A/N: Well, this is really the end. Once again, thank you for your kind and welcoming response to this small fic. I hope I'm able to fulfill your request for an epilogue full of fluff and tenderness. Please let me know if I did... Enjoy the first episode of S9 tonight and catch you all on Twitter! - XX, Bellesrad (Loren)


Epilogue

It's been two months since Donna had started CBT therapy with Dr. Lipschitz and she feels very much satisfied with the way she's evolved under his care. The anxiety attacks are 95% under control and she only has to resort to breathing exercises and logic based questioning to regain her composure. So far, she hasn't broken down the way she last did at the Firm's rooftop. But in part she has Harvey to thank for her progress. He's been supportive all along and his keen eye to detail, especially when it's about her, has been key to preventing the stress that may trigger her attacks. He's been an active and patient listener, never assuming how she feels, and allows her to feel and think freely, which she appreciates. And his tender, loving care and understanding is something she cherishes so much.

Ray is already waiting outside when she leaves Dr. Lipschitz office and she enjoys the crisp air of this beautiful late Summer evening. She's surprised to see Harvey step out of the backseat and that Specter smile melts her heart. He waves his hand at her and mouths a "hey". She smiles back at him and nods. He will forever make her feel like the teenager who's getting picked up for prom by the gorgeous popular guy. He walks around the car and reaches out for her. She slides her hand in his and he kisses her lips, lightly.

"Ready to go?" he asks and then he pulls the car door open,"Louis is waiting for us at the hospital. He's a nervous wreck."

"Please tell me you were supportive, Harvey," she says in an admonishing tone as she slides into the car seat and puts on her seatbelt. She watches as he heads to the opposite end and slides next to her in the car. Ray then begins to navigate the city streets heading in the direction of the hospital as they continue their discussion in the back of the town car.

"C'mon, Donna… it's Sheila who's having their baby! But he's acting as though it were him giving birth tonight," Harvey's voice is mocking as he responds with a smirk.

She slants her head and stares him down in that way that makes him feel like a child being called on for being petulant and mean by his very attractive preschool teacher.

"Ok, ok," he begins and rolls his eyes, "I promise that I won't bother Louis tonight…"

She smiles at him and reaches out to fix his tie.

"That's better Specter. It's their night and their child is coming into the world. It may not be a big deal to you but to them, it's their universe."

He nods in understanding and looks from her lips to her eyes and softly asks, wonder in his voice, "Who are you? And why are you so wise, like, always?"

She kisses his lips, knowing full well that that's exactly what he wants, and smiles as she leans into her seat comfortably.

"I've been telling you since the minute we met, Harvey… I'm Donna, and I know everything."

He smiles back and his hand reaches out for hers, their fingers easily intertwining. Bringing their joined hands to his lips, he kisses hers and then says, "I guess I'm just a lucky fool to have met you then…"

She smiles sweetly at him, "I think we both are lucky fools to have found each other, Harvey." And she squeezes his hand in reassurance.


They announced to the rest of the senior partners and associates within the Firm they were officially a couple a few days after the birth of Louis and Sheila's baby. With Harvey having to step up to fulfill the managing partner duties while Louis took some paternity leave to bond with both the baby and Sheila. Neither Harvey nor Donna wanted to confuse anyone and allow gossip to dampen their relationship.

To their surprise, everyone took it quite well and the sentiment among the Firm was more of a "Gosh! Finally!" While for others it was a given, since Harvey and Donna had always shared such a close relationship that they'd often assumed both were a couple already.

With that off their chests, they were able to enjoy the flirty banter and slight touches during their work hours. And there was no reason to hide whether or not they wanted to have lunch together or leave work at the same time. Granted, they always behaved as appropriately as possible being both C-suite managers. With Donna setting office sex as a hard limit, one in which they would not engage ever, as much as they both desired it at times. The glass walls of their offices making it too easy for someone to catch them going at it.

This weekend marks their three month anniversary and Harvey told her Friday night to pack a bag because they would be driving to Boston. She knows what that means and it makes her feel slightly anxious. Harvey would officially introduce her to his mother and granted, she'd already met Marcus but this time around, things would be under different circumstances.

