xoxo
X
Olivia walks through Ryan's closet, dressed in a grey Prada Belted Prince of Wales-check wool jacket and matching, grey checked wool-blend midi skirt from the same designer and black Prada Donna crystal-embellished leather sandals. She passed on her usual curls and sported her hair wavy and parted down the middle. She wears Tiffany and Co earrings and a matching bracelet, while her black Gucci Broadway GG-plaque leather clutch bag is secure underneath her arm. Of course, she had to show up looking magnificent. Classic Olivia.
Ryan's fashion sense enamors her, knowing that he sits proudly on the bed, watching her with his legs crossed. They share the same taste in clothing down to the accessories, and to Olivia, it's a match made in heaven. It's uncanny how alike they are, but she doesn't complain. Having a brother is ecstatic for her. He makes her feel like she can fly no matter the circumstance, and he's real. He's the best thing to come out of her going dark, and she hopes they can continue to prosper together, building beautiful moments and memories.
"This is the first time I've been speechless about someone's clothes." She chuckles in admittance. "I don't even know where to start." She turns to face him, a smile appearing.
"This coming from the woman who always looks stunning." He motions a hand towards her, pointing out the obvious.
"Your fashion sense inspired mine. I can admit that truthfully. You always look so poised and elegant, sexy and confident. Most people only have one out of the four."
"Thank you. I'm glad I could be a template for you to create your style because I could never pull off many of these pieces." A chuckle, turning her attention to his collection of suits.
He snickers. "That's a damn lie, and you know it."
"Maybe a tiny lie." She smiles, her thumb and index finger put close together without touching. "So, what are you going for tonight?"
A hum. "Maybe something on the opposite side of the spectrum of your look. I want to give sexy, but I also want to be reserved since it is a double date."
"Say no more." She tosses her clutch in his direction, which he catches as she carefully begins to rummage through his closet, paying close attention to the pieces. "Bingo." She grabs three hangers and exits the closet, placing the clothes on the bed.
"So, I was thinking this pastel pink leather belted trench coat with a simple black logo-embroidered cotton T-shirt, paired with these gorgeous pair of side-striped biker straight-leg jeans from Balenciaga."
He takes a moment to analyze the pieces. He wasn't sure if he was in a pink mood, but the more he stared at it, the more it stood out.
"I love this." He means it. "What about shoes and accessories? Oh, and hair?"
"For your shoes, I thought you could wear the pastel pink Balenciaga leather Chelsea boots I saw hiding in the corner." She smiles, folding her arms across her chest.
"I wouldn't go too extravagant for your accessories, just a pair of diamond studs and a matching necklace. And for your hair, I think you should wear it up in a ponytail. Show your face off."
"Well, Ms. Pope." He smiles, rising to his feet. "Your talents never cease to amaze me. I see the vision." He chuckles, as does she. "You sold this better than an infomercial. I might have you do this at least once a week."
"Hey, I'll be more than happy to help." She grins. "As payment, however, you have to let me borrow some of your clutches. They're to die for."
"It's a deal." He extends a hand to her, which she shakes. "So, are you excited?"
"I am. I can't wait to see Fitz." She chuckles. "Are they coming here, or are we meeting them?"
"Making an entrance together for the first time is the top priority. Give our wonderful men something to gawk over."
"You know what, Ryan? I love how you think."
"Don't get me started." A chuckle. "Once I hit the gas, it's hard for me to stop."
"I'll try not to." She grabs her clutch, chuckling, making her way to the door. "Now, hurry up and get dressed. We don't have all night."
X
Fitz and Danny are the first to arrive at the restaurant as expected. With four secret service members surrounding them, Fitz is the first to enter. He stuns in an all-black Tom Ford golden pinstripe suit with black loafers from the same designer and a Tiffany and Co diamond bracelet.
On the other hand, Danny keeps it casual in an orange Ambush logo-print piped cotton sweatshirt, black oversized-pocket straight-leg jeans from the same designer, and orange Balenciaga speed trainers. He rocks a rose gold Tiffany and Co Atlas watch on his right wrist.
They greet the hostess and make their way to the table, leaving no one feeling unwelcome.
With this being Olivia and Fitz's first date, he didn't bother to have the place cleared out because he knows how Olivia operates. He wants nothing but for her to be as comfortable as possible. Fitz orders a bottle of their finest scotch for him and Danny upon reaching the table.
In contrast, Danny orders Ryan's favorite Bordeaux, which he knows Olivia will drink, before taking their seats. It's weird; although they've anticipated this double date, something about seeing Olivia and Ryan amps up the nervousness. Maybe it's their strive for a perfect night.
"So, how does it feel to be out of the White House?" Danny wonders with a smile, folding his arms across his chest. "Are you nervous?"
"Like hell," Fitz answers, chuckling. "It feels good, however. I finally get to spend a night with Olivia, and having you and Ryan with us will be comforting. What about you? Are you nervous?"
"I'm always nervous." A chuckle, leaning over the table. "It's become an everyday thing for me." Truth be told. "Is this your first date with Olivia?"
"What? Why are you always nervous? I didn't see you as the type." He chuckles, thanking the waitress for delivering the scotch and wine. He continues. "And yes. She wouldn't have agreed to a date with just me and her yet."
"So, Ryan and I are the icebreakers? Got it." A laugh. "Normally, I'm not a nervous guy, but Ryan has a way of bringing that out of me."
"I hope that's okay." He laughs, grabbing his glass and taking a sip of the bronze liquid. "Trust me, I can relate to you. It's how I feel about Olivia. She drives me insane."
