A/N: So it's been a while. To make up for that an extra long chapter. I hope to finish this by Christmas, fingers crossed! Leave me a review to fuel writing the ending.
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Donna: I can be your "temp" until Christmas but I only work school hours.
The Boss: Not sure those hours work for me
Donna: Your hours don't work for Rachel either. Let me remind her of that.
The Boss: Are you blackmailing me to take you on as temp?
Donna: Blackmail? Nooooo! Badger maybe.
The Boss: Badgering me to work fewer hours? Shocking. And here I thought you'd be dedicated.
Donna: Dedicated? I'm bringing coffee and my award-winning organizational skills. How much more dedication could you possibly need?
The Boss: I need dedication that works my hours.
Donna: Harvey, I have a child, remember? Not everyone lives on 3 AM calls and strong coffee.
The Boss: Then maybe temping for me is too "high-octane" for your lifestyle.
Donna: Oh, please. I could run that place with my eyes closed. If you want your filing, inbox, and calendar to survive the holiday season, I'm your best shot.
The Boss: You know, I think I liked you better before you had all this leverage.
Donna: And I think I liked you better when you pretended to be invincible.
The Boss: Bold of you to assume I need saving.
Donna: Oh you don't need saving. You're Harvey Specter but even you know you could use a hand sometimes. So, are we doing this or not?
The Boss: Fine. You work school hours, but you're on call for emergencies.
Donna: Works for me. Just don't make me regret thinking you're worth the effort.
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It is so early the sun hasn't even risen yet on this cold winter day when Donna steps into the Pearson Hardman Headquarters at 7am with a yawning Olivia in tow. This time an employee pass is waiting for her at security and she feels a bit giddy clipping it to her skirt while stepping into the huge elevators.
Surprisingly enough the place is already buzzing with energy. Associates shuffle quickly through the halls, their footsteps muffled by the plush carpets as they clutch files and coffee cups.
They make their way to the sleek space of pristine glass and polished wood that is Harvey's office.
Donna helps Olivia take off her mittens and scarf and out of her winter coat.
"This place is warmer than our apartment," Olivia mumbles, fanning her face.
Donna's cheeks flare a crimson red. The electric baseboard heating system costs an arm and a leg even in their tiny apartment so she's been really sparse with turning it on. She instantly promises herself to make their living space warm and toasty tonight. They can afford it this winter.
Olivia scoots a chair close enough to Donna's desk, climbs on top of it and slumps forward, resting her head on the desk.
Donna fires up the computer, uses the login credentials security handed to her in a sealed envelope and opens Harvey's calendar. She tuts at the mess that is his agenda and immediately starts rearranging everything.
At 7:25am she prints off Harvey's calendar, remembering Rachel bemoaning Harvey's old fashioned love for paper, Olivia is still zonked out next to her so she makes a quick trip to the kitchen and comes back with two steaming mugs of coffee.
At 7:30 sharp Harvey rounds the hallway corner, surprised by the glow of the already humming computer at the secretary desk in front of his office. He frowns at the 3'9 high pile of schoolgirl softly snoring away in the cubicle.
Donna is waiting in front of Harvey's desk, wearing a black and white floral top and tweed skirt. She bought some outfits at a good consignment store, not wanting to show the office the clothes for the Hamptons trip already. She clutches a cup of coffee and a folder of files, her face set in a calm expression, but there's a glint of excitement in her eyes. She's here on her own terms, yet stepping into the kind of high-stakes environment she's missed more than she's willing to admit.
Harvey does a soft tilt of the head as he approaches her and she holds up the cup of coffee.
"Black, two sugars and a splash of vanilla."
"How do you know that is how I take my coffee?"
Donna gives him a subtle look, crossing her arms and leaning one hip against the edge of his desk.
"The same way I know you're not going to that 8am client meeting," she replies, her voice confident.
"You know I'm not going to that meeting because I showed up here," Harvey gestures at the office surrounding them.
Donna rolls her eyes, unperturbed by his attempt to downplay her instincts.
"No, Mr. Specter. I knew you weren't going the second I saw it on your calendar. You don't take meetings, you set them."
"You really think you know me that well?"
"I told you. I know people better than they know themselves."
There's a charged silence between them before Harvey glances at the stack of files she's brought in. "Anything in there you think I should actually care about?"
Donna shrugs casually, organizing a few papers.
"Oh, a few things. But I figured I'd filter out the boring stuff so you don't waste time. Consider it a perk of working with me."
Harvey quirks an eyebrow. "And what exactly are you filtering out?"
Donna arches an eyebrow right back. "Do you really care?"
Harvey smirks. "Not a bit."
"Now here's the deal," Donna continues. "I'll take a bullet for you." She takes a step closer. "And I don't mean that literally."
"But what you do for me is," she pauses, meeting his gaze, "when I need something, you give it to me. It's not just a one-way street." She lets the words hang in the air..
He gives her a hard stare.
"After the past week, what more could you want from me? A private jet?"
Donna shrugs nonchalantly.
"Well, I wouldn't say no to one. But I'll settle for having Olivia around for the day."
"Olivia? What's going on?"
"It's Teacher's Day at her school. I totally forgot, and now they're off for the day. I can't just leave her at home alone."
Harvey's expression softens slightly. "So, what, you need me to babysit her while you work?"
Donna shakes her head. "I'm not asking you to babysit. But it would be great if Olivia could hang out here for the day. She can sit quietly, do some homework, whatever. But I can't exactly leave her running around at home unsupervised."
Harvey thinks it over for a second, then relents.
