A Winning Season Chapter 27, a scandal fanfic

Hey everybody, y'all all right? Happy New Year! I wish you all every success this year. I hope that you will find joy and success in every aspect of you lives. I've received several PMs, and I've also noticed comments in the reviews, about an update. As I've told a few others, I'm sorry it's taken so long but writing is a process, and I try to give you guys my best. Thank you all you so much for continuing to read AWS, leaving your reviews and suggestions, and for your PMs. Also, for being patient. (well some of you, anyway. lol) I really appreciate you all. And to those who have stayed with AWS, thank you so much.

Last chapter, we left off with our favorite couple finally getting back to each other. Chapter 27 picks up a week after with Olitz spending more time together. I hope you enjoy what I've put together. Let me know. Happy reading.

TBOT

Note: Please wear a mask!

The next few weeks were a whirlwind between the remaining games and the holiday season. The regular season was winding down, and it was also officially Christmas time with holiday music, lights and decorations everywhere, and everyone was in a festive mood. Fitz and Olivia were back together and were spending as much time as they could together.

The Wives Club was busy out in the community participating in holiday events for local charities, and sometimes the Team joined them but their time wasn't really their own. Olivia was also busy with lawyers trying to keep their clients out of jail for the holidays. Her office was swamped, and at first it seemed that there was no end in sight. Most evenings, when she returned home, she was too exhausted to do anything but speak briefly to Fitz before falling asleep. She was MIA from the Wives Club events and it had not gone unnoticed.

Week 15…

Olivia sat in the Team suite, along with Joey and Julian, as the team prepared to take on Seattle. The Foursome was going out to dinner after the game, and afterward Olivia was going home…and so was Fitz.

"I was hoping you came today. I know you've been extra busy," Lauren said when Olivia sat down next to her.

"Sorry I haven't made it to any Wives events, but I heard you ladies are doing a great job."

"I am so glad you suggested that we volunteer in the community along with writing a check. It's been so rewarding and I think we're all getting so much out of it."

Olivia smiled at her friend, remembering Benny's initial reaction when she'd made the suggestion. Now it seemed they were enjoying being out in the community.

"I've been feeling guilty about not being around so much." Olivia glanced at Lauren wondering if she should share what happened. She knew Lauren would keep whatever she said between them. "But Fitz and I have been going through a rough time."

Lauren looked at Olivia to make sure she wasn't kidding. "But you're good now, right?" she asked, squeezing Olivia's hand, not asking for details.

Olivia's face broke into a wide grin. "We're past it, and we are definitely in a better place than the last few weeks. I actually missed you guys and I didn't want to lie to any of you, so I kept my distance."

Lauren placed an arm around Olivia's shoulder. "I'm glad to hear that. I would really hate to see you two break-up. You're good for Fitz, and for the team. And had I known what was going on, I wouldn't have pressured you to participate in those activities with us."

"It's okay. Fitz and I decided it was best for the team if we kept it to ourselves." She looked at Lauren. "I hope that despite all of this, and even if Fitz and I aren't together, we're still cool."

Lauren shook her head and waved off Olivia's words. "Girl, what are you talking about? Don't you know you're a member of the Wives Club for life? You convinced Benny to make-up with you, and to change the rules, so you're stuck with us."

Olivia chuckled. "I think I can live with that."

"As if you have a choice. Now come on, let's get a drink before kickoff."

The Team won easily and later, Olivia, Joey and Julian waited with the others for the guys to exit the locker room. They hadn't decided where they wanted to go for dinner and were waiting for Fitz to make their final decision. Fortunately, with Fitz in their party, they wouldn't need a reservation.

After a few more minutes, Fitz finally exited the locker room along with Drew, they were deep in conversation. This was only the second time she'd seen him casually dressed after a game. He wore dark washed jeans, a handmade blue cotton shirt underneath a v-neck, camel colored cashmere pullover sweater, brown suede Church's Ryder III desert boots and a navy, three button topcoat. She stood admiring her man, along with several other women. She couldn't blame them though, because she would have a hard time herself not looking his way, woman on his arm or not. Of course he was always oblivious to any of the other women around them because he loved and respected his Livvie too much.

When they parted, Drew left with Lauren and Fitz searched for his love. When their eyes met, Olivia couldn't hold back the huge grin that lit up her face. Fitz smiled back and hurriedly walked toward her, and Joey and Julian. She met him halfway. He leaned down and softly kissed her lips before pulling her into an embrace. He looked down and smiled at her, and she returned it.

"Great game, baby."

"Thank you, Livvie." He kissed her forehead. "Today makes three days in a row that I've seen you, and I like it. I don't want anything to ever keep us apart again."

Olivia nodded, blinking back tears. The previous two days, just being in each other's presence, was everything. They still hadn't been intimate but they knew it would happen when it was time. They'd talked…a lot, and just had fun.

Early Friday evening…

Olivia had just removed her wool camel coat from the coat closet when her doorbell rang. She'd been pacing back and forth waiting for Fitz to arrive, excited about spending the evening with him. She hadn't gotten much sleep the previous night and to anyone who didn't know, she was behaving as if this was their first date.

He'd told her to dress casual, so she'd chosen black moto leather leggings, a black wool tunic sweater and over-the-knee, four-inch suede boots in cognac. The only make-up she wore on her smooth honey brown complexion was eyeliner, mascara and a bold, red lip. She'd washed and deep conditioned her hair earlier and allowed it to air dry into a profusion of curls, which she knew Fitz loved. Her look was completed with large gold hoop earrings and Fitz's bracelet.

Fitz had called her earlier but hadn't divulged where they were going. Olivia honestly didn't care as long as they were doing whatever it was together. Her heart raced with anticipation just as it had the first time he'd come to pick her up so many months ago. She tossed her coat on the sofa and made her way to the door,.

"Hi," she said, smiling up at him and then stepping back so he could enter, before closing the door.

