tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22339927747888311332024-03-12T15:40:31.296-07:00CSI NJUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2233992774788831133.post-3032104314235620862008-11-05T20:13:00.000-08:002008-11-05T20:14:59.624-08:00Epilogue<strong>Epilogue – 2 Years Later<br /></strong><br /><br />The reporter was excited. This was the biggest interview of his career. Bon Jovi had just released a new album and his editor had picked him to talk to them. He was also a fan and he hoped he didn’t make a fool of himself. Facing all five of them he took a deep breath.<br /><br />“Your new album is a bit of a departure from your last two. It appears that you’ve returned to your roots, so to speak - very emotional ballads, big arena anthems, incredible guitar solos. Yet the lyrics still tell the stories all your fans love. Happy, positive, hang in there, you can have it too stories. And it has a real rock feel to it. What do you attribute this to?” He asked Jon.<br /><br />David answered. “He’s in looove!”<br /><br />They all laughed. Jon blushed but smiled as he played with his wedding ring. It was still shiny.<br /><br />“Ah, yes, the new wife. Congratulations on the twins by the way. I hope everyone is doing well.” The reporter offered.<br /><br />“Yes, they’re well thanks. The twins are growing like weeds.” Jon beamed with obvious pride. <br /><br />“That makes six now right? Are you done or are you going to have more?”<br /><br />“That’s completely up to my wife.” Jon grinned. “Although, Kristen and Luke were a bit of a surprise, so she may want to wait a bit before making that decision.”<br /><br />“I may sound stupid, but I have to ask...what does your wife have to do with the sound of this album?” The reporter was curious.<br /><br />Jon smiled. “She convinced me that we could write a song that told a story but put a solid rock beat to it. And she said she missed the big guitar solos. I think she got sucked into that one by Richie though.”<br /><br />“She just has great taste in music!” Richie retorted.<br /><br />“Wait a minute. We’re talking about Lindsay here right? Your conservative, CSI, lab tech, crime fighting wife?” He asked incredulously.<br /><br />Richie hooted. “You don’t know her very well. She may <strong>look</strong> conservative, but she’s a rocker chick at heart.”<br /><br />He looked to Jon for confirmation. Who nodded. “If she’s in the mood and the right song comes on she can head bang with the best of them. In fact, when she listened to the draft versions of this album she threatened that if I didn’t amp it up she was leaving me for Steven Tyler.”<br /><br />The reporter laughed. “Well I have to say she did well. Number one on the charts in North America, Europe, South America and Australia. It looks like life is good for Bon Jovi.”<br /><br />“Yeah.” Jon said. “It is.”Unknownnoreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2233992774788831133.post-91136908699502412672008-11-05T20:03:00.000-08:002008-11-05T20:13:18.061-08:00Chapter 64For the next week and a half, Lindsay was kept very busy. Her cases at work had picked up so she was putting in longer days, and spent what was left of her evenings trying to sort through her apartment and begin packing. She’d given her landlord notice, but she still had no clue what she was going to do with all of her furniture. She’d spent a lot of time searching for the right pieces that fit the theme and mood she was striving for. She was very proud of what she’d put together, but it wouldn’t suit Jon’s house.<br /><br />She was sitting looking around her living room when her phone rang. Looking at the window she smiled.<br /><br />“Hi, handsome.”<br /><br />“Hi, beautiful.” He chuckled. “How are you?”<br /><br />“Honestly? Tired, frustrated, did I mention tired? And I miss you.” She answered.<br /><br />“Still not sleeping well?” He asked.<br /><br />She sighed. “It’s better. I would never have believed it could take so long to get used to sleeping alone again. Of course if I was able to spend a little more time in bed it might help.”<br /><br />“I know, I keep reaching for you in the middle of the night. What’s keeping you so busy that you’re not getting enough rest?” The frown was evident in his voice.<br /><br />“Well, trying to figure out what I’m going to do with all of my furniture and stuff for one thing.” She replied.<br /><br />“Bring it with you.” Was his solution.<br /><br />“It doesn’t go with your house.” She argued.<br /><br />“So change the house. Besides it’s our house now. I want you to be comfortable there. I’m not particularly attached to anything there. It’s mostly Dorothea’s style not mine. I’m not sure I have a style. I just like things that are comfortable and don’t look ratty.” He paused. “But furniture placement can’t be what’s keeping you awake at night. What else is going on?”<br /><br />“Oh, it’s just work. We’ve been really busy lately with a multiple that we haven’t been able to catch. It’s driving us all nuts.” She tried to keep her voice light. She didn’t want to have to explain what the case was – she knew how he’d react.<br /><br />He wasn’t fooled by her tone. “Multiple what? What’s the story?”<br /><br />“You don’t really want to hear all the grisly details. What did you guys do today?” It was an off day for them and they were in San Francisco.<br /><br />“Hung out at the Wharf, went for a cruise around the bay, ate too much seafood. But let’s get back to the original subject. Yes I do want to know all the grisly details. I want to know about everything that affects you. I know that your job is stressful and often emotionally disturbing. You need to talk about it if you’re going to maintain your sanity. I want you to be able to talk to me about anything and everything. Let me be your rock. Now spill!” He urged.<br /><br />When he put it like that she couldn’t not tell him. “It’s a multiple rapist. He preys on women who live alone and holds them at gun point. They come home from work to find him already inside. The last two he’s beaten up pretty good. But he’s smart. He wears gloves and a condom. We’re getting no DNA evidence and very little trace. His attacks are getting closer together and more violent. It’s very frustrating.” Closing her eyes she waited for his reaction. It wasn’t long in coming and exactly what she expected.<br /><br />“I’m calling Kevin to see who we can send to stay with you. I want you to stay at the estate from now on. We’ll move your stuff when I get home.” He started issuing instructions.<br /><br />“Jon stop.” She interrupted him. “This is why I didn’t want to tell you the specifics. I don’t need a bodyguard. I’m not in any danger. He can’t come with me to crime scenes anyway. I’m at the estate more than I’m not already, but I need to get this stuff packed up. The landlord would like to show the apartment, and he can’t if I’ve got half packed boxes all over the place. I appreciate your concern, really, but I’ll be fine.”<br /><br />“Are you saying that I don’t have the right to be concerned?” He asked. She could hear the anger in his voice.<br /><br />“Not at all. I’m just trying to reassure you that you don’t need to be. I don’t go to any scene alone, and the police always clear everything before we get there. My apartment building is secure. There’s no reason for any criminal to connect me with their case anyway. By the time they know I’m involved, they’ve already been arrested. So, while I understand why you might be worried, there’s really no reason for you to be.” She explained.<br /><br />He sighed and she could almost see him raking his hand through his hair. “Ok, no bodyguard – for now, but I don’t like it. You can give me all the assurances in the world, but I’m still going to worry. I feel an overwhelming need to protect you.”<br /><br />“I understand that. If the situation were reversed, I’d feel the same way. I promise not to take any unnecessary risks and to always have someone with me. Ok?” She coaxed.<br /><br />“I guess. Just promise me you’ll be careful.” He pleaded.<br /><br />“I will. I promise.” She assured him.<br /><br /><br />The next afternoon she was sitting at her desk going over the reports again – they had to be missing something, when Brian stuck his head in.<br /><br />“We got another call Lindsay.” He informed her.<br /><br />“Same guy?” She asked.<br /><br />“Looks like.” He replied grimly. “Mark and Sheila are heading to the hospital to collect trace and talk to the victim – if she can. You and I will take the crime scene.”<br /><br />Nodding, she rose to join him. As they headed to the scene she slapped her knees in frustration. “We’ve got to get this guy!”<br /><br />“We will.” He assured her. “Sooner or later he’s going to make a mistake, and we’ll get him.”<br /><br />Greeting the police officer standing at the front door, they entered the house. The living room showed obvious signs of a struggle. There was blood spattered over one wall and puddled on the floor by the sofa.<br /><br />“I’ll start here.” Brian stated. “Why don’t you check upstairs to see if there’s more there?”<br /><br />Lindsay nodded, pulled out her flashlight and carefully walked up the stairs. Checking rooms as she went, everything looked undisturbed. Ending her circuit at the master bedroom, she walked through to check the ensuite bathroom. Seeing nothing out of place she turned to head back downstairs to help Brian.<br /><br />Re-entering the bedroom she was suddenly shoved from behind. Sprawling on the bed she rolled over to see a man standing in front of her with a gun in his hand pointed at her.<br /><br />“Bitch! You should have stayed downstairs. Now you’re going to have to pay, just like those other whores. You all think you’re too good for a man. You need to be put in your place. You should be home raising babies and making a home for your husband. But no, you’re too good for that! You have to go out and take jobs away from the men that deserve them! I bet you have to be on top too, don’t you! Well, not today bitch! Today you’re going to beg me for it, and then I’m going to teach you how to properly treat a man.”<br /><br />Fighting the panic rising inside her she frantically tried to think of some way to alert Brian.<br /><br />“Oooh, so you like it rough do you? I’m up for that. Where do you want it? Here, on the bed? On the floor? Maybe up against the wall?” Standing up her heart pounding she started slowly removing items of clothing, starting with her boots.<br /><br />“What are you doing?” he growled.<br /><br />“I thought you wanted to teach me a lesson. This is how you do it, isn’t it? Through sexual dominance? Well, I like to play too.” She threw first one boot, then the other against the hallway wall – hard.<br /><br />“Stop!” He shouted. He was obviously shocked by her behaviour and unsure how to proceed.<br /><br />“Oh, so you want to undress me then? Well, let me just get my kit out of the way.” Picking up the aluminum case she pitched it through the open doorway where it hit the opposite wall with a loud crash.<br /><br />Realizing the noise she was making he raised the gun and pointed it at her. “Shut up or I’ll kill you now.”<br /><br />“Lindsay? Are you okay?” Brian’s voiced drifted up the stairs.<br /><br />She opened her mouth. The man raised the gun higher and yelled. “Don’t!”<br /><br />Her scream was drowned out by the blast of the gun.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 65<br /></span><br />Jon and the guys had just come off the stage and hit the showers. It had been another great show. As much as he loved it, he was grateful for another off day the next day before the final show of this leg in Vegas. He was looking forward to being home for awhile – or more accurately, he was looking forward to being with Lindsay. The ring Richie had helped him pick out a few days ago was packed safely in his suitcase and he could hardly wait to see her face when she saw it.<br /><br />They were getting ready to head out when his phone rang. Looking at the window he smiled – a little in relief. Regardless of what she said he worried about her in her chosen profession. Granted, most of the crime in their area was fairly minor – robberies, B&E’s, that kind of thing, but this current case had his protective instincts screaming.<br /><br />“Hi honey, how are you?” He answered.<br /><br />“Mr. Bongiovi?” A man’s voice asked.<br /><br />Jon froze. “Yes, who’s this?”<br /><br />“This is Brian – Lindsay’s boss.” He answered.<br /><br />“Where is she? Has something happened to her? Why are you calling on her phone?” He could feel panic rising. The guys stopped and looked at him.<br /><br />“I’m calling on her phone because I didn’t have your number, but I figured she’d have it programmed in. I calling because I thought you would want to know. Lindsay’s in the hospital. She’s been shot.” Brian didn’t know how else to tell him.<br /><br />Jon’s knees buckled. Richie and David caught him, and lowered him into a chair Hugh moved over. “WHAT! Is she okay? How badly is she hurt? How did it happen?”<br /><br />Exchanging glances the guys all grabbed chairs and sat to wait to hear what was going on.<br /><br />“She’s alive.” Brian assured him quickly. “She took the bullet in her shoulder. She’ll be in the hospital for a few days, but she’ll be alright.” He hesitated. “I don’t know if she told you about the case we’ve been working on.”<br /><br />“The serial rapist? Yes, she did….oh God no.” Jon covered his face with his free hand.<br /><br />“No, no she wasn’t raped.” Brian said. Jon released a relieved breath. “We were at the home of his latest victim. I was processing evidence downstairs and Lindsay went upstairs to take a look around. The police had assured us they’d cleared the house, but apparently he’d been hiding somewhere upstairs. He confronted Lindsay and threatened her with rape. She managed to hold him off long enough to gain my attention. When he heard me coming, I think he panicked. That’s when he shot her. When I entered the room he turned on me, but I got a shot off first. He’s dead.”<br /><br />“Thank God.” Jon replied, then his anger broke through. “Dammit! I told her I had a bad feeling about this case. She promised me no unnecessary risks! She promised me she’d be careful!” He took a deep breath. “What hospital is she in?”<br /><br />Hanging up with Brian, he quickly filled the guys in as he hollered for Paul and started dialing the phone.<br /><br />Paul stuck his head in the door. “You bellowed?”<br /><br />“I need to fly home – tonight, immediately.” Jon bit out. “Hi Mom, hang on a minute.” He turned back to Paul. “Lindsay’s been shot. I’ll be ready to take off in half an hour.”<br /><br />“I’m going with you” Richie stated.<br /><br />“Me too.” David spoke up. Tico and Hugh nodded.<br /><br />Paul nodded. “Ok, I’m on it. Is she ok?” He asked.<br /><br />“She will be.” Jon answered. He spoke into the phone. “Mom? Lindsay’s been shot. She’s in the hospital.” He explained as much as he knew about what happened. “Her boss said she’ll be ok, but I don’t think she should be alone. We’re on our way back, but it’s going to be a few hours.”<br /><br />“Say no more.” Carol interrupted him. “I’m on my way. I’ll call you when I get there and get an update from her doctor. What hospital is she in?”<br /><br /><br />Lindsay lay in a hospital bed in a drug induced haze. The pain killers they had given her had reduced the agony to a dull ache, but also dulled her mind. Her memory of what happened up until she heard Brian calling her was clear, but then everything became very fuzzy. She did know that she came very close to dying. If the shooter had been even a little bit less panicked, his arm wouldn’t have been shaking so bad and his aim would have been straighter.<br /><br />And she would be dead. Just when she was finally finding some happiness. It made her start to seriously reassess her life. But first she needed to get some sleep and clear her head.<br /><br />When she opened her eyes again, she saw Carol sitting in a chair beside her bed.<br /><br />“What..? How?....” She was confused.<br /><br />Carol smiled reassuringly. “Jon called me. He didn’t want you to be alone. He’s on his way. How are you feeling? Can I get you anything?”<br /><br />Lindsay shook her head. “My shoulder hurts, but the drugs keep it to a dull roar. Other than that I’m fine. I am a little confused though. How did Jon find out?”<br /><br />“Your boss called him. Have you talked to your parents? Do you want me to call them?” She offered.<br /><br />“Thanks. Would you mind? I’m not sure I’m up to trying to convince my mother that I’m not at death’s door and she doesn’t need to come flying down here to take care of me.” She didn’t have the energy. Besides she wanted some time alone. She needed to think.<br /><br />“No problem. And don’t begrudge her her concern. She’s a mother, she’s entitled. But I think I can assure her that we will take good care of you.” Writing down the number Lindsay gave her she headed out of the room to find a phone.<br /><br />Alone again, at least for a few minutes, Lindsay reflected on her life, her goals, her priorities. She had started making changes a year ago. Maybe it was time to make some more. Maybe it was time to grab for that brass ring.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 66</span><br /><br />She must have dozed off again, because when next she opened her eyes, the sun was shining through her window.<br /><br />Turning her head she smiled a greeting at Carol, who was once again sitting beside her bed. She opened her mouth to speak when they heard a commotion in the hallway.<br /><br />Carol listened for a moment then grinned and patted Lindsay’s hand. “Sounds like the boys have arrived.”<br /><br />She was right. Within minutes, Lindsay’s room was overrun by five very tired, but relieved looking men.<br /><br />While the others approached Lindsay, Carol held Jon back. “Don’t you go taking out your anxiety on her. She’s been through enough without having to deal with your temper.”<br /><br />“Hey darlin’. How are you feeling?” Richie asked as he bent down and kissed her forehead.<br /><br />“Like I’ve got a fire burning in my shoulder, but other than that I’m fine.” She answered with a smile.<br /><br />“Does it hurt really bad, do you want me to get a nurse to get you something for it?” David asked with concern.<br /><br />She smiled and motioned him closer so that she could kiss his cheek. “No, it’s okay for right now. The drugs are great for the pain, but they make my mind fuzzy and a little disoriented. I really don’t know why people would pay to feel like that.” She shook her head.<br /><br />“You gave us quite a scare <em>nina</em>.” Tico told her sternly, kissing her cheek. “Don’t do that again.”<br /><br />“I didn’t exactly plan on doing it this time!” She retorted. “Believe me I don’t intend on doing it again.”<br /><br />“Didn’t you know that wearing the superman symbol doesn’t make you bulletproof?” Hugh joked and kissed her as well.<br /><br />“NOW you tell me!” She said in an exasperated tone.<br /><br />They all laughed – except Jon. He was the last to approach her. The others moved to give him room. She watched him warily. He stood there for a long moment just looking at her, taking in her bandaged right shoulder and pale face. The muscle in his cheek twitched.<br /><br />“Are you going to yell at me?” She asked cautiously.<br /><br />He didn’t answer.<br /><br />Reaching out with her uninjured arm she grabbed his hand and squeezed it. “Hey, I’m ok.” She assured him softly.<br /><br />Sitting on the edge of the bed he leaned down to carefully wrap his arms around her. “Oh God Lindsay, I thought I’d lost you! I don’t know what I’d do if you were taken from me!”<br /><br />The movement hurt her, but she ignored the pain. She had come so close to never feeling his arms around her again, that she just wanted to stay like that forever. She bit back her protest when he finally released her and sat up. They both had tears in their eyes. Neither one noticed that the others had left to give them time alone.<br /><br />“What happened to ‘no unnecessary risks’? What happened to being careful?” He asked in a deceptively calm voice.<br /><br />“I <strong>was</strong> careful. The police had assured us they’d cleared the house. I don’t know where he was hiding that they didn’t find him.” She defended herself. “I’ve never been so scared in my life. I was afraid that Brian wouldn’t hear me, that I was going to be raped and killed….that I would never see you again….” Her voice trailed off into a sob.<br /><br />Her tears and obvious fear dispelled his anger, and tore at his heart. Lying down beside her, careful not to jar her shoulder, he smoothed the hair back from her forehead and kissed the tears from her face.<br /><br />“Ssssh, sweetheart. I’m here. Nobody’s going to hurt you.” Stroking her hair and her cheek he waited for her to calm enough to talk. “Tell me everything.”<br /><br />He held her and comforted her while she got it all out. When she finished he fought to control his temper.<br /><br />“I’m glad the bastard’s dead.” He ground out.<br /><br />“Me too.” She let out a hiccupping sigh, and fought to keep her eyes open.<br /><br />Noticing, he kissed her gently. “Get some rest honey.” She gripped his arm. “I’ll be right here, I’m not going anywhere.” He assured.<br /><br />When she woke again he was still there, holding her gently, dozing himself. Smiling, watched him sleep. He must have felt her stare, because he opened his eyes and smiled back at her.<br /><br />“Hey there.” She whispered.<br /><br />“Hey.” He whispered back.<br /><br />A nurse came in then interrupting them. Stopping when she saw Jon lying on the bed with Lindsay she frowned at him. “Now don’t you be going and jostling that shoulder around. She’s in enough pain. You’ll have her back again hale, hearty and good as new in no time if you just leave her alone and let her heal.”<br /><br />“Yes ma’am.” He said meekly, sitting up and trading the bed for a chair.<br /><br />Lindsay’s chuckle was cut off by a gasp as she tried to sit up straighter. Immediately, both Jon and the nurse were at her side to help her.<br /><br />“Thanks, I’m ok now.” She leaned back against her pillow.<br /><br />When the nurse had finished checking her over and left, she turned to Jon. “So how was the show last night?” They talked about the tour, the guys, her moving in, the kids, all kinds of things. When the candy striper brought in her dinner, she brought one for Jon too.<br /><br />“Thanks Jenny.” He said reading her name tag. The young girl blushed and rushed out the door.<br /><br />Lindsay laughed. “And yet another female heart falls to the Bon Jovi charm.”<br /><br />He laughed. “The kids wanted to come see you, but I told them to wait until you got home. They agreed to delay my birthday celebration until you’re home.”<br /><br />She nodded. “That’s probably a good idea. By then I’ll be off the heavy painkillers and my head won’t be so fuzzy. I’ll be able to enjoy it more.”<br /><br />“I thought you were supposed to enjoy fuzzy.” David stated from the doorway, a bouquet of flowers in his hand.<br /><br />“Is that why you keep your hair looking like that?” Jon inquired with a grin. David flipped him off.<br /><br />Lindsay laughed. “Don’t listen to him, I know for a fact there’s a lot of fans out there who love your curls. The flowers are beautiful. Thank you.”<br /><br />He sat the flowers on a cabinet, walked over and kissed her cheek. “You’re looking better already.”<br /><br />Minutes later they were joined by Tico and Hugh. The four men set out to entertain her and keep her mind occupied and off her pain. She fleeting wondered where Richie was, but figured he must be sleeping, or maybe visiting his mother.<br /><br />Finally, the nurse came in to shoo them all out. “Don’t you be getting her all worked up now! It’s nice that you came to keep her company, but she needs to rest and to heal now. You can come see her tomorrow, but for now….shoo!”<br /><br />Lindsay struggled to hold back her laughter as she said goodnight to David, Tico and Hugh and watched the three men walk meekly out of the room. “I wish the public could see this!” She chortled. When Jon raised a questioning brow at her she explained. “Four rockstars meekly obeying orders without a word.<br /><br />He grinned. “Well, she’s a little scary!”<br /><br />“Who’s scary?” Richie asked from the doorway.<br /><br />“The nurse. Watch out for her. She likes to give orders.” Jon warned him.<br /><br />“It’s okay, I just talked to her and told her the night shift had arrived. She said she’d bring me a blanket and a pillow.” Richie replied.<br /><br />Jon frowned. He opened his mouth, but Lindsay beat him to it. “What are you talking about?”<br /><br />“I’m here to stay with you tonight so that Jon can go and get some sleep.” Richie explained.<br /><br />“Yeah man, about that. I know that’s what we agreed to, but I think I’ll just stay here. I slept a bit earlier, so I’m good.” Jon began.<br /><br />“No.” Lindsay said, her voice firm. “You need to go get some sleep. You have to do a show tomorrow in Vegas. And you may have dozed earlier, but you didn’t really sleep.” She looked at Richie. “And you don’t need to stay here either.”<br /><br />“I don’t want you left alone tonight.” Jon frowned. She was right about him only dozing earlier, but what she didn’t seem to remember was the number of times she woke him, crying in her sleep or clutching at him and calling his name. He didn’t want her waking from a nightmare and finding herself alone.<br /><br />“Jon, they’re going to give me a sedative anyway. I’ll be out until morning.” She explained patiently. “There’s no reason for either one of you missing out on sleep. I’ll be fine.”<br /><br />“And I’ll be fine right here with you.” Richie replied, holding up a hand when she would have argued. “Give it up Lindsay, I’m not leaving. Now, say goodnight to Jon and tell me if you want to watch some T.V., or read or talk or just sit quietly.”<br /><br />Realizing that for all of his easy going, joking ways, this big man could be quite stubborn and immovable when it came to what he thought was best for those he loved, she gave in gracefully, kissed Jon goodnight, and selected a movie to watch.<br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 67<br /></span><br />The day that Lindsay was released from the hospital she was up and dressed early. She couldn’t wait to get out. If she had to stay there another day she was sure she’d lose her mind. Her shoulder still hurt, but if she sat perfectly still, she could actually get some relief from the pain. She was off the heavy drugs, but still needed painkillers regularly.<br /><br />When Jon showed up to get her she wanted to walk out herself, but the nurse insisted that she had to be taken to the door in a wheelchair. “Hospital policy” She was told. Grumbling she sat in the chair and kept telling Jon to go faster.<br /><br />“Relax, honey, if I go any faster we might have an accident and then you’d have to stay here.” He warned her. She stopped grumbling.<br /><br />Arriving at the estate, Jon rushed around to her door to help her out and into the house and settled on the couch in the den, before heading out to bring in her bag.<br /><br />“Lindsay!” She looked up as the kids came running into the room.<br /><br />“Hi guys!” She hugged Steph and Jesse.<br /><br />“Hey watch her shoulder!” Jon reminded them. Lifting Romeo up, he sat him on her left side. “Stay on this side ok buddy?” The toddler nodded and snuggled in close to her.<br /><br />Jake knelt on the cushion on her right side and very carefully leaned in to kiss her under Jon’s watchful eye. Then he sat back and looked hopeful. “Can we give Daddy his birthday presents now?”<br /><br />She smiled. “Sure,” Motioning Stephanie to her she whispered where she had hidden her present for Jon and asked the teenager to get it for her.<br /><br />Sitting back, she quietly watched Jon and his children. When Romeo climbed up on the couch next to her again, she wrapped her arm around him and hugged him close. She loved these family times, but they were hard for her. His children had welcomed her with open arms and she loved them, but she was painfully aware that she would always be ‘Lindsay’, never ‘Mom’. She thought she’d accepted that she’d never have children years ago, but sometimes – like now with Romeo cuddled close – she felt a pang of longing.<br /><br />The little boy squirmed around until he could pluck at her sling. “Owie?”<br /><br />“Yes sweetie, that’s my owie.” She answered and showed him her bandage. She had to blink back tears when he leaned forward and kissed it. “Better?” He asked. Hugging him with her good arm she kissed him. “Yes, it feels much better, thank you sweetie?”<br /><br />Looking up she saw Jon watching them with a gentle smile and eyes full of love.<br /><br />Later that day she was sitting watching the kids. Steph was flipping through a magazine, Jesse was playing a video game, and Jake and Romeo were building a Lego tower to the moon – if it didn’t fall over first, which it had twice already. She didn’t notice Jon watching her.<br /><br />Sitting down beside her, he picked up her hand and laced their fingers together. “You ok? Do you need a pill, or a rest?”<br /><br />“No thanks, I’m fine.” She smiled and laid her head on his shoulder.<br /><br /><br />When he entered their bedroom that night he found her standing by the balcony doors, staring at the stars, lost in thought. Walking up behind her, he slid his arms around her waist and pulled her gently back against him.<br /><br />“Penny for your thoughts.” He murmured in her ear.<br /><br />“Oh, they’re worth a whole lot more than that.” She replied. “They’re worth the whole word.”<br /><br />“Tell me.” He urged.<br /><br />She struggled to put her thoughts into words. “Coming that close to dying made me re-evaluate my goals in life and my priorities. I had finally found some happiness, and it was almost taken away. My focus has always been my career and my family – or to be more exact, my brothers’ families.” She paused, and took a deep breath, coming to a decision. “I think I need to make some changes.” She felt him stiffen slightly and patted his arm and leaned back further against him.<br /><br />“I’m going to talk to Brian about getting out of the field and working in the lab full time. I’ve got all the qualifications, the hours are better, and there is less chance of contact with the bad guys, but I can still help people. The pay is less, but I can live with that.”<br /><br />He snorted. “Yeah, I think we can manage. I have to tell you honey, that this makes me feel a whole lot better. I know you love your job, and I wanted to be supportive, but frankly, it scares the hell out of me.” He paused. “Any other changes you want to make?”<br /><br />“Actually, yes.” She hesitated, opening and closing her mouth several times, unsure how to broach the subject with him.<br /><br />“Come on honey, it can’t be that bad.” He could sense her anxiety.<br /><br />“You know that I love the kids, right?” She began. He nodded. “For so many years, family to me has been my parents, my brothers, their wives and their children. I’ve never had a family of my own. I never had the chance, and I thought I had accepted that I never would.” She paused and grabbed her courage with both hands. She had no idea what his reaction would be. “I’d like to have a child of my own. I wouldn’t try to displace the other four. I… I just… I’d like to know what it feels like to nurture a child within my body. To feel it kick and grow. I’d just like to know that there would be some part of me – of us - left behind when my time comes. It may be too late for me anyway, but I’d like to try. But I understand if you don’t want to have anymore ……”<br /><br />Turning her to face him he shushed her with a finger to her lips. “Hold that thought. Wait just one minute.”<br /><br />She watched him walk to his dresser and take something out of the top drawer, but she couldn’t see what it was.<br /><br />“First of all, you can have as many children as you want. Thirty-nine isn’t too old any more. There’s still time. I’ll do my best to keep up my end. But…I think…maybe…” He stopped, suddenly nervous. He laughed softly. “This isn’t how I’d planned to do this, but this seems like the right time.” He blew out a breath and dropped to one knee. Holding out the box he’d been holding in his hand he flipped it open. She gasped. “Lindsay, I love you with all my heart and soul. You brought light and love back into my life when everything was dark and cold. You restored my faith in love and in myself. You bring me joy and happiness. I can’t imagine my life without you in it. I want to make you happy and keep you safe for the rest of your life. Will you marry me? Will you share my house, my children, my life? Will you let me share yours? Will you let me help make all of your dreams come true? Will you be my wife, my partner, my rock? Will you let me be yours?”<br /><br />She could hardly speak for the tears clogging her throat and running down her cheeks. It was the most beautiful ring she’d ever seen. The huge marquise cut diamond had two sapphires on either side and was set in yellow gold. It was perfect.<br /><br />“Oh Jon, it’s beautiful! And the sapphires! You remembered.” She whispered in awe.<br /><br />“Honey? You’re killing me here!” He pleaded.<br /><br />She smiled through her tears. “My answer is yes. Yes, I’ll marry you. Yes I’ll let you share my life. Yes I want to share yours. Yes, I want you for my husband, my partner, my rock. I can’t imagine my life without you either. You made me believe in me, that I was worthy of being loved. When I thought I would spend the rest of my life alone, you pushed your way in and wouldn’t leave. You made me a part of your family. I love you with everything that I am.”<br /><br />Rising, he slid the ring on her finger, gathered her carefully in his arms and kissed her with all the emotion he was feeling. She accepted it, absorbed it, and returned it.<br /><br />She’d left her home, her family and her country to start a new life. She found love and a family of her own. <em>I guess I did the right thing!</em>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2233992774788831133.post-62193175864425185112008-11-05T19:54:00.000-08:002008-11-05T20:03:06.748-08:00Chapter 61The next day Lindsay was sitting idly scanning the interview schedule while she was waiting for Jon to finish. Suddenly an idea hit. Glancing at the clock she let the idea grow and formulate into a plan. Grinning, she rose to wait outside the room where they were doing the interviews.<br /><br />Luck was with her. Richie escorted the interviewer out of the room. Lindsay motioned him to silence. He stepped into the hallway and closed the door.<br /><br />“What’s up Linds? We still have one more interview.” Richie reminded her.<br /><br />“Yeah, I know. Is Jon in there still? Alone?” She asked, a little nervous now that the moment was at hand.<br /><br />“Yeeah. What’s going on in that devious little mind of yours?” He’d noticed her blush and knew she was up to something.<br /><br />“The next interview is in about five minutes right?” She ignored his question. He nodded. “Can you give me that five minutes alone with Jon?”<br /><br />He grinned. “Sure darlin’. I’ll guard the door.”<br /><br />“Thanks.” She grinned back as she entered the room and closed the door behind her.<br /><br />Jon looked up when the door opened. He was sitting in a chair with a low coffee table in front of him. Matching chairs sat beside him and across the table. “Hey honey. Just one more and I’ll be done.” He smiled at her.<br /><br />She smiled back at him and sat on his lap. “I know. But since you have a few minutes now, I just wanted to remind you not to schedule anything on your birthday celebration day.” Since he had been on the road for his birthday they had decided to celebrate it with the kids the day after he got home from this leg of the tour. “I know you’ve been talking to Craig about meetings, and I thought I should remind you of <strong>our</strong> plans.”<br /><br />Leaning down she traced the contour of his ear with her tongue, blew in it and bit softly on his earlobe. She chuckled when he shivered.<br /><br />“Uh, honey…as much as I love what you’re doing , I do have another interview to do, and…” Her mouth swallowed the rest of his words.<br /><br />When her hand opened his shirt his shirt to caress his chest he groaned and tightened his hold on her. Reaching further she stroked him through the fabric of his chinos. The loose fit of the pants allowed her to grip him with her fingers and squeeze.<br /><br />Breaking the kiss he let his head fall back and moaned. “Jesus, sugar. You’ve got to stop…they’re going to walk in any minute.”<br /><br />She just chuckled and moved her mouth to his neck, kissing, sucking and nibbling on his exposed adam’s apple. Her hand never stopped it’s playing.<br /><br />A discreet knock at the door had her standing up and examining her handiwork. He was flushed, his breathing slightly laboured, and his eyes had darkened and dilated. Sweat had gathered on his upper lip, and the light material of his pants couldn’t conceal his reaction to her ministrations.<br /><br />He followed her gaze. “Dammit Lindsay! Look what you’ve done to me!”<br /><br />Chuckling, she headed to the door where she turned and looked back at him. “I warned you. Payback’s a bitch! Now you can experience how embarrassing it is for others to see that you can’t control the desire that burns between us!”<br /><br />Opening the door she smiled and nodded to the female interviewer standing there with Richie. Looking over Lindsay’s head, Richie took one look at Jon, looked back at Lindsay and started laughing. “Remind me never to piss you off!”<br /><br /><br />She was sitting in the dressing room chatting with David, Tico and Hugh when Jon and Richie walked in.<br /><br />“How’d it go?” She asked innocently.<br /><br />“Long and painful.” Jon responded in a voice just short of a growl. “Just like you planned.”<br /><br />“Why? What she’d do?” David asked, sensing a good story.<br /><br />“Let’s just say that the writer for the entertainment section of the local paper saw first hand what an ‘upstanding’ guy Jon is thanks to Lindsay.” Richie replied.<br /><br />They all turned and stared at her.<br /><br />“What?” She asked trying not to smile.<br /><br />“You’re evil.” Jon informed her.<br /><br />She grinned. “You learned a valuable lesson though didn’t you?”<br /><br />They all nodded. “Never piss you off!” They chorused. She laughed.<br /><br />Walking up to Jon she wrapped her arms around his waist, looked up at him and kissed his chin. “Still love me?”<br /><br />Sighing, he closed his arms around her and kissed her nose. “Yes, and no more ‘branding’. I promise.”<br /><br />“I don’t mind the bites, just make sure they won’t show.” She smiled.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 62</span><br /><br />Lindsay woke the next morning tired, and a little sad. This was her last day on the tour. She was flying back to Jersey the next morning. Rolling over she snuggled closer to the warm body beside her. He hugged her close. The alarm on his cell phone went off.<br /><br />She groaned. He chuckled, stretched and yawned. “Come on honey. Plane’s waiting.”<br /><br />“You’re the boss, can’t you delay take off for a couple hours?” She grumbled.<br /><br />Brushing her hair back from her face he kissed her firmly. “No. I want to have some time to show you my favorite places in Denver.” It was an off day for them. They were flying to Denver today so that they could adjust to the altitude before the show tomorrow. He shook her gently. “You can sleep on the plane.”<br /><br />She cracked an eye open to look at him. “If I try out the bed on that plane it had better be for something besides sleeping.” He grinned.<br /><br />The day was cold and rainy. Denver was going to be even colder. In defence she pulled on a pair of jeans and a Giants sweatshirt so old it was faded and soft and cozy, but it was still warm.<br /><br />Jon looked at her and smiled. “Been raiding my closet again I see.”<br /><br />She shrugged. “It’s so warm and cozy. I love it. It’s perfect for a day like this.”<br /><br />Wrapping his arms around her he hugged her and kissed her softly. “That it is sweetheart.”<br /><br />Boarding the plane she took a seat and fought a yawn. Once they reached cruising altitude and the seatbelt sign went off, Richie turned to her. “Why don’t you go have a nap Linds. You look like you’re about to fall asleep sitting up.”<br /><br />“I don’t know how you guys do this for months on end. I’ve only been doing it a week and I’m exhausted!” She shook her head.<br /><br />He shrugged. “You get used to it. Seriously though, there’s a bed back there. We’ll wake you in an hour or so.”<br /><br />Getting up and walking down the aisle she glanced at Jon who winked at her as she walked by. Entering the bedroom, she took off her boots and jeans, curled up under the blankets and was asleep within minutes. <br /><br />She didn’t know how long she’d been asleep, but she was awakened by a hand sliding up under her sweatshirt to cup a breast. She felt his breath in her ear just before his mouth latched onto her earlobe and bit gently. Murmuring in appreciation she rolled onto her back, opened her eyes and smiled at him. Raising her arms she helped him remove her sweatshirt. Her bra quickly followed as did her panties. She was pleased to discover he was already naked.<br /><br />“You’re quick.” She commented, reaching out to pull him down to her.<br /><br />“We don’t have a lot of time. We land in about 45 minutes.” He replied before capturing her lips with his.<br /><br />While he teased her mouth with his tongue his hands were busy teasing her body. One kneaded her breast, while the other slid between her thighs to gently rubbed her sensitive nub.<br /><br />Moaning softly, she arched her back trying to increase the contact between their bodies. Pressing one hand between them, she caressed his chest, his abs, reaching to take him in her hand. Gripping firmly, she stroked.<br /><br />Groaning, he slid two fingers deep inside her, moving them in and out to prepare her. Feeling her wetness, he quickly replaced his fingers with his hardness…..and held still.<br /><br />Gasping at his sudden entry, she clutched at his arms, arched again and shuddered. “Jon!”<br /><br />“Sssh, you have to be quiet. This room isn’t soundproofed.” He murmured.<br /><br />His words barely registered. Her mind was completely focused on the feel of his hard length buried deep inside her, unmoving, pulsing against her soft flesh. Unable to help herself, she began undulating against him.<br /><br />Pushing up to the full length of his arms, he watched her writhing beneath him. He loved the way she looked lost to passion. But her movements soon broke through his control, and he started to move.<br /><br />Wanting to feel his weight she tugged at his arms until he gave in and lowered himself completely. Moaning, biting her lips to hold back her cries, she wrapped her legs tightly around him and urged him to move faster.<br /><br />Knowing she wouldn’t be able to keep quiet when she climaxed, when he felt her tighten around him he covered her mouth with his and inhaled her orgasmic scream, quickly following her two thrusts later.<br /><br />Raising his head, still panting he looked down at her. “Welcome to the club.” She chuckled.<br /><br />After cleaning up and dressing, they rejoined the rest in the main cabin. David searched her face and smirked. “Feeling better?”<br /><br />“Much.” She smiled. Not even the threat of David’s near constant teasing could diminish her ‘floating on a cloud’ feeling.<br /><br /><br />After they had settled into the hotel, Jon took her on a tour around the city, showing her his favorite places. When they arrived at the restaurant for dinner, they had a drink at the bar while they waited for their table.<br /><br />“Hey Jon!” A voice called out.<br /><br />Turning Jon smiled at the man approaching them. “Hey man! I’ve been trying to call you!”<br /><br />“I know, I’m sorry, my life’s been just crazy lately. I got your message and I figured you’d be here at some point tonight, so when I was in the neighbourhood I thought I’d give it a shot.” Came the reply.<br /><br />After shaking hands, Jon turned to introduce them. “John I’d like you to meet my girlfriend Lindsay Chandler. Honey, this is John Elway.”<br /><br />She really couldn’t resist. “Hello Pork Chop.”<br /><br />Both men groaned. Lindsay grinned.<br /><br />“God, I’m never going to live that down am I?” John shook his head.<br /><br />“Hey, I loved those videos! They were great!” She insisted. “But I’m telling you both right now….there will be no football played in <strong>my</strong> house. You want to play outside, fine, I’ll even cheer you on, but not in my foyer!” She winked.<br /><br />They chatted for awhile, and Jon and Lindsay invited John to join them for dinner, but he had another engagement.<br /><br />“Are you going to be in Philly when we come to ‘crush’ you?” John asked Jon.<br /><br />“Ha ha. I’m not sure. I’m trying, but Paul’s giving me grief about the promo schedule.” Jon replied.<br /><br />“Don’t worry. If Jon can’t be there, I’ll keep you company. I’ll even let you sit in the owner’s box with me.” Lindsay offered, grinning.<br /><br />“You like football?” John asked, surprised.<br /><br />“I like arena football.” She qualified. “I’ll watch the outdoor game, but I find it a little slow and boring.” She waited for the reaction from the Hall of Famer.<br /><br />John stared at her for a moment, saw the twinkle in her eyes, and turned to Jon with a sympathetic look. “You are a braver man than me, my friend.”<br /><br />“Why?” Jon asked surprised.<br /><br />“This one’s going to keep you on your toes. Beautiful, bright, likes football…so what’s she doing with you?” He shook his head. “I don’t get it.”<br /><br />She shrugged. “He writes a good love song.”<br /><br />They all laughed.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 63</span><br /><br />Sighing, Lindsay laid her head on the back of her seat and waited for the movie to begin. She wasn’t even halfway home yet and she missed him like crazy. Last night had been great. After dinner they had headed back to the hotel. They were going to have a drink in the bar, but seeing the guys already there, decided they wanted to spend their last few hours together alone. They’d spent the rest of the night making love, cuddling and talking quietly. It had been heaven in the Mile High city.<br /><br />Saying goodbye that morning had been hell. Jon had wanted to go with her to the airport, but she insisted he stay at the hotel. She thought it would be easier that way. She’d managed to hold back the tears and smile when she took her leave of the guys, but when Jon had taken her in his arms by the car, she hadn’t wanted to let go.<br /><br />“Ssshh honey, it’s only for a couple weeks, then I’ll be home for a whole month.” He had tried to comfort her. “By the time we leave for Europe, you’ll be so sick of me, you’ll drive me to the airport yourself.”<br /><br />She had smiled. “Oh, I doubt that. For some reason, I can’t seem to get enough of you.”<br /><br />He had grinned. “I know the feeling sweetheart. Now have a safe flight and call me when you get home.” He had kissed her gently. “I’ll miss you sugar.”<br /><br />“I’ll miss you too.” She’d whispered. Then she climbed into the car before she lost control completely.<br /><br />Sighing again, she forced herself to think about all the things she needed to do when she got home – all the mundane chores like cleaning and laundry – and it was back to work for her tomorrow. She should also check in with Stephanie and the boys sometime this week to finalize plans for Jon’s birthday celebration. Making lists in her head she dozed off, waking just before landing.<br /><br />Back in her apartment, she unpacked and started the laundry while she gave it a good cleaning, with Jovi blaring from the stereo in the background. It took her longer than usual because so many songs now had new memories attached and she’d have to stop and remember.<br /><br />Checking the clock she figured she could catch him before they went on stage and grabbed the phone.<br /><br />“Hey honey.” He answered.<br /><br />“Hi. I know you’re about to go on stage. I just wanted to let you know I’m home safe and sound.” She assured him.<br /><br />“Ok, good. I was starting to get worried. You’re right, we’re about to go on. I’ll call you after the show.” He promised. “I love you.”<br /><br />“I love you too. Bye honey.” She replied.<br /><br />“Bye.” He hung up.<br /><br />She tried to watch some T.V., but she ended up just surfing the channels. Nothing was capturing her interest. It was getting late and she knew she should get some sleep, but her body was still on Colorado time, and she wasn’t really tired.<br /><br />She decided to go to bed anyway and read for awhile. That usually did the trick. Not this time. After an hour, she got up and wandered restlessly around her apartment. She knew what the problem was, but didn’t want to admit it. Finally, she roamed into the bathroom for the umpteenth time and stared at herself in the mirror. “Oh who are you kidding?!” She asked herself with a shake of her head.<br /><br />Giving up, she quickly packed a bag and headed out the door.<br /><br />The ringing of her cell phone woke her.<br /><br />“Hello?” She answered a little groggily.<br /><br />“Hi honey. I’m sorry did I wake you?” He asked.<br /><br />“It’s ok. How did the show go?” She burrowed down in the bed and held the phone close.<br /><br />“Pretty good. The fans here are a little nuts. It must be the altitude.” He answered wryly.<br /><br />“Who are you kidding? You love it.” She laughed.<br /><br />“Yeah, I do.” He admitted. “So you’re in bed?” He wanted to be able to create a picture of her in his mind.<br /><br />“Actually,” She paused. “I’m in your bed.” She held her breath, hoping he didn’t ask what had brought her there. She wasn’t sure how to explain it herself. <strong>She definitely</strong> wasn’t going to tell him she was wearing his t-shirt and had fallen asleep clutching his pillow.<br /><br />There was silence for a minute. “Good. That’s where you belong.” He wasn’t going to ask why. He didn’t care as long as she was there.<br /><br />“So where are you?” She asked trying to picture it.<br /><br />“Still in the dressing room waiting for David. Then we’re heading back to the hotel for the after party.” He answered.<br /><br />“Did Elway show up?” He was going to try.<br /><br />“Yeah, but he left a few minutes ago. He said he’d call you about the game in Philly.” He informed her reluctantly. “I’m still not sure I like that idea.”<br /><br />“Why?” She asked puzzled. “What are you worried about?”<br /><br />“Well, I have to admit I’m a little afraid of you two getting together when I’m not there to defend myself – or break up the fight.” He admitted.<br /><br />She laughed. “Well then I guess you’re just going to have to work hard to make sure you’re there.”<br /><br />“I’m trying darlin’, I’m trying.” He chuckled. “Oh, here come the guys. I guess I’d better go. Try and get some sleep. I’ll call you tomorrow.” His voiced lowered. “I miss you.”<br /><br />“I miss you too. A lot.” She murmured blinking back the tears. “Say hi to the guys for me. Try and find David a woman. Then he’d have a reason to spend so much time in the bathroom.”<br /><br />He laughed. “I’ll do my best. Talk to you tomorrow honey. I love you.”<br /><br />“’Night Jon. I love you too.”<br /><br />“’Night honey.”<br /><br />Closing the phone she laid it on the night stand, pulled his pillow closer and drifted off to sleep.<br /><br /><br />In Denver, Jon closed his phone and shoved it in his pocket. Looking up he caught Richie grinning at him.<br /><br />“What?” He asked.<br /><br />“When are we going ring shopping?” Richie smiled.<br /><br />“What are you talking about?” Jon tried to brush him off.<br /><br />“Come on man. This is me. I <strong>know</strong> you. You’ve got it bad, and you won’t be happy until she’s a permanent part of your life. Frankly I couldn’t be happier for you. She’s beautiful, bright, caring, compassionate, has a great sense of humour, isn’t overwhelmed by you and your lifestyle, loves your kids, tolerates us – what more could you want? Are you honestly going to stand there and tell me you’re not sure? That you’re not madly in love with her?” Richie demanded.<br /><br />Jon smiled and shook his head. “No, I’m not….I can’t” He paused thinking. “How’s Wednesday? We’ll be in L.A. and you can take me to that jewelry store you told me about.”Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2233992774788831133.post-59843438118878758682008-11-05T19:44:00.000-08:002008-11-05T19:54:12.036-08:00Chapter 58Everything came to a head in Chicago. They had flown in the night before due to morning interviews, which suited Lindsay just fine. She loved Chicago, even though she’d only been there once before. She was looking forward to a few hours exploring Navy Pier and shopping on the Mile.<br /><br />When she finally arrived at the arena they had already started the sound check. Rushing down the hallway she almost collided with Chad.<br /><br />“Whoa, there Lindsay. Slow down before you hurt yourself.” He laughed.<br /><br />“Hi, Chad. I’m sorry. I’m late and I wasn’t watching where I was going.” She apologized.<br /><br />“No harm, no foul.” He assured her.<br /><br />As they walked into the stage area together, she heard Obie call for Richie to try something. Sitting down, she looked at Jon and waved. He didn’t wave back.<br /><br />“Where the hell have you been?” He demanded into the mic to be sure she heard him.<br /><br />Raising one eyebrow at his tone she answered. “Shopping. Wait until you see what I got the kids. I found the cutest little outfit for Romeo…”<br /><br />“You’re late.” He interrupted.<br /><br />“Hey man, don’t do this.” Richie warned him. Jon ignored him.<br /><br />“You know I want you here before sound check.” He bit out.<br /><br />Facing another of his moods, her patience snapped.<br /><br />“Hey! Don’t play the temperamental rockstar with me Jon! I know what you look like in the morning.” She turned to Richie and changed the subject. “Come on Swingman, show me what you can do.”<br /><br />Richie immediately started into a heavy riff and everyone breathed a sigh of relief when Jon let it go.<br /><br />When they were finished, Lindsay caught Richie’s eye. Understanding what she wanted he hung back pretending to be checking something on one of his guitars. When the others had left he went and sat beside Lindsay.<br /><br />She sighed. “I’m sorry Rich, I don’t want to upset things before a show, but I can’t take this anymore. What the hell is wrong with him? I ask and ask, but he won’t talk to me. Is this normal for him on the road, or is there something wrong?”<br /><br />He raked a hand through his hair. “No, this isn’t normal for him. I guess maybe I should have said something to you sooner, but I was hoping that he’d pull his head out of his ass on his own.” He paused. “He’s jealous, and he’s not dealing with it well.”<br /><br />She frowned. “Jealous of who?”<br /><br />“You and Chad.” He replied. When she just stared at him incredulously, he nodded. “I know, he’s seeing things that aren’t there, but you need to understand where he’s at right now. He was never jealous of Dorothea, never dreamed that she’d cheat on him and you, more than anyone, know how that worked out. So now there’s you. He’s crazy in love with you and determined not to have it fall apart this time because he wasn’t paying attention.”<br /><br />She shook her head in disbelief. “But I have never given him any reason to think that I would cheat on him…..have I? My God Richie, he is my life! What would I want with anyone else when I have him?” Her eyes widened. “Is this because of that comment I made the night I arrived about having a thing for frontmen and that I thought Chad was hot?”<br /><br />Richie sighed. “That started it. He took it more seriously than you meant it. After that, he saw you talking to Chad…at the after parties, sitting here during sound check…and his imagination ran riot. I told you he’s never had to deal with jealousy before and he’s not doing a good job of it. Deep down he knows you love him, but there’s that part of him that’s watching for your attention to turn elsewhere.” He frowned. “And to be honest, I’m not sure Chad’s intentions are innocent.”<br /><br />She looked at him in surprise. “What makes you say that?”<br /><br />He shrugged. “Just a feeling I get when I see the way he looks at you. And you see the way he and Jon are with each other.”<br /><br />She snorted. “Yeah, talk about testosterone overload! But at least now I know why.” She sighed. “So how do I convince Jon that I love him and only him?”<br /><br />“I don’t know how to help you there Linds. I guess, just talk to him…and stay away from Chad.” He advised. <br /><br />When she entered the dressing room Jon stared at her. “Where’ve you been?”<br /><br />“Calm down, she was helping me.” Richie answered before she could. Jon grunted and opened a bottle of wine.<br /><br />Lindsay sat in a chair and watched him. She’d never been in a situation like this before and never dreamed she would be with him. She figured she would be the one having to deal with feelings of jealousy. Part of her was flattered that he would actually be jealous of her. Part of her was angry that he didn’t trust her, although she could understand why he was little apprehensive where fidelity was concerned. So…how was she supposed to reassure him?<br /><br />She became aware that everyone was shooting her expectant glances. <em>Well, that’s nice. They all expect me to fix this, but I don’t see anyone jumping in with any ideas as to how!<br /></em><br />With a sigh, she stood and went to pour herself a glass of wine. Turning she stood in front of Jon, and gazed at him, lost in thought, not really aware of what she was doing. When he looked up their eyes locked and she saw her own pain and uncertainty reflected in his. She felt the tears building up and she blinked them away.<br /><br />Seeing the wetness in her eyes Jon sighed, uncrossed his legs and opened his arms.<br /><br />Accepting his invitation she sat on his lap and curled into him. “You know I love you, don’t you?” She asked him quietly.<br /><br />He nodded. “Yeah, I do, and I love you too.” He kissed her softly. The tension in the room eased.<br /><br /><br /><br />The show was excellent as usual, but Lindsay’s mind wasn’t really into it. She was still trying to figure out a solution to their problem. When she heard the opening strains of <em>Lie To Me</em> her head jerked up to look at Jon in horror. His eyes were closed as he sang into the mic. Shifting her gaze to Richie she raised her brows. He just shrugged. She loved the song and it was on her favorites list, but for him to pick it tonight seemed too much of a coincidence. <em> Oh my God! Does he really think I’m lying about how I feel? That I’m pretending?</em> If that was the case, she had a bigger job ahead of her than she thought!<br /><br /><br />When they arrived at the after party she still hadn’t figured out what to do. She also didn’t realize how much Jon had had to drink. She was returning from the bar with a drink when Chad stopped her.<br /><br />“Come on babe, dance with me.” There was a dance floor to the side and a D.J. was playing some decent tunes.<br /><br />She smiled, but shook her head. “Hey Chad. No thanks, I’m really tired tonight. I just want to sit and relax.” She took a step toward the table when he grabbed her arm to stop her.<br /><br />“Ah, come on Lindsay. Just because <strong>he’s</strong> in a foul mood, doesn’t mean you can’t have some fun.” His voice lowered. “I’ll show you a good time. You’ll like it, I promise.”<br /><br />Now she was a little uncomfortable. The feeling got worse when she saw, out of the corner of her eye, Jon get up from the table and start towards them. Shit! Now’s it’s really going to hit the fan!”<br /><br />“Chad, let go of my arm. Look, I’m sure you could, but…” She didn’t get any further<br /><br />“Get your hand off my woman before I remove it for you.” Jon demanded, slurring just slightly.<br /><br />“Hey man, I don’t see a ring on her finger, and the way you’ve been behaving lately, I figured she might be ready to spend some time with someone who’ll treat her right and show her a good time.” Chad retorted belligerently.<br /><br />“Oh get real! The only thing you want to show her is your bed!” Jon sneered.<br /><br />“Well, she might like a man young enough to do it, not just write about it.” Chad jeered.<br /><br />“STOP IT! BOTH OF YOU!” She yelled. Turning to Chad she frowned. “Look Chad, I’m flattered, really, but I love Jon. I’m not interested in ‘having a good time’ with anyone else. So why don’t you go try your luck with one of those pretty young things eyeing you from the bar over there.”<br /><br />“Are you sure?” He asked flicking a withering glance at Jon.<br /><br />“Yes, I’m sure.” She responded firmly.<br /><br />As he sighed and walked away she spun around and glared at Jon. “And you! I…I don’t even know what to say to you!” At the end of her rope, she took a step toward the table wanting to get away from him before she said something she’d regret. He grabbed her arm and roughly pulled her back.<br /><br />“Did you fuck him Lindsay?” He growled.<br /><br />“What? Of course not! Are you serious?!” She was astounded.<br /><br />“Did you?!” She gave her arm a shake. “Does he have a big cock? Does he make you scream louder than I do?” He continued.<br /><br />“Jon, you’re drunk. We’ll talk about this tomorrow.” She tried to pull away, but he wouldn’t let go.<br /><br />“TELL ME! Does he know how you like to be dominated? Does he know how you like your breasts caressed, and your nipples licked? Does he know how you like it deep and hard?” The anger in his face made her heart sink. “Can he make you come as easily as I can? Did he make you beg for it?” He ground out.<br /><br />Anger, fear, pain, all converged in her. She slapped him. “DAMN YOU JON!” Breaking his hold and bursting into tears she ran out of the bar.<br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 59</span><br /><br />Lindsay stood on the balcony of her room, oblivious to the cold air. She didn’t feel it. She didn’t feel anything really. She was numb. A knock at the door had her turning with a sigh. She knew it wasn’t Jon – there’d been no attempt to open the locked door. She had a pretty good idea who it was, but checked the peephole to be sure before opening the door.<br /><br />“Better be careful Rich or he’ll accuse me of sleeping with you too.” She warned him bitterly.<br /><br />He sighed as he entered the room. “He’s drunk.”<br /><br />“I know. It’s the only reason I’m still here.” She replied.<br /><br />“I’m glad you are. I was afraid you might have run off. No one would have blamed you if you had.” He sat down on the couch and urged her to sit too.<br /><br />“I thought about it.” She admitted. “But I promised myself when I agreed to give this relationship a try that I would give it everything I had. And that means not running away when things get tough. So I’ll stay and talk to him – when he’s sober, and then we’ll see.”<br /><br />Richie smiled in relief. “Good. If it’s any consolation, I think you shocked him half sober when you slapped him. He just kept saying ‘I can’t believe she did that’.”<br /><br />She snorted. “He’s lucky that’s all I did. My first impulse was to use my knee.”<br /><br />He winced and stood up. “I’ll be sure to tell him that – when he’s slept it off and can better appreciate your restraint. Well, I’ll let you get some rest. I just wanted to see how you were doing.”<br /><br />She smiled and walked him to the door. “Thanks Rich.” She paused. “Will you do me a favour? Keep him in your room tonight? I’ve had about as much of his drunken accusations as I can stomach tonight.”<br /><br />He nodded sympathetically. “I don’t think the boys would let him anywhere near you tonight anyway. Tico wanted to deck him. We actually had to hold him back.”<br /><br />She smiled. “I’ll have to remember to thank him. ‘Night Rich.”<br /><br />He hugged her. “’Night Lindsay.”<br /><br /><br /><br />Lindsay watched out the window as dawn lit the sky. She’d showered, but she hadn’t slept. Thankfully, they didn’t have to travel anywhere today – they were doing a second show tonight. She was wrapped in a robe sipping coffee when she heard his key in the door. Turning from the window she watched him enter the room.<br /><br />He looked like death warmed over and she hoped he was enjoying his hangover. She saw him look first towards the bedroom, and upon seeing the made up bed, glance around until he saw her. His expression was a mixture of relief, fear and pain. This was the first time she had ever seen him nervous. If she was honest with herself, there was a part of her that took some satisfaction in that. It also gave her hope that they could work through this.<br /><br />He blew out a breath. “Will you sit and hear me out?”<br /><br />She nodded and sat in one of the chairs flanking the couch and continued sipping her coffee. Jon paced for a few minutes then sat on the end of the couch nearest her, rested his elbows on his knees and raked a hand through his hair.<br /><br />“First of all I want to apologize. I should never have said those awful things to you. They were unfounded and you didn’t deserve it. I was drunk – I know that’s not an excuse, I just...” He paused. “I know nothing was going on with you and Chad. I know that you love me and I believe you would never intentionally hurt me. Dorothea blamed what happened on me never being around…not paying enough attention to her. I was determined that I would do better this time. But I went overboard and I know it.” He raised his head and looked her in the eye. “Lindsay, I love you, and I’m so sorry for the way I behaved, and if you will stay with me I promise it will never happen again. I just want to make you happy.”