A/N: First, sorry for the slight delay in updating. Work was kicking my butt this week. I think things have settled down there finally though (fingers crossed, knock wood, whatever else I can do). Second, thanks for reading and reviewing! It means a lot!
I have what I hope you'll think is good news. A couple of more ideas popped into my head. They will result in at least two more chapters in addition to what I already had planned. I'm not saying what they are though. You'll just have to continue reading to see what I have in store for Minx.
Okay, this chapter picks up right where the last one left off. Hope you enjoy this update!
/
After leaving Erica behind at the Yacht Club, Marissa headed over to the school to pick up Miranda. On her way, she called her office and asked Lisa, her paralegal, to gather her work laptop and files for specific cases she was currently working on together for her and drop them off at her home later for the redhead to work on from there. When that call was finished, she called Bianca's cellphone and left a voicemail for her lover about Miranda. Whenever Bianca was in certain meetings, like ones discussing the Center's budget, she would leave her cellphone in her office to avoid interruptions. She only did this however when she knew Marissa was available should something come up involving the kids, like today. Marissa did the same thing. It was something they worked out when they moved in together. They always made sure one of them was available. When Bianca heard Marissa had a lunch meeting today and assumed it was with a client, she had insisted on being the primary contact. She only relented after Marissa had repeatedly assured her that, should the need arise, she could leave her meeting without any consequences.
"Hey, it's me. The school just called. Miranda's not feeling well. I'm on my way over there now to pick her up. I'm going to finish up the day at home. You'll need you to pick up our other two monsters if you can. I think I might go ahead and schedule a doctor's appointment for Mimo since she's had a few sore throats lately. You know, scratch that. The more that I think about it now, I am just going to call the doctor and see if she can squeeze us in. I know you'll call as soon as you get this so I'll talk to you soon. Love you."
Marissa disconnected the call and dialed the kids' pediatrician. She was relieved that the doctor had a last minute cancellation and could see Miranda in half an hour. After finishing that call, she finally permitted herself to think about what had just transpired at the restaurant.
Erica had actually given her blessing for Marissa's intentions to propose to Bianca. Marissa grinned and shook her head trying to wrap her head around everything. It actually went better than she thought it would. It wasn't that she doubted Erica would refuse her request. It was more that she thought she might get more of the third degree from the woman. I guess it does help being a lawyer when talking with Erica sometimes. I just plow through my points and counter any arguments that she might have. Now that Erica was taken care of, Marissa needed to decide exactly when and where she planned on popping the big question. She had a couple of ideas. She just needed to figure out which one was right because she wanted this moment to be perfect for Bianca.
/
Marissa walked into the nurse's office and saw Miranda lying down, resting. The redhead spoke quietly with the school nurse for a few minutes before kneeling next to her oldest daughter. Miranda looked flushed from a fever. She gently brushed a lock of her daughter's hair from her forehead and rested her hand there. She felt warm, too warm for Marissa's liking. The redhead was glad she followed her instincts and made a doctor's appointment on the way over. The children's pediatrician, Dr. Parrish, was very good, and the kids loved her. Marissa was thankful Miranda wouldn't have to wait too long for some hoped for relief.
Miranda stirred. "Ma?"
"I'm right here, Sweetie. How do you feel?"
Tears started to form in Miranda's eyes. "My throat really hurts when I swallow, Ma."
"I'm so sorry, Sweetie. We're going to go see Dr. Parrish. She's going to make you feel better. Okay?"
"Okay." Miranda nodded weakly.
Marissa helped her daughter with her coat and gathered her backpack before leading her to the car. Once they were buckled in, they headed straight to the doctor's office. Marissa decided to call Bianca after they got there. The couple tried to limit the use of cellphones while driving if possible, particularly if the kids were in the car.
/
An odd thought struck Kendall causing her to laugh.
Erica looked at her daughter curiously. "What's so funny?"
"I was about to ask what you thought would happen if one of them said 'no' to the other's proposal, but I couldn't even get that out let alone say it with a straight face."
Erica chuckled. "I think you're right. The probability of either refusing the other is highly unlikely even if we didn't already know that both were thinking of proposing."
"You're right. Those two are so far gone over each other. It's good to see both of them so happy. They deserve it. So, Red asked you for Bianca's hand in marriage."
"Yes, she did. She said that while she didn't need a piece of paper to define or validate their relationship, she was somewhat old fashioned and wanted to marry Bianca. She also wanted my blessing. I have to admit that I was impressed by that."
"And that's something that doesn't happen very easily."
"No, it doesn't. I also have to admit that I was slightly concerned when she had to take a call just as she was stating how their family always comes first with her. I couldn't help but wonder if she was being completely honest. I thought it highly suspect on the timing and had me questioning her sincerity when she said she had to leave. Then, she told me that Miranda wasn't feeling well, and with Bianca unavailable due to meetings, she would need to pick her up. While she may have wanted my blessing, Miranda came first. She has her priorities correct."
