Hey everybody, y'all all right? I hope this update finds you all in good health. I'm great, ready to celebrate the holiday and move on to a new year. It's been almost three weeks since the last AWS update, and we're just moving along with our favorite couple. I know I say this all the time but thank you all for reading my story, leaving thoughtful reviews and sending funny and heartfelt PMs. I love reading them. You guys are really great! And realread, thank you.
This chapter finds Olitz moving along in their relationship, careers and the football season. Things have been going too smoothly, so it was definitely time to change it up. Read my latest and let me know what you think. Enjoy.
TBOT
Only one chapter this time, and please mask up!
X
One week later…
After bye week, the couple hit the ground running with their respective careers. Olivia had several pretrial conferences and court appearances, while Fitz began to train and prepare for the second half of the season. They were so busy that the thought of intimacy was exhausting. One night, Olivia had fallen asleep mid-kiss. Not that he could blame her. They were both burning the candle at both ends. But if that's what it took to build a healthy, committed relationship, then they both were willing to make sacrifices.
X
Week seven, Olivia sat with the Wives and Joey in the Team's suite. It was a one 'o clock game against the Cardinals, so they'd be home by five. Fitz and Olivia were invited to Jack Maddox's birthday party that evening, given by his wife Benny at their home in Leesburg. When they'd received the invitation, they'd debated whether to attend, but in the end they decided that Fitz was the team captain, and needed to show that he was a leader by showing up for his teammate.
They wouldn't be there all night as the guys would need to be at the training facility by seven. Olivia had no court appearances on Monday, so she'd decided to work from home. Home. Great Falls had more or less, become home. They both agreed that waking up next to each other was a wonderful way to start each new day. They weren't "officially" living together, but it was working out that way. She still considered her condo her home, but spent almost every night in Great Falls. Fitz hadn't brought up the subject of moving in again, but then, he'd still gotten what he wanted: Olivia in his home and in his bed ninety-eight percent of the time. She sat thinking about the conversation she'd recently had with Joey.
"You're both in love, Liv, but you hurt him and yourself, because you're afraid. Think about it," Joey continued. "Fitz wants to protect, love and commit to only you. And he wants it so badly that he's asked you to move in with him, and is also willing to marry you to make it happen. But the woman he's given his heart to turned him down. And not for practical reasons, but because she's afraid of the unknown.
Olivia sat taking in what Joey was saying. Did this mean that he loved her more she loved him? Was he wrong about her? Did their love mean more to him? Was fear of the unknown more important to her than their love? Was he wasting his time with her?
Joey's topaz colored eyes bored into Olivia's light brown ones, waiting for a response.
"Jo, of course I love Fitz. I'm in love with him. But I'm just trying to protect myself."
"Protect yourself from what?" Joey asked, exasperated. "You need to stop being so afraid. What exactly are you protecting yourself from. His love? True happiness with him? What is it?"
"How do I know he won't hurt me?" Olivia asked. "I mean, I don't know that he won't."
Joey nodded. "Neither of us knows for sure that he won't, Liv. I think a better question might be, 'Will he hurt you if he can help it?' And isn't true love worth the risk?"
Olivia was quiet again as she thought about it. But she didn't have to think very long because she already knew the answers. She knew that Fitz would never, ever deliberately hurt her, and of course their love was worth the risk.
"Oh, Jo, I hope I didn't screw this up," she moaned.
Joey chuckled. "Maybe. But I'm sure you know how to fix it."
X
Later that night, Olivia laid her naked body on top of Fitz's and placed small kisses on his face, though he was drifting off to sleep. "What's gotten into you?" he mumbled sleepily.
"Nothing," she said as she traced his strong jawline. He was usually clean-shaven, but the beginnings of a beard and mustache appeared, making him ruggedly handsome. "You know, you're even sexier with this beard. Don't shave it."
"Oh, you like the rugged look, huh?" he asked, in a low and husky voice.
She nodded, looking into his hooded eyes. His voice, and his hard dick against her stomach meant that they were probably about to have sex again, but she needed to confess something first. She'd been thinking, why was she stressing about living together? Yes, it was a big commitment but she knew she wanted a future with Fitz, wanted to marry him, and eventually have his babies.
"If you still want me to move in with you, I would love to."
He opened his beautiful blue eyes, filled with love for her and stared for a full minute. "We'll do it your way, Livvie. Once we're both ready and you're my wife, we'll live together. It's really okay. We're together almost every night anyway."
Her heart melted at the fact that he'd listened to what was important to her and agreed to wait before they lived together.
"Really? I felt awful when you first asked and I said 'no,' and didn't want to discuss it. We didn't speak for the rest of the evening. That's not how we operate."
"No, it isn't. We have to talk to each other, tell each other how we feel and always tell each other the truth."
Olivia nodded. "Agreed. So you're sure about this?"
"Yes, I'm sure," he said, brushing her hair away from her face. "Whatever it takes to make you happy, Livvie."
"You make me happy, Fitzgerald," she said before lowering her head and kissing him deeply.
Suddenly Fitz flipped her onto her back and parted her thighs. Her squealed quickly turned into a moan as he planted gentle kisses along her neck.
"Allow me to show you how happy you make me, Livvie."