<br /><br />She looked at him for a long moment. “You hurt me Jon. It was more than just the horrible accusations you hurled at me. You didn’t trust me. I knew something was bothering you, but you didn’t even trust me enough to talk to me about it! It wasn’t that long ago that you were upset with me for not having faith in you, and now here you are doing the same thing…only worse because I hadn’t known you very long at that point. You keep saying that you love me, but you don’t trust me. How can this relationship work without trust? I understand why you’re a little leery, but if I’m supposed to have faith in you despite my past, then you have to have faith in me despite yours.” She took a sip of coffee. “The man I’ve been dealing with the last few days is not the man I fell in love with. I want that man back. This other man I don’t even like very much.”<br /><br />He nodded. “I know. I have no excuse. I didn’t even recognize myself sometimes.” He raised tear filled eyes to hers. “Will you give me another chance? I never meant to hurt you. Lindsay, I do love you, and despite recent behaviour, I <strong>do</strong> trust you. I trust you with my life, my heart, my children. I love you, I want you, I need you! I can’t imagine my life without you in it. I don’t want to.”<br /><br />Her own tears were running freely down her cheeks. “You have to promise me that the next time you’re worried about something, or you’re upset, or just not sure about something, you will talk to me about it. No more letting it fester and having it erupt like it did last night. You made me believe that we had something special. You made me believe that you thought I was special. You ripped my heart out last night Jon. I don’t ever want to feel like that again.” Her tears turned into sobs.<br /><br />He jumped up to lift her into his arms. Sitting again he cradled her on his lap rocking her gently. “Oh honey, I’m so sorry.”<br /><br />“Promise me Jon. <em>Never again</em>.” She sobbed.<br /><br />“I promise.” He replied, the tears he could no longer hold back leaving tracks down his face.<br /><br /><br />They sat like that for a long time, letting the healing begin. Finally, she raised her head and glanced at her watch, then at his face. “You need to get some sleep. You look like hell and you’ve got another show tonight.”<br /><br />He rubbed a hand over his face. “I didn’t sleep very well last night. The couch in Richie’s room is too narrow and he wouldn’t share his bed. Plus, I had a throbbing head and cheek.” He looked down at her and quickly added. “Not that I didn’t deserve it! And Richie tells me that I should be thankful that I wasn’t hurting worse.”<br /><br />He studied her face. “Did you get any sleep last night yourself?” She shook her head. He hesitated. “Will you come lay down with me? I just want to hold you.” She yawned widely and nodded. He smiled. “Just let me call Paul to cancel my interviews – or let Richie do them. And he can do sound check too.”<br /><br />Without letting her go he fished out his cell phone and dialed. “Hey man. No, she didn’t kill me.” Lindsay smiled. “I need to cancel the interviews today or Richie or the guys will have to do them without me. No she didn’t clobber me again.” She chuckled. “They’ll have to do sound check without me too. Yes, I’ll be there in time for the show. And let everyone know not to call me unless it’s an absolute emergency. We were both up all night and we need to get some sleep. Yes, I’m sure it’s safe. No, I don’t think she’s going to smother me in my sleep. Alright, just a sec.” He handed her the phone. “Paul wants to talk to you.”<br /><br />“Hi Paul.”<br /><br />“Hi Lindsay. Everything okay? Do you need anything? A whip maybe?” He asked.<br /><br />She laughed. “I’ll let you know when I’ve decided on his punishment. All I can think about right now is getting some sleep.”<br /><br />“Ok, get some rest.” He paused. “I’m glad you’re sticking around. See you later.”<br /><br />“See you Paul.” She closed the phone and handed it back to Jon.<br /><br />Laying it on the table he stood and carried her into the bedroom where he laid her down. Swiftly stripping off his clothes, her removed her robe and climbed in beside her, pulling the covers over them. Gathering her in his arms he raised her face until he could softly kiss her lips. “Thank you.” He murmured. She nodded and curled more closely into him laying her hand over his heart. Within minutes they were both sound asleep.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 60<br /></span><br />When they arrived at the arena, Jon paused at the door and took a deep breath.<br /><br />“Worried about running into Chad?” She asked.<br /><br />He snorted. “No.” He hesitated. “Tico. He was pretty pissed off at me last night.”<br /><br />She grinned. “Ooooh, you riled up the Cubano! I’d be worried too.” She grabbed his hand and tugged. “Come on , I’ll protect you – he likes me.”<br /><br />When the reached the dressing room door she knocked. “Female coming in.” She warned them before she opened the door.<br /><br />The guys looked up and smiled as she walked in. They were spread out around the room. Richie had an acoustic guitar in his lap. “Hey Linds.” They chorused. The smiles faded when Jon walked in behind her.<br /><br />She walked up to Tico and kissed him on the cheek. “Thank you.”<br /><br />He shrugged. “You’re family. We protect family – even from each other if one us is being a stupid asshole.” He glared in Jon’s direction.<br /><br />Standing back she watched how this group of ‘brothers’ dealt with internal conflict.<br /><br />Jon made eye contact, briefly, with each of them. “I want to apologize for my behaviour over the last few days, and particularly last night. I was way out of line. I’ve already apologized to Lindsay. She didn’t deserve any of it.” He looked at her. “I’m very happy to say that she’s agreed to stay and give me another chance.”<br /><br />There was silence for a minute, then one by one, they all nodded. “You know that’s more than you deserve.” David commented. Jon nodded.<br /><br />Tico caught his eye. “If you ever pull a stunt like that again, I <strong>will</strong> kick your ass.”<br /><br />Jon nodded again. “And I’ll deserve it.”<br /><br />Just then Obie stuck his head in the door. “Any word from J…oh good you’re here. We need the set list ASAP. Hey Lindsay.” He hesitated. “Everything okay? Or at least heading in the right direction?” She nodded. “Good. I was beginning to think that Jon had lost his mind completely, or had been possessed by some stupid, evil, mean, cruel demon.” And he was gone again.<br /><br />Jon shook his head and smiled wryly. “Don’t hold back Ob, tell me how you really feel.” Walking over to a table he picked up a piece of paper and a pen. Sitting down he started writing. “Any special requests tonight?”<br /><br />“Sorta gives new meaning to <em>Living on a Prayer</em> doesn’t it?” Hugh joked. They chuckled.<br /><br />“<em>Something for the Pain?</em> No wait, that would be if Lindsay were singing.” Tico commented. “<em>How about Born to Be My Baby</em>?”<br /><br />“<em>If That’s What it Takes</em>.” Richie supplied.<br /><br />“<em>I’d Die For You</em>.” Hugh added.<br /><br />“Definitely <em>Thank You For Loving Me</em>.” Richie put in.<br /><br />“I’m a <em>Schmuk, I Fucked Up and I’m Sorry</em>.” David contributed.<br /><br />Richie looked at him grinning. “How does that one go again?” He started plucking out chords, making an almost funereal sound. They all laughed.<br /><br />Tension eased, they all started their preparations for the show.<br /><br />“How did the interviews go?” Jon asked Richie.<br /><br />“Fine, they were disappointed that you weren’t there of course, but we just explained that you’d majorlly fucked up with your girlfriend and were desperately trying to get out of the doghouse.” He grinned. “They were all married. The men just nodded in understanding – one suggested flowers, another said jewelry. The women hoped you made it in time for the show and thought you should write her a love song – oh, and jewelry was <strong>definately</strong> a good idea.” He looked at Jon meaningfully.<br /><br />Jon stared at him in disbelief.<br /><br />Lindsay looked at Jon. “Did I mention that I’m partial to sapphires?” And she burst out laughing.<br /><br />The show went off without a hitch. She couldn’t help grinning when <em>Prayer</em> started and Hugh looked down at her and winked. And they did do <em>Thank You</em>. Both Jon and Lindsay had tears in their eyes by the end. The fans saw Jon’s and went nuts.<br /><br />Walking into the after party, Lindsay was a little nervous about running into Chad. But he seemed content to simply wave at her from the other side of the room. Relieved, she smiled and waved back.<br /><br />Finished eating, she headed for the bar to get another drink. “I can’t believe that you’re staying with him.” A voice spoke from behind her.<br /><br />Stiffening, she turned. “We talked it out. I love him. He loves me. You don’t throw that away because of one night.” She frowned at him. “Your behaviour was not exactly stellar either.”<br /><br />“What did I do?” He tried to act innocent.<br /><br />“Come on Chad. I may have been a little slow on the uptake, but I’m not stupid. You constantly tried to undermine my relationship with Jon. You knew he was jealous and you purposely did things to aggravate him. I just wished I’d noticed earlier. Maybe I could have prevented last night from happening.” She shook her head sadly. “I’ll just have to be more aware from now on. Now if you’ll excuse me I would like to join my friends.”<br /><br />Approaching the table she noticed Jon watching her. Meeting his eyes she raised a brow. He smiled and this time it reached his eyes. She reached the table just as the D.J. was putting on a new song. Hearing it, she set her drink down and held her hand out to him. “Come dance with me.” He didn’t hesitate.<br /><br />On the dance floor, in his arms, she smiled. “You really <strong>are</strong> on your best behaviour today.”<br /><br />He raised a brow. “What makes you say that?”<br /><br />“Because I know you don’t really like to dance, but you didn’t even hesitate.” She answered.<br /><br />He shrugged. “I like this song.” He grinned at her. “Besides, I’ve been trying to get my hands on you all day, and this was the first time you seemed receptive.”<br /><br />Smiling, she kissed him softly, leaned into him, laid her head on his shoulder and just absorbed the feel of his arms around her, his body next to hers and Big and Rich’s <em>Lost in This Moment</em> flowing around them.<br /><br />When the song ended, by unspoken agreement, they gathered their things, said goodnight to the guys and headed for their room.<br /><br />In their bedroom, he pulled her close, framed her face with his hands and just gazed at her for a long moment, stroking her bottom lip with the tip of his thumb. “God, how I love you!” He whispered fervently just before he lowered his head to replace his thumb with his tongue. Tracing her lips with the tip he inhaled her sigh as she opened for him and swept inside to taste her completely.<br /><br />Lost in the sensation of his tongue stroking hers she reached out and gripped his waist to anchor herself. Feeling the cloth of his shirt she pulled up until she could slide her hands underneath and caress his skin enjoying how his muscles tightened in response to her touch.<br /><br />Releasing her he stepped back and pulled his shirt over his head and threw it aside. Standing still he watched her face as she stroked the skin he had bared for her. The obvious pleasure showing there as much as the sensations her fingers evoked had his breath shortening and his pulse increasing. When she added lips and tongue to her assault, he closed his eyes, let his head fall back and groaned.<br /><br />Lifting her head from where she’d been teasing a hard male nipple she grinned. “Oh, you like that do you?”<br /><br />“Like I like breathing sugar.” He rasped out. Opening his eyes he looked down at her. Her breath caught at the desire she saw blazing there. “But now it’s my turn.” She gasped as her shirt was quickly drawn over her head and dropped to the floor. Her bra soon followed. Stepping closer, he gently held both her hands behind her back in one of his. With his free hand he caressed her from collarbone to waist over and over. Covering a breast, he kneaded firmly then teased the hard kernel at the peak, smiling as her back arched back giving him more access and pushing her breasts towards him, silently asking for more. Obliging, he cupped one breast raising the nipple towards his mouth. Bending his head he first licked then sucked her sensitive flesh.<br /><br />Pulling her hands free of his hold, she tangled her fingers in his hair and pulled him closer. “Mmmm…..yes, Jon…. More…..please!”<br /><br />“Oh you like that do you?” He repeated her words back to her, grinning as she gasped at the feel of his breath on her skin. Blowing lightly he increased the torture.<br /><br />“Jon! Please!” She moaned.<br /><br />Giving in to her plea went down on her breast in a slow tortuous suckle. She cried out. Feeling her legs start to buckle, he swept her up and carried her to the bed. Laying her down, he eased away from her to remove the rest of his clothes….and hers. Climbing back on the bed he carefully lowered himself on top of her, letting her feel his weight as he captured her mouth again.<br /><br />Wrapping her arms around him she stroked his back, kneading the taut muscles. Opening her legs she reached down with both hands to caress and squeeze his buttocks trying to urge him where she most wanted to feel him. He resisted.<br /><br />Lifting his head he murmured.” Not yet.” Raising up on his knees he sat back on his heels and looked at her lying flushed and open before him. Placing a hand on each of her knees he slowly caressed upwards. Holding her hip with one hand, with the other he teased her curls before lightly stroking her most sensitive flesh, then probing her gently. Feeling her wetness, he pressed first one, then two fingers deep inside her, massaged and watched her writhe.<br /><br />“Mmmmm….Jon, please….I need to feel you!” She panted.<br /><br />Glancing up he saw her watching him through slitted eyes, pleased with the hunger he saw there. Removing his fingers, he gripped her hips with both hands and lifted them onto his thighs. Sliding his hands up her back to help support her he groaned as she languidly arched her back more as she sat up.<br /><br />Bracing one hand on his shoulder she slid the other down his chest and over his abs until she could wrap her fingers around him and squeeze firmly. Hearing him groan and feeling his fingers spasm on her hips, she smiled and set out to torture him a little more. Looking down she watched him swell even more as her fingers played. Stroking from base to tip, she circled the top with her thumb, spreading the drop he couldn’t hold back. He moaned.<br /><br />“Sugar, enough…I need…” The breath was ripped from him on a ravaged moan as she raked her nails – very lightly – up his length and squeezed the tip firmly. His hips jerked in reflex.<br /><br />“What do you need?” She purred.<br /><br />“I need to be inside you.” He gasped. “Now!” Lifting her hips he moved her over him and she guided him home.<br /><br />They both groaned as she slid slowly down until she was fully impaled. Wrapping her arms around his shoulders she took possession of his mouth as she began to rock against him. As the sensations increased so did her speed. But it wasn’t enough.<br /><br />Wrenching her mouth from his she gasped. “Oh God….Jon…feels…so good…but….I ….need…more.”<br /><br />Sliding his hands up her back to her shoulders he gripped and tipped her upper body back. Feeling him penetrate even deeper at this angle she leaned back even further, crying out at the feel of him so high inside her.<br /><br />He would have chuckled, but he had no breath for it. He was holding on by a thread, but refused to let go until she did. Bending, he took a nipple into his mouth and suckled in time with the thrust of his hips. The twin sensations did it for her. He felt her spasm tight around him even before her scream rent the air. Pulling her upright again, he wrapped his arms tightly around her, grinding his hips against hers.<br /><br />“Oh God Lindsay!” He cried out as his own release swamped him.<br /><br />When he could breathe again, he lifted her gently off him, laid her down and curled around her.<br /><br />“I love you.” He murmured in her ear, kissing her temple.<br /><br />“I love you too.” She responded, turning her head to kiss him softly, before pulling his arm more snuggly around her waist, pressing back farther into him and drifting off to sleep.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2233992774788831133.post-90183864468601723262008-11-05T19:35:00.000-08:002008-11-05T19:44:23.458-08:00Chapter 55Entering the bar hand in hand they were immediately greeted by Paul.<br /><br />“Hi Lindsay. Mind if I steal the boss here for a few minutes? There’s a couple of people I need him to talk to.”<br /><br />“No problem. I’m going to go get a drink.” She turned to Jon. “Have you eaten?”<br /><br />He shook his head. “No, but the guys will order up a feast for us.”<br /><br />“Yeah, and we’ll grab a table.” David added.<br /><br />She was sitting on a stool waiting for the bartender when Ryan came up and leaned on the bar beside her.<br /><br />“Hi Lindsay.”<br /><br />“Hi Ryan.” She replied. She was soon surrounded by the rest of his band. Ryan made the introductions.<br /><br />“So Ryan tells us that you’re from Ontario.” Chad stated.<br /><br />She nodded “Yeah, about and hour and half drive southwest of Toronto.”<br /><br />“So tomorrow is like going home for you.” Chad noted. They were playing the Air Canada Centre the next night.<br /><br />“Yeah, and I think my whole family is coming. My oldest nephew is a drummer in a band so Jon and Tico have offered to give him the full VIP tour.” She smiled.<br /><br />“Well, if you need anything from us, just let me know.” He offered.<br /><br />“Thanks, I may at least bring them around to me you if you don’t mind. I know at least a couple of them have seen you in concert a couple times, and would love to meet you.”<br /><br />“Sure, no problem babe.” He answered.<br /><br />They chatted for a while longer, about home, being on tour, music, then seeing Richie waving at her she grabbed her beer and slid off the stool. “Looks like my dinner has arrived. Nice to meet you guys. I’ll see you all later I guess.”<br /><br />As she walked away Ryan looked at Chad. He recognized the look in his frontman’s eyes. “Hey man, she’s Bon Jovi’s woman.” He warned.<br /><br />As they watched, Jon walked up to join Lindsay at the table, kissing her as he sat down.<br /><br />“Yeah, but there’s no ring on her finger, so until she tells me otherwise, she’s fair game.” Chad declared.<br /><br />Sitting down beside Lindsay, Jon reached for an onion ring. “I see you met Chad and the guys.”<br /><br />“Yeah, they told me I could bring my family by to meet them tomorrow. They seem like nice guys.” She told him. He just grunted and reached for the nachos.<br /><br />“Oh yeah, I’d almost forgot about the invasion of the Chandlers tomorrow.” Richie changed the subject. And the discussion turned to the various member’s of Lindsay’s family that they would meet the next day.<br /><br />Sampling from the various plates spread over the table she turned to Jon. “You’re awful quiet. Something wrong?”<br /><br />He shook his head. “Just a little tired I guess.”<br /><br />“Well with the way you were running around the stage tonight, I’m not surprised.” She leaned in close. “Not too tired, I hope.” She placed her hand on his thigh and squeezed.<br /><br />He grinned. “Sugar, I’m never <strong>that</strong> tired. What do you say we hurry up and eat and get out of here?”<br /><br />“I’d say you read my mind.” She grinned back at him.<br /><br />Ten minutes later they said goodnight to the guys and headed up to their room. Walking into the sitting room Lindsay dropped her purse on a table and started to take off her coat. Taking it from her he threw it on a chair, added his own, turned and swept her off her feet – literally. Ignoring her squeal of surprise he carried her into the bedroom and dropped her on the bed.<br /><br />Standing beside the bed, eyes locked with hers, he started stripping off his clothes. Lips curving, she settled back to enjoy the show. Watching her watch him, he slowed down. Easing his now unbuttoned shirt off his shoulder he let it drop to the floor. Toeing off his boots he kicked them out of the way and reached for the button on his jeans. Slowly lowering the zipper he watched her eyes follow the movement. Pushing the denim over his hips and down his legs he stepped out of his jeans, and stood for a moment and let her look at him.<br /><br />“Do I meet with your approval sugar?” He asked huskily.<br /><br />“Mmmm. You always have darling. Only one thing would make it better.” She answered.<br /><br />“What?”<br /><br />“If you would come closer so that I can touch you.” She said softly.<br /><br />Crawling onto the bed he straddled her waist, careful not to put all of his weight on her, just enough to pin her in place. Reaching out he slowly removed her halter top, threw it aside, and just looked at her for several minutes.<br /><br />She could feel her skin heating under his gaze and her breasts swelling and firming, her nipples hardening. When she tried to touch him he shook his head and pinned her hands under his knees.<br /><br />“Does that hurt?” He asked, not wanting to hurt her, just wanting her immobile and his hands free. She shook her head.<br /><br />Reaching out with both hands he ran his fingertips lightly from her collarbone to her waist, watching the gooseflesh appear on her skin in his wake. “Are you cold?” He asked with a smile, as though he didn’t know what caused her reaction.<br /><br />“No. I’m hot.” She answered closing her eyes to better focus on the sensations his hands were sending through her body.<br /><br />He chuckled. “That you are sugar, that you are.”<br /><br />He repeated his torture over and over, until she stifled a frustrated scream. “What’s the matter sugar? Don’t you like that?”<br /><br />“Mmmm, it’s wonderful, but I need more.” She replied.<br /><br />With a little half smile he cupped her breasts and circled the hard peaks with his thumbs….. over and over as her back arched trying to push her flesh more firmly into his hands. Understanding her unspoken request he obliged, tightening his grip and kneading for several minutes before backing off and squeezing her nipples sharply between thumb and forefinger. She cried out in pleasure.<br /><br />Releasing her hands he moved off her to remove the rest of her clothing. When he had rendered her naked, he straddled her again – this time at her knees. Stroking her thighs lightly from knees to hips and back again he watched the muscles tighten and twitch. When she tried to sit up he placed a hand on her belly, holding her down. She growled in frustration.<br /><br />Looking up at the sound he raised his brows. She glowered at him through slitted eyes. “I want to touch you too.”<br /><br />“Later.” Was his only response as he resumed his stroking. She tried to buck him off, but only succeeded in making him chuckle.<br /><br />Her skin felt like it was on fire and only his touch could soothe it. He was driving her insane. If he didn’t end the torture soon she was going to go up in flames.<br /><br />Finally relenting he rose up, parted her legs and knelt in between, sitting back on his heels and just looked at her lying open before him. One fingertip nuzzled through her curls, stroking her sensitive bud. Her legs flexed involuntarily, opening her even more for his touch, her hips arching, asking for more.<br /><br />“Jon! Please!” She panted.<br /><br />“Too much?” He teased.<br /><br />“Not enough!”<br /><br />Leaning forward he braced his hands on either side of her shoulders. Bending he touched his lips to hers making sure that his chest didn’t touch hers. Licking and sucking he teased her until in frustration she bit him. Chuckling he gave in and captured her mouth thrusting deeply with his tongue.<br /><br />Hands free and his body within reach she took full advantage. Stroking his back from shoulders to hips, she slid her hands around and stroked back up his chest, curling her fingers through his fur and teasing his nipples.<br /><br />Groaning, he lowered himself on top of her bracing his torso on his elbows. Releasing her mouth he moved lower, licking her breasts, then blowing on them lightly before taking the tips in his mouth and suckling.<br /><br />Her hips were undulating against his trying to urge him where she wanted him most. “Jon, please! You’re killing me!” She begged.<br /><br />“What is it you want sugar?” He teased.<br /><br />“I need you! I need to feel you inside me!” She sobbed.<br /><br />“Like this?” He filled her in one quick stroke and then held still.<br /><br />She gasped at his sudden entry, “Mmmm Yes!” Frustrated when he didn’t move and unable to help herself, her hips ground against him.<br /><br />Raising his head he watched her. Her head was thrown back, eyes closed, the pleasure she felt at the feel of him inside her clearly visible on her face. Suddenly, she went rigid and cried out. He could feel the spasms of her release gripping him. Unable to remain motionless, he started to move…slowly at first in deference to her recent climax. He watched the expression on her face change from ecstasy to surprise to intense passion.<br /><br />“Oh God! Jon! Mmmmm yes! I need more!” Tossing her head from side to side she strained to reach the peak.<br /><br />He slowed his rhythm. He wanted to see how high he could take her, although he wasn’t sure how much more he could take himself. His heart was pounding and he was gasping for breath.<br /><br />“Noooooo!” She wailed. Raising her legs she wrapped them tightly around his waist pulling him deeper into her.<br /><br />“God Lindsay! I’m not sure who’s killing who here!” He rasped.<br /><br />Forcing her eyes open she locked them with his. The hunger and desperation he saw there almost did him in. When she raked her nails down his back he groaned and was lost. Thrusting deeper, harder he sent her over the edge, and watched her eyes go blank with the force of her pleasure.<br /><br />Shutting his eyes, he lowered himself to lie fully upon her and with his next thrust found his own piece of heaven.<br /><br />Rolling off her, he gathered her close. She looked up at him in wonder, her heart still pounding. Raising one still trembling hand she stroked his face. “God how I love you! What you make me feel!” She shivered “I don’t ever want to lose that.”<br /><br />“I love you too. And you’re not going to lose me.” He hugged her closer and kissed her gently. As she relaxed against him and drifted off to sleep he pressed his lips to her forehead. “You’re MINE!”<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 56</span><br /><br /><br />She woke the next morning to the feel of Jon’s mouth nuzzling her neck, then her lips. When she murmured approvingly he teased her mouth open and kissed her thoroughly. Then he stopped and pulled away.<br /><br />“Come on honey, shake a leg, we’ve got a plane to catch!” He grinned at her disgruntled look.<br /><br />Narrowing her eyes at him, she reached out and grabbed a handful of his shirt – he was already dressed – and yanked him close. Kissing him she ran a hand down the front of his pants and stroked him until she could feel him getting hard against her hand. He groaned. Pushing him back she climbed out of bed and headed for the bathroom. At the door she looked back to find him watching her in disbelief.<br /><br />“The next time you wake me like that you better be prepared to finish what you start or reap the consequences!” She turned and headed for the shower.<br /><br />Boarding the plane she took a few minutes to explore. Curious she opened a door at the back and discovered it was a bedroom. Looking back at Jon who had been watching her, she raised a brow.<br /><br />He shook his head. “Flight’s too short.” He chuckled at her look of disappointment.<br /><br />Arriving in Toronto, they stopped at the hotel for a quick lunch then headed to the arena for sound check. They had dropped off their coats in the dressing room and were heading towards the stage when a young girl’s voice echoed down the hallway.<br /><br />“JON!”<br /><br />He turned and barely had time to brace himself before the girl plowed into him, hugging his waist. “Hi there sweetie.” The guys stood there stunned until they realized that Lindsay was just shaking her head.<br /><br />“A relative of yours?” Richie asked.<br /><br />She nodded. “My niece. Alexis, let him go now. He has to go to work.” She gently pulled the girl away.<br /><br />“Can I watch?” Alexis asked.<br /><br />“Sure. You can sit with me.” Her aunt replied.<br /><br />The rest of Lindsay’s family had caught up with them now. Lindsay made the introductions and within minutes Tico took Kevin off for a VIP tour of the stage set up…particularly his drum kit.<br /><br />Lindsay led the rest of them around to the seats in front of the stage so that they could all watch.<br /><br />Looking around Lindsay checked on her various family members. Her Dad and Nick were in deep conversation with Obie as he explained the sound board and what he was doing, Kevin was on stage with Tico who was letting him try out his kit, Craig was checking out Richie’s various guitars under Al’s eagle eye, and the girls were all sitting in chairs in front of the stage listening and watching.<br /><br />A movement in the doorway had her looking that way. Smiling, she waved as Nickelback came in and joined them while they were waiting for their turn. Lindsay introduced the girls to them and pointed out the rest of her family. When Craig saw them he immediately rushed down to meet them.<br /><br />On the stage Richie watched the laughing group in the seats in front of them. Glancing at Jon he sighed. Walking over to him he murmured. “Relax man, they’re just talking.”<br /><br />“I know.” Came the curt reply. He never took his eyes off the scene before him. “Hey Ob! You got what you need?” He called out. Obie gave the thumbs up.<br /><br />Handing their guitars to the techs Jon and Richie joined the others and left the stage. Lindsay gathered up her family, waved at Nickelback and herded them out into the hallway and down to the dressing room where the guys were waiting for them.<br /><br />Walking in the room she saw Jon sitting in a chair and the others spread around the room. Sensing something was wrong she went to stand behind his chair and watched her family settle in the room chatting with various band members. Putting her hands on his shoulders she could feel how tense he was. Massaging gently, she leaned down to murmur in his ear. “What’s wrong?”<br /><br />Reaching up to pat her hand he shook his head. “Nothing.”<br /><br />She frowned. “Jon...”<br /><br />Just then Alexis came up and sat on Jon’s lap. “That was cool, but when’s the real show?”<br /><br />He smiled. “It starts about 7:30, but we don’t go on stage until about 9.”<br /><br />She sighed. “So what do you do until then?”<br /><br />“Well, this is when we usually do some interviews, and just relax until it’s time to get ready for the show.” He answered.<br /><br />“Do you have interviews today?” she asked.<br /><br />He nodded. “Yeah, in a little while.”<br /><br />“Can I watch?”<br /><br />“Lex, I don’t think that’s...” Lindsay began.<br /><br />Jon interrupted. “Sure you can, but you have to be very quiet.”<br /><br />In between interviews, the guys patiently answered the continuous stream of questions the Chandler’s seemed to have. When Lindsay apologized they just smiled and told her relax.<br /><br />When it got close to show time, the kids started to get anxious.<br /><br />“Come on, let’s go take our seats before someone else does.” Craig urged.<br /><br />“Relax Craig, security won’t let anyone take our seats.” Lindsay assured him. When the others joined in she gave in. “Okay, let’s go.” She laughed as she watched them all but run out the door.<br /><br />“Where are you going?” Jon caught her hand.<br /><br />“To watch the show with my family.” She replied. “I’ll come back before you go on. After all I’ll need to do a costume check.” She winked at David who flipped her off.<br /><br />“By the way Linds. There’s a lock on the bathroom door here.” David informed her. “Just thought you might want to know.”<br /><br />It was her turn to flip him off. Red faced she turned to catch up with her family.<br /><br /><br />During the break she entered the room to find them all dressed and going through their warm up routines.<br /><br />“Where’s everyone else?” Tico asked.<br /><br />“They’re still out there saving the seats.” Lindsay laughed. “I couldn’t convince them that they would be safe. Kevin is prowling around the stage. He said you told him he could watch from up there.”<br /><br />Tico nodded. “Yeah. I got a spot for him where he can see things from my perspective.”<br /><br />“You mean he gets to look at Jon’s ass all night.” Hugh said. They all laughed.<br /><br />“Hey, that’s mine!” Lindsay reminded them, grabbing it to illustrate her point.<br /><br />Laughing, Jon hugged her. “You can have it anytime you want sugar.” He murmured in her ear before kissing her.<br /><br />Relieved that he seemed relaxed again, she walked to the stage door with them, wished them luck and headed for her seat.<br /><br />The show was amazing as usual and Lindsay’s family was impressed – even her parents. While the music wasn’t their style they could appreciate the showmanship and the effort it took. Her sisters-in-law just watched Jon in awe and shot envious looks in Lindsay’s direction. She just laughed. The rest just rocked out.<br /><br />Stopping backstage briefly she let Jon know that she was heading back to the hotel with her family. The after party was being held in the bar there. “We’ll meet you there.”<br /><br />He frowned. “Why don’t you wait here?”<br /><br />“The kids are too impatient. There’s more to keep them occupied at the hotel.” She replied. Stepping close and sliding one hand into his sweaty hair, she pulled him down for a deep kiss. “Don’t be too long.”<br /><br /><br />Back at the bar, the kids immediately headed for the pool tables while the adults headed for the bar. A buffet would be set up shortly, but the hotel was waiting for the band to arrive. Lindsay introduced everyone to Paul and the other people from BJM that were there. About twenty minutes later, Chad and the guys came in.<br /><br />“Hey Lindsay.” Chad greeted her as he joined her at the bar.<br /><br />“Hi Chad. That was a great show.” She complimented him.<br /><br />“Thanks. I’m glad you enjoyed it.” He replied.<br /><br />“Hey Chad how about a game?” Ryan suggested.<br /><br />“In a minute.” Chad answered.<br /><br />Lindsay smiled. “If you want to play you better grab a table now before my nephews take over.” She advised.<br /><br />Walking over with them she watched the games going on for awhile until a commotion at the door told her that Jon and the guys had arrived. Looking at her watch she smiled.<br /><br />“That was fast.” She commented as she reached them, sliding her arm around Jon’s waist. He hugged her close to his side.<br /><br />“For once we didn’t have to wait for Jon. He was the first one ready.” David responded. “I guess being with us in the bathroom just wasn’t the same.”<br /><br />Closing her eyes she hid her face in Jon’s shirt. He just laughed and looked at David. “You’re right about that man….not even close”<br /><br />The food was out and everyone settled in to eat. Shortly after, her family said their thank yous and goodbyes and headed for home.<br /><br />After seeing them off Lindsay and Jon headed back into the bar where Richie challenged Jon to a game of pool.<br /><br />Lindsay was standing to the side watching and laughing at Richie’s antics trying to distract Jon, when Chad joined her.<br /><br />“You’re family gone?” He asked.<br /><br />“Yeah. I wanted to thank you for being so patient with them. And the kids really appreciated the autographs and pictures. They could hardly wait to get home and tell their friends all about their day of hanging out with rockstars!” she laughed.<br /><br />“No problem. I was glad to do it.” He smiled at her.<br /><br />“Hey honey, would you mind getting me a drink?” Jon called.<br /><br />“Sure. Richie you want one too?” She asked.<br /><br />“Please.” He nodded.<br /><br />All three men watched her walk away. Jon turned to Chad.<br /><br />“I see you’re getting pretty chummy with Lindsay.” He commented.<br /><br />Chad shrugged. “Just talking. She’s from home. Gives us common ground. That’s a hell of a woman you’ve got there.”<br /><br />Jon nodded. “I know. Better than you.”<br /><br />The two men stared at each other for a long moment.<br /><br />“Here.” Lindsay handed Richie his drink and approaching Jon handed him his.<br /><br />“Well, I think I’ll see if there’s any food left.” Chad stated and wandered off.<br /><br />Turning to Jon she raised a brow at him. “What was that all about?”<br /><br />“What? Nothing.” He replied.<br /><br />“Oh come on, you could practically smell the testosterone in the air.” She said dryly.<br /><br />“Really, it was nothing.” He kissed her lightly and turned back to the table.<br /><br />She looked at Richie for an explanation. He just shook his head and rolled his eyes. “Frontmen.” Was his only comment.<br /><br />The game finished, Jon laid his arm across her shoulders. “Ready to go?”<br /><br />Laying her head on his shoulder she nodded. Pausing to say goodnight to everyone, they headed upstairs to their room.<br /><br />His phone rang as the door shut behind them. Sighing he answered it. Understanding from his side of the conversation that it was some scheduling issue Lindsay headed for the bedroom. Coming out of the bathroom after getting ready for bed she found Jon lying naked on the bed, the covers pulled down to the foot.<br /><br />“Don’t you think it’s a little cool to sleep like that?” She teased.<br /><br />He grinned at her. “I figured you’d warm me.”<br /><br />“Oh you did, did you?” She climbed on the bed beside him.<br /><br />Reaching out he quickly divested her of her nightgown and dropped it over the side of the bed. Gathering her in his arms he rolled her beneath him.<br /><br />Wrapping her arms around his neck she opened her mouth to his questing tongue. Sighing in appreciation she tangled hers with his as they tasted each other.<br /><br />Raising up on one elbow he set his other hand to roaming her body. Cupping one breast he kneaded gently and tweaked her nipple. Releasing her mouth he moved to ear and softly sucked on her earlobe. She shivered. Sliding his mouth down to her neck he continued sucking.<br /><br />Running her hands up and down his back she lightly raked him with her nails. Chuckling he moved down her body, pausing to explore her breasts with his lips and tongue. Taking her hard nipples into his mouth he raked them with his teeth before soothing them with his tongue, moving back and forth between them.<br /><br />Tangling her hands in his hair she pulled him against her and arched her back, pressing her breast more firmly against him. “Please” She murmured.<br /><br />Obliging, he took first one than the other deeper in his mouth and suckled them – hard. She cried out at the pleasure that was shooting through her with every pull of his mouth.<br /><br />Lifting his head slightly he licked a path down over her belly, teasing her navel until he reached the juncture of her thighs. Easing her legs apart he settled between them and stroked her first with his fingers, then with his tongue.<br /><br />Gasping for breath, she writhed beneath him, her hips arching towards him begging for more.<br /><br />“Mmmm, yes,…. oh God Jon,….yes, right there…mmm.mm….more!”<br /><br />Gripping her hips with both hands he held her still as he penetrated her with his tongue, delving deep inside her.<br /><br />She moaned, her head thrashing from side to side. Biting her lip her whole body shuddered at his ministrations. Grabbing his shoulders she pulled.<br /><br />“Jon, please, I want to touch you.” She gasped.<br /><br />Raising his head slightly he murmured. “No” And went back to work. Just before she reached the peak he stopped.<br /><br />Groaning in frustration she opened her eyes to look at him. “Now you stop?!” She growled in disbelief.<br /><br />Chuckling he slid his body slowly up hers, never breaking contact. When they were chest to chest, he moved his sideways back and forth abrading her sensitive nipples with his chest hair.<br /><br />“Jon you’re killing me!” Arching her back she groaned.<br /><br />“But what a way to go, sugar.” He smiled.<br /><br />“You’re going to be going first if you don’t give me what I need!” she threatened.<br /><br />He laughed. “And just what is it that you need sweetheart?” He nibbled on her ear as his hips slowly rocked teasing her.<br /><br />“Mmmm, that…that’s what I need…..only…inside me….deep inside me.” Gripping his head with both hands she forced him to look her in the eye. “Now!” She growled.<br /><br />Grinning he swooped down to capture her mouth again and gave her what she wanted. Pumping her slowly he savoured the feel of her tight around him.<br /><br />“God sugar you feel good.” He groaned.<br /><br />In response she squeezed him internally in rhythm with his thrusts. Moaning, he moved faster. Feeling her tense beneath him he thrust harder, deeper, driving into her, pushing her over the edge. Her screams echoing around them, he collapsed on her, shuddering with his own pleasure.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 57</span><br /><br />The next few days were an exercise in frustration and aggravation for Lindsay. Jon’s moods were up and down like a yo-yo and unpredictable. She knew that something was bothering him, but when she asked, he kept saying he was fine. She pretty much decided that if this is what he was like on the road, she’d just as soon stay home.<br /><br />Even the tenor of his love making had changed. While he still doled out pleasure unstintingly, he wouldn’t let her return the favour. He wasn’t rough, but he was more intense and, well, possessive was the only way she could describe it. Like he was continually staking his claim.<br /><br />One morning she was getting out of the shower when she caught a glimpse of her reflection in the mirror.<br /><br />“What the hell?” She exclaimed, leaning closer to see more clearly. She had a ring of love bites around her collarbone like a necklace. “Dammit Jon!” she yelled.<br /><br />He appeared in the doorway. “That’s the matter?”<br /><br />She turned to face him so that he could see his handiwork.<br /><br />He smirked.<br /><br />She glared.<br /><br />“What are you so mad about? That I did it or that you didn’t feel me doing it?” He laughed.<br /><br />“So you admit that you did it on purpose?” She asked in disbelief.<br /><br />He shrugged. “Well, the first two were accidents, but then I kind of liked the way they looked, so I kept going.”<br /><br />Pushing past him she stomped over to her suitcase and started rummaging.<br /><br />“What are you looking for?” He asked.<br /><br />“To see if I brought a turtleneck.” She replied curtly.<br /><br />“What? And hide my artwork?” He grinned and raised his hands in reflex to catch the shoe she threw at him.<br /><br /><br />Meeting up with the rest of the guys in the lobby she didn’t bother to hide her feelings. Holding her coat closed around her neck and stalking past them without a word, she climbed into the van. Gazing from her glare to Jon’s smirk, Richie sighed.<br /><br />“What’d you do this time bro?” He asked.<br /><br />Jon just grinned and climbed into the van.<br /><br />When they arrived at the arena, Lindsay headed straight for their dressing room, threw her coat down and waited for the comments – she hadn’t packed a turtleneck, she hadn’t thought she’d need one.<br /><br />Richie looked at her, caught Jon’s eye and just shook his head. Jon shrugged.<br /><br />“Nice necklace Linds.” David commented.<br /><br />She gave him the finger.<br /><br />“Ah come on honey, don’t be mad. It’s not that bad.” Jon tried to hug her, but she pushed him away.<br /><br />“Don’t touch me!” She grouched and plopped into a chair.<br /><br />“What’s so bad about it?” He asked “I would have thought you’d have been flattered that you drove me to such a peak of passion.”<br /><br />She glared at him. “It’s one thing if it happens during a ‘peak of passion’ as you call it. But it’s something entirely different if IT’S DONE ON PURPOSE! I feel branded, like an animal!” He looked surprised.<br /><br />She stayed in the dressing room until show time. She didn’t want anyone to see her. But by the time they took the stage, she had calmed down and David and Richie had managed to tease her into a better mood. Not about to deny herself the pleasure of watching them in action she took her usual spot in front of the stage.<br /><br />Trying to get back in her good books, Jon came to her side often, shaking his ass at her, smiling, winking, anything he could think of to get her to smile at him. They played several off her favorites list, and although it was difficult, she kept a straight face, just shaking her head at his antics, not ready to let him off the hook so easily.<br /><br />The clincher came though when he looked at her, sighed, and called the guys into a huddle. When they broke he walked back to the mike and she heard the opening of <em>You Had Me From Hello</em>. She sighed to herself. She knew she was in trouble. She really couldn’t stay mad at him long, particularly when he sang love songs like that one, which happened to be one of her favorites. Watching him, hearing the lyrics that always tugged on her heart strings, seeing the look in his eyes when they locked with hers, she felt the last of her anger drain away. As the last note echoed he looked at her and raised his brows. Unable to help herself she smiled at him. His answering smile was a full wattage one that had the girls behind her commenting. “I wish he’d smile at me like that!”<br /><br />When he came off the stage and saw her he grinned. She sighed in exasperation.<br /><br />“Now I know why it’s so hard to have a relationship with a singer/songwriter.” She grouched.<br /><br />“Why?” He laughed.<br /><br />“Because it’s too easy for them to get out of the doghouse. They just pull out a song like that, my heart melts, and I can’t stay angry.” She replied.<br /><br />“Lucky me.” He pulled her close and kissed her thoroughly. “I am sorry you know.”<br /><br />She looked at him for a moment. “No you’re, not. But that’s okay, just remember, payback’s a bitch. It may take awhile, but I will get even.”<br /><br />He laughed. “I’m sure you will sugar.”<br /><br />Arriving at the after party Lindsay headed for the bar and once again was joined by Chad.<br /><br />“Hi Lindsay, I haven’t seen you all day. You been hiding?” He greeted her.<br /><br />“Hi Chad. Yeah, sort of. I’ve was in the dressing room until they went on stage.” She answered, turning to face him.<br /><br />He immediately noticed her ‘necklace’. She noticed where he was looking.<br /><br />“Don’t say a word.” She ordered.<br /><br />He raised his hands up, palm out in a defensive gesture. “I wouldn’t dream of it babe.”<br /><br />Just then Jon joined them. The two men looked at each other. Chad smiled wryly. Jon smirked.<br /><br />Watching the by-play between the two, Lindsay shook her head in disgust. “Men!” Grabbing her beer she went to join Richie and the others at a table.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2233992774788831133.post-50382196987600325462008-11-05T19:29:00.000-08:002008-11-05T19:35:44.566-08:00Chapter52Arriving at the arena, Jack dropped Lindsay off at the back entrance. There was a security guard posted there. “I’ll go park the car. Fred there can show you the way.”<br /><br />“Thanks Jack.” Blowing out an excited breath, she headed for the door. It had been four weeks since she’d seen Jon – since Valentine’s Day. Smiling at the memory she checked her ears to make sure that the sapphire and diamond studs were still there. She’d worn them everyday since Jon had finally gotten around to giving them to her – the next morning.<br /><br />Reaching the door she found her way blocked by the security guard. “Sorry this isn’t a public entrance.”<br /><br />She smiled. “I know. I’m Lindsay Chandler. Jack told me use this door.”<br /><br />The bruiser didn’t look impressed. “I don’t care what Jack told you. No one gets in this door except the band and the crew.”<br /><br />Sighing in frustration she searched for some way to get through to him. Obviously he either hadn’t heard of her or didn’t believe her. Hearing his walkie-talkie squawk provided a solution.<br /><br />“Look, if you just call Obie or Rew, or Paul they’ll tell you it’s okay to let me in.” She urged him.<br /><br />“Yeah, right.” He all but sneered at her.<br /><br />She was ready scream and let her temper fly – or call Jon, when the door opened and Rew stuck his head out.<br /><br />“Hey Fred, any sign of Jack? Jon’s on the warpath, and….Lindsay! There you are!” Rew exclaimed in relief.<br /><br />“Hi Rew. I’ve been trying to get in for the last 5 minutes, but Fred here wouldn’t believe me.” She threw him an aggravated look.<br /><br />“I’m sorry Lindsay, I guess we didn’t make sure that everyone knew you were coming.” Rew apologized. “Here, this will help.” He handed her a VIP pass on a chain.<br /><br />Slipping it over her head she followed him inside and down the hallway, smiling and nodding at the people they passed. One in particular had her turning to watch him as they stopped in front of a closed door. Rew knocked.<br /><br />“Hey! Was that…” She was interrupted when Richie opened the door and saw her.<br /><br />“Thank God!” He said with feeling, opening the door wide for her to enter. “Thanks Rew.”<br /><br />Lindsay swept a glance around the room. David, Tico and Hugh were sprawled on various pieces of furniture, looking towards the door with hopeful looks that changed to relief when they saw her. Jon was obviously pacing.<br /><br />“Hi guys!” She began, but was cut off.<br /><br />“You’re late.” Jon interrupted. His eyes were devouring her as he walked towards her.<br /><br />“I’m sorry the plane was late.” Was all she got out before she found her arm grasped in a gentle, but unbreakable grip and was hustled through a door at the back of the room.<br /><br />Turning to face him as he closed the door, she barely registered that she was in a bathroom. “Jon, what the…..” Once again she was cut off. This time by his mouth coming down hard on hers as he pushed her up against the wall.<br /><br />Pinned between the hard wall and his equally hard body it was impossible for her to miss his physical state. His heart was pounding, his breathing was laboured and his erection was already hard and pressing into her soft belly.<br /><br />Overwhelmed at first by the speed and intensity of his assault, the feel of his hands caressing her almost roughly and his tongue stabbing her mouth, added to her four weeks deprivation quickly had her in the same state. Kissing him back with equal abandon she pushed her hands in between to reach the buttons on his shirt. Frustrated at her inability to undo them with the limited space available, she gripped two handfuls of shirt and jerked, sending buttons flying in all directions. Satisfied, she set her hands to his chest, raking her nails lightly down until she was stopped by the waistband of his jeans. He groaned in response. Ripping open the button and carefully pulling down the zipper, she pushed the offending denim over his hips and closed her hand around him, stroking and squeezing rhythmically.<br /><br />Hips moving in sync with her hand, he quickly opened her jeans and peeled them off, her panties with them, lifting her to free her feet. Grasping her teasing hand he pulled it away and lifted her again. Wrapping her legs around his waist he reached down to check that she was ready for him. Feeling her hot moistness he quickly penetrated her, driving in until he was buried to the hilt, her moans vibrating in her throat.<br /><br />Bracing her against the wall, he reached up with one hand to undo her halter top and pulled it down to her waist. Tearing his mouth from hers, he bent and drew one hard peak into his mouth, gently biting the tip before suckling hard. He raised his head only to move to her other breast to repeat the torture, all while his hips thrust hard against hers.<br /><br />When her cries rose in volume he recaptured her mouth, not wanting everyone in the other room to hear. They all knew what was happening, but he didn’t want Lindsay any more embarrassed than she already would be.<br /><br />Tightening her legs around his waist Lindsay just held on and absorbed his thrusts, each one driving her higher and higher. She tried to free her mouth to take a deep breath, but he wouldn’t release her. Suddenly she was there and she went rigid and spasmed tightly around him. He swallowed her scream. Thrusting even deeper inside her, he groaned and went still as he found his own release. <br /><br />Finally lifting his lips from hers he rested his forehead against the wall as they panted and waited for the world to stop spinning.<br /><br />Hugging him, she tangled her fingers in his hair. “Nice to see you too honey.” She panted.<br /><br />He chuckled breathlessly. Inhaling deeply he straightened and let her slide down until her feet touched the floor. Steadying her, making sure she could stand before he let her go, he reached down to pull up his pants.<br /><br />“Sorry for attacking you as soon as you walked through the door.” He grinned a little sheepishly. “I guess I missed you even more than I thought. Plus, you look good enough to eat.” He leered at her as she retied her top, cleaned herself up and slid back into her jeans.<br /><br />Looking in the mirror she shook her head. “When does your makeup crew get here?” Her hair actually looked fine – it hadn’t been touched – but her makeup was a mess.<br /><br />He laughed. “They’re probably waiting for me now.” Pulling her back into his arms he kissed her lightly. “You look beautiful.”<br /><br />“That’s just the afterglow talking. I look a mess.” She grimaced.<br /><br />Linking their hands he headed for the door. Suddenly she stopped, remembering who was on the other side of it.<br /><br />She slanted a look at Jon. “You know we’re never going to hear the end of this.”<br /><br />He grimaced. “Yeah, I know. The best way to deal with them is to just ignore them. If you don’t react, they’ll give up.” <em>Eventually</em>.<br /><br />Taking a deep breath she nodded and followed him into line of fire.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 53</span><br /><br />Sitting on Jon’s lap, her head resting on his shoulder, his arms holding her loosely, she let the conversation flow around her not really paying any attention. She was still recovering from their intense interlude in the bathroom. Aside from a few knowing grins and winks as they took in her flushed face and swollen lips, the guys had been surprisingly restrained. The only comment came from Richie who looked at Jon and murmured. “Feel better now?” She wasn’t fooled though. She figured they were just saving it up for later.<br /><br />She was brought back to awareness when Obie came in to talk to Jon. Their technical discussion meant nothing to her and she really wasn’t paying attention until she heard Jon’s comment.<br /><br />“Okay, I’ll talk to Chad about it.”<br /><br />Remembering who she thought she saw in the hallway she sat up and looked at Jon. “<strong>Was</strong> that Chad Kroeger I saw earlier?” He nodded. “You didn’t tell me Nickelback was playing with you!”<br /><br />“You like them?” Tico asked.<br /><br />She nodded enthusiastically. “I love them! I always thought they’d be great in concert, but I never had the opportunity to see them. This is going to be great!”<br /><br />She started to sing.<br /><br /><br /><em>I’m gonna trade this life<br />For fortune and fame<br />I’d even cut my hair<br />And change my name<br /><br />‘Cause we all just wanna be big rockstars<br />And live in hilltop houses driving fifteen cars<br />The girls come easy and the drugs come cheap<br />We’ll all stay skinny ‘cause we just won’t eat<br />And we’ll hang out at the coolest bars<br />In the VIP with the movie stars<br />Every good gold digger’s<br />Gonna wind up there<br />Every Playboy bunny<br />With her bleach blond hair<br />Hey hey I wanna be a rockstar<br /></em><br />“Anything in that sound familiar?” She teased.<br /><br />“And I suppose you think that Chad is ‘cute’” David smirked.<br /><br />“Cute? No…he’s HOT!” They all stared at her. “What? Can I help it if I have a thing for frontmen?” They guys laughed. She felt Jon stiffen and turned to him and smiled. “Just because I’m in love with you doesn’t mean I’m blind – anymore than you are.”<br /><br />She kissed him lightly and he smiled. Turning back to the others she didn’t notice that the smile didn’t reach his eyes – but Richie did.<br /><br /><br />When it came time for the guys to dress, Lindsay, as usual when she was with them, played fashion consultant, pleasantly surprised with the additions that David had made to his wardrobe. “Yay David! That’s it! You’re finally getting it!” She teased him. She should have known better.<br /><br />“Well, I guess that means both of us ‘got’ some today.” He commented with a straight face. Hers went up in flames.<br /><br /><br />While the guys were in makeup, after fixing her own, Lindsay wandered around checking out the stage, scoping for a good spot to watch the show from. Al, Richie’s guitar tech offered her a spot on the side of the stage, but she wanted to be out front where she could see everything. She finally found a spot between the ego ramp and the barricade on Hugh’s side of the stage. The crew assured her she wouldn’t be in anyone’s way and actually found a fold up stool for her to sit on. All set she head back to the dressing room to wait for the show to start.<br /><br />“Where ya been honey?” Jon asked when she came through the door.<br /><br />“Checking out the stage, finding a spot to watch the show from.” She answered. She looked at him and had to smile.<br /><br />“What?” He asked<br /><br />“I’ve never seen you up close in makeup before.” She chuckled. “You really are a pretty boy.”<br /><br />He grimaced. “Not one of my favorite aspects of the business.”<br /><br />The others came filing in.<br /><br />“Hey Lindsay, where’d you disappear to?” Richie asked.<br /><br />“Oh I went to check out the stage and scope a spot to watch from.” She replied.<br /><br />He frowned. “I told Al to find you a spot on the side of the stage.”<br /><br />“Oh he offered.” She assured him. “But I want to be out front where I can see everything.”<br /><br />“So where are you going to be?” David asked.<br /><br />“Security and the crew have set up a stool for me between the stage and the barricade by the ego ramp on Hugh’s side.” She answered. They snickered.<br /><br />Hugh smiled. “Ok, now I know you’re a fan.”<br /><br />“Why?” She was confused.<br /><br />“Because someone in the business would refer to it as bass side or lead side or stage left or stage right. Only the fans refer to it as my side or Richie’s side.” He explained.<br /><br />“Yeah, I keep thinking we should really mess them up by changing sides one night.” Richie mused. “And why aren’t you sitting on my side?”<br /><br />“And get between you and the Richie girls? No thanks, I’d like to survive the night.” She shuddered. “And as for changing sides…you’d have quite a few of upset fans if you did that. You do know that there are some who purposely pick seats there, even if there are better ones on the other side, right?”<br /><br />“Yeah. That’s why I’d like to do it once and see what they’d do.” He laughed.<br /><br />Suddenly she heard a roar and a guitar scream into an intro. “Nickelback starting?” She asked looking at the clock. Jon nodded.<br /><br />They sat just talking and goofing around until they heard the other band in the hallway on their way to their dressing rooms. Then she could feel the energy level of the room kick up a few notches. Sitting back she watched in fascination as they each went through their own little rituals to pump themselves up.<br /><br />Walking down the hallway towards the stage Lindsay made sure she stayed behind Jon.<br /><br />“What’s the matter Lindsay?” Tico asked noticing she was hanging back.<br /><br />“I’m staying out of range.” She answered. At his confused look she motioned towards Jon. “From all the footage I’ve seen, this is the point where he likes to start hitting walls and stuff. I’m staying out of the way.” He laughed.<br /><br />“Break a leg guys. I’ll see you after.” Giving Jon a quick kiss she all but ran to her seat out front. She wasn’t about to miss a minute of this. She’d been waiting a long time for this.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">C</span><span style="color:#cc33cc;">hapt</span><span style="color:#cc33cc;">er 54</span><br /><br />She was having the time of her life. The guys were on fire and Jon’s voice was as strong as she’d ever heard it. The energy flowing back and forth between the stage and the crowd was palpable. Periodically Jon would come out on the ramp on her side or up to the front of the stage, look at her and wink. When he sang <em>In These Arms</em> – one off her favorites list – and crawled out onto the ramp towards her, she actually had to fight the urge to grab him and pull him off into her arms. By the end she was exhausted, she was sure that her voice was shot and that she’d never been more attracted to him. When they came out to take their bows, she headed back stage to meet them when they came off.<br /><br />Yelling and high-fiveing each other, when they saw her they each in turn, picked her up and spun her around. By the time she got to Jon, who was last, she was laughing hard and a little dizzy. When Jon picked her up she wrapped her arms around his neck and captured his mouth with hers. Inhaling his musky, sweaty male scent she sighed in appreciation.<br /><br />Chuckling he set her down and released her. “I’m all sweaty.”<br /><br />“Mmmm hmm.” She agreed and licked his upper lip.<br /><br />Sliding his arm around her shoulders he urged her down the hallway. “Why don’t we skip the after party and head straight back to the room?” He suggested with a grin.<br /><br />She laughed. “You know you have to put in an appearance. Tell you what though. Why don’t we go, have one drink, you see who you have to see, and we’ll duck out early?”<br /><br />“It’s a deal.” He agreed.<br /><br />Reaching the dressing room she stopped. “I’ll wait out here. Let me know when everyone’s covered enough for me to come in.”<br /><br />He frowned and looked up and down the hallway. “Are you sure you’re going to be okay out here?”<br /><br />“I’m a big girl, I’ll be fine. Besides your security is roaming up and down the hall. If I need help I can just yell.” She pushed him into the room.<br /><br />She was standing there leaning against the door frame when a man approached her. She recognized him as the lead guitarist of Nickelback, but, to be honest, she didn’t know his name.<br /><br />“Hi there babe, I’m Ryan Peake.” He introduced himself.<br /><br />Gritting her teeth at the “babe” comment, she forced a small smile. “Hi, I’m Lindsay.”<br /><br />“You with them?” He gestured towards the door behind her.<br /><br />“Yes.” She answered.<br /><br />“How come I haven’t seen you around her before tonight?” He asked.<br /><br />“Because I’ve been working. I’m on vacation this week.” She replied.<br /><br />He frowned slightly. “You don’t sound like you’re from Jersey. You actually sound like you’re Canadian.”<br /><br />She smiled a real smile. “That’s because I am. I’m originally from Ontario. I moved to Jersey almost a year ago.”<br /><br />“Hey, a fellow Canuck!” He exclaimed.<br /><br />They stood chatting for the next while, discussing where she’d visited in Alberta, which of their songs she liked, things they missed from home…that sort of thing. Lindsay didn’t realize she’d shifted and was actually leaning against the door until it opened suddenly behind her. Only Richie’s quick reflexes prevented her from ending up on the floor.<br /><br />“Jesus Linds, are you okay?” He asked concerned as he helped her stand up again, nodding a greeting to Ryan.<br /><br />“Yeah, thanks Rich, I didn’t realize I was leaning on the door.” She shook her head at her own foolishness.<br /><br />“Well for all of our sakes, be more careful. If anything happened to you we’d both be on Jon’s shit list.” His words and tone were teasing, but the message in his eyes when he looked at Ryan was not. Ryan nodded. Message received.<br /><br />“Are you guys ready?” Lindsay asked, missing the byplay between the two men.<br /><br />Richie shook his head. “The rest of us are mostly dressed, but Jon’s still in the shower. But since that’s something you see on a regular basis, I figured you might as well come in and sit down while we wait.”<br /><br />“Thanks.” She turned back to Ryan. “Nice talking to you Ryan. I’ll see you later I guess. I’m looking forward to meeting the rest of the band.”<br /><br />“See you Lindsay.” Ryan replied and headed down the hallway.