Breaking News.
For visual purposes:
Morris Chestnut as President Briggs.
Trevante Rhodes as Leon Armani.
X
The black leather sofa comforts Olivia, who sits tall, fixing the lapel of her grey blazer. Her curls sit perfectly on her shoulders, her smile is genuine, and the look in her eyes says growth. It's been a hectic few months, but for the first time in a long time, Olivia feels like a better version of herself again, which is all she wanted.
Opposite Olivia is her and Fitz's shared therapist, Dr. Kaufman, a brilliant woman who helped the couple through the issues within their relationship from start to now and their problems within themselves as separate entities. The woman is patient, passionate, caring, and, best of all, a beautiful human who understands.
After taking some notes on Olivia's posture, Kaufman sets her notebook aside and smiles.
"Well, Olivia. After months of therapy, you've finally made it to the end. Tell me. How do you feel?"
There's a slight pause in Olivia's answer, taking a moment to think about the question. How does she feel?
"I feel like I accomplished everything I sought to accomplish. Not only as a couple with Fitz but as an individual." A smile.
"I was constantly drowning in layers of trauma, neglect, and mixed emotions. Those feelings woke something up inside me, sending me into a spiral and making me lose sight of the person I wanted to become." Her gaze cuts to the window.
"But now, sitting here, I can honestly say that I am the Olivia Pope I was always meant to be. Olivia Grant-Pope, for specifics." A laugh.
Kaufman chuckles, crossing one leg over the other. The difference in Olivia is astounding. The formidable woman now stands tall in the light on her own, letting Kaufman know that the uphill battles Olivia faced have been conquered.
"I'm proud of you, Olivia. I know the fight within yourself was a difficult battle, and I must say, unfiltered happiness looks good on you."
A smile. "Thank you."
"You're welcome. Now, I would like to ask you about your relationship." A swift topic change. "I had my session with Fitz before yours, as you know, and I want to know how you feel about the status of your relationship. Are you happy?"
Olivia's smile becomes a full-fledged grin, and her gaze drops to the ring on her finger. Seeing it reminds her of the fairytale of Fitz's proposal.
"I am." Her gaze returns to Kaufman. "I think he and I needed therapy to move forward more healthily. There were a lot of black holes within our relationship that pulled us in different directions, but in the end, we returned to one another better than ever." A truth.
"I don't feel the need to run away anymore. Fitz is home for me. I realize that now."
A smile. "There's never a wrong time to have those realizations. As a black woman, to be exact, we're supposed to have it all figured out, but it's hard."
"It's so hard, and I don't think many people understand that." A chuckle. "There were times when Fitz didn't, but his awareness kicked in more and more as time passed."
"Do you feel he understands how you want to be understood?"
Good question. "I do. Fitz does. We're on steady ground with our relationship, which is all I could ask for."
Kaufman chuckles. "He said the same thing."
"Can't say I'm surprised." A smile. "He's been adamant about us breaking the shackles of our past to better our future."
"Being on the same page is imperative for this journey, specifically the part of your journey with him." She continues.
"It's not easy bouncing back from a relationship that was inescapably forbidden and a little toxic at times, but you and Fitz succeeded in doing so, proving to each other and yourselves that some things are worth fighting for."
Olivia never thought she'd be at this place with Fitz. For so long, she felt undeserving of love like Fitz's. She was constantly fighting the inevitable and never reaping the benefits. It took years for her to accept that being loved isn't bad, nor does it come with fine print explaining how to navigate the storm.
Now, Olivia can relish the moment and stand beside Fitz in the light. She's still the Olivia Pope she sought to be in both her personal life and career, and although she may not be at the end of her journey, Olivia knows she's on the right path to see her name written in lights with the rest of the greats.
Olivia smiles. "I couldn't agree more."
"Now, this last question is one you couldn't answer a few weeks ago." Shifting topics once again. "With your head above the water, can you speak about your miscarriage and how the loss affected you?"
Olivia swallows hard, her gaze wandering around the room before focusing on Kaufman. She straightens her blazer and expels a deep breath. She's ready.
"Yes," Olivia confirms. "When it first happened, I thought the universe was punishing me. I thought that everything I did had come back to bite negatively. I thought that my life was over." She continues.
"I thought the one thing I could do would never be possible. I couldn't give the man I love a child, and because of that, I fell into a pit of depression where I felt nothing but endless nothingness." A pause, recollecting herself.
"I felt I had lost my purpose and will to be a mom. Then therapy happened, and I realized that it was a blessing. Not because I lost my bundle of joy, but because I wasn't ready to be a mother yet."
