Hello #Gladiators
Here is your long overdue chapter for this fic. I apologize for not updating in so long but I got extremely stuck. So I hope you enjoy this.
Some interesting events happen in this chapter. I hope you are ready.
As always thank you for taking the time to read. Your support means the world to me.
Peace, love and Pumpkins…
Me's
/
Chapter 17: "She's My Person…."
"In all the World, there is no heart for me like yours. In all the World, there is no love for you like mine." – Maya Angelou
Man to Man…
Any remaining oxygen in in Elijah's lungs escapes quickly. It wisps out before he can stop it leaving him winded. He struggles to inhale and exhale sitting on Olivia's couch staring at the man before his very eyes. He's literally trying to remember how to breathe. This man rendered him speechless – he's mute, with five words.
Olivia Pope is my World.
Those five little words just literally rocked Elijah Samuel Pope's world.
He's visibly shaken. Those five little words continue to bounce off his skull. His eyes freeze and his mouth clamps shut unable to utter a sound. His entire body has stopped working gawking at the man sitting before him.
Wait.
His hand covers his mouth.
This is not any man – or some common "white boy" after his sister just too only get into her pants and use her incredible talent to get ahead in life nor make himself look good around his peers.
The Leader of the Free World, President Fitzgerald Thomas Grant III boldly stated to her only brother, HIS little sister is his ENTIRE WORLD.
Could it be the most powerful man on the planet ONLY wants his baby sister because…could it be, Eli narrow's his eyes taking Fitz in, is he falling in love with her. How could he love her? He barely knows her. She's easy to love. Many suitors have said they've loved her before, but all fail in comparison to Fitzgerald Grant.
There's a conviction in his eyes.
"Just in case you did not hear me the first time, your sister, Olivia has become my entire World," Fitz speaks clearly a second time stressing each word separately.
Eli falls backwards. His back hits the cushions behind him. The wind is literally knocked out of him. His mind is still attempting to process this moment. The President of the United States is more than challenging him, he's daring him to object to his feelings towards his sister.
"Whether you approve of my blossoming relationship with Olivia – it's of little consequence, I am Not. Going. Anywhere. She is in my in life to stay as I am in hers. So before you say I'm not the right man for her, don't judge me or my twin daughters before you get a chance to know us and how much we care deeply for your sister," Fitz admission leaves Eli silent.
Fitz leans forward daring Eli to protest. He expected to come in here and have a heated argument, not be the only one talking. It's a surprise. He's used to being the most powerful man in the room, but this is not the Oval Office. He's not speaking to a World Leader. He's talking to the woman's he needs like air, older protective brother.
Eli observes Fitz closely curious if he realizes what he is starting to notice. His sister captured the most powerful man on the planet's heart. He, in the beginning fought his demons, until he finally and literally caught her. Since the instant she fell into his arms, Fitz's feelings have intensified.
Eli sees it in The President's blue piercing eyes. It's there plain as day.
But has The President come to realize this himself? If he has, would he have boldly stated to her only brother without fear or reservations. He's read various articles about The President stating on he's a man who truly leads and loves with all his heart.
It is evident how he presents himself around his twin daughters and when he's questioned about his late wife. He refused to date after her death, not wanting to tarnish her memory. He rarely spoke about her publically. But those close to him knew how much Fitz loved Bellamy. Images of a devastated man and father flooded the news after her funeral.
Those images haunted Eli – reminding him of his own Mother's passing. Losing a loved one is never easy. The pain is always there. He's heard interviews of Fitz when his wife was alive when he was Governor. She was with him and Bellamy, their daughters were his entire world. There were a perfect family.
Until this very moment he did not believe he'd be able to move on. No man before The President EVER called his sister their entire world.
Their father loved both his children. He was a doting, loving until the unthinkable happened. Eli and Olivia where their parents' world until Maya, their mother died. He was fourteen. Olivia only twelve. He vowed to protect Olivia from cradle to grave, until the last breath of air leaves his body.
It's his job as her older and only brother. He's looked out for her since she was born. It's a promise he's kept. It's not about to change, or is it?
Any "man" he uses the term loosely, who has entered his sister's life in the past only wanted to use her either for their own selfish and unfortunately physical reasons. Olivia had come to him crying when a guy she dated in college only dated her until they slept together. Once they had sex, he moved on.
Any partner she paired up with BEFORE Max, only danced with her to get ahead. To learn his sister's incredible talent and then once getting everything they could, they'd move on. Olivia would pour her heart and soul into helping a fellow dancer man or woman. They only took from her – never giving her anything but heartache. Eli was tired of seeing his sister get used and abused.
Their father, who Eli despises with every muscle in his body, saw Olivia as a way to get ahead in the political arena. "Monty" realized as Olivia grew into a young woman, she'd turn heads of not only boys her own age, but older men. It helped his sister was a talented, accomplished dancer.
