AN: I'm so sorry for the lack of updates on this story. This chapter was meant to come up on December 2nd unfortunately, I suffered a memory loss before I could do so. It was only yesterday that I regained my memory and was kin on posting this story ASAP, its almost 1 am, and I'm finalizing it.

I'm doing my best so that chapter 12 be posted no later than Saturday evening. Surprise me with your reviews and you might be rewarded by Chapter 13 the same day. The more the reviews, the sooner you'll get them!

I'd like to thank all those who took the time and review. I haven't had time to read all the reviews, but, once I do, I'll try my best to answer all of them as soon as I can. Your reviews are amazing and very encouraging. So, keep them up!

Without any further ado, Chapter 11.

DISCLAIMER: I own nothing. Scandal and its characters belong to Shonda Rhimes and ABC/Disney

6am The Hampton's, New York

Today was the day he'd have to face the music. He couldn't escape it any longer. Today, he was going to face the aftermath of his divorce. Cause today, he had a family reunion. He knew it was something that was needed. He knew he had to get this over with else they wouldn't leave him alone. He knew he couldn't avoid them forever. He also knew he was the one to call the family meeting in an email last Friday. But that didn't mean that it didn't make him any less anxious.

This last two weeks had been a bliss. He and the kids had come to grow closer as a family. Time away was exactly what they all needed. The kids got to see that the divorce wouldn't change their dad for the worst. It also showed them that even with everything that was going on he was still there for them and they were his priority. That was something that he thought they should know before the campaign begun and their lives would be forever changed. For him, this time away made him even more sure that his decision had been the correct one. He got to see his kids carefree and happy. Seeing them that way made him happy.

Even if they were happy, he knew that the divorce had changed the twins. He just hoped that after this time, they wouldn't shut him out. He didn't want them to close themselves to the world. He thought that this little vacation gave them time to start healing even if he knew they were forever changed. He was thankful Liv had suggested he take the children away for a while. It looked like it was exactly what they needed.

He couldn't help but wonder if her parents had gone through a divorce seeing how she knew the kids would blame themselves for their parents' failed marriage. It had taken him nearly 3 hours to convince them that they had nothing to do with the situation they were currently in. He made a mental note to ask her about it and but her a gift to show his gratitude for her suggestion.

Speaking of Liv, he was anxious to see her. Sure they'd spoken over the phone everyday for the duration of his vacation but, it wouldn't be the same. The were going to be in the same room, sharing the same air. The thought made him eager to go home. He couldn't believe how easy it had been to speak to Liv. It felt like she understood. The conversations were carefree, like they had known each other their entire lives. Liv was different from anyone he'd met his entire life. He felt like he could be himself with her without being judged. Speaking to her made him want to know her more and want her in his life even more. He didn't know how yet but, he'd make sure that Olivia Pope was part of his life.

He shared breakfast with Karen and Keith and it felt amazing. Like a really family. Unlike the breakfast they'd shared with Mellie. This one, the kids seemed willing to engage in the conversation and not leave the table. He hoped they could always enjoy meals like that. Like a family.

Today, was their last breakfast on vacation. They. Would be breaking their little bubble and rejoining the real world. He just hoped that they wouldn't shut him out once they were back and the press started attacking them. Thinking of the press, he hoped he could shield the kids from the ruthless journalists. They'd already endured enough. He didn't want them scrutinized. He wanted then to enjoy their lives and not worry about how what they do would be seen by the media. He'd had to endure that and he didn't want his kids to go through that. They hadn't chosen that life, he had. They didn't have to suffer because of a choice that he'd made.

Seeing the kids put their plates in the dishwasher, he made a silent pledge That he'd do everything in his power to ensure they had breakfast and/or diner as often as they could and that in the eventuality they couldn't he'd make sure they had their favorites and he called. Seeing them made him realize he hadn't totally screwed his entire life. He'd told the kids to be ready by 6.30 as their flight would be leaving at 7 to make sure they were in Santa Barbara in time for the family reunion around lunch.

He took a deep breath as they boarded the waiting cab. He knew their time alone was over and it was time to face the press he was sure would be camped at the ranch mostly since everyone would start coming around 10. So, by the time they would land, the ranch would be at the ranch. He would also have to deal with Cyrus who he had ignored the entire time he was gone. It was time to face the music: welcome back to the real world also known as media hell.

Washington DC

Olivia couldn't help but grin at the thought that in a few hours, she'd be seeing Fitz again. She couldn't recognize herself. Never had she that she Olivia Pope would one time be grinning like an idiot at the simple fact of seeing a guy. She didn't know why but she found she couldn't help herself but smile.

