A/N: Thanks for continuing to read, review and follow! It means a lot. Sorry for the late post. It's been a busy week without a lot of time to write. This chapter picks up where the last one left off. Hope you enjoy this update!

/

Jessica pulled back and studied the younger woman. She had known Marissa since she was just a few days old and was pretty good at telling when something was wrong. At this moment, she knew with absolute certainty that something was definitely up with the redhead, and Jessica was going to get to the bottom of it. She gently pulled her over to the sofa, and they both sat down. "Alright, I know that look. Out with it."

Marissa sighed heavily. She wasn't surprised that Jessica had easily been able to see that something was wrong. Even with the break where they had lost contact for a few years, the woman had known her longer than anyone else that was still around. Marissa wanted to cover her bases first before talking to her friend. "Fine, I'll tell you, but you can't tell Erica, Kendall, Zach or Greenlee. I need your word you won't say anything to them."

That condition had Jessica raise an eyebrow. It was very specific and had her slightly concerned. As much as she didn't want to, she had to accept it. "Alright, I promise I won't say anything to them about whatever you're going to tell me."

"Thank you. I told Bianca everything you told me about Erica going to David and what he did."

"How did that go?"

"Unfortunately, she was like me and not really surprised by his actions."

"I'm sorry."

Marissa shook her head. "You have nothing to apologize for. I'm glad you told me. I needed to know. Bianca and I discussed it and came up with a plan. It's one that neither of us are particularly fond of, but we really don't have a choice."

Jessica shook her head. "I'm a little confused. What's this plan, and why don't you have a choice?"

"I went to talk to David about what he was doing. It went pretty much like Bianca and I thought it would. He's going to help Kendall."

"I have a feeling I'm missing something, and it's something pretty big. I thought that him helping was supposed to be a good thing, but you're not acting like it is." Jessica then remembered what she'd heard about David. He never did anything just out of the goodness of his heart. There was always a price attached to his actions. "You made a deal with him, didn't you?"

Marissa nodded. "Yes, I did."

"What did it involve?"

"He wants to spend time with me, AJ and Sparky. Bianca and I expected it and were prepared. I agreed to it with certain stipulations which I've been working with Caleb on to have them drafted into a contract. It's funny. He was surprised that I wouldn't take his word about any of this."

"After everything he's done, you would think he would know better. I'm sorry about all of this. I can't help but think it's my fault. If I didn't tell you about my conversation with Erica, then none of this would be going on."

"Like I said before, it's not your fault. You were right in letting me know what was going on. Bianca and I would never forgive ourselves if there was something we could do to help Kendall and didn't. No, this is all on David. He's the one who's basically blackmailing us. What's sad is that I was considering doing some of the things he's demanding now. I mean, we were starting to get along, starting to build a relationship again. Now? That's pretty much been blown all to hell. How can I ever trust him again after this? David is the exact opposite of the example Bianca and I want for our children. The same goes for JR."

"I am so sorry the two of you are going through this. Is there anything I can do to help?"

"Just don't tell Erica and the others. I know how they are. They wouldn't hesitate to rip David to shreds, and the last thing we need right now is for any of them to end up in jail because he would make sure that's where they were." Marissa tried to lighten the mood with her last remark, but there was a kernel of truth to it.

"You have my word." Jessica would definitely keep her word and not tell Erica and the others. There was no way she would ever betray Marissa's trust, but there had to be some loophole for her, some way she could lessen the burden that Marissa and Bianca had taken on in order to help Kendall. "Are you doing okay? I know this can't be good for you and Sparky."

"I'm doing as well as can be expected. Caleb is helping us, and I trust him and know that he will make this contract ironclad so even David won't be able to slither his was out of it. Caleb is a prime example of someone we want in the kids' lives. He's a really good guy."

"He seemed like a good person, from the little I was able to gather from our conversation when I was here before."

Marissa grinned. "You know, he asked about you and seemed interested when I told him you were coming back to town."

Jessica blushed. "I don't know why."

"Seriously? You are an intelligent, thoughtful, engaging and beautiful woman. Why wouldn't he be interested? Besides, I saw the way the two of you looked at each other when you were talking, and when you weren't next to each other, I saw you both stealing little glances. It's okay to be interested in someone. It's been a long time."

"Yes, it has, and I haven't been living like a nun this whole time. I've dated some over the years, but …"

"I know what I went through with JR is not the same as what you went through with Hank, but I think I do understand it somewhat. After everything that happened with JR, I was ready to give up on love. I was convinced I wouldn't find someone to share my life with, but then, wouldn't you know if I didn't find someone just when I was pretty much done looking, and she was right in front of me the whole time. I'll be honest with you. It was scary as hell to take that first step and to put myself back out there, but it was so worth it. I've never been happier and can't imagine my life without Bianca. You went through a lot with Hank, way too much, but you survived. It's okay to be scared, but don't let that fear hold you back. You deserve to be happy. Jo wants you to be and so do I."

