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The Very long road to recovery

I'm back…. For good or bad….

Thanks to all for for words of encouragement...I was still writing you gave me the incentive to post what I was writing.

I started this some time ago . I like it and I want to share it with you since my imagination is not what it was. So many great stories have been written ...writing new interesting stories that appeal to a majority of readers is not as easy as it was in 2012 or even 2015

Its a short story in chapters (five) but it has a bigger word count. The first chapter is 20k+ words. No need to wait for an update or another chapter ... I tried to include the update and the update to the updates in each chapter. ….….I hope it's a story you will enjoy reading as much as I enjoyed writing it.

I am working on my other open unfinished stories….. unfortunately this one kept invading my other stories as I tried to finish the others. They will be posted as I finish them and only posted as complete stories….no updates …

Prince and Princess. Harry ,Meghan and the British Royal Family have their timeline I am working on mine... A Math to Remember I hope to post during this USO but lets see what happens. After the Visit...CIAAA...is still in the to do file. Like I said this story just took over.

When I decided to retool this story I used the characters as my way of coping with the end of Shonda's Scandal which left me on the floor a ball of suffering humanity …three empty bottles of the good stuff …. and an emptiness for fictional characters I did not know was possible.

As usual spell check will play spoiler ..,I have read …reread and edited but somehow it will find a way to insert words and tenses that are not mine.

Thanks for your interest.

My disclaimer...I am a Scandal lover and I miss my show . The closer September comes the more I realize TV Scandal its gone FOREVER.

Chapter 1

Looking at herself in the mirror Olivia Grant turned to her friend Abby

…"Abby I can't show up in court looking like this…everyone will know."

"Olivia you are eight months pregnant there isn't anything you can do to hide your very pregnant body. Tables and winter coats helped during the meetings with the attorneys but now you must show up in court…. stand in front of the judge and face your husband ….it will be obvious to anyone and everyone. Fitz will know."

Abby walked up behind Olivia who was looking at herself in the mirror

"I don't know what's so wrong with letting your husband know you are pregnant with his child. Every other woman I know would be more than happy to display your large baby filled belly to the court, that would void whatever Fitz is doing and leave you and the child independent from him,….. forever."

"I'm not looking to void it…he wants to take everything …let him have it. If he knew about the baby, he would take him also…. especially since it's a boy."

Abby sighed loudly

" Tell me again...Why is Fitz asking for everything …...why is he saying you signed away all your rights to all your books and all income from those books? Saying the money he gave you to get started with your separate group was a loan and you must pay it back if you leave Grant's Phis publishing Company within five years. "

"Why….easy because he is an ass…...I don't know what happened to him. I asked for a divorce and he went nuclear…...it doesn't make any sense. I receive photos of his face buried between another woman's legs and somehow, I'm the bad guy. It doesn't matter I just want out…...if losing everything is the price…I'll pay it. I may be broke but I will have custody of my child. My child….A child who will not have to be shifted between two parents for the next eighteen years. A child who can sleep in the same bed every night and not think about its dad's turn next week or only seeing his mom on holidays because his dad's money forced his mother out if his life."

"Olivia how are you going to make it?…. new baby….no job…...no savings…no place to live. Fitz refused to let you keep the apartment he bought for you after you got married. He said it was yours…..a place of your own where you could write without outside interruptions then he took it back.. .. "

"Abby I don't know...I just want this over with then I can figure the rest out."

"Where are you going to stay, you can't stay in a hotel forever? Your credit cards are about maxed out or have been cancelled…you have used most of your savings to support yourself the past six months…. you are broke, unemployed and homeless."

'"Broke, unemployed and homeless but I will have the most important thing…my child and my freedom."

"You are one stubborn woman …you are broke and so am I but if I have a place to stay …you have a place to stay."

"Abby, I appreciate that but it's going to be ok…."

"Are all your clothes still in the penthouse?"

"Yes, my growing stomach eliminates everything that I own being wearable so not much is lost."

"But Olivia you will fit back into them soon…don't you want them?"

"Fitz blocked my staying in the apartment and going to the penthouse to remove anything. I never wanted the stress of an argument especially after I developed my baby bump. Never wanted to chance him finding out".

"' It's a miracle that you got away so far without him realizing you are pregnant."

"Yes I could not have planned it better...although most things were accidental. ... it worked well…..a lot of luck and some quick improvising lt and really worked at not letting him find out.. Several times I thought Harrison was going to tell but I promised , friend or not, if Fitz found out from him I would report him to the bar association. He understood so he stayed quiet even when Fitz was making all his demands, I could see him gritting his teeth to keep my secret. Of course I would never report him to the bar but he was unsure what an angry pregnant woman would do…friend or not."

Abby chuckled thinking about Harrison staying quiet when he knew Olivia's secret. "Harrison staying quiet that must have been quite a sight to witness. Almost as great as witnessing you being able to hide your ever growing baby bump."

"When we met at the attorneys officer I insisted we meet in a conference room … we sat at a conference table. I always carried a big purse so carrying a big purse and sitting it in my lap was nothing odd. I was lucky …winter , coats and big purses did most it for six month. Because of all of the above and it was winter and it wasn't obvious to anyone who wasn't really looking. Fitz was too busy trying to destroy me he never ever really looked at me. Abby somehow I never imagined after three years of a great marriage it would all end like this. I really thought we had something real….. I really thought he loved me…. Dammmmm ….. I thought I loved him."

"You did love him Olivia…. he just destroyed that love by the things he did."

"That saying is true … love is not enough. What he did, his infidelity hurt….but what hurt most , his actions once I left and filed for divorce. How could I have been so wrong about him. He no longer wanted me why not just let me go with the money I earned during the marriage. I never asked for anything more from him. I never even considered a pre-nup even when I was advised I should protect myself. I foolishly believe in us."

"You know you could have released the photos and destroyed him."

"Yes, but you know that's not my style . I could have destroyed him personally but his bank account would have survived. I would also have destroyed part of the the family business, his parents would have been affected. …... The employees, stock holders …... This isn't all about me, there would have been so many other casualties including this child I am carrying…protecting my son from his father as long as I can is the most important concern for me."

Olivia turned to pick up another top from the bed and tripped partially catching herself as she landed hard on the bed.

"Falling would have destroyed all your careful plans." …. Abby said as she helped Olivia sit up.

Olivia thought for a moment…." nope …. that just gave me an idea."

Three days later Olivia showed up in court in a wheel chair her right leg in a cast her left arm in a sling …..her purse sitting in her lap. She left her right hand clear in case she needed to sign anything.

The judge saw her and asked if she needed another court date…." Nope, your honor I am fine."

"Mrs. Grant what happened?" He asked …."

"Just a fall your honor…high heels met icy stairs…...…. nothing serious just a couple of sprains. The doctor wanted to be careful because I sprained the same ankle a short time ago . The sling on my arm is just to keep the wrist straight, I jammed it as I was trying to break my fall …. I will be ok soon. Nothing that will stop today's proceeding."

"Are you sure...this is the final hearing we can give you another date. Mr. Grant would you agree to another date?"

Fitz looked over at Olivia and started towards her but Abby and Harrison blocked his way.

He glared at them both "I just want to see if she is ok…. we can do this later…. we can agree to get another court date."

Abby shot back…." nope Fitzgerald your marriage to Olivia ends today. She is fine there is no reason for you to look like you care….. you have done enough already."

"Fitzgerald … you always call me Fitz….she has turned you against me too."

Abby looked directly into his eyes…"nope Fitzgerald you turned me against you. Come on let's get this divorce done."

"Nope your honor...thank you...let get this done today." Olivia said with a big smile on her face and a wave of her hand.

In short order all terms demanded by Fitz were agreed upon…. he got everything …the only thing Olivia asked for was her the restoration of her maiden name to Pope. She walked , or was wheeled, out with nothing to show for three years of marriage except her maiden name but she was happy.

As they cleared the courtroom a messenger approached and handed Olivia a manila envelope. She wondered….what now she had nothing else to lose, nothing else to have taken away. Olivia waited to open the envelope until she got back outside where Harrison , Abby and Stephen helped her into the car. Waiting until both Fitz and his attorney left before she moved from the chair to the car. They intended to go back to Abby's apartment and talk things out… she to decide her next step now the first one was over.. Olivia opened the envelope. It contained a letter from Gerry Grant , a packet of bills and a keys to a suite at Four Seasons Hotel. .

Olivia read the letter

"Olivia I'm sorry my son is such an ass. This is not a payoff. I want to make sure you have a place to stay and money to take care of yourself until you make a decision about your life. Enclosed is some immediate cash…. I have also opened several credit card accounts and a checking account for you into which I will make monthly deposits the next two year…. Longer if necessary. ….I just want to make sure you are able to get back on your feet...This just replaces some of your money that my son used the fine print in your contract to take. . Please stay in touch. GG.

Olivia called to Stephen …. "change the plans we are going to Four Seasons to celebrate as she showed the contents of the envelope to Stephen and Abby….…they have a fabulous room service menu and this kid is demanding food."

The Four checked into Olivia's suite and ordered food then settled down to talk strategy. Harrison came along to protect Olivia from herself.

"Stephen, Abby this change things . I can make plans…..prepare for the baby….rent an apartment. I will relocate but now I have time to plan without stress. I don't want the Grant money but right now it will solve most of my immediate problems. As soon as I get back on my feet I will repay him."

"Olivia why are you worried about paying money back that you already earned? Abby asked …"he's just giving you your money. I wouldn't consider paying one cent back."

"Abby just let me enjoy my first day without the stress of providing for my child."

Fitz has had a standing Wednesday dinner date with his parents since he returned from college and started working for the company. It was always a non-business dinner where the only thing discussed was family. He, and his parents, decided not to cancel today's dinner….. thinking with his divorce being finalized today they should stick with schedule…keep things as normal as possible. . Because of his divorce there wasn't a lot of pleasant family talk at the table. The dinner went with long periods of silences where the only sound was silverware against the china plates.

Just then his phone rang the caller ID said Mellie ….phone calls at dinner were forbidden. Alma Grant made it clear years ago to her husband , and son, no phone calls during dinner.. Alma Grant gave her son a look of displeasure he mouthed "I'm sorry".

Fitz had turned his phone on to call Tom earlier when he was leaving court . With seeing Olivia in a wheel chair, Abby not allowing him near her and his marriage officially ending … he was not thinking... he mouthed I'm sorry to his mother. He dated years Mellie years ago and had made plans to spend some time away with her next week. He wasn't really involved with Mellie but he thought getting away with her would help put the last year behind him.

" Fitz, it's Mellie I was wondering if we can have lunch tomorrow and discuss our trip next weekend…. I need some more information…what to pack …what time we are leaving. "

"Mellie I can't talk now."

"How about I pick something up ….. We can eat in your office…. say yes. We can have our special dessert like we used to."

"Mellie I am with my parents I can't talk now I'll call you back." Fitz said as he got off the phone as quickly as possible….feeling the stare from his mother …..

Alma looked at her son and shook her head…" maybe it's time to go ahead with your life. Mellie may be the woman for you."

"Mom, Dad, I like Mellie, but I love Olivia. If I wanted Mellie I never would have married Olivia. I wanted Olivia four years ago….. I loved Olivia when I married her three years ago and I still do…nothing has changed."

"Fitz if that's correct why are there photos of you in bed with another woman." His mother asked with a perplexed look on her face.

Fitz had never totally discussed the night his marriage fell apart mainly because he did not know how to explain the unexplainable.

"That's something I don't understand. You both know I can hold my alcohol, … I don't have any memory of that night. I remember going to the party…. seeing everyone but that's all. I don't understand how I would have ever chose to go to a hotel with another woman. I have tried to figure out what happened that night, but I have been so busy trying to make Olivia talk to me I never really thought about what happened. All the guys said I was all over the girl after she brought me my drink… they thought she was with me …that I had returned to my playboy ways. I was slurring my words so when I decided to leave they put me in a cab and the girl got in with me saying she would make sure I got home. I'm not sure the girl in the bar and the girl in the photos are the same girl. "

"Why were you in a cab….where was Tom…..?" his mother asked…"I never asked where he was that night."

