A/N: Sweet160717, although Olivia will miss her parents, she now accepts that they need to do what they find fulfilling. She is an adult with a family, she can handle not having her parents around. They are in a good place. Gwendolyn showed her daughter she will be there if needed. crabapplect, Abby was out of control because Marion is a reminder of her past. But, her anger is heightened because she feels threatened by Marion. You'll read about her fear in Chapter 59. Emma, you will find out in Chapter 59 what is happening to Olivia and Fitz' things. We got insight into John and Abby's marriage. Things aren't good. We'll see if Abby is willing to change. Fixing internal issues is hard work. dendardendan, Abby is still struggling with the pain from her past. Fitz is showing his sister empathy because he knows what suffering feels like. He is really taking to heart Rev. Walker's sermon on compassion a few chapters back. It was time for the Grants to have their home back and get back to normal. The Popes had to move on. I was surprised there wasn't more mention in the reviews about Fitz doing Olivia's hair. Monica, Fitz' emotional pain and the opioid use has made him more empathetic to the suffering of others. We will see more of this side of him in upcoming chapters. Nora is physically healthy, but is still emotionally fragile, so she will remain celibate until she is fully healed. John knew Abby had issues when he married her, but lately she has been acting more unstable, and he can't tolerate the behavior. Abby loves her husband, she just needs to handle some unfinished business from childhood, which has begun to impact other parts of her life. dafney64, I hope you breathing. It's been a while since the last update. Glad you're enjoying the story. Guest 1, Cena is 6 not 7. She will be 7 in November. You're right, keeping her age straight is an easy fix. I should refer to my notes and not rely on my failing memory. I accept the reprimand. Guest 2, we know the gender reveal happened because Olivia and Fitz were reflecting on it. (Just because you don't see a thing happening doesn't mean it's not happening— Harrison Wright)
Chapter 59. Mystery Solved
Fitzgerald Thomas Grant, III, is a happy man. In fact, since their late-night romp in the shower a few days ago, he feels like he is on cloud nine. He is more relaxed and affectionate with his wife, taking advantage of any opportunity to kiss and caress her. Cena has even remarked to her mother that daddy is no longer a grumpy pants. With the Popes back in Senegal, Fitz feels free to ravage his wife anywhere in the house and at anytime. He no longer worries that his in-laws will walk in on one of their make-out sessions. With his body pressed impossibly close to hers, he glides his wet mouth up and down her neck. Olivia smiles and continues to stir the pot of sauce. She is making spaghetti and meatballs for dinner.
"Mmm — something smells good", he says, wrapping his arms around her widening hips.
"I'm making your favorite", enjoying the feel of his tongue gliding up and down her neck.
"You're my favorite', he says huskily as he cradles her stomach. "How's my babies' momma doing?" Olivia rolls her eyes and continues to stir the sauce. She hates that phrase.
"Babe — I'm trying to fix dinner."
"And I'm trying to enjoy my babies' momma", he repeats the annoying phrase. "You taste so good", gently nipping at her neck.
"You're so handsy lately, Mr. Grant."
"You know I love it when we're pregnant. I can't get enough of you", caressing her full breasts. "Besides - I no longer have to worry about your father scowling whenever he caught me enjoying my beautiful wife", rubbing her growing belly. "He made me feel like a schoolboy who was caught sneaking a kiss from his daughter in the family den."
Her smile fades and she stops stirring the pot. With hand on her hip, Olivia turns and squints at him.
"What?" Looking at the expression on her face and wondering what he said wrong this time.
"Are you saying you're happy that my parents are no longer living here?"
"I said no such thing", caressing her plump butt, and she slaps away his hand.
"Then what are you saying?"
"Liv — you're making a big deal out of nothing. I'm just saying I had to modulate the expression of undying desire to ravage my wife because your parents could walk in at anytime."
She grins like a Cheshire cat because her husband is still attracted to her, even though she is pregnant with twins. She wraps her arms around his waist and kisses him deeply.
"I love you, too", she says.
The sounds of smacking lips and moans fill the air as Cena runs into the kitchen. She is used to seeing her parents kissing, but Asha stops in the doorway. She is still unsure how to react when she sees Baaba and GoGo embroiled in a make-out session. Fitz ignores his Princess and continues to devour his wife's mouth, so Cena pulls his pants pocket, her tactic for getting her father's attention whenever he is kissing mommy. Peering over her husband's shoulder, Olivia looks down at her daughter and Fitz drops his head to her shoulder and expels a sigh of frustration.
"What is it, Cee?" Olivia asks her persistent daughter.
"Asha and I are waiting for daddy", she says, looking up at her parents.
"Babe, your fangirls are waiting for you", chuckling at the look on her husband's face. Not bothering to move away from his wife, Fitz looks down at his daughter then over at Asha, who is still frozen in the kitchen doorway.
"We're ready, daddy", Cena repeats.
"I'll be there in a minute, Princess. You and Asha go get the hammers out the hall closet."
Cena nods and runs from the kitchen with Asha following close behind.
"We'll finish this later", he whispers in his wife's ear and gives her a quick kiss before going to meet up with the girls. They are ready to go outside to ring the rocks.
"Promises – promises", Olivia laughs playfully. "And don't be too long – dinner will be ready in an hour."
XXX
Harry tightens his grip on Rufus' leash when he sees Fitz walking down the street with his daughters and the family dog. Once again, he wonders about the third little girl. He sees her playing outside with Cena a lot lately.
"Hello, Harry", Fitz says as he lifts Jolie in his arms away from Rufus. Bowtie growls at the old dog. "Down boy", Fitz commands as he yanks on Bowtie's leash.
"Hello, Fitz. Hello, girls", Harry says, smiling at the three faces.
"Hello", Cena and Asha return the greeting.
"Hi, Rufus", Cena says, patting the dog's head.
"It's a beautiful day – isn't it. I'm glad the heatwave is over", Harry says.
"It was pretty hot for a while. I have to get the girls home for dinner, Harry. Take care." Harry can be quite the talker, so Fitz turns to head back to the house.
