Chapter 5
Fitz didn't know the first thing about being friends with a woman. They served one purpose in his life. To satisfy him. He had two close friends Drew and Chase. They had grown up together, graduated from the same college and graduate school. They were born into wealth. Their fathers were rich and powerful. They stood by him when his father died, offering him the support he needed. He trusted them with his life. When he took over Grant Industries, he immediately hired them. They split the duties of overseeing the foreign and domestic projects. Chase spends most of his time in London. Drew tackles the west coast. Fitz is primarily present in New York, but travels from time to time. They were having breakfast at their favorite restaurant in New York.
"Here you go, Fitz." The waitress blushed, placing the plate of food on the table. "I made sure the chef cooked your bacon just right. Hard and crispy."
"Thank you." He lifted his fork, keeping his eye contact to a minimal. He was eager to divulge in his favorite meal. French toast, scrambled eggs with cheese, and bacon.
"You banged her." Drew chuckled, wiping the side of his mouth with his white linen napkin.
Fitz sighed. "Change the subject. How are the wedding plans, Chase?"
"My fucking bank account is taking a hit. I just wrote a ten thousand dollar check for flowers. Fucking flowers!" Chase lifted his mug to his lips, taking a sip. "They better be dripping in fourteen karat gold for fucks sake."
Drew laughed. "You should have stayed single and stuck with our motto."
"Work hard and fuck often." Drew and Fitz chimed together, laughing.
"We were in college when we came up with that stupid motto. All we did was chase skirts. We're grown ass men now." Chase groaned, stuffing his mouth with hash browns.
"Grown ass men can still chase skirts." Drew grinned. "Don't bring my high down. I had a lovely night with a beautiful blonde."
Drew was the charming, playboy of the group. He could get any woman he wanted just by looking at her. Chase was quiet and observant. Fitz was flirty, outgoing and made women breathless. They certainly had no shortage of women. The dynamic of the group changed when Chase proposed to his girlfriend, Natasha. The long nights at the club ceased. Their conversations about women changed. Fitz had been determined to never settle down. Most of the women he met, wanted him for his last name and bank account. His phone vibrated on the table.
O: I need a place to work out and a buddy. Are you free? (Smiley face emoji)
"Morning quickie?" Chase inquired, sipping his coffee.
"No." Fitz cleared his throat. "A text from a friend."
F: Blaze. In an hour. Do you need a ride?
"Bullshit, Fitz. You look like you're about to explode." Drew chuckled. "It's a fucking woman."
Fitz tossed the napkin on his plate and stood. "It was a pleasure, gentlemen. Chase, I'll see you in London in a week." Fitz quickly finished typing on his phone. He couldn't get to her fast enough. He didn't sleep a wink last night. Thoughts of her underneath him plagued his mind. He jerked off twice and still wasn't satisfied. Their interaction in the club left him wanting more. She felt good in his arms. If it wasn't for some asshole pulling the fire alarm, he would have gotten his kiss. He was so close.
O: I have a ride. Thanks for asking.
F: See you soon…friend.
X
Olivia walked through the entrance of the gym wearing black leggings, a purple and black long sleeve crop top. His eyes roamed every visible curve, her round ass, petite hips, and full breasts. He licked his lips, adjusting his gray basketball shorts. "Fuck." He cursed under his breath. His eyes centered on the small jewel around her belly button and he wondered if she had anything else pierced. She was going to be the death of him. He was sure of it. Her hair was curly and bounced when she strolled to him wearing the biggest smile.
"Hi." She beamed, bumping her shoulders against his arm. Fitz was taller than her and he towered over her, making it easy for him to plant a soft kiss on her forehead. "Hi." He swallowed hard, inhaling her scent. It was soft and pleasant. A scent he wanted to wake up to every morning.
"What do you want to do first?" Olivia asked, taking a sip from her water bottle.
"Treadmill." He rattled off, placing his hand at the lower part of her back, dancing his fingers across her exposed skin. Olivia sucked in a breath. His touch was warm and electrifying.
"Good, I get to see your stamina." Olivia smiled up at him, stopping at one of the treadmills.
He gently trailed his thumb across her lips, whispering, "I can show you my stamina in other ways."
Olivia chuckled and pushed on his chest. "Behave."
Fitz ran at full speed on the treadmill. Sweat dripped from his forehead, landing on his white t-shirt, making it almost see through. Olivia eyed his physique from her treadmill. His legs were muscular, showing no sign of fatigue. If this was his stamina on the treadmill, she couldn't fathom what he'd be like in the bedroom. Olivia sucked in her breath and slowed her walking. She needed to move away from him. Get some space to breath. Her mind was filled with thoughts of sexual fantasies. He slowed the treadmill and lifted his shirt off, wiping the sweat from his forehead. She was gifted with the view of his perfect body. His abs were defined and grooved. She licked her lips eyeing the beautiful V shape that disappeared into his shorts. His suits covered entirely too much. She could get used to seeing him this way.
