A/N: Thank you, as always, for the great reviews! I've said it before, and I'll say it again. I love reading them and am inspired by them. Please keep them coming! I hope I didn't keep you waiting too long for this update. It's a little longer than I planned, but I'll explain that at the end of this update. I'm picking up where the last chapter left off. Hope you enjoy it!

/

Words could not describe the relief that Bianca felt as she watched and listened to Marissa closely. Dr. Torres had spoken with her when she returned to the hospital and informed her that the swelling in Marissa's brain had dissipated, and it was now back to its normal level. She still had to deal with some symptoms from the concussion and would need to take it easy for a few days, but the doctor expected a full recovery for her. She would continue to monitor Marissa the next two days before discharging her.

"Dr. Lawson stopped by to look at my knee while you were gone, and she had me try out the crutches. She expects the swelling to be down enough to operate in about a week. She'll be back later today to talk to you and have me walk around again."

"It's not too soon?"

"No, she wants me out of bed and walking around some. I'll have to use the crutches and brace, but I can at least be mobile." Marissa saw the questioning look in Bianca's eyes and smiled. "Don't worry. When she comes back, she'll go over everything with you."

Bianca smiled. "Okay, I'll try and relax. You were definitely the topic of conversation at Krystal's when we stopped there. Everyone we ran into sends you their best. Dr. Torres has a limit on the number of visitors so they'll stop by the house after I get to take you home."

"I can't wait to get home." Marissa spotted the overnight bag in the corner of the room. "And what's that, B?"

"It's a change of clothes for me. I told you I'm staying tonight. You told me earlier you weren't going to argue with me about it. Everything's arranged. Kendall and Zach are going to watch the kids again, and you should know that the kids took a vote and want me to stay here with you so you're not alone."

Marissa took a shaky breath. "We really do have the best kids, don't we?"

Bianca smiled. "Yeah, we do. I also brought you a few things from home." The brunette paused. She didn't want to bring up the next subject, but the couple had promised each other that they wouldn't keep anything from the other one. She wasn't about to start now. "We, uh, also ran into Jesse while we were at Krystal's. He's going to stop by in a little while, get your statement and give us an update on the case."

"That means that Brennan is still out there on the loose." Marissa said grimly.

"Yeah, that's what I think too, but he didn't say anything other than that he'd be by later."

"Okay, we'll see what he says when he gets here. I know I don't have to ask whether or not you've arranged security for the kids."

"Yes, I've spoken with Jesse, and police have an undercover officer watching Kendall and Zach's place right now. When we get home, they'll switch over to our place. The same goes for the security firm we hired. They are working with the police. Before you ask, yes, someone was with Kendall and me."

Marissa nodded. "Good. I don't want you out there on your own and unprotected. Until we talk with Jesse then, there's nothing else we can do for now. Tell me about the kids. Are they really okay?"

"Yes, they are."

/

"Are you ready for this, Binx?"

"Yeah, I'm as ready as I'm going to be, Kendall. The kids need to know something. I'm not going to tell them about Brennan though. They don't need to know about him. Let's go."

Kendall nodded and opened her front door.

"Mom!" Miranda sprinted across the room seeing her mother and hugged her.

"Hi, Sweetie." AJ and Gabby soon joined their sister in greeting Bianca.

AJ looked around. "Where's Mom? Is she at home?"

"Let's sit down and talk." Bianca sat on the sofa with Gabby on her lap with AJ and Miranda on either side of her.

"Where's Rissa, Mom?"

"Marissa was in a car accident last night. Someone hit her car, and she was hurt so she was taken to the hospital. I want you to know that she's going to okay though. I was with her earlier, and she was talking and laughing and missing you guys."

"She's really gonna be okay, Bianca?"

"Yeah, Buddy, she's going to be okay."

"What's wrong with her, Mommy?"

"Well, Baby, she hit her head, and the doctors want to keep an eye on her. She also hurt her knee."

"Is she coming home, Mom?"

"Well, the doctors want her to stay in the hospital a couple of days just to keep an eye on her like they did last year when I had to have my appendix removed. Do you remember that?"

The kids nodded.

"It's like that. When Marissa comes home, she's going to need a lot of rest. She's also going to have to take it easy. I'm going to need you guys to help me take care of her. Do you think you're up for that?"

"We'll take real good care of her, Mommy." Gabby nodded solemnly. AJ and Miranda quickly agreed as well.