His sister was in an accident earlier … he went to see about her. Tom insisted that I get one of the other drivers to fill in but I told him it was a quick in and out with friends…so I told him I would take a cab. I was going to a bar I knew….it was a celebration for a friend I was among friends…what could possibly go wrong. "

"When we saw the photos we thought maybe someone was trying to blackmail you... shake you down ….but never a demand for money….no contact with the sender her after that night." Gerry Grant said

"Maybe someone got what they wanted Olivia out of your life and it worked ."his mother added.

"How would they have known it would work out like it did."

"It was a chance….,,, Either they would cause severe damage to your marriage or cause a total breakup…whatever happened…it worked . You just have to start over."

"Mom that's just it I don't want to start over…I still love Olivia I still want her."

"Fitz that's in the past. I don't know if Olivia would ever forgive you…. first the photos then you using every word of fine print in her contract… the photos may have destroyed every bit of her love for you ….what you did towards her financially made things worse."

"I really messed up."

"sorry to say son….. you did."

" I was just trying to make Olivia talk to me. I figured if I made enough demands she would give me a fight, argue with me but she just gave in to everything. She never said one word to me during our meetings….. absolutely everything was handled by her attorney."

His mother shook her head…"Maybe there was no fight in her after she saw the pictures…..I am sure she was hurt and very angry."

Fitz laughed humorlessly …"The Olivia I remember would never have sat quietly while I used every line in her contract to take everything from her. That Olivia would never have allowed that to happen."

"Then why did you choose to use every means to take everything from her?" Gerry Grant asked.

"I was trying to get her to talk to me….I expected her to show up at my office without an appointment , ready to tear my eye sockets out, to protect what was clearly hers."

"Maybe she just did not feel like fighting you over money….she passed on the pre-nup remember." His father said

"Hmmmm" was his mother's response.

"What are you thinking Alma?" Gerry asked

"Nothing ….nothing at all."

Dinner had ended and the three were relaxing in the den study enjoying their after dinner drinks … they continue to discuss today's events ...including he divorce….. "You run the publishing division so we did not interfere….but what you did to Olivia was wrong Fitz," his father said.

"I used the contract as it is written for all authors under contract with us." Fitz answered.

"Olivia was not just an author she was your wife Fitz." Alma Grant snorted "A wife you had cheated on. You destroyed her personal and professional life….. You lived up to your reputation as a take no prisoners hard businessman but you failed as a man and as a husband ." Alma Grant added

"I was just trying to get her to talk to me…to fight for us."

"How did that go son ?" his father scoffed

"I messed up….ok… Mom I need to ask you a favor...Olivia had cast on her right leg today...would you call Harrison and see if he will tell you anything."

"Fitz why didn't you say something earlier ...of course I will call Harrison...as friend not as your mother. Do you think it was serious?"

"mom I don't know...would you make that call as soon as possible...something is off. Something was off about today."

"Fitz I will call Harrison tomorrow...ok."

They finished their drinks then Fitz said his goodbye…as he was putting on his coat his mother walked up and gave him a hug…not saying a word. She disagreed with how he handled his personal life but he wanted him to know she still supported him although she did not support his actions.

FITZ said goodbye to his parents and went home to an empty house that held so many great memories. He found himself being consoled by a large glass of scotch hoping it would get him through the night. It did not help how he felt but it did help him get to sleep .

The next day Mellie came by with lunch from one of his favorite restaurants. It was one that was a favorite of his when they dated years ago but he had found others he liked better. He felt like he was trying to enjoy something that no longer held any joy, living in days that had long past..

Not really having an appetite he picked at his food . Mellie noticed and asked if he would like to go straight to dessert.

Fitz was only half listening to her as she got up and locked the door to the office and removed her dress which revealed only the skimpiest briefs with no bra. It was a sight that hit him below the belt since he had not had sex in nearly a year but the only thing he could think of was the feel of Olivia's body. He desperately wanted relief from his stored-up sex need as his manual stimulation only went so far but he did not want just any woman and he wanted his wife…. his ex-wife .

Mellie moved over to him and was now sitting on the edge of the table loosening his belt before when he stopped her

"Fitz I was just going to give you a sample of the menu you will enjoy on our trip. Remember when this was so something we both looked forward to…dessert after lunch…... what's wrong?"

Fitz stood up , picked Mellie's dress up from the floor and handed it to her. As he did he noticed her handbag sitting in the chair it had distinctive crossed entwined letters which were her initials. He started to remember something …. he remembered seeing those same initials somewhere in a haze..….. . He was trying to focus and recall if it was a real memory or a dream. Whatever it was killed anything with Mellie….today or in the near future. He did not want a one night stand….a quickie at lunch …he had enough of those. He wanted a real relationship and Mellie was not what he considered real relationship material..

Mellie threw the dress aside and wrapped her arms around him planting a kiss hard on his lips.

Fitz sidestepped her saying he had a full schedule the next few weeks and he would not be able to get away for some time. He wanted to put his personal life on hold for a time.

"But Fitz we have planned this for a couple of months,… I thought it would be our coming out party …letting everyone know we are a couple again."

It then occurred to Fitz…., the photos the lack of any demands for money….now a faint memory …. It wasn't business it was personal… what the person wanted was for his marriage to fall apart and make him easy picking. Who could be behind those pictures…. behind what happened to his marriage….he had to think…to figure this out. So stupid…Fitz you are so stupid. He remembered the comment from his mother. He had never before considered the photos were personal not business...very personal..

He had to have time and space to think …he needed to talk to his parents.

Mellie dressed and got her clothes in order just as his secretary Charlotte buzzed to tell him his mother was on the line.

"Tell her I will call her right back. "

Fitz turned to Mellie…..

"Sorry Mel…. work calls. I will get back to you soon but let's put the two of us back together on hold….I'm still trying to figure out what I'm going to do now. I'm sorry we planned this getaway…give me some time I'll get back to you."

Mellie knew about the final court date and planned the weekend around it. She would make herself available…..be there for him…..Fitz would not get away... this time he would be hers.

"Why Fitz we are perfect for each other…. I love you…. I always have…. I know you may not feel the same for me right now but give it time… we make a great team. Can we stay in touch….is it ok if I call you just to talk? "

"Mellie sure we can keep in touch….…. I'll get back to you but not this week… soon but not this week." Fitz said as he ushered her out the door ….. kissing her on the cheek as she stepped onboarded the elevator.

Was someone behind those pictures and was it a personal attack on him or on Olivia. He needed to find out did…is he is guilty of what the photos indicated ...did he do what the photos indicated he did... If he started to ask questions now would everyone think he was trying to cover his misdeeds. Did he really want to find out?…...if he did…. would it prove he was capable of hurting the woman he married in such a callous manner. Was the old Fitz back? He wanted to know but he was afraid of the answer he might find.

Fitz called his mother to see if she had any news about Olivia..."Mom did you talk to Harrison...what did he say?"

" I told him I was calling to ask about Olivia and the cast on her leg. He said Olivia was fine then laughed to say Fitz is shameless using his mother as a go between. I reminded him I was , and still am, a friend of Olivia and his. I extended them a invitation for a visit at their earliest convenience."

"Do you believe him?"

"Nope...he was talking in lawyer language not the language of a friend but I accepted his answer...let it go I will contact him again in a month maybe things will be less hazy."

A week after her final court date Olivia was still scouring the real estate pages hoping to find an affordable two-bedroom apartment that she could keep for about a year . She had the money from Gerry but she knew she had to get back on her feet again, personal and financially without solely depending on others. Olivia was also determined that she would repay Gerry Grant…she did not want to come across as a victim to anyone especially her former in-laws.

There was a knock …thinking it was room service she walked over and opened the door too late to hide when she saw it was Alma Grant her former mother-in-law. Covering her stomach with her hands she stepped back as Alma entered the room.

"I knew something was off...wrong…. I suspected something…. but never this"..…...Alma Grant said as she walked into the room and closed the door.

"Mrs. Grant…."

"Mrs. Grant my foot… its still Alma…Olivia why are you hiding ...why did you hide your pregnancy from Fitz …. from all of us?

The two walked deeper into the room just as there was another knock at the door….this time it was room service

"Sorry this baby eats 24/7. As soon as I have breakfast he starts demanding lunch."

"He….you are having a boy?"

" Yes … he is due to make his appearance very soon "

The food was wheeled into the dining area as Olivia and Alma sat at the table. Olivia took the top off the dishes …..offering to share with Alma.

"Yep…it's a boy ", Olivia answered as she filled her plate from every container on the cart. " Sorry this kid has a big appetite and he wants a little of everything. Can we talk while I eat? It's a boy and he's due in a couple of weeks."

"Why didn't you tell us…tell Fitz?"

"It's not something I want to talk about right now."

Olivia finished her food ,covered the nearly empty dishes and rolled the cart to the side. The two then went into the living room.

Alma took a seat on the sofa Olivia took one in a chair opposite her. "I'll sit here this stomach makes it hard for me to get up sometimes."

Alma smiled at her comment …"I'm not going to ask if you are carrying my grandchild…. I know you are…. How long have you know you were having a boy?"

"I've only known a month. At first I did not want to know but I changed my mind when I saw the doctor during my last visit."

" A boy…." Alma smiled broadly. "His grandfather will be walking on air. You should not be alone and definitely not in a hotel room."

Alma looked around at the papers Olivia had covering the tables and floor." Are you looking for a permanent place to live?"

Olivia nodded yes

"An apartment or house?"

"An apartment for now until I decide where I'm going to settle." Olivia answered.

Olivia picked the papers up and leafed through the ads. " I don't know where I'm going after he is born. I'll stay here for now because of Abby, you know her. She will be here to help me."

"Stay here meaning this hotel of New York?"

"Not this hotel…..an apartment in New York for now ….…I'm will look for a permanent place to settle outside of New York after the baby is born. ….."

"mmmm" Alma mumbled to herself….

"I know the perfect apartment.…. l own an eight unit building in a great location ….. I recently had two apartments redecorated and they are empty …. you can move in today."

"Alma…no way" Olivia said shaking her head.

"Look no grandchild of mine will have a hotel as a home address no matter how upscale it is. Take the apartment it has three bedrooms and is already furnished with new appliances….. You can replace whatever you want.."

Olivia stood up from her chair and walked into the kitchen returning with a bottle of water for her and one for Alma. She was trying to give herself time and a polite way to say no. She absolutely did not want any additional contact with any members of the Grant family, permanent or temporary …not until well after the baby was born.

"We can turn one bedroom into a nursery …. The other one your friend Abby and I can use when we visit overnight to help you. You will need a lot of help the first month. It's not easy being a new mom… the books say it's hard and trust me they are correct.…its tough. You will have a little irrational human who thinks sleep is only for him and thinks the world revolves around him…... If this baby…your son… is anything like his father you will have many sleepless night for the first two months."

Alma took Olivia's hands…... "Look my son is an ass…let me do what I can to help until you decide what you want to do…... No strings and I will not tell my son anything…please Olivia. You may hate Fitz you may hate us but your son….my grandson….is a heir to the Grant fortune. Like it or not he is a part of the Grant family. His father does not have any say about that."

"He will disown him if has the same attitude that he has now."…

Alma knew things Olivia did not know….she knew Fitz was not the ogre he had shown Olivia during the divorce.

"Olivia, I know you…. I know you are carrying Fitz' child…. Fitz can disown him…. Fitz can have other children, but this child is the first... will always be the oldest Grant grandchild who also happens to be a male. . There isn't anything that can change that … Gerry and I will make sure he is always well taken care of."

Olivia shrugged her shoulders "How do you know Gerry will agree with you?"

"He doesn't have a choice…. how do you think I found you…? Gerry told me what he did…we don't have any secrets…... I wanted to let you know I fully agreed with what he did …I never expected this. I suspected something but never this. Now that I think about it… it makes sense "

Olivia just stared at her

"Talk to me Olivia…."

