A/N-This is my version of what went down after Rowan escaped. Keep in mind some things will be familar and some drastically different.
Olivia had lied to Fitz. She lied. She told him she that her father had escaped from prison. She left out the fact that she helped to make it happen.
She knew that he deserved better. She should have never sent Abby in there with the engagement ring. While she stood by her original decision that she didn't want to marry him under the circumstances one thing had changed.
She realized that she really was in love with Fitz. Now that they were standing in the sun, and everyone knew about their relationship she knew that she really was never some mistress. Fitz kept his promise. He wanted a life with her, and he had not shied away even with the media presence. She didn't want their relationship to end.
Jake couldn't fix it for her this time. She no longer had to share Fitz. She had him all to herself, and now she put herself in a position to lose it all.
The meeting with Jake had gone horribly wrong. She expected him to understand where she was coming from. Jake was bitter at this point, and understanding was the last thing he was going to give her.
Fitz walked in and interrupted their conversation. He wasn't naïve. He knew Olivia was not telling him the whole truth about their conversation.
Olivia left to head to the office to meet with her team. Jake was about to leave as well when Fitz asked him to stay behind.
Jake closed the door.
Fitz looked at him, "You know I know why a lot of people think I'm a fool, but we served together so you I don't get."
"I don't follow Mr. President."
"Bullshit Jake. See I get why you went after Olivia even after knowing it was me that she was seeing. I get that in your mind you didn't believe I really loved her. She was the mistress. I wanted to keep her in the dark. I would never choose her. That is why you told her to come to me. You didn't expect her to come. You didn't expect her to choose me. More importantly you didn't expect me to choose her. You thought that when things got hot I would run. Does it burn to know that after all this time it was Olivia who was running not me. It is Olivia who is still running to you, and you keep hoping she will for once choose you. You are helping me to spite Rowan, but more importantly to spite Olivia for what she has done to you."
"Are you saying this is on me?"
"No, not all of it. What I am saying is Jake don't act like you didn't know what you were getting into. Olivia was never yours. I'm not saying that to throw it in your face. I'm saying it because it is true. That is why you spend so much time trying to convince her that she is better with you. Don't worry I'm going to address that soon. She is going to get one final chance to choose you, and don't act like you aren't excited. I've done my part. I'm divorced. We both said we were done sharing. I've closed my door. Now she gets to decide if she wants to close hers. Regardless you should have more respect for me. Not as President, but as a man you use to call your friend and brother."
Jake nodded
"When I talk with Olivia I am going to ask her to make that decision. If she decides this is too much, and she wants to walk I will respect it. If she decides she is all in with me I expect you to respect it. This time I am talking to you man to man with respect. Next time I can't promise the same."
A day later Olivia was sitting down with Abby. Abby was trying to convince her to tell Fitz the truth. She didn't want to. Abby assumed it was because she was being Olivia until Olivia looked up at Abby.
"Abby, it is not about my ego. It is because when I tell him we are done. We are over. We are never getting back together. I'm not ready for that Abby. I am not ready for it to be over."
Abby went over and hugged her friend, "Then you need to tell him. If you don't Cyrus will. He is going to use David to get what he wants."
Later on that night the couple was lying in bed. Fitz knew something was on her mind, but she wasn't ready to spill the beans.
He looked at her and asked, "Can I ask what you are thinking about?"
"No…"
She turns and looks at him, and she falls in love with him a little more. With her past relationships including Jake if she said no they probed more. They couldn't let it go especially Jake. She felt like it was to one up Fitz. To be able to say she confided in me. Not him. He gave her space. Allowed her time to get her thoughts together.
She leaned over and kissed him, and he welcomed the kiss. She finally pulled back. He stared at her. Not to demand any answers, but to say it was okay. He was there.
He asked if she wanted to watch television. She let him know that she didn't, but was fine the way they were. She needed to be in his arms. It was safe, and it might be the last time she got to enjoy the moment.
He held her. She slept in his arms the entire night, and it was the best and worst feeling ever. The best because he felt safe and loved. The worst because she might not ever get that moment again.
The next morning, they shared breakfast together, and talked before they were on their separate ways to start their day.
What a day it was. Olivia had not believed the translator, and thought that he was lying to find a way to stay in the country. Her team of gladiators told her so, and now they told her they were wrong. He was wrong about them storing nuclear weapons at the location, but they were storing something there.
Olivia rushed out the office to get back to the hospital. She reached out to Abby, and demanded Abby find a way to stop Fitz from signing the treaty.
