Hey everybody, y'all alright? I'm back! Happy New Year! I haven't updated this story since October, and I figured I needed to write something. This chapter is just a lot of smut and fluff, which is why I know it's time to end it. I'm currently working on the next chapter and there will definitely be ONE more after that. As always, thank you all for reading AWS, and my other stories. It means a lot. Read this latest chapter and let me know what you think.
Happy reading,
TBOT
Transition…
A week after the Super Bowl, the couple attended their last Team function, the championship parade in D.C. Initially, Fitz wasn't really interested but Olivia told him since he was the reigning Super Bowl MVP he was expected to attend, and he'd regret it if he didn't. Reluctantly, he agreed.
The parade began at the African American History Museum near the Washington Monument, and moved all the way to 3rd St. NW and Pennsylvania Avenue, where a makeshift stage was set up for the rally, with the U.S. Capitol building in the background. The couple rode on an open-top, double-decker bus with T.C., Ty and the rest their friends. Fitz received an enthusiastic reception from the thousands of fans who lined the streets of D.C. chanting of 'M-V-P, M-V-P.' Olivia silently watched her husband as he danced and partied with his soon-to-be former teammates, smoking a cigar and sipping champagne from a red Solo cup. She was happy he'd agreed to attend because he needed the closure.
Fitz was adamant that he didn't want to give a "farewell speech" but knew he was going to have to address the fans, especially after they started yelling his name. After a little nudge from Ty, he stepped to the microphone.
"This is surreal. Being out here today and celebrating a world championship with you guys…again," he said. "It's been an unbelievable journey with so many ups and downs, and you guys have been right there with us ... every step of the way. I just want to thank all of you who made playing in this league, and in this city, such a wonderful experience for me. Thank you."
The crowd cheered and chants of 'M-V-P, M-V-P' started up again. This city loved him and all that he'd done on and off the field over his twelve year career. He would never play another down for the Burgundy and Gold, but they knew they'd see him again when the Team inducted him into their Ring of Fame, and in five years, when he would become Hall of Fame eligible, and would almost certainly be a first ballot Hall of Famer.
After several speeches, and keys to the city from the mayor, Fitz and Olivia said their goodbyes, with promises to stay in touch. Olivia drove her slightly inebriated husband home to Great Falls, where their son, who was being cared for by Bert, was waiting. Fitz thanked his wife for convincing him to attend, but now he was ready to be with his family, to be a full-time dad and husband.
XXX
Over the next two months, Fitz made the transition from NFL super star quarterback, to full-time husband and father. It wasn't as easy as he thought it would be. The Fitzgerald "The Golden Arm" Grant era was over and the Team was moving on, searching for a new quarterback. Dre had told him that retirement would be a shock to his system but until he'd actually experienced it, he'd had no idea. It was an adjustment because for twelve years he'd been accustomed to a packed training schedule, countless meetings per week and a strict diet. His life was planned, and there was rarely any down time. It felt strange to leave a life of structure and shift to a life of relative normalcy. He had dedicated so much of his life to the game, but fortunately, he wasn't one-dimensional and his identity and self-worth weren't tied into his status as a superstar athlete.
And though he felt liberated with his newfound freedom, he admitted to his wife that he was lost outside that bubble, and the locker room culture, but unlike a lot of retired players, he had no desire to hang out at the Team facilities. Instead, he used this time to decompress and allow his body time to heal and fully recover from years of pounding, after playing the game for twenty-one years. Did he miss it? Of course he did. But now, a lot of that time was spent caring for his infant son while his wife was busy creating a new career path.
They spent most of their days together, from waking until sleeping, as a family. It felt good, and it felt right. Now instead of going to Ashburn every morning, he worked out with his wife in their home gym unless she worked out with Joey. Sometimes they showered together, and while Olivia got ready for her day, he dressed and fed their son. When she finally came downstairs, they ate breakfast together, while Bert entertained her favorite tiny person.
Olivia also went through a transition with her husband being home every day. She absolutely loved him being home, but she had to adjust to him always being there.
Cruz was still growing too fast for his parents, but they were both grateful to be able to watch every moment. He kept them busy. They had slowly emerged out of the newborn fog of the last few months, and Cruz was no longer an itty-bitty infant, but a busy five month old. Time was seriously flying. He was sitting in his high chair, rolling over, and looking around when his name was called. He was also sleeping less during the day so Olivia and Fitz filled that time, when she wasn't on-air, with activities. They loved taking him on walks since he was now reacting more to sights and sounds. He didn't know exactly what he was seeing, but he seemed to enjoy it.
They also got to finally do things that Fitz could never risk his body to do while he was still playing, and found that bike riding was a family favorite. They also liked to roller blade but only while Bert was around to watch their son.
Fitz also read to his son daily, and both parents read to him at bedtime. They got a kick out of making silly sounds and voices, and Cruz always reacted happily. Olivia teased Fitz that no one would believe her very big and sometimes imposing husband loved rolling around on the floor with his tiny son, and read books using silly voices. Seeing him being a daddy only made her love him more, and she didn't think that was possible.
Fitz had been able to go to Cruz's wellness visits, something he wasn't sure he could've done while he was playing. He'd gone to Cruz's first pediatrician visit a week after he was born, but had missed the next two due to his playing schedule, which is why he couldn't wait for his four month appointment. He'd watched proudly as the doctor examined his smiling, cooing boy. He wasn't surprised that Cruz was ninety-ninth percentile in height, and ninety-seventh in weight. He was going to be big like his daddy. His boy was almost eighteen pounds of pure goodness, and was also meeting all his developmental milestones.
The appointment was going great until the nurse came into the exam room with a tray of vials and needles. Fitz watched his son, so small and helpless, as the nurse administered the vaccines, and it broke his heart. Cruz cried and he thought he was going to cry too. Fitz glared at the woman for making his son cry, but she simply shrugged. She was used to angry parents, and the great Fitz Grant did not intimidate her. But Cruz had only cried for a few seconds before gripping the breast his mother offered, and was quickly soothed. He'd stopped crying before they'd left the exam room, but Fitz was still unhappy. Olivia jokingly asked him if he wanted the other breast, and that brought the grin she knew it would to his handsome face. Later that night, he took her up on her offer.
