A/N-I know that we all just got finished celebrating Kerry's birthday. Well in honor of my birthday which is today I give my readers a gift. I hope that you enjoy each of these updates. Sorry if I missed anything. Last but not least remember these characters belong to Kerry.
The dinner the couple had with the Queen changed Olivia in ways neither had expected especially Fitz. She was in her element at the dinner. I think for Olivia it was seeing the Queen. This was an intelligent woman who has ruled for many years. People reported to her, look up to her, and respect her.
During dinner Olivia spent quite a bit of time talking to the Princess Kate, and that talk would forever change her. She reminded Olivia that everyone has a title. Some are more important than others. Some even share the same title, but the difference is the individual. Some women like to be docile, and allow their man to rule while they sit back and do as told.
Fitz was nervous. He didn't expect Olivia to change overnight. It was humanly impossible he thought, but he was hoping that she could see what true love really felt like. He was hoping that the children showing her how much they wanted her in their life would make the transition a little easier once they made it back to the United States.
The couple was enjoying desert, and she could tell Fitz knew emotionally something in her changed during the dinner. She could recall the exact moment that the media caught the ring, and the questions began. Neither addressed the questions so she knew he was scared that they had scared her off.
Honestly it was the opposite. It was something about being pictured with the President who was now her fiancée that empowered her. It is one thing to be a mistress and then a girlfriend, but for the world to see that he meant it when he said she was the love of his life was empowering both physically and emotionally.
Time and time again he said she was the one. He had kept every promise he made behind closed doors. She was now ready to stand in her truth, and for the first time in her life she was going to allow herself to be happy.
She turned and looked at her fiancée. God how she loved to say and think that, "Stop worrying. I'm giving my running shoes to Teddy."
Fitz couldn't help but laugh
Olivia smiled, "Seriously, I'm yours. I'm your fiancée."
"That you are Livvie, and I love my fiancée!"
"Your fiancée loves you too!"
The rest of dinner was great. Fitz felt like Olivia was coming into her own, and wondered what this meant for their future. He meant it when he said he would wait until they were out of office until they were married, but he secretly hoped they created some history and she married him before he left office.
For the first time they boarded Air Force One as an official couple with the kids beside them, and as he held her hand he was surprised by how relaxed she was.
The couple had just finished a meal with the kids. Olivia was about to put Teddy down for a nap when Karen asked to talk to them so Olivia sat back down.
Karen was nervous.
Fitz grabbed her hand, "What's wrong sweetie?"
"Nothing really dad other than I am miserable at boarding school."
"Why haven't you said something to me before now?"
"You want me to be honest?"
"I do…"
"I didn't want to live in the same home as mother. She is so miserable herself, and the only way she is happy is that everyone around her is just has unhappy as she is. Jerry being gone is hard enough, but I can't do it alone."
Olivia asked the million-dollar question, "Your mother is still around Kare. You can't avoid her so why come back?"
"You…"
"Me?"
"Liv, it wasn't easy to accept at first that my dad had an affair. Not because it was with you or any woman to be honest. It was because I feared if my dad was with someone that I nor Teddy would fit in. When you revealed that you were his mistress I knew that there was only one person happy with that announcement, and that person was dad. I could tell that you were still conflicted. I just knew we had no space in his life. Imagine my surprise I seem to have more. That my dad calls me more. That for the first time I saw my dad alive and happy. Had I known all he needed was to be with you. I would have outed you myself. Sorry Liv!"
Both Fitz & Olivia were overwhelmed with her response. For the first time Olivia was able to see that she wasn't being selfish when she loved Fitz. The media might have portrayed it that way, but the truth is the country got a better President. Olivia got to live for the first time, and the kids were happy and healthy.
Fitz looked at his daughter, "So you want to go to school in D.C. for the last two years?"
"I do!"
"Do you 50/50 between your mother and I?"
"No, I would prefer one weekend a month. Our choice, and that we absolutely will not be paraded around at dinners and functions. If she wants to spend time with us it is off camera."
Olivia readily agreed to Karen's request which shocked Fitz. Not because he was opposed to it, but because he knew that meant sitting down with Mellie, and going head to head. However, he wasn't going to question it. He had a feeling she was ready, and he was ready to make it happen so they could all move on.
Karen stood up and turned around. It was obvious that something else was still on her mind.
Olivia looked at her, "You can tell us anything?"
Karen nodded, "You made mistakes Liv, and you are human. I know that you agreeing to go to bat for me means a confrontation with my mom. You never give yourself enough credit, and I know dad wishes you could see your worth. I do too. Not once have you ever forced yourself on me. You don't have an agenda, and loving dad or even us is not wrong. The world sees a President. I see my dad, and you see the man you are in love with. Teddy and I feel your love. Take some and give it to yourself."
