Well hello Darlings! Merry Christmas! Yes I know it's not for a few more days but I wanted to post this early just on the off chance I couldn't.

I apologize for waiting so long between chapters. Writers block truly sucks. I hope this chapter makes up for it.

For all of you who have been waiting for this update…this is for you. #FizzAndEmmy are back.

Enjoy and I'll be looking forward to the #GingerbreadCrumbs to drop on the flipside. Thank you for reading and Happy Holidays…

Me's

/

Chapter 22: Lucky In Love

"I feel lucky 'cause I've got my home. I feel lucky 'cause I'm never alone. I feel lucky when I sing a song. But I've never been so lucky in love." – Alexia

St. Patrick's Day (1 month later)

"Cyrus have you heard from the Irish Prime Minister," Fitz questions as Cyrus walks into his office. It had been a busy morning thus far, and Fitz lost track of time. He's been knee deep in paperwork on his desk and on the phone. He did not even think to check the time until Cyrus walked into Oval.

"Yes Sir. Everything is on schedule for the Prime Minister. His car will be arriving through the gates around 11:00 a.m. The Shamrock Ceremony is on schedule for noon," Cyrus explains looking down at Fitz's schedule for the morning and the mess of paperwork that has taken over his desk. "Why do you ask?"

Fitz lifts his eyes from the file before his eyes. "Mr. President," he inquires noting the smile appearing on his face. There is only person on this earth, who can create it. "Is Liv coming?"

"I'm not sure. I invited her and Emmalynn. But I believe Emmalynn has something going on at her preschool today. The teacher is doing a party. Olivia volunteered to help. She had to be there this morning," Fitz explains. "She was unsure if she'd be out on time to make it to the Shamrock Ceremony."

"Oh," Cyrus nods solemnly.

Fitz notes his sadness. "Cy?"

"Ella has been asking for her," he explains. "James has been teaching her to say Libby. She said Ib-Bee the other day when she saw her picture."

"And what about her godfather," Fitz chastises. James has been bringing Ella to see him more often. He's grateful because he misses her.

"Ella's calls you Izz," Cyrus cheeks flush in embarrassment. "When Olivia was over the other weekend with Emmalyn she was teaching Ella to say Fizz." Fitz smirks shaking his head. "I'm sorry."

"Don't be Cy. I like it. Emmalynn stills calls me Fizz. So Olivia and I are Ib-Bee and Izz. It's cute. Don't worry I won't leak it to the Press," he winks. Fitz nods. Cyrus exhales deeply. He watches his body tense before him. "What? I know you are concerned when Olivia and I are going to announce our relationship. We have a plan so don't worry."

"Liv gave me the details. I trust her," he pauses watching Fitz's eyebrows curl upwards. "Of course I trust you but you're a tad bit touchy feely when she's around you."

"Cyrus I know you didn't come into my office to inform me to keep my hands off my girlfriend," Fitz sternly reprimands him.

"No there's something else that was brought to my attention," a file is placed before his eyes.

Fitz opens it. "Cyrus," he growls unamused. "What the hell is thi?"

"Names of appropriate women the press believe you are dating," he explains. Fitz quickly glances at the names. Since his return a month ago from the most romantic Valentine's Day weekend he's ever experienced, there has been much speculation who he is dating.

In a formal Press Conference he announced a week after he was in New York City, he was involved in a committed and loving relationship with an incredible woman. He was officially off the market. Olivia and her team sat down him and Olivia both to hash out them coming out publically. Olivia was not ready fully for the world to know, but Fitz making a statement he was seeing someone was a good idea.

Fitz stood at the Press Box proudly stating, "Yes I had my first date with a beautiful woman over Valentine's Day weekend. I am relieved to say I was able to sweep her off her feet. Not only did this breathtaking woman give me a second date, but she agreed to be my girlfriend. For privacy reasons, I will not release her name but because of her I feel different and I'm happy."

The press chuckled. "Is it safe to say Mr. President that you are off the market?"

"Oh I have been technically off the market Ladies and Gentlemen from the moment I saw her. It just took me a while to woo her properly," he admits. His cheeks flush. "My job is kind of hindrance," he teases.

"Well if you can't get a date Mr. President then all of us single guys are doomed," a senior reporter states.

"Truth," Fitz states with a hearty laugh.

"So there has been more than one date," Noah Baker questions. Fitz adoring smirk answer his question. "And when will we meet her?"

"When the time is right. For the moment I am keeping her name to myself. To be honest I am not ready to share her with you little rays of Sunshine as of yet." He comment caused the entire room to laugh.

