"Okay, baby. You want to hand me those tongs over there?" Fitz asked, pointing to them.
"Yes, sure," Karen nodded, reaching for them.
Fitz thanked his daughter, using them to flip the chicken he currently had sautéeing in the pan.
"Daddy, is this going to be like the chicken we made for mom's Mother's Day lunch?"
"Sort of," he nodded. "But we're using different spices for this chicken."
"Ohhh, okay," Karen nodded. "You're such a good cook, dad."
He smiled, looking over at his little mini-me, wearing an apron and everything tonight. They were cooking for his birthday, currently, because that's what he'd wanted to do. Karen and Mellie had gotten all the ingredients earlier at the store, and now he and his daughter were making dinner together. Not much more he would ever ask for.
Except for maybe Olivia to be a part of it. But seeing as though that wasn't an option, he had to be grateful for this.
"Well thank you, sweetie. You're a pretty good cook, yourself," he nodded.
"That's right. And you certainly don't get it from me," Mellie said from the island, making Karen giggle.
"That's okay, mom. When dad moves to his new house, I will just cook dinner for us when I'm here if you want," she offered.
"Oh, well thank goodness," Mellie laughed. Fitz couldn't help but chuckle at that one too.
Yeah, thinking of Karen making dinner, with supervision of course, was just as likely as Mellie making dinner for the two of them, probably. Just wasn't exactly one of Mellie's strong suits.
"And I can bake you any cake you want," Karen added. "I am a better baker than a chef. Baking is a science, you know."
That also made her parents chuckle.
"Well, I really appreciate that, K," Mellie laughed. "I look forward to your famous cakes!"
"Me too. I'm also pretty excited for my birthday cake tonight," Fitz nodded.
"Ohhh, as am I," Mellie agreed.
"Yes! But...just to warn you, dad. I wasn't sure if we could fit 31 candles on the cake, so mom and I just got a three candle and a one candle," Karen admitted.
Fitz chuckled and groaned. "Oh no. I'm getting to the point where my age in individual candles doesn't fit on a cake, huh?"
"Yep. Get used to it. 31 isn't as nice as 30, I'm going to be honest with you," Mellie said, sipping her wine.
"Yeah," he agreed. "We're getting old, Mell."
Karen smiled at her parents, looking back and forth between them so happily. Their friendship had only grown stronger as time had gone on, and Karen had noticed. Not only noticed, but really loved it.
It had admittedly been better between everyone for months now. It was common knowledge that things were just...good. Fitz even foresaw them being just as good of friends when he moved out. They'd still see each other often, having a daughter together, so that wouldn't have any effect.
It was really nice. Neither would ever get over how much better life had been recently — at least in that aspect.
As for other things...they were okay.
Fitz was just about to start a new medication. That was a plus, depending on how he looked at it. He grew closer and closer to moving out, which was also a plus. It was almost officially summer, which was nice. He'd seen his mom pretty often lately, after a visit to see the gardens at her house, and then Mother's Day, of course. And seeing her was always a joy. Work had been okay — not overly stressful the past couple of weeks. He'd had drinks with Abby and David last week — also nice.
All of that should have had him in a pretty decent mood.
But something had still been missing for almost two weeks now.
The woman he loved.
And today, on his birthday, he had to admit, it hurt a little extra. Just like it would hurt extra on her birthday, too, or when he moved into his new house. Days he especially would love to be with her in person.
But, he had to push that aside, because he couldn't change it, and that's just how it was. And, he still wanted to focus on who was here, spending time with him.
So, that's what he planned to do. He still had a lot to be grateful for.
Cooking with his daughter was a good reminder of that.
They made chicken fajita bowls for dinner — one of Fitz's favorites. It was pretty damn good, too.
And after dinner, Fitz was under the impression they'd open his gifts, and have some cake. But he was unaware of the whole plan.
Because when he was least expecting it, there was a knock at the door. Which, of course, was followed by Hank barking up a storm at the sound.
"Hey, hey. Shh," Fitz said, getting up from the chair in the living room.
He looked at Mellie confusedly.
"Seems too late for a package," he wondered.
"Well, I did order those new throw pillow covers a few days ago. I thought they may come today," Mellie shrugged.
She had him completely believing that one. Those Amazon Prime trucks could come later in the day sometimes — that was true.
So he fully expected to open the door to one package on the step. But that was not what he saw.
In actuality, he opened the door to his dearest loved ones; Abby and David, and his sweet mother. They all yelled "Happy Birthday!" the second he opened the door.
He jumped a little in surprise, and a smile immediately covered his face.
"Oh — shit!" he chuckled, opening the door wider. "Thank you! You guys aren't...throw pillow covers?"
"Huh?" David laughed.
"Ha! That was pretty good, wasn't it?" Mellie yelled.
"Yeah, that was good. Wow, my God. Thank you, you guys. Come...come on in!" he chuckled, opening the front door wider.
They all piled in, greeting the birthday boy with hugs.
"By the way, daddy. That was a bad word!" Karen yelled out.
"Yeah. Bad word, daddy," David winked.
"Gross," Abby whispered, hugging Fitz tightly.
Fitz chuckled. "Hi, Abbs. What is this?"
