A/N: This is the penultimate chapter for this story and it's a big one. Coming up next is the Epilogue, which will answer all open questions. Enjoy and tell me what you think.
Chapter 78. Family Legacies
The window blinds and curtains are shuttered but a ray of moonlight still manages to creep into the nursery casting a soft shadow over the sleeping baby's face. Sitting in one of the large pillowback gliders, Fitz cradles the infant. He cannot stop admiring his son during their late-night talks. Stretching his tiny body in his father's arms, Dylan Atticus Grant turns his head in the direction of the familiar voice.
"I've been waiting for you for so long. We're going to have so much fun — but I need to school you about a few things. You've increased the testosterone level in the house — but we're still outnumbered around here — four to two. We'll have to stick together. I've been fighting the good fight for the past nine years — but your mommy and sisters are tough. Daisy is going to be tough — too. I can tell."
"We've been waiting for him," Olivia says sleepily from the doorway. Fitz smiles, realizing once again he has been caught. "Father and son talks already?" Olivia says, walking into the nursery and stopping at Daisy's crib. She pulls the lightweight blanket over Daisy's stomach.
"I thought I heard him crying."
"You can't hold him all the time, Fitz. You'll spoil him."
"I know," smiling unashamedly.
"You must stop interrupting his sleep."
"He was crying."
"I didn't hear him."
"Because you were sleeping. Snoring actually."
"I don't snore."
"Mommy snores," Fitz says playfully, as he smiles lovingly at Dylan. "She wouldn't hear thunder."
"Don't tell my son that."
"I want to teach him everything, Liv. Tell him all about life."
"He has your nose, babe."
Fitz smiles because he has been thinking the same thing. He taps Dylan on the tip of his nose.
"I wonder who they're going to be … what their personalities will be like. Should we think about them in tandem?"
"Just because they were born at the same time doesn't mean we should treat them the same."
"Actually, Daisy is older — by two minutes. She couldn't wait to get here," Olivia chuckles lightly.
"I told you, Champ. Pushy women."
"Navigating four different personalities is going to be a huge job. Frankly — it's a little scary. Cee and Jo are so different. Cee is compliant and loves to dress up in pretty clothes. Jo is defiant and hates wearing clothes."
"Of any kind," Fitz laughs quietly, not wanting to startleDylan.
"I don't want to mess them up, Fitz. I want to be a good mother."
"You are a good mother," he says, pulling her down onto his lap. "They'll be fine. We'll be fine."
"Cee says Dylan is a crybaby."
"He just needs to get used to his new home."
Silence fills the nursery as mother and father revel at the sight of their baby boy.
"Put him back in his crib, babe. He needs his sleep and I don't want to wake Daisy."
"Sunny won't wake until dawn."
"Sunny?" Looking at her husband with brow arched.
"My little girl is an early bird. Sun is a rare thing here most of the year — but we've managed to see a sunrise or two."
"I had no idea."
"That's because you're sleeping … and snoring,"
"Jo is regressing."
"It's temporary."
"I know it's temporary. I just don't know how long this phase is going to last. Yesterday she wanted me to nurse her. She tried to push Daisy aside so she could suckle."
"I want to push Daisy aside so I can suckle," he laughs softly.
"I'm serious, Fitz. I don't want Jo to feel left out. She thinks she's lost her status in the family."
"Then we'll give her a new status."
"What do you mean?"
"For the past three-and-a-half years Jo was the baby, Cena's little sister. As the baby she got a lot of attention."
"You mean she demanded a lot of attention," Olivia corrects him.
"Daisy and Dylan are now the babies and she is a big sister. Don't tell her who she isn't — tell her who she is. She has a different rank now."
Olivia nods, watching him adjust the knit cap on Dylan's head.
"A new cap? When did you buy that?"
"A while ago," smiling down at his son.
"Does Daisy have one?"
"What?"
"Did you buy a Navy cap for your daughter?"
"I have something else for her."
"Oh my God. All of this time I thought you were a feminist. You're actually a sexist."
"Not true."
"Is true."
"I got Sunny a blue headband with gold anchors on it," motioning his head toward Daisy's dresser.
"Aww, babe — it's adorable."
"Just because they're twins doesn't mean they should always dress alike," he says, carefully placing Dylan back into his crib.
Olivia rolls her eyes and stops at Daisy's crib again on the way out of the nursery thinking she needs to show her mother Daisy's new headband.
XXX
"We're going to need a bigger house," Fitz says as he climbs into the bed.
"A bigger house? Why on earth would we need a bigger house? We have plenty of room here."
"We don't. Not really. We now have four children. Dylan will need his own room soon."
"Babe — he's only four weeks old," Olivia shakes her head thinking her husband is being ridiculous.
"Time flies, Liv. He'll be driving soon."
"You better get some sleep. Your paternity leave ended today. Back to the grindstone tomorrow."
He silently groans. He does not want to deal with what awaits him at City Hall.
"I'm going back to Grant Consulting," he blurts out and Olivia looks over at him wondering how he went from discussing the need for a bigger house to announcing he is returning to his law practice.
"I told you I'd support whatever you wanted to do. I just want you to be happy."
"I want to open an office in New York City," closely studying her face for a reaction.
"Does Geoffrey want to move back to New York?"
"I'll be running the New York office."
"You want to move to New York City?" She asks skeptically knowing that he hates living in the city.
"I want to open an office in New York City. I want us to move to Connecticut."
"Move to Connecticut?" Staring at him in disbelief.
"Geoffrey will continue to manage the business from Church Falls. I'll take on a handful of marquee clients … three or four. You know they've missed working with me."
"You're serious," she says, leaning back against the headboard and folding her arms across her full breasts.
"I can commute. The train ride from Greenwich to New York City is only 45 minutes … an hour tops. I'll leave my car at the Greenwich train station."
"Greenwich? It sounds like you figured out everything."
"We can start over … put everything behind us."
"We just had two babies, Fitz. Our family and friends are all here."
"We can visit them periodically. They can visit us — too — if they want. Think about it — we'll get four seasons and a lot more sunshine throughout the year."
"Fitz —what is this all about?"
"We can make it work, Liv. Take this leap of faith with me," pecking her on the cheek before turning off his lamp.
With her back pressed against the upholstered headboard, Olivia lightly taps her index finger to her lips, wondering what has prompted her husband to want to move to Connecticut of all places. He has been acting oddly lately, but he repeatedly denies that anything is wrong. She knows otherwise. For a long moment she stares at her sleeping husband then expels a heavy sigh before turning off her lamp. She does not want to move to the East Coast. She does not want to move to Connecticut. Their entire life is in Church Falls.
XXX
The rat-a-tat knock on the door snatches Fitz' attention from the dense piece of legislation he has been studying for the past few hours. He is playing catch-up after taking a few weeks of paternity leave.
"Welcome back, Council President Grant."
Fitz looks up and glares at the portly man who is filling the office doorway.
"I hope the babies are well. Tell Olivia I said hello," Darius says as he walks into the office and stands in front of the desk
"What the hell do you want?" Fitz says in a biting tone.
"We have a deal. I was gracious enough to extend your deadline — give you a grace period since you expanded your family. But time is up," Darius grins triumphantly rubbing together his beefy hands.
"There's no deal," Fitz says angrily as he stands from his seat and walks around the desk.
"Let's not play this game, Fitz. You're going to step down as Council President. You're going to endorse me to be this city's next mayor. If you don't you'll spend a very — very long time in prison. Those twins will be in college by the time you get out."
"Tell me, Darius — how does it feel to be a loser? How does it feel to know you'll never be me — never have what I have?"
"You were a prince. All of your life your daddy gave you everything. Well — daddy is taking it all away and I am here to assist him. "
"How does it feel to be my daddy's puppet? To humiliate and degrade yourself for so little. To jump and dance when he pulls your strings."
"You privileged bastard. I'll see your ass under the prison," reacting to the implied insult.
"If you have a scrap of dignity left — you'll end your alliance with my father. Continuing down this path won't end well for you."
"Let me worry about my dignity. I want your answer by the end of the week, Fitzgerald," Darius says, storming from the office in a huff.
Fitz pinches the bridge of his nose and shuts his eyes tight. The headaches are becoming more frequent. There is nothing satisfying about his verbal sparring matches with Darius. In fact, the exchanges are mentally exhausting. He looks down at his watch and sighs. He knows when he gets home Olivia will once again demand an explanation about the change in his behavior. But he is not ready to confess what has him riled up. He is not ready to tell her that being blackmail makes a man behave erratically.
