"So, what did Liz send you home with today?" Mellie asked, as they both changed into comfier clothes for the evening.
Mellie had been in jeans and a nice shirt since her shift had ended earlier in the day, and Fitz had cooked dinner in his work clothes. So, both decided on some sweats for the remainder of the night.
"Uh...one sec," Fitz said, disappearing into the closet to change.
"Wait. Where are you — ?" Mellie asked, giving him an odd look as she laid out her clothes on the bed. "Fitz. You okay?"
"Yeah, I'm just changing," he explained from the closet, removing his clothing.
She raised an eyebrow. "Why'd you go in there to do it?"
"I'm just giving you privacy," he replied simply.
She walked over to the closet in just her underwear, giving him an odd look.
The moment she peeked in, his bottom half was completely bare.
"Like you haven't seen me naked a million times?" she questioned.
"Jeez," he remarked, hurriedly pulling a new pair of boxers up and over himself.
She gestured to his half-naked body in confusion. "And like I haven't seen your dick before?"
She walked back to the bed, chuckling slightly. "Fitz — it's been inside of me for God's sake."
He sighed from the closet, rolling his eyes. "I'm just trying to...I don't know. I...have a girlfriend."
"Ah. You don't want to feel guilty for being naked with your wife...whom you cheated on with said girlfriend," Mellie nodded, starting to change finally.
"...Uh. Yeah," he agreed, wanting this particular conversation to be over with.
"Well, don't worry. Being naked with you gives me absolutely no pleasure anymore," she shrugged from the bedroom. "You do have a really nice dick, though. That's something I can't ever deny."
He rolled his eyes in the closet, but kind of chuckled. "Thanks."
"You're welcome. So?" she asked.
"Right. She prescribed me Tofranil. So...Imipramine," he said.
"Oh okay, so...trying something completely different," Mellie nodded. "That's a...tricyclic antidepressant."
"Yeah. She said it could end up being exactly the change I need, or...it may not be right for me at all. For some, there are more side effects, which made me nervous. But...Buspirone is supposed to have very few side effects and I was sick and tired all the time on that, so. I have to have an open mind. Everyone is different."
"Yeah. Buspirone was bad for you. Although maybe not as bad as when you were briefly trying out Benzodiazepines. Those like...sedated you," Mellie agreed.
"I know," he nodded. "Are you...dressed?"
"Yes," she replied. "So you told her about your past issues with the other meds you've tried too, right? Everything?"
He walked out, sitting on the bed across from her.
"Yes," he nodded. "About the dizziness with...fluoxetine and duloxetine."
"Good. Well, like you said, everyone is different. Medications affect everyone differently, so...what causes others side effects may not cause them for you, and vice versa. Liz is amazing. She'll help you find the right one. You just have to be prepared to be patient."
"Mhm," he nodded. "And if...TCAs are bad, then there are still plenty of SSRIs and SNRIs I can go back to and try out, I suppose. It just...feels like a wild goose chase, to be honest."
"I know. I understand," Mellie nodded. "But as hard as it is, you need to stick this out. I think it's time, Fitz."
"Yeah," he nodded, running his fingers through his hair. "It is."
"Well. You start them tonight or tomorrow morning?" Mellie asked.
"Tonight. Obviously it will take a bit for my body to get used to it and for it to work. If...it's going to work," he said skeptically.
"Hey now. Don't completely doubt medicine," she said.
"No, I don't," he said. "I just doubt my luck with it."
"Well, I think this time will be different," Mellie nodded. "I really do."
"Thanks," he chuckled. "I will try to...emulate that positivity."
"Good," she replied. "I'm glad you're trying again, Fitz."
"Me too," he agreed, looking around. "Well. I better go find K. We're going to...look at some places together on the computer."
"Alright," Mellie nodded. "I think I'm going to go read in the sunroom. Let me know if you and her find some good ones tonight."
"Yeah. Will do," he said, getting up and grabbing his laptop. "Have a good time reading."
"Mhm."
She headed downstairs and he looked around for their daughter.
"K?" he yelled out.
"In my room," she yelled back.
When he opened the door, he saw a cute sight. Karen wiggling her toes as she laid on her bed on her computer, with Hank curled up next to her.
"Hey," he smiled.
"Hey, daddy," she said, smiling back. "Are we looking at places now?"
"I thought we could, yes. You doing your homework?" he asked.
"Yes, I am almost done," she nodded. "This isn't due until next week but I just thought I would do it anyway."
He chuckled, entering her room. "That's my girl. Can I come sit with you?"
"Yes!" she nodded, scooting over. "Come on, Hank. Daddy needs some room, too."
Hank got up and switched sides, curling up directly next to the wall.
"Thank you," Fitz said, sitting next to her in her bed.
He looked at the screen and saw her working on an online worksheet, finishing the final question. Like the studious young girl she was.
"Mom and I are so proud of you, K," Fitz said, smiling.
Karen closed her laptop and smiled. "Thanks, dad. I know."
"I know you know. But we just like to make sure you hear it a lot."
She giggled. "Because...you are extra proud?"
"Exactly right," he chuckled. "I know we've got a lot going on, and it's a little overwhelming. So you staying ahead on your school work and your piano, and everything you do, is...really awesome. You always keep up with it, but...right now, especially...is tougher. So we are so proud. Not all kids are as responsible as you are."
"Thanks, dad," she nodded. "I am almost 11, you know."
He laughed, hearing that statement from her again. She did like to bring up often, how big of a girl she was becoming. She had every right!
"I know! Don't remind me," he said, putting his hand to his face. "You're just growing up so fast."
She giggled in response. "Don't worry, dad. I will always be yours and mom's baby."
He smiled, pulling her in for a side hug.
"And don't you forget it," he said.
She snuggled into his side happily, looking up at him in wonder. "Are you okay, dad?"
He looked down at her curiously, wondering if he'd given off a weird vibe. "Of course I am, honey. Why do you ask?"
"Oh. Well, I just know you and mom have been talking about your appointment lately. The one you had today, when you couldn't pick me up from piano."
"Oh," he nodded understandingly. "Yes, baby, I'm perfectly okay."
"Okay. Good. Did the doctor give you anything to help you?" she asked.
"Hopefully," he nodded. "She gave me...some medication."
Karen nodded curiously, and looked at him intently. "It's medicine for your brain, isn't it?"
He nodded back. "It is. How did...you know that?"
She shrugged. "I know you don't need medicine for anything on your body. You aren't hurt. So...it's for your brain, I thought."
He smiled at his daughter and nodded. She clearly took after her grandma Jean. So perceptive.
"You are right," he agreed. "Do you know...why I need medicine for my brain?"
She shrugged. "I wondered if...maybe it was because you get really nervous? More nervous than...anyone is supposed to get. Like that one time a long time ago...in your room."
He nodded again, remembering what time she was referring to. The time she'd witnessed one of his attacks during an extremely stressful work week. She'd been pretty little; it had been years ago. And it was the only one she'd ever witnessed, and he'd been mortified about it. He'd managed to hide it as much as he could, telling her to run and grab Mellie mostly just so she'd leave the situation. But she'd still caught some of it. It was hard to explain to a young child, so he'd basically told her he didn't feel well and had been stressed.
But children could sense things. When something was wrong. When their parents were scared, or unwell.
He honestly thought she'd forgotten because of how little she'd been, and because that was thankfully, the only one she'd ever seen. But apparently not.
