Sex, Lies, and Videotape

by luci465

I wanted to expand upon the whole video and blackmail story arc of Bianca and Marissa by JR. I think more could have been done so I'm doing that in this one shot.

A/N: Hello all! I'm still around! I haven't abandoned 'Things Change'. I've just got sidetracked by life. I hope to carve out some time to work on it again shortly. I think this story might help me get my writing mojo back. Oh yeah, this is a new and rather lengthy one shot. How did it come into being? Well, someone ( girlgetsthegirl) reached out to me on Twitter (I'll still calling it that) about something that was posted on tumblr by amc-minx that mentioned me about Minx. It seems that was all that was needed to get my creative juices flowing again. It got me thinking about the whole video and blackmail thing and how I didn't exactly like how it was handled on the show. And that is how this story came about. Thanks for reading, and I hope to see you soon in 'Things Change'!

Disclaimer: I don't own these characters. I'm not really sure who does anymore. I'm just borrowing them.

/

"So, what do you want to do now? We could get dinner or see a movie." Bianca asked Marissa. The women found themselves with some free time on their hands with their kids at sleepovers at various friends' homes.

Marissa smiled shyly. There was something she had wanted to do with Bianca for a little while. She wasn't sure how to bring it up though. With the kids otherwise occupied for the evening, the redhead knew this would be the perfect time, but she was nervous. She took a deep, shaky breath, bit her lip, and hoped she could find the words and not mess this up.

"Well, would you … this is so hard, and I'm messing this up." Marissa stuttered and covered her face with her hands.

Bianca gently grasped the redhead's hands and pulled them from her face. "You haven't messed anything up. What is it? It's just me. You can ask me anything."

With another deep breath to steady her nerves, Marissa tried again. Bianca was right. Marissa was safe with her and knew she didn't need to be nervous. "I was thinking, wondering, if you would like to go back to the hotel with me? The kids are gone for the night, and …"

"You mean?" Bianca couldn't believe what she was hearing and could only hope that her ears weren't deceiving her.

Marissa smiled and nodded. "Yeah, I would really like to spend the night with you."

Bianca's brain short-circuited, and she could only nod in reply as she took Marissa's offered hand and followed her to her car.

/

The couple entered Marissa's hotel room and deposited their purses on a desk in the room. Marissa and AJ had been staying at the Yacht Club until they were able to move into something permanent. Bianca had been helping Marissa with the search for a new home, and the redhead had whittled down the list to a handful of possibilities and hoped to make an offer on one soon.

Marissa turned to face Bianca. "So."

"So."

"Here we are."

"Mmmhmm."

"Is this okay? Being here? Is this okay?"

"Yeah, it's great. Perfect." Bianca said as she put her hands in the pockets of her jeans and walked past Marissa. "You know, if you don't want to do this …"

Marissa didn't want to leave any doubt in Binaca's mind and stopped her from finishing that statement. "Oh no, no, no."

"I mean I would understand."

"No, no." She took Bianca's hands in hers. "Listen. Listen to me, okay?"

"Okay."

"I have never been so sure of anything in my life than being right here with you and loving you. Never."

Bianca's breath hitched at her girlfriend's words and seeing the sincerity in her hazel eyes.

"This is where I belong." Marissa leaned in and kissed the brunette.

A chain reaction occurred the instant they separated. It was the reassurance Bianca needed. She captured Marissa's lips and arms wound tightly around each other as each strove to pull the other even closer. Rational thought became impossible as bodies melded together, and minds were sent reeling as they became lost in each other. Hands began to roam as the kiss deepened. The need to be even closer to Marissa soon had Bianca pull back long enough to guide them back to Marissa's bed gently pushing her back against the room's bed until she was lying on top of her. As Bianca's hand slowly crept underneath her girlfriend's shirt, she felt Marissa tense and inhale sharply, and she was jolted back to reality. "We, we need to stop."

"Why? Don't you want me?"

Bianca saw the nervousness in Marissa's eyes as she slowly pulled away. "Let's slow down." They both sat up and struggled to catch their breath. The brunette gently cupped her girlfriend's face. "Not want you? Of course, I want you, but maybe, this is happening too fast. It's all right if we don't do this now. I know this is all new for you, and if you're not ready, we'll stop. I'll understand."

Marissa released a shaky breath and tried to find the right words to assure Bianca. "I know. It's just…"

"What is it? Talk to me, please."

"It's just that I've never felt so much all at one time. It's a little overwhelming. I've never been with a woman before, and..."

"You're scared."

Marissa struggled to swallow the lump that had formed in throat so that she could continue. "It's not that. I trust you completely. I know you would never hurt me or do anything I wasn't comfortable with. I've never known anyone quite like you. You give so much of yourself to others and never ask for anything in return. You've been to hell and back, and yet somehow, you haven't let it change you, who you are. You're amazing, and you don't even realize it. You want this to be perfect for me. Well, I want the same for you. I've never loved anyone as much as I love you. I've never wanted anyone as much as I want you. I just, I just don't want to disappoint you."

Bianca's eyes glistened as she gazed into Marissa's eyes. She lovingly brushed away a lock of silky hair from her girlfriend's face. "You're incredible. You're worried about me. Marissa, I love you. You could never disappoint me. We can wait for as long as you need. I'm not going anywhere."

Marissa saw the love in Bianca's eyes and knew down to the depths of her soul that this was the right moment. "I don't want to stop. I want you, all of you. Will you show me?"

"Are you sure?"

"I've never been more sure of anything in my life." Marissa leaned forward to capture Bianca's lips in a loving kiss.

Bianca carefully removed Marissa's shirt exposing the soft, creamy skin of the redhead. Marissa shivered slightly as her girlfriend's fingers gently caressed the sensitive skin along her neckline. The redhead's hands made their way to the rid Bianca of her shirt, the desire to see more of Bianca suddenly pushing her forward through scattered nerves, and it soon joined her own on the floor.

Marissa's hands trembled as they made their way to the buttons of Bianca's jeans. Her girlfriend tenderly took her hands in her own instantly calming the redhead's frazzled nerves. The slightest of nods answered the question that resided in the ever-darkening eyes of Bianca. Yes, I'm sure I want this. A small gasp escaped from her as Bianca released her hands, and the brunette's own hands moved down to Marissa's jeans slowly unfastening the buttons and zipper and then gently tugging her pants downward.

Soon, both women were before each other in nothing but their undergarments. Marissa shivered again under the loving gaze of Bianca as it raked over her entire body. She had never seen such love before in the eyes of a partner, and it had the redhead launching herself forward grasping the silky brown locks and crashing her lips against those of her girlfriend for a fervent kiss that soon deepened as tongues were willingly granted entrance and collided.

Bianca's hands slowly crept around Marissa's waist, traveling up from the small of her back and to her bra, deftly removing the garment. They slowly pulled apart in need of air, and Marissa blushed as her girlfriend's eyes wandered over her exposed breasts, seemingly captivated by the sight. Want, like she had never felt before, pushed the redhead forward as she fumbled with the hooks of her girlfriend's bra. Bianca started to move to help her, but she stopped upon seeing the look in Marissa's eyes, knowing instinctively the importance to her girlfriend of performing this task herself. She was finally able to release the last hook, removing it and throwing it aside. The awestruck look and love that was evident in the redhead's eyes sent a shudder through Bianca as she gave in to the need to capture Marissa's lips again. A loud moan escaped from both women as their exposed skin made first contact and bodies melded together.

Her hands glided down Bianca's sides marveling at the feel of her and rested on her waist. Marissa pulled her closer as she began to place kisses along her girlfriend's stomach causing muscles to tense and her to inhale sharply. The brunette struggled to maintain some semblance of control wanting to take things slowly for Marissa, to make this as perfect as possible for her. She wrapped her hands in the soft red hair of her girlfriend and gently pulled her back. Bianca knelt down to look in those beautiful hazel eyes making sure Marissa was still okay with everything. She was greeted with a look of desire she had not seen before, and a knowing smile formed across the face of the redhead. I'm still okay. No freaking out or going back. As if to prove her point, Marissa's hands crept downward sliding the brunette's panties down. Bianca shivered at the loving touch of her girlfriend and moved her own hands to slowly remove Marissa's panties. Bianca finally gave into the need of feeling her girlfriend's lips against her own yet again, leaning in for a searing kiss. Marissa drifted backward and pulled Bianca with her as the brunette rested on top of her, the full body contact causing both women to moan. They slowly made their way to the top of the bed, the effort causing their desire to heighten even more as their entire bodies rubbed against each other.

Bianca reluctantly pulled away from Marissa's lips to leave a trail of kisses along her neckline slowly making her way to Marissa's breasts. The brunette stopped and raised her head, locking eyes with her girlfriend to again make sure she wasn't pushing too fast or asking for too much. Hazel eyes began to glisten as she saw the love in Bianca's eyes. Never before had a partner taken so much care with every part of her being during lovemaking. Marissa swallowed hard as she was filled with love, desire, and awe for her girlfriend. A shaky breath followed by another slight nod let the brunette it was more than safe to proceed. Bianca lowered her head again to her girlfriend's breasts. Marissa moaned as the tortured pleasure derived by Bianca's tongue pushed her closer and closer to the edge. "Oh my God!"

The brunette continued her torturous path over her stomach and slowly downward as hands continue to caress. Marissa was becoming incapable of rational thought as the growing ache in between her legs screamed in need and want of Bianca and began to overwhelm her. A deep moan escaped from her throat along with the plea, "Oh my God! Please, Bianca!"

Bianca reached her final destination as she heard Marissa's plea. She slowly slid her tongue past her girlfriend's outer folds and into her aching center. Marissa's head jerked back as hands grasped lush brown hair, pulling her closer as her back arched. She began to unravel under the ecstasy being brought on by Bianca's seemingly magical tongue as her girlfriend drank in all of her. Marissa convulsed wildly when Bianca slowly moved her tongue upward to her throbbing hub and worked its magic there. There was an explosion of sight and sound as Marissa's orgasm rocked her to the core. "Oh God, Bianca!" The redhead's entire body went limp moments later, and Bianca slowly made her way back up Marissa's body kissing every inch of it along the way. The brunette watched as her girlfriend slowly recovered. Bianca saw a brilliant smile form along Marissa's face as she opened her eyes, and they fastened on Bianca's.

"You're staring."

Bianca returned the smile. "I can't help it. You are absolutely beautiful."

"I think you're a little biased."

"I speak only the truth, especially when it comes to you. Are you okay?"

"I'm more than okay, if I didn't make myself clear about that fact a few minutes ago."

Bianca chuckled. "Now, that you mention it. You did seem like you were enjoying yourself."

"That was. I never. I can't find."

"What?"

"You manage to leave me speechless sometimes."

"I do?" An amused smile crossed Bianca's face.