XXX
April…
Fitz, Olivia and Cruz traveled to New York for the week of Easter where Olivia was scheduled to speak on a panel of legal defense experts, and where she could also tape a few segments at MSNBC's studios. She was busier than ever and the producers loved her because she knew her stuff. While she was taping, Fitz and Cruz spent time with his parents, and walking around the city. GG (Grandma Grant) and Poppy were so happy to have them for a week. They had dinner with Fitz's cousins Monday night and took in a Broadway show on Tuesday. Olivia also had plans to visit Bergdorf's and few other stores before they headed back to Virginia.
On Wednesday, the grandparents had insisted on babysitting while the parents went out, and Fitz took them up on their offer. Later that evening he met Olivia in the lobby at 30 Rock.
She walked off the elevator after her ten o'clock segment, and was surprised to see her husband waiting for her.
"Fitz?! What are you doing here?"
"It's date night," he said with a shrug.
"So?"
"So I'm taking my wife out on a date."
"Where's my baby, Fitz?"
Without a word he reached for her hand. "Let's get out of here."
Fitz knew he'd surprised her, but he was also determined to maintain the commitment they'd made to one another, that no matter what, they would always make time for date night. This was how they protected their marriage. It was where they checked in to see how the other was doing. Plus it was his favorite day of the week.
They'd established a routine. T.C. showed up every Wednesday evening in Great Falls to babysit her beloved "bubby." Their relationship was so sweet. Sometimes it seemed as if she loved Cruz more than his parents, which was impossible, but those two absolutely adored one another. They were both usually asleep when Olivia and Fitz returned later. The next morning, T.C. had breakfast with them all before returning to the city and to school. T.C. babysitting was also a chance for Fitz to check in with his sister and find out what was going on in her life.
Fitz escorted his wife to the large Black SUV parked at the curb, and the driver opened the back door. He helped her onto the back seat before sliding in next to her.
"You still didn't answer my question, mister. Where is my baby? Where are we going? And what…?"
Before she could ask another question, he covered her lips with his own in a kiss that took her breath away. When they came up for air, he leaned his forehead against hers. "That's still the only way I can shut you up."
Olivia chuckled. "Where's Cruz?"
Fitz sighed and finally sat back against the supple leather with Olivia in his arms. "Cruz is home with his grandparents."
"What!? Why?"
"Why? Because I'm taking my wife on an overnight date."
"Fitz, we can't ask your parents to keep Cruz overnight. What if wakes up and won't go back to sleep?"
"We didn't ask, Livvie, they volunteered. And you and I both know that he will sleep until at least eight tomorrow morning. Cruz will be fine with my parents for the next," he looked at his watch, "ten hours."
She knew he was right. GG and Poppy had in fact babysat their grandson in Great Falls and New Orleans, but never overnight. This was the first time they would be sleeping away from their baby, and she wasn't sure she was ready.
On the ride to wherever Fitz was taking her, Olivia FaceTimed her in-loves and was able to see her baby. He'd been bathed and was dressed in his pajamas. He was currently in his GG's arms holding his bottle, and his plush elephant, Bubby, before they put him down for the night. The grandparents assured her that he would be okay. They had plenty of milk, and a list of his likes and dislikes for breakfast. They could handle their grandson for the next ten hours. Olivia wasn't sure if she could make it through the night without him, but she also understood that she and Fitz needed to spend some quality time together, just the two of them. She thanked her in-loves, said goodnight, and ended the call just as the SUV pulled up in front of the Langham Hotel on Fifth Avenue. Olivia looked at Fitz, who simply grinned at his beautiful wife.
"So we're staying here tonight?" she asked. She wasn't surprised they weren't staying at a Grant property, they wanted privacy.
"Yep." Fitz nodded and climbed out of the vehicle, before extending his hand to his wife, while the driver handed the bellhop their bags, and tipped his cap to Fitz.
Fitz tucked Olivia's hand under his arm and led her inside the hotel. Since it was a Wednesday evening, there weren't a lot of people milling around, and the smiling concierge met them in the opulent lobby.
"Hello, Mr. Grant, welcome to The Langham, New York. Everything is ready for you."
"Thank you, Walter," Fitz replied, shaking the man's hand.
"Javier will take you up to your suite."
The couple followed the young bellman to a private elevator, which could only be activated with a keycard. They rode up in silence, and when the doors opened on the top floor, the couple stepped out behind the bellman to a closed door. Fitz tipped the bellman, then took the key card and their bags. He could handle things from here.
"Enjoy your stay, Mr. and Mrs. Grant," the man said, before he pressed the 'Down' button and the doors closed smoothly.
Olivia looked up at her husband. "What did you do, Grant?"
Fitz smiled down at his wife and winked. He couldn't wait to get her into their suite. The plans he had for her had his heart thumping. He took her hand and brought it to her lips, and then opened the door to their suite. Olivia gasped. The suite was bathed in candlelight from LED candles and in the middle of the living room was a table beautifully set for two, complete with more candles and orchids. The floor-to-ceiling windows offered a breathtaking view of the Empire State Building, and the New York City skyline was beautiful. The blackness of the night and the brilliance of the million lights made for a postcard worthy view.
"Fitz..."
"I knew you wanted to try Ai Fiori, downstairs, after Blair's glowing recommendation. Well this suite has access to private chef service so I called up Chef Michael White and had him prepare a special dinner, just for you. I didn't want to waste time in the restaurant when we could be having our own private party," he said as he walked behind her into the suite, closing the door before pulling her into his arms, and kissing her softly.
Olivia placed her arms around his neck, deepening the kiss. Finally breaking the kiss, she murmured against his lips, "Thank you, baby." It was all she could say.
Fitz nodded. "I need to call and let them know that we're ready for dinner." He took out his phone to call the concierge, but Olivia took the device, tossed it on the end table, and began unbuttoning his shirt.
"Livvie, aren't you hungry?"
She looked up at him with a sultry smile. "I am…but not for food."
Fitz chuckled. "I like the way you think, Mrs. Grant," he said, and quickly helped her out of her peplum suit jacket then reached for her blouse, pulling it from the waistband of her pencil skirt, and over her head, dropping it on the chair next to him. He then leaned down and circled her nipple through the lace of her bra with his tongue until she screamed his name.