"Good. Now, there's something else. Marissa will need to go back to the hospital to have them fix her knee, but she won't have to stay there after they've done that. The doctors say she'll be alright as long as she does what they tell her to do."

"We'll make sure she does what they say, Bianca."

"Yes, we will, AJ. I knew I could count on you guys to help me with that."

"Can we see her, Mom?"

"I don't know, Mimo. Hospitals have a lot of rules about letting children under 12 visit patients. I know you were able to see me when I was there, but it's little different because of Marissa's injuries. When I go back to the hospital, I'm going to ask her doctor if she can maybe bend that rule for us. If she can't, I have another idea. Do you remember what we do when one of us has to go on a trip for work?"

Miranda nodded. "We use Skype. That way we get to see each other."

"Exactly. So if the hospital won't let you visit Marissa in person, you can visit her over the computer."

"Bianca, would it be alright if we made Mom a get well card?"

"I think that's a great idea. She'll love it."

Bianca noticed the thoughtful look on her oldest daughter's face. "Miranda, is something on your mind?"

"I was just thinking. When you were in the hospital, Rissa stayed with you so you weren't alone, and that was when you were just friends, before you fell in love, right?"

"That's right. She did."

"I think you should stay with her, at least for one more night. I think it'll make you both feel better."

AJ nodded. "Miranda's right. You should. That way we know that's she's being taken care of. If it's okay, we could stay here with Aunt Kendall and Uncle Zach so you wouldn't have to worry about us."

"Could we stay, Aunt Kendall?"

"Miranda, of course you can stay. You don't even have to ask. I think you the three of you are just about the most thoughtful kids ever, and I agree with you. If your moms are together, it will make them both feel better. They do that for each other, don't they?"

"Yep, they do."

Bianca wiped a stray tear, amazed at just how thoughtful her children were. "Gabby, are you okay if I stay with Marissa tonight at the hospital?"

Gabby pondered the question for a moment before hopping off Bianca's lap and running into the other room. The others looked at each, and Bianca started to get up to follow her youngest when she reappeared.

"Will you give this to Mommy? Minx always makes me feel better. If she has you and him with her, I know she'll get better."

Bianca scooped up Gabby, hugging and kissing her while wiping away tears. "Are you sure, Baby? I know how much Minx means to you."

"I'm sure, Mommy. She needs him more than I do right now."

/

"Which reminds me." Bianca and Kendall cleared the food wrappers and containers away. Bianca retrieved her overnight bag and sat on Marissa's bed where she reached inside it. "Gabby thought he might make your hospital stay a little brighter and get you home quicker."

Marissa wasn't able to stop her tears as she took her youngest daughter's beloved stuffed monkey from Bianca. "She sent Minx?"

Bianca nodded as she wiped Marissa's tears away. "Yes. She said that he always makes her feel better, and you need him more than she does right now."

"She is incredible. They all are, but this is just … I don't know what to say. Are you sure she's only 4 years old?"

Bianca chuckled. "Yes, I'm sure, but she does make me wonder sometimes. They all are wise beyond their years. That is until they start with the 'he's looking at me' or 'she's touching me'. It's all out the window then."

Marissa laughed. "Ah yes, those are fun times."

Kendall checked the time. "Are you ready to talk to them? We told Zach we'd be calling about now."

"Yeah, I'm ready. Do I look okay, B? I don't want to scare them."

"You look beautiful." Bianca smiled and leaned in for a quick kiss. "But I know what you mean. The bruises aren't too bad so I think you'll be fine."

Kendall made the connection, and the three women were soon greeted by Zach.

"Hey, Red. It's good to see you. How are you feeling?"

"Hey, Zach. Like I told your wife, it's good to be seen. I'm doing okay. I really appreciate everything you and Kendall are doing for us."

"It's not a problem. We're here anytime you need us. I have three kids here chomping at the bit to talk with you so I'll let you get to them. We'll talk when you get home. Take care of yourself, Red."

"Thanks, Zach."

"Mom!"

"Rissa!"

"Mommy!"

"Hey, guys! It's so good to see you."

"Are you feeling okay, Rissa?"

"Do you hurt much, Mom?"

"I miss you, Mommy."

"We all miss you."

