Chapter 17

The driver had just dropped them off at Olivia's condo. Fitz was pleased to know that she was living in an upscale neighborhood and that access was only through a locked gate. He had long lived behind walls and gates because of his mother being rich and famous. It had later become a way of life for him because of his own consequences and notoriety as a lawyer of the stars and the son of Gabriella Garnier. He was now one of them in his own right. He mingled and led his life amongst his peers.

As his week with Olivia had unfolded, they were talking everyday about themselves. They spoke of their lives, their plans, their hopes, and dreams. They were planning for a future, together. Their lives would become blended. The Grant family had a security team for as long as he could remember. It increased over the years as his mother became more famous and the family acquired more wealth. It was a priority and necessity his grandfather had said. It was a part of their lives. Wealth had its perks. Olivia was becoming part of his family. She would have to be protected.

The driver that had dropped them off was part of the Grant security team. The security team numbered around one-hundred-twenty strong. There was always a contingent available to ensure the safety of the family members no matter where they were. Because of the nature of the family business, Gabriella's profession, and the number of homes they owned; the size of the team wasn't that unusual. Someone was always at a property if the family was in residence. Normally there would have been minimum a three-man team with him on a solo trip.

This trip was different. He didn't want anyone in the cabin but he and Olivia. He had wanted privacy. Sometimes the rules were stretched. It had been done it before. To date there hadn't been any notable threats to the family. Nonetheless, the Grant family still maintained the security team. They had the money so why not?

All of the Grant drivers were part of the security team. They were armed and dangerous. If you presented any danger to the Grant family you would see just dangerous! The team didn't present themselves as ordinary security or body guards. They were part of the woodwork. An example of that would be the Captain and First Officer on their flight last night. They were part of the team. Two people that worked in his office were part of the team. McKinley, the driver down in the Caymans was part of the team. No matter where a family member would be, part of the team was there! Being protected, always being on guard in situations you couldn't control was a way of life for people like the Grants.

He hadn't touched on this particular subject with Olivia yet. Perhaps he should have brought it up earlier but he was reluctant to put too much on her plate. He didn't want to insinuate that loving him meant that her life and living arrangements as she knew them would have to change, but of course it did. This gated community and the one in Atlanta offered a small element of security but nowhere near the amount required for the woman he had claimed for himself.

Fitz was almost certain Olivia was going to find what he would eventually propose as invasive. And it would be. Once their relationship became public knowledge everything would be different. They could at best keep this thing under wraps for maybe a couple of months with the Grant advantage. He was an internationally known figure. A lot of his life was played out in the tabloids and on television. He had nothing to hide and he led his life above board.

Olivia was young but she was a strong woman. She had declared her independence and was preparing to lead her best life as a single woman of means. Now that she had Fitzgerald Grant as her boyfriend that wasn't any longer the case. As the said boyfriend, he was again hesitant to rock the boat. He loved her and he needed to make sure she was protected. Hopefully Olivia would understand that and not assume he was attempting to take over her life. To be honest he would prefer to purchase a home for her that would be more secure. He would prefer a single unit with a perimeter that could be guarded and entry into it would be limited. That was standing operating procedure for he and his family.

Olivia seemed so eager to share her place with him. It had been what he was hoping for and she had suggested it herself. He was going to move in. What would she think if he broached the subject so quickly of the need for a more secure location? It was on his mind but for the most part he was happy at where they were. Olivia has asked him to share space with her and that was a good thing! He wouldn't expect her to sell her place, that wasn't the point. He just wanted her safe!

They had just walked up the steps of her condo and she was punching in the entry codes. She was looking back at him smiling. He had Olivia's single bag and the one bag he placed some clothing and other things he would need for the couple of days he expected to spent here. He would leave for New York on Sunday night. He was going to set up a small workspace to be able to handle any business he needed to transact. Olivia would be in class starting tomorrow. His main job was to be a supportive boyfriend when she came in from classes for the next two days. He was sure he could do that.

"Welcome to my place Fitz. Come in and make yourself at home. Let's take the bags to the master suite and I'll show you around. It's straight down the hallway. We'll start there and make our way back up here."

"It's late Olivia. This could wait until tomorrow. I would love to see the house but I know you have classes early tomorrow morning. I promise I will be here when you return."

"I know that Fitz. For some reason I want to show it to you now. It's going to be a very short tour I assure you. I do need to get some sleep and be ready for tomorrow. Come on I promise to be quick."

The master suite was large. It centered around a king-sized bed and the usual accessories. There was a matching chest of drawers and a mirrored dresser. There was a perhaps a forty-five or fifty-inch television on the wall. There was a recliner in the room and there was a separate area that appeared to be made into a study area. Medical books were everywhere. There were human images and charts on the walls. She had a huge walk-in closet and a very nice sized master bath. It had a jacuzzi tub and shower.

