AN: Denise, Yes, Victoria is an irritant. Haha. You'll find out more about the cleaning lady in this chapter. Monica, yes, Victoria keeps her desk immaculate. Remember, she sees clutter as a sign of one being out of control. It served her purpose not to clean Fitz' desk. In her mind she thinks this is a way for her to manage him. crabapplect, good point about the racial composition of the school. You'll read more about this later. Justbecauseican43, so glad you're enjoying the story. Guest1, I know it's weeks late, but so sorry about your patient. Hoped the chapter helped just a bit. Guest2, Jolie is on track for reaching her developmental milestones. She already has a few teeth, she's just getting more. Also, she's been standing awhile, holding onto the sofa for a month or so. Her growth has been subtly described throughout. Asha is black, remember her braids? Here we go! Tell me what you think.
Chapter 45. Breaking up is Hard to Do
The kitchen is abuzz with chatter and laughter and the air is filled with the wonderful smells of Hildie's fabulous cooking. Bacon sizzle in a skillet, vegetables sauté in another, and a second batch of cinnamon rolls bake in the oven. Hildie has outdone herself this morning, making Cena's favorite breakfast of pancakes with fruit and bacon, Mr. Grant's favorite cinnamon rolls, and Mrs. Grant's favorite omelet. The dance recital is tonight and Hildie is doing her part to help make this a special day for Cena — for all of the Grants really. Six months ago the devastating car crash cheated Cena out of the opportunity of dancing in her first recital, but this time will be different. Tonight she will be on stage dancing with all of the other children. Holding a strip of bacon in one hand and tearing off a piece with the other, Cena talks excitedly about her upcoming performance. She is more animated than usual this morning.
"Daddy, my dance recital is tonight", swinging her legs back and forth under the island.
"Don't talk with your mouth full, baby", Olivia says with a smile, happy that her daughter is happy.
"It is?" Fitz says, feigning ignorance as he winks at his wife.
"Yes, daddy. Miss Ebony say today is the big day", her eyes wide with excitement.
"Says", her grandmother corrects.
"Miss Ebony says today is the big day", Cena repeats with the same level of enthusiasm. "She says we have to be ready."
"Then I guess I better be there", Fitz says, filling his mug with coffee.
"Asha and I are ready", nodding her head up and down as she twists and turns in the chair.
"Break a leg, Cena", Calvin says, not looking up from reading the newspaper.
"GranPop, if I break a leg I won't be able to dance", looking innocently at her grandfather. With an arched brow, Calvin peers over the top of the broadsheet newspaper at his granddaughter and shakes his head. The other adults laugh out loud.
"Kids still say the darndest things", he says, resuming reading the latest installment on the opioid crisis that is plaguing the city.
"Fitzgerald, will Maura and Gerry be there tonight?" Gwendolyn asks, lazily stirring her morning ginger tea.
"Yes – Bennie, too", Fitz says as he stuffs a piece of cinnamon roll into his mouth. "John and Abigail won't. It seems like Abigail is having a difficult time with this pregnancy."
"I talked to Abby yesterday", Olivia says. "The morning sickness is worse this time." Gwendolyn shakes her head.
"Yay, Uncle Bennie's coming", Cena squeals and claps her hands. Jolie claps her hands, too, because she tries to emulate everything her big sister does.
"That's wonderful. I haven't seen Maura and Gerry in – well in forever", Gwendolyn says, bringing the mug to her lips.
"Will Nora?" Olivia whispers in her husband's ear as she sits next to him.
"No", Fitz says tersely, continuing to smile at Cena.
"Thank you, Hildie", Olivia says as the family helper sets the omelet in front of her. "This looks wonderful", smiling as she reaches for the fork.
"Finish eating, Princess, daddy's going to drive you to school today."
"You are?" Olivia says with surprise.
"I am. This is a special day and our Princess needs to save her energy for her big performance tonight."
"Yay, daddy's driving me to school, Nana."
"I heard, Cena. I heard", shaking her head in amusement. Fitz slips on his suit jacket then bends over so Cena can climb onto his back.
"Your chariot awaits. Hop on, Princess." Laughing raucously, Cena jumps onto her father's back and wraps her arms around his neck.
"Let me wash her hands, Fitz", grabbing the kitchen towel from the island and wiping the syrup and bacon grease from her daughter's sticky hands.
"Good-bye, wife", pecking Olivia on the lips. "Good-bye in-laws."
"Have a good day, Fitzgerald", Calvin says with a frown.
"Good-bye, messy baby", pecking Jolie on her food-covered lips and she immediately tries to grab his nose.
"Good-bye, Hildie. Wonderful breakfast as usual."
"Have a good day, Mr. Grant", smiling as she watches the playful man carry his daughter on his back.
"Cena, say good-bye, family."
"Good-bye, family", waving her hand like the princess in a parade.
"Don't forget her book bag, Fitz", Olivia calls out, pushing aside her plate and lifting the coffee mug to her lips.
"Got it", lifting Cena's book bag from the foyer table with his teeth.
"That man sure loves his children", Gwendolyn says, smiling adoringly.
"You picked well, Livvia. Fitzgerald is a good man", Calvin says, sliding a piece of cinnamon roll into his mouth as he continues reading the article.
XXX
Victoria glances up from the document she is typing when she hears the heels walking toward the reception area. She sweeps her eyes across the woman's outfit, Alexander McQueen. That ensemble cost $2750.00. She knows the price because she admired it while flipping through the pages of Elle magazine. At the time, she thought it was ridiculous the designer did not price the outfit at $2700 or $2800. Who cares about $50.00 when you can afford to spend that much money for a simple shift dress and matching bowtie blouse? She spends a small fortune on subscriptions to the top fashion magazines. Vogue, Elle, and Harper's Bazaar are her go-to sources to learn about the latest in high fashion. Unable to afford the high-end fashions in the magazines, she shops at discount stores and outlets trying to get the look she sees in the magazines. She supposes the doctor comes from a family of means because the city definitely does not pay anyone enough money to allow them to buy designer clothes, not even a doctor.
"Good morning, Victoria, I'm here to see the council president." Marion's green eyes stares at the women, daring her to ask if she has an appointment. Victoria's mouth twitch. She is tired of everyone who passes this way taking the liberty of calling her by her first name, but she respects Dr. Harris, and to be honest, she is somewhat intimidated by the women.
