A/N: As always, thanks for reading, reviewing and following! I really appreciate it. While I did end up having training this week, I did have a majority of the wedding ceremony written already which means I get to make my normal Saturday update! Alright, I couldn't help myself on the previous chapter's little cliffhanger. My evil side was whispering in my ear again, and I didn't want to break the ceremony itself up. Now, I know that September 23rd did not fall on a Saturday this year, but I really wanted this wedding to happen on that date just 'cause (you can probably figure out why) so please work with me on that date. I'll leave it there and let you get to the story. Hope you enjoy this update!
/
Bianca Christine Montgomery and Marissa Lynn Tasker
request the pleasure of your company at the celebration of their marriage
Saturday, the twenty third of September two thousand thirteen
at five o'clock in the afternoon
Minx Manor
2441 Crescent Drive
Pine Valley, Pennsylvania
Reception to follow
/
Guests began to arrive and walked around to the backyard. As they stopped to sign the guest book and drop off gifts and cards, they couldn't help but admire the transformation that had taken place there. They almost didn't recognize the backyard. Guests began milling about, and various conversations took place as friends caught up with each other while they waited for the ceremony to begin.
/
Brian whispered to Stef. "I wonder what the guitar is for."
Stef followed her husband's gaze as she shifted Jamie in her arms. She noted a guitar resting on a stand next to two chairs near the DJ's station. "I don't know. I guess someone's going to be playing during the ceremony. Marissa didn't give you any clues about it?"
"No, she didn't. She and Bianca were keeping a few things quiet. I guess we'll find out soon enough." The man smiled. "I'm really happy for both of them."
"I am too. They deserve all the happiness in the world." Stef shifted her son again and chuckled as he babbled away and flirted with several of the guests.
"Do you think they're going to try and have a baby?"
"I wouldn't be surprised at all if they did. Both are great moms, and Marissa has mentioned that she'd like to have a baby."
Brian grinned. "That settles that then. Bianca will move heaven and earth to make Marissa happy."
Stef nodded. "You're right. She will, and the same can be said for Marissa."
/
"David, how are you today?" Zach smiled as he approached the man.
The doctor gave a curt nod. "I'm good, Slater. It's my daughter's wedding day, and I've never seen her happier. She's found the perfect partner in Bianca."
"You have argument from me on that. They're good together and deserve this happiness that they've found." Zach noticed David's eyes follow first Tad then Ryan then Adam. He could see the wheels turning in the doctor's head as he eyed just a few of his many enemies. "I would hate for anything to take away from their day."
David's gaze snapped back to Zach as he took in the subtle hint. He held up his hands in surrender. "I'm not going to cause any trouble. I gave Marissa my word. If anything happens today and I hope that it doesn't, it won't be because of me. I'm just here to witness my daughter's wedding."
"I'm very glad to hear that. I know they will be too."
"If you'll excuse me, I see someone I need to talk to."
Zach nodded as David walked away. Despite what the doctor had said, Zach would still keep an eye on him.
/
"Judge Kagan, it's good to see you. You remember my wife, Dr. Angela Hubbard?"
"Of course I do. It's nice to see you again, Angie. This is my husband Aaron."
"Sonya, a pleasure as always. Aaron, it's nice to meet you."
"Likewise, Angie. Jessie."
"Aaron. I'm told by some of my officers that you had some excitement over at your place this morning. I trust that the two of you are okay?"
Sonya Kagan nodded. "That we did, and we're fine. Your officers took very good care of us."
Angie turned to her husband. "What happened?"
"The Kagans had an intruder."
"What?"
"A woman claiming to be a reporter trespassed onto our property. It seems she was under the impression that this wedding was happening over at our place. She had a run-in with my husband and then landed in something that our horses had left behind."
Angie laughed and would've sworn she'd seen a twinkle in the judge's eyes as she related what had occurred earlier. "Who was the reporter?"
"Carmen Navarro."
