John Francis

Jon’s phone vibrated with a text message in the middle of his meeting and he looked at the phone with irritation. He hated being interrupted, especially as he wanted to end this meeting quickly to get back to Amanda.

He opened his phone and read:

[10:45am] *Hey asshole! Lose your girl again?*

The message was from Richie and under the table he sent a message back.

[10:46am] *What the fuck u talking about? She’s sightseeing*.

Again came a text:

[10:47am] *So that means u know how to reach her?*

That stopped Jon cold. Fuck! He didn’t have her cell number? How could he not have her cell number?

[10:49am] *Ok M-Fkr what is number?*

[10:50am] *LMAO u snooze u lose!*

[10:51am] *get Will ready, u r dead!*

Jon waited and waited, but no text came back with Amanda’s number. After ten minutes of increasing impatience and apparent inattention, he excused himself for a few moments. Practically jogging from the meeting room to his office, he called Richie.

“Sambora’s Lost and Found, how can we help you?”

Despite himself, Jon laughed. “Listen, asshole, give me the fucking number!”

Putting on a bad Chinese accident, Richie responded: “So sorry, this number no ronger avairable. Stupid fuck forgot to get it!”

Groaning now, Jon growled into the phone. “Sambora, give me the number…please?”

Seriously laughing now, Richie spoke with glee. “Ah, the magic word!” Finally relenting, he gave Jon the number.

Grumbling now that he had gotten what he wanted, he muttered ‘asshole’ and hung up his cell. Deciding to call and check on Amanda’s progress, as well as give her a quick update on the timing of his meeting, he called the number.

“Charlie’s New York Style Pizza. May I help you?”

Looking at his cell phone then putting it back to his ear, Jon repeated the number to the man to be sure he had dialed correctly. He had. He hung up and immediately called Richie. No answer. He called again. Still no answer. He was ready to throw the phone across the room when a text came in.

[11:03am] *Who is asshole now?*

Acknowledging Richie had won this round, he sent the ‘I give up message’.

[11:04am] *Me = asshole, number now?*

A number appeared in his text messages and still not trusting Richie at this point, he dialed from his office phone.

“Hello?” It was Amanda.

“Hey honey, how’s it going?”

He heard laughter then. “Richie called you, didn’t he? I had to admit I had no way to reach you and I was too embarrassed to ask the limo driver. Damn that man! Had to listen to at least five minutes of his laughing his head off at me!”

“Yeah, same here. I’m getting you a bigger wooden spoon! Hey, we should be done around two. Want to grab a late lunch?”

“Sure, Alex said to call him when I was ready to leave. You do realize don’t you Bongiovi that I have the cell number for a man I met for less than 15 minutes, but I didn’t have yours, right?”

“I know, I feel like an idiot and Richie is never gonna let me live this down.”

She laughed then at just how bad Richie could be. “I’ll see you back there at two, okay?”

“Sounds good, babe, love you.”

“Love you too, Jon.”

Jon made sure his phone was closed and then groaned. Richie was going to make this so bad, he just knew it. Shaking his head, he returned to his meeting.


Amanda continued sightseeing, but in truth she really wanted to get something for Jon. What do you get a man who has everything? She stopped in a sort of New Age store and looking around saw some necklaces. They were on a black cord and there was one that had two hearts intertwined, one silver and one gold. It wasn’t too delicate for a man and she couldn’t resist. She bought it and had it boxed and wrapped.

Continuing on, she stopped at a sidewalk café to have a coffee. Sitting and enjoying the day, she thought about how much had happened in so short a time. For so long she had over-analyzed everything in her life and she was not going to do that now. She was just going to enjoy herself. Checking the time she realized it was 1:30 and she called Alex. He was there within 5 minutes and she was back at the Soul offices at 1:55. She entered the main area, but was stopped by a security guard that had not been on duty earlier when she arrived with Jon.

“Excuse me, ma’am, can I help you?”

“Hi, yes, I’m supposed to meet Jon in his office at two.”

The man cast her a rather dubious look. Women were always trying to get in to see Jon and part of his job was to weed out the ones who didn’t belong. He called up to Marcia and told her a woman was here to see Jon. Marcia told him to ask her name and when he did and she replied ‘Amanda’, Marcia immediately told him to let her up as she was Mr. B’s girlfriend. Opening the security gate, he apologized, but she smiled graciously at him and said she completely understood, he was just doing his job.

Marcia also tried to apologize for the guard when Amanda arrived at the office, but again Amanda smiled and told her not to worry about it in the slightest, the man was doing his job.

“Really, Marcia, it was nothing. Please don’t make anything out of it, okay?”

Marcia gave her a warm smile then, deciding she liked this girlfriend of her boss.

Jon came in then, his hair a bit ragged as he had obviously been running his hands through it. He had a distracted look and started barking out instructions to Marcia, who had a steno pad at the ready as she knew Jon. Amanda remained quiet while Jon finished with Marcia. He gave a rolling motion of his shoulders to relax them and then turned to give Amanda a smile. She saw the smile didn’t quite reach his eyes though. She waited to see what he would say.

Sighing deeply, he looked at her. “Manda, I’m sorry, I can’t take you to lunch. A bunch of shit has come up and…fuck…always happens, gotta go see some people and smooth things over.”

“It’s okay, honey. I know you said we were staying here tonight. Would it help if I went and checked us in so you could just come there when you were ready? Oh, you have to tell me where we’re staying though.”

“Marcia already took care of that, but if you wanted to go to the hotel for a bit while I deal with this crap that would probably be a good idea.”

“No problem. At least now we know how to get in touch with each other.” Her wide grin actually made him give her a full smile.

“Can’t believe we actually did that…you know Richie’s gonna be unbearable, right?”

“Oh, yeah, I can hear it now, but I’m sure the real thing will be worse.”

The office phone rang then and Jon answered. “Hey…yeah, I heard…I’ll be there in an hour…well fuck, how was I supposed to know? Look, just keep them there, I’m on my way.” He hung up the phone a little louder than normal.

Amanda knew he needed to get going, so moving to the door she just said, “I’ll see you when you’re free, okay?”

Jon crossed the office in a few quick steps. “Where do you think you’re going?” His growl was deep as he gathered her in his arms. He pulled her tight to him, kissing her with a pent up passion that seemed always under the surface for them. “Thanks, baby, for being so sweet about this.”

“No thanks needed.” She gave him a wolfish grin. “You’ll just pay later.”

“Promise?”

“Oh yeah, I promise!”

Smacking her on the ass, he gently shoved her towards the door. “Get outta here before I get caught with you on top of my desk!”

***Thanks and credit to Tara Leigh in her “Home” story for a way to do text messages!

They awoke early the next morning for the drive. Jon had called for a limo as he wanted to provide Amanda with transportation for wherever she was going while he was in his meetings. Linda had prepared a light breakfast and they both filled travel mugs with coffee as they left the house. Settling into the limo, Jon talked enthusiastically about his co-ownership of The Soul. It was apparent he loved football and since she also was a fan, although she had never seen arena football, she vehemently defended her Miami Dolphins against his beloved Giants.

Between all the football banter and good-natured ribbing about their teams, the drive to Philly passed quickly. Arriving at the Soul offices, Jon and Amanda entered to see a crowd of people working at various tasks. As he made his way to his office, Jon could see the people who worked for him eyeing Amanda surreptitiously. He made introductions where appropriate, but could almost hear the buzz he left in his wake. He asked his secretary to come in and she brought coffee when she did so.

“Marcia, I want to introduce you to someone very special to me. This is Amanda Matthews, my girlfriend. Amanda, this is Marcia Tipton, my right hand here at this office.” The two women shook hands and Amanda smiled warmly both at meeting Marcia and at his introduction of her.

“I have some meetings today and I’d like you to provide Amanda with any information she might need about places to visit in Philly while I’m busy here.”

Marcia responded promptly. “Of course, Jon, anything she needs.”

Turning to Amanda, Jon said: “My first meeting starts at 10 and it’s only 9:15. Let me show you around a bit.”

She smiled at him. “I’d love that.”

They left the office and the sudden silence and then resumption of conversation was indication enough that the bees had been buzzing. Shaking his head, Jon showed Amanda around the various departments, always introducing her as his girlfriend, and simply by virtue of his command of his surroundings letting those who worked for him know he would not take kindly to any disrespect towards her.

At 9:50 they returned to his office where he turned her over to Marcia’s care. Smiling at Marcia, Amanda made a simple request.

“Marcia, I’m not much of a shopper, but I love to browse. Is there a good place to do that close to here?” After written directions were provided, Amanda made her way back to the entrance of the building. The limo was still there, but she didn’t even glance at it as she made her way to one of the streets.

“Excuse me, ma’am?”

Turning, she saw the limo driver looking at her with a bit of a puzzled expression on his face.

“Yes?”

“Mr. B told me to drive you wherever you needed to go. Do you have a destination in mind?”

Looking at him a little wide-eyed, Amanda came back over to the car. “Sorry, I didn’t think. Would you mind taking me to this address?” She handed the directions over to the driver.

“No problem, ma’am, it’s not far.” He opened the back door for her and she started to get in. Stopping in mid motion, she turned to him.

“Um, I’m sorry, I don’t know your name and I don’t know how to reach you later if you are supposed to drive me back?” She offered her hand to him. “I’m Amanda Matthews.”

“I’m Alex. Pleased to meet you, ma’am.”

“Amanda, please.”

“Amanda.”

Alex drove her to the district where Marcia said there were good places to browse and then gave her his cell number to contact him later. She got out and started walking the area, enjoying the architecture and the difference of a northern city versus a southern one. As she walked, her mind turned frequently to Jon and she realized she didn’t know what time he would want her back. Then she realized that she not only didn’t she have the number to the Soul office, she didn’t have Jon’s cell number. They hadn’t been apart since meeting and had never needed to call the other’s cell. She had been with him for ten days, made love more times than she could count, and she didn’t have his damn cell number. She didn’t think she could be more embarrassed. She was wrong.

“Richie?”

“Hey hon, how ya doin’? Tell me I don’t have to drive like a maniac again.”

She laughed softly at that. “No, no, but thank you so much for your help with that. I…uhm…I’m calling for a different reason.”

“Sambora’s Hotline at your service. What can I do for you love?”

Taking a deep sigh she told him where she was and where Jon was. “Richie…oh my God, this is too embarrassing…”

“What’s the problem, angel?”

Mumbling now, she said: “I don’t have his cell number.”

She heard a bark of laughter and then he did it, made her repeat herself. “Sorry, didn’t get that, what did you say?”

“I said I don’t have his cell number, dammit!”