"Your birthday present. Drink up, old man," she said, handing him a bottle of scotch.
A nice bottle of scotch. And since he didn't drink as often anymore — this would last him a nice long time. Wonderful.
He read the label with a smile and nodded in approval. "Thank you. I will definitely get some use out of this."
"We know your scotch of choice," Abby nodded, gesturing to her and David.
"Just drink it wisely, Fitzgerald, huh?" Jean asked, opening her arms wide for a hug.
Fitz chuckled, wrapping his mother in a big hug.
"Always. Hi mom," he said, kissing her cheek.
"Hi, my boy. Oh, it's so good to see you on your birthday," she said, hugging him tightly.
"It's great to see you all, too," he said happily. "Although...I didn't know this would happen! Who planned this?"
"Well, I coordinated with Mellie," Abby nodded. "She and Karen agreed it would be a good idea for a surprise today."
Fitz's eyes widened. Mellie coordinating with Abby? The woman she used to despise?
Now that was something.
"And of course, that meant bringing your favorite golf partner, and your wonderful mother, too," Abby nodded.
"Of course. Since I'm a cool mom," Jean agreed. "Isn't that right, Karen?!"
"Yeah! She's a cool mom. And grandma," Karen yelled. Jean was nodding seriously in agreement, and they were all getting a good laugh.
Fitz chuckled, shaking his head.
"Well, I can't disagree with that one. Thank you for coming, mom. Thank you all for coming," he said, smiling. "You guys...want some cake? We were just about to have some before I...knew of these plans."
"Only reason I came," David teased, nudging Fitz. "Other than to see...miss Karen."
Karen could be audibly heard giggling in the living room.
"Yeah, come on in, guys," Fitz nodded, gesturing for them to follow.
Karen was waiting in the living room so patiently — letting her dad greet everyone, of course, since it was his birthday surprise. But she was quick to greet everyone with a big hug as soon as they entered the living room.
She loved Abby and David, so she let out a squeal when they both brought her in for a hug. As for her grandma — she couldn't be happier to see her.
Even Mellie seemed happy to greet the guests. She always greeted Fitz's mom with nothing but cheer. But Abby was usually a different story. Apparently, that was another area in which she was showing some growth.
It was enjoyable. Very enjoyable.
They had cake, and he opened up a few other presents too. Mellie and Karen got him a new driver for his golf game — which he'd desperately wanted. His mom got him a new golf glove, which he also was in need of, and a few new books. And he had a small glass of his birthday present from Abby and David — that amazing scotch.
And he had one more present to open. He'd gotten it in the mail earlier that day, but had promised he wouldn't open it until later, when he was on FaceTime. Because it was from Olivia. And she wanted to see him open it.
He wondered how he was going to do that tonight, now that he had surprise guests over.
But since it was a work night, Abby and David did head back home before it got too late. His mom, however, was going to spend the night. And since she usually slept in the basement, that meant he got to spend a little more time with her, as he also slept in the basement.
So, as everyone started heading to bed, Fitz thanked everyone again profusely for the great birthday surprise, and headed downstairs with his mother trailing behind him.
When he flipped the light on, he smiled as he saw the package he'd left on the couch — he'd brought it downstairs quickly earlier that day. He wasn't thinking anyone else was going to see it, obviously, since he hadn't foreseen these surprise visits.
But he found himself blushing as he grabbed it and brought it to his room. His mother, while insanely sweet, would probably ask him a million questions if she saw who it was from.
He thought maybe she wouldn't think anything of it if he was casual and quick enough — but she noticed immediately.
"Oh, well what'd you order there, son?" she asked.
Damn. Almost had it.
"Uh, I...didn't. It's from...Olivia," he said, feeling his cheeks burn red.
The fact that she wasn't even here, and just the mention of her to his mother had him blushing this hard — spoke to how much he missed her.
"Oh is it now?" Jean asked, extremely intrigued.
"Mhm," he nodded, pausing awkwardly next to his room.
"How come you haven't opened it yet?" She asked.
"Um. Well I promised I'd...open it on FaceTime with her tonight," he explained.
Jean put her hand to her heart and looked at her son with a smile.
"Oh, Fitzgerald. My sweet boy. You're so thoughtful!" she said.
He just shrugged and chuckled, setting the package in his room.
"Nooo, no. Don't shrug it away. It's important, my boy. There are a lot of people who could learn a lot from you," Jean nodded.
He chuckled, scratching his head as he walked back to her. "Well, thanks, mom."
"You're welcome. But aren't you going to go call her?" she asked, sitting on the couch.
He sat down next to her and nodded.
"Yeah, I'll call her in a bit," he nodded.
She gasped. "Well don't let me keep you from her! I know you didn't expect any surprises tonight — by all means, son, go ahead."
"No, mom, it's okay," he said. "Livvie will understand. She loves you."
She gave him a suspicious look, but then smirked and nodded.
"It's Livvie, is it?" she teased, giving him a big smile.
A soft smile covered his face as he looked down at his lap, blushing.
"Yeah. To me it is, yeah," he said softly.
Jean looked at him thoughtfully, before patting his leg.
"I'm so happy for you, dear," she said quietly.
