CHAPTER 7


The sun beamed upon Hawke's face; his gaze was locked onto the cloudless sky, a shining blue that could allow him feed off of its beauty and live forever. This day could make everyone live off of its beauty forever. Clara frolicked around one of the dozens of grand fountains of a spectacular cascade of tumbling water down twenty-four stone steps, jumping and splashing about with not a care in the world.

Hawke and Dominic watched as she laughed and giggled forgetting about the past events of the morning.

"Everything about her past behavior makes sense now," Dominic said.

"Yeah, our initial instincts were right. I just didn't imagine it was..." Hawke could not finish.

"I know String, but just focus on now. Look at her, she's happier than a monkey with a peanut machine." Dominic said with a big bright smile.

Hawke busted out a big laugh, his friend always knew a way to make him laugh and see the brighter side of things even at his darkest hour. "Yeah, she is."

"There's one thing that's bothering me; she knew to look for that headset. To contact you know what for help," Dominic said.

"Yeah, we're gonna have to keep an eye on her," Hawke said sharing his concern as well.

"Look at this place String, it's beautiful here and to think this was to be her's. I still can't believe they were that twisted to kill her for this, it's grand and magnificent but is it worth it," Dominic said.

"I've meant to tell you about my talk with Phillipa," Hawke said.

"Yeah, how did it go?" Dominic asked.

"Well, she told me that Daniel couldn't have children and that she understood about Sarah's and I relationship. She also considers Clara as her Granddaughter and since to her she is the closest person she has to her son. She is leaving the estate in trust to her," Hawke said.

"Huh?! wait, are you saying that Clara is going to inherit all of this!" Dominic exclaimed.

"Yes and a lot more," Hawke said.

"Mamma mia, How much more can there be?!" Dominic exclaimed.

"For starters a castle in Ireland and a mansion in London. The village with its parish and various other properties in France and Europe," Hawke said.

"Jumping Josephine's! She's going to be one of the richest people in the world, and that's counting your inheritance," Dominic awed.

"I know it's crazy," Hawke said still trying to digest.

"She's a real life Cinderella String, and right now you are Prince Charming. That's until she finds the Prince Charming! And you know they're gonna be lining up," Dominic laughed.

"She is Cinderella, but do not say any more about the future Prince," Hawke said.

"My lips are sealed," Dominic said with a hearty chuckle.

"Good afternoon, Mr. Hawke. I hope everything went well with your business," Philippa said as she emerged from her trek across the great lawn.

"Ah, yes it did. It went better than I expected," Hawke said.

"I'm glad to hear that. You must be Mr. Santini its a pleasure to meet you, I apologize for the delay in introducing myself but I had business that I needed to attend," Philippa said.

"Don't apologize, I should be Thanking you for allowing us here," Dominic said.

"Mr. Hawke did you settle your business in an unusual way?" Philippa asked.

"What do you mean by unusual?" Hawke asked.

"I mean using your big black helicopter to destroy the school. I believe that is one of your top secret toy's?" Philippa asked.

"How did you find out?" Hawke asked.

"Word travels very fast and I have contacts all around. Why would you do something like that, what business did you have to incinerate a school?" Philippa asked.

Hawke looked over to Clara still playing oblivious to the trio standing a few feet away. "She's the reason," Hawke said.

"I don't understand, did she school there?" She asked.

"Sarah and Daniel instructed the monastery in the event that if they did not show up, they were to immediately send her somewhere else for safety. They feared they were captured or dead and that they would come for her. They sent her to that school and turned out to be a school of horror. They terrorized her for over a year that she was there; she was locked in an attic room only to be let out three times a day. They made her a maid; she was used to cleaning up after school was out and after special occasions, she was forced to clean after their meals as well. She was schooled until it was realized that she was beyond what they could teach. When the mother superior found out she had, it stopped because she thought she was the child of the devil. She once chained her to the leg of a wardrobe when she caught her looking out the window of her room as the other children played. She beat her several times one time for asking to go trick or to treat with the others and for finding piece of candy. One of the nuns tried to get help, but the Mother Superior had the police in her pocket. Clara was finally released for that hell only unknown to her she was entering another. Three men came one day and took under the guise that it was safe for her, but they were taking her hostage to make Sarah and Daniel finish their work. The Mother Superior traded her for a donation. They locked her up and kept hidden from everyone it may have been for her protection, but they took her innocence and she'll never get that back. We'll leave immediately, so you do not get in trouble, I'm sorry to put you in a spot. I lost my temper; I could have handled it better," Hawke said.