She actually had to hold the phone away from her ear as his howls of laughter just grew in volume.

“Richie…Richie!…RICHARD!!!” She finally got through to him.

Still laughing, he asked her if Jon had her number. Grumpily, knowing now what was coming, she answered loudly ‘no!’. Again, laughter filled her phone. Finally controlling himself enough, he gave her Jon’s cell number.

“Hey, babe, we’re gonna see you Wednesday at the concert meeting, right?”

“I think so…if I let you live that long!”

“Excuse me, did I or did I not just save your ass?”

She giggled. “Ok, ok, two saves in a week, thanks Uncle Richie!”

“Talk to you later, babe.”

“You too, sweetie. Say hi to your mom for me please.” She hung up as Richie got busy sending a text message.

They showered and then dressed to go back out. Amanda was almost in a daze from the sexual satiation she had experienced. She had a lazy “cat that ate the canary” smile on her face and her movements were almost sensual as she put on her bra, her fingers actually lingering there for a moment in remembrance. She brushed her hair, pulling it to her to smell his scent on her.

Through a fortunate set of mirrors, Jon was able to see what she was doing and he was amazed to find himself beginning to respond again just at her simple actions. His mind could still hear the passion in her voice when he finally got her to tell him what she wanted. He doubted he would be able to stop hearing Fuck me! Please, Jon, please! Fuck me! for quite a while. He adjusted himself in his pants at the memory. He knew he better get her out of his apartment before he just kept her there for the rest of the night.

They entered the elevator again, taking it to the lobby this time. Jon nodded at the doorman, put on his ball cap and sunglasses, and they moved out onto the crowded street. Even the rushing of the people around them could not remove the smile from Amanda’s face. Jon glanced at her and saw that she was not paying as much attention to her surroundings as she had been before. He saw the little smile on her face and couldn’t resist.

Pulling down his sunglasses a little so she could see his eyes, he stopped her against a building.

“Is that smile for me?”

Pulled a little out of her sexual fog, Amanda blushed fiercely.

“I’m gonna take that as a yes.” His self-satisfied smile of bright teeth and twinkling blue eyes made her laugh.

She mumbled at him in embarrassment. “Oh just shut up.” Her face flaming even redder at his laugh.

“Come on, baby, let’s go enjoy the day…unless you’d rather…?”

She growled at him. “Odious man!” and started to stalk off, having no idea where she was going. Taking a few quick steps he caught up to her and grabbed her hand. She clasped his with hers, but the blush remained.

“Let’s go grab a bite first, okay? I seem to be hungry all of a sudden.”

Rolling her eyes at him, she motioned for him to lead on. Catching a cab, he directed the driver to take them to Elaine’s. Amanda made eyes at him, whispering “I’m dressed okay for there?” He nodded and smiled. “I know a guy...” he said in his best ‘Godfather’ accent. During the drive she remarked on the number of cabs on the streets. They seemed to outnumber the cars.

“Don’t people drive here?”

“Sure. It’s just that parking is such a hassle and so expensive that most people take the trains or buses to get here and then cab it.”

The cab driver shortly had them at Elaine’s and she exited while Jon paid. They walked into the famous restaurant where Jon removed his cap, but kept the sunglasses. Apparently he was known here as they were quickly shown a table. Jon ordered a bottle of wine he thought Amanda would like and at her suggestion ordered several appetizers. The service was excellent and they found themselves relaxing a bit of the afternoon away. He talked to her about things they could do in the city on other days as she expressed a wish to just wander a bit in a place she had never been.

They left the restaurant ready to do some walking after filling their bellies. Amanda was a little tipsy from the wine and giggled a little more than she usually did, especially at some of the hairstyles of the native New Yorkers. Jon noticed several men paying attention to her. In contrast to the high maintenance women that seemed to populate the city streets, Amanda’s minimal makeup, free flowing long hair, and casual yet elegant dress caused more than one man’s eyes to follow her as she walked by. Several tried to meet her eyes, but he noticed she didn’t even seem to see them. Jon found himself in the unusual position of actually feeling he needed to stake his claim on this woman.

During their walk Amanda smiled at Jon, giggled a lot, twirled at times to see the height of some of the buildings, and was so engaging he just couldn’t stop touching her. He held her hand, had his arm around her waist, touched her face, and kissed her every chance he got. His kisses only got him more giggles and he again noticed that even on the busy noisy street her giggles got the attention of the men around them. Damn, she has no idea of how she comes across, no idea of what others see. He was more and more thrilled that she was with him and found the easy irony in that as usually the situation was reversed. She’s good for me. I really needed someone like her…no, I need her.

The day was growing longer when Amanda finally admitted that she was getting a little tired. Jon hailed a cab and directed the driver back to his apartment. Getting his car out of the garage, they started back to his home. She turned to him in her seat, requesting coffee for the drive back. He stopped at a Starbucks and they both got their beverage of choice. They were quiet on the drive, Jon paying attention to the traffic and Amanda just soaking up what she had seen that day.

Realizing suddenly that through his various business phone calls he had set himself a pretty hectic schedule for the next few days, he thought he should give her an idea of what was coming up in the next week.

“Manda, I was thinking I should give you a heads up on my schedule for the next few days. I was thinking about it a few minutes ago and realized that unintentionally I made myself pretty busy.”

Nodding at him, she urged him to continue.

“I have to go to the Soul’s office tomorrow for some meetings then a late dinner with my business partner there. On Tuesday I’m supposed to meet with the Habitat people. Wednesday is the pre-concert meeting with the guys, and then Thursday is the show at Giant’s.”

She laughed then, “When did you plan on sleeping?”

Waggling his eyebrows at her, he grinned. “I was hoping you would help with that.”

“Oh you were, huh?”

“Yep, I actually got some good ideas today when we first arrived in the city.”

She smacked him then and blushed again. “Jesus, Bongiovi! I have never in my entire life blushed so much!”

He grinned at her. “I like it and I plan to cause more.”

She rolled her eyes at him. “Okay, so you’ve got a very busy schedule for the next few days. No problem. Tell me the plan.”

Jon started to open his mouth, but then stopped. What was the plan? He was the one who wanted to include a partner in his life, but he had never had that before. So, how did he go about doing it?

He had hesitated too long, he could feel it.

“This is a bit of a first for you, isn’t it?”

His head snapped to her at that remark. How had she known?

She laughed at his expression. “Jon, you are a very take charge guy. You hesitate that long to answer a question and I know the wheels are spinning! We aren’t joined at the hip. I am realizing more and more what a busy life you lead. I don’t expect you to try to provide entertainment every second for me. Just tell me what you would like.”

Jon was thinking furiously. What he wanted was her with him as much as possible and he was damn sure going to make that happen.

“Ok, we drive to Philly in the morning and you get some first hand experience at how boring some of my life can be.”

Amanda was also thinking hard. As much as a change as all this was in her life, it was also a change in Jon’s. She couldn’t imagine that his business associates would want his girlfriend sitting in on meetings and she didn’t want him distracted worrying about her. They really needed to talk about this.

“Jon, I think we need to figure out some sort of compromise here. I know your business people aren’t going to want your… your…” she hesitated on the word girlfriend.

“My girlfriend?” Jon supplied.

“Yes,” she sighed, “you’re girlfriend sitting in on meetings and other aspects of your business. That’s fine with me, really, there’s no problem there. I can sightsee, go to museum’s, art galleries, I promise I won’t be bored. You just need to talk to me and tell me what you would like.”

He flashed her a grateful grin. “You always going to be this easy to get along with?”

“Probably not. I have my bad days too, but over the last year I have learned not to sweat the small stuff.”

“Ok, pack for overnight as we will be late in Philly. Bring some dress clothes, as well as casual so we can do what we want.”

“Sounds great…I even have some new luggage for all that!” She shot him her own grin.

After Richie left, Jon and Amanda moved to retire for the evening. Both felt emotionally drained, although from different emotions. Spooning behind Amanda in bed, Jon whispered to her again that he loved her and he needed her. She clasped his hand in hers, kissing the knuckles with her soft lips.

“I’m sorry I got so anxious, Jon, I never expected to feel like this again and the way I need you and need to be with you actually scares me a little.”

“Me too, baby, but most people don’t get another love like this and I’m not going to lose it.”

They fell asleep wrapped in each other’s arms.


Morning found the two in the same position they had slept in. Finally opening her eyes, Amanda felt Jon behind her and how he tightened his grip on her even while still asleep. She felt more peaceful this morning, glad she had told Jon her fears and even happier that he also seemed to want to have a new type of life with her. She managed to slip out from under his arms and freshened up in the bathroom without waking him. Putting on a robe, she went down to the kitchen to put some coffee on.

Entering the kitchen, she was surprised to see Linda already there, having a cup herself. Holding up a hand that she would get her own coffee, Amanda grabbed a cup, using the cream and sugar already on the table. She smiled at Linda and said good morning.

Linda looked perceptively at Amanda as they sipped their coffees.

“You okay, honey?”

Amanda smiled at her. “Yes, I am. Sorry if I caused a fuss yesterday.”

“You didn’t. The air got cleared a bit and that’s always a good thing.”

“You mean me and Jon?”

Linda shook her head. “No, Jon and Dot. I’ve lived here and worked for those folks a long time. I’m not about to tell any tales out of school, but I knew there was something about you the minute I met you. No other woman has ever been to this house and you should know that.”

Amanda smiled at her. “Thanks, Linda, I appreciate what you’re saying. This is all pretty new to me.” They talked a bit more, with Amanda telling Linda about her husband and about some of her life before Jon.

“Never saw that man more frantic than when I gave him your note.”

Amanda blushed lightly. “I just needed some time, Linda, that’s all.”

“I understand, sweetie. You ever need someone to talk to, you know where I am.”

“Thank you…more than you can know…thank you” was Amanda’s smiling response.

They both heard Jon coming through the living room then and smiled at each other.

“Good morning, ladies,” he called out.

“Morning sleepyhead…” Linda teased, “you actually get some sleep?”

Jon flashed his smile at her as he moved to Amanda’s side. “Good morning, my love!” He kissed her softly and she returned his greeting. He moved to get coffee and grinned when Linda handed him a cup.

“She knows I’m usually a bear in the morning until I get my coffee.”

Linda snorted. “A bear? More like unbearable…Hey!” she shouted as he moved towards her. Reaching suddenly for a wooden spoon, she saw the two of them burst into uncontrollable laughter at her action. Gasping out some of the story with regard to Richie, Jon managed to convey just what a wooden spoon now meant. Laughing herself now, Linda put the spoon back and shaking her head, she left them to enjoy their coffee.

“So, what’s on the agenda today, oh king of New Jersey?”