While Abby was dealing with Fitz she made it to the room only to find the translator had attempted to kill himself.
Abby was successful in getting Fitz to halt the sign of the treaty. Fitz in turn got Susan to help out by doing something she is great at, and that is putting her foot in her mouth.
Meanwhile Olivia was also successful in saving the translator life. In conversation she learned that he was gay, and sending him back was a death sentence. She assured him that wouldn't happen.
Olivia stepped out the room to handle some business when she ran into the FBI. As expected David's investigation led him to Olivia and she was arrested.
Cyrus acted none the wiser when David presented the information.
When Fitz got the call that Olivia was arrested he was beyond livid. He was so sick and tired of people treating him like he was a child. Before this was over he was going to show his Presidential balls, and make those around him think twice before they crossed him again.
On the way over he was thinking of the conversation he had with Olivia.
Flashback to Breakfast
Olivia was not a breakfast person, but with Fitz she would try to eat something light to start her day. As she looked at the toast in front of her she felt sick. It had nothing to do with the toast.
She whispered, "I'm ready to tell you what is on my mind."
Fitz could tell this was bad so he could only nod.
"I was part of the plan to help my father escape from prison. My dad called from prison. He said that someone was out to kill him. I didn't believe him at first, but by the end of the talk I knew he wasn't trying to pull a fast one over me. I wanted to not care, but at the end of the day he is still my dad. I've helped people who have done worse.
"Why didn't you just tell me?"
"I went to Mellie to ask for her help. I knew she had the ability to get him out. She went through her normal song and dance. That was until she realized that the man she helped kill those jurors was my dad. More than that he was the man that murdered her son. I left knowing she was going to be of no help."
"What changed?"
"Right before we were to be married she called. I met her, and she was singing a whole new tune about realizing that she was wrong to hate me just you. On and on about nothing. Then the blackmail began. I was going to help her become President. Then my father and Tom came into the room, and here we are now. I don't know where he is."
Fitz got up and left without saying another word to Olivia. Devastated didn't even began to capture how she felt, but she had no time to feel sorry for herself so she forced some food down, and left to head to the office.
End Flashback
As Fitz headed over to the location where Olivia was being held something dawned on him that didn't earlier. That realization hurt him more than anything else.
They made their way inside the building. When he walked in he was saddened to see the love of his life chained to a table like a dog.
When he opened the door Olivia knew he had pieced it all together. They hadn't discussed it when she confessed to him at breakfast. She knew he was reeling from all that she said, but now that the time had come.
He asked her if it was true. He knew she was scared, but the realization hit him even more after the conversation he had with Jake.
He uncuffed her and asked her again. She pulled her hand away in shame.
'I love you. I want a life with you. Just not the way we were doing it."
"That's bullshit, and you know it. You are afraid to commit to me. You want to have your cake and eat it to. That is why you keep calling Jake.
She looked up at him in shock.
"Before you ask no I am not spying on you. I don't have agents reporting back to me. You disappeared with him, and I overhead you on the phone with him."
"I don't want him."
"You can't say that. If you didn't have any feelings for him, you wouldn't keep running to him. You have friends. You have Abby. The problem is Abby calls it like it is. She tells you the truth, and you don't want to hear that."
She got up and tried to touch him and he pulled back.
"No, you don't get to touch me. You don't get to hold me like you love me."
"But I do love you."
"Yes with conditions. Time and time again I told you I would give it up for you. Time and time again I promised you were it for me. When the time came I held up my end of the bargain. It is clear to me you don't have the same intentions. I told Jake I would give you one last opportunity to decide who you wanted. If you want to be with him go to him. This time I won't stop you, and I won't make you feel guilty for choosing him. Just know if you choose him my door closes. It is not a threat. I just can't keep doing this Olivia."
He stood up and looked at her. He wanted to comfort her. He had never seen her this emotional, but he couldn't she brought this on herself.
He stopped for a moment and said, "I thought loving you in the open would be enough. I thought that once I proved I would choose you time and time again you would stop running. Maybe you should choose him. At least you run to him."
He walked out and Olivia broke down.
Fitz made it back to the office. He was working when Cyrus came in. He was going on and on about Olivia. Apologizing for the sequence of events.
Fitz let him go on until he heard enough, "I want her released today. As soon as possible Olivia needs to be released. I don't care what has to happen."
"Sir, that it not wise."
"I don't give a damn Cy. Just do it."
