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.

43. Chapter 43 Kidchella

AN: I'm glad many of you are fed up with Ms Sanchez and want her to get what's coming to her sooner rather than later. This means I'm depicting her correctly. She serves a purpose and won't be around a chapter longer than she is needed. Also, Mayor Wilson sure loves to get pictures on people: Marion and Bennie, Darius and Victoria. I wonder if he has more pictures. Liv only has a little scent of what Victoria is up to. Keep in mind, she's busy too.

Guest 1, it's interesting the level of disdain Darius has for Victoria. Some men act like that when the woman stops the affair. Fitz was right to ask Liv many chapters ago why Darius never ran for a higher office, now we know why. Manipulation and jealousy, not two attractive qualities of Marion's. Fitz wants to compartmentalize his work life and family life. The man doesn't even want to discuss business in the bedroom - goodness. Fitz intends to consult others but he won't be bullied into putting forth someone else's plans to council. Darius had an opportunity to be in charge and he blew it because of you know who. We'll see more Fitz and Calvin interactions in upcoming chapters. Guest 2, first, kudos to you for supporting those who are in a nursing home. I know someone who chooses to do the work and gets great joy from helping the seniors (others are in nursing homes too). Second, I was stunned to read you share my story with your clients – wow, that's amazing. What do they think of the story? Do you read the sexy parts to them? Might not be able to write another sexy scene knowing they will hear it. Sheesh. PM me if you like. sister1256, Victoria has been around several blocks, poor thing. She'd rather use her body than her mind to get what she wants. The Cali trip was important for many reasons, it shows us the kind of man Fitz was when he lived in Monterey and lays the foundation for upcoming events. Ty gave Fitz some good advice, which was wrapped in the story about the start-up company. The advice will spur Fitz to rethink his new career decision. Glad you enjoyed the chapter. Guest 3, Bennie is a good guy and empathizes with his sister to some degree. Glad you enjoyed the update.

Monica, it's called dramatic irony, when the reader (you) knows something the character (Fitz) doesn't know. Don't you just want to strangle the seemingly oblivious character and/or author? How many times have you screamed at your TV, don't open the door? Also, Victoria hasn't given Fitz any reason to think she is being deceptive. In fact, she has been a stellar employee, even learning about his needs and fulfilling them. Therefore, he has no reason to check her HR file or inquire around the office about her. (Fitz will use that attorney brain of his in the future.) So, Fitz only knows what he knows about Victoria and his interactions with her make sense. Nora did a lot of damage before she went away and no one is rolling out the red carpet for her. She needs to figure out who she is now that she is not sleeping with anyone, anywhere, and on any surface. Ty gave Fitz a lot of good advice, which was wrapped in the story about the start-up company. The advice will spur Fitz to think about his new career. Is he in it for the long term? Does he believe he can make a difference or is he wasting his time? And, what kinds of meetings are Gerry attending? Guest 4, a bazooka? Do they still make bazookas – I guess so. The word reminded of my sister using the term jitterbug recently and a co-worker using the term hooligans. I asked each what century they were from. Too funny. Here we go!

Chapter 43. Kidchella

Fitz closes his eyes, expelling a heavy sigh as he looks down at his watch, his meeting with Mayor Wilson is in 30 minutes and he is not looking forward to the interaction. In fact, he would rather do anything else than meet with the city's truculent executive. He is not one to shy away from conflict, after all, he has built a career and reputation on resolving conflicts, usually when a client has decided to acquire a smaller or failing company. Negotiating takeovers is often tricky and emotional, especially when it is hostile. So, he has mastered the art of keeping his emotions in check while reading the emotions of the person sitting on the other side of the negotiating table. He also knows how to say the right thing at the right time – and even better - he knows when to say nothing at all. The key is to never let things get too emotional, but sometimes that is out of his control, and he does not like when he is not in control. He is at a disadvantage when he is not in control.

More than once irate business owners have attacked him with abusive language and hurled threats when the reality sets in, usually toward the end of the negotiations, they are losing the company they poured heart and soul into for decades. But he always comports himself with calm and dignity - the attacks are not personal - it is just business. And, once the transaction is completed, he knows he will never have to interact with the former owner again. That is how things worked in his former world. However, things are much different in government – and in particular with the mayor. Their relationship cannot be transactional. In order to do the people's business, to try to turn around the city, they must have an ongoing and somewhat cordial legislative-executive relationship; the citizens expect nothing less of their government. So, today Fitz is willing to set aside their mutual hate - take the high ground so to speak - for the sake of the city.

"Victoria, I'm going up to five for my meeting with the mayor. I should be gone about 45 minutes", he says without emotion as he walks into the reception area.

"Good luck", she says, flashing him an encouraging yet sympathetic smile.

XXX

Mayor Wilson's assistant stops typing and looks up from the computer monitor when she hears the heavy footsteps walking down the marble hall. She groans silently when she sees the handsome council president coming toward the reception area. Her boss has once again put her in the uncomfortable position of having to lie for him. She has long grown weary of his childish antics.

"Council President Grant", Lauren says, greeting the man with her broadest smile. If only she were a younger woman she muses.

"Good morning, Lauren. I have a 10:15 with the mayor."

"Of course, sir. The mayor is still on a call and has asked me to have you wait until he is finished. May I get you something to drink while you wait?" Giving him an apologetic look.

"No thank you, Lauren. I'll just have a seat until the mayor is finished with his call."

"He shouldn't be too much longer, sir", Lauren says, sitting back in her seat and thinking she is getting too old for this shit. She is counting down the months to retirement.

Fitz returns a knowing smile, sits onto the sofa, crosses his legs, and scrolls through the latest pictures he posted on Instagram. He knows when a power move is being made, he has witnessed them many times. It goes like this, when on their turf, the adversary makes you wait, for about 15 minutes or so, even though you have a scheduled appointment. Then the adversary emerges from behind their office door with a smug look to let you know they have purposely kept you waiting. The adversary unwisely believes the old tactic gives them home-court advantage. However, they are always mistaken because they are unaware he has already made the decision about the meeting's desired outcome - before he ever steps foot into their office – before he even finished brushing his teeth that morning. The only advantage either party ever has during a negotiation is to know when to walk away, if it is an option.

Fifteen minutes later Lauren gives him another apologetic smile, Wilson still has not emerged from the office.

"Are you sure I can't get you anything council president –"

"Grant", Wilson says, standing in the doorway of his office giving him that home-court advantage look as he puffs on the ever-present cigar. Lauren frowns, thinking another reason to retire. She cannot stand the awful smell of that cigar smoke.

"Mr. Mayor", Fitz says flatly, forcing a tight smile as he stands and extends his hand.

Wilson eyes the hand with disdain before reluctantly accepting the handshake. Fitz thinks this is the second indicator that the meeting is not going to go well.

"Come in, Grant. Have a seat", Wilson says as he walks behind the desk and sits in the oversized leather chair. "So what brings you up to the fifth floor today, Grant?" Foregoing any small talk, and Fitz follows the man's lead.

"As you know we have to present our legislative and budgetary intents to council next week and - while we have not always gotten along - seen eye to eye on most things - I am hoping we can put aside our differences and work together - do what's best for the people of this city. I think it will help to build confidence in the citizenry if they see us acting as a united front."

Feeling smug, Wilson leans back in his chair, casually holding the burning cigar between his index and middle fingers, and lets out a maniacal laugh. Fitz is unperturbed.

"So is that what you think?" Wilson asks, blowing a thick stream of smoke in Fitz' direction. The question is rhetorical, so Fitz waits for the man to continue, to reveal his hand. "You think we should do what –walk into council chambers together next week holding hands? Is that what you mean by a united front?" His questions are laced with vitriol and contempt.

"I see I'm wasting my time here", Fitz says, beginning to stand. The meeting is taking considerably less time than he thought it would.

"I need council to pass that bill to privatize the police department, Grant. Once that is done then we can sing Kumbaya or anything else you want. Hell, I'll even dance a goddamn jig for you."

"This city is facing real problems - maybe bankruptcy - and all you're concerned about is outsourcing our police department. Give me a break."

"We all have problems, Grant."

"Well – it's not going to happen", Fitz says tersely and Wilson's face hardens.

"You might want to rethink that, Grant", he says in a threatening tone. Fitz looks at the man for a long while, shaking his head in disbelief.

