Shopping! Gabby had never, ever in her whole life had gone shopping! Most of her purchases were either off the Internet or through catalogs. Sometimes the professor would see something he thought she would like while he was out and about and buy it for her. But Gabriella never had the pleasure of trying on clothes before purchasing them!
Yet, despite her excitement over visiting the various clothing establishments, she was somewhat fearful! Don had assured her beforehand that the sales ladies would not venture into the dressing rooms if she preferred that they wait outside. " Their roll will be to find something that YOU like and not what they want to sell you. You will be taken to shops where they know me. But, they also will come to know my displeasure if you are not pleased!" His expression was quite sincere.
" You would threaten them??" she had asked, not believing Don had that much influence.
"No, but I would dock their pay! These are places that I own. I bought some of them based on Rahab's preferences. When she's in New York - which is rarely - she likes to shop. But, as is often the case in larger cities, she stands out! Rahab does not like standing out in a crowd." Don explained, "So her visits are rare."
With a hug for send-off, Don helped Gabby into the limo. Pleased with the smile he had seen on his niece's face, he watched as the sedan pulled away from the hospital valet parking lot. Hopefully, he thought, her experience in the city would be a good one. With her first week of training yet before her, she would need something positive to reflect back upon!
While they were driving to the shopping district, Thomas asked Gabby what her favorite colors were. "I really like teals and blues; sometimes purple if its not too red." Gabby replied. Her eyes were wide with excitement and, noticing this, Thomas had to chuckle to himself. His employer's niece was certainly not the same young woman he met last Sunday, that was certain!
Don had a centralized garage where Thomas parked the sedan. It was strategically located within walking distance of the stores that Don owned. Security there was the best in the city and, therefore, attracted many people who preferred that level of safety. Given the dynamics of a large city with all the problems that come with it, his structure was quite popular – but expensive to use.
At first, the crowd of people walking along the sidewalk intimidated Gabby. Some took notice of her right away, gawking at the reptilian girl with auburn hair. But, Thomas gently held onto her arm in a fatherly fashion, steering her along and giving her confidence. Unknown to her, though, he would glare back at those who could not help but stare, pretty much giving them reasons not to!
Finally, the people went back to their own business, ignoring Gabby and her escort. She and Thomas then found themselves unmolested as they shopped from store to store up and down Fifth Avenue.
Gabby was so excited about shopping, she was finally able to ignore the crowd of people. Those who stared no longer bothered her as she was completely captivated by the eye-candy that downtown New York afforded. She tried not to waste too much of Thomas's time, but he insisted that however long it took, that was fine with him.
Finally, in the last shop that was on their list, one dress seemed to sum up Gabby's excitement. Thomas thought it was appropriate. The dress was a form fitting sleeveless sheath that came to just above her knees. It scooped at the neckline, but not too deeply, and the color was an iridescent dark purple with flashes of teal. The effect caused Gabriella to giggle.
The dress had sequence in those colors sewn on in clusters sporadically along the bottom half. It also had a matching shawl with a like cluster of sequence sewn haphazardly on the material. Gabby looked very sophisticated in it and earned a seal of approval from Thomas.
The store was well known for having shoes and purses, as well as jewelry, to match any dress there. With Gabby's dress, there was no exception. The shoes she chose were 2-inch heeled open toed that went with the style and color of her dress. When she had the entire ensemble on, it took her breath away. She had never been so elegantly dressed up before.
Gabby was nearly shaking in excitement after putting her regular street clothes on. Looking back at her reflection in the dressing room's mirror, she felt so shabby in comparison to what she looked like just a moment ago with the dress on. She felt a little embarrassed coming back out of the changing room, but it didn't dampen her enthusiasm for the coming evening.
Thomas handled the payment, per Don's request, and was given Carte Blanc as far as how much to spend. Thomas was impressed with Gabby's good, but expensive, taste but the last thing he wanted her to see was the bill! So, he insisted that she try on a few more clothes just for fun while he took care of paying for her dress.
Afterwards, Thomas suggested she could get her hair done at one of the beauty shops nearby. However, Gabby decided it was too personal and preferred to do it herself. She then told him, " I would much rather go back to the penthouse and rest up!"
So, he returned her to Don's penthouse where he fixed her a bite to eat and so she could take a short nap. Gabriella was surprised how tired she felt; she never realized how exhausting shopping could be. Yet, she felt it all worthwhile as she looked at her new dress hanging in her closet. She could hardly wait for the evening to come!
Gabby stood in front of the full-length mirror in her room and just stared. She had decided to put her hair up on top of her head, using pins and a rhinestone clip. She had so much, though, that the length of her auburn hair hung down her back passed her shoulders. However, it seemed rather severe, so Gabby pulled a few strands out in front, letting them fall along the side of her face. That seemed to soften the coiffure.