Towering above her, Fitz entered her and Olivia felt every delicious thick inch of him as he did. She arched her back as she lifted her hips to meet his slow and long strokes. She closed her eyes and whimpered, enjoying the building tension that only this man could arouse within her. Her arms and legs tightened around his body, pulling him deeper, as his thrusts changed from leisurely to powerful. Her moans and his grunts were loud as his rhythm increased at a nonstop pace, bringing them closer to climax.
"Fitz!"
Olivia gave herself to him completely as her body shuddered. Fitz picked up the already frantic pace, and deepened his steady thrusts. She lifted her body from the bed, wanting everything he had to give.
"Livvie!"
Fitz's body shook with the force of the orgasm that shot through him. He released a deep growl as he felt his body explode inside her.
A short while later, he rolled onto the bed next to her and pulled her into his arms. He wrapped his arms tightly around her as she lay draped across his chest, a sated, boneless weight that made him smile. She couldn't see his face but heard his even breathing and knew he would be asleep soon. She lifted her head and kissed his sweaty chest. "You want me to make you happy again?"
Fitz chuckled quietly and she felt the deep rumble in his chest. "Livvie, you know you're crazy, right?"
"Crazy about you." She smiled and reached for his hand. He closed his around hers, clutching it tightly in his grasp, and then they fell fast asleep.
They were in a good place or at least a better place and she didn't want anything upset the balance.
X
Present…
"Julian was bummed that he had to miss today's game. He's still in the middle of contract negotiations for a client. I haven't seen much of my fiancé over the past week and a half, and I miss him."
Olivia looked at her best friend. "I heard he's been working long hours. It shouldn't be long, and you'll have him back."
"Well he needs to hurry and finish because I'm starting to feel pressured about our wedding."
"By, J?"
"Oh, no!" Joey answered incredulously. "Julian has been amazing. He's said he'll do whatever I want to do but that's the problem. I don't know what I want!" She threw up her hands in frustration.
"You do want to marry my brother?"
Joey's smile lit up her face. "More than anything else in this world. That's the only thing I'm sure of."
Olivia smiled with her best friend. "Okay. I just wanted to make sure we were clear on that."
"Julian is what I'm most certain of. I love him so much. I think it's just the hoopla surrounding the commitment that has me out of sorts. Everyone we love wants to have a say in our wedding."
"And by everyone you mean my mother." Olivia said, giving Joey a pointed look.
Joey looked at Olivia and then sighed. "Okay, your mother. Julian, who wants absolutely no parts of the planning, has been acting as a buffer and now she's taking advantage of the fact that he's been so busy. We allowed our mothers to plan the engagement party hoping they'd be satisfied, but Maya Pope has been trying to completely take over all the wedding planning."
Olivia wasn't surprised. As a matter of fact, she and her brother expected this. It's why she'd always considered eloping if and when she got married.
"Jo, you just have to figure out what you want and do that. Nothing else. Set some boundaries, and choose one or two things she can take off your to-do list and let her know that either you or your planner will be in touch if there's something else you'd like help with. Stop allowing my mother to manipulate you. She smells fear, like a dog, so don't show it, even if you're feeling it."
Joey threw back her head and laughed, drawing the attention of a few people in the suite. "That's so accurate, Liv. But I'm worried that I'll make her angry. I want everyone to be happy for us."
"And they will be happy," Olivia said. "And you'll be happier."
Joey nodded.
"If push comes to shove, just let Mom plan the entire wedding and you two just show up."
Joey laughed and this time Olivia joined her. "You might actually be onto to something, Liv."
They were soon joined by the other women and all their attention turned to the field where the Football Team had just run through the tunnel. Fitz jogged onto the field for the coin toss. After he won and the Team chose to receive, she stood along with everyone else as they prepared for the kickoff.
X
Later…
Olivia held Fitz's hand as he drove his BMW to the Leesburg home of Jake and Benny Maddox. He was silent, deep in thought and she squeezed his hand, letting him know that she was there. She enjoyed these quiet moments with him most. Their connection was always strongest when it was just the two of them. Unfortunately, because of his career, too many times it couldn't always only be the two of them.
Fitz kept his eyes on the road as he felt Olivia's hand squeezing his. He would've preferred staying home and celebrating the Team's seventh win in a row privately with his girlfriend, but he knew that Jake really wanted him to attend his party. Otherwise, they'd be in bed right now.
He glanced at the gorgeous woman sitting next to him. Over the course of seven months, he'd fallen more and more in love with Olivia Pope. Her laugh, her smile, the cute noises she made when he came home late at night while she was asleep or when he had to be up and gone before she did. It was like his special greeting, or her letting him know she was disappointed that he was leaving.
Fitz loved the way she got lost in thought and when her eyes grew wide when she had a great idea. He loved that she ran a bath for him after home games, and shampooed his hair and massaged his back. But if Olivia did none of that he would still be in love with her. He knew he was a very lucky man.
"What?" Olivia asked suddenly, breaking the silence in the car.
"What do you mean what?"
"Why are looking at me like that?"
He glanced at her briefly again. "Do you have any idea how much I love you, woman? How much you've brought into my life?"
"Woman?" Olivia teased, raising an eyebrow.
"You know I mean that in the most complimentary of ways."
