A/N: Thanks for continuing to read, follow and review! It means a lot. I'm glad you liked the new characters. There is one more in this chapter that I'm introducing, and I hope you like her as well. Okay, it is thankfully a 3 day weekend here in the States, and I couldn't be happier. I don't really have any big plans other than resting. Back to the story. This chapter picks up where the last one left off. Hope you enjoy this update!
/
Bianca turned to Jo. "So, is this where you grill me and tell me I better not hurt Marissa?"
Jo smiled. She really liked her friend's wife. "Normally, I would, but I have a feeling I don't need to tell you that. I've seen how you look at her, and I see the smile on her face and in her eyes when she's looking at you. I don't have to worry about you hurting her. Plus, there's also the fact that you were ready to rip Shelly a new one. I'm sorry if I stepped on your toes there."
"Yes, I was. People can say anything they want to about me, and they have. I won't let them do that to Marissa though. She's been through too much. I don't think I have to tell you that not a word of what that woman said was true."
"You're right, you don't. I know Marissa. She's not like that. Everyone here knows that, despite what Shelly says to the contrary."
"Like I said before, there's no need to apologize. You did one hell of a job ripping Shelly up. I'm very impressed."
"Coming from the daughter of Erica Kane, I will take that as a huge compliment."
"Good because it is one."
Jo grew thoughtful. "I owed Marissa."
"From that time at the pool?"
"Yeah. My Dad had issues when I was growing up. He had these massive mood swings that made it hard for me to have a lot friends. One day, he'd be up and the life of the party. The next, he couldn't make it out of bed and just stayed in the dark all day. Today, we would diagnose him as having a bipolar disorder and that he was suffering through manic and depressive episodes. Back then, there really wasn't a name for it, and as a result, it wasn't treated properly. Today, there's medication that helps regulate it. A lot of kids stayed away and made fun of him and me. Not Marissa though. She was my rock and helped me get through the worst of it. Dad finally couldn't handle it anymore and killed himself. Mom found him." Jo paused to collect herself as she recalled that painful time in her life. Her voice cracked when she started again. "It was when we were in 8th grade and was without a doubt the worst time in my life."
"I'm so sorry."
"Thank you. The Taskers were there for me, my Mom and my grandma whenever we needed them. Marissa became my personal protector. No one said anything about my Dad around me. If they did, they'd have to deal with her, and I'm sure you know what the wrath of that redhead is like."
Bianca smiled. "I do. She stepped in when my ex-wife tried to take my girls, and that was before our relationship turned romantic. You can imagine what Rissa was like after we were together and my ex came back thinking she had a chance with me and thought she could do it by going through the girls."
"Wow. Is she still alive?"
"Barely, and that's only because Rissa showed a tremendous amount of restraint. So, that day at the pool …"
Jo nodded. She couldn't get over how easy it was to talk to Bianca. The brunette definitely had a way about her that made opening up about her Dad easy, something she'd only been able to do with her mother and Marissa. "Shelly went after me, partly because she didn't like me and partly because she knew it would get to Marissa. Cory was right. Shelly was downright vicious. I've never been through anything like that before, and it tore me up inside. I just wanted to curl up in ball and cry. Marissa laid into her. Shelly had a couple inches on her, but that didn't matter to our girl." Jo glanced around to see if anyone was listening. "After administering a verbal beat down, she gave her a real one. Marissa hauled off and decked her. Shelly got spun around and fell into the pool. We all knew what happened, and more importantly, we all knew what would happen if any of the teachers or administrators found out. Marissa would either have been suspended or expelled. It was a week before graduation. There was no way we could let that happen. I mean, Marissa was just protecting a friend, me. If she got kicked out, Shelly would win and who knows what would've happened to Marissa. So, we formed a wall of silence of sorts. Marissa didn't ask us to do it. It was all our idea. She was willing to face the consequences, but we couldn't let that happen. We weren't going to let that happen. So, Shelly went to a teacher and told them what happened. Of course in her version, she was completely blameless, and Marissa attacked her without cause."
"Your version?"
"From what we saw, Shelly slipped and fell into the pool. I think they probably knew the truth, but they couldn't do anything because there were no witnesses to back up Shelly's account. To this day, that wall is still in place. It's not that Shelly could do anything to Marissa about it now. It's more a matter a principle. What I said to Shelly, I meant. There's not much I wouldn't do for your wife. It kills me that we lost touch, and I don't want that to happen again. I can't tell you how much I wish I could've been there more for her after her parents died. She said it was kind of nuts for a bit."
