Chapter 56
They were in their seats buckled up ready for take-off. Their hands were entwined while looking into each other's eyes. They were so in love. These next few hours were going to be sexy and hot. Without saying a word, it was obvious they were eager to be in the air. Once the captain declared they were free to move about the cabin, they were headed for the bedroom. Fitz had fire in his eyes. Olivia had a siren's smile.
"You're so damn beautiful! I could stare at you all day long. I've missed you. I like seeing you smiling like this. You're so happy and carefree. This is what I want for you Olivia!"
"I am so happy and I've missed you too. I'm so glad we have hours to reacquaint ourselves with each other. It was a whirlwind night and the morning flew by. Now we're headed home. Fitz, thank-you a thousand times for enabling me to come to Las Vegas. Momma was so happy to have me there as her maid of honor. The entire wedding was so beautiful. I loved the simplicity of it. They have waited so long to be together. I could never imagine being separated from you for thirty years. Their love story still boggles my mind!
Uncle Jim took a vow of celibacy weeks ago when they first reconciled. You see, all those years ago, in essence he took my mother's virginity. Then he stood by and let another man marry her. Because of his inaction my mother endured years of Thomas Pope's cruelty. It was something he deeply regrets. The vow that he took was to show honor to my mother this time around. My mother said today will be the first time they've truly been together since I was conceived. It's all very romantic when you know their full history. My mother shared even more of their story this morning before the wedding. Fitz, I pray we will have a lasting love like that."
"Without a doubt, we will. This past week has meant a lot to me. I came to Boston to be with you when you learned of your true parentage. I couldn't allow you to face such news alone. You were exceptional Olivia, the way you processed everything. You listened intently and asked the hard questions of both your parents."
"I love them both so much. It was so very important for me to understand what happened between them. All of these years loving each other and living separate lives. Thomas Pope will be livid when he finds out they have married. You see, I'm sure he thought to control my mother for the rest of her life. She outsmarted him, I'm glad to say. I'm happy that my parents are together. I'm happy to know that I was created out of love Fitz. It gives me an entirely different perspective of love and marriage. The main thing being that I love you Fitzgerald Grant. I can't wait to marry you."
"We'll set our wedding date in December just as we planned. You have but to decide on a day. Rest assured that I will be there."
"As you know, I've made up my mind that I didn't want a prolonged engagement. And you know that I research everything! I'm doing the gender specific research and stats on female residents and motherhood. Most documented data involved research on my married male counterpart but there was some content on females. Some of it is very interesting. I don't want us to wait years after we are married to have children. I know how much you desire a family of your own. I want that also. I shared with you all of my hopes and dreams when we first met. Many are the same as yours, including wanting a family. I want you to know that."
"Olivia, you are all I've ever wanted from the moment we met. Anything else is a bonus. We will marry and eventually start a family. There's no rush. I'm a very patient man when it comes to you. Simply share your life with me Olivia. That's all I'm asking for now."
"You are a wonderful man and I'm a very lucky woman. I can't wait to get you naked. I remember love at thirty-thousand feet. It's incredible!"
"Yes, it is. Especially when it's done with an incredible woman. The captain says we are looking at about five and half hours of flying time back to Boston. We're in no rush on this return trip. Your relief is in place. However, you will be working a twelve-hour shift once we land. No more than two hours of fun in the skies Olivia. You have to sleep a bit before we land."
"I will be fine. I know you Fitzgerald Grant. You can produce some amazing numbers in the Olivia column in a few hours. I want you well satisfied too. You deserve special consideration. I intend to see that you get it. I plan to devour you, Mr. Grant."
"My dear Sweet Baby, I can't wait."
Meanwhile back in the honeymoon suite at the Bellagio, Mr. and Mrs. Lockheed were both gasping for air. They had recently proven age was just a number. Middle-aged couples had stamina too! James hadn't been able to get enough of his wife. His wife felt exactly the same.
"I'm crying Uncle! Dammit Tess, are you trying to kill your husband? I'm an old man. I haven't made love like than in twenty-five years. You take my breath away. I swear you do. God, I love you. You can't possibly know how often I've dreamed of us being together again."
"And now it's true and I'm your wife. You were wonderful too. Everything was just perfect. It did feel like old times. It felt so good being in your arms again. Our first time as husband and wife, I will never forget it. The way you lost yourself inside of me. I loved it. You made me remember why I fell so deeply in love with you. You're still the most extraordinary lover Jimmy. I pray these walls are sound proof!"
