Author's notes: I want to thank you very much for each one who gave me a little of their time to comment on this story. This was so important to me, it made me want to continue with what I am doing here.

Once again I want to thank my beta (@saraitinha) without her help I couldn't be doing this. Thank you friend, for everything and especially for the encouragement and for enjoying the story. You are amazing!

Chapter 2 - A burning feeling

"Missing someone is loving a past that has not yet passed, It is to refuse a gift that hurts us, It's not seeing the future that invites us." Aguinaldo Silva

Jessica observes them carefully for a few seconds and realizes that the tension that hangs over both was so dense that it could easily be felt in the air. She thought seriously about asking if they both knew each other, because she had been sure that a name had been pronounced from the redhead's lips. Not only that, the way the exchange of glances between the two seemed fiery, "gave away" a lot.

It was a searing look, like splinters being thrown, until one of them can give in and consequently look away. However, she thought that asking about it could cause an unpleasant feeling for both of them and even for herself. But it's not like the uncomfortable aura wasn't already installed at that table. So probably if you did, it wouldn't make much difference. It was obvious that the two had some kind of unresolved history, so there was no point in asking such a question. Samantha, who looked embarrassed and slightly uncomfortable with the current situation, decided not to mention anything about the two of them, so instead, she just reached for the glass of wine, raised it to her lips and swallowed it in one gulp, trying to drown her feelings of guilt and restlessness. Pearson cleared his throat, which caused both Donna and the dark-haired blond man to exchange glances.

- So, are you Harvey? - She asks with a slight smile. He straightens his posture, standing close and facing Jessica.

- That's right. Harvey, Harvey Specter.

- And do you know each other? - She asked without any subtlety. Her tried his best to contain himself, to empty his head of the nagging questions in his mind, but the words practically jumped out of his mouth bluntly. Her curiosity had gotten the better of her.

- Yes.

- No! - They both spoke at the same moment, each one with a different intonation, a different answer on the tip of the tongue. Donna lowered her gaze and placed her hand against her forehead, cursing herself insistently for being at that goddam dinner.

- So Mr. Specter, it's an honor to have you with us tonight. Don't worry about being late, come on, please have a seat. - Jessica shows the seat so Harvey could sit down. Unfortunately for the redhead, she has him in front of her.

In order to dispel any conflict, the oldest at the table begins to pronounce on the matter in question with the businessman. As she spoke, Harvey paid as much attention as possible, removing some doubts, which were soon clarified. Inconsequentially, he insisted on fixing his gaze on Paulsen, in a discreet, subtle way, that could go unnoticed by everyone at the table, including her. However, it was almost impossible for her not to feel his vehement and ardent gaze burning over her. This leaves her disoriented, not knowing how to act or what to say.

Everything was going downhill, and as if it couldn't get worse, the restlessness begins to reach her nerves, as she realizes that the disturbing and warm atmosphere between the two has already been noticed by everyone present at the table. She felt ashamed of it all, wanted to disappear, stick her head in the first hole in the ground she saw. It was a shitty situation her was in. Samantha approaches cautiously, whispering in the redhead's ear.

- Donna, I'm so sorry about this... Shit! - The blonde's annoyance was evident.

- What are you apologizing for? It's not like you knew who he was until now.

- Yeah but I feel your tension from here this hit you more than I expected it would.

- To be quite honest? Even I didn't expect my reaction to be so shitty. - The disappointment with herself was notorious.

- He still messes with you. - That didn't seem like a question, but a statement by Samantha. - By any chance, do you still feel something for him? - She sounded innocent.

That was just a question, no strings attached. However, Donna can't answer right away, as if for a moment she was really doubting her self-imposed feelings towards Harvey. Remembering the pain caused by him, she grows cold, feels empty once more. It is as if there is a lowering of conscience, which makes her realize that she has made a mistake, by doubting all her grudge, lack of love and contempt.

