Chapter 68. Nine Years, Two Months, and Seventeen Days
Cradling the tall crystal vase in her arms, Olivia walks from the storage closet trying to remember if they received the vase as a wedding gift or if she bought at some point over the years. She carefully sets the vase in the farmhouse sink, turns on the faucet, and sighs as she watches the vessel fill with cool water. Fitz should have known to place the flowers in a vase. The bouquet of flowers Ty bought her have been sitting on the table in the family room all day.
She lifts the water-filled vase from the sink, carries it over to the granite island top, and sprinkles the packet of plant food in the water. As she watches the granular crystals slowly dissolve, she wonders how she is going to smooth things over with her husband. She unfurls the paper holding the flowers together and spread it onto the granite. She is glad Lindsay convinced them to keep the island, it still serves as an eating surface and work area.
Sorting the flowers and greenery the way Mrs. Hildebrand taught her when she worked at the gardening center, Olivia places the greenery on the paper to the left and the primary and secondary flowers to the right. The huge white lilies will be the focal flower and the pompons will be the secondary flower. She arranges the greenery in the vase, criss-crossing the stems to create a sturdy base, smiling as she remembers the day Mrs. Hildebrand taught her the technique.
"Forming the lattice pattern creates a sturdy base for the other flowers, Olivia."
Olivia strips the leaves from the lilies then cut the stems on the diagonal.
"Cutting the stems on the diagonal allows the flower to absorb more water. It helps them to stay alive longer."
As Olivia places the large lilies in the vase, she thinks about her husband's demeanor during dinner. Sullen and unusually quiet, he barely responded to the barrage of questions the girls' fired at him about Ty. He hardly looked in her direction.
Olivia adds the pompons to round out the arrangement, then grabs a few pieces of greenery to fill in the empty spaces. Stepping back to assess her handiwork, she smiles again, thinking Mrs. Hildebrand would be proud. She sets the vase in the middle of the island and begins to clean up the scraps of leaves and stems.
"That looks nice", Fitz says, leaning against the door jamb with arms folded across his chest.
"They're lilies. I think I like that name for a girl - what do you think?" Dropping the scraps into the trash bin. Fitz remains silent as his wife walks over to the sink to wash her hands. He does not like the name Lily. "I haven't created a flower arrangement in years. I'd forgotten how much I learned when I worked at the gardening center while in college."
"I didn't know you did this while in college", admiring the arrangement as he walks into the kitchen.
"I had many jobs while in college, babe", giving him an apologetic look as she dries her hands on the blue- and white-striped kitchen towel.
"We missed you at lunch today", and she sighs silently, thinking here it comes.
"I'm really sorry, babe. The flowers are beautiful — I have to send Ty a thank-you note", trying to eschew the argument she knows is brewing.
"Ty was looking forward to seeing you — it's been a while", he says, fingering one of the lilies.
"I bet", she mutters under her breath, but of course he hears her.
"Liv –"
"The way Cee and Asha were going on and about him at dinner – it seems like he was a big hit. They're fascinated by that country accent he pulls out at will."
"He's a raconteur", staring at her as she folds the towel and sets it on the counter.
"I'm sorry, Fitz — the meeting with Gray and the team ran over", offering him a second apology.
"Are you really sorry, Liv?"
"I lost track of time. So many great ideas were flying during the brainstorming session — it was exhilarating. I think we have an early draft proposal for safe injection sites."
"Today of all days? Really, Olivia?"
"I was doing my job, Fitz. I have work to do."
"It was more important to stay late with Gray and his team than to have lunch with a family friend?" Taking a step toward her.
"That man is no friend of mine."
"Well – he's my friend - and when I invite a friend to our home I expect my wife to be here and to be cordial."
"You expect me to do what?" Placing a hand on her wide hip. He has struck a nerve.
"You heard me", now standing a breath away from her face. "don't push me on this, Olivia."
"And don't you dare yell at me because I'm not fan-girling like you just because the great Ty Granger has decided to grace Church Falls with his presence. Forgive me if I don't feel the same as you."
With teeth clenched, he stares into her eyes and lay down the law, Fitz' law.
"Ty will be in town on business for a few more days — he's coming for dinner tomorrow night — I want you here. Try to pull yourself away from your latest cause and get home on time."
"You don't boss me around, Captain", staring defiantly at her red-faced husband.
"It must be wonderful to be so righteous", he mumbles under his breath as he walks over to the refrigerator. He needs ice cream.
"What did you say?"
"I don't want to do this — not tonight", yanking open the freezer door.
"Then tell me when you want to do this, Fitzgerald - and I'll pencil it on my calendar", glaring at him from across the room. He drops two scoops of ice cream into the bowl then quickly adds two more scoops.
"What are you afraid of? It's been 10 years. I married you — you won", tossing the container of ice cream back into the freezer. Her eyes bulge at his last comment - now she is ticked off.
"I won? You didn't do me any favors, mister."
"I'm not arguing with you tonight, Liv. I'm going to the study", walking from the kitchen.
"Nine years - two months - and seventeen days", she says softly.
"What?" Turning and looking at her with confusion in his eyes.
"We've been married for nine years - two months - and seventeen days. If it were up to Tyler Beauregard Granger – we wouldn't be married at all— in case you've forgotten. So - excuse me if I don't feel like rolling out the red carpet for him."
Fitz closes his eyes and sighs.
"Liv — "
"He hasn't been here 24 hours and he's causing trouble between us again."
Fitz takes a few steps toward his wife and she holds up a hand in a stopping motion.
"I'll be nice to Ty Granger", she spews, pushing past him as she stomps from the kitchen.
"Dammit", he exclaims, hurling the bowl of ice cream into the sink. He leans back against the sink, pinching the bridge of his nose as he thinks about that night over 10 years ago.
Flashback
More than three months have passed since Olivia and Fitz announced their engagement to family and friends, and since then, Fitz has been asking her to set a date to fly to California. He wants to introduce the love of his life to his best friend. But each time he mentions the trip, Olivia gives him another excuse as to why she has not selected a date. He is beginning to wonder if she has changed her mind about wanting to marry him.
"Liv – we have to make airline and hotel reservations. I need to know when you can get away from the foundation so I can reschedule the business trips I have on the books. Pick a date – any date", he insists.
Olivia knows she is testing her fiancé's patience, but truth be told, she is uneasy about meeting the legendary Ty Granger. Although she feigns indifference when Fitz drones on about the technology tycoon, she has been obsessing about whether Ty will like her. She quietly wonders what might happen if Ty does not approve of Fitz' choice for a wife. Will Fitz want to call off the engagement? Does Ty have that much sway over him? The expectations are high.