"So, do I. My wife is such a tiger in bed and she's a screamer! You were unbelievable Tess. It's like we haven't been apart a day, yet alone a quarter of a century. I'm never going to let you go again. Now that you are wedded and bedded. How would you like to spend the rest of your day? I have plans for dinner. We are dining in the sky high above the city. However, that's hours away."
"This city seems so vibrant and alive. Could we just explore a little. I think simply walking the streets would make me happy."
"Let's shower and hit the streets then, Mrs. Lockheed. You're on your honeymoon. I want to fill your every wish and desire.
"I love you, Jimmy."
They had just walked into the bedroom hand in hand. Electric currents were buzzing all around them. Fitz closed the door and pulled Olivia into his arms. His kiss was passionate and demanding. He had been hard since he stepped on the plane. The way Olivia looked in that dress had inflamed him back at the Bellagio. He had tampered his eagerness to have her by remembering that he would have hours to engage his fantasies up in the skies. When the captain said, "You are free to move about the aircraft." he became a man possessed.
Their bodies were meshed together. Olivia still had on her high heels so she fit perfectly on his dick. She knew this as she moved sensually against him. Her movements made him end the kiss and step back.
"Undress for me Livvy. Take off your clothes. I want to see all of you." He stood back to watch. His pants were literally a pup tent! He made no attempt to adjust himself. Olivia turned her back to him.
"Unzip me."
He unzipped her and pushed the dress to her shoulders. She shifted and the dress fell to the floor. Olivia stepped out of the dress and bent over to pick it up. The thong she had on left little to the imagination. She had a beautiful ass. In those Louboutin's she was a sight to behold. Her undies weren't black they were red just like the soles of her shoes. She threw the dress on the settee and turned to face Fitz. Her hair had been styled gathered to one side long and flowing. She released whatever held it in place and framed it around her face. Her red bra fastened in the front, she released it and her perfect boobs popped out. She lowered the thong and stepped out of it. She was completely naked but for her shoes. She had no intention of stepping out of those, at least not yet!
"Now you. I want to see all of you too!"
He didn't hesitate. In fact, he was quick about it. As he stripped his eyes never left her. He mused to himself, his woman was a "fucking" vision, literally and physically. His clothing joined hers on the settee. When he stepped out of his undies, he heard Olivia's swift intake of breath.
"Do I take your breath away, Miss Pope?"
"You do Mr. Grant. As always, you're impressive."
"And you my Sweet Baby make me weak. Come here."
She strode up to him full of fire. He reached out to stroke her breasts before taking one and then the other into his mouth. She reached for him, gently stroking him. The attention to her breasts created pure fire in her core. She moaned his name. He changed the dynamics. He turned her away from him and came up behind her and pulled her close. His body moved sensually behind her grinding on her ass. One hand came to rest at her breasts. He massaged, tweaked, and elongated her nipples. The pleasure and pain combination thrilled her. Then he reached in front of her and slowly inserted his long middle finger. Her body responded to the invasion. He whispered in her ear as the single digit moved within her.
"You're wet, Livvy. Come for me. I've got you."
She leaned back in his arms and exploded. He held her tightly and upright. He still murmured sweet nothings into her ear, telling her how much he loved her. Olivia steadied herself as she came back from the little death. She turned in his arms and kissed him passionately. Pulling back in his arms, she stared into eyes that looked almost black. They were filled with sexual fire.
"Tell me what you want."
"Just you, Sweet Baby. I'll take anything."
She removed their discarded clothing from the settee to the floor.
"Sit down."
Fitz did as he was told. Olivia walked to the bed and retrieved two pillows. She put one behind the head of Fitzgerald Grant, the other she placed on the floor between his legs at his feet. Fitz had been watching her every move. He couldn't help it; he touched himself in anticipation. When she got on her knees he closed his eyes.
"Let me do that."
Her hands were light as a feather as the stroked the length of him. He had taught her everything including testicular play. She had him moaning in obvious delight and she had yet to put her mouth on him. When she did, her ministrations were expert and sensational! He was about to lose his mind before he finally stopped her. That wasn't the happy ending he wanted just yet. Olivia pulled away from him with her siren's smile. She had intended to take him all the way to heaven. He had been seconds from coming apart!
"We're moving to the bed. We both know that you kept those shoes on for a reason, Miss Pope."
"Very astute, Mr. Grant."
Olivia reluctantly stood up while looking down at her prize and licking her lips.
"The day is still young Miss Pope. I promise you all wants and desires will be met. You are going to be very surprised at what we are going to accomplish in two hours or less."