“Sass? I’m getting sass on my first cup of coffee? You like to live dangerously, don’t you?”

She laughed, “Nah, just know I’m safe with Linda just a yell away!”

He leered at her. “You do know she gets days off, don’t you?”

“So, I wait until your second cup for sass on those days…” and he laughed as she returned his leer.

“Let’s go into the city.”

She looked at him quizzically. “What city?”

He laughed at the expression on her face. “New York City, babe, the Big Apple…ya know, New York?”

She gasped. “I’ve never been to a city that big, let alone New York. What are we gonna do? Show me EVERYTHING!” She grabbed his shirt and pulled him towards her. “What are you waiting for??? New York!? JON!! MOVE!!” And with that she ran up the stairs to get into the shower. Sitting there stunned at her reaction for a moment, he started laughing as he ran up the stairs after her.

Within the hour they were in Jon’s car and headed towards New York. Amanda had Jon point out everything to her and he found himself enjoying the familiar landscape through her eyes. As they approached the City proper, she got very quiet, taking in the skyline, the huge skyscrapers, and more homes and apartments than she could have ever imagined. He kept glancing at her, seeing her becoming more and more wide-eyed as they got into the heart of Manhattan. He took a few familiar turns, parking in the garage where he had his apartment.

Parking, he got her out of the car, took her hand and led her to an elevator.

“Where are we going?”

“Just need to make a stop first, okay?”

She nodded, “Sure” and settled back as the elevator rose higher and higher.

Getting off on his floor, he led her to his apartment and opened the door. Motioning for her to enter, she did so, immediately moving towards the big windows on the opposite side of the room.

“Oh my God! We’re so high! Look at this view!”

He came up behind her and enfolded her in his arms.

Nuzzling her neck, he asked, “You like?”

“It’s amazing! I’ve never been this high in a building before. Where are we, by the way?”

“My apartment.”

Eyes wide, she gasped. “You live here?”

He nodded and turned her in his arms. “I want to show you the city, baby, but right now I just want you.”

Seeing the darkening of his eyes as he held her, the simmering flame that had been present inside her since her first experience with this man flared into a roaring fire. He grasped her head and hair, locking his mouth over hers, pressing their bodies into a tight line. She moved her hands over him, touching all she could reach as her mouth was tasting his. Holding their blazing passion in check by the barest control, they undressed each other, hovering over every exposed area.

Jon kissed his way down Amanda’s throat, pausing at her breasts, but not stopping. Dropping to his knees, his hands on her ass, he kissed a line down to the top of her mound. On shaking legs Amanda grasped his hair, trying to pull him up from that position, but he resisted her and she was helpless once she felt his warmth on hers. Small cries escaped her as he teased her more fully into readiness and it was only his hands on her ass and her hands in his hair that prevented her from falling. She trembled from the movements of his mouth and tongue and then suddenly she was thrown over the edge into a mind-numbing orgasm, her own fist at her mouth to stifle her scream of pleasure.

Jon held onto her firmly, steadying her until she could stand firmly once again. Eyes closed, shaking at the intensity of the sensations he raised in her, she felt him rise up from the floor, still kissing her as he moved up now. His lips met hers and she tasted herself, a flush on her face from the intimacy of that action. Holding her close again, she felt his maleness press into her flesh and she once again felt an ache deep inside. She started to move herself to return the gift he had given her, but he stopped her.

“That was just for you. I wanted to watch you and feel you and taste you.” His love words burned her and she let him lead her to the bedroom. Throwing off the covers, he lowered her to the sheet, barely pausing in his touches. He mounded her breasts together and licked first one nipple then the other. She swelled to his touch and began to writhe in anticipation. His hardness was pressed against her leg and she couldn’t take any more.

“Please, come inside me…I need you so badly…please, Jon, don’t make me wait…”

For a few agonizing seconds longer he continued licking her breasts, but then he smiled at her and she felt him spread her legs apart. Bracing his arms against the bed, he barely let the tip of himself touch her and she arched for him. Slowly he pushed himself inside her, feeling her swollen tightness. Inch by inch he entered her, strain now showing on his face at her whimpers to have him inside her. She reached down, grabbed his ass, and pushed him into her as hard as she could.

“JON! I need you to…” she blushed as she tried to tell him what she wanted.

Knowing what she needed, but wanting to hear the words, he withdrew from her until only his tip was inside.

“What do you want, baby?”

She growled at him, her voice low and lust filled. “You know what I want, please, just…”

“Tell me what you want.” He teased her with small movements, never enough to satisfy.

Still trying to get what she wanted without the words, she arched against him again, but he pulled back further and she was left desperate for him.

His voice husky with restrained passion, he said again, “Say it, Manda, tell me what you want me to do to you.”

Aching, writhing, near to madness from desire, she made herself say the words.

“Fuck me! I want you to fuck me! Please, Jon, please! Fuck me!”

At her words, his hardness grew and he answered her plea. He didn’t thrust - he invaded, he assaulted, his scorching warmth burning into her, searing her until they were both crazed. Bucking wildly from the feel of him, she felt lust and love bring her to new heights. They were both drenched in sweat as Jon moved into her heated flesh, forgetting in his passion to hold onto her. Her orgasm almost threw him off her, but he recovered enough to grab her waist, moving to her hips, as he rode her waves. Her spasms around him drew a response that seemed to come from his toes as he came inside her, ripple after ripple of pure bliss flowing through him. As she felt him reach his peak, the knowledge and feel of him again caused her own pleasure and both felt the spasms of the other.

Jon collapsed over her, strength gone, breath harsh, and sweat drenched. He couldn’t have moved off her if he had wanted to. Amanda’s breath matched his and she smelled the heavy musk of their lovemaking in the air. For several minutes they lay there, trying to regain their wits and manage enough energy to move.

Finally, Jon was able to roll enough to take his weight off her. She turned her head away from him, flushing at her response and the words he had brought out of her.

He whispered to her. “Thank you, baby, for telling me. God, I needed to hear that. I needed to know you wanted me as badly as I wanted you.”

She turned to him then, almost in wonder. How had he known she needed to hear that what she had said was okay? She smiled and touched his lips with her finger. “Thank you.”

That smile of his, the one that reached his eyes and lit his entire face, was suddenly turned to her. “You…are…welcome!”

Sitting at the coffee shop known as Dave’s, Amanda was finally feeling warmer from her walk and a few cups of coffee and the time to think had been good for her. She replayed the conversation she had heard and tried to get to the root of what bothered her. Part of it was the anger Dot had towards Jon, or rather the resentment that he had strayed so often from their marriage. Another part was the public aspect of Jon’s life, where someone or more than one of his trusted associates had betrayed him. The most troubling aspect though was his infidelities. That was the bald truth. She felt she had fooled herself into thinking that love was enough with a man like Jon and that didn’t seem to be the way it was.

A cold blast of air announced the opening of the door. So lost in thought she didn’t look up, she was startled when a tall dark figure settled in the booth opposite her. She looked up into Richie’s face. He reached for one of her hands.

“Hey pretty lady.”

Not trusting her voice, Amanda just nodded her greeting. She gave herself a small shake and cleared her voice.

“Hey Rich, thanks for coming.”

“I talked to Jon. He’s going nuts, by the way.”

“I just needed a little time to myself. Needed to do some thinking.”

He raised his eyes at her. “Hope that thinking didn’t include leaving?”

She didn’t answer and wouldn’t meet his eyes.

Fuck! This is worse than I thought. Gotta get her to talk.

Throwing a few bills on the table, he took her hand and pulled her to her feet.

“Let’s get outta here.” She followed without a word, getting into his car.

He drove in silence for a few minutes, then pulled into a parking lot by a kid’s park. Turning off the car, he looked at her.

“Honey, talk to me.”

She shook her head ‘no’ and continued to look out the window.

He tried another tactic. “Didn’t you say we were friends?”

She nodded ‘yes’.

“Then let me be your friend. Talk to me.”

Tears rolled down her face as she tried to explain the real issue.

“I can’t be with someone who will cheat on me…I can’t take being scared of getting some disease…or seeing him with someone younger…or becoming someone he wants to leave behind…” She was actually sobbing now as she expressed her deepest fears.

Richie took in and blew out a deep breath. Jon was going to have to talk with her about this, but he couldn’t not say something. Before he could begin, Amanda continued.

“It has to stop now, Richie, I can’t love someone this much and lose them again. I can’t have another person taken from me…if someone is going to leave, this time it’s going to be me…”

Richie’s cell rang at that moment as Amanda continued to cry softly.

“Hey man…yeah, we left Dave’s…Jon…JON!…let us talk for a few, okay? Let me call you in a bit…man, calm down…she’s okay…just give us a little time, alright? I’ll call soon…yeah, I know, man, I know…soon…”

Amanda’s tears had slowed and Richie turned to her.

“I want to ask you something, honey…” Richie began and then continued at her nod. “You love Jon, right?” Again she nodded. “And, you’re scared, right?” Another nod. “Will you believe that I know Jon just about as well as anyone, maybe even better than his ex-wife in some ways?”

She thought about that for a few seconds, then nodded her assent.

“Ok, here’s the truth as I know it. Jon did fuck around on the road, especially when away from Dot for long periods. Since the divorce, well, as you’ve seen, he’s been an asshole. But, and this is a really big but, you have to believe that he has not been the way he is with you with anyone before.”

Still no words from Amanda, but she was listening.

“Dot has been in his life since they were 17. They did love each other and a long time ago I believe they were in love. No one could have known what would happen to the band and when things got big and continued to get bigger, Dot didn’t want to be a part of that life. She left Jon alone for long periods of time because she didn’t want to hang with the band and then they started having kids. He really has been alone for a very long time. I think with you he wants someone to share his life with and someone who will be there with him every step of the way.”

“Richie…” Amanda began, but he interrupted.

“Wait, please, let me finish…” he motioned to her. “He is in a different stage of life now and he wants you to share it with him. And you told me you had found love again. Do you know how rare that is? Are you really going to throw it away?” He held his breath waiting for her answer.

With a deep sigh, she spoke. “…no…but I’m really scared of being so hurt again…”

“Aren’t you going to be hurt if you leave him?”

Shaking her head, she answered, “…it’s crazy to love him this much this fast…so, yes, I don’t know what I would do without him…”

“So, let’s go talk to the man…okay, honey?”

She turned teary eyes to him. “Take me there, Richie.”


Within moments they were turning into Jon’s driveway, to see Jon standing outside, phone in hand. He was pacing rapidly back and forth and only stopped when he saw Amanda was with Richie. Racing to her side of the car, he threw open the door and practically pulled her out. Holding her tightly in his arms, he just shook with emotion. His eyes were closed as he held her almost savagely, not wanting to let go.

