Hello Sugar Beans…

Well look-see here, a new chapter for this tale. I hope this is unexpected and a nice surprise. I wanted to move this story alone because we all want Olitz to find some peace and get their shit together.

This chapter contains two flashback moments for you all. I hope it's just what you need. Please leave me some #Breadcrumbs so I can follow you home. I'll be looking forward to your thoughts.

Thank you for reading…

Me's

/

Chapter 18: She Flies with Her Own Wings…

"I hate the thought of her being forced into a box that doesn't fit her. Of having her wings cut off, her sight blinded, her hearing muted, her voice stilled." – Charles de Lint.

12 Days Later…

2 Days before Vow Renewal…

The last week and a half have been a bit of a tornado for Doc Pope. Fitz had been there to help plan their vow renewal at first, but his duties as President kept him. He rearranged his schedule, but was needed for briefings and matters of State.

After their moment in the swing in the Rose Garden, Fitz became attentive. As promised, he stayed with her, until she fell asleep each night. After the heated argument with Keating she tossed and turned most of the night once he left.

A week later, in the wee hours of one morning, a tea-kettle of chamomile tea was on her night stand. She sat up seeing Fitz on the sofa. His feet pointed towards her turned into the overly large couch. He wasn't sleeping. His breathing gave it away.

She tip-toed to his bedside, with a cup of tea. He did not move dare move fearing she'd drop the hot tea on him. "I won't hit yah Fly Boy," she teased placing covered cup by his head. He smirks. She called him that during their first day. It's not lost on either. "It appears we both need this."

She places her hand on his head lacing her fingers in his curls. His hair peeks between her open fingers. "Thank you Fitz." She slithers into her bed, he sighs deeply. Somethings never change. He loved her hands in his hair, rubbing and massaging his scalp. She drinks her tea, then passes out.

Fitz sits up peering over to Olivia. Rogue's head wedged between Olivia's neck and shoulder. A peaceful smile grows on his face. She still manages to capture his breath. He kneels on the floor beside her.

Shakily his hand rests on top of hers covering it fully. His head rests on sheets less than a foot from her face. Using his free hand, he plants it behind her head. He couldn't leave her.

She senses Fitz's presence. Her fingers tighten their grip before bringing his hand into her chest. Fitz gasps. Her face nuzzles his hand as she sleeps. He struggles to keep himself from crawling behind her. He always left when she was out, but tonight he can't bring himself to leave her.

Shallow, erratic breaths leave her lungs. She's dreaming.

"I'm here," he coos leaning his head closer. "You're not alone." Fitz's soothing tone calms her. He remains by her bedside. Only when her breathing changes, does he tip-toe to the couch, falling asleep himself.

The following morning, Fitz was in her room the entire night. He made no attempts to hide and wanted her to know he did not leave. She spots his t-shirt, sleep pants folded neatly with his blanket and pillow on the couch.

Throughout the next week, leading up the vow renewal Olivia spoke constantly with Miss Pearl, Abby-Lynn and other close friends in Alabama. She heard from Fitz, his parents were arriving the day before her parents. She was terrified to see his father and mother again.

It had been so long. Would they hate her? Welcome her with open arms? She was extremely nervous. His parents were fiercely protective of their son and had not changed since he became President.

Cyrus blurts out at breakfast, "Your parents should be landing on the south lawn within sixty minutes."

"What," Olivia gulps staring at Fitz and Cyrus.

"Cyrus," Fitz hisses handing him the morning briefing paperwork. It's Olivia's first meal outside of her room. He finally encouraged her to leave and his Chief of Staff spills the beans.

"I thought you told her Mr. President," Cyrus smirks.

"I reckon not," Olivia snips pushing her plate away. "I thought they weren't landing until after lunch because of your busy morning."

"They hoped on a red-eye from Santa Barbara on the private family jet." Her eyes widen. She had no idea his parents had their own jet.

"But how can they land on the South Lawn," Olivia questions twisting her napkin. "You're only supposed to land there. What aren't you telling me?" Cyrus begins to leave the room. "Oh no old timer," she hisses up out of her seat blocking his path. "Your can is staying put in case I need target practice."

Fitz sighs. "Marine One is picking up my parents at the airport and bringing them here."

"And," she presses tapping her foot. "Your Daddy ain't President so how is this happening."

Fitz bites his lip to stop himself from smiling. "Well having your only son as President has its perks. The military at Andrews cleared it."

"Ah huh," she exhales.

"I hear the pilot has a soft spot for the First Lady and didn't want her getting air sick on the big green fried pickle again," Cyrus utters earning a glare from Fitz. His nostrils flare hearing Cyrus explain another man fancy's his wife.

"Stop yah bugging," Olivia clips tossing her napkin at Fitz. He grips the chair.

"So in other words Doc you need to get gussied up because you have to go out there and meet the Senator and Mrs. Grant when they land," Cyrus explains with a gleam in his eyes. "The Press Core is expecting you to finally make an appearance. Since they haven't seen you since your arrival." He glares at Fitz.

"Is that so Mr. Beene," Olivia whips facing him.

Fitz eyes raise. He stands up from the table.

"Would you like to get snipped Mr. Beene," Doc challenges walking closer to Cyrus.

"Snipped," Cyrus counter. "I am not a dog."

"I beg to differ," she hisses looking him over. In her opinion the leash this vile man should be on should have a choker collar. This man has been harassing her, speaking snarky remarks under his breath he thinks she cannot hear. She has excellent hearing, and can read lips.

