A/N: Thanks as always for continuing to read, review, and follow! I appreciate it and all of you. I still haven't decided about Greenlee and Ryan's adoption so feel free to share your ideas. This chapter picks up where the last one left off. Hope you enjoy this update!

/

Krystal, Tad, Opal, Jenny, and Kathy arrived not long after Greenlee and Ryan's talk with Emma and Spike. The girls hurried off with the other kids to watch a movie in the playroom downstairs. Krystal had been dating an electrical contractor by the name of Steve Ledecky, and Marissa had invited him to join them. He had a grown son who lived out of town with his family however, and Steve went to spend the holiday with them. Tad, whose girlfriend Simone Raisman had to work at the hospital, was about to sit down to watch one of the football games airing that day when he was stopped by Kendall.

"No, I don't think so Tad. There's lots of work to do."

"Seriously?"

"Yep. We need the tables and chairs set up along with a few more things. Marissa is supervising and is in the dining room. Check with her on what else needs to be done."

Tad grumbled before he headed off.

"Is my son pouting?"

Kendall laughed. "Yeah, he is Opal. He thought he was going to get away with just watching football while the rest of us worked."

"I told him that wasn't going to happen, but he didn't want to listen. Marissa will keep him in line."

"I have no doubt about that." Kendall heard a knock on the door. "I'll get it." The brunette opened the door to greet the Walker family.

"Hi, Kendall. Happy Thanksgiving!" A clearly frazzled Gail said as she entered Minx Manor.

"Happy Thanksgiving to all of you. Are you doing okay, Gail?"

"I am now, thanks in large part to Bianca and Marissa. The oven had to go out today of all days."

"I feel your pain. It happened to me last year. These two came through for me then too. Hi, Carol."

"Hello, Kendall. Sam and Alex are getting the extra chairs out of the car. I should probably get these pies in the oven, and then, I would like to thank Bianca and Marissa."

"So would I. They have saved our Thanksgiving by letting us join all of you."

The family's oven had been working fine yesterday which had allowed Carol to finish baking her traditional cookies. She had wanted those out of the way before she and Gail did the heavy lifting cooking-wise of the turkey, stuffing, pies, and other sides today. It was when Gail got up early to start the turkey that she discovered the oven was no longer working. Alex had done his best to bring the appliance back to life, but there was no saving it. Sam suggested calling Bianca and Marissa since the family was going over there later that day for dessert. When Marissa had heard about what was going on, she immediately insisted the Walkers join them for dinner. It was quickly determined what they should bring to add to the feast.

"Bianca is in the kitchen, and Marissa is in the dining room for now. Oh, Rafaela brought a dessert you are definitely going to want to check out, Carol."

With that said, they set off.

/

Dinnertime finally arrived, and everyone gathered to take their seats and fill their plates. The group used two rooms to dine in. The adults were in the dining room and the kids were in the kitchen with the door between the two rooms left open. Once plates were filled, conversations had begun in earnest.

"So, Marissa, what's the latest with Tammy Baldwin? I still can't believe she tried to take credit for what you had done. Is Jesse going to press any charges?" Gail asked.

"No, he isn't. He talked with the DA, and they decided not to pursue a case against her. They could press charges for giving a false statement, but they decided against it. I agree with them. It would be an ugly case all around. Besides, she has bigger issues to deal with. She's pretty much become a pariah around school and town itself."

"Rissa's right. Tammy loved lording over everyone on PTO and the other school organizations." Bianca added.

"Isn't that the truth? I'm thinking they'll be more volunteers now that she's not around as much." Kendall said.

"Probably. Worst of all though, her custody case has taken a major hit with all of this. She has to find a new lawyer because her previous one dropped her after what happened at the courthouse. As for opposing counsel, Sofia will present to the court what Tammy did as part of her argument for Doug to receive primary custody. It will definitely strengthen his case."

Caleb nodded. "Sofia is smart to do so. I know it's not something she necessarily wants to do, but it is something she needs to do. It goes to character, and Tammy definitely showed hers, or her lack of one, throughout the entire courthouse incident."

"The person I feel the worst for in all of this is Amber. She loves her mom, but Tammy has made it hard to be around her because of the hate that she spews. It's hurt Amber so much. All of Tammy's drama has made it hard for Amber at school too. Luckily, most of the kids get it, but Miranda and AJ told us that there are a couple of them that have said some things to her." Marissa admitted.

Bianca nodded. "And they've done their best to stop them."

"You must be very proud of them." Opal smiled.

"We are."

Opal lowered her voice. "Is AJ still sweet on her?"

"Yes, he is." Bianca smiled. "Don't tease him too much about it though."

"I'll be nice. Don't worry."

/

Tad was getting a little bored and decided to have some fun. To do that, he had to poke a couple of people, and he knew just the two to do it to. "Krystal, would you pass Erica the gravy. She looks like she could use some."

Erica glared at a grinning Tad. She knew exactly what he was doing, and the diva was having none of it. "No thank you. I'm perfectly fine."

