Liv is in her bedroom. It's been a week since the party. A week since she's seen Fitz. A week of avoiding any conversation with Savannah about him. Fitz has been 'busy' all week where Savannah is concerned, and Liv is feeling guilty every time she comes to her about it. How can she tell her sister that? She's trying to figure out what offer she should go with, as far as law firms. At first this was going to be easy; she was taking the job in New York, but she would be lying to herself if she said she wanted to know. Now that she's reconnected with Fitz. She can't imagine leaving him again, even if they aren't together. There is a knock at the door.
"Come in," Liv says as she turns from her desk. Savannah walks in. "What's up Sis?" She says cautiously. She hopes it's not this conversation again.
"You think I came on too strong. I never should have gone to the club last week. I wish I had talked to you before I did it," Savannah says.
"We talked about this before, Fitz is a busy guy. I'm sure it has nothing to do with you," Liv says.
"I don't know why I am stressing like this. It's not like we are exclusive."
"Savannah, what if?" Liv starts and a text catches her eye. It immediately catches her attention. She sees who the sender is. "Savannah, I need to take this call."
"Okay! Well, I am pulling a double tonight, so I will see you in the morning. Love you," Savannah says kissing the top of her head as she leaves out.
Liv takes a moment to text the sender back, I'm available.
The sender responds, Calling now.
Liv stares at the photo. This is the last thing she needs right now. Then her phone rings. She doesn't need this right now. "Hi," she says, trying not to smile too wide.
"Hi," Fitz says. "I know I shouldn't be calling you, but I couldn't take it anymore. I wanted to give you some space," he explains.
"Did that also mean giving my sister some space?" Liv asks.
Fitz shakes her head, "I know. I know that was a dick move. But I didn't know what else to do. Everything was so easy a week ago and now its not. I gave what you said some thought. She deserves to know, no matter what happens with us, but I don't want to hurt her feelings."
"Fitz, her feelings are going to be hurt either way. But the longer we keep it from her, the more damage we will be doing. We need to tell her."
"And what happens after we tell her?" He asks.
"We act like adults and move on," Liv answers quickly. Not believing a word of what she says either.
"This will get easier Livvie. You must believe that" Fitz says.
"Easier," Liv laughs. "I have a meeting at a law firm. I need to go."
"Really, which law firm?" He asks. "I thought you picked one already."
"I picked Langston & Associates but there is another one that is trying to woo me. I haven't signed on the dotted line with Langston yet."
"Besides me, who is trying to woo you?" Fix says slyly.
"Vesper Barnes and Associates. I want to see what they have to say," Liv explains.
"Well, they'll love you as much as I do. They would be lucky to have you."
She can't help but blush, "You are just saying that."
"I am saying it because it is true. Go wow them! You'll have your pick of the litter," he smiles. He then stops, "I don't even know what kind of law you'll be practicing."
"Corporate Law…Bankruptcy Law I do find fascinating," she answers.
"Maybe I am just horny but that all sounds sexy to me. I want to see you in action," Fitz says.
"You are shameless. I must go Mr. Grant," she says shaking her head.
"Before you go, I have a question," Fitz says.
"What's the question?"
"What do you remember about our night together?" He asks.
Liv shakes her head, as if she can't believe he's asking the question. "Why?"
"Just answer the question," Fitz counters.
"I remember everything about our night together. Are you happy?"
"No," he responds.
"What?"
"Because you won't let yourself not feel guilty about it. Because of your sister, you feel guilty, and you want to forget. But Liv, we never cheated on your sister. I met my soulmate that night. I made love to her and then I lost her. By some twist of fate, she's in my grasp again and I'm going to hold on for dear life because it meant something to me."
"You think you don't mean anything to me. That night meant everything to me too. The way you held me. The way you touched me. There's been two men since you and no one has ever made me feel the way you did. And each time, I hated it because it wasn't you and I wanted it to be you," she says almost out of breath. She said it so fast, she almost missed it. "I'm more afraid of what I feel for you than my sister or anything else. You scare me." She feels like a big weight has been lifted off her shoulder. She's been wanting to say it for so long.
"Livvie," he says softly. He knows how hard it is for her to say what she's been feeling. "Don't' think for a second, I am not scared. I am scared too. I had a one-night stand when my future. How's that for irony? I knew the moment we kissed that you were the one and I had no intention of it being a one-time thing, but you ran away from it, from us."
Liv is silent. She knows he is right. "I didn't know what else to do."
"You should have trusted your gut and what you felt," he answers.
"My gut is never wrong," she replies.
"Then trust what it is telling you," He adds.
"What is it telling you?" Fitz asks.
"It's telling me that I shouldn't be afraid of you. I should take the plunge," she answers. Fitz's smile is wider so wide it is meeting his ears. She chuckles.
