Part II
XXX
NFL Honors…
The night of the Honors was actually fun and relaxed. Fitz and Olivia had walked the red carpet together. He was handsome in black, head to toe custom Givenchy, while Olivia had chosen a strapless silk faille jumpsuit in red, with a floor length convertible skirt featuring a train for a little added drama. On her feet were four inch, red Rossi leather sandals. Since the jumpsuit was strapless, she and the hairstylist had decided on a loose chignon with a few loose tendrils framing her face. The make-up artist had given her a clean skin look and a hint of color on the lips. She wore Fitz's gifts in her ears and on her wrist. She felt good, and she looked good.
Fitz's reaction when he'd picked her up was priceless. He'd stood speechless, mouth slightly opened, and she knew she chosen the correct outfit.
The couple was bombarded by journalists and photographers, all wanting to know about Fitz's spectacular season, and about the status of their relationship. He happily answered the former and ignored the latter. He'd also promised Olivia that he wouldn't leave her side, and he hadn't. She was comfortable doing press conferences when she was with the AUSA's office because no one was asking personal questions. This was different. She wasn't used to being under the glare of spotlights, but with Fitz there, she got through it, and actually answered a few questions tossed her way.
Fitz escorted her inside the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, where the event was being held. He introduced her to a few other players, coaches and their significant others before they were shown to their seats on the front row. Olivia looked around and nodded 'hello' to Coach Fauci and his wife, Malcolm and Chloe, and a few Team defensive players who were also nominated.
She had been with Fitz when he'd received the news that he was finalist for league MVP. She'd leaped into his arms and squealed with delight as soon as the call ended.
"Oh, my God! That's great news, Fitz! Congratulations, baby." She kissed him long and hard. "You deserve this." She caressed his beard covered face. "I am so proud of you."
"WE did this, Livvie. Me and you. Without you by my side, supporting me, I'm not too sure I would've kept it all together this season. You are my rock, lady."
She grinned. "If you say so, mister."
"I want you there."
"Where?"
"At the Honors ceremony in Miami."
"Anything for you."
He cupped her face in his hands. "Every step of the way…together..me and you."
She nodded. "Me and you."
Olivia squeezed Fitz's hand and he looked at her. "I love you," she whispered. "No matter what happens tonight. You are my winner, and I'll prove it to you after the game on Sunday."
Fitz grinned. "Wicked, wicked woman," he said against her lips. "I can't wait."
XXX
The evening's festivities were underway, hosted by a comedian known for a tour called Kings, and one after another presenters and winners took to the podium.
The first of several wins for the Football Team went to Malcolm La Blue. He won AP Offensive Player of the Year, and was so overcome he could barely speak. Olivia was shocked. This definitely was not the same cocky and arrogant young man she'd met almost a year ago. He'd come a long way, and she was actually happy for him. He thanked his parents, teammates, coaches and Chloe before raising the trophy above his head and leaving the stage.
Next, the highlight reel for MVP finalists was shown and their names were read. When Fitz's name was called as the winner, he sat several moments before it registered. His teammates, coaches, and friends around the league were on their feet as he pulled himself together, kissed Olivia and jogged up the steps to the stage.
Olivia was certain she was going to explode with pride and love as she watched him give his acceptance speech.
There are so many people to thank. To the entire Football Team organization, your support of me since the day I was drafted eleven years ago has been amazing and heartfelt. Also the Football Team fan base, it's been an amazing eleven years. I'm so thankful for the memories over the years. Coach Fauci, thank you for trusting me, supporting me and empowering me these last few years. My teammates who chose me to be their leader, their captain. I'm thankful that I get to work with you guys every day, and stand in the trenches with every Sunday. I can't thank you enough. Guys, this is because of you," he said, lifting the trophy. There was more cheering and when his teammates settled down, he continued. "To my amazing family and their unwavering love and support, thank you." He looked at Olivia. "And finally, to the beautiful woman that I love, Olivia Pope. If I'm the league's MVP, then you are mine. Your brilliance inspires me. Your beauty overwhelms me. Your selflessness has taught me what it means to truly love another person. Without you I don't have the season I've had. I love you. You've made me a real winner. Thank you.