Kaufman nods, taking note of Olivia's relaxed posture. "Care to elaborate on that last part? Why did you think you weren't ready to be a mother?"
"Because I never had one." She smiles, though pained. "Before we mended our relationship, I was only an achievement to her. A puppet. Our interactions were transactional instead of intentional, and she let me believe a lie — a series of them." She continues.
"I never had the chance to be free, nor did I have a chance to make my own decisions without being chastised and punished. It felt like a dictatorship instead of a family, and in the long run, it ruined me." She explains, expelling a sigh.
"I was wired to be the opposite of who I wanted to be, and yes, I did great work — still do, but it costs me more than I had to give."
"And now?"
"Now." A smile. "Now I realize I can be a mother, and if I get to bear a child again, I will give him, her, or them the love and care I never received."
Olivia's confidence shines through, and Kaufman takes note of her demeanor. The fixer doesn't seem shackled to the pain of her loss anymore, though she will never forget. Instead, she speaks of a better outcome, and Kaufman can't hide the proudness creeping onto her visage. Olivia has grown tremendously.
Hearing Olivia's struggles in life have been an emotional rollercoaster for both her and Kaufman. Her family, fears, doubts, regrets, relationship, and losing her child have opened Kaufman's eyes to a bigger picture. Olivia is a human being behind the glitz and glam, cases, and closed doors.
All Olivia wants is a chance to live life without regrets. A chance to live without being chastised, belittled, and shamed for the decisions she chooses to make. Olivia deserves that chance to stand in the light with the people she loves most, including herself. And now, she'll have the opportunity to be the real Olivia Carolyn Grant-Pope.
Kaufman removes her glasses, placing them on the sandy wood coffee table beside her. With a smile, she leans forward with one last question in mind.
"Now that you've climbed the hill and reached the top without being deterred by obstacles, what's next, Olivia?"
The answer is simple. "Whatever I want."
xxx
Life in Vermont has been nothing short of perfect. The darkness that had once surrounded Fitz is a distant memory in the rearview. He's happy and in love, and every scar he received from fighting the war that is D.C. has healed. The light is no longer a metaphorical hourglass running out of time. It is a reality. One he's happy he achieved.
The past few months have been a blur, in a good way. He's gotten closer to Olivia, his lovely wife, found solace in having a normal life, perfected the art of balancing work and personal, and completed couples therapy, something he and Olivia decided after solidifying their marriage. Now, there's nothing but sun over the horizon.
Unlike Olivia, Fitz completed his last session remotely, having his foundation business to take care of and house upkeep. It was a success. For the first time, Fitz spoke freely about his past suicide attempt, the feelings it brought on and how it affected him, his relationship with Olivia, his trials and tribulations, and his son Jerry Jr.
He spoke clearly of how Jerry Jr. would disapprove of him taking his own life and would most likely chastise him for the rest of eternity. When it came to Olivia, he expressed how their journey opened his eyes to the reality of what the couple wanted, not the fantasy, and how much they've grown to become one.
As for his suicide attempt, he made it abundantly clear that he didn't blame Olivia for leaving in his time of need, for they were both victims of circumstance and Eli Pope, amongst other things. Fitz also informed Kaufman of his lack of mourning. He couldn't be normal, for he was running the country, which pained him.
His one regret was that he didn't take the necessary time to process his son's death, which led to his suicide attempt. He picked himself up and used those emotions to reel the American people in, and if he could take it back, he would do so in a heartbeat if it meant he could be a better example for his family and himself.
It was a freeing experience, and Kaufman allowed him to be open without judgment, fear, or shame. For the past few months, she was Fitz's confidant, and now he can use what he learned to remain on the right track, so he's in a position to be a much better friend, man, and husband. He's grateful for the opportunity.
Now, he wanders from bedroom to bedroom, replacing the bedsheets with fresh ones. He's gotten used to being a stay-at-home husband, for the break from work allows him to focus on other aspects of his life, like Olivia, learning to be a tad more functional, and cooking. He's not as good as his wife, but the food is edible for the most part.
As he finishes fixing up the last bed of the house, his cell phone ringing in the distance attracts his attention. He deposits the dirty sheets into the clothes bin and heads to the kitchen, answering his phone with a smile.
"Cyrus. Don't tell me you burnt the place down." Referring to the foundation.
"No, sir." A laugh. "Not yet."
The response earns a laugh from Fitz. "Is everything okay? How are you? How are things?"
"I am good, sir. The foundation is doing excellent, and with every day that passes, a new case comes — some bigger than others, but we've been handling it."
