A/N: Thank you to @dalla27 for the idea mentioned at Bliss' media press conference. And, also for your thought-provoking and heartfelt comments.

Bliss' POV

"Bliss and Shane, ignore anything Mikayla says. People in the industry are really getting tired of her act. Grayson is cool," Marco told us as we tried to walk on by them.

According to Shane, Grayson is not cool. Shane tightened his grip on my hand.

As we walked to the elevator, Marco said hi to Grayson.

"Hey man, what are you doing in London? These are my friends, Shane and Bliss."

"It's nice to meet you both again. I had a photoshoot with Mikayla. Nobody wanted to do it with her, so I did."

Grayson made a hand gesture that said he was paid well.

The three of us snickered. Then, Ms. High and Mighty got all loud and in my face.

"There is nothing funny!!! Especially from you! I don't appreciate you embarrassing me the other day!"

"First, get out of my face! Second, I don't appreciate you interrupting my engagement party! Then, come to find out, Shane's aunt invited you to get you both to start dating!! So, get your bougie behind out of my face!! No one will bully me!"

"Not in a million years would I even consider dating you. Find somebody else's money to leech. I am very happy with Bliss. As a matter of fact, we just finished our engagement photo shoot and headshots for Bliss, who has the potential to become a model."

"Her becoming a model?! That is hilarious!"

I was seriously about to smack that grin off her face.

"You are supposed to be a grown woman. But, instead, you are standing here acting like a child. Take two steps out of my face before I give you something to pout about. Darn right, I will become a model because I have high-profile friends. What do you have, Mikayla? I was initially skeptical when Marco's agent spoke to me about modeling. But, you know what?! Be prepared to be given a run for your money, whatever your name is."

I stood there with my arms crossed. I knew that would get Mikayla riled up. Shane patted me on my back to say, 'That's my girl.' Then, I smirked.

"How in the world did you, of all people, get to be represented by Ashton Black?! He is the best in the business! He would not come anywhere near me! You are a nobody, and I have been modeling for years!"

Shane's POV

I have had enough of this chick!

"Bliss and Marco, I'll meet you by the elevator."

She was about to grab Bliss's arm as she walked past me with Marco. This chick lost her mind if she thought I would let her touch Bliss.

"I am going to make myself crystal clear! If you EVER lay a hand on Bliss, prepare to go bankrupt. You DO NOT know who you are messing with! I have read about Ashton Black, and the clients he represents have class! Something you are definitely lacking! Oh, and while you came out of your studio, I pressed record on my phone. On top of that, my lawyers are Jacob Dolloway and Hermione Forrest. DO NOT TEST ME!! Unlike you, Bliss knows how to treat people with respect! She will be loved and adored as a model by many!! Plus, she has Marco to help her!"

That Grayson character just had to open his mouth.

"I don't mind helping out myself. We could even do a few photoshoots together."

Over my dead body, will he be doing any swimsuit or underwear photoshoots with Bliss! Or any other photoshoots at all with her!

He continued talking and said, "Mikayla, consider us done with photoshoots. I only did this one because I was paid very well for it. I have never in my life worked with someone so self-centered. In fact, please lose my phone number." Then, he walked off towards the elevator, going down.

Hmm, maybe I was wrong about him. But still, I am keeping my eye on him.

"Keep that nasty attitude of yours up, whatever your name is, and you will be done as a model with no one supporting you!" She started whining and pouting again. Ugh, truly pathetic.

"Remember what I said - Dolloway and Forrest." Then, I joined Bliss and Marco. She screamed, "It's Mikayla Shay!!"

I screamed back, "I don't care!!" Then the elevator doors closed.

******

Narrator's POV

Marco took Bliss and Shane on a tour of the complex, which lasted about an hour. Then, they went back to the photographer. He already sent a set of headshots to Ashton Black.

After the photoshoot and tour, they went back to Nana's house.

Shane taught Bliss how to ride a horse, and she loved it.

Marco and Noeli had to leave because she will graduate from Medical School, and her residency starts in Florida. So, Shane drove them to the airport.

Everybody was on Layla watch because Logan was overdue. He was due to arrive on June 4th. She showed no signs of going into labor.

Bliss received the documents she needed to sign for her patent. Shane helped her go over the documents to make sure everything was accurate. Then, Bliss signed them and sent them back to Jayson. They privately celebrated that Bliss was soon to be a business owner.

