A/N: I don't own anything related to the TV show Scandal. Cleo: What we know so far is Victoria wants Fitz because she wants to improve her station in life. He has political power and is wealthy. Those are two things she can work with. Can she really have any man she wants? A woman like Victoria does not care if she destroys families, she wants what she wants. That messy desk is a signal of how much stress Fitz is under. Wonder why his AA doesn't help him to organize it? She does so many other things for him. Clanay: Marion is not African-American, she is a green-eyed brunette. s kidd: you better not let Ms Sanchez hear you call her Vickie. Haha. Is Victoria really a mover and shaker? Think about what Darrin said. Guest1. Marion sure does drink a lot. Monica: Marion doesn't have an interest in doing domestic tasks because she never had to. Hint. You're right, as an ex-Navy man, "order" is Fitz's middle name, something is definitely off. Liv noticed the messy desk. Also, Hildie is just 'the help', she was hired through an agency when they returned from Mirage. Marcella will be making an appearance in a few chapters. Jmodavis, Fitz is hardly naïve, he's just really, really busy. Remember, he should have taken office back in November, but Charlie … So he is three months behind schedule and he has to learn a lot to deliver his legislative agenda to the Council by the end of March. Also, he has no reason to think his AA is plotting anything nefarious. Fitz and Olivia don't have the insight that you have. Victoria needs to pack her office supplies and exit stage left. Too funny. Guest2: Olivia isn't naïve and she isn't overlooking anything. Remember, she trusts her husband although her antennae go up whenever she is around Victoria, which isn't often. Olivia has a life. Your little heart can handle whatever is coming. We'll learn more about Bennie in upcoming chapters. Nora is back because a few chapters back Gerry told Maura he thought it was time for their daughter to come home. I guess they have things to work out. Symone0939, in future chapters we will learn more about why Bennie wants to learn how to cook. kandyse4olitz, old hoe Victoria? You all crack me up. Nora is just embarrassed. I really enjoyed my vacation, but right now it seems like a lifetime ago. Vacations are a good thing.
Thanks to all for continuing to follow and review, and welcome to all of the newcomers. I am truly grateful. Here we go!
Chapter 40. Man of the People
Breaking News: The trial in the corruption case of Mayor Theodore Wilson has been set for July 12. A federal grand jury indicted Mayor Wilson last November on 19 counts of corruption charges. Calls for Wilson to step down go unheeded. The mayor says he has no plans to step down.
XXX
A scowl spread across Calvin's face as he reads the second installment of the local newspaper's three-part series on gentrification in the city. This movement of the middle- and upper- middle class and mostly white to the inner city is sparked by empty-nesters downsizing from their suburban homes and wanting to take advantage of the revitalization underway in the city. They want to be close to the museums, attend plays, and dine at the fine restaurants that have opened along the waterfront. They want to live within walking distance of where they now choose to play. College graduates deciding to remain in the city or relocate to the city are also contributing to the change, and everyone is not happy.
"What's the matter, Calvin?" Gwendolyn asks, looking down at her tablet admiring the pictures Nalawa sent her of the students at the new school in Senegal. She feels somewhat sad they were not able to see the school through completion.
"City officials and real estate developers are colluding to force poor families out of the most desirable areas of the city to make way for their more affluent counterparts. It's disgraceful", he says, tossing the newspaper onto the granite island top in disgust as he reaches for his cup of coffee.
"It's happening in major cities all across the country, dear. It's not such a bad thing", Gwendolyn says.
"Gwennie, unscrupulous real estate developers and greedy politicians are in cahoots to run what they consider the undesirables from the city – to the outskirts of the city."
"Well, I think all of the new development is a good thing. You know parts of the city have been blighted for years, business have left, and –" Calvin sucks his teeth again to express his disagreement.
"At what cost, Gwennie – at what cost?" Shaking his tightly balled fists.
"Calvin, doing nothing was not an option. The city is coming alive again – the waterfront is absolutely beautiful. A lot of jobs are being created for the people who live in the city."
"Service jobs, Gwennie", Calvin snarls. "The increased cost of housing and rising real estate taxes is making it next to impossible for people to live in the city in which they work. They have to get out of town by sun down."
"There's no need for hyperbole, Calvin", the brass charms on her bracelet jingle as she raises the cup to her lips. "I wouldn't mind living in the city if we weren't going back to Senegal."
"What? You're kidding me. Please tell me you're joking", Calvin says, looking at his wife in disbelief. "You mean you want to be part of the elite who displaces those poor families?"
Fitz lips curl into a smile as the sweet smell of cinnamon and sugar fill his nostrils as he walks into the kitchen. Hildie is baking his favorite cinnamon rolls this morning. This is going to be a good day he thinks.
"Who's displacing who?" He asks, draping his suit jacket on the back of his chair
"Good morning, Fitzgerald."
"Good morning, Gwendolyn", pecking his mother-in-law on the cheek. "Good morning, Calvin."
"Good morning, Fitzgerald", Calvin says grumpily. "My wife wants to be one of those gentrified suburbanites who move into the city and displace those who have lived there their entire lives. It's shameful."
"Why is it shameful?" Fitz asks, filling his cup with regular coffee.
"Because when the affluent move in the poor have to move out."
"That's not quite true, Calvin. The city is working hard to keep people in their homes – providing tax credits for homeowners and requiring developers, in some instances, to create blended communities where people from all socio-economic classes can live together."
Calvin sucks his teeth again, not buying what his son-in-law the politician is selling.
"There are positives to gentrification", Fitz continues. "When middle- and upper-middle income families move into the city property values increase."
"There are better ways to increase value other than pushing out the people who live in gentrifying neighborhoods like Springfield Heights and Tilghman. Those slumlords can increase the value of a properties by actually taking good care of them in the first place - looking after tenants in buildings they own, conducting thoughtful repairs, making buildings more sustainable."
Forking his fingers through his hair, Fitz sighs silently, wondering where the heck Hildie is. He is ready for those cinnamon rolls and does not want to debate the hot-button issue with his father-in-law before he has had his first cup of coffee of the day.
"Where's Hildie?" Taking his seat at the island.
"She volunteered to dress Jolie this morning", Gwendolyn announces.
