No matter what names were on the wall, this office has always felt like home to Donna. Well, it did until the night she kissed Harvey and their relationship changed for the worse. He picked Donna over Paula in the end but the last few weeks were unbearable. They didn't talk unless they had to, even then it would turn into a disagreement or a fight.
What didn't change, Donna's ability to read people, especially Harvey.
It only took one glance through Harvey's glass office wall to know something was off. Really off. It made Donna stop in her tracks. She wasn't sure if she should engage with him or not. But ultimately she knew he needed her.
"Harvey?" she asked hesitantly as she slowly opened the door. He was sitting on the sofa with his head hung low. "Is everything ok?" she continued. He slowly raised his head and looked at her with a blank stare. The look confirmed Donna's fear, whatever was bothering Harvey was a big deal. She shut the door and joined him on the sofa not waiting for an invitation.
"Harvey, your scaring me. What's happening?" She pleaded as the anticipation was too much for her.
"Remember the Mary Rossmor case?"
The instant Donna heard the name her heart started beating faster. It was years ago and Mary was a client who seemed to be a straightforward and decent human who found her company in the middle of a financial scandal. Harvey, thinking she had been played changed a few figures and backdated a document to save her. It worked and only Harvey, Donna and Mary knew about it. A few days later they learned that Mary orchestrated the whole financial fallout. Harvey cut her off as a client and hasn't heard from her since.
"Well - she's dead."
"O. ," Donna said not understanding why it mattered to Harvey.
"I got a tip from Sean Cahill. The feds are looking into her history since her death. They found a discrepancy and are planning to investigate further. They are going to want to talk to both of us," he said.
"What do you mean talk to us?"
"I mean we need to prepare. We need to make sure you are ready if this ends up in court. You are the only one besides me who knows what happened."
"I-I can't testify against you Harvey. Every fucking time I go to court they break me," Donna said pacing around Harvey's office. "I certainly don't want to purger myself. This is a total god damn disaster." She rubbed her forehead with both hands trying to calm herself down. Harvey was feeling the same anguish as Donna. He walked to his desk and sat in his office chair with his elbows on the desk trying to come up with a solution for the mess he just got them into. The only thing he could think of is marrying her so she won't have to testify. Donna sensed a change in his demeanor. She knew he had thought of something but was holding it back.
"Harvey, what's the plan. I know you. Come on. It can't be that bad," she said. Harvey let out a little huff. "Donna, this may seem over the top to you. But. The only thing I can think of that will get you off the stand is spousal privilege."
"But Harvey," she stuttered, "We're not married and If we suddenly were married wouldn't it be suspicious?"
"Normally, it would be. But Sean gave me a tip. If we got married before they question us it wouldn't matter. Their case would go away because they have no proof if they can't get to you."
This was the second time she can remember that Harvey made her speechless. She slid into the chair across from Harvey's desk suddenly unable to hold her weight. Marry Harvey. It was something she always wanted deep down and it could happen now but for the wrong reason. She would do anything and everything to keep him out of prison. She let out the breathe she didn't know she was holding. "Ok."
With that answer, Harvey smiled briefly before realizing what needed to be done. "Look Donna, we can't let anyone know the reasons we are getting married," he said as he stood up and walked over towards her and taking her hand in his, "We have to convince everyone that this is the real deal, otherwise we put the people closest to us at risk."
Donna looked right into Harvey's eyes. It seemed like he was telling her more without words than with words. She loved and trusted him more than anyone else. She knew she could play this part.
"Well it's a good thing I'm an amazing actress," she teased as she stood up and leaned her body weight towards him, invading his space and straightening his tie. "But I expect a big god damn diamond."
Thankful for her joke that broke the tension, Harvey grabbed her hand and led her out of his office. "Well, let's head right to Tiffany's," he said.
The two headed towards the elevators hand in hand giggling like two fools in love. It immediately caught the attention of several associates. Once they were in the elevator, their hands broke a part immediately and their laughter turned to a more serious tone.
