A/N: Again, you all are simply great. I appreciate the wonderful reviews. This chapter is a little on the angsty side (I believe I'm done with Dipshit after this) with some happy moments in it as well. I hope you enjoy it.
/
Marissa sat on the bench in her favorite spot in the park on a lovely Spring day, lost in thought. She knew Bianca would be worried about her, but she just needed a little time to herself to think and decompress. For the most part, the last few months had been wonderful. Her relationship with Bianca was stronger than ever, and they were more in love each day. Marissa smiled as she thought of her girlfriend. It was something she did whenever she thought of her. It was a reflex. It was something she was unable to stop. Loving Bianca was so easy, so right, so perfect. It was pretty much second nature to her just like breathing, and she couldn't remember a time when she wasn't in love with Bianca. She was a constant in her life. The one person she could always count on to be there for her, beside her, no matter what, and she had been absolutely amazing these past few months. Marissa had no doubt that her girlfriend was the reason she had been able to get through them. No, the problem was not Bianca, never her.
The problem, as always, was JR. From the day he found out about Bianca and Marissa's relationship, he had made it his life's work to cause them as many problems as possible in hopes of making their life together a living hell, of breaking them up. He seemed to think of this as some sort of game or a challenge for him to win. This was her life, Bianca's life, and not some damn game. Marissa shook her head and again tried to understand why. Why couldn't he move on? Why couldn't he let her go? Why couldn't he accept the simple fact that she wasn't in love with him and that she didn't want him? She was in love with Bianca and wanted her and no one else, most especially him. Marissa closed her eyes and took a deep breath in an attempt to release the tension that always occurred whenever she thought about him. Usually, she was able to push thoughts of her ex-husband from her mind when she did this, but it wasn't working this time. The memories of the unpleasantness of JR would not be silenced this time and bombarded her as they fought for dominance in her mind against all thoughts of Bianca.
/
It was New Year's Day. Kendall and Zach had come over early with the boys. While all five children played in the family room, the four adults sat in the kitchen discussing JR's impending visit.
"I hate to say it, Zach, but you're right. I should get a security system installed."
Bianca took her hand. "I know you don't want to do it, Marissa, but I wouldn't past JR to either break in himself or hire someone to do it in an attempt to dig up something or even plant something incriminating."
"He's just slimy enough to do it too. I was talking with Greenlee after the two of you left the Yacht Club. She brought up the idea of him maybe planting a camera or bugging the place. I hate to admit it, but it's a very real possibility. It is the Chandler way." Kendall added.
"I know someone who can come over and do a sweep of the place after he leaves today to make sure that the place is clean once he's gone. I can also get someone over here tomorrow to install a state of the art system for you."
Marissa smiled. "It sounds good and thanks again. I'll talk to Mrs. Walker later today to try and explain what's going on. I'm sure she'll be okay with me having a system installed once I explain things. It's not a conversation I ever really expected to have with my landlady though."
Kendall sympathized with the redhead. "I'm sure it's not. So, we'll have the house secure as of tomorrow. How did it go with AJ?"
"It actually went pretty good. He's so smart and thoughtful. I told him that his dad knew that Bianca and I were together. AJ asked if he was upset. I told him that he was a little, but that he shouldn't be worried about it. His dad wasn't upset with him, and he loved him. It might take some time, but we would eventually work things out. I told AJ that he could talk to either me or Bianca about anything, anytime, and to let us know if he was scared or upset about whatever was going on. He wanted to know where he would be living since his dad was back in town. I told him that when JR was in town he would be here with me some of the time and with his dad some of the time, just like before. I would call him every day he wasn't here, and he could call me whenever he wanted to as well. It didn't matter what time. I would always make time for him. He then told me he was worried about me being here by myself. He didn't want me to be lonely. I told him I would miss him every day he wasn't here but not to worry about me."
Bianca gave Marissa's hand a supportive squeeze. "I know it's going to be hard not having AJ with you every day, but the girls and I will do our best to make sure you're not lonely whether it's here or at Wildwind or wherever."
"I know you will, and I'm so glad I have you, all of you. I just got so used to AJ being here every day while JR was gone. I'll at least have AJ here until next weekend since JR was supposed to be out of town until then."
"As for AJ, Miranda has promised to keep an eye on him during the day when they're at school."
Marissa smiled. "She is so much like you."
Kendall nodded in agreement. "She really is, Bianca. Okay, what about the legal side?"
"I spoke with Caleb this morning and told him everything that happened last night since he missed some of it. He's already hard at work and is getting a copy of the tape from the security camera on the patio at the club. He wants to have visual proof of how threatening JR can actually be. In addition to that, he's already working on responses to likely challenges JR may bring such as me being involved with Bianca. Judging by his initial reaction last night, he just might try and play that card. I wouldn't put it past him. There's also everything that Krystal and David have done. I'm sure he'll try and use all of that somehow."
"All it takes is getting the wrong judge, one matching JR's current homophobic attitude, to have everything go to hell in a hand-basket. As for Krystal and David, it's best to get everything out on the table so it can be dealt with immediately. There won't be any surprises that way later on." Bianca added. "We're meeting with Caleb tomorrow to fill him in on some of JR's finer moments."
Kendall spoke through clenched jaws. "Like being responsible for your coma."