Knowing she can no longer delay the inevitable, Olivia sits in her small office at the foundation, closes her eyes, and places her index finger on the paper calendar she keeps open on top of the old metal desk. Three weeks later, they are on an airplane destined for San Jose, California.
XXX
With fingers interlocked, Fitz and Olivia follow the attractive blonde hostess across the dining room of the Michelin- ranked restaurant. She smiles internally when she hears the piano player singing one of her parents' favorite standards, "Unforgettable". Her parents have been married for almost 30 years and she wants her marriage to last as long, if not longer.
Heart thumping in her chest, Olivia holds Fitz' hand tighter when she sees Ty stand from the booth with a big smile plastered over his face. She has seen many pictures of him and Fitz together, and knew he was a big man, a few inches taller than her fiancé, but he seems even larger in real life. When they reach the table, Fitz hugs his friend with his free hand while continuing to hold Olivia's hand. She smiles as the two men greet each other.
"Liv, this is Ty. Ty, this is my beautiful fiancée, Olivia", Fitz smiles proudly.
"It's good to met you, Ty", Olivia says, extending her free hand. "I've heard so much about you."
"All terrible - I'm sure. It's good to finally meet you - too, Olivia. May I have a hug?" Spreading his arms wide.
"Of course," she says, stepping into his embrace and immediately feeling dwarfed by the man.
"Let's sit down – let's get out of the middle of the floor", Ty says, flashing a kind smile.
Olivia slides onto the plush upholstered seat and Fitz quickly sits next to her, draping his arm over her shoulders. Ty sits down across from the couple, his eyes darting between the two.
"Grant says you like red wine, Olivia — so I took the liberty of ordering a bottle of Pinot noir. I hope you don't mind - I wanted it breathe before you arrived."
"That was kind of you", Olivia says with a smile.
As if on cue, the waiter walks over carrying the wine and promptly pours a splash into Olivia's goblet. She brings the glass to her nose, inhales the floral bouquet, then brings it to her lips.
"This is wonderful — thank you", smiling at the waiter. The waiter returns the smile then fills her glass halfway with the expensive wine.
"Bring the gentleman a scotch on the rocks and I'll have another bourbon – neat."
"Right away, sir", the waiter says with a slight bow before walking away.
"So – you're the lady who has stolen my friend's heart", Ty says, staring into Olivia's eyes.
"Liv didn't steal my heart, Ty – I gave it to her willingly", Fitz says, pecking Olivia on the cheek, and she smiles demurely.
"You're really whipped - aren't you, Grant?" Ty says, expelling a breathy laugh.
"I guess I am", Fitz replies proudly.
"I wanna toast the two of you", Ty says, raising his glass. "May the two of you have many wonderful years of bliss together. Cheers."
They clink glasses and each take a much-needed sip of their beverage.
"Olivia, Fitz says that you're involved in social work."
"Liv owns her own foundation", Fitz chimes in.
"I am not a social worker – per se – but I guess you can say I provide society a much-needed service. I started my foundation to help educate the underprivileged — the disenfranchised — about the importance of having access to clean drinking water. It's not just a problem in underdeveloped countries — many people in our communities— in certain communities — are exposed daily to lead and other contaminates in their drinking water."
"I see – that sounds like a worthwhile cause. So - what are your plans for the future? Are you considering expanding into other areas? You can't do this water thing forever."
"Excuse me?" Olivia says, not quite sure if she should be offended.
"I'm sorry, Olivia – as a businessman I'm always looking for the next opportunity to grow my company. It's a habit - Grant can tell you that."
Fitz nods in agreement.
"Enough about business — let's talk about something more interesting. Are you from Church Falls, Olivia?"
"I'm originally from back East. My parents moved to Church Falls when I was a teenager — that's when I met Ben. If I hadn't met Ben – I would never have met Fitz", smiling at her fiancé.
"I see. I'm surprised your little brother didn't snatch up Olivia before you moved back home, Grant."
Ty unknowingly opens an old, and the couple is glad to see the waiter returning to the table carrying the large leather-bound menus.
"Sir - may I introduce the menu specials now?" Directing the question to Ty.
"How about we start with a few appetizers, first — that's if the lady doesn't mind." Ty looks at Olivia.
"Of course, not", Olivia says, thinking Ty is so gracious.
The waiter hands each guest a menu and waits as Olivia scans the list of appetizers.
"Babe – they have beef tartare – it's your favorite."
"I'll have that - and the lady will have the beet pyramids", Fitz says to the waiter and Olivia smiles at her fiancé. "I know what you like", he says, pecking her on the cheek again.
Ty looks up from his menu and glances at the couple sitting across from him.
"I'll have the sautéed collard greens", he says somewhat tersely. "And - we'll have another round of drinks", reaching for the wine to fill Olivia's glass.
"I haven't finished this yet", Olivia says, waving away the bottle.
"That's the point – I don't want to see your glass empty at all tonight."
"Liv is not much of a drinker", Fitz says, slowly rubbing his hand up and down her back.
"Well – if the future Mrs. Grant is going to hang out with us - she better put on her big girl panties and drink up", Ty laughs loudly, but Olivia does not smile. "Grant – do you remember when we were stationed in Honolulu for six months and I met that gal in the bar down on – hell – I can't remember the name of the street now. She had some weird two-tone-colored hair and her girlfriend was all over you. I was in love."
"If I remember - you fell in love wherever we docked", Fitz says, setting his drink back onto the cocktail napkin.
"I certainly did. Do you remember that gal who fell for you in Tokyo? She was a dancer in that club — she actually thought you were going to marry her. You always liked exotic women. Mellie didn't fit the bill - but here you have another exotic beauty."
With a smile, Ty tilts his glass toward Olivia and Fitz drapes his arm over her shoulders again, but Olivia leans away from him.
"Those were the good old days", Ty continues reminscently.
"That was a long time ago, Ty."
"Excuse me", Olivia says, smiling demurely at her fiancé as she begins to stand.
"Of course," Fitz says, he and Ty both standing quickly.
XXX
A few minutes later the waiter returns carrying a tray of drinks and the appetizers. Fitz glances down at his watch, wondering what is taking Olivia so long.
"So - you're really going to do this?" Ty asks.
"I am. Liv is it for me, Ty. I wonder what's taking her so long. Excuse me", flagging down the hostess that seated them, "have you seen my fiancee' – she went to the ladies' room a while ago?"
"Yes – she left the restaurant. I saw her get into a cab a few minutes ago."
"A cab?" Fitz screeches, looking over at Ty with concern and surprise. "I'm sorry, Ty - I have to go -something's wrong with Liv",
"Slow down – let's just have our dinner and we'll find out what's going on with Olivia later. I'm sure she's fine."
"I'm sorry - I have to go", Fitz says, quickly standing from the table.