So this crisp Saturday morning, she decides to wear her most comfortable slim cut black pants, a V-neck camel colored cashmere sweater along with her trusted ankle booties. it's best to be comfy while traveling but so is keeping a stylish attire. It's beginning to feel like Fall so she also takes a scarf and puts on her cute black captain's hat. She's packed a light assortment of casual clothes as she waits for Harvey to arrive with one of the muscle cars he loves to drive. To her surprise, though, he brings the Aston Martin DB9 claiming that he wants her to feel comfortable during the three and a half hours long drive.

They arrive at Lily's house and she feels just a tad nervous, something which she never experiences and is relatively easy for her to control. Harvey takes notice and holds her hand as they walk up the steps to the front door. He squeezes it and smiles at her, his brown eyes full of love and understanding. She smiles back at him and his touch helps calm her nerves.

Lily opens the door and smiles at them both, reaching for Harvey for a hug first, then he introduces Donna. Lily hugs Donna and with one hand she keeps a hold of Donna's arm while her other is holding Harvey's hand. Looking from her to him and back to Donna again, a smile on her face.

"So she is the one?" she whisper-asks Harvey and Harvey smiles sheepishly at her, "she's a pretty one, Harvey" Then turning to Donna she beams at her as she explains, "you know what, Donna? Come to think about it, Harvey has never brought a girl home..."

Donna raises both eyebrows and turns to Harvey with a look of mild surprise while he's looking all sorts of embarrassed.

"Mom… please," he begs but he knows that Lily is on a roll and nothing will stop her. Lily's excitement is palpable at seeing the woman, she knows he loves, standing here before them.

"Tell me more," Donna says, curiosity and humor in her voice, and she bumps her arm against Harvey's in mocking tease.

"Oh, I have many stories to tell you, Donna. But what kind of hostess am I? Please, step inside. I made this delicious dark roast Colombian coffee and baked Harvey's favorite strawberry pie to go along with it," she excitedly says as she walks into the house and invites them to follow her.

"Marcus said we would have lunch at his restaurant at noon. Katie and the kids will be there, as well. So you're in for a Specter family treat, Donna," Lily said as she reaches the kitchen and invites them to sit in the comfortable breakfast nook area while she begins to serve them coffee in artistically crafted coffee mugs. Donna offers to help but Lily claims she has everything set and ready.

Harvey reaches out for her hand over the table and squeezes it offering her a smile which she wholeheartedly takes in.

Serving the coffee and cutting slivers of pie for each of them, Lily continues to talk and tell them all about the little league game Marcus' son would be playing tomorrow. And also tells them all about how his daughter's performance in a school play, as well. All the while, Harvey is listening and looking at his mother with so much love and admiration. Donna can't help but feel giddy inside to see him so at ease in his mother's house.

She can tell that Marcus takes after Lily while Harvey's definitely Gordon's son. Brown eyes, light brown hair, quiet and observant just like his Dad. And her heart squeezes with love for the man that is long gone, but at the same time sends a silent thanks for raising his son to be the man Harvey currently is and whom she loves deeply.

They continue to have an amenable conversation. Lily asks them all about work and the City as well as giving tidbits on how Katie and Marcus are trying to make things as easy for the kids despite their recent divorce. Harvey's phone then rings, and he excuses himself to answer Alex's phone call.

"I see why he fell in love with you," Lily tells her as soon as Harvey leaves the kitchen, "Gordon always talked about you and how "Harvey was blind not to see what was right in front of his stupid face," his words!…"

Donna blushes and shakes her head. Gordon and her would engage in brief but fun conversations over the phone whenever he called Harvey at the office. Donna had even joined him for a coffee or lunch appointment while he was visiting NYC and Harvey was running late. He was a lot like Harvey but slightly more carefree and would constantly try to pair them together.

"By the way, now that you're here, I wanted to thank you," Lily says as she takes a sip of her coffee.

