, and he does. The intensity of the sensation increases and he pumps faster. She tingles everywhere and without warning her body is wracked with the most glorious spasms as her screams flow through the glass sliding doors and echoing off the mountain tops.

She trembles around his fingers and hardness and he is losing his mind in the most wonderful way. Holding onto her hips, he rides her hard. He is close. She reaches around and strokes his sac and his face contorts with pleasure, and he willingly falls over the edge. He cums hard, releasing his seed in her, and for a few seconds his body is numb. Then he feels exquisitely alive, vibrating all over. Panting and glistening with sweat, he lie on her back, trying to recover from the most beautiful feeling in the world. Orgasms are much better than the feeling he gets from drinking the best single malt scotch ever distilled, ever. Beginning to soften, he slowly withdraws, licking beads of sweat from her back and covering her round cheeks with kisses. Inhaling deeply, he runs his nose up and down where the cheeks meet, and inhales. He loves her scent. He loves everything about her. Never able to get enough of tasting her, he rolls onto his back and pulls her onto his face, and she instinctually moves up and down on his long wet tongue.

"Oh, Fitz …." She says breathlessly.

He spread her lips wide and swirls his tongue across the sensitive clitoris before taking it between his lips. It is too good. It is too much. She digs her nails into his shoulders and screams, twitching uncontrollably again. He slurps up her juices and gives her one last kiss before sliding up the bed and pulling her close. They are both sexually and emotionally satiated. They needed this. They needed to be them again. They are exhausted.

He spoons his wife and she intertwines her hand with his and smiles. He always likes to cuddle afterward. Holding her impossibly close, he inhales her scent, their scent, then kisses down her neck and shoulder.

"More than anything, Mrs. Grant", he whispers groggily in her ear. "I love you more than anything."

"And I love you more than anything Fitzgerald Thomas Grant the Third", smiling as her eyes close.

XXX

Wrapped around her body like a snake languishing lazily around a tree branch in the blazing sun, his warm breath flows onto her neck. A long arm wraps around her torso and a hand cups a leaking breast he spent an inordinate amount time cherishing last night, thanking his baby girl Jolie all the while. His right leg drapes over her hip, pinning her down into the plush pillow top mattress. She slowly opens her eyes, trying to get her bearings. She does not quite remember where she is until she feels the heat and weight of her husband's body on hers, then she remembers last night. It was certainly a long night of reconnecting and rediscovering each other she thinks as she frowns. Her leaking breasts are heavy with milk and a no longer interested JoJo is hundreds of miles away. Fitz provided them some relief last night, but the licking and sucking also made them sore. To make matters worse, has to pee, really bad, but she is trapped by his limbs and the weight of his body.

She peels his hand from her breast, places it onto his hip, and slides her achy body from his entrapment. Shivering from the absence of his body heat, she rushes to the bathroom to relieve her inflated bladder. She groggily turns on the faucet and lets out a scream that will surely wake the cemetery dwellers when she looks into the mirror. With eyes and mouth wide open, she stares in the mirror holding the soap in one hand and the other the hot water handle. Her screams awaken him and he laughs, silently congratulating himself for a job well done. He lie on his side facing the bathroom and waiting for her to return.

"Turn off the water", he yells, his voice somewhat hoarse. "I know how much you hate wasting water."

He smirks, imagining the look on her face and when he no longer hears the water running in the sink. Naked as a jay bird, she slowly emerges from the bathroom with a look of shock and disbelief on her face and a hand resting on her décolleté.

"Why are you making so much noise this morning, Mrs. Grant?" He says with his scratchy morning voice and a smile on his face.

"Fitz …"

"Livvie", his smile broadening.

"Fitz …." She seems unable to say much more than his name.

"Livvie", imitating her one-word sentences.

Now sitting up in bed with the crumpled sheets draped across his waist, he admires his wife from head to toe, taking responsible for the bite marks on her smooth brown skin. Her hair is a wild, curly mess. He takes responsibility for that too. Her breasts are full, and he licks his lips at the sight of the firm brown, nipples. He thanks Jolie for those. Her stomach still has a slight bump and her hips are curvy and her thighs thick. He licks his lips again, loving what pregnancy does to her body. As his eyes travel to the patch of black hair he begins to harden. He stretches out his hand beckoning her to him and she walks slowly toward the bed, eyes and mouth still wide and a hand on her neck. He pulls her onto the bed and kisses her deeply and she returns the kiss in kind. He gently pushes her onto her back, stretching her arms above her head, and they stare into each other's eyes with a mixture of love and desire.

"I love you, Mr. Grant", fingering the five-carat diamond necklace he slipped around her neck sometime between last night and this morning while she was sleeping.

"I love you, Mrs. Grant. Thank you for my newest daughter", smiling lovingly and pecking her on the lips then the tip of her nose. "With everything that has been going on I could not find the right time to give it to you – until last night", he says breathlessly, kissing her again.

"Add this to the earrings and bracelet you gave me for daughter number one and now we're going to have to get a safe in the house."

He kisses her neck.

"Take it off, Fitz. I don't want to ruin it", rolling onto her side so he can remove the expensive necklace.

"Keep it on. I like the way you look wearing it."

"Keep it on? I'm going to shower then go downstairs to prepare your breakfast."

"We're alone in our home and we can do whatever we want. So keep it on", pulling her on top of him and running his hand around her bottom.

"Okay, mister, that's enough for now", slipping out of his arms and walking back into the bathroom.

With a smile as wide as the Dickey River he smiles as he listens to the water in the shower beat against the glass walls. He looks out onto the magnificent view, absently stroking his chest and thinking he is a lucky man.

"Breakfast is ready in an hour", she says, tying the white silk robe as she walks from the bathroom.

He stretches his hand out to her and she smiles as she crawls onto the bed, brushing her lips across his. He caresses her butt through the silk robe and runs his hand through her damp hair. Tracing her mouth with his tongue, she moans, getting aroused.

"I love your toothpaste", he says with a smirk and she swats him on the shoulder and rolls out of bed.

"You're silly, now get showered", she orders as she goes downstairs to the kitchen.

"I love you too", he calls after her through the laughs.

He leans back against the headboard reflecting on his life as he watches the snow cap the massive mountaintops. His family survived the most horrific event, but they all are now safe. Geoffrey is doing a fantastic job running the business, and now he is ready to start a new phase of his life as the president of the City Council. He throws back the sheets and swings his legs from the bed but he cannot feel the floor. Suddenly he feels anxious – untethered. His heart is beating too hard and too fast, like a race horse has taken it over. Sweating profusely, he collapses back onto the bed, gripping the sheets tightly until his knuckles are white.

"You better get down here, babe. I have a surprise for you", she calls out in a sing-song voice.

The room seems to be spinning and he cannot catch his breath. He struggles to take deep, cleansing breaths to steady himself but his chest is tight. He is afraid. He does not know what is happening. He cannot call for his wife. After a few moments the room stops spinning and his heart rate slows. He lie on the bed staring up at the ceiling and his hand falls open, releasing the fistful of sheets. Breathing heavily, he runs his fingers through his hair wondering what the hell just happened. He stands on his wobbly legs and makes his way to the closet in search of his luggage and pulls the brown plastic bottle from the inside zipper. He a pill into his mouth, sits on the floor, and leans against the wall thinking 12 minutes until the pill kicks in. Thirteen minutes later he heads to the shower.

