Part II
Sunday afternoon…
"You good?" Julian asked his sister as he handed her a mug of hot tea.
Olivia nodded, and he leaned down and kissed her forehead, and then Joey's, before leaving them alone. She'd called her best friend and told her what happened and of course Joey immediately told her not to go home, but come to her place instead. When she got there she wasn't surprised to see her brother.
Julian and Joey had listened as Olivia recanted what happened. They both agreed that Fitz couldn't have known that his ex would be there or that she would confront Olivia. She wasn't expecting them to get all defensive on Fitz's behalf and was at a loss for words. But they also agreed that as soon as he saw her, he should've told Olivia, especially after his run-in with the woman.
They discussed Fitz's initial response, that it didn't matter, and how it reeked of a privileged white guy who wasn't as familiar with racism as he thought he was. He needed to further educate himself on the anti-Black racism that exists, even among his friends and teammates, to really prepare for dating a Black woman.
Julian had also given them a male perspective. To most men, the entire situation wouldn't have been a big deal, which is why Fitz responded the way he did. But because he was a white man, it could be construed as being insensitive. He explained that sometimes the issue has more to do with gender differences than the differences between races, which is a completely different ballgame.
"Liv, luckily you have a boyfriend who's a quick study and who's willing to confront those close to him and if necessary, go to war for you, the woman he loves."
Olivia nodded. "Yes, he loves me. But do I really want to expend energy teaching him about racism or dealing with derogatory comments from his friends, teammates and others?"
"I think after this incident, you won't have this problem anymore. Fitz is a good and decent man, and he would never knowingly do anything to hurt you."
"I know, Jo. And I don't want to give any of this too much energy. But the things that woman said, it made me..." She sighed.
"Liv, that woman and most of the women who hate you don't give a damn about Fitz. And if they do, who cares? You know he's in love with you."
"I'm not saying he isn't. But that entire situation with her was about the reality of what she lost and what I have. That's the only reason she said something to me in the first place. But then she took it there. Of course I know he's not interested in her. It's easy to move on when it's out of sight, out of mind, but seeing Fitz and me, a Black woman, together, obviously triggered something in her. That's not my issue. My issue is he should've told me she was there."
Joey nodded. "I agree, but Liv what's done is done. Now what?"
Olivia bristled at Joey's comment. "Now nothing. I just need a minute to breathe."
"Well don't breathe too long, especially when you have a man as fine as Fitz, who doesn't care that the world knows how he feels about you."
"Jo, you're missing the point. A man is a man, and no matter how much Fitz wants me, it's bigger than us being together, in a relationship. You should see the things they're saying about me. They all have the nerve to judge me, when they don't know anything about me."
Photos from Family Day were posted all over social media. There were pictures of Olivia and Stephanie, side by side, comparing the two, and the comments were horrid.
Of course Joey was well aware of the racism and prejudice Olivia had been dealing with. "Why do you care?"
"Because my life has always been in order and private, and being with him could tip over everything I've carefully built. Now that I'm dating Fitz, it's being scrutinized by everybody. I didn't ask for this, and I don't want any of it."
"But you want Fitz."
Olivia stared at her best friend then took a sip of her lukewarm tea. "I do. But I don't want the spotlight that comes with being with him. People camped out in front of my home and office. I can't live like that. I also don't want people to think that I'm with him for his money or his social status. I just want to love him."
"Then do that and stop stressing over things that you can't change, like your skin color. Fitz loves you for you. He told you that he would take care of the situation with that strumpet, so let him."
Olivia laughed at Joey's word choice.
"Seriously, Liv, you don't owe anyone any explanations," Joey said. "This is your life. Do what makes you happy. Even after explaining why you love him, you still aren't going to get some people to understand."
"I don't know, Jo. I'm not sure I want any of this in my life."
"The question is, do you want him in your life, Liv?" Joey gave her a pointed look. "That's what you have to ask yourself."
X
Sunday evening…
Fitz stood outside the door to Olivia's condo for about ten minutes before he finally rang the doorbell. After about a minute, she answered.
"What are you doing here?" She looked exhausted, her eyes were puffy and red, and as tough as she tried to be, he could see straight through her.
"You didn't answer my calls or texts. I needed to make sure you were okay."
They stood in the foyer staring at one another before Olivia caved. Fitz reached out and lifted her into his arms, and carried her to the sofa. Sitting, he pulled her onto his lap while she sobbed into his neck. She cried while he cradled her in his arms, caressing her back in slow, tender circles.
