Love and Art

by Starfish81

Fitz is a big time art Rep & owner of Grant Art inc. He's the big shot that everyone wants to know. Olivia is a young and hopeful artist hoping to branch out her art beyond her friends shop. What happens when Olivia meets with Fitz for a job at his company? How will Fitz deal with his obligation to his company, while dealing with new and growing Feelings for the newest staff member

34. Chapter Thirty-Four: Connecticut

Chapter Thirty-Four: Connecticut is For Lovers, Too

Two Months Later…

Fitz can feel his breathing beginning to change, his chest is getting tighter and his legs are getting heavier and heavier with every step he takes. He was pushing himself too far today, he'd ran longer than he had before and harder than he normally does. It was time to bring it back home and decompress. For the past two months, Fitz had been going for a morning run, most times before the sun rose in the sky. He quite enjoyed his runs here in Sag Harbor, they were much more peaceful than a run in the city. Even in the wee hours of the morning, the streets were never empty. There was always a sound, cars, people, animals, it was never just him and his thoughts like it was in Sag Harbor.

It had been two months since the incident at his home, and since then he and Olivia had been staying at her home in Sag Harbor. After they gave their statements to officers, they were taken to the hospital to be evaluated. Olivia and the baby were cleared by the doctor, but Fitz was held at the hospital. The doctors were concerned about a concussion and other possible head injuries especially since Fitz was hit hard enough to cause a blackout. Fitz wasn't too happy about not being able to leave, he hated being fussed over. And all night that's just what happened. After running every test they had on him, Fitz was finally able to rest, for an hour or so at a time. Every time he finally managed to get comfortable in his small hospital bed a nurse would come in the room just to wake him and ask if he was feeling alright. After the third time, Fitz was fed up with everything. And he also hated that Olivia refused to leave his side. He knew she wanted to be there for him, but he also knew she stayed because she didn't want to be without him. Although she wouldn't have been alone at her parent's house, she felt safer with Fitz.

Fitz was released a day later, and he was glad. Olivia's parents had tried to convince Olivia to come stay with them for a while, and Fitz's parents did the same, but they both refused. There was no way Olivia was going back to Fitz's house and now that she knew for sure that Roger had been in Fitz's penthouse as well, she wasn't going back there either. She honestly just wanted to get out of the city. So they made the drive to Olivia's home in Sag. They didn't even pack, Olivia had things at her home already and Fitz had his things sent.

The past two months have been almost routine for Olivia and Fitz. For the first month, they went nowhere. They stayed inside with the doors shut, locked and curtains drawn, living like hermits. It was mostly Olivia's doing, but Fitz went along with it because that's what she needed at the time. Every morning, Fitz went for his run, trying to make it back before Olivia woke up. Then they would have breakfast together, reading the newspaper delivered on the front step. And while Olivia watched a little TV, Fitz would occupy Olivia's office for zoom meeting for work since he wasn't there in person. And the rest of the day seemed to go by in a blur, more TV, lunch, talks, board games, dinner, TV, bed and repeat.

Fitz tried some days to get Olivia to go out, to even at least walk the dogs but she refused, saying she wasn't ready. It wasn't until recently that she started back allowing company over the house. But mainly just her neighbor, Laurel. She still preferred to stay indoors most of the time and especially at night. Getting Olivia to go anywhere after dark was a huge no. During the day she would at least entertain the idea, but once the sun settled, Olivia was indoors for the night.

So since most of his time was spent indoors, Fitz used his morning runs as a chance to blow off steam and be alone with his thoughts. Thoughts about the shooting. Fitz has been in his fair share of fights as a young man and adult, and he's used his gun on many occasions. He's used the gun to protect himself before, and although he knew how to use it, he's never actually shot at a person. And now, he'd taken a life. A terrible, some might say despicable life, but a life none the less. Fitz wasn't losing sleep over shooting Roger, but for a while, he did feel some remorse for taking a life. But then he would remember that he was protecting Olivia, he had no choice but to do what he did. And for a while he would be fine, until the remorse came back. And back and forth in his head the thoughts went over and over. Fitz still wasn't losing sleep, but the constant back and forth in his head was getting frustrating. He wished he could just get over what happened, but exactly how long does it take to come to terms with the fact that you took a life?

Fitz came up to the driveway, and saw a man standing on the front porch. He was bringing his hand down as if he just knocked on the door. Fitz was alarmed at first, as he now was every time he saw a stranger anywhere around the house. But then he grew annoyed recognizing the man on the porch. Fitz jogged up the steps startling the man standing at the door.

Hudson turned at the sudden noise and stepped back when Fitz came up to him. He was hoping to see Olivia before Fitz came back for his run, but so much for that. He put on his best neighborly smile, but he knew it wouldn't have an effect on Fitz. The man didn't like him, and it was understandable. Yes, it was no secret Hudson had a huge crush on Olivia and he still did. But he knew now that Olivia was unavailable. And if the eight-month pregnant belly didn't prove, it Fitz's overwhelming presence in town certainly did. Hudson had given up on making Olivia his, but he still wanted her in his life as a friend. But lately that was seeming to be impossible to thanks to Fitz.

"Fitz how are you?" Hudson greeted the man warmly. He pulled back his hand when it was clear Fitz wasn't going to shake it. "Great morning for a run huh."

"Hudson Mayer." Fitz said, wiping the sweat off his face and chest. He always ran shirtless and with a white hand towel in his back pocket. "Why am I not surprised to see you here? What brings you by?"

"Well my father made this popcorn basked for Olivia, he added all her favorites. And some other people added some things as well, Ida added some of her homemade candles and Sara added some of her potpourri. At least the house will smell good." Hudson chuckled, but Fitz kept a stone face. "I just wanted to come back and check on Olivia."

"Why?"

"Well I- we… the whole town really. We heard about what happened to Olivia and to you and we know her spirits have been down a little lately."

"Almost dying can do that to a person." Fitz said and Hudson just awkwardly nodded. "But you didn't have to come by with your basket, I'm more than capable of taking care of Olivia."

"Oh right, I know that obviously." Obviously. "Some of the people in town, just wanted to do something nice for Olivia."