XXX
"He can't eat that, Jo." Cena snaps at her little sister.
"Why not?" Jolie asks, innocently looking up at her older sister.
"Because he'll get sick."
"Why?"
"Just don't give it to him. Don't give Bowtie anything."
"Cena. Don't speak to your sister like that," Olivia says, looking at Cena with concern.
"But she's going to make Bowtie sick again, mommy."
"Then you must explain to her why Bowtie can't eat certain foods. Don't yell at her. Finish your dinner so you can get ready for bed."
"Yes, mommy," Cena says, poking out her bottom lip as she climbs back onto her seat next to her father who seems oblivious to his surroundings.
"Fitzgerald — have you made a decision about the school funding? It's my understanding the consultants submitted their recommendations to you several months ago."
"I told you before — I'm not going to discuss city policy with you, Calvin. Please don't ask me again."
"Don't fly off at me, son. I have no chip on my shoulder you need to knock off."
"Fitz!" Olivia says, shocked by her husband's rudeness.
"I'm sorry. Excuse me. I'm going to bed," Fitz mumbles as he exits the kitchen. Olivia hurries behind him, following him upstairs to their bedroom.
"What is wrong with you?"
"Your father — "
"This is not about my father and you know it. You've been grumpy for the past few weeks and I want to know what's going on. And don't tell me nothing. I know better."
"Liv …"
"Enough with the secrets. I want to know why my husband is moping around his family like he's lost his best friend. I want to know why he suddenly wants to uproot his family and move to Connecticut of all places."
"I had a rough day." Darius really got under his skin.
"You forget— I know you. I know when something is bothering you. You're not sleeping. You're up all hours of the night."
He sighs. "It's nothing. I'll be fine."
"I know that you tried to choke your father because he showed up at the hospital. Is that what has you so on edge?"
"He had no right being there."
'You scared Cena and now she's picking up your bad behavior. You heard her yell at Jo."
"I apologized to my daughter."
"Really, Fitz? Do you think an apology will make your eight-year-old daughter forget you attacked her grandfather?"
"I'm going to take a shower."
"Whatever is going on is affecting our family and I want to know what it is."
He glares at her. He does not want to argue tonight, but starting an argument is the only way he can stop her from pressuring him.
"Why didn't you tell me that Councilman Stephens was introducing an enhancement to your safe injection sites proposal?"
"What? Why are you changing the subject?" Her brow crinkles and her eyes fill with confusion.
"You let me get blindsided. I didn't learn about it until council was ready to meet. I haven't had time to read all of the new proposals since I've been back to work."
"I did no such thing."
"He wants to install vending machines throughout the city to dispense Narcan. They're calling it My Narcan. Pfft."
"I didn't know — but it sounds like a good idea."
"Your friend Gray has gone too far."
"You don't get to decide how far Gray should go. He's doing what's best for those who are struggling with addiction. He is doing the right thing."
"That's where you're wrong, Olivia. I do get to decide. I am the President of City Council or have you forgotten that — too?"
"Babe — what's wrong?" Softening her tone as she takes a step toward him. "Tell me what's bothering you."
"Will you stop nagging me, dammit. I said nothing's wrong!"
Her eyes widen with shock and he continues with the distraction.
"You withheld information from me. I don't like being deceived. You should've told me."
"One — I told you I didn't know. Two — I don't work for you."
"Right. You're working against me."
"I'm not. I've been too busy taking care of four children and walking on eggshells around my irrational husband."
"Your friend is being greedy. He should've settled for the one injection site. Now he gets nothing. The proposal will die in council. I'll see to it."
"Who are you? What's happened to you?" Staring at him with horror in her eyes. He looks over at the bedroom door and expels a heavy sigh. Dylan is awake.
"I'm going to sit with my son."
With brow crinkled, Olivia watches her husband leave the bedroom thinking she needs to get to the bottom of the change in his behavior.
XXX
Jolie has been sneaking into her parents' bedroom in the mornings to cuddle with her mother and play with her father's phone while he gets ready for work. She is not interested in her new role as a big sister. She still wants to be the baby.
Carrying Jolie in his arms, Fitz enters the kitchen delivering a perfunctory greeting to his family and Jeffries.
"Breakfast this morning, Mr. Grant?" Jeffries asks.
"No — not this morning. Thank you, Jeffries. I have to get going,"
I'll call you later," Fitz says, bending down and kissing Olivia on the cheek. Ignoring his gesture, Olivia continues to stare down at a nursing Daisy. Jolie leans over in her father's arms and kisses her mother on the cheek, too. Olivia smiles at her precocious toddler.
"Get your bookbag, Princess and let's go. We don't want to miss the school bus," sliding his phone from Jolie's grasp as he stands her on the floor.
"Okay, daddy. By mommy. Bye Nana. Bye GranPop. Bye Jeffries."
"Goodbye, Cena."
"Have a good day, Big Little."
Cena stops, looks at her little sister, and gives her a few parting words while shaking her finger.
"Jo — don't feed Bowtie anything while I'm at school."
Jolie stares at her sister and Olivia watches Cena run from the kitchen. She will have a talk with her daughter this evening.
"Livvia — is everything all right with Fitzgerald?" Her mother asks.
"Come on, Jo. We have work to do," Jeffries says, escorting his little helper from the kitchen so Mrs. Grant and her parents can speak privately.
"I don't know, mom. He's been like a different person since I got home from the hospital."
"I've noticed the change as well. Is this about his father?"
"He's a troubled man," Calvin says knowingly as he stares down into the cup of black coffee.
"I don't know what it is. He won't say. Mom — dad — can you watch the babies for a few hours? I need to run an errand."
"Of course. Take your time," Calvin says.
"Everything's going to be all right, Livvia," Gwendolyn says as she lifts Dylan from his carrier.
XXX
Pacing around the office in circles, Olivia nervously twists her wedding set to the point it is becoming uncomfortable on her finger. Concern and anxiety sent her rushingto her best friend. She needs him to help her to make sense of her husband's behavior. She stops pacing and looks over at the door.
"Liv — I didn't know you were here. I just got out of surgery," Ben says, looking at her curiously as he closes the door.
"I'm sorry … I should've called first ... I just …"
"What's the matter? What's wrong?" Ben asks and Olivia immediately rushes over to him.
"Ben — everything is falling apart."
"What do you mean? What's happened?" He asks quickly when he sees the concern in her eyes.
"It's Fitz. He's been behaving erratically. Something's troubling him, Ben — and he won't tell me."
"What is he doing?"
"He's angry and argumentative. Lately — it seems like he is agitated by everything I say and do."
"That doesn't sound like Fitz."
"Well — it's him. He's hiding something, Ben. We promised not to keep secrets anymore."
"Maybe he's stressed about the job. Is something going on at City Hall?"
"I don't know… He says he's fine... He's not fine." She starts pacing around the office again.
"How long has this been going on? When did you first notice this change?"
"After I came home from the hospital. God — does he regret having more children? Is it too much for him?"
"That's insane. Everybody knows Fitz always wanted a house full of children. He'd have a dozen if it were up to him."
"He wants to move to Connecticut, Ben. I want to support him … I do. But …" She stops pacing and massages her forehead, a nervous habit when she is flustered.
"He wants to do what?"
"It seemed to come out of nowhere … but he's obviously been thinking about it for a while. Moving across the country … away from Church Falls … Cena has school … our family is here."
"Calm down and breathe, Liv."
"I'm sinking, Ben. I don't know what to do."
"I hate to ask — but do you think he's using again?"
"What?! Oh — my God! No ... I don't know ... He wouldn't … I won't forgive him this time …" Her voice rising with anxiety.
"Stop it, Liv. You're getting yourself all worked up."
"I'll leave him, Ben. I swear. I'll take the children and …"
Ben grabs her by the shoulders and presses his lips against hers. His eyes close and he deepens the kiss. Her lips are everything he imagined. The feeling, however, is ephemeral. He feels her stiffen under his grasp and he quickly steps back, embarrassment ant shame blanketing his face. His heart is a jackhammer in his chest. Frozen in place, Olivia stares at him with eyes wide as saucers.
"Liv … I … I … I didn't mean …"
"I … I have to go," she sputters, snatching her purse from the desk.