"If The President needs to leash you to drag you outside then so be it Doc," Cyrus blurts unashamed. Before Fitz can react, she's too Cyrus with a two knives in her hand.

"HEY," he bellow as she pushes the knives just below his waist into his pants. The knives cut a hole. "OUCH. THIS HURTS."

Fitz steps to separate her from Cyrus. She is beyond DONE. One look from Olivia he relents. "Mr. President pull her off me before I call the agents." Cyrus is never afraid so this is surprising. Beads of sweat form on his brow.

"Mr. Beene," she pushes the tip of the knives into him. His throat constricts. "If you ever suggest that Fitz leash me up like some dog again, I'll personally castrate you and turn you into a woman." The agents enter the Dining Room hearing the commotion. Fitz blocks their path. "I can take those agents and you without blinking an eye. I am beyond done with your stupid ass. Are we clear?"

"MR. PRESIDENT," Cyrus winces looking to Fitz for help. "PULL HER BACK." He's losing his composure.

"Liv, before you do hurt him and end up in jail," Fitz pleads softly. "Please." She relents. The knives are tossed onto the table. Olivia lunges forward. Cyrus nearly climbs up the wall. She smirks deviously before scurrying out of the room.

Cyrus glares at Fitz. "That's how you defend your Chief of Staff. You best real her in Sir. A First Lady does not behave this way."

Fitz walks into Cyrus' personal space. "Cyrus Olivia is no ordinary First Lady. This is who she's always been. She was thrown into this. She did not ask to be in this fish bowl with me. For the last twelve days she's barely left her room. She's only been in the main Residence a few times. The staff is concerned. Stacey Keating visits her and her husband has us planning a quickie wedding something neither one of us are ready for. She's not sleeping, barely eating. I'm telling you now to back off."

Cyrus holds his ground. He's never seen Fitz THIS protective. His boss is ready to put him through the nearest window.

"Sir she is the First Lady of the United States. This is what the country and party expects," Cyrus counters checking his pants. He'll have to change. Fitz is going to have to prepare her. Change her to fit the image a First Lady is expected to have.

"She's only been the first lady technically for nearly two weeks since she got back." Cyrus scoffs. "Cut her some slack. If you all keeping pushing her she'll reach a breaking point. If she loses her shit it will be the worst storm you've ever seen."

"She's lucky she has a supportive husband to help then," Cyrus spits. "Make sure she's with you when Marine One lands. Your parents are expecting her, along with the Country," he readily smiles. He's had enough of her hiding out.

In a huff, Cyrus leaves the room. Fitz releases calming breaths before heading towards Olivia's room. He taps lightly before entering. He finds her on the couch with Rogue. His puppy has grown. She wags her tail seeing Fitz.

/

The Grants...

"Hi Sweet girl," he coos sitting on the coffee table in front of them. Rogue whimpers staring at Olivia. "You don't have to come out there with me. My parents will understand."

She exhales.

"I have no choice," she sighs unable to meet his gaze. Her hand wipes her tears. "It's expected after all."

He sits beside her. "Olivia….," he aches to hold her – to do anything to ease her reservations. "They will see you when you're ready."

She closes her eyes. "Do they even want to," she pauses. "See me I mean?" Fitz leans forward. A stray tear leaves her eye. "Your Momma probably hates me."

"My Dad or Mom do not hate you. Is that what you think," he questions. She clears another tear before it falls. His heart breaks. More tears escape. "My mother still adores you. My father still thinks of you as the daughter he never had. They wanted to beat my sorry ass for not fighting for you all those years ago."

She's quite. It all wasn't his fault.

"My parents sent me a video of them literally doing a happy dance when they found out we were still married and Keating refused to sign off on the divorce?" Her mouth falls open meeting his eyes.

"You are so full of horse shit," she utters.

"I am not," he chastises. He reaches for his phone. He opens the video of them dancing when they heard the news. She hears them chanting "Yes. Yes. Yes. Our son is still married to Olivia. Our prayers have been answered."

She watches the entire quick video then stares at Fitz. "I thought after all these years they hated me because I broke your wee heart."

"We broke each other. Me they definitely disliked. You…Gosh almighty no," he quips doing his best not to chuckle.

"Are you telling me stories Buckwheat?" Fitz eyes her. "Cuz if you are I'll slip a snake in your bed tonight."

"You wouldn't," his hand covers his heart. There's no way she can sneak a snake into the White House.

"Try me," she bops his nose with her finger. Her breath catches noting his gaze changing. On and off they've caught themselves flirting with one another. She tests him. He pushes back. "I…,"

"My mother cannot wait to see you. Didn't you know our Moms still talk, have been since we separated?" Her eyes widen. "It started as random thing. Then every month. For the last couple of years, they chat every other Sunday night."

"WHAT?" She stops nearly leaping off the couch. "That's who Momma was chatting it up with on Sunday nights." Fitz squints. "She'd still have the family over for dinner but would kick us all out by 7 pm to watch her program. The one time I went back in to give her something, I caught her on the phone with someone. She nearly dropped kick me out of the room."

Fitz leans back.

"How'd you find out," Olivia questions Fitz.

"When I was home visiting her, I saw your Mother's name calling on her phone. I never said anything but she caught me looking. I found out everything after I became President," he explains.

"So I'm in not in the dog house," Olivia questions looking into Fitz's eyes.

"No I am," he winces. Before they arrived he came clean about what transpired with Melanie. His mother was furious threatening whoop his ass in front of the press. He'd never seen her so upset. Lillian Grant warned him if he messed this second chance of a lifetime up, she disown him.