"The town seems to be doing a lot of talking about us lately." Fitz said. And it was the truth. Every time Fitz went for his morning runs, he could feel some of Olivia's neighbors watching him as he passed by. When he went to the grocery store, he could see people staring and whispering and when he turned their way, they would quickly look away and scatter. Fitz and Olivia were certainly a major topic of discussion.

"Nothing really happens in Sag Harbor that's truly gossip-worthy, so when something does happen, the entire town is going to talk about it."

"Really? So, what is the town talking about?"

"Nothing bad, just about the situation-"

"With Olivia's crazy ex-boyfriend."

"Yep. And it's not gossip so much, nothing bad really. Most people are admiring you for protecting Olivia the way you did."

"You mean by shooting her ex. Right between the eyes to be exact, one perfect shot. It was pretty damn good if I go say so myself. Fitz time I've fired a gun a human and not animal, but it's pretty much the same."

"Is that so."

"Mhm. Maybe I can take you out one day, teach you a few things."

"Perhaps." Hudson hated guns, they made him extremely uncomfortable. Hunting has never been a part of his life, he made popcorn balls for a living for Christ's sake.

Before either could say anything else, the front door swung open and Hudson could not have been more grateful to see Olivia standing there. She looked as if she'd just woken up, which was why she hadn't heard Hudson's knocks on her door. She was dressed in an oversized t-shirt that was clearly Fitz's, with a pair of rainbow tube socks. The braids she's had in her hair overnight were now fuzzy and tousled with bed head. But she was still so beautiful to both the men standing on her porch.

"I thought I heard some voices out here." She looked between the two men, noticing Hudson seemed to be uncomfortable. "What's going on?"

"Well apparently the entire town has been talking about us, and Huds here brought over a basket to cheer you up. Because apparently popcorn balls and potpourri that smells like a foot makes any situation better." Fitz took one of the popcorn balls out of the basket Hudson was holding. He took an obnoxiously big bite, staring at Hudson the whole time. "Wow, I feel better already." Fitz put the popcorn back and roughly patted Hudson on the shoulder. "See you around Huds." Fitz walked past Olivia into the house, enjoying the annoyed looked on Hudson's face every time he called him Huds.

"I'm sorry about that." Olivia apologized after Fitz went inside. She didn't know what their conversation was like before she came outside, but she was sure Fitz's behavior wasn't necessary.

"No, nothing to apologize for. I understand he must be very stressed."

Olivia smiled but didn't answer. She knew Fitz would not be too keen on them discussing him. "So is this for me?"

"Oh right yeah." Hudson gave Olivia the basket. "My dad put all your favorites in there and a few other people added some things. But I would steer clear of Sara's potpourri. Fitz was right, it does smell like feet." Hudson smiled, and Olivia laughed.

"Well thank you for this and be sure to thank your dad for me as well." Olivia began making her way back inside.

"Of course." Hudson spoke again right before Olivia shut her door. "And Olivia if you ever need anything, anything at all, I'm always here."

"Thank you Hudson, but I think we'll be fine."

"Offers still open."

"Thanks." This time Olivia did shut the door. She turned to glare at Fitz who was sitting on one of the bar stools, drinking his coffee and reading the morning paper. Since her home had an open floor plan, she could see him from the front door.

"What was that all about?" she asked, sitting the basket on the counter. She plucked out the potpourri and put it in the trash.

"What?"

"Why are you always so mean to him?" Olivia took a bowl of oatmeal out of the fridge. Every morning it was always her go-to breakfast food. She would top it with bananas, peanut butter and coconut flakes.

"Because the man is clearly infatuated with you Liv and you act as if you don't see it."

"He had a crush on me yes, but he got over than when we got back together."

"Olivia you can be so naive at times. You don't just get over someone once you've spent so long longing for them."

"Longing for me?" Olivia laughed. "I think you're reaching. It was a simple crush, that's it."

Fitz went back to reading his paper. "If you say so. But I'm aware that there is a fox is my hen house."

"Ooh yeah, lets never refer to me as a hen again."

"It was a metaphor Liv."

"I am not a hen-"

"But your house is mine and I don't like him sniffing around."

Olivia walked over to him and wrapped her arms around his shoulder, she kissed his neck. "Well it's a good thing I only have eyes for you."

Fitz turned his head, to give Olivia a proper good morning kiss. He hooked his arm around her attempting to pull her in his lap, but at the last second Olivia remembered she had a pot on the stove. As Olivia went to check on her pot, there was a ring at the door. They looked to see a figure walking away from the door, and then an amazon truck pulled away.

Olivia looked back at Fitz with a sweet smile knowing what he was about to say.

"Did you order something else Olivia?" Fitz asked, walking to the door to retrieve the box from the porch.

"What? It's for the baby." She defended herself. "I have nothing to do all day long."

"Olivia the upstairs room is getting too full, soon you won't have anywhere to put any of this stuff." Olivia had been using her spare room as a storage room for all the things she'd bought for the baby. She'd already picked out a crib with a matching dressing table and dresser in three big boxes waiting to be put together. There were boxes for rockers and swings. Boxes for the many baby books Olivia had bought. Boxes of diapers and wipes, Bags filled with clothes, blankets, shoes that the baby wouldn't even be able to wear for a while. It was chaos, and Olivia was still shopping. She didn't have anything else to do during the day, so she shopped and shopped and shopped.

"What is it anyway?" Fitz came back into the kitchen with the box.

Olivia shrugged, "I don't know I thought the pictures I ordered were coming today. Oh! It might be the baby cams I ordered for the nursery."

"Olivia she doesn't even have a nursery yet."

"Well if you have a better realtor we would have a house by now." Olivia sat down at the table with her bowl of oatmeal and a glass of ice milk. "She keeps showing us the wrong homes."

"Olivia there is nothing wrong with our realtor and you're the only one that finds something wrong with all the houses. The last one was too gaudy, the one before you didn't like the neighborhood and the before that you said it looked like the house from poltergeist."

"Because it did Fitz and you know it, it was creepy." Olivia laughed. "I just want a house that both of us like. I want to know it's the one when I first lay eyes on it. And it doesn't help that you just agree with what I say. You just keep saying 'whatever you want'."

"Because I don't care where we live Liv, as long as I'm with you."

Olivia smiled shyly. "Well that's sweet, but I don't want you to just agree with me all the time. I want you to have an opinion, this will be your home too."