"Don't go … I'm sorry…"
Olivia hurries from the office mumbling something about her mother and the babies.
Fuck! Fuck. Fuck. Fuck.
Ben paces around the office, stopping and starting like an anxious caged animal. This was never supposed to happen.
What the hell was I thinking? She is my best friend. She's my brother's wife for God's sake.
A little self-castigation is not sufficient to let him off the hook, so his inner voice forces him to admit the truth to himself. There was nothing spontaneous about the kiss. He has fantasized about how her lips would feel against his. He has fantasized about his brother's wife in ways he should not. He kicks the chair with such force it sails across the room and crashes against the file cabinet. He is beside himself with guilt. He does not know what to do. Should he go after her? Should he call her? He rakes his fingers through his hair thinking he will never forget the look of horror in her eyes. The light knock on the door grabs his attention.
"Ben," Olivia says softly, standing just inside the doorway tightly clutching the straps of her purse.
He takes a step toward her and she instinctively steps back and his heart sinks. She introduced him to running track. He taught her how to play video games. They shared floats and fries at Sparky's. They have shared so much. Now she is repulsed by him. Now she cannot stand to be near him.
"Liv … I'm sorry … I –"
"If I ever –"
"You didn't."
"If I misled you …" continuing her apology. "I never meant to …"
"This is on me. I was wrong. It won't happen again," he hurriedly adds.
"I … I … have to go. Mom is watching the children," she says, quickly turning to leave.
"Are we still friends?" He timidly calls out and she turns and looks at the pained expression on his face.
"Of course," flashing him a nervous smile. "I have to go," she says, hurrying from the office again.
Ben stares out the window thinking he did a stupid thing and now their friendship is over. He has ruined everything. His heart jumps at the sound of the soft knock on the door. Perhaps she has forgiven him. Maybe they can continue on as before. He will make sure it does not happen again. He turns away from the window with hope in his eyes.
"Dr. Grant, Dr. Canfield is waiting for you in Conference Room 407A."
XXX
Face twisted with annoyance, Abby stomps down the hall toward the front door to see who is pressing on the doorbell and pounding on the door. She is going to give whoever it is a piece of her mind. She just put Connor down for his nap. She cannot wait for Marta to return from vacation.
"Olivia— what the hell?"
"We need to talk," Olivia says, pushing pass/past a stunned Abby and swiftly walking up the hall toward the family room.
"What's the matter? What's wrong?" Abby asks, scurrying behind her.
"Ben kissed me," staring at Abby with panic in her eyes.
"What do you mean he kissed you?" Abby says as her distraught friend nervously paces around the room. Olivia stops pacing and stares at Abby with fear in her eyes.
"He kissed me, Abby. What do I do?" Looking at her friend for answers.
"You mean like a real kiss?" Abby asks, her green eyes dancing at the thought of finally getting some juicy information. Being a stay-at-home mother can be boring sometimes.
"A real kiss," Olivia says, shaking like a leaf.
"Was it good? Did you like it?" Abby asks, wiggling her eyebrows with excitement.
"No."
"Not even a little?"
"This is serious, Abby. What do I do?"
"Sit down and tell me everything. And I mean everything."
"Fitz has been agitated and argumentative lately. He won't tell me what's bothering him. Abby — he wants us to move to Connecticut."
"Wait! You're moving to Connecticut and I'm just hearing about it? You can't leave me here alone with those crazy Grants, Olivia."
"Nothing's final — but Fitz is serious."
"You better let me know when you decide. Now — when did Benjamin kiss you?"
"Before I came here. I went to the hospital to talk to him about Fitz' behavior. I guess I was upset … Maybe he was trying … I don't know … "Nervously rubbing her temple. Abby shakes her head thinking the kiss is disturbing on so many levels.
"What did you do? What did you say?"
"Nothing at first. I got out of there. I didn't know what else to do … what to think. By the time I got down to the lobby I knew I couldn't leave things like that so I went back to his office and apologized."
"Apologized? Why the heck would you apologize?"
"He was so devastated. You should've seen him."
"Don't make excuses for that sneak. He's been waiting for an opportunity like this for years."
"I'm at my wits end, Abby."
"You know this was bound to happen don't you?"
"What do you mean?" Giving Abby a perplexed look.
"You and Benjamin have been doing this dance ever since I've known you."
"What are you talking about?" Olivia says with irritation in her voice.
"Olivia — please. Don't act like you didn't know Benjamin has had the hots for you for a very long time. Everyone in this screwed up family knows. It's a taboo topic. I think that doctor girlfriend knew — too. I think that's why they broke up."
"You don't know what you're talking about," Olivia says, jumping to her feet and pacing again.
"Tell me, Olivia — why did you go to Benjamin to discuss your marriage? You could've talked to your mother — to Mona — to someone better-suited than your husband's brother. Hell — you could've come here first. You're here now."
Olivia crinkles her brow.
"Are you blaming me for what happened? Am I responsible for Ben's actions?"
"This is not about blame. And no — you're not responsible for Benjamin's actions. Ask yourself — why do you keep involving him in your marriage after your husband asked you not to?"
"He's my friend."
"Do friends stick their tongue down each other's throat?"
"You're being disgusting."
"Why am I the disgusting one? I didn't kiss you."
Olivia rolls her eyes.
"Listen — I love you like a sister so I'm going to be frank with you. You know I'm not Fitzgerald's number one fan. He's a hothead and has control tendencies. But Olivia — that man is crazy about you. He loves you more than anything and he loves his children. He doesn't deserve what's been going on with you and his little brother."
"Nothing's been going on, Abby," Olivia shoots back with annoyance in her voice Abby raises her hand to halt Olivia's denial.
"Fitzgerald been nothing but patient with you and Benjamin."
"What are you talking about?"
"Why did you go see Benjamin?"
"I told you. I — "
"What action did you want or expect Benjamin to take? Did you want him to tell Fitzgerald he can't make decisions for his own family? Was he to tell your husband that moving to Connecticut or anywhere else is unacceptable? What did you want?"
"I don't know. I just needed to talk to my friend."
"What am I — chopped liver?"
"You know what I mean," Olivia says, pacing around the room again.
"Jonathan told me not to say anything— but under the circumstances… Fitzgerald met with Benjamin a while back and basically told him to stay out of his marriage."
"What?!"
"You're no longer that thirteen-year-old girl who Benjamin took under his wing when you moved to Church Falls. You're a married woman now. You're married to your best friend's brother for God's sake."
Trying to fight back the tears, Olivia repeatedly blinks her eyes as she processes what Abby is saying.
"Perhaps your friendship with Benjamin has run its course."
"I have to go. Mom is alone with the children," grabbing her purse from the coffee table and stomping toward the front door.
"Olivia — whatever you do — don't tell Fitzgerald about the kiss. He'll want to kill Benjamin."
XXX
Confused by the kiss, Olivia sits on the side of the bed half-heartedly performing her nightly routine. She has been racking her brain all evening trying to come to terms with what happened. Going to see Ben only made things worse. She sighs at the sound of Fitz' heavy footsteps walking down the hall's hardwood floors toward their bedroom. She is not in the mood to deal with his secrets.
"Is Jo sleeping?" Olivia asks, pulling the towel from around her head.
"She is. She wants to know when Daisy and Dylan are going home," he chuckles lightly.
"She doesn't want to be a big sister," Olivia says flatly.
"Your hair has gotten really long."
"Mm-hmm," she says, tightening the lid on the cream.
"You've been quiet all evening. Are you all right?"
She flashes him a look of disbelief.
"I'm sorry I yelled at you. You didn't deserve that."
"Mm-hmm."
"Are you ever going to talk to me again?"
"Are you ever going to tell me what's going on with you?" Looking over at him standing at the foot of the bed.
"Liv …."
"That's what I thought," she says, bending over at the waist to rub the cream on her leg.
"I'm being blackmailed," he confesses, anxiously forking his long fingers through his hair.
"Blackmailed?!" Looking over him with large eyes.
"I never wanted you to know."
Heart pounding in her chest, Olivia rushes over to him, and stares up at him with large eyes.
"Who would want to blackmail you?"
"Darius," he says in a somber tone.
"Darius? Why in the world would Darius want to blackmail you?" Her eyes frantically searching his face for answers.
"He's working for my father. They're working together."
