A/N: Thanks for the amazing reviews as always! Please keep them coming. They feed the creative beast. I'm glad you liked what Zach did to Brennan. That really was fun to write. For this chapter, we move forward in time about a week or two. It's just about time for them to move into their new home.

To all those celebrating, Happy Thanksgiving! I will have a chapter about that holiday, but it will have to wait until the chapter after next. I have to survive the holiday myself with my own family before I take on the Kane's celebrating it!

Hope you enjoy this update!

/

Bianca entered the law offices of Thompson, Stevens, Montgomery and Cortlandt to pick up Marissa. She stopped at the front desk wanting to make sure her partner wasn't in a last minute meeting with a client before heading back to her office. She wasn't supposed to be, but something could've very easily come up to change that. Marissa was still without a car, which was a situation they hoped to remedy the following weekend when they planned to go car shopping, so Bianca dropped her off after they took the kids to school and daycare. The plan for today was for Marissa to only be in the office for two hours. This was enough time for her to attend a quick staff meeting after which she was going to grab some files and be ready and waiting for Bianca, who had taken the day off, to pick her up. As the brunette waited for the receptionist to wrap up the call she was on, she saw Brian approach.

"Hey, Bianca. Let me guess. You're here for a certain redhead?"

Bianca chuckled. "Hey, Brian. Good guess. Yes, I am. We're picking up the keys to the new house from the decorator today. After that, the house is finally all ours. We're moving in this weekend."

"Ah yes, that's why Marissa was smiling so much in the staff meeting. I remember her mentioning this was moving weekend. I think it's great news, and Stef and I couldn't be happier for both of you. I'm sure all of you are anxious to get moved in."

"Yeah, we really are. It was a little hard getting the kids off to school this morning since they knew we were picking up the keys. You wouldn't believe how excited they are to see their rooms. They haven't seen them in a few weeks so they don't know exactly what they look like. They have a general idea, but we have a couple of surprises for them. To be honest, we can't wait to see for them to see them and see their reactions."

"From what Marissa has told me, I think the kids will love them."

"We think so too. Do you know if she's got anyone in her office? I'm supposed to pick her up so we can get over there."

"No, I don't think so. Come on. I'll walk part of the way to her office with you." Brian offered.

/

The door to Marissa's office was open, and Bianca poked her head in. She saw the redhead glance her way with both women smiling the instant their eyes met.

"I don't even have to look to know who's at your door. Hi, Bianca." Mike Jensen chuckled as he turned around.

"Hi, Mike. I can come back if you're in the middle of something." The brunette wasn't exactly sure why the District Attorney was here but she had a pretty good idea.

"No, we finished up a little bit ago and were just chatting. Marissa was telling me about the house. Congratulations."

"Thanks." Bianca smiled.

The D.A. stood. "I better go. I don't want to hold you up since I know you have plans. Marissa, I'll let you fill her in on everything. Take care, and I'll see you soon. Oh, have a great Thanksgiving."

"Bye, Mike. Thank you for everything and for stopping by to give me this update. I know I'm not speaking for just myself when I say how much everything you've done is appreciated. Happy Thanksgiving." Marissa smiled as she hugged her friend.

"I second everything Marissa just said. Happy Thanksgiving, Mike." Bianca added with a warm hug of her own before he left.

Marissa greeted her lover with a quick kiss. "I know you want to know what that was all about, and I promise I'll tell you everything, just not here though. We have a few stops to make before meeting Trish, and if we don't leave now, we'll be late."

"You're right. We do, and we will be if we don't get going. What do you need me to do?" Bianca asked as she watched Marissa undock her laptop.

"Could you grab those files for me?" The redhead asked as she put her laptop in her bag and grabbed her purse. "Ready?"

"Yep! Let's go!"

/

Errands were completed and groceries were bought for the new place. On the drive over to their new home, Marissa explained the reason behind the D.A.'s impromptu visit. "Mike wanted my input before he spoke with Brennan's lawyer. It seems Brennan thinks he has some leverage and wants a deal."

"Really? What the hell kind of leverage could he possibly have that merits any sort of deal?" Bianca was then struck by a sudden realization. She glanced quickly over at Marissa. "Zach."

"Yes, he's claiming Zach assaulted and brutalized him, and he's threatening to file charges against him. At this point though, it's pretty much his word against Zach's. The security guards are backing up Zach's story. The cameras conveniently went offline right after Ben and the other guards had him restrained so there's no footage to back up the alleged assault. While we were there, we didn't see anything because we were in the conference room which, between you and me, was great thinking on Zach's part. So, there is no one or nothing to corroborate Brennan's story."