"We promise we won't scare her away President Grant," Kimberly Mitchell announces.

"Oh I think she can handle you all without any trouble. My girlfriend is…," he stops attempting to think of the correct words. "A Gladiator in a Suit," he states. If anyone knows Olivia, this will help their case. Fitz answers a few more general questions before he steps away.

As he readies to leave the room he hears, "Will you at least tell us Sir, if she's willing to give you public date?"

"Only she can answer that, but since she is my girlfriend already, I'm leaning towards a lot more than of us spending time together," he implies. There are whispers through the room. "Thank you," Fitz states and he leaves.

Since Fitz's stateme, the press has been throwing names out of women they believe he's dating. If he's been photographed with a woman recently, there is a picture in the file before his eyes, with the words, "Is this Grant's Girl?"

"Grant's girl – Cyrus really," he snaps tossing the photos across his desk then standing up. Each photo, at least a dozen is with a different career orientated woman. All younger and of different races. He moves to stand by the window not seeing a picture of Olivia. His frustration level grows.

"Sir," Cyrus pauses slowly stepping towards Fitz. He watches him retrieve his phone from his jacket pocket. His home screen is one of them in New York City, dancing in the Rainbow room in the perfect waltz pose.

Since his romantic weekend with Olivia, he has not seen her much during the week, only on weekends. They would come over after lunch on Saturday and leave Sunday night after dinner. But not this last weekend because Emmalynn came with an ear infection. The virus which caused her ears to hurt is contagious but not the ear infection itself. She was running a fever over one-hundred degrees.

Fitz missed his girls desperately. Going to bed with her, waking up were what got him through the week. If he was honest with himself, he missed everything little thing Olivia did when they shared a bed. It wasn't even the sex. Yes at times he wanted to strip her bare, and take her all over his bedroom, but then there were instances where he just wanted to hold her skin to skin.

Those nights where she'd slept on his chest, he caressed every part of her he could touch until she was asleep. He longed to feel this connection to a woman his entire life. At times he'd lift her face and watch her sleep for as long as he could. He was afraid he'd close his eyes and she'd be gone. Of course it was silly, but he never knew he could love a woman as much as he loves her.

He loved being President but he loved her so much more. They have not been intimate since their first weekend back. They literally jumped each other once the kids were all asleep. He made love to her in his bed and didn't stop till the wee hours of the morning. Fitz had worn himself and Olivia out.

They were sleeping so soundly neither realized Emmalynn snuck in the room in the morning. She got into bed on Olivia's side. Olivia woke up with both her daughter and Fitz curled around her. She asked Olivia why and Fitz didn't have a shirt on. Fitz responded with, "Well Emmy your Mommy keeps me so warm I don't need a shirt."

Olivia stared at him. "Mommy. You always cold at night? Is Fitz hot stuff?" Her child's innocent words caused Olivia to break out laughing. Now it was Fitz's turn to hide under the covers.

"Yes Pumpkin," she replies to her daughter. "He's better than my electric blanket." Fitz peeks out from under the covers as his hand caress her naked body. She whacks him. His mouth drops open. "Can you be a good girl and wake up Karen and Jerry? That way we can make breakfast." Emmalynn agrees.

"Momma," Emmalynn coos stopping at the door. "Do you think the agents could get us some Dunkin Donuts? Or is Fitz not allowed to have it cuz he's POTUS?"

"Emmy Pumpkin," Fitz utters. "I can have anything I want. Go get my kid up please?" She hurries out of the room with a huge smile on her face.

The moment the door shuts, Fitz hauls his HOT body on top of hers. "Fitz," she whimpers feeling his hardened member positioned between her lower lips. His eyes darken. "We can't," she breathes as he slips inside of her. "Not enough time," her voice breaks as her body moves in perfect harmony with his.

"There's always time for a quickie Livy," he growls just over her lips swirling his hips in a circular motion. "I've dreamt of making love to you in the morning in MY bed since we can back from New York."

She holds his face before his lips connect with hers. "Is that so? What if I don't want a quickie," she teases. They do not have time for more. If the kids were not there, he'd keep her in bed all morning, then continue their love making in the shower. Unfortunately with his two teenagers, and Emmalynn waiting, they can't.

"Well I'll make it up to you tonight Sweetheart," he coos ghosting his lips over hers. "Until then," he kisses her deeply before stretching his arms out to hover over her and thrust into her hard. She grips the headboard as his hips propel into her. She bites her lips to stop herself from screaming as her fire within her bubbles out of control.