There were two other bedrooms upstairs. Olivia showed him the empty room that he could make-over into an office or there was a smaller room in the basement that he could consider. There was a large bathroom in the hallway. Both extra bedrooms had direct access to it. Her kitchen was very nice and spacious with top-of-the-line appliances and granite counter tops. Olivia told him she rarely spent any time in the kitchen which extended into a large modern great room. There was a massive floor to ceiling fireplace in the room. There was a small dining area with a beautiful dining set and banquet cabinet between the kitchen and the great room. Down in the basement was a finished family style room, two other rooms, a bath, and a dedicated storage area. There it was done!

Olivia shared all the entry codes and alarm passwords with Fitz. She also gave him a key just in case he forgot anything. She didn't keep a lot of food in the house. He could find some limited things to eat she was sure but she also provided him with her take-out and delivery list for restaurants in the area. There was plenty of popcorn and wine though. She finished the tour and asked him if he needed anything. He didn't.

"Let's go to bed Olivia. You have a long day tomorrow and I will be busy as well. We've had a momentous day. It was an adventurous day and I loved every minute of it. You made my heart soar at 30,000 feet tonight, Olivia. It was wonderful what we shared. Thank-you for a most enjoyable ride home."

"Thank-you Fitz for bringing me home in such splendid fashion. I loved every minute of it too. It was an extraordinary flight and a very tiring one. It's almost two o'clock and I need to get up in about four hours to be on campus before eight. What are your plans for today?"

"I intend to set up that mini office just as we discussed. Which room do you suggest I take Olivia? I hate to move into one of your upstairs rooms when I could easily go downstairs to the basement."

"The choice is yours. I would prefer having you upstairs though. I would like you to be nearby. As you can see, I have my study area in my bedroom. There's actually a sliding door that can seal that area off from the bedroom proper. It's just large enough to suit my needs. When Darcie and my mother would come to visit, my late-night studying could be annoying. I had it installed my first year here. It's very convenient. I promise not to disturb you at night."

"And I promise not to disturb you. Very smartly done Olivia. I love the entire place. I never imagined that this place was so large. You have a lovely home, Olivia. You have it decorated like something from House Magazine. You moved into this place your first year?"

"I did. Once I was accepted Uncle Jim told me what my graduation gift would be if I wanted it. I was overjoyed. I can actually walk to the campus if I'm in the mood and have time. Most of the time I drive because of the weather. I have a Nissan SUV in the garage. The weather can be brutal here but believe it or not I sort of felt in love with the place. My original intention was to return here and practice medicine. I love this house. My godfather's largesse has proven to be most generous."

"Your Uncle Jim is definitely a wonderful godparent. He takes the role very seriously. He's done his part to make your life easier. I have nothing but kind words for him. I'm thankful for him in more ways than one. When I see him again, I plan to let him know."

"You're right. Uncle Jim is a gem. I wouldn't trade him for anything. He has long been my father figure and even more so right now. We can expect his continued support Fitz."

"That's great news Olivia. I like having family in our corner. Now let's get ready for bed and we are only going to sleep Olivia. You have school tomorrow, early."

"Don't I know it. I'm so happy for these extended days with you. You can't possibly know what it means to me."

"But I do. Two more days with you will extend my heaven on earth. Undress and come to bed. Let me hold you. You have your alarm set or do I need to do it?"

"I've already taken care of it."

Fitz had gotten naked and was underneath the covers holding them up for Olivia to get in beside him. She undressed quickly and cozied up beside him. She loved being wrapped in his arms. They had indulged their lust in up the skies. It was a night to remember. They were both sexually sated and replete. Sleep was obviously the next step. She turned on her side and nestled up close. He wrapped her in his embrace and sighed. This was where she belonged!

"I love you Olivia, goodnight."

"I love you too. I'm so glad you are here."

Within minutes they both were sound asleep. They were safe and secure in their love.

Meanwhile back in the Caymans Thomas Pope had literally worn a hole in the carpet in his study. He had only grown more furious as the day went on. He had no idea where his wife was. He had finally called around. Her sisters hadn't heard a word from her. He wouldn't call his no-good children. He was through with them! His entire family had deserted him. He had given them everything and this is what he got, an empty house! He was livid. He was especially angry with Tessa. She had cultivated all of this. If she had been a better wife and mother none of this would've happened.

He had been thinking of calling Jimmy for the last hour. He was hesitating to call him because he didn't want him to know she had left him. Jimmy had told him time and time again that one day Tessa was going to get tired of his shenanigans and leave him. He hadn't believed him. She had everything a woman could want. Only a fool would walk away from what he had given her. She had a home, wealth, and prestige. He had given her children. Even though they both had now disparaged them, he had given them to her because he knew that she wanted them. Of course, he had wanted a son like all men did. All women wanted a home, children, and wealth. Tessa had all these things yet she had walked out. Was the woman crazy?

