Hey everybody, y'all all right? Hope this update finds you all in good health. I'd like to thank you all you so much for STILL continuing to read AWS, leaving your comments and suggestions, and for your crazy PMs. I love reading your thoughts about what I've written. I'm posting two new chapters. I started writing and couldn't stop.
There really is a LOT going on in these chapters. Also, I know not everybody is a football fan, so please bear with me. I enjoyed writing all of it, and I hope you enjoy reading it.
Happy reading,
TBOT
Part I
Saturday before the divisional playoff game...
"So you just decided not to attend tomorrow's playoff game?" Fitz asked his sister. He sat at the island in his kitchen late Saturday morning. She'd sent him a text the previous evening telling him that she wasn't going to be at the game with their parents.
"I did," T.C. answered. "My roommates and I are having a few friends over. But we'll be cheering on you and the Team."
Fitz did a mental inventory, trying to remember the last time he'd seen his little sister, and realized it was at dinner with him and Olivia, before she went home for the holidays. He had not seen her since she'd returned to D.C.
"So I'll see you sometime next week?"
"Yeah, maybe," she said before laughing loudly and talking to someone in the background. He heard several voices, male and female, which he didn't like. Mostly because she seemed more interested in what they were saying than talking to him.
"T, who are you with? I hear guys in the background." One sounded vaguely familiar.
He could hear Olivia's voice. Leave T alone and let her enjoy herself. But he didn't care. If T.C. couldn't find the time to see her big brother, the least she could do was have a conversation with him without being distracted by whoever she was with.
"Hey Teddy, you coming? Everybody's about to leave."
"Who is that?" he asked getting pissed. Again, the voice sounded familiar.
"Nobody. Just a friend, but I have to go. I'll let you know about next week."
"Wait, I'm having dinner with Mom, Dad and the Popes tomorrow night after the game. Do you want to join us?"
"Fitz, I already told Mom and Dad that I won't be able to come. I'll call you next week. Okay? I've got to go. Love you, big bro."
"Love you, too," he said, but then realized she was gone. He was upset his sister was too busy to have a ten minute conversation with him. Sighing in frustration, he tapped his phone and placed a FaceTime call to the one person he knew would be happy to talk to him.
After one ring, her beautiful face appeared on the screen. She was in her home office, sitting behind her desk. Her face was make-up free and a little thinner, but she appeared healthier. Her hair was in a messy bun and she was wearing a pair of navy tortoise glasses.
"Hi, baby. How are you?"
"Hey, Livvie."
She noticed the look on his face and became alarmed. "Fitz? Are you okay?"
"Yeah. I just talked to T, or tried to at least. She's not coming to the game tomorrow or dinner later, and she wouldn't commit to hanging out with me next week."
Olivia relaxed and smiled. "Aw, babe, stop brooding. She's doing exactly what we encouraged her to do."
Fitz shook his head. "No. I don't remember telling her to be too busy for me."
"Fitz, we told her to make better choices, get some new friends and enjoy the full college experience. That's what she's doing. She's going to class, her grades are stellar and she has great friends. You can't get upset because she's following your advice."
Fitz snorted, still not happy. He missed the T.C. that needed him. Now she behaved as if he didn't exist.
Olivia remained quiet while he continued to vent.
"It feels as if she doesn't need me anymore, Livvie, and it hurts."
"Babe, she needs you and your parents, and she always will. Just in different ways.
"Well I don't like it, and who the hell was that man calling her 'Teddy?' That's not her name, and it sounds stupid. Is she dating? She doesn't tell me anything, but I know she talks to you."
When Olivia didn't immediately respond, he became anxious. "Is she?"
Olivia sighed. "Fitz you threatened the guy she really liked. The one you could've kept tabs on." She smiled at him. "As far as I know, she's not dating, so stop stressing. She has friends. That's all."
He looked away and then back at his love.
"Fitz what's really going on?" Something wasn't right. "I understand letting T.C. go is hard, but this, one day before your divisional playoff game. This is what you're worried about? Really?"
"It's nothing."
Olivia shook her head. "No. It's something. You're stressed."
"I'm not."
"Yes you are. If you don't want to tell me now, that's okay. But whatever it is, please stop stressing. Okay?"
Fitz stared at her for almost a full minute, and then ran a hand down his face, trying to get his thoughts together. "The Team is depending on me, Livvie, and I'm not too sure I can pull it off tomorrow. You saw how I struggled during the game with Tampa."
"Fitz it's okay to have doubts, all leaders do. You're expected to exude confidence all the time, but everyone has self-doubt sometime. Even me." She smiled at him and he returned it. "Every time I go to trial, fear and self-doubt rear their ugly heads. Not because I feel incompetent about doing my job, but because I fear letting down the victims. Not doing enough to get them justice."
"You're good at what you do, Livvie."
She nodded. "Thank you. So are you. The Team wouldn't be where they are if it wasn't for you. They're in the position to win it all this year. You did that, Fitz. You're the number one seed, and even if you lose tomorrow, you kept your word. You're back in the playoffs. Those guys will go to war for you. But Fitz you've never doubted yourself or been afraid of anything, why now?"
"We came so close last year. I'm afraid to let the guys down again."
Olivia was shocked by his admission. "I can tell." She had watched him play enough to know when he was getting in his head. It usually happened when the Team was behind and he tried to do too much, but he always managed to lead them to victory. "I didn't want to say anything because I didn't want you to think I wasn't supportive, or didn't believe in you."
The look on his face broke her heart.