The day after Layla and Kam flew home, Layla went into labor. Bliss and Shane flew to New York to support Layla. And, on 6/10/19, Logan Christian Meyers was born.

Just as they feared, Bliss was served with a subpoena for the July 15th trial while in New York. Shane and Bliss met with Jacob and Hermione to make sure Bliss would be safe while appearing in court. Then, they flew back to London.

On their way back to Europe, Shane flew Bliss for a romantic getaway to Paris for a week. He wanted her to relax before the trial on July 15th.

******

Their time in London is now up. Shane and Bliss said goodbye to the family that liked her. Then, they headed to the airport, making their way back to New York on Shane's plane.

*******

Friday, July 5th, 2019

Bliss' POV

"Thank you, Shane, for the trip to London and Paris. I will always remember and cherish it."

"You're welcome, Darling. It was definitely a memorable trip."

"And thank you, Nana and Grampa, for flying back to New York for the next two weeks with these trials."

"You're welcome, honey. Of course, we are going to be there for you. You became our grandchild the moment Shane told me about you last May. We girls have to stick together. And I hear congratulations are in order. You have your first photo shoot in September."

"Thank you. I'm really nervous. But my friend, Marco, is doing the shoot with me. Our agent, Mr. Ashton Black, hired someone to help show me the ropes."

"Honey, you have not only the figure but also a beautiful, friendly personality. Modeling is perfect for you. Don't let that heifer tell you otherwise."

"Thank you, Nana." I couldn't help but chuckle. I love Nana Margie.

******

After our conversation, everyone fell asleep but me. Even Precious and Raven fell asleep. Just the thought of seeing Alexander in my dreams and inside the court scares me to death. But I need to do this. It is not just for me. It is for every woman in the world. Men like Alexander need to be stopped.

I woke Shane up and dragged him to the couch on the plane.

"Can we cuddle? Every time I try to close my eyes, I see Alexander's hands on my throat."

Shane laid on the couch first, then I laid in front, facing him. He started gently rubbing my back in a circular motion.

"Sweetheart, for July 8th, you don't have to see Alexander. Per Hermione, the judge has permitted you to be in a conference room with closed-circuit television. Alexander was already found guilty. This trial will determine how much he has to pay you as compensation. It will just be a compensation hearing."

"For the trial on the 15th, two guards will be sitting on each side of Alexander, along with his lawyers. There will also be an armed guard ready to shoot him. Alexander WILL not touch you. From what I hear, since May, hardly any lawyer has wanted to represent him. They found someone desperate to represent him. The lawyer even tried to get the case moved to Upstate New York for Alexander to get a fair trial, but the judge was not having it."

I just laid there and cried in Shane's shirt. "Why should he get a fair trial?! It is his fault in the first place! Is it fair that I got choked?! I can't stand him, Shane! I'm sorry for yelling."

Shane's POV

"It absolutely is not fair. I hope the judge renders Alexander penniless. I will do all I can to wipe Alexander from your thoughts. Let's focus on our wedding, your modeling, and business. Right now, let's focus on getting you some rest."

"zzzZZZ"

And, just like that, Bliss fell asleep and soft snored. The following two weeks are going to be rough for her. So, it is important that I am there for her. Mum and Nana will be with Bliss in the conference room. My father, grandfather, Kalani, Cris, Marco, Austin, and Julian will be in the courtroom making sure Alexander pays for what he did. Sean and Mason will be in the conference room with the ladies.

After starting to yawn, I closed my eyes also to get some rest.

******

"Shane and Bliss, the plane is about to land. You both need to wake up and get to your seats."

"Okay, Nana."

Like Jessica and Andrea said, Bliss needs an alarm clock to wake up. I couldn't use my phone because it was in my seat. So, I tickled her.

Bliss started giggling and swatting my hands away. "Stop it, Shane."

"Darling, we must get up and return to our seats. Jimmy is about to land the plane. How about I practice carrying you in the house and to my room?"

"So, I guess I am staying at your house, right? I need clothes because I don't have any at your house. And I am sure you don't want your grandparents to see me half-naked," Bliss said while we got off the couch and returned to the seats.

"Absolutely not! We can stop by your house first, then go to mine. And we need Precious and Raven's food and water bowls."

"It's been a while since we cooked together. Let's cook for Nana and Grampa."

"Sure. I would love to."