"Yes. You are right," he told her. "It's...called anxiety. It's a little more than just...being nervous."
"Oh. Yes. I've heard that before. Being anxious," she replied.
"Mhm," he nodded.
"So...this medicine will help you not to be so anxious?" she asked hopefully.
"I hope so. If it doesn't, I'll keep looking until I find one that does," he assured her.
"Okay. Good," she said, relieved.
She looked up at him and gave him another hug.
"I love you, dad. I don't want you to be anxious."
He wrapped his other arm around her tightly and kissed the top of her head appreciatively.
"Neither do I, sweetie. I love you so much."
She sighed contently into his sweatshirt, and then Hank nudged her elbow. Probably wondering what all the hugging was about and why he wasn't a part of it.
She giggled and turned to pat his head.
"Sorry, Hank. I can give you a hug too if you want," Karen assured him, leaning down to hug her pup.
"I'm sure he's very grateful," Fitz chuckled. "Alright. You ready to look at some of the places I saved online?"
"Yes," Karen nodded, scooting in.
Fitz kept his arm wrapped around her, and Karen leaned her head on her dad's arm as she watched him open everything up on his computer.
"So," he began. "I have a good variety of places saved. I kind of went overboard when I looked during spring break."
"Okay. Where are all of them?" she asked.
"All around the area. Some probably aren't ideal, like the ones in the city, but I saved them anyway just because they were really nice and I thought it would be fun for us to look through them together," he said.
She smiled and nodded. "I think so too. I will be happy to find the best place for us, dad. Our place."
"Me too, baby," he said.
"I think it would be so cool to live in the city someday, dad. It's so...big. Maybe we really should look at those places. I thought you wanted to live there one day, too?" Karen questioned.
"Well, I do. I'd love to move back one day. But now probably just...isn't the time. I just like to look at what's all out there."
"But how come? Your work is there and you have friends closer to there. And...it's so awesome there."
"I know, K. But you are the most important thing to consider. And you are here," he said, cupping her cheek gently for a moment.
She blushed and giggled.
"But...I will live with you half the time too, won't I? Like you and mom explained? So I'll get to be with you no matter what," she shrugged.
"Yes. But your school will still be here," he explained. "It would be pretty tough to commute to school every morning from the city. You'd have to wake up a lot earlier, and then you'd have to ride the train with me."
"Oh. Right," she said, understandingly. "Like...what you and Olivia used to do together."
"Yes," he nodded.
"And then you'd have to go all the way back to the city again for work," she continued.
"Mhm," he nodded. "It wouldn't be the most convenient right now. But someday, baby. I promise. When you're older."
"Like when I'm in high school or college?" she asked.
"Maybe!" he nodded happily.
"Awesome. I still want to look at the pictures of the ones in the city 'cause I bet they are cool," she said eagerly.
"Absolutely. That's why I saved them," he agreed. "Maybe someday down the road when we want to look again — one of them will be for sale."
"Yes!" she nodded.
He showed her every single place on his vast list as promised. And it was pretty fun. Even the ones that were far fetched, or the ones that they both decided they didn't like after all — it was fun to look through them together. It was what Karen had requested they do, so he followed through on that promise. And they came out with a few favorites in the end. Favorites that Fitz was going to inquire about this week, and ones that Olivia had already seen, too.
If he could go see a few of the ones both of his girls approved of, that would be awesome.
"Which one is your favorite?" Fitz asked.
"Hmm..." Karen thought. "Well, this one's the biggest, right?"
She pointed to one in Tuchakoe, a village in Eastchester.
"Yep. That one's the biggest," he nodded.
"That's pretty cool. And it has a pool," she shrugged.
"Yeah. But so does the one in Bronxville," he pointed out.
"Oh right," she nodded. "And that one has the big bedrooms."
"Mhm," he agreed.
"But, that one in Pelham is pretty too," she added.
"It is," he nodded. "We will have quite the decision to make if we really do get our pick between these and have to decide from there."
"Yeah. I can't decide a favorite, dad," she shrugged.
"That's okay. When we go look at them in person, maybe you'll be able to pick then," he said.
"Yeah! I have never gone to look at houses before. It sounds like it will be cool."
"It will be. But, we have to keep an open mind, okay? Because when we see these in person, maybe...we won't like them as much as we thought. Or...someone may put in an offer on one of them before we get to see it. Nothing is set in stone, so we always have to be prepared to keep looking, okay?"
"Right. Because...there are probably lots of other people looking for houses too," she nodded.
"Exactly," he replied. "But, I'll try and see what I can schedule. Maybe there will be some showings or open houses this weekend," he said.
"Okay!" she nodded.
He knew that while she was curious and growing more and more excited at the idea of another house, she was also a little uncertain about it still. So, with that in mind, he thought he would propose something else. Something that clearly had been on her mind tonight.
"And maybe...after we see some houses, we can go into the city. Grab some food, or some dessert. Walk around. What do you think?" he asked.
She gasped. "Really?"
"Sure. I know you haven't been down in a while. You're probably due for a trip," he smiled.
"Yay!" she nodded. "That sounds fun, daddy. I would love to do that."
"Good. It's a plan," he assured her.
She gasped again. "Wait."
"Hm?"
"You know who lives in the city?"
His heart leaped. A lot of people lived in the city but of course, his mind went to one person. The one person he figured his daughter would be referring to.
He played dumb anyway. "Who?"
"Liv!" Karen exclaimed. "Maybe...she could come with us when we go to the city?"
The hopeful look on his daughter's face mixed with the excitement he felt in his own body made it hard to say no to that.
He nodded, giving her a smile. "Maybe! I'll reach out to her, okay? She might be busy, though, I'm not sure. We'll just have to see."
Karen nodded. "Okay! I bet if she's not busy, she will totally want to come."
"Of course she would. It's you!" Fitz nodded. "She loves you."
"Yeah. And also 'cause you and her are still good friends. Right?" Karen asked for confirmation.
He nodded. "Uh...yes. Right."
"I bet she misses us both," Karen said happily. "I miss her a ton."
"I do too," he agreed.
Might as well tell the truth.
Karen smiled. "I know."
"Oh, you know, huh?" he chuckled, poking her side.
She giggled. "Yes."
"How do you know that?"
She smirked. "I dunno. Because Olivia is just the best. And I know you think it too."
He smiled. "You're right. I...do think it."
He wasn't going to play dumb with that one. It was the truth.
Karen smiled, seeming very satisfied.
"Alright sweet girl. If you're all finished with homework for the night, why don't you go shower and get ready for bed," he said, patting her leg.
"Mmkay," she nodded.
"And I will go and make your lunch," he said, getting up too.
"Thanks, dad."
"Mhm. Yell when you're ready for bed. Mom and I will come say goodnight."
"Kay!"
"C'mon, buddy. Let's go let you outside," Fitz said, getting Hank's attention.
The word "outside" was all he needed to hear; he followed Fitz out of the room.
The evening wound down after they all settled in for the night, and started going to bed.
Fitz and Mellie said goodnight to their little girl, and then each other, before heading to separate areas of the house. She, back to the bedroom they once shared, and he, back to his room downstairs.
He hoped it wouldn't be too much longer before he could get out of here and be rid of this odd sleeping arrangement.
Before he truly wound down for the night, though, he called Olivia before bed, as he often did. He'd been texting her frequently throughout the evening; mostly she'd been asking all about his appointment with Doctor North. He'd have to make separate calls the next day to both Abby and David, and his mother, all of whom were also interested to see how things had gone.
