What Was Stolen From Us

by GnSb

Donna Paulsen has just returned to San Diego, the heart of California and her hometown, to finally start her career as a General Surgeon, after 8 years studying hard at Harvard University in Boston, where she was with the goal of not only conquering her dream, but also starting over from scratch and forgetting her past. But your past is very far from being left behind.

1. 1 Still, I feel

Well, I confess that I am very nervous about this story, I have no idea if you will like the plot and what I intend to deliver here. I just ask for a chance to make this work, and I hope from the bottom of my heart that you like it!

I want to thank you immensely for the help of my beta Sarah (@saraitinha) Believe me, without the help of this angel I couldn't be here now, after all English is not my language, and I'm sure Portuguese (br) is far away! That's it, no more wasting time, Enjoy the first chapter of What was stolen from us.

Chapter 1 - Still, I feel

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"It was like saying it, without saying it: I know it's been a while, but I still love you." - Tati Bernardi

Donna's pov

I can say that I can't believe that after 8 years I'm finally coming home. Not gonna lie, I'm totally anxious and apprehensive about this whole change. But just thinking about seeing my parents and friends again makes my heart flutter in ecstasy.

I must confess, all these years have not been easy at all, I have dedicated myself ardently to becoming an excellent surgeon, and just thinking that all my effort, dedication, and persistence to raise "perfection" was worth it, I feel a great relief and a surreal happiness flooding my whole being. Medicine has always been my passion, I really want the chance to save lives. For that reason, I dedicated myself to every second I had.

And well, I'm not going to be a total hypocrite and say that I haven't had something to distract myself with a few times. To be more specific, I had a little being to bail me out of all that mess, stress, exhaustion, bringing me so much happiness and unforgettable moments. After all, it was a beautiful surprise that I would never have expected — at least, not at that moment — but it was welcomed with open arms. And this gem's name is Sarah, Sarah Paulsen Kessler.

I'm just thankful for the wonderful daughter I have. She's sweet, she's kind, even though she's a very shy little girl, with few friends. Many times she can barely express herself, being very withdrawn and contained. I rarely see her overly excited or completely electric around other people, most of the times she opens up more when she's with me, or with people who she has a good bonding, which happens. However, it is clear that excessive shyness in childhood can cause major problems. So I'm on the lookout for any sign that something isn't going right.

Believe me, the news that I was going to be a mother at 17 was completely scary, it left me in a state of shock, and with a lot of fear. It was something that really caught me off guard, all of it was so sudden. Initially I didn't believe I would have been so irresponsible in that way. Also because I was too young, I had just finished high school and was about to start medical school, something that would take all my time, all my attention. When I found myself in that situation I felt so messed up.

However, I had someone to count on, someone who brought me calm, security, putting me back in place, saying "Hey, it's okay. Don't worry, we can do this. We can do this." He simply gave me all the support, all the certainty that we would be capable enough to raise our daughter together no matter what the circumstances. And I'm totally grateful for that, because that was the boost I needed to take courage and face the consequences of my own actions, my own choices.

So I say with all the letters that Thomas is the most incredible man I've met in my entire life.

Even with the pregnancy, I preferred that he continued just as my boyfriend, that we took it easy, at least for the time being, and he respected my decision. Especially because if it was up to him, we would have married at that moment. But it was a lot to process at that time, I didn't want to rush things that way, without at least enjoying these moments that should be special. And now we've been engaged for about 2 years. I remember perfectly the beautiful surprise he prepared to ask me to marry him. Obviously I didn't think twice and accepted.

I don't think I acted impulsively, the truth is I knew his place in my life, and to be honest he was the right man for me, time has shown me that, all that confidence has come from the many years we've spent together. Kessler won me over. He conquered it by being a great father, a great partner and always supporting me, especially when I thought I would drop out of college because it took so much out of me, even more so with Sarah so young and often needing her mother. It brought the most beautiful smiles to my face. He has dreams, goals, and a great desire to create a family by my side. Thomas is my home, where I should always be at.