"Good. I'm glad. Sorry, I can't be there for all the fun."
"No apologies necessary. You have a new priority now and want to do everything to ensure Liv's okay after everything."
Cyrus's understanding prompts a smile on Fitz's visage as he occupies one of the stools at the counter, his left elbow resting against the marble countertop.
"We appreciate that, Cy." Shoulders relaxing. "So, anything I need to be worried about?"
He cuts to the chase. "Teenagers of color have been protesting against the public school system for almost a month because of racial misconduct."
"And why haven't we taken this on?"
"We've been swamped with so many cases that it must've gotten lost. I'm sorry, sir."
"Don't apologize. I'll get the word out while I'm here in Vermont. Get the people talking about it again." Leaning forward over the counter.
"Once my announcement is made, you need to contact Ryan; see if he can help. How is he, by the way?"
"Right away, sir." Silence ensues. "I haven't spoken to him since we were together in Vermont. He's not answering anyone's calls."
"I see." A nod. "Well, if you contact him, let me know. If not, plans will still move forward."
"Of course." He's curious. "And will you be joining us? Or will this be another remote situation?"
"I'll have to speak to Olivia about that. With everything that happened, I want to ensure she's okay before anything."
"Understandable. Keep me posted, and send the lady my love."
"Will do, Cy."
The call ends, and Fitz tosses his phone aside on the counter. In the distance, he can see Olivia tending to her garden, so he decides to visit her now that she's had time to decompress after her last therapy session. He quickly stands and strides toward the side of the house.
He watches her through the glass with a smile. Olivia taking up gardening was unexpected, but Fitz loves seeing her in her element. His wife is at peace and smiling, and that's all he could ask for. He knocks on the glass and departs to join her by the apple trees.
"They're looking good." He slips his hands into his pockets, taking in the beauty of the apples. "Have you tried one yet?"
"I was hoping you would." A smile, clipping one down and holding it out to him. "And be honest."
He takes the apple. "I always am."
Olivia chuckles, and Fitz follows suit before he bites into the apple. It's the perfect amount of sweetness and crunch. So good, he expels a delighted hum.
"You could sell these in stores, woman."
"Are you being funny?" Her gaze narrows. "I have a weapon in my hand."
"My wife is an assassin. Good to know."
Silence ensues between them before they fall into a spell of laughter. Fitz's comedic timing has gotten better. Olivia likes that. She drops the tool into the basket near her feet and approaches Fitz, wrapping her arms around his waist, which he reciprocates.
"How are you?" She inquires. "Was your final session good? Dr. Kaufman mentioned you."
"I'm good. Happy. At peace." The truth. "The moment our session finished, the weight on my shoulders fell. I never felt freer. So, yes, it was a wonderful session. How about you?"
Her chin rests against his chest, browns focusing on his blues. "I've never felt better. I was plagued by so many circumstances that I never truly felt I could live a normal life. But after speaking to Kaufman, she restored my hope."
Olivia smiles afterward, a genuine smile that illuminates her eyes. Fitz is proud of her; Olivia can feel it even without words. Still, that doesn't stop him from pecking her lips a few times, gently holding her closer to him.
"I'm proud of you, Olivia. I know I tell you that often, but I mean it. Not a day goes by where I don't admire your strength, courage, and resilience." A smile.
"You've always stood tall. And without the chains keeping you grounded, you can finally soar to even greater heights."
His words mean a lot to her, and though she can say a million things to express that, she keeps it simple with her favorite three.
"I love you."
A smile. "And I love you."
Olivia kisses him one last time, her hands exploring his broad shoulders and biceps, much bigger than they were a few months ago before ending the embrace. After all, she has a garden to attend to.
"So, was that Cyrus who called?" Olivia steps over her coat, heels, and purse to grab the basket of apples, moving it down a few feet.
Surprise consumes his visage. "You have a good ear."
"That, and he's the only one who calls you daily at this time." A chuckle. "It's not hard to notice."
Her words make Fitz laugh as he follows her, taking the basket to carry as Olivia resumes snipping her apples.
"Yeah, that was Cyrus. He informed me about the current status of the foundation as well as himself." Then he remembers. "He also said he hadn't spoken to Ryan in months. Have you?"
"I haven't, no." She plucks a green apple into the basket. "I tried, but he hasn't gotten back to me, so I'm giving him his space." A smile. "What did Cyrus say? Any new cases?"
He nods. "Plenty, but one, in particular, may take me out of Vermont. Teenagers of color have been protesting for months now regarding racial misconduct."
"I see." She turns to face him. "When do you leave?"