Bianca could tell that Marissa hadn't gone into her story fully. This wasn't really the place for her to do it. "From the parts I witnessed after she came to Pine Valley, it was. She got through it though. She's stronger than she gives herself credit for."
"Don't I know it."
"Rissa understands and knows that you would've been there more for her if you could have."
"Thank you for that. She seems really happy now, at peace. Thank you."
"For what?"
"For being there for her, appreciating her, understanding her, loving her."
"How could I not? She's remarkable, and I'm very lucky to have her in my life. There's nothing I wouldn't do for her. You know, she actually represented me in my divorce."
"Really? She didn't get the chance to tell me that yet."
"That was the real start of our friendship, and that's all it was while she was my lawyer."
"Yeah, Marissa isn't the type to cross that line. She wouldn't have wanted to give any appearance of impropriety which could've damaged your case."
"Exactly. Rissa helped keep me together during that time, and because of her, I was able to keep my girls. After the divorce was final, we would get together and talk, and before I knew it, I was in love with her. I have to admit that I was terrified when I realized that."
"Why?"
"She was straight."
Jo simply grinned. "Oh yeah, that. Well, it would seem maybe not so much."
Bianca laughed. "Very true, but I was still scared. Rissa had become my best friend, and I didn't want to lose her. I was afraid that if I told her how I felt that I would."
"Obviously, something changed. What happened?" Jo was curious how the couple gotten passed their fears to get to where they were now.
"Fortunately for us, we had some help and were nudged into taking that leap of faith and confessing our feelings for each other. I've never been so happy to have my sister pester me." Bianca laughed.
"Marissa said that she and your mom get along."
"They do, and I can tell you that that is something that has never happened with any of my former partners. It's very gratifying. Are you seeing anyone?"
"I am, and my Mom likes him. So, I know what you mean. I'd really like Marissa to meet him."
"I'm sure she would like that. For what it's worth, I'm glad you're back in her life."
"Thank you. That really does mean a lot to me."
"Now, I have to give my sister just a little dirt on Marissa when I get back. What have you got?"
"Her and your sister get along?"
"Oh yeah. It's scary sometimes how much they do along with Greenlee. When the three of them get together, I never know what's going to happen. Rissa gives as good as she gets. They respect her and truly like her. Don't worry though. I'll give Rissa some dirt on Kendall in return."
Jo laughed. "Alright, I have a few stories I can share."
/
"And how she didn't break her neck, I'll never know."
Bianca laughed. "So, I'm going to need to keep an eye our little one climbing, huh?"
"What's going on?" Marissa eyed the two women suspiciously.
"Nothing. Just sharing a few stories with your lovely wife." Jo answered innocently.
Marissa shook her head not buying her friend's innocent act for one second.
"I didn't know you were such a good climber. How did you manage to get to the top of the water tower and not break your neck?
"Ah, it's a talent. We're not sharing that story with the kids."
"Oh no, we definitely aren't. We don't need them getting any ideas."
"If you don't mind, Jo, I'm going to steal my wife for a few minutes because I really want to dance with her. What do you say, B? Will you do me the honor of this dance?" Marissa held out her hand. "I have it on very good authority that the next song will be a slow one."
Bianca grinned. "Oh, you do, do you?"
"I do."
"Are you sure you want to do this?" Throughout the evening, Bianca had seen the looks and heard the whispers directed their way. While those actions were in the minority, it did confirm that Shelly wasn't the only one who didn't view their relationship in a favorable light. Bianca didn't care about herself because she'd been through it many times before, but she care about Marissa and didn't want her time in Devon ruined.
Marissa simply smiled brightly. "I'm positive, and I don't give a damn what anyone else says or thinks."
Bianca sighed happily. "Well then, I would love to dance with you."
"Good. We'll be back, Jo."
"Have fun. Don't mind me." Jo chuckled as she watched her friend lead the brunette to the dance floor, the couple only having eyes for each other. The doctor then quickly scanned the room for anyone who might give the couple a hard time. Jo noted that Cory and her husband Chris were headed to the dance floor themselves and knew they would keep an eye on things out there.