He's coming to San Diego in three months. Unfortunately, he couldn't come with us, due to the fact that he has matters still pending at the Cravath Swaine & Moore law firm, where he works. After his recent promotion to Senior Partner, he has a big client on his hands, and he needs to handle it as best as he can if he is going to achieve his goal of becoming Nominal Partner. That's why his presence is indispensable in New York right now.

During this time I plan to focus on my daughter and most in our wedding preparations. We agreed that as soon as he got here, we would wait a few days to get married. Meanwhile he would have time to rest and be fully disposed. I really intend to enlist my mother's help with all the organization, as I will be a little busy starting my career at the San Diego Medical Center, the most prestigious and renowned hospital in the city.

Although I'm not going to start my career in there and the main reason is because my father has influence with the general manager, Daniel Hardman. If there's one thing I've always hated in life, it's conquering something that isn't on my own merit. Just thinking about having something at the expense of others, simply having "privileges" or contacts with important people who would easily put me in that place makes me nauseous. We had agreed that, as soon as I finished college, I would send my resumé listing each area I studied.

I certainly received my admission letter via email after a few weeks, which was one of the reasons to come back as soon as possible. Plus, both the general director and Jessica Pearson, the managing director, one of the owners of the hospital network, specified in the letter that it would be an honor to work alongside me. It made me as radiant as Times Square on Christmas Eve. I am determined and very confident in showing them what I came for.

When I noticed, my daughter signals that the plane was about to land. Once we landed, we headed towards the airport exit in search of a taxi to take us home. Clara has no idea that I'm back and with a little surprise by my side. I can't even imagine what her and my father's reaction will be seeing me after so many years. But I believe they were overwhelmed to finally meet their granddaughter. And as long as we only talk via phone calls and video calls, I'm sure they'll be happy with the visit. I really thought I'd let them know, but I like the idea of giving them a surprise.

With these thoughts floating through my mind, time passes quickly and the next thing I know, I find myself in front of the house where I grew up. I wake Sarah carefully, running my fingers through her red strands, calling her softly as she was in a light sleep, clinging to my body. She soon woke up, rubbing her eyes, pulling away from me so that I could open the door. I kindly thank the taxi driver after paying him for the ride. I hold tight to our bags with my left hand, and with the other I intertwine my hand with my daughter's hand and head towards the door. A heavy sigh passes my lips, anxiety runs through every fiber of my being, and all this mix of emotions makes my heart flutter frequently as I stare at the door.

- Mommy? - Sarah's sweet and soft voice calling for me brings me out of the trance. So I turn my head to the side and lean down a little so I can see her looking at me curiously. - Are you ok? - I frowned at the question. Then I crouch down, staying at her height, with one arm resting on her knee, while my free hand goes to her face, so that I can remove the lock of hair that covered her eye and behind her ear.

- I'm fine, honey. - I answer subtly, smiling with closed lips, sliding my index finger down her cheek, over the freckles. - But why the question?

- You seem nervous. Is there anything that worries you? - My eyebrows jump at her speech. Sometimes I forget how perceptive she is, always able to easily understand something that others can't, which is to say, being too smart, intelligent and insightful for an 8-year-old girl. But she had someone to take after didn't she? - Are you afraid to see grandma and grandpa?

- No..! - She looks at me with that cute little face and cheeks full of air, and eyes closed. Which only mean one thing: "I don't believe a word you said." I curl my lips on a sigh, and lift my hands up in surrender. - It is serious! Let's just say I'm a little too anxious... oh, you know what? Maybe mom is nervous about all this! But it must be because I haven't seen them in a long time, pepper. - She raises her small hand towards me and caresses my cheek, making me smile with her gesture.

- But you don't have to worry about it mommy, I'm here with you. Everything will be fine!

- Thanks! It makes me a lot calmer, you know? - I wink in complicity, standing up, leaving a kiss on her forehead, while stroking her locks. I return my gaze to the door, take a deep breath and ring the bell. Soon I hear his affable and pleasant voice. It calms my heart, making it just overflow with love.