"I made so many mistakes against Tampa. But I knew that even if we lost, we'd already made the playoffs and would get to play again and correct those mistakes. I won't get that chance if we lose tomorrow."
"Fitz, if that happens, you'll know that you gave everything. You left nothing on the field. And you can try again next year."
"What if there isn't a next year?"
"No next year? Have you made the decision to retire?"
He shrugged. "Or I could be cut."
"Babe, football is a team sport. You weren't the only one who wasn't at his best against Tampa."
"What if I am cut? Is there still an us?"
Olivia frowned. She hadn't expected that question…at all. It was actually insulting. He knew she wasn't with him for his status as an NFL star.
"Fitz there is always an us, as long as you can survive not being a football player."
He chuckled and she'd never been happier to hear that sound. "I don't even know what that looks like."
Olivia smiled. "Well, one day you won't be playing anymore, so it will look like retirement."
Fitz shook his head. "Not there yet."
"I know you're not, so why are we having this conversation?"
He sighed. "You know, I'm not really sure, Livvie."
"Well if you're unsure because you're afraid, then I won't allow it."
He smirked. "You won't allow it?"
Olivia nodded, smiling. "You heard me. I will not allow it. The Fitzgerald Grant I know doesn't back down from a challenge. If you did, we wouldn't be together, and you wouldn't be the love of my life. You have kept this team together and led them to an outstanding season. No, I won't allow you to run from who you are and what you've accomplished. You will get your stubborn ass out there tomorrow and play your heart out, win or lose."
Fitz threw back his head and laughed. He knew she was getting upset. It was the only time she used curse words. Well…and when his tongue, fingers and hard inches brought it out of her. He got hard whenever she did. It was so sexy.
"I love you, Olivia Pope."
She grinned. "I know. And I love you too. Now, you still have work to do tomorrow, and I expect a win. But if not, that's okay too.
Fitz repeated, "That's okay, too."
Olivia nodded.
"So what are you up to, love? I see you're in your office."
"I'm feeling great so I decided to get some work done. I've closed ninety-five percent of my cases and I should be finished next week."
"How does it feel knowing next week may be your last in the AUSA's office?"
When she'd talked to Marc he'd told her to take as long as she needed to make her decision. He'd also admitted that her decision to leave wasn't a surprise. She was one of his best and brightest, and could go anywhere she wanted, doing whatever she wanted to do.
"If this is what you want to do, I am here to make sure whatever you choose to do will work out. I will handle things on this end. You just let me know if you need anything. You have options," he'd said. And she did.
But she didn't need time. She was at peace with her decision. It was time. She'd left Marc's office still not knowing what her next career move would be but grateful to have him in her corner.
"Bittersweet? I've tried not to think about it too much, but I know it will be emotional. I mean, for seven years, I've had the same tough job. Day after day. Week after week. Months turning into years. It's one of the most familiar and comfortable places I've ever known. I've made some good friends, Marc was the best mentor and I've learned so much, but now it's time to move on."
Fitz nodded. He understood what she meant about moving on.
"I'm ready, and looking forward to a new chapter in my life. She smiled at him. "I'm not eager to say goodbye, but I'm prepared to go. Believe me, there's no thought of changing my mind."
"There's no way to prepare for it. But Livvie your legal career isn't ending, it's just moving in a new and different direction."
She grinned. "Absolutely."
"You're beautiful as usual," he said, changing the subject. "And you look a lot healthier."
Olivia blushed. "Thank you, baby."
"Have you been eating? Regularly?" He knew that she would forget to eat when she was busy with a case.
"As a matter of fact, my appetite's returning and I've been craving Mom's mac and cheese. She's preparing dinner for me and bringing it over in about an hour. Of course she's also coming to see for herself that I really am on the mend, and feeling much better." She stared at her boyfriend. "I'm so sorry I won't be in the stadium tomorrow cheering you on," she said softly. "I was really hoping I could be there."
"I'm going to miss looking up into the suite and seeing your gorgeous face, but I also understand why you can't be there."
"Well Jo and I are having our very own playoff party right here, complete with drinks and snacks, and I will be wearing your jersey, and nothing else," she teased, smiling seductively at him.
"Livvie, no," he said shaking his head. "It's been too long. I can't have images of you half-naked running through my mind while I'm playing."
She chuckled. "I'm sorry, babe."
"Don't be. Any other time I'd be asking you to do very naughty things for me with that Butterf…"
"Fitz!"
"What Livvie? It's not as if you haven't done it before."
"I know that."
He could tell she was embarrassed because her cheeks were flushed red. "I need to pack and get to the Team facilities for the ride to the hotel," he said, changing the subject again.
"Why so early?"
"We're doing walkthroughs early so we can watch the Arizona-Chicago game together later."
"Okay. What time are you guys heading to the stadium tomorrow?"
"It won't be early, but I'll call you before I leave."
"That'll work. Now get going. I love you."
Fitz gave her that grin. "I love you, too. He ended the call and sat thinking about the woman he was going to ask to be his wife. She was the entire package. She treated him with respect, kindness and tenderness, and she supported him. She was his lover and his best friend, and had enhanced his life in ways he'd never envisioned. He'd done everything he could as a man to show her she was loved, valued and cherished. Aside from material things, the only thing he had left to give was himself. He reached for the ring box sitting on the island. He'd been carrying it around the house since yesterday. He opened the leather box and studied Olivia's ring, impressed by its clarity and the cut of the center stone he'd designed, hoping it fit and that she would like it.
