A/N: Okay, I'm writing away when I noticed how long this chapter was getting. So, I started thinking of where I am in the chapter and where I want to go with it. That lead to the question of whether to post what I had or to keep writing. I decided to post what I had and have another update later this week. Monday is a holiday here in the States so that should allow me to get some writing done to accomplish that goal. I hope you're all okay with that.

Thanks again for the reviews. They are greatly appreciated. Hope you enjoy this update!

/

It had been three days since Bianca and Marissa's meeting at the school with the principal had taken place. It had gone well. The other parents joined them in their meeting and related what their children had told them about what Amber had been saying to them. Ms. Evans had listened and had a school secretary take minutes documenting each incident. After the parents had finished, the children were called in and related to the principal what had happened. When all their statements were taken, Ms. Evans once again promised to have a finding on the bullying claims as soon as possible. They all left before Amber and her parents were called in to avoid any confrontations.

Now, it was just a matter of waiting. On Tuesday, Miranda and AJ had reported a problem to their mothers. It had occurred that day during recess. Amber had attempted to corner Miranda on the playground. AJ had been just a half step behind her as soon as he saw the girl approaching his sister. A teacher saw what was happening and intervened before anything could happen. Amber was taken to the see the principal right away. Ms. Evans called Bianca immediately to report the incident and to assure her that Miranda was safe, as was AJ.

It was an understatement to say that Bianca wasn't happy about the close call. She was, however, glad to hear that the monitoring was indeed working. After speaking briefly with Miranda and AJ to make sure they were okay, she called Marissa to let her know what happened. Her girlfriend matched Bianca emotion for emotion. They agreed that they hoped this latest incident would prove without a shadow of a doubt to the principal that Amber was indeed guilty of bullying and would be punished accordingly. They also decided to have a brief talk with their oldest children that evening to be sure they were okay.

Once Bianca got home from work, she and Marissa sat AJ and Miranda down to discuss what happened earlier, to get the unvarnished version of what had occurred during recess.

"Why didn't you go to a teacher, AJ?"

"I was going to, mom, but I didn't think I could get to Mrs. Johnson before Amber got to Miranda. She looked real mad, and she was heading right for Miranda. I just couldn't take a chance that she might hurt my sister again. There was no way I was gonna let that happen!"

The women smiled at AJ's fierce protection of Miranda and couldn't find any fault his actions.

"I understand. Are you okay, Miranda?"

"Uh huh, I'm okay, Rissa, really. I was just kinda surprised to see her coming over to me. She had to know she'd get in trouble. When I saw her though, there was no way I was gonna let her try and scare me. Besides, I saw AJ right behind her. Like you guys and Aunt Kendall said, I knew he had my back. And Mrs. Johnson was able to stop Amber before she got close. So, I knew everything would be okay."

Both women studied their children for a minute. They had been gauging their reactions to what had happened and making sure the kids were truly okay before continuing.

Bianca smiled and shook her head in amazement at their kids. "You are probably the bravest kids I've ever known. We still want you to first go to a teacher if she tries something, but if you can't, we want you to protect yourselves."

"Bianca's right. The main thing is to make sure you stay safe. Like my dad used to tell me, 'Don't start any fights and walk away if you can, but if you find yourself in one, be sure to finish it.' It's something I always keep in mind."

AJ and Miranda smiled and nodded, feeling better and more confident after talking with their mothers.

"Okay, mom. I can do that."

"Me too, Rissa."

"Good. Go finish up your homework. Dinner will be ready in a little while." Bianca smiled as AJ and Miranda hopped off the sofa and went into the other room. The brunette slid next to Marissa. "So, what do you think?"

"I think you're right. We have two of the bravest kids ever. They are amazing, and I'm so proud of them and how they are there for each other. I believe them. I'm not sensing that they're hiding anything like before, like they're trying to protect us again."

Bianca sighed in relief to have her feelings confirmed. "Good. That's what I was thinking too. I'm not getting that feeling either like I was before."

The couple had been sitting quietly, enjoying each other's company for several minutes. Bianca had been absently stroking Marissa's hair while lost in thought when the redhead's contented sigh brought her back to the present.

Marissa glanced over next to her and saw Bianca grinning at her. "What?"

"Oh, nothing."

"Something's up, Montgomery. What do you find so amusing?"

"I can see why you're such a good lawyer, why you're so tough when fighting for your clients. Some people tend to underestimate you and that is a big mistake. They don't think you're strong enough to take them on, that you'll back down and won't stand up to them. You're never really backing down from them though. You're just regrouping and taking your dad's advice. Now, there are others who may think they can goad you into a fight and into losing your temper, but they're wrong as well. I think you, more often than not, know exactly what you're doing. Sometimes, you may lose your temper a little, but the vast majority of the time, you use that misconception to your advantage. Neither sees the whole picture of who you are."