Marissa shivered at the thought of Bianca being so close to death, of the possibility of never having had the chance to know this extraordinary woman next to her, of not knowing what true love was. It was almost too much for her to bear.
Having seen the look in her girlfriend's eyes, Bianca pulled Marissa close to her and placed a loving kiss on the redhead's cheek. "Don't, Marissa. I'm okay, and I'm here. Kendall's right though. We need to let Caleb know everything."
The redhead released a shaky breath. "I know. It's just when I think about what he did to you, and what he did to you too, Kendall. I just…"
"All the more reason for me to give you any help you need." Zach added taking his wife's hand. "Did you talk with her about what we had discussed, Bianca?"
Marissa gave her girlfriend a puzzled look. "What?"
"I want us to hire a private investigator. Before you say no, let me explain why. I'm talking about hiring someone reputable. We wouldn't use anything they might dig up unless we absolutely have to. It's just another countermeasure for what JR might do. I promised you that I would do everything that I can to keep you and AJ safe. I honestly think this is another way of doing that."
Marissa carefully considered Bianca's argument, and it definitely had merit. The firm hired them all of the time for their clients. She never thought she would be the one in need of such services, but sadly, she was. She slowly nodded. "You're right. We should. I can get the names of the ones that the firm uses from Jack and Caleb."
The conversation was interrupted when Miranda entered the kitchen. "Mom, Ian spilled his drink. It's all over him and the carpet."
Bianca and Kendall got up and headed into the family room, Bianca to take care of the carpet and Kendall to take care of her son.
Marissa sat across from Zach. She could tell there was something he was holding back while the sisters were in the room. "You have someone else in mind, don't you Zach?"
He nodded knowing that Kendall was right about Marissa. She was sharp and didn't miss much. "I do. It's someone who can focus just on your case. They can head off any threats before they become part of the legal proceedings and part of the public record."
"And it's not a good idea if I know who it is or if Bianca's knows either."
"Yes, I think it would be best if neither of you know. I can contact them today."
Marissa knew exactly what threats Zach was alluding to, the horrific act that had happened to Bianca years before that had somehow managed to produce the miracle that was Miranda, and what Bianca had done to protect her beautiful daughter and herself. It would be low even for JR, but in his current state and if was desperate enough, she wouldn't put anything past him. There was no way in hell that she was going to have Bianca relive that nightmare in public nor was she going to allow either her or Miranda to be drug through the mud if she could prevent it from happening. "Alright, do it. I'll do whatever I need to do to protect my family, to keep them safe."
"Consider it done."
Bianca came back into the room and sat next to Marissa. "Everything okay in here?"
"Yeah, it is. How's everything in the other room?"
"It's fine. Ian got more on him than on the carpet."
"Tell me about it." Kendall said as she took her seat again. "I'm glad I brought a change of clothes for him."
Bianca looked at Marissa. "So, we're hiring the investigator?"
The redhead nodded. "We are. Zach was just telling me about someone he knows that does excellent work. I think we should go with them."
"Good. So, we have the kids, the house, the legal side and the private investigator all taken care of. What else?"
Kendall looked at the young couple. "I have one other thing, the two of you and your safety. I don't think either one of you should be alone with JR. I saw how he was looking at you last night, Marissa, and it made me very nervous. I also didn't like the look he was giving my sister on his way out. I don't know that he'll do anything, but personally, I'd feel better if you had someone else with you whenever he's around."
Marissa's phone rang. "It's Mrs. Walker. I should take this. I might as well talk to her about the security system now. I'll take this in the dining room."
Bianca watched Marissa leave and turned to her sister and brother-in-law. "You're right, Kendall. I don't want Marissa to be alone with him. I don't trust him to keep his temper in check around her, and I am not going to give him the chance to hurt her. I've waited too long to find someone like... No, I've waited too long to find her. I'm not going to lose her. I love her too much. She's everything to me."
Kendall took her sister's hand. "I know. I've never seen you happier than I have since you've been with Marissa. You're not going to lose her, Binx. I'm going to make sure of that. We'll take care of JR, and we're going to keep her, AJ, you and the girls safe. You have my word on that. You have our word on that, okay?"
Bianca nodded. "Okay."
"Mommy!"
"Mom!"
"We better go see what the kids want."
"Let's go."
The three headed into the family room to check on the children.
Several minutes later, Marissa entered the family room immediately catching Bianca's attention. They ducked into the kitchen for some privacy. The brunette could tell by the look in her girlfriend's eyes that something had happened.
"What's wrong?"
"It's just a warning shot, but it's started. It seems Mrs. Walker received an offer to buy the house at twice its current value."
"Twice its value? Who? Oh, JR of course."
"Yep, who else? The offer is contingent on the sale being completed by the end of the week."
"You've got to be kidding me."
"He's trying to throw me off balance, trying to make it so I can't concentrate on any custody threat by having to worry about finding a place to stay. It also looks better for him. It could be argued that it's better for AJ to stay with him full time since he'll have the stable home while I'm scrambling to find a place to live."
"We'll start looking for a new place for you now. In the meantime, there are extra rooms at Wildwind. The two of you can stay with us if you want."
"I know, but there's no need. She's not selling."
"That's good news. JR should be really pleasant when he stops by later though."
