A/N- As promised for my birthday I give you updates as a gift. For those of you who are watching Scandal I hope that you enjoyed "Scandal Thursday". This update will be all over the place as they bond with family and friends, and you will see new relationships emerge.
Fitz & Olivia made some last-minute changes on the last part of their trip. They were supposed to meet up with the rest of their family and friends in Rome. The couple had plans to rent a lavish home in Rome, and foot the bill for them for them to do fun activities, but Olivia wanted it to be more structured so after talking to her parents and her husband she had changed the trip around. Fitz really wanted to go to Alaska. With the help of their travel agent they secured a private yacht for the next fourteen days. The trip to Rome would be just the two of them. Most important they would be announcing that they were expecting again. The baby was a bottomless pit. Thank God for the heat which gave her an excuse to wear dresses, but it was getting harder to make excuses as her bump was getting bigger. They also hated having to lie to Bri. She loved relaxing on Olivia's tummy, and it wouldn't take her long to notice it was getting bigger. She didn't want her to blurt it out to everyone. They had found a simple, but clever way to make the announcement to everyone.
The couple had invited some last-minute guests as part of this two-week celebration. So much had changed in their lives, and they felt these people deserved to share in their joy as well as their own personal joy. They also just wanted to spend time with them, and they graciously accepted their invitation.
Olivia & Sam were flying to Vancouver, Canada to meet everyone.
Olivia was not surprised to see her husband waiting for her at the entrance of the yacht. They looked like the corny couple out of a romance novel. The kiss was steamy and passionate, and he was swinging her around in circle.
Finally, he sat her down. His hands covering her face, "Hi sweet baby! I missed you so much…"
"I missed you too Fitz. How are other two babies?"
"They are doing well. They missed their mommy, but we enjoyed our time together. How is peanut treating you?"
"Peanut is fine. I feel like I never stop eating, but other than that no complaints. The time I spent with Sam was everything. She is excited to see Nick, and was happy to hear he could take this trip with us. She was expecting us to be old school, and put them in separate rooms with Kimmie's boyfriend."
"John & I thought about it. They live on their own. They are good girls, and we trust them. Both are so focused on their education. I am not going to push it especially with Nick. His hands are full enough. I know he loves our daughter. You both look even more stunning in person."
"Thanks babe…"
"Do you need anything before we set sail?"
"I am comfortable right now, but Peanut will want to be fed soon. So, let's get this party started, get everyone introduced and everyone into their rooms."
Fitz led Olivia onto the deck where everyone was waiting for them. Sam had already made her way up to greet her family and her boyfriend.
Olivia waved to everyone has she made her way to the microphone that was put out for them.
"Hi guys, I'll make this quick. This cruise is very important to Fitz & I after everything that has happened to us. We wanted to send time together with family and friends no expense spared. Everyone will be staying in luxurious suites. The suite assigned was based on the guest counts we received. All excursions have been paid for. We tried to assure that everyone's suites were prepared especially those who have children, but if we missed anything of if you need something just let the staff know. I hope that everyone enjoys this time away. Focus on family and friends before we must step back into the busy world. We will be cruising for the next two days until we reach Ketchikan, Alaska."
Gwen & Jeffrey were staying in the horizon view suite. The suite was a spacious one bedroom suite that included a European king sized with marble bathroom. The suite included a private balcony, walk in closet with safe, personal butler, and other amenities.
Huck/Quinn
Harrison/Abby
Tom/Lauren
Cyrus/James
Andrew/Tonya
These couples would be staying in the seven seas forward suite. The suite was a spacious one bedroom suite that included a European king sized with marble bathroom. The suite included a private balcony, walk in closet with safe, personal butler, a bottle of champagne, romantic dinner for two at any one of our ports, and other amenities.
Nate/Jenny
Jerome/Maya
John/Vanessa
Nick/Sam
Shaun/Kimmie
These couples will be staying in the grand suite. It has a one bedroom with a European king sized bed, and a slumber bed for when the kids visit. It also includes two marble bathrooms, a spacious living room, a private balcony, walk-in closet with safe, a personal butler, a cocktail party for eight, and many other amenities.
Finally, there is:
Fitz/Olivia/Children
Nnamdi/Kerry/Daughter
Stephen/Georgia/Children
The couples with children will be staying in the master suite. The master suite has two spacious bedrooms with European king sized slumber beds, 2 ½ marble bathrooms, spacious living room, two private balconies, a walk-in closet with safe, a personal butler, a host of other amenities, and two private nannies throughout your stay.
The host/hostesses began to take the groups to their room. It wouldn't take long for their surprise to be revealed to everyone, because they were being handed the same envelope at the same time.
The couple smile smiled as the cheers and screams began to fill the boat. They had taken the picture just before getting on board.