- Only if it's disgusting. - Screams exhaustingly nauseous. - Other than that, I don't feel anything that could be pleasant. - A flawed sigh escapes her lips, as she tries to compose herself. - I'll excuse myself and withdraw, this whole event left me with a headache. - The truth is that Donna couldn't stay another second at the same table as him without thinking about the possibility of throwing up. - Excuse me, boss? - Jessica's gaze lands on the redhead. - I need to leave for a few minutes, do you mind? - She tries to remain firm in her tone of voice, when she realizes that he is now looking at her carefully, as if he wanted to read her through her real intention.

- Of course not, feel free. - A soft smile appears on her lips, in order to give her some kind of comfort.

- Thanks. - She leaves the table with calm steps, but realizing that she was no longer in everyone's field of vision, she accelerates her walk, going to the back of the restaurant. She needed to think, clear her mind, look for air, if she really wanted to get through this dinner without constantly considering running away.

Donna's pov

What the fuck, I sure as hell don't know what to do. Finding myself again after all these years, and in a situation like this, which I really didn't expect, hit me grotesquely, knocked me to the ground, and I feel like I don't have enough strength to get up. It shook me. So I don't have the right words to describe it. I would be lying if I said I didn't feel anything when I saw him. Those feelings of hate, anguish and disappointment melted inside me the second I looked into his eyes. Just remembering the torment he caused me makes me nauseous, agony. My eyes are burning with tears. I was sure I had overcome all this turbulent past, but apparently I've only been fooling myself all these years.

- I imagine that the reason for your absence is my presence. Am I right? - The soft but clearly sarcastic timbre of him makes me gasp heavily, with my eyes closed, I intend to compose myself.

- Don't feel so important, Harvey. - It sounded weak, but I kept the disdain, composed by a humorless smile on my lips. I keep my back to him. I don't want to see him.

- I don't and I.. I'm sorry if that was the impression I gave. I just observe in details, and from my perspective I see no other reason for your sudden "absence".

- What the fuck, what do you want? - I'm harsh, turning around abruptly. Problem is, I didn't expect him to have used those seconds to stay a few millimeters away. I sway, taking a few steps back. I clench my jaw, my breath caught in my throat.

He has both hands in his pants pocket. The blazer of his once closed blue Oxford suit is now open, giving me a view of his dress shirt and black tie. Lifting my face, attentive to your gaze, which for me is indecipherable. His orbs convey rigidity and impetuosity, the severe and authoritarian expression does not abandon him. I don't want to feel shaken, much less intimate by him. In order to keep up, I cross my arms below my bust, and stare at him in the same way. I arch my eyebrows waiting for him to answer the fucking question I asked. But he smirks in that unbearably attractive way, briefly looking away from me.

This asshole can only be wanting to test my limit which has already expired. I shake my head in denial, not resigned to being willing to put up with whatever his jokes are. I sigh, and try to get around his body, but he takes a step forward, crossing my path, almost making me crash into his chest. Heavy gasp, and close my eyes for a few seconds.

- Get out of my way.

- Where are you going?

- Anywhere I can't be here. - I exclaim until my voice fades.

- Can you let your guard down for a moment? Please Donna. - I stare at him in disbelief.

- Why don't you get out of here? Preferably now! - I feel my body boil, my hands shake.

- Well I don't want to. - Retruct with determination.

- Fine then I go! - I'm trying to get around it. I stop my steps when his hand takes me by the arm. - Let me go Harvey.

- I said I won't leave and neither will you.

- I want to see you stop me, Harvey! - I keep my gaze steady on his.

- If that's the case, well, I have my ways…

- Then I want to see you try.

- For God's sake Donna, don't make this easy situation into something impossible. We need to talk, please.

- As far as I know, I have nothing to talk to you about!

- But I have a lot to. You can't imagine how much!

- And unfortunately, I'm not willing to listen to you. - I pull my arm hard from his grip, and return with my steps.