"No, Mr. Hawke. You will not leave here; I will contact the appropriate authorities and have them, and the police dealt with. They hurt my granddaughter and they will severely pay for the consequences, I will make sure they will not have sanctuary as their protection, I have more money than I can imagine and I have power and I will use it to full advantage. No one hurts my family and get's away; I'm sick for what this girl has gone through and pains to my soul, such a beautiful child. Harmless and sweet, why her?" Philippa said.

"Thank you, but I think there is something you need to know about my helicopter. That is one of Sarah and Daniel's top secret projects that's how I met her," Hawke said.

"Daniel and Sarah helped build it? Extraordinary, I know it sounds crazy but when you incinerated that school, to me it seems now that they were as well," Philippa said.

"No, it's not crazy. How about before we leave I give you a ride, so you can see what they created. You have the right to know how brilliant they really were," Hawke said.

"That would be a wonderful idea; I can't wait." She said.

"Would you like to meet Clara?" Dominic asked.

"Yes, that is why I initially came out here. I did not want to overwhelm her; that's the reason for my delay in meeting her. I have to admit; I am a little nervous." She said.

"No worries, she's just as nervous. But you have an advantage," Hawke said.

"What's that?" She asked.

"You're wearing her favorite color," Hawke said with a grin.

"That makes me feel a little better," She said.

"Clara, come here there is someone who would like to meet you," Hawke yelled over to her.

Clara ceased playing and looked up to see a very proper older woman dressed in a purple long sleeve top adorned with a beautiful gold brooch and a pleated purple skirt. Clara stepped out of the fountain, her pants and top wet strolled over to the trio. Grabbing Hawke's hand hiding behind him as she did previously with the sisters.

"Hello, Clara my name is Philippa. I'm your other father's mother, and I'm so happy to meet you finally. You are such a beautiful girl; you look like your mother." Philippa said.

"And daddy," Clara shyly added.

"Yes, your father also. Clara, I am so sorry for what my son did, and I want you to know that he is severely punished and we will never see him again, ever. Are you having fun here?" Philippa said.

"Yes," Clara said still shy.

"I'm glad to hear that. Your father told me you like animals and lucky for you; I have lots of them. We have a small farm here, and we have hundreds of deer and sheep that roam the estate as well," Philippa said.

Clara's eyes almost popped out of her tiny head and a smile that sparkled like fireworks on the Fourth of July. "I think she just became your biggest fan," Dominic laughed.

"We also have a big stable of horses. Have you ever rode one? If not and it's ok with your father you can pick one, and it will be yours. That's if you want to come back here in the future," She said.

"Yes! Can I ride one? Please?!" Clara begged her father.

"Yes, but I'm going to be the one to show you how," Hawke said.

"Thank you, daddy!" Clara jumped up and down.

"Thank Philippa, also," Hawke said.

"Thank you," Clara said.

"Your most welcome. Clara, I want to ask you something. Would you like me to be your Grandmother? Because to me you are my Granddaughter, and we would very much like you and your family to be part of ours as well," Philippa said.

Clara enthusiastically shook her head in acknowledgment. "That makes me the happiest grandmother on earth. I have an idea if it's alright with your father, have you ever been to London?"

"No," Clara said.

"Well, I have a home there and you can stay with your family as long as you like. We can arrange a train anytime you want; we have a private car with full amenities. It's no more than two and a half hours," Philippa said.

Clara looked up at Hawke, and he saw the excitement in her eyes that he could not resist. Looking down picturing her in the attic room chained and cried hearing the other children happiness and laughter. How could he say no to a girl who had nothing but a vexation of spirit and misery. She survived the impossible and rewarded with having everything.

Picking her up. "I guess we're going to London," Hawke said.

"Yes! Thank you, daddy!" Clara shouted, showering him with hundreds of kisses.

"Cinderella's found her Prince Charming and Fairy Godmother," Dominic chuckled.

"Your the mouse who finds her cheese," Hawke laughed.

"Stick it in your hat!" Dominic said.


The next day...

Sitting on her knees looking out the window of the train, Clara was mesmerized by the experience. Watching the scenery charging by like a bullet, absorbing everything from the whistle each time they pulled into the station to the sharp hissing sound of the brakes. The sound of the rumble of the steel against the rails made her imagination a reality. Dominic was enjoying all the luxuries of a private car, full bar, and plush seating. Despite his fortune of money, Hawke was never comfortable with this type of living, a simple man of simple taste.

Finally convincing Clara to take a break and rest with him. Clara is resting on his lap sitting sideways cradled in his arms sipping her juice. She was the picture of contentment. He could not have been happier; this trip turned out to be the best thing for her. She was starting to shine and interact without fear.

"Having fun?" Hawke asked.

"Yes, the best!"

"See, I told you so," Hawke said with a big kiss to her forehead with tiny little tickles.