"You better," she said before leaning over and kissing his cheek. His beard tickled her lips.
When she sat back, he continued. "I love talking to you, laughing with you, going to sleep and waking up with you, kissing you and making love with you."
Olivia smiled. "Of course I know," she whispered. "You show me every single day."
He took her hand and kissed the inside of her wrist. She loved when he did that.
"And do you know how happy you make me and how much I love you?"
Fitz nodded. "I do, but will you keep telling me every day?"
"I'll do one better, Mr. Quarterback. I'll keep telling you until our life together ends."
He grinned. "I'll take it."
X
When the couple arrived at the Maddox's palatial estate, Fitz exited the vehicle and handed his keys to the valet, and then rushed around to the passenger side to assist Olivia. It was a cold November night in Virginia, and he stood watching as Olivia adjusted her wool and fur coat. He'd chosen not to wear a coat over the grey kid mohair suit and the black cashmere knit sweater he wore underneath it. His look was completed with black Prada loafers. He'd also let his hair grow along with the mustache and beard, and they were all neatly groomed.
Earlier, as they got dressed, Fitz had been unable to keep his eyes off Olivia in the tailored black, wide-legged, butter soft leather pants, black cashmere turtleneck and four inch black leather boots she wore. She'd straightened her hair and it hung down her back. She'd also worn a little more make-up with a charcoal smoky eye and matte red lip. Large diamond hoop earrings and Fitz's bracelet were her only jewelry .
They'd both worn grey and black, and they were both very chic.
Fitz took her hand and they climbed the steps to the front door and entered the large foyer where the coat check was set up.
Fitz removed Olivia's coat and took the ticket from the attendant. They then moved toward the large living area where most of the party was being held. The Maddox home had been transformed into an intimate club with a live band and all. There were small pub tables and stools set up throughout so everyone could sit or dance.
The couple was greeted by different team members and their dates. Jake walked up to Fitz and gave him a huge bear hug, and patted him on the back. "Glad you came, man. We kicked ass today! Seven and zero! No one's going to stop us from getting to Miami."
Everyone laughed.
He then moved in front of Olivia and leaned in to kiss her cheek. "Hello beautiful. Thank you for coming."
"Thank you for inviting us."
Fitz put an arm around Olivia's waist as they watched Benny approach wearing a curve-hugging red dress. She actually looked good with her platinum blonde hair pulled into a sleek ponytail. Benny hugged the couple.
"I was wondering when you two were arriving."
"Great party as usual, Benny," Fitz said, complimenting her with a smile.
"Thank you, Fitz. Why don't the two of you go and mingle before dinner. There are plenty of hors d'oeuvres and drinks."
They went around hugging and greeting everyone. Olivia was surprised to see Atticus, Nick and even Malcolm in attendance, with dates on their arms.
They finally made their way to a table where Lauren, Drew, Tracee and Victor were already sitting. Chanel and Lincoln were on the dance floor, and Renee and Malik hadn't arrived. They all greeted one another as if they hadn't just attended the football game earlier in the day. It wasn't long before the guys stood and walked over to one of the bars, undoubtedly to talk shop, leaving the ladies alone.
Olivia actually enjoyed the company of the ladies of the Wives Club, after she let her guard down. She was doing volunteer work within the community with many of them, when she could, and it kept her busy. Although Benny wasn't one of her favorite people, she had to admit that she was the perfect supportive wife and rightful leader of the Club.
A part of Olivia was actually jealous, maybe even envious, of Benny. Her life was the Football Team. As much as Fitz loved her, she knew that it would be easier for him if she was more involved with the Team, completely being there for him in the sport and career he loved so much. But he also knew that Olivia was still conflicted. She felt the more she was involved, the more she would lose her own identity, as opposed to it being an addition to who she was.
Olivia shook those thoughts from her mind and joined the ladies in conversation. They laughed and talked until Benny made the announcement that dinner was about to be served, and the men joined the women at the table again.
After several toasts and a delicious meal, Olivia went to the bathroom, leaving Fitz in deep conversation with Drew and Victor. When she returned, she stood with Lauren and Tracee on the other side of the room as they watched some of the guests on the dance floor.
"This is a good party, and the guys are having a good time," Tracee said.
And they were. Olivia glanced in Fitz's direction just in time to see Dana Rogers leaning over him with her cleavage in his face. Fitz attempted to lean away from her while Drew laughed at something she said. Victor stood and left the table. Olivia thought she'd seen all the guests, but apparently Dana had flown under her radar.
She'd seen the woman at every game in the Team's suite, but they'd never said a word to one another. Apparently it was part of her job to attend the games, and Olivia usually ignored her.
"What is she doing here?" Olivia asked.
Lauren looked in the direction Olivia was looking and sighed. "Dana Rogers. I've been dealing with these hoes for a long time and she is definitely one. But she's also good at her job and handles her business with the guys and Nike very well." Lauren frowned. "She seems to only have eyes for Fitz tonight, though."
Olivia didn't consider herself a jealous woman, which is how she'd managed to be with Fitz without wanting to kill the groupies that were always around. Groupies like Dana Rogers. She exhaled deeply because she didn't want to have to check Dana tonight, and it would be so out of character for her.