"What?" He asks.
"You are smiling so hard right now that your face should be hurting," Liv says.
"Guilty," Fitz says. "First things first," Fitz continues.
"What is that?'
"We tell your sister and then we go from there," Fitz says.
"We tell her together," Liv answers.
"Everything we do from here on in, we do it together. Promise me that," Fitz says.
"I promise you. I won't make a move without you," she smiles now. Her smile is reaching her ears now.
"We are in this together and we will be together," Fitz says.
"You will stalk me if we don't. I might as well give in now," Liv says.
"I knew you were beauty and brains and…"
"Whatever you are about to say, don't say it," Liv stops him.
"I have to go. I have a meeting. How about we have dinner at my place tonight. Talk some more," Fitz says.
"Talking is all we are going to do, okay!"
"Okay!" Fitz says quickly.
"Hang up," she says.
"You hang up first," he answers.
"You hang up first," she laughs.
"Are we really doing this?"
"I'm hanging up," she laughs again which sounds like angels to him. She hangs up and holds the phone close to her. Her phone vibrates and she looks to see a text from him, You hung up first. She laughs as she gets up to get dressed.
Liv is sitting there tearing a piece of paper into strips. It is a habit she picked up when she is nervous and sometimes, she does it without even thinking. There is so much going on in her head. She needs her two musketeers to throw her thoughts around. Abby arrives first, sitting down, out of breath.
"Did you run?" Liv asks.
"I did. I thought I was late, but I see G Smooth is late, as usual," Abby answers trying to catch her breath.
"He text me saying he was 10 minutes away," Liv says as she is tearing a new sheet of paper.
"Oh boy, tearing paper. This must be serious," Abby says, looking at he strips that lay in front of Liv.
Liv looks down at the pile of little strips. She shakes her head, "I am an environmental nightmare. Why couldn't I have a normal nervous habit like…."
"Drinking," Abby jokes.
Liv looks down at the pile, "Then I'd be an alcoholic." Abby looks at the pile and they both laugh.
"You two slept together," Abby guesses.
"Who?" Liv says, snapping her head around.
"You and tall, creamy and handsome," Abby answers.
Liv stretches her eyes, "I can't believe you are calling him that."
"Is it untrue?"
Liv immediately blushes, "No it's not untrue and no we did not sleep together."
The waiter comes over asking if Abby wants a drink. She orders. "I am surprised. The eye fucking game was strong."
"Shut up," Liv says.
"It was hard to miss," Abby informs her.
Liv is immediately frustrated by it all. She is about to answer when Harrison comes rushing in, "I'm sorry I'm late. I had an interview this morning and they offered me the job on the spot."
The ladies are so happy for him. "Harrison that's awesome!" Liv says.
"So, you will be the CPA extraordinaire," Abby says.
"Looks like," he says looking at the iced tea and sparkling water on the table. "We are celebrating, why are we drinking weak ass drinks?" He then looks over at the little strips of paper. "Oh shit! What is wrong? Did you sleep with your boy?"
Liv throws one of the strips over at him, "No, we did not sleep together."
Harrison is then confused, "But you wish you had so you are feeding your habit because you didn't."
"No, that's why I needed to talk to you."
"Wait!" Abby interrupts. "What about your meeting this morning? Didn't you just come from that?"
"I did and they want me bad. I have a decision to make. They are offering a good package. I don't know. I have a week to decide. But this thing with Fitz and Savannah is much more pressing."
"Let me order an alcoholic beverage so we can hash this out," Harrison says as he raises his hand for the waiter.
Liv just spits it out, "We've decided to tell Savannah." Harrison and Abby just look on. "Okay, so…what do you all think?"
"I think that is the best idea," Abby says.
"Me too! V is going to feel like you all lied to her or something if you drag this out. You might as well bite the bullet. Just tell her," Harrison adds.
"I know. I know that I am overthinking this too much. It's not like they are engaged. And Fitz said he cannot fake it. He said he can't continue to see her, and he can't pretend around me. He thinks and I think we should just be truthful," Liv explains.
"And he is right. And the way he was eye-fucking you at the party. He is not a very good actor. He was like tiger waiting to pounce. If only Eddy knew what was going on," Harrison notes.
"Eddy thinks he's going to get you back," Abby says as she points at what she wants to order.
"Edison knows that we can't date again," Liv says.
"Was he that bad in bed?" Abby asks.
"It had nothing to do with his bed skills," Liv laughs.
"But he's not the Caucasian Stallion," Harrison says.
Liv shakes her head, "Did you two get together and come up with names for Fitz?"
"You didn't deny it," Harrison shrugs.
"That is not the point," Liv points at Harrison.