"Of course, Dr. Harris", displaying a tight smile as she stands from her seat. "I'll let the council president know you're here." She walks over to the office door and knocks twice before entering.
"Thank you, Victoria", Marion says as she follows the woman to the door. Another tight dress.
"Yes, Victoria", Fitz calls out without looking up from the document he is reading.
"Dr. Harris is here to see you, sir."
"Marion?" Standing quickly from his seat. "I wasn't expecting you", glancing at Victoria. She shrugs her shoulders.
"I'm sorry for barging in without an appointment, Fitz", Marion says, brushing past Victoria and stepping into the office.
"You don't need an appointment", walking from around the desk and giving her a hug and peck on the cheek. "Thank you, Victoria." Victoria nods with a smile and closes the door behind her. "Have a seat, Marion. Can I get you something to drink – coffee?"
"No – thank you, Fitz", waving a hand dismissively as she sits in one of the chairs facing the massive desk. "I won't be staying long." Fitz sits back into his chair and closes one of the document Darrin gave him.
"Fitz, my assistant told me that your researcher called looking for information on the city's opioid crisis."
"I asked Darrin to dig up as much information he could on the matter. I need to become more conversant on a topic that is affecting this city – hell – the whole damn country."
"Fitz, I always have the most recent reports and data. Just ask me if you ever need any information", she says with a smile.
"I didn't want to impose."
"It wouldn't be an imposition—quite the contrary. I'm happy you're taking an interest in this crisis."
"I can't believe what I've been reading, Marion. I had no idea."
"Fitz, UNODC, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, recently released its annual World Drug Report. The problem is only getting worse in this country. The U.S. consumes 90 percent of the world's opioids and we're only about five percent of the world's population. In 2014, 914,000 people aged 12 years or older reported using heroin— a 145 percent increase since 2007. And, the leading cause of death in this country is no longer car accidents — it's drugs."
"My God", Fitz says, running fingers through his hair as Marion rattles off the statistics.
"You'll find a copy of the report on this", handing him the flash drive.
"Thank you, Marion", stretching his hand across the desk to take the device. "I know how busy you are these days, but I certainly appreciate you bringing me the information", bouncing the device in his hand.
"If you ever need any information - don't hesitate to call. I'll get whatever you need." He smiles, thinking his little brother has found a good woman and he is happy for both of them.
"Everyone suffers from this scourge, Fitz, is touched by it in some way. But the children suffer the most. Some children have lost both parents to this crisis – becoming orphans at such young ages. These children must either be placed with a qualified relative or end up in the system until they are of legal age."
Appalled by what he is hearing, Fitz shakes his head, thinking about his two precious daughters. He cannot imagine ever living without them, or them ever having to live with strangers. He will do everything within his power to make sure that never happens.
"It's all so incredible."
"We're all battling one demon or another, Fitz." He crinkles his brow and thinks about his sister.
"Add hopelessness, lack of jobs, and education – well it's a recipe for disaster. But don't be fooled, this thing impacts every socio-economic class – every community."
"Is this correct? Are three to five people overdosing every day in the city?"
"Yes — 90 a day nationwide. We're losing generations, Fitz." He shakes his head again.
"And the overdoses are increasing because people are mixing heroin with fentanyl."
"Fentanyl?"
"Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is much more powerful than heroin. Heroin and fentanyl is a deadly combination", shaking her head. "The health care costs associated with this drug crisis are astronomical, Fitz. It's straining my department's resources." He nods with a frown.
"Well, I'll make sure the Council approves the increases you put in your budget for the next fiscal year."
"It's going to be needed. At least that's one area Wilson didn't cut from his budget. I guess he's wise enough to know the business community won't be happy having a city infested with drug addicts."
"This city will never reach its potential if its citizens are dying from drug overdoses", Fitz says, thinking about all of the problems the city has.
"So true. Well, I don't want to take up any more of your time", Marion says, standing from the chair. "I just wanted to give you that report."
"I'll walk out with you, Marion. I have to get to a meeting down on two."
As he slides on his suit jacket, Marion smiles, thinking although there is a slight resemblance between the two brothers, Ben and Fitz are so different.
"Ready", placing a hand low on her back and guiding her toward the door. "Wait, I can't leave without this" jogging back over to the desk to get a folder. "So, we'll see you tonight?"
"You most certainly will", Marion says as they walk into the reception area. "Your brother wouldn't miss his niece's recital for anything."
"Cena is so excited. She couldn't stop talking at breakfast this morning. To be honest – I think she's a little nervous", he says as he stops at Victoria's workstation. "Victoria, I'm heading down to my meeting with Councilman Rogers."
"Just a minute", springing up from her seat and hurrying around the desk. She turns down the collar on his jacket and adjusts his tie. "That's better", she says, stepping back and appraising his appearance. Marion eyes the woman and wonders what the hell is going on with Fitz and his assistant.
"I guess I'm ready now", he smiles, returning his hand to Marion's lower back as they walk from the reception area.
XXX
After Fitz exits the elevator on the second floor for his meeting, Marion thinks about the assistant's behavior as she rides down to the first floor. There is something about the woman that rubs her the wrong way. Deep in thought, Marion does not see her colleague, the Director of Business Development, when she steps off the elevator.
"Marion – Marion", Carlos Rivera calls, running to catch up with her.
"Hello, Carlos", she says, smiling politely.
"How are you? I haven't seen you around in a while. I missed you at the last staff meeting", smiling broadly.
"Meeting – what meeting?" Looking at the man curiously.
"Wilson called one of his surprise meetings last week. He's been more ornery than usual – ever since the calamitous budget address to the Council. That crowd really got to him. Perhaps it's best you weren't there."
"I see", Marion says, no longer listening to Carlos. Her mind is racing, trying to figure out if she missed the invitation for the staff meeting.
"I gotta go, Marion", Carlos says, jogging off to catch the elevator before the doors close.
"Take care, Carlos", Marion says half to herself as she looks down at the phone in her hand.
The accidental meeting with Carlos has been nagging Marion all day. She has missed a staff meeting with the mayor and that concerns her. She knows she is going to have hell to pay at the next meeting. Marion picks up her phone from the desk and scrolls through her inbox for the third time this afternoon. Nothing. She scrolls the trash and spam again. Nothing. She does not see a meeting invite from the mayor. Perhaps it was an oversight by his assistant, or maybe there is a problem with her email account. She will have I -T check her account tomorrow to make sure she is still set up to receive the mayor's emails.