It was long after midnight but he had made up his mind. He was going to call Jim and ask him to put out some feelers. He wanted to know where Tessa was. If her sisters weren't housing her, where was she? He had called the local hotels that she would inhabit. Nothing! No one registered under Pope or her maiden name was registered anywhere. There weren't any boats traveling anywhere this time of night! Where was she?

She wouldn't have gone to Jimmy. He was his friend not hers. Still, he may have heard or seen something. He would call him and ask for his help.

"Hi buddy. I'm so sorry to be calling after midnight. I'm at the end of my rope right now. I had no choice. Something has happened."

Jim was up in his office when the phone rang. Why was Thomas Pope calling him this time of night? Actually, it was early morning. Had something happened to Olivia? Had he misjudged the character of Fitzgerald Grant? His heart caught in his chest. If he had been wrong about the man. He took a deep breath and answered the phone.

"Hello. Is Olivia okay?

"Hi Jim, sorry to call so late. No, it's not Olivia. It's Tessa."

Again, his heart caught in his chest. He was afraid to take a breath. Tessa? What in God's name had happened to her? If that son of a bitch had hurt her again, he wasn't going to be responsible for whatever befell the fool. Enough was enough. If he didn't want the woman, let her go! He was finally able to take a deep breath. He attempted to compose himself. He tried to hide the tremors in his voice.

"What about Tessa? What has happened to her?"

"She left me. That's what happened. The foolish woman packed a bag and walked out of this house. She defied me. She talked trash to me to my face. She sided with my own flesh and blood against me. As you know Olivia has decided to sow her wild oats. She is openly cavorting with the American. I had to throw Olivia out of here. She refuses to listen to reason and has brought shame upon this house. She has obviously tasted passion with that idiot from America. She doesn't have a lick of sense at this point. Olivia has left for America with him.

To add injury to insult the man came to my house. He admitted he's sleeping with Olivia. He is using my daughter and he was very brazen about it. This has been a bad day for me old friend. I simply knew no one else to call. Then for Tessa to walk out on me. I had thought to give her a chance to cool down. She wasn't herself. She was furious with me for putting Olivia out I suppose, but the girl has to learn. Tessa sided with Olivia. I don't believe her attitude. She acted as I had never seen her before. Tessa is a weak unpredictable woman. I should've never allowed her to leave here. I'm uncomfortable not knowing where she is. I need to find my wife!"

So, Tessa had walked out on the fool. And he doesn't even have enough sense to see why! He has caused the woman to lose two children. He doesn't even understand what he's done. The woman is no doubt devastated to now lose Olivia after Tommy's defection years ago. He imagined that Tessa was very hurt and very alone. He suspected Olivia was Tessa's rock in her very troubled marriage. Without her last child in residence things could've fallen completely apart. Thomas and his years of infidelity and mistreatment of Tessa had to have taken a toll on the woman. However, he never in any stretch of the imagination expected Tessa to leave Thomas. He must not be telling the full story!

"What happened Thomas? What did you do to her? There has to be more to the story. Did you hurt Tessa in some way other than to force her children from under your roof? Did you hurt her physically?"

"What are you saying Jimmy? I don't abuse women! You know I would never hurt Tessa! I wouldn't harm a hair on her head. We had a disagreement is all. We quarreled about Olivia and her involvement with the American. She and Olivia believe it is some sort of love match when in reality it is nothing more than a flesh pounding event. The man is in lust and Olivia accommodated him. End of story! Maybe I was harsh in my truthful interpretation of this mess but I couldn't allow Olivia to talk to me the way she did. I'm her father. As such she will respect me in my own home. And so will my wife. That's the gist of what happened nothing more!"

Of course, there was more and Jim knew it. Thomas Pope was lord of the castle on Overton Place and he lay siege to all that lived there. Olivia defied him and he threw her out the same as he had done with Tommy. Both of his children had decided to defy him and love whom they chose. There was a price to pay for that. Tessa had stood by when Thomas threw Tommy out. Perhaps she wasn't standing for the same treatment of Olivia. Hopefully that was the case.

Once before Tessa had walked out on her husband but for different reasons. He had been abusing her emotionally for years with his affairs. As for physical abuse, he could only attest to that one instance. That was the night she had come to him with her pain and sorrow. He knew what Thomas Pope was capable of. The man thought everyone was a fool but himself!

"Are you sure about that Thomas? Maybe you struck her in anger and she left. You can be highly volatile when pushed. Maybe you didn't mean to hurt her?"

"Nonsense! I didn't touch the woman. In fact, I tried very hard to smooth things out between us. I wanted to work things out between us the old-fashioned way, but she rebuffed me. She refused the advances of her husband. This is the outcome of allowing the values of other countries to overwhelm us. In my own home my wife and children disrespect me. Tessa couldn't see that what we have now is only each other.

