When the couple made it back to the United States they were met by the media who wanted to know if the couple were engaged. The couple did not address the media. Before they left Italy, they decided that it was time to do an interview. The engagement would come out. It was time for Teddy to live full time with Fitz, and he was getting ready to do some big things with his foundation. He had also received calls about writing his memoir. He had put it off until he figured out where he and Olivia were going. If they were going to be together he wanted to make those decisions with her. Once they got settled in Vermont they would finalize some of those decisions.
Mellie was aware that he was going to propose. He told her beforehand so she knew why he was requesting Teddy fly to Italy. She thought about making things difficult, but she took one look at Marcus and let it go.
The couple didn't want a stuffy interview. Fitz was no longer in the White House. Olivia suggested Oprah. She loved her shows, and knew that she would handle it the way they wanted. Lauren made some calls, and she was more than willing to interview the couple. They decided to do it at their Vermont home. After all it was the next chapter of their life. After speaking with Oprah they decided to allow her to include their wedding as part of the interview so they wouldn't sit down with her until after they return from the honeymoon.
The day Teddy got out of school the custody arrangements switched. Fitz now had full physical custody. Mellie would get him once a month, the week before Christmas, and a month during the summer. What she didn't know was that Huck & Quinn would continue to monitor her on those visits, and if the nanny was taking care of him then Fitz would exercise the clause that allowed her visits to be cut and supervised if necessary.
The three of them made it to Vermont where they met Karen who was out of school for the summer. She had planned to go to Europe, but she changed her plans. Growing up she didn't get normal summer vacations where they spent time together as family. She wanted to spend time with her dad, Olivia, and her brother.
She was surprised on her last day of class to see the three of them waiting for her at her dorm. It was really cool to have her parents there like the other students. It was normal, and she loved normal.
Once all the kids were settled it was time to focus on the wedding.
While the family was on vacation in Hawaii Olivia had decided that she wanted to hire David Tutera as her wedding planner. His show was one of her guilty pleasures when she watched something other than the news.
Once they were back in Vermont they sat down with him. It was a productive meeting. As much as Olivia wanted to get married in Vermont she didn't want all the guests at their home. She wanted this space to remain private.
They were going back and forth with alternative options when Fitz suggested that they build a small chapel for the service. He had purchased all the surrounding land. It would still allow them to get married at home without their private property being invaded with guests.
Fitz smiled when he saw that Olivia was satisfied with that solution. The couple told him what they envisioned their day to look like. David asked the couple to give him a couple of weeks. When he came back he would take their ideas, and put together some options.
Fitz looked at his fiancée, "As long as she gets everything she desires then I will be happy."
"I will make sure that happens."
After the meeting, Olivia was sitting in their home office. Fitz could tell that she had something on her mind. It didn't start today. He allowed her time to work through it. He couldn't take her torturing herself anymore.
He walked in. She looked up at him, "Hi honey?"
He smiled, "You okay?"
She nodded.
He walked over and handed her a folder. She looked at him confused, but opened the folder. Her head shot up.
Fitz said, "If you want to open that door again I am okay. Lord knows we went through the door more times than either of us cares to count, but what is most important is that we got it right. We forgave each other, learned, and moved on."
She got up and walked around to the sofa. He sat down, and she climbed in his lap.
"Are you sure?"
"Yes, this isn't about me."
"It is. We will be getting married in three months."
"True. I am happy if you are happy, and I believe that time has healed your wounds. I understand why you couldn't do it at the time, but you aren't the same woman. Whatever you decide is fine with me. You don't have to tell me your decision. Just do it. If you need me I will be there."
Olivia thought about it for a couple of days before deciding to go for it. Since it was Teddy's first visit back to Washington to visit his mom she agreed to kill two birds in one stone. She would drop him off before heading to Virginia.
She took a breath before she rang the doorbell. She heard the woman say she was coming. A few seconds later the door opened. Abby was shocked.
"Hi Abby..."
"Hi Liv..."
They stood there staring at each other for a moment before Abby said, "I am sorry. Where are my manners? Please come in."
Olivia nodded and walked in the house. They made their way into the kitchen were Abby was working on dinner.
Abby didn't know what to say. Finally, she said, "David was supposed to be home for dinner, but something happened with his client. He has to work late. I was going to fix something light to hold me over until he gets home. Would you like to join me?"
Olivia nodded, "Sure..."
Abby fixed her a glass of wine. Olivia smiled, "Thanks..."
"You are welcome. Since you are here I wanted to congratulate you on your engagement. I thought about sending something, but I figured you didn't want to hear from me."
Olivia looked at her, "I didn't think I ever wanted to hear or see you again."
"What changed?"
"I got engaged."
Abby looked at her.
"When everything went down I wanted three things. I wanted my father gone. I wanted Huck to live and get better, and I wanted to better myself. All three of those things happened. I began to get treatment before I left Washington, and continued when I went away. Unlike before I didn't run. Everyone knew where I was."
Abby asked, "Including Fitz..."
"Yes, I wasn't going to tell him, but I called him. I didn't give the specific location, but I knew the clue I gave him he would figure it out. He worked on some things once he left office, and he eventually showed up. I thought that I loved Fitz, but that was lust or passion. What we built over the last year has been all about love, because now we both give and take from each other instead of just him doing all the work."