Sighing, he closed the box and stood. Taking the back stairs to his bedroom, he stopped to place the ring in his safe, and then packed his bag. Twenty minutes later he was heading to Ashburn, ready to kick some New Orleans ass.
X
Sunday…
Olivia's stomach was in knots as she sat on the sofa in her living room, along with Joey, watching the game. Fitz had called her on his way to the stadium and she'd wished him luck, and reminded him that she would still love him, win or lose.
So far, it hadn't been a pretty game and with two minutes left, it was close, twenty-one to seventeen, New Orleans. The New Orleans defense had been all over Fitz. The Team had started off cold but had managed to score all seventeen points in the third quarter. They needed a touchdown to win, and New Orleans had the ball.
"Jo, I can't take too much more of this," Olivia said, grabbing her bestie's hand.
"I know." Joey squeezed Olivia's hand.
They sat and watched nervously as New Orleans quickly moved the ball down the field, chewing up time on the clock. Finally, the quarterback threw across the middle and Nick stepped in front of his intended receiver and intercepted the ball, running it back up the field. He was finally tackled at the Team's forty yard line.
Olivia and Joey jumped up hugging and screaming along with the crowd in the stadium. Fitz and the offense quickly ran back onto the field. They had seventy seconds to perform a miracle. The first play was a pass to Drew for fifteen yards. Olivia had to remind herself to breathe.
Fitz broke from the huddle and everyone quickly lined up. The play was a sweep pass to Victor for a first and goal before running out of bounds. Olivia stood with her hands steepled in front of her face. The next play, Fitz broke from the line and everyone thought it would be another pass to Drew since Malcolm had been pretty much shut down the entire game.
The New Orleans secondary had everyone covered, and Coach was yelling at Fitz to throw it away. Fitz's arm was pumping as if he was going to do just that. But finally, a hole opened up and he took off running.
"OMG! Joey! He's going to do it!"
"Yes! Run Fitz! Run!" Joey screamed.
Olivia, Joey and the Team fans were going wild as they watched Fitz jump over defenders and perform a forward roll into the end zone. Touchdown! Twenty-one to twenty-three! Game, the Football Team! They were on their way to their second consecutive NFC Championship Game, against Arizona.
"Yes! Yes!" Olivia screamed, as tears ran down her cheeks.
Joey grabbed her and they hugged each other, still jumping up and down. Olivia was still in awe of the play Fitz had made. And he had been worried; she never doubted that he would lead his team to victory again. The two women had been so caught up in their own celebration, that they hadn't noticed the activity on the television. When they turned back, they expected cheering and jubilation. Instead, they witnessed a hushed crowd. Olivia's heart stopped. Fitz was still on the ground, surrounded by medical personnel. The muscles in her stomach clenched.
He wasn't moving, and the analysts were reviewing the play to see exactly what happened. The medical staff called for a stretcher and the cart drove out onto the field. Fitz was carefully placed on the stretcher and strapped down before being taken off the field. Olivia watched it all unfold in slow motion, unable to believe what was happening.
"I need to call someone," Olivia said as she reached for her phone with shaking hands. The tears were now streaming faster, unchecked. Pulling up her contacts, nervously she scrolled until she found Jada Cruz. Calling Jada, she asked for Dre's number. He'd been on the Team sideline the entire game, and had a better view of what happened. Jada answered immediately and sent Olivia her husband's contact information.
Olivia tapped her screen, hating that she couldn't be near Fitz and promising herself, and him, that he would never play another game without her in attendance. He was her heart.
Joey had Julian on the phone. He was currently with the Grants and the Popes on their way down to the locker room, escorted by security. He was also going to drive them all to the hospital.
Dre answered on the second ring. "Olivia."
"Dre, what's happening? What's wrong with Fitz?" she asked around her tears.
"There's no word yet, Liv. He was semi-conscious when they brought him off the field. I'm going to the hospital, and I'll keep you posted."
"Where are they taking him?" she asked anxiously.
"UM Medical in Largo. If they need to transfer him, they will."
"Please stay with him Dre."
"You know I will. And I'll call you as soon as I know more. Okay?"
"Okay," she whispered. "Make sure he wakes up, you hear me?" Although she knew that whatever happened to Fitz was out of their hands.
"He will, Liv." Dre ended the call.
Joey wrapped an arm around Olivia. "Liv, we have to wait," she said, guiding her best friend back over to the sofa and urging her to take a seat. "Can I get you anything?"
Olivia shook her head and focused on the television.
The network had returned with their post-game highlights, but promised that they would update their viewers with any news about Fitz as soon as they received any. The next few minutes dragged on like hours before Olivia's phone rang. It was her mother, and she answered quickly.
"Mom, what's going on?" she asked in lieu of a greeting.
"Calm down, baby. We were able to see him before they loaded him into the ambulance. He'd regained consciousness and gave us all thumbs up. It appears to be a concussion but we won't know for sure until he has a CT scan. Apparently he took a knee to his head when he dove into the end zone. They're taking him to the hospital for tests to make sure he doesn't have swelling on the brain. The CT scan is being done to err on the side of caution. The fact that he's awake is a good sign. "
Olivia gasped. "Did he say anything at all?"
"No, baby."
Olivia's gaze met Joey's anxious one and she lost it, sobbing out of control. "Mom, Fitz is my heart," she said through her tears. "I love him and I want to marry him; he has to be okay."
"Olivia, baby, calm down. We have to pray he will be okay, and he will be. Okay?"
"Okay, Mom," she said softly, sniffling.