He smiled. "You mean...about Olivia? Or just...moving on in general?"
"Well, all of it in general, yes, of course. But...I did mean her, specifically," Jean replied. "You're just...so much happier. I see it in you. I hear it in your voice on the phone. I...swear, I feel it. I just...have never quite seen your eyes so bright, and your smile so big. And I know a lot of that is...because of her."
He nodded and the smile on his face grew a little bit.
"She's..." he began, sighing contently. "She and Karen? They're...my life. And Olivia is...well. She's just everything."
Even Jean began to blush now, hearing her son talk about someone this way. She nudged his shoulder in a teasing, happy manner, and he chuckled.
"Yeah. I know. Cheesy, huh," he nodded.
"Absolutely not," she shook her head. "Son, I've never heard you talk about anyone this way. And in fact, I'd like you to keep talking. Tell me more! Because this is new to your mother. And I like it — it makes me happy. And, I must say, you're not one to share much in general. Ever. So...I would love if you kept sharing with me."
He chuckled embarrassedly, running his fingers through his hair.
And he shrugged, not knowing what else to talk about. Where to even begin. He could talk about her for hours, probably. That just wasn't really his style — but he took a stab at it.
"Well...I guess now I...understand. I understand how you feel about dad. I get the way you feel and talk about him, even as if he's still here after all this time. I understand that...love, that you feel," he began.
Jean gave him a soft smile, thinking about Gerry. Their beloved husband and father.
"Because I just know that...in thirty...forty...I don't know — sixty years. I'm still going to feel this way about her, too. I just...know that. I don't know how, but I do. I just have never loved someone...so hard before. And I never will again. She's it. How dad was for you — your one and only, you say. That's...that's her for me," he said. "I may have...messed up a little on the way, marrying Mellie. But...I found her now. And she's it."
Jean had never looked so deep in thought, and so happy before. So he kept going.
"And...and it's more than just how I feel, too. It's the way...she feels. That's still new to me, and...I'm never going to get over that," he admitted. "I can still barely get over the way she looks at me, and it's almost been a year. That look will always get me."
"Ahhh," Jean chuckled. "Yes. That look in her eyes. The one I recognized within ten minutes of knowing her."
"Yeah," he chuckled. "It obviously took me longer than it took you to...see it, apparently. Because...I'm a man, right?"
"Yes. Because you're a man," Jean laughed, patting his leg.
"Yeah. But...it's amazing. She's...amazing. And supportive. And loving, and...perfect. She's just perfect, mom."
Jean looked sweetly at him and then down at her lap, but the smile then started to fade. And then she almost looked like she could cry.
"Oh, Fitzgerald," she whispered, her lip starting to tremble.
He grew worried and leaned toward her.
"Oh, mom. What's...what's wrong? Did I say something?" he asked.
"Yes. You did. And I loved every word," she sniffled quietly. "You always say such beautiful things. You're so sweet, just like your father."
"Ohh, mom," he chuckled quietly, pulling her in for a hug. "You scared me there. I didn't mean...Lord. I'm always seeming to make women cry these days. Unintentionally...I mean."
She laughed, wiping her damp eyes.
"Who else are you making cry?"
"Olivia. I mean...happy tears, not...not sad ones. But I didn't mean to. I was just talking. Talking about...her, and how she made me feel. And it seemed to...have this same exact effect."
Jean could only laugh again, patting her son's back.
"Well. That's what you'll get when you have such nice, genuine things to say, Fitz," she said. "And that's all you ever have to say — nice things. I'm just...so proud that you're my boy, Fitzgerald."
"Oh, mom," he chuckled, hugging her tightly. "Thank you. I didn't expect you to...flatter me so much on my birthday."
"Well, I'm just being honest," she exclaimed. "31 years ago was the best day of my life. You can let your mother be a little mushy today, can't you?"
"Yes. I can," he chuckled. "I love you."
"Oh, I love you too, Fitzgerald," she said, leaning her head on his arm. "So much."
"I am getting a little old though. Not sure how I feel about that," he said quietly.
His mother giggled and a big smile spread across her face.
"Oh, you're getting old? No. No way. Because that means your mother is old — and she sure as hell is not."
"Ahh, right. Right," he chuckled. "Apologies."
"But...speaking of. I did mean to ask about that," she said cautiously.
"What?"
"Your age. And how that...affects certain things in your life," she said.
He understood immediately and nodded. She was asking about his relationship, specifically.
"Well. I'll tell you that...it doesn't affect us until...it does," he said. "It's not often that we really...think about it, or notice it I guess. I know that probably sounds weird, but...we forget about it a lot."
"That doesn't sound weird. I can understand that," Jean nodded. "By the way she acts and carries herself, you'd think she was your age."
"Yeah, tell me about it", he chuckled. "But...yes. Naturally, it's posed a few issues on occasion. Mostly just...the fact that we're in such different stages."
"Yes. That's...what I assumed. It's not my business, and I've never wanted to prod about it. And...some things don't matter, son. Sometimes...nothing can get in the way of what's meant to happen. And I'd say this is one of those times."