"Nothing to talk about I received the pregnancy report at about the same time I received the photos of Fitz in bed with another woman. I was going to surprise him I guess I am the one who got the real surprise. I moved out and filed for my divorce the next day."

"You filed before you talked to him?"

Olivia shook her head

"There was nothing to talk about…. did you see the photos…all of them?"

"I saw a couple…I refused to look at any after the first two."

"There were about a dozen…How did you find out about them?" Olivia asked

"Fitz had to show them to his father and I …he was expecting some type of blackmail. In his position the photos could have put the company in a bad way. The very married heir to the Grant fortune being caught in bed with another woman. It would have cast him in a very negative light as unfit to lead Grant. The future leadership of the company could have been up for grabs…. Maybe even going to an outsider. We had to discuss it so he had to tell his dad and I. . He was also concerned that you would use them in the divorce."

Olivia shook her head….."I would never do that it would hurt too many people who had nothing to do with his actions. First it would hurt you, it would hurt the company, employees , the stock holders. By keeping the photos hidden...out of the papers I was the only one hurt..…it's a small price to pay. Telling the world would not have changed the facts."

"When Fitz started to press you , to take away everything… why did you still keep quiet?"

"Same reason…. too many people would get hurt including this bundle of joy I am carrying ." Olivia said as she rubbed her stomach.

"Olivia I'm sorry…I won't encourage it , and I don't expect you to forgive Fitz but please allow Gerry and I to be a part of our grandson's life."

" I was going to tell you….at some point maybe. It all depended on Fitz remarrying and having additional children. I may have never said anything .. I may have waited years before I told anyone. Why are you so sure ...How do you know it's your grandson?"

"I know you."

"I thought I knew Fitz …. look how that turned out. I just needed time to think …think without any stress."

"Is that why you agreed with everything Fitz demanded …. giving him everything even things he never demanded."

"Yes …I wanted it over before he discovered I was pregnant. I don't want my child growing up in two different houses…. Two sets of parents…. Never really belonging anywhere…never ever really having a home. I want him in one house where he has his room…a room in a house he can remember as his home. I want to protect him."

Olivia dropped her head as the tears started to well-up in her eyes.

"Alma my parents divorced when I was six I will not have that life for my child, the only other option is to give total custody to Fitz and I will never do that…. hiding him is my only option."

"When he ask about his father what do you plan to tell him?"

" That's a long time I the future. Maybe by then I can tell him the truth. That both his parents love him but decided it was best that he stay with his mother. "

"Olivia no need to explain ….as a mother I understand…. how are you…. when is your due date again?".

"I'm fine …. baby Is due any day now."

"Except your search for an apartment have you made any other plans?"

"None just looking for an apartment. I won't be going out much so I should not see Fitz ...I've been able to avoid him so far... I'll stay here in New York for at least three months….. maybe a year then move somewhere north….somewhere I can make a living and I won't see Fitz."

"Olivia we own businesses all over….there is always that chance. Stop looking…take the apartment I'm offering…. You two can stay there for the next eighteen years or longer. You want a permanent home this is it.. The best place to hide from Fitz is right under his nose …in an apartment owned by his family… say yes…you can move in today…. Use Gerry's credit card to order what you need for the nursery…. ."

Olivia shook her head no….."Alma I can't…...accepting the money is already too much…I won't take any more from you plus I don't want to get between you and Fitz any more than I already have. I don't want Fitz to somehow see any bills for the baby furniture …and I really don't want Gerry or you to lie to your son for me."

"Olivia if I don't tell him about the baby I'm also lying to him."

"Yes but that's a lie of omission…".

"My son deserves to be lied to. Please….Will you take the apartment."

"Nope I can't…Abby and Stephen will help with the basics. . Once I find an apartment things will settle….but I really appreciate you volunteering to help me. Gerry gave me enough to cover about a year….. if I'm careful a couple …..it will be ok I will be back on my feet soon….l can make it on my own."

Alma sat forward on the sofa…back straight. " Olivia this is how it's going to go…I am going to tell Gerry…...as soon as he knows you know what will happen he going to go all alpha male about his grandson and Fitz will probably find out…then everything you have been trying to prevent is going to happen. I am not asking you to take the apartment I'm telling you to take it . It's the one way to protect your child, at least for a while. I will lie to my stupid son but I will not lie to my husband about our grandchild. "

"Alma why are you pressuring me?" Tears started running down Olivia's cheeks."

Alma walked over and hugged Olivia…"I'm not pressuring you I'm trying to do the best thing for you and the baby. I would never survive if something happened to either of you that I could have prevented …..just consider it a helping hand from a friend,….You are willing to accept help from Abby why won't you accept help from Gerry and I... it's just like Abby."

Olivia kept pulling at her top… "I accept. but understand I will still try to find someplace else to settle. I have my law degree and have been doing some temporary work reviewing contracts for small firms.I did some temporary work for the firm where Abby works proof reading contracts. Maybe I should have read my contract with Grant a bit closer. I still prefer writing but maybe I will use writing as a hobby and get a real job to pay the bills."

"Olivia you will never have had to worry about a real job to pay the bills…."….. Alma did not say more. She did not want to put Fitz further in the doghouse with Olivia….the clause in her contract Fitz used was an option he could have passed on..

"Alma I am not looking to cash in on a Grant heir."

"I know ….stop worrying….stop stressing. Pregnancy puts enough stress on the body…. let me and my husband take some of it off. The baby needs someone to take care of him…. makes sense that instead of a nanny he gets his mother."

Alma put her hand on Olivia`s shoulder

"Pack a few things Olivia…enough for a couple of days I will arrange for the rest later….. let me show you your new home…."

Olivia packed a small day bag and followed Alma out the door. "Abby is going to really miss the room service menu."

"Don't worry Olivia the apartment is located in the middle of the best restaurants in town…and they all deliver. If you want something from Four Seasons we can arrange that."

The two women walked towards the elevator and waited then ….. Olivia stopped …she had a thought "Is Daniel driving you?"

"Yes" Alma answered.

"He will tell Fitz maybe not on purpose."

"Ok I'll send him home I'll tell him I'm with a friend and she will drop me off."

Alma made a quick call to Daniel who protested when she insisted that he leave her.

"Mrs. Grant I've been told too many times by your husband my job is looking out for you…you are my sole responsibility when I am with you. I can't leave you."

"Daniel I am sorry let me call Gerry and clear it with him."

A quick call to Gerry who told Daniel it was ok. The two ladies took a hotel courtesy car to the apartment.

A four story eight until apartment building with two apartments on each floor. Olivia's apartment was on the top floor. A sun porch led to a patio on the roof from two of the three bedrooms. . It was more than Olivia could ever have hoped for. She would be able to sit on the roof patio , get some sun , some fresh air and not worry about running into Fitz when she wanted to take a break from the apartment.

It was a dream accommodation.. Three bedrooms , three and a half baths. Laundry room, new appliances ,sun porch off two of the bedrooms, near Central Park. . …Best of all, as Alma said , a great location near a half dozen restaurants she loved and they all delivered…but only a short distance from Fitz and his penthouse so she would have to be careful.

"Who lives in the other apartment Olivia asked…wondering if she had to be careful about her neighbor?"

"No-one lives on this floor except you. This building was left to me by my family… Gerry and I used to live here. At one time these two apartments were used by visiting family or company executives who were going to be in the city for an extended time on company business. They have not been used in some time which gave me time to do some much needed repairs and redecorate. All the other tenants have been here a long time so I don't think you will be bothered , no one asking to borrow sugar."

Alma continued to walk through the apartment explaining everything and answering Olivia's questions.

"There is a private elevator that takes you to the parking garage or first floor that is activated by a key. No-one can get in unless you admit them or unless they have a key…You will have one I have one, Gerry doesn't even have one. .The other apartment will not be rented or used while you are here …..no matter how long that is…you have the entire floor for you and the baby. I will tell Gerry everything …I will not tell Fitz and I will do everything I can to make sure he does not find out you are here or about the baby but you know things happen…..things you never anticipate."

Olivia gave Alma a hug as they stood at the elevator. " Thank you", she told her former mother -in-law. "

"No thank you for not disappearing …you could have before we found out. …."

Alma had the car from the hotel wait for her and it dropped her off at home. When she arrived Fitz opened the door for her as the car was pulling away.

"Hi mom…I thought dad said your friend was going to drop you off….didn't you just get out of a hotel courtesy car?"

"Fitzgerald I'm your mom you are not mine.. What business is it how I got home?"

"I just noticed it's a car from Four Seasons …why are you using a hotel courtesy car…are you stepping out on dad?

When Fitz said Four Seasons Gerry, who had just walked into the hall when he heard the door open, gave Alma a look she returned it with one that said "shut up".

"What's going on are you two having problems. I hope my divorce is not catching."

Gerry gave his son a stern look…."we are not as stupid as you are."

"Why am I stupid I tried everything I could to prevent Olivia from divorcing me dad she would not talk to me. From the time she filed for divorce to now she has not spoken one world directly to me. If she screamed at me it would have been better…. Better than …total silence."

"Do you blame her Fitz…..I've got some things to do I'll visit some other time." Alma said walking into her husband's office.

Fitz looked puzzled at his mother as she left the room. He has rarely seen this Alma…something is really wrong.

Gerry called out…" can I help with anything?" He figured her demeanor , the fact that she was at Four Seasons and did not let Daniel bring her home indicated she was with Olivia . Did something go wrong? He needed to find out but he could not ask with Fitz in the house so he had to visit with his son while he was on pins and needles wondering what happened.

Once Fitz left he made a beeline for this office., Alma was on her laptop which she closed as soon as he entered.

"Was Fitz right are you stepping out on me."

Alma gave him a look with a huff…."don't be silly. Let me make a quick call."

Gerry waited quietly until she got her party on the phone. "Olivia I'm here with Gerry may we come by tomorrow." Gerry could not hear the answer from Olivia...the other person Alma indicated was on the line.

"Ok, tomorrow at five…we will bring dinner. Call and let me know what you want. I've ordered some basics to be delivered tonight so listen for the bell. The store I ordered from knows to make the delivery through the basement parking area. I ordered some juices, breakfast foods , pastries, rolls, bread , fruit,, deli meat and some of the same snacks I saw at the hotel. The apartments are cleaned weekly so everything should be ok...I will send a crew over tomorrow morning to clean the bathrooms and kitchens again. We will see you tomorrow."

Gerry was looking at Alma…when she hung up the phone he mouthed "'Olivia".

"Yes Olivia " she answered…"we are seeing her tomorrow for dinner".

Tom drove Fitz back to his penthouse apartment. The drive was quiet and loneliness always set in when he left his parents house now because for three years Olivia was always with him or waiting for him… after a spirited dinner with his parents. The would often end the evening making love for hours. Now all he had to look forward to was his hand or a cold shower. He had the desire for a woman but his desire was for a particular woman, Olivia. He had taken a couple of women to dinner but the evening always ending at their front door.

His former girlfriend Mellie was trying to come back into his life but that had been put on the back burner until …until forever maybe. He and Mellie have talked several times since their "lunch" but it was always a casual friendly conversation nothing that moved them into the lets be lovers again territory .

He absolutely did not want to look at the photos but he had to look at them again before he could answer questions that were eating at him...

He understood why Olivia left…but why divorce him without talking to him . She never let him explain but then he did not have an explanation for the photos.

The next morning Gerry Grant found his wife in his office on her computer which she closed once he entered the room. " I ordered your usual breakfast make sure you let me know when you leave."

"Let you know when I leave….Alma we have had breakfast every day for over thirty years …without fail if possible . What has happened to make you change this schedule today.. What happened yesterday when you saw Olivia?"

"Gerry it will all be explained when we see her. I don't want to go over the same thing twice."

"Just tell me something…please."

"All questions will be answered today at five."

Fitz still smarting from his mother's curt answers the day before stopped by his fathers office at 4:30 to find her there…..He wanted to talk to his father about the photos but seeing his mother there he put it off…again.