"It is a very good point. Good dick game is important. It can make or break a relationship," Abby says.
"I just did not feel good about being with Edison. Not because he was a bad. He was not. And yes, he is no Fitz but being the intern and sleeping with one of the Associates. I just did not feel right. And then, he says the firm wants to offer me a job. I just felt whorish, and I did not want that. And then I don't take the job, but I am now on Edison's arm. People will figure it out," Liv explains.
"I get it. I get," Abby concedes.
"Yeah, you would have felt like you didn't earn the job the right way," Harrison says.
"Yes, that is why I broke it off. He was a good guy and I hated to do that. I never should have started the relationship in the first place but now that I look back on it, it was all about Fitz," Liv answers.
"What do you mean?" Abby says confused.
Liv takes bite of her food that has arrived, "I saw Fitz at the masquerade that evening. I had a date with Edison at that masquerade at the club so I could see Fitz. I never told Edison. But, when he offered to take me home, I didn't want to go. I was…"
"Hot all over for your boy and Edison got lucky," Harrison says.
"And it created a mess. My heart was never truly in it, but he was a good guy, at least," Liv explains.
"And you can't get rid of him," Abby says.
"I feel like I used him for sex, but I certainly didn't use him for the corporate ladder," Liv says with a big sigh.
Abby grabs her hand, "Liv don't worry about Edison. He is not a problem. You have a second chance with Fitz. I think Savannah will understand. Don't pass up on this guy because of family obligation. I know Savannah was there for you when your mom died but you have to live your life."
"Abby is right. Get your career at whatever law firm is smart enough to get you. And get your man. Plus, if you don't, you two are going to explode."
"Explode from what?" Liv asks.
"Explode from Sex Deprivation," Harrison answers with a laugh.
"We are not sex deprived," Liv defends.
Abby and Harrison look at each other as if they are unconvinced, "Okay, you both have had sex but not with the right people. So, I would say you are partner deprived," Abby clarifies.
"I can't deal with you two," Liv shakes her head.
Harrison points at her, "You can't handle the truth."
"Corny," Abby shakes her head as Liv laughs. They continue to have their lunch.
Fitz goes over to visit his mom, She's been having a tough time since Big Gerry died. They did not have the best marriage by any stretch of the imagination, but she loved him, in spite of. He never cheated on her, but he never treated her like an equal. She was his trophy wife and now she is trying to rediscover herself with the single life. Faye Grant was strawberry blonde that could have been a model. Fitz is a perfect mixture of both. She comes from money, old money, the kind that never comes. She didn't really need the Grant status, but she loved the man that stole her heart.
"My son has come to see me," Faye says as she hugs him.
"Mom, I see you every other day," Fitz says shaking his head. She always had a flare for dramatics. But he loved her just the same.
"I have to milk it for what its worth because your sister can't stop traveling the world long enough to visit me," Faye says as she sits down waiting for their tea to be served. The housekeeper, Gertie is more like family that she has been with them so long.
"Mom, Leslie is in medical school," Fitz reminds her.
"Who goes to medical school in Australia?" Faye asks as Gertie enters with the tea.
Fitz gets up, giving Gertie a kiss. "Hey Gertie!"
"You get more handsome every day. If only we had met in another life," she winks.
"Then you'd be a cougar," Fitz winks back.
"I might teach you a thing or two," she laughs as she turns to face his mother.
"Stop fussing about Leslie and drink your tea," she says to Faye. "Fitz you want something to eat or a real drink."
"No, I'm good Gertie," he laughs as Gertie walks back into the kitchen.
Faye rolls her eyes, "I swear I am going to fire her one day."
"No, you won't. You need her and you love her too much," Fitz says as he takes a seat. He watches his mom, carefully construct her cup of tea. "Mom, how are you really?"
"I want to buy something," Faye says.
"As in," Fitz shakes his head.
"I want to run a boutique. No one loves to shop more than me. Doing it for business would be great. I don't need the money of course but this house is so big and empty," she explains.
Fitz takes a moment, "Maybe this is a promising idea."
Faye is surprised, "I thought you would be against it."
"No mom. I know that Dad dying left you…. lost. If you think this will help you and you will enjoy it, then I am all for it. I will help you with it."
Faye smiles, "I love you, Fitzy."
"I know. First you need to find a building and we go from there. We can do some looking for buildings if you want."
"How about now?" She answers.
"Right now?"
"Can you get away for a few hours? You can take me to dinner, early dinner," she winks.
Fitz was really planning on seeing Liv tonight. They can have a late, rendezvous to talk, "Sure but just a couple of hours. I have to get back to the club tonight," he explains.
"Gertie, my handsome and too long eligible song is taking me out."
"Good that means I don't have to feed you tonight," she screams back.
