Chapter 31

Fitz was the first to awaken. Olivia was wrapped in his arms sleeping soundly. They had eventually gotten into their bed but not to sleep. Their new reality had been theirs to explore until the wee hours of the morning. Neither one of them had cried uncle but Olivia had fallen asleep atop of him after a most rewarding ride for the both of them. Reluctantly he had awakened her. They had disengaged, cleaned up and had promptly gone to sleep. That had been at three am. It was now shortly before nine in the morning.

He usually joined his family for Sunday breakfast when he was at home. He had stopped going to church services years ago. He and Olivia would be expected this morning. He had decided they would sleep in. He could have called. Because his mother would be expecting him, he decided to show up instead. The family was very close, and he was part and parcel of what the family did on holidays. He wanted to at least show his face. Maybe they would do breakfast tomorrow. He spent a great deal of his time with the family when in California. He imagined they were somewhat disappointed even though they understood his absence. Olivia was with him this time.

After joining his family, he knew that they understood very well. They hadn't expected him this morning. He and Olivia would check in around brunch time. He didn't share his good news with the family yet. It was news to be shared with only his immediate family. Also, he wanted Olivia with him. They would share the news together. They weren't ready to go global just yet. Security measures had to be in place for that to happen. He briefly discussed tentative plans for the rest of the holiday and he went back to the west wing. Careful not to disturb Olivia he had gotten back into bed and cradled her in his arms. They would get up when they got up. Good sex was very tiring and last night had been extremely good. He kissed his fiancée's brow and went back to sleep.

He was dreaming. Olivia was in his dream. She smiling and very happy. He loved her smile. "Wake up, Fitz." He was asleep? He opened his eyes and yawned. Olivia was staring at him wide awake and smiling. He smiled back.

"Good morning, sleepy head. Welcome back amongst the living. I figured we were sleeping in this morning but it's afternoon Fitz. Weren't we to have breakfast with the family this morning?"

"We were supposed to, however I didn't have the heart to awakened you at seven-thirty this morning. You were obviously exhausted. We were up until around three. You needed to rest. I canceled with the family for us. It's no biggie. There's a nice brunch after they return from church. We'll see everyone then. None of the family is leaving until later today. So, we'll get a chance to see everyone."

"I'm glad. I want to show off my newest Christmas present. My ring is gorgeous Fitz. It's the most beautiful ring in the entire world." She held her hand up to admire it. It was beautiful and it was supposed to be. Most two-million-dollar rings were beautiful. He had wanted something very special and unique for his lady. She was his choice, his only choice. He wanted her to know that she was priceless to him. All that he had or ever hoped to acquire was hers to do as she chose. Fitz was thinking Olivia didn't quite believe that yet, but she would one day.

"I'm happy you love the ring, Olivia. It was designed and made especially for you. It's supposed to say how much I love you when I'm not around. You my darling Livvy, are everything to me. In a few short weeks we have established a lifetime of commitment. I knew that would happen and obviously so did you. I've wanted you for my wife since the day we met. I knew you were the one. I promised myself as you walked past me; once you were mine, I would never let you go. I love you with all my heart girl. When you said yes last night you made me the happiest man on the planet. I could breathe again.

I want to tell the entire world that you have agreed to become my wife. Because of safety concerns, I would prefer that we hold our good news between us and my immediate family right now. This is only until I have security where I need them to be in reference to you. Your safety is paramount to me.

Once the world knows we are affianced, you are technically a Grant for all intent and purpose. I would have you safe, Olivia. I hope you can understand. In no way do I want to diminish your joy and happiness right now. I hope it doesn't put too much of a damper on the occasion for you. I imagine you are eager to share the wonderful news with your family, Darcie, and perhaps others. Are you able to see where we are right now?"

"Of course. I'm sorry that I didn't see this for myself without you having to point it out. Actually, there's little that could damper my happiness right now. You want to marry me! I assure you nothing could take away from the happiness I feel about that. I understand perfectly where we are. I can contain myself for what a few weeks?"