"Well, I guess this meeting is over", Fitz says as he stands and walks toward the door.

"You don't want to cross me, Grant, ever", Wilson says angrily, standing abruptly from his chair.

"Have a good day, Mr. Mayor", Fitz says, walking from the office thinking some things never change.

XXX

An hour later Mayor Wilson is still sitting in his office fuming from his encounter with Fitzgerald Grant. Once again the self-righteous bastard has denied him what he needs; it is time to up the ante. He snatches the telephone from its base and dials the familiar extension.

"What do you have for me, Janice?" He asks gruffly and without salutation. "The trial is going to begin soon and Grant isn't willing to get in line. He's not budging on this police thing."

"I might just have what you need to get our new council president to see things your way, Mr. Mayor", Janice chuckles as she rests her elbows on the desk.

"Pray tell", Wilson says, his interest quickly piqued.

"Well you know our girl is in there - doing what comes natural to her – of course."

"By the way, it was brilliant of you to get her the job as Grant's assistant."

"Of course it was", Janice says in a self-congratulatory tone. "We know our girl is not the sharpest knife in the drawer – not a chess player. She doesn't know she should always be thinking four moves ahead. In fact, she has no idea how the game is truly played. Poor thing – she doesn't know she's just a pawn in a bigger game", Janice Roberson, the director of Human Resources says, smiling as she leans back in her chair fingering the delicate string of pearls around her neck. "But I must admit, she is definitely good at getting men into her bed", smiling, reflectively of the days when she was a younger but smarter version of Victoria.

"Thank God we can count on Victoria being Victoria - always mistaking men wanting to bang her for them wanting to make her a housewife. As they say, you can't make a housewife out of a whore", Wilson says, and they both expel a belly-laugh at the old saying, laughing so hard that tears flow from their eyes. "You would think she would've learned better from the Darius Moton debacle - another good play on your part, Janice", and she smiles proudly.

"People like Victoria never learn, Mr. Mayor. Ms Sanchez thinks she can screw her way to respectability. She thinks she is going to get her well-manicured claws into the wealthy Fitzgerald Grant – become acceptable in local society I suppose. As usual, she thinks a man is her ticket out. And as usual, she'll end up with nothing", shaking her head at the hopelessness of the young woman.

"She should take a page from your book, Janice. You don't rely on any man to get what you want - you make things happen for yourself.

"I partner with men to get what I want. Victoria, however, is uneducable - a fool. She thinks all she has to do is spread her magical thighs and the world will be delivered to her on a silver platter."

"How's that working for her?" Wilson says, and they both laugh out loud again.

"Can you believe she actually thinks she got that plum job as Grant's assistant on her own merit? Her supervisor was going to terminate her had I not intervened on her behalf – giving her a golden opportunity", Janice snickers.

Wilson clears his throat and raises the sweating glass to his lips. He needs to get back to the real purpose of his phone call. He has laughed enough at the expense of a woman for whom he is indifferent.

"But seriously, Janice, we have to stop Grant before this trial begins. My friends will take care of the judge if I can deliver them the police department. If we can pull this off I'm going to owe you big time", a tinge of nervousness returning to his voice.

Janice hears the anxiety in the voice of the usually cool and confident man and smiles because she has him just where she wants him. She has the mayor of this city in the palm of her hand and it feels great.

"Just be ready to send Daniel with his trusty camera when I call. I know how much you like pictures, Mr. Mayor."

"A picture is worth a thousand words."

"A picture can be whatever we want it to be, Mr. Mayor, even a Get out of Jail Free card,", Janice says without chuckle and Wilson nods in understanding. "Goodnight, Theodore", Janice says, smiling triumphantly as she returns the phone to its base.

XXX

The city founding charter mandates the mayor and president of the city council shall submit their budgetary and legislative plans for the upcoming fiscal year at the first council meeting in the month of April. Today's read-outs are a formality, the real work takes place over the next three months when committees review and discuss the budget at public hearings. Those hearings will undoubtedly be contentious.

City council chambers is packed, brimming with citizens and the media, all awaiting the embattled mayor to arrive and address the council. Everyone is expecting a showdown of sorts because the mayor and council president's visceral dislike for each other is well known throughout the city. In fact, many quip that as long as Fitzgerald Grant is council president it is highly unlikely Wilson will be able to get a council hearing on a motion to praise sunlight.

Upstairs on the fifth floor, Mayor Wilson stands in his office gazing out the large window onto his city, thinking about how much has changed over the past year. Today is supposed to be nothing more than what the city's founding fathers intended it to be: a read-out of the mayor and council president's intentions, a dog and pony show. But with Grant in office and the indictment hanging over his head, he is not sure what to expect, a concern he never had when Marla was council president. Life was good back then he thinks, downing the remainder of the bourbon before stepping in front of the full-length mirror. He straightens his tie then grabs his portfolio from the desk. It is show time he thinks as he heads downstairs to the council chambers.

The council president and nine council members are seated on the raised dais waiting patiently for the mayor to arrive. Fitz frowns slightly thinking making people wait is neither fashionable nor a show of authority. The crowd is becoming restless and the bailiff, who is standing to the right of the dais with his thumbs stuck in his belt, glances up at the council president for a hint of what to do. The stenographer looks up when the crowd begins to shout. Mayor Wilson has arrived. The crowd goes wild, booing and hissing as Wilson walks down the aisle and takes his position at the podium, facing the dais. He ignores the disparaging noises as he slides his speech from the portfolio.

"Lock him up. Lock him up", the crowd yells.

"Order – order", Fitz yells, banging the gavel in an attempt to quiet the crowd. The crowd's displeasure is reduced to a low simmer, and Fitz nods to the mayor – his signal to begin the address.

"We ask that you increase funding for housing, increase resources that would lead to economic opportunities and job creation."

The crowd is unmoved by the mayor's words and resumes booing and shouting down the man as he tries to continue his speech. They have heard it all before. Wilson delivers the same speech every year and nothing ever changes.

"I said quiet or I will shut down this session", Fitz yells, banging the gavel repeatedly. He nods for Wilson to continue.

"And, we ask that you pass an ordinance to privatize our police force. This will save –"

"Lock him up. Lock him up."

"He's a crook. Put him under the jail."

After repeated attempts to quiet the raucous crowd, City Council President Fitzgerald Grant calls for a recess. Despite Fitz' call, Wilson continues his attempt to shout over the crowd. He eventually surrenders and is escorted from council chambers by his security detail.

XXX

"Council President Grant - Council President Grant", Shelby Sage yells as she runs down the hall trying to catch up with the man before he enters his office.

Red-faced with anger, Fitz turns and glares at the intrepid reporter.

"Council President Grant", Shelby repeats, somewhat out of breath when she finally catches up to him. "Things got pretty heated in council this morning. Tell our viewers your reaction to your first budget and legislative read-out", she says quickly, pushing the microphone close to his face.

"We will do whatever is necessary to have a secure environment to ensure the mayor is allowed to deliver his budget address. While I understand some people might not feel comfortable with the message or the messenger - we will have a secure council for all. Security will be increased for future council sessions", he says before turning and walking away. Shelby looks at her cameraman and signals she is ready to deliver her report.

"Well, you heard it from the council president - the mayor will be safe and there will be increased police security at future council sessions. Now back to you at the studio, Dave."

XXX

Returning to their bedroom after performing the nightly ritual of reading the girls and Bowtie's favorite bedtime story, Fitz flops onto the bed and Olivia stops rubbing the cream onto her arm and looks over her shoulder at her husband.

"You're energetic tonight."

"Phase one is over. Wilson and I submitted our plans to the Council today. I thought there was going to be a riot in chambers."

"I saw it all on TV", Olivia says, shaking her head. "Are you really going to add more police security at the council sessions?"

"The man had to finish his address in a ballroom, Liv. Hell, I had deliver my agenda in that awful room. I'm no fan of Wilson, but interrupting government meetings is not acceptable. Bad actors should not disrupt a formal government process."

"First Amendment, babe."

"Let's talk", he says, ignoring her comment.

"I thought that's what we were doing", she says flippantly and he grabs her around the waist and pins her onto the bed. She giggles and kicks her legs wildly, pretending to try and escape his grasp. He kisses her deeply, stopping her movements, and she moans, grazing her fingernails through the fine hairs at the nape of his neck. She is getting lost in the moment.

"I want to know why you're not happy", gazing into her passion-filled eyes.