"What for, Lily?" Donna asks as she looks into the older lady's crystal blue eyes.

"For being Harvey's emotional support for years and for being the one constant in his life that has given him the strength to power through the ups and downs, both professionally and personally," Lily begins and takes Donna's hand into her own.

Donna offers the woman a genuine smile and listens quietly as she continues.

"But most importantly, for giving me back my son… I know you're that special person that encouraged him to mend our fences. You're a great person, Donna. And I admire and respect you for that," she ends and her eyes glisten with unshed, happy tears.

Donna nods and says, "He might be a full grown man, Lily. But a son will always need his mother. Please tell me you will never let him down…"

"You really DO love him…" Lily whispers, wonderment lacing her voice.

The redhead smiles and squeezes Lily's hands.

"With all my heart, Lily," she whispers.

They share a smile and let go of each other's hands when they hear Harvey step back into the kitchen.

He frowns and points at them as he asks, "what have you two been up to?"

Lily smiles and pats Donna's hand.

"Just a girl to girl chat, Harvey," Lily responds and winks at Donna who smiles back.

Harvey shakes his head and with a roll of his eyes and a playful smile, mutters under his breath, "Women…"


She stirs as the delicious smell of freshly roasted coffee assaults her senses. Feeling his kiss on her bare shoulder helps make the waking up process just a little easier. She's smiling against the soft material of the pillowcase and dares open an eye. He's looking down at her, a smile on his face and two coffee mugs in his hands.

"Wake up sleepy head," he says and puts down her coffee on the night table. And she turns around in bed while demurely covering herself with the blanket, as she never bothered to put on a shirt after last night's love making session.

He leans against the bed and kisses her pouty lips. The kiss is soft and gentle and she sighs against his mouth. She can feel him smile and she opens her eyes as he retreats.

"C'mon honey," he says and winks at her, "join me for breakfast."

She nods and lifts a finger signaling to give her a minute.

"One minute," he says laughter in his voice as he walks out of the room, "Don't make me come back and get you."

She laughs and picks up the coffee mug and has a sip. She releases a sigh of pleasure at how perfect this all feels. She looks around and figures it must still be pretty early. The mild Fall sunlight coming in through all the windows is not as intense and the large crystals offer a panoramic view of the ocean in the distance. This is the first time Harvey has taken her to his house in The Hamptons and so far, she's loving the beautiful views and the peaceful air. The noise and stress of the city seemingly so distant from this tranquil piece of heaven.

She's wearing her silk pajama pants, a camisole with an oversized cardigan and her favorite warm Ugg slippers as she enters the kitchen. She takes a minute to watch him at work. He's plating their breakfasts and placing them on a tray and is he humming? What is he humming? She shakes her head in delight at finding a new thing about him. She loves him in a suit but Harvey Specter in charcoal lounge pants and a beige cable knit sweater is absolutely decadent. When he finally notices her he catches her leaning on the other side of the kitchen counter and she's full on smiling. He wiggles his eyebrows at her and points at his lips. She smirks at him but fulfills his wish. She's backing away when he steals yet another kiss and says, "let's eat by the deck. It's a nice, crisp morning."

"Do you need any help?" she asks and he nods. Handing another smaller tray with maple syrup, a small jug of OJ and two small glasses he hears her complain, "no whipped cream?"

He slightly chuckles and raises an eyebrow at her, "I think someone forced me to use it all up last night…"

She giggles, "I don't remember anyone twisting your arm..." and she picks up the tray then heads for the deck.

He was right. The crisp morning air smells fresh and there's a slight saltiness that makes it pleasant. The sound of crashing waves and seagulls in the distance blend in to form a rhythmic soothing melody of nature. Meanwhile, the mellow sun rays create a kaleidoscope of colors, going from pastel pink to orange and yellow against the blue sky and white puffy clouds.

She sets the tray on the table and sits in one of the beach lounge chairs. They're comfortable and have an assortment of pillows each. She notices that there's also a throw blanket to accompany each chair and she grabs for one. The chilliness already seeping in through her thin pajama bottoms.

