Chapter 42
"Jimmy, what are you saying? You forgive me for keeping the truth about Olivia from you? There's hope for us? You still care about me? You want to…?"
"Tessa, take a deep breath and look at me. Do you see me going anywhere? You still don't understand the love that I have for you. It's unconditional always has been. I let you down Tessa. When you needed me most, I turned away from you. In the process I let a man that should've never been in your life into it. My pride interfered with common sense. I was deeply wounded by your rejection of what I knew to be true. I knew what you felt for me Tessa. You loved me. What we shared all those years ago was undeniable but I was cocky and so certain of us. When you supposedly chose Thomas Pope, I chose not to worry. I truly believed it to be farcical. I believed that even in your fantasy of riches and position, you would fall back to earth and realize that nothing was more important than us. I waited for you to return to me and say for just a moment you had lost your head. I waited and I waited.
Even when Thomas showed up at my door and said he was to marry, I expected to hear anyone's name as his bride but you. But it was you, Tessa. You had said yes to another man when I knew that you loved me! I died on the inside that day. And I thought I would spend my dying days hating you. I called you names that no man should call a woman. When I saw you in the streets, I turned the other way. I stayed away from you because the pain was unbearable. Years later when Thomas asked me to be godfather to his son. I laughed so hard at the irony until my heart started to weep all over again. Now to find out Olivia is my daughter is even more ironic. You and I both know that Tommy should've been mine as well.
I said yes to his request because at that moment I felt I had truly lost you if you would have children with the man. I decided to invest the love I had once shared with you into being a caretaker of your children. As you know I have always treated Tommy as a son. When you gave birth to Olivia, I was all too eager to be godfather once again. I have always felt she was mine and now I know."
"You believed Olivia was yours even before I told you the truth?"
"Not in that sense Tessa. It's just that I've always had an inexplicable bond with her. Not that Tommy and I weren't close but Olivia has always in my heart been mine. I can't really explain it. Now, knowing the truth, I understand why. Even when she was born early it never crossed my mind. I don't know why it didn't. She was born almost nine months to the day from the night that you spent with me. I was being too obstinate and contrary to see it. I chose to punish you for leaving me and blinded myself to an obvious truth. I have a daughter."
"Yes, you do Jimmy. And with all my heart I'm sorry I didn't tell you from the moment that I knew I carried her. I sometimes think that I lost my mind on that ride back to Overton Place. For a while as I rode on that bus, I considered dying rather than to go back there. My son was there. He was just a little boy and at the time he was almost as terrified of his father as I was. He hadn't started to abuse Tommy but as he did with me. His words would cut you to the bone and at your self-esteem. I went back for Tommy and when Thomas wouldn't let me take him with me, I stayed.
As I said to you earlier, my children deserved a better man to raise them. And they deserved a better mother. I failed them in so many ways. I'm so ashamed for staying and subjecting them to the life they knew on Overton Place. Before my marriage to Thomas, I was such a strong vibrant woman. I was full of hope, ambition, and dreams. I saw my own mother waste the majority of her life on a man unworthy of her. Yet I fell into the same trap, a similar type of pattern."
"Tessa this is why we must talk this out. We must talk about the good, the bad, and ugly. You have nothing to be ashamed of Tessa. You are woman that has lived in unimaginable conditions. I say this to you out loud because I'm not sure you fully accept and understand it yourself. You were a battered woman. You hid it from the world and your children. They believed that your husband only berated and belittled you. That is what you let them believe but we both know that's not the truth.
I know your son Tessa. He often spoke of your husband and his mouth toward you. He never mentioned once that you were battered. I know because I specifically asked him. Tommy wouldn't have allowed such a thing knowingly. As a child he had no voice but as a young boy growing into manhood, he wouldn't have tolerated it. As one that loved you, nor would I. I must admit to you that through your children I learned what I could of your life. You pretended in front of your kids that you were happy in the marriage. Why would you do such a thing and for so long?"
"I was ashamed of the life I was leading. I didn't want anyone to know. The first time my sisters saw the bruises on my body they were appalled. They insisted that I leave Thomas on the spot. I lied and told them that the violence had never happened before. Apparently, they knew better. When I wouldn't leave him, they refused to help me. My mindset at the time was that if my own sisters wouldn't help me who would?
Finding out I was pregnant with Olivia only moved me further into darkness. I felt all of my problems were of my own making. I was being punished for my choices. I deserved the way Thomas treated me. After all I married him knowing that I loved you. I had wished with all my heart that Tommy was yours. And now the second child I carried truly was yours.
Throughout the marriage I couldn't respond to him as a wife because I longed for the touch of another man. Whether Thomas suspected someone else I don't know. I only know he made it his life's work to punish me because I couldn't or wouldn't respond to him. He seemed to hate me for it. I tried to become small and stay out of his path as much as I could. I had deceived him. I married him under false pretenses. I felt he had a right to punish me and to subject me to his lust. I existed in his twisted world but it seemed so wrong."
"It was wrong Tessa. Every moment you have spent with Thomas Pope for the last thirty years has been wrong. The man was a batterer and a brute. Please don't try to justify his actions against you. Loveless or not, a marriage certificate doesn't give a man the right to abuse his wife. It's unconscionable what was done to you. On any level, in my mind it's criminal. You were a victim of Battered Wife Syndrome. Surely you must see that. To call it anything less is ludicrous."
"I never really saw it in such stark terms. I only suffered a few episodes of extreme violence. His usual MO was to punish me by pinching me and twisting my arms mostly. I fell down a couple of times pulling away from him and he kicked me when I was down. He told me I deserved to be punished because I didn't know how to be a proper wife. I felt his rough treatment in the bedroom was part of his sexual ritual. I dismissed it as abuse. The last fifteen years weren't as problematic as the first fifteen. I simply followed the rules he sat forward and allowed myself as well as my children to be berated and castigated on a regular basis. Foolishly I surmised that high level verbal abuse was better than physical abuse."
