Hello #Gladiators. I realize I told you all I would not do an #OlitzXMasFic this year but after 509 I changed my mind. This story has been in my mind on and off since the winter finale and I gave into the #OlitzXmasCheer and wrote it.
It's ENTIRELY AU and should provide enough #Fluff, #MushyGushies and #WarmFuzzies to help us all recover (including myself.) So this fic and "Yes Mr. President There is a Santa Claus" will be updated the most in the coming weeks towards Xmas.
So this year you get TWO Olitz Xmas Fics. I hope no one minds. (And if you do, tough cookies. Don't read then.)
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Miracle On "Hope" Street
"Fitzgerald Grant has been missing some "hope" in his life for the last three years. Something drastic happened to him. It changed his outlook on life, love and hope. Even winning the 2012 Presidential Election seemed like it would be help Fitz, but he was still missing something HOPE. He goes back to a place from his past that help make him the person he is today. But what he does not realize is that when he returns 'home'- he not only finds the HOPE he's been searching for, but a miracle waiting for him. This not only changes him, but the person he meets."
Enjoy, and leave #MiracleCrumbs
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Chapter 1: Going "Home" for Christmas
December 2012 (Three Weeks before Christmas)
Fitzgerald Thomas Grant III had just won the 2012 Presidential Election in one of the closest races in the Nation's History. He's is one of two children, and the oldest. His younger sister, five years his junior, he is very close too, is not in politics but has a law degree. Their parents Senator Fitzgerald Grant II and Lillian Grant did not encourage her to go into law, but one visit to a law firm, she was hooked.
She is very supportive of Fitz and was thrilled when he decided to run for the White House. Initially it seemed he had a slim chance of winning, but he against all odds he won it. He was being inaugurated in about 6 weeks with his family by his side. But for the moment all he wanted to do was get away from California before heading to Washington. This was his last bit of freedom and Christmas where he wouldn't be swamped with obligations for the White House. He wanted to do something special.
Before running for President, he was in his second term as Governor of California and climbing the political latter quickly. He was elected Governor in his thirties, considered young for his age, but the people liked that he was "new" and gave a fresh look at issues in their state. It also helped that his father was a two time Governor and four time Senator.
Fitz passed some fundamental bills in the Legislature. His Education bill gave public schools in low income areas new text books every three to five years and updated technology. As the graduation approached, and the teenager maintained an upper C grade point average, if they qualified, the child received extra money to go to college or a technical school. This helped teen's stay in school and decreased the State's drop-out rate.
Due to this bill or others like it, his approval ratings were constantly on the rise. There were no scandals in his family, and anyone working closely with Fitz was vetted through the appropriate channels. With help and encouragement from his father, he decided to throw his name into the 2012 election. Fitz had always wanted to become President of the United States, and with his family's support he decided to run for the White House.
Both is mother, and father "Big Jerry" were pleased with his decision and supported him whole heartedly. His father said he had the "looks, charms, and great head of hair," which made him handsome to look at. Fitz had a decorated military career in the Navy, flying F-14's in combat. Because of his top notch flying, Fitz got selected to go to "Top Gun," the Navy's prestigious flying school, and graduated second in class.
With all his accomplishments, his Chief of Staff had faith that he would win. Against all the odds he beat Sally Langston, running as a Democrat. Samuel Reston was her Vice President and the country seemed to have rallied behind them, until the closing months of the election. They made the crucial mistake of attacking Fitz's character, which hurt them in the closing weeks of the campaign.
Fitz had insisted on running a clean campaign, and did not allow anyone on his staff to engage in any "political mudslinging." He knew they were provoking him to talk about his "past" but he refused to comment not only in the Press, but otherwise. Fitz ONLY wanted to move forward with his life, leaving his painful past behind. It was harder said than done though.
In early September, Fitz was gaining momentum and the American Public was falling for him more and more. Langston and Reston were desperate to gain an advantage, and bringing up Fitz's past was a mistake. The country liked their plan and agenda, but they didn't count on this hurting their chances. Sally did not want to get into this type of debate with Fitz either because it could gain him sympathy votes, then in turn win the White House.