"I see. I wonder how much longer before the rolls will be done?" Fitz asks, lifting the mug to his lips.
"I'll check", Gwendolyn says, standing from her seat.
"No – no", Fitz and Calvin screech in unison, wanting to stop Gwendolyn from getting anywhere near Hildie's magnificent pastry. Gwendolyn sneers at her son-in-law and husband as she slowly lowers her bottom back onto the seat.
"I mean – I'm sure Hildie will be down shortly", Fitz says, trying to make amends as Calvin studies the inside of his coffee mug.
XXX
With spine perfectly aligned, Victoria sits erect in the ergonomically designed web chair specially ordered for her, lightly tapping her well-manicured fingernails on the keyboard, finalizing the last document for the Council President's signature. Her red lips stretch ever so slightly as she thinks about how her scheme to gain his trust is unfolding, albeit at a glacially slow pace. Unfazed by the slow pace at which she has to move to gain his confidence, each day, over the past two months, Victoria arrives at City Hall energetic and eager to perform her administrative duties and doing everything she can to help him to achieve his goals.
From the beginning Victoria knew it would take time to secure his trust, after all she was a stranger to him and he did not select her to be his assistant. She was given to him, as a welcome aboard gift of sorts. And she knew, after reading about his ordeal with Charlie Barber, he would be slow to trust anyone who is no part of his inner circle. So she manages the process carefully, slowly making deposits into the trust bank account and ever so cautious never to make unnecessary withdrawals. A man of his ilk will not be easily manipulated into trusting her. He has negotiated some of the most complicated and successful mergers for multinational corporations and can spot deception a mile away. So she coaches herself daily to be patient, to not overplay her hand. Moving too quickly will be an irreversible mistake. Too much is at stake this time and she will not blow the opportunity of a lifetime just because she could not control the zeal to achieve her goals.
Everything she read online about the brilliant and successful businessman while he was recuperating indicated he demands and respects competence and dedication from those who work for and with him. She supposes his Navy experience has influenced him in that way. To demonstrate her competence and dedication, she devised a strategy that included arriving to City Hall long before the Council President, and not leaving until he has left for the day. And, after his first week on the job, she made the executive decision to take control of his calendar, stopping the onslaught of unscheduled visitors who were making their way to his office trying to garner support for one of their pet projects. Controlling the flow of people coming to his office enabled him to recoup a large portion of his day, which he appreciated greatly. A significant deposit in the trust account. She gave him back the time he needed to focus on learning his new job. In short order she became his pit bull, his dragon slayer, enjoying the power that comes with deciding who gets to see him and who does not. Anyone who wants to meet with him must come through her, except Olivia and Darius, of course. For now, his door is always open to them. And in time, she learned how to read his moods and body language, allowing her to determine whatever she thought he needed.
She always asks what he needs, how she can help him to fulfill his plans and make his day run smoothly. No task is too large or too small for her to perform for him. After the mishap with the Valentine's Day reservation, she volunteered to run his personal errands, make reservations of all sorts, and even pick up his dry cleaning, if necessary. He saw it as a kind gesture but she knew it was another way to learn more about him and to gain his trust. However, she did not push, she knows not to push. She is experienced enough to know men like him do not like being told what to do, they want to be empowered with choices. So, she left it up to him to decide whether he would or would not accept her help with personal matters.
A week has passed since Victoria demanded Darrin dig up as much dirt as he could on the people whose support the Council President will need to move forward his policies. She wants to make sure he is prepared when he meets with the blood-thirsty sharks. She does not want him to be caught flat-footed because those sharks will eat him alive. Once they realize they have something he wants they will circle and attack, eventually going in for the kill. They never do anything out of the kindness of their hearts, they always want to know how they are going to benefit from supporting someone else's agenda. Therefore, they have to be encouraged and cajoled into lending their support to a worthy cause. And, if those tactics fail, they have to be blackmailed with the threat of having the salacious details of their professional and personal indiscretions exposed.
Not wanting to play her cards too soon, Victoria held onto the research, waiting for the right time to offer it to him. Today she is going to step out on a limb, gently push him - empower him to make a different kind of choice. She will offer him another option for how to deal with the sharks. While waiting for the last document to print, she glances at the clock in the bottom-right side of the monitor, then stands from her seat. It is time. She knows he is reading another report right now because that is how he usually spends his afternoons – reading. She brushes her hands down the front of her dress, grabs the document from the printer, and slides it into the folder on the desk. She pats the deep patch pocket on the front of the dress, a tacit reminder of her true purpose for interrupting his afternoon. She knocks on the door and when he does not answer, she enters the office, smiling when she sees him reclining in the chair with his long legs stretched across the desk. He is wearing a pair of brightly colored socks that are so unlike him. He is so absorbed in whatever he is reading he did not hear her knock.
"Excuse me, sir", she says hesitantly, standing in the middle of the room holding the folder tightly in her hand. "I am so sorry to interrupt, but I need to get your signature on these documents if you're going to get them on the docket for the next Council session", walking over to the desk and setting the folder in front of him.
Startled by the sound of her voice, Fitz looks up with brow furrowed. He is acutely disturbed by what he has been reading in the latest report on school performance.
"Of course", his face relaxing somewhat. "I don't know what I would do without you, Victoria", quickly scratching his signature at the bottom of the four documents. "I'm sure Councilman Johnston would be more than a little ticked off with me if his propositions were not put up for a vote at next week's meeting. Thank you", giving her a closed-mouth smile as he hands the folder back to his assistant. He leans back in his seat and resumes reading the disturbing report.
"Sir, one more thing", she says hesitantly, not bothering to move away from the desk.
"Did I miss one?" Glancing at the folder Victoria is clutching in her hands.
"No – no - you didn't. Sir, I hope you don't think I'm overstepping - if you think I am – just …" She pretends to stutter.
"What is it, Victoria?"
She takes a quick step toward the desk, slides her hand into the patch pocket, and slowly pulls out a small device and offers it to him. Fitz looks questioningly at her outstretched hand.
"What is that?"
"A flash drive - additional information for your upcoming meetings, sir."
Unsure what she is offering him, Fitz looks back and forth between her face and the small device.
"It's all a part of the public record – all perfectly legal", she adds quickly. "All publicly available information – just packaged for your consumption."