Her poise and grace followed her everywhere in life, which their father wanted to capitalize on. When she came for holidays or summer break, their father would have appropriate suitors for her to date from a certain circle of friends he kept. "Monty" enjoyed politics before Maya passed away but engrossed himself in it after her death.
So much so, Olivia and Eli saw the drastic change in him. They hated what their father had become.
Olivia most of all.
"Monty" pushed her to casually date, and show any politicians son a good time. He hoped Olivia would stick with the relationship long enough so a marriage could have happened. His sister was quick to figure it out. As soon as she could afford it, and graduated, she left home and has hardly spoke to their father.
Their father broke her along with the stream of people who used, hurt and broke her heart. Elijah spent many nights with his baby sister wiping her tears listening to her giving up on love and EVER finding the one. Olivia believed he didn't exist. If he did he would never catch her because in her eyes, she wasn't good enough.
She only allowed her true self to come out on the dance floor with Max.
Max.
Max has been her partner through most of Juilliard. He not only became her partner, but best friend, besides Abby Whelan. Not one person could break through the wall she built around her heart to protect herself from getting hurt. Too many had done so and succeeded including their own Father.
"Mr. Pope," Fitz addresses him formally standing knowing Olivia is waiting next door. "I see you have nothing to say so I'll leave you."
Fitz stands. A one-sided conversation he is no mood for. "Mr. President," Eli utters causing Fitz to stop. "How can I be sure you won't hurt her?"
"I won't."
"That's not enough of a reason," he counters daring Fitz to explain himself.
Fitz steps closer to Eli. "You are just going to have to trust me," he states with conviction.
"What reason do I have to trust you?" Fitz eyes raise. "You're rich. Powerful. Respected in both political parties." Fitz crosses his arms. "You are one of the most eligible bachelors in the World. So why her?"
Fitz inhales and exhales deeply keeping his emotions in check. He leads with, "She's the best dancer I've ever seen."
"You're telling me something I already know," Eli claps back. "My Sister is the best. She always has been. How'd you convince her to teach you? To my knowledge she never wanted to teach anyone in politics."
"You'll have to ask her," Fitz comments looking smug. Eli saw him on TV at the dance competition. It makes sense why he was there. Abby arranged for him to go to the performance so he could meet Olivia. It is well known Fitz cannot dance.
"I plan to," Eli clips challenging Fitz further.
"But if it helps, I originally didn't want your sister's help," Fitz divulges. Eli opens his mouth to interject but Fitz stops him. "Abby brought in other teachers, and it didn't work." Fitz walks by Olivia's window. "I was unteachable, until Olivia."
Images of their very first dance flash into his mind like a movie. How she looked, felt, in his arms. The way they danced in sync the first time. His body just knew how to move, in which way, with HER. She calmed him. Made him believe he could do it and not step on her.
Everything about that moment was perfect sent him running in the other direction. Each teacher explained to Abby, Fitz would need a miracle to become a better dancer. He was "unteachable" until Olivia. His heart was never in it prior to Olivia waltzing into his life and his heart.
The second their eyes met on the dance floor, he was amazed by her. Hell he was taken back the moment she stepped out with Max. Everything Bellamy told him before she died, came true that night. He hasn't been the same since. He argued with himself and Abby about going back to Olivia for help.
He did it out of love for his late wife. Fitz felt he was betraying her memory, their love, if he permitted his heart to bring him back to Olivia. Every piece of his body, from the very depths of his soul he kept under lock and key were awakened the instant Olivia appeared in his life.
/
(Still) Amazed By You..
Eli steps closer. "So what makes her so special?"
Fitz whips to face him. How could her brother say such a thing?
"What makes HER so special," Fitz sneers stepping into Eli's space. "For starters how about you show your sister some respect." Eli swallows hard stepping back away from Fitz. He sees the fire, utter devotion and if he believes it, protective nature in The President's eyes. "Don't EVER speak ill of her around me again. Understood."
Eli nods. He's seen images of The President angry on TV but to be only a few feet away from him is freighting. Eli has been one of the only men in her life willingly to go to bat, defend her honor at all costs. Max will but it appears they each have some stiff competition.
"Mr. President," Eli speaks softly. "Trust me when I say I know how remarkable my sister is."
"Do you," Fitz counters. Eli eyes raise at his flippant tone. "Because to me, Cristina and Isabelle, she's more than an incredible woman and accomplished dancer. She's absolutely flawless in everything she does. She's just…just…"
"Just…," Eli grills curiously. His voice is low and soft.
Fitz eyes travel around the living room. He locates a photo of Olivia and his daughters probably from their first lesson. They are smiling, having fun apparently doing the "chicken dance." He hasn't seen girls smile like this since their mother died. She brought joy and happiness into their lives.
He picks up the photo gracing his fingers over it. The light in his precious twin's eyes returned. It's because of Olivia. She is the light of their lives.
Eli steps closer observing Fitz. He's lost in the photo. Olivia always had the ability to illuminate anyone or thing she touched. It's always been that way ever since she was born. It's clear she's done the same for The President's children.