"All of it was battering Tessa. Surely you see that. First, he battered your body and then your mind. He bent you to his will through mind games. How did he control you? Was there a certain look, a kick under the table, or some private moment where he twisted an arm behind your back? Why were you wearing clothing to hide your body if he were not regularly battering you? Tell me that?"
"Your right. Throughout the course of the marriage, I had put a certain spin on it. I had made my bed and I would lie in it. I didn't love Thomas. I couldn't love him because I was deeply in love with you. I couldn't be the wife he wanted me to be because of it. I accepted his abuse as retribution for my sin against him. How could I have been so weak? Sitting here right now reliving my nightmare, I can see clearly that I was battered. Those early years were almost unbearable. Then I brought Olivia into it. And the way I brought her into it made me feel I was trapped. I had denied you paternity. I gave my daughter's birthright to another man. And in doing so I committed myself and my children to a life of penance each and every day.
I was such a bad mother Jimmy. My children suffered. How could I have done it? Allowed my children to be raised in that house. You are right! How many times did I close my mouth after being kicked or pinched under the table? How many times was I silenced with his fingernails piercing my skin? How often did I have an arm twisted behind my back? There was always some part of my body discolored. Oh my god! It's all racing through my mind right now like a freight train. The pain, hurt, and degradation, I can remember it. How much of his abuse have I suppressed? When did I start to believe my own lies? How much of it did my children realize? Am I even fit to have a relationship with you, with anyone?"
"I won't let you blame yourself Tessa for the villainy of Thomas Pope. He's a monster and the true villain of this piece. However, I must bear a portion of the responsibility for the cross you had to bear. I left you in his hands and for that I may never be able to forgive myself. But I'm asking you to Tessa. Forgive me for putting you in the hands of Thomas Pope. You deserved better!"
"Your heart's so big Jimmy. You would ask for forgiveness when none is due. We both made mistakes. Mine was egregious and caused us both unparalleled heart break. You were only playing with the cards that I dealt you. I can't ask you to bear this burden for both of us. You have said yourself that all in love is fair. All I seek is your forgiveness for the breech that tore us apart. I want us to repair our relationship. I believe that we can. Our conversation right this minute has been cathartic. At least now I can see that the blame isn't all mine."
"No, it wasn't Tessa. In fact, I must bear the brunt of the blame for this mess. You were an innocent girl when you came to me. Thomas Pope tore your maidenhead but I took your innocence. You and I both know that. I knew you in ways only a husband should. I should've married you long before Thomas Pope even came back to the island. I was trying to build a business for our future. I foolishly thought at the time that business building was more important than claiming you as my own! I thought I had all the time in the world to broach the subject of marriage and I did not. You had every right to believe that I wasn't on that course. I'm part the villain too"
"You, a villain? Never! I doubt that such a thing is in you. You are right, this conversation that we are having is long overdue. If only we had a conversation like this a quarter of a century ago our lives would be so different. We've wasted so much time Jimmy. I don't want to waste any more. I love you and you've said that you still love me. You've said there are to be stipulations. I must tell you that the first stipulation you have put forth, I don't like it. What are the others?"
"Tessa, we have found our way back to each other. It has been a long torturous road for both of us. And I'm not minimizing the hell you've gone through with Thomas. I suffered as well but in a much different vein of circumstances. Nonetheless I was going through some things I hope never to relive. I simply want the privilege of knowing that we belong to the other again. I want to share things with you. Spend time with you in the light of day. Not making love isn't carved in stone. We will get to that place believe me. I want you as much as I ever have. The anticipation of our sexual reunion is driving me crazy.
Spend some time with me Tessa. Neither one of us are the persons we left behind all of those years ago. We've changed because we had to. It shouldn't take us forever to rediscover each other. We both know that we still love each other. We never stopped despite all that has gone on over the years. We have a daughter that is now added to the mix. Let's relax and enjoy ourselves for a bit. Let's enjoy this second chance we've been given. Let me take you on an American holiday. I've seen glimpses of the woman you once were, full of life and fire. Let me put some of your lost joy back in your life. Let's put everything but you and I on the back burner.
Let's mend us as much as we can. I say that because as you can see, we have probably only touched the tip of the iceberg of the last thirty years. We offer each other a lot in regaining ourselves. However, neither one of us are a psychiatrist or psychologist. I believe that we both may need the services of a professional to put our entire ordeal in its proper perspective. I will stand with you in any capacity you choose. We are in this together.
"Jimmy, you were always so strong and wise. If only I had listened to you all those years ago, we could've bypassed so much hurt and ugliness. And wise you continue to be. The path you want us to take is very reasonable. I can see that now. Therapists may be exactly what we need. We are simply slowing things down and awaiting an inevitable conclusion. Our destinies are with each other. We are in this together. I like the sound of that. What are we to do on our American holiday?"
"I intend to surprise you. You used to love surprises. Do you have any obligations for the next several weeks?"
"No, because I no longer have to flit around an entire island trying to get the attention of my lost love. I'm as free as a bird."
"You never lost me Tessa. Not for one minute in all those years. I've been stubborn, mean, and ornery. I'm sorry for it. My love for you was never lost. I'm just a patient man."
"Yes, you are. Now I must be a patient woman. I promised myself I would never again sit around waiting for circumstances to change. I intended to go after what I wanted. I want you, Jimmy. I want you back with all my heart and soul. I want to be back in your bed. I have missed you and what we shared. I promise to try to be patient."