Danny chuckles. "I don't mind." He grabs his glass, raising it. "Well, how's about we toast to our significant others and a good night ahead of us."
"Cheers to that." He clinks his glass off Danny's before they both take a sip. "Mmm, they should be here by now."
"Now that you mention it, you're right." He sets his glass down on the table, reaching into his pocket to grab his phone. "I'll just call and-"
"There they are," Fitz informs, a smile creeping onto his face. His announcement prompts Danny to turn his attention to the entrance.
Olivia and Ryan enter the restaurant on cue, attracting everyone's attention. They're similar in how they walk, a subtle sway that ripples perfectly like water with each step. They're poised, mesmerizing the onlookers, including their dates, Danny and Fitz. They're glowing, and the collective power and beauty they share radiate from their pores.
Upon reaching the table, Danny and Fitz stand up to greet them. The four exchange a series of hugs before everyone takes their designated seats. Ryan sits next to Danny, across from Olivia, who sits next to Fitz.
Olivia clears her throat. "So . . ."
"What did we miss?" Ryan asks.
X
"I'm not saying I don't want to go. I'm saying that before we do go, there're some things I need to get off my chest." Marcus says, entering the conference room alongside Quinn.
"Like what? You don't have any issues with anyone."
"I don't agree with how Ryan and Olivia handled Mellie, and I'm going to say something about it."
"About what?" Abby asks, walking out of the kitchen with Huck. He's cradling a cup of tea in his hands.
Quinn sighs. "Marcus doesn't like how Mellie was handled, so he plans on confronting Ryan and Olivia before we go."
"That's not a good idea," Huck says.
"And why not?" Marcus turns to face him. "They ruined her career all because of Olivia's actions."
Quinn chuckles. "Even I know that's not true."
"Yeah, the facts proved that Mellie was involved in some pretty sick shit. She would've put this nation six feet under." Abby adds.
"Ryan is good." Huck answers.
"Bullshit!" Marcus retorts, voice filled with venom. "I don't know why you three are up Ryan's ass, but I won't be. What he did ruin was the life of someone I cared about."
"That's not a good idea," Huck warns.
"Why? Are you afraid that the Ghost of D.C. isn't as perfect as you think?"
"No, I'm afraid for you. I've seen what Ryan's capable of and don't want to be in his crosshairs."
"Besides, everyone knows that it was Olivia that ruined Mellie." Quinn states. "I know her work anywhere."
"Doesn't matter." Marcus shrugs it off. "I will confront them both, and if I end up in his crosshairs, so be it."
Abby shakes her head. "Just when I thought things would be somewhat decent before we depart."
X
Genuine laughter fills the table as Ryan and Olivia tease Danny and Fitz about their nervousness while eating their respective meals. It warms their hearts to know that they have such an overwhelming effect on their significant others. It also makes it extremely fun to use this so-called nervousness against them.
"So, you mean to tell me that you and Danny get extremely nervous around Olivia and me?" Ryan asks, taking a sip of the red liquid in hand. "What makes this happen?"
With her elbow resting on the table and her chin resting on her fist, Olivia turns to look at Fitz, whereas Ryan's gaze drifts between Fitz and Danny. Both anticipate the answers from the men, so they remain stoic and silent to up the pressure.
Feeling the heat, Danny downs the rest of his scotch while Fitz chuckles softly, reverting his gaze to Olivia.
"I guess I'll answer for both Danny and me. We're not sure what it is, but being in your orbit does make us nervous. I think it has everything to do with how you carry yourselves that drives us a little insane."
"It's like butterflies running amok in your stomach. It's euphoric, but it can be dramatic when hearts start to sink into the stomach." Danny adds. "But I think it's rewarding because it lets me and Fitz know that it's real and far from a fairytale."
Fitz chuckles. "And that leads to a rush of different emotions taking over, and the one way we can show them all can break a few rules if done at the wrong time."
Danny jabs his finger at Fitz in agreement. "Amen, brother."
Olivia chuckles, as does Ryan. "You know what I think? I think it's because you're both madly in love with us, so you don't have too much choice to do anything other than giving us what we deserve."
"There's nothing remotely better than Olivia and I for you two. Case closed." Ryan smiles, gently nudging Danny with his shoulder while pointing at Fitz.
"You're stuck on the carousel with us, and all the little feelings you feel will never stop because Olivia and I are simply at the top of the food chain."
"You can say that again." She laughs, as does Ryan. They interlock their pinkies as Danny and Fitz watch them. It's truly a beautiful sight to see. "But no worries. I think it's adorable that you get nervous, Mr. President." She teases.
"You do, huh?" He asks with a smile, snaking an arm around her waist. "And why is that?"
She leans in, lips almost touching his. "Because it lets me know you're still in this with me after everything." She murmurs. "I'd be worried if you didn't feel nervous."
Fitz chuckles, tucking his lip between his teeth as he rubs his thumb in a circular motion upon her waist.
"You make a very valid point, Ms. Pope."
"What can I say?" She chuckles. "I'm always right."
"Would you be worried if I didn't feel nervous, Ry?" Danny asks, resting his arm across the back of Ryan's chair, focusing his gaze on him.
"No." He's honest. "I've already made a mark in your life. Nervous or not, I have you all to myself."
Danny leans in, pressing a soft kiss upon Ryan's cheek.
"I love when you're possessive," lips to Ryan's ear, though he's not entirely silent. "Turns me on."
There's a silence as his unexpected words attract Ryan's attention and Fitz and Olivia's. Their gazes shift reflectively to one another before everyone bursts into uncontrollable laughter.
There're no disagreements between any party.