Fitz cocks his head slightly to the side and examines her closely.
"I just want you to be prepared to highlight certain individuals' soft spots - if necessary. You always want to have the upper hand when meeting with certain individuals."
Finally realizing what she is offering him, his eyes widen as he stares into her eyes. Seeing his reluctance to accept the gift, she stammers in earnest. She is not sure if she has made a mistake offering him the information. She is not sure if she has overplayed her hand.
"You can call it an insurance policy. You only use it when - if circumstances warrant."
Slowly nodding his head in understanding, he walks around the desk, takes the device from her hand, and stuffs it into his jacket pocket.
"I think we should get back to work, Victoria", walking back around the desk and taking his seat.
"Of course", nodding her head in relief as she turns to leave the office. "By the way, nice socks", she calls over her shoulder with a smile.
As Victoria settles back into her seat at the workstation, a sense of accomplishment spread over her face. She just showed him how dedicated she is to him and he did not reject her efforts. She closes her eyes, takes a deep breath, and thinks about that day last October when she was once again summoned to the Director of Human Resources office. Little did she know that meeting with Helen Elverson would be one of the best days of her life.
Flashback
As Victoria Sanchez walks down the familiar hall to the office of Helen Elverson, the director of Human Resources, she hopes the woman is not going to terminate her this . Elverson has warned Victoria over the years about her co-worker complaints about her attitude and unwillingness to do the parts of the job she does not like. With each step she wonders which of those mousey-looking women in the office is now complaining about her. Or maybe it is one of those silly men who is always trying to take her on a date to one of the two-star restaurant chains. She inhales deeply, lifts her head high, then knocks on the door.
"Good morning Mrs. Elverson. It is so good to see you again", putting on her best fake smile
"It's good to see you as well, Victoria. You're looking lovely as usual. Have a seat, please", Helen Elverson smiles politely, sweeping her hand toward one of the metal chairs in front of her desk. Victoria sits onto the metal chair and crosses her long legs and the director leans back in her chair eyeing Victoria closely.
"Thank you", smiling somewhat nervously. "Is there something wrong, Mrs. Elverson?"
"No – not at all, Victoria."
Victoria sighs silently, although she hates her job, she cannot afford to get fired. She is barely making ends meet as it is on her meager salary.
"As you know, Victoria, we have a new Council President who will be starting soon - after he and his family recover from that terrible ordeal", Mrs. Elverson says, shaking her head from side to side. Victoria nods because she, like everyone else in the city, followed the incredible news story of how Charlie Barber tried to kill the newly elected President of the City Council and his family.
"I just don't understand why someone would want to plot to harm to another human being. It sounds like Charlie Barber was a really sick man", thinking it is the appropriate thing to say.
"Apparently so. In any case, we around here must get ready for when Council President Grant is ready to assume his elected position. We want to make sure he has everything he needs on day one", Mrs. Elverson says, studying the attractive woman closely.
"Of course – of course."
"I'm sure you're aware that Mrs. Shipman, the administrative assistant to the late Council President Briggs, has decided to retire – with the scandal and all ..."
"There has been talk about Mrs. Shipman retiring", Victoria says, wondering why the woman is telling her all of this.
"Victoria, you have worked for the city ever since you graduated from high school, and for whatever reason, your career has not gone very far. But, I have an opportunity for you - one that will help your career – give it a boost. I have a position that will put you on the path to retire from the city with a generous pension."
Victoria smiles politely but wants to laugh in the silly woman's face because unlike Helen Elverson, she did not come to City Hall to establish a career or work until she is old and ready to retire. She could care less about a pension. She came to City Hall to find a successful politician who would take care of her in the manner in which she deserves. She will not settle for less.
"That sounds so mysterious, Mrs. Elverson", playing the demure assistant."
"I won't keep you in suspense any longer, Victoria", Mrs. Elverson says, smiling at the young woman. "I have arranged for you to become Council President Grant's administrative assistant when he takes office. Would you like that, dear?"
"Of course, Mrs. Elverson", Victoria says without hesitation. "I would love the opportunity to support the new Council President."
"That's good, Victoria. Let's consider your new assignment a welcome aboard gift for the Council President", Mrs. Elverson says, leaning back in her chair and smiling with satisfaction at Victoria's eager face.
Providence, pure providence, Victoria screams to herself, as she hurries down the hall to remove her few belongings from the small desk in the overcrowded office where she has worked since her last scheme fell apart. And, with each passing day their city – her life - was beginning to feel smaller and smaller, and there were with fewer opportunities remaining to help her to achieve her goals. So, for the past few months she has been considering moving to another city, finding her way in another place where no one knows her, a place where should could start over. But now she has a new lease on life. She can start afresh and finally get everything she has always wanted, everything she deserves.
End Flashback
While waiting in Restaurant 52 for Olivia to arrive for their lunch date, Marion brings the glass of wine to her lips, ruminating about Ben and Olivia's friendship. She knows her jealousy is irrational but she cannot seem stop herself, cannot rein in that green-eyed monster. While she knows how madly in love Olivia is with Fitz, she is not sure if Ben still has feelings for Olivia – if his old feelings are truly dead. Although Ben has told her he no longer has those kinds of feelings for Olivia, Marion cannot help thinking that the man she is falling for might be in love with another woman. She shakes her head in despair, now questioning the wisdom of tricking Ben into admitting his past feelings for Olivia. Perhaps her world would be a whole lot easier if she had only let it go. But she could not let it go, she could not ignore what she feels whenever she sees Ben in a room with Olivia reminiscing about the past and telling inside jokes. She does not know how Fitz tolerates it.
Marion sighs and takes another sip of wine thinking, except for that brief break, Ben and Olivia have been friends forever. Although she has never had a best friend, she knows a best friend is someone with whom you share everything. A best friend is the person who knows you best. She hates that Olivia probably knows more about Ben than she does or maybe ever will. Although she pretends to be okay with the relationship, their closeness is a perpetual thorn in her side, but she shields her jealousy because she does not want to risk losing him. She has toyed with the idea of asking him to end his friendship with Olivia, but deep down she knows who will lose if she asked him to choose. It is all so sad because she really likes Olivia, a lot. If Ben had not told her about his past feelings for Olivia, Marion is sure they could also be best friends. After all, Olivia is really a terrific person. In fact, she is the most genuine person she has ever met. She is loyal to the people she loves and would never intentionally hurt a fly. She is self-confident and knows what she wants out of life. It is unfortunate she cannot shake the nagging thought that, if given the opportunity, Ben would drop her in a minute and run into Olivia's arms. Marion raises the glass to her lips again, wishing she had the self-confidence to not worry about such things, but nothing she does seems to work. Old fears of rejection and abandonment still maintain a tight grip on her.