Her question throws Fitz for a loop. "Are you trying to get rid of me?" He teases.
"Maybe." A chuckle. "I'm kidding. I'm not trying to get rid of you, but you signed up for this. You have a job and can't continue to do it from here."
"I know." And he does. "I just —"
"You don't have to worry about me, Fitz. The darkness came, and like everything, it passed. I've mourned, cried, fallen, and now I'm back on my feet." She steps toward him, free hand resting against his cheek.
"Life didn't stop when I lost the baby. Life gave me another chance to have everything I've ever hoped for, and right now, I have everything I need."
Though tears well in Olivia's eyes, they aren't of sadness but joy. She's content with where she is currently, and should a time come when the universe blesses her with the chance to be a mother again, she'll rise to the occasion.
"I'll have a chance at being a mother again, but you, your job, you only have one shot, Fitz, and I don't want you to miss out on those moments because you're worried about me. I'm okay. I'm better than okay, and I want you to know that."
Fitz receives Olivia's words, and the growth warms his heart. To hear her speak so candidly about the miscarriage is so beautiful it brings tears to his eyes. With a smile, he kisses her palm and nods, which is his subtle way of acknowledging her feelings and agreeing.
"Okay. I'll do it." He tells her. "And if you need anything, anything at all, don't hesitate to call."
"You know I won't." She smiles, retracting her hand. "Now, let's finish picking these apples. I do want to make an apple pie before you go."
Fitz chuckles. "I'm right behind you."
xxx
QPA is officially back and better than ever. More clientele, more exposure. It's a dream come true. No longer hidden in the shadows, it's become a focal point for people who need assistance. The team plays by the rules and assures every client they have their best interest.
Aside from lending their help to people who can't afford services from high-end firms and those who prefer a more discreet approach, QPA has worked with the Grant Foundation to provide various solutions and services to assist in any way possible. It's been different but good.
Power moves.
Just outside the office, Quinn awaits a potential candidate to take over Marcus's position. Based on his résumé, the man is flawless on paper, but in this world, paper means nothing if you can't back it up. So, Quinn's idea is to put him through a test.
"You have any information on this guy?" Huck inquires as he joins Quinn. "Or is this one of your trust me situations?"
"A little of both, but I did my research." A smile, "and he sent over his résumé. His name is Leon Armani. He graduated top of his class at Harvard University and became a powerhouse. He instilled fear in his opposition until his untimely resignation."
"He had it all. Why did he resign?"
"He lost someone significant to him, and that loss changed the trajectory of his life. They never found the culprit who committed the crime, so he spent a few years training to join the FBI, where he was accepted with open arms within six months." A pause.
"And get this. He found the guy, having had the resources, killed him and lied under oath."
Surprise consumes Huck's expression. "And he still kept his job?"
"Of course, he did. He used his skills as a lawyer and contacts to hide all evidence leading back to him proving how good he is."
Interesting. "So, why does he want to work for us?"
"Only he knows the answer to that." With a nod forward, Quinn shifts Huck's attention to Mr. Armani himself, pulling up in a 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit Reserve.
The exterior is a beautiful two-tone — black on the roof and velvety red wrapping around the front, sides, and back. The rims are custom-made and black chrome, and the windows are tinted to the legal limit. The engine shuts off, and within a matter of seconds, Leon steps out and walks around the vehicle to meet Huck and Quinn; the latter in awe of how undeniably handsome the man of the hour is.
He's that of a modern-day Adonis — beautiful to look at as his muscles flex with each movement he makes. He's a physical marvel of pure dedication to the gym, casting his dominance over any and everyone. He's confident, tall, umber complected, and when he approaches Huck and Quinn, he removes the dark shades covering his eyes and smiles, tucking them into the neckline of his white shirt.
Even Huck is a bit mesmerized by the perfect smile that complements the man, but he keeps his composure, unlike Quinn, who would be visibly drooling had her mouth been open. Huck chuckles, putting a pin in this to bring up later, preferably when they introduce Leon to the others should he be the candidate Quinn is searching for. Maybe. Either way, he's ready to get this show on the road.
"Hi, Leon Armani." Stretching a hand to Quinn, his voice rich like velvet. "I'm going to assume you're the one I spoke to, Quinn Perkins?"
Quinn completes the handshake. "Hunk — I mean, hi! Yes, I'm Quinn Perkins, and this is Huck. The others will be here in a second. They're grabbing some food."
Leon chuckles. "Nice to meet you." His gaze shifts to Huck. He doesn't look like a hand shaker, so he greets him with a nod, which Huck reciprocates.
"Both of you."
"You too." Huck smiles, kind of.
