A/N: As always, thanks for reading, reviewing and following! It is truly appreciated. I can't tell you how happy I am that I got this done today and am able to post before I head out on vacation. A couple of you were wondering how long I plan on writing. I'm not really sure. I have several story ideas left to explore. We still have to get Sparky here after all! So, who knows? I can only say that it won't be in the foreseeable future. As I stated before, I'm heading out on vacation. I don't know if I'll get a chance to write much while I'm gone, but I'll see what I can do. Because of this, there might not be an update next week. This chapter picks up where the last one left off. Oh, there is a decent size section in italics that is a flashback. I've separated it by /\. Hope you enjoy this update!
/
Pete and Russ glanced at each other before gaping at Carol. Both were wondering the same thing. How the hell did she get a hold of Marissa? We would have heard her if she called Marissa from the house because it was bugged, and we also would've known because of the cellphone records we had. Unless they gave us bogus records, but there wasn't enough time for that. What the hell happened?
Alex and Gail had to turn their heads away from Pete and Payne or else they would have burst out laughing which they were pretty sure the judge wouldn't appreciate. Carol, for her part, kept a relatively straight face. Out of the corner of her eye, she could see the two men glaring at her and trying to figure out what happened. It was for that reason that a small, satisfied smile tugged on the corners of her mouth. They had no idea of who they were dealing with.
"Officer Monroe, could you tell the court what the result of that meeting was?"
Brot nodded. "You requested and the D.A. agreed to authorize a wire for Mrs. Walker to wear during her meeting with Mr. Payne."
"Son of a bitch. She was wired."
Judge Kagan rapped her gavel loudly. "Mr. Payne, I will have order in my court. If you cannot control yourself, I will have you removed. Do I make myself clear?"
Payne nodded and mumbled. "Yes, your honor."
The courtroom was abuzz over Brot's revelation. The vast majority of those present were impressed that a) Marissa had the foresight to have her client wired and b) Carol had worn a wire. It was risky but obviously the older woman had no reservations doing what needed to be done. Her outward appearance belied her fierceness and steely resolve.
Pete was still struggling to keep his client quiet. They certainly didn't need a contempt charge at this point, and the lawyer had no doubt that Judge Kagan would be as good as her word. "We still have our recording to go up against theirs. It'll be our expert against their expert, and my guy is rock solid. We're still good." Pete whispered to Russ. The lawyer was trying to convince himself as much as his client. Their once 'slam-dunk, sure thing, can't lose case' now had more holes than the Titanic, and there wasn't a lifeboat in sight.
"Is there something you would like to share with us, Mr. Taylor?"
"Objection?"
"Are you telling or asking me?"
"Objection." Pete stated with a little more conviction.
"On what grounds?"
"We haven't had a chance to review the recording."
"As with your recording from this morning, I'm going to allow it. I will also allow you time to have your expert review it, but for now, we're going to listen to it. Although, the fact that it has been made by the police weighs heavily in their favor. Objection is overruled. Continue, Ms. Tasker."
"Thank you, your honor. What happened next, Officer Monroe?"
"An hour before she was to meet Mr. Payne, Officer Hall stationed himself in the park close to where they were to meet in order to observe them. He wanted to get there early so no one would see him. While Officer Hall was doing that, Chief Hubbard, Mr. Jensen, you and I met at the Walkers' residence."
Marissa could almost smell the smoke coming from the wheels in Pete's and Payne's brains working overtime trying to figure out how they missed that conversation. They couldn't ask though because that would basically mean admitting knowledge of the bug that had been planted inside the Walkers' home. Despite being captured on video camera, they were still clinging to their denials of them knowing anything about it. At that moment in time, Marissa just didn't feel like sharing that bit of information with them. If they wanted to know, they were going to have to work for it.
"We fitted Mrs. Walker with the wire and tested it to make sure it was in proper working order, which it was. We then had Mrs. Walker drive to the park while we stationed ourselves in a surveillance vehicle nearby."
"Did you notice anything before the meeting?"
"Yes, we saw Mr. Taylor sitting in a car a few spots over from where we were. He was wearing headphones and concentrating on something that was sitting either on or near the front passenger seat. Shortly after arriving there, Officer Hall reported in stating that Mr. Payne had arrived and was concealed in some undergrowth near where the meeting was to take place. He remained there, looking around the area, until well after the scheduled meeting time. The meeting finally started just as we were getting to tell Mrs. Walker to leave. At that point, Mr. Payne made himself known, and we recorded the entire conversation."
"Do you have that recording with you today?"
"Yes, I do." Brot handed a cd over to the bailiff to set up to play.
"Officer Monroe, what did you do with the cd after recording it that day?"
"I logged it into evidence at the police station. The seal that the bailiff just broke was the one I applied that day."
"Just to be clear, that cd has never been in either my possession or in the possession of anyone working on this case for me?"
"That is correct. It has not."
"It has only been in the possession of the Pine Valley Police?"
"Correct."
"Thank you. At this time, your honor, I would like to play that recording."
"Go ahead."
The recording could not have been more different from the one Pete played earlier. Not only was the content different but so was the quality. Where parts of Pete's recording were muffled and had small clicks, pauses and interruptions, this one was clear and crisp. All those in the courtroom appeared to be sitting on the edge of their seats listening to every word exchanged, well everyone except Pete and Payne. They knew all too well exactly what had been said. Judge Kagan was making numerous notes on what she was hearing. There were several passages she would be playing again later in her chambers. Everyone winced hearing the slap that Carol had leveled against Payne. That blow had not been planned, but it could not be denied by anyone that it wasn't well deserved. Gail and Alex were fuming. Not only was Payne belittling their struggle to have a child but he was purposefully goading Carol and trying to hurt her. It took every ounce of strength Alex had to not go over and beat both men senseless.
Marissa let silence fill the courtroom for a few moments after the recording finished for dramatic effect. It also allowed Judge Kagan to finish her notes. The redhead then began again. "Did you notice anything after the meeting was over?"