"That doesn't surprise me in the slightest. No matter how formidable the situation was with her asking for your blessing, it pales when it comes to Bianca and the kids. Nothing or no one is more important to either Marissa or Bianca than family. I know Miranda is in good hands and will be just fine."
"I believe you're right. Marissa proved to me yet again today that nothing comes before Bianca and the children."
Kendall grinned at her next thought. "Did you see the paper today?"
"You mean did I see that horrid reporter's picture? Yes, I did. I enjoyed seeing it a great deal. Although, I do believe I enjoyed the video more. I'm not sure that I ever thanked you for sending that to me." Erica grinned.
"You're welcome. We're not alone when it comes to enjoying the video. Did you question Marissa about it?"
"I did. She admitted that this woman got under her skin and wasn't proud of losing her temper. You know that she and Bianca try to teach the children otherwise. Marissa was also a little concerned about what I may think of her as a result of her actions."
"And?"
"I assured her that I was more than fine with what she had done. The woman deserved no less than what she received."
"You won't get any argument from me on that. I actually think Red showed great restraint handling her."
Erica paused. "Enough about that woman and all of that unpleasantness, let's talk about something happier."
Kendall eyed her mother. "I take it you have something particular in mind."
"I do. I was thinking about weddings. I wonder when they'll get married. We really should start planning. They could have a destination wedding. Somewhere tropical would be very nice. They always could have a more formal wedding though and have it at the church they attend. I'm sure Marissa would appreciate that. We should get started on a guest list as well. It's never too early to get that together."
"Shouldn't we wait until they're at least engaged and get their input on the planning and the guest list?" Kendall asked but knew it was a ridiculous and futile question. Once her mother had something in mind, there was really nothing that could divert her from her self-appointed goal.
Erica looked at her daughter like she had two heads. It really was a silly question. "It always pays to be prepared, dear. They'll thank me for this."
Kendall sighed and shook her heard. When the time came, she would have to warn the couple that Erica was in full 'mother of the bride' mode. Red must really love Bianca to take Mom on as her mother-in-law.
/
Marissa and Miranda arrived at the doctor's office and checked in with the office clerk. After taking a seat, the redhead pulled out her cellphone. She still hadn't heard from Bianca which could only mean that she hadn't checked her messages yet and didn't know what was going on regarding their oldest daughter. If she did, Bianca would have called. On the drive over, Marissa had contemplated whether or not to call Bianca again to let her know that she had in fact decided to take Miranda to the doctor or wait until after they saw the doctor. She finally decided to go ahead and call now and let Miranda and Bianca talk beforehand. It would ease both Montgomery women. With that decision made, Marissa bypassed calling Bianca's cellphone and called her assistant.
"Miranda Center, Aya speaking. How can I help you?"
"Aya, hi, it's Marissa."
"Oh Marissa, hi. Sorry, I didn't look at the number before I answered. I just sat down to cover for Jan while she's at lunch. What can I do for you?"
"I know Bianca is in a meeting, but I need to talk with her."
Aya's demeanor changed immediately. Marissa rarely requested them to interrupt one of Bianca's meetings. When she did, it was for good reason and usually meant something was up with one of the kids. "I'll get her right away. Are you okay with being on hold?"
"I am. Thanks."
"Okay, I'll be right back."
Marissa continued to soothe Miranda and rub her back as the girl leaned against her. She could tell her daughter didn't feel well but didn't want to complain too much, just like Bianca.
/
Aya headed down the hall to the conference room. She entered the room as discretely as possible and stepped over to Bianca who was listening to someone trying to make a point about a budget item. Bianca turned her head while Aya leaned down to whisper to her boss.
"I'm sorry to interrupt, but Marissa is on hold. She asked to speak with you."
Bianca nodded and tried to contain the worry that immediately came to mind. "Tell her I'll be right there." The brunette cleared her throat and addressed the others in the room. "I'm sorry to interrupt, Tom, but I need to take a call. Why don't we take a short break?" Before the others could object, Bianca was out of the room and headed towards her office.
/
When Aya saw Bianca approaching her office, she spoke. "She's on line 1."
"Thank you." Bianca walked into her office and took the seat behind her desk. "Hey, is everything alright?"
"Hey, yourself. First, don't worry. Everything's fine. I just thought you'd want me to call now rather than later. I got a call from the school. Miranda wasn't feeling well. Her throat was bothering her again. I went over and picked her up. Since she's had a few of them lately and has a fever, I decided to go ahead and make an appointment. Dr. Parrish was able to fit us in, and we're just waiting for her now."
Bianca released the breath it felt like she'd been holding ever since Aya had told her Marissa was on hold for her. She knew Miranda was in the best possible hands and that she shouldn't worry so much. It was something she couldn't do though. She would always worry about her kids and Marissa. The brunette looked at the cellphone sitting on her desk. "I guess the voicemail I have on my cellphone is from you."