Before I have time to think his arms suddenly encircle my waist, pulling me back, bringing me against his body. My back is against his chest, and his hands squeeze me anguishedly, warming me with their heat. I struggle, digging my nails into his arms, desperately wanting to escape his intense, hard touch. I close my eyes, stopping resisting, as my lungs cry out for air. I hear him gasp deeply, before resting his forehead on my head and burying his face in the back of my neck. His cold lips pressing against my skin, a fervent steam escapes, bristles every hair on my body, ferments every fiber of my being. A moan catches in his throat, making it ache. My legs go weak, my heart is pounding against my chest. I feel broken.

- I'm asking you... to let me go. Please Harvey.

- Donna, no. Please just listen to me.

- No, no, no. I don't want to.

- Don't do this to me, please I'm asking you. - His voice trails off as my eyes sting from the tears that suddenly form, desperate for them to roll down my cheeks.

I can't go on with this, I can't stay here. It's like his touch is burning through my soul, taking out the best in me, sucking out all the air I can breathe. All he manages to cause me now is pain and anguish. I can't take it anymore, so I allow myself to cry. It is a low, weak cry, filled with bitterness.

Harvey managed to reopen my wound.

- Let me go, please, Harvey. Please... - I beg in a whisper.

His arms loosen from me calmly, as if he still wants to stop me from running away, not willing to let me go. He turns me gently towards him, keeping his left hand at my waist, bringing me as close to his body as possible. His right lands on my cheek, his thumb begins a light, gentle caress. He dries every tear that dares to fall. I open my eyes vaguely, watching his dark eyes blurred with tears, saddened and guilty. My hands land on his chest, but I don't feel able to dismiss him like seconds ago. With that, he cautiously brings his face close to mine, brushing our noses, crossing our breaths, as if they could surround us. My body stiffens in his arms, and inconsequential I close my eyes once more.

He gently touches my mouth with his, and my lips press against his in response to the contact. This makes him intensify our kiss, deepening it in a wanting and needy way. I dig my nails into his chest, when his tongue invades me, exploring every corner as if he desperately wanted to taste me. He moans hoarsely against me, and his tongue gives up possession, and gently teases my bottom lip, coaxing me as air rushes between the kiss. When I feel his fingers press my waist vigorously, I realize that I'm crossing the line.

I push him away sharply, lifting my hand, shooting a snapping slap at his face, causing him to turn away abruptly. My fingers mark he skin, turning it red. He touches his face and stares at me, while I breathe out of rhythm from the desperate kiss. I run my hand over my face, taking my fingers between my orange strands, squeezing.

- This is crazy... What the hell you're unbelievable! - Expressed in exaltation, almost going on top of this asshole.

- I...

- Never again, listen carefully - I approach and point my index finger at his face possessed by hatred. - never dare to do that again. Never touch me again, Harvey! - I turn my back.

- I needed to know Donna. - I stop my steps when I hear his voice. I turn sharply, catching my breath. - You're still mine, you never ceased to be. - A lump forms in my throat as I force myself to continue on my way. - You belong with me, and you know it.

[...]

Jessica taps her fingers frantically on the table, trying at all costs to somehow dispel her anxiety. Apparently, Harvey had left after receiving a call. Now Samantha?

She's losing count of how many glasses of wine she's had. Nervousness seeping into her skin, racing her heart system out of control. Jessica, upon realizing that the blonde was exaggerating considerably with alcohol, decides to intervene.

- What is happening? - It is direct in its words.

- What you mean?

- I'm referring to that. - Points to the cup in the youngest's hand. - Why are you nervous?

- I-I'm not nervous. - She stammers, looking away.

- Please, Samantha. Don't get me wrong, but I sensed the tension between those two. - Boss I…- They know each other, don't they? - She sighs, placing the glass on the table, before looking at Jessica. Then she gives a shrug.

- It's hard to explain.

- Samantha. - Donna's voice makes her turn her attention directly to her.

- Donna, is everything okay? - The blonde shows concern for the redhead being panting.

- It's hard to explain. - Fires nervously. Paulsen directs her gaze to the brunette. - Jessica, do you mind if I leave? I really need to go.