"I am so sorry, Marion for making you wait", Olivia says half out of breath as she rushes to their table.
"Sit down, Olivia", Marion says, waving her hand dismissively. "I haven't been here very long. You look terrific by the way."
"Thank you, Marion. You look terrific as usual."
"How are the girls, Olivia?"
"Wonderful. Cena is doing well – dancing up a storm and Jolie is trying to keep up even though she can't walk yet. You have to come to Jolie's first birthday party in May – expect an invitation."
"Of course I'll be there. You really do look terrific, Olivia – glowing actually. Are you?"
"No – not at all", she says sadly, and Marion, who is keenly perceptive, quickly notices the change in Olivia's demeanor.
"Is something wrong, Olivia?" Marion asks with genuine concern.
Olivia hesitates a moment, nervously massaging her right temple with two fingers, not sure if she should share such a personal and sensitive matter with Marion. She closes her eyes trying to keep the tears at bay.
"Marion –"
"May I get you something to drink, ma'am?" The waitress asks with ink pen poised and ready to take Olivia's drink order. Olivia looks at Marion's almost empty wine glass and decides to order a glass of red wine.
"A glass of your house Shiraz, please."
"Shiraz it is", the waitress repeats as she scribbles the order onto the pad. "I'll be right back with your wine, ma'am."
"And I'll have a refill of this", Marion says, holding up her glass in the direction of the waitress.
"Right away, ma'am."
"So what's the matter, Olivia?"
"Marion, I don't talk about this to anyone – except Fitz, of course", fidgeting with the white linen napkin. Marion nods, realizing whatever is troubling Olivia is quite serious, so she waits for her to continue.
"Marion, I want to have another baby - so much – but …" Now fidgeting with the silverware.
"But what, Olivia?"
"Fitz really doesn't want me to get pregnant again."
"That's odd", Marion says somewhat confused. "Fitz strikes me as the kind of man who would want a house full of children running around. I see how he is with Cena and Jolie."
"He does – he did. It's just … when …. Marion, when I was pregnant with Cena and Jolie I became depressed – really depressed", looking at Marion intently to ensure she understands the seriousness of her depression. "It's called antenatal depression. Without going into all the gory details, let's just say I was not at my best for a while."
"Oh, Olivia, I am so sorry. I had no idea", Marion says, sliding her hand across the warm burled wood table and resting it on top of Olivia's.
"Fitz doesn't want me – us – to go through that again."
"That man loves you, Olivia."
"And I love my husband, Marion – with all my heart. But, I want to expand our family. The girls are getting so big."
"Olivia, Cena just turned six a few months ago and Jolie isn't even one yet."
"I know", Olivia smiles sheepishly. "I just love children, Marion, and Fitz has always wanted five."
"Your drinks, ladies", the waitress interrupts, setting the glass of Chardonnay in front of Marion and removing the empty glass. She then sets the glass of Shiraz in front of Olivia.
"Thank you", Olivia says softly, reaching for the glass.
"Are you ladies ready to order?" The waitress glances between the two women.
"I'll have the salmon salad", Marions says quickly.
"And I'll have the same", Olivia says.
"Two salmon salads coming up", the waitress says as she turns and walks away.
"Fitz obviously is not willing to risk your health to satisfy a desire of his."
"I know", Olivia says sadly as she stares into the pool of red liquid.
"Have you two consulted a specialist?"
"Fitz said we could discuss it after things calm down at Council – after he submits his policy plans."
Marion nods, thinking about the threatening comment Wilson made about Fitz. She does not think this is a good time to share the man's remarks with Olivia.
"Things are quite hectic at City Hall these days, Olivia. The budget is due at the end of the month."
"I know", raising the glass to her lips. "I'm sorry to lay my problems on you, Marion. I did not invite you to lunch to watch me cry in my wine."
"That's what friends are for. Now tell me, what has you looking so terrific because you really do look wonderful." Quickly changing the subject, which causes a big smile to spread across Olivia's face.
"I have a job, Marion", she says excitedly.
"A job?"
"Yes – a job. I cannot believe it. I have not worked for anyone else since my first job out of college."
"Where - doing what?"
"Bryson Foods", she squeals, unable to contain her excitement.
"Bryson Foods?" The name triggering the commitment she made to Ben to prepare a home-cooked meal. She dreads having to go food shopping.
"Yes", Olivia says, stomping her feet on the floor. "Fred Bryson offered me a job with his company. He wants me to design and launch a philanthropy program. Can you believe that? He's very committed to the city."
"Wow, that sounds quite interesting, Olivia. Congratulations."
"Your salmon salads, ladies", the waitress says, setting the oversized plates in front of the two women.
"And could you bring us another round of drinks?" Marions asks. "We're celebrating today."
"Right away, ma'am."
"Marion, I haven't had two glasses of wine at lunch in forever."
"Well, you're no longer nursing Jolie and we're celebrating", raising her glass and clinking it against Olivia's.
"What about your foundation? Are you closing it?"
"I will never close the foundation, Marion. Mona is going to run the foundation from now on. She's been running things for awhile anyway."
"I'm really happy for you, Olivia", Marion says, sliding the fork into her mouth.
"Marion, this opportunity with Bryson Foods will enable me to move more quickly with the Wraparound Program. Fred -
"Fred?" Marion says playfully with an arched brow and Olivia chuckles.
"You sound like my husband", setting the fork onto the side of the plate and picking up her wine glass. "Fred insists I call him by his first name."
"I see."
"Well, the financial support Fred is offering will allow us to launch the program much sooner than I thought we could. The program supports the goals he wants to accomplish. Are you still in?"
"I'm in", Marion says, and the two women clink their glasses again.
"So how are things going with you and Ben? I think you're so good together", Olivia says as she stabs at her salmon.