"Alright, fine. Let her hang out in the corner or whatever. But if she starts throwing paper airplanes at me, I'm sending you both home.
Grinning, Donna nods in compliance.
"Will you also do some actual secretarial work?" he questions her.
Donna slides the calendar closer for him to see.
"Take a look at what I did with your calendar there, hotshot."
Harvey steps closer, leaning in to inspect the changes she's made. His eyes widen in surprise. Everything is perfectly organized. No loose ends, no overlapping meetings. Just flawless efficiency.
"Holy shit," he mutters, clearly impressed. "When'd you get that done?"
Donna chuckles lightly, her voice confident. "I told you I'm not like every other secretary. I'm Donna."
Harvey looks appreciatively. "Then let's get to work. But for the record, I don't take vanilla with my coffee."
He takes the cup from Donna anyway and sits down at his desk.
"You will after you taste that," Donna mumbles as she struts out of his office.
"Oh my god, this is awesome," Harvey exclaims when taking a sip.
"When will they learn," Donna smiles smugly sitting down at her own desk.
An hour later Olivia has woken up and she has been drawing colorful pictures in Paint on Donna's computer while Donna was processing all the postal mail.
"I need my computer now, Liv. Time to get you settled at a table for some homework."
Olivia grabs her backpack and follows Donna.
Donna knocks on Harvey's office door, pushing it open before waiting for a response.
Harvey is sitting at his desk, engrossed in a file, but he looks up as they enter.
"Well," Harvey says, his tone dry but tinged with amusement, "I didn't know my new secretary came with an entourage."
"Only the best temps come with a personal assistant, Harvey." A playful smile curves on Donna's lips.
Harvey's gaze shifts to Olivia. He gives her a small wave and he is rewarded with a huge smile and frantic wave in return.
"And what's her hourly rate?"
Olivia's face lights up as she giggles, and Donna ruffles her hair affectionately.
"She works for candy canes and chocolate chip cookies. But I'll warn you, she doesn't come cheap."
Harvey chuckles, finally tearing his attention from the file.
"Noted." He glances at Olivia. "How about a drawing to hang on my wall?"
"Sure," Olivia nods. "That'll be one hot chocolate with three marshmallows."
"One marshmallow," Harvey argues, knowing Donna wouldn't want too much sugar in the kid this early in the day.
"Two and a swirl of whipped cream," Olivia counters.
Harvey shakes his head. "It's not even 10am and I'm losing a negotiation with a six year old."
Donna beams. "Hey, nobody said working with me would be boring."
"Only two more weeks 'till Christmas, right?" Harvey rolls his eyes.
"Depends. Maybe I'll be too valuable to let go by then." Donna winks.
Olivia giggles, her eyes flashing between Harvey and Donna as they go back and forth.
Before Harvey can respond, she speaks up. "So do I get that hot chocolate?"
Donna laughs, pulling out a few workbooks from her bag. She sets Olivia up on the coffee table.
"When you've finished all your homework quietly."
Olivia gets to work and Donna turns back to Harvey.
"Right," she says, crossing her arms, "first order of business?"
Harvey refocuses on his laptop and begins rattling off a list of tasks, his tone firm but with an underlying warmth.
" Alright, here's what we've got. First, I need you to—"
He pauses, glancing up to make sure she's following. "You good?"
Donna flutters her eyelashes. "I'm always good."
Harvey chuckles. "Don't get too cocky. There's a lot to do today."
"Don't worry, I've got it covered." Donna grins, already in her element.
…
As the day progresses, Donna settles into her role seamlessly. She moves through the office with confidence, the phone never far from her ear as she arranges meetings, organizes files, and keeps Harvey on track.
At one point, Louis surfaces. He tries to appear casual, but there's a calculating glint in his eyes as he glances into Harvey's office where Olivia is bend over her homework.
"Donna," he says, offering a strained smile. "Nice to see you… and your little helper."
Donna glances up from her desk. "Louis. Can I help you with something?" she asks politely.
"Oh, nothing," he says, waving a hand. "I heard through the grapevine that Harvey's girlfriend is now also his secretary. Just thought I'd check in, see how you're finding your new… responsibilities."
"It's nothing I can't handle. Harvey's desk already looks better, doesn't it?" Donna's smile is tight, knowing he's probing for information.
"Ah, well, just don't get too comfortable. Things tend to change fast around here." Louis gives a tense laugh.
Donna merely raises an eyebrow, unimpressed by his thinly veiled warning.
"Trust me, Louis, I know exactly how things work here. And Harvey's lucky to have me at his desk… even if it's just until Christmas."
Louis's smile falters slightly, sensing her defensiveness, and with a final look into the corner office, he mutters a goodbye and leaves.
Once he's gone, Olivia appears at Donna's side whispering, "Aunt Donna, he's… weird."
Donna chuckles, giving Olivia a conspiratorial wink.
"You're not wrong, kiddo. Stick with me because this place is filled with high-powered lawyers and trust me, some of them bite."
…
It is nearly time for Donna and Olivia to head home so Donna is tying up some loose ends with Harvey when the door to his office swings open, and Jessica strides in, even with her heels sinking away in the carpet, she is a towering presence. She stops short, her gaze landing on Olivia, who's seated quietly in the corner with her coloring book and a juice box, glancing up curiously at Jessica. Donna sits nearby, with a notepad, while Harvey remains calm and collected at his desk.
Jessica narrows her eyes, looking irritated. "Harvey, what exactly is this?"
Without missing a beat, Harvey glances up. "It's Teacher's Day. Olivia's hanging out for a few hours while Donna takes care of the work."