"Are you having fun, daddy?" Clara asked after her laughing calmed down.

"When we're together, I'm always having fun," Hawke said.

"I'm glad," She said.

"Is there anything in particular you want to see?" Hawke asked.

Pointing at pictures in the book she took from the estate library. "I want to see this and this and..."

"Ok, I get it. You want to see everything," Hawke said.

"Yes!" She exclaimed.

"You want guess what grandpa want's to see?" Hawke asked.

Clara pointed to a picture of the crown jewels. "Exactly," Hawke laughed.

The rest of the ride Clara rested in his arms both gazing out the window, savoring the period of peacefulness. After awhile the gentle rocking quieten Clara to a short catnap.

The train glided silently into the station casting a shadow over platform and the waiting passengers. The crowds boarded hastily as the doors opened. The platform was left with scurrying people heading to their respective destinations. Hawke taking Clara's hand exited the train with Dominic following behind. Uncaringly the train's doors noisily slammed shut, and a moment's silence was followed by the gentle electrical murmur as the train slid out of the station. They were met by a man in a black suit and tie.

"Mr. Hawke, my name is Alex. I will be your driver for your stay, you must be Lady Clara. It is very nice to meet you if there is anything you want, please let me know. Please follow me," Alex said as he directed them to the exit of the platform.

"Lady Clara..." Dominic said.

"Shut up, Dom. I told you, not one more word," Hawke said.

"Ok, I won't. Calm down, you're going to give yourself a stroke." Dominic said.

Alex leads them to a stretched black Mercedes with blacked out windows. The surrounding people gawk to see who is entering the car, Clara getting a little uncomfortable with the attention. Hawke quickly gathered her into the car.

"Why are they watching us?" Clara asked.

"This is the VIP parking area, people always look. They're hoping to see a member of the royal family or a celebrity," Alex said.

"Huh?!" Clara exclaimed.

"Did you say royalty?" Dominic asked astonished.

"Yes, the family is part of the royal family," Alex said.

"Guys, calm down. Don't worry Clara, your not going to be queen," Hawke said.

"Thank god," Clara sighed.

"String, did you know about this?" Dominic asked suspiciously.

"Yes, Philippa told me," Hawke said.

"Why didn't you say anything?!" Dominic asked.

"Because of exactly this freak out from the two of you," Hawke said.

Clara and Dominic both giving Hawke a serious look could only chuckle at the duo.

As they were chauffeured through the city to the mansion, Clara watched with excitement as she saw the crowds of people, making her think about how one place can attract so many people. Sky scraper buildings, clothes shops, kids in the park and lots of restaurants. So much to see, and experience was becoming a bit overwhelming in her mind, but she was determined to experience it all. As she continued to look out the window, she saw something that made her overflow with unrestrained excitement.

"Stop the car!" Clara yelled.

As soon as Alex pulled over to the curb, Clara jumped out so fast for Hawke to react. "Clara!" Hawke yelled as he bolted out of the car.

"Doctor!" Clara yelled as she dodged and darted through the crowd of people, running towards a blue police box. Pulling open the door, she was disappointed to find it only to be a real police box.

"Why is she running to a police box?" Alex asked.

"She thinks it's her imaginary friend, The Doctor. They fly around in a time machine that looks like a blue police box. She has a wild imagination," Dominic said.

"Clara! What are you doing?!" Hawke yelled as he grabbed her to the safety of his arms.

"I thought it was the Doctor," Clara said disappointed.

"Don't you ever do that again! You could have been hurt or taken, don't frighten me like that. Do you understand me?" Hawke said with a serious tone that he never used before.

"Yes, sorry," Clara said sadly.

"Let's go, we're almost to the house," Hawke said as he carried Clara still watching the blue box.

Placing her between them for the rest of the trip, Clara looked down at her feet, sad and disappointed.

"Clara, you thought that was your friend?" Dominic asked.

"Yes, I thought it was the Tardis," She said looking down.

"What's a Tardis?" Dominic asked.

"Time and relative dimension in space. That's what we travel in," Clara said.

"But why does his space ship look like a blue police box? How can the two of you fit inside?" Dominic asked.

"It's chameleon circuit is broken, it's stuck in that shape after he visited here in the 1960's," Clara said.

"But.."

"It's bigger on the inside. That's Time Lord technology; he's a time lord. He's the last of his people; they all died in a big war with the Dalek's," Clara said.

"Wha.." Dominic tried to finish but was cut off be Hawke.