He walks out and joins her but he rearranges them so the two lounge chairs were next to each other and they could sit together. She watches him as he serves them orange juice and then hands over her serving tray which stands perfectly on the lounge chair making it easy for them to access their breakfast. He does the same with his and sits down.

Harvey turns to look at her and notices that she's actually looking back at him with loving eyes. Offering her a smile he shrugs at her in a boyish manner, using body language to question her motives. She leans over and gives him a quick kiss on the lips before turning back around to start her meal.

He's watching her intently, waiting for the moment. He recognizes it the minute it happens. Her eyes light up with wonder and the gasp that escapes her mouth as she picks it up are the tell tale signs. Pavé diamonds in the interlaced lanai setting shine brightly against the light, but not as brightly as the ones that surround the large oval shaped center stone.

Her mouth is still slightly agape and her eyes are bright with many questions when she turns around to him. He takes the ring from her and kisses her lips closed.

"I love you, Donna," his brown eyes are so earnest and open, full of love, "When you found me, my whole world changed completely... You made me beIieve in life again… And you've held my hand and heart for so long and I want to do that for you, too. I want to become the other half of you. Donna, would you marry me?" his voice is a soft, raspy whisper full of emotion and watches as a couple of silent tears flow down Donna's cheeks. He wipes one away with his thumb and the other with a kiss while he waits for her response.

"Yes, Harvey," her hazel eyes look so soft and beautiful as she gives him her answer, "I will marry you."

He takes her hand, her fingers tremble from all the emotions flowing through her. She covers her mouth as she gasps at how perfect it fits in her left ring finger. She turns and kisses him with so much tenderness, and she can feel his own love and devotion as he kisses her back.

He holds her face with both hands and then looks into her beautiful eyes.

"I love you, soon-to-be-Mrs. Specter," he whispers.

She smiles at him and winks as she responds, "Mrs. Paulsen-Specter"

He shakes his head and lets out a belly laugh, his eyes full of love as he leans back against the lounge chair and touches her chin with his thumb, "I can live with that..."

She leans against him and nuzzles against his neck as her arm goes around him for an embrace. He does the same and they come as close as they can be on the comfortable lounge chairs. Donna kisses his neck first, then his jaw and ends up at his lips. His hand coming to hold her face as she continues her assault on his lips, something he's more than happy to return. Her tongue licks his lips and he allows her full entry. His mouth tastes of coffee, vanilla and everything that made him, him. And she's certain that she will be happy to taste him like this forever...


He's late from work that Thursday night. Ever since Faye Richardson's recommendations came into effect they've had to do quarterly performance reviews with all the partners and associates. All done to ensure there were no liabilities or loose ends with their practice and keep on being one of the top law firms in Manhattan. Past mistakes were not to be made and that put a lot of pressure on Louis as managing partner, as well as all the name partners, and Donna as acting COO.

The fireplace is on and the lights are dim in both the kitchen and living room. He doesn't see her in any of these places nor their bedroom so he walks to the small office/tv room that's in the back, behind the fireplace wall. He finds her there, fast asleep on the comfortable couch, a throw blanket covering her from the waist down. He turns off the TV and sits on the ottoman that's across from the couch and looks at her. Loosening his tie and placing it on the side then chucking off his suit jacket, he makes himself more comfortable.

She stirs when he places the cufflinks on one of the glass tables that's next to the couch and she opens her eyes. He's rolling up the sleeves of his dress shirt and she smiles at him. He smiles right back at her and leans over to kiss her lips.

"How did it go?" she asks and sits up to give him space on the couch. He joins her and his arm surrounds her as Donna leans against his side. Kissing her forehead he sighs and replies, "It went well. The reviews came back looking ok and I think the report will be ready tomorrow for you to sign and mail. How are you feeling? Gretchen told me you left earlier because you were feeling ill..."

She's playing with the buttons of his dress shirt and he looks down at her when she doesn't utter a response to that. He knows that something must be on her mind because she does that whenever she's nervous.