"Thank you. When did you get so smart?"

"I had excellent role models." Marissa grinned.

"Yes, you most certainly did." Jessica smiled at the redhead. "You remind me so much of your parents."

Marissa grinned even more. Hearing that meant more to her right now than she could ever say. "Thanks! Look, I know Jo and I teased you about him, but Caleb really is a good man, and personally, I think the two of you might be really good for each other. No pressure though. You have to do what's right for you. Just know that whatever you decide, you have my full support."

Jessica nodded. She had to admit that she did find Caleb interesting, and it had been quite some time since she could say something like that about anyone. Maybe, I'll give him a call and see if he wants to meet for coffee or lunch. It wouldn't hurt anything and wouldn't necessarily mean anything other than just lunch or coffee. "I don't suppose I could get his number from you, could I?"

"Hand me your phone, and I'll put it in for you." Marissa wanted to say more but didn't. She said she wouldn't put any pressure on Jessica, and she meant it. Asking for Caleb's number may have been seen by some who didn't know Jessica as a baby step, but Marissa knew it was far from that. It was a huge step forward.

For her part, Jessica was grateful that Marissa didn't say anything else on the matter after she programmed Caleb's number in the older woman's phone. Now that she had his number, Jessica just needed to find the courage to call him.

/

The following afternoon, everyone bundled up and headed to the Fun Zone for AJ's and Miranda's birthday party. There had been some discussion about having the big party, the one with the kids' friends, at home, but AJ and Miranda really wanted to have it at the Fun Zone so they could invite all of their friends. After giving it some thought, Bianca and Marissa agreed, for several reasons. The kids had been through a lot recently and could use a day where the focus was just on fun. Gabby was also allowed to invite a couple friends so she wouldn't get bored trying to keep up with the older kids. In addition to those things, having it somewhere other than at home made it easier on the couple, especially on Marissa who was nearly 8 months pregnant. They could enjoy the party and let someone else wrangle the large number of children in attendance as well as the decorating and clean up. When this party was over, they would have a small one at home just for family.

Jessica's mouth hung open as she walked inside the building and took everything in.

"Pretty impressive, huh?" Bianca asked seeing the older woman's expression.

"Very. If something like this had been around when Jo and Marissa were younger, maybe they wouldn't have been climbing water towers."

"I know, right?! See. We weren't doing anything that wrong. We just had a lot of excess energy." Marissa grinned.

"You keep telling yourself that, baby, and maybe, you'll start to believe it. As for me, I know otherwise." Jessica smirked before chuckling at the feigned hurt expression Marissa adopted.

"I'm truly hurt and wounded."

Bianca rolled her eyes, knowing her wife was anything but. "Come on. Let's check-in. I know three kids that are chomping at the bit to get this party started, especially our birthday twins."

The brunette's statement was met with excited nods before the kids started to drag the three women further inside. The family was greeted by a blonde woman in her early 20's.

"Welcome to the Fun Zone. What can we do for you today?"

"We have a party room reserved for Tasker-Montgomery." Marissa answered while Bianca and Jessica helped the kids remove their coats.

The blonde did a quick search on the iPad she carried and smiled brightly. "Oh yes, a joint birthday party for AJ and Miranda! It says here that you are 11 today! Happy birthday!"

"Thanks!"

"You're very welcome. My name is Taylor, and I'll be your Fun Zone guide today. If you all follow me, I'll show you to your room, and we can get this party started."

/

Not long after the family was settled in their private party room, guests started to arrive. Kids were hyped up and ready to attack the various activities available. Some of the parents decided to stay and help while others took advantage of an afternoon of free babysitting and left to return in a few hours when the party was over. The kids were let loose and would come back to the party room for a break for pizza and cake.

Ryan walked over to the couple after Emma dashed off with the other kids. "Greenlee said she will see you later at your place. Right now, she's on Kendall duty."

"I'm sure she has her hands full." Bianca smiled. Her sister wanted to be there for her niece and nephew, but they all thought it might be too much for her if she did both parties. So, Zach brought the boys to the party for AJ's and Miranda's friends, and Greenlee would bring Kendall over to Minx Manor for the family party later that day.

"She was actually behaving herself, well behaving herself for Kendall."

Bianca laughed. She knew this was hard for her sister, but Kendall was doing everything to insure the health of herself and her daughter. "For her, that's saying something."