Olivia's head fell back and she moaned. "Fitz, please."
She felt the zipper on her skirt separate and Fitz's hands pushing it to the floor. He licked his lips at the sight of her. She stood before him wearing a sexy black lace bra, garter, matching thong, silky sheer black stockings, and four inch heels.
"Sexy," he murmured before his large hands covered her breasts then slowly moved to her flat stomach and to her hips. Olivia shivered. Her eyes closed and a low moan slipped past her lips.
The strap of her bra fell off her shoulder and slowly he unsnapped the lacy garment, pulled it down her arms and off. Next he went to his knees and removed each shoe, then released the garter clips and rolled the silk down her legs and over her feet. Last, he removed the thong and tossed it over his head. Standing to his feet, he stared at her beautiful, naked body. Lifting her in his arms, he laid her on the sofa.
Watching his wife, he finished unbuttoning his shirt and tugged it off.
Olivia rose up on her knees, reached out and unbuckled his belt, sliding it free. She then unbuttoned his pants and tugged them along with his black boxer briefs down his long legs, and he stepped out of them. She smiled as she took in every long, thick inch of him before reaching out and lightly squeezing.
Fitz groaned before grasping her wrist. "I don't want to come in your hand, Livvie. I want to come inside you."
Olivia fell back on the sofa cushions, pulling him with her. Lying between her legs, Fitz kissed her forehead, her nose then finally her mouth.
"Fitz, now," she begged.
Lowering his head, he kissed her again and pushed inside her at the same time, burying himself deep.
Gasping, Olivia gripped his shoulders and wrapped her legs around his waist as he began to move in and out of her, deep and hard.
"Fitz," she said over and over. "Fitz, Fitz…"
"Yes, Livvie?" He looked down at her with hooded eyes.
"Fitz," she whispered near his ear. "That feels good, baby. You feel…so good."
"Is it too much for you?" he asked, enjoying the look of pleasure on her face.
She shook her head. "No, baby, more…please, more."
"I am obsessed with you, lady," he said, fucking her hard. "Everything that you are. Everything that you do." Their bodies continued slapping against each other as they neared their orgasms. "I love you so much, Olivia Grant."
Fitz knew that he wasn't going to last much longer. It felt too good, too intense. He ground deeply into her core.
"Let go, Livvie," he whispered. That was all it took.
"Fitz!" she screamed and he watched his wife as she came apart.
Seconds later, he climaxed, his mouth open, spasms rocking his body and collapsed atop her, chest heaving.
Olivia grabbed the back of Fitz's head and kissed him, hard.
"Mmm."
Their gazes remained on each other as they panted, sucking air into their lungs.
Finally, Fitz moved off his wife's body and climbed behind her on the sofa. His hand moved to her breast and he felt the fluttering of her heart in her chest. As it slowed, he sighed in contentment, moved her damp hair and kissed the back of her neck.
Olivia turned over so she was facing him, pressing her face into his bare chest, and kissing it softly. He held her tighter, and she moved her head directly over his heart.
"That was incredible," she whispered softly.
Fitz looked down at her and smiled, then leaned in for a long deep, kiss. No other words were necessary.
XXX
"So how long did it take to plan all this?" Olivia asked, looking around the suite's elegant living room.
They'd finally gotten around to dinner after midnight. Olivia wore a fluffy hotel robe, and Fitz was in his boxer briefs. He stared at his wife across the table. Her hair was pulled into a messy bun on top of her head, and her face was free of make-up. They had eaten an exquisite meal from the Michelin starred Italian restaurant downstairs, and were now sharing a Chocolate Vanilla Berry Panna Cotta Tart for dessert.
"Not until this evening. Cruz was having such a good time with his grandparents, and Mom knew that Wednesday was usually date night so she asked what we were doing. When I shrugged and told her since we were in New York, I hadn't really thought about it, she suggested that I take you out when you finished your segment. I thought dinner and an overnight stay in a Manhattan hotel would be perfect and she agreed. She also assured me that our baby would be just fine, so I quickly made a reservation, called the chef and packed our bags."
Olivia chuckled lowly. "I love your mother." She licked the last of the chocolate from her fork seductively, before pushing it into her mouth.
"Keep that up and I'll be dining on you for the rest of the night, Mrs. Grant," Fitz said with a low growl.
Olivia smiled. "Hold that thought." She licked her fork again and Fitz pushed his chair back, stood to his feet and reached for her hand.
"Let's take a shower."
Olivia looked up at her husband and finally took his hand, walking around the table and into his arms. Fitz grinned down into her face.
"You are gorgeous, Livvie."
Olivia reached up and caressed his cheek, "Thank you baby," but his attention was elsewhere. His eyes were drawn to her bare breast peeking from underneath the robe she wore. He untied the loose knot and the garment fell open. He quickly removed it and dropped it on the chair he'd been sitting in. Olivia's eyes followed his as he took in her perfect naked form.
"Come on." He lifted her into his arms and she wrapped her legs around his waist. Their lips connected as he walked them both to the bathroom. Olivia remained in Fitz's arms while he started the shower. It wasn't long before the room was filled with steam. They continued to kiss until Olivia finally pulled away.
"Fitz, babe, we should probably get in before the water turns cold."
"Yeah, okay," he said and placed her on her feet then stepped out of his briefs. "Let's get in." He swatted her ass and she yelped before stepping into the large stall.
Fitz reached around Olivia and grabbed a towel. He wet it under the hot water and then pumped a generous amount of the hotel's thick Laboratoire Remede Body Wash from the stainless steel mounted dispenser. He moved to guide the towel over her breasts, but Olivia took it from him.
"Let me."
He handed it over. Silently she reached up to his thick neck and started to wash her way down his body. She skipped over his dick, but her eyes never left it.
"Turn around," she whispered. She slowly washed and massaged his back. Seconds later, he felt her small hand reach around his body and grab his dick, as her nipples rested against his back. He moaned and leaned his head against the tile as she continued to stroke him, back and forth.
"Fuc…Livvie," he hissed then quickly moved away from her lethal hand. "Not in here."
Fitz turned Olivia around. "Allow me." He pumped more soap onto the towel and began to gently wash her body. He washed her neck, arms and breasts, then down her belly to her core. A part of him was getting hard again while her ass rested against him. Finally, he kissed her neck.
