A/N: Hey, guess who's back? I know I'm really, really late, but I was a little busy. Life has calmed down and I now have time to resume this story. I hope you're still interested. This is a big chapter, so don't blink. Tell me what you think. Here we go!
Chapter 64. Choose
Chewing on the inside of her bottom lip, Olivia looks up at the number display as the elevator treks from the underground parking garage to the fifty-second floor of the skyscraper building. The trembling in her stomach intensifies with each passing floor and she is not sure if it is because the babies are more active this morning, or if it is the G-force pressure from the accelerating elevator, or maybe just plain nerves. Perhaps, it is a combination of all three. She rubs her stomach. Seventeenth floor.
She is physically and emotionally exhausted, sleep evaded her at every turn last night as she struggled to come to terms with Cena discovering that her parents are liars, and knowing she had to come into the office today to give Fred Bryson the quarterly update on the philanthropy program. She has been dreading this day for weeks. Twenty-sixth floor.
Images of Kelly's lifeless body stuffed into the black body bag fill her mind as she stares at the passing numbers. She shakes her head, knowing she will never forget the sound of the wobbly wheels rattling down the porcelain tile hallway as the EMTs rolled the gurney toward the elevator. She shivers as she glances around the enclosure wondering if this is the elevator that transported Kelly for the last time. Thirty-eighth floor.
As the elevator nears its destination, tears sting the back of her eyes and her breathing becomes shallow. Maybe I should have rescheduled the meeting with Bryson. Maybe I should have told Fitz how I've been feeling. She rapidly shakes her right hand and the silver bangles on her wrist jingle. She thinks about her mother. Quickly brushing the tears from her cheeks, she uses the technique she learned in birthing classes, gently and slowly inhaling small amounts of air through her nose then slowly exhaling. The bell dings. Fifty-second floor.
When the doors slide open, she straightens her back and exits the elevator. Her pace is rapid as she hurries down the porcelain tile hallway to her office. She does not allow herself to look in the direction of the women executives' restroom. She will now use the restroom on the 51st floor.
XXX
Fitz glances around the dermatologist's waiting room thinking the space is named appropriately. His appointment was for nine o' clock and he has been waiting for 45 minutes to see the doctor. He is tempted to leave but Olivia scheduled the appointment because she thinks the mole on his lower back has changed in appearance. Although his annual whole-body scan is only a month away, Olivia insisted he not wait until August. The receptionist glances across the waiting room at Mr. Grant shaking his crossed leg. He is obviously annoyed because Dr. Alexander is running behind schedule again.
"Mr. Grant – the doctor will be with you shortly."
The quick nod of the head and tight smile indicate he is upset, she told him the same thing a half-hour ago. He hates wasting time. He hates even more when other people waste his time. Ignoring the No Talking on Cell Phone sign, he pulls the phone from his pocket. He feels justified.
XXX
When Maura arrived at the house this morning, she could tell immediately that there is tension between her granddaughter and Asha. The two were not their usual chatty and rambunctious selves. In fact, they hardly interacted. Jolie, on the other hand, is as happy as a clam, sitting on her grandmother's lap and playing hand games. Maura looks up from her babbling granddaughter and smiles when Asha walks into the room.
"And who is that?" Maura asks, eyeing the toy Asha is holding in her hand.
"His name is Freddy - he's my robot. My mommy bought him for me."
"A robot? Isn't that interesting. What does he do?"
"He talk to me. Mommy say he keep me company when she go out at night."
"I see. Can you show me what he says?" Patting the sofa cushion next to her. Asha nods and climbs onto the sofa to demonstrate Freddy's talents. Jolie reaches for Freddy.
"Don't touch him, Jo – he's mine", Asha snaps, pulling Freddy away from Jolie's prying hands. Maura frowns.
"What time is it, Freddy?" Asha asks the robot.
"Asha - it is 11:47 a.m.", Freddy replies in a monotone voice.
"See – he knows my name", Asha says with a smile.
"What else does he say?" Maura asks, intrigued by the robot. "Oh - I think Baaba has come home", looking over her shoulder when she hears the alarm system chime. "Can you show me later what else Freddy says?" Asha nods her head up and down and climbs down from the sofa to greet Baaba.
"It's not Baaba, Grams – it's GoGo", Asha yells when she sees Olivia walking into the house.
"I thought you were Fitzgerald", Maura says as her exhausted daughter-in-law walks into the family room.
"Fitz won't be home for a while, Maura - he's having a complete body scan today. Dr. Alexander always runs behind schedule."
"I see. Is the heat bothering you, dear?"
"Hello, Asha. Why don't you go play with Cee?" Brushing a hand over the little girl's cheek.
"Cena don't wanna to play."
"Well go play with Bowtie for a while."
"Okay", climbing down from the sofa with Freddy pressed close to her chest.
"Give mommy a kiss, Miss Jo." Jolie puckers her slobber-covered lips and laughs.
"Maura - going into the office today was more difficult than I thought it would be. The memories of that day came flooding back almost immediately. I barely got through my update with Fred."
"I'm sorry, Olivia."
"Maura - today reminded that I'm still angry with Kelly."
"She was sick, Olivia."
"I know. I know. There had to be a better way, Maura. Kelly shouldn't have died alone in a bathroom – and with a needle in her arm for god's sake. Something needs to be done, Maura. Too many children are orphaned because their parents are addicted to or have died from opioids. I told Fred I'll be working with a community group to propose legislation for safe injection sites. He's supportive – of course."
Maura strokes her décolleté, wondering if this is a good time to raise what she has thinking for the past few weeks.
"Olivia — I've been thinking."
"What is it, Maura?""
"Well— I've been thinking — with Nora now living in Portland — I'll have a lot of free time on my hands. That house is too big for just Gerry and me - it could use some life in it. I've raised a little girl", she adds quickly. "I would love to take Asha — raise her as our own."
Olivia mouth falls open as she stares at her mother-in-law in shock.
XXX
Olivia half-heartedly performs her nightly routine, slowly massaging the prestige cream up and down her arm. She is tired. Looking up when her husband stomps from the bathroom, she set the jar onto the night table.
"What did Dr. Alexander say about the mole?"
"It's nothing. I told you it was nothing. I could've waited for my annual checkup next month", digging into his drawer for a pair of lounge pants.
"You can't be too safe, babe. You need to use more sunscreen." With back turned to her, he rolls his eyes.
"I couldn't make an appointment for Asha to see the dentist or Dr. Jordan", he says angrily.
"Wait – what? You made a doctors' appointments for Asha?" Stunned by his announcement.
"I said I couldn't. I was told I need proof of kinship or custody."
"When did you do this?"
"While I was at Dr. Alexander's office. I needed to do something while I waited."
"Fitz – we need to talk about this."
