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.

42. Chapter 42 March Has Been a Long

A/N: Reader575, yeah, a few more stumbling blocks are in their way, but all will be good. The stumbling blocks will be there until they learn/remember the lessons Avril taught them at Mirage. You know what they say about repeating mistakes until you learn. Hint. BTW, gotta finish this story so I can catch up on my fav, Desert Princess. You write that story so well. Love me some Amir Fitz and Amira Olivia. Sister1256, we'll see how slick Ms Sanchez really is. There is always someone slicker. Hint. Guest 1, sorry but I had to laugh at your comment about waiting three weeks and this is all you got. It reminded of the tee shirts my mother would buy nieces while on vacation. "My grandma went on vacation and all she bought me was a rotten tee shirt." I really do appreciate that you wait for updates. You'll find out what's going on. I have left many hints. I get the chapters out as soon as I can. So much is going on. Guest 2, Fitz is taking pills prescribed when he was discharged from the hospital. Gabby, I can't land the plane because it has not reached its destination. You might have to parachute out. I appreciate all feedback. No worries. Cleo, you always crack me up. Victoria best not ever cross your path. Fitz is taking the pain pills prescribed for him after the accident. Remember, he started popping them when he and Liv went to their lake house in the mountains, after he had the panic attack. Here's a little insight, Fitz has never fully recovered emotionally from the attempt to murder his family. A man doesn't easily get over something like that. He feels he is always supposed to protect his family, no matter what. Monica, your recap/analysis as usual is on point. You know this story as well as I do. You're right, Fitz and Olivia have worked hard for everything they have, but Victoria simply thinks she can use her looks to get what she wants. I wonder how that has been working for her. Hmm. 'Hide those yearbooks, Ben' – too funny. Also, I spent a lot of time on the cooking lesson because these two brothers needed to really reconnect – put the past behind them relative to Liv. What better way to do so than in the kitchen. The two brothers are going to need each other in the future. You're right, Marion has Ben and Liv frozen in time, but maybe that's because she is frozen in time. Hint. Guest 3, Keep in mind the timeline, it's important. I can't rush time. Well I can but the story won't sense. It takes time for certain events to unfold and for people to heal especially when someone has tried to kill you and your family. Guest 4, as Olivia told Mona what Rev. Walker told her many, many chapters ago: "we are either going through something, coming out of something, or getting ready to go into something." Such is the cycle of life. Although this is fiction, it is based on the realities of life. We go through stuff. I understand your need to tap out. The title reflects the dreams Fitz had whenever he and Olivia are apart. He is always with her, even in his dreams. Remember, the story opened with Fitz dreaming about Olivia. Fitz has dream about Olivia at least three or four time so far. One more to go. LadiiDebbie, I also love rub a ho Victoria. Too funny. Glad you're enjoying the story.

Chapter 42. March Has Been a Long Month

Waiting patiently for someone to open the door, Bennie gazes up at the sky, squinting as droplets of rain fall onto his face. His parents' cars are parked in the driveway, the telltale sign that someone is home. He presses the doorbell again.

"Bennie", Gerry says, scowling with his large frame blocking the entryway.

"Dad", Bennie says, stepping onto the top step and extending a wet handshake. Gerry looks at his son's outstretched hand, seemingly trying to decide if he should accept it. "Mom knows I was coming over."

Gerry nods, shakes the hand, and then steps aside, finally allowing Bennie to enter the house. Wondering why his father seems upset, Bennie walks down the familiar hall toward the family room. His rubber-soled tennis shoes squeak with each step on the hardwood floor. He looks around the immaculate room, thinking nothing seems to have changed, nothing ever seems to change in this house.

"Your mother and sister are upstairs", Gerry says gruffly, motioning his head in the direction of the staircase, never taking his eyes off his son. Bennie nods, watching his father plop into his huge leather chair on the other side of the room. He feels like he just entered enemy territory.

"Is there something wrong, dad? You seem – tense."

"What are you doing here, Bennie?" Gerry asks curtly, staring at the bag in his son's hand.

"What do you mean – I'm here to see Nora."

"I don't want any shit out of you, Bennie. I don't want you upsetting your sister."

"What are you talking about?" Stunned by his father's unexpected attack. "Why would I do such a thing?"

"Because Fitzgerald has your ear – you've always looked up to him. And Olivia –"

"Dad, please. I'm here to see Nora – to welcome her home – nothing more."

Bennie", his mother says, breezing into the family room with Nora slowly trailing behind, but stopping at the doorway. "You're wet - get out of that jacket and let me get you a towel."

"I'm fine, mom. I don't need a towel", standing and giving his mother a hug and kiss on the cheek.

"Well take off your jacket. Would you like a cup of tea?"

"No thanks, mom", allowing his mother to pull off his wet running jacket.

"Well I'm going to hang this on the coat rack in the hall", Maura says, holding the wet jacket in front of her as she walks from the room.

"Hey, Nora - it's good to see you", smiling as he walks over to his sister with open arms. Tugging at her sweater sleeve, Nora hesitantly steps into his embrace and Bennie is taken aback by how frail she feels.

"You too, Bennie", Nora says softly, wiping away the tears with the back of her hand.

"Welcome home, sister", kissing her on the cheek as he guides her over to the sofa. He is surprised how quiet his usually smart-mouthed sister is; she has changed.

"Will you be staying for lunch, Bennie?" Maura asks.

"No – mom - I can't. I have to get back to the hospital. I just wanted to stop by and welcome Nora back home", gently squeezing his sister's hand.

"Of course", Maura says, flitting about the room as Gerry glares at his youngest son.

"I have something for you, Nora", Bennie says, opening the plastic bag and pulling out the long cellophane package. "You remember how much we loved eating these as kids?" Nora's eyes light up as they always did whenever her older brother brought home the licorice candy.

"I haven't had these in forever", Nora says with a big smile, taking the pack of licorice from her brother's hand and quickly ripping open the cellophane.

"Me either", he agrees.

"That's because you're a health nut", sliding a piece of red licorice from the pack. "I hear Dr. Bennie has a girlfriend—a lady doctor - and she's quite stylish", Nora giggles like a little girl.

"Her name is Marion. I would like for you to meet her when you're ready."

"I would like that", Nora says, giving her brother a weak smile.

"How is Marion doing? I haven't seen her since…."

"She's doing fine, mom."

"Well - tell her I said hello. We must have you two over for dinner soon."

"I'll tell her, mom. Well, I gotta get going."

"Thanks for stopping by, Bennie", Nora says shyly. "And thanks for the Twizzlers", taking another bite of the licorice candy.

"Come in the kitchen for lunch, Nora. Gerry, are you going to have lunch?"

"I'll be in after I see Bennie out", following his son down the hall to the front door. "That was kind of you, Bennie - bringing Nora something she likes."

"She's my sister, dad."

"Well your brother acts like she's a goddamn pariah. I won't have him upsetting her."

"Fitz just needs some time, dad", sliding on his jacket and walking toward the door. Wiith hand on the doorknob, he stops as if he just remembered something, so he turns and looks up at his father's set face. "By the way - what do you know about Mayor Wilson?"

Startled by the unexpected question, Gerry folds his arms across his chest and frowns.

"What do you mean? He's the mayor of the city."

"Well, he's got it in for, Fitz. Marion says he has some kind of scheme to take down

Fitz."

"What do you mean take down Fitzgerald?" His jaw twitching.

"I don't have any details – I just know what Marion has told me. I thought you might have heard something at one of your meetings."

"I've heard nothing – know nothing."

Bennie looks at his father's agitated face for a moment, nods is head, then exits back into the rain.

XXX

Victoria reaches for the telephone positioned on the desk next to the monitor and calls Clara, Councilman Darius Moton's administrative assistant, to cancel his weekly lunch meeting with the Council President. She reassures Clara next week's lunch meeting is still on at the same time. Smirking as she slowly returns the receiver to its base, she pushes back her chair and stands when she sees the caterer pushing the food cart toward the reception area.

"Hello, Ms. Sanchez", the young man smiles, ogling the woman the way he does each week when he delivers her lunch order.

"Hello, Mark", smiling kindly as she walks over to the Council President's office. "You can set up the lunch in the usual place", pointing to the credenza across from the conference table.

Ten minutes later Mark is wheeling the cart from the office, smiling at Victoria as he passes by her desk. He has a crush on her but he knows he does not stand a chance with a woman like that, but a boy can dream.

"Thank you, Mark. I'll see you next week", she says in a sing-song tone, giving him a huge smile as she waves good-bye.

