A Winning Season Chapter 12, a scandal fanfic

Hey everybody, y'all all right? It's Friday! The weekend is upon us, and what better way to enjoy it than a new chapter of AWS.

Fitz and Olivia are moving right along in their relationship and everything is beautiful and great! Right? Come on, this is still Olivia Pope we're talking about, so I'm just waiting for the other shoe to drop. But for now, let's just be happy for our favorite couple.

So many of you are enjoying this story and I appreciate you letting me know with your reviews and PMs. I know the chapters can be long, verbose and quite descriptive, but I write what I want to read. It takes a little longer, because sometimes research is necessary. But the end result is a damn good story. And that is what I hope I'm giving you. So enjoy chapter 12, and let me know what you think.

Happy reading,

TBOT

P.S. Please continue to wear a mask, and keep yourselves and your loved ones safe.

The next morning...

Olivia awoke with the strong arms of her man wrapped around her. He held her tight and she couldn't move, even if she wanted to. Good thing she didn't want to. When he finally turned over, his eyes were still closed, and he was breathing deeply. Taking advantage of the situation, she leaned up on an elbow and studied his face, memorizing everything about him. His face was tanned, obviously from his time in Chesapeake Bay, and his curls were a little longer; the dark blonde brows, the thick lashes that lay against his cheeks, his proud, straight nose and the sensual curve of his mouth.

She got chills remembering what those lips had done to her body last night, and a smile spread across her face as she thought about their lovemaking that had lasted into the early morning hours. She had lost count of the number of times he had brought her to orgasm, each one more powerful than the last. She imagined the dull ache between her legs would be a pleasant reminder throughout the day of all they had shared.

Olivia looked toward the window and noted that it was still dark outside, and then she rolled over to check the time. The small clock on the bedside table read five-thirty. Her internal clock had awakened her for her usual gym time, but she'd decided, again, that she was going to skip her workout. Not because she was still upset with Joey and her brother, the revelation about their relationship had already faded into the background, but because she didn't want to leave the man lying in bed beside her.

Late last night...

After they'd used the two condoms that Fitz had in his wallet, and after she informed him that she had no protection in the house, she'd thought that that was it. But not long after, she'd felt him kissing her shoulder just as she was drifting off to sleep.

"Fitz," she whined. "We can't, we ran out of protection."

"I'm going to run down to the garage and get my bag out of my truck."

She moved away from him, covering her bare breasts with the sheet.

"Your bag? What bag?"

Pulling her back into his arms, he explained. "I always carry a change of clothes in a bag in my truck."

"Why?"

"It's a Grant tradition that goes back to my grandfather and his brothers. They never went anywhere without a bag with a change of clothes, clean underwear and toiletries. It's a man bag."

Olivia released a sigh of relief and Fitz frowned. "What? Did you think I came here tonight to specifically get into your panties?"

Olivia chuckled softly. "No. But a packed bag would've meant you intended to stay."

Fitz kissed her cheek. "You should be glad that I have it. It also has a brand new box of condoms in it."

Olivia grinned. "Then by all means, Mr. Grant, please go downstairs and retrieve your 'man bag' so we can finish what you started."

"I thought you'd see it my way."

Olivia watched as he got dressed to go down to the parking garage. Before he left the bedroom, he kissed her softly. "You need anything?"

She shook her head. "No. Just hurry back," she said, returning the kiss.

When Fitz returned to Olivia's condo, he locked the door and was on his way to her bedroom when he saw light coming from the kitchen. He dropped the chocolate leather duffle, unzipped it and removed the unopened box of condoms. Walking into the kitchen, he found Olivia leaning against the counter drinking a bottle of water. She was wearing a short robe and nothing else.

"I thought you didn't need anything but me?" he said, tossing the box on the island, and then walking over to her, putting his hands on the counter, trapping her between his arms.

She shrugged. "You were taking too long and I got thirsty. Besides, I don't think you have anything that can top this bottle of ice cold water," she said before taking a long gulp.

"Hmm," he murmured, moving his arms and wrapping them around her waist, pulling her directly against his growing erection. He lowered his head. "Let's see if I can prove you wrong," he said, removing the bottle from her hand and setting it on the counter and then lifting her in his arms, and tossing her over his broad shoulder.

Olivia squealed as he walked over to the island and grabbed the box. Laughing uncontrollably, she held on to his back as he carried her down the hall to her bedroom and dropped her in the middle of the bed. She lay back on the bed on her elbows, watching him quickly undress before joining her. He removed her robe, tossing it to the floor, and then moved over her, using his knee to push her legs wide apart so he could settle his hips in between her soft thighs.

"Now what were you saying about me not having anything better to offer than that cold water you were drinking?"

"You heard me, Mr. Grant. Prove me wrong," she challenged.

"Oh, I plan to, Miss Pope," he said as he lowered his head and slowly kissed his way down her body, like a man with something to prove.

Olivia smiled thinking of all he'd done to her. Oh yes, Fitzgerald Grant definitely had a lot of skills, and they weren't limited to the football field. He also knew just how to use them.