It was a simple picture of the family. Olivia was standing in the middle. They were all wearing blue jeans with a white button down shirts. Their hands were resting on Olivia's small but noticeable bump. The frame was catchy. The frame said, "Lottery Quick Cash We're Having a Baby"
It was an emotional moment for all their family and friends to see that they had once again conquered. That biblical statement, "No weapon formed against me shall prosper…"
Kerry came over to Olivia and they shared a long and warm embrace. She was also pregnant, but remaining true to their privacy they would not be announcing until she could no longer hide. She had not shared the news yet with Olivia since they found out during the kidnapping ordeal. Fitz knew but promised to keep it a secret so Kerry could share the news herself.
Kerry asked, "Are you nervous?"
She nodded, "We both come single child homes, but when we discussed family we always talked about having two to three kids. We never expected the adoption, but I believe that everything happens for a reason. I have the best husband in the world so we will figure it out."
"I know you are one of the busiest women in Hollywood. Do you plan on taking time to give Bella a sibling?"
"For sure. I love my career, and I love that it is evolving to being more than an actress. First, and foremost I am a wife and mother. Nnamadi is more private than I am. I appreciate what he gives up to be with me. I know that he wants more children, and he doesn't come from a single child home so he can help navigate when the time comes."
"Good, maybe you'll get knocked up on this trip. It would be something special if we had kids again close in age, but we will talk more during our scheduled luncheon later in the week. I am so glad all three of you are here."
"We are glad to be here to. Bella is so excited to see Bri. I just want her to have as normal of a childhood as she can. She didn't ask to be in the spotlight."
"I understand Kerry, and you are doing a phenomenal job. She is such a happy little girl who has an excellent mom as a role model. I have learned so much from you. I am not an actress, but our jobs and clients have us in the spot life. You have been an excellent example of how to raise my kids."
Kerry nodded. They shared another long embrace before heading to their suites. Both were ready to get off their feet.
Everyone spent the next two days relaxing and catching up with each other. They left Vancouver and cruised the next day. Their first stop in Alaska was in Ketchikan where the entire group decided to a flight seeing & crab fest. In pairs, everyone went on a floatplane for a 30-minute tour of the city. They also got to see Tongass National Forest. It was a scenic tour, and it allowed everyone to get plenty of pictures.
The tour ended up dropping everyone off at George Inlet Lodge. There was a snack of smoked salmon with white wine or Alaskan amber beer for the guests. Olivia had sparkling water. Everyone got to learn about the lodge, facts about Alaska, and Ketchikan. Finally, they all sat down for their repast. It started out with a romaine salad topped with a homemade Oriental style dressing. Next, they enjoyed Dungeness crab and red potatoes. Finally, they enjoyed dessert which cheesecake smothered in Alaskan blueberries. Everyone had a great time and purchased gifts from the gift shop before making it back to the boat.
The next day they were in Wrangell. They were spending the day with their individual families. Originally Fitz & Olivia had planned get on a jet boat with the children, but now that she was pregnant they had to cancel the plans.
Olivia tried to explain that they could go without her, but she was out voted. They decided they would go fishing inside the passage way.
Everyone was excited for the day of relaxation especially the kids. Fitz was excited to fish with the kids. They were on the Pacific Ocean along the famed Inside Passage of Alaska.
Once they reach the shore their Captain met them, and helped them obtain their fishing licenses. After getting their gear they headed on board.
Fitz was surprised that it was a quick boat trip. They spent most of the day fishing, and as a family they each caught a couple of fish.
Sheldon was disappointed, because he thought they had to throw them overboard. Fitz had told him while they were fishing about cleaning the fish.
Fitz bent down in front of Sheldon, "Son, I paid extra money to have them ship our fish home. I placed a call in to Tim. He is going to put the fish up for us. I will keep my promise to you, and show you how to clean it and then we will cook a big old dinner and invite everyone over."
Sheldon leaned in and hugged his dad, "Thanks, you are the best dad ever…"
Fitz, Sam, and Olivia got emotional for a moment. His goal in life was to be a good husband and father. If his wife and children thought he was doing a good job, then that is all that mattered. Sam felt the same way Sheldon felt, but she was happier for her brother. That he would grow up, and have a chance to be a good honorable man like their dad. Olivia was happy not only for the kids, but her husband. She knew he worked hard to be the opposite of his dad. She could tell him how good of a dad he was until she was blue in the face, but hearing the kids tell him and show him made him understand that he was a great dad.
The next day they were cruising the Tracy Arm. Olivia & Kerry had made plans to spend the day together while their husband had the kids. Sam & Kimmie were spending the day together to catch up.
The ladies started their day by the Pool Bar. Each enjoying a cold non-acholic beverage.
The ladies decided to have lunch before spending the afternoon in the spa.
Kerry asked, "So how is pregnant life treating you?"
Olivia smiled, "I don't know. What I am quickly learning is not to compare pregnancies against each other. What I can tell you is that Peanut is always hungry. Beyond that I am taking it day by day."
