A/N: Okay! Now, it's Saturday and time for my regular update! Thanks for reading, reviewing and following! It's truly appreciated! There are a few things to go over before we start. I mention a song in this chapter. I don't own it. I just like it and thought it fit for our girls. There is some rough language in a section of this chapter. I didn't like writing it, but felt it was something this person would say at this point in time when they feel they don't really have a lot left to lose. Finally, some of you sent me some ideas for this not too little story. Thank you! I had a couple of them in mind but not some others. That, of course, got my grey matter going some. I'll give you a shout out when I get to them. Now, this chapter picks up where the last one left off. Hope you enjoy this update!
/
Photographers were vying for the couple's attention and shouting for them to look their way to get a 'money' shot. Given that she was more well known, most were shouting for Bianca.
"Ms. Tasker, look this way!"
"Ms. Montgomery!"
"Bianca Montgomery!"
"Over here, Bianca!"
Bianca paused briefly. "It's Bianca Tasker-Montgomery tonight. This evening is all about my brilliant wife and the firm."
Marissa grinned and gave her wife a quick kiss. "Am I lucky or what?"
Flashes exploded in a blinding frenzy before the couple was able to head inside. As the spots finally faded, they heard more shouts from their vantage point. The couple glanced at each other knowing it could only mean one thing. Erica Kane had arrived.
"Erica! Erica! Over here, Erica!"
"Who are you wearing?"
"You look stunning, Erica!"
"How do you do it? What's your secret to staying so young and beautiful?"
Marissa chuckled. "It's more like a Hollywood premiere than a law firm's anniversary."
"It's my Mom. That tends to happen no matter where we go."
"Well, you are talking about the one and only Erica Kane, who also happens to be the most beautiful woman in the world, not counting present company of course." Jack added smoothly. He had made a discreet exit after escorting Erica to the main entrance of the club, leaving her to bask in the adoration of her fans and photographers. The feeding frenzy that always occurred when they attended public functions was not his particular cup of tea. Erica, on the other hand, loved it. So over the years, they came to a compromise. He would stay for a few pictures with her before exiting. Erica remained until she had her fill of the attention.
"Nice save, Jack." Marissa smirked.
"Given all of the beautiful women in my life, I've had to learn to be fast on my feet. You both do look exceptionally beautiful this evening. Marissa, you really are glowing."
"Hi, Uncle Jack. You look rather dashing yourself. Maybe Rissa will believe you about her glowing. I've told her that a few times already, but she's not it coming from me."
Jack smiled at his niece. "Hi, Princess, or should I say Mrs. Tasker-Montgomery?"
"You caught that, huh? Good. I wanted to make it clear that tonight is all about her and not me. I'm just here to support her and provide arm candy of course."
Marissa and Jack burst out laughing at the brunette's quip and mischievous grin.
"Babe, you are so much more than arm candy, although you are absolutely killing it in that role. Everyone will be jealous of me to have such a gorgeous woman by my side."
"I agree, on both counts." Jack nodded.
"Thank you all. You are much too kind. Now if you'll excuse me, I must get inside. As my daughter stated earlier, tonight is about celebrating the anniversary of Pine Valley's premiere law firm and my daughter-in-law being made partner. I know I speak for my entire family when I say we couldn't be more proud of and more thrilled for Marissa."
Flashes and questions continued, but Erica paid them no mind. She was done with them for now. The diva was greeted inside by Jack and a beaming Bianca and Marissa.
"Thank you, Erica."
"You are than welcome, Marissa dear."
"Thanks, Mom. That was very sweet of you."
"You're welcome, sweetheart. I've been known to have my moments. Besides, I meant every word."
Marissa knew her mother-in-law well enough to know that she was done with the subject and wanted to drop it. "Erica, wow, you look amazing."
"Thank you, dear. Vera made this for me. I do love her work. Might I say that the two of you look marvelous. Are those dresses new?"
"Yes, Rissa and I went shopping the other week at this wonderful boutique on Mifflin."
"Oh, I believe I've heard of it. It just opened, didn't it?"
"Yes, it's been open about a month."
"If these are examples of what they have there, I might just have to investigate it."
"Your patronage would definitely be a boon for them. Bianca and I saw a few things we think you might like."
