Chapter Text
« Alright everyone. We're live in 30... 29... 28… »
As one of the assistants on set counted down, Harvey took a final sip of water before settling back into his seat at the table he shared with his colleagues. He then greeted Jake, who had just arrived, only to notice one of the camera operators giving a signal that they were live, the voice of one of the hosts echoing through the studio.
« Ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon. We're happy to have you with us once again this Tuesday for NFL Total Access, where we'll be talking football with all of you. Today, joining me at the table, my usual partner Ames, Emmy Award-winning sportscaster, here on my right, Jake, coach for the Kansas City Chiefs, and on my left, Harvey, former iconic player for the New York Giants with a record of six championship victories. Thank you for being with us, gentlemen »
« Thank you » smiled Jake.
« It’s an honor » added Harvey.
« We’ll take advantage of having our football experts here to discuss tonight’s upcoming game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Buffalo Bills, as well as the future of the Baltimore Ravens after their fifth consecutive loss. We’ll also make use of Harvey’s presence to talk about tomorrow’s game between the Giants and the Detroit Lions, getting his thoughts on what seems like an almost certain victory for the New Yorkers »
For a few more minutes, the two hosts continued outlining the rest of the show and the topics they would be covering, followed by a few clips they would analyze later. As one of the assistants signaled that they were no longer on camera, Harvey felt his phone vibrate in the inner pocket of his jacket and let out a snort as he glanced at the message.
Tom Ford was definitely a good idea. Hot
As the man signaled that they were about to go live again, Harvey tucked his phone away just as everyone began sharing their thoughts on the injury of a New Orleans Saints player and a trade between the Cleveland Browns and the Indianapolis Colts. The show moved on, and as they started discussing the Giants vs. Detroit Lions matchup, Ames turned to Harvey for his opinion on the upcoming game.
« Most of the viewers are pretty much convinced that the Giants will win this year. What do you think? »
« Well, given the recent results, I do think the Giants have the upper hand. They’ve got a strong team right now, with a lot of new players showing potential. Meanwhile, Detroit is still a bit uncertain about their lineup. We know they've struggled to bring in new talent, and their quarterback got injured pretty badly at the start of the season. Blake, who’s filling in, still seems to lack some confidence. They’re definitely a bit destabilized, but we’re not immune to surprises. You never know »
« Will we have the honor of hearing you commentate and give your thoughts on the game tomorrow night? »
« Unfortunately, no. My second job is calling, and this time, it's not the Giants I'll be supporting, but my wife »
As the four adults chuckled, Harvey continued with his analysis for a few more minutes before they moved on to the next topic as they spent about half an hour discussing the latest news before the show finally wrapped up.
« And... cut! »
Once the end was announced, Harvey stood up, removed his microphone, and waved to everyone before heading out of the studio to the car waiting for him downstairs. About twenty minutes later, he entered his condo to find it silent, moving through the space in search of his wife.
« Babe? »
As Harvey saw a sock tossed from the bedroom into the living room, he chuckled, realizing she was subtly letting him know she was in the next room. Without hesitation, he quickly caught it — his old football reflexes still kicking in — before stepping into the master bedroom. For a moment, he lingered in the doorway, watching the scene before him with a smile tugging at his lips. At the foot of the bed, a series of open suitcases were scattered around — some packed, others half-full — while his wife crouched in front of them, focused on organizing as she was wearing nothing but a pair of panties and an old Giants t-shirt, her long red hair cascading down her back.
« You know we're only leaving for three days, right? » teased Harvey, leaning against the doorframe.
As she turned to face him, offering a playful, smug smile, Harvey's heart skipped a beat. When their gazes met, a rush of warmth flooded through him, and the years between them seemed to melt away. The memories came flooding back, and for a moment, it was as if no time had passed at all.
Three years ago...
It had been three days since Dancing with the Stars had ended, three days since Harvey had left the redhead's bed, and three days since Donna had woken up alone — both of them feeling an immense emptiness inside. Harvey hadn’t slept a wink that night, spending hours staring at the ceiling while gently caressing the back of the redhead, who had fallen asleep against him, her skin soft under his fingertips as he was lost in thought, trying to figure out what to do next. He wanted to spend his life in her arms, but he also feared breaking her heart if things didn’t work out between them. As his eyes burned from lack of sleep, he checked the time and saw that it was already 5 a.m. With a sigh, he carefully slipped out of her embrace, got dressed, and quietly left her apartment to prepare his bags and catch his flight later that day. Two days later, it was Donna’s turn to leave Los Angeles with a heavy heart. As she packed her things, she came across the football player’s sweatshirt that he had left behind when he’d gone, the familiar scent of him hitting her all at once, and she paused, fingers brushing over the fabric as a wave of emotion washed over her. Over time, Donna had convinced herself she would move on — that she would come to terms with the idea that he had left the first chance he got. But no. The ache in her chest wouldn’t go away so while she waited at her gate, ready to board, miles away, Harvey sat in front of his computer, torn over what to do. There were 42 flights between Los Angeles and New York from four different airlines, and there was no way to know exactly when she would arrive. He knew her flight was on Monday, but beyond that, he had no details, so he thought. The earliest flight landed at JFK at 2 p.m., and as it was already 10 a.m., the football player took a deep breath and started to get ready. Three hours later, Harvey stood in front of the redhead’s door, dressed in black suit pants, a pair of sneakers, a simple white t-shirt, and his hair perfectly styled to the side, holding a massive bouquet of flowers as he paced back and forth, waiting. Two p.m… Three… Four… Five — still no sign of the dancer. Meanwhile, Donna had just gotten into a taxi to leave the airport, scrolling through social media as she looked at all the photos, videos, and edits of her and Harvey, feeling her heart tighten. Minutes later, as she arrived in front of her building, she thanked the driver, checked the time, and started to think. It was 5:30 p.m, she’d probably get home, unpack, shower, and order pizza to end the night with a comforting movie, but as she stepped out of the elevator and was about to turn the corner of the hallway to her apartment, she stopped dead in her tracks. The scent of a familiar cologne hit her senses and made her head spin — alright, she thought, she missed him so much that she was even imagining his scent. Urgh, she really needed to move on. But then, as she rounded the corner, she froze again. There he was, standing in front of her door, the football player was swaying slightly on his feet, staring at the bouquet of flowers in his hands, seemingly lost in thought.