"FITZ," she whispers in a high pitch squeal. Her walls clamp around his shaft hard, sucking him deeply into her channel. Three more hard gyrations, pumps and he's spilling his seed inside her body. His arms fold. He places his HOT body on top of hers. Her eyes flutter open connecting with his.

"What?" Her legs wrap around his waist not permitting him to move out of her. "Livy?"

"I. Love. You," she whimpers from out of nowhere. She buries her face into his neck with their bodies still attached. He's still hard. It amazes Fitz each time after they make love, he never fully softens. He wants more of her especially when she utters those three little words.

"Livy," he purrs into her ear. "You know how those words affect me when we're done. God I want you so much. I swear I'm the lucky man in the world to have you."

She smiles. "The feeling is mutual." Her lips press against his. He groans into her lips. Fitz is more than willing to forget breakfast with the kids. But right now it's not practical. There will be plenty of time for them to enjoy each other later.

"Mr. President," Cyrus addresses him formally returning him to the situation at hand. His relationship with Olivia. He's grateful she came along. She made Fitz a better man and President. But at times it is infuriating because he is distracted.

Cyrus always figured it out when Olivia was in the forefront of his mind. Not only would he get this far away – dreamy look in his eyes, but a small smile would appear on his face. Fitzgerald Grant only smiled in that manner for one person, besides his children, Olivia Pope.

"Cyrus," Fitz growls turning to him with a rage in his eyes. "How come Olivia's name is not on this list? Or there are no pictures of…," but he's stopped in his tracks when Cyrus places a tablet in his hands. On it is a file of many photos of them together at the White House. Fitz had no idea there were so many.

From Ella's Christening, the reception that followed, and Sophia's the First Halloween he planned for Emmalynn. Fitz has personal pictures of them encrypted on his personal computer. Only a certain password would access the photos. But these pictures were taken by his official White House photographer.

"We are waiting for the right time to release these to the press," Cyrus smirks. "Olivia has copies of everything, including ones you both only have. She knew you'd be pissed when you wouldn't see her."

He sighs deeply. "Did she now?" Cyrus laughs. "Then how come her name isn't on this last of eligible women I could be dating. Because we all know Cyrus there is only one woman I'm with. How could the Press not figure out it is Liv," he questions in a disbelieving tone. "We left all the appropriate bread crumbs."

"Because she's Olivia Pope. There were reporters questioning her right after your statement but she denied it. All she said was that you two are…"

"Close because we're Ella's godparents," Fitz finishes.

"She left the statement open ended to see if the Press would run with it. They'll catch on don't worry. Kimberly Mitchell is vying for you two," Cyrus explains with a smile. Fitz eyes raise. "Also so are all the ladies on The View."

"The View," Fitz gaffs. Cyrus finds the latest clip. "Apparently Whoopi Goldberg has been stating for months you've had your eye on Olivia Pope. The other co-hosts including Joy Behar, Sherri Shepard, Jenny McCarthy, and Meredith Viera agree. They've said it publically."

Fitz watches the clip. Whoopi Goldberg is speaking, "I'm telling you. President Fitzgerald Grant is dating a sister." He looks at the date. This clip was right after he announced he was dating. The crowd erupts in laughter. "Our President is dating an incredibly smart, beautiful, strong-willed, single mother, woman of color."

"Oh come on Whoopi did President Grant call and tell you he's dating Olivia Pope," Joy Behar challenges. "Just because you've seen her at official White House events does not mean he's with her privately."

"Look at his body language," Whoopi counters. "Can't you see where the man's eyes are?" A pictures is shown of Fitz with Olivia standing in front him.

"Now Whoopi come on," Sherri chastises. "Are you going to say on national television that the Leader of the Free world is an Ass-man – that he likes the bootie."

The crowd erupts in laughter. "Look where his eyes are everyone. You tell me. And if President Grant is watching, you know I'm right. He's definitely enjoying The View." The crowd laughs even more. They break for commercial.

Fitz is embarrassed. Cyrus stares at him. "What?"

"I love her assets Cy. And Whoopi is right. I like big butts and I cannot," Cyrus hands flies up in the air stopping him from finishing his statement. He's about to get reprimanded but one of his secretary's interrupts.

"I'm sorry Sir but Miss Pope is on the line."

/

Not So Lucky…

He shares a glance with Cyrus. "Ten minutes tops Sir. The Irish Prime Minister should be on his way."

Fitz nods. He walks over to his phone. "Hi," he utters as he rests the receiver against his ear.