"Yes, I saw Russell Payne join Mr. Taylor in his car where he removed a wire of his own. The two spoke for a few minutes before attempting to high-five each other and then drive off."
/
"Attempting to high-five?"
"They screwed up a high-five when they were sitting right next to each other? Wow."
"I know. Max can high-five. The kids taught him that trick a few months ago. He's pretty good at it. Obviously, he's a lot better than those two."
Zach cleared his throat to keep himself from laughing. Not only was Marissa's performance entertaining, Kendall and Greenlee's play by play commentary was as well.
/
"Do you know Arthur Simons?"
Brot half smiled knowing the name and the man all too well. "Yes, I do."
"Could you tell the court how?"
No! No, no, no, no, no. Pete jumped to his feet. "Objection, your honor! Relevance!"
"Mr. Taylor stated earlier that he would have Mr. Simons testify on the authenticity of his recording. Since we have a police officer here, under oath, why not ask him about the man?"
"Are you going to ask him about your so-called expert?"
Judge Kagan rapped her gavel loudly. "That will be enough, Mr. Taylor. You will address me with any questions and not Ms. Tasker. I will not tolerate childish behavior from the adults in my courtroom. Am I clear?"
"Yes, your honor." Pete mumbled.
"Good. You will be calling your own expert, Ms. Tasker?"
"Yes, your honor, I will. He is next after Officer Monroe, and I plan on asking the officer about him."
"Very good. Objection overruled. The witness will answer the question."
"Yes, I know Artie Simons. He goes by Arthur now, but until a few months ago, he went by Artie."
"How do you know him?" Marissa didn't have much of a chance to speak with Brot about Simons before now. When they learned who Pete's expert was right before the recess, Claudia called Brot to tell him he would be needed that afternoon. She also mentioned Simons and asked if he could do a background check on the man. Because of how tight things were timing-wise, they didn't get the chance to debrief him about Simons before he was called to testify. Marissa knew she was taking a chance with this line of questioning, but her gut was telling her it was the right move.
"He has a pretty long rap sheet. He's been arrested well over a dozen times for fraud, perjury, illegal wire-tapping, impersonating a police officer. In fact, he has an outstanding warrant against him."
"For what?"
"He did some creative editing of a recording for a client of his that's involved in a nasty divorce."
"Creative editing?"
"Yeah, he doctored it so it sounded like the wife admitted to having an affair. What actually happened was she was accusing the husband of having one."
Marissa couldn't have asked for better news. "Your honor, I will be calling Bill Reed to testify for us as an expert witness. Officer Monroe, do you know Bill Reed?"
"Yes, I do. He does a lot of work for the police. He's very good at voice analysis and has an impeccable reputation and credentials. He served in Army intelligence and is extremely qualified."
"Thank you. I have no further questions at this time."
Great. Artie didn't mention all of that when I hired him. It would've been nice to know. She's got a damn war hero and I've got a wanted felon. Perfect. I don't know how much more this day could suck.
"Mr. Taylor, do you have any questions for this witness?"
Pete scrambled to think of anything he could ask but kept coming up empty. The D.A. had authorized things on the other side. He was still clinging to the extremely slim hope that his recording would hold up, but that prospect was looking bleaker by the moment. Maybe I can portray Russ as caring so much about his niece that his actions were more an act of temporary insanity! Yeah, I can work with that! "No questions at this time."
"Please call your next witness, Ms. Tasker."
"I call Bill Reed."
Marissa's expert witness was a lawyer's dream. Not only were his credentials solid and above reproach, he broke things down perfectly and didn't talk over anyone's head. He testified that Pete's recording had in fact been doctored. Words and phrases had been pieced together to form the content they had heard that morning. The flaws were glaring when Bill pointed them out and explained what had been done to create the resulting bogus recording. It was damning testimony and left Pete stunned with no idea of what to ask. The hole he had started digging himself that morning kept getting deeper and deeper with each witness Marissa called. Her next witness was no exception.
"I call Pamela Payne."
Russ's eyes grew wide hearing the name and he grabbed Pete. "Do something! She can't testify! Isn't there some sort of rule that says a wife can't testify against her husband?"
"Alright. Calm down. I'm on it." Pete stood. "Objection, your honor."
"On what grounds?"
"Spousal privilege. A spouse can't be compelled to testify against another spouse."
"Ms. Tasker?"
"Mrs. Payne is a rebuttal witness, your honor, and volunteered to testify. Mr. Payne testified earlier that he plans on having Sam live with him and his wife and that they would provide a stable home for her. I think it only right we hear from the wife who could become Sam's new mother if he is granted custody."
"I'll allow it."
"But, your honor …"
"No, Mr. Taylor. Ms. Tasker is correct. If they are granted custody and Mrs. Payne is going to be caring for Sam, we need to hear from her. Objection overruled."
Pete sat back down and whispered to his client. "What the hell is she going to say?"
"Nothing. She won't say anything."
"Mrs. Payne …"
"Please don't call me that."
"I'm sorry?"
"Don't call me Mrs. Payne. That was my mother-in-law, and I'd rather not get confused with her. She was a bit … bit much to deal with."
"Okay. What should I call you?"
"You can call me Pam."
"Alright, Pam, you're married to Russell, correct?"
"For now, yes."
/
"Damn, I'm really feeling the love there."
"Yeah, I have a feeling 'Divorce Court' is going to be Pam's next stop."
/
"Your husband testified earlier that you were unable to get off work to testify."
"Yeah, that's not right. I'm a nurse at a hospital in Pittsburgh. I work so many days on and so many days off. I had my schedule over a month ago and told Russ what it was so he knew I was off. He just didn't want me to testify."
"Why would you say that?"
"Because I've made it perfectly clear to him how I feel about this."
"How is that?"
"Objection."
"Goes to state of mind, your honor."
"Overruled. The witness may answer."