Olivia stood clapping as tears clouded her eyes and poured down her cheeks. 'I love you' she mouthed as he left the stage.
Fitz was escorted off the stage and all he wanted to do was get to Olivia. When he returned to his seat, she was waiting with a hug and a kiss.
"I am so proud of you, Fitz," she said. "And I always will be."
Fitz didn't care that they were in a room full of people and that there were cameras all around them. He pulled Olivia flush against him and kissed her as if they were the only two people in the world.
"I love you, Livvie," he murmured against her mouth, to the applause of those sitting around them.
"And I love you right back."
"Good. Now let's get out of here."
XXX
Friday evening…
Fitz sat on a lounger on the private balcony of Olivia's suite with her sitting across his lap. They were on the balcony because being inside was too tempting.
Earlier, they'd had dinner with T.C. and Ty, and it had been a laid back affair. Olivia had enjoyed conversing with the young couple, although she'd occasionally had to squeeze Fitz's thigh to bring him into the conversation.
They'd finished dinner and returned to her suite to relax on the balcony. Fitz had had practice earlier and the final media day, along with other team obligations and he was exhausted.
A full moon hung in the sky and a warm breeze blew in from the Atlantic. Olivia had changed into something more comfortable and was wearing a cami tank with spaghetti straps and a pair of tiny cotton shorts. Fitz's arms were wrapped her and his chin rested atop her head as they silently watched the lights flickering across the ocean, and listened to the music in the distance. They were both going to miss the Miami weather when they returned to D.C., and old man winter.
"Dinner was nice. Thank you for being civil to Ty," she said as she sipped on a mug of tea, while he drank water.
And he had been. They'd chosen to have dinner downstairs at the outdoor restaurant because Fitz didn't want to go out among the crowds. Olivia had suggested they stay close to her hotel and he'd agreed. They did run into a few fans in the hotel lobby and she'd stood back and watched as he signed a few autographs. The fans truly loved him. He was the perfect quarterback in terms of looks, charm, intelligence and attitude.
Later, they were standing in a private area of the restaurant facing the South Beach waterfront, with Fitz standing behind Olivia, his arms around her waist, and her body molded to his. He kissed the back of neck and she moaned softly which was why neither of them heard their dinner partners arrive.
T.C. cleared her throat. "Excuse me. There are other people here. Are you sure you want us to join you?"
Olivia quickly stepped out of Fitz's arms and walked over to his sister and her boyfriend. "Of course. We both want you here with us." She glanced back at Fitz.
Fitz opened his arms to hug his sister. "I wanted you here so I could do this." He put her in a headlock.
T.C. yelled. "Fitz! Let me go! I'm going to kill you." She managed to punch him several times in his arm until he let go. He then gave her a noogie, took off running and T.C. took off behind him in her heels.
Olivia laughed at their antics, memories of being tortured by her own brother. She was also happy to see Fitz so playful, carefree and relaxed. He'd been under so much pressure this week with everything going on. He needed to relax and unwind, and tonight she would make sure he did. She stepped closer to Ty, who seemed just as amused as she was. He leaned down and kissed her cheek.
"How are you doing, Liv?" Ty asked.
"I'm doing well, Ty. Just enjoying my time here, soaking up the sun and the sights. South Beach owes me nothing!"
Ty laughed as they both watched Fitz pull his sister into a tender hug. He smiled.
"I have two older sisters and I get it from them both. Glad to see brothers win sometime."
They both laughed.
Fitz and T.C. walked back toward them. Regardless of what Fitz said or felt, she could tell that so far, Ty was a good match for T.C.
Olivia looked at Ty. "Come on, our table is ready. Let's go and join those two.
Ty grinned and put his arm through hers. "Let's go."
XXX
Ty fit in perfectly and she could see why T.C. had fallen in love with him. She was still the same T, but he'd brought out a sense of calm in her. She'd told T.C. as much when they'd visited the ladies room at the restaurant.
"Ty's really a good guy, T."
T.C. smiled. "He really is. We've really gotten to know each other very well over the past few months."
Olivia nodded, encouraging her to continue.
"I love him, Liv," she said with a soft smile and tears in her eyes.