"Hi." Fitz leaned down and kissed her tenderly. "You are absolutely gorgeous."

"Thank you." Her eyes traveled slowly over him from his bearded and mustached face, over his broad shoulders down to his wide chest to his lean middle, trim waist, muscled thighs, long legs and his distinct masculine bulge. She missed all of him. He was well groomed and impeccably dressed, as usual, in plain toe Chukka boots in black, washed black jeans, a grey lambswool zip sweater and a black leather biker jacket. She knew he'd used his fingers to perfect his hair and shape it into its current style. Her man was the total package.

Fitz watched her perusal of him and found it sexually arousing. He grinned wanting nothing more than to remove his jacket and allow her to explore his body with her soft little hands, like she always did. The thought of her hands moving over his long inches had him so hard he almost groaned out loud, and he knew they needed to leave, now.

"Are you ready to go?"

Olivia nodded. She walked over to the sofa and retrieved her coat. Fitz took it from her and helped her into it. When he finished, she picked up her purse and they made their way to the front door, and the elevator, and finally the lobby where several people congratulated him on the Team's season. This city loved Fitzgerald Grant. Once they were in the Cayenne, Fitz turned to face her.

"I thought we'd go to MAZI."

"Oh I love their lamb chops."

Fitz grinned. "I know." He leaned over and kissed her lips. He'd chosen the restaurant because he knew it was one of Olivia's favorites, and because it was quiet and the staff made sure that no one intruded on their privacy. Starting the vehicle, the powerful engine came alive and he quickly merged into the early evening D.C. traffic with the love of his life by his side.

After almost three hours of conversation, just like old times, and a delicious meal, the couple left the restaurant headed to Fitz's surprise.

"So where are we going?" Olivia tried once again.

"It's a surprise."

"Will you at least give me a hint?"

"Nope. If I tell you anything, it won't be a surprise."

"What if I guess?"

He chuckled and shook his head. "Still, no."

"I guess the sooner we get there, the sooner my suspense will end."

"Yep, so you just sit back and relax, and we'll be there in fifteen minutes."

"Fitz," she whined, crossing her arms like a petulant child, and causing him to laugh. "You're really not going to tell me where we're going?"

"No, I'm not telling you, Livvie, so stop asking." He reached for her hand and squeezed.

"So that's how you're going to be?"

"Yes. But I hope you're ready to have some fun."

Olivia pouted and looked at him, but her eyes soon softened. He looked so happy and content to be with her. No one would guess that they'd had a little drama in their relationship. It was as if it never happened. "Okay. I'll play your little game, but it better be fun, mister," she said poking him on his broad shoulder.

Fitz laughed and she straightened in her seat and stared out the window. When they approached the White House, the forty-eight foot National Tree could be seen in all its glory.

"Oh my goodness, Fitz. Just look at it. Isn't it beautiful?"

Fitz enjoyed the childlike excitement written all over her face as they drove by. He also knew that she'd loved Christmas since she was a child. She'd told him not long after they'd first met that it was her favorite time of year.

It's all about the feeling of that time of year. It's a peaceful and happy feeling, and I just love it," she'd said.

"It is pretty amazing," Fitz admitted.

"It's VERY amazing," she whispered as they slowly drove by.

This was the Olivia Pope not many people got to see. The one he'd told her he wanted to get to know when they'd first met. And he had. Slowly she'd let down her guard and allowed Fitz a place in her heart.

Olivia's excitement cemented his plans for them the next day.

A few moments later they were driving into the underground garage of the Capital One Arena. Olivia looked around at the people wearing Washington Capitals jerseys and turned to Fitz.

"We're going to a hockey game?" she asked incredulously.

Fitz nodded, grinning, He was very proud of himself. "Yes. We've gone to a Nationals and a Wizards game, the Football Team, obviously, and finally the Capitals. Plus they're playing the New York Rangers, their hated rivals, and my favorite hockey team. This should be a good game."

Olivia stared at him a full minute before nodding. "Okay."

"Livvie if you're not up to a hockey game tonight, we can leave. I just wanted to do something different."

She was not a hockey fan, and had never been to a game. From what little she'd seen on television, the sport seemed rough and loud, two things that she'd tried to avoid as much as possible in her life, until she began dating an NFL quarterback. But, she also wanted to be with Fitz. Finally, she turned to him with a huge smile on her face.

"I'm game, baby."

He leaned over and kissed her nose before pulling back and giving her that lopsided grin. "Good. Let's go."

Fitz drove up to the valet stand and two young men opened both their doors. Both men were excited to see Fitz Grant and congratulated him on the season he was having. Fitz thanked them, as he exited the vehicle, and jogged around to the passenger side to assist Olivia. They were met by a host from guest relations at the VIP entrance who escorted them up to the private team owner's suite.

At the end of the game, Olivia discovered that like football, she could learn to like hockey. The game was intense, and there was lots of action. The zamboni was cool, and the players were hot, but nowhere near as hot as the man sitting next to her. The fans were yelling and screaming and swearing, which reminded her of a football game. A fight had broken out less than five seconds into the game. The gloves came off and several players started fighting. She'd never seen anything like it but found herself cheering along with the other fans. It was definitely more entertaining than the scuffles that broke out at Fitz's games.

When the couple had entered the suite, Fitz was surprised when Olivia was greeted by the Capitals' only two Black ownership partners. She later explained that both were friends of her parents and she'd known them most of her life. They'd all had a ball and the Capitals lost a close one. They both thanked their hosts and headed out.

On their drive home, Olivia could barely contain her excitement, and all she could talk about was the game. She was still wired.

"Fitz!" she said. "That was so much fun! I can't wait to do it again."

"Seriously? More fun than MY games?" He knew she'd had a good time, but this was definitely a surprise. "You want to attend another Capitals game?"