"Hello, Mark – bye Mark", Fitz says as he jogs past the young man waiting at the elevator. "My meeting went longer than expected", he says to Victoria, loosening his tie as he hurries into the office. "I'm sure Councilman Moton is ready to chew off his right arm."

"Mr. Grant – Mr. Grant", Victoria calls out, rushing into the office after him.

"The councilman isn't here?" Fitz says, surprised that Darius is not in the room. He looks around the room, then at the food spread on the credenza, then at Victoria. Darius is never late for lunch, something must be wrong.

"I'm sorry, sir - but Carla – Councilman Moton's assistant - called to cancel for the councilman. He apparently had to attend a last-minute appointment."

He frowns as he gazes at the array food across the room. This is the first lunch Darius has missed a lunch since they started meeting almost three months ago; he must have gotten a better lunch offer. Victoria smiles as he runs his fingers through his hair. He is a man of habit and right now he is completely thrown off because his lunch date is not here.

"I'll let leave to eat your lunch, sir", she says, turning to leave.

"That's a lot of food for one", he says half to himself.

"Well maybe we can give some to the staff?" Watching as he rolls up his sleeves. "I'll set the leftovers in the kitchen when you're finished." He continues to frown, still pondering what could have caused Darius to cancel at the last minute.

"Victoria, why don't you join me for lunch – that is if you don't have plans. As you can see there is more than enough."

"I don't have plans, sir. I was just getting ready to go out for lunch."

"Well that settles it, we can dine together. Besides, it's raining out – you don't want to go out in the rain."

"Thank you, sir. That's so kind of you", walking into the office and sitting at the table across from him. For the next hour Victoria is in full listening mode, trying to learn as much as she can about his personal life.

"We'll have a bit of a breather once I submit my plan to the mayor and Council. March has been a long month", he says tiredly as he runs his fingers through his hair

"I don't know how much of a breather we're going to have. The hearings will begin soon after", delicately sliding the fork into her mouth.

"Party-pooper", he says with a smile, and she smiles, too. I told Liv we should go away for a long weekend with the girls after we're done with this phase – catch up on some things I've not had time to do.

"That sounds lovely", she says with a forced smile.

"Well I'm not sure if it's going to happen - Liv just started a new job. She might not be able to get away", stuffing a forkful of salad into his mouth.

"I see", not at all interested in discussing his wife. "So what do you like to do on your time off ?"

"Spend time with my family - of course – and cook."

"Cook? I didn't know you cooked. What do you cook?"

"Almost anything - really. But lately I've been exploring cooking sous vide style", stuffing more salad into his mouth.

"Sous vide?"

"Sous vide is a culinary technique in which vacuum-sealed food is immersed in a water bath and cooked at a very precise and consistent temperature."

"I see."

"Liv bought me the machine, even though she complains about all of the small kitchen appliances I already have."

"You sound like a professional chef", raising the glass of water to her lips.

"Hardly, but I know my way around the kitchen. How about you – do you like to cook?"

"I can cook – but nothing like sous….

"Vide - sous vide."

"Nothing like sous vide", she smiles.

"I've used the technique to prepare soups, fish, and meat that I then pair with Liv's favorite wines."

"Don't you like wine?" Feigning ignorance, and he frowns slightly.

"Sometimes I'll have a glass with, Liv - but I prefer scotch", cutting the grilled salmon with the side of his fork. "In fact, Liv is the only one who drinks wine when we all have dinner together."

"All?" She asks, setting the glass of water onto the napkin.

"Liv's parents – my in-laws. They've been staying with us since …." His relaxed countenance fades and his eyes are now filled with sadness. She knows he is thinking about the car accident – Charlie Barber.

"So how much longer are they going to stay with you – your in-laws?"

"I don't know – it doesn't matter - I love my in-laws. Besides, we have more than enough room. Having them live with us gives the girls an opportunity to get to know them before they return to Senegal."

"They live in Africa?"

"They're missionaries for our church – Triumph Tabernacle."

"I didn't know you were a member of Triumph."

"It's Liv's family's church - we were married there. I joined shortly thereafter", sliding the salmon into his mouth.

Victoria nods, thinking Olivia really has a lot of influence over him. She has to give the woman credit.

"It sounds like you have a terrific relationship with your in-laws. So no in-law jokes?" She asks with a light chuckle.

"No in-law jokes", he says taking a sip of water. "But I do have a few other jokes. Would you like to hear one?" Smiling eagerly.

"Of course", she says blithely, really enjoying their time together.

Each time he delivers a punchline Victoria throws her head back in laughter and playfully slaps him on the arm.

"Mr. Grant, I think you might've missed your calling. Who would've thought you were a comedian."

"Liv says I need new material - but I still think my jokes are funny", taking another sip of water from the bottle.

"Well, sir - I think they're absolutely hilarious", and he beams with pride.

"You should call me, Fitz. Mr. Grant sounds so formal", repeating her words back to her, and they both burst into laughter.

"Okay – Fitz it is – but just when we're alone. We want to remain professional", and he nods in agreement. "Now - give me your best joke. What is the one joke that will make my cheeks hurt?"

XXX

After leaving her meeting with Donald McGinn, the founding director of the Diatell Institute, the Corporate Social Responsibility Think Tank, Olivia is once again excited and invigorated about developing Bryson's philanthropic program. For the past few days she has been somewhat despondent, questioning if she has what it takes to build such a large-scale philanthropic program. However, after meeting with Donald for the past few hours she is fired up and ready to go. Donald gave her a lot of good information and has invited her to come back to the Institute anytime to discuss her ideas with him and use their resources. He even gave her the passcode to the members-only page of their website so she can access the online resources whenever she wanted. Today is definitely a good day she thinks as she snakes the SUV through the downtown traffic in search of the Convention Center.

Stopped at the traffic light, she watches the wipers swish the rain back and forth on the windshield and reflects on the arduous process she undertook to learn about corporate philanthropy. She shakes her head, now realizing how off base her approach was. She spent hours on end scouring through all of the standard resources - books, philanthropy websites, etc. before finally stumbling onto the Diatell Institute website. Well maybe her process was not off base after all because it led her to Donald, who has just become her new best friend. She smiles as she rushes into the Convention Center hoping to hear Mona speak at the local International Women's Day event.

Standing at the back of the packed room, Olivia looks over a sea of well-dressed women sitting at round tables draped with white tablecloths. She listens proudly to Mona deliver her speech – her presentation is flawless. She joins the crowd in applause when Mona finishes her speech, quickly making her way to the front of the crowded room when Mona steps down from the stage.

"Olivia", Mona says in surprise. "I didn't know you were here."

"I just happened to be in the neighborhood and thought I would drop in to hear your speech. You were terrific, Mona", giving her friend a warm hug.

"Could you hear my knees knocking together?" Mona laughs, glad the presentation is over.

"Well, now that you mention it …." The two women laugh out loud, happy to see each other again.

"But really, Mona, you were terrific. You won't have any problem doing it again next year - and the year after - and –"

"Okay – okay. I get it", playfully waving her hand in the air. "I'm sure Tom is glad the event is over. He said he could not tolerate listening to me practice that speech one more day."

"How about we celebrate over lunch?" Olivia says with a big smile.

"That sounds good to me."

"Meet me at Restaurant 52 – I'm parked in the lot."

"All right, I need to get my purse – I'll see you there in about 15 minutes."

XXX

"So how are you doing Olivia – how is the new job coming along?"

"I'm just getting started, Mona. But like you, I've been quite nervous lately."

"Nervous – you – about what?"

"Mona, starting a multi-millionaire dollar philanthropy program is new for me. Before today, I felt like I was in over my head."

"And what happened today?"

"I met with the founding director of the Diatell Institute, a Corporate Social Responsibility Think Tank. Hold on a second, Mona - I need to take this call from Hildie."

Mona watches as Olivia's eyes widen at whatever Hildie is telling her.

"I'll be there in 45 minutes, Hildie. Thank you for calling."

"What's the matter, Olivia?" Mona asks with concern in her voice.

"I'm sorry, Mona - but I have to go. Jolie is not feeling well. Hildie says she's been cranky all morning and now she seems to be running a fever", grabbing her pocketbook from the seat and standing quickly. "I owe you a raincheck, Mona."

"Go – go. Take care of our baby. And call me later to let me know how she's doing", Mona calls after Olivia who is already dashing through the restaurant's dining room.

