Hey everybody, y'all all right? I know, I know. It's been three weeks since an update but sometimes life gets in the way. In my case, a vacation, which was greatly needed. I'm back now, and well rested. Before I started on this chapter, I re-read your reviews. They always motivate me. I love reading them, so keep them coming. I also love reading and responding to your PMs. They're always funny, and interesting. Someone recently asked which of my stories is my favorite. That's easy: 'Say Yes.' I know many of you don't like it because it isn't Olitz centered, but I think it's some of my best writing. And I just love Elliott and Satchel. Sue me. lol
Well, we're getting close to the end of this story and I must admit, I've enjoyed writing this version of Fitz and Olivia. As always, thank you so much for taking this journey with me, and for leaving thoughtful and encouraging reviews, and sending PMs. You'll never know how much you mean to me. Thank you.
This is another long chapter, but I had so much to say. lol Let me know what you think. Whether you liked it not. Happy reading.
Enjoy,
TBOT
Mask up!
Thursday night football…
Olivia sat with the other ladies, per usual, in the Team's suite for the final game of the Team's regular season. She'd driven Fitz's SUV to the stadium since the two of them, along with a few members of the offense, and their partners, were attending a late dinner in the city after the game. They'd made plans to stay at Olivia's condo since the Team's New Years Eve party was being held at The Four Seasons D.C. the following evening. However, no one was thinking about any of that right now.
The suite was currently quiet. The game had started off tough. Tampa Bay was determined not to go down like Dallas had the previous week. Fitz had thrown two interceptions in the first half and Tampa scored ten points off those turnovers. The Tampa fans in attendance were screaming and cheering loudly because their team was currently up seventeen to three, and they had a chance to take down the mighty Washington team and their "golden boy" quarterback.
Olivia wasn't concerned with the fans because she was too busy watching her man on the field. She'd never seen him that upset, and stood watching as Coach Fauci tried to talk to him, but Fitz just stared straight ahead. Her heart broke and she wanted to go down to the sideline and talk to him. He finally walked over and took a seat on the bench next to Malcolm where they studied images of in-game formations on a Surface tablet, while the defense went to work.
When the offense finally took the field after a defensive stop, Fitz quickly threw two incomplete passes. Something wasn't right.
The clock finally ticked down to halftime and both teams jogged off the field to the locker rooms. Fitz walked alone with a dejected look on his face, and Olivia stared, wishing she could reach out to him, to soothe him. But she couldn't do anything but wait until the second half to begin.
"Fitz needs to get his head in the game," April Ellis, wife of an offensive lineman, said.
Olivia felt Tracee squeeze her hand, while Lauren whispered in her ear. "Don't take the bait."
The suite grew quiet again and Olivia sat wondering how and if she should respond. Did April make the comment thinking that she would agree, or was she making a rhetorical statement? It was the first time a wife or significant other had said something to her about Fitz's play on the field specifically.
In the end, Olivia chose to be diplomatic. "He'll have a stronger second half."
"I sure hope so, or we're going to have some angry men on our hands tonight."
Annoyed with the woman, Olivia was about to confront her but caught Benny's subtle head shake. She couldn't believe she was actually agreeing with Benny Maddox, but she was right. Fitz was the Captain, and she was an extension of him. As much as she wanted to give April Ellis a few choice words, she couldn't.
"Well, football is a team sport so this isn't entirely on Fitz. But they'll turn around it around."
She faked a smile and turned to return to her seat, and got ready for the second half. She also hoped and prayed that Fitz and the Team could mount a comeback.
"Good response, Liv," Chanel said. "Don't allow her to make you step out of character. Even though I know you wanted to rip her a new one."
Olivia nodded. She really did want to give the woman a piece of her mind.
"How about we forget April Ellis and never talk about her again," Lauren added.
"That works for me," Olivia said, chuckling, causing the others to join in.
X
When the Team returned to the field, everyone in the suite, along with thousands of fans, yelled and screamed, hoping that it would energize the team.
Fitz stood on the sideline looking for one person. He only needed to see one face, and he glanced up into the Team's suite where he knew Olivia was watching, wearing another custom Team sweater with his name and number on the back. She was his good luck charm. He spotted her standing looking down at the field at him, like she always was. He blew her a kiss, and she returned it. Fitz Grant was back.
The game resumed and to say that Fitz had a much better second half was an understatement. He threw two touchdown passes to Malcolm, and ran in another one from the two-yard line. The game ended with a score of twenty-four to twenty, Football Team, and Fitz was on cloud nine. Needless to say, Olivia, the other women in the suite, and the Team fans were jumping, hugging and screaming.
As the suite emptied, April approached Olivia, wringing her hands.
"Olivia, may I talk to you for a minute?"
Lauren, Tracee, Chanel and Renee flanked Olivia, ready for whatever.
Olivia nodded while her friends stood staring. "I'll meet you guys downstairs."
"You sure?" Lauren asked.
"I'm sure."
The other ladies slowly walked away, leaving Olivia and April alone.
"What did you want to talk about, April?"
"I'm sorry about earlier. I was out of line. We're all a part of the Team and when one player's having a bad game, the others have to step up. Fitz is the best quarterback in the league. He's also a great Captain and leader. The Team couldn't have gotten this far without him."
Olivia was still irritated with this woman. Her behavior tonight had pissed her off, but she knew what she was dealing with. Some of the Wives, and a few others, were not very supportive of her and Fitz. She'd thought that eventually they would get past the envy and bitterness, but apparently they hadn't. Deciding to take the high road, Olivia summoned her most charming smile. "Thank you, April. Yes, we are all a team…with team rules."
April dropped the phony smile and cleared her throat. She knew exactly what Olivia was talking about.
"You know, don't disrespect any player on the Team, especially in the presence of others. It doesn't matter who you're married to or who you're dating."
The topic of the game was always censored in wives gatherings because, in general, all wives loved to dissect the game with other NFL wives. They were just careful to talk only with wives whose husbands played on the opposite side of the ball or a completely different position. Even then, any conversation that was too close to the other wife's husband's position was strictly avoided for fear of offending others and hurt feelings.
April continued to stare at Olivia with an apologetic look on her face. What could she say? She knew the rule. Olivia was right. "Again, Olivia, I'm sorry."
Olivia nodded. "Okay." Then she turned and gathered her things, and then turned to exit the suite, leaving April standing where she'd left her. Whatever her problem was, she was past caring about what April, Benny or any of the others in the Wives Club thought about her. She already had the man, and she needed to get downstairs to see him.
X
Later…
Most of the offense, which made a sizeable group, was gathered after hours in the dining room of the Capital Grille in D.C. They were all seated along a handful of long, rectangular tables with elegant table settings, a custom menu with world-class wines and a staff who was providing professional service. Seated at the head of one of those tables, beside a window that offered a sweeping view of the U.S. Capital, were Fitz and Olivia.
Glasses were lifted all around the room as Jake offered a few words. "Here's to an amazing season!" he called out and everyone whooped and cheered in response. Fitz touched his glass of sparkling water to Olivia's glass of wine. "Cap, would you like to say a few words?" Jake asked.