"Yeah, you really do, but I think I finally can form a coherent sentence or two. I've never experienced anything like that before, and the only reason for that is the simple fact that it's you. You make me feel so loved, so wanted. I've never felt anything close to that before. It was incredible. You are incredible. I love you so much."

Marissa pulled Bianca closer and tenderly kissed her. As she did, a wave of desire swept over her. The need to show Bianca exactly how much she loved her became a necessity. Marissa rolled on top of her girlfriend and deepened the kiss. Her hands began to explore the wondrous soft curves of Bianca causing her to shiver. Marissa marveled at the feel of Bianca and how natural this all seemed to her. The brunette moaned as Marissa's hands found their way to her breasts and thumbs began to slowly tease hardened nipples. The redhead's lips soon followed the trail her hands had laid, and her tongue soon replaced thumbs in the torturous teasing causing Bianca to moan again. "Oh my God!"

Marissa soon resumed her exploration, and slowly, her lips traveled lower as instinct took over. Bianca was driven closer to the edge, the heat between her legs intensifying and slowly becoming unbearable causing her to moan. "Please, Marissa!" The redhead plunged forward into her girlfriend's soaked center, becoming lost in the taste and sensation of being this close to the woman she loved so much. Bianca arched backwards as she grasped Marissa, pulling her closer. Bianca soon caved and convulsed in exquisite ecstasy as Marissa's tongue made its way to her throbbing nub. "Oh my God, Marissa!"

Bianca's body went limp moments later, and Marissa slowly made her way up to rest her head next to the brunette's, trailing kisses the entire way. She watched in silent awe as Bianca slowly recovered. Marissa had never seen anyone as beautiful as Bianca was at that moment. She had never felt so connected to anyone as she did to Bianca in that moment. Marissa felt so much love for her girlfriend that she was afraid her heart would burst. A radiant smile began to cross Bianca's face as she opened her eyes and gazed into Marissa's. "Who's staring now?"

Marissa sighed contently. "Can't help it. I love the view."

Bianca's breath hitched as she saw the love that was reflected in Marissa's eyes, and in those loving hazel eyes, she could clearly see their future together. Never before had she felt so loved. It was absolute, and there were no doubts, no hesitation, and no fear. Want and need for this beautiful woman again became overwhelming, and she pulled the redhead into her for an achingly tender kiss. Marissa moaned as she felt every ounce of the love Bianca felt for her. The kiss soon deepened as their shared desire and passion escalated. Another moan escaped from Marissa as her girlfriend soon rolled back on top of her. Every inch of their bodies melded together perfectly. Bianca slowly pulled away as one of hands drifted lower, caressing each magnificent curve of Marissa until it gently eased between her legs. As Bianca slid two fingers easily inside Marissa, the redhead moaned loudly and captured her girlfriend's lips for a searing kiss as a rhythm was soon set between them. Each thrust drove Marissa to a height of sheer ecstasy that she had never known before. "Bianca, oh God!" A wave of euphoria soon enveloped her as she became completely undone, clutching the brunette closer.

As Marissa's breathing slowed and her heartbeat returned to normal, she was completely awestruck by the depth of the love she felt for and from Bianca. She knew beyond all doubt that their future lay together, and time would only strengthen their love and connection. The real world may intervene and test them, but no matter what might come their way, they would handle it together. Marissa beamed as her eyes met Bianca's, and she gently caressed the brunette's face. She became lost in the warm brown eyes of Bianca and the love she saw there as she pulled her closer for a slow, sensual kiss. As their tongues collided, the redhead felt the need for more of Bianca build again. The brunette moaned in surprised delight as Marissa moved on top of her, deepening the kiss even more. Her fingers traced the velvety soft skin of the brunette, memorizing each line and each reaction her touch caused the brunette. Her hand paused as it made its way between Bianca's thighs. Marissa gazed up into the darkening eyes of her girlfriend. A question was evident in the redhead's eyes. Am I doing, Is this right? Bianca took a ragged breath and nodded. Oh God, yes! You're doing great. Marissa marveled at the sensation she experienced as she slid two fingers inside Bianca. It was a feeling she had never experienced before and one that she knew, in that instant, that she would never grow tired of with Bianca. She had never felt so close to anyone before. Her trance was broken by the moan that escaped from the brunette. The two set a steady pace, and Bianca pulled the redhead to her, crashing their lips together as it began to increase and intensify. Marissa could feel Bianca tighten around her and instinctively applied more pressure. Bianca cried out, "Marissa!" as she was driven over the edge and completely unraveled.

The two lay entwined and gasping for air. Neither was able to speak for several minutes as they basked in the love they shared. Bianca slowly pulled the redhead closer, giving her a loving kiss. "I love you."

"I love you too." Marissa nestled closer as Bianca held her, and both women drifted off to a blissful slumber.

/

As Bianca lay in that state that exists somewhere between being awake and dreaming, thoughts began to invade her mind. Did I dream what happened? Or was it real? If it was just a dream, I'm perfectly content to lie here and keep on dreaming. Her brain soon shifted into overdrive and sleep was no longer an option. Bianca found herself waking up to two wonderful sensations. The first was the press of the soft, warm skin of Marissa against her own. To be holding the woman she loved with all of her heart was overwhelming and caused her heart to skip a beat. The second one was the feeling in her heart. It was sheer happiness. Both sensations were the result of the woman lying in her arms and her love. Bianca sighed happily, and she couldn't recall ever feeling this way before. It wasn't a dream. It had all happened, and Bianca smiled as the memories of last night came rushing back. Marissa had been nervous about disappointing her. This was something that Bianca knew down to the bottom of her soul wasn't remotely possible. The love they shared was too strong, built on too solid of a foundation, and she was proven right repeatedly last night. Marissa was amazing. She seemed to follow her natural instincts, leaving Bianca wanting for nothing and feeling all of the love that Marissa had for her in every caress, every kiss.

Bianca glanced at the clock on the nightstand. They still had some time before they would have to leave to tackle the day ahead, and the brunette was not ready to give up the feeling of holding Marissa in her arms just yet. She felt the redhead begin to stir, and she shifted slightly so she could watch her. Marissa was absolutely beautiful. She looked so peaceful as she lay there sleeping, dreaming. Bianca saw a smile begin to form along the redhead's face, and she could feel the desire she had for this beautiful woman burn inside her yet again.

Marissa stirred as she dreamed of Bianca. She had been dreaming about the brunette ever since she had allowed herself to acknowledge her true feelings for her. These dreams, well, these dreams were unlike any others she had ever had before. They were so vivid and stirred her to the core, and when she woke up, she was left dazed and frustrated each time because it had only been a dream. This time was different though, and she wondered only briefly at first if it was just another dream before realizing it was far from it. The memories of last night soon began to flood her senses. To be completely honest with herself, Marissa had no idea what to expect and was nervous. She only knew that she trusted Bianca completely, loved her completely and wanted and needed her like she had not wanted or needed anyone else before. When Marissa told her how she was feeling, Bianca understood and was willing to wait for as long as she needed to feel comfortable. Marissa didn't want to wait, didn't need to wait, because she knew it was the right moment.

Bianca was everything she had ever dreamt of having in a lover. Every step along the way, Bianca made sure that she was okay with everything that was happening. Marissa recalled Bianca's touch and the feelings and responses it evoked. She had never felt so connected to someone, so close to someone on so many levels, as she did to Bianca. She had never felt so loved, so complete. Marissa had followed the brunette's lead at first but then found her natural instincts take over, needing to show Bianca how much she loved her. She remembered the sensation of entering Bianca for the first time. It was like nothing she had ever felt before, and she knew that she would never get enough of Bianca. Marissa heard Bianca's happy sigh and felt her shift next to her. She could feel Bianca's eyes caress her skin just as her hands had done last night, and it sent a wave of heat coursing through her. Marissa slowly opened her eyes, and they met the brunette's.

Bianca's smile was radiant. "Good morning!"

Marissa's smile matched the brunette's. "I'll say! Good morning, yourself! You're staring again. Is this something that's going to be a regular occurrence?"

"Most definitely since I can't seem to help myself. I'm absolutely in love with the view. In fact, I see it becoming a very bad habit, one that I'm not inclined to ever break."

Marissa found herself getting lost in the warm chocolate eyes of Bianca.

"Who's staring now?" The brunette asked totally amused.

"What? Oh, I'm sorry. Actually wait, let me change that. On second thought, I'm not sorry. You are positively breathtaking. I do believe you're right about this becoming a bad habit, one that I'm incapable of or unwilling to break myself of."

Bianca turned serious, needing to be absolutely certain that Marissa was okay with everything that had happened. "Are you okay? Last night was new, and…"

Marissa leaned closer, placing a loving kiss on the brunette's lips immediately silencing any doubts she may have. "Bianca, like I told you last night, I'm more than okay. In fact, I feel amazing. Last night was unlike anything I've ever experienced before, and it's all because of you, who you are, how much you love me and how much I love you. When I'm with you, I don't feel like some damn possession or prize. I feel loved and wanted like I never have before. I love you, and I'm not going anywhere. I'm yours for as long as you want me. I'll keep telling you that every day we're together, hopefully for the rest of our lives. I just hope that I …"

It was Bianca's turn to silence any doubt from her lover as she kissed her tenderly. "Marissa, I love you, and you did not, nor could you ever disappoint me. In fact, uh, I think you were pretty damn amazing."

"Honestly?"

"Most definitely, and by the way, I'm not going anywhere either. I'm yours for as long as you want me, and I'm planning on that being forever because that's how long I want you in my life."

"That's very good to know. As for last night, well, I think I'm learning from the best." A mischievous smile soon appeared. "Of course, I've always been an overachiever so I wouldn't mind some additional lessons, and since there's no time like the present…" Marissa shifted suddenly and was now lying on top of the brunette.

Bianca's breath caught at the unexpected move. "Uh, Mar, Marissa, as much as I would love this to continue, we probably should get up."

Things took a decided turn as soon as those words left the brunette's mouth. Marissa received a call from Caleb informing her that JR had somehow managed to get the custody hearing moved up. This had the couple scramble to get dressed after Bianca assured Marissa that she would be there right beside her every step of the way. Once they were dressed, they headed to Krystal's for a quick bite. Bianca was able to convince Marissa to make the stop since they had a little time before the hearing.

/

The couple sat in a booth at Krystal's picking at their respective lunches. It was clear to Bianca that Marissa's nerves about the upcoming hearing had started to get the best of her.

"You really should eat something. Do you want me to do the airplane?" Bianca speared a tomato from her salad and started to 'fly' it towards her girlfriend.

The action had its intended effect, and Marissa laughed. "Really? Stop." She was interrupted from further comment when her cellphone rang. "Caleb? Is everything okay? They didn't change the hearing again, did they?"

Bianca watched as Marissa listened to whatever Caleb was telling her. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Kendall and Greenlee enter the restaurant and make their way over to the couple's table.