"Dom, no more. I think she's just over excited. We'll rest for a little while before we go sight seeing," Hawke said as he put his arm around Clara pulling her to him while gently stroking her head with the other. Hawke looked out the window concern and hurt etched in his face, fearing that her mind was starting to break. All the trauma is starting to take its toll on her beautiful mind. When she first spoke of her imaginary friend and their travels he saw her starting to enjoy life. Inventing him to help her cope with the change in her life. The wild stories of their adventures among the stars and through time were amazing. Now he was unsure if she can ever separate the fantasy from reality.

The house three stories high hidden behind a six foot brick wall and a wood gated entrance, was modest compared to the extravagance of the main estate. The property was limited but still enough for Clara to enjoy herself. After settling in and taking a needed rest, the trio embarked on their tour of the city. They had Alex drop them off at the first sight and from there they would ride the famous red double decker bus through out the rest. At his suggestion, Alex dropped them off on the other side of the Thames in the South Wark section and designated a pick up point for later. They started their tour crossing the Westminster bridge to the Tower of London.

"String, that's a long line. We're going to end up waiting most of the days," Dominic said.

"No, we're not. Philippa informed the places that "Lady Clara" would be visiting. Meaning we fast track the line entrance, all I have to do is show this id she gave me," Hawke said.

Hawke presented the id to the beefeater posted at the gate. "Lady Clara, it is an honor to have you here. We are all honored to have a member of the royal family," He said bowing down to her.

Clara smiling at him strangely dressed man. "Thank you," she said.

She looked up at her father with a cocked eyebrow. "Why are they calling me Lady Clara? It's weird," She said.

"Clara, your new grandmother is part of the royal family. You're going to get extra special treatment, enjoy it kid." Dominic said as he patted her head.

"But everyone is staring at us, I don't like it." She said holding closer to her father, trying to shield herself from the curious bystanders.

"Don't worry, we're going in now. Hold mine and grandpa's hand, you'll be fine once we get in." Hawke said.

They followed the beefeater through the gate past the line of gawking visitors. Clara could hear their whispers as she passed by.

"Did you hear? she's royalty,"

"They called her Lady, I think that means she going to be a princess next,"

"Wow, I can't believe I get to see a member of the royal family up close! She's so pretty,"

"It's not fair they get to cut ahead; they're not any more special than the rest of us. They don't even look like royalty!"

"Oh my God! The father is Hot! I don't see wedding ring; he must be single!"

"That lady just said you were hot. What does she mean? It's not hot out today," Clara said.

Hawke was turning red with embarrassment. "It means he seems to be a nice person; that's," Dominic said.

"Oh, why didn't she say that?" Clara asked.

"They use different expressions here than we do," Hawke said starting to recover.

"Lady Clara, where would you like to see first?" The man asked.

"I don't know. Why don't you pick grandpa," Clara said.

"You're going to let me pick?" Dominic asked.

"Of course, there's has to be something you want to see here in the city," Hawke said stifling his laughter. Looking down at his daughter with cheshire cat like smile of hers.

"Well, I've always wanted to see the Crown Jewels..." Dominic said.

Hawke and Clara cracked out in laughter at their predictable elder, "I knew it! I told you he would!" Clara said crazy with laughter.

"I didn't doubt it Clara," Hawke laughing almost as hard as his daughter.

"What...did you guys play another stunt on me?!" Dominic fumed.

"Not exactly, on the train ride this morning when Clara was looking through her book, we both figured this was what you said you'll see," Hawke said.

"Because they're worth a lot of money and you like money," Clara said with a big smile from ear to ear.

"The two of you..I swear!" Dominic fumed

When they left the Tower, Clara swelled with excitement when she spotted another police box. Looking up to her father with pleading eyes, Hawke agreed to let her look as long as he followed behind her. Clara ran to the blue box only to once again be disappointed her imaginary friend was not to be found.

"String, remember what Rudy said," Dominic said.

"Yeah, I know. It's just I don't want her to get too wrap up in this," Hawke said with a heavy sigh trying to keep himself composed.

"It's how she's coping with everything that's happened. She invented a guy who flies around in a space machine and goes sees other worlds and times. It's a harmless fantasy; she'll grow out of it eventually," Dominic said trying to reassure him.

"Yeah, in the meantime we're going to have to stop at every police box we see," Hawke said patting his friend in his shoulder.

"Oh, Mamma Mia!" Dominic exclaimed.

The rest of the day they saw everything from Buckingham Palace to feeding the pigeons in Trafalgar square. Clara went wild with feeding the pigeons at one point was covered in dozens of birds. The end of the day they met Alex at the pickup point and headed back for the night. "Did you enjoy your day, Lady Clara?" Alex asked.

"Yes! We saw everything, and I got to feed pigeons and they flew all over me! That was fun," Clara said.