Fitz smirked when he lowered his shirt and caught her eyes lingering over his body. "See something you like?"
Olivia nodded.
He reached for her hand and lifted it to his chest, gliding it over his skin.
"Fitz." Olivia said softly. Heat rushed to her core. Her hand kept moving across his abs, outlining each groove. "So sexy."
"Yeah." He stepped closer, his breathing becoming heavy. "I normally don't try this hard to get a woman in bed. I like your approach, Olivia." He stopped her hand from moving and kissed the back of it. "Are your panties damp?"
"W-what?" Olivia murmured.
"I have my answer." He dropped her hand and walked over to the weight bench.
Embarrassed, Olivia strolled to the mirror and started a repetition of squats. If he wanted to tease her, she could do the same. With each bend, she moaned and glanced at him. He lifted a weight, curling his arm back and forth. His pupils flared. Raw hunger ignited and his features became primal. Olivia was playing a dangerous game and she knew it. Fitz groaned, dropping the weight on the ground.
He pulled himself up and over the chin bar, flexing every muscle in his body. Breathing with force. Demonstrating his strength. He was still shirtless. She'd switched from the squats to the leg press machine. Her eyes were on Fitz. Her clit throbbed with each press forward. She had to turn away or she was going to come. Fitz jumped from the bar, hitting the mat hard. He walked to Olivia and leaned to her ear, "I always win."
"I think we should call it a day." Olivia lifted the water bottle to her lips, sipping the straw. She was about to combust.
"Before we go, let me make you a treat?" He pushed his arms through a fresh white t-shirt and grabbed a towel, linking his fingers through hers. Olivia looked down at their joined hands. "What kind of treat?"
"Something that will cool you down." He chuckled.
Olivia jabbed his arm, laughing, following him the juice bar. Fitz was a natural behind the counter, slicing the bananas and strawberries with precision. A twinge of jealousy flowed through her and she wondered how many times he'd made the drink for a woman. He added the rest of the ingredients and pressed the button on the blender. He poured the thick drink inside a plastic cup and slid a straw inside the hole. "Enjoy." Olivia took a few sips, smiling at the impeccable taste, "very good."
"Glad you like it." He turned her stool to face him, pushing a lone curl behind her ear.
"I'm surprised the gym is empty." Olivia stated.
"I own this gym, Olivia."
"You amaze me, Fitzgerald. What else do you own?"
"Half of New York, London, and California."
"Show off." Olivia laughed, placing her smoothie on the counter.
He traced his thumb over her knee. "Have dinner with me tonight?"
Olivia swallowed hard. "Dinner?"
"It's just dinner between two friends. Say yes." His eyes were low like a puppy begging for a treat.
"Ok."
X
Olivia knew very little about Fitzgerald Grant III. There were tons of information about Grant Industries. Not much about Fitz's personal life. Every article had the same information.
Fitzgerald Grant III is the son of Gerry Grant and Laura.
Gerry Grant died five years ago. His wife Laura remarried philanthropist William Thornton shortly after her husband's death.
Fitzgerald Grant III became CEO of Grant Industries immediately after his father's death. Taking over all entities, including the businesses abroad.
He has an estimated wealth of 2.5 billion dollars.
He's been linked to some of the most beautiful women in the world. He likes his women intelligent, interesting and beautiful.
New York socialite Melody "Mellie" is known to be by his side. Neither has denied or confirmed an intimate relationship with each other.
Olivia screwed up her face. He's a billionaire. She glanced at the screen again. For fuck's sake. How many zeroes is that on a check? There were a lot of photos of him and Mellie attending events. Olivia enlarged each photo assessing their body language. The pictures didn't appear intimate. She sighed, rubbing her temples.Who was Mellie? Why was she important to him? The SUV stopped and she slid a fresh coat of lip gloss across her lips. Her phone chimed.
When you arrive. Let the hostess know you're a guest of Fitzgerald Grant. They're expecting you.
See you soon…friend.
F.
Turner opened the door. Olivia stepped out of the vehicle. "Thank you for keeping this between us." She hadn't told her aunt or uncle about Fitz.
He nodded. "I'm a call away, if you need me."
Olivia walked inside the restaurant and looked around. The restaurant was high end. A large crystal chandelier hung from the cathedral ceiling. White linen adorned each table. The men were dressed in expensive suits, while women dangled on their arms. The hostess appeared and greeted her.