Olivia walked over to the bed. Fitz was at the helm for now. She looked back. He was right behind her with a pillow in his hand. So, turnabout was fair play.
"Sit down on bed Livvy. I'll take care of the rest."
He got on his knees on the pillow. He put her legs on his shoulders and started to feast on her. He told her she tasted like honey. He licked, sucked, and plundered with that gifted tongue of his until she came apart. He gave her two mind-blowing orgasms that way. Olivia was weak as kitten when he pulled her down to the edge of the bed, stood her up, turned her over and bent her across the bed. The shoes; they put her at just the right height for accessibility and comfort. He came up behind her and nudged her legs apart. When the bulbous head made entry, she whispered his name. He moved again and found her G-spot. He knew just what she needed and gave it to her. She cried out his name and came again. He surged completely inside to feel her walls collapse around him. Sweet Jesus! This was where he was supposed to be.
Fitz facilitated an absolutely mind-boggling simultaneous orgasm from both of them. They had collapsed on the bed totally spent. They both knew that they weren't done. After about a thirty-minute break they continued their round of passion. Their Mile High adventures included a stint in the bathroom. They ended the round in the middle of the bed looking each other in the eyes. After a quick shower they fell asleep in each other's arms. They awakened only after the captain announced they were descending at Logan.
Tessa and James had a wonderful afternoon of sightseeing in Vegas. They walked the strip until they tired. James called Freddy and he sent a car for them. They returned to their suite to get ready for their dinner date at the "Top of The World Restaurant" located in the Stratosphere Casino. Freddy recommended it for the ambience and the breathtaking 360-degree view of the city. The view was spectacular and a one-of-a-kind experience. The Stratosphere couldn't hold a candle to Freddy's casino but with that view most people didn't care.
James wanted Tessa to have warm memories of the place where they were married. He wanted her experience to be such that she would want to return. He was often here for conferences and to see Freddy. He didn't intend to be separated from his wife again so where one went the other would follow. He did anticipate some trouble from Thomas Pope but he would handle it swiftly and succinctly. Tessa was his and God help any fool that sought to come between them!
"I'm excited about the restaurant Jimmy. How far up in the sky will we be?"
"I think that I read it's 800 feet above Las Vegas. During an approximately ninety-minute dining experience you are guaranteed to survey the entire city. Freddy say's the menu is overpriced but the place is filled with nuance. There are amusement park style rides in play along the outside of the restaurant also."
"What do you mean, amusement park style rides? Who would get on a ride 800 feet in the sky?"
"Someone very, very foolish."
"Thank goodness we are past that type of thing. I remember our small amusement park. We had lots of fun the times we went there. James, did you ever get on those rides in your travels here?"
"I did. I let Freddy talk me into it. It was very scary. I did it on a dare. I was in my late thirties and somewhat reckless then. I only mentioned it because this is your Vegas experience. I remember that you were quite a daredevil back in the day. We have four more nights here. We can do whatever you want to do. I would like for us to take a day and decide where we go from here. I want to extend our honeymoon to several month of travels, if you haven't any objections. I'd like to show you the world Tessa. Or I should say a small portion of it. Remember, I told you that if you have a bucket list, to pull it out? I'm serious. We're on a real honeymoon. Don't worry about clothes. We can buy as we go!"
"You're serious, aren't you? We're not going back home right away, are we?"
"Nothing is cast in stone but we deserve as many days of love and happiness as we want. Not that we won't be happy in the Caymans, we will be. There will be a little damper with Tommy. I know this because I know Tommy. However, I say a week max before he fully understands the situation. I'll give him that because we once were friends. He's not going to be a factor in our lives. That's a promise."
"To be honest I'm only a little worried about the man. Olivia has told me that both of us are under the protection of Grant Global, James. We are Olivia's parents. Fitzgerald Grant loves our daughter. He won't let anything happen to us."
"I'm sure that he won't but I really don't need a conglomerate to protect my wife. I admire the man's tenacity and the way he loves Olivia. Her happiness is his main concern. He doesn't want her worried about us. I appreciate all of his efforts."
"But?"
"You are mine to protect. I am your husband."
"That you are. You're a very protective and loving husband. Our wedding was picture perfect. Freddy was an excellent host. We must repay him in some way. As for the bedding it was perfect too Jimmy. You haven't forgotten a thing about the way we were. You made me so happy. What about you? Did I please you? I want you to be happy too."
