Chapter 36

He hadn't slept so peacefully in weeks. He wanted to stretch and yawn. He didn't. Olivia was still sleeping and snoring which she would never admit to. The thing was that she snored so daintily that you almost couldn't call it snoring. It was more like a little purr if anything. Whatever the sound it soothed him the way no other sound did. She had gone to sleep almost as soon as her head hit had settled on his chest. And she had stayed there all night long. Throughout the night she had reached for him, pulling him to her.

"Fitz?"

"I'm here Sweet Baby, here with you." He'd reassure her forever. He'd always be with her. Obviously, she had been tired. She poured a lot into her work. He knew that she was exhausted. He didn't want to awaken her. She had told him of her very busy week. She needed to rest.

He needed to pee. Hopefully it would somehow curb this rampant morning erection he had. He had fallen asleep not long after Olivia, after willing last night's erection to do the same. She was ending her period and they had mutually agreed to no sex of any kind until it was over. Actually, this was more than a morning erection. This was unmitigated longing and lust. He had expected to have her last night for as long as they both wanted to indulge but human biology had said no. Thus, he had banked his longing and lust dreaming of past encounters.

He didn't want Olivia to wake up to the same scenario she had closed her eyes to last night. His dick had been at full attention. Olivia with her doe-like eyes had woefully eyed his erection and licked her lips. If he had wanted an oral transaction, he could've had one. It wasn't his goal just to only please himself. They were a team in all things and he wanted Olivia to know that. So, it wasn't a surprise that this morning he had awakened fully engaged. What normally happened between the two of them didn't happen.

Olivia was very sensitive to his wants and needs. Without a doubt she would possibly suggest something this morning that he would be hard pressed to refuse. He eased himself from her and the bed. She slept on. Boy, did he have a hard on! He gingerly walked into the bathroom. A quick shower, a cold one should dampen his lust. The most prudent thing he could do was remove himself from temptation. Once his shower was done, he would prepare them a nice breakfast. Then they would move on with their day!

Olivia had a very nice spacious kitchen. He had put away all of his culinary things when he arrived yesterday. They had ordered out last night. This was their very first morning living together as a couple. It just occurred to him the significance of the day and the morning. They had spent some very enlightened moments here in this condo but never as a fully committed couple. They had become engaged at Christmas. They were involved in a torrid love affair but this morning they would embark on a very different journey. It was a very special day. It should be celebrated from beginning to end.

Flowers! Olivia should wake up to flowers, food, and flattery this morning. He loved her so much and she was giving them a chance to grow. She had allowed him in her already planned out life. He was grateful and he wanted her to know it. This first weekend that they would share as a couple was the beginning of their lives together. He had imagined that they would spend a portion of it in bed. Sex inspired the both them. As of yet they hadn't gone there but they would. He picked up the phone.

"Good morning, Roscoe. No, it's not Miss Pope. Thank-you for the welcome home. I'm very happy to be here. Everything is fine. Miss Pope is very well. She's still asleep. Actually, I do need something. What I need is for you guys to find a florist that can have minimum five or six dozen red roses delivered ASAP. Make it well worth their while. No, nothing on the card. I'll take care of that myself. No plans as of yet. Unless Miss Pope desires specifically to leave the premises, we will probably be in house today. After the floral delivery I would rather not be disturbed this morning if you will. If we should need you for anything, we'll call. Thanks Roscoe. I'll be sure to let Miss Pope know."

Flowers for Olivia and now some food for them both. What could he whip up that would most excite their palates this morning? He opened the refrigerator and took inventory. Next, he checked out the pantry. It amazed him that Olivia was so astute. She wasn't a breakfast person but he was. She had stocked the house with some of everything. There was plenty of bacon and other meats that he loved in the refrigerator and freezer. Eggs, loads of fresh fruit and vegetables lined the shelves. The pantry was stocked with herbs, spices, and condiments. He could whip up something delicious in no time at all. What could he entice his beautiful lady with this morning?

Yogurt and a piece of fruit was Olivia's normal go-to breakfast. He on the other hand was hungry for real food. He ate breakfast but he kept it light and usually without a lot of carbs. Ordinarily he limited himself to one carb-filled meal per day. With his daily workout routine, he had kept his body in top form. He had his father as a living example of hale and healthy. The man was well into his fifties. His father looked like an older brother. Also, after more than thirty years with the same woman, he still loved and desired only her. His mother felt the same way about his father. That type of love and devotion was what he hoped for with Olivia.

He gathered up the fixings for a bacon and spinach omelet. He also decided he would have some potatoes and onions. He started peeling potatoes. He was also going to poach some pears. Olivia was developing a taste for cooked fruit.