- Good afternoon, what do you want— - Her voice cracks the second her eyes land on us. Her orbs sparkle from unshed tears. - I don't believe this. - She whispers with her hands in front of her mouth, before crouching at Sarah's height, looking at her with admiration and affection. - Does grandma deserve a hug? - Questions Clara with her voice slightly choked by crying. I noticed little Paulsen's smile, before throwing herself into her grandmother's arms, who holds her tight, filling her face with kisses.

She held Sarah in her lap, and rose, wrapping her arm around my neck, pulling me close in a tight, not-so-subtle hug. I took advantage of the touching warmth that her arms transmit to me, and I wrapped mine around her waist, pressing her tightly against me, burying my face in the curve of her neck, inhaling the sweet and nostalgic scent that emanates from her.

- Ah, my love, how I missed you, you have no idea! - With a beautiful smile on her lips. - Why didn't you tell me you were coming today? Your father and I would have gone to get you girls at the airport!

- I wanted to make a surprise mom! And it looks like it worked! Is daddy there? - I ask still feeling the anxiety running through my veins, making my hands tremble a little.

- In the kitchen, and ironically, he is taking that cake you love out of the oven. - She gently pull my face, depositing the seal on my forehead. - Come on in girls!

The moment I walk in, I feel an air of nostalgia. I remember the last time I was here, I was still a 17-year-old girl, ready to face the big challenges of adult life, in search of a goal, but not even imagining where fate would take me. Now here I am, being a mother, determined to make a name for myself, build my career in medicine, and marry the man I love. I get out of my daydreams when I get to the kitchen and see my dad super focused on what he was doing.

- Dedicated as always, aren't you daddy? - It sounded playfully, curving my lips into a tender smile.

- Donna...? My god are you really my daughter? - He questions in such a chaotic and astonished way, that I can't hold back a laugh.

- Why don't you prove it by giving me a hug? - It doesn't take long until I can feel his arms wrapping me in a tight hug.

As soon as mom appears in the kitchen hand in hand with Sarah he gets emotional, carefully approaching the youngest who was not intimidated by his approach. He hugged her tightly, and exchanged a few words with his granddaughter, who smiled and responded slightly shyly.

- Why didn't you tell us you were coming today? - Asked my father, getting to his feet.

- She said she wanted to surprise us. You know Donna, you've always liked to be unpredictable, and in that she takes after you.

- I guess that was a compliment. - He stammered, staring at her curiously, making her roll her eyes, I ended up laughing.

- But like Mrs. It's exaggerated, Mom. - I can't avoid the sarcasm in my tone of voice.

- So, how was the trip? - Questions Jim smiling, moving away to bake the cake. I took the chance to sit on the stool, in front of the kitchen counter, calling for Sarah who ran into my arms, sitting on my lap.

- It was good! - I say simplistic, stroking my daughter's wavy locks.

- And you didn't see anyone you knew on the way? - My mom follows the line of conversation, and sits next to me, sliding her hand on my back.

- No. And how are you guys? It's been a while since I last saw them.

- They are fine. Should mark something with them, who knows? Reminisce about old times, I'm sure they'd love to see you.

- I'll think about it. Samantha and Rachel? Do they still live in the city? - My excitement is evident when referring to the girls, which is not surprising, they have been my best friends since childhood, and I fear the fact that I have lost contact with them during these years.

- Well, Samantha does. She's working at the San Diego Medical Center, so I imagine you'll have the opportunity to meet her.

- Serious? This is really great. And Rachel?

- As far as I know, she's in Paris studying fashion. As you well remember that girl has an extraordinary talent as a designer, and ended up using her gift in clothes. It's been about 3 years since she moved.

- I see. So I'm gonna take the chance I have, and meet Samantha, I confess I miss her so much.

- Have you lost touch with everyone?

- Sadly yes. - She sighs in agreement, but soon begins to stare at me thoroughly, apparently waiting for something from me. I frowned.

- What is it?

- Nothing, nothing. - Uselessly tries to evade the subject.

- What do you mean nothing, Mom? I know you, I know that face, I know you want to tell me something, or ask me, so why don't you say it? Be direct, Clara Paulsen.