"Isn't she the …"
Jesse nodded. "Yeah, that's her. After today's stunt, she won't be bothering anyone for a while. In addition to what happened at the Kagans', there was evidence found in the woods here indicating she violated the restraining order Bianca and Marissa had filed against her."
/
"How are they doing, Jack?" Tad offered his hand to the lawyer and the men shook.
"Ah, there are two young women inside who are extremely eager to get this show on the road."
"So, they're not nervous?" Scott asked.
"Not in the least bit. They are chomping at the bit and can't wait to be married. They are so excited and happy. I think 'over the moon' would be a pretty good way to describe them both."
Caleb turned to Tad. "What's the latest on Junior?"
"He's no threat for today and is still out west. Zach has things under control in the way of security here though, just in case."
"It looks like Hayward is on that list of potential threats." Caleb noted the doctor walking away from Zach who was wearing his trademark smirk.
Jack nodded. "Kendall said that Marissa asked Zach to keep an eye on him. She said that while Hayward had promised to behave himself today that she didn't want to take any chances."
"She's hedging her bets. That's one very smart young woman we have working for us."
/
"Do you know where they got the idea for their invitations? They were unique. I liked them."
Lisa shook her head. "I'm not sure, Madison, but I'm pretty sure there's some personal meaning behind its design."
"Why do you think that?" Amanda asked.
"Well for one, the tree on it looks just like the ones they have around their pond, and for another reason, the tree had their initials carved into it. It seems obvious to me. I loved them, and they really fit Bianca and Marissa."
/
"Hey, Sam, are you ready?"
The teen looked up and saw Aya. "Yeah, I am. What about you?"
"Yes, I am."
Kate, Aya's girlfriend, smiled. "She's been practicing all morning. I finally convinced her to take a break. Her vocal chords needed it."
Carol chuckled. "Sam's been doing the same thing with the guitar. We finally got her to put it down."
"I just want it to be perfect for them. I mean, they've done so much for me. This is their wedding, and I don't want to mess it up."
"You won't, Sam. All Bianca and Marissa want is for you to do your best. You do that, and there's no way you'll mess anything up. They believe you can do this and so do we." Gail smiled.
Sam relaxed at the encouraging words. "We're gonna do great, Aya."
"Definitely!"
Jan saw the kids walking into the backyard with Susan. "Oh, there are the kids. I think it's time to take our seats. Good luck you two."
/
AJ, Miranda and Gabby walked with Susan through the backyard. They smiled and waved to everyone they passed on their way to the garden, their starting position for the wedding. Susan attached the wedding rings to the pillow and handed it back to AJ who held it carefully while keeping a close eye on the rings.
/
With the appearance of AJ, Miranda and Gabby, guests began taking their seats suspecting the ceremony was close at hand. This suspicion was confirmed when Erica and Krystal appeared. Both women were smiling as they greeted guests on the way to their seats.
Sam and Aya took their seats in the two chairs near the DJ station. Aya took a microphone from the DJ while Sam picked up her guitar.
/
Kendall and Greenlee met briefly in the family room.
"How's Bianca?"
"Ready to go. I don't know that I've ever seen her this excited. What about Red?"
"The same. She's not nervous at all. She just wants this all to start."
"I think we've had them wait long enough. I'll get Bianca and head outside."
"Sounds good. I'll wait a couple of minutes before I bring Marissa out. See you in a few."
/
Kendall walked down the hallway and opened the door. She couldn't hold back her smile when she found her sister in front of a mirror doing a last minute check of her hair and makeup.
"You know that you shouldn't mess with perfection."
Bianca glanced up and rolled her eyes. "Well, we both know that I'm far from perfect."
"There's a certain redhead that would argue that point from here until the end of time."
"She's a little biased."
"No, she's a lot biased. Speaking of that certain redhead, are you ready, Binx?"
Bianca nodded happily at Kendall. "I'm more than ready!"
"Alright then, it's time."
Bianca straightened up and grabbed her bouquet. With a brilliant smile on her face, she took her sister's hand. "Let's go!"
Kendall laughed as her sister pulled her down the hallway and into the family room.