XXX

Olivia arrives home in record time to find an anxious Hildie waiting at the front door with a screaming Jolie who is bundled in a snowsuit, mittens, and knit hat. The poor baby looks like she is going to the Antarctica.

"Our baby is not feeling well", Hildie says nervously, placing Jolie in her mother's arms and hanging the diaper bag on Olivia's shoulder.

"I've called Dr. Jordan - he's expecting us", Olivia says, turning around and heading back out the door while trying to console a screaming Jolie.

"Shall I call Mr. Grant, ma'am?" Hildie asks, clutching her chest.

"No – not yet. He's busy with work. I'll wait to see what the doctor says."

XXX

Olivia sits in the examination room nervously wringing her hands watching Dr. Jordan examine her screaming baby. She feels helpless as Jolie's small body thrashes around the examination table when Dr. Jordan sticks the otoscope into her ear. He nods as he examines the Jolie's ear canal.

"Olivia, Jolie is going to be fine in a few days. She has that bug that is going around and a slight ear infection. You get her dressed then meet me in my office."

As Olivia tries to dress her baby, Jolie cries and squirms on her mother's lap. The medicine has not begun to take effect. She continues to comfort Jolie as she walks down the hall to Dr. Jordan's private office. Setting her pocketbook and diaper bag onto one chair, she sits onto the other chair, still rocking Jolie.

"Are you using the same pharmacy, Olivia?" Dr. Jordan asks, writing notes in Jolie's chart.

"Yes", looking down at her angry, red-faced baby.

"I've given Jolie a dose of medicine to make her comfortable and I'll call in the prescription to your pharmacy. And how is Fitz doing these days? I'm sure his hands are quite full now that he's a politician."

"He is quite busy these days", Olivia says, continuing to look at Jolie with concern as the baby's eyes slowly drift close.

"Well tell him I said hello. When you get the medicine, just follow the instructions on the bottle, Olivia - one dose every eight hours. If she isn't feeling better within 48 hours then give me a call. Jolie is going to be fine - she's a tough one", giving the anxious mother a reassuring smile.

Olivia nods, grabs her pocketbook and slides the diaper bag strap onto her shoulder. She wants to get Jolie home where she can be comfortable. Driving home at a more deliberate speed than when she left the city, Olivia glances in the rear view mirror at Jolie, who is bundled in her knit cap, scarf, mittens, and down snowsuit. She knows Jolie hates to be hot, but she wants to make sure her baby's condition does not worsen. She presses the Call button on the steering wheel, then says Fitz Office, and the phone on the other end begins to ring.

"Council President Grant's office", the voice on the other end says.

"Hello, Victoria, this is Mrs. Grant, may I speak with my husband, please?"

"Hello, Mrs. Grant", Victoria says in a syrupy voice and rolling her eyes. "The Council President is in a meeting right now - can I take a message?" Olivia sighs and glances in the rear view mirror again at Jolie.

"Yes. Please ask my husband to stop by the pharmacy on his way home tonight and pick up a prescription for Jolie. We're just leaving the doctor's office and I want to take her home and get her in bed."

"I will give him your message, Mrs. Grant. And I hope Jolie feels better. Have good day", hanging up the phone and resuming her typing.

As Olivia drives home, she wonders if she will have to find a new pediatrician if Fitz agrees to move to the city.

XXX

When Fitz walks into the house he frowns, wondering what is wrong with Jolie when he hears the ear-piercing screams. He sets his briefcase onto the table in the foyer, hangs his coat in the closet, and walks down the hall to the family room. He frowns again when he enters the room and sees Olivia pacing back and forth trying to console the inconsolable.

"What's the matter with JoJo?" Looking at his screaming, red-faced daughter.

"Babe, give me Jo's medicine. Dr. Jordan gave her a dose at his office but he wants her to take another dose before she goes to bed. She has a cold and slight ear infection.

"She has a cold?" Looking at Jolie sympathetically as he brushes her warm cheek with the back of his hand.

"Fitz", Olivia whines. "Don't tell me you forgot to pick up Jo's medicine."

"Forgot? I never knew I was to pick up any medicine."

"Fitz, I asked Victoria to tell you to pick up the prescription on your way home."

"I never got the message, Liv. Why didn't you call me on my cell?"

"Because I don't like disturbing you during the day. I know how busy you are", still trying to comfort Jolie.

"Come here, Angel", lifting Jolie from his wife's arms. "Are you not feeling well?" Kissing her forehead.

"Fitz, we're going to need that medicine tonight." He nods, kisses Jolie's warm cheek again, and places her back into Olivia's arms.

"I'll be back in 20."

"You know this is not the first time your assistant hasn't given you my message."

"We've been busy pulling together that legislation together, Liv. I'm sure she just forgot."

"I don't like that she forgot about something that's so important", glaring at him.

"Liv –"

"You need to let her know not giving you my messages is not appropriate, Fitz. She needs to give you my messages."

"Liv, just text me if you ever want to reach me", turning to walk from the room.

"Text you?" She says with incredulity. "You hate texting", shouting over Jolie's screams.

"I'm just trying to come up with a solution, Liv", he says tiredly. "I'm just so damn busy all day I don't have time to track down messages."

"That's my point – that's why I don't want to call your cell", getting more annoyed.

"Liv –"

"The solution is for your assistant to give you my messages. We shouldn't have to come up with workarounds just because she forgets or whatever. You need to make sure she knows that", she says adamantly, giving him a hard stare. "If you don't tell her then I will", walking from the room to take Jolie upstairs to the nursery.

XXX

Jolie had a restless night and when it was time for the next dose of medicine she fought them something awful, not even Cena and Bowtie were able to calm the sick baby. As Fitz stands in front of the mirror knotting his tie, he stares at Jolie's reflection in the mirror as Olivia sits on the bed rocking her. Her fever is beginning to go down but she is still cranky.

"I'm staying home with Jo today - she's still miserable", kissing Jolie on the forehead. Fitz walks over to the bed and takes Jolie from Olivia's arms.

"What's the matter, Angel – you still aren't feeling well? Jolie sneezes and sprays her father's face, which illicits a laugh from Olivia. "Keeping her out of daycare did not stop her from getting sick."

"Well she's more comfortable in her own home, right, JoJo?" Rocking his baby and kissing her on her warm cheek.

"I'm going to call Dr. Jordan if she's not feeling better by this afternoon."

"Didn't he say 48 hours?" Placing Jolie back in Olivia's arms.

"I know, but –"

"Give the medicine more time to work, Liv", he says in frustration.

"What's the matter with you?" Looking at her husband's grimace.

"I'm damn glad this part of my legislative agenda is almost over."

"Fitz, your language. Little ears are in the room."

"She's doesn't know what I'm saying, Liv", sliding his phone from the nightstand.

"She hears and sees everything, babe. She's my little sponge", right Miss Jo, kissing the dozing baby on the nose.

"I'm going to get going now - call me later and let me know how Jo is doing", pecking his wife on the lips and kissing a sleeping Jolie on the top of her head.

"Aren't you going to have breakfast?"

"I'll grab something at the office. The traffic has been horrendous for the past week - there's construction everywhere.

"You know breakfast is the most important meal of the day."

"Well it won't be today. I'll make up for it at lunch - call me", kissing her again.

"I'll try, babe, I have a lot of research to do. I have to get my recommendation to Fred by the end of May."

"Well try", he says before walking from the bedroom.

"And tell your assistant to give you my messages", she yells, causing Jolie to squirm in her mother's arms.

XXX

Victoria arrives to work earlier than usual so she can place the pink message slip onto Fitz' desk. She purposely withheld Olivia's message from him yesterday because she knew he would bolt from the office to go to the pharmacy. They had such a lovely lunch together and she did not want the day to end early.

"Good morning", Fitz, Victoria says cheerfully when he walks into the reception area.

"Good morning, Victoria. Can you get me a copy of the monthly budget summary report? I want to compare the numbers to last month's numbers."

"Of course. I'll bring it in shortly."

"Thank you", walking toward his office then stopping as he remembers Olivia's command. "And Victoria, please make sure I get all of my messages, especially those from Mrs. Grant. Messages from my wife have top priority over everything else."

"Of course - but is there a problem?"

"Not a problem - but my wife called yesterday with an important message and I didn't get it."

"I don't understand", tilting her head to the side and feigning confusion.

"Liv said she left a message for me to stop at the pharmacy after work and I didn't get it. I'm sure it was just an oversight."