Kerry laughed, "Don't I know it…"
Olivia looked up at Kerry, "Is there something you are trying to tell me?"
Kerry laughed, "Since we are such good friends, and obviously, we think more alike than we thought we decided to copy you or vice versa. To answer your question Nnamdi & I are also expecting."
Olivia got excited, but then she grew quiet, "Did you just find out?"
Kerry saw the sadness on our face, "Olivia, I was not going to wait and have you find out when I could no longer hide the baby. You are my friend. Hell, you are one of my best friends. I never expected our relationship to grow as it has, but I love it. I thank God, that Fitz brought you into my life. I never knew helping you would lead to a wonderful friendship not only for myself, but my husband and now children. We found out when everything was going on with you, and the kidnapping. Nnamdi did share it with Fitz. When he told, me I called Fitz, and asked if he would hold off. I wanted to share it with you. When we determined, we were taking the cruise I knew I would tell you. I promise you I was bursting at the seams ask my husband. I didn't say anything when we boarded the yacht, because everyone was around. Besides that was your moment. Now this moment is ours, and I wouldn't have it any other way."
Olivia smiled, "I can't believe we are both pregnant. So how have you been? I feel so bad. We should be celebrating you as well. I should have paid more attention to what was going on with you. Like you said we are practically best friends."
"Are you serious? You feel bad. After everything that you have been through with your ex you put yourself in the same room as him to get him to trust you while preparing to be kidnapped. You have no idea when you are going to be kidnapped, and you do all of this to save your family. What the hell is there to feel bad about? Nothing, like you I am learning that the pregnancies are not the same. What is the same is how excited I am to be pregnant? My job is centered around being fake. I didn't know if real love was out there for me. I wanted what my parents had, and I didn't want to settle. To finally have that man that looks at me like I hung the moon is everything, but you already know that. Seriously, I know we didn't plan this, but I have to admit I am a little excited to go through this with you."
Olivia grabbed her hand, "Me too…Let me ask, you practically worked right up until the moment that you gave birth to Isabella. Do you plan on doing the same thing with this baby?"
Kerry shook her head, "I am fortunate with the way filming is happening this season that I will have more time to really enjoy this pregnancy, and I know that will make my husband very happy. We never complain about our hectic schedules. We just make it work, but I know that when I am carrying his babies it is tough when I am working sometimes 12-16 hours a day. There is one thing we are not changing no matter how the rest of the pregnancy goes?"
"What is that?"
"Despite the media and even my fans believing that we actually found out that Isabella was a girl before she arrived we didn't. I am a modern woman, but I love the element of surprise when it comes to not knowing the sex of the baby. After I told Nnamdi we decided that once again we were not going to find out the sex of the baby."
Olivia was surprised. She had to admit that she thought her friend was just keeping it a secret from the public. When she was pregnant the first time she couldn't handle the element of surprise, but now it didn't sound so bad. She would discuss it with her husband.
Kerry asked, "So once you finish vacationing with the family what are your plans when it comes to work?"
"Well Sam & I met some incredible women when we got our makeover in Vegas, and right now the plan is for them to relocate. There are several properties I need to consider for purchase. After the baby is born, and we all get adjusted I plan to expand. I also plan to take over some of the women's cases pro bono. Before if someone asked me my plans I would be very specific, but I will say that this whole Jake experience has reminded me to live and enjoy life. I have plans, but I am also okay with the plans changing."
Kerry smiled, "I am happy to hear that. You work hard Liv. All the work that you are doing with your foundation is important. Not only are you working on building the empire, but you plan to also take on some cases. If anyone can do it all you are that woman. I am just glad that you are playing harder now. I know that neither of us is big on making promises, but promise me once you return home that you will continue to work hard, but play harder."
Olivia took her hand, "I will, but if you find me slipping hold me accountable."
"I will…"
The pair enjoyed their afternoon at the spa, and they also did some shopping. Both were excited to be pregnant, but being pregnant with your close friend was something special. They were looking forward to the coming months.
Fitz smiled when he saw his wife. He knew that his wife might be disappointed with him for keeping the secret that Kerry was also pregnant, but he knew it wouldn't last long. They had grown incredible close over time. He knew that Olivia didn't let a lot of people in her inner circle, and neither did Kerry so to see their friendship blossom was something special. Not only did his wife benefit, but so did he and the kids. He knew that they would grow closer. Other than himself Kerry would be his wife's best friend, and he had no problem with that. He felt the same way about Nnamdi.
They arrived in Juneau, Alaska where they were spending the day with their individual families again. This time Fitz & Olivia had brought their mom and significant others along with them as they prepared to spend the day whale watching.
They exited the yacht and got on a catamaran that was designed for wildlife viewing. As the family relaxed in the spacious main cabin they enjoyed their guided tour through the island waters of Stephen's Passage.
During their quest, they encountered humpback and killer whales, sea lions, harbor seals, bald eagles, bears, and deer.