<br /><br />Lindsay turned and entered the room, not noticing Richie frowning slightly.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2233992774788831133.post-59272987862249185772008-11-05T19:22:00.000-08:002008-11-05T19:29:09.315-08:00Chapter 49Lindsay stood outside the front door and watched as the bags were packed into the car. <em>Come on Linds, hold it together. Don’t let him see how upset you are. You knew this was coming. It’s what he does. It’s who he is. Don’t make him feel guilty for it. No clinging. No tears. You can survive a few weeks without him.<br /></em><br />As Jon walked towards her she forced her lips to curve into some semblance of a smile. “You sure you’ve got everything?”<br /><br />“Yeah, I think so.” He replied. Reaching into his pocket he pulled out a ring of keys and handed them to her. “I almost forgot to give you these though.” At her questioning look he explained. “They’re for the estate.” He paused. “I want you treat my house as yours. Come and go as you please. Use the gym, the hot tub, the Inn….whatever you want. Mrs. Henderson will cook for you if you want.”<br /><br />She nodded and swallowed hard. “Thanks.”<br /><br />The door behind her opened and Richie came walking out with a cookie in his mouth and a bagful in his hand. Jon shook his head at him. “I’m going to have to drag you to the gym with me or you’re never going to make it through the tour.”<br /><br />“Well, if your woman wasn’t such a good cook, I wouldn’t have this problem…so actually it’s her fault.” He looked thoughtful for a minute. “Do you suppose they have support groups for cookie addictions?”<br /><br />Jon laughed. “You don’t need any support, you need a treatment program!”<br /><br />“Who said I wanted to be cured?” Richie retorted.<br /><br />Lindsay was still laughing when Richie walked up to hug her goodbye. He could see the sadness in her eyes beneath the laughter. “Hang tough darlin’, he’ll be back before you know it.” He murmured.<br /><br />“I know, but I’m going to miss him.” She murmured back.<br /><br />“Move your ass Sambora. I don’t want to have to listen to David bitch the whole flight because we were late…and let go of my woman!” Jon urged Richie toward the car.<br /><br />Wrapping her in his arms Jon just held her tight for a few minutes. Leaning back he searched her face as if he was memorizing every detail. He noticed the wetness shining in her eyes, but didn’t acknowledge it. Bending, he kissed her softly, but thoroughly.<br /><br />“Now, you’ve got my schedule. I’ve marked on it which nights we’ll be home. I’ll let you know if Richie’s staying here or what his plans are. I’ll call you as often as I can. You can call me whenever you want. If I don’t answer, leave a message. If you need anything and can’t get me, call Janet. She can get a message through. If…”<br /><br />Lindsay reached up and pressed her fingers to his lips, stopping his words. “Stop. We’ve been over all this. I’ll be fine. You go out there and make the fans happy.” She frowned. “And behave yourself at the after parties!”<br /><br />He chuckled. “Don’t worry sweetheart. I may look, but you’re the only one I want to touch.”<br /><br />“Now who’s making us late? I’m not taking the blame for this!” Richie hollered from the car winking at Lindsay.<br /><br />Arms around each other they walked to the waiting car. Reaching it Jon pulled Lindsay into his arms and kissed her again.<br /><br />“Bye honey. I’ll miss you. I’ll call you tonight.”<br /><br />“Bye. Have a safe trip.” She smiled at him. “I’ll be here waiting for you when you get home.”<br /><br />“There’s incentive.” He murmured against her mouth. Their lips clung for a moment.<br /><br />“I love you.” He whispered.<br /><br />“I love you too.” Sighing, she let him go.<br /><br />She waved as the car pulled away. Taking a deep breath she turned back towards the house and wondered how she was going to fill the hours until he got back. <em>Stop it! Don’t be such a ninny. You have always been a strong, independent woman. Just because you have a man doesn’t mean that changes. Now’s your chance to do all the things you haven’t had time to do. Stop the pity party and show that you’re worthy of him!</em> Feeling more in control, she grabbed her purse, climbed into her car and headed for the office.<br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 50</span><br /><br />Four and a half weeks later, Lindsay was working late trying to get a few cases cleaned up so that she could leave a little early the next day. Jon was coming home tomorrow night and she had a few preparations she wanted to make and she wanted to make sure she had time to take a nap so that she could stay awake until he got there. He’d only been home once since the tour started. She’d been sound asleep and he hadn’t wanted to wake her, and then she’d had to work the next morning, so their time together had been limited. She was determined that it not happen this time – especially since he’d had to cancel his last scheduled trip home due to interview scheduling problems.<br /><br />She was deep into a report when her cell phone rang, startling her.<br /><br />“Hello.”<br /><br />“Hi honey.” He sounded tired.<br /><br />Her face lit up. “Hey there. How are you?”<br /><br />“Tired…missing you.” He answered.<br /><br />“I miss you too. But you’ll be home tomorrow night.”<br /><br />He hesitated. “Yeah, that’s part of the reason I’m calling.” He paused again.<br /><br />She sighed, closed her eyes and leaned her head against the back of her chair. “You’re not coming home tomorrow are you?”<br /><br />It was his turn to sigh. “I’m sorry sweetie. The record company wants us to do a local early morning radio show the day after tomorrow, and there’s just no time to make the trip home.” Another pause. “Please don’t be mad. I promise I’ll make it up to you.”<br /><br />“I’m not mad. I’m just disappointed. I’m at the office working late so that I could leave early tomorrow. I had plans for us. I was even going to take a nap so that I would be awake when you got here.” She fought to keep her voice light.<br /><br />“Plans huh. What kind of plans?” His voice turned husky.<br /><br />“It was a surprise, and it’s a good one, so I guess I’ll just have to save it until you get home - especially since you just promised to make it up to me.” She teased him. <em>Gotcha!</em> She made a mental note to add a few things to the agenda.<br /><br />He groaned. “Why do I get the feeling I better make sure I sleep all the way home?”<br /><br />She chuckled. “That’s probably a good idea…after all it will be Valentine’s Day....unless your schedule changes again.”<br /><br />“It won’t. I promise. I will be there Valentine’s Day.” He sounded determined. “I’m not missing that one.”<br /><br />He kept his promise.<br /><br />Lindsay stood in the middle of Jon’s bedroom and looked around making sure she had everything ready. Jon had called from the airport and would be home any minute. Richie was visiting his mother tonight, so they would have the house to themselves. Walking into the adjoining bathroom she checked her preparations there. Assessing her appearance in the mirror she blew out a nervous breath. The lingerie she was wearing was very similar to the one he bought her for Christmas, but in red in honour of the occasion. She felt like a teenager waiting for her first date to arrive.<br /><br />Hearing a car in the driveway she turned out the light and returned to the bedroom. Both rooms were lit only by the many candles she had strategically placed throughout, bathing everything in a soft glow. Music played softly in the background. Facing the doorway, she waited.<br /><br />Walking in the door, Jon dropped his bag and looked around, expecting Lindsay to be waiting for him. His disappointment quickly transformed to anticipation when he saw the trail of rose petals leading up the stairs. Grinning, already feeling the first tingles of arousal, he followed them. Arriving at the doorway to his bedroom he stepped over the threshold and every muscle in his body froze. His lungs seized. As she walked towards him his eyes licked over every inch of her in appreciation.<br /><br />“Welcome home honey.” She murmured, her voice sultry. Taking advantage of his state she started slowly unbuttoning his shirt, pulling it out of his pants and easing it off of his shoulders. Mesmerized, he just stood there and watched her. Tracing her fingers lightly down his chest she slid them under his waist band and smiled when he sucked in his breath – and his stomach. Undoing the button and sliding down the zipper of his tight jeans she pushed them over his hips and down his legs. She was careful not to touch him with anything but the lightest touch. She had a long night planned.<br /><br />When she had him completely naked she took his hand and led him to the bed. Blinking, he tried to pull her close, but she resisted. “Do you remember when you promised to make it up to me for not getting home the last two times?” She asked softly. He nodded. “Well, I know what I’d like you to do.” He raised a brow at her. “Lay down on the bed for me.” When he complied, she reached out and picked up two silk scarves she had left on the bedside table. Climbing on the bed she straddled his lower chest. Showing him the scarves she saw awareness of what she intended register on his face. “Do you trust me?” She challenged him.<br /><br />He hesitated briefly, searching her eyes, then slowly raised his arms above his head. “With my life” He answered.<br /><br />Leaning forward she tied each wrist to the headboard with a scarf. Plumping up another pillow she placed it under his head. “Comfortable?” He nodded. Sliding off him she reached for two much longer scarves and tied his ankles to the footboard.<br /><br />He smiled at the expression on her face as she surveyed her handiwork. “You’re enjoying this aren’t you?”<br /><br />“Not yet, but I plan to.” She answered with a grin. Disappearing into the bathroom she returned with a bottle of champagne and two flutes.<br /><br />Watching her struggle with the cork he chuckled. “I’d help you, but…” he gestured with his bound hands.<br /><br />With a loud pop, the cork flew across the room and she smiled in triumph. Filling both glasses half full she set the bottle down. Picking one up she climbed on the bed and sat near his head sliding an arm under his shoulders to help raise him up so that he could drink.<br /><br />Taking a sip he licked his lips and gazed at her. “So, this is what you had planned?”<br /><br />She smiled and nodded. “Originally, yes, but I’ve added a few things since then.”<br /><br />He closed his eyes and groaned. “Am I going to survive it?”<br /><br />She laughed low and husky. “I certainly hope so.”<br /><br />When they’d finished that glass of champagne she stood up again. “Do you know what goes with Valentine’s Day?” She asked him<br /><br />“Well, we’ve got champagne, I followed the roses up here, and you’ve got my heart, so I guess that leaves...” He saw her pick up a jar. “….chocolate.” Her grin turned lecherous. “What is that?” He asked a little warily. He had visions of hot sauce which would not be very comfortable.<br /><br />“Relax, it’s just chocolate icing.” She dipped her finger in the jar and offered it to him.<br /><br />Knowing what he was in for he tried to even the playing field a little by slowly sucking the sweet icing from her skin, swirling his tongue around her finger and scraping his teeth lightly along the sensitive edges gratified to see her eyes dilate in response.<br /><br />Straddling him again she set the jar of icing beside her and began to caress him with her hands. Reaching up she started at his wrists, stroking down his inner arms lightly, teasingly. When she got close to his armpits he twitched. He was ticklish. Smiling she touched him more firmly as she moved to his collar bone. Spreading her fingers wide she stroked his chest, tangling her fingers in his fur, tugging gently. Glancing at his face she saw that he had closed his eyes and was just enjoying her touch.<br /><br />Leaning forward she smoothed his eyebrows with a fingertip, traced the slope of his nose and the shape of his mouth. He murmured approvingly. Replacing her finger with her tongue she traced his lips with the tip. When he opened them in invitation she dipped in to taste him briefly. Sitting up again she reached for the icing. Scooping up a bit with her finger she once again traced his mouth, this time leaving a trail of chocolate. Switching back to her tongue again she licked him clean, sucking on his lips to make sure she got it all. Unable to help herself she swept her tongue deep into his mouth, tangling it with his and letting him taste the chocolate too. They were both breathing hard by the time she could bring herself to break the kiss.<br /><br />Sitting up she surveyed his chest. Reaching out, she picked up the other champagne flute. Glancing up she watched his face as she poured the bubbly fluid in a line down the centre of his chest. Setting the glass aside she used her hands to spread it all over. Bending over she began to lick and suck reveling in the mixtures of tastes – the cool sweet wine, and the warm musky man. Picking up the icing, she spread a finger full over each male nipple, taking care to cover them evenly, smiling as he groaned. Delicately flicking the hardened tip with her tongue she felt him stiffen beneath her. When she finally used her lips and mouth to suck up the chocolate his back arched in response.<br /><br />“God Lindsay, hurry up!” He ground out between clenched teeth. She shook her head. “I said I’d make it up to you, not that you could torture me!”<br /><br />Chuckling she slid further down so that she was now straddling his thighs. Once again she reached for the glass and poured the remainder of the champagne over his lower abdomen. Her mouth slowly roamed sucking up the fluid pausing for a moment at the puddle in his navel. At the same time her hands slid up and down his hips and thighs, carefully avoiding where he most wanted to feel her touch.<br /><br />He was now moaning and beads of sweat had started to form on his upper lip. God, how she loved seeing him like this, knowing that she had brought him to this state of need! And set about ratcheting it up a notch.<br /><br />Sliding her hand between her thighs she pulled the snaps of her teddy open, then slowly lifted the silk up and off of her body.<br /><br />Picking up the jar of icing once again, she scooped up a large fingerful and set the jar aside. Glancing at his face she saw him watching her with eyes glazed with hunger. Looking down, with her empty hand she traced one finger down the underside of his shaft, amazed as always at the velvety softness of his most sensitive skin. Gripping him firmly at the base she held him upright and covered the entire knob with icing taking care that coverage was complete.<br /><br />“Sugar, please! I can’t take much more!” He rasped.<br /><br />The tip of her tongue cleaned a path across the top of the head. His arms jerked and his hips bucked in reflex. Looking up in surprise at the violence of his reaction she met his gaze.<br /><br />“You’re going to be tasting a whole lot more than that if you don’t hurry!” He warned her, panting.<br /><br />She smiled and relented. Taking him deep into her mouth she swirled her tongue around him and sucked the remaining icing from his skin - lightly as she wanted him inside her when he climaxed. He shuddered as he fought for control. When she was sure she had removed all the icing she sat up, raised up on her knees and impaled herself on him. Bracing her hands on his abdomen she started to move, rocking on him. His hips bucked against her, matching her rhythm. Her ministrations to his body had aroused her almost as much as they had him. It took mere minutes before they both shattered, their cries of pleasure echoing throughout the room.<br /><br /><br />Spent, Lindsay collapsed on his chest gasping for breath, listening to his heart pounding beneath her ear. When she had caught her breath sufficiently to move, she climbed off him and headed to the bathroom.<br /><br />“Hey, aren’t you going to untie me?” He called, still breathless.<br /><br />He heard water running in the bathtub and smiled, having a pretty good idea of what was next on the evening’s agenda.<br /><br />Exiting the bathroom she approached the bed and untied first the scarves anchoring his ankles, then his wrists. As he sat up and rolled his shoulders to ease the muscles she frowned in concern.<br /><br />“Are you alright?” She felt horrible that she might have caused him pain.<br /><br />Seeing her look he reassured her. “I’m fine, just tight muscles.”<br /><br />Picking up a glass and the bottle of champagne, she held her hand out to him. “I can help with that.”<br /><br />Taking her hand and obediently following her into the bathroom he was amazed at the effect she had achieved. Candles were set around the gently steaming tub, their flickering light reflected by the bubbles that covered the water’s surface. A faint aroma of vanilla filled the air. Stepping into the water, she tugged on his hand.<br /><br />“You’re all sticky. We need to get you cleaned up….and ease those tight muscles.” she purred.<br /><br />Motioning him to sit in front of her, she drew her knees up on either side of his hips and pulled on his shoulders so that his back rested against her. Taking a sponge she gently scrubbed his chest and arms. He sighed in appreciation. Setting aside the sponge she moved her hands to his shoulders to massage the muscles made tight from being in one position for so long. Digging in her thumbs to release the knots she felt him relax more completely against her.<br /><br />“Mmmm, sugar, you have magic hands. Maybe I should bring you out on the road as my masseuse.” He groaned as she found another knot and released it.<br /><br />When his shoulders were loose again, she picked up the sponge and continued to bathe him sliding her hands down and around his waist, smiling when she realized that while her massage had softened some muscles, it had hardened another. Licking his earlobe and sucking it lightly, she stroked him, first with the sponge, then with her fingers.<br /><br />Groaning, his hand came up to cup the back of her head. Urging her forward he turned until he could reach her lips and devour her mouth. Sitting up he grabbed her arm and pulled her around until she was sitting in front of him. Cupping her breasts he kneaded them before pulling gently on the taut peaks.<br /><br />Leaning back against him she gave him access to her body – which he quickly took advantage of. His lips found the hollow beneath her ear and nuzzled there, sending shivers throughout her body. His hands stroked down her belly and over her thighs, gripping them and lifting until her knees bent and she was fully open to him. One hand returned to fondle her breast while the other traced more sensitive flesh. His only regret was that the bath water prevented him from fully feeling her response. Probing her with a gentle finger he listened to her laboured breathing and breathy moans.<br /><br />“Mmmm, Oh God, Jon.”<br /><br />Smiling, his finger delved deeper and stroked her inside, causing her to cry out.<br /><br />“JON! Mmmmm, please!”<br /><br />“Please what?” He growled in her ear.<br /><br />“It’s not enough. I need more…I need you!” She begged rocking her hips against his erection behind her and his hand in front of her.<br /><br />Control breaking he removed his hand, grasped her hips, lifted her and let her slowly slide down his shaft until he was fully buried. Wrapping his arms around her he slowly rocked against her, rocked into her over and over, their strangled moans and sloshing water the only sounds in the room. Suddenly he felt her clench around him and with a shout he joined her in paradise.<br /><br />When he could breathe again and he was sure his heart wasn’t going to explode, he looked down through slitted eyes at the woman in his arms. Squeezing her gently he kissed her temple.<br /><br />“You do pretty well at celebrating holidays yourself sweetheart.” He observed. She just smiled.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 51</span><br /><br />“So my flight gets in about 3 if everything’s on time. With luck I’ll be at the hotel by 4. What time are you guys heading for the arena?” Lindsay cradled the phone between ear and shoulder as she continued packing.<br /><br />“About 5, I think, unless Obie gets anal about the sound check. I’ll have someone pick you up at the airport. Hey man.” Jon answered.<br /><br />She blinked, confused for a moment, then understood. “Richie just walk in?” She asked.<br /><br />He chuckled. “Yeah, and he wants to know if you’re bringing cookies.”<br /><br />“Geez, that man is worse than the kids!” She laughed. “Tell him they’re already packed. But if I don’t get off the phone <strong>I </strong>won’t be!”<br /><br />“So…you’d have to be naked a lot of the time?” He sounded hopeful.<br /><br />“You wish!” She retorted “No, it would mean I’d miss my flight.”<br /><br />“Ok, ok, I’ll let you go so you’ll be ready. See you soon honey. I love you.”<br /><br />“I love you too Jon. I’ll see you this afternoon.” Lindsay answered.<br /><br /><br />Hanging up the phone with an impatient sigh Jon turned to see Richie watching him intently. “What?”<br /><br />“You’re really in love with her aren’t you?” He asked quietly.<br /><br />“Yeah, I am. She makes me feel…..” And the man who could write love songs that made women around the world weep couldn’t find the words to describe his own feelings. “I don’t know….like I want to be a better man for her. She gets me like no woman has – even Dorothea. When I come home she’s always excited to see me. She makes me feel welcome….wanted…..needed. I want her around all the time. I want to be the centre of her life. I never liked clinging women, but I wish she would cling just a little.” He shrugged and blushed and prepared for a smart ass reaction. He didn’t get it.<br /><br />Richie just nodded. “I envy you bro. She’s wonderful. As for the clinging. I have a feeling she holds back because she thinks that’s what you want…what she has to do to maintain the independence she needs to survive your absences – and this.” He waved a hand to indicate their whole lifestyle.<br /><br />Jon nodded. “I know, and normally, I’d agree.” He sighed. “With her it’s…..different.”<br /><br />“You going to marry her?” Richie asked, curious.<br /><br />Jon hesitated. “I don’t know. I don’t know if I want to go through that again. I thought Dorothea was everything I needed and we were going to be together forever. I obviously wasn’t enough for her. What if I can’t be for Lindsay either?”<br /><br /><br />Exiting from baggage claim pulling her suitcase behind her, Lindsay looked around for whoever was supposed to pick her up. She was not a happy camper. Her plane was delayed an hour and now she probably wouldn’t get to see Jon before they left for the arena.<br /><br />“Miss Chandler?” A voice asked behind her. Turning she saw Jack, a young BJM staffer she’d met once.<br /><br />“Hi Jack. Please call me Lindsay. So you got the short straw today eh?” She smiled.<br /><br />Taking her suitcase from her hand he laughed. “It’s not a hardship. I’m happy to do it.” He hesitated. “Besides, Jon’s bouncing off the walls today acting like a storm looking to break. I’d just as soon not be there when he does.” He smiled ruefully. “I figure bringing you to him will get me in his good books for awhile.”<br /><br />She laughed. She knew he didn’t really mean to make Jon sound like a tyrant, but she also knew Jon was a perfectionist and could be difficult when things didn’t go the way he wanted them to.<br /><br />Entering the hotel Lindsay hesitated. She knew that these high end hotels usually had someone who dealt specifically with the celebrities that stayed there, but didn’t know how to explain who she was and make them believe her. She guessed she’d have to wait until Jack brought her luggage in.<br /><br />“Miss Chandler?” Surprised, she turned to the uniformed man standing in front of her. “My name is Frank. I’m the VIP liaison. If you would like to come with me, I’ll show you to your room.”<br /><br />“You know who I am?” She had to ask. As Jack joined them, they headed for the elevators.<br /><br />He actually blushed as he nodded. “My wife is a fan of the band’s. When she found out that they were staying here she insisted on showing me pictures of everyone she could that were connected to them so that I would recognize them. When I was informed that someone was joining them…specifically him today, I figured it was you, so I’ve been watching for you.”<br /><br />“Good work.” She complimented him, impressed at his – and his wife’s initiative. “Have they left already then?”<br /><br />He nodded. “About 20 minutes ago. Here you go.” Opening the door to the suite he held it while she and Jack entered and handed her the key. “If you need anything, just call.”<br /><br />“Thanks Frank.” She went to tip him, but he refused.<br /><br />“My wife would kill me.” He assured her as he left.<br /><br />Lindsay laughed. Turning to Jack, she grabbed her suitcase. “Just give me ten minutes.” And headed for the bedroom.<br /><br />Jack looked up as she re-entered the sitting room ten minutes later and couldn’t help but whistle.<br /><br />She chuckled. “So I look okay then?” The tight jeans hugged her hips and butt, and the halter style top showed enough skin to be sexy, but not enough to be slutty.<br /><br />“Remind me not to be between you and Jon when he sees you.” He grinned.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2233992774788831133.post-702474868778041902008-11-05T19:14:00.000-08:002008-11-05T19:22:05.551-08:00Chapter 46Lindsay woke up early the next morning. Sliding out from under Jon’s arm, careful not to wake him she headed for the shower. Emerging from the bathroom she quickly dressed and approached the bed. Sitting on the edge, she smoothed a lock of hair off his forehead and smiled at how angelic he looked sleeping there, slumped on his stomach, only one eye visible. Leaning down she kissed him gently to wake him.<br /><br />“Mmmm.” His arm snaked around her hips to pull her closer. Feeling her clothing he frowned and opened his eye. “Why are you dressed already?”<br /><br />She chuckled. “Because your family is going to descend on us very shortly, and I knew if I didn’t get dressed before I woke you, I’d still be naked when they arrived!”<br /><br />“You say that like it’s a bad thing.” He grinned.<br /><br />She grinned back at him. “Come on lazy bones. I need you to help me get things ready.” She gave him a swat on his rear end and tried to stand up. He tightened his grip and held her still.<br /><br />“Honey you know I can’t cook – at least not food.” He leered at her.<br /><br />“Wow, you’ve really got a one track mind this morning.” She laughed. “Well, you can make us breakfast while I work on dinner. I know you can handle that much……and we’ll see about the rest of your…domestic skills…. later….after everyone has gone.” Kissing him again she went to rise. Reluctantly he let her go.<br /><br />Sitting up he ran a hand through his hair and sighed. “Ok I guess I can do that.” Lindsay made sure he was heading for the shower before she headed downstairs.<br /><br />They had finished breakfast, Lindsay had completed as much of the dinner preparations as she could this far ahead, and had just got everything cleaned up when they heard the monitor beep that the gate was opening.<br /><br />Reaching the front door as it opened they were quickly engulfed by Jon’s very enthusiastic family.<br /><br />Helping Romeo get his coat and boots off, Lindsay picked the toddler up for a hug and a kiss hello. He immediately got distracted by the flash of her necklace visible at the base of her throat. Touching it he looked thoughtful for a minute, then he smiled. “Daddy!”<br /><br />She smiled. “Yes, Daddy gave me the necklace.”<br /><br />The little boy frowned. “No!” Twisting around until he could reach Jon who was standing beside them he patted his father’s upper arm. “Daddy!”<br /><br />“Oh, yes, it’s just like Daddy’s tattoo.” She laughed.<br /><br />Carol, noting the necklace raised a questioning brow at her oldest son. He just smiled.<br /><br />Settling everyone in the living room by the tree, Stephanie and Jesse started handing out the presents. Conversation was reduced to “thank you!”, “cool”, and “hey look at this!”<br /><br />Looking up from watching Jon help Romeo open a present, Lindsay saw Stephanie approaching. “Thank you so much for the clothes Lindsay, they’re really cool.”<br /><br />Jon looked up at that. “Hey, I believe <strong>my</strong> name was on some of those packages.”<br /><br />“Yeah, but I know who picked them out.” At a look from Lindsay, she sighed, leaned down and kissed her father’s cheek. “Thanks Dad.”<br /><br />“You’re welcome…even though apparently I’m not capable of picking out cool clothes.” He grouched.<br /><br />Stephanie rolled her eyes. “Oh you do okay for your stage stuff, but face it… if you had your way I’d still be in frilly little pink dresses and overalls!” Even Jon had to smile at that…there was a certain amount of truth to her statement. He wasn’t very comfortable with the idea of his little girl growing up.<br /><br />Turning to Lindsay she showed her the gift certificate she got for a local spa. “Do you know anything about this place?”<br /><br />Lindsay shook her head. “Not personally, but the girls at work say it’s wonderful.” She waved her own certificate. “I got one too.”<br /><br />Stephanie’s face lit up. “Cool! Can we go together?”<br /><br />“Sure, if you want to.” Blinking back tears she blindly reached for Jon’s hand, felt him grip it and squeeze. “I’d like that.”<br /><br /><br /><br />Dinner was plentiful and delicious – although both Jake and Romeo looked like they had been rolling in it instead of eating it.<br /><br />“Hey buddy! How’d you get it on me?” Matt asked incredulously from where he sat beside Jake. “Don’t you know you’re supposed to put it in your mouth not on my shirt?!” Jake laughed and offered his uncle a spoonful of his pudding.<br /><br />“Lindsay, will you play that new game you gave me with me after dinner?” Jesse asked.<br /><br />“Sure pal, just let me get your brothers cleaned up and you’re on.” She replied.<br /><br />“I’ll play with you until she’s done.” Anthony offered. Jesse smiled and accepted his uncle’s challenge.<br /><br />Walking into the kitchen with an armload of dishes Stephanie stopped and looked around. “Whoa, Mrs. Henderson’s gonna freak!”<br /><br />Lindsay chuckled. “No she’s not, because we’re going to clean it all up.” <br /><br />At Stephanie’s dismayed look her grandmother laughed. “Come on Steph it won’t take that long.”<br /><br />When Lindsay headed for the sink, Carol stopped her. “We’ll do this, you go bathe the two terrors in there before they spread the rest of their meal all over the house.”<br /><br />Re-entering the dining room she stood surveying the two youngest members of the family.<br /><br />“What’s the matter?” Jon asked.<br /><br />“I’m trying to figure out how to pick them up and get them into the bathtub without wearing some myself!” She answered wryly.<br /><br />“No problem.” Matt piped up. “Jon, you grab Romeo and I’ll get Jake.” The two strong men lifted the little boys under the arms and held them at arms length all the way upstairs to the bathroom where they deposited them in the tub.<br /><br />Half an hour later she led the two, now clean and in pajamas into the living room before heading into the kitchen to help finish cleaning there.<br /><br />Returning to the living room, she stopped in the doorway and surveyed the family spread out around the room in various activities. She focused on Jon with Romeo on his lap reading a new book. The sight brought a tear to her eye and a smile to her face. Over the last few months she had watch Jon become more and more comfortable with Romeo. Now, there was no more flinching when Romeo called him ‘Daddy’, no more shadows in his eyes when he looked at the beautiful little boy. They were just father and son.<br /><br />“I’m glad to see that Jon has come to terms with that situation.” Carol commented from beside her. When Lindsay looked at her questioningly, she nodded towards Jon and Romeo. “Romeo’s too little to understand what’s going on, but he could sense Jon’s distance. That was too bad. It’s not Romeo’s fault. I’m glad Jon has accepted him.” <br /><br />Lindsay nodded. “He’s such a wonderful little boy, he deserves to be loved. They all do.”<br /><br />Carol shook her head in disbelief at her. “You amaze me Lindsay.”<br /><br />Lindsay gaped at her in surprise. “Why?”<br /><br />“Well, most women in your position would, at best, tolerate their boyfriend’s children with another woman, but you truly love them. When Jon said that you didn’t have children I was afraid that meant that you didn’t like them. But I can see that’s not the case.” She hesitated, not wanting to pry.<br /><br />Lindsay understood her hesitation. “I just never found the right man in time, and now…” She shrugged, accepting that she would never have a child from her body.<br /><br />Carol debated pointing out that 39 was not too late, but changed her mind. She’d let the two of them decide that. “Well, I have to say that I’m selfishly grateful for it.” At Lindsay’s look she explained. “Your maternal instinct is very strong. And it’s my grandchildren who will benefit from that and the love you so obviously have to share with them.”<br /><br />Eyes shining Lindsay smiled. “I can see so much of him in them it tugs at my heart. They’re part of him, but they’re great kids in their own right. I feel privileged to be part of their lives.”<br /><br />Carol hugged her. “Welcome to my family Lindsay. I’m so glad Jon found you.”<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 47</span><br /><br />It was two days before New Year’s Eve and Lindsay was tidying up her desk before heading to Jon’s when her phone rang.<br /><br />“Hello.”<br /><br />“Hi Lindsay, it’s Dorothea.”<br /><br />“Hi. How are you?”<br /><br />“Fine thanks. I have a favour to ask though.” Dorothea admitted.<br /><br />“What’s up?”<br /><br />“Can you take the kids for a few days? I know that you’re having a party New Year’s Eve, so if you don’t want to I’ll understand. Sam wanted us to get away for a few days. I told him that we should wait, but,….”<br /><br />Lindsay interrupted her. “That’s fine Dorothea, we can take them.”<br /><br />“Are you sure? I know they can be a handful, and with a houseful of people coming…” Dorothea sounded doubtful.<br /><br />“It’s fine. They’re really no trouble. Richie and the rest of the guys are arriving tomorrow, so they can help keep them occupied, and they know everyone that’s coming to the party, so it’ll be fine.” Lindsay assured her. “Can I ask why you’re calling me and not Jon?”<br /><br />Dorothea snorted. “Because I know he’ll say yes without discussing it with you. I know what it’s like to try to organize a party and have him drop things on you at the last minute with no warning. I figured that this way you get a say and are prepared.”<br /><br />Lindsay laughed. “Thanks. I appreciate that. When do you want us to take them?”<br /><br />“If it’s okay with you, we’ll drop them off tomorrow afternoon and pick them up on the second.” Dorothea suggested.<br /><br />“That works for me. I’ll make sure their rooms are ready. I guess I’d better stock up on chocolate chips. Between the kids and Richie, I can’t keep up with the cookie demands.” Lindsay was thinking out loud.<br /><br />Dorothea laughed. “I’ve heard about your cookies. I’ll have to try one sometime. Thanks a lot for this Lindsay. I really appreciate it. See you tomorrow.”<br /><br />Entering the house Lindsay headed for the kitchen to let Mrs. Henderson know that the kids would be coming for a few days and discuss menu ideas.<br /><br />She tracked Jon down in his study. “The kids are coming tomorrow and staying until after New Year’s.” She informed him.<br /><br />He raised his brows, surprised. “You invited them?”<br /><br />She shook her head. “Dorothea called and asked me if we could take them. She and Sam want to get away for a few days. That’s ok isn’t it?”<br /><br />“Sure.” He looked a little confused. “Wonder why she called you and not me.”<br /><br />Lindsay smiled. “I asked her that too. She said that she knows you and wanted to make sure that I was okay with it…and that I was prepared.” He grunted.<br /><br /><br />New Year’s Eve arrived and with it Lindsay’s nervousness. She’d been driving the staff nuts going over every detail again and again to make sure they hadn’t forgotten anything. This was their first party as a couple and she really wanted to make a good impression on Jon’s friends. Jon kept telling her to relax, but that was easier said than done. They wanted the evening to be casual so she had decided to wear black loose dress pants and a matching strapless, form fitting top, but now she wasn’t so sure. She was checking her appearance yet again in the mirror when Jon came looking for her.<br /><br />Sighing he looked over her head and met her eyes in the mirror. “Will you relax! You look beautiful. Everyone’s going to love you.” Bending he kissed her bare shoulder.<br /><br />“Hey you two! Get a room… oh wait this is your room… I mean get a move on. Your guests will be arriving any minute. And Jon, while I don’t doubt she’s delicious – she certainly looks it tonight – you can’t eat our hostess…yet.” Richie chortled from the doorway.<br /><br />Blushing she turned and headed for the door. As she passed Richie she looked up at him still chuckling at his own wit. “You know Sambora, it’s a good thing you’re cute because you’re not as funny as you think you are.” The look on his face was priceless. He wasn’t sure whether to take that as a compliment or an insult.<br /><br />Jon was chuckling as he clapped his friend on the back. “She gets a little feisty when she’s nervous… but she’s right.” Richie gave him the finger. Jon laughed and they both followed Lindsay down the hallway.<br /><br /><em>I’m never going to remember all these names!</em> Lindsay looked around the room with something close to panic. There were BJM people, Soul people, Habitat people, other charities, personal friends, and some she wasn’t sure where they fit. Some overlapped, some had brought dates, some had spouses, and some she wasn’t sure what they were. She was almost afraid to open her mouth in case she put her foot in it. <em>Buck up Lindsay. You survived ten years in the political arena, you danced on stage with the Deputy Prime Minister of Canada, you can do this. You’re just a little out of practice.</em> Jon’s touch on her back brought her attention back to her immediate vicinity.<br /><br />“Lindsay I’d like you to meet Craig Spencer and Ron Jaworski.” Jon introduced her.<br /><br />“Hi, I have to say I’m really looking forward to the new season.” Lindsay smiled as she shook their hands.<br /><br />“You like arena football?” Craig asked, a little surprised. Jon was too.<br /><br />She nodded enthusiastically. “Don’t tell Bill,” she gestured toward Bill Belichik whom she had met earlier, “but I actually prefer it to the outdoor game. Player’s bouncing off the boards, live balls off the nets in the end zone, ironmen playing both ways, it’s a blast to watch. I can hardly wait to actually see a game in the arena.”<br /><br />Ron laughed. “That’s what I like to hear! Anytime you want to attend a game, even if Jon’s away, just let Craig’s assistant know and we’ll make sure the owner’s box is ready for you.”<br /><br />“Thanks. I’ll be taking you up on that, especially since Jon’s going to be on tour for most of the season.” Lindsay responded.<br /><br />“Hmm, maybe I should take another look at my tour schedule. I’m not sure I like the idea of you going to games without me.” Jon frowned. They all laughed.<br /><br />Circulating around they came upon a BJM group. This group Lindsay was a little more comfortable with as she had met many of them several times before.<br /><br />“I want to thank you again for all of your help with Jon’s Christmas present.” She said to Janet.<br /><br />“Oh you’re welcome.” Janet replied. “He liked it then?”<br /><br />“Oh yeah, I think you could say that.” Lindsay smiled and shot a look at Jon who smiled back at her, his eyes glowing in remembrance.<br /><br />“I loved it.” He replied.<br /><br />Neither of them noticed the two women standing by the side of the room watching them.<br /><br />“Hey boss!” Obie walked up to join them.<br /><br />Jon quirked a brow. “You must want something.”<br /><br />“Who me?” Obie asked in his most innocent voice. “I’m just trying to make all of our lives a little easier.” <br /><br />They all looked at him in confusion. “You’re making even less sense than usual Ob, what’s up?” Jon voiced what everyone was thinking.<br /><br />“Well, I wanted to introduce Lindsay here to some of our security people, so that when she joins us on the road she won’t get ignored and told to take a hike, which would just upset her, which would just upset you, which would just make all of our lives a living hell, which I would just as soon avoid if at all humanly possible, and Richie said to tell you that the cookies are running out.”<br /><br />It took several moments to sort out everything that had come spouting out of his mouth. “Did he say that all in one breath?” Lindsay asked, impressed.<br /><br />“Yeah, he’s just chock full of hot air.” Jon replied dryly. “I do not make everyone’s life a ‘living hell’ when I’m upset about something.”<br /><br />Everyone just stared at him in disbelief, but no one wanted to argue with the boss. Lindsay chuckled. “Let’s just say that you’re much more pleasant to be around when you get your way.” She replied diplomatically. Even Jon had to laugh at that.<br /><br />Stephanie came walking up carrying Romeo and holding Jake’s hand. Both of them were bathed and in their pajamas. “The boys want to say good night.”<br /><br />“Night guys.” Jon said as he bent and kissed them goodnight.<br /><br />“Night Daddy.” Jake answered.<br /><br />“Night little man. Night buddy.” Lindsay kissed them too.<br /><br />“Yindsay read story!” Romeo demanded.<br /><br />“Not tonight, buddy, she needs to stay down here. I’ll read you your story.” His sister offered.<br /><br />Out came the bottom lip and it started to quiver. His face scrunched up and turned an alarming shade of red. “NO! WANT YINDSAY! YINDSAY READ STORY!”<br /><br />“Okay, okay, but just a short one.” Lindsay relented to avoid a full on tantrum.<br /><br />Instantly his face relaxed into a big smile and he reached for her.<br /><br />“Speaking of Bongiovi’s who are more pleasant when they get their way!” Obie commented.<br /><br />Laughter followed her as she headed for the stairs with Stephanie and Jake.<br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 48</span><br /><br />Heading back down the stairs after getting the boys to sleep Lindsay found her way blocked at the bottom by two women. Both brunettes, beautiful and well built they exuded sex. Lindsay racked her brain trying to remember their names. She had a vague vision of meeting them and their dates – who were BJM staff members she thought.<br /><br />“You seem pretty comfortable in his house.” The one on the left commented.<br /><br />“Yeah, it took awhile to get used to, but I don’t get lost nearly as often anymore.” Lindsay quipped, not sure what the women were after.<br /><br />The women just smiled faintly.<br /><br />“I suppose pretending to care about his kids is a good way to ingratiate yourself with him.” The second woman stated snidely.<br /><br />“There’s no pretending involved, and I….I’m sorry, I’ve forgotten your names.” Lindsay felt her temper begin to rise.<br /><br />“I’m Tiffany.” Said the one on the left.<br /><br />“And I’m Buffy.” The second one supplied.<br /><br />“And are you friends of Jon’s?” She asked curious as to how they would answer.<br /><br />“Our dates are longtime BJM staff, and they’ve told us so much about Jon, that we felt we should give you a friendly warning.” Tiffany’s smile didn’t reach her eyes.<br /><br />“Yes we would hate to see someone like you get hurt.” Buffy added.<br /><br />“Someone like me.” Lindsay repeated.<br /><br />None of them saw Richie and David appear in the nearby doorway, or David turn and re-enter the living room only to return moments later with Jon.<br /><br />“You’re so naïve and gullible I bet you think that Jon really cares about you” Tiffany’s false sweetness was giving Lindsay a toothache.<br /><br />“Yeah, as if he would.” Buffy sneered. “You do realize that you’re just not in his league don’t you?”<br /><br />“Oh he may pretend that he cares now, but it won’t last. He’s still recovering from the divorce. Just wait until he goes on tour and is reminded of what he can have.” Tiffany twisted the knife.<br /><br />“Someone like you, you mean.” Lindsay retorted. The other two just looked at each other and smiled. “And you know him so well, that you know what he’s thinking and feeling. What type of woman he likes, what turns him on.”<br /><br />“Well, come on let’s face it. You’re no model or bunny sweetheart.” Buffy pointed out. “And if he really cared he would have bought you something a little more valuable than that necklace. Yeesh, a superman logo, how lame is that? No, you better enjoy him now, because your time with him is coming to an end real soon.”<br /><br />Lindsay reached up to touch her necklace and smiled. “Do you know what this necklace means?”<br /><br />“Like, Buffy said, it’s the superman logo. It matches his tattoo. That’s just too cute.” Tiffany replied sarcastically.<br /><br />“You said your dates are longtime BJM staff?” Lindsay clarified. The women both nodded. “Then maybe you should ask them what the significance of this necklace is. “<br /><br />She started to turn to walk away, then stopped. “I appreciate your wanting to prevent me from getting hurt, but you’ll have to forgive me if I trust Jon’s words over yours. You see, while you <strong>think</strong> you know him from some stories you’ve heard, I <strong>do</strong> know him – intimately. I don’t think he cares about me, I know he does. And he continues to prove it to me everyday. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have guests to attend to.”<br /><br />Turning on her heel she walked away congratulating herself on not losing her cool. Looking up, she saw Richie, David, and Jon standing there, obviously having heard her conversation by the looks on their faces.<br /><br />Jon walked towards her, smiled and kissed her – very thoroughly. “Nicely done.” He murmured. She smiled back.<br /><br />“Lindsay we need you to settle an argument.” David came up, putting his arm around her shoulders to urge her into the living room room. She hesitated when she saw Jon and Richie heading for the two women.<br /><br />Jon looked first Tiffany, then Buffy over very thoroughly. “It ain’t gonna happen. Not with you. Not ever. I prefer women with beauty, brains, and a caring heart.” He looked them over again. “One out of three just doesn’t cut it.” With that he walked away.<br /><br />Richie tried not to laugh at their stunned expressions. “He is more than just a pretty face you know.” He scowled at them. “You see, we’ve had enough of what you have to offer thrown at us over the years to know that it means absolutely nothing, except a quick lay. Beauty like yours is-literally- only skin deep. We’re not that shallow. If I were you I would find my dates and leave. And you should advise them that in future, they would do better to find women who were smart enough to at least know better than to insult the boss and his girlfriend.” Shaking his head he followed his friends.<br /><br />Catching up with Lindsay, Jon stopped her so he could see into her eyes. “Are you okay honey?” The concern in his eyes warmed her heart.<br /><br />She smiled. “I’m fine. In fact, I feel great!”<br /><br />He chuckled. “Yup, nothing like a little ass kicking to get the adrenaline flowing!”<br /><br />Laughing, they turned back to their guests.<br /><br />When midnight arrived they toasted each other and their friends. Kissing her softly Jon gazed down at her. “Happy New Year Lindsay.”<br /><br />“Happy New Year Jon.” She smiled gently at him, then squealed as Richie grabbed her, kissed her and passed her on.<br /><br /><br />Later, after all the guests had left, Jon and Lindsay left the guys to their own devices and headed for bed.<br /><br />Standing in front of the bathroom mirror, Lindsay was brushing her teeth when Jon walked in wearing only pajama pants.<br /><br />“So that’s where my pajama top went.” He grinned as he met her eyes in the mirror. She grinned back around her toothbrush.<br /><br />“I think everything went well tonight.” He lightly gripped her waist with both hands, bent and kissed her neck just below her ear. She tilted her head to give him more access. “You handled those bimbos like a pro.”<br /><br />Leaning forward to spit in the sink she gasped and almost choked when she felt his hands slide under the hem of the pajama top to cup her bottom – she wasn’t wearing panties. Quickly rinsing her mouth and standing upright again, she went to move, but he held her still.<br /><br />“Uh uh, I think I like you right here.” His voice had deepened and when she met his eyes again in the mirror she could she how dark they had become.<br /><br />Smiling, she leaned back against him. Together they watched his hands stroke her body over and over, pausing now and then to cup and gently knead her breasts, plucked at her stiffened nipples through the material of the top.<br /><br />When she would have turned to face him, he shook his head. “Stay like this….watch”<br /><br />Keeping his gaze on the mirror he raised his hands to slowly undo the buttons on her top. Reaching the bottom he spread the halves wide to bare her to his view. Then he started stroking her all over again.<br /><br />Watching his hands and feeling their effect at the same time was wrecking havoc with her senses, turning her on more that she thought possible. Her skin felt like every nerve ending was on the surface. She was sure that between the heat from his hands on her front and his chest on her back she was going to burst into flames – or end up a puddle on the floor. Chest heaving, she fought for each breath and shuddered with the sensations he was evoking.<br /><br />Cupping her breast with one hand he prodded her nipple with his thumb. His other hand smoothed over her abdomen down to the apex of her thighs. Threading his fingers through her curls he stroked her lightly.<br /><br />Moaning, she let her eyes drift shut. His hands stilled. “No. Keep watching.” He rasped in her ear. Desperate for him to continue she forced her eyes open again. Feeling off balance she reached behind her for an anchor and gripped his thighs, feeling them tighten even more under her hands. Unable to help herself, her hips started to move thrusting against his hand.<br /><br />He understood her silent request and obliged, reaching deeper and penetrating her with two fingers. Moving them slowly in and out he watched as he pleasured her, his gaze alternating between her face and his hand. The sight of her flushed skin, glazed eyes and heaving breasts, not to mention the feel of her body undulating against him, was slowly eroding his control. <br /><br />Easing her away from him he pulled the pajama top from her and threw it on the floor. His pants followed. Pressing back against her, he bent her forward slightly until she braced herself with her hands on the vanity counter. Gripping her hip with one hand he positioned himself with the other and nudged inside. She gasped. He held still. “Watch.” His voice was a mere rumble. Shaking, she obeyed. Adjusting his grip on her, he slid slowly inside her, watching her eyes dilate at the sensations bombarding her. <br /><br />“God you feel good.” He groaned. And he started to move.<br /><br />At first he watched her body match his rhythm, then his eyes locked on her face cataloguing every nuance of her response.<br /><br />Fighting through the sensations threatening to overwhelm her, she focused on the scene visible in the mirror in front of her. Her own flushed face and body moving in time with his, his intense look of concentration as he looked at her. Then their eyes met, locked. And he increased his speed.<br /><br />Both moaning and gasping for breath, they reached for the peak, and reached it together, eyes still locked.<br /><br />Bracing his legs, he pulled her upright, wrapped his arms around her and held her tight while they both panted and felt the ripples of the aftershocks course through their bodies.<br /><br />When he finally had the strength, he picked her up and carried her to bed. Curling into him she reached up and caressed his cheek.<br /><br />“Your way of celebrating holidays just may be the death of me.” She commented.<br /><br />He chuckled. “Want me to stop?”<br /><br />“Not on your life!” She managed to look horrified at the thought. Then she smiled and kissed him. “I find I’m becoming addicted.”<br /><br />“Mmmm. I know the feeling.” He agreed, running his hand down her back from her shoulder to her hip. He pulled her closer. “This may be the best year yet…it’s certainly off to one hell of a start.”<br /><br />She chuckled, murmured her agreement, then settled her head on his shoulder, her hand over his heart and let sleep overtake her.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2233992774788831133.post-62332037781231457092008-11-05T19:04:00.000-08:002008-11-05T19:14:28.150-08:00Chapter 43After clearing customs, they picked up their rental car and Lindsay pointed out the sights on the way to her hometown. Watching her face as they drove down the main street he smiled indulgently. “Do you want to stop?”<br /><br />Turning to him she blushed a little. “Would you mind? I have this incredible urge to show off my town to you…and show you off to them.” She admitted.<br /><br />They spent a pleasant hour roaming through the shops, stopping every few minutes to speak to people who called out greetings to Lindsay.<br /><br />“Do you know everyone in this town?” He murmured.<br /><br />“Pretty much. It’s a small town and I was born and raised here.” She answered waving at her parents’ neighbour who had called out to her from across the street.<br /><br />“I’m beginning to understand how you must feel when we go anywhere together.” He muttered. She laughed.<br /><br />“Lindsay, is that really you?” A voice spoke from behind them.<br /><br />Turning Lindsay grinned “Tonia? Oh my God! It’s been years! How are you?” She hugged her old school chum.<br /><br />“I’m good. Kids are driving me nuts as usual. Still with the old man. I hear you have a new one though.” She answered.<br /><br />Chuckling, Lindsay took the hint and turned to introduce them.<br /><br />“Jon, this is Tonia Davidson. We’ve known each other since we were little. In fact, the first time I saw you guys in concert was the Slippery tour with Tonia.” She grinned anticipating Tonia’s reaction to finally meeting Jon.<br /><br />“Hi Tonia, nice to meet you.” Jon smiled and held out his hand.<br /><br />“Holy fuck!” She shook his hand then hid her face in her hands. He laughed and impulsively gave her a quick hug.<br /><br />“In case you didn’t notice, Tonia is a bit of a fan.” Lindsay laughed.<br /><br />“Bite me Linds.” Came from behind the hands.<br /><br />They talked for a few minutes more and Tonia got herself together enough to actually look at Jon… and find something for him to sign, then Jon and Lindsay headed to her parents house.<br /><br />Walking up to the front door they spied the tree leaning up against the house. Jon glanced at Lindsay and gave a resigned sigh. “So, am I back in the tree business again?”<br /><br />She grinned. “But, honey, you do it so well…and you hardly swear at all!”<br /><br />“That’s because the kids were there.”<br /><br />They were still laughing when she opened the door. “Mom, Dad?”<br /><br />“We’re down here Lindsay.” Her mother called from the basement.<br /><br />Leading the way down the stairs Lindsay found her parents trying to rearrange furniture to make room for the tree.<br /><br />“Here, let me help you with that.” Jon rushed over to help Lindsay’s dad move a huge recliner chair.<br /><br />“Thanks.”<br /><br />“Mom, Dad , this is Jon Bongiovi. Jon, my parents, Bob and Lorraine Chandler.”<br /><br />“Nice to meet you.” Jon said shaking hands with both of them.<br /><br />“So you’re the rock star.” Lorraine commented.<br /><br />Jon smiled and nodded. “I guess.”<br /><br />Bob looked at him for a moment. “How are you at putting up Christmas trees?”<br /><br />For the next several hours the four of them worked to prepare for the next day and talked. Bob and Jon put up the tree – with only a little swearing when it almost fell over, Lindsay and Lorraine decorated it – after Jon had put on the lights, much to Lindsay’s delight since she had been stuck with that job for the last few years and she hated it, then Jon helped Lindsay place all the presents underneath it.<br /><br />Lorraine and Lindsay made the stuffing and as much of the preparations for dinner as they could do this far ahead. When they were alone in the kitchen, Lorraine decided it was a good time to question her daughter on her new situation.<br /><br />“So what’s the story with you and the rock star?” Lorraine asked.<br /><br />“Mom, he has a name.” Lindsay complained.<br /><br />“Don’t change the subject.”<br /><br />Lindsay sighed and rinsed her hands off. “I don’t know where this is going, Mom, I just know that I’m happier than I’ve ever been in my life. His lifestyle is crazy, and the media is a pain in the ass, but his kids are great, and…he makes me feel special.”<br /><br />“Do you love him?” Lorraine asked even though she could see the answer in her daughter’s eyes.<br /><br />“With all my heart.” Came the response she expected.<br /><br />“And does he love you?”<br /><br />“With all of my heart and soul.” Jon answered from behind them.<br /><br />Turning, Lorraine studied him for a minute, assessed the way the two younger people were looking at each other, then nodded. “Good.”<br /><br /><br />When everything was done, Jon and Lindsay prepared to leave. Lorraine would have preferred that they stayed at the house, but understood that they would like to be alone.<br /><br />“We’ll see you two in the morning.”<br /><br />“What time is everyone arriving?” Lindsay asked.<br /><br />“About ten if Barb can get Doug moving.” She answered.<br /><br />“So that means more like eleven for them.” Lindsay laughed, knowing her eldest brother well. “Ok see you then.”<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 44<br /></span><br />Back at the hotel they decided to order room service and exchange their gifts to each other. Hanging up the phone, Jon turned to Lindsay and grinned.<br /><br />“What?” She asked warily.<br /><br />Without answering he got up and pulled a beautifully wrapped box out from under the bed. “Why don’t you open this while we’re waiting for dinner?”<br /><br />“Ooh, you’re sneaky! I didn’t even see you bring that in!”<br /><br />“What’s the matter?” He asked when she didn’t open it immediately.<br /><br />“It’s so pretty, I almost hate to open it.” She answered.<br /><br />He laughed. “I bet you’ll like what’s inside even better.”<br /><br />The heat in his eyes gave her a pretty good idea of what she’d find in the box.<br /><br />Opening it slowly she smiled at his barely concealed impatience. “Is this for me or for you?”<br /><br />His smile turned down right sultry. “It’s for both of us.”<br /><br />Taking the lid off the box, Lindsay moved aside some tissue paper and had her suspicions confirmed. Lifting out the lingerie she murmured in appreciation. The rich blue silk would accent her eyes. The corset style of the teddy would lift and cup her breasts, showing them to advantage, while emphasizing the dip of her waist. The robe – if you could call it that – that came with it was long and transparent blue gauze edged in matching silk with a silk sash tie.<br /><br />“Oh Jon it’s beautiful.” She breathed. “Thank you.”<br /><br />“It will be even more so with you in it.” His eyes were shining. She blushed at the compliment.<br /><br />Walking over to her suitcase she pulled out two packages. Laying the larger one on a table she handed him the smaller one. “This isn’t your main present – I’m saving that one for after dinner.”<br /><br />Removing the wrapping he lifted the lid from the box, revealing the necklace with its leather cord and shimmering guitar pendant.<br /><br />“Hey, that’s cool!” He kept tilting it to watch the light reflect off the coloured stones. “Thank you.” He leaned over and kissed her.<br /><br />A knock at the door signaled the arrival of their dinner. “Why don’t you get changed into something more comfortable while I get dinner set up?” He gestured towards the open box in front of her and grinned.<br /><br />Grinning back she scooped up the box and headed for the bathroom. Looking at herself in the mirror attired in her gift, Lindsay was frankly a little shocked. She had never looked sexier. <em>Damn he’s good at this!<br /></em><br />Peeking out first to make sure the waiter had left, she exited the bathroom. “I am almost afraid to ask how you knew what size to buy?”<br /><br />Turning, he froze, his gaze licking over her from head to toe and back again. “Wow!” Walking over to her he reached out, undid the tie and spread the robe open to have an unimpeded view of her. “Even better than I anticipated.” Glancing up at her face he realized she was waiting for an answer. It took him a couple minutes to remember the question. “Oh, the sales clerk was really good. I described you with my hands and she took measurements and said she thought this would fit. She was right.” Spanning her waist with his hands he pulled her close and kissed her, softly at first, then more thoroughly.<br /><br />Chuckling she broke the kiss and pushed him back. “Cool your jets big boy. Dinner first, then I want you to open your present…..then we’ll see about thanking you properly for mine.”<br /><br />Sighing, he raked a hand through his hair. Leading her to the table he sat her formally, then took his seat across from her.<br /><br />Dinner was a slow torture. The food was probably excellent, but it could have been sawdust for all the notice either one gave it. They talked, but neither one could have said what the topic was. Lindsay’s focus was continually disrupted by the sight of Jon’s chest peeking out of the shirt he had undone almost to his waist. In return, Jon’s gaze kept straying over the vision she presented to him across the table, making him shift position often to try to ease the tightness in his pants. Watching him squirm, knowing the reason why, caused her to do some squirming of her own.<br /><br />Finally, when they could eat no more she covered the plates and loaded them back onto the tray, which Jon placed in the hallway. Turning back he made a detour to his suitcase before returning to is seat at the table.<br /><br />When he had sat Lindsay handed him his present. Smiling he handed her the small box he had pulled from his bag. Setting it on the table in front of her she watched him, wanting to see his reaction.<br /><br />Lifting the lid off of the box he saw sheet music and it took him a minute to realize what he was looking at. Taking the pages out carefully he skimmed over them, stunned. “My God Lindsay, where did you find this?”<br /><br />“Janet helped me with that. She knew about your standing request to be told if anyone saw Dylan memorabilia. I had also told her that I was looking for something special for Christmas for you. When she saw this hand notated sheet music she verified that it was legit and called me.” She explained.<br /><br />“It must have cost you a fortune!”<br /><br />She shrugged. “Not too bad. Janet negotiated the deal. You might want to think about having her negotiate your contracts…she’s a real tiger.” She paused. “So you like it?”<br /><br />“Like it? I love it! And I’ll show you how much, just as soon as you open yours.” His eyes were glowing like sapphires lit from within.<br /><br />Trying to ignore the shiver of anticipation that ran down her spine, she grinned and grabbed the box. Ripping off the paper, she lifted the lid and gasped as her breath caught in her throat. “I thought you didn’t do this anymore.” Her voice was just above a whisper.<br /><br />“I don’t, but I wanted to give you something special too, and with everything you’ve been through I thought you would appreciate it. This way you can never doubt that you’re in the inner circle….you are <strong>my</strong> inner circle.”<br /><br />Eyes shining with tears she reached out with a reverent fingertip to trace the superman symbol pendant of the necklace.<br /><br />Reaching across the table he took the box from her hand. “Come here.”<br /><br />Rising, she rounded the table and settled herself on his lap, turning so that he could fasten the necklace around her neck. Touching the pendant where it lay at her throat she looked up at him with her heart in her eyes. “Thank you.” She whispered.<br /><br />“You’re welcome.” He sipped at the tears caught in her lashes. “I love you.”<br /><br />With a small cry she threw her arms around him and buried her face in his neck. “Oh Jon, I love you so much that sometimes it scares me!”<br /><br />He squeezed her tight. “Sssh, sweetheart. Don’t be scared. I’m not going anywhere.”<br /><br />Leaning back slightly she gazed at his lips and licked her own. <br /><br />“Let me.” Bending, he traced her lips with the tip of his tongue. When she parted them for him he accepted her invitation and tasted her thoroughly.