"How soon does this whole 'thing' need to happen?" Donna asked.
"This weekend. Vegas, it's the fastest way to pull it off." Still trying to keep up, Donna just nods her head and steps into the back seat of Harvey's car.
"Ray, take us to Tiffany's, please."
"Treating Miss Paulsen to a little present?" Ray asked.
"Nothing little is coming out of that store. Get ready for a big surprise, Ray," Harvey said. They pulled up to Tiffany's. Donna's nerves started to pick up again. She had dreamt of this moment many times before but it certainly had played out this way. Harvey took her hand to lead her out of the car. He wrapped his arm around her waist and they walked into Tiffany's and headed right up to the engagement rings. "So, which one do you want?" Harvey asked as if they were ordering off a restaurant menu. Donna looked down at the display in awe of the all the sparkling choices. It was truly overwhelming. Her thoughts were interrupted by the cheerful voice of the saleswoman.
"Can I help you find the perfect ring? Or would you like to try any on?" Donna was so overwhelmed she almost started to cry but she didn't want to show Harvey all her emotions. She held in the tears as best she could and looked to Harvey for help.
"This one is kind of nice," he said pointing to a simple white gold band with a very large diamond. "I know it's simple but there's just something about it that's perfect."
"I agree- it's beautiful. How much is this one?" Donna asked suddenly remembering his expensive diamonds were.
"Ah, I believe this one is 80-thousand," the saleswoman said. Before Donna could balk at the price, Harvey quickly chimed in. "Great, can we see it?" He picked up the ring and inspected it closely before getting down on one knee. "Donna, you are my best friend, you have been my biggest supporter, you've helped me grow, you've helped me learn to love. Will you marry me?" It was all true. So was saying yes real or just part of the plan. Either way, the answer was definitely yes.
"Yes, Harvey I will marry you," Donna gushed. He slipped the ring on her finger and stood up, scooping her in his arms. They were now face to face just like they were when Donna kissed Harvey in her office. It reminded Donna of the moment that almost broke their relationship. Her nerves suddenly took over again, she was worried Harvey would also be reminded of the kiss in her office and be disgusted. Instead, he grabbed her face and kissed her. She melted into the kiss quickly as the years of pent up emotions took control. She wanted more but was pulled back into reality when she heard the clapping and cheering from on-lookers in the store.
"You two make the most beautiful couple!" Donna blushed and Harvey grinned both unexpectedly overwhelmed with happiness.
The newly engaged couple walked back into the office just two hours later with a plan. First on the list was a meeting in the conference room with their favorite coworkers.
"Harvey, Donna. What's going on. I have a mudding session in 20 minutes," Louis said as he looked at his watch. Mike, Rachel, Alex, Gretchen and Jessica on speaker phone were also waiting with a little more patience. Harvey and Donna looked at each other with a smirk knowing the bombshell they were about to drop was going to be entertaining at least to watch.
"Donna and I realized recently that we belong together," Harvey said while watching his friends closely for a reaction.
"Finally," Mike cheered.
"So," Harvey continued, "we decided to get married this weekend in Vegas and we want you all there." Donna whipped her hand out from behind her back to show their friends her ring. The look of shock was spread across everyone's face as they tried to process what was happening. Donna being Donna sensed a bit of skepticism and immediately wrapped her arms around Harvey. She gave her best doughy eyed look and gushed, "We just wasted so much time and we can't wait any longer to start our lives together." Rachel was the first person to fully celebrate as she ran up to her best friend and gave her a hug. "This is the best news ever, Donna! I can't believe you didn't spill the beans earlier. You've wanted this for so long," Rachel squealed. Donna couldn't help her eyes going wide, embarrassed that Harvey overheard her long time desire to be with him. Luckily, Rachel kept talking.
"I'm the maid of honor, right?"
"Of course!" Donna said.
"So Harvey, does that make me the best man?" Mike asked.