Richie got out of the car and at the sound of the door, Jon opened his eyes and looked at his friend. He saw a small nod and just held Amanda tighter. She returned his hold with equal fervor.

Making a motion towards the house, Richie spoke. “Let’s go inside, guys.” They all moved into the house and the living room. Jon would not let go of Amanda’s hand which caused problems when she tried to remove her coat. Finally, sitting down with glasses of wine, Richie started the long overdue conversation.

“I know this should really be between you two, but I’m in it now and you both are going to listen to me.”

They looked at him, waiting to hear what he had to say. He started with Jon.

“Man, you are my brother, closer to me than anyone, so I’m not gonna bullshit you. If you want this woman in your life, you are going to have to change. No more fucking around, no one night stands, no rock star notches, nothing…because the thought of that terrifies her. It is enough to make her leave you, right now, and you would be losing the best thing to ever happen to you besides your kids.”

He turned to Amanda now. “You are going to have to accept that Jon was a certain way, but he doesn’t want to be that way any longer. You’re going to have to begin to trust him, not just love him, because you want to be in his life more than anything.”

Richie gave them a few minutes to absorb what he had said. Jon turned to Amanda.

“Is that what it was? Hearing that I was unfaithful and the pain I caused to Dot?”

She nodded. “I know this sounds like some sort of ultimatum, but it isn’t. It’s just what I can and can’t accept. Never once during my years with Jeremy did I have to worry about being cheated on, or catching a disease, or being left for someone better. This is just something I can’t do…leaving you now would break my heart…finding out you cheated on me or that I had become a burden…well, that would break me.”

The quiet determination in her voice, instead of making him feel cornered, made him want to do anything for her.

“I can only tell you that I know what my actions did before. The possibility of finding someone like you didn’t even exist for me and I will do anything to have you know that I don’t want to repeat my mistakes. I want a partner, someone to share a life with, someone who wants to be with me as much as I want to be with them. You are that person, Manda, I love you and I need you. Please give me the chance to show you.”

Amanda looked at Richie for a moment and at his nod, she turned again to Jon.

Almost in a whisper, she told him, “I want that chance too.”

He kissed her softly, lovingly, then turned to his friend.

“Thanks, man, thanks for being there for both of us.” Amanda got up and kissed Richie’s cheek and added her thanks.

“Hey guys, don’t sweat it, I don’t want to lose any friends either, whether they’re an old friend or a new one.”

Unknown to both, Amanda had seen the kids about to enter the house and she had dashed to Jon’s office to give the family some time together. A closet there had been converted into a large filing room and when she had heard voices approaching, she had quickly ducked inside. This kept her out of view, but not out of earshot and she heard every word the two had said to each other.

Silent tears fell and her emotions whirled from one extreme to the other. She had heard the pain in his ex-wife’s voice at Jon’s infidelities and also the pain in his that he was left alone so much. She honestly didn’t know what to do, but this was all so new to her that there was no way she could sit down to dinner with them all. She had to think. She wished she had someone to talk to…and then she realized she did.

Keeping Amanda in the back of his mind at all times, Jon’s attention was a little diverted as one after the other of the kids regaled him with some story involving friends, school, after school activities, and other things he had not been around for. He caught the looks Linda was throwing him and he tried to motion with his eyes, asking her to go find Amanda. After fifteen minutes or so, she returned to the room with a note for him that had been half hidden by the front door. He opened it as the kids were distracted with the desert Linda had prepared.

Jon – I know you need some time with your family and I need some time to think. I can’t tell you how sorry I am that I was in the office when you talked to Dot, but I was and I heard everything. I’ll get in touch with you soon. Amanda

From the file room, Amanda had used her cell phone to call the only other person she knew in New Jersey.

“Richie? It’s Amanda.”

“Hey darlin’! What’s goin’ on? He actually let you outta his bed long enough to make a phone call?”

Her voice was heavy with emotion when she asked again, “Richie – I can’t tell you why, but I’m leaving. I don’t know anyone here but you. If I take a cab, will you come get me?”

Immediately concerned, he responded, “Of course! Does Jon know?”

“No and I don’t want him to. I’ll leave a note. I’m leaving now. I’ll call you,” and she quickly hung up the phone. Hearing voices in the kitchen, she grabbed her coat and purse and walked to the end of the driveway. The security system allowed exit without a code and she left, moving towards the direction where she had seen stores and where she could find a phone book to call a cab.

Richie in the meantime almost broke every speeding law to get to Jon’s house a half hour away. He had not yet heard from Amanda to tell him where she was and he debated most of the way about calling Jon or waiting to hear what Amanda had to tell him.

Amanda reached a coffee shop where she stopped to get something warm to drink. It was a lot colder than she imagined it would be when she started walking and at this moment all she wanted was some coffee and a few minutes to feel warm again.


After reading Amanda’s note, Jon’s face went nearly white. He quickly excused himself from the table and went to the front door. He saw her coat and purse were gone. He ran upstairs, but all her clothes were still there. Okay, he had to think. She didn’t know anyone here. Where the fuck could she have gone? At that moment his cell began to vibrate and he saw it was Richie calling.

He growled into the phone, “What?”

“What the fuck happened, man?” he heard the return growl of his friend.

“Did she call you? Do you know where she is? Talk to me, dammit!”

“If you’ll shut up enough to let me answer, I will!”

Jon paced and ran his hands through his hair as Richie explained the call and that he was almost to Jon’s house.

“Wait…you mean that was the last you heard from her? She hasn’t called you again to tell you where to meet her?”

“No. I was waiting to hear, but then called you. Where could she have gone?” The confusion was clear in Richie’s voice.

“I don’t know. Listen, Dot and the kids are here…” He heard Richie’s ‘oh fuck’ in the background. “Yeah, no shit. Let me get them on their way and then we’ll find her. Come in when you get here, okay.”

“Got it. Five minutes.” Richie snapped his phone shut and then checked to make sure there weren’t any missed calls. Dammit! Why hadn’t she called?


Dot was just getting Romeo cleaned up when Jon walked back into the kitchen. She knew from his face there was something wrong, but with the kids there it just wasn’t the time. Gathering the four together, they moved to get coats and hats and then outside where Jon helped load everyone in the car. With the kids in the car and the doors closed, Dot paused before she got in.

“Jon?”

He looked at her with a rather wild expression in his eyes. She knew then in her bones that whatever they had had between them really was completely over.

“Jon!”

Turning distractedly he just ground out, “She heard us and she’s gone.”

Knowing there was nothing she could do at this point, Dot just nodded. “Let me know…please?”

He nodded back and waved at his kids as in the distance the gate opened for Richie’s car. Horns honked as the two passed each other, Jon pacing even faster as Richie approached. Slamming on the brakes, he shot out of the car, but one look at Jon and he knew. Jon also knew Richie had not heard from her. He could see it in his face.

They moved into the house, Jon giving Richie much more detail about the conversation with Dot and the anger she had still felt.

“Fuck! Amanda heard all that? What Dot said about you being unfaithful and not liking to be alone?”

Jon nodded his head miserably. “Yeah, she heard all that…but why wouldn’t she give me a chance to explain, to talk to her?”

He continued, feeling more and more angry and sorry for himself. “Fuck, Rich, for the second time in my life I tell a woman I love her and just like the first she ends up throwing it in my face! The bitch wouldn’t even give me a chance…”

Jon didn’t have the ability to continue his rant as Richie’s fist solidly struck his jaw. He stood there in shock, rubbing his chin, gaping at Richie in astonishment.

“What the fuck did you do that for?”

“Because you were acting like a baby and I’m fuckin’ tired of that shit!”

Richie continued berating Jon. “Let’s look at some of the facts here, okay? You do one of the shittiest things you’ve ever done to a woman, on the day one year after her husband’s death. You were so deep in self-pity and booze you didn’t even know her name or if she was with someone else. No, you just fucked her. Then, BECAUSE of the woman she is, you actually get someone truly great to fall in love with you. She leaves her home, comes to a strange city, to a house she knows you shared with your family, and then your family shows up.”

Jon was strangely silent hearing Richie bring the truth home with a vengeance.

“Now, trying to be sensitive to YOUR needs, she let’s you have time with your family. Then she, a woman who was faithful for 24 fucking years, you asshole, hears from your ex-wife that you never have been. She’s been thrown into your life and she needs a little time to process it. Shit! She hasn’t been on tour with us or at shows or really even seen how the public reacts to you. She’s just been thrown into the deep end and you’re having a freakin’ hissy fit because she wants a little time to adjust?”

Jon still had no words, but he was listening intently.

“And just so you know, bro’, you call that amazing woman a bitch again and the next time I’ll knock your ass to the floor!”

Jon actually started to laugh softly. “You’ve been pissed for a while, haven’t you?”

“Goddam right I have, I…” His cell phone rang.

“Amanda? Honey, where are you? Okay, I know that place…I’m at Jon’s…Manda…okay, I’ll come by myself, but…no, he’s standing right here…Manda, please, talk to…”

“Fuck! She hung up!”

Grabbing his shoulder, Jon asked harshly, “Where is she?”

“Dave’s coffee shop. Said she got cold and she just wanted to sit somewhere warm and think.”

Jon moved to grab his coat, but Richie stopped him.

“Let me talk to her first, okay?”

Shoulders slumping, Jon nodded his assent. “You better fuckin’ call me quick or I’m heading over there!”

“I got it.”

They spent the next hour touring the house and grounds. He talked a lot about his kids and what they would do in this area or that and she just listened, learning more and more about the man behind the myth.

“Your home is really so welcoming and comfortable, Jon. It must be hard to leave it sometimes.”

“Yeah, but I have to admit it’s a lot less lonely right now.”

She smiled sweetly at him and linked her hand in his.

As they approached the front of the house from the grounds, a large car entered through the gate and Jon could see it was Dot and the kids. Amanda quickly let go of his hand and made a move to go inside the house. He started to stop her.

“Jon, I shouldn’t be here right now. Come get me if you want,” her smile was warm, “I’ll be right inside.”

He nodded at her, surprised at Dot just coming over with the kids, even though he had told her he was home. The doors to the car opened and three kids came out to see their father. Dot was getting Romeo out of his car seat, however, Jon had been reading her body language for years and knew she had seen Amanda and she was not pleased.

Jake and Jesse gave their dad hugs, although it was more of a man shrug from Jesse as he was moving a bit past the “hug dad” stage. Stephanie waited until her brothers were done and moved into her dad’s arms. Finally, Romeo was out of the seat and running to his dad as quickly as he could. Scooping his youngest son up, Jon swung him around and then kissed his still baby cheek. He eyed his ex-wife, a small smile on his face.