Olivia finally awakened. She turned over and reached for Fitz. For just a minute she froze. He was here with her. He should be with her in this bed! It wasn't a dream! He moved in yesterday! He was here somewhere. Fitz was here. She got up and covered her naked body with a tee shirt from the floor. She went to look for him. She wanted to see him and assure herself that she wasn't in the twilight zone. Wait! She smelled bacon. She was sure of it. She smiled brightly. Fitz was in her kitchen and he was cooking breakfast! She stretched and headed for the kitchen.

As she was walking down the hallway, she could see roses on the table behind the couch. There were more roses in the great room proper. She turned into the kitchen. There were red roses on the counters, on the island, red roses everywhere. Her knight had been busy while she was sleeping. She could see there was a card attached to the first roses she had seen. Olivia picked up the card and read it.

"You are the light of my life. I close my eyes at night thinking of you. My first waking moments are thinking of you. I've given you flowers only twice before when we were in the Caribbean. I've been remiss in my duties. Giving flowers is a symbol of caring, wanting, and loving. I love you Olivia and I promise to give you more and more flowers; roses, your favorite. I promise to give you the world, my dearest Olivia! Your own special knight, Fitzgerald Grant III."

His words made her heart soar. Was any man as romantic as hers? She was the luckiest woman on the planet and she knew it. They had been destined to meet and to love one another. She held the card in her hand over her heart. She turned toward the kitchen. Her face held the brightest smile.

His bare back was all she saw. He was wearing some pants that hung low on his waist. His back was well defined. He was muscular but not too much so. His hair was a curly mess. You could tell he had gotten out of the shower and had hand-combed it.

Fitz could feel her presence when she entered the room. He smiled. She was up. He turned around and Olivia's senses were simply devastated. The man was sexy as hell and he knew it. He was cooking breakfast in some pajama pants that hung low on his waist and nothing else. Her heart began a racing staccato.

"Good morning, sleepyhead. How are you? Did you get enough rest? You look beautiful by the way."

"Good morning, Mr. Bright and Early. I slept very well, thank-you. And you look beautiful too." The way those pants hung on his waist showed off his perfect physique including a badass vee! Her heart was already racing. Olivia felt her pussy clench. Damn, she was needy! She wanted him badly.

"I could smell breakfast in the hallway. And you've turned my kitchen and great room into a floral wonderland. Thank-you for the beautiful roses. There isn't even a special occasion."

"Yes, there is. We live together now. Come here and give me a good morning kiss."

"Fitz, I got out of the bed and threw on this tee. I need to shower and brush my teeth before I come near you. You are up and showered and smelling wonderful I bet."

"Olivia, come here and give me a kiss. You were sleeping so soundly I didn't have the heart to awaken you knowing the type of day you had yesterday. I love kissing you first thing in the morning and you know it. You always smell and taste good to me. Come here."

"Fitz."

"Olivia? Come here."

She couldn't resist the man and he knew it. She came to him and he pulled her into his arms. That was his tee she was wearing. He knew she was naked underneath it and it was making him burn! He had drawn her into a passionate kiss. She kissed him back morning breath and all. He cupped her butt and molded her to him. He was hard and needy. She stood on her tip toes to conform her body to his. Damn he felt good. Their kiss had become fire! One of them had to be reasonable. She was naked but she was stuffed with a tampon.

"Fitz, you're cooking and I'm hardly presentable as I just woke up. I'm in need of a shower. I followed the scent of bacon out here. I can't… I need to shower and stuff. How long before breakfast is ready?"

"Once these potatoes are done the omelet will only take a few minutes. I apologize for jumping you like that. I forgot that we can't…"

"I know that you did. You almost made me forget. Let's slow everything down a bit? I need at least twenty minutes to make myself presentable.

"Take as long as you need, Sweet Baby. I'll make the omelet when you get back. I can keep the bacon and potatoes warm. One thing though."

"What's that?"

"I like you in that tee. Can you put it back on or find you a clean one in my tee shirt drawer? I want to sit across from you looking at you in my shirt."

"Done, Mr. Grant. Thanks again for the roses. I'll be back shortly."

He watched her sashay out of the room. God, she was beautiful. And since he knew that there was a God, today was going to be the last day of her period. At some point today he would get to make love to her, thoroughly. He didn't think he could go another day without her. It was one thing to be wanting her two or three states away. That was bearable. Having her in the same house and in the same bed, it was too much. Last night had been hard. He had been hard, hard as stone. He had lain there holding her, watching her sleep, willing his erection to die.

She had offered herself to him without benefit of intercourse. Intercourse wasn't the end-all of the sexual experience. He knew that. Oral and manual stimulation could and had been very satisfying with Olivia. These past months, she had absorbed so much. She gave as good as she got and thus far, she had refused him nothing in and out of their bed. She was the perfect partner and mate. They had embarked on an incredible journey within the sexual realm. There was a lifetime for them to explore it!