"Speech! Speech! Speech! Speech! Speech!"
Fitz stood and the room quieted again.
"I'm not going to take too much of your time. I just want to say that we have worked our asses off and our hard work has paid off."
There were loud cheers around the room again.
"But we still have a lot of work to do to complete this season. We all made a commitment in training camp. We had one mandate…do your job. And we've all done an outstanding job so far. But we still have to finish what we began in training camp."
Heads nodded around the room.
"This is a team mission. It's not just about one person."
"Yeah but you're not our Captain for nothing," Atticus yelled across the room. "And there's no way any of this is possible without you and your leadership."
The room erupted and Fitz smiled.
"I just want to say that I am so very proud of this group of guys. The Team has had high expectations all year, and we've done everything in our power to meet them. We've built something special, and it is an honor and a privilege to be a part of it with all of you." He raised his glass. "To the Team."
"The Team," everybody yelled.
When Fitz finished, he took his seat next to Olivia. She leaned over and kissed his cheek. "And I'm so proud of you, babe. Well, not just you but the entire team." She glanced around the room.
"Thank you, Livvie." He returned her kiss with one of his own. "Have I told you how incredible you look tonight?" he asked, his gaze fixed on her breasts in the fitted Team sweater she wore.
Olivia chuckled and looked around the room to see if anyone noticed him ogling her chest. "Yes you've told me only about ten times," she answered with a wink. "But that's okay. I like to hear it."
"Mm-hmm. Not as much as I like seeing those." He angled his head back to her chest.
Olivia laughed, swatting at his solid chest.
Fitz's face grew serious. "Are you okay?"
Olivia frowned. "I'm great. Why?"
"Sam told me what happened earlier."
When Fitz exited the locker room after completing his interviews, he only had eyes for Olivia. He'd been pulled aside by Sam Ellis, April's husband, who had explained what happened in the suite earlier, and apologized for his wife's behavior in breaking an unwritten Team rule. Do not talk about individual players, or coaches. At NFL wife gatherings, you may express that you're happy to be a part of the team. Nothing more. Fitz couldn't hide his frustration but he also knew Olivia probably handled April, professionally of course.
"What? How did he know?"
"Apparently April sent him a text during the game letting him know what she'd said."
Olivia shook her head. "Fitz it wasn't that serious. She was just frustrated. Hell we all were. But I knew you'd find a way to pull off a win. As for April Ellis, she's not a problem." Unless you consider the fact that she and her friends are envious of our relationship, although they're all married.
"I'm fine. Really."
Fitz stared at her before he spoke. "Okay, I knew you'd taken care of it."
They talked quietly until Lauren seized her attention next to her and the two disappeared into their own conversation, while Fitz turned to Jake, Drew and Victor.
As dinner continued, the conversations flowed. Tomorrow was New Years Eve and the Team's party. Family and friends were invited and Julian and Joey were attending. Olivia had a half day of beauty scheduled for a manicure and pedicure, hair and make-up, while Fitz's only plan was to stay home and watch his alma mater in their bowl game.
Around one in the morning, the group finally dispersed and headed home until they'd see each other again in less than twenty-four hours.
X
New Years Eve…
Olivia stood looking at herself in the floor length mirror in the bedroom of the suite she shared with Fitz at The Four Seasons D.C. The Team's party was being held in one of the ballrooms downstairs and Fitz had suggested they stay overnight. Olivia had agreed.
She completed a three hundred-sixty degree turn, critically looking at herself in the white crystal and bead mini dress with feather hem that stopped above the knee. The dress had a deep v-neck and back, showing plenty of cleavage and the center of her back. She'd purchased the dress on a visit to New York at Joey's insistence. Tonight she was happy she'd listened to her bestie. It was perfect for the occasion. She paired the dress with metallic, plexi see-through strappy Weitzman calf leather wraparound four-inch stiletto sandals. Her hairstylist had styled her hair into an elaborate updo with a high bun. Since the main focus was on her eyes and lips, the make-up artist kept her face neutral. She'd just applied a tinted moisturizer to give her skin a glow, and gave her a metallic smoky eye, complete with doe-eyed lashes and a classic red matte lip. Her look was completed with diamond chandelier earrings and Fitz's bracelet. She was the epitome of modern elegance
Olivia absolutely loved getting dressed up, but she was definitely ready for the holiday season to end. Between work, the Wives Club and Team activities, she was exhausted. She gave herself a final once-over in the mirror. Pleased with how she looked, she picked up her clutch from the bed and walked to the suite's living room where Fitz sat waiting.
X
Fitz heard Olivia's heels on the parquet floor and stood from the sofa. He whistled and then grinned at his girlfriend. "I hope I won't have to knock some heads together tonight, Livvie. You are stunning."
Olivia smiled and admired her man. He looked incredibly handsome in his suit. "Thank you, babe." She walked over to him. Tossing her clutch on the sofa, she reached out and straightened his tie. "So you're a renegade tonight, huh?"
Fitz grinned. "I really didn't want to wear a tux. I'm all tuxedoed out. Besides I think I look just fine."
"Now that we agree on." Olivia winked at Fitz and he chuckled. He'd decided to forego a tuxedo and was looking as sexy as ever in a custom RL Purple Label three piece suit in charcoal pinstripe. The white shirt and black and white polka dot tie were also RL Purple Label. He'd paired the suit with a white pocket square, and black Oxford shoes. A quick visit to the barber earlier that day had gotten him a precision trim on his mustache and beard, as well as the haircut he desired. How was it possible for him to be any sexier?
"You smell delicious." He attempted to kiss her, but she ducked and continued fixing the Windsor knot on his tie. "We don't have time for that, mister."
He placed his hands on her waist after she finished. "You are beautiful, Olivia Pope. We have a lot to celebrate tonight." He cupped her ass as he bent to kiss her deeply. She reached up and wiped her lipstick from his lips with the pad of her thumb.
"I love this dress. Maybe better than the one you wore to the Mayor's Ball. And you know how I couldn't keep my hands off you that night." His wandering hand eased under her dress and he grinned at her when he squeezed a bare butt cheek, grateful she was wearing a thong.
As Olivia looked up into Fitz's eyes, she could see how much he wanted her. Unfortunately, they needed to leave.
"Fitz we don't have time, and I'm not mussing my hair or my make-up."
He pulled her closer. "Come on, Livvie."
"Fitz," she said in a whiny voice. "We don't have time." Although she wanted nothing more than to strip and let him have his way with her body. It had been almost two weeks since they'd made love.
"Please, Livvie. I'm already hard, so it won't take long."
She shook her head. "No."
He leaned down and kissed her exposed cleavage. "They…won't…miss us. Relax."
"Fitz, Joey texted me fifteen minutes ago. She and J are waiting for us downstairs."
He sighed and lowered his forehead to hers. "Okay, but at one minute past midnight, we'll be back in this room and in that bed," he said nodding toward the bedroom.
Olivia smiled. "You won't get any argument from me, babe." Her body wanted to give him anything he wanted. She stepped out of his arms, reached for her clutch and walked to the mirror in the foyer. "I'm going to repair my lipstick while you take care of that." She looked at his crotch and back up to his face, with a lifted brow.