"I'm going to dock her pay," Fay Huffs.
"No, you won't," Fitz smiles. "Bye Gertie! I will bring her back unless you don't want me to," he chuckles.
"I guess you can," she answers.
"Take you a break," Fitz laughs as he opens the door for his mother. They fight like cats and dogs but he's so glad Gertie is there with her. That is what she needs.
"Let's go," Faye says as they leave.
Liv is sitting in the kitchen. She is looking in the fridge as if willing food to her. She doesn't feel like cooking but she's trying to figure out when she is going to talk to Savannah. She knows she and Fitz need to do it together, but she feels like she should do it alone.
"Are you looking for something in there?" Eli asks.
Liv turns to see her dad there, "Actually I am not sure."
"How about I cook something for you?" Eli suggests.
"No dad. I have to go out later. I might eat there. I don't know."
"Are we going out on a date, preferably with Edison Davis?"
Liv shakes her head," No, I am not daddy. Edison and I are not a thing anymore," Liv responds.
"But why. He is a good young man. He is going places," Eli says. "I can't believe you didn't take the job," Eli continues.
"Dad, it just didn't feel right but we are friends," she tries to deflect.
"Oh, look what I walked in on, daddy trying to put you and Edison back together or is it, Jake Ballard. The annoying neighbor," Savannah says coming in. She reaches down, giving her dad a kiss.
"Edison," Liv answers.
"He's a good guy," Eli defends.
"Daddy," Liv says
"And don't even think about starting in on me about Fitz," Savannah says as she does the same thing Liv does. She stands, looking in the fridge.
Eli throws up his hands, "Fine! How about I take my girls out for dinner?" Savannah and Liv look at each other. They both nod in agreement.
"I am going to go take a quick shower and get dressed," Savannah says.
"Let's go in an hour," he says going up the stairs.
Liv grabs her phone, just now seeing a text from Fitz, Can we meet late tonight? Liv responds, I was going to text you the same thing. Sounds good. She hesitates to make her next text, but she decides too anyway. I am going to tell Savannah tonight. She might take it better coming from me. She figures he won't like that idea, but she waits for his reaction. Fitz finally responds, If you think its best. Liv figures Savannah would be more upset watching them tell her together. She goes upstairs and gets dressed. She knows telling Savannah means telling her dad. This is for the best.
Fitz and Faye are looking at the menu. Fitz took her to the downtown area to look at buildings. His friend Cyrus Beene is good at real estate. He quickly gave him some possibilities to look at. He knows his mother is impulsive. She will jump without looking. He knew she would need help with this. So, he vowed to do just that. He looks up from his menu to notice Olivia, Savannah, and Eli are walking in. What are the odds? He thinks.
"Thanks so much Fitzy for taking me today," Faye says, snapping him out of his hungry stare at Olivia. Faye snaps her finger, "Fitzy did you hear me?"
"I'm sorry mom. I thought I saw someone I knew. What did you say?" He says, looking in Liv's directions again.
"I said thanks for taking me today. I am really excited about this. I know I have a lot to do before I can open but I'm excited."
"That's good mom. I think you would be good at it. You know fashion. You know clothes and you know what women like to buy. I think it's a good idea," he smiles as he glances over at Liv again.
"You don't think I am crazy for trying to start a career this late in my life," she asks.
"I think you are as young as you feel. You can try it. If it doesn't work, it won't be a failure for you," Fitz encourages.
"And we certainly have the money," Faye says.
"Yes, we do," Fitz agrees. He picks up his phone and sends her a quick text.
"I can't believe that bastard left me," Faye says as she takes a sip of her wine.
Fitz just loves his mom's cringy candor, "Would that bastard be Dad?"
"Who else?" She says sarcastically.
"He left you in good hands," Fitz smiles, looking at his phone. He's waiting for her to respond.
"Who are you texting right now?" Faye asks. "Not that I mean to be nosy."
"Of course not," Fitz laughs, glancing at his phone again.
"Enough about your selfish father leaving me alone. What's going on with you and the young lady Olivia?"
"Nothing is going on with us yet. We are going to have to fix a little situation first, but I don't plan on letting her get away from me," he says as he sees her finally noticing his text. She tries to steal a glance to find him. But she's interrupted by the waiter.
"Well, I hope it works out. I have never seen you that starry eyed about a woman before," Faye says.
"I've never felt this way before," Fitz says with a slight hitch.
"I really thought Mellie was going to be the one. She seems so perfect at first and then she turned into hell on wheels," Faye rolls her eyes.
"Mom," Fitz scolds.
"She wanted your money," Faye adds.
"Well, she's not getting it," Fitz says.
Meanwhile, Liv looks at her phone again. She sends him a quick text that says, Where are you?