"What - what makes you think I'm not happy?" She stumbles, not expecting the question and certainly not in the middle of a heated make-out session.

"Because you want to move - no longer want to live here. Is our home – our life - not enough for you any longer?"

"What?" Trying to wriggle from under him, but he continues to pin her down with his weight.

"You know that's all I've ever wanted – want - is for you to be happy. Do you regret marrying me?" A tinge of fear flash in his eyes. As a lawyer he knows never to ask a question if he does not know the answer.

"What - have you lost your mind? Where is this coming from?" She feels his forehead with the back of her hand. "Are you sick – is something wrong?"

"Your life would be so much easier -"

"What's this all about, Fitz? What's wrong?" He turns his face away from her. "Look at me – tell me what's wrong", caressing his face between her small hands. He sits up in the bed and runs his fingers through his hair. She sits up too, watching him perform his nervous habit.

"At church – when Cena was upset – about what Deon said …"

"Go on", furrowing her brow and studying his face closely.

"Cena didn't want to come to me. She seemed to be afraid of me – and that hurt."

"Babe, we discussed this. She was confused - you know Cee loves you to death. In fact - truth be told - Cena loves you more than me."

"That's not true."

"It is and you know it. But I'm okay with it. I get that she adores you - that I'm chopped liver - second fiddle."

"She just loves us differently, Liv –"

"Ah, so you admit you're Cena's favorite parent."

"It means we meet her emotional needs differently. So - do you have regrets?"

"Of course not. I couldn't imagine my life without you. Besides, I didn't have a choice", and he looks at her with furrowed brow.

"I fell ridiculously and madly in love with you. You stole my heart, babe – ruined me for anyone else." He pulls her close, inhales her scent, and kisses the top of her head. She snuggles close to him.

"Then why do you want to move?"

"I think the girls need a more diverse environment. We discussed this babe – before we got married – before we had children."

"So do you regret having children? You always knew I wanted lots children", and she winces because he has unknowingly touched her sensitive spot. "And, I wanted to have children with you and didn't give a damn what they looked like."

"I'm saying no such thing", she pushes back. "I'm just saying we have to decide how to raise our children in a society fixated on race. Even though race is a social construct we have to prepare them for the kinds of challenges they're going to face because of who they are – who we are - we can't overlook that reality. They're getting older - we have to force the conversation."

"I don't give a damn what other people think, Liv", he says, beginning to get upset because she cares too much about other people's opinions.

"Well you should", she shoots back, pulling from his embrace. "Because our children are going to care. They're not adults - they're not going to understand why people look at them differently - treat them differently."

"I can't control what other people do or think", he says angrily.

"Babe, we have a responsibility to do our best to raise healthy and whole children - putting your head in the sand changes nothing."

"I'm not putting my head in the sand."

"Our children are a mix of you and me and many in our society will always look at them with a questioning eye - so we have to help shape their perceptions of who they are – their identity - how they see the world - and how the world sees them. Being geographically isolated - they only see one kind of truth."

He exhales in frustration.

"We have to set Cee and Jo up to see other truths – other people – other cultures - and not just on Sunday. And certainly not just Deon."

With face set hard, he listens intently.

"I want our girls to have their own voice. I want them to be prepared, Fitz. On the home turf being biracial is not unique to Cena, but she won't she be in our home forever – neither of them will. They'll experience the world and I want them to be ready."

"So are you saying you want to toughen up Cena – make her have grit? Because I want her to stay a little girl as long as possible."

"It's not that I want her to have grit or make her tough - I want her to see the differences this world has to offer and be okay with who she is."

"I need more time to think about this", he says, rolling onto to his side of the bed. She looks at him in disbelief as he turns off his lamp. She cannot believe he has ended the discussion.

XXX

As Fitz waits in the restaurant for John, he scrolls through his Instagram account smiling at the latest pictures he posted of the girls. They are his pride and joy and he cannot imagine his life without them.

"Sorry, I'm late brother, my meeting went longer than expected. Then Abigail called when I was leaving the office asking me to stop at the market on the way home tonight and bring home pepperoni. These damn cravings are killing me", he says, scanning the menu trying to decide what he wants for lunch.

"How is Abigail doing these days?" Fitz asks.

"Mean as a rattle snake. I tell her every day she is not a pleasant mother-to-be", and Fitz gives his brother a weak smile. "So why are you buying me lunch today?"

"Liv wants to move – to the city", he says solemnly.

"I know – Abigail told me", and Fitz rolls his eyes wondering if anything is secret in this family. "What? You know they tell each other everything – almost everything anyway", John says, setting the menu on the table, hoping their waiter will see he is ready to order. "So what are you going to do? I told Abigail don't even think about moving to the city", lifting the glass of water to his lips.

"I have to think about what's best for my daughters, John. Liv wants them to be exposed to more diversity."

"Are you gentleman ready to order?" The young waitress asks.

"I'll have the double bacon cheeseburger, steak fries – make that a double order, and a chocolate malt", John says, handing the waitress his menu and Fitz looks at his brother curiously. "Don't give me that look – my wife is pregnant. I always gain 15 pounds when she's pregnant."

Fitz shakes his head and orders the tuna – medium rare.

"I can appreciate that. You know mom told me that Bennie told her that Liv had a hard time adjusting when her parents moved here. Church Falls certainly isn't the most diverse place on the planet", John says, tearing open a roll and slathering it with butter.

"I love Church Falls, John. It was wonderful growing up here. I want to raise my children here."

"It was wonderful for you", John says, stuffing the roll into his mouth. "Maybe you and Liv can compromise – find a place between Church Falls and the city. You have lots of options, bro. But remember, happy wife - happy life."

XXX

After sitting in the nursery for the past hour trying to console a teething Jolie, Olivia drags her tired body into the bedroom and starts to remove her earrings. She hopes she can get a few hours of sleep before Jolie starts up again. Fitz sets his phone onto the nightstand and tosses his eyeglasses next to it; he has been waiting for his wife.

"How is she doing?" Watching as she removes her earrings.

"She finally fell back to sleep. She is not a happy camper, babe."

"She'll be fine. We went through this with Cena. I'll sit with her if she wakes up again."

"Thank you, baby." He nods then jumps into what he really wants to discuss.

"Do you remember when we said we wouldn't let race define us – who we are?"

"Society defines us – judges us – all the time", she says tiredly, tossing her earrings onto the silver tray placed on the vanity table. She is not in the mood to debate with him tonight. She has a lot of work to do over the next few weeks and she is nowhere near completing anything. She has to finish her report for Fred, which is due at the end of next month. And, she also has to plan Jolie's birthday party and get the invitations in the mail by the end of next week. She is exhausted and time is running out.

"Then it doesn't matter where the hell we live – does it?" He says in frustration and the tears roll down her cheeks.

"Livvie", he says in a softer tone. "What's the matter?"

"I just want them to be okay – to not feel different all the time. Is that too much to ask?" Looking in the mirror at his reflection across the room.

"They are who they are, Olivia. We can't bounce them around just because you're worried about what other people think. That will only make them feel like something is wrong with them. What happens if we move to the city and you decide that isn't where they need to be?"

"That won't happen", she says, brushing away the tears. "I'm not romanticizing the city – I'm not. And, I know living there opens up a whole new set of problems that we don't have to deal with right now. The crime rate is much higher, space is limited, it's noisier and busier, there isn't a lot of green space, and people will still judge our family. I get all of that. I just don't think all those things outweigh the benefits the girls will get from living there."

"I'm not a moron, Liv. I know the importance of exposing our children to cultural activities on both sides – and we do that. And, they certainly have enough books, dolls, pictures, and toys that are representative of all races and cultures. I just don't know if we have to move to the city - there have to be other options."

"It's like they live in a bubble, Fitz. We have to drive them to places so they can experience diversity rather being a part of a diverse environment. I'm going to take a shower", she says tiredly as she walks into the bathroom.

XXX

While Fitz waits for Olivia to finish her shower, he thinks about what she said about exposing the girls to a more diverse environment. He also thinks about what John said at lunch, but he cannot shake the nagging feeling that they will be giving up so much if they move from Church Falls.

"Penny for your thoughts", she says as she pulls the plush Egyptian cotton towel from around her head, letting the wet curls fall to her shoulders.

"I love your hair like that", he says with a smile.