Olivia smirked at him. "This game was different from your games. I'm always on my best behavior because I represent you, but tonight I was just another fan. So, yes." She nodded enthusiastically. "Yes, I do want to attend another game."

Fitz laughed. "Okay. We'll go again when my season ends."

Olivia leaned over and kissed his cheek. "Thank you, babe."

"Anything for you."

Not long after, Fitz and Olivia were on the elevator up to her condo. He couldn't believe that the time had gone by so fast. Or so it seemed.

"I had a great time tonight, Fitz," she said as she wrapped her arms around his waist, and looked up at him.

"I'm glad, so did I." He leaned down and kissed her. The kiss was sweet and tender. Groaning deep in his throat, Fitz reluctantly pulled back when the elevator chimed and the doors open.

With his arm possessively wrapped around her shoulders, he walked her to her door.

Olivia was surprised when Fitz took her keys and unlocked the door. Still standing in the hall, he pulled her close again, and went in for another kiss. This kiss was deeper, more intense, and they both definitely wanted more. Finally coming up for air, he leaned his forehead against hers.

"What are your plans for tomorrow?"

Olivia smiled. "Make me an offer I can't refuse."

Fitz laughed. "I'll pick you up around nine. Let's start with breakfast."

He kissed her once more and handed her the keys. "Good night," he whispered. "I love you, Livvie."

Olivia frowned. "Don't you want to come in?" She wanted him…NOW.

"Absolutely…but not tonight."

She nodded.

"I'll see you tomorrow morning."

She kissed his lips. "I'll see you then. I love you."

He turned to walk back to the elevator. "Will you be okay driving back to Great Falls tonight?" She knew he was tired.

Fitz grinned. "I'm staying at the condo tonight."

"Okay. Drive safe and call when you get home."

"I will."

Saturday afternoon…

"That is one tall tree," Fitz said as he stood back looking at the eight foot Douglas Fir in front of a large window in her living room. He was admiring his handiwork. Olivia had tasked him with stringing the lights, which was her least favorite thing to do, and he'd made quick work of it, doing a great job.

Olivia scoffed. "It's only eight feet. I didn't get the tree I wanted because SOMEONE talked me out of it." She side eyed Fitz, who laughed.

"Seriously, Fitz one of the reasons I chose this condo was because of the high ceilings. I'm always thinking about the National Tree when I'm decorating mine."

"You have very grand Christmas décor ideas," he quipped.

She chuckled and shrugged. "You only live once."

"Yes," he said glancing at her. "You do. Are the lights okay?" he asked.

"They're beautiful, babe." She leaned up and kissed his cheek. Seeing her smile made it all worthwhile. He would, he realized, do anything to keep that smile on her face.

They'd begun their day together having breakfast at Fitz's favorite quiet and out-of-the way diner. He'd been greeted by the regulars who were always there on Saturday mornings, and who weren't impressed with his celebrity status. It wasn't fancy, but the food was good. She'd loved it instantly. They took their seats in a booth in back, and talked and flirted while they ate. After finishing an excellent breakfast, they headed to their next destination: a Christmas tree farm in Centreville, Virginia, where they walked around for almost an hour until Olivia found the PERFECT tree.

He stood, with her wrapped in his arms, watching the tree lot attendant cut down the tree and thought, would this be them in a few years? Married with children, and looking for a tree for the home, and the family, they'd created together?

"Did you make these?" Fitz asked reaching into one of the boxes of decorations that had been brought up from storage to her condo by building maintenance. He removed two paper ornaments covered in cotton balls and red and green glitter.

Olivia looked over at him. "I certainly did," she replied with pride and moved closer to take them from his hands. "When I was in third grade I made an entire set of twenty-four, so both my mother and my grandmothers could have some. I also kept a few for my own tree."

"You kept these all that time when you could have just bought new ornaments," he said.

She nodded. "Fitz, some of these ornaments are from when I was in kindergarten and special ones from my parents. Every ornament has a story. It's like opening a time capsule every year when I decorate my tree. I want to do the same thing with OUR children." She looked at him shyly when she said the last words.

Fitz returned her smile. He wanted the same thing.

"Does Julian still have ornaments from HIS childhood?"

Olivia scoffed. "Please, he wouldn't be caught dead with homemade ornaments on his perfect, professionally decorated tree. It's going to be interesting watching J and Jo decorate their tree this year, because they have completely different taste."

Fitz laughed. He agreed, they were complete opposites but they loved each other enough to make it work.

Olivia took a sip from the large glass of wine then continued removing items from another box.

"Come here, Livvie."

She looked up and noticed the mysterious look on Fitz's face and a hand behind his back. She angled her head.

"What are you up to, Grant?"

He smiled and reached out a hand to her. She looked at his hand then back at his handsome face before walking over to him.

"Do you know the magic of the mistletoe, Livvie?" he asked as he opened his hand revealing a sprig he'd found in the box he was looking through.

She moved closer to him, shaking her head.

"No, I don't think I do."

"Oh but you should, Livvie. You see, throughout history, mistletoe was supposed to grant life and fertility. It was also said to be an aphrodisiac."

She chuckled, shaking her head in astonishment. "How do you know this?"

He shrugged. "I read it somewhere."

"Really."

Fitz nodded. "Really. That is why kissing under the mistletoe became a tradition. At Christmas, a ball of mistletoe with berries, like this, would be hung."

Olivia looked down at his hand, again, and then back up at his face. His eyes were now darker almost cobalt. They always changed like that when he wanted her. And he definitely WANTED her. The feeling was mutual.

"It was said that no unmarried woman could refuse a kiss if she stood underneath the mistletoe," he continued. "Each time the young woman was kissed, the young man would pluck one of the berries until there weren't anymore, and then the ball would be taken down until the next year. If the young woman wasn't kissed before the ball was taken down, she wouldn't be married. The kiss was supposed to be a promise or symbol of marriage or something, when really it was just a kiss. But some people call it mistletoe magic."