Fitz looked down and laughed before heading to the bedroom to take care of his, uh, problem.
X
Twenty minutes later, Fitz and Olivia walked into the lavishly decorated ballroom. It looked like something from the cover of an upscale magazine, and it was absolutely gorgeous. The room was packed since family and friends were also in attendance. There were people on the dance floor, and standing at the bars and food stations set up around the room.
Olivia and Fitz made a beautiful and powerful couple, and everyone paid attention when they arrived. He held her hand as they made their way around the room, greeting his teammates, their wives and significant others, exchanging a few words with each. He led her over to the team owner's table and they greeted him, along with various members of management, coaches and their families. Olivia was fond of most of them because they'd all been nothing but cordial and kind to her.
Olivia glanced around looking for Joey and Julian and finally found them on the crowded dance floor dancing to the music provided by the band. She chuckled. In all her thirty years, she didn't know her brother could dance. But since he'd fallen in love with Joey, he'd mellowed. Her bestie was the best thing to ever happen to her brother.
Since the party was opened to friends and family, there were quite a few unfamiliar faces and even more single women in attendance. Olivia shook her head. Some women would do anything to land a rich football player. Sure, there were those who thought the same about her and it was farthest from the truth. She hadn't want to date Fitz because he was a professional athlete. It took a lot of time and effort to date a celebrity, but her man was worth it. Never in all her life did she think she would find a man like Fitzgerald Grant.
X
As Fitz led Olivia to their table, they heard a familiar voice. "Hey, Cap." They both turned to see Malcolm, smiling, along with his date, and an older couple, probably his parents. He'd kept a very low profile since the "incident." The young woman had attended the last three home games as his guest. Olivia had met her in the suite and learned that her name was Chloe and she was a dental student at Howard Dental School. Malcolm had been seeing her regularly and Olivia liked the young woman. She was definitely different from the groupies that he normally invited to the games. They'd attended the post game dinner the previous evening, and the Team holiday dinner together. He seemed more grounded, relaxed and laid back with her around.
Fitz and Olivia waved at Malcolm and his guests before turning around. He pulled out Olivia's chair and seated her, before taking a seat next to her.
Olivia sat perusing the crowd, watching members of the Team and management. They'd slowly become like family. She'd known them all for eight months and had gotten to know many of them personally. Everyone was always pleasant, whether they were sincere or not. Even Benny was less annoying, sometimes. Honestly, she didn't really bother her much as she had in the beginning. Olivia watched her work the room in her usual flirtatious manner. This was what she lived for, she was in her element.
When Joey and Julian returned to their table they were surprised to see Olivia and Fitz.
"Hey guys," Olivia said before her and Fitz stood to greet her best friend and her brother.
Joey grabbed Olivia's hands and spread her arms wide. She looked up and down with a huge grin on her face. "Girl you are wearing this dress! It's the Tadashi, right?"
Olivia nodded. "Yes, from New York. But look at you, Jo." She looked at her bestie in a tailored tuxedo wrap mini dress in black. The length of the dress hit mid thigh and made her already long legs go on forever, and showed off her toned physique. "You are hot!"
They laughed and hugged each other while their men looked on in amusement.
"How long have you guys been here?" Julian asked.
"About twenty minutes."
Fitz leaned over and gave Joey a kiss and a hug, while Julian did the same to his sister.
"Can I get anyone anything to drink?" Fitz asked.
"Just water right now, babe."
"Anyone else?"
"Water," Joey answered.
"Come on, I'll go with you Fitz," Julian said and the two men walked away to the nearest bar.
X
Later…
Fitz had wandered off to speak with his teammates, while Olivia sat with a few of the Wives Club members drinking champagne, and Joey and Julian sat talking to the Team's general manager. Julian had gotten to know the front office well since he spent a lot of time in the Team owner's suite. Of course because his sister was dating the quarterback, he never tried to court any of them to become clients of Pope and Pope.
The party was now packed and everyone was eating, drinking and just having a good time. It wasn't so crowded that Olivia missed seeing Dana Rogers flirting with one of the guys from Team management. Shaking her head, she turned and rejoined the conversation at the table.
Later, Olivia and the ladies were standing near the dance floor talking with general manager's wife when Ty grabbed her hand and pulled her onto the floor. He looked handsome in a fitted black suit that complimented his body.
"I've been looking all around for my dance partner."
Olivia laughed. Ty had kept her on the dance floor at the Team's holiday dinner party, and they'd had a great time. He was actually light on his feet. Fitz had joked that he needed to find his own lady and leave his alone. Olivia reminded him that he'd also threatened anyone on the team who even looked at his sister.
"My sister isn't the only woman he can date," he'd responded testily.
Ty was more like a little brother and was fun to be around.
"I've seen you three times in one week. I'm a lucky guy."
Olivia smiled at him. He was so cute. Fitz said he had a crush on Olivia, but she just didn't see it.
"Well it's good to see you again, Ty."
"I would've given you a hug but my Captain…" Ty nodded his head in Fitz's direction. He was currently standing with the Team's Offensive Coordinator, half-listening to whatever he was saying, and watching Olivia and Ty.
"Has he been giving you a hard time?" she asked, concerned.
Ty chuckled. "You know it. But it just makes me work harder. I'm not afraid of Cap," he grinned.
"I'm sorry, Ty."
"No need. He's just protective of you and T. I'm the same way. He's a beast most days, but after last night and tonight, he's going to up the ante making me, well all of us, work three times harder."
They both laughed. After one more song, Olivia put up her hand to let Ty know that she needed a minute. He nodded and escorted her to the edge of the dance floor where Fitz stood waiting with his solid arms crossed at his chest.
"Get your own girlfriend, Henry," Fitz said, with a hard look on his face as they approached him.
Olivia rolled her eyes while Fitz and Ty smirked at each other. Ty pulled her closer and Fitz's face broke into a huge grin. He reached out and pulled Olivia into his arms.
"Seriously, Livvie, why do you like dancing with this clown?"
"Because you can't," Ty said with a blank look on his face.
Fitz let go of Olivia to playfully punch Ty in his arm, and the two men began to play fight like brothers, drawing the attention of those around them. Olivia was happy that Fitz could joke with the young man, and shook her head at them both.
"Thanks for the dance, Olivia," Ty said. "I'll see you two later." He walked away and got lost in the crowd.
Fitz took Olivia's hand and walked her to a dark corner. Pulling her into his arms, he whispered near her ear. "You are by far the sexiest woman in this room and I can't stop staring at you. Let's leave this party and go back upstairs."
She leaned back in his arms and looked into his handsome face. "Fitz we can't leave yet, it's not even midnight. Plus, I told the ladies that we weren't leaving early tonight."
He pulled her back against his body so she could feel his rock hard inches. "Livvie, I don't care. This dress is killing me."
Olivia gave him a sexy smile. The music was loud, and everyone was dancing around them. She turned and discretely began to grind her ass against him teasingly. Lifting his arm, she looked at his watch. "It's only about an hour until midnight. You can wait." The feel of his hard body against hers almost made her forget that they were in a room filled with the entire Football Team, management and their guests.