Pam nodded. "I don't want children. I have nothing against them. It's just that I had a really lousy childhood and have serious questions about my ability to be a good mother. I'm just not equipped for it. Russ knew this when we got married. He told me he felt the same way. Then a few months ago, he tells me he has a niece, a teenaged niece, and he's going to go for custody of her."
"That had to be a surprise for you. Had he given any indication of changing his opinion on wanting children?"
"No, he hadn't, and I'll tell you right now that I haven't changed mine. I told him that too. I asked him how he even found out about her and where she came from. From what I knew, he was an only child."
"What did he say?"
"Russ said she was the daughter of his half-brother who died. There was a family in Pine Valley that wanted to adopt her, and he wanted to stop it."
"Why?"
"That's what I asked, especially when he said the family was nice, and she had a good home and was happy. I mean why would he want to take that away from her? The girl already lost her family once. Why have her go through that again? That seemed really cruel to me, and I didn't want any part of that. I told him that if he insisted on going through with this not to come back home, and I meant it. Don't come home, Russ, because the locks are already changed."
"I just want to be clear on this. When your husband testified that if he wins custody of Sam that she would be raised by both of you …"
"He lied. That's not happening, and he knows it."
"So, he would, if given custody, be raising Sam by himself?"
"That's right, and it would be a huge mistake."
Marissa saw Judge Kagan make a note of this. She knew that many judges weren't comfortable with having a single man raise a teenaged girl by themselves. Even if nothing would happen between them, it was still extremely awkward. The fact that Sam was scared of Payne after the incident at school didn't bode well for him either.
"There's something else involved with all of this too." Pam volunteered.
"What is it?"
"In a word, money."
"Objection."
"Goes to motive, your honor."
"I'll allow it. Overruled."
"Why do you think he's doing this for money?" Later the same day as the attempted break in at Minx Manor, Marissa finally figured out the real motive behind all of this. It hit her out of the blue on her way home. Payne was after Sam's trust fund.
/\
Marissa had just left the Miranda Center and was headed home when she finally figured out the last piece of the puzzle. Payne wanted Sam's money. The redhead knew there was over $60,000 in her trust fund at the moment. That would be a nice chunk of change. Given Payne's background as a con artist, she could see where he would think this would be an easy score for him. The thing was, the money couldn't be touched until Sam was 18, and the fund wasn't administered by the Walkers. Someone else was in charge of it, someone with no personal involvement with Sam. This insured there was no conflict of interest involved and was suggested by the Walkers. They didn't want anyone to think they wanted Sam for her money. They wanted Sam because they loved her. Besides, it was her money, a nest egg to help her get her future started. To the Walkers, Sam was their responsibility, and they would take care of her and provide for her current needs.
Russ's motive was confirmed when he called Carol and offered to 'sell' Sam to them for the money in the trust fund. Marissa and Bianca were enjoying a very nice weekend with the kids. The couple had made up from their fight, and the redhead was determined to spend the weekend concentrating only on her family and not work. She'd been doing just that until she received a frantic call from Carol.
Bianca was manning the grill while Marissa was setting the patio table. The weather was still nice enough for the family to enjoy dining outside. AJ had been sent inside to retrieve some napkins and was returning with them and a message. They had heard the phone ring inside and heard Miranda answer it. "Ma, Mimo says Mrs. Walker's on the phone for you."
"Okay, thanks, Buddy." The redhead turned to her wife. "I won't be long, promise."
"Go ahead. Tell her I said 'hi'."
The call took a little longer than she thought, and when she returned outside, Marissa was unusually quiet. Bianca could tell something was on her wife's mind and could see the wheels turning in Marissa's head. The brunette decided to wait until after lunch was over to quiz her on it. While the kids and Max ran around the backyard, Bianca decided it was time for them to talk.
"Okay. Are you going to tell me what's going on? What did Carol want?"
Marissa looked at Bianca trying to decide what she could tell her. The Walkers had given the redhead leave to discuss the entire case with Bianca, but Marissa wanted to be careful and not tell her wife something that could put her in an awkward position. "Alright. You know how I've been wracking my brain trying to find that one piece to all of this that I've been missing?"
"Yeah, I know. It's been bothering you. Wait. Did you figure it out?"
"I did, and I don't know how I missed it. Russ is in this for the money, Sam's money to be exact."
"Sam doesn't have any money."
"Yes, she does. She's got her trust fund, and it's worth over $60,000."
"That's right. I forgot all about it. No, you don't think he would go after that, do you? Even if he does want that money, those funds can't be accessed until she's 18. The Walkers wanted it set up that way."
"I know they did. I also think he wants that money. I've had Mitch continue to dig into Payne's past. It seems that he's racked up some debt. He's got a bit of a gambling problem and owes a bookie $25,000."
"Seriously? Wow. That would definitely give him motive then, but he still can't get to that money."
"I know that. You know that. The Walkers know that. I don't know if Russ knows that or even cares. I don't it matters where the money comes from as long as he gets it."
"What do you mean by that?"
"Carol told me he called her while she and Sam were out shopping."
"He what?! Did he say what he wanted?"
"No. He only said he wanted her to meet him tomorrow at 2:00 in the park. He wants her to come alone and not tell anyone, especially me."
"He said that? He told her not to tell you? Did he say anything else?"
"He told her that it wouldn't be good for her or Sam if she called me."
"He threatened her? That son of a bitch. What the hell is he up to?"
"My opinion? I think he's about to make his move."
"Which is?"
"Offer to drop the case in exchange for some money."
"That's illegal, and they would never go for that. You would never allow them to even consider it. Even on the off chance that they did think about it, they don't have that kind of money."
"Again, I know that. You know that. The Walkers know that, and Payne doesn't give a damn."
"Wait a minute. How did she call you? The house is bugged, and he's monitoring her calls. Did you get her a burner phone? No, that can't be right. The kids know not to answer the phone unless they recognize the name on caller id. So, Miranda would only have answered if she knew it was one of the Walkers." Bianca saw the smirk on her wife's face and knew she had something up her sleeve, something no one else had thought of. "Okay, spill it, Counselor."