"Let's not put a time stamp on it, Olivia. I'll turn the news over to head of security tomorrow. He will actually be the final arbiter of when we can move forward. I had asked him to begin tentatively with strategies and plans in case you said yes. There are some minor strategies already in place because of my anticipated move to Cambridge. The immediate plan is to secure your current residence and determine if we need to have more than just a presence on the Harvard campus. Once I'm convinced of your safety we can go from there. Ideally waiting until your internship is in place and we have secured a house that can be properly monitored would be the best time to alert the world to our good news however neither one of us wants to wait until May or June."

"Surely we won't have to wait for six months to share our joy with everyone?"

"Probably not. However, I must be assured of your safety. There aren't any ifs, ands, or buts, about that. Unfortunately, extremely wealthy people and their loved ones are always targets. I would never risk your life over publicity."

"No, you wouldn't. The only ones important enough to know in my life right now are my mom, my brother, Darcie, and Uncle Jim. They're my family. When I can tell them, I will. Will there be a lot of publicity Fitz? I know you don't really like a lot of fanfare."

"Most likely there will be. You've taken one of the world's most eligible bachelors off of the market. And I've been on Forbes List since I was twenty-five. There may be just a bit of publicity and fanfare. Not that I care, I'm more concerned about you and the effect it may have on you and your life. I don't want you to ever have regrets Olivia."

"There will never be regrets about the best thing to ever happen to me. Which is you Fitzgerald Grant. The day I met you, the day I realized how much I loved you, and the day you told me you loved me too were momentous occasions for me. The way you loved me so thoroughly on Christmas and as a finale asking me to marry you was the best day of my life. Becoming your wife and eventually the mother of your children will cement my happiness. I love you. No regrets, none!"

"Everything will fall into place. You'll see. We will share with Maman, my father, and grandfather after brunch. They are all aware that there will be a need for secrecy until security is in place, so we are free to tell them. All of our other guests will be gone after brunch, it will be just the five of us. It won't be long before we can tell the world Olivia, I promise."

"I know you will do what is best and I'm perfectly okay with that. I know that you love me and have asked me to marry you. That is more than enough."

"I'm glad you are okay with this Olivia. I want to keep smiles on your beautiful face. When you are happy. I'm happy. Shall we get up and get ready for brunch?"

"Let's do that. I'm hungry. And let me clarify that it's hunger for food."

"I'm hungry as well. We'll sate one hunger at a time. How about that?"

"Sounds wonderful my dear fiancé. I can no longer refer to you as my boyfriend. You've been promoted."

"Yes, I have."

They joined the rest of the family for brunch. There was still a lot of holiday spirit in the air. The kids of course held on to their excitement from yesterday and were thrilled to be going home. The meal was absolutely delicious. It was served buffet style this afternoon. Fitz was famished so he was eating in full gusto mode. Olivia had been hungry as well but being a light eater, she was done and now watching her fiancé and wondering where he put all that he ate.

After brunch the various members of extended family were packing up getting ready to go back to their prospective homes. The family transport was dropping everyone off at their airports. Aunt Andrea and her family were the only ones leaving out of LAX. The Grants and Olivia said goodbye to everyone and the Christmas affair was over.

The new year was fast approaching. The family had been invited to a New Year's Eve soiree. Fitz had discussed it with Olivia. Did she want to be involved with a large gathering? It would be their last day and night in California. They could do something intimate for their celebration here at home, they could join his parents, or they could go out, just the two of them. On New Year's Day, they would fly her into Cambridge and he would fly home to NYC from there. Duty was calling for both of them after the holidays.

Fitz wanted it to be Olivia decision what they decided upon. He would be happy with her decision as long as they were together. Finally, the Grant house was quiet again. Everyone had gone their separate ways to continue their lives.