"Tessa, to be blunt, you are the best lover I've ever had. Nothing has changed other than everything is better and more intense knowing that we are free to love each whenever we want. I've dreamed of nothing but being with you again for years. You were wonderful. I only cried uncle because I want to be your husband longer than a day. You look beautiful by the way. Good enough to eat."
"No way. I know that look. I'm hungry too but for food. We're going to that lovely restaurant in the sky before we continue those type of activities. You have to feed me first."
"I know. Shall we get ready?"
Olivia had been dropped off at the hospital and Fitz had returned to the penthouse. He was retiring for the night. Love at thirty-thousand feet was very demanding. He had a morning Zoom call with Drey and the rest of the staff at ten. These two weeks off had rejuvenated him as well as being just what he and Olivia needed. Things had worked out fine for her parents. Now all of them could get on with their lives.
This Zoom meeting would bring him up to speed. After an update of his cases, he could anticipate where he would be when he returned to work next week. Also, they had accepted three new clients. Two A-List actors, one from film, one renown in the annals of Broadway, and the other a well know NBA star. His personal business was flourishing and the family business was certified fortune 500. Life was good. He and Olivia were good.
Spending another week with her was going to be wonderful. After he got off of the phone tomorrow, he was devoting the rest of the week to he and Olivia. When she came home from the hospital, he intended to be the best of "house husbands." He wasn't really a husband yet but he was hopeful. They would pinpoint a wedding date at Christmas and be married by this time next year. He was also sure that they would have children at some point. When to start their family would be totally up to Olivia. She had to follow her dreams and he would support her!
Olivia had arrived at Mass General on cloud nine. She felt well rested even though her four hours of sleep had actually only been three. She and Fitz had an afternoon to remember as they flew back to Boston. It had been a mini-marathon and she had loved every minute of it. She thought of her own fond memories and those of her parents being united in marriage. They were obviously very much in love. They had tried to disguise it but they had been very anxious to leave their own wedding reception. The sexual tension between her mother and Uncle Jim was palpable. She was blushing thinking about it.
She fully understood sexual desire now. It was somewhat hard to believe that her mother and Uncle Jim most likely did some of the same sexual acts that she now experienced with Fitz. She knew it was true though because her mother had confided some personal facts about their love life. Her parents were sexual beings too!
She was back on the clock and things were slow tonight. It had been that way all night according to Dr. Ellington. The chief resident was coming down to the ED to expand on paralytic sedation in about an hour. Emergency Medicine rotations were exceptional as far as Olivia was concerned. You were getting a taste of all types of medicines. Olivia loved it. With only three more weeks left before moving on to Internal Medicine, Olivia knew she was going to miss the hustle and bustle of it. None of medicine was dull but she was doubtful any was as fast-paced and versatile as Emergency Medicine.
In three weeks, she would report to a doctor's office to assist with medical care. She would follow that same doctor on medical rounds. It didn't sound exciting at all. Nonetheless she was excited to be moving along. The most positive thing about this was that the upcoming clinical rotations mostly involved regular office hours and hospital rounds at the doctor's discretion. That meant that for eight weeks she would come home at night to Fitz when he was in Boston. She was looking forward to it.
Tessa and James were sitting down in their suite with a travel consultant. Tessa had indeed pulled out her bucket list. Inspired by the imitation Eiffel Tower on the Vegas Strip, their very first stop would be the city of lights, Paris, France. They were going to Egypt to see the Pyramids. The planned to see Big Ben in London. They were going to Germany and the Swiss Alps. Tessa had quite a bucket list and her husband planned to indulge her. They would eventually come back to the states to see more of the US and spend time with their Olivia and Tommy.
Tessa had candidly told Olivia that James said it could be as long as a year before they returned to the Caymans. Their marriage wasn't going to be a secret, Thomas would find out. Eventually James intended to speak directly to the man himself. Their extended honeymoon, would give Thomas a chance to accept their fate and move on with his life. At least that was what James was hoping for. It was a lot to expect an unreasonable man to be reasonable. Nevertheless, James Lockheed didn't consider his old friend a fool. He would accept that Tessa was now his or he would suffer undue consequences.
SIX MONTHS LATER
Olivia's life had moved on without skipping a beat. She was into her final weeks in General Surgery. It had been amazing. Mostly all first-year residents did was observe but occasionally they did get to participate in something other than patient care. There were labs, research, and watching actual procedures in the theater. Students that had a keen interest in a particular field applied to be in the actual operating arena as observers. GS had been her second favorite thus far. Pediatrics and Family Medicine had been interesting, all medicine was. So far nothing had compared to her stint in Emergency Medicine. If she had not promised Nana that she would spend her medical career saving the lives of diabetic patients, it would probably be her field of choice. With only a few more months of first year she was well placed to gain a fellowship in the discipline of her choice.