<br /><br />Moaning softly she leaned into him and slipped her hands inside his shirt to explore his chest. Frustrated by his shirt that kept getting in the way she sat up to pull the tails out of his pants and push it off his shoulders. Leaning forward he removed it and threw it aside.<br /><br />Sinking back into the kiss she let her hands roam his chest. She felt as much as heard the groan in his chest when she reached his hardened nipples. Breaking the kiss she leaned back to watch her fingers. When he would have pulled her back she shook her head and pushed his hands away. “No, not yet. I want to touch you.”<br /><br />One hand slid down over his tight abs to his waistband and below, stroking him through his jeans. Moaning he let his head fall back exposing his neck. Stretching up she licked his adam’s apple, then bit it lightly. He shivered in response. Continuing downward she kissed a path to his chest where she teased first one nipple then the other with her tongue.<br /><br />Sliding off his lap she pushed his legs apart until she could kneel in between them. Reaching up to rub his nipples with her fingers she licked and sucked her way down his abs, circling his navel with her tongue several times before finally dipping the tip into the sensitive indentation. Opening his belt and jeans, she surveyed her prize. Glancing up at his face she smiled wickedly while he gazed at her helplessly and gripped the arms of the chair tightly. At her tug he lifted his hips slightly so that she could slide his jeans over them.<br /><br />Wrapping one hand around him she cupped his sac with the other squeezing rhythmically. Running her tongue up the underside of his shaft from base to tip she chuckled when she heard his barely stifled shout. Licking the tip like a lollipop, she flicked her tongue along the slit tasting the drop he couldn’t hold back.<br /><br />Groaning, his hands fisted in the hair on either side of her head, but he didn’t have the strength or the will to pull her away. When she sucked the tip into her mouth his hands tightened involuntarily. “Oh God, sugar, stop. You’re going to make me lose control!” He gasped.<br /><br />She raised her head just enough to answer. “No, not this time. This time, I want it all.”<br /><br />He shivered at the feel of her breath caressing his most sensitive flesh. When she lowered her head again, his whole body tightened. Unable to stop her he helplessly watched through slitted eyes as she devoured him. Reaching the end of his endurance he went rigid and with a throttled shout gave her what she asked for.<br /><br />Sitting back on her heels she smiled smugly while she waited for him to catch his breath. Removing his jeans completely so he didn’t trip when he stood she removed her robe as well – she was too warm to need it.<br /><br />“Your turn.” He promised as he stood, helped her to her feet and led her to the bed. Lifting her he laid her in the centre and stretched out beside her his head resting on one hand. With the other he lightly caressed her body from collarbone to thigh. The calluses on his fingertips leaving goosebumps in their wake. When she shivered in response he glanced up at her eyes and smiled. With thumb and finger he plucked at the hard kernels of her nipples, his smile deepening as her back arched. Leaning down he licked her nipples dampening the silk that covered them until it faithfully outlined her flesh. Then he toyed with the nubs with his teeth, listening to her gasps before taking first one, then the other deep in his mouth and suckled hard. She cried out.<br /><br />Leaning back again he watched his hand stroke down her body to play with the snaps that held the teddy closed at the juncture of her thighs, probing gently between with one finger. Her hips lifted towards his teasing hand silently asking for more.<br /><br />“Jon please!” She panted.<br /><br />Tugging harder on the snaps he popped them open, pulled the silk upwards and slid it completely from her body, leaving her bare and trembling beside him.<br /><br />Spreading her thighs wide he wedged his shoulders in between holding her open for his next assault. Gently stroking her with his fingers he watched her beautiful body undulate. Holding her open he replaced his fingers with his tongue driving her higher.<br /><br />“Oh God, now, Jon, now, please!” She cried.<br /><br />Chuckling he obliged. Sliding two fingers deep inside her, he captured her ultrasensitive nub of flesh with his teeth. Sucking hard, he thrust his fingers in and out of her in a matching rhythm. She screamed as she reached for the stars.<br /><br />Not giving her a chance to recover he quickly raised up and buried himself inside her, savouring the feel of the ripples of her climax around him. Holding still for only a moment he started driving hard and fast into her pushing her back up the mountain of desire that she had barely started to descend.<br /><br />“Jesus Jon, stop, not yet, I can’t, it’s too soon, you’re going to kill me!” She could barely speak.<br /><br />“Yes you can, just let go. Let your body do what comes naturally.” He was panting already himself.<br /><br />Helpless to do anything else, she wrapped her arms and legs around him and surrendered herself to his loving. Within moments she was cresting the mountain again, but this time he was with her. Their mingled cries echoed around the room.<br /><br />Slowly coming back to earth she stroked his back. Kissing her neck, he lifted off her rolling onto his back and pulling her close. Settling her head on his shoulder she ran her fingers through his chest hair. Taking a deep breath she raised up and kissed him softly, but thoroughly. <br /><br />Glancing at the clock she smiled. “Merry Christmas Jon.”<br /><br />Pulling her back down for another kiss he released her and settled her more comfortably against him. “Merry Christmas Lindsay.”<br /><br />Laying her hand over his heart she drifted off into an exhausted slumber. He followed close behind.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 45</span><br /><br />The next day was hectic, stressful, yet fun as only a family gathering can be. Lindsay’s family welcomed Jon with only slight awkwardness when she first introduced him. Her parents might not have been familiar with Bon Jovi, but her brothers and their families certainly were. They soon realized though that Jon was just a regular guy.<br /><br />“Aunt Lindsay.” Her eleven year old niece Alexis tugged on her arm.<br /><br />“Yes Lex.” Her aunt answered.<br /><br />“He’s really cute!” Alexis whispered loudly.<br /><br />Lindsay laughed. “I think so too.” She whispered back. Jon actually blushed.<br /><br />Handing Lindsay a present a few minutes later, Alexis’ mother Barb leaned close. “Way to go Linds. I want the details later.” She murmured.<br /><br />She was sitting beside him on the couch checking out the shirts her mother had insisted on buying for him, when Mark’s thirteen year old daughter Kelly came up to visit with her aunt. Reaching out a finger she touched Lindsay’s necklace.<br /><br />“I like your necklace Aunt Lindsay. Where did you get it?” she asked.<br /><br />“Jon gave it to me.” Her aunt replied.<br /><br />“Why the superman logo? Do you like super heroes or something?”<br /><br />Debating how to explain, Lindsay realized that she was on Jon’s left side. Quickly checking to make sure her dad wasn’t close by, she lifted Jon’s sleeve.<br /><br />“Cool! You match!” Kelly exclaimed. <br /><br />Jon slanted a look at Lindsay and winked. “We certainly do.” She smiled back at him.<br /><br />Getting up to go help with dinner she saw her oldest nephew Kevin take her seat on the couch. The two were quickly deep in discussion. “Kevin don’t pester Jon too much.”<br /><br />He gave her an exasperated look. “We’re just talking music Aunt Lindsay.”<br /><br />“I know, that’s my point. Once the two of you get going, you’ll forget the rest of us exist!” She shook her head. “Musicians!”<br /><br />“You say that like you don’t love us!” Kevin called after her.<br /><br />Entering the kitchen she was immediately bombarded with questions from her sisters-in-law.<br /><br />“So what’s the scoop here Linds?” Mark’s wife Kim asked. “Where did you meet the Rock God?”<br /><br />Lindsay smiled. “I was working on a missing person case and had to question him.” <br />Understanding that she couldn’t talk about a case they let it go.<br /><br />“So is he as good as he looks?” Barb couldn’t resist asking.<br /><br />“Barb!” Lorraine acted scandalized, but she could still appreciate a tight butt.<br /><br />Lindsay just grinned and blushed. “Not telling!”<br /><br />Kim chuckled. “You don’t have to, it’s written all over your face.”<br /><br /><br />Downstairs Jon promised Kevin he could come to the next show the guys did in Toronto, and he’d introduce him to Tico and the rest of the band. “You can come early and watch us set up. I’m no good on the drums, but I’m sure Teek would be happy to answer all your questions and give you some tips.”<br /><br />“Great! Thanks Jon!” Kevin jumped up to go tell his brother Nick all about Jon’s plan.<br /><br />Glancing up Jon saw Doug and Mark heading towards him. <em>Uh oh, here come the protective older brothers!<br /></em><br />Mark started the interrogation. “So…you’re dating my sister.” Jon nodded. “You clean?”<br />Jon stared at him, stunned. Mark shrugged. “Sorry if you think I’m out of line, but I know what goes on at rock concerts. She’s my sister and I need to know that she’s safe.”<br /><br />Jon smiled ruefully. “I gave up that craziness a long time ago. I’m clean. Nothing more contagious than the odd cold. She’s the only woman in my life.”<br /><br />“Do you love her?” Doug asked.<br /><br />Jon looked him in the eye. “Yes.” He answered simply. <br /><br />Doug studied his face for a minute, then nodded, satisfied. “Hurt her and you’ll answer to us.”<br /><br /><br />Coming down the stairs to call the men to the table Lindsay saw that her brothers had Jon cornered. “Oh for heavens sake! Stop trying to play the tough guys! Dinner’s ready.” Pushing them out of the way she grabbed Jon’s hand and led him upstairs. “Just ignore them.” She advised. But Jon knew better. Their performance may have been a little over the top, but the message was clear. They would protect their little sister from any man who threatened her well being. Having a daughter, he could appreciate the sentiment.<br /><br />Dinner conversation was merely an excuse to further the interrogation, although in a more civilized manner.<br /><br />“So how did the two of you meet?” Doug asked, not being privy to the girls’ kitchen conversation.<br /><br />Lindsay hesitated, but Jon didn’t. “My daughter ran away for a few days, and Lindsay found her.”<br /><br />Lindsay looked at him surprised. He smiled.<br /><br />“It’s ok. My family knows, and it’s only fair that yours does too.” He glanced around the table. “I would appreciate it if you didn’t spread that around though. Who knows what the media would do with that kind of information.” <br /><br />Everyone nodded their understanding.<br /><br />“So how many kids do you have?” Kelly asked.<br /><br />“Four.” Jon answered. “One girl and three boys.”<br /><br />“Just like us!” Alexis exclaimed looking at her three older brothers.<br /><br />“Yes, except Jon’s daughter is the oldest.” Lindsay explained.<br /><br />“Must be nice.” Alexis grumbled.<br /><br />“She doesn’t think so.” Jon chuckled.<br /><br />“I heard your new single on the radio the other day.” Mark’s son Craig spoke up. “Not bad.”<br /><br />“Thanks.” Jon smiled.<br /><br />“Are you going on tour soon?” Doug’s third son Patrick asked.<br /><br />“Yeah, in January.” Jon answered and reaching down squeezed Lindsay’s hand. She smiled and squeezed back.<br /><br />“When are you coming to Toronto?” His older brother Nick asked.<br /><br />“I’m not sure, I’d have to check the schedule, but I think maybe late March or early April, and then maybe again in July.”<br /><br />“Can we come?” Alexis pleaded almost jumping out of her chair.<br /><br />“Alexis!” her mother admonished her.<br /><br />Jon just laughed. “I think we can arrange something. I already promised Kevin he could come and get a first hand look at an international tour set up.”<br /><br />“So you’re going to be on the road for quite awhile.” Lorraine commented shooting a glance at Lindsay.<br /><br />“Well, the winter leg we stay in North America and I get home at least once every couple of weeks or so, then we have about a month off before we head to Europe for two months. Then back to North America for the summer leg.” Jon explained, making no excuses for his lifestyle.<br /><br />“I’m really looking forward to getting a glimpse into what tour life is like, even if it’s only for a few shows.” Lindsay stated, trying to assure her mother that she was fine with the situation.<br /><br />Understanding her daughter’s message, Lorraine smiled and shook her head. “My daughter the groupie!”<br /><br />“Hey, I’m not a groupie! I don’t <strong>follow</strong> the band, I travel <strong>with</strong> them!” Everyone laughed.<br /><br /><br />All too soon it was time to go.<br /><br />“Why do you have to leave so soon?” Alexis pouted.<br /><br />“Because we have to catch our flight back to New Jersey so that we can have Christmas with Jon’s family tomorrow.” Lindsay explained.<br /><br />“Hey, we’ll see you again soon. You’re coming to the concert, remember.” Jon was familiar with young girls pouting because he had to leave.<br /><br />“Yeah, I guess.” She grumbled. Impulsively she threw her arms around Jon’s waist and hugged him. Smiling he hugged her back.<br /><br />Hugging and kissing everyone goodbye, they finally managed to escape out the door. Releasing a sigh, Jon started the car and headed for the airport.<br /><br />Hearing him Lindsay turned to look at him. “I’m sorry. I warned you they were overwhelming.”<br /><br />Reaching out with his free hand he picked up one of hers and laced their fingers together, and raising it, kissed her fingers. “They were fine. Not as tough as I was expecting, actually…except maybe your brothers. And the kids were great.”<br /><br />She frowned. “What did my brothers say to you anyway? It looked like they were auditioning for the Sopranos to me.”<br /><br />He laughed. “Naw, they were just being protective older brothers. I wouldn’t have expected any less. I figure I’m going to be the same –or worse – with Stephanie.”<br /><br />When she continued to frown he squeezed her hand. “Hey, seriously, I like your family!”<br /><br />She shook her head. “Now I know you love me to say that and actually mean it!”<br /><br /><br />Boarding the plane right behind her, Jon wouldn’t let Lindsay near the table, but pushed her towards a couch, ignoring her protests.<br /><br />“You can go over your lists again when we get home. For now I want you to try and take a nap. We’ve got another busy day ahead of us tomorrow, and neither one of us got much sleep last night.” He waggled his eyebrows at her and she had to laugh. “And I need you well rested to help me deal with <strong>my</strong> family!<br /><br />Chuckling she gave in. Once the seat belt sign went off she stretched out on the sofa with him and using his chest as a pillow drifted off to sleep listening to the soothing steady beat of his heart.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2233992774788831133.post-31737441807974748272008-11-04T21:43:00.000-08:002008-11-04T21:51:05.013-08:00Chapter 40The next Friday evening Lindsay entered Jon’s office to find him, as usual, on the phone. He looked up as she approached his desk and smiled. When he raised a brow in question she shook her head. Careful not to mix anything up she started searching around his desk. When she came around to his side to check she had to stifle a squeal as he grabbed her around the waist and pulled her onto his lap, while still continuing his conversation.<br /><br />Smiling secretly to herself she decided that two could play that game. Leaning forward as she continued to search his desk she pushed her butt more deeply into his lap, smirking when she heard his quickly indrawn breath.<br /><br />“Uh, Paul, can I call you back in a bit? Something just came up here.” <em>Something came up indeed!</em> “No, no it’s fine, I just need to call you back. Thanks. Bye.”<br /><br />Wrapping both arms around her waist to hold her still he asked. “ok, missy, just <strong>what</strong> are you looking for?”<br /><br />“This!” Pulling his daytimer out from under a pile of papers, she waved it in triumph. Turning to the next day’s page she studied his schedule. “So you’re going to be around the house tomorrow, you don’t have to go anywhere?”<br /><br />“Nope, I’ll be home all day. Why?” He sucked in another breath as she squirmed a little to get more comfortable.<br /><br />“Can I borrow your car then?” She asked.<br /><br />“Sure. Where are you going?” He was curious. He would willingly give her anything he had, but she rarely asked for anything, even something as minor as this.<br /><br />“I’m taking the kids Christmas shopping and I can’t fit all of them and Romeo’s car seat in my car.” She answered.<br /><br />His brows rose. “You’re taking <strong>all</strong> of them?”<br /><br />She turned to look at him over her shoulder and sighed in exasperation. “Yes, I’m taking all of them. Dorothea acted like I’d lost my mind too when I asked if I could take them. Why does everyone think that it’s so strange? Don’t you think I can handle it?”<br /><br />“Sshhh, sweetheart.” He urged her to lie back against him. “It’s not that I don’t think you can handle it, it’s more that you would want to.”<br /><br />That just confused her more. “Why wouldn’t I? It’s not like they’re little hellions. Steph and Jesse don’t need much looking after and they’re always good to help with the little ones.”<br /><br />“Not many women would take on a task like that for someone else’s kids, that’s all.” He explained.<br /><br />“It’s not a task. It’s fun. And they’re not ‘someone else’s kids’. They’re <strong>your</strong> kids.” She argued.<br /><br />He smiled at her vehemence, and kissed her temple. “I know, and the fact that you look at it as fun, and that you want to spend time with my kids just adds to what I love about you.”<br /><br />Feeling the anger drain out her she relaxed back against him. Turning her head she kissed him lightly. “I love you too.”<br /><br />Sitting up again she attempted to move off his lap. “I’d better let you get back to work.”<br /><br />He wouldn’t let her up. “Oh no, you need to finish what you started first.” When she looked at him in confusion he pressed her hips down and thrust his up slightly.<br /><br />She grinned. “I didn’t start that…<strong>you</strong> did.” He raised a brow at her. “I didn’t choose to sit on your lap, you put me here. However,” She moved her hips in a circular motion forcing a groan from his throat. “I’ll be more than happy to finish it.”<br /><br />Suddenly their position caused visions of the video for Queen of New Orleans to flash through her head. Her smile turned just a little devilish.<br /><br />Taking his hands she placed them on the arms of the chair. “Leave them there.”<br /><br />Having changed into sweats when she got home from work, it was the work of only a few moments to slip them off along with her sweatshirt, leaving her in bra and lace panties. Humming, she turned to face him and straddled his legs. Gyrating her hips she put her hands on the top of the back of the chair. Leaning forward she brushed her breasts across his face. Once. Twice. Three times.<br /><br />At first he was a little stunned at her performance. Then he recognized the tune she was humming. Understanding now what was expected of him he grinned and sat back to enjoy.<br /><br />Sitting upright again she continued undulating her lower body while she ran her hands over her breasts. She watched his eyes follow her hands and reveled in the flames of desire she saw there.<br /><br />Reaching out she slowly unbuttoned his shirt and spread it wide open. She ran her fingertips lightly over the taut muscles and watched his chest heave as his breathing shortened. Trailing her fingers down further, she teased him through his pants. He groaned.<br /><br />Turning around she sat on his lap and leaned back against his chest. Pressing her hips down she continued to swivel them, and added some shoulder motion rubbing them back and forth across his bare skin.<br /><br />Clenching his fists in an effort not to grab her and end his torture he closed his eyes and leaned his head back. As she continued her movements he was unable to stop the ravaged moan that erupted from his very core.<br /><br />“Jesus Lindsay, you’re killing me!”<br /><br />Her only response was a low, sultry laugh. Leaning fully back against him she raised her arms to run her fingers through his hair. Pulling his head down she turned until she could reach his mouth with hers. The tip of her tongue came out to trace his lips, teasing him until he parted them for her. When he did she swept inside and tasted him deeply.<br /><br />Reaching behind her she popped open the button on his jeans. With two fingertips she probed underneath the denim. His hips bucked in response.<br /><br />He tore his mouth away from hers. “That does it.” He panted.<br /><br />Grabbing her hips he lifted her slightly so that he could reach his zipper and release his now aching erection. Stripping off her panties, he checked to make sure she was ready for him. Finding her swollen and drenched he impaled her in his lap.<br /><br />Releasing her hips he cupped her breasts, teasing her taut nipples with his fingers while she resumed her gyrations.<br /><br />“Oh, God, Jon!” she gasped arching her back, pushing her breasts more firmly into his hands.<br /><br />Sliding one hand down her ribcage and over her belly he reached between her legs to caress her lightly in time with her movements.<br /><br />“Mmmmm, yes.” She moaned reaching down to press him more firmly against her sensitive flesh.<br /><br />Unable to help herself she started moving faster. “Please Jon, now!”<br />In response he grasped her hips, held her down and thrust upwards. Hard. Once. Twice. Three times.<br /><br />She screamed as the world exploded.<br /><br />Wrapping his arms tightly around her, he held her as they shuddered together.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 41</span><br /><br />“Honey, we need to talk about Christmas.” Lindsay sighed as she set down the lists she had been going over.<br /><br />“What about it?” Jon replied looking up from the contracts he’d been reading. Leaning his head back against the couch he turned to look at her sitting beside him.<br /><br />“Well, for starters, when are we going to celebrate it, where, and how?” She asked.<br /><br />“Dorothea has asked to have the kids Christmas Day, and after we got them Thanksgiving I thought that was only fair. We can do ours Boxing Day can’t we?” He replied.<br /><br />She nodded. “That works. I can be back by then.” She turned back to her lists.<br /><br />He frowned. “What do you mean you ‘can be back by then’? Back from where?”<br /><br />“Home.” She answered. When he didn’t say anything she glanced at him and saw the frown. “What? It’s Christmas. I have to go home for Christmas. But my family does everything Christmas Day, and Mom and Dad are both nearing 80, so we don’t stay very late anymore. I can be back here for Boxing Day.”<br /><br />His frown deepened. “When were you planning on leaving?”<br /><br />She could hear the anger in his voice. “I thought I’d leave Christmas Eve day in the morning. What’s wrong? Was there something you wanted me to do?”<br /><br />He shook his head and almost glared at her in a mixture of hurt and frustration. “Did it even cross your mind to ask me to go with you?”<br /><br />She eyed him warily. “Yes, but I didn’t think that you would want to leave the kids at Christmas.” She looked down at the pages in her lap. “And, I wasn’t sure you would want to go. My family can be a little overwhelming.” She admitted.<br /><br />He sighed. Setting aside the contracts he reached out to cup her chin in his hand, gently forcing her to look at him. “Hey, we’re in this together now. The kids will be busy at their mothers, and of course I want to go with you. As for overwhelming families…” He smiled wryly. “…well you’ve met mine, so why shouldn’t I meet yours?”<br /><br />“Are you sure?” She tried not to sound too hopeful.<br /><br />“Yes, I’m sure.” He tapped the tip of her nose with his finger. “Sweetheart, will you please do me one favour?”<br /><br />“Sure, what?” She asked.<br /><br />“Will you please, in future, try to remember that you are part of a couple now, and as the other half of that couple, as much as I want you included in my life, I want to be included in yours as well. I may not be able to be with you all the time, but I’d like to have the option. Besides, this is our first Christmas together. I don’t want to spend a minute of it apart.” He kissed her.<br /><br />“Ok, but don’t say I didn’t warn you. It’s a long drive in the timeframe we have, and my brothers are probably going to put you through the third degree – especially considering your profession.” She smiled happily.<br /><br />“Drive? Why would we drive?” He asked surprised.<br /><br />“Because it’s Christmas and we’ll never get a flight.” She answered.<br /><br />He chuckled. “Sugar, you should know better than that by now. Just let me know what time you want to leave and I’ll look after the rest.”<br /><br />Shaking her head she reached for her phone. “I’m definitely not used to this yet. Hi Mom, how are you? Good, I’m fine. I just wanted to let you know that I’m bringing someone home with me for Christmas.” She laughed. “Yes, the rock star. Well, yes Mom, it is pretty serious. I don’t know if we’re going to get married.” She closed her eyes and laid her head back against the couch her cheeks flaming.<br /><br />Jon chuckled and leaned over to kiss her cheek.<br /><br />“Yes, Mom, I’ll make sure they’re covered. No he’s only got three and their not huge. We’ll be coming in on Christmas Eve day and leaving Christmas night. We’ve got to be back here for Christmas with his family on Boxing Day. I know that’s not very long Mom, but it’s the best I…we… can do. No you don’t need to buy him any presents, I’ll take care of it. Yes, I’ll bring dessert. Ok, I’ll talk to you later. Bye.”<br /><br />“Ok, I’ll bite. What do I only have three of that aren’t huge?” He asked, curious.<br /><br />“Tattoos. My Dad has a real dislike for them, so we all have to keep them covered when he’s around.” She answered ruefully.<br /><br />“All? So you’re not the only one in your family with some ink?” He asked, amused.<br /><br />“Nope. My brother Mark has a small one on his shoulder blade, and my oldest nephew Kevin has several – I’ve lost count – across his shoulders and down his arms. Dad had a fit when he saw them. So…..it’s short sleeves and socks for you my friend.”<br /><br />“Short sleeves? In the winter? In Canada? How tough do you think I am?” He laughed.<br /><br />“So wear layers, because believe me, after about ten minutes in my mother’s house you’ll be sweating. She’s always cold, and keeps the heat jacked up.”<br /><br />He nodded. “Anything else I should be aware of?”<br /><br />“Well, Kevin is a drummer in a wanna be band, so be prepared to answer a lot of questions. Apparently they’ve got some big gig New Year’s Eve and he’s really excited. I’ll fill you in on the rest on the plane.”<br /><br />He suddenly looked uncomfortable. “Speaking of New Year’s Eve….there’s something I think I forgot to tell you.” <br /><br />She turned to look at him and raised a brow at him. “Oh?”<br /><br />“Yeah, umm, we’re hosting a party here. Not too big, just family and some close friends that I want you to meet.” He waited for the explosion.<br /><br />She swallowed hard, frantically trying to figure out how she would find the time to organize a big party on top of the shopping and cooking for two family Christmases. “How many people are we talking here?”<br /><br />“Only about fifty or so.” He assured her.<br /><br />She stared at him in disbelief. “JON!!” she wailed.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 42<br /></span><br />Boarding the private plane Lindsay took a minute to appreciate the luxury surrounding her. <em>Niiice. I could get used to this!</em> Sitting at a table she pulled out a stack of papers going over her lists yet again.<br /><br />Sitting on a couch, Jon shook his head at her. “Honey, why don’t you come over here and relax. You’re gonna wear yourself out. Hell, you’ve worn me out just watching you!”<br /><br />Still focused on her lists she answered absently. “What are you talking about?”<br /><br />“You. You’ve been running around like a mad woman for the last two weeks! You work all day, come home, and disappear into the kitchen for hours. On weekends you bring the kids over and decorate the whole house.” The memory of that brought a smile to both their faces. That had been a special weekend full of laughs and memorable family moments.<br /><br />“On top of your own shopping you helped the kids and me with ours and wrapped everything.” He continued. “You’ve made all the preparations for a full on family Christmas with all the trimmings even though I have a full staff that could have done it for you,..”<br /><br />“That wouldn’t be the same. Besides, they have their own Christmas’ to prepare for. They don’t need me adding to their work load.” She interrupted.<br /><br />“Then you decide that we need to make sure that all the kids in the Habitat for Humanity homes I’ve been involved with have presents for Christmas…” He continued as though she hadn’t spoken.<br /><br />“I didn’t do much, just some shopping.” She shrugged. “Every kid deserves a nice Christmas. I just wanted to help make that happen in some small way. Besides, you’re paying for it.”<br /><br />“You have a very soft, caring heart, and I love you for it.” He said softly.<br /><br />She grinned. “Remember that when you get the bill.”<br /><br />He laughed, then sobered. “My point is, you’ve been doing all this, plus making sure the guys had everything they needed while we were rehearsing, lining up everything for New Year’s Eve and now you’re, what, making lists of everything you need to do at your parents for tomorrow!”<br /><br />“So? Recognizing a kindred spirit? You’re not the only anal retentive one when it comes to wanting anything you’re involved in to go well you know.”<br /><br />He chuckled. “I know, it’s just that it seems like you’re always on the run.”<br /><br />She looked at him for a moment, confused at his mood, then smiled. “Are you feeling neglected?”<br /><br />He frowned. “I finally get you to spend more than three days in my house and I see you less than I do when you’re not staying there!” He grouched.<br /><br />Setting down her papers, she rose, walked over to him and sat in his lap. Feeling his arms steal around her she wrapped hers around his neck and kissed him softly. “I’m sorry.”<br /><br />He grunted. “So, are you going to make it up to me?”<br /><br />Just then the flight attendant entered the cabin to see if they needed anything. Stifling a squeal Lindsay tried to slide of his lap, but he held her in place.<br /><br />When the attendant left – unable to hide her smile – Lindsay hid her flaming face in his neck.<br /><br />Chuckling, he squeezed her and gently tipped her head back. Kissing her lightly he whispered. “Wanna join the mile high club?”<br /><br />“Not unless you can lock that door.” She answered primly.<br /><br />“But I thought that you wanted to make it up to me for neglecting me these last two weeks.” He pouted.<br /><br />“Oh I will, but you’re going to have to wait until we can guarantee there will be no interruptions.”<br /><br />He sighed. “I guess I’ll just have to settle for holding you….for now.”<br /><br />For the rest of the flight they talked quietly, exchanging soft kisses.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2233992774788831133.post-74218043502228665612008-11-04T21:12:00.000-08:002008-11-04T21:28:50.341-08:00Chapter 37Jon surveyed the breakfast table the next morning. “Honey, will you pass me the syrup please.”<br /><br />“Sure” Lindsay passed it down.<br /><br />Jesse turned to his dad with a confused look on his face. “Dad?”<br /><br />“Yes?”<br /><br />“How come you don’t call Lindsay ‘babe’? You always call women babe, but I’ve never heard you call Lindsay that. You call her honey, sweetheart, darling, but never babe. Why not?”<br /><br />Lindsay choked, Jon grinned and muffled snickers could be heard around the table.<br /><br />“Because she doesn’t like it.” Jon answered.<br /><br />“Why not?” Jesse asked.<br /><br />“Ask her.” Jon was trying not to laugh.<br /><br />Jesse turned and looked at Lindsay waiting for an answer. So did the rest of them.<br /><br />Blushing, she decided to answer him honestly. “For exactly the reason you pointed out. He calls a lot of women babe. There’s nothing unique about it. Endearments should make the other person feel special and separate from all the others. Make sense?”<br /><br />Jesse nodded and went back to eating.<br /><br />Glancing around the table she caught a couple surprised, but thoughtful looks and Jon winked and toasted her with his juice.<br /><br />The rest of the morning was taken up with getting the guys packed up and on their way home. They would all be back as soon as the rehearsal schedule was set for the upcoming tour.<br /><br />Richie was the last to leave. Standing beside the limo that would take him to the airport and clutching the bag of cookies Lindsay was sending with him he shook hands with Jon. “Hang on to this one. She’s a keeper.” He murmured. Then he turned to her. Hugging her he kissed her cheek. “Take care of him.” He whispered. She nodded.<br /><br />Walking back into the house Jon put his arm around her shoulders. “What do you want to do today?”<br /><br />“After lunch, I’m going to find a comfortable quiet spot to finally make a dent in this new book I’ve been trying to read.” She stated. He looked surprised. “Jesse needs some man time with his dad.” She explained. “What do you feel like for supper?”<br /><br />“Oats.” He grinned. She swatted his chest and headed for the kitchen to make lunch.<br /><br /><br /><br />Much later she was curled up in a large comfy chair in a large room that looked out at the back of the house. She wasn’t really sure what the room was supposed to be, it was what she imagined a “morning room” looked like what the historical romance books that she read talked about. Whatever, there was good light and the furniture was surprisingly comfortable.<br /><br />She was so engrossed in the novel that she didn’t hear him enter the room. She nearly jumped out of her skin when she felt his breath and heard his voice in her ear.<br /><br />“There you are….ooops sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you.” He sounded amused. “I’m going to take Jesse back now.”<br /><br />“Dad, I can’t find her anywhere…..oh good you did.” Jesse smiled as he joined them.<br /><br />Rising she walked with them out to the car. Once there Jesse turned, hesitated, then hugged her. “Thanks for everything.”<br /><br />“Anytime Pal.” Once again she was fighting back tears. Looking up she caught Jon watching the two of them. The warmth and happiness she saw there almost caused her to lose the battle.<br /><br /><br />When Jon returned he tracked her down in the kitchen and wrapped her in his arms, burying his face in her neck. “Thank you. We both needed that.”<br /><br />As he straightened she smiled up at him and kissed him lightly. “You’re welcome. Are you hungry?”<br /><br />He nodded, missing the glint in her eyes as he moved to sit at his place at the table. When she set the bowl in front of him he just stared at it for a minute. Then he started to laugh. “What is this?”<br /><br />“Oatmeal.” She answered<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 38<br /></span><br />After two weeks of calm, she finally managed to talk Jon into reassigning her shadow. “You know it’s really a waste of Kevin’s time and your money. He would be better used with you. You’re the one running all over the place these days.” She wasn’t complaining, really she wasn’t but she missed him. He was deep into tour preparation, and meetings dealing with the Soul and his myriad charity causes, trying to deal with everything before the tour started.<br /><br />He sighed. “I know. I’m sorry honey, it’s just that if I don’t deal with this now it won’t get done before I leave on tour. Besides, with Thanksgiving coming up, if I get it done I can take a few days to be with my family.”<br /><br />“I know, and I understand, I do, it’s just that…..I miss you, that’s all. But don’t worry about me. I’ll be fine.” She’d have to be, this was just the beginning. She had better get used to it. In the meantime, she’d just have to suck it up and deal.<br /><br />“I miss you too sweetheart. I’ll be home Friday night for sure.” He promised. “Will you be there waiting for me?” His voice had dropped an octave and slid over her nerve endings like warm honey.<br /><br />“Always.” She promised, her voice almost a whisper.<br /><br />“I wish.” He muttered.<br /><br />“Jon,” She warned.<br /><br />“I know, I know.” He paused. “Will you be wearing that negligee that matches our eyes?” He asked hopefully.<br /><br />She laughed low. “We’ll have to see how generous I’m feeling.”<br /><br />Seeing the button on her phone flashing, she reluctantly ended the conversation. “I’ve got to go honey, I’ve got another call. Will you call me later?” She asked wistfully.<br /><br />He laughed softly. “Absolutely. I’ll talk to you later. Take care honey. I love you.”<br /><br />“I love you too Jon.”<br /><br /> Hanging up she sighed and pushed the flashing button.<br /><br />“Hello?”<br /><br />“Hi Lindsay, it’s Carol.”<br /> <br />“Hi Carol, how are you?”<br /><br />“I’m fine thanks. Have you talked to Jon lately?” She asked.<br /><br />“Yes, actually I was on the phone with him when you called.” Lindsay answered.<br /><br />“Is he going to be home for Thanksgiving do you know?”<br /><br />“That’s the plan. He’s hoping he can get all these meetings in and get things sorted out so that he can stay home for a few days.” Lindsay replied.<br /><br />“Good. Tony’s coming home too, so we’ll have everyone together. Dorothea has even consented for us to have the kids for dinner, so they can spend some time with their dad before the tour starts.” Carol informed her.<br /><br />“That’s great. Jon will be really happy to hear that.”<br /><br />“By the way, you’re in charge of dessert.” Carol said.<br /><br />“Ok, how many people are we looking at and are there any traditions, or preferences that I should be aware of?” Lindsay responded without hesitation.<br /><br />Carol smiled. “Well, Joe and Joyce and their clan are coming so I think we’re looking at about 20 people. No traditions really, just pumpkin pie, something for the kids, you know that sort of thing.”<br /><br />“Ok, I’ll take care of it. Anything else I can do?” Lindsay asked.<br /><br />“No, I think we’ll have everything we need.” Carol said with satisfaction.<br /><br /><br />The week leading up to Thanksgiving Lindsay broke her own rule. She stayed at the estate the entire week. She justified it to herself by reminding herself that with all the baking she needed to do the facilities were better at Jon’s than at her apartment. The kitchen was huge and so was the fridge. As long as she left the kitchen clean and tidy, Mrs. Henderson didn’t mind her invading her domain. Jon noticed, but wisely said nothing and just enjoyed.<br /><br />Packing everything up to take to Jon’s parents, she started to worry that she didn’t have enough.<br /><br />Jon walked in to help her carry the food to the car. “Good God! You’ve got enough food here to feed an army!”<br /><br />“Well, there’s going to be a small army to feed.”<br /><br />“What is all of this?”<br /><br />“Pumpkin pies, some tarts and cupcakes for the little ones, some cookies for afternoon snacks, and the canolies, that’s all.” She defended herself.<br /><br />“Mmmm.” He licked his lips. He knew all about the canolies. Lindsay had never made the Italian pastries before, and was afraid that they wouldn’t turn out, so she made Jon her guinea pig. He was sure he’d put on ten pounds before she was satisfied with the result.<br /><br />Loading the car, they picked up the kids and soon arrived at the senior Bongiovi’s.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 39<br /></span><br />Trooping into the house they quickly realized that they were the last to arrive. Carol met them at the door and introduced Lindsay to Jon’s Uncle Joe and his wife, Joyce. While Jon was deep in conversation with his uncle, Matt approached with another man.<br /><br />“Lindsay, this is our brother Tony. Tony, this is Jon’s girlfriend Lindsay. I told you he was robbing the cradle this time.”<br /><br />She raised her eyebrows in surprise. “I’m still older than you..<em>infant</em>.” Turning to Tony she put out her hand. “Nice to meet you Tony.” This brother looked a little bit more like Jon – the shape of his face, the cut of his jaw – but was darker.<br /><br />Before Tony could answer, Matt piped up. “You are? What about Tony?” He asked almost eagerly.<br /><br />She shook her head. “Sorry. He’s older than me. You’re still the only baby.”<br /><br />Tony chuckled, took her hand, then pulled her close for a hug. “I am so happy to meet the woman that put the light back in my big brother’s eyes.”<br /><br />“Hey! Get your hands off my woman bro.” Jon mock growled. “I’m not sharing this one.” <br /><br />A little shocked by his comment, when Tony released her she looked back and forth between them. “You used to…” She put her hands up in a defensive gesture. “Nevermind I really don’t want to know.” The brothers all laughed.<br /><br />Half an hour later, Lindsay was walking by the couch where the brothers were sitting watching a football game with the rest of the men. Even Jesse was sitting on the floor by his dad.<br /><br />Jon reached out and grabbed her hand as she walked by. “Babe, would you grab us some beers please?” He asked almost absently.<br /><br />Lindsay stared at him, then realized he didn’t even know what he’d said. Jesse had heard him though and turned, eyes wide to see Lindsay’s reaction. She smiled. “Sure thing…..Buttercup.”<br /><br />Jon’s head snapped in her direction as he stared at her in disbelief. The room had erupted in laughter. She raised a brow at him. Suddenly it hit him. He raised his hands in surrender. “Sorry, sorry, I won’t do it again.” He grinned sheepishly.<br /><br />Walking into the kitchen she headed for the fridge. Jesse came running in still laughing. “Grandma, Lindsay just called Dad Buttercup! You should have seen the look on his face.”<br /><br />Carol turned to look at Lindsay.<br /><br />Lindsay shrugged as she popped the lids of the beers. “He called me babe.”<br /><br />Carol looked at her for a moment, then laughed. “Good for you!”<br /><br /><br />Dinner conversation turned to Jon’s upcoming tour.<br /><br />“When does it start?” Uncle Joe asked.<br /><br />“January.” Jon answered. “If I can decide on arrangements for Prayer, and which extra songs to have the guys prepared for.” He shook his head ruefully. “We’re getting so many hits that the fans want to hear, in order to get in the new songs the shows are getting longer and longer. It’s wearing me out.”<br /><br />Lindsay looked at him. “Do you want my opinion?”<br /><br />He nodded.<br /><br />“My favorite version of <em>Prayer</em> starts with just you a capella, with your foot hitting the floor to the beat. Or you and Richie could start it acoustic, then plug in part way through. As for other songs, for a change you could throw in more from <em>These Days</em> and some of the lesser known songs from the early albums. Like during the HAND tour when you did <em>Blood on Blood</em>, <em>Living in Sin</em>, and <em>Wild is the Wind</em>. Not too many because the younger fans don’t know them, but they are a real treat for the older fans. I’ll give you a list of my favorites, and maybe, if you want to really make me happy, you’ll play one of them for me when I’m at the show.” He grinned at her. “As for you getting worn out, if you need a break, let Richie sing more. I know a lot of fans that would love that.”<br /><br />Carol turned to her, surprised. “You’re a fan!” Lindsay nodded. “So you’re ok with all of this?” She murmured.<br /><br />Lindsay shrugged. “I’ll miss him like crazy, but it’s a big part of who he is. I would never ask him to give up what makes him, him and what he loves so much. I’ll just have to get to as many shows as I can, and try to make our time together quality time.”<br /><br />“I was thinking of letting Richie sing <em>Wanted</em> more.” Jon admitted.<br /><br />Lindsay hesitated. “As long as you stay on the stage. That one is a definite DD song.”<br /><br />“DD?” Joyce asked.<br /><br />“Dynamic Duo.” Lindsay answered and blushed a little.<br /><br />“I thought that was Batman and Robin.” Joe stated looking a little confused.<br /><br />“Not in Joviland.” Lindsay grinned.<br /><br /><br />After dinner Jon was sitting back watching Lindsay being absorbed into his family, when his mother sat down beside him. They both watched as Stephanie approached Lindsay where she was in conversation with Joyce. Stephanie was trying to French braid her own hair and had got partway done and got stuck. Without breaking the conversation, Lindsay finished it for her. Stephanie felt her hair with her hand, smiled broadly at Lindsay, gave her a hug and took off to find her cousins. Next, Jesse came up looking for batteries for his hand held game. Reaching for her purse on the table next to her, she pulled some out and handed them to him. Grinning, he thanked her and headed for a chair. Jake came up with tears running down his face and a toy in two parts in his hands. Bending down on one knee she put it back together and wiped the tears from his face. Smiling again he kissed her cheek and ran off waving the toy in the air. Standing again she resumed her conversation with Joyce. Feeling a tug on her pantleg, without looking she reached down and picked Romeo up and cuddled him.<br /><br />“She’s good with the kids.” Carol observed.<br /><br />Jon nodded. “They really seem to like her.”<br /><br />“That’s important.” Carol noted. “And she understands and accepts you and your crazy lifestyle.”<br /><br />Jon nodded again.<br /><br />“And she makes you happy?” she asked.<br /><br /> “Very.” he looked at his mother. “What are you getting at Mom?”<br /><br />She smiled at him. “I just want my boys to be happy. I thought we had you settled, but I could see how miserable you were the last few years. Don’t get me wrong, I love Dorothea, but she never really understood what your music, and all it entails means to you. I think Lindsay does. Not only that, but she loves it too. She’s a little sad that you’re going to be away even more with the tour, but she accepts it as part of who you are, and wouldn’t have it any other way. That’s love. I think you should hold on to this one. Fame and fortune are all fine, but it’s not worth a damn if you don’t have someone to love and who loves you to come home to and share it with. I like Lindsay. I have a feeling she’ll go the distance. I guess what I’m trying to say, son, is I think you’ve got a winner here. Good job.”<br /><br />“Thanks Mom. I think so too.” He grinned.<br /><br />“Jon” Lindsay appeared in front of him, a sleeping Romeo in her arms. “I think we should head home. Jake’s out cold too in the living room.”<br /><br />He nodded and stood up. “I’ll get him.”<br /><br />Lindsay turned to Carol. “Thanks for everything.”<br /><br />“No,” Carol said. “Thank <strong>you</strong>.”<br /><br />Saying their goodbye’s, they gathered up the kids and headed home.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2233992774788831133.post-23346306864532535072008-11-04T20:22:00.000-08:002008-11-04T21:12:44.978-08:00Chapter 34By the end of the week things had calmed down and Lindsay prepared to move back home. Friday morning Jon left early for Soul meetings in Philly. Taking the chicken’s way out, she took advantage of his absence to avoid an argument when she packed.<br /><br />After work she told Kevin she was going to her apartment. He followed her and escorted her into the building, reminding her to call him if she was going out over the weekend.<br /><br />She spent the next couple hours cleaning and straightening up her apartment. When her cell phone rang she jumped. Checking the number she sighed and prepared to deal with an annoyed rock star.<br /><br />“Hey, how’d your meetings go?” She tried to delay the inevitable.<br /><br />“Fine, where are you?”<br /><br />So much for delaying tactics. “I’m at home.”<br /><br />“No you’re not. I’m home and you’re not here.” He was definitely annoyed.<br /><br />“No, you’re at your home, I’m at mine.” She braced for his response.<br /><br />Silence. “I thought we were moving forward here.”<br /><br />“We are. Moving forward doesn’t mean moving in. At least not yet.”<br /><br />“Don’t you like my home?”<br /><br />“It’s beautiful. It’s like something straight from a magazine. I’m just not comfortable being there when you’re not. Besides, it’s only been a few months. Don’t you think that would be rushing things a little?” She tried to explain.<br /><br />“You can redecorate the whole house if you want, if it will make you more comfortable.”<br /><br />“Maybe eventually, but I’m not ready for that yet. Look, I’m perfectly willing to stay with you on weekends – when you’re home, but not full time. Not yet.”<br /><br />He sighed. “I guess I’ll have to take what I can get. So…it’s the weekend, I’m home, why aren’t you here?”<br /><br />She smiled. “Because you weren’t sure if you were going to make it back tonight, and you have that pre-release gig with the fanclub at Elements tomorrow night.”<br /><br />“Well, I’m back and I’ll be here tomorrow night too. So…are you coming back?” He coaxed. He sounded just like a child hoping for a treat.<br /><br />She laughed and gave in. “Ok, I’m on my way.”<br /><br /><br />The next day she was called upon to act as fashion consultant. When she entered the wardrobe room they were lined up like soldiers for inspection. Doing her best drill sergeant impression she started down the line.<br /><br />Hugh was first. Black pants and silver long sleeved shirt. She nodded in approval.<br /><br />Tico was next. Taking in his long sleeve button up shirt she frowned slightly. “Do you have something sleeveless under that?” He grinned, nodded and flashed her. She grinned back. “Good man.”<br /><br />Then there was David. She looked at him and shook her head sadly. “David, you’re a hell of a keyboard player, smart, funny, very attractive with your yellow curls, and the best of friends.” She hesitated trying to think of a way to soften the blow. She couldn’t. “But you have no fashion sense at all.” The others laughed.<br /><br />David looked hurt. “What’s wrong with what I’m wearing?”<br /><br />“The pants are fine. But that shirt……I saw you wear that during the Bounce tour, and I’m sorry babe, but it was ugly then, and it’s ugly now. Where’s the one we picked out for the Borgata show?” She asked.<br /><br />“But I wore that not too long ago.” He protested.<br /><br />“Hmm,mmm and the girls behind me kept talking about how good you looked.” She almost laughed at the pleased look on his face.<br /><br />“I’ll go get it.” And he took off out of the room.<br /><br />Lindsay turned to Richie. Giving him the once over she reached out to lift the edges of his trademark long jacket to get a better look at the t-shirt underneath. “Do you have anything tighter?”<br /><br />He chuckled and nodded. Jon frowned. She turned to him. He was wearing the same sweats and shirt he’d been wearing all day.<br /><br />“And what about you, Mr. Frontman? What are you wearing?” She raised a brow at him.<br /><br />He smiled. “Oh, no. I know you better than that by now honey.” He waved around the room. “You pick.”<br /><br />Grinning she set to work. As she sorted through the racks Tico finally asked the question they had all been curious about.<br /><br />“Hey Linds, how come you’re not coming with us? I mean, your relationship is out in the open now, so why are you staying away?”<br /><br />“For the same reason that Jon didn’t wear his wedding ring on stage.” She answered absently.<br /><br />“Sweaty hands?” Hugh looked skeptically at her hands.<br /><br />Lindsay looked at him. “Riiiight.”<br /><br />“What you don’t believe that?” Tico asked, curious. They were all watching her closely.<br /><br />“Not for a minute. Richie never seems to have that problem, and Jon used to wear rings back in the old days.” She faced Jon. “Look , no matter how much you protest that you don’t like it, pretty boy, your female fans and their lust fests are a big chunk of your bread and butter. No sense hitting them over the head with your unavailability. Let them have their little fantasies, especially during a show where you feed off of each other’s energy.”<br /><br />They looked at her stunned. “What? Did you really think you were fooling anyone? Hey, I’m not criticizing, I think it’s a smart move.”<br /><br />Richie shook his head in disbelief. “But, what does that have to do with you coming with us today? The pictures just came out. No one will recognize you yet.”<br /><br />She laughed. “Don’t kid yourself. The fans had those pictures within 24 hours, 48 max. By now, they’ve been posted on every fan website on the net. If I showed up with you today, believe me, I would not be very popular. ”<br /><br />Jon started to ask a question, then the answer came to him and he grinned. “Been there, seen that?” She nodded and smiled a little sheepishly. “I keep forgetting you were a fan first.” He gave her a hug. She handed him the outfit she’d picked out.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 35<br /></span><br />About an hour and a half after they left, the phone rang.<br /><br />“Hello?”<br /><br />“Hi, Lindsay, it’s Matt.”<br /><br />“Hi, Matt. How’s everything going?”<br /><br />“The meet and greet is going well.” He paused. “Can you come over here?”<br /><br />She frowned. “What’s wrong?”<br /><br />He sighed. “Jesse showed up here. If I tell Jon he’s going flip, and everyone’s going to know something’s up and if they see Jess then everything Jon’s done to keep the kids out of the spotlight will go right down the tubes.”<br /><br />“I’m not sure I’m the best one to come get him. How did he get there anyway?” She asked, concerned.<br /><br />“I’m not real sure. I think Sam dropped him off. I tried to call Dorothea, but I can’t reach her. My parents can’t get him either. These people know Mom on sight. I can’t keep him with me, they’ll figure out who he is, and I can’t get away to take him home.”<br /><br />“But if I show up there and they see me with him, they’ll figure it out too. Besides, he’s not one of my biggest supporters, he might not even come with me.” Her mind was racing for a solution. She wanted to help. She didn’t want Jesse to get hurt, but she didn’t want to make things worse either.<br /><br />“Please Lindsay, I don’t know who else to call. Hopefully we can get you in and out before they realize who you are.” Matt pleaded.<br /><br />“Ok, I’m on my way.”<br /><br /><br />Arriving at Elements she parked in front of the employee entrance in anticipation of a quick getaway. Entering by the front door, she was stopped by the hostess on duty.<br /><br />“I’m sorry, this is a private party.”<br /><br />Lindsay smiled. “Yes, I know. I’m Lindsay Chandler.”<br /><br />The hostess’ eyes widened for a minute. “Yes of course, I’m sorry I didn’t recognize you. Go on in.”<br /><br />“Thanks. Do you know where Matt is?” Lindsay asked.<br /><br />“Umm, last time I saw him he was heading for the kitchen.” The hostess responded and pointed the direction he had headed.<br /><br />“Thanks.”<br /><br />Skirting the edge of the large crowd she pinpointed the positions of the guys. Jon was on the other side of the room signing autographs. The rest were spread out around the room likewise engaged. None of them noticed her. Keeping her head down, she headed for the kitchen – and almost ran into Matt as he was coming out.<br /><br />“Oops, sorry.” He grabbed her arms in reflex to catch her. Glancing down he saw who it was and whisked her into the kitchen. “Thank God!.” He lead her over to a corner where Jesse was sitting on a stool looking mutinous. “See if you can talk to him.” Matt said, clearly exasperated with his nephew. “He’s as stubborn as his father. I’ve got to get back to work.”<br /><br />Taking a deep breath Lindsay turned to Jesse. “Hi Jesse, what’s up?”<br /><br />He just shrugged.<br /><br />“You’re a long way from home. How’d you get here?” She tried again.<br /><br />“Sam.”<br /><br />“Does your dad know you’re here?”<br /><br />He shook his head.<br /><br />She grabbed another stool and sat, trying desperately to find someway to reach the boy.<br /><br />“Jesse, is there some reason you wanted to be here today?”<br /><br />Another shrug.<br /><br />Lindsay sighed. “C’mon pal, help me out here. Your dad’s going to be angry when he finds out you’re here. Help me figure out a way to calm him down.”<br /><br />“I just wanted to see what it’s like.” He said in a small voice.<br /><br />“What what’s like?”<br /><br />“His other life.” Came the answer.<br /><br /><em>Oh God</em>. Lindsay suddenly had to blink back tears. Swallowing hard she looked at the young boy who was risking a lot of people being angry just to spend some time with his dad.<br /><br />“Tell you what. Why don’t we see if Uncle Matt can find us a corner where we can watch for a few minutes, then I’ll take you back to your dad’s and you can be there when he gets home and spend the night? Would you like that?” She asked.<br /><br />Her heart almost broke at the way his face lit up. He nodded.<br /><br />“Ok, let me go find Uncle Matt and see what we can arrange.”<br /><br />Stepping out of the kitchen she surveyed the room until she found Matt. Catching his eye she motioned him over and told him what the plan was. He thought for a minute then nodded.<br /><br />“I know a place that might work.”<br /><br />Collecting Jesse, he showed them to a couple of chairs in a far corner. You could see the whole room from there, but no one was looking towards them.<br /><br />After half an hour of watching Jon laugh and flirt with the fans, Lindsay motioned a waitress over and asked her to take Jesse to the door. “I’ll be there in a minute” She promised.<br /><br />Having watched Jon lavish attention on the fans, knowing what the boy next to her would have given for just a portion of that attention, Lindsay felt an unreasonable anger. She knew it was an emotional response, not a logical one. She knew that it wasn’t really Jon’s fault, it was just the circumstances, that he was doing the best he could, but none of it changed the way she was feeling. It was these feelings that motivated what she did next.<br /><br />Moving around the room until she was behind Jon, she fought her way through the crowd until there was no one left between them. She didn’t notice that Richie had seen her or that a few of the fans had recognized her as well.<br /><br />Jon was facing away from her signing an autograph and talking to a big chested blonde – which didn’t exactly help her emotional state either! Stepping forward, a bit of an evil smile on her face, she ran one hand around his torso. The other hand slipped down to grab his assets while she raised up on tiptoe to bite his earlobe and blow softly into his ear – something that always drove him wild.<br /><br />He stiffened at her first touch, but very quickly relaxed. “Hi honey, I thought you weren’t coming.” He said without turning around.<br /><br />Stunned speechless she stepped back and just stared at him as he turned to face her. Shaking her head she finally found her voice. “No way, you didn’t know it was me!”<br /><br />Grinning he nodded. “Yes I did.” He leaned down to whisper in her ear. “Sweetheart, I’d know your touch anywhere, and recognize your scent in the dark.”<br /><br />“But my perfume’s pretty common.” She argued.<br /><br />“I’m not talking about your perfume.”<br /><br />She swatted him on the arm and he laughed. “Hey turnabout’s fair play.” When she looked at him questioningly he explained. “You made me blush, it’s only fair I make you blush.”<br /><br />“I made you blush?” She raised a brow at him. With a rueful smile he quickly glanced down and back up. Following his gaze she realized what he meant. Good thing he was wearing denim and not chinos or he’d really be on display. She grinned.<br /><br />“So what changed your mind?” His question brought her mind back to why she was there.<br /><br />“Oh I heard that there was a good looking young man here who needed a ride. So I came to pick him up.” Turning she looked at the girls around them. “Make sure he gives you your money’s worth girls.” She winked at them and they laughed as she started to walk away.<br /><br />“Lindsay, wait!” He grabbed her arm to stop her.<br /><br />Turning back she glanced around then raised a brow at him. He tried to hide his frustration that they couldn’t speak freely. “What did you mean by that?”<br /><br />“Exactly what I said.” At the look on his face she relented - a little. “Don’t worry, I’m taking him to your place. You can talk to him later.” She walked away.<br /><br />Looking toward Richie she saw him laughing and giving her the thumbs up. Smiling she made her way over to him and told him what she’d done. “If he’s really upset and it starts affecting the evening, you can tell him.”<br /><br />“Hell, no! It’ll do him good to stew for a while.” Richie chuckled.<br /><br />Heading for the door she gathered up Jesse and left for home.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 36</span><br /><br />When they got back to the estate they sat down in the den.<br /><br />“Are you hungry?” She asked.<br /><br />“No, Uncle Matt made sure I got some food.” He looked at her. “Thanks though.”<br /><br />“Do you think we should call your mom and let her know where you are?”<br /><br />He sighed. “I guess so. She’s going to be mad though. I told Sam that Dad had invited me.” He reached for the phone.<br /><br />Personally Lindsay thought that Sam should have checked with Dorothea who would have known that Jon wouldn’t have wanted his son in such close proximity to fans with cameras, but she didn’t say anything.<br /><br />“Mom wants to talk to you.”<br /><br />Taking the phone she let out a nervous breath. “Hi Dorothea.”<br /><br />“Hi. Thanks for going to get him. I don’t know what Sam was thinking taking him there! I was out getting groceries or I would have stopped it. Did anything happen?”<br /><br />“No, Matt kept him in the kitchen until I got there, and we were able to get him out of there without anyone seeing him.” She paused. “I get the feeling he misses his dad.”<br /><br />Dorothea sighed. “He does. He’s having a harder time of it than the rest. I think it’s his age.”<br /><br />“If it’s ok with you, I’ve offered for him to spend the night here tonight. Jon and the guys will be back early and then they can spend some time together.” Lindsay suggested.<br /><br />“I think that’s a great idea. Are you sure you don’t mind?” She sounded relieved.<br /><br />“Not at all. I know the guys would enjoy it too. Jon can bring him home tomorrow.”<br /><br />“Sounds good.” She hesitated. “Thanks Lindsay.”<br /><br />Hanging up she turned to Jesse.<br /><br />“So what do you want to do? It’ll be a couple hours before your dad gets back. Do you want to watch a movie, or play a game or something?”<br /><br />“I brought a video game that we can both play if you want to.” He looked doubtful.<br /><br />“You’re on. You’ll have to show me how first though.” <em>Yes!! Breakthrough!<br /></em><br />The guys returned to find them sitting on the floor, in the middle of an intense battle.<br /><br />“I’m gonna blow you away!” Jesse yelled.<br /><br />“Hah, you wish!” There were some noisy sound effects. “Eat that you slimy space alien!” Lindsay laughed.<br /><br />“Who’s winning?” David asked.<br /><br />“I am.” They responded in unison. They all laughed.<br /><br />Jumping up, Jesse went to greet his “uncles”. Reaching his dad he looked at him a little fearfully.<br /><br />Jon looked down at him for a moment. “Son, you know why I don’t like you at events like that right?” Jesse nodded. “Next time, call me. We’ll arrange some time together – just the two of us. Ok?” Jesse’s face lit up and he nodded and hugged his dad.<br /><br />Jon turned and pointed a finger at Lindsay and glowered. “<strong>You</strong>, are evil.”<br /><br />“What did I do?” She asked innocently.<br /><br />“Don’t play Miss Innocent with me. You know <strong>exactly</strong> what you did.” He almost growled.<br /><br />She grinned and looked at Richie. “You told him?”<br /><br />“No, I wouldn’t, so he tracked Matt down to find out what was going on.” He grinned.<br /><br />“Don’t tell me you were jealous.” Lindsay looked at Jon in disbelief.<br /><br />Definitely a growl this time.<br /><br />“Jon, are you blushing?” Tico asked trying not to laugh.<br /><br />Still grinning Lindsay got up and walked over to him. Wrapping her arms around his waist she hugged him and kissed him lightly. “Thank you.”<br /><br />“For what? Acting like a schoolboy with his first crush?” He grouched.<br /><br />“For caring enough to be jealous.” She kissed him again.<br /><br />“C’mon Lindsay we’ve got to finish the game.” Jesse pleaded.<br /><br />“I’m playing the winner.” Richie declared.<br /><br />And so the evening went.<br /><br />When Jesse was making the rounds saying goodnight before going to bed he looked hesitantly at Lindsay. “Do you know how to make French toast?”