Marissa fought the tears wanting to form and smiled. "I miss the three of you too, so much. I'm a little sore, and I've got a little headache. I'm getting better though especially now that I've seen you and because of this little guy." The redhead pulled Gabby's stuffed monkey to her face and gave him a little kiss. "Thank you, Monkey. I can't tell you how much it means to me that you let me borrow him. I promise to take good care of him until I come home."

Gabby grinned, pleased with herself. She knew it was a good idea. "You're welcome, Mommy!"

"What happened, Mom?"

"I can't remember a lot because I hit my head, but another driver wasn't paying attention and hit my car. Luckily, I was wearing my seatbelt, like you're supposed to do. That's why Bianca and I always make sure the three of you wear your's." She didn't like lying to her kids about the cause of the accident, but it was necessary in this case.

"Are you going to be okay, Rissa? Mom says you are."

"You should listen to your Mom. She's right. The doctors say I'm going to be okay. They've been checking me out and running all kinds of tests to make sure."

"Mommy says you have to do what they tell you so we're going help with that."

"You are, huh? I guess I better then. I don't want the four of you ganging up on me."

The kids laughed.

"I just thought of something else you can help me with when my knee gets better."

"What's that, Mom?"

"I'm going to need to get a new car."

Bianca looked at her partner. "You're right, Marissa. I didn't even think about that. I guess your old car will need to be replaced."

"I'm afraid so. Do you think you guys are up for going car shopping?"

"Yeah! I'm more than ready, Mom! It'll be fun!"

Marissa laughed seeing the excitement in her son's eyes.

Miranda's nodded excitedly. "AJ's right. It'll be fun. Jessica's mom and dad just got a new car, and it's really cool."

"Who's getting a new car?"

"We are, Uncle Zach! Mommy's going to need a new car when she gets better."

"Well, that makes sense."

"Hi, Aunt Marissa!"

"Hi, Spike. Hi, Ian. How are you guys doing? Is that glitter in Ian's hair?"

The youngest Slater grinned while his brother shook his head. "Maybe, but we can't tell you anything, Aunt Marissa."

Kendall groaned. "Do I want to know what my dining room looks like?"

They could hear Zach laugh. "Probably not, but it's for a good cause."

"Uh huh, it's a good thing I like you so much, Red." Kendall smirked.

"Come on, guys. Let's work on cleaning up the dining room for your Mom."

"See you soon, Aunt Marissa!"

"Bye, guys! So, how was school?"

The kids rattled off the details of their school day and how they spent the previous night playing games and watching movies. Bianca noticed Marissa struggling to hold back a yawn and knew it was time to end the call. It wouldn't be a popular decision, but Marissa needed her rest. The brunette wanted her home and healed, and Bianca was going to make sure she didn't overdo and delay either of those things.

"Okay, gang. We need sign-off."

"Aww, Mom!"

"Mommy."

"Bianca."

"Sorry, guys, but if we want Marissa home in a couple of days, she needs her rest." That did the trick.

"Okay. Can we talk to you again later, Rissa?"

Marissa looked at her partner and smiled. She knew she was going to be tough and make sure she followed all the rules. Bianca did nod though. "Bianca's right. I am feeling a little tired, and I need to rest up a little before the doctor stops by and makes me work some on my knee. Yes, we'll talk later though. I promise. Be good for Zach and Kendall. I love you, guys."

"Love you, Mom!"

"Love you, Rissa!"

"Love you, Mommy!"

Bianca smiled. "I'll call you later to let you know how Marissa's doing. Be good. I love you."

"Love you!" She was answered in unison.

Kendall disconnected the session and closed the laptop. "I think that's my cue to leave. Get some rest, Red. We need you out there causing trouble." She leaned in and hugged the redhead.

"Thanks, Kendall, for everything."

Kendall gave her sister a hug. "Make sure you get some rest too. I'll call you later."

"Thanks. I will. I promise."

After Kendall left, Bianca started to take a seat back in her chair.

"What are you doing?"

"I was planning on sitting."

"Nope, I don't think so." Marissa carefully shifted over in her bed and held up her covers. "I think you need to lay down. I got plenty of room here."

"What about your ribs and knee? I don't want to hurt you." Bianca protested.

"You couldn't if you tried. Besides, you know I always sleep better with you next to me. We both do." Marissa grinned.

Bianca chuckled. "You're right. We do. If you need me to move, I will. I'm serious about not wanting to aggravate any of your injuries."

"I know. We'll just be really careful."