- Did something happen?

- Not exactly, I just feel very tired. - She sighs, putting her fingers on her forehead. - I'm not fully willing, and I didn't rest as much as I should, it was a rush during the afternoon, I hope it's not a nuisance. - She looks sideways at Samantha, who shows pleading in her orbs.

- Sure, feel free. I hope you're okay.

- You coming with me?

- Oh, I sure will! - She gets to her feet, slightly dizzy from the drink.

- Good night, boss. - Donna gasps, pulling her by the hand, with hurried steps

- What happened to you? - Asks desperately, being dragged away from the restaurant .

- You have no idea. - After the two women had left the brunette's field of vision, Harvey returned to the table, briefly disconcerted.

Jessica scrutinizes her gaze carefully over him until she notices a not-so-subtle redness stamped across his face. She frowned, biting her lower lip for fear of asking directly what situation he'd gotten himself into to earn that mark. Which wasn't too hard to imagine, considering the exalted way Donna had left.

- Everything all right Mr Specter?

- Oh yes! All good. - Curve your lips in a discreet smile.

- Okay... - Clears his throat, taking a shot of whiskey. - How about we go back where we left off?

- I think it's a great idea.

[...]

Donna's pov

I had begged with some trepidation for Samantha to take me anywhere I could breathe and get my head on straight, so without excitement she brought me to her house. I sat on her couch, curling up like a child, my eyes wandering everywhere, my mind a whirlwind of thoughts. She returned shortly after, with a cup of tea, handing it to me. I thanked her and proceeded to tell her in detail about the recurring events between me and Harvey an hour ago.

- I can not believe. Are you serious? - The surprise in her voice is totally notorious. - Oh my God!

- I'm trying to deal with all this, but my head feels like it's going to explode! - I say pressing the back of my neck, closing my eyes tightly.

- Donna, I don't have words to soften what happened, but if there's one thing I'm sure of, it's that he's a tremendous dick face. - She exclaims in disbelief, as I place the cup on the small coffee table. - You guys broke up 8 years ago. It doesn't enter my mind that Harvey might still harbor feelings for you. Not after what he did!

- Do you think this make any sense to me? Why didn't he move on with his life? Especially with that slut he... Damn, what a son of a bitch! - I tangle my fingers tightly in my hair, in order to take this anger out somehow.

- Hey, you need to calm down. Okay? Getting hysterical won't help you at all. - She sighs, and looks at me thoroughly. - But and you? Did you feel anything?

- Did I? What did I feel? - Samantha rolls her eyes, resting her head on her palm.

- Oh, my friend, don't play dumb. I'm talking about the kiss.

- No! - I say nervously.

- Are you sure?

- Why doubt?

- I don't know, maybe because you mentioned that you corresponded? - Question as if it were obvious. - You have to be honest.

- I don't know, okay? Maybe I reacted on automatic, my body betrayed me in the worst possible way. But I swear, I have nothing more with him it's over. - My throat burns when pronouncing these words. - Seeing him definitely messed me up, that I have to admit. He hurt me, Sam. I clearly fooled myself all these years into thinking it was all behind me, then he shows up and does...does this to me.

- Donn come here. -She pulls me into a hug. - Everything will be fine. - She says, stroking my hair.

- I hope so, because I have more important things to worry about, such as a wedding to organize.

- Of course... Wait a moment, what wedding? - She pushes me away, holding my shoulders, with a confused look.

- I forgot we didn't have enough time to talk. - Sigh. - Well, this doesn't seem like the best time to tell you because of tonight, but anyway... I'm getting married in three months. - She makes a perfect "O" with her lips, while staring at me tormented.

- NO!!! I DON'T BELIEVE! ARE YOU GOING TO MARRY? - I nod, and she advances on top of me, laying me down on the couch. - Congratulations really! You deserve to be happy more than anyone in this world.

- Thanks. Your support is very important to me. - She gets up, helping me to sit again.