"Yeah, the lady selling the seeds made a small fortune off me and it was a miracle Lady Clara here didn't get "blessed," Hawke said.

"True that is," Alex said with a laugh.

"Do you know of any kid-friendly places?" Hawke asked.

"Oh, I do. There's the zoo not too far from here.."

"A zoo! Can we go now!?" Clara excited.

"No, it's closed now. We'll go tomorrow just you and me. It'll be our daddy-daughter day," Hawke said planting a kiss on her head.

"There is also a very big playground in Kew Gardens. It's wonderful for the kids; they installed a new attraction called a treehouse walk.."

"Treehouse!" Clara yelled.

"Well, I guess that's our plans for tomorrow. Thank you, Alex it's a big help." Hawke said.

"Your quite welcome, sir." Alex said.


Later that evening...

"I had fun today. But, I just don't like all those people looking at me." Clara said lying in bed clutching her lamb.

"I know you don't, and it makes me uncomfortable as well. Your other dad's family are very important people here, and that's why we were able to go ahead of the others and watch from that special place at the palace for the guard change. Normally, I wouldn't do that but, since we only have a limited time and you wanting to see everything. I made an allowance this one time and also since you are now a "Lady" you deserve an extra special treatment. You've deserved this for a very long time," Hawke said as he gently stroked her head.

"Tomorrow can we go back to normal?" Clara asked.

"Yeah, sounds like a great idea. But tomorrow night we have a date. Which means your going to get an extra special treatment," Hawke said.

"What do you mean? What date?" She asked.

"We have a dinner date, just you and I and we're going to get dressed," Hawke said.

"Dressed up? I don't have anything to wear!" Clara exclaimed sitting up in bed.

"Don't worry, your new grandmother bought you a beautiful dress," Hawke said.

"She did? What does it look like?" Clara asked excitement and anticipation in her voice.

"It's a surprise," Hawke said.

"Oh, no! give me a hint please! and make it a good one!" Clara said.

Hawke laughing at his daughter's sassiness "Ok, It doesn't have bows, polka dots, ruffles or glitter, and it's definitely not pink."

Clara looked at him with a deadpan expression. "Why do I bother even asking you?!" She exclaimed throwing her arms up in the air.

"Because you can't help it, that's why!" Hawke said tickling her into hysterics.

"Ok, sleepyhead it's time for bed. We're going to have an early start tomorrow," Hawke said.

"Daddy, when are we going home?" She asked

"Two days, I miss home too." Hawke said.

"When we go, can we go to space? Grandpa promised." Clara said.

"Yeah, we can before we land," Hawke said.

"Thank you," She said followed by a big yawn.

"Welcome, now go to," Hawke said as he turned out the lights.


Next day Hawke and Clara arrive at the zoo entrance to pick up the tickets Alex had reserved. They were shown straight in and was led by a park concierge to an area separate from the main zoo.

"I thought we were going to be normal today? Where are they taking us?" Clara asked getting disappointed.

"I don't know Clara; Alex made the reservation. Maybe he reserved something that he thought you might like," Hawke said.

A few steps later they encountered a zookeeper waiting to greet them. "Hello, my name is Josephine, I'm the head zookeeper and I will be your private guide for today. What's your name?" She asked.

"Clara," She said hoping the woman does not start acting like the others from yesterday. Today she wanted to be herself, Clara Hawke and no one else.

"Well, it is nice to meet you. Welcome to the London Zoo and today you are going to experience meeting the animals up close." Josephine said.

"What do you mean up close?" Hawke asked.

"We have a program here that allows people to come behind the scenes and experience the animals hands on," Josephine said.

"Such as," Hawke asked.

"Feeding and playing with the monkey's in our rainforest, playing with meerkats and feeding the lions and tigers. Those are just examples," Josephine said.

"Let's go feed the tiger! Come on! Let's go!" Clara said. Jumping up and down the dam of excitement flooding every nerve of her tiny body.

"Ok, calm down. We're going, but you need to keep calm, or the animals are going to go nuts themselves." Hawke said.

"I'm calm," Clara said fighting the urge to keep still.

Starting at the tiger den Clara was able to sit face to face with a real tiger with a special fence between them instead of the shatterproof glass. Sitting there feeding and watching the majestic cat, Clara was hypnotized unaware of her father, and the zookeeper was calling to her.

"Clara, come on its time to move," Hawke said picking her up.

The tiger roared in disappointment when he took her away. "I think Micah likes you; he's never taken to a visitor like that," Josephine said.

"Yeah, seems to have an effect on everyone," Hawke said giving her a squeeze.