"Yes, I called you when I was on my way over to the school. I'll need you to pick up AJ and Gabby."
"Of course."
"Would you like to talk to Miranda?"
"Yes, please."
"Miranda, you want to talk to your Mom?"
The girl nodded and took the cellphone from her redheaded mother. "Hi, Mom."
"Hi, Sweetie. Rissa tells me you're not feeling well. Your throat is sore again."
"Uh huh, it really hurts when I swallow."
"Dr. Parrish will take a look and will get you feeling better really soon, Sweetie."
"Okay, Mom. Ma wants to talk to you. Love you."
"I love you, Mimo." Bianca felt absolutely helpless. She knew there wasn't anything she could do that Marissa wasn't doing right now though.
"Hey, they're ready for us. I'll call you as soon as I know something. I love you."
"I love you too."
/
When they got home, Marissa suggested that Miranda change into her pajamas knowing that her daughter would be much more comfortable and could hopefully take a nap. While Miranda was changing, Marissa started to warm up some chicken noodle soup for her. Miranda needed to eat a little something so that she could take her medicine. While the soup was cooking, Marissa let Max outside. The puppy was a little confused to see some of the family home so early but still very happy to see them.
Marissa had Miranda get in bed after she changed and brought her soup up to her. The redhead settled the tray in front of her daughter.
"I know it hurts to swallow, Sweetie, but I really need you to eat something so you can take your medicine. Okay?"
"Okay, Ma. I'll try."
"That's my girl. You did really well at the doctor's."
"I like Dr. Parrish. She's really nice."
Marissa smiled. "Yes, she is."
After Miranda had several spoonfuls of soup, Marissa gave her some medicine.
"I'm going to go let Max back in. You eat some more soup for me. Okay?"
Miranda nodded and continued to eat as the redhead headed downstairs.
/
Marissa was just closing the back door after letting Max back inside when she heard someone at the front one. The redhead went to answer it with the puppy tagging happily after her. Marissa smiled when she saw her paralegal on the other side.
"Hey, Lisa. Come on in."
"Hey, Marissa." The younger woman followed her boss inside and set the files and laptop down on the coffee table. The puppy barked to get her attention. Lisa leaned down and scratched behind his ears while he wagged his tail. "Hey, Max. You're getting big and you're such a good boy." As she continued to pet the puppy, she spoke to Marissa. "How's Miranda?"
"She's doing okay. I got her to eat a little something. I'm hoping that after she gets some rest and the medicine starts to kick that she'll feel better."
"Okay, I won't stay long. I've got all of the files you asked for. Your calendar is clear for the rest of the afternoon, and I'm working on the Davidson and Meyer briefs. I'll have them ready for you in the morning. Are you going to be in the office or working from here tomorrow? I was just wondering if I need to move any appointments for you."
"I'll be in the office. Bianca's going to stay home with Miranda. When I talked with her earlier, she insisted. She said it would it would be easier for her to work from here, and she didn't want me to have to rearrange any more meetings."
Lisa nodded and stood. "Okay, I'll see you tomorrow. Tell Miranda I hope she feels better."
"I will, and thanks for all of your hard work today. I appreciate it."
"You're welcome. I'll see you tomorrow."
Marissa closed the door and looked down at the puppy. "Come on, Max. Let's go check on Mimo." The puppy's tail thumped happily against the floor before trotting after the redhead. She found Miranda had finished some more of her soup. More importantly, her color was looking much better.
"Hi, Sweetie. Are you feeling any better?"
Miranda nodded. "A little."
"Are you done with your soup?"
"Yeah, I am."
"Okay, I'll take this away. You want to try and get some sleep?"
"Would you read to me first?"
Marissa nodded. Work could wait. Her daughter wanted her right now and that's what she would get. "Of course I will. I'll take this tray downstairs while you decide what you want me to read."
Miranda smiled softly. She had known that Marissa would stay with her. She only needed to ask her. It was something both of her moms would do that without a second thought. "Could Max stay with me?"
Marissa laughed. "I don't see why not. Max can keep an eye on you for me." The redhead bent down and scooped up the puppy and placed him on Miranda's bed. He scampered next to the girl and snuggled next to her. Max may only have been a puppy, but he was smart. He always knew when the kids were either not feeling well or a little sad and always tried his best to comfort them, usually succeeding. Marissa felt Miranda's forehead and was relieved to note that she didn't feel as much of a fever as she did earlier. The medicine must be kicking in. "I'll be right back, Mimo."
/
Before heading back upstairs, Marissa sent Bianca a quick text. She hadn't had a chance to call her lover before now. Her first priority was getting their daughter settled. She knew that while Bianca would be anxious to hear from her, she would understand the delay since she was taking care of Miranda. The text would be enough for now. A more involved conversation would be needed when Bianca got home.
"Miranda's feeling better. I got her to eat something. She wants me to read to her before she takes a nap. Don't worry. I'll fill you in on everything when you get home. Love you."