"Hi mom…..would you two like to join me for dinner…my treat."

"Nope….. sorry Fitzgerald …we have plans."

" Fitzgerald….wow….what have I done…..Could you include one more person…me….your son…..in those plans. Did you hear any more about Olivia?"

Alma's head snapped as she looked at her son...I haven't heard anything more from Harrison."

"Mom...dad can I tag along...I promise I will not make a fuss."

Both his parents started laughing

"Nope…you would definitely be in the way." His father answered

"Have you two replaced me?"

"yes we have with a younger model…come of Gerry we are going to be late."

"I was just making sure I ordered everything you told me including the ice cream."

Alma gave her husband a look that said " that was an answer you could have kept quiet.".

"Now I really am inquisitive…you two fluff me off to have dinner with someone else and you have to bring the food."

"Maybe we are having a picnic…Fitz mind your own business ."

The two left walking at a rapid pace to the elevator leaving their son with a quizzed look on his face.

Fitz made a mental note to see if Tom could find out from Daniel where the two had gone tonight. But then Tom would never tell anyone about his activities so why would Daniel. He voided that idea..

Daniel had picked up two orders of food before he picked Alma and Gerry up…he had one more stop which was on the way to the address he had been given.

First Daniel wondered…. …who they were visiting and bringing take-out. Wouldn't it be easier to eat in a restaurant?

…...Gerry wondered with the amount of food who else except Olivia was there. Were they having a party?.

When they arrived Daniel recognized the address and the building . It was the apartment used by the company for long term family members or executive staff. . He was directed to the parking garage then he got out of the car to carry the boxes of food in. Alma waved him off after he helped them carry the food to the elevator, each one taking several bags. "Daniel pick us up at seven…if we are running late we will call."

This really was out of character for Mrs. Grant…out of character two days in a row but he knew an apartment in the building is one Grant family members use when they are in town so he stopped thinking about the why's and if's . He left the car in the underground parking and walked to a nearby restaurant. He would do dinner and a movie ...he had two hours..

As soon as Daniel left Alma called Olivia and told her they were on the way up. Gathering the bags and boxes of food the two struggled to the open door. Olivia was in the kitchen setting the table with her back to the door when they entered. Alma told Gerry to put the food he was carrying on the table near the door and she would come back help him carry it into the kitchen.

"Alma I have carried it this far I can make it to the kitchen."

"Gerry put the food down I don't want you to drop it."

"What you think I am an doddering old fool who can't carry a couple of bags?"

"You are old but not doddering….put the bags down now."
Gerry put the bags down just as Olivia turned giving him a full frontal view and it was not sexual….…..a loud WTF escaped his lips.

"Now do you understand why I told you to put the bags on the table?"

"Gerry looked closely at Olivia, grabbed her in a hug and picked her up. "I know it's a boy that's why my wife has been smiling since she came home last night…when are you due and how did you hide this for us, ?'' It's evident Fitz doesn't know…why did you hide this from him?"

Gerry kept talking not letting Olivia answer….

"I thought we were having a party…now I know this food is all for you….this baby is just like Fitz…Alma ate for seven months twenty four hours a day. Now I know why Daniel was sent home last night and Alma would not let him past the elevator tonight . This also explains why you were so testy with Fitz last night and this afternoon, Alma….. Olivia the best surprise ever and the absolute best place for you to stay., I'm assuming because of my son's actions the knowledge of his son is being kept from him?"

Gerry had not let Alma or Olivia say a word, he had been talking non-stop since he saw her very large stomach..

"Boy right…and when are you due?"

Finally Olivia had an opportunity to answer….".boy yes…due any day now."

" Any day now …You can't be left alone….."

" Abby had been staying with me as much as she couldan while I was at the hotel…she loved their room service menu….. I am sure she will continue to visit me here. All her favorite restaurants are nearby and they deliver. "

"You need family with you ….You have three bedrooms we can take turns…Alma one night me one night, Abby one night."

"Nope Gerry I'm fine. You guys have done enough….the money and a place to live . I don't have to worry about being homeless with a new baby ."

"When you go into labor you wont be fine.. you may not be able to get help or access the elevator to let help in….between Alma, Abby and I someone will be with you until this baby is born. Ok lets eat I am famished."

The three talked about everything baby Grant …..Gerry told Alma and Olivia he would have a personal shopper pick up everything and set up the nursery...even a fresh paint job... Fitz would not find out about the baby until Olivia wanted him to find out. They would not break her confidence.

Olivia kept saying they had done enough.

Alma took Olivia's hand "I told you once he found out he would go all alpha male so just relax and let him have his way. He's been waiting a long time for this Olivia don't spoil it for him."

"Alma you stay tonight I'll have some clothing put in the other apartment tomorrow. The nights I stay I will sleep over there. That apartment is empty right ….?"

"Yes Gerry the apartment is empty." his wife answered

"Good… this was a great idea Alma. Now I am reminded why I married you beauty and brains."

"Olivia I know this is a touchy subject but have you decided on a name Fitzgerald Thomas Grant lV sounds good." Gerry asked

Olivia took a deep breath " Gerry that name belongs to Fitz's first male child with his new wife."

"What new wife…?"

"lt isn't the name for an outside child?"

"outside child….what outside child ?"

"Fitz and I are not married….that name should go to the child who is the product of Fitz and his wife."

Gerry looked at Olivia….."you are one stubborn woman…..Have you decided on a name?"

"Paul Jeffrey Pope…..he'll carry my last name. Jeffrey is my grandfather's name."

"well Olivia can this grandfather have his name included some where. What about Jeffrey Thomas Pope…..I want him to know he is a part of us…to carry a part of the Grant name that goes back five generations."

Olivia looked at the grandparents faces and could not say no….." Jeffrey Thomas Pope it is."

The visit ended at seven they did not want to make Daniel any more suspicious than he was already. Gerry returned home with him Alma stayed with Olivia, knowing her husband she had packed a small case.

. Over the next two weeks either Abby , Gerry of Alma was with Olivia….Gerry would not take anything less. No nurses ... no strangers …only family and friends. The three divided the days up. Abby had to work so she or Gerry stayed nights …..Alma took the day shift. As the due date neared everyone was on pins and by the second week his housekeeper Mildred asked to talk to both of them This was one of the few times they were home at the same time although Alma was getting ready to leave.

They both sat down to talk to her but Mildred asked to move the conversation to the office.

"Mr. & Mrs. Grant…I have been with you before your son was born. Something is going on and I am hurt that you don't trust me enough to tell me. This is the first time I have seen you both in the house at the same time in over a week. I could always set my watch by your schedules but not the past couple of weeks. What is going on... I will not ask can I help I know I can help….you two look totally tuckered out."

"Mildred nothing is going on."

"Sir, mam, I could believe that but I took a call from a delivery service about some baby furniture that was being delivered to the apartment on Vine St. I know that building. Just tell me I will not tell anyone. If your son, who seems to be here all the time now, had taken that call he would have had a lot of questions. I think whatever is happening involves him and he doesn't know that's why he's here so much… he is snooping. I am your employee and your housekeeper I would also hope, after over thirty years I am someone you can trust."

The two looked at each other

"Let me tell you what I think…..I think Mrs. Olivia Grant is pregnant with your grandchild but the child's father , Fitzgerald Grant, doesn't know…am I right?"

Neither answered.

"Let me take you out of your misery…I saw the very pregnant Mrs. Olivia Grant in the store shopping…she did not see me. That was several weeks ago. She had her hat pulled down tight over her head and she was wearing a coat but the items in her basket screamed expectant mom…..plus she had that pregnant wobble . From your recent activity I guess the two of you just found out and you are busy getting her settled in the apartment on Vine and furnishing the nursery. I also guess because you two are often away, shall I say missing in action, her due date is near and you do not want to leave her alone. So now call and just tell her that I know ….…tell her I will be with her every day until she delivers so then you two can get some rest. Should I get my coat Mrs. Grant you can call Mrs. Olivia Grant from the car and tell her we are on the way. I already have a bag packed. I will stay with her until she delivers then we can figure things out afterwards"

With Mildred being involved things were much better …one more person not to hide it from but also one more person who knew, As Alma said…..something could happen that was unanticipated…Mildred seeing Olivia shopping was definitely unanticipated. But with her help and the fact that she stayed 24/7 everything was easier for the other three.

Olivia and Mildred were able to get the house set up for the baby. Fitz asked about Mildred he was told she was visiting a sick friend.

As the due date neared Gerry tried to make sure every T had been crossed. He had even checked Fitz health coverage to make sure Olivia would not have any problems. He decided, during one of his visits to ask Olivia about her doctor and what hospital the delivery would take place. This was one thing to that they ha never discussed mainly because the arrangements had been made before Alma and Gerry .

"Olivia what about the hospital an the doctor...You are still covered under Fitz's insurance, I checked."

Olivia knew this was a conversation she really did not want to have but babies take decisions away.

"Gerry I arranged with my Dr. to use an in home mid-wife."

Gerry looked at Olivia in disbelief..."Olivia this is the 21st Century...we have hospitals."

"Gerry remember my plans were made so Fitz would not find out...nothing like someone recognizing me even if I used an assumed name . Dr. Ware suggested a mid-wife...they are safe ... I trust his advice and him."

"Olivia I don't agree...what if something goes wrong?"

Olivia sighed...I understand how you feel...Living here makes everything so much better . The midwife will visit me each day the next two weeks to see how I'm progressing...she will probably be here when my water breaks or Mildred can call her .We have been working together during my entire pregnancy even during during my appointments with Dr. Ware ... I feel comfortable with her...its safe and it's ok. If anything goes wrong they will call for help.

Gerry was not happy but he decided this was out of his control . What was under his control once labor started he would send an ambulance to the apartment .

Mildred enjoyed being with Olivia she was a funny and friendly as she remembered. . Gerry told Mildred …her only job was making sure Olivia was ok... If the apartment needed cleaning she was to call a professional cleaning service….Olivia could stay in the other apartment while they were there. She was reminded daily…. when labor pains started she was to call the mid-wife and Alma if things started to go wrong call for an ambulance..

Once the mid-wife began her daily visits everyone knew the Grant heir would soon arrive.

Whenever Daniel dropped one off at the apartment they told him,Daniel, they were visiting family and would call to let him know when to pick them up. . He did not believe them but they were the boss why would he question them.

Fitz on the other hand was wondering about the change in his parents. He was concerned but his mother assured him both she, and Gerry, were was fine. When Gerry he was at work he was distracted usually arriving late and leaving early. One day in the middle of an important meeting Gerry received a call from, Alma….he took the call told everyone he would be off the next few days and left, no explanation.

Soon he was nearly back to his old schedule ... but better….he just seemed to smile a lot more but still arrived an hour later than his usual normal hours and often left an hour early. Whenever Fitz visited his parents one was always missing.…when he asked he was given a vague answer. He noticed Mildred was also missing several days at a time. When he asked Daniel he was told he did not know anything he dropped them off at a building across town…usually after picking up food. Fitz was the son who was he to question his parents. But he would soon if things did not normalize .

He also noticed a picture of a baby on his fathers desk and the exact same picture among the family photos at their home. When Fitz casually asked his father he said a proud grandfather wanted to share the new addition to his family. He never elaborated and usually shut the conversation down. When he asked his mother about the same photo at the house she told him to mind his own business….she did not tell him how to decorate at his house and she did not want any decorating ideas from him for hers. Over the past few months his mother had become more testy with him. Often walking out in the middle of a conversation…and all her conversations became short and curt .. He was discovering a mother he had never seen.

Gerry noticed Alma's attitude towards Fitz and decide he should say something to her.

"Alma….give Fitz a break…..he doesn't know and you are punishing him for what he is unaware of….both you and Olivia are punishing him."