Olivia picked up pretty quickly when he called, and she gasped when she did.
"Hi, baby!" she greeted.
"Hi, you," he replied, smiling in the dark.
"I miss your face, can we FaceTime instead?" she asked.
"Uh...sure. Yeah," he nodded, pulling his phone away from his ear. He hit FaceTime, which made her much happier.
"So much better," she nodded.
"Agreed," he chuckled, admiring her pretty face. "How was your day today?"
"It was good. How was yours? Did you take your medication yet?" she asked immediately.
"I did. Just before laying down," he nodded.
"Oh good, baby. Good," she replied.
"Yeah. Otherwise, the rest was alright. Karen and I decided on a couple of places we want to check out in person — hopefully...this weekend. I'll call tomorrow and see what our options are."
"Oh, that's great!" she exclaimed. "I'm so glad. Maybe tomorrow morning when you've got your computer, you can show me which places?"
"Yes, of course," he smiled. "You know what else?"
"What else?" she asked.
"I think Karen's been a little antsy to go into the city again, so I told her I'd take her this weekend for a bit. And her first request was that...I ask you to come along."
Olivia smiled brightly. "Aww, seriously?!"
"Seriously."
"That is so sweet of her — of course I will come along! Is that...I mean, will that be okay?"
"Absolutely. I'm not sure what we're going to do yet. But...I just figured maybe she had a good point. It could be fun, just the three of us again, and...she'd love it. She really would. And so would I."
"Baby, I would love it too. Count me in, I don't care what we do. I would be happy to join," she said with a smile.
"Awesome. She will be so excited," Fitz nodded.
"I'm so glad! Now I'm excited. Get to see K, and hang out with you over a weekend? That is wonderful news," Olivia nodded.
"It sure is," he nodded. "So what about you, Liv. What have you been up to?"
"Oh, nothing. The usual. Homework. Made dinner, hung out with friends. Although — we did have some pretty riveting conversations. We made some plans for tomorrow evening; we're having a bigger study group for an exam. Friends are inviting their friends, and...yeah. There will be people I've never even met before, so that will be fun."
"Oh that sounds great," Fitz nodded. "Always nice to meet new people."
"Mhm. And apparently, we have to start thinking about our...little formal thing we have in May. It's more like a 'graduation' even though we go home to graduate from our home schools, too. But we get dressed up and everything. So that should be fun. Everyone's been talking about it so I'm sure it will be a hot discussion between us all tomorrow. Huck likes to think he's a matchmaker, so he joked that he'd have everyone in the room paired up for it by tomorrow night," Olivia laughed.
Fitz's heart dropped slowly, but he didn't show it on his face, due to the embarrassment he also felt.
"Ah. So like...everyone goes with a date?" Fitz asked casually.
At least he hoped it sounded casual.
"I think so. It's like a celebratory formal kind of, but...no theme or anything like that. Just a celebration of all of us. People gather at the school for some events and then go out for dinner. See a show, whatever you want to do," she explained.
"Got it. That does sound...fun. So does Huck have you and your group of friends all matched up already?" Fitz asked.
He meant it sort of as a joke, but also to inquire more. He felt embarrassed that he was now so curious about this, but he couldn't help himself from asking.
"Actually, I think he does," Olivia laughed.
Wait a second, what?
"Everyone in my group of friends has someone they're interested in or is already dating someone, so they're kind of covered. And I think I'll probably just go with Stephen. He has a girlfriend too, she's just back in Scotland and obviously not going to come here for this. I mean, we'll be going in a group probably anyway, so...it's not really that important. But, he knows I'm dating someone, he just doesn't know who you are. So since we're both with someone, we just figured it would make sense."
All Fitz heard out of that explanation was yes, she had a date, and his name was Stephen.
"Oh," Fitz nodded. "Okay. So...you and Stephen have already...talked about this and everything."
"Yeah. I mean, briefly," Olivia shrugged. "We kind of talked about it tonight."
Fitz nodded understandingly, but felt a surge of jealousy go through him. Jealousy was not something he was used to at all; he had virtually no experience with the feeling. Not in this way.
And it was a dumb thing to be jealous about, he thought. He kind of felt like an idiot. He was torn between coming off as pathetic and controlling, but also feeling entitled to inquiring more, simply because he was her boyfriend. The feelings crowded his brain, and he couldn't help it.
"Okay," he nodded. "I just wonder if...you could have maybe told me about this beforehand. I know it's all very recent, I understand that. I just...would have liked to know about it, that's all."
She furrowed her eyebrows at him. "Oh, baby. I'm sorry, I just...I didn't think you'd want to come to something like this? I thought...maybe it would be odd, and...not appropriate in this scenario."
"No, I know. I agree. That wasn't what I meant. I just meant about...going with someone else. Another...guy," he replied.
She looked at him, confused.
"Honey, you heard me when I told you he has a girlfriend, right? And that he knows I'm with someone as well?" she confirmed.
"Yes. I heard you."
She raised an eyebrow at him, feeling like his answer was fairly blunt. With a hint of annoyance to it.
"Okay. Fitz, it's...not like an actual date or anything. It's just...ceremonial. We'll be in a big group. Our group of friends just has couples in it already like I said, so...it's more just to have an even amount of couples together, really."
Fitz nodded, raising his eyebrows questionably. And she realized perhaps that wasn't the best wording.
"Well — no, not...not couples like that. You know what I meant," she replied. "This is not...something you need to be jealous about, Fitz."
"Okay..." he nodded. "You telling me that doesn't really...make me feel it any less."
She sighed, shaking her head at him. "Fitz. We're not...really doing this right now, are we?"
"Doing what?" he asked genuinely.
"You're not really going to tell me you're feeling jealous about my friend and I going to some formal celebration together when you're...married? You literally...have a wife, Fitz."
He looked at her in disbelief.
"Are you serious?" he asked.
She shrugged at him. "Yes. I'm serious. Are you?"
"That isn't fair at all," he said, shaking his head. "You know that isn't fair."
She looked at him questionably. "Why not? You're feeling insecure about this little thing when I have literally lived in your house with you and your wife? Heard the things that I heard? Pretended every day, and never so much as complained? Not to mention...your best friend is a woman. And...a beautiful woman, I might add, who you've literally made out with before? This is certainly no different than that, Fitz."
"Olivia, oh my...you know Abby is like...my sister. You know that. And you also knew exactly what my marital situation was before we decided we were going to do this. Don't act like...you didn't know how it was going to be," he said. "I just can't even believe you're...going there right now."
"Yes, you're right. I do know. I completely respect Abby; she's amazing, and I love your friendship with her. I was just proving my point," Olivia explained. "And I went there because you went there first, Fitz."
"I wouldn't have if I knew it was going to end up in some comparison to my familial situation that I'm very well aware is not ideal," he replied. "I guess after all this time I didn't know this was going to be some...marriage card that you could play."
"So...I can't bring up anything that might make you feel bad, but...you're allowed to do it to me?" she asked.
"What? No, Olivia, I just didn't think this had anything to do with my marriage, which I obviously am not proud of and you know it."
"Like I said, you went there first, and just because it brings about bad feelings for you doesn't mean it doesn't do the same for me. I'm not trying to invalidate how you feel, Fitz. But you just have to remember what I went through, too. You have to understand that after everything I've had to feel, is it really fair for you to be upset over this?"