"Hello," Olivia murmurs back. Instantly something is wrong. He picks up on unfamiliar sounds around her. "Livy what's wrong. I know you well enough to know when you are not all right." She does not answer. "Emmy?"

"She's okay Fitz," she murmurs. "I'm just having a really bad morning. I called you because I wanted to hear your voice."

"Liv tell me," he pleads. There is definitely something off with her voice.

"I had plans of coming today. To be with you in this beautiful green dress," she sniffles. "It was white with Shamrocks on the bottom hem, across my chest going all the way to my back. It sleeveless but classy."

"Wait you're coming." The excitement in his voice breaks her. "But I thought Emmalynn's school has something going on. A party?"

"It did. Her teacher got sick so the party got postponed until tomorrow. So it freed up my morning. But then," the stutters on the verge of tears.

He fears she changed her mind about the dress or not to come. "Livy it is perfectly fine if you didn't want to be here. You know I wouldn't be able to hide my feelings for you once I saw you. It wasn't our plan to go public yet," he explains hoping to reassure her.

Olivia was going to come by later with Emmalynn to meet the Irish Prime Minister. Fitz arranged an intimate meal with traditional Irish food in the Residence with the Prime Minister, his wife and children who made the trip. Their kids wanted to meet Karen and Jerry.

"I know but I planned on surprising you," she sniffles. "I could be your lucky charm."

"Sweetheart you are my lucky charm," he coos. Now he hears her really crying and strange noises in the background. "Livy where are you?"

"Fitz promise me you won't do anything stupid. I'm calling you because I don't want you hear this from anyone else but me," she speaks gently keeping an even tone. "The last thing we need is you storming out of the White House."

Now he's scared. "Olivia what is going on?" He hears more voices. "Where are you?" She does not answer him. He hears beeping noises. "Liv what is going on? Are you watching Grey's Anatomy?"

"Excuse me Miss Pope but I need to check your vitals again," Fitz clearly hears through the line.

"Olivia," Fitz growls. "Are you at the hospital?"

"Yes." The nurse steps out her room. "I was on my way to see you. I was rear-ended at a red light. The person behind me was texting and driving. He didn't realize the light had turned red and I had stopped."

Fitz stands up at his desk. "Liv are you right?" Tom hears his elevated voice. He rushes into the Oval. Fitz writes down what happened. He shows it to Tom. Without a word Tom rushes out of the office to find out all he can about her accident.

"Yes but I think my SUV is totaled," she sniffles. "I have a bump on my head and the seat belts crushed my ribs a little. I'm a tad bit sore." Her heart begins to race thinking of her little girl. If Emmalynn had been back there she could have been seriously injured.

"TOM GET THE CAR," he calls out.

"Fitz no," she begs. "You are needed there for the Shamrock Presentation Ceremony. As President you cannot just leave."

"Like fucking hell I can't," he growls. "I belong with you." He thinks of Karen and Jerry. He will tell them after they get home from school. If not they will insist of going to the hospital.

"You can't. Your place is there," she reminds him gently. "The country is your…,"

"The Nation is NOT my first priority Olivia. You and my family are." He is beginning to pace around his desk with the chorded phone. "Liv I need to see you. The Prime Minister and I are great friends. I'm sure he'll understand. I can postpone the event till later," he voices with conviction.

"You most certainly will not," she raises her voice. "So help me if I do not see you on TV on time with shamrocks in your hands, I won't be your lucky charm. I'll turn into your worst nightmare." Fitz smirks. Even injured she sounds sexy. "Do you understand me Mister?" Fitz exhales deeply. "I will getting out of here late tonight or tomorrow morning."

"Liv?"

"I'm am texting Tom right now. He says if he catches you leaving he'll tackle you to the ground for me," she warns with a smile appearing on her face.

"Hey he works for me not you," Fitz hisses. This woman, his woman is too much.

"Yes but he says I bake better cookies than you," she teases.

He nods. "Now that I have to agree with." He plops down in his chair releasing a labored breath.

"Promise me Livy you are really okay," he mutters into the line. She hears it in his voice. He's scared half to death. She could have been killed today because some jerk felt the need to answer his text instead of waiting until it was safe.

"Yes. I just have a massive headache. I won't be alone. Huck and Quinn are on the way. Stephen is coming with Abby. Emmalynn will be by after school. I'll see you later," she begs. "Please do you your job. I will be just fine."

"Fine," he snaps.