"Sir," Eli calls to Fitz softly. Fitz is staring. He's been living only a half-life since Bellamy passed. He got up every day focusing on his girls and job of running the country. There was no room for any outside interference. He found love once and he lost it to cancer. The only "love" he needed was from his girls.
He convinced himself and his heart of this notion until Olivia danced into his life effortlessly the night he first laid eyes on her. She floated across the floor – a vision in costume – an angel from the heavens sent to pull him out of the darkness. He couldn't take his eyes off her the entire performance.
He willed himself not to yearn for her presence, to forget he ever saw her when the song finished and she struck her final pose with Max. But then their eyes met, connected, and it was Magic. He became amazed by her. Every time their eyes met since, he's been falling, catching her, drawing her closer since.
"Mr. President," Eli utters more forcibly. Fitz eyes meet his.
"Your sister is the most extraordinary woman I've ever met. She's flawless in every move of her body, foot placement. Every little thing about her draws me to her. I cannot explain it," Fitz admits handing the photo to her brother. Eli cannot argue because it is true. Since she was little, she's had this ability to draw people in making their lives happier. It's a gift she got from their mother.
Eli sets the photo down. "It's my job as her brother to keep her safe. I promised my mother from the day she was born, and placed in my arms, I would."
"I respect that," Fitz replies keeping his voice calm and even. "But you have to uphold my feelings towards her as well. I am in her life to stay." Fitz steps into his personal space. "I. Am. Not. Going Away." He enunciates each word slowly and meticulously. "If you haven't figured it out - she is more than just my dance teacher."
Eli scoffs. "Yes when I saw you kiss her I figured it out pretty quick." Fitz blood begins to simmer. "So if you plan on dating her, do you plan on keeping her in the shadows or have her on your arm for the entire world to see."
"What do you think," Fitz challenges. His voice is low.
"Well knowing your party's affiliation, the Republican base will never accept her because she's a woman of color. So you'll have to choose. Her or the office," Eli counters staring into Fitz's not relenting.
"Her."
"You cannot be serious," he spits. Fitz only nods. "Are you really prepared for what will happen once the world realizes you two are a couple?" They are not yet, but in Fitz's heart they are. "She'll be publically attacked. Ridiculed. Called horrible names because you feel big and manly parading a woman of different race on your arm."
Fitz's hands ball into fists. "I'll silence anyone who comes after her. I don't care."
"Well you fucking should Mr. President. My sister and I have been prone to racial comments our entire lives. Are you prepared to shut every man or woman up who attack her publically and privately," Eli challenges stepping closer to Fitz. "What will you do kick them all out of the country?"
Fitz is quiet. His hands settle in his pants pockets. The tips of his fingers press hard into his palms.
"If I have to," Fitz tosses back.
"Yah right. All you rich, white men are the same." Fitz releases a few labored breaths calming himself. "Let me tell you a little secret. Once you get Olivia into your bed, you'll toss her to the side like a piece of garbage. Or you'll keep her as a mistress, while you date an appropriate woman in public."
Fitz hands fly out of his pants ready to grab Eli's collar. He stops himself seconds before he makes contact. Olivia would never forgive him for putting his hands on her brother even though it's deserved. Eli does not back down.
"We'll let me educate you," Fitz growls. The veins on his forehead are popping out. His eyes ready to fly out of their sockets. "I warned you when we began this chat," he clips. "If you ever insult your sister in my presence again, I will ban you from seeing her."
"Olivia would never allow it," Eli snips challenging him.
"Try me. If I have to…," his face is now inches from his. "I will." Eli eyes widen. His hot breath on his face gives his chills. "Also if you ever insinuate that I'm only using her for sex, I'll make sure Oliva finds out. You don't know me. I've never done it before and won't now. My relationship with your sister will be none of your business."
"Anything else…"
"I will fight anyone for her. You best get used to me being around Mr. Pope because like I said I plan on remaining in her life for as long as she'll have me. No one will tell me who I can be with. Not you. The country or my party."
Eli crosses his arms across his chest. "Fine. But as her brother I want to know - You could have any woman on your arm. Why now and most importantly…,"
"Why Livy," Fitz utters her name like a prayer leaving his lips. Eli is taken back. It's in his voice. His stance falters – he staggers away from Fitz needing the space between them to process the gravity of this conversation.
The President of the United States is in love with my baby Sister, he speaks only to himself. It hits his chest like a tidal wave hitting land destroying all in its wake. Many men have said they loved Olivia but none to have truly until now. A quick breath escapes Eli's lungs before he turns his back on Fitz needing to think.
"Mr. Pope are you all right," Fitz questions. Eli nods. He turns his attention back to Fitz. "Do you need Livy?" He shakes his head no.
There it is again.
Livy….
She's the most precious thing in the world to him. He just hasn't fully grasped it.
Once Fitzgerald Grant realizes he's desperately in love with Olivia, all bets will cease to exist. This is a kind of love most people walk the earth searching for their entire lives. It's the type of love, one reads about in fairy tales. It spins your head around, and your world upside. This love's power heals all wounds.