He sighed, putting his hand to his forehead and rubbing his temples.
He remembered all the fake kisses and hugs he and Mellie gave each other for Karen's sake when he was well into his relationship with Olivia. Hell, they'd seen each other naked just that day. And even though those were things he couldn't control, or things he felt he needed to do at that time, they were things that Olivia hated and had frankly, had to deal with for quite a while. Things she had seen herself, or as she had pointed out — heard herself.
Shit. She was right.
"Okay."
"...Okay?" she asked.
"Okay," he nodded. "You're right. I'm sorry."
"There's nothing to apologize about," she replied. "I'm not mad at you. I just wanted you to understand where I was coming from."
"Well. I'm...sorry anyway. I should have...taken what you've felt into account," he said. "That wasn't fair of me. And it wasn't fair to...insinuate anything about you and him, either. I...heard a guy's name and got jealous and irrational. I'm sorry."
She nodded, giving him a brief smile. "Stephen is a good friend. Just a good friend, like Abby is to you. And he has a girlfriend that he is so in love with. Like...insanely in love with. He even calls her...his little dove. His little dove, for God's sake."
Fitz watched her smile brighten and he couldn't help but chuckle with her.
"He's a great guy. I promise," Olivia nodded. "But...I'm realizing that you're right too."
He looked at her in question.
"I should have told you beforehand. I didn't...I didn't even think about it because I haven't known about it for that long, and it didn't feel like a big deal in my head, I'll admit. But from your perspective, I understand how it doesn't feel that great. I do get that. And just because...I've dealt with my fair share of jealousy before, doesn't mean I needed to bring that up in this conversation. I just wanted to...prove a point, I guess, and in doing so I did...invalidate how you felt. And that's not okay. I'm sorry, Fitz."
"No. You don't...have to apologize. I'm sorry. This is on me. I'm sounding insecure and controlling, which is exactly what I didn't want to do. I really...did not intend to sound that way, please...believe me."
"Oh, Fitz. You aren't. I understand where you're coming from and I appreciate your apology. So please accept mine too."
She gave him a smile and he returned it with a nod. "I accept it. Thank you. I just...God. I'm sorry. I have no excuse. I just...fucking love you so much and I'm not used to feeling...jealous."
"Kinda sucks, huh?" she asked.
"Uh-huh," he nodded. "I guess I deserve it big time, though, after all the shit I put you through."
"Stop," she shook her head. "You know you didn't 'put me' through anything. I shouldn't have...insinuated that before. And I wouldn't wish jealousy on anyone. Least of all, you."
He sighed, touching the screen thoughtfully.
"Forgive me."
"You don't need forgiving," she replied softly, touching the screen back. "But you're forgiven."
"The last thing I ever want to do is fight with you."
"Agreed," she nodded. "We've already dealt with enough shit, don't you think?"
"Yes," he chuckled. "Which is entirely...my fault."
"No. It's mine too. You couldn't possibly help yourself, I'm just too sexy to resist," she joked, giving him a wink.
They both started laughing and he nodded.
"I'm going to write that in the divorce papers. 'Couldn't help myself. She was too sexy to resist,'" he teased.
"You have my permission," Olivia laughed, letting out a slight yawn.
He smiled at his screen, seeing her all ready for bed and snuggled up under the covers.
"Well, my dear, sexy girlfriend. I will let you get some sleep, okay," he said softly.
"It's okay, you don't have to hang up," she replied.
He chuckled. "I see you yawning. I don't want to keep you up. Plus, we have to get up extra early tomorrow."
She smiled, remembering that they had a coffee date in the morning.
"Well, you do have a point there," she agreed.
"I love you. I'm sorry, again, Olivia."
"I'm sorry again, too," she replied. "I love you very much."
"Night."
"Goodnight."
Silence filled both of their bedrooms again as they hung up, and clicked off their phones.
Both, wanting to put tonight behind them, and looking forward to the next morning.
"Hi!"
"Hi," Fitz greeted back, pulling her in immediately for a hug.
"Oh!" Olivia laughed, feeling his body press against hers suddenly.
She wrapped her arms tightly around him and held him close. He held her for longer than normal — just to make up for their little tiff last night.
She pulled back and kissed his cheek, getting a whiff of his cologne and his aftershave. It smelled nice.
"How are you?" he asked.
She smiled. "Better now."
"Always better," he agreed, leaning in to peck her lips. "Here."
He took her bag and set it down, and she thanked him gratefully.
She also thanked him for ordering their drinks already, which were just about ready.
"Order for Fitz?"
He perked up and squeezed her hand. "I'll be back."
He came back with two drinks, and a small espresso cup which she knew would be for him. Every once in a while on busy days, he'd enjoy some espresso on the side.
"Ooo, what did I get today?" she asked, intrigued.
She could drink just about anything from a coffee shop and be satisfied, so it was always a treat to be surprised.
"Today, my love — a latte," he said, bowing his head dramatically as he set it in front of her. "Venti."
She giggled, accepting it gratefully. "Thank you! And a venti on a Wednesday? It's my lucky day."
He shrugged and nodded. "Sometimes all days are venti days."
"Put that on a T-shirt, baby," she laughed, taking a sip. "And what did you get for yourself, my love?"
"A...dark roast. And...espresso," he added.
"Excellent choices," she nodded.
After taking a sip of his coffee, he immediately reached for her hand, and looked around the coffee shop contently. It made her smile.
"You're looking very handsome this morning," she noted, appreciating the view.
He looked down at himself, wearing what he normally always wore. A three-piece suit and tie. Accessorized wonderfully with a tie clip and cuff links.
His cheeks flushed, as normal, and he smiled. "Thank you. You look beautiful as always."
"Thank you!" she nodded, feeling pretty humbled by the comment. She was wearing a gray cardigan over a white cropped shirt, and her favorite pair of high waisted jeans. Plus, some cute slip ons, and all her favorite jewelry.
"Mhm. I have to admit...we were spoiled last week with our time in the Hamptons. I've missed seeing you every day," he said.
"I've missed seeing you every day too," she nodded. "And spending every waking minute together."
"And every sleeping minute too," he smiled.
"True," she agreed with a laugh. "I've also missed...everything that comes with seeing you every day."
"Oh yeah? Like...like what?" he asked, resting his chin on his palm with an innocent smile.
"Oh, you know. Like...cooking. And reading with you. And working out with you. And...talking," she smirked.
"Uh-huh. Talking. We both know that's my specialty," he said seriously.
That had her laughing. "You have...a lot of specialties."
He peered at her curiously. "Oh? You think so?"
"I know so."
"I would...like to hear more about this," he nodded.
She smirked, shaking her head. "I think it's a bit too inappropriate to get into that right here right now."
"Fair. Then...we will be getting into it later at some point," he said quietly.
"Oh, absolutely. We can dive...really deep into it, when we're...alone, somewhere else," she nodded suggestively.
He was blushing now, looking around with a slight smile on his face. He cleared his throat and nodded.
"We will be...diving deep when we are...alone. Yes," he agreed quietly.
She had to hold back laughter.
"You're blushing," she whispered.
"So are you," he whispered back, smiling at her.
She felt the warmth on her own cheeks and laughed, which of course, made her blush harder.
"Oh my God, this was my fault — we have to change the subject, I'm getting flustered," she giggled.
"I agree, I'm...I'm kind of turned on, I think it would be a bad idea for me to stand up right now," he admitted quietly, subtly feeling around down there. "Yes. I'm correct, I will not be...standing up for the time being."