« Harvey? »
Immediately, the young man looked up, his eyes flickering with a mix of relief and stress.
« Hey, Donna »
« What are you doing here? »
« Um, I... wanted to — here »
As he awkwardly extended the bouquet of flowers toward her, Donna couldn’t help but blush, and for a few seconds, neither of them said anything. It was Donna who finally broke the silence a second later, her voice barely above a whisper.
« Thank you so much, Harvey. Um, please, come in »
For the first time, Harvey stepped into the place where the woman who made his heart race lived. The décor was simple yet sophisticated, chosen with taste, and it gave him an overwhelming sense of familiarity. As he helped her bring in her bags, he lingered for a moment before Donna started placing the flowers he had brought her into a vase while she spoke softly as she worked.
« Would you like something to drink? I have water and... more water? »
As she chuckled, her laugh melting Harvey's heart, he couldn’t help but laugh too, gazing at her with affection.
« Water is fine »
« Perfect — so, I know it’s only been three days since we last saw each other, but how are you? I mean, any big projects coming up or — »
« I want more »
For a few seconds, the apartment fell into silence as Harvey swallowed hard, struggling to believe he had just said that while Donna opened her eyes wide, her heart racing, afraid she might have misunderstood.
« What? »
« I missed you these last three days, Donna »
« I missed you too, but that doesn’t mean — »
« It’s exactly what it means »
Harvey then took a deep breath, his voice softening as he spoke again, carefully choosing his words.
« When I decided to leave your bed this morning, it felt like my heart was being ripped out — it was that painful. I thought I was making the right choice, that I was sparing you from being unhappy, that you’d be better off without me. But in the end, it’s me who’s unhappy. I know these twelve weeks were incredible because we were together all the time, but I miss you so much. I’m completely addicted to you. I need you to be with me. I love the person I am when I’m with you. I love the calm and security you bring me, the way you look at me and make me feel like I’m more than just a heartless asshole. Over the past few weeks, I’ve changed the way I think about my future, and no matter how many scenarios I imagine, you’re always in them. I know things won’t always be easy — we’ve got an exceptional life ahead of us — but I think the two of us are worth it. I’m in love with you, Donna. And if you don’t feel the same way, I’ll understand, but I promise you, I’ll never — »
Without even taking the time to answer, she jumped on his lips, kissing him passionately as she tried to convey everything she felt for him through the kiss. At first, he was a little surprised, but the moment he felt her fingers slide to the back of his head, scratching his scalp gently, he eagerly responded with just as much enthusiasm, feeling her whisper against his lips.
« I was so afraid you weren’t ready »
« I’m not. But for you, I’ll be »
« Alright »
Quickly, the glass of water was forgotten, and an hour later, both of them found themselves in Donna's bed, gasping for air and naked, the redhead laying in Harvey’s arms, feeling him chuckle softly against her.
« What? »
« You didn't even notice that I made myself all handsome for you »
« That's because you're always handsome, Harv »
« Oh, please. Don’t flatter my ego, I’m already in your bed »
« Alright, I’ll pretend I didn’t hear that »
As they chuckled softly, Harvey tightened his grip around her, flipping them over and kissing her again as he murmured against her lips, gently stroking her face and hair.
« I was serious, Donna »
« I know »
« I really want this to work »
« Me too »
« So, it’s good for you? You want us to be more too? »
« Well, if the two orgasms you just had weren't convincing enough, then yes, Harvey. I want us to be more and I can't wait for that »
As she looked at him with a mixture of love and tenderness, Harvey felt his heart race before he rushed to her lips, kissing the redhead gently. The rest of the day was spent in Donna’s bed, chatting about everything and nothing, laughing together as the situation felt so natural, so right — like they were exactly where they were meant to be for the first time in all these years. If they could have stayed there forever, with Donna peacefully sleeping in Harvey’s arms, they might have. But they were jolted awake when the footballer’s phone rang, and without pulling away from Donna, Harvey reached behind him, grabbing his phone and answering with a grunt.
« Hello? »
« Am I waking you? »
« Yeah »
« It's already ten, Harvey »
« Really? Well, I went to bed late last night » sighed the football player.
« It’s fine. Anyway, I stopped by your place this morning, and you didn’t answer. Where are you if you’re just waking up now? »
« What do you think? »
« Don’t tell me more, I get it. Enjoy yourselves, you two »
« See you »
« Bye, Harvey »
Hardly had he hung up when Donna shifted in his arms, murmuring with her eyes still closed as Harvey placed a gentle kiss on her lips.
« Jessica? »
« Yeah »
« What did she want? »
« I don’t know. She figured out I was with you, so she left me alone »
« You know we can’t stay in this bed for the rest of our lives »
« Oh really? »
« Yeah. Plus, I have a meeting with the director of my show today »
« When do you go back? »
« Next week, but I’m starting training again tomorrow »
« Already? »
« Yeah »
« Oh »
« What? »
« I thought we’d have more time together » sighed Harvey.