Abby nodded.
"We are planning our wedding, and I am talking with David Tutera. He is asking me what I imagine my day to be like, and in every thought and dream you are there. At one point, I would have never imagined going down this road without you. You were my best friend. You were like a sister to me. Other than Quinn no woman has ever cared about me."
Abby couldn't stop the tears from falling. She didn't want to bring up the past. It was too painful. She was enjoying the power and prestige. To this day, she is trying to pinpoint the moment that it went too far. There are too many little moments that she looks back on that she didn't stop. By the time, she realized that it was going too far it was too late, and Huck was shot. She knew Olivia was going to be upset, and she expected for them not to speak. She never expected for Olivia to cut her out of her life although in hindsight she should have.
She appreciated that Fitz had allowed her to stay on until his term ended. He didn't trust her with much, but he didn't disrespect her either. His glowing letter of recommendation got her on with one of the top firms in Virginia where she now led their crisis management department. She had eventually gotten back together with David, and they were doing well.
She tried to find out what Olivia was up to. Although they were a power couple they were private for the most part. She was surprised to find out they were back together when they went to New York the previous year. She had a feeling they would get back together. That was not what surprised her.
It was seeing how relaxed and carefree Olivia looked. Sometimes she wore her hair straight while other times she had her hair in her natural curls. The pictures of her with the kids is what surprised Abby the most. She never thought she would see the day where Olivia preferred domestic life over being the formidable Olivia Pope.
She thought it might be a phase until her former boss received a call from Mellie. She advised her that Olivia recommended her.
Abby asked, "Are you working again?"
Olivia shook her head, "I've been helping Fitz. I'm having an office built in Vermont, but I am not going back into crisis management. Fitz & I want to help. In between our travels, I got my license to practice in Vermont. I plan to take on some civil right cases. Mostly pro bono work."
"So Vermont is real?"
"It is very real. It is now our full-time home."
Abby looked up, "Wow, you have totally changed."
"For the better."
The two continued to talk over dinner. It was like it used to be.
Olivia looked at Abby, "I forgive you. The past is the past. We both made a lot of mistakes, but we learned from them. We are better people now."
"I have missed our friendship."
"I have missed it too. Fitz and I are getting married in three months. It would mean a lot to be if you would be one of my bridesmaids. I am going to ask Karen to be my maid of honor."
Abby smiled, "I would be honored. I am just glad that I get to see you finally get your happily ever after."
"Me too. He is my everything…"
"I am really sorry for the pain I caused you. It was never my intent. I really admire the woman you are, and I am proud of the work that I do now. I have power, but I use it responsibly."
"I know."
They talked for a few more minutes. Neither had realized how late it was until David walked in the house. He smiled when he saw their guest.
"Wow, Olivia Pope in the flesh. How are you?"
"I'm great. I brought Teddy down to visit his mom, and decided to take a chance on catching up with Abby."
"Well it is good seeing you. I heard that congratulations are in order. You are about to become Mrs. Olivia Pope-Grant."
She nodded, "I am about to become Mrs. Grant. Pope is my past. Grant is my future."
"I am happy for you."
"Thank you, David. I look forward to seeing you at my wedding in a couple of months if you are happy for me."
He looked at Abby.
"We made up. Olivia asked me to be in the wedding and I agreed."
He smiled because he knew that is what Abby wanted.
Olivia said, "Actually I was hoping that you guys could come to our home next weekend. My wedding planner is coming to show us some layouts for our wedding. I know that my fiancée is going to defer to me so I could use some additional input, and we can catch up some more afterwards."
Abby looked at David. He said, "I am free."
Abby nodded to show she was available as well.
Olivia & Abby gave each other their information. Olivia informed her she would arrange for the jet to bring them to Vermont.
Olivia was happy. She wasn't sure she was making the right decision until Abby opened the door. She realized that time had healed old wounds. They had both made mistakes, and they had both been there for the other when needed. Abby was family. She was like a sister to her, and she not only needed Abby she wanted Abby. She wanted her future children to have Aunt Abby and Aunt Quinn in their life. They may not have biological family, but they had family. She knew she could trust them with their life, and they would do everything they could to protect her and those she loved.
Olivia had made her way back home. For years, she lived alone and she loved the solitude, but now she wasn't looking forward to being alone. She was used to hearing Teddy playing with his toys, and hearing Karen on her computer or phone. Fitz in his office on a conference call or talking with Lauren and Charlotte.
She saw a light on in the kitchen. She could have sworn that she had cut off all the lights, but evidently, she forgot.
She said goodnight to her bodyguard. Fitz hired private security to protect Olivia when she was alone. Once they married she would then be protected by the Secret Service.
She set the alarm, and made her way to the kitchen to fix some dinner.
When she walked in the kitchen she gasped at what she saw.
Fitz looked at her and smiled, "Hi…"
She whispered "Hi…What are you doing here?"
"To be here for you. Whether you fixed things with Abby or not I knew that it would it would be emotionally taxing, and I didn't want you to be alone."
Olivia walked over and kissed him. She finally pulled back, "I love you so much Fitz…"
"I love you more…"
He walked Olivia in the dining room where there was a candlelight dinner waiting for her. He pulled her seat out, and uncovered the dishes.