"So let's just say if you're there and I'm not, they'd be thrilled," he quips staring into her ears. A soft smile forms on his lips. "About Cyrus…,"

"That old blow whole bastard deserved it," she snips. He chuckles.

"You ruined his pants," Fitz informs her.

"He's lucky I didn't neuter him on your Dining Room table," Olivia clips. "He's gay. He don't need his balls anyway. They're just for decoration." He flippant remarks sends Fitz into a fit of laughter. He holds his stomach. "What you know I'm right," which makes her laugh.

"I miss hearing you laugh," she admits before she stops herself.

Fitz faces her. "I miss hearing yours too." He scoots closer. He opens his hand for her to place her hand into his. She stares at him before laying her hand into his. He squeezes her hand. His thumb caresses the top of her hand. "Don't yell at me today all right?"

"Well don't give me a reason too," she utters looking at their joined hands. "I can do this right."

"Without a doubt," he exhales squeezing her hand tighter.

She glances at the time. "I guess I need to change."

"Only if you want to," he assures her. He drops her hand to change. She meets him in the entryway between both their rooms. "Wow," he utters seeing her in a pair of black dress pants, short sleeve pink blouse. She's in flats.

"I ain't wearing heels to walk out in grass," she warns. He chuckles leading her out to the South Lawn to wait for Marine One on its final approach. Once the helicopter touched down and the rooters stopped, the agents opened the doors inside the White House for Fitz to step out with Olivia. She's shaking.

"I got you," he leans over.

"You damn well better. If I fall on my ass in front of all those pit vipers, I'll let my Daddy have you when he gets here," she hisses before they step outside.

"Yes Ma'am," he smirks leading her outside. The sound of the clicking of the cameras and reporters sends her heart racing. Fitz's pace slows not wanting her to fall.

"They are staring at us," she whispers to Fitz as they meander leisurely to the chopper.

"No they are staring at you," he mutters leaning his head near hers. She eyes him. "I don't blame them. It's a great view and you happen to be the prettiest girl in town."

"Focus," she clips nervously using her opposite foot to whack his leg. The clicking increases catching their moment.

"I am," Fitz proudly escorts her to Marine One.

/

The In-Laws…

"Now Lilly calm yourself," Jerry warns waiting for the steps to be lowered on Marine One.

"I will do no such thing Gerald," Lillian hisses at her husband. "You know how long I've been waiting for THEM to get their shit together." She forces his face to the window observing her son, The President of the United States, and his only love Olivia Grant walk towards them.

"Lilly," he sighs observing Fitz escort Olivia. "They haven't gotten anything together. The judge forced them into this arrangement."

"Well I owe Patrick Keating," Lillian smirks still gawking out the window.

"Lilly," he beseeches.

"Don't you Lilly me you stupid ox," she whacks his arm. "Look at how GOOD they look together. After all this time, they are still in sync. Tell me you don't see it." She hisses pointing towards the couple. Jerry is quiet. "For the love of God, look at how our SON is staring at her."

"He's just making sure she doesn't trip Lil," Jerry chastises then chuckles when Olivia hits Fitz with her foot as they walk.

"That is not what he's watching and you know it," she hits him on the back of his head.

"LILLY," he winces. "That hurt."

"Good," she smirks. "Our son is an ass man like you."

Jerry laughs. They wait inside Marine One until the steps are lowered. Jerry escorts his wife to the door where his son and Olivia wait patiently.

"Stop yah fussing," Olivia snips at Fitz. He straightens his tie. She whacks his hand away. "Leave it be." He smirks as she flattens the fabric down his chest and readjusts the knot at the top. "I don't want your Daddy yelling at me."

"I'd wouldn't dream of it Olivia," Jerry coos walking down the stairs. Olivia freezes facing her father in law. Jerry walks to her opening his arms for a hug while Fitz helps his mother down the stairs. She tentatively steps into Jerry's arms. "You look exactly the same. Maybe even younger."

"Thank you," Olivia bashfully responds. "It all that good Southern Sweet tea and living."

"Jerry let her go," Lilian hisses. "Let me hug my long lost daughter in law." Olivia stands there next to Jerry. "Come on dear." Olivia remains at Jerry's side. Lillian eyes Fitz. Not willing to wait, she waltzes up to her bringing Olivia into her arms. "I never hated you Doc. My son was an idiot."

Lillian holds Olivia's face. She smiles. "Still is apparently."

"Mom," Fitz sighs.

Lillian examines his hand. "You were saying." Olivia chuckles.

With Fitz and Jerry behind them, Lillian walks with Olivia leading the way inside. Lillian wraps her arm around Olivia walking past the press into the White House. She talk quietly among themselves on their way to the Residence. Lillian is genuinely curious of Olivia's thoughts on her new life, DC, and her practice she left behind.

Once in the main living room, Lillian and Jerry pester the couple for information on their vow renewal. Olivia brings over her tablet, sitting in front of Fitz's parents. "This is what we came up with so far."

Lillian scowls at Fitz and Olivia displeased. "You two have been working on this for how long," she inquires.

"Since I came back Mrs. Grant," Olivia responds quickly. "Whenever we had the time and Fitz was free. He is running the country."

Lillian glares at her son. "I told you THIS was more important." Fitz rubs his temples leaning on the wall. He's silent not willing to get into a fight with his mother. Big Jerry shakes his head staring at his son.

"Thank God your mother arrives tomorrow," she deadpans clicking a few buttons sending the file to herself. Within seconds she's on the phone with Pearl. "Yes I just saw it. You had no idea there was this much work left. Me either. They are definitely in need of all the help they can get." Lillian is quiet. "Good you're arriving earlier. See you then."