The entire quest was over four hours so they had time to talk to each other. Halfway during the quest Olivia began to get tired. Nate & Jerome took care of Olivia. It seemed that Peanut wanted more food.
Nate laughed, "You are right. This baby is a bottomless pit."
Olivia nodded, "Now you believe me?"
Both men nodded.
It was a special moment to be sitting there with two men who were taking care of her like she was their own daughter. It was also kind of sad, because her dad never cared for her that way. Ironically, he would take care of his patients that way.
Olivia smiled at the two men, "It is important to me that you know how much I love the both of you. Not just for making our mom's happy, but the happiness that you bring Fitz & I. the happiness that you bring our children. I know we have talked about this in passing, but with me expecting again I want you to understand that in Fitz & I eyes you are our children's grandfather. My gut says that neither of you are going anywhere, and will stick around. I just want my children to have the love of their dad and grandads. Something I never expected they would get."
Nate took her hand, "You are right. We have no plans to go anywhere. You are stuck with us. I see you as my daughter. I know your dad wasn't very loving when he was alive, and I am sorry that he cared more about his patients than his family. I will never do that to you, your mom, or the kids. Just know if you need me I am here. I can never replace your dad, but I can be the father figure that you desire. More importantly I will be the grandfather you need the children to have."
Jerome nodded, "Nate is right. I won't sound like robot on repeat. I will just say that I am not going anywhere. I love you Olivia. Your strength is special, and I will support you and Fitz in whatever way you need me too. Not because I must or that I am trying to impress you, but because I want to. I need to. I consider you my baby too although you are an adult, and I look forward to us spending more time together as a family, but I hope we can do things separately too so we can build our own relationship."
Olivia looked at them, "I look forward to building lasting relationships with the both of you, and when we get back home I promise I will find time to spend with you both. As much as I care about the relationship you have with the kids I will admit that I love having two father figures in my life. I know it is something that Fitz loves as well."
Jerome looked at her, "What's wrong Liv?"
"I just don't know how to ask this question?"
"Just come out with it…"
"When I was kidnapped all I could think about was coming home to my family. My husband, my children, my moms, and dads. You treat me like a daughter. I see you as my dad's yet I don't refer to you as such. I just want to change that."
Nate smiled, "That is a change I would like."
Fitz came over and kissed his wife's forehead, "Good, I think I'll be a part of that change."
She smiled at her husband. He said, "I was just coming to make sure that you and Peanut were doing okay."
"We are doing fine. Go back to the kids. They look like they are enjoying this with you."
He looked her in the eyes. He wanted to make sure that she was physically fine. He knew she was having some minor back pain. Once he was sure she was fine he went back over to the kids.
At some point Bri made her way over to her mom. She asked to climb in her lap which Olivia readily agreed to.
Bri looked at her mom and at her bump. Right before taking the picture they explained to her that she was going to be a big sister, and that the bump was due to a baby being inside.
"Mama, baby inside tummy…"
Olivia kissed her forehead, "Yes sweetie. You know how Sheldon says Sam is his big sister, and Sheldon says he is your big brother."
She nodded, "Well when the baby comes and grows they will say you are their big sister, and they will look to you for help. Mommy will need your help, and I know you can do it because you are my big girl now."
Bri's eyes grew wide, "I ur big girl now?"
"You are mommy's big girl. You help me with lots of stuff, and I will need my big girl to help me."
"Otay, but mommy when the baby come will you still love me if I not a good big girl?"
Olivia's heart dropped for a moment, but she knew that her daughter was just trying to understand where she fit in all of this.
Olivia held her close, "You don't always have to get it right baby, and mommy will always love you to the moon and back because you are my baby. I want you to always know I love you and your brother and sister very much."
Sabrina looked up at her mom, "Luv you too mommy to the moon and back…"
She stayed in her mom's arms, and enjoyed a nice nap.
The next day they were in Skagway where the men were taking care of the children so Olivia could catch up and spend some quality time with her mom's.
They had decided to do a railway & city tour. The ladies loaded onto a vintage train that once carried miners into the gold fields of the Canadian wilderness.
For the next couple of hours, they enjoyed the mountains, and then the railways went through tunnels and over trestles. They even passed a waterfall that left them all breathless.
After the tour was complete the three of them decided to grab lunch.
Jenny asked, "Are you excited to be pregnant again?"
Olivia nodded, "I thought I was excited the first time, but this one feels even better than the first one. Maybe not physically, but I am not scared like I was the first time. Guilt is not eating me alive still on the inside. We don't have a whole lot of hidden mind fields around us. Most importantly more family and friends. I have never been more excited."
Maya nodded, "Good, because everyone deserves to be happy, but in life there are just some people that you feel deserve a little more happiness than others. You are one of those people."
Olivia looked at her mom unable to stop the tears from falling. A combination of hormones and real emotions.