He had made lasagna with a Caesar salad.
As he was pouring their wine she looked at him and said, "When I was pulling up I was thinking about how I lived alone for years, and looked forward to going home to the quiet. I was sad when I pulled up."
Fitz looked at her, "Why?"
"I love the noise now. I love hearing Karen taping away on her computer, tablet, or phone. I love hearing Teddy in the family room playing with his toys. I relish walking by your office hearing you on the phone or talking with Lauren and Charlotte. Don't get me wrong I am enjoying us having time alone, but it means I am with you. I am not alone."
"You will never be alone again. How did it go with Abby?"
Olivia told him about the conversation, and inviting the couple to Vermont next weekend. He could see this was the missing piece for her. He knew she was happy, but he could tell something was holding her back from complete happiness. It was why he asked Huck to get him the file on Abby. Huck told him that Abby had reached out to him, and they had talked. He had the file for some time, and was waiting for the right time. She had finally dealt with the past, and she was fully ready to embrace their future.
Fitz smiled, "I look forward to hosting everyone next weekend. Most importantly I am glad that you have all of your family back."
"Me too…"
After they finished dinner she insisted on cleaning up, and told him to go relax. She would meet him in the living room to watch a movie.
The following weekend started out like Olivia planned. David arrived in town. He sat down with the couple, Karen, and Abby. He showed them what he envisioned for their wedding based on their ideas. Olivia was in heaven. She loved everything that he suggested. It was really shaping up to be her fairytale wedding.
Fitz informed her that they were going out to dinner with David & Abby the following evening. After they finished with David they headed to a local bridal shop. The dresses that Olivia wanted to try on would not be in until the following week so they scheduled another appointment.
They went next door. Karen found a dress that she insisted Olivia get to wear for the double date the following evening. Olivia had to admit she loved the dress.
The following evening after she finished her hair and make-up she stepped into the off-white Tanika high-low gown. She paired it with a pair of gold Jimmy Choo sandals.
Fitz never told her where they were going to have dinner. It didn't matter. She was with her fiancée, and she was rebuilding her relationship with one of her dearest friends. That was all that mattered to her. They pulled up to a winery that Olivia had read about.
When the door opened to the private room she was shocked. This wasn't a private dinner. This was an engagement party.
David walked over, "Your stepdaughter to be called me after you hired me. Although you celebrated your engagement in Italy she wanted you to have an engagement party."
In addition to the kids and her team she saw Lauren and Charlotte with their significant others. She also saw friends that the couple made when they were in Washington. The photographer that captured their engagement in Italy was here.
David explained that Karen did most of this on her on. He just helped with the vendors, and getting everything set up.
Olivia's outfit complimented the design of the room.
Karen had the tables decked out like old Hollywood. It was a sleek black, white, and gold. The centerpieces were white roses. The plates and glasses were white along with the napkins that had the couple's initials engraved on them. The silverware and the candles were gold.
There was a specialty drink made in honor of the couple called Olitz's love. It was all white drink served in a white glass with sugar around the rim. It could be made with and without alcohol.
Olivia couldn't stop the tears from falling. Fitz knew that his daughter wanted to plan the party, and helped her with the guest list. The rest of it was her doing, and he had to admit that he was overwhelmed himself.
David let everyone know that Karen had something to say before they sat down for dinner.
Karen looked at her dad and stepmom to be, "Although this party is to celebrate the engagement of my dad and Liv I really wanted to make sure that I celebrated my stepmom. Everyone knows that she has always been about fixing. Not just in her professional life, but her personal life. I was so happy when she got back together with my dad. Not just for his sake, but hers as well. From the moment, they met my brother and I knew she and dad were soulmates. Everyone in this room has a story on how Olivia saved them including me, and for once I wanted to celebrate her. I wanted to find a way to thank her for not only saving my dad, but my brothers and me. Although Jerry is not here with us I know he would be cheering louder than me. Let's raise our glasses to my parents. Fitz & Olivia!"
The couple made their way over to Karen. Both had tears in their eyes. Fitz shared a long embrace with his daughter, and thanked her.
He stepped aside for Olivia. The two of them hugged for even longer. Olivia pulled back and looked at Karen, "You are the beautiful young woman I always knew you would be. Even when you made mistakes I told your dad that you would be fine, because while you may look like your mother you act just like your dad. You have such a kind heart and soul, and it has been a pleasure and honor to know you. It is my honor to be able to call you my stepdaughter, and I hope if I have a daughter she turns out just like her big sister."
Karen wiped the tears from her eyes, "She will be even better because she will have one of the best moms in the whole wide world. I love you."
"I love you too kiddo. So much. Never forget that. We will always be there for you. No matter where your life takes you know that your dad and I are only a phone call away."
"I know and I am glad that is how Teddy will be raised."
After sharing another long embrace, and taking pictures together as a family the couple began to mingle with their guests. As Olivia looked over at Abby she was even happier that she made up with her in time for her to be here with them.
It was time for dinner. Karen created a menu that had a combination of their favorite foods.
They started out with a green salad with raspberries. It was dressed with lemon vinaigrette. For their entrée, they enjoyed beef filet & pistachio and herb chicken with mushy peas, twice baked potatoes, and red wine jus.