XXX

"What took you so long, babe? Your breakfast is going to get cold."

"I guess you wore me out", he says tiredly as he sits at the table.

"So what are we going to do today?" Dancing over to the table with his special surprise.

"How about we stay in today?" Still shaken from whatever happened in the bedroom.

"Stay in? Let's go exploring, babe. We haven't had a chance to see what's around here."

"There are several inches of snow out there, Liv. I thought we'd stay in today", trying in vain to convince his wife not to go out today.

"When has snow ever stopped you Mr. Outdoors? You love skiing. Have you forgotten how you insisted on teaching Cena how to ski when she was four?"

"Where's my surprise?" Trying to change the subject.

"Ta – dah", she says, lifting the tray from the table and pulling off the red and white checkered napkin.

"What's that?" Twisting his face in confusion.

"Hildie's famous cinnamon rolls, silly", playfully slapping him on the shoulder. "I finagled the recipe from her before we left. I've been up all morning making them while you were upstairs sleeping." He looks suspiciously at the tray of rolls thinking they do not look anything like Hildie's delicious rolls.

"Open", she says, pinching a piece of the pastry, and he opens his mouth reluctantly.

Smiling proudly, she slides the pastry into his mouth and with the first chew he knows immediately that whatever is in his mouth definitely is not Hildie's wonderful cinnamon rolls. She nods her head up and down, grinning expectantly until he stops chewing. Wanting to spit out the undercooked dough, he quickly assesses the range of acceptable responses as he looks at his wife's excited face.

"What's the matter, babe?" Furrowing her brow. "Don't you like it?"

"Perhaps you left out an ingredient", he says delicately, holding the dough in his cheek.

She snatches the plate of faux cinnamon rolls from the table, stomps over to the waste bin, and tosses the undercooked pastries into the trash.

"I'm going upstairs to put my things in the closet - you should do the same", she says snippily as she storms from the kitchen.

"Liv, they weren't that bad", he calls after her, but she continues walking. "We can go exploring if you want."

Confident she is upstairs, he spits the dough into the napkin and tosses it into the waste bin with the rest of the dough.

XXX

After hiking in the snow and exploring the immediate area all morning they spend the afternoon preparing a big pot of soup, and of course Olivia was tasked with chopping the vegetables.

"Let's sleep down here tonight, babe", dropping the carrots, onions, celery, and potatoes into the simmering chicken broth.

"Down here?" He asks, looking up from the dough he is rolling out to make biscuits.

"This smells terrific, babe. I hope it tastes as good as it smells."

"It will", watching her chop the fresh parsley. "Don't put that in until the very end, Liv."

"I know, Fitz", she says in frustration. "I want us to sleep in front of that huge fireplace, babe."

"On the floor?" He asks in disbelief. He has no desire to sleep on the hardwood floor.

"I'll make it comfortable for us. We have lots of blankets and pillows."

"Do we have another mattress?"

"Come on, babe. It'll be fun - like camping indoors. And we'll have such a good view of the outdoors from down here." Fitz sighs thinking his back is going to be killing him in the morning.

XXX

After dinner is consumed and the kitchen is cleaned, Olivia sets up their bed in front of the fireplace. Fitz looks at the thin sheets covering the floor and know he is not going to feel good at all in the morning.

"You're awfully quiet tonight, babe. Is everything okay? Do you need another pillow?"

"I'm fine", he says somewhat distantly, watching the flames from the fireplace dance across the walls.

"You'd tell me if you weren't feeling all right? I don't want us to have any secrets."

"I'm fine Liv", kissing the top of her head. "I'm just a little tired from the hike."

"You're getting old, Grant.", and he winces slightly. "I'll take it easy on you tomorrow", she laughs playfully.

"Are you happy here? This place is for you, Liv, to come here whenever you need to get away."

"I wish we could stay here forever", smiling dreamily as she watches the winter sun dip behind the horizon. And Fitz, I don't want to come here alone. I want to enjoy this beautiful scenery with you and our girls." He nods, pulling her close as they watch the sunset.

"Babe", grazing her fingernails up and down his arm.

"Hmm?" Feeling relaxed after their last round of lovemaking.

"We haven't talked about the - the crash. I want us to talk about it so we can move on - put it behind us", she says quickly when she feels his body stiffen. His face hardens in the room lit by the fireplace and the bright moon.

"I was so scared, Fitz. When I saw that truck on top of the car—those wheels crushing down on your chest …." The tears begin to flow

"Ssh", running his hand up and down her arm.

"I have to get it out. I don't want to bottle my feelings – my fears – and let them come between us. You are my best friend, my lover, my husband. And you were hurting and I couldn't help you. I felt so powerless.

"And when I woke up in that hospital and learned what happened - I was really scared. I couldn't breathe. I thought you - our girls - were all gone. I thought life was playing a cruel trick on us."

He pulls her closer and kisses her shoulder.

"And when I got to Mercy and saw you in that hospital bed, connected to all of those wires, I was even more scared, but I knew I had to be strong for you and Cena. I had to take of our family.

"And when we got home, everything was different—you were different."

"Everything is fine now, Liv. I don't want you to get upset. It's all over", cupping her breast tenderly.

"I didn't encourage it, Fitz. I never -"

"I know. Let's not talk about it anymore. It's time to put it all behind us – leave the past in the past", he says softly. "Okay?"

"Okay", intertwining her hand with his. "But Fitz, I don't want us to ever take anything for granted – Grant", nudging him playfully with her elbow. "I want us to always remember how important every day and every minute we have together is", she says seriously. "I don't know what I would ever do without you. It scares me so much to think there will come a day when we won't be together."

"Me too", his first true admission. He pulls her closer and rubs his hand up and down her leg.

She smiles because she feels safe with him. The weight of the tragedy has been lifted and the dark cloud has passed. She closes her eyes and falls asleep with a smile of contentment on her face.

After lying awake for the past few hours in the dimly lit room, he looks over at his wife to make sure she is asleep before sliding from under the covers and grabbing his sweatpants. He places a couple of logs onto the fire then quietly creeps upstairs to their bedroom. He stares at his reflection in the bathroom mirror thinking he looks the same, but he is not the same. Something is different. His fingers trace scar on his side where Marion performed the emergency procedure that saved his life and the tears begin to fall. Life is so short, so unpredictable.

XXX

Unable to sleep last night, Fitz stands from their makeshift bed on the hard floor twisting and turning his body trying to get rid of the kinks in his back. He looks at his wife who is sleeping peacefully with her mouth slightly open and thinks he is never sleeping on the floor again. He puts a few more logs onto the fire then walks into the kitchen to prepare breakfast.

"Mmm, something smells good this morning", she says", wrapping her arms around his waist as he fries bacon. "How long have you been up?" She asks, trying to sneak a slice of bacon from the plate, but he swats away her hand.

"Not too long", lying effortlessly. "I want us to get an early start back home today."

"I'm going to miss having you all to myself", kissing down his back. "I can't believe three days have passed so quickly."