Slowly, Fitz turned Olivia around to face him again and began to dance with her. "Well, I guess we can stay until midnight, but then Miss Pope, you are all mine."
Olivia looked at him. "Fitz…"
He placed a thick finger against her lips. "All mine," he repeated, right before he kissed her.
X
At almost midnight, the wait staff began passing out glasses of champagne to the party guests. Fitz had grabbed a bottle and two glasses, and led Olivia out on the terrace of the ballroom. He expertly popped the cork and poured them both a half glass and offered her one, which she took with thanks, and he the other. Then he set the bottle on a table and took a seat, pulling Olivia onto his lap. Less than a minute later, the countdown began. At the stroke of midnight, Fitz turned Olivia in his arms and kissed her with a passion for the new life they were going to share in the new year, and the future they would create together.
As the band played Auld Lang Syne, and the partygoers sang loudly, Fitz leaned down and whispered. "You are mine forever and always, Livvie. I love you."
Olivia's lip began to tremble and tears welled up in her eyes, and she didn't know why.
"I love you, too."
"Happy New Year, Counselor."
"Happy New Year, Football star."
Fitz grinned before lowering his face to hers until he met her lips, kissing her in a deep, provocative kiss that held the promise of more to come. They continued, oblivious to the people around them, until the boom from the fireworks startled them apart. They were soon joined by several other partygoers jockeying for space to see the fireworks display.
"Get a room already!" Ty shouted.
Everyone laughed.
Sighing, Fitz helped Olivia stand and then stood next to her.
"Let's go." Taking her hand, he led her away from the crowd and into the ballroom toward an exit.
"Fitz we really should say goodbye to everyone."
He remained silent and never stopped walking as they made their way into the crowded lobby and to the private elevator, without anyone noticing. Almost.
"You think my mother will be planning another wedding soon?" Julian asked as he watched his sister and her boyfriend try to sneak away from the party.
"I wouldn't be surprised if it happened sooner rather than later. But we both know Liv's going to fight Maya at every turn, and end up eloping."
Julian laughed and nodded. "I think you're right." The couple then turned to join the other revelers, cranking the party up a notch.
X
"Mr. Grant, can I have your autograph? It's for my son," a member of hotel security asked, a sheepish look on his face.
"Sure." Fitz smiled and took the pen and trading card.
The man looked at Olivia. "It really is for my son. He loves the Football Team and the Golden Arm."
Fitz chuckled, handing the card and pen back to him. "Happy New Year," he said before lifting Olivia over his shoulder and stepping onto the elevator.
"Fitz!" she squealed. No matter how many times he did this, it was always a surprise. She giggled as the door closed.
Fitz kept her that way until the doors opened to their suite, and carried her through the living room and into the bedroom before setting her on her feet. He stood in the doorway, leaning against the door jamb with his arms folded across his chest, and one foot crossed over the other. All Olivia could think was just how sexy her man was. His coral blue, hooded eyes stared at her from head to toe. She also knew that he was thoroughly aroused just looking at her.
Fitz tried to control the lust he was feeling for his sexy, doe eyed beauty. The woman he loved with his entire being. Both were keenly aware that it had been two weeks since they'd been intimate.
"Alright, Mr. Grant, now that you've shown my ass to several guests in the lobby of this fine establishment, what are you going to do with me?"
Fitz gave her that lopsided grin. Olivia smiled back.
"It's been two weeks, Livvie, and I want to bury myself between your beautiful thighs, and forget all sense of time and space."
His words caused goosebumps to pop up on her skin.
"Really?"
Fitz nodded, pushed away from the door and slowly walked toward her. "Oh yes Miss Pope. I love this dress on you. Every man at the party was looking at you, and I was proud because you are mine. But as much as I love the dress, I think you better remove it because I won't be responsible for what happens to it."
"You wouldn't dare ruin my dress."
Fitz shrugged. "Take off your clothes."
Olivia took a step back and threw up her hands. "Fitz, now…"
"Livvie…"
"Fitz…" She turned to make a getaway but before she could take one step, Fitz had lifted her in one arm while the other reached for the zipper under her arm. His teeth nipped at her neck causing her to drench her thong.
Olivia moaned and angled her head, giving him better access. Slowly, Fitz lowered her to her feet and helped her step out of the dress, leaving her in a tiny white lace thong, and four and a half inch heels.
"No tape?"
She shook her head. "I didn't want to waste time."
"Well this might be quick."
"Quick has never been an issue with us," she reminded him, licking her lips.
Fitz smiled. "True, but it has been a while."
Lifting her into his arms again he carried her to the bed and laid her down, and then stood again. He removed his tie from his neck, unbuttoned his waistcoat and then his shirt, before slipping them both from his broad shoulders, letting them fall to the floor.
Olivia's gaze zeroed in on his muscled chest. She was so lost in her own desire that she barely noticed that he'd unbuttoned and unzipped his pants until they fell to his feet. She glanced down and smiled when she saw him push his black boxer briefs down his legs and step out of them. He sprang free, all long, thick and hard. And when their gazes met, she knew instinctively what he wanted.
His eyes locked with hers as he slowly crawled on the bed toward her. He placed a kiss on her flat belly and her breath hitched.
"You are my world," Fitz said as he hovered over her. Olivia melted at the sound of his deep, sexy voice. His hands reached out to her breasts and squeezed gently. "Always sexy."
"Fitz."
"Don't move," he whispered. His hand inched down and when he reached the tiny scrap of fabric that was her thong, he gripped the thin material and ripped it off, tossing it over his shoulder. He wasted no time pushing a finger inside her wet folds, causing her to moan again.
"Do you like how that feels, Livvie?" he murmured.
"Yes, yes," she moaned.
Fitz looked down into her beautiful face. "I can't wait to be inside you."
Before Olivia could register what he said, he was positioning his large head at her wet entrance and pushing inside her to the hilt. She took all of him, meeting his forceful thrusts.
"Yes, Livvie, hot and wet like I want." Her legs wrapped tightly around his waist pulling him deeper and heels dug into his tight ass. His thrusts became harder as her moans grew louder. "That's it Livvie, take what's yours."
Olivia moved her hands to his head and pulled him toward her before crushing her mouth to his.
Fitz pulled back and put her legs over his shoulders, thrusting as deep as he could until she screamed in pleasure digging her nails in forearms. Her walls tightened, gripping him like a vise, and he had to stop for a second to compose himself. Pulling out, he thrust back inside her again as she moaned louder. She panted when he picked up the pace, clenching around him tighter as he pounded her. Her back arched as she screamed Fitz's name and shattered in his arms. Her orgasm ripped through her with such force Fitz could no longer hold on. A few more thrusts and he was groaning Olivia's name into her neck before spilling his seed inside her.
They lay for a while, spent, silent. She reached out and traced his eyebrows and mustache, and he rose up on his elbows and kissed her deeply.
"I love you, Livvie." Slowly he pulled out and rolled over onto his back with her wrapped in his arms.
"Are you okay?" He whispered as he kissed her neck.