"That was a wonderful holiday. It was so good to see those that could come this year. Frankly I was glad it was a small gathering. We wanted us to get to know you better Olivia and we did. It's so much fun having you here. And to think we have almost another week with you. You brought joy and sunshine into our son's life again. Thank-you so much for coming and for staying through the New Year. I hope you are enjoying your stay with us Olivia."

"It has been the best Gabriella. I have loved every minute so far. All of you have been gracious hosts. I love it here in California. What I've seen of it is so beautiful. I'm so glad that you invited me."

"You have an open invitation to join us any time Olivia. And that's with or without my grandson."

"That's very gracious Papa Joe. However, I like having your grandson as a traveling companion. He's great company and we like traveling together."

"Yes, we do. We like it so much that we're planning on doing it a lot. Would you all please join us in Father's study. We'd like some privacy and we have some news for all of you."

Olivia had purposely not worn her ring during brunch. Fitz had placed it back in the velvet satchel and he carried in his pants pocket. They were ready to officially share the news with his family! Olivia had the biggest smile on her face and it made her fiancé smile broadly. They walked down to the study and everyone walked in. Fitz closed the door and held out his hand to Olivia.

He retrieved the ring from his pants and once again let it fall in his palm. Olivia held out her hand. Fitz promptly placed the beautiful ring back on her finger. She held it up for all to admire. The ring was dazzling. The ten-carat center diamond and the half carat ones on each side of it gave off a brilliant light. The color and clarity of the diamonds were flawless. And all that glittered was 18 karat gold. The ring was beautiful!

"Fitz proposed to me last night and I said yes. Unfortunately, we can only share it with you guys right now. Fitz has explained to me the necessity for keeping our engagement private. It doesn't mean that I'm not the happiest girl on the planet though! I said yes!"

"Yes, she did. And by doing so, she has elevated my life. I love you, Olivia." He pulled her into his arms for a sweet kiss. Gabriella clapped her with glee. His father and grandfather were overjoyed as well.

"Great news, my boy. You did good Fitz. Well done. Congratulations to you two. Welcome to the family again, Olivia. My grandson is a very lucky man!"

"I'm so happy for you Fitz and Olivia. Congrats. You two belong together. I imagine that you haven't made any other plans?"

"Not yet mother. Right now, what I know is that she said yes, and we will be married!"

"Let me have a closer look, Olivia. Those diamonds are brilliant! You are giving off your own light!"

"I know. Isn't it just perfect. I love the ring so much. I wish the entire world could see it!"

"Excellent choice Fitz. You and Olivia seem made for the other. Congratulations son!"

Gabriella picked up the phone. "Mandy, would you please bring up a bottle of the Ryst Dupeyron Armagnac '84 to my husband's study with six goblets. Please bring that yourself Mandy if you don't mind. Thank-you, dear. We have to tell Mandy or she will have a hissy fit. Mandy is unofficial family. We risk our souls by not sharing with her, right Fitz?"

"Absolutely. Mandy knows all our secrets anyway. The '84 is an excellent choice for a celebration Maman."

Mandy arrived and was beaming with delight when told the news. She was over-joyed for her "son." She could see how much Fitz loved Olivia. She wasn't surprised at the early engagement. Knowing Fitz as she did, it was obvious he planned to marry the woman. It was only a question of when. There was an impromptu wedding proposal celebration. The immediate family of Grants raised their glasses to their engagement. They were all very happy for the favorite son. Mandy was very relieved that the bad mojo she had received the last time Fitz became engaged was nowhere in the room. She had hugged the engaged couple, very happy for them.

The rest of the day was easy and relaxed. Olivia and Fitz made swimming their exercise of the day and then climbed into the jacuzzi listening to RnB and Jazz as the water soothed them. Olivia had admitted to Fitz that as much as she had loved their sexual marathon last night, she was very tender from the encounter. He apologized naturally believing himself to be the cause of her plight. She wouldn't allow him to take all of the blame. She had been as eager as he had been and their new circumstances had them both on fuck alert. They both readily admitted that the sex had been so much more intense and pleasurable in the raw. Naturally they had overdone it!