"Thank you. I think you are the only person who has ever noticed that. They just see the red hair and think hair-trigger temper. I know this is probably going to go right to your head, but when whatshername was around, that was one time that I really did lose my temper. I did not like her being around you one single bit."

Bianca grinned mischievously as she moved closer to Marissa. She had to admit that she did love knowing that even though she had nothing to worry about, just knowing Marissa was slightly jealous and so protective of her, their relationship and their family meant everything to Bianca and was something she had never really experienced before. "Ah, they just haven't studied you intimately like I have. Whenever I look at you, I see so many different things that I can't even begin to tell you everything. What they see as a hair-trigger temper, I see as passion, as fire, and I do love my fiery redhead."

A smile tugged at Marissa's lips when she saw the way her girlfriend's eyes were darkening and the grin on her face. "You keep looking at me like that, and I won't be responsible for my actions."

Bianca gave her a lingering kiss. "I'll be more than happy to take responsibility for them."

Marissa grinned. "You do realize the kids will complain to no end when they see us making out on the sofa."

"Let 'em complain! It is completely worth it!"

Marissa closed what little distance remained between them. "I couldn't agree more!"

/

Wednesday had passed without incident. By Thursday morning, the couple was getting anxious to hear something from the school. As they finished getting themselves ready for work and the kids ready for school, they discussed what was and was not happening at the moment.

"Why hasn't she called us back yet, Marissa? Shouldn't someone have let us know something by now?"

"I know what you mean. You would think so especially after Amber's stunt the other day. At this point, I want to know something, anything. I don't like this hanging over the kids' heads. I want this part settled so we can figure out if we have to go with plan B."

"Yeah, you're right. The kids need to know something is happening. That something is being done about this. I don't want them constantly looking over their shoulders for her. It's not good for them. What do you think about us calling Ms. Evans today?"

"I think we should. It won't hurt to check in with her. You have meetings all day, right?"

"Yeah, I'm booked solid, and you've got court."

"I do, but I can call her during our morning recess. The judge hearing the case always takes a break at 10:30 without fail. As soon as I hear something, I'll either call or text you."

"That sounds good, and if you don't hear something from her, we can ask her tonight at the PTA meeting. Ms. Evans is always at those."

"You know who else will be there tonight, don't you?"

Bianca nodded, well aware that Tammy would be there. "Yep, you know she'll be spoiling for a fight."

Marissa grinned, and Bianca detected a certain gleam in her girlfriend's eyes. "I know she will."

"Marissa …"

"Don't worry. Like I told the kids, I won't start anything, but I'll sure as hell finish it if she does! Is Susan still lined up to watch the kids tonight?"

"Yes, she'll be here by 5:30. Will you be out of court by then?"

"I'm not sure. It might be a safer bet to meet you at the school."

"Alright. Maybe, I'll catch a ride with Kendall. She mentioned something about going. I'll be sure to save you a seat." Bianca paused. "Rissa, what if none of this works? What if …"

Marissa walked over to Bianca and took her hands in her own. "It will."

"What if it doesn't?"

"On the outside chance that it doesn't, but I honestly think it will, we can move the kids to Pine Valley Academy. I'd rather not. I love their school, and it's one of the top ones in the state. Plus, they really love it. All of their friends are there."

"I know. It's a great school, and they are comfortable there. I love the staff, and the school itself has such a rich history. It's named after the founder of Pine Valley, and they really work to instill her values in the students. I'd hate to move them because they would lose all of that. It would also feel like we're running away, but I'll do whatever it takes to keep our kids safe and happy."

"You and me both."

"If it means moving them, then we will."

Marissa checked the time. "We need to get moving." She called to the kids. "Okay, gang, time to get this show on the road. Let's head out."

Bianca walked with them to Marissa's car. She got Gabby into her booster seat and gave her a kiss and hug. "You have day at pre-school, baby. I'll see you later. I love you."

"I will, mommy. See you later. Love you too."

While Marissa loaded their backpacks in the back, Bianca gave AJ and Miranda each a hug and kiss as well. "I love you both. Be good and watch out for each other."

"We will, mom. Love you."

"Don't worry, Bianca. We've got each other's backs. Love you."

The older children loaded themselves into the car and fastened their seatbelts.

Bianca smiled and held Marissa's door open for her. "Good luck in court. You don't need it though. You're just that good."