"Hey, Binx. Is everything okay?" Kendall could tell something was up from what little she was picking up from Marissa's side of the conversation.

"To be honest, I'm not quite sure." She motioned for the other women to have a seat. Her attention was fully directed at Marissa as she ended her call.

"Okay. Thank you for calling me and letting me know. We'll talk more when I get to the office."

"What did Caleb say?"

"Apparently, JR tried to bribe the judge."

"He what?!"

"Yeah, and not surprisingly, the judge didn't take it too well. The hearing is just a formality, and I don't need to be there. He's giving me full custody of AJ."

"That's great!"

"Wait a minute. We're coming late to the party. There was a custody hearing today?" Kendall asked.

It was then that Marissa noticed Kendall and Greenlee. "Oh. Hi. Yeah. I got a call from Caleb this morning. There was a last-minute emergency custody hearing. JR sprang it on me."

"A sneak attack to try and throw you off. That sounds like JR." Greenlee said as she shook her head.

"That's what Bianca told me when she was talking me off the ledge when Caleb called me earlier at the hotel." Marissa smiled at her girlfriend and squeezed her hand. "She's been my rock this morning and convinced me to get something to eat to keep my strength up for whatever JR has planned."

"My little sister is very smart. You definitely should listen to her."

Bianca shook her head. "I'm just speaking the truth and trying to be as supportive as I can. You're still worried about something though, aren't you?"

"Yeah, I am. I don't know what JR is thinking. Bribing a judge? I just can't understand that."

Kendall sighed. "It sounds like he's taking a page out of Adam's book."

Greenlee nodded. "She's right. There's not a doubt in my mind that Adam has bribed a few judges before. Be glad that JR tried to bribe an honest one."

"Oh, I am." Marissa sighed. "The one who gets hurt the most in all of this is AJ."

"He's such a sweet and kind boy. You've done a great job with him, Red. Just keep doing what you're doing, and he'll be okay. Plus, you're not alone in this. You have Bianca, the two of us, and a lot of other people willing to help." Kendall reassured Marissa.

"Thank you. That means more than you know. I can't tell you how glad I am to have the two of you on my side." Marissa smiled at Kendall and Greenlee before turning to Bianca. "I'm especially lucky to have you."

"Always." Bianca squeezed Marissa's hand.

"Okay. I should get to the office and talk to Caleb about our next steps. Do you want me to drop you off at your place or the Center?"

"The Miranda Center would be great if you don't mind."

"I don't mind at all. It gives us more time to spend together."

Bianca grinned. "I won't say no to that."

Marissa's smile matched her girlfriend's. "That's the answer I was hoping for." She held out her hand to Bianca, who took it happily, before turning back to the other two women. "Thanks for your support, and I'll see you both later."

Greenlee turned to her and saw that her attention was still focused on the couple as they exited the restaurant. "Okay. What's with the look?"

Kendall's attention snapped back to her friend. "What?"

"That look. Something's on your mind. Something that concerns them. What is it?"

After a brief pause to gather her thoughts, Kendall sighed. "Did you notice anything different between them?"

"Different? Not really. I mean Marissa's worried about JR and what he might be up to which I can't say I blame her. As for Bianca, she's worried about Marissa which is totally in character for her. So, I'm not sure what you mean by different."

"Did they seem closer than they've been recently?"

"Closer? Closer, how?"

Kendall rolled her eyes and raised an eyebrow.

That expression was all Greenlee needed to get what her friend meant. "Oh, closer! Now that you mention it, they were sitting awfully close to each other and seemed to touch each other a bit more than usual. Man, I'm slipping. I don't know how I missed that. I'm really disappointed in myself."

"Way to make it about you."

Greenlee simply shrugged. "Like you're surprised. So, do you think they took their relationship to the next level? That your little sister showed Marissa exactly what she was missing when she was with JR?"

Kendall sighed. "Okay, more detail than I want to think about."

"Hey, you brought it up."

"And I'm sorry I did, at least with you."

"Oh, don't be like that. Seriously though, you think the two of them …" Greenlee let the question remain unasked, not wanting to push Kendall too far.

"Yeah, I think so."

"Well, good for them! They both deserve to be happy, and judging by the smiles on their faces, they are."

Kendall smiled softly. Bianca, more than anyone else, deserved to be happy, and she could tell Marissa really cared about her sister. She had already proven several times that she would fight for Bianca. That was something none of Bianca's previous partners had done. "You're right. They do deserve all the happiness, especially my little sister. I think they found it with each other. And if JR does anything to get in the way of their happiness, he'll have to deal with us."

Greenlee nodded. "Damn straight."

/

With the exception of a few blowups from JR over the next several days, things had been quiet. Marissa had been granted temporary full custody of AJ due in large part to those blowups and the fact that they scared the boy. The redhead was doing what she could to protect her son while trying to get JR to sober up and get help so he could salvage his relationship with AJ. To that end, Marissa was at the Chandler mansion to try and get through to her ex.

"Where's AJ?" JR asked as he entered the room where Marissa was waiting for him.

"He's not coming."

"What do you mean he's not coming? It's my time with him. You can't keep him from me!"

"AJ is scared right now JR."

"Scared of what?"

"You. Your anger. If you just give him some time, he'll come around."

"Me?! He's scared of me?! He wouldn't be scared of me if you and your girlfriend weren't filling his head with lies."

"Bianca and I are doing no such thing. He doesn't like it when you yell, and he was really scared the other day when you grabbed him and tried to force him to go with you."

"He's my son! I wouldn't hurt him, and he would know that if you weren't telling him stories about me!"

"I haven't done anything like that, JR, and you know it. What you did the other day was all on you." Marissa stopped. "You've been drinking again, haven't you?"

"I don't know what you're talking about."

"Don't deny it, JR. You reek of alcohol. I'm not letting you see AJ when you're like this."

"You're not letting me see him?! Who in the hell are you to decide that?!"

"I'm his mother, and I have full custody of him. Get sober, and then we'll talk." Marissa turned to leave.

"Oh, I don't think so. In fact, I think AJ will be coming back home, and you'll be turning custody over to me."

"Seriously? You're delusional."

JR picked up his laptop and tapped it. "You're right. I don't think so. I know so."

"What do you have there? Some fake study about how children of gay parents are damaged? Actually, it's quite the opposite. As long as children are raised in a loving home, they are happy, healthy, and well-adjusted."

"No, it's nothing like that. Remember you were the one to force my hand." JR opened up the laptop and tapped a few keys before turning the screen for the redhead to see.

Marissa paled when she saw the video of her and Bianca in her hotel room. They were on the bed and beginning to make love. "How?"

A sinister smile crossed JR's face. "I have my ways. You'll give me custody and sign away any rights you have. If you don't, this goes viral, and AJ will think that you made this and put it out there for the whole world to see."

"You are a son of a bitch." Marissa spit out as she left.

"That may be, but I'm getting my son back! I expect him here no later than tomorrow!" JR called out after her triumphally.

/

Marissa found Bianca waiting for her at Krystal's as promised.

Bianca could immediately tell something was wrong with her girlfriend. "What happened? What did JR do?"

"JR wants custody of AJ and for me to give up my rights to him. If I don't, he's going to throw us the biggest coming out party there has ever been."

"What do you mean by that?"

"He somehow has a video of us together. Specifically, our first time together."

"A video? Of us together?"

"Yes, together."

"How?" Bianca asked, shocked by this revelation.

"I don't know, but he has one and took great pleasure in showing it to me. He said if I don't give him custody and sign away my rights that he'll make it go viral and look like I released it."

With a deep breath to gather herself, Bianca gently took her distraught girlfriend's hands in her own. "Hey. We did nothing wrong. JR is the one at fault."

"I know, but what about the kids? I don't want them hurt."

"We'll keep them as safe as we can, and if JR does release it, we'll explain things as best as we can to them. You're not going to have to give up AJ. We won't let that happen."

Marissa looked in Bianca's eyes and found the reassurance she needed to fight. "We're going to need help."

/

Across the restaurant, Caleb observed the couple. He could tell Marissa was upset from the moment she entered Krystal's. Something told him that JR was behind whatever caused her to be that way. He really liked Marissa and saw her as a surrogate daughter since they started working together at the firm. Caleb was also one of the many Pine Valley residents that liked Bianca. While he may have issues with Erica (and let's face it, the vast majority of Pine Valley did as well), that was definitely not the case with her youngest daughter. With his mind made up, Caleb crossed the room to the couple's table. He overheard Marissa's last statement when he reached them.

"Good afternoon, ladies. What do you need help with? I'm at your service for whatever it might be."

"Caleb, just the person I was thinking about. Please join us." Marissa said as she indicated an empty seat at their table.

"Am I safe in assuming that Junior is behind whatever is going on?"

Bianca nodded. "You would be correct in that assumption."

Marissa glanced at Bianca for assurance before she revealed what her ex did. It wasn't going to be easy because it was slightly embarrassing. "I don't know how, but somehow, JR has a video of Bianca and I together in my room at the Yacht Club."

After a brief pause, Caleb understood what Marissa was saying without actually saying it. "Oh."

"Yes, and if I don't give up custody of AJ along with my parental rights to him, he's to have it go viral and make it seem like I'm behind it."

Caleb raised an eyebrow at that last statement. He could tell Marissa had been thrown off by JR's threats, but he needed to put them aside and focus on what she could do to fight her ex-husband. "How exactly did he get the video? And how does he plan on doing that?"

"He didn't say, and I didn't want to stick around and see him gloat."

"See who gloat?" Kendall asked as she and Greenlee happened to be walking by the couple's table.

"And about what?" Greenlee chimed in.

Bianca glanced at Marissa who nodded. "Have a seat. I have a feeling we're going to need your help too."

"The 'he' in question is JR, and the what is a video he has of Bianca and I together."

"As in together, together?" Greenlee asked. Internally, she had to give it to Kendall for figuring out that the couple had taken their relationship to the next level.

"Yes."

"How in the hell did he get that?"

"We're not sure."

"Let me guess. He's threatening you with it." Kendall's guess was dead on. "What does he want?"

Marissa nodded. "Yes, he is. He wants custody of AJ and for me to sign away my parental rights."

"And if you don't, he'll release it. That son of a bitch."

"That's exactly what I called him, Kendall."

"Atta girl. Well, we obviously can't let any of this happen. Whatever you need from us, we're in."

"What Kendall said. We want in on whatever you come up with to take dipshit down."

Kendall looked at her friend and smirked. "Dipshit, huh? I like it! Dipshit is going down. What's the plan?"

"That brings me back to my questions. Any thoughts on them, Marissa?" Caleb could tell her mind was working it out. After a moment of studying her, he saw something click.

"He had to have had inside help. I know the owner, and there is no way that Evelyn Foster would knowingly be part of this."