Fitz quickly responds, Enjoying the view from across the room.
Liv's face immediately becomes flushed, which her dad and Savannah both notice. Savannah clears her throat, "Is there something you want to tell us?"
"Yes, like who has your cheeks so rosy," Eli says.
"My cheeks aren't rosy," Liv says.
"Okay, we get it. You aren't ready to talk about this guy," Eli says.
"I want to talk about him. It's just very complicated," Liv explains.
"Well start at the beginning," Savannah pipes in. Just then, Fitz gets up to shake someone's hand and Savannah notices him. "Oh my God," she says.
"What?" Liv asks, looking around. She's hoping she didn't see Fitz.
"Fitz is here," Savannah says as Eli then looks in his direction.
"And where has he been. He hasn't been around since the party," Eli says.
Savannah starts to get up and then she sits down. "Should I go over and speak? He's been so busy with work lately or so he says."
"I don't know," Liv says scrunching her shoulders.
"There's a woman at the table with him. Sis, go with me," she says.
"If there is a woman at the table that's not you, then I'll go over there," Eli says as he starts to get up.
Liv doesn't want there to be a scene. She motions Eli to sit down. "I'll go with her. If he needs his ass kicked, we'll holler for you daddy." She takes a breath, not looking forward to this awkward moment. She doesn't have time to warn Fitz. They start to walk over to the table and Liv can feel herself starting to sweat. Fitz sees them approaching as he chokes on his water. He then turns pale. Faye notices his change in look. "You okay son."
"I'm okay mom." He stands up to greet the women, "Savannah…L…Olivia."
Savannah acknowledges him and looks over at the woman sitting next to him. She realizes it his mother. She talked to her many times during Gerry's stay there. Before she can say something, "Savannah, the wonderful nurse. It's good to see you."
"Nice to see you again Mrs. Grant," Savannah says. Now she feels stupid.
"It's lovely to see you again. I hope you have been well," She starts as she looks over at Olivia.
"I've been well. I never got a chance to thank you for the flowers that you sent. You didn't have to," Savannah says.
"You deserved them," she answers. Faye notices that Fitz and Liv are stealing glances at each other.
"After all you did for Pop. You deserved them," Fitz adds.
Liv is hoping they can just walk away but Savannah makes that impossible. "Where are my manners this is my sister Olivia."
"Good to see you again Olivia," Fitz says trying not to stare too long.
"Olivia," Fays says. "That's funny. Fitz and I were just about, the love he lost. Her name was Olivia," Faye continues. Olivia's face becomes stone as does Fitz's.
Savannah doesn't know how to react to it. Olivia recovers, "It's a famous name."
"Mom," Fitz steps in, "I'm sure they don't want to hear about the one that got away." He wants to say the love of his life, but things were already awkward enough.
"I'm interested," Savannah says.
"Maybe we should leave them to their dinner," Liv suggests. She can see Savannah's wheels turning.
"You are right," Savannah agrees. She looks over at Fitz, "Maybe we can catch up soon."
"Yes, that would be nice. How about lunch tomorrow?" Fitz says.
"You are a hard man to catch up with. That's for sure," Savannah answers. "Lunch sounds great."
"We've interrupted your dinner long enough. Nice to meet you Mrs. Grant. Good to see you Fitz," Liv adds.
"Olivia," Fitz says. Liv just nods. "See you tomorrow Savannah," he finishes.
"Good to meet you Olivia," Faye says. "So glad to see you again Savannah."
"You too Mrs. Grant," Savannah starts. "See you tomorrow," she says to Fitz as her and Olivia walk away.
Savannah and Liv return to the table. Savannah puts her face in her hands. "Did I make an ass of myself?"
"No, you didn't," Liv says quickly as she text Fitz. Sorry, I didn't have a chance to warn you.
"Well, no one requested my presence, so I am going to assume everything was okay," Eli says.
"It was his mother. She changed her hair. So, I didn't recognize her," Savannah says.
"Good. I like him. He seems like a decent guy. I didn't want to be angry with him," Eli says. He looks over at Olivia and notices her distance.
"Yes, he's still a decent guy," Savannah says.
"Olivia, are you okay?" Eli asks.
"I am fine," Liv says as Fitz responds, That's okay. Awkward but okay.
"Well let's have dessert," Eli says as they finish up their dinner. Savannah wants to know about this Olivia. Clearly, he was truly in love with her. Liv is hoping but she knows Savannah is going to obsess over it. Which makes this the perfect time to let the cat out of the bag.
Fitz and Faye make it home. Fitz has been quiet since Savannah and Olivia left the table. Faye has a keen eye for everything. She saw the glances and she saw the concerted effort they took to avoid eye contact and not be so obvious to Savannah.