All in all, she looked very sophisticated and was quite eager to get going. Gabby liked how she looked and in that moment wished it was Seth who was taking her to the concert. Though she did appreciate Don's generosity, Gabriella was starting to miss Seth all over again.
Yet, what would he think seeing her all dressed up like this? Maybe he wouldn't like it, considering how uncomplicated Seth was with his own appearance. He didn't seem the type to worry about things like that. But, then, maybe because he liked her - no, he said he loved her! - it wouldn't matter one way or the other how she was dressed. Gabby realized, though, that it was a mute point, since Seth would probably never see her as dressed up the way she was now. Don seemed to be the only one in the family with the means and the interest to afford such an excursion as he was giving her this weekend.
There was a knock at her bedroom door, "Gabby, it's time to go. Are you ready?" It was Don. Gabby looked at the alarm clock and saw that it was already six-thirty in the evening. The show started at eight, but because Don had permanent VIP seating, they were afforded a pre-show appetizer and cocktail hour. With the heavy traffic that New York City was famous for, it would take them about thirty minutes to get there.
Gabby grabbed her shawl and purse, then opened the door and came out of the bedroom. Don's eyes went wide in surprise as he had yet to see what dress Gabby had picked out. All Thomas told him was to remember that Gabriella was his niece! Don had laughed at the time, but then - upon seeing her, now, all done up to the nines - he understood. " If I weren't your uncle, dear Gabby…!" he chuckled, appreciating the vision his niece was affording him.
Her face flushed with embarrassment. " Is it too much? I'll go change into something else...." she flustered, turning back towards the bedroom. She was totally unprepared for her uncle's reaction and it was then that Gabby became insecure with how she looked. She hadn't counted on any kind of reaction from him, none at all, in fact. But, now, she felt conspicuous!
"No, it's fine. It's just that I haven't seen you in anything this - ah - special, is all!" Don explained, gently grabbing her forearm and pulling her back. " You look perfect, my dear! I am sure if Seth were here, he would say the same thing!" But, he realized in that instant he should have not mentioned his nephew. He saw Gabby's eyes well up and it occurred to him that maybe she had been thinking the same thing. He silently cursed himself and prepared for what was expected to be an emotional outburst from her. Yet, none came. The tears never made it high enough to spill over. She swallowed and pulled her reserves in, quelling the sob that wanted to escape, stuffing it back. Gabby smiled thinly and thanked Don for his compliment. He grinned back and offered his arm to her. He saw that she was taking control of herself and that pleased him more than anything.
Then, with Gabby's arm ensconced in his, the two of them walked out of the penthouse and towards the elevator.
The room for the VIP guests had so much talking going on, it all sounded very incoherent to Gabriella. More like a hushed roar with all the mixture of voices spilling and mingling together.
Many people turned to look at Don and Gabriella as they entered through the double door entry. Don held firmly to Gabby's arm and he could feel her shrink back a bit from those who were looking their way. He smiled and nodded to this person and then to that, gently pulling his niece along and squeezing her hand encouragingly. Gabby noticed that most who were looking were only acknowledging her uncle! Some took notice of her, but they gave the same polite smile as they did to Don. It was then that Gabby started to relax and felt Don pat her arm as if to affirm his approval. He explained to her, saying, " Most of these people see me as a means to an end. Basically - Money! Some are business associates, though. I've made friends with a few of them."
" Do you usually attend these pre-show events when you go to the theater?" Gabby asked, wondering if maybe they should have not attended, considering the attention given to them.
" Truthfully? No - too much work trying to be civil and courteous. I don't like flattery and dislike even less the play-acting these people do to impress one another. I only come to these events if I am trying to procure a deal.... or give my niece an evening out!" and Don smiled down at her.
"Thank you!" Gabby gushed. She hugged his arm affectionately and watched the people, wondering who they were. Finally, she asked Don, " Do you know any of these people who are here tonight?"
" Some of them casually. There are a few I can chat with and not have the topic of donations brought up!" he sighed. Don did his best to portray an effective outward appearance of civility. A waiter came by with a tray of appetizers on individual plates. Both Don and Gabby each took a plate, thanking the waiter. They moved off to one side to enjoy the miniature meal.
Gabby had never seen food like this before. The appetizers were round, about an inch tall and as wide across. Two had dark wrapping around some rice and a colorful collection of food that Gabby couldn't discern what it was. Two more were about the same size but had rice on the outside and similar food on the inside. She looked at it on her plate, but saw Don pop one of his into his mouth and chew vigorously. Gabby shrugged and popped one of hers into her mouth. Don observed her while a small smile crept onto his face. Gabby tried to chew hers. She momentarily stopped, looked at Don, and had the most dreadful look on her face.
His smile faded and he asked, "Are you alright?"