"I know her as well. She's helping with the Center's fundraising gala. I agree with Rissa. There is no way that Evelyn would allow that type of invasion of privacy of her guests."

"Which means?"

"He bribed someone to get the camera in my room. We need to see if that camera is still there. Kendall and Greenlee?" Marissa knew exactly where Caleb was going with this line of questioning.

"We're on it! We just need your room key, Red."

Marissa handed over the keycard. "Thank you. We'll catch up later."

With a quick nod Kendall and Greenlee left on their mission.

"What about us, Rissa?"

"We need to talk to Mrs. Foster. Caleb, would you mind talking to Jesse and giving him a heads up on attempted extortion and various other charges?"

Caleb smiled proudly at his protegee. "It will be my pleasure. I'll be in touch."

"After we talk with Evelyn, we need to talk about the kids in case we can't stop JR."

Bianca nodded. "You're right. We do. Our priority is them, but with Caleb, Kendall, and Greenlee helping us, I know we're going to stop him." Bianca assured her girlfriend. "Do you want me to call Evelyn and see if she's free?"

"Yes. The sooner we talk to her, the better."

/

"It looks like we got here just in time, Kendall. That maintenance worker is trying to get into Marissa's room." Greenlee indicated a man at the door to Marissa's room.

"Oh, you're right. I wonder if he's returning to the scene of the crime. If he is, there's a good chance the camera is still there."

Greenlee nodded and hurried her walk up to stop the man from entering the room and possibly removing any evidence. "Hi! Is there anything I can help you with?"

"I'm sorry?"

"Well, you're trying to get into my room." Greenlee held up the room key. "I have to wonder why because I haven't called maintenance to report any problems. So, why would you be trying to get into my room?" She glanced at the man's uniform and saw the name on his nametag. "Stan."

The term 'deer in the headlights' could best describe the expression on Stan's face. "Uh."

Kendall watched as the man struggled to come up with an excuse. "Is something wrong, Marissa?"

"I don't know. Stan here was trying to get into my room, and I'm not sure why." Greenlee played along. He may know Marissa's name, but he obviously didn't know what she looked like.

"Mrs. Chandler?" Stan managed to ask with the first name that came to mind.

Gotcha! "No, my last name is Tasker."

"Uh, I must have the wrong room. I'm, I'm sorry." Stan managed to choke out before he literally darted down the hallway and away from the room.

"Well, that was interesting."

"And very telling. He used the name Chandler. The only reason I can think of for him to use that name is if JR was involved, throwing his name around, and calling Marissa his wife." Kendall noted.

"Exactly what I was thinking. Let's check out the room."

/

"Bianca, it's good to see you. Do you have an update on the gala? It's good to see you as well, Marissa. I hope everything is going well with your stay here." Evelyn Foster was in her late 60's, average height and weight, with grey hair. She greeted the couple warmly. "Please have a seat. Would you like something to drink?"

"I'm fine, Evelyn."

"So am I, but thank you." Marissa waited a beat before addressing the question that had been directed her way. "I wanted to talk to you about my stay."

"Is there a problem?"

"Yes, there is, and I wanted to discuss it with you. It involves Bianca as well."

"Oh, it does? What is it? How can I help?"

"It has come to my attention that a camera has been installed in my room, and a recording has been made of Bianca and I, together."

A puzzled expression crossed Evelyn's face. Eyebrows shot up when she understood the hidden meaning along with the combination of a blush and anger on the couple's faces. "Oh my! Someone made a recording of you in an intimate situation?!"

/

"Okay, you look up there, Kendall, and I'll hold the chair." Greenlee said as she rolled the room's desk chair over to just under a light in the ceiling.

"And why do I have to get on the chair?" Kendall quirked an eyebrow with an amused expression.

Greenlee rolled her eyes and huffed. "Because you're taller than me, and we both know the recording had to have been made from a higher vantage point based on what Marissa told us. Happy?"

"About you admitting that I'm taller than you? Yes. About why we have to do this? No." Kendall carefully stood on the chair and checked out the fixture carefully. "Ah, I know why Stan was so anxious to get into the room. Found it!"

"Talk about timing. Can you get it out?"

"I think so. Hand me your phone though. I want to take a picture of it before I remove it."

"Good idea! Is that the Kane in you, being married to Zach, or hanging around Marissa?" Greenlee asked as she handed her cellphone over to her friend.

After snapping several pictures, Kendall handed the cellphone back to Greenlee. "Probably a combination of all three. I just need to get the right angle to pull it out. Got it!"

Greenlee helped her friend down. "Good job! We should let Marissa know that we've found it."

Kendall nodded and placed the device in her purse before she called Marissa.

/

Marissa could tell from the horrified expression on the older woman's face that she had no idea of the camera's existence. "Yes, they did. Obviously, we didn't know that a camera had been planted in my room. I became aware of the fact that a recording had been made by my ex-husband earlier today when he showed it to me. He then threatened to have it go viral if I didn't give up custody of my son."

"AJ? Oh no. That is horrible, absolutely horrible." Evelyn had grown fond of both Marissa and AJ in the time they had taken up residence at the Yacht Club. To have something like this happen, something that could hurt both of them, in her place of business was beyond the pale and would not go unpunished. "I am so sorry this happened. I can assure you that I would not permit anything like this here. I will launch an investigation immediately and bring in the police."

Bianca quickly reassured the older woman. "We know you wouldn't, Evelyn. We wanted you to be aware of what was happening."

"As for contacting the police or conducting any type of investigation, we need you to hold off for just a little while. We want to find the camera first." Marissa's phone rang, and she noted who was on the other end of the call. "Excuse me, but I need to take this. It's Greenlee. Hopefully, they have something for us."

"Of course." Evelyn nodded.

"Hi, Greenlee. Did you find anything?"

"Oh yeah, we definitely did. We're in your room. Where are you?"

"Bianca and I are in Evelyn Foster's office. Why don't you join us here? You can show us what you found."

"Sounds good. We're on our way. Oh, is there any way you can have your room secured so no one else can get in?"

"Let me ask." Marissa turned to Evelyn. "Is there any way to secure my room so there are no unwanted visitors?"

"Yes, as a matter of fact, there is." The older woman went to her computer and pulled up Marissa's room information. After a few taps on the keyboard, she glanced up. "Done. I can reprogram your room key from here."

"Perfect. I'll have you do that once Kendall and Greenlee join us. Let me let them know that we're good."

"I heard you, Marissa. Kendall and I are on the way." Greenlee disconnected the call and headed to Evelyn's office.

"Well, they found something. I don't know what, but they found something and are on their way."

"Let me tell the front desk to send them back as soon as they get here." Evelyn placed a quick call to a desk clerk instructing them to send Kendall and Greenlee back to her office as soon as they arrived. With that done, she directed her attention back to the couple. "May I ask why you don't me to the call police right now?"

"I want to see what they found first. Plus, the police are being contacted right about now. Caleb Cortlandt, one of the partners at my firm, is representing me in all of my dealings with JR."

"I know Caleb very well. He's good, but it's obvious that you know that as well."

"I do. He helped calm me down when I first found out about what JR had done. Well, Caleb and Bianca." Marissa smiled.

"I wish I could do more." Bianca returned the smile.

Evelyn observed the couple. It was plain as day how much they loved each other. She hated that Marissa's ex-husband was trying to interfere with what they had found. Watching them made Evelyn remember her late husband, and the love they shared. She vowed to do whatever was necessary to help them stop JR. Yes, she knew the Chandlers had power. However, she wasn't without her own resources, and she would use them to help Marissa.

"Whatever you need, you let me know. I'll help however I can. That includes pressing charges against whoever planted the camera as well as JR. He endangered not only your privacy but that of every one of my guests. I will not allow that."

"Thank you, Evelyn." Marissa could tell the older woman meant every word she said.

A knock on the door interrupted the conversation.

"Come in."

Kendall and Greenlee opened the door hearing Evelyn's permission and popped inside, closing the door behind them.

"Evelyn, it's good to see you." Kendall nodded.

"It's good to see both of you as well. I just wish it were under better circumstances. Please have a seat."

"I think we can all agree on that." Greenlee added.

"You said that you found something in my room?"

"We did, Red. You said that judging from the angle of the video the camera was most likely in a light in the ceiling. So, we started there, and I found this." Kendall pulled the tiny camera from her purse for the others to see.

"That son of a bitch."

"There's no way that JR planted that himself. He had to have had help."

"You're right, Binx, and we think we know who."

Greenlee took up the story from there. "When we were going to Marissa's room, we noticed a maintenance worker getting ready to enter."

"Why would a maintenance worker be going into my room? I haven't reported any issues."

"That's what I told him. That I hadn't reported any problems and asked why he was trying to get in. Oh yeah, I said I was you."

"And I backed her up." Kendall smiled. "We didn't think you would mind in this case, Red."

Marissa chuckled. "Not in the least. Obviously, he doesn't know what I look like."

"Nope. He also wasn't fast enough to come up with a good cover. He asked if I was Mrs. Chandler, and when I said my name was Tasker, he said he had the wrong room and bolted."

"He was probably there to get that." Marissa pointed to the camera in Kendall's hand.

"That's exactly what we thought."

"I don't suppose you got his name?" Evelyn asked.

"As a matter of fact, we did. His name is Stan." Greenlee answered proudly.

"I'm impressed. Let me see if we have anyone named Stan on staff." Evelyn tapped a few keys. "We have a Stan Hudson in our maintenance department. Is this who you saw?" The older woman turned her screen for the women to see the picture she had on file for him for his badge.

"That's him."

"Yeah, that's Stan." Kendall confirmed her friend's identification.

"He doesn't look familiar to me."

"Me either, Rissa."

Evelyn turned the screen back to herself to read more on the worker. "Let's see. He's been here for six months. No issues have been reported during that time."

"Oh, Marissa, you'll be proud of Kendall!"

"I will, huh? Why is that?"

"I took pictures of where the camera was before I removed it!"

"You're right! Good job! We'll need that for Jesse. Speaking of him, I need to let Caleb know about this latest development. He'll want to let Jesse know about this." Marissa fired off a quick text to Caleb letting him know the latest. No sooner had the text been sent than her phone rang. "Hey, Caleb. Do you mind if I put you on speaker? We're all in Evelyn's office."

"That's perfect. I'm still with Jesse and will do the same on my end."

"I think we have everyone." Marissa said as she laid her cellphone on Evelyn's desk, close enough for everyone to hear and participate in the conversation.

"Hello, everyone. I wish we were meeting under better circumstances. Caleb has given me his update. Do you want to tell what's been happening on your side?" Jesse asked.

Marissa gave a quick summary of what information they had now.

"And you have both pictures of where the device was located along with the device itself, Kendall?"

"I do, Jesse. I figured it was a good idea to take the pictures before I removed it."