"That's all I'm asking for. We have a daughter Tessa that must fit into our rediscovery. She must be told of her true parentage. We must decide how and when to tell her. It's something we can decide as we rediscover each other on our American holiday."
"What about now, the rest of this morning? Will you stay here with me. I wish that you would."
"I haven't any intention of ever leaving you again Tessa. We have a breakfast to attend in a few hours. Let's discuss the tact we shall take with that and then we are going to get some sleep."
"You intend to sleep here in this suite with me?"
"I do. Unless you intend to have Grant Security throw me out."
"Of course not. I think I've made it very clear that I want you here. Preferably in my bed."
"Patience is an understated virtue, Tessa. You nor I have any more than any other person. We are both tired. I can see the weariness in you. Let me hold you in my arms and we shall sleep until morning. I wish to be in your bed also but not as your lover, yet."
"For the moment, I've agreed to the course you wish to take. I am weary. I didn't sleep very well last night. I have imagined you for days now in the arms of that brazen friend of Olivia's that has the hots for you. I saw your eyes glued to her breasts Jimmy. I thought you had gone to bed with her."
"Clear that thought from your head. There's only one woman I want to go to bed with. There's only one woman I intend to have sex with from this day forward. That woman is you. We have one more issue to discuss before we retire to your bedroom. What are your thoughts on when and how we tell our daughter that I am her true father?"
The banquet room was brimming with the aromas of freshly brewed coffees and teas. The refreshing smell of citrus and fresh fruit juices were in the air. The Grant guests were slowly filling up the dining room. Approximately twenty-five of them remained from the extraordinary celebratory weekend. The waiters would begin taking orders once the guest of honor arrived.
At exactly eight-fifty-five the guest of honor arrived on the arm of her fiancé Fitzgerald Grant III. They were a stunning couple and deeply in love as evidenced by their unrestrained level of PDA. It was the tale of the weekend how deeply in love the couple seemed to be. You rarely saw one without the other and their eyes were always trained on the other.
There was some mood music playing in the background. The couple greeted several of their guests as they made their way to their table. Fitz and Olivia were all happy smiles. The waiters began taking orders soon after they came in.
"Fitz, is it selfish of me to not want this weekend to end? It's been so perfect. Every aspect of it has been absolutely lovely. I haven't one complaint thanks to you. Your generosity toward my family, my friends and even your extended family is something I shall never forget. I love you for so many things but especially that. I can tell you're hungry. What are you having for breakfast this morning?"
"Thanks to you, I've worked up quite appetite this morning Ms. Pope. The porterhouse grilled in garlic butter sounds divine. A couple over-easy eggs and Boston potatoes should help me regain my strength."
"Expending a lot of energy doesn't increase my appetite. In fact, it suppresses it. As you know I'm not much of a breakfast person. I'm thinking a simple omelet with cheese and some fresh mixed fruit. I will get a kick out of watching you devour your bloody steak and potatoes. I love watching you eat. I'm going to miss it Fitz. Long weekends with you leave me wishing for more."
"I wish there could be more Olivia. If I could I would move here with you full time. It's not possible right now. My office runs very efficiently but I must show up time to time, I'm the boss. Drey will work hard as she can to extend our weekends. I'm sorry Sweet Baby. Things will get better I promise."
"Fitz, I know that as well as you do. You have an empire to oversee. I don't know why I brought it up. I'm practically oozing with happiness this morning. It just occurred to me that you're going back to New York tonight and a little unhappiness crept in. I'm going to miss you so much. That doesn't mean I'm not happy. I am. Please don't be sorry Fitz. You have responsibilities outside of your love for me. Things are good between us. I'm happy even when I'm a little sad. You're not leaving until what, around three am?"
"That's the plan. I have to be in court tomorrow morning. Having only a three-day work week means much is packed into my schedule. I'm not complaining. I would work twenty-four-hour days to insure my weekends with you. My schedule is fine Olivia. I'm fine. Things will only get better between us."
"I love you Fitzgerald Grant."
"I know you do Olivia Pope."
He turned her head and found her lips and proceeded to kiss her passionately at their private breakfast table. It was a shameless display of PDA.
Tommy, his wife, and the rest of the world that the two lovers had shut out looked on. It wasn't that unusual. It had been on display all weekend. The hotel staff seemed mesmerized by it. The heat from this latest kiss spread across the room. Tommy was seated at a table with his wife, his mother, Uncle Jimmy, Darcie and her current boyfriend. Darcie was the first to speak on the couple.
"Caro has found her man for sure. Thank God she realized that whatchamacallit back home was a loser. She and Fitz are a walking billboard for love. I'm so happy for her. Look at that!
"Yeah, look at that! I'm not going up there to break them up Sandy. You're welcome to try yourself. I told you that they're incorrigible."
"They are that. They're also in love. As far as I'm concerned, they get a pass."
"Sandy's right Tommy. They're in love. Let them be."
"It was never me to begin with Mother. Your daughter-in-law was concerned with all the PDA. I see nothing wrong with it."
"My bad. I've always seen Olivia as your little baby sister Tommy. She was the young island girl that had yet to grow up. She has grown up into a very adult woman. Apparently, she's also found a man that loves her very much and he doesn't care who knows it. This is a good thing."
"Yes, it is. I would accept nothing less for Olivia. Nor would her mother. Grant is very enamored of Olivia. He has placed a ring on her finger with intentions of marrying her. I have a certain degree of appreciation for a man that knows what he wants and declares himself. It's the way things should be done."
"I agree Uncle. I know a man in love when I see one. We have nothing to fear in that regard. Olivia has found her soul mate. She and Fitz are going to be fine. With Father not showing up here, this has been a perfect weekend. I hope you enjoyed yourself mother. It was good to see you smile so much this weekend. Did you rid yourself of your headache last night?"