"We better get out of here."
Olivia nodded while Fitz reached around her and shut off the water. Opening the shower door, he grabbed a cotton oversized bath sheet and wrapped it around his wife's body. Lifting her into his arms again, he carried her across the bathroom, to the bedroom and laid her on the bed. Unwrapping the towel, he leaned down and licked droplets of water from her calf.
"Fitz," she moaned. He continued upward toward her core where he slid in a finger, causing her back to arch from the bed.
"Kiss me," she mumbled and he obliged
Moving back down her body, his large hands gripped her thighs and his tongue went deep inside, circling her clit. Her eyes closed tight and she pulled her bottom lip between her teeth. Fitz felt her legs tense and her back rose from the bed. Each lick had her ready to put his head in a chokehold between her thighs.
"Shi…Fitz!"
His tongue toyed and sucked on her clit repeatedly, adding pressure.
"Aah…oh…OH!"
Fitz growled against her core. He was enjoying making her moan and whimper.
"Baby…" Her legs shook, and she grabbed his head, pumping her hips, and pushing her clit against the added pressure of his flicking tongue.
"Ohhh!"
Fitz continued to feast on his wife and didn't stop licking until he felt her legs tense and shake. Her eyes rolled and her back rose from the bed again.
"Fitz…I'm going to come!"
He sucked her clit as she climaxed, hips pumping and body convulsing.
"Mmhmm," he said, kissing the inside of her thighs. Crawling back up her body, he kissed her belly and her nipples before looking down into her beautiful face. Her eyes were still closed and she had a look of pure bliss on her face.
The pleasure her husband had given her with his tongue was all she needed. Or so she thought.
Fitz propped himself on his forearms, trying to keep his weight from crushing his petite wife, and gazed down at her.
Olivia felt her husband staring at her and slowly opened her eyes. Their gazes locked, and her goofy grin matched his.
"I know you want to be back before our son wakes up, so we have about seven hours before we need to leave. I plan to taste you again," he kissed her breasts, "feel you," he rubbed a large hand down the length of her body and rested it on her wet core, "and fuck you for at least four of those hours."
Olivia grinned and cradled his face in her small hands. "I say yes, yes to all of that."
XXX
6am…
Fitz kept his word and they'd spent the rest of the night and the early morning hours making love. The sun would be rising soon, as they lay in a tangle of twisted and tired limbs.
"Thank you, baby," she whispered near his ear. "Thank you for all this." She leaned up and kissed his jaw, the stubble tickled her lips. "You knew I would be hesitant about leaving our son overnight, but you also knew we needed this time alone. I'm so happy right now." She'd enjoyed their night together but she still couldn't wait to see her son's sweet face and cuddle him in her arms. But, they needed this, which is why they made sure to always make time for date night.
They'd gone from spending every waking moment with one another to almost every moment with Cruz. Their little boy was the center of their world. It was amazing, beautiful, fun, different and hard. After he was born, things didn't go back to how they once were, and Fitz and Olivia had to adjust to their new normal as new parents. Their baby may have been the center of their world, but they also needed to make time for one another.
Olivia smiled lazily up at him.
Fitz laughed at the satisfied look on her face. "I thought that look was from all the work I put in last night and early this morning." He leaned down and kissed her hair. The shower had turned her long, sleek and straight tresses into a mass of loose curls.
Olivia chuckled and climbed onto her husband's body straddling his mid-section. "Both can be true, babe, but this date night won't soon be forgotten."
"Oh yeah?"
"Oh yeah," she answered.
"I'm hungry."
Olivia frowned. "Fitz we had a five course dinner less than six hours ago."
"But the last thing I ate was you."
She blushed then chuckled. "And you did that quite well."
Olivia ground her hips. "I love you, Fitzgerald Grant." She leaned down and kissed his chest, then his cheek. Widening her legs, she maneuvered herself over his large head. Clasping the base of his dick, she lifted herself, bit her lip and slowly sank down onto him, allowing her body to adjust to all of his thick, inches, until he was planted deep inside her. Sighing, she rested her hands on his chest and grinned naughtily at him, ready for another long ride.
XXX
May, Chesapeake…
Fitz reclined on a lounger poolside wearing only a pair of swim trunks, watching his entire world: his wife and his son. He was manning the grill and watching his two favorite people. His eyes were hidden behind the dark lenses of a pair of aviators so she couldn't see him eye fucking her in the bright coral bikini she wore. His dick hardened instantly at the sight of her.
She'd been hesitant about wearing a bikini because of her new body. It was firm and tight, thanks to Joey, and it did look different. But Fitz, always her biggest cheerleader, had reminded her that her body had carried their son, and safely brought him into the world. And without her amazing and strong body, they wouldn't have the honor of being parents to the most beautiful little boy. She'd agreed. What her body had gone through was pure magic, and she vowed to be more kind to herself, and to her body.
The sun was high. But the rays were not as intense as the day was bright. Olivia had swathed them all in sunscreen, and she wore a large hat to protect her from the sun. She was currently standing on the top step just inside the pool, with Cruz in her arms. He was adorable, as usual, in his infant swim trunks and matching rash guard, baby sunglasses and a tiny sun hat.
At almost seven months, Cruz Grant was finally crawling and was all over the place, sitting up by himself and getting into everything. Neither Olivia nor Fitz could believe how much he'd changed their lives. Seeing him grow was their greatest joy. He was a very curious baby and super stubborn, like his father. He loved hearing the sound of his voice, and loved to screech and yell, which is why if he was awake and Olivia was on air, father and son would take a walk around the property, which usually resulted in him falling asleep. Recently he'd begun trying to stand using his parents as leverage.
Fitz chuckled as the baby kept trying to yank his mother's hat from her head.
It was Mother's Day weekend, Olivia's first, and they'd decided to spend it quietly with their son at the Bennett estate in Chesapeake. The previous week and a half had been filled with activities around T.C. Grant's graduation from George Washington University. Several members of the Grant and Bennett families, including Wyatt and Enrique who'd flown in from Barcelona, had descended on D.C. for the event. It was Wyatt's and Enrique's first time meeting Cruz and neither man could get enough of the baby boy.