For desert, they had fresh doughnut balls coated in cinnamon sugar, and served with chocolate ganache which was Olivia's favorite. They also had white chocolate mousse which her dad loved.
Olivia didn't think it could get any better until they wheeled out their engagement cake. Once again to combine what both loved. There were three tiers of vanilla cupcakes with white icing and black and gold hearts. It was topped with a one layer red velvet cake with vanilla icing and decorated with the same black and gold hearts. It had congratulations on your engagement with their names on each side.
The couple lovingly fed cake to each other. It was a night to remember. Abby was in the corner watching Olivia. Teddy had gotten sleepy. They had hired Marta to come work for them when the custody arrangements changed. She offered to take Teddy, but he didn't want to leave Olivia's side. Olivia didn't have a problem keeping him. She sat at the table holding him while holding conversations with others. She never imagined she would see this side of Olivia. Not just Olivia being domesticated, but being a mother. The happiness on her face was everything. She was grateful to be a part of this moment, and couldn't wait for the day that Olivia gave birth to her own child. She knew that would complete them.
When they got home, Fitz was taking Teddy to his room to put him to bed. Teddy sat up and looked at Liv, "Mama Liv, are you going to read to me?"
Since they had gotten engaged he asked if he could call her mom. After some discussion, they came up with Mama Liv.
She nodded, "I will be right up sweetie. Let me make sure that your aunts and uncles don't need anything okay?"
He nodded and laid his head back on his dad's shoulders.
Olivia wasn't expecting Huck & Quinn. Since the guest house was three bedrooms both couples decided to stay in the guest house together. Since Marta didn't care for Teddy full time she insisted on helping around the house to compensate for her full-time nanny salary. She had made sure that the house was set up for the additional guests that Olivia didn't know would be arriving.
Olivia walked to the guest house with them. She made sure they were okay. She realized that Marta had prepared for them. Olivia said goodnight to them so she could get back to the house.
Abby grabbed her hand, "I am really glad I am here, and I am really happy for you. Karen is right. You deserve to be celebrated, and I am glad that I was here tonight to celebrate you. Thank you for all the times you saved me. I love you Liv."
"Love you too Abby. You are like a sister to me. That is what you do for family. I am glad to have you back in my life."
Olivia made it back to the house, and met Fitz in Teddy's room where they read to him. Due to all the excitement, they didn't make it through the book before he was out.
When they walked out the room Fitz asked, "Would you like to take a bath?"
She nodded, "I just want to say goodnight to Karen."
She stopped by Karen's room and knocked. Karen told her she could come in.
Olivia peeked in the room, "I just wanted to say goodnight kiddo."
"Goodnight Liv."
"Karen, thank you again for tonight. Other than your dad no one has done anything that thoughtful for me. I was going to take you to lunch tomorrow to ask you, but now seems like a good time. I was wondering if you would be my maid of honor?"
Karen looked up in shock, "What about Quinn and Abby?"
"They are my bridesmaids, but I want you by my side that day. I also want you to help me do something special for your dad."
"If it is what you want?"
Olivia walked over to Karen, "I assure you this is what I want. I know that I will officially be your stepmom in a couple of months, but you and Teddy are not my stepchildren. You are my children who happen from another mother."
"I like that…"
"Me too…"
The rest of the weekend was fun filled. This was the first time that David & Abby had been to the Vermont estate, and loved it. Huck & Quinn had been before, but did not have to spend a lot of time there so they all enjoyed Olivia's new home. Abby went out to the orchids, and pulled some fruit and made pies with Olivia.
Fitz, David, and Huck smiled watching the two in the kitchen. Quinn was playing with Teddy. He loved computers so whenever Huck and Quinn were around they showed him new tricks. He now called her team his aunts and uncles. Fitz loved that his kids now had family. It might not be biological, but he knew that they would protect the kids.
Fitz had spoken with Teddy during breakfast, and asked him to be his best man. It felt right to have his son beside him especially with Karen being Olivia's maid of honor.
After the weekend, it was back to business as usual for the family. Between wedding planning, they enjoyed time as a family.
Teddy loved playing soccer so they found him a summer league to play in, and he was having the time of his life. He had made several new friends which in turn meant the couple had made friends as well.
Fitz loved how relaxed his life was now, and that when they had guests over to their home Olivia didn't make it out to be like a State dinner. That wasn't what he loved the most. It was the relationships that she was developing with the children.
Three to four days a week she would work with Teddy in the pool to improve his swimming. He went from just wanting to learn how to swim to wanting to join a swim team to compete. Olivia agreed to work with him on his strokes a little more one on one, and in a year if he was still interested she would find him a team.
The bond between Karen & Olivia seemed to be even closer. Karen had decided to attend Harvard Law School. She didn't want to be too far from home especially when Olivia started having children. Her mother didn't like the decision, and felt that Fitz & Olivia had influenced her decision. It was true that they had, but not in the way that she was thinking.
Olivia had spent hours helping her with her application, and even wrote a glowing letter of recommendation for her. The only advice that both her dad and Olivia had given her was to follow her heart.
