A/N: Thanks for continuing to read, review, and follow! I really appreciate it. I apologize for the delay in updating. Life has gotten in the way of writing. Thanks for staying with me! For those in the States, I hope you had a Happy Thanksgiving. I also hope everyone is staying safe and healthy. This chapter picks up where the last one left off. Hope you enjoy this update!
/
"Nana J! Did you see the surprise from our Moms?" Gabby asked excitedly as she greeted Jessica and Jo.
"I don't think she saw it, Gabs. The Moms just opened it last night." AJ tried to explain to his little sister.
"Oh, I guess you're right."
Jessica laughed. "I didn't see it, but I did know about it. So did Jo."
"I did. It sounds pretty cool. What movie did you watch?"
"We watched 'Moana'. I really liked it. It was like being at the drive-in again." Miranda added. The family had gone to the drive-in earlier in the summer, and everyone had a great time.
"What was like a drive-in?" Cory asked as she followed Jo and Jessica inside. "Oh, the outdoor projection screen system. That sounds really cool."
"We'll set something for tomorrow night after the rehearsal dinner. It'll keep the kids occupied while we all talk." Marissa said as she joined the group.
"That sounds great and definitely something Matt will like."
"Done! Speaking of, where are your guys?"
"At the park, again. We went yesterday, and Matt loved it. I feel bad for not helping out yesterday though."
"Don't. We had everything covered here, and it's more than understandable. You did have something else going on. So, how did Chris's interview at Chandler go?" Jo asked as the group gathered in the kitchen.
"He said it went really well, and it lasted a while. They kept bringing in different people to talk with him. Chris said he ended up talking with Scott Chandler for about 45 minutes."
Marissa nodded. "Talking to the CEO, that's definitely a good sign, and Scott is one of the best people I know."
"Rissa's right. Scott is just so genuine. Plus, he's really grown into the role of CEO since he took it over from Adam." Bianca added.
"It would be a really great opportunity for Chris if he got this job. The school system is pretty good too. If we moved here, I could sub until next school year and hopefully get on full time then. What makes it even better is that all of you are here, and we've made some other friends too."
"Well, I for one hope you all move here." Jo smiled.
"I don't know if Pine Valley is ready for the three of you to live in the same town!" Jessica smirked.
"Pine Valley won't know what hit it!" Marissa laughed.
"You got that right! The Goon Squad will be back in action!" Jo added as the three friends shared high-fives.
Bianca and Jessica looked at each other and simply shook their heads. The three friends loved the nickname that Kendall and Greenlee had given them.
"All right, break it up. We've got work to do if we're going to get everything ready for Goon #2's wedding." Bianca smirked.
/
"I'll get it." Marissa called out as she headed to answer the front door. She smiled when she checked the door viewer and saw Jessica, Caleb, Jo, Greg, and a small group of people who she assumed were Greg's family on the other side of the door. "Long time, no see." She joked as she greeted the members of the group she knew.
"Yeah, it's been what, 3 whole hours?" Jo joked back.
"Something like that. Come on in."
Greg held up the bags he was holding. "Do you mind if we drop this stuff off in the kitchen before we make introductions?"
"No problem. Follow me. Bianca and the kids are outside playing with Max so we can just do the introductions all at the same time."
"Works for me."
The group followed Marissa through the house, stopping in the kitchen before going outside.
/
"Bianca, kids, could you come over here?" Marissa called out to her family. Max raced over to her, and he obeyed immediately when Marissa told him to sit. "I'd like to introduce my wife Bianca and our children Miranda, AJ, Gabby, and Danny. Oh, and our hairy, four-legged child Max."
"Welcome. It's nice to finally meet you." Bianca said as she scooped up Danny.
Greg made the introductions for his family.
"It's nice to finally meet you as well." Greg's mother Dorothy said. "I'd just like to say that it's very nice of you to open up your home like this and have everything here."
"Jo is family, and it's what you do for family. And I guess Greg's okay too." Marissa winked.
Ed, Greg's brother, laughed. "Giving Greg grief, I like you, Marissa."
"So do I! It's good for him. Brings him back down to earth since he's around his adoring students all the time. He needs to keep that ego in check." Greg's other brother Ron laughed.
"I think I know why Greg was anxious to cook tonight. That is one heck of a grill." James, Greg's father and the eldest male Murphy, stated.
Bianca laughed. "Greg has always been honest about coveting our grill."
Greg shrugged. "It's true. I'm looking into getting one just like it."