"We need to protect her rights, Liv — protect our rights."
"We don't have any rights, Fitz", her anger is building.
"And that's the problem – we can't take her to the doctor – hell we won't be able to enroll her in school in a few months. I'm calling John in the morning", pacing around the room.
"School? Why do you need to call John?"
"We need to discuss getting legal custody of Asha."
"Legal custody?"
"Yes. Asha needs to feel safe and we need to make decisions on her behalf."
"You need to slow down - we haven't discussed this."
"I need you to back me on this, Liv. We have to do right by that little girl", his eyes pleading with her. Olivia rubs her forehead wondering when the nightmare will end.
"John is out of town", she says with resignation and he gives her a how-do-you-know look. "I talked to Abby – he's away on business and won't be back until next week."
"Then we'll meet with him when he returns", pecking her on the lips before turning off his lamp.
She stares at him in the dark, and a half-hour later she slides out of bed and goes downstairs.
XXX
"Livvia, I was just telling your father I didn't think I was going to hear from you this evening. How are you doing?"
"Mom –my marriage is falling apart."
"What's the matter, Livvia? What has happened?"
"Fitz wants to get legal custody of Asha."
"Has Fitzgerald lost his mind?"
"I'm beginning to think so. I can't take much more of this, mom. I won't take much more. The girls are bickering almost every day and Fitz is seeing only what he wants to see. It's too much."
"Listen to me, Livvia – it's time to shut this down. Your health and the health of my unborn grandbabies are the most important things you should be thinking about. Fitzgerald needs to understand his family comes first."
"That's the problem, mom - my husband doesn't seem to understand that. Even Cena has begun to withdraw from him. Things are bad."
"You're his wife, Livvia - you know Fitzgerald better than anyone. You can help him come around to your way of thinking. If you need your father and I to come home – we'll be on the first plane out of Dakar. Just say the word."
"Thanks, mom."
XXX
Everyone except Asha is dressed in swimming gear and is eager to take a dip in the pool. She is wearing a pair of olive-green shorts, a yellow tank top, and green flip-flops. Carrying Jolie around his neck, Fitz leads the way down the brick paver walkway that leads to the pool and Cena skip-walk trying to keep pace with her father's strides. They are ager to get in the cool pool. Asha dawdles behind the trio, she has yet to set foot into the water.
"May I get in, daddy?" Cena asks excitedly, already kicking off her red pool shoes.
"Remember the pool safety rules, Princess - no diving or jumping into the shallow end. And never-ever go into the deep part of the pool."
"Never-ever, daddy", Cena says, tossing the beach towel onto one of the nearby chairs then quickly scurrying toward the pool. Jolie points to her sister as Cena holds onto the handrail and carefully walks down the steps that lead to the shallow end of the pool. Asha sits in the purple Adirondack chair and opens her tablet.
"Would you like to get in the pool for a little while?" Fitz asks, trying to coax the water-averse girl into the pool. She shakes her head no.
"Okay - you let me know when you're ready", flashing her an encouraging smile. She smiles, too. "I'm going to take Jo in for a while", taking an eager Jolie by the hand and walking toward the pool.
Asha watches with great interest how gentle and caring Baaba is with Jolie. She watches him carefully slide the yellow goggles over Jolie's eyes. She watches him carry Jolie around the pool, letting her get accustomed to the water. She watches Jolie bounce up and down in his arms. Maybe she will get into the pool one day.
XXX
Olivia stares at the family photographs placed on the credenza behind the desk silently resenting Fitz for waking her early this morning. She wanted to sleep in late, in fact, she wanted to stay in bed all day, but her singularly focused husband had other plans. She glances around the office remembering the last time she and Fitz were here – shortly after Jolie was born. They needed to update their living wills and designate Bennie as Jolie's guardian. She rubs her stomach thinking they must assign a guardian for the twins as well.
"Olivia — you look lovely as usual. Can I get you something to drink?"
"Thanks, John - I'm fine. How's Abby? We're having lunch next week."
"My wife is as mean as a rattlesnake. If she doesn't have this baby soon I think Ethan and I will have to move in with mom and dad for a while." Olivia chuckles.
"And how is Ethan? The last time I saw him –"
"I don't mean to be rude — but I would like to get to why we are here." Fitz says curtly,
promptly halting the socializing. John eyes his brother then nods his head.
"Cool your jets, brother. We'll catch up later, Liv. All right - you said on the phone, Fitz that you wanted to discuss the little girl whose mother died recently."
"Asha — her name is Asha", Fitz says sharply. Taken aback again by his brother's demeanor, John looks at his brother for a moment then turns his attention to the yellow legal pad.
"Asha Forrester is the only child of the deceased — Kelly Forrester?" Olivia opens her mouth to answer, but Fitz responds quickly.
"Yes."
"Do you know if Kelly has any of end-of-life documents?" Directing the question to Olivia.
"No — I don't know. We went to her apartment to pick up a few things for Asha — I didn't see any legal papers — just bills and a few other things." She does not think John needs to know about the opioid pills she found in the bottom of Kelly's dresser drawer.
John nods as he scribbles notes on the pad.
"We want to keep Asha", Fitz interjects, quickly getting to the purpose of the meeting.
Stunned by the pronouncement, John leans back in his chair and stares at his brother in disbelief.
"What do you mean keep her?"
"Asha has become a part of our family — I don't want her uprooted. She's been through enough. We want to do whatever is necessary – get legal custody - to ensure she remains with us."
John looks at Olivia for her input, but she remains silent, twisting her wedding rings and staring at the family photographs.
"Liv — what's your position on this? You both have to be in this together."
"Asha has family out there somewhere, John. Kelly has a mother and siblings - too. Asha also has a father", she says softly. "I left our contact information with the superintendent of Kelly's building – I'm hoping someone will contact us soon."
With furrowed brow and reddened face, Fitz stares at his wife. He thought they were in agreement that Asha should stay with them. Feeling her husband's eyes burning a hole in the side of her head, Olivia continues quickly.
"If her family doesn't show up — if no one comes for her —well — Maura —your mother — said she would take her."
"What?" Fitz exclaims, springing to his feet.
"Oh — my god – you mean mom is in on this — too?", John says, tossing the ink pen onto the desk."
"Your mother –"
"I heard you the first time. Why the hell am I'm just hearing about it? How long have you and my mother been plotting this?"
"Calm down, Fitz", John says in an even tone.
"I haven't been plotting anything - your mother raised the possibility. I've not agreed to anything. I wouldn't make a decision like that without discussing it with you first. If we decide Asha should live with your mother - she will be nearby — she can still visit."
"Visit the place where she is unwanted?"
"That's not fair."
"Enough", John demands.