Olivia could tell that Fitz was truly concerned about her. He had a worried and contrite look on his face. And she was right. He was more than concerned. He had stayed inside of her most of the night constantly pleasing her and himself while fucking them both senseless. He had hurt her. He should have known better. Using a condom was more practical and user friendly if you were going to fuck all night! He hadn't made the slightest sexual overture tonight. And Olivia knew that he wouldn't.

"Fitz, I'm alright. I only told you because we promised to share everything. I was thinking perhaps you were sore as well. I'm petite and I have a small frame. Plus, you've often said how snugly you fit inside of me. It's no big deal. We've had sex all night before. I simply must get accustomed to it with our new reality."

"Olivia, I love having sex with you. It has become one the most enjoyable things in my life. I never thought I would find someone like you; someone that enjoys sex the same as I enjoy it. You give me your all every single time. I want you every time I see you. And you, you never refuse me. I was a bear last night. I didn't think of your comfort at all. I simply took! I'm sorry I hurt you."

"Fitz, please stop trying to totally bear the burden for this situation. You didn't hurt me. Nothing you did hurt me. If it had, I would've stopped you. I'm sore because we had sex all night and it was our first time without a condom. We've had sex all night at least twice before with a condom and I was fine. My body simply needs to adjust is all. Stop fretting Fitzgerald Grant. If you think we're going to stop fucking because my genitalia are sore, you had better think again. Not. Going. To. Happen!"

Fitz looked at his fiancée. Olivia was so serious with her beautiful self. Fiery and slightly upset Olivia was a force to reckon with. She had on the black one piece and boy did she look gorgeous. When she was fiery and serious, he loved her even more. She was deadly serious and he knew it. He wasn't going to be cut off because Olivia Pope wasn't having it! He laughed out loud and shook his head at his fiancée. She was a spitfire and she was his. He was a lucky man!

"Have I told you today how much I love you? I think I have but let me say it again. I'm the luckiest guy on the planet. When I found you, my entire world righted itself. And last night when you accepted my proposal, you made me the happiest man alive. I love you so much Olivia. I'll never let you go!"

"And I will never let you go either. You are my heart and it beats just for you my sweet knight. You're the sweetest and most gentle of lovers. You only become powerful and fierce when you are seeking your final pleasure. I do that too. It's normal. Sex is primal and raw. And you are better at it than anyone. Promise me you won't change a thing as we go through this new phase. I mean it Fitz. I love the way you love me and I won't have you changing anything!"

He looked into her eyes. Her passion was burning. His was as well. It didn't matter. They were done with lovemaking for the day. They were taking a couple of day off. Make that several days off!

"Nothing is going to change Olivia. Sex should never become orchestrated. Lovemaking is an extension of loving someone. It should be natural and spontaneous. We have that now and we will do what we do, okay General Pope?"

"As long as we are clear. The jacuzzi has been quite soothing. It was a great idea. And the music, I love it. What's up for later this evening?"

"Want to go to the theater room? As an Academy voter Maman gets all the new releases from all over the world. We could watch anything we want to, really. Is there anything you would like to see? I assure you the Grant catalogue of movies has all of the latest flicks."

"You can choose something. I like good movies period. Will the concession stand provide popcorn and wine?"

"Anything you want Olivia, anything. Come on let's get a quick shower and go to the movies."

The next two days were spent having fun. He took Olivia to Disneyland. When he found out she had never been to an amusement park, he made it a high priority. He, Olivia, and a four-man detail went to see the mouse. Olivia was like a little kid. She decided that she loved the rides. The really exciting and scary ones she loved. She tried to ride them all. Yes, they had a pass where they could go ahead of the other riders at their leisure. Olivia looked back at the long lines and felt sorry for those less fortunate. She was going to embrace the life she would have with Fitzgerald Grant without reservation. She was at Disneyland to have the best time. Privilege and money were providing it for her.