"So, I'm assuming you've read up on me. Are there any questions you want to ask?" He retracts his hand, tucking it inside his pocket.
"I have one," Huck announces. "Why do you want to work here? You've had an established career as a lawyer and an FBI agent. This career choice seems the opposite of that."
"I'm an avid rule breaker sometimes. When I have a chance to do some good, I don't want to ask for permission." He tells them. "I'm not a child."
"Was that your reasoning when you used your skills and resources at the time to track down a man and kill him for what he did to you?" Quinn asks.
"And then used those same tactics to separate yourself from the case after lying under oath," Huck adds.
"There was no reasoning. That was revenge." He counters. "That man killed my father, and no one batted an eye, so I took the law into my hands once and handled the situation myself." A pause.
"That's kind of what you guys do here, correct? Take the law into your hands to achieve your goal. Think first, consequences later."
Huck smiles. "You've done some research."
"That, and people talk."
Quinn smiles, glancing at Huck, who nods. There's something about Leon that entices them. He's not pretending to be someone he's not; that kind of transparency is hard to turn away.
"Well, Mr. Armani. You're hired." Quinn tells him. "How soon can you start?"
"As soon as you allow me to."
Right on time, Charlie and Marcus turn the corner with bags of food in their hands from their favorite Chinese spot. Quinn and Huck are pleased with Leon's on-the-spot interview and don't hesitate to introduce him to the others. They exchange names and handshakes before entering the firm.
Irrelevant chatter fills the elevator as the group approaches the office. They didn't have any clients, so the plan is to get Leon accustomed to the place, strategize and hopefully get the former agent's hands dirty. However, little do they know, there's a surprise waiting.
The elevator finally reaches the floor, the doors open, and one by one, they walk off, only to be caught off guard by Mellie standing inside the conference room. The failed president looks better than she did months ago, everyone aside from Leon can admit, but the truth is, the taste she left lingers.
"Why is she here?" Charlie inquires. "I thought the wicked witch melted after her failed stunt."
Huck snickers, Leon shakes his head, Quinn elbows Huck and Marcus — he's visibly angry.
"I'm not sure why she's here." Handing the food off to Quinn. "But I'll take care of it."
"What if she's here for help?" Huck wonders. "Our job has always been to help anyone who walks through those doors."
"I appreciate you for being the bigger person, Huck. I commend your growth but refuse to let her actions go unchecked." He turns and walks away, entering the conference room with the others following.
"You'll get used to the drama here," Charlie tells Leon, admiring the man. "You're a handsome man, by the way."
"Thanks." Leon chuckles. "And I'm guessing this happens often?"
A hum. "Some days more than others."
"Noted."
"Marcus. Hi." Mellie quickly straightens out her royal blue blazer. "It's nice to —"
Marcus cuts her off. "Is it true you asked Charlie to run B613 in hopes of taking down Olivia and Ryan a few months ago?"
The question catches her off guard, but she stands her ground.
"Yes. I did ask Charlie, and he declined, but I'm not that person anymore, Marcus. I have changed drastically over these past few months, and all I want is for you to forgive me."
Huck's gaze shifts between Mellie and Marcus. He can see it from both sides. Marcus wants Mellie to come to terms with her ignorance, and Mellie wants a chance to show she's changed. It's tough, not because he's friends with Mellie but because he understands wanting redemption but doesn't interject.
"Forgive you? How? How can I forgive you when all you've done is show your ignorance." Marcus steps closer to Mellie. "I stood up for you when no one else did and looked like a fool. The Mellie I know — the Mellie I loved would've never stooped so low." A pause.
"You asked Charlie to cross the line and kill Olivia and Ryan because they outsmarted and exposed you to the world. I can't stand beside you, Mellie. Not anymore."
"Marcus, please." She begs, stepping towards him, and in return, he steps back. "I need you to forgive me."
"I'm not at the point of forgiveness!" He exclaims, walking over to the conference room door and opening it. "You need to leave. Now."
Defeated, Mellie gathers her bearings and departs from the firm with haste. On the other hand, Marcus disappears into his office, and the others move to the conference room table. Charlie and Quinn set the food down, and Huck rushes to get silverware.
"So, Leon." Quinn attracts his attention. "Now that you've witnessed our daily dose of drama, I'm hoping you're ready for your first task?"
Still calm, he answers. "Absolutely."
"Good." Taking a fork from Huck when he returns. "Your first task is to get Ryan Lewis, the current Chief of Staff of the White House, to spread the word about QPA. Think you can handle that?"
"Piece of cake. It'll be nice to see President Briggs again." He assures, departing.