*******

Narrator's POV

Once they arrived back in New York, Shane drove straight to Bliss' house so she could pick up some clothes, plus water bowls and food for the cats. Then, they made their way to Shane's house.

Shane showed Nana and Grampa to their room. As promised, he carried Bliss to his room. She giggled the whole time.

They had a great time with Shane's grandparents. Bliss was appreciative of the support as the first court date arrived.

**********

Shane's POV

Everyone who is going today is meeting at my house. Bliss was nervous, but we reassured her that Alexander would not see her at all today. But, as for me, I hope that I don't choke the life out of him when I see him. I hope the judge takes everything he built up away from him.

When a woman says no, it means no! Jacob and Hermione said the judge presiding over the hearing is the last one Alexander wants to see. Bliss is going to be a very wealthy woman after today.

"Good morning, Darling. Love the outfit."

"Thanks, Lover Boy. I can't wait until this is over so I can have my nerves back."

I grabbed her hands and pulled Bliss into a big hug. "Just think, this day will also be for every woman Alexander has ever hurt or harassed. He will NEVER hurt anyone again. Hold your head up high, Darling." I kissed Bliss on her forehead. "Let's go downstairs and get something to eat. Later, we are all going out to celebrate."

We made our way downstairs to a packed living room.

"Shane and Bliss, there is breakfast in the kitchen. Help yourselves. Sweetheart, don't be nervous. And, Shane, try to be as calm as you can when Alexander enters the courtroom. I don't want to be going to a trial for you. Got it?"

My father knows me well. I can be a hothead sometimes. "Yes, dad."

"Aunt Bliss, don't be scared." Braelyn is a sweet little girl. She came over and hugged Bliss.

Bliss then knelt to Braelyn. "I'll try not to be nervous, Lollipop. And, thank you."

"Shane, Ryan is going to stay home with Layla. They both wanted to come, but she wasn't feeling well. They will definitely be there next week."

"Thank you, Austin."

"Darling, sit in the dining room while I get you something to eat." Then, I went to the kitchen.

"Good morning, mum."

"Good morning, Shane. Where is Bliss?"

"I told her to go to the dining room. I'm fixing her something to eat."

"Okay. I hope that judge bankrupts Alexander for what he not only did to Bliss but to any other woman he has hurt. That includes Carly and Jessica."

"I agree, mum. I agree with you 100%."

***********

After eating breakfast, we all gathered in the living room to prepare to leave. Three limos were waiting to take everyone to the courthouse.

Once everyone was accounted for, we made our way outside to the limos. Of course, the media was staked out in front of my house as we got in the limos. Then, we pulled off towards the city.

************

Bliss' POV

While riding in the limo, I leaned my head on Shane's shoulder. Austin and Cris let Braelyn and Día ride in the limo with us. I am grateful to them for that. Día and Braelyn held my hands the whole ride.

It was about a 60-minute drive. Once we pulled up to the courthouse, we waited to get out. We saw the police van with Alexander go by us.

"Now we can get out of the limo. Ladies, stick as close to Mason and Sean as you can. And thank you, Sean, for coming to help today."

"It's not a problem, Shane. I can help out next week as well."

"Thanks."

Sean and Mason got out first, so they could carry Braelyn and Día inside. Then, Nana, Grampa, Dad, Mom, Julian, Carly, Jessica, and Andrea. One by one, they all got out. Once they were inside, Mason and Sean returned for Shane and me.

While being escorted into the courthouse, reporters tried to shove microphones in my face. Shane scowled at all of them as he shoved the microphones out of my face. Shane said, "We will hold a press conference after the court hearing today. Thank you."

We made it inside safely. Shane then walked with me to where I will watch the proceedings.

"Mum and the ladies will be here with you. Sean and Mason will also be in the conference room if anything happens. Once the hearing is over, we will all meet back here and leave the courthouse."

"Okay." Shane was about to walk away.

"Excuse you, Mr. Landes, but aren't you forgetting something?" He looked confused by what I said. So, I walked over to Shane, jumped in his arms, and reminded him what he forgot to give me.

"Bliss and Shane, save your make-out session for later."

I jumped down and straightened out my dress. "Now you can go, Mr. Landes." Then, I gave him a pat on his butt as he walked away. Shane looked back and smirked. Then, I blew a kiss and went inside the room.

"Thank you all so much for coming with me today. It really means a lot to me."

"You're welcome, sweetie. And we will be here for you next week too."

"Thank you, Nana."