"Yes sir."
Cyrus made his way to the door when Fitz called him. He turned around.
"Come have a seat"
Cyrus sat down, and Fitz sat across from him.
"You know what I find interesting about you and Mellie trying to destroy Olivia every chance you get is that this is the one person that has your back. Mellie likes to play innocent yet she has had numerous affairs to my one. My one to a woman I fell in love with. The same woman who told me about you and James. She was so happy that you found happiness. She didn't care that it was with a man, and neither did I. The joy she had for her friend is something I can never describe. When you got in a jam with Michael she didn't think twice about helping you. Instead of bending over backwards to be there for her you have attempted to have her killed, and now you lie to David so he can investigate Rowan's disappearance knowing it would lead back to Liv. Who needs friends when they have enemies like you."
Cyrus was shocked that Fitz was aware of the investigation, but didn't put a stop to it. That lead him to believe that Olivia knew as well. Yet neither confronted him. Then it was what Fitz said about Olivia. He didn't realize how much she supported him. He didn't realize that she really cared. It wasn't about the job or Fitz's presidency. It was about his happiness.
Fitz continued, "I don't know the status of my relationship with Olivia right now, but that is between us. I am grateful that you came back, but make no mistake I am President. Do I want to finish my term? Yes of course, but not at the expense of those I love. I love Olivia. I am in love with Olivia, and whether we remain together or not I will not allow you, Mellie, Rowan, or anyone else to bully her again. If you cross me again I am going to burn your old ass. Do I make myself clear?"
"Crystal Mr. President!"
The next couple of weeks were rough for the couple. The first week Olivia closed herself off to everyone. For the first half of the week she spent it at their house in Maryland. She had pretty much all of her things moved.
Fitz had purchased her new clothes so she was going to donate some of her clothes at her apartment. Early on in their relationship Fitz had paid the mortgage off for her apartment and office. He wanted to make sure she was taken care of any way he could.
After a couple of days, she went back to the apartment. They had made a lot of memories in that house in one weekend, and it made her sick to think she would be the cause of them not making anymore.
She couldn't lay around the second week. She had clients that needed her, and Abby had called. They didn't want people to start talking about a breakup.
Fitz wasn't quite ready to deal with Olivia so he had his schedule rearranged some after everything went down. He wasn't at the White House during the day for the most part.
It made it easier for Olivia to be there without having to see Fitz. She had tried to call him, email him, and text him. He only responded to her once asking for time so she stopped.
She was having lunch with Abby. Since there blowup they had been working on their friendship. They talked to each other, and listened to other which allowed them to respect each other.
After lunch Abby said, "You guys are not over. He is processing everything, and I think that if you do the work you guys will be fine."
"What work Abby?"
"Liv you have to decide what and who you want. Your parents have messed with your head so much that you don't know love when you see. I mean real love. I'll admit I wasn't sure if Fitz loved you or the idea of you, but I know it is love. I love you, but I don't think you get it. I think over the years you felt I stayed around out of obligation, and not out of love. Yes, I appreciated what you did for me, but I loved working for my friend. I loved coming to work with my friend being a gladiator. That is why I was so mad that you left. It really wasn't that you left it was how you left. You left because you didn't think anyone loved you. You took all the blame, and you left with the one person who you thought really cared about you. Yet I disagree I think Jake is in love with the idea of you being his. I think he loves you yes, but not like Fitz. Fitz loves you Liv faults and all. Think about all that you have put him through. Has he once ever asked you to change?"
Olivia thought about what Abby had to say and she was right. They talked for a little while longer, and Abby helped her make some plans.
She went back to the office, and talked with her team. Marcus was going to run point on the cases from now on with Olivia consulting only when needed. Huck & Quinn would continue to do what they do. Everyone had no problem with the announcement which shocked Olivia for a moment until she thought about what Abby said.
Later on that night she was still in the office working on some files to send to Marcus when Jake came in. She had not called him. Not because she needed time to think she was just over him, and didn't feel the need to discuss it.
She looked up at him. He said, "I was waiting on your call."
"Because my boyfriend told you he was giving me a chance to come back to you?"
"Yes…"
"Well I understand why he did it, but it never should have come to that. I never should have put him in that position. I tried with you at one time. Even when we left together. I would get normal with you, but that would be about it."
"So you don't think I love you or that you never loved me?"