Jessica's lips press into a thin line as she studies the scene.
"I'm all for you playing family man for the sake of the name partnership, but this? A daycare setup in the middle of the office?" She looks over at Donna, giving her a pointed glance. "And what exactly does this say about our corporate identity?"
"Olivia's not disrupting anything, Jessica. She's keeping to herself, and the work's still getting done."
Jessica's frown deepens as she turns to Harvey.
"Harvey, I understand the need to sell the family image, but this isn't exactly what I had in mind. It's supposed to look polished, stable—professional."
Just then, Olivia looks up, sensing the tension. She glances between Donna and Harvey, her eyes wide.
"Are we a family now?… Does this mean Harvey is going to be my new dad?"
Jessica's expression freezes, and Harvey jerks his head back, caught off guard.
"Your dad?"
Olivia nods, looking up at him expectantly.
"You are taking us to the Hampton's. I thought maybe if you were to be Aunt Donna's boyfriend, I might get a sister."
Donna's cheeks flush slightly, but she tries to play it off.
"Sweetheart, Harvey's just a friend."
"Because he's a lesbian, I know." Olivia heaves a large sigh.
Jessica's eyes widen, and Harvey turns to Donna with an incredulous look.
"A lesbian, Donna?"
"Seemed easier to explain our agreement this way." Donna laughs nervously.
Jessica closes her eyes briefly, clearly at the end of her patience.
"Harvey, you see what I mean? We're trying to create the picture-perfect family facade, and meanwhile, we have this…" She gestures toward Olivia and Donna, taking in the whole scene.
Olivia, still trying to work it out, looks up at Harvey.
"So, no sister?" she says, hope seeping away slowly.
Harvey shakes his head, meeting her gaze.
"Sorry, kiddo. We're just friends."
Jessica takes a deep breath, her tone growing sharper as she addresses both of them.
"Look, you want to keep playing pretend, fine but there is no room for misunderstandings. Keep it clear. Respectable, comme il faut."
Donna gives Jessica a small nod.
"Got it, Jessica. No more misunderstandings."
Jessica casts one last look between them before heading for the door.
"Good. We don't need more friends creating… confusion."
Once she's gone, Harvey glances at Donna, a smirk forming.
"A lesbian? Really?"
"It did the job."
"You know she's going to bring this up later, right?"
Donna pats him on the shoulder with a grin.
"Relax, 'Dad', that'll be for me to handle."
"That's exactly what I'm worried about," Harvey groans.
…
On Monday morning Donna storms into Harvey's office, her cheeks flushed with irritation. She doesn't even bother with a knock. Harvey glances up from his desk, entirely unbothered, the corners of his mouth already curling into that infuriating smirk of his.
"Donna," he says casually, leaning back in his chair. "To what do I owe the pleasure?"
She marches straight to his desk, slapping her hands down on the edge and leaning forward.
"We need to talk. Now."
"Let me guess, you're here to thank me?"
Donna lets out a sharp, humorless laugh.
"Thank you? For what, exactly? For buying Olivia a brand-new, state-of-the-art bike when her old one just needed a simple tune-up?"
"It's a nice bike. I assume she is happy with it. Problem solved."
"She would've been happy if you'd just fixed the one she already had!" Donna fires back, her voice rising. "She picked out those streamers herself, Harvey. All she wanted was to keep riding her bike, not some fancy replacement you had delivered like a gift from the gods. And, by the way, her favorite color is purple, not red."
"Red's a power color. She'll love it eventually." Harvey frowns.
Donna straightens up, crossing her arms tightly over her chest.
"She doesn't need a power color, Harvey. She needs people to listen to her. And to me, for that matter."
Harvey sighs and rubs the back of his neck.
"Alright, the bike might've been overkill, but at least it's practical. I thought I was helping."
"Helping?" Donna echoes incredulously. "Oh, like the bake sale on Friday where you unbeknownst to me had twenty artisan cheesecakes delivered that were so obviously store-bought Miss Graham wouldn't even look at me?"
"They raised a lot of money. Isn't that the point?" Harvey's expression is blank.
Donna's voice tightens. "The point, Harvey, is that a bake sale is about community. It's about putting in effort, not swiping your black card and outsourcing everything. I had to endure people muttering behind my back about how I'm too good to bake brownies. And I get enough muttering on a regular day as it is. Not to mention the box of brownies I had to haul around in my bag all afternoon as I couldn't whip 'm out anymore after your little stunt."
"I thought you could use a little help." Harvey doesn't entirely understand where the anger is coming from.
"Not the point!" Donna snaps, cutting him off. "And let's not forget the movie theater yesterday."
Harvey sits up straighter, clearly trying to suppress a grin.
"The penguins? I know Olivia loved that movie."
"She loved the movie," Donna says through gritted teeth. "But she spent half of it asking why we were the only ones there. You rented out an entire theater for a kids' movie! Do you know how hard it was to explain to her why other families couldn't come?"
Harvey shrugs, as if baffled by her outrage. "It was a crowded weekend. I thought I'd make it easier for you."
Donna glares at him, her voice dropping to a dangerously low tone. "Easier? You're not making anything easier, Harvey. You're throwing money at everything without thinking about what we actually need. Olivia doesn't need extravagance; she needs people to show up, pay attention, and be present."
Harvey pauses, her words sinking in. "You're right," he admits after a beat, his voice quieter. "I went overboard."
"Damn right you did," Donna mutters, spinning on her heel to leave.
Before she reaches the door, Harvey calls after her.