Huck had teased her that she was under a spell 'cause he'd never seen her like that. It was nice to see her like this. She'd been through so much, she deserved to be happy for a change. One of the first things he'd noticed in her were her sad eyes. Even though some sadness still remained, he could tell she was happier since she met Fitz and mostly after their night long phone call.

Now he had to make sure that the Governor didn't hurt Liv. He owed her hid life and couldn't bear to see her hurt. She was there for him when he least expected it. So, he'd be there. So, if being there for her meant to ensure that the one person she'd allowed herself to open up romantically in nearly 9 years didn't hurt her by all means he'd do.

Since Liv had told him to concentrate on Abby, he hadn't been able to finish the background check on Mellie. And with setting up the computer system at OPA so he could be able to access it even on the trail. He was adamant on staying with Liv all along. He couldn't bear the thought of something happening to her and he wasn't there to protect her.

He didn't know if he'd be able to live with himself if something did indeed happen. Besides, he had a feeling something bad might happen to her, so, he was more protective than he usually was. He couldn't explain it but, he felt it in his gut that something might happen.

Liv hated it when he became so overprotective over her. It was bad enough with her dad, she didn't need another person treating her like a child who couldn't take care of herself. She didn't want him like that, she could protect herself, she'd done great so far. But, she also knew there was no way out of it. But at least Huck was better than having secret service with you 24/7. Also, she needed her best friend if she was to explore whatever rit was that was between Fitz and herself so that she wouldn't mess up. This was a first for her and she didn't want to screw it up. But since they were due back today, Huck figured he would resume his background check. Lucky for him, there wasn't that much left to look into.

Liv on the other hand was killing herself with the preparation of the interview that Fitz was to have in a week. As the perfectionist that she was, she wanted everything to run smoothly. So, she anticipated every single question possible. Even if she hadn't had much time to concentrate on the interview because of Abby and OPA, she was determined to do her best. So, the entire plane ride, was her coming up with question after question and possible answers.

Liv was glad to have Abby back, even though she knew it would take a while for them to get back the friendship they once had and if they got it back. She had changed, she wasn't sure if things with Abby would be the same. But, she needed to be there for her friend. She knew how it felt like not to have anyone there for you and she didn't wish that on anybody. It's in moments like these that she was really thankful to have met Huck. He was the one that had shown her that she could have people there for her and not end up broken-hearted. Even if her life was changing, she hoped she'd always have Huck there with her cause, although he was a pain in the ass sometimes, in more ways than one, he was the reason she was alive today.

Grant Ranch, Santa Barbara- California

As Fitz had anticipated, the ranch was full of press once they got wind that there would be a family gathering at the Grants. It started when Henry, who was always early, arrived at the airport at 9 in the morning but, the press didn't make it an issue until his grandpa, uncles and aunts showed up at the airport in a group of 7. He'd gotten a call from Javier, their butler, that the place was full of press in a text. So, as he boarded his car, he checked the Internet to see what was being said.

The Grant Clan regrouping?

After a radio silence from the family after Governor Grant of California announced his divorce 2 weeks ago, it looks like the Grant-Ford-Lauder clan is regrouping. This morning, members if the family were seen arriving at the airport and heading to the Grant Ranch starting by Henry Ford who arrived around 9am. The Governor is to arrive soon with his children from New York where they'd been since his press conference.

The family, like the Governor himself, did not wish to answer questions about the divorce. We might also want to remember that Governor Grant of California announced two weeks ago that he'd be divorcing his wife of nearly 15 years. Fitzgerald Grant III is also aspiring to be the Republican nominee for the presidential race next year. To say the least, his sudden outburst, shortly after saying that he would be running for office, shocked many and left most wondering if there was more than met the eye in the Grant marriage.

May I also remind you that no one has ever been elected President of the United States unmarried. So, by divorcing his wife, Grant is committing what political analysts are calling a 'political suicide'.

But, the question on everybody's lips right now is: what happened that made Grant risk his future by divorcing his wife? Rumors of affairs have surfaced since the announcement. However, no one is sure of the real reason behind the Grant divorce. We also remind you that nothing has been heard for Millicent 'Mellie' Grant soon to be Lancaster.

So, I guess the only way to know what really happened to the Grant marriage, is to wait for the hour-long interview that shall be held at the Grant residence in a week. If you have any questions you wish the Governor to respond to, please submit the to us.

A mutual response from the Grants?

It looks that after 2 weeks of complete silence, the Grants are ready to answer to the press. Members of the family were seen arriving at the airport this morning for what seems like a family meeting. We can't help but wonder if we'll only be getting one reaction from the Grants about Governor Grant's divorce of his wife of 15 years.