"Hey, Greenlee, see you outside."
Greenlee shook her head seeing the excitement in Bianca's eyes. Kendall was right. She couldn't recall a time when Bianca was this excited. She chuckled knowing that an equally excited woman was downstairs, and that it was time to get her.
/
Marissa checked her makeup and hair one final time as she waited for the all clear and could head outside to meet her bride. Hearing the door open, she glanced up and saw Greenlee.
The smaller woman smiled. "You look beautiful, and Bianca will be speechless, which is really something for a Kane woman."
"I don't know about me leaving her speechless."
"How about tongue tied? I think you'll do that. Okay, she and Kendall just went outside. Are you ready, Marissa?"
Marissa beamed as she looked at Greenlee. "Oh yeah, most definitely! It feels like I've been waiting a lifetime for this day. Let's go!" Marissa retrieved her bouquet and headed towards the stairs. She turned back to Greenlee. "Are you coming?"
Greenlee laughed. "Oh yeah, I wouldn't miss this for the world."
/
Reverend McSherry took her place in front of those assembled to witness this event. She smiled and nodded to the DJ who started playing the song indicating the start of the ceremony.
Erica turned around in her seat facing the back and nodded to Susan who started the kids on their way down the aisle.
The Tasker-Montgomery children walked down the aisle next to each other with AJ and Gabby flanking Miranda. AJ held the ring bearer's pillow carefully as he concentrated on making sure the rings stayed in place. The boy glanced up every once in a while and smiled remembering his Moms telling him to do so. Miranda walked slowly as she kept in time with the music and her brother and sister kept pace with her. A confident smile was on Miranda's face as she held her bouquet which was a smaller version of the ones her Moms carried. Gabby smiled brightly as she sprinkled the multi-colored rose petals from her basket. She was nothing short of charming, and the crowd was putty in her small hands. AJ sighed in relief as they reached the end of the aisle, and the rings were still attached.
/
Kendall gave her sister a quick hug before beginning her march. On the other side of the house, Greenlee gave Marissa a wink before leaving her spot.
The friends smiled as they met by the kids as the song ended. Reverend McSherry nodded to Erica and Krystal who stood and the other guests followed suit. Sam began to strum her guitar as Aya began singing 'I Will' by Paul McCartney.
/
Bianca and Marissa took deep breaths and began walking. When hazel eyes locked with warm chocolate, the breath of both women hitched. They knew in that instant that neither had seen anyone more beautiful in their lives. Both were beaming as they walked towards each other, their gazes never wavering.
And when at last I find you
Your song will fill the air
Sing it loud so I can hear you
Make it easy to be near you
For the things you do endear you to me
Oh, you know, I will
I will.
The song finished as they reached each other.
"Hey."
"Hey, yourself."
"You look absolutely stunning."
"You are simply breathtaking."
/
Reverend McSherry chuckled softly at the couple. The depth of their love never ceased to amaze her, and she was overjoyed that she was able to take part in their special day. A second nod was given to Erica indicating for everyone to be seated. The diva sat, and the other guests followed suit. After clearing her throat, the reverend began.
"Good afternoon and welcome! Friends, we have been invited here today to share with Bianca and Marissa a very important moment in their lives. Today is a celebration of their love. In the years they have been together, their love and understanding of each other has grown and matured and now they have decided to live their lives together as a married couple. I don't know about any of you, but I couldn't be happier for them, and I don't know of two people who deserve happiness more than they do.
I have known Marissa since she moved to Pine Valley and became a member of our church. I've gotten to know her over the years and consider her a good friend. During this time, we've had many enjoyable and challenging conversations, and I've learned that Marissa has this great thirst for knowledge and this even greater capacity to help and care for others. Her being a lawyer is a perfect fit. She has provided free legal advice to many members in need and is quite good from what I'm told."
"She's a brilliant lawyer." Bianca beamed proudly while Marissa blushed slightly.
The crowd laughed along with the minister, not surprised by Bianca's pride in Marissa's legal skills.