"Sit down and have some breakfast", pecking her on the lips.

"When do you think you'll be ready to start work? Council starts soon."

"Orange juice?" He asks, walking over to the refrigerator.

"Yes, please." He fills her glass, sets the pitcher onto the table, and turns back to the stove.

"I'll contact Darius to find out how much time is needed to prepare for the confirmation", and she nods.

"Babe, this is good. Did you squeeze it?"

"I did", setting a stack of waffles topped with blueberries and strawberries and powdered sugar onto the table.

"Mmm", she moans, eyeing the stack. "Babe, you've outdone yourself this morning. Cee would be jealous if she knew you made waffles."

"My apologies about your cinnamon rolls yesterday", kissing her cheek.

"I don't want to talk about that", she says curtly. "So what time do you want to leave?" Stuffing a forkful of waffles into her mouth.

"Around noon", cutting the fork into his stack of waffles.

"That should give us plenty of time to clean up, do the laundry, and pack away our clothes."

He nods and takes a sip of the orange juice. Olivia glances at him enjoying his breakfast, trying to figure out the best way to broach what she has been thinking about for months.

"Babe, I've been thinking …." Pushing a blueberry around on her plate with the fork.

"About?" Filling his mouth with the waffles dripping with way too much syrup.

"About moving."

"Moving?" He stops chewing and looks at her in disbelief.

"To the city", she adds quickly.

"To the city? Why would you want to move to the city?" He asks with incredulity, slowly setting his fork onto the side of the plate.

"The girls need more diversity, babe. We talked about this before we were married."

His jaw twitches because he is not interested in moving. He loves their home and thinks Church Falls is the perfect place to raise their children. Olivia sees the slight twitch of her husband's jaw and starts to plead her case.

"There isn't much diversity at Church Falls Elementary. Cee's school is predominately white. Our community is predominately white –"

"And I'm predominately white", he says half-jokingly.

"Be serious, babe. We talked about this - before we had children."

"I know. I just don't know if we need to think about this now. Cena is only six." She hears the slight change in his tone and knows he is slipping into lawyer mode.

"Babe", sliding her hand on top of his. "Children start recognizing differences in race around five or so", and he sighs.

"So you think we have to think about moving – now?"

"I'm just saying we have to think about getting ahead of it before she is exposed. The rest of the world does not look like Church Falls. She and JoJo need to see that." She watches as he processes what she is saying and sees his body become more rigid.

"Babe, we agreed to raise our children to understand both sides of their culture."

"And we are - for the most part. We've talked to Cee about why her parents look different and why she looks different. We've exposed her to the two different cultures. She has tons of multicultural toys and books. I know why you put her in that dance class", he adds.

She frowns slightly.

"You said it was to give her something of her own when JoJo came home, but it wasn't just that, Liv", giving her an I-know-what-you've-been-up-to look.

"But she's not immersed in a diverse environment on a daily basis, babe." He pushes his plate away, leans back in the chair, and sighs. This is not a conversation he wants to have, not right now.

"So can we start looking at houses when we get back?"

"Well, we can start discussing it more", he says, standing and removing the dishes from the table.

"If we're going to move I'd like to do it before September - before the new school year starts", sipping her orange juice. "It's difficult starting a new school in the middle of the year."

"You've really been thinking about this, haven't you?" Staring at her from the kitchen.

"I have. I remember what that was like when my family moved here in the middle of the school year. It was hard", she says reminiscently.

"Well we can discuss it after I get settled into Council. There's going to be a lot to do in my first few months, Liv. Okay?"

"Okay", she says, removing the rest of the dishes from the table. They wash the dishes in silence for a few minutes. "Babe, this is a new year, new beginnings. We have an opportunity to hit the reset button." He frowns and hands her a dish to dry. He is not interested in hitting any reset button.

"I can't wait to see the girls", she says, trying to lighten the mood.

"Me too", he says somberly as he looks out the window thinking they do not have a shovel or snowplow.

"I hope dad and your dog are okay", taking the plate from his hand.

"I'm sure they're doing fine."

"You and dad are becoming good friends, babe, best buds. I like that."

"I like your father. He's a good man."

"He said the same thing about you. You wanna know else he said?" Looking up at him with a smile. "He said he could not have picked a better husband for me if he had tried."

Trying to control his annoyance, he passes her another plate to dry. He hates when she asks him to guess and she does not give him a chance to do so.

"Well that was nice of him to say", still stuck back at the let's move bombshell.

XXX

Olivia kicks him on the leg twice trying to waken him from his slumber, but he is in that zone where nothing can shake him awake. He was up way too late last night playing with Cena and Jolie then talking with her father about local politics before he retired to the study to finalize his confirmation speech. Now he is paying for it.

"Fitz", kicking him again, which still does not elicit a response. "Fitz, wake up", she says with frustration, giving him a hard kick that startles him awake.

"What –what's the matter?" Shooting straight up in bed.

"Your dog wants to go for a walk", she says flatly, looking at his startled face in the dark.

"What? Who?"

"Your dog - he needs to go out", glancing over at the door where the dog is whimpering in the hall outside their bedroom door. Poor Bowtie dare not enter the bedroom since he knows Olivia does not like hm.

"Can't you take him out just this once?" Fitz says tiredly.

"I told you I don't do dogs", she says stubbornly.

"Come on, Liv. Just this once. You know I have a long day."

"Not my problem", rolling over and pulling the covers over her shoulders. "You better hurry before he has an accident on the floor, again." Fitz snatches the covers from over his legs and stomps toward the door to take Bowtie out back to do his business.

"Put on your robe. My parents don't –"

"Go back to sleep", he growls. "Come on Bowtie."

XXX

In two hours her husband will be confirmed as the next president of the City Council and she wants to look her best for him. Standing in front of the large mirror in their bedroom she applies the finishing touches to her makeup. He snakes his arms around her waist and stare at their reflections in the mirror.

"Wear your necklace today."

"My necklace?" Turning around in his arms and looking at him in surprise.

"For Jolie", kissing slowly down her neck.

"It's too much, Fitz. I don't want to appear –"

"Wear it. I love seeing it on you."

"But –"

"Wear it."

"Fine", pulling his hands from around her waist. "But if the press writes about it -"

"Then they write about it."

He fastens the necklace's decorative clasp and she reaches up and caresses his face, causing the diamond bracelet to slide up her arm.

"Mr. President."

"Mrs. Grant", caressing her breast through the white silk dress. "Beautiful", he whispers in her ear as he runs his tongue over the diamond earrings.

"Fitz", she admonishes him.

"You know you're going to regret being mean to Bowtie", he says, looking in the mirroring and knotting his tie.

"I'm not being mean. I just don't recognize him."

"You shouldn't be like that, Liv. You're being childish."

"Childish?"

"Yes, childish", pecking her on the cheek before grabbing his suit jacket from the bed. "Bowtie knows you don't like him. Dogs sense that sort of thing."