/
Bianca couldn't hold back the smile on her face as 'A Thousand Years' began to play. She knew Marissa had requested the song because it was one of Bianca's favorites. In fact, it was a close second as the song for their first dance at their wedding.
Heart beats fast
Colors and promises
How to be brave?
How can I love when I'm afraid to fall?
But watching you stand alone,
All of my doubt suddenly goes away somehow.
One step closer
"I love this song."
"I know."
"Not as much as I love you though."
"I know that too."
I have died every day waiting for you
Darling, don't be afraid I have loved you
For a thousand years
I'll love you for a thousand more
Time stands still
Beauty in all she is
I will be brave
I will not let anything take away
What's standing in front of me
Every breath
Every hour has come to this
One step closer
"Are you having a good time?"
"Yeah, I really am. What about you?"
"I am too. Cory is really nice, and I like her." Bianca paused knowing that Marissa wanted to know what she thought about Jo. "As for Jo, you don't have anything to worry about. I think she's great."
"You do?" Marissa couldn't hide her relief.
"Yep. She really let Shelly have it. You girls from Devon are tough. Seriously, she cares about you a lot, and I'm grateful for that. She told me how you were there for her when she was going through everything with her dad. That just confirmed for me how incredible you are."
"I just did what any friend would do. Wow, she told you about her dad. She must really like you. That doesn't really surprise me though. You are likeable and loveable."
Bianca chuckled and pulled Marissa closer. "Right back at ya, Counselor."
The couple continued their dance, only having eyes for each other, a common occurrence those back home in Pine Valley were all too familiar with.
I have died every day waiting for you
Darling, don't be afraid I have loved you
For a thousand years
I'll love you for a thousand more
And all along I believed I would find you
Time has brought your heart to me
I have loved you for a thousand years
I'll love you for a thousand more
One step closer
One step closer
I have died every day waiting for you
Darling don't be afraid I have loved you
For a thousand years
I'll love you for a thousand more
And all along I believed I would find you
Time has brought your heart to me
I have loved you for a thousand years
I'll love you for a thousand more
When the song ended and the couple separated, Bianca caught some movement out of the corner of her eye. "I see they're putting out the desserts."
Marissa followed Bianca's gaze. "Ooh those look pretty good, especially the triple chocolate layer cake, and while our little one is definitely interested, Sparky is resting on my bladder right now."
Bianca offered her wife a sympathetic smile. She remembered that side effect of pregnancy all too well. "How about you take care of our little one, and I'll get us something? Yes, it will include that cake."
"Sounds perfect, and thank you." Marissa gave her wife a quick kiss before heading off to the ladies' room.
/
"I can't believe anyone thinks that relationship is anything but sick and disgusting. Did you see how they were hanging all over each other out there? It made me want to throw up. It's unnatural, and now, they are bringing a child into it. Given Marissa's past, you know how she got pregnant, probably a 'client'."
"I don't know why you have such a problem with them, Shelly. They were just dancing. Hell, there were others that I thought were just going to do it right there on the dance floor, ones that are married to other people."
"Ain't that the truth?! Besides, Jo and Cory were right. The charges against Marissa were dropped. They wouldn't have done that if they thought she had done something illegal, and she was only working there to earn money for school."
"You can believe that if you want, but I don't buy it for one second. And now, all of a sudden, she's into women? Please, give me a break. She's only after all of that Montgomery money, and her wife is so stupid she can't see it." Shelly only paused when she noticed the eyes of the women she had been talking to grow wide. The blonde whipped around and found Bianca standing behind her with the Kane death glare on full blast. Shelly gulped and tried to lessen the damning words she had just uttered. She wouldn't admit it out loud, but the brunette was intimidating.
"I didn't see you there."
"Obviously."
"It's not what you think. You're not getting the entire picture and didn't understand what I meant."
"Please, enlighten me then. What part did I misinterpret? Was it the part where you accused Marissa of being a whore when she lived here? Or was it the part where you said that there was something wrong about our marriage? I believe you used the words 'sick and disgusting' and that it made you 'want to throw up'. Or was it my personal favorite where you called me stupid, my wife still a whore because she married me for my money making our marriage a sham and that we're harming our children? Please tell me what I got wrong."