XXX
When Ben hears the cork pop, he glances over at Marion and sighs as she fills the glass with wine. They have only been home from the recital for 15 minutes. He looks back down at the tablet when Marion takes a long swig of the cool white wine. All evening she has been haunted by the thought of missing the meeting, or worse, being excluded from the meeting. She picks up her phone and scrolls through the inbox – still nothing. She bites her bottom lip then tosses the phone onto the counter.
"Cena was so cute tonight. Fitz and Olivia ought to be proud", finally deciding to interact with her boyfriend.
"This was an important night for Cena", Ben says, still looking down at the tablet. Marion nods as she raises the glass to her lips.
"Ben?"
"Hmm?" Scrolling through another children's website trying to figure out what to buy Jolie for her birthday.
"What do you know about your brother's assistant?"
"Who—Fitz?" Looking up at her with furrowed brow.
"Victoria Sanchez", she clarifies.
"Why would I know anything about her? I met her once when I visited Fitz at his office. Why do you ask?"
"There's something about her - I just can't put my finger on it", resting the rim of the glass against her bottom lip. "I get a certain vibe whenever I'm around her."
"What kind of vibe?"
"I don't know – she just seems too familiar - attentive — to your brother."
"She is his assistant, Marion."
Marion frowns and sighs softly. Ben can be so dense sometimes. She raises the glass to her lips again, thinking there is something peculiar about the woman.
XXX
When the family returns home from the recital, Cena is still excited, dancing around the house and re-enacting the dance routine. The ice cream that Fitz insisted they get to celebrate Cena's performance certainly did not help. Hopefully, a nice warm bath before bed will help to relax her mind and body. As Fitz tries to read Goodnight Moon, Cena talks incessantly about the recital. She does not seem close to falling asleep. Jolie is fast asleep as usual. Perhaps a few sips of chamomile tea will do the trick, he thinks as he listens to his chatterbox daughter.
"Daddy, tonight was so much fun", Cena says excitedly, kicking her feet up and down in the bed. It was the best night ever. Miss Ebony said Asha and I were the best."
"You were the best – and I have the pictures to prove it", tapping her on the tip of the nose.
"Let me see, daddy, let me see", bouncing up and down. Fitz pulls the phone from his pocket and starts the video he took of her dancing on stage. She slides onto his lap to get a better view.
"You did a great job, Princess. We're all so proud of you." She smiles as she watches the video play.
"I was so nervous, daddy."
"I couldn't tell. You looked poised — elegant actually", smiling proudly at the screen.
"Really?"
"Really", wrapping his arm around his daughter and kissing the top of her head again. "We better finish reading the story — you have to get up early in the morning."
"Okay", curling into her father's side and listening to his voice read the familiar story. The sound of his voice vibrating in his chest begins to lull her to sleep.
"Daddy?" She says softly.
"Hmm?" Smiling down at his sleepy daughter. The long day is finally catching up with her.
"Can Asha go to my school?"
"Go to your school?" Surprised by the question, he lowers the book and looks down at his daughter. "Why do you want Asha to go to your school?" Cena shrugs her shoulders. "Use your words, Princess."
"She's my BFF", she says sleepily, and Fitz smiles at his little girl who is trying to be a big girl.
"Don't you have friends at your school?" Cena remains silent, wrapping her arm more tightly around his waist. "Hmm?" Brushing back her hair trying to coax her to answer.
"Not like Asha", she says reluctantly. He crinkles his brow and nods after a moment.
"And what are your friends like at your school?" With eyes closed, Cena shrugs her shoulders again. "I understand, sweetheart", he says softly, laying her onto the bed. "Go to sleep, Princess."
"Goodnight, daddy", Cena says, turning onto her side and hugging the pillow.
Fitz lifts Jolie from the bed and walks across the room to return the book to the shelf. He sits in the chair and Bowtie looks over at him curiously. For the next hour, he reflects on the many times over the years he held Cena in this chair. He thinks about her first night home from the hospital when he sat in the chair all night, holding her in his arms and marveling at the wonder he and Olivia created. He thinks about a few months ago when he sat in the chair consoling her because she was upset and did not want to go to physical therapy. He looks down at Jolie and smiles. She is blowing spit bubbles in her sleep. He watches both his daughters sleep and he knows he must always do what is best for them.
XXX
Preparing to settle down for her nightly review of Fitz' personal Instagram page, Victoria sets the glass of scotch onto the tiny table next to the sofa then climbs onto the seat cushions. She places a few of the decorative pillows behind her then leans back against the armrest. She heard Fitz and Dr. Harris talking about Cena's dance recital tonight and she wants to see the pictures. She flips open the tablet and taps the Instagram icon and smiles when his face appears. She slowly scrolls past the one picture of all the children dancing on the stage, and smiles because the rest of the pictures are only of Cena.
Victoria reaches behind her back and lifts the glass from the small table and brings it to her lips. She closes her eyes, savoring the taste of the smooth liquor. She has grown accustomed to the taste of scotch, in fact, she rather enjoys its smoky flavor. She continues scrolling through the pictures, bypassing those of Olivia and her parents, and stopping at those of Fitz' brother and Dr. Harris, who are smiling happily. She assumes the other older couple is Fitz' parents because the man looks like an older version of Fitz. She takes another sip and licks her lips, thinking she is going to enjoy being a member of her new family.
XXX
On her way to a meeting with the police commissioner, whose office is a few blocks away from City Hall, Marion sees thesuperintendent of schools turning the corner and walking quickly in her direction. She glances at her watch, she will have to be a few minutes late for her meeting with the commissioner.
"Chauncey – how are you – it's been a while", displaying her most cordial smile.
"Hello, Marion – it has been a while. How are you doing these days?"
"I'm well. A bit busy – as we all are", she sniggers.
"Yes, our mayor has us all burning the midnight oil these days. Frankly, I'm not sure how many more 12-hour days I can take." Marion frowns because she did not know Wilson had the team working overtime.
"So what does Wilson have you working on these days?" Probing for information.
"Why the budget of course. Now that he has gotten a peek at the Council President's agenda, he has us all scouring it to find weak points before the hearings start. I'm really going to need a vacation once this exercise is over."
"I see",trying her best not to let on that the mayor has not involved her in the work.
"Well, Marion, I must be going. I'll see you at the meeting." He says, turning to leave.
"Meeting – what meeting?" Chauncey turns and looks at her curiously. "I've been having problems with my phone – not receiving emails", smiling weakly.