She felt Fitz should do it more often, but he didn't like hurting women's feelings, unless they were being disrespectful and went too far. He usually smiled and gently removed their hands if they touched him. Currently, he was trying to get away from Dana.
"You ready to go back?" Lauren asked.
Olivia nodded. "Let's go."
When they approached the table, Dana moved away from Fitz, and he stood.
"Hello, Olivia."
"Dana." Olivia then looked at Fitz. "What is she doing here?"
Lauren grabbed Drew. "Come on baby, let's dance." They hastily made their exit.
"I wanted to ask Fitz if and when would be a good time to apologize to you."
Fitz held his breath at Dana's obvious lie, still unsure of how this situation would play out.
Olivia moved away from Fitz and stood in front of Dana. "You're not here to apologize, because people like you don't ever believe they've done anything wrong. And besides Dana, I've seen you at every preseason and regular season home game and not once have you said one word to me. Fitz has asked you to leave him alone, so I'm not sure why you're still here flashing your cleavage in his face. I do not need nor do I want your apology, but I will grant you the courtesy you don't deserve. Now if you're smart, you will go and find something safe to do."
Dana's face turned ten shades of red, but she had some sense and decided it was best to walk away. Fitz wanted to laugh but knew that now wasn't the time. They stood watching as she walked away, and Fitz finally spoke.
"I had nothing to do with her being here."
Olivia stood on her toes and kissed him softly. "I know. You're a lot of things, but stupid definitely isn't one of them. Benny invited her."
He sighed and slipped his arms around her waist, bringing her closer. "I can't wait to get you out of these sexy pants," he whispered.
"We'll see," she responded with indifference.
"What? Hold on, Livvie. That's not fair. I told you I had nothing to do with her being here."
"And you telling me does not change the fact that she's here. She should be glad I didn't punch her in the face like I really wanted to."
Fitz threw back his head and laughed but quickly composed himself after the look Olivia gave him.
"Livvie you know punishing me is really just punishing yourself, so think about that." He leaned down and kissed her again. "Now come on, let's hit the dance floor."
She grinned at him and took his outstretched hand.
Later as they stood waiting for the car, Fitz wrapped his arms around Olivia and kissed her neck. "So, are you still going to punish me?"
She knew she wasn't going to be able to deny him anything when they got home. "Maybe."
"Come on Livvie, I've been hard all evening just looking at you in these pants."
Olivia gasped and looked around to make sure no one else heard him, before turning to look at his face. "What am I going to do with you?" she said, kissing his lips.
"I hope everything," Fitz said sincerely.
"Me too."
X
Monday Night Football…
Week eight, the undefeated Football Team was playing a division game against the Eagles, who'd won five straight games and who currently had the number one defense in the league, on Monday night. Olivia had worked from home that day and rode to the stadium with Fitz. Her parents, the elder Grants, T.C., and Julian and Joey were all watching from home. When she walked into the suite, decked out in her usual burgundy, gold and white number seven jersey, Lauren and the rest of the crew were already there and waved her over.
She gave them all hugs before taking the seat between Lauren and Tracee. It was strange being there without Joey by her side.
"Are you ready?" Chanel asked with excitement.
"Yes, we've got this," Olivia said anxiously. "I spoke with Fitz earlier and he said he already knows that this game is his!"
They all laughed, raised their glasses and cheered.
X
Despite Fitz's confidence, the game was a nail-biter. Olivia didn't eat or drink anything in the first half, not even during halftime. Every time the camera panned to Fitz, he appeared calm and in control, and any time he smiled, it was with confidence. It calmed her to see him like that.
She was calm until the fourth quarter, with less than a minute to go. Third down for the Football Team and the Eagles were up by three. With thirty yards to go for a winning touchdown, Fitz had the ball.
The Eagles defense was tough and had sacked Fitz three times, and were going to have a record fourth if he couldn't find anyone open. Before she knew it, he did something unpredictable: he took off running down the field faster than she'd ever seen him run. Several defensive players were running at him and with no Team players between him and the end zone, it looked as if they were going to tackle him. But before they could touch him, he jumped over an Eagles safety into the end zone.
Everyone in the Team suite jumped up and down, screaming in disbelief. Fitz had won the game for the team as he'd predicted. He took off his helmet and lay flat on his back in end zone just where he'd landed.
Lauren and Tracee hugged Olivia, jumping up and down. "He did it! Your man did it!" Tracee yelled.
Olivia couldn't speak, so she nodded as tears ran down her face.
"Come on, let's go down to meet the guys," she heard Lauren say as they all moved to the suite.
She was so proud of Fitz, and couldn't wait to see him.
Later…
"This is becoming a habit," Olivia said as she straddled Fitz's back and rubbed his shoulders. "The Football Team beating their opponent, and me working out the kinks from the game."
Fitz had rushed through the post-game interviews and practically ran from the locker room. Some of his teammates laughed but he didn't care. He just wanted to get to his Livvie and take her home. They'd ordered and picked up dinner from one of their favorite restaurants, and had a quiet, late meal together in Great Falls.
By the time they made it upstairs to the bedroom, Fitz felt like he would pass out standing up. He had been running on adrenaline all evening, and was on the verge of crashing.