"Yes Tommy. I had a perfectly fine evening once I did. As for Thomas Pope, I'm glad he didn't come to Boston. He surely would've tainted the weekend. He's done enough evil to this family. He nearly destroyed your marriage. You had problems of your own but your father's hate and bigotry only added fuel to the fire. I'm relieved to see that you and Cassandra continue to heal your marriage. If two people are willing to fight for the love between anything is possible. I strongly believe that!"
"Did Uncle Tommy ever find you last night mother? He was looking for you after you retired last night. I didn't know if it was a cause for concern. The two of you have always had an odd relationship. As I recall you two have avoided each other at all cost my entire life."
"He did. James and I had a disagreement long ago. We've decided to put it behind us. As you know, I'm now an independent woman with capital. Your Uncle is a brilliant man with a knack for investments. He's agreed to advise me. I appreciate his expertise."
"That a wise move mother. Who better to guide you than Uncle Jimmy a self-made man in his own right? I'm grateful to know you are guiding her, Uncle. You may be just what mother needs as an independent woman with capital."
"Your mother is a very smart woman, Tommy. She's very capable on her own accord but if I may be of service, I won't hesitate to help her."
"Good. Mother what are your plans after today? When do you head back home?"
"I've decided to stick around here for a few days and spend some time with Olivia. I've missed her. After that I'm not really sure. I haven't any reason to rush back to the island."
"No, you don't mother. Sandy and I are spending a few extra nights in the Big Apple. I was going to ask you if wanted to join us but you have other plans. Plans I'm sure Olivia will welcome. She has missed you too. You are staying over as well aren't you Uncle? Please keep an eye on my two other best girls, will you?"
"I will certainly do that. Where's our waiter. I'm hungry."
Breakfast was a delightful affair. After eating Olivia and Fitz went around to each table to express their gratitude to their remaining guests. They decided to make a circle. They started at the table of Fitz's family. They had spent quite a bit of time with each other's family last night. This was just a formal good morning and good-bye.
"Good morning; Maman, Dad, and Papa Joe. I trust the accommodations have been excellent. This was a whirlwind weekend. All of you must comeback once Olivia and I are in the penthouse. I know you have been to Boston before but you must come and allow Olivia to show it to you."
"Yes, you must. It may be months before I truly have some time off. However, I would be glad to see you here in Boston at any time. Thanks so much for making my graduation a priority with your busy schedules. If you don't already know, I'm so grateful for all of you. Thanks so much for coming and sharing this occasion with me. Have a safe trip back home."
They moved amongst the tables speaking to everyone personally thanking them for showing up for. The French contingency wasn't a surprise. The group of French aunts, uncles, and cousins were eager to see the woman that had stolen the heart of their beloved relative. Fitz loves his extended family and for those that hadn't met his wife to be, he wanted them to meet her. He had encouraged all that could to come to America.
His best friends from California were there with their wives. He and Olivia actually sat down at the breakfast table to talk to them. They had seen each other during the weekend festivities but not like he would have wanted. Damien, Lance, and Fitz shared a bond from growing up in Hollywood. The three of them had survived being the offspring of the rich and famous. They had survived without becoming Hollywood statistics.
"You guys, thanks so much for being here. It meant the world to me and Olivia to see your faces in the crowd. We would have loved to have had much more interaction with you. You are Lance are two of my closest friends. For you and your beautiful wives to travel across the country for Olivia warms my heart. I knew you would be here.
"Where else would we be Fitz? Don't fret about it, bro' we knew the deal. You were entertaining hundreds of people over this weekend. Plus, this weekend was about Olivia and her incredible accomplishment. Fitz is so proud of you Olivia. He lights up like a well-lit Christmas tree when he's speaking about you. You're going to be a fine physician. Graduating next to the top of your class at Harvard is exceptional."
"Thanks Damien, you too, Christy. Having you come all the way from California to share in my graduation festivities warms my heart too. I appreciate it. It means a great deal to me to share milestones with Fitz' family and friends. I know you are leaving soon. Please enjoy safe travels. I can't say with certainty that I will see you over the holiday season in Santa Barbara. I suspect my schedule won't allow it this year. I have such fond memories of last year."
"Yes, we do as well. And you two are engaged to be married? I knew that you wouldn't let her get away Fitz. It was obvious to me and Kimberly that you are totally into you Olivia. There were special vibes between the two of you that we'd never seen between before with the big guy here. The entire time he was married to…"
"Damien Hostler, if you dare to bring up that horrible woman's name at this table, I swear I will cut you off for a month! I mean it."
Both Fitz and his friend Lance let out peals of laughter directed at their friend. They both knew Christy wasn't joking. No sex for an entire month, for this guy? Damien's closed his mouth very quickly and his next words were very measured and contrite.
"Forgive my momentary lapse into unmentionable territory everyone. It's just that Fitz is so damned happy and finally out of a four-year fog of I don't know what; I lost my head for a minute. Sorry Babe, seeing Fitz returned to his old self and happy is the best news possible."
"You think so? It's not, Damien. Olivia and I are setting a wedding date at the end of the year. We've agreed to a short engagement. Now that's the best news possible in my book!"
"That is more great news isn't it, Kim? You work fast Grant but I expected you too. You two aren't a well-kept secret. You hit the tabloids as well as main stream media about a month ago. Even Stevie W. could see where this was headed. More congratulations are in order for you two."
"Yes, Congrats Fitz and Olivia! Lance and I are so happy for you."
"Thanks everyone again for coming here and sharing my successful matriculation at Harvard. It was an extraordinary experience, something I had aspired to my entire life. Medicine had been my entire focus for three and a half years and then I met this handsome wonderful man. Medicine remains a focus but not hardly the main one. Fitz asking me to marry him and share his life with him is everything to me. I no longer have a single focus. I'm so lucky that I have found him."
