A/N: Thanks for continuing to read, review, and follow! It's very much appreciated. I also appreciate your input regarding the adoption. Please, keep it coming. I have an idea that's swirling around in my brain, but nothing is set in stone yet. This chapter picks up where the last one left off, and it had me going online to do some research. I know adoption laws vary from state to state here, and even more so between countries. So, I'm going to focus on those laws in the United States and then generalize them as best I can. Remember, I am but an IT developer and not a lawyer. I only write about a character who is one. Hope you enjoy this update!

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"So, what did you want to talk about?" Marissa asked.

Greenlee took a sip of water, and then, she finally let everything out in one hurried breath, a breath it felt like she had been holding all morning. "I'd like to talk to you about adopting a child."

"I'm sorry. What did you say? You said it kind of quick, and I couldn't quite catch it."

Taking a deep breath and releasing it again, Greenlee spoke slower this time after realizing just how quickly she had spoken. She knew Marissa couldn't help her if she couldn't understand her. "I want to talk to you about adoption. Specifically, I want to talk to you about me and Ryan adopting a child."

Marissa paused a moment, thinking about how she wanted to proceed. "Okay. Before we get started, could I ask you a couple of questions?"

Greenlee nodded. "Sure."

"Why didn't you go to Jack?"

It was a question she had expected, and one that oddly enough helped her focus. "Honestly? It's awkward. He's my Dad, and I love him. He's my Dad though. Certain conversations, well, they're tough to have with him. I don't know how much sense that makes, but I just don't know about having him involved. I also can't help but think that he would tell Erica, and I'm really not comfortable with her knowing about this. Erica and I get along a lot better than we used to, but there are some things I don't want her to know about, at least not yet. This is mine, and I feel I need to pursue this without them trying to help."

"I get it. Next question. Why me?"

Greenlee had expected this question as well and was definitely ready for it. "There are a few reasons. I talked to Kendall a few weeks ago about this. When she suggested I talk to you, it made perfect sense to me. You've been through this and have an understanding that the others don't. I'm not just talking about adopting a child because I know you have and so has Bianca. It's that you've been on the other side of it, being adopted yourself. Yes, Kendall was adopted, and we've talked about it. Again though, it's different with her than it is with you. You've always been upfront about it, and I see the love that you have for your parents, the Taskers. I want to make a difference in a child's life, kind of like the one they made in yours."

Marissa smiled. The redhead was always grateful that others acknowledged the impact Roy and Lydia Tasker had on her life and the person she had become.

"Plus, I trust you, and I know that Bianca is right when she says you're a kickass lawyer. You've helped Fusion several times, and that's not even your specialty. This is. I want the best. I need the best. Quite simply, that's you."

"Thank you, for your trust. I'll do my best for you. You have my word on that, and that what we discuss will remain between us."

"You wouldn't even tell Bianca, would you?"

"No, I won't. As my client, I will maintain your confidentially." Marissa stated solemnly.

Greenlee sat back and smiled. She knew the lawyer meant every word she had said. "You can tell Bianca. I trust her to keep it quiet. It would be hard for not to know considering you and Kendall do. I just ask that you ask her not to tell Jack or Erica. I'll tell them, eventually, just not yet. If this doesn't go through, the less people that know, the better."

Marissa nodded. "I understand, and you're right. Bianca will keep it quiet. Okay, let's talk adoption."

"Could I ask you a question before we get started?"

"Of course."

"Do you … do you think I could be a good Mom? Please be honest." Greenlee braced herself for the answer.

"Greenlee, I know you'll be a good Mom. Scratch that. You'll be a great Mom. You already are to Emma."

"I love her so much, but it's hard sometimes. Annie does not make things easy. Because of that and everything that Annie's done, it's hard on Emma. She has a lot of baggage and some anger. I get to be on the receiving end of that more than anyone else. I know it's because of Annie and what she says to Emma when they talk. It's just hard."

"Yeah, Annie's a real peach." The sarcasm clearly evident in Marissa's voice.

"I guess she's not one of your favorite people since she tried to kill you and all."

Marissa chuckled. "Nope. It makes it kind of hard to be friends after someone does something like that. She's right up there with JR and David."

"Ouch. As well she should be though."