"Wait – I'll give you a ride to your hotel", Ty says in an irritated tone as he tosses several one hundred-dollar bills on the table as Fitz hurries toward the exit.
XXX
Heart pounding in his chest, Fitz rushes into the hotel room frantically looking around for Olivia, hoping she is all right. As he rushes toward the bathroom, Olivia is walking out carrying a handful of toiletries.
"Liv - are you all right? The waitress said you left the restaurant. Are you not feeling well? Do you need to see a doctor?" He asks in one breath.
"No, Fitz - I don't need to see a doctor. I need to get out of here. I want to go home", her voice laced with anger.
"Go home? Why?" Staring at her with confusion.
"Do you really need to ask why?" Tossing the toiletries into her suitcase.
"Did I do something - say something?" Following her around the room as she yanks her clothes from the drawers and closet.
"That's the problem, Fitz - you just sat there — you didn't open your mouth", glaring at him with derision.
"Are you upset that Ty mentioned Mellie? I told him it was inappropriate to do so when you went to the restroom. I'm sorry."
"I don't give a damn about Mellie. You just sat there when your racist — sexist - buddy insulted me."
His brow furrows as he quickly racks his brain trying to recall every detail of their table conversation.
"He did what?"
"Your friend called me exotic."
He looks at her dumbfounded, he has no idea what she is talking about.
"Calling a Black woman exotic is racist — it's a back-handed compliment that says we're something other than the so-called standard. It was your friend's way of saying I don't fit his narrowly defined standards of beauty. It was his way of saying I'm not good enough for you."
"Are you sure?" He asks, still trying to understand why she is so upset.
"Are you out of your mind? Are you suggesting I don't know a racial slur when I hear one?" Throwing more items into the suitcase.
"Maybe you misunderstood", trying to choose his words carefully, and she whips around and glares at him even more angry.
"Misunderstood? Why are you so quick to give that man the benefit-of-the-doubt?"
"Ty isn't like that, Liv."
"I can't believe you're still defending him."
"Liv, please."
"My god — is that who you are - too?" Horrified at the thought she came close to marrying a racist.
"What?"
"How could I not see it? How could I be so blind?" Pacing around the room because she does not know what else to do.
When it finally dawns on him what she is saying, he takes a step toward her and she takes two steps back.
"You know me, Liv. I'm not like that. I'm sorry - I didn't know."
"He's your best friend — like a brother – isn't that what you always say? How could you not know?"
"You gotta believe me - I didn't know what the word meant. I didn't know I was supposed to say something."
"Your buddy knew exactly what he was saying."
"I didn't know the word was an insult. I don't know every racial slur."
"The engagement is off — I didn't pass your buddy's test and he definitely did not pass mine. This isn't going to work - we're not going to work."
"Sit down – let's talk about this – please", he begs.
Olivia shakes her head from side to side as she continues to toss clothes into the suitcase. Upset that she is not listening to him, Fitz snatches the suitcase from the bed and flings it across the room. She looks at him in horror, she has never seen this side of him. She wonders if he is a lunatic.
"Have you lost your mind? Are you some kind of nut?" Looking at her clothes and toiletries strewn over the floor.
"I'm not letting you walk away from us because of some asinine comment. I love you. I want to spend the rest of my life with you. We're getting married."
"Don't you dare try to minimize what that man said. This engagement is off."
"This engagement is not off. We're forever."
She steps back, rolls her shoulders, and squints at him. He knows when she takes that posture she means business, so he softens his tone.
"Liv - I swear - I didn't know. How would I know? There's a lot I don't know - you have to help me - we have to help each other. Okay?"
She stares into his pleading eyes trying to figure out if he is the man she thinks he is or if he is like his friend.
"Please, Liv", reaching out and caressing the side of her face and she begins to melt.
"He's your friend."
"I. Didn't. Know."
She studies his face a long while, wanting to believe what they share is not a hoax, that she is not a phase for him.
"I didn't know", he repeats, and she acquiesces.
"I still don't like Tyler Beauregard Granger."
"And you don't have to - you just have to love me. If he has those kinds beliefs then I can no longer be his friend.", wrapping an arm around her waist and pulling her close. "I love you and I'm sorry. I would never knowingly allow anyone to hurt you in any way. Okay?"
"Okay", she says softly.
"Are we still getting married?" She gives him a big smile. "You have to say it, Liv."
"We are still engaged", and with that he sweeps her up in his arms and covers her face with wet kisses. "Put me down, Fitz", she whines, feigning annoyance.
"Promise me, Liv - no more walking away. We don't leave. We don't divorce. When we're married - it's forever. Okay?"
"Okay."
"Now kiss me."
He presses his lips to hers, kissing her tenderly, reassuring her that he loves her. She responds without hesitation, devouring his mouth as he carries her over to the bed. He lay her onto the bed and squirms out of his suit jacket, and it falls to the floor in a thud. Olivia wonders what he has in the pockets that caused such a sound. He trails kisses down her neck as he fumbles with the buttons on her blouse, and her stomach begins to growl. She laughs against his mouth.
"I'm hungry, babe", trying to sit up, but he is pushing up her bra.
"Me, too", he mutters, bringing his mouth to the exposed breast.
"I didn't have dinner, Fitz", her stomach growling even louder. He drops his head to her shoulder and sighs in defeat.
"Do you want to go out?" His body weight still pinning her down on the bed.
"I'm too tired to go out."
"We can go to the restaurant in the hotel", he suggests.
"Can we just order room service? Besides — you can't go anywhere with lipstick all over your face", chuckling as she swipes her thumb over his chin in an attempt to erase some of the red rouge.
He nods, giving her a quick peck on the lips before climbing off her. He walks over to the desk and picks up the in-room dining menu, and she stands from the bed buttoning her blouse.
"This doesn't compare to the restaurant that we left", he says, reading the limited list of food options. "I'll have to take you back there."
"I'll eat anything at this point", she says, bending down and scooping up her things from the floor.
XXX
"Open", he says, holding a greasy french fry close to her mouth.
"You're going to make me fat", she says, sitting across from him at the small table wearing her nightgown.
"I'll love you no matter what — now open."
Over a dinner of hamburgers, fries, and extra thick milkshakes, they discuss what Ty Granger forced them to deal with the unpleasant topic.
"We've been naïve—reckless - for not discussing the elephant in the room. Others certainly will."
"I don't want this to define us, Liv."
"Neither do I - but we have to talk about it. Your best friend put it in my face — put it in our face - tonight. What do you think strangers will do?"
"I don't give a damn."
"You have to give a damn. We have to think about everything. We have to think about what it will mean to have biracial children. We have to think about how they will be affected. This won't be just about us."