"Are you feeling extra tired after that tough game tonight?" Olivia had asked when they entered the bedroom.
"Why? What do you have in mind?"
"You need a massage," she murmured against his lips. "Let me work my magic."
"You know I will never say no to that," he smiled, giving her that grin.
She'd run a bath so he could soak his sore muscles, and they could wash each other, before they retired to bed.
"You're so tense," she said as she massaged along the ridge of his shoulders, then down the muscles next to his spine. Every time she found a knot, he groaned. "You really earned that win tonight, babe."
"Eight and zero," Fitz responded. "I can't believe my friends were worried about my focus."
Olivia frowned. "Why would they do that?"
"You know I've always been committed to the game. Now I'm committed to something else…us. And it's all working out just fine."
Olivia leaned down and kissed his nape. "I couldn't agree more."
Fitz was lulled into a complete state of relaxed arousal by her fingers. The feel of her tight little body straddling him and her kneading and rubbing him down had him hard as a rock.
"You're very good at this, baby," he said, lifting his head. "I'm going to turn over."
She started to move. "Okay, just let me…"
"No, stay right there." He flipped beneath her, grinning as she settled on top of his rock hard erection. She gasped and then chuckled.
"You had this big surprise waiting for me this whole time?"
"Mmm-hmm." He rocked against her as she bit her bottom lip, and her head fell to one side.
"Okay. I see your game plan, mister." Her eyes closed as she started rocking rhythmically against him.
"That wasn't the game plan until you put your little hands on me," he said, moving his hands beneath the soft silk of her nightgown. Her nipples became erect and it was a view that he would never get enough of. Just looking at her straddling him was making him harder, if that was possible. "And now with you sitting on top of me like this, I think you knew exactly what you were doing. This was your plan, not mine."
Olivia's laugh was low and sultry. "Maybe you're right, maybe you're wrong. I guess we'll never know."
"Doesn't matter," Fitz said. "But I think we've done enough talking for one night."
Olivia leaned down and gave him a long, passionate kiss, which really woke him up. When she broke away, he reached for the hem of her gown, pulled it over her head and flung it to the floor, leaving her completely naked. His hands reached out and gently massaged her breasts. He played with her nipples before replacing his hands with his lips.
Olivia gasped sharply before moaning, as Fitz pleasured her like only he could. In the time that they had been together, he had come to know everything about her. Her moods, her dreams, her passions and her body. It was knowing her completely that made their love whole.
"Oh, Fitz," she moaned as his dick rubbed against the slick folds of her core, and his tongue flicked over one nipple and then the other. She moaned louder as he sucked one nipple completely into his mouth.
Fitz didn't respond as he continued to rock against her, his dick head nudging against her clit. He continued to tweak and suck each nipple, loving the play of emotions on her face.
"I want you inside me, Fitz," she whispered, her hands flat on his chest, head thrown back and eyes closed. "I can't wait any longer."
Silently he reached out and lifted her, gripping her hips. When the large head of his dick pressed against her entrance, she gasped. Finally he slowly entered her and she closed her eyes as he slowly guided her down, down, down on top of all of him.
"Fitz," she gasped again, "You feel…I…can't…"
"I know, Livvie." He moved her higher on his body allowing him to find another half inch of space, and he was buried to the hilt, his dick completely inside her.
Olivia began to rock and bump against him, creating her own rhythm. She settled on a pace that had Fitz trying to control his orgasm as long as he could because her sexy moans were enough to push him over the edge. But she was running the show from on top and it was all he could do to hang on, second by second.
"Damn, Livvie," he growled, reaching out and grabbing her breasts again. She began riding him harder, making up for the time they'd been too tired to even think about sex. Her eyes closed and her moans became louder, the slapping of their hips pushing him over the edge.
He let out a gruff cry and gripped her hips tightly as his orgasm exploded inside her.
Olivia's core turned into a vice around him, and she froze, trembling, moaning and repeating his name over and over again. She collapsed onto his chest a moment later, shaking and sweating. He stroked her back lazily as they both lay for a few minutes waiting for their breathing to return to normal.
"I love you, Livvie."
When she didn't respond, he looked down into her face and discovered that she was sound asleep. He chuckled and pulled her closer, his arms wrapped around her. Pulling the sheet and duvet over their naked bodies, he kissed her forehead and it wasn't long before he joined her in a sated and peaceful slumber.
X
Week nine of the season found the Football Team on the road and Olivia in Joey's living room along with T.C., Julian, Harrison and his date, watching the game and cheering just as loudly as if they were at FedEx Field. "I can't believe they didn't call pass interference on that defensive back. He pushed Malcolm. It was so obvious."
Joey, Julian, T.C. and Harrison laughed at Olivia, because last season, she didn't know a touchdown from a field goal.
At halftime, the Football Team was down by fourteen points and Olivia had nervously bitten down every nail on one hand.
"I've never watched him play when they were losing. I don't know if I'll be able to watch."
In the end, not only did Olivia make it through the game, but she watched her man come back in the second half and lead his team down the field on the first two possessions, scoring both times, one of them to Malcolm. When the clock finally read triple zeros, the score was twenty-one to thirty-one, Football Team.