He nodded in agreement. "Yeah. It's, uh. Well, it's definitely not something I would have foreseen coming when...I met her. Obviously. For...so many reasons. But...it just happened, and...we wouldn't have it any other way now. Age gap. Different states. Whatever. Nothing has ever...deterred us for very long. Even...my marriage, clearly," he said, flashing her a guilt-ridden face.
"Well, I think you're a little too hard on yourself about that," Jean said.
"About the...choice I made?" he asked.
"Yes. I understand the guilt. I do. But your marriage hasn't been a marriage, son. We can all admit that. She could have just as easily done the same thing. And she didn't, and that's very respectable. Obviously, you could have done things differently, or waited. And I know you wish you had. But this wasn't a happy marriage. This was not built on love. Those things were common knowledge among you both, for ten years. So I understand the guilt, and you can feel that to an extent. You can take what you did seriously, and you absolutely should. But just don't let it take you over. It's just not worth that, my boy."
He nodded in agreement.
"You know I've always got you. You know you're my number one in this world. So no matter what...you know I'm going to support you with everything in me," she said. "No matter what."
He smiled at his mother and nodded. "Yeah. I know, mom. Thank you."
"You're welcome, Fitz. Now, back to our original discussion. This is just so exciting for me to hear you talk more about her!" she exclaimed, which had him chuckling. "You never really did tell me...how things were when you met. You said you couldn't have foreseen it, but how come? It seems...you've been interested in each other from the start?"
"Well. I mean...yes. Yes, we were. Right from...the beginning. We just didn't admit it. But we went into the city together every day. Got to know each other. We worked out together. She...she gave me a nickname. I loaned her books. We just...really became friends quickly. But I definitely did not think...anything would ever...could ever happen."
"You loaned her books, son? And she gave you a nickname? What's that?" she asked.
"Yes," he chuckled. "It was...smiley. Or — is. She still calls me that."
"Well, isn't that just darling! Oh goodness. You are pretty smiley, aren't you!"
He shrugged and chuckled. "She thinks so."
"She's right, you are smiley. And it's very contagious, too," his mother pointed out.
"So I've been told," he chuckled.
"Well, I can't tell you enough how happy this all makes me, Fitz. I really can't. A relationship like this is what you deserve," Jean said.
"Thanks, mom."
"Mhm. Now, I will really let you go call her, because I'm pretty sleepy. All that delicious cake did me in!"
"Well, I understand that. I'm getting tired too," he nodded. "Here, I'll bring your bag to your favorite room."
"Oh, nonsense, Fitzgerald. I —"
He'd already grabbed it for her from the floor, slinging it over his shoulder.
"I'm not sure why you and Liv try to fight me on this every time," he chuckled. "As if I will ever let either of you carry your bags when I'm with you," he said.
"Oh, you!" she sighed, following behind him. "Thank you, son."
"Mhm," he nodded.
He got her all set up in her room, the one down the hall from his in the basement. They chatted about what time they'd both be off in the morning — him to work, and her back home. And of course, he thanked her for the wonderful night.
"Thanks for coming, mom. I appreciate it. As well as my books, and golf glove," he nodded, hugging his tiny mother.
"Oh, it's no problem, dear. I'm so happy I could come. It's such a treat to see you on your birthday! And I'll see you tomorrow morning, too."
"Sounds good. I'll have coffee waiting for you," he assured her.
"Oh, well that sounds just wonderful. You sleep well now," she said.
"You too, mom. Goodnight."
"Goodnight, Fitz," she said.
He headed to his own room and changed. He allowed his mother to use the bathroom to get ready for bed first, before going to use it himself.
And when he was comfortably laying in bed, he gave Olivia a FaceTime call. He had his package next to him — ready to be opened on camera.
She must have been ready too, because it didn't take her long to answer. She, too, was laying in her bed.
"Happy birthday again, birthday boy!" she exclaimed upon answering. They'd already had a brief call this morning — simply because she wanted to sing to him. But he'd take the extra birthday wishes. It was cute.
"Thank you, Livvie," he chuckled.
"How are you, you cutie?!" she asked.
"I'm good. I'm really good. I had a couple surprise visits tonight after we made dinner. Abby, David, and my mom came over for cake and presents," he informed her.
"Aww! That's so sweet!" Olivia said.
"Yeah. I guess they all coordinated with Karen and Mellie. It was nice of them all. My mom is still here, sleeping just down the hall, so that's why I'm...whispering," he laughed.
"Oh! Well...is this okay? I don't want you to feel like you may wake her up," Olivia said.
"No, it's okay. I've got a fan going in here, and she's down the hall a bit, anyway. I couldn't wait to talk to you again, and it's my birthday. So I'm talking to you," he nodded.
"Damn right it's your birthday," she smiled. "Do you have your present?"
"I do. It's...right here," he replied, showing her the package in the dark. It was kind of an awkward size.
Decently big, but skinny in width. It seemed like it could be some sort of...piece of art?
"Should I open it, baby?" he asked.
"Yes!" she nodded. "I've been so excited for you to!"
"Me too. Alright. Here I go."
After ripping open the packaging tape, he was met with some bubble wrap on the inside. But he was able to get a firm grip on whatever was in there, and pull it out.
And he wasn't able to see what exactly he pulled out until the bubble wrap was off. Olivia watched with a smile, as he began to understand.