Quinn's taken aback. "Did he just?"
"He did." Huck chuckles.
"Wow." Charlie takes a seat. "Ryan must despise you guys if you have to send the new guy to do your dirty work."
"Charlie!" Both Huck and Quinn exclaim. "Not now!"
xxx
"Cyrus." Abby attracts his attention, entering his office carrying a dozen roses in her hands.
"Would you mind telling me why Fitz's old secret serviceman Tom is sending you flowers?" Kicking the door closed, Abby moves to put the vase on Cyrus's desk, occupying the empty chair.
"Are you seeing him?"
Cyrus lifts his head. "The answer is yes, Red." Setting his pen aside, he pulls the vase closer and takes the card from within the flowers to read.
"I know it's unexpected, but he's been a decent man, and that's saying a lot coming from me."
The shock is evident. "I'm happy for you, but as you said, it's completely unexpected."
"Always expect the unexpected, Red." Tucking the card into his blazer pocket, he smiles. "What do you want to know? And make it quick. We have work to do."
Abby leans over the desk, eager. "How did you two reconnect? Are you the top or the bottom? How is he holding up now that he no longer works for Fitz? Do you think he can be the one? And when the hell were you going to tell me?"
A chuckle. "I planned to tell you when you asked. We've been connected since the White House, but I kept it a secret because my luck wasn't the best. We take turns driving the car."
The last statement prompts Abby to laugh. What a good metaphor. Cyrus leans back against his chair, continuing.
"He's doing well, though. He teaches self-defense classes here in D.C. and still communicates with Fitz occasionally." A pause. Good question.
"He can be the one, but it's only been a year, and I want to enjoy it without that kind of pressure. I will say that, so far, I feel at home with Tom. There's a lot to be explored."
Abby is in awe, and the expression consuming her visage makes that apparent. However, she's happy for Cyrus and hopes this can be the beginning of a beautiful happy ending.
"I'm happy for you, Cyrus." A smile. "You deserve someone who will accept and nurture every part of you, and I hope he continues to bring you happiness."
"Thanks, Red." He appreciates her. "Now, since we're on the topic. How are you and David? Still going strong?"
"Yes." Folding her arms across her chest, she smiles. "Since Vermont, he's been attentive in every aspect, which is a nice change. I was worried we'd meet some irrefutable end, but he turned it around drastically, as did I."
"Marriage in the cards? Or are you two just going with the flow?"
"As much as I want that, a part of me doesn't. Marriage is a scary thing considering how my last one ended."
He understands. "You know David isn't Charles and will never be." He assures. "That man loves every bone in your body and would do nothing to put you in harm's way." He tells her.
"You don't have to rush to marry the man, but know that David is one of the good ones, and he's yours." A smile. "Don't push the idea off the table — at least not with him."
"You're right." A sigh. "I'll leave that door open. Anyways, any new cases or clientele?"
"Yes, there's this case Fitz wants us on." He pulls out a folder from his desk, handing it to Abby, who doesn't hesitate to read it.
"Teenagers of color have been protesting against the public school system for racial misconduct, so I'm waiting for Marcus to return from QPA so we can brainstorm how to attack this before Fitz makes an announcement."
Shit. "I'm surprised we didn't take this on sooner."
"We would have, but we're a bit swamped and not exactly a full house anymore."
He's right. "I'm assuming you still haven't heard from Ryan either."
A sigh. "No. I know we can get this done regardless. We have to, but I'm worried about him, and I don't like to worry. A few days without communication, I can understand, but months? That's a different situation."
She agrees. "It is, but at least he's alive. Whatever his reasoning is, I'm sure he'll inform us when he's ready, but in the meantime, we're more than capable of tackling this issue."
"Damn right, we are." Leaning forward. "So, for the plan of action, I was thinking we could —"
A knock on the door interrupts them, and Jonah enters the office, attracting their attention.
"Sorry to interrupt, Mr. Beene and Ms. Whelan, but Mellie Grant is here to see you."
The look Cyrus and Abby exchange says it all. The last thing they need is Mellie Grant, of all people trying to sink her claws into anything and anyone who will give her the time of day. The disgust is visible, but they decide to be good Samaritans out of curiosity.
"Send her in," Cyrus tells him.
"Right away, sir." Jonah nods, departing from the office and informing Mellie that it's okay for her to enter.
"What the hell could she possibly want?" Abby asks in a whisper. "After her stunt, I didn't think she'd show her face."
Cyrus huffs. "That's how this place works. Everyone at the top will eventually fall; if she's here, she fell hard." A fake smile spreads across his visage when Mellie enters.