“Hey, Dot! Thanks for bringing the kids over so soon. I really missed these monsters.”

There was a slight tone in her voice as she answered him. “Hi, Jon. We’re on our way out, but the kids wanted to come see you. Did we come at a bad time?”

“Not at all. I want to see them as much as I can while I’m home for a bit.”

The kids moved into the house, each either using a bathroom, getting a drink, or retrieving a previously forgotten item from their room. Jon and Dot came in, but Amanda was nowhere to be seen. He tried unobtrusively to look for her, however, Dot had also been reading his body language for years.

Speaking quietly so as not to be overheard by the kids, she asked “So, who is she, Jon?”

“I met her in Florida, near Tico’s. Her name is Amanda.”

“Is she going to be here long?”

“Dot, this is one of the things we need to talk about, but not now, with the kids here and time so short, okay?”

Almost harshly, Dot whispered, “I do not want your latest piece around my children!”

Jon responded in the same tone. “They’re OUR children and she’s not like that, dammit! She’s almost my age, Dot, and …”

“Dad! Dad!” They heard Jesse calling from the kitchen.

Walking to the kitchen, they found the kids getting drinks from the fridge and talking to Linda. Jon saw again that Amanda was nowhere in sight.

“What’s up, big guy?”

“Linda’s making a roast and says there’s enough for all of us. Can we stay? Mom? Can we have dinner here?”

The three adults in the room exchanged a look. Jon was torn between wanting to be with his children and finding out where the hell Amanda had gone. He made a decision.

“Linda, if there’s enough, let’s get the table set for us all, okay?

She nodded at Jon as the kids let out “alrights!”.

Turning to Dot, he asked her if she had a minute to talk to him. She followed him from the kitchen and they entered his spacious office. Jon closed the door, but both barely entered and neither sat. He knew he had to have this conversation with her, but didn’t think it would happen quite this soon.

He gave her an abbreviated version of the events of the last week. She nearly vibrated with anger, most of it to do with another woman around her children. He tried to explain that this wasn’t just an extended one night stand, that Amanda really meant something to him, but the thought that this woman was here, in her former home, with her children there, made her a little less able to listen to reason.

Trying for a conciliatory gesture, Jon reached for her shoulders.

“Don’t you fucking touch me!” she ground out.

“What is wrong with you?” he demanded.

“Don’t you think I know, Jon, that I ALWAYS knew!?” She looked at him with scorn.

He looked at her, wondering where her venom was coming from after all this time.

“Dot, I didn’t lie to you…” he started.

“No, of course you didn’t. You evaded, you changed the subject, you assured me that you loved me. Do you really think I don’t know how much you fucked around on the road? Don’t you know there was ALWAYS someone who felt the need to call me or email me and tell me you had some twenty-something back in your dressing room? Or that you left the after-show party with some groupie? Did you really think that the ‘brotherhood’ extended to ALL the members of your crew?” Her voice was hoarse with her anger.

He shook his head slowly. He had never realized the depth of her rage.

“Look at me, Jon,” she demanded, as he raised his head to her. “I had two, TWO, lovers during our marriage. One that lasted only a short time as I realized he only wanted to fuck Jon Bon Jovi’s wife and the second is Eric. He doesn’t care who you are, he only cares who I am. Can you say the same?” She pointed at him.

“Not only do I doubt it, I know!” she shot at him. “You have never been able to keep your pants zipped for any real length of time and now you are bringing them around our children! I won’t have it! You aren’t my husband anymore, so you can screw around all you want, but DON’T bring your current whatever around our kids!”

Jon’s anger at her words was rising. “Dot, this isn’t like that! I have never brought anyone around our kids before and you know it!” He raked his hand through his hair and turned again to her.

He tried to soften his voice as he spoke to his ex-wife. “Dorothea, I know what I did to you and to our marriage. I know what I lost by my own actions. There aren’t any excuses I can give you. I can only say I’m sorry. I am so damn sorry.”

“I’m sorry too, Jon,” Dorothea’s voice was softer now, “I really did love you, but it was all too much. I needed someone with me all the time and there was no way you could do that and still be who you are. It’s my fault as much as yours, but it’s done now.”

She asked again, “Who is that woman to you?”

“Dot, she’s going to be in my life and I’m gonna want her to meet the kids. I wanted to tell you first, that’s why I said we needed to talk.”

She took a sharp breath at that, but then managed a wan smile. “You never could stand being alone, could you?”

“I’ve been alone for a long time,” he said softly and at that Dot herself winced. “I almost destroyed myself after our divorce. She brought me back.”

“If that’s what you want, Jonny,’ she nodded softly, “then you should go and be happy. I’m sorry I called her names. I was hurting and trying to hurt you.”

“Oh, Dot, we have to make it work for our kids’ sake. Let’s just do the best we can, okay? I’ll accept Eric and you accept Amanda.”

Dot’s anger seemed to leak away as she really looked at her ex-husband. Over the last several months since their divorce she had seen how he had closed himself off and she had been kept abreast of his destructive behavior. Now, his eyes were bright and there was a look in them that she had not seen in his eyes for her for a long time. She felt a true sense of loss that he would never look at her that way again, but also a strange sense of peace, as if she could put some of her hurt and anger behind her and begin her life with Eric without the larger-than-life shadow of Jon hanging over them.

“Come on, babe, let’s get these bags upstairs and settled in or I’ll have to face Linda’s wrath!” They lugged the bags upstairs and to Jon’s bedroom. Looking into a large suite-like room, Amanda hesitated at the door, wondering if this was the room Jon had shared with his ex-wife. Jon, always attuned to Amanda, said quietly, “This is another room I had re-done. I couldn’t keep things the way they were before.”

“Is my face that transparent?” she asked with wonder.

“No, it’s just that if we were at your house I would know it was the room you had shared with your husband and I would have feelings about that, so I just wanted to let you know.”

She kissed him softly. “Thanks honey.”

He showed her where she could put her foldaway clothes and the large closet where she could hang whatever she wanted. With both of them working together, Amanda was quickly unpacked. She ran her hands over a few of the items in his closet, most of them consisting of shirts and vests, with a few very formal dress clothes mixed in. She laughed softly.

“You have more clothes than I do…” she chuckled.

“Well, if I had my choice I would be in a t-shirt and jeans all the time, but it doesn’t always work out that way.”

“Do you hate always having to be “on” when in public, Jon?”

“Sometimes. The hard part is when I am trying to do something just like a normal person and someone spots me. If they are quiet and just want to say hello or get an autograph, it’s okay, but when they start the screaming and draw a crowd, well, that still bugs the shit outta me.”

He continued…”I don’t think I mentioned this yet, but the band has a benefit concert coming up this week at Giant’s stadium.”

“Oh my God! Your home crowd, hmm?” She laughed.

“Oh yeah, Giant’s is always a blast. We really have a good time there.”

“I’ll bet your concerts are great…” she stated, not quite realizing what she was admitting.

“You’ve never been to one?” He was a bit surprised.

“Uh, no, does that mean you’re throwing me back onto a plane and sending me home?” she asked with a twinkle in her eye.

“No way, sweet girl, but it does mean you’re going to have some fun!” He really wanted her to see this side of him as he had no plans on stopping it any time soon.

“I really want you to meet the rest of the guys and for them to meet you.” He was also thinking about the apologies he owed to David and Hugh for being such an ass for so long. “They’re going to love you!”

“You seem so sure of that. How can you know what they’ll think of me?”

“You’ve already won over Tico and Richie, and as I’m coming to realize, everyone you meet, so I have no worries about this.” He grinned wickedly at her. “Besides, when Richie tells them about the wooden spoon they won’t dare try anything!”

She laughed loudly at that – “Oh my God! I’m never gonna live that down, am I?”

He threw back his head and laughed with her – “No way, babe, especially since Richie knows you brought the spoon!”

“I know, I know, but I just couldn’t resist…he’s so much fun to tease. I’m so glad to have him and Tico for friends. You do think they are my friends now, don’t you?” she asked a little apprehensively.

“Babe, Richie and Tico would walk through fire for you, even if you weren’t with me.”

“I really like them both and I’m so glad to have met them,” she said quietly. “And, Jon…as much as I’m overwhelmed to have your love, thank you for also being my friend.”

Again, Amanda had a way of cutting through all the crap that came with his stardom and her simple words filled his heart.


They heard a voice calling them and they returned to the kitchen area to find several tasty cheeses, fruits, and breads that Linda had thoughtfully provided.

Amanda’s spontaneous comments at seeing what Linda had done were genuine. “Oh, Linda, this looks so good! Thank you so much!” She nodded her thanks at Amanda and threatened unconvincingly to whap Jon with a towel when he tried to twirl her around.

“Go on with your bad self, young man. I’ve got a roast in for dinner, so you have a few hours until then.”

Immediately Amanda offered to help in anyway she could, but she was informed everything was under control. Jon couldn’t help but notice Linda’s nod of approval towards him with regard to Amanda. “Well, if there is anything I can, please let me know. I’m great at washing dishes!” Linda’s smile grew even wider and after thanking her, she moved off to continue her preparations.

Jon and Amanda attacked the food that lay there so enticingly, both making “mmm” sounds at the wonderful tastes. Jon spoke to Linda as she worked around them in the kitchen.

“Lin, I want Amanda to feel completely at home here, so…” he began, but she interrupted.

“…so, since you’re a guy and likely not to consider what a woman might want to know, you want me to help you out?” She finished with a grin.

“Yes, ma’am, I sure would appreciate it.” He flashed his megawatt smile at her and shaking her head at his antics, she assured him she would be happy to show Amanda anything she needed.

“Thank you, Linda, I would greatly appreciate any help you have time for…” was Amanda’s thoughtful response. “Also, please let me know if there’s anything I can do to help you, okay?”

“Sure, honey, thanks for the offer.” Linda’s genuine smile towards Amanda showed her thorough approval.

Finishing their snack, Jon showed Amanda his office and then told her he had some calls to make.

“Do you mind if I grab a quick shower while you make your calls?”

“Honey, do what you want and stop asking permission. Remember what Tico said – ‘mi casa, su casa?’ – well, that applies even more here. Got it?”

She snapped him a sassy salute and a “yes sir!” before moving off to their room to get cleaned up.

Jon called Dot to let him know he was here and to check on Romeo’s fever. He seemed to be getting better, but she was still keeping his activities to a minimum. He was able to talk to his other kids, telling him he would see them very soon. A quick check with Richie confirmed he would be at his mom’s for a few days and they discussed the upcoming concert. He reached Tico who said he would fly in the day before and stay at Jon’s. David and Hugh, after an initial bit of hesitation at Jon’s call considering his mood of the last several months, could tell a few minutes into the conversation that something had changed with Jon. He told them both that he wanted to talk to them soon and ended both conversations with thanks for their support and assurances that things were better with him.