"You're right. That was very smart. It's not quite the same as the police taking them, but given the circumstances, I understand the need to remove it to prevent any further damage. This Stan Hudson is one of your employees, Evelyn?"

"Unfortunately and for now, he is."

"I'm glad you said for now. I have no doubt that you want to fire him, but I need you to keep him on staff for a little while longer."

"I had a feeling you would."

"Just a little while longer. I promise. Then, you can fire him, right before I arrest him. Sound good?"

"It sounds very good. Thank you, Jesse!"

The police chief chuckled. "You're welcome. Kendall, and Greenlee, we should meet. I'll need those pictures and the device. Marissa and Bianca, I'll need statements from you. Then, we need to plan our next step."

"We can meet at Wildwind if you want in say an hour." Caleb offered.

Marissa glanced at the others who all nodded. "That works for us. We'll see you there." Once the call was disconnected, the redhead addressed Evelyn Foster as the others gathered their things. "Thank you for your help. You don't have to worry about problems from me. I know you didn't have anything to do with this."

"Thank you for that, Marissa. Whatever you need me to do next, just let me know. For now, this stays between us. Oh, if you give me your key, I'll reprogram it for you."

With the newly programmed key, the younger women headed off to their next meeting.

/

Once everyone was assembled at Wildwind, drinks were distributed, and the discussion began in earnest.

"Okay, Kendall, do you have the camera?" Jesse asked.

"I do. Here it is." Kendall pulled the camera from her purse and handed it to the police chief.

"Thank you. What about the pictures?"

Greenlee unlocked her cellphone, pulled up the pictures in question, and handed it over.

After reviewing them, Jesse shook his head. From its positioning, it was obvious that it had been placed to specifically spy on the bed. "I'll need you to send those to me, and don't delete what you have, at least not until we get the all-clear from the D.A."

"Did someone mention me?" Mike Jensen, Pine Valley's District Attorney joined everyone. Before leaving the police station, Caleb called him to let him know what was happening. With his interest piqued, Mike decided it was a good idea to join the discussion and planning.

"Hi, Mike. It's good to see you."

"It's good to see you too, Marissa." The two lawyers had a good relationship both professionally and personally. "Bianca, a pleasure as always."

"Mike, I couldn't agree more."

"Troublemakers." Mike addressed Kendall and Greenlee with a huge grin.

"I'm not sure if we should be offended or not."

"I'm going with not."

"Good. You may be troublemakers, but you're fun troublemakers." Mike really liked the friends, better known as the 'Dynamic Duo' by Marissa.

"I can take being called a fun troublemaker by the D.A." Greenlee smirked.

"Ditto. In this case, we come bearing gifts." Kendall handed over Greenlee's cellphone to Mike for him to see the pictures she had taken.

"Nice work, ladies. I take it that's the camera, Jesse?"

"It is. Let me call Brot and give him the serial number to see if he can track where this was purchased. If he can, we might just be lucky enough to see who bought it." Jesse excused himself to make the call.

"I'm guessing you'll want the pictures as well?"

"Yes, I would."

"Send them to me, Greenlee. I have everyone's contact information and can forward them on."

"You've got it, Marissa." Greenlee did as requested, and Marissa forwarded them on as soon as she received them.

Jesse returned and informed the others that Brot was following up on the camera which had been placed in an evidence bag he had brought with him.

Mike directed his attention solely on Marissa. "I know this is going to be a little awkward for you, and Caleb told me a little about what's going on. I need to hear what happened from you though."

Marissa nodded. She knew she would have to tell both Jesse and Mike what had happened earlier at the mansion. She felt Bianca squeeze her hand and turned to look at her. With a nod from her girlfriend, she took a deep breath and began.

"I went over to the mansion earlier today to try and talk to JR, to talk some sense into him. As you all know, I have custody of AJ, but I've been trying to allow JR to visit with him as long as someone else is around. I don't quite trust JR to be alone with him and not try and run off with him. Today was supposed to be one of those visits, but AJ didn't want to see him."

"Why is that, if you don't mind me asking? Oh, and that's smart about not trusting JR. I wouldn't put it past him to take AJ and run." Mike added. Through his dealings with him, the lawyer trusted JR about as far as he could throw him.

"I don't mind you asking. He's scared of him. AJ told me he doesn't like it when his dad yells, and JR has been doing a lot of yelling. Whoever is there when AJ visits, usually Scott, Colby, or Stuart, try their best to get JR to calm, but it's iffy. So, AJ gets scared which is perfectly understandable, and I'm not going to force him to see JR. He also feels responsible for his dad being lonely and angry when he's not there. It seems that JR has been heaping guilt on him about all of this when no one is around. Something I didn't know about until now. I also didn't know that he grabbed AJ the other day when AJ wanted to leave because JR was yelling. I refuse to put him in that situation. He's just a little boy. He's not responsible for JR's happiness."

"That's perfectly understandable, Rissa. AJ has been through a lot in his short life, and you're right. JR is the parent or is at least supposed to be. He shouldn't be laying a guilt trip on AJ."

"Bianca's right, but I'm not really surprised by Junior's actions. He's entitled and spoiled, and no one has ever held him accountable for his own actions." Caleb stated. "I'm going to make a note about this latest information though. The judge is not going to be happy about this. She's already less than thrilled with Junior considering the attempted bribery."

"Wow. JR is just racking up quite the list for the judge." Greenlee quipped.

"Yes, he is. So, what happened when you got to the mansion, Red?" Kendall asked.

"I told JR that AJ didn't want to see him because he was scared of him especially after he grabbed him. JR then accused me of filling AJ's head with lies about him. Oh, he accused Bianca of that as well."

"Neither of you would ever do anything like that."

"You know that, Kendall, and we know that. But JR? There's no convincing him about that. He had also been drinking."

That piqued Jesse's attention. "Correct me if I'm wrong, but he's not supposed to be doing that when he has AJ, is he?"

"No, he isn't." Caleb made another note regarding that information.

"After I pointed out that he had been drinking and I wouldn't allow him to see AJ in that condition, he sprung the video on me, of Bianca and I making love in my room at the Yacht Club. He pulled out his laptop and showed it to me. He then said if I didn't give up custody of AJ along with my parental rights that he would have the video go viral and make it look like I was responsible for that."

"That's blackmail. You can arrest him for that, right?" Greenlee asked.

"Unfortunately, no, we can't. At least not based on what Marissa has told us. At this point without any other proof, it's a case of he said/she said. His word against hers." Mike clarified where they stood from a legal standpoint.

Marissa nodded. She already knew that before Mike even said anything.

"There has to be something we can do. We're not letting Dipshit get away with this."

Jesse raised an eyebrow. "Dipshit?"

"It's what Greenlee and I call him, affectionately of course." Kendall smirked.

"Of course." Jesse laughed. "I have to admit that it fits."

Caleb chuckled in agreement. "Yes, it does, but we're not without options. Isn't that right, Mike?"

"You would be correct." Mike then looked at Marissa. "What do you say, Marissa? Are you up for a fight?"

Marissa knew exactly what the other two lawyers were thinking and could tell Jesse was on the same page as them. "My Mom and Dad, Roy and Lydia, always told me not to start a fight, but if someone else did, finish it. JR started this, and I'm damn sure going to finish it. What exactly do you have in mind, gentlemen?"

"We need solid proof of his threat." Mike said.

"Solid proof?" It suddenly hit Bianca what Mike meant. "You want her to wear a wire, don't you?"

"That would give us the proof that we need against him. We can use it as leverage."

Bianca turned to look at her girlfriend and could tell from her expression that Marissa was expecting his response and considering it. "Rissa, it could be dangerous if he finds out that you're wearing a wire, especially if he's drinking."

Marissa nodded. "It could, but I don't see any other way around it. We're talking about AJ's safety. I have to do something to stop him and protect my son. Also, you and the girls."

"You don't have to worry about us."

"Bianca, you might as well tell me not to breathe."

"Then I'm going to be with you when you go see him. I have to make sure you're safe because I don't trust JR."

"Bianca."

"You might as well tell me not to breathe."

"Using my own words against me, huh? You are your mother's daughter. Okay, I know I won't be able to stop you, and I have to admit that I will feel a little stronger with you there."

"Speaking of Erica, does she know about any of this?" Caleb asked. For now, no one else at the firm knew what was going on. This meant that Jack didn't know and couldn't say anything to Erica about it.

"No, she doesn't, not yet at least. She's in New York talking with her publisher about her memoirs."

"Binx, are you sure about this?"

"I am, Kendall. Dipshit needs to learn once and for all that you don't mess with a Kane woman and those she loves."

Kendall chuckled. "Yes, he does. I'm going to let Zach know what's going on though so he can arrange some extra security just in case."

"Did JR give you a deadline?" Mike asked.

Marissa nodded. "Tomorrow."

"We need to get started then. Chief, can you hook us up with a wire?"

"Yes, I can. Let me call Brot so he can get one ready for tomorrow. Then, we need to do some planning."

/

The next morning, Marissa dropped AJ off at school and then headed to her office. The group had decided the day before to have her go about her regular routine on the off chance that JR had hired someone to follow her. Marissa knew she was already being followed by someone, but it was someone that Zach had arranged to provide security for her. When Kendall had gotten home, she told him everything that was going on, and it was then that he insisted on arranging protection for both Marissa and Bianca. Kendall let them know what Zach was doing and that he wasn't going to take 'no' for an answer. They agreed they would feel better because at this point, they honestly couldn't say what JR would do.

Marissa went to her office to drop off her things before heading to one of the firm's private conference rooms. Caleb was already there and explaining everything that was going on to Jack. It was time to bring him into the loop. Jack would help calm Erica down when everything was explained to her later that day when she was back home. Both men greeted the redhead when she entered the room.

"Good morning, Marissa."

"Good morning, Caleb. Good morning, Jack." Marissa helped herself to some coffee before joining them at the conference table. Caleb had arranged for coffee for everyone that would be joining them shortly, Bianca, Jesse, Brot, and Mike. "I'm guessing that Caleb has told you everything, Jack."

"He has. I can't believe JR has stooped to this level, but he is Adam's son. The apple doesn't really fall far from the tree. Erica will be fit to be tied when she finds everything out."

"Yeah, we figured she would be less than thrilled when she finds out. We want to wait to tell her though until this is over and she's home."

Jack held up a hand to stop Marissa from further explanation. "I get it, and I agree with the strategy. We're only going to be able to hold her off for so long though. Once she knows what he did, all bets are off. That's not saying she'll get in the way of any legal proceedings, but Erica will have her say and get some sort of revenge."

"As long as she doesn't get in trouble, it's fine by me. JR deserves anything that comes his way as a result of this. My biggest concerns are AJ, Bianca, and the girls. I want them as safe as possible."