"I know that you love me. I don't know if I loved you or lusted for you, but I know it is not what I want. I realize it is easier with you not because of who you are, but what we have. Real love, long lasting love is hard. You have to fight for it. You have to maintain it. I never had or honestly wanted that with you, but I have it with Fitz. You came here to hear it. I am closing the door."
"You played me."
"Jake don't play games. We didn't meet on the street. I was your assignment that you wanted more with. I thought I did too, and at one time I can say we were a couple. We aren't anymore, and we can't be friends. Not because Fitz asked, but because I love him enough to respect him. I don't want him to wonder or think he is competing with you, because there is no competition."
Olivia packed her stuff to leave. She was heading back to Maryland. Abby had arranged to move the rest of her things, and donate the items she wanted to charity. She was moving into the house in Maryland full time as Fitz requested.
"What is going to happen when he finds out what you did?"
Olivia turned around, "He already knows."
The next morning Fitz was eating breakfast with Teddy before left for the West Coast for some prescheduled meetings.
Olivia had sent word to leave Teddy as they had discussed. He appreciated Olivia giving him time. He knew he wasn't breaking up with her. He just needed to find a way to move on. First he had to find out if Olivia really wanted a future with him.
Cyrus came into the Residence with his itinerary for the next couple of days, information on the meetings and stops he would be making, and a third folder was marked "First Lady's Calendar".
Fitz looked up at Cyrus, "Why would I need a copy of Mellie's schedule?"
Cyrus stood up, "Because it isn't Mellie's schedule anymore?"
Fitz opened it up to find that Olivia was handling some of the events that were on the calendar. He noticed the ones she kept were the ones that would impact him the most in a positive way. Meeting with inner city children, visiting the children cancer center, meeting with career women who wanted to push for equal pay, and the biggest one was she was traveling to meet with military families. He noticed that some of the events were scheduled while he was gone, and some were moved to when he returned.
He didn't have time to talk to her, and he got the feeling that is how she wanted it. He grabbed his jacket and made his way to the car.
He opened his tablet to check his personal emails, and at the top was one from Olivia. He quickly opened the email.
Hi Babe (He smiled. He loved when she called him that. He knew she was relaxed, happy, and most of all completely there with him),
I know by now you have seen the schedule. If you are wondering, why I handled it the way I did is because I want to earn you. I wanted to show you on my own that I am in this. I am scared as hell, and I am still unsure how to navigate life in front of the cameras but I am more than willing to try for you. I don't say this enough but I love you. I am in love with you Fitzgerald Thomas Grant III. I am truly sorry for making you question my love for you. I am also sorry for not believing in our love the way that you have. It was never intentional just me not allowing it to happen. I am still giving you space, because you deserve it. It is the least I can give you after all that I put you through. I just want you to know that I choose you. I want you. I want a life with you. I know that we still have some battles to get through, but if you will still have me I am more than happy to get through them at your side. Good luck. I know you will succeed. I did take the liberty of switching your ties out with your suits. If I had it to do over again I would at the very least be your fiancée right now. I love you to the moon and back. Yours always Livvie.
Fitz smiled. At the end of the day he rather fight, and make up with her than Mellie. While it might sound crazy he knew what he was battling when it came to Olivia. She was fighting her past, her parents, and herself. Mellie was evil. You never knew what she was up to.
The next couple of days were busy for the couple. They didn't talk but had exchanged text messages. Olivia was just happy to hear from him.
She found that she enjoyed the events that she attended. Mellie had made herself ornamental in some ways. When Olivia spoke people wanted to hear what she thought. Her voice mattered, and to many surprise especially Cyrus she struck the perfect balance.
She always tied her thoughts into what was going on with Fitz. From the treaty being signed to bills he was working on. She was never bigger than her boyfriend. No she was his equal. In return he supported her from across the country.
He was clear that he didn't demand that Olivia fill in the position of First Lady, but he was appreciative. They didn't want to let the country down especially the kids, because of his personal life.
The couple's actions caused Fitz's approval ratings to go up 15 points in that short amount of time. Olivia was quickly losing the label of mistress. It was clear that the President loved her, and now she was showing that she loved him and the country just as much.
The White House posted videos of Olivia with the school children and at the hospital. It melted America's heart, but more importantly it melted Fitz's heart.
She had stepped out of her signature power suits, and wore dresses. The dresses were still very much her, but it spoke volumes to him. She was showing him that she was willing to bend for him to.
He could tell that while she might have been reluctant and scared to attend the events; once she was there she was glad she did it.