Lillian ends the call staring at Fitz and Olivia.

"Your dear Momma and Father will be here by breakfast tomorrow morning." Olivia face drops. By the time her Momma arrives, she'll be madder than a bull alligator caught by a hunter. Fitz sits down. "Be thankful I don't send the…," Lillian stops talking. She glances at Big Jerry. "Jerry…,"

"I'll call the pilot now Lil," Jerry utters glaring at his son and Olivia.

"Dad?" Fitz stands walking to his father his eyes questioning him. Jerry ushers him off to the side, away from Olivia and Lillian. "Our plane will be taking off in thirty minutes to retrieve Olivia's parents. They'll be here by nightfall, maybe even dinner. You two should have been on top of this."

Fitz hisses. "We did Dad. Olivia and I did not want to make a big deal out of this. This is not what we want. We are being forced."

Jerry steps into his son's personal space. "Well you are The President and she," he points to Olivia, "is your First Lady. Both your Mother and Miss Pearl have been waiting for this."

"For what," Fitz scoffs.

"You and Doc to get your shit together and realize you are IT for each other. She is the love of your life and you are hers. Why do you think you never committed to another woman? You never moved on. This is your chance to make it up to her. And so help me if you screw this up, I'll personally disown you," Jerry warns.

Fitz rubs his temples. It is too early for this.

He glances at Olivia. His mother is trying to talk to her. Assure her it will be okay. Their small vow renewal will be perfect. Everyone will love it and her. Fitz knows without Olivia even having to say a word, she's tuned his mother out.

She's folded her legs into herself. Her head buried into her knees shielding herself from his mother's gaze. "Olivia," Lillian coos inching closer. Before she can touch her, Olivia bolts from the couch, leaving the room like her hair is on fire.

"Olivia," Fitz calls out as the door slams behind her.

This is not how this is supposed to go. He hoped she reconnect with his parents. When his parents visited them, they spent more time with her than him. His Mother and Father both never forgave him for not fighting for her and their marriage.

He rushes to his mother. "What the hell did you say to her?" Lillian rises from the couch so fast Fitz doesn't have the chance to blink. "WHAT THE HELL MOM. I TOLD YOU NOT TO PUSH…" he yells. Her hand grabs his shirt. She's yanked him down to eye level. Jerry leans his head on the wall.

"DO NOT EVER TAKE THAT TONE WITH ME," Lillian snaps in a menacing tone. "President or not you will not raise your voice to me. I am your Mother Fitzgerald. I brought your ass into this world, and will take you out." She shoves him away, plopping down into the couch.

She sits in front of him on the coffee table. Fitz stares at her in no mood. He crosses his arms over his chest.

"I only ask her opinion on the ceremony. Ask questions about her dress." Lillian explains. "She told me nothing. I'd never do anything to upset her Fitz. You know that." She squeezes his knee.

"Mom I apologize…," he stutters. "It's just…she's so stressed. She's barely eating. Sleeping. She paces in her room at night if I'm not close by. I'm trying to be there, walk her through it all. This is all my fault."

"It is not. You did not know your divorce never went through. Olivia knows that. I only gave her ideas for your renewal. What you both could do instead. Olivia is still is a Grant and your wife Fitz. You can't just do simple and be done with it," Lillian explains softly.

"Can you please take a step back until I talk to her? If she'll talk to me that is," Fitz sighs. Lillian agrees. He kisses his mother.

"Fitz," Lillian calls to him before he steps out of the room. She stands before him holding his hands. "You may not see it. Hell I know she doesn't but it's not just her that needs you. It's both ways. Since you went to her, I've seen the change in you."

Fitz sighs.

"Fine don't believe me but you are definitely different. Your wife," she stares hard into his eyes, "lit that fire, passion you've been missing. She needs you more than anything else in this World. Olivia may not admit it but she does. She's lost and without you, she won't survive. You either."

Fitz gulps.

"Mom I don't want her to lose herself. Change into someone she's not. I feel like I'm clipping her wings, sticking her in a box, no cage and she'll never fly again. This," he glances around him. "It's not her."

"Oh yes it is. If you two had stayed together, you'd still be here," she squeezes him. "She would have grown into this role in your life. Not thrown into it. It's your job now to hold her up, keep her safe, and catch her if or when she falls. Got it."

His mother is right.

"Mom, she has to let me in first. I barely have a toe in at times. Liv has to see I'm….,"

"Still the man she fell in love with all those years ago," Lillian holding her son's cheeks. "You are HIM Fitz. Show her who you are. Why can't you see she is still…what did call her…,"

"My hummingbird," Fitz responds in the softest tone. His mother smiles. "Mom stop." She scoots him out of the room, to speak to his Father alone

/

A Bit of Spice…

Fitz walks to her room. He knocks steps inside. "Liv?" No answer. He looks for her and she's not there. There is no way she ran off. He spots an agent. "Mitch?" He explains.

"Yes Sir," Fitz commands.

Mitch escorts him to the small Residence family kitchen. It's not used often, only on weekends, when Fitz cooks for himself. Fitz enters slowly. He spots Olivia digging in the baking cabinet. She's kneeling on the counter, rummaging for flour, sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, soda, etc.

"Oh no," he mutters not wishing to startle her. He observes her quietly. It's apparent some things never change. When she studied for her midterms and finals, she baked to relieve the stress. This did not change after they were married.

He would arrive home to dozens of cookies, cupcakes, and muffins. She always baked his cake for his birthday, holidays or special occasions. His staff would enjoy the fruits of Olivia's labor. He's smiles at the spices on the counter and butter warming to room temperature. Then he sees raisins.