"You know where we got it." Marissa turned to the adults in the group. "Would you like a tour of the house while Greg starts dinner?"
"If you don't mind, I'd love to see your home." Ron's wife Courtney answered.
Viveca, Ed's wife, nodded. "I would too. I'm not sure if the kids would though."
"They're in luck." Bianca looked at her kids. "Would you mind showing them the playroom/game room?"
Miranda nodded. "Sure! Follow us!"
Marissa chuckled as the younger members of the group headed back inside. "What she said."
/
When the groups returned from their respective tours, drinks were fetched for everyone. The kids headed to the jungle gym while Ed went over to help Greg at the grill.
"I have to say, Marissa, that you look awfully familiar." Dorothy said.
"You're right, she does." Viveca snapped her fingers as realization dawned on her. "You were just on 'Good Morning America'. You're representing those gymnasts."
Marissa nodded. "I am. Ron, you wouldn't happen to be Ronald Murphy as in the Civil Rights attorney out of Boston?"
Ron smiled and nodded, impressed that she had heard of him. "I am. I watched your interview and have been following the case. You did a good job with that interview. It's easy to see that you care a great deal about your clients. I can't even begin to imagine how hard it must be to hear what the survivors have been through."
"It pales in comparison to them actually having gone through it. I followed the Alexander case and was really impressed. Your cross examination of the defendant was truly a thing of beauty and should be taught in law school. You got him to confess to his discriminatory practices without him realizing it until it was way too late for him to do anything about it. It was amazing."
"Thank you. Something tells me you can't wait to have your shot at Landry and the others from Llanview University."
"I'm not even going to attempt to deny it." Marissa grinned.
"Well, I think we've lost those two for a while." Courtney knew her husband could discuss the law for hours on end.
Bianca chuckled. Marissa and Ron were soon engaged in what both would consider a fascinating conversation. Others might not find it nearly as interesting though. "I think you're right. I recognize that glint in Marissa's eyes all too well."
"Jo and Jessica told us that you founded the Miranda Center. From everything I've heard and read about it, it does wonderful work."
"It's helping with the survivors in Marissa's case, isn't it?" Viveca asked.
Bianca nodded. "It is. Thank you for referring to them as survivors."
"You're welcome. I remember Marissa saying in the interview that that's what they wanted to be called."
"They do, and they are amazing young women. So, Courtney, you're a teacher?"
"Yes, I am. I teach 6th grade."
"That can be a challenge."
"Yes, it can. Some classes are easier than others."
"I have no doubt about that. Viveca, you're a buyer for Nordstrom."
"I am, and it's something I really enjoy. I heard your sister is one of the co-owners of Fusion. Kendall Slater?"
Bianca nodded. "Yes, she is, along with Greenlee Lavery. You'll meet them both at the wedding."
"Meet who?" Marissa asked as she scooped up a fussy Danny.
"Kendall and Greenlee."
"Ah, the Dynamic Duo." Marissa smiled when she saw the curious looks on their guests' faces. "It's a well-deserved nickname for the two of them. They're really fun, and they are also incredible women, very smart. What they're even better at though is being there for you when you need them. You definitely want them in your corner, and they will always have your back."
"Who are we talking about having your back?" Jo asked as she joined the group.
"Kendall and Greenlee." Bianca answered.
"Ah, that is very true. I'm glad they're on my side. Plus, they are very entertaining. People might underestimate them because of that, and that is a big mistake."
"You've got that right. You would think people would know better by now, especially given the fact that they've learned from the master." Marissa smirked.
Jo chuckled as she looked at her future in-laws. "That would be Erica."
The other women perked up, and they took the opening that had presented itself regarding Erica Kane.
"Jo told us that Erica helped with her dress. That is just amazing." Dorothy said shocked. She couldn't get over the fact that someone as famous as Erica Kane stepped in to help her son and future daughter-in-law, and according to Greg, she hadn't asked for anything in return.
Bianca nodded. It always surprised her to a little when others were so shocked by her mother's generosity. Erica was extremely generous, but sometimes, people couldn't see past the diva part of her personality. Bianca knew Greg's family didn't mean any harm because they just didn't know her Mom. "She made a couple of phone calls and was able to help. She was happy to do it. Mom really likes both Jo and Jessica. They're family to her, and there isn't much that Mom wouldn't do for family."
Jo nodded. "I've found out that's very true. Now, I know we've all been worried about the aunts."
With the exception of Marissa and Bianca, the others rolled their eyes.
"That's an understatement." Viveca stated.
"Well, we don't have to worry about them."