"Has the counselor Emma's been seeing helped any?"

"Some, yeah. I'm really glad we decided to have her talk to someone after Annie's last stunt. It's definitely helped."

"I'm glad. It was smart of you and Ryan to have her see someone. I have to tell you that you're great with more than just Emma. Spike adores you as do Ian and Lexie, and our brood is crazy about you as well, Gabby probably more so than anyone else. Aunt G is definitely her favorite."

"They're great kids."

"Yeah, they are. They're also pretty good judges of character. I have no doubt that any child that would have you as a mother would be very lucky."

"Thank you."

"You're welcome. I really do mean it. So, adoption?"

"This is something I've thought about for a while now. You know that I can't have children of my own." Greenlee paused. "It's been my biggest regret, but one I've come to terms with. I've never stopped wanting a child though. I've been able to push those feelings down for a while, but I've never stopped wanting one. Seeing you with Danny and Kendall with Lexie, it's just brought all of those feelings back and intensified them."

Marissa hadn't missed the longing looks or wistful glances on her friend's face whenever she was around Danny and Lexie. She also hadn't missed the way her face lit up whenever either child would reach for her. Marissa would do everything she could to help Greenlee. "I get it. I really do."

Greenlee knew that she did. That's one of the reasons she went to Marissa. "I know. Thank you."

"So, Ryan is obviously onboard with this."

Greenlee nodded. "He is. We've talked a lot about this, and he agrees that you are the best person to help us. He'll be in to talk with you about all of this too. I just wanted to talk with you first. I would more than understand if you didn't want to take our case, but …"

"I'm all in on this, Greenlee. Whatever you need, I'll be there every step of the way. I promise that I will do everything I can to help you get a child."

"Thank you." Greenlee choked out.

"You're welcome." Marissa gave her friend's arm a squeeze before she stood and walked to her desk to retrieve a pen and legal pad. "Okay, I have a few basic questions for you, and I need to take some notes." When she sat back down, she looked at her friend. "Ready?"

Greenlee nodded. "Yeah. Shoot."

"Okay. First question, do you have a preference, a boy or a girl?"

"No, not really."

"What about age? Infant, toddler, preschooler, or older?"

"Younger than Emma. Ryan and I both think it would be easier for her, and she's talked about wanting to be a big sister."

Marissa nodded and made a note. "Any preference on race?"

Greenlee shook her head. "No."

"Have you thought about a domestic adoption versus an international adoption?"

"What would the difference be?"

"Legally?"

"Yeah."

"In the past, the adoption laws in some countries were easier and there were more infants available. Over time, some of those laws have been tightened, and it's not as easy as it used to be as a result. I'll be honest with you. I'm more familiar with adoption laws here in the States. If you're interested in an international adoption however, I will definitely do my due diligence to help you with that."

Greenlee thought for a moment. "Domestic adoption would probably be better, especially with Emma."

"All right. What about an open adoption or closed adoption?"

"Would you mind explaining the difference to me?"

"No problem. A closed adoption is basically that. It's closed. There is no contact between the adoptive and biological parents, and the biological parents and the child as well. An open adoption is somewhat of a broad term and has evolved over time. Previously, it just meant the biological parents knew the name and location of the child. Then, it meant that the adoption records weren't sealed. Basically now, there is usually some minimal contact between the adoptive and biological parents. There are studies that 95% of adoptions have some sort of ongoing contact. Out of that number, 40% of those have that communication conducted through a mediator. You're not directly talking to each other, but you're passing information back and forth through that third party. It gives you a buffer. It's estimated that in the other 55% of open adoptions there is direct contact between the parties whether it be letters, phone calls, or something else like that. You're communicating without that middleman."

"That sounds a little scary, to be honest. Why would you choose an open adoption?"

"Well, there is a third option called a semi-open adoption. It's open, but any communication is structured. There's no 'dropping by' or a constant flow of communicating. Parameters are set, followed, and enforced. You see, there is a school of thought that open or semi-open adoptions are beneficial to the adopted child. By understanding their roots, it's believed that it gives them a sense of identity. It's also believed they benefit from hearing why they were put for adoption."

Greenlee said nothing and just looked at the redhead.