"She can't be," he speaks quietly. "Is she really?"

Slowly he saunters closer. "Liv?"

"AHHH," she screeches slipping off the counter into Fitz's waiting arms. Her head bounces off his shoulder. Seeing she did not crash onto the floor she lifts her face to meet his stormy blue eyes. He's smirking like he's won the biggest stuffed toy at the country fair. "You," she warns.

His smile broadens. "Me what Doc," he teases.

"Scared the living shit out of me," she hits him on the back of his head. "You asshole," he chuckles at her cursing. "You made me cuss. You happy." He laughs more. "Didn't you Momma teach you it's not pilot to scare a lady?"

He still has not placed her feet on the floor. To be honest he does not want to. It's been forever since he held her this way. He'd be lying to himself admitting he'd missed it and her. She's still as light as a feather. She feels the same pressed against his body - better in fact. If she's gained weight, he'd cannot tell.

"Well my Momma isn't here so no harm no fowl," he jests with a growing impish grin. He stands holding her honeymoon style. "I won't spill the beans if you won't." She eyes him. His hand moves up slightly nearing her bottom. "Move that hand up Mr. President, I swear on my Pa-Pa's grave I'll lay you on this table and skin your hide."

His skin prickles at her brisk tone. "You think you can take me down," he challenges.

"I know I can. I haven't forgotten any of your ticklish spots." He nibbles his inner cheek. "Now put me down right now before you drop me. I'd hate to walk down the aisle on crutches."

"What if I don't want to let you go," his eyes widen. His pulse quickens. "I mean…put you down."

Her lips part. "Fitz…," She's rattled. Again. His face becomes heated. He should not have said anything. All this time they've spent together clouds his judgment. Every day he feels their relationship changing. They bickered about little things.

She catches his longing looks and when they are alone. Every so slowly she discerns images of the man she met and fell in love with long ago. He's taking the tinniest of steps, certifying he doesn't overwhelm her or himself. If he pushes they'll be worse off than they were before.

"Look I'll just…," he sputters walking to a chair. He sits her down staring into her eyes. His eyes fall to her lips. Hints of her boysenberry lip-gloss waft into his nose. She still wears it. He loved kissing it off her lips. He never could get enough. She nips her bottom lip nervously as his eyes darken.

"Boysenberry," she blurts out. "It's still my favorite."

His hand cups her face. "I see," he sighs inching his thumb closer to her lips. He chastises himself wondering if she still tastes the same after all these years. Would she be a "sweet" as he remembers or better? He's surprised she's not yelling.

"We ah…," she stammers observing the struggle in his eyes. He steps back but she grabs his hand. "Don't go," she pleads. He stops but doesn't get closer. "You wanna help Fly Boy."

He smirks. "Your serious," he inquires clearly remembering when she baked, she'd kick him out of the kitchen. "Because if I recall you hated when I was in the kitchen before."

"I am," she hops off the bar stool. "Still do but as long as you keep your hands out of the cookie dough we shouldn't have a problem." She steps directly in front of him invading his personal space. "No fingers in my dough," she warns walking her fingers up his chest. He jumps. "Promise?"

"Yes Ma'am," his eyes sparkle.

She rids him off his jacket. His pulse quickens when she goes for his tie. His hands stop her. "But if you don't want to and go rule the World it's…," she steps back but he pulls into him.

"The World can wait. My wife needs me," he replies. She blushes fazed by his words. They rolled off his tongue so easily. Olivia loses herself in his eyes. Olivia longed to hear these words for so long and for him to mean it. "Right?"

She nods. He removes his tie, unfastens the top two buttons of his dress shirt. Not once his gaze wavers. "So," he reaches for an apron. Then he fastens hers. "What are WE baking to help us de-stress and stay away from my parents and yours soon."

"Spicy Oatmeal Raisin cookies," she explains showing him the recipe. His lips part. "It used to be…,"

"My favorite," he finishes for her. "Still is. You haven't made these since…,"

"The day before Noah was born," she sniffles. She baked up a storm craving cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves in the cookies. Their house smelt like fall. They became Fitz's favorite. Since that day, she couldn't. It didn't feel right. For some strange reason, this moment is. He lifts the heavy mixer bringing it closer to where they are.

He reaches for the butter. She tears up gripping the mixer. These memories of them, the life they could have had if Noah did not die, flood into her mind. Everything they missed out on and what's going to happen in a few days. "Hey…," he coos.

"I don't know if I can do this," she admits not referring to making cookies. Her hands tremble unwrapping the butter. She cannot stop shaking.

He steps behind her, lacing his hands with hers. "Then I'm exactly where I need to be. Here with you," he mutters close to her ear. His cheek beside her ear. Olivia's back nestles against his chest as Fitz moves closer. His breath hitches responding to her. Her shampoo permeates his senses when her head leans on his chest.

"Then you best not leave me alone then," her fingers tighten their grip. She removes their hands from the mixer wrapping his arms securely around her. "I don't know how to be the First Lady or…," he presses his cheek against hers stopping her words. "What you need?"

He closes his eyes relishing in the feel of her in his arms. "Don't change for them Livy, the country, the Press, or anyone." She sniffles. "Even me."

"But…,"

He lifts her face to meet his. "Look at me." She tenses. "Please?" Her lids lift. "Only change if it's something you want. Don't do it for me. You have nothing to prove."

"How can you be sure?"