"Hi, I'm a guest of Fitzgerald Grant." Olivia stated nervously.
The hostess nodded with a fake smile, escorting her down a flight of steps, through a double door. The loudness of the restaurant instantly disappeared. She opened another door that led to a room with a fireplace and a table for two.
"Would you like something to drink while you wait for Mr. Grant?" The hostess pulled out her chair and placed a menu on the table.
"Two shots of Tequila."
"That kind of night?" The hostess giggled.
The hostess disappeared. Olivia glanced around the room and spotted a black leather couch in the corner. The space was intimate. How many times did he entertain here? How many women did he fuck on that couch? Her hand shook as she flipped over the menu.
Fitz appeared, immediately walking to her, kissing the side of her neck. Her nervousness easily dissipated. He smelled heavenly, a mixture of his body wash and cologne. A touch of spice without being overpowering. It was intoxicating. Fitz wore a pair of navy slacks, a crisp white shirt and no tie. He slid in the chair across from Olivia. "You look amazing."
"Thank you." Olivia blushed, fiddling with the napkin on her lap. He looked divine. Very fuckable. No suit. No tie. His curls were just right.
The waitress appeared and placed the two shot glasses in front of Olivia. "It's so good to see you, Mr. Grant. What can I get you?"
"Scotch is fine." His eyes were fixated on Olivia as she guzzled down the two shots. "Nervous?"
"Very." Olivia answered.
"I don't bite, unless you want me to." He said in a raspy voice.
The waitress appeared and sat his drink on the table. She unrolled the white linen napkin and dropped it across his lap, licking her lips. Her cleavage was inches from his face.
"This bitch." Olivia mumbled under her breath.
The waitress flipped her blonde hair over her shoulder, running her fingers through her curly locks, attempting to get his attention. "Do you need anything else?" She rubbed his shoulder. Fitz was used to the attention and had learned to ignore it unless he was interested in the woman.
Olivia huffed, loudly. "I'm surprised she didn't take out your dick and suck it."
Fitz laughed, "you have a dirty mouth, Ms. Pope. I like it." He took a sip of his scotch and sat the glass on the table. "Is she bothering you?"
"She's flirting with you right in front of my face."
The waitress returned beaming with another glass of scotch for Fitz.
"We no longer need your services. Bring out the chef." Fitz stated. His tone sharp.
"I'm so sorry, Mr. Grant. Is there something wrong?" The waitress cut her eyes to Olivia, sucking in a breath.
"Your behavior is unprofessional." He snapped.
"Mr. Grant, my apologies." She stumbled out, hanging her head.
Moments later the chef appeared. "It's good to see you, Grant." He stated. Fitz stood and embraced him. "Sorry about Amanda's behavior. Good help is hard to find when they know it's you."
"Spencer, this is Olivia." Fitz introduced.
"Nice to meet you." He nodded.
Fitz patted Spencer on the back. "Best damn chef in all of New York."
"Grant, you're just saying that, because I feed you."
Fitz chuckled. "Hardly, my stomach thanks you."
"Are you having the usual?" Spencer asked.
Fitz nodded.
Spencer turned to Olivia. "And for you?"
"Salmon, rice pilaf, and the garlic string beans." Olivia replied.
"Coming right up." Spencer said, taking the menus from the table.
Fitz twirled the brown liquid in his glass. "Where are you from Olivia?"
"Georgia." She answered, flatly.
He took a sip. "You're far away from home. Why New York?"
She was going to lie and tell him she came to New York to find herself. It was always her dream to live in the city. Would he be uncomfortable if she told him the truth? Her sister died and she was on the verge of a mental break.She sighed, "my sister was killed in a car accident and I…" She held her head back, clearing her throat. Talking about Callie was still difficult.
He placed his drink on the table and reached his hand across the table. Olivia dropped her hand in his. His touch was warm, comforting. She blinked back the tears that threatened to fall. His blue eyes lowered, "I'm sorry. I know what it's like to lose a loved one."
Olivia gripped his hand tighter, connecting her eyes with his. He felt safe. She wanted to open up and tell him her whole life story. He had this comforting way about him. "I like New York."
"What do you like about it?" Fitz asked.
"The tall buildings, the hustle and bustle, and no one knows me. It's a breath of fresh air. I don't have to answer to my parents."
"Are you close with your parents?"
"Yes. Probably too close."
"Meaning?"
"My mother expects me to call her every day. Give her a highlight of my day and my plans for the next day. I'm grown. I wish they would treat me like an adult." Olivia huffed.
"She lost a daughter, I'm sure some of it is her grieving. Do you want another drink?"