"How is Darius working for Gerry? Darius is a councilman."
"Darius and my father have one thing in common — they both hate me. They want to take me down. My father promised Darius he'd get him elected as mayor if he forced me to step down as Council President."
"What?"
"If my father and his so-called business partners control the mayor and the Council President — then they control the city. They will get whatever legislation they want passed that benefits their cause."
"What are they blackmailing you with?"
He pinches the bridge of his nose and expels a heavy sigh. Another headache is building behind his eyes.
"Darius knows about the payment I made to Barbara Anne. He knows the document is fraudulent."
"What? How does Darius know any of this?"
"My father — of course. Darius is threatening to leak the document to the media if I don't resign and endorse him as the next mayor."
"Gerry won't allow that to happen — you're his son."
"Gerry will do anything to advance his agenda. If this comes out, Liv — we could lose everything. The foundation. Grant Consulting. I could go to prison."
"Prison?"
Heart pounding and stomach flip-flopping, Olivia paces around the spacious bedroom nervously rubbing her forehead.
"What aren't you telling me? There has to be more to this than your father wanting to rule the world," she asks shakily.
"Liv …"
"Tell me."
"My father and his partners have methodically replaced all or part of the most critical leadership systems — administrative apparatus — and bureaucracy in every state across the Pacific Northwest. He owned Mayor Wilson. He owned Marla. They needed Charlie to be Council President. I disrupted their plans when I won the election."
He pauses, scanning her face to see if she understands what he is not saying. When she gasps, he steels himself against the fury he knows is about to rain down on him.
"Oh my god! Your father hired Charlie to kill us?"
"He said he didn't know what Charlie was up to. He said he never met him. He said Mayor Wilson was supposed to control Charlie — but Charlie hated me — for many reasons."
"Your father tried to kill our children?!"
"Liv."
"This is surreal. It's insane."
"Sit down, Liv," he says, seeing that she is close to a meltdown.
"I don't want to sit down. This is why you've been feuding with him — why you've been moody lately? How long have you known?"
"A while."
"How long is a while?"
"When I learned about his business affiliations."
"You mean you've been lying to me for all these months. How dare you keep something like this from me."
"I've never lied to you."
"Don't you dare lawyer talk me. A lie by omission is still a lie."
"I was protecting you."
"You're doing it again. You're taking away my voice. You don't get to make these decisions alone."
"That was not my intent. It wasn't a good time to tell you," he says, alluding to her antepartum depression.
"How. Dare. You!"
"Liv."
"I'm not weak! I'm not some damsel in distress. I don't need you to protect me!"
"Don't you get it? It is my responsibility to protect you. I won't let anyone harm you and our children again."
"Keeping secrets is disrespectful — no matter the intention."
He closes his eyes and inhales deeply.
"Can we just calm down and discuss this rationally? "Reaching out to touch her arm, but she snatches it away.
"Don't you ever touch …"
She stops mid-sentence and glares at him with fire in her eyes. Her first thought cannot be her only thought. Words spoken in anger are like a bullet fired from a gun. Once discharged they cannot be withdrawn. Seething with anger, she bangs her balled fist against her leg, instead,
"I am so angry with you!" She yells withtears streaming down her face.
"I know."
"That man has been a fixture in our home. He's played with our children … ate at our table."
"He'll never see them again. I promise," he says, staring down at the patterns in the Persian rug.
"You damn right he won't!"
This is the most volatile and consequential argument they have ever had in almost ten years of marriage. With chests heaving up and down, they stare at each other. Her eyes are cold with anger and his are filled with sadness. The unmistakable cries coming from the nursery break the stare down.
"I'll get him," Fitz says, beginning to walk toward the bedroom door.
"No. I'll get him. I want to make sure my son is safe," sneering at him before storming from the bedroom.
With downcast eyes, Fitz stares at the rug, remembering the day they bought it. They were at Feingold's Furniture Store shopping for furniture for their new home when they quickly learned that they had vastly different tastes in furniture and décor. They could not agree on anything: sofa, table, chair, lamps, or a bed. But, finally, they agreed on the brightly colored wool rug hanging on the wall at the back of the store. He will never forget how her eyes lit up when she saw it. He knew in that moment he would do anything to see that look in her eyes. Anxious to get their new purchase home, they declined the store's delivery service and stuffed the rug into the back of his two-door BMW. He smiles as he thinks about how they struggled to carry the rug up the long staircase to their bedroom. For weeks they slept on the rug and made love on the rug until they found a bed they both liked. He brushes his foot back and forth over the rug thinking that day seems like a lifetime ago.
XXX
For the past few mornings, the kitchen has been a somber place, but Cena is the only one who is unaware of the change in her parents' demeanor. She happily updates everyone about the activities her teachers have planned for the children today.
"Let's go, Princess — we don't want to miss the bus," Fitz says, standing Jolie on the floor and sliding his phone from her hand.
"Daddy, GranPop is driving me to school today. Don't you remember?"
"I forgot," Fitz smiles weakly, brushing her bang to the side. "Have a good day at school, Princess," kissing the top of Cena's head.
"Your chariot awaits, my lady," Calvin says, bowing in front of Cena.
"Bye, mommy. Bye, daddy. Bye Nana. Bye Jeffries," Cena says as she runs from the kitchen.
"I bid everyone adieu. I shall return shortly," Calvin says, pecking his wife on the cheek.
"I better get going — too. I'll call you later," Fitz says, bending down to kiss Olivia but she turns away her head. Rocking a sleeping Dylan in her arms, Gwendolyn looks over at her daughter and wonders what is wrong with the two lovebirds this morning.
"Hug, daddy," Jolie says with a toothy smile and outstretched arms. Fitz swoops up the toddler again and pretends to gobble her chubby cheek. Jolie expels a raucous belly laugh that reverberates throughout the kitchen.
"Daddy has to go to work, Angel," standing Jolie back onto the floor. "Have a good day, Gwendolyn. Jeffries."
"You as well, Fitzgerald," Gwendolyn says.
"Have a good day, Mr. Grant," Jeffries calls out.
XXX
The kitchen is quiet now that Fitz has left for City Hall and Calvin has taken Cena to school. Jeffries and Jolie are working upstairs so Olivia and Gwendolyn can have time alone to talk. Daisy and Dylan are sound asleep in their baby carriers that Gwendolyn placed in front of her on the granite island top. She loves watching them sleep, but she wants to waken them, but her daughter will be annoyed. Olivia wants to keep them on a schedule.
"I am so angry, mom," Olivia says, setting the tea kettle on one of the stove's front burners.
"I can tell," Gwendolyn says, thinking her daughter is hotter than the blue flame that is heating the tea kettle.
"Gerry knew that Charlie tried to kill us. He wanted Charlie to be the President of City Council."
"What?" Gwendolyn screeches, causing Dylan and Daisy to flinch.
"It's all about Gerry and his business partners' plans to rule the world. It's so ridiculous."
"That certainly explains why Fitzgerald is angry with his father."
"Fitz didn't tell me, mom. He's known for months and he said nothing. I hate that he kept it a secret from me."
"The deeper a man's affection for his family — the greater his fears," Gwendolyn says in a wise tone.
"I won't forgive him for this. I won't."
"Livvia — I don't know what kind of agreements you and Fitzgerald have made for your marriage — but as a woman and your mother who's been around for a while — I will tell you there are times when you have to let a man be a man."
Olivia's rolls her eyes. "Mom — please — that kind of thinking is outdated."
"It's not as outdated as you may think. A man — a real man — will use whatever means he has to protect his family."
"I don't need Fitz to protect me, mom. I can look out for myself just fine. Do you know how humiliating it is to be thought of as weak?"
"Fitzgerald doesn't think you're weak, baby. He knows you're an independent and strong woman."
"He didn't think I could handle the truth about his father and Charlie."
"Have you considered how difficult it's been for him to keep this horrible information from you?"
"I'm not oblivious to my husband's feelings, mom," Olivia says as she snatches the whistling tea kettle from the stove. She does not want the sound to wake the babies. Gwendolyn sighs softly.
"Livvia — Fitzgerald's whole identity — what it means to be a man — a husband — a father — was shaped by Gerry Grant. All of that came crashing down around him when he learned that the man he idolized more than anyone was involved — to whatever degree — with the person who tried to murder his family. The hurt. The shame. The disappointment. I can't imagine." Gwendolyn says, shaking her head from side to side.