"Uh …"
"Yeah, that's what I thought. Let me see if I can clear this up for you one last time. Marissa was innocent. She did nothing wrong. The fact that the charges against her were dropped bears that out. I know all about her past, everything that she's been through and survived. She hasn't hidden anything from me. I know who she is, the type of person she is and trust her completely. Not that I have to justify to someone as small-minded and prejudiced as you, but our marriage is built on love and there is nothing wrong or sick or disgusting about it. That's your problem. Our children are happy, healthy and well-adjusted. Now, I understand that a narcissistic bitch like you might not understand any of that, and quite frankly, I don't give a damn if you do or not. In the grand scheme of things, you mean absolutely zero to me. If I hear you talk about my wife like that again though, you will regret it. That's not a threat. That is a promise. I hope I'm making myself perfectly clear because I won't be saying any of this again to you. You get one warning, and frankly, you're lucky I'm even giving you that. Any questions?"
Shelly shook her head.
"Good." Bianca gave her a tight smile and walked over to the table holding the desserts along with Cory's husband Chris who was trying his best not to bust out laughing.
/
Shelly cleared her throat and turned back to her friends and tried to play off the incident like it was nothing. "Well, she's just lucky that I didn't feel like causing a big scene."
The others were clearing not buying it. They saw the fear in her eyes. If it came down to it, their money would be on the brunette, and if the truth be told, they enjoyed the verbal tongue lashing Shelly had been given. They'd grown tired of her antics over the years. That's why they didn't stop Shelly from digging a new hole for herself by warning her of what they could see coming.
"Trust me, I was about to let her have it. Who does she think she is coming here and talking to me like that? If I had half a mind, I'd show her who rules here."
Cory had observed what had happened. She was impressed with her friend's wife. When she heard Shelly going off again as soon as Bianca's back was turned, she just couldn't help herself, especially since she knew the brunette had overheard what was being said again. "Hey, Bianca."
Shelly stammered and whipped around again. This time, however, she walked straight into one of the pies that was to be cut and served. She shrieked as the front of her shirt was covered in a bright red, sticky confection.
"Look at what you did! This blouse is an original Stella McCartney! It's worth thousands! You will pay dearly for this!"
Bianca was not bothered in the least bit. Erica Kane's daughter was on full display. "Yeah, I don't think so. First, you can't prove it wasn't an accident. Second, unlike you, I know fashion, and what is and isn't an original. That is a clear knockoff. There's nothing wrong with that, but it's still a knockoff and not worth thousands. I'd say you got it for $50 at a department store."
Shelly lunged at Bianca who sidestepped the attack causing the blonde to crash into a server holding another pie. This time, her face took the brunt of the dessert. She screamed and rushed off towards the ladies' room but not before having a large glass of punch splashed on her.
"AAAAAHHHHHHHHH!" With that, she ran out of the gym.
/
Bianca glanced over and saw a smirking redhead holding an empty glass.
Jo was laughing along with many others.
"I guess that was an accident too, huh?" Jo asked her friend.
Marissa shrugged. "Sure, we'll go with that."
Bianca walked over to her wife. "I seem to recall you not liking punch right now."
"I was thirsty and willing to drink it no matter how much I don't like it?"
"Okay, like you said, we'll go with that."
"Strawberry or cherry?"
"I think it was both. I had strawberry, and the server had cherry. That reminds me." Bianca turned and handed the servers some cash to make up for the ruined desserts.
Jo shook her head and grinned. "I just have to say that I have really missed you, Marissa, and Bianca, it is so good to know you. The two of you are perfect for each other and definitely not boring."
Bianca returned the grin. "Thanks! Likewise, Jo." The brunette then held out a plate containing a large piece of chocolate cake for her wife.
"Thank you. I'm glad the chocolate cake was saved!" Marissa plucked two forks from the table and grabbed Bianca's free hand. "Let's go eat this. Sparky really wants some cake."
"Yeah, I don't think the baby is the only one."
/
The night wore on, and the mood of all was lightened considerably by a certain blonde's absence. Bianca and Marissa hit the dance floor a few more times and good conversations took place with old friends reconnecting. The reunion was drawing to a close, and some didn't want to see the evening end.
Callie and Paul popped back over to the couple's table.
"Hey, some of us were talking, and we're going to head over to The Pub after this. Anyone interested?"
Cory and Chris looked at each other and nodded. "We're in. We've got a babysitter all night, and we're going to take advantage of it."
Jo shrugged. "I'm up for going for a little while."