Bianca eased onto the bed and gently took Marissa in her arms. Both women sighed contently. Try as she might to stay awake, Marissa was soon fast asleep. As she watched her lover sleep, Bianca felt herself finally begin to relax and drifted to sleep.

/

"You must be Ms. Montgomery. I'm Kate Lawson, Marissa's orthopedist." The doctor extended a hand to Bianca who shook it.

"Hello, Dr. Lawson. How is she really doing?"

"I told you, Doctor." Marissa smirked.

The doctor chuckled. "Yes, you did." She looked at Bianca's questioning expression. "Marissa said you would want to confirm what I told her. It's not that you wouldn't believe her, but you would want to make sure she wasn't overstating what I told her. She's doing well. I was quite pleased with her progress when I saw her earlier. Alright, Marissa. Let's get you up and walking some more."

Bianca started to move to help but stopped when Marissa shook her head. The brunette watched as her partner slowly got out of bed and made her way around the room.

"How are you doing with the pain, Marissa?" The doctor questioned.

"It's mainly my ribs more than anything, Dr. Lawson."

"That's understandable and more reason to take it slow. Okay, have a seat and let me check your knee."

Bianca watched as the doctor examined Marissa's knee. The redhead caught her attention and winked causing the brunette to grin. "Behave."

Dr. Lawson glanced up at the couple and smiled. It looks like the stories I'm hearing about the two of them are right. "Her knee looks good, and there's not much swelling. You seem to have gotten the hang of using your crutches, Marissa. I want you to go for a little walk up and down the hallway later tonight and then take it easy. I'll be back to check on you tomorrow, and we'll do some more x-rays. I want to see you on Thursday for one final exam. If that looks like I expect to, we'll do your surgery on Friday. How does that sound?"

"It sounds good to me." Marissa sighed.

"It's not too soon?"

"No, it's not, Ms. Montgomery. The sooner, the better in my opinion. She'll need to wear a brace for a while to give her knee some support and some physical therapy afterwards, but I expect a full recovery. I need to check on a few more patients. If you have any more questions, let me know. I'll see you later."

"Thanks, Doctor."

"Thank you." Bianca turned to face a grinning Marissa. "Don't say anything."

"I wasn't going to say anything."

"Uh huh, sure you weren't. I'm just worried about you and want to make sure you're okay and not doing too much. I could've lost you, and I don't know what I'd do without you."

Marissa finally saw the crack in Bianca's brave façade. She'd been waiting for it. The redhead patted the spot on the bed next to her. When Bianca sat down, Marissa took her hand. "I know, and I'm so sorry for putting you through all of this. I'm okay though and not going anywhere. You're stuck with me. I promised you old and gray, and I intend on keeping that promise." Marissa leaned in for a loving kiss.

When they separated, Bianca gave Marissa the goofy grin she loved so much. "Good. I'm going to hold you to that promise. You didn't do anything wrong so you don't need to apologize to me. I don't intend on letting you out of my sight though until Robert Brennan is caught, and don't even think of fighting me on this. You'd do the same thing if our roles were reversed and don't tell me otherwise."

Marissa shook her head and sighed. "You're right. I would. I suppose I can think of worse things than having you next to me all day and night." The redhead smirked. "Oh wait, I meant I can't think of anything better."

"Neither can I." Bianca whispered before capturing Marissa's lips again.

A knock on the door forced the couple to separate reluctantly.

"Well, we know it's not my sister or Greenlee." Bianca smirked.

Marissa laughed. "True. They don't knock. Come in."

Jesse ducked his head inside the room. "Ladies, is now a good time?"

"Hi, Jesse. It's as good of a time as any. My doctor just left with orders to rest."

"And she's going to do just that. Talking is allowed though."

As Bianca helped Marissa settle back into bed, the redhead whispered "I guess other activities will have to wait for a while, huh?"

Bianca grinned and whispered in return. "Unfortunately, yes. You've got some healing to do." The brunette sat beside her.

"Marissa, I can't tell you how happy I am to say that you look a thousand times better than the last time I saw you. How are you feeling?"

"I'm feeling okay, sore but okay. It could be a lot worse. I just have to remember to take it slow. Do you have some good news for us? Have you caught him?"

"I'm afraid we haven't, but we will. I promise you that I won't rest until he's back behind bars."

The three turned towards the door when they heard some raised voices outside.

"Let me see what's going on out there." Jesse opened the door and was promptly greeted by Assistant District Attorney Pete Taylor.