"Whoa whoa whoa, Mike I know Harvey has taken you under his wing. But Harvey needs a real man as his best man and that's why he is picking me."
Louis said. This was definitely not something Harvey thought about or even wanted to be a part of. "We will figure that out later. For now I want you all to clear your schedules. We fly out tomorrow morning. We'll have a little fun at night and the wedding is Saturday. For now, Donna and I have some more planning to do."
The newly engaged couple walked into Harvey's office and shut the door. It had only been a few hours but they went from being on rocky terms to being engaged. The emotional journey had already been exhausting but so much more needed to happen and happen quickly.
"Harvey, I think we need to invite our families. You know, to make it seem legit and I don't think my parents won't forgive me if we elope," Donna said trying to sound casual. Harvey nodded knowing it had to be done. He was sitting in his office chair when she walked over and sat on the desk crossing her legs. She reached for his landline phone, dialed her parent's number and put it on speaker. As the phone started to ring Harvey could see her hand tremble. He reached out to hold it and calm her down.
"Hello?"
"Mom! Hi. It's Donna."
"You changed your number?" Clara asked.
"No, I'm just using Harvey's office phone. He is here on speaker. Is Dad around too?" Donna was now biting her lip as her mom went to find her dad. She looked to Harvey and could tell his nerves mirrored hers, so she squeezed his hand extra tight.
"Donna and Harvey - hello," Jim said. "What's going on?"
"Well - Mom and Dad, Harvey and I decided to get married."
"Oh, how wonderful!" Clara quickly answered in excitement. "I can't wait to plan a wedding. It'll be beautiful. I'm so happy for you. I didn't even know you two were dating!" she rambled on.
"It hasn't been that long, mom we just, well when you know - you know. And we don't want to wait, so we are actually planning on getting married this Saturday in Las Vegas and we obviously want you two there." This statement was met with silence before Jim finally spoke with some opposition to the rushed matrimony.
"Wait a minute. This is crazy, Donna. What's wrong with a little thoughtful planning. There's no point in rushing in. And Harvey, are you sure you can love and treat my daughter the way she's deserves. I know you and I know you can be a selfish man," Jim said. Donna's eyes went wide. She knew her dad would struggle but this candor was uncomfortable. Harvey knew he had to step up and make Jim trust him.
"Hey Jim and Clara, look I know it all sounds crazy but to us it feels right," Harvey said as his hand had now slipped from Donna's hand to her thigh. He may not have noticed the circles he was drawing on her leg but she did. The longer he touched her the more she wanted him. "You're right, Jim, I have lead a selfish life. I had a lot of past pain to deal with. And I have dealt with it. So now I'm free to care and love someone. And I pick Donna now and always." He couldn't look at Donna while saying these words, he felt guilty for putting her and her family in the middle of his mistake. While he meant every word, he didn't know how Donna felt.
"Well, ok. You two are adults. Mature adults. We will see you tomorrow in Las Vegas," Jim said before hanging up. With the sound of the click Harvey jolted back from Donna legs. He stood up and walked over to the windows. "That was hard. I'm so sorry Donna for putting you through this. And you're family. I feel like a complete ass," he muttered.
"That was brutal," she replied, "but it had to be done. Look, If you don't mind, I'm going to head home and pack and plan and ... do whatever. Are you ok with calling your mom by yourself?" Donna's head was spinning, she lied to her best friends and family, she had more wedding planning to do, and she was falling hard for Harvey all while pretending not to be in love in front of him and pretending to be in love in front of friends. It was exhausting to keep straight. She was so confused about her own feelings that she just needed to be by herself.
"Um, yeah," Harvey said still staring out the window. "I'll pick you up in the morning."
Friday morning. A fresh start to the day. Donna made the decision to enjoy the ride. What could be better than a weekend away with family and friends. She refused to let Harvey control her feelings. She was Donna and only Donna can control her feelings. She picked out her favorite white dress that's a little too short for work and her favorite heels, ready to play the part of Harvey Specter's fiancé. A knock at the door startled her from her thoughts. Nine sharp. She opened the door to see a more casually dressed Harvey, sporting a charming grin and a cup of vanilla coffee.