- I don't think it's worth involving this subject in a pleasant moment like this. - I instigate her with my eyes, she knows that deep down I won't settle down until she releases whatever it is. - Okay, I confess that I'm a bit surprised that you didn't ask me about him, that's it! - Confesses, in a shrug. A humorless smile plays across my lips.

- He who mommy? - The little redhead sitting on my lap shifts her curious gaze between me and her grandmother, searching for answers, which makes me a little alarmed. I don't want to talk about this man in front of my daughter.

- Nobody in particular, pepper. - I say, smiling forcedly. - I have an idea. How about you go check out Mom's old room while I have a chat with your grandparents? - I propose excitedly, asking the heavens that she accepts without much effort. The smaller one gives me a suspicious look, but nods in agreement, without objection. Then she jumps out of my lap, and runs out of the room.

- It's up the stairs, in the first hallway, second door on the right! - Shouts my mother giving the instructions to the room. She yells from the stairs "OKAY" and Clara looks back at me.

- Surprise? It's almost unbelievable that such a hypothesis crossed her mind. - I can't hide the rudeness in my voice once we're alone. I catch a glimpse of my father's apprehensive gaze on the two of us. He's aware that Mom is unconscious reopening a wound, bringing up that damn subject, talking about that son of a bitch with me.

- Donna, it's not like he's a person I don't have an appreciation for, a fondness for—

- Oh, let me inform you of something. These feelings only come from you!

- The way you express it, it seems that he had no meaning for you. For god's sake, he was your...!

- You're not seriously finishing that sentence, are you, mom? - I cut her off, showing my total discomfort with the direction this conversation is taking. - Listen, if he ever meant anything to me, in my life, today he doesn't anymore.

- Donna—

- What happened between us, was just an illusion of a passionate and innocent teenager who trusted her heart to anyone. But look, that changed, he changed me.

- I understand.

- You mean you didn't nurture any kind of feelings for him? - Now who asks is my father.

- No. - I answer before I even formulate the answer in my head. - I can assure you that any feelings I had for him died a long time ago. - I tap my fingertips on the counter, trying to contain the nervousness that spreads through my nerves, burning my skin. - I have someone else now.

- Speaking of Thomas, when is he coming? - Mom goes ahead with her questions.

- Three months from now. Which reminds me, I have news for you. - I take a deep breath, before smiling happily. - We're getting married. - I watch them both with my mouth open, in total shock. When my mother comes out of her trance, she exudes joy and hugs me laughing.

- I don't believe it! My little girl is getting married! - Her exclaims with pride. - You should know that I will help with all the preparations.

- I was about to ask you that favor, I'm afraid I'll be curled up for a while in the hospital. We agreed to get married after a few days, as soon as he arrives. I want him to rest before anything else.

- Don't you think you're being a little... hasty about this, Donna? - I feel fear emanating from my dad.

- Hmm well no after all, we've been together for almost 9 years, he's my daughter's father. Why would you think that?

- I'm not being against your marriage, I would never do something like that. I just want you to be sure of this. You're going to start a career now, you need to focus on that.

- I assure you that I am fully willing and committed to work, marriage will not be the problem. But are you sure that's all you're worried about? - He gasps deeply, resting his hands on the bench.

- Are you sure he's the right person? - He looks distressed. - I know he's my granddaughter's father, and he's a great guy, I just... I want to know if that's really what you want. I believe you know how important marriage is in a couple's life, the big step are taking. - I smile in a way that brings him some comfort.

- I know dad. Thomas is an amazing man, a wonderful father, you'll see when he gets here. I'm sure once you get to know him, you be more bona fide.

- If you say so, I trust so. Well, the cake is ready, call Sarah and let's eat.

We ate, talked, laughed and enjoyed each other's company. This family moment really warmed my heart.

A couple of hours later, I left the table and told them I would go up to rest. Little Paulsen slyly asked for a few more hours with her grandparents, and I let her. I want her to make the most of their company, and they seemed quite excited to spend time with her. As I reach the hallway, and enter my room, I realize that everything is the same way I left it. Mom didn't touch anything at all, she just kept it clean. I hadn't touched anything that day, I just packed what I thought I would need and just ran away.