"Man, you have hit the motherlode. This one's a keeper!"
"You think I don't know that, Lance? I love this woman, more than anything. Again, thanks for showing up guys and have a save trip back to the coast. If Olivia's schedule is tight for the holidays, I most certainly won't come home without her. I do have some mandatory meetings in LA in late Spring of next year. I'll be certain to see you guys then. Later."
The couple went on to mingle with the French relatives. Olivia had been introduced to everyone last night. The thank-you and good-byes were short, sweet, and a lot of hugging. Finally, they arrived at the tables with Olivia's Aunts, Uncles, and cousins. It was amazing to watch Olivia slip back into her natural dialect and be so animated with her family. They were a loving family much like his own but larger. They invited him to be part of their conversations as they added new dimensions of his fiancée's life. Olivia was important to them and they wanted him to know that they now entrusted her care and protection to him, the man that had chosen to love her. They shared with him island antidotes about Olivia. They loved her very much too. It was obvious as they spoke.
Naomi Adderley took to the stage last. Fitz described her interaction that way because she was surely some reincarnation of some African Queen. She was an older woman that still had parts of youth and beauty still attached to her. She had lived a colorful exciting life her way. She told you so in no uncertain terms. Olivia was her pride and joy. She realized now that her favorite niece would never return to the Caymans full-time again. She had chosen her life in America. She had chosen him to love and protect her. He would do it well or there would be hell to pay. As she was speaking directly to Fitzgerald Grant her stance was clear. Aunt Naomi didn't play. She pulled them both to the side away from the others. It was obvious that she sought privacy.
"This precious gel has chosen you Fitzgerald Grant to love as a mate for life. She was a gem of the Caribbean and you have plucked her up and taken her from us, her family. She may have come back to us after finishing her medical studies but that we will never know, because you two found each other along the way. Without a doubt she loves you and you love her back. I can see that. Love conquers a lot but not all. Those of us lucky enough to experience love are usually happy, downright blissful, and most importantly sexually satisfied to the point that our toes do actually curl. Don't they Olivia?"
"Aunt Naomi, perhaps you go too far."
"No, I do not Olivia. I will speak very frank with Mr. Grant. I suspect that he accepts nothing less in his life than truth and frankness or we would not be at this phase of your adventure. Am I correct Mr. Grant?"
"Indeed, you are, Miss Adderley."
"Please address me as Aunt Naomi. We are to become family."
"We most definitely are Aunt Naomi."
"Good, then let me continue to be frank. Olivia is a woman grown but she has led a sheltered life down in the Caribbean. An antiquated life where men made the rules and most women foolishly chose to follow them. Trust me some chose not to. Olivia's relationship with that ridiculous Hanson boy was utter nonsense. She came to you a virgin did she not?
"Aunt Naomi!"
"She did. I was blessed with that precious gift."
"Yes, you were and I speak with all this frankness Mr. Grant because Olivia is precious to me. She is my niece but she's also the daughter I never had. She has come up in this world raised in the House of Pope which in my opinion is like saying you were raised basically in Edgar Allen Poe's the House of Usher. Olivia survived and has come out as a bright light. She's not unscathed though. Luckily her mother shielded her from the worst of it but that's a story for another day. My point is that I know you love my niece. That's a good thing. I'm asking you to care for her in the right way in all things. You hold her heart in your hands. Love her, but be kind and gentle with her. I will except nothing less in that vein!"
"I assure you Aunt Naomi that you have nothing to fear. I love Olivia with all my heart. I have loved her since the first day I saw her. We are in a committed relationship. Until my dying day I will love her and treat her with nothing but respect and kindness. I have had the luxury of growing up in a house where love resided in every corner. Once again, I was blessed. All that I am and hope to be I now share with Olivia. She holds my heart in her hands as well. I'm grateful for the privilege to love her. She's destined to be my wife and the mother of my children. I cherish that destiny and that is a fact! And Aunt Naomi, my friends call me Fitz."
"You handled that well. I should've prepared you more for Aunt Naomi. She shoots from the hip and bites her tongue with no one! I hope you weren't embarrassed or annoyed. She was testing you; you know. She wants to make sure that you love me and that we fit."
"Oh, I love you Ms. Pope. And correct me if I'm wrong. I think I can say with certainty that we fit. I intent to put it to test later today, several times if at all possible, assuring that we fit."
"Now see, aren't we lucky that I threw that antiquated Caribbean notion of saving virginity for marriage out the window? How else would we know that we fit? I'm still thinking that to make sure we pass Aunt Naomi's test we should speed up our goodbyes and retire to our suite. It's getting late though. Checkout is at noon. Maybe we could get a later one?"
"Do you really think I care about late checkout?"
"Actually, I know you don't"
Fitzgerald Grant III pulled his phone from his jacket pocket. He punched in a number.
"Hello. I'd like to speak to Mr. Herbert, please."
"Mr. Herbert is with a client at the moment. May I take a message?"
"This is Fitzgerald Grant. I'd like to speak to him as soon as possible."
"Fitzgerald Grant? Hold on a moment. There are notes that if you called, he's to be notified immediately. Please hold on."
"Of course." Olivia was looking at him shaking her head. Sixty seconds at the most she heard Fitz speak into the phone.
"Franklin, I'm glad you could take my call. Olivia and I have decided to spend one more night at your outstanding establishment. Will that be a problem? Excellent. Just add the extra night to my final bill. Yes. Thanks so much. You have one too. Good-bye."
"So, we have another day in this marvelous place. I may get to swing from the chandelier yet!"