XXX

The mayor's ballroom in City Hall is teeming with officials, civic leaders, family members, and the media. There is excitement in the air because today is viewed as a shift from the old to the new. The confirmation of Fitzgerald Grant as the new president of the City Council marks the end of the Marla Briggs era and the people are hoping it is the beginning of a new direction for their city. They want their city government to function effectively and want fresh faces in leadership. They want to put the scandals behind them and they want Mayor Wilson out of office.

The Grants and Popes sit on the front row watching as Fitz and Olivia begin to embark on the next phase of their lives. For awhile it did not seem like they would ever get pass the tragedy, but yet here they are. They are moving on. Gerry holds Cena on his lap and Gwendolyn holds Jolie in her arms. John holds Ethan on his lap while Abigail struggles to keep down her breakfast. With his legs crossed, Bennie sits next to his mother, folding and unfolding the thin paper program. He rescheduled a few surgical procedures this morning so he could be here to support his brother and Olivia.

Olivia stands proudly on stage, in front of her husband, grinning from ear to ear as she balances the Holy Bible on her open palms. She thinks he looks absolutely handsome in his navy blue suit, crisp white shirt, and red silk tie. She smiles to herself when she thinks about how she stood in the bathroom doorway earlier watching him add extra mousse to his hair. He was so nervous she had to put on his lucky cufflinks that now sparkle at his wrists. Her husband is being confirmed as the new president of the City Council, making him the second most powerful public official in the city.

Mayor Theodore Wilson stands on the stage before the man who is now best positioned to advance or destroy his political agenda, and the two adversaries glare at each other through fake smiles. As the city's executive, Wilson is duty-bound by the city's charter to swear in the new Council president, and he is none too happy. But he widens his politician's smile and carries out his official duty.

XXX

After the confirmation ceremony is over Fitz and Olivia walk down the marble hall of the third floor of City Hall holding hands and grinning from ear to ear. This is his first day on the job.

"Our parents are taking the girls to the zoo", and he nods.

"Good, you can hang out here with me for the day."

"What?"

"Stay with me today", he says with a big smile as they approach the suite of offices for the president of the City Council.

"Good morning Council President – Mrs. Grant, a well-dressed man says as he passes them in the hall.

"Good morning", they say in unison.

"Fitz, I have work today", giggling like a schoolgirl.

"I have a big office - we can work together - and do other things."

"Welcome to City Council, Mr. President", the elderly woman smiles as she passes them in the hall. "Good morning, Mrs. Grant", nodding at Olivia.

"Thank you", they both say again.

"Get your mind out of the gutter, mister."

They laugh like two young lovers as they approach the reception area of his office suite, stopping suddenly when they see a young, attractive woman sitting at the desk.

"Council President Grant", the woman smiles as she stands and extends her hand to Fitz. My name is Victoria Sanchez, I am your administrative assistant." Fitz continues holding onto Olivia's hand and shakes his assistant's hand with the other hand.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Ms. - Sanchez", looking at her curiously. He was not expecting to have an assistant today. "This is my wife - Olivia Grant."

"It's a pleasure to meet you as well, Mrs. Grant",

Victoria slyly sweeps her eyes over Olivia, assessing her appearance. It is a habit she developed long ago, sizing up other attractive women, trying to find a flaw. With the exception of all those diamonds she is wearing, Mrs. Grant does not appear to be a flashy woman. The outfit she is wearing is simple, timeless, and expensive. Very expensive. The two women shake hands.

"It's a pleasure to meet you as well, Victoria", and the woman blanches when Olivia takes the liberty to use her first name.

"HR gave me to you sir", smiling at Fitz, and Olivia raises an eyebrow at the odd choice of words. Mrs. Carson retired - with all of that scandal business from the previous president." Olivia tenses and Fitz squeezes her hand gently.

"Let me show you to your office, Mr. Grant", Victoria says, walking from behind her well-organized desk and toward his office.

As Olivia and Fitz follow Victoria into the office, she notices the stilettos Victoria is wearing and the tailored dress. She wonders if the woman dresses like that every day or if this look is for her first day on the job.

"Wow", Olivia says when she sees all of the flowers and fruit baskets welcoming him to the Council.

"They're from the mayor, various Council committees, and your staff on this floor. I have all of the cards and will respond to each of them appropriately."

"Thank you, Ms. Sanchez."

"Babe, the décor of this office is quite traditional, not at all like your offices at Grant Enterprises."

"And the desk is huge, much bigger than mine at Grant Enterprises, don't you think?" Giving her a wink which does not go unnoticed by Victoria.

"Behave", she says softly. "I better start to fill it", reaching into her large purse and pulling out two framed photographs.

"There are my girls", smiling proudly as Olivia sets a photograph of them on their wedding day and another with them and the girls at the carnival. Victoria glances quickly at the photographs then turns to Fitz.

"May I get you anything, sir?" Smiling politely.

"Coffee if you don't mind. Sweetheart, would you like something?"

"No, babe. I have to get going soon. I also have to go shopping for everything you need to prepare dinner for Marion and Ben on Saturday.

"I guess it's just coffee", he says, smiling politely at his assistant.

"I'll be right back with your coffee, sir", walking from the office thinking he cooks, too.

"So how do you like your gift?" Olivia asks with a smile and he gives her a clueless look. "Your assistant, babe. She's quite attractive."

"I hadn't noticed", pinning her against the desk and pressing his lips against hers. Her hand immediately flies to the hairs at the nape of his neck and he caresses her face and deepens the kiss, roaming his tongue in her mouth. Lost in each other they moan in pleasure, not realizing Victoria is watching from the doorway across the room.

She notices how passionate, yet tender he is, taking his time devouring he mouth. He kisses her like a man in love – like he wants her to know how much he loves her.

Victoria eyes the diamond wedding ring on the hand that plays with the hairs at his neck. The ring is absolutely beautiful, not ostentatious, but tasteful, and of the highest quality. He apparently took a lot of time selecting the perfect ring. Expensive but tasteful, that's who Olivia Grant is she concludes.

"Stay with me. We can –"He says breathlessly through the kisses.

Holding the coffee tray in front of her, Victoria finally clears her throat, making her presence known to the couple and they pull away from each other and giggle like two teenagers, something they have been doing all morning. Victoria glances at his mouth as Olivia swipes away her lipstick with her thumb.

"Excuse me, sir. I'll just set your coffee over here", walking over to the other credenza in the office.

"Thank you, Ms. Sanchez", he says with the biggest smile, still holding Olivia around her waist.

"Will there be anything else, sir?" She glances at Olivia running her fingers through his silken hair to straighten his curls.

"Thank you, Ms. Sanchez, that will be all."

"I'll be at my desk if you want anything", walking from the room. Olivia frowns again, thinking the woman has an odd habit of using double-entendres.

"Now, where were we?" He asks, diving in for another kiss, but she scoots away from him, giggling again.

"Babe, if I don't leave now I'm going to be late for my appointment."

"Fine", pecking her on the lips. "But we're going to finish this when I get home tonight."

"Promises. Promises", she smiles playfully as she back pedals from the office.

"What time can we expect you home tonight, Mr. President?"

"I'll call you in a few hours."

"I love you", she calls out as she backs into the reception area.

"I love you more", he calls out before lifting the coffee cup to his lips.

"Have a lovely day, Mrs. Grant."

"And you as well, Victoria."