<br /><br />“Yes.” She replied.<br /><br />“Could we have some for breakfast tomorrow?” The hopeful look on his face was the same one that Jon used when he was trying to wheedle something out of her.<br /><br />Surprised, she smiled. “Sure, pal. Is there anything else you’d like?”<br /><br />“Chocolate chip cookies!” Came the response from five different directions.<br /><br />She laughed. “There’s a fresh batch in the kitchen. I made them earlier today.”<br /><br />“Good God woman! Why didn’t you say something earlier?” Richie jumped up and ran for the kitchen.<br /><br /><br />Later, as they headed upstairs to bed, Lindsay hesitated at the door to the master bedroom.<br /><br />“Oh, no you don’t.” Jon slid his arm around her waist and propelled her into the room. Cutting off her protest he assured her. “Jesse is expecting you to spend the night. And I can guarantee he knows where you’ll be sleeping. He may be young, but he’s a lot like I was at that age. He knows all about what goes on between boys and girls.” He leered at her.<br /><br />Shaking her head, she gave in and moved to turn down the bed.<br /><br />“So what exactly was the story with him today anyway? Matt said he couldn’t get him to talk, but I’m betting you did.” Jon asked as he undid his shirt.<br /><br />“What makes you think that?” She asked, curious.<br /><br />“I told you he’s a lot like me. You can always make me talk even when I don’t really want to.” He answered dryly.<br /><br />She smiled. “He said he wanted to see what your other life was like. He told Sam that you had invited him, and Dorothea wasn’t home to stop it. Matt couldn’t get a hold of her either, so he called me.” She paused. “I think he just really misses you. He’s at that age where he really needs his father.” At the look on his face she continued. “Honey, I know you’re doing the best you can, but is there anyway you could squeeze in some more time with him in the next little while? Try to help him adjust?”<br /><br />He walked over and hugged her. “I’ll take a look at my schedule and see what I can do.” Tipping her face up, he kissed her gently. “How did I get so lucky to find you? Not only do you give me just what I need, here you are trying to do the same for my son. You did a great job with him today by the way.”<br /><br />Hugging him back she smiled broadly. “I think I made a real breakthrough today. When he asked me to make him French toast for breakfast I wanted to shout in triumph.”<br /><br />He nodded. “That was definitely his stamp of approval and acceptance. You can’t escape, you’re part of the family now.”<br /><br />Throwing her arms around his neck she rubbed up against him. “Why would I want to escape when I’m right where I want to be?”<br /><br />Groaning at the feel of her body rubbing his he swooped down and captured her mouth. When she opened for him he accepted her invitation and thrust his tongue deeply into her mouth, tasting her.<br /><br />Fisting her hands in his hair she moaned and sucked hard on his tongue while pressing even closer to him.<br /><br />Wanting to feel her skin against his, his hands rose from her waist to undo the buttons on her blouse. Spreading the sides back he flicked open the front closure of her bra, peeling it back so he could cup her breasts in his hands and knead gently.<br /><br />Moaning softly, she lowered her arms to remove the offending garments completely. Returning her hands to his shoulders she glided them down his back, massaging the firm muscles as she went. Breaking the kiss she slid her mouth down his neck to his chest. Moving slowly she licked, nibbled and sucked her way to his hard nipples. Here she stopped to feast.<br /><br />Caught between the feel of her hands on his back and her mouth on his chest he was helpless to do anything but moan. In reflex he captured her nipples between his fingers and squeezed.<br /><br />Reaching his waist she slid one hand around, tracing his ribs and moving down to stroke him through his jeans. He shuddered. Chuckling, she flicked open the button and slid the zipper down. Reaching inside she gripped him firmly.<br /><br />“Jesus, Lindsay, you’re killing me.” He gasped.<br /><br />Dropping to her knees, she dragged his jeans down and he kicked them away. Before he could stop her, she leaned forward and ran her tongue down his hard shaft. Sliding one hand up the inside of his thigh she cupped him, softly stretching his sensitive skin. The other hand she used to hold him firmly while her tongue played.<br /><br />Unable to help himself he slid his hands into her hair and held on for dear life.<br /><br />Taking him into her mouth she suckled hard, then backed off and scraped her teeth gently across the tip, reveling in the sounds she dragged from his core.<br /><br />“That’s it!” He growled. Pulling her away he grabbed her arms and raised her to her feet.<br /><br />“Didn’t you like it?” She asked breathlessly.<br /><br />“Mmmmm….too much. I need to be inside you…now!”<br /><br />Backing up until he hit the bed, he sat and drew her to stand in front of him. Quickly rendering her as naked as he was, he urged her to straddle him.<br /><br />Complying, she placed her knees on either side of his hips and lowered herself until she was sitting in his lap.<br /><br />Bracing her with one hand on her hip, with the other hand he cupped a breast raising the pouting nipple to his mouth. Running his tongue around and around the hard kernel he listened to her gasps with an internal smile.<br /><br />Grabbing his head she pulled him harder against her. “Please.”<br /><br />He obliged, sucking lightly at first, then harder. She cried out. Unable to wait any longer, he slid his hand down over her belly to stroke the soft flesh between her thighs. Probing gently to check that she was ready he absorbed the shudder that racked her body. Pulling her hips closer he lifted her and impaled her.<br /><br />He paused for a moment to let her catch her breath and to feel their flesh pulsing against each other intimately. Tipping her head up to his he kissed her lightly. “You told me that you used to ride horses.” She nodded. “Show me.”<br /><br />Smiling seductively she looped her arms around his neck and started to move. Slowly she rocked her hips against him in a figure eight pattern. “This is a walk.” Speeding up she suddenly changed to an up and down motion, pausing briefly at apex of her movement. “This is a trot.” Gradually increasing her speed, he was groaning, she was panting when she changed the motion again. Rising up only slightly, she rolled her hips against him. “This is a canter.” She gasped. Head tipped back he was breathing like a racehorse. Faster and faster she rode until finally the wave of sensation swamped them.<br /><br />He collapsed on his back. She collapsed on top of him. He ran his hands slowly up and down her spine as they both waited to regain their senses. “You must have been one hell of an equestrian.” He panted. She laughed breathlessly.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2233992774788831133.post-3253088959690883692008-11-04T19:43:00.000-08:002008-11-04T21:11:49.596-08:00Chapter 31Returning home, Lindsay turned into the parking lot of her apartment building and stopped. The front door was clogged with people. Parking and getting out she approached the door cautiously. When they saw her they turned and descended upon her en masse. Flashbulbs went off in her face as they shouted questions at her.<br /><br />“Lindsay, how did you meet Jon?”<br /><br />“How long have you two been dating?”<br /><br />“What do his kids think?”<br /><br />“Is it serious? Are you going to get married?”<br /><br /><em>Jeesh! How did they find out where I live so soon?</em> She refused to answer any questions as she fought her way towards the door. Thankfully her building had a doorman who came out to help her. Putting a protective arm around her, he used his free arm to push the reporters back to give her space.<br /><br />Once inside she blew out a relieved breath. “Thank you. I’m sorry about all of this. I don’t know how they found me.”<br /><br />“Don’t you worry about it Miss Chandler. If they don’t stop bothering people I’ll call the police.” He smiled at her.<br /><br />Upstairs she tried to relax and plan what she was going to say to Jon, but her phone kept ringing – and it was never anyone she knew! Finally, tired of dodging questions about her love life, and personal questions about Jon, she packed a bag and left. Reaching the lobby she discovered that the doorman had called in security guards to help keep the reporters back. Seeing her two of them came over to her.<br /><br />“Are you heading to your car Miss Chandler?” One beefy guard asked.<br /><br />“Yes, I am. I’m really sorry about this. Hopefully when they see me leave they’ll give up.” She apologized again.<br /><br />“We’ll escort you out.” The guard offered.<br /><br />Thanking him she gripped her suitcase harder and took a deep breath and prepared to run the gauntlet. Pulling out of the parking lot, she turned in the direction of the only place she could think of where they couldn’t get to her.<br /><br />Stopping in front of the door, Lindsay pulled her suitcase out of the trunk, turned and found him standing in the open doorway looking very serious. Approaching him she searched his face, but he wasn’t giving anything away.<br /><br />“My building’s under siege and they’ve got my phone number.” She said by way of explanation.<br /><br />He contemplated her for a moment, then turned and motioned her into the house. In the foyer she dropped her suitcase.<br /><br />“Are the guys still here?” she asked.<br /><br />He nodded curtly in response and gestured towards the den. They all looked up when she entered the room and flopped down on the couch beside David.<br /><br />“What’s wrong?” Tico asked.<br /><br />“The vultures have descended.” She replied. “Not only have they surrounded my apartment building, they’ve got my phone number!”<br /><br />“What did you say to them?” This from David.<br /><br />“Nothing.” She glanced at Jon. “I wasn’t sure what I should say.” He only gazed at her impassively.<br /><br />“Have you eaten?” Richie asked trying to break the tension.<br /><br />She shook her head. “I never got the chance. Have you guys?”<br /><br />“No, we were just about to raid Jon’s kitchen and see what Mrs. Henderson left for us.” He answered.<br /><br />She sat up. “I’ll go make us something.”<br /><br />“No, we’ll get it. You’ve had a rough day. Why don’t you take your suitcase upstairs and get settled.” He insisted, shooting a meaningful glance at Jon.<br /><br />Walking back to the foyer she picked up her suitcase and turned uncertainly to Jon who had followed her.<br /><br />“Look, if you don’t want me here I can go to a hotel, or Julie’s or someplace until the dust settles.” She fought back the tears. When he didn’t answer immediately, she turned and headed for the door.<br /><br />Cursing under his breath he grabbed the suitcase from her hand and started up the stairs. Following him into his bedroom she watched him throw her bag on the bed and step back.<br /><br />While she unpacked he leaned against the door frame and watched her. Finally, unable to stand it any more she sat on the edge of the bed and looked at him.<br /><br />“Are you going to talk to me or are you just going to stalk me?”<br /><br />He sighed. “What happened last night Lindsay?”<br /><br />It was her turn to sigh. “How can I make you understand? You’ve had women falling all over you all of your adult life. You don’t know what it’s like to be told time and again that you’re not good enough to be seen with in public.” When he would have spoken she held up her hand. “No, let me say what I need to say. When I went to the bathroom last night I overheard two women talking about us wondering what you were doing with me because I was not worthy of being with you. Then, on my way back, I heard two men saying pretty much the same thing, although they added that you were just using me to keep the hordes away while you made your selections in peace. Did Richie tell you what he heard?” He nodded. “Then you get the gist of it. I had just started to relax and was beginning to enjoy myself, so the comments hit me hard. Now, I know what you’ve told me before about how you feel, but old habits – and fears – die hard. My head says to trust you, but my heart says to be careful, so I knew I had to get away by myself and think things through. I was afraid that if I told you what was going on that you would run out of patience and walk away.” She looked down at her hands clenched in her lap and blinked back tears. “I’m sorry if I upset you, but I had to be sure. I couldn’t bear it if you turned away from me…not you…it would break me.” Her voice had trailed off to a whisper.<br /><br />He approached her quickly and knelt in front of her. Raising her chin with a knuckle he searched her face. “You survived the others, what makes me different? Because I’m famous?”<br /><br />She shook her head. “It’s because of the man you are, not what you do.”<br /><br />“But why am I different?” He persisted.<br /><br />She took a deep breath and grabbed hold of her courage with both hands. “Because I love you.”<br /><br />He smiled so tenderly it actually made her heart ache. “I love you too.” Leaning forward he kissed her gently. Sitting beside her he wrapped his arms around her. “So are you sure now?”<br /><br />She nodded. “I thought about how the people who know you best reacted to me, how you treat me and make me feel, and Richie played <em>On The Surface</em> for me.” She smiled at him. “It’s a beautiful song.”<br /><br />“I meant every word of it.” He kissed her again. “So, no more doubts?” She shook her head. “Good. Promise me something?”<br /><br />“What?”<br /><br />“The next time someone tells you crap like that, come tell me.” There was an angry glint in his eye. She nodded.<br /><br />Her stomach growled and he chuckled. “Come on, let’s go see what kind of mess they’ve created in the kitchen.”<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 32</span><br /><br />Over dinner they discussed how they should handle the reporters.<br /><br />“Tell them to get stuffed and mind their own business.” Tico advised.<br /><br />“I wish!” Lindsay laughed. “Maybe we should talk to Paul. Is there someone on your staff who could right up a press release if we need one? I’m thinking it might be easier to have that on hand to distribute instead of answering the same questions a hundred times.”<br /><br />“What kinds of things are they asking you?” Jon asked.<br /><br />“Oh, the usual…how did we meet, how long have we been dating, are we going to get married, how are the kids taking it….that sort of thing. Since they don’t know about Stephanie’s disappearing act, rather than cherry pick the questions, I just didn’t answer any of them.” She answered.<br /><br />“Tell them you met Jon when you were interviewing suspects in a murder case, you’ve been dating for 2 weeks, but have been having sex for years, you’re getting married next week and the kids hate you and Jon is disowning them.” David suggested. When they all stared at him he shrugged. “Well if they’re going to ask such stupid questions that are none of their business anyway they deserve stupid answers.”<br /><br />“Ok, let’s tell them that we met a few months ago through a mutual friend, we’ve been dating ever since and the kids are just fine.” Jon decided. “I’ll call Paul in the morning and give him the heads up on what we’re saying. They can prepare a statement if we decide we need it.”<br /><br />“Mutual friend huh?” She smiled.<br /><br />“Yeah…Stephanie.” He responded. They all laughed.<br /><br />The rest of the evening was taken up with discussions surrounding the release of the new album.<br /><br />“Do I get to hear it before it’s released?” Lindsay asked eagerly.<br /><br />“No!” They all answered at once.<br /><br />“Well, hell, doesn’t the leader’s girlfriend get any perks at all?” She pouted.<br /><br />“Yeah, you get me” Jon smiled smugly.<br /><br />“Is that it?” She grouched.<br /><br />They all laughed.<br /><br />Heading up to bed, Lindsay stopped and gave Richie a big hug and kissed his cheek.<br /><br />“What was that for?” He asked, surprised.<br /><br />“For being such a great guy and a good friend. Thank you for your help today. Although I have to say that if you can read me that well, I’m glad you’re on my side.” She answered ruefully.<br /><br />He smiled. “No thanks needed. I just want you both to be happy.”<br /><br /><br />Lindsay was in the bathroom washing her face when Jon came in.<br /><br />“So you’re going to do the pre-release thing for the fan club at Elements then?” she asked.<br /><br />“Yeah, I guess so. The fans seem to like it, and it helps Matt too.” He answered reaching around her for his toothbrush.<br /><br />“You’re going to tell me about anything you want me at ahead of time…right?” No one could mistake the warning note in her voice.<br /><br />He chuckled. “Yes I will, I promise.”<br /><br />When Jon entered the bedroom he saw Lindsay standing by the balcony door looking out at the stars. Walking up behind her he wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her back against him. Kissing her neck he asked “What are you thinking about?”<br /><br />“I was just wishing it was warmer out so we could go out on the balcony.” She gave him a remembering kind of smile. He grinned back.<br /><br />Releasing her he took her hand and towed her towards the bed. Reaching it he stopped and turned towards her. Slowly untying the wide sash of her silk robe he pulled it free and held it between his hands and considered it speculatively. Raising his gaze to hers he gave her a questioning look. “Do you trust me?” He asked huskily.<br /><br />Meeting his gaze she replied. “I trust that you would never purposely hurt me, and never physically.”<br /><br />Smiling he raised the scrap of silk and placed it across her eyes, winding it around her head a couple times and tying it. It made a comfortable blindfold.<br /><br />Anticipation made her heart rate accelerate, particularly as she could sense him moving around, but he didn’t make a sound. Suddenly she felt her robe being slipped off her shoulders. It slid down to puddle at her feet, leaving her completely naked.<br /><br />She sensed him standing to her left. One fingertip lifted her chin, then slid slowly down her neck, over her collar bone, pausing for a minute to feel her pulse. Moving on it circled her left breast before continuing down to circle her navel and then sliding to her left hip.<br /><br />Now he was directly in front of her. That fingertip started at her chin again this time tracing her right side. Being blind heightened her sense of touch making her skin super sensitive. The slight callous on his finger scraped her lightly causing her to shiver and goosebumps to form on her skin. Continuing his circuit, he now ran his finger down the narrow valley of her spine and circled the firm globes at the base.<br /><br />Her breasts heaved as she struggled for breath, trying to anticipate where that finger would touch next. Hearing the faint shush of silk she realized that he had stripped off his own robe. Her hands started to reach for him. “No.” He whispered in her ear. “Not yet.”<br /><br />The fingertip started again. From the underside of her chin, to her breasts, to her navel, to her hips. First one side, then the other. Each sweep the circle around her breast got smaller and smaller until it was down to the tight peak and she was panting. She moved her legs further apart to brace herself against the sensations that were pouring through her threatening to turn her muscles to jelly.<br /><br />“Please!” She whispered. He ignored her plea.<br /><br />The next time the fingertip circled her navel, instead of sliding off to her hip, it traveled straight down to burrow through her curls and trace her most intimate flesh. Over and over it traced gently urging her to open for him. Dropping her head back she was now gasping for breath. Then the teasing touch was gone. She stood still, her entire body vibrating with need, waiting for the next touch for the space of one heartbeat…two…three. With no warning the finger returned, not to trace, but to spear deeply inside her. She cried out. A second finger was added, then a third stretching her gently.<br /><br />While his fingers continued their erotic massage he bent slightly to touch his tongue to her hard nipples. He laved them, then bit them gently before taking first one, then the other deep into his mouth and sucking lightly.<br /><br />“Oh my God Jon!” she gasped. Unable to stand still any longer, her hands came up to grasp his head and pull him closer.<br /><br />Thrusting his fingers deep and sucking hard on her breast at the same time he sent her over the edge.<br /><br />Picking her up as her legs gave way he laid her gently on the bed, leaving the blindfold on. Laying beside her he waited until her breathing calmed before he started all over again. Caressing her more firmly now, but still gently, he started her up desire’s peak again. This time when she was gasping for breath and crying out for him he gave her what she wanted. What they both wanted. Bending her knees he made room for himself between her taut thighs. Thrusting deep he groaned and held still for a few minutes absorbing the sensations assaulting him.<br /><br />Smiling to herself despite her difficulty breathing she ran her hands down his back. Gripping his assets she pulled him even deeper inside her and squeezed him intimately as tightly as she could. It was his turn to gasp.<br /><br />“Ok, ok, you win, let go.”<br /><br />Her chuckle ended in a moan as he started to move inside her. Tossing her head she raked her nails lightly down his back. Now <strong>he</strong> was moaning. By the time the end came they were both shuddering and crying out their pleasure.<br /><br />Rolling onto his side so that he didn’t crush her, Jon removed her blindfold and gathered Lindsay close. Whispering of their love they drifted off to sleep still joined.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 33</span><br /><br />The next morning during breakfast Jon turned to Lindsay. “Maybe I should take you to work today, just in case the vultures are waiting.”<br /><br />She smiled. “That’s not necessary. The police are right next door and Brian has given our security the heads up, so there shouldn’t be a problem.”<br /><br />She heard muffled snickers coming from Tico and David. Richie tried to hide his smile. Jon just looked exasperated.<br /><br />“What?” She asked, wondering what was funny.<br /><br />Jon sighed. “Honey, I love that you are a strong, independent woman.” He paused. “But you do realize that you’re not alone anymore don’t you?”<br /><br />Realizing he wanted to be included in what she was going through she smiled sheepishly. “I’m sorry. I’m still trying to get used to that. I’ve been on my own a long time. Tell you what. How about I go on my own, and if there’s a pack, I’ll come back and you can take me. And if they swarm later, I promise I’ll call for back up. Will that work?”<br /><br />“I guess.” He nodded grudgingly. “I still don’t like the idea of you going in alone though. They can be pretty ruthless.” He frowned in concern.<br /><br />“I’ll call the office when I get close and they can send security to escort me.” She offered. He nodded, but still didn’t look real happy.<br /><br /><br /><br />When she reached the office there were a few people hanging around the parking lot, but that was it. Security was standing by the door in case she ran into trouble, but she made it inside without a hassle.<br /><br />A couple hours later, Brian appeared in her doorway frowning. “Lindsay, you’ve got to do something about this. The cops are threatening to arrest them all and the higher ups are visualizing a huge PR nightmare.”<br /><br />“What’s the problem?” She asked. She hadn’t heard any commotion and she wasn’t sure what Brian was talking about.<br /><br />“They’ve taken over the parking lot and no one can get in or out.” He replied.<br /><br />Rising, she went with him to reception where she could see the parking lot out the window. “Oh my God!”<br /><br />Sighing she pulled out her cell phone and dialed.<br /><br />“What’s wrong? Are you ok? I knew I shouldn’t have let you go alone!” He exclaimed.<br /><br />“I’m fine.” She answered quickly trying to alleviate his concern. “But the vultures have descended in a big way. They’re clogging access to the building. The cops are threatening to arrest them and my bosses are worried about PR. Any ideas?”<br /><br />He thought for a minute. “Ok, I’m calling in the troops. Stay inside until we get there.”<br /><br />“Ok, will do.” Hanging up she turned to Brian. “Help is on the way.”<br /><br />Twenty minutes later two vans pulled up and began to unload what looked like an army. One group was circulating through the crowd of reporters handing out sheets of paper. Another, slightly larger group made its way to the main door. Entering, the group dispersed revealing Jon at its centre.<br /><br />Moving immediately to Lindsay he wrapped her in his arms. “Are you sure you’re ok?”<br /><br />She smiled and kissed him reassuringly. “I’m fine. Most of them arrived after I was already inside.”<br /><br />A man stepped up and Jon turned to introduce her to the head of his management team. “Lindsay, this is Paul Korzilius, Paul this is Lindsay Chandler.”<br /><br />“Nice to meet you Lindsay.” He shook her hand. “Ok, here’s the plan. The team is out there handing out your official statement.” He handed her one. “I hope it’s ok with you, Jon approved it this morning.” He waited while she skimmed it and nodded her approval. “Good. Now, we’ll give them a few minutes to read it, then the two of you will go out and answer a few questions. Ten minutes tops. Then we’ll cut it off, and advise them if they want more to contact the office, but unless they want to be arrested they’ll leave you alone and allow the business of this office to continue unimpeded. Is that ok with you?” He looked back and forth between them.<br /><br />Jon nodded. Lindsay blew out a nervous breath and added her assent.<br /><br />“Ok then let’s go.” Pausing at the door, Paul looked back at her. “Ready?” When she nodded he gave the signal to the security people to open the door.<br /><br />She felt Jon’s arm tighten around her waist. Glancing up at him she smiled, touched at his concern.<br /><br />Stepping outside the noise was almost deafening. Jon raised his hand to get their attention. “Whoa, one at a time.”<br /><br />“Where did you two meet Jon?” Came the first one.<br /><br />“We were set up by a mutual friend a few months ago.” He answered.<br /><br />“What do your kids of this?” Came next.<br /><br />“They’ve all met Lindsay and like her. They’re fine.” Lindsay could see the muscle twitch in his jaw. He didn’t like them talking about his kids.<br /><br />“Lindsay where are you from?”<br /><br />“I’m originally from a small town in Ontario, Canada, not too far from Niagara Falls.” She responded.<br /><br />“Hey Lindsay, what’s Jon really like?” The innuendo was very strong.<br /><br />“Pretty much like you think he is.” She looked at him and smiled. He grinned back.<br /><br />“So how serious is this? Are you talking marriage?”<br /><br />Lindsay spoke before Jon could. “I don’t know about you, but I’d like to know a man for longer that a few months before jumping into something as serious as marriage.”<br /><br />“C’mon Lindsay, give us the dirt. How is he?”<br /><br />Jon choked, Lindsay smiled a smile that every female in the audience recognized. “I would say that’s for me to know and you to find out, but I don’t share.” She quipped.<br /><br />The crowd laughed.<br /><br />“Have the band members met her and what do they think?”<br /><br />“She has their stamp of approval.” He responded.<br /><br />“How about a kiss?”<br /><br />Lindsay answered. “You’re cute, but I don’t think my boyfriend would like it.”<br /><br />Everyone laughed, including Jon. “Damn right, I don’t share either.” Then he took her in his arms, bent her backwards and kissed her firmly. The crowd cheered.<br /><br />Releasing her he faced the sea of reporters again. “Ok, guys that’s it.”<br /><br />“Please let us do our work here now. There are people that really need our help in the area. I’d really hate to see criminals get away because we can’t access a scene or our resources here fast enough. And I wouldn’t to see any of you get arrested – even if it might help your ratings.” Lindsay pleaded.<br /><br />Turning they entered the building and watched as still laughing, the crowd finally dispersed.<br /><br />“You were great Lindsay.” Paul praised her. “Jon said you spent some time working in politics. I can see that’s going to come in handy.”<br /><br />“Nice job.” Jon hugged her and kissed her briefly. She hugged him back and basked in the glow of his approval.<br /><br />As the team prepared to leave one big burly man, obviously a bodyguard hung back.<br /><br />Jon waved him over and introduced him to Lindsay. “Honey this is Kevin. He’s going to be your bodyguard.” When she would have argued he stopped her. “He will stay out of the way when you’re working. However, don’t go anywhere without telling him and never go anywhere alone.” Seeing the mutinous look on her face he decided to try a different tact. “Please don’t fight me on this. I know you have a job to do, and a life to live. I’m not trying to stop you, I just need to know that you’re safe.” He gazed into her eyes, not hiding any of what he was feeling. “I couldn’t bear it if something happened to you.”<br /><br />She couldn’t argue with what she saw in his eyes – mainly because of the emotion behind it. She sighed and nodded.<br /><br />“So you’ll listen to him and not try to ditch him?” He pressed.<br /><br />“Yes, I will.” She looked at his face. “I promise” She assured him.<br /><br />Relieved, he kissed her again. “Thank you.”<br /><br />“Oh don’t thank me. I expect to be rewarded for being so compliant and understanding.” She smirked.<br /><br />He grinned. “Anything you want honey, anything at all.”Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2233992774788831133.post-5832557809120134832008-11-04T19:03:00.000-08:002008-11-04T19:43:32.604-08:00Chapter 28The next few weeks passed smoothly. Lindsay went out in public with Jon often –just to restaurants, shopping, that kind of thing, nothing big. For the most part they had been left alone. She also spent several days with the kids. Everything was going well. She was starting to relax. <em>Careful, you haven’t had a real test yet!</em> She cautioned herself.<br /><br />She was sitting at her desk when her phone rang.<br /><br />“Hello?”<br /><br />“Hello, is this Lindsay Chandler?”<br /><br />“Yes, it is.”<br /><br />“Hi, this is Janet from Paul Korzilius’ office.”<br /><br />“Oh, hello.” <em>Uh oh, what’s up?</em><br /><br />“Jon wanted me to call you with the details for the charity ball next week.”<br /><br />“The what?”<br /><br />“Uh oh, he didn’t tell you about this did he?” Janet sounded amused.<br /><br />“Uh, no he didn’t.” <em>And I wonder why?<br /></em><br />“Ok, so it’s next Saturday, cocktails from 5-7, dinner at 7 and dancing afterwards. It’s at the Ritz in New York City and proceeds go to children’s charities. It’s a chance for those who can afford the tickets to rub shoulders with some of the biggest local names in the music industry.”<br /><br />Lindsay blew out a breath. “So we’re talking black tie and ballgown here?”<br /><br />“Definitely. I’ve arranged for a limo to pick up everyone at the estate. Will that work for you?”<br /><br />“Yes that will work. You said ‘everyone’. Who else is going?”<br /><br />“Oh, Richie, David, Tico and Hugh are all coming.”<br /><br /><em>Thank God!</em> “Ok…I guess I better go dress shopping. Thanks for giving me the heads up.”<br /><br />“You’re welcome. One of these days men might actually realize that we need some advance notice to prepare for major events like this.” Janet sympathized.<br /><br />“Really? What world are you living in?” Lindsay asked dryly.<br /><br />Janet sighed. “I know, but I live in eternal hope.”<br /><br />They both laughed.<br /><br /><br />Walking out to reception Lindsay hoped Julie could help.<br /><br />“Hey” Julie greeted her.<br /><br />“Hi. I have to buy a new dress for this charity ball next week and I could use some help. Do you have any free time this week?” Lindsay asked.<br /><br />“You mean that children’s charity ball in the city next week?” Lindsay nodded. “Wow, you’ll really be hobnobbing it. I’m envious. You’ll also need a spectacular dress, and I know just the place. How’s tomorrow night after work?” Julie offered.<br /><br />“Sounds great. Thanks Julie.”<br /><br /><br /><br />That night while they were sitting watching TV, Lindsay turned to Jon. “By the way, I’m going to be late tomorrow night.”<br /><br />“Ok, working late?”<br /><br />“No, it seems that I’m expected to attend this ball next week and I need a dress, so I need to go shopping.” She stared at him waiting for his reaction.<br /><br />He nodded. “Janet called you then. Good.”<br /><br />“That’s all you have to say?” She was stunned.<br /><br />“What?” He just looked surprised.<br /><br />“Didn’t it even cross your mind that I might need some time to prepare and maybe you should mention this little outing to me?”<br /><br />“Yeah, that’s why I told Janet to call you.” He looked at her. “Why are you mad?”<br /><br />“Because I’m hearing about things from someone other than you, like you can’t spare the time to tell me yourself. What would have happened if Janet hadn’t called me until next week and I didn’t have time to get ready? She didn’t know you hadn’t told me about it. She was just calling to give me the details. Next time you’ll be going by yourself.” She flopped back on the couch in a snit.<br /><br />He looked at her for a moment thinking about what she had said…..and what she hadn’t. “I’m sorry I didn’t tell you myself. Next time I will, I promise. I’m just bad at remembering those kinds of details and thought if she told you, we’d both be on time. Plus, you would ask me about what to wear and I figured Janet would be a better one to talk to about that.” He caught her eyes with his. “Honey, don’t be nervous. The guys and I will be there. Everything will be fine.”<br /><br />She blew out a breath. “Are the guys bringing dates?”<br /><br />“No, they’re all going stag.”<br /><br />She frowned. “Then why aren’t you?”<br /><br />“Because I don’t want to. Besides I’m hoping having you with me will keep the floozies away.” He smiled. “And I want to show you off.” She snorted at him, but smiled.<br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 29</span><br /><br />The night of the ball she stood looking at herself critically in the bathroom mirror. The dress was rich blue that matched the colour of her eyes exactly. The neckline was a little bit lower than what she normally wore, but it suited the off the shoulder sleeves. The tight fitting bodice nipped in her waist and pushed up her breasts creating a real hourglass effect. The skirt was to her ankles, but the front had a slit that reached mid thigh revealing a smoky stocking encased leg with every step. This was definitely not the sort of dress that she would have picked out herself, but Julie assured her it was perfect and that she looked sexy as hell in it. Now if only she wasn’t afraid to take a deep breath!<br /><br />She had her jewelry laid out on the countertop and had just fastened the second earring when Jon walked into the bathroom….and froze. <br /><br />“Jesus!” Even he couldn’t have said whether it was a curse or a prayer. Walking up behind her he looked over her shoulder into the mirror surveying her with open appreciation. Reaching for her necklace he fastened it around her neck and nudged the pendant into its nest between her breasts with a fingertip. Gripping her waist with both hands he lowered his head and kissed her bare shoulder.<br /><br />“I’m not letting you out of my sight tonight!” She could see the desire blazing in his eyes. It went a long way towards boosting her confidence for what she was going to face tonight. She decided the outrageous cost of the dress was worth it.<br /><br />When she reached the top of the stairs she could hear the guys talking and laughing below. As she descended the staircase she became aware of the sudden silence. Glancing up she saw them all standing there watching her in various stages of shock. Richie’s mouth was even hanging open. Reaching the bottom she gave them a warm smile. “Thank you.”<br /><br />Sensing Jon beside her she glanced at him. He was shaking his head at his friends. Sliding his arm around her waist possessively he smiled smugly. “Down boys, she’s all mine!”<br /><br />In the limo Jon sat beside her. Much to her amusement, every time she moved he would reach to pull her cape closed around her. Helping her out of the car he kept hold of her hand and tucked it firmly in the crook of his arm, keeping her close beside him. <br /><br />Lindsay had never been down a red carpet before. The upside was that she didn’t have time to worry about her appearance. Nearly blind from flashbulbs going off in her face and deaf from screams and yells of “Jon, over here” “Turn this way”, and “We love you!”, all she could do was cling to Jon’s arm and be thankful for his guidance .<br /><br />Once inside, the noise became the dull roar of the conversations of a large crowd. Very large. Waiting in line for the coat check Lindsay leaned close to murmur to Jon. “Are these things always like this?” <br /><br />Bending down to hear her, he grimaced. “Unfortunately, yes.” <br /><br />She nodded. “Do you ever get used to it?”<br /><br />“Sort of. Thankfully we don’t go to many this big.” He answered. Reaching the counter Jon helped her off with her cape and handed it over together with his coat, accepting the tickets from the attendants. Lindsay smiled to herself when she realized the guys had spread out around her like protective buffer. She had never felt so much like a princess. <em>I could get used to this!<br /></em><br />Moving through the crowd was a very slow process. Every few feet someone would call out to Jon and he would have to stop. Lindsay tried not to stare in awe at some of the people she was meeting. Some were record company execs, some were up and coming politicians, but there were a large number of people that she had only seen on TV and never in a million years would have dreamed she’d be meeting. Two in particular would stand out in her memories of the evening. <br /><br />“Hey, Jon!” She heard a man’s voice call out but she couldn’t see who it was. Jon, however knew immediately and stopped and turned towards the voice. As the crowd parted she saw Al Gore approaching. Smiling, Jon hugged him in greeting then turned to Lindsay.<br /><br />“Lindsay I’d like you to meet to meet former Vice President Al Gore. Al, this is Lindsay Chandler.”<br /><br />“Mr. Gore, it’s a pleasure to meet you.” Lindsay responded politely.<br /><br />“Please, call me Al, and the pleasure is all mine.” He gave Jon an approving glance. “Well, I’d heard rumours about a new woman in your life. You sure know how to pick ’em!” They all laughed. Promising to talk later, they separated and melted back into the crowd.<br /><br />A few minutes later they came face to face with “the other guy from New Jersey” and his wife.<br /><br />“Hey man.”<br /><br />“Hey Bruce, hi Patti.” Jon turned. “Bruce and Patti Springsteen,…Lindsay Chandler.”<br /><br />“Hi.” Lindsay smiled and shook hands.<br /><br />“How are you surviving your trial by fire?” Patti asked sympathetically.<br /><br />“So far so good. I have a wonderful band of protectors.” She waved at the guys surrounding her.<br /><br />“Good. Listen if it gets too rough and you need advice or just to talk to someone who’s been there and survived, give me a call. Jon has our number.” Patti offered.<br /><br />“Thank you, I really appreciate that.” Lindsay was amazed at the offer.<br /><br />Finally reaching their table, Lindsay sank gratefully into a chair. “Whew, that was worse than trying to get in a general admission gate!”<br /><br />“Want a drink?” Jon asked chuckling.<br /><br />“Yes please.”<br /><br />“I’ll get it, you stay with Lindsay.” Hugh offered. “If you go we won’t see you until dinner starts.”<br /><br />Sitting beside her Jon rested his arm along the back of her chair and pointed out various celebrities. She was so caught up with what he was saying she didn’t notice the venomous looks she was getting from several women in the room – and leers from more than a few men.<br /><br />Dinner was, as usual with Richie and David around, a laughter filled hour. After, as the band was setting up, people circulated again. Quite a few stopped by their table to visit. Lindsay was quite surprised that they seemed genuinely interested in her work. She was really enjoying herself.<br /><br />As the musicians were warming up she excused herself to find the ladies’ room. Holding her chair for her Jon kissed her ear. “Hurry back.” Standing, she smiled and kissed him briefly.<br /><br />After fighting her way through the crowd and into the bathroom she found an empty stall and sat down in relief, letting the female chatter flow around her.<br /><br />After a few minute a couple voices became clear.<br /><br />“Did you see that woman with Bon Jovi?” the first voice asked snidely.<br /><br />“Yeah, what charity is she with – hopelessly single?” Came the response. They laughed.<br /><br />“Does she really think that dress looks good? I can’t believe they actually make one that big.” The first voice again.<br /><br />“I know. What is he thinking? The man could have any woman in the world. What’s he doing with her? It must be a bet or some contest winner or something. Or maybe he’s just using her to decoy the media. I don’t think it will work though. No one’s going to believe he’s really dating her.” Voice number two.<br /><br />“Could she possibly think he’s really interested in her? Could she be that gullible? That he would really want to be with someone like her?” Their laughter faded as they left the room.<br /><br />Lindsay sat there for a long time shaking and trying not to be sick. She had started to think that things might actually go her way this time. Hearing her worst fears spoken out loud made her stomach sink and her heart ache. Pulling herself together she exited the stall and stood in front of the mirror. <em>They’re just jealous. She told herself. Don’t let them do this to you. They’re just like that blonde at Elements. If Jon didn’t want you with him you wouldn’t be here.</em> <br /><br />Confidence partially restored she refreshed her lipstick and left the bathroom. She was fighting her was through the crowd when she heard snippets of a conversation between a couple that made the blood in her veins freeze.<br /><br />“Who’s the woman with Bon Jovi?” the woman asked.<br /><br />“I don’t know, but more importantly, where did he find her? Talk about a charity case!” the man answered.<br /><br />“I know. You don’t think he’s really interested in her do you?” she asked.<br /><br />“No way! As I understand it, he was so afraid of getting swarmed by women after his marriage broke up that he needed someone to throw them off the scent so that he could pick his women at his own speed.” He informed her.<br /><br />“Oh, that explains it then. For a minute I thought he was losing his mind!” Their voices drifted off as the crowd moved on.<br /><br />Lindsay fought to breathe. <em> Could it be true? Has everything he’s said been a lie?</em> She didn’t want to believe it, but it would explain why he was with her. Remembering Jon’s reaction when he first saw her in the dress she realized he was a better actor that she thought. <em>That was an Oscar worthy performance.</em> Stiffening her spine and holding her head high she headed back to the table wondering how much longer she had to endure this evening before she could go home and lick her wounds in private.<br /><br />Pasting what she hoped was a convincing smile on her face as she neared the table she was thankful that Jon was in conversation with some man from the record company. Sinking into her chair she reached for her wine glass. Draining it she reached for the bottle. Unfortunately there wasn’t enough wine in the room to deaden the pain she was feeling.<br /><br />She didn’t notice that Richie was watching her.<br /><br />Conversation finished, Jon turned to her. Looking at her face he frowned. “What’s wrong?”<br /><br />“Nothing.” She tried to smile.<br /><br />“Don’t lie to me. I can see it in your face.”<br /><br />She shook her head. “I’m fine, really, just feeling a little squished after fighting through that crowd. I’ll be ok now that I can breathe.”<br /><br />He didn’t look convinced, but he let it drop. The band was playing the music of the artists that were in the room. Lindsay smiled when she heard the opening notes of <em>Bed of Roses</em>.<br /><br />Jon grabbed her hand and started to stand. “Come on, let’s dance.”<br /><br />Everyone at the table stopped and stared at him. “What? You guys act like I never dance.”<br /><br />“You don’t.” They responded in unison.<br /><br />“Well, I am tonight.” Pulling her chair back he tugged her to her feet and out onto the dance floor. Taking her into his arms he began revolving slowly around the floor. Unable to help himself he started singing softly. She smiled.<br /><br />“That’s better.” He murmured. She looked at him questionly. “You smiled. Feeling better?”<br /><br />“Mmm.” She answered vaguely.<br /><br />On the side of the dance floor two couples were watching and discussing the dancers.<br /><br />“There they are. Who is she?” one woman asked.<br /><br />“Who cares, she won’t be around long anyway.” Her husband replied.<br /><br />“You don’t think it’s for real then?” the other woman asked.<br /><br />“No way. Look at her. Do you really think he would pick someone like her?” the man answered.<br /><br />“I don’t know. They seem pretty close.” His wife argued.<br /><br />“Peter’s right. Apparently, he’s so afraid of being hunted by hordes of women since he split with his wife, he needed a decoy to allow him to check out the field.” The other man explained.<br /><br />“Aah, that explains it.” His wife responded. “I wondered what he was thinking.”<br /><br />None of them noticed Richie standing behind them listening. <em>Bingo!</em> He knew he had discovered the source of Lindsay’s upset tonight. He knew better than anyone how rumours could hurt a relationship. He was afraid there were going to be a rough couple of days ahead for Jon and Lindsay. Heading back to the table he started thinking of ways to help his best friend and his new love.<br /><br /><br />Lindsay was very quiet on the ride home. She was trying to make sense of everything. On the one hand was Jon, the things he said and did, and the way he made her feel. On the other hand was the comments she heard tonight which echoed her darkest fears and fit with her past pattern. She didn’t know which to believe. When they pulled into the driveway of the estate she knew she couldn’t stay there tonight. Jon would want to talk about what was bothering her and she wasn’t ready for that yet. She knew this was probably her last chance with him. If she believed the rumours, accused him, and she was wrong, she would piss him off and lose him. He’d been very patient with her phobia, but there was a limit to what he would put up with…and she was afraid this was it. She needed to be sure. She needed to think.<br /><br />Entering the house, she slipped upstairs, wrote Jon a note and snuck out to her car and home.<br /><br />Ten minutes later Jon went upstairs to see if she was ok. “Damn it!”<br /><br />Back downstairs he stormed into the den where the guys were and flopped into a chair.<br /><br />“Where’s Lindsay?” David asked.<br /><br />“Apparently she went home.” Jon bit out.<br /><br />“Home? How come? Is she alright?” This from Tico.<br /><br />Jon sighed. “Her note said she was tired and needed to go into the office tomorrow and didn’t want to spoil the party so she went home.”<br /><br />“Do you believe that?” Hugh asked. “She didn’t say a word the whole way home.”<br /><br />“I know. Something’s bothering her, but she won’t talk about it.” Jon’s frustration was showing.<br /><br />“Maybe she just needs some time to sort it out herself before she talks to you.” Richie offered. <em>And I’m going to help her do just that</em>.<br /><br />“Maybe.” Jon shrugged. “I guess I’ll just have to wait until tomorrow to find out, but damn! I’m tired of these dramatics!”<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 30</span><br /><br />Sitting at her desk the next day Lindsay was trying desperately to sort out her thoughts. It would be easy to believe the cruel words she’d overheard the night before. Just let the pain of the past rule her future. But did she really want to take the easy way? Was she willing to walk away from Jon just because of a few jealous people? She didn’t know those people so did she really care what they thought? And as far as she knew, Jon didn’t know them either, so how would they know what he was thinking anyway! But did she? That’s what it really came down to. If Jon truly cared for her, wasn’t he worth the risk? No one had ever made her feel like he did – sexy, special, appreciated, wanted…loved. Wasn’t that worth fighting for? But did he mean it, or was it just window dressing like they said?<br /><br />So if she couldn’t trust the rumours, who could she trust? She should look at the reactions of the people who did know Jon. From the beginning, those closest to him didn’t bat an eyelash at her being with him. Everyone, from his mother, to his brother, to his closest friends welcomed her with open arms. There were no surprised looks, no questioning glances, just complete acceptance. In fact, Jon’s bandmates were very protective of her – like a sister. And even last night, the people he introduced her to like Al Gore and the Springsteen’s didn’t seem the least bit surprised at Jon’s choice of date.<br /><br />Her thoughts were interrupted by the ringing of her phone. Afraid it might be Jon when she wasn’t ready yet to talk to him she glanced at the call display. It was reception.<br /><br />“Hi Barb.” She greeted the weekend receptionist.<br /><br />“Hi, Lindsay. There’s someone here to see you, can you come out?” She had been warned by Brian to be extra cautious about who was let in.<br /><br />“Sure, I’ll be right there.” Heading out the door, Lindsay took a deep breath. Unlike Julie, Barb wasn’t a fan, and wouldn’t necessarily know who Jon was. Reaching reception, she was pleasantly surprised, and a touch concerned.<br /><br />“Hi Richie.” She greeted him.<br /><br />“Hi Lindsay. Sorry to bother you at work, but can we talk?” He looked determined.<br /><br />“Sure, come to my office.” She getting more and more worried. “Is something wrong?”<br /><br />“No, and I’m here to help you see that.” He responded cryptically.<br /><br />Entering her office she waved him to a chair and sat down. “What’s up?”<br /><br />He hesitate a moment. “What happened last night?”<br /><br />“I was tired and needed to come in here today and I didn’t want to spoil the party, so I went home.”<br /><br />Richie nodded. “Yeah, that’s what Jon said your note said…..but I don’t buy it.” When she looked at him in surprised he continued. “You didn’t say a word all the way home, I saw your face when you came back from the bathroom…and I heard a few people talking when you were dancing.”<br /><br />“What did you hear?” she asked warily.<br /><br />“I’m guessing the same bullshit you did – that Jon wasn’t really interested in you and that it was all a charade.”<br /><br />She sighed. “Did you tell Jon?”<br /><br />“No. I wanted to talk to you first.” He paused. “I’m also guessing that you took off last night to avoid talking to him about it.” He waited until she nodded in confirmation. “And you’re not sure what to think or who to believe.” <br /><br />She grimaced. “You’re good.” She paused. “My head tells me to believe Jon and those closest to him and not a bunch of people who barely know him, but my heart’s afraid of being wrong – again. I’m not sure I could survive it this time.”<br /><br />“Those people are nothing but a bunch of wanna be’s – the men want to be him and the women want to be with him. Listen, I probably know Jon as well as anyone, and better than most. I can honestly tell you that I haven’t seen him this happy in a very long time, and it’s because of you. I understand where you’re coming from and how you feel, but trust me – this is for real. If you can’t take my word for it, take Jon’s.” He pulled a tape recorder out of his pocket and set it on the desk. “I want you to hear this. Jon wrote it about a week after Stephanie was found.” He caught her eye. “<strong>Jon</strong> wrote this by himself. He played it for me when I came up to work on the new album.”<br /><br />When he pressed play the strains of an acoustic guitar filled the office – no other instruments, just the guitar and Jon’s voice. As the ballad’s intro swelled Lindsay felt her stomach flutter in anticipation of what she was going to hear.<br /><br /> <br /> <em>Everyone thought that I had it made<br /> But fame and fortune all too soon fade<br /> The love I thought would never die<br /> Kicked my ass when she said goodbye<br /><br /> My world has been so cold for way too long<br /> I felt so alone until you came along<br /> My heart ached to feel some honest emotion<br /> Your kiss is a balm, your love a healing potion<br /><br /> Things aren’t always what they seem<br /> On the surface<br /> The worst nightmares can seem a dream<br /> On the surface<br /> <br /> You entered my life and shook me to the core<br /> Loving and caring you made me want more<br /> Beautiful,smart you captured my attention<br /> Compassionate and giving, you earned my affection<br /><br /> Things aren’t always what they seem<br /> On the surface<br /> The worst nightmares can seem a dream<br /> On the surface<br /><br /> People may question, but they just don’t see<br /> All that you are, what you mean to me<br /> You’re all that I’ve searched for, you’re all that I need<br /> You’re all that I want, what I need to succeed<br /><br /> Things aren’t always what they seem<br /> On the surface<br /> The worst nightmares can seem a dream<br /> On the surface<br /></em> <br /><em> Finally, my heart’s desire and reality have joined and emerged<br /> On the surface</em> <br /><br /><br />Lindsay sat silent for several minutes after the song ended, ignoring the tears streaming down her face. Looking at Richie she tried to smile through her tears. “Thank you.”<br /><br />He shrugged. “I thought it might help you.” He paused. “Look Lindsay, I like you, and Jon is like a brother to me. I didn’t want the speculations of some jealous idiots ruining what the two of you could have together. I know better than anyone what unfounded rumours can do to a relationship.” He frowned.<br /><br />Lindsay reached over and squeezed his hand. “I’m really sorry for what you’re going through Rich. I haven’t known you very long, and I don’t know Heather at all, but I think I can safely say that you deserve better.” <br /><br />He smiled. “Thanks. I’m slowly coming to that conclusion myself.”<br /><br />She blew out a breath. “So, how mad is Jon?”<br /><br />“I think he’s more frustrated than mad. He’s never experienced anything like what you’ve been through, and he doesn’t know how to help you.” He looked at her. “Do you want my advice?” She nodded. “Tell him the truth. Tell him what you heard, and Lindsay…tell him how you feel about him. You’d be amazed at how those three little words can heal a world of hurt.”<br /><br />“Three little words?” She was almost afraid to ask.<br /><br />He nodded. “Mmmhmmm…..I love you.” He was still grinning at her surprised expression as he walked out the door.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2233992774788831133.post-91183342437653546012008-11-04T18:20:00.000-08:002008-11-04T19:03:34.450-08:00Chapter 27Lindsay was heading back to her office after lunch the next day when Julie stopped her.<br /><br />“It sounds like Jon Bon Jovi has a new girlfriend.” She was waving a paper at Lindsay.<br /><br />“Oh? What are the gossips saying?” Lindsay tried not to show how interested she really was.<br /><br />“Just that he and the guys were at his brother’s place last night and Jon had a girl with him. They say that by the way he treated her it was obvious they were more than just friends.” Julie reported.<br /><br />“Do they say who she is?” <br /><br />“Nope, nobody knows…..yet, but you know these reporters…they snoop around until they find out. Did you pick up on anything when you’ve talked to him?” Julie asked eagerly.<br /><br />Lindsay didn’t want to lie to her, but a thought just occurred to her and she wanted to talk to Jon before she let the cat out of the bag. “I’ll have to think about it. I’ll let you know if I come up with something.”<br /><br />Entering her office she reached for the phone, but it rang before she could pick it up.<br /><br />“Hello?”<br /><br />“Hi, honey, how are you?” There was concern in his voice.<br /><br />“You must be psychic. I was just about to call you. But you first, is something wrong?”<br /><br />He hesitated. “No, I just wanted to see how you were doing today.”<br /><br />Lindsay laughed. “I can see that I’m not going to have to worry about you lying to me…you’re horrible at it. What you really want to know is if I’ve seen the paper and how I’m taking it.”<br /><br />He chuckled. “Yeah, but I can tell you’re ok.”<br /><br />“Yes I am, but I just thought of something which is why I was going to call you. What if the kids see it?”<br /><br />“It’s ok, I talked to Stephanie and Jesse yesterday while you were sleeping. They were prepared. They’re planning a day for us this weekend if you don’t have to work – just you, me, and the kids so that everyone can start to get to know each other.”<br /><br />“How did Stephanie take the news?” Lindsay asked.<br /><br />“She was a little surprised, but she didn’t seem to be upset, why?”<br /><br />“I was afraid that she might be angry that I didn’t say something to her that night we went out. I’m hoping that she doesn’t think that I lied to her.”<br /><br />“I don’t think she does, but the two of you can discuss it this weekend.”<br /><br />“Yeah, I guess.” She hesitated. “Jon, I need some advice. I can’t decide the best way to handle this.”<br /><br />“What are you thinking?”<br /><br />“Well, the vultures don’t know who I am yet. Should we wait until they figure it out, or should I tell my friends and colleagues and get it over with? You know better than I do what they’re capable of. Should we talk to Paul?”<br /><br />“Paul already called me this morning when he saw the papers. They’re ready with the standard ‘no comment’ and that my private life is private until we tell them differently. As for the rest, honey, it’s really whatever you’re comfortable with. If the vultures find you they will most likely follow you to work and try to talk to your friends. Plus, will Julie and the others be upset that you didn’t tell them?” The knot that had formed in his chest when he saw the papers loosened considerably. Not only did she seem to be taking it well, she was including him in her decision making – definitely a good sign.<br /><br />“That’s what I was thinking too, and if the vultures are going to show up here, I really should warn my boss.” She frowned.<br /><br />“Do you think he’s going to have a problem with this?” He had heard the strange note in her voice.<br /><br />“No, as a matter of fact I think he’s expecting it.”<br /><br />“What? Why would he?”<br /><br />“I don’t know, but you remember that night after that horrible crime scene and you came to take me home?”<br /><br />“Yeah, I saw you walk out together.”<br /><br />“Yeah. He was concerned that I was going home alone. Then he saw you and said ‘never mind I can see that you will be well taken care of’. Jon,<strong> I</strong> could barely recognize you, but not only did Brian know it was you, he knew that you were there for me!” She still couldn’t fathom how.<br /><br />“Wow, he’s good” Jon was impressed. “And with the police station next door I won’t have to worry about your safety.”<br /><br />“Well, wish me luck, I’m about to spill the beans. If you hear a big scream, don’t worry, that will just be Julie. She’s either going to hate me or try to tear me apart in her excitement.”<br /><br />He chuckled. “Want me to come protect you?”<br /><br />“No, then she’d try and tear <strong>you</strong> apart…and I like your parts just where they are. I’ll talk to you later.”<br /><br />“Ok, see ya hon.” He was still chuckling.<br /><br />Heading down the hallway Lindsay decided that if she wanted to tell Brian herself, she should tell him first. Once Julie knew the whole office would know. Julie was a lot of fun and could keep secrets regarding the office and its cases, but when it came to the entertainment world she was the <em>National Enquirer’s</em> dream come true.<br /><br />Reaching Brian’s office she knocked and looked in the open doorway. He was reading a newspaper, but looked up at her knock and waved her in.<br /><br />“Hi Lindsay, have a seat.” He didn’t give her a chance to say anything. He motioned to the paper on his desk. “Got something you want to tell me?”<br /><br />She stared at him, stunned. “How did you know?”<br /><br />He smiled. “I’ve spent a long time watching and learning to read people. I knew from that first visit to his house that you were attracted to him and that things were not good between him and his wife. I just sat back and watched. I knew from the way he looked at you the day we brought his daughter home, that he was feeling more that gratitude. I also knew that if there was a chance of the lab being affected by any of it that you would tell me.”<br /><br />She shook her head in amazement. “Yes, and that’s why I’m here. So far, the paparazzi don’t know who I am. But they’ll search until they find me. Then they may come here. I just wanted you to know ahead of time and not get blindsided by it.”<br /><br />Brian nodded. “I appreciate that. I’ll alert security to be on the lookout. Don’t worry they won’t get to you here.”<br /><br />“Thanks, hopefully it won’t last long. They’ll get bored and find someone else to harass.” Rising she left his office.<br /><br /><em>One down.</em> Reaching reception Lindsay had to wait until Julie got off the phone. While she waited she reread the article in the gossip rag on the desk.<br /><br />“Hey Lindsay what’s up?” Julie inquired as she hung up the phone.<br /><br />“When you asked me before about this,” she waved at the paper, “I wasn’t completely honest with you. I do know who Jon is seeing.”<br /><br />“You do? Who? And why didn’t you tell me?!” Julie was more than a little excited.<br /><br />“I didn’t tell you because I had to talk to Jon first. He’s got four kids that have to be considered.” She paused. “The woman is…me.” She waited for the explosion.<br /><br />There was silence for a long moment then Julie laughed. “Yeah right, sure, good one Lindsay.” When Lindsay didn’t laugh and admit she was joking Julie looked confused. “But the other night after the concert, backstage, you hardly spoke to him.”<br /><br />Lindsay smiled wryly. “That’s because I was pissed at him for inviting us backstage and risking exposing our relationship.” She sighed. “To make a long story short, I didn’t want this” another wave at the paper “to happen and he knew it and I was angry. Anyway, we’ve worked that all out, but now the story is out. They don’t know who I am yet, but when they find out they will be all over this place and my friends. I wanted you to be prepared.”<br /><br />Julie took a minute to process everything, then looked hurt. “Why didn’t you tell me? I thought we were friends. You didn’t trust me.”<br /><br />“I’m sorry Julie. It’s not that I didn’t trust you. I didn’t tell anyone. It took me quite awhile to accept that this relationship was real. I mean, my God, he’s a rock star and I’m just…me. If it makes you feel any better you’re the first one I’ve told.” <em>That’s not a lie, Jon told the guys and his family, and Brian figured it out for himself. <br /></em><br />It took another minute before Julie nodded in acceptance and then grinned. “So you’re really dating him? OH MY GOD Lindsay you are soooo lucky! When did it start? What’s he really like? Will he be coming by here often? OH MY GOD I CAN’T BELIEVE IT!” She grabbed Lindsay, hugged her and jumped up and down in her excitement.<br /><br />Laughing Lindsay tried to calm her down, but she wouldn’t settle until Lindsay had told her the whole story – the edited version.<br /><br />“Don’t worry. I won’t let the reporters in the door, and I won’t tell them anything without checking with you first.” Julie promised.<br /><br />“Thanks Julie, I really appreciate it.” And she headed back to her office. <em>Two down. I’d better call Mom.<br /></em><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 26<br /></span><br />Saturday morning Lindsay had just finished dressing when her phone rang.<br /><br />“Hello?”<br /><br />“Lindsay? When are you coming? We’re all at the house waiting for you!”<br /><br />“Stephanie?”<br /><br />“Yeah it’s me, we’re just about finished breakfast and – <strong>ow</strong>! Jesse quit poking me with your fork! We can’t decide what we’re doing today until you get here. Yes, Jake I’ll ask her. Jake wants to know if you will play Candyland with him. Dad, Romeo’s gotta pee!”<br /><br />Lindsay struggled not to laugh as she listened to what was happening at the other end of the line. Her oldest brother had four kids so she was familiar with conversations like this.