Tommy and Olivia are both adults. They have made very poor choices. Both of them have left their home of their own free will. They left us behind. Tessa and I should pull together in our grief over losing both of our children to wicked people from the United States. I pointed that out to her but she was too angry to see it at the time. I decided to let her walk away but I have thought better of that decision. Tessa hasn't any idea how to survive on her own. I need to find her!"

Thomas Pope was lying of course. He had done something egregious to Tessa for her to leave him. Years ago, he had been about to go and find Thomas Pope and if not outright kill him, he had intended to beat him within an inch of his life for his mistreatment of Tessa. Her face had been reddened with the imprint of his hand and her arm had been bruised. He had abused her plain and simple. She had stopped him and begged him not to go. He wasn't worth it she had said. She had taken his hand and entwined it with his and asked him to stay with her.

Did Thomas really believe he wasn't responsible for both of his children in the wind? Did he not realize what a woman would feel with both of her children gone from her? Did he not think she wouldn't hold him responsible for it? What a fool the man was.

He had yet to interfere directly in the Thomas Pope mess but he was about to. If he had hurt Tessa again the man would pay. Olivia and Tommy had made the right choices. They had left rather than be under the dictates of a tyrant. Olivia had made it plain she was choosing Fitzgerald Grant as her mate. As her godfather he would stand by her and support her. He wouldn't stood by Tessa and supported her as well if she would've let him!

"Let Tessa be Thomas. She left you for a reason. You and I both know there is more to the story than you are telling. You kicked her last child out of your home. How did you think she was going to react? Did you think she would be happy about that? You have blown up over the affairs of your daughter who is a grown woman with ridiculous dictates. Did you honestly believe Olivia would allow you to run her life? If you did, you don't know your daughter very well. And as for your wife, did you think you could continue to put her under this type of emotion upheaval without repercussions? Tessa is a mother that loves her children and because of you they are both gone!

Think about that Thomas. Tommy and Olivia both gone from this island because of you. Couple that with the fact that you are screwing anything on this island that moves and everyone knows about it, including Tessa. Why wouldn't she leave you? You are abrasive and inconsiderate of the woman. You obviously haven't any respect for her or love for her to treat her as you have. Perhaps your wife simply tired of her situation."

"Now wait a minute! I called you as a friend for help with this unfortunate time in my life and you turn the table over on me? You see me as the villain of this piece? Olivia is hanging onto the arms of an international playboy she met a little over a week ago, playing whore to his Lothario and my wife is okay with that? Yet, she refuses to join me in the marital bed! You want me to praise Tessa for that and for encouraging our daughter to demean herself? That isn't the role of a wife nor a mother. I was right to criticize Tessa for her behavior.

As for state of my marriage you know what is going on because I told you. You know why I'm a patron at Bellehaven! Tessa is a cold fish between the sheets. She has given me permission to step away from my vows to appease my sexual needs. She can't help her aversion to sex. That's on her plate. A man has needs!"

"Whatever Thomas. I haven't any desire to discuss with you where you plant your wick. That's your business. I think that if Tessa is as understanding as you seem to think she is, she will return to your happy little home and your bed on Overton Place. If all is as you say, she will cool down and return to you. It shouldn't take her longer that a day to decide that your marriage is strong and her kids aren't ever coming back to her house. I for one want no part in this charade of yours. I didn't like what you did to Tommy and now you've done the same damned thing to Olivia. It also sounds like to me you pushed your wife a step too far. I can't help you Tommy in this regard."

"You are saying you won't use your resources and connections to help me find my wife? As my friend for all of my life this is what you are saying? You won't lift a finger to help me?

"That's exactly what I'm saying. Goodbye Thomas!"

Jim hung up the phone with his heart about to beat out of his chest. Where in the hell was Tessa? He scrolled through his messages, recent calls, missed calls and there was nothing. He had the same damned number he had when she called him twenty-four years ago. If she wanted to call him, she wouldn't have. He ran his hand through his braids and pulled them from the hair band that held them.

Would she come to him again? He had thrown an expensive Lladro vase against the door when she had walked away from him years ago. He had screamed at her that he wouldn't have her if she returned to her husband. She had walked on and his heart had nearly broken into again. The first time she had broken his heart as he watched her say vows to his best friend. He thought a third time would possibly fatally wound him!

Of course, he could find Tessa if he wanted to possibly in a matter of hours, but he wasn't going to. He was going to stay of out of her marriage. In fact, he was going to stay away from Tessa Pope. Yes, he still loved her probably more than he ever did. She would have to choose him this time. She would have to come to him and she would have to make herself plain.

Thomas Pope his lifetime friend was a fool. He had stepped aside and let him have her. In the interim Thomas had had made a mockery of his marriage and dishonored Tessa on so many levels. He had watched it all from the sidelines. Their elaborate wedding thirty years later was still the talk of this island. He had watched her marry him feeling pity for himself. He watched her belly become large with children that should have been his. He had loved her children as if they were his own because they had come from her body.