"Things are going well – we're good", silently admonishing herself for resenting Olivia. The woman has certainly had enough hardships to last a life time.
XXX
Fitz sits on Cena's bed with his back against the headboard and Cena snuggles into his side as he reads Goodnight Moon. Five minutes into the third reading of the nightly bedtime story, he looks down at Cena, whose eyes are drifting close. He looks to the right and smiles as Jolie sleeps in her usual position, arms spread above her head and legs open wide. He looks at Bowtie, who is lying at the foot of the bed with eyes also half closed. Seeing everyone is asleep or nearly asleep, he skips over a page and continues to read.
"Daddy, you missed a page", Cena says sleepily, snuggling closer into her father's side.
"Oh – I'm sorry sweetheart", dutifully turning back to the page he intentionally skipped.
After a few more minutes, he finishes reading the remaining 12 pages of the story and smiles as he watches his two girls sleep peacefully. He pulls the covers over Cena's small shoulders and kisses her on the cheek. Then, he lifts a sleeping Jolie from the bed and Bowtie lifts his head and watches Fitz as he returns the well-worn book to the bookshelf across the room. He turns out the lamp on the nightstand and quietly walks from the room and down the hall to the nursery. Bowtie takes his position in his doggie bed outside of Cena's bedroom. As Jolie's drool rolls down the side of his neck, Fitz closes his eyes and says a silent prayer as he remembers the night they almost lost their baby.
He flicks on the night light and carefully places Jolie into the crib. He stands at the side of the crib for a few minutes smiling as he watches her rolls into her standard sleeping position. Even though they no longer allow blankets and toys in the crib, he inspects the bed for anything that might cause her harm, as he does every night. He kisses his baby daughter on the forehead, turns out the light, and walks down the hall toward their bedroom, patting Cena's sentry on the head along the way.
XXX
"Lights out for three again", glancing at his wife who is walking from the closet with an armful of his suits and shirts.
"How long did JoJo last tonight?" Dropping his clothes destined for the dry cleaners tomorrow onto the chair.
"One reading for Jo, two-and-a-half for Cee, and three for Bowtie", tugging at the bedcovers on his side of the bed. He frowns because for some reason Hildie has begun to tightly tuck the bedcovers again.
"Miss Jo is trying so hard to be a big girl. She wants to do everything Cee does", digging into the pockets of his pants and jackets because he always leaves an ink pen or scraps of paper in the pockets. "When do you think Cee going to tire of that story – she's six after all?"
"I'll read it to her as long as she wants", Picking up the phone from the nightstand to check his schedule for tomorrow.
"I'm taking a few of your suits and shirts to the cleaners tomorrow. Do you have anything else you want me to drop off?"
"No, that should be good", not bothering to look up from the phone.
"What's this?" Holding up the flash drive she found in a jacket pocket.
"A flash drive", he says nonchalantly.
"I know it's a flash drive. But why is it in your pocket? Do you need it?"
"I guess I forgot about it – stuck it in there earlier - after Victoria gave it to me." Olivia rolls her eyes.
"What's on it?" Looking at him from across the room as he types on his phone.
"Research."
"Research – what kind of research?" Olivia asks, holding the small device in the air.
"I haven't looked at it – but she says it's oppo research."
"What?" She shrieks, not believing her ears.
"What's the matter?" Looking over at her in surprise.
"What's the matter? What do you mean what's the matter? Your assistant is giving you negative information about your colleagues and you ask me what's wrong. Why would she do something so stupid?"
"I guess she was trying to be helpful", looking back down at his phone.
"Is she now what - a political strategist?"
"Liv –"
"Don't Liv me. You have moral standards for what you will and will not do. You don't win at all cost. You don't intentionally hurt others. That's not who you are – who we are. We experienced that personally during the campaign", looking at him intently.
"I didn't even open it, Liv", he says tiredly. "Besides, I don't need my assistant to get me information on anyone. I have ways of getting whatever information I need." She squints at him disapprovingly as she thinks about him investigating Fred Bryson.
"The people voted for you because they were tired of the back room deals – the mudslinging. They wanted someone who is clean – someone who is going to look out for their interests – not someone who is going to play games and use trickery. Man of the people, remember?"
"Liv –"
"You won by an overwhelming majority – the people have placed their trust in you – you can't take that for granted, Fitz. You ran a clean campaign and you have to legislate the same way.
"It's no big deal."
"No big deal? How can you say this is no big deal? Why would she think you would ever entertain using that kind of information?"
"Calm down, Liv."
"Tell your assistant she needs to stay in her lane. We don't need her kind of help."
"Yes, ma'am", he says, saluting and giving her that silly smirk she loves so much.
XXX
All of the reports Darrin has provided him so far about the performance of the schools and School Board's spending practices seem to confirm what Henrietta told him. Even with the increased funding the superintendent said he needed for the past four years, the schools are still plagued with chronic low test scores and high drop-out rates. The state is threatening to take over the School District unless performance improves. In addition to low test scores, concerns have been expressed that the superintendent has been diverting money allotted for classroom supplies to further the education of the children to give staffers salary increases. Others say the superintendent has been padding the pockets of his friends. The School District is in financial crisis but the superintendent has found a way to increase salaries. Fitz runs a hand through his hair and shakes his head in frustration. The superintendent will have to explain how he has been spending school funds. He looks up from the document when he hears a knock at the door.
"Yes, Victoria", looking up from the document with a frown on his face.
"Superintendent Hixson has arrived, sir", assessing the distressed look on his face.
"Send him in, please", standing and sliding on his jacket. Hixson smiles at the attractive woman as she escorts him into the office and Fitz walks from behind his desk to greet the man.
"Good morning, Superintendent Hixson. So glad you could make it today", Fitz says, extending a handshake.
"And good morning to you as well, Council President Grant. We finally get a chance to meet. So sorry I had to reschedule our last meeting – an unforeseen matter", shaking Fitz' hand.
"That's quite all right. I have more than enough work to keep me occupied", Fitz says, flashing his politician's smile.
"I'm sure that is true", glancing around the office thinking Marla never invited him to the office.
"May I offer you something – coffee, tea?" Sweeping a hand toward the credenza across the room holding the refreshments.
"No – no – nothing for me. Thank you."