"Mellie, how can we at the Grant Foundation help you today?"
Mellie's on edge, embarrassed to give her reasoning for showing up, knowing no one wants anything to do with her. Still, she didn't have anywhere else to go. No one would see or take her seriously after her fall from grace.
Clearing her throat, Mellie stands tall, fixing up her blazer. She appears to be a different woman to Cyrus and Abby, but even they can see the struggles looming over her, and it's her fault. Power lifted her, and now it walks over her.
"There's a sex tape of me going around without my permission. Can you help me? Please."
Abby glances at Cyrus, mouth agape as he runs a hand through his hair.
"Talk about rock bottom." He quips.
xxx
Fairytales don't always have a happy ending, and for Ryan, this statement reminds him of the harsh reality that constantly plagued his love life. Like two ships in the night, Ryan and Danny docked at the same harbor, and with a little push, the rest was history. However, although their love was true, they ran out of time.
A few weeks after the proposal, Danny received a call regarding his dream job to join the CIA, and for him, it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Ryan understood this, especially with his career on the upward curve. The only difference is that Ryan was needed here, in D.C., whereas Danny was needed in Virginia.
It was a hard pill to swallow, and neither wanted to say goodbye, but they did after an emotional final night together. It was a mutual decision, no bad blood, but the hole it left was too much to handle. It changed Ryan. After he mourned the end of what he thought was his happy ending, he immediately got back to work.
Taking a break from the Grant Foundation and QPA, afraid that when he sees his friends, he'll break, Ryan accepted a temporary position as Chief of Staff on behalf of President Briggs, who wants to ensure he has the right people in his cabinet. He trusts Ryan, not only because of his work with Fitz but also outside of him.
Ryan's the closest thing to an ally, and although the position is temporary, he'll assure that President Briggs is well taken care of. After all, this job is the only thing he has to apply himself to, so he doesn't go off the deep end. Ryan can't let that happen, and he'll try his hardest. It's like a coping mechanism without any of the coping.
Making his way to the Oval Office, Ryan saunters through the hall in typical Ryan fashion. On the outside, he looks stunning. His skin is glowing, there's a fire in his eyes, and his sleek, dark tresses now sit perfectly on his shoulders, complemented with a side part and peekaboo wine red highlights to heighten his appearance.
He also looks the part, draped in a black and grey Alexander McQueen contrasting single-breasted wool suit jacket, matching suit trousers with a garnet button-up underneath, and Christian Louboutin Greggo Orlato velvet dress shoes of the same color. Much darker than his traditional wardrobe, thanks to his breakup.
The man attracts a great deal of attention, and the subtle sway of his hips with every step gives his temporary coworkers something to gawk over. However, his face remains stoic. He means business; the first order is to bring the president up to speed with the details. Passing by Kennedy, Briggs's assistant, his phone rings.
It's Marcus. Great.
There's a brief moment of hesitance, but Ryan decides to answer, stepping aside. At least he doesn't have to see him, right?
"Marcus. How may I help you today?"
"Ryan, hey." The surprise is evident. "Shit. I didn't expect you to answer."
"Well, I did." A smile. "So, how may I help you?"
"I'm here with Abby and Cyrus," the two say hello in the background, "we need your help with something."
"What?"
"Mellie has a sex tape, and we were wondering if you could help us take care of that before it spreads." He tells him. "It would be a big help."
"On top of that, it will give us more time to focus on the teenagers of color protesting against the school board for racial injustice," Cyrus informs.
A hum. "There's an issue within the school system, and you're calling me to handle a Mellie Grant issue?"
"You haven't returned our phone calls in months, Ryan." Abby counters.
True. Still. "When did you catch wind of the teenagers protesting?"
"Today." They answer.
"So, in the months I went without speaking to you, how does that affect what's happening now?
His question draws silence. With no answer, Ryan continues.
"Exactly. Now, I have work to do, so you'll have to ask someone else to help you with Mellie."
Before they can respond, Ryan ends the call and enters the president's office with a smile, closing the door behind him.
"I come bearing good news, Mr. President."
Sitting comfortably on the couch, Briggs looks up from his folder with a smile. He's always happy to see Ryan.
"That's been in short supply today." A sigh. "What do you have for me?"
Ryan sits opposite him, crossing his legs. "After Mellie's stunts during her race to claim this office, there were many things the former President Grant had in motion that paused. One of those things was free college." A pause.
"Kennedy will forward you the information, but that bill has been passed due to your hard work and dedication to this nation."