Bianca looked at her wife to gauge her interest. The decision was hers.
Marissa sighed. She wanted to go to the local hangout, but the redhead was exhausted. The further along she got in her pregnancy, the easier she tired. "I think we're going to pass. I'm beat, guys. I hope you don't hold it against me or think I'm old."
Cory smiled. "I remember what it was like when I was pregnant with Matt so don't worry about it. You just have to make sure you take care of yourself."
"Thanks. I've got an idea. Do you all want to meet up tomorrow morning for breakfast?"
"Pancake Pantry?" Jo asked hopefully.
"Is there any place else?"
Jo's eyes lit up. "I'm in then dammit. I don't know the last time I was there. I can just taste those pancakes now. Hmm, I wonder which ones I'll get tomorrow."
"We're in." Chris chimed in. "I know Cory and I live here, but we really don't go as much as we could. It's probably a good thing. I'd be as big as a house, and my wife might not think I'm as hot."
"You're assuming I think you're hot now." Cory deadpanned.
Chris just grinned at her in reply, and she cracked. "Alright, you're a little hot. We'll definitely be there."
"Callie and I will spread the word. See you tomorrow." Paul and Callie left the group to tell others of the next day's plans.
"The Pancake Pantry?" Bianca asked.
"They have the best pancakes around. You, my dear wife, are in for a treat. They have Swiss chocolate chip pancakes that you are going to love."
Bianca smiled brightly. "Who am I to say no to those?"
Marissa laughed. "I thought as much." The redhead turned to her friends. "We're going to head out. See you tomorrow morning."
Hugs were exchanged, and Cory and Chris went to gather their things.
Jo smiled. "Get some rest, and I'll see you both tomorrow. We've got a lot of catching up to do."
"Yes, we do. See you tomorrow, Jo." With one last hug, Marissa and Bianca left for the bed & breakfast.
/
Marissa and Bianca were seated at a large table perusing the menu when Jo joined them the next morning.
"Good morning, you two."
Bianca smiled warmly. "Good morning."
"Morning, Jo. So, what happened after we left?" Marissa asked.
"I only stayed for like half an hour, but let's see." Before she could continue, Jo's phone rang. The doctor smiled when she read the caller id and handed the phone to her friend. "Why don't you answer this for me, Marissa?"
The redhead looked at the name showing on the screen and grinned. "My pleasure. Good morning. Josephine Shelton's phone."
There was a pause on the other end of the line. The woman on the other end could count on one hand the number of people who called the owner of the phone Josephine. "Who is this?"
"Wow. Has it been that long that you don't recognize my voice?"
"Oh my goodness! Marissa! I could never forget you. How are you?"
"I'm really good, Mrs. Shelton."
"Oh, I know you did not call me 'Mrs. Shelton'! That is my former mother-in-law and not me! You know better."
Marissa laughed. "That I do. How are you, Jessica?"
"I am much better now that I'm talking to you. It has been way too long."
"Yes, it has."
"Good morning, Mom!" Jo called out.
"Tell my daughter I said good morning, and I'll talk to her later. Right now, I'm going to talk to you."
Marissa put the phone on speaker. "Your Mom said she likes me better and wants to talk to me now."
Jessica let out a hearty laugh and could tell she was on speaker. "Now, that is supposed to be just between us. You're not supposed to tell her that."
"Gee thanks, Mom. Nice to see some things haven't changed." Jo smirked.
"Oh hush, Josephine. You know I love you."
"Yes, I do. Talk to your other daughter."
"Alright, Marissa, what is new in your life?"
Others started filtering in, and Marissa glanced at Bianca who simply smiled knowing what her wife was thinking. The redhead wanted a few minutes to talk to her friend's mom, a woman who meant a great deal to her.
"Go ahead. I know what to order for you."
"Thank you!" Marissa gave her wife a quick kiss and patted her friend on the shoulder.
Jo nodded. She knew how much it meant for both women to talk.
"Well, Jessica, I have 3 wonderful kids with a 4th on the way: two girls, a boy and we're waiting to find out what I'm having. The two girls are my wife's, and the boy is my son, adopted from my first marriage." Marissa began as she stepped away from the table.
/
"Hold on a minute. You're divorced?"
"Yes. My ex-husband is AJ's, that my son, biological father. I have full custody though."
"What happened?"