"I see. Another staff meeting - and it starts in 10 minutes - I must hurry, I don't want to be on the receiving end of Your Honor's angry tirade this morning. I'll see you up there, Marion", Chauncey says as he hurries into City Hall.
Marion rushes back to her office and grabs the documents she thinks she will need to update the mayor on her department's activities, then she hurries down the hall toward the elevator. As she rides to the fifth floor, she sends the police commissioner a quick email letting him know she has another commitment and will reschedule their meeting. When Marion exits the elevator, she walks briskly down the hall toward the mayor's reception area, steeling herself to be admonished for being late. She nods and smiles nervously at the mayor's assistant as she hurries toward the office door.
"Dr. Harris – Dr. Harris", the woman calls out, trying to stop Marion from entering the office.
"I know I'm late – the invite wasn't on my calendar", Marion apologizes as she reaches for the doorknob.
"Dr. Harris", the assistant yells again as she stands from her seat. "You're not invited to this meeting." With brow crinkled, Marion turns and looks at the assistant until the words finally register in her mind.
"Not invited?"
"I'm sorry", the woman says apologetically.
"Oh - I see."
But she does not see. She does not understand why the mayor is suddenly excluding her from staff meetings. With downcast eyes, Marion slowly walks back into the hall and toward the elevator. The assistant watches the doctor and exhales a loud sigh and glances over at the office door. She shakes her head thinking she cannot wait until she retires from this madhouse.
Dazed and indescribably embarrassed, Marion returns to her office trying to make sense of what just happened. She now knows that she did not miss any meeting invite because they were never sent. She knows Wilson can be unpredictable and petulant, but she always holds out hope that they can work together to do what is in the best interest of the city. The longer Marion thinks about what Wilson is doing, the angrier she gets. She is a talented, board certified physician and she does not have to take this shit from him. Perhaps it is time to move on, find a job elsewhere. Although she loves her work as the city's top doctor and wants to help guide the city in defeating its public health challenges, she will not allow the mayor to humiliate and prevent her from doing her job. She looks down at her ringing phone and sighs – Ben is calling. She does not want to talk to him right now; she does not want to talk to anyone. She looks at her watch and stands from her seat. She has had enough of Wilson's games. She wants answers and she wants them now.
XXX
The mayor's assistant smiles to herself when she sees Dr. Harris stomping toward the reception area for the second time today. She hopes the good doctor gives that little troll what he deserves.
"Is he in?" Marion asks with a tinge of anger in her voice.
"I'll let him know you're here", the assistant says, gleefully swinging around in her chair and reaching for the phone. She knows the mayor does not like unexpected guests, but hell, she does not like a lot of the things he does. She hangs up the phone and smiles at the doctor. "You may go in, Dr. Harris."
"Thank you."
Wilson continues reading the document on his desk, not bothering to look up when he hears the door open and close. The game begins, again. Marion stands in the middle of the massive office waiting to be acknowledged, waiting to be offered a seat. She fights with herself not to once again feel like that little girl of long ago who waited so many times to be acknowledged. Wilson finally looks up from the papers, leans back in the chair, and puffs on the cigar.
"Are you working with me or against me, Dr. Harris?" He says he name as if it has left a bitter taste in his mouth. Perplexed by the mayor's question, Marion remains silent until she knows the source of the accusation disguised as a question.
"I told you – I told all of you – Grant is the enemy. Are you spying on me – taking secrets back to the enemy? Is that what your pillow talk is all about with Dr. Grant?" Marion's eyes widen, wondering how he found out about her and Ben. Her heart rate increases and her pulse quickens, but she tries to appear calm.
"Don't look surprised, doctor. I told you — I know everything damn thing that goes on in my city."
"And I told you - you don't get to question my personal life."
"Don't get on your high horse with me, Marion. Now answer my damn question — are you trading secrets with Grant?"
"You're excluding me for meetings, and that's not good for this city."
"You know what happens to spies and snitches don't you?" Standing from his seat and glaring at the defiant woman.
"You don't frighten me. I'm not afraid of your threats", turning and walking toward the door.
"I'm fighting for my freedom – my life – so you ought to be very afraid, Dr. Harris. If it weren't for this damn opioid thing, I would fire your ass on the spot."
Marion slams the door and hurries down the hall, hoping he did not notice she was shaking like a leaf. She is not sure how much longer she can take working for that monster. She needs a drink.
XXX
"Thanks for meeting me here, Liv. I had a packed schedule today and couldn't get away sooner."
"No problem, Ben. I was in the city today – working in the office", she says, walking over to the massive set of floor-to-ceiling windows. "Ben, your place looks absolutely wonderful. When did you do all of this?"
"A few weeks ago. Can I get you something to drink?"
"Just some sparkling water."
"All the credit goes to Marion — she really has an eye for decorating", Ben says as he walks into the kitchen. He peers in the refrigerator looking for the bottled water.
"Marion has wonderful taste", Olivia says, still admiring the view of the city.
"I think I spent a small fortune on everything", Ben calls out, as he fills the glass. "Do you need a new heart? I'm going to have to do a few more surgeries to pay for it all", he says jokingly.
"My heart is just fine – thank you very much", she calls back. "I've always loved your place — even without furniture. The views are to die for", still looking out the windows as Ben walks back into the room and sets the glass onto the cocktail table.
"I didn't think I needed this much furniture— definitely not these pillows – which I'm sure I will never use." He picks up one of the accent pillows from the sofa and tosses it across the room at her. Olivia tries to catch the pillow but it falls to the floor.
"I see you still can't catch", Ben laughs.
"I'm a runner not a softball player." They both laugh as she picks up the pillow and tosses it back at him. "I always loved the views from this room", turning back to the window and looking out at the skyline. "I'm glad you didn't put up any window treatments."
"That was Marion's idea as well", now standing next to her and looking out at the skyline. "The view is pretty nice on a clear day."
"I'm trying to convince your brother to move to the city", she says dreamily.
"You're kidding. Fitz will never go for that. He loves living in Church Falls too much."
"I know — but I think it's best for the girls."
"What do you mean?"
"Cee and Jo need to see different views of the world - experience different things to stretch their minds."
"Church Falls is too vanilla, huh?" He gently elbows her on the arm.
"You know that's not what I mean", walking over to the cocktail table and picking up the glass of sparkling water.