It was a poster in an absolutely beautiful frame. A poster of an enlarged classic novel cover.
Jane Eyre. The same edition that he loaned to her, and confessed his feelings to her in.
"Oh my...God, Liv," he said, studying it carefully in awe.
"I keep my 'Jane Eyre' book by my bed at all times — it means so much to me. And I thought...you should be reminded too. Of how...we decided we were going to do this," she said, softly smiling at him.
"Liv," he said again, his smile growing. "This is amazing. So amazing, baby."
"Yeah?" she smiled.
"Yeah. Thank you. I will hang it up somewhere where I'll see it every day. This is...wow. Thank you, Liv."
"You're so welcome, honey," she replied. "I'm so glad you like it. I just thought...it was so perfect."
"It is perfect. This is...this will make me think of you every time. You are very thoughtful," he said appreciatively.
"Aww, baby. Well, that was my goal. I can't wait to see where you hang it!" she said.
"Yeah, I'll have to think about that. Either...somewhere in the new house, or my office," he nodded.
"Ooo, decisions, decisions!" she exclaimed.
"I know! This is amazing. Thank you again, Liv. You didn't need to get me any sort of present — you're already the best gift I could ask for. But I really appreciate it, and I love it," he said.
Her heart warmed. "Oh, baby. You're welcome! I love my birthday boy so much."
"I love you so much. And...and I miss you so much," he said. "So much."
"I miss you, baby," she whispered back, blowing him a kiss over the phone. "I'm just grateful we got to call each other a couple times today."
"Yes. Me too," he agreed. "I know I'm being greedy. I just wish it was more than a call."
"Oh, I know. I know you totally wish I could have been there to give you a birthday handy," she whispered.
His eyes grew wide and he started to blush, shaking his head with a chuckle.
"That's...that's not what I meant. I mean — well, that would be...I mean I would take that. Absolutely. But I didn't mean..." he stumbled, laughing along with her.
"I know you didn't, honey," she giggled. "I was just teasing. Kind of. Because...I wish I could be there to give you a birthday handy too. And probably a few other things."
"Yeah? So...what would those other things be?" he inquired.
She laughed. "I'd go into detail, but I don't want to get you too riled up with your mom just down the hall."
"True," he chuckled. "Yeah. You...you have a point there. Another time?"
"Another time," she giggled. "For now, I guess I could flash you quick."
"Well...I'm never going to turn that down," he nodded. "Yes. Uh...absolutely. I'm ready."
She laughed, lifting up her tank top. She wasn't wearing anything underneath — he'd already been able to see that before. Her nipples had shown through a little bit, and the tank top was white.
But now, with her entire tank top lifted up, he got an even better view.
"Mhm," he nodded quietly, analyzing her breasts. "Yeah. I appreciate this."
"You wanna appreciate a little longer, or are you good?" she laughed.
"I think...like, ten more seconds and I'll be good, probably," he replied.
"Whatever you want birthday boy," she replied with a laugh.
She fulfilled his ten seconds and more.
"Okay. Thanks, Liv. That was fun," he nodded quietly.
"Oh, extremely fun," she laughed. "Now...I do expect to get flashed on my birthday as well, smiley."
"I think that can be arranged," he chuckled. "These are the things we resort to, when we're...over a thousand miles apart. Calls. Texts. And now...flashing."
"Oh, don't forget Snapchat. And...That one thing we did last week."
His cheeks flushed. "Don't get me started on what we did last week."
"Why, because you're already blushing?" she smirked.
He chuckled lightly, covering his face from her. That just had her laughing more.
"Oh, baby. How you still get shy sometimes after all of the things you've done to me is a mystery," she wondered aloud.
Now he blushed harder, and laughed embarrassedly.
"You are so cute, birthday boy," she whispered, smiling at him.
"You are," he whispered back.
She sighed, looking adoringly at him. With that look of hers.
"I'm sorry I missed today, honey. I'm really, really sorry," she said.
"Don't be, Livvie," he shook his head. "I'm sorry I will miss yours, too. I wish it didn't have to be that way."
"Me too," she nodded. "But I do look forward to our triple belated birthday celebration when I come back."
"Oh, right. Me too," he chuckled. "And so is Karen. I think she's already mentioned it twice since I suggested it."
"Well, good! It should be a good time. Do you think by then...you'll have told her about us?" Olivia asked curiously.
"Yes. I...think so. My plan is to sit down with her, just her and me, and talk about it. Mellie wants nothing to do with it, and...I don't blame her for that. So. I hoped to tell her this summer so she has time to process before you come back."
Olivia nodded. "Any chance...she knows already?"
He sighed, shrugging. "I don't...I don't know. I don't know how she thinks. She does like to bring you up in conversation a lot to me. I'm not sure...if that means anything, but she certainly is aware that we're...close friends, at least, or else she wouldn't bring you up so much."
"Close...friends. Right," she nodded slowly.
"Right..." he said, a slow smile forming on his face.
"A close friend that I...casually show my boobs to," she nodded.
He burst into quiet laughter, and she followed.
"Yeah, we can...I'm gonna leave out that part when I tell her, I think," he laughed, shaking his head.