Marissa sighed. "Yeah, I know. I don't think my situation is exactly what they had in mind when talking about that particular benefit. Hearing 'I gave you up for money so I could keep your twin sister and support the two of us' wasn't all that beneficial for me. It's definitely not something you would tell a child, and I'd think I'm the exception to the rule. Do you want my honest opinion here?"

"Yes, I do."

"I would recommend a semi-open adoption. You're keeping the door, and it's structured. You and Ryan set the rules. I guess mine could be considered a semi-open adoption. Mom and Dad knew Krystal, and I don't believe they shut the door on communicating with her. Krystal's told me that they sent her updates on me as well as pictures. I never saw her growing up though, and I think that was their call as well. Krystal wasn't in a good place at that time, and there was Babe. It was hard enough as adult to deal with her choosing Babe over me. To know that when I was a child and have it right in front of me, actually seeing the child she chose, would have been too much for me or any child to handle. There was communication though. You don't have to decide right now, but talk to Ryan and think about it. I have several things you can read and will give them to you before you leave. Read them, and let me know what questions you have."

Greenlee nodded. "I definitely will. What else?"

"Private adoption versus going through the state agencies. A private adoption is more expensive, but it could happen quicker. It usually takes anywhere from one month to one year. If you go through the state, you're looking at up to five years."

"Wow. That long?"

"Yes, I'm afraid so. With the state, you're dealing with the foster care system. The first goal of Social Services is always reunification of the child with the birth parents if possible."

"That means we could bond with a child, and the state could just take them away?"

"It could happen, yes. I'll give you something that details both, and again, feel free to ask me any questions you may have. No matter which way you go, we will want to arrange a home study."

"A home study?"

"We will hire someone that will investigate pretty much everything. We're talking your background, home, family, friends, finances, and health. That in and of itself could take up to six months. You can speed that along by starting to get some documents together. We'll need your and Ryan's birth certificates, your marriage license, tax returns, and financial statements especially from your businesses."

"Okay, we can definitely get that together." Greenlee's head was spinning as she took everything in. She knew there would be a lot to it, but it was slightly overwhelming. "Is there anything else?"

"There is, but I think I've given you enough to think about at the moment. So, how about I give you some things to read, and then, we'll meet again, with Ryan next time?"

"That sounds good."

Marissa grabbed a folder she had put together for clients who were interested in adoption. "This should help get you started. If you have any questions, and I mean any questions, don't hesitate to call me anytime. Okay?"

Greenlee smiled gratefully as she took the folder. "Okay. I can't thank you enough for this, Marissa."

"There's no need. I'm happy to help, and I will be with you every step of the way. How about we meet again in a week?"

"That sounds good."

"Oh, Jack may wonder why you're around here so much. We could meet at Fusion, your place, or my place, whichever works for you."

"You're right. I didn't think about that. How about your place? Emma won't hear some of the details that way, and neither will any of the staff at Fusion or at Ryan's office."

"Minx Manor in one week it is." Marissa smiled.

Greenlee released a relieved chuckle. She knew that Marissa referred to her home that way to ease her nerves, and it worked. What Greenlee also knew was that Marissa would fight for her and Ryan. "That's it? Nothing else for today?"

"Do you have a dollar?"

"I think so. Why?"

"Let me have it."

Greenlee pulled out her wallet, confused by the request.

"That dollar will serve as my retainer, and with it, I am officially your attorney."

"Gotcha." Greenlee smiled and handed it over.

Marissa accepted the dollar. "I am now your attorney, and as such, anything you tell me will remain confidential. In this case, that means you, Ryan, Kendall, and Bianca are the only ones who will know about what we're doing."

"You can add Zach to that list. I told Kendall she could tell him."

"And Zach. I will draw up a contract for us, and we'll go over it next week."

"That sounds good."

"Now, that's everything for today." Marissa gave a reassuring smile.

Greenlee nodded. She had a lot of reading to do and was anxious to get started. "Thanks, again."

"You're welcome, again."

/

Later that night when the kids were in bed and Jessica was out with Caleb, the couple finally had some time to themselves. They settled themselves on the sofa in the family room to relax with some wine. It was then that Marissa told Bianca what Greenlee wanted.

"Adopt? Greenlee and Ryan want to adopt?"