That had her almost spitting out her coffee in laughter.
"No way."
He raised an eyebrow at her. "Are you...doubting your own abilities? 'Cause I assure you...you have specialties of your own."
She smirked and discreetly reached under the table, looking around to make sure nobody was watching at the moment.
Their table was small and they were in the back, so their positioning in the shop, at least, was beneficial.
Her eyes widened when she felt him through his pants. She let her hand linger there for a moment, watching his eyes travel from her eyes, to her lips suggestively, and back up.
She smirked and pulled her hand away, looking at him almost impressed.
"Oh my God, baby," she whispered.
"I told you. This is...what you do," he nodded. "I don't have a say in this, I assure you."
"Wow. I do have some specialties," she admitted proudly. "Do we have to go...take care of that somewhere, or something, because Jesus, baby."
Now he almost spit out his drink as he laughed.
"Unfortunately, given our location and the time, I think our only option at the moment is to change the subject," he chuckled.
"You're probably right," she nodded. "Okay, okay — new subject. So, how do you feel today? First day after taking your new meds?"
He shrugged. "Eh. Not any different. It can take some time before I start to feel anything. Not...always. But sometimes. And when...my body does start to react to it, it might not be great at first either. Regardless, it will take some time to figure out if it's right for me. That's part of the reason it's such a...process."
Olivia sighed and nodded. "Right. And then...I suppose if it isn't right, they'll want you to gradually wean yourself off of it so you can try another one?"
"Yeah. And I got lectured for that very thing yesterday by Doctor North," he admitted.
"For what?"
"Well, the last ones I was on, which was...even before you came to New York, I abruptly stopped taking them. Which isn't good."
"Fitzgerald!" she exclaimed.
"Yeah. I know. Not my smartest move. But I was fed up."
"Oh, baby. Well, what else did she tell you yesterday? Did she have any...I don't know. Other tips, or suggestions since you haven't had luck with this yet?"
"Uh...yeah. I should keep taking the melatonin that you recommended. It's drug-free anyway, and it doesn't interfere with my medication. So...best to keep that up, and it may just help me sleep even more because the medication also tends to make people sleepy."
"Oh, well that's great!" Olivia nodded.
"Yeah. And...she told me to cut back on my caffeine," he added, easily tipping back his espresso shot.
Her jaw dropped.
He cleared his throat and looked up at her casually.
"What?"
"She told you to cut back on caffeine, and you ordered a venti dark roast and a shot of espresso this morning?!" she asked.
He nodded slowly. "...What? You said they were excellent choices?"
"That was before I knew what your doctor said, Fitzgerald," she said, raising an eyebrow at him. "You just shot that espresso like it was water."
"I like espresso," he reasoned. "I have a long day today, I just wanted a little extra."
"Oh, baby, what am I going to do with you," she sighed, putting her hand to her head.
"It was just a suggestion," he replied. "But caffeine doesn't affect me...that much. So it's fine."
"That much?" she asked.
"Well...I mean, in general, caffeine tends to make every anxiety symptom worse," he said.
"Yes, how wonderful," Olivia nodded.
"I'm clearly somewhat addicted, though, so there's no hope for me anyway," he shrugged.
"See how this is all just not a good combination?" Olivia asked.
"Yes. But ask anybody else you know who has anxiety. I bet they can't live without coffee or tea," he pointed out with a laugh.
She thought about it, knowing a few friends and a cousin who dealt with it.
Why was he so spot on right now?
"Hmm. What the hell?" she nodded. "You're right? Why are you right?"
He chuckled and nodded in response.
"Why do you all do that to yourselves?!" she exclaimed.
"What can I say, might as well make our lives harder, right," he shrugged, taking a sip of his coffee.
She laughed and shook her head. "Okay, well maybe you can try to cut back a little bit? Not too significantly, just...maybe order smaller sizes, and...probably no espresso shots on the side."
He furrowed his eyebrows. "That doesn't sound very fun."
"No, it doesn't, you're right, but your doctor suggested it."
"I know. But at this point, I know how caffeine affects me. I've always managed that just fine. As long as I also drink water and eat, I'm good. Promise."
She nodded. "Fine. How about just no shooting espresso on the side then?"
He looked at her and sighed.
"I'll throw in a kiss for good measure," she added.
He nodded. "Fine. Deal."
"Thank you."
"And —"
"Oh, Lord. And what?" she asked, leaning in.
"And..." he whispered, leaning in as well.
He whispered something completely and entirely filthy. Something she probably would never repeat out loud.
She gasped at him and watched him lean back with a shy smirk on his face and pink cheeks. Clearly, he was still in that mind space from earlier in their conversation.
"Fitzgerald Grant, that was extremely naughty for a Wednesday morning."
"That's the deal, take it or leave it."
She smirked and nodded slowly. "Deal."
He smiled at her innocently and leaned back in. "I will take my kiss now, please."
She giggled, leaning in to peck his lips. "You just went from...dirty to wholesome real quick."
"Thank you," he nodded.
"Thank you, for telling me all about your visit. I had planned to ask more last night on the phone, before..."
"Before everything went to shit."
"Yes, exactly," she laughed.
He rolled his eyes at himself. "Sorry. I'm an ass."
"You are the opposite of an ass," she replied. "No more talk about that. Another new subject."
He laughed. "Hmm. Okay. How about..."
"Blowjobs."
"Huh?" Olivia asked.
"That's what we did all weekend. I mean, girl, don't get me wrong, we were doing plenty of other shit, and it was great, but damn! I think I gave him six the whole time! I'ma be honest, it got a lil tiring!"
Olivia was cracking up on the other end. "Too many blowjobs?"
"In that amount of time — yes! Girl, I know I have a magic mouth or something because they're clearly fire the way he be moaning and groaning and shit, but damn! There's only so much I can think about during them, I get bored. By the end of the weekend, I started reciting Psychology definitions in my head like a whole nerd! I felt like you!"
"Why, 'cause I also give fire blowjobs?" Olivia asked with a smile.
"Well that too, mister shy man probably out here moaning and groaning too I'm sure — but damn. Multitasking and studying and shit. I know that's how my girl rolls."
"I'm a good multitasker, studier, and I give great blowjobs. Thanks, Shawn — I feel amazing now," she giggled.
"As you should!" Shawn exclaimed.
"Well, I'm glad your weekend with Marcus was good, though. Excessive oral sex and all," Olivia laughed.
"Oh yes. It was a great time. But how about your week with your mans?!" Shawn asked.
"We also had a great time! Probably not as heavy on the oral sex as your weekend, more just...heavier on the sex in general. I mean...Lord."
"Yaaaasss! My girl was gettin' it!" Shawn exclaimed. "That's it!"
"Yes," Olivia laughed. "Like...a lot. There were even a couple days in between where my body needed to recover. But we're all good now."
"Oh shit. He done went and pounded you too hard?!"
"Well — upon request...yes," Olivia nodded.
"Oop! Shit!" Shawn exclaimed. "It sounds like a mighty fine week to me."
"It was. Aside from all the sex, we ate lots of great food that we cooked for each other, read a lot, did some work, exercised, and...drank."
"Ooo! Now look at that, just as I said. A great multitasker. And a nerd, but I love you for that. And you got your drank on too?! What kinda fine things does one drink in the Hamptons?"
"Hmm, let's see. Wine. A couple different cocktails. He's a big scotch drinker, which...isn't my deal, so he got that to himself."