They were down to a month before the wedding. Olivia had picked her gowns. David had suggested a ceremony gown, and a reception gown since Olivia planned to dance a lot. The bridal party dresses and tuxedos had been picked.
David had taken the couple's vision, and made it a reality. Fitz paid the contractor double to ensure that the chapel was built, and there was enough time for Olivia and David to see it and make sure that it would allow Olivia's vision to come to life.
Karen would be headed back to school soon. She hadn't seen her mother most of the summer, because she was out of the country. When she was in town the two seemed to miss each other.
One night Mellie called asking if they could meet for lunch. Mellie said, "I could come to you."
"No, mother I will come to the White House. You are not using me to come to try and see what is going on with Dad and Liv."
"I am not trying to do that. Just in case you forgot young lady I have moved on."
"I know you mother. You might be able to pull one over on Marcus, but not me. I will be there this weekend. No games. If you reschedule then we won't see each other for a while, because I will be swamped between the wedding and school."
"Fine, I will see you this weekend."
Karen arrived at the White House. She recalled the times she was there when her father was President, and she rarely saw him smile. She recalled how unhappy he was. The only time there was ever light in his eyes was when Olivia was nearby. She thought when her brother died they had lost him forever. She knew about his suicide attempt, but she would never tell him. She knew he was embarrassed, but she understood. Between his brother and Olivia, it was all too much at one time.
He found the courage to move forward even when he thought all hope was lost with Olivia. She was so happy that he divorced her mom. She was right where she wanted to be. In the White House. At least in title she was the most powerful women in the country. A title she never wanted. Like her dad she just wants to create change, and she understands that a title won't do that.
She was greeted by her stepfather Marcus. He was a nice man, and she had to admit that her mother was not as frigid as she used to be. She still knew that deep down her mother was still the same woman. She had to be in control, and at the end of the day it would always be about money and power. If she had to choose Marcus would lose every time.
He let her know that her mom was finishing a conference call, and would be a few minutes. She noticed that most of the staff had changed. She knew it was in part, because she had the power to make those changes. Forgetting that it wouldn't hurt dad when she fired these people, and because she was still unsure of who was reporting to her dad when Teddy was here. She still had no clue that she could replace every single person, and it wouldn't mean a thing.
A few minutes later Mellie walked in with her Chief of Staff rattling off instructions a mile a minute. It was clear the woman was overworked, and not appreciated. She was so glad this was not her life anymore.
When Karen stood up to hug her mother she noticed the photographer in the corner.
Karen shook her head, "Unbelievable..."
Mellie looked at her, "Come on Karen. Don't act like you are new to this."
Karen just looked at her mom, "Fine, get your pictures in, because these will be the last ones you will get with me for a while."
Mellie was shocked at the tone she took with her.
Lunch was tense, but the photographer managed to snap a couple of pictures that didn't scream how mad Karen was.
Finally, Mellie nodded that it was enough. He was more than happy to leave the room.
Karen dropped her fork. Mellie looked at her, "Young lady please remember your manners."
"Mother, I know where my manners are. The question is where are yours. You invite your daughter to lunch whom you have not seen in months, and turn it into a press op."
"Whose fault is that?"
"Yours, for this very reason. If for once you thought about being my mother first before being First Lady, or Senator, or President then I would try to be your daughter more. Since I am nothing more than a pawn in your game, then I am never going to apologize for not running when you call."
"Yet, you did when your dad was President."
"That is where you are wrong. From the time, you sent us away we saw dad on a regular basis. They lied to you when they said that cameras were not allowed on campus. They did that so you wouldn't continue to use us, and it allowed us to have a normal and peaceful existence. Dad never missed anything important. He came undetected with no cameras, and was just a dad. He didn't have a photographer sneaking pictures."
Mellie looked at her in shock, "Olivia..."
"Yes, even after you called her a whore for sleeping with dad. She left the White House feeling ashamed when the only thing that happened was she fell in love with a man that was married to a woman that didn't love him, but his money and title. You didn't want dad, and you still don't want dad now, but you don't want Olivia to have him because then she wins. It is interesting that you have this pissing contest that you are the only one in the contest. You are always so worried about what they say especially Olivia, and the fact is that you are the only one that sets demands for me. You are the only one that has never sat down, and asked me what I want."
Mellie looked at her daughter, and knew by the look on her face that she was telling the truth.
"I knew you were going to pull a stunt, but I came anyways. You are my mother, and I will always love you. Maybe one day you will see Teddy & I for what we are which is your children. We are not objects for you to move around where you see fit. We are humans. More importantly we are children. The difference is that I am an adult child now. You don't get to throw insults at me anymore to make me do what you want. Although it is doesn't matter the only advice that I ever received from Dad & Liv about my college decisions was to make the best decision for me. The only advice you have ever given me is how to climb a social ladder. You don't get to bully me anymore mother. If you want a relationship with me then you will earn it. Otherwise good luck explaining to the media why I am absent, and don't think for a second I won't refute any lies so be careful of the story that you tell if I feel they spin me in a negative light."
Karen stood up. Mellie grabbed her wrist, "I'm really sorry Karen. I didn't know."