"Rissa's right, Mom. They would love to have you there."
"I'll definitely keep them in mind then. Marissa dear, you are positively glowing tonight." Erica noted as she reached for Jack's arm. "Let's not keep everyone waiting, shall we?"
Marissa stood there dumbfounded by her mother-in-law's compliment while Bianca gave her wife a quick peck and pulled her close so they could follow the others inside the main hall.
"Told ya!"
/
Once inside, the firm's partners and their significant others met up and introductions were made. This was the first time the other two partners, Bryce Stevens and Geoff Thompson, and their wives had met Bianca, and more importantly, the first time said wives had met Marissa even though they had been told a great deal about the couple. Had Marissa been made partner prior to the wedding, the others would have been invited, and they would've met there. That wasn't the case, however, and this celebration was the first opportunity for everyone to meet.
Caleb was attending tonight's festivities with Liza, and he was smiling like a proud father as the others complimented Marissa. He, more so than Jack, had taken the redhead under his wing and served as her mentor in her early days at the firm. Caleb had seen something, a fire, in the redhead and had a feeling she would do wonderful things. Marissa had proven him right. She was a valuable asset to the firm and represented them well. Plus, she paid forward to others the help and guidance she had received. Caleb also had a soft spot in his heart for Bianca and was more than pleased that she and Marissa had found well-deserved happiness together.
"I hear that the two of you are newlyweds." Lynn Thompson noted.
"Yes, we are. It's been almost two months." Bianca answered happily.
Martha Stevens sighed wistfully. "I remember that time although it's been quite a few years."
"You will always be my bride." Bryce Stevens replied as he kissed his wife's hand.
Caleb chuckled. "Nice save."
Bryce whispered back. "Tell me about it."
"You have three children?" Lynn asked.
Marissa smiled and placed a protective hand on her small bump. "Technically, 3 ½. Two from Bianca, one from my first marriage and now, our little one."
Lynn and Martha eyed their husbands. Both had obviously failed to pass this piece of information on.
"Congratulations! When are you due?"
"Right now, the doctor says March 30th."
"Ah yes, that date could move on you. Do you know if you're having a boy or a girl?"
"Bianca and I want to wait to find out. We'll get our first look when we go in for a sonogram in two weeks."
"We were able to hear the heartbeat during our last visit and had the nurse record it for us. We're going to do the same thing with the sonogram." Bianca added beaming.
"You're able to do that now? I wish we would've been able to do that, but it's been a few years." Geoff looked at his wife.
Lynn nodded. "Yes, it has. I don't suppose you have pictures of your three."
Bianca grinned and pulled out some school pictures of the kids. "Of course I do! Do you have any pictures you want to share?"
"As a matter of fact, I do! Our oldest is graduating from high school next year and our youngest is right behind her."
"I believe we've got you beat. Go ahead, Martha. I know you're itching to show them pictures of our granddaughter."
The woman rolled her eyes but was already reaching for her pictures. Everyone exchanged photos and compliments.
"I hear excellent things about you, Marissa. I'm glad Bryce and the other boys have finally seen the light, and you were able to shatter the glass ceiling there."
Caleb nodded. "I couldn't agree with you more, Martha. Marissa is more than up to the task of handling the work as well as all of us."
"And you all are quite the handful." Liza smirked.
It was at this time that Evelyn Foster, the owner of the Yacht Club approached the group. She knew that at the moment only the firm's partners were there and other guests would be arriving soon. She was on her way out when a member of her staff had informed her of the arrival of two special people, and she wanted to say a quick hello while she had the chance.
"Excuse me for me interrupting. I just wanted to say hello to these two lovely, young women."
Bianca smiled and hugged the older woman. "Evelyn, it's good to see you."
"It is, but why are you still here? I thought you were cutting back on your hours." Marissa scolded playfully as she hugged the other woman as well.
Evelyn chuckled. "I'm on my way home, and I'll have you know that I have cut back quite a lot. My daughter has picked up many of my responsibilities, but I still like to stay involved. We know what happened the last time I didn't."
The couple nodded. "Yes, we do."
"Besides, I heard who was going to be here tonight so I stuck around hoping I would get a chance to see you. I'm so sorry I missed your wedding."
"We are too, but we're just happy you're feeling better."