"No water is fine. What about you? Are you close to your parents?" Olivia swallowed hard remembering the article she read about his father.
"My father is deceased. My mother remarried. End of story."
"Oh. Do you see your mom or step-father?" Olivia probed.
"I'm close with my mother. I tolerate William." His lip turned upward in disgust.
Spencer appeared, placing their meals in front of them.
Olivia quickly changed the subject. She watched as he cut up his meat and placed it in his mouth, savoring each piece. "Tell me something about you that's not on Google."
He leaned his elbows on the table, answered nonchalantly, "I enjoy giving a woman an orgasm."
She cleared her throat, almost choking on her food. He popped another piece of steak inside his mouth. "Don't believe everything you read on Google."
"Google is my best friend." Olivia grinned.
"It shouldn't. It's a lot of bullshit. I'm an open book. If you want to know anything about me, ask. I won't lie to you."
She was going to ask about Mellie but thought better of it. She was having a good time and didn't want his mood to shift. Spencer appeared and rested a small plate of chocolate covered strawberries on the glass table next to the couch. Fitz stood and walked to Olivia, offering her his hand. "Dessert?"
Fitz placed one leg on the couch and the other on the floor, pressing Olivia against his chest. His fingers danced up and down her arm. His breath was hot against her neck. "I would like to feed you, is that ok?"
"Mmhmm."
He lifted a strawberry and slid it over her lips. When she parted them to bite down on the fruit, he pulled it away. "Savor it, Olivia. This strawberry is dipped in the finest chocolate." She opened her mouth again and bit down. The chocolate hit her tongue first, then the sweetness of the strawberry exploded in her mouth. It was the best dessert she'd ever tasted.
"Good?" He whispered, offering her the next one. "Next to chocolate, strawberries are one of the most widely known aphrodisiacs."
"Is that so?" Olivia muttered, crossing her legs at her ankles. Her body was an inferno.
"Is it working?" He groaned against her neck.
"Fitz." Olivia whimpered, pressing her back against his chest.
He cleared his throat, groaning in her ear. "How many men have you been with?"
"Four." She answered.
"Do you enjoy sex, Olivia?" He asked.
"Yessss." Olivia hissed.
He offered her the next strawberry.
"And you? How many women?"
"Enough." He shifted on the couch. Adjusting his pants from his growing erection. "How is this friendship going to work when I fucking want you so bad?" He grazed his teeth over her ear.
Olivia slid from between his legs and turned to him. His eyes were heavy lidded and filled with lust. She looked away and then glanced back at him. He shifted her on his lap. "What are you afraid of?"
"I really like you, Fitz. There is no denying our attraction for each other. However, I want more than just sex with you."
No other woman had said those words to him. It was always about sex. Women craved to see him naked. She wanted more from him? He wasn't sure if he was capable of being in a committed relationship.
"I work a lot." He said simply.
She lifted his chin, "make time for me. Can you do that?"
"Yes, but I'll have to see you in private. The paparazzi will have a field day trying to figure out my intentions with you. You'll be plastered all over the news and the gossip sites. I won't have it."
His eyes were gray, smoky. She could tell he was barely holding on. "I'll see you in private."
"I'll only do this if we're exclusive. No other men. I can be a jealous bastard." He stated in a harsh tone.
"No other women." Olivia quipped.
"Done. My focus will be on you. Be patient with me. I'm probably going to fuck this up." He sighed against her lips.
Olivia stood and Fitz did the same. He pressed the last strawberry against her lips and watched as she bit into it. He pressed his lips against hers, tasting the sweetness of the strawberry. Olivia moaned into his mouth. The electricity between them crackled. "Please." He whispered. No man had ever begged her for anything. His voice was shaky, as if he was holding back everything inside him. Olivia sighed, allowing herself to completely melt into his embrace. She became boneless, seeking more. His tongue pushed inward, hot and sensual. Their tongues danced and twirled. He devoured her. His teeth grazed over her lips and nipped at the fullness. It was everything she could have dreamed and more.
Olivia wobbled and shook, stepping out of his embrace. "I should go." She rubbed her swollen lips.
He closed the gap between them, cupping her cheeks. "I don't want to stop, do you?"
Olivia wrapped her arms around his waist. "If we don't stop…" Olivia rested her head on his chest. "I'll lose all resolve."
He tilted her chin, gently pecking her lips. "I'll behave."
Olivia chuckled. "Next time, keep your strawberries and chocolate to yourself."
Fitz laughed, linking his hand with hers. He was willing to try things her way. If it was going to get him what he wanted.
Thank you for reading. Sorry for the delay in this chapter. Work and family life has been busy. I will try to update soon. Don't forget to leave a review.