"Add yourself to that list, Counselor, and we're in complete agreement." Bianca said as she entered the room. She gave Marissa a quick kiss, helped herself to some coffee and sat next to her girlfriend. "Uncle Jack. Caleb."

"Good morning, Bianca."

"I agree with you completely, Bianca, on adding Marissa to that list. I'm kind of fond of the kid. Don't let anyone else know though." Caleb added with a wink.

"Your secret is safe with me." Bianca turned to Marissa. "Did everything go okay this morning with AJ? Do you know if you were followed?"

"Everything went fine with AJ. According to Zach's guy, I wasn't followed. How are the girls, and were you followed?"

"According to the guy Zach assigned to me, I wasn't followed either. The girls are fine. They are looking forward to seeing you and AJ tonight." The couple had plans for that evening.

"They're not the only ones looking forward to it." Marissa smiled.

Before anything else could be said, Jesse, Brot, and Mike joined them.

"Good morning, everyone. Are we all ready to take care of JR Chandler?" Mike asked.

"I know that I am. I want this over so badly."

"You and me both, Rissa." Bianca squeezed her girlfriend's hand.

"Okay. Let's get you set up, Marissa." Brot set the case he had brought containing the wire she would wear on the conference table. The two worked together so it was concealed under the shirt she was wearing that morning. She had opted to wear a button-up shirt that day which would make putting it on and taking it off easier. Once that was done, they tested it to make sure it was in working order and that she could be heard.

"We're good, Chief."

"Thanks, Brot. Are you ready, Marissa?" Jesse asked.

"As ready as I'll ever be."

"We'll be close by, and if you need us, just say the word and we'll be there. That goes for you too, Bianca."

The couple nodded.

"Let's do this." Marissa held out her hand which Bianca took, and they headed out.

Five minutes later, the others left with Jesse and Brot in one car and Mike, Caleb, and Jack in another. Both cars would be positioned on the road just outside of the estate's gates.

/

"Aren't you going to the board meeting, JR?" Scott asked as he joined his cousin.

"I have something more important to take care of today. I'll deal with them later." JR continued what he was working on.

"Exactly what are you doing?"

"It's the latest game console. It has all the bells and whistles and all the accessories."

"I didn't know you were so into gaming, and that you're blowing off a board meeting that could decide whether or not you'll stay in your current position at Chandler."

"I'm not, but AJ is. This is for him. He'll be here any minute, and he's moving back. Chandler can wait."

"Wait. AJ's moving back? I thought Marissa had full custody of him after your last stunt with the judge."

"I convinced her that it was in everyone's best interest for AJ to stay with me. In fact, she's giving up her rights to him. My son is coming home where he belongs."

Something seemed off to Scott. Marissa loved AJ and wouldn't just give him up. No, something else was going on, and JR was too cocky right now. "That doesn't sound like Marissa. What's going on?"

"Let's just say that I can be very convincing when I need to be." JR smirked as he glanced at his ever-present laptop.

Scott followed his cousin's gaze and went to pick up the laptop. JR was a step quicker and beat him to it.

"I don't think so."

"What did you do, JR?"

A predatory grin spread across JR's face. "Fine. If you're so curious, I'll show you." He pulled up the video and turned his laptop around for the other man to see.

Scott paled. "You recorded them?!"

"I did. I showed it to her yesterday. You should have seen her face. It was priceless. I told her if she didn't turn custody of AJ back over to me along with giving up her parental rights by today that I would have this go viral and make it seem like she was behind it. Marissa didn't realize who she was dealing with. She doesn't have the stomach or spine to fight me. She'll fold, and AJ will be home."

Marissa and Bianca walked into the room before Scott could say anything.

"Ladies. Where's AJ?"

"He's not coming."

"Well then, I guess you know what that means."

"Go ahead, JR. Do it. Release the video, but I will not be blackmailed, and neither will Bianca."

"You cannot be serious."

"I will not be blackmailed."

"Well then, you'll be exposed to the world in so many ways."

"I will deal with it." Marissa glanced at Bianca. "We'll deal with it together."

JR glared at Bianca. "Did you put her up to this?"

"Marissa knows what she wants."

"I don't think so. Switching to girls. I think Marissa's confused. I think she's following your lead."

Scott shook his head. "Or maybe it's Marissa knowing that you can throw your worst at her, and she will survive because they have each other. Love. Family. Something that you don't have."

"Well then, it's going to be a hell of a scandal. Do you and Bianca really want to put AJ, Miranda, and Gabby through that?"

Marissa wasn't having it and was not going to back down. "We won't be putting them through that. You will. And no matter how you try to spin it, if AJ asks where the video came from, I will tell him the truth. Every second of unhappiness will be your fault, and he will know it." With that said, Marissa and Bianca left. The lawyer knew she had enough of a confession from JR to work.

"Well, it looks like Marissa isn't such a wimp after all." Scott said before he left as well, leaving a seething JR behind.

/

"Is that enough for you, Mike?"

"It is, Jesse. Marissa knew it was too. She's good. I wonder if I could get her to work for me."

Caleb and Jack shared a proud smile.

"Well, you're right about her being good, but we're not letting her go without one hell of a fight." Caleb added.

Mike shrugged. "I figured as much. Go get him, Jesse. Oh, and make sure the handcuffs are on nice and tight. We wouldn't want JR getting loose."

Jesse just grinned as he and Brot drove their police cruiser up the road to the mansion, passing Marissa and Bianca as they left. They would meet up at the police station.

/

When Scott saw the police cruiser park in front of the mansion right after Marissa and Bianca left, he went back inside. He needed to know what was going on. "Jesse. Brot. What's going on?"

"Hi, Scott. We're here to see your cousin."

"What do you want, Jesse? A donation? You'll have to go to my office because I'm really not in the mood today." JR spat out.

Jesse merely grinned. "Oh, I'm sure you're not, but I'm not here for a donation. I'm actually here to arrest you."

"Arrest me? What the hell for? Are you insane?"

"Let's see. There's extortion, invasion of privacy, and parental interference for starters. There are a few more charges, but those are the big ones for now."

"What?! You can't arrest me! You don't have any proof, and I haven't done anything wrong!"

"Oh, yes, you have. Turn around. I have some nice bracelets for you to wear."

JR was stunned as he tried to figure out the basis for the charges.

"JR Chandler, you have the right to remain silent. If you give up that right, anything you say may be used against you. You have the right to an attorney. If you can't afford one, one will be provided to you. Do you understand these rights as they have been read to you?" Jesse asked as he led JR away. "Oh, Brot, make sure you grab the laptop."

JR's head snapped around at the last comment while Scott raised both eyebrows. It was then he put everything together. Jesse's arrival just after Marissa's departure was too coincidental. Asking for the laptop had everything make sense. Either Marissa or Bianca had worn a wire, and the entire conversation with JR had been recorded. It looked like his cousin was going to pay for his latest actions, and he couldn't be happier. "Definitely not a wimp."

/

After Marissa had the wire removed, she and Bianca headed to court. Caleb met the couple there, and Marissa filed a request for a restraining order against JR for both her and AJ. When the judge was informed about JR's latest stunt, the orders were granted immediately. It was a pre-emptive move because she knew JR would lose it once he realized she had recorded their earlier meeting. With that accomplished, the couple headed out to check on a house Marissa had found online that was up for rent. She wanted something more permanent for her and AJ so they could move out of the Yacht Club.

As for JR, his lawyer was able to have him released on bail. It had been set high, but it had been granted, no thanks to JR, however. He had several outbursts during the hearing. One in particular had been when the judge had been presented with the results of a field sobriety test that had been administered at the police station when an officer smelled alcohol on JR. The judge suspended his driver's license when it was reported that JR planned to drive after the hearing. It took everything his lawyer had to keep his client under control at that point when JR went off on that decision. The worst had been when he had been served the restraining orders. The only thing that had saved JR at that point was the fact that the orders had been served after the hearing, and they had left the courtroom. Otherwise, his lawyer knew without a doubt that his client would be going back to jail. JR was escorted back to the mansion and told to stay there.

/

Marissa went on with her life while she waited to hear back on whether or not she had been approved for the house she had looked at a few days prior. JR had again been radio-silent and kept his distance from his ex-wife and AJ. Marissa couldn't help but think that this wouldn't last long. It just wasn't in JR's nature to simply accept what the judge had said and done at his hearing. She also knew he wouldn't sit by silently and just give up regarding AJ. Marissa was right. It lasted all of one week.

/

Bianca and Marissa were sitting at what had become their table at Krystal's when the redhead's cellphone rang. She glanced at the caller id and took a deep breath before answering the call. It was one she had patiently been waiting for.

"Hello, Mrs. Walker." Marissa chuckled at the response she received on the other end. "Yes, you did. Hello, Carol. How are you?"

Bianca bit her lip as she observed her girlfriend and listened to her end of the conversation. Carol Walker owned the home that Marissa was hoping to rent. The house was lovely and would be a perfect starter home for Marissa and AJ. The meeting with the older woman had gone pretty well so she was hopeful.

"I'm glad to hear that. I'm doing well, and so are AJ and Bianca." Marissa squeezed Bianca's hand for support, whether it be good news or bad news. "Thank you. I appreciate that. Really?! That's just the best news. I can't tell you how happy I am to hear that! When can we move in?"

Bianca beamed hearing the news that Marissa had gotten the house. Her girlfriend would be able to make a real home for her and AJ.

"That is perfect! It gives me time to arrange for a mover and do a little shopping. Thank you so much! I'll see you when I pick up the keys!" Marissa disconnected the call and smiled happily at her girlfriend. "I got the house!"

"Congratulations! I can't tell you how happy I am for you!" Bianca leaned over and rewarded the redhead with a loving kiss. "So when can you move in?"

"Next week! That gives me some time to arrange for a mover and do a little shopping. A lot of the house is furnished already, but AJ and I both need beds. Plus, I'd like to look for some dishes and cookware. Oh wow. I need to make a list. Would you help me tackle some of this?"

"Of course! You don't even have to ask. I'm more than happy to help. When do you want to get started?"

"No time like the present!" The couple had the afternoon off and had met at Krystal's for a quick lunch.

"Sounds perfect!"

"Great! I'm going to run to restroom, and then, we can head out."

"That's a good idea." Bianca's cellphone rang. "I better take this. It's Kendall. You go, and then, I'll go."

Marissa nodded and headed to the restroom.

"Hi, Kendall. What's up?"

"Hey, Binx. I was just checking in to see if Marissa had heard anything about the house yet."

"As a matter of fact, she just heard back, and she got it!"

"That is great news! You'll have to tell her I said congratulations! We'll have to have a housewarming party for her."

"Yes, we will. We are going to do a little shopping today. She and AJ need beds. Plus, she wants to get a few other essentials. Oh, she'll want to get a TV too. AJ will want to hook up his gaming system."