He attempted to get back into the mode he was in before Olivia came into the kitchen dressed only in his tee shirt. It wasn't that easy to do. He had been on as Olivia called it "fuck alert" for days. He had imagined himself spilling inside of her any number of times by now. If he had perhaps his dick would obey him and release the blood that filled it. He turned back to the potatoes and took a deep breath.

Olivia would let him know when and if her period was over. They had never encountered hinderances to their lovemaking before. When they wanted each other, they engaged. They both had forgotten for just a moment. They could create fire in a matter of minutes if not seconds. Olivia naked under his tee shirt had him hot as hell. What had she said? Today was the last day, right? Finish breakfast Grant and wait for your woman. Tell your dick to calm down and you be the gentleman your Maman raised you to be. You are a master of control, act like it!

Olivia was so obviously on fuck alert. If she had not been ending her period right now, she would have allowed Fitz to take her right in the kitchen however he wanted her. And he did want her. She had felt all that power within him waiting to be unleashed and she wanted him too. She pulled the tee shirt over her head and walked into the bathroom. This was the final day of her period. A quick trip to the toilet confirmed it for her. She flushed the last evidence of her period down the toilet. She could make love with her fiancé today, thoroughly. Olivia smiled and got into the shower. Coming out refreshed, renewed, and anticipatory; she couldn't be more happy!

Quickly she finished her morning rituals. After brushing her teeth and gargling she quickly slathered her body with her creams and emollients. Next came deodorant and her special scent. It wa placed behind her ears, on her neck, and between her breasts. For good measure she rubbed a small amount through her bush. Fitz loved her scent everywhere and most especially there. This morning, this round, whenever it occurred it was going to be thorough. Happy and over the moon, Olivia walked to his drawer filled with his expensive tees. She found a black one with a vee neck and slid it on. She ran her hand through the riot of curls on her head and let them frame her face. Lastly, she covered her lips in his favorite shade. She wasn't really hungry, especially not for food. While her boyfriend was eating, she intended to create some fire!

When Olivia walked back into the kitchen thirty minutes later Fitz was on his phone checking messages. He looked up and he did a double take. She was wearing one of his black tees and he knew she was naked underneath it. Why? Because her nipples were clearly puckered and visible. Her hair was curly and damp from her shower. Her face was makeup free except for that damned purple lipstick he loved. When her mouth, when her lips, when she took him in… Stop it Fitz! Breakfast, you are about to eat breakfast!

"You're back and you look fetching Miss Pope. That tee shirt looks fabulous on you. Have a seat while I put the omelet in the pan. What type of juice do you want?"

"I'll have whatever you're having. We only need one omelet. Just give me a small piece of yours. In fact, just a small plate for me."

"Of course." He turned from her and started the omelet. In a matter of minutes, it was done. He opened up the warmer and took out the poached pears and potatoes. He fixed her a plate first and placed it in front of her. "Eat up Livvy." He sat down and started to eat. He was hungry but his eyes hadn't left her since he sat at the table.

"This looks wonderful Fitz. Thanks for caring. Oh my goodness, this pear is so delicious. Pear poached in pear brandy, right? And the butter and the spice, it's divine! The omelet and potatoes are great too. It's going to be wonderful living with a chef."

"Yes, the food is good. Especially the pear, the brandy really sets it off." In between bites he spoke. "What are we going to do today, Miss Pope? Did you have anything in mind? What do you usually do with your weekends if you're free?"

"To be honest, if you weren't here, I would've gone back to the free clinic today or I would have spent an inordinate amount of time in my medical books reading and absorbing things. Medical knowledge is unending you know. Things are always changing and the more you know. The better armed you are to fight for a patient."

"Without a doubt you are going to be a fine physician. You are going to make your Nana so proud. But I am here, with you. When we are done eating, what shall we do with our day? It's cold outside but I would brave it for you. I'm going to be full as a tic in a very few minutes. In fact, this could very well be a wrap as far as food is concerned. What are we going to do today, Miss Pope?"

"Whatever you want Fitz. Whatever you want." Her tongue peeked out to wet her lips after she spoke. Fitz' throat had gone dry but he was still able to speak.

"Whatever I want is you. I need you in the worst way. Are we cleared for today yet?"

"We are. All I want is you too. Are you done eating?" His fork dropped to his plate. Of course, he was done. Olivia stood up from the table and walked over to him. She touched his face and ran her finger around the rims of his lips.

"I've missed you so much. I've needed you so much. Thanks again for the roses." She straddled him in the chair placing her naked body right on top of his already raging erection. The only thing separating them was the thin fabric of his pajama pants. She had worn only the tee as he had asked. She first placed sweet little kisses all over his face. Next, she lowered her mouth to his chest. She sucked his nipples hard and teased them with little bites from her teeth. This was in tandem with her pussy inundating on his dick. Shit! He felt so damned good! She could hear the little hissing sounds Fitz made when something felt good to him. She loved it when he burned for her! She began to rim the whorls of his ear with her tongue.