"Good morning, future wife. Are you ready to go?" It seemed Harvey had the same outlook on the day that she did. This should be interesting, she thought. "Right on time. Punctuality is definitely a quality I'm looking for in a husband," she chuckled. He grabbed her luggage as she locked her door and they made their way down to the car.
On the way to the airport, Harvey told Donna about his conversation with his mom and brother. Both were excited and would meet them there in Vegas. Marcus's kids demanded to come to serve as ring bearer and flower girl. Donna was so caught up in the conversation that she didn't notice Ray taking them to a different airport. It wasn't until they pull up next to the private plane that Donna realized it was for them.
"A private jet? Really Harvey is this how Mrs. Specter should expect to travel from now on?" Donna asked raising an eyebrow. Harvey laughed. "This will get you to Las Vegas, but you'll have to find your own ride home," he teased. When Ray opened the car door Donna instantly saw her parents and friends. "Mom! Dad!" She yelled running up and hugging them tightly. Seeing them was the next boost she needed.
"Harvey, this is quite the gesture, a plane like this," Jim said with a skeptical glance while shaking Harvey's hand.
"Oh, Jim. Come on. Harvey, thank you for the ride and welcome to the family," Clara said with a warm hug.
"Donna deserves the world," Harvey replied wrapping his arms around his bride. The couple couldn't help but notice everyone gushed over their physical contact. "Let's to go Vegas!" Donna screamed, "woo."
An hour into the plane ride, Donna got a call from her secretary. She stood up from her seat to head to the back of the plane. She didn't want anyone hearing. The Feds had called the office this morning wanting to speak with her. They had made the decision to leave for Vegas just in time. The secretary explained that Donna was out of the office for the day with colleagues and she would be available Monday. The Feds agreed to a meeting then. The call was a reminder that this wedding was actually happening to save Harvey from prison not because he loved her. Feeling a bit deflated, Donna made her way back to her seat. Just when she was about to sit the turbulence made her lose her balance and she fell right into Harvey's lap.
"Whoa there, you were only gone for a minute. Did you miss me that much," Harvey teased. But he noticed her seriously expression right away. "Is everything ok?" Not wanting to be heard, Donna stayed on Harvey's lap and leaned in to whisper in his ear.
"The Feds called the office today. I have a meeting with them on Monday. It's happening," Donna said.
"It'll be ok, Donna. You won't have to say anything to them. But for what it's worth, thank you for doing this and saving my ass."
When the group arrived in Las Vegas, Donna, Rachel and Clara left the airport and went straight to the mall for wedding dress shopping while the others checked into the Wynn. With only one day until the wedding the selection was minimal. She'd either have to pick a well fitting sample size or just a regular formal dress off the rack. But this was Vegas and Donna was hoping she'd get lucky with the perfect dress. The girls walked into Nordstrom and started in the formal section. There were a few white dresses that Donna tried on but none made her feel like a bride. Her mother and Rachel did find dresses for themselves. Her mom found a dark silver cocktail length dress. Rachel looked amazing in a burgundy lace dress that hit mid thigh.
"Rachel, Mike isn't going to let you out of sight tomorrow," Donna teased. "You look hot!"
"Speaking of hot, Donna! This sequined dress will be prefect for tonight," Rachel excitedly said holding a very shirt, very tight champagne sequin dress.
"Rachel, I know it's Vegas but maybe something with a little more fabric for dinner."
"Not dinner, we are having a bachelorette party tonight and you will kill it in this dress," Rachel said.
"Well, in that case. Sorry Mom! I'm going to tart it up tonight," Donna said laughing.