"None of this is fair. Asha has lost her mother and now you want to give her to my mother – who did such a great job raising Nora. What does she want to do — share her wisdom with Asha?"
"I said enough — goddamit", John shouts, abruptly standing from his chair and causing photographs on the credenza to topple.
"You're being cruel", Olivia responds, rubbing circles on her stomach. The babies are becoming anxious.
"I'm being honest."
"You see — this is what I deal with every day", Olivia says, pleading her case to John. "He's blind when it comes to Asha."
"You need to calm the hell down, Fitz – and you need to sit down so we can discuss this rationally."
"I don't want to sit down."
"Sit or stand — but you're going to listen to me."
The older brother asserts his familial authority and Olivia watch the two glare at each and John does not bat an eye. She glances at her husband because she has never seen him back down from anyone.
"What the hell are you two doing? Have you lost your goddamn mind, Fitz? You're a lawyer — president of city council — a goddamn officer of the court. You don't get to decide where that little girl lives. She's not Bowtie - there are laws. As much as you may care for her — you have no rights to her and neither of you can make decisions about what happens to her."
John tempers his tone before continuing.
"If the mother didn't leave a will or an advance directive regarding the care of Asha, the court will decide on a guardianship not custody — based on what's in the best interest of the child. Ideally - courts want to move a child into the care of a guardian she knows very well. This minimizes the disruption in her life at a traumatic time. But - family members are usually preferred - and they have the right to petition the court for the appointment."
"None of the family has shown up. How long are we supposed to wait for them?" Fitz asks with annoyance.
"Then you need to do your best to find them — I mean really look for them." Fitz sneers at the innuendo. John knows his younger brother well and he doubts that Fitz has put much effort into looking for the little girl's family.
"You know I don't practice family so I'll have Davidcheck the court records to see if Kelly filed a living will – durable power of attorney - et cetera. In the meantime - you two need to discuss this and decide if you both are in agreement about Asha. You two have to be in this together — as a couple - the courts won't consider it otherwise."
"I want to resolve this quickly — I don't want Asha to feel unsafe", giving Olivia a look that says it's time to go.
"You don't get to decide how quickly this is resolved", John shoots back.
"If you can't figure out how we can protect Asha then I will have to do it my damn self. Let's go, Olivia", grabbing his wife's hand and stomping toward the door. John shakes his head, thinking Fitz has been stubborn since they were kids. He wants what he wants.
XXX
With jaw clenched tight Fitz stares at the number display as the elevator descends from the twenty-eighth floor. When the elevator reaches the ground floor and the doors slide open Fitz pulls Olivia across the lobby.
"Babe — you have to calm down — and slow down", walking as quickly as she can to keep pace with his long strides.
"You blindsided me in there", continuing to pull her along with him.
"I did no such thing", snatching her hand from his and stopping in the middle of the lobby. He turns and glares at her.
"You did —you know you did", taking a step toward her. "You agreed to support me on this. I don't know what's wrong with you — why are you against Asha living with us?"
"One – I didn't agree to anything – you tried to bulldoze me into agreeing with you. Two – Asha has a family - why can't you get that through your head?" Remembering where they are, Olivia lowers her voice.
"Because she needs us. Because I'm her Baaba and that's not just a term of endearment. Don't you think she's wondering what will happen to her — where she's going to live now that her mother is dead?"
Passersby sneak peeks at the council president and his wife having a heated discussion in the middle of the lobby.
"Sister — are you all right? Is everything okay here?" The stranger asks, looking at Olivia then glancing sharply at Fitz. Stunned by the unexpected intrusion, Olivia rubs her protruding belly. "Are you all right? Is this man bothering you?"
"This man is her husband", Fitz snaps, taking a step toward the stranger. He is locked and loaded.
"Fitz."
"Her husband?" Looking at Olivia then back at Fitz. "Then you ought to treat your pregnant wife better – especially in public", the stranger says before walking away.
"Who the hell do you think you are?"
"Fitz - please."
"Let's go", grabbing her hand again and walking quickly from the building toward the car. He opens the passenger door then stomps around to the driver's side. They ride home in silence, each fuming about the morning's events.
XXX
Olivia has not seen Abby since the funeral, between her unstable home life and the job, there has been too much to juggle. She needs a break. Visiting Abby always provide her a bit of comic relief.
"Before we get to the juicy stuff – don't forget I'm hosting the playdate this month for all those crumb snatchers. The seventeenth."
"Got it on my calendar", Olivia says, holding up her cell phone. "So - how are you feeling, Abbs? You're due in a couple of months."
"I'm fat but I'm fine – thanks for asking. I'm due before you— but you look like you're ready to explode any minute."
"That's because I'm having twins."
"I like the hair - by the way. I saw the new do at the funeral - chic. How does Fitzgerald like it?"
"He didn't at first. He says he likes it now."
"That man would love you if you were bald."
"I'm not too sure about that, Abby", running her fingers through the side of her hair thinking about another argument they had last night. It seems like all they do these days is argue.
"How about that Nora and Gerry? I can't believe they're travel partners."
"Maura says Gerry has stayed in Portland longer than she expected."
"That woman is going to need something to do now that she no longer has Nora to hover over."
"I suppose", Olivia says, not wanting to share that Maura has volunteered to take Asha.
"So - she wants to raise Asha - ain't that a hoot?" Olivia arches her brow. "John told me", waving her hand dismissively in the air.
"I don't want to discuss it now, Abby. It's a sensitive topic in my house."
"Your husband can be a bully when he wants something, Olivia. He's a lot like Gerry - no offense."
"None taken."
"Fitzgerald might be trying to get that fifth child he used to go on and on about at those Grant Sunday dinners. Don't let him push you into doing something you don't want, Olivia."
"How are things with you and John?" Not so deftly changing the subject.
"Better — getting better. I have a good husband— a good life — and I was about to lose it all because I couldn't let go of my past."
"John loves you, Abby."
"I pushed him too far this time, Olivia. He was ready to end it. I had to agree to couple's counseling. Where I come from — people don't believe in that crap — spilling your heart to a total stranger. You keep everything inside – suck it up. But the stuff begins to seep out after a while."
"So - is counseling helping?"
"Surprisingly it is. Jonathan is all into it – of course. It took me a while to warm up to the quack — but I'm more comfortable now. Jonathan and I now discuss our issues on a much deeper level. He doesn't let me get away with half the shit I used to do."
"I'm happy for you, Abbs", sliding a hand across the plush sofa and caressing her friend's hand. "I better get going", standing and grabbing her purse from the coffee table.
"I meant what I said, Olivia - don't let Fitzgerald push you around. Speak up for yourself. Taking on someone else's child is admirable – but it's also a lot of work."