"I get it. Church Falls is a nice family town – but it is kind of limiting."
"You know what it was like for me when my parents moved here. I felt — well — so alone – like I didn't fit in. If it weren't for you …" She sits onto the sofa.
"I get it, Liv, I do. But my brother is such a traditionalist – in a Norman Rockwell kind of way", sitting next to her.
"Our family hardly qualifies for a Norman Rockwell painting, Ben."
"Well I'm sure you'll convince him."
"Why do you say it like that?" Sipping on the water.
"Because everyone knows how crazy Fitz is about you. He'll do anything for you."
"I want him to want this to, Ben", looking at him sincerely.
"Well - I'm sure you two will work it out. So how's the new job coming along?"
"Fan-tastic", she smiles brightly. "I've learned so much, Ben. With Bryson's philanthropy program we'll be able to help so many people –give them a chance in life."
"That's good. I know you're going to do a wonderful job."
"Thanks, Benster." She elbows him as they laugh at the old nickname. "But if I'm to be honest – I'm still a bit nervous about whether I can pull this off - if Bryson is going to be satisfied with my recommendations."
"You don't have a thing to worry about, Liv, Bryson is lucky to have you. You've always cared about the community – wanted to help people. You'll be fine", giving her hand an encouraging squeeze. "And if Bryson says otherwise, then I'll just have to go over there and remove his heart – without anesthesia", and they both laugh out loud again.
"So, why did you want me to stop by today?"
"I got the invitation for Jolie's birthday party. I can't believe she's going to be one already. Time is really flying."
"It is. Jo is even trying to walk – she just can't seem to get her feet to cooperate." They both laugh.
"So what should I get a little girl for her first birthday? I'm clueless about those things you know."
"No – no", she laughs. "You're not getting off the hook that easy. You did a great job picking out gifts for Cee over the years - you'll figure it out", lifting the glass to her lips.
"I've been searching online for ideas — but I'm still coming up short. Maybe I'll have Marion help me find a proper gift."
"So things are getting serious between you two?"
"I guess so", he says sheepishly. "I really like Marion."
"I'm happy for you, Ben. Marion is a good person. She's good for you — you're good for each other."
"I think so, too", he smiles happily.
"So you wanted me to stop by your beautifully decorated apartment just to ask me what to buy Jo for her birthday?"
"Not quite", pursing his lips and trying to figure out how to present his real question to her. He sighs softly and begins slowly. "I visited Nora – shortly after she returned home." Olivia inhales slowly and leans away from him. "I know Nora caused a lot of problems—behaved badly", Ben continues quickly.
"Behaved badly? You make her sound like a six year old. She's an adult, Ben, made adult choices", her voice rising with anger as she thinks about the despicable things Nora did at the community center and in their home.
"I know – I know. And I understand that you're still upset. But, Liv, Nora needs her family now - all of us. Something happened to her while she was away – she's different—almost childlike. I guess that's why mom and dad are so protective."
"Ben, I wish Nora all the best – I do — but I'm just not ready to embrace her right now. I'm not willing to open myself to that kind betrayal again", setting the glass onto the table. "And I certainly don't want to expose my children to her." Ben presses two fingers against his temple and Olivia knows he is uneasy with the conversation. Well that makes two of them.
"Liv, you know I would never ask you to do anything to endanger my nieces." She crinkles her brow wondering where this conversation is going.
"What exactly are you saying, Ben?" Cocking her head slightly to the side and studying him closely. Ben hesitates for a moment, then proceeds cautiously.
"I'm saying – I'm asking you to allow Nora to attend Jolie's birthday party." Olivia recoils immediately, pulling her hand from his.
"What?" She stands from the sofa and begins pacing around the large room.
"Liv—I will be there - my parents will be there. We won't let anything happen." She stops pacing and looks at him questioningly.
"Did your mother put you up to this? Did Maura ask you to do this?"
"No – of course not", walking over to her. "I just thought it would help Nora if she could see her nieces – to become a full member of the family again. She shouldn't be treated like a pariah, Liv. She's isolated – you know what that feels like." With chest rising and falling, she glares at him angrily.
"I can't believe you're blaming me for Nora's circumstance", hurrying over to the sofa and grabbing her purse. "Besides, Fitz won't have it." Ben gives her a look that says you and I both know better.
"Of course I'm not blaming you. I was just hoping you could find it within you to extend Nora some — some grace."
She stops fumbling with her purse and whips her head around and looks at him wild-eyed. The two old friends stare into each other's eye; one set of eyes says trust me, the other set says I do not trust her.
"Liv, I'm Jo's godfather, you know I would never let anything happen to her – to either of them. I would never do anything to put my nieces in danger." She shakes her head from side to side. She was not expecting this. She was not expecting Ben to put her in such a difficult position. She needs time to think.
Dressed in work-out gear, Marion enters the apartment, drops her gym bag to the floor, and tosses her keys onto the small table in the hall. A loud thump echoes from the floor and interrupts their stare down.
"Ben, I really needed that work-out. Wilson is …" Marion stops abruptly when she sees Ben and Olivia standing in the middle of the room staring at each other.
"Hello, Marion", Olivia says, quickly grabbing her jacket from the arm of the sofa. She gives Marion a quick hug and kiss on the cheek, then rushes toward the door. "I'm sorry – I must be going."
"Liv –"
"I have to go, Ben. Good-bye. She swings open the door and hurries down the hall. Marion frowns, wondering what the hell is going on when Ben rushes to the door.
"Liv – don't go", Ben pleads, but Olivia is already stepping onto the elevator.
"Shit", he exclaims, as he slams the door. "Liv is upset", he says, oblivious that his girlfriend is equally upset. Eyes flashing with anger, Marion watches Ben plop down onto the sofa. She needs to get out of the room, get away from him right now before she does something she might regret later.
"I'm going to take a shower", she says, stomping off toward the bedroom. He simply nods.
The long, hot shower does nothing to quell Marion's anger. She needs a drink — needed a drink all day. After her confrontation with Wilson, she fought back the urge to go home and down a bottle of Chardonnay, instead, she opted to go to the gym and work out her frustrations. Wait a waste.
XXX
Ben sits on the sofa contemplating whether he should call and check on Olivia. He did not mean to upset her, but he thinks it is important she understands that Nora is having a difficult time adjusting to being back home. He looks up when he hears Marion trudging from the bedroom dressed in pajamas.
"Are you okay?" Watching her walk past him and into the kitchen.