Constance and JR had hosted a pre-graduation dinner and a post graduation party for their daughter, while Fitz and Olivia hosted a pool party for T.C. and a few of her cousins and friends, which included Ty, who'd flown in from California for the occasion.
After all the celebrating, the couple just wanted to get away. So instead of visiting their mothers, they sent gifts and would FaceTime them on Sunday. Maya and Constance understood their need to spend the day as a family. Olivia was now a mother herself, and Fitz now had a wife.
They'd driven down in Olivia's Mother Day gift: a brand new, mommy friendly, Range Rover. She had been driving Fitz's Cayenne because it was easier to transport their son and his baby essentials, and to get him in and out of the vehicle, and now Fitz wanted it back. She'd had to admit that her beloved, sporty, two-door Audi was a single person's car, and Fitz drove it more than she did. She would decide if she wanted to keep her car later, but for now she was in love with her new SUV, and her husband. She loved the vehicle so much that later that night, after he'd given her the keys and after Cruz was asleep, she'd grabbed the baby monitor and led Fitz into the garage. They'd reclined the driver's seat, she'd climbed onto his lap and they'd christened her new ride. Afterward, they both agreed that the Rover was indeed solid.
Olivia was almost seven months into this mothering thing and as far as Fitz was concerned, she was killing it. She'd confessed to him not long after Cruz was born that she'd never been one to fantasize about being a mother. Growing up, while her friends, Joey included, couldn't wait to get married and become mothers, she couldn't wait to become a lawyer just like her father. Having children had crossed her mind and she knew she eventually wanted them, but she didn't know how she'd be as a mother. Was she even meant to be a mother?
Now that she had Cruz, she couldn't imagine not being a mother. And she couldn't imagine her life without him. He was her joy. He was her happiness. He was her calm. He was her world. He was her everything. Now she knew for sure that she was meant to be a mother; his mother. It was her favorite title, next to wife, and her favorite hat to wear. Cruz Grant had changed her world and given her life new meaning.
Olivia heard her husband's laughter and glanced at him. "Is something funny, husband?"
Fitz shrugged. "I'm just watching you and Mr. Grabby Hands."
She chuckled and turned to climb up the step and out of the pool. "How's the food coming along?" she asked as she walked toward her husband. "I'm hungry."
Fitz stood to his feet as she approached him. He moved Olivia's hat aside and leaned down to kiss her but his attempt was thwarted by his son's tiny hand trying to push him away, causing Olivia to laugh. It wasn't the first time. Cruz was a mama's boy. He loved his father and spent a lot of time with him, but it was always Olivia he wanted when he woke up first thing every morning, when he cried, when he was hungry or when he just wanted to be held. When his mother walked into the room he would practically leap into her arms. Olivia always joked that Cruz would never be in a relationship because no one would ever be good enough. Her sweet boy was so happy and affectionate, and she prayed he'd stay that way.
"So it's okay for you to kiss your mother, but not me?" Fitz jokingly asked his son.
Cruz gave his father a drooling lopsided smile, showing his two little bottom teeth, prompting Olivia to laugh too.
"You know he loves me more," she said and attempted to walk away. "I'm going to go inside and change him."
Fitz swatted her ass.
"Hey!" Olivia turned around, her mouth wide and brows lifted.
"What? Did you think you could walk your sexy ass…"
"Fitz!" she hissed, "little ears."
Fitz sighed, deeply, and asked the question again. "Did you really think you could walk your sexy butt away from me after that comment?"
"You know it's true, Grant. He does love me more."
Fitz grabbed her waist and pulled her against his large, solid body. "Yeah, well, he also looks just like you, but you don't have to rub it in."
"Aww Cruzy, daddy's having a sad" Olivia made a sad face and the baby giggled as if he understood what his mother said, and jumping in her arms. "He's been saying dada for three months now but you haven't heard me complain once."
Fitz laughed. "Okay, okay."
She reached out and ran a hand across her husband's bare chest and he leaned in and took her mouth in a kiss, this time without interference from their son.
"I can never get enough of you, Mrs. Grant," he murmured against her lips.
Olivia moaned and her nipples hardened. She felt Fitz's hand move past her bare, flat and well-toned stomach and slip between her legs.
"Fitz?" she purred.
"Yes, my love."
"I have to change our son."
Fortunately, the Bennett property was private or someone would've gotten an eye full. He caressed her clit in circles with his thumb through her bikini bottom.
"Ohhh…Fitz…I…" she panted. "I have to…" Her chest rose and fell underneath her bandeau bikini top.
Fitz moved to her neck and lightly kissed her then felt a tiny hand on his face again, followed by gums and drool.
"Dada, dada."
He leaned back and looked at his son, and then his wife. They looked at each other, and then burst into loud laughter before kissing their little boy's soft cheeks.
"We've got to work on your timing, bud. Daddy's trying to get lucky."
Olivia laughed and kissed her baby again. "Well he wants a dry diaper," she said glancing up at her husband.
Fitz looked at Olivia with those eyes and she stood on her toes to kiss his chin.
"We'll finish this later," he said, as he grabbed her butt cheek causing her to giggle.
Olivia nodded. "Absolutely. And Daddy's definitely going to get lucky." She kissed him again before turning and sashaying away.
He watched her with a huge grin on his face until she disappeared inside the house.
XXX
June, Nationals Park…
Olivia sat in the owner's suite at National's Park, holding her sleeping son. It was Father's Day, Fitz's first, and all he wanted was to take his son to a baseball game. It didn't matter that he was only eight months old and wouldn't understand what was going on. It was his only request so she relented. Unlike their first outing to a Nationals game, when they were dating, there was no way they were sitting behind home plate with their infant son. The owner's air conditioned suite was perfect on this perfect day.
She stared at her husband as he intently watched the game. He'd shown off their son around the suite and introduced her to the team owner and executives. She'd remembered a few of them from the charity dinner she attended with Fitz on their first date. She smiled thinking about how their day had begun. She'd given him his first Father's Day gift before they'd even left their bed, and Fitz still wore a satisfied smile when she walked back into their bedroom carrying a lap tray. He stared when the robe she wore gave him a glimpse of her bare legs with each step she took.
"What's this?" he asked.
"Breakfast," she replied.
Fitz raised a brow and smiled. "For me?"