"You know how Alex has that workshop in back of their house?"
"Yeah, that's where he does all of his woodworking stuff."
"Yep. He also has a landline in there, and there aren't any listening devices in there."
Bianca realized her wife's cleverness and chuckled. "You went old school! Oh my god, that's brilliant. You're brilliant! They were so focused on cellphones that they never even thought of a traditional phone. Some people don't even have them anymore. The Walkers have a safe place to talk and to use to call you, and Pete and Payne have no idea. That is so deviously clever. I love it!"
"Thank you. I thought it was pretty good myself."
"So, what now?"
Marissa turned serious. "Well, that kind of depends on you. This has to be dealt with. There's no way I can have Carol do this on her own, and it really needs to be reported to the police as well as Mike."
Bianca nodded. "Yes, it does, and I agree. Carol cannot face him by herself. We don't really know what he's capable of. Tell me what you want to do."
"I want to go to the station and talk to Jesse and Mike. If I can get Mike to go along with this, and I think I can, I want Carol to wear a wire to her meeting."
"You want them to record the meeting."
"Yeah, I do. It's the only way I can be assured that we have an accurate accounting of what's said."
"That makes sense. I wouldn't put it past either of them to doctor what's said and try and use it to their advantage. I suppose you plan on being nearby when this is going on?"
"I can't let her do this by herself. Besides, I'm pretty sure I won't be the only one who wants to be there. Jesse and Mike will be there. I won't do anything to jeopardize Sparky."
Bianca thought for a moment. "You don't need my permission."
"No, but I want you to be okay with this."
"I am, and I trust you. You need to go talk to Jesse now."
"I do. Are you okay with that? I know we were going to spend the weekend free from work."
"We were, but this, this is something else. You have to go. This is the Walkers and Sam we're talking about. You have to do what needs to be done to keep Sam safe and away from that bastard. He can't win, Rissa. It would crush Sam as well as the Walkers. Go, I understand and am completely on board. We'll be okay here and waiting for you."
Marissa smiled and cupped her wife's face. "I'm so lucky to have you. Thank you for understanding and being you. I love you and will be back as soon as I can."
"I love you too. Now, go."
The couple exchanged a tender kiss before Marissa headed inside to grab her keys. The redhead paused when she heard her name.
"Rissa, I'm still not on board with calling our little one Sparky. That's a debate we still need to have." Bianca grinned.
"I look forward to it. You know how much I love a good debate."
/
Marissa got home late from work the next evening. Bianca had received a text from her wife letting her know, and the brunette was fine with it and understood. She was a little anxious though. Bianca really wanted to know what had happened at the park and was hoping Marissa would fill her in on things.
The family was just sitting down for dinner when the redhead got home. Bianca could tell her wife was wound up but doing her best to keep calm and not let the kids know anything was going on. After they finished eating and the kids were in the family room, the couple finally got their chance to talk.
"So, what happened? Are you okay? Did something go wrong because you look upset? Is Carol okay?"
"It went perfect for us. The recording is crisp, clear and clean. I was right. They're making their move. Pete was there, and they were making their own recording. Although, I seriously doubt it will match ours. Carol's okay. Actually, she's amazing. She didn't give anything away and handled it perfectly. There was one thing I wish she wouldn't have done, but I can't blame her one bit. I would've done the exact same thing if I was in her position. It's what has me upset. Payne said some awful things, B."
"He wants money and not Sam."
"Yeah, he doesn't give a damn about her, never has. He doesn't care at all about what could happen to her. To him, it's a payday."
"Damn, I was afraid of that. So, what's next?"
"Now that I know exactly what they have in mind, I'm going after them with everything I've got. Pete wanted a fight. Well, he's got one now. Claudia was working on a few things for me while I was out. Namely, she was working on Payne's wife. Mitch is working on something big for me too. If that pans out, it's going to change everything."
/\
"Russ owes a bookie a lot of money, about $25 grand to be exact. He got all excited about this girl when he heard she had a trust fund. He said it would solve all of his problems. It still doesn't change anything for me. I don't think she should be taken away from her family, and I still don't want kids. Russ asked me if I would be willing to stick it out for a little while. He said he just needed a little time and wouldn't keep her all that long."
"Did he explain himself?"
"Yeah, he did. He said he was first going to try and basically sell her to the family that wants to adopt her. He'd offer to drop the case if they paid him. If they didn't, him and his lawyer had a couple of options. You see, he said they were sure they could still get the family to fork over some big bucks if he won. He said they would be begging to get her back and pay anything at that point. If that didn't work, they had a plan C."
"Did he say what plan C was?"
"Oh yeah, he said his lawyer really liked that plan. It actually involved you. He said they were going to make some sort of recording that would incriminate you of wrongdoing and then basically blackmail you, your wife or both of you with it. He said she was loaded and you weren't doing so bad either. Apparently, his lawyer really has it out for you. Russ said he hated you, blamed you for everything wrong in his life, and was going to use this case to take you down."
/
Erica glanced over at Bianca and again found that she didn't look surprised by this news. Her daughter was angry. That much was obvious by her knuckles turning white from her fists being clenched so tightly. She was not, however, surprised. Erica was sure this was because Marissa had known about this and told Bianca in order to prepare her.
Kendall was pissed off too, as well as surprised. "That son of a bitch."
"Which one?"
"Both. They better hope I'm not left alone with them."
Greenlee agreed and was more than willing to help. "Let me know if you need any help."
/
Marissa nodded. "Thank you. I have no further questions for this witness."
Pete was glaring at Russ. The man had exposed their entire plan to his wife for nothing. Again, Pete couldn't think of any questions, and the witness was excused.
Judge Kagan looked at her notes and shook her head. Marissa had successfully picked apart Pete's entire case, and in the process, exposed many illegal activities on their side. "Call your next witness, Ms. Tasker."
"I'm done with my rebuttal witnesses, your honor. I would like to present my case now."
"Go ahead."