XXX

Without much more than a grumbled greeting to the young woman sitting behind the desk tapping on the keyboard, Darius and Johnson walk directly into Fitz' office to welcome their new president to work. Victoria scowls at the two councilmen as they enter the office. She hates being ignored and she definitely hates being disrespected, and those men have just done both.

"Fitz", Darius calls out with his boisterous voice as Johnson closes the door behind them.

"Darius - Johnson. It's so good to see you", he says with a genuine smile as he stands from the chair and walks around the desk.

"It's good to see you as well, Fitz." The men hug and pat each other on the back

"Have a seat", Fitz says, gesturing toward the two chairs in front of his desk.

"Man you don't know how good it is to see you", Darius says genuinely.

"You don't know how good it is to be seen, Darius", sitting on the front edge of the desk.

"So are you getting settled in around here? Johnson asks, looking around the spacious office.

"I'm trying - there's a lot to do and learn. Coffee? It's fresh, Ms. Sanchez bought it in earlier." The men shake their heads no, waving their hands dismissively.

"Well it's your first day", Darius says. "You have plenty of time."

"After all you've through nobody's expecting …. I'm sorry, Fitz, I didn't mean to bring it up", Johnson says.

"That's all right, there's no getting around what happened", Fitz says, walking around the desk and sitting in his chair. "My family and I experienced a devastating tragedy - life changing really. We're all very lucky."

"How are Olivia and the children doing?"

"They are all doing fine. I must admit it was tough going for awhile, but we're better now."

"That's good. That's good", Johnson says. "Who would have thought Charlie was a damn lunatic?

"I should have thought it. I should have seen it coming."

"How could you have possibly seen something like this coming? The man went off the deep end just because he lost the election", Johnson says.

"It was more than that", Fitz says glumly.

"So you kicked his ass, is that enough for him to some crazy shit like try to kill you and your family?"

"Reading excerpts from that diary in the newspaper was chilling - numbing really", Darius finally says. "But I think getting access to that diary had to be a blessing for you and Olivia."

"I don't know if it was a blessing or a curse", Fitz says, fiddling with papers on his desk.

"It was a blessing", Darius says adamantly. "It allowed everyone to know what happened and how sick Charlie was. The diary was the great equalizer."

"I'm no psychologist but I can tell you that man had deeper issues than any of us knew about", Johnson says. "Wilson had to know what he was dealing with - that the man was a damn maniac."

"Wilson probably thought he could control Charlie if he became president", Darius says.

"No one can control a person like that", Johnson retorts. "Can you imagine if we had to deal with that madman every day?"

"As a Christian I hate to say this - but thank god he's dead", Darius says, shaking his head.

"Wilson is certainly having his own problems", Fitz says, wanting to steer the conversation in a different direction.

"The man is a thief. Dare I say, just like Marla", Johnson shakes his head, still finding it difficult to believe the woman he thought he knew was involved in a corruption scheme.

"I can't believe Marla is gone", Darius says sadly. "It's a shame she had to go out like that, but maybe it was for the best. She wasn't going to have any real quality of life - and the scandal …."

"You should know, Fitz, a majority of the council members have signed a resolution to impeach Wilson", Johnson says.

"What?"

"The citizens are calling for it. The man has been indicted for Christ sake."

"An indictment isn't a guilty verdict, Johnson"

"That might be true but the people are tired of these scandals. They want to put the whole sordid mess behind them—move on."

"Johnson is right", Darius says. "The citizens have lost all faith in Wilson. Kotch's 15-page indictment laid out all of the charges against him. The Marla scheme, contracts to his buddies, kickbacks - the list goes on and on. If he doesn't step down, signing the resolution calling for his impeachment will be one of your first official acts as Council president."

Fitz leans back in his chair and runs his fingers through his hair thinking this is only his first day.

XXX

"You seem tired, babe. How was your first day?" Olivia asks as she performs her nightly routine of massaging the body butter onto her skin.

"Busy. I met with a lot of people today – Council members, staff, administrators. Everyone was kind but I don't remember half their names."

"It's going to take time. No one expects you to remember everything on your first day."

"I have a lot to learn about legislative procedure. Darius and Johnson stopped by."

"Well that should have made you more comfortable - seeing familiar faces.

"I guess", placing his head on her lap.

"Fitz, I'm trying to get ready for bed", but he ignores her. "Your assistant is attractive", she says, grazing her fingernails across his scalp.

"What?" His eyes are beginning to close as they usually do when she massages his scalp.

"I said your assistant is attractive."

"Who?"

"Don't pretend you don't know who I'm talking about", pulling a hair and causing him to yelp and waken fully.

"Oh – I guess she is all right if you like that look. Besides, I only have eyes for my Boo."

"Please, Fitz, with the –" And he starts tickling her, pinning her onto the bed. "I told you we were going to finish what we started in the office. Did you think I forgot?"

"Promises, promises", she says, laughing as he leans in for a kiss.

He pushes up her silk camisole and she closes her eyes, wrapping her legs around his waist. Capturing a nipple in his mouth, he reaches down to push off his boxers. As he kisses down her stomach she begins to laugh hysterically when she hears Bowtie whimpering outside the door.

"Stop laughing", he says breathlessly, making his way to his destination.

"Babe, your dog needs to go for a walk."

"He can wait", closing in on his target.

"You're going to have a mess to clean up if you don't leave now", she laughs as he rests his head on her stomach. "He's almost potty trained. You don't want him to have a setback."

"Dammit, dammit, dammit", he shouts, banging his fists onto the bed as Bowtie lets out another whimper.

XXX

Bennie walks to the bedroom where he sees clothes scattered all over the bed and settee and Marion running back and forth between the bedroom and walk-in closet in nothing but her bra and panties.

"Which one?" She says with panic in her eyes as she holds up two distinctly different outfits.

"You were dressed an hour ago", he says, glancing around the room that looks like a tornado has struck.

"I changed my mind, now which one", shaking the clothes in his direction.

"The blue one", he says without giving the question much, if any thought, at all.

"No, that won't work. It's too –"

"Marion, come on. We have to go – we should have left 15 minutes ago", he says with exasperation. "What's the big deal about what you wear? We're only going to Fitz and Liv's for dinner." Her neck snaps around and she looks at him as if he has lost his mind.

"Ben, this is the first time we're going to your family's house as a couple. I want to look my best."

"We were just there last month."

"That doesn't matter. No one knew about us then – before we got there - now they do."

"What you just said makes absolutely no sense."

"You don't understand, Ben."

"I understand that we're going to be late. Fitz hates when people are late."

"Go get in the car and I'll be down shortly", she says, trying to get rid of him so she can figure out what to wear.

"No, you're going to pick one of those perfectly acceptable outfits in your hands, you're going to put it on, and we're going to leave in 10 minutes", he says firmly and she glares at him for a few moments.

"Fine, I'll wear this one", holding up the green dress then stomps into the closet.

"Ten minutes", he calls over his shoulder as he walks back to the living room.

When Marion comes from the bedroom 15 minutes later she is wearing a black jumpsuit with a burgundy and gold bolero. Bennie throws his hands up in surrender and grabs his car keys from the coffee table.