I left everything behind, I picked up the pieces in search of a new beginning, determined to burn all my past until it was only ashes. I was devastated, aimless, desperate among many other adjectives I could use to try to describe exactly what I felt. But the one thing I firmly believe is that a part of me died there. Observe the decoration of the room, trying to feel that "Donna" in me who ceased to exist. The walls are pink with white, there is a large wardrobe with a mirror on the side of the door, a little in front of a small panel with the TV facing the bed, and with the back to the wardrobe. On the side of my bed, a desk and a small closet beside it, shelves at the front with some decoration purposes, paintings and portraits of when I was younger with my friends and... him.

Yeah, I really didn't mess with anything.

I end up taking it between my fingers, looking at it with a bitterness in my eyes, a revulsion that scares me, it makes my chest hurt. Hot steam escapes my lips. I shake my head in denial, open the drawer and throw it inside so it won't see the light of day again. I sigh heavily, with my eyes closed and go straight to the bathroom, where I look for a nice warm shower to relax the tension in my muscles. I feel my whole body aching, every bone structure stiffening, begging for rest. I have to sleep if I want to wake up fresh in the morning. I search the bathroom cupboard for fresh towels and sigh in relief when I find it.

I step into the shower, letting the warm water wash over me as I slide my hands over my face, running my fingers through my auburn strands lazily, dispelling any thoughts that come to erode my now stable sanity. I'm not here to reminisce about the past, torment myself with memories that broke me, or succumb to the pain that was caused to me. He didn't deserve my tears then, and he doesn't deserve it now. All of this is a waste of time. This illusion that we once were is a waste of time.

[...]

I wake up as soon as I hear the alarm clock go off, it was about 7:00 in the morning. I open my eyes vaguely, getting used to the dim light coming through the curtain, and I find myself hugging my daughter's small body. She has her little face buried in my chest, curled up, her arm around my waist. I can feel her and warm breath on my skin. I stroke her hair and kiss her forehead before pulling away, careful not to wake her. I get up and cover her with the comforter before going to the bathroom to do my morning routine.

I wore tight jeans, a pair of high-heeled Vizzano pumps with a white pointed toe, and a white dress shirt. I rolled up my sleeves, running my fingers through my locks, pulling my hair into a messy bun, leaving a few strands loose. On the lips just a gloss and on the eyes mascara. I finish it, and look at her one last time before leaving the room. I go downstairs, heading to the kitchen, finding my parents awake.

- Up at this hour, Donna? I thought you would rest from yesterday's trip. - Clara directs her gaze briefly on me, before pouring coffee into my father's cup.

- I'm going to the hospital this morning. I have a little formal meeting with the general director, Daniel Hardman, so he can show me the entire hospital facility. I heard they had a major renovation, so I need to familiarize myself and know when I start work.

- I'm glad you're so excited. - Jim murmurs, bringing the drink to his lips.

- Well, I'm off to the hospital guys I don't want to be late. I still have to stop by the new school Sarah will be attending, and sort out all the paperwork for her transfer. - I take an apple, get to the key hook near the door, and pick one of the keys to one of my father's cars between my fingers.

- Won't you eat something else Donna? - I glance at my mother, resting her hand on her waist, looking at me with disapproval.

- I promise to have lunch on the way back with you, now I really need to go. - I direct my steps to the garage, getting into a black Toyota SW4. It was a 15 minute ride. I park and walk with long strides, but not too hastily. I enter through the automatic doors, and slide my gaze over the cozy, subtle environment, which brought an air of comfort and tranquility, bustled by most of the employees. I feel my attention being drawn to a girl with her back turned, in a white coat, leaning on the reception desk. Due to the blonde hair apparently very well known to me, and her posture, I decided to take a chance. - Okay, I admit that blonde is really your brand. - I say gracefully, approaching with a discreet smile. Repair Samantha calmly turns around.

- I can't believe it, I can only be dreaming. - She smiles in disbelief.

- Believe me, I'm more real than you think.