"I call Anita Parnell."
"Objection."
The judge sighed. "Really, Mr. Taylor. You're objecting to the social worker assigned to this case? Overruled. Let me handle the questioning for this witness, Ms. Tasker."
A middle aged blonde made her way to the stand and was sworn in. At this point, Marissa didn't really need her testimony. Mitch came through for her and proved her hunch right. That would be enough to secure her winning this case, but Marissa wanted the social worker's testimony on the record so there would be no doubt of where Sam belonged.
Marissa nodded and took her seat.
"Mrs. Parnell, you are the social worker assigned to this case?"
"Yes, I am, your honor."
"And you interviewed Russell Payne and Gail, Alex and Carol Walker."
"Yes, and I also interviewed Sam Robinson Pamela Payne."
"Very good. With regards to the Walker family, what did you find?"
"As you know, they have been Sam's foster family for some time. I found they are providing Sam with a loving, stable home. Sam is doing well in school. When she was first placed with the Walkers, she was behind in her studies due to the circumstances of her previous foster home. She worked closely with Gail Walker to get caught up. As a result of their work, Sam is in fact now an honor student and near the top of her class. She has completed her court ordered community service ahead of schedule and continues to volunteer at the Miranda Center. I believe this is good for her."
"Why do you say that?"
"Her previous living situation was reprehensible to put it mildly. Sam was abused and that abuse led to legal trouble for her. It also made it hard for her to trust outsiders. This is common with victims of abuse. When it came to the Walkers, she just clicked with them. They, however, wanted to ensure her emotional wellbeing so they took the extra step themselves and had her go to therapy. I asked why they did this. Alex Walker told me that although the physical injuries healed, they were worried about the emotional and psychological wounds, the ones you couldn't see and the ones that could have a more lasting impact. I was pleased to see them so invested in her healing and future, and I completely agreed with them. I was going to strongly suggest this to the court but didn't need to because they took that step themselves. The change in Sam is remarkable. She is happy, physically and emotionally healthy, outgoing and looking forward to the future. In Gail and Alex, she has found that stabilizing influence that she needed before. With Carol, she has a grandmother who dotes on her but doesn't let her get away with too much. With that family, Sam has found love and safety."
Judge Kagan listened carefully to the social worker's glowing report of the Walkers. Putting all of the mounting evidence aside against Russell Payne, this report would be extremely important in her decision. "What about Russell Payne?"
Mrs. Parnell sighed. "I found no emotional connection between Sam and Mr. Payne, on either side."
"Objection, your honor. My client is this girl's only remaining biological family member. What more of a connection is there?"
"I've found biology doesn't always make a family."
The judge nodded. "Overruled. Please continue, Mrs. Parnell."
"I'll start with the living situation. Mr. Payne had stated to me in our interview that both he and his wife would be taking care of Sam. She would have her own room and a stable family life. His wife, when I interviewed her, told me something else. She would not be taking part in any way of the caring for Sam. If custody is awarded to Mr. Payne, he would be the sole provider. He does not have steady employment nor the prospect of any at the present time. His wife expressed serious concerns about his ability to care for Sam. She didn't like the idea of removing Sam from a loving home. I found that very telling. There is one overriding concern that I have. Sam is scared of him. He approached her at school and threatened her with going back into the foster system. Given her previous experience, that's a very real fear for Sam. As a result, she doesn't trust him. When I asked him why he would make such a threat to a young girl, Mr. Payne was not able to answer that question to my satisfaction."
"You said you spoke with Sam. Where would she like to live?"
"Objection, your honor. You're going to leave this decision up to a girl who has a track record of making poor decisions?"
"The final decision will be mine, Mr. Taylor. Have no doubt about that. I will, however, take Sam's feelings into account given that it is her future we're deciding. Sam is also 16 years old and fully capable of contributing to this decision. Overruled. Mrs. Parnell, where would Sam like to live?"
"Sam was very clear about what she wants. She would like to remain with the Walkers and have their petition for adoption granted. She loves them. She trusts them and feels safe. They've given her a home. To Sam, that means everything."
"What is your expert opinion?"
"I agree with Sam. She should remain with the Walkers, and their petition should be granted. They may not be related by blood, but they are a family in every way that matters."
"Mr. Taylor, any questions?"
God dammit. I don't even know what the hell I'm supposed to do now. "No."
"Any questions, Ms. Tasker?"
Marissa had a feeling that would be the social worker's findings and was very pleased with what she heard. "No, your honor. I have no questions of this witness."
"Thank you, Mrs. Parnell. You may step down." Judge Kagan looked down at the files she had in front of her along with the pages of notes she had taken and the various audio and video recordings. She had several things she wanted to review before rendering her decision.
The Walkers had agreed to give depositions earlier in this process, before bugging of houses and tracking of phone calls. Pete had grilled them, hammering them with the same questions repeatedly. He wasn't happy with their answers and was hoping to trip them up. Marissa had to step in several times in order to have him move on. The Walkers held their own and never once faltered. Marissa was proud of them and didn't doubt that they would be able to handle things. It was emotionally draining for them, but they made it through with flying colors. Because the Walkers had given depositions, they really didn't need to testify today unless Judge Kagan had any questions for them. The judge also had the social worker's findings, and Sam had communicated her position and hopes clearly to Mrs. Parnell.
Payne was a different story. He didn't give a deposition. Part of his and Pete's master plan was to withhold his testimony until the day of the hearing, springing it Marissa at the very last minute in hopes of catching the redheaded lawyer off balance. They thought his testimony coupled with the incriminating recordings would have her scrambling. That wasn't the case. They didn't count on her being several steps ahead of them.
From where the judge sat, she honestly couldn't think of anyone else Marissa or Pete could call.
"If there are no further witnesses …"
Marissa stood. "Actually, your honor, I have at least one more witness."
The judge would be lying if she said she wasn't curious who the redhead had in mind, and she did say at least one more witness. "Very well. Please proceed."
"Thank you. I recall Russell Payne."