"Yes, you may. Let's hit this last table and wrap this up. I know Tommy and Sandy are headed to New York City. I intend to have dinner with them on their last night in New York. Has your mother told you of her plans? I know you were hoping she could stay on a few days."
"Yes. She is staying over the rest of the week. Unfortunately I start nights this week but we can spend our days together. Remind me to let her know that we're spending another night here. Maybe she can join us for dinner or drinks tonight."
"That would be great. I know how much you have missed your mother. Maybe our spending another night here was meant to be. Your Uncle Jimmy is still here too. I know they're two of your favorite people. I'd love to get to know them better. This could be a start. Let's definitely set up something for later."
"That sounds like a perfect idea. Let's see what's up. Good morning you guys. I trust that breakfast was a delight. The food here all weekend has been delectable. Thanks so much for coming. I love you all so much and it's been a while since we were all together. Tommy and Sandy, I know you two head to NYC tomorrow. Uncle Jimmy you were planning to hang out anyway to finalize your acquisition of the townhouse. Any other plans?"
"No. Having not visited the States in a while I'm more or less hovering."
"The United States is a nice place to hover in. Fitz and I are spending one more night here in the hotel Mother. Would you join us for dinner tonight?"
"I would love too. Since your Uncle Jimmy is staying over as well. Maybe he can join us. Are you busy tonight, Jimmy?"
"Mother you took the words from my mouth! You two are actually speaking to each other? I can't believe it! Tommy did you hear that?"
"I did. Your graduation weekend has opened up new avenues. Whatever has caused all the discord between them, they've decided to put it behind them. They aren't exactly friends but they are agreeing to be cordial if not downright friendly. I'm thoroughly impressed and I love it. These two people practically raised us Fitz. To have them finally communicating after all these years means a lot to Olivia and I.
Uncle Jim is helping Mother with her investments. A single woman with capital needs advisors. Luckily Mother knows that. I think we can rest easy knowing she's not totally alone at home now. Father is still down there I assume as mean and crazy as ever. I've asked her several times to move to Arizona with us but she won't even discuss it."
"Tommy, you know how much I appreciate you and Sandy. Over the years you two have added so much serenity in my life when I needed it. However even with all the adversity I have faced in the Caymans, it's my home. I don't intend to leave it. I have purchased a new house there and I've started a new life. I will never again allow intimidation and fear to be part of my of it. I'm a divorcee starting over. I'll be fine on my own I assure you. Are you free Jimmy?"
"I am free and would be delighted to join you if that's an invitation from Olivia and Fitz."
"It goes without saying Uncle Jimmy. If I had known that you and Mother were on speaking terms, I would have extended the invitation first thing. This is wonderful that you two have patched up your differences. What on earth happened to end years of feuding between you two? I'm sure my father had something to do with it. He's been the protagonist for so much that is wrong in this family. No matter the reason for it, I'm so happy. You and Mother are two of my most favorite persons on the planet.
It's settled then. You and Mother will join me and Fitz for dinner here in the hotel. We have three of the most exclusive five-star restaurants in the city to choose from. Either one of you have a taste for anything in particular? We can leave the property if nothing here meets your fancy."
"Olivia, we can also dine in the suite if you want. We can order whatever we want. It can be prepared to specific order from the restaurant proper. We have options. Especially if you wish a more private and intimate dinner with your mother and Uncle Jimmy. Whatever you want. I can arrange it."
"Yes, you can! You are simply amazing my love. How lucky am I to have waited to find you. That's an excellent idea. Mother, you and Uncle Jimmy can join us in our suite for dinner. That way we can enjoy each other's company in private. I would love it!"
"Sounds great Olivia. Your mother and I have indeed managed to resolve the majority of our issues but I wouldn't want to intrude on your time together. I know how much your mother has missed you. This is the first time she's seen you in months. It's been nonstop with you two not really connecting because of all of the graduation activities. Don't feel like you have to include me. It's not a necessity."
"You're being ridiculous Uncle Jimmy. You're family. Mother knows that. I haven't seen you either. This will be good for us. Anyway, I'm curious what got you two talking again. To be honest this is flooring me the two of you on friendly terms. I've barely heard you say hello to Mother in twenty years. Whatever has changed between you two I'm happy about it."
"Well time and circumstances changes people hopefully for the best. Life is short and sometimes with age comes clarity."
"Your mother's right Olivia. Being here at your graduation made me see that whatever grievances Tessa and I had should be resolved. Our differences were a direct result of your father's duplicity. Your father isn't a very nice man and his antics over the years has affected all of us. What your mother and I did was to put him out of our minds and hearts. We remembered that we were friends long before Thomas Pope. In doing that we created a freedom of our minds and spirits from his chaos. I'm glad your father didn't show up here. He's swirling in bad karma. The type of karma that none of us need at the moment."
"As I said I'm just happy to see you in the same room without drama. It feels good. Promise me that the two of you will at least remain cordial now that you realize it's possible. It would make me so happy."
"Of course, Olivia. I think I can speak for your mother when I say your happiness is everything to us."
"Jimmy is right Olivia; your happiness is paramount to us."
"Darcie, you and Nnamdi are headed back after breakfast, right? It was good to see you two. Please know that you have a standing invite back here anytime."
"Thanks Caro. Everything has been great. Fitz thanks for a marvelous weekend. We have totally enjoyed ourselves."
"Darce's is right. The accommodations; the entire weekend was out of this world. You celebrate with flare Fitz. I was happy to be included."
"Our girls are BFF's man we are sort of stuck with each other!"
"I know that's right."
"Okay people, this is a wrap for us. We had a long night and we were early risers this morning. Most importantly this is Fitz' last day before he returns to the city. We have lots to do. Hopefully we'll all meet again sometime next year for our wedding if not before. We love you guys. Mother, Uncle Jimmy, we'll get in touch later on the particulars for dinner. Bye now."