"There must be some mistake - I left the message on your desk yesterday while you were meeting with Councilman Dawson." He gives her a confused look "Perhaps it's still on your desk",

They go into his office and Victoria pretends to fumble through the papers on the desk for a few moments before sliding the pink slip from under the pile of papers

"Here it is", waving the paper in the air. "Looks like it got lost under all of those reports" walking over to Fitz and handing him the slip of paper.

"Victoria - I am so sorry", looking somewhat embarrassed.

"Apology not necessary. Things have been quite hectic around here lately. By the way - how is Jolie feeling today?"

"A few more doses of medicine and she'll be back to herself."

"That's good. I'm glad to hear that", turning to leave with a smile on her face.

"One more thing, Victoria, I'll be traveling to California next week so I'll need you to make airline and hotel reservations."

"California?" Looking at him with surprise. She had no idea he was planning a trip to California.

"Yes – San Jose' – Silicon Valley. I'm going to meet with two CEOs about how to stimulate economic growth in our city."

"I see", typing notes on her tablet. "And how long will you be in California?"

"Two days."

XXX - Bennie and Marion's Commitment

While the idea of preparing their meals is an appealing alternative to eating takeout or going to one of those fast casual dining restaurants every night, the reality is Bennie simply does not have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. His schedule leaves little time for cooking dinner in the evenings when he gets home. Moreover, his skill level is such that it takes him way too long to put a meal on the table, which is frustrating for Marion.

"I visited Nora yesterday", Bennie says, washing their dinner dishes. "It was kind of weird."

"Weird – why weird?" Marion asks as she drops the take-out containers into the trash bin.

"She was different - quiet. My parents are very protective of her right now."

Marion nods as she wipes the crumbs from the table.

"I would like for the two of you to meet when she is up to it", looking at her for any sign of resistance.

"Of course – let me know when. I'll get the oils while you finish the dishes. Where are you hurting tonight?" She calls over her shoulder as she walks from the kitchen.

"My deltoids and trapezii are killing me", he says, setting a plate onto the dish rack.

"Well get undressed while I get the Ben and Gerry muscle rub."

He nods, turns off the light, and walks to the bedroom. He smiles when he sees she has created a tiny space in the closet for him to hang his clothes.

"I'm almost out of ylang-ylang ", she calls from the bathroom, holding up the small brown bottle to the light.

Ben smiles because he has no idea what ylang-ylang is or any of the other oils she mixes together and massages over his skin. He pulls the wallet from his back pants pocket, steps out of the pants, and hangs them next to his shirt.

"And take everything off - and I mean everything", she hollers playfully from the bathroom as he walks back into the bedroom.

He tosses the wallet onto the nightstand, sits onto his side of the bed, and stares at the nightstand drawer for a long while. He does not want to violate her privacy but he wants to know - he needs to know if she is seeing other men. They have been dating for three months and they have not discussed the terms of their relationships. He has not asked if she is dating other men because he is not sure if he has the right to ask.

"I'll be there in a minute. I want to add a little more peppermint to Ben and Gerry", she chuckles.

He looks over his shoulder, making sure she is still in the bathroom, and then slowly slides open the nightstand drawer. Pushing around the few items in the drawer, he looks for the other gold foil packet that was in there on their first night together. Flush with anger and hurt, he slams the drawer shut.

"What was that, Ben?" Marion asks, standing in the doorway dressed in a skimpy nightgown and holding the tray of oils.

"Nothing – I almost knocked over the lamp", he lies easily, unable to look at her.

"Ben, I said to take off everything. Why do you still have on your under clothes?"

"Maybe we should do this some other time. I'm kind of tired."

"When has being tired ever a problem? You always say the massage helps you to fall asleep. In fact –"

"Just do it if you want, Marion. You don't have to make such a big deal about it", pulling off his undershirt and tossing it across the room. Her head snaps back and she frowns because he has never used that tone with her. She wonders what happened to change his demeanor.

"Is something wrong, Ben?" Looking at the undershirt on the floor across the room, another sign the usually fastidious man is upset about something.

"I'm fine", he says grumpily, letting his underwear drop to the floor and rolling onto the bed.

Marion sets the tray onto her nightstand and presses the Pandora icon on her phone. The relaxing spa music fills the room immediately and he closes his eyes tight. She straddles him, squeezing a generous amount of Ben and Gerry into the palms of her hands, then slowly rubs her hands together to warm the oils. She presses her hands onto his back and he recoils from her touch.

"Relax - Ben. You're so tense", massaging the oils into his deltoids, slowly kneading the tight muscles. "You're really tight tonight", warming more oil onto her hands and gradually working her way to the trapezii. She skillfully rubs the back of his neck, shoulders, and down his shoulder blades; smiling when she feels him start to relax.

She drizzles the warm oil down his spine, gently massaging his lower back with the amount of pressure he likes; his breathing slows. She massages down the back of his strong thighs, down to his legs and feet. He moans.

"Turn over", and he turns onto his back.

Works every time she says to herself as she squeezes more oil into her hands. She slowly massages down his shoulders and his chest, making her way down to his taut stomach. She massages the external abdominal obliques, then rectus abdominis, smiling as he starts to harden. This part gets him every time she thinks as she works her way down to his thighs. She applies a bit more pressure to remove the knots. He is fully erect and she licks her lips, ready to take him into her mouth.

"What happened to the other condom?" He asks tightly.

"What?"

"Where's the other condom that was in the drawer? There were two in there the first night we were together and I damn sure haven't used it. I now have my own", fully deflated as he sits up in the bed staring at her in anger.

"What are you talking about?" She asks defensively, matching his tone.

"Don't pretend you don't know what the hell I'm talking about. Answer the damn question, Marion."

"I don't answer to you", she says defiantly, rolling off the bed and standing with a hand on her hip.

"Are you fucking somebody else? Because if you are then let me know so I can get tested."

"You bastard. Get out - get out of my house - now!"

"Gladly", pulling on his boxers and stomping toward the closet. Marion stomps into the living and angrily plops down onto the sofa. A few minutes later Ben comes from the bedroom fully dressed and red-faced.

"You have no right to ask me those kinds of questions, Dr. Grant."

He stops in his tracks because whenever she uses his title, and in that tone, he knows she is hurt, angry, and ready to fight. He runs a hand through his hair and lets out a heavy sigh.

"It's not like we have a real relationship anyway. You've been coming over here for the past three months and I don't know what the hell is going on between us. So you don't get to ask me those kinds of questions because I damn sure haven't asked you."

He sees the anger on her face and immediately feels like a fool. Of course she would want to know if they are in a committed relationship, hell, he wants to know.

"I'm not seeing anyone else – only you. I only want to be with you", he says solemnly.

She turns and squints at him, trying to see if there is sincerity in his eyes. And she smiles internally, thinking it only took him two months to look into the drawer to check if the condom was still there.

"Well what took you so long to say it?"

"Because I'm an idiot?" Smiling sheepishly.

"You certainly are - and you're not too swift either. I threw that condom away a long time ago, hoping you would notice it was gone", she giggles. "At least I know you're not snooping through my things."

"You sneak", he says, smiling as he walks over to the sofa.

"Well, I wasn't going to waste my time with you if you didn't care if I slept with other men."

"I don't want you seeing anyone else and I don't want to see anyone else", gazing into her eyes without pretense.

"You better not - now get back in bed and let me finish my work."

"Kiss me first", he says, pulling her close. She opens her mouth, moaning at the feel of his warm tongue.

XXX

Fitz walks into the bedroom after finishing the nightly reading Goodnight Moon and placing Jolie in her crib. He tosses his watch onto the nightstand and pulls at the tightly tucked bedcovers and sighs with frustration because Hildie has begun to tightly tuck the sheets again. Finally pulling back the sheets and covers, he climbs into bed and checks his schedule for tomorrow.

"And by the way, Liv - I found your message under the piles of folders on my desk. Victoria had given it to me after all."

Olivia finishes rinsing out her mouth, sticks her head out of the bathroom door, and looks at her husband.

"What?"

"I said I found your message to pick up Jo's prescription."

"Did you find it or did Victoria find it?"

"What do you mean?" Looking at her bemused.

"Did you find my message or did your assistant find it?"

He furrows his brow, thinking about the question. He has been so busy lately sometimes he does not know whether he is coming or going. So much is competing for his attention.

"Well – I guess Victoria found it on my desk."

"Found it on your desk? Fitz, you never misplace anything."

"Liv, you saw what my desk looks like. Apparently I didn't notice the note before I left the office. I must've set a pile of documents on top of it."