He had watched her suffer in silent humiliation as Thomas Pope cavorted all over this island fucking the young and the old. Hell, he had even leased and discounted the man a permanent set-up for his trysts. Of course, Tessa knew what he had done. She had called him out on it. Was he punishing her for not choosing him? He didn't know exactly why he had done it. Had he been hoping that one day Tessa Pope would see that she had married the wrong man?

He needed to get a grip and try to plot a reasonable course in this mess. He knew what he wanted to do but it wasn't feasible or reasonable for that matter. Stand down Jimmy and wait! There wasn't any way he could get to sleep now. He may as well get up and start his day. He was going to call Olivia later this morning. Surely Tessa had contacted her. At least he would know that she was safe and he could breathe freely again.

Olivia's alarm went off. It was six-thirty. She was locked securely in the arms of the man she loved. He was here with her in Cambridge and he was moving in with her. It wasn't a complete move in but he was going to come here and be with her whenever he could. And she was going to be so grateful. She was going to spend as much time with him as she possibly could and remain a viable medical student. They would be fine. They had slept through the night just as any couple would do. They had held each other close and had done nothing but sleep. Her body had been exhausted. She knew that. They had pushed the envelope over the past nine days since they met. There was a sexual hunger between them and it was as if neither one of them could rest until it was sated. It seemed to be for now.

She kissed him awake as he often did to her. An ocean of blue stared back at her as he opened his eyes. He smiled and he lit up her world. He had the best smile. His hand reached out to touch her face and a finger traced her lips.

"Good morning Olivia. I trust that you slept well. I slept like a baby. I love this bed. The mattress is very uncommon. It's so comfortable. It seems to mesh with the body yet it is firm."

"Good morning to you. I did sleep well Fitz. I must say that I have never slept better in this bed than with you beside me. I'll tell you all about this mattress when I get home. I'm so happy that you are here. You received a brief tour last night and I hope it will suffice. Unfortunately, I must rise and shine. I need to get in early for my presentation. I truly wish I could stay right here in bed with you but I can't."

"Of course, you can't Olivia and I don't expect you to. I'm not here to hinder you in any way. I'm so glad that I have an invitation to stay her with you. You can't possibly know what that means to me. You go on and get ready for school. I can find my way around here. Plus, I will be busy this morning making arrangement for my office here. What time can I expect you back today. Will this be a long day?"

"It will be sort of a long day Fitz. I'm sorry. I may not get in before seven or eight tonight. Coming back from a holiday only adds to the dilemma. Rest assured I shall return to you as soon as I can."

"Will you have had dinner by then? Should I prepare something or would you have the energy to go out?"

"I usually eat something light when I come in. I'll have something simple on lunch break. I'll eat some fruit or some yogurt on my way out the door this morning. Order something for dinner tonight if you like. For right now, you'll be able to find you something to eat in the fridge or in the cabinets. Neither one is bare but I don't have much in the way of delectables around here. There's a lovely marketplace in walking distance from here or you could Uber. Make yourself at home please. I love you and I have to get going."

"I love you back. Call me when you get a break. It's still early and this mattress seems to be calling my name. I may get me some more zees. You totally wore me out girl. My body is whacked."

"Same here. I feel like I may need days or even weeks to recover."

Her boyfriend was exhausted as well but weeks to recover from their marathon week of sex? He could weather a drought like that without a doubt but he wasn't really eager to. They hadn't made love this morning because they had been at it for hours before they landed. He was being sexist for even thinking this way. Olivia had shared her body with him freely for more than a week. If she needed a recovery period that was the end of it.

He hoped that his disappointment hadn't shown on his face. They both were finding their way in their relationship. They were compatible he knew that. They would fit loving each other into their schedule. Olivia though new to sex she wasn't shy about what she wanted. When she was ready to resume sexual relations, she would let him know. He smiled down at her. He loved her so much. As he had said, he had to get this right.

"You've had an extraordinary week Olivia. We've had an extraordinary week. For a minute I'd forgotten how very new you are to all of this. I imagine your body is making all sorts of adjustments. Take as long as you need to recover. I understand completely."

Olivia laughed out loud at her boyfriend. He was thinking she would really need days or weeks to recover from their intense week of lovemaking. She had seen the moment of disappointment he tried to hide. So much of who this man was played out in his face and eyes. She had witnessed his sexual libido first hand. The man was a sex machine. He could explode within her and be ready for another go in minutes. She had read tons about sex in her studies and her friendship with Darcie had afforded her a tremendous sexual education. Fitz wasn't the average man. His recovery phase was phenomenal and she had been the recipient of all his sexual expertise. She had loved every minute of what had happened between them

She had felt some discomfort at first. She had been a virgin and to say Fitz was well endowed was a big understatement. Her body had adjusted as it was supposed to do and now every time he entered into her body it was blissful. She needed to let him know she was joking!