Still staring at him, she'd never wanted anyone so much in her life. Unable to stop herself, she leaned over and kissed him. When he didn't respond, she ran her fingers across his broad chest. He didn't stir and his eyes were still closed, so she let her fingers move farther down to the one body part that was definitely awake.

Slowly and careful not to touch him, she reached across him to the night table for a condom. Opening the packet, she gently pulled the covers back and his large erection stood at attention. Getting on her knees, she took her time rolling the latex down the length of him. He groaned, but still didn't open his eyes. When she finished, she straddled his large body and eased herself down onto his long, thick wood, inch by inch. She gasped as her already aching insides stretched to accommodate him, and didn't move for several long seconds, allowing her body to adjust to his size. Everything that was him filled her up.

As she slowly began to move, so did Fitz. His eyes were still closed as he gripped her butt and began to work his hips clockwise and counterclockwise.

Olivia leaned down and flicked her tongue over his nipple.

Fitz's eyes shot wide open. "Livvie!" He gasped loudly.

She smiled wickedly down at him and then pressed her hands into his chest as she continued to ride him.

When his hands cupped her perfect breasts and he teased her nipples with his thumbs, Olivia threw back her head and moaned in pleasure.

"I love the way you look right now," Fitz said barely above a whisper. "I love you on top."

Olivia could only nod as her head fell forward and her dark curtain of hair hid the expression on her face. The pleasure was so intense she bit her lip to keep from crying out.

Fitz gripped her hips, lifting her up and down, impaling her on him, an action that set core on fire and made her nipples pucker. Before long, she was rising and falling faster and faster, moving closer to the edge, then the room began to spin and she clung to his body as they moved together until his body jerked, jumped and stiffened.

Just when Olivia thought she couldn't take anymore, she moaned and the tremors began. Her body shivered as she yelled out his name, and collapsed against his chest. His dick was still pulsing inside her as they both tried to catch their breaths. Fitz wrapped his strong arms around her and she thought she could die like this, knowing she'd never been happier.

"What a way to start the day," he said into the quiet and then leaning down to kiss her damp hair.

Olivia chuckled and then lifted her head to kiss his chest. "You bring it out of me. I'm normally much more reserved."

"Then I'm happy I could help you bring out your inner freak."

Olivia laughed. Fitz was right, he'd brought out the inner freak in her that had been lying dormant for years. He'd awakened her sexuality and she couldn't get enough of him.

She sighed contentedly, and hugged him tighter. "I work out at least four mornings per week with Jo, but I don't think I've ever had a workout that intense before. I could probably sleep for the next seventy-two hours."

Fitz moved her hair away from her face. "Are you saying I'm the best you've had?" he asked, unable to stop the wide grin from spreading across his face.

Olivia chuckled and lifted her head. "Whoa there, Golden Boy, I was just saying it was the most satisfying and exhausting."

"Don't blame me if you're tired, Miss Pope. You're the one with insatiable appetite."

The smile on Olivia's face was quickly replaced with a look of complete shock. "I don't think so, Mr. Grant. You couldn't get enough of me."

Fitz kissed her forehead. "You're right. I can't get enough of you," he said as he hugged her close to him, and her head rested on his heart. He'd love nothing more than to spend the next few hours naked and exhausted, wrapped up in bed with Olivia.

Last night had ended better than he could've ever dreamed. Olivia had been the one to initiate taking their relationship to the next level, and then let herself go in his arms. When she'd held nothing back in her lovemaking, he knew they'd taken a huge step forward. They hadn't just made love, they'd connected on a deeper level, a place he hadn't gone with any other woman and he felt confident that they were building something with depth, substance and longevity.

They lay talking quietly for at least thirty minutes before Olivia lifted her head and glanced at the clock.

"What's wrong?" he asked.

"Nothing. We'd better get up and get ready to start our day."

Fitz hugged her, not wanting to let her go anytime soon. He wanted to tell her about what had been on his mind a lot lately but he didn't want to scare her away. He was thinking about them married, with two, maybe three children, living in a big house with a dog, and a pool in the backyard. One day, he thought.

Olivia kissed his chest then sat up. Swinging her legs over the side of the bed, she stood and stretched her tired, sore, toned and lithe body in the early morning light.

Fitz couldn't pull his gaze away from her naked body. There wasn't one straight line. She was all natural, and there was no need for any work to be done. Olivia Pope was natural and in your face real.

She turned and smiled at him watching her. After that brief moment of shyness when she bared her body to him for the first time, she was no longer self-conscious about anything. Besides, she figured after everything they'd done to and with each other, there was no use in being shy now. Winking at him, she turned and headed for her bathroom.

Another day had begun.

Later…

Olivia sat at the island in her kitchen with her chin resting on her palm. A mug of tea sat steeping in front of her. She bit her bottom lip to suppress a moan, while watching her man. Her eyes followed Fitz, taking in his bare, wide back, and the gray joggers riding low on his hips. Her legs automatically crossed to ease the throbbing between them at the memory of his hips pumping back and forth, bringing her endless pleasure.