"That's my point, you never used to have piles of anything. We're going to get your desk cleaned up after this budget thing is over. By the way, a good assistant would've made sure you had such an important message about your child", sitting on the bed and pulling the body butter from the nightstand.

"Victoria is good at her job, Liv, giving his assistant the benefit of the doubt. "She's bought order to that office - just like Sandra did at Grant Enterprises. You know how things were before I hired Sandra. Victoria keeps that office running like a well-oiled machine. My first few weeks there were like a madhouse – people coming in and out without appointments. She changed all of that – for the most part."

"What do you mean for the most part?"

"Darius is the only person who seems to skate past her."

"I see."

"She keeps me on track – makes sure I'm where I'm supposed to be and that I have what I need."

"I guess that's what a competent assistant is supposed to do - not strategy."

"Come here, smartypants", pulling her around the waist and pinning her onto the bed. "I don't want to talk about work at home – I told you that. And definitely not in our bedroom. Okay?"

"Okay – okay - no talk of business in the bedroom", she says, wrapping her arms around his neck and kissing him deeply.

XXX

Fitz looks down at his watch and expels a long sigh, he is meeting with Darius, Johnston, and the activists shortly to hear their reactions to his school choice policy. He has worked hard to learn about the decades-old debate and is proud of the work he has done drafting a policy he believes is the best option to put forth to the Council. And, when he returns from California he will finalize his economic development policy and then maybe he can take a break.

Leaning back in his chair he smiles as the late morning sun warms his face, reminiscing about when he lived in California and the many outlandish situations he and his old Navy buddy Ty found themselves, usually after drinking way too much scotch. He shakes his head, amazed either one of them made it out of the Navy before being kicked out. His smile broadens as he recalls the weekend he and Olivia spent in Monterey, before they were married. Maybe he can convince her to go back with the girls after he submits his legislative agenda. The knock on the door shakes him from his reverie.

"Fitz, Mark is here to set up the lunch for your meeting", Victoria says, studying him closely and wondering why he is smiling.

"Thank you, Victoria. You can let him in now."

"Your guest should be arriving shortly."

"Thank you", glancing over at Mark as the young man sets up the food on the credenza. Fifteen minutes later Mark has placed all of the food and drinks on the credenza and is rolling the food cart from the office.

"All set, sir. Have a good day."

"You as well, Mark."

"I'll see you next week, Victoria", Mark says, smiling at the object of his desire.

"Take care, Mark", returning the young man's smiles as he pushes the cart into the hall. Her smile quickly disappears when she sees that ragtag crew get off the elevator and walk toward the reception area. She does not know why Fitz bothers with that motley bunch.

"Hey, Victoria – remember me?" Jason asks, grinning from ear to ear.

"I'm afraid not. And you are?"

"You know who we are", Marcella says, stepping forward and placing a hand on her hip. Victoria rolls her eyes, stands from her seat, and brushes the front of her dress.

"I'll let the Council President know someone is here to see him."

"I can't stand her", Marcella says.

"Don't worry about her – we have business to take care of today", Rashid says.

"Come on in gang", Fitz calls out, grinning broadly as he walks toward the office door.

"Hey, Mr. G.", Jason says, eyeing the food on the credenza.

"Hello, Mr. Grant", Marcella says, shaking her head. "It's good to see you."

"You as well, Marcella", giving the young woman a hug.

"And how are Mrs. Grant and your beautiful daughters doing?" Glancing over at Victoria.

"They're all doing fine. I'll let Liv know you asked about her." Victoria rolls her eyes. "Marcus – Rashid – it's so good to see you, too."

"It's good to see you as well, Mr. Grant", Marcus says as he extends a handshake.

"Mr. Grant", Rashid says flatly, accepting Fitz' handshake.

"This seems like old times", Fitz says, still smiling. "Victoria, please show Councilmen Moton and Johnston in when they arrive."

"Yes, sir", glancing around the office at the crowd before returning to her workstation.

"Why don't you all help yourselves to lunch, the councilmen should be here shortly."

"You don't have to tell me twice", Jason says, setting his copy of Fitz' school choice policy onto the conference table.

"Darius – you're just in time - we're just beginning to get lunch. You remember everyone"

Holding his rolled copy of the policy tightly in his hand, Darius nods grumpily as he looks around at the activists. His demeanor does not go unnoticed by Fitz.

"Johnston can't make it", he says flatly, as he nods at the young activists.

"Okay - let's eat then we can discuss the policy."

XXX

"Mr. Grant, this is not why we supported you", Rashid says, waving his hand at the document and desperately trying to control his anger. Jason looks at the two men as he bites into an oatmeal and raisin cookie. "Discontinuing funding for charter schools plays into the hands of the school district and the teachers' union."

"I'm not advocating for funding to be halted for charters, Rashid. I'm simply saying we need to put a moratorium on new charter schools until -"

"Until when?" Rashid snaps. "Public schools need to be disrupted. They're nothing more than failure factories. Traditional public schools have historically failed our children miserably and continue to do so. If they were successful, there wouldn't be a need for charter schools today. And now you want to put a moratorium on charters - take away a parent's right to choose - where to send their children?"

"I agree - traditional schools - for the most part - are not effective. But charter schools have their problems, too. There's little or no oversight on what they're doing and why they're doing it. They aren't getting the results they tout. Children aren't graduating at a faster rate than they are from traditional public schools. Some charter schools hire teachers who don't have bachelor degree or aren't certified. That's why I'm recommending a moratorium until we can study their effectiveness", Fitz explains.

"Our children don't have time to wait for another damn study", Rashid shouts, banging his fist on the table, causing Marcella to jump. She knows how passionate Rashid is about the topic, that is why their organization agreed to support Mr. Grant's candidacy.

"We need good schools - no matter what you want to call them", Marcella finally interjects.

"This can't be personal, Rashid", Marcus says, trying to diffuse the situation. "It has to be all business."

"It is personal. These are our children who aren't getting educated, Marcus. Have you forgotten? "

Marcus nods in agreement.

"What we have in traditional schools is insufficient", Rashid continues. "We have to close the achievement gap - and fast. And, parents don't need any politician or administrator telling them where to send their children or what is best for their children. What happens to those who have already submitted an application to open a charter school?"

"As stated in the policy, applications currently in the pipeline will be considered."

"This is not acceptable", Rashid shouts, throwing the document onto the table and storming from the office.

Marcus follows Rashid and Marcella looks at Mr. Grant sympathetically before hurrying from the room to catch up with Rashid and Marcus.

"Take care, Mr. G", Jason says, grabbing a few cookies from the tray before running from the room.

Fitz runs his fingers through his hair in frustration. He certainly did not expect that reaction.

"For once I agree with that Rashid", Darius finally speaks. "This is nothing more than Republican drabble", Darius says angrily, shaking his rolled copy of the school choice policy in the air.

Startled by Darius' comment, Fitz stares at the fire-breathing man.

"The people of this city voted for you because they believed you would help to make a difference in their lives - in the lives of their children. And you do what – stab them in their backs?"

"Did you even read the damn thing?" Fitz shoots back, standing from his seat.

"When you get out in chambers and try to sell this, you better damn well be ready to explain to your constituents why their hope has turned his back on them."

"I haven't turned my back on anyone. I'm trying to do what's best for the children. I'm not just a legislator, Darius. I'm a parent – a father. I can empathize."

"No you can't", Darius snaps, causing Fitz to look at his friend in surprise. "You can't empathize with any of these people because you can't understand their circumstances. You can afford to send your children to whatever school you choose – and you do I might add. Most of the parents who actually live in this city don't have that luxury."

"Say what the hell is on your mind, councilman", Fitz barks back. The war is on.

"I always do", Darius stands, glaring back at the Council President. "You don't know these people – you have no idea who they are. Yes, you talked to them at a few town halls when you were campaigning, but you don't know the day-to-day challenges they face because they have to live in a crumbling city and send their children to dysfunctional schools. At the end of the day you get to go home to the nice suburbs and leave the stench of this city behind you."

"You don't know what the hell you're talking", taking a step toward the councilman.

"I know exactly what I'm talking about. You're disconnected from the city, which means you're disconnected from the people who put you in this big beautiful office."

"I don't have to explain a damn think to you, councilman, but I will tell I am not disconnected from anyone. I'm not disconnected from Mrs. Ramirez who stopped by his office because she simply wanted to talk to someone about getting her son into a different ESL class. I am not disconnected from Tamara Johnson who came here to talk about getting her son into a safe school so he could learn and become the scientist he has dreamed of becoming since he was five. And I'm not disconnected from Mr. Clearfield, who came here for help because his daughter is brilliant and so damned bored and can't sit still in class because she already knows what the hell they're teaching her. The damned teacher wants to put her on Ritalin. Can you fuckin' believe that? So, I know these people as you put it, and I talk to every last one of them when they stop by. Victoria knows to let them in if I'm available."