Olivia nodded. "I love you. This is going to be the best year yet."
He nodded and kissed her forehead, knowing this was the only woman he'd ever spent the New Year with and she was his forever.
X
A few hours into the new year…
The couple took advantage of suite's large bathtub and relaxed in a warm bath together. Fitz had ran a hot bath and then returned to the bedroom and lifted Olivia in his arms. He placed her exhausted body in the heated water and then joined her. The bathtub was large enough to accommodate his large body as well as hers. She sat between his legs with her back to his broad chest.
They enjoyed the warm water together before Fitz grabbed a soft wash cloth, wet it and squeezed a small amount of shea butter and honey body wash onto it. He then rubbed it gently all over her body. All Olivia could think about was the beast pressed against her back, and that was not where she wanted it. She allowed Fitz to pamper her because she loved this man and this was what he wanted to do for her. She lay back on his chest as he squeezed more gel on the washcloth and caressed her front, dropping it as his hands lowered into the water. She felt his hands stroke between her legs, and sighed as he worked his skilled fingers.
Olivia reached back and wrapped an arm around his neck, turning her face to his. She kissed him as his fingers pushed inside her and the other stroked her breast. Finally, unable to take anymore, she rose to her knees and turned to face him, deepening the kiss, and straddled his thick thighs.
"I want you," she whispered. She positioned herself over his stiff dick, and they both inhaled as her body slowly sank down on him.
"Baby," he groaned. "You are so hot and tight."
"And you are so hard," she murmured against his lips as she took every inch of him deep inside until he was buried balls deep.
Up and down she moved, grinding her clit against his groin. Fitz reached between them and started stroking her clit. Olivia bucked, her scream of pleasure echoed throughout the bathroom, her inner muscles clenching his dick and making him moan. Faster she rode him and harder he thrust upward while still massaging her clit and tonguing her nipples as well.
Abruptly she threw her head back and screamed, her core gripping him and pulsing so intensely he thrust deeper and came inside her in long spasms that lasted and lasted until she went limp against him and lay against his chest.
Gasping for breath, he lazily stroked her back while her head was buried between his neck and shoulder.
"Are you okay, Livvie?" he asked softly.
"Mm-hmm," she said, barely nodding her head but not moving.
"Come on, let's shower and go to bed."
Olivia nodded again as Fitz helped her stand and then stepped out of the bathtub. Together they walked into the oversized shower, which led to another round with Olivia's hands braced against the shower wall to steady herself while Fitz entered her in one long stoke. He held her against the cool tile, gripped her hips in his strong hands started driving into her. She was on the verge of another orgasm almost immediately. He pounded inside her until she convulsed in a blinding climax and screamed his name. Her knees buckled and had Fitz not tightened his grip on her waist, she would have slid to the floor.
Fitz went rigid, then shuddered uncontrollably, yelling out her name as he came again. He placed one hand on the wall above her head and continued to hold her. He pulled out, turned her in his arms and kissed her tenderly.
"We'd better wash up for real this time." They washed each other, dried off and put on the robes provided by the hotel.
Olivia finally removed her make-up and cleansed her face, before removing the hairpins from her hair and pulling it into a long, damp ponytail, and brushed her teeth. When she finally joined Fitz in the bedroom, he was lying in bed waiting for her. Throwing back the duvet he grinned at her.
"Come on, Livvie."
She returned his smile and removed the robe. Naked as he, she climbed into bed and into his arms. He kissed her damp hair and squeezed her closer.
"This was the best New Years I've ever had," he said kissing her hair again.
Olivia chuckled softly. "I've heard of a kiss at the stroke of midnight on New Years, but never an actual stroke."
Fitz's laugh was loud and filled the quiet room. "You didn't know about that?"
Olivia shook her head, too exhausted after the passionate and explosive sex they'd just had in the bathtub and the shower.
"Well I just realized there's nothing better than you riding the hell out of me on New Years," he said. "So that's our new tradition."
Olivia looked up Fitz with a lazy smile on her face. "Well, I guess we have a new tradition."
"I guess so." Fitz reached for the bedside lamp and turned it off, while Olivia snuggled closer to him and murmured drowsily but didn't open her eyes. Fitz chuckled. They'd both had a long day and he knew she exhausted.
"Goodnight, my love," he whispered. The past nine months with Olivia Pope had become a time that he would remember forever. She was the love of his life and he couldn't wait to see what the next fifty years would bring. Closing his eyes, he allowed himself to drift off to sleep.
X
Fitz and Olivia spent the next forty hours together holed up in their suite at The Four Seasons making love, ordering room service and getting luxury massages. And it was the most beautiful forty hours ever. They'd both turned off their phones so they wouldn't be disturbed. Joey knew how to reach Olivia in case of an emergency, and Fitz's agent knew where he was. So far things were quiet.
X
Late Sunday morning…
"Fitz…babe, please!" Olivia begged. Her man had been insatiable since New Years Day and they'd had sex on almost every surface in the suite. Fitz was definitely going to need to leave a large tip, and the suite was going to need a deep cleaning.
"Fitz," she whined. "We were awake before the sun rose." It was now after eleven and they were still in bed, naked. "My kitty is tender babe."
Fitz chuckled and moved up the length of her body, until he straddled her. Braced on his elbows, he smiled down at her.
"Well let me kiss her again and make her feel better."
Olivia let out a raucous laugh and pushed at his solid chest. "Move!" she said, still laughing. "The last time you said you were going to kiss her and make her better, we ended up against the living room window with my legs wrapped around your waist. Thank God that glass was strong enough to handle our, uh, fervent workout." She raised a brow while looking at him.
Olivia was sore from Fitz's unrelenting, powerful lovemaking in every possible position and the multiple orgasms. She'd ridden him on the sofa in the suite's living room, and he'd had her for a post-breakfast meal that morning before flipping her over on all fours and entering her, giving her every long, thick inch of him. Her nipples puckered at the memory of the attention they'd received from his mouth and lips. There was also the bruising around her areolas and brush burns from his beard and mustache between her thighs.
Fitz was always insatiable and freaky after a Team win, but last night and this morning was on another level. He'd left his mark on other hidden parts of her body. She'd been thoroughly sexed and wasn't sure if she'd be able to walk.
Fitz laughed and kissed her softly.
"Babe, she's tender." She hated to sound whiny, but she had to make her point.
Silently he kissed her collarbone and then her lips again and stood from the bed. "I'm going to let you and your kitty rest for now, but you better talk to her and be prepared for tonight."
Olivia rolled her eyes and laughed, and stared at Fitz's taunt ass as he headed to the bathroom. She flopped back against the pillows as a huge smiled covered her face. Oh how she loved that man! He was a good man. A man she deserved, a love she deserved. She lay listening to the shower wanting to join him but knowing it wasn't a good idea.
The ringing of her phone on the night table startled her. She'd forgotten that she'd turned it on. Picking it up, she glanced at the screen and smiled. "Hello, Josephine," she answered in a sing song voice, her happiness radiating in her voice.
"Hey, Liv. Are you and Fitz still camped out at The Four Seasons?"