XXX
In her childlike way Cena has begun to rebel, rejecting her father's attempts to include her in the children's activities. She no longer wants to go to the park and ring the rocks or go to the farm and pick fruit and vegetables. She would rather stay close to her mother.
"She's isolating herself. The things she once loved doing she no longer wants to do", he says while washing the dinner dishes.
"Why do you think Cee is more resilient than Asha?"
"What do you mean?" Looking over his shoulder at his wife who is sitting at the island.
"You overly indulge Asha - but you expect Cee to simply suck it up."
"Asha just lost her mother, Liv."
"And in Cee's mind she has lost her father."
"That's ridiculous - Cena knows that I love her – that she's special to me.
"Does she, Fitz?"
"I've been with Cee since she was born - Asha has never had a father."
"Is that our daughter's fault?" Staring at him with frustration. I'm going to bed – I
have an early meeting with Grayson tomorrow. Will you be okay alone with the girls?"
"Of course," - he says with a slight edge in his voice.
"You need to hire a plumber", frowning at the puddle of water on the floor before leaving the kitchen.
XXX
As the girls eat their lunch, Fitz leans against the old sink looking at his daughter and thinking about what Olivia said last night. She is right, it is natural for Cena to be confused about the changes in their home since Asha started living with them full time. He took it for granted that she would understand the attention he shows Asha, but she is just little girl.
"Guess what we're going to do today?" He asks cheerfully, but Cena continues to look down at the half-eaten sandwich on her plate.
"What, Baaba?" Asha asks excitedly, displaying her gappy smile.
"We haven't been in the pool in a few days – and it's going to be really – really hot today - sooo we're going to spend all afternoon in the pool", glancing over at his solemn daughter. He knows she loves swimming more than anything. Cena looks up at her father and smiles and Asha looks down at the swirling pattern in the granite island top and pout. "But we must wait one hour after we finish lunch", smiling at his daughter when he repeats Olivia's rule. Cena returns the smile.
One hour later they are all dressed in their swim attire and walking down the path toward the pool. Fitz is wearing a pair of navy-blue trunks and a gray tee-shirt. A sleeping Jolie is wearing a yellow and polka-dot swimsuit, Cena is wearing a red- and white-striped bathing suit, and Asha is wearing a purple bathing suit with pink ruffles at the shoulders and hips. She may get in the water today.
"May I get in the pool, daddy?"
"Remember the safety rules, Princess", placing Jolie in the safety crib.
"Okay, daddy", Cena replies, already walking down the pool steps.
"Are you ready?" Fitz asks, patiently waiting in the water for the little girl to find her courage. Panic fills Asha's big brown eyes and he gives her an encouraging nod. She nervously dips a foot into the cool water and Fitz outstretches his arms for her to come to him.
"Look at me, daddy", Cena yells, swimming around the pool like a fish. Asha looks over at Cena, who seems to be having a lot of fun.
"That's wonderful, Princess", briefly glancing over at his daughter then quickly turning his attention to the skittish Asha.
"Baaba — I'm scared", Asha says shakily.
"Come to me - I won't ever let anything happen to you", stretching his arms toward her. Asha stands at the pool's edge, closes her eyes, taking a leap of faith into his waiting arms.
"Catch me, Baaba."
"Daddy, daddy - I can swim on my back", Cena yells again, effortlessly doing the backstroke the way he taught her. But her father does not hear her because he is congratulating Asha on her first foray into the water.
"That was terrific - you're going to be swimming before the end of the summer."
"Really? Like Cena?" Excitement filling her eyes as her arms cling tightly around his neck.
"Maybe not like Cena – not right away. Cena has been swimming for a very long time."
After a half-hour of wading around the pool, he feels Asha relax in his arms. He smiles when she bends down and scoops a handful of water and tosses it onto him. He splashes her with a little water and she flinches, stiffening in his arms again. Her eyes fill with tears.
"It's all right, sweetheart", brushing the water from her face. "I think that's enough for today. We'll continue tomorrow."
Asha nods her head as he carries her over to the pool's deck and grabs a towel from a chair. He wraps the towel around her shivering body.
"That was fun, Baaba", squinting up at him.
"I told you it wouldn't be so bad. You stay in your chair while I go to the house and get our drinks. Never-ever go into the water unless I am with you. Do you understand?"
"Never-ever, Baaba", her small hands holding the towel tightly around her shoulders.
"Cee — I'm going into the house to get our drinks - remember— no swimming in the deep end", he reminds her before lifting Jolie from the crib and walking toward the house.
Using her hands like oars, Cena glides farther and farther across the pool, slowly making her way to the deep end.
"Don't go over there, Cena. Baaba said never-ever go to the deep part", Asha yells from her chair. Bowtie is now on his feet staring at his friend swim farther and farther away.
Cena ignores her Nervous-Nellie nemesis and continues kicking her feet and gliding through the water.
"Cena -you're going to drown and die. I'm gonna tell Baaba", flinging the towel to the ground and running frantically toward the house.
"Baaba, Baaba - Cena's swimming by herself."
Fitz looks down at the panic-stricken girl, trying to process what she is saying. Asha grabs his hand, trying to pull him toward the door that leads to the backyard.
"Slow down, Asha. What's the matter?" Continuing to fill the colorful plastic cups with juice.
"Cena is swimming in the deep part. You said not to go there", she adds for emphasis. "Hurry, Baaba - she's going to drown and die."
Fitz grabs Jolie from the granite island top and runs through the French doors, down the deck, and toward the pool where he sees Cena happily playing in the deep end of the pool. Bowtie barks, perhaps his attempt to warn his friend.
"I told you, Baaba", Asha the Tattler says, pointing to Cena who is now in deep water.
"Cena. Nicole. Grant. Get over here this instant."
Cena's arms stop mid stroke and her body grows tense, she does not need to see her father's face to know that he is mad, beet red mad. She swims over to the edge of the pool and looks up her father through goggle-covered eyes. "
Get out of the water — now!"
Bottom lip trembling like her mother's, Cena walks up the pool steps, stands in front of her father, and looks down at the puddle of water forming around her feet.
"Look at me. Didn't I instruct you to never-ever go into the deep end. Didn't I?"
Twisting her fingers, a steady stream of tears rolls from under her goggles as she looks up at her father.
Answer me."
"Yes, daddy", now crying uncontrollably.
"Why did you disobey me?"
Cena shrugs her shoulders.
"Go to your room and get out of that wet bathing suit. Don't you dare come downstairs until I give you permission. Do. You. Understand?"
"Cee – Cee", Jolie says, clapping her hands. She does not understand that her sister is in trouble.
"Yes, daddy", pulling the goggles from her face as she runs into the house. Bowtie runs after her.
XXX
Olivia is exhausted when she enters the house, she spent the entire day with Grayson and his team brainstorming ideas for getting safe injection sites on the docket when city council resumes in September. She smiles down at her growling stomach and wonders what Fitz has prepared for dinner tonight.