Alma gave her husband a stern look….."Gerry I'm mad as hell with him…sometimes it's impossible to remain in the same room. He is missing one of the few events in life that can never be duplicated . No matter how many children he fathers…..…the first child…. the first few months of a baby….they are priceless and his little head destroyed these precious moments for him and for the child. I remember you sleeping with Fitz on your chest when you got up for his 2am feedings. He is missing all that and that makes me mad. As his mother and as Jeffrey's grandmother I am mad because Jeffrey is also missing the closeness that only a father can bring. He is missing the early bonding months… Yes... I am mad as hell."

Gerry just shrugged his shoulders….he knew his wife was right. "Please try to be nicer…..or less mean which ever is easier."

The four helpers and Olivia got through the first two months without much of a problem. By taking turns Jeffrey was not able to wear any of the out. By month four a routine was established. Both Alma and Gerry spent two days a week with Olivia ...trying to help but not seem overbearing. Gerry was enjoying being a grandfather as much as he enjoyed being a father. They too were walking a tightrope. They wanted her to stay but they did not want to appear they were pressuring her...not giving Olivia the space she needed .

After several more months things returned to normal somewhat but Fitz noticed his parents remained secretive about something. They were still away from home but not as much and they had returned to their Wednesday family dinners after putting them on hold , or improvising, for several months. . Finally Fitz asked Tom who told him his parents were are spending a lot of time at the building they owned on Vine near Central Park. Fitz knew the building it was one his mother owned and sometimes used by family member... he even went there one night to check it out but nothing was amiss so he let it go. His parents had a friend who needed their help when they wanted him to know they would tell him., he assumed.

He still missed Olivia …. now more than ever. His relationship with his mother had changed …..For the past year the first thing he thought of every morning was Olivia and she was the last thing he though of each night. He had started to sleep in one of his spare bedroom after he could no longer stand to sleep in the bed they had shared. When he woke up he would automatically reach for her but nothing….hoping it was all a dream. He no longer used the master bath…with all her toiletries and bath items. He had put them the trash can when she first left but soon replaced them, he just needed something of hers in his life. He could no longer use the bath or sleep in the bed but sometimes during his really dark moments when he really missed her he would sit in the master bath and remember their years together….. .It was grating at him and his mothers attitude made it worse. The two most important women in his life, one he was divorced from the other seemed to be holding him at arms length..

In the middle of all this Mellie was still on his trail…calling and inviting herself over to his office or the penthouse. He was not in the mood and soon started ignoring her calls. But that did not stop her…she would show up at his office with lunch. This happened so much Fitz finally had to just tell her….this was his place of business and she should visit only if she made an appointment and had business to discuss. This helped some but every Monday and Thursday at 8pm the phone rang and the caller ID said Mellie. He knew Mellie was trying to keep the door open to a relationship but she just did not understand the Fitz/Mellie ship had sailed years ago. He tried to maintain a friendship but her idea of friendship and his were two different things.

He had stopped meeting his friends for drinks afraid of running into Mellie so he had become a captive in either his office , his apartment or stopping for dinner at the restaurants he and Olivia enjoyed.

He started to visit some of the restaurants that were her favorite, hoping he would see her…no luck . He asked Bill from her favorite Italian restaurant if he had seen her …nothing. One day several months ago he saw Abby picking up a take out. He asked her about Olivia…..Abby denied she was in contact with her but Fitz knew that was a lie , they were best friends. When he asked Bill about the order he discovered it contained two of Olivia's favorites. He knew then she was still in town and Abby was still in touch. Bill told him he received the identical order from a Carolyn Wright about every two weeks the few past six months .. He was certain it was Olivia…her mother's maiden name was Wright and she was using her middle name Carolyn to place the order. He was a happy man she was still in town…maybe just maybe he would run into her if she were still eating at the same places as before….but alas no sign of her as he trolled their favorite restaurants, trying to find Olivia trying to avoid Mellie .. For him it was one step forward two back…none of their old friends had seen her. He even made an appointment with her lawyer, Harrison, asking about her. Harrison used his attorney client line and refused to give him any information but he did say something interesting "Fitz I'm sure in time you two will reach a middle ground because you two have a real reason to be civil to each other" , he thought about the comment but decided it was a puzzle he could not unravel.

The Grant family were having their weekly Wednesday dinner that they had resumed after four months of cancelled , postponed or improvised dinners. It was their family special time together and Fitz was happy that things seemed to have returned to normal although his mother could still be curt at times. Alma cell phone rang which was absolutely forbidden…no phones at the dinner table…no calls taken during dinner but Alma Grant seemed to be breaking all her rules. She took the call and immediately stood up…".Gerry we have to go….call Daniel"

His father never said where or who was on the phone he got up called Daniel and both left the room without an explanation with Fitz following close behind. Food on the table.

"What's wrong?", he asked both…. neither answered. His mother dialed a number but there was no answer then called another and said to the person on the other end "we're on our way". They both rushed out the door.

"Wait…..what's wrong…..I'm going with you maybe I can help."

"Nope his father said…..you can't believe me."

Alma took her husband's hand…"maybe he can. If something is really wrong he needs to be there." She made room for Fitz in the car without saying where they were going or how he could possibly help with. Fitz called Tom and told him to get the address they were headed from Daniel.

Daniel pulled into the underground parking …Abby was there with a worried look on her face. "What happened?" Alma asked as she got out of the car.

"I talked to Olivia she asked me to pick up a prescription the doctor had left for her but now no one is answering her phone. I also stopped to pick up some soup because she hasn't been eating."

Alma sighed " I noticed she has been pushing her food around on her plate the past month , not really eating but I did not want to nag her she has enough on her plate. We see her twice a week trying to give her some space… trying not to appear that we are trying to influence her decision to stay here or leave."

" Alma I told you something was wrong but you kept saying it was something all first time mothers go through."'

Fitz looked at the three people around him …all talking about Olivia..

"Come on …why are we standing here talking let's get to the apartment.". Gerry interrupted the two women.

The group got into the elevator and entered the apartment by using Alma's pass key. No one answered the door or answered when they called out. There was the sound of a baby crying….. Fitz was following but at a distance. As the group entered the apartment Fitz remained standing in the hall.

They located the crying baby in the playpen in the nursery with Olivia on a nearby sofa mumbling "I'm so sick… I'm…. so sorry tell Fitz I'm sorry ask him to forgive me."

Fitz finally entered the apartment as Gerry barked at him to call an ambulance…he immediately did what his father said then looked around the room. The same photos on his fathers desk and mingled with the family photos at their home were everywhere. The living room was loaded with baby furniture. Nothing made sense to Fitz as he looked and walked around the room.

Gerry came into the living room and asked …"did you call the ambulance?"

"Dad what is going on who lives here Fitz asked ?"… deep down he knew.

He walked around the apartment almost in a trance looking at photos of a pregnant Olivia and pictures of a baby at different ages…from a newborn to a much bigger baby.

His father grabbed him shaking him out of his trance then started barking orders, " Alma you check Jeffrey , Abby you put a cold compress on Olivia's face….is she still breathing… Fitz you stay here and let the ambulance in."

"Alma when you check the baby change him and get him a bottle and dressed while we are waiting for the ambulance. I'll call Daniel and tell him to bring the paramedics in through the private elevator." Fitz watched everyone move through the apartment with such familiarity he was sure this was not their first time here.

He moved into the room where he heard Abby calling Olivia's name…moving closer he could see Olivia who seemed to be moving in and out of consciousness muttering something every time she woke up. "tell Fitz I'm sorry"….. she muttered.

"Olivia stay awake" Abby screamed at her. " you can tell him yourself."

Fitz looked at the woman who was such an important part of his life for over five years…and still was if only in his dreams. He watched her head roll back and fall to the side. Without thinking he picked her up wrapped a throw around her and headed for the door. He told Abby….call Daniel tell him I'm on my way down I'm not waiting for the ambulance. Fitz ran to the elevator with Olivia in his arms his mother followed with the now quiet baby in her arms. As they elevator descended Fitz took a look at the baby his mother was holding and saw the distinctive Grant eyes looking back at him.

When they reached the parking garage the ambulance had just arrived…they put Olivia in it… Fitz climbed in back with her.

Alma motioned him to go ahead she would follow with the baby in the car with Daniel. By this time Abby and Gerry were also in the garage …they all climbed in the car together and tried to figure out what hospital they were headed. Gerry told everyone…shut up just listen for the sirens …"Daniel do you know where the nearest hospital is?" ... Alma gave Daniel the name of the hospital they were probably headed the one she had on file in case there was a problem during the delivery.

By the time they got to the hospital Olivia had again lapsed into unconsciousness. An IV had been started an oxygen mask placed over her face. During the trip the paramedic was trying to get some basic information asking Fitz questions..

" What's her name sir and who are you to her?" he asked

"Her name is Olivia Pope….no Olivia Grant and my name is Fitzgerald Grant I'm her….he paused…husband."

"Is it Pope or Grant sir?"

Fitz hesitated …"it's Grant."

"Has she been sick…..what happened."

"I'm not sure if she had been sick and I don't know what happened."

"You are her husband and you don't know if she has been sick?"

"Just help her …please."

They got Olivia into the emergency room and was working on stabilizing her . Along came someone else with a clipboard asking the same questions but by this time Gerry, Alma and Abby had arrived and for a moment, because of Gerry Grant, their attention was directed more at making sure both Olivia and the baby were stabilized than getting any personal information.

Once Gerry Grant entered and everything changed…first he called the Chief of Staff, his golfing buddy and told him he needed the head of pediatrics and internal medicine as soon as possible to treat his daughter-in-law and his grandson.

When he said grandson Fitz' immediately gave his father a long stare.

"Stare if you want to…that's your son in the next room ." Fitz was now conflicted should he stay with Olivia or go to the next cubicle to see if the baby, his son that he knew nothing about until this moment ….was ok.

His mother solved his dilemma…"check on your son I'll stay with Olivia."

In the room with Jeffrey…..Fitz stood aside as doctor's checked the baby who was now agitated because of all the people he did not know were now poking his body and putting cold instruments on his chest. and he let them know he was not happy. Such a small baby with big lungs... he would not be still and would not stop crying.

Gerry immediately jumped in, coming from Olivia's cubicle " did any of you learn any bedside manners let me have him." Gerry picked the baby up and began to sing to him . When he heard his favorite song and a voice he recognized he immediately stopped crying. "'Now what do you guys need from him?"

"We need to make sure he is ok…..we need to examine him."

"Ok examine him but go slow and don't put those cold instruments on his chest."

The young doctor in the ER was replaced by the head of peds who was familiar with treating young babies. She took over and had soon determined nothing was wrong but wanted to keep him overnight to make sure.

"Fitz you stay with your son…Alma will fill out the admittance papers since you don't know any of the information. I will stay with Olivia and Abby . I am sure she will be admitted…I will let you know when they take Olivia to her room. "

Fitz felt like a fool…..he had a son but did not have any answers to the questions needed to admit him….he did not even know his child's name. A lot of people owed him a lot of answers…starting with his parents.

His son was headed down the hall with his father…his son's grandfather. His wife….ex-wife was with his mother and her best friend…..he was the odd man out standing there in the ER but maybe that is what he deserved. In short time his father called to tell him his son had been admitted and gave him the room number.

By the time Fitz got to the room he had moved from scared and confused to very angry. He was headed for a room... he had a room number but did not know the patient's name. He saw his father standing outside a room and went to him.

" Dad…how did all this come about. How did all this happen and I never had a clue?"

"Fitz we can talk later."

"Nope dad….not good enough we will talk now."

"Sorry son we will not…lets make sure Olivia is ok then we can talk. Maybe we should wait for her to get better then she can explain what happened and why it happened."

"You mean she can explain why I have a son that is…. How old.? How old is he and by the way what is his name?"

"Fitz his name is Jeffrey Thomas Pope and he is seven months old."

"Pope?"

"'Olivia decided he would carry her last name . She said he could change it later…she would let him decide."

"Did anyone consider letting his father know about him…. maybe giving his dad a chance to give him his last name when he was born . It would be the logical thing to do don't you think since you want a Grant heir so badly?"