"Mother, as you can see Olivia is going to be fine. I know we were all initially a little taken aback to see her enter into this relationship so quickly. I believe that it's sound. They are really in love with each other. That alone will take them far. Unfortunately, Sandy and I have to run also. We head to the airport in less than an hour. It was good seeing everyone.
Darcie so good to see you and to know that you too are happily involved. Uncle Jim, you and Mother resolving old issues and being on speaking terms is great news. Olivia and I have always wanted you two to be friends. The two people that we have loved and trusted most in this world now at least have a degree of communication. That on any level is heartwarming. I'm glad to see it."
"I am too Tommy. I'm beginning to see that it was an unnecessary breech. All of you have safe travels. And please keep in touch."
The table completely cleared except for James and Tessa. They were sitting staring at each other warmly but not speaking for several minutes. Jimmy reached out a hand to Tessa and she took it. She looked up at him and smiled.
"It's going to be alright Tessa. We're going to get through this. We aren't going to rush anything. We've already decided to take this slow. We are going to re-establish us, for us. Then we move on to our children, explain ourselves, and tell them the truth. Tommy suspects something but he respects us both enough to let us divulge the facts. I can appreciate that. What we have to tell Olivia isn't something you discuss over dinner. It's off the table for tonight in my opinion. I hope you agree."
"Absolutely! I'm also in agreement that we need to fully establish us, define what we are to each other. We both know at this moment that we love each other and want to be together. That's a good thing but we do need more. I'm beginning to see that clearly. I can't wait for our American holiday, Jimmy. I'm hoping that this dinner with Olivia and Fitz sees us off to a good start."
"It will. I'm sure of it. Look, I know of your plan to spend time with Olivia. Were you planning to spent nights with her? As you know I will be here the rest of the week. I hope you will plan to spend the time when Olivia is tied up becoming a great physician with me. I can arrange a car for you. As for right now my immediate plan is to sleep with you in my arms again tonight. In my head the only decision is your place or mine!"
"I like the sound of that Mr. Lockheed. Let me make that decision for you." Tessa opened her purse and retrieved the second key she had gotten the day she checked in. She handed Jimmy the key.
"What a wonderful morning Fitz. And once again thanks to you. We've said good-bye to everyone. We're having Mother and Uncle Jim for dinner tonight. I still can't believe they've reconciled their differences. They seemed to have disliked each immensely. I always expected that my father was somehow related to the breech between them. Whatever has mended the situation I'm happy about it."
"I'm happy you're happy Olivia. One of my main purposes in this life is to see that you are. Your mother has dropped a great albatross from around her neck. Her entire life has changed and all for the better since her divorce. I feel very good about her deciding to see your Uncle Jim as a friend. I think he could be trusted to look out for your mother down there. Of course, she's under the Grant umbrella of Security now. Someone on the inside with a bird's eye view may be helpful as she makes a complete break from your father. If you don't mind, I was thinking to broach the subject with Jim tonight after dinner. More or less just to see where his head is. I know he's your father's best friend but I don't believe he would allow misconduct from your father."
"That's a great idea Fitz. I don't mind at all. Uncle Jim is the nicest man. I've always wanted he and mother to be if not friends, at least not dire enemies. There you see, another reason for me to love you more. This special weekend that you created for me has inspired two humans that mean the world to me put their differences aside, for now. For some reason it makes me so happy to see them speaking to one another."
"Thanks, for all the extra credit Olivia but I think the time and place is probably not why this reconciliation occurred. As your father's good friend and the godparent of both you and Tommy, he's probably privy to somethings even we don't know. I can tell that he's a kind decent person. Your mother has probably begun to realize that as she is no longer under your father's control."
"I bet you're exactly right Fitz. Under my father's mind control games and manipulation my mother wasn't at all the woman we've seen this weekend. She seems very confident and sure of herself. That's another good thing. Enough about them. Let's move on to us.
So, now that you've spent another three-thousand-dollars for this suite, how do you want to spend the rest of our day? I was thinking dinner at around six or six-thirty. It's only eleven-thirty. Are we snoozing aka taking a nap or are we cadoodling aka doing the dirty deed in all areas of this joint? I'm up for either one. Dinner with the relatives could stretch out a bit. You have to be at the airport by 2:30 am correct? I don't want our last time together before you come home this week to be rushed. I want to bask in it."
"In other words, you want a marathon Ms. Pope?"
"I do, Mr. Grant. Are you up for that?"
"Feel this Sweet Baby and tell me whether you think I'm up for it."
"My own personal man of steel. The feel of you leaves me weak Fitz. I want you so much."
"Let's start in the jacuzzi then. And Livvie don't even bother with a swim suit. It will only slow us down. Go on and get undressed. I'll meet you there shortly. I need to speak with Drey about an issue for court tomorrow. I'm also going to order some things from room service. And Sweet Baby, don't start without me."
"Never. Hurry."
Olivia sat on the edge of the jacuzzi. Only her feet and ankles were submerged in the frothy bubbling water. She had pinned her hair atop of her head. Soft tendrils of hair framed her freshly scrubbed face. Her lips were glazed in his favorite shade. She was gloriously nude. Her caramel-colored skin glistening from the water she had splashed upon it. Her nipples were peaked and hardened from the soft breeze swirling in the magnificent bath. Also, they were hardened in anticipation of what was to come next. She and Fitz were about to embark on an afternoon of intense pleasure. Thinking about it had her core melting. He would find her wet and ready.