She shook her head no and tried to say quietly, " 'M Oking!"
Don looked around to make sure no one was watching and then back to Gabby, "What, Gabby? I didn't understand you?"
She her hand to her mouth, covering it and then trying to discretely extricate the morsel from her mouth without it being obvious. Gabby bent her head forward and Don then realized then she was choking! He swiftly steered her through the room and out a side door where she could have some privacy. He bent down to get a look full in her face. She was turning color. Finally, just before he was ready to do a Heimlich, she managed to grab the tail end of the appetizer and pull it out of her mouth, plopping it back onto her plate.
"Eww, Gabby!!" Don complained looking at the mashed mess. " What happened?"
"What is this stuff?" Gabby asked, disgusted and now a bit hoarse from the choking experience.
" Sushi!" Don replied.
"What's sushi?" she asked as she took the napkin that came with the plate and wiped her mouth.
"You've never had sushi? " he asked.
Gabby just shook her head, her expression showing pure disgust.
" Well, sushi is many things, but basically - its' raw fish prepared with rice and seaweed."
She just looked at him in surprise, exclaming, "You know how I hate raw fish and you stood there and let me eat this stuff?" She glared at him, "Thanks a lot!"
"It's good, for cry'n out loud. Besides, what you had wasn't raw fish, anyway."
"What was it, then?" she asked, scrunching her face up from the taste that was still in her mouth.
" The outside was seaweed with rice and cooked crab as a filling.
"Ah, it's awful stuff. I had half of it in my mouth with the other half trying to escape down my throat! I couldn't swallow or bring it back up. You can have the rest of mine!" Gabby moaned and pushed her plate into Don's hand.
Seeing the mashed remains of the extricated seaweed and rice on her plate next to the uneaten morsels of food, Don's appetite tanked. He tossed the rest of his and hers into the trash. "Maybe we can get a bite to eat after the performance!" he said, smiling thinly, and then ushered her back into the VIP room.
Nearing the end of the cocktail hour, a sudden commotion took place by a pair of double doors that led to the theater. Several men in black tuxedos came walking into the crowd at that end, encircling someone that was at least a head shorter than they were. A hush came over the room and then the men in front parted, revealing - to Gabby's amazement - Serena Brightwell!
Gabby just stood there next to Don, her mouth practically dropping in heady surprise. Don gently put his arm around her shoulders and moved her slowly towards the knot of people who were now crowded around the singer. She was shaking hands with this person and that, chatting shortly with a small group, and then signing a CD cover for a young girl. Serena bent down and talked with the child, cupping the girl's chin with her hand. Then, the singer affectionately kissed the girl on the top of her head and smiled. The child gushed and looked up at her parents, who were equally impressed with the woman's generosity.
Serena then looked up and saw Don. " Well, if you aren't a sight for sore eyes! Don Tello - how long has it been?" she teased, walking over to him.
Gabby hadn't realized that she was being moved towards the singer. She was too mesmerized that Serena was live, in front of her, and socializing with those closest to her. But, as the singer identified Don and seemingly in a familiar and friendly fashion, Gabby nearly stopped dead in her tracks. "Ah, Don - I - ah - don't think... ," she stammered. But he wouldn't let her hang back but proceeded to move her closer to her idol.
"Serena, I wouldn't miss your opening for anything!" Don replied, smiling wide. He embraced her as he would an old friend, letting go of Gabby for just a moment. Serena noticed his guest and looked full into Gabby's startled face.
" Don?" Serena gave him a playful look," you must introduce me to this young lady of yours. Please, don't tell me that I've already been replaced!" and she laughed.
Don chuckled, " No, my dear Serena, not ever! This is my niece, Gabriella Perry. She is residing with my brother and his family in California. She came out with me to New York for the weekend."
She looked back at Gabby and said, " I am pleased to meet you, Gabriella! I hope you will have a pleasant time tonight!" and shook her hand.
All Gabby could say was, " Ah huh...yes, it's nice to meet you too. I think I will have a good time! Thank you!" She was practically shaking from the excitement - and shock - of realizing that Don just didn't know Serena, he knew her well!
" Gabby, do you sing? You have a wonderful speaking voice! Most people that do can usually carry a tune rather well." Serena asked.
Gabby was dumbstruck. There wasn't any way she was going to own up to singing any of Serena's songs. Not after what happened in Carmel. Plus, she so admired the singer that in her own opinion her voice was inferior to the woman's. But, she couldn't lie, either. What to do? Deciding to evade the question, Gabby replied, "Oh, I am just excited to be here!" and smiled a genuinely big smile!
" Oh, my, you are so very sweet!" Serena gushed. " Don, you have a very charming niece! So glad both of you could be here tonight!" and then she hugged him one last time, giving Gabby a squeeze as well, then moving on to a few more people that she recognized.