Fitz didn't know how much time had passed, nor did he care. His only priority was that she knew he was there, and that she could fall apart with him as many times as she needed.
"Fitz, there are people out there who hate me because I had the audacity to date and fall in love with you."
"I know."
"It's not just your ex," she continued through her tears. "I made the mistake of reading some of the comments from the photos taken at Family Day, and they made me nauseous. At least Stephanie said what she had to say, to my face."
Fitz hugged her tighter.
"They're saying that we're inappropriate for each other and calling me a gold digger, out to get your money."
"They don't matter. We know the truth. Don't worry about what anyone else is saying."
"It does matter, Fitz," she said. "T.C.'s going to see it and…"
"Hey, hey," he said, pushing a strand of loose hair behind her ear. "T.C. will be fine. You haven't done anything wrong, and she'll know that."
No matter what Fitz said, Olivia continued to cry. He appreciated that she cared about how what was going on in their relationship would affect T.C., but right now that was the least of his concerns.
Olivia crying hysterically over things she couldn't control angered him. But right now all he could do was hold her and promise her that none of it mattered. He was there with her and he wasn't going anywhere. She was going to okay because he was going to make sure she was. He kissed her softly and allowed her to get it all out.
X
"Feel better now?" he asked and kissed her head.
"No." She sounded like a petulant child and Fitz laughed.
"So I'm not helping at all?"
She nodded. "Yes."
"Then you should feel better."
Olivia put her arms around his neck. "You always know what I need, and when I need it. Why did you decide to come and see me?"
"I called Joey when I couldn't reach you."
She leaned back and looked at him.
"She only told me that you had been by and that you were upset. That's when I decided to come and check on you."
Olivia sighed. "I told her I was fine."
"And she's your best friend, she knew better."
She groaned and Fitz chuckled.
"Do you have a publicist?"
Olivia frowned. "No. Why would I need one? This is all new to me."
"I'll call mine."
She laid her head on his chest and sighed. "What difference will it make? In the past two weeks, I've gone from being a nobody to being a scheming gold digger and groupie, who's only dating you so you'll take care of me."
Fitz had forgotten how much damage one photo could do. People were willing to believe every version of a lie they were told, allowing others to think for them. Others being the gossip blogs. Someone was feeding the blogs, and he was sure he knew who.
"They're calling me a jezebel, Fitz, and saying that I'm probably cheating on you."
"It's all bullshit. I know you're my girlfriend, and mine only." He looked at her. "Lies are easy to believe because the world wants to see the worst in people. What would be the fun in believing that two people love each other, without drama?"
"I love you Fitz," she said, resting her head on his wide chest again.
His hands moved down her back to her ass, and squeezed. "I love you too, Livvie. And I'm going to take care of the Stephanie problem beginning tomorrow."
Olivia sat up again. "How?"
"I have a meeting with team management tomorrow morning to make sure she doesn't step foot on any Football Team property ever again. And then I'm going to address the team behind closed doors. Stephanie attended yesterday's event as a guest of the punter's girlfriend. I don't know if Adam knew what she had planned, but what she did to you will not be tolerated by anyone in our organization. It was one thing for her to approach me, but she crossed a line with you, Livvie. The racist language, social media trolls, reporters and photographers hounding you will all be addressed."
"Fitz, I'm not…"
"Livvie, I'm going to let my teammates know that my personal life is not up for discussion with anyone, especially the media."
"Are you sure about this?"
"Don't do that. Don't pretend that this is not a big deal to you. It is, and I don't think it's too much to ask, especially when I tell them why. You shouldn't be subjected to behavior like Stephanie's or anyone else that feels and thinks the way she does. Ever."
Olivia smiled up at Fitz, and he leaned down and pecked her lips. He would contact his publicist later, hoping she would figure out a way to spin all of this. It was possible she would advise them not to do anything and just wait for things to die down, or she could have ideas about how to change the narrative.
If it was just him he wouldn't care, and T.C. was old enough to know what was real and what wasn't. But because Olivia was now in his life, he was willing to do whatever it took to make her life easier, and to make sure that she didn't have another meltdown like the one he'd just witnessed.
"You are the most important person in the world to me. When I wake up in the morning, you are the first thing on my mind. Are you safe? Are you happy? It is my job to know these things. You have no idea how it guts me to see you in tears over something I could've prevented."