Karen nodded, "I understand, but it doesn't matter whether you knew or not. We both know it wouldn't have changed your behavior. The only reason you are trying to smooth things over is because I am adult now. You don't get to control me, and dad has made sure that you can't do to Teddy what you did to Jerry and I. For once in your life you should be who you claim to be. If you are so big and powerful now is your chance to prove it. I wish you nothing but success and happiness. Know that I will always love you."
Karen walked out the door leaving Mellie stunned. It was sad, because she didn't know who that was that walked out the door. Physically it was her daughter, but she had nothing to do with the young woman that she had become. It was sad, and she had no one to blame but herself.
The truth was she was floundering. Olivia & Fitz had made sure she got in office, but it was clear that they held the real power. Even with Olivia out of business she was still a force to be reckoned with. If she decided to walk back into Washington it would be hers, and there would be nothing that she could do about it. Fitz might have be a Grant, but he did something she hadn't. He didn't use his father's name when he became President. He put in the work. Even when Olivia & Cyrus made things happen he didn't rely on them. He didn't ride on their coat tails especially in his second term. He clearly earned the respect of his constituents. She wasn't having the same luck.
At first, she tried to blame it on being a woman, but the fact was that she was lazy. Everything had been handed to her even this job. She had used Fitz's feelings for Olivia to get him to support her. She had used Olivia's feelings for Fitz to get her to run the campaign. Now they were off living happily ever after. Living the life, they always wanted after giving her the life she said she wanted, and she was on the verge of losing it if she didn't come up with a hail Mary.
Karen made it back to Vermont to spend some more time with her family before heading back to school. Fitz knew something happened when Karen went to see her mom, but Olivia told him to let her come to them if she wanted to. She was a young adult now, and they had to learn to trust her to make the right decisions for her.
Karen had to admit she was shocked when her dad didn't give her the third degree about the visit. She kept it to herself at first, but one night she told them what happened. The couple simply told Karen they were there for her, and it was the end of the discussion.
They insisted on taking Karen back to school. It was the first time that Fitz could help her move, and although she was not a freshman she had to admit she was looking forward to having them there.
When they arrived on campus she was surprised that they passed her dorm. The school offered to do things for her, but she refused most because she didn't want to put another student out just because she was the President's daughter. The only concessions she made were the ones required by the Secret Service.
Before she could ask where they were going they pulled up to a condominium that was very close to campus. Karen recognized the condos. They were recently built. She knew that some of the staff lived there as well as some of the students. Most of the students were graduate students since the condos were for sale not rent.
Karen looked at her dad and Olivia.
Fitz smiled, "I had nothing to do with this. Not that I don't approve."
Karen was still confused.
Olivia explained, "Before I even knew about the surprise engagement party I told your dad that I wanted to do something special for you especially since you will be here for four more years. While the idea was mine your dad & I worked together to find this condominium for you. With everything that happened to Jerry you really didn't celebrate graduating high school or even getting accepted into college. Since the agents drive you around most of the time you didn't want a car so we decided to this for you."
Karen was in shock as she looked at the condominium. It was perfect. It was modern but not stuffy. They had purchased her a three bedroom, three bath condos. It was almost 2900 square feet. Karen loved the open layout, and that everything was on one level. When they walked in it now made sense why Olivia had Karen picking out living room sets. She told her it was to furnish their offices, but she found the furniture in her condominium. She was in love with her bedroom so Olivia had the designer to use the same layout, but it was a little more sophisticated.
Karen ran into Olivia's arms and began to sob. It was cute at first, but it was clear after a few minutes that the tears were filled with happiness and pain. Olivia moved them over to the sofa where she held Karen as she cried.
Fitz was scared, but Olivia looked at him and let him know to give her time to get this out. She deserved it.
When she finally calmed down Olivia helped her clean her face, "Do you want to talk about it?"
"It is really nothing to talk about. For so long I just wanted a mom. Not a mother. Not a woman who had me out of obligation, but loved me for me. A mom who just wanted me to be happy, and would do anything to make that happen. I just wanted a mom who saw me, and I had given up on that ever happening until the moment we talked in Washington. I don't know if my mother will change, but I think we both accepted at lunch that she will always be my mother. I know that she loves me, but she has no desire to be my mom. I have accepted that, but as I look around at all you have done for me for the first time I realize I still want a mom figure. I want what Teddy has. I want Mama Liv."
Olivia kissed her forehead. She could see that Fitz was trying to contain his emotions as he listened to his daughter. Olivia waited until she looked her in the eyes, "You have me. Whether you need me as Liv or Mama Liv I am there. I can't replace Mellie, and I don't want to, but I will be what you need me to be. I am not going anywhere."
Fitz nodded, "You darn right. In less than a month there will be paperwork that clearly says until death do us part..."
Olivia laughed, "True, but I don't need paperwork. My running days are over. I am right where I want to be."
Once they returned home it was countdown to the wedding. Olivia's office was finished, and she offered it to David so that he could be here to make sure that everything was set for the wedding. He was staying in town for the last two weeks, and he was surprised that Olivia had remained calm even when they had a few hiccups. He wasn't sure if it was because of her job as a crisis manager, or the fact she was finally marrying her soul mate. He expected this to be a difficult job considering who the couple was, but they were so laid back. He wished more celebrity couples were like them.