- No need to thank, I will always support you. In everything, no matter what. But tell me, who's the lucky one? Is he Sarah's father? - I watch her lips curl into a smug smile.

- Yes, he is my daughter's father. Thomas Klesser, he's a lawyer from New York.

- Holy shit, did you get a lawyer? You sure are lucky.

- I must have some pictures, calm down. - I settle on the sofa, sitting on one leg, stretching my arm until I reach the bag on the table. I take the device, unlocking it, putting it in the gallery, handing it over.

- Donna, he's beautiful, and those blue eyes here... wow, girl! You make a beautiful couple. - Says appreciating the photos. - He's a lucky man to conquer an amazing woman like you.

- Sam taking me out of focus a little, how about you? How is your love life? - I'm curious and she lets out a malicious smile, enticing me.- That little smile... I know.

- Relax. It's still nothing serious, however if I tell you who it is, you won't believe it.

- You know I'm bad at guessing! Come on, open your mouth!

- Someone you don't expect. - Now it's my mouth that makes a perfect "O".

- No no! Are you trying to tell me that you're in a relationship with Travis? TRAVIS TANNER? The idiot tennis player? - I abuse the nickname I gave him when we were young.

- Don't talk like that about him! - I start laughing.

- Okay, okay. But are you really together?

- Basically.

- I can't believe it. I always knew that one day you would take some initiative and give each other a chance. But I confess that, I had my doubts there.

- We're not dating yet. Not that he didn't want to, but I want to take it slow this time. After my relationship with Jeffrey, which was pretty shitty to be honest, I don't intend to act impulsively and anyway, you can imagine the rest.

- It's no secret that I never liked that guy, you deserved better. I just didn't say anything because I knew how much you loved him no matter what I tried to say. You had to see it with your own eyes, I didn't want to intrude on your relationship, even if it hurt me. And wow, Travis does you a world of good. I'm really starting to see the big picture in it.

- Thanks for the support, it makes me relieved. - Her eyes twinkle with emotion.

- As you said before, I'm also here to support you no matter what. - I place a seal on your forehead. - Now I need to go...

- I'll take you home, no problem.

- Thanks. I really need it after today's freak show.

- Days of struggle, days of glory, redhead.

- That is true. There's always a but, isn't there?

- Fate likes to play sometimes, it's up to you to be the best player.

[...]

I wake up a little early. I'm already ready, wearing a plain green midi dress with a crew neckline and a subtle slit on the right side, and my hair is in a messy bun, with a few strands falling down the back of my neck, and in front of my face. I chose not to apply any kind of makeup, just a gloss, and this highlighted the freckles scattered across my face. Before leaving the room, I say goodbye to my daughter, still sleeping, with a kiss, and I go down to the kitchen to find my mother already awake.

- Mrs. you don't sleep, do you? - I ask in a playful tone, moving past her to give her a kiss on the top of the head. I open the top cupboard and look for a cup.

- I ask you the same. Did you arrive late yesterday? - Bring up the subject.

- Yeah a little. - I answer, going to the counter with the cup in hand, about to fill it with coffee.

- And how was dinner? - My breathing falters. (It was terrible, horrible, indigestible, I can easily consider it as one of the worst days of my life.)

- It was okay. - I'm simplistic and direct, sipping the drink. Of course I lied to her. I don't feel like mentioning at all that the businessman we were going to meet was that hunk of people.

- Hum this is good. - Oh shit... I know that tone, she knows I'm hiding something. I just hope she doesn't continue this conversation. - But was that all, Donna? - And she went on. I turn and find her eyes steady on me, sipping her coffee.

- What are you trying to imply, mother? - Aggressive retort, crossing her arms.

- I'm not implying anything kid I just noticed your behavior, it's kind of strange.

- Mom, you're seeing too much for my taste. I told you, it was fine. - I get excited, losing a little patience. Amazing how the subject of Harvey Specter irritatingly makes my mood dip.

- No need to act defensive either, I just asked a question. - She seems slightly upset to me. I sigh heavily, pressing my hand to the back of my neck.