"Chief Hubbard, I need to see Ms. Tasker to get her statement, but your watchdog won't let me in to do my job." He took that opportunity to rush past him and into the room. "Ms. Tasker, it's good to see you again. You're not looking as bad as I thought you might. It's been a while since we tangled, but we're on the same side this time."

Bianca quickly stood in front of Marissa, preventing the man from getting any closer than he already was. In a voice that belied the torrent of emotions she was feeling upon seeing the A.D.A., she spoke quietly. "What are you doing here?"

Taylor tried to step around Bianca, but the brunette was too quick for him. "I'm here to get Ms. Tasker's statement. If you would please step aside and let me do my job. I would appreciate it." Bianca simply glared at the man, not budging one inch. "Otherwise, I'll have to ask Chief Hubbard to remove you, and you could be arrested for obstruction of justice, Ms.?"

"Montgomery, Bianca Montgomery. I'm Marissa's partner, and the only one going anywhere is you. You're not talking to her."

"I can't very well do my job if I can't talk with her. Now, I need you to move or …"

Marissa knew what he was saying was the wrong thing to say to Bianca. She knew her partner's distain for the man before Marissa was injured and now knew it had increased ten-fold since. Part of her knew she should probably rein her partner in, but the bigger part of her knew Bianca needed to release her anger over what had happened. It wasn't healthy for her to keep it inside. Like it or not, Pete Taylor was an available target, and Bianca was more than ready to unload on someone so why not this jackass. Marissa would step in before things got ugly, but for now, she would enjoy the show.

Jesse glanced at Marissa who shook her head indicating she didn't think he should interfere just yet, something of which Jesse was happy to oblige in this case. In his opinion, the A.D.A. deserved whatever he got.

Taylor sputtered to a stop seeing the look on Bianca's face. It did not match the kind spirit he had heard she was known for by a long shot. Did she just say Marissa was her partner?

Bianca took a deep breath and began to speak in a steely voice that would make her mother proud. "Do your job? No, I don't think so. You see if you had done your job to begin with, Marissa wouldn't be here right now. She'd be home with our children instead of in a hospital bed with broken ribs and a concussion and scheduling surgery for her knee followed by months of physical therapy. If you had done your job instead of being half-assed about it, none of us would be here, and Robert Brennan would be in jail."

"You don't know what you're talking about."

"Really? I don't know what I'm talking about? When Brennan had his bail hearing, word has it you showed up for it reeking of alcohol and unprepared. You didn't file paperwork that should've been filed. You didn't present key evidence that would've shown how violent he is. Where were the pictures and hospital reports detailing his wife's injuries? I can tell you where they weren't. They sure as hell weren't in court. Your incompetence tied the judge's hands, and he called you on it in court and on the record. He had to grant him bail, and because of that, because of you, he was out looking for a target. He couldn't find his wife so he went after Marissa. Here's something I'm wondering about. Given all of that, I have to wonder why you're handling her case."

"Well, I just happened to be there when the case came up and was assigned to it."

Bianca shook her head. "Yeah, I don't think so. You see a case like this could attract a lot of press, and it could help someone's career, maybe redeem it even. Of course, they would actually have to do some work, and I think we've established your work ethic or lack thereof. Knowing that, I really have to wonder why the District Attorney would assign you to this case, especially since Marissa and Mike are friends." When Bianca saw the expression on the attorney's face, she knew the answer to her question. "He didn't assign it to you, and I'd wager that he doesn't know that you're here. Did I miss anything or get anything wrong?"

"Uh, you, you can't talk to me like that. You don't know who I am, who my family is."

"Oh yes, I do, and I really don't care what connections you or more importantly your father may have. Marissa is neither a stepping stone for someone's career nor a way to redeem it. Take yourself and your father's political connections and leave. Don't even think about coming back. If you do, I'll have Chief Hubbard remove you and press charges." Bianca turned to look at Marissa who was grinning broadly. "Would that be harassment?"

The redhead was brimming with pride and nodded at her partner. "It would be."

Bianca smiled briefly in return, removing it before facing the A.D.A. again. "Leave before I change my mind and have him arrest you now. Oh, I'll be calling the District Attorney to let him know about your little visit and make sure someone who knows what they're doing handles her case."

Jesse somehow managed to keep a straight face and stepped forward. "I think it would be best if you left, Mr. Taylor. Let's go." The police chief escorted the speechless attorney from the room.