Payne had a moment of panic wondering want Marissa had in mind. He had already testified, and she couldn't crack him. Did she have something up her sleeve?
Pete was on his feet and beginning his rant. "Objection! Ms. Tasker has already had her chance to question my client. There is no purpose to recalling him. She's basically been there, done that."
"Your honor, if I may?"
"Go ahead."
"Since questioning Mr. Payne this morning, I have received new information involving him that is pertinent to this case. I also would like to remind opposing counsel that I reserved the right to recall his client."
"Yes, you did. Objection overruled. Mr. Payne, please retake the stand. I remind you that you are still under oath." When Russ was seated, the judge turned to Marissa. "Please proceed, Ms. Tasker."
/
Bianca leaned forward. She knew Marissa had been working on something big that she hoped would slam the door on Payne and his custody request, but she didn't know what it was. A quick glance to her right told her that the Walkers didn't know what it was either. Her wife must have found what she had wanted. Rissa has that look in her eyes, and damn if it isn't sexy as hell. God, I love watching her in action. Bianca shook her head to clear certain thoughts from her mind. She needed to focus on what was going on.
/
"Why in the hell is she recalling Payne?"
Kendall shook her head. "I have no idea." She leaned forward slightly to catch Brian's attention. "Do you know what she's up to?"
The lawyer shook his head. "Not really. I know she had Mitch checking on something and thought it was huge. She didn't want to say what it was though because she didn't want to jinx herself. I guess we're about to find out."
/
"Mr. Payne, you testified earlier that you are the half-brother of Matt Robinson who is Sam's biological father. Is that correct?"
"Yes."
"You and Matt shared the same father?"
"Yes."
"What was your father's name?"
Pete wore a mask of confusion as Marissa questioned his client about his parentage. He really didn't know where she was going with this line of questioning. It just didn't make any sense. He was happy at least that his client was giving her minimal answers.
"His name was Kurt Robinson."
"And your mother's name?"
"Jackie Payne."
"And you kept her name instead of his. Why is that?"
"Because she raised me. He didn't have anything to do with me."
"That's the only reason?"
She couldn't know. There's no way in hell she could know. "Yes, it is."
"You also testified that you believe that you should have custody of Sam because she is, in your words, 'blood' and you believe 'blood should stay together'. Is this correct?"
"Objection. These questions have been asked and answered."
"I'm almost there, your honor."
"Very well. Overruled. Please hurry it up, Ms. Tasker. The witness will answer the question."
"Yes, that's what I said and believe."
"Thank you." Marissa turned back to Claudia who handed her two pieces of paper. The redhead chanced a glance at Bianca and winked. "Mr. Payne, could you explain to the court why there are two different records of your birth? One has your father listed as Kurt Robinson and another has your father listed as Carl Peterson."
Payne froze, unable to utter a single syllable.
Marissa handed the certificates to the judge. "As you can see, your honor, the birth certificate listing Mr. Robinson as the birth father is from the county clerk's office and filed two months after Mr. Payne's birth. The birth certificate listing Mr. Peterson as the birth father is from the state office of vital statistics and filed within the standard time of one week."
Judge Kagan noted the differences. "That is quite the discrepancy."
"I thought so as well." Marissa walked back and was handed another paper. "This is an affidavit from Dr. Miles Boone. He is the doctor who delivered Mr. Payne and swears he filed the birth certificate stating Mr. Peterson as the birth father. He also goes on to state that he was approached by Mr. Payne six months ago and asked to testify if needed that Mr. Robinson was the birth father."
Claudia handed the redhead another paper."
"This is a DNA test."
"I didn't give my DNA to anyone!"
"Objection! We have no way of knowing if this is actually my client's DNA."
"You don't even know what the results are, and you're objecting?" Judge Kagan asked.
"Opposing counsel has a track record of …"
"I wouldn't finish that statement if I were you, Mr. Taylor. If anyone's track record is suspect in this court, it's yours. I have found no indication of wrongdoing on Ms. Tasker's part. Objection is overruled. I trust you can verify the authenticity of these results, Ms. Tasker?"
"Yes, your honor, I can. You see, Mr. Payne's DNA is in the state's database from a previous arrest. With an order from the District Attorney's office, we had it run against Sam Robinson's. I have an affidavit from Mr. Jensen to these facts. He's also here to testify today if needed. The results of this test state that Mr. Payne is in no way, shape or form related biologically to Sam Robinson."
/
"Holy crap. I did not see that coming."
"Damn, me either. This is like an episode of Jerry Springer or Maury Povich."
Zach smiled. "I couldn't agree with either of you more. Nice work, Red."
The partners all sat back, clearly impressed by the tenacity of their newest partner. She had the case won, but they could tell she wanted there to be no doubt about who should have custody.
The Walkers stared at each other in disbelief. Their faith in Marissa was proving to be well-placed and deserved, not that they ever doubted her.
Erica smiled. She wondered if her daughter-in-law would ever cease to surprise her. She had played this well.
Bianca beamed with pride. That's what she was working on. Yep, they never saw it coming and had no clue of who they were dealing with. My wife is brilliant.
/
Judge Kagan reviewed the results and looked at Pete. He looked like death warmed over. It was clear to see that the lawyer had no idea about this. He wasn't that good of an actor.
"Exactly how long have you known that you are not Sam's uncle?" Marissa pressed.
Payne refused to answer, and Marissa continued to hammer him with questions. She was relentless, and finally was rewarded with Payne snapping.
"I needed the money alright?! Why the hell should she have it? She hasn't done anything to deserve it. It's about time she learns what the real world is like."
The courtroom sat in stunned silence. Anger began to seep in and soon replaced shock. Sharp looks from Gail and Carol kept Alex in place along with each woman placing a hand on an arm. The women were having a hard enough time restraining themselves. The last thing they needed was for Alex to lose his temper and pound Payne into submission because they had no doubt that the man would press charges and complicate their lives even more and longer than he already had. The reassuring touch seemed to ground all three of them and managed to give them a small measure of calm.