"Hi, babe", pecking him on the cheek. "Hello, Asha. Where's Cee?" Her eyes quickly scanning the room.
"In her room - she won't be coming down any time soon", Fitz says grumpily.
"GoGo, Cena went into the deep water and Baaba yelled at her. She has to stay in her room."
Olivia stares at Asha trying to decipher what she is saying. She looks to her husband for an explanation.
"Fitz –"
"We'll discuss it later."
"We certainly will", she says sternly, picking up Jolie before going to check on her daughter. She is tired of coming home and finding Cena alone in her room.
XXX
Olivia is not interested in performing her nightly routine, in fact, she wanted all the evening activities to end quickly so she could get to the bottom of what happened with Cena today. She looks over her shoulder when her husband walks into the bedroom and sets the jar of cream onto her night table.
"Close the door", she says with an edge to her voice. "What happened around here today? Why was Cena in her room again when I got home?"
"She was disobedient - so I sent her to her room", unfastening his watch and tossing it onto his night table.
"Disobedient? You've never had to send Cee to her room. What happened?"
"She went into the deep end of the pool - she knows better. Who knows what could've happened if Asha hadn't come into the house and told me?" Pulling the tee-shirt over his head. Olivia closes her eyes, struggling to find the right words for their worsening situation.
"When adversity comes into our lives — it can be the glue that bonds us together or the wedge that drives us apart."
"Excuse me?" Giving her a curious look as he steps out of his cargo pants.
"Since Kelly died our house has become a war zone."
"You know children fight one day and the next day they're friends, Liv", dismissing her concern.
"Don't pretend what's going on here is just normal childhood behavior."
"Are you saying that Asha is a problem?"
"I'm saying we're not equipped to handle this situation. I'm saying things around here are out of control. I'm saying you need to find Asha's grandmother – and don't you dare tell me the FBI can't find her. I'm no fool." Her ire is rising.
"Dammit, Olivia — our daughter could have drowned out there today."
"Cee is upset - her whole world has changed. She overheard us agreeing to lie about Kelly – something we tell her she mustn't do. She thinks she is losing her father to her best friend – and now she's being punished at every turn. She's confused by everything that is happening around here."
"She doesn't get a pass because she's upset or confused. The disobedience and withdrawing has to stop" tossing his clothes into the hamper.
"And you have to stop being a hypocrite." She is fed up with the whole matter.
"What the hell are you talking about?"
"Cena has never swum in the deep end before. She has always obeyed you - but she sees the double-standard you have for her and Asha."
"You're the hypocrite."
"What are you talking about?" Wondering how she has become the center of the discussion.
"You bend over backwards to do for strangers — people you don't know —but this little girl -who you do know — you have no heart for. You turn your back on her."
"You pompous … It's called doing my job - and I won't allow you to shame me for doing it."
"You made it clear from the beginning you didn't want Asha here."
"Don't you dare twist my words. I said from the beginning that she needs to be with her family –her grandmother — and I still believe that."
"Even after I told you what kind of mother the woman was to her own children? What the hell is wrong with you?"
"She needs to know her personal heritage - where she came from. You can't give that to her and you can't cheat her out of learning about it. With all the Grant traditions - you should be the first person to want that for her."
"Kelly kept Asha from her family — apparently with good reason."
"People change, Fitz. How do you know Kelly's mother hasn't changed after all these years?"
With arms folded across his chest, he glares at her from across the room and she returns the look. One way or another the situation will be settled tonight.
"Liv - don't you get it - Asha was sent to us? If we're lucky the family we have and the family we find can become one in the same."
"Stop it - just stop it. You're driving me crazy - I can't take it any longer. Why are you willingly putting us through this? Why are you bent on destroying our family?"
Stunned by her outburst, he stares at her with mouth agape.
"What price are you willing to pay to get what you want? Tell me — what are you willing to sacrifice in order to —to — I don't know what you're trying to do."
"Liv — "
"You are blind when it comes to Asha. You don't see the damage you're doing to your own family. I know it's not her fault and I know it's unfair to her - she didn't choose any of this — but neither did we – neither did Cee."
The babies start to move so she speaks slowly, without inflection.
"She needs us, Liv."
"I know you've grown attached — that you want to keep her — but this isn't just about you. It's about all of us. This has to work for all of us — and right now it's not. You've seen how things have changed around here. Look at us — we're arguing more than ever. We can't sacrifice our family, Fitz. We agreed we wouldn't do that again. We agreed we wouldn't put anyone or anything before our family."
"It takes a village, Liv", he says sadly, and she shakes her head no.
"There are other people who live in the village, Fitz. We're not the only ones who can give Asha what she needs."
"What do you want, Olivia. Do you want me to send her to foster care — send her to strangers? Will that make you happy?" His anger is resurfacing.
"Your mother will take Asha."
"I'm not discussing that", he says angrily.
"Well you better discuss it because our home is falling apart – our marriage is falling apart. I won't live in this house much longer – not like this. You have to choose", glaring at him as she unconsciously rubs her protruding stomach.
"What?"
"You heard me - you have to choose your family or –"
"What are you saying?"
"I will take the girls and I will leave. I won't risk losing these babies because you won't listen – because you're being stubborn." The promise knocks him back on his heels and he looks like a deer caught in the headlights.
"You said you wouldn't leave again", his voice low and unrecognizable.
"Don't you understand what I'm saying to you? It's all too much for me. Kelly's death. The night terrors. The bickering. Your controlling behavior. It doesn't stop. I feel like … She grabs her side when one or both babies give her a swift kick.
"Livvie - what is it? What's the matter?" He's at her side immediately.
"I know you want to keep her ..."
"Sit down", he says with concern, guiding her over to the bed. "Are you okay? Do you want to go the hospital?" Resting a hand on her stomach.
"I'm scared, Fitz." He looks in her eyes and realizes the darkness is returning.
"I understand. I understand", pulling her onto his lap and cradling her head.
"You say you understand but you're doing everything to keep her. I'm sorry — I just can't do it."
"You have nothing to be sorry for", pressing his lips to the top of her head.
"I need peace in this house and I don't want you looking at me like I'm a monster — like I'm a horrible person."
"I'll do no such thing. Just relax – calm down", pressing his lips to her temple.
They sit in silence for the next few minutes, she rests her head on his shoulder and he admonishes himself for not seeing how his actions have affected his wife.
"I don't want see her in foster care, Liv - the system will destroy her. She deserves better."
"I know. I know. I don't want that either", brushing the back of her hand across her cheek.
"I need a little time to figure out what to do – time to figure out who is the lesser of two evils - my mother or Asha's grandmother. Can you give me a little time?"