"So, what did Mike want if that's the case?"

"He admitted that it all looks somewhat suspect and wanted to be prepared just in case something comes up."

"Meaning that if Brennan insists that Zach be brought up on charges?"

"Exactly. After everything that Zach and Kendall have done for us, how much they've helped us during this whole mess, I'm not willing to have that happen no matter what Zach says. I couldn't live with myself if he went to jail over this."

"Neither could I, but I also don't want Brennan to get off the hook for almost killing you. So, what's the solution you've come up with, Counselor?"

"What makes you think I came up with something?"

"Because I know you and I know that look you get when you come up with something brilliant." Bianca grinned.

Marissa laughed. "I really think you're exaggerating my brilliance, B. Besides, Mike's pretty damn good."

"First of all, I don't think I'm exaggerating at all when it comes to you. Second, yes, I know Mike is pretty damn good, almost as good as you. So, what did you two legal eagles come up with?"

"Mike wanted my input because several of the charges filed against Brennan were ones he committed against me so Mike and I were throwing some ideas around. You see, Brennan has five felony assault charges in addition to the attempted assault on you against him along with a wide variety of other felony and misdemeanor charges. The assault charge against Colleen is off the table and will not be discussed in any deal along with the attempted assault on you. They are simply not up for discussion. That leaves three other felonies for assault. I'm not willing to let him off the hook for Lisa's assault. She's an innocent bystander here. I'm willing to drop the lesser assault charge, the one that happened at the office but not the one that put me in the hospital. He deserves the maximum sentence on that for what he put you through alone. We called Ben and talked to him. He's willing to let Mike reduce the charge for his assault to a misdemeanor. Ben's still feeling pretty good about his takedown of Brennan. More importantly, he feels he owes Zach so he's willing to do whatever. If that means reducing the charges, he's onboard. The other charges can be mixed and matched as well. Like I said, Brennan has a very long list of charges against him. None of that will happen though if Mike has his way. He's going for it all if he can get it or a minimal reduction which I'm all in favor of. He needed options, and I gave him some."

"Well, I agree with Mike. I want Brennan to get the maximum with no deals. What about the recordings from the Center? Doesn't that pretty much make Brennan's case non-existent?"

"Oh yeah, about the recordings, they don't know about them yet."

"Don't they have to know? Isn't Mike required to tell the other side about them?"

Marissa grinned. "You really are picking up on the legal biz. Yes, they would find out during the discovery phase, but they haven't entered that phase yet. Mike is using that as his ace in the hole. What's been recorded is pretty damning, even if it cuts out quickly. After all, computer outages happen all the time …"

"And knowing Zach, he'll have that covered with an expert ready to testify that there was a problem with the equipment."

"I'd be very surprised if he didn't."

"So would I. Why is Mike meeting with them then?"

"If possible, he'd like to avoid a trial. It would be resolved faster, and we wouldn't have to testify. Plus, he would be saving the state a lot of money by avoiding a trial which has its political benefits. I trust Mike. He wants Brennan to pay for everything he's done so I have no doubt that he'll be doing a lot of time in prison."

"If you trust him, then so do I. Will you let Zach know what's going on?"

"We actually gave him a heads up on things earlier when Mike and I were talking. He said he wasn't worried and didn't want me to think about it. I don't see that happening. I'll call Zach with an update after I hear back from Mike." Marissa was interrupted by the ringing of her cellphone. "Speak of the devil. Hey, Mike."

Bianca waited anxiously while Marissa spoke with the D.A. She chanced a glance at the redhead and released a sigh of relief when she saw Marissa begin to smile.

"I knew you wouldn't let us down. Thanks again for everything, Mike." The redhead disconnected the call.

"Well?"

"Okay, Brennan was facing 30 years for everything. Once he was shown the footage from the Center, he agreed to plead guilty in exchange for a slightly reduced sentence and will be spending the next 20 years in prison."

"What about parole?"

"No parole. He serves the full 20 years. He could've gotten parole, possibly serving a shorter sentence otherwise, possibly but unlikely."

Bianca sighed again. "Thank you, Mike! What about Zach?"

"No charges will be filed against Zach. Mike was able to convince him that it was in his best interest not to pursue those charges."

"That is great news, Rissa! I don't have to tell you how relieved I am to hear all of that."

Marissa smiled. "No, you don't because I'm just as relieved as you are. Okay, I need to let Zach know."

Bianca nodded while Marissa called Zach and relayed the details of what happened to him.