"With the marriage?"
"Yes."
"It's a very long story which I will be more than happy to share with both you and Jo when we have more time. I'll just say that his former mistress is locked up as a result of everything that happened."
"Oh my. You're okay though?"
"I am. I'm tough. You know that."
"Yes, I do. Alright. We'll just say good riddance to bad rubbish. Now, you currently have three children?"
Marissa smiled. She knew the other woman was slowly making her way to the big question she had for the redhead. "Yes, AJ, Miranda and Gabby. They are great kids. I know they're not perfect, but we think they're pretty darn close. Miranda and AJ will be 10 in two months. Wow, that's hard to believe. They share the same birthday and call themselves the 'birthday twins'. And before you ask, yes, there is a long story there as well. Gabby will be six in a few months and started kindergarten last fall. That was tough."
Jessica chuckled. "Yes, it always is. I still remember Jo's first day. It's a wonder I made it through. So, you're expecting?! How are you feeling? When are you due? Do you know what you're having?"
"I am! I'm feeling okay and definitely glad the morning sickness has eased up. I'm due at the beginning of April. Bianca and I went to a clinic in New York, chose a donor and underwent artificial insemination. It took a couple of tries before it happened. We don't know what we're having. We want to be surprised, and it doesn't matter to us what we have as long as the baby is healthy."
"I definitely understand that." Jessica paused. "Your wife, her name is Bianca? Tell me about her."
"Yes. Her name is Bianca Montgomery. Actually, it's Tasker-Montgomery. We hyphenate in our personal lives. Professionally, it's easier for us to go by our maiden names since we were already established in our careers. She's incredible, Jessica. She's smart, funny, beautiful, caring and kind. I've never met anybody like her. I know it's a shock that I'm with a woman, and I'll be honest with you. I was pretty surprised myself, but I didn't see it. It was so easy, and our friendship just grew and before I knew it I was in love with her." Marissa held her breath.
"Does she treat you well?"
"She treats me very well. Bianca lets me know every day how much she loves me. It's something I never doubt. I also never doubt how much I love her. I've never been happier, and I know in my heart that Mom and Dad would love her."
"That's all I need to know then." Jessica cleared her throat overwhelmed by emotion. "If she makes you happy, that's good enough for me. That's all I've ever wanted for you, baby."
Marissa nodded and swallowed the lump that had formed in throat. "Thank you. That means so much to me. I'd really like for you to meet her."
"I'd like that myself. Wait. So, she's Bianca Montgomery?!"
"Jo had the same reaction." Marissa laughed.
"From everything I've read, she is everything you've said."
"She really is. She's all that and more. I really don't have enough words to describe her."
Jessica laughed. "You not have enough words?! That is something because you were never speechless. You're not going to believe this, but I have some free time and wanted to do something meaningful with it. So yesterday, I signed up to volunteer at the Miranda Center here in New York. I was going to tell Jo about it when she got home."
"You're kidding me? Wow. They do wonderful work there, and you will fit in perfectly. You have a lot to offer them, and they are lucky to have you. I won't say a word about it to her."
"Thank you. I wish there would have been some place like that for me to go to years ago, but they weren't really around."
"No, they weren't unfortunately. I think it would have been helpful for both of you. Jo told me that you're pursuing photography full time. I think it's great."
"I do too. It helps me get centered and get through a great many things. What about you?"
"I'm a lawyer. I was made partner a few months ago. My firm is now called Thompson, Stevens, Montgomery, Cortlandt and Tasker. I specialize in family law."
"Good for you! Your Mom and Dad would be so proud of you."
"I'd like to think so. I'd love to keep talking, but I really should get back. A group of us are having breakfast at the Pancake Pantry."
"Oh, I miss that place. You're right you should go. Promise me that we won't lose touch again."
"I promise. Jo and I already traded numbers and email addresses, and I'll get your number from her before she leaves. I'm definitely not losing touch with either of you again. I love you both."
"Good. We love you too, Marissa. Now, tell Josephine to drive carefully, and I expect her to fill me in on everything that happened there when she gets home."
"I will, and I'm going to talk to you soon."
/
"Josephine, your Mom told me to tell you to drive carefully and that she expects a full report of everything that happened when you get home."
Jo rolled her eyes. She could tell by Marissa's cheeky grin that her mother had said exactly that. "Thanks to you, I'm going to have a lot to tell her."