She nods her head and he lift her chin and looks into her tear-filled eyes.
"I'm sorry" strumming his fingers gently on her face. "You can't leave, Liv. We won't survive it this time."
"I know. I don't want to leave - but I don't want you ignoring my voice."
"I'm sorry. I just wanted to do the right by her."
"You have to listen to me, Fitz. We have to use the tools Avril taught us to make the major decisions together."
"I know. I know." Silence fills the air for a few more minutes. "How about we go up to the lake house for a while - I think it will do us all good to get away. Can you take off from work?"
"I can."
"How about we meet with the contractors before we go? The nursery can be done by the time we return - the kitchen can be remodeled as well. Would you like that?"
"Don't forget your gym", she says with a slight smile.
XXX
Standing at the bottom of the staircase rapidly tapping the palm of his hand on the newel post, Fitz wishes he had a dollar for every minute he has waited for his wife over the years. He still cannot understand why it always takes her so long to get ready. She blames her slowness on the pregnancy, but he recalls waiting for her to get ready when they were dating.
"Come on, Liv - it's time to go", trying to contain his frustration.
"I'm coming."
"You have everything you need up at the house." She rolls her eyes thinking he does not know what she needs.
"Put the girls in the truck Fitz," she yells, hurrying back into the walk—in closet to retrieve her large round sunglasses.
"The girls are in the truck. Bowtie is in the truck. Everyone is in the truck except you."
"Baby Boy - Baby Girl — get used to your daddy's yelling — he does that a lot", smiling down at her stomach. With sunglasses in hand, she rushes back into the bedroom and checks that she has everything. Darn, remembering she needs her wide-brimmed straw hat.
"Olivia."
"Get in the truck, Fitz. Sheesh", hurrying back into the closet.
Olivia sighs when she sees the hatbox is stored on the top shelf an she dare not ask him to come upstairs to get it for her. She drags the step stool over to the column of shelves and stands on her tippy toes to retrieve the box and almost loses her balance. She quickly grabs ahold of the shelf. Shaken by what almost happened, she inhales and exhales deeply to steady her nerves. She slides the box from shelf, carefully climbs down the step stool, and slowly walks back into the bedroom. She scans the room one last time before heading downstairs.
"Ready", smiling brightly at her frustrated husband who is leaning against the passenger door with arms folded across his chest.
"I don't understand why it takes you so long to get ready", opening the door and helping her into the truck.
"I'm pregnant, Fitz – with twins. Buckle me in", pushing the seatbelt toward him.
XXX
Fitz was right, they all needed to get away. Eight days at the lake house and Olivia has done little more than lay on the chaise lounge reading and napping. She went into town once with Fitz and the girls but stays home with Jolie when they go bicycling or hiking. As she tries to teach her disinterested daughter how to count, she feels a little sad because in a few days they will return to reality.
"Say one, Jo", trying to coax her baby girl into repeating after her. Jolie shakes her head no and pulls at the brim of her mother's hat. "Jo, say one."
Jolie hears the giggles and looks over at the trio preparing to get in the lake. She stretches her arms toward her father.
"Dada. Dada."
"Babe – put more sunscreen on the girls - they've been in and out of the water all day. You put on more, too", yelling orders from the comfort of the chaise lounge.
He nods and rubs the cream onto Cena then Asha's arms.
"Don't forget the ears - tops of feet – and backs of the neck and the hairline." He frowns because he knows how to apply sunscreen on the girls. He does it whenever they are at the pool or out for a long day.
Olivia tries to resume Jolie's counting lesson, but she is distracted by the yelling coming from the lake.
"Daddy, daddy - come up, daddy", Cena screams in panic.
"Baaba, Baaba— where are you, Baaba?"
Fitz resurfaces behind the girls, growling like a monster from the deep and the two girls scream and take off running from the water. Olivia smiles at the sight and Jolie claps her hands squealing dada.
"Mommy - daddy scared us", Cena says, doubling over with laughter as she runs toward her mother.
"GoGo — Baaba pretended he was a monster and he grabbed us. It was so funny - right, Cena?" Unable to speak from laughing so hard, Cena nods her head up and down.
"I saw", Olivia says, lifting her sunglasses from her face and smiling up at the excited little girls. "Watch out - here comes the monster", pointing in the direction of her husband walking toward them with hands poised in the air like the Loch Ness monster.
"The monster's coming - let's run, Cena", Asha screams and the two girls take off running down the flagstone path toward the house.
"Dada. Dada", Jolie babbles, stretching her arms toward her father again. She does not want to be left out of the fun. Fitz lifts Jolie from his wife's lap and tosses the toddler in the air until she squeals with laughter.
"You're having fun", Olivia says, looking up at her husband who is dripping with water.
"I am. Let's go see what the girls are doing, Jo. Do you want something, Liv?"
"A popsicle — please. Cherry — no — lemon, babe", swatting his butt when he turns to take the same path as Cena and Asha.
"One lemon popsicle coming right up. Do you want one of mommy's popsicles, Jo?" Tucking the little girl under his arm like a football.
Her eyes follow him until he disappears down the path. He is pretending. He does not want to let Asha go but he will do what is best for his family.
XXX
In the pre-dawn hours of their last day at the lake house, Fitz sits on the balcony with legs stretched in front of him thinking about last night. He wanted to make their final night at the lake extra special, especially for Asha. After dinner they sat around the fire pit roasting marshmallows and he told the girls age-appropriate scary stories. When he tucked them in bed, he read each girl's favorite book, two times, although they were fast asleep. He brings the coffee mug to his lips and thinks about the hundreds of times he sat across the negotiating table relishing the look in his opponents' eyes when they realized the offer he presented is binary, that there were only two options and the hope for a more appealing alternate was not to come. That is the nature of a binary choice. He chuckles mirthlessly, now knowing what it feels like to choose from two competing options with two unpleasant outcomes.
"Here you are – I was looking for you", Olivia says, yawning and stretching her arms skyward as she waddles from the bedroom onto the adjoining balcony. He smiles at the nightgown hugging her stomach; she needs a larger size. "What are you doing out here?" He points to the east and her eyes follow the line of his long index finger and she smiles.
"It's beautiful, babe - absolutely beautiful", sitting on his lap watching the sun begin its slow ascent above the horizon.
"It's spectacular", wrapping his arms around her stomach. "You can't rush it you know."
She nods with a smile.
"You must have patience. You must be willing to wait until it fully presents itself", telling her what she taught him years ago about the discipline required when waiting for sunrise and sunset.
"I know", melting into the warmth of his chest. "Coming here was a good idea, babe. We don't come here often enough."
"You don't come here enough. We got this place so you could get away and relax", gliding his tongue down her collarbone.