- Okay, maybe it's not a dream! - She walks hurriedly towards me, and wraps her arms around my neck. - You were truly missed my redhead friend. - Whimpers over my shoulder.

- I missed you a lot too. - I whisper into her hair, placing kisses on her cheek. - But tell me, how are you?

- I'm great, better now that I have you back! - She pulls back cautiously, admiring my face.

- But tell me, what area are you working in here?

- I'm in the pediatric ward of the hospital, you know I've always been good with children, so I specialized in the area of care for the youngest.

- They must adore you, you always had a special gift when it comes to children.

- I can't argue with you. - She insinuates with a pretentious smile on her lips, I shake my head in denial.

- Wow, you are really impeccable, Samantha, you have become a wonderful woman and time has done you good.

- I admit that hearing that from you boosts my ego. And that's what I say huh, you're a sin in person, and let's be honest here you were always beautiful, time is always in your favor.

- What can I say, the big guy upstairs were generous with me.

- Absolutely... Oh, by the way, I'll update you on everything later, I intend to tell you what happened during the time you were away.

- I'm looking forward to it Sam. I also have great news. - I say euphorically, and her eyes narrow at me.

- That way, you cause me an anxiety attack, redhead. Let's take it easy! - We smile.

- Come here, do you know where I can find Daniel Hardman? I made an appointment with him for this morning.

- Donna Paulsen? - I hear my name being pronounced by an effeminate but powerful voice, so I turn around.

- Jessica Pearson! - I give a subtle smile, greeting her with a handshake.

- I'm glad you arrived, Daniel had mentioned that you would be here this morning. There was an unforeseen event and he was not going to attend, but I reassured him, stating that I would be willing to help you with whatever was necessary.

- You don't know how grateful I am for that, it will be a pleasure to be on your team.

- Well, come on then I'll show you around the hospital. Miss Wheeler?

- Yes?

- Are you busy?

- For you? Never.

- Then come with us, please. Your presence will be of a great help.

- Oh, of course.

- Excellent.

She holds her hand forward, and I walk with them, until she is beside me, just like Samantha. They were very patient in showing me all the facilities, such as the medical wards, the locker room, the CEO's office, specifically Daniel Hardman's office. Rest wing, my own room, which honestly had a nice sophisticated feel. Once in a while, I didn't fail to ask something to show my interest, as soon as we finished her to a few steps in front of me.

- Do you understand everything?

- Yes.

- Great, so you're officially hired. We just need to get some paperwork done, but tomorrow Ms. you can start.

- That's great, thank you so much for this opportunity! I promise to commit.

- Doctor, excuse me... but what do you think about Donna joining us for dinner tonight with that businessman? - I watch the blonde question while a point of curiosity invades me.

- What dinner would that be? - I can't contain my interest in the subject.

- A few months ago, we have been getting donations for the hospital, to finance projects, new devices, improvements in the facilities, among many others. This man, whose name we still don't know is one of the donors. I can say that he is very mysterious, because until then he has been an anonymous donor. But today we will have dinner with him to get to know him and explain in detail how his donations are and will be invested.

- Also we will hold a charity ball, as a way of thanking the donors. If he accepts, we will have what is left to start one of the hospital's improvements, which is to increase the ward for children with cancer who are in their final stages. - Says Wheeler.

- I understand. It's a noble cause of yours, I'm in awe, so to speak. - I show a kind smile. - But don't you think it would get in the way if I went?

- Well, stopping to analyze briefly, it would be a great idea for you to go. - The brunette's gaze hovering over me, makes me slightly intimidated. - It would be a great opportunity for you, and with your impeccable resume, he will be able to appreciate the fact that we are working with talented and dedicated people! But of course, if you accept the invitation.

- If my presence will help the hospital, of course I will. Count on me.

- Great, we'll meet at 8:00 pm, at Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Restaurant, don't be late. Now if you'll excuse me, I need to get back to my room. Until later! - After saying goodbye, she leaves.

- Wonderful, I managed to take you with me. I didn't want to go alone. - The blonde looked relieved.