Fitz just take a quick drink from the bar. Gertie comes downstairs. "You two are back."
"Yes! I had a lovely dinner with my son," Faye smiles.
"You are okay Fitzy. You look a little frazzled," Gertie notes.
Fitz takes a breath. "A lot on my mind."
"Dragon Lady, would you like a little nightcap?" Gertie directs to Faye.
"I think I will take one."
"I am going to get going," Fitz says. "See you later Gertie."
"Hold up," Faye says. Fitz has started for the door. She follows Fitz out. Fitz stops. He knows his mom figures out everything.
"Don't worry, I will call you tomorrow."
Faye looks him directly in the eyes. "Please tell me you haven't been dating both sisters."
Fitz tilts head. "Why would you ask that?"
"Fitz, I saw the way you and Olivia tried not to acknowledge each other. What's going on? Olivia is Olivia, isn't she?"
"How do you do that?" Fitz says shaking his head.
"It's a gift," she smiles.
"No mom. I am not dating them both. I accompanied Savannah to a party at her house for Olivia. She just said it was for her sister. She didn't give all those details. Anyway, the sister turned out to be Olivia," Fitz explains
"And Savannah doesn't know about you and Olivia?"
"I haven't seen her in 2 years. I haven't seen Olivia since that night. I was just as surprised to see her mom. Happy but surprised. We haven't had a chance to deal with it or tell Savannah," Fitz explains.
"How serious are things with Savannah?"
"They aren't. We haven't had what you call real dates. We haven't been intimate. Just hanging out," he answers.
"But she likes you a lot. I could see it in her face and Olivia is madly in love with you," Faye says.
"How can you tell?" Fitz says with hope in his eyes.
"You both stared into each other's soul," she answers. She touches his face. "What are you going to do?"
Fitz takes a breath. "Liv says she is going to tell her tonight. I guess we will go from there."
"Savannah is a lovely person. You two need to tell her as soon as possible so she doesn't feel like you all played her like a fool," Faye suggests.
"You are right. The last thing I want to do is hurt either one of them."
"Everything will be fine," she pats his face. "Now I am going to go have my nightcap. I have a business to start putting together, starting tomorrow."
Fitz gives her a kiss, "I love you mom and don't fire Gertie tonight or tomorrow."
"Whatever," she says as she goes inside. He shakes his head.
He gets in his car and leaves, and he sends Liv a text, Are you still doing it tonight? I am here if you need me.
Liv responds, I am. I think we have to.
Fitz knows this is going to be hard on her. He says to her, Meet me at the club after.
She just simply responds, Maybe!
He decides to give her space. He knows she needs to manage this her way. He decides to go to the club. What he doesn't know is that he will have eyes when he gets there.
One of Liv's favorite things about their family home is the gazebo in their impressive back yard. It brought so much joy to their mom in the end. She would sit out there after her treatments and enjoy the flower garden she fought so hard for. They've done their best to keep that flower garden going. Liv is sitting there looking at the night sky. Savannah looks thought he window and sees her sitting there. She goes out and join her.
"Money well spent," Savannah says.
Liv smiles, "Hiring a gardener for mom's flowers. I think so too."
"You know it didn't make sense to me why mom wanted a gazebo. I always associated with a princess. I guess, with everything she was going through, she needs to feel like a fairytale I guess."
"Yes, she would sit out here for hours and hours, but she loved it," Liv smiles at the memory. "It brought her peace. I didn't understand it then, but I understand it now."
"What's on your mind Peanut? You've been quiet since dinner. Is everything okay? I know I made a fool of myself acting like a jealous girlfriend. We aren't even exclusive, and I wanted to pull his mother's hair out. I hope I didn't embarrass you too," Savannah laughs.
"No, you didn't embarrass me. Not at all," Liv says nervously.
"I guess I should be jealous. He has a girlfriend name Olivia that he's obviously not over. We won't stand much of a chance if he's still hung up on her," Savannah says. Liv's whole face changes when she says that. The guilt is starting to build for Liv. Savannah can see she's upset about something. "Liv what's up?"
Liv turns to her. She takes a deep breath. "Remember two years ago I had that amazing one-night stand."
"Yes, the soulmate. The guy that was the one. What about him?" Savannah asks. She can see that Liv is nervous about something. "Oh my God. What happened? Did he give you an STD?" Savannah says quickly.
"And STD…no. That's not it," Liv answers quickly.
"Well, you have me all anxious. I don't know what to think."
"I found him," Liv says.
"You found him. What do you mean?"
"I know where he is. I've seen him and he's seen me," Liv furthers.
"Sis that's great! I mean you haven't gotten over him, so…this is great. Unless he's married with child now."
"No, he's not married with a child," she answers.
"Ugh does he have a serious girlfriend? Better question, did you two jump right back into bed?"