"I know. I've been so busy— we've been busy. Besides— I don't want to come up here without you and the girls", slowly moving her round butt over his lap. He slides his hand between her legs and smiles because she is already wet.
"Is this why you were looking for me?"
She nods, spreading her legs wider. He inserts a finger and she gasp, her warm breath floating in the cool, crisp air. She leans back against his chest and slowly swirls her hips and his finger plunges deeper. Her hips move faster and he knows she is close; he does not want her to cum like this. He wants to be inside.
"Lift up", his warm breath wafting over her ear.
She grabs the arms of the chair, lifting her butt a few inches from his lap and he quickly free his hardening penis from the restraining boxers. He strokes his hardness and the thin fluid ooze through the slit. He glides the swollen head back and forth against her opening and they moan. Flesh against flesh, the feeling is agonizingly beautiful. He enters her slowly and she lowers herself onto his stiffness, taking him all the way in. She licks her lips, loving the way her husband fills her. Their eyes close.
She is snug around him and it feels incredible. He caresses her thick thighs, slowly sliding his hand under the silk nightgown and up her stomach until he reaches her full breasts. He loves when she is pregnant. His thumbs stroke her nipples and she moans louder, the tactile sensation electrifies her skin.
His strokes are long and deliberate and she moves her hips: back and forth, up and down, and side-to-side; controlling her pleasure and driving him crazy. The friction is incredible.
"Touch it, Fitz", spreading her legs wider.
He loves that she tells him what she wants. After almost 10 years of marriage they openly tell each other what gives them pleasure and they have no qualms in giving it. He loves pleasing his wife and cannot imagine sharing this level of intimacy with anyone else. Leaving is not an option.
He strokes her clitoris and she grind against his flattened, calloused hand. Her hips move faster and faster, the he dual stimulation sends her to a new level of frenzy.
"Harder, babe - harder", nearing her peak. He thrusts harder and deeper, touching the spot he knows so well. Her moans fill the morning air.
"Oh god, Fitz. Oh, god", gripping the arms of the chair to the point of bursting a vein. The body-shuddering climax rocks her hard and she falls back against his chest, panting with open mouth. She is tingling.
With face pressed against her neck he pumps rhythmically, slowly exploring her inner sanctum. He whispers in her ear and she tightens that special muscle, squeezing his rod. A loud gasp escapes his lips and he lean back, enjoying the feel of the muscle tightening and releasing over and over again. The feeling is dreamlike; he feels like he is flying.
"Livvie - Livvie."
She is driving him crazy and he wants to cum, he needs to cum. He thrusts upward, harder and harder, his heart close to bursting from his chest. His face contorts from the pleasurable pain and he holds her tight, gently biting the side of her neck as he spills deep inside. The release is shattering. His breathing is rapid and his chest rise and fall as he slowly slides out.
XXX
Sticky and dripping with each other's juices, they lay back reveling in the aftermath of early morning sex. The sun is now high above the horizon. He glides his tongue over his mark and she smiles, thinking he has not done that in a while.
"What were you thinking about when I came out?"
"How about we move up here? It would improve our quality of life. If we're having a bad day — we can just take a break —go for a walk - sit outside - or take the kids to the lake. Technology allows you to work from anywhere, Liv."
"You have to go to City Hall, Fitz. You can't be a remote employee", elbowing him playfully. He remains silent. "You have to decide, babe. September is a couple of months away - council will resume soon."
"I know - I will", gently rubbing her stomach. She nods, her husband is like the rising and setting sun, she cannot rush him. "Ty will be here next month - it'll be good to see him", changing the subject.
"Is it just a visit or is it business, too?"
"He didn't say. He knows I can't consult on any deals he may be planning."
"I love it here, Fitz - it's so peaceful and serene. I want our times here to memorialize our children's childhood. I want them to remember this as the place where they can always come and reflect – feel safe – create memories. And when they go off to college — I want us to spend summer breaks here. You know they'll be with us forever."
Her voice trails off in a laugh, but he remains silent, not engaging in their usual playful banter about the useless degrees their daughters will earn. He rests his chin on her shoulder and stares at the beautiful mountain vista.
"Do you remember the sermon Rev. Walker gave a few months ago on compassion?"
"Honestly — I don't", wondering what prompted the question.
"Well he did - and I can't seem to get it out of my head. Whenever I look at Asha I see a part of myself in her – who I was after the accident – attempted murder. I see someone who is broken and afraid."
She turns her head and looks into his eyes; she had no idea he was still struggling with the effects of that traumatic day on the mountain. She had no idea that is what is influencing his behavior with Asha.
"I'm an adult, Liv — a man. I was able to work through my pain. She's just a child."
"Asha is going to be fine, babe – you'll see to that - we'll see to that." His hands slide from her stomach and she feels his body tense.
"I would never do anything to jeopardize our family – but I'm going to need time to prepare her."
"I know", placing his hands back onto her stomach. "When you're ready — we'll do it together. Okay?"
He nods.
"And we'll talk to your mother and John - together." With face set hard, he nods again.
"Let's shower and get breakfast ready - the girls will be up soon", standing and reaching for his hand.
"I'll be in in a minute", staring straight ahead at the mountains.
XXX
Bennie looks down at his tablet, reviewing his surgical schedule for the week. He is still trying to catch up on the elective procedures he delayed so they could go on vacation. He smiles when a message from his mother pops up on the screen.
"Mom wants us to come over for dinner next week - she says dad will be back from Portland."
"That sounds lovely - how is Nora doing? I haven't had a chance to call my friend", Marion asks, setting the glass of iced tea onto the counter.
"Mom says she loves Portland - she loves her new job. Dad got her a really nice apartment — got her all set up. He stayed out there longer than mom expected— but I guess that's what they both needed."
"I'm happy Nora and your father are making amends", she says, flipping through the latest issue of Elle magazine.
"Liv and Fitz took the girls up to the lake house - they'll be back home this evening."
"How do you know that?" She asks, looking up from the magazine.
"I called Liv a few times."
"You did what?"
"I said I called Liv." She heard what he said, she just cannot believe he said it.
"When did you call Olivia?" Looking at him curiously.
"Once or twice while we were away. I called again yesterday."
"You called Olivia while we were on vacation? Why would you do that?"
"I was getting concerned when she wasn't answering her phone", he says blithely, returning his attention to the schedule.
"Concerned about what?"
"What do you mean?" Thinking her question is odd.
"Why were you concerned about Olivia?"
"Liv was obviously upset about Kelly's death before we left. I just wanted to check — "
"That's why she has a husband, Ben. Remember— she's married to Fitz — your brother? I'm sure Fitz is more than capable of taking care of his wife."
"Marion …" Her tone of voice signaling that she is upset.
"I'm not jealous - I'm not."
"Marion?" Setting the tablet onto the sofa cushion.