"What?" Giving him her best look of innocence as she tucks the long black clutch under her arm.

"Your coat, madam" draping the full-length black wool coat over her shoulders. "You look beautiful", he whispers in her ear and she smiles.

XXX

Trapped between the copper farmhouse sink and her husband Olivia grazes the hairs at the nape of his neck as he devours her mouth. He presses against her and she parts her legs slightly, enjoying the feeling of his zipper until she remembers they have guests coming for dinner tonight.

"Babe, come on", trying to squirm out of his embrace. "Ben and Marion are going to be here soon", she says unconvincingly.

"I don't care, they're late anyway - probably doing the same thing I'm trying to do."

"You're being bad", she mumbles through the kisses as his bulge presses against her crotch. They are in a full-blown make-out session when the doorbell rings.

"Doorbell", she says breathlessly.

"Let them wait", roaming his tongue in her mouth. She finally escapes his grasp and darts over to the refrigerator.

"Whew", fanning her hand in front of her face and opening the refrigerator door to cool down. "You better do something about that", giggling as she points to his growing bulge.

"We'll finish this later", he says, walking from the kitchen to greet their guests.

"I hope so", she calls after him, continuing to fan herself. "I certainly hope so."

Fitz calms himself down and adjusts his pants before opening the door.

"Bennie – Marion", he says, welcoming his guests with a big smile. "Get in here out of the cold", stepping aside and letting the couple in and shutting out the cold Washington State winds.

"It's so good to see you again, Marion", pecking the woman on the cheek.

"And you as well, Fitz", she says with a smile, thinking he and Olivia were just making out.

"So have you taken to wearing lipstick or is just for our entertainment?" Bennie laughs as he helps Marion out of her coat.

"Don't be rude, Ben."

"Don't mind him, Marion", giving his brother the biggest hug. "Come on back, Liv is in the kitchen."

They walk down the long hall to the family room that leads to the kitchen where Olivia is bending in front of the oven removing the hors d'oeuvres from the top convection oven.

"Something smells good", Bennie says as they all enter the kitchen.

"Ben – Marion, so glad you could make it", walking over and hugging Marion and pecking her on the cheek. "It must be cold out", feeling Marion's cold cheeks.

"I'm happy you invited us, Olivia", Marion says, returning the hug and kiss. "Ben is right, something smells delicious."

"It's one of Fitz' favorite recipes", opening her arms to give Bennie a hug and peck on the cheek. He's been preparing all day for this dinner."

"Was that before or after he put on your lipstick?" Bennie jokes and Olivia looks at him curiously. Marion taps her lips and Olivia turns to look at her husband and sees he is wearing the evidence of their make-out session.

"Don't pay him any mind, Olivia", Marion says with smile.

"Chardonnay, Marion", Fitz asks, handing her a glass half-filled with her favorite white wine.

"Thank you, Fitz", thinking this is exactly what she needs.

"It's really gotten cold out", Fitz says, handing Bennie a beer."

"I guess it's about time. It's been warm forever", Bennie says. "When we were kids we would've been skiing by now."

"Do you ski, Marion?" Olivia asks as she accepts the glass of red wine from her husband's hand.

"I do", smiling as Fitz sneaks a kiss from his wife. "I've been skiing since I was five – Bunny slopes of course."

"I told you, Liv, four wasn't too young for Cena to learn."

"I said three was too young to learn."

"Well she loves it now. I can't wait to get Jolie on the slopes", he says, bringing the glass of scotch to his lips.

"Marion, try one these hors d'oeuvres Hildie made", lifting the silver tray with the assortment of appetizers. "She insisted on making something for tonight since Fitz hijacked her kitchen all day."

"Mmm, this is wonderful", Marion says, chewing the puff pastry.

"Try one, Ben", Olivia says, holding the tray in front of him, and he hesitates for a moment before taking one.

"He is so disciplined", Marion says. "He'll be up early in the morning running off that little delight."

"So you're still running, Ben?" Olivia asks, picking up one of the hors d'oeuvres and placing it to her husband's mouth and he opens his mouth without thought.

"I am. Most mornings, depending on my schedule."

"Then you ought to run with Fitz sometime", Olivia says, setting the tray onto the granite island top.

"When did you start running, brother? You used to hate running", taking a sip of his beer. Fitz rolls his eyes because he does not know why everyone keeps saying he hates to run.

"I run with Geoffrey. That was part of the offer package."

"You mean to tell me your partner relocated here just because you agreed to run with him."

"Yup", taking another sip of his drink.

"How are the girls, Olivia?" Marion asks as she picks up another one of the fabulous appetizers, trying a different this time.

"They're wonderful. We got them to bed early tonight. Fitz had read Goodnight Moon three times before Cena fell asleep." Fitz smiles, slides an arm around his wife's waist, and pecks her on the cheek.

"I can't believe you still have that book", Ben says, smiling as he sets the beer bottle onto the island and takes another appetizer from the tray. Olivia and Marion look at each other as Bennie pops the puff pastry into his mouth.

"Ben, that book is being held together by threads. Cena insists we read it every night."

"When I saw it in the bookstore I thought it was a good story."

"And apparently so does Cee", Olivia chuckles. "Babe, I think you better put some tape on that book because JoJo seems to like that story too", and they all laugh out loud. "Well, we better sit down for dinner. I don't want us filling up on appetizers", Olivia says.

XXX

Maura sits on the sofa in their living room slowly swiping her index finger up the tablet screen as she reads an article. Sitting across the room in his leather chair reading the newspaper, Gerry looks over at his wife when he hears the sherry glass connect with the coaster on the table next to where she is sitting. He watches as she slides her finger up the screen and wonders when she became so tech savvy. He wonders if they are really living in two different worlds. He still enjoys the feeling of the newspaper in his hands and she now seems to prefer reading the news on her device.

Maura has been living back home since they took Nora to the facility back east and they still do not share a bed nor do they discuss if she is home for good. He wonders if she will leave when Nora is discharged. Gerry picks up his sweating glass and takes a sip of scotch before setting the newspaper onto his lap. He takes another sip then sets the glass back onto the coaster. Since his wife has been back home she makes him use coasters to hold his drinks. She hates having to polish the water rings from the mahogany wood tables.

"What do you think about Bennie and that Dr. Harris?" Gerry asks his wife gruffly.

"What do you mean?" Maura says, looking up from the tablet.

"She seems – well a little odd - making such ribald statements. That business about Ben and Gerry's muscle rub was distasteful. I'm not sure she's the right woman for Bennie.

"I like Marion. She's a young woman who seems comfortable with expressing herself sexually."

"Humph", he grunts. "Bennie is too easygoing for that kind of woman - she'll steamroll him."

"Bennie seems to be happy and that's all I care about", looking back down at the tablet. "Don't underestimate your son, Gerry, just because he has quiet demeanor." Gerry remains silent for a few minutes before bringing up the topic of one of his other children.

"Maura, do you think it's time to bring our daughter home?" Looking sternly at his wife.

"What?" Maura says, taken aback by the question.

"Nora has been at that place for months now. Don't you think it's time for her to come home?"

"It's not our decision to make, Gerry. Nora's doctors will determine when she is ready to come back home."