"I will call you as soon as we hear anything else."
Olivia nodded as if her mother could see her, and Maya ended the call.
X
For the next two hours, they remained in Olivia's living room. She'd received calls from T.C, Lauren, Tracee, Chanel and Jada asking if she was okay, if she needed anything or if she needed them to come over. She thanked them all for their kindness, but Joey was there and she was enough. They sat as if they were afraid to move. As if they somehow wouldn't hear about Fitz if they left.
"I don't know how much longer I can wait, Jo. Maybe I should go to the hospital myself. I know someone, some doctor, will be happy to check me out before I see him."
Joey shook her head. "We have to be patient, Liv."
"I know. And I'm so grateful you're here with me, trying to talk me down." She smiled sadly at her friend. "I love you, girl."
"Love you, too." Joey continued to hold her hand.
Thirty long minutes later, Olivia's cell rang and she jumped. It was her mother again. She answered quickly, but afraid. "What's happening now, Mom?"
"Someone wants to talk to you, Olivia."
She heard shuffling.
"Hi."
"Hi," she responded as her tears became a river.
"Livvie, baby…don't cry. I'm okay."
"You scared me, Fitz."
"I know sweetie, and I'm so sorry," he said sleepily. "I have to remain overnight for observation, but I'm really okay. I'll be home tomorrow."
Olivia nodded. "Okay," she said in a small voice.
Her mother took the phone again. "He's tired, but he's conscious. He'll probably drift back to sleep soon. He's being discharged tomorrow afternoon. The neurology team wants to observe him overnight. Several of his teammates are here, and JR's staying with him tonight. We're taking Constance home with us. He won't be alone, so don't worry."
"Mom, what about the scan?"
"The CT scan was negative for any injury to his brain. There was no serious injury or brain swelling. His vitals are good, and he's currently awake. That's a good sign. Deborah, uh Dr. Sullivan, says he has a mild concussion. He hasn't complained of blurred vision or had any nausea since he arrived, but he did wake up complaining of a mild headache."
Olivia paced back and forth in her living room, trying to release some of her nervous energy.
"The consult with the neuro team showed no evidence of bleeding or swelling, and they are recommending that he rest."
"How did he react when he was told that he'd have to stay overnight?"
Maya chuckled lightly. "He was not receptive at first but Dr. Sullivan explained the seriousness of his injury, and also told him that he wouldn't be released until he was completely cleared by her team."
Olivia smiled, nodding. She knew it. That was her Fitz. Stubborn.
"They'll run more tests tomorrow morning and if they come back negative as well, he'll be discharged at noon."
"My appointment is at nine tomorrow morning. Dr. Reynolds should clear me. I'll leave her office and drive straight to Great Falls…and Fitz."
Maya Pope smiled on the other end. Her daughter was in love.
Olivia breathed a sigh of relief. "Thank you, Mom. Thank you so much."
"Anything for you, baby. We love Fitz, too. Now, get some sleep. You have a busy day tomorrow."
Olivia nodded. "I'll see him when he's discharged."
"Tomorrow. Fitz is resting comfortably so we're leaving now. Constance needs to rest too. Good night, baby. I love you."
"I love you too, Mom."
Maya ended the call and for the first time in what felt like hours, Olivia breathed deeply with relief. She was so grateful for her family, and her Team family.
She took Joey's hand in hers. "He's going to be okay, Jo. He's going to be okay."
X
Monday…
Olivia was awake early. She hadn't slept well. Joey had spent the night and had prepared breakfast for them both before she left to meet a client. Olivia really didn't have an appetite. She just wanted to see her man. They'd watched the news on the small television in the kitchen. There were hundreds of fans outside the hospital waiting for Fitz to be discharged. There was also a press conference scheduled for the Team doctors to update everyone on his injury.
X
As expected, Olivia was cleared to return to work and other activities. She'd also spoken to her mother who, along with her father, had driven Constance back to the hospital. A private car would take all three Grants to Fitz's home. She hadn't heard from him, but really hadn't expected to. After leaving the doctor's office, she headed straight to Great Falls, and Fitz. She needed to be near him as soon as she could.
X
When Olivia slowed down to turn onto the familiar road leading to Fitz's home, there were several news trucks and reporters yelling questions at her about Fitz's status for the NFC game. Thankful that Fitz's security team was keeping them off the property, she just smiled politely and made no comment.
Bert had the front door open before Olivia exited her vehicle in the circular driveway. The two women embraced, tears filling their eyes, both happy that Fitz was home and okay. When they walked inside, Olivia noticed that the drapes were drawn. She walked into the kitchen where JR, Constance and T.C. were waiting for her. They all hugged her and made small talk before she excused herself and went up the back stairs to the bedroom, where Fitz was waiting.
Olivia knocked before stepping inside the large, darkened room. The bed was still made and Fitz was nowhere in sight. Dropping her purse on a chair, she walked further into the room toward the bathroom and there he stood, fresh from the shower, dressed in pajama pants and nothing else. When he saw her, he grinned tiredly, and held out his hand. Smiling, she hurried toward him and jumped into his arms. He lifted her so he could kiss her before placing her back on her feet. She looked up into his tired face, and reached out to caress his bearded cheek.
"I love you more than you will ever know. Don't you ever scare me like that again, mister." She poked him in his hard chest for emphasis.
"I'm sorry, Livvie." Fitz kissed her again, passionately, before coming up for air. He pulled her into a hug and kissed her hair. "I needed to see you. I was so afraid, Livvie. When I went down, I felt numb and saw my life flash before my eyes. I thought I was dying before everything went black. When I woke up, I was grateful to be alive, and I wanted you next to me."