"Why wouldn't I be?" Rummaging through the kitchen drawer looking for the corkscrew. "Dammit", she yelps when she nicks her index finger on the opener's sharp tip.
"Are you all right in there?" Marion fills the glass and takes a long swig. "Mar …"
With the glass in one hand, Marion grabs the wine bottle from the counter with the other and walks into the living room. She sits at the far end of the sofa, away from him, and slams the bottle onto the cocktail table.
"Is something wrong, Mar?"
"What was she doing her?"
"What?"
"Olivia – what was she doing here? "What's going on here, Ben?" He looks at her curiously. "You just cannot stop yourself from wanting to be with her – can you?"
"What?"
"If you want to be with her then go – be with her", taking another long swig.
"You don't know what the hell you're talking about."
"I know what I saw with my own two eyes."
"Really – then why don't you tell me what you saw?" He is not in the mood for this tonight.
"I saw a pathetic, sniveling, little man sniffing around his brother's wife again. That's what I saw."
"For god's sake - when will this stop? Your obsession and jealousy of Olivia is unwarranted and tiring."
"Unwarranted - tiring? You've never gotten over her. It's annoying – I don't know how Fitz tolerates it", bringing the glass to her lips again.
"When will you get over your jealousy? I'm getting fed up –"
"Fed up? You're getting fed up? Well I'm fed up. I'm fed up with you mooning over Olivia like you're some lovesick teenager. It's pathetic", she spits out with disgust.
"Why do you do this? Why do you always have to make something out of nothing – create a problem when there is none?"
"Why do you always give me a reason? Why is it I have to come here and find you huddled with Olivia? Answer that, Dr. Grant", glaring at him angrily. Ben presses two fingers against his temple and closes his eyes.
"Marion", he begins slowly, trying to control his anger. "I asked Liv to meet me here to discuss Nora. I told you, my sister is still suffering and I was hoping I could convince Liv to allow Nora to attend Jolie's birthday party next month. That's why she was here – nothing more", he says tiredly. Marion's eyes widen and her mouth falls open. She has made a terrible mistake. She sets the glass onto the table and slides across the sofa toward him and tries to take his hand in hers, but he pulls away.
"Ben —"
"I don't know if I can do this any longer", he says, walking across the room and standing in front of the huge windows. Her heart nearly stops.
"What are you saying?" A nervous quiver lacing her voice.
"I'm saying maybe we need to take a break for a while – to see if this is what we both really want."
"Ben — you don't mean that."
"You obviously don't trust me – and if you can't trust me then what's the point?" Looking at her with disappointment.
"Ben – I'm sorry. A lot is going on at work. Wilson is excluding me — making my life a living hell."
"There's always an excuse. You attack me rather than ask what is going on. Your jealousy and anger are out of control."
"I told you – Wilson is –"
"This is not about Wilson and it definitely isn't about Liv. Something else is going on that prevents you from being happy." She slides one of the accent pillows onto her lap and hugs it close, trying to prevent the tears from falling. She is losing him.
"You are a beautiful, smart, and articulate women. But you make it so hard to be with you. You seem to get some sort of pleasure out of chaos – and you know I don't like that", walking over to the cocktail table and grabbing his keys. "I don't want to argue with you at every turn, Marion. And I damn sure don't want to be your punching bag."
"Ben …" He puts his hand up, stopping her from offering another excuse. She sees the anger on his face and knows she has pushed him too far this time.
"I'm going out - do whatever you want." He glances around the beautiful apartment before walking out the door.
The sound of the door closing gives Marion permission to let the tears fall. She doubles over and sobs uncontrollably into the pillow, hating herself for allowing her jealousy to become the true third person in their relationship. She hates herself for continuing to allow the past to ruin her life. She hates herself for creating the thing she fears the most.
XXX
Olivia's visit with Ben this afternoon was unsettling, to say the least. When she arrived at his apartment she surely did not expect their visit to end the way that it did. She did not expect Ben to test their friendship, to blindside her with such an unreasonable request. She is so tired of the past continuing to show up in her life. Fitz watches his wife walk from the bathroom, almost in slow motion. She has not been herself all evening. She barely touched her dinner and said next to nothing as Cena carried on about the week-old recital. Not really in the mood to perform her nightly routine, she reluctantly reaches into the nightstand drawer and pulls out the jar. She unscrews the top, tosses it onto the nightstand, and sighs as she dips her fingers into the rich cream.
"What's the matter?" Watching her massage the cream onto her arm the way she has every night since they have been married. She sighs again and stops rubbing the cream onto her arm.
"I saw Ben today", she says flatly.
"You did?" Looking at her with surprise.
"He invited me to his apartment – he wanted to talk", she says solemnly.
"Talk — about what?"
"Nora."
"Nora? What about Nora?" Furrowing his brow with curiosity.
"He wants me – us - to invite Nora to Jo's birthday party." She hesitates a moment, waiting for him to go berserk before continuing. And to her surprise he says nothing. "He's concerned about her and thinks it would be helpful if she spent more time around family." Fitz remains silent. "He said he and your parents would keep an eye on her – make sure everything is okay", subtly testing the idea with him.
"I see."
"He said I should extend grace to Nora."
"What did you say?" Eyeing her closely. He has be thinking about his little sister a lot lately, thinking about her addiction and the emotional pain she must be experiencing.
"I said nothing really — I was shocked. I wasn't expecting Ben to put me in that kind of position, Fitz", looking over her shoulder at her unusually quiet husband.
"You're awfully silent about this. I would have thought you'd be ranting and raving by now."
"We all have our demons, Liv." She tilts her head slightly and wonders if the Grant men have lost their minds today.
"So are you saying you're okay with Nora coming to Jo's party?" Her voice rising slightly.
"I'm saying I want to put all of this behind us — don't you?" She tilts her head slightly and eyes him for a long while. Something is going on with him.
"Is something wrong, babe? Are you all right?"
"I'm just so damned tired of being dragged back into the past", running fingers through his hair. "I want it all to be over." She stares into his eyes for a long time, reading the emotions in his eyes, and thinking maybe it is time to put the matter behind them. She slowly nods her head.
"I guess Nora is coming to Jo's party", pecking him on the lips. He deepens the kiss, and lowers her onto the bed.
"Thank you", he says, kissing down her neck.
"Grace", she says.
"You know you still owe me", sliding the nightgown strap down her shoulder as he climbs on top. "You didn't think I forgot?" Smiling mischievously while pinning her beneath him.