Briggs's expression lights up. "Well, I'll be damned. That bill was significant to me when Mr. Grant and I spoke about it during the race to the White House."
"And now it's a reality." A smile. "You are to meet with the Department of Education tomorrow to discuss the details to eliminate surprises."
"Good. I hate surprises." A chuckle. "Where are we at with gun control?"
A sigh. "America loves a gun." A sad but true statement. "However, I'm working on it. A few senators refuse to vote in favor of this bill, but I can get them to see the error of their ways."
"You always do." Setting his folder on the table. "In other news, I have a potential candidate for the vice presidency, and I was wondering if you could meet him. I trust your judgment."
"Oh? Who is it?"
"Edison Davis." The name prompts Ryan to fold his arms. "I think he's a stand-up guy, and the general public loves him."
"But you don't know if your views align, so you want me to iron out the creases?"
"Precisely."
"Consider it done."
Briggs appreciates Ryan's contribution. Without him, his job wouldn't be as easy, which leads him to his next topic.
"Thank you. I know things have been slightly different since I started this job, but I want you to know that I appreciate you."
A smile. "Thank you, Mr. President. I'm happy to assist you with whatever you need."
"In that case, how would you like to be a permanent member of my staff? You're a tough candidate to beat." He compliments him.
"Everyone here loves you. On top of that, things have been on an upward path with you by my side. You don't have to decide now, but it's something to consider."
"I will let you know in a few days." A smile as he rises to his feet. "Is there anything else you need while I'm here?"
"Yes. It hasn't become a big deal yet, but with the good we're doing, I don't want this to overshadow anything."
"What is it?"
"Mellie Grant has a sex tape going around. Whatever the reasoning isn't my business, but I need you to shut it down before it gains traction."
Of course. "Right away, Mr. President."
Ryan departs from the office and saunters back to his own. Helping Mellie wasn't something on his checklist. However, for Briggs, he'll handle it. Before he enters his office, Charlotte stops and informs him that someone from QPA was here to see him, which he thanks her for — entering his office and closing the door behind him.
"If you're here to talk about Mellie, I'm already taking care of it, so you didn't have to —" When he turns to face who expects to be Huck or Quinn, he loses his train of thought when he sees an unfamiliar face standing before him.
"— come all this way. I'm sorry, who are you?"
"Leon Armani." Stretching a hand to Ryan. "It's nice to meet you."
Ryan shakes his hand and motions for him to take a seat as he sits behind the desk.
"Likewise."
Leon's visibly perfect, from what Ryan can tell. Full lips, dark-haired, dark-eyed, and a full, shaped-up beard complemented by his temp fade that matches the height and shape of his head. He's quite the specimen, and that doesn't include his physicality.
Mr. Armani is handsome and looks too good in a white button-up shirt and jeans that hug his physique in all the right ways. If it weren't for those little buttons fighting to hold the fabric of the shirt together, the wonders of Leon would be exposed.
And when he smiles — anyways.
"So, are you really with QPA, or did you conveniently know what to say to schedule this impromptu meeting?"
Leon chuckles, taking his seat. "First, I'm not here to talk about Mellie, though she does need help. Second, I do work with them. This task was my first assigned by Quinn."
Interesting. "So, why exactly are you here? How did you get in?"
"I'm friends with your boss." He tells him. "And I'm here because QPA is back in business, and I figured you could help spread the word."
A hum. "They sent you here to ask the Chief of Staff for a shoutout?"
The question elicits a laugh from Leon. When you put it that way, it does seem ridiculous.
"I'll admit, it does seem silly, but it's what they need."
He's stern in his demeanor, allowing his eyes to wander, and admire. Ryan's a beautiful man. Pretty, but not in a condescending way. Leon's never seen him in person before, only on television. It's undoubtedly clear he means business in how he carries himself.
"Okay." Leaning forward over his desk. "Since you were so kind, I'll take care of it. However, I need you to relay a message for me."
He's grateful. "Anything."
"Tell them never to waste my time for a shoutout again." A smile. "Think you can do that?"
"Of course." He rises to his feet, stretching his hand out once more. "I'll let them know."
Ryan completes the handshake, quickly retracting his hand. "Thank you, Mr. Armani. It was nice meeting you."
A smile. "Likewise."
As Leon departs from the office, Ryan sighs, rolling his eyes and shaking his head. Mellie Grant, of all people. He's visibly disgusted, but the quicker he handles this situation, the less he has to hear her name. From his chair, he rises, exiting his office to Charlotte's desk.
"Tell the president I'm taking the rest of the day off." He departs. "And send me everything you know about this Mellie Grant fiasco."
Thank you for reading!