"What about the bike? Should I take it back?"
Donna stops, glancing over her shoulder.
"Fix the old one. Olivia wants to learn how to do it herself."
Harvey nods. "Got it. But for the record, the penguins were worth it."
"You're impossible," Donna grumbles before striding out.
"Timeless," Harvey calls after her, his voice laced with amusement.
…
The week has flown by and it is Thursday afternoon when Donna glances at the clock in the corner of her computer screen, mentally calculating how much time she has before she needs to pick up Olivia. She's already halfway out of her chair when Mike comes running past with Rachel in tow.
They swing open Harvey's door open with a bang.
"Harvey!" Mike's face is pale and frantic. "We've got a problem."
Harvey, nursing a Scotch, leans back in his chair, raising an eyebrow.
"Want to try that again without the dramatics?"
Mike gulps, shoving a thick file onto Harvey's desk.
"Opposing counsel just dumped this on us. Surveillance footage. Emails. Depositions. All of it's new evidence. They claim it's just been uncovered."
Donna freezes mid-step, her hand hovering over her bag. "You've got to be kidding me."
Harvey opens the file, flipping through the documents. His jaw tightens as his sharp eyes scan the pages.
"They held onto this deliberately, waiting until the last minute to catch us off guard. Classic Tanner maneuver."
Rachel shifts nervously. "The judge is expecting our arguments tomorrow morning. If we don't incorporate this, it'll look like we're ignoring evidence. But if we do, we're scrambling against the clock."
Donna steps into the office. "Okay, so what's the plan?"
"We tear this apart piece by piece, find the weaknesses, and use it to our advantage." He turns toward Mike. "Get a team together. Start flagging anything that doesn't add up. I want a summary in an hour." Harvey's voice is calm but demanding.
Mike and Rachel nod and bolt out the door.
Harvey looks at Donna. "I'm going to need you to—"
"Don't even bother finishing that sentence," Donna says, tossing her coat and handbag on a nearby chair. "I know what you're going to say."
Harvey hesitates, his gaze flickering to her. "I know you've got Olivia but—"
"This is an emergency. I get it. Liv's at my neighbor's for another hour, but I'm going to need to borrow Ray," Donna says briskly, already scanning the documents. "You focus on the big picture. I'll make sure you have everything you need."
Harvey nods, his voice quieter. "Thanks, Donna. And Ray is all yours."
"Don't thank me yet. Let's see if we can turn this mess into a win first."
The next hour blurs into a frenzy of activity. Donna sets up a war room in Harvey's office, fielding calls, organizing evidence, and coordinating with the team. She flags key points in the footage, creates timelines for the emails, and prints out deposition summaries, color-coded and neatly tabbed.
"Aunt Donna!" Donna's favorite tiny voice bellows before Olivia even reaches the office. Donna quickly gets up to catch her little whirlwind.
"Mrs. Cunningham and I came with Ray, Harvey's driver. All the kids in the neighborhood were watching when we got into the posh car."
Ray and Mrs. Cunningham follow suit and Donna ushers them to the couch in the corner of Harvey's office. "Thank you both for this."
"Just doing my job but with better company in the backseat," Ray responds.
Across the room Harvey shoots him an unimpressed look.
"It's quite an upgrade from the subway, dear," Mrs Cunningham giggles.
"Ahem," Jessica is standing in the doorway, her expression a mixture of irritation and disbelief. Her eyes sweep the room and her gaze lands on an unusual sight.
Olivia is seated on Rachel's lap at the office table, happily munching on a cookie from the platter Donna confiscated from the partners kitchen to give them some sustenance while working hard.
And on the couch she finds Ray and Mrs. Cunningham. An elderly woman dressed in a floral blouse and pearl earrings, her handbag perched delicately on her lap. Donna sits across from them in a leather chair.
Jessica blinks. "Harvey." Her tone is clipped. "Explain this."
Harvey doesn't look up from his paperwork.
"Jessica, this is Olivia. You've met her. And Ray, you've met him too. And this…" He gestures vaguely at Mrs. Cunningham. "…is Mrs. Cunningham. She's Donna's neighbor."
"Lovely to meet you, dear. My, this office is very grand. You must be the one in charge." Mrs. Cunningham beams, clutching her bag tightly.
Jessica's jaw tightens. "Donna, care to elaborate why we now have a daycare and a senior center at my law firm?"
"Well, Olivia was with Mrs. Cunningham when we received the news about the previously undisclosed evidence so Harvey needed me to stay. But Mrs. Cunningham has a doctor's appointment so Ray brought them here and now Ray is taking Mrs. Cunningham to her appointment. It is the least we can do."
Jessica's eyebrow arches. "So now Harvey's driver is moonlighting as an Uber for your neighbor?"
"We're just returning the favor," Donna replies. "I wasn't going to let Olivia ride alone in a car with Ray. No offense," she shrugs at him.
He raises his hands. "None taken."
"It's a very important checkup," Donna continues, "and she was going to miss it helping us out. Besides, Mrs. Cunningham deserves the best. Don't you agree, Harvey?"
Harvey looks up. "Absolutely. Ray's the best chauffeur in the city."
"Oh, it's so fancy! I've never been in a car that smelled like fresh leather and didn't have crumbs in the backseat." Mrs. Cunningham clasps her hands together in delight.
Jessica's lips press into a thin line as she glances between Harvey, Donna, Olivia, and Mrs. Cunningham.
"This is a law office, not a community center. We're running a multimillion-dollar firm, not a neighborhood carpool."