"Thank you. I hear congratulations are in order on two fronts."
Bianca smiled. "You've heard correctly. Marissa had been made partner, and we're expecting."
"That's wonderful news. I'm so happy for both of you. While I miss working with both of you on the planning of the Center's fundraiser, you should know that Jan and Aya are doing a very good job in your stead. This year's event is shaping up to be something quite special."
A young man approached. "Mrs. Foster, your driver's here."
"Thank you, Steven." Evelyn turned to the group. "This is Steven. If there is anything you need that hasn't been taken care of yet, please let him know, and he'll see to it. Enjoy your evening. Bianca, Marissa, I hope to see you soon."
"Good night, Evelyn."
"Thank you for everything."
After Evelyn left, Geoff glanced at the couple impressed. "You know the owner?"
Marissa nodded. "Yes, Bianca has had the annual fundraiser for the Miranda Center here for the last two years. Mrs. Foster has been gracious enough to donate the facilities."
"Something that Marissa is responsible for." Jack added before Bianca could.
Lynn finally remembered why Bianca's name was so familiar to her other than being Erica's daughter. "You founded the Miranda Center. Could we talk sometime tonight? I've heard very good things about the Center and would love to know more about it, maybe even volunteer some time."
"I'll be happy to talk with you, and we are always happy for volunteers."
/
Ellie walked into the main hall with her parents. She knew that most of the other guests had dates, but since she wasn't seeing anyone at the time, Ellie asked her parents if they would like to come. It wasn't often they were treated to a night out like this so they happily accepted. Their only concern had been the number of people she would be bringing. Ellie assured them she had cleared it with Marissa first, and that her boss was more than on board with the idea. After everything they had been through, Marissa knew it would be impossible for the secretary to choose only one of them to accompany her so the redhead was definitely okay with both of them coming.
Tom and Rhonda Parker took in the crowded room and shook their heads in awe as they noted some of the high profile guests in attendance.
Rhonda grabbed her daughter's arm. "Is that Erica Kane?"
Ellie nodded. "Yes, it is. She's engaged to Mr. Montgomery and is Marissa's mother-in-law." While the young woman knew Erica and the diva had never done anything to her, she still found her intimidating as most people did. Ellie scanned the room. "I don't see either Marissa or Bianca, but I know they're here. I think you're really going to like them."
"If they are anything like you've said, then I'm sure we will." Tom reassured. He knew his daughter was anxious for them to meet her boss. Truth be told, they were anxious too. They were grateful she had seen the potential they had always known their daughter possessed.
"Hey, Ellie. You look great."
"So do you, Lisa."
"This is Jimmy Roberts. Jimmy, this is Ellie Parker."
"It's nice to meet you."
"It's nice to meet you too. These are my parents Tom and Rhonda."
Pleasantries were exchanged, and they were soon joined by the others from Marissa's team.
"Has anyone seen Marissa?" Sofia asked.
"Not yet. I'm not surprised though. There are a ton of people here." Brian noted.
"Oh, I see her." Stef pointed out the redhead. "She's over there talking to the governor."
"You can tell they're already working their magic on him. The man doesn't stand a chance against their charm." Brandon cracked.
"Well, this looks like a group that can be up to no good." Kendall smirked.
"If that's not the pot calling the kettle black, I don't know what is." Stef volleyed back. "To those of you who haven't had the pleasure, Kendall and Zach Slater."
"Otherwise known as the in-laws of the woman of the hour." Zach interjected.
"Exactly! This is everyone associated with your sister-in-law's team." Introductions were then made in full.
"I know this is a couple of months away … wait. Jimmy?! Oh my god, I just made the connection. It's good to see you again."
"Good to see you again too, Kendall, Zach." Jimmy grinned. "Will your partner in crime be here tonight too?"
Kendall laughed. "Yes, Greenlee will be here."
Zach nodded. "Jimmy, thanks again for taking care of them and getting them home safely. I'm sure you had your hands full."
"My pleasure, and they weren't any trouble. It was definitely a highlight for me though."
"Any way." Kendall continued, not wanting to revisit the events that happened in Shamokin in mixed company. "Greenlee and I are planning a baby shower for Marissa, Bianca and Sparky. It will be at the end of February so keep your calendars clear."