- I'm sorry. I didn't mean to be... rude to you.

- It's okay, don't worry. - Gives a gentle smile, returning to sip from the cup.

- Can I ask you a favor? - Indago trying at all costs to dispel that unpleasant atmosphere that I caused.

- Of course what is it?

- I need to arrive earlier today at the hospital. Could you take Sarah to school and then pick her up for me? I really wouldn't ask you this if I didn't have to.

-Yes I can, I don't see any problem, don't worry. - She reassures me, moving closer to smooth her hand down my back. - You know you can talk to me if you need to. Don't you? - I smile gently at her.

- I know. Thanks! - I look at my wristwatch, seeing that I still have a few minutes before I go. - How about a decent coffee with me today?

- I thought you wouldn't ask for that! - She gasps in relief, making me laugh at her overreaction.

Once I'm done, I head straight to the hospital. When I arrive, I go to the locker room, briefly putting the white coat over it. During the day I had been very busy, full of adrenaline, not stopping for almost anything, just for a quick lunch with Samantha. She had had two emergency surgeries in the morning, cases involving thoracic and abdominal trauma. I'm currently leaving my office after leaving some reports to be filled out on the desk. I needed a coffee to finish my errands, so I headed to the staff lounge. When crossing the corridor, I almost bump into someone, however I am agile and take two steps back, before bumping into anyone. The second I look up, I'm speechless.

- You Must be kidding. - I exude incredulity, smiling in false humor. - What the hell are you doing here? - I shout in a rigid tone, but not too loud. I don't want prying eyes on me because of him.

- You know, routine exams. - Says simplistic, shrugging. I feel his gaze slide across my face in awe. Then he points at me leaving me confused. - I always thought your freckles were beautiful. I don't know why you insisted on hiding them with makeup. - I clear my throat and ignore him.

- I'm going to pretend I believe you came to "routine exams" so I don't tell you to fuck off! - Sarcastic smile, contouring his body.

- Okay, you're right, that was just an excuse.

- Oh, don't tell me? - I hear his footsteps coming, until he advances in front of me.

- Donna.

- What do you want?

- Please have dinner with me tonight. - Sounds as natural as possible. I can't contain a laugh, disbelieving what I just heard. I think I'm deaf.

- What? - He hesitates for a moment, but soon recovers.

- I... I'm asking you to dinner.

- You're just going crazy! - I try to go on my way, but Harvey insistently stops me. - My God...

- I don't see anything wrong with a dinner between friends.

- Friends? - Hey? Did he really say that? It can only be a joke. - Did you hit your head? Did you go crazy for good? - I shake my head in disbelief. - We are nothing, where did you get this nonsense?

- Please make it a little easier. - I bite my bottom lip, staring at his face.

- The answer is no. - Snort, contouring his body so that I can walk again.

- Donna... - He says my name slyly, until he stops in front of me like a pole again.

- I'm not having dinner with you, Harvey!

- And why not?

- My God, didn't that mark of my fingers on your face show you where we are? - I say when observing the red still a little visible on his cheek. Wow, I almost felt sorry for you. Almost...

- Actually, it just stoked me on, if you want me to be honest with you. - Smiling cheekily, smugly.

- Oh my God! This has to be a joke.

- Will you have dinner with me or not?

- The answer is no! - I go around once more, walking again.

- Hey, the drinks are on me.

- I said no! - He touches his fingers to mine, intertwining them gently, while his thumb strokes the back of my hand. I turn my face to look him in the eyes. I suck in my breath so deeply, it makes the bones of my collarbone show beneath my skin. - Harvey...

- What are you afraid? - His sudden words confuse me.

- What? I'm not afraid of anything.

- Then prove it. If you agree to have dinner with me, I will know that you don't mind my presence, that I no longer have any power over you.

- Still with that?

- After that kiss, a lot goes through my head, Donna. And one of them is that I'm still right there. - He points to my heart.

- You doesn't know what saying.