- You put me in this situation, just so don't go alone? - Question stunned by the courage of the woman in front.

- Well you and me both got lucky! Look, at 19:00, I'll stop by your house to pick you up. Okay?

- Of course, I'll wait.

- That is great. - She smiles, then directing her eyes to the watch on her wrist. I realize I took too much time from her.

- Gotta go, good job and see you later.

When I got home after sorting out my issues, I help my mother decide a few things about the wedding decor. As soon as it's 6:00 pm, I excuse myself and go to my room to get ready. I decided for a long, hot shower, as I'm feeling a little tense about this dinner. It really makes me uneasy. As far as I know, I've never been one to feel intimidated by something as simple as that. I just need to maintain my demeanor, class, and help in whatever way it takes to convince this "mystery man" that his help will be of great help to many children.

When I'm done, I go to the bedroom and choose a black satin PARTHEA dress above the knees, right on my body, subtly highlighting my slim waist, and my medium breasts, leaving them well designed under the garment. Backless, with a simple side slit, spaghetti straps. A high heel with a thick barrel, with two black straps. I left my hair loose, curling the ends with them hitting just above the middle of my back. I put the strands that are on my face behind my ear, to create a makeup that is not too heavy, but delicate and elegant.

- Mommy you look beautiful. - I hear Sarah's gentle praise as soon as she opens the bedroom door. She is already in pajamas, with white slippers with some pink stains, and a teddy bear in her hands, pressing against her body. I smile at her and call her closer to me. The little girl walks towards me and I bend down to cup her cheeks in the palm of my hands and kiss her right there.

- Thank you my love.

- And where are you going?

- I'm off to a business dinner.

- And you're going by yourself? - I giggle, picking her up in my lap and taking her to sit with me on the bed.

- No, I'm going with a friend. And there, we're going to meet our boss and we're going to meet a "mystery man". - I emphasize the last line in an enigmatic and low way, as if I were telling something confidential. Her greenish eyes widen in excitement, and I feel her grip her teddy bear even tighter.

- "Mysterious man?" - She kneels on the bed, waiting for me to say something else.

- That's right. He's an anonymous donor at the hospital where mom is going to work at, and today his identity will be revealed. - She looks at me suspiciously, almost making me burst out laughing.

- Is that really true? - She doesn't seem convinced, I almost get offended.

- Oh my God! Do you think I'm lying to you miss Sarah? - I question with my arms crossed. She rolls her eyes and laughs.

- I don't know. - She curls her lips and stares at me defiantly. - But I believe in you if you promise me…

- Promise you what?

- Tell me the identity of this "mysterious man". - She puts the teddy bear on her lap and makes quotation marks with her fingers. - What do you say, Donna Roberta Paulsen? Closed deal? - I feel provoked by that little being.

- Deal done, Miss Sarah Paulsen!

We hold hands, finalizing our deal. After that, I hear my mother yelling at me from downstairs, it must be Samantha who has arrived. I grab my purse and head downstairs with my daughter right behind me. When I find Wheeler waiting for me at the door, I turn my attention to her, admiring how wonderful she looks. A long rose-colored dress, with slits down both legs to her thigh. Her hair was also loose and her makeup was light. When she spots the little redhead hiding with a teddy bear behind me, her eyes widen in astonishment, and her mouth drops open trying to utter whatever it can get out of her lips. I just burst out laughing at her reaction.

- Oh my God! Don't tell me that..?

- Mommy, is this your friend? - Her mouth almost reaches the floor when she sees Sarah calling me "mommy".

- Yes, pepper.

- She's very beautiful... - Whisper softly so that only I can hear.

- She is! - I answer, bringing her in front of me, resting my free hand on her shoulder.

- That was the great news you were going to tell me? - Question still stunned, cautiously approaching us.

- One of them, but it's the best. - Crouches in front of the youngest, with one of her best smiles on her face.

- Good night, young lady. - Samantha says gently, making her open a small, almost imperceptible smile.

- Good night lady.

- My name is Samantha. But you are more than authorized to call me Sam. So please no formalities. - Sam stretch out her hand, waiting for my daughter to finish the greeting. I sigh in relief when she does.