"You too, Fitz. Oh - by the way – please thank Olivia for the lovely fruit basket. The fruit is absolutely delicious. Rufus loves his treats, too", Harry chuckles lightly as he strokes the feeble dog's head. Fitz' brow creases as he continues to walk toward the house because he has no idea what Harry is talking about.
"And – Fitz", Harry calls out. Fitz turns, and Asha, Cena, and Bowtie turn and look at Harry. "Congratulations – I see that Olivia is pregnant again."
"Twins – we're having twins, Harry. One is a boy."
XXX
As Marcella walks toward the foundation, she digs into her purse for her phone. She is extra early this morning, in fact, she is early every day. She enjoys having the foundation all to herself for about an hour or so before Mona arrives. The office is so still and peaceful at this time of the morning, which gives her the chance to leisurely enjoy a cup of her favorite coffee and check out what is happening on social media. Marcella taps the phone screen to enter the code to disarm the alarm system. Fumbling for a moment with her keys, she finally unlocks the door, and is surprised when she comes face to face with Mona.
"I saw you on the camera trying to unlock the door", Mona laughs. "Do you need any help carrying those things?
"No – no", Marcella stutters. She wonders why Mona is here so early today. "You're here awfully early today, Mona."
"I could say the same about you", Mona says, and Marcella looks uncomfortable. She does not want Mona to think she is trying to take control of the foundation. "Relax, Marcella – I'm just joking. I have a doctor's appointment this afternoon and I wanted to come in early to get some work done before I have to leave."
"I see", Marcella says as she walks down the hall toward her office.
"Marcella - once you get your coffee and get settled in this morning – come to my office – I want to go over a few things with you."
"Will do."
Fifteen minutes later, Marcella walks into Mona's office carrying her tablet and mug of hazelnut coffee. She loves the aroma of the coffee. Some days she mixes vanilla coffee with the hazelnut.
"Marcella, when I told you a few years ago that you and Olivia are more alike than different — you couldn't see it back then."
"I still don't see the similarities, Mona."
"You are both social activists— trying to bring about change in the areas you care deeply about. You both use your unique talents and skills to help the people of this city live a better life. Your approaches to affecting change might be different – but your goals are the same.
"I see – but why are you bringing that up now?"
"Because I want you to know that you belong here and that we are all working toward the same cause. This is your home, too, Marcella. Okay?
Marcella nods.
"Good - now let's get to work. I want to show you our calendar of events", Mona says, opening the current year and next year's calendars on her monitor. "March is a very busy month for us, Marcella. We support International Women's Day and World Water Day in March. World Water Day occurs every year on March 22."
Marcella nods. "Does the foundation take on new projects, Mona?"
"We do. That program to replace the old lead pipes in the homes in Springfield Heights was a new project for the foundation. Those pipes tainted the drinking of people who could not afford to replace them", Mona says, shaking her head. "This year, with the funding we'll receive from the Bryson philanthropy program - thanks to Olivia - we will kick off phase two of that work. "Dr. Marion Harris – the city's director of Public Health – you met her at the gender reveal."
"I certainly did. Dr. Harris seems like the only person who can handle that Abigail."
"And handle Abigail Grant – she did", Mona says. "Well Marion is going to work with Olivia to track and monitor those children who lived in those homes with the old lead pipes to make sure they get any medical treatment they might need. Lead poisoning can lead to lifetime developmental issues for children, Marcella."
"That's terrific, Mona. That program will help so many people."
"That's what we social activists do", Mona chuckles.
"Mona — how does the foundation identify new projects to support?"
"We vet them. We research and interview private and public figures to determine if there is a real issue."
"I see."
"Here are the instruction manuals Olivia and I created over the years for preparing for the events I mentioned. After trying to remember how we did a thing for so long - one year we decided to document how we actually get things done. Maura Grant added to the instructions when she worked here."
"Thanks, Mona — but I think I'll read the files online. I don't like carrying around those heavy binders."
"You see — that's why we need you around here. You millennials think differently. You all come up with so many shortcuts."
Marcella smiles. "So — does Mrs. Grant have to approve all new projects?"
"No — not necessarily. However, Olivia and I meet monthly - so I update her on the operations."
Marcella slowly nods her head.
"What's on your mind, Marcella?"
"Mona — private homes are not the only place where children are exposed to lead-tainted water."
"What do you mean?" Mona asks with brow furrowed.
"The schools in the surrounding neighborhoods – in Springfield Heights, Tilghman, and Roosevelt - are old, Mona. They've been around forever. My grandmother and mother went to those schools when they were children - little has changed since then."
"I understand, Marcella. You forget — I went to school in Springfield Heights."
Marcella nods. "The aging metal pipes in those old schools have contaminated the schools' water supply. High levels of lead and copper were found at eight schools and 12 others tested positive for contaminates. As a precaution, the city shut off all the water in all the schools – which affects some 25,000 students. No one knows how long the children have been drinking the tainted water."
"My god", Mona says.
"The water company that supplies water to the schools say the tainted water problem does not go beyond the schools - so citizens don't have to worry. They say the city's water is safe and it's tested hourly and residents should not worry about a widespread water problem."
Mona wonders where she has heard that before.
"The city provided the schools with bottled water until they closed for the summer."
Mona shakes her head, thinking this sounds like the same problem they found in the older homes in Springfield Heights.
"The real problem, Mona - is there has been a lack of investment in the city's schools' infrastructure. The problem has been compounded over time. We can't have our children exposed to tainted water or the mold or rodent feces that are in the schools.
"What are you suggesting, Marcella? From what you say — it sounds like the school district is handling the problem."
"The city is dragging its feet, Mona. I was hoping the foundation could get involved."
"Marcella — the schools are the responsibility of the city. City officials have to fix the plumbing problem. Our foundation doesn't have the capacity to take on that kind of problem."
"I see", Marcella says dejectedly.
"Marcella - we have to be strategic about how we use our resources. If we spread ourselves too thin - trying to save the world - then no one gets saved."
"I understand, Mona. I guess I better get started reading those files", Marcella says as she leaves Mona's office.