There was much said in the Press about Fitz running as a Republican even though he was anything but traditional. He did not have the "normal family values" but the Nation saw something in him. He was down to earth, humble, and took his time speaking to as many people as time allowed at his campaign stops. It didn't matter to Fitz if they were rich or poor he took his time with everyone, listening to their concerns for the country, and what he could do to change it for the better.
As Fitz's popularity grew across America, he became "The Man of the People." The American Public found it refreshing that he was young, handsome, and genuinely cared about everyone he met. The country knew of Fitz's personal life. They walked behind him, encouraging him to be strong and move forward with his life. Reporters were curious why Fitz would not talk about "that side" of his life.
His Chief of Staff as Governor, naturally ran his campaign. They would have long arguments on this 'one' issue Fitz refused to discuss. "I am not talking about this," Fitz argued with his Chief of Staff the day before the final debate against Langston and Reston.
"Sir, the nation wants to know these things about you. Someone from the crowd could ask you a question and it would be a perfect time to finally clear the air. The Nation only knows from what they've read on the internet and papers," they continue but is stopped by Fitz's death stare.
"This issue will not be brought up in this final debate," Fitz voiced with distain. "Sally and Samuel Reston have done it enough. I refuse to do so," he voiced in anger. He was still not over it, and did not want to address it. "The country is aware enough of my personal life. They do not need to know EVERY single detail of what happened to me or that night. I WILL NOT talk about it interviews or at a debate. If I am asked, I will not comment," and he would walk away.
"And if you win, will you address it then," Fitz was asked.
"If I WIN, the Nation will have to take me as I am. I will NOT be forced into anything," he voices with conviction. "I am winning this on my own- the Right Way. Understood?"
"Yes Sir," his Chief of Staff comments. They had been friends for many years and longed to see him not only win the White House but happy again.
As the results of election night were announced and Fitz realized he won, he was in shock. It was a dream come true and the new few weeks he was swamped. He did interviews, talk shows, and constantly on the move. He barely had a chance to catch a breath, never mind rest. He felt like he was going to need some kind a miracle to make it to his Inauguration Day.
Once Fitz was alone, in the coming weeks, he always remembered and thanked his lucky stars for his parents and sister's faith in him. If it was not for him, and one other special person he would not be the man he is today. During his Senior Year of high school he would constantly rebel and get into trouble outside of school. He fell into the wrong crowd, and if he was not "Big Jerry's son" things would have been much worse.
He was brilliant and his grades were always top notch. He did complete his work, but outside of school he got into trouble. Finally after graduation, his parents had enough and sent him away for the summer and fall far away from California. Lillian made a phone call to an old family friend, "Hi I need your help," was all she said into the phone.
"Anything what is it," the other person asked on the phone. "You know I'll help you any way I can."
"It's Fitz. If I don't get him out of here we'll lose him and he'll lose himself. He's been in some sticky situations and if Jerry and I don't do something we could lose him. He's done nothing illegal but Jerry and I are afraid it could lead to that. I need your help," Fitz's mother pleaded into the phone. This friend of the family, always told Lillian no matter what she needed they would be there. They had been friends for ages and always there for the other.
"Consider it handled," the family friend stated with no reservations. Arrangements were made and Fitz was sent to Hope, Vermont. It was a small, quaint town in the beautiful Side Hills County. Everyone in this town knew everyone by their first name, and if Fitz stepped out of line, it would surely get back to his family. There he worked for his room and board, and learned how to be a man. He learned to respect and care for others, especially the "family friend" that would not stand for any of his attitude.
The time he spend in Hope, Vermont changed his life. When he went back to home to California he went to college, got his degree and then entered the Navy. Fitz became a top pilot and his squadron's commander. Once he was honorably discharged from the Navy, he became Governor of California. In all the years that have passed he never forgot about Hope, Vermont and the wonderful people there that changed his life.