The amazing thing was that she was at a stage where she actually had a schedule for the most part. Unless you were failing to meet up to your expectations as a physician, clinical rotations were nothing more than a tool where you learned to be a real doctor. The first-year residents that were hoping to be named chief resident were constantly trying to out shine the other. Doctors are impressed with other doctors that exhibit brilliance. Olivia didn't have her eye on the position because her life with Fitz was her main priority. Medicine would be her vocation but not her entire life. Nonetheless Olivia's brilliance had shone through on several occasions. Doctor's and her peers had noticed.
How lucky was she to have Christmas weekend off? Dr. Owens closed his office on Wednesday. He had no surgeries scheduled and they wouldn't reopen until the following Tuesday. Fitz and Olivia were headed back to Santa Barbara for the Christmas holidays. Luckily things had worked out. She had not been so lucky as to have time off during the Thanksgiving holiday. They had missed Gabriella's fabulous Thanksgiving fete in the Caymans. She implored Fitz to go without her. He had never missed one! He wouldn't do it. He wouldn't go without her.
The anniversary of when they first met had come and gone. Fitz had sent her flowers and chocolate covered strawberries. She had grown to love the sweet treat. When he had arrived on Thanksgiving Day, they had a dual celebration. Olivia had cooked a small Thanksgiving dinner for the two of them. They also celebrated the anniversary of when they first met. They spent the night dancing to a playlist of their favorite songs just as they had in the Caymans. It was a lovely celebration.
However, what could compare to returning to Santa Barbara, the place where they became officially engaged? They were going to announce their wedding plans beyond the family this weekend. They had been in contact with Gabriella and the family and would choose a final date. First year residency would end and she would have a two-week break. They would choose one of those weekends to marry.
They were marrying in the church that Olivia had been raised in. The reception was to be held on the property at the Cove. Uncle Jim was insisting upon paying for the entire wedding event. Olivia simply wanted to be a beautiful bride and marry the man that she loved. She was content to show up and know that Fitz would be there waiting for her. Gabriella was basically in charge and had already hired a wedding planner. Tessa had her role but she was currently still on her "see the world" honeymoon. Gabriella was in charge but she was in constant contact with Olivia soliciting her input.
"We are approaching our final destination please return to your seats." They were already in their seat so to speak. Olivia was buck naked sitting atop of Fitz with her legs dangling along the sides. She had just ridden him like a cowgirl. They were both savoring an explosive release from a rewarding encounter in the skies. The captain's words shook them out of their euphoric state.
"Fitz, I thought we had more time."
"Don't worry Babe. Once we land there's still the inspection of paperwork. Plus no one will open that door until I give the okay. We have time for a quick shower and to get presentable."
"Are you sure?"
"I'm sure."
Fitz was right. They had time. The had showered, dressed, and were about to exit the jet. A car was waiting for them.
"Good-Morning, Mr. Grant and Ms. Pope. I trust that you had an excellent flight."
"We did, thank-you Jacques. Has the house started to stir yet?"
"Actually, it has. Your parents appear to be up even though they had a late night in LA last evening. I know they usually sleep in after such events. I can say with certainty I heard them moving about this morning."
"We're going directly to my wing anyway."
"Just the one bag?"
"That's it."
They entered his suite of rooms, closed and locked the door.
"I'm so happy to be back here. I have such pleasant memories of Santa Barbara and California period. I can't wait to see your parents and Papa Joe."
"If I know my Maman and I do, we won't have to wait long. She was expecting us. She's up and stirring. My guess is that things are happening. Are you hungry."
"I am. I started to ask what was open this early in the morning?"
"I'd say give my mother some time. She always fixes breakfast when I come in from coast to coast. She should be calling us soon."
"Really, your mom is up cooking us breakfast?" Right then, the phone rang.
"Hi Maman, Good morning."
"Good morning my love. Did you and Olivia have an excellent flight? Breakfast should be ready in the next thirty minutes. I'm so glad that you two are back with us at Christmas. Your father and I have been taking in quite a few of the local festivities. Papa Joe even joined us last night. At any rate, is thirty minutes good for you two."
"It is. Olivia was just saying she was hungry. See you in a few. Bye. See, I told you so."
"Should we change for breakfast?"