She grabbed her mom's hand, "Mom, some time has passed and considering everything that happened with Jake I just wanted to take the time to once again apologize to you. I mean really apologize to you. It is my job as your daughter to take care of you, worry about you as you get older, and make your life easier. For so long I did none of those things. After all the mental anguish, you went through being married to dad and his job I would take you down a road of pain. Some days' guilt still eats me up that I wasn't there for you when you needed me most yet you have never failed me mom. I promise I will spend the rest of my life making sure you are happy. I love you so much mommy."
Maya caressed her daughter's cheek, "As a mom now you understand that there is nothing that you wouldn't do for your child. I accept your apology, but Liv I lived in the solace that you never set out to hurt me. While it was painful at the time I understand now it was about protecting all of us. Any remaining guilt you have let it go before you go home. You fought and won, and it is behind you. None of us are upset. We are all better people, and a family that is closer than ever. I might not have had you when I was fighting cancer, but the way I see it is I got you for my life after. That is more important to me. Everything happens for a reason. I always taught you that. Besides, if you really want to get technical we are even. I should have left your dad. I was too afraid to take a chance so I forced us to stay there until nature took its course."
Olivia looked up at her mom in shock. She then looked at Jenny which caused a fresh wave of tears.
"Ma, I am so sorry. I caused you to lose your son without him even leaving. I know we talked about this, but because it was my idea to put myself in harm's way I know that it took a toll on Fitz. Maybe more now than in the past. I don't want you to think that I don't take the love your son has for me seriously. I don't want you to think I don't value the love you have for me seriously. I am sorry that I haven't always had the guts to do what is right, and that has cost you a lot over the years. I feel like even if I got up and apologized to you every day that wouldn't be enough."
Jenny shrugged, "You are right. It wouldn't be if that was how I felt. Maya is right honey. At the time, it was hard to see a lot of things, but Liv you were always my daughter just like Fitz was always Maya's son even if the two of you never married. The pain we feel is always hard, but oh the joy we have now with not only the two of you finally getting it right and getting married, but the beautiful grandchildren you have given us. The one on the way, and the hopes that maybe we might get one more before it is all said and done is worth all the pain and more. None of us were happy with the fact that you put yourself in harm's way, but I know if it were me I would have done it in a heartbeat if the endgame is that I could live happily ever after with my family. Not in the shadow of danger. We are family. One big happy family. Maya is right. Whatever guilt you have left I want you to leave it by the time you come home. You have truly fought and won, and it would all be a waste if you had even an ounce of guilt left honey. Maya & I both made our mistakes too, but I think we both got it right when it came to giving you both father figures that can be there for you and Fitz even though you are both adults. We have a lot of life left to live, and I think after all we have been through we deserve to live. We are going to live especially you missy. If you love us like you say you do, then you will just live your life. Continue to be the wonderful wife and mom that you are. Live a little more. Continue to build your friendship with Kerry. You can trust her."
Olivia nodded knowing that everything her mom's said to her was right, and she was glad that she could spend quality time with them. She was the woman she was because of them. She made some mistakes, but ultimately, she was a good person.
The next day while they cruising the Pacific Ocean they arranged to have a private lunch with Sam and Nick. The couple asked to speak to them. Sheldon was hanging out with the grandparents while Bri was on a playdate with Bella.
From the time they set sail Fitz & Olivia hadn't spent a whole lot of time together. They had date night coming up, but this trip was about connecting with their family and friends. They were happy. Olivia's hormones required him to make love to her most nights, and he was glad to fulfill his role.
As he pulled out her chair she smiled at her husband. She jumped his bones in the shower. Fitz always made sure she was satisfied, but she made sure he was taken care of as well. No matter what their daughter wanted to talk to them about they were relaxed.
Olivia leaned over, "Order a glass a wine so I can suck on your tongue later…"
"You are being naughty Mrs. Grant."
"I know and you love it."
"Absolutely, that is why you are knocked up now."
"Won't be the last time…"
"Good…"
He took a moment to take his wife in, "I love you Livvie…"
"I love you more Fitz, and I promise to spend the rest of my life showing you how much!"
"Ditto…"
A short time later Sam and Nick showed up.
They enjoyed a nice lunch with the couple. The funny thing was Fitz & Olivia had an idea what they wanted to talk to them about via a conversation that Olivia had with Vanessa. She respected her daughter for coming to them. It showed that she respected them.
Sam looked at her parents, "Mom, dad I am not sure if Vanessa has said anything to you, but Kimmie received an internship. It is out of the country, and she will be gone at least a year. I considered moving to a one bedroom apartment, but we just renewed the lease. Technically, I can afford the bills, but I don't want to tap into my savings. You already know that Nick was trying to find a place closer to campus. We thought about him moving in. Although we are adults we wanted to discuss it with you first. I know we are not married. We are not trying to mess up our lives. We both want to get our degrees, get married, and focus on our careers before having children. Besides I want Kimmie to have a place to come back to when she gets back."