"Fitz, how do you KNOW this?"

"I don't know. I may have heard it somewhere." He looked at his girlfriend as her fingers rubbed over the sprig of mistletoe in his hand.

"So, some women would hang this each year in hopes that some man would come and kiss her, and marry her?" she asked softly.

She looked at him and knew that he was aroused at that very moment. She wasn't certain what did it, and it didn't really matter, but the sexual tension was there and it was rising, just the way it always did between them.

"Some do," he replied. "But you won't have to do that, Livvie."

She shook her head. "No, I won't."

"How about trying a little of that magic right now," he said as he lifted his arm, and the mistletoe, high above them. His other arm slipped around her waist and he pulled her closer to him. "Try a kiss under the mistletoe and see just how magical it is."

Fitz lowered his head and their lips touched, slowly and lightly at first, but then with more pressure. He shifted, and Olivia felt the hardness of his erection against her stomach and the kiss grew deeper.

Her mouth opened under his and he dropped the mistletoe, pulling her tighter into his arms.

Before Olivia knew it, Fitz had walked them across the room and her back hit the wall, but she'd barely noticed because of Fitz's mouth, and his skillful hands running through her hair and over her body. She thrust her hips involuntarily against his erection, leaning fully into his kiss. He returned the favor, sucking her lip deep into his mouth and her thighs trembled. Her eyes closed and in that moment all she knew, all she wanted was this man, HER man, deep inside her. But instead, she pulled away quickly, walking around him and putting some distance between them.

"Fitz, stop!" she said in a last minute attempt to halt where this was definitely heading. "We have to stop."

Fitz shook his head. "Livvie, we can't stop. I can't stop," his voice was thick and hoarse, and filled with arousal and raw desire.

He stepped closer to her and her hands slid up his hard body until her arms were wrapped around his neck. His lips sought hers and she moaned into his mouth, and leaned her body into his, feeling that part of him that had brought her so much pleasure.

"Livvie," Fitz whispered, squeezing her ass, bringing her closer to where he wanted her.

"Fitz! Okay…wait!" Her breathing was accelerated. "Fitz, this can't happen now. You have a game tomorrow." Her words had had their intended effect as he loosened his hold on her body, and what she'd said began to sink in. Slowly he lowered his forehead to hers and got himself under control before touching her again, careful to keep some distance below his waist. As his breathing returned to normal and his heart rate slowed, he became aware of just how close they'd come.

"I lost my head, baby," he said, gently stroking her cheek. "You're right, I do have a game tomorrow and I need to be at my best on the field."

Olivia nodded, agreeing with him. "And I will NOT be the reason for a poor performance, or another loss."

Fitz nodded in understanding. "My game was really off at practice yesterday, because I couldn't seem to concentrate on anything but you. I've never had that problem before. Never. I don't want to go out on the field tomorrow and make a fool of myself. Sex is just not smart right now."

"I'm glad you realize that, mister."

"I do. But also, Coach somehow ALWAYS knows when someone has been indulging."

Olivia laughed. "How does he know? Are you guys THAT close?"

"No. He just knows. And the punishment he wreaks on the team because of one player's indiscretion is brutal."

"Well I don't want you to break the rules, because the team will have to pay."

Fitz nodded. "Yes. Everyone is supposed to be abstaining, but not everybody is doing so. Obviously.

"Well I won't allow you to betray the team."

"Thank you, because if you were willing I certainly wouldn't turn you down." He hugged her to him and she rested her cheek on his chest. "There's nothing I want more than to make love to you, Livvie." He leaned down and kissed her hair. "My control around you is non-existent. But I have to work tomorrow and can't spend the evening in bed with you, not if I want to win." He whispered near her ear. "I can't do that if I cum inside you tonight."

Olivia leaned back in his arms, smiling and shaking her head. "You are so bad, but I like it. You also have to be at your best on the field, so…"

"We don't make love."

She shook her head. "Not today. But it's going to take self-control, lots of self-control. It's also going to require a whole lot of self-discipline."

Fitz sighed. "If I didn't have a few more games to play in the regular season, I'd be afraid you no longer wanted me."

Olivia rolled her eyes. "Sex is not everything in a relationship, Fitz, you know that. And I will always want you. Have you SEEN you?"

He chuckled. "You know I mean our relationship."

"I do, and I'm not going anywhere."

"Neither am I. I love you, Livvie."

"I love you too, Fitz."

He reached out and trailed a finger along her jaw before softly kissing her lips one more time. "Now, let's forget about the mistletoe and the magic and the self-control, and get busy decorating that rather large tree."

Olivia threw back her head and laughed. "Okay, mister. But first I need to top off my glass of wine, and put on some Christmas music. Can I get you anything?"

"No thanks, I'm good, so get to it," he said swatting her ass as she walked away, causing her to laugh again.

When she returned, he was waiting. "Let's do this."

Two hours later…

Hey, it's another Christmas holiday
It's a joyous thing, let the angels sing
'Cause we're together
We got a thing here, can't let it slip away
Though outside is rain and sleet
When our bodies meet...
I don't care 'bout the weather

Let it snow, let it snow
Outside it's cold but the fire's blazing
So baby let it snow
Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow

Olivia stood in Fitz's arms as they danced to the Boyz II Men classic playing through the hidden speakers throughout the condo. His arms were wrapped around her waist, as they moved in sync. They'd laughed and talked while decorating her tree, creating memories.

When the tree had been decorated to Olivia's high standards, Fitz turned on the lights and they stood back to admire the excellent job they'd done. He watched the twinkling lights reflected in Olivia's beautiful doe eyes, and glanced down at her face as it glowed with the lights from the tree.

The tree looked magnificent. "Now that's what I call a tree!" Olivia declared. "It's perfect, Fitz."