Karen took Teddy and left the couple alone. As soon as the door closed she broke down. Karen's words hit her soul, and Fitz could see it in her eyes. He picked her up and took her to their room. He knew that Olivia wasn't use to unconditional love, and it was one thing to come from him but entirely another to have it from the kids. Her mind had accepted they would hate her, and for that to never happen baffled her to a degree.
He let her calm down some, "It is partially my fault that you struggle with unconditional love."
She looked up at him.
"I love you unconditionally you know that now Livvie, but at times I put conditions on our love. Making you move into the White House, the forced proposal, making you feel guilty about Jake when I was married…."
"Fitz stop..."
"No Livvie it is true, and while I am glad that you accepted my proposal I realize that while I want you to love you. I haven't always made that easy. I want to change that. Despite your dad being out there we can come to an agreement to move you back home."
Olivia turned around and climbed in her lap. "No"
"I don't give a damn about the optics."
"I know, but you see that is the unconditional love that Karen is talking about. I am walking out of this plane, and going home with my fiancée. We are going to schedule a meeting with Mellie, and I am going to meet with her along with Abby. We are a team."
"I love you so much Livvie. You and the kids are my world. We didn't get it right in the past, and I know you were scared the public could ruin us. In some ways you were right, but I believe in us. I believe that from now on. We can get it right. I want to get it right. We just have to communicate. We no longer live on stolen moments. This is the beginning of our forever."
Olivia looked Fitz in the eyes, "You are right, and we will get it right because we have the children to think about. It is more than us, and I think we owe it to them to try."
He flipped Olivia over so now he was under her. He pushed her panties aside and slid into her. She threw her head aside. She wasn't expecting his entrance, but she wouldn't deny him either.
He leaned down and kissed her. God how this man loved her, and she could honestly admit she felt the same way. "I agree Livvie. Now let me show you I am all in."
She could only nod.
Fitz truly made love to her. Mind, body, and soul that man showed her that she was his everything. In return she made sure that he knew she felt the same way.
When they landed the media hounded them. No questions were answered.
The next morning Olivia's team met her at the White House. They were surprised to find her in the West Wing. First ladies are usually in the East Wing. They expected things to change after Olivia accepted Fitz's proposal. They didn't want to discuss it that night. She deserved to enjoy her moment.
They were in shock when they were escorted into an office where at least a dozen workers were transforming the space into Olivia's office. The four television set up was even going up.
Olivia turns around and sees their shock.
Huck ask, "Your idea or the President's idea?"
Olivia grinned, "All my hubby to be!"
They smiled. Enjoying how happy she was.
Huck nodded, "You are happy. That all that matters. We will find work."
"Well that is why I called you."
The three confused
"Fitz & I talked on the way back. We want to switch my detail up. We want you and Quinn to be my lead agents. Officially I am temporarily closing up shop. Once his terms end we will officially open back up. We are going to stick around for a little, and make Vermont our vacation home. Eventually I will turn the day to day over to you guys when I move to Vermont. And yes Abby will be coming back to us. Unofficially we are going to be Fitz's eyes and ears. Also he trusts you to keep me safe when I travel."
The two were clearly excited about their new role, and the both readily agreed. They were taken away to get started getting clearance. Fitz was cutting most of the red tape to ensure they were given the roles they wanted for them immediately.
That left Marcus. She turned to him, "I want you to be my chief of staff. Clearly you know how to protect my image, and I am going to continue to need that. Like Huck and Quinn, you will be an additional set of eyes and ears. Fitz wants you to work closely with Abby. You two will get along, and you know what we need. I trust you, and I trust Abby. Don't feel like you need to come to me with every little decision. We have already talked with Abby before you guys arrived."
"What about Cyrus?"
"He keeps his role. We won't leave him out, but we will do what he often does to us. We will leave out certain details when and if the time comes."
Marcus was just as ecstatic about his new role. Olivia had already cleared the red tape, because she needed him ready to work now.
She handed him his package which showed his new salary along with his first assignment. When he read it he looked up. It was a two-part assignment.
He nodded, "Consider it handled."
"I'm not worried. You helped to get me through my worst. "
"You did it for me first."
Marcus continued, "Yeah, but Olivia I feel like we are friends now."
"Because we are Marcus. Abby has blocked out most of the day for the two of you to work together."
He nodded. Olivia made it over to Fitz's personal office that was beside the Oval to work. Her office would not be ready for a couple of days. They needed time to allow the paint to dry, and the furniture to arrive.
Olivia was shocked when the night they return from England Fitz showed her the plan. He had it done up the day she confessed that she was indeed the mistress.
It was similar to her office, but upgraded. Her sitting area was a room of its own, and the space was twice the size as her. She also noted that there was an area for Teddy to play or even a toddler.
She smiled and told him she loved every part of it, and saw no need for any changes to be made. That was all he needed to know.
Marcus emailed her and confirmed that he scheduled a meeting with Mellie. The meeting was personal so Mellie was informed she couldn't disclose the meeting. If she did she was informed she would be arrested.