"She's the one," he mutters barely audible.
"One what," Fitz questions narrowing his eyes on Eli.
Shit he really has no idea, he covers his mouth.
"Are you sure you're okay," Fitz inquires becoming worried.
"Yes I'm fine." Fitz walks to the kitchen grabbing a glass of water. He hands it to Eli. He sips it. "Mr. President….," he creaks.
"You asked why Olivia," Fitz sighs. "It's simple really. She not only gets my daughters but she understands me. She anticipates my next move before I realize it myself. Olivia sees me for WHO I am not for office I hold. I can be myself around her. I'm not willing to let her go now that I caught her."
"Caught her…," Eli questions. Fitz explains what happened – the day he came to her and she literally fell into his arms from the table. "SHE DID WHAT!"
"Yah she did," Fitz smirks vividly recalling their screaming match. "I promised to always catch her – to be there for her no matter who hard she fell or when. Because if she fell and I wasn't there, not only would she never forgive me, she'd be ruined. She dropped into my arms and she took my breath away as I did for her."
Fuck she loves him too, Eli mutters in his head.
"How long will you continue to keep that promise Mr. President?"
/
"My Person…"
"Till my dying breath, if she'll have me," Fitz murmurs. "She's my person."
"And your hers," he utters out loud. Now its Fitz's turn to surprised. The two men are quiet for a few moments taking in the gravity of this long conversation. There was so much said and kept hidden. "Look before everyone finds out or our father, you should tell her….,"
Fitz squints. First who is their Father he wonders. Olivia will explain when she's ready and she's trusts in him completely. He's discovered in the short amount of time he's known her, baby steps must be taken. If he runs towards her, she'll bolt like lightning in the opposite direction.
He's the most powerful man in the world in control of a massive military, but Olivia makes it seem he's playing G.I. Joe in his backyard. If he advances, making his intentions known, first a warning signal pops up.
When Fitz persists, pushing her further, she hits him back with everything in her armada leaving mess and destruction behind. She's can be so frustrating but he still cannot get enough of her. Always has to be in control on and off the dance floor.
So he'll sit back and wait until she is ready. And when she is, Olivia Pope best be ready to have her dancing shoes knocked off.
In the meantime he'll wait until she ready to breach the subject of her father. But make no mistake he's already on high alert.
"Tell her what?"
"How you feel…," Eli walks to him. He stops a foot away.
"Trust me. She's aware. I'm all in this with her," his ears turn pink remembering their first kiss against the wall outside the Dance competition.
Eli chuckles. "You just think she does. The thing about my sister is she needs to hear it. To be sure you're in THIS with her. ALL IN Mr. President. Don't ever stop telling her until you're sure she believes you. You must stay true to your word and won't walk away once you find out."
"Find out…," he pries.
"About our Father…," Eli growls.
"He's not some mob boss is he - in prison for life," Fitz inquires.
"No." Eli silently laughs at his comment. Fitz opens his mouth to question Eli but he stops him. "Head this warning Mr. President," there's fear in her brother's voice. "Our father used to be a great man. I think he's still in there somewhere. All that changed when our mother died tragically. He hurt my sister and I pretty bad."
"I won't let him near her," Fitz counters with a tone sending shivers up Eli's spine. For the first time he believes Fitz.
"You will not have a choice. You are here for her now during the lessons, and the State Dinner you want her to go as your date. My Father will learn not only of your lessons but you two are in a relationship. The very second he learns, he'll reenter her life. He'll do whatever it takes to control her….to get to you," he points out pushing this point above all else.
Fitz swallows hard. "Me why?"
"Power Mr. President. The one thing our Father craves most in the World. It used to be the love of his family, wife and children. He could have been great. I remember from when I was little. Olivia was the apple of his eye. She was wrapped around his little finger. But then…," he chokes up.
"You lost your Mother…," Fitz sits.
"Yah. It destroyed our family. She was the love of our Dad's life." He takes in Fitz. He starting to believe Olivia is the love of The President's life. "To lose that kind of love."
"Destroys you from within," Fitz finishes for him. "Bells...," he murmurs. He loved her. He'll never stop, but it's nothing compared to his ever growing feelings for the woman who captured his heart recently. "Livy," his eyes meet Eli's.
Eli sits in front of him. "If you suspect it," his eyes fall to Fitz's heart. "Don't say it until you're certain. Even though I believe you are starting to figure it out." Fitz gulps. He can't be – this soon. Or is he? "Assure me you'll take care of Olivia. It may take me a while to let go, but…," Fitz squeezes his hand.
"I'll never leave her. You have my word." Eli for the first time relaxes. "You owe her an apology…," Fitz remind him standing up. He nods.
Eli glances at the time. "We should bring this to Rose and Lois."
"We should," Fitz stands.