"Please," Olivia agreed.
"Uh. But...but I would like to continue seeing your boobs, though," he said.
"Got it. Thanks for clarifying that, baby," she giggled.
"No problem. I'm glad...you know, that we're on the same page," he chuckled.
"How about tomorrow night, when...your mother is no longer sleeping on the same floor as you, you can see a little more than that?" she suggested with a smirk.
"Oooo," he chuckled. "Another birthday gift, huh?"
She shrugged. "What can I say? I gotta spoil my man for his birthday. Even from afar."
He smiled and nodded. "I...very much like that plan. And...you spoil me every day already. Even without...boobs and more."
She was in a fit of laughter, shaking her head at him.
"You spoil me just by being mine," he said.
She looked at him thoughtfully and sighed.
"Forever, baby," she whispered. "Forever."
He sighed now too, looking at her longingly through the screen.
"I miss you, Olivia," he whispered.
She gave him a sad look. "I miss you too, Fitz. So much. So much it's...insane."
He nodded. "I'm so happy you get to be with your mom. And your friends. I'm so happy knowing...that's making you happy right now. But I can't help that it also makes me sad. Because I just miss you a lot."
"Me too. It's been tough so far. I'm not going to lie," she admitted. "I am happy, getting to be with everyone back home again. But...it's been really hard. I have to sleep in one of your shirts just to feel...like you're still with me."
His face softened and he smiled. "Well that's...super fucking cute."
Her heart melted and she laughed. "I'm glad you think so. I was thinking it was maybe a tad bit pathetic."
"No way. In fact, ship me one of your shirts in the mail. I'll...I'll wear it to sleep too," he shrugged casually.
That had her rolling in laughter.
"Oh my God, I'm picturing how tight one of my shirts would be on you," she laughed.
"Uh-huh. Now imagine one of your shorter ones. Like, the...the cropped ones or whatever," he nodded.
"I would pay money to see that baby. I think you would rock a crop top," she giggled.
"Thank you, Liv. That means...that means so much to me," he nodded seriously.
"I love you so much you goofball," she smiled.
"I love you, too," he said. "More and more every day."
"You and me both," she whispered.
He sighed, feeling his eyes droop more by the minute. He didn't want to hang up. But he was tired.
"Well, baby, I think I'm going to go to sleep. It's been a long week so far. But...I'll call you tomorrow like normal, okay?" he asked.
"Okay, baby. That sounds good," she nodded. "Sleep well tonight, okay?"
"You too, Livvie. I love you," he whispered.
"I love you. Happy birthday, my smiley," she whispered back.
He smiled. "Thank you. Goodnight."
"Goodnight."
"Well, good morning there, sleepyhead!" Jean exclaimed, standing by the bathroom door.
It was 5:15 on a Thursday morning. He'd just gone upstairs to eat some oatmeal and start the coffee maker before his workout. His normal morning routine.
And here he was, walking back down the dark hallway, currently half-clothed, rubbing his eyes and probably almost running into the wall.
And while his mother didn't have to work — he did. And he was exactly what she'd described him as. A sleepyhead.
He chuckled lightly, continuing to rub his eyes.
"Good morning, mom."
"Off to your workout, I see?"
"Mhm," he nodded. "I hope I didn't wake you."
"Oh, no, you didn't! You know me. Early riser. But I slept wonderfully!"
"Yes, I have always been extremely jealous of your ability to sleep well through the night, wake up in the early hours of the morning and be good to go," he laughed.
She looked at him sadly. "Still having sleep troubles, my boy?"
He shrugged. "Certainly not new ones. Just the...normal ones. But I think this new medication I'm starting soon is known to help with sleep. So that's good."
"Oh, that is good, Fitz! Well — I won't keep you. You go on and do your workout now. Just not too hard, okay? You are plenty fit as you are!" she exclaimed, patting his bicep. "You look wonderful. Don't work yourself too hard!"
"Alright, mother. I promise," he chuckled, heading past her toward the home gym. "Coffee's on upstairs — should be ready soon for you."
"Delightful. Thank you!"
He nodded and gave her a smile, before shutting the door.
Oh his dear, protective mother. Always a pleasure. Though, he didn't think he quite had her cheeriness and chattiness at five in the morning. But, that was just how she was, and he loved that.
And despite his mother's warning, he did work out hard. Like he always did. He was practically dripping with sweat when he got done and headed to shower.
He currently had his dress clothes all over the place; some were downstairs in his room, some were still upstairs in the master closet, and some were here and there in between — awaiting the dry cleaners or perhaps packed away for the move, if he didn't wear it very often.
But, luckily, he had one of his favorite suits, fresh from the dry cleaners, hanging in his downstairs closet, along with a light pink dress shirt. So, he got dressed and ready, and did his hair. He was going to need to chop his hair pretty soon — it was just getting too hot for the long, unruly curls. Hopefully Olivia would forgive him.
He came upstairs to the smell of coffee, and saw his mother in the kitchen reading a book.
Wonder where he got that from.
"Oh, Fitzgerald! Hello. Are you headed out?" she asked.
"Yeah, pretty quick here," he nodded. "You want breakfast? I can make you some before I go."