Marissa wrapped up the call just as they turned down the driveway leading to their new home. A huge grin spread across both of their faces when the house came into view. Instinctively, they reached for the other's hand. Bianca whispered. "We're home."

The redhead pressed her lips to her partner's hand. "Yes, we are."

/

The couple pulled up to the front of the house and got out, pausing briefly to take the moment in before smiling at each other. The decorator quickly came outside and greeted them.

"Bianca, Marissa, it's good to see you."

"Hi, Trish. It's good to see you too." Marissa offered in greeting.

"I have something I know the two of you are anxious for." The decorator smiled and handed each woman a set of keys.

The couple couldn't stop grinning.

"I'm happy to say that it's all yours. I've really enjoyed this assignment and working with both of you. I don't think I've ever had this much fun so thank you."

"You're welcome and thank you. You've done a wonderful job." Bianca said earnestly.

"If you have any questions or need anything, just let me know. Enjoy your new home. Bye."

The couple watched as the other woman drove away and then turned back to the house.

Bianca glanced at Marissa. "Are you ready?"

"More than ready." The redhead answered grinning.

They walked to the front door. Bianca inserted the key into the lock, and Marissa turned the doorknob opening the door. They crossed over the threshold together. The couple walked slowly through their home taking everything in, beyond happy with the finished results.

When they walked into the kitchen, Bianca remembered what was in the car. "We really should bring the groceries inside."

"I forgot all about them. Let's go."

Marissa handled the kitchen while Bianca stocked the bathrooms knowing they would be needed tomorrow with everyone helping with the move.

Bianca stopped at the kitchen door when she heard Marissa humming happily as she finished putting the last of the groceries away. The brunette grinned as she watched the woman who owned her heart. A feeling of utter happiness swept over her. Before she knew it, she was crossing the room and wrapping her arms around the redhead's waist.

"Do you know how beautiful you are, how happy you make me?" Bianca whispered.

Marissa leaned immediately in to her lover's touch. "You let me know every day, not just with words but also with a look or a touch. I feel exactly the same way about you."

"I was thinking that we should christen our new home properly." Bianca grinned mischievously and began slowly trailing kisses along Marissa's neckline soon finding her favorite spot, the one behind the redhead's ear, the one that made her powerless to resist Bianca, not that she ever would. Marissa moaned loudly and quickly turned to capture Bianca's lips for a searing kiss.

"I love how you think and couldn't agree more." Marissa husked before claiming her lover's lips again. Clothes were quickly discarded as Bianca pulled them to the floor.

/

Having finally made in from the kitchen via a more than pleasurable stop in the family room, the couple lay entwined on their bed, content and, for the moment, sated.

Marissa softly caressed the wondrously soft curves of Bianca knowing she would never get enough of her lover. She loved the velvety soft skin and the reaction Bianca's body had to her touch.

As for Bianca, she delighted in Marissa's touch which elicited so many feelings and sensations in her from warmth to arousal. She would never grow tired of those caresses. Bianca sighed happily.

Marissa raised her head and gave the brunette a dazzling smile. "Good afternoon, Beautiful!"

Bianca laughed. "I have to say I love your afternoon routine."

"I love the evening routine you created and your idea of how to christen our home."

"What can I say? You inspire me."

"What is it about you and kitchens?" Marissa chuckled.

"It's not the room. It's who's in it." Bianca grinned as she captured Marissa's lips, enjoying the taste of her love's intoxicating lips.

The sound of slamming car doors had them separate.

"Who could that be?" Bianca wondered.

"I'm not sure, but whoever it is knows we're here since your car's out front. I'll go check." Marissa got out of bed and threw some clothes on. "I'll get rid of them as fast as I can so don't go anywhere. I'm not done with you yet." The redhead grinned wickedly before kissing Bianca quickly and heading out.

Bianca sighed and laid back down, more than happy to wait for her lover's return. She quickly remembered something and hopped out of bed. "Rissa, I'm pretty sure it's Kendall and probably Greenlee."

"You've got to be kidding me. I love your family, but I swear they have the worst timing."

"I know, but this time is my fault. I forgot I told Kendall we were stopping by. She volunteered to bring over a few things for tomorrow. Sorry. I was distracted earlier. You have that effect on me."

Marissa chuckled. "It's okay, but uh, B, I think you should probably get dressed. I'm not complaining mind you, but your sister and cousin might be a different story."

"Crap! I'll get dressed. Stall them, please!"

Marissa laughed as she padded down the hallway towards the front door as she put her hair into a ponytail. She chanced a quick glance outside. Bianca was right. It was none other than the dynamic duo.

/

The redhead took a deep breath as she opened the door.