"I stand corrected. She's a brilliant lawyer. Marissa is very smart and funny, more importantly though, she is kind and generous. There isn't much that she wouldn't do for those that she loves. This is especially true when it comes to the four most important people in her life, Bianca and their children. I know that all of you will be shocked by this, but she brags constantly about AJ, Miranda and Gabby." The minister smiled at the three children in question. "Your Ma is very proud of you and loves you all very much. One of the happiest and proudest days of her life was when the three of you came to her and Bianca and asked if it was alright if you could call them 'Ma' and 'Mom'. It was the same for Bianca too."
AJ, Miranda and Gabby sported matching grins. They were thrilled that they had made their Moms so happy.
"One of the things I admire most about Marissa is that she doesn't give up. The challenging conversations that I mentioned earlier are a good indication of this. Things haven't always been easy for her. Some people would throw up their hands and complain to any and every one and just simply give up. It would make them less apt or willing to help anybody else, make them bitter or cold. That's not the case with her. It's made her more caring and giving, more willing to help others, more compassionate. She still sees the good in life and in people. That's pretty remarkable. Speaking of remarkable people, let's talk about Bianca."
"One of my favorite subjects!" Marissa grinned, earning laughs from the guests and a happy sigh from the woman in question.
"I didn't know her before Marissa. I knew of her and of the many wonderful things that she had done in Pine Valley. You'd have to be living under a rock not to know about any of that. I wasn't really surprised when I found out that she and Marissa were best friends given what I knew about Marissa and what I'd heard about Bianca. Through Marissa, I came to know Bianca. And what can I say? I'm a huge fan. Everything that Marissa had told me and continues to tell me about her is true. And trust me, she's told me a lot. If you think she brags about the kids, it's nothing compared to what she says about Bianca and vice versa. Bianca gushes about Marissa just as much. I think the 'brilliant lawyer' comment made earlier speaks for itself."
Again, the crowd laughed. They knew exactly what the minister was talking about and enjoyed seeing the embarrassed looks on the couple's faces.
"Like Marissa, life has not always been easy for Bianca. She has this light about her though. It's the only way I can describe it. She sees the good in others when no one else can. The amount of lives that she has changed and saved through the Miranda Center is immeasurable, and I'm not just talking about here in Pine Valley. Other centers have opened throughout the country and continue the amazing works that she started here. When I met her and she found out I was a minister, she knew of my church, and it wasn't only through Marissa. She knew of my church's outreach program and that we were struggling a bit with it. Bianca immediately stepped in and volunteered funds, staff and time. I hadn't asked. In fact, I didn't have the time to ask. Before I even formed the question of why, Marissa told me it wasn't because of her or their friendship. It was because she was Bianca and that's just what she did. She helps people, and it's not something she does for fame or glory or awards or recognition of any type for that matter. It's just something she does because it's simply who she is. Having the opportunity of working with and getting to know her on a personal level, I knew Marissa was right."
Reverend McSherry saw many nods of agreement in the crowd and continued. "I was able to see her compassion, her kindness, her caring and her humanity, and they are boundless. This does not mean that she is a pushover though. If someone does something to a member of her family or anyone that she cares about, watch out. If you've ever seen what Marissa calls 'the Kane death glare', you know what I'm talking about."
Erica and her daughters simply grinned while others chuckled. Many of those in attendance had seen that look from at least one of the three over the years and knew precisely what the minister was talking about. For Marissa, hazel eyes sparked with mischief and other thoughts about the glare when she saw Bianca give it. Seeing the look on Marissa's face, Bianca chuckled and shook her head before mouthing 'behave'.
"When I saw Bianca and Marissa together, there was no denying how close they were. They were best friends in every sense of the word. They seemed to know when the other was hurting without being told. They helped each other through painful times in their lives, somehow knowing just the right words to help the other. This was done without thought or question. I have to admit that I didn't see the change in their relationship at first. To me, they were simply being themselves. Others, however, did see it and thought they should do something about it to encourage them to realize that the person they had been looking for to share their lives with was in fact right next to them."