"No, that's quite alright. I promised Karen last night that she and I would make some pancakes before she left for school," Jean said, flipping the page with a smile.
"Ahhh, well that's a great idea!" he nodded, pouring himself a cup of coffee. He could have one small cup before he left.
"So, son. Tell me. What did your girlfriend get you for your birthday?" Jean asked quietly, leaning forward with excitement.
He chuckled. "Uh. Well. It's probably not going to make a lot of sense to you. But...she got me a framed poster of the 'Jane Eyre' cover. It's got...it's got meaning for us."
"Well, even without the context that's such a nice gift! You love your books and so does she. I think it's very sweet. And you shared plenty with me last night — I'll let you keep the backstory between you and Olivia. Though, I'm sure it's a very beautiful story," Jean smiled.
He smiled back and nodded in agreement. "Yeah. Well. I'll just tell you that it...it was kind of how we decided we were going to really go for it together. There's...a lot more to the story. But let's just say, without that book, I don't know how things would have gone."
As he thought about how meaningful the novel really was, he could still vividly picture his sweaty, shaky hand inscribing the words "I'm in love with you" on the very last page. Man, his heart raced just thinking about it.
"Well isn't that nice. And so fitting for two book-lovers! I'm sure it was quite romantic, however the book was involved," she said happily.
He felt his cheeks get hot with embarrassment and he laughed quietly.
"I don't...I don't know. I tried."
"And clearly you succeeded! Your father was the same way. Us ladies love it, you know. I see you blushing like you're embarrassed right now, but you keep it up, my boy. It's very sweet!" Jean nodded.
"Thanks, mom. I will keep that in mind," he laughed, taking a sip of his coffee.
"Well thank you for telling me about your gift, Fitz. I never want to prod too much. But I do love hearing about these things, you know me. And I love hearing about anything that makes your cheeks the shade of my shirt right now," Jean teased.
Fitz glanced at her shirt. It was, of course, a bright pink color. Classic.
"Ha. Funny, mom," he replied, shaking his head.
Jean had a good laugh after that one. "Oh, dear. And I must say. Olivia is quite thoughtful. What a nice, meaningful gift."
"What about Olivia?" Karen asked, skipping down the stairs.
She was still in her pajamas, with a big smile on her face as she came over to Fitz.
Of course the name Olivia had stuck out to her. Because when didn't she hear everything?!
Fitz gasped, opening his arms for her.
"Well, hi there sweet girl. Not often I see you up this early!" he said, lifting her up.
She giggled, leaning into him in a hug as he pecked her cheek, and then set her back down.
"I know! Grandma and I are making pancakes before school, so I was too excited to sleep in any more," she shrugged, heading over to Jean.
"You got it, dear!" Jean exclaimed, opening her arms for a side hug.
"Grandma," Karen said, leaning in for a hug with a smile.
"Oh, hello my sweet Karen. How did you sleep? Huh?" Jean asked, kissing her forehead.
"I slept really good," Karen nodded confidently.
Hank came trotting over at the sound of Karen's voice — excited to see his favorite girl this early in the morning.
"Oh, hi, my Hank!" Karen giggled.
"Why don't you feed your pup before you make pancakes, okay?" Fitz asked.
"Okay, daddy," she nodded, sliding out of the kitchen stool. "So...what about Olivia?"
He thought he'd dodged that question. Clearly not.
"Oh, I was just...telling grandma about her," Fitz nodded.
He had been gradually trying to go for as honest as possible, considering he really did want to tell her the truth soon. And lying every time she came up wasn't exactly a nice thought to him.
"Oh. Well, you know Olivia don't you, grandma? She's the best," Karen said happily, grabbing Hank's food dish.
"I do know her, but I can't wait to get to know her even better in the future. She sure seems like the best!" Jean nodded.
Thank you, mother, he thought.
"Yeah. It was sad when she had to go. But she'll be back. And guess what we're gonna do when she gets back?" Karen asked.
"What's that?" Jean asked excitedly.
"We're going to have a triple birthday celebration. For daddy's birthday, mine, and hers too," Karen replied importantly. "Since we can't spend them all together on our actual birthdays."
"My, my, well that just sounds delightful, doesn't it?! So when is Olivia's birthday?" Jean asked.
"Um...it's...I know it's in July. Dad, when exactly is it again?" Karen asked.
"July 31st," he answered.
"Oh yeah!" Karen nodded. "I knew you would know!"
"Well, I think that triple celebration will need a nice, big cake, huh?" Jean smirked.
"Ooooh, yes!" Karen exclaimed. "Dad. We have to get a big one."
"Alright, I think we can make that happen," he chuckled, finishing his coffee.
He put his cup in the dishwasher and looked around to make sure he had his phone and wallet.
"Awww, daddy do you have to go to work now?" Karen asked, setting Hank's food down for him.
"I do, sadly," he nodded, readjusting his briefcase. "But, before I go, I'm definitely...in need of one more hug and kiss."
Karen giggled and came back toward Fitz after having fed Hank, who was now happily eating his breakfast.
"Bye, dad."
"Bye, miss K," he said, hugging her tightly.
He tapped his cheek and she gave him a kiss.
"I'll see you tonight. Have a good day at school. And have fun making pancakes," he said.