After he'd given her repeated orgasms, she'd offered to make him breakfast, but he said 'no.' She wasn't about to argue with him when he insisted. He was already in the kitchen when she'd finished her shower, put on underwear and a long, silk robe. He'd wanted to join her but she knew if he did, she'd never get to work, so he'd used the guest bathroom. She walked in, hugged him from behind and kissed his back before preparing her morning tea.

There was a peaceful silence in the room as she watched him chop fresh spinach, onions and red peppers for their Florentine omelets, to go along with chicken sausage. Neither was feeling the the usual awkward morning after, instead they were both quite relaxed and lost in their own thoughts.

Fitz's ringing phone interrupted the quiet. Breaking eggs into a stainless bowl, he glanced over at her. "Can you get that for me?"

Stunned, Olivia almost choked on the tea she was sipping. She gave him a look. Were they already at a place where he felt comfortable with her answering his phone?

"Babe, whoever it is, is going to hang up if you don't answer it."

"Oh!" She quickly reached across the island to answer the device but was too late. "Sorry, maybe they'll call…"

Before she could finish, the phone rang again. This time she didn't wait for Fitz to ask her to answer it. She picked it up and when she glanced at the screen, her face paled. She shook her head and shoved the device in his direction.

"I'm not answering that."

Fitz turned around with a puzzled look on his face, and glanced down at the screen. He chuckled. "Seriously, Livvie? You're a little chicken," he teased before answering.

Olivia stood and went about collecting placemats, napkins and silverware for two place settings at the small breakfast nook just off her kitchen. She half-listened as Fitz talked to his mother, and whisked the eggs. From his end of the conversation, she gathered they were finalizing last minute plans during the elder Grant's absence. She thought she would faint at his next words. "I'm in D.C., making breakfast for Olivia," he said nonchalantly. "Yeah, I'll let her know."

It was almost eight in the morning. Did he have to make it so obvious that they'd spent the night together? Yes, she was a grown ass woman, and it was her home, but that didn't mean she wanted his mother to know they'd had sex.

She walked near Fitz to retrieve glasses from a cabinet and swatted his hand away when he tried to squeeze her butt.

"Stop," she mouthed so his mother wouldn't hear her in the background.

"Alright, Mom, I have to go." He was silent, and this time when Olivia walked by him, on her way to the refrigerator for the container of orange juice, Fitz didn't reach for her.

Now she was curious to know what his mother was saying. Whatever it was, it caused Fitz to stop his playfulness. She shifted uncomfortably in her chair from his blank expression.

It seemed like forever before the call ended. Once it did, Olivia started in. "Why did you tell your mother that we were together, at this hour?"

Fitz didn't immediately answer her. Instead, he smoothly slid an omelet onto the second plate and walked over to the table, placing a plate in front of her and the other at the place she'd set for him. Then he took a seat across from her and sat staring. She wasn't affected by penetrating gaze, and stared back at him refusing to look away. He didn't have to say a word for her to know that he was annoyed by her question.

Fitz was the first to look away. Truth be told, he liked that Olivia wasn't afraid to look him in the eye. She was neither intimidated by him, nor demure.

Finally he spoke. "Do you really care what my mother thinks?" he asked.

Olivia took her time before answering. After their amazing night…and morning, she didn't want to ruin the start of their day with an argument.

"Fitz, of course I care. Why wouldn't I? I don't want your mother to have the wrong impression of me."

She liked him too much to be perceived badly by his mother. Although they'd only met once, she would hate for their friendly relationship to be ruined because Constance Grant disapproved of her behavior.

Olivia rested her elbows on the table, closed her eyes and rubbed her temples. What would her mother think? Though she reminded herself that she was, in fact, a grown woman and didn't have to answer to anyone, it still didn't make her feel any better.

"Because I'm your boyfriend, and what goes on between us is our business," he said, breaking into Olivia's thoughts. Fitz continued eating his omelet. "Trust me my mother likes you too much to think badly of you."

After a few minutes, he noticed she still hadn't begun to eat. Sighing deeply, he set his fork on his plate and reached out his hand for her. "Come here, Livvie."

Placing her hand in his, Olivia stood and went the short distance to sit on his lap.

"Do you have a problem with my mother knowing we're dating?"

Olivia wanted to yell 'hell no!' Fitz was a caring and thoughtful man, and he was all hers. She didn't really care who knew. She shifted on his lap so she could look in his eyes.

"Of course not, Fitz. I just don't think she needs to know that we're sleeping together."

Fitz chuckled, wrapping his arms around her. "Livvie, we're adults and we're dating, I think it's assumed that we're having sex."

She smirked at him.

"And our relationship is our business."

Olivia nodded realizing the reason she was so upset was because she liked him, a lot, and didn't want anything or anyone to jeopardize what they were building together.

"But I respect your feelings and won't discuss our personal business with anyone."

Her fingertips stroked the stubble on his jaw. "Thank you, babe."

"Anything for you, Livvie."

She kissed his lips softly. "I've got to get ready for work."

"Take the day off," he said, gently rubbing her back.

"Some of us have to work twelve months of the year, Mr. Grant," she said smiling and pushing against his chest.