"Fitz." He does not respond. His hands go through his hair. He is weighing his choices. Stay here do his job or head to the hospital to be with the woman he loves. It's been over a week since he's been in her presence. All he needs right now is to look into her eyes, hold her close, kiss her soft lips to be reassured she is all right.

Tom steps into the Oval. He stands guard at one door, then another agents blocks the other. "Sorry Sir. Miss Pope's orders. Mr. Beene is on his way also."

"Dammit," he hisses clearing off one side of his desk.

"I love you Mr. President – so very much, more than you could ever know," Olivia expresses with pure adoration in her voice.

He inhales sharply into the line. "And I love you more than anything Livy. I will call you as soon as I'm done getting my Shamrocks. I swear to God if you are not all right. If I get there and you are hurt more than you are letting on so help me woman…," he snaps harshly. His heart races within his chest just thinking of her being hurt.

"Handsome I would tell you if I knew more. I'm not keeping anything from you. I swear it. The doctors are coming in to take me for some tests." Those words get his attention. She hears his breathing increase. "Just an x-ray to make sure nothing is broken. I'll talk to you after your shamrocks. Okay?"

"I guess," he quibbles. He's allowing her to win but only for now. "Do not get out of that bed. Do you hear me?" She cannot suppress a snicker. "OH-LIV-IA."

"Yes Sir," she teases in a low tone. "Have I ever mentioned how much I love you when you are bosy? It's so sexy Mr. President." Fitz shakes his head. Even in the ER she sounds hot. "I'll talk to you later."

"Okay," he sighs. "Olivia please…,"

"I will. I love you Mr. President."

"I love you too Livy," he murmurs into the line. He disconnects the call. Tom and the other agent leave the Oval giving him a few moments alone before Cyrus arrives. Fitz explains what happened with Olivia. "No Cyrus I'm not cancelling plans."

Cyrus has to sit down. "Cy?"

"I thought for sure you'd be out of here," he questions.

"My girl convinced me to stay and do my job," Fitz huffs standing up then leaning on the front of his desk. "I really hate her right now." Cyrus chuckles. "What?"

"I never thought I'd see the day where when it came to her, you'd wouldn't blow your entire day events to go to her. This is especially the case considering her last hospital stay," Cyrus reminds him. The first time Olivia was hospitalized her fever had been too high.

"She made me promise. Olivia is expecting to see me on TV shortly." He glances down at the time. They head off to meet the Irish Prime Minister and his family as they arrive at the White House.

/

Luck of the Irish… (Late Afternoon)

Olivia was moved to a private room shortly after lunch time. They wanted to move her earlier but she insisted to stay in put until after the Shamrock Ceremony at the White House. Fitz had on his best politician smile with matching charcoal grey suit, dark green shirt, and black – white tie with shamrocks.

Abby and Stephen make an appearance in the afternoon. Huck and Quinn were holding down OPA until they returned. Harrison was working on a case but was on the phone with her on and off. He kept checking on her, making sure she did not need anything.

She could hear Abby the instant she arrived. Then Stephen's voice to tell her to calm down and relax. A very patient nurse showed them to Olivia's room. Abby practically ran down the hallway. By the time she got to her room, her heals were off. Stephen was out of breath. All Olivia could do was chuckle at her best friends.

Abby fussed over her, checking every inch of her body. "Abby stop it I'm fine."

"You are not fine," she held up her nails. "Your new manicure is messed up. And look you have broken nails."

"Abby," Stephen chastises.

"What." Abby pauses. "Did you call him? Do I need to call…,"

"He was the first call I made Abby," Olivia grumbles in protest. "I couldn't let him see it on the news."

"And he is NOT here," Stephen hisses. He begins to walk out of the room but Olivia beckons for him to come to her. He complies. "Liv where is The…,"

"Fitz," she whispers unsure of who is around, "is greeting the Prime Minister. He had a job to do. That was paramount. Did you forget that was today? I was supposed to be there."

"Paramount," Stephen snips scooting Abby out of his way. He sits in front of her. "Liv you are the most important person in his life. He should be here with you. He made the wrong choice."

"He did not," Olivia warns. "Today's events could not be rearranged. I am fine Stephen. Besides a ruined manicure, my ribs are a little sore and I got a bump on my head. My test results should be back later. When you see my boyfriend, you best behave. He's doing what has to be done. I am not going anywhere."

Abby sits on the opposite side of the bed. "You could have been killed. Have you see the rear end of your SUV? That lunatic who hit you should be in jail."

Her comment is enough to cause Olivia to wonder. "Do either one of you have any idea what happened to the driver?"