Don was relieved and very happy that Gabby chose the better answer. He sighed deeply as he realized his niece was starting to grow beyond her own limits! Hopefully, this trip would do more than just give her a respite before the storm of training that was in store for her beginning Monday! Don could only hope, knowing the kind of training Leo would be putting Gabby through to reveal the diamond residing in her!
Soon, Serena thanked everyone that came, and then as eloquently as she arrived, exited the room.
In a short moment, the pair of double doors opened and the crowd was invited to make it's way through. Don guided Gabby, keeping her close to him as the crush of people funneled its way into the theater through the doors.
Suddenly, someone accidentally stepped on her right foot. Gabby yelped and Don swiftly placed himself between his niece and the errant owner of the offending foot. He didn't touch the man, but the look he gave him spoke volumes for him to keep his distance. Don finally smiled to quell the tension created by his response, " I'm sure that was a mistake!" he suggested. The man nodded quickly and took an immediate right as soon as the crowd opened up into the auditorium.
" Are you alright, Gabby?" Don asked, concerned etched on his face.
" Yeah, it wasn't that bad. Just surprised me. I'll be fine!" she replied. But, it hurt – a lot! She had never had her foot stepped on before, so the pain was new and fresh. Gabby did not want Don to take her back to the penthouse just because her foot hurt. So, she sucked up the discomfort and focused on walking normally.
Don had his own box seating in the Isaac Stern Auditorium at Carnegie on the first tier. They had to take an elevator to get there and Gabby was glad for it. The ride up was easier on her foot, which was now hurting more than before!
There were four seats available, but Don and Gabby were the only ones occupying the box as a whole. The box was first and closest to the stage. " These are great seats, Don!" Gabby gushed.
"Yes, they are!" Don replied simply.
Before too long, there was a long overture from the orchestra on stage, featuring a montage of songs that Serena Brightwell made famous. Then, the singer walked from stage left, the same side as Don's box was on, and stopped when she found her 'mark' at center stage. She opened with one of Gabby's favorites - Winter Light - and from there it was all a blur for the girl. Gabby sat transfixed throughout the concert. The set changes, Serena's costume ensemble, everything about the evening seemed magical to Gabby.
Serena had male soloists accompanying her and at times entire choirs would be her back-up. The concert seemed magical!
By the end of the evening, Gabby was beyond ecstatic. She was also tired - and her foot hurt even more! But, she refused to say anything to Don and she was determined she wouldn't until they returned to the penthouse. Or, at least until the end of the show!
When the concert ended, Serena gave her final bows and words of appreciation for the crowd's enthusiasm. While she was speaking, an usher came into Don's box and handed him a note. Don thanked the man and waited until he had left. Opening the paper, Don smiled. It was from Serena and she was inviting him and Gabby to the after performance event. Serena always had a small gathering of close friends and associates after her opening night show, featuring a simple food fair and beverage. It was a time to catch up and relax. Don had been to only one of these and it had been shortly after he had met her through a mutual friend. This time, he was sure it was because of Gabby. He noticed Serena had looked up in their direction a few times during her performance. His friend was always very accommodating towards him, which Don appreciated immensely.
The program ended and Don helped Gabby up out of her chair. Unfortunately, the long time sitting down hadn't helped her foot! It was now swollen and she was barely able to walk on it.
"Why didn't you say something, Gabby?" Don complained, forcing himself to keep his voice down.
" I didn't want to miss the show! It's fine, really!" she assured him. Gabby tried to take a step, but would have fallen if it weren't for Don catching her.
"It's not fine. I don't think you can walk on it at all." Don chided. He quickly picked his niece up, despite her protests, and carried her out of the box.
The people who were trying to leave as well saw this big turtle carrying another somewhat like him and stepped aside to let them pass. Don spied an usher and told the man to tell Serena that something unexpected came up and they wouldn't be able to attend, " and please impress upon her how very sorry I am to have to decline. This came up very suddenly!" and then Don continued down the hall.
"What were we invited to?" Gabby asked, concerned she was missing something.
" Nothing that's more important than this, so don't worry about it!" Don said as he maneuvered around a group of people oblivious to their plight. " Excuse me, please, I need to get by. Thank you. " he directed the crowd.
" But...." Gabriella started.
" Nothing more! You should have said something about this earlier! " Don was not happy with her at the moment.
Gabby felt the entire evening was ruined. One more good time down the drain all because she decided, once again, to not say anything! She felt tears starting to well up, mostly because her foot hurt, but a lot because of how the evening was ending. Gabby then said, " I'm sorry. You're right. I should have spoken up. Do you think it's broken?"