"I got a text from him while I was talking to her. A last minute meeting popped up, and he won't be able to make it today. He's going to call AJ later. I guess he realized it wouldn't be a good idea to show up here in an extremely foul mood with witnesses around."
"Yeah, that's probably a good idea, and I've got to say I'm relieved by that. Did she say why she didn't want to sell?"
"She owns the house outright and doesn't need the money. Something just didn't seem right to her so she turned him down. He wasn't happy about it and was very vocal about that fact. The reason she called was because she was curious about what was going on. The house wasn't for sale, and this offer came out of nowhere. She was hoping I could shed some light on what was going on. So, I told her everything. I told her about us, and I did my best to explain everything that was happening and the reasons behind it."
"What did she say?"
Marissa smiled. "She was pissed off big time, at JR, and his overly generous offer had the exact opposite effect of what he had planned. She gave her permission to install the security system. I asked if she would be willing to repeat what happened today to Caleb, and she is more than happy to help. It turns out that she thought we were together the very first time we met her, and she thinks we make a lovely couple."
Bianca laughed and pulled the redhead close. "She does, huh? I have to say that I always liked her, and she's right. We do."
Marissa could feel all of the tension and anxiety she had felt earlier melt away as she looked at her girlfriend and listened to her laugh. She marveled that Bianca always had this effect on her. Whether she was aware of it or not, her girlfriend would do something that would give her the confidence, the belief that everything would be somehow be alright. "We really do. I love you so much."
"No more than I love you." Bianca added before closing the distance between them for a loving kiss.
/
JR's next move came a few weeks later. It had been tense but quiet since he tried to convince Mrs. Walker to sell the house which would have effectively kicked Marissa out of her home and scrambling for a place to live. Bianca had warned her not to let her guard down, and she hadn't. Caleb appointed himself as her lead counsel, something she was more than happy with, and had been working on her case non-stop, gathering statements and evidence so they would be ready if and when her ex struck.
JR had told her he was going out of town for a quick business trip that weekend so she would have AJ from after school that Friday through the following weekend. Marissa was more than thrilled with this development. The kids had an early dismissal that day, and she waited outside the school to pick up both AJ and Miranda. Bianca and the girls were going to spend the weekend, something that happened more often than not lately. It had been decided earlier in the week that they would stay in tonight and have a movie night. As Miranda approached the car, Marissa could see that the girl was upset.
"What's wrong, Miranda? Where's AJ?"
"He was called to the office a little while ago and never came back to class."
Marissa's blood ran cold as fear gripped her heart, but she didn't want to frighten Miranda. "He didn't, huh? Let's see if we can find out what happened." She calmly took the girl's hand, and they walked back into the school, heading straight for the main office.
The redhead found the secretary and addressed her. "Hello, I'm Marissa Tasker, AJ Chandler's mother. I'm here to pick him up but was told he had been called to the office before school was out and never went back to class."
"Yes, Ms. Tasker. AJ's father, JR Chandler, picked him up earlier for his dentist's appointment."
"He said AJ had a dentist's appointment? How long ago was that?"
"I'd say it was about an hour ago. Is everything okay?"
"No, it's not." Marissa pulled out her cell phone and immediately called Bianca.
"Hey, Gabby and I are just pulling up to your place now."
It took every ounce of strength Marissa had not to lose it and start screaming, but she had Miranda with her and didn't want to scare her. "He took AJ."
"What? JR took AJ? Tell me what happened."
"I'm at school with Miranda. She told me he was called to the office and never came back to class. The secretary just told me that JR stopped by an hour ago to take him to a dentist's appointment. He doesn't have an appointment. He just had his check-up last week. With an hour's head start, they could be anywhere."
"Okay, I'll call Zach and get him working on checking the airport, train station and whatever else he can he think of. I'll call Caleb too."
"I'm going to the mansion, but I don't to take Miranda with me."
"You're right. She doesn't need to go over there, and I don't want you going over there on your own. Call Kendall. She can get Miranda. Then, I want you to call Scott and make sure he's there before you go over. I don't want you confronting JR on your own. Promise me you'll call them, and you'll do what I ask, Marissa."
"I can't waste that much time."
"Promise me, Marissa."
The redhead took a deep breath. She could hear the fear in Bianca's voice. "I promise."
Not more than fifteen minutes later, Kendall and Greenlee pulled up in front of the school. "Hi, Miranda. I need you to go with Greenlee. She's going to take you to Marissa's house, okay?"
"Okay, Aunt Kendall. What about Marissa?"
"I'm going to take care of Marissa. Don't worry about her."
The girl nodded and gave Marissa a hug before getting in the car with Greenlee and heading off.
Kendall first gave the redhead a hug and then held out her hand. "Let me have your keys. I'm driving. You're in no condition."
Marissa nodded and did as she was told as they headed to her car. "Any word from Zach yet?"
"Nothing yet, but he'll find them. Ryan's helping him out. Bianca called Caleb. He's on his way to see a judge about an order against JR. Jack has called the police, and they're going to meet us at the mansion. How are you doing?"
"Not good, not good at all. I'm so scared, Kendall."
"It's going to be okay. We've got lots of people on this, and we're going to find them. You'll have AJ home with you before you know it."
"I hope you're right. How's Bianca?"
"Scared and worried about you and AJ, but she's trying to keep everything together so she can be strong for you. Try not to worry about her. Greenlee will make sure that she's okay and stays at your house."