"Fitz, I wanted to be there with you too. I could hardly wait for my doctor to finish all those tests this morning so I could see you."
He turned her around in his arms so they could look in the mirror. She leaned back against his chest, smiling at their reflection in the mirror and loving the way they looked together, like a couple in love.
Olivia sighed. "I have no intention of ever missing another game."
Fitz didn't respond. He just leaned down and kissed the side of her neck before cupping a breast with one hand and sliding the other up her skirt.
"Fitz, what are you doing? You have a mild concussion. You need to rest."
"Livvie, the best thing for me right now is you."
He couldn't be serious. "You don't mean sex. In the shape you're in?" she asked incredulously.
He nodded.
"Fitz, we can't do this. Your parents, your sister and Bert are right downstairs," she hissed. "You've been injured and should be resting," she said, but offered no resistance, and bent slightly forward.
"Why not?" He gave her that grin. "I know it will make me feel better, and it will probably make you feel better, too." When he kissed her again, she knew arguing with him was futile. His appetite for her had never waned, he'd always been insatiable. Today was no different.
He took her hand and placed it on his hard inches. "Shh, Livvie, it's okay. I thought I'd never see you again, and I am not waiting." He winked at her reflection. "I want to watch you as I make love to you. So trust me on this, okay?"
It was his body; who was she to say he wasn't up to job? And from what she could feel, he was more than ready.
"Okay." She thought it was too soon but he needed her to trust him.
Fitz pushed her skirt up her thighs, moved her panties aside and thrust his thickness deep inside of her, while Olivia held on to the marble countertop. Her eyelids drooped as he filled her. She was always amazed at how her core acted like a magnet to his dick. It synced up like a puzzle, no assistance needed. Slowly, at first, he drove himself into her.
"Fitz, pull back; it's too much."
Fitz grinned as he took his time. "You feel so good, Livvie," he whispered near her ear.
Olivia stared at their reflection. She loved everything about this man. From his hard body to the smell of his sweat. There was nothing she didn't know about Fitzgerald Grant, and there was nothing he didn't know about her. Of course they were ever evolving individuals, and there were certainly more changes to come.
"Damn, babe," Olivia whispered as Fitz moved in and out of her with such force, she wondered where the aggression was coming from, especially after his injury.
She raised one arm above his head to pull it close. "Harder. I can take it, babe."
Fitz's only response was to inhale sharply. His rhythm was so hard and fast, Olivia knew that she would have trouble walking tomorrow. Her body was on fire as he brought her to the edge several times before pounding into her so fast, she knew he was about to come. Her muscles tightened around him and he knew she was right behind him.
"Ahh, Fitz! Babe! I'm gonna cum," she said louder than anticipated. The thought of Fitz's parents, his sister or Bert hearing her was the least of her concern.
Fitz pulled her closer, turned her head and drowned out her screams with a kiss. He was almost certain everyone downstairs heard her.
Olivia gripped the vanity so tight, her knuckles turned white, and Fitz emptied his seed into her before he collapsed onto her back, exhausted.
They remained still until they caught their breaths. She looked in the mirror at Fitz's face. His eyes were closed and his breathing was labored.
Olivia frowned. "Fitz, baby, are you okay?" Slowly, he eased out of her and she turned in his arms to face him. She knew he heard the anxiousness in her voice.
Fitz opened his eyes and a sexy grin curved his lips. He nodded and wrapped her in his arms. "I'm better than okay, Livvie." He kissed her, deeply, while running his hands up her body, then dropping them to her butt, squeezing her cheeks. "Now let's take a shower and then lie down for a nap."
Olivia watched his tight ass as he walked over to the walk-through shower and started the multiple shower heads. He returned and helped her finish undressing, then took her hand and led her into the shower.
X
Later that night…
Olivia lay next to Fitz, propped on her side, looking at him. She loved him so; and felt most at peace when they were together. Earlier, after their tryst in the bathroom they'd moved to the bed and made love again before falling asleep. They were later awakened by Bert who'd brought them a late lunch. Dre called Olivia to get an update on his friend and was pleasantly surprised when she handed the phone to Fitz. He'd spoken to Wyatt earlier that morning.
They fell asleep again before finally leaving the bed to shower again and join the Grants downstairs before dinner.
"Are you going to play on Sunday?"
No one had asked at dinner earlier, though they may have discussed it before she'd arrived. He hadn't mentioned playing when they were alone in bed earlier either.
"We have one game left, two if we make it to the Super Bowl. I was told that if this were the beginning of the season, I would've been advised to sit out at least one game to rest. But I can play, with caution. Meaning our medical team will check my vitals consistently during the game, if necessary."
"Fitz, exactly what happened? I watched the play and thought you were fine until I saw you laying on the ground, and the medical team was running toward you. You weren't moving. It felt as if my heart was beating out of my chest. I've never…it was…Fitz I was so scared."
Fitz reached out and wiped her tears before taking her hand and pulling closer. "When I jumped over those players into the end zone, I took a knee to the head."
Olivia winced.
"It was definitely a fluke. I don't think it was done on purpose, but it was hard enough to cause me to briefly lose consciousness, and a mild concussion. I also had one hell of a headache when I woke up. Coach was just glad it wasn't more serious."
"I'm glad he cares so much," Olivia said sarcastically. It pissed her off that everyone was consumed with whether he could play and pressured him to play even if was career or life threatening. Concussions were serious everywhere but in the world of football it seemed.