"I will! See you tonight, daddy."
"Bye, mom," Fitz said, watching his mom walk toward him with open arms.
"Oh, bye now, son," she said, leaning into his body.
He wrapped his arms around his mother and patted her back softly.
"Thank you for your birthday surprise, and your gifts. I had a very great birthday," he said.
"I'm so glad to hear it. You deserve the best!" she exclaimed, pulling back to look at him.
She patted his cheeks and smiled at him. "I love you, my boy."
"I love you," he replied, kissing her cheek.
"I'm sure I'll see you again soon."
"Absolutely!"
"Say bye to mom for me, okay? See you later," he said to Karen.
"I will. Bye!"
He gave them one last wave, grabbed his keys, and was off to the station to catch his train.
Meanwhile, on the other end of the country in North Dakota, Olivia was just now waking up. And when she did, she awoke to a good morning text from her boyfriend. She smiled, texting him back.
Olivia: Good morning, baby! I hope you have a great day. Can't wait to hear your voice later. Love you lots.
And then, she began her morning routine. Got up, got ready for her run, and then was off. She hadn't begun refereeing yet, but she was already in the midst of her routine of working long hours at the restaurant.
It wasn't like she had anything else to do, and she was excited to save a ton of money this summer. It would be a lot of work, and there would definitely be days she regretted it, but it would be worth it, in the end, to live at home for free — and make as much as she would.
And of course, part of her daily routine did still include a workout, since she'd gotten so used to having that in her schedule while away at school. She definitely didn't want to break that good habit.
She would run to the community center, which was about two miles, and then shoot around in the gym for a while, and then run back. It proved to be quite a nice workout, actually. Plus, a little bit necessary, considering she didn't have her own car.
And later, Shawn would pick her up and drop her off at work — before heading to work herself. Shawn, though, worked at the waterpark as head lifeguard. She had quite the nice gig herself planned there for the summer.
So, as usual these days, Olivia prepared for another long, summer day.
Later that night, after working the rest of her day at the restaurant, she got to settle down with her mom for a very late dinner.
She honestly just couldn't wait to go to bed. And of course, FaceTime her guy first.
"Tired, baby?" Marie asked.
Olivia nodded with a yawn, scooping some more green beans onto her plate.
"Yeah. You?"
"Mmhm. Today felt longer than normal," Marie nodded. "Except, I'm not working out on top of my long shifts. Now that is impressive, Livvie. You've gotten so strong, I can see it!"
"Thanks, ma," Olivia laughed. "I guess it just became such a big part of my routine while I was at school, that...I can't bear for it not to be anymore."
"I understand. You must have had quite the routine at school if it's got you running to the community center and back. And doing a workout in between — goodness."
Olivia thought back to how that routine started. With Fitz.
She thought of their morning chats while stretching. Taking breaks together. Spotting each other at the bench press. Secretly, or not so secretly watching each other. How hot he looked when he wore workout clothes. And even those times when the working out — led to more.
It almost had a smirk forming on her face, so she had to shut that shit down really fast.
She shrugged. "Yeah, I guess so. Lots of machine work, and interval training. So it's nice to start running outside more often here, because that's something I didn't do much there."
"I applaud you for that, dear. Sure as hell ain't gonna catch me running outside. Especially in the summer heat. Noooo way," Marie chuckled.
"Well, I definitely understand that," Olivia nodded.
"Speaking of New York, you been missing school? All your friends?" Marie asked.
"Yeah," Olivia replied honestly. "There's...there's a lot I miss about New York. But that doesn't mean I'm not grateful to be back here with you, ma."
"Mmmhm. Good answer," Marie laughed. "I'm sure New York has been a dream for you. But I do have to admit, I love having you back!"
"It's been fun," Olivia smiled.
"It has. I do appreciate late dinners with you after shifts. And I think Sunday dinner with Frankie has been a lot more fun for both of us having you back!"
"Oh yes. I definitely missed Sunday dinners," Olivia nodded in agreement. "What's for dinner this Sunday? You going to make Frankie's favorite mashed potatoes again?"
"You'll just have to see, Livvie," Marie smirked.
Ah yes. That Sunday dinner menu secrecy.
"Alright, alright. I tried," Olivia giggled.
Her mother gave her a playful smile and shook her head, laughing at her daughter's unapologetic attempt.
It was nice; she had to admit. Dinners with mom again were nice.
And, even though she missed everything about New York and the people in it, being home was comforting.
She did know that soon, she'd have to tell her family about Fitz. She didn't know when — she wanted to think about that more carefully first and plan it out. On one hand, she didn't think she wanted to rush right into it. She knew things may not go great, so the aftermath of that may feel very extensive if she jumped right into it. But on the other hand, she definitely didn't want to think about it and dread it all summer. This was something she did probably want to get off her chest sooner than later. Not only for her own sanity, but to give her family some time to process too, before she left for New York again in two months.
But other than figuring all of that out, she couldn't really complain too much. Because her start to the summer had been pretty damn good.
Well, hopefully it wasn't too sad of a chapter to read — with our two favs spending some time apart. They know how this goes. They'll be okay!
Hope you enjoyed.
Stay safe and read on,
~T