"Oh, T." Olivia reached out and pulled the young woman into her arms. "I'm so happy for the two of you. I'm also glad we're having dinner together. Just the four of us."
"Me too." T.C. hugged Olivia tight. She loved her brother's girlfriend like a sister. "I'm so glad we get to be sisters."
Olivia's heart grew full as they pulled back from the hug and exited the room.
"Ty took a chance with T even though he knew you wouldn't approve. I guess he liked her more than he was afraid of you," Olivia said, her voice interrupting the silence.
"Love makes you do strange things, I guess." He kissed her hair. "I know it knocked me out flat the first time I laid eyes on you and it continues to lead me around by the nose every day." He grinned at her. "Trust me, I know all about love," he continued. "I know about wanting to be with someone twenty-four hours a day, about wanting to hear their voice, smell their scent, feel their warmth and tenderness, being lonely even if they're only in the next room. I know about having someone smile at you and knowing in that instant that you'll belong to them forever. If that's how Ty feels about my little sister, it doesn't really matter how I feel about them being together."
By now, Olivia was completely focused on the man she loved. She knew this was hard for him but he was trying.
"T.C. said Ty feels you think he played you to get next to her."
"There may be some truth to that."
"He fought his feelings for her because of you, Fitz. But he couldn't stay away. And she loves him, and she can't let him go no matter how much she loves you."
"I wouldn't want her to do that."
"I know that, and so does she."
Fitz sighed. "I just don't like that some things have changed between us."
Olivia nodded. "T.C.'s grown, babe. She's an adult."
"He's four years older than she is."
"But she is still an adult," Olivia reiterated.
"She's my baby sister."
"And she's also Ty's girlfriend," And they're in love, she thought. "She keeps reminding you of that."
"He's sleeping with my little sister, Livvie."
"Maybe. But that's between T.C. and Ty."
Fitz was obviously still uncomfortable about the two dating, but he was going to get through it in the same way he gotten through everything else.
"So you're going to just have to allow them to figure it out."
Fitz groaned. He knew she was right, but he didn't have to like it. So he decided to change the subject.
"How was the fashion show?"
Olivia smiled. "It was so much fun. Just a group of ladies coming together, having fun and raising money for charity. And, they had some of the best designers represented. You know I was in my element." They both laughed. "We're going to visit a few stores tomorrow. I saw some pieces I'd like to try on and purchase."
Fitz wanted to take care of Olivia's purchases but didn't want to press his luck. He knew how she felt about taking his money. That's why he had to marry this woman…soon.
XXX
Earlier that day…
Olivia and Joey arrived at the Palm Court in the Miami Design District in time for the private reception which was held before the start of the show. She noticed some of the women staring at her and whispering, and others giving her approving head nods, as she and Joey walked farther into the tent. Joey always turned heads wherever she went and today was no different. She wore a tiered halter neck pleated mini dress which stopped several inches above the knee, showing off her dancer's legs. The four inch snake print leather lace up sandals and her wild curls made her taller than her normal five feet seven inches. Even with minimal make-up, she resembled a model.
Olivia had chosen an elegant and tailored white McQueen suit, with a slashed deconstructed cut-out blazer showing glimpses of her flawless skin. She wore silver Zanotti basic leather and PVC stiletto sandals, and her hair was pulled back into a sleek ponytail. Her only make-up, again, was mascara and lip gloss.
A hostess escorted them inside the air conditioned tent where the reception was being held and where Lauren, Tracee, Chanel and Renee were already mingling. When they saw Olivia and Joey, and they all greeted each other like long lost friends. Later, the ladies were seated in the front row for the fashion show, directly across from the Denver wives and girlfriends.
XXX
"I met so many WAGS, Fitz." She looked at him. "That's what we're called. WAGS. Can you believe that?"
Fitz smiled, nodding. "Yes, I'm aware that's the word some people use to refer to the wives and girlfriends of pro athletes. It's just an acronym, nothing more." He leaned down and kissed her fragrant hair.
"Oh, I know. I'd just never heard it used so casually. Anyway, that group of women is like their own unique sorority. It was nice talking to others about the ups and downs of having a significant other who plays professional football. I mean, of course, I have my friends in the Wives Club, but meeting so many others gave me a lot of different perspectives."
"Oh, yeah?"