"She didn't email me a couple more listings, but I know you won't like them either." Even though Fitz knew Olivia wasn't going to like any of the houses, he still went to get his iPad to show Olivia the listings the realtor had sent. And as he knew before, Olivia hated them all. Even more so than the first couple of houses they looked at.

"Ugh! Why is this so hard? Why can't there just be a house out there built exactly how I want it?" Fitz was digging through the basket Hudson had brought over as she was talking to him. "Are you even listening to me?"

"Yes I am, but you've given this exact speech a few times before." Fitz continued to look through the basket until he came across a jar of Epsom salt. Olivia had gone back to scrolling through the email from the realtor, so he went upstairs to run some water in the tub. He poured some of the Epsom salt and some of the essential oils Olivia liked to use whenever she soaked in a tub. When he went back downstairs, Olivia was still reading on the iPad. He picked her up off the chair and carried her upstairs. He sat her in front of the mirror and started undressing her.

"You know, my doctor was right when she said most women gain the majority of the weight in their last months of pregnancy." Fitz had taken off Olivia's shirt and she stood in front of the full-length mirror in just her underwear and tube socks. She turned to the side, rubbing her protruding belly. "I mean I'm still small to be in my eighth month of pregnancy, but she said that my weight is fine, and the baby is fine too."

Fitz was listening to her, but not adding to the conversation. He was busy trying to get her clothes off. He lifted her feet one by one, pulling her sock off and then he pushed her underwear down. When she was completely naked, she stepped in the water waiting for Fitz to get rid of his clothes. She sat up as Fitz stepped in behind her and leaned back against his chest in the hot water. The feel of the water on her aching muscles felt so good. She rubbed on Fitz's upper thigh as he used her loofah to squeeze the water on her and then rubbed slowly over her arms and chest.

"This is nice." Olivia said. "But when we get another house, we have to make sure the tub is big enough to fit you." Olivia laughed. Olivia had a clawfoot tub in her bathroom which was the perfect size for her with enough space to stretch out and relax. Fitz on the other hand was too tall for the tub. He couldn't fully extend his legs; they were always bent with his knees poking out the top of the water. Sometimes he even hung his legs on the outside of the tub to stretch them a little.

"Top priority."

"What do you have planned today?" Olivia asked.

"I'm probably just going to spend a few hours in the guesthouse working." Fitz had been working on his new upcoming project for a while now, even before they moved back to Sag Harbor. And since Olivia wasn't using it at the moment, Fitz had taken over Olivia's guesthouse that she'd converted into her studio when she first moved in. Fitz spent hours in there alone, just working. On a few occasions, Olivia had woken up in the middle of the night startled and alone. But then she'd look out the window and see the glow of light coming from the guesthouse and knew he was just in there working. She still didn't like it when he left her at night, but he was only in the back yard and she knew she couldn't keep him glued to her hip forever.

"Are you ever going to let me see what you're working on? You've been at this for months now and I have yet to see even one canvas."

"You'll see it. You and the rest of the world."

"When?"

"When I'm finished."

"And when will that be?"

"I have no idea." Fitz answered honestly. Although he'd been working on this project for a while, he still had no idea when he would be finished. "You should know better than anyone Liv that you can't rush art." Olivia sighed. She desperately wanted to see what Fitz was working on. It had been so long since he'd been passionate about a project of his own. She loved seeing that fire in him, she loved seeing him get lost in what he loves. She'd snuck out to the guesthouse plenty of times to get just a peek while Fitz was away, but she'd talked herself out of it at the last-minute knowing Fitz would be upset if he found out. He was such a perfectionist, he was going to make sure every detail was just right before he displayed anything.

"I'm not rushing you. You've just been working on this for months and you won't let me see anything. And as your girlfriend, I don't think it's right that you're making me wait with the rest of the world to see what you're working on."

"You'll be alright." Fitz kissed the side of Olivia's head, chuckling at the annoyed look on her face. "So I got a call from your mother."

"Oh?" Olivia knew what this was about, she'd been dodging her mother's calls for a while and now she guessed she was resorting to calling Fitz instead.

"She says she hasn't been able to reach you for a few days now." Olivia sighed. "have you been ignoring your mother Livvie?" Fitz smirked.

"I haven't been ignoring her. Every third time she calls I answer."

"You have a system for avoiding your mother? Olivia-"

"I'm not ignoring her. She just keeps calling me."

"Well she is your mother."

"I not that, but-"

"And you did just go through a life-threatening situation, that I'm sure was very traumatic for your mother as well. She's just worried about you Olivia."

"And I know that, but does she have to be annoying about it?" Dianna was more than upset when Olivia decided against coming home with her parents and instead moved an hour away again. Her daughter had just gone through a life-altering situation, and instead of wanting comfort from her parents, she flees. Ever since that night, Dianna had become a helicopter parent. She called and texted Olivia every day and if she didn't get an answer, she left a message. She was constantly facetiming Olivia to make sure she was eating, getting enough sleep, questioning Fitz about the home security system. Dianna was only concerned about her child and the fact that Olivia wasn't home only made it worse. She didn't know how to cope, so instead she tried to do everything and was smothering Olivia.

"She's become a helicopter parent. And don't get me wrong, I love my mother but she's really getting on my nerves. Every time she calls all she wants to talk about is whether I'm eating, did I get enough sleep she's treating me like a kid. And then somehow the subject is always changed to Roger and that night and how she never liked him, and I'm sick of talking about him."

"Well just tell her that."

"She doesn't listen to me. That is why I have been screening her calls. Screening, not ignoring."

Fitz knew Olivia was not going to like what Fitz said next. "Well because you've been screening her calls, she has decided that she needs to come check on you."

Olivia whipped around in the tub so fast, water splashed on the floor. "What?"

"She's coming to check on you. That's why she called me, she and your father are driving up to stay for a couple of days."

Olivia was shaking her head. "No, no I do not want my mother coming here."

"I'm sure she'll love to hear you say that."

"Shut up, you don't get it. She's smothering me."

"You know you should appreciate it while you can. One day you're going to wish she was around to bug you."

Olivia gave up. "Alright. You don't have to guilt me." She turned back around and rested back against Fitz's chest. "And when did you get so insightful, you never even went to visit your parents at their house. They had to catch you off guard at your house."