Fitz stared at her. "You're the most beautiful woman I've ever met. Inside and out."

A month ago, Olivia would've found what he said insulting, especially after seeing the women she'd seen him with, and those women parading around his pool party. How could he say that? But that was when she had no idea who Fitzgerald Grant was or what he was about. After watching him with his family, listening to him talk about his hopes, failures and dreams for the future, she found it easy to believe his words. What he said went beyond the physical; it was the bond the two of them now shared, and it was beautiful.

"Thank you, Fitz."

He nodded. "Now, how about I reheat the food and we finish breakfast so we get ready for our day?"

Olivia smiled. "Sounds like a plan," she said, standing to her feet.

Over an hour later, the couple stood in the foyer of the condo. Fitz watched Olivia as she looked in the mirror hanging above the foyer table, fixing the lapels of her cornflower blue Carolina Herrera suit jacket. The color looked great on her. The blazer and trouser combo was paired with a St. John silk tank in the same color, and the black leather belt in the pant loops, matched the black leather pumps she wore. She'd parted her hair on the side and fashioned it into a neat and understated bun at the nape of her neck.

The crime would definitely be worth committing if the prosecutor was as beautiful as Olivia Pope, he thought.

When she was satisfied with the way she looked, she turned to Fitz.

"I'm ready."

He walked up her and looked down into her face. "Will I see you later?"

Olivia thought of the pile of work on her desk, and the trial that would begin on Monday.

"I can't. I'm preparing for trial. As it stands now, I'm already two hours behind in my day."

Fitz nodded. "I understand."

Olivia could hear the disappointment in his voice. "I'm going to miss you," she said, reaching up and stroking his cheek.

He shook his head, chuckling. "I've never missed anyone except my family," Fitz said, "but I think all that's about to change the moment we part ways in the parking garage."

Olivia nodded but didn't respond as she watched him sling his bag over his shoulder, and then grab her leather attaché. He opened the door and allowed her to exit ahead of him. She activated her alarm from her phone and took his hand as they headed for the elevator.

Standing next to Olivia's car in the parking garage, neither of them wanted their time together to end. It had been an evening, and a morning that they wouldn't soon forget.

"I'll call you when I have some free time today. Okay?"

"Okay, babe." She gave him a brief kiss on the lips before sliding behind the wheel of the car, and he closed her door. Backing out of her assigned parking space, she drove away, watching him as he watched her leave the garage.

When the black Audi disappeared, Fitz walked over to the visitor's parking space, tossed his bag on the passenger seat of the Cayenne and climbed behind the wheel. He knew she was busy, but there was no way in hell he was going to allow the day to end without seeing her again.

"Good morning, Eric," Olivia said as she breezed into the conference room and took a seat at the long table, opposite the public defender.

"Hello, Olivia," Eric said cautiously. Receiving a call to move their nine o' clock meeting to eleven was definitely out of character for Olivia Pope. Her face was glowing and she wore a smile that he didn't ever remember seeing.

"I'm sorry for getting you off schedule today, but I just couldn't get to the office any earlier."

Olivia watched as Eric glanced back at the door and then around the room before turning back to her.

She frowned, wondering what was going on. "Is there a problem?" she asked, before organizing her case files.

"I'm just looking for the cameras, because this is not the Olivia Pope I know."

Olivia stared at him. "What is that supposed to mean?" She wasn't sure if she should've been offended.

Eric saw the look on her face and quickly continued. "Don't get me wrong, it's just that you're not known for your smiles and friendly demeanor."

"Really," Olivia said, pretending to be surprised by this information.

"No offense," Eric said.

"None taken," Olivia responded. She knew she'd shocked Eric, and several people in the building.

Earlier…

Olivia scanned the clothes in her closet and saw the light blue suit and many other pieces in different shades of red, yellow, orange, green, purple and blue. Items that she'd always wondered why she'd purchased in the first place. Most were Joey's suggestions. Now she was glad she'd listened to her best friend. Today was a perfect day to wear something from the side of her closet that she'd long ignored. Standing and staring at the suit, she looked around after hearing something, and didn't quite know what it was. Then she blushed and put her hand to her lips to cover her tiny smile, after realizing where the sound was coming from. It was her. Humming. Fitzgerald Grant had her singing like a bird.

Later, when she'd walked through the lobby on her way up to her office, she'd received several approving looks. Most of the people in the building were used to her elegance and class. She'd always been a stylish and well put-together woman, with her structured and sophisticated suits, pencil skirts and wide-leg trousers. She was professional and relatively conservative, with impeccable tailoring, classic lines and designer labels.

Olivia Pope had long preferred darker colors, mainly blue, gray and black, and still managed to look feminine. But today, she'd moved away from those dark colors replacing them with the brighter and bolder choice of light blue. With the lighter shade, it was as if she was telling the world that she was a new person, in a new relationship with a beautiful man, she was happy, and even more driven and determined.

"Um, Olivia?" Eric said, noticing the faraway look in her eyes.

She looked at him. "I'm sorry, what did you say?"