"Are you sure, Erica? I mean, we all know how much you love gravy, and the gravy boat is right by Krystal. I'm sure she wouldn't mind giving you some. Right, Krystal?"

"Drop it, Tad." Krystal warned her ex.

"What? I'm just saying we know how much Erica enjoyed it last Thanksgiving."

Rafaela leaned in closer to Maura. "I think we're missing something. I don't understand the importance of gravy. Why is Tad making such a big deal out of it?"

"Because he's trying to get a rise out of Erica and Krystal for his own twisted enjoyment. There was an incident last year involving gravy and Erica and Krystal." Greenlee explained.

"Krystal spilled some gravy on me."

"It was an accident, Erica. I didn't mean to do it."

"And they're off." Tad smiled triumphantly as the two women began to bicker.

Bianca rolled her eyes as she got up and walked over behind Tad. She then smacked him on the back of the head.

"Ow! What was that for?"

"Seriously, Tad? One holiday. I'm just asking for one holiday. I don't think that it's really too much to ask."

"Behave, Thaddeus." Opal warned her son.

Tad started to feel a little bad when he saw that Bianca was a slightly upset. She was the one person he hated to see that way. "Ow! What the hell, Kendall?" Tad rubbed the back of his head again. He hadn't seen Kendall come up from behind and smack him just like Bianca had.

"Apologize to my sister. You're being a bit of a jerk. Stop it and apologize now."

"I'm sorry, Bianca, really. I can't help it sometimes."

"Apology accepted." Bianca turned to the bickering women. "Mom, Krystal, please."

"You're right, Sweetheart. I'm sorry and will do my best to refrain from participating in any further disagreements."

"So will I." Krystal promised.

"Thank you."

Talk soon turned to politics and the presidential primaries and general election that would be taking place the next year. There was a definite difference of political opinions among those present. Each of the major political parties were represented: Republican, Democrat, and Independent. Pennsylvania was considered a swing state so most if not all of the candidates would be visiting the state. Not only that, the Democratic National Convention the following July would be held not that far from Pine Valley in nearby Philadelphia. When it was time for the general election the following November, Pennsylvania would be in the thick of things. Several candidates had reached out to Erica for her endorsement. The diva had great influence in her home state, and an endorsement from her would be a significant feather in the cap of whomever she picked. The law firm had power in Pennsylvania as well, and as with Erica, candidates had reached out to them. Unlike Erica where it was just her, there were five differing opinions among the firm's partners. Marissa was pushing for them to hold off on endorsing anyone at the moment, and the redhead would also prefer if they were unanimous in who they endorsed. If they weren't, she would rather they not back anyone at all. She and Caleb had discussed this, and he was definitely coming around to her way of thinking.

For the most part, the various discussions around the dinner table were civil. It's a simple fact that nothing could generate stronger feelings than politics or religion, and with both, disagreements could quickly escalate and turn ugly. Rafaela found the discussions fascinating as did Sam. The Brazilian compared them to her own family's back home in São Paulo and found she couldn't get enough of the varying opinions. As for Sam, she was beginning to form her own opinions and was excited about becoming part of the process along with being able to vote in two years.

"I can't believe you're serious about voting for her." Tad shook his head.

"Right back at you. Have you heard some of the things he's saying?" Ryan threw back at his friend.

"Well, my guy wouldn't say any of the things either of your candidates have." Alex said.

"Oh no, yours just wants to destroy the economy."

"No, he would be creating jobs."

The discussion continued on like that for several minutes with others contributing to the debate along with a few good natured jabs thrown in for good measure. Tad noticed Marissa was the only one who had remained silent. The redhead wasn't one who typically shied away from sharing her opinion, but in this case, she hadn't tipped her hand in the least as to who she would be supporting in the upcoming election. Tad being Tad couldn't help himself.

"So, Marissa, who are you voting for?"

Marissa glanced up. "I haven't made my mind up yet."

"Well, you do have 17 candidates to choose from."

"Why are you assuming that I'm Republican?"

"I guess because you are a partner at one of the largest and most powerful law firms in the state. Are you telling me that you aren't?"

"While that may be true, Tad, have you or anyone else ever been safe in assuming anything with Rissa?" Bianca asked with a grin.

Caleb chuckled. "Very true, Bianca. Most of you probably don't know this because Marissa doesn't like to toot her own horn, but we've significantly increased the amount of time we spend on pro bono cases all because of her. She thought we needed to broaden our client base."

"Yes, she was very convincing when she brought that initiative up to all of the partners. Marissa thought it would be a good idea to serve all segments of our community, and at the same time, it would get the partners to roll up their sleeves by getting back in the trenches and remembering why we became lawyers. I have to admit that I'm enjoying it." Jack added.

"So am I. Geoff and Bryce were a little skeptical at first, but now, they are completely behind it."

Krystal smiled. "I definitely know where Marissa gets that from. Roy and Lydia were very big on serving the community and giving back to it."