"Of course for you, silly. Happy Father's Day. Now sit up so I can put this down."
He grinned excitedly while Olivia placed the tray across his lap. She'd prepared his favorites.
"Thank you, Livvie."
She kissed his cheek. "You're welcome. I'm going to get our son so he can give you your gifts." They could see Cruz on the monitor playing quietly with Bubby, but knew it wouldn't be long before he loudly let them know that he was awake. "I'll be right back."
Olivia had thought long and hard about what to get Fitz for his first Father's Day, but couldn't come up with anything. What did you get the man who had everything? It was Joey who told her that the gift was supposed to be from Cruz, not her, and that Fitz would love any gift from his son. She'd reminded her bestie that her husband had gifted her with a brand new SUV for Mother's Day.
"Liv, it's not about how much money you spend. Fitz bought that SUV for you because he was tired of you driving his. And if you wanted to reciprocate with a new car, you could."
Olivia chuckled, nodding. "True."
"Just think about what he'd like to receive from Cruzy."
Olivia had listened to Joey and ordered several, mostly cheesy, gifts that she knew her husband would like. After all, it was the thought that counted. She had, however, contacted her guy Eddie at her favorite wine shop in DuPont Circle and he informed her that he'd received a few rare bottles of Macallan Thirty Year Old Fine Oak Single Malt Scotch. The price tag was close to eight thousand dollars per bottle, and she'd never paid that much for a bottle of wine, but her husband was worth it, and more. He could add it to his collection.
Fitz loved all the gifts that "Cruz" had given him, of course, and he was currently wearing his favorite: a t-shirt with World's Best Dad and Cruz's tiny handprints printed across the front. He'd become emotional when he opened it. Leaning over their son, who was busy playing with the wrapping paper, he'd kissed his wife and thanked her for such thoughtful and meaningful gifts, and thanked his son for making him a daddy.
Olivia smiled to herself. For the last eight months it had been such a joy watching her husband become a father. He was so attentive, loving, playful and affectionate with their son. The look in his eyes and the smile on his face when he looked at Cruz always melted her heart. And seeing Cruz smile whenever his father was around or when he heard his voice was priceless. He may have been a mama's boy but he loved his silly daddy too.
He'd made becoming a first time mom a lot easier for her. When she was having a difficult time nursing Cruz, he been encouraging and bottle fed their son until she became comfortable enough to nurse him. When she fumbled changing their newborn's diaper when he was days old, and although he'd only learned at the hospital, he changed as many diapers as he could before Elise took over. Even during the rare times she couldn't seem to get Cruz to sleep, Fitz was always there, ready to do whatever it took to get him to settle down. He was a great dad and she was so grateful and thankful for him and all that he did for their family. She loved him so.
Feeling her eyes on him, Fitz turned to look at his wife. She was staring at him. He stood and walked over to where she was sitting with their son on her lap.
"You okay?"
Olivia nodded.
"Are you sure?"
"I am so happy, Fitz. I love you," she said caressing his cheek.
He kissed her lips, and then leaned down and kissed his son's soft curls. "I love you both." He looked around the suite wishing they were home. "The game's almost over. If we leave now, we'll beat the crowd, and the autograph and selfie seekers."
Olivia was happy to hear those words. They were expected at the Julian and Joey's for Sunday dinner. Julian was grilling for the dads, Eli and Fitz, for Father's Day. Joey and Maya were preparing the side dishes, and Olivia needed to stop and pick up the dessert she'd ordered. She started packing their things while Fitz made the rounds to say goodbye to their hosts. When he finished, he returned to wife and lifted his still sleeping son into his arms. Olivia stood and he placed an arm around her waist, and together they followed security out of the suite and down to the VIP parking lot.
Today was a good day, she thought.
XXX
They were now in the heart of the summer season and spent a lot of time with their close-knit group of family and friends. Whenever they had a chance, Joey and Julian, Jada and Dre, and Lauren and Drew, were always ready for a meal, a few drinks and lively conversation at the Grant home in Great Falls. Tracee and Victor had relocated back to their hometown of Detroit, where he was now playing for the home team. They shared lunches and dinners at one another's home, and the Grants and Cruzes always brought their children along. Almost two-year-old India adored Cruz, and he loved running after her in his walker.
XXX
Fitz took on the task of planning their first wedding anniversary vacation because Olivia was busy. He knew that whatever he came up with, she was not going to leave their son, and he'd assured her Cruz would be joining his parents. When Wyatt and Enrique heard they were planning a vacation, they immediately invited the couple to come to Barcelona. They were going to be there anyway for Wyatt and Enrique's wedding, where Fitz would serve as best man for his brother, the first week of August, why not come two weeks early and vacation on the Spanish Mediterranean? Olivia and Fitz knew those two didn't care what they had planned, they just wanted to get their hands on Cruz. They'd also offered to babysit while Cruz's parents hit the town. Naturally, the couple took them up on their offer.
They spent the next few weeks preparing for their vacation. Olivia shopped a lot and Fitz reminded her that there were many boutiques where they were going, she didn't need to do all her shopping stateside. He didn't realize that she needed two months of clothing for a three and half week trip. Olivia warned him that she'd probably need to buy new luggage to bring her purchases home. Fitz just laughed. He didn't care. Almost four weeks on the Mediterranean was just what his wife needed. It was all about her. He owed her.
XXX
July, Barcelona…
Fitz didn't know which was better: their trip to the Maldives, their honeymoon in Anguilla or Barcelona. He, Olivia and their son spent almost four weeks in Europe. They had a villa not too far from Wyatt and Enrique, complete with a chef and housekeeper. During the day, they toured Barcelona and the small towns surrounding the city, where Olivia collected a few bottles of Spanish wines, and had dinner with the guys each evening. They did take them up on their offer to babysit and went out to dinner and dancing two nights during their first week. After a week, the family made their way to Vilanova Grand Marina where they boarded the yacht Fitz had rented for ten days. They would be sailing to Ibiza, Spain, Monte Carlo, Monaco, St. Tropez, France and finally the Amalfi coast before returning to Barcelona just in time for four days of wedding festivities.