"I can relate," Fitz states, bringing the table to silence. Olivia turns her attention to Ryan before they resume laughter, interlocking their pinkies again.
"It's true." Fitz continues to laugh. "You and Ryan may remain imperturbable with some of the best poker faces in the world, but deep down, Danny and I know we have as much power over you as you do with us."
"Hey, we never disagreed," Olivia says, placing a hand on Fitz's face. "We're simply teasing you."
"Exactly." Ryan agrees, resting his head upon Danny's shoulder, who wraps his arm around him. "It's always been a mutual situation; we have a different way of going about it than you two do."
"I'd say that's what makes it more fun." Danny chuckles, pressing a kiss to Ryan's head. "The differentiation makes things more interesting."
"That it does." Fitz agrees as he leans in and presses a soft kiss upon Olivia's forehead. "One day, however, we'll get you two to crack. I don't know when, but it's bound to happen."
"Good luck with that." Ryan and Olivia say simultaneously, eliciting laughter from Danny and Fitz's lips.
"So, are you ready for Vermont?" Fitz asks, returning his attention to the table. "We're leaving soon."
"I am." Olivia answers. "It's been some time since I've seen the place."
"You're going to love it." He assures. "I make sure to update it as time goes on."
She smiles softly, grabbing the stem of her wine glass and taking a sip of the delicious red liquid.
"So, you built a house for you and her?" Ryan inquires, "What was the decision behind that? It's a huge gesture."
"It's simple. I know Olivia's with whom I want to spend the rest of my life." He smiles. "I was out of my element when I first showed her, but I never regretted it."
Ryan smiles, nodding. "And how did you feel when he showed you the house, Liv?"
"Overwhelmed with emotion." She answers. "At the time, I was confused due to the circumstances, but the moment he told me it was for us, I kind of let all that go and showed him my appreciation."
Ryan hums, more than pleased with her answer. However, he wants more than what's on the surface.
"So, if the circumstances were different, do you think you would've moved to Vermont to start a life with him?"
She takes a moment to ponder his question as everyone's gaze lands on her. Setting the glass down, she looks at Fitz, Danny, and Ryan.
"No."
"Why not?"
"I don't want Vermont with Fitz to be the focal point of my life. Vermont feels like a fairytale ending to everything we've ever done, and I don't want that because it's unrealistic." She gently nudges Fitz with her shoulder, prompting him to smile.
"I want him. I know that. I want a life with him. I know that, too. And while Vermont has always been a dream, it's not exactly a reality. I have a few things to figure out before that can happen."
Fitz smiles warmly. For the first time, he finally feels that Olivia wants him as much as he wants her. Although they've talked about this already, it's good to hear the admittance. It's refreshing to see her reclaiming the light she lost.
Ryan grins. "Would you move there eventually?"
"And how do you feel about what she said, Fitz?" Danny wonders.
Olivia snickers, casting her gaze on Fitz. "I would. Once I've accomplished my goals, I wouldn't mind Vermont being a permanent residence."
Fitz smiles, pulling her closer to him. "I was selfish back then, so her saying this would've made me spiral, but I agree with her now. I don't want to force her to detour from the path she chose for herself."
"That's very big of you, man." Danny smiles, reaching over and patting Fitz's shoulder. "Compromise is a big part of relationship building, and you two seem to be on a steady foundation."
"We are." Olivia and Fitz say simultaneously with a smile, gazing into each other's eyes.
"Good." He smiles. "That just makes me all the more ready for Vermont."
"Me too," Ryan adds, hooking a leg over Danny's thigh.
Danny chuckles, refilling everyone's drink with their beverage of choice.
"How's about we make a toast." He grabs his glass of scotch, raising it. "To friends, family, love, and a wonderful trip in Vermont."
Following suit, Olivia, Ryan, and Fitz grab their refilled glasses and raise them.
"Cheers!" They exclaim in unison, downing their respective liquids.
"Oh! Before I forget," Olivia sets her glass down. "I want to take this time to apologize to you, Danny, for putting your life in danger when I did. Using you as a pawn in whatever game I was trying to play wasn't right. I'm sorry, and I hope you can forgive me."
Danny sets his glass on the table, a hum sounding from his chest. H can see the tension consuming Olivia, but he eases her mind.
"I've already forgiven you." He's sincere. "I'm still here, and you've learned from that situation. So, don't worry about it. You and I are good."
"Thank you." She smiles, nodding. "So much."
X
The sound of unnecessary banging echoes from his front door, making him question who the hell is on the other side. Grabbing his gun from under the dining room table, he makes his way to the door posthaste, tucking the gun into the back waistband of his pants.
As the knocking gets louder, he sighs, opening the door with a little more aggression than he intended to.
"What?!" He exclaims, startling a frantic Mellie. "What do you want?!"
He looks horrible. This reason alone scares Mellie, for Eli looks unhinged for the first time. As her heartbeat calms, she studies his demeanor. He's broken, hair unkempt, hands fidgeting, redness consuming his eyes. The sight of him is new to her. He always gave off the energy that he was on top of the world, and now he's nothing but a mere man.
They're the same.
"I came to ask you for help."
"Help? For what? You see where my help has gotten us."
"Revenge." She says, buttoning her bright red coat as he listens intently. "Everything we had is gone because of your spawn and her retched brother. How can y-?"
"You can say whatever you want about Olivia but on your own time." He folds his arms across his chest. "She is still my daughter; you will not disrespect her."
"Oh please, you've been doing that for years." She retorts, venomous. "She was your puppet to control and do whatever you want, and now that the tables have turned and you're all alone, you suddenly see the light?" She chuckles, disappointed in him.