"Dammit girl. We won't get to a bed if you keep this up. I need to be inside of you so damned badly."

"Who said anything about a bed? Get out of those pants, Mr. Grant." She stood up for him to facilitate the move. He pushed the pants down to his feet, kicked them aside, and sat back down. Olivia pulled the tee over her head and sat back down atop of him. She looked down and placed her hands on his long hard dick and she started to pump him. "I've missed you so much. I've missed this so much. I'm glad you're home."

She knew just how to handle him. He moved into her hands loving everything that she did. She knew she was already wet. He sucked and laved her breasts just the way she liked. When he had begun to leak, she positioned him where he wanted to be and she slowly eased him inside. It was a production that he savored, Olivia lowering her sweet pussy onto him. She eased down on him very seductively. Her eyes never left his. When she had taken him all in, she began to ride him slowly, up and down. She was taking him in so deep and he felt so good.

"I could ride you all day Fitz. I swear I could! Don't you move yet. It's all me right now. It's right where I want it. It's so fucking good! Can I ride it all day, if I want?"

"I'll let you Livvy, I promise. Ride, Sweet Baby, ride ike you own it because you do." She used the floor like stirrups, using the leverage to screw him deep and hard. He continued to manipulate her breasts as they stared at one another mesmerized as she rode him. One of those huge veins that filled him so hard and full was aligned with her clit as she rose and fell. It was divine. She was about to burst!

"I'm going to come Fitz, help me!" He latched from one breast to another sucking her hard. Then releasing the nipple to apply soft bites. Frantically she rose and fell, screwing him. He felt so good. She felt so good. He was in so deep. Olivia's head felt back. She was there. She screamed his name as she convulsed on his big dick. He grabbed her waist and held her tightly as he began to screw her. It was his turn. He pumped hard and deep into her prolonging her pleasure. She had collapsed onto him, her breathing deep and then shallow. He slowed down. Circling inside of her absorbing the jolts of her continuing orgasm. He awakened her from the little death with a passionate kiss.

"Come back to me Livvy. We aren't done."

"Oh my god Fitz. I don't want us to be done. That was incredible."

"Yes, it was. It's going to get better. I promise. Hold on Sweet Baby, I need you to come again for me. I want to feel you milking me dry Livvy, when I fill you up."

With his powerful hands he anchored her to him for his thrusts. He needed her in the worst way. For weeks he had dreamed of being inside of her. For weeks the sensations he knew he would feel had invaded his brain and sat waiting. Not a day had gone by and he hadn't thought of this. There were so many reasons that he loved her, some tangible some not. What they shared in the sexual realm amazed him. She completed him, made him whole. He had found his mate, his muse, his love for life. He was grateful. Olivia was back looking into his eyes.

"I will come just for you. You love me so good, so thorough." He was steadily driving into her like a piston. When Fitz held the reins, she felt even more. He knew exactly where to stroke her inside. She held on whispering in his ear how much she loved what he was doing.

"Hold on Sweet Baby, we're moving. Clasp your legs around me and enchant me sweet girl while I walk us down the hallway." He walked them with purposeful intent into their bedroom. In the meantime, Olivia's body inundated over him, working her magic.

He praised the magic. "Girl, I like the way you work it. I may stay inside of you all morning, all day." He slammed the door shut with one hand and pivoted them to the bed. The height of the bed had proven to be just right for the two of them. He stopped at the edge of the bed and positioned her there. He wasted no time placing her legs on his shoulders. He pulled back to watch himself go in and out of her. On every stroke you could hear his pleasure as he hissed and pulled air into his lungs.

"So pretty and pink surrounded by my own personal bush. It is mine, isn't it Livvy?

"Yes, it's all yours."

"Are you ready to come again, with me? I want to feel you hold on to me Sweet Baby. Where's that sweet little love bud of yours?" He wet his thumb and found it. Gently he rubbed back and forth across the hardened bundle of nerves. Olivia arched up on him. The move elicited unintelligible sounds from her. He had her poised for her second orgasm. Changing positions, he bent to suckle and fondle her breasts adding to their heat and excitement. Meanwhile his big dick plundered within her creating an out of this world friction.

Olivia was the first to break. She grabbed onto his arms and started the little pants that normally preceded her release. "I'm coming! Fitz! Don't stop!" She fell back on the bed and let the orgasm overtake her. It was powerful. Her contractions were coming in waves. Fitz buried himself to the hilt to feel them all.