Marissa was seething on the inside but gave no indication of this. She couldn't afford to now when she was this close to the finish line.
"I hate to break this to you, Mr. Payne, but this isn't about money. It never has been, at least not to my clients."
"Really?" Payne mocked. "What's it about then?"
"Obviously two things you know nothing about, family and love. My clients love Sam and want to make her a permanent part of their family, make her their daughter and become her parents. They don't care about the money. If they did, why would they have set the trust fund up the way they did? That money is Sam's and is for her future. It's not for the Walkers' benefit. Any money they've been given as foster parents has been added to that trust fund. And as for knowing what the real world is like, trust me, she does. None of that, however, has anything to do with what you were trying to do. You were willing to destroy a young girl's life, rip her away from a family for the second time in her life with no regard of what it would do to her, for money."
"Oh please, you only care about what it would've done to you if you lost."
Marissa gave the man a glare that was on par with the Kane death glare. "Believe it or not, I don't care what would've happened to me. I'm an adult and can take care of myself. Unlike you, I'm not looking for handouts or the easy way out of things. I don't think anyone owes me anything, and I've worked hard for everything that I have." She threw the man a look of utter distain. "I have no further questions for this witness."
Payne started to get up but stopped when he heard the judge.
"Not so fast, Mr. Payne. Where do you think you're going?"
"I was going back to my seat."
"The only place you're going now is jail. I'm finding you in contempt of court and have a nice jail cell for you to cool your heels in while the chief of police and district attorney decide on all of the charges they are going to file against you. Am I correct in that assumption, Mr. Jensen and Chief Hubbard?"
Both men nodded with smiles on their faces. "Yes, your honor. You would be right."
"Before I have the bailiff take you away, I have a bit of business I have to take care of. It's a formality, given the long list of offenses you've committed plus the strong case Ms. Tasker presented on behalf of the Walkers. Your petition for custody of the minor child Samantha Robinson is dismissed. Bailiff, please take him away and get him out of my sight. I can't stand to look at him any longer."
Judge Kagan turned her attention to Pete and sighed. "Mr. Taylor, where do I even begin with you? You have shown nothing but contempt for this court and the laws of this state. As an officer of the court, you are held to a higher standard because you are supposed to know better. Yet, you were a willing participate in the illegal activities committed by your client. You showed a reckless disregard for the truth, ethics and morals you were sworn to uphold. Those actions could have cost a young woman her family and her future. And for what? From the testimony I've heard today, it was for revenge. Now, you face disbarment and serious prison time. One has to ask if it was worth it. You should know that the transcripts of these proceedings are going to the state bar as well as the Pine Valley District Attorney's office. Also, you should know that despite your efforts, the case presented by Ms. Tasker was strong enough on its own merits for your petition to be denied. Your actions only serve to increase the confidence in my decision. The only thing left for me to decide with regards to you is whether you'll be sharing a holding cell with your client or one next to it. I'll let you know my decision on that shortly."
Brian had crept over to Lisa and passed her a note while the judge was speaking. After she finished reading it, she passed it on to Marissa who glanced at it. When the judge was done, the redhead spoke up.
"Your honor, I've just been informed that Sam is here and would like to come in."
"I think that's a very good idea, Ms. Tasker. Have her come in."
Brian went outside and returned a moment later with Sam.
The teen looked nervous, anxious. Her future was being determined after all.
"Miss Robinson, would you please join your lawyers?"
Sam nodded and stood in between Marissa and Claudia.
"Now, Miss Robinson. Could I call you Sam?"
"Yes, ma'am."
"Thank you. Sam, I have a couple of questions for you. I need you to answer them honestly so I'm going to have the bailiff swear you in, alright?"
"Okay."
After Sam was sworn in, the judge began to speak again. "According to Mrs. Parnell, you told her that you wanted to live with the Walkers. Is that correct?"
"Yes, your honor, it is."
"Is it true that you want them to adopt you?"
"Yes, it is."
"Thank you. That's all I need. I'm ready …"
Sam looked at Marissa who knew what the teen had on her mind. The redhead nodded and gave the teen the shot of courage she needed.
"Your honor, could I say something please?"
The judge nodded. "Alright. This is about you. Go ahead."
"Thank you." Sam cleared her throat. "I love Gail and Alex and Grandma, Carol. They gave me something I didn't think I'd ever have the chance to have again. They gave me a home and a family. When I lost my Mom and Dad, I lost me too. They helped me get my head back on straight and figure out what I want to do with my life. I still miss my Mom and Dad. I always will, but Marissa told me that it was okay to and that it'd get a little better with time. She was right. She also told me that they'd be okay with me opening myself up and finding another home, another family. They'd understand that I wasn't forgetting them and that they'd want me to be happy and someone to take care of me. I thought about for a while, and I think Marissa's right about that too." Sam glanced over her shoulder at the Walkers and flashed them a smile before turning back to the judge. "I think. No, I know that my Mom and Dad would like them and would trust them to take care of me. I trust them and love them. I'd really like them to be able to adopt me. I don't need them to though because they already are my family. It'd just be nice for it to be legal. That's all I have. Thanks for listening."
Judge Kagan smiled. "You're welcome, Sam. Usually, this would be the time for your lawyer to give her closing arguments. Ms. Tasker, do you have anything else?"
Marissa shook her head. "No, your honor. I don't think there is anything I could add to what Sam just said."
"Very well. I think you're right. I'm ready to give you my decision. This has been an interesting case to say the least, and it's definitely had more than its share of unpleasant moments. Throughout these proceedings though, I've noticed a few things. You, Sam, have quite a few people looking out for you. Chiefly among them is that woman standing next to you. She's an excellent lawyer and did some pretty amazing work on your behalf. The other people looking out for you are the Walkers. It's easy to see how much they love you, and after listening to you just now, it's easy to see how much you love them. I am therefore granting the Walkers petition for custody and approving their request to adopt you. Have a good life, Sam. You deserve it. Court is adjourned."