Fitz had told her she would have to pick and choose her battles as she maneuvered through his world. His world, the world of the rich and famous was different. You couldn't begrudge everything that placed you in a different category or at an advantage or you couldn't be happy about your life. She was happy! She was becoming a part of a family that was making a difference in this world.

On Wednesday night they attended the banquet where Jerry was being honored for his philanthropy and economic expertise. Who's who of Santa Barbara was there. There were also some celebrities that were present. If by chance they encountered them, there was an introduction and they moved on. The food was excellent and so was the company. Olivia really enjoyed herself.

The family was going to an NBA game in LA on Friday. They would meet at game time. She and Fitz arrived in LA the morning of. They had arrived at the Los Angeles Ritz-Carlton that morning. They were there for the day and wanted to remain close to the action. The Grants had a mansion in the Hollywood Hills but Fitz chose to stay in the mix. They were doing a small bit of sightseeing as part of the LA outing. They visited Grauman's Chinese theater. Olivia was amazed at the footprints and handprints outside the place. The concept of memorializing famous people in the concrete was actually started by owner. Some famous star actually stepped into the concrete during construction of the place and the owner decided to leave it there and encouraged other stars to do the same. Celebrity imprints were everywhere. Could you believe there was a famous bosom imprint?

Many Academy Awards Celebrations were held at Grauman's. They walked to the Dolby Theater right around the corner from the place. The Dolby was now the current home of the Academy Awards Show. They saw the famous Jimmy Kimbell theater. They walked a portion of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Hollywood was an interesting place. Olivia enjoyed the short tour. They had returned to the hotel for a revamp before meeting his family at the game.

Sitting in the Grant box was an engaging experience. Some very high profiled people and celebrities joined them. They were all friends of the Grants. She was introduced as Fitz' girlfriend when in actuality she was his fiancée. It tugged at her heart a little not being able to acknowledge their engagement. She wanted everyone to know. She would be happy when she could proudly let the world know that Fitzgerald Grant had chosen her!

Fitz' team won and he was thrilled about it. His excitement trickled down to her. He was happy, so she was happy. So was his father and Papa Joe. Gabriella had adopted the home team as well. The family was joyous about the win. They discussed the game and their playoff hopes on the way home. Fitz and Olivia were holding hands and extremely happy. It had been a fun day with Fitz and a fun evening with the family. The helicopter ride back to Santa Barbara was talkative. It was another opportunity for Olivia to mingle with his family. Finally, they were home and another day was over.

Fitz wanted to know if she had made up her mind as to how they would spend their last night together. She had. She wanted to spend their last night together, just the two of them. She was hoping the family wouldn't mind if they didn't go to the New Year's Eve soiree. She didn't want to share Fitz on their last night together. She admitted it was selfish but she was being truthful. Fitz had told her not to worry, his family would understand.

They had spent the last week simply enjoying each other's company. They had shared meals with the family at least once a day. The two of them exercised together. They swam together. They played tennis. They had ridden out to a friend's farm to ride horses. It had been an eventful week but all of it was very slow paced. The usual day ended with dinner with the family and their return to his wing to talk or watch a little TV. Vacationing was fun but it took a toll even on these two.

They'd had one sexual encounter since their fabulous Christmas night. It had been wonderful of course but it had been a total oral transaction. Fitz had insisted that they give her body more rest and recovery time. He was adamant and she didn't try to discourage him. To be honest their Christmas lovefest had left her walking sideways for a couple of days. However, that had been days ago. She missed her fiancé and his loving ways.

Tonight, she wanted their total intimacy back. Fitz was right to insist that they give her body a chance to recover. Well, she was recovered and she wanted the attention of her lover. She was eagerly anticipating how wonderful it would be after waiting all of these days to make love again. She could really appreciate his concern but she was alright. No complete sexual intimacy for six days was enough! They were in a deeply loving relationship. Their sexual relationship was a very important aspect of their relationship. They had already discussed this but perhaps they needed to revisit the topic.