Nick looked at Fitz, "Pops, you know we have talked a lot recently. You know I would never do anything to disrespect what I am building with Sam. Also, the relationship that I have with you and Mama Liv. I love you all too much for that. I found out that I got a job being a TA so I will pay my part…"
Fitz stopped them. "Liv & I were aware of Kimmie's situation. Vanessa asked for some time to go and get her settled. Sam, we knew you needed time to deal with Kimmie leaving, and how you wanted to proceed so we gave you time."
Olivia nodded agreeing with her husband. She looked at Nick, "As Sam stated you both are adults. The fact that you are sitting down to talk to us show us how much you respect us, and that reason is one amongst many why we support you two living together. I do hope that the two of you finish college, find your dream jobs, and get married before settling down. I want that for all of my children, but I need you to understand that I don't expect perfection from you two. I want you two to be smart. Having a child is a huge responsibility, and we are no fools we know you two are not going to sleep in the same apartment and not having sex. If by chance the order of things changes my love doesn't change. We will deal with it as a family."
Fitz looked at his wife and then at his daughter and Nick, "Liv is right. I want you two to live your life, because you deserve it. Both of you have been through so much, and this is your time. Nick if I thought you wanted Sam because she is a Grant you would not be on this boat. Your father raised you well, and I'll never replace him. No man will, but I think you are the right man for my daughter, and Liv and I feel fortunate to consider you our son. Until you show us otherwise you are family. If the answer is not clear we are fine with you two living together. I also think that Kimmie will appreciate that you two care enough about her to leave your door open for her to return. This is a big opportunity for her, but I think for the two of you as well. I still expect the two of you to enjoy college life even though you are living together."
Sam stood up and hugged her parents, "Daddy, I promise I won't let you or mom down. Not after everything you have done for me."
Fitz held onto her tightly for a moment willing the tears to stay back, "The only way you will disappoint me is if you give up on yourself and your dreams. Since I know that neither of those things are going to happen you can never disappoint me."
Liv went over and hugged Nick, "I need you to do me a favor."
"Sure, but can I ask you a question?"
She nodded
"Before I left for the trip mom got a call from the bank stating that the mortgage to her home and office had been paid off as well as loans she took out to pay for me to go to college. There was also a deposit made that would cover me going to law school if I wanted to. The bank was not allowed to release any details. They weren't given any details on the debt. The bank was basically given a blank check, and told to clear her debt, deposit the money. Do you know anything about that?"
Olivia shrugged, "I plead the fifth. I am glad someone cared enough about the two of you to give you a fresh start. Lynn is a wonderful woman, and although I know she and your dad tried to prepare it wasn't enough. If I did anything it is because we are family. Your schooling is paid for. Now finish strong. That is all that I am going to say about that."
Nick knew his future mother-in-law. This was the closest he was going to get for an answer.
He nodded at her, "What is the favor?"
"Take this chance you have been given and do something great. If you need anything you now have more than your mom to lean on."
Nick looked her in the eye, "I promise…"
Later on that night Fitz & Olivia were on a double date with Nnamdi & Kerry. The girls were with the grandparents. It was cute to see the two of them in their own world. It made the ladies even more excited for the children that they were carrying now.
The couples were enjoying a four-course meal, and enjoying each other's company.
Olivia asked, "Kerry, do you have any projects in the work other than your normal filming?"
"We signed a production deal so we are floating several projects. My talented husband over here will be promoting another film soon, and although I am bias I think that people are going to love it."
Fitz asked Nnamdi, "Do you have a release date?"
He nodded, "It will premiere at the Sundance Festival!"
"Congrats man. I am glad to see that the foundation is growing as well as your acting and producing career. It looks like the Asomugha's have a seat at the table for sure."
Kerry nodded, "We are trying. Some days I want to pull my hair out. I get frustrated. It shouldn't be this hard. We are black. He was a former athlete, but people forget that he graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies with a focus in Corporate Finance. I am a woman so that alone makes me dumb in some men's eyes."
Nnamdi looked at his wife and smiled, "So sad that they don't see what is across from them. This is a woman who graduated from George Washington University with a double major in anthropology and sociology. She is no dummy. I knew that the first moment we met."
Fitz smiled and looked at his wife, "I understand where you are coming from man. I always tell people. My wife is smarter than me. When they say, she is the best I think some of them look at her like she is a slogan until she walks into the room, and brings them to their knees. That is always my favorite part."
Kerry & Olivia smiled as their husbands bragged about them. They were real men who were comfortable in their skin. Fitz & Nnamdi were not intimidated by the intelligence of their wives. It seemed to turn them on. It was a real confidence booster for both women. It really allowed them to go out into the world, and give it their wall when they had the support they had waiting at home.