Fitz kissed her temple. "Hey, I knew what life was going to be like when I became a professional football player. I love this sport, Livvie, and I earn millions to put my body on the line every time I put on a helmet."
"I know, but I don't have to like it."
"As I've said before, football was a temporary detour in my life. I have options many people, including other athletes, will never have."
"And the league makes millions more while you push your body to its limits." She pouted and he leaned down and kissed the pout, like she knew he would.
"I worked hard to put our team in this position. There is no way in hell I'm not playing."
"And I'm not asking you not to play. I might be freaking out watching you play, but you've got to lead the Team to the NFC Championship game, and win this time." She rose up and kissed his lips. "I just wanted to know what the doctors said about you playing again. I may hate the game, but I definitely love the player."
Fitz laughed, loudly, relieved that Olivia wasn't giving him a hard time about playing. "Good one."
"So what's next?"
Fitz hugged her tighter. "Well, I've entered concussion protocol. I won't practice tomorrow or Wednesday while I'm going through the steps. By Thursday, I should be back on the field. I'll also require clearance from an independent neurologist to be able to play Sunday. That will need to be done at least ninety minutes before kickoff."
"Are you sure you want to play again?" She needed him to be sure.
Fitz sighed and thought before he answered her question. "While I was on that stretcher, in that ambulance and whisked up to x-ray for a CT scan, the thought of retirement did enter my mind, several times. I realized football didn't really matter to me anymore. Nothing meant more to me than you. I could walk away right now with you by my side. I would give it all up for you in a heartbeat."
Olivia leaned away from Fitz, surprised. "Fitz, I would never ask you to give up football, and I know you're not ready to either. I'm just afraid that you'll be injured again. It was hard seeing you lying on the field like that."
He reached out and pulled her back into his arms. "I'm so sorry, baby. I didn't want you to see me that way either. I always want you to see me as your strong man, but we both know that's unrealistic."
She stroked his chest. "You are my warrior, my protector and my heart. You will always be strong to me, no matter what happens to you physically. I will always be here. I love you, Fitz, and I'm not going anywhere."
Fitz lay back on the mound of pillows and pulled Olivia onto his chest. He looked deep into her beautiful doe eyes. "I'm going to be all right."
She nodded but she was still afraid.
Fitz kissed her and she knew where it was headed. "Babe, you're concussed," she said as she leaned away from him.
"Come on, Livvie. We made love earlier and I feel fine." He tried to kiss her again but she put her finger to his lips, stopping him.
"I think you're trying to do too much, and your parents are on the opposite end of the hallway, but they can still hear us. And did you forget what T.C. said?"
Earlier…
Olivia and T.C. were sitting together talking while Fitz's parents fussed over him. T.C. gave her a little side eye, which Olivia returned.
"What?" Olivia asked.
T.C. leaned in closer. "When you and my brother get married and have children, I suggest you invest in soundproof walls."
The color drained from Olivia's face. She knew she was loud earlier, but was still shocked that T.C. had said anything. And if she heard them, surely Fitz's parents did too. She'd never been so embarrassed in her life.
She'd told Fitz what his sister had said as they prepared for bed, and all he did was laugh. "Hearing is better than seeing, Livvie."
"Fitz!"
"I'm serious. I would rather our children hear us than walk in on us."
She tilted her head. "We will definitely need a strong lock on our bedroom door."
Fitz chuckled. "Not just the bedroom. I plan to have sex with you all over our home. In the living room, the dining room, against the wall in the foyer…"
Olivia laughed. "Okay, mister. I get the picture." She could imagine her and Fitz getting it in all over the house, acting like lovestruck teenagers whenever they got the chance.
Current…
Fitz grinned. "Then you should be a little quieter this time."
Olivia was adamant that they wouldn't be having sex in the house as long as they had guests, but Fitz could be very persuasive. She looked at him, rolled her eyes and kissed him. "You know you drive me insane sometimes, but I love you. This is why our children will probably be scarred for life because their father can't accept the word no."
"Damn right," Fitz said against her lips as he gently laid her on her back. Olivia moaned when he entered her and slowly began to move his hips. She grabbed his muscled arms as the sexual pressure built, ready for release.
Fitz grinned as his pace increased, and Olivia closed her eyes beginning to feel the first of her orgasm. She panted, "Ohh…Fitz…what are you doing to me?" He smiled as he grabbed her to him. With their naked bodies tangled, he thrust faster until they climaxed within moments of each other. It wasn't long before they both fell into an exhausted, sated sleep, lost in their own world.
X
Tuesday morning…
Fitz was up early and in Ashburn before the sun rose. He'd left Olivia asleep in bed. He was a little tired, but she was exhausted from not getting much sleep for a second night. Constance had told her that the neurosurgeons had suggested waking Fitz every two hours to make sure he'd wake up and that there were no adverse reactions to the concussion. She'd set the alarm on her phone and checked his pulse as subtly as she could, before waking him with a gentle kiss on his shoulder. He didn't seem to mind once she told him why she was doing it, and understood that she needed to do it for her own reassurance. That's why he didn't disturb her as he prepared to leave.
When everybody started filtering in and found out he was in the building, they all came by to see for themselves that their Captain was okay. Though no one was sure if he would play on Sunday, they assured him that he was still needed whether he was on the field or off.