He spent about an hour checking on operations with The Soul, checking arrangements for the concert at Giant’s, and some of his other various business ventures. He finally left the office to look for Amanda as she had not returned. He found her in the kitchen working along side Linda to prepare some parts of the dinner. He laughed to himself. Linda was usually a tiger in defending her territory and seeing her allowing Amanda to help was the biggest indication yet that Amanda had won her over.

He walked in and put his arms around Amanda, who leaned back against him in response.

“Did you get all your business stuff taken care of?” she questioned.

“Yeah, all the major stuff. There are always details, but they’ll wait until things get closer.”

Linda turned to them – “Okay, scoot you two. Amanda, thanks for your help, but things are good now. Make Jon take you on a tour so you can find more than the kitchen and the bedroom.” She turned a wicked grin to Jon to let him know that she knew he would be happy to just have her in those two rooms.

They landed at roughly 4 pm, Richie having slept the entire way much to the dismay of the female flight crew. It seemed all the working females on board had managed to find a reason to come to First Class to take a look at the two rock stars. Jon was pretty much left alone as he never took his hands off Amanda. He was touching her knee, her shoulder, her face, kissing her, cupping her cheek, and (she thought to herself giggling), generally marking his territory. Or making sure it was known he was off limits.

They were quickly ushered off the plane before the other passengers and into a private gate for VIPs. All of this was new to Amanda and she made big eyes at the special treatment afforded the three of them. Richie had finally slept enough that his hangover was completely gone and he grinned wickedly at her wide-eyed looks at what they had become so accustomed to. Draping his arm around her shoulder, he gave her wide eyes back and she squinted at him threateningly.

“Now, darlin’, you didn’t really bring that wooden spoon, did ya?” he grinned.

She returned her own wicked grin and reaching into her bag, she pulled out the spoon she had filched from Tico’s kitchen. His roar of laughter made Jon turn around to see what had happened and seeing the spoon in Amanda’s hand, he threw back his head laughing as hard as Richie. Amanda calmly put the spoon back in her carry-on and threw Richie her best “school marm” look.

“Just don’t provoke me, Richard…” she told him in a scolding tone.

Richie grinned even further and shooting a look at Jon, couldn’t resist.

“Hey, bro’, if she finds another use for that spoon, I ain’t making any promises.”

“Man, if she finds another use for that spoon, I ain’t tellin’…” Jon grinned wickedly in return.

Amanda blushed furiously then, getting the reference and remembering Jon’s hand on her ass during one of their lovemaking sessions. Jon saw her blush and his full smile and the light in his eyes told her he remembered every bit of that encounter too. Laughing, they exited to where a limo was waiting, their luggage already loaded.

“You’re staying with us, right man?” Jon asked Richie.

“Yeah, since I sold my house here, but first I’m gonna go visit my mom. She’s been having it a bit rough since dad died.”

“Oh, Richie, I’m so thoughtless! I should have told you how sorry I was about that,” Amanda cried out.

“Thanks, babe. It was really rough there for a while with everything that happened, but it does ease a bit with time.”

With Jon and Richie pointing out different local sites to Amanda, the ride to Richie’s mother’s house passed quickly and soon they were exchanging hugs and Amanda got to meet his mother. She was a lovely woman and it was apparent how much she adored her big strapping son. Mrs. Sambora also engulfed Jon in a hug and looked at him carefully. They chatted while Richie showed Amanda where she could freshen up for a moment.

“You have a new girl there, son?” she asked.

“Yes, ma’am, I sure do,” he smiled at her.

“I like her, Jon. She’s different. She’s…” Mrs. Sambora struggled for a moment to find the right word.

“She’s real,” Jon supplied.

“Yes, that she is. Does she know what a ride she’s in for with you?” she asked in a determined response.

“Momma S, she’s not along for a ride. I’m keeping her.” Jon said as he turned his megawatt smile on Richie’s mother, who swatted him on the shoulder.

“Don’t turn that charm on me. If it doesn’t work for my son, it’s not going to work for you!” she scolded him. “You be good to her, Jonny.”

“I will…and I know you too, you’ll be dragging all sorts of details outta Richie, so don’t think you can charm me either!” He picked her up in his arms to swing her around. She laughed at her “other” son’s antics. Richie and Amanda returned to their laughter and a warm hug good-bye from Mrs. Sambora.

Settling back into the limo, Amanda grinned at Jon. “Is there is a single woman on the planet you can’t charm?”

“Oh yeah, Richie’s mom and my own…they never let me get away with anything!”

“Better add me to that list, buddy, I’m working hard at resisting your charms!” she grinned her reply.

“Oh really?” he cocked an eyebrow at her, “you’re gonna resist my charms?”

Folding her arms firmly over her chest, she gave a determined nod and said, “Yep!”

In the fastest movement she had seen from Jon yet, he grabbed her legs, flipped her on her back on the seat and moved between her thighs before she had even taken a full breath. His hardness pressed against her softness and he pinned her hands above her head, grabbing a handful of hair for good measure.

“Jon!” He heard her hoarse cry. She turned to look at the driver, but the glass was up. Jon reached for the barrier lock with one hand, still holding her down, and grinned evilly at her. He began unbuttoning her shirt and she struggled against him, although in truth she wasn’t trying very hard. He popped the clasp on her bra and his mouth moved to one of her nipples. She gasped and arched, warmth immediately filling where his hardness was pressed against her. He nuzzled both breasts, feeling her respond to him, gradually loosening his grip on her hands which immediately rose to grab his hair and pull him even closer to her.

Fire roared to life as both moved to get rid of enough clothes to consummate their raging need. Amanda’s pants were removed, Jon’s dropped enough to expose that gorgeous ass where Amanda could dig her hands and nails in to pull him closer. Her moan as he entered her in one harsh demanding thrust was muffled by his mouth on hers as he rode her frantically. Their mating was almost wild in its demand of the other and by the time both had crested there was only ragged breathing and the pounding of two hearts against the other.

They lay there for a few moments, stunned at the need that had swept over them both.

“Oh my God, I wish you could know how it feels to be inside you.” Jon’s passion filled voice filled her ears.

“I wish you could now know it feels to have you inside me,” was her equally hoarse response.

They heard the driver announcing they would be at Jon’s home in ten minutes and they quickly dressed and composed themselves as best they could. Nothing could hide the flush of Amanda’s face though, or the sated look in Jon’s eyes.

They pulled up to the gated drive where Jon punched in his code and the gates swung open. A few moments later Amanda got a look at the place Jon called home. Her eyes were wide. Her entire home would fit in his garage. The driver helped them take the bags inside and inquired if Mr. Bon Jovi would need his services any further that evening.

“No, Chuck, we’ll be staying in tonight. I’ll call again when we need you. Thanks for everything man,” as he discretely tipped the driver.

Taking Amanda’s arm, he brought her back into the main foyer and sweeping her into his arms, he said huskily, “Welcome to my home, my love. Thanks for coming with me.”

“Thanks for asking me. I’m…sorta stunned here, Jon…” she gestured around her.

“You’ll get the full tour, I promise, but right now I have to let my housekeeper know I’m back so she doesn’t get any surprises.” He pulled out his cell and speed dialed Linda, the woman who had been there almost since he had bought this house. Amanda heard him say, “Okay, sweetie, see you in a few minutes.”

“She’s coming now?” Amanda asked a little shakily, hearing rapidly approaching footsteps.

“Mr. B, welcome back!” the sixty-ish woman replied came with genuine warmth.

Jon swept her up in a hug. “What have I told you, Linda, it’s Jon…”

“Sure thing, Mr. B.” He laughed at her tart response. Her eyes moved to Amanda.

“Amanda, I would like you to meet the woman who makes my crazy life run a lot more smoothly. This is Linda.” He smiled at the two women.

Extending her hand and with a warm smile on her face, Amanda replied, “I’m so pleased to meet you, Linda.”

Linda met her hand with a firm grip of her own and turning to Jon, she remarked cryptically, “It’s about damn time!” Jon shook his head at her and she returned his mild rebuke without a bit of worry. Turning to them both, she asked, “Dinner in tonight?”

“Yeah, we had an early flight. Do you have a few snacks before dinner later?” he smiled at her winningly.

“You and your stomach…don’t know why there isn’t an extra inch on you the way you eat…” she mock grumbled at him.

“Linda!” came his bark of laughter.

“Go on with you now, get your lady settled in. I’ll let you know when there is food ready.”

Jon kissed her cheek and she shushed him away. “Go! You know that doesn’t work with me!”

Amanda laughed out loud then. “Another one who doesn’t fall for your charms, Jon?”

Linda looked at her and grinned. “I don’t work for ‘rock stars’, I work for people.”

“Oh, Linda, I do hope we’ll be friends. I like you already,” was Amanda’s warmhearted response.

Giving her a look full of unspoken meaning, Linda nodded, “I think we will honey,” and then she moved off as quickly as she had arrived.

Jon looked at Amanda with amazement. “Holy Hell! How did you do that? You already won her over!”

“I think she’s great, Jon, you’re really lucky to have her.”

Pulling her into his arms, he kissed her softly, “Nah, love, I’m lucky to have you.”

Amanda was waiting in bed when Jon came into the room. She gave him a warm and inviting smile, turning back his side of the covers so he could come to bed with her. He held up a “one minute” finger and made his way to the bathroom. He returned to her quickly, sliding next to her warmth, wrapping his arms around her and breathing her in. She buried her face in his chest, also taking in his scent. Slowly and gently he touched her and their lovemaking before sleep left them contented and secure.

The blaring of the alarm woke Amanda and Jon at 7:30 Saturday morning and they both groaned. She snuggled closer to him for a moment and then with an impish grin announced she got the shower first. Binding him in the bedclothes, she scrambled out and rushed into the bathroom as Jon’s curses sounded behind her. Laughing to herself, she grinned at her narrow escape, knowing that if he got his hands on her they would definitely be late for the plane!

Jon entered the bathroom soon afterwards as she was completing shaving. Maybe I should go for a wax job came the sudden idea, this damn shaving every day is getting old! She thought that perhaps she could find the time in New Jersey to have it done, although she really didn’t want to ask Jon where to go. Hell, I know how to use a phone book, she thought. She knew this wasn’t a big deal to a lot of women, but for her it would be a first. No full wax, she grrr’d under her breath, damn if I’m gonna look like a 12 year old. Then she gave a small giggle as Jon didn’t seem to mind that she had womanly looks.