She knew not to test Fitz after the phone call they had. It wasn't like she was surprised that he proposed to Olivia. What she was surprised about was that Olivia had accepted, and allowed the world to find out. Mellie knew that her days of running was over. That could only bode bad things for her.
Olivia didn't feel great, but she promised to meet with Fitz.
When she walked in the office he could tell something was off.
"What's wrong baby?"
"Not sure. I think it is just the traveling. My body is tired, but I called the doctor. I don't want to take a chance and get the kids sick especially Teddy. His immune system is still building."
Fitz could only smile. He looked at her, "You really are a good mom Livvie."
"I have to admit I am better than I expected, and I enjoy it more than I expected. I like this kind of pressure."
"Which is?"
"Children dependent upon you."
"I agree."
Fitz pulled her to the coach, "I won't take up much of your time. We received a call from Jake. He has found and captured your father. They are waiting on my command."
Olivia looked up at him confused.
"I thought you were going to have them killed."
"Yes, the old Fitz was, but that man is gone. I am engaged to marry a wonderful woman one day, and this needs to be our decision. Mostly your decision, because he is your dad. You deserve the proper closure."
She nodded and looked down. She was in thought for several minutes. She took the time to really think it over.
"I want to get married."
Fitz gasped, "What?"
"I want to get married. Not at the White House, but in the United States or a territory of course. I want to leave office as a married woman. The real First Lady will walk out with you."
Fitz was almost in tears, "Livvie, that is everything that I have ever wanted baby. We can discuss it over the holidays."
"I'd like that."
She stood up, "I trust you baby to make the right call. He is my dad, and part of me still clings to something I will never have. One side of me knows that. The other side doesn't. What I know is that I can't mess us up. We won't survive it, and now the kids are involved."
She finally turned and looked him in the eye, "When you see him make a decision as the head of our household not the President. While he is a matter of national security we know this is personal. I know you are conflicted as well so take some time on the drive to figure it out. I don't need a good-bye. We never really said hello."
"Okay Livvie. I can handle it. Do you want me to go with you to the doctor?"
"No baby it is not that serious. We will catch each other up later tonight. I'll be waiting for you in OUR Navy t-shirt."
He kissed her. She headed to the door and stopped herself.
"Fitz…."
"Yes Livvie…"
"Decide on the both of them. It is time to leave the past in the past."
"I will."
Olivia made it to the doctor while Fitz headed to see Rowan.
When Fitz walked into the room he wasn't surprised to see the same cocky Rowan that he had seen before.
He didn't say anything at first. He pulled out his phone. He had a message from Olivia. He was responding to her.
Rowan said, "What do you think you are doing? Do you think that you have won? Do you think that you have the upper hand? What are you plans?"
"Are you doing this for Olivia?"
Still nothing
"You know I am Olivia's father."
"I am her father. I am Jake's father. I am a father to many ungrateful sons. Many ungrateful children."
"There is no gratitude in parenting. You should know that. I don't know why we do it."
He looked up at Fitz, "But you know exactly what I am talking about."
"What are their names? Yes, you have Karen and Teddy. Oh and there was Jerry."
Fitz looked up for a moment, but still said nothing.
"Have you seen your children recently? Spend any time with them."
Fitz picked up on the fact that he was running underground. He had not kept up with the news. He still didn't say a word.
"Do you think they miss you?"
"Do you think they are happy knowing you were the cause of them losing their brother? I know your ex-wife was all too happy to tell your daughter"
Still no response from Fitz.
"Do you think that the kids want a piece of a father?"
Fitz looked up for a moment, "Stop talking about my family!"
Rowan continued, "The two of them grew up thinking that you didn't love them. That you loved being a politician more than you loved them. That they were pawns in a game."
Fitz finally looked up and stood in front of him.
"Stop talking about my family."
"Some would say the kids are better off without you. Jerry is better off dead. Karen is better off at the boarding school with her boyfriend's having sex for love"
Fitz grabbed him by the throat which excited Rowan. He could tell that Fitz was pissed, and could easily choke him to death. He knew that he loved his kids, and it was the play he needed to set him off.
Rowan was cheering him on, and then it dawned on him that is what he wanted. He was taking the coward's way out, and hoping it would wedge him and Olivia apart so he slowly began to let go.
He finally pulled away and smiled. Rowan was confused. Why did he stop?
He looked him in the eyes, "Did you have a television in prison?"
"I am curious if you saw the things they were saying about your daughter. About your child. She was a whore, a home wrecker, a slut who repeatedly spread her legs to get to the top. I know it is bullshit, but I couldn't imagine how I would feel if that was Karen they were talking about. It would hurt especially if she was all I had."
He looked down and then looked at him again, "See that is the thing though she is not yours anymore. She is mine's now. She chose me. The President over Command. Do you know that she loves me? That she now repeatedly tells me. Before I use to wonder if she really loved me, or if she just hated you so much she would use me to get back at you just to spite you."