Later that evening, Olivia sat in the middle of her bed reviewing a few cases. It felt strange not being there to celebrate a victory immediately each time they had an away game. Fitz had called before he boarded the team plane for the flight home, and she would be back at his place the next evening.
X
Week ten of the season, the undefeated Football Team was back at home against the Lions. This game had received the most hype at the beginning of the season because Malcolm would be playing against his old team. It was now more significant because one of the teams was undefeated and the other wanted nothing more than to end their winning streak. The sports media had looked back on Malcolm's career with the Lions all week, pointing out that he was known just as much for his exploits on the field, as off.
He loved women and he loved to party, and had been questioned by the media several times about his late night activities during the season. Olivia could relate to their description of Malcolm. From watching him at the pool party, to his constant invitations for Fitz to join him at this club or that party, it was obvious that he was enjoying every aspect of his fame and money.
By the end of the fourth quarter, no one could argue Malcolm's commitment to the team or to the game. The Football Team beat the Lions twenty-one to three, and all three touchdowns were scored by the young and brash wide receiver.
Olivia stood with Joey, Julian and her parents waiting for Fitz to finish answering questions from the media. She tried to imagine what kind of natural high he and his teammates were on. It must have been similar to winning a big court case. They were now twelve and zero with only five regular season games left. The Team was also leading the league in total yards and touchdowns.
The Football Team was on a mission and they weren't going to let up until they were hoisting the Lombardi Trophy in Miami, in February.
She couldn't contain her smile as she watched Fitz walking with Coach Fauci and Malcolm. They were all deep in conversation, no doubt discussing plays and planning for next week's game. She had to admit that while Malcolm had a lot to be desired on the personal front, no one could argue with his talent. She'd just witnessed it. How he'd pulled down two catches in the end zone, in double coverage, was a still a mystery.
"Hey, Livvie," Fitz said as he kissed her briefly on the lips.
"Good to see you, Olivia," Coach said before greeting his wife and heading out.
"You were amazing as usual, babe."
"Thank you," Fitz said, wrapping an arm around her waist.
Malcolm cleared his throat loudly, waiting for her to say something.
"Okay, Malcolm," Olivia said. "You were good today, too."
"Only good?"
"You were great."
Malcolm smiled widely. "Thank you. Beating my old team to remain undefeated, on my birthday, is cause for celebration. The guys are throwing me a party tonight. You still in, Fitz?"
Fitz nodded. "Yeah, Mal. Give me a minute."
Fitz greeted Olivia's parents along with Joey and Julian before turning back to his love.
Olivia looked up at him. Confident and comfortable in their love, she smiled. "Give me a call tomorrow, since I'm sure it will be a late night."
Fitz grinned. "You know I will. I love you, Livvie."
She stood on her toes and kissed his cheek. "I love you, too. Have a good time."
X
The following morning, after an intense workout with Joey, Olivia arrived at her office at seven forty-five. If Fitz was out as late as she expected, she probably wouldn't hear from until later that afternoon, after the team meeting when they reviewed the film from the last game. She'd just placed her purse inside her desk drawer when Marc walked in.
The first thing she noticed was that he wasn't smiling. "I know that look."
He closed the door and took a seat. "We held the story from the media as long as we could, but the police are going to file charges."
Those words were usually used when the situation involved a celebrity or politician. Familiar with the protocol, Olivia removed her laptop from its bag and opened it, ready to take notes and get as much information as possible.
"Has an arrest been scheduled?"
In cases like this, the accused usually set a time to turn him or herself in instead of being arrested in public or in their home.
"We've already notified his agent and he's agreed to turn himself in."
She nodded. "Politician?"
"Athlete."
Olivia stopped typing and her head snapped up. She stared at Marc and his eyes were sympathetic as he seemed to search for the right words.
"Let me guess. Football."
"Malcolm La Blue," he said.
She remembered the party last night and the fact that she hadn't heard from Fitz. "What happened?"
"Apparently a party got out of hand last night. Metro police received a call from a young woman who says he held her against will and raped her. She says others, including Fitz, can corroborate her story."
The professional in her wanted all the facts, but the woman in her wanted to call Fitz, and she would, as soon as Marc left. "Who's getting it?"
"Not you," he said. "The media will have a field day if you prosecuted your boyfriend's teammate."
"But I can…"
"There isn't a 'but' in this world that would get me to change my mind, Olivia. It's too high-profile."
His voice left no room for debate. "I'm taking the case."
Olivia sighed. "Well may I at least get a quick rundown?"
Marc nodded. "Sometime between midnight and one in the morning, Malcolm escorted the young woman into the private VIP room at the Gold Club, asking everyone to give them some time alone. After a few shots and glasses of champagne, he started to get too friendly and when she tried to leave, he held her down and it was at that point that the crime was allegedly committed."
Listening to the story reminded Olivia of the first time she'd met Malcolm. He'd approached her as if she should be thankful he blessed her with his presence. Then there was the unwanted touching before he propositioned her with the offer of buying her things for spending some time with him.
"Think he'll take a deal?" she asked.
Marc shook his head. "I doubt it." He stood and headed for the door just as his cell phone rang. "I'll keep you posted."
X
By noon, the story had been picked up by all media outlets, and The Football Team had already released an official statement saying that while they would let the legal system work its course, they stood behind Malcolm and believed him when he said he was innocent.