The teen quickly glanced at Marissa. "It's over? I'm their daughter?"
Marissa nodded happily. "Yes, it's over. You are officially Sam Robinson Walker."
Sam jumped up and down and hugged the redhead before spinning around and practically leaping into the waiting arms of Gail, Alex and Carol. The four hugged each other tightly as happy tears flowed from the eyes of practically everyone in the courtroom, and the spectators applauded the happy outcome.
The judge was speaking quietly to the bailiff who nodded and turned towards Pete.
Marissa stepped forward, wanting to give the man a small piece of her mind. "I'm curious, Pete. What's the answer to the judge's question? Was it worth it?" Getting no answer, she continued. "You're pathetic. I'm curious about something else. Did bullying a teenaged girl make you feel like a man? You were going to destroy an innocent girl's future because you couldn't accept the truth. You're a lot like Robert Brennan. You remember him, don't you? He's the guy who was running around free and tried to beat his wife to death because you didn't do your job. He also tried to kill me because, unlike you, I was doing mine. You did all this because you couldn't accept the fact that that you have no one else to blame for what's happened in your life but you. Hopefully, you'll get a clue this time because if you ever go after the people I care about again, this will all look like a day in park." The redhead turned and saw a beaming Bianca and pleased Erica.
The diva stepped forward and handed the gift bag to the disgraced lawyer. "I have something for you, Mr. Taylor. You don't deserve it because I know you wouldn't be able to cut it there without outside help. I couldn't help myself though."
Pete was confused and pulled out a sweatshirt. On the front of it was the logo for Pine Valley University. It seemed Erica remembered the dig he had made about Marissa's education. The man threw the sweatshirt on the floor in disgust and was about to speak when he was pulled away by the bailiff. "Where the hell are you taking me?"
The bailiff wore a slightly amused look. "You remember what the judge said. I'm taking you to a holding cell because you're in contempt of court. Come on, it's time to go. Oh, it's kind of crowded down there so you will be sharing a cell with your client."
Bianca gave her wife a chaste kiss. "You were brilliant."
"Binx is right, Red. That was great." Kendall grinned as she, Zach and Greenlee joined them.
Zach nodded. "I have to agree with Kendall. You're going to have tell us about everything and how you set all of this up. It sounds like it's probably a pretty good story."
"Thanks, but I couldn't have done it without my team and Bianca. The Walkers were pretty impressive too."
"Speaking of impressive, I loved the sweatshirt, Erica. Very nice." Greenlee grinned.
"Thank you. I rather liked it myself. I do have a question, Marissa."
"What's that, Erica?"
"You knew the Walkers' home was bugged but those conversations …"
"Were scripted."
"What?" Kendall couldn't quite believe her ears.
"Yeah, Claudia and Lisa worked on the scripts, and the Walkers were reading what we had written down for them. We were all there at the house for their various performances. That might have been my favorite part."
Bianca shook her head and kissed her wife again. "Brilliant and kickass."
Marissa gazed at her favorite brunette. "Thank you for all of your support during this. I couldn't have done any of this without it and you."
"Excuse me. Marissa, thank you so much." Carol was wearing a smile so bright that it could power all of Pine Valley. "We'll never be able to repay you for this. Thank you."
Marissa hugged the older woman. "You are most certainly welcome, and you don't owe me anything. This was right, and I'm glad I could help."
"You did more than that. Carol's right. We can't thank you enough." Gail and then Alex hugged the redhead tightly.
"If you ever need anything, you let us know, and we'll be there."
"Thanks, Alex."
"Thanks again, Marissa. You too, Bianca. I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for both of you." Sam hugged the couple. The teen was on cloud nine.
"You're welcome, Sam."
"Hey, it's a weeknight and Sam's got school tomorrow. So, everyone's invited over to the house on Saturday to celebrate." Gail stated happily. The family didn't want to jinx anything by planning a party before the verdict was given.
"We'll be there."
Marissa caught the eye of her fellow partners who nodded their approval before leaving. They were impressed with her performance and knew without a doubt that they had made the right decision in making her a partner. They would all meet tomorrow for a debriefing.
The courtroom began to clear after congratulations were shared with the now four member of the Walker family as well as Marissa and her team.
"We should go too, Rissa. The kids will be waiting for us and wanting to know what happened today."
Marissa nodded and began to gather her belongings. An older man stepped forward in the now empty courtroom.
"Ms. Tasker, could I have a word, please?"
The redhead recognized him immediately as Phillip Taylor, Pete's father. "Of course, Mr. Taylor. How can I help you?"
"I'd like to apologize for my son's actions. They were reprehensible, and there is simply no excuse for them. When I think of what could've happened to that girl if he had succeeded, it makes me sick. He won't be getting any further help from me or my wife until he accepts responsibility for what he's done. We've coddled him for far too long. It ends today." He reached into his jacket pocket, pulled out an envelope and handed it to the redhead. "I know this doesn't make up for what he's done to her and her family, but I do hope they'll accept it as maybe a start. If there is anything I can do for you or them, please don't hesitate to call." Phillip handed her his card.
"Thank you."
"You're welcome. I trust you'll know who to make it out to. Good day, and excellent work today."
The couple watched as the man left.
"What'd he give you to give to Sam?"
Marissa opened the envelope and gasped. "It's a check for $50,000."
"Seriously? Wow. Pete is definitely nothing like his father."
"You've got that right. I'll tell them about it tomorrow and give it to them Saturday, and you know they'll be putting it straight into her trust fund. Let's go home."
"That sounds perfect. Maybe later and the kids are in bed, we can celebrate your win because I've got to say that you were sexy as hell today, and I do love watching you work." Bianca grinned mischievously as she kissed her wife, leaving no doubt as to the type of celebration she had in mind.
Marissa hummed in approval when they separated. "I do love how you think."
/
A/N: I managed to lock my evil side up for a little bit. Oh to those in the States, I know this is a week early, but Happy Independence Day!