"Spare me the Disney moment."
The comment doesn't sit well with him, so he grabs his gun from the waistband and aims it at her without hesitation, but she doesn't flinch.
"Aww, poor Eli. You made your bed, but you can't seem to lay in it." She moves the gun from her face with the back of her hand. "Losing Olivia has made you weak. It's embarrassing."
"And yet you're here asking for my help." He retorts, unwavering. "Biting the hand that could feed you is how people like you end up dead or worse." He chuckles. "You come here dressed in a fancy red coat, but your soul reeks of desperation."
The retort leaves her speechless. She inhales sharply, trying to remain firm in her stance, but her once confident demeanor is fading.
"Ah, there she is." He scoffs. "The Mellie Grant who's no longer masquerading as a powerful woman but Mellie Grant who's just as broken as me. Nice to meet you. I'm Eli Pope, and I have a little message." He steps closer to her.
"I am not interested in getting revenge, so the next time you come here with some hope that you and I will come together to attempt to destroy Olivia and Ryan . . . I won't hesitate to put a bullet right between your eyes. Okay?"
"O-okay." She stammers, heart palpitating through her chest.
"You have a nice day." He gives a small smile, disappearing back inside his home, leaving Mellie to deal with an immense feeling of failure.
X
"So, how do you feel about our first official date?" Olivia asks, entering the Oval Office and stepping out of her heels before walking around, gently touching the furniture.
"Did it make you happy? I know you would prefer it to be just us."
Closing the door behind them, Fitz removes his coat and tosses it onto the chair, his gaze following her.
"It doesn't matter. It could be you and I or a group of us." He smiles. "I had an amazing time with you and them. It was nice to see you leave your comfort zone and not be so tense."
"Tense?" She turns to face him, bursting into laughter as she folds her arms across her chest. "Watch it, mister."
He snickers. "I'm sorry."
"You should be," she retorts, "lucky for you, I agree. I know our first date alone was not so eventful due to the circumstances, but tonight proved to me that no matter what, I feel good around you."
He chuckles, tucking his hands in his pockets. "You do?"
"I do." She confirms. "I got out of my way and allowed myself to have fun with you for a change. On top of that, I vocalized what I wanted, which felt good."
"It felt good hearing it." He smiles, gradually over to her. "I was also happy that you got the chance to apologize to Danny. That was big of you."
"I owed it to him, my brother, and myself." She's honest. "The guilt would've eaten me alive had I just pretended like I didn't try to ruin them for some false idea of power." She chuckles, hands rubbing up Fitz's chest as he closes in on her, his arms wrapping loosely around her waist.
"Making right all my wrongs are a part of my journey, and what better way than to start with the ones closest to me."
"You're doing an amazing job." He assures, pressing a kiss upon her lips. "I'm sure that scored you some more points with Ryan, and not only that, you showed the person you're climbing to be, and that's a win for you. That is power. You're standing in your truth and letting the light in, and I couldn't be more proud to watch you win."
She smiles, fingers brushing through the hair along the nape of his neck. It's been an uphill battle for her, but these last few weeks have been eye-opening without the rose-colored glasses. And to make this moment more triumphant, she's glad that Fitz can witness her newfound self and growth. After all—
— all roads lead to Fitz.
"I love you, Fitz." She says, her soft voice like music to his ears. "You're always in my corner, even when I fall. You may not be there to catch me, but you are there to help me pick myself up. Regardless of our mishaps, you've always had my back, and it's riveting to feel." She focuses her browns on his ceruleans.
"I wouldn't change a thing. You've been a constant light throughout it all. Whether you're near or far, I can look up and see that you're where I'm meant to be."
Her admittance brings a smile to his face as he holds her tighter, relishing her words. Olivia's never been so open with him in this way before, and it's nice to talk, opting out of the sexual matters they usually use to feel something other than hurt.
"You're where I'm meant to be, too, Liv. And I love you, too." Moving a few loose strands of hair from her face, brushing her cheek with his thumb. "So, where does this leave us?"
With a smile, eyes glistening like stars in the darkest night, Olivia kisses him with a feverish passion, pressing herself against him. Her following words are as clear as day.
"I'm ready."
X
Standing outside Maya's hotel room, an indifferent Eli hesitates to knock on the door. He knows this is the last place he should be, but he doesn't have anywhere else to go or anyone else to talk to because the truth is, the regret is sinking in, and soon Eli will be drowning in his despair.
He knocks on the door with a heavy exhale but is taken aback when it opens, only to see Donovan standing on the other side. His lips part, and his gaze narrows, but he doesn't act on the rage he feels. Eli hates this man with everything in him, but it's his fault, his insecurity. He knows this.
So, he puts his pride aside because the last thing he needs is more issues.
"Hi, uh, is Maya around?"
Donovan nods, moving out of the doorway. "Come in. She's been expecting you."
His words send chills down Eli's spine, hearing the door close behind him as he enters the hotel room. He feels out of place, lost, trapped like an animal in a cage, and sitting on her throne is the Queen of all Queens, Maya, gauging Eli's demeanor.
"So, you're feeling the regret seep in, huh?"
"Maya . . ."
"I'll take that as a yes." She takes a small sip of the clear liquid as Donovan walks over, sitting beside her. "So, what are you going to do?"
"I don't know. It's why I came here. I was hoping you could help me."
"Help you? Chile . . ." She chuckles, emitting a soft sigh. "There is nothing I can say or do to help you. You made sure of that."
"You can help me mend my relationship with our daughter."
"Now she's our daughter? Interesting." She sets her glass down on the end table, leaning forward. "You want me to help you mend a relationship that she doesn't want, and for what? So, you can ruin her progress in undoing all the manipulation you put her through?"