He could see Rowan getting emotional.
"Wait a minute. Would it be better if she chose Jake?"
Both Rowan and Jake looked up at him.
"Which white boy do you approve being inside your daughter?"
Rowan was now crying.
"You took my family from me. You took my son from me, and I almost lost Olivia because of you. My daughter was lost. She couldn't understand how someone could be so evil. See the thing is though Karen is great. She is home, and she is going to stay home. Teddy is thriving with the care that Olivia provids, and Olivia well she accepted my proposal. The world knows that I put a ring on it."
"See I know that I failed as a father. I should have been there more than I was. I should have put my foot down when it came to Mellie. I won't be able to make my amends on earth with Jerry, but with my other two I will. Any children that Olivia & I have together will never question my love for them. You on the other hand are a miserable excuse for a father. The sad part is that you know it, and she knows it. The truth of the matter is that you are no one's father."
He got close to him, "I know what you want. I know you expect for me to kill you or order someone to kill you. my fiancée told me to do whatever I think is right. That we were closing this chapter in our lives. So that is why you are going to Guantanamo Bay. I think you have some secrets that we need, and once we are done there are several countries that have contacted me that have requested time with you."
He pulled back and laughed. Rowan was no longing smiling especially when the guards walked in. He knew Fitz was for real, and that this was checkmate. Fitz had won. He told him that he would protect Olivia at all cost. He just never took him seriously.
As he was being escorted out Fitz called his name. he turned around, "By the way I promise this white boy will take really good care of your daughter."
He nodded and they took him away.
Once he was gone he turned to look at Jake.
"I am not in debt to you for capturing Rowan. You had your own reasons, and I respect that."
He handed him a folder. It was a personal check for several millions, and also a choice of jobs outside of the country with private firms.
Jake looked up
Fitz said, "I don't care if you take any of the jobs, but you will leave D.C. by the end of the week. Before you ask it is a demand, and it is a threat that if you don't leave your life is in danger. Olivia is mine, and I am hers. She is mine because she chose me of her own free will. There is video that will go up soon to prove it. She is no longer of your concern. She gave me rein to do as I please. I love her so I would never just kill you for my peace of mind, but I will happily kill you if you try to interfere with our family now. Are we clear?"
"Crystal..."
"Good, because Jake I am not repeating myself. Huck & Quinn will take care of you. They are part of Olivia's detail. I need people who I know will protect her, and know who our enemies are. You are officially an enemy."
Fitz walked out leaving Jake in shock. He knew that Fitz, and he wouldn't dare cross him. It was over. It was time for him to move on.
Fitz made it back to the Residence. Olivia had sent him a text letting him know when she made it home. The doctor was able to figure out why she was sick. She had her medicine, and she was going to lay down.
He had let her know that he would be home as quickly as possible. She told him she was fine. Karen & Teddy were taking good care of her.
He could only smile which was why he didn't let Rowan get completely under his skin. He knew what he had now, and he wasn't going to get short sited.
When he walked in their room she was knocked out. He knew when she was under the weather. It was the only time she slept like a log.
He took a nice long shower, and the drama washed away. He knew that he made the right choices when it came to Jake and Rowan. He didn't want to lie to Olivia, and he wanted to be comfortable in the decision he made. It was about the two of them.
He made it to the bed. He turned on his tablet. He always checked his emails one final time before bed.
He opened up an email. It was from Olivia. When he got to the end he gasped. He was in shock. Of all the things to happen this was not something he was expecting.
He turned to find her staring at him.
"I didn't do it on purpose."
"How far along?"
"Six weeks"
"Thought you were on birth control."
"I forgot that antibiotics makes the pill ineffective, and you know we don't use condoms."
"Do you want it?"
In the past that would have been a valid question. It was still a valid question. He knew her, and knew that she had probably freaked out."
"I want our baby Fitz. I can't say that I didn't freak a little, but not in a bad way. I am never walking away from us again. I have almost ruined us so many times, and I can't be without you Fitz. I can't be without Karen or Teddy. Now I can't be without this baby. You are my family, and these kids are ours."
He pulled her into his lap, "I know you didn't do this on purpose, but I am glad that it happened. I am even more grateful now for the decision I made."
"You didn't kill my dad."
"No, I just couldn't Liv. It would have been selfish. I sent him away. He will answer for his crimes. Just not in a court room."
"And Jake. I paid him for finding Rowan. It was the right thing to do, but I told him to leave the country. If Huck or I get a whiff of him then he has problems. Livvie, we both made mistakes, but this is our time. I can't let him…"
"Stop. I'm proud of you. Instead of you being macho man, you were my Fitz. The man who made the right call for the greater good. I am so proud of you."
"I'm proud of both of us. No running, no berating each other, no theatrics. We are the couple I knew we could be."
"I agree which is why I had Marcus set up our first formal interview. I wanted them to see the Fitz I see. So I decided to invite them into our homes. Here and in our private residence. Different segments. Show the world we are no fluke."