The rest of the date was fun. They continued to catch up with each other. They promise to find ways for the girls to do more playdates. Olivia's schedule was more flexible now so she told Kerry she had no problem picking up the girls since she had a busy production schedule not to mention award season was coming up. Olivia knew that Kerry didn't like leaving Bella with the nanny any longer than necessary so she volunteered to keep Bella for the award shows other than the one that her parents were scheduled to be in town for.
Both couples barely made it into the room where they spent the evening making passionate love.
The next day it was just Fitz & Olivia. They had decided to spend their day exploring Kenai Mountains.
They started out with a 90-minute drive through the mountains surrounding Seward en route to Portage Glacier. It was a beautiful view. Olivia snuggled up to her husband while they took in the scenery.
The couple were taken to Alyeska Resort. They boarded the tram that took them to the top of Mount Alyeska.
The couple were in paradise enjoying the vantage points. Fitz was showing Olivia the moose and bear below. She was giddy like their children, and he loved when she was like this. Where she let her guard down and just be.
They enjoyed lunch on the resort at the top of the mountain.
Fitz asked, "Are you having a good time honey?"
She looked at her husband, "You mean today or period?"
"Both…"
"I am having the best time of my life. Being able to connect with our family and friends meant more to me than I could ever imagine. With everything that has happened I needed this. We needed this, and anytime I am with you I am complete. I know you know that I love you Fitz, but I know I haven't always been the best with showing it. I know I can get caught up in projects, and my priorities get screwed up. I won't promise that I won't mess up from time to time what I promise to remember you and the children come first."
He leaned over and shared a short but passionate kiss with his wife. He looked her in the eyes, "I know we have so much to look forward to. I am beyond excited. Being able to reconnect with everyone is something I can't explain. The time that I have been able to spend with the kids and you is priceless. I would give it all up to have these moments. Promise me one thing."
"For you anything…"
"Every year at some point we will take one week to spend as a family. We will draw a name on New Year's, and that person will get to choose where they want to go wherever they want in the world. Based on their decision is when we will determine when the best time to go. We will also take a week for ourselves, and we will alternate who picks the location."
Olivia smiled, "It's a promise I look forward to keeping…"
After lunch, they were driven to the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center. They were shown several animals that were being rehabilitated to be released back to the wild.
They made it back to the boat. They checked in with their family before getting ready for dinner.
Olivia stepped out their bedroom expecting to find Fitz, but she found a purple rose with a note waiting for her.
The note read: You are a beautiful woman, but it is your beauty on the inside that I fell in love with all those years ago. Every moment with you is an adventure. My love for you grows stronger, and I can't wait to fall more in love with you because I know it is possible. I am waiting for you and Peanut on the balcony.
She steps on their private balcony to find her husband decked out in a custom Brooks Brother suit. He has his hair gelled back other than that errant curl that does what it wants.
Fitz is enjoying his wife who is a vision in white. She had decided to wear a white CD sleeveless fishtail-embroidered dress.
Fitz walked over and kissed his wife. "You look sexy Mrs. Grant…"
"Just trying to keep it spicy for my husband."
"Don't worry. Your husband is not going anywhere. He is head over heels in love with you. There is nothing he wouldn't do for you or his family."
"Good, because I feel the same way about him."
The couple shared a passionate kiss. They danced on the balcony to a tune in their head. It felt good to be wined and dined. Fitz was such a romantic. She promised herself that when they got back home she would do more to romance him as well.
He heard her stomach growl and it caused them to both laugh.
Fitz bent down and kissed her small bump, "Okay, Peanut. Daddy is about to feed you and mommy.
On cue, there was a knock at the door, and two carts were rolled in.
Fitz had the chef prepare them a five-course meal.
They were going to enjoy a meal consisting of
1st course-Creamy Seafood Lobster Bisque
2nd course-Pear, Blue Cheese, and Candied Pecan Salad
3rd course-Bruschetta with Tomato and Basil
4th course-Chicken Parmigiano
5th course-Chocolate Lava Cake with Caramel
The couple laugh and joke during dinner. It felt good to just take the time for themselves. Fitz smiles because he knows by the look on his wife's face that she is not willing to share the cake which is fine. He is stuffed. When she was pregnant with Bri she ate, but nothing like with Peanut. She was also stressed a lot during the pregnancy even though she tried to hide it from him. Other than her initial concern about the welfare of the baby after the kidnapping she was stress free. Her and the baby were enjoying all kinds of food. She would eat healthy, but he noticed when she wanted junk food she ate it too hence him not getting any cake.
When the cake was about gone she realized her husband barely had a bite. She looked up at him apologetically.
He smiled. "I'm good. I promise. Besides I prefer licking the chocolate off you."
Olivia's breath hitched.
Before things got out of control she decided to bring up something.
She climbed in his lap. He got nervous. "When you climb in my lap like this then I know you have something important to tell me. I thought we were good."