"Seriously? We don't? How is that possible? I would love it if that's true because it would be really nice to not have the drama." Courtney couldn't hide her skepticism. It just sounded too good to be true.
Jo glanced at Bianca who nodded and took over the explanation.
"Jo told us about them and the family's concerns. So, we put something in place to help ease everyone's minds. There will be 2 lines of defense. Kendall and Greenlee will be the first line. When we told them what was going on, they volunteered."
Marissa laughed as she recalled their reaction. "They practically jumped at the chance. I swear sometimes that they live for this stuff."
Bianca smiled. "I think you're right. The second line of defense is my Mom, and she is more than happy to help as well." Bianca continued when she saw the concerned looks on the others' faces. "You don't need to worry. They won't cause a scene. If anything, they'll kill them with kindness. Jo told us that everyone was a little worried about the aunts and what they might do. I know they were upset about not being able to invite some people they wanted, people that none of you know or have any connection to."
Eddie chuckled as he took a seat next to his wife. "Yeah, I don't think my aunt's hairdresser really needs to come." When he saw the surprised look on Bianca's and Marissa's faces, he continued. "I'm not kidding about that. Aunt Laraine wanted to invite her hairdresser, and it wasn't to do anyone's hair. Well, at least no one else's but hers. And you know if she got to invite her, the others would want other people as well."
Ron nodded. "That is a fact. One set of aunts cannot be shown any type of preference over the other. I don't want to even think about what the fallout would be if that happened. It would be ugly, really ugly."
"All of that is exactly why Jo and I wanted a small ceremony. We don't want or need any of their drama. It's our day after all, our wedding. We want the people we care about to be there to share it with us, and not people we don't know or have any connection to. It's about us and not the aunts, and I'm not afraid to tell them if they cause problems." Greg stated, his passion on display.
"Preach, brother!" Eddie added with a smile.
"You've got our help if you need it."
"Thanks, Eddie. Thanks, Ron. I appreciate it." Greg turned to his parents. "Mom, Dad, are you okay with that?"
James and Dorothy looked at each other and nodded.
"We are, son. You're right. It's your day and is about you and Jo."
Dorothy nodded. "Your father is right, and we will back you up 100%, no matter what. It's nice to know that there will be others to help us though."
"There will be more than a few others to help you, Dorothy. Trust me. We got this. You, James, Jessica, and particularly Greg and Jo just need to focus on enjoying the day." Marissa reassured the other woman.
Jessica could tell Dorothy wasn't quite sold just yet. "If Marissa says they've got it covered, then they do. I've known her all of her life, and she has never broken a promise, not once. And Bianca, while I may not know her as long as I do Marissa, I can tell you without a doubt that the same goes for her."
"You're sure?"
"Positive."
Dorothy nodded and decided to trust Jessica. It was her daughter's wedding as well, and having known Jessica for several months, Dorothy knew that she wouldn't let anything go wrong for Jo's big day. "All right, I'll leave it in your hands." Dorothy decided to change the subject, and at the same time, gather some more information about the wedding. "I hear you're going to sing the song for their first dance, Marissa."
"I am. Jo and Greg asked if I would, and I really couldn't turn them down. I just hope I don't mess it up."
Jo smiled at her friend as she shook her head. "You won't. I have every faith in you. I wouldn't have asked you if I didn't believe you had this. Bianca's told me that you've been practicing." Jo turned to the others. "She has a beautiful voice."
"Thank you, and I have been practicing, here and with the DJ. We have a final rehearsal planned for when he sets up everything on Saturday before everyone gets here."
"I'll be here to listen and get a sneak peek!" Jo said excitedly.
"So will I! I can't wait! And I agree with Jo. You have a beautiful voice and will do a wonderful job." Jessica assured Marissa.
"What are you singing, Marissa?" Viveca asked.
"I'm not allowed to say at this time."
"What?"
"You heard her. She's not allowed to say. Jo and I have sworn her to secrecy. We wanted to surprise everyone. Just know that it is special to us." Greg said as he smiled softly at Jo.
"We knew that Jo was staying here Friday night. Are you as well, Jessica?" Courtney asked.
Jessica nodded. "Yes, I am. Jo asked if I would, and Marissa and Bianca are kind enough to let me."
"You didn't have to ask, neither of you did. Rissa and I are happy to have you here anytime. This time just happens to help with the tradition of the bride and groom not seeing each other until the ceremony." Bianca added.
"Greg and I decided to keep a couple of traditions. Me staying here made the most sense. I don't have to worry about my dress, and our hair and makeup will be done here." Jo said.