"Because in those perfect pools of molten chocolate and caramel," his eyes bore into hers. "I still see you. We will get through this. Our counselling." Which they need to start. "And…,"

"What if we hate each other when this is all over with," she questions willing herself not to fall apart in his arms. This is the safest she's felt in so long. She should move away but she can't bring herself to do so.

He turns her around. "Olivia I will never hate you. Not now or ever." He smirks. "But I will pissed off if we don't get to these cookies."

She laughs. "Always thinking with your stomach."

He winks. She spins to make the dough. Once it's made, she sits in the freezer to chill. They go over their vow renewal fearing if they don't, their parents will hurt them both.

Over and hour later, the kitchen smells like an autumn day. His parents enter, stop seeing the two of them working together. "I think we're going to be all right Lil," Jerry whispers observing his son and Olivia toss flour at one another.

She reaches for her phone, videotaping their flour fight for Miss Pearl. She cups her husband's face. "Oh I reckon so." Lillian and Jerry are spotted. They walk over to the Olivia and Fitz to enjoy the fruits of their labor. They are pleased to see the vow renewal up and ideas jotted down.

After dinner, Olivia's parents arrive. Olivia, Fitz, his parents are driven to Andrews Air Force Base to meet the plane.

Miss Pearl rushes off the plane headed straight for Fitz. "My only son in law," she coos kissing his cheeks squeezing his face. Olivia bites her lip to stop herself from laughing.

"Hi Miss Pearl," Fitz blushes on the look-out for Olivia's father. He spots him hugging Olivia and speaking to his Father. Earl sees him, saunters in his direction. "Mr. Pope."

"Mr. President," Earl shakes Fitz's hand. "Thank you for coming."

"I had no choice," Earl hisses. "Your agents made me leave my guns home. I reckon they were afraid I'd shoot yah in the ass."

"DADDY," Olivia bellows.

"Earl you hush," she sighs hugging Fitz. Earl rolls his eyes looking at Jerry and Lillian. Before he has a chance to greet them, Pearl and Lillian are hugging each other in tears. Then his wife is hugging Jerry. After the parents continue to chat among themselves staring at Olivia and Fitz, they are escorted to the motorcade.

The ride to the White House shocks Earl and Pearl who never experienced anything like it before. They gawk at the blocked off streets, and police escorts.

When they hit the black gates, "Oh my nickers," Miss Pearl gasps when the gates open.

"Momma," Olivia squeezes her hand.

"My baby girl is really First Lady," Olivia's mother exclaims. Olivia rolls her eyes. Once the entire party is safely inside, Lillian and Pearl pick apart the vow renewal ceremony with a fine tooth comb. It is hours later, nearing ten at night before any final decisions are made.

Fitz insists everyone turn in for the evening. Olivia brings her parents to their room for their stay while Fitz is with his parents. An hour later, she finds him on the Truman Balcony nursing a scotch in a chair.

"You gotta second glass," she speaks startling him.

He spins to face her. "Since when?"

"Now. I'm going to have to sneak out tomorrow and buy hair dye if THEY don't quit," Olivia plops down on the couch. "Our Momma's are still yapping at one another." He grumbles. Before Fitz has a chance to speak, Olivia lifts her finger asking him to wait while she rushes off the balcony. In less than ten minutes she's back with hooch.

"FUCK ME," he gasps seeing the clear liquid. Olivia laughs. "Your Momma really snuck this in here."

"It was buried in her suitcase, wrapped in her underwear," she explains. Her comment sends Fitz's scotch flying out of his mouth across the balcony.

"Seriously?"

"If I'm lying I'm dying. She knew the agents wouldn't dare look at her unmentionables," Olivia giggles. "Give me your glass." She pours them both a drink. He sits next to her. "You know we're doomed right."

He leans his head back glancing at her. "Yup." They sip the clear liquid. It burns both their throats causing them both to cough and gag. "Shit did your Mom make this in the bath-tub?"

"Don't know but probably," she giggles observing Fitz swallow it. He always had a hard time drinking it. Then Fitz really starts to laugh. "What?"

"I can't believe we're drinking hooch your Momma snuck in under the Secret Service's nose. And on the Truman Balcony," he explains laughing more. She's laughing with him. Holding her stomach till it hurts. He's unable to lift his eyes from hers. He's missed hearing this sound, her laugh.

She catches him staring. "It's not polite to stare Mr. President."

He blushes. "Do you remember our first wedding?" She hits him. "Ouch!"

"Of course I do you dip-shit," she chastises sipping the hooch. He chortles. He slides his arm behind her neck. She leans on it willingly fluttering her eyes glancing into his. "You nearly passed out seeing me for the first time in my gown."

He sighs as the memory of Olivia in her wedding gown with veil appear in his mind. She was beyond beautiful – more than he was prepared for. They continue to gaze lovingly at one another while the memories of their wedding day nearly ten years ago, appear in their mind like a Hallmark movie…

/

Flashback – Beach Wedding

Almost 10 years prior...

"Momma," Olivia faces her mother in her wedding gown. The veil is over her eyes. She stands on the pedestal in front of a full length mirror with the sun illuminating her from behind. She's never seen her little girl look more beautiful. The dress is everything.

"Oh my stars," Miss Pearl coos doing her best to not ruin her mascara. She begins fanning her face with both hands to stop the water works.

Olivia steps off the pedestal rushing to her Mother. Abby-Lynn is behind her holding the train. "Dab Momma. I can have you all messed up when you go out there. Do you want me to get Fitz's Momma?"

"No child," her mother sighs catching her tears. "I just need a minute to compose myself. You not my little girl any more. Soon you'll be Fitz's wife and one day a Momma yourself." She kisses both her Mother's cheeks. "Never forget where you came from and how much your Daddy will shoot him if he breaks your heart."