Lisa raised an eyebrow. "Sparky? Who's Sparky?"
"That's my nickname for my future niece or nephew." Kendall smirked.
"That is too good. I love it." Stef laughed.
"I thought so. Uh oh, Zach, Mom's giving me the eye."
"That's definitely our cue then."
"Yes, it is. Nice meeting all of you. I'm sure we'll run into each other again tonight."
"So, Jimmy, what was that about before?" Brandon queried.
"I got it! I remember where I've seen you before. Stef has a picture of you with everyone that went out for Bianca and Marissa's bachelorette party. Spill it. What happened? No matter what I've tried, I haven't been able to break Stef."
"And you never will." Stef added with a smile.
Jimmy cleared his throat under the mild glares of Lisa and Stef. He and the lawyer had started dating a few weeks after that weekend. Jimmy was absolutely crazy about her, and there was no way he was going to say anything that would make her upset. Besides that, he had been sworn to secrecy by all of the women he drove that night. "Sorry, Brian. I have to claim chauffer/client privilege."
Lisa patted his arm and gave him a quick peck on his cheek. "Excellent answer."
/
A short while later, Marissa and Bianca made their way over to where the redhead's team was gathered.
"Wow, for a motley group, you all clean up very nicely." Marissa smirked.
"Marissa! Bianca!"
"We're just trying to live up to your expectations, boss." Lisa quipped.
Marissa rolled her eyes. "Are you all having a good time?"
"Definitely! The firm went all out tonight. I felt like a celebrity walking in." Claudia joked.
"So did I. It was very nice." Sofia added.
"Hey, Jimmy. How are you?" Marissa greeted her one-time driver.
Bianca and Marissa did a double-take.
"Jimmy?!"
"Hi, Bianca. Hi, Marissa. Good to see the both of you. Don't worry. I've already invoked chauffer/client privilege."
Bianca laughed. "It seems I'm not the only non-lawyer picking up on the legalese."
"I guess not." Marissa motioned between Jimmy and Lisa. "So, how long has this been going on? I have to make sure Lisa is being taken care of properly."
Lisa blushed. "We started dating a couple of weeks after that weekend."
"Wow. I think that's the first time I've ever seen you blush."
"I do believe you're right, Marissa. I'm marking this day down." Brian smirked before receiving smacks on both arms, one from his wife and the other from Lisa. "Ow! What the heck?!"
"Be nice." Stef playfully scolded.
"She always starts it!"
"Great. I guess this is what I have to look forward to when Jamie gets older."
Bianca laughed. "Yes, and it only gets worse."
"How are classes going, Jimmy?"
"How do you know about his classes, Marissa?" Lisa was surprised her boss knew about him going to college. Her boyfriend worked as a driver to supplement his income to pay for continuing his education. Jimmy had an entry level position at Cortlandt in their IT department and was working on completing his master's degree.
"As the only two people not drinking that night, Jimmy and I bonded."
"Yes, we did. The classes are going well. Congratulations on being made partner and on the baby. I have to say that a lot of things made sense after Lisa told me you were expecting."
"I suppose they would." Marissa turned to the Parkers and held out her hand. "You must be Ellie's parents. I'm Marissa Tasker-Montgomery."
"Oh, sorry. I didn't want to interrupt. Mom, Dad, this is Marissa and Bianca Tasker-Montgomery. Marissa, Bianca, this is my Mom and Dad, Rhonda and Tom Parker."
The couples shook each other's hands.
"It's nice to finally meet you. Ellie's told me all about you which I've passed on to Bianca. You should be very proud of her. I don't know what I would do without her."
"Marissa's right. She's always been pretty organized, but now with Ellie, she's even better. Ellie's also taking charge of setting up Marissa's new office. I know she appreciates it, but I think I might appreciate it even more. It's one less thing for her to worry about right now."
Rhonda smiled proudly. "Thank you. I can't tell you how much, as a parent, that means to hear. I guess we did something right, Tom."
"I guess so. She's told us a lot about both of you. Rhonda and I can't tell you how grateful we are to you for giving her this opportunity."