"Yep. We're checking out in a couple of hours. I have to get dressed for Sunday dinner. You and J will be sorely missed."
Olivia knew that her mother would notice that she couldn't walk properly, that her face was flushed and the permanent smile on her face, but she didn't care. One look and Maya Pope would definitely know what they'd been doing over the last forty plus hours, and she wouldn't have Joey there as a buffer. It was still worth it though.
"Girl I would much rather spend a few hours with Maya Pope than one of Julian's clients. But it's what I signed up for when I said 'yes' to being his wife."
"That's what relationships are about. Give and take, fifty-fifty. Though it's not always even. You know how I felt about the Wives Club, but I did it for Fitz."
"I know. And I'm not really complaining. I'm still angry with you for leaving the New Years Eve party early," Joey said changing the subject, and laughing.
"No you're not," Olivia responded laughing along with Joey. "I heard from a very reliable source that you and my brother closed down the party. You were not missing me at all."
They both laughed.
"Lauren?" Joey asked.
"Who else? She sent me a text to let me know that you all had a great time and that everyone got home safely."
Olivia looked up when the bathroom door opened and Fitz walked out followed by a thick cloud of steam. He had a towel wrapped low around his waist, and Olivia was no longer listening to Joey. Giving her that lopsided grin, he walked over and crawled toward her on the bed while his hands began to roam her body.
"Um, Jo, could you hold please?" Olivia said just before his mouth covered her in a deep kiss while his arms wrapped around her waist, forcing her back to arch from the way he leaned over her.
"I missed you in the shower."
"Clearly," she murmured against his lips.
Joey's voice filtered through the phone. "Fitz. I was trying to talk to my bestie who's been MIA!" Joey yelled once Olivia had the phone to her ear again. Since Fitz was still near, he was privy to Joey's little rant and chuckled before acknowledging her.
"Well hurry up because I'm trying to have a heart-to-heart with her too. And I would prefer it to happen without you on the phone listening."
Olivia's eyes widened and her mouth snapped open. Fitz winked and kissed her again before moving off the bed. She watched him slowly walk away flexing his broad shoulders and muscled legs. And damn if it wasn't a display of sexiness. It was also so ordinary, it shouldn't have been erotic.
Olivia licked her lips. "Um, Jo, I have to go."
"Mm-hmm, I don't blame you," Joey chuckled. "Why would you want to talk to me when you have a better option? Go be with your man."
"Yep. Goodbye and we'll talk tomorrow."
"But I…"
"No, you have your own man. Go check on him. Bye."
Olivia ended the call and giggled before tossing the phone across the bed.
After a few minutes, she stood from the bed and walked toward the bathroom. Her body cursed her with every step she made. Each step was a reminder of how Fitz had handled and tended to every want and need. She shivered from the memory of his tongue, his hands and…his dick.
She found Fitz standing in front of the mirror, completely nude, trimming his already neat beard. She stared at his magnificent physique, before walking up behind him and wrapping her arms around his waist, pressing her naked body against his, and kissing the muscles across his back.
"You smell good, babe," she whispered.
"Thank you." He leaned back into her, loving the feel of her lips on him.
She eyed that part of him in the mirror that had given her so much pleasure, and had her walking gingerly. Even semi-erect, it fell almost mid-thigh. Dragging her eyes away from his dick, she looked at his face and their eyes met. He grinned and then returned to his grooming.
Olivia finally released him and walked into the shower stall. She turned on the multiple shower heads, and stepped under them, closing her eyes and enjoying the steady flow of water soothing her tired and sore body. Suddenly, the shower door opened, and Fitz stepped in and closed it behind him.
Olivia whirled around with a startled look on her face. "Fitz!" she screamed. "What are you doing? You've already taken a shower."
He shrugged. "What does it look like I'm doing?" he said lowly. "I want you, but I know you said your kitty was too sore." He pressed against her back, allowing her to feel the evidence of how much he wanted her. Stepping back, Fitz looked her up and down as the water ran over her tight body. He then turned her around and kissed her passionately while kneading her breasts with both hands.
Kneeling in front of her, he placed her leg over his broad shoulder. Before she knew it, Fitz had spread her legs wider, and had his tongue on her clit, using his super powers. Olivia closed her eyes and moaned as he focused on the task at hand. Relaxing, she allowed him to pleasure her while also wondering how she'd gotten so lucky, as he brought her closer to another orgasm.
After her second orgasm, Olivia was begging Fitz to make love to her.
"Livvie I thought you were too sore," he said with concern.
She shook her head. "No…no, I'm never too sore for you."
Fitz took Olivia's nipple between his lips while his hand moved down her body and stroked her clit. She opened her legs, wanting him again, because she was ready to explode.
"Please, Fitz. I want you. Now!"
"And you're going to get me…now."
Fitz lifted her into his arms and pushed himself deep within her. Olivia clutched his back and wrapped her legs around him as her eyes rolled back as he entered her with his rock hard dick.
"Yes!" she rasped against his neck.
This time he didn't bother to begin slow and build, he pumped into her at break neck speed, and Olivia held on for dear life. Slowly she began to pulsate around him right before her body reached its climax. At last her body quivered and quaked and she collapsed against Fitz's chest while he finished his frantic thrusting with a roar and let out a final groan, and then relaxed. He kissed her lightly on her lips and chin.
"I think we both need to get cleaned now."
"I guess so," Olivia said, leaning her forehead against his.
Finally, he lowered her to her feet.
"I'm seriously considering skipping Sunday dinner with my parents so we can spend the day in bed doing that."
Fitz grinned tiredly. "There's more of that…later."
She couldn't wait.
X
Sunday dinner…
Fitz and Eli Pope sat in the older man's den sipping snifters of aged bourbon. Only for Olivia's father would he imbibe hard alcohol during the season. Dinner with the Pope's had been a lively affair as usual, with everyone talking and laughing between bites. The change of topics kept the conversation going. Olivia's heart filled when her parents expressed concern about Fitz's health going into the playoffs. He assured them both that other than a few aches and pains, he'd been surprisingly injury free this season. His offensive line was doing a fantastic job, and he would owe them big time when the season was over. After coffee and dessert, Eli excused him and Fitz to his man cave, while Maya and Olivia went somewhere else in the house.
Fitz had watched as Eli carefully removed the plug from the bottle and waved it around.
"Smell that," he said. The aroma of the fourteen year old bourbon filled the room. He then poured two snifters, adding sparkling water to Fitz's before handing it to him. Taking a sip, he closed his eyes as if in prayer. "That," he said reverently, "is good bourbon."
Fitz nodded. "Cheers," he said and tipped his snifter to his lips and took a drink.
Eli smiled. "I hope we'll have something to celebrate in a few weeks."
"Well, now that you mentioned it, there is something I'd like to talk to you about."
Eli drank most of his bourbon, and Fitz did the same. They set their glasses down and stared at each other.
"Speak your mind, son," Eli said.
Fitz was suddenly beginning to feel nervous. Was this the right time? Then he thought, fuck it, just go ahead and say it.
"I'm going to ask Olivia to be my wife. I know it's old-fashioned, but I wanted to get your blessing first."