"Humph", he grunts again.

"Are you concerned about the money?" She asks in a challenging tone. "Is that why you want Nora to come home?"

"No – not at all. I just thought—forget I said anything", he grumbles, picking up the newspaper and shaking out the wrinkles before resuming to read his article.

Maura looks at him suspiciously for a moment before returning to her article.

XXX

Bowtie has been sleeping comfortably in his doggie bed outside of Cena's bedroom all evening until his full bladder awakens him from his sleep. He looks around the hall, crawls from his bed, and then makes his way downstairs in search of his other master. Fitz and Cena, mostly Fitz, have been training the puppy to let them know when he needs to go out for a walk and Bowtie has been a quick learner so far. He has had only a few accidents since joining the family.

Olivia rolls her eyes when she hears the metal dog tags jingling, signaling the dog is coming downstairs. Bowtie walks to the edge of the family room, daring not to enter as the mistress of the house has made it clear he is not allowed to roam the house when they have guests. So he looks in Fitz' direction and whimpers.

"Is that Bowtie?" Marion asks with a smile and Olivia sighs and rolls her eyes.

"Liv doesn't like Bowtie", Fitz informs Marion.

"Why not, Olivia? He's so adorable", Marion says, taking a sip from the glass as she looks over at the nervous puppy. "Come here, Bowtie", Marion calls to the puppy but he remains at the room's edge.

"Because Mr. Pope never liked dogs, or any pets for that matter", Bennie announces.

"I see. Well I think he is just adorable."

"Here – here, Marion", Fitz says, lifting his glass in her direction.

"Well your adorable dog needs to go for a walk", Olivia says grumpily.

"Duty calls", Fitz says, setting his glass onto the table and walking toward Bowtie. "Excuse me while I take Bowtie out to do his business."

"And put your coat on – it's cold out. I don't want you getting sick because you had to walk the dog." Bowtie quickly scampers behind Fitz who is headed down the hall to retrieve his coat from the closet.

"We'll be back in about 15", he calls to his guests and Jolie begins to cry. "Liv", Fitz yells as he hooks the leash onto Bowtie's collar. "JoJo is awake."

"Okay – okay", she hollers back, standing to go check on the baby.

"Let me get her Olivia – if you don't mind?" Marion says.

"Are you sure?" Olivia asks with furrowed brow.

"If you don't mind."

"Oh – okay. Make a right at the top of the stairs - second door on the right. There's a bottle on the dresser if you need it."

"Got it", Marion says excitedly as she hurries from the room to console an upset Jolie.

"I guess I'll start cleaning up this mess while Fitz is walking the dog", Olivia says, setting her glass of wine onto the table.

"I'll help you", Bennie says, springing to his feet and removing the dessert plates from the coffee table.

Olivia scrapes the remnants of the dessert from the plates into the trash bin and Bennie rinses the dishes and places them into the dishwasher. Now that they are alone she can ask him what she has been wanting to ask for the past month.

"So Ben, I had no idea you and Marion were seeing each other", nudging him playfully in the side with her elbow. "I was surprised to see you both standing on my doorstep at Christmas. I didn't know what to think. I didn't know if you two just happened to arrive at the same time or if you actually came together."

"I really like Marion. I wanted to thank her for what she did for Fitz – for all of us really." Olivia nods.

"And …" She says with a smile.

"And the rest is history as they say."

"I'm happy for you, Ben. Marion is a good person, and she's beautiful."

"Thanks, Liv. That means a lot coming from you."

"I've always wanted the best for you Bester", she nudges him again and they both laugh out loud.

"Oh no, not that name. You remember how I got that name don't you?"

"How can I ever forget? When Sammy Yates got out of the pool …"

"No one dared tell him. It was shocking and funny", Bennie says red-faced.

"He said, 'Benster, why didn't you tell me I lost my trunks, dude', and the two old friends burst out laughing again.

"Is this a private party or can anyone join?" Marion asks, walking into the kitchen carrying a glass of wine. Bennie glances at the wine glass in her hand and the expression on her face.

"Marion", Olivia says through her laughter. "Come in – come in. You gotta hear this story."

"Jolie went back to sleep after a few rocks", Marion says, looking at the two standing at the copper farmhouse sink.

"Ben was just reminding of the time we went to the swim party at Chris Mayer's house and Sammy Yates didn't realize his trunks had come off in the pool and he was walking around showing his business", laughing hysterically.

"That's hilarious", Marion says tightly.

"You had to be there, Marion. The image is burned –"

"In my brain", Bennie finishes Olivia's sentence and Marion rolls her eyes and takes another sip of wine.

"What's so funny?" Fitz asks, walking into the kitchen rubbing his hands together trying to warm them after being out in the cold with Bowtie.

"Babe, we were telling Marion the story about when Sammy Yates' trunks came off in the pool and he walked around for an hour showing everything because no one had the nerve to tell him."

"Sam was always an idiot", Fitz says with disinterest because he has heard that story more times than he cares to remember. "Is Jolie all right?" Walking over and wrapping his arm around his wife's waist.

"Marion got her to go back to sleep. She seems like a natural", smiling sneakily.

"Easy as pie", Marion says. "You two are so blessed to have two beautiful girls." Fitz pecks Olivia on the cheek and smiles.

"Can I get you another beer, Bennie?" Fitz asks, walking over to the refrigerator.

"Nothing for me, brother. I have an early morning."

"Marion, more wine?"

"Of course", extending her glass to Fitz.

"Liv?"

"Yes, please. JoJo no longer wants to nurse so I can finally have a couple of glasses of wine. Let's sit in the family room, I'll finish these dishes later."

Fitz walks over to the bar and Olivia sits on the sofa. Bennie and Marion sit on the large leather ottoman across from the sofa. The fire wood crackles in the fireplace giving the large room with high ceilings a cozy feeling. Fitz hands Marion and Olivia their wine then pours a scotch for himself. He sits onto the sofa next to his wife and intertwines his hand with hers.

"The dinner was lovely, Fitz. I had no idea you were such an accomplished chef", Marion says, bringing the glass to her lips.

"Well, I wouldn't quite call myself a chef."

"Don't be modest, babe. You know your way around the kitchen. Marion, would you believe Fitz did not know how to cook when we started dating. I told him I wouldn't have it – he needed to know how to feed himself. Now look at you", lifting his hand to her lips and he smiles proudly. "But truth be told, I really dislike cooking with him", smiling at him playfully.

"Why is that?" Bennie asks.

"Ben, your brother likes to delegate all the menial tasks to me – like chopping vegetables, peeling potatoes, you name it. When we were at the lake house he had me stirring the risotto, and you know how long that takes."

"No, I don't", Bennie says seriously.

"Come on, Bennie. Tell me you've learned how to cook by now. When I came home and was living with mom and dad - until I found my own place –"

"Until we found your own place", Olivia reminds him.

"Until we found my own place", Fitz corrects. "You would come over after work and eat whatever mom had prepared."

"She always knew I was coming by." Marion observes the exchange between the three.

"So, do you cook now, Ben?" Olivia asks, taking a sip of wine.

"Not at all."