"I guess this is the time and place to do that," Clara responded, "once you have kids your mindset may change. I can't wait for grandkids." Donna stopped in her tracks she didn't think past this wedding. Kids? She couldn't go there and let an idea like kids and this fake marriage spoil her fun. Donna quickly changed the subject, "Let's go upstairs and see if there is anything more bridal there." At the top of the department store there were several gowns that looked like they'd work from far away but nothing really stood out to her.
"I'm not sure what you are looking for but this is the perfect dress for marrying Harvey Specter," Jessica said. Donna's head turned quickly as soon as she heard Jessica's voice. She ran over to hug he former boss and now long distant friend.
"Jessica! I've missed you," Donna said throwing her arms around her neck. "Thank you for coming!"
"You'd think I'd miss this, the couple who took 15 years to finally get it right," Jessica teased. She handed Donna the dress to try on while catching up with Rachel and meeting Clara. Five minutes later, Donna stepped out of the dressing room in a Willowby lace illusion dress. It had a plunging neckline and a blow back. It was perfectly fitted at the waist before falling into an a-line shape. It certainly wasn't the made to order couture gown she dreamed of when she was younger, but it was perfect. She knew it right away and so did everyone else in the room.
"Oh my God, Donna you are a vision," said Rachel.
"That's the one," her mom confirmed. And just like that, the final piece of the wedding day was planned. It had been the most fun, spending this time with her mom and friends all while finding the perfect dress. This was exactly how she pictured this moment all her life and it lived up to the hype, despite the unusual circumstances.
As the girls were headed back to the hotel, Donna's phone rang. "Hello," said she.
"Hey, hows it going? Did you find a dress yet?" Harvey asked.
"You bet I did. Actually two dresses, Rachel picked out my bachelorette dress and Jessica picked out my wedding dress. I'm pretty sure you'll like both."
"I can't wait. You'll look beautiful, I'm sure of it. In the meantime, honey, my mom, Marcus and kids are here if you want to come and say hello. They are having a late lunch in the lobby cafe."
"Sure, my mom and I will be right over," said before hanging up.
Jessica and Rachel took the dresses back to the hotel rooms while Donna and her mom continued to the cafe. When she saw Harvey and his family from a distance she could feel the butterflies starting up again. After all these years she was finally going to meet Lily Specter. She wanted so badly to make a good impression, she took a deep breath, stood tall and entered with her classic Donna power saunter. When Harvey saw her approach he quickly stood up with his Cheshire grin. He wrapped his arms around her waist and kissed her gently on the lips. It only took a second but it totally disarmed her. "Mom, this is Donna!" Harvey said proudly.
"Donna, you are even more beautiful than I imagined," Lily said embracing her. Donna and Clara sat down and the two families quickly hit it off. It felt so natural.
On the way back to the hotel rooms, Lily lightly touched Donna's arm and pulled her to the side. "Donna, I'm so sorry for my part in making Harvey emotionally unavailable all these years. You two are so perfect together and I just hate the idea that I kept you two from being happy." Lily's eyes were tearing up, the emotional baggage she was carrying was too heavy to lift.
"Lily, I appreciate you saying that, but as much as I've loved Harvey over the years, if we had been romantically together I wouldn't have become COO. And that title is important to me and who I've become as a woman. We are now where we are supposed to be. It may have been years in the making, but now it just feels so right," Donna said effortlessly because it actually did feel right.
After a quick nap, Donna freshened up in Rachel's room. She insisted that the honeymoon suite be saved for then wedding night. So, Mike stayed with Harvey instead. Donna was relieved when Rachel made the suggestion. It would be one less stressor before tomorrow. The idea of sharing a room or even a bed with Harvey was terrifying.
"What are you still doing in that dress!" Rachel asked. "What about your special new dress."
"Rachel, I guess I want to make a good impression for Harvey's family. Kids will be at dinner but don't worry the sequins will come out tonight," Donna said while shaking her booty. The girls made their way to Lakeside for dinner. Once again, Donna was met by an overly eager Harvey. She couldn't read him. Was he being handsy for show or because he was finally allowed.