Olivia's parents, and Joey and Julian would be arriving before they returned. Enrique and Joey were thick as thieves and he absolutely insisted that she and her husband, along with her in-laws, attend his wedding. Cruz's grandparents, GG, Poppy, Lovey and Pop-Pop would all be available to babysit.
During their ten day sailing holiday, the couple spent their days diving off the yacht, swimming in the sea, feasting on wonderful food, eating what they wanted when they wanted, meeting interesting people at each port and enjoying their baby boy. Although Cruz was asleep for seventy-five percent of their vacation, he still had a good time.
They laughed and talked about really mundane things such as whether they should get a dog. Fitz, said 'yes,' and Olivia said 'maybe.' They debated the merits of pet ownership. He had been hounding her about a dog since they found out she was pregnant with Cruz. He wanted their baby to grow up with a pet, but Olivia was adamant about getting their child a dog when he or she could help take care of it. Olivia won the debate but promised they would revisit the topic again after their child was at least a year old. Their days were filled with activities but each evening they watched magnificent sunsets over the Mediterranean from the deck of their yacht.
Olivia shopped in Monte Carlo and St. Tropez. Fortunately, they were flying home on the Bennett jet because the baggage fees on a commercial airline would have been outrageous, because Olivia had given her Centurion card a serious workout.
At night, they had dance parties for two on the boat's deck, with the salt and wind blowing in their hair, and made love under the stars while their son slept. Since Fitz's retirement, they were having lots of sex…lots of good, crazy sex. The kind of sex they'd had when they first started dated. They covered as many surfaces on the yacht as they could.
As training camp approached, the first since Fitz's retirement, Olivia couldn't help but think about how different everything was. All the blood, sweat, and tears. The dedication. The injuries. The early mornings, the long days and the late evenings. The weight training, film sessions and rehab. Being away from family. The criticism. The wins, The losses. The good games. The bad games. The good plays. The bad plays. He'd accomplished so much: League MVP, Super Bowl MVP and All-Pro honors ten of his twelve years in the league. Not many people had his NFL resume. And now it was all over. She knew it was on his mind, but he never mentioned it, and neither did she. It was weird to her that here it was, the end of July, and football wasn't at the forefront of their lives. No training camp to prepare for and no Wives Club meetings on the calendar. She was beginning to really love this new post football life.
Day eight of their cruise, they were lounging on the double lounge on the after deck. It was late, almost midnight, and the crew had dropped anchor and had turned in for the night. They'd put their son to bed and could see him a few feet away on the baby monitor. Olivia rested between Fitz's legs, her back to his chest. The sound of the seas water lapping against the side of the yacht had almost lulled her to sleep.
"As around the sun the earth knows she's revolving," Fitz sang softly, his deep voice carrying in the quiet night.
Olivia chuckled and joined him. "And the rosebuds know to bloom in early May."
"Just as hate knows love's the cure," he hugged her closer.
"You can rest your mind assure," she sang.
"That I'll be loving you always." They finished together before bursting into soft laughter.
"Happy First Anniversary, Livvie," he said, leaning down to kiss her neck. "We survived our first year."
Olivia couldn't believe it, but it was true. They'd been married for one year, and they had a beautiful son.
"Happy First Anniversary, babe," she said softly, smiling at him over her shoulder then snuggling deeper into his arms.
"It's hard to believe it's been a year," Fitz commented.
"Time flies, huh?" she said, squeezing the arms wrapped around her waist.
"It really does," Fitz answered, kissing her curls. "Who would've thought we'd be here, together."
"Together for life," she added.
"You're the best thing that's ever happened to me, Olivia Pope Grant, next to our son being born."
It was a fact.
"You're my person, Livvie. You're my wife, and my best friend."
"You don't have to flatter me, Grant. I already said yes and we have a nine month old."
Fitz's laugh was loud and Olivia felt the vibrations against her back.
"That is exactly why I need to flatter you. I don't want you to ever have any regrets."
Olivia shook her head. "Never baby. Not for one second."
"I hope it's been everything you dreamed of."
"It's been more. Marrying you was the best decision I've ever made, Fitz." She was even more in love with Fitzgerald Thomas Grant, III now than she was a year ago.
He never got tired of hearing of her say that.
"Thank you for this vacation."
"From the moment I met you I knew there was nothing I wouldn't do for you, Livvie."
She smiled tightly, thinking of their first meeting, and the hard time she'd given him. But Fitz had slowly chipped away at the protective wall she'd built around her heart, and she'd overcome her fears, and the assumptions she had about the man she thought he was. She was so grateful that she'd finally given herself freely to him. This man was a constant source of infinite love and patience, and he'd stolen her heart.
"I love you, Fitz." She wriggled her ass against him suggestively, and Fitz groaned then lifted her as if she weighed nothing at all. He turned her around so that she was now straddling his lap, facing him. Sliding his arms around her waist, he kissed her, a long, sweet, slow, deep kiss.
After what felt like forever, but never long enough, Olivia broke the kiss and wrapped her arms around Fitz's thick neck.
"Fitz there's no one I'd rather do life and raise a son with. Thank you for loving me the way you do. I love you, and I love the beautiful family we've created. I can't wait to see what year two brings us."
Fitz grinned. "Maybe a sibling for Cruz."
Olivia leaned back in his arms to see if he was joking. He wasn't. "You cannot be serious, Fitz."
"Oh I'm very serious, Livvie."
"Really? Now?"
He nodded. "I want a little girl."
"Are you crazy? Cruz is almost ten months old, and we've gotten through the really hard part of the first year. He's been sleeping through the night for months, taking steps trying to be more independent, and he doesn't want to nurse as much anymore."
Olivia thought more about the latter. Breastfeeding was one of the most difficult parts of her motherhood journey. The scheduling, staying hydrated, eating healthy, being hungry every few seconds, waking up to pump, cracked and bleeding nipples. It was hard even with her husband's support. Fitz was the pump cleaner and he did it multiple times per day. Of course she was sad when Cruz seemed to be less and less interested before he turned one, although he still wanted his pacifier, but she was also happy to have her body back. They were both ready to move on.
"I know, Livvie. I just miss the days when he needed us much more."
Olivia did too, but she wasn't sure having another baby was the answer. Those first few weeks were hard, filled with lots of tears, late nights, little sleep, unbalanced hormones, and a few breakdowns. But they'd made it and it made them stronger, as individuals, as a couple and as parents. She was really surprised by her husband's sudden baby fever.