"Hi, Kendall, Greenlee. What a nice surprise."

"Hi, Red. I told Bianca I would drop a few things off for tomorrow for when your unpaid help needs sustenance for helping with the move." Kendall smiled as she held up several bags filled with chips, pretzels and a variety of other supplies.

"I tagged along for a sneak peek of 'Minx Manor'. Where's Bianca?" Greenlee smirked as she noted Marissa's flushed face.

"Come on in." Marissa stepped aside for the friends to enter. "Seriously, Greenlee? 'Minx Manor'?"

"What? I like it. So, where's Bianca?"

"She's in back putting a few things away. Let's put that stuff away, Kendall."

"Did Bianca forget to tell you that I was stopping by, Red?"

"Yeah, she did, Curly, but there's so much going on that I'm not surprised."

The friends followed Marissa to the kitchen. Kendall noticed a bottle of wine and looked at the label.

"Wow, that's a nice wine."

"It's a housewarming gift from Trish. Bianca and I plan are cracking it open tomorrow night. It's nice of you to drop this off."

"It's no problem. Besides, it lets me get a sneak peek of the place too. I also wanted to thank you. Zach told me about the deal Mike worked out and that no charges will be filed against my husband. I know you had something to do with that. I appreciate it."

"I honestly didn't have much to do with it, Kendall. I'm glad to give any help that I could though. I didn't want Zach to face charges for helping us."

"That makes two of us, and don't listen to her. She had more to do with it than she lets on." Bianca added as she joined the other three.

"So, let's have the tour of Minx Manor."

"What's 'Minx Manor'?"

Marissa grinned. "This place apparently, at least according to Greenlee."

Bianca rolled her eyes. "Great. The kids will be all over that."

"I figured you needed a name for the place." Greenlee noticed that Bianca was flushed as well. "Did we interrupt something?"

Kendall laughed at the couple's shared expression. "Don't even bother asking. There's nothing I can do with her, and I don't want to know what was interrupted. Please don't tell me. We can leave if you want."

Bianca looked at Marissa who nodded. "No, it's fine. Please stay. If I recall, someone mentioned a tour. Let's go." The friends oohed and ahhed and praised each room from the décor to the layout. At the end of the tour, they settled in the family room.

"Wow. This place is great, and I love the kids' rooms. Ryan and I have been thinking of redecorating our place. Could I get the name of your decorator?"

"Sure. I think you'll like her. Trish is very easy to work with." Marissa answered smiling.

"I love the view from your bedroom. It's incredible." Kendall added.

"It's Rissa's favorite spot." Bianca smiled at the redhead.

"It reminds me a little of back home in Devon. There were these woods that we would go hiking in on the weekends whenever we could. Dad would want us to get outside. He hated being cooped up in an office during the week. Even when he traveled, he had that feeling and couldn't wait to get home and go exploring."

"I can relate to getting outside and can't wait to go exploring our woods more with the kids. They loved our adventure a few weeks ago." Bianca squeezed Marissa's hand.

"I know you'll all be very happy here. It's a lot bigger than your other place, but it has that same feel. It's a home and not just a house. It definitely reflects the two of you." Kendall observed.

"Thanks. Rissa and I feel the same way about it, but it's nice to know that someone else sees it the same way."

"I hate to end this, but school's almost out for the day. I told Emma that I'd pick her up and we'd go shopping. She wants a new outfit for Thanksgiving."

"You're really rubbing off on her, Greenlee. The jury's still out on whether or not that's a good thing." Marissa smirked.

Kendall snorted. "I told you I wasn't the only one who thought that."

Greenlee threw a mock glare at the two over the playful insult and huffed. "The girl has style, and I'm simply encouraging it. Who knows? Maybe she'll be replacing you over at Fusion sooner than you think."

"I wouldn't wish that on the girl. She's so young and so nice and innocent."

"Keep it up, Slater."

Kendall laughed. "We'll see you tomorrow morning."

Bianca turned to Marissa as the pair drove off. "We need to go too. The kids will be waiting, and we have so much to do still."

"Are you telling me you regret taking the time out to christen this place?" Marissa flashed a cheeky grin.

"Not on your life. It was the best thing we've done all day, and one I intend on us completing." Bianca grinned mischievously. "We still have a few places left to christen. There's the bathroom. I have ideas for the shower and jacuzzi tub. Then, there's the upstairs guestroom, the downstairs guestroom …"

Marissa laughed as the couple headed out. "You do have the best ideas!"

/

A/N: The next chapter will cover moving day. I came up with how I wanted to do it earlier today, and I hope you like it. See you soon!