Got it!!! I've tried first two very thin screwdrivers, and have attempted to grab the small CD from the sides, but couldn't get deep enough to properly hook it, then resorted to a more "damaging" (but successful!!) method: I've used one of the very thin screwdrivers, have slided it on top of the CD, as far as I could push it, then used it similar to a lever, supported on the side of the laptop - I've scratched the CD, but have gotten it out. I've immediately burnt a couple of CDs, and have read some others, to make sure everything is OK. And sure was ...
Thank you all for suggestions and support,
Stef