Marissa was touched by Krystal's comment regarding her parents and acknowledged it with a nod.

"So, you're a Democrat?"

"Why is it so important to you which party I belong to, Tad?"

"I'm just curious. I'm interested in who people are voting for. Maybe, I can sway someone to my side." Tad grinned.

"I'll give you this much. I vote for who I think the best person for the job is regardless of their party. I also usually keep my vote to myself."

"Why? Are you ashamed of who you pick?"

"Not at all. I just don't like to shout about it like some people do." Marissa eyed Tad pointedly. "It's my vote, and if I choose to tell someone about it, I will."

"Meaning that if someone pesters you about it, you most likely won't. Definitely Roy and Lydia." Krystal chuckled.

"Exactly."

"Fine. Don't tell me. I'm good with not knowing."

"Reverse psychology doesn't really work on Red, Tad. Trust me, I've tried." Kendall laughed.

Before Tad could continue, Greenlee decided she had had enough of this conversation. It had gone on entirely too long for her liking, and she was tired of it. She could also tell she wasn't the only one, and Marissa, in particular, had grown weary of the private detective's incessant questioning. Greenlee knew there was one sure-fired way to put an end to it so she glanced at her husband. Ryan seemed to read her mind and nodded.

/

"I have an idea. Why don't we go around the table and say what we're thankful for?"

"Yes! That is a great idea, Greenlee! Why don't you start?" Kendall jumped at her friend's idea. Not only would it put an end to Tad's questioning, but it would also give Greenlee the chance to share her wonderful news. News that she had been dying to share for some time now.

"Okay." Greenlee nodded and held her hand out for Ryan to take. "As you all know, Ryan and I are hoping to adopt a child, and Marissa has been helping us, guiding us through this process. Earlier today, Marissa told us that … she told us …" Tears started to form in Greenlee's eyes as she struggled to get the happy news out. With a deep breath, she began again. "Marissa told us that … that we've been approved!"

Jack jumped up and rushed to his daughter. "What?!"

"We've been approved!"

Jack engulfed his daughter and son-in-law in a hug. "This is just the best news! Congratulations! I am so happy for you! I'm going to be a grandpa again!"

Hugs were exchanged with everyone that was there, and when things finally settled down, Greenlee continued. "So, I'm first thankful for Marissa. This wouldn't be possible without all of the hard work she put in on our behalf and all of the hand-holding. You definitely went above and beyond, Marissa. Thank you."

Marissa smiled. "You're welcome."

"I'm also thankful for all of you and the support that you've given Ryan and me throughout this time. It means so much to us. We're not sure when it will happen exactly, but hopefully by next Thanksgiving, we'll have a new addition to this crazy but wonderful family."

"Here, here!" Jack raised his glass, and the others joined him in toasting Greenlee and Ryan.

When everyone finished saying what they were thankful for, conversations began again but with a much lighter tone than previously. Tad apologized to Marissa for earlier, and once she had assured him there were no hard feelings, he picked up a conversation with Zach on the Eagles' chances for the rest of the football season.

"I can't believe you didn't say anything to me about them being approved." Jack shook his head with a smile at the redhead.

"Well, Jack, you're not my client. Greenlee and Ryan are. You know as well as anyone that I couldn't say anything to you." Marissa shrugged.

"You're right, I do, but you didn't give any indication."

Caleb chuckled. "That's why I don't play poker with her that often. I like keeping my money too much."

/

Bianca and Marissa settled into bed later that night. All of the leftovers had been distributed, the dishes cleaned and put away, things picked up around the house, guests had left happy, and the kids were sound asleep in their beds. Finally, the exhausted couple was alone.

"You know what I'm most thankful for?" Bianca asked her wife.

"Tell me."

"You and our kids. I never thought I could be this happy, be this blessed."

Marissa gave her wife a loving kiss. "I know what you mean. You and the kids are everything to me. We have the life I always dreamed of having. I love you."

Bianca kissed her wife and then pulled her into her arms as they settled under the covers. "I love you too." Bianca had a smile on her face as she drifted off to sleep. She remembered a conversation she had earlier with Jessica and Jo. The three of them had come up with the perfect surprise for Marissa, and tomorrow, they would begin planning it. Bianca knew her wife was going to love it.

/

A/N: So, I threw in a political discussion. I didn't use any names on purpose and honestly didn't have any particular candidates in mind when I wrote this. What was being said could honestly apply to anyone that was running in the primaries last year. I don't plan to make any specific statements in this story regarding the upcoming presidential election in the States. I'm kind of like Marissa. I keep who I'm voting for to myself for the most part. It's just who I am. It doesn't mean that I don't have strong opinions. I just try and avoid conflicts with friends and family over politics if I can. I will say, however, that I'll be glad when this election is over. It's been long and ugly, and we still have just under 3 months left. Anyway, let's move onto another subject. The Olympics have been great. I'm amazed at what these athletes can do. That's it for now. See you soon!