"I can do many things, Liv - but I cannot control the world. I cannot undo this country's ugly legacy. I can only promise that I will love and protect you and our children – all five of them - with everything I have."
"Four children, babe — not five", holding up four fingers for emphasis, "five is too many."
XXX
Stuffed to the brim with greasy hamburgers and french fries, they climbed into bed mentally and emotionally exhausted. For the past three hours, they talked in earnest about what it will really mean to be in an interracial marriage. They agreed there will be some difficult times, but they would not allow other people to determine who they should love. They agreed to take on the naysayers together.
With Olivia curled close to his side, Fitz lie in the dark with his eyes wide open, listening to his future wife's light snoring punctuate the otherwise quiet room. A myriad of thoughts swirl around his head as he reflects on the evening. The night certainly did not go the way he planned, but maybe that is a good thing. He looks over at his fiancée, and, for the first time, consciously studies the contrast between her caramel-colored skin and his pale skin. He tries to imagine the many slights she has endured, but of course, he cannot. He will never fully understand. He kisses the top of her head, lifts her arms that is draped over his stomach, then slowly slides from the bed.
XXX
Donning a brown paisley print silk robe with the sash tied loosely around his waist, Ty jogs bare feet down the long winding staircase to answer the door. He saw Grant on the security camera walking up the front steps. He wonders what brings his friend to his home at this hour of the night. Before opening the door, he glances up the stairs with a look of satisfaction on his face.
"Grant – what the hell …."
The fist crashing against Ty's jaw, truncates his sentence and he drops to the Carrera marble floor like a sack of potatoes.
"Let me know if you're going to slug me again because I'll just stay down here", Ty says, rubbing his jaw as he looks up at his angry-looking friend.
"Get the hell up — and close your robe", Fitz growls as he steps over Ty and stomps up the massive foyer toward the den.
Ty scrambles to his feet, pulling the robe's sash tight around his waist as he trundles up the hall. He walks around the massive bar that overlooks the luxurious relaxing area; the space is definitely designed for entertaining. He unscrews the top from the bottle of his favorite bourbon and pours a splash of the smokey whiskey into a glass.
"Drink?" Ty offers, motioning the bottle toward his friend, who is pacing around the well-appointed space. Fitz waves his hand in dismissal. "What did I do to deserve such a greeting?" Ty asks in a playful tone.
"Are you a goddamn racist?" Fitz demands, his face red with anger.
"How is Olivia doing? Is she feeling better?"
"Answer my damn question."
"I appreciate the late-night visit, Grant – but I have someone upstairs keeping the sheets warm for me. You remember that little philly from the restaurant – the hostess?"
"What was that shit you said to Liv about being exotic?"
"You can't go around punching everyone who says something that might offend Olivia's sensibilities, Grant", wincing when the bourbon comes in contact with bruise that has formed inside his jaw.
"Answer my goddamn question."
"What do you know about, Olivia? I mean really know about her."
"I know that she is the best thing that has ever happened to me. I know that I love her. I know that I'm going to marry her. Isn't that how it's supposed to work, Ty? Boy meets girl. Boy falls in love with girl. Boy marries girl. Boy and girl have lots and lots of babies and live happily ever after."
"She's nothing more than a glorified social worker - running a fledging nonprofit. She could be after your money – she could be a gold digger for all you know."
"I know Liv — she's nothing like that. She doesn't care about money."
"Who the hell doesn't care about money? Son – when someone tells you they don't care about the almighty dollar – you better run like hell."
"Are you a racist?" Fitz asks with eerie calmness.
"Have you ever been in an interracial relationship? I don't mean all those women you screwed - we screwed - across South East Asia. Do you even have any Black friends? You damn sure didn't have any when we were in the Navy - unless you were secretly friends with your Mess Attendant. You know — the guy who served your meals - shined your boots - and cleaned your toilet. And - I don't remember you hanging out with any brothers when you lived here. So — excuse me if I'm confused", taking another sip of the warm whiskey.
"I'm 31years old, Ty. Hopefully — I'll have another 60 years on this earth. Am I to live the next six decades without the woman I love?"
"History tells you what kind of life you might have in the future, Grant."
"I don't give a damn about history — I care about how I feel now. I won't defend or apologize for who I love, Ty."
"You've always been the idealistic one", walking around the bar carrying the drink in his hand.
"There's nothing idealistic about me wanting to marry Liv. I love her — it's that simple."
Ty takes another sip from the glass and shakes his head because there is nothing simple about his partner-in-crime wanting to get married.
"Why can't you be happy for me?" Fitz continues.
"Because this is not you, Grant. I know you. I don't want you to have any regrets."
"There won't be any regrets", Fitz says with conviction. "I'm sorry you don't support my choice — but I'm marrying Liv."
Ty knows his friend well; Fitzgerald Grant is stubborn. Once he has made up his mind, nothing or no one can change it. More than once he has seen the man take a hard line, not budging, when he was convinced that he was. Unwilling to risk fracturing their friendship over a woman, Ty decides to wait and let this little social experiment burn itself out, so he relents.
"If marrying Olivia is what you really want to do - then I'll support you", raising the glass in the air.
"I have to get back to the hotel before Liv wakes up", Fitz says as he walks from the room.
"I'll stop by in the morning and apologize to Olivia. She must've misunderstood what I said", Ty calls after him.
Fitz turns and stares at his friend for a long while. Not once in the 10 years that he has known the man did he have reason to question his veracity. It saddens him to know that he does tonight.
"You never answered the damn question", Fitz says before walking from the room.
Present Day
Staring in the mirror, Olivia's stomach trembles, and it is not because the babies are playing soccer again. Their guest is arriving shortly, and she is feeling like the younger version of herself who left the restaurant in California over 10 years ago — uneasy and insecure. She knows she is being silly, but after all these years she wants to prove to Tyler Beauregard Granger that Fitzgerald Grant made the right choice in marrying her. She glances down at her watch for the umpteenth time today and groans. She does not like any of the dresses she has tried on so far.
"Ugh - nothing fits", trying to tug the tight-fitting dress down over here wide hips.
"What's the matter?" Fitz asks, as he walks into the bedroom.
"This dress looked better online. Look at me - I look like one of those balloon floats in the Thanksgiving Day Parade."
"Calm down, Liv — you look just fine."
"Just fine, Fitz? Just fine? I don't want to look just fine."
He stands behind her, gently massaging her stomach, as he stares at their reflection in the mirror. He knows she is anxious about the dinner.
"You look beautiful", editing his previous statement as he smiles at her frowned reflection.
"I hate when you patronize me. I'm sure your friend will get a kick out of seeing you have a fat wife."
"One – I am not patronizing you. I respect you too much. Two - you're not fat — you're pregnant - with my babies. Three - I don't give a damn what Ty or anyone else thinks - never have."