"Yes Ma'am," she chuckles. A knock is heard on the door. Abby peaks through the hole. She opens the door for Earl.

"Holy Ghost," Earl gasps, nearly dropping Olivia's flowers. "That dim-whit fiancée of yours is a more nervous than a cat in a room full of rockers. I can plainly see why."

"Daddy," Olivia giggles.

Earl walks to Olivia. He holds her hand. "Do your old man a favor?"

"Anything…,"

"I best not see you two necking and the limo rocking. No father wants to see that," Earl grumbles. "I've seen that enough already."

"DADDY," Olivia hisses.

Earl kisses her face over the veil. He walks her to the door. "I love you Sugar Bean."

"I love you Daddy," she sighs leaning on his arm. The door opens. Olivia walks with her parents to the double doors that will lead her to Fitz. Her heart pounds loudly in her ears as Abby and the other bridesmaids walk down the aisle.

"Here Comes the Bride" echoes. She nods to the ushers to open the doors hearing. The doors open. Instantly her eyes find Fitz. Her first step he wobbles. Andrew catches him quickly before he topples over. His hand covers his heart taking her in –finally.

Her Bohemian lace wedding dress with short sleeves with lace over her upper arms flows behind her like a butterfly…no Hummingbird.

"My little hummingbird," he mouths as she approaches him. The gown fans out lifting off the ground as she glides towards him. With each step, Fitz's ragging heart beat calms. He keeps his hands folded in front of him until she's before him with Earl.

"Take care of my little girl," Earl warn shaking Fitz's hand.

"You have my word," Fitz answers with confidence. He's waited years for this moment – for her. Earl places Olivia's hands in Fitz's.

"Hi," she sniffles through her veil.

"Hi Sweetheart," Fitz mutters doing his best to stop himself from crying. "My God you're beautiful." He presses his forehead into hers. "I can't believe you're about to be my wife. My Hummingbird."

"Fitz," she blubbers holding his cheek. They've waited SO long for this moment. Everything is perfect – from the benches lining the aisle with white bouquets of roses hanging off hooks on the corners of each entrance. The bay followed by the ocean over the dune in the background.

Huge trees offer shade to their guests, with a daisy and rose covered gazebo she now stands under with Fitz. Off in the distance where the ocean meets the bay, their white tent waits, with a candle lit walkway around the perimeter. At nightfall, their enter area will shine under the lights.

This place, where they are about to recite their vows is where Fitz proposed a year ago. He waited till she had 2 years left of college. He could not wait any longer. Fitz sheepishly asked her out on a date. He parked where they had their first kiss. He insisted she stay by the car while he walked down the beach.

"What you up to," she pleaded until one by one candles illuminated. She squinted until he retrieved her from the car and walked her slowly onto the pier. "OH MY GOD," she squealed seeing the words "Will you marry me," written in candles on the sand.

She faced Fitz. He was on one knee before her with sparkling diamond ring. Her hand covered her heart listening, "My dearest Livy. You came into my life like a wild brush fire igniting a flame within me I had no idea existed. Each minute, day we spend together I need more. I never want our time together to end. From the first time I looked into your eyes, I knew I found the home of my heart."

"Fitz," she cried.

"You are sun in my sky, the moon at night. You are everything I've ever wanted in one woman and more. There is nothing I wouldn't give you or do for you. You are and will always be the love of my life Livy. So after all this time we've been together, I'm finally going to do what I've wanted to do since our first date."

He lifts her hand.

"Will you do me the honor or becoming my forever partner, my wife because without you there is no lightning in my storm – marry me Livy," he coos sliding the ring onto her finger. She nearly collapses unprepared for his proposal. Fitz catches her. "Liv," he murmurs.

When she lifted her tear soaked face from her hands she begins nodding YES.

"Yes," Fitz speaks for her.

"Yes Fitz. Yes I'll marry you," she's cut off when he kisses her. The kiss leaves her head spinning, toes curling, and every piece aching for Fitz to take her bed.

Now she stands before him, to become his wife. There is no more waiting. She has no doubts, she will be with Fitz till the day she leaves this earth and beyond. The minister clears his throat from them to begin. After his welcoming remarks, he waits Olivia to begin her vows.

"Fitz," she sniffles. "Ever since I was a little girl, swinging on my front porch, playing in the sand at the beach, waiting for those thunder clouds to roll in I always felt I was sitting tight for lightning to strike. Its bright light, the flash after it hits, the crack of the thunder in the sky was something that always attracted me. Never did I imagine when I walked into the diner, when I met you, the owner of the storm stirring within me would find me and call me home."

She squeezes his hands drawing strength.

"From the flash when my eyes met yours, my life hasn't been the same. You've brought a light into my life I didn't know existed. You made me believe I can do anything my little heart desires. You see me like no person ever has or ever will. If I have wings, it's because you helped me grow them. I ONLY want to fly home to you. You make me want to sing to the heavens, and dance like no one's watching."

She wipes tear.

"From this day on till my last breath I promise to love you with all my heart. To be your strength, carry you when you're weak; to be the little voice in your head, urging you to do the right thing or smacking you when you do wrong."

The crowd chuckles.

"When things go dark, upside down and pear-shaped, I'll be the light leading you home. If you're blinded, I'll be there holding your hand through it giving you the push to keep going. I vow to tell it to you straight, no bull, or lies, so you always know where we stand."

He cups her face.

"Most of all I promise to be faithful to ONLY you as your wife, best friend, lover and anything in between till death do us part. There is no me without you. I love you and I cannot wait to be your wife."