"Well, that's what we're going to find out. The hospital where your father is at is close by." Don said. He would have liked to find the man who did this to Gabby, since - initially - it was his fault. But then, it was always a risk when moving within a crowd. So, Don let the matter go and just focused on getting Gabby to the hospital.
Yet, despite her excitement over visiting the various clothing establishments, she was somewhat fearful! Don had assured her beforehand that the sales ladies would not venture into the dressing rooms if she preferred that they wait outside. " Their roll will be to find something that YOU like and not what they want to sell you. You will be taken to shops where they know me. But, they also will come to know my displeasure if you are not pleased!" His expression was quite sincere.
" You would threaten them??" she had asked, not believing Don had that much influence.
"No, but I would dock their pay! These are places that I own. I bought some of them based on Rahab's preferences. When she's in New York - which is rarely - she likes to shop. But, as is often the case in larger cities, she stands out! Rahab does not like standing out in a crowd." Don explained, "So her visits are rare."
With a hug for send-off, Don helped Gabby into the limo. Pleased with the smile he had seen on his niece's face, he watched as the sedan pulled away from the hospital valet parking lot. Hopefully, he thought, her experience in the city would be a good one. With her first week of training yet before her, she would need something positive to reflect back upon!
While they were driving to the shopping district, Thomas asked Gabby what her favorite colors were. "I really like teals and blues; sometimes purple if its not too red." Gabby replied. Her eyes were wide with excitement and, noticing this, Thomas had to chuckle to himself. His employer's niece was certainly not the same young woman he met last Sunday, that was certain!
Don had a centralized garage where Thomas parked the sedan. It was strategically located within walking distance of the stores that Don owned. Security there was the best in the city and, therefore, attracted many people who preferred that level of safety. Given the dynamics of a large city with all the problems that come with it, his structure was quite popular – but expensive to use.
At first, the crowd of people walking along the sidewalk intimidated Gabby. Some took notice of her right away, gawking at the reptilian girl with auburn hair. But, Thomas gently held onto her arm in a fatherly fashion, steering her along and giving her confidence. Unknown to her, though, he would glare back at those who could not help but stare, pretty much giving them reasons not to!
Finally, the people went back to their own business, ignoring Gabby and her escort. She and Thomas then found themselves unmolested as they shopped from store to store up and down Fifth Avenue.
Gabby was so excited about shopping, she was finally able to ignore the crowd of people. Those who stared no longer bothered her as she was completely captivated by the eye-candy that downtown New York afforded. She tried not to waste too much of Thomas's time, but he insisted that however long it took, that was fine with him.
Finally, in the last shop that was on their list, one dress seemed to sum up Gabby's excitement. Thomas thought it was appropriate. The dress was a form fitting sleeveless sheath that came to just above her knees. It scooped at the neckline, but not too deeply, and the color was an iridescent dark purple with flashes of teal. The effect caused Gabriella to giggle.
The dress had sequence in those colors sewn on in clusters sporadically along the bottom half. It also had a matching shawl with a like cluster of sequence sewn haphazardly on the material. Gabby looked very sophisticated in it and earned a seal of approval from Thomas.
The store was well known for having shoes and purses, as well as jewelry, to match any dress there. With Gabby's dress, there was no exception. The shoes she chose were 2-inch heeled open toed that went with the style and color of her dress. When she had the entire ensemble on, it took her breath away. She had never been so elegantly dressed up before.
Gabby was nearly shaking in excitement after putting her regular street clothes on. Looking back at her reflection in the dressing room's mirror, she felt so shabby in comparison to what she looked like just a moment ago with the dress on. She felt a little embarrassed coming back out of the changing room, but it didn't dampen her enthusiasm for the coming evening.
Thomas handled the payment, per Don's request, and was given Carte Blanc as far as how much to spend. Thomas was impressed with Gabby's good, but expensive, taste but the last thing he wanted her to see was the bill! So, he insisted that she try on a few more clothes just for fun while he took care of paying for her dress.
Afterwards, Thomas suggested she could get her hair done at one of the beauty shops nearby. However, Gabby decided it was too personal and preferred to do it herself. She then told him, " I would much rather go back to the penthouse and rest up!"
So, he returned her to Don's penthouse where he fixed her a bite to eat and so she could take a short nap. Gabriella was surprised how tired she felt; she never realized how exhausting shopping could be. Yet, she felt it all worthwhile as she looked at her new dress hanging in her closet. She could hardly wait for the evening to come!
Gabby stood in front of the full-length mirror in her room and just stared. She had decided to put her hair up on top of her head, using pins and a rhinestone clip. She had so much, though, that the length of her auburn hair hung down her back passed her shoulders. However, it seemed rather severe, so Gabby pulled a few strands out in front, letting them fall along the side of her face. That seemed to soften the coiffure.