"He will always need us, Fitz. But we've finally hit a groove."
"Wouldn't it be better to do it now than wait a couple of years when we're both involved in our careers? Right now, I have a group that's putting together the infrastructure for Grant Investments, but I'm taking my time going full-time, and the team at the Grant Foundation doesn't really need me every day. I love being home with my son."
He studied the look on his wife's face. She wasn't ready. He pulled her back into his arms. "Okay, you're not ready." He looked directly into her eyes. "But when you are ready, Mrs. Grant, I'm putting my daughter in your belly," he growled.
Olivia laughed. "Fitz, shut up and kiss me please."
"I mean it, Livvie."
"I know you do, now kiss me."
He did more than kiss her.
XXX
When Fitz and Olivia returned to Barcelona they were relaxed, tanned and a few pounds heavier. It was nice to be back on land after ten days at sea. They checked into their room at Masia Casa del Mar, a seaside villa the grooms had rented out for the week of festivities, culminating in their wedding ceremony Saturday evening.
Their parents were happy to finally see them. Well, they were happier to see Cruz, and the couple hadn't seen their son much since they'd arrived at the villa and his T found out he was in the building.
That evening at dinner they'd been surprised by the anniversary meal prepared for them. They'd all been seated at a long table overlooking the sea with their families. With a tap of his knife on the champagne glass in front of him, JR Grant asked for everyone's attention. He stood and glanced at his son, beautiful daughter-in-law and his grandson, who was busy pushing bits of food around on the tray of the high chair he was sitting in.
"Fitz and Olivia, you both know I had my doubts when you first started dating but Olivia quickly and eloquently told me what she thought about my doubts and opinions. Thank goodness she did." Everyone laughed. "I am happy to say that you've proved me wrong time and time again. Your love is strong and continues to stand the test of time."
He grinned at his grandson. "And you've given us a beautiful grandson to love and spoil."
The group laughed again, most nodding their heads.
"I know I speak for everyone here when I say that we couldn't be happier for you both. Cheers. We love you," JR said, his voice now filled with emotion.
Everyone raised their glasses toward Fitz and Olivia Grant, to toast their first wedding anniversary.
XXX
That night, Fitz and Olivia lay on a chaise lounge on the lanai outside their room. Everyone else had gone into the city to dance the night away, and left the couple at peace. Cruz was spending the night with Lovey and Pop Pop, giving his parents some alone time. Eli had joked that his wife had left him for another man, and he didn't stand a chance of getting her back. Cruz was now the man, and he, her husband, was no longer her number one. Everyone got a good laugh, but they also knew it was true.
Olivia snuggled closer to her husband. "Today was perfect, babe, and tonight was beautiful. It was great having everyone there for dinner, though I didn't expect an anniversary dinner. I mean, we're here to celebrate Wyatt and Enrique, but they wanted to celebrate us."
Fitz kissed her cheek. "I agree, though I am enjoying having you to myself tonight. I plan to have my way with you later."
"Oh really? And just what will you be doing with me later, mister?"
He leaned down and whispered near her ear, and she blushed at his words.
Fitz chuckled softly. "I didn't think I could still make you blush. I wonder what else I can say to get this type of reaction from you."
Olivia squeezed his muscular thigh. "I guess we'll have to try a few things and find out."
He kissed her cheek again. "I am the luckiest man in the world to have such an amazing wife. If I had to do this life with anyone, Livvie, I would choose you over and over again."
Olivia's heart fluttered and her eyes filled with tears. "Me too, baby, me too."
Fitz helped her to her feet and then stood from the lounge, looking down at her. "Come on. I have something for you."
Olivia blushed again and Fitz raised his eyebrows suggestively. "That too, but I have a surprise.
"Fitz, you've done enough already," she protested.
He gave her that grin. "The sky's the limit for you, Livvie." Pulling her body back against the wall of his chest, he wrapped his arms around her waist and slowly walked her inside their room.
XXX
Over the next four days, Fitz and Olivia gradually got their land legs back. Their equilibrium adjusted to land and soon they were back to normal, and were able to join the wedding festivities. Each night ended with more food, more drinks, cigars and dancing, and they fell into bed after three each morning. Thank God for the grandparents.
By Saturday, they were ready to get through the ceremony and head home to the United States.
The wedding took place on a small terrace perched on the sea, and it was very cinematic. The wedding party, which included T.C., and Enrique's two sisters, made their way down the aisle, followed two groomsmen, Fitz, and then the grooms, who were both escorted by their parents. Olivia's eyes were on her handsome husband. Their eyes met and he winked and blew her a kiss, causing her to chuckle.
"Aww," she heard Joey say next to her, but Olivia paid her no attention as she continued to stare at her husband's tight ass as he continued down the aisle. Cruz stirred in his sleep and she looked down at her sleeping baby, sucking on the pacifier in his mouth. The "honorary" ring bearer and his mother had almost missed the ceremony. They'd had a time most of the day because Cruz Grant was teething again and had been super fussy from the moment he'd opened his eyes that morning. He wouldn't allow his mother to put him down, wanting only to be held. He cried when his father, his T, his grandparents, or anyone else tried to hold him. He'd been inconsolable, standing in the portable crib, as his parents tried to get ready for the ceremony. He wanted Olivia then he didn't want Olivia.
As Fitz was about to leave he cried for him to hold him, which he did for about fifteen minutes before he had to go. He kicked and screamed, then spilled the contents of his sippy cup on his mother, and down the front of the white, bowtie tuxedo shirt onesie, complete with suspenders, he was wearing underneath a light blue seersucker jacket. Then he kicked off his tiny little soft bottom loafers, not happy to be wearing them at all which is why he was currently barefoot and wearing a one piece tuxedo onesie. Olivia had finally settled him down long enough with a bottle, and mercifully, he fell asleep. She then changed and they made it just before his father and the rest of the wedding party walked down the aisle.
Holding hands, Wyatt and Enrique lovingly gazed into each other's eyes. It had taken them longer to get here than expected, but finally, here they were.
As beautiful as the evening was, Fitz and Olivia were grateful they were headed home to Virginia early Monday morning.
TBC