"Then I must pay", gliding her tongue into his mouth as she wraps her legs around his waist. Flush with passion, he slides down his boxes and kicks them off to the side "The door", she whispers.
"It's locked", running his tongue around her full breast. "I really, really missed you today", sucking on the firm nipple. She gasps and closes her eyes.
Leaving a trail of wet kisses down her stomach, he gently bites and sucks her inner thigh, and she trembles, opening her legs wide. He hooks his arms behind her knees and pulls her down the bed until their lips meet. He gives her other lips open-mouthed kisses, his mouth lingering on the soft, wet flesh. She presses his head closer, deepening the kiss.
"Mmmm", inhaling deeply as he slides his tongue inside the wetness. Holding her thighs tight, he plunges his tongue in deep, and she grabs fistfuls of his hair. "You taste so good, baby – so good", drinking in the flow of her juices.
"Oh, god, Fitz. Don't stop – don't stop – please don't stop." He furrows his brow and stares blankly at the opening. "Fitz – don't stop."
He spread the lips wide, hungrily eyeing the small swollen flesh. He lowers his head and slowly runs his tongue up and down the sensitive bud, and she lifts her bottom, encouraging him to suckle, and he does. His lips clamp down and her thighs squeeze shut, locking him in place. Every nerve cell in her body is tingling and she begins to laugh uncontrollably.
"I can't breathe, Liv", he mumbles from below, and she allows her thighs to fall open, releasing her hold on him.
"Babe, that was fan-tastic", grinning widely.
Fitz slides up her body and kisses her until they both are breathless. He strokes his hard, throbbing flesh and looks at her with desire, and she runs her tongue over her full lips. He nods and closes his eyes. She glides her tongue around the glistening tip and he twitches.
"Livvie", he exhales softly.
She opens her mouth and he slides inside the warm wetness, moaning with pleasure as her mouth moves up and down his length. And she moans at the feel of the thick veins brushing against her mouth.
"Livvie — Livvie", running his fingers through her hair.
She feels amazing. He feels amazing. He can cum right now, in this moment, and everything would be right in his world, but he wants to enjoy the pleasure she is giving him forever. His hips rock involuntarily back and forth and his heavy balls bounce against her chin, and she sucks harder. His face contorts with pleasure — he is close. He caresses the side of her face, their signal he does not want to cum this way. She nods. They kiss slowly and passionately as he slides in, and they both gasp from the connection. He pumps slowly, reveling in the most exquisite feeling ever.
"Deeper, baby – deeper."
He quickens the pace, riding her hard, and dipping deeper and deeper. He is in search of that magical place. The place where time always stands still. The place where everything tastes sweeter. The place where the colors of the rainbow always appear brighter. The place where the sun is always hotter.
"Oh God, Fitz. You feel so good – so good. Don't stop, baby, don't stop."
He frowns and glances up at her face which is glowing with ecstasy. He inhales a lungful of air and plunges deeper, and for a brief and precious moment, they are untethered, one from the other. They are floating in the magical place where everything is sweeter, brighter, and hotter. He wants to stay in that place forever. A few minutes pass before he slides out and rolls onto his back. He is trying to catch his breath and she is laughing again.
"Are you okay?" Turning his head and searching her face for any other sign that something is amiss.
"Fan-tastic", snuggling close and resting her head on his shoulder. "Why – was it not good for you?" She laughs out loud again.
"You're being silly", rubbing his hand up and down her arm.
"I've always wanted to say that", giggling again as she drapes a limp leg over his stomach. "Of course I'm fine. I'm always fine after making love with my favorite husband."
"I'm your only husband — always will be – don't ever forget it", running his fingers through her thick curls.
"Never – ever", she says sleepily.
"Kiss me", he demands as he looks into her drooping eyes.
She summons up enough energy to peck him on the lips before dropping her head back onto his shoulder and falling fast asleep. For the next few hours, with face set hard and lips pressed into a thin line, Fitz lay in the dark staring up at the ceiling.
XXX
Olivia leans back in the buttery soft yellow leather chair and rolls her neck from side to side, trying to remove the kinks from sitting and looking at her computer screen far too long. Over the past three hours, she has been reading the content on the Diatell website and now she needs a break. She stands, gazes out the window, and smiles. The incredible view of the bay always makes her smile. She really thinks she can see the Space Needle in Seattle. Her full bladder interrupts her musing and she searches in her purse for the access card. With access card in hand, Olivia hurries down the hall toward the bathroom, and groans when she sees the housekeeping cart propping open the door. She knows she should not have waited so long but she was so engrossed in the work, the Diatell website is chock-full of valuable information. As a young girl, her mother always admonished her for waiting too long to go to the bathroom. She warned Olivia that doing so would ruin her bladder. She sighs because she knows she cannot make it to the bathroom on the next floor, so she taps the card on the door before entering.
"I am so sorry to interrupt - but I really need …." Olivia stops abruptly when the woman who is mopping the floor looks up.
"Hello. Mrs. Grant", Kelly says, trying to shield her embarrassment. She knew it was inevitable that one day she would see Olivia in this space, but that does not make her feel any less ashamed.
"Mrs. Grant?" Olivia says, wondering Kelly is being so formal. "I had no idea you worked here, Kelly. How are you?" Trying to disguise her surprise.
"I'm fine", Kelly says, tightening her grip on the mop handle.
"And Asha?"
"She's also fine."
"The dance recital was over a week ago and can you believe Cena is still going on and on about it. She –"
"I better let you get in here, Mrs. Grant", Kelly says curtly. She quickly steps around Olivia and pushes the cart into the hall. Stunned when Kelly dashes from the bathroom, Olivia stands in the middle of the room and watches as the door slowly closes.
XXX
Fitz walks into the bedroom where Olivia has already begun her nightly routine. It has been a long day and he simply wants to go to sleep.
"Babe, you broke your record tonight. You've been reading Goodnight Moon forever."
"Three readings", he says, unfastening his watch and tossing it onto his nightstand.
"Guess who I saw today?" Looking at him tug at the bedcovers. "I saw Kelly", she says quickly, not giving him sufficient time to offer a response. "She works at Bryson's."
"Who's Kelly?" Olivia looks at her husband as if he has lost his mind. "What?" Wondering if he has said the wrong thing.
"What do you mean who's Kelly? Asha's mother - remember?"
