Daniel Crusher had been a widower for 5 years. His wife had died from a heart condition shortly after giving birth to their youngest son. She left him alone with 3 kids and a deep sadness in a house that suddenly felt too big.
He had no intentions of remarrying, even though he was one of the most eligible bachelors and was known to have had a few brief relationships. He could raise his children alone, or at least that's what he thought.
And then his younger brother comes along, backs him into a corner with a completely unthinkable proposal. When he found out why, he exploded in fury.
"How can you be so irresponsible?!"
But Daniel couldn't leave his brother and Laura to their fate. Much less abandon the little one on the way. Behind the ice shield he'd built around himself, there was still a warm-hearted man.
"Who is she?" he had asked.
And again, he hit the roof when Harry told him about Deanna.
"But if she goes to university with you, that means... she's your age?"
"Yes, she's 25 like Laura and me."
"Harry, are you insane? I'm 15 years older than her."
"She's the only one who might agree to this, Daniel. I don't know anyone else who would do it."
Not only did he have to marry a woman he didn't know, but she was 15 years younger than him. A college student he'd never seen in his life. This would be a disaster.
"Mom's going to have a heart attack, you know that."
"You can handle her, you've always gotten your way when you want something, even when our parents oppose it."
"This is different, Harry. You think they'll accept me suddenly marrying a younger woman, who nobody knows and who studies with you?"
"At least you can tell them I introduced you."
Daniel wouldn't have too much trouble imposing his will, but the story had to be believable. She was a very young woman for him and that wasn't his style. His brother was really putting him in a tight spot - there were too many things to justify.
He'd only officially dated two women in all these years, and only because of his mother's insistence that his children needed a mother figure. One of them hadn't had a problem with his three kids, but Daniel didn't like her. The other he didn't like either, but she made it easy because she had no intention of becoming anyone's mother. The rest of the few women were just casual or fleeting things of no importance.
"I need to meet her at least. Have you talked to her?"
"Not yet, I will this afternoon. I'm sure she'll help us. Thank you, brother, thank you."
"You better become an exemplary father and start getting your act together."
"Of course I will, Laura and our baby deserve nothing but the best."
"I'm glad to hear that."
Things had been very different for him and his late wife. Although they married young, like Harry and Laura, Daniel had already finished his studies and started working in the family business.
He'd been very responsible and dedicated since childhood. While other kids his age played sports or games, he learned languages. While his classmates traveled around the world, he took math and statistics classes. He had incredible discipline for someone so young.
He always behaved like a gentleman, was austere and conservative, and followed family traditions to the letter. Thanks to that, his parents rarely forbade him anything, and he was able to marry his high school sweetheart at a young age.
They were a happy family; his wife balanced Daniel's somewhat cold and strict character. They harmonized perfectly, were an adorable couple. Then came the children and with them more happiness. That's why when Emily died, his whole world collapsed.
Daniel had no choice but to focus on his three children and his work; he couldn't fall apart. Now he was the only pillar left standing.
His sister helped with the kids the first year. But as with everything in his life, Daniel proved capable of being a good single father. Maybe a bit strict and inflexible in some ways, but very loving.
"As soon as I talk to Deanna, I'll let you know."
"Why are you so sure she'll accept?"
"Because it's Deanna."
"And what's that supposed to mean?"
"That's just how she is, she doesn't hesitate to support you or be there when you need her. She's a great friend."
"I see..."
"Just... could you try to be less... you?"
"What are you talking about?"
"You know, less... cold and serious. She's a great woman, Daniel, but you'll scare her off with your expressions."
"That's ridiculous, Harry."
In reality, he was quite the gentleman, but he had a tendency to be a bit... rude sometimes, without realizing it. It was simply his way of being. They'd given him a nickname that no one dared say in his presence: "Ice Face Crusher." And he had a reputation in business for being ruthless and rigid. He was always serious, rarely smiled, and tended to say what he thought regardless of how it might be received.
This had to work somehow, they were running out of time. Harry arranged a meeting for all four of them at his apartment to finalize the details and come up with a plausible story. Now that his friend was also on board, if he crossed his fingers and had enough faith, they might still have a chance.
"Does she know about the kids?"
"Yes, I mentioned them more than once... I think. Anyway, she won't have problems with that."
"We'll need to set rules regarding the children too."
None of them had any idea of all that their little "theatrical production" would bring about, or how it would affect the lives of "Mighty Dean" and "Ice Face." But the wheels were already in motion, the most complicated part would be getting both parents to accept the new daughter-in-law without too many questions.