Tonight, was their last night in California. Tomorrow night would be spent flying over the United States to Boston. They needed to make memories to sustain them both. Fitz had said it would be at least two weeks perhaps three before he could return to Cambridge. She was dreading another separation. He anticipated it would be February before he started spending full weekends with her. He wanted her to work on finding them a home. He wanted them moved into their place after graduation. She was a shoo-in for first year residency at Mass General. Find something close or far. She would be driven there by security anyway.

It had to be done but she wanted him with her house hunting! She wasn't excited to start looking for a home for them on her own. He seemed to think that she should make all of the decisions about their new house. She was to find what she wanted and get back to him. It didn't seem right to her. They should do this together. She assumed he simply didn't have the time to put to the task. He was busy setting up his company basically to run on a four-day work week. He didn't care what she decided on in a house really. It wouldn't become a home until they were both in it and made it their own. He was very clear. All he wanted a house with her in it and her safety secured. He had given her a list of some of the most exclusive neighborhoods in Boston and told her to choose one.

She knew that Fitz was a powerful man mostly accustomed to having things done his way. She was sure he'd been spoiled rotten by his family being the only child of privilege even though he was the kindest of men. She gave him a lot of leeway because she loved him and because he was older. His life experiences far surpassed hers. Nonetheless, she wanted major decisions between them made together. A home was a major decision. They would revisit this at a later time. At this moment, the here and now needed to be attended to.

They were back home at last after a most rewarding day and evening. Everyone was in a good mood and they had gone their separate ways at the heliport. They would celebrate her last day with them tomorrow. Did they want breakfast tomorrow? Traditionally Jerry and Gabriella slept late on New Year's Day because of their late night. Their flight to the east coast didn't leave until eleven o'clock at night. They had plenty of time for good-byes. Fitz said they would play it by ear depending how they felt tomorrow morning. It had been a long day. They entered his wing and locked the door.

"What a day! That game was exciting. My voice is raspy from all that screaming at the refs. How did you like your first NBA game?

"It was great fun. It was very interesting watching you, your dad, and Papa Joe. All of you are so intense and really into the game. Are you this way about football as well?"

"To be honest, we are worst during football season. The home team can be iffy and they have a tendency to change cities a lot. We'll have to take you to your first NFL game as well. I know you like sports in general. Is there anything you are into other than swimming?"

"Not really. I would never begrudge your interest though. I'd be very thrilled to share the excitement of sports with you. I like seeing you so animated and happy. I intend to share your sports enthusiasm. Eventually I hope to be as enthused as you are."

"That great news. I look forward to making you a number one fan of all my favorite sports teams. So, Lady Olivia exactly how are we going to spend our last night in California?"

"How about we order us a delicious meal and simply celebrate here at home if you don't mind. We could listen to some music and bring in the New Year right here at home. Do you normally watch the ball or apple ascend to midnight? Darcie and I usually do it together unless she has a serious involvement in the New Year. My parents usually celebrated with my father's medical cronies. It's never been a big deal to me before tonight. I'm so happy to bring in the new year with you."

"Never more than me. This new year is going to be a new birth for me because you are in it. I'm so happy to ring it in with you. We can decide which show to watch or we can provide our own musical countdown and dance the night away. One of my best memories are of us dancing on Thanksgiving and dancing on the plane. I love those two events Olivia. They were the best."

"They were awfully nice. They led to some very astounding encounters between us. Memories were made on those nights that I shall never forget. Who do you normally watch on New Year's night? What network?"

"Actually, I don't usually watch. If I'm here in California I go with my parents to that annual New Year's event. If I'm in New York, I hang out with the people at the office. Drey will throw something together for us and we raise a glass at midnight. I'm at your disposal this evening, whatever you want."