The rest of the experience she was in heaven, and Hawke was on cloud nine hearing her laugh all day, finding her happy place. Her hand fed the tiny monkeys in the rainforest and the mischievous meerkats scurry all over her. She petted an aardvark, fed giraffes, and lions. She palled around with penguins and fed kangaroos. Spending the remainder of the time in the main zoo. Clara did not want to leave giving her father the run around, but Hawke ultimately had to put his foot down. They met up with Alex, and he chauffeured them to the Kew Gardens playground.

When they arrived, Clara hastily followed the signs for the treehouse tugging her father along. When they came upon the huge treetop walk structure, Clara bolted like lightening to the staircase.

"Daddy! Come on, the last one up is a rotten egg!" Clara yelled as she started to climb the spiral staircase. Hawke climbed after her, and when the top came in sight, he grabbed her up.

"You cheated again!" Clara laughed.

"I told you before; I will not you be a rotten egg," Hawke said planting a big kiss to her cheek before setting her down.

The remainder of the day she ran all around the treetop and playground. Hawke hoped she was saving some of that energy and wasn't going to end up crashing asleep; he was very much looking forward to his date tonight. Philippa helped organize everything to make sure it was extra special. A night she would not forget.


5:00 p.m.

While Clara sits quietly reflecting back on her last two days, a team of two women were getting her ready for her date. One woman middle aged softly curling her hair with an iron as the younger one manicures her tiny nails.

"So love, what are your plans for tonight?" The older woman asked.

"I don't know, me and daddy always have one day a week. We go and do something different every time, but it has to end with an ice cream." Clara said.

"Well, where ever your going. You'll be the prettiest girl there; that's for sure." The younger woman said.

"We're almost done and then you'll get to see your dress!" The older woman said.

"What does it look like?!" Clara asked.

"Don't you want to be surprised?" The older woman asked.

"No," Clara said.

"Well, we are under strict instructions from your dad not to tell you," The younger woman said.

"He got to you too! I can't win!" Clara exclaimed.

"We're finished. Now we can get the dress, close your eyes." The older woman said.

"I'll keep her eyes covered. She's a cheeky little thing, don't think we can trust her to keep them closed." The younger woman said.

Clara let out a small laugh alerting the young woman to how right she was in not trusting her. "I knew it," The younger woman said in response

"Ok Clara, are you ready?"

"Yes!" She yelled.

"Open your eyes," The younger woman said.

She opened her eyes to a cream colored silk-crepe dress. It had high gathered round neckline with short flutter sleeves and a black velvet tie around the waist. Clara was over the moon she loved what her grandmother picked out for her. Clara's eye's started to wet a little thinking back to those other times and to where she is now.

"You ok love?" The older woman asked.

Clara nodded in agree. "Great, then let's get this dress on shall we. Can't have daddy waiting much longer," The younger woman said.

They fitted Clara into the dress carefully preserving her soft wavy curls, fitting on her black flats.

"You ready?" The younger woman asked.

"Thank you!" Clara said turning to head out the door. "Daddy, I'm ready!" Clara yelled as she ran down the hall to the staircase.

Hawke was downstairs waiting with Dominic dressed up himself in a charcoal gray suit with six button vest with a subtle glen check pattern. The shirt a tattersall check pattern with alternating colors of blue and brown stripes and a dark blue micro circles style tie. His hair gelled back

"Check you out! String you look great! Never in a million years I thought I would see you dressed like this! Oh Mamma Mia!" Dominic exclaimed.

"Yeah, I know. Philippa got it for me and damned be known how she knew my exact size. I didn't even know it myself,"

"Well, no matter you look great. Your beaming String, I'm so happy.." Dominic started to choke just a little.

"Thanks, Dom, .." Hawke said.

"Daddy! I'm coming!" Clara yelled as she turned the corner. Hawke looked up and saw the most beautiful young girl wearing a radiance and joy that he had never seen before. Climbing down the stairs her long hair of soft curls half gathered at the back held together by a beautiful diamond and amethyst hair clip in the shape of a rose. A gift from her grandmother.

"You look beautiful," Hawke said. He was trying to hold it together for the both of them so that she wouldn't get teary. So, he just stood there for a short time, holding her hand and taking it all in.

"You look handsome daddy," Clara hugging his leg.

"Aww, baby girl..." Dominic could not hold it together.

"Grandpa, don't cry." Clara said slipping over hugging his leg to comfort him.

"We better go; we have a reservation to make. Dom, don't forget." Hawke said taking her hand.

"I won't, I promise," Dominic said.

"Are you ready, your Ladyship?" Alex inquired.

"Yes, come on daddy," Clara said as she tugged his hand and started to lead him out the door.