"That was before I say the error of my ways… by my mother."

"Yeah I bet." Olivia closed her eyes. "It's only a couple of days and they can stay at the B&B."

"Olivia."

"What? It's nice, plus my spare room is full of the baby's stuff. And in the B&B she and my dad will have a bed instead of my couch and an air mattress."

"Fine, I'll call and book them a couple of rooms."

"Good. And speaking of baby stuff."

Fitz rolled his eyes, he was tired of talking about a new house. "Olivia please not with the house stuff again."

"I wasn't going to talk about the house. I was going to say speaking of baby stuff, our baby still doesn't have a name."

"She doesn't have a name because once again, you can't make your mind."

"Me? I'm the one coming up with all the names and you just keep vetoing my names. What happened to 'whatever I want'?" Olivia threw back at him.

"Okay, hit me with it." Fitz said, although he knew he probably wasn't going to like any of them anyway.

"Fine. I know I've said it before, but I like the name Charlotte-"

"I told you no places Liv."

"April." Olivia tried again.

"No months either."

Olivia was getting irritated. "Lily."

"No flowers."

"Oh my God! You're impossible."

"What because I don't want my daughter named after a month or some ugly flower.

"She won't be named after the month Fitz; her name would just be April." Olivia laughed despite her growing irritation with him. "And lilies are not ugly, you've given me a bouquet with daylilies. I think I liked it better when you didn't have an opinion on a name."

"Hey it's not just me, you've vetoed some of my names too. I told you I liked Connor."

"Connor is a boy's name."

"It's unisex."

"Not to me it isn't. When I hear Connor, I picture a boy."

"You know at the rate we're going the baby is going to be here and we still won't have a name."

"Because of you and your vetoes. We might as well just call her Baby. Baby Girl Grant."

"It has a ring to it." Fitz smirked.

"You're annoying."

"Love you too baby." Fitz put his hands on Olivia's stomach and could feel the baby kicking. "Look even she likes it, she's kicking."

"Those aren't excited kicks; she's kicking you for annoying her mother."

"Ganging up on me already." Fitz laughed, but then a sharp pain shot through his temple silencing him. Olivia noticed Fitz's sudden silence and turned around.

"Fitz you okay?" He was holding a hand across his forehead and she moved his hand so she could look at him. "Fitz what is it?"

"Nothing I'm fine."

"You lied to me." Olivia accused. "You told me the headaches had stopped." Ever since he got hit in the head that night, Fitz's migraines had become more frequent and he would get these pains in his temples. Most of the time he could hide it from Olivia, but not this time with her right in front of him. "You lied to me and your doctor. You're probably not even taking the pills he gave you either, are you?"

"I don't need them Olivia because I am fine."

"Fitz why do you have to be so stubborn sometimes? Don't you remember him telling you that the effects of a concussion can last upwards to a year?"

"I don't have a concussion."

"You had severe trauma to your head, enough to knock you unconscious that sounds like a concussion to me Fitzgerald."

"No." Fitz groaned. "Don't call me Fitzgerald unless it's sexual, now you just sound like my mother." Olivia was not amused, and her face showed it. "Liv this is a wasted argument because I am fine. I didn't mean to worry you, but there is nothing to worry about. Okay." Fitz leaned in and kissed Olivia's forehead before standing to leave the tub. "Soak a bit longer, the water is still hot."

"We're not done talking about this Fitz." Olivia told him as he walked out of the bathroom.

X

The next morning Olivia woke up to her cellphone ringing. She didn't know why she still had a house phone when everyone she knew just called her cell. She fumbled her hand blindly around her nightstand before she felt what she thought could be her phone. With sleep still crusting her eyes, she answered the phone after checking the caller ID.

"Hey Lex."

"Liv? You sound like you're still in bed."

"That's because I am. It's eight in the morning and I have nothing else to do but sleep."

"Then it's a good thing I called, otherwise you would have missed our reservation."

Olivia was confused, she didn't remember making plans with her sister. "What are you talking about?"

Oh my God, seriously Liv? That pregnancy brain is kicking your ass." Alex laughed. "Breakfast this morning. Me, Quinn, Mom, and dad we drive out last night. Fitz suggested breakfast this morning, didn't he tell you any of this?"

Just as Alex finished, Fitz came in the bedroom fresh from his run. Olivia glared at him as she spoke on the phone. "Breakfast huh? No Fitz didn't tell me that." Olivia launched a pillow at Fitz's laughing face.

"Well now you know, and do you even think about skipping, because you will not leave me alone with mom and dad. See ya." Alex hung up the phone and Olivia tossed hers back on the nightstand.

"Really Fitz?"

"What? I knew if I told you that you wouldn't want to go."

"Yeah, you're right I don't want to go."

Fitz came to sit on the edge of the bed next to Olivia. "Olivia I know you're still not fully comfortable going outside yet, but you can't stay in this house forever. And you shouldn't want to. The threat is gone, Roger is dead, but you're still letting him control your life. Don't let him make you live in fear, he doesn't have that power anymore. Besides, I will be with you every step and I won't let anything happen to you. I promise."

Olivia knew he was right. She was still letting Roger dictate her life from the grave and that wasn't right. She wasn't going to live like a hermit for the rest of her life because of one man. It was time for her to start living her life again.

X

"Do you think this is too much for breakfast?" Quin came out of the bathroom in an all-black long sleeve dress, it came to her mid-thigh and she was wearing polka dot tights underneath with black ankle boots. She mainly asked, because of the dipping neckline on her dress, it might have exposed a little too much.

Alex and Quinn made it to the B&B last night after a very enjoyable ride. Alex was so glad she decided to drive her car alone with Quinn instead of riding with her parents. She was sure her car ride with Quinn's roaming hands was more enjoyable than a car ride listening to her dad's jazz CD nonstop and her mother's constant overbearing questions about her life.

And she was also glad that she'd convinced Quinn to stay in her room last night. Fitz had reserved three rooms for their stay, which Alex was grateful for because she and Quinn sharing one room with one bed would certainly raise a few eyebrows. But she had a feeling that that third bedroom was going to go to waste.

Alex looked up, after buckling her shoe. "You look beautiful."