As they stand up to walk to the door it opens. "Wow you two are still breathing," Olivia chastises glancing at Fitz and Eli. They stare at her. "Everything all right?" She notes their eyes really taking her in. "Do I have food in my hair or something?"
"No you look fine," Eli walks to her. He moves some hair behind her ear. "You never have a hair out of place. Just like Mom?" His words surprise her. It's difficult to talk about their mother. He has dessert in hands. "I'll see you over there. I'm sorry." He kisses her cheek then shares a glance with Fitz.
Her mouth falls open as her brother walks next door leaving her and Fitz alone. "What the hell happened?" Fitz smirks. "No bones are broken and no one's going to jail." A soft smile appearing on his face. "Are you going tell me…," she's cut off as he encroaches into her space to kiss her.
He kisses her softly enjoying the feeling of their lips pressed together in a soft waltz. If only he could get his feet to move this effortlessly. It will happen in time. He breaks the kiss, but sways her in his embrace. Her eyes meet his.
"Is everything okay," she inquires noting something different in Fitz's eyes. He's staring deep into her eyes as if he's truly seeing her for the first time. Like she's his entire world.
/
All In…
"Oh yes," he coos pressing his hands on her tailbone bringing her closer. She eyes him. "I promise." He assures her with another plushy kiss. Her gut is never wrong. But she allows him to bring her back to Rose and Lois's for dessert. They finish dinner and they head to her mother's grave.
Andrew gives Abby a ride home. Olivia rides with Fitz in an unmarked bullet proof SUV. Another SUV is behind and front of them. Only four agents accompany them. They arrive at the cemetery under the cover of darkness. There is very few lights. Olivia already told the lead car where to stop.
As they stop on the top of a small hill, Olivia's quietly begins to whimper. "Oh Livy," Fitz coos bringing her into his arms. Fitz glances at the graves. He wonders where she is.
"In front of the Angel," Olivia eyes meet his. "Her stone is a pink heart. Eli and I picked it out."
Fitz eyes soften in the darkness. "You come every year."
"Yes. Eli and I come on her birthday, and holidays. We always lay something on her grave but…," she stops when he hands her a small bouquet of daisies. "How…?"
"Abby left them here for me. She said they were…,"
"My mom's favorite," Olivia smiles gracing her fingers over the dainty petals. "She loved daisies. They were in her wedding flowers. We had daisies of every color in our yard when I was little. Even in the house," she wistfully recalls. Her eyes meets Fitz's. "They're even pink."
"Yah the girls and I picked the color," he replies cradling her cheek. "They wanted to leave something special for your mom."
"Thank them for me," she sniffles. He nods. "Fitz?"
"Yah…," his voice is barely audible.
"Are you real?" He stifles a small silent laugh.
"See for yourself. You can pinch me if you want." She rolls her eyes. "But you know I am because if you recall Miss Pope I caught you fair and square. You landed in my arms."
"I remember," she blushes. Her eyes glance out at the grave site finding her Mother's stone. She hasn't been up there in a long time. She's hasn't been able to bring herself to do it. "Would you?"
"I'd love to. I'll walk you up to her, then step back so you can have some alone time with your mom. A girl sometimes just needs her Mom to talk to," he explains lifting her face higher. He kisses her forehead. She sniffles quickly. Tom opens their door. Slowly and steadily Fitz escorts Olivia to her Mother's grave.
When they reach the stone they stop. He sees "Beloved Mother" engraved. Then "Pope -" with a hyphen.
"Olivia was Pope your Mom's maiden name?"
"Yes. My Mom didn't have a headstone for six years. My Father couldn't bring himself to put one here. I guess a piece of him held out hoping my Mom would come back." Fitz heart breaks. "By the time I turned 18 he was a changed man. Eli and I saved our money and paid for her headstone. We placed her maiden name on it."
"Your Father…,"
She scoffs. "When he found out he was furious. He came for my brother and I. He felt we overstepped our bounds. My Grandparents, Aunt Rose and Lois stuck up for us. We did the right thing. We refused to list his last name. Once Eli and I were both over 21 we changed our last names to Pope as a final break from our Dad."
He's speechless. "He's really that bad."
Olivia gaze meets his. "Yah he is."
Her eyes fall to the grave. "My mom would hate the man's he's become. I don't know what Eli told you about him but…," she interrupted when he turns her to face him. "You have to know who I am."
"Nothing will ever change the way I feel about you or how much I want you in my life Liv. I'll always be here to catch you before you fall." He draws her closer. Her legs are weakening. "Here in front of your Mom I want you to understand, and never doubt how much I can't be without you." Her hands cover his heart.
His eyes bore into hers. Her breath catches. "Fitz?"
"You are all I ever wanted and dared to dream for." He kisses her softly. "And I'll wait as long as it takes – till your ready – for me to be able to call you truly mine. But in my heart, you already are. Don't think it. Feel it," his hands place hers on his chest over his heart. "It's all you."
She whimpers.