Marissa shook her head. "Ellie earned this. I wouldn't have hired her if she wasn't qualified. Ellie, cover your ears. I don't want this going to your head. Your daughter was far and away the most qualified for the position. There were some that applied that have been with the firm for years who I didn't feel were as qualified as her. Ellie was also the right fit for our team. She's able to keep us all in line, and some of them can be quite a handful if you haven't guessed."
Ellie blushed. "Thanks, Marissa. I owe a lot to Lisa for convincing me to go ahead and apply."
"What can I say? I just have an eye for talent."
/
As the social hour continued, the couple continued to make the rounds and found themselves running into the Buchanan clan.
"Good evening, Bianca."
The brunette glanced up quickly and smiled brightly. "Viki! It is so good to see you! I'd like to introduce you to my wife Marissa. Rissa, this is Viki, Clint, Bo and Nora Buchanan."
Marissa smiled and greeted the visitors from Llanview. "It's so nice to finally meet all of you. I'm glad you could make it tonight and hope you're having a good time."
Viki nodded. "It's nice to finally meet you as well. Bianca has told us all a great deal about you. We are definitely having a good time. Your firm has done a wonderful job with everything here."
"That's good to hear. You should probably only believe about half of what Bianca has told you about me. She's a little biased."
Bianca rolled her eyes. "All of you are settled in your rooms?"
"We are and thank you for arranging them for us although you didn't have to." Nora added.
"Rissa and I didn't want you to worry about driving back tonight. This way you can stay as long as you want."
"Well, we appreciate it. My only problem is that I saw we're seated with the governor. I know he's going to talk my ear off all night while he's also hitting me up for a sizeable contribution to his reelection campaign." Clint commented wryly.
"You weren't supposed to be sitting at his table. Bianca told me that he always seems to track you down at events like this so I specifically asked he not be seated with you."
"It looks like the governor trumps you. Don't worry about it. Clint's not happy unless he has something to complain about." Bo cracked.
Bianca recognized the look in her wife's eye. Marissa wasn't going to let this go. She knew there was still time enough to make some seating changes.
"We'll see about that. There's Steven. Let me go talk to him. I'll be right back." Marissa winked at her wife and stepped away.
"Is she really going to do what I think she is?" Viki couldn't help but be amused by the prospect of the governor's plans being derailed.
"Yes, she is. You'll be moved to another table, trust me. You see, the governor may have used his clout to frighten some server to switch things up, but Marissa knows the owner. Mrs. Foster adores her and has told the staff to do anything she needs. Besides, my wife can be very persuasive."
"It must be a common trait with redheaded lawyers."
"What can I say? We're just that good." Nora smirked at her husband before turning to watch Marissa work her magic. "I like her, Bianca. I've heard a lot of good things about her besides what you've told us. She's built up quite the reputation in the legal community."
"I'm thinking she must have been successful because she's smiling." Viki nodded towards the approaching redhead.
"It's all taken care of. You're being moved to a different table. I hope you don't mind sitting with Bianca's sister and brother-in-law."
Viki smiled. "Kendall and Zach? Not at all. Both of them are charming and highly entertaining."
"You're definitely going to be entertained then because you'll also be sitting with Greenlee and Ryan Lavery."
"We are definitely in for a treat then sitting with the four of them. There's not a chance we'll be bored. I hope this wasn't too much trouble."
"None whatsoever. I just asked him to move Adam and Brooke and the Regans."
"Adam as in Adam Chandler?" Clint asked.
"Yep, he'll love it and so will the Regans. When I saw them earlier tonight, they mentioned they were hoping to talk to the governor."
"Bill Regan is here?"
"Yes, he's a client of the firm's."
"I told you she would take care of it." Bianca's pride in her wife's ability was evident for all to see.
"Hey, Marissa, while you're taking care of things, is there any way you can do something about the music? Red and I love to dance."
Marissa smiled. "So I've heard. There's nothing to worry about. There's going to be plenty of music after dinner. I'm looking forward to dancing with this one. I doubt we'll be on par with the two of you because from I've heard you're pretty good. We'll do our best though."
There was a twinkle in Bo's eyes hearing that news. "You'll both have to save me a dance, and we'll see what you've got."
Bianca nodded. "You're on."
"Nora, I was wondering if we could talk later. There's something I'd like to get your opinion on."
"I'm intrigued and would love to help. Hunt me down later, and we'll talk."