The Grants are one of the most powerful and influential families in the country. And to say the least, news of the pending divorce shocked many mostly since it's the first in the family. But, what shocked the most was that no reason for the divorce was given to the press.

After his shocking press conference 2 weeks ago, Fitzgerald Grant III headed to New York with his two children, Karen and Keith, where they've been for the last two weeks and did not address the press in any way. It just seemed that they enjoyed spending time together as a family like can be seen in the picture of the three of them having a picnic in Central park.

The other important question is: who will get custody of the children? If by any chance Grant wins the White House, it might be problematic to share share custody between DC and California if Mellie Grant is indeed remaining in California and not going back to her home state, North Carolina. One thing is for sure, the Grant divorce will be making history.

Four Seasons

Upon landing, Liv was shocked at how fast the press had gotten wind of the coming family reunion. She knew of it 'cause Fitz had told her that he sent an email to all his family saying that the ones who had questions about his divorce were welcomed at the ranch for a family meeting where they could ask whatever question there was that they needed to ask. She had encouraged him with that idea. She'd been keeping tabs on him to see what she could do. To say she was really shocked when upon her landing she received about 20 notifications if articles about Fitz was an understatement.

But, she was thankful that they weren't trashing Fitz too badly. But, she made sure to note that one of the first things they had to do was clear all rumors of an affair cause that seemed like a major issue. She also still needed to come up with a way to incorporate Fitz's new status in the family values he was running on. That, she knew would be difficult, after all, Fitz was a Republican so the idea of a young divorced president with a tendency to be liberal didn't go well with the base. So, during the campaign, they had to target the new generation of Republicans to balance the base.

She'd received a call from Fitz's lawyer who said that the family court said that the paper work was correctly filled and they had no problem with it. They were also told that given the high profile of the Grants the paper work would be hurried and they should be officially divorced by Friday. So, that was something off her list. Now she had to concentrate on the interview and the campaign. It was going to be a hectic August month.

Grant Ranch, Santa Barbara-California

The Grants arrive at the ranch at 11 and decide to go for a nap but told Carla, the maid, to wake them up in half an hour. The rest of the family arrives as a group around11:45. Fitz and the kids are there to welcome everyone at the door. They say hi to everyone.

"Kids, take your cousins and go play in the playroom. And tell Javier to prepare you some food. The adults need to have a serious conversation." The kids complied and went as their dad said.

"If everyone would like to follow me, I think we should head to the living room." Fitz says. He's surprised his father is not there to gloat on how he'd been right all those years. But figures that since he's his highness Big Gerry Grant, he had yo make a big entrance.

"Wow! You've made quite some changes in the since I've been here."says Nancy Grant, Fitz's aunt.

"Yeah, well, with the divorce and all, we decided we needed to make some changes around the house."he says. "Do you guys want anything to drink? I suggest we talk first then proceed with lunch."

"I wouldn't mind a drink."said Henry.

"Okay. I'll tell Javier to bring drinks then."

He went and told their butler about the drinks. Within a few minutes they all had drinks and ready to talk.

"So," says Fitz sitting up after ensuring that everyone had a drink and he had his own. "I assume you all have questions as regards to my marriage. I say ask away. I am here to answer to all questions you might have."

"I think it'd best if you told us what happened that made you change so drastically. I mean, a moment you call us all saying you'll be running for office bug didn't tell us you planned on getting a divorce. So I assume that that came after your announcement. And, you didn't even have the curtsy of calling us to give us the heads up. I mean, I had yo hear about the divorce from reporters who ambushed me asking for a comment. I mean, we knew your marriage wasn't a walk in the park but didn't know it was this bad." says Kathleen a bit angry and hurt.

Of all his aunts, Kathleen Ford was the closest to Fitz. She felt betrayed when her dear nephew didn't tell her about the situation. She assumed that since he announced that he was running that they were working on their marriage. So, for her hearing about his divorce from the press came as a shock and hurt as she felt she had a good relationship with Fitz, but, apparently not. That's why she didn't call. But now that she thought about it, maybe it was for the best. If she had and he hadn't answered, she didn't know what she would have done. After all, she did have a temper.

All the others hummed in approval. Fitz took a deep breath and told them what happened. He left out the part about Mellie aborting their child and cheating on him. Although she was the number one person he wanted in his life right now or even ever, she still remained the mother of his children and he didn't want his family hating her more than they already did. Besides, knowing his family, if he told them the truth, Mellie would be homeless within few hours of that knowledge. And, he didn't want the kids resenting him in the future when they decided they wanted a relationship with her and she would be left without a thing because of him.