"I'm joking Fitz. I'm okay. My body is fine. I have to go to school this morning but I can't wait to have sex with you again. I know you love me and not just my body."

"Olivia Pope, how in the world did I live my life before I met you? I love you so much and not just for your hot little body. You are such a little minx. I am serious. We don't need to have sex every day or even every week for that matter. Just knowing you love me and want me is enough."

"You are tripping Sir Fuckalot! You and I both know there will be no week-long drought with us. So, stop it! I will see you tonight."

Fitz watched her fine ass rise up from the bed. His morning erection became more rampant. Of course he wanted her. He always did. However, he was a most reasonable man. He closed his eyes and willed his dick and himself to go back to sleep. He was bone tired! It was six-thirty in the morning and pitch-black outside.

Olivia left her handsome knight fast asleep in her bed. No doubt he was tired. The both of them had expended a lot of energy over the past week and last night had left her weak. She wanted to kiss him goodbye but she thought better of it. She would see him tonight when she returned home.

Olivia delivered her presentation on time and it was very instructional. She was praised by her professor and her classmates alike. It was generally accepted that she was the smartest person in the room. She garnered the best assignments and she literally helped to teach this particular class. Professor Emerson adored his prized student and her heavily stimulated brain amazed him. Olivia Pope was one of the smartest students he had ever taught. She was going to be a brilliant physician!

Olivia was an outgoing and friendly person. Almost everyone that she came in contact with in the last three and half years admired the headstrong young woman from the Caribbean. There hadn't been one classmate that she had not offered the hand of friendship. She was admired by very many, classmates and professors alike! There were of course those that were envious of her and knowledge and not to mention her incomparable beauty.

Her fellow students were well aware that mostly all of the professors admired her brilliance and tenacity. Those that were envious and standoffish Olivia simply ignored. Those that were friendly and even those that hoped her wisdom would somehow rub off onto them she had some regard for. After all medical school wasn't easy for most but it had been easy thus far for her. Olivia was the type of person that wanted all of her classmates to succeed. They all wouldn't but if she could help those that wanted help she would.

Many people refute the phrase photographic memory saying it doesn't exist. Having had the ability since she was a child, Olivia prefers to believe it does. As it was there is little reason for her to broach the subject or dwell on it. The fact will always remain that the majority of what Olivia sees and reads remains in her head. There is also a psyche realm to her abilities. She refuses to call herself a seer but she does have images of the future revealed to her. Up until this point it has been something that she had kept to herself. However, she and Fitz have on several occasions over the past week seen images or visions of both of them in the future. Her love for Fitzgerald Grant was the main reason for her leap of faith with the man but the visions she had seen of the two of them and their subsequent family had sealed the deal for her.

She was thinking of Fitz right now and wondering what he was doing at her home. She smiled. He was here in Cambridge with her. He was going to spend time with her here. She was so happy about it. She had never thought to live with a man without the benefit of marriage but here she was. Fitz loved her and he wanted to marry her. She simply had to decide when it was best for them to do so. She would never have the beautiful wedding she had envisioned for herself back in the Caymans but she was getting the man of her dreams. Olivia had often seen his eyes in her dreams, in fact she had seen his entire face. When she had turned around at the pool and there he was, she was speechless. Her heart had literally leapt from her chest.

From that minute forward they had been on the fast track with their relationship. Things had accelerated quickly. They were in love with one another and they had almost immediately entered into a sexual relationship. He wanted her and she wanted him. They were two mature adults. She had given herself freely and without reservations to him. It was the right decision.

Their trip home had been unbelievable. Except for about an hour they had spent most of their time in the sky making love to each other. It had been an unbelievable experience. Every encounter between them was imprinted on her brain. She loved him so much and he seemed to love her back. She couldn't ask for anything more.

She had promised to call him on her first break. She had ten minutes until her next class. She had put his number on speed dial. He answered on the third ring. Olivia was hoping she hadn't awakened him. Fitz had gone back to sleep this morning before she left the house. He had said he was exhausted!

"I hope I didn't awaken you Fitz. You asked me to call on my first break. This is it. My presentation went well and I had labs this morning also. My next class is in ten minutes."

"I'm up Olivia and I'm working on my office space. I'm expecting my desk and file cabinet this afternoon. I've been busy or should I say Audrey has been busy. I also ordered a couple of phone lines for the office. With those few things I will be in business. How has your day been? So, your presentation went well? How are you feeling this morning? Are you still okay? Last night was quite an adventure."