Clink clink clink someone at the table wanted them to kiss. She looked at Harvey and quickly touched her lips to his. Clink clink clink, Donna rolled eyes and gave Harvey another peck. This kiss was met with objection from the table. They wanted to see the couple show their love. Clink clink clink, "oh, come on," Donna muttered feeling annoyed. But Harvey wanted to appease the crowd. Her grabbed her face and drew her in for a soft, slow and sensual kiss. The kind of kiss that you give someone you love. When they broke a part, Harvey smiled showing kind and loving eyes. Donna mirrored it back, unknowingly.
"I guess this is as good as time as any to give a speech," Marcus said standing up, "First of all, sorry to Louis and Mike but being Harvey's brother I got first dibs for best man." Louis whined and was clearly upset while Mike took the news with a little more grace. "I remember it like yesterday but it was actually 15 years ago," Marcus continued, "I called my big brother to get advice on how to approach a girl I like. Harvey, being Harvey said 'just charm her and if that doesn't work who cares. Find someone else.' I then asked, but what if there isn't anyone else you want. Haven't you ever felt that way before? He said, 'I feel that way about my new secretary. No one else will do.' At first I thought that was a weird thing to say. But over the years it became clear to me that Harvey wasn't some womanizer who wouldn't commit, he had loved Donna from the beginning he just couldn't take that leap because of his fear of losing her. But I can tell you, everyone here could see he loved Donna and he did everything he could to protect her all these years. And I bet I can speak for the whole table when I say we all were rooting for you two all along and we wish you the best marriage. Cheers."
The table clapped loudly in agreement with Marcus's words. Both Donna and Harvey teared up as the words hit home. When Donna went to wipe her tears away she realized she had been holding Harvey's hand the entire speech. She couldn't stop herself from falling harder. Her thoughts were interrupted by Rachel announcing that it was time for the girls to start the bachelorette party. Lily and Clara declined to head out to the club. The men were set to play poker while Donna, Rachel, Jessica, Gretchen, Louis, Sheila, Rosalie and Donna's sister Margaret, who just showed up out of the blue, went to XS nightclub.
Harvey didn't see Donna in her champagne sequin minidress. If he had he wouldn't have gone to the poker table. The second Donna entered the club men were trying to buy her drinks or get her to dance. At first she stuck close to her friends and sipped champagne. That was until Jessica decided it was time to take shots and hit the dance floor. They were partying like they were in their 20's. Donna was dancing in between two men almost half her age, when Harvey and Mike walked into the club. They weren't supposed to be there. But Rachel texted Mike a picture of Donna surrounded by men. She had a seductive look in her eye. Her legs seemed even longer in the short skirt. It was enough to drive Harvey crazy jealous. He wanted to break up whatever was happening in the club. He spotted her in the middle of the dance floor and marched straight up to her grabbing her wrist and yanking her away from the two boys. Donna was shocked to see him there and kind of pissed that he interrupted her fun.
"Harvey what are you doing here?"
"Hey man we were dancing with her, get your own girl," one of the dancers yelled.
"She is my girl," Harvey said sternly holding up Donna's ring finger. Leaning close to his ear because of the club's loud music, Donna protested, "Harvey, you didn't have to do that. We were just having some fun." He pulled her in close to him and started dancing to the music. He groaned into her, "Not dressed like that," he said nibbling on her ear. The sensation scrambled her brain. She was unable to respond with a witty comeback. He was taking her breath away as her body was responding to his movements. His knee parted her legs and he moved her backwards against the wall. The world around them disappeared as he smashed his lips against hers. He tasted of whiskey. Donna assumed it was the driving force of his actions. In actuality, it was the dress. Their kissing only continued to get more intense as the rubbed their bodies against each other to the music. She could feel him grow hard against her belly. It sent the tingly feeling throughout her whole body until she shivered. Knowing she was close just from grinding, Harvey moved his fingers down and slipped them under her dress teasing her throughout her thong. He was right. The heat was building inside her body as she finally released against him. She cried out but the music drowned it out and only Harvey heard. Satisfied with himself, he pulled back just a bit to look Donna in the eyes. It was the first time since he approached her tonight that he had a soft loving look in his eyes. He was about to lean in for another kiss when a very irritated Rachel tapped him on the shoulder.