Even if he wanted to strangle her right now, he still had to protect her, for his children's sake. It felt like he had let them down somehow. And on that morning after his talk with Karen, he vowed never to do that again, and to always put them first. So, him kitchen telling his family the whole truth and Sean ridiculous, was him putting them first.

"So, let me get this straight, after 15 years of marriage, you decided to divorce in a day?" says Lisa Grant, Fitz's younger cousin.

"Yes." was the only thing Fitz said.

"And, you only did that because your 12-years-old daughter told you she didn't believe in marriage anymore?"

"And you didn't cheat on her?" Fitz rolled his eyes at her. He should've expected that question. But, having it coming from a family member was a deep cut.

"Of course not. I would never cheat. You all know that."

"Of course. We know that. But, I'm just trying to wrap my mind around that. So, if I get this straight, Karen told you she no longer believed in marriage and you decided you should get divorced. And Mellie agreed to the divorce and to a settlement that was lower than your prenup just like that? Without a fuss? Are we talking about the same Mellie?"

"Yes. Yes. And yes. Why don't you believe me?"

"It's just that I believe there is more to that story."

Fitz was about to answer to that when the door swung open. "It's good to see that my idiotic son finally grew up and decided that I was right after years." seeing the surprised look on everyone's face he said "You didn't really believe that after all this time I would have missed the opportunity to tell my do-the-right-thing-always and forever-the-good-guy son that I was right all those years?"

Fitz rolled his eyes. He wasn't really surprised that his father showed UK to gloat. It was common knowledge that Big Gerry would take whatever opportunity he got to undermine his son. He rolled his eyes. He was about to receive the full presentation on how his father was right and he was wrong. The worst is that for once Fitz thought that maybe his father was right.

"It's good to see you still care enough about me to show up. Father. Even if we all know that you're here as an opportunity for a photo op. Otherwise, you wouldn't be here. Ow, you even brought your wife, it's good to see that you two still stand each other even if it's only in public and haven't killed each other yet." he said finally seeing that his mother was also there. Needless to say that the relationship between Fitz and his parents, themselves, was beyond tense.

Meanwhile in the playroom

The kids had been playing at the play station. There were around 8 children besides Karen and Keith in the room. All of them were boys and around the same age. After a round of the game, when they were switching to let the others play, 14.5 year-old Nicolas Lauder, the twins' older cousin spoke up.

"So, are you excited that your parents are divorcing?"

"Excited? Why should we be excited?" said Karen a little agitated by Nicolas' comment.

"Well, you guys get to live in 2 houses. And have double of everything you own. But that must suck considering you get to live with your mom. Your dad is way cooler."

"We are not living with mother, we're going to live with dad. And, we don't get to live in 2 houses, dad said that we will only live with him and get to see mother once a month if we want to." replied Keith defensively. Something about them living solely with their mother bothered immensely.

"Oww. Ok. So, will you guys be seeing your mother this month?"

"We haven't really talked about it."

"Will you dad like... I don't know... start dating again?" asked 12 year-old Tyler Grant their other cousin.

"I don't know. But I thin so. However if it happens, that won't be until after the campaign. With the campaign, he won't have time to date." replied Keith.

"Won't it be like... weird to see your dad on a date?" it was 13 year-old Christopher "Chris" Ford's turn to ask the question.

"I don't know. But, I think the most important thing is that our dad is happy. And if whoever he dates makes him happy and doesn't hurt him then I should okay with it I guess."

"But, what if your dad dates someone you guys hate?" asked 12 year-old Matthew "Matt" Grant.

"Dad said that when he starts dating, he'll tell us first. And he said that if we song like who he's dating, he wouldn't continue dating them." came Keith's reply.

The kids asked other questions before moving on to other subject, game talk, until Javier came with their lunch.

For the adults, the rest of the afternoon and lunch were spent in an awkward silence. The tension between father and son was palpable. After what had to be the weirdest lunch ever, Fitz's family left, leaving him alone with the kids. Once everyone left, he called Liv like he'd told her he would. After what he had endured he needed to see Liv. Besides, he hadn't seen her in 2 weeks. Their daily phone call wouldn't be able to do it knowing that they were in the same city.

AN: What do you think? Don't forget, the more you review, the sooner you'll get chapter 12 and 13.

- I know, our favorite couple wasn't really in this chapter much, but, I'm getting there. They should get to it pretty soon. Just a few things to get out of the way!

- What do you think of the family?

- What's the deal between Fitz and his dad? his dad and mom?

- How do you like the kids' reaction?

- Do you want more of the family? Who in particular?

- Coming up; Fitz and Liv reunite.

- The background check

- Cyrus and Fitz, the reaction

- More of Liv's past.