Kendall and Krystal shared a quick glance at each other while Greenlee smirked.
"I say right next to them because that's exactly what it was. In the time that I have known them, they have always stood beside each other, giving the other the support they need. Sometimes, it was silent. Other times, it was more vocal. I think you can figure out which one does which more."
"Bianca does love a good debate." Marissa chuckled and was quickly joined by others. They all knew the reverse was true and that Marissa loved nothing more than a good verbal altercation. A small group knew that she wasn't above a good physical altercation should the need arise, and neither was Bianca for that matter.
Bianca laughed at her soon-to-be wife's tease. "It's a good thing you're not under oath, Counselor."
The minister joined the others laughing at the couple's exchange. "Once Marissa and Bianca realized how they truly felt about each other and found the courage to express those feelings, there has been no going back for either woman. When Marissa told me about their relationship changing and becoming romantic, I was only a little surprised. That surprise came from them being such good friends. When I thought about it though, it made perfect sense to me. Their personalities complement each other so well, and they just fit. They are able to see beyond what's just on the outside. To them, love is simply love, and I don't know two people who deserve it more than the women before you right now. I've seen the love they share grow each day, and it is that love that brings us to today's happy occasion. Who supports this couple in their marriage?"
Everyone assembled answered as one. "I do."
The reverend nodded. "Ladies, it is time to state your intentions. Would you please join hands?"
Bianca was still smiling as she handed her bouquet to Kendall while Marissa with a smile that had never left her face either handed her's to Greenlee. When the couple turned back to each other, they joined hands.
"Do you, Bianca, take this woman to be your wedded wife?"
"Yes, I do." Bianca beamed happily, answering the question so quickly that that minister had barely finished asking it.
"Do you, Marissa, take this woman to be your wedded wife?"
"Oh yeah, I do." A radiant smile broke across Marissa's face.
Reverend McSherry addressed the guests who were chuckling at the excitement the women were showing. "The vows Bianca and Marissa have chosen are blend of traditional vows and their own. Bianca, would you begin?"
In a clear and confident voice, Bianca began. She had committed the words to memory and needed no prompting from the reverend.
"I, Bianca, take you, Marissa to be my friend, my lover, the mother of my children, to be my wife, my partner in life and my one true love. I will be yours in times of plenty and in times of want, in times of sickness and in times of health, in times of joy and in times of sorrow, in times of failure and in times of triumph. I promise to care for and to protect you, to comfort and encourage you. I will cherish our union and love you more each day than I did the day before. I will trust you and respect you, laugh with you and cry with you, loving you faithfully through good times and bad, regardless of the obstacles we may face together. I give you my hand, my heart and my love, from this day forward and promise to stay with you, for all eternity."
Marissa took a deep began to recite the vows she had memorized just as Bianca had, her voice equally clear and confident.
"I, Marissa, take you, Bianca, to be my friend, my lover, the mother of my children, to be my wife, my partner in life and my one true love. I will be yours in times of plenty and in times of want, in times of sickness and in times of health, in times of joy and in times of sorrow, in times of failure and in times of triumph. I promise to care for and to protect you, to comfort and encourage you. I will cherish our union and love you more each day than I did the day before. I will trust you and respect you, laugh with you and cry with you, loving you faithfully through good times and bad, regardless of the obstacles we may face together. I give you my hand, my heart and my love, from this day forward and promise to stay with you, for all eternity."
Both women were beaming, and their eyes never left the others.
"May I have the rings?"
AJ presented the ring bearer's pillow to the reverend. She gave him a quick wink and untied the rings.
Marissa started first this time. She took Bianca's wedding band from the reverend and placed it on the ring finger of Bianca's left hand.
"Bianca, I give you this ring to wear with love and joy. As a ring has no end, neither shall my love for you. I choose you to be my wife this day and forevermore."
Bianca took Marissa's wedding band from the reverend and placed it on the ring finger of Marissa's left hand.
"Marissa, I give you this ring to wear with love and joy. As a ring has no end, neither shall my love for you. I choose you to be my wife this day and forevermore."