Donna tilts her head, her smile unrelenting. "I'd argue that this is just the PR Harvey needs. We're showing the partners that Harvey cares about family and the elderly."
"Is Mrs. Cunningham part of the family now too?" Olivia pipes up.
Harvey leans back in his chair with a smile. "Why not? The more, the merrier."
Jessica shoots him a glare that could freeze water.
"I'm not laughing."
Harvey remains unfazed.
"Relax, Jessica. Ray will have her back in time for bingo or tea or whatever she has planned after the doctor's. No harm done." He flashes Jessica a cheeky grin.
Mrs. Cunningham stands, adjusting her handbag.
"I appreciate the ride, young man. You're all so kind. I'll be sure to tell my bridge club about this. Very fancy service indeed!"
Jessica pinches the bridge of her nose.
"Donna, this is the last time. No more unexpected guests, no matter how charming or delightful they may be."
"Understood, boss."
Jessica's eyes are spewing daggers by now.
Mrs. Cunningham exits with Ray and Olivia turns to Jessica with wide, innocent eyes.
"Do you need a ride too? Ray's really nice!"
Jessica exhales sharply, her voice cold. "No, thank you." She turns on her heel, muttering as she leaves. "This better not become a habit."
Once the door shuts, Harvey looks at Donna.
"You're pushing your luck."
"She'll never have to see me again after Christmas anyway," Donna remarks in earnest, failing to notice Harvey's crestfallen face as she joins the others at the table.
They pause to eat some takeout, Olivia gets a hot chocolate too because she's been quietly coloring, not bothering anyone and then they continue plowing through the many new documents trying to help Harvey rebuild his case.
"Harvey," a small voice whispers next to him.
Harvey looks down to the little girl at his side. "Yes?"
"Are we still friends after Christmas?" Olivia asks.
Harvey nods. "Sure."
"Good." Olivia hums her approval. "Our life has been so much more fun since we met you."
Donna sitting nearby pretends to be engrossed in a document but she is quietly listening to this exchange.
Harvey has a lot of thoughts about a corporate lawyer bringing joy to a six year old but he just softly pushes Olivia's nose. "You're my favorite tiny human."
"I'm the only tiny human you know."
"Not true. I have a niece and nephew," Harvey discloses.
"Then why aren't you spending Christmas with them?" Olivia looks at him innocently.
Mike, Rachel and Donna share a look between them.
Harvey glances at their table before answering. "It's complicated. That's just how things go sometimes when you get older."
Olivia gives a serious nod, like she understands it all.
"Aunt Donna says family relations can be complex. But I think it's easy. If you can't be with your family for Christmas, we'll be your family."
Before any of the grownups can interject, Olivia rolls her eyes. "I know, only for Christmas. But look!" She brings out a drawing.
"This is me and that's you." She points excitedly. "And Aunt Donna. And over there Rachel and Mike." She gestures at two figures on the side.
"The resemblance is uncanny," Harvey agrees. "And that giant Christmas tree next to them is the cherry on top. Can I put it up on my wall?"
Olivia's eyes start to glimmer. "Next to that duck painting is a spot."
"Maybe it's a crocodile." Harvey hands her the tape dispenser.
"That snout is a duck."
"Look at its tail."
Simultaneously with Olivia all other heads in the room swivel to the infamous painting.
Donna's lips twitch as she tries to suppress a laugh, but it's Mike who breaks first, snorting into his coffee. "I've been saying it for years, Harvey. That thing is a duck. You're just too stubborn to admit it."
"I'm saying a crocodile is an option," Harvey insists. He points at the painting. "Look at the texture on its tail. Ducks don't even have tails."
Olivia squints at the painting "Maybe it's both. A duckodile!"
This earns her a round of laughter from everyone but Harvey.
Olivia crosses her arms, still staring at the wall.
"I really do think it's definitely a duck. A very… long duck."
Harvey sighs, rubbing his temples. "It's not a duck."
Mike tuts, leaning back in his chair. "You know, for a guy who prides himself on being right all the time, you sure picked the world's most ambiguous art piece."
"I didn't pick it. It was given to me. And for the record, it's not a duck. Or a crocodile."
"Oh, so you finally know what it is?" Mike says mockingly.
Harvey glances toward the painting, his voice softening. "I know because my mom painted it."
The room falls into a stunned silence, the playful atmosphere shifting in an instant. Even Olivia's wide-eyed curiosity dims as everyone looks at Harvey in surprise.
Donna is the first to speak. "Your mom painted it?"
Harvey nods, but he doesn't meet anyone's eyes. "Yeah. She made it when I was young." He shrugs, as if it's no big deal, but the tension in his shoulders tells a different story. "Said it was abstract. 'Open to interpretation'."
Mike, breaking the silence, sits forward. "So you've just been sitting on that? Letting us argue about it for years without saying a word?"
"It's called patience, Mike. You should try it sometime."
Donna studies him carefully. "So… what do you see in it?"
Harvey exhales sharply. "I don't see anything. That's the point. She said it's not about what you see, it's about what you feel."
Rachel frowns, glancing between Harvey and the painting. "That's actually… kind of beautiful."
Donna tilts her head. "Your mom gave you this. You've had it here all these years, but you don't—" She stops herself, her expression softening. "Harvey, when's the last time you even talked to her?"
"This isn't about her. It's about the painting." His jaw tightens, and he looks away, clearly shutting the door on that line of questioning.
But Olivia doesn't notice the shift in tone. "Well, if your mom made it, it must be really special." She turns to him, beaming. "You should call her and tell her I like her duck."
"It's not a duck," Harvey says firmly, though his voice lacks its usual edge.