Marissa slowly leaned forward and took Bianca's hand causing the brunette to turn back to her. "Are you okay?"

Bianca nodded. "Yeah, I am. What about you?"

Marissa grinned. "I'm good. That was amazing. I just watched the woman I love kick that jerk's ass. Have I told you lately how proud I am of you and just how much I love you?"

Bianca couldn't help but smile seeing the expression on Marissa's face. "I do know how much you love me. That is something I never doubt. You know how much I love you?"

"I do, and I never have to doubt that either."

"Good. As for being proud of that display with Taylor, I'll just take into account that you're medicated right now. Otherwise, you wouldn't be proud of how I lashed out at him."

"While I am medicated right now, it's not to the point where it hinders my judgment, especially where you're concerned." Marissa patted the spot on the bed bedside her. "Please sit with me."

Bianca settled next to her partner.

"I am always proud of you. Why wouldn't I be? What did you say that wasn't true? Pete bears responsibility for Brennan being out on bail due to his incompetence. While he wasn't behind the wheel, his actions or rather his inactions gave Brennan the opportunity to be out and trying to hurt someone. If it wasn't me, it would've been Colleen or someone else. No, Pete's a jackass and deserved every word you said to him and then some. The only things you're guilty of are speaking the truth and protecting me, taking care of me. I have never felt more loved or safer in my life. I can't find anything wrong with that at all."

Bianca rewarded Marissa yet again with the goofy grin she loved so much following it with a quick kiss. "You always know what to say to make me feel better."

"I only speak the truth. You know, I just thought of something else. I can't wait to tell your mom and sister what you did. They're going to love it that you went all 'Kane woman' on him." Marissa smirked.

Bianca rolled her eyes. She could imagine their reactions.

"I have to agree with Marissa on that." Jesse agreed as he re-entered the room. "I know I enjoyed it. That man is an ass."

Marissa laughed. "It's unanimous. Hey, Jesse, could I borrow your phone?"

Bianca eyed her partner suspiciously. "Who are you calling? You're supposed to be taking it easy."

"I can't tell you just yet."

"Well, you can use mine. Why borrow Jesse's?"

"Your's won't have the number I need. Trust me, please."

"Always."

Jesse handed Marissa his cellphone. "You're sure I'll have the number you need?"

"I'm positive you will." Marissa scrolled through the contact list, found the number she wanted and pressed it to make the connection."

"Jesse, do you have an update for me on Marissa?"

"I can do better than that for you, Mike."

"Marissa? How are you? Do you need anything? Does Bianca need anything? I was going to stop by tomorrow and visit. I figured you needed the rest today."

The redhead grinned. She knew everyone meant well by asking, but she was getting a little tired of answering the same question on how she was. "I've been better, but give me a little time, and I'll be good as new. There is something you can do for both of us."

"Name it."

"Tell me that Pete Taylor isn't handling my case or going anywhere near it."

"Why the hell would I let him handle it? He's the reason Brennan is on the loose. Wait a minute. Don't tell he stopped by."

"I could tell you that, but it wouldn't be true. He just left. He said he was here to take my statement and that he was assigned to take it."

"That lying sack of … Marissa, I would never do something like that. Jesse is taking your statement, and I'm going to meet with him afterwards. I plan on handling your case myself. I'm going to make sure everything is done correctly and make sure that son of a bitch goes to jail for a very long time. You have my word on that."

"Thanks, Mike. I knew you didn't assign him."

"He didn't upset you or anything, did he?"

"Me? No, he didn't. Bianca made sure of that. She handed him his ass actually."

Mike laughed. "I'm sure she did. I would've liked to have seen that."

"It was pretty good. Could you tell Bianca what you just told me about the case?"

"Sure, I'd be happy to. Put her on."

"Hi, Mike."

"Hi, Bianca. Is Marissa really okay?"

The brunette smiled. "Yes, I'm happy to say she is."

"I can't tell you how glad I am to hear that. How are you doing?"

"Now that I know she's going to be okay and she's acting like her normal stubborn self, I'm okay. I'll be better when I get her home though."

"I'm sure you will. Now about Pete, I don't want you to worry about him. He's not handling Marissa's case. I am, and I'm going to make sure Brennan pays for everything. I'm also going to take care of Pete. This stunt of his is the final straw. I don't care who is father is or who he knows. He doesn't work in this office anymore. You have my word on that."