XXX
While Fitz is at the ophthalmologist for his annual eye exam, Olivia isworking in their home office, preparing for her upcoming meeting with leaders of several of the major non-profit organizations in the city. Meeting with the leaders is her first step toward implementing Bryson's philanthropy program. She smiles when she hears the faint sound of metal jingling, and for a moment, she thinks that her mother is coming into the study. However, it is Bowtie who is walking into the room and carrying an apple in his mouth. He drops the fruit onto Olivia's lap, then looks up at her with his sad eyes.
"What's the matter, boy? Did Jo put fruit in your bowl again? Jo — you have to stop putting things in Bowtie's bowl."
Jolie, who is sitting on the floor across the room entertaining herself with the mountain of toys, claps her hands when she hears her name. Bowtie whimpers and lay his head onto Olivia's lap. Olivia scratches his neck and the dog tags jingle again. They are both feeling a little sad today. Her parents have been back in Senegal for weeks and she still misses them.
XXX
Cena and Asha run down the long staircase and into the huge family room, laughing and screaming as they play tag. Asha tries to dodge Cena's outstretched, but makes a wrong move and bumps into the pedestal, sending the glass vase crashing to the floor. Her eyes widen, then the spigot of tears is turned on as she stares at the shards of colorful glass scattered across the hardwood floor. Olivia's her heart stops when she hears the crash. Someone is hurt. She grabs Jolie from the floor and runs to the family room where she sees Asha is crying.
"What happened? Are you all right?" Olivia asks with panic, twisting and turning Asha to check if she is hurt.
Asha continues to cry.
"Are you hurt? Did you cut yourself?" Olivia asks in a panic.
"You're going to spank me", Asha says through the tears.
"What? I would never spank you. Are you hurt?" Continuing to check the little girl for cuts.
"Mommy said to be good and not to break anything. Mommy's going to be mad."
"No - she's not. It was an accident, sweetheart. It's not your fault. Okay?" Olivia says, as she wraps her arms around the trembling little girl.
"You're not going to spank me?" Asha asks, looking up at Olivia with her big brown eyes that are overflowing with tears." Olivia kisses the top of Asha's head.
"Of course not. Why don't you and Cee run upstairs and play so I can clean up the glass. I don't want you girls to cut yourselves. Okay?"
"Don't cry, Asha. I broke my lamp and mommy bought me a new one. Come on - let's go play in my room", Cena says.
Olivia sets Jolie onto the sofa, away from the broken vase, and walks down the hall to retrieve the broom and vacuum cleaner from the utility closet.
XXX
The bedtime story routine is altered on the nights that Asha stays with them. All three girls pile into Asha's bed and Fitz reads Goodnight Moon, no less than three times, until all the girls have fallen asleep. He pulls the covers over Asha, then takes Jolie to the nursery and tucks her in, then returns for Cena to tuck her in.
"Everybody's asleep and tucked in", he says, walking into the bedroom and unfastening his watch.
"Babe - you have to keep your eyes on Jo during the day. She's getting into everything these days. She put apples and oranges into Bowtie's water bowl today. Poor Bowtie didn't know what to do."
"How did she get the fruit, Liv?" Tossing his watch onto the night table. Olivia stops massaging her new unscented the cream onto her arm and thinks about the question. She really has no idea how Jolie got the fruit again or when she put it into Bowtie's water bowl.
"That's my point. She's sneaky, Fitz - you have to watch her closely. I don't want her putting things into her mouth."
He nods.
"Speaking of fruit – I saw Harry earlier - he said to thank you for the fruit basket. Why did you buy him a fruit basket?"
"It was an apology gift – for when you were rude to him and Rufus. It's taken me forever to order the gift. I've been so busy lately."
He climbs into bed, nodding as he remembers the day he yelled at Harry.
"There was a mishap earlier", Olivia continues. "Asha and Cee were playing – running through the house and Asha knocked over that old vase in the family room."
"Is she okay? I didn't see any cuts on her."
"She's fine – physically – that is. But, Fitz – she had a meltdown. You should've seen her. She thought I was going to spank her."
"Spank her - why would she think that?"
"And - she was terrified that I would tell Kelly. I started wondering …."
"Wondering what?" Looking at his wife curiously.
"Babe - do you think Kelly is spanking Asha?"
"Don't jump to conclusions, Liv. Kids just get a little nervous when they break something." Olivia is not convinced that childhood jitters is the reason for Asha's reaction.
"By the way — I'm going to visit Abby tomorrow. I want to find out what has her so angry lately."
"Maybe you should spank Abigail?" Pecking her on the lips before turning off his lamp.
XXX
Smiling as Abby carefully lowers herself onto the sofa, Olivia glances around the beautifully decorated room, thinking that Abby is an excellent decorator. She has a really good sense of design and furniture placement.
"So - you're having twins? Why am I the last to know that you're pregnant— let alone having twins?" Abby says snarkily.
"You're not the last to know. Besides — a lot has been going on", Olivia says as she sets her purse onto the coffee table as she sits onto the sofa."
"Like what? You haven't said a thing. You're becoming secretive lately, Olivia."
"Where's Ethan?" Olivia asks, her attempt at changing the subject, which does not go unnoticed by Abby.
"He's with Irma — at the playground. I don't know what I would do without her. I'm not ever letting Jonathan near me again. I hate being pregnant", stretching her long legs across the coffee table.
"Tell him Auntie Olivia is sorry that she missed seeing him today."
"I'm sure Fitzgerald is over the moon that he's finally getting a boy."
"Fitz says he would be happy either way – boy or girl."
"Pfft. Don't let that I'll-be-happy-as-long-as-they're-healthy fool you. All fathers want a son."
"Abby — I heard about what happened in the kitchen - at the gender reveal. What's going on, Abbs? What has you so wound up these days?"
"I don't know what you're talking about", Abby says, feigning ignorance.
"Nora has been through a lot, Abby. She's still healing."
"She's a slut, Olivia. Maura and Gerry look down their noses at me while their daughter sleeps with anything on two legs. Give me a break."
Abby waves her hand in the air as if she is swatting away a fly. Olivia cringes at the intemperate language, which portends for what is to come.
"Nora is healing and deserves our grace, Abby."