- You are very pretty, Sam. - Shoot relaxed, making me open a serene smile. She's blending in more than I expected.

- Wow, I'm grateful for the compliment, even more coming from a girl as graceful as you. By the way, may I know your name, little redhead?

- My name is Sarah.

- Sarah... it's a beautiful name, your mother knew how to choose it very well. - Her cheeks flush, and she goes back to squeezing the teddy bear in her arms.

- Thanks!

- I have many questions. - She stands up suddenly, staring at me with a mixture of excitement and shock. That blonde seems to have so many doubts and questions, that it makes me dizzy just thinking about how many questions are ahead.

- And I'll answer all of them when I can, now we're late honey, let's go!

I say goodbye to my daughter and my mother who soon returned to where we were. Samantha said goodbye to Clara with a brief hug, and to Sarah with a small fist of hands, realizing her shyness, which makes me believe that she didn't want to invade her space. I thank internally for the blonde being so attentive in these small details.

- Beauty is a family thing, isn't it? - She insinuates, raising her eyebrows, subtly nodding towards the youngest who was now in her grandmother's lap, at the door watching us walk to Wheeler's car.

- You are unbelievable!

That's all I say, before we get in the car and head towards the restaurant located in the heart of the city center and next to San Diego Bay, this establishment is considered one of the best steakhouses in the United States. From what Samantha said, the person who asked for the meeting to take place here was that mysterious businessman. I confess that he has good taste, I would say sophisticated. This just stimulates me more and more, I want to cure my curiosity. As soon as we arrived, we met Jessica at the entrance. It didn't take long for us to get to a reserved table. Wheeler is on my left, while Pearson is ahead.

I chatted with the women at the table while we waited. By the time, I'd say he's running late, which is very unethical on his part. We had arrived even before the scheduled time, to avoid any kind of setback, and he is late? Honestly, it's disrespectful. I hope he has a good excuse.

- Did he say he'd be late? - I question Jessica slightly impatiently.

- We weren't notified.

- Boss, how do we know who he is? - Wheeler asks.

- Well, he said he'd give me a wave as soon as he got there— - Her voice trails off as she looks down the hall to the restaurant. I notice the brunette curl her lips in a modest smile. - Our wait is over.

Her gets up, and I imagine it's to greet him. I return my gaze to the table, taking the wineglass with my fingers, and bringing it to my lips to sip the burgundy-colored drink.

- Donna, we have problems. Oh, my goddamn friend, it's a hell of a problem! - The blonde whispers next to my ear. I suddenly direct my attention to her. I can feel tension surrounding her, and the sudden change in her facial expressions makes me cringe.

- What is it? - I feel my brow furrow as I answer it. - Samantha!

- Oh, shit!

- Goodnight. I apologize for my delay, I had an unforeseen event. - That soft voice, but maintaining a hoarse timbre made all the air dissipate from my lungs, while my entire body stiffens. I close my eyes, feeling every nerve squirm inside me, it hurts. I feel my senses shaken, it's like there's a buzzing around my ears and any sense of reality disintegrates around me. My hands shake on my thighs, and with each passing second I breathe less and less. If it weren't for Samantha who held tight to my hand, snapping me out of my trance, I don't know how I would have managed to do this on my own.

- Are you well? - She asks quietly, and I recover in moments, nodding vaguely.

Good? Oh my God, that's the last thing I could be doing right now. I open my eyes, and I can feel his gaze burning into me. Damn you. I look for any hint of audacity, determination to lift my gaze, but it disappears as I try. My God! No, I can't back off, not now, and let him get to me like this. Lord, I need to react, I need to show him that he no longer has any power over me. With great difficulty I lift my face, and tilt my head to the side, not showing any emotion, other than disdain and indifference. Even though I'm a mess inside, experiencing an inner conflict, I'm determined to make him look at the emptiness through my eyes. I know that I don't need to express in words what I feel, so that he understands me perfectly, because we've always known how to communicate with our eyes. But those onyxes, so deep and… opaque. Damn, they make me falter.

- Harvey.