"I heard he was in surgery," Stephen explained. "Abby took off the down the hall to find you and I heard the nurses. I guess he has an awfully serious head injury. His car is worse than yours."

"Was he alone," Olivia questions on the verge of tears.

Stephen brings her into his arms. "I don't know Liv. I can check."

"Please," she begs. Stephen kisses her cheek before heading out of her room. Fifteen minutes later he returns. The gentlemen who hit her was alone but he has a family; a very pregnant wife and young son, close to Emmalynn's age. Her eyes meet Abby's. "If his family is here, please check if they need anything?"

"Liv are you serious," Abby heckles in a high pitch tone. "THIS MAN HIT YOU."

"Yes Abigail I am aware. But it is not his family's fault. His wife and children had nothing to do with what happened. Just go check and see all right," Abby crosses her arms not moving from her bed. "Please do this for me as Emmy's Godmother."

Abby's eyes widen. Olivia smirks. She will get her way. "Using my precious Godchild against me is so wrong." Olivia rolls her eyes. Abby is gone for almost a half hour. The family only had the one car. "Please help them secure a rental. Charge it to OPA." Abby is ready to kill her. "His wife could deliver anytime within the next four weeks. They need a car Abby. And with their son, you must have a car with kids."

"Liv," she spats. "Are you sure that bump didn't damage your brain."

"Abby," Stephen barks. "Just do as she says. Liv is our boss. When she cannot be there I am in charge." Olivia suppresses a giggle. "Go!"

"You are so not getting laid tonight," Abby announces flippantly. She waltzes up to him then whispers in his ear. "And I shaved my lower lips too. Soft as a baby's bottom dearie." Stephen's mouth hangs open. Olivia would love to run away right now. That was more than she needed to know.

Abby sashays out of the room. Stephen's ears are now red. "Fix it later Stephen because if hear you two got caught going at it in an on-call room I swear I'll fire you both." Stephen cannot answer. That would be one of his fiancée's fantasies. He chooses not to formulate a response. It would be unwise.

Abby returns from speaking to the injured man's wife. She is beyond grateful. Abby did not tell her who she works for but it won't be long before it is discovered. A short time later, Abby and Stephen leave for OPA knowing Huck, Quinn and Harrison are eager to pay Olivia a visit. Also Emmalynn must be picked up from preschool.

/

Hospital Visitors…

"We'll see you later Liv," Stephen mutters kissing the top of her head. Abby assures her she handled everything and they step out of the door. As they make it half way down the hallway they stop. "Abby?"

"What," she groans. Stephen nudges her to look towards the newly closed elevator. "Is that who I think it is?"

"Oh Fuck," Abby snips under her breath. "Olivia is going to lose her shit. How did they find out she was even here?" Stephen points to the news ticker on BNC news. "Never mind."

The person walking past them stops realizing who Abby and Stephen are. "Is she all right? You work for Olivia right?"

"Yes we do Ma'am," Abby answers with saccharine in her voice.

"Liv is right down this hall right," the woman questions.

"Yes." Abby states the room number. "She'll be surprised to see you."

The woman thanks Abby and Stephen and proceeds down the hallway to Olivia's room. She stops at her door seeing the doctor in with Olivia giving an exam. She sits in the hallway. Less than ten minutes pass and Olivia is alone again. The woman exhales the knocks on Olivia's door.

"Come on in," Olivia replies thinking it's a member of her team. She mutes TV. "I was beginning to wonder when I'd see you," her words catch in her throat as she glances at the polished woman before her eyes. She blinks several times. "Mrs. -,"

"Please no formalities Liv. I've been coming by to my Granddaughter every other month if Chris's Father is out of town," Christopher's mother states approaching Olivia's bed carefully. "I was supposed to see Emmy this weekend."

Olivia eyes widen not believing Christopher's mother is in her hospital room. "How did you find out I was in a car accident?"

"News tickers on BNC and when I called OPA Quinn told me. I hope that is all right," his mother inquires apprehensively. "I came as soon as my husband left." Olivia remembered he was going out of town this week.

"Does he know you're here," Olivia stutters. "I mean your…"

"Rumpelstiltskin," his mother chuckles. Olivia eyes grow large. "Yes I've known you've called him that for a very long time. Chris did it also when he was young and a teenager, when his father turned mean and nasty. It's fitting." Olivia nods. Chris's mother approaches the bed. "May I," she gestures to a nearby chair.

"Please," Olivia whimpers. It has been some time since Chris's mother has been to see her. She saw her once before the holidays and a couple times since. Emmalynn still believes that she is only a good friend of her Mommy's.