"Oh, Jesus. Yeah, I don't think I could drink scotch on the regular either. No ma'am. That shit's got somethin' to it. I swear, the only thing stronger than that shit is a McDonald's Sprite."
Olivia burst into laughter and nodded. "Oh my God, Shawn."
"Well, it's true! You tryna be on some shit — you got yourself two options. Go find you some golden arches or go drink some scotch."
They were both laughing hard together and Olivia nodded.
"You got a point. Although, scotch doesn't seem to affect him too much. He got drunk one night but he had a lot. He's got a pretty high tolerance. Except...I did almost kill him with my spicy shrimp noodles."
Now Shawn burst into laughter.
"Ahhh!" she yelled, giggling. "Girl, you been knew that's what happens when you get down with a white man!"
"No, he's...anything but weak when it comes to his food. I just went to town on the cayenne and paprika," she laughed. "Seriously, it even had my eyes watering."
"For real?!" Shawn exclaimed.
"Mhm. I wanted to make it spicier than last time, and I went a little too hard."
"That's hilarious. At first I thought for sure you were gonna say he couldn't handle no spices in his food," Shawn laughed. "But then I remembered he's skilled in the kitchen, so I figure he probably likes everything."
"Yeah. The man shoots espresso for fun — although we're working on that — and orders dark roast black coffee from Starbucks on the regular. He can handle pretty much anything," Olivia nodded.
Shawn's has dropped. "Well damn! Now that's right up there with McDonald's sprite and scotch!"
"Practically," Olivia nodded. "I like black coffee from Starbucks too. But it is strong as fuck, that's for sure."
"Mhhmmm. Y'all are crazy for that, I can't do that shit."
"How come?" Olivia asked.
"'Cause I actually like myself — the hell? You go ahead and drink your acidic bitter bean water. I'ma be over here with a nice caramel latte, enjoying my existence."
Olivia laughed again. "I enjoy caramel lattes too!"
"Good. At least you ain't too crazy."
"Just a little," Olivia admitted.
"And I love you for it," Shawn nodded.
Olivia was interrupted by Greta, walking through the door. "Hey O! You almost ready?"
Olivia smiled and nodded. "Hey G. Yeah, I'm ready. Here, it's Shawn, say hi."
She turned the phone toward Greta and they both gasped.
"Shawn!"
"My girl Greta! What's up?!" Shawn asked.
"Nothin' much. Olivia and I are about to head to a big group study session. Or...hangout. Who knows which one we'll be doing more of," Greta laughed.
"Y'all so studious over there on the East coast," Shawn laughed. "I hope you have a great ass time. Thanks for being such a good influence on our girl, Greta — that way I don't got to be!"
All three girls laughed and Greta nodded. "Of course!"
"Alright, Shawn, I better go," Olivia said. "I'll snap you."
"Hellll yeah, girl. Talk to you later," Shawn said. "Bye Greta!"
"Bye Shawn!"
Olivia gave her a wave and hung up, looking up to Greta. "Well damn, you look good!"
Greta blushed and smirked. "Thank you!"
"Is that for a certain blond Finnish man who you happened to go on a date with the other night?" Olivia asked.
Greta smiled. "Potentially."
"Excellent," Olivia nodded. "Just what I like to hear. I can't wait to be a wing woman tonight."
"I might need you, honestly. We're both...so awkward," Greta sighed.
"Oh, you are not! And he's just shy. He just needs to warm up to you a little bit and get more comfortable, and the awkwardness will pass. Trust me. I speak from the personal experience of dating a...very shy man."
"Yeah, yeah I know," Greta nodded. "It's just...he hasn't had a relationship for a long time. And...the last time I was interested in a dude, I was in middle school. So...there's that. I gotta get used to it again."
"Wait — weren't you just telling me the other day that you had sex with a guy this summer?"
"Yes — rebound sex. I wasn't interested in him for anything other than what his dick could give me. It was just...my stupid ass way of trying to forget my last relationship. With a woman, I should add. The first and only person...I've ever loved."
"Oh fuck," Olivia sighed. "I'm so sorry G, I didn't mean to dredge that up. Although I do hope that...his dick was worth the interest?"
Greta cracked up. "Eh. It was decent. But no need for the apology. It's totally fine, I'm over it. I'm...ready to move on. I've been ready. And ever since...I met Mikko, I just knew. He just made me feel ready. So...I just wanna get it right, you know? We both want to get it right, which is why we're taking it so slow and...why we're a little awkward."
"Well, I have a great feeling about you two. Always have. I am sending you two all my best vibes!"
"Thanks, O, I really appreciate it," Greta smiled.
"Of course. It's what you deserve," Olivia nodded. "So — let's go see your man."
"Absolutely. Let me go grab my textbook quick and I'll be back."
They headed down to the one and only "TV room" of the residence, which wasn't that big, but big enough for their gathering of students.
Not everyone was there yet, but a good amount of people were.
"Heyyy, finally someone else who actually lives here shows up!" Huck exclaimed at the two women.
"Hey, watch the sass, Huckles, we had to go through a lot to secure this room for a few hours!" Greta exclaimed.
"Yeah. And by going through a lot, she means...waiting our turn and putting our names on the excel spreadsheet," Olivia nodded.
"Hey — that took thought and effort," Greta pointed out.
Olivia nodded in agreement. "You know it."
"Okay, okay — my apologies," Huck laughed. "Hey — Stevie, how come you didn't reserve the room? You made the ladies do it? Not very gentleman-like."
Stephen scoffed, shaking his head. "No — they just beat me to it! They're way more on top of their shit than me."
"Ah, fair enough," Huck shrugged.
"We still love you, Stevie," Greta assured him.
"Thank you!" Stephen exclaimed.
"Hey Liv, Hey G!" a group of their friends exclaimed from the corner.
"Hey, guys!"
Behind them, more people walked in, so they had to get out of the way anyway. They headed to the corner to talk with some other friends from school; some of which lived in their same residence and some that didn't. But still, there were people there that Olivia had barely talked to before due to consistent class rosters, and had yet to properly meet.
Hopefully, it would be a good evening of group study and chilling.
They were pretty productive for over an hour; even making little games of their session. Having thoughtful conversations about things that may be on their advanced, college-credit English course exam. It was one of Olivia's favorite classes, and she personally, loved the discussions she had involving that class, whether inside or outside of it. Especially if she got to chat with other students in different sections of the course.
But naturally, they did revert to more casual conversation, and just hanging out with each other. Getting to know some of the other students at UNIS that they hadn't gotten to before.
"Wait, I'm so sorry...what's your name, man?" a boy named Tanner asked Joel.
Huck leaned in closer to Olivia, Greta, and Stephen.
"I think this is where he's supposed to say 'Alexander Hamilton'," Huck whispered.
Olivia gasped and started to laugh, and Greta smiled. "There's a million things he hasn't done."
"But just you wait," Olivia added.
"I'm so entirely confused. I thought that guy's name was Joel?" Stephen whispered. "Who the hell is Alexander Hamilton?"
"A bastard...orphan...son of a whore," Greta began.
"And a Scotsman," Olivia pointed at her.
"A Scotsman! Hey! Maybe we'd be good mates," Stephen whispered.
"It's pronounced 'Juul' but...you may say whatever you like, it doesn't matter to me, really," Joel replied to Tanner.