About five minutes later, we saw Shane, dad, Julian, and the others enter the courtroom.

Shane's POV

As we made our way to the front rows, we saw many people we didn't recognize. But, I overheard several people say, "I hope the judge gives that young lady everything that Mahoney jerk has." "Me too. That creep deserves it."

I did see Mr. Ashton Black sitting in the courtroom. So, I walked over to him and said, "Thank you for coming."

"You're welcome. I treat my clients as my family. Bliss is one of the nicest people I have ever met. I'll be here next week too. That Mahoney fellow is sick. I saw with my own eyes several times how he treated his dates. I hope the judge shows no mercy."

"Me too. I'll see you later."

Unfortunately, I saw that Grayson character too. I'm beginning not to like him at all. We then took our seats.

I wanted to make sure Alexander saw my face when he was brought into the courtroom. I hate his guts. His court-appointed lawyers just entered, so he must be coming in shortly. Alexander's prior lawyers dropped him like a hot potato after he choked Bliss.

Sure enough, Alexander was brought into the courtroom. His hands and ankles were cuffed, and he was escorted in by two guards that looked like they had tasers. It is a shame that Alexander did what he did because he really was an excellent businessman. But he put himself in this predicament. Alexander looked my way as he walked over to his chair.

I expressed my displeasure with him through hand gestures. The first thing I did was a gesture to make my hands look like a bomb was about to explode. Then, I crossed my arms and whispered, "You're going to pay."

He tried to lunge at me but was yanked back by the two guards.

"Seriously, Shane?" I heard my father say as I turned to see that he had his arms crossed, along with my grandfather and Kalani. "Stop antagonizing him."

It is not my fault he is in here. The door to the judges' room opened.

The bailiff announced, "All rise. The Court of New York City is now in session, the Honorable Judge Lucas Johnston presiding."

"YES!" Alexander facepalmed when he heard the judge's name. I have read this judge is strict when it comes to compensatory hearings. Alexander could kiss whatever he had goodbye.

Then, the bailiff says, "Your Honor, today's case is regarding the compensation amount Alexander Mahoney needs to pay to Ms. Bliss Sanders."

Judge Johnston - "Mr. Mahoney, what did I tell you the last time about coming into my courtroom in this situation? But, the last time, it was in Massachusetts. I remember telling you, 'If I ever see you again, you can consider yourself done as a businessman.' Young man, you are about to learn a tough lesson."

I had the biggest grin ever after the judge said that. But, again, it is sad that he has hurt someone else in another state. What is wrong with him?! I hope he continues having fun with 'Big Bubba' in prison.

Judge Johnston - "I understand Ms. Sanders is safe in the court conference room. So, who is here to represent her?"

"I am your honor, Shane Landes. I am Bliss's fiancé."

Judge Johnston - "Very well. No. Ms. Sanders clearly told you, Mr. Mahoney, that word - No. On several occasions, she told you no. But, just like in Massachusetts, you didn't listen. This time, you will pay dearly for not listening to that word. All of your assets were frozen. Everything you owned - houses, cars, bank accounts - are no longer yours. Also, Ms. Sanders is now the proud owner of your company. What she chooses to do with it is up to her. You disgust me, Mr. Mahoney."

"I considered several things with the compensation given to Ms. Sanders. You not only didn't listen to her telling you no, but you sexually assaulted her, slandered her name in the media, and almost choked her to death while in court back in May. No woman should go through what you did to her or any other woman you hurt. You will never touch another woman again! I am sending a strong message to you and to any other man or woman who does not listen to this simple word - No. No means no! This court is adjourned."

The bailiff then said, "All rise." Then, everyone stood up while the judge exited the courtroom. As Alexander was escorted out of the courtroom, he yelled, "YOU ARE GOING TO PAY FOR THIS, SHANE!!"

He does not scare me at all. Hermione and Jacob attended the proceedings. "Shane, we have all of Alexander's bank account numbers, keys to his cars, and houses. We also have everything concerning his business. He had bank accounts all over the country. We have access to them all. When Bliss is ready, bring her into the office. We don't know how much money was in the accounts, but from looking at the cars and deeds to his houses, Bliss is fully loaded. Let's go see Bliss."

"Thank you for everything, Jacob and Hermione. Follow me."

Bliss's POV

"Bliss! Bliss! Wake up, sweetie!!" I heard mom yelling. When I opened my eyes, I noticed I was on a couch. "What happened?"