Now Eric really looked around for the hidden cameras. Olivia Pope did not daydream or zone out. "I asked about the Ballard case. Do you think we can plea this out?"

Olivia smiled and opened the file. "Let's take a look."

Thirty minutes later, Eric decided that whatever was going on externally with the brilliant AUSA sitting across from him had in no way affected her internally. She was still just as tough today as any other day. Her legal mind, her positions and her bargaining skills were still top notch.

"Come on, Olivia. It's our last case. We've already been at it for two hours. It's his first offense. One-year probation."

Olivia sighed, giving him a look of disbelief. "He beat up a man, Eric," she countered. "One year and anger management class."

"They were fighting, Olivia, and as a matter of fact, looking at the photos, he got his butt kicked. He's been sitting over at Metro for almost four months. Time served and the class."

"Six months, the class and one year probation."

"Fine," he said, before standing and tossing his files into his briefcase.

"Fine," she said, standing and gathering her belongings.

He held the door open for her to exit, and walked out behind her. As they went their separate ways, he stopped and turned.

"Olivia?"

"Yes?" she said, glancing back at him over her shoulder.

"Don't know what it is, but it looks good on you."

Olivia smiled, shaking her head, and continued walking to her office. If only you knew, buddy.

Olivia was on the phone with Fitz, laughing and blushing, when there was a knock and Joey opened the door and entered, closing it behind her. He had called to check on her, and she was happy to hear his voice before she left to run an errand. He was between meetings with his team of representatives, otherwise, they'd be having lunch together since he wasn't sure when he'd be able to see her before Monday.

He was currently reminding her of everything they'd done most of the night and earlier that morning, wondering out loud when they'd get to do it again. His words made her body hot all over. The way he'd touched her, the things he'd made her feel…amazing didn't begin to describe it.

She hated ending their conversation before she was ready. Spinning her chair away from Joey, she spoke softly. "I'm not sure what time I'm getting out of here this evening, but I'll call before I leave."

"Please do, Livvie."

"I will."

"Goodbye, sweetie."

"Goodbye, babe."

Fitz ended the call and she took a deep breath before turning back to face Joey, who eyed her smugly.

"So, I haven't seen or heard from you since Sunday. What's going on, Liv? Are you still angry with me? Is that why you've skipped your workouts? Why didn't you call me to tell me about your date last night? Are we still friends?"

Olivia put her hands up to try to get her to slow down. "Whoa, wait a minute, girl. Slow down."

"I've been feeling really bad about hiding my relationship with Julian from you. It was just so new. Once we realized that all our fighting and disagreements was hiding a serious attraction, we were actually a little afraid, and didn't know what to do."

"It's okay," Olivia said. "I understand."

With Joey talking a mile a minute, Olivia could hear the distress in her friend's voice and wanted to put her mind at ease.

"It was like being hit by lightening," Joey said.

"So what happened? When did it happen? How did he…when did you?" Olivia had so many questions she couldn't get them out fast enough.

"We left dinner at Plume and talked for hours. By the time he left my house, the sun was coming up. We didn't talk for weeks after that, wondering if what happened between us was just a fluke. We finally agreed to have dinner again and we argued like crazy. But when he took me home, all pretense of hating each other disappeared once and for all, and we had another marathon conversation that night. We've been together ever since."

"Jo, I've honestly wanted you two to get together for a while now. I never brought it up because I knew you'd try to have me committed if I did, but I always thought you and J.P. would be good together if you would just stop going at each other long enough to see it. I always suspected that J.P. had some kind of interest in you, but he would never admit it. But I still knew, in my heart, that you would be perfect for each other," she sighed.

"Oh, please, Liv. You're full of it and you know it. You had to keep us from killing each other half the time," Joey said, laughing at her best friend's comment. Olivia's happiness was sweet, but there was no need to gloss over the earlier love-hate relationship between her and Julian Pope.

Olivia objected. "Unh-unh. That wasn't real animosity, and you know it. It was all that pent-up sexual frustration that made the two of you behave the way you did. And now you're in a serious relationship."

Joey nodded. "Please understand, Liv, I didn't want to tell anyone anything until we knew it was real, and it would last more than a couple of days," she said sincerely. "We would have told you sooner but it was months before we completely let our guards down with one another, and still, we weren't sure where it would lead. Julian is a great guy, but he can also be a bit anal. And me? Well, you know I would drive a man like that crazy. But somehow, it works."

"I'm glad."

"You are?" Joey said.

Olivia nodded.

"You have no idea how happy I am to hear you say that. We were so worried. I know you don't believe in instant attraction and the fact that two people who are right for each other can meet and come together…"

"You're wrong, Jo," Olivia said, thinking of last night. "I do believe."

"What!?" Joey said, wondering who'd kidnapped her cynical friend and replaced her with the woman sitting across from her. That's when she noticed. The beautiful light blue suit. Olivia Pope never wore bright colors to work. The glow and the smile on her face, and then the light caught the bracelet. She nodded, grinning. "Ohhh, that must have been some date last night with Fitz."

Olivia grinned wide. "You have no idea." She proceeded to tell Joey about her evening with her boyfriend.