"Good. I'm glad Greenlee will be there to keep her safe."
As they pulled into the driveway of the Chandler mansion, Kendall glanced at Marissa. "I want you to take a deep breath before you get out of the car. Don't lose your temper because Dipshit will use it against you later, and remember that I've got your back. Got it?"
Marissa nodded. "Got it." Once the car came to a stop, the redhead did as Kendall requested, and took a deep breath before getting out of the car. They approached the front door and knocked.
Winifred opened the door and stepped aside as the women entered. "Mrs. Chandler, Mrs. Slater, is Mr. Chandler expecting you?"
"Hello, Winifred. No, I don't believe he is. Are AJ and JR here?"
"Yes, they are, but they will be leaving any minute. Mr. Chandler is taking AJ with him on his business trip."
Marissa felt Kendall place a hand on her shoulder, steadying her. "Where is AJ?"
"He's upstairs in his room. Would you like me to get him?"
"Yes, please." Marissa looked at the luggage in the foyer and turned to Kendall. "Business trip, my ass. Look at all of this luggage. He's getting ready to run with AJ."
"What the hell are you doing here?"
"JR, I'm here to pick up AJ. He's staying with me while you go out of town for business. Remember?"
"Well, I changed my mind, and I'm taking him with me."
"According to our custody agreement, neither of us is allowed to take him out of town without the other's permission. It's a violation."
"Look, I'm sure if we discuss this without others around, privately," he said glancing at Kendall, "that we can avoid any problems."
"I'm not going anywhere. I'm staying right here. She's not going to be alone with you."
"This isn't any of your business, Kendall."
"She's staying. Anything you have to say to me, you can say in front of her. So, you want to take AJ to New York for the weekend."
"That's right. We'll be back Sunday afternoon. It's no big deal."
"If it's no big deal, why did you take him out of school without telling me? Why not tell me about the trip, the change in plans?"
"I didn't want to bother you for something so trivial."
It was a weak response, and she could tell by the look in his eyes that he knew he was busted. "Nothing concerning AJ is trivial. I'm not buying it, JR. Since when do you need this much luggage for two nights in the city? It looks to me like you're planning a much longer trip." She spotted two passports on a table. "The last I heard, a passport isn't required to enter New York from here. Are you sure you don't have something else planned?"
"I don't care what you think. I don't have to explain myself to you. He's my son, not your's. I can take him anywhere, anytime I want."
"He's my son too, just ask the courts, and according to the custody agreement, you do have to explain yourself to me."
"Do you think you're going to stop me, that you can stop me, Marissa? You or Kendall?"
AJ appeared at the top of the steps and bounded down them running to hug his mother. "Mom! Dad said you told him something came up, and you couldn't watch me this weekend."
"Hi, buddy, of course I can watch you. Your dad must have been mistaken."
"Good! I'm looking forward to movie night. Do you think we can have pizza tonight?"
"I think we can arrange that. Why don't you go back up to your room and grab your backpack. We'll see what homework you might have and get that over with so we can enjoy the weekend."
"Okay. I just have some spelling and some math." AJ ran back upstairs.
"You're not taking him, Marissa."
"Actually, she is JR." The three turned to see Jack with Brot and Jesse standing next to him. "Is this enough evidence for you?"
Jesse nodded after seeing the luggage and the passports. "This along with what we found at the airport is more than enough to serve him."
Marissa looked at Kendall. "Would you keep an eye on AJ until this is taken care of?"
"No problem."
JR glanced at the papers Brot had just handed him. "What the hell are these about?"
"That is an emergency order giving Marissa temporary full custody of AJ along with a restraining order." Jack turned to Marissa. "The police received a tip that JR had the Chandler jet fueled and ready to go with a flight plan filed for Paris. When questioned, the pilot told them that JR had told him his son would be joining him, and there was no return date. A judge signed the order when he was presented with that evidence along with the fact that JR had removed AJ from school early despite his agreement to have him stay with you starting this weekend."
Marissa had turned and glared at her ex as Jack spoke. The smug look he had been wearing on his face quickly disappeared. "You son of a... You were just going to take him and run. For how long? What did you plan on telling him when he asked why you weren't coming back home? When he asked about me?"
"I don't have to tell you anything."
"Well, you'll have to explain yourself to the judge on Monday. A hearing has been scheduled for then to review the emergency order. I suggest you contact your lawyer." Jack added.
"Go to hell!"
Marissa turned to Jack. "I can take AJ home with me now?"
"Yes, you can. We'll wait here until you leave."
Marissa headed up the stairs and soon returned holding AJ's hand and with Kendall following. AJ walked over to his father and gave him a hug. "Bye, dad." He quickly returned to his mother who had grabbed one of his bags while Kendall grabbed another.
"Bye, AJ. I'll see you in a couple of days."
The women left and headed to the car while Jack spoke to JR. "I wouldn't count on that, at least not unsupervised if you do."
Marissa sat in the backseat next to AJ holding his hand, not wanting to let him go, and listened as he told her about his day at school. She sent a quick text to Bianca to let her know they had AJ and were on their way home.
When they pulled up to Marissa's house, Bianca was immediately outside with the girls and Greenlee. AJ hopped out of the car and ran to his mother's girlfriend to give her a hug. "Hi, Bianca! Are you ready for movie night? Mom said we could have pizza tonight."