« Well, I thought we’d have our whole lives together? »
As she slowly opened her eyes, Harvey kissed her again and again before they both got up to share the bathroom as he watched Donna get dressed for her rehearsal before heading home while she left for the Broadway district. After her meeting, Donna smiled when she saw the message from Harvey asking if they were having dinner together that evening, unable to stop the butterflies in her stomach from fluttering wildly. She immediately joined him at his place, and they greeted each other with a tender kiss before sharing a pizza and a beer in the kitchen. Soon, a rhythm settled into their relationship as they spent every second of their free time together, hiding from the paparazzi to preserve their privacy. They alternated between her place and his, until the day it no longer pleased him. One evening, after Donna’s late-night performance and Harvey’s match, they both returned home. As he checked the time for the fifteenth time since getting into bed and saw it was already one in the morning, he sighed, got up, and got dressed. About twenty minutes later, he entered the Upper West Side apartment using his spare key, undressed, and slid into bed behind Donna as she jumped in surprise.
« Hey, it’s me »
« Gosh, you scared me »
« Sorry, baby »
« It’s fine. What are you doing here? I thought you were sleeping at your place tonight? »
« Let's move in together »
« What? Harv, it’s — »
« Please »
« Let’s sleep now. We’ll talk about it tomorrow »
« Alright. I love you »
« I love you too »
The next morning, barely opening her eyes, Donna saw Harvey scrolling on his phone, and the moment he noticed her stirring, he quickly turned the screen toward her, but the brightness burned her retinas, causing her to groan.
« Ouch »
« Sorry »
« What is it? »
« A condo on the Upper East Side »
« Harv… »
« I never want to spend another night without you by my side »
« Alright, let me look »
That same morning, the two of them visited the apartment they’d seen online — a stunning condo in one of Manhattan’s most upscale neighborhoods. It boasted a massive open space, a long terrace with a breathtaking view of the city, and a spacious master bedroom. Both of them instantly fell in love with it. Though it felt a bit luxurious for them, seeing Donna’s smile and the sparkle in her eyes made Harvey decide, almost immediately, that they should buy it. Barely six months into their relationship, the couple moved in together. And even though it felt fast, it was exactly the pace they wanted. Days turned into weeks, weeks into months, and when they celebrated their one-year anniversary on a paradise island, Donna never expected to see him kneel before her, holding out a Tiffany cushion-cut double halo engagement ring with a diamond platinum band. Without hesitation, she accepted, and they kissed passionately, their tears mingling on their lips, as never before had they felt so happy. Upon their return to New York, they quietly began planning their wedding. It was to be a discreet affair, with only Donna’s parents, Marcus and his wife, Gordon, Rachel, Mike, and Jessica in attendance, and barely a month after the proposal, they became husband and wife. Though they’d managed to keep their relationship under wraps until then, they hadn’t anticipated the eagle-eyed fans who had been tracking their every move since the show’s end. Both had been photographed without realizing it — Donna leaving the theater and Harvey after a training session but it was the huge diamond next to the wedding band on Donna’s finger and the matching silver band on Harvey’s hand that tipped off the fans as the internet exploded, and that’s how Donna found out.
« Holy shit »
While Donna was still in her underwear lying on her stomach, Harvey had barely gotten out of his shower and was rushing to climb onto their bed to lie on top of her, the redhead groaning as he leaned his full weight on her, placing kisses on her neck.
« What? »
« That »
« You look hot »
« Harvey, seriously. People made the connection and realized we’re married »
« Is it really that serious? »
« Our private life, Harv »
The fact that their lives were being dissected terrified the couple. From the beginning, they had cherished the privacy of their story — just between the two of them. It was a space where they could fully devote themselves to each other, without worrying about the opinions of others but now that their secret had been exposed to the world, they feared that everything would change. At first, they chose to do nothing, hoping the media would lose interest but as magazines and websites began spinning all sorts of stories about them, they realized they couldn’t stay silent forever. So, after a few days of tension, they decided to confirm the rumor, hoping it would finally bring them some peace. And that’s how, on Donna’s birthday — fifteen days after the rumors had started — Harvey posted a photo of her at a restaurant, the diamond on her finger sparkling in the dim light of the room, which was illuminated only by candles.
Happy birthday, baby. I’m so happy to be able to celebrate this with you and can’t wait to do it again next year. Thank you for being such an incredible person and the perfect wife. I love you more than anything in this world
Quickly, the footballer’s post went viral. People became obsessed with them, and the married couple quickly became a trending pair, frequently making the front pages of magazines. Despite all the attention, they continued to live their lives happily together, unbothered by the public’s obsession.
Today...
For a few seconds, he watched her from the doorframe, taking in the sight of her folding his t-shirts to pack his suitcase. Then, he approached slowly, leaning down toward her as she looked up just as he reached her, and they shared a tender, delicate kiss as he gently caressed her jaw.
« Hey »
« Hey »
« You watch me on tv? »
« Just the beginning. I started packing the bags right after. You’d better hurry up too, we have an early flight tomorrow morning »
« Of course, milady. Has she been asleep for long? »
He then gently climbed onto the bed, moving carefully before lying down on his stomach, propped up on his elbows as he watched the baby, deeply asleep, nestled comfortably in the center of the parental bed.
« About twenty minutes, but please, Harv, don’t wake her up. I struggled to get her to sleep »
For a few seconds, Harvey watched their baby with a smile on his lips. She was absolutely perfect — adorable in every way. Now six months old, little Specter had already stolen his heart, and while he’d suspected he’d be crazy about his daughter, he never imagined he’d be this in love with her. She was the spitting image of her mother, with a few subtle traits that belonged to Harvey: strawberry blonde hair, large hazel-green eyes, a small, fine, straight nose. And that little smirk? All Harvey’s. As Donna continued packing at her own pace, Harvey took the time to trace every little detail of their daughter’s face — her chubby cheeks, the curve of her tiny hands — and he found himself reminiscing about the moment he’d learned he was going to be a father.
One year ago...
Donna had been sick for a few days, and while Harvey worried whenever his wife showed any sign of discomfort, the redhead reassured him that it was probably the kebab from the food cart they had eaten that was making her throw up. So, even though he wasn’t entirely convinced, he agreed — especially since they had other things to focus on, like preparing to celebrate their first wedding anniversary at a restaurant. Harvey was dressed in a sharp Tom Ford suit — Donna’s favorite — when she stepped out of the bathroom in a stunning dark green satin dress, the sight of her taking his breath away.