"By the power vested in me by the State of Pennsylvania, I now pronounce you married. You may now kiss."
Neither woman needed to be told twice. They had been waiting for this moment all day. Their lips met for the perfect kiss. It was not too long but not too short, not too chaste but not too passionate, not too soft but not too rough. It was just right. It was perfect and conveyed their feelings not only for each other but for all who were there bearing witness to their special day.
Reverend McSherry smiled brightly and spoke again once the couple had separated. "Ladies and gentlemen, it is most definitely my pleasure to introduce to you for the first time, Bianca and Marissa Tasker-Montgomery!"
The crowd erupted as the couple turned and faced them with what could only be described as blinding smiles. Bianca and Marissa shared another loving kiss before hugging AJ, Miranda and Gabby. They retrieved their bouquets from Kendall and Greenlee as the DJ cued up the song they had chosen as their recessional, 'This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)' by Natalie Cole. Taking each other's hands again, they headed down the aisle. Their happiness coupled with the song's beat had them swaying in time with it as they walked.
This will be an everlasting love.
This will be the one I've waited for.
This will be the first time anyone has loved me.
I'm so glad you found me in time.
And I'm so glad that you rectified my mind.
This will be an everlasting love for me.
When they were halfway down the aisle, Kendall and Greenlee whispered to the kids to begin their walk. They were grinning from ear to ear and waved to the crowd as they headed towards the garden where their mothers would be waiting.
Loving you is some kind of wonderful
Because you showed me just how much you care.
You've given me the thrill of a lifetime.
And made me believe you've got more thrills to spare, oh!
This will be an everlasting love
Oh, yes it will now!
Kendall and Greenlee followed closely behind AJ, Miranda and Gabby. The friends were laughing at the five that had preceded them down the aisle as well as the wedding guests. The newly married couple's joy was infectious, and they were all clapping, dancing and even singing along with the song.
You brought a lot of sunshine in to my life.
You filled me with happiness I never knew.
You gave me more joy then I ever dreamed of.
And no one, no one can take the place of you
/
When they reached the garden, Bianca pulled Marissa to her and kissed her fervently.
"Not that I'm complaining, but what was that for, Mrs. Tasker-Montgomery?" Marissa teased, loving how wonderful that felt to say.
Bianca grinned, loving being called by her new name. "What? I'm not allowed to kiss my wife?"
A brilliant smile formed on the redhead's face. "Oh no, you can kiss me as often as you'd like, anytime, anywhere!"
"It will be my pleasure, Mrs. Tasker-Montgomery."
"Oh, I do love how that sounds!"
"That makes two of us! I love you."
"I you love too."
Their lips met yet again as they enjoyed the brief moment of time they would have alone until sometime later that evening after they departed to spend the night in a suite at the Yacht Club. They had originally thought about staying at home their first night as a married couple but made a change of plans when they realized that workers would be back early tomorrow to begin cleaning up and hauling away the temporary floor, bar and DJ stand along with all of the tables and chairs. The caterers would also be there late tonight packing up everything they had brought. All of that activity didn't allow for much private time for the newly married couple, and they really wanted to be alone to celebrate. The kiss they were now sharing was but a promise of the private celebration to come later.
/
A/N: I don't own the songs mentioned in this chapter. 'This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)' is owned by Natalie Cole and 'I Will' by Paul McCartney. You've got to like Google. It helped a great deal with this chapter and helped me find a lot of things. The vows are a mix of things I found online with some of my own thoughts added in. The wedding invitation mentioned was one I stumbled upon during my research. When I saw it, I had to use it given the original Minx storyline and the mention of a tree with initials carved into it. If you're curious as to what it would like, do a search on wedding invitations and go to the site called Zazzle. Okay, I've got snow to shovel. The area was hit several inches of the white stuff yesterday along with sleet and freezing rain, and the driveway needs to be cleared. After that, I've got to finish decorating my Christmas tree. Oh, I'm sure I'll get some writing done too. The wedding reception will follow in the next chapter. See you soon!