"Hi, buddy. I sure am, and I think pizza's a great idea. Why don't the three of you go inside and pick out a couple of movies?" The children nodded and ran inside. Bianca walked over to Marissa and held her while Kendall and Greenlee took AJ's bags inside.
When they returned, Marissa turned to both women. "Thank you for being there today, and please tell Zach and Ryan I said thank you as well. I have no doubt they were behind the tip to the police about the jet. I don't know that I'll ever be able to repay you."
Greenlee hugged both of the younger women. "You're welcome. Anytime you need us, we'll be there."
Kendall looked at the couple. "I want the two of you to make sure that security system is on tonight and that you'll promise to call if you need anything."
Bianca hugged her sister. "We will, and thank you for going with her today, being there for her."
Kendall smiled. "You're welcome, and I'll be there for you both anytime." She gave Marissa a hug. "I mean that, Red, anytime. Take care of each other and try and enjoy the night with your kids."
"We will. Thank you. I owe you a lot, Kendall."
The couple went inside and set the security system. "Okay, Marissa and I are going to take AJ's bags up to his room and unpack them. We'll be back down in a few minutes and then we'll order pizza and start the first movie. Sound good?"
"Yeah!"
After unpacking AJ's extra clothes in silence, Bianca pulled Marissa into her bedroom, knowing her girlfriend needed a few extra minutes to collect herself before they rejoined their children. "Tell me what happened."
"He was going to take him, Bianca. That son of a bitch was going to take AJ and run. He had their passports ready. Jack said he had the jet fueled and ready to go to take them to Paris for God knows how long. I almost lost AJ. Thank God for the early dismissal today or they might've been gone." The tears she had been holding back for the last several hours began to flow as Bianca simply held her.
Marissa could feel Bianca's love for her in the brunette's loving embrace, and she allowed her girlfriend to comfort and soothe her. Sometime later, Marissa began to calm down. Bianca wiped her tears away and kissed her tenderly. "Thank you."
Bianca gave her a puzzled look. "For what?"
"For being you, for being here, for loving me."
"You don't have to thank me for that, Rissa. I love you, and I'm not going anywhere."
"I love you too. How's Miranda? I could tell she was scared earlier."
"She was a little, but she's fine now. What about AJ?"
"He's fine. He has no idea what JR was planning. We'll have to talk to him and let him know that he'll be staying here for a while. There's a hearing on Monday to review the emergency order. Will you be there?"
"Of course, I will. You don't even have to ask. Thank you for not going over there by yourself."
Marissa gazed in the chocolate eyes that she loved so much. She knew Bianca had been worried and hated that she was the reason for it. "I promised you that I wouldn't. I'll keep myself safe."
"Good because I plan on keeping you around for, oh, I don't know, say a lifetime."
"Funny, that's how long I plan on keeping you around for." Marissa smiled, giving Bianca a loving kiss.
Bianca smiled. "Are you ready to go downstairs?"
Marissa nodded. "Yeah, I am. I think a fun evening at home with the four people I love the most in the world is exactly what I need."
"I could use that too." Bianca added after giving Marissa a quick kiss before heading downstairs to their children.
/
It had been a few weeks since Marissa had been granted temporary full custody, and AJ had moved back in with her. Bianca and the girls were staying over more frequently, and the redhead had even bought a second bed for her guest room which was now unofficially the girls' bedroom. The five of them had quickly established a comfortable routine. Marissa knew JR wasn't done causing trouble and was constantly on guard as was Bianca. The couple, however, absolutely refused to let her ex dictate how they lived their lives and to have any say in their happiness.
Marissa was equally determined to make today special for Bianca, and their children were more than happy to help. The redhead quietly entered her bedroom and carefully closed the door behind her. She sat next to Bianca and watched as she slept. My God, she is so beautiful. Marissa wished she could let her sleep, but the kids were chomping at the bit to surprise her for her birthday. The redhead had managed to keep them busy for a while, getting them changed and working on their birthday cards for Bianca while she grabbed a quick shower, but they had been stalled long enough. Marissa had convinced them that it was best if she was able to wake Bianca up just before they launched their surprise. She knew this part would be tricky. The redhead sighed happily and smiled. She had discovered that a wide awake Bianca in bed was hard to dissuade. Usually, Marissa was more than happy to oblige her, but the children were on their way on up, however, and…
Bianca opened her eyes and smiled as she stretched. Seeing Marissa first thing was an absolutely wonderful way to start her day. "Good morning."
Marissa caressed her cheek. "Good morning. Happy birthday, beautiful."
"Thank you." A sly smile crossed her face. "Do I get a birthday kiss?"
The redhead recognized that look knowing what was on Bianca's mind, and she knew she probably shouldn't. She was, however, incapable of refusing her girlfriend anything. Marissa leaned in with a tender kiss that quickly deepened as Bianca wrapped her arms around the redhead pulling her closer.
Reluctantly, Marissa pulled away. "The kids will be here in a minute with a surprise for you."
Bianca sighed and pulled on her pajamas. "Will we continue this later?"