Quinn blushed. "Thanks." She went to the vanity to put on her jewelry and brush her hair.

Alex came up behind her, looping her arms around her hips. She rested her head on Quinn's shoulder and kissed the side of her neck. "So, last night."

Quinn blushed again, this time in embarrassment. "You're not going to let that go, are you?"

"Of course not, that was my proudest moment." Alex moved her hands down Quinn's stomach and to the hem of her dress. She ran her hands up Quinn's dress, wishing eh didn't have her tights on now. "It was like a fire hose."

"Well that is absolutely the last time that will happen again, because your ego is already too big for me."

"I don't think that's up to you." Alex found the top of her tights and slipped her hand inside Quinn's underwear.

Quinn grabbed Alex's hand to stop her, "We don't have time for this." But even as she said the words, she was pushing Alex's hand further to where she wanted her, instead of pushing her away. Her eyes shut, her head fell back against Alex's shoulder as a moan escaped between her lips. She didn't know what it was about this woman, but every time Alex touched her, she was just rendered powerless. She felt Alex's other hand on her cheek turning her head and she melted into the kiss, her willpower slipping further and further away. Before Quinn could fully give in to Alex's talented hands and lips, the knob on Alex's door giggled, someone was trying to open the door but thankfully it was locked.

"Alex, it's your mother open the door." Dianna's voice rang through the door and the two women broke apart from each other. Quinn fixed her clothes and they both checked their appearance in the mirror before Alex opened the door.

"Hey ma, what is it?"

"I came to se if you were ready to go. Your father and I are dressed, and I can't find Quinn she didn't answer her door." Dianna looked beyond Alex and saw Quinn standing near the back of the room. "Oh dear, there you are. What are you doing here so early?"

"I just came to borrow some earrings from Alex." Quinn came up with a lie so easily. She was a pro at fooling parents, although she wished it didn't have to be one of her talents.

"Oh, well you're both ready. Let's go before your father wanders back to the bed."

"Okay." Alex said, before shutting her door. When she looked back at Quinn, she could see her mood had changed some. Alex knew how much Quinn hated lying to Dianna and Eli and she especially hated that she had to hide who she was in front of them. She'd spent years hiding and lying to her own parents and after she finally came out to them, she swore that she would never pretend or hide who she was from anyone else. And now here she was again, back in another metaphorical closet because her girlfriend was too afraid to show her parent her true self.

"You okay?" Alex asked.

"Mhm, fine." Quinn answered, but Alex could tell she was annoyed.

Now Alex felt bad for asking Quinn to come with her. When Alex first asked, Quinn declined, and Alex knew it was because she would have to pretend for her parents. But Alex wore her down and convinced her to come, just because she didn't want to be alone never mind how Quin felt. Quinn walked to the door after grabbing her purse and Alex stopped her before she walked out.

"It's only a couple of days." Quinn only smiled politely before walking out to meet Dianna downstairs. Yes, this trip was only for a couple of days, but when they went back home, the lying game would still be on.

X

Breakfast was great for everyone involved, even Olivia who was sure was sure her mother was going to ruin it for her with her constant smothering. Surprisingly, Dianna was almost chill, as chill as Dianna could get. The conversation at the table was light and humorous and the food was great. Olivia was glad Fitz had convinced her to finally leave the house. She couldn't believe she'd been living like a hermit for two months now. But although she had left her home didn't mean she was completely comfortable. On several occasions, Olivia was caught off guard. A waiter had dropped a tray and Olivia jumped. Then one of her neighbors who'd recognized her came over to say hello, she tapped on Olivia's shoulder and Olivia nearly jumped out of her chair.

After their large breakfast, they decided to walk it off around town for a bit. They ended up going to the Grenning Gallery for a while. Olivia and Fitz had already been to the gallery before, but it was a first for everyone else.

Alex and Olivia had fallen behind with the group just a few feet ahead of them.

"So today wasn't as terrible as I thought it would be. Mainly your mother, I was sure she would absolutely get on my nerves the second she got here." Olivia confessed. "But she's actually been chill."

"You're speaking too son kid; the day is just beginning."

"Ugh you're right. I love mom, but she has got to stop with the constant calling, texting and who taught her how to facetime? You know she facetimes me at four a.m. one day just to tell me that there was a home invasion in North Haven over one hundred miles away. I swear, she has a subscription to every crime-stopper website." Olivia and Alex both laughed.

"Oh please you've got it easy, you're an hour away she can't just pop up on you at a moments notice. It's like she has a sixth sense and knows exactly when Quinn and I are 'enjoying each other's company'. I haven't had a proper orgasm until last night." Olivia snorted, which made the rest of the group look towards the two of them, wondering what they were talking about. Alex spoke a little lower now, as they kept walking. "I swear mom acts like Roger came after the both of us instead of you. Next time you get held hostage by a deranged ex-boyfriend, do me a favor and stick around afterward so mom can unleash all her crazy onto you."

Olivia laughed again, "Of course." They kept walking behind the rest of the group for a while longer. Since Olivia had already been to the museum before, she acted as a guide for Alex. Pointed out her favorite paintings and explaining the various statues, Olivia loved Italian art. Ever so often when Olivia would look over at Alex, she'd find her staring off not paying attention to her. And every time Olivia would follow Alex's line of vision, she'd find she was staring at Quinn from across the room. Olivia smirked at her sister after, once again finding her gazing at Quinn. She came up beside her and looped her arms through her sister's.

"You know if you want to continue hiding the fact that you and Quinn bump pelvises at night, you might want to stop staring at her."

Alex snorted loudly. "Bump pelvis really Liv? And is it really that obvious?" Alex was suddenly nervous, if Olivia caught her staring at Quinn, that meant other people may have noticed it too. Alex didn't even realize she'd been staring that hard, she just couldn't help it.

"Yes, it is that obvious, you're staring at her right now." Olivia was laughing as she spoke. Her sister was whipped, completely infatuated. Olivia just wished her sister had the courage to let her parents know.

"I can't help it." Alex said with the cheesiest grin on her face.

"Well that's what happens when you're in love Alex."

Alex stopped her steps abruptly, "Woah, who said anything about love? Yes, I have certain affections for her, but I'm not sure it's love."