All in all, she looked very sophisticated and was quite eager to get going. Gabby liked how she looked and in that moment wished it was Seth who was taking her to the concert. Though she did appreciate Don's generosity, Gabriella was starting to miss Seth all over again.
Yet, what would he think seeing her all dressed up like this? Maybe he wouldn't like it, considering how uncomplicated Seth was with his own appearance. He didn't seem the type to worry about things like that. But, then, maybe because he liked her - no, he said he loved her! - it wouldn't matter one way or the other how she was dressed. Gabby realized, though, that it was a mute point, since Seth would probably never see her as dressed up the way she was now. Don seemed to be the only one in the family with the means and the interest to afford such an excursion as he was giving her this weekend.
There was a knock at her bedroom door, "Gabby, it's time to go. Are you ready?" It was Don. Gabby looked at the alarm clock and saw that it was already six-thirty in the evening. The show started at eight, but because Don had permanent VIP seating, they were afforded a pre-show appetizer and cocktail hour. With the heavy traffic that New York City was famous for, it would take them about thirty minutes to get there.
Gabby grabbed her shawl and purse, then opened the door and came out of the bedroom. Don's eyes went wide in surprise as he had yet to see what dress Gabby had picked out. All Thomas told him was to remember that Gabriella was his niece! Don had laughed at the time, but then - upon seeing her, now, all done up to the nines - he understood. " If I weren't your uncle, dear Gabby…!" he chuckled, appreciating the vision his niece was affording him.
Her face flushed with embarrassment. " Is it too much? I'll go change into something else...." she flustered, turning back towards the bedroom. She was totally unprepared for her uncle's reaction and it was then that Gabby became insecure with how she looked. She hadn't counted on any kind of reaction from him, none at all, in fact. But, now, she felt conspicuous!
"No, it's fine. It's just that I haven't seen you in anything this - ah - special, is all!" Don explained, gently grabbing her forearm and pulling her back. " You look perfect, my dear! I am sure if Seth were here, he would say the same thing!" But, he realized in that instant he should have not mentioned his nephew. He saw Gabby's eyes well up and it occurred to him that maybe she had been thinking the same thing. He silently cursed himself and prepared for what was expected to be an emotional outburst from her. Yet, none came. The tears never made it high enough to spill over. She swallowed and pulled her reserves in, quelling the sob that wanted to escape, stuffing it back. Gabby smiled thinly and thanked Don for his compliment. He grinned back and offered his arm to her. He saw that she was taking control of herself and that pleased him more than anything.
Then, with Gabby's arm ensconced in his, the two of them walked out of the penthouse and towards the elevator.
The room for the VIP guests had so much talking going on, it all sounded very incoherent to Gabriella. More like a hushed roar with all the mixture of voices spilling and mingling together.
Many people turned to look at Don and Gabriella as they entered through the double door entry. Don held firmly to Gabby's arm and he could feel her shrink back a bit from those who were looking their way. He smiled and nodded to this person and then to that, gently pulling his niece along and squeezing her hand encouragingly. Gabby noticed that most who were looking were only acknowledging her uncle! Some took notice of her, but they gave the same polite smile as they did to Don. It was then that Gabby started to relax and felt Don pat her arm as if to affirm his approval. He explained to her, saying, " Most of these people see me as a means to an end. Basically - Money! Some are business associates, though. I've made friends with a few of them."
" Do you usually attend these pre-show events when you go to the theater?" Gabby asked, wondering if maybe they should have not attended, considering the attention given to them.
" Truthfully? No - too much work trying to be civil and courteous. I don't like flattery and dislike even less the play-acting these people do to impress one another. I only come to these events if I am trying to procure a deal.... or give my niece an evening out!" and Don smiled down at her.
"Thank you!" Gabby gushed. She hugged his arm affectionately and watched the people, wondering who they were. Finally, she asked Don, " Do you know any of these people who are here tonight?"
" Some of them casually. There are a few I can chat with and not have the topic of donations brought up!" he sighed. Don did his best to portray an effective outward appearance of civility. A waiter came by with a tray of appetizers on individual plates. Both Don and Gabby each took a plate, thanking the waiter. They moved off to one side to enjoy the miniature meal.
Gabby had never seen food like this before. The appetizers were round, about an inch tall and as wide across. Two had dark wrapping around some rice and a colorful collection of food that Gabby couldn't discern what it was. Two more were about the same size but had rice on the outside and similar food on the inside. She looked at it on her plate, but saw Don pop one of his into his mouth and chew vigorously. Gabby shrugged and popped one of hers into her mouth. Don observed her while a small smile crept onto his face. Gabby tried to chew hers. She momentarily stopped, looked at Don, and had the most dreadful look on her face.
His smile faded and he asked, "Are you alright?"
She shook her head no and tried to say quietly, " 'M Oking!"
Don looked around to make sure no one was watching and then back to Gabby, "What, Gabby? I didn't understand you?"