He watched her as his words sank in. "This thing that we," he lifted her chin and pointed between the two of them, "are going through, affects us both, and we'll work it out together."
Olivia nodded and pushed her hands under his t-shirt, and started to rub his chest. He rubbed her back with one hand, while the other massaged her scalp.
"Yesterday was really eye-opening for me. I had never had a personal connection to something like that, and after taking some time to process everything, I'm still shocked, and angry. I am also very sorry that I didn't think, or take seriously, how her presence would affect you."
Olivia listened, glad that Fitz appeared to be receptive and open-minded to learning, and understanding what this all meant for her. He still had a lot to learn though.
"As a white man, who also happens to be your boyfriend, and also one who holds the power of unearned privilege, it is my job to find ways to use it to support and protect you, Livvie. It is also my responsibility to listen, learn and most importantly, show up and fight for you. And I will always do that."
She leaned up and kissed him. "Thank you, baby. You know, we are really lucky in the fact that we both feel we understand each other's perspective on things. I'm not sure if either of us will ever truly understand each other's point of view, but at least we're both willing to try."
Fitz nodded. "Yes we are."
They sat in comfortable silence, just holding on to each other tight.
"Marc and I had an interesting conversation last week, and it made me think."
"What was so interesting about it?" he asked.
Olivia sighed. "He was concerned about us. Well about our relationship and how it could possibly affect my career."
Fitz frowned. "I don't see how that could be his concern," he said. "And I don't see how our relationship has any bearing on your career."
She shook her head. "That's the thing, Fitz. The way Marc put it made me think of how much our relationship can affect a lot of things. He wasn't being negative if that's what you're thinking. He was being… I don't know, proactive."
Olivia waited for a reaction from Fitz, but he just encouraged her to continue.
"I guess he's concerned that my personal life could affect my professional judgments or job obligations." She chuckled wryly. "As if that would ever happen. I'm already subjected to closer scrutiny and harsher discipline for any off-duty misconduct that may occur, because of the nature of my job. I always have to demonstrate honesty and integrity above reproach, and I can't get caught up anything that would undermine my credibility in the AUSA's office. Any hint of bias could affect my ability to do my job, and the defense would rightly be all over it. I would never want Marc to lose confidence in me because of my personal relationships."
"I still don't see how our relationship can impact your career. Why would something I did affect you?"
"Because who I associate with has a direct bearing on my reputation, and Fitz, I've worked too hard to get where I am."
"I think Marc's trying to create a problem where there isn't one."
"He just wants to help."
"And I appreciate it, but we don't need his help. We're gonna be fine."
Fitz saw that she was still thinking about Marc's comments, so he decided to change the conversation.
"Pack a bag," he said kissing the tip of her nose. "You're staying with me tonight. I'll drive you in to work tomorrow."
Olivia shook her head. "Fitz, I'm fine, really."
"Go pack a bag," he said a little firmer, leaving no room for argument.
"Are you upset with me?"
Fitz realized his tone was a bit harsh. He lifted her chin and kissed her softly on the lips. "Of course not. I love you and want you with me tonight. Now go pack whatever you need so that we can go."
Olivia gave him a huge smile before he lifted her from his lap and stood her on her feet. She walked in the direction of her bedroom while Fitz called his publicist.
X
One day in Great Falls turned into a week. Olivia decided to work remotely Monday, and while Fitz was at practice, she held meetings. When he returned, she shut down and they spent the rest of the day together, worrying about nothing but themselves. On Tuesday she went in to the office but left early so they could meet with Fitz's publicist, Vivian. They discussed options for the couple moving forward.
She advised them not to address any rumors, and to go about their lives as usual. To be present, giving the paparazzi access to them, looking like the happy and loving couple they actually were. As much as Olivia hated being exposed, she knew Vivian was correct.
Over the next few days they went out to dinner and Fitz had accompanied her to a few local boutiques where she picked up a few items to be worn for his eyes only. As expected, there were cameras everywhere and it all felt scripted, which it kind of was, since their outings served a purpose. Their PDA was on full display and they shut out everything else going on around them, and remained in the moment.
There were more photos and stories posted online, some good, some not so good. Olivia read most of them, even though Fitz had asked not to. Finally, she made a conscious decision to let it all go and her stress level decreased. She was happy, and in love with Fitzgerald Grant, and nothing and no one could get to her if she didn't allow them to.