Teddy had quickly broken down those walls that she built up that said she had no motherly instincts. Much to Mellie's dismay Teddy loved his Libby. She was a better mom to him and Karen after Jerry died, but that had gone by the wayside lately with her power trip.
Karen no longer cared. She had talked with Olivia, and they hashed out their differences. Teddy wanted to be with Olivia anytime she allowed.
He made it back to D.C. for the night. He had to leave the next morning for a trip to London. He had made some calls, and with the help of Abby & Cyrus Olivia would be arriving in London for the weekend with him.
She didn't expect him in town. He had made some calls, and decided that before he left he would have an honest conversation with Olivia after speaking with Jake.
Olivia had taken a shower. She was looking around his bedroom. Technically it was their bedroom. She stayed here more days than not lately. The phone rung pulling her out of her thoughts.
It was Mellie. She was threatening her once again. It became crystal clear how stupid it was to ever go to Mellie. For someone so smart she could be an idiot, but she promised to try and not make the same mistakes again.
"Mellie, he already knows."
That took the wind out of her sail. Once again she was no longer controlling the show. She had no idea what she was going to do now.
She saw clothes being rolled down the hall. It brought her out of her thoughts. She walked down the hall, and noticed it wasn't any clothing it was her clothes. Some clothes that she currently owned, and a lot of new clothes.
There were dresses and suits that were very her, but she was wondering where they came from until she felt him. She didn't need to turn around to know it was him, and she was nervous and scared. She didn't know what was going on. So she did the only thing that she knew how to do, and that was sit there.
Fitz sat down and waited until she turned and looked at him. She finally asked the million-dollar question, "Why are my clothes being brought in here?"
"They are being brought here because you live here Livvie. No more games. If we are going to be together, and we want forever it begins now. You live here full time. I am assigning a detail to protect you. I am not demanding you turn into First Lady, but I need you here with me by my side."
Olivia looked up at him and nodded
Fitz continued, "I believe you when you say that someone is after your dad. The list is never ending Liv. I know there was a discussion of me pulling back on your dad, but I can't do that. Not only did he kill my son, but he is a dangerous man. He killed Jake's wife, and I believe that if he has to choose you or himself that he would choose himself Liv. I can't or won't wait to find out."
She was in his arms as he finished the statement. She knew what he was saying, and she wanted to be mad but she wasn't. She was sad. Her parents were horrible, but they were still her parents. She couldn't be mad at Fitz. Hell he was the only one that put her first. He had never put his hands on her in anger, and he really loved her. She meant what she said she was all in.
"I understand. Do you need to go down to the office?"
He pulled back and smiled, "No, but it would be nice to finish making up with my girlfriend. We haven't properly done that."
Olivia pulled back and smiled, "How can I finish making up with my boyfriend?"
"Be in our bed naked when I get out of the shower!"
"I can do that."
When Fitz got out of the shower he made it to the bed, and as promised there was his Livvie naked as requested.
He smiled down at her as she threw the towel wrapped around his waist down on the floor. He climbed in the bed. She pulled him on top of her. She missed hm. All of him. Not just the sex, but being in his arms. Knowing he loved her was something she was never going to risk again.
He caressed her face, "I love you so much Livvie. I wish there was something that I could do that would make you believe that there is nothing that I wouldn't do for you."
"You do babe. It is me that is hurting us. I had a nice long talk with Abby, and between the two of you I realized that I need to learn that love doesn't always hurt. I don't have to jump through hoops, or do anything but be me."
"Abby is right. You are enough Livvie. Even if we don't make it I need you to never forget that. I just need to ask you one more time now that we are having this conversation, because I want you to understand this is your choice. Do you want to be here Livvie? Do you want this life with me?
Olivia looked at him. He had never been sincerer in their relationship. He had made demands before, and she knew that he was making sure this time she knew she could leave. No guilt trip. He wanted her to be happy, and that sealed the deal for her.
"I want to be here Fitz. I want to be here with you by your side as your First Lady. For once I want to give you something in this relationship. I love you."
He slid into her without warning. It had been a couple of weeks, and both of them needed a moment to compose themselves. Olivia needed a moment to acclimate her body. Her man was packing. When she looked at him he smiled, "I love you too…"
They spent the night making love in every imaginable position. Fitz didn't get much sleep, and he didn't care. He had many sleepless nights due to the job, his ex, and at times the kids. This was his kind of sleepless night.