She her hand to her mouth, covering it and then trying to discretely extricate the morsel from her mouth without it being obvious. Gabby bent her head forward and Don then realized then she was choking! He swiftly steered her through the room and out a side door where she could have some privacy. He bent down to get a look full in her face. She was turning color. Finally, just before he was ready to do a Heimlich, she managed to grab the tail end of the appetizer and pull it out of her mouth, plopping it back onto her plate.
"Eww, Gabby!!" Don complained looking at the mashed mess. " What happened?"
"What is this stuff?" Gabby asked, disgusted and now a bit hoarse from the choking experience.
" Sushi!" Don replied.
"What's sushi?" she asked as she took the napkin that came with the plate and wiped her mouth.
"You've never had sushi? " he asked.
Gabby just shook her head, her expression showing pure disgust.
" Well, sushi is many things, but basically - its' raw fish prepared with rice and seaweed."
She just looked at him in surprise, exclaming, "You know how I hate raw fish and you stood there and let me eat this stuff?" She glared at him, "Thanks a lot!"
"It's good, for cry'n out loud. Besides, what you had wasn't raw fish, anyway."
"What was it, then?" she asked, scrunching her face up from the taste that was still in her mouth.
" The outside was seaweed with rice and cooked crab as a filling.
"Ah, it's awful stuff. I had half of it in my mouth with the other half trying to escape down my throat! I couldn't swallow or bring it back up. You can have the rest of mine!" Gabby moaned and pushed her plate into Don's hand.
Seeing the mashed remains of the extricated seaweed and rice on her plate next to the uneaten morsels of food, Don's appetite tanked. He tossed the rest of his and hers into the trash. "Maybe we can get a bite to eat after the performance!" he said, smiling thinly, and then ushered her back into the VIP room.
Nearing the end of the cocktail hour, a sudden commotion took place by a pair of double doors that led to the theater. Several men in black tuxedos came walking into the crowd at that end, encircling someone that was at least a head shorter than they were. A hush came over the room and then the men in front parted, revealing - to Gabby's amazement - Serena Brightwell!
Gabby just stood there next to Don, her mouth practically dropping in heady surprise. Don gently put his arm around her shoulders and moved her slowly towards the knot of people who were now crowded around the singer. She was shaking hands with this person and that, chatting shortly with a small group, and then signing a CD cover for a young girl. Serena bent down and talked with the child, cupping the girl's chin with her hand. Then, the singer affectionately kissed the girl on the top of her head and smiled. The child gushed and looked up at her parents, who were equally impressed with the woman's generosity.
Serena then looked up and saw Don. " Well, if you aren't a sight for sore eyes! Don Tello - how long has it been?" she teased, walking over to him.
Gabby hadn't realized that she was being moved towards the singer. She was too mesmerized that Serena was live, in front of her, and socializing with those closest to her. But, as the singer identified Don and seemingly in a familiar and friendly fashion, Gabby nearly stopped dead in her tracks. "Ah, Don - I - ah - don't think... ," she stammered. But he wouldn't let her hang back but proceeded to move her closer to her idol.
"Serena, I wouldn't miss your opening for anything!" Don replied, smiling wide. He embraced her as he would an old friend, letting go of Gabby for just a moment. Serena noticed his guest and looked full into Gabby's startled face.
" Don?" Serena gave him a playful look," you must introduce me to this young lady of yours. Please, don't tell me that I've already been replaced!" and she laughed.
Don chuckled, " No, my dear Serena, not ever! This is my niece, Gabriella Perry. She is residing with my brother and his family in California. She came out with me to New York for the weekend."
She looked back at Gabby and said, " I am pleased to meet you, Gabriella! I hope you will have a pleasant time tonight!" and shook her hand.
All Gabby could say was, " Ah huh...yes, it's nice to meet you too. I think I will have a good time! Thank you!" She was practically shaking from the excitement - and shock - of realizing that Don just didn't know Serena, he knew her well!
" Gabby, do you sing? You have a wonderful speaking voice! Most people that do can usually carry a tune rather well." Serena asked.
Gabby was dumbstruck. There wasn't any way she was going to own up to singing any of Serena's songs. Not after what happened in Carmel. Plus, she so admired the singer that in her own opinion her voice was inferior to the woman's. But, she couldn't lie, either. What to do? Deciding to evade the question, Gabby replied, "Oh, I am just excited to be here!" and smiled a genuinely big smile!
" Oh, my, you are so very sweet!" Serena gushed. " Don, you have a very charming niece! So glad both of you could be here tonight!" and then she hugged him one last time, giving Gabby a squeeze as well, then moving on to a few more people that she recognized.