Eli continued to smile. Then he chuckled. Then his chuckle turned into a full-bodied laugh.
Fitz was confused. "Eli?"
Eli composed himself before responding. "Fitz I appreciate you coming to me and asking for my daughter's hand in marriage. That is the man you are."
"But…"
"Olivia would be mad as hell about this."
Fitz relaxed and nodded, joining Eli in the laughter.
"I know she would, but I still wanted to ask. It's just a sign of respect."
"Well you already have that, and I trust my baby girl's judgment. She loves you, and I can see that you love her very much. Over the past few months, my wife and I have come to love and respect you as well. After that disaster of a relationship with Gregory Hill, I didn't think Olivia would ever open her heart to a man again. But you came along and showed her the man you are, and what's in your heart. You are nothing like him. Thank God."
Eli saw the look of shock on Fitz's face and continued. "Oh I know what the bastard did to my baby girl."
"How?"
Eli picked up his snifter and took a sip before answering. "Joey. She knew that there was no way in hell that I would ever help or support him again if I knew the truth about what really happened in that relationship, and she was absolutely correct. The only reason I didn't break any of his bones is because I knew Olivia would be angry and afraid that I would lose everything, and he is not worth it. He hurt my baby, and I still don't like it, but he's in for a big surprise when he officially announces his run for Senate."
Fitz's admiration for Eli Pope grew. "Well it looks as if we're both on the same page when it comes to that guy."
"Fitz, the hardest thing that you will experience as a parent is watching someone hurt your children and there's nothing you can do about it."
Fitz nodded at the man he hoped to someday call his father-in-law.
"I saw the looks you were giving him at the Mayor's Ball, and I knew then that you knew what he did. You love my daughter and will protect her with everything in you. Like me, you will always do what is necessary to keep her safe, and you will put her first, make her a priority."
"Absolutely. I want marriage and children. I want a family. And I want all of that with Olivia. She is the love of my life."
"How's that going to work with both your careers?"
"Olivia can have her career and us, just like I can have us and football. She won't have to give up anything to be Mrs. Fitzgerald Grant, III."
Eli nodded. "Son, I am an observant man. My daughter hasn't been happy for a long time because of that asshole, but when I look at her now, it fills my heart with joy to see how she's found true happiness, and I know she found that with you. It would be my honor to walk her down the aisle…to you. Just remember, she's my most precious gift."
Fitz understood exactly what Eli Pope meant. "I hope one day Olivia and I will have a daughter and the man in her life respects me enough to come to me and ask for her hand." He chuckled. "I'm not so sure I'll be able to let her go, but I know I won't have a choice."
Eli laughed. "Welcome to my world."
Fitz joined him.
"So when are you planning to propose?"
"I'm not sure, but the ring has been ordered."
"So it's a secret? And you trust me keep it from my baby girl?"
Fitz nodded. "I do. But I don't know if I trust Mrs. Pope, though."
"Smart man."
Both men laughed again.
X
A few days later, Great Falls…
Fitz and Dre were in Fitz's game room playing pool. Dre had stopped by the Team's training facility and Fitz had invited him to dinner. Bert had prepared the meal for he and Olivia, but Olivia had called to cancel and inform him that she wasn't feeling well. She was staying in D.C. and had an appointment with her doctor the following morning. Of course Fitz had wanted to join her but since she wasn't sure if whatever she had was contagious, she thought it best that he stay away. There was absolutely no way she was going to be blamed if the Team's star quarterback became ill before the beginning of the playoffs, and everyone would blame her.
So here he was, entertaining his friend. They'd decided to play a few games of pool after dinner.
"I noticed at practice today the receivers are doing a better job of shifting to their stronger sides and your aim is spot on," Dre said as he chalked his cue.
"Yeah. We've pretty much perfected it over the regular season. How did you know?" Fitz continued to rack the balls. "It's obvious with the routes they're running that you've learned their strengths and weaknesses and you're playing to them."
Fitz nodded. "Well I've avoided the weak areas and it's helped us clinch our division, earn a first round bye and home field throughout the playoffs."
Dre offered his fist to Fitz for a pound, and he obliged.
"You're my guest, you break."
"No problem. Sometimes the one who breaks runs the table," Dre said laughing, before moving to the head of the table while Fitz removed the rack.
"How are Jada and India?"
Dre hit the cue ball and broke, sinking a few balls before answering Fitz's question. "Both my ladies are happy. India's a daddy's girl and it pisses Jada off," he said with a chuckle. "I love it! It's hard for me not to kiss her, or to put her down. She's spoiled rotten and it's all my fault."
Fitz laughed at his friend. Dre had come a long way since the first time he'd met him, and he knew it was because of his wife.
Jada was a physical therapist and had helped Dre put his body back together after playing football for so many years. He was smitten the moment he walked into her office. He'd given her his perfect smile and best lines; she'd politely thanked him for the compliment and got back to business. He'd then asked her out on a date, but she turned him down.
After seeing the dejected look on his face, she took pity on him and explained her position. Because she'd worked with a few other players on the Team, she was privy to too much inside information about the lifestyles of players. Too much drama. He'd been slightly embarrassed when she told him stories she'd heard about him…all of them true. She had no interest in getting involved with Andre Cruz.
It took a while but Dre took her rejection as a challenge, and showed her what a sincere guy he'd become over the years. After a year of flowers and therapy visits he didn't need, she finally agreed to a date. It was four more years before she agreed to marry him. As Fitz stood beside him as best man, he had never seen his friend so happy.
And now here he was, a changed man.
"I mean, my wife and baby girl have changed my life. India has me wrapped around her little fingers…so does her mother."
Fitz laughed again.
"You laugh now, Grant. Just wait. Olivia already has your nose wide open."
"I'm handling Olivia." He thought for a second. "Or maybe she's handling me."
They both laughed but Fitz didn't care, and he wasn't ashamed one bit. Dre grew serious again.
"I don't know what I'm going to do because the moment someone's son looks at my princess, it's over."
Fitz laughed again. He'd known Dre long enough to remember his hedonistic antics with women. Over the years he'd matured and was now a dedicated husband and father.
Dre gave Fitz his middle finger. "Wait until it's your turn, man."
Fitz shook his head. "Fortunately we both have a long time before we have to think about any of that." He called and took his shot, sending his ball into the corner pocket.
"How are things coming along with you and Olivia?"
"We're great, man," Fitz answered, sharing a few details and bringing his friend up to speed.
"I'll accept my 'thank you' now."
"For what?"
"For calling you out on your bullshit and helping you realize that you were letting a good woman walk away. I made you think long and hard about what you would be losing, before you got your shit together. So show some appreciation for your boy, Dre Cruz."
Fitz chuckled and bowed at the waist. "Thank you, oh wise one, from the bottom of my heart for making me see the error of my ways, and for helping me get my woman back." He looked at Dre. "How was that?"
Dre gave him his middle finger again and they both broke out into loud laughter. When they recovered, Fitz continued.
"It's done, Dre." He looked at his friend.
Dre swallowed his beer and frowned. "What's done?"
"The ring has been designed and ordered."