"Hey," he whispers and his thumb delicately brings her chin up so he can look into her eyes, "what's wrong?"

She smiles at him and extricates herself from his arms and reaches for a large antique-looking wooden box. Without uttering a word, she hands it over to him and he frowns. "It's not my birthday, Donna...you know that," his voice sounds confused as he looks at her and then at the box.

She shakes her head and rolls her eyes at him.

"Donna, why are you being so cryptic...you're scaring me," he says, an eyebrow shooting up and a playful, nervous smirk forms on his mouth.

She gently pushes the box that's already sitting on his lap, signaling for him to open it.

He shakes his head and snaps the box open.

She watches the myriad of emotions that mark his face. First there's a frown, confusion. Then there's the shooting up of his eyebrows, surprise. And a few seconds later, sudden realization marked by joy as he touches the many items within the box.

He turns to look at her, a questioning look on his face. Tears of emotion have formed in his eyes, a full blown Cheshire cat smile on his face. He points at the box and its items and she nods. Setting the box on the ottoman, he reaches for her and hugs her. He kisses her forehead with quiet devotion, and then looks into her beautiful hazel eyes, adoration and love on his, and then he kisses her lips.

He holds her in one arm as he bends over to grab the box again. She's propped against him as they both look at the contents: the bottle of Macallan 30 is on the left side. Next to it sits some pretty footie pajamas in pink, white and gray that read "wild about daddy", a pacifier with similar wording is at the top and a pair of delicate baby booties. There's also a CD with his Dad's handwriting that reads: "For my grandkids" signed Gordon Specter.

He takes it in his hand and flips it around. There's an assortment of lullabies and songs from his childhood engraved in his Dad's elegant cursive.

He turns to look at Donna, confusion all over his handsome features and asks, "how...when did Dad give this to you?"

She reaches out for it and stands up to play it in the sound system. Even though he's a vinyl lover, Harvey still keeps a state of the art audio system with a varied types of music players. The sounds of a piano intro followed by the soft jazzy notes of the saxophone fill the air as it plays a familiar tune: twinkle, twinkle little star.

"Gordon gave it to me the last time he visited the city. You were running late from court and he told me, his words, to indulge an old man and have a bite with him. We went to the bar that's close to work, and he ordered us a good burger and a beer. We talked about many things and he shared some old stories about you growing up. Then as we were ready to go he pulled out the cd and gave it to me. Said: Promise you will give it to Harvey when he becomes a Dad, Donna."

Donna watches as his features change from love to pain to love again as he listens to her story. He reaches out a hand to her and guides her to sit on his lap. Tears are streaming down his face, and with much affection and patience, she kisses them away.

He looks into her worried hazel eyes, and he realizes that this is not the moment to be sad. This is a moment to celebrate. So, instead decides to focus on that emotion and cleans the remnant of his tears. He's still holding her on his lap when he reaches for the box. Pulling out the footie pajamas and little booties he raises an eyebrow, his moles adding to the playfulness of his look.

"So...we're having a baby?" he asks his face full of pride and affection. Donna nods at him and she feels her heart squeeze with so much love when she hears him tenderly say, "this is the best present ever. I love you, Donna..."

They hold each other tightly in a warm embrace, and she closes her eyes when he kisses the top of her head. Then she feels his breath hitch and she gives him a questioning look.

"And you're sure it's a girl?" he asks remembering how she'd predicted Mike and Rachel's baby gender.

"I'm pretty certain," she replies and laughs at the shock that's painted on his face, "what are you so nervous about? You're not the one who's going to be double teamed by a couple of gorgeous but stubborn and demanding Specters…"

He laughs, holding her against his chest again as he reaches out a hand and places it on her still flat abdomen, "I promise we will not make it difficult for you, right baby Specter? We will love and cherish Mommy 100% of the time..."

"Promises, promises…" she playfully sing-songs and looks into his pretty brown eyes.

His eyes soften, and dips his face to touch her lips with his. Love and reverence poured into their kiss, as the soft jazzy melody shrouds them in this wonderful cocoon they now call home.


The End