"Yes, it's beautiful." And the tree WAS beautiful once they added all the ornaments, new and old. He'd smiled when Olivia finally brought out the beautiful black angel tree topper and insisted on putting it on the tree herself. He'd retrieved her six step ladder from her storage, and then held it as he watched her carefully climb up, one rung at a time. He didn't even try to pretend that he wasn't looking at her butt.

"How does it look?" she asked.

"Oh it's perfect," he said, looking up at her ass.

"I'm talking about the angel, Fitz," she said staring at down at him with a smirk on her face.

Fitz grinned. "That's perfect too."

"Fitz," she said, exasperated.

"It looks great, Livvie. Now come on down."

She slowly climbed down the rungs on the ladder but her feet never touched the floor as Fitz swept her into his arms and pressed his lips to hers.

Current…

Stroking a finger against the smoothness of her cheek, Fitz looked down into Olivia's upturned face. He loved the feel of her in his arms, could never get enough of her…didn't want to.

"I love you."

Leaning down he kissed her lips, breathing her in. She tasted like the peppermint dark chocolate she'd been eating earlier. He deepened the kiss, parting her lips with his tongue to taste more of what he wanted. This woman had become his drug of choice, and he was definitely addicted.

Olivia wrapped her arms around his thick neck, while Fitz moved even closer until her breasts were pressed against his chest. She moaned and his body began to respond. He knew he should stop, reel it in, but the beast had a mind of its own. It also didn't help that Olivia was kissing him like she needed him to satisfy her needs, NOW. Thankfully, she pushed away, breaking their connection.

"What?"

"It's getting late. Don't you guys have a walk through this evening?" Since it was a home game the Team was meeting at the team hotel for walk-throughs and meetings that evening.

Fitz looked at his watch. "Yes, I need to get going. I have to pick up a few things from home before heading to the hotel." He knew that if he didn't leave in the next thirty seconds, his resolve would disappear. "I'll see you tomorrow evening. We're still having dinner with Joey and Julian after the game, right?"

She nodded. "Yes," and turned to walk away. But Fitz's strong arms embraced her from behind. She closed her eyes loving that she never felt safer than when she was in his arms. His lips graced her neck.

"Good. It's been a while since the four of us got together for some fun."

"Yeah, sometimes I don't recognize my brother at all. Jo has turned him out."

The vibrations of his sexy, deep chuckle flowed throughout her body as he held her close to him, her back against his chest, dropping kisses all over her neck. They slowly walked to the coat closet to retrieve his jacket. "Julian definitely has his hands full."

They stopped at the closet and Olivia opened the door, and removed his jacket from the wooden hanger, and helping him slip it on.

"I have to go, Livvie. I'll see you tomorrow after the game."

"Okay."

Fitz leaned down and kissed Olivia's cheek. "I love you."

"I love you, too. Good luck tomorrow."

"Thank you." He turned and opened the door, and then he was gone.

Present…

Finally, the couple joined Julian and Joey, who were too caught up each other to notice them approach.

Olivia cleared her throat.

"Fitz," Julian said, smiling at his future brother-in-law. "Great game, man. You looked good out there." He extended an arm and the two men bumped shoulders in that one-armed hug men usually did.

"Thanks, J," Fitz said. "I appreciate it."

He then leaned over to kiss Joey's cheek. "Hello, beauty. It's so good to see you. As always, thanks for coming." He would always be grateful to Joey, who'd been his ally from the very beginning.

She smiled and looked at Fitz. "Hey, Fitz. Congratulations on the win."

"Thank you."

Fitz hugged Olivia closer to his side. "Have you guys decided what you want for dinner?"

"No, we were waiting for you decide," Joey said.

"Well, I'm thinking about a ribeye. How about The Prime Rib in the city?"

Julian smiled, quickly agreeing. "My man," he said giving Fitz a pound, prompting Olivia and Joey to laugh at their men. With the decision made, the two couples agreed to meet at the restaurant. Fitz ushered Olivia to the Cayenne, which had been brought to stadium from the hotel for him, and they made their way to D.C.

One week later…

It was game day Sunday and Olivia decided to work in her home office until the one o' clock game time. The Team was playing in Minnesota. She'd been up early that morning for a swim and a quick outing to the market. By the time she returned home, she had about two hours before game time. She was busy reading over her investigator's notes for a probable cause hearing she had first thing Monday morning, when she heard Fitz's name, and her head snapped up.

On the television, a prerecorded interview had just started to play. He was dressed in his standard workout gear: sweats and a long sleeve Team t-shirt, and she could see that it was taped at the Team's facility in Ashburn. And from the looks of it, it was recent. The segment opened with shots of FedEx Field, the Team on the playing field, and of course, Fitz.

Slowly she stood and made her way over to the sofa in her office so she could watch as Fitz talked to one of his favorite reporters, Michelle Flowers.

"Fitz, this season has been your best over your eleven year career. I mean the Football Team has already clinched their division and with a win against Dallas, they'll clinch home field advantage and a first round bye. What's different this year?"

"Well Michelle, last year's loss in the NFC championship game left a bitter taste in all our mouths, and we all said never again. But we're not living in the past, anymore. We put that loss behind us and now we're putting in the work, and coming together as a team. We are also now stronger, and more focused on the job we need to do if we want to make it to Miami, and win it all.

"The rumor is that if you and the Team win it all this year, you will retire," the Michelle stated.

Fitz smiled. "Rumors are just that, Michelle, rumors. However, my options are open and my reps will explore each once this season is over. I want to see this team finish what we started last year. I may soon be at the end of my football journey, but there are a lot of guys whose careers are just beginning and they have the chance to win a Super Bowl, and so do I."

"I'm glad you said that," she said. "Do you think this will be the season the Team wins it all?"