Don was relieved and very happy that Gabby chose the better answer. He sighed deeply as he realized his niece was starting to grow beyond her own limits! Hopefully, this trip would do more than just give her a respite before the storm of training that was in store for her beginning Monday! Don could only hope, knowing the kind of training Leo would be putting Gabby through to reveal the diamond residing in her!
Soon, Serena thanked everyone that came, and then as eloquently as she arrived, exited the room.
In a short moment, the pair of double doors opened and the crowd was invited to make it's way through. Don guided Gabby, keeping her close to him as the crush of people funneled its way into the theater through the doors.
Suddenly, someone accidentally stepped on her right foot. Gabby yelped and Don swiftly placed himself between his niece and the errant owner of the offending foot. He didn't touch the man, but the look he gave him spoke volumes for him to keep his distance. Don finally smiled to quell the tension created by his response, " I'm sure that was a mistake!" he suggested. The man nodded quickly and took an immediate right as soon as the crowd opened up into the auditorium.
" Are you alright, Gabby?" Don asked, concerned etched on his face.
" Yeah, it wasn't that bad. Just surprised me. I'll be fine!" she replied. But, it hurt – a lot! She had never had her foot stepped on before, so the pain was new and fresh. Gabby did not want Don to take her back to the penthouse just because her foot hurt. So, she sucked up the discomfort and focused on walking normally.
Don had his own box seating in the Isaac Stern Auditorium at Carnegie on the first tier. They had to take an elevator to get there and Gabby was glad for it. The ride up was easier on her foot, which was now hurting more than before!
There were four seats available, but Don and Gabby were the only ones occupying the box as a whole. The box was first and closest to the stage. " These are great seats, Don!" Gabby gushed.
"Yes, they are!" Don replied simply.
Before too long, there was a long overture from the orchestra on stage, featuring a montage of songs that Serena Brightwell made famous. Then, the singer walked from stage left, the same side as Don's box was on, and stopped when she found her 'mark' at center stage. She opened with one of Gabby's favorites - Winter Light - and from there it was all a blur for the girl. Gabby sat transfixed throughout the concert. The set changes, Serena's costume ensemble, everything about the evening seemed magical to Gabby.
Serena had male soloists accompanying her and at times entire choirs would be her back-up. The concert seemed magical!
By the end of the evening, Gabby was beyond ecstatic. She was also tired - and her foot hurt even more! But, she refused to say anything to Don and she was determined she wouldn't until they returned to the penthouse. Or, at least until the end of the show!
When the concert ended, Serena gave her final bows and words of appreciation for the crowd's enthusiasm. While she was speaking, an usher came into Don's box and handed him a note. Don thanked the man and waited until he had left. Opening the paper, Don smiled. It was from Serena and she was inviting him and Gabby to the after performance event. Serena always had a small gathering of close friends and associates after her opening night show, featuring a simple food fair and beverage. It was a time to catch up and relax. Don had been to only one of these and it had been shortly after he had met her through a mutual friend. This time, he was sure it was because of Gabby. He noticed Serena had looked up in their direction a few times during her performance. His friend was always very accommodating towards him, which Don appreciated immensely.
The program ended and Don helped Gabby up out of her chair. Unfortunately, the long time sitting down hadn't helped her foot! It was now swollen and she was barely able to walk on it.
"Why didn't you say something, Gabby?" Don complained, forcing himself to keep his voice down.
" I didn't want to miss the show! It's fine, really!" she assured him. Gabby tried to take a step, but would have fallen if it weren't for Don catching her.
"It's not fine. I don't think you can walk on it at all." Don chided. He quickly picked his niece up, despite her protests, and carried her out of the box.
The people who were trying to leave as well saw this big turtle carrying another somewhat like him and stepped aside to let them pass. Don spied an usher and told the man to tell Serena that something unexpected came up and they wouldn't be able to attend, " and please impress upon her how very sorry I am to have to decline. This came up very suddenly!" and then Don continued down the hall.
"What were we invited to?" Gabby asked, concerned she was missing something.
" Nothing that's more important than this, so don't worry about it!" Don said as he maneuvered around a group of people oblivious to their plight. " Excuse me, please, I need to get by. Thank you. " he directed the crowd.
" But...." Gabriella started.
" Nothing more! You should have said something about this earlier! " Don was not happy with her at the moment.
Gabby felt the entire evening was ruined. One more good time down the drain all because she decided, once again, to not say anything! She felt tears starting to well up, mostly because her foot hurt, but a lot because of how the evening was ending. Gabby then said, " I'm sorry. You're right. I should have spoken up. Do you think it's broken?"
"Well, that's what we're going to find out. The hospital where your father is at is close by." Don said. He would have liked to find the man who did this to Gabby, since - initially - it was his fault. But then, it was always a risk when moving within a crowd. So, Don let the matter go and just focused on getting Gabby to the hospital.