- Really? - It's shrewd, his eyes scrutinize me, waiting for me to falter.

- Mommy? - Before I can continue with my speech, Sarah's voice calling out to me briefly pulls my attention away from the him.

She approaches cautiously and I'm pretty sure that made my heart miss the beats to the point of stopping. Breathing starts to accelerate, so that it becomes deregulated, causing me shortness of breath. She shouldn't be here.

She shouldn't... see him.

The little redhead continues her steps until she is very close to me. I see her green eyes move discreetly to where our hands are still together. Shit! I release my hand from his grip and cross my arms, not looking at him since the moment my daughter arrived. But I feel the sensation of his gaze burning into me.

- Hey honey. - I smile disconcerted, crouching down so I could be at her height. I take my hands a little shaky to her face and kiss her right there. I notice she's still in her school uniform, which means she left school straight here. - Why are you here?

- I asked grandma to bring me. - Answer sweetly. - I didn't see you arrive yesterday, and I didn't see you in the morning either. I missed you. - I smile weakly, smoothing her cheek. - Mom... - She murmurs, shifting her gaze between me and Harvey. God, I feel like I might have a heart attack.

- Yes? - I try to stay centered.

- Who is this man? And why was he holding your hand like that? - Her looks at me with narrowed eyes. That way? That way? My God, I need to calm down. I can't let her question mislead me. For a moment I don't know what to say to her, so I open my mouth to let the first thing that comes into my mind come out.

- He? He-he's... well, he's...

- Your Friend?

- In truth...

- Yes, I'm her friend. - I feel your voice right next to my ear, making every hair on my body stand up. When I tilt my face to the side, he's crouched beside me, that smile around his lips that makes me slightly embarrassed. Damn pretty smile.

- And may I know what your name is? - She narrows her eyes at him crossing her arms and curling her small lips.

- Look, as aggressive as her mother... - I hear him whisper, so I give him a light elbow in his belly making him grunt in pain. - My name is Harvey. - He replied with a smile on his face. - And you young lady, who are you?

- I'm her daughter! - It's the first time I've seen Sarah on the defensive, like she's trying to mark her territory... I'm, to say the least, surprised to see this side of her.

- And does Donna's daughter have a name? - God, he's using irony with a child? I'm not believing this.

- My name is Sarah, Harvey. - My eyebrows jump as I watch her act so maturely for a child her age.

- Sarah... - Babbles staring at her from head to toe. - That's a great name, it suits you.

- Harvey! - I reproach him, staring at him with disapproval.

- What?

- May I know what you want with my mother, Harvey? - Our attention returns to her.

- Of course you can, give me a little license there, go! - Pushes me to the side, to face her. I jump to my feet in shock at what I'm witnessing. Who does he think he is? - Do you believe that your mother here was forcing me humiliate myself, crawling on the floor, begging like crazy for her to have dinner with me? And yet she's turning down my simple invitation? - Hold on, what? What is this ridiculous theatrics that Harvey is doing? - You know, I'm totally upset about this, I don't deserve to be treated that way. I'm so cool.

He pretends he's on the verge of tears, putting his hand over his face, sniffling his nose. I can't believe what I'm seeing, this is a joke. Does he really think he's going to convince my daughter with all this acting...? Yeah she's believing in it. His little eyes convey pity, as if he were a poor guy and I was the villain here.

- I just wanted to spend time with her, you know what I mean? - Is he not ashamed about deceiving a child for his own benefit? - We haven't seen each other for so long. And even I met with her last night, a business dinner is not a place for two friends to talk, don't you agree? - I lift him by the shirt abruptly, making him face me. - Hey, calm down! Slow down little redhead.

- You better stop your little show!

- So you're the "mystery man" that my mother was going to meet yesterday? - What? Wow, that kid is fast. I look over at Harvey and see a sly smile spread across his lips.

- "Mystery man", is it? I didn't know you referred to me that way. It's quite intriguing... - He approaches my face, whispering in my ear. - and sexy. - Teases me, making my blood boil.