Donna opens her mouth, probably to change the subject, but Rachel gets there first.
"So… your mom gave you a masterpiece, and now it's the centerpiece of your office. Doesn't that make you a little sentimental?"
"It makes me practical," Harvey counters. "It fills a wall."
"Practical, huh? You're not even a little curious about what she'd say if you called her?" Mike watches him carefully.
Harvey's eyes flash, the shutters coming down. "We're not doing this, Mike."
Donna cuts in, her tone soothing. "No one's saying you have to do anything, Harvey. It's your choice." She pauses, then adds lightly, "But for the record, I think Olivia's right. You could at least tell her her duck is famous."
"It's not a duck," Harvey repeats, but there's no bite in his voice. Instead, he glances at Olivia, who's now studying the painting with renewed wonder.
"You know what?" she declares. "It doesn't matter if it's a duck or a crocodile or a… whatever. It's nice. And if it was my mom who painted it, I'd tell her."
Harvey looks at her for a long moment, something unreadable flickering in his face. Then, with a faint shake of his head, he stands, straightening his jacket. "You're full of ideas, kid."
Olivia grins. "Good ones, though."
Harvey doesn't answer, but as he walks away, Donna catches the smallest glance he casts back at the painting. For a man who avoids sentimentality at all costs, it says more than words ever could.
By midnight, the office is quiet again, everyone has gone home, and the chaos is finally contained. Harvey leans back in his chair, flipping through the neatly compiled brief Donna prepared.
She stands by the door, a sleeping Olivia on her arm and her bag slung over her shoulder. "Everything you need is in that folder. Try not to screw it up."
"Donna," Harvey calls, stopping her just before she leaves.
She turns. "Yes?"
"You're incredible."
A smile tugs at her lips. "Tell me something I don't know."
…
The next morning the elevator dings, and Donna steps off heading straight for the bullpen, carrying an array of meticulously wrapped gifts. Each box is wrapped in elegant paper, tied with ribbons so perfect they look like they came out of a magazine. Harvey follows a few steps behind, hands in his pockets, looking pleased with himself.
Rachel spots Donna immediately and hurries over, her eyes lighting up.
"Finally! Let's see what Living for the Present came up with."
Donna sets the gifts down with a flourish, shooting Rachel a knowing look.
"They're good. Trust me."
"Well, considering last year's pasta maker fiasco, the bar was low."
Harvey bristles, crossing his arms.
"I fixed the problem, didn't I? I hired the best in the business. You're welcome."
"And who was it that told you about Living for the Present again? Oh, that's right. Me." Rachel says, tapping her chin in mock contemplation.
A few associates wander over, drawn by the sight of the gifts. Rachel picks up the one with her name on it and turns it over, examining the perfect wrapping.
"Okay, I need to know what's inside."
She carefully tears at the paper, revealing a sleek, personalized to-go coffee mug engraved with her initials and a gift card to a popular coffee shop nearby.
"This is amazing! Thoughtful, useful, and caffeinated. Donna, this is genius." Rachel's face lights up.
Donna gives a modest shrug. "It's what we do at Living for the Present. Quality gifts for quality people."
Harvey gestures to the table with a wave of his hand.
"See? I said no more lame corporate presents. Best boss on the floor, guaranteed."
Rachel nudges Donna with her elbow, as they start handing out gifts.
"One might think one might deserve an extra gift for bringing the greatness that is Donna into your life."
"Isn't the honor of working with me gift enough?" Harvey rocks back on his heels with a smug expression.
Donna rolls her eyes at him.
"You're right, Rachel. Maybe you do deserve an extra gift for introducing him to me and putting up with his huge ego."
Rachel grins. "I mean, where would he even be without me?"
"Still handing out pasta makers, probably," Donna quips, sliding another gift across the table.
Harvey stops in his tracks, shooting them both a look.
"You two done patting yourselves on the back? Because last I checked, I'm the one paying Living for the Present to handle this operation."
"And who do you think keeps Living for the Present running so smoothly, Harvey?" Donna's voice dripping with quiet smugness.
"Exactly. The greatness that is Donna Paulsen doesn't come cheap, you know." Rachel taps her coffee mug for emphasis.
"Oh, believe me, I know," Harvey sighs dryly. "But if you think I'm giving you an extra gift for doing your job, you're dreaming."
Rachel gasps, feigning shock. "So ungrateful."
Donna chuckles. "Rachel's right. You should be thanking her. If she hadn't convinced you to bring me on, this whole Christmas thing would still be a total disaster."
"Disaster?" Harvey gestures to the table of buzzing associates. "You see all those smiling faces? That's my doing."
Rachel leans closer to Donna, muttering under her breath. "This man has no shame."
Donna grins, shaking her head. "None whatsoever. But at least the gifts are good."
Harvey buttons up his suit jacket.
"I'm due in court. You know, to win another trial. As that is what I do. It keeps this place running and all."
Donna doesn't miss a beat. "Oh, of course, Harvey. Winning cases and delegating Christmas miracles. Truly, you're a man of many talents."
Harvey straightens his tie, looking between the two women.
"You're both very welcome. Try not to miss me while I'm out saving the firm."
As he turns to leave, Donna calls after him. "Don't worry, Harvey. We'll hold down the fort—and your reputation as the best boss ever."
…
Harvey had been tied up in court all day and didn't return to the office before Donna left to pick up Olivia. Late at night she had received a text message with just a smug emoji in it. She assumed it went well.