"Most definitely, I promise." Marissa heard a knock on the door and went to open it. Gabby came in first and immediately launched herself at her mother. AJ and Miranda followed slowly behind. AJ carried a breakfast tray, and Miranda carried two glasses of orange juice which she carefully placed on the nightstand near her mother. Marissa took the tray from AJ, and the two older children jumped on the bed. "Happy birthday!"
Bianca smiled giving each child a hug and kiss. "Thank you! Breakfast in bed is a wonderful surprise."
AJ, Miranda and Gabby handed her homemade cards, and Miranda then handed her a proclamation declaring it 'Bianca Christine Montgomery Day'.
"What exactly is Bianca Christine Montgomery Day?"
"It means today is your day, and you get to do anything you want today."
"Anything I want, huh?"
Miranda smiled and looked at Marissa who nodded. "There are certain restrictions though."
Bianca saw the exchange between her oldest daughter and Marissa. "I have restrictions on my day, huh? What kind of restrictions are we talking about?"
"No cooking, no cleaning or picking up after anybody, no doing dishes, no making beds, no work of any kind!" Miranda added with a wide smile.
"No work of any kind?"
"Nope! You're only allowed to have fun today!"
"Wow, that's my kind of present! I love it! Are those chocolate chip pancakes?"
Gabby nodded. "Uh huh!"
"My favorite kind! Do you guys want to share them with me?"
AJ shook his head. "We already ate. Mom fixed us some when we got up. So, whatcha want to do today, Bianca?"
"Hmmm. I'm not sure yet. I could use some help coming up with ideas. Do you think the three of you could help me out?"
The children nodded enthusiastically.
"Why don't you go change and then work on that list downstairs while Bianca finishes her breakfast? We'll be down when she's done."
"Okay! The children gave Bianca another hug and kiss and darted out of the room while Marissa handed Bianca the tray.
"There are two forks here. Want to share?"
"I thought you'd never ask. I'm starving. The kids were so excited. They had me up early. They must have added the extra fork after I came up here." She joined the brunette on the bed and took the offered fork.
"My favorite breakfast, in bed, and a day where I get to do anything I want. You are spoiling me."
"If anyone deserves to be spoiled, it's you. Today is all about you. I've talked to Kendall and your mom. They're going to call later, but they'll see you tomorrow at lunch."
"Perfect! I love them dearly, but I'd liked to spend the day with my beautiful girlfriend and our incredible children, if that's okay with you."
Marissa grinned. "Whatever you want. It's your day, and that's more than okay with me. Don't get me wrong. I love Kendall, and I'm starting to actually like your mom quite a bit. They've been nothing but great to me, but sometimes they can be a little…"
"A little much? Overwhelming? Over the top? Trust me, I understand."
"Speaking of over the top, you won't believe some of the suggestions they had for my present for you."
Bianca laughed. "I can only imagine. You know that you didn't have to get me anything. You've had so much on your mind lately."
"I'm always thinking about you, you know, no matter what else is going on around me. It seems I just can't help it. I know I didn't have to get you anything, but I wanted to. If you don't want it though…" Marissa could see the excitement in Bianca's eyes. She loved surprises.
"It would be rude of me not to accept it since you went to all the trouble of getting me something."
"And you are anything but rude." The redhead smiled as she reached into her nightstand and pulled out two envelopes. She handed her girlfriend the first one which was a birthday card.
Bianca's eyes glistened as she read the heartfelt words written in the card. She then opened the second envelope. Inside was a 'certificate' good for a weekend for the two of them in New York. Among other things, the weekend included two nights at Bianca's favorite hotel, dinner at her favorite restaurant and tickets to the play of her choice. "Marissa, this is too much."
"No, it isn't. You deserve it and so much more. We'll go when things calm down around here. Kendall has promised to watch the kids, and your mom will use her pull for the reservations whenever we decide to go. Do you think you can handle a weekend alone with me?"
"Let me think about that." Bianca paused for just a beat before giving her a brilliant smile. "Oh yeah, I can more than handle it." She leaned in for a kiss that was all too brief as they could hear the children calling for them. "I guess they finished their list."
They both sighed. "I'll go check on them while you grab a shower."
Bianca came downstairs a little later and headed to the kitchen where Marissa was cleaning up. "Is that double chocolate cake from Krystal's?"
Marissa chuckled. "Of course it is. Since I know it's your favorite, I thought it was a pretty safe bet you'd want one for your birthday."
"You know me so well, and it's official, you are definitely spoiling me! Want to see the list of activities for today?"
As Marissa read over the list, she burst out laughing. "I see the kids influence all over this. It's more about them than you, but I knew that would happen."
Bianca sighed happily. "I really don't care what we do as long we're all together. Are you ready to get this party started? The kids are waiting."
Marissa gave her a quick kiss. "Let's go."
After a day spent playing countless games on Wii along with several board games and watching a handful of movies, the kids were exhausted and went to bed early. Marissa laughed as she closed the door to her bedroom. "I think that last round of Just Dance finally did them in."
"I think you're right."
"Did you have a good day?"
"I really did. Thank you. I think it was one of the best birthdays I've had."
"I know it ended up being more about what the kids wanted to do than what you wanted."
"Well, the day isn't over yet, and I still have this one wish that I really want." The brunette wrapped her arms around her girlfriend. Bianca found that spot behind Marissa's ear that always made her knees nearly buckle. The redhead knew she was toast, not that she intended to put up any kind of resistance. When Bianca gives me that smile and has that look in her eyes, I just can't refuse her anything. Besides, it is her birthday.
