Jealous Harris

"Hi, Mallory, it's been a long time," Dominic greeted as soon as Mallory and Harris were close to the gate. "Yes. Such a long time already," Mallory seconded. "Please come in," she said, giving the security guard a nod to open the gate. "This is for you," Dominic handed the bouquet of flowers as soon as he entered. As Mallory accepted the bouquet of flowers from Dominic, Harris couldn't help but feel a surge of jealousy bubbling up within him. It was irrational, he knew that, but he couldn't control the pang of possessiveness that washed over him. "Oh, thank you, Dominic. You've never changed. You always love to give me flowers." Mallory sniffed the red roses. Harris rolled his eyes, hearing the man in front of Mallory used to bring her flowers while she was in St. David. "What more could he have done for Mallory." Harris's mind was occupied with internal questions and battles about Mallory's possible relationship with Dominic in St. David. Dominic, however, seemed unfazed by the situation. He leaned in and placed a soft kiss on Mallory's cheek, causing Harris's grip on her to tighten involuntarily. It was a subtle but deliberate move on Harris's part, a silent assertion of his presence. Mallory, caught between the two men, suddenly felt the weight of the situation. She pulled herself gently out of Harris's grip and introduced the two. "Dominic, this is Harris, Harriet's father," she said, her voice tinged with a hint of unease. Harris extended a hand to Dominic, their handshake carrying an unspoken challenge. "Nice to meet you, Dominic." Dominic, being a perceptive man, could sense the tension in the air. He shook Harris's hand firmly but politely, acknowledging the unspoken rivalry. "Likewise, Harris. Finally, I've met Harriet's father." Mallory, ever the peacemaker, tried to ease the situation. "Dominic and I met in St. David," she explained. "He helped me during a difficult time, especially during Harriet's birth." Harris's expression softened slightly as he glanced at Mallory, understanding the bond she shared with Dominic. He still couldn't shake off his jealousy, but he was willing to put it aside for the sake of maintaining a peaceful atmosphere, especially with his dear daughter's birthday. Dominic, recognizing the need to diffuse the tension, changed the subject. "I remember it's Harriet's birthday today." "You still remember her birthday? That's sweet of you," Mallory said. She was surprised and delighted at the same time. Harris thought the opposite. It's not that hard to remember someone's birthdate, especially when you are present when the child was born. "Dominic, would you like to stay for a while? Join us for Harriet's birthday celebration?" Dominic glanced at Harris, silently asking if it was okay. Mallory looked at Harris who didn't look happy inviting Dominic to the party. "Harris, it would be great to invite Dominic inside and introduce him to Harriet, right? After all, Dominic has helped me during my labor with Harriet." Harris, though still uneasy, nodded his approval. "Sure. Come on in." Harris's short reply. "I'd love to stay and celebrate with you all," Dominic replied, and they all made their way back into the mansion, putting aside their differences for the sake of the little girl who had brought them all together. As they returned to the joyous celebration inside the mansion, Harris couldn't shake off the lingering feelings of envy and insecurity that had surfaced during Dominic's unexpected visit. Walking between Mallory and Dominic, he felt like a silent sentinel guarding his territory, with Mallory on his right and Dominic on his left. Mallory noticed the tension in Harris's posture and attempted to defuse the situation. She gently slipped her hand into his, a reassuring touch that conveyed her loyalty. She felt like she needed to give Harris assurance even if she hadn't given her commitment to be his girlfriend again. "Harris, Dominic is just a friend who helped me during a tough time. There's nothing more to it," she whispered Harris nodded but didn't say anything. He knew he was being irrational, but he couldn't help the twinge of jealousy that gnawed at him. It wasn't just about Dominic helping Mallory during her pregnancy; it was about the fact that Mallory had a life outside of their shared history, a life that didn't revolve solely around him. Dominic, on the other hand, was perceptive enough to sense the underlying tension. He respected the unspoken boundaries and tried to engage in light conversation to ease the atmosphere. The guests were all eyes on them as they went back to the party. Heidi's eyes were wide, conveying a question of who might be the man walking with them. Mallory caught her reaction and even Scott, Amanda, and David were confused. She could only hope none of the guests would take a photo of them. She's tired of all the lies and rumors about her, Harriet, and Harris. "Sweetie, come here," Mallory called Harriet. "I'd like to introduce someone to you. This is Dominic, an old friend from St. David," she began. "He is the one who helped me when I gave birth to you, Harriet." "Happy birthday, young lady!" Dominic said, crouching down to Harriet's level and offering her a friendly smile. Harriet, who had been watching the exchange with wide eyes, returned his smile with childlike innocence. "Thank you! Nice to meet you. Are you mom's friend?" "Yes, I am, Harriet. You might not remember but I helped your mom take care of you sometimes when you were little." Harris rolled his eyes for the second time since Dominic came. He regretted letting Dominic in his house. For him, the man sounded like competing for Harriet's attention and for who had taken care of his daughter better. Harriet smiled. "I don't remember." "That's okay, you were so small back then but you've grown up so fast. You're a big girl now." "Yes, but I am Daddy's princess. He said I'll always be his baby." Harris smirked hearing his smart girl, being so loyal to him. Spoiling Harriet whenever he can has benefitted him. He was confident Dominic wouldn't get Harriet's favor. "Good for you birthday girl. By the way, what did you get as a birthday present?" "I got a puppy as a present, and a necklace from Mom," Harriet said enthusiastically. Dominic's eyes sparkled with interest. "A puppy? That sounds like the best birthday ever! What's your puppy's name?" Harriet beamed with pride. "Daddy named him Max!" "This is a beautiful party, Harriet. I'm so glad I could be a part of it." Harriet, the innocent beacon of the moment, smiled brightly. "Thank you! It's the best party ever! I never had a big birthday party before." As the celebration continued, the three adults made an unspoken agreement to put their differences aside for the sake of the birthday girl. Despite the tension and the unexpected visitors, the birthday party had been a success, and Harriet was beaming with happiness.