The following morning, in the bitter cold, Donna is rushing Olivia out the door, backpack in one hand and her phone in the other, when a sleek black car pulls up outside her apartment. She freezes as Harvey steps out, looking smug as ever.
"Harvey," she calls, narrowing her eyes, "what are you doing here?"
He adjusts his tie casually. "I was thinking I'd give you a ride."
"Ray just gave me a ride yesterday."
Donna sounds surprised, ushering Olivia down the steps.
"Yeah, but this time, I thought I'd make it a little more celebratory."
He opens the back door for Olivia, who hesitates, glancing at Donna for approval.
"Celebratory? Harvey, I still have to drop her off at school." Donna shoots him a look as her trusted linen ripped handbag sways on her arm.
"Handled," Harvey says smoothly. "I already called. I told them Olivia might be a little late because her aunt was busy helping me win the trial of the year."
Donna glares at him.
"Harvey, you can't just call the school asking them for a favor."
"Apparently, I can. They were fine with it. So…," he gestures toward the car, "we have breakfast at Nougatine and a quick stop at FAO Schwarz, every trial victory deserves a celebration."
Olivia's face lights up. "Really?!"
Donna sighs, torn between exasperation and amusement. "Harvey, you're spoiling her."
"You say that like it's a bad thing," he says with a grin. "After we drop her off to school, I was thinking an excursion to Hermes, that may or may not involve a new handbag."
Donna groans, helping Olivia into the car. "You're unbelievable."
Harvey smirks as she slides into the passenger seat. "Unbelievably generous, yes."
"You've been needing a new handbag," Olivia pipes up from the back.
Donna twists in her seat to face her.
"Whose side are you on?"
"The right side," Harvey interjects. "Clearly, she's been learning from me."
Donna rolls her eyes, leaning back.
"Fine. But don't think a handbag means you've got me all figured out."
"You mean that you used to buy all the luxury things but had to give it all up?"
Donna's eyes widen, and her lips part in surprise. She looks at Harvey, then quickly averts her gaze, her hand tightening around her purse.
Olivia giggles from the back.
"Can I get a dollhouse and a pony?"
Donna shoots Harvey a glare.
"You've created a monster."
Harvey grins as Ray pulls onto the street.
"Relax. I'll make sure it's a dollhouse-sized pony."
…
They end up at Hermes first, where Harvey insists on a new handbag.
Donna shifts uncomfortably as the shop assistant wraps the bag in tissue paper, the price on the till making her stomach churn. She has worked hard for every little indulgence she'd allowed herself in the past, each one a small triumph. But this? This feels like a different kind of gift, one she doesn't quite know how to accept.
Harvey hands over his card without so much as a blink, the whole process as casual as buying a cup of coffee. Beside them, Olivia practically buzzes with excitement.
"Can I carry it? Please? I promise no rocks this time!"
Donna let out a tight laugh, ruffling Olivia's hair.
"If you so much as look at a pebble, I'm hiding your crayons for a week."
Harvey, clearly not missing her discomfort, glances over. "You okay?"
Donna hesitates, her fingers curling around the handles of the bag.
I just… I don't know, Harvey. It's a lot. You didn't have to do this."
"I know," he shrugs, his voice casual. "I wanted to."
"It's just… this isn't how I operate. I don't like feeling like someone's charity project."
He steps a little closer, his tone softening.
"You're not. I don't do things for people to make up for something. I do them because I want to. And I want to do this for you."
Donna holds his gaze for a beat, processing his words. She can see that he's not trying to make up for anything, that this is about him choosing to do something kind, not out of obligation but because he genuinely cares. She isn't sure what to do with that.
"I can't get used to this," Donna whispers as she glances once more at the bag.
"Why not?" Harvey pushes the door open for her and Olivia, who skips ahead, chattering about where to go next.
Donna doesn't answer right away. Part of her doesn't want to admit how much it unsettles her. That Harvey, despite everything, has a way of making her feel like maybe she's worth this. But she knows better than to get comfortable with it. In January, he'll be gone from their lives again, and everything between them will shift. She's already preparing herself for that. For now, though, she lets the moment slip away, following them outside without saying a word.
Olivia had clapped in her hands when the waiter at Nougatine brought her hot chocolate. It came with four bowls of toppings. Whipped cream, small marshmallows, chocolate covered pretzels and little gingerbread men.
She is currently piling everything on top of her drink while Donna sips her coffee. Buttermilk pancakes and brioche French toast are on its way. The prices on the menu made Donna's eyes water and she vowed to herself that it is the last time she'd accept any generosity from Harvey but Olivia's smile is worth feeling a sting of embarrassment currently.
"Well, well, well," a voice cuts through the quiet behind Donna's back and she closes her eyes briefly, not feeling fit for what is about to come.
"Isn't this a surprise?" Mrs. Caldwell stops at their table.
Her gaze darting between Donna, Harvey, and Olivia. Her eyes linger on Harvey's tailored suit and polished demeanor, curiosity evident.
"I had no idea you kept such… interesting company, Donna."
Donna sets her cup down slowly.
"Mrs. Caldwell. Always a pleasure."
"I thought I recognized Olivia. What a treat, running into you like this." Mrs. Caldwell glances pointedly at Harvey. "And you must be… a friend?"
"Harvey Specter," he introduces himself smoothly, standing to shake her hand.
"Pleasure to meet you," Mrs. Caldwell purrs, taking in Harvey from head to toe. "My daughter Molly goes to school with Olivia at Notre Dame Academy."
Harvey raises an eyebrow at the way this lady feels the need to raise her voice and emphasize the name of the high end prep school.