"Yes. Everybody has a story, and so many of them gave up so much, including careers, for their men."
"You know I would never ask you to do that, Livvie."
She kissed his chin. "I know. And if I thought that's what you expected of me, we wouldn't be together."
Fitz chuckled. "Don't I know it."
She chuckled too. "And don't you forget it. Benny was in her element, taking me around introducing to me. It seemed like a reunion. I loved how most of them spent their time catching up, not talking about football. Several of the ladies were also curious about the woman who captured the heart of the great Fitzgerald "The Golden Arm" Thomas Grant III. Some stopped short of saying you were a great catch, and that I was the lucky one."
Olivia felt the vibration of Fitz's laughter and turned to look at him. "Oh no, mister, we've already established that I'm the prize in this relationship," she said, playfully punching his hard bicep.
"Yes, Livvie, you are the prize."
It was Olivia's turn to laugh. "I'm thinking about volunteering my legal services to the organization. I have the contact information for the person I would need to speak with."
"That's great, Livvie. I can't believe this is the same woman who stormed out of her first Wives Club meeting."
Olivia nudged him with her shoulder. "True," she said, nodding. "But as I've gotten to know the ladies and participate in the group's activities, my attitude toward most of them has changed, and my guard has come down. You know, the biggest misconception about pro athlete wives is that they shop everyday and spend a lot time in hair and nail salons. But in reality, they're all hard-working wives and mothers, some of them juggling careers and serving their communities. It seems as though they're the real MVPs of their families."
"Hey," Fitz said indignantly and she laughed.
"Since I joined the club, the ladies have stepped up their efforts to be more engaged with the community. They now realize the effect they can have. It reminds people that although you guys are well-respected, we also have a presence and a purpose."
Fitz hugged her to him. "I love you, lady. I love your compassion for others and your willingness to step outside your comfort zone."
"Yeah, well lucky for you, I was up to the challenge, and everything worked out."
"And I'm happy it did."
"Fitz, even if you retire, I may participate in the runway show next year in New Orleans."
Now he was really surprised.
"And maybe you can walk the runway with me."
"What?!"
"Think about it, babe. The ticket sales would be through the roof, and it would be for a great cause."
"Livvie, if you decide to participate I will support, you behind the scenes. But I am not a model."
"No you're not. But you could be my accessory. You know, look nice, hold up your strong arm so I can hold on, and make sure I don't face plant on the runway."
Fitz threw back his head and laughed. "Well I look forward to being your accessory."
Olivia softly kissed his lips. "A very sexy and handsome accessory."
Fitz leaned down and covered her mouth with his, and Olivia moaned as she kissed him back. He then moved his hand to her breasts as he communicated without words how much he wanted her. Lifting her so she could straddle his lap, he moved his large hands to her ass. Olivia felt Fitz's hard dick pulsing against her stomach, and she knew she had to stop him before they ended up in that big bed inside.
"Fitz, we can't do this! Stop!"
She must have gotten through to him because he raised his head and looked into eyes with his hooded ones.
"Not tonight, baby."
Breathing heavily, he lowered his forehead to hers. "You're right. I'm sorry."
Olivia placed a finger to his mouth. "Don't apologize. I want you too." She wrapped her arms around his neck and tried to get as close to him as she could.
Fitz could feel his dick getting hard. "Stop wiggling, Livvie." Her attempts to get more comfortable shot desire straight to his groin. "We both know that nothing can happen tonight, but if you keep grinding your cute little butt against me, we may have to make some impromptu plans to the agenda."
Olivia looked at Fitz and chuckled. She could feel what she was doing to him. It was poking her butt. "I'm sorry. I was just trying to get comfortable."
He began to kiss her shoulders and neck, knowing his hardness at her behind had her panties wet.
"You're trying to start something again, Mr. Grant," she said softly.
Fitz continued to trail kisses down her neck. "Yes, baby, I am." He cupped her breasts, gently caressing them. "I can't get enough of you. Every time I touch you, I want you," he whispered huskily.
The thought of them christening that bed tonight had crossed her mind, but she knew they couldn't.
"Since I can't have you the way I want, let me do this for you."