Fitz hugged her tightly and she held onto him knowing how happy she made him. This is all he ever wanted. For her to be his First Lady. To be his side. Someone he could talk to after a stressful day. She vowed to always be there for him until death do them part.
She pulled back, "I am meeting with Mellie in the morning."
"Do you need me there?"
"No, I need to establish some boundaries with Mellie. I allowed her to berate me for years because I was sleeping with her husband. I told myself that I deserved to be punish. Those days are over. Also I have to protect the kids. They have been pawned enough. Karen mentally and emotionally can't take much more."
Fitz smiled. This is the same woman time and time again that said she wouldn't be a good mother, but was always quick to protect the kids.
He leaned in and kissed her. "I know you will handle it."
"I love you."
"Love you more."
"Make love to me."
"Gladly"
The couple spent the evening talking and making love. Neither had never been happier.
Fitz worshipped her body from head to toe. When he got to her stomach he kissed it.
"I know they say you can't hear, but I don't believe that. I talked to my babies."
He got choked up.
Olivia caressed his face, "Baby what's wrong?"
"I use to have to wait till Mellie was sleep to talk to the babies. She slept like a rock when she was pregnant so she didn't stir. If she was awake she wouldn't allow it. Saying that it was dumb."
Olivia made him look at her, "You can talk to our baby whenever you like. I will never take that from you. I want you around for all of it."
"So do I Livvie."
She pulled him up. "I need to be one with you."
He nodded and slowly slid into her. Tonight he just wanted to take his time, and relish in the fact that they were engaged, expecting, and that they were finally on the same page.
It was important that he took care of his fiancée tonight. He wanted her to know he was all in, and that she would never regret choosing him.
Each stroke took Olivia to a place that she has never been even with Fitz. He had also been saving a little of himself, and now that he knew she was all in so was he. He had saved a tiny bit of his heart. Not as much as she had, but just enough and now she had all of him. It thrilled and excited her, and she met him thrust for thrust showing she was ready to face whatever as long as she had him by her side.
Both of knew they were about ready to blow, but tonight wasn't a competition. It was a partnership that they wanted to succeed in.
They linked fingers, and rode out the wave together.
He got up to get them cleaned up. He put his Navy t-shirt on her, and grabbed a pair of pajama pants. Teddy sometimes had nightmares, and sometimes he wanted to be a mama's boy as Fitz would say. Mellie didn't cuddle with Teddy so he knew that his son loved that Olivia welcomed him in her personal space. He pretended to be jealous, but he wasn't at all. He was happy that his son had a mom without restrictions.
The next morning the couple got dressed, ate breakfast with the kids before starting their day.
Olivia wasn't sure what calls Fitz made, but when she walked out to meet Mellie Quinn & Huck were at her side as her agents. Abby was also by her side. It was for moral support, and to collaborate the conversation that was going to take place.
When Mellie opened the door you could tell she was shocked to see Huck & Quinn by her side as her agents. People assumed that they didn't know how to clean up especially Huck. It worked to their advantage.
They followed Mellie to her office.
Huck looked at the former First Lady, "We are honoring Olivia's request to leave the room. Don't make me regret that decision. Are we clear?"
Mellie nodded as they made themselves comfortable.
Olivia slid the folder over to Mellie who opened and read the contents. She looked up at Olivia, "Absolutely not."
"Your loss because if you don't sign those papers I am going to make it my mission to ruin you, and I will put all of my time and efforts into that job."
"You act as if I don't have anything on the two of you."
"No one said you didn't I am just saying that what I have is more. What I am saying is that Fitz nor I have any political ambitions, but you do."
"You rigged an election."
"Semantics, my fiancée on his own may have fired my team behind my back to cover me should you try to come after me. I really am impressed. He is a true gladiator. When he called you a whore I use to tell him that it was uncalled for; until I learned you slept with Hollis. You really do sleep your way to the top.
"And you don't"
"No, Mellie I don't!"
"The media doesn't feel that way."
"I get it. White people like you don't believe black women have brains. While you are the true whore many will sympathize with you. You were wronged, but that sympathy will go away when they learned you killed 12 innocent men and women."
'And you will get mutilated when I leak Defiance."
"Go ahead, but Fitz planned for that when he filed for divorce from you. Had we not gotten back together he made sure that when people went looking it was only you, Hollis, and his goons. Most people when they have an affair upgrade. Whether it is for money, looks, power, or a good lay in bed. You, well I have no words."
"You guys will never get away with it."
"Don't play dumb. You might like to think you hold all the power, but you know that is the far from the truth."
Mellie sat back in her seat deflated. She knew Olivia was right. She put all these cards on the table for such a time as now, and none of them worked out. Mainly because she never prepared for Olivia to out their affair. You can't blackmail anyone who has told the truth.
'Did he ever tell you how Teddy was conceived?"
Olivia shook her head.