"We're supposed to discuss these things, mom. For months he's walked around here like a paragon of virtue and said nothing."
"You can be headstrong, Livvia. I guess you get that from me," Gwendolyn chuckles softly as she smiles at her sleeping grandbabies. "Early in our marriage your father couldn't tell me anything. I was an independent woman when I met him. I had already graduated from college — was working at a job I loved — and had my own apartment. I didn't need him for anything and I didn't hesitate to let him know it — even after we were married. Well — that attitude nearly destroyed our marriage."
Olivia stares at her mother with furrowed brow.
"Your father and I separated for a few months when you were about two — a little younger than Jolie."
Olivia's eyes widen. "I had no idea," she says with surprise, slowly setting the mug of tea on the island top.
"Children aren't supposed to know the intricacies of their parents' marriage, Livvia. For years I watched my mother control my father and I carried that same bad habit into my marriage. Your father gave me a choice — either we work together as a team or we go our separate ways. Your father is no push over, Livvia. I wanted a different kind of marriage than my parents had — so I knew I needed to change. Marriage can be a wonderful partnership — but there is only one man and one woman in your marriage, Livvia."
Olivia opens her mouth to protest, but Gwendolyn cuts her off.
"Men need to be protected — too, Livvia - but in a different way. It's not a sign of weakness."
Olivia stares at her mother intently.
"To love and work at love is heroic, Livvia.Fitzgerald did what he thought was best for his family. You don't have to agree with it — but you shouldn't punish him for it either. Don't punish your husband for doing what comes natural to him. Love him like a woman — don't scold him like he's a child. Use your womanly tools to strengthen him. Be his soft place to land when the world is coming down hard on him."
XXX
Epiphanies are like a tsunami, waves suddenly washing over you and changing the landscape forever. Talking with Abby and her mother, Olivia realized that she needs to make some changes in how she views her marriage. Abby is right, she and Ben cannot be friends like when they were teenagers. Fitz deserves better. And, though she was initially frustrated by her mother's advice, she realized that Gwendolyn Pope was right. When Fitz is stressed and uncertain, he does not need her strength as a feminist. He knows she is capable of providing for herself and their children. He needs a different kind of strength from her. He needs her to be the place where he goes to let his stress dissipate.
Fitz has been staring at the laptop screen since dinner ended a few hours ago. He retreated to the study when Gwendolyn and Calvin insisted on helping Olivia to prepare the children for bed. He and Dylan will have their father-son talk later. The quick, soft knock on the door snatches his focus away from the screen. With brow furrowed, he watches his wife enter the study balancing a small silver tray on the palm of her left hand like a waiter. She looks beautiful.
Careful not to spill the cocktail she learned how to make just fifteen minutes ago; Olivia holds his gaze as she silently walks toward the desk. He slyly closes whatever he was looking at on the laptop.
Pushing the papers aside, she sets the tray onto the desk, then sits down on his lap. He instinctively encircles her waist with his arms and inhales her hair. He is tempted to kiss her but decides otherwise for now.
"Hi."
"Hi," he replies. "You saw James today. Your hair looks nice."
"You're just noticing?"
"I noticed when you got home. I notice everything about you. James is using a different shampoo."
"He is."
"I came home early today. You weren't here. I wanted us to talk. We haven't been doing much of that lately," twirling her curled tresses between his thumb and index finger
"I know," she says.
"You're still angry with me."
"I am," rubbing her thumb over his wedding band.
"I won't apologize for not telling you, Liv. Hindsight notwithstanding— I'd do it again."
"I know. Sometimes telling does more harm," she says softly. "I just don't want you to think that I'm weak."
"I don't. You're not."
She turns away her head, holding back the tears.
"Livvie — look at me. Look at me. You're strong. You're determined. You're bold. I've always loved those parts of you. They're a turn on actually," he says, smiling impishly. "But— I wasn't going to let Charlie and my father's actions upset you — cause harm to our unborn children."
"I understand."
"You haven't kissed me in a while. Kiss me."
She twists around on his lap and pecks him on the lips.
"Now kiss me like you mean it," holding her face between his hands. Her tongue explores his mouth and he moans. "You stopped talking to me. You can't do that."
"I know. I was so angry with you. I didn't want to say something I'd regret later."
He pulls her close and they sit in silence for a long while listening to the classical notes of Chopin flowing through the Bose speakers.
"I moved back to Church Falls to find you, Liv — to marry you — and have lots of children."
"You've certainly done both," she says, softly chuckling.
"I thought my childhood was idyllic. I remembered thinking I had the perfect family and I lived in the best place in the world. I wanted our children to have that same feeling. But it was all a lie — an illusion. I longed for a past that never really existed."
"Babe — through the eyes of a child — your family was perfect. Our parents allow us to see what they want us to see. It's what you now know that cause you to question everything."
"Things started unraveling shortly after I returned home. I learned that my little brother and I were in love with the same woman. Still are — actually."
She looks up at him with wide eyes.
"Ben and I have always been friends, Fitz. Nothing more," she says firmly.
"That hasn't stopped my little brother from wanting you."
"I never encouraged — "
"I know," pulling her back to his chest and pressing a kiss to the top of her head.
"Learning that my mother was unhappy for all these years. And Nora …" He shakes his head in despair. "Now this business with my father ... I'm not sure who I am anymore," he says with sadness in his voice.
"Babe — don't say that" bringing his hand to her lips.
"I'm tired, Liv. This place … my father … the politics ... I feel like I'm being pulled down in quicksand and I can't get out. The more I struggle the faster I sink. The whole goddamn thing has become untenable."
"What do you need, babe?"
"I'm not interested in being a hero. I don't want to fight for a system where politicians are easily and willingly compromised. Fragile institutions bend toward the greatest dysfunction."
"What about Darius?"
"Darius doesn't have any power — not real power to negotiate a deal. I'm going to meet with my father. Hopefully — we can come to an agreement."
"Listen to me. I won't let you jeopardize your freedom — your reputation — and everything you built because people want to twist what we did for their political gain. We did the right thing. We did what was best for Asha. Give them what they want and let's move on."
He stares at her with complete adoration. He could not love her more if he tried.
"You're a badass," he says, tenderly caressing her cheek.
"They don't push us around. Now, Mister — show me the houses you've been looking at. We have a new life to start."
He smiles, reaches around her, and clicks the mouse to display the houses.
"Joan sent over three."
"They're big, Fitz."
"We have a big family," he says, clicking on the picture of the first house.
"Start the video, babe — I want to see the floor plan," she says, leaning forward to closely examine the house. "What about the schools?"
"The neighborhoods all have excellent public schools. We can do private if necessary."
"Demographics?"
"Joan knows our requirements. She worked with a local realtor. She selected well."
Olivia slowly nods her head and he clicks on the second house.
"We'll have to find a new church family," she says, carefully watching the video of the second house.
"There's a Baptist Church just a few miles away," gently nibbling on her ear.
Olivia nods again.
"I've never not worked, Fitz. As much as I love being your wife and a mother — I also love working. I don't want to lose myself."
"You won't," gliding the tip of his tongue down the side of her neck.
"All of my connections are here. I'll be starting over."
"You'll make new connections."
"How? Wherever we go there'll be established organizations. I don't want to step on any toes. I've been there before."
"We'll figure it out."
"I don't want to raise our children alone, Fitz. You can't travel like before. Promise me."
"I promise. I'll work a few days in the city then work from home the rest of the time," gently caressing her lactating breast through the silk blouse.
"Babe — I'm trying to concentrate."
"So am I," sliding his hand inside her bra.
"I want Cee to finish the school year here. It's no fun starting a new school in the middle of the year. She'll be the new kid."
"Cee will be fine," he says close to her ear as he fondles the leaking nipple. He wants to suck it.
"We'll have to pack up and sell this house. Oh god — we have to hire a new housekeeper. I'm sure there are a million other things that I'm not thinking of right now."
"Mm-hmm," slipping his hand inside the front of her pants.
"Babe — we can't. Not yet," trying to pry his hand away.
"I know. I miss you so much," he mutters softly.
"A few more weeks."
He sighs and reluctantly withdraws his hand from her pants.
"How about we go to Connecticut next weekend to look at the houses? Joan said they won't be around for long in this market."
"I'll have to pump a lot of milk for Daisy and Dylan. Mom and dad are going to have their hands full watching four children."