"Did you put the potatoes in the oven?"
"Done", pressing kisses down the back of her neck.
"Did you check the roast?" Still trying to adjust the dress.
"Done", pressing his lips to the side of her neck. "Does Ty even like lamb? Maybe I shouldn't have done the whole Southern menu thing. He's probably had enough of that kind of food."
"He'll like the dinner, Liv."
"Pfft."
"What now?"
"I should've had James to do my hair."
"Your hair is fine, Liv."
"It's not fine, Fitz. It's getting too long again. I can't do a thing with it."
He kisses down the other side of her neck.
"I'm sorry - I was insensitive. I'll get rid of him after dinner — no dessert."
"You can't be rude, Fitz."
"I don't want you stressed. I'll get rid of Ty early - then we can catch up", kissing down her shoulder.
"Catch up? What do you mean catch up?" Staring at his reflection with confusion in her eyes.
"It's been weeks, Liv."
"What are you talking about?" Crinkling her brow thinking the dress is definitely not going to work.
"Sex - we haven't made love in weeks, Liv."
"Are you kidding me?" Pulling away when she feels his arousal growing on her backside. "Is that all you can think about right now? Have you forgotten everything we've been through over past few weeks?"
"It's over. It's time to move on - get back to normal", pulling her close again.
"You're unbelievable. Your friend will be here in ..." Looking down at her watch, "less than an hour and you want to talk about sex? Really, Fitz?"
She walks over to the bed, picks up another dress, and holds it up to her chest.
"I hate my body", staring into the mirror at another dress she does not like.
"Hey— hey — don't say that. Look at me", turning her around to face him. "Olivia Carolyn Grant — I am in love with you. I will love you forever – no matter what."
He kisses her deeply and she smiles. Her husband has always been the calming force in their marriage. He always has a way of making her feel better.
"Now put on that dress and come downstairs, woman — we have dinner to serve."
"I'll be down in a few minutes", she says as he walks toward the door. "Keep an eye on Jo - I don't want her taking off her clothes tonight", she she calls out before dashing into the closet to find a different dress to wear.
XXX
Fitz shakes his head when he walks into the family room and sees the girls sitting on the sofa wearing the new dresses Olivia bought. They are waiting for Ty to arrive.
"How are my girls doing?" Lifting Jolie from the sofa.
"Daddy — is Mr. Ty going to talk funny again?" Cena asks.
"He doesn't really talk funny, Princess. It's called a Southern accent."
"Oh", Cena says, looking at Asha, and they giggle because they still think the man talks funny.
"Come with me, Angel - mommy wants me to keep an eye on you", carrying Jolie into the kitchen and setting her in the highchair. The kitchen smells wonderful, Liv has really outdone herself he thinks as he lifts the lid from the pot.
"Dammit", dropping the lid to the floor when the steam wafting from the pot burns his hand. Jolie looks over at her father and laughs.
XXX
Wearing the best of the worst dresses ever made, Olivia stops stirring the pot of black-eyed peas and looks over at her husband when the doorbell rings. The guest of honor has arrived. Fitz gives her a reassuring smile as he pulls the apron over his head. He hangs it on one of the hooks next to the rest of the family apron, grabs his wife's hand, and walk from the kitchen to greet their guest. As they pass through the family room, Olivia gives the girls a quick once-over.
"No dessert", Fitz says, pecking her on the lips before opening the door.
"Grant — twice in two days", Ty says, smiling broadly.
"Get in here", Fitz replies with an equally wide smile.
Olivia watch her husband's face light up as the two friends hug and pat each other on the back. She vows to be the perfect wife and hostess tonight for her husband's sake. After all, he does not ask for much, if anything, so she can pretend to tolerate Ty Granger for a few hours.
"Olivia – it's so good to see you. You're plumped out and pleased as a deer tick on a prized bull."
"Ty, you still know how to flatter a girl", Olivia says flatly.
"I got you some of that Pinot noir you like", handing Fitz the wooden case of expensive wine. "I know you can't drink it now — but you're sure gonna need it in a few months when y'all have a passle of children running around here.
"Thank you, Ty. That's so kind of you."
"May I have a hug?" Opening his arms wide.
"Of course", groaning silently when she realizes she is still wearing the apron. She reluctantly accepts his hug and peck on the cheek and promptly steps back from him. "You two go inside and enjoy your visit — I have a few things to finish in the kitchen."
"She still hates me", Ty whispers to Fitz as Olivia walks away.
"No — she doesn't. Come on in and have a seat. Your fans are waiting for you."
"My – my - y'all look pretty as a peach. Even the little has on clothes today." Cena and Asha place a hand over their mouth and giggle.
"Say hello to Mr. Ty, girls."
"Hi", Cena and Asha say in unison, and Jolie runs over to the man, stretching her arms toward him. She wants him to pick her up.
"I think she likes me", Ty says, swooping up Jolie and tickling the chubby little girl.
"I'll take her, Ty", Fitz says, reaching for his baby girl, but his Angel pulls away. "I've been replaced", Fitz pouts, pretending hurt feelings.
Ty sits down in the chair across from Cena and Asha, and he frowns immediately when he feels something hard pressing against his lower back. He reaches behind the seat cushion and pulls out a toy robot.
"Well— what is this? Is this yours, Jolie?" Ty asks, playfully shaking the toy at his new friend.
"It's mine - my mommy gave it to me", Asha says, climbing down from the sofa and taking Freddy from Ty's hand.
"What does he do?"
"He answers my questions and he can walk —too."
"I see", Ty says, smiling at the toy.
XXX
The seldom-used dining room table is set with their best china, crystal, and silverware. The table is overflowing with various foods Olivia thought Ty would like: a rack of lamb, wild rice, black-eyed peas, turnip greens, sweet potatoes, and cornbread drizzled with butter and honey.
The adults exchange polite conversation as they enjoy the Southern-inspired meal. Cena and Asha barely touch their food as they are fixated on the loud man who uses colorfullanguage.Fitz looks over at Asha and Cena, thinking they are never this quiet at dinner.
"Eat up, girls, Mr. Ty will be around a while longer to regale us with his stories. Cena and Asha quickly pick up their forks and begin to eat.
"Olivia — this meal is magnificent. I haven't had this kind of Southern cooking in years. The corned with honey-butter reminds me of my momma's."
"Why Ty Granger — I do declare - you can charm a gopher into eating cactus." Cena and Asha look at Olivia with surprise. They have never heard her use those kinds of words. "Fitz helped – he's become an excellent cook."
"He certainly is — I got a chance to see him in action yesterday at lunch."
"We helped", Asha chimes in.
"You certainly did, L'il Darlin'"
"You should have caught him during his sous-vide period", Olivia says.