"What?" He asks, disbelief taking over. "No."
"Then what, Eli?"
"So, I can be the father that she deserves!" He exclaims, stepping closer to her, stopping a safe distance away. "I made a mistake. I'm trying to-"
"Poor baby." She derides him. "You made more than a mistake. A mistake would be grounding your child because you thought she was out partying when she was studying. What you did was an assassination. You assassinated her character and made her lonely and miserable like you." She scoffs.
"The good news is that she's made or is making amends with her demons whereas you . . . you're just looking for another way out."
"There is no other way out!" He throws his hands up in defeat, his voice echoing off the walls.
"Which is why you have to live with the mess you made." She smiles. "This time . . . it's up to Olivia to decide whether she wants you around or not. Not me."
X
"Hey, Ry!" Danny calls out as he enters Ryan's apartment, setting his keys on the bookshelf ledge and closing the door behind him. "Where are you?"
"I'm in the bedroom!" He announces, folding up his jeans and placing them in the open suitcase atop the clothes-covered bed. "Packing for Vermont has been a process. The weather there is unpredictable, which makes it difficult." He chuckles, turning his attention to Danny, who enters the room, immediately wrapping Ryan in his arms and placing a kiss on his lips.
"I'm sure you'll figure it out, gorgeous." He chuckles, kissing him once more. "So, how are you? Did you enjoy date night?"
Ryan smiles, placing his hands on Danny's shoulders and squeezing them.
"I'm good." He assures. "Date night was very entertaining, and I think I'd do it again. Aside from that, as you can see, it's all about the clothes." He chuckles.
"How are you?"
"I'm terrific." He smiles. "The only downside is that I had to leave to pack so I wouldn't have to tomorrow." His hands travel to Ryan's waist. "I also enjoyed the double date. Olivia and Fitz are fun as a couple."
"They are." He confirms, fingers combing through Danny's hair. "And how about this. So you don't have to leave, why don't you bring some stuff over. I have tons of drawer space you can use."
Danny hums from Ryan's touch. "Yeah?"
"Mhm, I think it's a step in the right direction. Plus, I'm not too fond of it when you have to leave, too, sometimes."
"Sometimes?" He questions with a smile.
"Sometimes." He reiterates, teasing.
"It's not my fault that being with you has become routine." His lips find Ryan's for a quick kiss. "You can't blame me for that, can you?"
"I'd find a way to blame you, but I'll put the claws away because you're so cute," a faint chuckle, hands rubbing down to Danny's chest, eliciting a soft groan from his lips.
"You can always put those claws to good use," he pulls Ryan flush against him, the heat between them rising, "I don't think I've done enough to make you an artist yet, although the first time I came quite close."
"Well," his hand travels lower, fingers scouring Danny's abdomen before reaching his shaft, gently brushing along his pulsing erection. "I would love to put these metaphorical claws to good use. I don't think I claimed you fully yet."
"I second that notion," a soft groan rumbles from his chest, his hands rubbing down to Ryan's rear, giving it a firm squeeze, "but first, what would you say to us getting a house together?" Lips gliding along Ryan's jaw, tongue tasting the sweetness of his skin.
Ryan hums, his head instinctively tipping backward. He rubs his hand along Danny's erection with more pressure, feeling the desire taking over. Still, he focuses on the topic, though he finds himself struggling.
"A house? Together?"
"A house." He confirms. "Together." He lifts Ryan by his ass swiftly, coaxing his legs around his waist. "You owe me that much." He teases, pushing the suitcase on the bed and the clothes to the side before laying him down on the bed, remaining inside his legs.
"What do you say?"
Ryan's hazels meet Danny's grays, snaking his arms around his neck. Outside of the apparent tension, the gesture is beyond the temptation. He didn't think they were ready for that step; he never thought about it, but Danny's eyes let him know that maybe that's a step they needed to take.
He smiles, kissing Danny, leaving no part of his mouth unexplored by his tongue. Their bodies rut together in tandem, feeling their arousal become inescapable. They need each other, as evident by how they consume one another with longing touches, feverish kisses, and mending bodies closing the small spaces between them.
"I say, you need to work for an answer." He smiles against Danny's lips, expertly undoing Danny's pants and zipping them down. The minor release of pressure constricting his erection elicits a groan from Danny as he removes Ryan's underwear, pulling them down and off his legs.
Danny hums, taking Ryan's lip between his teeth as he reaches down, carefully removing his erected arousal from his jeans. He pumps himself a few times, back and forth, back and forth, feeling his cock harden in his hand while Ryan reaches and retrieves the lubricant from the nightstand drawer. Danny grinds against his lover's entrance, groaning softly, feeling the clear liquid grace his shaft. He continues to pump himself to apply it, using his engorged tip to prepare his boyfriend's entrance, relishing the sounds radiating from him.
"Let's not waste any more time." He murmurs, needy, a hand caressing Ryan's thighs as he carefully begins to push himself inside, feeling his warmth consume him instantaneously, eliciting soft groans from his lips.
"The answer is yes." He moans, burying his face against Danny's neck, wrapping himself around him as Danny makes himself at home within Ryan's walls. There's no need for him to work for the answer, for the feeling is undeniable.
Danny moves his face to Ryan's, gazing into his eyes, feeling the pleasure coursing through his body. He wants to say something in response to Ryan's answer, but he can't bring the words to fruition. He's speechless, aside from the moans and soft curses filling the room as he fucks Ryan into the bed.