"Jeffries will help and I'll ask my mother to come over and pitch in."
Olivia slowly nods her head, still thinking about everything that needs to be done before they move.
"You get to pick this time."
"What do you mean?" Looking over her shoulder at him.
"Ten years ago I did a stupid— stupid thing. I bought this house without letting you see it first."
"It's a good house, Fitz."
"It is — but this time I want you to select the house that you like."
"Which one do you like?"
"Number two. The views are magnificent. It has a pool and a tennis court. The children will love the pool and we can teach them how to play tennis."
"Babe — I haven't played tennis in ages."
"I love you so much," he says softly, kissing her neck again.
"Now — show me what you were really watching when I came in."
He gives her that crooked smile then clicks on the video he minimized when she came into the study. She looks up at him with an expression of surprise.
"Babe — you were watching our wedding video. I haven't watched it in forever."
"That was the best day of my life … the start of a new life."
"That was before everything … when it was just us."
"Wherever we are we'll be us. Nothing and no one will ever come between us."
"Do you think I love you … I mean really love you?"
"I never take your love for granted," he says, smiling at the unintended pun.
"I'm always told how much you love me — but no one ever mentions my love for you. It's not all one way you know. Even when I'm incredibly angry with you — I love you more than anything. Never doubt it."
"Not for one minute," he says, pressing his lips to hers. Olivia lifts the sweating hurricane glass from the silver tray and brings it to his lips.
"Sip, babe."
"What's that?" He asks, skeptically eyeing the colorful drink.
"A cocktail."
"You're a mixologist now?" He asks playfully.
"For tonight — yes. Now sip." He frowns when the sugar-y concoction hits his tongue.
"I prefer Scotch."
"It's called Sex on the Beach, babe."
XXX
Fitz decided to wear a navy-blue suit, white shirt, and red tie to his meeting with his father this morning. The meeting is not a friendly father-son visit where they will sit around sipping Scotch and discussing the latest wrestling matches. His goal is to negotiate a deal that will make it easier for him to leave behind his current life and move forward to another way of living with Olivia and the children.
Olivia has been anxious all morning about Fitz' meeting with his father. She does not like that Gerry has put her husband in a difficult position. Wanting him to have every advantage, she suggested he wear the burgundy-colored tie with the tiny white dots instead of the red tie. She said burgundy is a softer shade of red that also conveys strength and authority, but in a less aggressive way.
Staring in the mirror adjusting the burgundy-colored tie, Fitz shakes his head as Olivia fastens one of his "lucky" cufflinks to the shirt cuff. Years ago she bought the bespoke jewelry as a birthday present and since then they have become a talisman of sorts. Hardly a superstitious man, but over time, he started to realize that he successfully closed critical business deals whenever he wore the gold accessory.
"Call me right away — after the meeting is over. I want to know everything your father says."
"Kiss me, woman," Fitz says with a smile as he grabs her around the waist.
XXX
Carrying a black leather portfolio, Fitz follows his father up the hallway and into the family room. He quickly scans the room that holds a lifetime of deeply cherished memories and is immediately filled with nostalgia. He glances over at the fireplace mantle that is lined with photographs that capture a lifetime of family events: birthday parties, family vacations, game nights, and holidays. He stares at the photograph of him, Bennie, and John standing with their father who is proudly holding up a large bass he just caught. Fitz wonders who snapped the picture as he sits on the sofa across from his father. Both men cross their legs at the same time.
"Where's mom?"
"She's out shopping again. She's buying more things for the twins. I swear she's going to put me in the poor house the way she keeps buying for those babies."
"Thank you for taking my meeting," Fitz says formally, ignoring his father's comments.
"Are you wearing a wire?" Gerry grumbles.
"What?"
"Are you recording this conversation?"
"Of course not. Do you want to check?" Fitz asks, beginning to unbutton the white shirt. Gerry scowls at his son and dismissively waves his hand in the air.
"Why are you here, Fitzgerald?"
Fitz opens the portfolio and hands his father a copy of the report that details the recommendations for improving the local school system.
"What is this?" Gerry asks, staring at the dense document.
"The latest report on what it will take to help fix the school system."
"Why are you giving it to me?"
"This city has created generations of poorly educated citizens who have raised poorly educated children. Eighteen percent of the city's population lives in poverty. The School District ranks thirty-fifth nationwide in the share of education funding that comes from the state coffers. That leaves the local School District to raise a substantial amount of money on its own. Poorer districts with less taxable wealth come out behind."
Perplexed by Fitz' presentation, Gerry stares at his son waiting for more information.
"I want you to agree to help fund the city's School District."
"Why the hell would I do that? I'm not in the education business," Gerry says, flinging the thick report onto the coffee table.
"Without an educated citizenry — all of your plans to revitalize the city will die on the vine. Under-education leads to poverty. Poverty breeds crime. Crime will send businesses running to the surrounding suburbs or out of state. The city will be unlivable. The kinds of people you want to attract won't want to live there. The police department won't be able to handle the surge in crime."
"Wasn't Olivia working with Bryson on something like that?" Gerry asks with a devious look in his eyes.
"That was different and you know it," Fitz says, trying to maintain his composure. His father knows how to get under his skin.
"What do you want, Fitzgerald?"
"One hundred million dollars. Donate $100 million to the School District over the next ten years to help build new schools — provide students with the academic — technological —and social skills needed to become productive and contributing citizens."
"That's a lot of money. Isn't staying out of jail enough for you?" Gerry scoffs like a man who knows he has the upper hand.
"You have an opportunity to do something good for the city that you and your business partners have exploited for decades."
"I don't like the way you're talking to me."
"I didn't say it to please you."
"Don't choke on that bone of righteousness, son. You go to your church and I'll go to mine. Everybody walked away with something in those deals. Isn't that what negotiations are all about?"
Gerry leans back in the well-worn leather chair, steepling his fingers as he stares at his namesake for a long while. Fitz knows the posture well; he has used it many times during negotiations when he knew he had the advantaged position. It signaled to the opposing party that they were not going to get what they wanted. He knows he needs to try another approach.
"Despite everything— I believe deep down you still have the capacity to do good."
"Pfft. Now you want to appeal to my moral character?" Gerry chuckles mirthlessly.
"I guess I do," Fitz says sincerely. "What kind of legacy do you want to leave your grandchildren? How do you want them to remember their grandfather? Do you want them to remember you as the doting grandfather who hand-carved heirloom rockersfor their birthdays and played with them on the floor? Or — do you want them to lower their heads in shame when their friends speak of you?"
"Do you know why a father wants a son — especially if he already has a daughter?" Gerry asks, staring into the eyes he shares with his son. The question is rhetorical of course. "A father has hopes and dreams for his son. He wants to teach him things — teach him how to be a man. He wants to make him a representation of himself. You cannot do that with daughters."
"I love and treat all of my children equally," Fitz says, bouncing his crossed leg.
"A true politician. Always saying the politically correct thing. Girls grow up — get married — and take on some other man's name - or hyphenate their name or do whatever. But a son — a son carries the family name forever. They carry on the family traditions."
"Some traditions should be left in the past."
"Our customs are ingrained in us, son. Family is everything."
Fitz scoffs. "Family is everything? Really, dad?" His father has reopened the wound.
"Always has been. You know that son."
"You tried to sabotage my political campaign. You were in league with the man who tried to kill my family."
"I told you — I had nothing to do with that."
"Now you've enlisted a man — who has personal animus for me — to ruin me professionally and personally."
"I needed to get your attention. The councilman is an overly ambitious wannabe. He's intemperate. I could never trust a man like that."
"You trust him enough to give him incriminating information about me."
"The councilman is of no consequence to you."
Fitz expels a heavy sigh. He does not want to fight with his father again. He is here for one reason. He clears his throat and touches the right cufflink.
"Do we have a deal?"
"I want to see my grandchildren, Fitzgerald. I want to see the twins. It's my right."
"I'm not using my children as bargaining chips. Do we have a deal or not?" Fitz says through clenched teeth.
"What's in it for you? What do you get out of this proposed deal?"
"Me? Nothing. I'll resign as Council President — turn over the police department to you — and endorse Darius Moton for mayor. You'll own the city. You'll have what you've always wanted."
"I'll need time to discuss your proposal with my business partners."
"Bullshit. We both know who calls the shots. I need your answer now."