Marissa sighed happily and whispered, "Your wish is my command," as she leaned in and captured Bianca's lips.
/
One month later, Marissa was notified that JR was challenging the temporary custody agreement. He not only wanted the temporary order lifted, but he now wanted full custody. Both she and Bianca had been expecting this, and they were as prepared as they could be. Caleb had lined up an impressive slate of character witnesses along with what had become a mountain of evidence showing Marissa as a loving, involved and overall excellent mother. There was an equally impressive mountain of evidence against JR detailing not only his recent misdeeds but a long list of those from the past. This would only be used if absolutely necessary. Marissa wanted to spare AJ as much pain as possible and knew that he loved his father. Despite what JR believed, she did not want to prevent him from being in AJ's life.
The visit by the court appointed caseworker, Ms. Parnell, had gone well. Bianca and the girls had been over the night she paid her surprise visit. She observed as they helped the children with their homework and fixed dinner together. Ms. Parnell first spoke privately with AJ. He was nervous, but Marissa assured him that everything would be okay and told him to be honest. He told the caseworker that he loved both of his parents very much. He missed his dad, but sometimes, he scared him when he got mad. He had wanted his parents to get back together a while ago, but he didn't want that anymore. His mom was much happier now with Bianca, and that made AJ happy too. He loved Bianca and loved having Miranda and Gabby around so much. He thought of them as his sisters. He loved living with Marissa because sometimes the mansion could be big and lonely. He never felt that way when he was with his mom.
Next, Ms. Parnell interviewed Marissa. The redhead was open and honest and related her own experience being adopted. She couldn't have loved the Taskers any more than if they had been her biological parents. She admitted that while things were tense with JR at the moment that she did want AJ to have a relationship with his father knowing that they both loved each other and the importance of having his father in his life. Her first priority, however, was making sure AJ was safe, happy and well adjusted. Marissa would never put her son in a situation that would be harmful to him. Marissa discussed her relationship with Bianca. The two had started out simply enough as friends, then best friends before turning romantic. Looking back, it had been a natural progression to her given their personalities, interests, everything they had been through together. Their relationship was built on a solid foundation. They were in love and committed to each other and each other's children. Bianca was an amazing mother and loved AJ and would never harm him.
The caseworker then interviewed Bianca since JR was claiming her relationship with Marissa was harmful to AJ. Bianca was as equally honest as Marissa. She had known AJ his entire life and loved him very much. She only wanted what was best for him and would never put either him or her own children in any situation that would be considered detrimental to them. Marissa was a wonderful mother and would do whatever she could to ensure her son's happiness. They hoped he could have a relationship with his father, and she would never stand in the way of that. Her main concern was that AJ be safe and remain the happy and thoughtful boy that he was. As for Marissa, she was in love with her and committed to her and their children.
After the caseworker left, they quietly discussed how the visit went. They both agreed that it had gone well and could only hope she gave Marissa a positive review.
The custody hearing took place one week later. Marissa was nervous, but Bianca was right there giving her all of the love and support she could. The brunette was not the only one providing support to Marissa. Next to her in the front row were Kendall, Zach, Greenlee, Ryan and Scott along with Krystal and Tad. Erica was due any minute, flying back into town from her book tour for the hearing. Marissa was flanked by Caleb and Jack at the defense table.
JR glared at Tad seeing him sitting on Marissa's side of the courtroom. Tad had tried to convince him that the suit was a bad idea and not in AJ's best interest. AJ loved Marissa, and she was a good mother. As for Marissa and Bianca's relationship, JR needed to accept it because there was nothing wrong with it, and it was in no way harmful to AJ. No one was out to get him. He knew better than that. He knew both women, and they weren't like that. He had thrown Tad out of the mansion and refused to have anything to do with him. When JR finally looked at Marissa, a smug look crossed his face. It was a looked that scared her.
"Jack, Caleb, he's up to something."
"Marissa, I don't want you to worry. We've got it covered." Caleb assured her.
JR's lawyer addressed him. "I would like to have some character witnesses, Mr. Chandler. It would give us a stronger case. Your visit with the caseworker could have gone a lot better."
"My visit went just fine. Actually, both of my visits with her went just fine. It doesn't matter how many people they throw up there to talk about how wonderful she and her girlfriend are. We've got nothing to worry about. There's no way I'm going to lose. My son will be home with me soon, and they'll be out of his life for good."
"What do you mean 'both of your visits'? You only had one visit with her."
"I arranged another meeting with her, one that was more private and more in my favor. I did the same with the judge."
"Did you bribe them? I can't be any part of that."
"I wouldn't say bribe. I would say that I presented a strong case where they would benefit from the outcome of this hearing being in my favor. There's no way I can lose." JR smirked.
The hearing was called to order, and the first witness was the caseworker. Ms. Parnell stated that she was duly impressed by Marissa and her commitment to and bond with AJ. She had created a loving home for him, and he was happy and well-adjusted living with her. The caseworker did not see the relationship between Marissa and Bianca as harmful in any way to him. She had been impressed not only by their honesty but by their obvious commitment not only to each other but to each other's children.