"You know, I've had a great career to date and I'm excited to be in a situation, along with a great group of guys, where I'm still playing at a very high level with an opportunity to go and win a Super Bowl. That is my ultimate goal, the one thing I haven't been able to accomplish. Anything can happen, but with this group of guys, I'm confident we will get the job done. But we still have to get through the regular season and the playoffs before we think about the goal we set at training camp: winning the Super Bowl."

"You've had to beat some pretty strong teams to get to sixteen and one, and with very few injuries. But you currently have some playmakers out with injuries. What does that mean for the rest of the Team?"

"The team will be just fine," Fitz answered. "Losing three starters for two games won't hurt us."

"Even if one of those starters is all-pro running back, Victor Fuller?"

Victor should be okay this week but even if we lose another game, mathematically we'll still have home field advantage and a first round bye. He's going to sit the next two weeks as a precaution and he'll be well rested for the playoffs. The Team is in a good position in the NFC. There's no need to risk any of those guys. I have other weapons and options, and we're going to have to step up and play big, and I'm still going to have to command the huddle." Fitz gave Michelle a charming smile.

There were a few more questions about the Team and then the interview got a little personal.

"Well throughout the season I've noticed that you've had a lot of support from the Team, and at home."

Fitz chuckled, he knew where she was going with her questions, and he was going to be honest. Well as honest as he could be. "Yes, there are a lot people who help keep me grounded and focused. From the Team management, coaching staff, friend, especially retired players, and my family, they've done all they could to keep away the distractions."

She wasn't going to let it go. "Is that all?"

Fitz sighed but kept his smile in place. "There is someone who has helped me and supported me throughout the season. I couldn't have imagined she'd change the entire course of my life, and my future, but she has."

Olivia sat watching, barely able to breathe. She loved this man so much. Seeing him like this brought back memories of all that they'd shared, and she wished that he was right there beside her.

"Having that partner in life, that special someone, is really the difference between just surviving the season and thriving during the season," he continued. "We see the same thing in football. A good coach can help a team survive the season, but a great coach will help a team thrive. The Football Team has thrived this year, thanks to Coach Fauci, and we've got a great team. All of the parts have come together for us, and we're going out and winning games. But I don't know if I'd be where I am without her support, and her belief in me."

"So does this mean you're looking to join the ranks of married NFL players soon?"

Fitz broke out into full-throated laughter. "I don't think I can say too much without her approval. But she knows who she is and how much she's done for me. I don't think I would've been as successful this season without her." He looked directly into the camera, placing a hand over his heart. "Love you, Livvie."

And just like that, the interview was over and Olivia sat staring at the screen, shell shocked. She didn't blink for what felt like an hour, absorbing what she'd just seen and heard. She'd had no idea he had done the interview, but then again, he'd been so busy lately maybe he forgot to tell her. Her man had just told millions of viewers how much she meant to him, and that just made her love him more. Tears filled her eyes and any residual doubt and anxiety she might have had about them, melted away. All she could see was a path forward…with him. And she was ready to move on, now.

After a few minutes, she reached for her phone and sent him a quick text message knowing that it might be a few hours before he saw it.

I love and miss you. 11:30 am

She was surprised when she heard her phone chime with a notification, but she knew it was him.

You are my heart. Love and miss you too. 11:35 am

Later that evening…

Olivia stood in the mirror in her bathroom, looking closely at her face. She'd cleansed and moisturized before she got into the shower. She wore a short, silk robe over naked body which glowed with coconut oil lotion. Her thoughts drifted to Fitz, and the interview. She was still in shock that he had declared to the entire nation that she was his love. He'd called earlier, before the team's charter left the Twin Cities after another win, but he hadn't mentioned the interview, and neither had she. But she knew they would eventually talk about it. She could hear ESPN on the television in the background. She'd tuned in and watched the game highlights of Fitz's outstanding play.

She'd just walked out of the bathroom when the doorbell rang. Frowning, she looked at the small clock on her night table and noticed that it was almost ten o' clock. She wasn't expecting anyone, but thought that maybe it was Joey, or even T.C. Reaching for her phone, she pulled up her security camera and saw the visitor. Fitz.

Her breath caught in her throat. She wasn't expecting him. He must have headed to D.C. after the Team arrived in Ashburn. It didn't matter; he was at her front door and she was happier than ever to see him. Running from her bedroom to the front door, she flung it open and jumped into his arms. She clearly caught him off guard, but he was fast, catching her and pulling her against his chest, his large palms slid over her ass cheeks, and her legs wrapped around his waist, as he effortlessly held her.

"Whoa, Livvie," he said, laughing, as he walked them inside, closing and locking the door.

Olivia didn't respond but continued to kiss his face.

"I'm glad you're happy to see me."

Olivia finally looked into his eyes. "What are you doing here?" She was so excited to see him that she could not hide the huge smile on her face. The shock of seeing him unexpectedly tonight had worn off quickly. He was just what she needed.

"I couldn't wait any longer to see you." He leaned down and kissed her nose. They hadn't seen each other since Wednesday because of Fitz's schedule. His days had been nonstop practice. If he wasn't on the field, he was in the film room, or the weight room working on strength training, not that he needed to get any stronger. But it cut into their time together.

"Me too, babe. I miss and want you so much."

"Oh yeah?" he asked as he walked them over to the sofa and sat with her straddling his lap. He was already semi-erect, which made her long to feel him inside her even more. It had been far too long.

Olivia reached between them to touch him. Fitz closed his eyes and moved against her hand for a moment, but then seemed to think more clearly and removed her hand.

"Livvie, you know I can't focus when you're doing that."

She chuckled lowly. "That's what I usually say to myself when I'm around you."

Fitz gave her that lopsided grin. "Do I still have that effect on you?"

She leaned her forehead against his. "You know you do."

"I'm glad to hear that."

Olivia lifted her head and looked into the beautiful eyes of the man who made her feel so much, and framed his face in her small hands. "I love you madly, Fitzgerald Thomas Grant, III."