Gerry smirks.
"You're smart, Fitzgerald. Cunning. You can be ruthless … not afraid to color outside of the lines when necessary. I've always liked that about you. Join me, son — and together we can expand the empire. We can change the world."
"You're insane."
"John and Bennie can't do it. They don't have what it takes. Let's put all of this nonsense behind us. Stand with me and I'll make you governor of this state. Hell — in time — I'll make you a real President."
"You have Councilman Moton — you don't need me."
"What we're doing is bigger than local politics. Besides — the councilman isn't family."
"Goodbye, Gerry," Fitz says, standing from the sofa and preparing to leave. He can no longer tolerate his father's disingenuous speeches about family and tradition.
"Fine. I'll fund your little project. It may benefit our investors over time. Fifty percent up front — the rest goes into a trust that will only be paid out if certain performance conditions are met. I'm not interested in pissing away that kind of money."
Fitz nods his head; he knows that getting something is always better than walking away from the table without anything.
"I don't want the money put into one of your trusts where no one ever benefits from it. It goes into a separate account that's managed by trustees we both nominate and appoint."
Gerry nods his head in agreement.
"Thank you," Fitz says, turning to leave.
"I hear you're moving your family to Connecticut."
"I am."
"You're opening an office in New York City — too?"
Fitz stares at his father, realizing the man knows every move that he makes.
"Yes."
"It didn't have to be this way, son."
"You're right — it didn't. I'll draw up the contract and get it to you next week."
"There's no coming back after this," Gerry says solemnly.
"I know," Fitz replies. Before the tears can fall from his eyes, Fitz hurries from his childhood home for the last time.
XXX
Leaning back against the counter next to the refrigerator, Calvin holds a cup of coffee in his hand and frowns as he listens to his wife ooh and ahh at another online infant clothing site. He wonders how many more clothes she is going to buy for those babies.
"Fitzgerald left our early this morning," Calvin says trying to distract himself from thinking about all of the money his wife is spending.
"Fitz had a meeting this morning," Olivia says, not ready to reveal to her parents the nature of her husband's meeting.
"Livvia — there are so many beautiful baby clothes nowadays. Look at these pajamas. They're so cute. I want to buy them all."
"They are cute," Olivia says, looking over her mother's shoulder and smiling at the infant pajamas displayed on the tablet screen.
"Daisy and Dylan are going to look so precious in them."
"Didn't you just buy pajamas last week? How many pairs of pajamas do six-week-olds need?" Calvin says grumpily.
"Oh, Calvin — it's not about need — it's about how darling they're going to look in them." Calvin rolls his eyes.
"Mom — I have to show you the headband that Fitz bought for Daisy. It's navy blue and has a big bow with little gold anchors on it. It's so adorable."
"I'm sure it is," Gwendolyn says, adding a few more items to the online cart.
"Mom — dad — I have some exciting news."
"You're not pregnant again — are you?" Calvin grumbles.
"Calvin — you're being rude."
"That man wants to keep our daughter barefoot and pregnant. She needs to go back to work … have her own money."
"I do have my own money, dad. And I'm not pregnant. Sheesh," Olivia groans.
"Livvia — you don't have to explain anything to your father. I don't know what's wrong with him lately," Gwendolyn says, flashing her husband a disapproving look.
Calvin sucks his teeth in response.
"Tell us your news, baby," Gwendolyn says as she clicks the Place Order Button.
"We're moving to Connecticut," Olivia says with genuine excitement.
"Connecticut? Why on earth would anyone want to move to Connecticut?" Calvin says in an alarming tone.
"My goodness — that certainly is a surprise," Gwendolyn says, also taken aback by the unexpected news.
"Fitz is resigning as Council President."
"Resigning — why is Fitzgerald resigning from city government? Has he been caught taking bribes?" Calvin asks indelicately.
"Dad. Of course not. Fitz is just ready to return to his business."
"Of all the places you could go — why Connecticut?" Calvin asks, slowly walking over to the island where his wife is preparing to place another order.
"Fitz is opening a Grant Consulting office in New York City. Connecticut is only forty-five minutes away from New York by train. We're going to look at houses next weekend. I hope you and mom don't mind watching the children."
"Of course we don't. This is exciting news, Livvia. Change is good."
"Thanks, mom."
"Houses are expensive, Livvia. Don't you watch the news? House prices are skyrocketing. It's not cheap to live in Connecticut," Calvin says in a warning tone.
"Don't pay your father any mind. Comelook at this, Livvia. Isn't it the cutest? Cena is going to love this dress."
"Cute? You want to spend an arm and a leg on cute? Money doesn't grow on trees, Gwendolyn."
"Calvin!"
"It is cute. I'll order it, mom."
"No, Livvia. I want to spoil my grandbabies. Do you have a problem with that, Calvin?"
"I'm just saying we have to be careful how we spend our savings."
"We have more than enough money. We worked all those years to build our nest egg and I want to spend some of it on our grandchildren."
"You've been spending frivolously — like a drunken sailor — ever since we got here."
"It's my money — too — and I can spend it however I want," Gwendolyn says, turning her attention back to the screen.
"There isn't any money. It's gone. We can't afford to pay for large credit card bills."
Gwendolyn and Olivia's mouths fall open and their eyes grow wide.
"Calvin — what are you saying?" Gwendolyn asks, bringing a hand to her chest.
"I'm sorry, Gwennie. Most of our savings isgone."
Gwendolyn gasps and slowly sets the tablet on the island granite top. Calvin nervously rubs his head as he paces around the kitchen.
"We have a little left. We just don't have as much as we once had. We need to be careful."
"What happened, dad?" Olivia asks, running a soothing hand over her mother's back.
"I was foolish. I'm an old — foolish man."
"Dad — what happened?"
"I received a phone call — several phone calls — from someone claiming to be from the IRS. They said I underpaid our federal taxes. I thought since we were living in Senegal I incorrectly prepared our federal tax return. I've always been precise in preparing our taxes," he says, shaking his fist in anger. "To prevent accruing more interest and penalties I sent them several payments — but they just kept demanding more and more. After a while I realized it was all a scam and I stopped answering their calls."
"Dad …" Olivia says sympathetically, tears streaming down her face.
"Now. Now. We won't have any of that," Calvin says, brushing the tears from his daughter's cheek. "Your mother and I are going to be fine. Everything is going to be all right."
"Calvin — you didn't tell me."
"I didn't want to worry you, Gwennie. I didn't want you to think me the fool."
"Oh — Calvin," Gwendolyn says, standing to hug her husband. "You've been dealing with this all alone."
"I'm fine, Gwennie," Calvin says, softly patting his wife's back.
"I can help," Olivia says, watching her parents comfort each other.
"I won't take money from my daughter. You and Fitzgerald are not responsible — "
"I told you — I have my own money. You're my parents and I won't let you struggle."
"We're not taking money from our daughter," Calvin says adamantly.
XXX
Fitz scrolls through the American Airlines website trying to find a direct flight from Seattle to Connecticut, but there are none, of course. They will either have to fly from Seattle to Charlotte or to Detroit, each has a one-hour layover with a connecting flight to Hartford, Connecticut.
"Would you rather layover in Detroit or Charlotte?"
"It doesn't matter," she says, tossing the jar of cream onto her nightstand, causing her watch and amethyst stone to fall to the floor. Fitz looks over at his wife wondering what is wrong.
"Liv?"
"I learned why my father booked their flight from Senegal on that awful airline."
"Oh?" Looking at her with raised brow.
"My father was scammed out of most of their savings. He's been trying to save money."
"What?!"
"I am so angry that he was taken advantage of."
"What happened?" Fitz says, setting the tablet down on his lap.
"Someone claiming to be from the IRS called him. The IRS says all the time they don't call … they don't text or email. They only send mail."
"My God."
"I guess he got scared and started sending them money. Mom knew nothing about it. He kept it from her all of this time. I have to help them, Fitz."
"Of course."
"They won't take money. They're too proud for that."
"What do you suggest? How can we help?"
"Would you be okay if they moved to Connecticut with us?"
"Of course. But do you think they'll want to give up their work in Senegal?"
"They're getting older, babe. My father would never have fallen for a scam like that in the past. My mother is taking several different medications — for what — I don't know. They're too vulnerable."
"You can't force them to move with us."
"I know. But I can incentivize them."
"What do you mean?"