That night, Deanna got ready as best she could. She put on a black dress and flat but somewhat elegant shoes. She didn't have many clothes that would make a good impression, but at least she had to try to get Daniel to like her. She was a bit nervous, but she drew out all her optimism from within and left for Harry's apartment.
For his part, Daniel also chose to wear something not too elegant, a bit conservative, but that wouldn't give away his age too much. Unconsciously, he was trying to adjust to his new "partner." He felt a bit... pressured by the fact that she was so young; maybe she'd see him as an old man and wouldn't want to continue.
What had Harry meant about being less himself? He didn't see anything wrong with how he was. He was a successful man with well-educated children and was highly respected in his social circle. His image was impeccable, serious, and admired by many. He was in a good position and was an excellent catch for any woman. Harry was very wrong... right?
Before leaving, he stopped by little Jonathan's room, who was already asleep. He picked up some toys from the floor and stood watching him for a few minutes. He thought about how Harry's child would have both parents together, while Jonathan had already forgotten his mother's face and could barely communicate with him. He didn't know what else to do for his son.
Daniel was the first to arrive at the apartment. He'd been there a few times over the years, but this time Laura's presence was noticeable in little things throughout the house. It was clear they'd been sharing the place for a while.For some reason, he felt nervous; this situation was very similar to when his mother set him up with her friends' daughters, except this time he came willingly. Maybe because this was the first time he was the one waiting for approval.A few minutes later, the doorbell rang - it was Deanna. The moment he saw her cross the threshold, he knew this would be harder than he'd thought. She entered with a huge smile and within seconds filled the place with her energy, as if radiating some kind of warm light. She wore her hair down, the abundant caramel-colored mane covering her shoulders.Daniel's first reaction was to stand up immediately, as if pushed by an invisible force. Upon seeing him, Deanna didn't hesitate to approach and stand before the tall, dark-hai
The next day, Daniel met with his parents. He needed to stay as calm as possible and tell them the news naturally; without wavering while following the story to the letter, or no one would believe the charade."Well, we're here son. What did you want to talk to us about?" his mother asked."I'm getting married.""What do you mean you're getting married? What are you talking about, Daniel?" His father was a bit surprised, it was something he never expected to hear from him again."I'm getting married in a few weeks, Dad, and I want the whole family to meet her.""Wait a moment son, wait... Who exactly are you marrying?""Deanna.""Who? Who is Deanna?"He knew his mother would flood him with questions. She wanted her grandchildren to have a woman's presence while growing up besides herself or Susan, but this was too sudden. Neither of them was prepared to hear what Daniel had to say."Deanna is Harry's university classmate. We've been dating for several months now and I've decided to ma
Laura knocked on her apartment door; Deanna wasn't expecting her. Classes had been canceled that day, and she'd taken advantage of it to organize and do some cleaning; otherwise, she wouldn't be back until late afternoon. She was supposed to finish her degree with Harry this year; now she'd have to wait a bit longer."Sorry to bother you today.""Not at all, Laura, come in... It's a bit messy because I was cleaning up.""Thanks. I'm here on a mission.""A mission?""Yes, my brother-in-law gave me his credit card and today we're going shopping together.""I guess the family meeting is already planned.""Yes.""Well, I'll do my best.""Really, Deanna, I don't know how to thank you for what you're doing. I know you didn't get a good impression of Daniel the other night, and you'll have to postpone your studies for us. But you don't know what this means to me." She placed both hands on her belly."I'm more than happy to help, don't be silly. That little seed growing inside you will have t
But before the family meeting, Daniel needed to make sure his future wife passed "quality control." He was very aware that Deanna wasn't used to moving in his social circles, and although he cared little about that, he knew his family would notice the smallest detail.So he talked to Harry and asked him to let Deanna know they'd be having dinner alone."Why don't you call her yourself?""Because I don't have her number.""You should have asked for it when you took her home, brother.""I didn't think it necessary. Call her for me and tell her I'll pick her up at 8."It wasn't the first time he'd gone to dinner with a woman, nor the first time he'd picked one up at her home. However, like the day he met her, Daniel again had this strange feeling in the pit of his stomach. But this time, since they were going to a nice restaurant, he went back to his usual three-piece suit. The vest was always a must in his suits, which set him apart from other businessmen with his elegance.Deanna had t
The atmosphere became a bit tense and Daniel simply looked to the side. He wanted her to leave already. During their date, he had strongly disliked her attitude and was annoyed by her conversation topics - she kept asking about his children. It was a vulgar way of showing her interest in Daniel, using his children to get to him."I was telling Mary it was you and she wouldn't believe it. What would Daniel Crusher be doing with a young girl in a place like this?" And she turned to look at Deanna."Hello," Deanna said, but she didn't respond. She was waiting for Daniel to explain."Is this your style now?" That was very rude of her."Excuse me, but I can hear you too." Lynda looked at her."And who are you?""I'm Deanna, nice to meet you.""Hi, and you are...?""Daniel's fiancée." Lynda laughed.The situation was escalating. She was trying to belittle her with absolute brazenness and being rude, she didn't even know her. What kind of person was this woman?"That's right," Daniel said."