Marissa smiled brightly. "Thank you. Good luck with your meetings. I know you hate budget meetings, but you are the only one they will all listen to. You're the only one to make them see reason. Let's face it. You are Bianca Montgomery after all. While you are very formidable to them, they also admire and respect you."

Bianca laughed. "Yes, I am, and I need Marissa Tasker right there with me, next to me always. I'll need you to call me at least once or twice during this day to get me through the mind-numbingness of these meetings."

"I think I can handle that. I'll let you know what I find out about that other topic. As for me being there next to you, I will be. Remember, forevermore." Marissa leaned in for a tender kiss. "I love you."

Bianca touched her locket. "I remember. I love you too." She shut the door after Marissa was buckled in. Bianca sighed happily as she watched the car drive down the street before heading out herself.

/

Grace Benson had been a school secretary for too many years to count and thought she had seen and heard everything. That notion was proven wrong this past Monday. When she arrived at the school that day, she found her boss already there. Ms. Evans called her into her office and told her that there were four separate claims of bullying against Amber Baldwin. The first order of business was to move the girl to another classroom and speak with the teachers. The principal would be meeting with the students filing the claims and their parents that morning, and she wanted Mrs. Benson present to take minutes. Later that day, they would be meeting with Amber and her parents. Her boss then told Grace that the students filing the claims were Miranda Montgomery, AJ Chandler, Jessica Mendes and Bobby Douglas. The secretary knew the four children as well behaved and none were known for causing any trouble. She had to admit that Miranda and AJ were two of her favorites. They were cheerful and thoughtful children.

In all of her years at the school, the secretary had gotten to know many parents in addition to the students. Like their children, Ms. Tasker and Ms. Montgomery were two of her favorites, and they were such a lovely young couple. They always asked how she was doing, always had a kind word for her no matter what was going on, and they were like that with all of the staff there. They were so thoughtful and were raising children just as kind as they were. It had disturbed her to no end when she heard what was happening to AJ and Miranda along with Bobby and Jessica.

Amber was another story. The girl was spoiled and wanted what she wanted when she wanted it. She had made several trips to the office for being disruptive in class. Amber gave every indication that she was turning out just like her mother. That woman never had anything nice to say to anyone. Mrs. Baldwin always expected her to drop everything she was doing to take care of her, and it didn't matter if someone else was there before her. In her mind, it was the teachers that were the problem and not her daughter. She felt they were out to get Amber even though she could never say why.

At 9:00, the first group of parents arrived. After getting settled into their seats in the principal's office, Ms. Evans spoke with the parents and started out by reviewing the school's policy. This was standard procedure even though Mrs. Mendes had informed her that Ms. Tasker had researched everything and gone over it with the other parents the day before. This hadn't really surprised the secretary since she had heard the redhead was a very sharp lawyer. If she hadn't done it, Mrs. Benson was sure Ms. Montgomery would have. She knew of the young woman's work with the Miranda Center and knew she was very thorough. The parents' major concerns were insuring the safety of their children and getting the bullying stopped, immediately.

After speaking with the parents and answering their questions, Miranda, AJ, Jessica and Bobby were called into the office separately with each having their parents with them. It nearly broke Mrs. Benson's heart to hear them relate what Amber had said, but the secretary was impressed by each child and the courage they showed in taking a stand against the girl. At first, Bobby couldn't bring himself to say what she had called his dads. It was only after his parents had assured him it was okay to tell Ms. Evans in this case did he repeat the ugly word. Jessica was next. Like Bobby, she didn't want to repeat what Amber had called her friend's dads but did after her parents told her she needed to tell the principal everything that had happened. She then told her what her former friend had said about her and her parents.

AJ followed Jessica with his moms by his side. He repeated what Amber had said to Miranda and him about Marissa and her trip and what would happened when she got home. The other girl stepped up her verbal attacks when they told her she was wrong and didn't know what she was talking about. Soon after that, Miranda became her favorite target for some reason. He didn't know what else she was saying to his sister, but he knew from her reaction that it was bad and had something to do with him. When he left, Miranda came in and told her side of things. It matched what AJ had said regarding Marissa, and that she, Bianca and Gabby would have to move out of their home. She went on to tell the principal what Amber had been saying about AJ to her. Miranda and AJ were both also able to verify Bobby's and Jessica's stories. They had overheard what she had said to their friends.

Grace printed the meeting minutes for the principal after everyone had left before taking a brief break. She needed it to calm herself down.