When she finished, Joey was fanning herself. "Girl, you did good. That man is something else!"

"Honey, I did better than good!" They laughed and gave each other high fives before Olivia sobered. "And I really have you to thank for it."

Joey looked at her friend. Me? Really?"

Olivia nodded. "When I left your house on Sunday, I was so angry at both of you. You lied to me, and hid your relationship from me. You and J.P. kept me in the dark, and cut me out of your life."

"I'm sorry, Liv," Joey said. "Please don't be angry with Julian. He wanted to tell you months ago, but I convinced him not to."

Tears filled Joey's eyes and she reached for the box of Kleenex on Olivia's desk, removed a tissue and wiped her tears away.

"I spent the rest of the day crying and planning how I was going to punish you both. And then I realized my anger was misplaced. When something is new, I can understand trying to protect it so that it can grow, to see exactly where it's headed. I understand wanting to find out what could be without the prying eyes of the outside world."

Joey suspected they were no longer talking about her and Julian. "Is this what you have with Fitz?"

"For now," she said. "Once the season begins, who knows?"

"So what are you going to do about it?"

Olivia shrugged. "Nothing."

"Nothing?"

"I've decided not to worry too much about the future and live in the here and now."

"But you always worry, Liv," Joey said. "That's your 'thing.'"

"My 'thing?'"

"Yes," Joey said. "At the pool party, all you could think and worry about was 'what if someone recognizes me,' 'what could a younger guy possibly offer me,' 'how could someone with money, fame and fortune be worth my time?' Sometimes I think you just make up stuff to worry about."

Olivia grimaced. "Was I really that bad?" she asked, thinking back over the past month and all the things she worried about.

"Yes you were!"

Olivia laughed. "Well this is a new me," she said.

Joey smiled at her best friend. "I like her."

"I thought you would."

"Liv, do you realize that this is the first time we've both been in healthy relationships at the same time?"

"Is it? Wow, that's never happened before."

Joey shook her head. "Never."

"I'm really happy for you and J.P." She leaned back in her chair. "My best friend and my brother are in love," she said with wonder.

Joey was glad Olivia had finally come around. Before long, the two of them, who were as close as sisters, and who were also sorority sisters, could be sisters-in-law.

"And I'm happy you stopped fighting and let that fine man love you. Fitz is good for you. Don't mess it up."

Olivia chuckled. "I don't plan to."

"Good." Joey glanced at her watch. "It's close to one o' clock, have you had lunch yet?"

Olivia shook her head. "No."

"You wanna go grab something?"

"I'm sorry Jo, but I need to personally deliver an apology, that is long overdue. I have to go and talk to your boyfriend, who also happens to be my brother." She smiled, shaking her head. "I still can't believe it, but I saw the way J.P. was looking at you so I know it's real. That man is in love with you."

Joey tried to look coy, but failed. Instead she grinned. "Yeah. Ain't love grand?"

Olivia exited the elevator on the fourteenth floor of Pope, Pope and Associates, and continued toward her brother's suite of offices. There were offices for associates, legal secretaries, paralegals and their assistants, along with a conference room. There was also a private dining room, small gym and kitchen. Julian's large corner office also included a full private bathroom.

As she rounded the corner, she came to Gayle Parker's desk, a literal fortress that would have to be breached before anyone could gain access to Julian Pope. Gayle was his executive assistant, and the small woman, who was currently sitting behind her desk, was no pushover.

She looked up as Olivia approached. "Well, look who's here. How are you, Olivia? It's been a while since you came by for a visit."

"I'm great, but my schedule's been a beast lately."

Gayle nodded in understanding.

"I had a little free time so I came by to spend a few minutes with my big brother. Is he available?"

"For a while. Go on in."

"Thank you," Olivia said, before walking through Gayle's fortress and into Julian's open office. She took in the warm rich tones, mahogany wainscoting and the shelves of books, before her gaze landed on her handsome brother. The décor suited him. He sat behind his desk with his head buried in paperwork.

"Liv? Come on in."

Olivia didn't miss the brief look of surprise on his face before it turned into a huge smile.

Julian stood and walked around his desk, and Olivia smiled as she walked toward him. "Hey, J, I hope I'm not interrupting anything."

When he reached her, he pulled her into his arms and gave a tight hug. "Of course not. I always have time for you, baby sis."

Olivia playfully punched his arm. "Don't call me that. You know I hate it."

"I know you do," he said as he slid his arm around her waist and walked her farther into his office. He was so happy to see her. He knew that she was upset about finding out about him and Joey the way she did, but he also knew that once she had time to think, and process why they'd kept it a secret, she'd come around. "But I couldn't help myself."

Olivia chuckled as she sat in one of the comfortable leather chairs across from his desk. He sat in the other.

"So what brings you by, Liv?"

Olivia took a deep breath. "I need to apologize for Sunday. I'm sorry for the things I said to you," she said. "You didn't deserve that."

"Apology accepted."

Julian looked at his sister. "I know seeing Josephine and I together was a shock to the system. Hell, I still can't believe it myself sometimes."

She laughed.

"I love her with all my heart. It's taken me a little while to come to terms with it, but I have."