"No, what we have on is fine. We're home Olivia, in the bosom of our family. Life is casual and carefree unless Gabriella Garnier advises you otherwise. Come here, Sweet Baby. You were wonderful last night and this morning. You make the best love to me."
She walked into his arms and paired her body with his. Her head lay on his chest just for a moment before looking into his eyes. A big loving smile spread across her face.
"And you my love made my toes curl an extraordinary number of times. I love you. It's so wonderful to be back in California. The fact that we're announcing a wedding date is so exciting. And we were able to get our Christmas shopping done in Boston. I like the idea of spending the entire weekend at the compound."
"I finally was able to set something up with my buddies for Friday evening. Just an evening of fun for the guys and their wives. We're going to watch a first run movie in the theater here at the house. We're serving the obvious, a bunch of junk food and drinks. It will be good to see everyone again."
"It will be. Do you think your mother will want to talk wedding plans this morning. As you know I have my dates that are available for our wedding. We must make sure that they are agreeable with your mother. She's in charge of everything really."
"How does Tessa feel not being in charge of her daughter's wedding? My mother will easily concede to her any actions she wishes to do as mother of the bride."
"My mother is a newlywed herself. She's experiencing something that has eluded her for the entirety of her life, personal joy and happiness. She and Uncle Jim are so happy on this journey of theirs. I hope they will even get back for our wedding. I'm kidding. Of course, my parents will there. They're in the Swiss Alps you know. Mother is learning how to ski. I'd like to learn myself one day."
"One day you shall. Of course, I knew you were kidding. I'm impressed with your parents taking this unprecedented time for themselves. It speaks volumes. I know we aren't going to take a traditional honeymoon but eventually we will have one. I promise to take you skiing in the Swiss Alps and any other place you choose. As you can see the months have flown by. I fully expect second year residency will fly by as well."
"You have been the best of boyfriends and fiancés. I expect even greater things from you as a husband. The months we have ahead of us can't move quickly enough. I'm eager to be a wife."
Olivia didn't add that she was eager to be a mother as well. Fitz wanted children and she prayed that her visions were accurate. She had seen children in their future. That future made her smile.
"So, are we wrapping our presents ourselves this year? If so, we need to include it in our itinerary. These five days will go by quickly but if we pace ourselves, we can accomplish all of our plans."
"I'm bowing out to Grant tradition. We are turning our bounty over to the professional wrappers. I've taken the liberty of making a list with names and what belongs to whom. I love wrapping presents but I want us to spend more time with family and friends. As you know from gift wrapping last year, it's a tedious process. We were extremely lucky that I was even able to join you Fitz. You missed out on a family tradition last month because of my schedule. Don't get me wrong it warmed my heart that you spent Thanksgiving with me but you've never missed a Thanksgiving with your family in your entire life. I felt some type of way about that."
"Olivia Carolyn Pope, my darling and wonderful fiancée, you are now my family. I know we haven't said our vows yet but please understand that I love my parents and Papa Joe to death, but you are the one my heart beats for Olivia. You're my family. I love you. Every day that I spend with you is a blessing. Never feel anything but joy about that. I will always choose you!"
"Fitzgerald Thomas Grant, from the moment I turned around and looked into your eyes, I knew you were the one. I knew we would share everything. I knew that our lives belonged to each other. I saw us together, entangled doing things that I knew nothing about. I saw myself holding a child with eyes like yours. Thirteen months ago, I couldn't believe what I felt in my heart for a complete stranger, but now I know. I will always choose you too."
"Girl, you are the sweetest and most loving woman I've ever met. What would I have done if we had never met?"
"I know you Fitz. You would have searched and left no stone unturned until you found me. We were destined to be together. Let's get over to the main house. I know Gabriella has outdone herself."
"I'm sure she has."
The two lovers entered the huge Grant kitchen. Gabriella herself stood over the stove.
"Welcome home, you two. How was your flight?"
"It was wonderful. It's good to be home."
"Fitz is right, it was wonderful. I'm so happy to be back here with all you again. I trust everyone had a delightful summer. Everyone looks great. Especially you Papa Joe."
"Thanks, Olivia. The family and work keep me busy. I understand we are celebrating more than just the holidays again this year. Another announcement. You two intend to marry in early summer?"
"We do. I have an unexpected blessing in late June, two available weekends. I'm sure you know that Fitz and I have moved in together. That was only a preliminary step. I love your grandson very much. We want to be married."
"I'm thrilled for you two. Welcome to the family. I can't wait for the wedding!"
"Me neither, Papa Joe. Something smells delectable Maman."