Fitz's eyes became fixated on her lips and he smiled as he leaned in close. He looked into her eyes as he slowly covered her mouth with his. He kissed her deeply, and she felt butterflies in her belly as if it was their first time. It was several moments before he pulled back and then looked into her eyes. "We're moving forward and not looking back, Livvie. We can both now admit we made mistakes."

Olivia nodded. Fitz was right, they'd both made mistakes and this was a fresh start for them.

"I want to make sure that you know my intentions, what I want for us. I'm going to do better with showing you that I can communicate, and more importantly, not leaving or running when times get hard. So when that special day comes, and I'm on bended knee, you'll have no doubt that I deserve to be your husband. I mean you did say that you're 'the damn prize' in this relationship."

"I am that," Olivia said, nodding and laughing along with Fitz. Her face grew serious again. "And I'm going to work on my stubbornness, learn to apologize and accept when I'm wrong."

Fitz shook his head in wonder. "Wow, I can't believe you said that to me. A lawyer, who's always right, admitted to sometimes being wrong. I didn't think that was even possible."

Olivia playfully pinched his hard bicep.

"Ouch, woman." Fitz rubbed the spot she'd pinched. "That hurt. I'm going to cut you off if you do it again," he said quoting what she'd told him months ago." And I was just making an observation."

She leaned down and kissed the spot he rubbed. "I'm sorry, babe. But you know how much it took just for me to admit that."

Fitz nodded. "I do."

She relaxed against his chest. "Fitz, when I'm with you, I feel understood…respected…protected." She kissed him briefly. "I know I'm not always the easiest person to be around."

"Who is?" he asked, smiling softly at her. "Even when you're giving me a hard time, I'm completely captivated by you. Being with me isn't always easy either, and there will be days when we fight, but I can't imagine fighting with anyone but you."

Olivia hugged him tightly. "Fitz, you're incredible, you know that? You do so much for me too, and you're so good to me too. You're the best lover, and my best friend."

"You saw the interview, huh?"

She nodded. "I did. And I want you to know that you've changed the entire course of my life, and my future too. This wasn't the life I expected but it's definitely the life I want. I love you so much." Her eyes filled with tears.

He grinned as he took her face in his palms and kissed each cheek. "And there's no one else I want to do this with. You hear me? I love you unconditionally, Olivia Pope."

Olivia smiled at his choice of words, remembering the conversation she'd had with his mother when they'd met for brunch. "I feel the same way, babe?"

"You love me unconditionally?"

"Of course I do." But she had another question for him. "Fitz did you tell your mother about our 'break?'"

He frowned. "No, why?"

"You sound a lot like her. When we met for brunch, she figured out that something wasn't right between us."

"Really? What did she say?" He asked curiously.

Olivia laughed. "That's between your mother and me. She didn't want any details. She just wanted us to work out whatever was going on because she doesn't want any other daughter-in-law but me."

Fitz chuckled. "Well as far as I'm concerned, she doesn't have to worry about that at all." He pulled Olivia closer and she wrapped her arms around his neck. "So you and my mother talked about us and you don't plan to tell me what was said?"

"Nope. What's said between me and your mother, stays between me and your mother," she said smiling, barely able to control her laughter.

He lifted a brow. "Are you kidding?"

"No."

"Okay. Then I guess I have to force it out of you." He quickly flipped her so that she was lying on her back on the sofa and he hovered over her. He held both of her wrists in one hand and raised her arms above her head. The movement caused her robe to part, revealing her nakedness. He moved his free hand down her body to her core before resting it between her legs, causing Olivia to moan.

"There's nothing you can do to make me tell you," she teased.

"Are you sure about that?" He grinned devilishly. "Because I do have a few tricks up my sleeves."

"Doesn't matter, I'm still not telling you."

"Wanna bet?" Fitz released her wrists and stood from the sofa. Reaching down, he lifted Olivia over his shoulder, and walked them to her bedroom.

"Fitz!" She squealed when he playfully tossed her on the bed.

He quickly kicked off his shoes, and removed his sweater and t-shirt before joining her on the bed. He positioned his head between her legs and looked up at her. His beard tickled her inner thighs and a giggle slipped out as she squirmed.

"Last chance to confess, Livvie."

"You are so corny."

"Maybe. But you're making this hard on yourself." He moved a finger along her clit and the giggling abruptly turned into another moan. "One last chance."

"Never," she said shaking her head vigorously.

"You asked for it." Fitz spread her legs wider and held them open as his tongue licked up and down her clit, rendering her speechless.

Olivia kept trying to close her legs because of the intense pressure from his tongue, but he held them open, and she was at his mercy.

"Oh. My. God! Fitz, please stop torturing me!"

Fitz looked up from between her parted legs but continued to lick her as he gave her that lopsided grin. He slowly inserted two then three fingers inside her, and she grabbed his head.

"Oh, shi... Fitz. Fuc-," was all she managed to get out because her body was on fire.

"Are you ready to tell me?" he asked as he continued to work his tongue and his fingers on her clit.

Olivia's eyes were closed tight and she thrashed her head from side to side, barely able to speak. "You're going…to have…to bring out…the big gun…to make me talk."

And he did…

Much later…

Olivia lay exhausted in the still dark bedroom. With the door open she could see reflections of the lights from the Christmas tree in the living room. Her and Fitz had had the most raw and intense sex, possibly in their relationship. She looked at the small clock, and it was almost one in the morning. She then turned to look at Fitz, who was lying on his stomach, facing her, with an arm thrown across her middle.

He'd made love to her in so many ways that she'd become momentarily confused but had found her way back after experiencing her third, or was it her fourth, orgasm before finally collapsing into his arms, sated and exhausted. For several minutes they'd laid there catching their breath in silence.

Olivia finally murmured, "I will never make you wait that long again to make love, baby, because you will probably kill me next time."

Fitz had laughed tiredly. "Yeah that's just what we Grant men do."