X
Preseason…
Friday night and Olivia and Joey attended the Football Team's first preseason game. She hadn't seen him since the previous evening, though he'd called several times to let know that he loved her and that he was thinking about her. He wanted her to sit in the Team's suite with the other player's wives and girlfriends, but she'd declined. The truth was, although Fitz had been successful in getting Stephanie banned from all Football Team facilities, Olivia still wasn't sure how many others felt the same way she did. So, the two of them were currently sitting on the fifty-yard line decked out in their Team gear.
When the team ran out of the tunnel and to the sideline, Olivia couldn't contain her excitement. She stood to her feet with the other fans to cheer them on. She was excited but she was also a nervous wreck for Fitz. In his eleventh, and maybe final season, she knew how important it was for him to perform well for the team even though the game wouldn't count toward the season.
"Relax, Liv" Joey said.
"I'm trying, but this game is so important."
"So is every game. You still have two more preseason games and the entire regular season, the playoffs and the Super Bowl. Pace yourself. You can't be nervous for him every game or you'll go crazy."
"I know that. But I want him to have a great season."
Joey smiled at her bestie. "We all do, Liv."
Olivia squeezed her hand.
The Team hit the field for their first possession of the game and Olivia's heart was in her stomach when Fitz ran onto the field and waved at the fans. He looked so handsome and relaxed.
In the end, she didn't have to worry. Fitz threw for three touchdowns in the first half. The Football Team blew out the Jaguars by twenty-three points, but Olivia didn't relax until the clock read triple zeros. Once the game ended, she sent him a quick text message.
Congratulations, baby! You looked great out there, just like I knew you would. I love you.
Olivia turned to Joey. "They're about to go to the locker room to shower and change, but we can meet them in the private lounge, where they'll all be afterward."
"Sure, let's go." Joey responded.
By the time Olivia and Joey made it to the lower level of the stadium, Fitz had responded.
Thanks, Livvie. Can't wait to see you. Love you too.
X
Fitz finally emerged impeccably dressed in a suit with his leather bag thrown over his shoulder. He'd just come from the post-game interviews, which she'd watched on one of the monitors in the lounge. Olivia couldn't take her eyes off him in the extremely well-tailored navy suit that fit his muscular, broad shouldered frame perfectly, a crisp white French-cuffed shirt and a muted gray tie. His hair was still damp from his shower and his jawline was close shaven.
When Fitz saw Olivia, his blue eyes roamed over her, and a huge grin spread across his face. He quickly walked over to her and lifted her off her feet, hugging her tightly, not caring about the watchful eyes, including the media. He kissed her on the lips and then stared at her beautiful face, his excitement was contagious.
"Hi."
Olivia smiled up at him. "Hi."
Joey cleared her throat. "Hello, Fitz. Great game."
"Hey, Joey," he said, leaning over and kissing her cheek. "Thank you."
He turned back to Olivia. "Did you see that game, Livvie? Three passing touchdowns, one hundred fifty-five yard, no interceptions. I think you're my good luck charm."
Olivia chuckled and then smiled. "I'm glad I could help."
Their eyes met and he placed his arm around Olivia's waist and the three of them walked to the player's lot, and climbed into the Cayenne. He drove Joey the short distance to her car and she promised to call when she made it home, before exiting the vehicle. Julian was working a big case that was taking up a lot of his time, which is why she was alone. They watched as she drove out of the lot, and disappeared into the night traffic.
"Where to pretty lady?" he asked smiling at Olivia.
"I'm hungry. Let's order something and pick it up on our way to Great Falls."
"Or I can cook something."
Olivia glanced up from her phone. "Are you sure, babe?" she asked, concern in her voice. You just played in a football game."
Fitz lifted her hand and kissed her fingers. "Livvie, I'm fine. I played two quarters. I can cook for us, and then satisfy you later." He grinned at her. "If you don't believe me, I'd be more than happy to prove that theory right now if you need a reminder."
Olivia looked at him trying to determine if he was serious. He was. "Fitz we are not having sex in this truck."
He chuckled. "Well, we both know I have no issues satisfying you in any way."
Olivia gave him a look which he ignored.
"We may not have sex in this truck right now, but we will at home later."
She squeezed his thigh, and then leaned over and kissed his cheek. "Oh, most definitely."
X
A few days later…
"Fitz I don't have time for this," Olivia argued. "I have a demanding career, and a busy schedule."
"Come on, Livvie. The Player Engagement Director reached out to me, and I said I'd talk to you."