- I'll give you 5 seconds to get out of here.

- Only if you accept my offer, right Sarah? - I pull him back to look at me.

- Leave my daughter out of this.

- Please, Donna.

- My God, you are tireless!

- Just say yes.

- You're not really going to take "no" for an answer, are you?

- I thought that was already clear. - I'm not really considering submitting to that, am I?

- You can go, Mom.

- What? - We say in unison, surprised - at least I was - by the youngest's speech.

- You're friends, aren't you? - I glance briefly at Harvey but refrain from answering. - So it's okay for you to go out with him, I'll let you. - She shrugs, this time fixing the pair of eyes on him. - I also don't want to see a man that size crying like a child. - Shoots staring at him with a face of judgment. He frowned at her in disbelief. I let out a weak laugh, but then stop myself.

- It hurt, you know? - He mutters, looking away.

- Okay, fine. You won. - Why on earth am I doing this? What am I going crazy?

- Excellent. - He gets out of my grip, fixing his shirt. - I'll pick you up at 8:00 pm, are you still living in the same place? - I nod my head lazily. - All right, see you later. - He walks away with a satisfied smile, crouching down briefly towards Sarah, raising his fist so that she can bump hers against his. - Thanks for the help, pepper. - My breathing falters considerably when I hear him call her the nickname I gave her. My eyelids fluttered for a moment, my throat went dry. I look away suddenly, unable to digest that moment.

I snap out of my trance when I feel my mother's hand on my shoulder.

- Is everything ok? - I look a little lost, trying to compose myself, if possible. How long have I been like this...?

- I... yes, I am. I am fine! Where is Sarah? - I look around and I can't find her.

- She went to one of those machines to buy water.

- Alone? - I ask not containing my despair.

- Yes, alone. - My mother looks at me worriedly. - Who else would I go with? - I open my mouth, but I close it again. I don't want to mention that encounter. At least, not for now. I rest my hand on my forehead, take a deep breath, and try to relax.

- You're right. - I smile weakly. - You are completely right.

[…]

Now that I'm alone, I want to figure out what the fuck I'm trying to do with my life. I sigh heavily, showing stiffness in my gait. I'm so fucking pissed about this shit, I'm so dumb! I open the door sharply, feeling Samantha's frightened gaze on me.

- What animal bit you?

- I wish it were, but no, my life can be worse!

- What happened this time?

- You won't believe who I bumped into in the hall. - I cross my arms, smiling nervously.

- Oh my God! Don't tell me… Harvey? - Question fearfully and I nod in agreement. - Holy shit, huh! You just fuck yourself.

- And fuck it up. And to make matters worse, guess what? he invited me to dinner. Do you believe it? Because I don't!

- You refused, right? Obvious. - Curl your lips, resting your hand on your waist. The guilty look giving me away.

- Then...

- Donna...

- I was going to refuse, okay? I wasn't going to accept his invitation, but then Sarah showed up, and he did a whole theatrics...

- Calm down, Sarah was here? And she saw Harvey? - She looks stunned. - It's a lot of information.

- To sum it all up, Harvey got her to go along with this whole dinner antics. Do you believe it? My daughter in favor of him? I-I couldn't say no to her!

- Yeah... you're crazy! - She is incredulous, which is not for less.

- It was for Sarah, give me a discount! - Samantha looks at me not very convinced. - He was also teasing me and insisting, that annoying one made me give in! - I get excited, gesticulating with my hands. - I swear he didn't want to, but he wasn't willing to take "no" for an answer.

- This is not going to work. Listen to what I'm saying.

- You think I don't know? What do you expect to happen with the two of us being in the same place for a few hours and alone? Pretending we're buddies? Please, we're like two live wires about to catch fire!

- Look, you can overcome yourself sometimes.

- What I'll do?

- You have two options. Either try to have a decent dinner with Harvey or give up on this crazy idea.

- What if I can't opt for the first option?

- I can only wish you luck.

- Thing I haven't been having lately.