Reunited Paths: A Father's Journey (Harvey Specter ff)

Saying Goodbye

Harvey had no idea what he would do after he took Mike home. But for the moment, all he could do is be there for his son. Harvey continued to hold Mike close, feeling the tremors of his son's sobs as they began to subside. He moved his hand from the back of his son's head down to his back. Slowly rubbing his son's back to comfort him. He whispered soothing words, "I've got you, buddy. Everything's going to be alright." Mike's breathing started to even out, and he clung to his father, finding solace in his presence.
After a few moments, Mike pulled back slightly, wiping his eyes with the back of his hand. "Thanks, Dad," he said, his voice still shaky but steadier than before. Harvey smiled warmly at him, giving his shoulder a reassuring squeeze.

Harvey's secret talent had always been reading people so he knew the hesitation, uncertainty and overwhelm that Mike felt. There was something in his eyes that gave him away. Harvey should note that for later. Very softly, Harvey began "I know it's been a long time, and things are really tough right now," he said softly. "But I'm here for you, Mike. We'll get through this together."

As they sat in the hospital waiting room, the weight of the moment hung heavy in the air. Harvey wrapped an arm around his son, offering silent support as they braced themselves to say their final goodbyes to Mike's mom.

The were drawn out from their moment by the doctor addressing the mostly empty waiting room, "Family of Ms. Ross?". Harvey watched as Mike walked slowly and cautiously to the doctor. His whole body looking sad, worn and tired. He exchanged eye contact as Mike looked back to see if Harvey was following him. Harvey just a few steps behind him, taking long strides to caught up with Mike. Both boys reaching the doctor at the same time. Harvey placed a gentle hand on Mike's shoulder to let him know that he was by his son's side.

They both took a small breath, waiting for the doctor to tell them that they could see her.

The doctor started by informing Harvey that was  paperwork that he had to fill out in order to release her to the funeral home. But in the meantime, they could both go in and see her. Harvey was uncertain if Mike could handle seeing his mom in this state but decided it wasn't really up to him to deprive his son from saying goodbye to his mom. He figured Mike needed the closure. Harvey knelt down to get to his son's level. His hand automatically finding its way to Mike's shoulder. He looked him square in the eyes, and began to speak softly, "Mike, I know seeing her is going to be hard but I think it's important that we say goodbye. She loved you so much, and I know she would want you to be there." Mike nodded, his eyes filled with tears but his expression determined. Together, they walked down the hallway, each step feeling heavier than the last.

As they entered the room, the air felt thick with emotion. Harvey could feel Mike's grip tighten on his hand. The sight of Ms. Ross lying peacefully brought a wave of sorrow over them both. Harvey whispered, "Take your time, Mike. We're in this together." Mike took a deep breath, stepped forward, and began to speak to his mom.

His little brave voice breaking through the silence, "Mom, I'm going to miss you so much. I remember all the times you took care of me and made me feel better. I promise I'll be strong and make you proud."

Harvey watched, his heart aching but also swelling with pride at his son's courage. He knew this moment would stay with Mike forever, shaping him in ways he couldn't yet understand. Harvey gently squeezed Mike's shoulder, offering silent support as Mike poured out his heart, saying the words he needed to say.
Harvey stepped back, letting Mike have his moment with his mom. Mike finished by climbing up and placing a kiss on his mom's forehead. He climbed down, wiping the tears that had escaped his eyes. He looked at Harvey indicating that it was Harvey's turn to speak to his mom.

Mike didn't know if Harvey would say anything to his mom. He didn't know whether they kept in contact until recently. Mike knew that Harvey and his mom didn't get along enough to co-parent. Harvey was never around. At the beginning, he would be over for dinner,  special occasions, and holidays. But he gradually cut contact from Mike. For the longest time, Mike thought it was because of him. His mom would always reassure him that it wasn't because of him. She would start by saying , "Harvey's busy, he doesn't have time right now", and then it was "Harvey just texted saying that something came up" and finally it became "It's just Harvey being Harvey."

Harvey took a deep breath, stepping forward to face Mike's mom. He hesitated for a moment, despite having talked to her a few weeks ago, the weight of years of unspoken words hung in the air. Finally, he began to speak, his voice steady but filled with emotion.

"I'm sorry," Harvey said, his eyes not knowing where to look but opting to look at her closed eye's. "I'm sorry for all the times I wasn't there, for all the moments I missed. I thought I was doing the right thing, but I see now how much it hurt you and Mike. I'm sorry I wasn't there."

He paused, glancing at Mike, who was watching intently. "I want to make it right," Harvey continued. "I want to be there for Mike, to be the father he deserves. I know I can't change the past, but I can be better going forward. I'm sorry it took all this to happen for me to figure this out. I promise all be better."

Harvey stepped back, his heart heavy but hopeful. He knew this was just the beginning of a long journey, but he was ready to take the first step. For Mike, and for himself.
He took another deep breath, feeling the weight of the moment. Memories of missed birthdays, school events, and countless other milestones flashed through his mind. He remembered the vacations he never took Mike on, the stories he never read to him at bedtime. All the while, Mike's mom had been there, filling in the gaps, doing her best to reassure Mike that it wasn't his fault.
Harvey felt a sense of relief wash over him. He turned to Mike, who was watching Harvey with a mixture of hope and uncertainty. "I'm here, Mike," Harvey said. "And I'm not going anywhere this time. I promise."

Mike stepped forward, wrapping his arms around his dad in a tight hug. Harvey hugged him back, feeling the bond between them strengthen. He knew there it would be long journey with several challenges ahead. If he was being honest,  he was scared, but he was confident that they could face them together.