"I know, babe - you tell me that all the time. I've been thinking about cutting it."

"Maybe a trim – not a cut", he says, admiring her body as she slips on the short nightgown. "Are you feeling better?"

"I'm fine. I guess I'm just a little tired – so much is going on", and he nods.

"You know I get that it's important for the girls to be in a more culturally rich community – right?"

"But", she says, pulling the jar of cream from her nightstand. She really just wants to go to sleep.

"It just seems so sudden."

"Sudden? We've only been discussing it for the last three months."

"No, we haven't. You raised the idea at the lake house - I wouldn't call that discussing it." She sighs because she knows when he is being precise it means he is nowhere near to being onboard with the idea.

"Well let's discuss it now. What concerns you about moving to the city?"

"I like it out here, Liv. This is where I was born and raised. I moved back to Church Falls to be near my family and to start my business. I want Cena and Jo to have an experience similar to mine. I told you – I thought we would raise our children in this house - grow old here."

She nods for him to continue.

"After being in the hustle and bustle of the city all day - it's kind of nice to come back home where things are a bit more quiet – slower."

"I see. What else?"

"My family lives out here. My parents, John and Abby …"

"What else?"

"What do you mean what else? Does there have to be more?"

"Church Falls is a lovely place, babe, and almost anyone would be happy to raise a family here. But it lacks so much - in fact - it can feel isolating at times."

He frowns.

"And, I hardly think your parents are a reason to stay here. We don't know how things will turn out for them – if they're even going to get back together - stay together. As for John and Abby - well they can visit us in the city. I'm sure Abby would love that – and we can always visit them – visit everyone for that matter. It's not like we would be moving to another state or across the country. We'll be less than an hour away."

"It will be a big change."

"I know, but change can be a good thing, babe."

"Change isn't always a good thing, Olivia. Stability is important, too", he says as he rolls out of bed and walks over to the chair. "There's something to be said for continuity. We put a lot of heart and soul into this house over the past six years."

"Where are you going?" Watching him pull on a pair of sweatpants. "We're not finished taking about this."

"I'm going to get ice cream."

"Ice cream – you never eat ice cream this late at night."

"Change can be a good thing", he says as he walks from the room.

XXX

"Fitzgerald, I'm surprised to see you down here this time of night", watching his son-in-law make a beeline to the freezer.

"Hello, Calvin. I thought I would have a little ice cream before going to bed."

"I see", Calvin says, watching his son-in-law drop three hefty scoops of Rocky Road into the bowl and thinking his daughter has something to do with the man's sudden need for so much dairy.

Fitz returns the ice cream to the freezer and sits at the granite island, next to his father-in-law. And after a few minutes of silently sliding the smooth cream into his mouth, he finally reveals what is bothering him.

"Olivia wants to move."

"Ah", Calvin says nodding his head, now understanding why the man is down in the kitchen at this hour of the night eating an absurd amount of ice cream.

"To the city", he continues, dipping the spoon into the ice cream.

"To the city?" Calvin screeches, shaking his head with disapproval.

"I'm not sure I want to move, Calvin. I love it out here - I love our home", and Calvin nods. "It'll be a big change."

"So why does Livvia want to move?" Not liking that his daughter wants to be part of the city's gentrification movement.

"She says the girls need more diversity - and I get that …."

"But?"

"But I don't know if we have to move to the city to make that happen. Moving to the city is not the only way to expose Cena and Jo to broader groups of people and ideas."

"Well, it sounds like both of you want my granddaughters to have a more diverse social experience - at least that's a start. But the basic question I think you two might want to answer is what diversity means for each of you. If you both haven't defined your ideal of diversity then you're just shooting in the dark - talking past each other."

Fitz nods in agreement.

"After you have a shared understanding of what diversity means for both of you, then the question is how to make it happen. Can you make it happen here in Church Falls, in the city, or someplace else? The city is only one option - in my humble opinion."

Fitz nods as he scrapes the remnants of the melting cream from the bowl.

"Well I guess it's time for me to take my old bones to bed", Calvin says, standing and giving Fitz a couple of reassuring pats on the back before walking from the kitchen.

XXX

Olivia looks up from her tablet and eyes her husband as he enters the bedroom and throws himself onto the bed.

"You were downstairs a long time", removing her eyeglasses and setting them onto the tablet. She knew she was not going to get any sleep until they finished their discussion.

"I had three scoops", he says solemnly, and she nods, knowing what that means. He lay on his back with arms folded behind his head, thinking about what Calvin said.

"What does diversity mean to you?" He asks after a few minutes.

"What?"

"You want the girls to live in a diverse environment and you've told me why – and I agree with the why - but I don't know what that means for you - what it looks like for you." Without missing a beat she starts to describe the ideal environment for them.

"Well it looks like many things. It looks like us living in a more integrated neighborhood. It looks Cena and Jo going to a school that is more integrated and developing relationships with children from many different backgrounds. It looks like us going to the museums or walking with the girls to the park or to a local store for ice cream on hot summer nights. WE have to get to everything out here, babe."

"Give me more time to think about this – okay?"

"Okay", pecking him on the lips. Now she is wired up, unable to sleep. "I'm going to read for a while, babe."

He nods and turns off his lamp. Unable to fall asleep, he thinks about his wife's vision for their family. He also thinks John and Calvin are right, they have many options they can consider. They can move anywhere.

"Maybe we should move to California - Monterey?" He says suddenly, and she looks at him with surprise.

"What?" Startled by his voice because she thought he was asleep. He turns on his lamp and looks her with all seriousness. "You mean you want to move back to California - you never said anything", eyeing him suspiciously.

"I think we should put all options on the table – not limit ourselves to one location."

"But -

"You can't say but, Liv - you have to be open-minded", he says seriously. In fact, the more he talks about it the more he likes the idea of returning to Monterey.

"I was going to say but what about our jobs."

"What about them? We can work anywhere." She arches her eyebrow wondering if this is some sort of trick he is using to throw her off.

"The people elected you as their president of city council. Are you thinking about walking away from that?"

"I'm not sure", he says with all honesty.

"Not sure? What do you mean not sure? The people have put their hopes in you, Fitz. They're expecting you to help turn around the city. Besides, I just started at Bryson's. I can't walk away from that."

"Number one – this is about our family – what's best for the girls – right?"

She nods slowly, thinking about what he is saying.

"Two – you can do your work anywhere. I can even open an office for Grant Enterprises in Monterey."

"Babe – to be effective I have to be connected to the community we're going to serve. Bryson's commitment is to the people who live here – where he was born – not California."

"I'm just saying - we have options - and I want us to consider all of them before we make a decision", looking at her intently.

"Are you serious - I mean really serious?"

"I'm sure we could find a diverse community in Monterey - or somewhere nearby. Hell, we can even move to the east coast: New York, DC, Philly, or maybe Boston. I have friends in Boston. We should be open to exploring all possibilities."

Her mouth is hanging open because she had not considered moving from Washington State.

"Just think about it - goodnight", kissing her on the lips and turning off his lamp again.

Stunned by the turn of events, she looks at the back of his head trying to figure out what just happened.

XXX

Olivia holds Jolie on her lap as the baby gnaws on the frozen teething ring trying to provide her sore gums some degree of relief. She squints at her husband, eyeing his every move, as he walks over to the coffee maker and pours his first cup of the day. He is up to something she thinks. Last night, out of the blue, he raised the idea of moving to California - to Monterey. Admittedly, she did not specify what city they should move to, but all of their discussions indicated she was not talking about moving to another state. Sometimes she hates being married to lawyer.

"Daddy, my recital is soon", Cena says excitedly, as her father leans against the counter sipping his coffee.

"It is?" Winking at his wife while feigning surprise at his daughter's pronouncement. "When is it?" Cena looks over to her mother for help.

"April 27, baby – six o' clock." Cena looks back at her father and nods her head.

"I'll be there", tousling her hair as he takes his seat next to his wife.

"Miss Ebony say me and Asha have to practice a lot."

"Says", Gwendolyn corrects.

"Miss Ebony says me and Asha –"

"Asha and I", Gwendolyn corrects again.

"Miss Ebony says Asha and I have to practice a lot", Cena says quickly before her grandmother can correct her again.

"And who is Asha?" Calvin asks, finally looking up from reading the third and final article on gentrification in the city.

"She's my BFF, GranPop. She's in my dance class."