« Wow »
« Oh, please. Are you ready? »
« Yep, let’s go »
Hand in hand, they left their large condo and headed to Del Posto to celebrate a year of happiness. Once seated at the table, Donna ordered spaghetti alla puttanesca, and Harvey chose tortellini e fagioli. As he glanced at his wife with love, he leaned in and murmured softly.
« Nebbiolo or Chianti? »
« I was thinking of water »
« Water? »
« Yeah »
« But baby, it’s our wedding anniversary, you can at least have one drink. Are you sure everything’s okay? »
Gosh, even though Harvey was incredibly adorable and Donna loved him with all her heart, sometimes she felt like she was married to a slightly innocent and lost teenager.
« Yeah, don’t worry. It’s just that since that kebab already made me a bit sick, I figured adding a hangover on top of that isn’t the best idea »
« Yeah, I get it. Alright, I’m supporting the love of my life: one bottle of water for two »
After ordering, they both enjoyed their meals and their glass of water, sharing a dessert before heading home. Once there, they took a shower together and changed into their pajamas. As they were settling on their bed, they eagerly held onto their gifts for each other, Harvey leaning over with a soft smile.
« Open mine first »
As Donna opened the small blue box, she gasped upon seeing a delicate band adorned with diamonds, while Harvey began to speak in a soft voice.
« It's an eternity ring. Each diamond represents the number of years I want to spend married to you, until the day I die »
« Harv, it’s beautiful »
« You're the beautiful one – do you like it? »
« I love it, it’s so beautiful »
« Come on, let me put it on you »
With a tender smile, Harvey slid the new ring onto Donna’s finger as he kissed her passionately, his lips lingering on hers for a moment before he pulled back, excited.
« Alright, what about my gift? »
Donna then took a deep breath and handed him a small white package while Harvey eagerly grabbed it, carefully removing the ribbon before opening it. Seconds later, he paused, confused, as he picked up a small card resting on a folded garment inside the box.
Next year, it’s the three of us.
If Harvey didn’t seem to understand right away, Donna nodded to encourage him to continue. The moment he grabbed the item and pulled it out of the box, he unfolded it — and gasped. In his hands was a small cream-colored onesie with little footballs printed all over it. For a few seconds, the room was enveloped in silence while Donna watched, her heart racing, Harvey’s eyes growing misty, his hands trembling slightly as he ran his thumbs over the soft fabric, murmuring softly.
« Are you pregnant? »
« I am, yes »
« Donna, I — »
Not even knowing what to say next, Harvey’s voice trailed off as Donna whispered softly in return, her heart racing.
« Are you happy? »
Without answering, Harvey pulled Donna into his arms, covering her face, neck, and shoulder with kisses, repeatedly thanking her as he still struggled to believe that in a few months, his wife would be giving birth to their child, transforming their family from two to three. If he thought he was happy with Donna, he never imagined that the thought of having a baby would fill him with even more joy. He panicked — gosh, so panicked — but thankfully, Donna was there to reassure him, keeping calm as they prepared for their child's arrival. The news delighted the soon-to-be parents, and after their first-trimester ultrasound, they learned they were having a little girl as Harvey was overjoyed at the thought of having a little princess. Although they had decided to keep the news to themselves until the press caught wind of it, they hadn’t counted on Harvey's excitement. Four months pregnant now, Donna and Harvey walked hand in hand into MetLife Stadium — Harvey preparing for the evening's match and Donna there to support him from the stands and while they expected journalists and paparazzi to be at the entrance of the stadium, Donna had opted for a slightly oversized sweater to camouflage her already noticeable bump as they were bombarded with photos and questions.
« Mrs. Specter, have you come to support your husband? »
« Yeah »
« Harvey, do you think you’ll be able to beat the Eagles tonight despite their crushing win last week? »
« Let’s hope »
As they were about to enter the building, a journalist called out to Donna, and before she could respond, Harvey spoke up.
« Donna, are you planning to return to Dancing with the Stars? »
« Not for at least nine months, for sure »
At Harvey’s words, the journalists immediately began shouting questions about a potential pregnancy as the couple disappeared into the building. Once they were alone, Donna turned to push Harvey against the wall, her eyes wide as she stared at him, unable to believe what had just happened as Harvey was looking both amused and apologetic.
« Oops? »
« Harv, seriously? »
« It slipped out »
« It was supposed to be a secret »
« Well, don’t take it badly, baby, but you already have a visible bump, and your boobs are huge »
« Seriously? »
« But I love it — more than love. I mean, you’re gorgeous, hotter than hell, and — »
« Save it. Now it’s done. Everyone will know we’re having a baby »
« We’re having a baby, yeah »
Harvey looked at her with love and tenderness, his eyes softening as he saw the mix of emotions on her face. Donna sighed, torn between knowing he was right — that it was only a matter of time before the news got out — and feeling a pang of sadness that their little secret was now public. Seeing the frustration on her face, and knowing better than to upset a pregnant woman, Harvey leaned in to kiss her, but Donna turned her face slightly, his lips landing on her cheek instead.
« Oh come on. Kiss me »
« Let’s move on »
« Kiss me »
Seeing her walking away, Harvey couldn’t help but laugh as he ran after her, caught up to her, and gently took her face in his hands, showering her with kisses all over her face. Finally, he saw a smile tug at the corners of her lips, and she let out a soft snort of laughter.