Olivia had decided to work from home and spend some time with Fitz's parents before they left for D.C. to see their daughter. They were also having dinner with Popes and, unbeknownst to Fitz or Olivia, the Henrys. They'd had breakfast together and talked about everything but Fitz's injury. They were all worried but were taking their cues from him. If Fitz said he was okay, then they would have to accept that.
Olivia worked in their now shared space, Fitz's home office, most of the day. The room was large and he rarely used it. He'd surprised her with a desk of her own on the other side of the room. She'd been on Zoom calls with her office and other attorneys most of the day, stopping only when Constance encouraged her to have lunch with her and JR before they left. She'd been back at work for two hours when her phone rang. She smiled when she saw the caller's name. The couple hadn't spoken all day.
"Hey, babe, how are you feeling?" she asked.
Fitz sighed. "I've had every test imaginable but the medical staff will only allow me to do light stretching. I did more than that with you yesterday, Livvie."
Olivia heard the frustration in his voice but deep down she was grateful for the medical staff. They were not going to allow him to skip steps in the protocol or do them halfway. "Fitz, they're looking out for your well-being, and I appreciate it."
"I know, but I feel fine. No headache, nausea or dizziness. I also know that there's no way I'm going to be allowed on the practice field before they feel I'm ready. I just wanted to vent."
Olivia chuckled. "So what have you been doing?"
"Well, I'm in phase two of the protocol, exercise. I've been riding the stationary bike."
"You see, you're already in phase two. At this rate, by tomorrow you may move on to phases three and four."
Fitz knew she was trying to cheer him up because she loved him, and he appreciated it. "So what are you up too?" He didn't want to drag her into his pity party so he changed the subject.
"I've been working all day. I did stop to have lunch with your parents before they left for the city. Working from home today was a good idea because I was exhausted, and I'm walking a little gingerly."
Fitz laughed.
"I'm serious, babe. I knew my nosy colleagues would be watching me, so staying home was a good idea." She giggled.
"Well, Livvie, if you can't walk, that is your fault. I distinctly remember you telling me to take you harder, and you know I aim to please."
Olivia had the biggest smile on her face. "And it was amazing. I personally don't care if I can't walk for the next week. I would do it again."
"Well in that case," he said seductively. "How about tonight we…" he trailed off.
"Fitz, no."
"What's the matter, too soon?"
Olivia laughed. "You're so silly. Do you honestly think you'll have the strength tonight after practice?"
"I'm only riding a stationary bike, I'm sure I can rise to the challenge."
"No. We're having dinner, lovingly prepared by Bert, and then we're going to bed."
"And I can't wait until..."
"Oh no, mister, we're both getting a good night's sleep. I'm exhausted."
"Fine, beautiful," he said, but he knew she was right. They both needed to sleep.
"I thought you'd see things my way." She sounded very pleased with herself. "Dinner's at six. See you then."
"Okay. I've got to get back to the practice field. Love you, Livvie."
"I love you, too."
X
Olivia decided to remain in Great Falls the rest of the week. She'd stuck to her guns and when Fitz returned home on Tuesday night, they'd had dinner, showered and went to bed. He was up early again Wednesday morning leaving her in bed asleep. She'd worked from home again because she got more done. Fitz had called her later that day excited that he was now in phase 3 of the protocol and it was definitely looking as if he'd be able to play on Sunday. They'd celebrated with dinner, and attempted to watch a movie in their favorite room. Olivia got cozy on the sofa, looking comfortable and half-asleep, while Fitz selected the movie and dimmed the lights. By the time he made it to her side on the sofa, she was already snoozing.
Fitz sighed, watching her sleep for a few moments. She was so beautiful, painfully beautiful, really, and she was also exhausted. His Livvie had been working non-stop trying to finish the work she had left before the NFC Championship game, and look after him. They were definitely getting away for awhile when the season was over.
Lifting her in his arms, he carried her upstairs to their bedroom, laid her on the bed, and covered her with the duvet. He kissed her forehead, and left the bedroom. Fitz stayed awake another hour studying the playoff playbook before finally calling it a night and climbing into bed next to his love, snuggling her close and joining her in sleep.
X
Thursday…
Olivia finally went into the office. She worked all day, closing her last few open cases, and handing off those headed for trial. She'd just returned from her last meeting of the day when her cell rang.
"Hey, bestie," Joey said when Olivia answered.
"Hey, Jo," Olivia responded tiredly.
"Wow, you sound exhausted."
Olivia stretched. "I've been here since seven, working nonstop. I'm beginning to rethink stepping away."
"No, Liv. You made the right decision. It's time."
Joey had supported her decision when she told her she was leaving. She felt her best friend had given all she could to the AUSA's office and it was time to move on.
"Have you decided on your Plan B?"
"I've been so busy with closing cases, and Fitz, I haven't thought about what I want to do next."
"Well, you could become a woman of leisure."
Olivia chuckled. "That sounds like something Fitz would say. But he's not my husband, and if we were to break-up for good, he owes me nothing."
"Girl you are not going to break-up. That man loves you, is crazy about you. He's all in."
Olivia sighed. "Oh, Jo, when I met him that day, months ago, there was no way you could convince me of that. His arrogance was a huge turn off, and I wondered why he would be interested in me, or why he thought I would be interested in him. If you had told me then that I would date, fall in love and want to marry Fitzgerald Grant, I would have laughed in your face." She did laugh to herself, still unable to believe how much her life had changed.
"Good, you're laughing. Just remember that your decision to date Fitz is why you feel the way you do right now."
Olivia agreed. She did feel contentment for maybe the first time in her life, and it was all because of Fitz.