With their wedding around the corner Olivia had something big to handle before walking down the aisle. She asked Fitz to accompany her.
Olivia checked in and waited to be called back. It didn't take long. Fitz smiled as she greeted everyone by name, and asked about their families. It reminded him of their days on the trail.
After a few minutes, her doctor walked in. Olivia smiled at her long-time doctor. "Olivia, I would ask how are you, but considering I am attending your wedding soon I would guess you are doing well."
Olivia grinned, "You are right, and I hope by the end of this appointment I will be even better."
Fitz was confused. He just thought that Olivia was getting a physical, but he didn't say anything. He was thinking that with her getting older, and them considering children she was nervous.
Fitz sat quietly as the ladies did their thing. Blood work was drawn, and the couple talked while she waited for the results.
The doctor came in a short time later, "Olivia, everything looks great. You are healthy as a horse, and although for your age you would be considered a high-risk pregnancy I don't foresee you having any problems. That only leaves us one thing to do."
Olivia looked at her fiancée, "I wanted you here, because once I was given a clean bill of health I asked the doctor to remove my IUD. I wanted you to be part a part of this so you know how much I want this for us. I want you there for everything."
Fitz was overwhelmed with emotions as he understood why Olivia wanted him to come to the doctor with her. She had already told him that once she had her IUD removed that it typically takes about 4-6 months to conceive. He thought they would discuss it after the wedding, but she was telling him that when they walked down the aisle they were complete. He could not describe how happy he was in that moment.
She leaned over and kissed him. She could tell how overwhelmed he was, and she could see how happy she made him.
It only took a couple of minutes to remove the IUD, but it changed everything for the couple in that moment. The doctor stepped out to allow them a moment.
Fitz stood up and walked over to Olivia. He put his hand on her stomach. She looked at him, "I'll never take away from you ever again."
He shushed her, "None of that matters anymore. It wasn't our time. It is now, and I can't thank you enough. I know I am not always the easiest man to deal with, and being with me takes away a lot of your privacy, but I assure you that I am worth it."
"You are more than worth it. From now on everything needs to make it inside of me. We are officially trying to make a baby."
Olivia could only smile as she saw how happy she made him. She knew he would have been happy if she told him, but it wasn't the same as him being here. It was the perfect way to lead up to their wedding.
It was the morning of the wedding. Olivia had decided that they wouldn't get married until six in the evening. Although the ceremony was being held in the chapel the reception was being held outside, and she wanted the guests to be comfortable.
Like their relationship the couple had not followed tradition. They had not slept apart the night before. They chose to start their wedding morning by having breakfast with just the kids.
Olivia had decided that she wanted to have two different looks on her wedding so they were going to take pictures before the ceremony since Olivia would need an hour to get ready after they were married. She used her long-time team Takisha Drew and Carola Gonzalez to make her look beautiful on her big day.
After breakfast Olivia & Karen head over to the guest house where they would be getting ready for the wedding. When she walked in she smiled as she saw Ella enjoying cartoons with Abby & Quinn. Although they were not as close as they use to be they had patch things up with Cyrus. Olivia missed their goddaughter, with Cyrus being older she thought they needed to be there. Fitz agreed.
They all smiled when Olivia walked in the house. Abby let her know that Takisha & Carola were almost ready for her. David had hired a team to take care of the rest of the ladies.
Abby smiled, "How are you feeling this morning?"
Olivia grinned, "I have never been happier."
"Any nerves?"
"None. I can't wait to be Mrs. Grant. I finally get to marry my soulmate, and I get two great kids in the process."
Karen smiled, "Well we get a great mom as well. I can't wait for dad to see his gift tonight."
"It was the least I could do, and I am glad that you and Teddy helped me with it."
"Our first of many family projects. I can wait until there is a little Pope-Grant running around. Although they will probably show us up with those Pope-Grant genes."
Quinn laughed, "No doubt. Some little genius running around."
Olivia got quiet.
Abby grabbed her hand, "What's wrong Liv? Where did you go?"
She shrugged her shoulder, and turned away from Karen.
Karen looked at her stepmom.
Olivia quietly said, "I want kids. I didn't realize how much I wanted them until I took from him which is why I want kids even more from him. It is the least I can do. He deserves that."
All the ladies had tears in their eyes as they listened to the pain in Olivia's voice.
Abby made her look at her, "Do you know the one thing I learned about Fitz when I was his Chief of Staff that I never knew before?"
Olivia shook her head.
"How much that man loves you! More importantly, I saw how much you love him. I understand why you ran, because you were never taught that you had the right to be loved. I am so glad that you know that now. Fitz might not have been happy with all your decisions, but I know that he never once thought you were to blame for Jerry. I also know that when he found out about the abortion he was never angry with you. I know that he was hurt, but not for the reasons you think. He was hurt that he put you in the position that you had to make that choice. The hurt is over. Sure you might have some hard times, but you will get through it because you are together."
Olivia just hugged Abby, and the two shared a special moment. Everyone smiled, because they were all happy to see the pair fix their broken relationship. It was now officially time to get ready.
Olivia smiled when she walked into her room where Takisha and Carola were waiting for her. She had not seen them in almost two years. She did use a team to get ready when she went out with Fitz for formal events. She didn't really have a lot of those events right now so she didn't use them so she was thrilled when they agreed to be here for her on her big day.