<br /><br />“I’m on my way and tell Jake that I love boardgames and Candyland is one of my favorites.”<br /><br />“Great! Please hurry, these guys are such…boys!”<br /><br />“I hear you. Hang tight, I’ll be there in a few minutes.”<br /><br />“Ok, bye…JESSE KNOCK IT OFF!” And the line disconnected.<br /><br />Still chuckling Lindsay gathered up her jacket, purse, and keys and headed for the door. <br /><br />Turning into the driveway she blew out a breath as she waited for the gates to open. She hadn’t slept well the night before, worrying about how this day would go. It didn’t help that she had slept alone because the kids had come last night. <em>I think I’d rather face an army of reporters than these four kids. What if they don’t like me? Here I am worrying about public opinion ending this relationship, when the opinion of these four could end it so much faster!<br /></em><br />When she approached the door it opened before she reached it. Lindsay found herself face to face with a dark haired boy who looked to be about eleven or so.<br /><br />“Are you Lindsay?” he asked looking at her closely.<br /><br />“Yes, I am. And you must be Jesse.” <br /><br />He nodded and turned his head to yell into the house. “SHE’S HERE!” He stepped back to let her in the door.<br /><br />Turning to shut the door behind her she took another deep breath as she heard feet running towards them.<br /><br />“Lindsay!” Stephanie came first giving Lindsay a big hug. “I thought you’d never get here!” <br /><br />Lindsay smiled and hugged her back. Releasing her, she straightened only to feel a tug on her pantleg. Glancing down she looked into a pair of familiar blue eyes. She crouched down until she was at his level. “You must be Jake.” <br /><br />He nodded, a little unsure. “Daddy says you’re going to be around a lot and he wants us to be friends.”<br /><br />“I’d like that too.”<br /><br />“Uncle Richie says you make the best chocolate chip cookies.” He said wistfully.<br /><br />She smiled. “Do you like chocolate chip cookies?”<br /><br />He nodded solemnly. <br /><br />“Would you like to help me make some later?” She offered.<br /><br />His face lit up and he nodded. Before she could stand up she was almost knocked over by an out of control missile. “Me..me…me too!”<br /><br />Catching her balance she looked down at the missile, which turned out to be a blonde haired toddler. “Ok, me too, you can help too.” She laughed. Feeling hands grab her to help her to her feet she looked up.<br /><br />“My turn.” Lifting her to her feet he gathered her into his arms. “Hello.”<br /><br />“Hi.” She murmured. When he bent to kiss her she stopped him with a hand on his chest and a sharp glance towards the kids. Smiling he ignored the pressure of her hand and pressed his lips briefly to hers.<br /><br />“Yuck, mushy stuff.” This from Jesse.<br /><br />“Tell me that in a few years kiddo.” Jon chuckled. Putting his arm around Lindsay’s waist he herded everyone into the den.<br /><br />The morning was spent playing various board games and answering questions. Over lunch they discussed activities for the afternoon and evening.<br /><br />“Why don’t we rent a couple movies for tonight?” Stephanie suggested.<br /><br />“Sure, we could do that. What’s everybody want for supper? If we need to hit the grocery store we might as well hit the video store at the same time.” Lindsay responded.<br /><br />“Pizza.”<br /><br />“Tacos”<br /><br />“Spaghetti.”<br /><br />“No way, I don’t like canned spaghetti.” Jesse complained.<br /><br />“What? Sacrilege!” Lindsay exclaimed. “Who eats canned spaghetti?”<br /><br />“You mean you know how to make real spaghetti sauce?” Jesse looked hopeful. “We haven’t had real sauce since the last family dinner at Grandma’s.” <br /><br />“With garlic bread?” Jake asked.<br /><br />“And Caesar salad?” Jon asked with the same hopeful expression as Jesse.<br /><br />Lindsay laughed. “Ok, you got it.”<br /><br />“Cookies!” Romeo added.<br /><br />“And cookies.” Lindsay agreed.<br /><br />After raiding the cupboards and making a grocery list, Lindsay gathered up car keys and purse and looked at the kids. “Who’s coming with me?”<br /><br />“I will.” Stephanie spoke up immediately.<br /><br />“How about you Jesse, do want to come help pick out the movies?” Lindsay asked. Jesse had been very quiet all morning and she was hoping to draw him out a little.<br /><br />He hesitated. “Ok.”<br /><br />When they returned Lindsay started the sauce and got the kids started on the cookies. Jesse sat back with Jon at first and watched, but when Lindsay seasoned the sauce she got him to taste test it. Nodding his approval he started to relax a little and by the time the first cookies were coming out of the oven he was first in line, declaring himself the official taste tester.<br /><br />Jon had sat and watched the whole process without saying much except to offer his opinion on whether there was enough chocolate chips in the dough. Now he stood and came up behind Lindsay and reached around her to grab a cookie. Squeezing her waist with his free hand he murmured in her ear. “Nicely done.” When she looked at him questionly he nodded faintly in Jesse’s direction. She smiled.<br /><br />They were sitting in the den waiting for the sauce to cook when Stephanie asked Lindsay to go for a walk. Grabbing their jackets they headed out the back door. <br /><br />When they were out of earshot of the house Lindsay turned to Stephanie. “What’s on your mind Steph?”<br /><br />“What are your intentions towards my father?” she blurted out. “I mean are you going to marry him?”<br /><br />Lindsay choked. “Well, I honestly don’t know. We’re not at that point yet. I’m still trying to get a handle on dating him. I can tell you that I like being with him and I care about him very much.”<br /><br />“Good, ‘cause I think he really likes you too.” She looked down and kicked at a stone on the path.<br /><br />“What made you ask about marriage?” Lindsay asked softly.<br /><br />Stephanie hesitated a long moment. “I think Mom and Sam are talking about it.”<br /><br />“And how do you feel about that?”<br /><br />She shrugged. And then her bravado disappeared and Lindsay saw the hurt and confused child underneath the maturing girl. “Why does it have to be so soon? Why can’t it just be us for awhile?” Then, “Why couldn’t she love Daddy anymore?”<br /><br />“Oh sweetie, come here.” Lindsay held her while she cried. When the tears stopped they walked to a bench and sat down. “Do you want to know what I think?” Lindsay asked carefully, not wanting to push. Stephanie nodded. “I think that a part of your mom will always love your dad. They just don’t make each other happy anymore. As for her and Sam,….sweetie, why don’t you sit down and talk to your mom. Tell her that you need some time before she makes more changes in your life. I bet if you do she’ll listen.”<br /><br />Stephanie sniffed. “Do you really think so?”<br /><br />“Yes, I do. I think it’s worth a try anyway. What do you think?”<br /><br />“I guess.” She sounded so forlorn that Lindsay’s heart went out to her.<br /><br />They sat there for a while longer until they started to get cold. Then they raced each other to the house. Walking back into the den Jon looked at Stephanie’s face and quickly turned to Lindsay who smiled as she passed behind his chair and squeezed his shoulder reassuringly. <br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 27</span><br /><br />After dinner Lindsay gave Romeo and Jake a bath and got them ready for bed while Jon and Stephanie made popcorn and Jesse served the drinks and arranged blankets and pillows for a comfortable movie night. Taking a seat at the end of a couch, Lindsay made herself comfortable, while Jesse, Jake and Romeo sprawled on blankets on the floor.<br /><br />Walking into the room, Stephanie handed the boys a bowl of popcorn, took hers and curled up with a blanket in her favorite chair. Jon handed Lindsay the bowl he carried, plopped a pillow in her lap, flopped down on the couch and put his head on the pillow. Looking for someplace to set the bowl Lindsay shrugged and set it on his chest.<br /><br />Halfway through the first movie Romeo was out cold. By the end of it Jake had joined him. During intermission Lindsay cleaned up the bowls while Jon carried them up to bed.<br /><br />Grinning, Lindsay took the opportunity to stretch out on the couch. When Jon returned and saw her he just walked over, rolled her on her side and laid down behind her on the wide couch. Sliding his arm over her waist he pulled her back against him and held her securely.<br /><br />By the end of the second movie, Stephanie and Jesse were both fighting to stay awake.<br /><br />“Ok, you two, bed time.” Jon announced.<br /><br />Yawning, they both got up. “’Night.” Jesse mumbled and started for the stairs. He stopped and turned back. “Lindsay?”<br /><br />“Yes?”<br /><br />“Thanks for everything today.”<br /><br />“You’re welcome sweetie. Sleep tight.”<br /><br />Stephanie came over kissed her father good night and gave Lindsay a hug. “Thanks Lindsay.”<br /><br />“You’re welcome, ‘night sweetie.”<br /><br />When they were alone, Jon grabbed her and nuzzled her ear. “Wanna neck?” He suggested playfully.<br /><br />Laughing she wrapped her arms around his neck. “But what if we get caught? I feel like a teenager in my parents house.”<br /><br />“Are you trying to warn me that you’re going to get me all hot and bothered and then leave me high and dry?”<br /><br />“Well, I’m not going upstairs with you, so unless you can guarantee that no one will come down those stairs, you’re out of luck tonight.”<br /><br />He groaned and sat up. “Ok, I guess you’re right.” Running his hands through his hair he looked down at her. “What’s up with Stephanie?”<br /><br />“She’s at an age where her mind and body are torn between the child she was and the adult she’s trying to become. Throw in all the changes going on around her right now and you have a very confused girl looking for some stability. She just needed a shoulder to cry on and a sounding board. She thinks that Dorothea and Sam are talking about getting married. I hope they hold off for a while. She’s not ready to deal with more change right now.”<br /><br />He nodded. “You’re doing a wonderful job with her by the way.”<br /><br />“Thank you. I think Jesse’s going to be a harder nut to crack.” She sighed.<br /><br />“You made a good start today, but you’re right. He is more reserved. The little ones love you already.” He smiled.<br /><br />She smiled back. “It’s easier at that age. You can win them over with cookies.” They both laughed.<br /><br />Yawning, she stood up. “Sorry honey, but I didn’t sleep very well last night and if I don’t get moving I’ll fall asleep on the way home.”<br /><br />“Are you sure you don’t want to stay here tonight? I don’t want you getting in an accident because you’re too tired.”<br /><br />“I’m sure. The kids aren’t ready to find me here in the morning. Besides, this way you can all talk about me over breakfast.” She yawned again.<br /><br />He chuckled. “Ok, get some sleep. I didn’t sleep well last night either, and I’m not expecting much better tonight.” His lips twisted. “I don’t sleep well without you beside me.”<br /><br />He walked her to the door and helped her with her jacket. Pulling her close he kissed her deeply. “Drive safe. I’ll see you tomorrow night.”<br /><br /><br /><br />The next night when Jon arrived at her apartment, Lindsay didn’t beat around the bush. “Well? What’s the verdict? Did I pass?”<br /><br />“What makes you think we talked about you today?” He teased.<br /><br />“Don’t tease me. I’ve been going nuts all day wondering what was going on at your house.” She pouted.<br /><br />He chuckled and hugged her. “Relax. You passed. You already know how Stephanie feels. Jesse said you were ‘nice I guess’ and a good cook, Jake said you made good cookies, and Romeo thinks you smell nice -‘like chocolate’.”<br /><br />“I guess the way to a man’s heart really is through his stomach.” She laughed.<br /><br />“A boy’s heart maybe. A man’s heart pathway starts a little lower.” He leered at her.<br /> <br />She chuckled. “Are you hungry?”<br /><br />“Mmmm” was the only answer she got as he started nibbling on her ear. Shivering, she tilted her head to give him greater access. Accepting her invitation he slid his open mouth down her neck to suck on the network of nerves that met where her neck joined her shoulder. She shuddered in response. Suddenly pulling away she stood, grabbed his hand and led him into the bedroom.<br /><br />Stopping beside the bed, she turned to face him. Stepping close she reached up to slide her hands into his hair, massaging his scalp. Raising on tiptoe she covered his lips with hers, sucking his bottom lip into her mouth where she gently raked it with her teeth.<br /><br />Groaning, he reached for her and pulled her close against his hard body. Taking control of the kiss he thrust his tongue into her mouth tasting her thoroughly. He ran his hands up and down her back urging her even closer.<br /><br />Moaning, she slid her hands down his chest to his waist. Reaching for the bottom of his shirt she slipped her hands underneath and slowly pushed up caressing his ribs as she went. Raising his arms he released her lips to allow her to remove the shirt completely. Before he could recapture her mouth she lowered her head and captured one male nipple between her teeth and rasped lightly causing him to arch his back in response.<br /><br />Easing her back slightly he grasped the bottom of her sweater and in one smooth movement lifted it up and off. Bending her back over his arm he traced the tip of his tongue around the lace edge of her bra. Seeing the tight peaks that had formed he licked them through the lace until the damp material clung closely to her flesh. Taking first one, then the other into his mouth he bit gently listening to her breath shorten until she was gasping. Releasing the front clasp of her bra he used his teeth to bare her for his sweet torture. Using two fingers he rubbed the tips of her breasts over and over in a circular motion enjoying her cries of pleasure. Arching her back more he swooped down, replacing his fingers with his mouth and suckled strongly. She screamed, grasped his head with both hands and pulled him harder against her.<br /><br />When her knees gave way, he picked her up and laid her gently on the bed, quickly removing the rest of her clothes and his own. Still standing beside the bed he ran his hand up and down her legs until they flexed involuntarily and she opened for him. Gently caressing her most sensitive flesh he urged her thighs wider until there was room for him. <br /><br />Moaning, she reached for him, tugging on his arms until he lowered his body onto hers bracing his weight on his elbows. Smoothing her hair off her forehead he nibbled her lips as he teased her with the tip of his shaft. Grasping his buttocks with both hands she tried to force him deeper, but couldn’t budge him. He chuckled. Growling in frustration she used her nails. Gasping, he gave in, entering her slowly so that she felt every burrowing inch. She shuddered hard. Buried to the hilt he held still for long moments until he could no longer ignore her undulating movements beneath him. He began moving, slowly rocking against her. Wanting to feel more of him she pulled on his arms until he relented and lowered his full weight onto her. Wrapping her arms around him she captured his tongue and sucked it into her mouth matching his rhythm. Groaning he increased his speed and she kept up. Harder, faster, deeper until she went rigid beneath him and screamed her release. Feeling her pulsations tugging at him, with a throttled shout he followed her into oblivion.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2233992774788831133.post-26414487530639273582008-11-04T18:03:00.000-08:002008-11-04T18:20:00.954-08:00Chapter 22The day of the concert as they all gathered for a late breakfast Jon handed Lindsay her tickets for the show.<br /><br />“Thanks. The girls are so excited I bet Julie didn’t sleep at all last night. What time are you guys heading down?” she asked as they entered the dining room.<br /><br />“Just after noon. Obie’s muttering about acoustics and wants us there early for a sound check.” He answered.<br /><br />“Have you decided whether you’re coming back tonight or staying in AC?”<br /><br />“We’ll probably stay there. When are you planning to leave?”<br /><br />“About two I think. Sheila said something about wanting to check out some casinos first…and try to get a glimpse of you guys of course.” She smiled even though it was a touchy subject.<br /><br />“Aren’t you going with us?” David inquired. Richie kicked David under the table and shook his head.<br /><br />“No, I’m going with some girl friends. I’ll be the one in the,” she looked at the tickets, then at Jon in gratitude, “front row dancing, screaming and singing along.”<br /><br />She gave Jon a big hug. “I’ve never been in the front row before. Thank you.” He just nodded.<br /><br /><br /><br />Taking one last look in the mirror, in full concert gear (and a little more risqué than what she would normally wear)and tugging lightly on her shirt, she blew out a breath, grabbed her jacket, and ran down to meet the girls. The trip to Atlantic City was short and full of laughs. It turned out that Sheila had never been to a Bon Jovi concert, so the other three were kept busy answering her questions about what to expect. <br /><br />Touring around Atlantic City they took a short walk on the boardwalk, explored a few casinos and had a quick bite to eat before heading over to the Borgata early. Julie, Sheila and Barb were determined to track down the band, while Lindsay prayed that they didn’t. She wasn’t sure what Jon would do and didn’t want to take any chances.<br /><br />Finally it was show time. Being in the front row in a venue like the Borgata was incredible. No fences ten feet out from the stage, in fact, if they really tried (and the burly security guards let them), they could touch it.<br /><br />When the lights dimmed, Tico, David and Hugh came out first. David stepped forward, did a little spin and waved to the crowd. Lindsay heard two girls behind her discussing him. “David looks really good tonight.” “Yeah, wow, that’s a great shirt.” Smiling she gave David the thumbs up and he grinned.<br /><br />Next Richie came out to take his position. The crowd erupted even louder. Walking to the front of the stage he waved, looked down at Lindsay and winked. She grinned back.<br /><br />“Oh my God! Did you see that?” Julie gushed. “He winked at us!”<br /><br />The excitement in the room was palpable as everyone waited for Jon to take the stage. Lindsay was excited and more than a little nervous. Part of her hoped he was already in the zone, but deep down a part of her wanted him to acknowledge her in some small way.<br /><br />When he stepped forward and looked over the crowd she held her breath. At the last he looked down at her. And smiled. She smiled back and relaxed.<br /><br />The show was fantastic. Jon’s voice was in great form, the crowd was really into it and the guys seemed to be having a blast. The girls were all hoarse from screaming, their hands hurt from clapping and they wouldn’t have missed it for the world.<br /><br />While they were waiting for the encore to start a security guard walked over to them. “Miss Chandler?”<br /><br />“Yes?” she replied warily.<br /><br />“Here, these are for you and your friends.” At her confused look he added, “the band would like to invite you girls backstage after the show.”<br /><br />Taking the VIP passes from him she thanked him. The girls looked at her, then each other in silence for a moment, then screamed in unison.<br /><br />“Oh my God Lindsay, you are so wonderful, how did you do that?” Sheila asked.<br /><br />“I don’t know, maybe it’s just Jon’s way of saying thank you or something.” She shrugged. <em>Or something indeed. I’m going to kill him!<br /></em><br />When the encore was done and the band had taken their final bow and left the stage, the same security guard came over to them. “If you ladies will come with me please?” Following him down the hallway they flashed their passes at several guards. With each step Lindsay’s temper rose. Luckily the other three were too excited to notice.<br /><br />Stopping in front of a closed door the guard knocked, then opened it when bidden. Lindsay entered first. Taking a quick look around she pinned Jon with a look that could cut glass. He just smiled.<br /><br />Walking up to them he took her hand. “Hi, girls. I just wanted to say hi, and thank you again for all of your help finding my daughter.” <br /><br />“Well, we really didn’t do much, it was mostly Lindsay.” Sheila managed to get out.<br /><br />When they all turned to her Lindsay pasted on what she hoped was a convincing smile as she pulled her hand from his. Remembering her manners she introduced the girls to Jon, and caught herself just before she did the same with the rest of the band. As he introduced them to the guys, he kept trying to get next to her. Finally in a desperate attempt to keep the lid on her temper she moved to sit on a couch. If he singled her out now it would get ugly. Letting the conversation flow around her she rehearsed in her mind what she would say to him later.<br /><br />Sensing someone close she looked up to see Richie taking a seat beside her. “You’re pissed.” It wasn’t a question.<br /><br />“Rich, I am so far beyond pissed I don’t have a word for it.” She was almost trembling. <br /><br />“Well, sweetie, if you want to get through this without a big scene, you better try and relax and smile a bit. That Julie chick is already looking at you strangely.” He warned.<br /><br />She sighed. “Shit, that’s exactly what I wanted to avoid, she’s a huge gossip.”<br /><br />“We’ll help. Ignore Jon, talk to us, and we’ll get you through it.” He offered.<br /><br />She smiled the first real smile since she walked in the room. “Thanks.”<br /><br />True to his word Richie exerted himself to distract the girls and make her laugh. David and Tico soon joined in.<br /><br />After about half an hour at a signal from Richie, Lindsay rounded up the girls. “Well, I bet the guys have people waiting for them, and we have a bit of drive ahead of us, so we should get going.” Reluctantly the rest agreed. A round of “thank you”, “good night”,and “great show” and they were out the door.<br /><br />Halfway down the hallway, Lindsay realized that she had left her purse by the couch where she had been sitting. <em>Dammit!</em> Stopping the girls she explained what happened. “You guys go ahead I’ll only be a minute. I’ll meet you in the lobby.”<br /><br />Running back down the hallway she knocked on the door. When Tico opened it she smiled wryly. “Sorry Teek, but I forgot my purse.” He smiled and let her in. <br /><br />Rushing over to the couch she grabbed her purse and headed for the door. She had just reached it when his voice reached her. “I don’t know why you’re pissed.”<br /><br />Quietly closing the door she turned around and looked at him. He was leaning against a table with his arms crossed over his chest looking mutinous.<br /><br />“Sure you do Jon, you’re not stupid. But just so there’s no confusion let me spell it out for you. You know how I feel about anyone outside of this room knowing about our relationship. You know that there are reporters and cameras crawling all over this place. You know that I’m not ready to go public. You know all of this and yet you had to push. You had to scheme and manipulate to get me where you wanted me. And worse, you did it in front of the biggest gossip in New Jersey.” As she spoke her voice rose in volume until she was almost shouting. She was definitely shaking. “You completely disregarded my feelings!”<br /><br />“What about <strong>my</strong> feelings?!” He shouted back.<br /><br />“I understand your feelings and I’m trying.” She waved a hand around the room. “The fact that these guys even know I exist if proof that I’m trying!”<br /><br />“Trying to what Lindsay? I don’t understand why you’re so opposed to anyone knowing about us. What exactly is the problem?” He ran a hand through his hair in exasperation.<br /><br />“Jon, if you knew that heartbreaking pain was waiting for you wouldn’t you try to put it off for as long as possible?! I’m just not ready.” She was on the brink of tears.<br /><br />“Not ready for what? Dammit Lindsay talk to me! Not ready for what!”<br /><br />“I’m not ready to lose you!” There it was, her greatest fear exposed. Her stomach was churning and her heart was pounding.<br /><br />He looked confused. “What makes you think you’re going to lose me? And what does that have to do with acknowledging our relationship? You’re not making any sense!<br /><br />“Once we go public it’s only a matter of time before you’ll leave me, and it’s generally sooner rather than later.” She was desperately fighting for control.<br /><br />“Don’t be ridiculous.” He could sense her certainty and it added fear to his feelings of frustration. “Why would I leave you just because other people know that we’re together?” <br /><br />She just shook her head.<br /><br />“Lindsay!”<br /><br />“Because they all do!” she broke. “Every man I’ve ever cared about, or tried to, every man I let get even a little close to me has walked away as soon as anyone else found out he might be interested in me!” Spinning around she ran out the door, slamming it behind her, leaving the room in stunned silence.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 23<br /></span><br />Lindsay was thankful that the girls were so excited about meeting the band that they chattered all the way home and didn’t notice that she hadn’t said a word.<br /><br />Back in her apartment she got ready for bed, but couldn’t sleep. Pacing around she felt caged and knew she had to get out. Throwing on jeans and a sweater, she grabbed a jacket and headed for the beach. She was hoping that the sound of the waves would soothe her. She walked along the beach for hours trying to convince herself that it was going to be alright, that everything would work out. When dawn broke she quit lying to herself, sat down just beyond the water’s reach curled her knees up to her chest, rested her head on her knees and wept. She cried for everything she’d had and lost. She cried for the pain and emptiness inside her that she knew would always be there. Mostly, she cried for her lost hope of ever having someone to share her life with. <em>What’s wrong with me?</em> She asked herself for the thousandth time. And for the thousandth time her only answer was silence.<br /><br />She continued to sit there long after her tears had stopped. A chill wind had picked up, but she didn’t feel it. She was numb. She didn’t hear him walk up behind her. She barely felt the blanket he wrapped around her.<br /><br />“Come on, it’s cold out here. Let’s get you home.” Bending he picked her up and carried her to the car.<br /><br />At her apartment he lit the fire, made her a hot toddy and cradled her on his lap, slowly stroking her from her crown to her hips. Finally she shivered and he knew she was coming back to awareness.<br /><br />“Are you warm enough?” he asked.<br /><br />She nodded, but huddled closer to him. He squeezed her reassuringly. <br /><br />“Are you ready to talk?”<br /><br />“Do I have to?” She whispered.<br /><br />“I’d like to.” He answered.<br /><br />Closing her eyes she bowed her head and gave in. “What do you want to know?”<br /><br />“Everything. Start at the beginning.” His voice was gentle, but determined.<br /><br />She sighed. “I guess it started in University - in high school we went out more as a group than in couples. Anyway, my first year, I met Brad. At first we were just friends, then it grew to be something more, except every time someone suggested or teased that we were a couple he couldn’t back away fast enough. When attention went elsewhere he came back. For two and a half years we played ‘come here, go away’. It finally ended with him proposing to someone else with me sitting at the table. She knew what had been going on and immediately turned to me with this big smile on her face. I should say I thought it had ended. It wasn’t very long before he was back knocking on my door. She worked days and he worked afternoons, so after she went to bed he would come see me, and we would drive around while he told me how unhappy he was with her. His family talked to me about what a bitch she was and why didn’t I do something? I told him if he was so unhappy to break it off. I told him what his family had been saying to me. He married her.”<br /><br />She took a sip of her toddy and continued, her voice emotionless. “Next was Greg who I worked with at my first job. He was cute, smart, funny and seemed to really enjoy my company. After Brad I was afraid to trust the signals I thought I was getting, so I asked another female co-worker what she thought. She watched for a while and then confirmed my reading. An off hand comment was made, and a week later he was dating someone else.”<br /><br />Another sip, another story. “Then it was Eddie. I worked with him for two summers in a traveling carnival. I worked in the office, he worked the rides. He was different than the men I was used to. High school education, blue collar all the way, and he was gorgeous. He looked like Brad Pitt in Legends of the Fall. I used to love to sit and brush his hair. The second summer we became…involved. Everything was going great until the bosses caught wind of it. They weren’t upset, in fact they thought it was great. Two weeks later I heard rumours of him sleeping with one of the girls who worked in a game. When I confronted him he admitted it and said he wasn’t sorry.”<br /><br />“Honey....” He began, but she stopped him.<br /><br />“I’m not done yet. Finally there was Bill. This was about three and a half years ago. He worked in a different department than I did, but we had similar positions and traveled in the same circles. By now I was ignoring any kind of signs or signals. It was a couple of my friends who finally convinced me to give it a try, that he treated me differently than he did anyone else and that they were sure he was interested. One night there was a big office party and I decided to let him know I was interested too. He seemed pleased. Several weeks later I heard he was moving in with a girl from another department. It turns out that he was spending time with me, then leaving and going to her place. When someone mentioned to him that he’d seen us together he moved in with her.”<br /><br />Taking another sip she finally looked at him. “Now do you understand? Do you understand why I say that going public will kill our relationship? For some reason men don’t want to be associated with me in front of other people. I am every man’s friend and no man’s girlfriend. I don’t know why, I only know that I’ve learned the hard way that it’s true. That the only relationship I can sustain is a secret one. I’m not fit for public consumption.”<br /><br />“And you think that I’ll be the same.” It wasn’t a question.<br /><br />“I’m <strong>afraid</strong> that the same thing will happen with you. Deep down I’ve always figured it was because I wasn’t pretty enough, sexy enough. I was too plain for men to want to be seen with. And here you are…a gorgeous rock star who could have any woman in the world – literally. Why would you want to be with me? Photographers fight to take your picture and starlets and models fight to be in them with you. How can I compete with that?” She shook her head. “I can’t. If pictures of us appeared in the tabloids people would wonder what you were thinking. You could do so much better.” She let out a ragged breath.<br /><br />Jon rocked her back and forth in his arms for a few minutes, then framed her face with his hands and locked his gaze with hers.<br /><br />“Lindsay, look at me. I want you to listen to me very carefully. I don’t know what was going on in the minds of those guys. Maybe it was immaturity, maybe they just weren’t ready, maybe they were afraid of what you made them feel, or maybe they knew that you could do so much better than them. I don’t know. I do know that it had nothing to do with you not being pretty enough or sexy enough! You are more beautiful to me than I have words to express, and as for sexy! Every time I look at you I want to haul you off to bed. And once we’re there, every time is better than the last and leaves me yearning for the next time. As for how you can compete with starlets and models, you don’t have to. I left that phase of my life behind a long time ago. I don’t want them, I want you. If people want to know what I’m thinking and why I want to be with you I’d be more than happy to tell them. Why do I want to be with you? Because you’re bright, beautiful, caring, sensitive, you have a great sense of humour and put other people’s feelings before your own. You’re understanding and supportive and giving enough to let me be me and do what I feel I need to do and what makes me happy, yet strong enough to tell me to get stuffed when I push too hard or I need to be brought back to earth. You’re considerate and loving to my children. You greet my friends with open arms, warmth and affection. You are everything I’ve ever wanted and needed.”<br /><br />He took a deep breath and searched her eyes. “In short Lindsay, I want to be with you because you make me happy…because I love you.”<br /><br />She searched his eyes afraid to believe, afraid to hope, but wanting to with all her being.<br /><br />When she tried to speak, he put a finger against her lips and shook his head. “No don’t say anything. Just give me a chance to prove it to you.”<br /><br />Leaning forward he replaced his finger with his lips. Softly, gently he teased her, brushing her mouth lightly with his. Lacing her fingers in his hair she tried to pull him closer but he resisted. Hearing her growl of frustration he chuckled and gave her what she wanted. Swooping down he captured her mouth completely. When she opened for him he thrust his tongue deep, explored then lured her to return the favour. When she obliged he sucked hard on her tongue then bit down gently. Groaning he stood with her in his arms and carried her into the bedroom.<br /><br />Laying her gently on the bed he joined her and began removing her clothes. When he had her naked he caressed her whole body reverently almost worshipping, telling with his hands how beautiful her found her. Turning her on her stomach he swept her long hair aside and slowly massaged her neck and shoulders easing the tension that had been there for too long. Kneading down her arm he took each finger in turn in his mouth, nibbling and sucking gently. Then he repeated the procedure on her other arm.<br /><br />Spanning her back with his hands he rubbed in small circles, sensitizing her skin and relaxing her at the same time. As she melted beneath him he ran the tip of his tongue down the furrow of her spine. Reaching her buttocks he cupped both cheeks and kneaded firmly. She moaned in response.<br /><br />Smiling he circled a thigh with both hand and massaged down to her toes. Then he started on the other leg. Then he turned her over.<br /><br />Starting just below her ear he suck-kissed his way down to her breasts leaving loving marks of his passion on her skin. Cupping her breasts he raised the hard peaks towards his mouth. Biting them gently he listened to her cries and pleas for release. Smiling he laved her nipples with his tongue, then suckled them strongly. She screamed and arched her back off the bed. Releasing her he moved down, massaging, kissing and licking her abdomen until he reached his goal.<br /><br />Spreading her legs he traced her soft flesh with gentle fingertips until she writhed beneath him and demanded more. Spreading the soft folds he slowly licked a path up and down until she was running wet and gasping for breath. Taking her most sensitive nub of flesh between his teeth he sucked, first softly, then harder until she screamed and the pulsations of her climax caused her whole body to shake.<br /><br />Still panting she realized it wasn’t enough – and he was still dressed. Pushing him onto his back she quickly straddled him and set about evening the score. Leaning forward she traced the tip of her tongue around the shell of his ear before dipping it down in, enjoying the shiver that racked him. Moving to his mouth she kissed him deeply while she began to slowly unfasten his shirt – one button at a time. When she reached the last one she yanked the tails out of his waistband and spread the halves wide baring his chest for her pleasure. Spreading her hands wide she placed them over his pecs and stroked down to his waist reveling in the firm muscle she found. One index finger teased the nailhead of his nipple circling it until it stood up for her. After treating its mate to the same torture she bent over and took one into her mouth sucking hard and laving it with her tongue. Hearing his ravaged moan she moved down to his abdomen tracing his ribs and six pack with first her fingers, then her tongue. Lifting his hand she sucked his index finger into her mouth and grazed the sensitive sides with her teeth while she unbuttoned his sleeve. Repeating the gesture on his other arm, she then pushed the shirt off his shoulders. She watched the play of his abs as he raised up to remove the shirt entirely.<br /><br />Leaving him gasping for breath she slid down to remove the rest of his clothing. Straddling his hips once again she gazed down at her prize. Reaching out she traced a finger up its hard length then gently circled the tip. Looking up at the strangled sound he made she saw the increasing rise and fall of his chest as he fought to take a deep breath, the sweat gathering on his upper lip and the blaze of his blue eyes under lowered lids.<br /><br />Smiling almost evilly she looked down again, and lowered her head. Taking him in her mouth she alternated between sucking and licking with the occasional nibble thrown in. Unable to hold back his moans he arched involuntarily, shuddered and pleaded with her to stop. She didn’t. When he had taken all he could, he grasped her head with both hands and gently pulled her away. In an impressive display of coordinated movement he sat up, caught her in his arms, flipped her on her back, and spreading her legs entered her in a controlled rush. Then he held still.<br /><br />Panting, he nibbled on her lips as he savoured the feel of her intimate grip. Then she tightened – everywhere and he gasped and almost lost control. Smiling she wrapped her arms and legs around him and urged him to show her heaven again….and he did, moving slowly at first then faster, harder, deeper until they reached the peak together and collapsed.<br /><br />Moving off her, still panting he pulled her close. Pressing a kiss to her forehead he urged her: “Sleep honey, I promise I’ll still be here when you wake up.”<br /><br />Smiling sleepily she placed her palm over his heart and did as he suggested.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 24<br /></span><br />Lindsay woke to find Jon sitting beside her on the bed reading through some papers. Sensing her gaze he looked at her, smiled, leaned over and gave her a deep kiss.<br /><br />“Feeling better?” he smoothed the hair back from her face.<br /><br />Caressing his cheek with her hand she answered honestly. “You make me feel good. But I’m still scared to death.”<br /><br />Catching her hand he planted a kiss in her palm. “But willing to give us a chance?”<br /><br />Biting her lower lip she frowned slightly, but nodded. “Just please be patient with me and don’t get upset if I get too clingy.”<br /><br />“Honey, you can cling to me all you want, anytime, anywhere.” He grinned. She grinned back.<br /><br />Looking at his watch he slapped her playfully on the butt. “Get dressed lazy bones. We’ve got a reservation, and if you don’t cover that body we’re going to miss it.”<br /><br />“Reservation where?” She tried to calm her suddenly racing pulse.<br /><br />“Elements. Don’t worry, no paparazzi, just a nice dinner at my brother’s place. An easy first step.”<br /><br /><br />In the car, he told her about his brother Matt and Desiree, how Matt got the business started, amusing stories from their childhood in an attempt to help her relax. While she appreciated the effort, and it helped for a bit, when they pulled into the parking lot her stomach was in knots and her heart was pounding so hard she thought for sure it was going to jump right out of her chest. <em>Relax idiot. This isn’t the hard part. That comes tomorrow.</em> Watching Jon come around to open her door she took a deep breath, then another getting herself under control before taking the hand he offered to help her out of the car. Standing she waited while he shut the door and turned to her. Lacing their hands together tightly he leaned down and kissed her lightly. “Ready?” When she blew out a breath and nodded he raised their joined hands. “Hang on as hard as you need to. I won’t let go.” He promised. She smiled and nodded again and they headed inside.<br /><br />Matt met them at the door. “Hey bro, nice to see you. So what’s this big surprise?” Seeing Lindsay he raised a questioning brow at Jon, when Jon smiled he took a closer look at her. She held her breath. “Well, well, who do we have here?”<br /><br />“Lindsay, I’d like you to meet my brother Matt. Matt, this is Lindsay Chandler…my girlfriend.” Jon introduced them.<br /><br />“Girlfriend! Wow, that is a surprise! Wait a minute,… Lindsay…..are you the one who found Stephanie?” Lindsay nodded. “Good job!” He beamed at her approvingly and hugged her. “Come on your table’s ready. I should warn you. There’s a group of women up near the front who I think are fans. They’ve been pretty calm, but they just started their fourth bottle of wine, so anything’s possible.”<br /><br />As they followed Matt through the room there was a noticeable buzz as people recognized Jon. Keeping her eyes straight ahead she tightened her grip on Jon’s hand. He squeezed hers reassuringly. <br /><br />Reaching the table she was pleasantly surprised to find Richie, David, Tico and Hugh already there. Remembering what happened the last time she saw them she was a little embarrassed, but they quickly put her at ease.<br /><br />Dinner was a hilarious affair with the guys relating humorous stories of their adventures and teasing each other mercilessly. Throughout it all Jon was very attentive to Lindsay, touching her in little ways, his arm always either on the back of her chair playing with her hair or around her shoulders caressing her arm.<br /><br />“So have you ever actually been arrested?” She asked<br /><br />“No, but we came awful close that time in London.” David answered. “Who would have thought playing a little music in a hotel room and opening the windows would have been such a big deal?” He looked so innocent she laughed out loud.<br /><br />“Incoming.” Tico murmured.<br /><br />Glancing up Lindsay saw the group of women that Matt had warned them about heading towards their table.<br /><br />“Hi, we’re really sorry to bother you, but could we have your autographs?” The leader requested, holding out paper and pen.<br /><br />“Sure.” Richie answered reaching out for the paper.<br /><br />“We’re all really huge fans. We were at the show last night and you guys were fantastic.” Another one gushed.<br /><br />“Jon, I was really sorry to hear about your break up. It must be really hard on you.” This from a very improbably endowed blonde who exuded sex, and was bending over so far to show her wares that she was almost lying on the table.<br /><br />“Mmmhmmm.” Was Jon’s only response, but Lindsay could see the muscle in his jaw twitch.<br /><br />“Could we possibly trouble you for a picture too?”<br /><br />Jon hesitated and glanced at Lindsay. She nodded slightly and squeezed his thigh where her hand had been resting.<br /><br />“Ok, a quick one.” He answered.<br /><br />“Would you be a dear?” The blonde asked Lindsay, motioning with her camera.<br /><br />“Sure, no problem.” Lindsay answered and rose to come around the table.<br /><br />The blonde immediately took her place and draped herself over Jon’s arm. Now it was Lindsay’s jaw’s turn to twitch. The other women spread out among the guys. Lindsay snapped two pictures and lowered the camera. And waited. And waited. She walked around the table and handed the camera back to the blonde. And waited.<br /><br />“Ok girls, that’s it thanks. Glad you liked the show. Thanks for your support.” Jon ended the visit…or tried to. The other women all gathered up their belongings and prepared to leave. The blonde didn’t move.<br /><br />After a few more minutes, unwilling to show weakness Lindsay cleared her throat softly. The blonde looked at her questionly. “I’d like to finish my dessert.” Lindsay said gesturing towards the bowl of fruit sitting in front of her place at the table.<br /><br />“Yeah, in a minute sweetie, I’m talking to Jon. Besides, it looks like it wouldn’t hurt you to skip a few desserts.”<br /><br />“Hey” Hugh jumped to Lindsay’s defense. “That was rude.” The blonde just shrugged.<br /><br />Smiling her thanks to Hugh, and bolstered by his support, Lindsay turned to the blonde. “At least what I have is made by God and a personal trainer, not some inept plastic surgeon…..sweetie.” The guys laughed. The blonde turned an unbecoming shade of red.<br /><br />“Well, if you think what you’ve got is going to keep a man like Jon, you’re in for a big shock.” She blustered.<br /><br />Jon looked at her in disbelief. “Since you don’t know me or what I like, maybe you should consider that <strong>she’s</strong> with me at my request. <strong>You’re </strong>sitting here at my sufferance. And I’m done suffering.” Turning to her friends he smiled. “It was nice to meet you ladies, but we’d like to continue with our evening now please….and take your friend here with you.”<br /><br />Mortified, the others apologized, grabbed the blonde and made a beeline back to their table.<br /><br />“Well, I can see that outings with you guys will never be boring.” Lindsay quipped as she sat back down.<br /><br />Jon put his arm around her shoulders, hugged her close and gave her a brief kiss. Matt came rushing over. “Is everything ok? Lindsay are you alright?” he asked obviously concerned.<br /><br />“Yes Matt, I’m fine thanks.” She looked at Jon. “So…how often does something like that happen?”<br /><br />He grinned “Feeling feisty are you?”<br /><br />She was actually. Winning in this arena was a heady feeling - and a new one for her. “Just trying to figure out if it’s safe to let you go out on your own.”<br /><br />“Want to be my bodyguard?”<br /><br />“Hey, you’ve been telling me all day that I’ve got exclusive rights to it. I protect what’s mine.”<br /><br />They all laughed.<br /><br />“I like her.” Matt told Jon.<br /><br />“So do I.” Jon smiled at her, the warmth in his eyes causing an answering warmth deep in her core.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2233992774788831133.post-128626485053838042008-11-04T17:15:00.000-08:002008-11-04T17:26:26.624-08:00Chapter 19With album preparation in full swing Richie was back in town and Lindsay saw even less of Jon. Sometimes it was days at a time. She didn’t complain, but she missed him. Jon was feeling the strain too. One afternoon Lindsay was sitting in her office reading an article on new evidence collection techniques when her phone rang.<br /><br />“Hello.”<br /><br />“Hi honey, how are you?” His voice could still send shivers down her spine.<br /><br />“I’m Ok, how are you doing?”<br /><br />He sighed. “Not worth a damn at the moment. I’m tired, we’ve both got writer’s block, we’re snapping at each other……and I miss you.” The frustration was clear in his voice.<br /><br />She smiled. “I miss you too. And maybe you two need to take a break.”<br /><br />“That’s just what I was thinking.” There was a long pause. “Why don’t you come out to the house for dinner tonight?” There was an even longer pause. “Come on Lindsay, please?”<br /><br />Lindsay sighed. <em>It’s now or never Linds. It’s just Richie, it’s not the whole world. If you don’t take the chance you’ll end up alone for the rest of your life. Who will you ever find worth taking the risk as much as Jon? Just take it one step at time, but take that first step.<br /></em><br />“It’s just Richie right? No outsiders?” Lindsay’s stomach was churning and her heart was pounding.<br /><br />“It’ll just be the three of us.” He was almost afraid to hope that he had finally broken through.<br /><br />Expelling a deep breath Lindsay grabbed her courage with both hands. “Ok, I’ll come out after work.”<br /><br />Pulling up in front of the house, Lindsay sat frozen for long minutes with her heart in her throat. Jon must have worried that she’d back out because he suddenly appeared at her car door. Opening it he took her hand and helped her out. <br /><br />Tilting her face up with his hand he kissed her gently. Lacing their fingers tightly together he gazed down at her. “Ready?” When she nodded he headed for the house towing her gently behind him.<br /><br />They found Richie in the den. Rising at their entrance he came forward to meet them.<br /><br />“Lindsay Chandler, meet Richie Sambora, Rich this is Lindsay.” Even Lindsay could hear the note of pride in Jon’s voice.<br /><br />“Hi, Richie, it’s nice…” She never got a chance to finish. She had been holding out her hand, but found her self enveloped by his arms and lifted clear off the floor.<br /><br />When he set her down again, she backed up a few steps and eyed him warily. Jon laughed, stood behind her and wrapped her protectively in his arms. Richie just grinned.<br /><br />“Dare I ask what that was all about or do you always greet women like that?” she asked him.<br /><br />“Nope, just the special ones who bring the life back to my best friend.” Richie answered with feeling.<br /><br />“Good, because there isn’t enough security guards in the world to protect you from the women.” Lindsay retorted. Both men laughed.<br /><br />Dinner was a laughter filled affair with Richie trying to put Lindsay at ease by telling her stories of some of their adventures.<br /><br />“So we’re on stage in Italy, and Captain Kidd’s about to fly. Jon runs out to the end of the catwalk and jumps. Well, the cable only lifts him about a foot, but moves him about six feet out from the catwalk so he can’t get back to it. He’s got nothing to stand on and he’s hanging there just above the crowd’s head. Of course this area of the crowd is all female. Talk about reach out and touch! I thought they were going to pull him right off the cable! We’re all yelling at the crew, but we’d had to hire locals to help and they didn’t speak English, and we didn’t speak Italian. The hand signals were flying. It took ten minutes to get them to understand and pull Jon back to the stage. By then his shirt was gone and his pants were in shreds. And all the while Doc’s yelling ‘what the fuck do you mean you don’t speak Italian, your name’s Bongiovi for Christ’s sake!’”<br /><br />“I’m surprised I had any hair left on my head.” Jon rubbed his scalp in remembrance. “I’m sure I lost big chunks.”<br /><br />Lindsay was laughing so hard she had tears running down her face. “Good thing you had lots of it.”<br /><br />Back in the den over a few drinks Richie tried to draw Lindsay out. “So what made you decide to become a CSI?”<br /><br />“Well, my degree was in science, but I’d never found a specific area that really appealed to me. I also love puzzles and mysteries. Then when the TV shows came out I realized there was an area that combined the two and I was fascinated. It all just seemed to fit.” She paused. “I was at a point in my life where I needed to make a change, so I went back to school, and here I am.” Taking a sip of her drink she missed the look that passed between the men.<br /><br />“For which we are all very thankful.” Jon kissed her temple.<br /><br />“So how’s the album coming?” She smoothly changed the subject.<br /><br />That set them off on discussions of various songs and what was going well and what wasn’t.<br /><br />“We’ve got that benefit concert at the Borgata next month. I’d like to have a couple of new songs ready to try out.” Jon said.<br /><br />“So it’s back to the studio tomorrow?” Lindsay asked.<br /><br />“Yeah, hopefully a good night’s sleep will break the writer’s block” Richie yawned.<br /><br />“Speaking of sleep, I’m sorry guys, but I’m beat.” Lindsay apologized.<br /><br />“Up the stairs, second door on the right. You go ahead, I’ll be up soon.” Jon told her.<br /><br />Lindsay stared at him for a minute until his directions clicked in. Shooting a glance at Richie she frowned at Jon. He just smiled innocently. “What?”<br /><br />She just shook her head at him and turned to Richie. “Good night Richie.”<br /><br />“Good night Lindsay, see you later.”<br /><br />Upstairs, she paced the huge bedroom waiting for Jon. When he entered the room and searched for her he was surprised to see her still dressed.<br /><br />“I thought you were tired.”<br /><br />“I am. I’m just not sure I’m comfortable with this.”<br /><br />“With what? What difference does it make whether it’s your place or mine?”<br /><br />“It’s just that I’ve only been in this house a few times, and this is the first time I’ve ever been in this room. It just feels….strange.” She glanced at the king size bed.<br /><br />“Don’t worry it’s a new bed.” He said dryly. She made a face at him, turned and walked out onto the balcony. He followed her out.<br /><br />“This is really nice.” She commented looking at the view. “I always wanted a balcony off my bedroom.”<br /><br />Standing behind her he ran his hands up and down her arms. “Thank you for coming tonight. It really meant a lot to me. I really want you and Richie to become friends.”<br /><br />She leaned back against him. “He’s quite the character. He seems to be doing well.”<br /><br />“Yeah, he’s really coming along.”<br /><br />Sliding his hands around her waist he nuzzled her neck. “So are you going to stay here tonight?”<br /><br />“Mmmm, but I don’t have a nightgown here.”<br /><br />“Don’t worry, I’ll keep you warm.”<br /><br />She chuckled then gasped as his hands slid up under her sweater and cupped her breasts.<br /><br />“Lift your arms.” He whispered. When she obeyed he pushed her sweater up and off.<br /><br />“Jon, we’re outside.” She tried to cover herself as her bra followed her sweater.<br /><br />“It’s ok, we’re at the back of the house. No one can see.” He assured her.<br /><br />“But Richie…”<br /><br />“Is sleeping on the other side of the house. Relax it’s just us.” <br /><br />Pushing her hands away he reclaimed her breasts, kneading firmly. Releasing her briefly he pulled his shirt over his head and sent it sailing after her sweater. Pressing his chest against her back he slid one arm over her midriff to hold her to him. Outlining her ear with his tongue his other hand slowly opened her pants and slid inside. At the same time that his tongue dipped into her ear his finger dipped into her warmth. When her knees wanted to buckle he supported her. Stepping forward he urged her to hold on to the balcony railing. Kissing a path down her spine he knelt behind her to ease the rest of her clothes off. Rising he kicked off his own and pressed up against her back again. Nudging her legs apart he caressed her most sensitive flesh with his, reveling in her cries of pleasure. Bending over her he cupped her breasts again pinching and tugging her hard nipples gently. As she whimpered in need he entered her slowly until he was buried to the hilt. They both groaned at the sensations pulsing through them. When he started to move she gripped the rail tighter and pushed back against him. Despite the cool air their bodies were covered with a fine mist of sweat as they continued to move against each other. Gasping for breath they strained for the peak, and reaching it together, they collapsed onto the floor of the balcony. <br /><br />Catching his breath, Jon rose, picked Lindsay up, carried her inside and laid her on the big bed. Sliding in beside her he pulled her close against him and succumbed to sleep.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#993399;">Chapter 20</span><br /><br />Over the next few weeks Lindsay spent a fair amount of time at the estate. She was becoming more and more comfortable around Richie although she still watched him closely for any sign of disapproval. So far she hadn’t seen any and was beginning to believe that Jon was right. Anyone who made him happy would be alright with the rest of the band. Even someone like her.<br /><br />She had also discovered that Richie loved chocolate chip cookies. She decided to make some one day for a treat. She was now making quadruple batches every 3 days, and their sheet music looked like it came from Willy Wonka’s!<br /><br />The only tense time came over a discussion of the Borgata event. The three of them were having dinner when Richie brought it up.<br /><br />“Lindsay are you coming to the Borgata?”<br /><br />“Yes, and that reminds me. The girls at the lab asked me if I knew anyone who could get us better seats.” She batted her eyelashes at Jon. Richie laughed.<br /><br />“Yeah I guess, how many?” he responded shaking his head at her antics.<br /><br />“Four. Thanks.” She blew him a kiss across the table.<br /><br />“Wait a minute, aren’t you coming with us?” Richie asked.<br /><br />“No, I’m going with the girls.” She answered without looking at Jon and waited for the explosion.<br /><br />“Dammit Lindsay!” He started.<br /><br />“Jon, no. We’ve been over this a hundred times. You know how I feel. This is your first gig since the divorce. The media is still hounding Richie, watching every move he makes, and it’s been months. I’m not ready to be part of the fishbowl! Not yet. Plus, I want to enjoy the show as just another face in the crowd, without worrying about people watching me and judging my dance moves.” <em>Among other things.</em> “Besides, once you get on stage, I could be standing right beside you and you wouldn’t know it.” She dared him to deny it. He couldn’t.<br /><br />“Now, when are David, Tico, and Hugh arriving to start rehearsals?” She signaled the end of the discussion.<br /><br />Not wanting to let it go, it took a few minutes before Jon answered. “Day after tomorrow.”<br /><br />“Are they all staying here?”<br /><br />“Yes.” <br /><br />“I’ll speak to Melanie about making sure rooms are ready for them.” Lindsay offered.<br /><br />“You’d better make more cookies.” Richie advised. They all laughed.<br /><br />“Any other requests? Hey, does Tico know how to make Mojitos?” Her mouth watered at the thought.<br /><br />“You like those?” Richie asked.<br /><br />She nodded. “I fell in love with them in Cuba and haven’t been able to find a decent one since.”<br /><br />“Tico’s going to love you.” Richie predicted.<br /><br />Turning to Jon, Lindsay found him staring at her. In response to the questioning brow she raised at him he nodded. He understood her message. She was willing to meet the rest of the band. Step two.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#993399;">Chapter 21</span><br /><br />The next day when her phone rang Lindsay glance at the call display and smiled.<br /><br />“What’s wrong? You can’t be out of cookies already!”<br /><br />“No, but they’re getting low.” Richie laughed. “Are you coming here this afternoon? We need your opinion on something.”<br /><br />“Well, that sounds interesting, I’ll be over in a bit.”<br /><br />“Ok, thanks.”<br /><br />Arriving at the house she entered the front door. “Jon? Richie?” She called.<br /><br />“We’re upstairs honey.” Jon called back.<br /><br />Running up the stairs she started searching through rooms until she found them. Looking around the room she was stunned. It was the biggest walk-in closet she’d ever seen.<br /><br />“Wow!” She exclaimed softly. “You’ve got more clothes in here than most stores!”<br /><br />“Stage clothes.” Jon informed her. Smiling at her reaction he let her roam around looking through everything.<br /><br />Finally, she turned to the men. “So what did you need me for?”<br /><br />Jon rolled his eyes. “Richie doesn’t like the clothes I had picked out for the Borgata.”<br /><br />“They’re boring and not cool man.” Richie insisted.<br /><br />“And you want a female’s opinion.” Lindsay guessed, trying not to laugh. “Ok, show me.”<br /><br />When Jon brought out the first shirt she struggled not to show her reaction.<br /><br />“Well?” Jon asked.<br /><br />“Umm, it’s nice.” She began.<br /><br />“Yeah, if you’re attending the concert, not if you’re performing it.” Richie interrupted.<br /><br />Looking at Jon apologetically she admitted. “Sorry honey, but he’s right.”<br /><br />Jon threw up his hands. “You pick something out then.”<br /><br />“Really?” She asked. He nodded. “Ok, so you need what, three shirts and two pairs of pants?” <br /><br />He nodded again and the two men sat back and watched her go through Jon’s wardrobe. She felt like a kid let loose in a candy shop. Just when she thought she had made her decision she’d see something else that she needed to consider. It took almost half an hour before she was satisfied. <em>That ought to provide some good gutter pics!</em> Laying out her choices she waited for their reaction.<br /><br />“Now, that is a rock star’s outfit.” Richie beamed at her approvingly.<br /><br />Even Jon had to agree that she’d done well. “I’m going to sic her on you next.” He threatened Richie.<br /><br />“Do you pick out your own clothes Rich?” she asked.<br /><br />“Yeah, pretty much.” He answered.<br /><br />“Then he doesn’t need my help. He does very well on his own.” Lindsay stated. “Now David, on the other hand needs some help. Actually, he needs a lot of help.”<br /><br />“I heard that.” Came a voice from the doorway.<br /><br />Jon saw Lindsay stiffen and moved to stand beside her for support.<br /><br />“Hey man, you’re early.” Jon observed.<br /><br />“Yeah I was at loose ends and thought I’d come enhance your lives with my presence. And what do I find when I arrive? My fashion sense being slandered!”<br /><br />“Actually I think it was determined that you have no fashion sense.” Richie quipped.<br /><br />Laughing, Jon urged Lindsay forward with an arm around her waist.<br /><br />“Lindsay I’d like you to meet David Rashbaum. David this is Lindsay Chandler…my girlfriend.”<br /><br />“Really?” David grinned and, ignoring the hand she held out swept her up in a big hug. “You’ve been holding out on us man.”<br /><br />Lindsay watched David’s reaction very carefully. All she saw was genuine happiness for his friend. She exhaled.<br /><br /><br />Three days later she found herself sitting around the dinner table with all the members of Bon Jovi. Letting the conversation flow around her she looked around letting her gaze pause on each person, trying to convince herself that all of this was real. David and Richie were engaged in a battle of one upmanship to see who could make her laugh the most. Tico saluted her with his Mojito and smiled. She raised her glass in return. While quieter than the other two, when he spoke everyone listened. If Tico was quiet, Hugh was mute. Other than saying hello when she met him, he hadn’t said two words to her or anyone else within her hearing either.<br /><br />Leaning over to Jon she murmured. “Does he ever speak?”<br /><br />Having been watching her look at everyone he knew who she was referring to. “Yeah, he just takes awhile to warm up. He just seems quiet in comparison to Laurel and Hardy over there.”<br /><br />“So how about it Linds?” David asked.<br /><br />“Sorry I missed that. How about what?” she replied warily.<br /><br />“How about you taking David shopping for stage clothes?” Richie repeated for her.<br /><br />“Gee guys, I don’t know. I haven’t been around here long enough to know the stores.” She was surprised and a little bit intrigued by the request.<br /><br />“Oh he knows which stores to go to,” Richie assured her, “he just doesn’t know what looks good.” They all laughed.<br /><br />“Ok, I’ll check my work load and see what we can arrange.” She promised.<br /><br />Later that night, standing on the balcony, enjoying the moonlight Jon asked her, “What were you thinking when you were looking around the table?”<br /><br />Leaning back against him, she answered honestly. “I was trying to convince myself that all of this was real. If anyone had told me even six months ago that I would personally meet Bon Jovi, let alone have dinner with them, and swap fashion tips, I would have told them it would only be in my dreams.”<br /><br />Turning in his arms she ran her fingers through his hair, then framed his face with her hands. “And you……the reality of you is beyond anything I’ve ever dreamed.” <em>And the thought of losing you scares the hell out of me.<br /></em><br />Smiling he kissed her gently and hugged her close. “I know the feeling.”Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2233992774788831133.post-19022298867689705042008-11-04T13:42:00.000-08:002008-11-04T14:13:34.116-08:00Chapter 16The next day Lindsay was trying hard to focus on the reports in front of her instead of the discussion of the night before. Replaying everything in her mind she decided she didn’t regret a word she’d said. She did however, regret the effect they’d had on Jon. She knew he was confused and frustrated with her stand, but she didn’t see what else she could do. <em>I’m sorry Jon, but this is the way it has to be.<br /></em><br />She looked up at the knock at her door, stared, and bowed her head in acceptance. Raising her head again she asked. “So, how does this work exactly? He loses an argument, doesn’t get his way so he calls in reinforcements?”