Gerry got right in his son's face their noses nearly touching looking directly into his eyes. Fitz doesn't remember his father ever having that look on his face before.

" Look don't make yourself a victim…..the night your wife was going to tell you about your child you decided to spend that night with your penis inside another woman's vagina. The past seven months your mother and I along with Abby have been filling the spot of father and husband that you should have filled so don't come with the attitude because you don't have any reason for it. This is not the time or the place for your father instincts to surface."

"I never knew….that's why you were left to fill the spot for me."

"Gerry glared at his son….we filled in because instead of acting like a husband you were around town acting like you were still a single playboy. You stay with your son …..I am going to check on Olivia… when you see your mother and Abby I hope you will have dropped the "victim here" attitude. Jeffrey doesn't know you so there is a nurse with him in case he gets restless and starts to cry I will be back as soon as I can. Gerry started to walk away before he said more. He wanted to hit his son. He is sure his mother would if he had the same attitude when he saw her later.

"I suggest you take a few moments getting to know your son but I am not convinced the two of you will bond easily. Jeffrey is a baby and he can be crabby at times. He will let you know right away if he does not like you…that's why the nurse if here…. he will let you know if he does not like you."

With the last comment his father walked away making him feel like looking for a hole. After a few moments Fitz entered his sons room. Jeffrey heard someone enter and turned to look at the person. The nurse sitting with him asked Fitz if he wanted some time alone she would be outside if he started to fret.

Walking over to the bed he saw a child that was a mixture of his parents. He had the Grant eyes but his mother's nose." Well kid it's just me and you now. I believe you are the only one who doesn't hate me and that's because you don't know who I am Fitz said to himself muttering out loud… "..Jeffrey watched Fitz as he walked around the bed…looking directly at him as if saying …"where have you been" He leaned over the rail of the bed and his son reached up and grabbed his finger. Fitz smiled…..".maybe I have one friend in this family." Fitz said out loud smiling down at the baby.

"don't bet on it Jayt but has great instincts for a baby " Fitz heard a male voice say…

"I'm Dr. Ware." the voice said as he extended his hand." I delivered this guy and I heard he had been admitted."

He washed his hands then walked over to the bed ..leaning over to give him a look. Jeffrey focused on the pen in his pocket reaching for it.. "you still have a thing for my pen I see. Let's give you a look and see if we really need to keep you or can we send you on your way. "

He checked his arms and legs to make sure nothing was broken then gave his stethoscope a couple of breaths before placing it on his chest. Moving his hands along his chest and stomach to see if he showed any discomfort…nothing. " I think we can let you go home ….I wonder how is your mom is?"…..he turned to Fitz….."do you know how is Olivia doing?"

Fitz sighed "She has been admitted I'm not sure what is wrong my parents and her friend Abby is with her.,"

" you got the daddy duty?"

"Do I know you?"

"Nope but knowing his grandparents and Abby they would only leave him with someone on staff or his father. Especially if Olivia is unavailable…..I know you are not staff."

"'Do you know all the staff?"

"Nope but I know the ones in this wing. Don't be so defensive you are not the first man with daddy baby drama. "

"I've got daddy duty to a son I met less than an hour ago. He doesn't have any idea who I am."

"JayT has great sense of people . He accepts you otherwise he would have been crying when I came into the room. He has not given you that stay away from me look so you are ok... for now... but thread lightly."

"JayT?"

"that's my nickname for him…I had another Jeffrey born just before him so I gave him the nickname. He likes you."

"He doesn't knows who I am to like or dislike."

"Fitzgerald …., right ?"

Fitz nodded yes….." it's Fitz "

"Fitz I have known this guy since he was no bigger than a kidney bean. If he doesn't like you he will let you know."

"You were Olivia's doctor?"

"Yes I was Olivia's doctor when she was pregnant and now my sister and I look after the two together… not too well it seems. . Olivia asked me if I would continue to act as their doctor something about not wanting too many people to know she had a baby. My sister is his pediatrician l think you met her in the emergency room , we both work together to keep this guy, and his mom healthy…he's healthy … it looks like his mom takes good care of him but did not take care of herself."

"She has missed two appointments and refuses to take her medicine saying it makes her drowsy. I just wrote her a prescription for a medicine that was not as strong. I told her if she missed the next appointment I would hospitalize her."

"Seems you waited too long for that."

"Fitz… you are right. Her concern was who would take care of the baby if she were hospitalized... Olivia was doing everything she could to keep you from finding out to the determent of her health and I helped her . She has tried to take on all the responsibilities of both parents even with Abby and the grandparents willing to help. .. She was trying to do it alone and keep you from finding out she just extended herself too far. I should have figured it out but she kept saying she was ok and foolish me I believed her."

"Yes she can keep secrets….I know. I never even knew she was pregnant until a couple of hours ago and the baby is seven months old."

" I try not to get involved in the personal life of my patients…even my friends. …..I know Olivia , Abby and Harrison ….from high school. I remember she was married to you when she came in to see if she was pregnant... you guys are now divorced… right?... When she found out she was pregnant she was so excited ….she could not wait to tell you. What happened between her leaving my office making plans to tell you and then keeping her pregnancy a secret from everyone …even her closest friends?"

Fitz stood still looking at his feet.

"Wow…..that bad…." Dr. Ware shook his head.

Fitz continued to look down.

"With our playboy reputation always in the newspapers Olivia was undecided about marrying you. Just to let you know all her friends voted no but she went ahead anyway. I assume your playboy ways returned and she found out…. If you did not want to be the husband she deserved why did you marry her?"

"You know you are kind of blunt for someone I don't even know."

"Fitz I am blunt all the time….I was blunt when I told Olivia not to marry you. Now that you are divorced I don't see any reason not to tell you how her friends felt…including me."

"Dr. Ware I'm not the bad guy you think I am."

." Maybe not... what I do know…. I know she never discussed you after her first visit … as a friend I never inquired. She asked me to give her evening appointments and not mention her pregnancy with any of our old friends...as a friend I did what she asked. I knew she was suffering emotionally ...caused in part by the breakup of her marriage and her pregnancy... I stayed in contact Abby who assured me she was keeping an eye on her, Harrison was her attorney so I knew he was keeping an eye out. Olivia was handling her life like she wanted ...our years as friends said be there but not intrude unless asked.."

Dr. Ware turned to leave

"She's stubborn…she refused to take her medicine and she did not have an appetite because she was ill but still wouldn't take her medicine. I hope I did not drop the ball being more of a friend than her doctor. I knew the pressure she was under ….some of this is on you but I am also at fault. I feel really responsible for her being here .Do you know why she is here?"

"Nope…no idea I have not seen her in nearly a year."

"Probably not eating properly. She ate enough for four people when she was pregnant. Sometimes new mother lose their appetite once the baby is born. I told her she had to eat more because her levels were in the danger zone after she developed a respiratory infection… It came out of no-where... Not really out of no-where she had the same problem when she was a teen but was controlled by medicine ...The pills made her sleep so she refused to take them... I wrote a different prescription which she promised to take. Take her medicine ... add more vegetables and fruits but since she is here I can assume she did not take my advice."

Fitz finally looked up at the doctor…

"If you can….once she is released encourage her to eat…several small meals. .

I am going to sign the release papers for JayT I am not sure they will not release him to you."

"I can visit him but not take him."

"I believe they will release him to his grandparents. Your father, Gerry Grant used his friendship with the chief of staff so you could visit him but I am sure they will not release him to you…..probably his grandparents since they are on the record as the emergency contact….The Grants and Abby. I know because as her doctor during her pregnancy they were authorized to make all medical decisions for Olivia and JayT."

Fitz started to steam when he heard this. Dr. Ware saw the frown cross his face.

"It's not a big thing but it happens sometimes when the mother is unmarried . Grandparents or friends are the emergency contacts.".

Fitz turned to Dr. Ware….""Would you get the nurse back in I need to see my parents. Would you check to see what room Olivia is in. He was undecided should he stay with Olivia or take care of his son."

Dr. Ware got the information for Fitz who then left to find his parents... he had some harsh words for them. He found them huddled outside Olivia's room in a deep discussion.

"Would you three like to fill out the proper papers so I can take my son home."

"Where is home?" his mother asked

"Home is the penthouse where I live."

"That's not going to happen"..…Alma answered ." First legally you don't have any rights to keep him. , second you apartment is not equipped for a baby and third you don't have the basic knowledge on how to keep a baby for one night let alone for the whole time Olivia may be hospitalized."

"What's wrong with her?"

"Her slight respiratory infection has turned into pneumonia . It's touch and go right now caused in part because she has not been eating so her entire body is trying to shut down , now we have been told Jeffrey is being released. and we are trying to decide where he should stay . Our concern is if Olivia gets worse."

"Who makes the medical decisions about Olivia?" Fitz asked

"We do….she decided that because of the baby's age."

"Do I have any input ?"

"None Fitz….. absolutely none ...you are her ex husband not her husband. Abby wants to stay with Olivia…..Alma and I will take the baby back to Olivia`s. We think he will rest better in familiar surroundings even if his mother is not there everything else is the same. He knows us so he should be ok for a few days of not seeing his mother . It's either that or Children's Protective services will take him."

"Children's Protective Services. He has a parent willing to take him"…I'm his father."

" Your name is nowhere on any official forms as his father…We are his emergency contact , Olivia filed the papers when he was born. He is in good health... they will release him to us. ...we will take him home….to his home….. the one he shares with his mother…. ..Abby will stay with Olivia until morning then we will take shifts. Between us and Mildred we can make sure someone that she knows is always with her."

"Mildred knows...does everyone know except me?"

"Mildred knows because she saw a very pregnant Olivia shopping and put it together during the last weeks of her pregnancy.. ."Alma answered

"No need to take shifts if you guys will take care of my son I will stay with his mother. Just take care of him. If something starts to go wrong here I will call. Is that ok?"

Abby stepped in between Fitz and his parents..."no that's not ok…Olivia would not want you anywhere near her or her son."

"Abby since Olivia is in no condition to say I'm deciding for her and it's not her son Jeffrey is also my son."

"You can't decide you don't have any legal right to stay if we say no about anything to do with Olivia or Jeffrey."

Alma put her hand on Abby's shoulder…"let's cool down…if Fitz will stay with Olivia it will help, Jeffrey doesn't know him so he would be more help here than at the house."

"Are we in agreement?…I'll stay with Olivia…" Fits stated…. His final comment let everyone know he would remain at the hospital with Olivia.

"Yep ..I'll relive you tomorrow morning." Abby replied

"No need I will be here with her until she is better."

All three saw Fitz was determined so they accepted without further plan.

His parents picked the baby up and left. Abby, joined by Stephen, was glaring at Fitz from across the waiting room. He decided it was now or never he had to find a way to coexist with Abby until Olivia was better..

"Abby you go home and get some sleep let me stay tonight. Come by in the morning to see how she is doing…..you can make any decisions after that. Can we agree on that?"

As much as she wanted to fight with Fitz Abby knew she needed to save her strength to fight another battle another day so she agreed.

Fitz got the ok to remain in Olivia's room. He pulled a chair up to her bed took her hand in his ….rubbed it on his cheek and kissed it. Sitting there in the dark room not knowing if the love of his life would survive the night…tears started to stream down his cheeks. This was the one place he did not want to be and the only place he absolutely wanted to be.

The staff saw how concerned Fitz was so they left him alone to him stay in the room with Olivia…They were unsure about holding the hand holding but they decided maybe his contact with her would help.…they even offered to bring in a cot. He opted to sit at her bedside in a chair holding her hand. Several recognized Fitz from years ago during his clubbing bad boy days. The man they saw with his head on the bed holding the patient's hand was not the person they remembered. Frequently they would see him stroking her face …talking to her.

"Didn't he get married?"

"yes and divorced a couple of years later." Someone said

"what was his wife's name?" one doctor said looking at the chart of the patient Fitz was in the room with..

"Olivia I think." someone answered…

"the patient's name is Olivia but her last name is not Grant it's Pope."