"Yep." Marissa nodded as she took a glass of wine from her wife. "Thoughts?"

Bianca took a seat next to Marissa of the sofa. "I like it, a lot. It's a great idea. She's a wonderful mom. I know it hasn't always been easy with Emma because of Annie and all of the games she likes to play. She may still be in Oak Haven, but damn if she still doesn't know how to wreak havoc from there. Greenlee's really good with Emma, and she's definitely given her the stability she needs and never had or ever would have with Annie. Plus, I know Greenlee's wanted another child for a long time. It really crushed her when she was told she couldn't have children. I know seeing you pregnant with Danny and Kendall pregnant with Lexie couldn't have been easy for her. I've seen the looks and so have you."

Marissa nodded. "I have."

"Ryan?"

"He's onboard, and I'll meet with them both next week. I'm drawing up a contract for them so everything is dotted and crossed."

Bianca took a sip of wine. "I'm glad to hear about Ryan. If he wasn't, it would be a huge obstacle for them."

"That's very true."

"So, she doesn't want Uncle Jack or Mom to know. I definitely can understand about Mom. They get along a thousand times better than they used to, but they will never be BFF's. It makes sense that Greenlee wouldn't want Mom to know right now. If Uncle Jack knew, it would pretty much be impossible for him not to let something slip to Mom. Greenlee also doesn't want him to handle this, does she?"

"Nope. She said she and Ryan want to do this on their own."

"I can understand that. I won't say anything to them."

"Are you okay with us meeting here?"

"Of course. It seems like the logical place to me since she doesn't want others to know quite yet. If they're making frequent visits to the office, Uncle Jack will see them and start asking questions. If you meet at Fusion, you can almost guarantee that someone will overhear something, and any privacy they have or hope to have will be out the window. Same goes for Ryan's office. If you meet at their place, Emma could overhear something, and they're not ready to tell her everything just yet."

"Those were my exact thoughts."

"Given all of that, meeting at our place makes perfect sense. I'm glad Greenlee reached out to you for help. It was very smart of her, and I always knew Greenlee was smart. You know when I think about it, hiring you was downright brilliant on her part. I mean, you are a kickass lawyer and the best one to help her." Bianca added with a kiss.

Marissa laughed. "Your bias is showing."

Bianca shrugged. "Yeah, I know. What of it? I don't really care. Besides, I'm allowed to be biased. I'm also only speaking the truth. You know if you play your cards right, Counselor, I could show you more than my bias." Bianca waggled her eyebrows.

"Really now?" Marissa raised an eyebrow. With everything that had been going on lately, they hadn't had much if any time for themselves. So, Marissa was definitely up for what Bianca had in mind.

"Yep, really. That is if you're interested."

Marissa placed her wine glass on the coffee table, then took Bianca's glass and placed it next to hers. "In you? Always." The redhead leaned back on the sofa, pulled Bianca onto her lap, and captured her lips in a fervent kiss. When they separated, Marissa grinned seeing darkened chocolate eyes. "How am I doing?"

Bianca wrapped her arms around her wife and teased. "Not bad for starters, but I'm pretty sure you can do better."

"That sounds like a challenge, and one that I am more than willing to accept. Besides you know me, I always aim to please."

"Oh, and you always succeed." Bianca husked as she closed the distance between her and Marissa for another searing kiss.

/

Marissa couldn't stop smiling the next day as she pulled into the firm's parking lot. Memories of the night before as well as that morning flooded her and had put an extra bounce in her step.

What had started in the family room ended in the bedroom and had left both she and Bianca blissfully sated. Marissa had woken up before their alarm, and in the course of performing her morning routine, the redhead achieved her goal of arousing Bianca which had them pick up where they had left off the night before. The only downside was that it had them scrambling to get themselves and the kids ready for the day ahead. It was during that scramble that the couple noted that Jessica didn't come home the previous evening. She did however send a text to Marissa so they didn't worry about her or where she was. The couple laughed and knew they would be teasing her some when they did see her again.

Marissa sighed happily as she put her car in park and got out. It was when she was getting Danny out of his car seat that she heard one someone calling her name.

"Marissa."

With Danny on her hip but shielded, the redhead turned. "JR."

/

A/N: Huh, would you look at that? My evil side came out again! See you soon!