Olivia was busy getting dressed for work in Fitz's bedroom Tuesday morning, while he sat watching. Tuesdays were typically off days in the NFL, but he was still going to Ashburn to watch film with a few of his teammates.
"Well you can tell her you talked to me and I said, 'no thank you.'"
They'd had a quiet morning in bed. Then he brought up the current topic: the Wives Club.
The Wives Club was the group for all wives, fiancés and girlfriends of Football Team members. Since Olivia was the girlfriend of the team's captain, and star quarterback, she was expected to be fully involved.
She dreaded being a part of that group of women whose sole purpose was to look pretty, spend their men's money, and who had no identity outside of their men. Well that wasn't her, and Fitz knew that. She had a career she loved, her own money and a life and identity before she met him. And after the way some of the women had treated her at Family Day, she really wanted nothing to do with any of them.
Olivia and Fitz had had several conversations around the topic, and she knew that if they were married, she would've been expected to lead the group, something she definitely didn't want to do. But since she was the captain's girlfriend, she would have to start being involved in the coming months, but she wasn't going to do anymore than what was expected any time soon.
Fitz wanted her to attend tomorrow's meeting, which is what they were currently discussing. She had a job and the club met on weekdays, which she hoped would exclude her from participating, and that was okay with her.
Chanel and Tracee had told her that wives were subtly discouraged from working if they wanted to be a full-fledged member of the group. Chanel had been a teacher before resigning when she got pregnant, and Tracee had been a registered nurse.
Olivia had no intention of leaving her career to be a member, but Fitz really wanted her to participate. She didn't want to be an NFL wife, but she also understood that she was going to have to make sacrifices for their relationship.
"The meeting's tomorrow at six," he said looking across the room at her.
She knew her schedule was pretty light all week, and getting out of the office early enough to attend wouldn't be a problem. But she just didn't want to go.
"It's at Jake Maddox's home in Leesburg. I'll take you and pick you up."
Olivia stared at him for a minute. He wasn't letting this go. "That won't be necessary. I can drive myself."
Fitz stood and walked up to her. "Are you sure?"
Olivia nodded. "I'm sure."
Fitz's face broke into a huge grin.
"But you're going to owe me, mister," she said, poking him in his hard chest. "Big time."
He laughed. "Oh, am I now?"
"Absolutely."
"Anything for you, Livvie."
"Careful Grant, you don't know what I want yet."
Fitz shook his head. "Doesn't matter."
"Mmmhmm, and I do intend to collect," Olivia responded.
"And I'll be more than happy to pay up," he whispered.
"Tonight?"
Fitz nodded. "Tonight."
Olivia stood on her toes and kissed him. "I have to go. I have a meeting in an hour.
"You're such a workaholic."
"Maybe," Olivia shrugged. "I'll see you later."
Fitz kissed her long and hard before swatting her ass. "Come on, I'll walk you out."
X
Wednesday afternoon…
"How's engaged life?" Olivia asked after the waiter left their table.
"Perfect," Joey said with a slight blush. "I love him so much, Liv."
She'd needed Joey for reinforcement before she attended her first Wives Club meeting that evening, so she'd called and invited her to lunch.
Olivia smiled at her bestie. "This time last year, we were both singing the singles blues. Now we've both found good men and have fallen in love."
Joey grinned. "True that."
"How long is J.P. going to be out of town?"
"Five days," she said sadly, over the noise of the lunch crowd. The popular restaurant was filled to capacity but Olivia didn't care about the crowd or the noise. She was just happy to be able to have lunch outside her office again.
She and Fitz had worked hard for their peace and quiet, and so far they'd been successful, because the media had backed off…somewhat. They'd realized they weren't getting much on the couple, and Fitz was very cautious when he spoke with them. When they asked questions about his relationship with Olivia, he always steered them back to the team and the game. He'd told Olivia that once the season began, it would be easier to deflect. She hoped so.
"Don't be so down, Jo," Olivia said. She'd endured five weeks away from Fitz, Joey would be just fine. "Think of it as five days of preparation."
Joey frowned. "Preparation?"
"Preparation for his return." Olivia smiled across the table at her best friend. "I know we're talking about my brother and normally I would be totally grossed out and disgusted, but you look so sad, I'm making an exception…just this once."
Joey laughed.
"Seriously, Jo. Pamper yourself, rest up and make plans to seduce him while he's away. Send him a gift at his hotel, and have phone sex with him. It will make him want to come home sooner."
Joey chuckled, shaking her head. "I'm afraid to ask how you know this."