"Grace? Pfft", Abby twists her mouth and rolls her eyes skyward. "I'm tired of you all babying her. She's a grown woman. It's time she starts acting like one."
"Yes — grace. Everyone deserves grace —"
"Did you give Charlie Barber grace when he tried to kill you and your family on that mountain?" Lashing out like a hurt 10-year-old.
Olivia glares at her friend and Abby turns her head and stares at the photograph of her, Jonathan, and Ethan delicately placed on the table across the room. Even she knows her words are beyond the pale.
"You know I wasn't born into an affluent family, Olivia. I didn't have an idyllic childhood like you. I had to fight for everything I have — nothing was given to me."
Olivia shakes her head. She is getting tired of hearing about Abby's sad childhood.
"You know I didn't have the best childhood either, Abby."
"I know that your weird parents were always running around taking care of the world — but you never wanted for anything."
Olivia looks at Abby thinking she does not realize that material things are not a replacement for young girl's need for her parents. However, she chooses not to debate the matter.
"They call them mobile home communities now — but they were trailer parks back then — when I lived there. Trailer trash is how those rich bitches referred to us. Trash is something unneeded— something you discard when you're done with it."
"Abby — "
"Jonathan says our marriage is in trouble", looking away again as she fights back the tears. "He says he doesn't want his children to be raised by an angry mother.
"What's going on, Abby?"
"Everybody's turning against me."
"Abby — "
"You've changed, Olivia. That quack – that charlatan – that fake - has turned you against me.
"She's none of those things and you know it, Abby."
"It used to be you and me, Olivia. Maura and Gerry didn't like either in the early days. Hell — they still don't like me — but they suck up to that snooty quack Benjamin is pretending to be interested in. We both know better", giving Olivia a devious smile.
Olivia balls her hand into a tight fist and takes a few deep breaths to quell the anger that is building. She does not like the innuendo and she is tired of Abby bashing Marion.
"Fitz – the girls — are everything to me. If anything was to happen to any of them I wouldn't survive — I wouldn't. Marion saved my family, Abby. If she hadn't come along at that time …. I couldn't help Fitz - he was dying. I couldn't help my husband. I couldn't help my girls. So — yes — every day I praise god for sending Marion along at the right time that day. She saved my family - and for that - I will always be grateful to her. I hope you can understand that."
"She's just trying to get into your good graces — weasel her way into the Grant family. You even asked her to work with your program. I'm a nurse – you didn't ask me to help. She doesn't even practice medicine - she's an administrator. You've left the team, Olivia."
Olivia's eyes widen, suddenly realizing the source of Abby's abhorrent behavior of late. Yes, her disdain for what Marion represents from her childhood is partly the cause of her anger, but something more basic is at play. Abby is jealous of her relationship with Marion. Olivia shakes her head, silently admonishing herself for not seeing it, for not seeing what is really going on with her friend. She has been so focused on her own life — her family — she did not see that her friend also needed her.
"Abby — do you remember that day when you and John met at that open-air concert." Abby looks at Olivia and smiles.
"You were puking up your guts and those three idiots called Grant men were clueless about what was happening. I still can't believe I married into that family."
"You took control — took care of me — and you had just met me." Abby waves her hand dismissively. She does not like sentimental talk.
"Do you think I was going to leave you alone with those fools?"
"You have always been there for me, Abby. You were there when my mother wasn't. You were there when I was pregnant with Cee - and when I didn't realize I was experiencing prenatal depression. You were there when the depression came back with Jo - and when Fitz and I weren't in a good place. You drove me to Mirage — kept my secret — while I got better. You saved me, Abby."
"You are my friend – but more importantly— you are my big sister. Nothing or no one will ever come between that", staring intently into Abby's eyes.
She needed to hear those words from her friend. She needed to know that Olivia has not abandoned her. Abby brushes away the tear that rolls slowly down her cheek. Where she comes from, people do not show their emotions. They do not show weakness.
"That woman had the audacity to say I have no self-awareness. Who the hell does she think she is? I know exactly who I am."
"You are little Abby Whelan who is still hurting because she was born into circumstances that she had no control over. You're little Abby Whelan - who at age 10 - was hurt and humiliated by other little girls who had no clue of the impact of their words."
Abby looks at Olivia with tear-filled eyes and Olivia places a hand on her friend's arm.
"Little Abby Whelan is still hurt – embarrassed – ashamed - and angry. It's time for you to hug little Abby — tell her you're sorry that she had to experience such humiliation and shame. Tell Little Abby she is lovable and funny and sensitive. Tell her she doesn't have to fight any longer. Tell her that she can let go of her pain and shame. Tell her that she can have one more cry — but you have to move on. Tell her that you need to step into your present and enjoy your family and the wonderful life you have. Tell Little Abby that she can rest now."
Olivia slides across the sofa and wraps her arm around her friend's trembling shoulders and lets Little Abby's hurt spill onto her shoulder.
"Who am I supposed to be if I'm not the irascible potty mouth?" Abby sniffles as she looks into her friend's kind eyes.
"Happy. You're supposed to be happy. But - don't lose that quick wit. I don't know what I would ever do without that lightning-fast tongue." Olivia holds up a finger and playfully delivers her last warning. "But don't yield to your visceral impulses, Abigail."
Abby laughs because it feels like old times, and the two friends hug.
"I'm sorry, Olivia — I didn't mean what I said about that creep Charlie."
"I know. I have to get going, Abbs — Fitz will be home soon with the girls soon", Olivia says, standing and collecting her purse.
"So - how's the house-husband thing going?" Abby asks they walk to the front door.
"Honestly, Abbs — I didn't think he could do it — but Fitz is doing surprisingly well. He seems to have everything under control."
XXX
After checking on the sleeping girls one last time before retiring for the night, Fitz walks into the bedroom unfastening his watch. He wonders what is wrong with his wife when he sees her pacing in circles. He hopes Abigail did not say anything to upset her. He might have to have a talk with John.
"What's the matter?"
"What?" Olivia stops pacing and looks over at her husband.
"You're pacing. You pace in circles when something's wrong - back and forth when you're thinking. Circles tonight."
"I visited Abby today."