"Alex shut up, because you love that girl. You spend every waking moment you can with her, You two are constantly talking on the phone when you aren't together. You smile that giddy grin every time you talk about her and you haven't been able to take your eyes off her since we got here. You're in love, I was the same way with Fitz when we first started dating."

Alex knew her sister was right, but she wasn't ready to accept it yet. Alex has dated a lot of people in her life and has had even more hookups and she's never felt the same about a person the way she feels for Quinn. Just seeing her face brightened up her day, hearing her name brings a smile to her face. She's never been so completely unguarded and comfortable with a person. She could be her true crazy, silly and passionate self with Quinn. She felt no need to hide. Was this what love feels like? Not being able to focus when you're apart from one another, constantly wondering what the other is doing or thinking and wondering if they're thinking about you. Willing your phone to ring, hoping it's her and just being completely satisfied sexually, emotionally and mentally.

"You need to stop lying to yourself, you love that woman and there is nothing wrong with that." Olivia said.

"I feel bad. I convinced her to come up here with me for my own selfish reasons. I just didn't want to be alone; I didn't want to be without her. But she hates going to any function that mom and dad will be at, because she hates lying to them."

"I would hate having to hide too." Olivia knew Quinn hated having to hide from her parents every time she came around. "Why are you so scared to tell them?"

"Last week, Quinn told me she'd been lying to me about her family." Olivia was confused. "She told me she was an only child when we first met. But turns out she actually has an older brother and a little sister. When she came out and her parents kicked her out, they told her she was dead to them and they told her siblings the same thing. They told them if they even spoke to Quinn again, they would be cut off just like she was. She hasn't seen her brother or her sister in over ten years."

Olivia felt a tear rolling down her cheek and she wiped it away, staring at Quinn. "That's so sad."

"She said I was the first person she told that to. She told her last girlfriend that she was an orphan. It's just too painful for her to talk about her family."

"How could a parent do that to their own child?" Olivia was subconsciously rubbing her belly. She would never disown her own child no matter how her daughter chose to live her life. "Is that why you're afraid to tell mom and dad?" Olivia asked Alex, but she didn't answer. "Alex even if they don't approve of your relationship, they love you and they would never just cut you out of their life. And no matter what happens, nothing in this world would ever keep me away from you."

Alex hugged her sister, "Stop crying, you're making me emotional in front of these white people." They both laughed through teary eyes, both of them being big saps.

"But on a real note, Quinn I don't know how much longer Quinn is going to go along with this just roommate's story. But on a positive note, she is completely in love with you too. Why else would she put up with you for this long?"

X

After spending a few more hours in town and having lunch together, everyone was more than tired and ready to rest. They went back to Olivia's house to relax. Olivia spent most of the time upstairs showing her mother, Alex and Quinn everything she'd bought for the baby. And Fitz was downstairs with Olivia's father playing yet another game of chess. Eli was a huge fan of chess, but no one else in the family was a big fan, they all thought it was boring, So Eli would always just play in the parks with strangers who'd become good friends, or he'd play online. But when he discovered that Fitz was also a big fan of chess, he started playing with him. Now just about every time they saw each other they were playing a game. Olivia loved that her dad and her boyfriend had something they could bond over. It was important to her that the two most important men in her life got along.

After a while, things began to wind down and the family said their goodbyes for the night and headed back to the B&B. Dianna and Eli retired to their rooms and so did Alex and Quinn. But after showering and getting ready for bed, Alex was finding it hard to sleep in her room alone. She was so used to sleeping in the same bed as Quinn. Because although Quinn had her own room at the brownstone, she never slept there. Every night, she was in Olivia's old bedroom with Alex. Alex tried for a while to find sleep, she turned on the TV hoping that would lull her to sleep, but it didn't work. Then she tried turning off the TV and laying in the dark for a while and then that didn't work either, she gave up and got out of bed. She grabbed her robe and cracked her bedroom door open. She poked her head out checking that the hallway was clear. Her parents' room was at the opposite end of the hall, but her mother had a tendency to wander at night and early mornings when she couldn't sleep. After checking the hall, Alex quickly made her way to Quinn's door and knocked softly.

"Who is it?" Quinn asked through the door."

"It's me." Alex spoke quietly, so she wouldn't be heard. There was a full house staying at the B&B this weekend, but the halls were dead quiet. Alex waited for a moment later, then she heard the lock turn on the door and Quinn cracked the door open the chain still attached. "Aren't you going to let me in?" Alex asked, after Quinn didn't open the door for her.

"It's getting late Alex; I just want to sleep." Quinn said, but she didn't mean it.

"And so do I, but you know I can't sleep alone. Open the door please."

Quinn sighed, but she still closed the door and removed the chain to let Alex inside. Quinn shut and locked the door after Alex entered. Quinn was being quiet, and she looked upset about something. She still didn't speak as she went to the bathroom to brush her teeth and came back into the room removing her robe to get into bed.

"Everything alright?" Alex asked, taking off her robe as well. She could tell Quinn was upset about something.

"Yes." Quinn answered, but Alex knew that was a lie.

"Quinn what's wrong?"

"Nothing." Quinn insisted. "I don't want to argue with you right now."

"What would we have to argue about?" Alex pushed; she wasn't a fan of going to bed angry. It only made the next morning that much harder.

Quinn sighed, it seemed Alex was determined to find out what she was thinking. "Alex what are we doing?" Alex was confused, she didn't know what Quinn was talking about. "What are we doing? Why am I here? Why do you keep bringing me on family trips when I'm only a roommate right?"

"Quinn what is this about?"

"You should know Alex, we've had this same conversation dozens of times before." Quinn was getting teary-eyed. "How long are you going to make me do this? How long are you going to make me keep up this façade to your parents."

"Quinn-"

"Have you even thought about how this makes me feel? Having to hide, being your dirty little secret."

"You are not my dirty little secret."

"No? Then what am I?"

"You're my girlfriend."

"In private right? Behind closed doors, I'm your girlfriend. But out in public where it truly matters, I'm just a roommate that you occasionally like to go down on in private." Quinn was fully crying now. "Why can't you just tell them?"

"Because I'm not as brave as you were Quinn. I'm scared of the fallout after I tell them." Alex walked around to the other side of the bed. She held both of Quinn's hands as she spoke. "I'm just not ready to tell them yet."