"I would guess it's the same woman and it looks like Mr. Playboy has a serious case of regret-itas.

A big OOPS … I bobbed when I should have weaved." One chipped in

The next morning Abby ,who could not sleep for worrying about her friend, stopped by to relieve Fitz she was so impressed watching him sleeping in the chair and holding Olivia's hand almost made her forget what he did to her friend….almost.. She saw Tom sitting in the waiting room and asked him to go get Fitz a change of clothes…she would let him have this time with her. Time he evidentially wanted and wanted badly.

Tom told her he would have some clothes brought over but he was not leaving until his boss left. " Abby he needs to know there is someone in his corner. I know what happened between them was caused by something he did but right now he needs a friend. He is my boss but right now I can also be his friend."

Tom's phone rang…it was Gerry Grant. "Tom this is Gerry Grant….I can't get Fitz on the phone would you tell him to call me please". Tom said he would then went off to see his boss.

When Tom entered Olivia's room Fitz was in the same position he was when he had looked in during the night. Tom also liked Olivia . He had made sure to check on both during the night usually after staff had checked on her.

When he walked up to the bed Fitz raised his head to show he was not sleeping…."you again …there was no need for you to stay all night."

"You knew I was here?" Tom said surprised at Fitz's answer.

"I knew every time you came into the room."

" I wanted to make sure you were ok…you need someone in your corner ….I'm here for you Mr. Grant. I am not sure what happened between you and Mrs. Grant but I know if I hadn't let you talk me into leaving you the night of that party whatever happened would never have happened."

" Tom whatever happened wasn't your fault it was mine."

"Your dad is trying to reach you he wants you to call."

"Yes I turned my phone off …would you stay with Olivia while I call him. I don't want her left alone. If she wakes up and there isn't anyone here she will think no-one cares and Tom she is my ex-wife but I care as much for her today as the day I married her."

Tom shook his head and sat in the chair Fitz had vacated. .

Fitz called his dad who had been updated to Olivia's condition by the hospital….no change . "Dad how is Jeffrey ….does he miss his mother?'"

"He's a baby …he is ok right now. He has been fed, bathed and one of his favorite books read to him."

"Dad he's how old…..does he even know enough to have a favorite book?"

"He does when I read to him…..he understands a lot more than we think… a lot like you did at this age. Your mother will stay with him the rest of the day Mildred has the nightshift. Abby said she was going to relieve you."

"She came by but I told you guys last night I'll be here until Olivia is better."

"Fitz you can't stay all day and all night, you need to sleep."

"It's the least I can do since as my mother said "I don't have any idea how to take care of my son, I can be there for his mother. Would you call Charlotte and tell her I will be off the rest of the week. Nothing pressing is going on."

Gerry was listening to his son…the sadness in his voice was evident. Twelve hours ago he wanted to punch him in the face…now he wished he could reach out and hug him through the phone. The man he was talking to did not sound like a playboy who would so easily break his marriage vows . He remembered the old Fitz …once he met Olivia he changed not because she insisted he changed because he wanted to . Gerry had never questioned what happened he let the photos speak for themselves but now he was beginning to wonder…What happened that night the photos were taken?.

"dad…dad are you there?"

"Sorry Fitz I just had a thought…how did Olivia seem to you during the night?"

"She was in and out of consciousness. She kept saying tell Fitz I'm sorry. Sorry for what….she did not do anything I did. I have made such a mess of my life. I hurt Olivia, I jeopardized the company all our employees and stockholders and my actions took away the early months of my child's life. I lost but so did he….dad how do I get back some of what I lost is it even possible to get it back?"

Gerry was hurting for his son . He had to get to the bottom of what happened. Why did his happy son stray. He would talk to the tech guy he had used for some discreet investigations.

"Fitz lets get Olivia well than we can work on your future with or without Olivia."

"Dad….Olivia is my future… Olivia and Jeffrey …there isn't anyone else. That's why I have to figure out what happened that night. I need to talk to you about it…. Every time I get up the nerve something happens but now I have to follow through….I need to know, to figure out what happened that night."

"Fitz I'm sorry that I said the things to you yesterday…..I was so afraid we would all lose Olivia and she is such a precious person. I'll be there about noon…give you a chance to get some food and change clothes also maybe even bring you son over for a while."

Fitz hung up and returned to Olivia's room. Tom had taken her hand and was talking to her.

"She woke up and kept muttering ,tell Fitz I'm sorry,. I started talking to her to let her know someone was here listening to her. "

Fitz thanked Tom and reclaimed his seat…..he then and brought her hand to his face and kissed it. Tom saw this very personal action and wondered what had gone wrong…..what happened to that love that was so evident and stable between them.. They touched they held hands they kissed. They were never ashamed of any public display of affection..

The doctors came in to check Olivia and talk to him. There hadn't been any positive changes but there hadn't been and negative changes either which was also good.

Fitz as he had said did not take a break…even when the doctors visited he remained there standing off to the side….he refused to leave her.

The day went slowly and seemed to drag…Abby came back to check on her friend. When she saw Fitz was still there wearing the same clothes she knew he still loved her. Therefore his actions baffled her…if he loved her why would he hurt her. Abby decided she would go see Jeffrey and give Alma and Gerry a rest, both were adamant that they were fine.

They decided Abby would give Fitz , not so much a rest, but time to visit with his son. This was the only thing that got him away from the hospital. Alma sat her son in a chair in front of her grandson and watched him feed his son. Jeffrey was at his best…..or maybe worse…..he refused to eat and kept spitting his food out but Alma refused to interfere. She returned to the room to see her son playing a game with his son as a way to get him to eat. It was a heat warming moment…he knew they were going to be ok…. was bonding with his father.

Fitz returned to the hospital and took his place in the chair next to Olivia's bed holding her hand as he read a book Gerry said was a favorite of their son . To his surprise Fitz discovered the books author was Carolyn Pope. There was a collection of about thirty books the last ones dedicated to JTP. Each book told him a little more about the marvelous woman he married the awesome woman that is his son's mother.

The hospital staff came in regularly checking Olivia….the medication seemed to be working but she had only regained consciousness for a short time.

About 2am on the fifth night he felt her hand close around his and a soft voice ask for water. At first Fitz thought this was one of her frequent short moments of consciousness but she said water again and opened her eyes. Fitz immediately called for a nurse and placed a call to his mother then moved back from her bed as she became more conscious and opened her eyes..

Within thirty minutes his parents and Abby were there. Mildred kept a sleeping Jeffrey in the waiting room. Fitz faded into the background finally leaving the hospital with Tom after the IV and oxygen were removed.

During the drive to his house he and Tom talked about the past four days. "Sir why are you leaving…don't you want to be there…let her know you have been there for there the past four days except during the time you spent with the baby."

"No Tom…. I am not sure if she would want me there. We haven't seen each other in nearly a year and she wasn't planning to see me. I don't think I would be a welcome person in her hospital room. I hurt her Tom."

"Yes but you were there for her and the baby when it was needed I think she would give you some credit."

"Its ok Tom…she is better . She should be home in a couple of days. Now that I know about the baby we will have to figure out how to co-exist as divorced parents of a young child."

"Do you want her in your life again as more than the mother of your child sir?"

"Tom that's something I can't even hope for all I can hope for is to someway become a part in my son's life."

"If given the chance…..would you take her back?"

"In a heart beat , like last week…but it's not my choice it's Olivia's. She hates me so much she did not want me to know I had a son…why would she ever want me back as her husband. No Tom it's not up to me it's up to her and I have as much of a chance as the proverbial snowball in hell. Maybe I should take my mom's advice and go ahead with my life."

When he got home he checked his messages and saw he had a page of messages from Mellie…. He decided he would return her call tomorrow…..…tonight he just wanted to take a shower in his own shower, sleep in his own bed . It also gave him a chance to think about the last four days... Why would Olivia beg for his forgiveness…...Abby was able to be civil….He received a talk from his father that he needed and Tom….Tom was there for him when he was at his lowest and tonight he gave him something to think about.

The next day he returned Mellie's call…she reminded him he had promised her some quality time and could they plan something later in the month. That was not what he wanted not now….he told her he would get back to her…..he never told her about his son …..he had to stop punishing himself and get along with his life . He wanted Olivia but he had to accept maybe that would never be but they could be kind of parents their child deserved..

He decided not to visit the hospital…finding out from his parents , and Tom that Olivia was better and would be at home soon. He…..would take on the job as father while his parents helped Olivia so he moved into the apartment across from her. This was temporary but he could spend time with his son and not uproot him from his home. They bonded easily….his parents and Abby were amazed. Once he talked to Olivia he hoped he could convince her to let him live next door. He wasn't sure how this would fit into his life if another woman, or man, entered the picture but he decided first things first…Olivia allowing him to be a daily important part of his son's life. Deep down he hoped he would one day be able to make a life with Olivia but Jeffrey in his life convinced him he wanted more children. He imagined a life with a woman he loved and a house full of children ...that he really wanted with Olivia

Five days after she woke up Olivia was ready to go home but someone had to stay with her.. She has a couple of conditions for going home someone had to stay with her and she had to have help with the baby ... ... the fake cast that she had on her left arm seven months ago was real. She had a sprain a real one. She would wear the cast for a month then maybe change it to a wrap. The cast would make it impossible to pick the baby up...her weakened condition also made it impossible pick him up or carry him... Olivia needed as much care as her son..

As she was waiting to find out when she would be released from the hospital Olivia finally asked Abby a question she dreaded to hear the answer…".did Fitz find out about Jeffrey?"

Abby nodded in the affirmative…"yes he did . He was at your parents house when I called them when I could not get into the house. He went to the hospital with us."

"Did he meet Jeff….how do they get along?"

"Yes he met Jeff and they get along well. It's as though Jeffrey knows Fitz is his father."

"That's not a good sign for me…..rich father who in a short time has bonded with a son he never knew…..Abby I am doomed."

"Olivia….maybe not….The Fitz we saw during the divorce is not the same Fitz I have seen the last week."

"Do you think he will try to take him since it seems I am not a fit mother. What mother would get sick because she refused to take her medicine…. did not eat enough. That alone should make it easier for him to take him. Abby I am a total failure."

"Olivia you are not a failure. Being a first time mother isn't easy. It wasn't your lack of eating you had a cold that turned into a severe respiratory infection then pneumonia . . Not eating just made it more serious.."

"I'll stay with you at night until you are better….Mildred will stay during the day. "

"Abby I can't do that…Fitz will use that as an excuse to take him. He will probably wait until I am better to take him ... then say I am an unfit parent…..He will convince the judge he is a better parent."

"Olivia stop worrying…..You only need help for a short time you should be back on your feet in short order. But then there is the cast on your left arm. Remember when we faked it?"

The two laughed "'Karma is a bitch. The one good thing I only have to wear it for a month...I hope". The two old friends sat quietly ...each considering a different solution to the same problem.

"Do you think I should discuss Jeff with Fitz or wait for the court order to turn the baby over to him?"

"I don't know Olivia …what do you think?"
"I think Fitz will use any weakness to his advantage."

"Maybe not …... talk to him maybe you two can come to an agreement."

"Abby has something happened to make you feel different about Fitz…what makes you think he will be reasonable."

"Maybe…being a dad may have made him a different person."

" How much time is he spending with Jeff...where are they staying...…has Fitz moved him to his penthouse?"

"No Olivia…..Fitz is staying at your apartment with him ."

"Staying at my apartment?" ..."Why….?"

"He thought it was easier to go to Jeff's than to move Jeff to him…it works."

"Sure it will work so well I'll be left in an empty apartment fighting for my son."

"Olivia you may be wrong about Fitz."

"Abby I was wrong once I will not make the same mistake of trusting Fitz…never again."

The next day Alma and Gerry picked Olivia up …waiting at the apartment was Abby and unknown to Olivia…Fitz ….who remained in his apartment until Olivia was settled." Arriving home Olivia was helped into the apartment and into a recliner that had been added to the room.

They settled Olivia in the recliner with her son... then came a knock on her door. Alma came in to tell her Fitz was there to see her…he wanted to talk.