The limo was waiting as a grumpy Richie slumped against the wall as they came downstairs. He already had sunglasses on even though he was still in the house and a small giggle escaped Amanda at his obvious distress. He lowered the glasses on his nose enough to give her a look that told her the pool was close enough to throw her in if she so much as uttered one word. Shaking her head “no” she and Jon brought the rest of the bags down.

After loading the car, they settled back for the short ride to the Palm Beach International Airport. No sooner had the car doors shut than Richie groaned and leaned his head back.

“Fuck! I need coffee! he moaned.

“I know there’s a Starbucks at the airport” Amanda offered helpfully.

“Thank God!” he mumbled and a few moments later they heard soft snores.

She glanced at Jon in amazement and he laughed quietly, telling her Richie could sleep any time and anywhere. They spoke softly so as not to disturb him, with Jon telling her a bit about his home and where he lived.

“…after the divorce Dot wanted to move somewhere a bit smaller, even though I told her she could keep the house where the kids had been growing up. I figure Eric didn’t want to live there, so she found a place and moved about ten minutes away.”

She took his hand in hers. “It must be really hard going back there under those circumstances, but I would imagine the kids appreciate coming to see you and having their old rooms waiting.”

“Yeah, I know it, but it still sucks,” he shook his head, “I fucked up bad with Dot, Manda, I…” he trailed off, not knowing quite what to say.

Squeezing his hand with hers, she smiled at him. “Jon, you only have to tell me what you want to, okay?”

“I know that, babe, but I want to share things about my life with you. It helps that you’re giving me the time to do it in my own way.”

“Jon, there is still so much we don’t know about each other. I know more about you than you do about me, although I admit my life has not been quite as exciting as yours!” came her soft response.

“Hey! Shit! That reminds me, do you have a passport?” he asked suddenly.

“No, never needed one. Why?” She wondered.

Jon was already on his cell talking to his assistant, telling her to get the papers together for Amanda to get a passport as soon as possible.

“Jon! Why do I need a passport?” she demanded in a whisper so as not to wake Richie.

“Because honey, where I go, you go,” she heard his determined voice.

“Oh really?” she laughed. “That might cause a problem in the men’s room!”

Before he could answer the driver informed them they were at the gate for departures and a sudden flurry of activity ensued. Their luggage was handed over to curbside check in and a few moments later an airline employee came rushing through the automatic doors.

“Mr. Bon Jovi?” the man asked, looking at Jon.

“Yes?”

“We need to get you through security and onto the plane prior to the other passengers, so if there is any way we could proceed…” the man trailed off, not wanting to have a pissed off celebrity complaining about him.

“Rich – move it man! Gotta get on the plane!” Jon elbowed Richie in the ribs to get his ass in gear.

“I need fuckin’ coffee, man, like NOW!” Richie grouched.

Jon turned to the airline rep, reading his nametag, “Mark, can we stop at the Starbucks on the way to the plane?”

Looking at his watch which now showed 9:30, Mark asked if he could get them to the plane and bring their coffee to them. Jon understood that passengers would be boarding in moments, if they weren’t already, and nodded. As they walked through security, Jon rattled off coffee orders as the man took quick notes.

Both Richie and Jon were wearing their baseball caps and sunglasses, but their clothing and their mere presence still screamed “sex on legs”. Even unrecognized for who they were, Amanda noticed the lingering looks following the men as Mark hurried them to the plane. The main cabin curtain was closed for a moment to allow the three to enter First Class and Amanda gasped a little at the spaciousness of the accommodations. Knowing the cramped conditions behind them, she laughed a little and whispered to Jon.

“THIS I could get used to…” she giggled.

“Good! You’re gonna need to…” Jon replied cryptically.

Richie sprawled out in the aisle seat across from Jon and Amanda, where Jon had urged her to take the window seat. As soon as their butts hit the seats, flight attendants were fawning over both Richie and Jon, offering drinks, breakfast, coffee, and probably their phone numbers, Amanda thought feeling a little grumpy herself. Jon’s hand curled around hers and brought it to his lips to kiss. She curled her head against his shoulder, feeling warm inside that he had seen through her insecurities to calm them down.

A much-harried Mark brought Starbucks to the three a few minutes later. Richie curled around his coffee like it was plasma and actually groaned. Jon and Amanda sipped theirs and laughed softly. Richie’s shades were again lowered slightly to glare at them. Amanda smiled sweetly at him and in a soft voice whispered across the aisle.

“I brought that wooden spoon…” She then burst into laughter at the widening of his eyes before the shades went back up and the shaking of his head began.

About an hour into the flight Jon excused himself to use the bathroom. It was at the front of First Class, a few rows ahead of where they were sitting. Amanda saw one of the flight attendants following Jon with her eyes and when he came out of the bathroom, she was artfully blocking the aisle. Whatever words were spoken were so quiet Amanda couldn’t hear them, but she saw Jon shake his head no, give the woman a small smile instead of his megawatt one, and move around her to return to his seat. She waited to see what, if anything, he would tell her.

He gave a small chuckle before telling her sotto voice, “At least that one took no for an answer gracefully.” She looked at his questioningly. “It happens, baby, some people thing I’m public property and they’d be happy to notch their belt with a rock star. I outgrew that shit a long time ago.” She smiled at him then, his honesty helping to build a further trust in their relationship.

They settled back, Jon again talking about his home and what they would be doing in Jersey. He also told her he wanted to see his kids as much as possible and at her soft “I would be surprised if you didn’t”, he smiled.

“I have to talk to Dot more too. I told her about the pictures she might see from the Habitat function we went to, but I have to let her know more about you.”

“Are you sure that’s the right thing to do, Jon?” she asked a little apprehensively.

“Manda, are your feelings for me going to change? Do you think mine are for you?” his gaze was strong.

“No, I didn’t expect this and wasn’t looking, but…” she began as he interrupted.

“Well, I wasn’t looking that’s for damn sure and I think I might even have expected it less than you did.” Jon interjected.

She tried again, “It’s just that it’s so new and most people would think it’s too fast for us to feel this way.”

“I know that, but I also know what I want. I knew the next morning, when you stood there shaking, not able to meet my eyes, but then you asked me to take you. I knew then I was never going to let you go.” His blue eyes were filled with emotion as he spoke to her.

She blushed at the reminder of her boldness that morning, but she regretted nothing.

Packing did not go as quickly as it could have as they couldn’t seem to stop reaching out a hand to touch or pausing for a kiss. Finally, everything was ready and they wandered downstairs to see what Richie was up to.

He heard them coming down and they heard from the kitchen, “Hey, you two want a beer?”

“Yeah, sounds good, man, thanks!” Jon called back.

Bringing three beers into the living room, Richie’s devil was back.

“Manda, honey?” he asked in a sweet tone.

She turned to him, “Yes?”

“Promise me something?”

“Sure, what’s that?”

“On the plane tomorrow…” he grinned hard now, “…don’t let Jon talk you into joining the Mile High Club…”

She stared open-mouthed at him wondering where the hell he was going with this. Jon, on the other hand, knew exactly where Richie was going.

“Uh, Mandy…” Jon started.

She turned to him. “Yes?” She kept turning back and forth between the two men. She knew what the Mile High Club was, but she couldn’t imagine why Richie would bring it up.

Clearing his throat and throwing Richie a “you are so fucking dead” look, Jon pulled Amanda to him and said quietly in her ear…”You’re loud, honey!”

She gasped, turned beet red, and started looking for something to throw at Richie. He saw her looking around and got to his feet faster than she had ever seen him move. His laughter didn’t stop as she took off after him through the kitchen and out into the back yard, grabbing the wooden spoon on the way.

Jon followed, yelling “Don’t kill him, Manda, I need my lead guitarist!”

He heard in the distance “You’d better start looking for a new one!”

Suddenly he heard maniacal laughter from Richie, a scream from Amanda, and a loud splash.

Running to the pool, he saw Amanda come to the surface, hair completely covering her face, wooden spoon still clutched in one hand. Trying to clear her hair from her eyes and laughing hysterically, she managed to find the stairs out of the pool. Richie made sure to keep on the opposite side of the pool from her. He could not stop laughing as had surprised her badly by suddenly turning around to grab her as they neared the pool again and tossing her in.

Jon also couldn’t stop laughing at Amanda response. She climbed halfway out and then had to sit down on the edge as she was laughing too hard to move further.

Finally managing to settle down to hiccups, she looked Jon full in the face and grinned, waving the wooden spoon.

“I told ya Richie provokes me!”


Sitting on the couch, towel drying her hair after a quick chlorine-removing shower, she couldn’t stop the giggles that kept escaping. Richie remained a little wary on the opposite couch, but couldn’t keep the shit-eating grin off his face. Jon kept giving little jerks that meant he was trying not to bust out into a belly laugh. He also had a mile wide grin on.

She finally glared enough at the two that they tried to hide the grins, but in truth failed miserably. She gave up. They were two of the biggest kids in grown men’s bodies that she knew and she just loved them.

“What time is the flight tomorrow?” Richie managed to get out with only a slight laugh in his voice.

“10 AM. The limo will be here at 9:00. It’s a straight thru flight and I have another car meeting us there. We should be at my house by 6 at the latest, depending on traffic.”

“Well, I’m gonna have one more beer, then lock my door and go to bed.” Richie grinned at Amanda.

He heard her mumble – “…better lock the damn door…”. Jon gathered her hand in his and threw his best friend a wink.

“Come on, give it up Manda, he won tonight’s round.”

She tried to scowl at Richie, but just seeing him sitting there acting so pleased with himself after what he had gone through in the past few days warmed her heart. She walked over to him and he theatrically covered his private parts. She laughed out loud at that.

“Richie! I never threatened the family jewels!”

“Yeah, well, just being cautious. I never threw you in a pool either!”

She leaned in and kissed his cheek, moving to his ear, “I love seeing your real smile again…you can throw me in a pool anytime!”

Jon saw Richie look a little stunned as Amanda moved away and he wondered what she had said. She touched Jon’s cheek and moved up the stairs.

Richie turned his eyes on his brother as Jon asked, “What did she say to you, man? You look a little like she smacked you.”

“She said she loved seeing my real smile again, that I could throw her in a pool anytime.”

“Now you know a little more why I’m never letting her go.”

“You’ve never been that stupid, my man.”

They returned back to Tico’s to pack, but they all needed a quick snack before tackling that job. While Amanda and Richie made loaded omelets, Jon called Dot from the upstairs bedroom.

“Hi, Jon” came his ex-wife’s greeting.

“Hi. How is everyone?”