She felt his hand reach inside her panties. "Fitz," she moaned as a finger slipped inside her. Olivia bit down on her bottom lip and moved her hips against his finger. As he finger fucked her, he paid special attention to her clit.
Fitz ground his dick against her ass and she responded by moving faster against his finger.
"Fitz, please," she begged. His mouth moved to her throat where he left a trail of kisses. What he was doing to the lower half of her body was causing her move wildly on his lap.
Olivia's sexy moans were driving him crazy, but he controlled his need, because her enjoyment was more important than his own pleasure.
"Relax, Livvie…enjoy," he whispered close to her ear. His finger expertly slid over and around her clit until she was slick from his ministrations. Olivia's breath caught when he added a second finger, and as his fingers moved deeper and deeper, she moved faster against them.
"Oh my God!" she moaned as she felt her body losing control. She knew it was just a matter of seconds before she came.
"Fitz!" she breathlessly screamed as she felt herself about to climax.
Fitz leaned down and cut off her scream with his mouth, kissing her, devouring her as if he was famished. He felt her body shake all over as she came and collapsed against his chest, panting heavily. He could feel her warm breath on his neck.
After a minute or two, Fitz slowly removed his fingers from inside her and his hand from inside her panties then kissed her temple.
"Are you okay, Livvie?"
"Mmm-hmm. I am better than okay."
Fitz chuckled and massaged her scalp as her chest continued to heave. "You know I'm not finished with you, but it will have to wait until Sunday."
Olivia laughed tiredly but didn't open her eyes, and a huge grin spread across his face.
"I'm giving you a break tonight, lady."
"Whatever, mister."
He turned her head to face him and kissed her softly. "But don't worry, I've got this. You're going to be calling out my name on Sunday night. Oh Fitz, Oh Fitz," he said, mimicking her voice.
Fitz glanced down at her and the little evil smile on her lips turned him on. He knew she was ready for whatever he had planned. "So be careful what you wish for."
They looked at each other and burst into laughter, definitely wishing it was already Sunday.
XXX
Super Bowl Sunday…
Fitz.
Fitz and Olivia had FaceTimed for over an hour before he needed to get ready to head to the stadium. It was four hours before kickoff, and his nerves had already begun to turn his stomach with anxiety. He had awakened that morning on edge, nervous energy consuming him. Olivia had teased him, and then she'd bowed her head and whispered a prayer of gratitude and thanksgiving, and to keep all of the players safe. Before saying goodbye, she'd wished him the best of luck, but she didn't really think he'd need it.
The ride to Hard Rock Stadium, made with police escort, was short and quiet, and as Fitz walked through the tunnel, headed to the locker room, he was feeling almost giddy with excitement and joy. A sudden calm had come over him ever since the moment he'd seen Olivia's beautiful face and heard her voice.
Inside the locker room, the first thing he did was find his assigned locker, which was between Malcolm's and Victor's. His pants, cleats helmet and game day jersey hung inside. The Super Bowl patch sewn on the jersey was jarring. This was real. He was playing on the biggest stage in the NFL's biggest game. For a moment, he couldn't articulate what it all meant to him. He looked around the large room at his teammates, realizing they were all feeling the same way about this day. The energy in the room was more subdued, and focused.
Everybody was going through their own game day ritual. There wasn't much else Fitz felt a need to do, anxious only to get out on the field and play. He looked around at everyone, some getting massages or acupuncture, others were getting taped, or stretching and loosening up.
Fitz headed to the shower, which was his game day ritual. He always used the time to go over the Team's game plan. When he finished, his usual trainer taped up his ankles tightly. When he was finished, Fitz slipped into his pants and cleats then headed out to the field to test the grass.
Bare-chested, he ran a lap around the field, making cuts into the grass to test the traction, making sure the spikes on his cleats were right for the surface. When he was satisfied, he and the trainers went back inside. Walking into the locker room, he found Dre standing near his locker, looking nervous.
"Hey," Dre said. "How are you feeling, man?"
Fitz nodded as the two men clasped hands and bumped shoulders in a one-armed embrace. "I'm actually good, man."
"That's good. Hell, I'm nervous."
Fitz laughed. "What are you nervous about? I'm the one who has to play."