She felt so good. He had to come. She was demanding it. "Oh my god, Livvy! It's so good! You're so fucking tight." He gave over to his lust and began to eagerly stroke himself to climax. He was powerless against the urge to mate. He knew he had become relentless. "Hold onto Sweet Baby, hold tight!"

Slightly recovered from her mind-blowing orgasm; Olivia held on tight. She urged him on, praising him. His ardor had re-awakened hers. She was so close to exploding again. She tried to capture his pace but he was in that place, that zone he entered before orgasm. Ahh, there it was! He had found her spot, hitting it just right. She whispered in ear that she was coming again. Her words sent him over the edge.

He roared out her name as he gave one final thrust and spilled himself deep inside of her. He collapsed on top of her. The little death claiming him. For what seemed like an eternity he could only lie there and feel as her contractions kept his body in orgasmic bliss. Had he ever come so hard and long? When he could control his senses and speak again, he removed the bulk of his weigh from her.

"Are you alright Sweet Baby? You unman me, Olivia. I lose myself so completely when I'm inside of you. You give me everything. I would never, ever want to hurt you. Are you sure you're alright?"

"I'm fine my sweet knight. I delight in your power. Yes, you lose yourself as do I. And it's the most wonderful thing that I've ever experienced. I tell you again, change nothing that you do! Just love me as I do you. I love every minute that we share and I love you so much."

Both of them were spent and deeply content at the moment. Fitz gave them both some time to recover before he disengaged from her. "Move up in the bed Sweetheart. Let me hold you." He climbed up in the bed and gathered her in his arms. "I love you so much Olivia. You're everything to me. I'm so glad to be here with you."

"Again, my sweet, sweet knight; I love you too. Today, this morning has meant more to me than anything. As you have said, you're here with me, and because of that my life has changed. It's all for the better by the way. You've done nothing but enhance my life. I'm a better woman and a better human. You moved in yesterday and today you just made the sweetest love to me. I'm more than glad that you are here with me."

"Where were we Sweet Baby?" Their morning of love was just beginning. They were hardly done!

"We just concluded round one with a tally of Olivia three, and Fitz one. I'm about to change that though. Lie back and let me love you." He laid down on the bed and waited for his love. Very little had changed. He had just had a mind-blowing climax all of ten minutes ago, yet he was semi-hard. She came to his mouth and kissed him passionately, lovingly. Then she trailed kisses down his throat, his chest, his abdomen, and finally to where she intended to go. The images of Olivia and the things that she did with her sweet mouth were no longer fantasy. Fitzgerald Grant was in heaven.

Hours later they emerged from the shower. They were happy and in love. Their robust morning of lovemaking had invigorated them both. They had expended a lot of energy in the last several hours. There had been a round two and three. They dressed in harmonious spirit. Their sexual appetites were sated for the moment. And they were in love. With each other.

"Are you hungry? Breakfast was quite a while ago. I'm fine but what about you Fitz. You want to get some lunch?"

"Maybe later. We were about to start our day when you presented a distraction Miss Pope by sitting in my lap."

"Really? And what did you do? You set me up with roses, breakfast, and a swift seduction. You know I can't resist you saying how much you need me. I just melt when you say that."

"I know. I like having you melt. Let's not discuss melting or we could find ourselves back in that bed. Getting back on tract what are our plans for today?"

"We could go over to Boston proper. It is cold out but I'd love to show you around a bit, including the medical school and the clinic. My advisor should be finishing up her Saturday class shortly. I want you to meet her. My friend Donica has clinic duty today. You could also meet her. And if the weather stays clear I could take you to a couple of tourist spots. There's quite a bit of American history here you know."

"I do know. I've been here several times on business but never as a tourist."

"Actually, you aren't a tourist now, you live here with me."

"I stand corrected. I live here now with you. Those plans sound wonderful. There's one thing I insist upon doing before we leave this house though."

"And what is that? You want to get frisky again?"

"No, not that. I want you to get your engagement ring out of the safe. I want to place it back on your finger. We're engaged Olivia and I want the entire world to know it. I'm hoping you feel the same way."

"Of course, I feel the same way. To be honest after we put it away waiting for security to put everything in place, I decided not to think about it. Thinking about my beautiful ring being locked away instead of on my finger made me extremely sad. I sort of decompartmentalized what was happening. Once we got the all clear, it should have been one of the first things on my mind. I was so happy that you had moved in I forgot about anything else. I hope you know how much being engaged to you means to me. I'm sorry that my thoughts were elsewhere and that I didn't bring up myself."

"No need to be sorry, Olivia. I understand perfectly where we are in our relationship. I know where your thoughts have been. In exactly the same place mine have been, getting me moved in with you. I'm here and I'm here to stay until medicine takes you someplace else. I'm home. Our relationship is cleared to become public. It will be public any time now. I agree, my ring should be on your finger."

"Yes, it should. Wait right here."