"Well have a seat, please", gesturing to one of the chairs in front of the desk.
The superintendent lowers his tall lean frame onto one of chairs and sets his portfolio onto the other. He smiles at the family photographs on the desk and those that line the credenza behind the desk.
"You have a handsome family, Mr. President."
"Thank you", Fitz says, smiling at their wedding photo facing him on the desk. "I'm a lucky man."
"Indeed", replies the superintendent.
"Chauncey – may I call you Chauncey?"
"Of course", the superintendent says, curling his lips upward without baring his teeth.
"And call me Fitz." Hixson nods with the same smile on his lips. "Chauncey, I asked you here to gain your perspective on the challenges facing our schools. You've been the superintendent of schools for the past four years – is that correct?"
The superintendent groans to himself thinking here comes another new official trying to understand why the city's schools are failing.
"That is correct. What specifically would you like to know, Fitz?"
Fitz sighs to himself thinking it is going to be like pulling teeth getting information out of the man. He is a Wilson appointee and loyal to the mayor.
"Specifically, I would like to understand the performance issues that are plaguing our schools. The latest numbers show test scores continue to drop – have been dropping for the past three years."
Fitz reaches for the folder containing the report Darrin provided him on the School District and the superintendent shifts uncomfortably in his seat, thinking the new Council President is going to lay the performance problems at his feet. He is so tired of explaining why the children of this city are not learning. Everybody knows what the damn problem is.
"Fitz, I'm not sure how much you understand about our city", Hixson says in a lofty tone.
Fitz is unperturbed by the man's condescending and patronizing tone. He is used to individuals taking the first shot across the negotiating table, hoping to throw him off balance. It did not work when he was negotiating and it will not work today, so he leans back in his chair and waits for the pompous man to answer his question. Realizing the Council President is not shaken by the underhanded comment, the superintendent continues.
"The School District has been in financial crisis for decades and the children have not been meeting test standards for decades as well. Money is the lifeblood of any school system, and right now our schools are woefully underfunded. The way our state funds its schools is based on property taxes, which puts children in poorer districts at a disadvantage, before they ever step into a classroom."
Fitz nods in understanding.
"As you know, property values vary a lot from neighborhood to neighborhood and from district to district. Unfortunately, the property values in our city have been depressed for years. With the money we get from federal, state, and local governments, we can only spend about $9000 per pupil, which is far less than what is needed. Two-thirds of ourstudents at the two elementary schools and the one middle-upper high school come from low-income families, and a third are learning English as a second language. One nurse commutes between the three schools and the two elementary schools share an art teacher and a music teacher. We don't have a lot of the extra things that other districts may have simply because we can't afford them. In fact, we might have to layoff of the nurse, the art teacher, and the music teacher before the next school year begins."
Fitz continues to nod. Hixson is confirming everything he has read in the reports.
"Now, in affluent suburbs like Church Falls, where your daughter goes to school, well the picture is quite different." Fitz shifts uncomfortably in his chair because the man has struck a nerve. He hopes his face is not red.
"The Church Falls School District spends roughly $29,000 on each student. Class sizes there are small and every student has an individualized learning plan. Nearly all teachers at the Church Falls schools have a decade of experience and earn, on average, more than $90,000 a year. Children have at least one daily break for "mindful movement," and lunch is cooked on-site, including a daily vegetarian option. So, when you ask why the children of our city are underperforming, the answer is our school district simply has less to work with — fewer businesses, lower property values."
Hixson stares a Fitz tight face and continues.
"So what happens when this school-funding imbalance persists - when many of our country's poorest students also attend its poorest schools?" The question is rhetorical of course. "The achievement gap between this nation's wealthiest and poorest students grows dramatically, it doesn't shrink. So, that is how we get children who are the same age - in the same grade - being educated so differently. That is why the children of our city are underperforming."
The superintendent leans back in the chair, folds his large hands in his lap, and stares Fitz in his blue eyes. He is tired of these new people asking him about the performance problem. Fitz nods repeatedly, concluding today is not the day to ask the superintendent about how he is spending the School District's budget.
"Tell me about your thoughts on charter schools", Fitz asks. "What is your position on school choice?" And the question startles the man.
"Fitz, parents currently have choice within the public school system. Parents can send their children to a neighborhood school, magnet school, online school, or home school them. Charter schools are part of the public school system, but they take funds from the traditional schools. Every year we lose enrollment to charters. Since our school system is funded based on the number of students served, when enrollment drops, so does total district revenue. Charter schools only further degrades the quality of education we can provide the children who attend traditional neighborhood schools."
Fitz nods, thinking the traditional schools should be able to operate on a smaller budget, since they are responsible for fewer students. But he decides to save this thought for a later discussion.
"If I am to be honest, Fitz, part of the reasons we have charters is because the traditional public school system is failing to do its job. Parents are demanding better quality education for their children, so they enroll their children into a charter school. Charter schools hold out the prospect that they can do better for children, but that is not always the case. There are many poor performing charter schools."
Fitz pinches the bridge of his nose. The whole school choice matter is more complicated than he realized, and the matter certainly will not be resolved today.
"Thank you Chauncey for agreeing to meet with me today. This has been very educational – no pun intended", he smiles weakly.
"Anytime, Fitz", the superintendent says with a broad smile. "We look forward to increase the district's funding under your leadership", knowing the mayor has already cut the school budget significantly. The two men shake hands and Hixson turns to leave, but stops before exiting the office.
"Is there something else Chauncey?" Fitz asks as his headache builds.
"Yes", pressing a finger to his pursed lips. "If you want to better understand why our children aren't performing well – why they are flocking to charter schools – then you should meet with the head of the teachers' union. The union has a lot of say about what happens in the classroom. Funding is a problem, but so is who we put in front of our children." Fitz nods as the man leaves the office.
"Victoria", he yells out to his assistant. Hearing the urgency in her boss' voice, Victoria springs from her seat and hurries into his office.
"Yes sir", wondering what is wrong because he never yells.
"Schedule a meeting with the head of the teachers' union."
XXX
Bennie pulls up to the no parking zone in front of City Hall and waits for Marion to exit the building. He glances at the clock on the dashboard thinking she is perpetually late. They agreed to leave work early today so they could go shopping for groceries and practice preparing their first meal at his apartment tonight. If she does not come out in five more minutes he will circle around the block because he does not want to remain parked illegally, even though his brother is the new President of the City Council.