"No, no, no. In this house we pronounce people's names correctly," Olivia spoke up. "And by house, I mean...residence building."
"Absolutely," Greta agreed. "It doesn't feel good to have your name pronounced wrong. My last name is said wrong a lot. We got you, Joel!"
"Okay so his name is Joel," Stephen confirmed with Olivia, who started to laugh.
"Yes," she laughed quietly.
"Thank you all. You are very kind people," Joel said, smiling at them all sweetly.
"Oh my Gosh, he's too pure for this world," Huck whispered.
"So pure," Greta agreed in a whisper, while Olivia nodded. "I'm glad he's Mikko's best friend."
"Yeah, where is he, by the way? I just saw him before but now I can't find him," Olivia whispered, looking around the crowded room.
"I think he went to the restroom. He's definitely not in here anymore, or we'd know. He's easy to spot."
"Yeah, for real, how tall is he again?"
"I think...six four?" Greta replied.
"Holy mother," Olivia noted under her breath. "That man's got a foot on me."
"I know. Whew," Greta said, smiling. "Tall men please me."
"Tall men please me too," Olivia agreed with a laugh.
"How tall is..." Greta asked quietly, smirking at her.
"Six two," Olivia responded.
Greta nodded suggestively and gave her an "ok" sign with her fingers, which made Olivia giggle.
"Oh, he's back, he's back," Olivia whispered to Greta, nodding at the door.
In walked the young Finnish man — looking dapper as he always did. With his blond tousled hair and his crystal blue eyes.
The first thing he did was look for Greta — that much was very clear. He scanned the room and located her, locking eyes briefly. But then he physically seemed to get nervous, and look away, before wandering over to them. To be safe, he stuck by his best friend, Joel — casually glancing up at Greta with a smile.
Olivia knew this shy boy routine all too well at this point, so she initiated some conversation with people around her to get him warmed up to the small group they were currently in. She knew it would work.
And it did.
When it got to the point where she was talking with Greta, Huck, and Mikko — she made her move.
"Hey, Huck, can you come give me a second opinion on my essay? I've been meaning to ask someone," Olivia said casually.
Huck, being the romantic that he was, understood right away. And played it off well, too.
"Oh, yeah for sure! Maybe you can take a look at mine too while we're both here," Huck suggested.
"Yeah for sure. Hey, see you guys later, okay!" Olivia said, giving Mikko and Greta a wave.
They waved back and turned back to each other with a smile, continuing to talk.
Success.
Olivia and Huck discreetly high-fived as they went back to where their backpacks were.
"Niiiceee," Huck nodded.
"Thank you, you too," Olivia laughed.
"They're so cute together," Huck said. "They better make babies or I'll literally be mad."
"Same."
"Look at them!" Huck whispered, as they sat down against the wall.
Mikko was currently looking down adoringly at Greta, who must have said something funny, because he was laughing pretty hard.
When he subtly reached for her hand, and Greta smiled and intertwined their fingers as they talked — Olivia and Huck could barely hold it together.
"OhmyGodthankyouJesus!" Huck whispered excitedly.
Olivia was giggling and nodding excitedly. "Praise. Thank you."
"Where the hell is Stephen, he's missing all the romance," Huck questioned.
"He's over there with Joel. New buddies I think," Olivia said, pointing to the opposite corner.
"Aww, fun! Joel is a good guy too. And I live for his and Mikko's accents," Huck said.
"I know. They're great guys. So polite," Olivia noted.
"Seriously. All the international students make us American students seem so rude," Huck sighed. "Well...that's probably because we are rude. And...this is the East Coast."
"New York City — even worse," Olivia laughed.
"Well — you're not so bad," Huck said, patting Olivia's arm.
"Thanks, Huck," she laughed. "That means a lot. Although...I'm not a New Yorker. I'm from the Midwest. And you know what they say about the Midwest."
"Yes — it's the one thing I know about the Midwest. You guys are all nice," Huck nodded. "And you say funny shit sometimes."
"Wow, that's all you know?" Olivia asked.
"Yep. And...you guys have a lot of farms. And corn. And...snow," Huck said.
"There you go — you about summed us up," Olivia agreed. "Don't forget soybeans though."
"Oh shit, please forgive me," Huck chuckled.
"You are forgiven," Olivia said, smiling. "And hey — you're not so bad either, Huckles. Especially for an East Coast native."
Huck gasped dramatically and put his hand over his heart. "Olivia, oh my God, thank you! You pure, sweet Midwesterner, you."
Olivia rolled her eyes and laughed, nudging Huck's shoulder with her own.
They had a pretty good evening of productivity and mingling, and even some dinner with a few new friends afterward.
Meanwhile, a little further up the coast of New York, Fitz and Mellie had been having some pretty important conversations throughout the night. First, about how he'd made some calls earlier that day regarding some houses he was going to see with Karen this weekend.
And then, conversations about divorce.
And all things considered, it had been going extremely well. Both were drinking a little bit, in good spirits, and being fair and genuine as they read over some things.
Even Karen knew what they were doing, and seemed to understand and take it well.
During a homework break, she came downstairs to grab a drink of water, and had asked what they were doing, since they were sitting together on the couch looking through papers. And obviously, that had been a new occurrence for them; no wonder Karen had been curious.
So they'd told the truth; that they were discussing the future and what that might look like when they weren't married anymore.
She'd nodded and said "oh, okay," and headed upstairs, humming one of her recent piano tunes out loud.
Now, they were just about done, but discussing the matters of their family pet. The little beagle that was upstairs with their daughter right now.
"Moving would make him nervous, and it would take a long time for him to adapt. So I think if...you are okay with having him here, he should just stay here. It's what he knows, and...there's no sense in switching up his world entirely if you don't want to," Fitz said.
Mellie nodded. "I agree. Will you be sad, though?"
"Yeah," Fitz nodded. "But I will also feel better knowing his world doesn't have to change as much. You'll let me visit him from time to time, won't you?"
He smiled and she laughed, giving him a nod. "I think that can be arranged."
"Oh, wonderful," he chuckled.
"Okay. Well if you're sure you're alright with that, then that settles it," Mellie said.
"I'm alright with it," Fitz said, making note of it. "I think Karen will prefer it too. It's just...what they've both known."
"Okay. Oh. We also need to talk about the club membership," Mellie said.
"Ah, that's right," Fitz nodded.
"I've thought about it, and there's no sense in trying to split that up. You use it far more often than I do. You should just remove me from it, and...keep you and K on there," Mellie nodded.
"Oh, Mell, are you sure?" he asked.
"Yes. It will be cheaper for you, and it makes more sense than trying to coordinate a dual membership and cost and everything."
He nodded. "You're sure?"
"I'm sure," she assured him.
"Well, thanks. I do really love that course, and...the club," he said.
"I know you do. I don't want you to have to find a new club. Lord knows how much effort it takes to get into one," Mellie said.
"Yes, true," he chuckled. "Well, thanks, again."
"You're welcome, Fitz," she nodded.
"I really appreciate this," he replied.
She looked at him funny. "Fitz, it's not a big deal. It makes sense, and you're the golfer, not me. I would never...ask to keep something like that."
"No — I don't mean about the club. I just mean...in general. I appreciate that we're doing this this way. It's how I've always wanted us to do things, and I'm glad it's really happening this way."
"Oh," Mellie nodded. "Yeah. Well. At this point, there's..no reason for us not to work together to make sure this goes as smoothly as it can. For K, and...for the both of us. Neither of us need added stress with this, that's for sure."