Liv truly doesn't know how to answer the first part of that question. "No, we didn't jump back into bed and as far as a girlfriend. I don't think…he's…." She doesn't think there is going to be a better way to say this. She decides to just blurt it out. "It's Fitz."
At first it washes over Savannah. She then realizes what Liv said, "What?"
"The guy is Fitz," Liv repeats.
Savannah gets up and walks to the banister of the gazebo and looks out. Liv doesn't know exactly what to say or what not to say. "You are the Olivia he never got over."
"I guess I am," Liv says trying to be careful.
Savannah turns around, "When I introduced you two at the party…"
Liv stops her, "That was the first time we saw each other since that night."
"You can be honest with me," Savannah says.
"I am being honest with you. I was shocked to see him, and he was just as shocked to see me."
"That's why he stopped calling me all of a sudden."
Liv now feels bad but like the weight of the world is off her shoulders now too. "I don't think he did it on purpose. We both wanted to do the right thing and tell you and he just didn't feel right seeing you or."
"Because he's in love with you," Savannah says. "So, I am sure he's going to break it to me gently tomorrow."
"I told him I wanted to talk to you first. I didn't want us to tell you together and it seem like an ambush," Liv says softly.
"Decision made then," Savannah says.
"What do you mean?"
"Clearly he's already made his decision," Savannah answers.
Liv goes to her sister's side, "I told him, for your sake, we need to not go back to this. You are my sister and I love you and the last thing I want to do is hurt your feelings. And Fitz doesn't want to hurt your feeling either. He really likes you."
"But he's in love with you," Savannah reminds her.
Liv can't deny it, "Yes he is."
Savannah takes a moment. She knows that she shouldn't be angry. She knows logically that Liv met him first. But it doesn't stop her from being upset. "I wish you two the best," she says as she leaves to go back in the house.
"Savannah," Liv says. She doesn't acknowledge her. Liv slouches back on the seat. Eli steps in the doorway to see what was going on. All he saw was Savannah go up to her room upset. Liv text Fitz, It went as well as to be expected. I need to see you tonight. I'll be there.
She's ready to get up and leave when she gets a phone call. "Hi Edison!" She says.
"I was thinking of going to a club tonight. Are you busy?" He asks.
"Ummmm," she starts. She knows she shouldn't lie. "I am just going to chill tonight. Maybe another night."
Edison is upset but he doesn't let on. "I'm disappointed but okay."
Fitz has responds to her text, Are you okay?
That's one of the things she noticed about him when they first met. He was compassionate, even though he was overconfident and self-assured. She simply responds, I'll be okay when I see you.
Eli makes his presence known, "everything okay," he says.
Liv jumps, "Daddy, I didn't know you were there."
"What's going on with Savannah?" He cuts to the chase.
"What do you mean?" She answers.
Eli gets closer, "I know when something is wrong. She was upset about something. And she was out here with you."
"She will be fine. Daddy, I really don't want to talk about it right now. It's complicated."
"My girls fighting is not okay," Eli answers.
"We aren't fighting daddy. I promise you that. It will be okay," she says, trying to convince herself. Even though she's not that convinced.
"I expect an explanation by morning," Eli says.
"I will give it to you. I am going to go out for a bit," she tells him.
"You told Edison you were staying in," Eli says. He sees the reaction. "I didn't raise you to lie."
"I've told him that our relationship is over. He keeps trying."
"What's so bad about that?" Eli asks.
This is the first time she says it out loud, "Because I am in love with someone else."
"What?" Eli says.
"I have to go daddy. We will talk about it tomorrow," Liv says as she leaves.
Liv makes it to the club. She doesn't know that eyes are on her and followed her from her house. She's sitting at the bar, having a cocktail when Fitz comes up behind her. He softly kisses her shoulder. It makes her shiver but in the best way.
"I was going crazy wanting to see you," Fitz says.
"Fitz, we need to talk," she says trying to get out of grip, even though she's loving every minute of it.
Fitz stops, "You are right. We need to talk. Let's go in the back."
She agrees as he takes her by the hand, and they go in the back. They are sitting together. They are playing with each other's fingers, just enjoying this moment. "She understood it. I think she was upset but she understood. I just think she will need some time."
"And that's understandable. I meant what I said. I am going to talk to her tomorrow. And I want her to understand that I wasn't stringing her along. I could have seen us in a relationship. She's a wonderful person. It obviously runs in the family."
"Very good," Liv looks up and smiles.
"But…," he lifts her chin, so they are eye to eye. "But she is not you. That night with you changed my life. I knew you were my future."
"I didn't believe in love at first sight but with you, it happened. It scared the hell out of me, but it happened," Liv smiles.