"Something is delectable. Your mother is in her element. She been up for hours chopping and dicing.
"Yes, I have been. And you were right there with me Jerry Grant. It's a big deal! Our son and his beautiful bride-to-be are home. We have a wedding to plan! Come on, let's eat."
Breakfast was delicious. Olivia that usually ate like a bird had seconds of several of the delicious offerings. She was now sipping on the most exquisite mimosa she had ever tasted.
"Oh my goodness Gabriella, what is in this thing? I'm tingly after every sip. I've never tasted a mimosa this good!"
"It's the oranges. They're from our own orchards. They're the best in the world. The juice is as sweet as honey. The champagne is from my own family's vineyards in France. It does leave one tingly, doesn't it?"
"It does. The entire meal was superb. My compliments to all involved. I'm so excited to spend another Christmas here in Santa Barbara. It's fast becoming one of my favorite places."
"The weekend will be fast-paced. You and Fitz feel free to pick your choices of events. I understand you're entertaining yourselves on Friday evening."
"Just the Brat Pack and their wives. What's new and interesting in the theater archives?"
"Check with Leonardo. He updates what we have received every Monday."
"Yes, he does. You know all of you have a standing invite to join us if you like."
"Come on son? Theater night with the Brat Pack? That's a no thank-you! Hold on to your hat Olivia."
"Come on Dad. We weren't that bad even back in the day. Plus, we were rabblerousers then. We are all changed and grown up now. It's just going to be another night at the movies."
"I believe you Fitz. You guys have fun. We're actually going down to LA again Friday night. Our friends Babs and Jimmy are having a little to do. We look forward to seeing you at our annual Christmas eve shindig and Christmas morning. Now about those days in June. Let's pick a fine day to have a wedding!"
With Tessa and James on Zoom they decided on a date. Fitz and Olivia were to be married on Saturday June 20th of next year at two o'clock in the afternoon at The Little Church of Saint Maria in The Grand Caymans. A reception would follow at the resort hideaway, The Cove owned by Olivia's "godfather" James Lockheed. The preliminaries were settled. There was a definite air of excitement within the entire family. Gabriella and Olivia carried their excitement into the next hour. The menfolk moved to the office suite to talk of other things.
Olivia was happier than ever. Everything was falling into place. Her soon-to-be mother-in-law was excited as well. Olivia could tell Gabriella was in her element. Her wedding day was in good hands. Fitz was right. She could concentrate fully on medicine and let his mother do her thing. Like Fitz, she was simply going to show up. Gabriella assured Olivia that she and her mother would be apprised of every detail.
Gabriella was on cloud nine about the upcoming nuptials. Event planning was second nature to her. She had six months to assure that her son's wedding was perfect. And it would be perfect! She wanted nothing at all eliciting memories of that fiasco Margo Lilly has orchestrated years ago. Fitz and Olivia would have a beautiful wedding and start for their marriage. Gabriella loved the Caribbean in June!
Speaking of the Caribbean, Thomas Pope was sitting in his office. At this very moment he was opening a dossier from Featherman and Featherman a prestigious private investigative firm here in the islands. His investigations and inquiries on his own had produced nothing. His "wife" never returned from Boston. She wasn't at the Cambridge townhouse nor was she at the penthouse that his daughter was shacked up in with Fitzgerald Grant. Where the hell was she?
Jimmy hadn't returned his phone calls. Their friendship was apparently over. He had gotten recent correspondence from Jimmy advising him that room 119 was no longer available and his gambling markers at his favorite casino were being called in. After all these years, the man was suddenly cutting him off. The room had been on the house but the nerve of Jimmy to insist that he cut him a check for over two-hundred-thousand dollars. Not that he didn't have the money, he never thought he would have to pay it back. He liked the Blackjack table and he often engaged at the tables while waiting on his paramours. Thus far he had ignored the demand for payment just as Jimmy was ignoring him!
He had spent weeks surveilling Tessa new house waiting for her to return. His connection had gotten him a code that got him into the gated residence but so far, the woman hadn't returned. He had finally broken down and hired a real PI firm. This fucking packet in his hand had cost him almost ten-thousand dollars! He was mad as hell about it. What did Tessa think she was doing? Other than hiding from him. He was going to see that she paid the PI bill as penance for her behavior.
What was this world coming to? His wife was hiding from him and an old friend was now shaking him down for money. He shook his head and continued opening the packet from Featherman and Featherman. They had a fancy letterhead. It wasn't surprising. They charged hundreds of dollars per hour. The job supposedly had taken them out of the country. Sure, it had, to the USA, not the goddamn moon! He was eager to see what these people were charging him for. He began reading the dossier on his wife.