"Livy here in front of your Mom because I want her to heart me say it, You. Are. My. Person." Now she's crying. She falls into his chest as her tears spill out of her eyes. "Cry Sweetheart. I'll right here. Forever and always."
Olivia squeezes him tighter. She opens her eyes seeing her Mother's grave. Just then a small gust of wind blows past, threw, and straight up into the sky.
"Mom?" Fitz hairs on his neck stand straight up. He senses "it" to. In all the times Olivia has come here that has never happened. Her eyes meet Fitz's. "Did you feel something?" He nods. "I just don't mean the wind."
"I know." He swallows hard. "Maybe I have her approval to be yours."
"My what," she teases.
"Boyfriend." Olivia kisses him. Her eyes close relishing in the feeling of his lips pressed against hers. When they separate he holds her face. "I'll be by the car if you need me."
She whimpers. He begins to walk away. "I think I'll always need you." He hears her. Fitz stops and sees her quickly shield herself from his gaze. He eyes his agents to step back giving her some privacy to speak to her mother.
She places the daisies on her grave. She muffles her cries. He watches aching to comfort her. She kneels down and to speak. Fitz cannot hear her but she's crying. Every so often he hears Nina and Bells name and his. It warms his heart knowing she's telling her Mother about his girls and him.
She stands to walk behind her grave. She eyes Tom. "Sir. Why don't you get inside the car? She'll be down in a minute." Fitz eyes Tom then Olivia. She smiles and he sits inside with the door open in case he's needed.
She kneels behind her stone. "Momma. I need to know what to do," she whispers wiping her face. She told Maya everything about Fitz. "I'm so lost. I wish you were here. I really like him – Fitz but I'm so afraid. What if I jump and I lose everything? I don't mean dancing," she peeks out from behind the stone. She sees Fitz with his legs hanging out of the car.
"I'm okay," she mouths. He nods.
She sits where he can see her. "Momma is this what it feels like – to have found… Could it be too soon for me to feel this way about him?" She pauses. "He caught me Momma. He did. This man stopped my dancing in circles and became," she snorts out a chuckle. "My Person. Fitz is my person Momma and I'm so scared. I wish you were here to tell me to wait or follow my instincts."
She looks up at the sky. "Fine my heart. I don't want to hurt him, Nina and Bells in the process. So you sending me a sign would help. Should I leap or wait?" Olivia talks for another minute, until she hears footsteps.
"Tom?"
"Sorry Miss Pope but we have to get back. It's nearly bedtime for the girls and we are your ride home. The President insists," he explains.
"Okay," she stands. She walks to the car with Tom and sits inside next to Fitz. He arm circles around her drawing her close. "Thank you," she murmurs holding his cheek then kissing him softly. He pulls her closer.
"I'd do anything for you," he sighs. She rests her over his heart. He's still catching her – even now. Her eyes close. By the time they reach her apartment she's nearly asleep. "Liv," he nudges her. "You're home." Tom opens her car door. He releases her.
She steps out of the car. "You are going to walk me up right."
He smiles. "Yes ma'am."
The elevator ride is quiet. She links her hand in his and wraps herself around his arm. He nuzzles his head on hers for the quick trip. The door opens. The agents step out, then aside. He walks her to her door.
"This is you," he utters standing behind her.
She smiles, unlocks the door and faces him. "This is me."
The agents stand by the elevator. Fitz walks her inside. He closes her door. "What?" Fitz asks.
"I had a good time today." Fitz blushes.
"Even when….,"
"Yes it all. Including you showing up here and dragging my ass out of here to give you lessons," she chastises. "Plus my crazy aunts adore you," she pauses become flustered.
He pushes away from her door. He stands in front of her. "Your aunts do adore me," he licks his bottom lip. She reaches for his hands. "Livy," he mutters. "I want to tell you – you're…"
"I know," she finishes for him. Her words are enough.
He kisses her before backing her into a nearby wall, pressing her against it. She's relishes in the feel of his lips on hers. He kisses her passionately conveying all his feelings he's not ready to admit – yet. His hands keep her lips attached to his as his tongue twirls, connects with hers over and over again. She's pulling him closer, needing more.
She wraps her legs around his waist. He moans, sighs into the kiss as her grip tightens. He wants her. She feels it through his pants. Her hands are on the buttons of shirt. When he separates their lips, her eyes flutter open. Their hot breathes mix together. It is then does she realize she's sitting on her long rectangular table by the door.
"I should go before I can't," he admits. He's never ached for any woman like this before. If he doesn't real himself in, he'll never leave or be without her. He hovering over her, encroaching on her space. "Livy," he grovels. His heart his pounding as he stares into her eyes.
She smiles. "Yes?" Olivia questions laying her arms on his shoulders.
"I wanted to make sure you understand how much I you mean to me. I'm never letting go." His grip tightens. She sniffles. "I know we have an agreement. But when you're ready to be fully mine, I'll be waiting. I am not going anywhere – without you." Her heart flutters.
This man is incredible. He desperately wants to be hers. She just has to let him.