"And what is a BFF?"

"My best friend forever", Cena says adamantly.

"I see", Calvin replies with a nod.

"Well I can't wait to see you and Asha on stage, Cena", Gwendolyn says, the brass charms jingling on her bracelet as she sets the cup of tea onto the island top.

"You can meet her before the recital, mom. Asha is spending next weekend with us. She and Cee have to practice for the big event. It's really – really important", Olivia says playfully.

"Can Asha sleep in my room, mommy?" Looking at her mother with eagerness in her eyes.

"I think we should ask Asha where she wants to sleep – okay?"

"Okay. But Asha can play with Bowtie." Olivia rolls her eyes and Gwendolyn and Fitz give her a disapproving look, which she ignores as usual.

"Come on, Cena, Nana and I are going to drive you to school today", Calvin says, lifting the little girl from her seat.

"Yay", Cena squeals and Jolie claps her hands as she slobbers down her mother's arm.

XXX

Dinner has been eaten, the kitchen is clean, and now he gets to relax on the sofa with his wife and watch his girls and the family pet play on the floor. This is everything, he thinks, sliding his hand across the sofa and caressing his wife's hand. Olivia looks up from the tablet and smiles, and in that moment, he believes he has fallen in love with her all over again. He lifts her hand to his lips and they smile at each other. He wants her to be happy. He wants his family to be safe.

He smiles as Cena once again tries to teach her baby sister how to say the names of her collection of dolls from around the world. Jolie, who has a short attention span, laughs and claps happily before turning her attention to her favorite pastime, pulling Bowtie's nose. Fitz shakes his head, sympathizing with the poor mutt because he is also the victim of his daughter's nose pulling. He sighs, thinking his girls are getting bigger with each passing day, and that saddens him. He wants them to remain his little girls forever, which he knows is not realistic. Cena is going to be seven this year and Jolie will be one next month. He runs his fingers through his hair thinking how quickly time is flying. Soon, his innocent little girls will be packing up their most precious belongings and going off to college, and the thought of them moving away makes him misty-eyed. With the side of his index finger, he brushes away the tear threatening to fall from the corner of his eye. He sighs again, thinking Olivia is right. It is their responsibility as parents to prepare their daughters to take their place in the world.

"Do you still want to live down by the waterfront – in one of those new townhouses?"

Caught off guard by the question, she looks up from the tablet, where she has been reading the latest whitepapers posted on the Diatell website.

"I don't know, babe, it was just a thought", stuttering because she was not expecting the question. Last night he was talking about moving to California or to the east coast, now he is talking about townhouses by the waterfront.

"Let's spend Sunday in the city – see what the area is like."

"Are you saying?"

"I'm saying let's spend the day in the city. The Kidchella Festival is going on for the next few days - the girls will enjoy it."

"Kidchella – what's Kidchella?"

"It's a music and arts festival – kind of like Coachella in California – but for children. Apparently it's co-sponsored by the city's Recreation Department", handing her his tablet so she can look at the Kidchella website.

"Wow - this sounds like fun, babe", she says, reading about all of the activities at the festival. "They're going to have a youth arts zone, six children's music artists will perform on the main stage, and kiddie rides. They're even going to have food trucks – we only have to pack Jo's food. The girls are really going to enjoy this - I'm going to enjoy it."

XXX

As he climbs down from the truck, Fitz glances over at the legendary Tall Ship, which has been converted to restaurant. This is his point of reference for when they are ready to leave this evening.

"I'll get the stroller and Jolie", he says, looking in the back seat of the truck at an excited Cena and a clueless Jolie. Olivia slides her sunglasses down over her eyes, climbs down from the truck, and opens the back door to unbuckle Cena's car seat.

It is a beautiful spring day and the pier is jam-packed with all kinds of families, who like them, are out for the day to enjoy the festival. Many littles ones are being pushed in strollers their by mother or father. A few older children are being carried on their father's shoulders, while others hold onto a parent's hand or walk no more than a few feet ahead of them. Today is all about family.

A variety of vendors, whose tables line the pier's perimeter, sell all sorts of jewelry, artwork, clothing, and tchotchkes supposedly from around the world. There are even tables set up to provide visitors information on housing and energy assistance, job opportunities, and yoga classes. Olivia makes a mental note to speak with Mona about setting up an information table next year to educate visitors about the importance of having access to clean water. She looks up at the sky and inhales deeply, filling her nostrils with the wonderful smells of the different ethnic foods intermingling in the air with the sweetness of cotton candy and funnel cake.

"This is what diversity smells like, babe", smiling at her husband as they stroll along the pier. "This is such a wonderful idea – a Coachella for kids", Olivia says, glancing at all of the activity happening around them.

"Without all the drugs", Fitz says sourly.

"Look – Cee – there's a Ferris wheel", Olivia says, pointing across the pier to the large circle of seats rocking back in forth in the air. Cena squeezes her father's hand.

"What's the matter, Princess?" Fitz asks, noticing his once excited daughter has become quiet.

"There are a lot of people, daddy", she says nervously.

"You'll be fine", picking her up and carrying her in his arms.

"Babe – they're going to have nighttime boat rides. We should do that later – before we leave." He simply nods, walking alongside his wife and carrying Cena.

"Would the pretty little girl like to have her face painted?" The young woman sitting at a table calls to Fitz. Fitz looks at Olivia and Cena stares at the young woman who has pink hair, matching pink lipstick, and extra-long eyelashes. She thinks the woman looks like one of her dolls.

"Would you like to have your face painted – Cee?" Olivia asks, smiling at her daughter, as Cena continues to stare at the strange-looking woman.

"What's your favorite color, pretty girl?" The face painter asks with a broad smile.

"Tell the nice lady your favorite color, Princess", Fitz says, smiling at his shy daughter.

"Red", she says softly, tightening her arm around her father's neck.

"Ah – a princess who likes red. How about I make you look like a princess - would you like that?"

Cena responds silently, nodding her head up and down.

"Okay – but your daddy will have to let you sit my chair. Will that be all right?"

Cena nods again and Fitz sets her onto the chair. Ten minutes later the face painter gives Cena a mirror so she can see the results of her artistry. Cena smiles when she sees the red tiara painted on her forehead, large white ball earrings painted on the sides of her face, and circles of pink paint and her cheeks.

"Do you like it, Princess?" Fitz asks, and Cena nods her head up and down. He bends to lift her from the chair."

"I wanna walk, daddy", and the adults look at each other and smile.

"How about we give Jo a yellow nose?" Olivia says, looking down a Jolie who is sitting up in the stroller taking in all of the sights.

"You got it. A yellow nose for the beautiful baby", the face painter says.

"Look at JoJo's nose, mommy", Cena says with laughter in her voice.

"Thank you", Fitz says, smiling at the face painter as he drops a five dollar bill into the tip box.

"Let's go over there", Olivia says, pointing in the direction of the stage where a group of musicians are singing. Fitz nods and Cena skips along beside her father, loosely holding his hand.

As the singers belt out their soulful tunes, Olivia and Cena dance to the music and Jolie bounces up and down in her father's arms as she claps off beat. After a half-hour of dancing and clapping to the unfamiliar songs, they make their way down the pier, stopping at various tables and browsing the vendors' wares.

.

"It's after 12, Liv – do you want to get lunch now?"

"Okay - I'm going to take Cee to the bathroom and change Jolie. We'll meet you at that table in a few minutes", pointing to the picnic table that faces the bay. You better hurry, babe, before someone else claims it", she chuckles as she turns and walks toward the restrooms. Fitz walks toward the picnic table facing the water, but stops when he sees a vendor selling tee shirts. Olivia loves collecting tee shirts.

"All kinds of tee shirts for you, man", the vendor says in his Jamaican accent. "Pick whatever you like and I give you a good deal: two for 20, three for 30, four for 40." Fritz frowns, thinking that does not sound like much of a deal.

"How about I'll take four of these for 35 dollars?" The vendor rubs his jaw with his calloused hand thinking the man is not as stupid as he looks.

"Okay – just for you – I give you a special deal - four for 35. Don't tell anyone else you got them so cheap."

"I'll take one in an adult's large and small, a child's small, and an infants."

"Good choice – good choice", the vendor says, smiling as he places the shirts into a plastic bag. Fitz hands the man 35 dollars then walks over to the picnic table. A few minutes later, Cena is running toward him excited as ever.