"Perhaps while they're talking, Bianca, you could give me an update on a hypothetical situation we discussed a few weeks ago."
The brunette knew exactly what Viki was talking about. She was hoping for an update on the Kirsten/Amelia situation. "We can do that."
/
Downing another shot of whiskey, Pete watched from the bar as Marissa made the rounds. He was seething inside as he watched everyone fawning over her. She didn't deserve this, any of this, and he'd had his fill.
"Bartender, let me have another one."
The lawyer had been stationed at the bar since he'd gotten there, and the bartender knew it was time to cut the man off. He couldn't put the club at risk for over-serving a guest. "I'm sorry, sir, but I need to decline to serve you anymore. I will be happy to get you some coffee or something else non-alcoholic."
Pete scoffed at the bartender and stumbled slightly before catching himself. "Whatever. I don't need you." Little did the man know that Pete had a flask in the pocket of his jacket. He made his way across the room in the direction of the redhead.
"Whoa, watch where you're walking." Brian held out an arm to prevent the man from running into Stef.
"Oh look, if it isn't 'Team Tasker'. You should enjoy your jobs while you've got them. Your boss is going down in flames. When I get done with her, all these people falling all over her won't have anything to do with her, not like she deserves their attention anyway. Her being made partner is a complete joke and everyone here knows it."
Lisa took a step forward. "What the hell are you talking about? Of course she deserves this. You are nothing but a bitter loser."
/
Marissa and Bianca had been several feet away from the redhead's team talking with Adam and Brooke when they had been pulled away by Geoff Thompson to talk with a Congresswoman. From their new position across the room, they witnessed a little of what was unfolding between members of Marissa's team and Pete.
"What do you think is going on over there?" Bianca whispered.
"I'm not sure, probably Pete going on about how he was wronged in some way."
"How did he get in anyway?"
"His parents. Judge Taylor talked to me when he got here. He said Pete convinced his mother that he would be using tonight to network and promised her that he wouldn't cause any trouble."
"You're not buying that, are you?"
"Nope, not for one minute. Jack, Caleb and the other partners said they would keep an eye on him. I have to say that Pete looks like he's had too much to drink."
"I think we should avoid him if we can." Bianca suggested.
"I think you're right. I'd probably just antagonize him more, and while he may not have a problem causing a scene here tonight, I do. I'm not going to ruin this for everyone."
/
"Hardly. She's nothing but a token. She was only made a partner because she's a minority, and it looks good for the firm. Think about it. It's good PR. You got a woman who's pregnant and is a lesbian. They hit the trifecta with her. I mean even where she got her degree is a joke. Pine Valley Law School? Really?! The instructors there are nothing but corporate rejects. She wouldn't have any made it through a semester where I went."
"Where did you go again?" Brian asked before snapping his fingers. "That's right. You went to Harvard."
Pete puffed out his chest. "Yes, I did. It's a real law school, and your boss would've flunked out."
"You mean like you almost did?"
"I don't know what the hell you're talking about. I didn't almost flunk out."
"My bad. You're right. It was a cheating scandal that had you with one foot out the door until your dad stepped in to buy your way out of it, and even then, you were near the bottom of your class. It's like you can't even cheat right." Brian knew he was pushing it, but the man pissed him off. "Marissa, on the other hand, earned her degree and graduated at the top of her class. True, the law school here may not have the same pedigree as Harvard, but she earned it all on her own and didn't need anyone buying it for her. Besides, it was good enough for her to kick your ass."
Pete saw red. He'd been careful to make sure the Harvard incident had been buried so he didn't have any idea how Brian knew about it. He wasn't going to take this lying down. "If she'd played fair, things would've turned out differently. Did she do that though? No, she used the Montgomery name because she knew she'd lose if she went up against me, a real lawyer. If it wasn't for her wife, she'd be just another dyke with a law degree from a third rate law school." Pete sneered, the venom clear in his tone.
Every member of Marissa's team took a step forward, ready to pound this poor excuse for a human being into the ground. Brian was the closest, and there was no way in hell he was going to let Pete get away with what he'd said. Looking at him made him sick to his stomach, and he wanted nothing more than to smash his face in. Brian wasn't going to do that though. It would cause a scene and reflect poorly on not only the firm but Marissa, and he wasn't going to do that. What he would do was get Pete out of there and make sure he didn't come back.