He nodded in agreement.
"But, Fitz...this is going to be hard. Just because we're being amicable with each other right now, doesn't mean this won't be difficult. Splitting everything evenly comes with its challenges, too."
He nodded in agreement. "I know, Mell. But I know of too many guys who see their kid every other weekend because that's the custody arrangement. I can't...do that. I absolutely cannot."
"No, no. Goodness, of course not," Mellie shook her head. "That's not what I meant."
"I know. I just think...we can do it, and we can make it work well," Fitz said. "Week to week...every other holiday and birthday..."
"She's going to love that," Mellie interrupted with a laugh.
"What, switching off every year?"
"Well, I mean having two holiday celebrations and birthdays in general," she said.
"Oh, yes," he chuckled. "She's a kid. I'm sure she will."
"Designing her new room...her closet," Mellie added with a smile.
Fitz chuckled, leaning back on the couch. "God, yeah, because she knows I'll let her pick out whatever she wants."
"She absolutely knows," Mellie laughed. "She's smart. And you're a bit of a pushover, Fitzgerald."
"Yeah," he sighed. "I know."
"It's okay," Mellie nodded. "She's your baby."
He turned to her with a nod. "She's our baby."
Mellie smiled, taking a sip of wine. "Always will be."
"Always," he replied. "Even when she's...35."
Mellie cracked up. "Even then."
They smiled together, thinking about their sweet daughter.
"We clearly...don't do many things right together. But...she was the best thing we ever did," Mellie said, sighing. "And we did damn good."
He chuckled, which had her laughing too. "Yes. We did. At least we got her right."
"'At least we got her right'" Mellie quoted, leaning over in laughter.
"It's true," he chuckled, sipping his drink.
"It is true," she nodded. "That sweet, book-reading, smart little human."
"You forgot scientist-to-be," he pointed out.
"Oh, how could I forget!" Mellie agreed, a smile forming on her face. "I'm really going to miss these years, Fitz."
Fitz looked at her curiously.
"Not...necessarily you and me being together, because we know all the pain we caused each other. But just...these years of her life. When all she talks about is...books, and drawing, and Hank, and...making scientific models with her best friend. We won't get these years back, and...things are changing so much. She's growing up. I'm just...I'm going to miss it."
"I'll miss it too," he nodded solemnly. "She won't be little forever. No matter how much we wish for it not to be true...she really will be 35 one day. And...probably, seriously...a scientist."
Mellie couldn't help but laugh and nod. "Oh I know she will be. And I know it will come...sooner than later. Time flies too fast as a parent."
"Yes. It does."
"I mean, she's even been getting into my makeup now. Our daughter...will be wearing makeup soon," Mellie nodded seriously.
Fitz sighed, putting his hand to his face.
"Fuck," he whispered.
Mellie laughed. "I know!"
"She can't possibly be old enough yet. Right...?" he asked hopefully.
"She's almost 11," Mellie shrugged. "I was thinking of getting her some basic things. Just for beginners. Nothing too crazy yet."
Fitz nodded in agreement. "Yeah...okay. I guess she is...getting older."
"The real question is — what are you going to do when she needs her hair done, or wants help with her makeup — and she's at your house? What then, mister single daddy?" Mellie asked, raising an eyebrow.
Fitz's eyes got wide and he clasped his hands over his face again. That had Mellie laughing harder.
"YouTube...?" he said hopefully. "I didn't think that one through very well."
"No, you didn't. You still wanna...sign these?" Mellie teased, gesturing to their papers.
He chuckled. "Yeah. Maybe we'll have to hold up on that a second," he joked.
"I'm sure you'll figure it out," Mellie assured him. "You've at least done her hair before in a pinch."
"Yeah. If you can call a shitty ponytail 'doing her hair.' Remember when she was in...what, first grade, and she told me 'daddy, this ponytail sucks,'?" he chuckled.
"Oh my God, that's right," Mellie giggled. "Kids can be so brutally honest when they're young."
"Seriously," he agreed with a laugh.
"Just to be clear, that ponytail did suck," Mellie pointed out.
He shrugged defensively. "I tried my best, okay!"
They were both laughing, as they heard little footsteps pattering down the stairs.
Karen walked in on them laughing together, drinks in their hands, and a smile crossed her face.
"Hi mom. Hi dad."
"Hi sweet K! We were just talking about you," Mellie said.
"I know. I heard," Karen giggled.
"Oh? And what did you hear?" Fitz asked with a smile.
"That dad can't do a ponytail very well," Karen said, smiling.
Now they all three were in laughter and Fitz was astonished.
"Come on! You know dad tried his best," Fitz said.
"I know, daddy. And that's what's most important," Karen nodded.
Fitz nodded in agreement, pointing to Mellie.
"Yep, she really has grown, Mell. Now she's congratulating me on my effort, but back then, it was very brutal honestly," he chuckled.
"Sorry about that, dad," Karen apologized with a laugh.
"That's okay, baby. What's up?" Fitz asked.
"I came to make myself a snack," she said.
"Alright. What are you gonna have?"
"I think...the rest of my apple."
"Good deal," Fitz nodded.
He and Mellie went back to chatting together, while Karen snacked on her apple. And before she went upstairs again, she stopped by the bottom of the stairs, looking over at them.
They noticed, and looked back.
"What is it, K?"
She smiled at them. "Nothing. I just...I notice that since you aren't going to be married anymore, that you are happier. Like...for real happy."
They looked at each other with wide eyes and Fitz nodded slowly.
"Well, K, that's...that's because we know now that this is what we want. So yes. We are happier for real."
Mellie nodded in agreement at him.
"Good. I like it when...you laugh. I am happy you will be happier," Karen said sweetly.
Mellie and Fitz smiled at her, both feeling their hearts warm.
"Well — we are glad that you are doing okay. That's all we care about," Mellie said.
Karen smiled and nodded. "I am."
"Good."
"Will you both come up to say goodnight soon after I get ready for bed?" Karen asked.
"Absolutely," Fitz nodded.
"Mkay," she said, giving them both a happy wave and retreating upstairs.
They turned back to each other and gave each other a look that seemed to say "wow."
"She notices everything, doesn't she," Mellie noted.
"Yes. Hears everything too, I've learned," Fitz nodded.
"Good eyes, good ears. And a good heart," Mellie nodded with a smile.
"She must get all that from me," Fitz said casually.
Mellie scoffed at him. "Hey now. I thought we were starting to become...actual friends."
He chuckled. "Oh, we are now? I was under the impression you were the one saying that would never happen?"
She shrugged. "We'll see. All I know is...K's right. I already feel...more free. Free from pretending and from...that joke we carried on too long. Seeing Karen be understanding and...happy, even...it's helped me so much. Helped me see clearly what I didn't before."
Fitz nodded in agreement. "I'm really glad, Mell."
"It's crazy how much...strain we put on ourselves. On our relationship. Me more so than you, I'll admit that. But so much of that strain just feels lifted," she admitted. "I'm just sorry I didn't know how to eliminate that before now. I'm sorry it took so long to see."
"It's understandable. It's crazy how blinded you can be, when...doing something for someone you love. We were...really blinded."
"Yes. And I'm really glad...we aren't anymore."
He looked at her with a nod and smile.
"Me too."
Happy reading.
I love forward progression, even if it comes with a little arguing sometimes. It happens!
Hope you all enjoyed.
Stay safe and read on,
~T