Olivia remained in her office all morning. She told herself it was because she was researching, but the reality was that she was avoiding the stares, avoiding the questions and avoiding her colleagues. Every person in the office, the DMV, and hell the country, knew that she was in a relationship with Fitzgerald Grant. They'd all met him when he'd come to visit. Now they were giving her curious stares and looks of sympathy, and she hated it.
Joey had called an hour ago to offer her support. Aware of the initial hang-ups Olivia had about getting involved with a professional athlete, she reminded her that Malcolm represented one person, not an entire breed.
Soon after, Maya called. Olivia wasn't in the mood to deal with her mother today, especially after what she'd said when Olivia had casually mentioned that Fitz had asked her to move in with him.
"Olivia, your father and I love Fitz, but you know how we feel about you 'shacking up' with a man."
Olivia frowned and mouthed, 'shacking up?' Was this the same woman who'd encouraged her to "enjoy the ride with Fitz, because she would?"
"But you're a grown woman, so it really doesn't matter how we feel."
There was the passive aggressive Maya Pope she knew and loved. "Mom, Fitz and I are not 'shacking up.' We…well…it's complicated."
Maya stared at her daughter with a raised brow. "I may have been born at night, Olivia Carolyn, but not last night. You spend all of your time at his home in Great Falls. You sleep together every night. That is 'shacking up.'"
"We don't always sleep," Olivia murmured under her breath.
"I heard that. And I've told you about that smart mouth of yours."
Needless to say, Olivia learned that her mother was still conservative on some issues.
But she was pleasantly surprised when Maya only offered encouragement, and told Olivia that she would be here for her if she needed her.
One of the main reasons she didn't want to talk about it was because from what she knew of Malcolm, he might have done exactly what he was being accused of. He was egotistical, arrogant, self-serving and conceited.
The ringing of her cell phone invaded her thoughts. Olivia immediately recognized the number. She'd left a message for him hours ago. She quickly answered.
"Hello?"
"Hi, baby. I guess you've heard," Fitz said.
He sounded exhausted and Olivia guessed that between lawyers, the police and his team, he'd been in meeting after another.
"Yes. How are you holding up?"
"Not good. The media has become a circus. The league is contemplating suspensions, and Malcolm is facing serious charges for something he didn't do."
Olivia sighed. The fraternity of sports could be tighter than any relationship. It was not unusual for men to cover for each other. She had been involved in enough cases where she had to work hard to get through the united front they'd created. She'd hoped that Fitz wouldn't fall into that trap, but it didn't look that way.
"Were you in the room with him, Fitz?"
"No, but…"
"Then you don't know for sure, do you?" she said with obvious accusation in her voice.
"I know for sure because he said so," he responded.
"And we all know what a credible person he is," she said, not hiding her sarcasm and disgust of Malcolm. "Isn't he the one who propositioned me at your pool party and then got upset when I called him out on it?"
"You're equating making a play for you and this?" Fitz asked incredulously.
"Something happened in that room, Fitz," she said.
"That doesn't mean it was rape," he said, frustrated that she had Malcolm tried, convicted and sentenced.
This conversation was going to get them nowhere. "I'll call you later."
His voice was cold and distant. "We have an emergency team meeting, then practice. I'll call you tomorrow."
"Fine."
"Fine."
Olivia stared at the phone long after the conversation had ended and wondered what the hell had just happened. The prosecutor in her felt obligated to tell Fitz the truth. But maybe what she should have done was get rid of her professional side, and be there for him as a girlfriend. She called him back. Voicemail.
X
"Have you heard from him?"
Olivia shook her head. "No." She picked at her salad because she really didn't have much of an appetite, but Joey insisted on bringing her lunch. "We haven't spoken since the story first broke on Monday. They're leaving for Charlotte tomorrow for their game on Sunday."
She sighed. "This is why I didn't want to live together."
"Actually living together would've probably resolved this by now," Joey said.
"What? How?"
"If you were living together, then you and Fitz would either have to walk around on eggshells, not talking, or, you would have to talk about what happened, and work it all out together. This silent treatment thing just doesn't work when you're living under the same roof. And you keeping your condo makes it easier. When you get upset with him, you can just walk away and go back to your place. That solves nothing, especially if you're not communicating."
"Well this was his choice. I've tried calling him," Olivia said a little defensively.
"According to the news, the entire team has been instructed not to talk to anyone."
"Yeah, well," Olivia said, closing the lid on her food container and pushing it aside. "What does that have to do with us?"
"There's a lot going on right now, Liv" Joey said, hoping to give her best friend an explanation. "They have this charge hanging over all their heads and they're still expected to play as if everything's okay. It must be tough on them. This is supposed to be Fitz's year. He must be going through a lot."
"So is the young woman who's dealing with Malcolm's behavior," Olivia pointed out.
"I don't deny that, Olivia, but we're not talking about her, or Malcolm. We're talking about your relationship with Fitz. You can't be Olivia Pope, Assistant US Attorney, when what he needs is Olivia Pope, friend and lover."
"I want to be there for him," Olivia said, wondering how she was going to be able to separate the two.
"Then call him."