"You need to leave, now. Walk away on your own power while you still can."
"You can't throw me out. You're nothing at the firm. I have an idea. Why don't you get your boss over here and have her try and throw me out? I'd love to see her try that."
"Ah, Mr. Taylor, it would appear you're wrong on both of those counts. Mr. Douglas is a valuable associate at our firm, and he's more than capable of throwing you out. He might even get a bonus for it." Bryce Young stepped next to the Pete. While he was the senior partner at the firm and was several years older than his counterparts, Bryce was very fit and took excellent care of himself. He wouldn't have any problem taking care of this younger man. Like the other partners, he was aware of Pete's irrational vendetta against Marissa and had been keeping an eye on him to make sure he didn't cause any problems that evening. Bryce and his wife had been talking with Jack and Erica when they saw things starting to escalate. The four of them walked over to handle the situation. "You really should leave. We'll call you a cab and inform your parents that you've gone and why."
"What are you going to do, old man? Throw me out yourself?"
Jack spoke now. "Not that Bryce couldn't do it all on his own, because he could trust me, I'll help. I also have a feeling all of these other people would help as well. You're not welcome here any longer."
"Oh, you're wrong about something else. Marissa earned her position and is more than qualified. We're lucky to have her." Bryce added.
Two of the Yacht Club's security guards were now positioned on either side of Pete, and he knew he had no other choice but to leave.
"We'll see who's having the last laugh next week. When I'm done with her, she won't be able to practice anywhere in the country." Pete spat out as he was escorted away.
Erica, however, wasn't going to let him go without a parting shot of her own and stopped the guards briefly. Like the others, she'd overheard most of what was said. "Mr. Taylor, if you know what is good for you, I would advise you to leave Marissa alone. From all of the accounts I've heard, my daughter-in-law, I believe the phrase of choice is, kicked your ass into the next year the last time you tangled with her, and that was without her even trying. I'd hate to see what she would do to you if she put any effort into it."
Bryce and Jack exchanged looks. They knew what was a simple custody case was going to be very ugly.
Jack clapped Brian on the shoulder. "Well done, Mr. Douglas, well done."
"Thank you."
"I suppose we should let Phil know what happened to his son."
"You're right, Bryce." Jack sighed. "We should. Let's get it over with so we can enjoy the rest of the night."
"We need to let Marissa know what happened." Sofia stated.
Claudia nodded. "Yes, we do. I don't want her going into court on Monday and be blindsided by him."
"Let Rissa know what?" Bianca had made her way back over to the others while Marissa was talking with Nora Buchanan and Pine Valley's D.A. Mike Jensen. While Marissa and Nora were talking, Bianca had given Viki an update on Kirsten as best she could without violating any confidentiality. Mike Jensen happened to be walking by and was quickly pulled into whatever Marissa and Nora were discussing. Bianca decided to mingle a bit and let her wife continue with what she was doing.
Everyone looked at Erica who nodded, giving them permission to recount what had happened. After Bianca had heard everything, Lisa spoke up.
"Do you think we should tell her all of it? A lot of what he'd said about her was disgusting. I know you don't want to get her upset right now."
Bianca shook her head. "No, I don't, but she needs to know all of it and as quickly as possible. I'll take care of it."
"If you don't mind, I'd like to go with you." Brian volunteered.
"Okay, I think that's a good idea. I'll go get her and meet you on the balcony. It's quiet there and will give us some privacy."
/
Marissa, Bianca and Brian were gone for a while. As expected, the redhead was angry over what had happened. She refused, however, to let Pete's hate ruin their evening. Everyone had been working hard and deserved this break. Marissa assured Bianca that she was okay and would deal with Pete very soon. The redhead knew Bianca was fighting her protective instincts. Instead of giving into them though and hiding what happened from her, she was honest with Marissa and told her everything that had occurred. For that, the redhead was beyond grateful and could see how hard her wife was trying. Soon, dinner was served, and the incident put to rest for the time being.
When it looked like the majority of the guests had finished their meals, the partners gathered to address the crowd.