« Come on, you’re gonna be late »
That afternoon, while she stood in the private suite waiting for Harvey to take the field, her sweater removed, one hand supporting her swollen belly and the other scrolling through her phone, the news of her pregnancy had already spread across social media, she couldn’t help but smile despite the situation. She knew that Harvey was so excited and happy about becoming a dad, and of course, he wasn’t going to be able to keep quiet. So, when he finally arrived on the field and looked at the camera to wink, a sign meant for her, she couldn’t help but melt. For nearly forty-five minutes, she alternated between talking to other people present and watching her husband on the field and at some point, as she saw him run at full speed, her breath caught when she saw him being thrown a considerable distance, landing on his back and lying still on the ground, not moving anymore. In less than a second, when she saw the stretcher being brought onto the field, she left the suite with a lump in her throat, running as fast as she could despite her belly, heading for the athletes' area and rushing into the treatment room. As soon as she entered the door, she saw Harvey on the examination table, writhing in pain, as they had removed his jersey and shoulder pads. Quickly, she moved forward, sliding her hand into his hair, watching him relax as he felt her thumb brush against his sweaty forehead.
« Hey »
« It hurt like a bitch »
« I know — what’s going on, doctor? »
« I’m almost sure he dislocated his shoulder and fractured his arm »
As the doctor explained what would happen next, Donna had seated herself in the chair placed beside the examination table where Harvey lay, listening attentively to the man as she ran her fingers through the footballer’s hair, occasionally placing small kisses on his cheek, hearing him breathe heavily from the pain before they were taken to the hospital for a series of exams. A few hours later, as he lay in the hospital bed, a bit dazed from the morphine, he looked at Donna with love, the tips of his fingers gliding over her swollen belly while she finished a conversation with her mother on the phone, reassuring her about her husband’s condition as he waited for her to hang up, murmuring softly.
« Babe? »
« Yeah? »
« I’m done »
« What? »
« Football. I’m done »
« Honey, what are you talking about? »
« You know what I thought about first when I got thrown off the field? Her. You — Donna, I can’t keep going out there, risking injury, or worse, while you’re waiting for me after every game, and she’ll be waiting for me after every game in a few months too. I don’t want to take that risk, not anymore. I was waiting for a sign to retire, to end my career, and I think the baby is more than a sign. I'm done, Donna. I want to focus on my wife and my daughter now. That matters more than anything in the world, more than any game, more than my career »
« Are you sure? »
« I am, yeah »
With those words, Harvey decided to end his career, announcing it at a press conference a few days later with his arm in a sling and his wife in the back of the room, supporting her belly with a sad smile on her lips as she watched how difficult it was for him to turn the page. In the end, even though it had been difficult to say goodbye to the sport that had helped him grow, Harvey quickly realized it was the best thing to do. Donna was almost six months pregnant, and Harvey had taken the time to prepare for the arrival of his daughter. He rushed to buy all the necessities to set up his princess's room, carefully painting it in a gradient of pink despite having only one functional arm, conducting market research on the best car seat, crib, baby rocker, and even bottles, making sure their little girl had everything she needed—and of the best quality. Despite the stress and excitement, the former footballer was relatively calm until the day Donna woke him up in the middle of the night, 38 weeks pregnant, because she was having contractions. Nearly nine hours later, after being unable to do anything other than let his wife crush his hand, Harvey saw his daughter for the first time. A perfect baby, with a tuft of red hair and a set of already strong cries that instantly calmed the moment she was placed on her mother’s chest. At that moment, Harvey realized he had made the right choice, and though he had spent all these years thinking football was what he needed, in reality, he had just needed to become a father to a child with the love of his life.
Today...
As he was lost in his thoughts, too absorbed by their baby, when he heard the sound of a zipper, he slightly straightened up to watch his wife leave the room with her long, pale, slender legs and her perfect, bouncy ass. She was beautiful, and every day, when he woke up, Harvey still had a hard time believing he had married her. Aside from being the epitome of beauty, she was a sweet, a kind person with just the right amount of sass and funny. And while she was the perfect wife, for the past six months, Harvey had watched her become the best mom in the world. Every time she held their daughter in her arms, rocked her, kissed her face, or sang to distract her, Harvey felt his heart tighten and dreamed of giving her a second child — but that, he knew, would require a little patience, and he couldn’t forget that his wife was a dancer, getting her pregnant every year wasn’t really an option. As he was lost in his thoughts, staring at the spot where she had disappeared, Donna couldn’t help but chuckle as she saw him watching her with a charming smile, her heart racing at the sight of him so in love.
« What’s going on in that sexy head of yours? »
« I’m so in love with you »
At Harvey’s words, she couldn’t help but melt. She still remembered when they decided to be together, unsure if he was ready for it, thinking his past might ruin their relationship and that they had no future together. Looking back, as she saw him being the perfect, devoted husband, but also an exceptional father, she realized she would have taken any risk and brushed aside all her insecurities to live even a fraction of the happiness she now knew. She was head over heels in love with him, and despite the fact that they’d been married for three years now, with a baby, it was still just as passionate and exciting as the very first day. It even surprised Donna that they hadn’t already started working on number two. Delicately, she climbed onto the bed to lie next to Harvey, both of them lying on their stomachs, leaning over the sleeping baby. The former footballer began to murmur.
« I didn’t help pack everything. Is there anything left to do? »
« Her travel bag is the only thing left, but we can do that last minute »
« Alright. Want me to make something to eat? »
« It’s already done, the lasagna’s in the oven, we just need to put it on »
« How is it possible to be so perfect? »
« I know, right? »
As Donna chuckled softly, Harvey leaned in a bit closer, now propped up on one elbow, using his other hand to hook his index finger under his wife’s chin as he placed a tender kiss there and murmured against her lips.
« Hey, seriously, thank you for being so perfect. You do everything around here, you should let me help, especially with the little one to look after »
« Harv, you’re the only one working right now. I can still take care of the house and my perfect husband, no? »
« Yeah, but not for long, so let me help too, alright? »
« Alright »
« Promise? » smiled Harvey.