<br /><br />Laughing Carol Bongiovi stepped forward and took the chair on the other side of the desk. “Relax, I happen to agree with you on this one – and I told Jon that. I’m here because I wanted to meet the woman who has the understanding and compassion to put the needs of four children before her own, the strength to fight for what she believes is right, and the courage to stand up to my sometimes overbearing eldest son.”<br /><br />She paused. “I know Jon has been very unhappy for a long time, and it was killing me to be unable to help him. That’s why I was so happy when he told be he’d met someone. It warmed my heart to see the sparkle back in his eyes. But I was also afraid that you would be some fawning fan that just wanted her moment in the limelight and to be able to say that she’d slept with Jon Bon Jovi. That’s not what he needs, and not what I want for him. I am so relieved that he picked someone who will care for him and the children, support him when he needs it but won’t be a door mat.”<br /><br />She gazed at Lindsay searchingly for a long moment before, nodding decisively, she rose from her chair. “Yes, I think you will be good for him. Now, when the dust settles a little and the children are ready, we’ll have another family dinner – the <strong>whole</strong> family - and you will be expected to be there. In the meantime, I would like the two of us to have lunch sometime soon and get to know each other.”<br /><br />Lindsay hesitated, then rose and came around the desk. “I’d like that.”<br /><br />Carol hugged her briefly. “I’ll call you soon.”<br /><br />Lindsay stood staring at the empty doorway a long time after Carol left. <em>I think I could really like her.</em> Rather than encouraging her, the thought just increased the depth of pain she would feel later, when this whole incredible episode of her life was over. <br /><br /><br />The next couple of days were very tense for Lindsay. Jon was barely speaking to her and was spending most of his time at his own house. He said it was because he needed to be in the studio, but she was afraid that that was just an excuse. <em>Nice going Lindsay, you finally did it. You finally pushed back so hard you pushed him away.</em> <br /><br />“Hey Lindsay are you there?” Brian asked. They were in the car on the way to a crime scene.<br /><br />“Sorry, I guess I was daydreaming.” She apologized.<br /><br />“Well, I hope it was a good dream, because this scene sounds like the stuff of nightmares.”<br /><br />“What do we know?” she asked all business again.<br /><br />“Husband, wife three kids aged 8, 5 and 3. All dead. Possible murder suicide.” Brian answered grimly.<br /><br />“The husband?”<br /><br />“No, the wife.”<br /><br />“Jesus.”<br /><br />Brian was right about it being a nightmare scene. The entire house was covered in blood. It looked like something out of a slasher movie. Brian tried to shield her from the worst of it, but she insisted that she could deal with it. Following a trail of blood she came upon the three year old. Swallowing heavily she ran out of the house before she disgraced herself and contaminated the evidence. Brian came out to check on her.<br /><br />“Are you ok?” He asked gently.<br /><br />“My God Brian, that child was tortured!” Her voice shook.<br /><br />“I know. They all were. I’ve never seen anything like it. The rage that it must have taken to do that to your own children!” He shook his head in bewilderment.<br /><br />They were there for hours collecting evidence. When they got back to the lab Brian offered. “After you log this stuff in why don’t you head home. The DNA will take awhile to process anyway and we can start piecing this all together in the morning.”<br /><br />“Are you sure?”<br /><br />“Yes, I think we’ve both had about all we can take tonight. Speaking of which I don’t think you should be driving. I can give you a ride home.”<br /><br />“Don’t be silly, I’m fine. I’m perfectly capable of driving myself home.” She wasn’t entirely sure about that, but she refused to be a ‘weak female’.<br /><br />“Listen Lindsay, I know that you are a very capable CSI, but you’re still new at this and that crime scene was enough to make even the most hardened coroner toss his cookies. I would expect you to be a little shaky after that. Hell, I am. And when the shock wears off it will be worse.”<br /><br />Exiting the building together he insisted. “I’m pulling rank. You cannot drive. I can see your hands trembling from here.” He frowned. “Do you have someone to stay with you tonight? When the shock wears off completely you’re going to collapse and I don’t think it’s a good idea for you to be alone.” Looking up he answered his own question. “Never mind I can see that you will be well taken care of. See you tomorrow Lindsay. Try to get some rest.”<br /><br />Lindsay watched him walk away wondering what in the world he was talking about. Shrugging, she took a deep breath and started towards her car. She got three steps before she saw him. Leaning against the car with a ball cap pulled low over his eyes she almost didn’t recognize him. <em>If he almost fooled me how did Brian know it was him? And why did he assume he was here for me?</em> Her mind came up empty.<br /><br />When she approached the car Jon straightened and walked to the passenger side to open the door for her. When she would have spoken he shook his head. “Not yet, just focus on holding on until I get you home.”<br /><br />Halfway there, she couldn’t wait any longer. “How did you know?”<br /><br />“It’s on the news.”<br /><br />Parking the car he cautioned her. “Wait.” Coming around he opened her door, and helped her get out. When her legs threatened to give way he grabbed her around the waist and supported her.<br /><br />Inside her apartment he sat on the couch, cradling her on his lap. “Ok, talk to me.” He commanded gently. Slowly at first, she told him about what she saw and how she felt. When it became too hard he stroked her hair with his hand and waited until she could continue. When she got to the three year old she broke, and he held her while she shook and cried, stroking her with his hands and brushing her forehead with his lips.<br /><br />Later, when the shaking had stopped, when the tears had stopped she sat in his lap exhausted. Catching the hand that was stroking her hair she pressed a kiss into his palm. “Thank you” she whispered.<br /><br />Tipping her face up with a finger under her chin he searched her face. “Feeling better?”<br /><br />She blew out a breath and nodded. “I think so.”<br /><br />“Do you think you could eat something?”<br /><br />She smiled. “Only if I don’t have to get up.”<br /><br />Chuckling, he lifted her and set her on the couch. When she protested he shushed her. “I’m coming right back.” Rising he headed for the kitchen.<br /><br />He returned a few minutes later with a couple of sandwiches and a big pitcher of water. Sitting and resettling Lindsay on his lap he handed her a full glass. “Drink, you need to rehydrate.”<br /><br />Relaxing against him she obeyed. When she’d finished the whole glass he refilled it from the pitcher and handed her a sandwich.<br /><br />She had to smile. “I can see that you’re a good father.”<br /><br />At first he looked startled, then he laughed. “Thank you, but just for the record I do not see myself, in a fatherly role, in any way, shape, or form where you are concerned.”<br /><br />Chuckling she saluted him with her sandwich.<br /><br />The phone rang. Without dislodging her Jon reached over and, snagging the receiver handed it to her.<br /><br />“Hello. Oh hi Mom. You saw that on the news eh? Yes I was there. It was pretty bad. No, I’m fine. Really Mom, I’m ok. No I’m not alone, Jon’s here. Yes, the rock star.” She could feel his chest shake as he laughed silently. “Ok just a minute.” She handed him the phone. “She wants to talk to you.”<br /><br />“Hello Mrs. Chandler. Well, she was pretty shook up, but I think she’s going to be alright. No, I’m not going to leave her alone tonight. Yes, I understand that you’re trusting me with your daughter’s virtue. I’ll take good care of her. I’ll have her call you tomorrow. Good night.”<br /><br />“Oh my God. I don’t believe she said that.” She tried to hide her flaming face in his shirt. <br /><br />Jon just laughed and hugged her. “I kinda like being responsible for your virtue – or lack of it.”<br /><br />“Mmm, and I’m definitely glad that you take your responsibilities so seriously.” She kissed his neck, then licked a path up his neck to nibble on his ear lobe. He shivered in response and she chuckled.<br /><br />“If you keep that up you’re going to get me in trouble with your mother.” She didn’t stop. “Ok, that’s it.” Holding her tightly he stood and headed for the bedroom.<br /><br />In consideration for all she’d been through that day, Jon kept it soft and gentle. He gave her slow melting kisses that took her breath away and left her limp. His caresses were light and coaxing. Taking her pebbled nipples between his fingers he squeezed once, then rolled them gently. When her back arched he bent and kissed them softly causing her to sigh his name. Licking his way down her stomach he probed her navel with the tip of his tongue. Smoothing his hands down her legs he bent her knees and opened her for his touch. He explored her very lightly watching her face and monitoring her reactions. When she was panting and her hips began to move involuntarily he settled his hips between her thighs and slowly entered her. Then he held still. Braced on his elbows, he brushed her hair back from her forehead and traced her lips with the tip of his tongue while they pulsed intimately against each other. When she parted her lips for him he took possession of her mouth as slowly and gently as he had taken possession of her body. Finally, he began to move, more rocking than thrusting, slowly, gently until he felt her go rigid beneath him and the pulsations of her climax took him over the edge with her.<br /><br />Rolling off her he cradled her close to him. When she had caught her breath she gazed up at him in wonder. “How do you always know just what I need? Do you have some sort of erotic sixth sense or something?”<br /><br />He chuckled. “I don’t know.” He hesitated. “To be honest it’s never been like this for me either. I guess we just fit well together.”<br /><br />“Amen” She kissed him softly before throwing an arm across his chest and drifting off to sleep.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 17<br /></span><br />The weeks passed in relative calm. Jon was deep into preparation for a new album so Lindsay didn’t see as much of him as she’d have liked, but she understood. They both made a point of trying to make sure their time together was quality time. When the weather turned cold she was thrilled to realize that the fireplace in her apartment actually worked. She knew she was really missing Jon when all she could think of what she’d like to do to him in front of that fire. She sighed and tried not to count the hours until Jon would arrive.<br /><br /><br />One chilly Sunday afternoon Lindsay was sitting in front of the fire flipping through a magazine when Jon walked in the door. For a moment Lindsay just stared at him. He was wearing worn jeans that fit him like a glove and a black turtleneck like the one in the <em>All About Loving You</em> video. Something inside her snapped.<br /><br />“Hey honey, what do you think…” He didn’t get a chance to finish. He had to catch her as she literally launched herself at him. In seconds he found himself on the floor, flat on his back with Lindsay all over him like flies on honey. She ate at his mouth with hers like she was trying to devour him. Straddling his waist she sat up and pulled at his sweater. When he would have removed it completely, she shook her head. “No, leave it on.” She did push it up until it bunched under his arms though and fell upon his chest. Flexing her fingers into his pecs she kissed a path to his ear. Licking and sucking she continued down his chest to his nipples. Her hands dropped to his waist where she ripped open his jeans. Sliding down a bit further she tugged to get them off his hips. Gasping he lifted them to help her. Leaving his jeans hanging on the tops of his thighs, she kicked out of her pants, moved back up and sank down on him. This time it was his back that arched in pleasure. Gazing down at him she started to move, sliding slowly up and down. Eyes locked he cupped her breasts as she rose and fell, faster and faster until the wave swamped them.<br /><br />Laying side by side on the floor, panting, he was staring at the ceiling. “What….brought…..that….on?”<br /><br />“Complaining?”<br /><br />“Nope…want….to know…..how….to make….it….happen…..again.”<br /><br />She chuckled breathlessly. “Turtleneck.”<br /><br />He turned his head to look at her. “You have….. a thing…. for turtlenecks?”<br /><br />“Not usually, but I have to say babe, you wear them well.”<br /><br />He laughed. “Remind me not to wear them in public with you. Getting arrested for lewd behaviour would be too cliché.”<br /><br /><br />Three days later they were sitting watching TV when Lindsay’s phone rang.<br /><br />“Hello”<br /><br />“Hi, is this Lindsay Chandler?” asked a girl’s voice.<br /><br />“Yes it is, who’s this?” She shot Jon a wary look. At his questioning look she shrugged.<br /><br />“This is Stephanie Bongiovi. You told me I could call you if I needed …to talk.” She sounded unsure.<br /><br />“Absolutely. What’s wrong?” She needed to decide real quick whether to tell Jon what was going on.<br /><br />“Nothing’s wrong exactly it’s just …..” She wasn’t sure how to explain it.<br /><br />“Overwhelming?” Lindsay guessed.<br /><br />“Yes, exactly. I need to get away from it for a little while, but I don’t want to freak everyone out again.”<br /><br />Thinking quickly, Lindsay came up with a suggestion. “What do you say we have a girl’s night out on Friday, say dinner and a movie? We could talk.”<br /><br />There was a pause, then: “I’d like that.”<br /><br />“Are you going to tell your mother?”<br /><br />“I guess I’d better or she’d be calling the police again.”<br /><br />“Ok. If you have any problems tell her to call me and I’ll talk to her.”<br /><br />“Thanks, I will. See you Friday. ‘Night.”<br /><br />“’Night honey.”<br /><br />Hanging up she turned to Jon. “That was Stephanie.” His eyebrows rose in surprise. “I’d given her my phone number and told her to call me if she needed to get away and talk instead of running off again. She’s taking me up on my offer.”<br /><br />“What’s the matter?” He asked concerned.<br /><br />“I don’t know for sure. She sounds like she just needs a break. I’ll find out on Friday.”<br /><br />He gazed at her warmly, then hugged her tight. “You’re good people Lindsay. I’m glad I found you.”<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 18<br /></span><br />Friday night Dorothea dropped Stephanie off at the lab. “Will you drop her back at home after?” she asked.<br /><br />“Sure.” Lindsay responded. She hesitated, then murmured. “I’ll let you know if it’s anything serious.” <br /><br />Dorothea nodded. “Thanks.”<br /><br />Over nachos and burritos at Stephanie’s favorite Mexican restaurant Lindsay waited for Stephanie to open up. They discussed their favorite actors, TV shows, movies, and of course, music.”<br /><br />“You don’t have to say you like my dad’s band just because I’m here.” Stephanie assured her.<br /><br />Lindsay smiled. “Well actually I’ve been a fan since long before you were born.”<br /><br />“You mean back when he had all that long hair?” She was laughing.<br /><br />Lindsay laughed too. “Hey, I <strong>liked</strong> him with all of that long hair. All the cool guys had it. It was ‘the look’.”<br /><br />“But they all looked like girls” Stephanie insisted. “And I can’t believe that Grandpa didn’t cut it off!”<br /><br />“By that time your dad was too old for your grandpa to make him do anything. It was just the way things were then. Big hair, tight pants and ripped shirts…that was the 80s.” She sighed.<br /><br />“You say that like you miss it.”<br /><br />“Sometimes I do. I have some very good memories from that time.”<br /><br /> Stephanie frowned and turned serious. “That’s when my parents loved each other.”<br /><br />“Oh sweetie, they still do, it’s just…different now. Sometimes people change and realize that what they thought they wanted out of life isn’t enough anymore.” Lindsay hesitated. “You know that they both love you very much don’t you?”<br /><br />“Yeah, I know, it’s just hard getting used to everything. You know, a new house, Dad not living there, just us and Mom.” She smiled. “One thing that’s good though. They both seem happy again. Mom’s spending a lot of time with Sam.”<br /><br />“How do you feel about that?” Lindsay asked<br /><br />Stephanie shrugged. “He’s ok, I guess. He’s good to Mom and I know he’s trying real hard with us, it’s just….” She shrugged again.<br /><br />“It’s just that he’s not your dad.” Lindsay finished for her. <br /><br />Stephanie nodded. “Something’s up with Dad too.”<br /><br />“What do you mean?” Lindsay’s heart started to pound.<br /><br />“Well, I’m not really sure. He seems really happy again. I think he’s dating someone, but he won’t talk about it.” She frowned.<br /><br />“Maybe he thinks you’ve got enough to deal with right now.” She took a deep breath. “How would you feel if he was dating someone?”<br /><br />Stephanie thought about it for a few minutes before she answered. “If he’s happy then fine. I’d want to meet her though. I just hope it’s not some big busted blonde bimbo. If she was someone like you it’d be ok I guess.”<br /><br />Lindsay let out her breath and smiled.<br /><br />The movie they saw was a romantic comedy and they laughed all the way home, imitating and making fun of various characters.<br /><br />Dorothea met them on the front step when they arrived. After exchanging thank yous and goodbyes Stephanie entered the house.<br /><br />Dorothea turned to Lindsay. “Is she ok?”<br /><br />“Yes, she’s fine. I think she’s just a little overwhelmed by everything and needed to get away from it and talk to someone who’s not involved.” Dorothea snorted. “Well she doesn’t know I’m involved, and I’d like to keep it that way for now.”Dorothea looked at her speculatively. “Why?”<br /><br />“Because I want to be sure that she’s ready, and she’s not yet. I don’t want to add to what she’s already dealing with. Besides, if it doesn’t work out…..” she trailed off and shrugged.<br /><br />Dorothea nodded. “I see your point. Besides, right now she’s turning to you instead of running off, and I’d prefer to keep it that way.”<br /><br /><br />Entering her apartment she found Jon sitting on the couch waiting for her. She sat down beside him and laid her head on his shoulder. Taking her hand and lacing their fingers together he prodded her. “Well?”<br /><br />She sighed. “That’s one very bright, mature thirteen year old you have.”<br /><br />“I know, sometimes I think she’s too smart for all of our good.” He smiled against her hair.<br /><br />“She’s ok, just a little overwhelmed with everything. She just needed to talk to someone outside the family.” She tilted her head back to look at him. “She’s on to you, you know.”<br /><br />“What do you mean?”<br /><br />“She’s sure you’re dating someone. She just doesn’t know who.”<br /><br />He stilled. “How did she react to the idea?” It was his turn to hold his breath.<br /><br />“She said that she hoped it wasn’t ‘some big busted blonde bimbo’. Other than that if you were happy she was ok with it.” <br /><br />He chuckled relieved. “I guess we’re safe then.”<br /><br />Lindsay smiled in return. <em>I’m in too deep!</em> And she didn’t know if she had the courage to try again. <em> But if I don’t want to lose him then I’m going to have to try. But if I let him go public I will likely lose him anyway.</em> It was a decision she was going to have to make, and soon.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2233992774788831133.post-24354544928067690792008-11-04T13:23:00.000-08:002008-11-04T13:42:50.721-08:00Chapter 13The next day Lindsay was sitting at her desk with a bottle of aspirin and a double latte in front of her holding her head in her hands. The aspirin hadn’t touched her headache and the coffee hadn’t helped either – except that now she was fully awake to enjoy her hangover. The fact that her conversation with Jon the night before kept replaying in her mind was just adding to the pounding in her skull. <em>That was just wonderful. Real smart Linds. Why didn’t you just give him a big push out the door?<br /></em><br />Just when she thought her day couldn’t get any worse a knock at her door had her groaning as she lifted her head towards offending noise. If it wouldn’t have hurt her head she would have laughed. <em>Shit!! Just what I need today. I don’t think I have the strength to deal with this right now.<br /></em><br />Forcing a smile on her face she rose to greet her unexpected guest. “Hello Dorothea, come on in and have a seat.”<br /><br />Sitting, Dorothea gave her a sympathetic smile. “I understand you had a bit of a rough night last night.”<br /><br />Laughing ruefully Lindsay replied. “I guess you could say that. I hesitate to ask, but how did you know?”<br /><br />“Jon called me this morning.”<br /><br />Lindsay frowned. “For a man who likes to keep his private life private he has a very big mouth.”<br /><br />“Don’t be mad at him. He knew you were upset and didn’t know how to help you. He thought maybe I could.”<br /><br />Deciding there was no use being coy or pretending, Lindsay had to ask. “Forgive me for being blunt, but why would you want to?”<br /><br />Dorothea smiled. “Just because we’re splitting up doesn’t mean I don’t care about him anymore. I still want him to be happy.” She paused searching for words. “Even if Jon hadn’t asked me to I was planning on coming to speak with you. Jon tells me that you know about Romeo and Sam.” When Lindsay nodded she continued. “I want you to understand my side of it. Jon had been the love of my life since high school. We had our ups and downs like all couples. In case you haven’t noticed yet, Jon can be very intense and more than a little stubborn.” Lindsay nodded in agreement. She’d already stubbed her toe on that one more than once. “His music is his life and sometimes the rest of us get pushed to the side – not for long, but sometimes you have to remind him that there is more to who he is than what he does. His fame can often make having a ‘normal’ life difficult. I think it was easier for me because I was there before the band hit it big. We were all learning to cope together. When the touring slowed down and he branched out into other areas I was in full support. I knew he had to have something to do or he’d go crazy. I had my school and the kids to keep me busy and it wasn’t like he was never home. I’m not sure what happened really. I just know that one morning I woke up and thought I am so tired of living like this. Always having to been on my guard outside of the house for photographers – especially if the kids are with me, having to watch what I say to anyone outside the inner circle because it may end up in the papers the next day, never being able to have a ‘normal’ family vacation, or even be able to go see a movie with my husband without getting mobbed. The houses, the money, meeting celebrities, it was all great in the beginning, but the novelty wore off. I guess I just reached the point where I’d had enough. I wasn’t happy anymore and neither was Jon. Sam represented a ‘regular’ life. That’s what I need at this point in my life. That’s what I want my kids to have. I don’t blame Jon, he’s done the best he can. It’s just not enough for me anymore.”<br /><br />Realizing how she made things sound, Dorothea rushed to add. “It really isn’t as bad as it sounds, it just takes some getting used to. There are a few tricks to dealing with it. First and foremost, don’t believe half of what you read. In fact, avoid reading the tabloids at all if you can. You have to trust Jon, and believe me you can. When he makes a promise or a commitment to something or someone he keeps it. Second, you have to be somewhat independent. You have a good job which will help. If you become dependent on Jon for everything you’ll never make it. Third, you have to be very patient. He tells me that you’re a fan and that you understand about his passion for his music. That’s a good start. If you like arena football, that will be a bonus. The rest you’ll pick up as you go. I understand that you’ve worked in politics in the past, so you’re actually better prepared that I ever was to deal with the public and the celebrities.”<br /><br />Thinking she was in the middle of some Twilight Zone episode Lindsay held up her hand. “I’m sorry Dorothea, it may be the hangover, but I still don’t understand why you’re telling me all this.”<br /><br />Sighing, Dorothea leaned forward. “Look, I don’t know how you feel about him, but I know Jon. He’s happy again, happier than I’ve seen him in a long time. And you’re the cause. You’re being upset last night upset him.” She shrugged. “You found my daughter and brought her back home to me. You were there when she needed you. I owe you one. Plus, it eases my mind knowing that when the kids are with their father there will be someone there to care for them emotionally as well as physically.”<br /><br />Rising she started for the door and paused. “One other thing. We’ll be moved out by the end of the month. But if you need to move things in sooner, just let me know.”<br /><br />Stunned, Lindsay didn’t know where to start to respond to that loaded statement. “Wait a minute. <strong>You’re</strong> moving out of the house?”<br /><br />Dorothea nodded. “Yes, Jon’s studio is there, the security he needs, plus I want to make a new start away from everything that that house represents.”<br /><br />“And what makes you think that I’ll be moving in?”<br /><br />Dorothea just smiled and walked out the door.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 14</span><br /><br />Leaving the office Lindsay delayed going home. She wasn’t ready to face Jon yet. Walking in the park near her apartment she thought about everything Dorothea had said. If she thought for one minute that this relationship was going anywhere then the advice would indeed be invaluable. However, experience had taught Lindsay that life didn’t work that way, at least not for her.<br /><br />Knowing that she couldn’t put it off any longer she headed home. Approaching her door she could hear a guitar playing softly. Lindsay stood for long minutes staring at her door. She knew she owed him an apology, she just didn’t know what to say. <em>Well at least he’s still here. That’s something. </em> Taking a deep breath she opened the door.<br /><br />Closing the door behind her she leaned against it for a moment and just looked at him. Other than a slight hesitation in the music he didn’t acknowledge her presence. He wasn’t going to make it easy for her. Letting out her breath, Lindsay walked over and plunked down beside him on the couch. Leaning her head back she closed her eyes while she searched for the right words. When she opened them again she found him watching her.<br /><br /><br />Raising her hand she caressed his cheek. “I’m sorry. I know none of this is your fault. I shouldn’t have taken it out on you.” She smiled ruefully. “Chalk it up to too much alcohol and a strong urge to keep you all to myself.” <em>For as long as I can anyway</em>.<br /><br />Catching her hand he pressed a kiss into her palm sending bolts of sensation shooting up her arm. “I’m all yours.”<br /><br />Setting aside the guitar Jon slid his arm around her shoulders and pulled her closer. Laying her head on his shoulder she sighed, closed her eyes and inhaled his presence next to her. <em>One of these days I really need to find out what that cologne is.<br /></em><br />Idly trailing his fingertips up and down her upper arm he left goosebumps in his wake. “Did Dorothea come to see you today?”<br /><br />Tilting her head back to meet his eyes Lindsay stared at him. “Yes. Do you have any idea how weird that was? I actually thought for a minute that my hangover was giving me hallucinations. And I’m pretty sure Miss Manners doesn’t have a category for discussions with your lover’s wife on how to deal successfully with his lifestyle. The whole thing was frankly surreal.” She shook her head in amazement.<br /><br />He chuckled. “Ex-wife.”<br /><br />“What?”<br /><br />“Your lover’s ex-wife.”<br /><br />“Whatever, I’m sure Dr. Phil would have something interesting to say about the situation.”<br /><br />“Hey, it’s working for me, is it working for you?” They both laughed.<br /><br />Bending his arm he brought her even closer and brushed her lips with his. “This is definitely working for me.” She murmured against his mouth.<br /><br />“How’s your headache?”<br /><br />“It’s down to a dull ache. How about making me forget about it?”<br /><br />“I’ll do my best.” He promised as he stood, pulled her up, scooped her up and carried her into the bedroom.<br /><br />Laying her on the bed he proceeded to slowly undress her, exploring each bit of skin thus revealed first with his fingertips, then with his mouth until he had her stripped bare, gasping and writhing beneath him. When she would have returned the favour, he shook his head. “No. Just lie back and let me love you.”<br /><br />Standing, he moved to where she could watch him as, piece by slow piece he removed his clothing. Her mind provided the music as her libido fired up even more at the display he put on. <em>My God this man makes me hot!</em><br /><br />Returning to her side Jon took both of her hands and raised them above her head, gently pinning them there with one hand, leaving her helpless and unable to hide from his gaze – or his touch.<br /><br />With his free hand he stroked down her body, at first so lightly she could barely feel it, then, as her skin became sensitized, more firmly. Unable to lie still she began to undulate, her body arching into his touch, silently begging for more. Chuckling, he obliged, cupping first one breast, then the other, kneading gently, enjoying her cries of pleasure. Bending down he touched just the tip of his tongue to the hard kernels of her nipples, lightly circling. He sensed as much as felt the shudder that racked her body as her spine arched involuntarily. <br /><br />“Jon, please.” She gasped. In response he drew the nipple he was teasing deep into his mouth and suckled. Lindsay screamed. He then gave her other breast the same treatment. At the same time his hand glided over her stomach to settle in the juncture of her thighs, gently nudging her restless legs wider. Drowning in the sensations bombarding her Lindsay mindlessly followed his urging. The first touch of his fingers caressing her most intimate flesh almost pushed her over the edge. Sensing she was on the brink he retreated, caressing her soothingly to calm her. As soon as her heart rate stabilized, he started again. This time he pushed her legs even further apart until he could fit between and slide them over his shoulders. Arms freed she reached for him, but he grasped her hands with his, linking their fingers tightly. The feel of his tongue gliding and probing her humid flesh had her body arching again. Ignoring her pleas for him to stop he teased and tasted as he willed. Finally, when he’d decided that he’d tortured her enough, he penetrated her with his tongue as deep as he could go. Screaming, she went over the edge.<br /><br />Before she had a chance to recover he rose up, and fitting himself to her still pulsing opening he filled her with one slow thrust of his hips. Breathless, she could do nothing but moan hoarsely. He leaned down and captured her mouth thrusting deep with his tongue. With her legs still over his shoulders she was helpless to do anything but endure as with a slow rocking of his hips, she was thrown back into the storm. This time they went over the edge together.<br /><br />When Lindsay next became aware of anything Jon was settling her head on his shoulder and cuddling her close to his side. Boneless, unable and unwilling to protest she sighed in satiation and gave herself up to the oblivion that beckoned. Brushing a last kiss over her forehead he followed her. <br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 15<br /></span><br />The next couple of weeks were fairly calm. The cases at the office were pretty straight forward robberies, B & E’s, nothing overly exciting. Her nights were a different matter however. They were beyond anything she’d ever even dreamed. When she arrived home Jon would be waiting for her. They would either prepare dinner together or order in. Then Jon would play her whatever he had written that day, discussing the meaning behind the songs and asking her opinion. She even helped him when he got stuck for a word. It had become her favorite time of day, well, almost. When it was time for bed and they adjourned to the bedroom it was like entering heaven. Each time was better than the last. Every night Lindsay had to pinch herself to convince herself that all of this was really happening to her. And every morning she prayed it would last just a little bit longer.<br /><br />The only tension came when Jon tried to get Lindsay to go out in public with him. Despite his best arguments she flatly refused.<br /><br />“Why won’t you go? Are you ashamed to be seen with me?”<br /><br />“Don’t be ridiculous. It’s just too soon. The paparazzi are constantly following you waiting for something to happen. I simply refuse to be tabloid fodder.” She answered stubbornly.<br /><br />“Well, I have to go.” He replied exasperated.<br /><br />“So go. I’m not stopping you.”<br /><br />“I’m not going alone.” He threatened.<br /><br />Swallowing the lump in her throat she nodded in acknowledgement.<br /><br />“Don’t you care?”<br /><br />“Of course I care. But I’m not going to be a dog in the manger either. I can’t expect you to stay home just because I’m not ready to have my life put under a microscope.”<br /><br />He sighed in defeat…..and took David.<br /><br /><br /><br />One night they were cuddled on the couch laughing as Lindsay told him about a rather inept burglar that they had caught that day.<br /><br />“So this guy steals their jewelry and electronics, helps himself to some leftovers he found in the fridge and then proceeds to leave a note telling her how to improve her meat loaf. And he signs it! When the cops asked him why he signed the note he said he wanted her to be able to find him because she obviously needed some new recipes.”<br /><br />Shaking his head and chuckling Jon suddenly remembered. “Oh, by the way, Mom and Dad are having a family dinner on Sunday. Tony’s coming in from California to produce some show in the city, so Mom thought it was a good chance to get everyone together.”<br /><br />“Are you taking the kids?”<br /><br />“Yeah, and Mom asked if you would bring a salad.”<br /><br />“You mean she wants <strong>you</strong> to bring a salad.”<br /><br />“No, I mean she wants <strong>you</strong> to bring a salad.”<br /><br />“Tell you what. We’ll compromise. I’ll make the salad. You can take it.”<br /><br />Pulling away, he turned to face her. His frustration was easy to read in his face. “What’s your objection this time? There won’t be any reporters or photographers there. Just my family. What do you think they’re going to do to you? Tie you down and torture you to give up your secrets? Stand you in a corner, point their fingers at you and whisper behind your back? What is it you’re so afraid of?”<br /><br />“Cute. This isn’t about me, or at least not just about me. You have four kids dealing with the breakup of their family. Their world has been turned upside down and inside out. What they need now is support and some time and peace to let things settle while they learn to cope with all of these changes in their life. The last thing they need is someone else coming on the scene causing yet another new situation for them to deal with.”<br /><br />Unable to argue with her logic he gave up. Standing, he headed for the door. “I’m going for a run.”<br /><br />For the first time in weeks, Lindsay fell asleep alone.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2233992774788831133.post-79813597480163880602008-11-04T13:14:00.000-08:002008-11-04T17:14:53.949-08:00Chapter 10It was a good thing that there were no major cases at the office over the next two days. As hard as Lindsay tried to focus on her work, thoughts of Jon kept intruding. She couldn’t believe that she could miss him so much after so short a time. <em>If it’s this bad now, maybe it would be better if he didn’t come back. Better a little pain now than a whole lot more later.</em> The package that arrived for her on the second afternoon didn’t help either. She did learn a valuable lesson though – open your mail in your office. There hadn’t been a return address on the envelope so she opened it at the reception desk. Out fell several Hershey’s kisses and a note that just said <em>I miss you.</em> There was no signature, but Lindsay knew who it came from…and Julie hadn’t stopped bugging her since to spill the beans on who her oh so unbelievably romantic boyfriend was. The fact that Lindsay wouldn’t talk wasn’t stopping her from asking.<br /><br />After a good workout, quick dinner and a hot shower, Lindsay had gone to bed early with a book hoping it would help her get to sleep - something she hadn’t got much of the night before. She felt like she’d only been asleep a few minutes when a knocking at the door jerked her awake. A glance at the clock on her bedside table told her it was only 3:00am. <em>This better be important or someone’s gonna get it!<br /></em><br />Stumbling to the door, she automatically checked the peep hole. <em>I’m going to kill him!</em> Opening the door, she just stared at him. Without waiting to be invited, he gently pushed her back so that he could get in and close the door. “I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry. Please don’t be mad.” He begged with that little boy smile. “I know you need your sleep, but I just couldn’t stand it anymore. You can go back to sleep, I won’t bother you. I just want to hold you.”<br /><br />Without answering Lindsay turned and headed back to her bedroom. Stopping her beside the bed, he whisked her nightgown up and off. When she looked at him with a raised brow he just grinned. “I want to hold you, not an armful of cotton.”<br /><br />Shaking her head she crawled back into bed. Lying on her side and closing her eyes she could hear the sounds of his clothes hitting the floor. <em>He’s had people picking up after him for too long.</em> Seconds later she felt the bed dip under his weight, then his arm slid around her waist and he pulled her back against him. Kissing her neck just beneath her ear – apparently a favorite spot – he curled his hand around her breast and promptly went to sleep. It took her a bit longer, but finally the sound of his deep rhythmic breathing and the feel of his chest rising and falling against her back lulled her into dreamland.<br /><br />She was awakened the next morning by the feel of Jon’s hand sweeping down her body pushing blankets out of his way. Curious to see what he would do she pretended to be asleep. Using just his fingertips he lightly traced the line of her curves from her shoulder down over her rib cage, the depression of her waist, up over her hip and down to her knee. Moving back slightly, he started again at the nape of her neck tracing the track of her spine down to her butt where he circled one globe lightly. He was using his left hand and the calluses on his fingers were causing goose bumps to rise on her flesh despite her attempts to feign sleep.<br /><br />Reaching over her he caressed first one breast, then the other very lightly in ever decreasing circles until he was down to just the aureole. Unable to lay still any longer, her back arched slightly pushing her breast into his hand. Chuckling, he gave her what she wanted, taking her plump mound in his hand and kneading firmly. When Lindsay would have rolled onto her back, Jon leaned against her preventing it. “No. Stay as you are.” He whispered in her ear before taking the lobe between his lips and biting it lightly. Moaning softly she did as she was bid.<br /><br />In response his hand moved slowly down over her belly, pausing to circle and dip into her navel several times. Encountering her curls, he threaded his fingers through them before searching further. Finding the nub he was looking for he rubbed lightly for long moments, then took it between thumb and forefinger and plucked it like a string. Lindsay bit back a scream as the waves of pleasure washed over her. Taking pity on her he released her ultra sensitive flesh to run his hand up over her hip and down to her knee. Gripping her thigh he bent her top leg until her knee was level with her waist. Sliding his fingers up the back of her thigh he let his fingers play in her wet slit, teasing and probing until she was gasping and writhing against him.<br /><br />Moving closer behind her he replaced his fingers with the broad head of his erection and penetrated her slowly, so slowly that she clutched the sheets and bit her pillow to stifle her screams. He continued to move slowly in and out, now going deep, now more shallow. She was quickly to the point of desperation. “Now Jon, now.” She begged. He just chuckled and murmured “Not yet.” Helpless to make him move faster or deeper she resorted to a little subtle torture of her own. On his next downstroke she flexed her internal muscles to grip him tightly. Hearing him suck in a breath and release it in a loud moan had her smiling in satisfaction. Two can play that game! Relaxing, she allowed his withdrawl, but tightened again on the next stroke. He groaned again. “Ok, ok, let go!” he growled in her ear.<br /><br />When she complied he grabbed her hip and picked up speed. “More” she pleaded. Tightening his grip he did as she asked. He was so deep she thought he must be touching her heart. As the peak approached she reached back needing something solid to hold onto as she drowned in sensation. He grabbed her hand and held tight as they reached the summit together and cried out in unison.<br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 11</span><br /><br />After three nights of broken sleep Lindsay was at her wits end. If she didn’t get a solid eight hours in really soon, she wasn’t going to be able to do her job. She loved falling asleep and waking in his arms, but she really needed sleep. That night, after much internal debate, she was ready if her late night visitor came again. At three am, right on cue, the knock came. Opening the door she turned, and picked up what she had left lying on the table. “Here.” Grabbing his hand she slapped the key into his palm. “If you’re going to keep showing up at this hour, use this and stop waking me up.” And she headed back to bed. Grinning he pulled out his key ring, added the new one and followed her. Entering the room she pointed at a chair she’d placed in the corner by his side of the bed. “And your clothes go there.”<br /><br />The next few weeks fell into a sort of routine. At first Lindsay would still wake briefly when he joined her, but she soon became used him arriving at all hours. After a few days Richie headed back to L.A. Jon would stay home until the kids were in bed before heading to Lindsay’s. They would curl up on the couch together and talk – about their day, their likes, dislikes, families, their pasts…getting to know each other. If Jon noticed that Lindsay always managed to turn the conversation back to him without revealing much about herself he never let on.<br /><br />One Saturday afternoon Jon called Lindsay at work. “Dorothea took the kids to her sister’s for the weekend. Why don’t we go to Elements for dinner tonight?”<br /><br />“I’m just about finished here, why don’t I cook for you instead?” she suggested.<br /><br />“But you’ve been working hard all week. You deserve a break.” He coaxed.<br /><br />“Well, I could pick up a couple of movies and some take out from that Chinese Restaurant you told me about.” She countered.<br /><br />There was a long moment of silence at the other end. “Is it that you don’t want to go out or that you don’t want to go to Elements?”<br /><br />“I’m just not sure I’m ready to meet your family.”<br /><br />“But honey, you’ve already met my parents, what’s the big deal about meeting my brother? He’s been bugging me for weeks to bring you by.”<br /><br />“I met your parents in a professional capacity not a personal one – big difference…..and how does Matt know anything about me?”<br /><br />“I told him.”<br /><br />“You told him what, exactly?” Her tone warned him to be careful.<br /><br />“Don’t worry I didn’t tell him your name, just that I had met someone special.” He assured her placatingly.<br /><br />“I still think it’s too soon.” She replied stubbornly.<br /><br />“Ok, ok, we’ll play it your way…..for now.” He sighed. “I’ll see you in a little while.”<br /><br />Hanging up Lindsay let out the breath she’d been holding. That was close.<br /><br /><br />A few days later Jon walked into Lindsay’s apartment looking exhausted but triumphant. Concern etching her face she watched him sink down on the couch beside her. “What?”<br /><br />He smiled tiredly. “Dorothea and I sat down with our lawyers today. There’s still a few little things to sort out, but the major stuff is done. It went surprisingly smoothly and amicably. We’re thinking of making a public statement next week.”<br /><br />Stunned, Lindsay didn’t know what to say.<em> Oh my God. Please tell me he didn’t do this for me!</em> “Are you sure this is what you want?” Seeing his look of surprise she hurried to explain. “I’m just saying that this is a huge step. You’ve been together a long time. There are four kids to think about. Then there’s your image and your career. Just be sure you’ve thought this thorough from all angles, especially before you go public.” The very thought of this hitting the media made panic start deep in her core.<br /><br />He gazed at her thoughtfully for a long moment. “Honey, what is this really all about? Do you want me to stay with her?”<br /><br />Trying to calm her pounding heart she looked him in the eye. “I want you to do whatever is going to make you happy. I just don’t want you to jump into this and then a few months or years down the road realize you made a big mistake.” I couldn’t take that again.<br /><br />“Believe me I’m not ‘jumping’ into anything. I’ve thought about this for a very long time. Dorothea and I both agreed – it’s time to let go. The kids will be alright, we’ll both still be there for them. As for my career, I don’t think the fans are going to leave because I get a divorce.” He smiled wryly.<br /><br />“Are you kidding? When you’re going to be fair game? If you think Richie’s being hounded, you’re about to learn the meaning of the word! You’re going to have every red-blooded single – and some not so single – woman chasing after you like starving dogs after fresh meat!” <em>And I can’t compete with that.<br /></em><br />Chuckling, he hugged her close. “Oh, it won’t be that bad.” She snorted in disbelief. He turned her face to his. “Hey, you’re the only one that I want.” And he kissed her gently.<br /><br /><br />The next evening Jon appeared with guitar in hand. “I’ve been working on a couple songs and I’m having problems with them. I thought I might work on them here if you don’t mind.”<br /><br /><em>Mind? Do I have STUPID written across my forehead?</em> “I don’t mind at all.”<br /><br />Something in her voice had him glancing sharply at her. “What?”<br /><br />“Nothing.” She managed to get out.<br /><br />“Then what’s with that look?” He looked bewildered.<br /><br />Unable to keep a straight face any longer she blushed and laughed out loud. “You’re about to make one of my fantasies come true and you’re asking me if I mind?!” She just shook her head.<br /><br />He grinned. “Fantasies huh? You got anymore you want to tell me about?”<br /><br />“Maybe later.” She blushed again. When he continued to look at her speculatively, she wrinkled her nose at him. “Oh shut up and play!” He laughed.<br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 12</span><br /><br />Lindsay could have said to the exact moment when the news hit the tabloids, even if Jon hadn’t warned her the night before. The normal buzz of conversation around the lab doubled – at least from the female component of the staff. Knowing she wasn’t going to like it, but unable to help herself, she glanced through the stories while she was trying to choke down a sandwich in the cafeteria at lunch. Shaking her head at some of the conclusions these “investigative reporters” came up with, she threw away the rest of her now tasteless sandwich and headed back to her office. She only got as far as the reception desk. There Julie and a group of female colleagues were gathered, pouring over the latest editions and drooling. Julie looked up and saw her.<br /><br />“Let’s ask Lindsay what she thinks. After all she has <strong>met</strong> the man. In fact he came to see her here a few weeks ago.”<br /><br />As one they turned towards her and the questions started flying fast and furious. “What’s he really like?” “Do you know what really caused the split?” “Can you introduce me?” “Have you met Richie?”<br /><br />Holding up her hands to stop the flow she had to laugh. “He’s a really nice guy, I think whatever caused the split is between the two of them, and no, I didn’t get to meet Richie. Now, sorry girls, but I really need to get back to work.”<br /><br />By mid afternoon she gave up. She couldn’t concentrate on anything for longer than five minutes. Her thoughts were in turmoil. <em>How much longer will he stay with me? Is this the beginning of the end?<br /></em><br />Deciding she needed a drink -or two- she let the girls talk her into joining them at their favorite bar after work. As an exercise in de-sensitizing herself it failed miserably. The more they speculated on Jon’s tastes, prowess, and “assets”, the more she drank. Consoling herself that she could really shake them up and tell them the true story, she let their conversation wash over her while she continued to drown her sorrows. Well, it was nice while it lasted.<br /><br />When she walked, or more aptly stumbled into her apartment she found Jon waiting for her. Leaning against the doorframe to the kitchen he watched her. “Where were you tonight?” If she was going to be working late she was good to call and let him know – until tonight.”<br /><br />“The girls at the office insisted I join them after work for a few cocktails to discuss New Jersey’s newest, hottest, most eligible bachelor.” She answered snidely.<br /><br />Running a hand through his hair he grimaced. “Honey, I’m sorry.”<br /><br />“Why, it’s not your fault. Although according to some reporters it might be. Apparently some ‘source close to the couple’ has hinted that infidelity was the cause of the split. Naturally, it must be you because you have beautiful women all over the world falling at your feet, and surely no woman would be stupid enough to take the chance of losing you by cheating.” She laughed shortly. “They’ve already started speculating on who you got caught with. They’ve got quite the list – from Jennifer Aniston to Demi Moore to at least one of Dorothea’s sisters with Diane Lane thrown in for a little nostalgia. You certainly have the gossip mill buzzing.” Heading toward the kitchen she mumbled “I need a drink.”<br /><br />Stepping in front of her he blocked her path. “How about some coffee instead? I’ll make it.” he suggested carefully, trying to figure out how to diffuse her anger.<br /><br />“I need an anesthetic not a stimulant. I’ve had quite enough of that today.”<br /><br />“Why don’t we sit down and talk about this?” he coaxed.<br /><br />“What’s to talk about? I knew this was going to happen, I just wasn’t prepared for how much it would hurt.”<br /><br />The tears in her eyes and voice tore at him, but he didn’t know how to ease her pain. “Lindsay, what do you want me to say?”<br /><br /><em>That you won’t leave me. That you really do want me.</em> “Nothing,” Suddenly exhausted she closed her eyes. “I just want to go to bed.”<br /><br />After watching her stagger to the bedroom, Jon sat on the couch for a long time contemplating the situation and how to help Lindsay cope with it before finally heading for bed himself.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2233992774788831133.post-58707652040879144782008-11-04T12:45:00.000-08:002008-11-04T13:09:45.745-08:00Chapter 7Dressed and sharing a more substantial breakfast that a cup of coffee, they discussed potential places where Stephanie might go to hide.<br /><br />“Do you still have that apartment in New York?” Lindsay asked.<br /><br />“Yes, but I already had building management check there.”<br /><br />“What about the Hampton house?”<br /><br />He thought for a minute, then shook his head. “She couldn’t get there by herself.”<br /><br />“She has your eyes.” Lindsay noted.<br /><br />He smiled fondly and nodded. “She can be stubborn like me too…but she’s also very sensitive and caring. Stephanie is my poet.”<br /><br />“A musician like her daddy?”<br /><br />He shrugged. “Jake’s the musician. Steph will be the songwriter…or run the football team.” He chuckled.<br /><br />“And Jesse?”<br /><br />“Jesse’s the businessman. He’ll make sure that the others don’t get out of control or cheated.”<br /><br />He sighed and ran his hand through his hair. “Frankly I’m out of ideas. We’ve looked everywhere we can think of, talked to her friends….I don’t know what else to do.”<br /><br />“That’s why you called us.” She tried to reassure him. “We have people on the team who have been very successful in finding missing kids – even those that don’t want to be found. Have faith.”<br /><br />He nodded, sighed again and asked. “What’s your plan for today?”<br /><br />“I’m going to meet with the rest of the team and see what they’ve found, and then I think I’ll take another run at some of Stephanie’s friends – particularly Becky.” Lindsay answered.<br /><br />“Do you think she knows where Steph is?”<br /><br />“I think she knows more than she’s telling us.” She grimaced. “I just hope her parents persuade her to talk. I hate bullying kids. What are you going to do?”<br /><br />“I’m going back to the house to see if anyone has heard anything or come up with any new ideas. Richie’s coming in today, so I’ll have to fill him in on everything.”<br /><br />She frowned at him. “Everything?”<br /><br />Noticing her frown he amended “Almost everything.”<br /><br />Relieved she smiled. “How’s he doing?”<br /><br />“He’s got a ways to go yet, but he’ll be ok.”<br /><br />“I’m glad he’ll be here for you.”<br /><br />Jon nodded. “He’s one of the few people I’ve always been able to count on.”<br /><br />Pausing at the door he leaned down to kiss her goodbye. “Keep me updated.”<br /><br />She nodded, gave him a quick hug and preceded him out into the hall.<br /><br /><br />In the conference room at the lab, the whole team had assembled again. Brian looked around the table. “Anything new to report?”<br /><br />Tom spoke up first. “We rechecked that area behind the garage. There wasn’t much, but there were some scuff marks on the wall that could have come from shoe prints and the bushes there are pretty strong. A girl her size could have climbed over. The area on the other side is paved, so there were no tracks to follow.”<br /><br />“Still no sign of this being abduction other than that foreign hair in the bedroom?” Brian asked. Around the table heads shook.<br /><br />“I think it’s safe to assume this is a runaway situation.” Lindsay said. “Her father finally spilled the beans. He and his wife had an argument earlier in the day. Stephanie overheard it and was upset.”<br /><br />Brian nodded. “OK, so any ideas on where to look next?”<br /><br />“What about other properties they own?” Mark asked. “The guy’s loaded. I’m sure he must own several homes.”<br /><br />Brian looked at Lindsay. “You’re our resident Bon Jovi expert. What do you know about what property he owns?”<br /><br />Trying not to blush, Lindsay answered. “There’s an apartment in New York City, but Jon says that he’s already had building management check that. And there’s a summer home in the Hamptons, but he’s sure she wouldn’t be able to get there by herself.”<br /><br />“That’s it?” Mark asked in disbelief.<br /><br />“Contrary to popular belief, yes” she replied dryly.<br /><br />“Did he have any ideas on where to look?” Brian asked.<br /><br />Lindsay shook her head. “No, but I’d like to take another run at Becky. I still think she knows something.”<br /><br />Brian agreed. “Just make sure her parents are there.”<br /><br />Half an hour later she was sitting across the table from a scared looking thirteen year old and her grim looking parents. She may have looked scared, but she was stubborn.<br /><br />“I don’t know where Steph is.” She insisted mulishly.<br /><br />Lindsay sighed. “I’m sorry Becky, but I don’t believe you. You are her best friend. You share everything. Phone records show that she called you the night before she disappeared.” She paused debating how much to say. “Did she tell you about the fight her parents had?” She saw the surprised look on Becky’s face. Lindsay nodded. “Was she really upset?”<br /><br />When Becky hesitated her mother spoke up. “Becky if you know anything you have to speak up.”<br /><br />Becky bit her lower lip. “But I promised Steph I wouldn’t tell!”<br /><br />Lindsay, sensing victory, went in for the kill. “Becky, Stephanie’s parents know she’s upset and they want to talk to her and explain what she heard. They’re worried sick about her. She’s alone and they want to know that she’s ok. You know that with her father’s celebrity there are a lot of people who would take advantage of that if they could get a hold of her.” Becky frowned uncertainly. “Please Becky, help us find her before she gets hurt.”<br /><br />“I don’t know for sure where she went. All she said was something about want to listen to the waves, and that she needed Rob to drive her.”<br /><br />“Who’s Rob?” Lindsay asked.<br /><br />“Our oldest son” Becky’s father replied “He goes to college in the city and was home for a break. He left yesterday morning to go back.”<br /><br />Lindsay stood up and headed for the door. Stopping she looked back at Becky. “Thank you Becky. You did the right thing.”<br /><br />Heading out the door she almost ran down the hallway to Brian’s office. “I think I know where she is.”<br /><br />Brian grabbed his jacket. “I’ll drive.”<br /><br />When they got into the car he said “Where to?”<br /><br />“East Hampton. I’ll have to get directions to the house.” With that she pulled out her cell phone and dialed.<br /><br />“Hi babe.” The warmth in his voice caused her to blush in remembrance.<br /><br />“How did you know it was me? Or did you?”<br /><br />“I programmed your numbers into my phone while you were getting dressed this morning. Or do think I call everyone babe?” he admonished her.<br /><br />“Actually, now that you mention it, yes.” She answered honestly. “I figured it saves you having to remember names. And it drives the girls wild.” He laughed<br /><br />Seeing the inquiring look she was getting from Brian, she brought her mind back to the matter at hand. “How do I get to the Hampton house?” she asked in a businesslike tone.<br /><br />Sobering instantly he gave her the directions. “Is that where she is?” he asked anxiously.<br /><br />“I don’t know for sure, but it’s a possibility. What kind of staff do you keep there?”<br /><br />“Just a housekeeper that comes in once a week when we’re not there, and a gardener that comes when he needs to.”<br /><br />“What about security?”<br /><br />“There isn’t a lot. Just the local patrols and a locked gate on the street side. It’s kind of hard to secure the beach. We take extra when we’re there. You’ll need the code for the gate. I’ll call the housekeeper. ”<br /><br />“No, don’t. If Stephanie is there she may run if someone shows up and then we’ll be back at square one again.”<br /><br />“Ok, the code is 1987 in case you get there before me.”<br /><br />She laughed. “Not very original Jon. Any fan could figure that one out.”<br /><br />“That’s the beauty of it. It’s so obvious, they’ll never think to try it.” He replied smugly.<br /><br />The second part of his previous statement registered. “What do you mean if I get there before you?”<br /><br />“I’m on my way.”<br /><br />“Jon, no. Let us check it out. She may not even be there and you need to stay home in case she tries to contact you.” She paused “and if she is there she may still be too upset to talk to you.”<br /><br />“But…”<br /><br />“Jon, please, trust me. Let us do our job. I’ll let you know as soon as I know anything.” Silence. “I promise, if she’s there, I’ll bring her home.”<br /><br />“Ok” he finally gave in reluctantly. “Just promise me you’ll call as soon as you know anything.”<br /><br />“I promise.”<br /><br />“What makes you think that she’s in the Hamptons?” Brian asked when she’d hung up. “I thought her father said she couldn’t get there alone.”<br /><br />“Becky said that Stephanie mentioned wanting to listen to the waves and needed Rob – Becky’s older brother – to drive her.” She shrugged. “It was the only thing I could think of that fits.”<br /><br />Brian nodded. “Nice job.”<br /><br />“If I’m right.”<br /><br />Gazing out the window she contemplated what it would mean to her if she was right. On one hand it would be a great start to her career here and wonderful to be able to return a young girl to her family. On the other hand, she would no longer have any excuse to be a part of Jon’s life. Despite what he told her this morning, she didn’t believe for a minute that he had any real feelings for her. It was simply circumstances. Once Stephanie was found, he would go back to his life and she would be left to find her way in this new life she was forging for herself. The up side was that she had some wonderful memories to sustain her during the long, lonely nights. <em>Better prepare yourself for goodbye. You know it’s coming. It always does.</em><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 8</span><br /><br />Turning into the laneway, Lindsay got out and opened the gate. Parking, Brian got out and glanced around. “You go check out the beach, I’ll take a look around the house.”<br /><br />Lindsay looked at him in surprise.<br /><br />“If she’s here she might get frightened seeing a strange man approaching her. I think she’ll deal better with you.”<br /><br />Nodding, Lindsay headed towards the water. She didn’t have to go very far. Just beyond the water’s reach sat a girl, her arms wrapped around her knees and her long brown hair floating on the breeze. She looked so forlorn that Lindsay’s heart went out to her instantly. Hesitating, Lindsay debated how best to approach the girl without scaring her.<br /><br />Walking up quietly behind her she spoke softly. “Stephanie?”<br /><br />The girl jumped up and spun around looking for an escape route.<br /><br />“Stephanie, it’s ok. I’m not here to hurt you. My name is Lindsay Chandler. I’m with the crime lab. You’ve had everyone very worried.”<br /><br />Stephanie snorted. “Yeah, right.” Dejected, she plopped back down on the sand.<br /><br />Sitting beside her, Lindsay chose her words carefully. “I can see why you came here. It’s beautiful, quiet, peaceful…a good place to think.” Stephanie nodded. “Steph, sometimes adults can say and do things that don’t make a lot of sense. They say mean things to hurt each other in response to their own pain. They don’t always mean it.”<br /><br />Stephanie turned to look at her with eyes so like her father’s Lindsay heart melted. “You know about the fight?”<br /><br />Lindsay nodded. “Your dad told me.”<br /><br />Stephanie shook her head, “No, do you know about the reason for the fight?”<br /><br />Lindsay hesitated, but decided lying to the girl was not in anyone’s best interest. “Yes.”<br /><br />“So I guess everyone knows now.” She frowned.<br /><br />“I don’t know about everyone. As far as I’m aware the only people who know are the four of us – your mom and dad, you and me. Richie arrived today, but I don’t know if your dad told him….and I don’t know who your mom may have told.”<br /><br />Stephanie grimaced. “Make that six then.” She said cryptically. Before Lindsay could ask who she was referring to she asked another question. “Are my parents going to get divorced?”<br /><br />“I don’t know.” Lindsay answered her honestly. “Is that why you came up here? To stop the fight?”<br /><br />She gave a snort of laughter. “I may be young, but I’m not stupid.” Gazing at Lindsay consideringly she continued. “If Dad told you what’s going on he must trust you. I guess I can too.”<br /><br />Looking back at the water, Stephanie told her story. “I’ve known this was coming for a long time. My parents may think that they hid it from us, but they don’t lie very well. I went into the den early one morning last year and found Dad sleeping on the couch. He tried to tell me that he that he’d been up late writing and had fallen asleep on the couch, but his guitar wasn’t there. After that I think he made sure he slept in one of the guest rooms. There’ve been lots of other little signs. It’s not the divorce that bothers me….lots of my friends parents are divorced. Maybe they’ll both be happy again. It’s the reason behind it. Hearing that fight,…a lot of things suddenly made sense. I could see there was something different in the way Dad looked at Romeo, but I just ignored it. The other night after I ran upstairs I started to think – if not Dad, then who? I realized it must be Sam – he’s an instructor at Mom’s dojo. He’s around a lot when Dad’s away. In fact he was there Thursday night. He even helped me carry a bunch of stuff upstairs.” She shrugged. “He’s a nice enough guy I guess. And Mom does seem to be happier when he’s around. I just can’t believe that Mom did that to Dad….and then to blame him!” She clenched her fists.