"Was Emmy…," her voice breaks curious if her only Grandchild was in the car with her mother.

"No. She's at preschool." Olivia notices the tears forming in her eyes. "She's perfectly fine. The back end of my SUV is not however. Our Emmy could have been really hurt," she utters reaching for a tissue.

"Well thank goodness she wasn't. Her Dad is certainly watching over you both," his mother offers these delicate words of comfort to Olivia. At times Olivia can still sense Christopher is with her. Remarkably she felt him today right after the car hit her. The times when she still requires his love, he's there from in the heavens to keep her safe – for Fitz.

Fitz.

Inwardly her heart races within her chest praying to anyone listening he does not show up at this very moment. Quickly she messages Cyrus to make sure he's still at the White House with Chris's mother watching. She cannot see Olivia's phone but it must be important. He responds Fitz is there but highly distracted.

"Keep him there Cy. Mrs. Rumple is here," is all she types in return.

"Oh shit," Cyrus responds.

"Everything okay," his mother inquires.

"Yes. I just had to do send a quick message to someone," Olivia explains.

"I see," his mother scoots closer sitting on the bed. She holds Olivia's hands.

"You okay," Olivia softly questions sensing there is something wrong. Stray tears sneak out of Chris's mother's eyes. She quickly wipes them away. "Hey," Olivia coos squeezing her hands. "I'm all right. Emmy wasn't with me." Chris' mom nods. "I'm not hurt. Well not really anyway." They locks eyes. "What?"

"I was terrified you were seriously hurt. You are all I have left of my son. You could have…," - His mother does not have to utter the words. Olivia already knows.

"Look all I broke was a few nails," Olivia states as if it's no big deal she was in a car accident and walked away practically uninjured.

"You could have died. I wouldn't be able to see her," his mother whimpers.

"Oh I make sure you could see her whenever you want," Olivia assures her. She squeezes her hands.

"But my only granddaughter would have been all alone in this world." The woman before Olivia stares into her eyes daring her to challenge her words. They have merit up to point.

"Emmalynn wouldn't be alone. She has my parents, my Gladiators, her godparents, my…," Olivia freezes before she speaks.

"Boyfriend," Chris's mom inquires wistfully. "President Fitzgerald Grant." Olivia gasps hearing her former fiancée's Mother utter Fitz's name. Her heart beats rapidly within her chest. Her mouth is parched.

She is definitely not dumb. When she has been Emmalynn she's spoken of one man – her Fizz or Fitz. There is only one man she is keenly aware has that name. She's seen their picture together from a baptism last fall, and of course carefully placed photos in Olivia's apartment. Olivia is not hiding the fact she has met Fitz.

"Mrs…-"

"Shh," she cups Olivia's soft cheeks to calm her down. Her smile grows as she gazes into Olivia fearful but loving eyes. As Olivia eyes join with hers for a split second she spots her Christopher looking back at her. Her mouth falls open. The family resemblance is uncanny. "Chris?"

His mother smiles. "Yes my son has my eyes."

Olivia is speechless. "I…-"

"Oh my dear you are all right," she exhales. She wipes a tear from Olivia's cheek.

"How did you figure it out that I am dating The President," Olivia questions. Chris' mother explains how. Not only from Emmalynn talking about Fitz constantly but spending time with him in his big White House. How much she loves Karen and Jerry. The photos she's seen in the Press of them from Ella's Baptism, and of course there are pictures of them all together in her apartment. Olivia did not hide the fact she is with Fitz. She never thought Christopher's mom would pay attention.

She was wrong.

But yet she can sense she has nothing to fear either.

"I'm sorry I didn't tell you sooner," Olivia admits.

"Oh my dear I understand why you didn't. Trust me," his mother states with conviction. A silent chat happens between Olivia and Chris's mom. "And from what I can tell he loves you very much. Both of you. I also saw my family's pin on his lapel."

"Oh my God I am so sorry. How could I be so insensitive," Olivia blurts out. "But Chris told me…,"

"I know what my son told you Liv. He never felt worthy of it. My father gave it to him. Of course his Dad wants it for himself," she growls rolling her eyes. "But Chris wouldn't give it to him. He flat out refused. Chris gave it to you for reason and now I comprehend why." Olivia's eyes narrow. "Not only for Emmalynn but to give it to your person – President Fitzgerald. He's a good man, no matter what my ass-hat husband believes."

Olivia chuckles. "Ass-hat."