"Sous what?" Ty asks.
"Sous vide — it's a cooking method", Fitz says, delighted that the evening is going well.
"Dammit", Jolie sputters with frustration when her spoon slips from her hand falls to the floor. She is just getting the hang of feeding herself, without making too much of a mess, like Cena and Asha.
Cena and Asha's mouths fall open and their eyes are wide as they look at Olivia. They have heard her tell the man of the house more than once not to use the bad word. Fitz looks helplessly at his wife and Ty laughs riotously until tears roll down his cheek.
"Not only is she a stripper — but she cusses — too. I love her."
"Jolie — you don't say words like that", Olivia chides her baby as she stands to pick up the spoon.
"Sit down, Liv - I got", Fitz says, picking up Jolie's spoon and wiping it on his napkin. "Angel — you must never say that word again", trying to do damage control while avoiding his wife's piercing glare.
"Dada — dada", Jolie squeals as she reaches for the spoon.
Ty leans back in the chair, enjoying the sight, as he takes a sip of the sweet tea. He cannot eat another bite.
"Olivia — I'm gonna be fatter than a tick on an old mangy dog after I leave here", rubbing his stomach with a smile of contentment.
"I hoped you saved room for dessert. We have pecan pie."
Fitz stops chewing and stares at the woman sitting at the opposite end of the table. She looks like his wife, but she does not sound like his wife.
"Maybe later. I can't eat another thing right now.
"Daddy, Bowtie needs to go to the bathroom", Cena announces.
"In a minute, Princess. So -Ty – where are you going when you leave Church Falls?"
"I'm flying to Seattle to do a little business."
Bowtie looks at Cena again with pleading eyes.
"Daddy, Bowtie is getting nervous", Cena interjects on the dog's behalf, and Fitz looks down at the family pet, who returns the stare with his big brown eyes.
"Go, babe — I'll clear away the dishes", Olivia says as she stands from her seat.
"Daddy — may I go with you?"
"Me too, Baaba?" Asha asks excitedly.
"Take Jo — too", Olivia says.
"I'll be back shortly, Ty", Fitz says, giving his friend a smile and pecking his wife on the lips.
"Bowtie will determine how long you'll be gone, babe."
"Take your time, Grant — I'll help Olivia clear the table."
"You're our guest, Ty — I can't allow you to —"
"Too late", he says, already removing dishes from the table. "After all — it's the least I can do after enjoying such a delicious meal."
Olivia silently groans as she flashes their guest a forced smile.
XXX
Scraping the food from the plates into the compost bin they keep on the countertop next to the sink, Olivia politely tries to get Ty to leave her kitchen.She does not want to be alone with the man one minute longer than necessary.
"You really don't have to do this, Ty. I can take it from here", watching him roll up his shirt sleeve.
"I'm more than willing to help, Olivia."
"I'm sure you have a staff to do your dishes at home."
"I do — but I would enjoy nothing more than helping you", flashing her a smile she does not believe.
Olivia slams her hand on the counter, she is tired of pretending. She said she was going to be a good wife and hostess this evening, but she is tired of acting like she is friends with the man she despises more than anything
"Let's be clear, Ty — I know you don't like me - and I don't like you. I doubt if I will ever like you and I'm sure you feel the same. The only reason you're in our home this evening is because my husband wanted to entertain his friend - and I will always respect and support my husband. I will do whatever it takes to make Fitz happy."
"You're still madder than a wet hen", Ty responds with his exaggerated accent.
Olivia rolls her eyes; she is also tired of him pretending to be a country bumpkin when he is the founder of a successful technology company. So, she unleashes a blistering rebuke, something she should have done years ago.
"That aw-shucks demeanor might work with a couple of six-year-olds — but I am not entertained."
"Olivia —"
"Your personal animosity toward me can only be chalked up as racism — and I don't suffer racists."
"I'm not a racist, Olivia — and I don't dislike you — not now and not back then."
"Really? Exotic? I know where that kind of language comes from. I'm not from some tribe in a far-off land. I'm not some rare fruit you find in the international section of the supermarket. I am a Black woman who does don't fit your mental model of who you think Fitz should have married. Exotic women are to be screwed — you don't marry them."
She is angry, and her chest rises and falls as she glares at him with contempt.
"Olivia — I would look too …"
The the sudden sharp kicks and punches send the plate falling from her hand and crashing to the floor. She grabs the side of the sink, leaning forward, and inhaling and exhaling quickly. Two more jarring kicks cause her knees to buckle and Ty catches her before she falls to the floor.
"Are you all right?" He asks in a panic-stricken voice.
"I need to sit down", she says, grabbing ahold of his arm.
"Of course — of course", carefully guiding her over to the bench. "What can I do? Do you need to go to the hospital?" Squatting and staring at her with concern. She digs her fingernails in his shoulder when she is assaulted by another stiff kick.
"I better get, Grant", Ty says, preparing to dash from the kitchen.
"No — no. I'm fine. I'm fine", panting through her mouth. "The babies have been really active lately. I think we're going to have a couple of soccer players"; she laughs lightly.
Ty looks at her curiously, he is does not know if she is delirious. He has never been around a pregnant woman.
"Are you all right?" Olivia asks, staring at his face that is as white as a sheet. "Would you like to feel?"
Ty hesitates, he has never touched a pregnant woman's stomach.
"You don't have to be afraid - they won't bite. They'll kick and punch, but they won't bite", she smiles.
Olivia places his shaking hand on her swollen stomach, and they wait for the game to begin again. Within a few seconds, the babies resume their soccer match and Ty stares at her stomach in awe.
"Wow."
"Wow", she repeats, smiling down at his face.
"There's a lot of activity going on in there. Does this happen often?"
"The older they get the more active they become. I guess they enjoyed dinner as much as I did."
"Grant always said he wanted five children", sitting on the bench next to her, and she nods her head knowingly. "Olivia - I deserved everything you said — all of it. But it's not what you think. I'm not what you think."
He sees the roll of her eyes and he begins to explain.
"The half-ass apology I gave you 10 years ago was not sufficient — and I knew it when I delivered it."
She gives him a look that says tell me something I don't already know.
"You deserved — deserve — better than that. You deserve an explanation for what I said."
"I don't want to hear —"
"Just listen to me for a minute — and if you want to kick me out afterwards— then I will gladly go."
With eyebrow raised, she examines him closely. She does not trust the man.
"Grant and I became best friends the first day we walked onto that Navy carrier. We were two twenty-something's who were in the military for totally different reasons. He's a real patriot — I — on the other hand — was there by conscription. My father demanded I enlist - or else. I was a wild kid — got into all kinds of trouble. The threats – the punishments – did nothing to change my behavior – so my father sent me to the Navy. I didn't know it at the time - but that was the best thing that could've happened to me. That's how I met my best friend."