"I'm feeling great attorney Grant. You know how to rattle off questions. We did have a marathon in the sky but I feel fine. In fact, I'm elated. That was the flight of my life Fitz. Thank-you for it! I'm so happy that you love me and you are going to be living with me when you can. I can't wait to see what you are doing to the room."

It's nothing elaborate Olivia. I also ordered some client seating. It's possible that I may have to receive a client here. I will do everything possible to keep from turning your home into anything other than what it was made for. However, if I should have to have a business meeting I would want to be prepared."

"Fitz, I understand that you are an attorney with a long list of celebrity clients. I offered you the use of my home knowing that you may have to do some business here. I don't have a problem with it at all. Having you here with me is so paramount right now. You couldn't possibly know what it means to me. I said make yourself at home and I meant it. If you having a make-shift office in Cambridge is all it takes to keep you near me, I'm thrilled. Did you find you something to eat this morning? It's after lunchtime. How are you making out?"

"I'm great Olivia and I assure you that I'm not starving. I put the list you left to good use. Don't worry about me. Concentrate on you studies and come home when you can. I'll be waiting. I love you girl, so much."

"I love you and I miss you. I'll give you a call when I'm on my way.

Tessa had spent the morning with her lawyer. He had come to her. She intended to keep her whereabouts from Thomas as long as she could. She anticipated there would soon be another altercation with her husband and she wasn't in the mood for it yet. She was getting her house in order. All of her moves from the day she had left Overton Place were very calculated. She wasn't a young woman. She didn't have time for mistakes. She was starting her life over and she wanted Thomas Pope out of it. Until that was done everything else was just a dream!

Speaking of dreams, he had often entered into hers. She couldn't remember exactly when she fell in love with him but it was before Thomas had showed up at her home to court her. Why had she accepted the suit of Thomas Pope if she didn't truly want him? She knew why, she was young and headstrong. She couldn't understand why he hadn't pursued her. He was always on the periphery staring at her but saying nothing. He was always polite when he spoke to her but nothing more. If he had shown even the slightest interest in her she would've responded. It had angered her that he hadn't responded to her!

She had assumed that he was uninterested and she became content to let Thomas pursue her. And pursue her she did. Thomas Pope's pursuit of Tessa Adderley was the talk of the town. He pulled out all of the stops. He flattered her. He plied her with gifts. He escorted her around the island on his arm as if she were a queen. He professed to love her and promised her a life very different from what she had known. He was going to be a doctor and she would be a doctor's wife. He was going to be rich which meant that she would be rich as well. He would build her a beautiful house where the rich islanders lived. She would have cars, jewels, and a position of respect in Cayman society. All she had to do was wait for him to back from medical school. He would marry her and make all of her dreams come true.

Tessa had mistaken Thomas Pope's flattery and indulgence as something rooted in love and romance. He had pursued her and professed to love her. His kisses had remained mostly chaise. He said he valued her virginity and he would wait until their wedding night to have the right to her body. He did desire her. He had spoken of his great desire of her as he fondled her breast and rubbed himself against her. However, he never went further than that. It had made her felt special at the time that Thomas wanted her but had valued her virginity. The fact that he was willing to wait until marriage to become her lover made her feel special. Slowly but surely, she had forgotten about the school girl crush she had for James Lockheed. Thomas had gone off to America to become a doctor. He had asked her to wait for him. She was going to.

During those first couple of years, she spent her time writing Thomas once a week and waiting for his treasured phone calls. Of course, she saw him around town and his eyes seemed to follow her still. Yet he never said more than hello. Then one day out of the blue he had spoken to her and said that she looked beautiful that day. She was walking along the beach. He asked if he could join here. Why not? He walked beside her for a long time saying nothing. Finally, he spoke.

"I don't see a ring on your finger Tessa. Tommy says that the two of you are engaged. Is it true?"

"Not formally. But we have an understanding."

"An understanding about what?"

"We are going to be married when Thomas finishes medical school. He asked me to wait for him."

"How convenient for Thomas. The most beautiful girl on this island waits at home while he sows his wild oats in America and anywhere else he chooses."

"That's not a nice thing to say about Thomas. We have promised ourselves to one another."

"No, it wasn't. I'm sorry I said that, Tessa. You may be saving yourself for Thomas but he is saving himself for no one. And I would also tell you that he is a promise breaker. Thomas is a close friend of mine as you know. He's not all bad but I'm not sure he will make a good husband. Nonetheless, he is obviously what you desire. I wish you two happiness."

He turned and he walked away. She had thought long and hard about what he had said. Was Thomas truly sowing his wild oats abroad and at home? She had heard rumors about Thomas and some of the other island girls. Of course men weren't expected to be chaise, only women were! Once they were married surely whatever bad habits Thomas had he would change them.

Tessa continued her walks along the beach. She had been hoping to see him again. He had awakened the feelings she had for him. To be honest she had wanted to explore those feelings. She had been in love with him once and she suspected that she still was. And then one day as she was taking her usual early morning walk and he had come up beside her again and started talking.