The minister hands her his ring. She slides it onto his left hand. "With this ring I Olivia Carolyn Pope take you Fitzgerald Thomas Grant III to be my husband in sickness, health, better, worse, richer, poorer, to love, cherish till the good Lord separates us. I forsake all others because you and you alone own my heart and soul. This is my vow."

She's crying.

"I love you Fitz."

"Livy," he sniffles. She cups his face holding it delicately in his hands. "I always hoped I'd get married one day. I wanted a marriage, like my parents filled with love, hope, joy, and laughter. A true partner into my golden years to be there to guide me through life. As I grew older, I gave up on it. At the time I met you, I was nearing my thirties. No one I encountered set my heart and soul on fire."

She nips her bottom lip.

"And then, gosh," he sighs pressing his forehead into hers. "You breezed, no blew into my life like a F5 tornado turning my World upside down. My stomach has been twisted in knots since but I wouldn't have it any other way. The day I saw you I knew my life would never be the same. With only a look from you across the diner, I was totally yours. I felt my heart leave my chest, and merging with yours."

She sniffles.

"Since then, I never got it back, nor do I want it. My heart is yours Livy. Everything I have is yours. There is nothing I wouldn't give you because after our first date and kiss," he glances around, "which was right hear by the way," she chuckles. "I knew I'd never find another woman like you nor was I willingly to give you up."

He pauses.

"You see, what I didn't know then, was that I fell head over heels in love with you at first sight. I didn't believe in such a thing, until I met you. I always felt my life was meant for more, but I had no idea, until you, what the love of a strong, courageous, brave, beautiful, and brilliant woman could do to a man."

"Livy, you understand me in a way I never imagined. You give me hope, love, confidence. As long as I have you, your love, and your heart," he croaks becoming emotional, "I can do anything. If I am the light in your sky, then you Sweetheart are the Sun and Moon in mine."

"Fitz," she mouths. Her legs wobble. He wraps his arms around her.

"If I am your thunder and lightning, you Olivia Carolyn Pope are the eye of the perfect storm. You calm me, sooth my fears, and most of all, center me in a place of peace and tranquility while everything around me swirls out of control. Without you, I am nothing."

She cannot stop crying.

"I promise to always be your home. To have the light on. To love you now and always with all of me, forever being the man you need. To not only be your strength, but biggest fan; to hold and keep you close when you're sad."

The minister gives him Olivia's ring. "From this day forward I Fitzgerald Thomas Grant III take you Olivia Carolyn Pope to be my wedded wife. To have. To hold in forsaking all others I will always be faithful to you for better, worse, richer, poorer, sickness and health to death do us part. This is my vow."

After the couple speaks "I do."

"You may kiss your bride," the minister instructs Fitz.

"Thank you Jesus," Fitz announces loudly. Their guests giggle. His hands cup his new wife's face. He stares into her eyes for a minute before lowering his face to hers. She rises on her tip-toes to meet him. Before their lips touch he asks, "Can I kiss you Sweetheart?"

She sheds happy tears with his question. A reminder of their very first kiss in this very spot. "You'd have to ask my husband Mr. Grant," she teases. "He'd be awfully ticked off." The crowd laughs hearing her answer. He lifts her off the ground.

"FITZ," she squeals.

"Mrs. Grant will you permit me to kiss my bride and beautiful wife," he pleads hovering his lips over hers. Her heart flutters rapidly nearly leaping out of her chest hearing Fitz address her as his wife. Never before as her name felt more wonderful.

"My heavens yes," she exhales. Her hot shallow breath mixes with Fitz's just before his lips press onto hers. He kisses her slow. Their guests melt away. His lips brush over hers slow, and soft. His hand travels up her back, wrapping around her neck. He dips her backwards. Her feet touch the ground.

Fitz's left thumb caresses her cheek as their breaths mingle together. She grips his shoulder before threading her fingers into his curls, pulling him closer until there's no space left between them. His heart pounds in his chest until it connects with hers, calming.

His open mouth deliberately slow kisses nearly knock the wind out of her. Her mouth partly opens. Fitz wastes no time sneaking his tongue inside searching for its mate. She sinks into his frame feeling herself walking on air. His mouth is warm. He cares less they are in the presence of their guests or minister.

Fitz finally lifts his lips from hers when both need to breath. Her eyes flutter open meeting her husband's bright blue eyes. His erection is pressed against her gown. Their first kiss was their new beginning a promise of much more to come and so much more.

The minister announces;

"May I present for the first time in public, Mr. Fitzgerald Thomas Grant III and his wife Mrs. Olivia Carolyn Grant."

/

TBC…

Yes my darlings I am going to leave it here. The next chapter should pick up at their vow renewal. If you'd like to see Doc's gown, where they got married, and the reception tent, please look at my twitter page, tumblr, and my FB author page. All under my pen name. I wanted you to see their first wedding.

I hope this chapter was what you hoped it would be. You got a glimpse of Olivia's relationship with the Grants. His parents truly adore her. Also Miss Pearl and Lillian have been in contact their entire separation. Oh yes the mommies have been praying for this for a very long time.

Olitz is getting along and their relationship is changing. Fitz is putting himself out there for his First Lady. He's attempting to make amends for the past and whether he realizes it or not, he's wooing her all over again. (Grins)

Please stay tuned for my other stories to update and if you haven't check out "Heart of Midtown." It's my newest. I'll be looking forward to the #Crumbs to drop.

Thank you for reading and please have a good weekend,

Toodles…

Me's