"Let's google who has a show tonight and see who the musical guests are. I don't like country or rock. RnB, some jazz fusion, or easy listening is about it for me."

"Sounds like a plan. Now as to dinner, we could order out or we could request something from the kitchen."

"Choose your favorite restaurant and order for two. Surprise me. I don't want to impose on Miss Mandy. With your parents going out she probably thought she had a night off."

"Mandy rarely takes a day off. She in charge of the kitchen Olivia. She has a huge staff. I assure you we need only make a request for whatever we want. The kitchen is well stocked with just about everything and believe it or not there's always a full staff rotating in. However, I understand what you are thinking. I love the way you are always thinking of others. Let's order out."

"Thanks Fitz. Let Miss Mandy enjoy the rest of her day laid back, on call but really doing nothing."

"Okay, so do you have a taste for anything at all?"

"No, I don't. I shouldn't eat another bite considering all the junk food I ate watching the game."

"I saw you tasting just about everything that came by. Were you hungry or just curious?"

"Curiosity mostly. Everything looked so good, but it wasn't. It was mainly taste and discard! Anyway, as I said surprise me. Whatever you order I will eat."

"How about take-out from Ruth Chris. A big juicy steak. Soup and salad. Some hot bread. I have the perfect Sauvignon for the meal."

"That sounds divine. I don't need a huge steak like you. Just a small one, please."

It's settled then. Dinner, New Year's celebration on TV, and we toast to the new year at midnight."

"Sounds wonderful."

Dinner was a treat. The chopped salad was delicious as was the lobster bisque. Fitz enjoyed a huge porter house steak, garlic mashed potatoes, and grilled asparagus. Olivia had a petite filet mignon, sweet potato casserole, and roasted brussels sprouts. Paired with the wine it was an outstanding meal. Fitz ate every bite. Olivia ate all of her steak and dabbled at the sides. Fitz had purposely not ordered dessert. He intended to turn Olivia into his dessert tonight preferably topped with a can of whipped cream. He was hungry for her. He missed her in the worst way.

Their sexual connection was a cornerstone of their relationship. They loved to express their love for each other. They had from the very first. However, in his opinion they, correction, he had overdone it on Christmas night. Olivia was a small petite little thing and she gave as good as she got. He was almost double her weight and he was well endowed. He was usually very cognizant of those facts but he wasn't on Christmas night. He was completely lost inside her as he peaked. He was a savage beast and he knew it. And Olivia, she took it all. She had said it herself. Sex is primal and raw.

Tonight, he intended to get them back on track but he was limiting himself to a single climax. He didn't want to ruin what they had in the bedroom. Olivia thoroughly enjoyed sex and he wanted it to stay that way. Christmas night was an oddity anyway. He would leave the multiple orgasms to Olivia.

They were listening to the countdown to the new year. It was ten minutes until midnight. They had polished off half of the Sauvignon. They were both mellow and in love. Ironically, they both had Christmas night on their minds. Olivia wanted Fitz to share everything with her. He was upset about the after effects of their Christmas marathon. She had told him how sore she was the next day and he had immediately cut them off from sexual intercourse because of it. She understood his point but it deserved a discussion first. She was a doctor for goodness' sake. She hadn't been ripped apart. She was simply fucked well without a condom and her tissues were sore. She only needed to get accustomed to sex in the raw!

They both started to speak at the same time. They both spoke the same words. "About Christmas night…" They looked at each other and smiled. This was a conversation they should've had a week ago.

"Ladies First Olivia."

"About Christmas night; it was wonderful Fitz. I enjoyed every moment of it. Your insatiability was the highlight of the night. Sex in the raw was magnificent. It was more than I ever dreamed it could be. Sex with you up until that point had been the best ever and then you pushed yourself inside of me without a condom. I shattered into pieces on contact and you couldn't bring yourself to even move because it felt so good, am I right?"

"Yes, you are."