Anger began to replace the smug look on JR's face. He was about to lose it, and everyone in the courtroom knew it. His lawyer asked for a recess. Instead of granting that request, the judge ordered the parties to his chambers.
/
Marissa smiled coming back to the present as a pair of soft, warm arms enveloped her from behind, and she felt the press of lips that intoxicated her on her cheek. As she opened her eyes, Bianca made her way around the bench to sit beside her and took her hand. Marissa gazed in her girlfriend's beautiful eyes, and suddenly, all of the tension she had felt was gone.
Bianca gave Marissa a lingering kiss before speaking. "You've been gone a while. You had me a little worried."
"I didn't realize that I'd been gone that long. I'm sorry. I just needed a few minutes."
"Are you okay?"
"I am."
"Want to tell me what you've been thinking about?"
"I was thinking about everything that's happened since the beginning of the year, since JR found out about us."
"No wonder you were gone so long. We haven't had much of a chance to talk privately since the hearing ended. What exactly happened in the judge's chambers?"
"When we walked in, I spotted Jesse standing in the corner which surprised me. I had no idea why he was there, but I knew something was going on. Judge Taylor had us all sit down and proceeded to play two videos for everyone. The first was of JR bribing Ms. Parnell, and the second was him bribing Judge Taylor. He explained that after JR pretty much tanked the caseworker's first visit that he called her and proposed a tradeoff. If she gave him a glowing review and trashed me, he would make it more than worth her while financially. She immediately went to the judge after receiving his offer. While they were waiting for the D.A. to arrive, JR called the judge and presented him with a similar offer. It seems he was hedging his bets."
"Well, the Chandlers have never met a judge they didn't think they couldn't buy."
"Don't I know it. After they told the D.A. about the bribes, he called Jesse and had him set up the sting, and he got the whole thing on tape. When Judge Taylor finished, I thought JR was going to explode. The bailiff had to restrain him when he went after the judge. Don't worry, Jack and Caleb stayed in between us the entire time. He never got within five feet of me."
Bianca breathed a sigh of relief. "Remind me to thank them."
"You and me both. After things calmed down and order was restored again, the judge explained that Ms. Parnell had already filed her report, which happened to be in my favor, prior to any of this happening, and he wanted the hearing to start with her. He was going to let her continue until he saw JR's reaction and then thought better of it. He read the rest of her report while we were back there. She said that she knew that JR loved his son, but she found that his anger was an issue and was causing AJ to be scared of hm. She also found that his current attitude towards us and our relationship and his unwillingness to hide it was detrimental to AJ. In her opinion, it was in the best interest of AJ to remain in my custody."
"Wow. You had me worried when you first came back into the courtroom. You, Caleb and Uncle Jack were keeping good poker faces, and I had no clue why JR wasn't there."
"Maybe they had the poker faces, but I was still in shock from what had just happened and from what Caleb told me on our way back in. They knew about the bribery attempts. The private investigator we hired caught them as well. If the judge and Ms. Parnell had not come forward, been honest and gave JR custody, they were ready to file a stay of the order immediately and had the paperwork for the appeal already in the works. As for JR, Jesse already had him cuffed and on the way to jail." Marissa shook her head and sighed. "I can't believe it's over."
"Believe it. You have full custody of AJ now. I promised you everything would be okay."
Marissa smiled. "Yes, you did, and you always keep your promises." She kissed Bianca tenderly.
"JR will be out of our hair for quite some time."
"Yes, he will. His legal problems are going to keep him busy for a long time. I don't know what he was thinking by trying to bribe not only the caseworker but the judge as well."
"It's something that's worked in the past. I guess he thought it would work again. I'm glad it didn't."
"So am I. I can't even begin to explain how relieved I am that AJ will be with me, but part of me is so sad for AJ. He loves his dad."
Bianca nodded. "Yes, he does, and hopefully one day, JR can be part of his life, once he gets his act together, and we know it's safe for AJ for that to happen. In the meantime, I know you, and I know that you'll find the right words somehow to explain everything to him."
Marissa cocked her head and smiled. "How do you do that?"
A puzzled look crossed Bianca's face. "Do what?"
"Know exactly what to say to make me feel better and give me the extra shot of confidence I need when I need it the most."
"You do exactly the same thing for me." Bianca kissed her tenderly.
Marissa sighed contentedly and rested her head on Bianca's shoulder, and the two sat in silence, simply enjoying being with each other.
Bianca's phone rang some time later. She smiled when she saw it was her sister and put her on speaker phone. "Hi, Kendall. Of course, I found her. Did you ever really doubt that I would?"
"Well, no, I knew you would. Are the two of you planning on coming back to Krystal's anytime soon?"
Marissa smiled. "Hi, Kendall. We're on our way and will be there in a few minutes. We can only stay for a little bit though."
"Yeah, I know. Same here since the kids will be out of school soon, but I think it will be good for the two of you to unwind a little before picking them up."
Bianca looked at Marissa. "She's right, you know. It will be good for us."
"I know. Plus, we have a lot of people there to thank. We'll see you in a few minutes, Kendall."
"Good. I'll let everyone know you're on the way. See you soon."
Marissa stood and held her hand out for her girlfriend. "Let's go see our family and friends. I don't know how I'm ever going to thank them enough."
Bianca took Marissa's hand and smiled as she gave her a quick kiss. "We'll think of something, together."