Olivia walked into her study and walked up to the beautiful painting she had brought from home. It was a picturesque rendering of her home island, Grand Caymans. It was done by a local artist that was on the fast track to stardom. She always missed home even though there had been much turmoil there. Looking at that painting always kept her grounded as she studied in Atlanta and now in Cambridge. Behind the piece was her wall safe. She moved the painting aside and opened the safe. She reached inside and retrieved the velvet satchel that held ring. She removed the ring and held it up into the light. She admired the beautiful piece of jewelry. Fitz had paid a small fortune for it. She should have put it on first thing last night!

She walked back into the room smiling. Her fiancé was smiling too. This morning and now this afternoon was turning into quite an occurrence. The food and the lovemaking had been excellent. Now this! This was them dedicating their lives to each other once again. It was a momentous occasion and Olivia wanted Fitz to know what it meant to her. He had been sitting on the loveseat in the bedroom waiting for her. He stood up when she came back into the bedroom.

"Sit back down Fitz. I know we are already official. You got down on your knees and proposed to me on Christmas Day. It was the most important and happy day of my life. I have loved you from the first moment we met. I saw things between us in the future, a future that I could've never imagined for myself. I saw it as clear as day. What I saw made me so happy. We are going to marry and we will have a family someday. Knowing those two things keep my life rolling. I love you Fitzgerald Grant. Sit back down. It's my turn to propose to you."

His sweet unconventional Olivia. The mold was broken after she was created. He loved her so much. That day in the Caymans when she turned around, he knew that she was the one. She was the one he had been waiting for all of his life. She was feisty, an undiscovered diamond, and she was his! He loved her unceremoniously and unconditionally. She wanted to propose to him? Of course, she did! Olivia always gave as good as she got! He sat back down and he waited.

Olivia got down before him on bended knee. She held up the satchel holding it by its satin golden strings. Her smile was wide and all consuming. She was very happy right now and Fitz knew it. He was happy too. In turn he smiled back at her.

"This Christmas past you proposed to me and made me the happiest of women. I truly didn't expect it. We had only met a month before but we both knew our destiny. It's why I didn't hesitate to sit with you that first night, spent the next day with you, nor give my body over to you shortly after that. I'd been taught all my life that my virginity was some coveted prize to be handed over to a husband on the wedding night. I knew differently as soon as we kissed. It was a gift that I was to share with you, only you.

We share such a special bond. We're more than sexually compatible. We are perfection! You are perfection and thank my lucky stars above, you are mine. I intend to have and to hold you forever. Inside of this satchel is the ring you placed on my finger months ago. Would you do me the honor of placing it there again? I truly want to marry you and have you as my husband. You, Sir Fitz, are my heart's desire."

He took the satchel from her and emptied the diamond ring into his palm. He held it up into the light. The ring was a symbol of the love he had for her. He wanted her to have and to hold for his very own as well. He reached out to touch her precious face. He reached for her left hand and brought it to his lips.

"I love you girl more than anything. Will you wear this ring which is a symbol of that love. A symbol that we will present to the world from this day forward. Will you marry me, Olivia Pope?"

"You didn't have to ask again. You know that I will. You're it for me Fitzgerald Grant."

"Come here and sit. Let me hold you and savor this moment."

Tears had formed in her eyes. Fitz hated to see her cry. She sat in his lap and turned her head from him. They were tears of joy but he still wouldn't like them. "I can't hold back the tears Fitz. I'm so happy right now. I can let the entire world know how much you love me."

He kissed the tears from her face and said, "Anyone that sees my face when I look at you, they know what I feel for you pure and simple, I love you with all my heart. You own me, Livvy. You always have."

They sealed the re-engagement with a passionate kiss. "Let's get dressed my love and descend on to Boston proper. I'd love to see where you are training, maybe meet some of your professors, and friends."

"That sounds lovely. Let's do it."

Meanwhile back in the Caymans Tessa Adderley was riding the elevator down to the garage. She was going into town to do some shopping. She was also planning to eat dinner in town. She still hadn't run into Jimmy since her divorce which was amazing. The Caymans were a tropical paradise but it wasn't a huge metropolis. The locals were part and parcel of the island. She'd been around town a lot in her new Jaguar but she had yet to see him. She lived in a development where allegedly his primary residence was located, yet she hadn't seen him.

She wasn't going to sweat it. She and James Lockheed had a history and they both would one day face a day of reckoning. For now, she wasn't going to dwell on that day. It would come and perhaps it would be someday soon. Speaking of Jimmy, didn't his resort have a very swanky restaurant that tourists flocked to? Her ex-husband used to brag on the steaks and smoked meats at the place.

Thomas Pope had banished pork from Overton Street years ago. She loved pork. She was going out for some ribs. She would love some smoked ones slathered in a rum-based honey glaze. The thought of having some ribs the way Jimmy used to fix them for her made her mouth water!