His call with Drey had taken a little longer than he had anticipated. Olivia was waiting for him. He didn't like to keep her waiting. Room service had arrived. The aroma of freshly popped corn filled the air. A dish of fresh strawberries was piled high. A bowl of recently whipped cream sat beside them chilling on ice. And of course, Olivia's favorite wine was chilling as well. He pushed the cart forward smiling as he rolled. This had been a perfect weekend. Olivia seemed pleased and happy. That was the entire purpose of it all. Her happiness. He had wanted this weekend to be more than just a celebration of her accomplishment. He wanted memories created for a lifetime. Memories that would make Olivia realize how much she wanted more of them with him.
They were engaged and soon to be married. His dreams were all coming true. Olivia choosing not to prolong their engagement had made him so happy. In his dreams he and Olivia were a family. They had children. More than one. They had made beautiful babies that addressed him as dadda. It was all very sappy but dreams were made to become true.
Olivia heard the rolling server and opened her eyes and smiled. She had been dreaming about their future. It was becoming clearer to her every day. Her life was forever connected to the wonderful man walking toward her. At the moment she was hot and she was bothered.
"I've been waiting for you. What took you so long? I've had visions of you rock-hard and moving in and out of me. I want you. I need you. You're over-dressed Mr. Grant. Take off your clothes and join me. Make love with me!"
"I've got several of your favorites here on this tray. Won't you at least let me ply you with popcorn and wine first? I had visions of rubbing parts of your body with strawberry juice and fresh cream. I had visions of licking it from your body. I had visions of you in my arms as I licked, sucked, and tugged at your sweet little clit making your body coil like a spring before you exploded on my face. I want you to come for me like you did on that first day on the beach. Your breasts sweetheart, look at them. Your nipples are so hard and firm. Almost as hard as me! They need my attention as does that sweet pussy of yours. Take a deep breath and wait for me. Watch me undress for you."
Olivia liked graphic sexual dialogue and so did he. The wicked banter turned them both on! Seductively he undressed himself, stepping from his boxers at last. He sprung out like a beast. Damn! He wanted to be inside of her too. Right this minute! Slow down, his body warned. You can't make memories acting like a green boy. At the moment Olivia had forgotten she had asked for a marathon. He hadn't forgotten. He would have to be the last one standing to accomplish that.
Olivia was surely a siren in a former life. She lured him the way no other woman ever had. She hadn't moved from her position on the edge of the jacuzzi but her eyes were trained upon him. Her gaze steadily on his rock-hard erection. Watching her watching him was making him stretch and grow.
Olivia could wait no longer! Her hands had moved to her breasts. She manipulated them herself. She tugged, pulled, and pinched. Her aureoles had darkened and her nipples were beckoning to him. Her tongue glided along her painted lips. She would taste him if he asked but that wasn't the mission right now. It was her turn to burn hot! He pushed the cart closer and he stepped into the pool of water. The wine, the popcorn, the strawberries and cream; they would all have to wait. They were both too needy!
The water temperature was exquisite. He went straight to her and stood in front of her. He took her mouth into a passionate kiss. Each of his hands palmed a breast kneading while his fingers found her nipples and began to answer their call. He left her mouth to suck on her breasts making her burn hotter! Her hands now freed, she reached for what she wanted and his sharp intake of breath assured her she had found it. One of his hands left her breast to find her core. His long middle finger entered her going deep. He started a gentle in and out penetration. She mewed and pressed her body into it as her own hand slowly glided up and down the length of him.
Ending his kisses, he whispered in her ear. "You're so damned wet. What do you want most right now Livvie? Tell me and let me give it to you."
"I need to come. I want to come quickly. Please, your mouth. I want your kisses there. Make me come Fitz."
"Will you be comfortable where you are? Shall we retire to the bed?"
"No! I need you now."
"Lie back then and let me love you."
Olivia laid back on the cold wet tile and she was relieved to an extent because she burned with the want of him. She had waited as long as she could but she had seen what was to happen. She'd had the vision just before he arrived. She knew how they would start but not how they would end. She opened her legs to him and he started to devour her. Slick and wet.
Fitz was meticulous in leading Olivia to what she wanted. First, he replaced his finger with his thick piercing tongue. In and out, seductively teasing her. She closed her eyes. She was moaning, moving into the thrusts he made with his tongue. The friction was absolutely unworldly, touching her G-spot precisely, driving her wild! He stopped that and began lapping at her juices letting his raspy tongue glide back and forth across her clit again and again. Next, he latched on and started an unimaginable suction. Her breathing became short and harsh. She was coiled and ready to spring. Sensation after sensation was rushing from her core to that bundle of nerves her fiancé was stroking and tugging on so expertly. She was letting out air from her lungs in little puffs. She was ready to explode. She reached for his head of gorgeous curls and pulled him to her to hold him there. God, she loved to come on his face! She screamed his name more than once before she collapsed back onto the tile.
He arose from the water enough to step between her legs. He pulled her up and cradled her up in his arms. He placed little sweet kisses all over her face before he let her taste herself on his lips.
"My Sweet, Sweet baby. Nobody comes the way you do. So fierce, so loud, so distinctive. I love you Livvie, so much."
Her heart still pounding from that mind-shattering release, Olivia reached out to touch his precious face. She knew that her entire body was now flushed with the tell-tale sign of her intense orgasm. How in the world was she so lucky?
"Oh my god, Fitz. That was so wonderful. I can still feel my body quivering from you loving me. You please me so much; I swear you do. I love you too. More than anything. What's next? What do you want?"
"I want you to wrap your legs around my waist Olivia."
"Around your waist! Whatever for, Fitzgerald Grant?"
"Because I'm about to lower your still quivering pussy onto my dick and do dastardly things to you while still in the jacuzzi, Ms. Pope. Are you up for that?"
"Lower me down Mr. Grant and see."