Okay, he knew her date of birth, etc. etc. Where the hell was Tessa? She had been staying on a private floor at the Bostonian. It was unavailable to the public. He already knew that too! He had tried to gain entry himself when he was there. Grant had the place in lockdown during Olivia's graduation. No one could get in or off of those floors without interaction with a security team. His wife had attended a graduation weekend for her daughter. She stayed on at the hotel for several days after the event. She visited her daughter at the condominium in Cambridge for two days straight. On her last day before leaving Boston, she had arrived to visit her daughter at the penthouse on Beacon Street. She was accompanied by James Lockheed. WHAT?
After leaving the penthouse, the following day she and James Lockheed left for Las Vegas, Nevada. They arrived in Las Vegas and they were met at Harry Reid International Airport by a Mr. Frederick Enslowe. Freddy? They checked into the Bellagio Casino and Resort on Monday June, 13th. On Tuesday June, 14th Tessa Langley and James Lockheed were united in holy matrimony at 12:00 pm PST in a Bellagio chapel. WHAT?
The newlyweds left Las Vegas, Nevada and the continental United States Friday on June 17th and landed in Paris France. They spent one week there before moving on to London England. He was looking at a long list of European countries and cities that James Lockheed and his wife had visited. They were currently in Basel, Switzerland. His head was about to explode! What was happening? Jimmy had married Tessa? WHAT? Was he in the fucking Twilight Zone?
The Lockheed's had just returned from the slopes, the beginners' slopes. James was a seasoned skier; his wife was a beginner. However, she was quick learner. It had been another fun morning. Every day since their marriage six months ago had been an adventure. Tessa was having the time of her life. She and James had been given a second chance. They were happy and ecstatic about it. They were on their honeymoon and they hadn't missed a beat. Her husband had promised to show her the world and he was doing so!
Everything had been perfect so far. No glitches. No mishaps. They stayed in contact with Olivia, Tommy, and their families. James made the necessary contacts with his Number Two of which he had complete confidence. His businesses were fine. He was still making an outrageous amount of money. Not Fitzgerald Grant type of money but he could certainly afford to take his wife on a honeymoon that currently involved two continents.
They were back in their suite. It wasn't the over-the-top opulence of Paris and London but it was lovely and homey. Basel was cold. Tessa was glad to be back in the cozy and warm suite. Her eyes were on the plush Kashan rug and pillows in front of the fireplace. Memories of she and James on that rug last night flooded her senses.
"That was so much fun Jimmy. I actually like skiing a lot. What's on the agenda for tomorrow?"
"More of the same I'm afraid. Lessons on the slopes and then back here to warm up before the fire."
"That sounds wonderful. I'd never made love on a floor in front of a roaring fire before. I'd love to do it again, right now in fact."
"So would I my delectable little wife but I have some news. I don't want to spoil the mood but you have to know this."
"The children…"
"Are fine Tessa. It's Thomas. He knows or he will know shortly that you and I are married. As you know Fitzgerald has the man under surveillance. He's been snooping around for months now in the islands and apparently could find out nothing. He even returned to Boston obviously looking for you. He had the nerve to call Tommy after all these years claiming he needed to talk to you on a business matter. Tommy hung up on him! What he did was to hire a PI firm, one of the best in the Caribbean to find you, Tessa. Of course, Grant knew about it and could have squashed it. He conferred with me. He said it was best to let the enquiry run its course. Thomas had to become aware of our marriage at some point. I agreed.
If we were in the Caribbean he would already know. We weren't hiding Tessa. We were holding on to our super happy state as long as possible. By now I'm sure Thomas Pope knows we are married. Hopefully by the time we return to the Caymans in June for our daughter's wedding, he will have accepted the evitable. You are lost to him."
Tessa listened to her husband talk about Thomas Pope and for a brief moment she remembered her sad, tortured life with the man. Her body chilled. She didn't want Thomas Pope intruding on her happiness. If she never laid eyes on the man again, she would be happy about it. She was on her honeymoon. She wasn't going to let him spoil it!
She started to undress before the roaring fire. She didn't stop until she had on not a stitch of clothing. She looked like an African Queen standing there peering into the flames. Her husband came up behind her and pulled her into his embrace. She closed her eyes. His touch calmed her. James was here.
"You're safe Tessa. He will never touch you again."
"I know. Undress my love and lie down with me."