Kendall laughed. "It sounds like you're busy this afternoon so I'll let you go. Tell her I said congratulations, and I'll talk to you later."

"Talk to you later, Kendall." Bianca disconnected the call and glanced up. JR was glaring at her, and it was obvious that he had heard part of her conversation. She glanced over her shoulder and saw that Marissa hadn't returned yet.

"What are you doing here, JR?"

"The last time I checked, this was a public place. I'm allowed to be here."

"Not when Marissa's here, you're not. I also don't think Krystal will be too happy with you being here and will have something to say about it."

"Fine. I guess I'll leave." He walked over to the bar and grabbed a bottle of bourbon. "Tell Krystal to put it on my tab." JR noticed that Bianca was distracted as he walked back over to the table so he grabbed her car keys which were right by her open purse. He didn't feel like calling for a car service, and now, he didn't have to. "Tell my wife to enjoy the new house while she can. She and my son won't be there long." JR sneered.

"She's your ex-wife, JR, and she has full custody of AJ."

"Not for long."

"The judge disagrees with you."

"Whatever. Judges have been known to be persuaded to change their minds." JR stormed out.

"Was that JR?" Marissa asked.

"Unfortunately, yes."

"Are you alright? What did he say?" Marissa could tell Bianca was upset.

Bianca sighed. "The same things he always does."

"Ah, he called me his wife."

"Yes. He just can't seem to help himself or just doesn't want to. He grabbed a bottle from the bar before he left."

"Well, he doesn't have a license or car so he shouldn't be driving anywhere. Let's not think about him anymore."

"You're right. We won't. He doesn't get to take away from your good news! Oh, Kendall called and said congratulations!"

"I'll have to thank her. Do you want to use the restroom before we head out?"

"Yes, I do. I promise I'll be quick."

"No worries."

Bianca was back a few minutes later and grabbed her purse. She didn't realize her keys were missing at that moment because Marissa had said that she would drive.

/

A few hours later, Marissa pulled into the small lot Bianca had parked in earlier near Krystal's. It had been a successful afternoon of shopping for the couple, and they were pleased with the purchases the redhead had made.

"Where's your car, B?"

Bianca glanced over to the spot where she had left it earlier. "It's right over …" Her car was missing. "It's not there. It's gone." Bianca reached into her purse to retrieve her keys and found them missing as well. "My keys are gone too. I don't get it. I drove here and parked where I normally do. I know I had my keys because I remember hitting the fob to lock it."

"Okay. Let's think about this for a minute. We know you drove here, and you had your keys with you when you went into Krystal's."

"Right."

"Did you leave your purse unattended for any period of time?" Marissa asked.

Bianca paused to think. "Oh my god. It was only for a minute. Would he really have stolen it?"

"Who?" Marissa had a bad feeling she knew who Bianca was talking about.

"JR. He was near my purse after he grabbed the bottle from the bar. I turned my head to see if you were around. I hate to say it, Rissa, but it's the only thing that makes any sense."

"I was afraid you were going to say that. We need to report it stolen." Marissa pulled into a parking space while Bianca pulled out her cellphone to call the police and then her insurance company.

While Bianca was doing that, Marissa decided to call Caleb. If it turned out that JR had stolen Bianca's car, Caleb needed to know for her custody case. The reason for that being that if he was involved it would help with her custody case. She didn't like thinking that way, but the lawyer in her recognized this fact.

"Thanks, Jesse. I'll be waiting for you here."

"Jesse's coming?"

Bianca nodded. "Yes. He agrees with us in our thinking JR could be involved. He's also going to call Mike and let him know what's going on."

"Well, Mike's going to be getting a call from Caleb as well. I let him know what happened. He thinks JR could be involved too. Go ahead and call your insurance agent. If the police do find your car, they'll need to collect evidence which means no car for who knows how long. I need to check with Krystal on something Caleb mentioned."

"What's that?"

"A few months ago, Krystal had some security cameras installed."

"That's when some of the businesses were being vandalized, right?"

"Right. If we're lucky, one of those cameras was pointed at the parking lot and caught who stole your car. That footage can be turned over to Jesse."

"That would be great. Okay, go check with her, and I'll call my agent. Hopefully, she'll be able to arrange a rental car for me today."

"If she can't get you anything today, I will happily be your chauffer."

"Thank you!" The couple shared a quick kiss before separating for their assigned tasks.

/

"Bianca, I'm sorry to keep you waiting."

"Hi, Jesse. Don't worry about it. I kept myself busy by dealing with my insurance agent. She's working on getting me a rental car. Even if it is found in one piece, I figure I won't be getting it back right away. Hi, Mike. I have to say I'm surprised to see the District Attorney."

"Hi, Bianca. When Jesse called me, we agreed there were extenuating circumstances which could use my direct involvement. Plus, Caleb called me which reinforced that. And you're right about the car not being turned over right away. I'm guessing Marissa told you that."

"She did!"

"Where is she?"

"Where's who? Hi, Jesse. Hi, Mike."

"Speak of the devil! Hi, Marissa." Mike grinned in greeting.

"Hi, Marissa. Thanks for talking to Bianca about possible evidence. It saves me some time." Jess said.

"No problem. I also have something else for you that might be very helpful. Krystal had some security cameras installed a few months ago."

"Did they capture anything?" Bianca asked.

"I'm not sure yet. I didn't look at the footage. I wanted to wait until Jesse got here to watch anything. I didn't want to be accused of possibly tampering with evidence."

"Smart. Very smart. I'm guessing you have something set up."

"I do. We can watch everything back in Krystal's office."

Jesse nodded. "Lead the way."

/

Once everyone was settled around the computer monitor in Krystal's office, the video from the parking lot was queued up.

"Thanks, Krystal."

"You're welcome. Do you mind if I stick around?"

"I don't have a problem with it." Jesse turned to Mike. "Do you?"

"No, it's fine. This took place on your property after all. Go ahead and hit 'play', Jesse."

The police chief did as requested and forwarded to the time frame in question.

"This is really good quality on the video. There's JR, and he's walking towards that car. I'm guessing that is your car, Bianca."

"It is."

"JR knows what kind of car she has." Marissa added.

Mike nodded. "If he didn't, the key fob just gave it away."

They watched as JR held up the hand not holding a bottle, and a second later, the headlights on the car lit up. He then got inside, closed the door and drove off.

"I have to be clear about this, Bianca. You did not give JR Chandler permission to use your car?" Jesse asked.

Bianca shook her head. "No, I didn't."

"You didn't give him your keys?"

"No, I didn't."

"You saw him take a bottle of alcohol from behind the bar without permission?"

"I did."

"Krystal, do you know if you're missing anything?"

"Oh, I most certainly do. When Bianca told me what JR did, I did a quick inventory. I'm missing a bottle of bourbon, Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve to be exact. It's a 23-year-old bourbon worth around $4,800."

Mike whistled. "Damn! It's worth that much?"

"It is. That particular one is a rare bourbon, and I have a few bottles around for special occasions. Since I don't have that many bottles, it's easy to tell when one is missing."

"I'm guessing it's something folks order on special occasions too and not every day."

"You would be correct, Jesse."

Mike pulled out his cellphone and did a quick search. "Okay, I just confirmed the price, not that I didn't believe you, Krystal, but I needed to confirm it for myself."

"I understand."

"Jesse, given the price of the bourbon and the video which shows JR stealing Ms. Montgomery's car, we have at the very least two felonies, one for grand theft auto and one for felony theft. That is more than enough to arrest JR Chandler. Krystal, we'll need a copy of this recording."

"I'm on it." With a smile on his face, Jesse pulled out his cellphone and placed a call to Brot to give him the order to arrest JR. "Okay, we're going to be looking for JR and your car, Bianca. Obviously, we don't know how long that will take."

"I understand. Unfortunately, I won't have a rental until tomorrow."

"I have no problem being your chauffer for as long as you need me." Marissa grinned.

"Thank you! Do you need anything else from me?"

Jesse shook his head. "I have your statement, Krystal's statement, and the recording from the lot. I think we're good. Mike?"

"I agree. You're good to go. We'll let you know when we have something."

"Thanks. We should go get the kids."

"Gabby's car seat?"

"I have an extra one at Wildwind."

"Alright, let's go." With that, the couple headed out.

/

"Let me get this straight. JR stole a really expensive bottle of bourbon from Krystal and then he stole your car, and that last part was on video?" Kendall asked. Bianca, Marissa, and the kids had gone over to Kendall and Zach's for dinner. It was a last-minute invitation brought about when Kendall called her sister for an update and could tell from the sound of Bianca's voice that it had been a long day for her. After a quick check with her husband, Kendall extended the invitation to relieve her sister of the task of fixing dinner. And since Bianca and the girls were with Marissa and AJ when Kendall called, they were included as well. While the kids were playing, the adults talked.

"In a nutshell, that's what happened." Bianca confirmed.

Zach nodded. "I'm impressed that the police chief and the district attorney are handling this personally. It's good that they are. Otherwise, I would be getting involved more."

"I know, and thank you again for arranging the security. I feel better knowing that someone is watching Rissa."

"And I feel better knowing that someone is watching Bianca. He stole your car after all, B."

"And he's threatened you, Rissa."

"This is why Zach arranged security for both of you!"

"It will be in place for as long as it's needed. I have to keep my second favorite couple safe after all. Second only to Kendall and myself." Zach added with a smile.

Marissa grinned. "Naturally. I would like your help with picking out a security system for my new place if you're up for it, Zach."

"I would be more than happy to help."

"Thank you."

The conversation was interrupted by a frantic knock on the front door.

"I wonder who that is." Kendall said as she headed to see who was at the front door. She found her best friend and partner in crime looking distraught. "Greenlee? What's wrong?"

"Kendall, I'm sorry, but I just saw something and needed to tell you right away." Greenlee rushed in and then came to an abrupt stop. Relief washed over her. "Bianca! Thank god you're here!"

Bianca was confused by Greenlee's outburst. "Thanks?"

"Sit down and take a breath. Then, start over."

Greenlee nodded at her friend's suggestion and did as told. "Okay. I was driving home and saw an accident. A car was wrapped around a telephone pole. I stopped when I recognized the car and didn't see anyone inside. It was your car, Bianca."

"My car? JR must have wrecked it."

Marissa nodded. "He must have. Were the police there?"

"Yes, they were. I didn't recognize the officers that were there, and they wouldn't give me any information. My first thought was to tell Kendall. What do you mean that JR must have wrecked it? Why was he driving Bianca's car?"

Bianca glanced around to make sure the kids were still out of the room. "He stole it."

"What?!"

"He took my keys earlier when we were at Krystal's along with a bottle of high-end bourbon."

"Before you ask, we reported everything to the police as soon as we realized her keys were gone. Krystal installed cameras around the restaurant. One of them covers the parking lot, and it caught JR taking Bianca's car. That footage was turned over to Jesse, and Mike Jensen gave him the go ahead to arrest JR. It sounds like they hadn't found him before the accident. I just hope nobody was hurt, and if anyone was, it's not serious." Marissa added.