"We are more than good. It is about the baby. When Kerry told me about her being pregnant at lunch the other day she mentioned that they really didn't know Bella's sex, and plan to not find out the sex of this baby."
Fitz nodded allowing her to complete her thoughts.
"I have been thinking. With Bri I wasn't in a place where I could really enjoy not knowing the sex of our child. I needed control to feel safe, but things are different for me and for us. There is such a freedom of not knowing the sex of the baby. I wanted to make sure Kerry didn't feel like I was copying them, and she thought it would be fun if we decided that is what we want."
Fitz pushed her hair to the side and kissed her neck, "So you want to go through this pregnancy, and find out the sex of the baby in the delivery room?"
Olivia was about to get up thinking that he hated the idea. Fitz wouldn't let her up. He forced her to look him in the eyes.
When she did she realized, he was excited. She leaned down and kissed him with so much love and passion it took his breath away.
He finally spoke, "I think the fact that you want to really enjoy this pregnancy shows your growth. I don't care about the sex of the baby. I just want a healthy baby and wife. Just seeing you so relaxed and happy is all I ever wanted for you. Whatever I need to do to keep you as happy as you have been let me know. I don't want to lose what we have built while we have vacationed. I love you Olivia. All of you, but I am head over heels in love with this Olivia in front of me."
Hearing her husband pour his heart out to her did something to her. She knew she had put him through some things as she tried to get her life on track. He never said a word to her. Even when they argued he never threw it in her face. She knew his fears, because he shared many of them. She promised herself when she put herself in harm's way that if she came out on the other side she wouldn't put her new lease on life to waste. She deserved more, but more importantly her family deserved more.
She stood up and unzipped her dress. She slowly undressed her husband kissing every inch of him that she undressed.
Before she took his length in her mouth she looked him in the eyes, "I can't make that promise to you…"
Before Fitz can share his disappointment she deep throats him making him momentarily forget his name. She massaged his balls while she alternating sucking hard and soft. It was something about the way she was handling him tonight that felt different despite what she just said. Before he could dwell on it any longer she pulled out before taking him completely. She started humming until he exploded, and she didn't waste a drop of him.
While he was recovering, she finished getting undressed. She climbed in his lap. Before she slid down on his cock she looked him in the eyes.
"I can't make you that promise, because I promise to be better than I am now. I was given another chance. Another lease on life, and I intend to use it being the best version of myself which will make me a better wife and mother. I promise you will be better than we are now. To seal the deal, I am going to make love to my husband so you can feel how much I love you. Will you let me do that?"
Fitz was trying to process her words. Just a minute ago, he thought his wife was seducing him so he would drop the subject only to find out she was seducing him, but to show him that she was all in.
He was processing her words when she slid down on his cock. She never took her eyes off him. She was rocking to a beat in her head that was driving him crazy.
She had total control at the moment. Every thrust was a promise that she was going to be a better wife, mother, and woman. Every thrust was thanks for holding out hope that they would one day have a life together. Every thrust was an appreciation for sticking it out with her.
She leans over and licks his ear, "I love you Fitz…"
For the first time, ever he is at a loss for words while they were making love. If Olivia wasn't so turned on she would blush at the fact that she had made her man speechless.
She leaned over so her breast was right by his mouth. She began to rub her breast across his cheek while licking his ear. His tip right at her opening.
She was about to tease him some more when she felt the tears. She leaned back and looked at her husband.
She kissed the tears away and whispered in his ear, "This is real. I am here. We fought and we won. He doesn't get a say so ever again. Not just this moment, but he doesn't get a say in another moment in our lives I promise you. I love you Fitz. I am in love with you. I can't breathe without you. I can't sleep without you. Without you I realize I am nothing."
To not only hear the conviction in her voice but to see it meant everything to his heart. He didn't realize how much he needed this moment until now. He had been the strong one for so long, but tonight and going forth she was saying he didn't have to do it all alone anymore.
He finally looks her in the eyes and now she has tears, "I love you too baby so much. I am nothing without you Livvie. I wasn't living until you came back into my life. Please don't leave me again."
She slid back down onto his cock. They shared a passionate kiss before she pulled back, "I am not going anywhere honey…"
The couple spend the rest of the cruise reconnecting with each other as well as their family and friends. Olivia thought she would be sad when the vacation ended, but she was excited.
She was ready to go home, and really began her life with her family. They would have normal problems, but her past was finally where it belonged. In the rear-view mirror. She had a new outlook on life. It was the beginning of the rest of their life.
A/N-I hope that you all enjoy the family vacation. I thought about another chapter, but I am ready to move this story onto the next chapter. Life post Jake. In this story I always intended for Kerry & Olivia to be friends, but the details have come as the story progressed using real life information on Kerry along with my creative juices. For those of you that care the colleges and degrees that I discussed that Kerry & Nnamdi have are real, and the ones that they received.
Check out my Twitter account for date night outfit kimberl17711667