"Sweetie, you passed out after the judge listed what Alexander has to pay you," Nana Margie mentioned.

"Here is a glass of water."

"Thanks, Mason." I gulped the water down. Shane and the guys entered the room as soon as I finished drinking the water. He rushed over to where I was sitting on the couch.

"What happened? Are you okay?"

"All I remember was the judge saying Alexander's houses, cars, and bank accounts were no longer his. Then, the room went black."

"Shane, Bliss passed out. We were finally able to wake her up just before you came in. I carried her over to the couch."

"Thanks, Mason," Shane tells him.

I asked Shane, "What else happened after that?"

"Well, the judge made sure Alexander understood what the word 'No' means. You own everything he had - houses, cars, bank accounts, and you now own his business. You are one wealthy and powerful woman."

"Oh my gosh." I collapsed right in Shane's arms.

Shane's POV

Bliss fainted again.

"Wake up, Darling!" I gently shook Bliss. After about five minutes, she woke up.

"Did I do it again?"

"Yes, you did. Let's get you out of here."

"Bliss, I told Shane, when you are ready to take possession of Alexander's houses, cars, bank account, and business, just let us know. Whatever you want to do with it, we will help you. As Shane said, you are very wealthy. We'll see you later, Bliss and Shane," Hermione said as she and Jacob walked away.

"Wait! Can you both be with me when I speak to the media? Sorry for the fainting. Before we leave, I want to thank everyone in the room for your love and support. It means a lot to me, especially Nana Margie and Grampa Eddie, for flying from London. I also want to thank Cris, Kami, Marco, Noeli, Isabela, Antonio, and Kalani for flying from Florida with the kids. I love you all so much."

"We all love you too, honey. And we will be here for you next week, too," Isabela says as she hugs Bliss.

Bliss started getting emotional when she said, "Thank you because I will need it. Okay, now I am ready to go."

I grabbed Bliss's hands to lift her off the couch. We then walked out of the conference room to face the media.

Bliss' POV

I had a tight grip on Shane's hand as we walked to the podium set up outside. Jacob spoke first.

"Ladies and gentlemen of the media, before Ms. Sanders speaks, we ask you to be respectful of what she says. And, if she wishes to answer your questions afterward, do not ask her anything personal." Jacob turned around and said, "You got this, Bliss."

I pulled Shane and Julian with me to the podium.

"My answer to Mr. Mahoney was always no. I can't understand why people choose to ignore that simple word - No. That goes for anyone - whether a man, woman, or child says it. No means no - plain and simple. What the judge awarded me today, I never wanted it. I only wanted Mr. Mahoney to respect that simple word - No. He didn't, and look at what it is costing him. I didn't ask to be assaulted, slandered, or choked. Mr. Mahoney did that on his own. Then, I heard his lawyers had the nerve to ask for his trials to be moved out of New York so he could get a fair trial! Are you kidding me?! That is a slap in my face!! Again, was it fair that I was sexually assaulted, slandered, and choked?!!! No! You all can think what you want of me. And, you know what? I don't care. The only thing that matters to me is the support from my family and friends who are standing behind me. And, my brother and husband-to-be, both standing next to me."

"Before anyone asks me what I will do with the money I was awarded, I will tell you one thing I plan on doing. After that, it is really nobody's business what I do with it. I want to create safe havens or shelters throughout New York for women and children who have been sexually assaulted, abused, or mistreated. Whenever I see a report on the news about a woman or child violated, it hurts my heart. Women and children are often ignored when they come forward about an assault, which is disturbing. Women's concerns and pleas need to be heard!! I will start with New York first because it is where I was born and raised. And, also, in Barbados, where my mom was born and raised."

"Men and women like Mr. Mahoney need to be stopped!! If we all come together, we can defeat these monsters. But, if I have to do it alone, I will do it - count on that. Thank you all for your time."

I didn't feel like answering any of the media's questions. So, I linked my arms with Shane and Julian. "Can we go?"

"We sure can," Shane answered. We then walked down the stairs to the limos and whatever restaurant Shane reserved for everyone.

Thank goodness this day is over. But there is still one more hurdle to go. And, the next time, I will be facing Alexander.

**************

Thank you for reading chapter 31.

Bliss' court outfit is courtesy of PNG Tree - ©pngtree.com / Vishal

Thank you all for the votes and comments. 😘