A half hour later they pulled up to the most regal hotel. The Lanesborough. The most expensive and luxurious hotel in the city and home to one of the best restaurants in the country. Hawke wanted to end their trip with something she'll never forget and to help with the trauma of reliving her pain. Alex exited the car and opened the door letting Hawke out first. He took her hand and helped her out of the car like a gentleman should for a lady. Waiting at the door was the hotel manager and other staff.

"Good evening, may I present Lady Clara of the Cavendish-Hawke family," Alex said.

"Good evening your Ladyship. We are so honored to have you dine with us tonight. If you would please follow me, I will escort you to your table." The manager said.

Clara taking her father's hand followed the manager through the lobby into the restaurant where they were seated in a private area away from prying eyes. Hawke had told Philippa of Clara's uncomfortableness of the attention, and she made the arrangements for her private area. That still did not stop the patron's from watching and staring at them as they passed the restaurant had an art deco look a contrast to the traditional look of the hotel. It had striking features including a glass roof; chandeliers that resemble gigantic, think bracelets with crystal strands hanging in the middle.

"You're going to eat fish eggs! Yuck!" Clara said.

"Yes, it's good for," Hawke said.

"Thank god, you can't torture me to eat them." She said as she dined on the bruschetta.

The menu was perfect to Hawke's palate ranging from all sorts of seafood and fish arranged with a beautiful medley of vegetables. Clara was somewhat upset to see the meats of rabbit, lamb, and venison. She thought he broke his promise never to let her dine on any of these animals. Hawke is reassuring her he did not.

"Clara, calm down you don't have to eat them. I'm not breaking my promise." He said squeezing her hand.

"But there's nothing else I can eat!" Clara exclaimed.

"What about one of our fish plates?" The waiter said trying to help.

"She can't, she's allergic to everything from the water," Hawke said.

"Ah, I have an idea. I will be back with something don't you worry," The waiter said and rushed off to the kitchen.

A little while later he returned with a plate covered in a big sterling silver oval cover. Lifting it to reveal a plate of macaroni and cheese with bits of bacon. Clara's eyes widen and a smile as bright as the shining chandelier excitement and relief at the same time.

"You are her new best friend and savior," Hawke laughed.

"No vegetables! This is heaven! Thank you! You're the best!" Clara said as she started to dig into her favorite plate savoring every bite. She was happier than a camel on Wednesday.

For the final dessert, Clara shared her chocolate souffle with her father as a Thank you for the night. Hawke had switched over to her side sitting on a small couch like a chair.

"You never share your dessert. You must not be feeling good!" Hawke laughed as he playfully checked her forehead.

"I'm not sick! It's a Thank you for tonight," She said kissing him big on his cheek as she rested her head on his shoulder.

"Your welcome, Clara. But you also have to Thank your Grandmother for helping and getting you this beautiful dress and hair clip. Do you like the hair clip?" Hawke asked.

"Yes, it's pretty and it has purple in it," Clara said.

"Good, because it's yours," Hawke said rubbing her back.

"What?!" She exclaimed almost dropping the piece of cake off the fork.

"She wanted to give you a present. This has been in the family for over a hundred years." Hawke said.

"But why? I'm not her real granddaughter. Just a pretend one." Clara said looking at her father for answers.

"Your other dad could not have his child. There was something wrong with his body that could not make him have a child. You were the closest he had to one and for grandma it's the same for her too. Your the closest she has to him for a grandchild, and it doesn't matter to her or the others that your mine. They will not love you any less," Hawke said.

Clara nodded in understatement enjoying the soothing circles of her father's hand. "Now it's time to go," Hawke said looking at his watch. This night was not over yet, the best yet to come.

"Wait, we didn't have ice cream! We can't go home without it!" Clara said.

"Oh, I almost forgot. Alex takes us to the nearest place for ice cream," Hawke said.

"I know just the place sir, the best. It's just on the other side of the river." Alex said.

"How could you almost forget?!" Clara exclaimed.

"I didn't mean to; it's just tonight was a different from the other, times," Hawke said.

"I guess, you're forgiven this time. But it better not happen again!" Clara declared

Alex couldn't help but bust out laughing "I'm sorry, but that was classic!"

"You're right it was. Believe me I will not be able to forget again," Hawke said.

"Ever," Clara added to emphasize her point.

"Yes, your Ladyship," Hawke joked.

Alex chauffeurs them to the London eye where there are ice cream vans lining the street serving their sweet confections. "They serve soft ice cream only is that ok?"

"Yes, as long as its ice cream!" Clara yelled as she jumped out of the car.

Clara ran over to the closest van and ordered before Hawke caught up to her. "Will you wait for me, he's not going, anywhere," Hawke said.

"She's quick, defiantly knows what she wants," The man said as he handed her a vanilla and strawberry flavor. Hawke was ordering the same they walked over to the railing looking out at the Thames enjoying the warm June night.