Olivia's eyes searched his face and all she could see was honest sincerity. Her big brother was in really love.

"And she loves you," Olivia responded. "She allows you to call her Josephine."

Julian chuckled. "That's her name. Isn't it?"

Olivia nodded. "Yes it is. But she hates being called by her full name."

"You're right. She doesn't like others calling her 'Josephine,' but I'm not others, and only I can call her that. Besides, it's a beautiful name, just like she is. It suits her well."

Olivia noticed the look on her brother's face.

"J, just seven months ago you'd sworn off dating. And now your nose is all wide open for Jo."

He remembered the trash he was talking. He even believed it. After so many failed relationships, dating no longer held any appeal. Until Josephine. She was worthy to hold his heart in her hands. And she did.

Julian shrugged indifferently. "I was wrong about Josephine…sue me."

Olivia laughed at her brother's comment. She'd missed talking to him, and to her best friend.

"Well, enough about me and my relationship with Josephine. He changed the subject. "You and Fitz Grant are officially dating, huh?"

Olivia nodded. "Yes, and it's going very well."

Julian crossed his leg over his knee. "I'm happy for you, Liv. When was the last time you seriously dated, or went out to dinner with someone and it wasn't business or family related? And dinner with Marc, after working late, does not count."

Olivia frowned. "Okay, I see your point."

"You give so much of your time to work. It's about time you dedicate a little time to yourself, and your personal life."

She nodded. Her brother was right, and she was working hard to change that, with Fitz.

"So after denying that there was anything going on between you two, turns out you really were interested in him after all."

Olivia smiled. "I don't really know what happened," she said. "I didn't like him at all when we first met. I thought he was arrogant, and football was so…so..."

"Foreign to you?" When she nodded, he asked, "So what happened to make you change your mind?"

"It may sound silly, but he didn't give up on me the way I did on him. He made me want to date him, to see what could happen between us."

Julian leaned back in his chair and smiled. "In other words, you didn't scare him off; instead, he took you on, and it's progressed very quickly, and quite nicely, from what I can see."

"And no one's ever pursued me that way. You know me. I need to be in the driver's seat, always in control. But he's not afraid of me, and..."

There was a brief knock on the door, cutting off what she was about to say. It opened and they both looked up to see Elijah Pope standing at the threshold. He glowed with pride when he saw his son and his daughter.

"Gayle told me that my beautiful daughter was in the building," he said in his booming voice, before stepping inside and opening his arms.

Olivia stood and walked into them. "Hi, Daddy," she said.

Julian stood watching them.

"Hello, baby girl," he responded, squeezing his daughter tight and kissing her forehead, as she wrapped her arms around her father's middle and hugged him tight.

Eli released her and lifted her chin so she was looking at him. "What brings you by today?"

Olivia smiled at her father. "I just stopped by to see J," she answered, glancing at her brother.

"Oh yeah? Nothing serious, I hope." He looked between his son and daughter with concern.

Olivia shook her head. "No, Daddy. It's nothing serious. I just hadn't seen him in a while."

"She missed me, Pop," Julian added, smiling at Olivia.

Eli knew there was more to the story. He also knew that they wouldn't share whatever it was with neither he nor his wife. But, he was happy they had each other to talk to.

"Well, I need to get back to my office. I'm preparing for trial."

"Oh yeah, how's it going?" Eli asked.

"I'm ready. Just making sure I have all bases covered."

"I'm sure you'll do well. You always do," he said, kissing her again.

"Walk me to the elevator?" she asked her father, and reached for her purse.

"Of course." He placed his arm around her waist and they turned to leave.

"Thanks again, big brother," she said as they walked toward the door.

"Anytime, little sister," Julian responded.

She glanced back and saw him pick up his cell phone. Probably calling Joey, she thought. Good for him.

A few hours after returning to her office, Olivia lifted her arms and stretched. She'd shed her jacket long ago. Leaning back in her chair, she massaged her temples. She'd been going non-stop for almost six hours. The office was almost empty and she hadn't had a thing to eat since the soup and sandwich she'd picked up for a late lunch. Opening her snack drawer to pull out the many take-out menus she'd accumulated, she smiled when she saw the cover of the commemorative magazine. Fitz smiled back at her.

They'd spoken briefly while she was in her car, and he was between meetings. She'd lamented about not being able to see him much over the next few days. He felt the same way, but he also knew she had a job to do. In two months, training camp would begin and they wouldn't be able to see each other as often as they would like. But for now, they'd take what they could get.

As the day went on, she'd tried to put him out of her head so she could concentrate on her work. It didn't work. Now that she was alone, and ready to take a much needed break, she let her mind wander back to last night and how he'd made her feel. His touch was gentle, his words were endearing and he'd treated her with such care.

Olivia was staring off into space when her cell phone rang, and she answered without checking the ID. She assumed it was Fitz.

"Hello?"

"I have been trying to reach you for almost a week. I've sent text messages and left voicemails. I called your office this morning and was told that you weren't in yet. What is going on with you?"