X
Later that evening, Olivia arrived in Great Falls at the gate to what they'd jokingly referred to as her second home. She pushed the call button. It was almost eight o'clock and she hoped he was home from his last practice session of the day.
"Yes?"
"Hi, Fitz, it's me."
He didn't respond, but the gates opened.
When she parked her car in the circular driveway, he stood on the porch in a long sleeve Nike t-shirt and black joggers with his arms crossed over his chest and unreadable expression on his handsome, beard covered face. It was hard to decipher whether he was happy to see her or not. Before losing her nerve, she climbed the steps and walked inside. He closed and locked the door before leading her down the hall and into what had become their favorite room. It was obvious he'd spent some time here. There was a blanket on the couch and a serving tray with remnants of his dinner. He took a seat and reached for her hand. His demeanor was aloof but she sat next to him, their bodies not touching.
"Why didn't you use your remote?" he asked. She hadn't used the call box at the gate in months.
"I wasn't sure you wanted to see me after our last conversation," she said quietly.
Fitz looked at her. "I'll always want to see you, Livvie," he said, his voice softening.
"You didn't call, so I thought…"
"I haven't called because I didn't want you to have to compromise your position with the AUSA's office. Also, things have been crazy with the media, not to mention we have a game to win on Sunday. If I ever needed to concentrate on the game, it is now. I don't have the luxury of any kind of distractions right now.
Olivia's head snapped up at his choice of words. Early in their relationship, he'd told her how he never thought he could make room for a woman and the game he loved. Did he still believe that? Did this incident with Malcolm remind him that any distractions, including her, could affect his season?
"Are you talking about the situation with Malcolm…or me?"
"As captain, it's up to me to lead this team. To be the example. They need to know I'm giving one hundred percent, now more than ever. Malcolm's been questioned twice by the police, he's been in several meetings with his lawyers, his family is being hounded and your office is pushing for him to take a deal. Yet he still has to be on top of his game Sunday."
"What about the victim?" Olivia asked, unable to gather any sympathy for Malcolm. "She's going through a rough time, too." Having dealt with enough cases involving some form of sexual assault, Olivia understood the psychological trauma that accompanied a crime like this. It could take years for a victim to put her life back together.
"I'm sure it's rough to sit with detectives and tell lies." There was no trace of empathy in his voice.
"Why would she lie about something like that, Fitz?"
"Are you serious?" Fitz asked, disbelieving. "You work in the AUSA's office. You know the answer."
"Most victims that come to us aren't lying," Olivia said.
"This victim did." He couldn't mask his anger any longer. Standing from the couch, he walked across the room.
"How can you say that?" she asked, standing as well. "You weren't there."
"Neither were you."
Both stared at each other, wondering where all the love and happiness had gone in their relationship.
"What is the team saying about the rape charge?"
Fitz stared at her for a few seconds. "What men say when women aren't around is not for your ears."
Olivia stared at him.
Fitz sighed. "Most of the guys think a lot of women lie about being raped, and that this woman is definitely lying."
"Fitz, most women don't lie about rape. Yes, a small percentage do and they make it hard for the women who really are victims. I'm a prosecutor, and also part of a system that sometimes doesn't adequately prosecute sexual assault, and way too often blames the victim. I can't believe they think that way."
"I know that, Olivia. But as I said, this woman isn't telling the truth."
"I read the report, Fitzgerald," Olivia said. "He cleared the room. They drank. The two of them had sex. She came out of that room clutching her clothes, and left immediately. She didn't wait to file a report. Those aren't signs of someone lying."
"You know what," he said. "I have an early team meeting tomorrow before our flight to Charlotte. Maybe we should call it a night."
Was she being dismissed? "Look, Fitz, why are we fighting about this? This doesn't involve us."
"Just admit it, Olivia," he said defiantly. "You don't like Malcolm and that's why you think he's guilty."
Olivia didn't respond to his accusation. "Let's just allow this situation to work itself out," she said instead.
Fitz shook his head. "This entire case feeds right into all of your assumptions about people like me, and even Malcolm. You probably feel good that you've been proven right. Malcolm may have broken one of the basic rules, but he's innocent."
"What rule?"
This time Fitz really looked at Olivia and realized that after all their time together building their relationship, all they'd overcome and after what they'd been through, she still had no idea what life in his world was really like. "To never be alone with a woman you don't know or who you just met."
"Why?"
"Because they'll lie and cheat if it means they can somehow get a nice payday," he said simply.
Her eyes grew wide. "I don't believe you said that! Do you honestly believe that?"
"Welcome to the world of professional sports."
Fitz left the room and headed down the hall to the front door. "As I said, I have an early meeting."
"Is this how it's going to end between us?"
Fitz closed his eyes at her words. His back was still to her. Her question caused a pain in his heart. He was torn between the football player who couldn't afford to have any distractions, and the man desperately in love with the beautiful woman, the love of his life, standing behind him, pleading. "I can't do this right now, Livvie."
"Do what? Love me? Care about me? Be with me?" When he didn't respond, she stepped around him and looked into his eyes. "There is room both of us in your life, Fitz. Don't use this as an excuse to push me away."
"I'll call you when I return from Charlotte."
Understanding she couldn't make him give more than he could right now, Olivia walked out the door and possibly out of his life.