While Mayor Wilson sits in the back of the black city-issued SUV waiting for his driver to return, he watches as Marion hurries from City Hall. He wonders why the tough, but always cool doctor, is in such a hurry. He leans forward and watches as Marion approaches the waiting car and quickly realizes it is not a what but a who that has Marion rushing like a bat out of hell. So Marion has a boyfriend he thinks when he sees her slide into the car and immediately kiss the man sitting behind the steering wheel. Marion looks happy and Wilson wonders who the new man in her life is. Based on the man's clothing, Wilson assumes he is in the medical field. Unlike Marion, Bennie is not too interested in clothes. When he leaves the hospital, he usually wears a fresh pair of scrubs or changes into work-out clothes before heading over to the gym.
"I'm so sorry I'm late. My meeting went longer than planned", Marion says hastily as she buckles her seatbelt. "I know you hate when I'm late."
"Calm down", he says, smiling at her adoringly. "I'm fine. I've only been here a few minutes."
"You're are?" Pressing the back of her hand against his forehead. "Are you feeling all right?
"I am", leaning over and giving her a kiss.
"Well, let's go grocery shopping", she says with a smile.
Daniel, the mayor's driver, slides behind the steering wheel holding the phone Wilson left on his desk and notices the mayor is focused on the car in front of them.
"Your phone, boss", Daniel says, turning around to give the mayor his phone.
"Daniel, take down the license plate of that car in front of us", Wilson says, pointing to the car parked in front of City Hall.
"You mean that blue Tesla? That's a beautiful car –expensive too", Daniel says with a nod and a smile.
"Have D - O- T run the plates. I want to know everything about the owner."
"You got it boss", Daniel says, picking up his phone from the passenger seat and snapping a picture of the license plate as the car carefully merges into traffic. "I'll have that information by the time you're finished with your meeting, sir.
"Let's get going, Daniel. I don't want to be late."
Mayor Wilson leans back against the black leather seat practicing his response to the people who are increasing the pressure on him to privatize the police department in the next fiscal year. The only thing they want to hear when he is going to transfer the police department to them, everything else is just noise.
XXX
Ben and Marion walk from the parking lot to the front door of Bryson Markets ready to buy everything they will need to prepare their first meal together.
"Do we need one of these?" Ben asks, pointing to the line of shopping carts outside of the supermarket's doors.
"No, this little basket should hold everything we have to get", Marion says, picking up one of the red plastic hand carriers stacked at the entryway. When they enter the store they stand just inside the sliding glass doors looking around. They immediately begin to feel overwhelmed.
"Have you ever done this before?" Ben asks, looking at Marion who is holding the little plastic basket in front of her and standing as stiff as a board.
"Of course not", she says with incredulity. "Have you?"
"I think my mom used to bring me with her sometimes when I was a kid."
"Which way do we go?" She asks.
"Let's look at our shopping list first to see everything we need", Ben says, sliding the phone from his pocket. They continue standing in front of the sliding glass door looking at his phone screen until they are interrupted by an annoyed-looking woman.
"Excuse me. Are you going in or coming out?" The woman barks in frustration as she tries to enter the market with her cart. Ben and Marion step aside and for 10 more minutes continue to look at the screen.
"Okay, let's go this way", Ben says, pointing to the right, in the direction of the produce department. "I once read you should only shop at the perimeter of the market."
"Why is that?" Marion asks curiously.
"Because that's where all the healthy stuff is."
"Suppose we need something from down one of those other aisles?"
"Then we'll venture down one, but only if necessary", he says definitively. "We're going to need shallots, peppers, and bok choy", he says. "You get the peppers and I'll get the shallots."
Marion nods and walks over to one side of the produce section and Ben goes to the other side. She walks slowly, carefully studying the array of vegetables, most of which she has never seen in their uncooked state. She stands in front of the assortment of peppers and frowns. She never knew there were so many different kinds of peppers and thinks the colors are beautiful. Not sure of what kind of peppers they need, she fills four plastic bags with an assortment of peppers and 15 minutes later she looks around for Ben.
"I have peppers", she says, holding up the four plastic bags.
"Do we need that many?" Frowning as he looks at all of the peppers.
"I don't know, they're so pretty. Aren't the colors beautiful, Ben?" Placing the bags into the basket. "Did you get the scallions?"
"Is it scallions or shallots?" Reaching into his pocket for his phone.
"Just get both, Ben. We don't have time to keep looking at the list" He nods and fills one plastic bag with shallots and the other with scallions and places them into the basket.
"Let's find the bok choy", he says, scanning the array of leafy vegetables.
"Do you want bananas for your smoothie?" Marion asks, wandering over to the fruit.
"Sure", he says, still trying to find a sign for the bok choy.
Marion grabs two bunches of bananas and places them into the basket.
"Did you find the bok choy?"
"Here it is", grabbing the leafy vegetable and dropping it into the basket. "Let's get the chicken."
"Maybe we should get some mangoes and grapes?" Marion wonders out loud.
"Why?"
"To eat, silly", filling a plastic bag with mangoes and grabbing a large bag of grapes. She drops the items into the basket as they search for the chicken."
"Let's go down there – down that aisle", Marion says, pointing down the aisle where snacks are sold.
"I don't think we need anything down there, Mar", pulling the phone from his pocket.
"Let's just be adventurous, Ben. Oh my goodness, Ben, look at the selection of beer they have. Do you want to get some?"
"Sure – why not. They have pretty wide selection here", grabbing a couple six packs from the refrigerator. "These aren't going to fit in that little basket", he says, and they both look at the little basket trying to figure out what to do.
"Why don't you get a cart", says the woman they saw at the front door, who is shaking her head in disbelief. Ben and Marion look at each other as if the women's suggestion was the brightest thing they had ever heard.
"I'll wait here while you go get a cart, Ben." He nods, and walks away quickly in search of a cart. He wonders if he has to go back outside to get one.
Marion strolls up and down the aisles where the wine is sold searching for the Chardonnay. She grabs two bottles of her favorite white wine and decides to try a few other brands, lining them all on the floor. Ten minutes later Bennie comes back with a large red shopping cart.