"The old turkey baster method. He wouldn't touch me. He kept telling me we would use my lie in Georgia."
Olivia gasped, "Miscarriage"
"Yes we would tell the public I conceived, and in a couple of months we would release that I lost the baby. I would have my tubes tide. The next baby he wanted was with you, and you only. He wanted a baby made out of love. I was okay with it at first, but then I knew it would only make you two close again so I spiked his drink."
"I slid a condom on, because something told me even in his drunken state it wouldn't work. I was right. I don't feel like you. I don't touch like you. I don't love him. I used my hand to get him off. I humiliated him, and for the first time in a while I was sorry. I went along with my plan. It worked. He tested Teddy to be sure. He never questioned me for the details. From the moment he held Teddy he loved him. It couldn't be me."
"We know."
"Maybe, but you don't know how much Fitz loves you. He never fought for me."
"You never fought for him, and don't confuse you standing by his side when times got tough. That wasn't for him, but for you."
"Fine I will sign the paper that dissolves the custody arrangement. All I ask is to talk to the kids whenever, and that whenever they want to see me they can. I understand appearances are not allowed until they turn 18 when they can decide on their own. I also agree to go back to my maiden name Farmer. Was this your idea?"
"Nope, he handed me the folder this morning?
They both knew why. No more words were needed. Mellie had spent so much time and money to keep Fitz & Olivia apart. Not because she loved her husband, but she wanted to keep the power. She had lost it. She had to hold on to what she had so she signed the papers. She really didn't see a need to fight. She could win, but the cost would be too much.
After signing the papers Olivia headed back to the White House. When she walked into the Oval she was surprised to see Karen there.
Karen ran over and hugged her. She didn't know about the baby. They decided to keep it to themselves for a little while.
Olivia could feel the tension in her body. "What's wrong honey?"
"I'm fine Liv. I was showing dad some schools, and I was asking if he heard from you."
"I'm fine and it is official. You are staying here, and there is no longer a custody arrangement. I agreed that she could call to talk to you both whenever."
Karen held onto her tightly as the tears fell, and Olivia just held her. Fitz was emotional as well. He was happy to have his daughter back home especially now that he was in a relationship with Olivia. He wasn't trying to push Mellie away like she wasn't their mom, but he had to have a plan. Deep down he knew that Mellie was smart. If she worked hard being a Senator was going to take her places, but he knew that eventually meant the kids wouldn't be of any use to her.
Olivia whispered in her hair, "I know that I am not your mom, and I never want to replace her. I promise that I will always do my best to be there for you. I won't always get it right, but I will try."
Karen knew that Olivia's fast and hard rule was that she didn't make promises often. So she knew that if Olivia was promising her then she was serious.
"Thank you."
Karen left the couple alone.
Fitz held her. She cried in his arms. She knew her hormones were all over the place. The doctor explained it to her earlier that morning. Fitz got them to confirm the test, but the other part was just all the changes she had been through. She wasn't sad at all.
Fitz kissed her hair, "I know that you have made a lot of sacrifices for me, and I can't thank you enough. I am sorry for all the pain I have caused you, but I promise you that our days will be happier than sad from here on out. I promise to love you completely, and I promise that the pain you went through was worth it."
Olivia looked up, "You made as many as I did if not more. I make those same promises to you. I love you so much Fitz."
"I love you to Livvie."
Marcus handled the couple with grace and pose. He worked well with Cyrus, but didn't allow Cyrus to walk all over him.
Cyrus wanted to kick himself in the butt. He realized how much happier Fitz was, and it made him a better President. He no longer had to worry about sneaking around so Cyrus's job became easier.
At first he struggled because Olivia was part of the inner circle, but once he understood that was not going to change he accepted it. The three of them together were dynamite.
Karen was happy to be back at home. Teddy loved having her there, and they bonded. Karen wanted to make Jerry proud, and be a good big sister.
Olivia hired a tutor who worked with Teddy every day for a couple of hours. Most afternoons he was either in Fitz's or Olivia's office. They tried to coordinate their schedule so he could be with one of them. They only kept Marta on as nanny. When they both had to be out he was with Marta.
The country now loved Olivia. Actually the world loved Olivia. She was grace personified. To them she was smart. She had the perfect balance.
Marcus did an excellent job making sure that the country saw the real Olivia, and not the mistress that wrecked a marriage.
The couple did a one-hour interview that was ratings gold, and it solidified the couple. The country was now able to see why the couple risked so much to be together.
The pregnancy remained hidden. Fitz didn't want Olivia under any pressure for as long as possible. They told their team and Karen. Olivia didn't expect them to be so happy for her especially Karen.
Karen told her Jerry would want her to move on and be happy. A baby was a good thing especially one made out of love.
Fitz tried to talk to her. She stopped him. "Dad, Jerry & I knew. All that matters is that you still loved us. For a while you closed yourself off, and you were distant but that time pales in comparison to the times you were there. Whenever I needed you to be there for me you were, and that is all that matters. No more looking back."