"Did she say something to upset you?" He asks with concern.
"She's jealous, Fitz — of my relationship with Marion."
"Jealous? What is she — six - like Cena?"
"Babe — she feels threatened - abandoned. Do you think I've been ignoring her?"
"You're a busy woman. Her feelings are unfounded, Liv", summarily dismissing the question.
"You can't say that her feelings are unfounded. She has a right to her feelings, Fitz. It never occurred to me that she would be jealous of Marion. Maybe I should've seen it."
"Abigail is an adult, Liv."
"I'm concerned about her, Fitz. Jealousy can be poisonous — self destructive."
Fitz is tired of talking about his sister-in-law, so he changes the subject.
"When is your meeting with the non-profit leaders?"
"Thursday. I'm sure they won't be interested in hearing what I have to say."
"They'll listen if they want to receive funding from your program. Remember, you have something they need – not the other way around."
XXX
Sipping on her diet cola, Marion smiles as she watches Ben meticulously prepares the green smoothie he has been drinking lately. Every few nights, the process is the same. First, he layers a hefty amount of leafy greens into the blender, next he adds cucumbers and various berries and melons, then he splashes in the coconut water. And, when he is satisfied that he has the right balance of vegetables and fruit, he places the lid on the blender bowl and presses the power button. As the blender whirls the ingredients into a smooth, creamy mixture, he turns to face Marion.
"So - you're okay with Iceland?" Leaning against the countertop with arms folded across his chest.
"I think it will be a lovely place to vacation. I've always wanted to see the Northern Lights. I've seen pictures and the colors are absolutely beautiful", Marion says dreamily.
"The Northern Lights are only visible September through April. I couldn't take time off from the hospital back then."
"Oh."
"We can go someplace else and go to Iceland another time", Ben says when he sees the disappointment on her face.
"No – it'll be fine. There's so much to see in Iceland. We can bathe in the Blue Lagoon and help the little puffin birds find their way back to the sea", she says with renewed interest.
Ben turns off the blender, fills three plastic bottles with the mixture, and sets them into the refrigerator. His grab and go breakfast is ready.
"These last few months have been hectic at the hospital - the new Director of Cardiology puts profits above the health of patients. I'm uncomfortable with that."
"What does that mean - you're uncomfortable with that? Are you considering looking for a position at another hospital?"
"I haven't gotten that far yet. I guess going to another hospital is always an option."
"Well there aren't many options in our area, Ben —at least not for someone with your talent." Hearing the concern in her voice, Ben walks over to Marion and kisses her tenderly.
"I don't want to talk about the hospital."
"Ben", giggling like a schoolgirl as he pulls the sweatshirt over her head.
"Hmm?" He moans, keeping his lips pressed against hers.
"Did you know that Olivia and Fitz were having twins? Can you believe that?"
"I didn't know they were having twins. Fitz says he's excited that he's finally going to have a son", trailing kisses down her chest.
"I'm sure he is. Ben - I've been thinking — about Nora. Abigail was really mean to her. You should've seen Nora's face. She looked like she wanted to find a hole and crawl into it. She was so embarrassed."
"Abigail can be a mean — mean woman", capturing a breast in his mouth. Marion gasps.
"You should talk to her, Ben", enjoying the feel of his tongue circling her nipple.
"Talk to Abigail? Why would I want to do that?" He says through the suckling. "She's John's problem. He apologized for her."
"No — silly — Nora. You should talk to Nora. Check on how she's doing. She respects you, Ben."
"I don't want to talk about Abigail and I certainly don't want to talk about my little sister right now", kissing down her flat stomach.
"Ben –"
"Nora will be fine. I'll talk to her", he says breathlessly.
Dropping to his knees, Ben takes the hot pink toes into his mouth and she is immediately goose flesh. He slowly tends to each toe and Marion strokes his hardness with her other foot. With eyes closed, she leans back in the chair and spread her legs wide as he makes his way up her thigh and toward his destination.
XXX
Although Olivia misses the direct contact she had with the people her foundation served over the years, she is excited about the broader impact she can have by working for Bryson Foods. All the research she has done on philanthropy programs indicate that companies rarely coordinate their philanthropic efforts. Companies usually have multiple people working on various social programs as part of their Corporate Social Responsibility strategy. It is unusual for one person to oversee it all, and that makes Olivia feel honored that Fred Bryson has entrusted her with so much responsibility. She will not take the opportunity for granted.
As she drives to the community center located in the Roosevelt neighborhood, she wonders how the leaders of some of the city's non-profit organizations are going to receive her recommendation. When her foundation was struggling financially, she certainly would not have been interested in hearing what she is going to propose to the people who have invested so much of themselves and for so many years to build their organizations.
As she pulls into the community center's parking lot, she groans when a light starts to flash on the dashboard. She hopes there is nothing wrong with the car and she silently prays that she can get home safely after the meeting. Fitz will have to take the car to the dealer, so they can figure out what is wrong. She is too busy to sit in a waiting room.
XXX
A tinge of sadness washes over Olivia as she stands at the front of the small room studying the faces of the audience. Some look sad and dejected while others look excited and hopeful at the prospect of receiving funding to keep their organizations open. She knows many of the people in the room because over the years she has attended conferences with them, worked with them on joint projects, and competed against them for corporate donations and city grants. She knows that they are all good and dedicated people who want to help their communities. But the current environment is not good for small non-profits. Corporate sponsorships and donations have decreased dramatically, and many of the groups are barely making ends meet. She knows how difficult it is to maintain a non-profit without sufficient funding. It was not long ago that she was unsure how she was going to eke out enough money each month to pay the rent, utilities, and Mona. Some months only one of those obligations was met. But now she must think and act like an executive who represents a multi-billion-dollar company. She must spend Fred Bryson's money wisely.
"You are all well aware that corporations have been leaving the city for several years now — and taking with them their money that was once earmarked to support the surrounding communities."
"What is your husband doing about economic development for this city? What is he doing to stop businesses from fleeing the city?" Grayson Williamson, the president of One Step at a Time, a program that supports those addicted to drugs.
"I don't represent the city - I am her on behalf of Bryson Foods. I am here this morning to explain Bryson Foods philanthropy program and how some of you can benefit from it."