Amber and her parents came to the office later that day, and the girl's mother was on the attack from the minute the office door was closed. Grace couldn't believe the things Mrs. Baldwin said, the hate that was spewing from her. It was no wonder that her daughter was saying the things she was. The principal had Amber leave the office until she was able to calm Mrs. Baldwin down. The father said nothing while his wife ranted. Grace couldn't tell if he agreed with his wife or was just glad to have her venom directed at someone else. It pained the secretary to write down what the woman was saying, but she knew it was important to get everything down and to do an accurate job. When Amber came back into the office, she denied everything and accused the other children of lying and making up stories to get attention. When the girl was done, Ms. Evans instructed her to stay away from the other students for the sake of all concerned especially herself. The girl and her parents agreed and left but not before her mother took another shot at Bianca and Marissa. Like her daughter with Miranda, the women seemed to be her favorite target.

The promise to stay away from the others proved short lived when the girl made a beeline for Miranda the first chance she could the next day at recess. Amber was sent home, and when her mother came to pick her up, Mrs. Baldwin again blamed everyone else particularly the teacher who intervened for overreacting. Grace documented the incident, and it was added to the file Ms. Evans was assembling. The principal called Ms. Montgomery to let her know what had happened and had Miranda and AJ speak with her. Both children assured her that they were okay and wanted to remain at school. Amber returned to school on Wednesday, and the day passed without incident. As of Thursday morning, things seemed to be remaining quiet much to the relief of the secretary.

/

It was 10:30, and Judge Steger called for a brief recess right on schedule. While her client took a quick trip to the ladies' room, Marissa called the school.

"Agnes Nixon Elementary. This is Grace Benson. How may I help you?"

"Good morning, Mrs. Benson. It's Marissa Tasker. How are you today? Are your grandchildren running you ragged yet?"

The older woman smiled. "Good morning, Ms. Tasker. I'm doing very well, and they are giving me and my husband a run for our money. They are here through the weekend. Until then, I am spoiling them rotten. How are you?"

Marissa laughed. "I'm fine. I have no doubt that you are, but I believe that's a grandparent's job and right, isn't it?"

"Yes, it is, and I'm loving every minute of it. My son and daughter-in-law might not be though, but that's just too bad. What can I do for you today?"

"Is Principal Evans in? I'd like to speak with her if possible."

Grace had a feeling that was why she was calling. She and Ms. Montgomery wanted an update. She couldn't blame them. They had met with the principal three days ago, and the older woman knew they had to be getting anxious to hear something. Grace had sat in on all of the meetings and taken minutes. After hearing all sides, she had formed her own opinion on what had happened and what should be done, but it wasn't up to her.

The principal was currently out of the office meeting with the superintendent on this very topic. The older woman had tried to get a read on what her boss was thinking, what her final decision was, but she couldn't. Ms. Evans wasn't giving anything away, and it had left the secretary believing her boss would be an excellent poker player. She had left strict instructions on what the secretary was to say if any of the parents called.

"I'm sorry, Ms. Tasker, but Ms. Evans is in a meeting and unavailable. I was going to be calling you and the other parents today. She wanted me to see if either you or Ms. Montgomery were planning on attending tonight's PTA meeting."

"Yes, both Bianca and I will be there."

"Very good. Ms. Evans would like to speak with you beforehand if possible. She may be late, however, so she was hoping you would be able to stay after the meeting to talk if that happens."

"Yes, that's fine. We can stay. It sounds like she's made a decision."

"I'm sorry, Ms. Tasker. I can't say anything. I'm not permitted to."

"Oh, I know, Mrs. Benson. I understand your position, and I'm sorry. I wouldn't ask you to violate any policy. I was just thinking out loud."

The secretary smiled. She really didn't think the younger woman was pressing her for an answer. She never struck her as the type to put someone else in a position that would jeopardize them. "I know you weren't. I honestly don't know anything. Ms. Evans has kept her thinking to herself on this matter. I'm sorry. I wish I could tell you something more, but I've just been asked to see if you were available to talk tonight."

"I understand. There's no need to apologize. Please let Ms. Evans know that Bianca and I will be there as long as necessary. Thank you, Mrs. Benson. Have a good day and enjoy those grandchildren."

"I will, and you have a good day too, Ms. Tasker."

Marissa disconnected the call and checked the time. She only had a few minutes before court started back up so she opted to send Bianca a text.

"Not able to speak with principal. She was in a meeting. Wants to meet with us tonight."

Bianca replied almost immediately. "Think she made up her mind?"

"Yeah, I do. Fingers crossed it goes our way."

"Mine too. Call me when you break for lunch. Love you."

"Will do. Love you too."

/

"So, why am I going to this PTA meeting again? I've been in them all day long, and I'm really not in the mood for another one." Greenlee asked as she glanced over at her friend from the passenger seat.

Kendall chuckled and shook her head. "We already went over this."

"Humor me and go over it again."

"Fine, I'll go over it one more time."

/