"Grant and I have done a lot together, Olivia — many — many things together", he says with a slight smile. He clarifies the statement when he sees the roll of her eyes. "I don't simply mean the shenanigans of two young, testosterone raging men — we've also had many successful business ventures over the years. I've made your husband a wealthy man."
"My husband has helped to make you a wealthy man, Ty", Olivia snaps defensively.
"Touché", he says, saluting her with two fingers.
"When Grant moved to Church Falls — I thought it was a phase — a way to get away from …"
"Mellie."
"I was wrong. Not long after moving back home — he started calling me — going on and on about this wonderful and beautiful woman he was dating. He said the two of you were getting pretty serious and he thought you were the one. The man dated many women in the past — but he never came close to wanting to marry any of them. It was like he was waiting to find you."
Olivia eyes him suspiciously and he brushes his hand down the back of his neck, a nervous habit.
"You were breaking up the team, Olivia. Grant and I were a team for years and you were coming between us. I knew he would never move back to California if he married you."
"So - you tried to sabotage us by demeaning me?"
"I'm ashamed to admit it — but yes. I knew what the word meant - and I used it on purpose. What I did — what I said back then was childish and immature. It's what some asshole white people do when we're feeling hateful and insecure. I guess I was acting like a jealous lover", he chuckles mirthlessly.
"You had to know that Fitz was going to marry at some point – that's who he is. You just didn't want him to marry me. And you say you're not a racist", she says with disdain.
"I'm not a racist, Olivia — far from it. Insecure — yes — a racist — no. I abhor racism in my personal life and in my business. I've fired executives who have tolerated or exhibited racism."
Olivia is not convinced the man is being sincere.
"I employ thousands of people and own houses all around the world — but I have no one to share it all with. What you and Grant have built together is beautiful. I'm damn glad he didn't listen to me back then. I hope one day you can forgive me."
Olivia's stomach lurch and they both laugh; the babies are on the move again.
"What's so funny?" Fitz asks when he sees his wife and best friend sitting on one of the benches laughing like old friends.
"The babies have been putting on a spectacular show for Ty", walking over to her husband and pecking him on the lips. "Did Bowtie do his business?"
"He did", placing a hand on her wide hip.
"Good. I'm going to get the girls ready for bed so you two can continue visiting. It was good seeing you, Ty."
"You as well, Olivia."
"Don't be a stranger. Church Falls isn't that far from California— especially when you have a private jet."
"I'll be back after the soccer players are born."
"Babe, you should sit out back — it's a beautiful night", trying to take a sleeping Jolie from his arms.
"I'll help you", holding on to Jolie.
"I can handle it."
"I won't be too long, Ty."
"Go ahead — I'll finish cleaning the kitchen."
XXX
With the humidor tucked under his arm, Fitz walks out onto the patio carrying Ty's favorite bourbon and and a bottle of scotch. He places the bottles and humidor on the table next to the tray of crystal glasses that Olivia set out earlier.
"You've created yourself quite the Shangri-La, Grant", Ty says, standing at the edge of the pool's deck watching the moonlight shimmer on the water's surface.
Fitz glances over at his friend as he pours the aged bourbon into a glass. He pours a hefty amount of scotch into another glass then carries the drinks over to Ty.
"What do you mean?" Handing Ty the bourbon. Ty brings the glass to his nose and inhales deeply.
"I see you bought out the good stuff tonight."
"Cheers — I'm glad you came back for dinner", Fitz says, clinking their glasses.
"You have a wonderful life here, Grant. You've always known what you wanted and went after it. To think I tried to convince you otherwise."
"I was going to marry Liv with or without your blessing, Ty", Fitz says, bringing the glass to his mouth.
"Olivia will go to war for you — and those little girls think you're some kind of god. They all adore you."
"I'm a lucky man – but I think you may be giving me some competition. My girls are intrigued by you — they love your Southern accent and those idioms you toss around."
"Olivia — not so much", Ty chuckles lightly and Fitz looks at his friend with concern. "We're good now — we settled our differences while you and the girls were out walking that mutt — but not before she chewed me a new ass. Your wife is no push over, she has a lot of gumption."
"I'm glad you two worked things out. Liv's going to chew my ass out tomorrow about Jolie using that word.. My baby girl can cuss but she can't say potty", shaking his head.
"I like Jolie - she strips and cusses like a sailor", Ty laughs out loud.
"My family is everything to me, Ty", Fitz says as he walks over to the table and opens the humidor. The barnyard smell fills his nostrils. "Try one of these — Liv got them from a friend of a friend. She allows me to smoke one every now and then", smiling proudly as he holds the box of cigars in front of his friend.
"You've become such a wuss, Grant", Ty says, smiling with approval when he sees the expensive cigars. "Montecristo No.2s — what did I do to deserve such treatment?" Ty takes a cigar from the box, brings it to his nose, and sniffs. "Ah — this is good."
"My life isn't just my own anymore, Ty. I have a family — a wife and kids — I have to consider."
"You weren't very responsible back in the day – if I recall."
"I'm a different man now."
The two old friends sit down on the plush lounge chairs and begin the ritual of preparing to smoke a cigar. The process takes patience; it is not a race.
"Choose your fire", Fitz says, displaying the various implements used for lighting cigars.
"You know the cedar strip is the only way to go, Grant", Ty says, reaching for the thin strip of wood. Fitz nods and picks up a strip of cedar and lights it with a match. The cedar burns fast and the bright flame glows in the summer night. They hold the flame below the cigar, letting the heat travel up and toast the foot, but not light the tobacco. They puff three times to ensure the cigar is properly lit, then blow on the cigar foot, making sure it is evenly lit. They blow out the cedar strips and toss them into the glass of water.
"This is good", Ty says, puffing on the cigar. Fitz leans back in the chair, crosses his legs, and takes a long drag on the flavorful cigar. The white smoke travels upward, filling the night air with the sweet bouquet of fermented tobacco leaves.
"When are you going to settle down and start a family, Ty?"
"The kind of women I know don't cook", enjoying the flavors of bourbon and tobacco intermingling in his mouth. Fitz throws his head back with laughter, showing a mouth full of teeth.
"So — what business brings you to our fine city? I didn't think I would ever see you in Church Falls."
"I think we have company", Ty says, motioning his cigar toward the patio doors. Fitz looks over his shoulder and sees Asha standing in the doorway dressed in Betty-Boop pajamas and clutching the toy robot.
"Baaba", she calls out softly. Fitz sets the cigar in the ashtray then walks over to the little girl.
"What's the matter, sweetheart? Did you have a bad dream?" Lifting Asha in his arms.