"Well — get to it, Mrs. Grant." Grayson demands.
Grayson Williamson is uninterested in being placated again. He has attended many meetings like this over the years where the so-called do-gooders come in, dangle their checkbooks, then walk away leaving behind nothing more than a promise. He is tired of the game. His organization is floundering, and the last thing he wants to hear are more promises.
"Each of you is trying to combat the problems in your communities - in your own way — and you have done great work over the years. But as I said — corporate sponsorship has slowed to a trickle and the city grants are getting harder to secure."
"I bet her husband makes sure her foundation still gets grants from the city", somebody mumbles, but Olivia ignores the comment.
"You said some of us can benefit from Bryson's largesse", Ken Wentworth, the Executive Director of Healthy Kitchens asks. What does that mean, Mrs. Grant?"
"Bryson Foods has criteria that each of you must meet in order to receive funding. The list of criteria is on the sheet of paper handed to you when you entered the meeting. Solvency is the number one criterion. Unfortunately - some of the organizations represented here today are so far in the red – they have become less than effective. Those organizations have the option of seeking funding elsewhere — or consider closing their operations."
"Who the he'll do you think you are coming down here and telling us we have to close our organizations?" Grayson shouts.
"I'm not telling anyone they have to do anything. I am saying that Bryson Philanthropy cannot fund organizations that have no chance of becoming solvent."
"This is more bullshit", Grayson yells, snatching his jacket from the chair next to him and angrily stomps toward the door. Several others follow him when they realize they do not qualify to receive funding.
Olivia learned from her husband to begin negotiations on a soft note, then move on to tougher tactics if the discussions start to disintegrate.
"I know this is difficult -"
"I am tired of these elite billionaires telling us what is best for our communities", an angry voice yells out from the back of the room.
"Who the hell do those fat cats think they are — claiming they alone can solve all our problems?" Another voice chimes in.
"Do they think we're supposed to fall for their game just because they send a face like yours down here? Give me a break", Diane yells out from the front row.
"Diane - I'm not asking you to fall for anything. You of all people know that the corporate donations we have all come to rely on are no longer here.
"So - what do you have to say on behalf of Bryson Foods, Mrs. Grant?' Stephen Trainor shouts. Stephen is the president of Building Second Chances, an education program for ex-offenders.
"It is no longer effective to have so many organizations scrambling for so few dollars."
"So - what are you saying, Mrs. Grant?" Stephen persists. Olivia has done her homework; the data are irrefutable.
"In this room alone — there are five groups that are focused on education — six are focused on health — and three are focused on income issues. The effectiveness of your groups is diluted by you all working in silos. I believe the most important thing your groups can do is to coordinate your efforts. So — I'm suggesting — if you want to become more financially sound and better serve your communities — that some of you merge your organizations to build a coalition. By working together - you'll be better positioned to reach more of the people you want to help."
Olivia braces herself for the backlash. She knows that she just touched the third rail. Asking groups that typically compete for funds to now work together is unthinkable.
"Merge? Have you lost your damn mind? For the past seven years I've poured blood, sweat, and tears into my foundation – and you want me to do what – walk away from it?" Willie Chambers, the Director of The Making a Way foundation shouts.
"I founded Crayons and Pencils 12 years ago, Olivia. I'm not about to hook up with anybody so they can tell me how to run my business", Berlinda says, folding arms across her chest.
The grumbling and shouting in the room reach a crescendo.
"I get it – I do. Each of you started your non-profit because you are passionate about your cause and have a unique vision for how to solve many of the city's problems. I get that. But it takes money to fix these problems – and there just isn't enough of it to go around."
"These kingpins claim they alone can solve all the problems in our communities. They make themselves out to be the Messiah. They make me sick", someone else spews their discontent.
"So — we either do what you want us to do and how you want us to do it or we can't have Bryson's money?" Someone shouts.
Talking is over.
"That's right, Manuela. You want to make sure that children have clothes - so they are not ashamed to go to school. Berlinda - you want to reduce — if not eradicate — illiteracy in the city. Stephen - you want to give ex-offenders a chance at a better life when they are released from prison. Can any of you do those things without donations from those kingpins?"
XXX
While Olivia meets with the leaders of the non-profits, Fitz happily fulfills his role as stay-at-home-dad. Today, he has a special surprise for the girls.
"Who wants to help make lunch?" Fitz asks, standing in the kitchen doorway and watching the girls play on the family room floor.
"I do – I do", Cena and Asha scream, jumping up and down with hands in the air. He cringes. They are so loud, it feels like his eardrums are ready to burst. Jolie raises her hands above her head and tries to jump up and down, too.
"Okay — go down the hall and wash your hands — then meet me in the kitchen."
A few minutes later, Cena and Asha run from the powder room with Bowtie following close behind. Jolie wobbles down the hall, too.
"Ready, daddy", Cena screams.
"Ready, Baaba."
"Let me see." The girls raise their hands in the air and Fitz rubs his chin, pretending to closely inspect their hands.
"Dada", Jolie says, finally finding her way into the kitchen and holding up her hands.
"Very good. Very good. Very good", he says as he checks the three sets of hands. "Climb onto your stools and follow my instructions. We're going to make rainbow grilled cheese sandwiches", setting Jolie into her high chair.
"Yeah", Cena and Asha scream as they scurry into their seats. They have never had rainbow grilled cheese sandwiches, but it sounds exciting. Sitting on their knees, with elbows resting on the granite island top, Asha and Cena anxiously await his instructions.
Fitz gives each girl a small bowl that contains various cheeses and seasonings. Asha and Cena peek into the bowls and examine the ingredients with great curiosity.
"We're daddy's sous chef", Cena says to Asha because she has experience helping her father in the kitchen.
"What's a sous chef?" Asha asks innocently.
"My special helper", Fitz says, opening the box of food color. "To make our rainbow sandwiches we're going to need some color", giving each girl a small bottle. He gives Cena a red bottle and Asha gets a purple bottle, their favorite colors. Fitz keeps the green bottle for himself. "Now watch what I do with my green bottle."