Geoff Thompson picked up the microphone and began to speak. "Good evening and welcome. Don't worry. I'm not here to give a long or boring speech. I save the long ones for the courtroom and the long and boring ones for staff meetings." The crowd laughed. "I'm just here to thank for helping our firm celebrate 15 very successful years. It amazes me that what Bryce and I started that long ago has grown into what we have now. Thank you for your support." He continued after the crowd's applause had died down. "We're also here tonight to celebrate and recognize an addition to our partnership team. We kicked around the idea of adding another partner for some time as well as the idea of expanding a portion of our firm's business, family law to be exact. Once the latter decision was made, the former became a no-brainer for us. While we have an extremely qualified staff and one that is second to none, one name came to mind when it was time for us to decide who would run it. I think you'll all agree that she has the intelligence, talent and dedication needed to oversee this endeavor. More importantly, she has the heart. She's also very good in the courtroom. Family law is not easy, and the needs of these clients are unique. It takes someone special to handle them, to reassure them. So who could we turn to for this? Like I said before, the answer was simple, and we made an offer. Thankfully for us, she agreed. Without further ado, it is my honor to introduce the newest partner to Thompson, Stevens, Montgomery, Cortlandt and Tasker. Ladies and gentlemen, I give you Marissa Tasker."
The crowd burst into applause as the redhead stepped forward and took the microphone. Bianca beamed proudly and clapped so hard her hands were starting to sting. Marissa's team was just an enthusiastic as her wife and in-laws.
"Thank you for that, and thank you, Geoff, for that introduction. They wanted me to speak for a few minutes so I will keep this pretty short. Like Geoff said, this isn't the time for long speeches. Although, I personally like to think none of my speeches are boring especially those in staff meetings. I know my team will agree those are particularly riveting."
The crowd laughed as Marissa's team began to look around attempting to suggest otherwise.
"Thanks for the backup on that, guys." Marissa shook her head with a smile getting their joke before continuing. "I'd also like to thank the partners, Bryce, Geoff, Jack and Caleb, for having the faith in me to take on this challenge and entrusting me with it. I promise that I will do my best to show that your faith was well-placed. Now, I can't do this alone. If you'll indulge me for just a minute, I'd like to introduce you to my team. They are bright and talented, and I'm lucky to have to them. The members of the family law department are Brian Douglas, Lisa Walsh, Claudia Stein, Sofia Jackson, Brandon Casanas, Ellie Parker, Mark Ross, Robin Kelley and Riley Scott."
The members of her team nodded in acknowledgement as everyone clapped for them.
"I'd also like to thank my family. Some are here tonight and some aren't. Their support means a lot. Finally, I saved the best for last. I'd like to thank my wife Bianca and our three children AJ, Miranda and Gabby. I have no doubt that the kids have managed to talk the babysitter into letting them stay up past their bedtime. I'm sure this is a skill they've gotten from my wife."
The crowd laughed when Kendall could be overheard saying "hardly, that's all on you".
Marissa chuckled. "Without the four of them, none of this would mean as much as it does. They are my life and mean everything to me and keep me grounded. Bianca, you make my life complete. You've given me so much, and I will never be able to thank you enough for the love, light and life you've brought to me."
Bianca wiped away the tears that had spilled from chocolate eyes as a result of her wife's heartfelt words. The brunette kept her gaze locked onto her wife's as the crowd clapped.
The redhead cleared her throat in order to continue. "On behalf of my fellow partners, I would like to thank our entire staff for their hard work and dedication. Without you, none of the success we've achieved is possible. Simply put, we couldn't do it without you. This evening is for you. We would also like to thank our clients. We will continue to do our utmost for you and hope you know how important you are to us. I hope you will all join me in raising a glass. To Thompson, Stevens, Montgomery, Cortlandt and Tasker and to another successful 15 years."
Everyone raised a glass and joined in the toast.
"The bar is open, please be responsible, and the band is ready to start. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to dance with my amazing wife. Please enjoy yourselves." Marissa handed to microphone over to a member of the wait staff and made her way to a still beaming Bianca.
"May I have this dance?"
Bianca gave Marissa a chaste kiss. "Yes, you may. I love you."
"I love you too."
Marissa and Bianca, along with several other couples, made their way to the dance floor as the band started playing "All of Me" by John Legend.