Olivia looked at Joey with a mischievous twinkle in her eyes. "Let's just say that the day training camp ended in Richmond, Fitz drove straight to my office in D.C...for reasons." Her face flushed with the creeping heat from her neck up to her cheeks as she remembered the things he'd done to her body that night, and well into the early morning.
Joey laughed. She just loved seeing her best friend so happy and so in love.
"The team's leaving Friday for their preseason game in Atlanta on Saturday, and I'll be up waiting for Fitz when he returns home late Saturday night," Olivia said, raising an eyebrow in a suggestive manner.
"You're so crazy," Joey said, laughing and shaking her head.
Olivia smiled. "Yeah, I'm crazy in love."
X
Wives Club…
"Ladies, can we please come to order?" Bennedetta "Benny" Maddox, the current lead wife, said, banging her gavel against a round block. The meeting was being held in her lavish home.
Olivia remembered being introduced to her at Family Day. She didn't make a good first impression. Her long hair was platinum blonde, with extensions for fullness. She was also perfectly built with a large chest and hips, along with a tiny waist.
All probably with a little help from exercise and surgery, Olivia thought.
Her husband was Jack Maddox, the starting tight end, whom Olivia had met for the first time when she visited Fitz at training camp. They'd actually had a conversation at Family Day. He was a lot more laid back than his wife.
Everyone was talking to someone, while Olivia sat alone in an overstuffed armchair sipping on a glass of surprisingly decent wine. She'd felt like a fish out of water until Benny had called the meeting to order. Olivia glanced around at the other women who dressed to impress. A lot of money had been spent on weaves, extensions, designer clothes, bags, shoes and shades. But she couldn't judge because she'd carefully chosen the black Gucci embroidered and lace long sleeve dress that fell just above her knees, black Gucci sandals that tied around her ankles and a Prada bag. She would never admit it, but she'd loved getting dressed up for this meeting.
Her hair was flat-ironed straight and hung past her shoulders and down her back. Her make was simple: a light dusting of powder, mascara and lipstick. Olivia smiled thinking about Fitz's fingers playing in her hair before she left. His fingers had also played with other parts of her body, and she almost didn't make it out of the house on time.
The meeting was called to order and Olivia was immediately impressed. They ran the meeting like a Fortune 500 company, including minutes and a treasury report. The club had a large budget and did a lot of charity work, but didn't seem to put in time with their money. Olivia thought that maybe she could help change that.
When they finally got around to new business, Olivia was formally introduced to the group.
"As you all know, we have a new member among us. Our star quarterback Fitzgerald Grant's girlfriend."
Everyone politely clapped, and Olivia nodded and gave a small wave to the women.
"Care to tell us anything about yourself, besides the fact that you managed to snag the most eligible bachelor in the NFL?"
A loud murmur went around the room as the ladies agreed that Olivia was indeed lucky to be with Fitz. On one hand she was oddly flattered, but on the other, she was a little offended that these women, especially the ones who didn't care for her, were commenting on how lucky she was to have him.
Olivia looked around at all of the expectant faces waiting for her to speak. She wondered if they could see the irritation on her face because Benny hadn't bothered to even say her name when she introduced her. And to add insult, she'd made the smart comment about Olivia snagging Fitz.
Shaking her head to clear her thoughts, Olivia finally spoke. "First, my name is Olivia Pope, but feel free to call me Fitzgerald Grant's girlfriend." There were a few chuckles around the room, as some the ladies picked up on her sarcasm. "I'm originally from D.C. and I'm an Assistant US Attorney with the US Attorney's office."
"Oh honey, we know who you are. You were so upset by a few comments from Fitz's ex, that he felt the need to have a closed door meeting to address the team about it. That must have been so hard on you," Benny said with a fake concern expression on her face.
Apparently not all the players had shared that information with their significant others, because there were several audible gasps.
This woman is threatened by me, Olivia thought.
Benny had been sitting with Allison Brown, Dana Rogers and Stephanie Smith on Saturday, so obviously, they were all friends. She also knew that if Fitz and Olivia got married, she'd lose her position as HBIC. What she didn't know, however, was that Olivia had less than zero interest in being the leader of these women. Hell, she didn't want to be a part of any of this. Ever.
Olivia took a deep breath to keep from unloading on the insecure woman, and unclenched her jaw. "You are correct. There were some words said about me and to me that were not only uncalled for, but were also so offensive that Fitz felt the need to address it with the team, and with team management."