"As a child I didn't have a choice whether my mother was emotionally available to me. I'm an adult now and I have a choice."
"What is this all about, Marion?"
"That's what I'm talking about, Ben. Your tone says I don't have the right to express valid concerns about our relationship."
"What concerns, Marion? We just returned from a wonderful vacation", annoyed that her old demon is rearing its ugly head again.
"A vacation where you were going behind my back and secretly calling Olivia."
"You make it sound sinister when all I was trying to do is check how she was doing." Face now red with anger.
"That's your brother's job – not yours."
"It wasn't a secret", he says dismissively.
"Then why am I just hearing about it? I can't do this anymore. I won't do it anymore."
"What are you talking about? What can't you do anymore?"
"Your obsession with your brother's wife is intolerable. In the beginning – yes - I was jealous of your relationship with Olivia - and you allowed me to believe it was all me. You vociferously denied having feelings for her – but you do."
"Let's not do this again, Marion."
"That condescending tone that says I'm crazy no longer works. You're the one who's crazy. After all these years you're still in love with your brother's wife. They've been married for almost 10 years — with two children — and two more on the way - twins for god's sake - and here you are still mooning over her. I'm done - we're done", she says, climbing down from the barstool and walking over to the door.
"Marion — please - let's discuss this."
"I want more than you're capable of giving me, Ben. Please leave – now", holding the door open.
Not sure what just happened, Ben stares at the door and realizes she is serious. He gathers his tablet and keys from the sofa and walks over to Marion.
"I will call you tomorrow", leaning in to peck her on the cheek, but she turns her head.
"Please don't", closing the door. Raffles brushes his head against her leg and she bends down to pick him up. You'll never break my heart - will you, boy?
XXX
Harry and Rufus cautiously climb the wide slate steps that lead to the Grant's front door, he has been waiting all week for them to return from their vacation. He needs to inform them of the suspicious activity that occurred around their house while they were away. Hoping that Fitz answers the door, Harry presses the doorbell then takes a step back.
"Hello, Harry", Fitz says, greeting his neighbor with a smile.
"Hello, Fitz - welcome home. You look well rested - it looks like you got some sun."
"That's what vacations are for, Harry."
"Indeed – indeed", Harry replies.
"What can I do for you, Harry?"
"As you know - Rufus and I take our daily constitutional around the neighborhood. Rufus is getting a little long in the tooth so I must anticipate when he needs to go out. Anyway – while we were out for our stroll last week - I noticed a strange woman in the neighborhood. At first I thought she was someone's new housekeeper."
Fitz scrunches his face, wondering why Harry is telling him about his sighting of a new housekeeper.
"She's not employed by anyone in this community - Rufus and I know all the girls who work around here. By the way – do you ever hear from Hildie? She was such a sweet woman – a wonderful cook. Those breakfast …"
Fitz' eyes darken at the mention of their former housekeeper's name and Harry realizes he should stick to the reason for his visit.
"I mean know disrespect, Fitz — you know I'm not like that." Fitz frowns because he has no idea what Harry is talking about.
"I'm sorry— but you have me at a loss, Harry."
"She's black – the woman I saw – she's black", glancing down at the slate step.
Fitz' face hardens so Harry continues quickly.
"She was here several times - watching your house. I said nothing to her of course - not at first - not until I spied her opening your mailbox. That's when Rufus and I accosted her - immediately. When I asked if I could be of assistance - she promptly closed the mailbox and hurried away - such an odd-looking woman – I must say."
"Did she say what she wanted? Did you get a name?" Fitz' interest now piqued.
"No - as I said - she skedaddled once she knew that Rufus and I were on to her. Well – I just thought you ought to know."
"Thank you, Harry", Fitz says, glancing around the property and wondering who has been surveilling their home.
"We neighbors must watch out for each other – right, Fitz? Come on, Rufus", gently tugging the dog's leash as he turns and walks away.
"Take care, Harry", closing the door and thinking he may need to contact the detective again to watch his family.
XXX
While the girls are at Abby's having a playdate with Ethan, Olivia and Fitz are enjoying their newly remodeled kitchen. Olivia sits on the plush barstool anxiously waiting for her husband to finish preparing thespecial lunch he promised her. He has been working diligently for almost an hour to create the perfect charcuterie board and she is hungry. She frowns when she sees him slide another piece of hard salami into his mouth.
"Lindsay did a terrific job in the nursery, babe. In fact - she exceeded my expectations. The nursery is absolutely stunning. She can be a bit overbearing at times - but she managed to incorporate all my ideas. The design works for a boy and girl."
"I'm glad you like it."
"And this kitchen – it's beautiful. I wasn't sure about the blue velvet barstools when Lindsay sent the pictures — but they're wonderful. They match your eyes, babe."
"Mike should've consulted me before he repaired the sink", he says with an edge to his voice.
"You really didn't expect Mike to remodel the kitchen and leave that old sink leaking. I'm surprised he kept that relic."
"I was going to fix it, Liv", dipping prosciutto into the coarse grain mustard then sliding it into his mouth.
"I thought you were making the charcuterie board for me."
"I am."
"Babe – you're eating everything and I'm sitting here starving. You've been eating as much me lately — if not more. Thank goodness you now have the gym."
He sets the wooden board containing cured meats, duck ham, chicken sausage, prosciutto, cheeses, crackers, pickled vegetables, mustards, and jam in front of her.
"Babe – this looks terrific", reaching for a piece of camembert cheese. He places duck ham on a cracker and drops it into his mouth. "Your appetite has -"
The ringing doorbell interrupts her thought and he stops chewing and stares at her, wondering if they are expecting guests.
"Keep stuffing your face — I'll get the door", shaking her head as she slides down from the barstool.
"I'll save some for you", grinning as he plops a few Kalamata olives into his mouth.
XXX
The first time the cab driver dropped her off she was overwhelmed by the stately homes, each situated on a few acres of land, providing the privacy rich people willingly pay for. Fancy cars with names she cannot pronounce were parked in various shaped driveways and she was almost certain that others were safely secured in garages the size of small homes. She always wondered what kind of people lived in homes like these. She always wondered what the inside of fancy homes look like.
They're finally home, smiling internally as she walks up the slate steps clutching a scrap of paper in her boney hand. She will not be intimidated by these people just because they are rich. She straightens her back, lifts her head, and rings the doorbell.
Olivia knows that it is impolite to stare, but the woman standing before her looks like she has seen better days. She wonders if she is a beggar.
"Mrs. Grant?"
"Yes?" Olivia replies, instinctively placing a protective hand on her stomach.
"So good to finally meet you. I come by here a few times – but you musta been away", taking another step forward and extending her leathery brown hand. "My name is Barbara Anne Forrester – I'm Kelly's mother."