There's no comparison. The look of pleasure consuming Ryan's face enamors Danny, quenching his thirst for Ryan as he growls with every meeting of their hips. Lost in the desire and carnivorous urge, he moves harder and faster inside of him, prompting those same moans and curses to escalate.
His hands explore Ryan's body, feeling his entirety trembling underneath his palms. He's beautiful, euphoric, a habit he can't escape. Danny watches Ryan, licking his lips when he feels hands grabbing his rear, pushing him in deeper. The action earns Ryan a guttural sound from Danny as he plunges deeper, the vice around his cock so warm and inviting.
He doesn't look away, grabbing Ryan's jaw to keep him from focusing anywhere but him. Danny's lost in Ryan's ocean, drowning in an ending so beautiful it could make angels cry. Eye to eye, that feeling of undeniable rapture comes, and Ryan is the first to cum, submerged by his climax, and Danny follows, emptying himself inside his boyfriend.
Danny's head falls to Ryan's chest, and Ryan's hands glide up his back, caressing his rising and falling shoulders. They're flushed, exhausted, pleased, and intoxicated, silently riding out the inescapable high together. A hum reverberates from Danny's chest as he lifts enough to see Ryan staring back at him with a blissful smile, leaning in to kiss him.
"You owe me a shirt," he teases, glancing at his stained shirt, both hands planted into the mattress, his cock still hard inside Ryan.
Ryan chuckles, grabbing the hem of Danny's shirt and pulling it over his head. He tosses it into the trash and returns his hands to his waist, hips rocking into Danny's, prompting him to groan.
"There. Now, I can make you my work of art."
X
"Take off your clothes."
There's something so animalistic about the way Fitz says these four words. He's the predator searching for his prey, and with Olivia in his sights, she's aware of what is bound to happen. She can feel it throughout her petite frame, including her oasis, which he's dying to feel again.
"Slowly." He adds. "I want to see you."
Olivia shudders, undoing the buttons to her jacket and revealing her supple breast. It pains him not to take her, admiring her perfect areolas and aroused nipples. He hums, placing his hand on his arousal protruding against the fabric of his pants. There's hunger in his eyes.
She removes the jacket, exposing herself to him in full. His mouth dries like sandpaper, drinking her in with his gaze. She's divine, the lights complementing her beautiful skin. Olivia's undoubtedly perfect, and the smile on her lips lets Fitz know she's aware of her prowess.
He massages his erection, watching as Olivia moves to take off her skirt. She does it nice and slow, swaying her hips as she removes the belt, allowing the piece of clothing to fall to her feet. She steps out of it and kicks it aside, her hands roaming over her body, taunting him.
The only thing she has left is her black thong that hugs her body just right, but she opts out of removing it, knowing he would love to do the honors. A smile leaves Fitz's face, beckoning her to come closer with a finger. And she does, feeling the air get thicker.
He grabs her hips when she's close enough, pulling her flush against him. The suddenness of his touch elicits a moan from Olivia's lips. His erection rests against her stomach, fighting against the fabric to be free from the restraints. Soon, it will be. His lips to her ear, he whispers.
"Turn around and bend over the desk." He commands, letting her hips go and stepping aside. He unbuckles his pants and zips them down fluidly, freeing his erection from its restraints.
Olivia obliges and assumes the position, approaching the desk and bending over it. Her hands travel to the edges, grabbing onto them to brace herself for what's to come. From behind, Fitz admires her, his fingers grazing up her spine, sending chills throughout her entirety.
"You're so beautiful." He murmurs, pressing himself against her, leaning over her frame, and burying his face against her neck. The heat from her cunt entices her, engulfing his cock resting perfectly between her legs, rhythmically tapping against her folds with every pulse it makes.
Olivia moans, spreading her legs to fit him. Her entirety is on vibrate, and there's no escaping him. Her hips rock back against his, eager for him to fuck her. Fitz's hips move in tandem with hers, sucking the sweet taste of her skin as he carefully slides her thong down her legs. She steps out of it for him, and he smiles. It's damp, and the scent of her is so irresistible. Like honeysuckle on a spring day, she captivates his senses, waking up the animal inside him.
"Fuck me." She begs.
A hum reverberates from his chest as he marks her neck, taking hold of his cock and pumping himself behind her. He grabs her waist with his other and plunges inside her oasis. He can't see Olivia's face, but he knows she's in heaven, for he is, too. She clenches around him, her features inebriated with pain and pleasure as he stretches her.
He leans over her, needing to taste her while fucking her. He keeps his pace steady as he curses against her skin. She's inviting. Like liquid gold, her cunt engulfs his cock in her nectar, making it hard to focus on anything else. And when he dives deeper into her oasis, she moans aloud for him, resting her head against the desk.
Her moans were like music to his ears, a song he'd play on loop forever. The uncontrollable desire she has for him prompts him to move harder and faster inside her. The desk rumbles with each thrust, and in reaction, Olivia swipes everything off the top of it, unable to control how her body reacts with him inside her.
"Harder." She wants more.
He groans aloud, fucking her like he's never fucked her before. He removes his hands from her waist and wraps them around the back of her neck, drilling into her. She whimpers for him, mumbling soft curses and praises that turn Fitz on beyond ordinary means. There's a new fire inside of her, and it's enticing.
Her hands smash on the desk, her breathing labored, and her moans draw him close like a siren. He can't escape the pull as he moves even deeper inside her. Her cunt is so silky and constricting that he finds it harder and harder to remain in control and not fall victim to her paradise. But it might be too late.
Fitz pulls Olivia up to his chest in a fluid motion, wrapping his arms around her petite frame. He's relentlessly taking her in this position, kissing her, and letting her moans rain into his mouth. She cries out for him, and he for her. The walls are closing in, and before they realize it, the tide comes crashing.