/

Jessica watched as the kids ran to and fro, having a great time. "This place is amazing."

Marissa nodded. "It really is. The kids love it, and the staff is wonderful."

"How are you holding up?"

"I'm good. I'm glad we opted to have the friend party here. This would be a lot to clean up at home."

"Yes, it would have, and that's not including the food."

"Hi, Mrs. Tasker-Montgomery."

Marissa glanced down and was greeted by a young girl she knew well. "Amber! I'm glad you could make it."

Amber smiled. She could tell the redhead was surprised to see her. Amber had been invited, but given who her mother was, it was very much in doubt that she would be allowed to come. In fact, her mother had said no to the invitation without hesitating, leaving Amber crushed. "Mom's out of town visiting my grandma, and my dad had some errands he needed to run and didn't want to take me with him so he thought it was easier to drop me off here. Is that alright? I know I said I wasn't coming so I can understand if you're upset."

Marissa could see the sadness in the girl's eyes that accompanied that statement and reached out to hug her. "I'm not upset at all. Why would I be? It's more than alright, and I am very happy that you're here. Bianca and the kids will feel the same way."

The girl smiled brightly for a moment before her expression fell. "I don't have anything for Miranda and AJ."

"Don't worry about that. You being here is surprise enough for them."

"But I want to get them something. Everybody else has."

Marissa thought for a moment. It was easy for her to see that Amber didn't want to be embarrassed by not having a present, and Marissa didn't want that for the girl. "Alright, I think I have an idea. First, I want to introduce you to a very good friend of mine. Jessica, this is Amber. She's friends with both AJ and Miranda. She's a really good one too. Amber, this is Jessica."

Jessica leaned down and shook the girl's hand. "It's nice to meet you."

Amber smiled shyly. "You too."

"Okay, now for my idea. We can get them gift cards for here. They'll love it."

"But I don't have any money."

"You let me worry about that, okay? Don't even give it another thought. I just want you to have fun. Let's go pick out a couple of birthday cards for you to sign, and then, you can go catch up with the birthday twins. Sound good?"

Amber's smile returned, and she hugged Marissa tightly. "Thank you." The girl couldn't help but think how lucky her friends were, and she was also very glad her dad decided to drop her off. Amber knew she wouldn't be able to talk about the day at home, but knowing that it happened and having those memories was good enough for now.

"You're welcome. Let's go." Marissa gave Amber one last squeeze before letting her go. The girl headed towards the gift shop. The redhead whispered to a confused Jessica before following Amber. "I'll explain later."

Jessica nodded and joined the other two on their mission.

/

Bianca stealthily made her way next to her wife and slipped an arm around her waist.

Marissa turned and smiled. "Hey you."

"Hey yourself. Amber's here?" Bianca whispered.

"Yeah, Tammy's out of town, and her dad needed to run errands so …"

"Gotcha. Well, I'm glad she's here. She really is a sweet girl."

"Yes, she is. Who'd have thunk that she'd be such a good friend to the kids after what happened?"

"Very true. How are you doing?"

"Pretty good. I was just going to grab something to drink."

"I'll get you something, and join you if that's okay."

"That sounds perfect. In fact, I would love it. I'll grab us a seat."

Bianca gave her wife a quick kiss. "Sounds good. I'll be right back."

/

Marissa saw Jessica taking a break and decided to join her while she waited for Bianca to return.

"Mind if I join you?"

"Not at all, please do." Jessica patted an empty seat next to her.

"Bianca will be joining us too. She's just grabbing us something to drink."

"Good." Jessica looked around. "The kids seem like they are having the time of their lives."

"They do, and I'm really glad." Marissa studied her friend a moment. It was almost as if she was looking for someone in particular. "You okay?"

"Yeah, I'm fine."

"You sure? Are you expecting someone?"

Jessica sighed. "I was just wondering if Krystal or David would be showing up."

"Ah, they are going to be stopping by the house later. Why were you wondering about Krystal?" Seeing the expression on her friend's face, Marissa had a feeling she knew the answer to her own question. "You know, don't you? You know what happened with the kids."

"I do. Erica told me what happened. She thought I should know in case …"

Marissa cut Jessica off before she could finish. "I get it, and I'm not really surprised she told you."

"I don't know how they could've done something like that to anyone but especially to Bianca."

"You're not alone. I need to ask you a favor, and I know it's big and going to be tough for you. Could you please …"

"I won't cause a scene or anything like it, and I will do my best to behave myself. But, all bets are off if they hurt you, Bianca or the rest of your family."

"Thank you, and I would expect no less of you."