"You shouldn't be here. This is a bachelorette party, Harvey. Get going. Back to poker or a strip club or bed. I don't care - just go," Rachel said sternly. She took Donna by the hand and led her back to their table. Donna grabbed a water bottle and started chugging. How could she let him do that to her? She was defenseless when he turned on his charm. She couldn't stop herself from sinking into him. And now, she's more confused than ever.
She looked up when she heard giggling coming from Rachel, Jessica and Margaret. Her other friends went to bed at midnight. She gave them a quizzical look. Margaret turned her phone around so she could see. She had snapped a picture of Donna and Harvey grinding against each other against the wall. The picture was a perfect representation of what happened. It was hot. And now, Donna was embarrassed for letting it happen in public. "Oh come on, Donna," Margaret said, "you'll be happy to have this picture one day when your married sex life is boring. Don't be embarrassed you were just making out with fiancé." Donna stood up and walked out of the club, exhausted from everything. Her friends followed behind. "I need some chocolate."
The next morning Donna woke up in bed with Rachel. They were a mess, hung over with smeared makeup and crazy bed head. They even managed to trash room. "I feel... like shit," Donna groaned. Rachel chuckled knowing how ridiculous they probably looked. "Oh man, last night was so much fun, though. Thank you for getting married in a hurry in Vegas. I needed a reckless night out," Rachel said as she got up to see what the knock was on the door.
It was room service with the perfect breakfast in bed assortment, coffee, pancakes, fruit, breakfast sandwiches and a note and a gift. Donna picked up the note from the tray. It read, "Good morning to my bride. I thought you could use an energizing breakfast to get your day started. I can't wait to see you later today. Have fun with the girls. Love, Harvey." Donna got choked up at the letter.
"I think I want to marry Harvey for sending us this spread," Rachel joked. "What's in the box?" Donna picked up the box and lifted the lid inside was a crystal hair clip. It was beautiful, the perfect piece to wear to a wedding. When she looked more closely she saw the hairpiece was made up of tiny little strawberries. This gift wasn't for show, it meant something to only them. What was Harvey trying to say?
After coffee, a little grease and a hot shower, Donna was feeling better. She quickly picked up the room before her mom and the make up artist and hair stylist arrived. She was quiet most of the morning, something her mom and Rachel picked up on. Every time they asked if she was okay she'd say she was fine or just tired. The truth, she was nervous. Her stomach was doing flips every moment she thought of Harvey. They were just an hour away from getting married and she wasn't able to compartmentalize her feelings. She was marrying her best friend to keep him from going to prison. She was marrying the love of her life. Which was it? And did Harvey feel the same?
As the hair stylish slid the hair clip onto the side of her head she knew she really wanted this to be real. The thoughtful gestures he made and passionate kiss from the night before all made it seem like he was feeling the same way. But this was Harvey and he always found a way to shut her out whenever they got close to crossing the line.
After her hair and make up were done, they went to The Little Chapel to finish getting dressed in the bridal suite. Donna stared at herself in the full length mirror. She looked beautiful in the long white gown they had chosen the day before. On the outside, it was just how she'd pictured her wedding day. On the inside, the turmoil was not.
"I can't do it," she finally said still looking into the mirror for answers. Clara and Rachel were stunned at the revelation, Harvey and Donna seemed so in love.
"What do you mean, honey?" her mom asked. "I mean, I can't marry Harvey," she said with a cold tone as she sat down and started to cry.