Fitz nodded, "No more looking back."
For Thanksgiving he pardoned the turkey with the kids by his side. It was something different that the country enjoyed. Teddy was so excited, and his carefree attitude made the event even more enjoyable.
They spent Thanksgiving together at their home in D.C. with their extended family with them. Ella was getting big like Teddy, and they were thick as thieves.
They would hear from Mellie, but it wasn't consistent. As expected she was working hard, and it paid off. Fitz & Olivia never said anything ill about her. Olivia had complimented her several times.
For Christmas they were taking the kids to Vermont for the first time. They had done all of the White House activities together.
The kids loved Vermont. It reminded them a little of the ranch in Santa Barbara. It wasn't as big, but it huge.
Mellie was enjoying her glory due to the filibuster. She spent two days with the kids before she was ready to call in a nanny. Teddy hated when he didn't have his night routine, and they called Fitz. Huck had the kids back home by dinner time.
It was a special Christmas. The biggest gift for the kids was the stable that Olivia had built. She knew how to ride, but not like Fitz & the kids.
When Teddy saw his horse he grinned, "Livvie, can I name him?"
Olivia nodded, "You can."
"Well Karen told me that my big brother loved horses; so I was wondering if I could name him Jerry?"
Olivia watched the emotions that overcame Karen & Fitz. Teddy thought they didn't like the name.
Fitz went over to him, "We love the name, and I think that it is an excellent way to pay homage to your brother."
Karen hugged her brother, "Good name."
Olivia came around. "Teddy, how do feel about being a big brother?"
Teddy grinned, "I think it is cool, but Livia I don't want my mom to have another baby. That means we have to go back home with her."
Fitz froze at his response. He never thought Teddy really understood what was going on. Clearly he was wrong.
He pulled him into his lap, "What if it was Livia?"
"Then I would be really happy. When you marry Livia she becomes my mom right?"
Olivia grabbed his hand, "You already have a mom buddy."
"When we were at her house I couldn't sleep, because she wouldn't read with me very long. I went to her room. She wasn't in there so I headed to her office. She was telling the lady on the phone I was a science project. She kind of wishes the experiment failed."
Teddy was close to tears, and Olivia could tell she had three upset Grants on her hand.
Olivia opened her arms and Teddy ran into them, "I don't know what your mom meant, and I am sorry about what she said. Daddy & I are having a baby. We need to keep it a secret for a little while, but I want you and your sister to know that I love you both to the moon and back. Your daddy & I have waited a long time to have a baby of our own. However, it doesn't change the love we have for you two. We need you both. I need you both to teach me how to be a mom."
Karen came over to her, "You are already our mom Liv."
During dinner the couple realized that either Huck or Quinn or both visited Mellie. They had ignored her call, and concentrated on the kids.
The outside of the house was decorated, but they decided they wanted to do the inside to get a piece of normal.
After getting Teddy to bed Fitz was now ready to return Mellie's call.
Olivia headed to the bedroom. Fitz was surprised. She wasn't trying to stop him, lecture him on what to do, or go with him.
Olivia felt him stop. She turned to look at him, "Those are your children in the room. If it wasn't for me Teddy wouldn't be here. He is a blessing that I will spend the rest of my life cherishing. I get it now. Handle it. You are the man of the house, the head of this family, the father of our children. I know you can handle."
Fitz walked over and kissed her, "The three of us, and a nice warm bath. I won't be long."
"We'll be waiting."
Fitz went to his office and returned Mellie's call. She picked up, and immediately began to say that Teddy misinterpreted what he heard. She went on and on until she insinuated that he wasn't telling the complete truth.
Fitz yelled, "That is enough."
Mellie jumped. He was so loud she felt like he was in the room.
Fitz continued, "This is what is going to happen. You get to see the kids once a month supervised visitation in public. As much as I want to tarnish your image I won't stoop down to your level. The visits will be determined by us. When and where by us. I don't give a damn about your schedule. Thank your lucky stars that during dinner tonight Olivia convinced the kids well Teddy that parents make mistake. I practically had to bride Karen after what she heard. I want to be clear about something Mellie I am over your games. This is not chess. There are no more plays. The next play I ruin you, and put you in prison. I have three children, and my future wife to think about. You heard me right. You are putting in the work as a junior senator, and I have no intention of derailing you. However, if either of my children come back to us and tell us that you said anything negative about me, Livvie, or our children I will end you with no warning are we clear?"
Mellie was quiet for a moment. She had pissed Fitz off in the past especially when it came to Olivia, but she had crossed a line. She was surprised that Fitz was allowing supervised visitation instead of behind closed doors. She was surprised that Olivia didn't use the opportunity to rip her, but again she wasn't. that was her not Olivia.
Mellie croaked, "Clear"
Fitz ended the call without allowing Mellie to say another word.