« Promise »
With those words, they kissed once more before leaving the bed, placing pillows around the little girl to make sure she didn’t roll over, setting up the baby monitor, and leaving the master bedroom. While Donna put the lasagna on, Harvey settled in front of the TV, soon joined by the redhead. Together, they watched an episode of Survivor, enjoying a quiet moment just for the two of them while they waited for dinner to be ready. As soon as they sat down at the table, the baby monitor started making noise, and Harvey jumped up, running toward the bedroom, his eyes full of affection as Donna watched him. A few moments later, he returned with their little girl clinging to him, her tiny face barely awake, nestled in the crook of his neck. He gently stroked her back and pressed soft kisses to her cheek. Harvey was absolutely obsessed with their daughter, and Donna let him enjoy those precious moments with her while she tidied up the kitchen. After a while, the three of them ended up back in their bed, cozy and peaceful, and fell asleep together until the next day, as they woke up early and prepared for their trip to the airport. As soon as they arrived at JFK, despite Harvey wearing a cap and hoodie, Donna’s red hair was still quite recognizable, and some people spotted them from afar, asking for photos. Every time someone approached, Harvey quickly made sure no one touched the redhead, especially not the baby, who was strapped into the baby carrier against her, a light blanket covering her to let her sleep peacefully and avoid being photographed. While they were in the VIP lounge, Harvey snorted as he scrolled through social media.
« What? »
« Pictures of us from today are already online »
« Really? »
« Yeah »
« God, people are quick. Can we see her? »
« No, no. The blanket is covering her, look »
« Good »
« Can you believe it? Three years ago, people were speculating about every photo of us, hinting that we were secretly together, and now, we're really together, happily married with a beautiful baby. It's crazy, right? »
« Crazy, yeah »
« I love you »
« I love you too »
After kissing tenderly, they boarded the plane to Los Angeles, arriving six hours later in the city where their love had begun. After checking into their hotel, Donna told Harvey she was going to train at Studio 33 with the professionals while Harvey accompanied her and then took a stroll around the city with the stroller while waiting for her to finish her training. The next day, Donna returned to the studio while Harvey kept himself busy, feeling bored without his wife and wondering how he managed before her. Later, Donna rejoined him, and they shared a romantic dinner at the same Italian restaurant where they had gone after their baseball training. Only this time, there was a baby on the footballer’s lap. The next day, after breakfast, Donna went to rehearse one last time while Harvey took care of their daughter before joining her at the studio. As he walked through the halls as if the past three years hadn't happened, remembering the exact path, he made his way to the audience to take his seat in the stands, his baby sitting on his lap, her small back against his chest.
« Hey, look. It's mommy »
As the lights dimmed and the music began, Harvey watched his wife dance with admiration, mesmerized by her grace and skill. She, along with two other female dancers and three male dancers, launched into a spectacular contemporary routine.
« See that, baby? Look how beautiful mommy is »
As she flawlessly executed pirouettes and leaps, Harvey found himself completely captivated, his eyes locked on his wife. With every move, every fluid gesture, he fell more in love with her, as if it were the first time he was seeing her dance. He had always been mesmerized by her talent, but now, under the soft lighting, with her absolute focus and the beauty of her movements, she was even more enchanting. But as he kept looking at her, he couldn't help but glance over at the male dancer who was performing with Donna, his body brushing hers with such ease that it made Harvey a little uncomfortable. He knew his wife was professional and focused, but he couldn’t ignore the small wave of jealousy as he whispered in his daughter’s ear.
« Hey, is it just me or that idiot is way too close to mommy? »
As if to agree, the baby let out a little high-pitched noise as he kept speaking in her ear.
« We agree that daddy needs to take action, right? I need to go show who mommy belongs to, no? Poor guy, he has no idea what's coming. I mean, I might be too old for football, but I'm definitely not too old to knock him out — don't tell mommy I said that — but she's my wife, I have to make him understand that he has no chance. What do you think? »
As she kept gesturing on his lap to the rhythm of the music, he couldn’t help snorting while murmuring.
« Alright, clearly you don’t care. But that won’t stop me from marking my territory anyway »
Once the music ended, the lights came back on as Harvey decided to leave the bleachers to join her backstage. The little girl kept babbling and making high-pitched squeals that caught the attention of the redhead, who looked in that direction, chuckling softly. A few minutes later, when they reunited, Donna couldn’t help but laugh at the sight of the little girl sitting on Harvey’s hip while the former footballer gasped.
« Well, well, well. Isn’t the best dancer of all time? »
« Oh, honey »
« Gosh, I missed seeing you dance. You looked so beautiful »
« Yeah, I missed it too. I really enjoyed it »
« Well, about me… there is one thing I didn’t enjoyed »
« What? »
« The guy dancing with you. He was way too — »
« Gay »
« What? »
« He’s gay, Harv »
« Never mind, then »
As they both laughed at Harvey’s jealous behavior, Donna hurried to approach her husband and their daughter to cuddle her, dropping a lot of tiny kisses on her face, making her smile, before the two of them walked through the set toward the dressing room, Harvey recounting everything that was going through his mind.
« Here, this is the main stage. This is where we danced again and again without ever stopping until we won the trophy... Next… hum, here in the corridors, this is where I took advantage of the darkness to flirt with mommy because she was driving me completely crazy and I couldn't help it... And here is the dressing room with all the clothes. I remember when I would purposely go shirtless to obsess mommy, I wanted her to find me sexy and to think only of me and my abs »
« Oh, I was only thinking about that. Don’t worry » snorted Donna.
« Good — What else? Oh yeah, you see this room here behind this door, baby? This is where I made love to mommy for the first time, right on the floor, and gosh, it was so hot »
« Harv! » yelled Donna with a big smile.
« What? »
« Don't say that in front of her »
« Oh come on, she doesn't understand anyway. Plus, let's take advantage of the fact that she's still little to not realize how fulfilling her parents' sex life is. In a few years, she'll probably show up in our room without knocking and find us naked with me fucking you wildly »
« I can’t believe I just said that » snorted Donna.