"That's Fitz, such a great guy," Benny said, dryly.
Olivia nodded. "That's how he swept me off my feet; by being the caring, thoughtful, and attentive man that he is. What's not to love?" She ended with a huge smile on her face.
"So you're still with the US Attorney's office?" Benny asked.
Olivia was puzzled by the odd question. "Yes. Why?"
"Oh I just assumed you would be giving up tour career. I mean with a man like Fitz, I think we all understand wanting to always be available for him."
Olivia shook her head. Shocked. Was this woman serious? "Well I have a career that I love, and a life outside of Fitz. This will be his eleventh season, and I think he'll be okay if I'm not available to take care of his every want and need. Not to mention, I make my own money. If we break up, I will be okay," she said, looking pointedly at Benny.
"What's that supposed to mean?"
Olivia had finally struck a nerve. Benny sat up in her chair.
"Exactly what I said. I haven't spent my entire life trying to make sure I'm perfect so that I can find a rich man to take care of me. I know who I am, and I have the best of both worlds, his money, and my own." These women didn't need to know that she'd never accepted anything from Fitz other than the Tiffany bracelet.
There were more gasps, but one of the women sitting next to Benny smiled. Olivia was now regretting not paying attention to introductions. It looked as if she might have at least one ally in the room.
"You think you're so different from me?" Benny asked.
Olivia sighed. "I don't know you well enough to answer that question, but I'm going to go out on a limb and say 'yes.'"
"Well the way I see it, we are the same," Benny huffed. "Different methods, same result. You used your skills to hook one of the most sought after bachelors, and highest paid athletes, who'd made it clear to everyone that he wasn't ready to settle down."
"Okay! That. Is. Enough!" Olivia said, seething, as she stood and reached for her bag. "When you said Fitz made it clear to everyone that he wasn't ready to settle down, you mean he made it clear to you, right? Well clearly he changed his mind, but you just keep wondering how I did it." She turned to leave, but then turned back. "Goodnight ladies, it was nice meeting some of you." With that she turned again, threw up a hand and left the room.
Olivia made her way out of the very large house and walked around the circular driveway toward the car that she'd bought with her own money. She was angry, and the fact that some people no longer saw her as Olivia Pope but as Fitzgerald Grant's girlfriend, only made the situation worse. She was grateful to have a fulfilling and rewarding career, because she didn't want to end up like Benny Maddox.
X
It was after nine by the time Olivia drove her car into Fitz's garage. She'd called him on the way but didn't mention what happened. Once she let herself inside, she stopped by the kitchen to grab a bottle of water and then climbed the back stairs to Fitz's suite. He was sitting up in bed reading his playbook and looked up when she walked into the room. She dropped her purse and water onto a chair before sitting and removing her shoes and dress. He watched as she stood, wearing a lace black bra and matching thong panty set, but still didn't say a word.
Olivia walked into the bathroom and took her time pinning up her hair, cleansing her face and brushing her teeth. When she finished, she removed her underwear and pulled a print satin chemise nightgown over her head.
Fitz stared at her as she grabbed the water and walked toward the bed. He still didn't say a word as she climbed in beside him, and got settled.
"Livvie, I need you to please try to get along with those ladies. You have to be in the club."
Olivia's head snapped in his direction. "What?! Did someone call and tell on me? Are we in grade school?" she said in disbelief. She was getting angry all over again at his suggestion that she needed to get along with those women.
Fitz sighed and set the book on the night table. "The Wives Club and the team are intertwined. So if a wife or girlfriend complains about another member to her man, that player then talks to his teammate about his woman, then that man talks to his woman. We're a strong team and we want to be a strong family."
"Is that what happened when you addressed the team?"
Fitz shook his head. "I didn't go to Adam directly but he got the message." He turned to face her.
"Jake called."
"Fitz, she didn't even introduce me by name, just Fitzgerald Grant's girlfriend, as if I don't have my own identity. And then they all began to comment on how lucky I was to snag you."
He grinned smugly, and she hit him with a pillow. "You are so damn arrogant."
Fitz laughed, falling back against the mound of pillows. He then took her hand in his, and the expression on his face became serious again. "Okay. That wasn't cool and I'm sure you corrected her. So what's the problem?"
Olivia sighed. "I don't like them, Fitz. And I don't fit in."
Fitz raised his brows. "You don't like any of them?
She shook her head.