"True dat, brother," Dre chuckled. "I just want this for you because I know how hard you've worked, and how much bs you've had to deal with to get here."
Fitz nodded. His friend was correct. In all the years they'd both been with the Team, they'd never made it this far. He was just glad that Dre was able to experience it all vicariously through him.
"Did you go out last night?"
Dre smiled, nodding. "A few of us hung out at the ESPN party. We had a great time, saw lot of people. Too bad you couldn't join us."
Fitz grinned. "You know me. I was alone last night, getting my head together. I spent time with Olivia, alone, before I had to leave. We had early curfew."
"Dre smiled. "It's all good. How's that other situation coming along?"
Fitz gave Dre a blank stare until it dawned on him. "I'm still trying to find the right time. Maybe when we return to D.C."
"Well you'll know when it's right. Let me know if you need anything."
Fitz nodded. "Thanks, brother. I will."
"No problem. Look, I'm going to let you finish. Good luck," he said and walked away.
Fitz went to get stretched. He relaxed as the trainer pushed and prodded each of his limbs, flexing and relaxing the tightness out of his muscles. Soon, Fitz found himself lost in thought. This was his big moment. He tried to visualize himself making several big plays, leading the Team to victory, in his head. Then for a moment he imagined Olivia wearing both his rings, engagement and Super Bowl, dressed in nothing but his jersey. The imagery made him smile as he thought about the moment he could make that happen.
By the time they were all ready to head out to the field, Fitz could barely contain himself. Everything inside him said this would be a game that would go down in history, and he was ready for it. He had sacrificed a lifetime for this one moment. And knowing Olivia was there to witness it all made it even more real.
XXX
Olivia.
After a fun-filled four days in which Olivia had truly enjoyed spending time with Fitz, their families, and her friends, it was time to focus on the reason they were in Miami: the big game. Her nerves were bad and she couldn't wait for it all to be over. She'd spent the week trying to stay calm for Fitz, because she felt if she couldn't control anything else, she could control her emotions around him.
The playoffs had been intense, and the Team had had to come back in both their games. She knew Fitz well enough to know he blamed himself and he would be determined to fail at the Super Bowl. It was stressful because although she had all of these emotions going on inside, she was trying to hold it all in and just pretend like nothing was wrong. So she was looking at it as just another game.
Olivia sat in the backseat of the large SUV on her way to the stadium. There were fans of both teams everywhere wearing team gear. She looked down at the brand new custom jersey, courtesy of Fitz, that she was wearing. It was fitted, with GRANT emblazoned across the back and showed off more cleavage than she liked, but it had been a gift from her love so she wore it. She'd completed the look with skinny jeans, platform sandals and a Team baseball cap.
She'd seen Fitz the day before when the Team had taken their official Super Bowl photo at the stadium. Friends and families had also been invited and the event was closed to the media. Olivia and the other wives and girlfriends had been able to hang out with their men and take pictures before the Team was whisked back to their hotel.
The ladies had used that time to do a little shopping before parting to spend time with their families. Later, after dinner with her parents Julian and Joey, Olivia was able to hang out with Fitz for a little while, before he had to leave for an early curfew. They wouldn't see each other again until after the game. She and Joey met up with the other ladies and attended a few parties before calling it a night.
At the stadium, Olivia met her family, which now included Harrison and a few others, and they were all escorted to their seats. Fitz had purchased a suite for Olivia, both their parents, Julian, Joey and a few family members. The Team members had each received two tickets and had to purchase each additional ticket for friends and family. He'd wanted his family together and comfortable, so the sideline suite was the best option. It would be the first time Olivia wasn't with the Wives Club during a game.
XXX
Olivia was on her second glass of wine by the time America the Beautiful and the national anthem were sung. After all the pomp and circumstance, they began to announce the starters for each team and the crowd roared. When Fitz's handsome face flashed across the jumbotron screen, everyone in the suite went wild. The cameras focused on him jogging to the sideline. He waved at the fans before looking up and searching the front of the suite for Olivia's face. When he found her, he winked but still wore a serious expression on his face. She blew him a kiss. She knew he was preparing to play the game of his life and was in a zone, concentrating. Her heart pounded as she watched him, knowing that this man, who was loved by so many, was totally and unequivocally in love with her.