“All good, although Romeo has been running a bit of a fever today,” she informed him.

“Is he okay? Just normal kid stuff?”

“As far as I know, but I’ll let you know if anything changes.”

“Dot, I wanted to let you know I’m coming back to Jersey tomorrow and I want to see the kids as much as possible.”

“You know you can always see them, but they’re pretty involved with after school activities.”

“Will you let me know what their schedules are so I can get together with them,” he asked softly.

“Sure, they’ll love to see you,” she hesitated, then asked, “Are you doing okay, Jonny?”

“Yeah, I am. Richie’s coming too. Tico’s down in the Keys at an art festival and won’t be back for another few days. I don’t think he’ll be coming to Jersey as he wanted some serious R&R.”

“Well, with you and Richie, where there’s one, there’s the other,” she actually laughed.

“I know it…Dot, when I get there I’d like to talk to you too, okay?”

“Jon, if this is about Eric…” she began.

“It is a little, but not in a bad way, I swear. I just need to talk to you about some things. Please make time for it, alright?”

“Okay. I can do that. I’m sorry, but none of the kids are here right now except Romeo and he’s sleeping.”

“No problem. I’ll see them tomorrow. And, Dot…thanks,” Jon said as a good-bye.


Hearing his name being called, he came downstairs to find the omelets ready along with a bottle of wine that Amanda had remembered he liked. During their snack Amanda thanked Jon profusely for the things he had bought her, as well as thanking Richie for coming along to help.

“I haven’t been up north for so long I forgot how much cold weather stuff was needed. I probably wouldn’t have gotten enough except for you two, so thanks!” She sipped her wine as they acknowledged her thanks. Dishes were a breeze to clean up and they all went their separate ways to pack afterwards.

Jon roughly threw his items into his bag and went to Amanda’s room. He heard the shower running and locking the door he stripped down to join her. He was so quiet this time she actually squeaked in surprise when his hands grabbed her waist from behind. Pressing himself against her, he spoke, his voice husky in her ear.

“Do you know how fucking long this day has been?” He nuzzled her neck and let his hands start to wander over her skin. He more firmly pressed his erection against her rear as she felt herself flame to his touch.

“I want you. I need to have you underneath me, bucking your hips, taking me in harder with each stroke until I’m buried so deep inside you I don’t know where you end and I begin.”

Jon spoke these words in a hoarse whiskey-tinged voice that started deep shudders in Amanda. Her knees felt weak and she turned to take his mouth with hers, pressing her breasts against his fur, feeling the rock hard erection she was now desperate to have inside her.

They made it to the floor of the bathroom on the deep pile rug. Still dripping wet, Jon’s grip was bruising as he positioned her to receive him. The shower had removed some of her natural wetness and his thrust inside her caused a scream that was part pain, part pleasure, and all ecstasy. She shuddered over and over again, her breasts arched, her head tossing, as Jon drove himself into her as deeply as he said he would. His arms straining, sweat now mixing with shower water, Jon moved himself out to the edge and then drove into her again and again, harder with each thrust, branding himself with her scent.

The third orgasm actually made Amanda lightheaded and she could only dig her nails into his ass, driving him further into her as her need overrode every rational thought she had. She heard his breathing change and his movements become quicker as he neared his release. He moaned her name as the explosion rocked him and fell on top of her as he lost the strength in his arms. She held him, crooning his name, stroking his hair, trying to come down from where he had taken her.

Her breathing slowing, Amanda managed to get out, “I can’t believe what you do to me.”

“I can’t get enough of being inside you, Manda. Hell, I can’t get enough of just being with you,” Jon rasped. “Every time is better than before…I…” he stopped as she placed a finger against his soft lips.

“Do you remember how you said you knew I didn’t want anything from you because of who you are?” came her question. He nodded.

“There is something I want…” He looked at her, incomprehension in his eyes.

“I’ve been with three men in my life and you are the third. I will never ask you because of who you are, but I will never believe in my heart that I am ‘the best’ at something or ‘you’ve never felt like this before’ because I do know who you are.”

Jon’s eyes actually flared at her for a moment and then he spoke.

“Okay, I listened to you, now you listen to me.” She nodded.

“You said you were with two men before me, right?” She nodded again.

“Was the second different than the first?”

“Yes, the second was Jeremy,” she answered, not sure where he was going.

“Why was the second different?” he continued.

“Because I loved…oh…” she said in a small voice.

“If I say something to you it’s not a comment on your technique, it’s because of the way you make me feel, the way I feel when I’m with you. Do you understand me?” His voice had roughened at the last. “Love makes it different, Manda, do you get it now?”

Tears flowed freely as she did understand what he meant. Her breath hitched as she breathed out in a whisper, “Oh God, I do love you!”

“I love you too, Manda. All you have to do is love me and let me love you.”

Amanda’s eyes had a strange look to them and both he and Richie were looking at her, trying to gauge her expression. They looked back and forth, both shrugging shoulders, and finally Amanda couldn’t hold it in any longer, she roared with laughter.

“It’s December, guys…” she grinned wolfishly. They nodded at her, they knew what month it was.

“I live in Florida…” she continued…and they nodded again, they knew this too.

She shook her head at the denseness of these two at times.

“IT’S NEW JERSEY!” she shouted, “IT’S FRICKIN’ COLD!” They still didn’t get it.

“Florida…coldest it gets is in the high 30’s…maybe three days a year.” More nodding, no understanding.

“Oh my God! Am I speaking English here?” she razzed them. They nodded, yes English.

“Okay, words of one syllable then…I DON’T HAVE ANY COLD WEATHER CLOTHES!” She could not possibly roll her eyes any higher.

Jon then grinned his own wolfish smile at her.

“Baby, you don’t need any clothes…” his leer growing.

“I don’t think they’re going to let me on the plane naked, Jon. And you, Sambora, not one word, you hear me?”

Richie backed up, shaking his head that no, not one word was going to come out of his mouth. His eyes twinkled though and he figured it was a whole lot of fun that Jon had his hands full with this one. She wouldn’t let him get away with any shit without giving him full measure right back. He thought it was good for Jon to have someone in his life, other than the guys in the band, who didn’t kiss his ass. He planned on keeping those thoughts to himself…at least for now.

Jon finally got it then. “This is a ploy for me to take you shopping again, isn’t it?” he grinned at her.

“I can shop for myself, thanks, but I can’t wear jeans and a t-shirt outdoors in December in New Jersey.”

“Ok, let me make a few phone calls and then we’ll go get some things.” He stopped then. “They do SELL warm clothes here don’t they?”

“Yeah, Wal-Mart always has stuff available.”

Richie raised his eyes at Jon at her ‘Wal-Mart’ comment and Jon just shook his head, telling Rich to let it go.

Amanda joined Richie watching the movie while Jon arranged for tickets and a limo to be waiting for their arrival. After roughly a half hour, everything was in place and he returned to the living room.

“Ok, I’ve been thinking. We need to get Amanda’s car outta hock and go get her some warm clothes. She probably needs to get some stuff from her house and then we need to come back here and pack. Teek already knows we’re gonna take off tomorrow and lock things up for him.”

“I’ve seen this movie a hundred times, mind if I tag along?” Richie questioned them.

“Nah, let’s roll though.”

They returned to the police department where there was a minimal staff as it was now almost 7 at night. Jon made payment arrangements, scowling down Amanda when she tried to pay. He also arranged for someone from Tico’s staff to get Amanda’s car and return it to her house.

That business taken care of, he directed Amanda to take them to the nearest mall.

Still thinking Wal-Mart, she told them there was no mall with a Wal-Mart. Jon just said, “Mall!” They made their way to The Gardens Mall in Palm Beach Gardens, about 15 minutes north of Palm Beach. Parking at Saks, Jon and Richie donned baseball caps and sunglasses as the three entered the department store.

Amanda laughed a little as they put on their disguises. “Not sure the whole “I’m not a rock star” is working for you boys.”

“Hey,” Richie flashed his grin at her, “we’re good at this as long as Kidd over there keeps his pearlies under wraps!”

“Fuck you, Sambora” was the mumbled response from “The Kidd”.

“I really can do this alone guys. Jon, there’s a Starbucks over there in that corner.” She tried to direct him that way.

“Didn’t we have this discussion before, Manda?” he asked her softly.

“Okay,” she grumbled mildly, “but don’t think you’re always going to get your way.” She heard Richie sniggering behind them and turned her scowl on him. “Listen, Richard,” she spoke low, “just because you’re bigger than me…” and she made a poking motion again. He backed up a few steps and she wasn’t sure, but she thought she heard something mumbled about “need to get some body armor…” before he turned completely innocent eyes her way.

She turned to Jon and halted him with a hand on his chest. “We’re picking the oldest woman here to help us, got it buddy?” before she turned dismissively to search for the oldest salesclerk. Jon laughed softly and told Richie what had happened the other day and what Amanda had done to put that woman in her place. They both laughed.

Jon and Richie oversaw all her purchases and she really did need their help as she had not been in northern weather for more years than she could remember. As the pile grew, she tried to explain that she only needed one coat for heaven’s sake. They just shook their heads at her and as they seemed to be having such a good time just being normal guys she let them have their way. Jeans, dress pants, warm socks, boots, hats, gloves, scarves, coats, sweaters, and more were gathered together.

All three had their arms laden with clothing as they approached a service desk. The woman who had been helping them was thrilled with her potential sales commission and kept showing the men more and more items.

“We need suitcases too,” Jon informed her and they moved onto that department. A matching set of luggage was picked out, even though Amanda stressed she had a few bags. He gave her a grin and a “hush” look and finally they were ready to check out. As they approached the counter, both men heard an “oh shit!” mumbled by Amanda. Looking around to see the problem, they realized that a woman probably in her late 30’s or early 40’s was at the counter helping another customer.

Amanda hissed to Jon, “let me pay, okay?”, but he just grinned at her and whipped out a credit card. She turned away and buried her face in Richie’s shoulder. Jon thought she was upset until he saw her shoulders shaking with laughter. Jon acted very casual as the woman prepared to ring up the massive amount of clothing and accessories, knowing from experience that either she would go nuts when she saw the name on the card or she would act professionally. He saw the older woman who had been helping them all along gently take the card from the other woman before she saw the name and ring up the purchases herself.

Bagging all the items and returning the card to Jon, the woman who had been helping them lowered her voice and discretely said, “It was a pleasure to help you all today.” Dropping her voice even lower, she looked at them directly. “I love your music.” Richie and Jon managed to keep their jaws from dropping and both thanked her for both her complements and her discretion. Amanda also thanked her as some of her selections had been truly beautiful. “Enjoy, my dear” came the response.