"So just fuck me and my feeling then?"

"No, I know you're tired of lying and I don't like it either and I will tell them."

"When?"

"I don't know Quinn, but I need you to stop rushing me."

Quinn pulled her hands away from Alex. "I'm not rushing you. I'm just simply asking you to stop treating me like your dirty secret. I… I care for you Alex I do, but I don't know how much more of this I can take." Quinn plopped on the side of the bed defeated. This conversation was going nowhere, it never did. Quinn loved Alex, she has ever since they first met and Quinn was playing in Alex's band. She'd only agreed to be in Alex's band because she wanted to get closer to Alex. Had she known a rollercoaster of emotions would be a result of her affections, she probably would have stayed away. It wasn't supposed to hurt to love someone, it wasn't supposed to be painful. But that's exactly how it felt to be in love with Alex, it was painful. Too painful at times.

Alex knew Quinn's patience with her was wearing thin, and she knew she had to make some major changes before Quinn gave up on her. She survived the first breakup with Quinn, but Alex wasn't so sure she'd survive another one. Quinn has always had a special place in Alex's heart, and she'd become one of the important people in her life. She hated that her fear and reluctance was causing Quinn so much hurt.

Alex sat down on the bed beside Quinn, she pushed Quinn's hair off her shoulder and wiped her tear-stained cheek. She leaned in and kissed the corner of her mouth. She put her hand on Quinn's face and turned her to face her. She rested her forehead against Quinn's, trying to convey everything she wanted to tell Quinn, but couldn't find the words for. A simple kiss, followed by another led to more as they both climbed on the bed, mouths still connected. Hands roaming over each other, massaging backsides, groping breast, heated moans. They separated to remove their tops. Quinn removed her shirt and Alex took off her nightgown, neither one of them were wearing bras. Quinn took the opportunity to massage Alex's bare breast, sucking on one while she groped the other. Alex's hands went into Quinn's hair steadying her head and keeping her in place.

Quinn released Alex's breast with a pop and trailed kisses up her neck until she made it back to her mouth. She ran her tongue in her mouth, relishing in the feel of Alex's tongue against hers. She would never get tired of kissing her. Alex put both hands on Quinn's head pulling her back so she could look her in the face. They were both panting with lust in their eyes. Alex gazed into Quinn's eyes once again trying to convey her thought, but the words once again failed her.

Alex lay Quinn down on the bed, flat on her back. Quinn lifted her hips so Alex could pull her shorts and underwear off in one motion. Her legs were bent, and she spread them open, allowing Alex to lay between them. Quinn trembled as Alex placed wet kisses down her torso. She was forming goosebumps all over her body and the hairs on her arms were raising. She was always so perceptive to Alex's touch. She'd never been so responsive to anyone in bed the way she was for Alex. The second she felt Alex's tongue on her clit she was ready to give in. Making love to Alex was always intense and this time was no different. One hand was twisting the sheets together and the other was running through Alex's hair. Quinn wanted to pull her head away and push it closer all at the same time.

Quinn felt her orgasm building, then suddenly Alex gripped both of Quinn's thighs and used her momentum to turn them both over. Alex was now on her back and Quinn was grinding into her face. The sudden change in position caused a new excitement to build up. She tossed her head back in ecstasy as tears rolled down her face. Mostly because she knew that they were solving nothing tonight and tomorrow things would go back to how they already are.

X

Fitz was sitting on the edge of their bed unbuttoning the buttons on his cuffs, when he felt Olivia come up behind him. She draped her arms around his shoulder and kissed his cheek.

"You're in a good mood."

"Thank you for today, and for convincing me to go out. Today wasn't terrible like I thought it would be. I actually enjoyed seeing my parents today."

"Well I'm glad." Fitz stood up and turned to face Olivia. "Let's go for a drive."

"What?" It was only nine o'clock, but Olivia was tired after today and she just wanted to get in bed and go to sleep. Plus, she wasn't too keen on going out in the dark. "A drive where?"

"I have something to show you." Fitz had this excited grin on his face. Olivia didn't see him get excited about things very often, she was intrigued as to what he wanted to show her. "I was going to wait until after your parents left to take you, but I don't want to wait anymore."

"What is it?"

"A surprise."

"Fitz I thought we established that I hate surprises."

"Too bad." Fitz leaned in and kissed Olivia quickly before going into their closet. "Get some shoes on."

"Why are you packing a bag?" Olivia saw Fitz putting clothes in a small overnight bag for himself and her as well. "Where are we going that we need a bag?"

"Will you just put your shoes on? You'll find out soon enough."

Olivia was not up for a drive at all, but she was interested in what Futz had to show her, so she went downstairs to put her shoes back on that she'd taken off earlier. She guessed it was a good thing she hadn't undressed and gotten ready for bed yet.

Once Fitz came downstairs with the small bag he packed, they got into the car and drove off. The car ride was full of easy conversation and singing along to the radio, Olivia did all of the singing. After a while, Olivia began to yawn, tired for the day and this car ride. Fitz still wouldn't tell her where they were going or even how long it would take them to get there. But she figured it was a good distance away if they needed an overnight bag.

Olivia woke up by Fitz rubbing on her arm and calling her name. She had no idea how long she'd been sleeping. When she opened her eyes, Fitz was pulling up on a driveway. She was confused, first how long had they been driving? Where was she? And why were they pulling up to a house? It was dark outside, but there were outside lights on, enough to light the outside of the house. It was beautiful, it was large, but it was beautiful. It was white with brown accents, European style home. Fitz parked at the top of the driveway and Olivia was still confused.

Fitz got out of the car after reaching for their bag in the back seat. He rounded to the other side to open Olivia's door and she accepted his outstretched hand.

"Where are we?" Olivia asked.

"We're on Connecticut. Greenwich to be exact." Fitz answered.

"Fitz what is this?" Olivia asked, but Fitz only smiled at her and lead her to the front door. He reached into his coat pocket and pulled out a set of keys and unlocked the front door. He stepped aside and allowed Olivia to enter first. Her breath was taken away the moment she stepped through the front door. She looked up at the 30- foot ceiling on the entry foyer, leading to an open design living area. There was so much space, so many windows that would let in natural light if it were daytime. She couldn't imagine what this home looked like in the daytime if it was this gorgeous at night. She kept walking straight ahead, not knowing where to go. There was a room to her right and steps leading both downstairs and upstairs, but she kept going straight. She ended up in a completely furnished opened area family room to her right and to her right was a furnished dining room.