"I wonder if I should call Jesse." Bianca could finish her thought, her cellphone rang. "Speaking of, it's Jesse." She answered the call. The others waited while Bianca spoke with the police chief. "I'm just glad no one was seriously injured, Jesse. I can get a new car, but I couldn't stand it if an innocent person was hurt or worse. I'll be there tomorrow morning. I'll see you then, Jesse, and thank you." With that, Bianca disconnected the call.

"So?"

"Greenlee's right. It was my car that she saw. From what witnesses told the police, the car crashed into the telephone pole, and fortunately, no one else was involved. They went to help the driver and reported that he reeked of alcohol. The police got there and had to call the fire department to get the jaws of life to remove JR from the car. He was transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Brot is there keeping an eye on him to make sure he doesn't leave and to place him under arrest."

"Wow. Like you said, I'm glad no one was seriously injured. I just have to figure out what to tell AJ about his dad." Marissa was not looking forward to that conversation. "I should call Caleb and give him an update. I'll be right back." Marissa stepped away from the others to talk to him.

"I'm guessing your car is a total loss. It looked that way to me at least when I drove by." Greenlee said.

"Yeah, Jesse said it looked like it was going to be totaled. The police were taking it to the impound lot to retrieve whatever evidence they can. I need to update my insurance agent about that."

"It sounds like JR is in a world of trouble. We'll have to wait and see if he can weasel his way out of all of this." Kendall shook her head.

"We should probably talk to Scott and let him know what's going on." Marissa said when she rejoined the others. "Let me give him a call."

"That's a good idea. I don't want him and especially Stuart blindsided." Bianca said.

The others nodded in agreement. Stuart was the kindest and gentlest soul there was, and they wanted to spare him as much pain as possible.

While Marissa called Scott, Bianca called her insurance agent to let her know the latest on her car.

"Okay, I'm going to meet Scott tomorrow and give him more details."

"I'm going to meet my insurance agent at the police station. I'll at least be able to get a rental car until everything's all sorted out and can get a new one." Bianca turned to her girlfriend. "Do you want to check on the kids?"

"That's a good idea. We'll be back."

Now that she was assured that Bianca and Marissa were safe, Greenlee was able to calm down.

"So, let me get this straight, JR stole a really expensive bottle of bourbon from Krystal's before he stole Bianca's car. He then proceeded to get smashed while he was driving before he smashed her car into that telephone pole."

"Sounds about right." Kendall said.

"Wow. Did I miss anything else?"

Zach smiled. "Actually, you did. Marissa got the house."

"She did?! That is awesome! We need to plan a housewarming party! We'll do it after things calm down though." Greenlee grinned.

"Yes, on both accounts. Bianca was helping her with some shopping for it earlier. They had taken Marissa's car. That's why they didn't know Dipshit stole her car until later." Kendall added.

"Dipshit, huh? You're talking about JR." Marissa smirked as she rejoined the others. "You know, it definitely suits him."

"What suits who?" Bianca asked as she took a seat next to Marissa.

"Dipshit."

"Ah, Kendall's new nickname for JR."

"You're right. It does suit him. We just have to watch using it around the kids, particularly AJ."

"That goes without saying. I hate to bring up this next subject, but I have to. Once JR's arrest becomes public knowledge, and you know it will, the press is going to have a field day which means …"

Bianca sighed, knowing where her sister was going. "Mom. I know. I'd rather she hear it from me than from a reporter. I'll call her first thing tomorrow."

"I'm here if you need any backup, Binx."

"Thanks, I appreciate it."

Marissa cringed. "This is going to put me on her bad list, isn't it? I mean, I know my standing is shaking because of Krystal and David, but this?"

Bianca took her hand. "Hey, you're not on her bad list. Mom knows you and likes you. You have more than proven yourself, and you had nothing to do with what JR did. Besides, there's the whole him trying to blackmail you thing. You're good. Got it?"

"Got it. Thank you."

"You are more than welcome." Bianca gave her girlfriend a quick peck. "I have an idea. Why don't you and AJ stay with me and the girls tonight? I know Evelyn did a sweep of your room, but I would feel better if we had someone else check it as well. It's late so we won't be able to have someone do it tonight."

"I agree about getting someone else to check it out." Marissa glanced at Zach. "I was hoping you might be able to help with that."

"Consider it done. I'll have someone do a sweep tomorrow morning."

"Thank you." Marissa turned back to Bianca. "Are you sure about us staying over?"

"I'm positive."

"Okay. We would love to then. Thank you. If we're going to stay over, we'll need to stop back at our room and get a few things."

"We should get going then. I'll get the kids."

Once everyone was together, Marissa turned to Zach. "I'll call you tomorrow and get you my room key."

Zach nodded. "Sounds good. We'll also talk about security for your new place."

Kendall hugged her sister. "Have a good night. Let me know if you need anything. That goes for both of you."

"We will. Thanks for everything."

/

The next week flew by for Bianca and Marissa. Bianca met with her insurance agent who, to no surprise, totaled her car. She gave her formal statement to the police as well and agreed to press charges against JR. With that done, Bianca took the girls with her to go car shopping which they loved. Bianca also picked up a new car seat for Gabby since the other was damaged in the accident, and there was no way Bianca would ever take a chance with the safety of either of her daughters. Bianca called her mother who had returned home recently but was getting ready to head back out again to New York to cohost on 'The View'. Erica was furious about what JR had done but relieved that no one was hurt, particularly Bianca and Marissa. She assured her daughter that she did not fault Marissa for what JR had done and offered any help or support that she might need. When Bianca relayed what Erica had said, Marissa was rendered speechless, briefly, and extremely grateful for the offer.

As for Marissa, she arranged for movers to pick up her and AJ's belongings as well as scheduled for their new furniture to be delivered. She and AJ packed up most of their things and were scheduled to move into their new place that Saturday. That week also had Marissa meet with Scott and explain what JR had done. He wasn't surprised by his cousin's actions unfortunately and thanked her for the heads up so he could break the news to Stuart before the story made the local news.

Marissa had broken the news to AJ as gently as she could. The boy had taken it hard and was glad his dad wasn't seriously injured, but he didn't want to talk to him and refused to do so when JR called practically begging to talk to the boy. AJ was pretty much done with JR at the moment and was relieved that Marissa didn't make him talk to his dad when he called. Marissa refused to make AJ do something he clearly didn't want to do and something that she believed would be detrimental to her son. After talking everything over with AJ, she had Caleb petition the court for a permanent restraining order for both her and her son, and it was granted. This effectively put a stop to the calls and any other attempts at communicating with AJ. Marissa was also looking into finding a professional that AJ could talk with to help him process everything going on at the moment.

Now JR was an entirely different story. He was placed under arrest and still in the hospital, handcuffed to his hospital bed, recovering from the injuries he had suffered from the crash. He had been refused bail by the judge who had previously granted him bail on his earlier charges. The judge was now furious at JR's arrogance and disregard of the conditions of his earlier bail so it had been refused this time. The court also ordered that JR complete rehab at a secure facility once he was released from the hospital. Once that had been completed, he would go to jail while awaiting trial. That was the last thing he wanted so JR reached out to the Chandler family for help in fighting the charges and to get bail but was soundly refused. Stuart was heartbroken at making this decision but knew in his heart that it was the right thing to do. He wouldn't be able to live with himself if he helped his nephew only for him to repeat his actions and possibly hurt someone else the next time. Maybe Adam would've helped JR had he still been alive, but Stuart couldn't let that possibly sway his decision. Scott agreed with his father and stood by his decision. All of that along with the fact that the D.A. was handling the case against JR personally helped put Marissa's mind at ease.

/

Moving day arrived and a number of people helped Marissa and AJ move to their new home. Scott handled moving AJ's belongings from the Chandler mansion which Marissa was extremely grateful for. She knew JR wouldn't be there but just being on the property had her anxious and stirred up unpleasant memories. With that piece taken care of, that left what belongings they had at the Yacht Club which were loaded into her car, items in a storage unit, and the new furniture that would be delivered that day. Kendall and Greenlee volunteered to handle overseeing the moving of items from the storage unit. This allowed Marissa to focus on the house. Bianca and the girls helped with that part as well. While all of that was taking place, Zach oversaw the installation of the new security system.

By that afternoon, everyone was at the new house and taking a well-deserved lunch break which consisted of pizza and sandwiches.

"If I could please have everyone's attention." Marissa asked the group as she stood behind AJ, resting her hands on his shoulders. When the room quieted, she continued. "On behalf of AJ and myself, we want to thank everyone for all of your hard work today. Thanks to you, we are all moved in and ready to spend our first night in our new home. Without your help, who knows when that would have happened. In a few weeks, we will have a cookout to properly thank everyone so be on the lookout for an invite via text. For now, eat and drink up, and thank you again!"

/

A few hours later, everyone had cleared out with the exception of Bianca, Miranda and Gabby. The kids were watching a movie while the couple cuddled together on the couch.

"I have a question for you, B."

"Ask away."

"Would you and the girls like to stay over tonight? It's getting late, and I know they're tired."

"And you have the twin beds in the spare bedroom. You were sneaky when you slipped off and bought them."

"I didn't overstep, did I? I just wanted them to be comfortable if they do stay over."

"You didn't overstep. It's very thoughtful of you. I just have one question. Where will I sleep?" Bianca teased.

Marissa raised an eyebrow. "Well, I do have this nice, new king-sized bed. I'm more than willing to share, and they'll be plenty of room for both of us."

Bianca pretended to give it some thought, but it really was a no-brainer. "Hmmm. I guess that would be okay." She laughed and leaned in to give Marissa a loving kiss. "Oh, what about pajamas for us and toothbrushes?"

"We can find something for you all to sleep in. As for toothbrushes, I have extras from dentist visits. They give them to us every time, and I never throw them away."

"Same. Okay. Hey girls, what do you think about having a sleepover here tonight?"

Miranda and Gabby both smiled brightly and nodded.

"That's a good idea, Rissa!" Miranda spoke for both her and her sister.

Marissa looked at AJ. "Sound good to you, Buddy?"

"Yep!"

"Rissa?"

"Yes, Gabby?"

"Will you read us a story later?"

"I will be more than happy to."

"Thanks!'

"It's unanimous, Counselor!"

"I'm very happy to hear it. I like having the three of you around and so does AJ." Marissa said as she leaned into Bianca.

"And we like being around." Bianca smiled as Marissa settled in next to her.

Both women were happy and content for the first time in a long time and were looking forward to a bright future.

/

A/N: Yes, a bottle of Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve Bourbon can in fact be worth around $4,800. I've never had it since it's out of my price range but have heard it's really good.