Olivia was up the next morning with him. Her & Teddy sat at the table and enjoyed breakfast with Fitz. For the first time Olivia walked with him before he boarded Marine 1.
Fitz had to admit he was surprised when she saw her change to walk him out. He was even more surprised when she kissed him. She waved until he was no longer in sight, and when it was over she couldn't be happier.
She had her team come over to the White House to meet so she didn't have to leave Teddy with the nanny. She was just as attached to him as he was to her.
Marcus didn't know Olivia as well as the others so he wasn't as shocked to see her being a boss and mom at once. Truthfully he thought she was capable of handling the role, and would be a great role model for young black women.
Quinn & Huck were a little shocked at first, but fell in line. All that mattered was that she was happy, and they knew she was. They would protect her at all cost, but now that extended to the President and kids. They were part of her happiness.
Olivia could see in Huck & Quinn's body when they realized this was who she was now. They had accepted it. She also knew they would protect Fitz & the kids as well as her, and she was okay with that.
Abby had brought them all lunch, and she smiled at her best friend. She loved the dynamics of their relationship now. It was give and take. How friendships and relationships should be.
Abby was working with Liv to create a schedule for her. She was going to be hosting several events especially with the holidays coming up.
The days had gone by fast, and Olivia was on her way to London. As she sat on the plane going through files she stopped and smiled. This is what she wanted. She wanted the world to know that he loved her. That he wanted her. She wanted to step off the plane, and the cameras be on her because then the world knew who the President really loved.
This was new though. They were now taking their relationship international. The White House had announced that she would be joining Fitz for the weekend. They would be eating dinner with the Queen on Sunday.
Fitz wanted her to have the royal treatment so he had selected several gowns for her to pick from, and each one had jewelry paired with it.
This was no ordinary weekend.
There was a knock at Mellie's door. It was Teddy's agents when he was at the White House. Fitz wanted to minimize Mellie's reach so he had different agents who went with Teddy when he was with her. That way she couldn't try to seduce information out of them. He wasn't taking any chances with her.
Mellie answered the door, "May I help you?"
Marta was behind the agents, "I am here to pick up Teddy."
"Teddy is not going anywhere. I don't know who Fitz thinks he is."
Her assistant came with the phone. She knew it was Fitz, "Who the hell do you think you are?"
"Shut up Mellie. See I let you get your say in after you signed the divorce papers. Now it is my turn. You could have had a life outside of me. You made the choices you did. When my disgusting father raped you instead of coming to me. Instead of going to the police you used it for power. It doesn't excuse what he did, but you can stop the feel sorry for you act. I only feel sorry for victims. You are no victim. When we were losing you sat down and lied about being pregnant when women every day suffer miscarriages for children they really wanted. You cry about my affair with Olivia yet you were okay with it until it hurt you when you thought I might have to leave. So you see you equally disgust me. Actually even more because even after you found out the man you helped kill those jurors was the same man that killed our son you willingly climbed in bed with him. This time to blackmail his daughter. So let me remember, oh yes to be President. Well good luck with that. My son is headed to London to spend the weekend with me, and visit his sister. If you come after Olivia again. If you breathe the wrong way in her direction I am going to use the full force of my power to tear you apart limb by limb. You've called me a bastard more times than I can count. Well I'm living up to the title just like you live up to the title of bitch every chance you get. Now hand my son over, and go drink your Hooch, and treat your staff like garbage. You'll see your son in two weeks unless you want to play games. That card you held for so long means nothing. She's no longer America's Mistress, but America's Sweetheart."
Fitz hung up. Mellie was too stunned for words. Marta got Teddy, and left.
Olivia arrived and the media was waiting. She didn't disappoint when she stepped off in her navy/ivory Carolina Herrera embellished striped dress.
She was still getting use to her detail, but Fitz picked two women and two men for her detail. When she wasn't traveling she only would have two of them with her. Fitz knew Huck & Quinn were her unofficial agents which is why he was okay with the two.
Olivia was grateful when she found out, and she had to admit that she liked her agents. They were all between the ages of 25-35.
Fitz had booked for them to stay at 41 Hotel. It was a boutique hotel, and he knew that Olivia would enjoy it.
It was also opposite of Buckingham Palace and the Royal Mews so it was convenient for him earlier in the week.
Fitz had reserved them the two-bedroom apartment. Cyrus had stayed in the other room prior to this morning, but was moved to a suite as planned once they left out.
Olivia loved the marble bathrooms, the flame fireplaces, and how homey the place felt. Shortly after Olivia arrived there was a knock at the door.