The week of Christmas was fun for the family. They went into town to a flea market. A lot of the residents were shocked to find out the couple owned a home. They had kept the papers hidden to protect them.
Some residents asked for pictures and autographs, but for the most part left them alone. Olivia met a woman who made jam, and told Olivia she would be happy to show her. Olivia was so excited that she could make that part of their dream come true.
Christmas Eve the family spent the day at the house. They rode on the snowmobile, had snowball fights, made snow angels, and made ice cream out of snow. Olivia and the children made brownies for Santa, and they watched movies together.
After the kids turned in they relaxed in their living room before playing Santa.
Olivia was laying between Fitz's leg on their chaise enjoying their fireplace. "We are going to have to do the next part of the interview soon. Bean is going to be big."
"I told you all my babies were big."
"I know."
"Are you okay with doing an interview?"
"I am. I have some concerns, but I know that we can fix them."
"If you are in so am I…"
"Ready to play Santa for the first time."
"I am."
Christmas day was special for the four of them. It was quiet, and the couple enjoyed seeing the kids open their kids. Teddy was happy with Santa. Fitz spoiled Olivia with chocolate diamonds, the latest designer purses and shoes. The key to her heart.
Olivia purchased Karen her first Prada bags. She didn't realize how much it would mean to her. She had also put together several outfits.
When Karen went to try one on Fitz explained.
"Mellie didn't really buy them gifts. Actually she didn't buy them her assistant did, and as they got older it was gift cards and cash. While I had Lauren purchase mine I would still shop for things. Jerry was easier as you can imagine. You took the time to purchase things for her, and not just purchase something expensive but something she likes and wants. Hence the excitement."
Olivia was speechless for a moment, but realized that she understood Karen. Mellie was her mother. She vowed to herself to never be them with the kids. That work would never be more important than them, and they would always matter. They would always know she loved them.
Fitz was a better cook that Olivia, but she surprised him in the kitchen. She could actually cook so they cooked their own Christmas dinner.
They arrived back to the White House the first of the year. Everyone commented on how refreshed the family looked. The media was still talking about the pictures of the family celebrating New Year's in Vermont.
There was a reporter there for the local newspaper. The couple agreed she could share photos of them, but no interview. They promised her an exclusive when they moved there permanently.
The young woman was more than okay with that. She was the only reporter with any type of release to show the family.
The couple even commented on some of the photos she posted to the paper's Twitter and Facebook account.
They were preparing for the interview that they asked Marcus to schedule a week after they returned.
Fitz smiled as he looked at Olivia. She was truly glowing. She was almost three months pregnant, but she didn't want anyone to start any rumors.
She had decided on a painted rosebud fil coupe Oscar de la Renta dress.
Kimberly Mitchell smiled at the couple. She started the interview, "So from the looks of it you and your family had a wonderful holiday."
Fitz smiled, "We did. It was our first together as a family. The kids spent some time with their mother before meeting us in Vermont. We really got to make our house a home, and it was everything we could have wanted.
KM: Miss. Pope
OP: Olivia please
KM: Olivia, you seem to be adjusting to the role of First Lady, and being a stepmother to the First Children. The world knows you as the famous fixer. Are you giving that up?
OP: Yes, I have decided to give that up until Fitz leaves office. Not because I was asked to, but because I want to. I have fixed the lives of people you are aware of, and some you do not due to their request for privacy. In doing that I put no effort into my own life. I am doing that now. There is only 18 months left in office, but it gives me a chance to explore fixing in a different capacity. Also Karen is no longer in boarding school, and Teddy is in pre-school. With Fitz being President, and Mellie now a junior senator we wanted to make sure that we all could be more hands on with the kids.
KM: Well I understand that you have exciting news to share.
FG:(He looked at Olivia and smiled before looking at Kimberly) Olivia & I wanted to share with the country that we are expecting our first child together.
KM: (Shocked. Olivia was glowing, but she looked great. She composed herself) Congratulations, I know that you both are thrilled considering everything that you have been through.
The couple thanked her
KM: I have to ask. What do you say to those people who will have a problem with you being pregnant, but not married? What kind of example are you setting?
They knew that was going to be the first question, and it was decided that Olivia would answer the question.
OP: We would say we understand, and we thought long and hard about that when we found out we were expecting. Fitz didn't put any pressure on me, but I decided that when our child was born that I wanted to be married to the love of my life, and their father which is why on New Year's Day we tied the knot.
For the first time Olivia moved her hand from under Fitz, and he put his hand on his knee to show his wedding band. The country was now looking at the first interracial couple in the White House.
They smiled at each other knowing it is going to be great.
A/N-I still have no plans to watch Scandal when it returns next month. For those who are still on the wagon, if there are some Olitz moment you will have to let me know, and I will go online to review for a possible one shot. In the meantime, I will continue. There will be a part two to this one that will give a flashback to their wedding ceremony. I hope you enjoyed the monologue between Fitz & Rowan. I used the one between Huck & Rowan. Until next time.