She'd forgotten all about Fitz standing at the foyer, she was just taken aback by this house. She kept going taking in every detail of this home. She wound up in a big, beautiful kitchen and it was again fully furnished with a marble island, Subzero refrigerator and a large butler's pantry. Olivia was still just so confused, why had Fitz brought her here? Who house was this? Olivia finally noticed that Fitz was no longer with her and she went back to look for him. She found him standing in the doorway to the family room.

"It's a beautiful house." Fitz began to speak. "New, but built to last. The ceilings are made from Vermont Pinewood. And the fieldstone fireplace was built by hand."

"Fitz what are we doing here?" Olivia asked.

"Do you want to see the upstairs? There's a skylight made of stained glass designed by this amazing local artist

"Fitz seriously, what are we doing here?"

"The house has orchards you know." Fitz kept on talking about the house, ignoring all of Olivia's questions. She was getting frustrated with him ignoring her and still talking about the house. "There is an incredible greenhouse just off the kitchen, you should see the kitchen, the marble countertops are from a quarry just outside of town."

"Fitz stop talking about the house!" Olivia spoke over him. She was going crazy with confusion.

Fitz smiled. "I just wanted you to see it, I couldn't wait any longer."

"What is this place? Why are we here?"

"This house is yours. Ours. I had it built for us." Olivia was stunned silent. "When I found out you were pregnant, I know I didn't have the best reaction, and I didn't always act as if I cared about some things. It took me a while to come to terms that I was going to be a father, but I was thinking about you and our baby. I knew you wanted to have a home for our baby, and I started looking for properties. I had my realtor purposely send house listings I knew you wouldn't like, because I had already bought this land and had this home built for you, for our family. There are too many neighbors for my liking," Fitz chuckled, "But it's a great neighborhood. And the house is big enough for both of our families. Three stories with a finished basement, six bedrooms, seven full baths and four half bathrooms. The entire home has an open style, and there is plenty of natural light that comes in during the day. The back yard is gorgeous, enough room for our daughter to run around in, there's a pool and pool house as well. I built this home with you and our family in mind, every detail. I want this to be you and me raising a family and growing old together in this house. And I was going to wait to show it to you after the weekend, but I just couldn't wait any longer." Olivia was already a mess of tears, listening to Fitz speak about this house and how he built it for her and their baby. Here she was thinking he honestly didn't care what kind of home, or if they even had a home for their baby and he'd built her a home. A home that she'd only seen the first floor of but was already in love. "So, what do you think Livvie?"

So overcome with emotions, not knowing what to say or how to form the words she wanted to say, Olivia briskly made her way to where Fitz was standing and pulled him towards her connecting their lips in a passionate kiss. It had been a while since she felt this riled up and Fitz could feel it too. When they broke apart, Fitz could see the wild desire in her eyes.

Neither one of them know who moved first, but they ended up in the family room with Olivia pushing Fitz down on her chair and her straddling his lap. The good thing about her stomach not being too large was that she was still able to do some things, like straddle her boyfriend. Olivia sat down on his lap with her hands roaming to the buttons of his shirt popping them open one by one. After Fitz unbuttoned his cuffs, she pushed the shirt from his shoulders. She pulled his undershirt over his head and was finally met with his bare chest. She loved running her fingers through the hairs on his chest. She kissed him again as Fitz unbuttoned the buttons in the back of her shirt. Once he finally got them undone he pulled her shirt from her body and worked on getting her black lace bra off. His large hands splayed across her bareback sent shivers down her spine. She curled her arms around his neck, kissing him passionately as she grinds her hips into him, earning a guttural groan.

Fits moved them off of the couch, finding a spot on the floor in front of the fireplace. Luckily there was a nice plush rug underneath them. He sat on the ground, keeping Olivia on top of him. She pushed him back again, so he was lying flat on his back. She bent to kiss his lips once, then twice before biting his earlobe and sucking it in her mouth. Fitz just lay back enjoying the feel of her plump lips on his skin, while unbuckling her pants and pushing them as far as he could get them. It had been so long since they'd kissed this way, he wasn't sure how long he would last. Olivia went to work on unbuckling Fitz's belt followed by the button on his jeans before she pulled them down, kicking hers off the rest of the way in the process. She held his penis in her hand, stroking him with both hands watching his eyes become hooded and his eye becoming dark with desire. She scooted up on his lap, lined herself with his penis and slowly sank down onto him both locking eyes with one another the entire time.

Olivia kept eye contact, as she began to grind on top moving her hips at an agonizingly slow pace. She was in no rush; it had been a while since she felt him inside of her and she was going to relish in every second. Fitz sat up, pulling Olivia as close as she could get with her stomach in the way. He kissed her neck, sucking softly on her skin while playing with her breast with one hand and squeezing her behind with the other. He couldn't keep his hands still, one minute they were there and the next there were somewhere else.

The slow pace Olivia was keeping was beginning to be too much for Olivia, so he brought them back to the floor on their sides. Then he got behind Olivia, lifted her leg and entered her from behind. This new angle brought on a new sensation and Fitz truly didn't know how long he would last in this position. Olivia brought her hand behind them, fisting Fitz's hair, to bring him in for a kiss. Her moans were filling the otherwise quiet room. Every stroke was met with a moan from Olivia and matched with a grunt from Fitz. He could feel her walls getting tighter, her muscles clenching around him. She was close and he was far behind her. He lifted her leg higher to stroke her even deeper, even harder. Beads of sweat was forming on his forehead and he could see sweat forming in the crook of her neck. He bent down kicking his slick skin, sucking her on her flesh. He knew the exact moment she began to orgasm, her body became rigid solid, her hand tightening in his hair and she gasped out for air. Her mouth was wide open, her eyes were squeezed shut and she was in complete ecstasy. Seconds later, Fitz followed her into bliss, release himself inside of her still stroking her as he finally found release.

They were both panting for air, enjoying the aftermath of their passion-filled lovemaking. Both of them satiated.

X

The scene in Vermont is one of my favorite scenes from Scandal I had to include it in my story ;)