"Daddy – daddy. I saw a merry-go-round. Can we get on?"

"How about we get on after lunch?"

"Yay", Cena screams, jumping up and down with excitement.

"There's so much to choose from", Olivia says, looking around at the line of food trucks.

"May I have a hotdog, mommy?"

"Yes you may. What do you want, babe? I'll get the food while you stay here with the girls."

"I'll have one of those gyros and a diet cola."

"You got it. You can start feeding Jo", pulling the baby's special food from the cooler.

When Olivia returns with the food, Cena begins gobble her hotdog immediately, in anticipation of getting on the merry-go-round.

"Slow down, Cee", Olivia says. "We'll have to walk around awhile before getting on the rides. You don't want to get sick." Fitz rolls his eyes thinking how she never lets them swim for at least an hour after eating.

"Let's take pictures while our food digests", Fitz says, pointing toward the photo booth located across from the merry-go-round. "The line isn't too long yet."

"Okay", Olivia says, pushing the stroller in the direction of the photo booth.

"I haven't seen one of these in eons", Fitz says as they all pile into the compact booth. "This is nothing like the old coin-operated booths when I was a kid - this is high tech", adjusting Jolie on his lap while Cena climbs onto her mother's lap.

They all make silly facial gestures for the camera, laughing hysterically at their images displaying on the screen. A picture is captured with Jolie pulling her father's nose, which is one of her favorite things to do.

"Type in your email address, babe, so the pictures can be sent to your phone. We can make a photo album later."

"Can we get on the merry-go-round now?" Cena yells, looking up at her mother as they exit the photo booth.

"Let's do it."

"I want to get on the horse", Cena yells excitedly, pointing to the black horse with the long mane and wide brown eyes.

"Okay – but daddy will have to stand next to you."

"Wait, Princess, I have to buckle mommy and Jo in first."

After buckling Olivia and Cena into the carriage, he lifts Cena onto the horse and tightens the strap around her small waist. Her eyes and mouth stretch wide as the ride starts and the music begins to play.

"Hold on tight", Fitz says, standing next to his daughter with his arm draped protectively around her little waist. After a few minutes the ride stops.

"Again – daddy", Cena shouts, and he nods, waiting for the music to start. Five minutes later they are walking down the pier toward the Ferris wheel.

"This so much fun, babe. I'm glad you thought of this."

"It'll be getting dark soon", looking up at the sky.

"Let's get on the Ferris wheel, daddy", Cena yells, trying to pull her father in the direction of the lighted seats turning in the darkening sky. He groans when he sees the long line.

"Jo and I will wait here. You two can get in that line", Olivia says, grinning at the look on her husband's face.

While Fitz and Cena wait in the slow-moving line, Olivia pushes a sleeping Jolie around the immediate area, checking out the wares the vendors are selling. She buys a pair of earrings she really likes and a silver bangle before returning to the bench and waiting for Fitz and Cena. An hour later Fitz and Cena find her sitting on the bench across from the Ferris wheel.

"Did you like it, Cee?" Olivia asks her wide-eyed daughter.

"It was cool, mommy."

"We stood in line 45 minutes for a five-minute ride", Fitz says, none too thrilled.

"Look daddy", pointing to the little boy who is wearing a turban and eating a cloud of blue cotton candy. "May I have cotton candy?"

"She's going to be bouncing off the walls tonight", he says.

"Get it babe. She never gets to eat it."

As Fitz and Cena walk along the pier looking for the stand where cotton candy is sold, Cena squeals when she sees her BFF, quickly forgetting about the cotton candy.

"Asha", Cena screams, dropping her father's hand and taking off running in the direction of her friend.

"Cena", Fitz yells, quickly running after her. By the time he catches up with his daughter she and Asha are jumping up and down, happy to see each other. "Cena", Fitz says firmly. "Did I not say don't ever go away by yourself?"

"But I saw –"

"What did I say?" He says more firmly. He cannot risk anything happening to her again.

Close to tears, Cena drops her chin to her chest and Asha squeezes her hand in comfort. Cena is not sure if she is more hurt that her father interrupted her reunion with Asha or because he yelled at her. He bends down and in looks into the eyes that mirror his.

"Sweetheart, I know you're excited to see Asha, but you must stay with me and mommy at all times. We don't want you to get hurt or lost. Okay?" He says in a softer tone. Cena nods and he kisses her on the cheek.

"Hello, Kelly", Fitz says to Asha's mother. "It's good to see you again."

"Hello, Fitz. It's good to see you, too."

"It looks like you two have been here a while", Kelly says, smiling at Cena's painted face.

"Long enough to get on rides and eat way too much junk food. Hello, Asha."

"Hello", Asha says, looking up at the tall man as she holds Cena's hand.

"Olivia is sitting over on the bench with Jolie", motioning his head in the direction of his wife.

"I'll stop over for a minute and say hello. Come on, girls", Kelly says, and Cena looks up at her father and he nods his approval. The two little girls giggle as they skip over to where Olivia is sitting with Jolie.

"Kelly – it's so good to see you. It's been a while. Hello, Asha", Olivia says, smiling at the little girl who has the most beautiful big brown eyes she has ever seen.

"Hello", Asha says shyly, looking down at the ground and swinging Cena's hand back and forth. The two girls sit at the other end of the bench chatting incessantly while the adults catch up.

"It's good to see you too, Olivia. It's such a beautiful day I thought I would bring Asha to Kidchella. Do you come every year?"

"No – this is our first time and I love it - Cena loves it, too."

"It's always a fun day for the children – adults, too", Kelly says with a smile. "We're going to get in line so Asha can get on the Ferris wheel - again. It was good seeing you Olivia - Fitz. Come on Asha."

"Take care, Kelly", Fitz says. "Bye, Asha."

"It was good seeing you again, Kelly. Are we still on to have Asha spend next weekend with us? You know how important it is for them to practice for the recital", winking at Kelly who smiles in return.

"Yes. I'll leave her overnight bag at the dance school with Ebony. You'll pick them up, right?"

"I certainly will. Bye, Asha."

Asha waves good-bye to Cena and her parents before sliding her hand into her mother's hand. They are going to ride on the Ferris wheel again.

"I guess it time for us to go", Fitz says, looking around at the pier which is still packed with people.

"Babe, they're going to start the boat rides soon - let's stay a little longer."

"Liv, it's getting late - the girls are tired."

"Let's stay, daddy", Cena screams. "Please". He looks at her excited face then back at his wife's pouty face. The couple sitting on the bench next to them look up when they hear Cena call the man daddy.

"One ride – then we have to go home."

"Yay", Cena squeals, trying to pull her mother toward the boats. Jolie claps her hands because her big sister seems happy.

XXX

After the boat ride the Grants drag their tired bodies back to the parking lot to load up the truck and make their way home. Fitz carries Cena, whose head rests on her father's shoulder as she sleeps. Olivia pushes Jolie, who is sleeping spread-eagled in the stroller, her head drooping to one side. It has been a long day of junk food, lots of rides, walking, and loud music.

"No bath tonight. They are knocked out", Olivia says tiredly.

"We gotta get that paint off their faces. They can't go to bed like that."

"Kidchella – such a wonderful concept", she says, ignoring his comment. Of course she knows she has to wash their faces before putting them to bed.

"How about we come down one night and have dinner on that old ship?" He says as they walk across the parking lot in the direction of the truck.

"That sounds nice, babe. Don't forget to make reservations." He shakes his head because he still cannot figure out what happened to their Valentine's Day reservation. "We've been walking awhile, babe. I don't remember you parking this far past the ship."

"I parked facing the ship – my reference point", he says, continuing to walk.

"Well the ship is back there", looking over her shoulder at the Tall Ship.

"Where the hell is my truck?" He says, stopping and looking around the lot.

"Are you sure this is where you parked?"

"Of course I'm sure", adjusting Cena in his arms. She feels like dead weight. "My truck is gone", he says in disbelief.

"Gone?"

"Someone stole my truck."

"Are you sure?" She asks, glancing around the almost-empty parking lot.

"Dammit."

She looks at him disapprovingly but does not think this is the time to admonish him for using bad language in front of the children. He shifts Cena in one arm and pulls the phone from his pants pocket.

"Who are you calling?" She asks nervously.

"Fredericks – the police commissioner", he says angrily.

Ten minutes later a black SUV arrives at the parking lot and stops in front of the Tall Ship where the Grants are standing.