<br /><br />“I’m sure she had her reasons.”<br /><br />“Maybe.”<br /><br />“Steph, why did you run?” She seemed so calm about the situation Lindsay couldn’t figure it out.<br /><br />She sighed. “I needed some time to think everything through, sort out my feelings. And I guess I wanted to force them to bring everything out into the open.” She shrugged again. “I just had to get away for awhile and I knew they’d never let me go by myself, so….I left. How did you find me anyway?”<br /><br />“We’d looked everywhere else we could think of. Then I finally got Becky to break and tell me.”<br /><br />Stephanie looked confused. “But I didn’t tell her where I was going.”<br /><br />“She told me you wanted to listen to the waves and needed a ride. This place seemed to fit.”<br /><br />“You’re good.” She looked impressed.<br /><br />Lindsay smiled. “Lucky guess.” Stephanie smiled back. “Are you ready to go home now?”<br /><br />The smile faded and she nodded. “I guess.” Rising she turned towards the house and stopped when she saw a man standing several yards away.<br /><br />“It’s ok, that’s Brian – my boss.”<br /><br />Lindsay hung back as the young girl trudged slowly to the car. She pulled out her cell phone and dialed.<br /><br />“Is she there? Do you have her?” He asked anxiously.<br /><br />“Yes, I’ve got her. I’m bringing her home.”<br /><br />“Oh, thank God! What the hell was she doing there anyway?” Now that the fear was alleviated, the parental anger came through.”<br /><br />“Jon, she knows everything. She’s been expecting something to blow for a long time. She’s a very bright girl, but she’s still just a girl trying to deal with a major crisis in her life. I think she just wanted to make you both sit up and take notice. Sit down and talk to her. Be patient with her.”<br /><br />“I’ll try.” He promised. “I’ll see you when you get here.”<br /><br /><br /><br />On the way back to New Jersey, Lindsay tried to make conversation. Although Stephanie answered politely, it was obvious that she didn’t really want to talk. As they turned into the driveway Lindsay could see Stephanie visibly brace herself for what was to come. Pulling out a business card, Lindsay wrote her home number on the back.<br /><br />“Stephanie, if it becomes too much and you need a break, or just need someone to talk to….I’m here.”<br /><br />She nodded. “Thanks.”<br /><br />As the car came to a stop the front door of the house opened and everyone came pouring out. As Jon crushed his daughter to him, his eyes caught Lindsay’s. <em>Thank you</em> he mouthed and she nodded swallowing her tears.<br /><br />Releasing Stephanie to her mother, Jon approached the car. Shaking hands with Brian he expressed his appreciation for all their help. Turning to Lindsay he reached for her. Reading his intentions in his eyes she gave him a warning look, shooting a glance in Brian’s direction. He smiled and took her hand. “Thank you for bringing me my daughter back.” Then, unable to help himself he pulled her into his arms for a hug. “I’ll call you later.” He whispered. She just smiled. She didn’t notice Richie watching closely.<br /><br />As they drove away Lindsay wondered if she’d seen him for the last time.<br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 9</span><br /><br />After finishing the final report, Lindsay packed up and headed home. She was looking forward to a quick meal, a hot bath, and curling up on the couch to watch TV or maybe read a few chapters of that new romance novel she’d picked up last week.<br /><br />She’d read the same page three times and still didn’t know what it said when there was a knock on her door. Afraid to hope she rose slowly to check the peep hole. Smiling, she opened the door. Her greeting went unsaid as he scooped her up in his arms and spun her around in his exuberance.<br /><br />Laughing, she scolded him. “You nut, put me down!” Chuckling he kissed her firmly before setting on her feet. Releasing her he spun around again before collapsing onto the couch.<br /><br />Shaking her head at his antics she moved to close the door before returning to stand in front of him. Grinning he reached out, grabbed her arm and pulled her down on top of him.<br /><br />“Have I told you how wonderful you are?” he asked as he ran his hands down her back.<br /><br />Crossing her arms on his chest she got comfortable. “I really didn’t do anything. I only found her first because I knew more about you that the other members of the team. They would have found her without me.”<br /><br />“Maybe, but I doubt that they would have talked to her like you did. I want to thank you for that too. You helped her more than you know.”<br /><br />“She told you about that?”<br /><br />He nodded, then wrapped his arms around her and squeezed. Gasping for breath she looked down at him. “What’s with you tonight?”<br /><br />“For the first time in a long time I feel…..free, like a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders. Everything is out in the open and we’re working things out, and best of all, I’ve found you. I’m actually looking forward to the future again. Particularly the immediate future.” His voice dropped an octave with his last statement sending shivers down her spine even as his hands slid down her back and his thumbs slid under the hem of her nightgown to graze the bottom of her butt cheeks, pleased to find that she was naked beneath the gown. If that and the unmistakable gleam in his eye wasn’t enough to convince her, she could hardly ignore the blunt evidence pressing against her stomach.<br /><br />Even though her stomach had sunk at the phrase “working things out”, she couldn’t bring herself to deny him. If this was to be their last time together, so be it.<br /><br />With that thought in mind she let go and let her senses take over. Shifting upwards slightly she captured his lips with hers. Sliding her tongue along his bottom lip she grazed it with her teeth before sucking it into her mouth. Deciding a little torture wouldn’t hurt him she rocked her hips against him. She was rewarded with a sucked in breath and his hands sliding fully under her nightgown to cup her buttocks and knead them lightly rocking her more firmly against him. When he moved to roll her under him she resisted and pushed him back. Raising slightly she grasped the bottom of his t-shirt and started to pull it up. She only got it as far as his shoulders before she got distracted by all that bare skin in front of her. Leaning down she traced his ribs first with her fingertip and then with her tongue. Breath rasping in his throat he lifted his shoulders enough to get his shirt the rest of the way off, and then decided that turn about was fair play.<br /><br />Turning his hands he lifted her nightgown until she was forced to raise up and let him remove it entirely. Returning immediately to her exploration of his chest she played with his nipples while he fought for control. Reaching down he grasped her legs and pulled her knees up on either side of his hips. With her now open to him he let his fingers trace down the crevice between the firm globes of flesh that he had gripped earlier, down along her wet cleft, exploring and teasing as he went. Now it was her turn to gasp for breath. Pausing she savoured the feelings coursing through her in the wake of his fingers. Suddenly she arched and she threw back her head as he found her opening and speared her with first one then two fingers. Frantic, she reached for the button at his waistband. Quickly opening it and sliding the zipper down, she released him from his jeans. The tables were turned again as she took him in her hand. She could feel the blood pulsing through him. Once again she was fascinated by the feel of velvet on steel, the tip was so soft she long to touch it with her tongue. She started to bend down, but he grabbed her shoulders preventing her. Glancing up she saw the sweat gathered on his upper lip and forehead. “No.” He rasped. “I’m too far gone for that. I need to be inside you.”<br /><br />Thrilled at her ability to arouse him, she kissed him deeply and slid her lower body over his. Unable to wait any long he grabbed her hips, positioned himself and thrusting upwards as he lowered her, buried himself to the hilt. Gasping at his sudden entry Lindsay held motionless, letting her body adjust to his possession. When her breathing had calmed enough to move, she slowly sat up enjoying the feel of his shaft sliding even deeper into her. The sound of his breath groaning in his chest had her smiling in triumph. Missing the glint of his blue eyes beneath his lowered lids, she wasn’t prepared when he held her hips down and thrust upward hard, once, twice, three times before pausing to let them both catch their breath. Grinning at the helpless look on her face Jon slid his hands up to cup her breasts and tease the hard peaks. Leaning back she rocked her hips then moved up and down first slowly then faster and faster until the sensations overwhelmed her and she went over the edge. He gave a throttled shout and followed her, catching her as she collapsed on him. Settling her comfortably on his chest he held her close as they both dozed off still intimately joined.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />The next morning as they were getting ready to leave her apartment Jon turned to her. “Oh, by the way, Richie’s staying and we’re going to do some writing, and these sessions can run pretty late, so I may not get a chance to get away to see you for a few days.”<br /><br />“No problem.” She swallowed around the lump in her throat and pasted a smile on her face.<br /><br />“Really?”<br /><br />“Hey, when the creative muse hits you’ve got to ride it for as long as it lasts.”<br /><br />“Wow, you really do understand.” He gave her a big hug and a sweet tender kiss. “Thank you.”Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2233992774788831133.post-35160781955474556122008-11-03T20:04:00.000-08:002008-11-04T13:12:11.617-08:00Chapter 4He turned and stared at her. “You already know don’t you?” He accused.<br /><br />“No I don’t.” she replied quickly. “There was a problem with Romeo’s sample and they had to repeat the test. I haven’t seen the results yet. Besides we were comparing the samples with a hair we found in Stephanie’s room, not comparing them to you.<br /><br />“Then how did you know that it’s Romeo I want checked?” His voice broke at the end.<br /><br />She blushed rather sheepishly. “This is going to sound very immature and foolish, but I have quite the imagination and I can count.” She shrugged “Chock it up to a mystery lover’s mind. When it was announced that Dorothea was pregnant and when she was due, something didn’t sit quite right with me. I did some figuring and checking your tour schedule realized that in order for the dates to work either you’re very potent and got lucky the very minute she and kids arrived to join you on tour in England or…..” her voice drifted off.<br /><br />He made a sound that was not quite a laugh. “You’re quicker than I am. It took me months to figure that out.”<br /><br />There was silence for a moment the she cautioned him. “Are you sure you really want to know Jon? This is something that you can’t take back. Think about the consequences, if it turns out not in your favour, not just for you but for him as well.” She looked at him closely for a moment “Will knowing for sure change how you feel about him? How you treat him? Does he deserve this?”<br /><br />The look on his face melted Lindsay heart and very nearly brought her out of her chair to wrap her arms around him and just hold him.<br /><br />“He’s a beautiful little boy and I love him. But every time I look at him I wonder. It’s already affecting the way I treat him. I’m hoping that if I know for sure, even if he’s not mine, I can at least quit wondering and just love him for who he is.”<br /><br />Silence while she studied him. “You’re sure then?”<br /><br />“Yes.” No hesitation. “I’ve thought about this for a long time, but there was never the right opportunity. Now there is.”<br /><br />She sighed “Ok then. Do you want to wait here while I go to the lab or do you want me to call you with the results?”<br /><br />“I’ll wait.”<br /><br />Lindsay left her office and headed down the hall toward the lab. She wondered if she was doing the right thing. She was torn. Despite what he said was he truly prepared for what may come out of this? On the other hand he was entitled to know.<br /><br />When she reached the lab, the lab tech, Kevin, was frowning down at some papers on the table top in front of him.<br /><br />“Hey Kevin.”<br /><br />“Oh, hi Lindsay. I was just about to come looking for you.”<br /><br />“Oh? What’s up?”<br /><br />“It’s this case that you’re working on. As you know I’ve been comparing the family members to that hair you found in the girl’s room.”<br /><br />Lindsay nodded. “I understand there was a problem with the youngest boy’s sample”<br /><br />Kevin waved that aside “Yeah, but that was nothing. We got a clean report on the retest. Or at least I thought we did.” He frowned again.<br /><br />“Is there a problem with the test?” she asked.<br /><br />“Either that or a problem with the results.” He answered cryptically.<br /><br />“What do you mean?” She stepped closer to look at the papers.<br /><br />“Well, we know that the unknown hair is from a male. I checked it against all the samples with no luck….until I compared it to the little guy’s. That’s when it got weird.”<br /><br />“What do you mean weird?” she asked.<br /><br />“Well, it’s not a match but there are seven alleles in common.”<br /><br />“You’re sure?”<br /><br />He nodded. “I ran it three times.”<br /><br /><em>Oh God Jon, I’m so sorry</em>. “Thanks Kevin. Can I have a copy of everything for the file please?” She hoped her smile didn’t look as forced as it felt.<br /><br />Walking back to her office she wondered how she was going to break the news. Opening the door she found him pacing again. Upon seeing her he stopped. The stark hope and fear mixed in his face almost brought her to tears.<br /><br />Sitting down she opened the file and pulled out several sheets of paper. After looking them over for a few minutes she looked up at him and again asked. “Are you sure Jon?”<br /><br />His answering “yes” was barely a whisper and she could see his Adam’s apple bob as he swallowed heavily.<br /><br />“Ok, here’s what we’ve found. The hair we found in Stephanie’s room is from a male. It’s not a match to any of the males of your family,” she hesitated.<br /><br />“I hear a but in there.” He grated hoarsely.<br /><br />She took a deep breath. “But, it has thirteen alleles in common with Romeo.” She paused again searching his face. At his blank look she explained. “That means a first degree relative…a parent.”<br /><br />His face fell. “But it doesn’t match mine.” It was a statement.<br /><br />“No, it doesn’t. Jon, I’m so sorry.” As she watched him fall into the chair and his face crumple she gave up all attempts to maintain a professional distance. The man was in obvious pain and the woman in her took over from the scientist. She came around the desk in a rush and wrapped her arms around his shoulders. He leaned against her for a few minutes, then, visibly pulling himself together he sat up and rubbed his hands over his face as she let him go.<br /><br />“Thanks” was all he said as he rose from the chair and left her office and the building.<br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 5</span><br /><br />She was still thinking about him when she entered her apartment several hours later. She had spent the rest of the day questioning Stephanie’s friends – with their parents standing by – and had come up empty. Although she was pretty sure one of them knew something. She’d seen the telltale twitch when Becky tried to lie. She just couldn’t bring herself to come down hard on someone so young. She was hoping that her parents would push her to tell the truth. If something didn’t pop by tomorrow, Lindsay was going to have to get tough.<br /><br />After a thorough Pilates workout she made herself some chicken stir fry, sat down to eat and try to focus on the case and not the devastated man who had walked out of her office earlier. <em>If I was an upset thirteen year old girl where would I go?</em><br /><br />No matter how hard she tried she couldn’t come up with anything. She kept seeing Jon’s face when she had given him the news that his wife had betrayed him and his son wasn’t his. <em>Stop it! The man is a rock star. You are a nobody. He’s got lots of people to help him through this very private matter. The only that you can do to help is find his daughter, so FOCUS!</em><br /><br />The knock at her door startled her. No one except the office knew where she lived and she hadn’t met any of her neighbours yet. <em>And tonight would not be the best time either.</em>Reluctantly she dragged herself off the couch and over to the door. Looking through the peep hole she froze.<br /><br />Opening the door she looked at him leaning against the door frame, his blonde hair tousled.<br /><br />“How did you find out where I live?”<br /><br />“Julie likes me.” He smiled crookedly. <em>With a smile like that what woman breathing wouldn’t?</em><br /><br />The aroma surrounding him wasn’t cologne. “You’re drunk.” It wasn’t an accusation. After what he’d been through today if anyone deserved it he did.<br /><br />“Just a little. Not as drunk as I’d like to be.” Although he wasn’t quite slurring he was a little unsteady on his feet. He walked an almost straight line to the couch before collapsing onto it.<br /><br />Closing the door, she walked over towards him. The closer she got the faster her heart beat.<br /><br />He patted the cushion beside him. “Sit down here and talk to me.”<br /><br />Sitting she looked at him. “Jon, what are you doing here?”<br /><br />Ignoring her question he asked one of his own. “What colour do you call your hair? I’ve been trying to decide all day.”<br /><br />“It’s brown.” She answered dryly.<br /><br />“No, it’s more than that. I thought so too at first, but when you turn a certain way and the light hits it, I see flashes of red. It fascinates me to watch it. It makes me want to run my hands through it and see if it’s as soft and warm as it looks.” And he did.<br /><br />“Jon” she whispered warningly.<br /><br />He ignored her. “And your eyes. I could drown in them. I can’t decide who’s are darker, yours or mine.”<br /><br />The look in his eyes made the sweat start to run down her spine and she swallowed heavily before answering. “Yours.” He smiled. And leaned closer.<br /><br />“And your lips. The way you lick them and bit your lower lip when you’re thinking hard,” His thumb brushed back and forth across her lower lip. “Makes me want to see if they taste as good as I think they will.”<br /><br />The first touch of his lips stopped the breath in her throat. If she hadn’t been sitting down she would have fallen as her knees literally went weak. <em>What are you doing?! Stay professional!</em> The feel of his tongue sliding between her teeth to explore drove all thought from her mind.<br /><br />As he pulled her closer against his hard body and his hand traced a path from her cheek to cup her breast she surfaced enough to realize she had to stop this now. Gathering her strength she pulled back enough to ask. “Jon, what are you doing?”<br /><br />He smiled “I thought that was pretty obvious.”<br /><br />“Ok, stupid question. How about this one then: <strong>why</strong> are you doing this?”<br /><br />He stopped, looked down at her for a minute, then sat up and buried his head in his hands.<br /><br />Her senses howling in protest when he moved away she sat up and watched him.<br /><br />“Jon?”<br /><br />“It’s all my fault.”<br /><br />“What is?” she asked cautiously.<br /><br />“Romeo, Stephanie, everything.” He started rocking back and forth. “If I had found a regular line of work, if I had been home more, none of this would have happened.”<br /><br />“Who filled your head with that bullshit?” She demanded.<br /><br />“That was what Dorothea told me when I confronted her today about Romeo. She blames me for Stephanie too. The argument we had was about my suspicions about Romeo and the state of my marriage. Stephanie heard me accuse her mother of cheating and Dorothea throwing it back that why shouldn’t she when I care more about myself and my music than I do my family. I heard Steph go running up the stairs crying. She wouldn’t talk to me. Dorothea’s right…it <strong>is</strong> all my fault.”<br /><br />“Horse pucky!” Lindsay retorted. When Jon looked at her in surprise she continued. “If you had found a regular line of work you would have been miserable. You would have been less than half the man you are, and somehow I doubt that Dorothea would have stuck around for that. Also, whether you think it’s bull or not, there are millions of people around the world whose lives you have affected with your music, myself included, not to mention your charitable work which you wouldn’t have been able to do without the money your stardom has brought you. Believe me Jon, the world is a much better place because of you and your music. As for your not being home causing her to cheat…give me a break. She knew what she was getting into when she married you. Hell, I bet you’ve been home more in the last ten years than you were in all the years before, am I right?” He nodded. “Ok, so that goes against everything she said. In fact she was faithful when you were away, but not when you were home. Besides, no one forced her to cheat. She made that decision all on her own and needs to take responsibility for her own actions.”<br /><br />He just shook his head. Lindsay framed his face with both hands and forced him to look at her in the eye. “Jon, it’s <strong>not</strong> all your fault!”<br /><br />He smiled “Beautiful, bright and compassionate. Where have you been hiding yourself?”<br /><br />Once again he lowered his mouth to hers, sending her pulse back into orbit. Urging her back against the couch he lowered himself onto her as his hands went exploring again. <em>You’ve got to stop </em>her inner voice kept telling her. <em>But when will you ever have a chance like this again?</em> Her heart kept asking. <em>But he’s a married man for crying out loud!</em> That thought had her fighting her way back to sanity. She turned her face to the side.<br /><br />“Jon, stop” she gasped, then gasped again when he just changed his target and slid his mouth across her cheek and down her neck to suck gently on her earlobe.<br /><br />“Why should I?” he rasped.<br /><br />“Because you’re married.” She managed.<br /><br />“Not in anyway that matters.” He continued his exploration of her neck as his hand rose between them to cup her breast once again.<br /><br />“But, your wife.” She trailed off and focused on breathing as his clever fingers teased her nipple into a hard peak.<br /><br />“She hasn’t been that to me in a very long time.” He assured her.<br /><br />She made one last attempt to appease her conscience. “But….”<br /><br />He interrupted her before she could finish. “But nothing. Please Lindsay, I need you!” His need finished what his mouth and fingers had started. Jon Bon Jovi is making love to me! But what if I can’t please him? Was her last conscious thought before she was drowned in a sea of sensuality.<br /><br />He sensed her surrender and proceeded to exert himself to please her. She didn’t even feel him removing her t-shirt and bra and only realized she was half naked when his hot mouth captured one nipple while his fingers teased the other. First he just kissed it and swirled his tongue around it. When he had her arching beneath him and almost desperate he finally took the entire nipple and aureole deep in his mouth and sucked. First lightly, then harder as her fingers laced through his hair and held him tightly to her. Just when she thought she couldn’t take anymore, he lifted his head slightly. Her protest died in her throat as he moved slightly to her other breast to give it the same treatment.<br /><br />As his mouth worshipped her breasts his hand slid lower to glide around her ribcage, one fingertip gently circling and dipping into her navel causing her to suck in a deep breath. When his mouth left her breasts and started to travel down toward her navel, her hands dropped to his shoulders only to encounter his shirt. Grabbing handfuls, she tugged upward. Pausing briefly, he helped her get his shirt off and groaned softly as her hands did some exploring of her own.<br /><br />The only tense moment came when she felt her pants and panties slide down her legs and she realized she was completely naked to his gaze. She froze and tried to cover herself. He grabbed her hands, and held her eyes with his. “You’re beautiful.” Searching his gaze she saw no deception – he really did think she was beautiful. Nodding slightly she stopped fighting him and found a better use for her hands – ensuring that he was as naked as she. <em>Wow! This is better than any gutter pic!</em><br />She lost all train of thought – and her breath – when she felt Jon’s hand move from her knee up the inside of her leg. Just short of his goal he stopped and smoothed his hand back to her knee before starting upward again. He did this several times until she was ready to scream – or grab his hand and put it where she was now desperate to have it. He must have sensed her state as he chuckled and moved that little bit higher and caused her to sigh in anticipation. Very slowly he traced her soft flesh, gently separating the layers until he could invade her just slightly with one fingertip. She gasped as he slowly circled her opening and he recaptured her lips. As his tongue invaded her mouth his finger slowly invaded her other humid orifice and she was sure that her heart had stopped.<br /><br />She had never felt anything like this before. <em>The man certainly understands the concept of foreplay!</em> Not wanting to miss out on anything as this may never happen again, she moved her hands down to skate over his buttocks and finally to slide around and grip him firmly. It was his turn to fight to breathe as she explored him, one hand sliding slowly up and down his shaft, while her other hand cupped his sac squeezing slightly to feel the two round spheres inside and gently roll them against each other. He groaned and she felt him shudder before he abruptly nudged her legs further apart, twisted his torso and replaced his fingers with his lips and tongue. Within seconds she was drenched and writhing beneath him. As his tongue dove deep her back arched until she thought it would break. She would have screamed, but she didn’t have any breath.<br /><br />When she could take no more she tried to tell him. Not being able to speak she tried pulling on his arms, but he ignored her. Finally, she punched his shoulder as hard as she could – which wasn’t very hard as her muscles had turned to mush. He chuckled, but moved up kissing her breasts again on his way back to her mouth and wedging his hips between her legs.<br /><br />He entered her so slowly she felt every burrowing inch and was sure that her heart would burst. She felt full of him and had never felt so connected to another human being in her life. He held still for a few minute savouring the feel of her tight around him. When he started to move it was like lightning shooting from her core to her fingertips and out the top of her head. She moved with him like they had done this a hundred times before. But it wasn’t enough.<br /><br />“Hold me tighter” he rasped out.<br /><br />Complying, she raised her knees, wrapped her legs around his hips and held on. Groaning he thrust harder, faster, deeper.<br /><br />“Yes, yes, oh my God YES!!” she screamed as the final wave hit her and she fought to stay conscious. He groaned again and she felt him burst inside her. She held him even tighter while he shuddered and collapsed on her.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 6<br /></span><br />When Lindsay awoke early the next morning she was immediately conscious of two things. One was that she felt more relaxed, peaceful, and, well, happier than she had in a very long time. The second was that there was a warm weight all along her back and over her waist. When she tried to move, the weight over her waist tightened. It took her a few minutes to realize that the first fact was a direct result of the second. It took a few minutes more for her pleasure laden brain to remind her saner self who it was she was sharing a bed with.<br /><br />As the enormity of what she had done hit her she felt her face get hot and her stomach sink. <em>What have you done? You slept with a married man!</em> Knowing she couldn’t remain still, and not ready to face Jon yet she slipped out from under his arm careful not wake him, hesitating as she discovered something else – she had aching muscles in places she didn’t know she had muscles. Glancing at him as she rose from the bed, her heart swelled at the peaceful picture he made. Grabbing her robe she headed for the kitchen before she did something she’d regret.<br /><br />Coffee in hand she stood gazing blindly out the window contemplating the events of the previous evening. A shiver ran down her spine in remembrance of the incredible pleasure he had brought her – multiple times. No matter how hard she berated herself for being the “other woman” or worried that he had used her for some sort of revenge, deep down inside was a part of her that couldn’t really feel remorse. She may never feel that kind of pleasure again.<br /><br />Deep in thought, she didn’t hear him come up behind her. Sliding an arm around her waist, he pulled her back against him and kissed her neck just below her ear. “Morning.” Taking her cup from her he took a swallow before handing it back. Wrapping both arms around her he looked out over her head at the view outside her window. She allowed herself to lean back and savour being held by him for just a few minutes more, breathing deeply to take in his scent before steeling herself and pulling away from him.<br /><br />He frowned at her. “What’s wrong?”<br /><br />“I’m sorry Jon, but I can’t do this.” Her voice wavered.<br /><br />“Can’t do what?”<br /><br />“I can’t be the other woman, I can’t be your revenge against your wife. Last night was wonderful, and I will never forget it, but I have to be able to look myself in the mirror.”<br /><br />Running his hand through his hair, he sighed. “Is there more coffee?”<br /><br />She nodded “In the kitchen, I’ll get you a cup.”<br /><br />He stopped her and waved at the couch. “Sit down, I can get it.”<br /><br />When he returned she was sitting in a chair. Smiling wryly he sat on the end of the couch nearest her. They sat in silence for a few minutes as he considered his coffee and searched for the right words. The brave front she was putting on almost cracked as she waited to see how he would say goodbye. <em>What did you expect, that he would jump to deny what last night meant? He could have any woman he wanted, you were just handy.</em><br /><br />Finally, he took a deep breath and looked at her. “I get the feeling that you think that last night was just some drunken form of revenge on my part.” She nodded, and would have spoken, but he held up his hand to stop her. “No. Let me explain. For the past three years I have been living a lie. Even my closest friends don’t know how bad it is. My mother has an idea, but no one knows why. Except you. For three years I have been pretending that my marriage is rock solid. We made the obligatory public appearances, posing as the happy couple in public. But I’ve been sleeping alone. We share a house and the kids, but that’s where it ends. We try to put a good face on it for the kids, but it’s just an act. Everyone thinks the songs from Lost Highway are all about Richie and David and what they’ve been through, but actually there’s lot of me in there. My private life has been a cold empty shell of an existence. Dorothea doesn’t mean to, but she makes me feel like an intruder in my own home, that I’m not welcome there anymore, and I’m not needed. When Stephanie disappeared after that fight, I was at the end of my rope. Then you came in. When I saw your reaction when you saw me at the door I was afraid that you were going to be just another fan, fawning all over me and trying to trip me and beat me to the floor.” He smiled. “You were being so professional and distant your church comment took me a minute to figure out. You were the first woman I’d met in a long time that interested me on first sight. You were respectful and compassionate and seemed to really care about my feelings. It had been a long time since I felt that.”<br /><br />He paused to sip his coffee. “I debated a long time before asking you about the tests. I still don’t know what it is about you that slipped under my guard and made me want to spill all my secrets.” He chuckled “I told myself that I had been celibate for so long that my brains had all gone south.” Lindsay smiled in return. Then he sobered. “After I left your office yesterday afternoon, I went right home and confronted Dorothea. It wasn’t pretty. Then I went out to the Inn and started drinking. But my mind was spinning. My self confidence was shit, I didn’t want to be alone, but I couldn’t stomach the thought of explaining everything to Obie or anyone else. I wasn’t ready for that. BUT I WAS SO DAMN LONELY! I knew where I wanted to be, but I knew it wasn’t fair to you if the only reason I came was because I was lonely, and more than a little horny. But I had been so cold for so long, I couldn’t resist warming myself at your fire, if only for a little while. I was going to be the big Rock Star and sweep you off your feet.” He snorted. “Then you asked me why I was here. You were no lusting fan that would tell me whatever I wanted to hear to get into my pants, you were treating me like just another man who was trying to get into <strong>your</strong> pants Maybe it was the alcohol, maybe it was just that I couldn’t take it anymore, but suddenly I had to let it all out. When you responded with support and real caring, I couldn’t walk away. I needed to be comforted. I needed to be loved.” He gazed at her with real feeling in his eyes. “I got more than I bargained for. Much more.”<br /><br />He paused again. “I don’t know where this is going. I can’t tell you that it’s going to be easy. I only know that last night I felt truly alive for the first time in a very long time, and that my feelings are real. I know we don’t know each other that well, but I want to. I want to learn everything about you – everything you think, everything you feel. I want to explore every inch of your body. I want you to explore every inch of mine. I don’t know where this will lead, I just know that I want to find out. What about you? Are you willing to take the risk with me?”<br /><br />The tears clogging her throat made it difficult to speak. “What about Dorothea, the kids, the band, the media?”<br /><br />“Whatever happens between you and I, my marriage is over. I can’t keep living this way. Dorothea, the kids, and I will have to work it out. As for the band, they’ll stand behind me. In fact anything that will make me even a little less miserable will have their full support. And the media can go suck eggs. I’ve lived through worse.”<br /><br />Still unsure she was prepared to take such a huge step she compromised. “Why don’t we focus on finding Stephanie right now, and then we’ll see what’s what?”<br /><br />He let out a breath and nodded. “I guess I’ll have to take what I can get – for now.”<br /><br />Standing, he grabbed her hand and pulled her out of her chair. Wrapping his arms around her he grinned. “You’re not going to try to keep me at a distance until then are you?” He pushed against her suggestively.<br /><br />She laughed. “I don’t think I could if I tried.” As he leaned down to her she lifted her face and met him halfway. She was becoming addicted to the way he could steal her senses with just a kiss.<br /><br />Lifting his head he gazed at her speculatively. “I need a shower. How about you?”<br /><br />Recognizing the gleam in his eyes she smiled. “You wash my back and I’ll wash yours.”<br /><br />“What about your front. Don’t I get to wash that too?”<br /><br />“Maybe. If you’re very good”<br /><br />Laughing, he let her lead the way to the bathroom. Undressing took no time at all since all he’d put on was his jeans. It was a wonder Lindsay even heard his speech with all that bare skin distracting her. In self preservation she focused on getting the water temperature right rather the sound of his zipper being opened and his pants hitting the floor.<br /><br />Standing up straight she was startled to feel his hands on her shoulders pulling off her robe. As it fell to the floor she felt his fingertip outlining the butterfly tattoo on the back of her hip. “How come I didn’t notice this last night? I must have been drunk.”<br /><br />Chuckling, she stepped into the shower. Grinning, he followed her. As she raised her hands to lift her hair to the spray he picked up the shampoo bottle. Pouring some into his palm, he pushed her hands away. As he worked the lather through her hair he also massaged her scalp. She lowered her forehead to his chest and groaned at the feelings he evoked. Moving down to her neck he gently tipped her head back and lightly touched his lips to hers. Moving back before she could respond his hands continued their journey spreading lather in their wake. When he reached her breasts, he circled them slowly, over and over until her hard nipples peeked through the lather. Smiling at his handiwork he bent and touched just the tip of his tongue to the tight peaks. Ignoring her gasp, he straightened again and let his hands move down to her rib cage. Turning her he swept lather across her shoulder blades and down to her waist. Taking each arm in turn between both of his he stroked his fingers from shoulders to wrists. Reaching her hand, he laced his fingers tightly with hers, and flexed. She never knew her hands could be so sensitive. Again he didn’t give her time to react, but moved on. Reaching for more soap he knelt behind her and started at her waist lightly caressing her buttocks before bending and placing a kiss on the butterfly. She shuddered despite the heat of the water. Turning her to face him he took one firm thigh between his palms and ran his hands down to her ankle before carefully washing her foot. As he repeated the procedure with her other leg, her pulsed quickened and her breathing shortened. There was only one area left. Still kneeling, he gently separated her thighs until he could fit his hand in between. Slowly working lather through her curls, he teased the soft folds that were waiting for him. Leaning forward he opened her to his exploring tongue. Here he took his time, searching out every crevice noting by her reactions which spots brought her the most pleasure. Finally his focus turned the ultra sensitive spot at the top of her cleft. Holding it lightly with his teeth he flicked it with his tongue until she was all but screaming. Then he sucked, gently at first and then harder until she screamed his name and would have collapsed if he hadn’t been holding her up. Standing again he held her under the water rinsing off the last of the lather and bringing her back to earth.<br /><br />Finally raising her head she looked up at him. He grinned smugly and she decided it was time to get even. Reaching for the soap she warned him. “My turn.”<br /><br />Washing his hair was a little tricky since even though he was only average height, he was still six inches taller than her. As much as she would have liked to take more time running her fingers through his hair she knew her arms wouldn’t last that long. The upside was that she could spend as much time as she wanted exploring the rest of his body starting with his strong neck. When she reached his shoulders she really took her time. Stroking down his arms she raised his hand to mouth taking each finger in turn deep and lightly scraping her teeth down the sensitive sides before nibbling on the tips and placing a kiss in his palm. Feeling him tremble from her touch was a heady feeling and made her ache to do more. Coming back to his chest she placed her hands flat then curled her fingers into his pectoral muscles. Then, deciding what’s good for the goose is good for the gander she proceeded to tease his nipples like he did hers. When the tips stood out like nails she could hold back no longer and leaned forward to circle them with her tongue. She could see his chest rising and falling faster and faster as he struggled to take a deep breath. Smiling at her ability to arouse him, she took his nipples into her mouth and sucked lightly. First one then the other. She would have liked to linger there but there was more yet to discover. Turning him, she explored the muscles in his back, running her finger down the groove along his spine. Reaching his waist she ran her palms slowly over his buttocks Assets indeed she chuckled to herself. Turning him again she knelt and smoothed the lather down his legs massaging the hard muscles as she went. Finally, she raised her eyes and examined that part of him that had given her such incredible pleasure the night before. Already hard, it stood almost straight out from his body. When she took it in her hand it felt like velvet covered steel. As her fingertip circled the very tip she could sense as much as feel every muscle in his body tighten. His breath was coming like a racehorse now and his hands were clenching and unclenching as he fought to let her have her way and not grab her. Unable to help herself she leaned forward and touched the tip of her tongue to the tip of him. He jerked in reaction, but she wasn’t going to let him go now. Cupping his sac with her other hand she ran her tongue from base to tip several times before finally sucking him into her mouth as deep as she could. He was now alternating between moaning and groaning. Just as she was settling into a rhythm he ground out between clenched teeth “Enough”.<br /><br />Drawing back she looked up at him. “But I’m not finished yet.”<br /><br />“Oh yes you are.” He grabbed her arms and raised her to her feet. Bending down he captured her mouth like he was trying to devour her. At the same time his hands were running all over her body, finding all her pleasure spots until she wrapped her arms around his neck and undulated her body against him. Reaching down he checked to see that she was ready. Finding her wet and opened to him he lifted her and stepped forward until her back met the sweaty tile. Raising one knee to his hip he moved until he could nudge into her. Gasping through the kiss Lindsay tightened her arms and lifted her other leg until she could wrap them around his waist. With one quick thrust he was buried to the hilt. They both groaned. Grabbing her waist he moved her up and down on him, slowly at first and then faster and faster until the peak was upon them and she threw her head back and screamed.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2233992774788831133.post-11371491884737972222008-11-03T16:03:00.000-08:002008-11-04T13:11:02.391-08:00Chapter 1<em>I hope I’m doing the right thing</em> she thought to herself as she gazed out the window of the car. Leaving her home, even her country to try to make a new start seemed like a good idea a few weeks ago, but now that she’d actually done it, she was having second thoughts. The one thing that she was sure about was her new job. She’d worked hard, going back to school at 35 to become a CSI. It had taken 3 ½ long years, but she’d done it. Now here she was in New Jersey of all places and on her way to her first crime scene. As she watched the scenery passing by she thought about her new apartment that had a great view of the New York skyline….and was only slightly more than she could really afford….good thing it was a safe neighbourhood with a great park nearby…she couldn’t afford a gym membership and she’d fought too hard to feel good about the way she looked to let it all go to pot now.<br /><br />The car started turning into a paved driveway and she turned her mind to what she was about to face. All her partner had told her was that it was a potential kidnapping that need to be handled quickly and quietly, with the utmost discretion. That definitely had her curiosity going, and the estate they were entering through a locked gate in the wall surrounding it just added to it. The house they pulled up to kind of reminded her of a French chateau and her mind stopped for a moment. <em>You’re wrong. Just because you’re in New Jersey you’ve got Bon Jovi on the brain. Get real!</em> She told herself sternly. Now was not the time to start daydreaming about things that would never happen to someone like her.<br /><br />As they climbed the steps and entered the front door she couldn’t help but take a good look around. She told herself that she was just doing her job and looking for potential evidence, but deep down she knew she really was just taking the opportunity to check out how the other half lived.<br /><br />She heard footsteps approaching and quickly stood up straight and gathered her thoughts and her wits….and promptly lost them when she saw the man who was approaching them.<br /><br />“Lindsay! Are you alright?” asked her partner Brian.<br /><br />“Yes, sorry I was thinking about where to start.” she improvised quickly hoping that Brian wouldn’t notice her flushed face and racing pulse. Get it together Lindsay! You’re here to do a job not act like a star struck teenager!<br /><br />As they walked down the hallway to the den, she couldn’t help but steal a few peaks at the assets of the man they were following…hell, what female could? She never thought she’d ever see it this close and she was going to take full advantage while she could.<br /><br />When they entered the den, a quick look around revealed the distraught woman sitting on a couch, an older couple sitting in matching chairs flanking the couch and slender man standing by the window.<br /><br />“Now Mr. Bongiovi, I know this is difficult, but if you could just walk us through what happened it would really help us” Brian urged gently.<br /><br />“Well, my wife and I were out last evening at a movie premiere in New York and got home quite late. Mrs. Hopkins, our nanny, assured us that the kids were all fine, and sleeping. We were tired and didn’t check on them, we just went to bed. This morning when Stephanie didn’t come down at her usual time for breakfast I went to see if she was alright. She wasn’t in her room. I couldn’t find her anywhere in the house or on the grounds. None of the staff have seen her since last night, and the boys have no idea where she is. We’ve called her friend’s but no one’s seen her. Frankly, I didn’t know what to do next, so I called you.” Came the reply.<br /><br />“So you’re not really sure if she’s went missing this morning or last night” Brian clarified.<br /><br />Lindsay could see a muscle twitch along that sculpted jaw line before he answered “No, not for sure”<br /><br />The worry, fear and pain he was feeling came off him in waves that touched her soft heart and made her long to reach out and comfort him, but she managed to maintain a professional distance.<br /><br />“Would you mind if we have a look around the house and grounds?” Brian asked. Normally, he wouldn’t have bothered to ask, but this wasn’t a normal situation.<br /><br />At the nod of agreement, Brian sent two techs to take a walk around the grounds and check the security cameras. Then he turned to Lindsay.<br /><br />“You’re up rookie.”<br /><br />Knowing this was a test she thought carefully before decided on her first step. Turning she faced the couch. “Would you show me Stephanie’s bedroom please?” she asked the figure huddled at one end. Nodding, Dorothea rose slowly and led the way upstairs.<br /><br />It was a beautiful room full of personality and spoke volumes about the young girl who lived there. Dorothea stood motionless just inside the door. As she walked around inspecting the room Lindsay tried to get her to talk and maybe relax just a little bit.<br /><br />“How old is Stephanie now?” she asked even though she knew the answer.<br /><br />“Thirteen”<br /><br />“What kind of things does she like to do?”<br /><br />“Typical things for her age: shopping, dressing up, listening to music, movies, hanging out with her friends, that kind of thing.”<br /><br />“Anyone new in her group of friends?” As she talked Lindsay slowing walked around the room noting the music and movie star poster on the walls (Hillary Duff, Harry Potter and Aerosmith of all things), the rumpled bed and various articles of clothing strewn on the floor.<br /><br />“Not that I’ve noticed, and she hasn’t mentioned anyone.”<br /><br />“Can you tell if any of her clothes are missing?”<br /><br />“Without going through what’s down in the laundry room, all that I’ve noticed is a pair of jeans and a purple t-shirt”<br /><br />“When was the last time this room was cleaned?”<br /><br />“I’m not really sure; she’s supposed to clean it herself. Half the time she forgets and Melanie will do it for her…she thinks I don’t know” she smiled wryly. “I’d have to check with Melanie, but she usually cleans the upstairs on Thursdays.” It was Saturday.<br /><br />After another circuit of the room collecting fingerprints and stray hairs she found on the bed and windowsill as well as the items of clothing on the floor Lindsay started for the door. Something was bothering her though and she stopped and looked around again. Finally it hit her. There was no hair brush or other typical toiletry items that a 13 yr old would normally have in abundance. Saying nothing she turned again and headed back downstairs.<br /><br />Standing back as they walked back into the den she watched the look that passed between husband and wife. <em>Hmmmm, something’s a little off here.</em><br /><br />“Would it be possible to get fingerprints and DNA samples from everyone who’s been in the house in the last 24 hrs?” she asked the room in general. At the raised eyebrows she quickly explained “it will help when we sort the evidence to eliminate that of the people who belong here.” In response to the nods, she opened her kit and started the collection process.<br /><br />“Mr. O’Brien, Mr. and Mrs. B, when did you arrive?” she asked. Brian turned to her quickly. “Do you know them?” he questioned a little harshly.<br /><br />“I’ve never met them, but you could say we belong to the same church.” She smiled to herself.<br /><br />“I didn’t know you were catholic.” Brian responded with some surprise.<br /><br />“I’m not” she replied. “It’s not that kind of church.”<br /><br />“What kind of church is it then?” he asked curious.<br /><br />“Well, it’s kind of an international group of like minded people.”<br /><br />“How do you know that these people are part of it?”<br /><br />“Because Jon is the leader” she replied. Glancing around the room Brian saw everyone smile slightly in confirmation of her statements.<br /><br />“In answer to your question dear, Jon called us this morning and John and I arrived about 9:00am.” Carol Bongiovi stated.<br /><br />“And I arrived about 15 minutes later.” Obie added.<br /><br />Lindsay nodded in acknowledgement as she moved to the sofa with her ink and swabs.<br /><br />“I know this is a difficult question, but…did either of you have an argument with Stephanie yesterday, or did anything happen that might have upset her?” she asked looking up in time to catch the look that passed between the two parents. <em>Definitely something off here.</em><br /><br />“Do you think she ran away?” Jon asked.<br /><br />“Just trying to cover all possibilities.” she responded.<br /><br />“<strong>I’m</strong> not aware of any argument.” He looked at Dorothea who shook her head. <em>They’re lying</em>.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 2<br /></span><br />In the car on the way back to the lab, Brian glanced over at Lindsay.<br /><br />“You did a good job in there.”<br /><br />“Thanks. I was wondering why you let me take over the questioning.” She replied.<br /><br />“You were asking all the right questions and seemed to have a connection with them…must be that church thing.” He smiled. She smiled back.<br /><br />“So do you think someone kidnapped the girl or did she run away?” he asked.<br /><br />“I think we should wait until we see what the evidence says before forming an opinion.” she answered quickly.<br /><br />Brian laughed. “That was the right professional answer, but I want to know what your gut is telling you…and what you picked up on in the house.”<br /><br />“My gut tells me there’s more going on there than they’re letting on….and based on what I saw – or rather didn’t see, I’m leaning towards the possibility that Stephanie ran away – pending forensic confirmation of course.” She replied.<br /><br />“What makes you say that?”<br /><br />“Well, there were certain looks passed around that room that made me feel that we weren’t getting the whole story. And in her bedroom, there were no hairbrushes, perfume, or typical things that a young girl just can’t do without….plus her mother couldn’t tell me what was missing, which makes me think she either isn’t real close to her daughter or she didn’t bother to look – which I find a little strange. It could just be your typical teenage rebellion, I just don’t know.” She shrugged.<br /><br />“What do you know about them?”<br /><br />“Their public life – quite a bit, their private life- not much. They keep their private life quite private. I’ve used concerts and interviews to get a feel for Jon’s personality – if what he shows then is real, but that’s about as close as I can get. Plus, people don’t always act normally in times of crisis.” she shrugged again.<br /><br />Brian nodded in agreement. “Let’s see what we can find in the lab.”<br /><br />Several hours later, they met again in the conference room with the other members of the team to see where they were at.<br /><br />“I checked with the record company. There haven’t been any threats or hate mail that they are aware of.” This from Detective Jim Thornton. “Ditto with the band’s management company. In fact the way they tell it, the only mail they get for this guy – and they get lots – is lust mail. The guys an unbelievable chick magnet without even trying. Honestly, I don’t get it.” He shook his head in confusion. The women around the table just smiled.<br /><br />“The search of the grounds and security cameras came up empty.” Reported Tom, one of the team that had been dispatched outside of the house. “No sign of footprints and the cameras didn’t show anyone moving around other than the parent’s car leaving and returning at approximately the times they gave us.”<br /><br />“What about the outbuildings on the estate?” Lindsay asked.<br /><br />“I checked the guest house, studio and garage – nice collection of cars the man has.” came from Bob.<br /><br />“Too bad he got rid of the Viper.” Lindsay lamented.<br /><br />“He had a Viper too? And he got rid of it?” Bob half shouted. “Man, the rock star life must have blown the wires in his brain!” Snickers could be heard around the table, and even Lindsay smiled. She hadn’t been there very long, but even she had heard about Bob and his obsession with sports cars.<br /><br />“Who checked the Inn?” Lindsay questioned.<br /><br />“The what?” Brian asked.<br /><br />“Is that what they call that?” Mike asked before Lindsay could answer. “Nice pool table, and that bar is beautiful. Was he really in those movies that are on the wall?”<br /><br />“Yes” Lindsay answered. Turning to Brian she explained “it’s kind of a party room. I’ve seen pictures of the inside.”<br /><br />“Ok, so nothing outside. What about inside?” Brian refocused the conversation.<br /><br />“We caught a little bit of a break there.” Sheila reported. “I spoke to the cleaning staff and the upstairs was cleaned on Thursday, including the girl’s room. So anything there will be fresh.”<br /><br />Brian looked at Lindsay and nodded.<br /><br />“In Stephanie’s bedroom, the bed was disturbed, but it looked more like it was mussed by hands, not someone lying in it. There were three distinct hairs found in the bedding. One belongs to Stephanie, one to Melanie who cleaned her room and one is an unknown male. Likewise there were several fingerprints throughout the room. They all can be matched up to various members of the household – except one unknown set I found on the window sill and also on the dresser. I have been assured that none of her friends have been in the house in the last 3 days. Those prints were also found in the kitchen and the master bedroom.”<br /><br />“So there was someone else in the house.” Brian observed. “But how did anyone get out without the cameras seeing them?” He turned to Lindsay “Looks like your instincts were right. They aren’t telling us everything. You better do a follow up with your rock star.”<br /><br />Lindsay nodded and headed for her office as the meeting broke up. Sitting at her desk she pulled out her notepad and flipped to the page with contact phone numbers. <em>If only the girls from the boards could see me now.</em> She thought with a chuckle. <em>I have Jon’s private phone number and I’m about to use it!</em> She took a deep breath trying-unsuccessfully-to calm her nerves.<br /><br />“Hello” he answered and just the sound of his voice sent shivers down her spine and shot her pulse rate right into the stratosphere.<br /><br />“Hello Mr. Bongiovi, this is Lindsay Chandler from the crime lab. We met this morning.” There, that sounded very professional and her voice didn’t shake much at all.<br /><br />“Yes, I remember. Have you got some news for us?” The hope in his voice was almost heartbreaking, especially when she was about to dash it.<br /><br />“We’re following up on several leads and I’m hoping that we’ll have something concrete very soon. I just have a few questions for you if you have a few minutes.”<br /><br />“Sure, how can I help?” Even through the phone line she could feel his despair.<br /><br />“Is there anyway that someone could get in or out of the house and grounds without the cameras seeing them?”<br /><br />He thought for a minute. “I suppose if you know where the cameras are you could map a path around them to the wall, but there’s only one gate and there’s no way through it without the cameras seeing you.” He paused “Unless you climbed the wall behind the garage where there’s some shrubs and trees and stuff.”<br /><br />Making a note to ask Tom about the area behind the garage Lindsay chose her next words carefully. “I just wanted to verify that we have a complete list of everyone who’s been in the house in the last three days.”<br /><br />There was silence at the other end of the line for a long moment and then: “You found evidence of someone else in the house.” It was a statement, not a question.<br /><br />Sitting up straighter in her chair Lindsay’s investigator’s instincts went on full alert. She sensed that she was on the verge of uncovering at least a clue to the proverbial elephant that was being hidden under the rug. The trick was how to get him to talk about it.<br /><br />“We’ve been matching up the physical evidence we found with the prints and DNA of the staff, your family members and Obie. Is there anyone that we may have missed?”<br /><br />“Not that <strong>I’m</strong> aware of, but I’ll talk to Dorothea and get back to you.”<br /><br />“Thank you, I’d appreciate it.” She paused. “How is everyone holding up? Is there anything that you need?” <em>Idiot! What a stupid thing to say. Like he’d need anything from you!</em> She winced and slapped her free hand over her eyes.<br /><br />“We’re ok, but thanks. Just find my daughter.”<br /><br />“I’ll do my best.”<br /><br />After hanging up she gave herself a stern lecture about letting her personal feelings, and, let’s face it, attraction to the man to interfere with her ability to do her job. <em>He needs you to focus and find his daughter, not indulge in daydreams that you actually have a relationship with the man!</em><br /><br />Pulling her thoughts together, she went to update Brian and the rest of the team on the results of her conversation with Jon.<br /><br />“I know the area behind the garage that he’s talking about,” Tom said, sifting through various pictures until he found the one that showed that area. “I’ll go back and take a closer look at that area.”<br /><br />“What about other people in the house?” Brian asked.<br /><br />“He’s checking with his wife, but my sense is he knows there was someone there, but for some reason he doesn’t want to tell us. He’s supposed to call me back after he talks to her, so all we can do is wait and see what they decide.”<br /><br />She was coming back from grabbing a quick sandwich and Diet Coke from the cafeteria that the lab shared with the police department next door when the receptionist stopped her. Normally, very cool and collected Julie was obviously flustered.<br /><br />“You have a guest.” She gushed. “I showed him to your office. Excuse me, but I just have to ask…how do you know Jon Bon Jovi and will you introduce me before he leaves? Don’t get me wrong, I love my husband, but damn that man is hot!!” In emphasis she picked her message pad and fanned herself with it.<br /><br />Lindsay had to laugh. “I know. I met him this morning and I’m still pinching myself that it’s real!” She probably could have told Julie it had to do with a case, but she figured the fewer people who knew the better he would like it.<br /><br />Entering her office she saw him standing looking out her window. Once again her pulse spiked and her breathing became uneven. <em>Julie’s right. The man is definitely hot. Best assets I’ve ever seen!</em><br /><br />“Mr. Bongiovi, hello”<br /><br />He turned from the window to look at her but didn’t move otherwise. “Call me Jon. Mr. Bongiovi is too formal and for strangers.” He looked grim, but determined. “By the time I leave here today you and I are going to be anything but.”<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">Chapter 3</span><br /><br />Shutting the door behind her, Lindsay took a deep breath and moved to take the seat behind her desk. She waived Jon toward the chair across from her. He hesitated briefly, than sat down, running his hand through his hair in what was obviously a nervous gesture. She waited patiently to find out what was on his mind.<br /><br />Finally he looked at her. “Where are you from?”<br /><br />Surprised by the question it took her a minute to respond. “A small town in Ontario Canada.” She replied.<br /><br />“Husband, boyfriend, kids?”<br /><br />Sensing that he was trying to form some sort of comfort level with her before revealing his secrets she settled in and did what she rarely did – talked about herself. “No, no and no.”<br /><br />His eyebrows went up in surprise. “Really?”<br /><br />“Really.” This in a tone that told him to change the subject.<br /><br />“Parents, brothers and sisters?”<br /><br />“Both parents still living, two older brothers – both married, no sisters, four nephews and two nieces ranging in age from 20 to 11.”<br /><br />“What brought you to New Jersey?”<br /><br />She paused for a long moment debating on how much of the truth to tell him.<br /><br />“All of it.” He said. She looked up at him in surprise.<br /><br />“No I can’t read your mind, just your face.” He smiled. “You want me to share my secrets, you’re going to have to share some of your own. Fair is fair after all.”<br /><br />Lindsay took another deep breath, blew it out and nodded in agreement. “I needed to make a change in my life. I’d had several years of bad luck on all fronts- job, love life, health – and I decided something a little drastic was called for. So I went back to school, earned my degree in forensics and started looking around for a new job. In Ontario the Centre for Forensics does most of the work, so I started looking elsewhere. When I saw the job posting for here, I thought, what the hell, and sent in my application. I arrived about three weeks ago, found an apartment, and started work.” She paused “This is my first case.”<br /><br />He nodded. After a moment he said “we lied about there not being an argument. Only it wasn’t with Stephanie, it was between Dorothea and I. I think Steph may have overheard us though.”<br /><br />“Would it have upset her to hear it?” she asked.<br /><br />“This particular fight, yes I think it would.” He looked agonized and guilty.<br /><br />“Where would she go if she was upset?”<br /><br />He shook his head “I don’t know anymore. A couple of years ago I could have found her in about five minutes, but lately…..” He just frowned and shrugged his shoulders.<br /><br />“Hey, she’s growing up. It’s only natural that she wouldn’t confide in Daddy so much anymore.” She assured him gently.<br /><br />“I know, it’s just that it’s hard to let her go, even a little, and I…miss her.” He sighed.<br /><br />She waited to see if there was more. Suddenly he jumped up from his chair and started pacing the room. He stopped in front of the window and stood staring out.<br /><br />“You’ve been trained to test and read DNA results, right?” he questioned.<br /><br />“Yes, but I haven’t done any actual testing yet here. We have a lab tech that does all that. I just interpret the results.” She answered cautiously.<br /><br />Again, a pause.<br /><br />“You took samples from everyone in my family, including the boys?”<br /><br />“From your parents, Dorothea, the boys, you and Stephanie.” She replied wondering where he was going with this.<br /><br />“And from those samples you can check things like paternity?”<br /><br />Suddenly the ball dropped for her.<br /><br />“Do you want all of them checked or just Romeo?”Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1