Olivia closed her eyes. "Hello, Mother," she said, kicking herself for not looking at the ID before answering the call. "Oh, me? I'm great. Thanks for asking."

"I've warned you about that smart mouth, Olivia Carolyn."

"Mom, I'm preparing for trial which begins on Monday, and I'm swamped. Did you want something specific or did you just call to be a bright spot in my day?"

"Why can't we get along, Olivia?" Maya asked without sincerity. "You're my only daughter and I love you. I just wish we weren't always at each other's throat."

Olivia refused to allow her mother to make her feel guilty. "Is everything okay, Mom? Did you need something?"

"Franklin Russell, one of your father's law school classmates, was in town for the weekend visiting his son. The young man is straight, single, child free and a Columbia Law School graduate. He works as a Chief of Staff for a Senator on the Hill. We wanted to have you two over for dinner, but that fell through when I couldn't reach you."

"And you wonder why we don't get along?"

Maya sighed. "Is is so bad that I want you to have more in your life than work? Is it bad that I want my baby to have babies? Is it so awful of me to want a wedding, bridal showers and baby showers? I've tried to introduce you and Julian to good people. What is so bad about that?"

Olivia heard the sniffles and rolled her eyes. It was Maya Pope's go-to guilt tactic whenever Olivia wanted her to back off of her matchmaking. Maya didn't want what was best for Olivia, but what was best for her.

Olivia sat up suddenly. She had an idea.

"Mom, how about Julian and I come over for dinner on Sunday?"

"Really?" Her mother's voice suddenly perked up.

"Yes, Mom. Really. We'll be there around four."

"That's wonderful. I'll see you on Sunday. I love you, baby."

"Love you too, Mom."

After the call with her mother ended, Olivia leaned back in her chair and chuckled. Toying with the bracelet on her wrist, she watched the diamonds catch the light. Smiling to herself, she thought of the memories they were creating together. Her mind instantly went to Fitz, and she wondered what he was doing at that very moment. Maybe her mother would get everything she wanted after all.

"I hope I'm the one who put that dreamy look on your face."

The deep voice startled her and she nearly jumped a foot from her seat. She put a hand on her chest, feeling her heart beat rapidly beneath it.

"Fitz, what are you doing here? You nearly scared me to death. How did you get past security?"

Fitz stood in the door of her office grinning. "Is that the best greeting you have for your boyfriend?"

Standing, Olivia walked around her desk to where he stood. Taking his hand, she pulled him farther inside her office and closed the door. Wrapping her arms around his neck, she stood on tip toe and gently kissed his lips, savoring his taste.

"Better?" she asked, smiling up at him.

"Much," he answered, giving her that lopsided grin.

Pulling a large brown bag from behind his back, that she hadn't noticed, he set it on the small round table in the corner.

"I know you have a lot of work to do, but you have to eat. I promise, once we're finished, I'll leave you to your briefs, summaries or whatever it is you lawyers do."

Chuckling, Olivia watched as he removed several containers, sauces, plates, silverware, and bottles of water and tea.

"Fitz, it all smells so good."

"I know you like Thai so I brought Tom Kha Gai, Pad Thai with chicken, Pad See Eiw with beef and ginger sesame steamed vegetables."

"Who's going to eat all this food?" Olivia asked as she reached for the small bottle of hand sanitizer on her desk, and squeezed a good amount into both their hands.

Fitz pulled out a chair out for Olivia to sit. "Thank you," she said.

"You're welcome" he replied before taking the seat to her right.

Reaching for a container of soup, he finally answered her question.

"Livvie, I'm a big man, don't worry, the food will be eaten. I lost ten pounds after the NFC Championship game loss, so I've got to put on weight."

Their dinner conversation began with a discussion about his weight loss and why. They also talked about her talks and apologies to both Joey and Julian. He was happy because he wanted her focus to be on their growing relationship, not worried about someone else's. She also told him about everyone's reaction when she showed up that morning, especially Eric Newman's. She told Fitz about him giving her knowing looks throughout their meeting because she couldn't stop smiling. As if he knew what she'd been doing all night and early that morning.

Fitz laughed and puffed out his chest. He had put that satisfied smile on her face.

Halfway through the meal, Olivia set her container of soup on the table, and looked at Fitz. "You never answered my question. How did you get past security?"

Fitz wiped his mouth before he answered. "When you're the starting quarterback for the Washington Football Team, an autograph and a selfie can go a long way. But don't worry, I still had to sign-in, show a photo ID and walk through the metal detector. After all of that, I was escorted to your office by one of the guards. I would never jeopardize your safety, Livvie."

Olivia leaned over and pecked his lips. "Thank you. I appreciate it."

Thirty minutes later, Olivia stood in Fitz's arms as he sweetly kissed her on the lips for a final time as they stood in the doorway of her office. The security guard had returned to escort him back down to the lobby and was waiting at a discreet distance.

"Call me when you get home."

"Yes, sir," she said, giving him a mock salute.

Fitz chuckled and began to walk away. He stopped and turned.

"Livvie?"

"Yes?"

I'm in love with you. "Don't forget."

I think I'm falling in love with you. "I won't."