Marissa heard someone at the front door. "I'll go see who that is."
/
The redhead smiled brightly when she saw who was at the door. "Scott, hey, come one in. This is a nice surprise." Her friend was practically bursting at the seams with happiness and excitement.
"Hey, Marissa. I'm not interrupting anything am I?
"We're just having dinner with Greg's family and getting to know each other before the wedding."
"Oh, that's right. I forgot all about that. I'm sorry for interrupting. I'll leave you to it and just talk to you later." Scott turned and headed towards the door before Marissa stopped him.
"Hold it right there, Chandler. There's obviously something you want to tell me. I mean, you're literally bouncing on your feet. We can take some time to talk. Jo won't mind. Let's sit down, and you can tell me what's going on."
"Are you sure?"
"I'm positive. Now, spill."
"Okay." Scott took a deep breath to calm his excitement. "I have two things to tell you and one to ask you. First, Madison and I are going to have a baby!"
"Scott, that is wonderful! You're going to be a great dad, and Madison will be a great mom. Does Stuart know?"
"He does, and he can't stop smiling and laughing. I don't know that I've ever seen him this happy."
"Oh, I can only imagine. he's going to be a wonderful grandpa!"
"I know. He is, isn't he? You know that he's been a little depressed since Adam died. He's gotten a lot better. This, this has put that sparkle back in his eyes though."
"I'm sure it has. Okay, that's one."
Scott nodded. "Second, I asked Madison to marry me, and she said 'yes'!
"Well of course she did! Finally!" Marissa teased. "Congratulations! I'm really happy for you, for both of you! Can I tell Bianca?"
"Definitely! Madison and I wanted to tell the people closest to us before we shouted it from the highest building in Pine Valley! She would've come with me, but she's telling a couple of people herself. We decided to divide and conquer. We figure we'll tell Opal tomorrow, and that will take care of everyone else."
Marissa laughed. "Truer words were never spoken."
"Now for the question. We don't have a date yet, but I wanted to ask you to be stand up with me, be my best woman. Would you?"
"I would be honored." Marissa smiled, touched by the request.
"Great! I can't imagine you not being part of that day after all of the encouragement you gave me. It means a lot and will make the day complete."
"I'm happy to part of that day. I'll get Zach to help with the bachelor party."
Scott laughed. "Maybe we can go to Shamokin?"
"Sorry. Shamokin is off limits. Besides, I don't know if you guys could handle it."
"I have a feeling that's not a complete joke knowing the crew you're part of. Oh, I definitely want AJ to be part of the ceremony and maybe the girls. Madison and I still need to work on some of that."
"I know he will be thrilled and so will the girls. I won't say anything to them though and will leave that to you when you're ready."
"Thanks!"
"It's good to see you so happy."
"I am. I don't know that I've ever been this happy!"
"I can tell."
"Okay, I'm going to go and leave you to your guests. You can tell Jo if you want too. I'll see you at the wedding. I figure by then, everyone will know!"
Marissa hugged her friend. "I'll see you then. Yes, they will! Congratulations! Give my best to Madison."
"I will. Thanks!"
/
Bianca looked up when Marissa rejoined everyone outside. "Who was that?"
"Scott. He had some news which I am allowed to share. He and Madison are expecting and getting married."
"That is wonderful news!"
"Stuart has to be thrilled." Caleb said.
"Scott said he hasn't stopped smiling and laughing. That baby has struck gold with Grandpa Stuart."
Jessica smiled. She had met Stuart several times and hadn't found a gentler or kinder soul. "I couldn't agree more."
"Was there anything else?" Bianca asked.
"He asked me to be his best woman! I'm going to get Zach to help with the bachelor party. Scott asked about Shamokin."
Jo raised an eyebrow. "And you told him?"
"That it was off limits, and they wouldn't be able to handle it."
"You're probably right about that. Speaking from personal experience, he couldn't have anyone better standing up with him." Jo tipped her glass towards her best friend.
"Thank you. Madison was off telling a couple of people or she would have stopped by with Scott. He did say that they were going to tell Opal tomorrow."
"So all of Pine Valley will know very soon." Bianca laughed.
"Yeah, pretty much." Marissa nodded. She would tell Bianca later about the possibility of the kids being in the wedding.
"Okay! Dinner is ready!" Greg announced proudly.
Soon, everyone was settled at various tables and enjoying their dinner as well as getting to know each other. There was also some good-natured teasing of Jo and Greg. All in all, it was a very good night.