"Fitz I…," his fingers cover her lips but she removes them.
His fingers cover her lips. "I know we have a lot to figure out, but I want you Livy – us. I'll be waiting until you're ready to have me – us. I don't care who you've been with or where you're from…or…,"
"Who my Father is..," she whimpers. Will she lose him once he learns the truth? She sees no doubts in his eyes. He wants her. All of her. "Will you still catch me even if you learn he's…,"
"He's what…," he pauses lifting her face gently. "Only wants power." Her eyes widen. What did Eli tell him? "He can have it but he will not take you. I'll fight any man, including him. I'm told with great power comes great responsibility."
She snickers. "Okay Spiderman," she quips. His eyes bore into hers. Her breath catches.
"Livy," he murmurs cradling her face and gazing softly but intently into her brown eyes. "You are the light at the end of my dark tunnel. My responsibility." Tears form in the corners of her eyes. "I am not afraid of anything when it comes to you or my children."
His admission stutters her heart within her chest. No man before Fitz has ever said these words to her before. She brings his lips to hers needing to kiss him. They more effortlessly over the other toppling, go headlong into each other. She clings to him. She lifts her lips when she must catch her breath.
"I'll never let tumble unless I am here to catch you." He squeezes her tighter. "So when you're ready lessons or not, I want you Olivia if you'll have me." She releases a labored breath. He's more than she ever dreamed. He sees it in her eyes. "Is there hope?"
She can only smile bashfully. "If you stay focused during our 6 lessons…yes," she sheepishly reminds him.
"Six," he scoffs. She sighs staring sternly into his eyes. "I'll give you my undivided attention. I pinky promise." His pinky finger wiggles in front of her face.
"Fitz!" She shoves him backwards. "Go Mister before I double your lesson amount."
"Yes Miss Pope," he chastises. He steps to her to hold her hands. "I'll see you at our lessons, and the girls. I won't miss them." He cups her face. "They're my top priority."
"As you wish Mr. President," she teases. He moves in to kiss her but lands on her cheek. He growls. He draws her into his arms quickly. "The girls are waiting for you. Go," she reminds him. He relents and releases her. He steps out of her apartment and to the elevator. He eyes Rose and Lois door.
He's sure they are watching. "Sleep well Ladies," he blows the close door a kiss. He hears shuffles on the opposite side. The elevator opens. He steps inside and faces Olivia leaning on her door. "Goodnight Livy," he murmurs holding the doors open.
"Goodnight Mr. President."
/
(5 dance lessons later)
2 weeks later…(6 weeks till French State Dinner)
"Abby," Fitz spoke gruffly stepping into the Oval Office bright and early Monday morning. She was surprise to see him on time and ahead of schedule. He had his fifth lesson with Olivia and was making progress. As he closed the door and strolled towards her, her eyes raised. He was limping. "Sir…,"
"Yes," he winces slipping out of his jacket placing it on the back of his chair. He gently sits down. She advised him to soak in a hot tub last night. He glances over the files before his eyes.
"Rough night," she smirks knowing full well why he's in pain.
His eyes meet hers. Each lesson Olivia has been building on his skill level. She's adding difficulty, steps, speed, and moves to the dance, making him use muscles he hasn't used since college. Today is the sorest he's been in ages. His entire body hurts from head to toe.
He leans back. "What did she tell you?"
"Everything," Abby eyes twinkle delightfully.
Fitz sits there watching his Chief of Staff. He has no doubts Abby and Olivia talk about everything, they are best friends. But is Abby aware, Olivia has only allowed Fitz to touch her when they are dancing or to assist her if his help is warranted. There has little hugging, and no kissing – at all.
When they "waltz," he holds her closer, tighter than required because he longs to have her in his arms. She must be professional – his teacher when they are on the dance floor. But she's kept him at arm's length when his lessons are over. Even when he attends the girls, she's distant. She's assured him he's done nothing wrong.
Olivia is doing her best to stay focused and get him ready for the State Dinner. It's going on three weeks and she's showing signs of missing him. Fitz hasn't been able to attend the competition due to his schedule but he sees her struggling with Max during the broadcast. She's off. She's keeping him at arm's length because of it and it's throwing them both off their game.
Abby is aware how much they "miss" each other. No they are not a couple but with all the hugging, kissing, holding each other beforehand, and the night of his first lesson, he hasn't been the same. He misses her desperately.
"You miss her," Fitz sighs deeply.
"I see Liv three to four times a week," he point out.
"Yes but it's NOT what you want," she hints. "Olivia wanted me to remind you to be patient and it will happen."
"You're enjoying this aren't you Miss Whelan," he addresses her formally. One more lesson he utters to himself.
She suppresses a laugh. Olivia is pushing him hard and fast. Between his 2 lessons the first week, and three lessons this week, the kids, and practicing with Max, Olivia sees herself as Secretariat running the last race, edging the field.
"So what else has she said," he snarls slightly. "Or is that privileged information."