"Did you even try, Livvie? I know you abruptly left the meeting, but not before basically telling them all to fuck off."
Olivia rolled her eyes at the absurdity of it all.
"Were Chanel and Tracee there?" he asked.
"No."
"What about Lauren McWilliams?"
Olivia thought about the woman who'd smiled at her. Could that have been Lauren? She didn't remember her name.
She shrugged. "I don't remember. Fitz at least three of them were Stephanie's friends. The others probably wanted to introduce you to a single friend or relative with a more palatable hue."
"Livvie, I've never had a dating preference. I have dated women of all races. I'm attracted to beautiful, intelligent women and I've never discriminated against any woman because of skin color."
"I know that. But it still doesn't change the fact that some people aren't happy that you're dating me."
Fitz reached out and tipped her chin up. "I need you to make friends or at least be nice. Do you think I like all my teammates?"
"But it's so hard, Fitz," she whined, still annoyed that she would have to become a member of that group. "Those are your teammates. You have a common interest, football. I have nothing in common with those women."
"Yes you do. You love the players."
Olivia shook her head fiercely. "No. I love you. And I'm not too sure those women know how to love anyone other than themselves."
"Hey, hey, judge much?" Fitz leaned down and kissed her lips.
"As a lawyer, I've evaluated all the evidence and the facts, and my summation seems to be correct."
"Well, can you please try harder, Livvie?" he pleaded. For me?"
Olivia looked away and then back at him and his pleading eyes, and sighed loudly. "Ugh…okay, okay. I will try to attend the next meeting, and I will try to try to get along with the ladies, especially since they snitch."
Fitz laughed loudly and pulled her onto his chest. "Yes, they snitch.
Olivia chuckled while holding on to him wanting to be near him for his warmth and comfort.
His hands slowly moved down her body and he playfully tapped her backside.
"You know, in my line of work sometimes it's hard to get witnesses to testify because of the threat, 'snitches get stitches.' Those women need to think about that the next time they want to behave like hall monitors."
He chuckled and Olivia could feel the vibrations in his chest.
"I love you, Olivia Pope," he said and then captured her mouth in a deep, slow and sensual kiss, then moved his lips to the side of her neck, just behind her ear.
Olivia moaned. "I love you too, Fitzgerald Grant."
He didn't respond but his hands moved to the hem of her nightgown and pulled it up and over her head. Olivia remained silent, but she looked down at his beautiful body that he worked so hard to maintain. She leaned forward and ran her tongue along his neck where she sucked, leaving a mark, and returning the favor.
Fitz reached out to cup her perfect breasts, rubbing her nipples in a circular motion. His touch was so stimulating that Olivia arched her back. She bent down and kissed him. He was so handsome, and she was lucky that she got to touch him whenever she wanted.
Fitz was a good man and he loved her, deeply. Why was she stressing about some women she'd only have to see at home games, and maybe at Wives Club meetings? He never asked for anything, which is why she would do this for him.
"Fitz," she whispered. "I'll do whatever to make you happy."
"You make me happy Livvie." He leaned up and kissed her chin. "Are you happy?"
"Yes. But tonight I got a close-up of what I'm up against. You have so many admirers who want you."
He frowned. "What?"
"I got the feeling that if given a small chance, those women would try it with you, even the married ones."
"Really?"
'Yes, really. And sometimes I wonder if I'm enough." She sat up, straddling his waist. "I hate that I feel that way sometimes because I like who I am. But it does get hard knowing that there are women waiting for me to mess up. I'm not perfect, and I won't pretend to be."
"Fitz flipped her onto her back and swiftly entered her body, burrowing himself deeply inside her. Olivia gasped and arched her back, pressing her shoulders hard against the bed as she lifted her hips to meet his thrusts.
"I want you to listen to me, Livvie. I don't want anyone but you, and just as you are: stubborn, opinionated, talkative, independent, sexy, beautiful and brilliant. I love everything about you. And I don't want perfect. It doesn't exist anyway."
Olivia wrapped her legs around Fitz's thrusting hips, drawing him in deeper. "So I'm stubborn, am I?"
"I guess you didn't hear me say that you're also beautiful and sexy," he said smiling down at her as he took his time pumping in and out of her. She could feel every thick inch of him as he made sweet, slow love to her. It wasn't long before she screamed his name.
"Fitz! I love you, I love you so much."
His eyes rolled back as he came deep inside of her, and then collapsed against her chest with his face buried between her breasts.
"I love you too, Livvie. Forever."