Olivia throws an arm back, grabbing Fitz's nape. She can feel the pressure boiling inside her as her legs begin to buckle. Fitz slipped a hand to her vice, two fingers massaging her pulsing pearl. The assault on her cunt is unbearable, and standing on the cliff's edge, Olivia reaches her orgasm, jumping into the abyss.
Fitz watches her go through the motions, groaning into her ear as he empties himself inside her. They breathe as one, feeling the fire take control as they venture into the abyss together. He smiles against her cheek, leaving kisses all over, caressing her frame.
"You're going to be the death of me, woman." He murmurs.
She hums. "I'll make sure it's peaceful."
X
It's leaving day for Vermont, and Olivia and Fitz couldn't be more excited. After the couple's night together, they knew this trip would be what they needed for their growth as a couple and as separate entities. Together, they head toward the Oval Office hand in hand and side by side.
Olivia stuns in a midnight blue Altuzarra midge corduroy jacket and matching, alder stretch-cotton corduroy kick-flare trousers from the same designer and beige Christian Louboutin Pigalle 100 patent leather pumps. She rests her head on Fitz's arm, smiling, admiring.
"You look nice in Tom Ford suits." She compliments his navy-blue Prince of Wales O'Connor suit and brown loafers from the same designer. "Especially in this color. Brings out your eyes."
"Thank you, beautiful." He smiles, pressing a soft kiss upon her head. "You always look gorgeous, so that's no surprise there."
"Flatterer."
"Every beautiful woman needs a hype man." He chuckles, as does she.
"Please." She laughs, gently nudging him with her shoulder. "Are you excited?"
He snickers, pressing yet another kiss upon her head.
"I am. I'm surprised I fell asleep."
"You didn't have a choice in that matter. Not after what you did to me in the oval."
"And I'd do it again and again and again." He laughs, hands moving to her waist as they stop outside the Oval Office door, gauging her demeanor.
"This is your chance to back out now."
"Oh, shut up." She playfully smacks his chest. "I'm not going anywhere but to Vermont. So, now that that's out of the way let's make sure everyone else is ready."
He cups her face in his hands and kisses her deeply. "After you, my lady."
She smiles, stealing another kiss from his lips before entering the oval with him following suit, attracting the attention of Abby, Cyrus, David, Huck, and surprisingly Quinn.
"Hey, how is everyone?" Olivia asks, moving to sit on the corner of Fitz's desk as he moves to stand beside her. "Are you all ready?"
"As ready as we'll ever be." Cyrus answers, "but we're good. I speak for the group when I say that."
"I'm not doing so good," Quinn says, attracting stares. "What? I'm just hungry, my goodness."
Olivia chuckles, whereas the others heave sighs of relief.
"Maybe Fitz can have someone bring you some food. It's a long helicopter ride."
"Don't worry about it." She manifests a small smile. "I plan on eating him out of his home, so this is me working up my appetite."
"That works too." She smiles, glancing up at Fitz and then at the others. "Where are Marcus, Ryan, and Danny? Anyone heard from them?"
"Ryan is on his way," Huck states, chuckling. "We're sending each other memes now. He has some pretty good ones I've never seen."
"Is that all you two do is send memes to each other?" Quinn inquires, brows raised, smiling.
"No. We text about a lot of things. He's an excellent friend."
"Awww, replacing us already." Abby quips.
"Out with the old, in with the new." He says, lifting his gaze from his phone.
It's silent at first, but Olivia is the first to crack, bursting into laughter, followed by the others.
"I'm kidding." Huck snickers. "I love you all."
A collective 'aww' sounds off, followed by Abby's phone beeping.
"It's Marcus. Says he'll be here in five."
"Perfect," Fitz says, placing a hand on Olivia's lower back. "So, is it going to be-?"
"I'm sorry we're late, everyone," Ryan announces, entering the Oval Office dressed in a black Fendi logo-appliqué cotton-blend hooded sweatshirt, black, slim-leg FF-trim trousers, and brown, exaggerated sole suede lace-up boots from the same designer.
Danny follows suit, dressed in an all-white Givenchy Paris destroyed hoodie, matching sweatpants, and grey and black Jaw low knitted sneakers from the same designer.
"I had to make sure I packed enough stuff. It's freezing in Vermont." He continues.
His words pull soft chuckles from everyone's lips as they all move to greet both him and Danny with warm, welcoming hugs. Nothing like the calm before the storm.
"Huck tells us you two text," Quinn says with a smile, glancing over at Huck.
"They text all the time." Danny chuckles, moving to sit on the couch, pulling Ryan onto his lap, wrapping his arms around his waist.
"I think he texts Huck more than his boyfriend."
"Well, I'm probably funnier," Huck jokes, laughing to himself, prompting everyone else to laugh with him.
"Ooh, burn." Ryan snickers, giving Huck a hi-five. "No, but I don't need to text you that much because you're always around now."
"But I'm funny, right?" He pouts, resting his chin upon Ryan's shoulder, focusing his gaze on him.
"The funniest." A smile, pressing a soft kiss upon his lips.
"I just realized that there're way too many couples here." Cyrus quips, chuckling afterward, as does everyone else. "Where is Mr. Walker?"
"He's here." He says, entering the oval, his demeanor a little off. He fixes his attention on Ryan and Danny and then Olivia, "but before we go . . ."
"Marcus," Huck warns. "Don't."
"Are we missing something?" Olivia asks, perplexed by Marcus's demeanor. The black cloud is cascading over him. "Huck?"