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"Hope for Christmas"
His mother's friend still kept in contact with not only his mother but him as well. She repeatedly wrote letters, never emailing him. Fitz's asked his mother about it, "Fitzgerald she's old fashioned and wise beyond her years. I've known her forever. She feels that siting down writing a letter is more personal and done with more care. It keeps her focused and she loves it. Write back to her the old fashion way."
Fitz grinned at his mother's words and to this very day, they still correspond in this manner. Her mother's friend loved hearing from "Blue Eyes," the name she gave him when Lillian brought him to meet her as a young boy. It warmed her heart to receive his letters and once Fitz became Governor, he made it a point to call her whenever he could.
Now that he won the highest office in the land, he made it a point not only to thank her in his acceptance speech but to call her as soon as he had the chance.
"Blue Eyes is that you," Miss Rose cooed into the phone. It was nearly Christmas and she hoped to hear from him. "Or should I say Mr. President."
"Yes Ma'am," Fitz answers, partially blushing.
"I told always knew you would make it to Pennsylvania Avenue. You just needed to be steered in the right direction," Miss Rose explained to him on the phone. "Plus I know those blue peepers of yours one over the ladies."
Fitz felt his face flush in embarrassment. He was not only in his early forties but President and this woman still could turn his face beat red. Fitz exhaled on the line. "I apologize for taking this long to contact you Miss Rose."
"Oh hush Fitzgerald," Fitz chuckles hearing her state his full name. "I am just happy you did. So I gather you are well considering."
"Up to a point," Fitz admits. Rose knows everything about him, and he can talk to her about anything. But she never pushes him. She knows he'll talk about things ONLY when he's ready. "It's just stressful setting up a new administration."
"I have no doubt. Don't let your Chief of Staff turn those curls grey and trust your gut. I have faith and hope in you," she coughs.
"Miss Rose," Fitz hears it. "Are you well?"
"Oh my yes. Just a cold," but he hears something in her voice. "I'm not getting any younger. I just hope to see you before you take office. My life has changed a lot since I saw you before you became Governor. It has been much too long. I'd like to see you before you become President."
"I'll fly you down for my Inauguration. You can hold the bible for me Miss Rose," Fitz teases her.
"Now Blue Eyes," making Fitz laugh. "The Press would have a fit, and so would your family. Plus I'm an old lady. I have never been on a plane."
"Well Miss Rose it wouldn't just be ANY plane. I'd send Air Force One," he quips.
"Are you trying to sweep me off my feet, and get into my good graces?" Rose laughs.
"No. I am just after your Apple Pie recipe. I want to give it to the Chef at the White House," he teases her.
"Oh child, it's going to take a lot more than a plane ride for that to happen," she pauses hearing her name called. "Coming…,"
"Company," Fitz asks hearing the voice.
"Oh yes. Always. I am never alone. Just because I am getting up in my years, doesn't mean I still can't run a house hold. Let your Momma I am fine. I know she worries," Rose chastises Fitz on the phone. "However if you do come see me, please make sure your parents come too. I'd like to see them…" she pauses choosing her words. "It's been way too long and Hope, Vermont misses you."
Fitz senses something is wrong. "Miss Rose are you okay," she asks. "I just feel…"
"Mr. President," Rose attempts to stop his questioning.
"I am NOT President yet," Fitz corrects her.
"Child you NEVER correct your elders because of what reason," she speaks him in a tone he knows not to contradict.
"Because they are always right Miss Rose," he chuckles. "But I have been inaugurated yet."
"Semantics child," she teases him further. Rose then hears her name being called again. "I'll be right there Sunshine."
"I am getting too old for that name," the person answers, making Fitz laugh. The voice sounds young and warm. The person then enters the room. "How are you talking to, The President," causing both Fitz and Rose to laugh.
"Oh if they only knew," Fitz answers. "Take care Miss Rose. I'll see you soon. I promise."
"I taught you well Blue Eyes," Rose calls him one more time then hangs up.
Once Fitz hands up the phone, he goes and speaks to his parents. He realizes he needs to get away from everything before moving into the White House. Trusting his gut he now knows where he wants to go. The Secret Service would have to secure the location but Fitz's feels this is something he must do.