"On the contrary Mr. President. You need to practice more. Olivia is not satisfied with your body," she pauses noting his devious smirk. "Sir," she warns.
"She loves my body Abigail," he quips.
"So doesn't every other woman on the planet," she retorts. Fitz blushes. "I meant the way in which you hold yourself and carry her across the floor. You need to be more elegant and graceful. Not choppy."
"That's what Liv said huh," he crosses his arms defiantly. Olivia has said plenty but it's between them only. "So what does she have planned for me?"
"I am to allot time in order for US to practice." His mouth drops open. "Yes Sir you and I. Olivia is serious. She cannot come here on a daily basis." His eyes narrow. He huffs in his seat. "Yes you can get her in and out of the White House."
"I can Abby – easily," he smugly points out.
"Olivia won't allow it nor has the time. The show upped rehearsal schedule." She informed Fitz and the girls of this last night. "She has to learn a dance with the whole cast for next week. This he did not know. "Nina and Bells are too short. And she trusts me. And you must stretch your body so it's ready for what she's got in store for your lessons."
"Is that so," he eyes her. He can't wait to show her what he's has planned – their true FIRST date is one lesson away. It's just out of his reach. He's been telling himself – one more lesson until he takes her out on a perfect first date – which he already arranged. She'll probably ring his neck but it will be worth it.
"Ah huh," she giggles. "It seems she's up her game and worked you awfully hard. I heard she had you sweating and panting last night." The innuendo in her voice is unmistakable.
Fitz stands. "We didn't have sex Abigail," he scoffs.
"Yet," she muffles under her breath.
"I heard that," Fitz counters. Abby rolls her eyes. Fitz glances at his phone. There a photo of him dancing with Olivia hidden. His daughters took it when they were dancing for the very first time. He had no idea it existed. He lost in her, them as they glided across the floor. This is etched in his brain never to be forgotten.
He glances at the picture when he's alone.
She glances down at her tablet. "Liv is just…,"
"Pushing you over and above your body's limits because she wants you to be the best dancer at the State Dinner in 6 weeks." Fitz squints. "The President and First Lady of France pushed their visit back another week or so. A last minute schedule change. I sent you the information late last night Sir."
He had checked his messages since Olivia left last night nor this morning. She points it out on his desk. "Is this going to be problem on our end?"
"No. It gives you more time to perfect your Viennese Waltz," she snickers. Fitz rolls his eyes. "From what Liv tells me, you need the extra time." He smirks. He stands up to glance out the window. "Abby," he sighs deeply.
She walks to him slowly. "Yes?"
"I can do this right," he speaks unsure of himself.
Abby touches his arm. He faces her. "She has no doubts." His mouth drapes open. "And if YOU fall, she'll be there to catch you. I'll see you shortly for our morning staff meeting."
Fitz only nods. As she reaches the door he utters, "Abby will I be good enough?"
She stops, spins to face him. She notes the hints of fear in his eyes. "As a dancer, only time will tell, but as the man she deserves you already are." Fitz's face soften and his lips curl into a soft smile. "She's your person."
He swallows hard. "Yah Livy is."
Abby leaves the Oval to return later in the morning. The morning meeting had to be pushed back a few hours. Abby sits down with her tablet and files in hand. She begins to go over the agenda with Fitz when her phone rings.
"Why would Max be calling me?" She excuses herself to speak to him. "Max calm down what's wrong?" Fitz stands up. "What's wrong with Liv?" She's listening to Max explain.
Fitz eyes widen. His heart quickens. Abby eyes meet his. There's something wrong with Olivia.
"Max I'll meet you there in fifteen minutes. Yes James Madison ER. Got it…," she hangs up.
"What's going on Abby," Fitz questions. "Is Olivia all right?"
"I don't know Sir. She's on her way to the ER in an ambulance. Cyrus is riding with her. She blacked out when she was dancing with Max and entire cast. It's never happened before. I have to go," Abby utters grabbing her things.
"Abby stop," Fitz snips grabbing his coat. "I'm coming with you."
/
TBC…
So OP is on her way to the ER and Fitz is going to meet her there or is he? Will Abby let him leave the White House, or permit him to come? More importantly, what will OP do when she sees him in the ER for her? And Max…Lord it could get messy. LOL
What is wrong with OP? Is she okay? Thoughts?
And his talk with Eli was enlightening and her Maya. That made me tear up.
Also, I also want to address something, I realize that I don't update all my fics as much as the others. I write where my muses take me. (Tony is my muse.) So if a fic only posts a few times a year, it's because I do have other fics I'm trying to finish and they are in my head.
I don't write with an outline. I just place on the screen what "feels" right and in my heart. I trust my gut when it comes to writing Olitz. It hasn't steered me wrong. If it takes a longer for a story to update, it's because I'm struggling and I want to give you all a quality chapter worthy of your time and my own.
So I thank those who continue to read and support my work. It means a great deal to me.
I'll be looking forward to your reviews on the flipside…
Peace, Love and Pumpkins…
Me's