"Everything worked out for you two and I'm so happy."
"Thank you, Jo." Then she had another thought. "Hey, how about Anju tonight?"
"I love that place!" Joey exclaimed. "But I can't believe Fitz is giving you the night off."
"Ha ha. You've got jokes. Seriously, Fitz is spending most of his time at the Team's facility going through the steps in the concussion protocol. He's trying to get cleared to play on Sunday."
"Is that safe? Should he be engaging in physical activity? I mean, he is recovering from a concussion."
Olivia sighed. She felt the same way, but Fitz was adamant about playing. He'd been sulky and irritable when he returned home the previous evening because the medical team had kept him off the practice field another day. He'd been restricted to the weight room, but was also moved into phase four in the protocol. He knew she didn't want him to play and risk something more severe, but he had no prolonged symptoms of the concussion, and was determined to play.
Olivia prayed for patience because their relationship had been mostly hills, but they'd also been through the valley, and she didn't want to go back. She definitely wasn't going to tell Joey that she and Fitz had had sex hours after he'd been discharged from the hospital.
"Well he's actually doing well, so far. He was symptom free when he was discharged on Monday, and Tuesday he was awake before me, on his way to Ashburn." She sighed. "I'm going to trust Fitz and the Team's medical staff to make the correct decisions regarding his health. It's all I can do."
"Well I know this is hard for both of you, but I also don't think the Team or their doctors would jeopardize the health of their star quarterback. Putting him through all those steps is their way of protecting him, and themselves."
"I know, Jo. But I still worry about him."
"And you know he doesn't want you to."
Olivia knew Joey was right, so she changed the subject. "Is six okay for dinner?" she asked, looking at her watch. It was three 'o clock.
"Yeah, that's fine."
"Okay. I'm leaving at four-thirty. That will give me time to go to my place, shower and change clothes."
"I'll call Angel and get us a table. See you at six."
"Okay, Jo. I'll see you there."
Joey ended the call, and Olivia sent a quick text to Fitz letting him know about her plans with Joey, and then worked for the next ninety minutes.
X
Later…
Olivia left her office at exactly four-thirty and went to her condo. She hadn't been home in a few days and honestly, if she hadn't gotten sick, it would've been much longer. She missed her space sometimes, but she also loved spending time in Great Falls. She loved Fitz's home, it felt like theirs.
Quickly stripping out of her houndstooth print skirt suit and underwear, Olivia pinned up her hair and jumped into the shower. After her shower, she moisturized and sprayed on Annick Goutal Eau De Charlotte. She smiled. Fitz loved that fragrance. Pulling on a pair faded skinny jeans, a red cashmere turtleneck and four inch leather studded booties in cognac, she walked back into her bathroom. Applying mascara and gloss, she finally unpinned her hair and it fell down her back. Combing it with her fingers, she left the bathroom.
Grabbing her cognac leather moto jacket, her mail, purse and a few other items, she headed out to Dupont Circle.
X
"So how are your wedding plans coming along?" Olivia asked after taking a sip of water. They'd just placed their food orders.
Joey's entire face lit up. "It's getting crazy, and real. Our mothers are pretty much getting what they want, and Julian and I are okay with that. Less work for us." They both laughed.
"Well be patient with them. They're both so happy for you and J." Olivia said. "We all are. Besides, the more Maya Pope is focused on your wedding, the less she's bothering me about whether she'll be planning mine and Fitz's wedding soon." Olivia twisted her lips and Joey couldn't help laughing.
"Everything is on schedule. Let's see, we have the venue, my dress has been ordered and so have the invitations. You and Giuliana have chosen your dresses, and the flower girl's dress has been also been ordered. Julian and I are meeting with caterers and cake designers over the next two weeks to nail down the menu and the cake. The florist is on the list too. I just don't know which flowers I want, yet. The planner and our mothers are making this so much easier."
Olivia chuckled and then looked at her best friend. "My brother is a very lucky man."
"That he is," Joey said, grinning.
Olivia meant what she said. Joey was perfect for her once uptight brother, and she made him very happy. The wedding was in four months, and Olivia was hosting a bridal shower for her best friend whether she liked it or not. Joey felt that she had everything she needed and really didn't need anything else. Olivia ignored her; Joey was her best friend, her sister, and she was getting a beautiful shower.
"Liv, your life has changed so much. How do you handle it all?" Joey asked.
Olivia was surprised by Joey's question but answered anyway. "Sometimes I don't. Fitz warned me when we first started dating that his life would get crazy. I just didn't know how much, and it does get overwhelming."
People knew who she was. They'd been staring at the two women since Olivia walked into the restaurant and took a seat across from the other stunning woman, sitting at a table tucked in a corner.
"Like right now, I know someone is probably taking a picture of us while we're sitting here."
Joey glanced around the crowded dining area and realized Olivia was right. Some diners were indeed staring and some were discretely snapping pictures with their phones. Their faces would probably be plastered all over social media before they left the restaurant.
"So how does it feel being a celebrity?" Joey asked with raised brows.
"I am not a celebrity, Josephine. I wish I could go out and people didn't recognize me or take pictures without my knowledge or consent. But Fitz is a celebrity athlete and it comes with the territory."
Joey shrugged. "Well yes, your man is one and he is proud to let the world know who you are, so get used it."
Their food arrived and they both dug in. Joey's words were still on Olivia's mind. Joey was right. But Olivia didn't know if she would ever get used to it, so she'd decided to just ignore that part of being with Fitz as long as she could.
TBC