"Hey, Jessica. How are you doing?"

Jessica smiled as Bianca joined them. "To be honest, I'm a little tired just watching all of the kids. How do they have so much energy?"

Bianca chuckled. "I don't know, but I'd like just a little of it sometime."

"You and me both, B."

"So, what's the story with Amber?" Jessica asked.

Marissa sighed. "I'll give you the short version. Her mother doesn't approve of Bianca and me. She thinks it's unnatural, a sin. We, according to Tammy – that's her mom, are evil influences on the kids, and will burn in hell as a result of our immoral lifestyle."

"Don't forget our marriage is illegal and an abomination." Bianca smirked.

"You have got to be kidding me?!" Jessica was incredulous.

"Afraid not. She passed on those opinions to her daughter, and for a short time, Amber bullied Miranda. We found out and went to the school. Amber saw a counselor and turned herself around. So much so that she helped AJ when he was having a rough time because of JR. The three of them have become pretty good friends." Bianca explained.

The older woman shook her head. "She actually called your relationship a sin and an abomination?!"

"Yes, she even threw out some quotes from the bible during a PTA meeting where she cornered Rissa as evidence."

Jessica raised an eyebrow and glanced at the redhead. "She quoted the bible to you?" Jessica knew that Marissa was raised going to church every Sunday, was very active in it and knew her scripture quite well.

Marissa smiled. "Yep. I gave her a few quotes in return."

"I'm sure you did." Jessica could see the gleam in hazel eyes. It was one she knew well. Both of the redhead's parents would pounce if someone tried to use the bible as a way to justify their prejudices. Their daughter was the same way. "Good for you. I can't abide people who call themselves Christians and then pervert and twist the bible as proof that their hatred is condoned and commanded by god." Something clicked for Jessica. "You said her mother's name was Tammy? Is that the same woman who was in the dunking booth on Greenlee's video, the one that the two of you kept dunking?"

Bianca and Marissa wore matching proud grins as they recalled that afternoon.

"One and the same."

Jessica remembered the African-American woman and her taunting of the couple. She noted that her daughter's skin tone was lighter than hers. "I don't know if you'll know the answer to this, but is Amber's father white?"

Marissa nodded. "As a matter of fact, yes, he is."

"Does her mother even realize that not that long ago someone with our skin color couldn't marry someone with her husband's skin color? It was considered illegal, immoral, unnatural, an abomination. Given that, she has the nerve to say all of that about you as well as try and perpetuate that hatred by poisoning her daughter's mind? That poor girl."

"Amber is very sweet, and her father is no better than her mom. Where Tammy tries to control every aspect of Amber's life including her thoughts, her father is apathetic and disengaged. We've never seen him at any school functions. Her mother's there at least."

Bianca nodded. "Amber's strong though and smart. I hope her parents can appreciate that because she deserves that."

The blonde Fun Zone guide interrupted the women. "Mrs. Tasker-Montgomery, Mrs. Tasker-Montgomery, we're going to start rounding up the kids. It's time for pizza."

"Thank you, Taylor. We'll help." Bianca smiled as helped Marissa stand before they and Jessica followed the younger woman.

/

With the party at the Fun Zone a rousing success, the family headed home to Minx Manor to await round two of the day's celebration. This one featured family. AJ and Miranda couldn't wait to see the others, but the same wasn't necessarily true for their mothers. The contract between the couple and David hadn't been signed yet because Caleb was still drawing it up, but as a sign of good faith the couple had invited David to the party. He in turn promised to call Kendall next week and have her come into the office to discuss her condition. Bianca and Marissa weren't sure how David's appearance would go over today with anyone. The same held true for Krystal being at the party as well. They really hoped the adults would behave themselves for the kids' sake and not ruin their birthdays. The couple had issued a warning that if anyone was out of line, they would be asked to leave.

Bianca heard a knock at front door and sighed. Marissa was upstairs helping the kids get cleaned up while the brunette was setting things up downstairs.

Jessica chuckled as the brunette was pulling out the ice cream birthday cake AJ and Miranda had asked for from the freezer. She had offered to help, but Bianca insisted that she was company and should relax. "Why don't I get the door for you? You look like you have your hands full."

"Thank you."

"You're welcome. And then, I'm coming back to help you, whether you want it or not."

Bianca gave up and gratefully accepted the offer. "Thank you, again."

/

Jessica opened the front door to find Krystal on the other side.

/

A/N: Yeah, you get a little bit of a cliffhanger. There's more to come with Jessica and her reaction to Krystal and David now that she knows everything they've done. I just didn't have time to add it to this chapter and still post today. See you soon!