"I'm going to get Harvey. You two should talk before you pull the plug," Rachel said leaving the room. Clara tried to get Donna to open up, but couldn't. Clara believed in this marriage and she wouldn't let her daughter give it up. So she pulled a chair behind Donna facing away.
"I'll let you talk to Harvey. But he can't see you before the wedding. It's tradition," Clara said as she lead Harvey into the room covering his eyes. She sat him down in the chair and explained to the couple they can't peak. But settling whatever was wrong was a good idea. She left the room. Harvey and Donna sat in silence for a minute before she spoke up.
"I'm sorry, Harvey. I was looking at my self in the mirror and my mom was there and this lie has been consuming me. I just can't do it anymore."
"Donna, please don't do this," Harvey pleaded. Donna sighed. She knew she owed him and explanation but coming clean could damage their relationship.
"It feels too real," she said slowly, "Playing this part, convincing our families that we are in love has left me feeling... I can't marry you knowing that I'm actually in love with you and you are just playing a part." She closed her eyes, embarrassed with the truth. Still sitting back to back she felt Harvey's hand tug on hers.
"Why do you think I kissed you last night?" he asked.
"I don't know and that's the problem," she replied in a defeatist tone.
"I didn't kiss you for show," he said, "I kissed you because I wanted to. I kissed you because I couldn't stop myself. I kissed you because I love you. I wanted to tell you last night but Rachel interrupted us. So I tried letting you know this morning with the gift. Look- I'm ready now to make this commitment, for real. I realized wouldn't have asked anyone else in the world to fake marry me. So I guess what I'm saying is, a part of me wanted to marry you all along." The weight that Donna has been carrying for the last two days finally lifted. She loved this man and he loved her back. She felt happy.
Harvey slid off his chair and on to his knee, facing Donna with his eyes closed, he pulled the engagement ring off her finger. "Let's do this the right way. By telling the truth," he said, "Donna Roberta Paulsen, I love you. I'm in love with you. I can't imagine my life with out you in it. Will you marry me, right here right now?"
"Yes! Of course I'll marry you." Harvey slid the ring back on her finger and stood up.
"I'll see you on the other side of the aisle," he said leaving the room.
Clara and Rachel rushed back into the room to see what had happened. They were relieved to find Donna in a much better mood. She fixed up her eye make up and smoothed out her dress. When she looked into the mirror this time, she saw a bride who was ready both inside and out to marry the man of her dreams.
The rest happened in what felt like slow motion. She took her father's arm and walked down the aisle towards Harvey. He never looked so handsome. She has seen him in a tuxedo many times before. But this time he was dressed for her. They both couldn't hide their happiness as the smiles on their faces grew huge.
"Donna, I want to thank you for being here with me today. We've been on a long journey together and I wouldn't be standing here if it wasn't for your trust in me, your patience with me and your unconditional love. I vow to you going forward to always put your needs first as I have done over the past years. I vow to continue to protect you and fight for you but the biggest difference is showing you how much I love you. It started the day you introduced yourself to me in the bar and my love for you has grown everyday. I was just afraid to face it. I love you," Harvey said taking a deep sigh and wiping the tears from his eyes, "and it feels so good to be able to say it." Donna felt like she was in a dream. The words Harvey was saying made her heart warm and relaxed because she was no longer dealing with inner doubt.
"Harvey, it may have taken us years to take this leap but I've always felt that we were together all this time. We always just clicked because could anticipate each other's needs and read each other's minds. I always knew you loved me but you just weren't ready and the truth is, I wasn't ready either. But now that we are here I vow to tell you I love you every day, to support you on your best and worst day and to stay by your side until we are old and gray."
"Harvey, do you take Donna to be your lawfully wedded wife?"
"I do," Harvey said beaming.
"Donna, do you take Harvey to be your lawfully wedded husband?"
"I do."
"I now pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss your bride."
The newly married couple slowly lean into a soft and tender kiss, the kind you reserve for the love of your life. And this time is felt right with no uncertainties surrounding them.