Meanwhile James Lockheed was reading a report on his desk. She had actually purchased a home in his neighborhood. He rarely slept in his mansion. He preferred to sleep at his resort. He had a small contingent of rooms just below the penthouse. He could access the place from his office behind an unsuspecting wall. Only people that needed to know even knew of its existence. Nights when he decided to work late, he would sleep there. He spent a lot of nights in that apartment.

What exactly was Tess doing? He knew she had gotten a very good settlement from her divorce but to purchase one of the more exclusive mansions in his neighborhood? She had purchased not one but two Jaguars? Of course, her newly earned fortune was hers to spend as she chooses. She had chosen Tommy for esteem and money thirty years ago. Perhaps having money was still the basis for her existence. She had married for money and prestige of which he had none at the time. Perhaps she hadn't changed any at all in all these years. He was willing to admit he still loved the woman but he was never coming in second again to anything or anybody. He had money now, lots of it but it was just money. Without the things you truly wanted in life having money didn't mean shit!

So, what did it all mean still having Tessa Pope surveilled? He was a fool to do so and he knew it. It should have stopped years ago. Old habits die hard. And Tessa Pope was a bad habit of his. He still coveted her just as much as he ever did. He still wanted her as much as he ever did, but he was older and wiser. He had thought because she had professed her love for him night after night in his bed years ago that she was his. She hadn't been. That realization had nearly destroyed him. He had to pull himself from the brink to survive her treachery.

He needed to free his mind of her. Yes, she was free and just maybe she was sending some signals. Why, and for what reason he didn't know. What he did know was that she couldn't be trusted with his heart ever again! Even if she were free and unencumbered his thoughts should be kept to himself! The woman that he had loved more than anything was not who he thought her to be. Yes, she was free! She was no longer under the thumb and will of a man he had called best friend. Even with those facts it didn't mean he was free to pursue her. It didn't mean anything!

Back in Boston their day had been a perfect one. After a morning of torrid lovemaking and a commitment of renewal, they were simply enjoying each other's company. It meant the world that they were together. It meant the world that they had altered their lives for one another. Fitz had been so proud to stand beside Olivia and be introduced as her fiancé. He cherished the role and had long wanted to world to know. Olivia had a knowing smile on her face as well. Fitzgerald Grant was hers and she wanted to world to know. They had started at the medical school touring the campus. Olivia had hoped to see Dr. Mendelson this morning. She would very much love for Fitz to meet her.

Her Mentor and advisor, Dr. Lara Mendelson, had taken Olivia under her wing. The woman had been more than mentor and advisor. Over the years she had come to see her as a friend. Their love of medicine had been instrumental in the friendship. Dr. Mendelson was drawn to Olivia Pope from the first. The girl was absolutely brilliant. She absorbed knowledge like a sponge. Unlike some med students of today, she could not only repeat the correct answer but she understood why! She had excelled during her time here with honors. She was going to make a fine physician.

Because of their underlying friendship Dr. Mendelson had known that Olivia's mind was elsewhere after she returned to classes after the holidays. When Olivia had come to her distressed after the Thanksgiving holidays she couldn't imagine why. The girl had a one tract mind and it was all directed toward medicine. She had never seen a more dedicated student. She believed that she was still dedicated but Olivia Pope had gone and fell in love.

Lara Mendelson had foregone love all those years ago letting nothing step ahead of her and medicine. She had loved and she had lost. Love didn't show up again until she was in her forties. Her husband was several years younger than she. They both had wanted children. Sadly, she hadn't been able to conceive. It had been a severe blow to her. Luckily Marty had loved her enough. They had chosen adoption and it had completed them. They had raised two beautiful children together, a son and a daughter. Her son and daughter had given she and Marty beautiful grandchildren.

Olivia eventually shared with her that she had met someone over the holidays. She wanted to spend the upcoming Christmas holiday with the man and his family in California. Missing classes wasn't the problem. Olivia's brilliant mind and photographic memory could withstand a month of missed classes. The rule was that anything more than a three-day absence had to be okayed by your advisor. Her peers had insinuated to ask for the days off period could be medical suicide. It simply wasn't done!

Most students wouldn't have dared to approach an advisor and talk of love at first sight and a desire to meet possible future family in-laws. Olivia had dared by simply telling her the truth. And she in her whimsy and respect for the girl had okayed it. She had been right to do so. Standing here talking to the two of them it was obvious that they were deeply in love. She doubted very little if anything would keep them apart. The girl's fiancé was totally smitten by Olivia. His love for her shining brightly in his eyes. The same could be said of Olivia. She had seen many sides of Olivia over the past four years but never such a vulnerable side. It had reminded her of herself all those years ago when she had been alone and in love without a kind soul to turn to.