"I'll tell them that we're going to need their help with the children. With you working in New York City a few days a week and my going back to work eventually — we'll need their help. They'll like that."
Fitz nods his head.
"We'll do whatever you want," pulling her close to his side.
"I hate to think of my parents getting old, babe," Olivia says sadly.
XXX
Sleeves rolled up to his forearms, Fitz hunches over the desk and expels another heavy sigh. For the past few days he has dedicated an inordinate amount of time to writing and editing the contract. He cannot risk his father's lawyers finding a reason to breach the agreement.
Quietly entering the office, Mrs. Handley carefully sets the coffee service on the table and turns to leave as quietly as she entered. She does not like to disturb the Council President when he is immersed in his work.
"Mrs. Handley, please send Councilwoman Chalmers in when she arrives."
"Yes, sir."
"And Mrs. Handley — if you're available — I would like to meet with you at three o' clock this afternoon."
"Of course. Do I need to prepare for anything in particular?"
"No," he says, flashing her a smile that immediately puts her at ease. Mrs. Handley nods and leaves the office so he can get back to work.
Another hour of rereading and rewriting the legal document has put a strain on Fitz' eyes. He tosses the ink pen onto the desk and forks his fingers through his hair. He needs to take a break. Reclining in the large black leather chair, he folds his hands behind his head and looks around the office. He will not miss the Second Empire-style furniture. He disliked the furniture from the first day he set foot into the office.
"Council President Grant, Councilwoman Chalmers has arrived," Mrs. Handley says, giving him a minute to button his shirt cuffs and put on his suit jacket.
"Thank you, Mrs. Handley," Fitz says as he adjusts his tie. Mrs. Handley smiles, then escorts the councilwoman into the office, and closes the door behind her.
"Councilwoman Chalmers — thank you for meeting with me this morning."
"It's always a pleasure, Council President Grant," the councilwoman says, accepting his hug before sitting down in one of the chairs that face the desk.
"May I get you something to drink? Tea? Coffee?" Fitz asks, walking over to the table where Mrs. Handley placed the fresh pot of coffee.
"No — thank you. I've had my quota for the morning."
Fitz nods as he refills his cup with the piping hot liquid.
"I apologize for taking so long to get back to you, Henri."
"Fitz — I must admit — it's getting more difficult to keep the hounds at bay. The Education Committee has been patient — but now …. They want to know if you're going to act on the recommendations in the report."
"I understand. Thank you for staving them off for all these months. I'm sure it's been difficult," sipping the coffee as he walks back to his desk.
"That's certainly an understatement. I'll tell the Committee the same thing I've told them for years. We won't be able to implement any of the recommendations at this time. We'll reconsider them in the next fiscal year."
"You won't need to do that. We'll be moving forward with the recommendations."
"We discussed this, Fitz. We don't have the money. A mid-year budget increase is not going to fly. The city is strapped for cash," she says, watching him sit down behind the massive desk.
"I've secured a financial commitment that will help us to improve the schools."
"A financial commitment? From whom? I wasn't aware of any discussions about additional funding."
"I secured a commitment from my father and a few of his business partners."
"Your father? What does Gerry Grant have to do with this?"
"Henri — my father and his partners have agreed to donate $100 million over the next ten years to help modernize our schools."
"One hundred million dollars. That's incredible. But why?"
"Let's just say they're highly motivated."
"While I'm thrilled to get this kind of donation, Fitz — a gift of this magnitude needs to be discussed with the school superintendent."
"Henri — the superintendent has been in his role for over ten years and he has not changed a thing."
"Let's be fair, Fitz — "
"He needs to step down, Henri. We need fresh leadership … fresh perspectives. The children of this city don't have time for us to worry about hurt feelings. They don't have time for the slow legislative process to determine if this donation is a good thing. This is happening, Henri — and I need you on board."
Henri stares at his determined expression and slowly nods her head in support.
"I'm on board. This is the largest private donation in the School District's history. The media is going to wonder — "
"The donors want to remain anonymous."
"This is highly unusual. The mayor — "
"Mayor Barksdale is well aware of the donation. He will make the official announcement once the contract is signed."
Henri nods her head again. She knows there is much more that Fitz is not telling her about the unprecedented donation.
"What about the other stakeholders: the School Board … parents … neighborhood organizations?"
"Do you really think any of those people will reject a $100 million gift?"
"Fitz — "
"The donors have agreed to give us fifty percent up front — the rest will go into a trust that will only be paid out if certain educational performance metrics are met."
"This is unbelievable. It's like manna from Heaven."
"I need to nominate a trustee and the donors will nominate one as well. If both sides agree with the nominations then the two trustees will be appointed to oversee the trust."
"I see. Do you have anyone in mind?"
"You."
"Me? I don't know anything about overseeing a trust."
"Henri — you're the only one I can trust to do this. I'm confident you can handle it. You'll make sure the money is properly spent. Just follow the recommendations in the report. Target the most vulnerable ZIP Codes."
"I appreciate the vote of confidence, Fitz — but why don't you do it? With your legal background you'd be perfect."
Fitz takes a sip of the coffee then sets the cup back onto the desk.
"I won't be here after March. I'm resigning as Council President and moving my family to Connecticut."
"What?! Resigning? Are you trying to give me a heart attack this morning? Why on earth are you resigning? And why the heck are you moving all the way across the country to Connecticut?"
"I'm going back to my business – Grant Consulting. I'm opening an office in New York City. If I'm to be honest, Henri — I miss my law practice. While I enjoy helping the people of this city — city government is too bureaucratic. It takes too long to accomplish anything. There are just too many special interest groups that need to be satisfied."
"I understand. This work can be very challenging at times. But — I'm happy for you, Fitz. As a new politician you've done a lot for this city."
"That's what public service is all about. Isn't it?"
"I'm going to miss seeing you around these halls. You're a good man, Fitz."
"Thank you, Henri. I'm going to miss you — too. Please keep this information confidential until the contract is signed and the mayor and I make a public statement."
"Of course. Of course. I'll take that drink now if you don't mind."
"Sure. Coffee? Tea?"
"No. After all of the good news you shared this morning I need a real drink. Pour me some of that Scotch you keep in your desk drawer."
XXX
Sitting behind the wheel of his car in the dimly lit underground garage, Darius waits for Gerry Grant to arrive. Once again he has been summoned for a late-night meeting. He had hoped to have good news for the man but Fitz is playing hardball. Darius believes that Fitz cannot hold out for much longer — the man has too much at stake. Darius smiles to himself thinking he cannot wait to see that smug, entitled look disappear from Fitz' face when they stand on the podium and Fitz endorses him for mayor.
The familiar black SUV slowly rolls into the garage and Darius quickly climbs from his car. He swiftly walks over to the idling SUV and climbs into the back seat. Gerry does not bother to acknowledge his presence.
"Fitz is not backing down," Darius begins. "I'll tighten the screws a bit more. He'll cave in sooner or later."
"Pull back on my son. That project is over," Gerry says, looking straight ahead.
"What the hell do you mean it's over?"
"You going after my son — it's done. The narrative has changed."
"Listen to me, old man — we had a deal. You don't get to back out just because you're feeling sentimental. I'll send that phony document to the media."
Gerry finally turns his head toward Darius and stares at the man with his cold, blue eyes. Darius shivers internally.
"Councilman— don't you ever threaten me or my family again. Destroy the document. Burn it. Shred it. It no longer exists. If by chance it ever becomes public — there won't be a place on God's green earth where you or your family can hide."
"This is bullshit. Why don't you get your precious son to do your dirty work?"
"A man like you would never understand a man like my son. He would never sell himself for so little. Good-bye, Mr. Mayor. I'll summon you when I need you."
With his arms dangling at his sides, Darius watches the black SUV drive from the garage. He no longer feels as confident of his position with Gerry Grant. He is an outsider — the help. He is not family. No matter how much they may fight and disagree, family is family.
*** Breaking News ***
Fitzgerald Grant announced his resignation as the President of City Council. Citing wanting to spend more time with his family, Grant's last day in office is March 31. Mayor Barksdale has selected Christopher Marin, head of the Chamber of Commerce, to complete the remainder of Grant's term. The mayor has set April 10 of next year as the date for the special election to elect the next President of City Council.
On a more positive note, anonymous donors have gifted the School District with a $100-million- gift to help improve our schools. More details to come.