"It scared the hell out of me too. One-night stands are supposed to be just that. Not the night you met your soulmate." He just stares into her eyes and then plants a soft kiss on her lips.
"I want us to take this slow and not flaunt it in her face, not right now. She deserves time to process this," Liv explains.
"I agree!" Fitz then stops, looking at her, "I am all about taking it slow. Does that mean certain things are off the table."
"It depends." Liv winks at him.
"I would take you right here if I thought you'd let me, but I know you won't. So, how about we go outside and do a little dancing."
"I could go for that." Liv lifts herself from his chest. She stops, placing her hand on his chest. "Did you really tell your mom that I was the love of your life?"
"I sure did. I told her the next morning. She was mad that I did something so reckless, but she could tell you had stolen my heart and I didn't even know who you were."
"She knew I was Olivia, didn't she?"
"She sure did. She is very astute aside from being nosy. The CIA should have her on their team."
"Is everything really going to be, okay?" Liv asks. She needs the reassurance.
"Everything is going to be okay. I told you we are in this together." Fitz answers.
"Alright twinkle toes, let's good see if you learned some new moves." She gets up, fixing her dress.
"I have plenty. Some of which I cannot show you on the dance floor. That could get me arrested for indecent exposure." Fitz winks as they go out of the room to the dance floor.
They have a wonderful time dancing and Fitz makes sure they are close. Fitz just wanted to never let her go and then he chuckles softly into her neck. Liv looks up, "What's so funny?"
"The first night we met. We danced after I stole you from that guy. He had a weird name."
Liv laughs as she had forgotten that part about that night, "Cozi!"
"What kind of a jackass names themselves Cozi?" Fitz asks.
"I am so glad you stole me away," Liv smiles.
"So am I," Fitz says as he gives her another searing kiss.
Tom hates to interrupt them. He cautiously tapes Fitz's shoulder. Fitz turns to see Tom there. "This better be good."
"Yes sir! I think there's a problem in the kitchen. I think the chef just quit," Tom says.
"And on the night, I am here," Fitz shakes his head.
"Go check it out. I am going to go to the restroom and freshen up this face."
He kisses her again, "This face is perfect. I promise I won't be long."
He just makes her warm all over. She giggles as he walks away. She goes to the ladies room. She uses the bathroom and then freshens up her hair and makeup when she gets a text. She thinks it's Fitz. Instead, it's a text from Edison. She opens the text to see a photo of her and Edison in his office on his couch. She almost drops the phone in the running water.
Edison texts, I'm outside.
Liv rushes outside to see Edison standing at his car. She walks up to him, angrily, "What the hell is this?"
"I think you know what the hell it is. It's you and me doing some very naughty things on my couch. Which we moved to after my desk. Or did you forget?"
"I know what it is and what we did but I want to know why you have pictures," Liv says.
"Because I like to keep records of my achievements," Edison says cockily.
"You videotaped us," Liv says, shocked and disgusted.
"Why wouldn't I? After you rode me that first night. I knew you were a good screw, and I knew I had to have you," Edison explains.
"You are disgusting," Liv says as she gulps hard.
"I guess I am. I never said I was a boy scout."
"What do you want?" Liv asks. She knows he must want something.
"I want you. I've told you that."
"Edison, you know why we can't be together."
"I know that you are clearly screwing your sister's boyfriend behind her back. You like to live dangerously, and I like that about you. But I am not going to lose you to some white boy who doesn't know how to please you."
"That boy in there is a man who knows how to use what he has which is a lot more pleasing than what you have," Liv answers angrily.
He gets closer to her, "Would be a shame I send those pictures to Langston and Associates. You know, you bent over my desk taking me from behind and screaming my name and up the corporate ladder."
Tears start to fill in Liv's eyes. He's blackmailing her. "You wouldn't do that."
"Of course, I would. I play for keeps baby," Edison answers.
"You and me. That's all I want. You have until tomorrow to make up your mind," Edison says as he reaches down and gives her a kiss. He turns around and leaves. Liv is left there in tears. She almost forgets she is there with Fitz. She can't face him right now. How would he feel if he knew she made this mistake and now it's come back to haunt her? She decides to run home without telling Fitz what happened. She gets in her car, upset, and drives away.
Fitz returns from the kitchen. It looks like they need a new chef. He goes to find Liv and finds that she's gone. He asks around and no one knows where she went.
He goes to Tom, who was trying to get that sous chef to come in for the night. "Tom where is Liv?"
"I don't know sir. I thought I saw her come out of the restroom and then she went outside."
She is nowhere to be found. Fitz sends her a text, Baby where are you? Is everything okay?
Liv looks down at her phone to see Fitz's text. It just makes her more upset. Suddenly there are blaring lights in front of her. She screams.
What happened?