Darius rolls his eyes at the mention of the assistant's name.

"I don't have to be fuckin' destitute to care about those who are less fortunate than me. And I don't have to live in the city or send my children to a school here if I choose not to. Sending my child to a school in the city would not make a damn bit difference in the performance of the schools. Why the hell does it seem like everybody has choice except me?"

"So don't get on your high horse and judge me or my family. You need to ask yourself where the hell you were when Marla and Wilson were stealing money from the children. You live in the city—have been the chair of the Appropriations Committee for years. Why the hell didn't you know they were stealing from the children – from the city? Why the hell didn't you see what was going on?"

Victoria knocks on the door and quickly enters the office, closing the door behind her. "People can hear you two", she says in a hushed voice, shooting daggers at the councilman. The two men continue to glare at each other.

"Thank you, Victoria", Fitz says, modulating his voice as he walks over to his desk. "Everything is fine", and Darius rolls his eyes as the woman closes the door.

With chest heaving and sweat beading on his forehead, Darius throws his copy of the school choice plan onto the table and it lands next to Rashid's copy. Fitz chuckles mirthlessly to himself as he stares at his hard work thrown onto the conference table, thinking the Old and New Gs finally agree on something. Darius storms from the office and through the reception area. Victoria immediately jumps up from her seat and hurries into the office.

"Is everything all right, Fitz?" She asks when she sees him looking out the window with hands stuffed into his pockets. "Can I get you anything?"

"I need a minute", he says without turning around. Victoria stares at his back for a moment, before turning to leave.

"Close the door behind you Victoria", she nods, looking at him with concern.

Once the door is closed he slides open the desk drawer and pulls out the brown plastic bottle. He looks at the bottle and shakes his head. With hands shaking, he unscrews the top and shakes a pill into the palm of his hand. He looks at the pill then quickly pops into his mouth, downing it with the glass of water on the desk. Twelve minutes.

XXX

Olivia drags the new suitcase she bought for him from the top shelf and lets it drop to the floor. The handle feels like a hot iron, which jettisons her back to five months ago to that sunny day on the mountaintop. She slides to the floor, staring at the suitcase and the tears begin to stream down her face. She does not want to think about that day – about that time when she almost lost her family.

"I think I hit a record tonight - four readings", Fitz says with a lilt in his voice as he walks into the bedroom. He glances around the room then walks toward the closet where he finds his wife crying. "Hey - hey. What's the matter – what's wrong?" She shakes her head from side to side, wiping the tears from her face with flattened hands."Tell me what's wrong", he insists, sitting on the floor next to her. "Why are you crying?"

"It's that stupid suitcase", kicking the new suitcase she bought last week because his other case was destroyed in the accident.

"Is something wrong with it?" Looking at the case then back at her and trying to understand why she is so upset. She kicks the suitcase again, sending it flying across the floor, stopping in front of the shoe rack. "You have to tell me what's wrong so I can make it better", brushing her tear-stained cheek with his thumb.

"It's silly – I'm being silly", trying to stand to her feet. "I need to finish packing your things."

"Tell me", he insists, gently pressing her back to the floor and looking into her eyes. She shakes her head before confessing.

"That stupid suitcase - it just made me think about …."

"About what?" Brushing the hairs away from her face and staring at her with concern in his eyes.

"Your other suitcase – it was destroyed in the accident."

His eyes widen and he believes his heart might have stopped beating for a split second. He thought - no hoped - she was not still affected by what happened. But she is - he is - and the guilt he feels everyday deepens.

"Shall I stay home - not go tomorrow?" Wrapping his arm around her shoulders.

"No - no. Of course not. I just had a moment. Let's finished getting you packed", walking over to the suitcase and rolling it into the bedroom.

XXX

He could be anywhere and maybe he should be home with his wife and children. And yet here he is walking down the halls of the ultra-modern technology company in Silicon Valley because he needs the perspectives of some of top men in business, men who have started companies and grown them into empires. He needs the perspectives of business people outside of his city because he is not sure who he can trust back home.

"Well – well - well. Look who the cat dragged in", the tall brunette says in a playful tone, but her ice-cold blue eyes belie her cherry voice.

"Melody", he says flatly. She is the last person he wanted to see, but it was probably inevitable since she is Ty's business partner.

"It's been a while, Fitz. It's good to see you", smiling tightly as she sneaks a glance at his left hand. The bastard is still married.

"And you as well", giving her a polite, close-mouth smile.

"Life looks like it's been treating you well. I couldn't believe when I heard you were now into politics - a deputy or something like that", she says mockingly.

"City Council President", he corrects her with a smile.

"I see. So what brings you to California?"

"I have a meeting with Ty."

"Well that's apparent", she says bitingly, like she is his mother admonishing him for stating the obvious. He sighs internally, thanking the heavens he no longer has to deal with her shit.

"Gretchen, please let Mr. Granger know Fitzgerald Grant has arrived."

"Yes, Ms Davenport", the pretty young blonde receptionist replies as she reaches across the console and presses the extension for the company's CEO.

"Thank you, Gretchen", he says, flashing his phony smile, which causes Mellie to roll her eyes.

He is so damn polite, flashing that smile the same way he did the night he broke things off with her – the night he told her he was not ready to be in a committed relationship. The night he told her he was moving back to Washington to be closer to his family and start his business. She gave that bastard three years of her life and he left without looking back. To make matters worse, she heard he married some social worker only two years after being back home. She has not gotten over his rejection and wants to strangle him where he stands.

XXX

Darius wants to apologize for his behavior yesterday, he was out of order when he let his discontent with Fitz' school choice policy devolve into a personal attack on his friend's personal choices. Last night he thought long and hard about his reaction, and while he still believes halting the opening of new charter schools, temporary or otherwise, is not in the best interest of families, he was wrong to make the matter personal. He knows Fitzgerald Grant is a man of character and is only in politics to help others, not to line his pockets like those who came before him.

Darius walks down the marble hall toward the Council President suite of offices, breezing past Victoria's desk as usual. He grabs the office doorknob and is immediately stopped by the voice he as grown to detest.

"He's not in there", Victoria announces, continuing to type Fitz' edits for the school choice policy. Darius grips the knob tighter and closes his eyes.

"I'll come back later", he says grumpily, turning to leave the reception area.

"He won't be here then either", smiling to herself, realizing Fitz did not tell his mentor he was going out of town.

"So he's not in today?" Reluctantly looking at her.

"He's not in for the next two days", continuing to bang her red nails onto the keyboard.

"Two days? Where'd he go?"

"You mean you don't know?" Not bothering to look up from her typing.

"Don't play games with me, Victoria. Where the hell is he?"

"California", she says with a slight chuckle.

"California? For what?"

"He's meeting with a few CEOs of technology companies in Silicon Valley."

"Silicon Valley", Darius says half to himself, wondering why in the hell Fitz has gone to Silicon Valley. But more importantly, why the hell he knew nothing about it.

"I guess he doesn't consult you on everything after all", she laughs lightly, and Darius glares at her before storming from the reception area.

"And Darius", she calls out, now looking up from the monitor. "That shit you pulled yesterday - don't let it happen again. Don't upset him again", glaring at him with fire in her eyes.

Darius stops abruptly, slowly turns around, and looks at the woman in disgust. "Upset him? So you're fucking him now? You're such a –"

"A what, councilman. You're still a councilman - right - one of nine?" Looking at him with pity. "Besides, it's no longer your business who I fuck or don't fuck."

"He doesn't want you - he'll never want you. Do you really think would leave his wife for something like you?"

Unfazed by his faint insult, Victoria smiles deviously. "I'll be better for him than Olivia", she says with confidence, standing and balancing herself on the five-inch-heel stilettos.

"Then you're a bigger fool than I thought you were. I know Olivia Grant and you're no Olivia Grant. Do you think that man is going to leave his wife and children and do what – move you into that big house out in the suburbs?"

"You didn't think me the fool when you were crawling in my bed every chance you could sneak away from your wife. By the way, how's Yvonne and the children doing these days? Tell them I said hello when you get home."

