Page 40 of It Happened In Paris

“She’s tougher than you think,” he insisted.

“This has all happened so quickly. I just need time to catch up and decide how to explain this to her.”

“Don’t I get a say about it, too, as her father?”

“Of course you do, but please, let’s hold off for now. We can talk about it later today and figure out how to tell her together.”

“Okay, cupcake. I’ll follow your lead—for now.” He nodded, a skeptical smile touching his lips as he used my new nickname while we stepped off the elevator.

I grinned at the affectionate term, remembering our passion of the night before, yet a pang of guilt hit me for asking him to delay something so important, especially knowing how happy he was at finally having a daughter. I needed to come to terms with everything first, and for her sake think of the best way to do this.

Soon we reached Paris’ room and Dr. Ferguson emerged with a warm greeting. “Ah, there you are. I have more good news.” I peeked into the room where Paris enjoyed breakfast with her Uncle Keaton.

“Okay. Can’t wait to hear,” Richard said on our behalf.

“The test results are in. After consulting with my staff, we’ve determined that your kidney is the ideal match for Paris. As soon as you’re ready, we can begin preparations for the surgery immediately.”

At first, Richard just stared, unblinking, his eyes wide with disbelief at the news. Suddenly, pure joy overtook him; he burst out laughing, clasping his hands together and raising them to the heavens like in prayerful gratitude, while I hesitated. Yet, wasn’t this exactly what I had always secretly wished for—a partner with whom I could share this journey instead of facing it alone?

Richard swept me up in his arms and spun me around. “Hear that, cupcake? It’s me. I can save her.”

“Why did you call Mommy cupcake?” came Paris’ curious question from the doorway. Quickly, Richard set me down as we exchanged a look. When I didn’t reply immediately, he added, “Well, she bakes cupcakes—I thought it was a perfect nickname.”

“Do I have a nickname?”

“Why, yes. How about my little explorer? After all, once this is over, we’re going to take you on a world tour.”

“Okay, yippee,” she beamed and clapped, returning to her breakfast.

Perhaps Richard was right that Paris would take the news well. Out with the old father. In with the new, fun, and better one.

“You know what I think?” Richard said, wrapping an arm around my shoulder as we watched our daughter with tender admiration. “She’s far smarter and more capable of handling things than you give her credit for.”

“Yes, maybe so. Still, let’s talk later, just the two of us. There’s no rush, right?”

“Sure, but we’re moving forward with the operation, aren’t we? I just discovered she’s my daughter, and if I have a chance to save her and help her regain her health, I’ll take it.”

“Are you absolutely sure you’re willing to donate a kidney for her? It’s a major operation—the ultimate sacrifice for a little girl you’re only just beginning to know,” I said, needing reassurance that he truly understood the gravity of his decision.

“Time loses meaning in moments like this. Just like when I first saw you, the moment I met her, there was an unbreakable connection. Even though everything is new and uncertain, I’d fight in a heartbeat for you both to have the life you deserve.” He caressed my cheek as he looked deeply into my eyes. “I’ve never been more certain about anything. She’s my daughter, Vivian. There’s nothing I wouldn’t do for her—and you.”

“I can’t argue with that, can I? I’m sorry I hesitated for a moment. It’s been such an ordeal?—”

“I know. Come here.” He enveloped me in a comforting embrace. “Let me share your burdens. You’re not alone anymore, remember?”

Tears welled in my eyes as I nuzzled close. “Yes, Richard, let’s go ahead with the operation.”

“Oh, cupcake, you’ve made me the happiest man alive.”

“Are you two going to keep hugging all day or come eat breakfast?” Paris called from inside her room. We both laughed and joined her, and I instantly felt lighter, as though Richard had taken many years of worry off my shoulders.

As we finished breakfast, unexpected visitors arrived. Rex and Chelsea, with her friend Sophie from the city, along with Flora, too.

“Gramma!” Paris lit up at the sight of her and dove into her arms.

“I missed you, my little Paris-girl. I brought your favorite slice of strawberry pie,” Flora said, setting it aside.

“I missed you, too. Mommy, can I show Gramma Flora the playroom?” Paris asked. I nodded, happy to see the two reunited, and they went off to the common area to play.

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