"Would asshole of the earth be a more precise adjective…," Both women break out into a total fit of giggles. A few good minutes pass until they both stop. "I will come by and see you and Emmalynn when you are better. Call me," his mother begins to step away but Olivia grips her hand. "Liv?"

"I'd like to tell your Granddaughter who you really are Mrs… I mean," but before Olivia can utter the words Chris's mom breaks down and cries. "Hey no tears," Olivia pleads. "Do you not want me to?"

"Yes of course I do. It's just I didn't think you wanted Emmy to know who I really am to her." The sadness in her voice is evident.

"Why? You are her father's mother. Emmy knows of you – her other Grandmother. I've been thinking about this since for a bit." Actually Olivia has been thinking about it since her return from her weekend away with Fitz. She has not spoken to anyone really about it except for her own mother. Miss Alice agreed. Emmalynn should get to know her other Grandmother.

"Are you sure?"

"I am," Olivia answers with no reservations. "I'm just worried about…,"

"Oh don't worry about Mr. Rumple. I'll deal with him when the time is right. He's been on my shit list for quite a while. I am tired of his treatment of you. It's time he deals with it. None of what happened was your fault. You deserve to be happy with your daughter and she should be a part of my life at least," Chris's mother utters with determination.

"Good."

"The President does he know…,"

"About Chris. Yes," she sighs. His mother shakes her head no. "Not everything. I haven't told him." She sighs deeply. "What if?"

"The President loves you. He is not going away. From what I've seen – only in pictures – you are the love of his life," she utters with confidence. "Chris's father is mine. Even now. I just wish he'd stop being an ass. He used to be a good man. In the last few years he's lost so much. I am not just talking about his only son. He lost…,"

"I understand," Olivia admits easily.

"But don't let my husband's stupidly dictate how you raise Emmalynn and where you truly belong Olivia. President Grant is a good man."

"He's the best man for me and your Granddaughter." Olivia's guest kisses her brow. "I'll call you after I get home." His mother leaves. Later in the afternoon Emmalynn is with her along with Huck and Quinn. They keep Olivia company until after dinner time. Abby makes a quick stop to pick up Emmalynn.

"Mommy I'll get you in the morning, with Fitz," she coos snuggling her mother on the bed.

Olivia eyes meet Abby's. "Honey Stephen I believe is picking up Mommy. Fitz has to work."

"Tommy," Emmalynn coos Tom's name. Emmalynn is the only one allowed to call him Tommy.

"Pumpkin he has to guard Fitz," Abby explains. "Liv your parents also will be coming soon."

"Yes I know. They were out of town all day. I told my Momma I was fine but she insisted on coming even though it is getting late," Olivia grumbles in protest not wanting her mother to make a fuss but it's too late. They were out of town.

Emmalynn kisses her mother goodbye. Olivia is in her room alone. Abby phones once they arrive at her apartment. She gives her daughter goodnight kisses over phone. By nine pm Olivia's eyes are drooping closed. She is so tired. Her eyes close.

As if she's hears faint footsteps enter her room. The shoes squeak as they come into contact with the floor. Then a strong pair of arms wrap around her in the bed. One hand slides behind her. The other is one her stomach. She's being drawn closer. Then a hand cups her face lifting it upwards. A thumb graces her lips.

Then she feels IT.

Him.

His lips.

"Fitz," she murmurs.

Her eyes fluttered open before her mind wanders too far off places. She felt helpless and alive all at once. Fitz kissed her softly at first, terrified he'd hurt her. But as her fingers tugged at his curls, she spurred him on unknowingly to deepen it. With swift gradual movements of his mouth and tongue, he began to kiss her with increasing intensity.

He had been dizzy all day, literally spinning like a top in circles afraid she'd be lost to him. He had to get to her. Kiss her. Drink her in. Taste her. Hold her. Prove to himself she was all right. His mouth parted her shaking lips sending tremors down to her toes, evoking feeling in her only Fitz could create.

When both needed air, their lips separated. Their eyes fluttered open. Her brown orbs connected with stormy blues above hers.

"Livy, are you hurt…,"

"Shh…," she coos cradling his face in her open palm. "Hi."

And with that one word he knew he was not only the luckiest man in the world, but lucky in love.

"Hi."

/

TBC…

Yes that is it for now. I hope you all enjoyed this update. Yes you got some quick Holiday Sugars to make up for the length between updates. I offer my sincere apologies for not updating this one as much as I should. In 2018 I hope to do better.

Next chapter there will probably be another time jump. Trying to move this story along as well. Thank you for reading.

Happy Holidays to wherever you are…

Me's