"Did you talk to her about -?"
"No, babe, I didn't get a chance."
"Liv, you have to handle this. You know Cena is going to ask me again about being Asha's father", flopping onto the bed and sighing loudly.
"Did you hear what I said? Kelly works at Bryson's", she says with urgency.
"Then you can talk to her the next time you're in the office", he says as he slides under the covers.
"Fitz — Kelly cleans the bathrooms at Bryson's."
He looks at her for a moment, then nods with understanding. Olivia stares at him expectantly, waiting for him to offer her some wise advice on how to handle the incredibly awkward situation.
"But you can still talk to her — right?"
"Fitz, what is wrong with you? Do you understand what I'm saying? I think Kelly was embarrassed."
"Why would you say that?" Turning onto his side and looking at his wife's distressed face.
"Because she couldn't get out of that bathroom fast enough. She even called me Mrs. Grant — I felt awful."
"Awful? About what? You've done nothing wrong."
"You don't understand", she says half to herself.
"Just talk to her, Liv", turning onto his side and tucking the pillow under his head. Olivia looks at the back of his head and shakes her head in disbelief. She cannot believe her husband does not understand her predicament. Thank goodness she will be working from home for the next few days.
XXX
Olivia has been working in their home office all day when Fitz called and asked her to pick up Cena from dance class. His meeting with Henri is going to run over time and he does not want Cena waiting for him at the studio. Carrying a sleeping Jolie in one arm and her purse over the other arm, Olivia struggles to press the dance studio's doorbell. She now regrets not bringing the stroller from the car because Jolie is even heavier when she is sleeping. When Ebony's teenage assistant opens the door, Olivia is surprised to see Cena sitting alone with her head down and twisting her fingers. She knows immediately that something is wrong. She glances around looking for Ebony and sees she is talking with a parent on the other side of the room. Olivia shifts Jolie in her arms and walks over to Cena to find out what has her daughter so sad. She sits on the chair next to Cena and lay Jolie across her lap.
"Cena, what's the matter baby?" Cena remains silent and continues to look down at her fingers. Olivia lifts her daughter's chin and realizes she has been crying. "Aww, Cee, what's the matter - why are you crying?"
The tears are now in full force and the crying gets Ebony's attention. She excuses herself from the parent and walks over to Olivia and her daughter. She sits on the chair next to Cena and strokes the little girl's back.
"Hello, Mrs. Grant", giving Olivia a sympathetic look.
"Hello, Ebony. Cena is upset. Do you know what's wrong?"
"I don't have all of the details, Mrs. Grant, but it seems like Cena and Asha had a little tiff today."
"A tiff? About what?"
"Like I said - I don't have all of the details, but I saw the girls talking before Ms Innis took her daughter home.
"Asha said we're not friends anymore", Cena manages to choke out through the crying. Olivia and Ebony look at each other astonished because the two girls have been inseparable since Cena joined the dance school.
"Did Asha say anything else, baby?"
"Her mommy said we can't be friends", poking out her bottom lip.
"I'm so sorry, Mrs. Grant, I had no idea."
"Go get your bag, baby. We'll talk about this at home. Okay?" Cena drags across the room to get her bag from the cubby hole.
XXX
When Fitz opens the door he is surprised when his greeting party is nowhere to be found. He frowns as he walks into the family room and only sees Jolie playing quietly on the play mat. He hopes Olivia did not forget to pick up Cena. He picks up Jolie, who is trying to grab his nose as they walk into the kitchen. He stuffs the little hand into his mouth and pretends to chew her fingers. Jolie squeals with laughter.
"That will teach you to grab daddy's nose, little girl", examining his wife's body as she bends over looking into the oven. He swats her on the butt and Jolie laughs again.
"Fitz", she whines, straightening her back and setting the casserole Hildie made for their dinner on top of the stove. "Are you laughing at mommy little girl?" Squeezing Jolie's red cheek.
"Where's my greeting party?" Pecking his wife on the lips.
"Upstairs. Cena is napping."
"Napping? Is she not well?"
"She's not sick, babe. Her feelings are hurt – she's sad", walking over to the copper farmhouse sink to rinse the vegetables.
"Sad? What's wrong – why is she sad?" Turning his face away from Jolie's grabby fingers.
"Babe, Cena was crying when I got to the dance studio."
"Crying? About what?" Concern filling his voice.
"Apparently, Asha said they can no longer be friends."
"What?"
Startled by the volume of her father's voice, Jolie stops grabbing for his face and looks at him with trembling lips. She starts to cry.
"Shh – shh", he says, rocking Jolie in his arm.
"Apparently, Kelly told Asha that she and Cena cannot be friends."
"Why would she do that? They've been friends for almost a year. That's a lifetime for little girls."
"I'm not sure - but I'm going to the office tomorrow so I can speak with her. I need to get to the bottom of this." Fitz nods.
"I'm going to check on her", he says, handing Jolie to his wife.
"Remember, babe, breaking up is hard to do – even for a six year old." He nods again as he walks from the kitchen.
"Dinner will be ready in 15 - bring her down, babe", Olivia calls to her husband who is already on his way upstairs.
XXX
Taking two steps at a time, Fitz hurries up the stairs to check on his Princess. He stands in the doorway, glancing around the bedroom, and reflecting on when they were planning the design for Cena's big girl room. He chose the princess theme and worked closely with Olivia and the decorator to select every item in the room. He looks over at Bowtie, who is perched at the foot of the bed, then over at Cena, who is curled into a tight ball. With sad eyes, Bowtie looks up at Fitz, seemingly urging him to make his best friend feel better. He sits on the side of the bed and softly shakes Cena's small shoulder.
"Princess — wake up Princess", he says softly. Cena opens eyes that match his. "Hey, Princess", his voice filled with empathy.
"Hi, daddy", she says sadly.
"Do you want to tell daddy what happened?" He brushes the hair away from her face and the tears begin to stream fall again.
"Asha said she can't be my friend anymore."
"Aww, sweetheart, I'm so sorry", pulling her onto his lap and kissing the top of the head. "And that makes you feel sad." Cena nods her head up and down. "You can feel sad – that's okay. Do you want daddy to get you something to drink?" She shakes her head from side to side. "Do you want to come downstairs with me?"
"No", she says softly.
"That's all right, you can come downstairs when you're ready." Fitz places Cena back onto the bed and she slides a thumb into her mouth as he pulls the covers over her shoulders.