"You are so good at making love to me. I count the days between our encounters. I love you Fitz. Having sex with you is an extension and expression of that love. It means the world to me that you want me so much. I know what happened. No one is the blame. Certainly not you. A couple of days of restraint was fine but a week. We needed to discuss that and come to a mutual agreement. Sharing everything, means our sex life too. I know you are the more experienced and have most likely been exposed to every situation but don't leave me out of anything. I wasn't mad about it but I felt some kind of way. I felt we should have made the decision not to indulge together."

"I've thought about it as well and you are right of course. I should've discussed it with you first before taking it upon myself to suspend our sexual encounters. I felt I had hurt you and I was really bothered by that. I hurt you enough for you to be honest and tell me about it. I was panicked that the encounter would somehow turn you from me. In my mind a painful sexual experience could do that. I was afraid Olivia. You are everything to me and our sex life has been incomparable. Nothing or no one has ever pleased me the way you do. Sex isn't everything in a relationship but a good healthy sex life helps to sustain one. I don't want to lose any aspect of our relationship and especially what goes on in the sexual realm. I owe you an apology for not talking to you first. Can you forgive me?"

"There's nothing to forgive. Truth is, I didn't have a painful sexual experience. You didn't hurt me Fitz! Nothing you did during that marathon hurt me. I loved every minute of it! I was sore the next day, very sore. It wasn't comparable to the night I gave you my virginity. I felt soreness then too, but this was different. We both know why. We are smart people. You stayed inside of me most of the night and we both enjoyed it. Our new reality brought us both to new heights of sensitivity and pleasure. 'We' overdid it, not just you. I'm fine. One hundred percent okay! I'm not some delicate flower that will break when bent. Promise me you will remember that."

"God, I love you so much Olivia. I've been so happy since the very first night you agreed to sit down and talk with me. We made a date for the next day and the rest is history. We fell in love and we are moving forward at warp speed. In the back of my mind, I worry that it's just a dream, a dream that could be taken away from me. I can't lose you Olivia!"

"You won't lose me, not ever. I've promised myself to you. I've accepted your proposal of marriage because there's no one else for me, ever! I've felt your worry. I can sense it but I can't pinpoint why you are so worried. I will never leave you Fitz, never. You have to know we were meant to be. Our souls had met long before we met in the Caymans. I recognized you the moment I saw you. You've said I'm the love of your life. Well, you're mine as well. We will grow old together. I promise."

"Come here Livvy. Two minutes until the new year. Our new year, our new beginning. I love you."

"I love you back."

The clock struck midnight and the new year rung in. The lovers put down their glasses and became entangled in an intimate kiss. Their passion soared and the temperature in the room scorched them both. They finally broke the kiss and stared into each other's eyes.

"Come with me and let me love you tonight. I've missed being inside you so much. I need you Olivia, like I need oxygen to breath. These last few days have been torture."

"Yes, it has been for both of us. It's over now. Take me to bed and do wicked things to me. I want you to."

"I plan to Miss Pope. Come with me."

They entered the bedroom hand in hand. Olivia looked at the bed. The coverings were already turned down. Red rose petals were scattered on the silken sheets. There were also four red silk ties on the bed. On one night stand there was a box of chocolate covered strawberries. There were six covered in white chocolate and six in traditional. On the other night stand there was a can of whipped cream. Olivia's eyes lit up in joyous anticipation.

"I see that dessert is going to be very decadent. Strawberries and cream. It's amazing how your favorite fruit so quickly became mine. Those silk ties my sweet knight whatever are they for? Surely you don't think I would leave you for any reason tonight?"

"Of course not. They aren't for you Olivia. They're for me."

"You had plans to run from me Sir Fitz?"

"Never, Lady Olivia. I'm at your beck and call tonight. Restrain me and do to me what you will. You rule the night. All I ask is that you save me some cream in case you decide to let me hold the reins for a while."

"Well then, undress and lie down on the bed."