Camila had gotten ahead of her son and spoken with her grandchildren about what their father was planning to do. Daniel was furious - this was something that only he should have done. But Camila was very worried about the decision he was about to make and wanted to warn her grandchildren. Things were getting a bit out of control."What did you tell my children, mom?" Daniel's jaw was clenched."That you're about to do something crazy and bring a woman into your house who's barely old enough to be their mother.""I should have been the one to talk to them about this, not you.""They're my grandchildren, Daniel." Camila straightened in her chair, every inch the family matriarch."They're my children, and no one can interfere with my decisions or how I raise them, much less get ahead of doing something that's my duty."Camila didn't have bad intentions; she was distressed about all the scandal that was about to unfold. Daniel Crusher married to a young woman who clearly only wanted his
It would be best for the children to meet Deanna at their house, on their own territory so they wouldn't feel uncomfortable in public. But before that, he sat down with them to assure them that what their grandmother had told them wasn't true; he explained to the older ones that they hadn't known about her before because he needed to be sure things would work out. Perhaps when they were a bit older, he could give them the real reason.Daniel wasn't sure if little Jonathan had fully understood the situation; he was the one who worried him most of the three. Ethan had no complaints about it, telling his father it was his decision and he respected it. Naomi, being shyer, assured him there was no problem and that she hadn't listened to the things their grandmother had told her. Both children trusted their father, but they also didn't dare to contradict him.To try to make the meeting more relaxed, they invited Susan, Harry, and Laura. Maybe, surrounded by their aunts and uncles, they woul
Finally, the day of the family introduction arrived. Deanna's stomach was in knots, and she hadn't been able to eat all day due to nerves. If she made it through tonight, Harry and Laura could start their life together; if she failed... well, they still could, but she'd be in for a miserable year.Daniel, on the other hand, felt confident about what lay ahead. If he showed any weakness, he'd have to put up with his mother's constant meddling throughout the marriage. That couldn't happen - not only was his brother's wedding at stake, but also Deanna's well-being. She had put so many important things on hold to help them, and he felt compelled to protect her somehow.The gathering was set at Daniel's parents' house. Laura's parents and some close family members would be there too. Daniel had insisted on keeping it a simple, intimate dinner. E
Harry and Laura left for their honeymoon not far from the city; they would return in a few days, leaving her completely alone in her new role as wife. Alone with Daniel and the children trying to adjust to her new life and the family's daily routine.In the morning, the children went to school and Daniel to work, which left her with most of the day wandering around this big house not knowing what to do. She spent most of her time in the small room he had arranged to resemble a music room. They had even put in a piano and some other instruments. The acoustics were good and Deanna could sing without the sound traveling through the rest of the house.That first week she decided to stay on the sidelines to observe how she could fit in. In the morning they all had breakfast together, and then Daniel would drop the children at school on his way t
Daniel was waiting for her standing as she returned after her "show." She walked as if nothing had happened, slightly out of breath and trying to fix her hair."Come with me," he said in a restrained voice."Where?""Just come."She followed him until they left the ballroom into an empty room with stacked tables and chairs."What was that?" he asked, closing the door behind them."What was what?" Deanna crossed her arms."That... 'show' with Harry," he pronounced the word 'show' as if it burned his tongue."We were just dancing," she replie
The wedding reception was at the same hotel where the brides had gotten ready. A grand decorated ballroom, tables arranged around a dance floor, and a head table where the four newlyweds would sit. A grand event for what was supposed to be just a family dinner.Gradually, people filled the place, greeting the parents of the newlyweds. The two couples arrived a bit later; Deanna insisted on just making a quick appearance, and Daniel agreed because he couldn't stand being the center of attention."Deanna! That was beautiful," Susan exclaimed."Thank you.""Really wonderful. Did you know she could sing like that, brother?""No, I didn't," Daniel replied while Deanna blushed.