"Thank you, Mike. I needed to hear that."

"You're welcome. I planned on visiting Marissa tomorrow. Is that still good?"

"It's great. We'll both be happy to see you."

"I'll be there then. If you need anything, you just let me know. Tell Marissa I said goodbye, and I'll see you both tomorrow."

"We'll see you then." Bianca disconnected the call and handed the phone back to Jesse. She noticed Marissa was smiling. "Go ahead and say it."

"Say what?"

"I worry too much."

Marissa shook her head. "I think you worry just the right amount, probably less than I would. So, Jesse, what's going on with Brennan?"

Jesse pulled a chair out and sat down. "I can tell he was hurt in that crash. We found blood on the inside of his car. I can't tell you how badly though. Witnesses say they saw a man fitting his description heading away from the crash who looked to be hurt. We followed a blood trail for a couple of blocks with police dogs, but they lost the scent. This leads me to believe that he's holed up somewhere trying to heal."

"You know don't where."

"I hate to say it, but no, we don't. We know that he's not at his home or at his mother's. We've got both places under surveillance. We've also got a wiretap on his mother's home and cell numbers if he contacts her for help of any kind. We're checking all of the area hospitals and clinics. The banks and credit card companies have been notified and instructed to contact us the second he tries to access any of his accounts. We're canvasing the whole city and the surrounding area. We'll find him. In the meantime, I'm going to have officers outside your room and your home when you leave here. What I need from you, Marissa, is to tell me what you remember about last night."

"I only remember part of what happened. Dr. Torres says that's normal with head traumas."

"Okay, tell me what you do remember."

/

Bianca closed the door after Jesse left and turned to look at Marissa. The brunette could tell she was exhausted. "You should try and get some rest, Rissa. I don't want you wearing yourself out."

"I have to admit I'm a little tired. I know you are too. I tell you what. I'll get some rest if you will, and before you say anything, I sleep much better with you beside me." Marissa grinned as she patted her bed.

Bianca chuckled. She couldn't refuse Marissa anything when she looked at her the way she was now. It worked earlier, and it worked now. It always would. "Okay, but I want you to promise to rest."

Marissa grinned even wider. "I promise."

Bianca settled next to Marissa who sighed happily when she felt Bianca's arms envelop her.

/

Dark eyes opened and winced at the sunlight filtering through the crack in the curtains. The shaggy haired man took in his surroundings. Robert Brennan had been able to make it to Center City and crashed at the first place he could find. The Hideaway Inn was a dive and nothing at all like he was used to, but they didn't ask questions and took cash. He also fit in with their not so savory cliental now. He slowly sat up. His head and side were killing him. The crash took more out of him than he thought originally. He thought about going to an emergency room, but when he saw the police outside of Center City Memorial, he quickly changed his mind, thinking better of it. He grabbed the remote and flipped on the TV finding the local news. He turned up the volume when he saw an older picture of himself appear on the screen. It really didn't look like him now.

"Ms. Tasker's condition has been upgraded to good, and she is expected to make a full recovery. Police are on the lookout for Robert Brennan who is the estranged husband of one of Ms. Tasker's clients. Mr. Brennan's wife Colleen recently filed for divorce as well as assault charges for an attack Brennan committed on her earlier this year. He was out on bail at the time of the attack on Ms. Tasker, and police believe the two incidents are related. If you see Robert Brennan, do not approach him. He is considered violent. You're asked to contact either the Pine Valley Police Department or Crime Stoppers at the numbers on the screen. Ms. Tasker is the partner of business woman, philanthropist and founder of the Miranda Center, Bianca Montgomery. A statement was released by a spokeswoman for the couple's family. They thanked the public for their concern and well wishes for Ms. Tasker's speedy recovery and also ask for their support in locating Brennan. They are offering a reward for information leading to his arrest."

That bitch is alive! She's taken everything from me, my wife, my son, my home. I'm on the run staying in this hellhole, and she's going to be just fine! Not if I can help it. An evil smile crossed the man's face. Her partner, huh? You took my wife away from me. I think it's only fair you know how I feel.

/

A/N: Yeah, I did it again. I was going to end this chapter with Bianca and Marissa, but one of my wonderful reviewers made a comment that nudged my evil side awake. She was just taking a little break this chapter but that went out the door. The evil side was inspired and took over with that last little burst about Brennan. I told you that you all inspired me!