"Bennie, you gotta learn how to cook."

"Why? There are plenty of places to get food. I use UberEats a lot."

"I thought Uber was a ride share service", Fitz says innocently.

"Babe, some restaurants use Uber drivers to make home deliveries to their customers. They don't have to absorb the cost of hiring drivers." Fitz nods, learning something new tonight.

"Marion, do you enjoy cooking?" Olivia asks.

"I don't cook either", and they all burst out laughing. "And I don't have any desire to learn."

"Well okay", Olivia says, sipping her wine.

Fitz gently squeezes Olivia's hand and she sets her glass onto the coffee table, slides her hand between the sofa cushion and armrest, and pulls out an antique white envelope.

"Marion", Olivia says, as she slowly pulls open the flap, and slides out the matching paper. "Fitz and I invited you here tonight to thank you for everything you have done for us - for our family."

"Olivia, I told you –"

"I know – I know, but please, let us do this", Olivia says, unfolding the stationary and beginning to read the handwritten letter.

"How does one thank another for saving a life and, by extension, giving me life? Marion, I have struggled to find the right words to express my gratitude for you saving my husband's life. But really, there aren't enough words to express how I feel for what you did on that horrible day. Ever since I awoke in that small, wonderful hospital and learned what happened, that question has been on my mind, second only to wondering how my family was going to get through the life-changing event."

Fitz rubs her thigh and lets his hand rest there and Marion notices their intimacy and mutual support.

"Other than inviting you to our home for one of Fitz' wonderful meals, I did not know how to properly thank the woman who saved the life of the most important person in the world to me, And I have concluded that there is nothing I can say or do to truly express my gratitude except to quietly thank you every single day when I see my husband. A day does not go by when I don't thank God for putting you in our lives at just the right moment. Had it not been for you, the outcome of that day would have been very different. Had you not acted so courageously and quickly I would no longer have the love of my life and my children would not have a father."

Olivia brushes the tears from her cheek with the side of her hand and continues to read the letter.

"So thank you, Marion. Thank you for being there. Thank you for giving my husband back to me. And, thank you for taking care of our daughters when we could not. God bless you and I wish you well. I know all good things will come your way."

Marion dabs her finger under her eyes as Olivia walks over and presents Marion with the letter and gives her a warm hug. Bennie reaches inside his jacket pocket and gives Marion his handkerchief. When Olivia sits back on the sofa, she reaches onto the floor and lifts a beautifully decorated box from the side of the sofa.

"Marion, this is just a small token of our appreciation."

"Olivia, this is all so unnecessary", Marion says, moved by the beautiful words Olivia just read.

"Open it, Marion." Marion sets her wine glass onto the coffee table and carefully unwraps the gift."

"You don't open gifts like Cena", Fitz says, and everyone laughs, which helps to lighten the mood. Marion lifts the lid and slowly pulls back the white tissue paper. Her eyes widen and she brings a hand to her lips.

"Olivia", she says in awe. "It's absolutely beautiful."

"We heard that you wrapped our baby in your beautiful Hermes scarf, which was soiled beyond repair by the time Jolie got to the hospital."

"Olivia …"

"I couldn't find another one like the one you wrapped our baby in but we hope you will enjoy this one just as much."

"Thank you. This is so very kind – so generous of you", continuing to dab at her eyes and Bennie rubs her back soothingly.

XXX

Fitz pulls an envelope from his pocket, slides out the stationary, and begins to read his handwritten thank-you letter. Marion grabs Bennie's hand and bites down on her bottom lip. She has never felt this kind of appreciation in her life.

"It is completely and utterly obvious that thanking someone for saving one's life is impossible because the magnitude of a thank-you can and willneverequal the magnitude of having one's life saved."

"In the aftermath of every major rescue event, what comes to light are the heroes, the Good Samaritans. While we know definitively from news reports that lives are saved in those big events, it is important to remember that lives are saved daily in small events about which few may hear. But, a hero is a hero nonetheless. And Marion you are a hero – you are my hero - our hero."

Marion squeezes Bennie's hand tighter.

"And, no matter the size of a rescue, almost dying requires a recovery period. Depending on the trauma, some recoveries will be slow, both physically and emotionally. And for our family it has been slow – slower than I would like."

Olivia lie her head on her husband's shoulder.

"And as we continue to recover as a family, I have realized that it is possible the enormity of what happened is mostly understood only by two people: me and my hero." He smiles at Marion misty-eyed.

"After all, had it not been for you, Marion, I would not be here with my wife, whom I love with all of my heart. Had it not been for you, Marion, I would not be here with my precious daughters, whom I love equally as much. And, I would not be here to ask the question that may all too often get lost in the shock, recovery period, and celebration: How does one thank the person who saved their life? My conclusion... there really just is no way to do so.

"Marion, my family means everything to me. The thought of losing them – of never seeing them again - is too much for me to bear. So I want to thank you for allowing me a little more time with my family. And, I want to thank you for taking care of our children when we were unable to do so.

The tears are streaming non-stop down Marion's face.

"So please, honor us by accepting this small token of our gratitude."Fitz reaches behind the sofa cushion and slides out a long, elegantly wrapped box.

"Fitz …" Marion says, Bennie's handkerchief unable to keep pace with the flow of tears.

"Please, Marion. Open it."

Olivia slides her hand into her husband's hand and watches as Marion once again slowly unwraps the gift. Her eyes widen and jaw drops when she opens the long box.

"Oh my …" And Bennie stretches his neck to see what's inside the box.

"Wow", he says.

"Fitz, I can't—"

"You can and you will. We won't hear otherwise."

"Thank you both. I just don't know what else to say. This is all so unexpected."

"You don't need to say anything more." Fitz stands and hugs one of his heroes and pecks her on the cheek.

"I'm sure my makeup is ruined", Marion says tearfully.

"You look beautiful as usual", Olivia says as Marion continues to dab the corners of her eyes.

"Bennie –"

"Don't give me a diamond tennis bracelet", Bennie says jokingly.

"I won't, but I will give you a thank-you from the deepest place in my heart. You took care of my family when I could not, and I will forever be grateful.

"You took care of our entire families, providing the support and medical knowledge they needed during a very hectic and what appeared to be dire circumstances. You served as a liaison between our families and the medical staff – at two hospitals nonetheless. No one else could have done that.

"You traveled with me and my daughter in that helicopter and made sure we were delivered to the appropriate hands and that we received the best care possible."

"You're my brother, Fitz. Liv, Cee, and JoJo, they're my family too. Family takes care of family."

"I know, but what you did for Liv and me - well there just aren't any words", shaking his head slowly from side to side. "You have always been special to me Bennie and you know that", and tears well in Bennie's eyes. "Isn't ironic that you saved my life all those years ago and now Marion has done so as well. I have two heroes. I am a lucky man."

Misty-eyed, the two brothers hug, silently putting the past behind them. Marion looks at the brothers wondering what Fitz means when he says Ben saved his life. Then she looks over at Olivia who is wiping the tears from her eyes.

"I have something for you too – for us actually", Fitz says, pulling two tickets from his pocket and waving them under Bennie's nose.

"Wrestling. Yes!" Bennie shouts with a fist pump.