"You keep my wife's name out of your mouth or -"

"Or what, Darius?" Walking around the desk and standing nose to nose with him. She is ready for war; she has had enough of his backhanded insults. "You're a little man, Darius – and you of all people know I don't have time for little men. You could have owned this city but you let Wilson blackmail you into dropping out of the mayoral race. You're pathetic", she says with venom dripping from her red lips.

"I might be pathetic – as you say – but what does that make you? Look at you – you've slept with almost every man in this city and what has it gotten you? You're still sitting behind a desk typing and ordering lunches." Her face hardens and she wants to claw out his eyes. He has hit a sensitive nerve.

"Name one quality that would make you a good wife or mother – for any man. Your time is running out, Victoria. Your looks are fading."

"Go to hell", she screams.

"Maybe so - but I'll see you when I get there. Good night, Ms Sanchez."

She watches her former lover stroll down the hall and step onto the elevator and she wants to cry. Darius Moton was supposed to be her ticket to a better life – to respectability – but he reneged on his promises when things got a little difficult. Darius was poised to be the next mayor of their city. He has the experience in Council, the intelligence, and he knows how to play the political game. But he also has a wife and children, which was only a minor inconvenience for her. After eight months of sneaking in and out of her apartment, they got sloppy and Wilson was there to capitalize on their indiscretions. Wilson presented Darius with photographs of them going in and out of her apartment at various hours of the day, and it was apparent to anyone with eyes they were having an affair.

For weeks Wilson held the sword over Darius' head, threatening to send the photographs to Yvonne and the media if he did not withdraw his name as a possible candidate for mayor. Victoria pleaded with him to call Wilson's bluff, telling him they could survive the scandal, that he could still win the election. But when it came time to choose - to show her what and who was important to him - he did not choose her. He was not willing to risk losing his reputation and his family. She was not worth it.

Once the speculations died down about why Wilson's possible opponent for mayor would suddenly take his name out of the running , Darius wanted to resume the relationship, but he also wanted to keep her in the shadows. Victoria was unwilling to play that game again, especially since there was no prize to be had. Darius Moton would never be mayor. He would always be just another member of the City Council, and that was not good enough for her. Victoria reaches into her designer bag and pulls out her compact, sighing as she examines her reflection in the mirror. She is so tired of starting over.

XXX

"Fitzgerald Grant", Ty Granger, his old Navy buddy calls out when he swings open the huge glass doors.

"Ty", Fitz smiles, walking over and giving his friend a hug. Ty has always liked calling him by his full name. He said the name sounds like it belongs to someone who comes from old money.

"I see you and Mellie are catching up", looking back and forth between the former couple.

"No catching up – just the perfunctory salutation usually exchanged by mere strangers", Mellie says tersely before stomping off down the hall.

"Come on in, Fitzgerald", Ty booms, ushering his friend and attorney into the office. "Can I get you some of that expensive scotch you like?" Walking over to the full bar situated to the right of the massive desk.

"Much too early for me", waving off Ty's offer as he sits into the chair and crosses his legs, smiling reflectively at the beautiful view. He really enjoyed living in California.

"Too early? When the hell was it ever too early for you to drink?" Ty asks in disbelief as he pours himself a hefty drink before settling behind the desk.

"My life is different now, Ty."

"Bullshit. You never saw a thousand dollar bottle of scotch you didn't like", taking a sip of the smooth, amber-colored liquor then setting the heavy crystal-cut tumbler onto the glass desk. "You're the one who got me hooked on this shit. I couldn't stand it when you gave me my first taste."

"It is an acquired taste", Fitz says, grinning at his friend and thinking about the time his father gave him, John, and Bennie their first drink of scotch on one of their fishing trips. He hated the taste back then.

"You're damn right. I had to guzzle down a lot of it before I started to appreciate the subtle smokiness - pure velvet. Now, I can't drink anything else", holding up the glass admiringly as the sunlight reflects on its surface. "I see you're still married", glancing at the platinum wedding band on Fitz' left hand. "I don't know how you do it - one woman - forever."

"I found the right one", he smiles.

"Well you sure broke Mellie's heart. I don't know what the hell you did - but you ruined that woman for any other man. I never stood a chance after you - and lord knows I tried", Ty laughs jocularly.

"That was long time ago, Ty – I have two children now." Ty stares at the seemingly happy man, nodding slowly as he takes another sip.

"You always said you wanted a lot of kids - but I never believed that shit."

Fitz smiles tightly.

"So you're a goddamn politician, too? Damn vultures - no offense", raising his hands in surrender.

"None taken", Fitz says, shaking his head, realizing how much he has missed his colorful friend.

"What the hell happened to you - what made you join the other side? Not that you haven't made a lot of damn money to quit this rat race. I helped with that by the way."

"I earned every damn penny. You're a tough client, Ty."

"You're damn right I am. By the way, I have my eyes on another small startup company. Nothing too serious yet – I want to see how persistent these guys are before I consider investing in their company. I want to see if they are going to be relentless - not give up when things get a little tough. There has to be a reason they want to be working on that company eight to 10 years into the future. If you look at the big tech companies, we all saw a problem we had to solve."

Ty walks over to the bar and pours another drink. Fitz smiles and shakes his head. Ty could always drink a lot of liquor, scotch or otherwise.

"Fitzgerald, I'm going to need your help if I decide to gobble them up."

"You'll have to talk to my business partner - Geoffrey Tynes. I told you I had to divorce myself from my business when I ran for office."

"You're missing out on a lot of excitement here, Fitzgerald. This place, Mountain View, Cupertino - there's a lot of innovating happening here. A lot of deals to be made. A lot of money to be made", Ty chuckles, leaning back and taking another sip of the expensive scotch.

Fitz is moved by his friend's exuberance about the innovation happening here. There is nothing quite that exciting happening back home. In fact, trying to accomplish just the basics in local government is depressing at times. There are so many legacy problems with the city he is not sure if he can make a difference.

"Don't stay out of the game too long, Fitzgerald. This part of the world changes very quickly. So, is this Geoffrey any good?"

"Damn good. I'll tell him to expect your call."

Ty nods, leans forward, and rests his forearms on the desk."

"So what can I do for you, my friend?"

"My city has a lot of problems, Ty. Businesses have been leaving steadily for the past 10 years. While there is some new development happening and gentrification – it's not enough to create the kind of jobs we need. I want to know what it would take for a company like yours to consider opening offices in my city. What can we do to attract companies like XyTech?"

"Fitz, Silicon Valley is not just about the location - it's more about a mindset. Sure, this part of California has been known as a hub of technology – going back to the 1930s. Hell - you know the Navy was doing some cool shit back then with military technology – aerospace stuff."

Fitz nods.

"It takes time to develop the mindset and the culture that Silicon Valley has worked decades to foster. And, it's especially hard when you have to constantly fight state and local governments who seem to be invested in keeping things the way they are - at the expense of growth."

"It certainly can be challenging trying to address the competing agendas of all the players", Fitz says solemnly.

"So, to fuel economic growth in your city – any city - you have to give investors, companies, and general citizens a reason to want to come there. Perhaps it's because of location or the opportunity to tap into existing research and talent already there. Whatever the reason - doing so will fuel economic growth. When a major company moves to an area it automatically contributes to its growth. Employees new to the area will need housing and new businesses will sprout up to serve all the new people moving into the area."

Fitz nods.

"Another key factor for businesses deciding whether to move into a city are the schools. Most schools in the major cities across this country are abysmal. Parents want their children to go to schools that are competitive and safe. And the politics of it all – well it drives businesses and familiies away instead of attracting them. To be honest, you guys – and gals – must be politically correct - can make it difficult for businesses to do business in your cities."

Fitz nods, fully understanding what Ty is saying.

"Being a politician is a tough job, Fitzgerald – a thankless job – especially if you're in it to make a difference and not fill your pockets. But - you have to decide if you can make a difference or if you're just wasting your time. Sometimes these officials are so entrenched in how things have been done for the last 50 years they cannot see the need for change – unfortunately until it's too late."

"This has been helpful, Ty. I appreciate you squeezing me in today. And - I really appreciate your perspective."

"Anytime", Ty says, walking around his desk and giving his friend a bear hug. "I'll send you my bill." The two men laugh as they walk from the office. "How about we get together for dinner tonight? You're flying out tomorrow—right?"

"I'm sorry, Ty - but I changed my flight. I had an earlier meeting so I'm going to get back home to my family tonight."

"Damn – you are so whipped. I must meet the woman who changed your ways."

"You're always welcomed in Church Falls."

"Okay, but the next time you're in town we're going to drink some scotch – lots and lots of scotch."