For a few seconds, they continued walking toward the redhead's dressing room, where Harvey lay down on the couch, settling the baby comfortably on his chest while Donna kept stretching. As he let his fingers trail along her little back until she fell asleep, seeing Donna leaning forward, her legs bent at an angle that seemed incomprehensible to Harvey, the former footballer couldn’t help but notice a furrow between her brows.
« Babe? »
« Yeah? »
« What’s going on? »
« What? »
« Come on, I know you well enough to tell something’s not right. So, what’s going on? Are you stressed? »
« It’s not that I’m stressed, I’m just afraid I’m not good enough »
« Not good enough? Babe, you won us the show three years ago, of course you’re good enough »
« It’s not that »
As Donna sighed and rubbed her face, Harvey felt his heart break as he murmured.
« Hey »
« I had a baby, Harv »
« So what? »
« You’re an athlete, you know just like I do that physical maintenance is crucial. Since her birth, my body has changed, I had to stop training for a while, and even now, I can’t devote as much time to dance as I used to. Of course, I have no regrets, I love my life, I love my daughter and being a mother is the best thing that ever happened to me, but I wonder if it wasn’t a bit bold to agree to perform tonight. I mean, I only gave birth six months ago »
« Hey, babe. Listen to me. Your body hasn’t changed that much. I mean, yeah, you’ve got wider hips, but does that really change anything for dance, except maybe making it even sexier? And then you say you stopped training — sure, you weren’t able to practice as much as before, but babe, I saw you stretching throughout your entire pregnancy, and I freaked out when I saw you on your toes, doing pirouettes with your swollen belly when you were already six months pregnant. And even now, sorry to say it like this, but you’re still so flexible and move really well. I mean, you’re doing crazy things in bed »
« Harv »
« She’s asleep » snorted the man as she dropped a kiss on the small head.
« Of course »
« Donna »
« Hm? »
« I saw you dance earlier, you were incredible, and I’m not just saying that because I’m your husband, but because when I saw you with the other three dancers, you were the best in the group. I don’t think the show would have asked you to perform at this special event if they didn’t feel you were up to it. You’re an amazing dancer, and you’ll always be—baby or no baby, alright? Tonight, everything will go great, I promise. And besides, think of this as a warm-up before the big leap »
« Oh my God, I still can’t believe it »
« Hollywood, baby »
« Damn right »
« Hey, didn’t we say no bad words in front of the baby? » snorted Harvey.
« She’s asleep, no? » smirked Donna.
« Alright, you got me on this one, but babe… Hollywood »
« It’s crazy how dreams change. I mean, three years ago, I dreamed of winning the show with the sole goal of landing a big role on Broadway, and then you came into my life, I fell madly in love, and my dreams changed. I just wanted to be happy with you, become your wife, the mother of your children, and do something I loved. And today, my life exceeds my wildest dreams. I did marry you, you gave me a baby even more perfect than I could’ve imagined, and I got the role— I mean, god, Hollywood »
« I know, right? »
A month ago, while the three of them were sitting on the couch watching Clueless, Donna received a call from an unknown number, and after a few seconds of hesitation, she answered. On the other end of the line was Maria, a casting director who had spotted her on Broadway and wanted to meet her soon in New York. Surprised, Donna quickly accepted, and a week later, she found herself in a room with three other people, acting, dancing, and singing—exactly what she was made for—before stepping out to find Harvey leaning against the car in the parking lot. Wearing jeans, a t-shirt, and a cap, with their little girl in his arms, a bottle in one hand, and a large In-N-Out drink on the hood, he was looking at his wife with wide eyes, eager for news. Although she hadn't really been sure about it, when they called her three weeks later to tell her she got the part, they celebrated it under the sheets with Harvey. She hadn’t gotten the lead role, sure, but her part was one of the most important characters in this film adaptation of a famous musical by a well-known director. So, it wasn’t the lead role on Broadway, but it was even better. For a few more minutes, they discussed plans for the next six months and how they were going to organize everything between Donna’s shooting schedule and Harvey’s shows, until Donna finished stretching, took a shower in the dressing room, and finally came out. In the meantime, their little girl, now awake, they left the dressing room and headed toward the costume and makeup room.
« Harv, are you coming with me or you prefer to stay here with her? »
« With you. It’s going to bring back memories »
« Alright »
« Plus, I love coming with you »
As Donna chuckled at her husband’s implication, Harvey stood up from the armchair, and the two of them headed backstage. After changing, Donna sat down in the makeup chair while Liliane, an older woman who had been there back when they participated, chatted with her favorite couple. Nearly twenty minutes later, as Harvey was holding their baby and the three adults exchanged a few last words, they both left the area and walked down the hallway until they spotted someone coming toward them.
« Harvey, behave »
« Oh babe, you know pretty well I won’t »
« Harv, no. It’s — Hey »
« Hey Donna »
« Thomas »
« Harvey » whispered the other guy.
« Thomas, I’m pleased to see you. How are you doing since then? »
« Good, good. Hum, I see you’re doing great too »
« We couldn’t be better. I mean, we’re happy and in love, got married, made this beautiful baby together and it’s probably a matter of time before I got her pregnant again. Soon. Sooner than you think »
« Harv »
Although Donna was sometimes exasperated by her husband's childish behavior, she couldn’t help but melt. It was one of the things she loved about him: his presence and arrogance. He was unapologetic, didn’t care what others thought, loved to provoke, and while the former footballer was like that all the time, it was especially when it came to the redhead that he became impossible. Harvey was a jealous and possessive husband, madly in love and devoted to his wife, and even though sometimes she thought he took things too far — like now, when he was hinting to Donna that he was going to fuck her and get her pregnant — she couldn’t help but fall in love with him over and over again. In front of them, seeing Thomas uncomfortable, he couldn’t help but smile arrogantly before turning to his wife and whispering to her.