"It's nothing." He answers quickly, glancing at Abby and Quinn, who looks away when Olivia looks at them. "Just forget it."
"What is going on here?" Fitz asks, noticing the change of vibe. "Is there something you want to say, Marcus?"
All attention goes back to him, and he tucks his phone into his blazer pocket.
"Yes, there is something I want to say." His jaw clenches, fixing his gaze on Olivia. "Why the hell did you and your brother ruin Mellie?"
Indifference manifests in Olivia's features, not expecting that question. On the other hand, Ryan hears the question but continues his conversation with Danny.
"What do you mean by ruined Mellie?" She asks. "She got everything she deserved."
"You're only saying that shit because she's no longer in your way!" He retorts, word venomous. "She worked hard to get where she was, and you took that away from her. For what? Fitz?"
"Watch your mo-" Fitz attempts to approach Marcus, but Olivia's hand on his chest stops him.
"Is this really the game you want to play, Marcus? Because I don't think it is."
"Oh, it is the game I want to play, Olivia. So, please, why don't you tell me why you and your brother concocted some asinine plan to ruin her?"
She chuckles. "Asinine plan? That's an interesting take. So, you would rather Mellie keep her position of power even with all the dirty deeds she was doing behind my back and the republic's back as well? Not to mention her plan to overthrow Fitz, whose term is at its end. This hill is not where you want to die, Walker. Stop while you're ahead."
"You might be able to spin this to make you look good, but-"
"I don't have a reason to make myself look good." She counters. "I went through hell, enjoyed hell, and I'm now making amends for my actions. I admitted my wrongdoings and apologized to those I hurt along the way. And although I still have work to do, I will not sit here and allow you to judge me because if you cared about Mellie as much as you claim now, you would've run her campaign the night she texted you instead of being her unofficial mouthpiece today."
Ryan snickers at Olivia's words, making Marcus more heated than he initially thought. So, he turns his attention to Ryan, which worries Huck, for he knows what Ryan is capable of, having witnessed it firsthand.
"Something funny, Ryan?"
"Yeah." He answers. "You."
"I ought to." Marcus steps closer in a way that doesn't still well with Danny, who quickly moves Ryan from his lap and moves to his feet.
"Not happening, pal." He says, stern in his stance. "You want Ryan; you'll have to go through me."
"Everyone, stop!" Fitz exclaims.
"No, no. It's fine." Ryan moves to his feet, placing a hand upon Danny's shoulder, giving him the okay to step aside. "Mr. Walker here clearly wants his fifteen minutes of fame, so rest assured, I will give him just that."
"You may have everyone wrapped around your finger, but I've met many people like you. You hide behind some false sense of entitlement and power when in reality, you're nothing but a chump."
The tension around the room grows thicker the more prolonged this discussion is, and not even Fitz can stop it. It seems like the Vermont trip is starting in D.C.
"This coming from the guy who screams black power at the top of his lungs but finds himself going up for a white woman who's cancer to this nation." He scoffs.
"I would be happy to pull up the proof of what Mellie has done, or you could just turn on the news and see the entire world taking her on a much-deserved trip down the rabbit hole."
Marcus shakes his head. "Men like you are all bark and no bite."
"I'm sorry to break your streak of confidence, but you haven't met anyone like me. If you did, you'd be six feet underground." He promises.
"It's so strange how everyone else is to blame every time something goes wrong. Olivia and I didn't do anything but release the information. Take this bullshit up with Mellie."
"Marcus. Enough!" Abby intervenes.
"It's not enough." He steps closer to Ryan, sizing him up. "I want to know what you did since you're so big and bad."
Ryan folds his arms across his chest, remaining firm in his stance, unfazed by Marcus's feeble attempt at having a moment.
"I killed Jake Ballard in cold blood, and not even a whisper got out about it. So, do you really think this is a fight you'll win, Mr. Walker?"
The admittance shocks everyone aside from Huck, Danny, Olivia, and Fitz, who already knew this information. Not only that, it sends an ominous chill down Marcus's spine, but he tries his best to remain unaffected.
"You don't scare me." His jaw clenches, balling his hands into fists.
"Try me. And I'll make sure you cease to exist just like your little girlfriend's career."
"That's enough!" Fitz exclaims. "This is not what we're here for!"
Filled with uncontrollable anger, Marcus attempts to lunge at Ryan but instead finds himself in a headlock brought on by Danny, who moves him to the other side of the oval. Ryan doesn't flinch and remains unbothered while Marcus huffs and puffs only to fall short, realizing he can't escape the headlock.
"Tell that to the man making an unnecessary scene." Ryan retorts, moving to sit back down. "I was fine until he approached me with some bullshit about Mellie."
It's a mess. This day wasn't supposed to start negatively. One thing is clear; however, this vacation is something everyone needs.
"Fitz, can I have a minute?" Olivia asks, watching as Quinn, David, and Danny try to calm Marcus and Huck, and Abby and Cyrus tend to Ryan. His demeanor is the same as it was.
"I thought you'd never ask." He grabs her hand and leads her out of the oval, closing the door behind them.
She glances up at Fitz, hands rubbing against his chest, emitting a sigh. There are no words between them, only Fitz wrapping Olivia in his arms and her forehead resting against his chest. They breathe in sync, eyes closed as they hold one another until the stress fades.
"Are you sure this is something you still want?" She asks in a whisper.
"It is." He answers. "When the storm calms, the sun will shine again."
She smiles. "And that's when the truth will set you free."
He presses a kiss upon her forehead. "I hope they don't tear each other apart before we get to Vermont."
"Well, we'll find out, won't we?"