"Thanks again, Ty", shaking the man's hand and giving him a hug. "Take care, Gretchen", Fitz says as walks from the reception area.

"Have a good night, Mr. Grant."

XXX

"Mommy, where's daddy?" Cena asks sleepily, looking up at her mother as she climbs into the bed with Jolie to read the standard bedtime story.

"Daddy's in California, baby. Don't you remember he told you he would be in there for two days?"

"Oh", Cena says, snuggling closer to her mother.

Two readings later Cena and Jolie are fast asleep and Bowtie is lying in his bed in the hall. Olivia carefully climbs from the bed, sets the book onto the bookshelf, and then carries Jolie to the nursery. Bowtie cowers on his bed as Olivia passes. She pecks Jolie on her fat cheek, turns on the nightlight in the nursery, then walks down the hall to their bedroom. She looks at her watch and decides to take a shower before Fitz calls.

XXX

It has been a long day and all he wants is a hot shower and 10 hours of sleep, quickly punching in the code to disarm the security system. He is relieved Olivia did not forget to set the alarm before going to bed. He sets the suitcase on the floor by the table then hangs his coat in the closet. Carrying the bag filled with gifts, he quietly creeps up the staircase, stopping at Cena's bedroom to kiss her goodnight.

"Goodnight, Princess", he whispers in her ear and pecks her on the cheek."

"Goodnight, daddy", she says sleepily, turning over in the direction of her father's voice "You went to California?"

"I did.

"I wanna go to California", she says sleepily. He smiles and kisses her on the top of the head.

"Go back to sleep, sweetheart. We'll talk in the morning."

Cena nods, turns onto her side, and goes back to sleep. He pats Bowtie on the head when he leaves the room and walks down the hall to the nursery. Surveying the crib, he makes sure there are no toys or blankets in the bed. He kisses the sleeping baby on the cheek, turns out the night light, and then drags his weary body to down the hall to their bedroom.

He steps into the shower and adjusts the bank of knobs that control the flow of water, and no words are exchanged, none are needed. They smile at each other through the steam and she steps back, creating space for him, inviting him in. He leans in, pressing her against the glass shower wall, and runs his tongue over her full, slightly parted lips. A moan escapes from down deep and she grazes her fingernails through the wet hairs at the nape of his neck. He suckles her breast, and she presses his head closer, signaling him to suck harder.

She parts her legs, reaches down, and spread the other lips wide. She licks her lips. Breathing hard, he takes his hardness into his hand and slowly glides the head up and down, and they gasp from the sensation. Writhing with pleasure, she moves up and down, rubbing her clitoris on the stiff head, and he closes his eyes. The sensation is dizzying, it is always dizzying. Her breathing quickens. Draping an arm around his waist, she slides the other hand down to his sac and gently massages.

"Livvie", he exhales softly.

She wraps her wet hand around his hardness, gliding it up and down, and he starts to leak into her hand.

"Oh god, Livvie. It feels so good."

With a tilt of her head, she smirks slightly as she places her foot onto the bench, opening herself fully to him, the way he likes it. She runs her tongue over her lips, slides him inside, and he kisses her deeply. Completely connected, they move as one, with the fervor of two estranged lovers. Tonight is not about slow, intimate lovemaking. Tonight is about releasing the mental and physical stress that has been mounting over the last few weeks.

"It feels so good - baby. You feel so good", she moans as his hardness brushes her clitoris with each thrust. "Don't stop. Please - don't stop", clawing his back as he pumps the way he knows she likes it. "Right there. Just. Like. That."

"Cum for me, baby", his warm breath wafting over her ear.

The sensation is unbearable and a yelp escapes her throat that will surely waken Calvin and Gwendolyn. Bowtie ears perk up and he looks down the hall in the direction of the master suite. With legs wobbling, she tries to grab ahold of the slick, soapy walls. He holds her close. The thrusting does not stop. He is in ecstasy.

He sucks in a lung full of air and squeezes her tighter, her vibrating walls feel amazing - are driving him out of his mind. His face contorts from the pleasurable pain and his buttocks tighten, expelling a low growl as he releases deep inside. He contnues to grind, savoring the last of the sensation. His face relaxes and he rests his head on her shoulder, allowing the water to pulsate against his back and stream down his buttocks and legs. He takes her face between his hands and kisses her deeply, kissing every inch of her mouth and down her neck. Softening, he slowly slides out and rests his forehead on hers.

"I love you, Mrs. Grant - more than anything", and she smiles happily because her husband is back home.

"And I love you Fitzgerald Thomas Grant the Third - more than anything."

For the next few minutes they shower lazily, slowing trailing the soap-covered towels over each other's body.

XXX

"What are you doing home? I thought –"

"I missed my family - I missed you", kissing her on the you all right?"

"I'm fine – but I missed you. Cena missed you. She asked about you almost every hour."

"I bought her something special – Jolie too."

"Of course you did", snuggling closer.

"Do you remember the first time we went to California?"

"I do. I was so ready to dump you, mister", smiling in the dark at the memory.

"But you didn't."

"I didn't. You redeemed yourself. Did things go well in California?"

"They did, Ty was very helpful", kissing the top of her head.

"Thats good. Did you see any of your old girlfriends while you were in Cali?" She asks playfully.

"I saw Mellie", he says flatly.

"You what?" Trying to pull away from his embrace, but he tightens his hold on her.

"I'm not going to lie to you, Liv. I saw Mellie – you know she and Ty are partners."

"Well did you have dinner with her? Is she married? Does she have children?"

"No. I don't know. I don't know."

"What do you mean you don't know? Didn't you talk to her?"

"Briefly - while I was waiting for Ty."

"Well what did she say – what did you say?"

"Liv …"

"What did you say?" Sitting up and looking at him.

"I said I have a nosey wife and two beautiful children. Now lie back down."

"Do you miss California? You were there a long time while in the Navy."

"I don't miss it …"

"But …."

"Ty was going on and on about all the innovation about that's happening – about the opportunity. He made it sound exciting."

"So you miss it."

"Not necessarily. It's just so hard to get anything done in government."

"Do you regret running for office?"

"I don't regret it – not necessarily. I just get tired of the games. I guess I have to decide if I can make a difference or if I'm wasting my time."

She stares at his profile in the dark as he sleeps, wondering if something happened while he was in California.

XXX

It has been a while since they have been to church. In fact, they have not attended services at Triumph Tabernacle since Marla's homegoing service last December. So much has been happening in their lives, but this is Easter Sunday, the most important and oldest festival of the Christian Church. Today they celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The service has been underway for almost an hour and Jolie is becoming more agitated with each hymn. Her singing along with the choir and clapping like her mother and Nana has begun to grow old and she starts to squirm on her father's lap.

"Give her to me - I'll take her outside", Olivia says, reaching for Jolie.

"You stay - I'll take her out for a while", stopping Olivia from standing "Give me her bottle." Jolie cries grow louder as Fitz carries her from the sanctuary.

"Shh – shh", Fitz coos, trying to console his baby. Her face is flush red and she is pulling at her Easter bonnet. "Are you hot, Angel?" Sitting on one of the benches and removing the bonnet and unbuttoning the jacket that matches her dress. "Mommy always puts so many clothes on you", fanning her with the program, and Jolie smiles as if the air conditioner was turned on. Fitz blows over her face and she blows spit bubbles in return, laughing hysterically. In this moment he realizes how much Jolie looks like his baby sister, Nora.

"Fitz", the familiar voice says with a hint of hesitation.

"Hello, Darius", looking up from making faces with his daughter.

"Is she all right", nodding in the direction of the laughing baby.

"She's fine – just a little hot."

"Good – good", smiling at Jolie. "I owe you an apology", Darius begins slowly. "I was wrong – out of line. I had no right to say those things – make it personal. I hope you can forgive me."

"Darius, while I appreciate all the help you have given me over the past few months – helping me to get acclimated to Council - you must realize the final decision about what I choose to pursue legislatively is mine – no one else's. Although I will always consult others to gain additional perspectives - at the end of the day the final lies with me.

"I understand – and of course you're right. You have to put forth public policies you believe in."

"And Darius - while I value your friendship - I will not allow you or anyone else to question or criticize the choices I make for my family. It's none of your business where I choose to live or where I choose to send my children to school. That's for Olivia and me to decide - not you – not anyone else. My family – they're off limits to you – do you understand?" He does not blink. He does not smile. Darius needs to know he is serious.

"Of course – of course."

The two men shake hands and Jolie squeals, clapping her hands as if she understands new life has been breathed into a friendship.