"Council President Grant – Mrs. Grant - my name is Officer Cooper. The commissioner sent me here to take you home. Your vehicle is missing, sir?"

"I parked it here when we arrived – now it's gone", he says angrily.

"Are you sure this is where you parked, sir? Many people who are unfamiliar with the area sometimes get confused where they park their vehicle, especially when they are anxious to partake in the festivities. Could it be parked elsewhere? Perhaps we should drive around the lot and look for it. It is a big parking lot."

"I know where I parked my truck", annoyed because the officer is talking to him like he is some idiot from out of town."

"I don't mean to upset you, sir. Let me have the make and model of the vehicle and license plate." Fitz gives the officer the information.

"And the color?"

"Red", shifting Cena in his arms. She seems to be getting heavier with each question.

"Red?" The officer exclaims, looking at Fitz curiously. "That's an odd color for that kind of truck. I didn't know they made it in red." Fitz feels like he is going to explode. He is not interested in discussing the color of his stolen truck and the officer sees his frustration.

"I'll submit a stolen vehicle report for you, sir. Hopefully we can get your truck back, but first let's get those sleepy little girls secure in the backseat."

"Thank you Officer Cooper", Olivia says, lifting Jolie from the stroller.

"I have car seats for both girls."

"Thank you officer, Fitz says, feeling like he is going to blow a gasket.

Officer Cooper tries to make small talk with the obviously upset council president as he drives the family home to the suburbs, but Fitz is none too interested in chatting. He was just getting used to driving that monster truck and was actually beginning to like it.

"I'm sorry to say, Mr. Grant, visitors from the suburbs are often victims of theft. You have to know the city - where to park and where not to park."

Olivia closes her eyes knowing Fitz will use tonight's incident as an excuse not to move into the city. She groans silently as she glances at his hardened face in the dark truck.

XXX

Olivia quickly washes the paint from a sleeping Cena's face and puts her to bed as Fitz washes Jolie's face and puts her into the crib. By the time she gets to their bedroom he has finished his shower and is stomping from the bathroom.

"It could've happened to anyone - anywhere, Fitz", trying to smooth things over.

"Not tonight, Olivia", angrily snatching the towel from around his waist and pulling on the pajama pants. He stomps over to the bed and tries to pull back the covers. "We're firing Hildie", he snarls. "I don't know why she's tucking the sheets like this again. And why do we have so many sheets, blankets, comforters, and pillows on this bed anyway? And what is this?" Holding up the cashmere throw and shaking it in her direction. "Why do we even need it on the bed?"

Olivia ignores his rant because they have always had the same bedding, he is just upset because his truck is missing. Finally pulling back the many layers of bedding, he climbs into bed and turns off his lamp. "And I'll be using your car tomorrow to get to work", he says grumpily, punching the pillow as he tries to get comfortable.

XXX

"Fitzgerald left early this morning - he seemed upset", Gwendolyn says as she peels the paper-thin skin from the ginger root.

"Mom, we had a wonderful day on the waterfront yesterday - unfortunately it didn't end well", Olivia says solemnly.

"Why not?" Gwendolyn asks, looking up from grating the peppery root onto the wooden cutting board.

"It was a really fun day, mom. We got on rides, ate way too much, and the girls even got their faces painted."

"It sounds like a good day. So why didn't it end well? You all got home pretty late last night", Gwendolyn says as she scrapes the grated ginger into the pot of simmering water.

"When we were ready to leave - we couldn't find Fitz' truck. It's missing."

"Missing? What do you mean missing?" Turning away from the stove and looking at her daughter.

"I'm afraid it might've be stolen, mom."

"Stolen?"

"Fitz had to call the police commissioner to get us a ride home. He was fuming last night. He's not in a much better mood this morning", looking down at her tablet.

"What has your attention on that tablet this morning, Livvia?" Gwendolyn asks as she pours the spicy liquid into her mug, adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and honey.

"I'm looking at the Diatell website. Donald gave me access to all of their research – more information than I could ever hope to obtain on my own."

"I see", Gwendolyn says, sitting next to her daughter at the granite island and blowing the surface of her morning tea. "This new job is going to keep you quite busy, Livvia."

"I know", Olivia says, still looking down at the tablet.

"Well, don't get too busy. Remember you have a husband – a family." Olivia frowns, sets the tablet onto the smooth granite top, and leans back in her seat. She knows when her mother has something on her mind.

"Livvia, you know your father and I have never interfered in your personal life. Once you became a teenager we no longer dictated what you should or should not do – except attend church services – of course. We allowed you the freedom to make your own choices and supported your decisions. We never wanted to limit your possibilities - we wanted you to be independent."

Olivia folds her arms across her chest, trying not to roll her eyes. She loves her mother dearly but the motherly advice is a little late.

"What are you saying, mom?" She says with annoyance in her voice.

"I'm just saying - this new job – well it's going to demand more of you – it won't be like running your foundation. It's going to take up a lot of your time. I just want you to make sure you don't forget to give your family - give Fitzgerald the attention he needs."

"Fitz encouraged me to take the job, mom. We discussed it", Olivia says defiantly.

"Of course he did. That man loves you and will do anything to make you happy. But as his wife - you need to do the same thing – don't forget about his needs - make him happy. A man needs that, baby."

XXX

Fitz stomps through the reception area, mumbles something unintelligible to his assistant as he passes her workstation, and then stomps into his office. Victoria frowns, wondering what has him so upset this early. She waits until she hears him finishes his phone call before entering the office to check on him. From what she can hear, it sounds like he is submitting an insurance claim.

"Thank you", he says before slamming the phone onto its base.

"Is everything all right, Fitz? Are you okay?" Looking at him with concern.

"I'm fine, Victoria. I – we - just had a tough night. We took the girls into the city – down to the waterfront – and my truck was stolen."

"What?"

"The police commissioner got us a ride home, but now I have to deal with the annoying insurance company."

"Well hopefully the police will find your truck. Can I get you anything?"

"If they do it will probably be on four cinder blocks in some damn alley." Victoria wants to laugh because he looks so adorable when he is upset.

"Just let me know if you need anything", she says, turning to leave the office.

Forty-five minutes later Police Commissioner Christopher Fredericks enters the council president's reception area and Victoria greets him with a pleasant smile.

"Good morning, Commissioner Fredericks", she says in a syrupy voice.

"Good morning - Ms Sanchez", the hard-nosed lawman says as he glances at the nameplate on her desk. "Is the council president in?"

"Yes - he is. I'll let him know you're here", she says, standing from her seat and straightening her tight dress before entering the office. "Police Commissioner Fredericks is here to see you, sir."

Fitz looks up from his document with surprise in his eyes, mentally preparing to receive the bad news about his truck. He guess he will have to go car shopping soon because he cannot drive Olivia's car every day.

"Thank you - send the commissioner in, please", he says, standing and sliding on his suit jacket.

"Council President Grant - good morning", the city's top cop says, tucking his hat under is left arm and extending his hand.

"Good morning Commissioner Fredericks", Fitz says, walking from behind the desk and shaking the man's hand. It's finally good to meet you."

"And you as well."

"Can I offer you something to drink?" Fitz asks.

"No -no", nothing for me."

"Have a seat - please", Fitz says, motioning a hand toward the chairs in front of the desk. The police commissioner nods, sits in one of the chairs, and sets his hat in the other chair. Fitz sits in his chair.

"Thank you for last night, commissioner. It was very generous of you to send one of your officers to drive my family and I home."

"Not a problem. We want to make sure our new council president and his family are safe when they come into our city."

"I sure won't forget it. I certainly wasn't expecting to have my truck stolen after a day in the city with my family", he says with righteous indignation, which causes the commissioner to shift uncomfortably in his chair.

"We found your vehicle, sir", the commissioner says, and Fitz' eyes widen with surprise.

"Where - is it damaged?" He asks anxiously, now sitting on the edge of his seat.

"It's not damaged, sir. In fact, it's being towed to your residence as we speak", and a broad smile spread across Fitz' face, relieved that his truck has been recovered.

"So - did a couple of kids take it for a joy ride?"

"Not quite, sir", and Fitz frowns, trying imagine what could have happened to his truck. "Sir, your truck was located at one of the city's impound lots - it was towed yesterday for being illegally parked at the pier. You were parked in a tow away zone, sir." Fitz' eyes widen in disbelief.