Asha shakes her no as she peeks over his shoulder at Ty.
"Are you thirsty — do you want something to drink?" Asha shakes her head from side to side again.
"Baaba — you smell funny." Fitz smiles and pecks the little girl on the cheek.
"Let's get you back to bed — I'll sit with you until you fall asleep. Okay?" Asha nods her head up and down.
"I'll be back shortly, Ty."
"Good night, Li'l Darlin'", Ty says with a wave of his hand.
"Good night", Asha replies, quickly burying her face in Fitz' neck.
XXX
With Asha tucked back in bed, Fitz returns to the patio, picks up the bottle from the table, and splash more bourbon into Ty's glass. He freshens his drink as well.
"Is the Li'l Darlin' all right?" Ty asks, puffing on the cigar.
"She's fine. She sometimes has difficulty sleeping", Fitz says, reaching for his cigar.
"Who is Asha to you and Olivia - and what the hell does Baaba mean?"
"Asha and Cena met in dance class and they became friends right away. Coincidentally - Asha's mother – Kelly - worked for the same company as Liv. When Asha started spending more time at our home — we needed to figure out what she should call us. She wanted a father — needed a father - and I was willing to give her the attention she deserves. But - calling me daddy was not appropriate— of course."
Ty nods his head.
"My mother-in-law— who does missionary work in Africa with her husband — suggested Asha call me Baaba – which basically means I am willing to be the male figure in her life. GoGo means dear aunt."
"That's a sweet story."
"Unfortunately— the story doesn't have a happy ending. Asha's mother passed away suddenly a few months ago."
"Poor kid", Ty says, slumping back in the chair.
"She didn't have any family to speak of — so she's living with us for now."
"She seems to be happy living here — at least as happy she can be under the circumstances. You're a goddamn saint, Grant. You always wanted a house full of kids."
Fitz brings the glass to his mouth, thinking he does not feel like a saint.
"You're a good man, Grant—always going after what you want — although I thought you were a damn fool to walk away from your business and get into politics. The whole political thing never made sense to me. I didn't get it at first — but I get it now. I must say — I really admire this setup you have going on here. Pure genius."
Futz furrows his brow.
"Do you remember that little tech company you acquired for me from those pimply faced kids down in Santa Clarita? They were building robots in their momma's basement. They had a good idea but couldn't secure the capital to take their idea to the next level."
Fitz slowly nods, trying to remember the details of the acquisition.
"Well — those pimply faced kids have created something that will change policing in this country forever. Policing is big business, Grant — big business. It's also expensive. The labor costs are getting out of control: unions - pension funds - collective bargaining - you know the drill."
Fitz nods because the city is grappling with the same problem.
"What does this have to do with the tech company?" Fitz asks, crossing his legs and taking another sip of scotch.
"We've been testing some radical technology that will cut policing costs for municipalities across the country. That robot little Asha carries around is not just a toy — it's the future of policing. It's your answer to your city's economic development problem."
Fitz looks at Ty skeptically.
"Grant —human policing is anachronistic — robot policing is the future."
"I don't understand."
"Think about it, Grant — human crime-fighters can be replaced with machines."
"Are you talking about some sort of Robocop?" Fitz asks jokingly.
"As a matter-of-fact I am — kind of", Ty says seriously, holding the cigar between his middle and index fingers and leaning forward in the chair. "Do you know the millions of dollars municipalities can save by replacing humans with robots?"
Fitz nods, he finally understands what Ty is saying.
"Robots can help to identify wanted criminals and collect evidence and patrol busy areas in the city. They can be used in parking areas to issue warnings about traffic violations. Future models will eventually be used to chase down suspects. Robots can reduce - if not eliminate - police shootings and profiling. And - the real benefit — they can work around the clock — and they won't ask for sick leave or maternity leave. Now ain't that beautiful."
"This all sounds interesting— but why are you telling me?"
"I want in. I want you to set up the meeting."
"Set up the meeting? What meeting and with whom?" Incredulity filling his voice.
"Come on, Grant — don't be coy with me — this is your old friend Ty you're talking to. This scheme you have going on here — well it's pure brilliant. I always knew you were smart. With you controlling the city's purse strings and the council vote — and maybe one day becoming mayor - it's just a matter of time before they get everything they've been lobbying for years."
"What the hell are you talking about?"
"I want you to set up a meeting with your old man", Ty says, leaning back in the chair and taking another swig of bourbon.
"My father? What the hell does my father have to do with your Robocops?"
"Privatizing law enforcement provides competition — an alternative — to the monopoly of public policing. Your father gets that. When I learned that he and his cohort were making a play to privatize the city's police department — I knew I'd better get my ass to Church Falls. Listen — I just want a piece of the action. My Robocops can save millions in policemen salaries and benefits. Your father can pocket the savings and I get the exclusive contract to supply robots to his police department. It's a win-win for everybody."
"You must be drunk", Fitz says, shaking his head at what sounds like the ramblings of someone who is intoxicated.
"Not yet. I just want in. My idea can make us all even richer."
"My father is a retired businessman — has been for several years", scoffing at the notion that his father is involved with trying to privatize the police force..
"I know that your father has been greasing the palms of local officials for decades. I assumed that's how you got elected to City Council."
"My father didn't have a damn thing to do with me getting elected. I won that election fair and square", no longer amused by his misinformed friend's rantings.
"Have it your way — but your city is no different than others, Grant. All municipal governments across this great country are corrupt to a certain extent. I'm not ashamed to admit that I've had to pay off a few politicians in San Jose to change zoning laws so I could build my new headquarters. I had to pay to play. We all tip the scales in our favor — you know that."
"There's no game being played here, Ty."
"Your predecessor, Marla Briggs, was dirty. For years she stole from the city's coffers and took bribes from your father. Your former mayor — who now sits in a federal pen for corruption — also took bribes from said father. All politicians have their hand out - everybody wants to get paid. I don't blame them", puffing on the cigar.
"You don't know what the hell you're talking about. Where are you getting this information?"
"Your father and his friends", making air quotes with his fingers, "have been after the city's police department for years. That's one of the many reasons why they have bribed local officials.
"The policies people like Marla Briggs and Mayor Wilson put in place have led to the deterioration of the police department. They made sure the department wouldn't be strong. They opened the door for privatization – they opened the door for your father."
"You're a goddamn liar", Fitz yells, jumping to his feet with fire in his eyes. "My father is not involved in bribing politicians", hand now balled into a fist.
Ty looks up at his animated friend and realizes that Grant is clueless about who his father really is. Shit, thinking once again he has blabbed too much, but the cat is out the bag.
"I'm sorry to tell you this, Grant — but your father runs one of the most influential cabals on the Pacific Coast— has for decades — and those people don't answer to any political system."