"Alma I don't feel like arguing with Fitz ….tell him I will wait for the court papers from his attorney."

"Olivia just listen…you can end the talk at any time."

"Alma whose side are you on….you know what Fitz did."

"Olivia I'm on my grandson's JayT's side …I want the best for him."

"Ok...…tell Fitz to come in but leave the door open...please take the baby."

Olivia bristled when Fitz walked into the room…". why are you just a here…what do you want?"

"I'm here to talk to you about our son."

"Nothing to talk about…..I'll wait to receive the paperwork to hand my son over to you."

" Olivia listen to yourself…he's not your son he's our son…..I am not going to take him….would you listen to what I have to say."

"Just say what you are going to say Fitz." Olivia was almost screaming…

Alma came to the door but Fitz motioned her back

"You can't stay alone until the doctor releases you which may be over a month from now… You have a cast on your arm, which I assume this time is real…. you need help….I will move into the apartment next door and take care of you and Jeff."

" The cast...you had to get a dig in...Fitz that will never work."

"Why not….I'll take a leave move in next door and take care of both of you."

"Then what…..file for solo custody after you document I am an unfit mother?"

" Lets get you well first then we can decide and decide together."

"Decide together….Fitz I don't trust you . At the end of a month you will probably give me a bill for helping me."

"Olivia I promise I will not try to take our son from you ."

"What have to done that would make me trust you. You will work until I lower my guard then next thing I know Jeff is living with you."

"Mom , dad ,Abby will you all come in please."

The three came into the bedroom waiting to see what was next.

"With you here I promise to stay with my son and his mother until she is better and can care for him…I will not try to take him…I promise her and I make this commitment here in front of you. We don't need to sign any papers…..its a promise I am making to my child."

"Fitz I don't believe you and I don't trust you…..You will not honor any commitment you make to me and I know that. You have proven what your commitments to me mean…..absolutely nothing."

Gerry spoke up….".Olivia give him a chance….if he is lying I will work to make sure you do not lose your child. If he is trying to trick you by using us I will fire him…he will no longer be the head of the publishing division."

"Dad…" Fitz turned to look at Gerry Grant.

"I mean it….you have hurt Olivia I refuse to let you do it again. She has worked really hard to make it….to be a single mother. She could have really hurt our company and you but she chose not to . If you make the promise to work with her regarding your child I expect you to honor it."

"Gerry….I don't feel like arguing with Fitz….but if you think you can make Fitz honor his promise to help….I'm willing mainly because I don't have a choice.. can we call it a night I am tired. Abby are you staying tonight? "

Abby shook her head saying yes.

"Look if we are going to do this lets do it….no crutches, no one to lean on . If we are going to solve the problem as unmarried parents…we need to figure it out how to do it. We need to do it.. Abby, mom ,dad you have shouldered my responsibilities long enough…now it's on me. I will not let Olivia down because I will not let my son down. My dad is my perfect example of who and what I should strive to be as a dad."

Gerry thought this is the son I remember before the photos...…I have to find out what happened to him …what made him throw all his values away for a romp in the night with a woman he does not remember.

They all left leaving a skeptical Olivia ...and Fitz determined to do what he could do... to be there for his son.

" I'm going to check on Jeff and make you a snack. . Dr. Ware suggested small meals rather than three meals a day…any special request or should I choose. While you eat I will get Jeff ready for bed."

" Ready for bed?" "Yes Olivia I am able to give my son his bath...feed him then read him a story before he goes to sleep...all without help from my parents, Mildred of Abby." "Fitz I can make my own snack… I am sure the frig is stocked...you just take care of Jeff."

"Olivia this is your first night home…humor me… I'll be right back ."

He bought her a small bowl of soup with toast and a selection of fruits and vegetables. She could hear Fitz talking to Jeff as he gave him his bath . Soon a freshly bathed baby came in to say goodnight . "Ill pick the tray up once he goes to sleep…say goodnight to mommy Jeff…. We are going to enjoy our favorite story. Olivia I have been sleeping in this room because it's next door to the baby's room. May I stay in the apartment and sleep in the spare bedroom…..until you are able to get around better. You should not be carrying him or picking him up a while. I'll set the monitor . You have trained him well …he usually sleeps all night but he is an early riser."

"What about work Fitz?"

"I'm taking a leave until you are better. I'll finish this week but only work a half day. . Mom will be here tomorrow. Mildred will help. Dad is taking over my responsibility at work so he is off grandpa duties. I'll take as much time as necessary from work "

Olivia could not believe this person who was talking to her….this is the Fitz she remembered…..kind and considerate. But she knew he could turn on a dime as he had shown.. She would work to get better then one day, without any warning... just pick up and leave…she still had to save her son from his father. No matter how gracious he seemed he could not be trusted….she could not trust him she would never trust him again no matter what her promised his mother and father.

Alma, Gerry and Abby let the two alone, as Fitz asked hoping for the best.

The beginning of this "cohabitation" went badly. Fitz did not know how to prioritize his time. Before Olivia came home he got up when the baby did…gave him his bath , breakfast and spent some time playing with him. Then lunch and a nap where Fitz did whatever chores needed before Jeffrey was ready for his dinner . Then playtime , a book, a bottle then bed.

With Olivia added to the mix Fitz wasn't sure if he should get her up first then Jeffrey, who was used to being on a schedule or Olivia was fighting him at every turn. She needed help in the bath but she refused to let him help her. He hair needed washing but again she refused his help. Olivia was frustrated because she knew she needed help but there was no way in hell she was going to pull off all her clothes around him. By the time Alma and Gerry dropped by several days later one could cut the tension in the air and Jeffrey was fretting and crying.

Alma took Jeffrey who had been this happy smiling child since birth and nestled him on her shoulder …..he kept fretting. "what's wrong with you Jeff …you are dry ...do you want a bottle... what's wrong?" She gave both Fitz and Olivia a look of disappointment .

"'Come on little guy lets go into the nursery." Alma said but not before giving Gerry a look that said talk to these two.

Fitz was cleaning up the already clean kitchen…Olivia was standing by the window …seeing there was a problem…an adult problem Gerry directed then both to sit down.

They sat... Fitz on the sofa Olivia in a chair across the room.

"Olivia sit on the sofa." Gerry told her…she reluctantly moved to the sofa but made sure she was sitting on the opposite end.

""This has got to stop…Olivia I told you I would make sure Fitz did not take the baby from. You are freezing Fitz out and Jeffrey is reacting to how his parents are acting. In less than a week after you two agreed to make a home for your son putting you two together has changed a happy baby into a crying fretting unhappy baby. This has to stop , today. "

He turned to Olivia….".I know it's hard to forgive what Fitz did. I have assured you that you will not lose your child. You have to work with him because you need him, or someone , here with you. He's the perfect solution . We could get someone to stay with you, and the baby ,but Fitz has agreed to do that. He is the child's father and no matter how angry you are at him he is the perfect person to be here for you and your son."

Olivia sighed " Gerry as much as I am trying I can't forgive him... I just can't be civil to Fitz."

Gerry reached across and took her hand…"I don't …and I am sure Fitz should not expect you to forgive him in a week but you have to find a way to create a friendlier atmosphere for your child. He is picking up on your hatred for Fitz and Fitz' anger because you are angry at him."

Um..um Olivia muttered

Gerry turned to Fitz…." You mister caused this all but you are trying…I think... I hope it's not to pull the wool over our eyes and make an end around to take the baby."

"Dad"

Gerry turned angrily toward Fitz…"dad nothing this is all on you so you better find a way to co-exist.. I know you are trying…maybe too hard...tell me what kind of schedule do you guys have now?"

Fitz went through his daily schedule.

"You are tired from being the total caregiver to a crabby baby and to someone who seems ungrateful. Fitz there is nothing in your life that has prepared you for this."

Fitz sank back into the sofa.

"Fitz… Olivia is not helpless the baby is…..take care of his needs first. His bath and breakfast. He will be fine to sit in his high chair after he eats while you make breakfast for you and Olivia. Then let him have some time with his mother while you clean up the breakfast mess…that way you can have a break between breakfast and lunch …let Olivia take that playtime. Same thing at night…he likes to have a book read to him... ..maybe he just likes being held before he goes to sleep. Get him settled then help Olivia get settled for the night."

Turning back to Olivia

"It hurts me so much to see you two like this but I'm mad that you have allowed your adult feeling to affect your child. If this continues I will make some decisions that I don't think either of you will happy about."

Alma returned to the room "How is he Gerry asked?"

"He is fine... one book, one smiling face, one soothing voice and he was out."

The two got their things to go…. Gerry turned to Olivia and Fitz still sitting on the sofa…."we will see you two next week."

On the elevator Alma asked.." I heard your ultimatum what are you planning to do if they can't make this work?"

"Alma... I don't have the slightest idea."

After Alma and Gerry left the two sat for a while until Olivia finally said "I am not sure what your father has in mind and I don't want to find out….lets make a schedule so it doesn't look like you are taking all the responsibilities for me and the baby. I'll put on a t-shirt when I'm in the bath…ok. That way I won't feel self conscious."

"Why would you feel self-conscious around me Olivia?"

"Look Fitz... I am just trying to meet you half way."

Fitz shook his head in agreement then they both started to discuss how they could co-exist . When Gerry and Alma stopped by the following week the temperature in the apartment was normal... both saw a more relaxed baby.

They followed the same schedule the next three weeks. Olivia getting strong enough to take care of herself and help more with Jeff so Fitz started sleeping in the apartment next door giving Olivia some privacy. They never talked about their failed marriage…..

The day would start breakfast and a bath for the baby then breakfast for Olivia….usually tea with some type of pastry and an egg or oatmeal ... He had learned to feed both mother and son at the same time at lunch. Olivia's lunch would consist of a fruit and vegetable tray with some type of sandwich or soup. He had hired a chef, Joan, to make dinner meals three times a week . Jon suggested he include a late night snack and midday meal in his preparations. This with take outs and surprise brown bags brought by his parents and Abby... Fitz did not have to do a lot of meal planning. Olivia knowing what was at stake ate her food... no longer pushing it around the plate.

They would have dinner together complete with a place settings, flowers and a Jeffrey Pope watching from his high chair. His parents would spread cheerios on his plate so he could feel like he was part of the meal. Fitz would spend time with Jeff until it was time for bed. Afterwards would make sure Olivia had her bath and evening snack then he would go to the apartment next door but would always leave his door open. He decided to put off returning to work until Olivia was completely well and they had a chance to really talk. He wanted Olivia to be both mentally and physically able before they decided to make a decision about their child.

A month ago at the hospital …once he had some of the details of Jeffrey an angry Fitz called his attorney, partially to see what his rights were and partially to set up a trust fund for Jeffrey. The two were getting along so well now Fitz forgot about the call until Andrew called and reminded him. He knew he would have to go in and sign the papers .He also needed to clear up some nagging questions about his rights as a father. Knowing he would only be gone a couple of hours he asked Tom to stay with Olivia.

Fitz told Tom where he was going. After that night he wanted someone to know where he was…. just in case.

"Are you driving yourself sir?" Tom asked

"Nope I'll take a cab."

"What excuse are you giving for being away."

"I'm telling a partial truth…it's to set up a trust fund for the baby." Fitz replied

Under those circumstances Fitz left for his appointment and left Tom with Olivia never considering what this small action would lead to.

A contract that takes all the writers earnings if the writer leaves with five years.

Sounds like fiction BUT I read (doesn't mean its true) that Sinclair Broadcasting signs its new , young right out of college ,on-air announcers to a like contract. They are prevented from leaving within five years and must read whatever is placed in front of them. If they leave they must pay back all the money they have earned, plus interest.

This may not be true…but I based Fitz taking all of Olivia's earnings on the possibility that a smart lawyer could write such a contract and convincing a young writer ….., right out of college , getting that break to be published….to take it. This is the microwave generation...in the haste to achieve fame and fortune too many take shortcuts...in every field.

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