He adds one drop of the neon green food color to his bowl of cheese and stirs the mixture until the color is uniform. Cena and Asha stretch their necks, watching his every move. They are in awe of what they are seeing.
"Wow", they say simultaneously, eyes bugging out of their heads as they look at the green-colored cheese.
"I'm going to add another drop because I want my cheese to be darker green."
Fitz adds another drop of the green food color to the cheese mixture and the girls' mouths hang open in amazement.
"Now — each of you add one drop of your food color into your bowl."
Cena and Asha carefully add one drop of their food color into their bowls. Jolie stretches her neck trying to see what they are doing. She bangs her hand on the high chair tray in frustration.
"Baaba — JoJo wants to see."
Fitz pulls Jolie's chair closer to the granite island top, so she can have a better view of what the older girls are doing. She stretches her arm, trying to grab a bowl of cheese.
"You can't have cheese, Jo. You're allergic", Cena says.
"I'm allergic — too", Asha says.
Fitz looks up because he does not remember Olivia saying that Asha has a food or any kind of allergy. He makes a mental to ask her.
"Are you allergic to cheese?" Fitz asks, looking at Asha with concern.
"No — I'm allergic to medicine."
Fitz nods as he ties a bib around Jolie's neck. He sets a plastic bowl containing mashed tofu onto her tray and pours a little grape juice in the bowl. Jolie laughs when the tofu starts to change color. He places a small plastic spoon in Jolie's hand.
"Now - use your spoons to stir the mixture until it's all one color."
"Like this Baaba?" Asha asks, focusing intently on stirring the cheese. Fitz walks over and pretends to inspect her work.
"Very good, Asha. You're doing a terrific job", tousling her braids. She smiles.
"Daddy - can I add more red?" Cena asks, as she reaches for the bottle.
"Hmm - let me see", he says, inspecting Cena's bowl. "Do you want it darker?"
"Yes."
"Me too, Baaba. I want mine darker, too."
"Okay - you can both add one more drop. Keep stirring while I get the bread."
The girls continue to stir their mixture.
"Now this is how we're going to make our rainbow", Fitz says as he sets a slice of bread onto the granite island top.
He scoops a spoonful of the green neon cheese mixture from his bowl and spread it onto one-third of the bread. Then he takes Cena's spoon and scoops some of her red cheese mixture and spread it onto another third of the bread. Finally, he takes Asha's spoon and scoops the purple cheese mixture and spread it onto the remaining third of the bread. The girls' mouths and eyes are wide with wonder.
"Watch carefully how I put the second slice of bread on top of the cheese to make a sandwich."
The girls nod, mesmerized how the rainbow sandwich is beginning to take form.
"Now - I'm going spread a teaspoon of butter on the top slice of bread. Got it?"
The two girls nod again and Jolie nods, too.
"Now - you do it", handing each girl a slice of bread, their own ramekin of butter, and a plastic knife.
"Like this, daddy?"
"Perfect", he says.
"Baaba - is this right?"
"Brilliant. You two girls will be cooking dinner for me soon."
"I will grill the sandwiches because I never – ever want either of you to touch the stove. Do you understand?" Giving them his most serious look.
"Never – ever", they repeat in unison as he places the sandwiches into the frying pan.
As the sandwiches grill, Fitz prepares Jolie's bear toast. He trims the crust from the toast and spread a healthy amount of almond butter onto both slices of bread. He places sliced bananas onto the bread to make the eyes and a nose. For the eyes, he places a blueberry on top of two slices of bananas. He sets the bear toast onto the high chair tray and Jolie immediately grabs the nose and stuffs the banana slice into her mouth.
"Baaba – JoJo ate the bear's nose", Asha giggles as Fitz transfers the gooey sandwiches from the frying pan to individual plates. He sets a plate in front of each girl.
"Can we eat now, daddy?" Cena asks excitedly.
"Let's wait a minute until the cheese cools, Princess. I don't want you to burn your mouths."
Asha and Cena nod as they stare at the golden-brown sandwiches in anticipation. Fitz fills two miniature milk bottles with milk and drops a red straw into one bottle and a purple straw into the other bottle.
"Is it time, Baaba?" Asha asks, grabbing the milk bottle with the purple straw.
He looks at his watch and holds up an index finger, waiting for the second hand to reach 12.
"Now – it's time."
He cuts the first sandwich on the diagonal and Cena and Asha gasp.
"It's so pretty", Cena says, amazed at the sight of the rainbow-colored cheese.
"So pretty", Asha repeats, and Fitz smiles proudly. The cheese is set perfectly. It does not ooze in a gooey mess onto the plate.
"Eat up, girls. After lunch we're going to the park."
"Yay", Asha and Cena yell in unison. Jolie yells and claps her hands, too.
Cena and Asha grab their sandwiches and devour them like they have not eaten in days, and Jolie bangs her hand on the high chair tray again, trying to get her father's attention. She wants something to drink. He fills her sippy cup with almond milk and places it in her chubby hands. Jolie immediately brings the yellow cup to her mouth.
"I told you, Asha - my daddy could be your daddy, too", Cena says with a big smile as she nods her head up and down. With a mouthful of rainbow grilled cheese sandwich, Asha smiles up at Fitz and he returns the smile.
"This is so good, Baaba. You make the best sandwich ever."
"You make the best everything ever, daddy."
"The best everything ever", Asha repeats.
"I couldn't do it without the help from my favorite sous chefs", beaming proudly from the adulation.
"You mean better than my tacos?" Olivia asks, standing in the doorway with a hand on her hip. Cena and Asha look at Olivia with wide eyes, then back at each other, and burst into laughter. Jolie laughs, too.
"Don't be jealous, Fitz says, walking over to his wife and pecking her on the lips.
XXX
When Olivia arrived home from her meeting, she was upset about light that was still flashing on the dashboard. She did not know that the flashing red light simply meant that the car is due for its annual inspection. Nor did she know that her husband already made an appointment last month to take the car in for service.