Mrs. Caldwell's gaze flickers to Olivia, then back to Donna.
"I've noticed some changes lately. A fancy car with a driver, those fancy cakes at the bake sale… and I must say, Olivia's wardrobe has really… blossomed." Her voice drops to a mock-conspiratorial tone. "It must be nice to have found other means of support."
Before Donna can respond, Harvey leans forward.
"Interesting perspective. I'm curious, how often do you go out of your way to make assumptions about people you barely know?"
Mrs. Caldwell's smile falters but recovers quickly.
"I wasn't implying anything—"
"Sure you were," Harvey says smoothly, standing and buttoning his jacket. "But don't worry. Donna doesn't need to explain herself to anyone. Least of all, you."
Mrs. Caldwell's smile freezes, her face flushing.
"Well, I didn't mean to intrude. Enjoy your breakfast."
She walks off, her head held high, but her pace just a bit too quick to be casual.
Harvey sits back down, taking a sip of his coffee as Donna watches him, her face unreadable.
"I don't know if to say thank you or did you really have to say that?" she finally says, her voice laced with exasperation.
"She started it," he replies easily.
Donna sighs, shaking her head. "You know, she's never letting Molly come over now."
Harvey smirks faintly. "Her loss."
Donna looks at him, the corners of her mouth twitching upward despite herself.
"You're impossible."
"That's why you keep me around," he says, signaling for the waiter.
Their final stop is at FAO Schwarz. Olivia skips ahead as the three of them weave through the aisles of the toy store. She continues to gasp at every corner, taking in the towering shelfs of stuffed animals, glittering princess dresses, and a life-sized, roaring lion on display.
Olivia holds up a unicorn and a soft pink bunny. "Can I get both?"
Harvey crouches to her level, a small grin tugging at his lips.
"That depends. Do you have room for both in your toy chest?"
Olivia tilts her head thoughtfully.
"I can make room."
Before Donna can intervene, Olivia's eyes grow big. She stuffs the animals back on the shelf and runs to a wall full of dolls.
"Aunt Donna," Olivia calls, holding up a shimmering princess doll. "Can I get this one? Please?"
Donna crouches down, brushing a strand of hair from Olivia's face.
"Sweetie, that's beautiful, but don't you already have a princess doll?"
"But not this one!" Olivia insists.
Donna opens her mouth to answer when Harvey steps in smoothly, pulling his wallet from his pocket.
"How about the princess doll and her castle?"
"Harvey!"
Donna shoots him a sharp look, rising to her feet.
He shrugs, nonchalant. "What? It's Christmas."
Donna places her hands on her hips.
"You can't just swoop in and say yes to everything. That's not how this works."
Harvey raises an eyebrow.
"Is that so? I thought the point of coming here was to make her happy."
Olivia's gaze bounces between them, sensing the tension, and Donna sighs, softening.
"It's not about the stuff, Harvey. You're going to spoil her."
"And that's a bad thing because…?"
Harvey's lips twitch, but Donna's look silences him.
Olivia, ever the diplomat, chimes in. "I'll pick one, okay?"
Donna crouches down again, smoothing her hand over Olivia's shoulder.
"Good call, Liv. Take your time."
As Olivia debates, Harvey leans closer to Donna, his voice low.
"You know, you're kind of ruining my big hero moment here."
Donna turns to him, crossing her arms.
"You don't need to be the hero, Harvey. She doesn't need a castle to think you're great."
He pauses at that, glancing at Olivia as she carefully selects her doll.
"Noted," he says quietly.
Donna tilts her head, surprised by the rare moment of humility, before Olivia comes running back with her choice—a sparkly fairy doll.
"This one!" Olivia announces, holding it up proudly.
Donna smiles. "Perfect choice."
As they head to the checkout, Harvey tosses one more glance at the dollhouse display.
"For the record, the castle would've looked amazing in the living room."
"The castle is bigger than my living room."
"Exactly. Would've been a statement piece." Harvey smirks.
Right before the till, they come across an enormous piano on the floor that can be activated by jumping on the keys with your feet.
Olivia immediately hops from key to key trying to piece together the opening chords of a Christmas song.
"Harvey! My Christmas recital is in two days. You're coming, right? My class is singing Jingle Bell Rock. I've been practicing for weeks!" Olivia's excitement is palpable, her small hand gesturing animatedly.
Harvey hesitates just a second too long.
"Wednesday… I think I might have a client thing that day."
Donna freezes for a split second, her expression hardening as she carefully studies Harvey's face. She knows his schedule better than he does. There's no meeting on Wednesday.
Oh." Olivia's shoulders slump, her excitement dimming, and her voice softens. "That's okay, I guess."
"Hey," Donna cuts in, her tone warm. "You're going to shine up there, Liv. Whether Harvey's there or not, everyone's going to love it."
She softly strokes Olivia's strawberry blonde locks as the little girl leans into her aunt.
Harvey glances at Donna, catching the faint tremble in her voice. She doesn't meet his gaze, her focus fixed on Olivia.
Olivia nods, forcing a small smile. "Yeah. I guess."
Harvey shifts uncomfortably, clearing his throat. "I'll try my best to make it. You know I wouldn't miss it if I could help it, right?"
Donna doesn't say a word, but the disappointed flicker in her eyes speaks volumes. She gently squeezes Olivia's hand.
"Come on, let's go pay for that gorgeous doll you picked out."
As they move forward, Harvey lingers behind, watching them go. Olivia's steps a little less bouncy than before. For the first time, he feels the weight of the promise he didn't make—and the one Donna expected him to.