"Hello everyone," kissing his mother on the cheek.
Lillian knows he spoke with Miss Rose. "How is she Fitz?"
"She seems well Mom. But I think something is definitely going on," sitting down. Lillian hears the concern in his voice. She touches his shoulder and hands him a glass of water. "Is she still running the business?"
"Well she is up there in age," Big Jerry states standing next to his mother. "I do believe she has help. But she never lost her sweet spot for you Fitzgerald," his father states. "Even after all this time."
"I know," Fitz blushes. "I know since winning the election things around the Governor's Mansion have been hectic, and you all think I need a break, to regroup."
"You do need a break. Think about everything you've gone through in the last three years," his mother walked over to him and sat down. "Fitzgerald you haven't allowed yourself anytime to breathe, move on, or allow open yourself up to what life has to offer."
"Mom. Dad," he grumbles, not wanting to start this conversation. "I know my people on my staff will object but I am going to go away for Christmas and I'd like for you both and my sister to join me on December 24th." His parents smile. "Since winning, and everything else that's happened over the last few years I do think it would be good for me especially to get away."
Big Jerry points out. "Your Chief of Staff, and Press Secretary will need to make a statement Fitz if you do not spend it here in California. This is your last holiday as Governor of this state. Don't you think you should be here?"
"I am entitled to some R and R Dad," Fitz interjects. "Many President-Elects have gone away Dad. You above all else understand that. I just want to be able to breath and not have the entire world watching me for once. I've been under a microscope well before the election and I want more than a minute to be myself. I need to regroup and focus my attention on becoming this country's leader."
His parents agree. The last few years have been extremely stressful for Fitz. With his life spiraling out of control, him struggling to gain it back, they understand. Now that he's won the election it is a wise move for Fitz to get away. He won't be do in Washington till just before the Inauguration so this could work. Big Jerry and Lillian will support his decision and if need be make a statement to the Press to give their son time to relax.
"We'll help you Fitz," Lillian hold his hand. "You have us on your side. You just have to explain this to you Chief of Staff. Don't worry you father and I will be standing by just in case a cardiac machine is needed."
Fitz grins then exhales. "Thanks. I now know where that is going to be."
Lillian grins. "Where to?"
"Come on Mom," Fitz groans. His mother knows him well but wants to hear him say it. "Like you don't have a good idea already."
"Humor me Fitz dear," his mother coos playfully. "This has been a long time coming."
Fitz lets out a breath he didn't know he was holding, "I want to go to home to Hope, Vermont for Christmas."
His parents grin. Big Jerry boasts, "Good. Now I can have some of Miss Rose's jam. You know she makes the best," rubbing his stomach. Lillian nudges his arm.
"I am not going up there for Jam Dad," Fitz explains. "And..," he pauses trusting his gut that he's going there for another reason. He just doesn't know what that is yet.
"And," Lillian asks.
"I don't know Mom. But I am trusting my gut and Hope, Vermont is definitely where I need to be," he states, taking a sip of tea not realizing how this trip is NOT only going to change his life, but give him the HOPE in his life he's been missing for far too long.
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#DropsCookieCrumbs and runs…
Now before ANYONE says a word I will NOT forget about my other stories. I know I get a lot of #Fitz about not finishing my others but I will do so, even if it takes me till forever. I just really feel that a fic like this is needed right now to heal our hearts from the finale. I surely believe that.
I am sure you want to know about Fitz's "personal life," how Olivia comes into his life, and many other clues I left for you in the story. I deliberately left some important names out for a reason. (Hint…Hint) Sorry can't give you everything at once, especially if I this story becomes popular. But if you have any ideas PM, or DM me.
Also I would like to personally thank iwrite4olitz (Yes #NoRegrets) author for encouraging me to do this. You the bomb girl and you can thank her. I'm sure it would make her day. ;-)
So off to finish my chapter for #YMPTIASC. Hope to post soon. Leave #ChristmasCookies if you want more.
Me's