Her agent Donna had an arrangement of orchids and a dress bag. She helped Olivia before leaving her alone with her gifts.
She opened the card, "I know it has only been a couple of days, but I have missed you Livvie. Not sure how we use to do this. We have dinner tonight at seven. I saw this dress, and thought you would look perfect in it. I understand if you want to wear something else."
Olivia pulled the dress out and smiled. Oh she was more than happy to wear this dress for her man. What she didn't understand is how he picked these wonderful dresses for her, but horrible ties for himself. She smiled knowing that at this point it was on purpose, and she wouldn't complain.
Olivia was ready at seven when her agent told her that her car was ready. She truly felt like a million bucks.
She had her hair styled up. She stepped into the Pamella Roland striped illusion allover sequined dress. Once she stepped into her Christian Louboutin nude peep toe heels she knew tonight would be special just because she was here with the love of her life.
The car took her to a helipad. Instead of an agent opening the door for her it was Fitz. She practically jumped in his arms.
He held her, "So you missed me to?"
"Of course I did."
He put her down and saw she was wearing the dress he picked, "You looked beautiful baby."
"Thank you. I thought we were headed to dinner."
"We are after I fulfill a dream of yours."
She smiled and nodded.
"Livvie, I don't take it lightly the sacrifices that you are making to be with me in the open. I love you baby, and I want you to look back on this time and see some good with us being together."
"I do Fitz."
"Good, well that helicopter is about to land so it came take you on a tour of London."
Olivia began to jump up and down like a kid. He had to admit that other than doing things for his kids, nothing made him happy as he was at this moment. He had hired a photographer to capture the entire evening.
The helicopter landed and picked them up. To make this possible it was an agent that was giving the tour along with another agent beside him.
Olivia got to see the best of London like she dreamed in the air. Seeing the Tower Bridge, River Thames, House of Parliament, and Buckingham Palace was a treat. They were now at the London Eye.
Fitz turned to Olivia, "I know that Cyrus ruined the whole warm and fuzzy feeling you were supposed to feel when you realize I was about to propose. Even though I tried to recreate it he had ruined it to a degree. Deep down you are a hopeless romantic. You wanted that proposal you could gush to Abby & Quinn about. I want to give you that. I love you Livvie. I want forever with you. We can do this right, and how we wanted. We can continue to build and grow, and have the wedding we want. Even if you still don't want any vows. I was hoping to see you at the very least in a real wedding gown, but I don't care as long as we are together. So Livvie will you do me the honor of marrying me?
Olivia had tears in her eyes as she looked at the ring. It was not the same ring that he originally proposed to her with. This was a ring that she had only described to Abby. If she could design her own engagement ring it would be different like her. She didn't want a regular diamond. Fitz had selected a two carat diamond halo engagement ring. The center was a one carat champagne diamond.
She looked up and Fitz and unlike the last time happily nodded her head up and down, "Yes of course I will marry you!"
Fitz didn't realize he had been hold his breath in until she said yes. He slid the ring on, and the couple shared a passionate kiss as they landed.
They were at London Eye. She looked at him, "We are having dinner at London Eye"
"Absolutely I want this story to be all about you from beginning to end. Just like everything I say to you is important everything you say to me is also important. I know it has taken me awhile to do some of these things with you, but we will do them. Tonight you get to cross off romantic proposal, touring London on a helicopter, enjoying dinner in your own capsule at London Eye."
"Don't forget snagging the man of my dreams."
"Ditto."
They made it to their capsule where yet another surprise waited. Fitz prayed that this time she would accept the proposal, and this time they would celebrate. In the capsule was Cyrus, Marcus, Quinn, Huck, Abby, Marta, Teddy, and Karen. She could tell they were nervous hoping they were celebrating so she held up her hand to confirm.
Everyone was so happy for the couple, and that warmed their hearts especially Olivia. This is how she wanted to feel when they got engaged.
They all sat down and the capsule went around for 30 minutes, and they got to experience a 4D cinema experience. Everyone enjoyed it, but Teddy was beside himself. He was in Olivia's lap talking to her and Karen. Everyone noticed how happy and content Olivia & the kids seemed.
They stopped and their servers came on. The adults were drinking Emin Punch and the kids were drinking Yuzu Lemonade.
Olivia's favorite food was Italian so tonight they would be enjoying an Italian meal. They were starting with veal meatballs, fried soft shell crab, and burrata cheese tomato & basil.