"Don't forget your part in all of it." Marissa reminded her friend. "Thanks for letting me talk to her."
"Are you kidding me? If she found out you were here and I didn't have you talk to her, she'd have my hide. You're welcome."
"So, I promised your mom that we would stay in touch, and I have every intention of keeping that promise."
"Me too."
"Good. When you get home, check your calendar, and let me know when you're free. We'll figure something out."
"Sounds good to me."
"That includes you too, Cory."
"I'm in. Maybe we can do a road trip to Pine Valley?"
Jo nodded. "I like it."
/
A short while later, after breakfast was finished, friends reluctantly said goodbye. Cory hugged Jo and Marissa and made them promise to drive carefully and to stay in touch.
"It was nice meeting you, Bianca. I hope to see you again soon."
"It was nice meeting you too, Cory. Same here."
Finally, it was just Marissa, Bianca and Jo.
"Oh, Marissa, it was so good seeing you. I'm really glad I came. I almost didn't. Mom told me I would probably regret it if I didn't. I hate when she's right."
Marissa laughed. "She's right a lot. I had some encouragement myself, and I'm glad I listened. Be careful driving home and stop if you get too tired."
"I will. You definitely have that mom-thing down." Jo turned to Bianca, and the two exchanged a hug. "It was really great meeting you. I'm glad you and Marissa found each other. I can tell you make her happy, and I'm forever grateful for that because she deserves it. Take care of our girl."
"I'm really glad I got to meet you too and not just for all of the stories you gave me about her. I can't tell you how grateful I am that she had you growing up and that you're back in her life. I promise that I will do my best to continue to make her as happy as she makes me and that I'll take care of her. If you get tired on the drive home, do what Marissa said. I hope to see you again very soon." Bianca turned to her wife. "Take your time."
"Thank you." Marissa watched as Bianca walked over to their car. "Somebody up there must really like me to have given me her."
"I think they must like her too. So, listen. You take care of yourself and don't overdo. I want to meet Sparky, and I want you around for a very long time."
"The same goes for me with you. I also can't wait to see your mom again. You're both family, and we can't have too much family. You call me when you get home so I know you got there okay. If you don't, you know I'm going to call your mom since I have her number now. She'll probably ground you for making me worry."
Jo laughed. "She'll try. I promise I'll call. Alright, I need to go before I start bawling my eyes out. You and Bianca be careful, and I'll see you soon. Love you."
"Love you too."
The friends hugged tightly before Marissa walked over to where Bianca was waiting for her. The couple waved while Jo gave a quick honk of her horn as she drove by.
"Are you okay?"
Marissa nodded. "Yeah, I am. Let's go home."
Bianca gave her a quick kiss and opened the door for her.
After they were both settled in with seatbelts on, Bianca pulled out of the lot and headed back to Pine Valley.
"Oh, it seems you have a new volunteer at the New York center."
"I do?"
"Yep, Jo's mom told me that she signed up to volunteer there yesterday."
"Wow, small world. From what Jo told me about her, she's a strong woman. I can see her being a big help there."
/
Monday rolled around, and the couple was meeting Kendall and Greenlee for lunch. The friends wanted a rundown on what had happened at the reunion. Marissa knew it would be useless to resist so she decided to get it over with and gave in to them.
Bianca was the last to join their group. "Sorry, I'm late."
"Don't worry, Binx. Red hasn't told us anything yet. She was waiting for you."
"Are you okay, Kendall?"
"Yeah, I just think I'm coming down with a bug of some sort. I'm going to run to the ladies' room for a minute. I'll be back. Don't start without me."
The room started spinning as soon as she stood up. Things then went black as Kendall collapsed.
/
A/N: If you can hear above my evil side's cackling, I have a couple of disclaimers. I don't own A Thousand Years. That is owned by Christina Perri. I just really like the song and have wanted to use it for our girls for some time. The opportunity presented itself with this chapter, and I just couldn't resist. 'The Pancake Pantry' is a real restaurant, and I don't own it either. I've been to the one in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and it's really good. If you're ever down that way, stop in because you won't regret it. One last disclaimer, 'The Pub' is a local place where I live (also don't own it).
Yeah, I did leave it there. My evil side's been kinda quiet lately. I think she's been resting. She's wide awake now though, obviously! See you soon!