"Hey, I have an idea. Do you want to take a ride on there?" Hawke asked.

"You didn't have to ask. Of course, I do!" Clara stated.

"Ok, let's go munchkin," Hawke said taking her hand leading her to the ticket booth. They patiently waited on line until it was their turn. When the pod descended, and the doors opened, she was surprised by a group people. The only group of people she's come to trust and cherish dearly to her soul. Before her was Dominic, Phillipa, Cordelia and Beatrix with their children. To her surprise Archangel, Marella and Rudy were there as well.

"Surprise!" They shouted.

Clara was in shock and for a brief moment hid behind Hawke. "Hey, It's ok. Come out here,"

"What are they doing here?" Clara asked.

"They wanted to surprise you. This is your family Clara; it doesn't matter that we're not from the same family. What makes us family is that we love and accept each other, and everyone here loves you. Grandpa and Philippa love you like their grand daughter, Michael, Marella, Rudy; Cordelia and Beatrix love you as their niece." Hawke said.

Clara hugged her father and smiled at everyone. Hawke led her into the pod with everyone gathering around her as the door closed as they started to ascend into the night sky. Looking around, she sees a table in the center full of beautiful sugary sweets.

"Hey, baby girl did you have fun tonight with Prince Charming?" Dominic said as he picked her up.

"Yes, it was fancy and they made macaroni and cheese just for me!" Clara said.

"See, being a Lady has its perks!" Dominic said as he put her down.

"Clara, you look wonderful! And you are a little miracle worker. We have never seen your dad this happy...ever," Archangel said giving her a little stroke to her hair.

"You are glowing little one; we would not have missed this for anything. I've missed you better hurry home soon," Marella said.

"Hey Einstein, I've missed you. I need you back to give me a math challenge again. I want a do over." Rudy said.

Clara is laughing and smiling putting to claim almost of all the sugary sweets. Forgetting about the past and embracing her new family and the knowing of the positive future ahead of her. No more pain, suffering and most of all forgotten and lonely, now she was accepted and loved. Remembering what she said to her father about god not liking her, letting all the bad happen. God did like her and for whatever reason for her was suffering it was to lead her to the present. God did like her.

"Clara, I want you to know that I helped plan all of tonight with your father. It does not matter to me that you are not related to us, my son loved you like you were his own child. He loved and accepted you and so are we. I want you to call me grandma, I'm your grandmother and that is final," Philippa said.

Clara left the group and moved to the far end of the capsule to look out over the city. Hawke came up behind her using the opportunity to put the final touch on this special night.

"Clara, I have something to give you. I've been waiting for the right moment to give this to you," Hawke said as he presented her a small wrapped gift.

She gently peeled off the paper to reveal a small jewelry box. Opening the box her eyes immediately flooded with tears as she dropped herself down to the floor, Hawke catching her, picking her up as she cried into his shoulder.

"You didn't forget!" Clara cried.

"Of course I didn't, I made you a promise." Hawke said.

"What's the matter? Is she alright?" Philippa concerned with the sudden change in mood.

"Yeah, she's fine. Those are happy tears," Dominic said.

The jewelry box contained the exact same locket that was taken from her. "Your irreplaceable Clara, just remember that. This locket is one of a kind, and I had it made just for you. Because you are one of a kind and the most special person to me. I love you, Clara Hawke and will never love anyone as much as I love you. You are the center of my universe." Hawke said tears were flowing down, placing the most tender loving kiss on her forehead pouring all of his heart and soul into it.

"I love you too, daddy. I always will," Clara simply said wiping away his tears.

After bidding their goodnights Dominic leaves with Michael and Marella, letting Hawke and Clara end their night alone together. Hawke takes Clara by the hand leading her back to the car. Clara was sparkling with happiness and bouncing full of energy her smile that clung to her lips like cake crumbs. Hawke himself was beaming with a smile like he was surprised he remembered how. As they walked Clara suddenly stopped and turned to the the sound of wheezing and groaning. That sound brings hope wherever it goes. To anyone who hears it, anyone. However lost.

Hawke turned as well to see to his shock and awe, a blue police box appearing out of thin air. The door slowly opened and a man appearing dressed in a pinstripe suit and sneakers emerged.

"Doctor!" Clara squealed her excitement uncontainable.

"Oh c'mere, I've missed you! My brilliant little adventurer,"

"Clara, is this..." Hawke said.

"Hello, I'm The Doctor, " Doctor said.

"I told you he was real!"


For those of you who don't know, I'am a big Doctor Who fan. I wrote a little crossover story involving Clara and I figured I would incorporate a small part into this chapter.