"What? No way. I made sure - I looked around."

"It happens often to those who aren't familiar with the city. The signs can be confusing."

Fitz continues to frown as he replays yesterday's timeline in his mind: he pulled into the lot, looked up at the Tall Ship, put Jolie into the stroller; hand he does not recall seeing any sort of parking signs.

"Well thank you commissioner - I owe you - big time", his face flush with embarrassment.

"No problem - just doing my job, sir. I wanted stop over and personally deliver the good news. Have a good day", the commissioner says as he stands to leave.

"Commissioner", Fitz calls out, stopping the man as he reaches the door. "Do you have a few minutes? I would like to discuss another matter with you."

"Of course, sir", turning and walking back to his seat.

"And call me, Fitz, please", the commissioner nods.

"And call me Chris", the commissioner says as he sits back into the chair and returns his hat to the other chair.

"Are you sure I can't get you something to drink: coffee, tea?" The commissioner waves his hand dismissively.

"Chris, I would like your opinion on outsourcing our police department. The mayor has introduced this in his budget – he says the cost savings will be significant." The commissioner grimaces.

"I take it you are not a proponent of privatizing our police department", Fitz asks, looking at the man's twisted face.

"Hardly. Fitz, municipalities all across this country are looking for ways to save money by outsourcing municipal services - from trash pick up to law enforcement."

Fitz nods with furrowed brow.

"But everyone in this city knows why the mayor wants to outsource our police department. He promised some of his wealthy donors he would return the favor of their support by handing over government-provided services to them. The police department would be the most lucrative. These people just want to make money, Fitz, they don't give a damn about the safety of the people."

Fitz nods.

"This is possibly the worse time in our city's history to think about privatizing our police department", Chris says emphatically.

"Why is that?" Fitz asks.

"Like every other major city and hamlet in this country – our city has been affected by the scourge of the opioid addiction." Fitz holds his breath.

"In the 70s, we had the heroin epidemic following the Vietnam War. Heroin ravaged the inner cities across this country during that time. The 80s brought the crack cocaine epidemic and the violence that came along with it. And the aughts brought the opioid epidemic. This epidemic dwarfs the others."

"What do you mean?" Fitz asks with interest.

"The opioid epidemic has a feeder system - legal prescription drugs. The misuse and abuse of prescription opioid painkillers is the problem - fuels the crisis. Prescription drugs are a critical public health challenge of our city – of our country. You should speak with Dr. Marion Harris, our Director of Public Health. Dr. Harris and I have had many discussions about this latest drug epidemic. We agree it has to be treated as a public health issue, diversion arrests are needed as well. So, privatizing our police department at this time is not what our city needs. We need a police force that cares about the people and not just profits."

"Chris, can you spend more time discussing this? I would like to include Dr. Harris in this conversation."

"Of course. I would do anything to stop Wilson from dismantling our police department."

XXX

Marion walks down the hall toward the council president's suite of office, thinking she has not been on this floor of City Hall in quite some time. She met with the former council president a few times in her office, but Marla preferred holding meetings at her favorite restaurant. When Victoria hears the sound of woman's heels on the marble floor, she looks and sees the Director of Public Health walking toward the reception area. Victoria sweeps her eyes over the woman, assessing her the way she assesses every woman she considers a possible competitor. Everything about the doctor screams high-end: the Chanel two-piece suit, the Hermes scarf wrapped loosely around her neck, the Salvatore Ferragamo pumps, and the black Fendi portfolio tucked under her arm. The doctor is a walking advertisement for high-end designers. Victoria frowns slightly, she knows that whole outfit cost the woman a bundle.

"Good morning, I'm Dr. Marion Harris. I have an appointment with the council president."

"Good morning", Victoria replies with a fake smile, turning to look at the scheduler again. "I don't seem to have you on the schedule, Dr. Harris", she says in a self- important tone.

"The council president called and asked me to stop over", Marion says, glaring at the pretentious woman.

"I see", Victoria says, standing from her seat and walking toward the office. Marion glances at the woman's outfit and thinks that is one of the tightest dresses she has ever seen anyone wear in the workplace. Perhaps she has a date after work.

"Director Harris is here, sir."

"Thank you, Victoria", Fitz says, walking from around the desk with a broad smile and his arms open wide. The police commissioner also stands when Marion enters the office. Victoria watches the interaction trying to figure out the relationship between Fitz and Dr. Harris. "It's good to see you again, Marion", greeting her with a hug and kiss on the cheek.

"It's good to see you, too, Fitz. It's been a while. How are Olivia and the girls?"

"They're doing fine. We had some excitement last night – but I'll tell you about the next time you and my brother are over for dinner. How's my brother – how's Bennie doing?"

"You know your brother, Fitz – busy as usual – putting in a lot of hours at the hospital."

"Have a seat", placing a hand low on her back and steering her over to the chairs."

"Chris", Marion says in surprise when she sees the police commissioner standing across the room. "It's so good to see you", walking over to her friend to give him a hug. "I had no idea you were going to be here."

"It's always good to see you, Marion", the commissioner says, pecking the woman on the cheek. Victoria stands in the doorway watching the scene unfold and wonders what is going on. Fitz did not tell her anything about this meeting. She does not like being left out of the loop.

"Victoria, can you please bring us a fresh pot of coffee. Would you like anything else, Marion?"

"Coffee is fine - thank you."

"Right away, sir."

"Marion, Chris was updating me on the opioid crisis in the city. I had no idea it had reached epidemic proportions."

"It's really bad, Fitz. We are losing three to five citizens a day to heroin overdose."

"Heroin – I thought we were talking about prescription painkillers."

"Fitz, seventy-five percent of heroin addicts today start with an opioid prescription like OxyContin", Marion says.

Fitz nods slowly.

"Many of these people start with a legal opioid painkiller – prescribed by their doctor. And when they no longer have access to these painkillers - can't get them legally or illegally through a doctor - they try to buy them on the streets illegally", Marion says.

"Fitz, it costs 75 bucks for one pill on the streets. It only costs five bucks to buy a bag of heroin", Chris chimes in and Fitz nods in understanding.

"We're seeing the change from people taking painkillers to them shooting up heroin. They're overdosing and dying in back alleys, in cars, and even in their homes. We have to cut that off at the root cause - this is our top priority. Our police department is working with law enforcement agencies across the state and country and we're making a dent - but we have a long way to go."

"For people who are dealing with serious chronic pain - we don't want to cut them off. But we do want to stop creating more addicts and stop having the kinds of death rates we see here in our city. We're seeing once stable neighborhoods wracked by this crisis. I see the death and destruction in these communities every day because of the opioids epidemic. This is an equal opportunity epidemic – afflicting all social classes", Marion says.

"Although funding is not my area of expertise, cutting off funding makes my job that much harder to combat this crisis. It's going to take a multidisciplinary approach to deal with this opioid epidemic: we have to arrest the dealers, go after the doctors who are illegally putting these drugs on the streets, and hold the pharmaceutical companies accountable", says Chris.

"We also have to make the insurance industry more accountable in the process - to allow greater access to treatment and less access to these opioid painkillers. People need guaranteed access to treatment, not incarceration", Marion says.

XXX

Today was bittersweet, his truck was returned in perfection condition; he still cannot believe he parked in a tow away zone. But what he learned about the opioid epidemic in the city is disturbing, and there is no way he will allow Wilson to sell off the police department to his political donors.

"Why does Hildie have to tuck the sheets so damn tight?" Fitz growls in frustration as he tugs at the bedding.

"Maybe she wants you to feel like you're still in the Navy, babe", Olivia says, smiling to herself because he is being ridiculous.

"Why the hell would I want that?" Finally yanking loose the bedding and climbing into bed.

"It was fortunate the fine police department was able to find your truck. You parked in a tow away zone, babe", changing the subject as she rubs the body butter onto her arm.

"I tell you there weren't any signs", he says with embarrassed frustration. "I'm going to submit an ordinance to council to make sure all public street signs are clearly marked and visible. Can you imagine if another family was stuck in that parking lot? How would they have gotten home?"

"Uber – Lyft - a taxi?"

"It would be an inconvenience, Olivia", he grumbles, turning off his lamp and pulling the covers over his shoulders. She looks over at him wondering what happened at the office today to put her husband in such a foul mood. He has been grumpy all evening.