They were going around again. Teddy looked at Olivia, "Libby, Karen said that you are going to be our mommy when you marry daddy."
Olivia was caught off guard. She looked at Fitz & Karen, and realized this time he talked to the kids before proposing. He wanted to make sure it was right this time.
Olivia looked at Teddy & Karen, "Is that what you guys want?"
"You kind of already are. In some ways you have been."
"Does it bother you Kare? You can tell me."
"I know, but I told dad and I am telling you I am happy for you both. It's a long time coming. Teddy needs stability."
Olivia grabbed their hands, "I'm really sorry for turning your world upside down, but I promise that I love your dad. I love all of him, and that includes the two of you. I will be whatever you need me to be. I love you both so much."
Everyone watched the scene. The ladies didn't try to stop their tears like the guys other than Fitz. He had apologized to the kids also. Teddy didn't understand it like Karen, but it meant everything to him to see Olivia invested in the kids. He could tell her apologizing to Karen again, and promising to be there for her meant more than she cared to admit.
The truth was Karen nor Fitz knew what Mellie they would get in the future. For Fitz he no longer cared as much now they were divorced, but it was clear to him that Karen was also getting on that boat. Olivia was her life vest. Olivia knew it, and she was okay with that role. For Teddy she knew more than likely she would be more of a mom than stepmom, and if that was the case she was okay with that.
After a while they came to a stop where they enjoyed their next course of endive salad with gorgonzola, pear, walnuts, and honey. Next they enjoyed stuffed tortelli with ricotta, toasted pine nuts served with cured duck & basil sauce.
After they finished up they headed around again. Olivia made it over to Abby & Quinn who were also hanging out with Marta. She hugged them and thanked them for coming.
Quinn laughed, "Who turns down a free trip to London from the President?"
Olivia laughed
Abby nodded, "Quinn is right. Besides I had a feeling this time it was going to be very easy for you to say yes."
She looked at her best friend, "Thank you for helping him, and how did he find out about the ring?"
"He asked me to tell him some things I should know you really want that you have only shared with me. Three hours later we had a plan. He wants this Liv."
"I know and so do I. I don't know if I want to get married before we leave the White House, but regardless I want you by my side."
"You don't have to ask."
"So Sunday."
"Let's just say I heard the Queen his hoping to meet the President's fiancée. She helped him secure the people needed to make tonight possible."
Olivia could only shake her head. She was headed back over to her fiancée after talking to Marcus & Huck a moment when Cyrus stopped her.
She was about to say something when he stopped her, "I'm sorry for hurting you. I know you need some time, but maybe we can do lunch sometimes."
Olivia hugged Cyrus, "I look forward to it."
When they made it back they enjoyed Tiramisu to end the night. The photographer had captured the night for the couple.
Fitz had made sure that his schedule was clear so he could spend time with Olivia and the kids. It was their first time together as a family, and they were all happy.
Teddy loved his big sister so anytime she was home he was happy. Olivia didn't realize how she content she would be right now. It felt right. She was happy to know she wasn't a complete idiot. When Fitz proposed she didn't think twice.
It was the night of the dinner with the Queen. Olivia had decided on the Oscar de la Renta strapless sweetheart floral applique gown. It was paired with a purple diamond and gold necklace and earrings. She felt like a Queen.
Fitz came in the room with a man, "Honey this is the manager of the hotel. He is going to lock up your engagement ring while we are dinner."
She looked at him, "I thought the Queen helped you. She did and she agreed to stay quiet until we announced."
She thanked the manager, but told him she wouldn't be taking the ring off. The manager quickly left not sure what was about to happen.
Olivia looked at Fitz, "I am not ashamed nor do I want to hide anymore. I appreciate your willingness to do this for me, but I want the world to know I am in love with an incredible man."
"Ditto baby. Once you wave it will be known around the world."
Olivia grinned, "Then I think it is time for me to wave."
A/N- Don't get me wrong I love this Fitz who handles things, but I wanted to write them dealing with the fallout. I added my own twists and turns. Like the show I am using some past seasons in my writing.
As I mentioned in my earlier update I don't plan on joining back in to watch Scandal. I have one shots planned to rewrite the finale with Thanksgiving included, Christmas, and New Year's will be separate one shots. Any other one shots from season five will come if I hear about any further Olitz goodness. Other than that it will be random one shots.
Check out my Twitter account for all three dresses and engagement ring kimberl17711667