Fitz arrived at the car dealer at 8:45 this morning for his nine o'clock appointment. When he arrived, the receptionist assured him that the inspection would not take more than an hour to complete. Three hours and two cups of horrible coffee later, he sits on the uncomfortable faux leather chair wondering why they schedule appointments if they do not honor them. He now wishes that he had opted to get a loaner car. He crosses his legs, looks down at his watch again, then opens his phone to continue reading the latest article on the city's opioid crisis. Deaths from opioid overdoses are on the rise.
XXX
Olivia has been working a lot of hours to implement the Bryson Philanthropy program and she has not spent as much time with the girls as she would like. Thinking about the rainbow grilled cheese sandwiches that Fitz made yesterday, Olivia decides to make the girls a special lunch as well. She stirs the ground beef in the frying pan and smiles as she listens to the Cena and Asha's chatter.
"My mommy makes the best tacos", Cena says as she dices the tomatoes with her safety knife.
"Better than Baaba's?" Asha asks, not realizing she has touched a sensitive nerve.
"Baaba doesn't make tacos", Olivia says flatly, as she squints at the recipe displayed on the tablet screen. She is using a different recipe today. "Asha — run into the family room and get my reading glasses off the coffee table — please."
"Okay, GoGo."
Asha climbs down from her stool and dashes toward the family room. She stops suddenly and expels the familiar children's refrain when they see something that should not be happening.
"Ooh", Asha says with eyes wide when she sees Jolie walking toward the huge flower pot and carrying GoGo's reading glasses. Startled by the sound of Asha's voice, Jolie turns with a look of surprise on her face.
"I'm telling GoGo", Asha yells, immediately running back into the kitchen. "GoGo — GoGo."
Cena looks over at her friend and wonders what has Asha so excited.
"What is it Asha?" Olivia asks, still trying to read the recipe on the tablet screen.
"GoGo — you have to come quick", Asha says with urgency as she looks up at Olivia with bulging eyes.
"What — "
"JoJo — "
Fearing the worst, Olivia drops the tablet onto the granite island top and takes off running. Cena jumps down from her stool and runs behind her mother with Bowtie in tow.
"Look, GoGo. JoJo has your glasses. She was going to put them behind the flower pot."
A stunned Jolie looks at her audience then waves her mother's reading glasses in the air.
"Jolie Alana Grant", Olivia says in a stern tone. "What are you doing with mommy's reading glasses?"
"Mom-mom. Mom-mom", Jolie says, laughing hysterically when she hears her name.
"Jo — you said mom-mom", Olivia says excitedly, sweeping up her baby and kisses her chubby cheek. Jolie squeals with pleasure. "Say mom-mom again, Jo. Say mom-mom again."
Realizing she is the center of attention, Jolie simply laughs as she gnaws on the red reading glasses.
"Jo – say mommy again", Cena directs her little sister.
"Look, GoGo", Asha says, pointing behind the flower pot.
Olivia's eyes widen when she peers behind the huge flower pot and sees all of her missing reading glasses and Fitz' car keys and ink pen. She frowns at the pile of dead ficus leaves and weeks of dust on the floor. Fitz has not vacuumed behind the flower pot.
"Jo — you're the culprit - you're a little stasher. When did you put those things back there?"
XXX
Fitz is still complaining about car dealer not honoring his service appointment this morning. He is going on and on about the three hours of his life that he will never get back. He is threatening to write a letter of complaint to the manager, or perhaps, to the president of the company.
"I'm going to write a letter to the manager of that service department, Liv. I had an appointment - which I made a month ago – yet I sat there all morning waiting for your car. They said it would be ready in an hour. I'm going to take it to a different dealer next time."
Olivia is not interested in talking about her car, she is still excited that Jolie has finally said mom-mom.
"Babe – guess what? Jo said mom – mom today. She called me mom-mom, Fitz." Olivia reports enthusiastically.
"That's good", he says with little interest as he tosses his watch onto the night table. He is still upset about his non-appointment.
"That's good? Is that all you can say?" Her enthusiasm somewhat deflated.
"Liv – you knew she was going to say it at some point", setting his phone onto the charger.
"You wouldn't say that if she said mom -mom first and you were waiting for her to say dada."
"Cena said also dada first, Liv. It's expected." She rolls her eyes because he is being so rational.
"By the way - I solved the mystery. Well Asha solved the mystery."
He looks at her curiously.
"The missing items. We found the missing items."
"My keys and ink pen, too?" Now interested in the information she is sharing with him tonight. "Where - who?"
"Babe – your Angel is a stasher?"
"Jo? No way — she can't be." Sitting down on the bed and looking at his wife in disbelief.
"She can - and she is."
Olivia slides the box containing the pilfered items from her night table and dumps the items onto the bed. Fitz shakes his head when he sees his car keys and his favorite Mont Blanc ink pen.
"Where did she hide them?" He asks, picking up the car keys from the bed.
"Behind that huge ficus tree. Babe — you haven't been vacuuming back there."
He furrows his brow, not sure what she is talking about.
"Fitz — if you were cleaning behind that flower pot you would've found our things weeks ago. You have to move things when you vacuum. There was so much dust and dead leaves back there. I had to vacuum – I had to do your job."
"Why vacuum behind things that nobody's going to see?" Setting the keys and ink pen into his night table drawer.
"You mean you haven't been vacuuming behind anything?" She asks in disbelief.
"No", unfazed by her reaction.
"Fitz – cleaning means that you move things – lift things. You have to clean behind the furniture. Do you vacuum under the sofa cushions?"
"No", he says nonchalantly.
Olivia places a hand over her face and shakes her head. She shudders at the thought of what might be under those cushions.
"Do you even know that the vacuum cleaner has attachments to use for getting into crevices — to clean the curtains and lamp shades?"
"It's not a big deal, Liv."
"Not a big deal? Babe – maintaining a house is about more than cleaning the areas you can see. What do you think will happen if you never lift or move things when you vacuum?"
He sighs. He has had a long day and the last thing he wants to discuss is house cleaning.
"You need a system, Fitz. I'm going to create a cleaning plan for you - detail how to clean every room of this house."
"Good night, Liv", pecking her on the cheek before turning off his lamp. She stares at his back thinking maybe she has been giving him too much credit. Maybe he cannot manage the girls and the house after all.