She invited them to her rehearsal dinner, and they talked for a few minutes, but she spent a little more time catching up with the women while getting ready. They were more than her hair and make-up. They were her friends. She felt like she owed them an explanation. Although they disagreed they let her tell them what had happened, and it was water under the bridge. Olivia wouldn't need them as often in the future, but they agreed to get together at least once a month just to catch up. They were all hopeful that Olivia would have a baby they would get to spoil in time. They loved Teddy, and both had children his age so he loved that he got new friends.
The ladies walked into the room where Olivia was getting ready in. Olivia was giddy as each of them walk into the room.
She had selected for them to wear a coral full-length lace. The dress featured a shoulder neckline and scoop back.
It was time for Olivia to get dressed so they could meet for pictures. She thought that she was calm before, but now that the time was near she realized that she was more than calm. She was at peace that she was about to walk down the aisle and become Mrs. Fitzgerald Thomas Grant III.
When she stepped out the room everyone stopped talking. The only one who had gotten to see her wedding dress was David and Karen.
Olivia was wearing an Anne Barge gown. The Adele gown was a fill A-line gown with a sheer high neckline and shirred bodice with metallic embroidered skirt. For the ceremony she kept her hair in her natural state, and pulled it up in a bun and it was adorned with pearl hair pins.
There was not a dry eye in the room.
It was time to give Olivia her last accessories before they headed out.
Karen walked over with her something old. "This was passed down to me from my grandmother. I decided I wanted this to be your something old, and in the future, I look forward to you passing this down to me as my something old when I find my soul mate."
With Takisha's help they attached her veil. It was a classic veil with Alencon lace along the edge. It made the flowers around the edge look like they were floating.
Ella walked over, "Uncle Fitz purchased this as your something new. He said he purchased it because it features seven princess cut diamonds. Seven is the number of completion in the bible, and today you will complete him."
She assisted Olivia with putting on the princess cut diamond bracelet that featured seven princess cut diamonds. It was surrounded with micropave diamonds. She also noticed the bracelet was inter-spaced with infinity styled links. It reminded her of her ring which was still on her index finger.
Quinn walked over with her something borrowed. She said, "Fitz said one night when the two of you were on the trail, and you talked about getting married you pointed to these earrings online, and said these would be the earrings you would want to wear. He kept that page bookmarked, and made sure that you got to wear them today."
Olivia could not believe that he not only recalled their conversation, but held onto the page all these years. Quinn put in the pair of pear shaped diamond dangle earrings. They were handcrafted in platinum. They featured two one carat pear shaped diamond centers, and were surrounded by a double halo of micropave diamonds.
Abby walked over with her something blue, "Although you have been a family for some time today it becomes official. I didn't always support your relationship, and it took some time for me to understand that what the two of you have is priceless. What Teddy, Karen, and your future children get are two of the most wonderful people I know. I am glad to call you my best friend. Without you I probably wouldn't be here, and I can never thank you for saving my life. When I saw this ring, I thought it was the perfect symbol of what is about to take place."
Olivia agreed as she looked at the ring. It was a three stone Isola ring that featured sapphires and was surrounded by diamonds. The largest sapphire in the middle represented the couple with Teddy, and Karen representing the small sapphire.
Olivia slid the ring on and hugged her best friend, "I love you, and I am glad that you are here. Not just today, but for all the great moments that we will have."
Abby nodded, "Me too…"
The hair and makeup team came in, and touched the ladies up before David came in the room to escort them to take pictures.
David walked over, "I think this should complete you, and we can take you to the groom."
She smiled as she looked at her bouquet. It was a classic bouquet of white lilies of the valley, stephanotis, and sweet peas.
"It is perfect David. Thank you."
"You are more than welcome. Let's get you out of here."
Olivia was assisted out. She expected the golf cart to take her over to the location they chose to take their pictures, but she was shocked to find a white horse and carriage waiting for her.
David smiled, "Your fiancée insisted…"
A few moments later they pulled up to where they wanted to take pictures. It was near their man-made lake, and some of the orchards were nearby. As requested Fitz was turned around until she made her way over to him.
When David turned him around he was speechless. He couldn't stop the tears from falling. He had countless dreams about this day, and none of it measured up to this moment. She looked like an angel in white. She was his angel, and he was about to make sure that everyone knew it.
She became emotional looking at him. There were so many things that she wanted to say, but she said the only thing that came to mind in that moment, "Hi..."
Fitz smiled through his tears. Also, unable to form any sentences. None felt sufficient. He finally looked her in the eyes, and said, "Hi…"
A/N-I am stopping there. I have done weddings and receptions for most of my stories, and I do my research. For this one I wanted it to be perfect. It is all about capturing what we got a glimpse of on that 100th episode.
Some of you who don't watch Scandal anymore, but have seen the episode or scenes online. For those few who have not I kept the hairstyle the same, but changed the veil. I kept the gown designer the same, but selected a different gown from the 100th episode.
I decided to use Kerry's go to team for her big day. I have some spectacular things planned for ceremony and reception. I hope you guys are excited as I am.
Check out all the pictures I posted for this update on my Twitter account kimberl17711667.