"Are you serious?"
Fitz nodded, unable to stop the huge grin from spreading across his face. "Yep. It's almost finished. I'm still not sure when or where I'm going to propose, but the knee is bending."
"Aw man, congratulations." He extended an arm and the two men bumped shoulders in that one-armed man hug that men did. He was genuinely happy for his friend. "Welcome to the club."
"Thank you. But don't celebrate until she says 'yes.' And whatever you do, don't tell Mrs. Cruz." Fitz didn't think Jada would say anything to Olivia if she knew, but he also didn't want to take any chances.
Dre smirked. "I'm not that kind of stupid. Plus, you know women get all sister-circle protective. Jada could tell Olivia and we'd still never know."
Fitz nodded in agreement.
"So, are you nervous? Not just about the proposal, but about marriage."
"Hell yes!"
Dre laughed at his friend.
"Seriously, Dre. I want to spend the rest of my life, and beyond, with Olivia. But the hold she has on me is sometimes frightening. The possibility of her ever leaving me or falling out of love with me scares the shit out of me."
"So now you're beginning to understand why some men get cold feet."
Fitz nodded. "And why Olivia put up such a fight in the beginning. Being in love like this means giving away all power, and putting your heart in the palm of another person's hand, hoping they don't squeeze too tight." He grinned at Dre. "But I'd do it all over again in order to make Olivia mine forever. She's the one."
"I'm happy for you, friend. Olivia's legit. Authentic. She's made you a better man. I'm also happy to see you looking better than the half-dead dude who was missing his girlfriend almost two months ago."
"Who?"
"Don't play, Fitz. You!"
"I wasn't half-dead, Dre."
Dre shook his head. "No, I know what I saw. You were half-dead. That drained look usually comes from a man who's having a disagreement with his woman. I know you, man, so think before you try to deny it."
They both laughed because they knew Fitz couldn't deny it. But of course he and Olivia were in a much better place now.
"Seriously, marriage is a huge step and I can't complain about a thing. I love my wife beyond reason and my baby girl's thriving. What more could I ask for?"
"I can't wait to have children with Olivia. But a small part of me is afraid, almost intimidated."
"It is hard and scary, and it can be intimidating. You will find out who you are as a father, Fitz. But you've always been all-in, never giving less than one hundred percent. So I know you won't give your children, or Olivia, less than your best. And it's all worth it. The love and the satisfaction of knowing your family is okay, man you can't trade it."
"Yeah. The love I have for Olivia is all-encompassing. I can't imagine loving someone, who doesn't even exist yet, this way."
"Well, let's get the proposal and the wedding out of the way before you start naming your children."
Fitz chuckled. "She has to say 'yes' first."
Dre clapped him on the back. "She will. Now rack 'em again."
X
One week later…
Fitz sat in his home office talking to Olivia on the screen of his laptop. She was sitting cross legged in the middle of her bed wearing too large cotton pajamas, and her hair was styled in two long French braids. She'd been diagnosed a week ago with strep throat and it had landed her flat on her back. She was sick enough that her grandmother, Olivia, a former nurse, had stayed with her and nursed her back to health with the help of antibiotics.
Fitz felt that she'd run herself ragged during the holidays, trying to close all of her open cases before the start of the playoffs. And that had contributed to her falling ill. She was too sick to work or do anything else for that matter, and had spent the bye week in bed.
Fitz had spent the week practicing and worrying about Olivia. He spoke with Big Olivia, several times per day about her progress. The older woman had assured her granddaughter's worried boyfriend that Olivia was getting better. His concerns were somewhat relieved when he finally spoke with Olivia, briefly, two days ago. She'd called him today, which meant she was on the mend.
"Hey, baby. How are you feeling?"
"I'm about ninety percent better. So much so, Gran's going home tomorrow."
Her voice was raspy and sexy. Even without make-up, she was still his beautiful Livvie, although her usual glow was hidden behind a little paleness.
"I'm still a bit lethargic," she said before taking a sip of the sports drink he'd had delivered, along with several other items he thought she might need, to her condo. He'd told her that the drink would help with electrolyte replenishment. "And now you have me drinking this liquid death." She grimaced after taking another sip.
Fitz chuckled at the face she made. "You can thank me later," he commented, feeling sympathetic.
"Thank you for the soup delivery from Momofuku, and the flowers. You're the sweetest."
Fitz grinned, happy his love was feeling much better. He watched as she adjusted her oversized pajama top.
"So are you ready for Sunday's game? By the way, I'm sorry I won't be able to attend, but Jo and I will be here cheering for the Team."
Olivia's follow-up appointment wasn't until Monday and she didn't want to be in a crowd of people if she was still contagious.
"We're not making many changes for New Orleans, just continuing to do what got us to this point. We'll make the necessary adjustments if we need to. And as far as you attending the game, I understand, Livvie. Just knowing that you're feeling much better is enough for me."
Olivia smiled. "Thank you, baby. I love you."
"Love you too."
She took another sip of her drink and a small belch escaped her.
"Wait! Did you just belch?"
Olivia laughed. "Leave me alone, Fitz. I'm sick."
Fitz's response was to laugh, loudly.
"I don't like you," she said with a pout.
"But you love me," he said when he finally sobered.
She looked at him and placed a hand over her heart, nodding. "I really do."
"And I love you, belching and all."
She started laughing again but the laugh turned into a cough that made her eyes water.
"You okay?"
Olivia nodded but the cough continued until it ended in another belch.
"Oh, heck no!"
Olivia fell onto her back laughing until tears rolled down her cheeks. She tried sitting up, but had to lay back down a moment to catch her breath. "Now I'm getting a headache," she said when she finally sat up.
Fitz didn't respond immediately. That's when she noticed the direction of his gaze and the huge grin on his face. Looking down, she saw what he saw. Falling over laughing had caused her top to twist sideways and fully expose her right breast.
"Oh my God!" She looked away to make sure her grandmother hadn't witnessed her accidentally flashing her boyfriend. Placing a hand over the laptop camera, she quickly fixed herself.
"Sorry, babe."
"I'm not," he said, still grinning and resting his chin in the palm of his big hand.
"Of course you're not," she said wryly.
"Yeah," Fitz responded absently.
"Fitz. Eyes up here with mine."
Still grinning, he finally refocused his attention on her beautiful face. "It's been over a week since I've seen you, and them, Livvie.
Rolling her eyes, Olivia changed the subject. "Don't you have to leave soon for afternoon practice?" She tried hard not to laugh at the expression on his face.
He nodded. "I do. But I'd much rather stay home and talk to you."
"Oh no, mister. I will not be the reason you miss practice."
Fitz sighed. "Okay. Call me if you need anything. And I mean anything."
"I will, babe."
"And Livvie?"
"Yes?"
Leaning in close he whispered, just in case Big Olivia was within earshot. "You know how much I love your breasts. May I accidentally see them both?"
Olivia disconnected the video causing Fitz to throw back his head and laugh. After a minute or two, he stood from his desk and jogged upstairs to grab a few things before leaving for practice. He was leaving early because he had a stop to make. The jeweler had called. Olivia's ring was ready.