"Good morning Tessa. Did you know that a woman that doesn't have a ring on her finger isn't really engaged? Did you also know that if a man is allowed to sow his wild oats across the North American continent and these islands that a woman should be allowed to do so as well? Did you know that you are a woman after my own heart Tessa? Do you know how long I have loved you from afar?"

Her heart had lodged in her throat! He had been in love with her all this time and he had never said a word. If he had only said something things would've been so different. She had felt things for him that she had never felt for any man, including Thomas Pope. Even now her heart was beating so fast and she could barely speak. It was then that she knew that she had never stopped loving him.

She turned to look at him. He looked so unsure of himself but he was looking directly at her. He was such a handsome man. He wore his hair in dreads. He was tall, dark, and handsome. He made her feel fire.

"My answer to all of your questions is no, James Lockheed. I didn't know that you loved me from afar. Don't tell me that you didn't see me eyeing you for years because I know that you did. I prayed that you would notice me and say something out loud to me but you never did. You stared at me as if you cared but not a peep from you. Why on earth do you now declare yourself when I am all but betrothed to another? Why now have you sought me out?"

"I have simply decided not to deny the truth any longer. I love you and I would like to spend time with you. I believe you have stepped into this relationship with Thomas Pope because it is what you were expected to do. It isn't what you want to do Tessa. A man knows when he is a woman's choice."

"You have a lot of conceit within you James Lockheed. If you knew you were my choice why let me cavort all over this island with another man? I watched for you. I waited for you. I loved you!"

"Because I was a fool Tessa. Thomas Pope is my best friend in this world. He wanted you too. I stood in the shadows and watched him court you and claim you for himself. It was an error on my part, one I regret. Thomas is undeserving of you Tessa. I'm late to the game but I have now come to put my cards on the table."

He held out his hand to her and she took it. They walked on. It had been years since Tessa had relived that momentous walk on the beach with Jimmy. He had declared his love for her that day and they had begun a clandestine love affair of sorts. Theirs was an extremely emotional love affair before it became physical. They did eventually share sexual moments filled with desire. She held on to her precious virginity though. She had been raised to believe it was to be given only to her husband. So, she and Jimmy had done other things for their fulfillment. She had lied to her daughter and insinuated she had never known passion with a man. Truth was she had never known passion with Thomas Pope! Her face was scarlet right now thinking of all she and James Lockheed had done outside of breeching her maidenhead!

Jimmy was so sure that she had chosen him it didn't matter that she was still holding onto the old wife's tale of saving her virginity for her husband to breech. He was going to be her husband. He would wait for their wedding night for that intimacy! She only had to explain to Tommy that he was the one that she loved. That never happened because she never told Tommy.

Thomas Pope had come home with that diamond engagement ring after he had graduated from medical school just as he said he would. He had come to her home and asked her father for permission to marry her. Of course, her daddy had said yes. Tommy hadn't any idea that she was in love with Anna Mae Lockheed's son, the one that used their fishing boats to carry tourists when the cruise ships came in. Her father had no idea that they had been in his bed night after night doing wicked things to each other! She allowed Tommy to put that beautiful ring on her finger and hadn't said a word about Jimmy.

In the end she had decided she wanted to be a doctor's wife and not the wife of a tourist and fishing merchant. She had been a selfish spoiled girl when she had made that decision. Knowing that she loved another man, a man she had been sharing her body with for more than a year, she had put on her snow-white gown indicative of purity and married his best friend. How low down and cowardly was that? She was so ashamed as she stood there repeating those vows. And when she did look up it was into the eyes of James Lockheed stoic and proud. He had told her if she went through with the marriage they were done!

Jimmy had stood there at the altar and watched her marry Thomas Pope and hadn't said a word until the minister pronounced them man and wife. All he said was "Congratulations." He had meant what he said they were done! Over the years, he had all but ignored her. It was as if she didn't exist but sometimes, she could see the pain in his eyes. He remained the best friend of her husband so she saw him often. He became godfather to her children. He was nothing but pleasant to her but nothing more than that. She had assumed that he hated her and she avoided him as much as possible.

As for her she had realized her mistake on her wedding night. All she had suffered in between then and now she had brought upon herself. She'd had a chance for a wonderful life with a man that loved her and she had chosen the one that she thought had the brighter future. She laughed out loud. James Lockheed could buy and sell Thomas Pope right now!

As her mother used to always say. When fools rush in they usually stay put. She had stayed put for thirty years for the sake of the children. Her sorry excuse for a husband had now removed both them from her life. Did it really matter that her children were gone? It did. She had failed them but she hadn't stayed in her loveless marriage for her children. She'd done it to punish herself! Thirty years was enough penance. Finally, the fool that she had been was now reclaiming her life. She was no longer staying put. She was out!