The invitations were sent, all services and the church were booked. Everything was ready, waiting for them. Only Laura's dress was missing; two weeks was too little time to find the ideal one, much less have it made. But it was enough time for Deanna to find hers, which turned out to be very similar to the style her favorite soprano had worn in her day.A white dress, off-the-shoulder and form-fitting, but with draped fabric in the skirt. Nothing spectacular; the simpler, the better. She wasn't supposed to be the star that day - Laura was - and achieving that would take more than just a dress. She'd need help from a few more people.The guests would be family members from both sides, closest friends, and of course, several university classmates - something she was counting on. Deanna loved Harry and Laura dearly; they were like siblings to
There was a chance that Laura and Harry could have the wedding they deserved. What did she have to lose by trying?"Actually, Laura, I was thinking... how about a double wedding?"Laura looked at her, very surprised."Double?""Yes. Why not? You and Harry are planning to get married too, right? We could do it together."Harry knew Deanna and understood what she was planning."Deanna's right, we can do it together. It would be wonderful!""No, no, no, there are too many things to prepare and it's impossible in two weeks. Besides, it's too soon for you to get married, Laura," Laura's mother p
Finally, the day of the family introduction arrived. Deanna's stomach was in knots, and she hadn't been able to eat all day due to nerves. If she made it through tonight, Harry and Laura could start their life together; if she failed... well, they still could, but she'd be in for a miserable year.Daniel, on the other hand, felt confident about what lay ahead. If he showed any weakness, he'd have to put up with his mother's constant meddling throughout the marriage. That couldn't happen - not only was his brother's wedding at stake, but also Deanna's well-being. She had put so many important things on hold to help them, and he felt compelled to protect her somehow.The gathering was set at Daniel's parents' house. Laura's parents and some close family members would be there too. Daniel had insisted on keeping it a simple, intimate dinner. E
It would be best for the children to meet Deanna at their house, on their own territory so they wouldn't feel uncomfortable in public. But before that, he sat down with them to assure them that what their grandmother had told them wasn't true; he explained to the older ones that they hadn't known about her before because he needed to be sure things would work out. Perhaps when they were a bit older, he could give them the real reason.Daniel wasn't sure if little Jonathan had fully understood the situation; he was the one who worried him most of the three. Ethan had no complaints about it, telling his father it was his decision and he respected it. Naomi, being shyer, assured him there was no problem and that she hadn't listened to the things their grandmother had told her. Both children trusted their father, but they also didn't dare to contradict him.To try to make the meeting more relaxed, they invited Susan, Harry, and Laura. Maybe, surrounded by their aunts and uncles, they woul
Camila had gotten ahead of her son and spoken with her grandchildren about what their father was planning to do. Daniel was furious - this was something that only he should have done. But Camila was very worried about the decision he was about to make and wanted to warn her grandchildren. Things were getting a bit out of control."What did you tell my children, mom?" Daniel's jaw was clenched."That you're about to do something crazy and bring a woman into your house who's barely old enough to be their mother.""I should have been the one to talk to them about this, not you.""They're my grandchildren, Daniel." Camila straightened in her chair, every inch the family matriarch."They're my children, and no one can interfere with my decisions or how I raise them, much less get ahead of doing something that's my duty."Camila didn't have bad intentions; she was distressed about all the scandal that was about to unfold. Daniel Crusher married to a young woman who clearly only wanted his
The atmosphere became a bit tense and Daniel simply looked to the side. He wanted her to leave already. During their date, he had strongly disliked her attitude and was annoyed by her conversation topics - she kept asking about his children. It was a vulgar way of showing her interest in Daniel, using his children to get to him."I was telling Mary it was you and she wouldn't believe it. What would Daniel Crusher be doing with a young girl in a place like this?" And she turned to look at Deanna."Hello," Deanna said, but she didn't respond. She was waiting for Daniel to explain."Is this your style now?" That was very rude of her."Excuse me, but I can hear you too." Lynda looked at her."And who are you?""I'm Deanna, nice to meet you.""Hi, and you are...?""Daniel's fiancée." Lynda laughed.The situation was escalating. She was trying to belittle her with absolute brazenness and being rude, she didn't even know her. What kind of person was this woman?"That's right," Daniel said."