"Whatcha got there?" Looking at the bottles of wine she is holding in her arms and the ones lined on the floor next to her.
"Just a few bottles of wine", she says, smiling brightly.
"We still have to get the chicken, Mar", and she nods.
They transfer all of their foodstuff, beer, and wine into the cart and, or the next two hours Bennie and Marion walk up and down all of the aisles making sure they get everything that is on Bennie's list. They also bought many items that were not on his list. Three hours since they entered the store and they are exhausted as they stand in the check-out line watching the total increase each time the cashier scans an item.
"I can't believe we spent over $500.00 on food. Who would have thought food was so expensive?" Bennie says, sliding behind the steering wheel.
"I'm hungry, Ben", Marion whines, folding her arms across her chest and sulking. "We have all of this food and can't eat any of it. That's why I don't cook. It's too much work."
"Well, I guess it's too late to cook tonight", looking at the time displayed on the dashboard. He cannot believe they spent three hours in the supermarket.
"I don't feel like waiting in a restaurant, Ben. It's getting late", Marion says grumpily. "This is all on you, Dr. Grant." Bennie presses his fingers against his temple because he knows she is upset when she calls him by his title.
"How about we order take-out?" Looking over at her apologetically. "I can order now so it's at the apartment when we get home. Would you like that? Do you want something from that Mediterranean place down on Coulter you like so much? You really like their food."
She shrugs her shoulders in frustration and he quickly voice dials the restaurant and orders their dinner.
"We can put away the groceries while we wait for our dinner to arrive."
"You can put away the groceries and wait for our dinner to arrive."
XXX
"Hurry, Ben. I have to go to the bathroom", Marion urges him as he sets all the grocery bags onto the floor outside of his apartment door and digs into his pocket for the keys. When the door swings open she rushes into the dark apartment. "Which way?" Looking at him in desperation when he turns on the lights.
"Straight back – through the bedroom."
Ben walks back and forth from the apartment to the hall collecting all of the grocery bags while Marion uses the bathroom. This is the first time Marion has visited his apartment and he is somewhat embarrassed by the sparsely decorated space. When Marion finishes in the bathroom, she looks around Ben's large, but sparsely decorated bedroom. The only things in the room are the king-sized bed, two nightstands and two lamps. At least he makes his bed she thinks as she opens what she assumes is his closet door. Her eyes grow wide and her mouth falls open as she looks around. What she sees is absolutely staggering. The door is actually a portal to a virtual sporting goods store for runners. Ben has all types of running gear, in all colors and for each season, all meticulously organized by color and season. Dozens of pairs of running shoes, organized in boxes, line the floor. Running suits, jackets, gym bags, sweatbands – everything a runner needs - are meticulously hung on rods and folded on shelves. Amongst all of the athletic gear, she sees the one expensive suit he wore on their first date and a few pairs of khaki pants and polo shirts hang next to it. Several sets of scrubs are neatly folded on a shelf, seemingly waiting for him to put them on. She pulls opens the drawers and finds lots of undershirts, underwear, tee shirts, all folded neatly and organized by color.
Marion shakes her head and wonders if he has an addiction to athletic gear as she roams down the hall back to the public space. She walks around the huge, open public space and realizes it is just as sparse as the bedroom, but the space is absolutely beautiful.
"Ben –"
"I told you I hadn't decorated - I'm hardly ever here", looking at all of the grocery bags and wondering where he is going to put everything. He has never had this much food in the apartment.
"It's a gorgeous apartment – the views are amazing", Marion says, walking over to the huge windows that face the park. "Ben, the hardwood floors are beautiful – not a scratch. I can really decorate this place nicely. It has so much potential."
Ben nods as he carefully pulls each item from the bag and organizes them on the counter.
"I can't believe after three months this is the first time I'm seeing your apartment", Marion says as she walks into the kitchen.
"I told you, there's nothing to see."
"You need furniture, Ben", sitting down at the kitchen counter. "This is such a beautiful apartment, it's criminal not to decorate it – liven it up with some color. We should go furniture shopping - make this place look like someone actually lives here."
"Okay, we'll go to Feingold's", carefully placing items in the cabinet with the labels facing forward.
"Feingold's? I don't think I've ever heard of that furniture store", watching him put away the food.
"It's in Church Falls. Everyone in my family buys furniture from there." Marion rolls her eyes thinking they probably sell old-fashioned furniture.
"I wonder when our food is going to get here." Marion asks when her stomach begins to growl.
XXX
"Babe, I think Hildie is trying to bribe you", Olivia says as she rubs the body butter onto her arm.
"Bribe me? Why do you say that?" Looking at his wife curiously.
"Because she baked your favorite cinnamon rolls yesterday morning."
"That's because she likes me, Liv", he says seriously and Olivia shakes her head and rolls her eyes.
"That might be true, but she also wants to get on your good side. She wants you to agree to let her watch JoJo when I go back to work."
"She wants to watch JoJo?"
"She does. She asked me if she could when I told her I was returning to work. I told her I would have to discuss it with my husband – and that would be you, mister", looking over her shoulder and giving him a smile.
"So what do you think?" Watching as she lifts her leg and massages it with the cream.
"I don't know, babe. Hildie already has a lot to do around here – cooking, cleaning …."
"It would mean we wouldn't have to get JoJo up and out of the house early. We can maintain her schedule."
"I know, but –"
"And we can shield her from illnesses she will undoubtedly pick up from other children."
"It sounds like you've already made up your mind", turning around on the bed to face him.
"I do like the idea of JoJo staying in our home, Liv – until she gets a little older that is", he adds quickly.
"You don't think it will be too much for Hildie?"
"She wouldn't have volunteered if she thought it was too much. Besides, you said you would only be in the office a couple days a week."
"And I'll be in the field some days – meeting with people."
"But you'll be at home most days – right?"
"I suppose", not really sure how her schedule is going to unfold. "I just want what's best for Jo."
"I think her staying home for now is best", he says, looking at her closely. "Are you okay with that?"
"I guess so", she says slowly, still thinking.
"Then we can tell Hildie she can do it?" He presses on.
"I guess so. Yes - she can do it", dipping her fingers into the body butter again.