Last night had been wild and she cringed at the soreness between her legs. She would definitely need to soak later. Glancing at Fitz, she watched him sleep. Afraid to wake him, yet unable to resist, she ran her finger across his lips; lips that had done amazing and erotic things to her body. He frowned in his sleep as she stared at him.

"Do you like what you see?" He asked, while his eyes remained closed.

"Yes, very much so." She leaned down and kissed both eyelids.

Fitz quickly kissed her lips before she could lean back against her pillow. "So do I." He lay back down, staring up at her. "What are you smiling about?" he asked.

"How happy I am you're here with me."

"Good. I'm happy too."

"And I couldn't sleep."

"What? I thought I put you to sleep for the rest of the night." He grinned proudly, propping himself up on one muscled arm while she rolled her eyes.

Olivia ran a finger over his bicep. "I had a nice nap."

"Wow, I'm whipped. You have more energy than I do. We've just had a few rounds of the best sex ever, and I'm exhausted."

"The best?"

"It wasn't?"

She chuckled, nodding her head. "Okay, it totally was."

Fitz laughed. "So it wasn't just me."

Olivia reached out and pushed back the curl on his forehead. "Well, I didn't want to say anything because men get an even bigger head when they think they've put it down."

He grinned. "You know me, Livvie. I like positive reinforcement."

Laughter, that she couldn't restrain, erupted from Olivia's gut.

"Oh that's funny to you?" he asked.

She nodded vigorously. "Yes!"

Fitz suddenly pulled her into his arms and hugged her tightly to his big body. He then turned her face toward his. She lowered her head to his and he kissed her so deeply that the laughter stopped and she moaned and gasped into his mouth. Slowly and smoothly he laid her on her back.

He finally pulled back and stared at her with hooded eyes. "I want some more positive reinforcement, Miss Pope," he said as he spread her legs with his knee.

Oh yeah?"

"Yeah. And you still haven't told me what you and my mother talked about."

Olivia reached out and touched his face, feeling the prickle of his beard on her hand. "No, I haven't," she whispered.

"But you will."

Four hours later…

"Babe, as much as I want to lie with you in this bed, I have to get ready for work," Olivia spoke softly in the quiet room. She wanted nothing more than spend the day in bed with him, loving him and planning their future.

Fitz sighed, hugging her tighter. "Do you really have to go into the office today? Can't you work from home?"

Olivia shook her head. "Not today. Most trials are suspended through the New Year, but I still have three meetings scheduled, and a court appearance. I'm trying to finish everything today because we have the Team's holiday party tomorrow and the Mayor's Holiday Ball on Friday."

"I didn't forget. It's just that we haven't spent time like this together since the 'incident.' I miss it."

"So do I, but Fitz you have to remain focused."

"And I will. I told you, I've loved only two things in my life: you and football, and I am going to have you both. I mean that." He began rubbing circles on her thigh and Olivia smiled at him.

"I know what you're trying to do, Grant, and it's not going to work."

He then began kissing her neck. "What am I trying to do, Pope?"

"You're trying to get me hot, hoping I'll change my mind and stay home, in bed with you." It was working but she wasn't going to give in. She couldn't. She had to go into the office for a few hours."

"Is it working?"

Olivia placed her arms around his neck as he cupped her breasts in his large palms, and continued kissing her neck. He moved against her and she felt his arousal. She gyrated her hips against his hard dick, without putting him inside, though she wanted to so badly.

She shuddered. "Yes. But I am not going to give in. Now, please move, before neither one of us makes it out of this bed."

Fitz kissed her forehead before he rolled over on his back. He sighed in contentment as he watched Olivia stand from the bed and walk across the room in all her perfect, beautiful and naked glory.

"I have a meeting with my reps at nine but I should be available for lunch. How would the most beautiful lawyer in D.C. like to join me?"

Olivia stood in the door of her closet, tying the belt on her robe. "Hmm, when you say lunch, do you mean food or fun, mister?"

Fitz smirked. "A little bit of both."

Olivia smiled. "I say yes to the food; the fun will have to wait. You have a film session later this afternoon."

Fitz sighed. "You've got a point. I'm also going to check on T, before heading home."

Olivia smiled. "That's sweet. You're such a good big brother."

"I know." He gave her that lopsided grin.

Olivia smirked at him. "Anyway, after work, I have to go by my tailor's shop. I have a final fitting for the dress I'm wearing to the mayor's ball, and then I'll head to Great Falls."

Fitz nodded. "What color is the dress?" he asked as he reclined against the mound of pillows with his muscular arms folded behind his head.

"Metallic silver."

"Sounds pretty. Does it have easy access?"

She rolled her eyes. "You'll see on Friday."

Fitz grinned. "Send me pictures."

"What?! No. You can wait until Friday."

"Why do I have to wait?"

"You have to wait because I want to surprise you. So no pictures."

"Livvie, you know I'd much prefer you naked, but okay, I'll wait."

"You can have too much of a good thing, babe," she said.

"With you, never," he replied. Sitting up, he tossed the sheet and duvet aside, and stood from the bed. Olivia's eyes shamelessly admired his body, which was a result of genetics and strenuous workouts. He was truly a work of art with his lean muscled legs, arms and chest that tapered to his ripped, taut abs. Her eyes finally moved down to his long, thick dick. Fitz's eyes followed hers and then he looked up with a smile on his face. She returned his smile, biting her lip. Without a word he walked toward her, still standing in the door of the closet.

"I'll pick you up at noon for lunch," he rasped, moving closer. "Now, we still have time for a shower together."

Olivia's chuckle was cut off when he grabbed her, tossed her over his shoulder, and walked into the bathroom, while she screamed in delight.

"Fitz, please don't make me late for work," she squealed.

He laughed. "You'll be on time, and with a smile on your face."

And he was right. Olivia wore a smile the rest of the day.

TBC