"I wanted to personally thank-you Dr. Mendelson for giving Olivia the ability to come to California and spend the holiday with me and my family. It allowed us to cement our relationship and arrive at the place we are now. Olivia needed a friend and that was you."

"I was glad to help Olivia. I'm pleased to have helped you two toward this special occasion in your lives. That is one of the most gorgeous rings I've ever seen. It's beautiful Olivia. An excellent choice Mr. Grant."

"It is beautiful. I can hardly believe that I'm engaged to be married. I've never been happier."

"I can tell Olivia. Your happiness is written all over your face. Your fiancée is one of my… no, let's revise that. She's the most brilliant student I've ever encountered, Mr. Grant. It's been a pleasure to teach and mentor her. The boon I offered Olivia was in return for four years of immense satisfaction. Knowing that I have contributed to the making of such a fine physician will be my ultimate thank-you. Olivia is going to be a blessing to the medical profession."

"You were the blessing Dr. Mendelson. Not only were you an advisor and mentor, you were a friend. Your kindness will never be forgotten. I've thanked you before, but I will again. Thanks for helping me, for helping us. I'm glad you were in the office today. I wanted Fitz to meet you and to see my workplace so to speak. We are headed over to the Free Clinic now. Donica's working there today. I want him to meet her. Afterwards if weather permits, we plan to view the Boston Commons for a bit of history."

"Sounds like your day is going to be busy. Have fun. Again, good to meet you Mr. Grant and congratulations to you both on your engagement."

"Thank-you, Dr. Mendelson. I hope to see you again before our nuptials take place."

"I'll see you on Monday Dr. Mendelson."

The visit to the Free Clinic went smoothly. Saturday was a busy day but the director encouraged Olivia to come in and say hi to everyone. Olivia had been a mainstay at the clinic even before she became eligible to administer care under direction of a licensed physician. She was a valued member of the healthcare team. Introductions were made and most were enchanted. Fitz was his usual charming self and Olivia was positively radiant as she showed off her fiancé and her dazzling diamond ring. Olivia refused to disrupt the clinic so their visit was short.

Her friend Donica was very impressed with Fitz. She had pulled Olivia to the side saying how happy she was for her. "He is the bomb, girl. He's tall, gorgeous and if the papers were correct, he is as rich as could be. Most importantly he has eyes only for you. I'm so happy for you Olivia."

"Thanks, Donica. Now you see why my visit to California was so important to me. We're a couple and we are to be married."

"Again, Congratulations!"

They left the clinic and along with their detail and embarked on a little sight-seeing. They had opted for the hop on and hop off bus and trolley tours. You customized your own excursion. Fitz said okay to a couple of stops to include dinner and they were calling it a day. They hopped off to take pictures of the historic Massachusetts State House. It was a sight to behold with its 23-karat gold dome which is 30 feet high and 50 feet around. The state house which opened in 1798 is still the seat of government for the Commonwealth.

Beacon Hill was where their penthouse was being transformed. They walked the streets around the area of their new home taking in a few sights. They ended their excursion after visiting the bar that supplied the façade for the long running TV show Cheers. They decided to have a bite to eat there and call it a day. The both had hearty salads. Fitz also tried a "mug" of the clam chowder. Surprisingly it was quite good. Per usual the Boston evening had turned bitterly cold. Holding hands with eyes only for each other they along with their detail went back to their car.

The ride home was the usual for them. They couldn't keep their hands off of each other. The night promised to be one of sexual hunger and appeasement. They had a great day. Now it was time for a great night. The lovers said goodnight to their detail and went to bed. They would eventually sleep but it wouldn't be any time soon. As soon as they closed the bedroom door Fitz said, "Pull off your clothes."

Meanwhile back in Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, and New York City there were small articles on celebrity pages announcing the engagement of one Mr. Fitzgerald Grant III, international billionaire, entrepreneur, and playboy. The celebrity news described his bride to be as Miss Olivia Pope of the Caribbean Island of Grand Caymans. The future bride is a HBCU graduate and currently a medical student at Harvard. No date was set for the nuptials.

Fitz had told Olivia that they would be going public as of today. She had told her mother, brother, and Darcy a couple of days ago that they were now officially engaged. She continued to be estranged from her father. He would find out when he found out! The Grant family publicist had done a great job. Their well-kept secret was secret no more. Pictures of the two of them accompanied the article. They were officially an item and newsmakers.

The woman reading the LA Times experienced a streak of green envy run through her that struck her to the core. He looked at least five years younger. The woman that he was smiling at was an exquisite beauty. She looked radiant. She looked happy and so did he. He had never ever looked at her like that even in the beginning when she had thrown everything she had at him! He was going to remarry a foreigner? No way this little nobody was in the stratosphere of the Grants. How in the world had he met her?