The next day Liv woke up around ten that morning and smiled when saw Fitz's name as she checked her messages. She replied to her the emails her team had sent about their current client and the wishes. Some things needed to be reworked but they were still on track to finish before deadline. After reviewing all the email traffic she pulled out her phone and scanned her texts, checking for any other work related things before clicking on Fitz's name.
Fitz: Hey, Liv, I know you're probably asleep but I just wanted to let you know I had a good time last night. Can't wait to see you again.
His text was warm and she couldn't help but smile as she replied.
Liv: I enjoyed spending time with you too. Hope you're having a good morning.
Fitz: My morning isn't bad. Business meeting of sorts with my father in a bit but then I'll be free for the remainder of the day. How about you?
Liv: Still in bed so I'd call it a good morning so far, LOL. It's looking like I'll actually be able to relax and take a day for myself. :)
Fitz: That sounds great. How about after I'm done with my meeting I give you a call and we can set something up for later? :)
Liv: Sounds like a plan to me. Later, Fitz. :)
Fitz: Talk to you soon, sweet baby. :)
Fitz had just sent off the last text to Liv as his father arrived in the restaurant. He stood until his father was seated and returned to his seat.
"Fitzgerald." Big Jerry was a tall man standing a few inches over six feet. He had passed that height onto his son. Fitz had thick chestnut brown curly hair from his mother while Jerry's had been straight and blond. As it was now Jerry still had a full head of hair though it was now white. Jerry was loud and charismatic when he wanted to be and somehow his slick exterior fooled a lot of people but Fitz knew better. Jerry had tried to beat him into submission when he was a child but as he'd grown up he had stood against Jerry and remained determined to live his life by his own rules without harming those he cared about.
"Jerry." Fitz response was curt. He wanted his father to get to the point. He didn't know why he had called him for this meeting but he knew that he probably wouldn't like what was said. Jerry had a way of losing himself to numbers and the opinions of his advisors. He was all image and dollar signs while Fitz could appreciate the freedom his finances provided he didn't get caught up in the wealth or status afforded to him.
The waiter came by to take their orders and they both only ordered drinks knowing they wouldn't be sharing a meal. Fitz chose water while Jerry went for scotch. He wasn't surprised at his father's order even though it wasn't even 11 in the morning yet.
"I called you here to talk about the company-"
"I figured as much," Fitz interrupted.
"As you know I plan on stepping down as CEO in the next few years and I want you to take over. Grant Industries should be your company. It's been family run for two generations and it is your right as heir. This is and should continue to be your company. We are also planning to absorb Montgomery Contracting through a deal where we will remain the parent company. Now if you and Millicent-"
"Let me stop you right there." Fitz leaned forward on the table and held up a hand. "One, you cannot make me do anything regarding Grant Industries and if you thought that you're mistaken. Two, while business necessitates us meeting since I became a majority share holder that is fine but don't ever let the dollar signs you see delude you to the point that you can actually believe you have any kind of say in my personal life. Mellie is a non starter and will not be discussed in connection to me personally. Three, while I care about Grant Industries I refuse to let it dictate how I live my life and I have steps in place so don't worry about the Grant name or the company's image, Jerry." With his explanation over, Fitz leaned back into his chair with steepled fingers while he watched his father take in what he said.
"Fitzgerald, I know it may not seem like it but these are the best decisions we can make regarding the company." Jerry continued seemingly unfazed at what his son had said. "Cyrus and I both think these decisions are best-"
"Jerry, I don't like repeating myself and since you don't seem to be getting the message I'm going to cut this meeting short. Tell Cyrus I said hello." Fitz threw a ten in the table and got up and left with Jerry's mouth agape as he watched his son leave the restaurant.
As soon as he got into his car Fitz used the Bluetooth to call Liv and as her voice came in through his speakers his mood immediately picked up.
"Hey, beautiful. I'm done with my meeting. Have you eaten yet?" He drummed his fingers along his steering wheel while waiting for the light to change.
"Hmmm, nope. I haven't eaten yet, want to do brunch?" She sounded hopeful and that pleased him.
"Now that was supposed to be my line," he joked. "Of course I'd love to do brunch with you. How about dinner as well? We can make a day of it." He placed the suggestions in a charming manner that brought out her smile.
"That sounds great!"
"Excellent. I'll be at your place in a few minutes. See you soon, Liv."
"See you soon, Fitz," she echoed. She saved her work on her laptop and looked at what she was wearing. She had thrown on a red summer dress showed a bit of her back since the weather was finally staying warm. She was grabbing a small beige sweater when she heard Fitz knock on her door. She slipped into a pair of flats then grabbed her phone and opened the door.
He leaned into the doorway and smiled. She took in his black boots, dark blue jeans and light blue cashmere V-neck sweater.
"Hi." His smooth baritone greeted her along with a smile.
"Hi." She walked towards him and wrapped her arms around his waist. He made an sound of approval when she laid her head on his chest and he pulled her in close for a good hug. He rubbed his hands along her back briefly before pulling back and tipping her chin up for a kiss. After they were satisfied with their greeting Fitz rested his forehead against hers and squeezed her hips gently.
"Are you ready to go,Liv?" She closed her eyes as his voice vibrated through his chest into her.
"I'm ready, Fitz." She smiled, stepped back to lock her door then interlaced their fingers.