« Oh please, as you don’t like when we’re trying for babies »
Again, at his insinuation, and hearing Thomas clearing his throat, he stepped closer to kiss Donna, slipping his tongue inside her mouth quickly as the man left as fast as possible, and the redhead chuckled against his lips.
« You have to stop »
« What? »
« Oh, you know what »
« You’re talking about Thomas? You really think I made him uncomfortable? Oh, no »
« Harv »
« Next time I fuck you right in front of him »
« Oh my god »
Even though she laughed at his behavior, she couldn’t help but shiver as he looked at her with love and desire. After she pushed him away when he tried to slip his hand between her legs, both of them left for her dressing room as they waited for the show to start. While Donna performed two exceptional dances that night—one in the first part of the show and one in the second—Harvey stayed in the dressing room with their little girl, who was lying on the playmat on the floor, while he watched the show and glanced at the baby every now and then. When the host announced a special performance featuring former dancers, he smiled upon hearing his wife’s name. He then quickly got up, his daughter following him with her eyes as he approached, before picking her up in his arms and sitting down on the couch with her on his lap as he whispered.
« Look it’s mommy »
As she made a high pitched noise, he couldn’t help but laugh.
« Yeah, it’s her. You know, before her, I wasn’t really happy. I didn’t believe in love, I thought I was going to end up alone, that I’d never meet the love of my life, and then Mommy came along. I remember when Uncle Mike showed me her picture... baby, it was love at first sight. She was the most beautiful woman I’d ever seen, and if I thought that was what it meant to fall for a woman, it was when I saw her dance for the first time that I realized just how perfect she was. She made me feel things I had never felt before, and even though it scared me, I was addicted to her, I mean, look at her — »
« Da »
« Yeah, she’s insane »
For a few seconds, they both remained silent as they watched the screen, mesmerized by the redhead’s solo, until the end of the performance when the little girl started squirming against him. Harvey quickly turned her so she was facing him, sighing as he did.
« Look at you.. You’re pure perfection, looking exactly like mommy. I can’t believe I’m so happy to have you two in my life, you’re my greatest pride and joy. I love you so much »
« Da »
Even though she didn’t seem to understand her father’s words, Harvey couldn’t help chuckling when she planted her little feet into his thighs, pushing against them to stand up straight on her wobbly little legs before lifting one leg behind her as Harvey supported her while she gripped a few fingers with her tiny hands.
« Hey look at you, my little ballerina. You’ll be a great dancer like mommy, I can already see it »
For a few seconds, he let her babble and try out different leg positions before she fell back onto him, falling asleep a few minutes later in his arms as he patiently waited for the end of the show, watching Donna perform perfectly for the second time, unable to stop smiling. He had seen that routine about fifty times now, it had been two weeks since Donna had been training hard in the room that had become their gym, while he ran on the treadmill to stay in shape, and their daughter sat on her playmat, busy watching her mother with wide eyes. But now seeing her live on television, he couldn’t help but fall in love again and again, just like when he had officially met her in that studio. He never would have thought he could fall in love, let alone love his wife even more after three years of being together. And yet, every time he saw her as the perfect spouse for him and the perfect mother for his daughter, he realized that the word « love » didn’t even begin to describe what he felt. About ten minutes after the redhead's performance ended, the door opened softly, and Donna appeared.
« Hey »
« Hey. Congratulations, you nailed it. Incredible »
« Thanks, honey — has she been asleep for long? »
« About an hour, I’d say »
« Alright. I’ll take a quick shower, then we can go? »
« Of course »
A quarter of an hour later, Donna came out of the tiny bathroom, Harvey watching her with admiration as she pulled on a pair of leggings over her underwear and bra, slipping into one of his hoodies, thick socks, and sneakers, before she turned around with a big smile.
« Ready to go? »
« Yep, let’s go »
After getting dressed more warmly, Harvey transferred their sleeping little girl into Donna’s arms. He helped her settle the baby into the carrier against her chest before grabbing the dancer’s bag. The two of them left the studio hand in hand. Enjoying the mild outdoor temperature and their baby bundled up and asleep, they strolled through the streets of Los Angeles until Donna stopped.
« Look, this is where we went to get our pizza after playing baseball »
« I remember — craving pizza? »
« Of course »
About twenty minutes later, they walked leisurely, the redhead holding a large soda cup in one hand, the other gently caressing the baby’s back while Harvey held the pizza box in one hand and a slice in the other. They alternated bites, one for him, one for her, while Donna instinctively held the straw up for Harvey to share the drink. Seeing the former footballer lost in his thoughts, she murmured.
« Hey, are you okay? »
« Yeah, yeah »
« What’s going on? »
« Nothing. It’s just seeing you dance on the show tonight, it kind of hit me, you know »
« How so? »
« You changed my life, Donna »
« Harv — »
« I never thought I’d be this happy one day. I started Dancing with the Stars because I was lost and had no idea what was going to happen for me — I was so scared. Then you came into my life, and you were like a breath of fresh air, as if all that stress and the demons from my past that had been holding me back from being happy finally disappeared. At first, we were just dance partners, and even though, let’s be honest, I thought you were so beautiful and I was interested in you, you gave me so much more. I was so afraid that we wouldn’t work, that I wouldn’t be good enough and that I’d ruin everything, or that it would just be a fleeting thing and I’d end up suffocated again, but you gave me everything. I thought I’d finally be happy with you, but in the end, what I feel is indescribable. You give me more than I could ever ask for — your love, a home, a happy marriage, and a beautiful baby when I didn’t even believe in it anymore. You changed my life. I’d even say you saved my life »
« Harvey »
As she looked at him with wet eyes, both of them stopped walking as they looked at each other with love and tenderness. After a few seconds, he stood closer, moving the pizza box away from them to lean in and place a tender kiss on her lips, their baby warmly nestled between them, as he murmured against her lips.
« You’re everything to me, Donna. I love you so much »
« I love you too »