This and That...

I just wanted to thank everybody who comes and reads, I saw that I just reached the 2,000 hit mark with that last chapter. Thanks too, to all of you who leave me comments, I love reading them and what everybody thinks. I'll even admit that a couple of comments have swayed me one way or another when I wasn't sure which way to go! Special thanks to Bayaderra, I think you've commented on every chapter since you've been reading.

Also I probably won't be posting the rest of the week as I have Thanksgiving plans and a bunch of work to get caught up on, once everyone leaves over the weekend (stupid real life, lol). Who knows I may pop out a chapter sooner, but I'm not counting on it, should be something by the end of next week! But happy Turkey Day to every one in the US! And thanks as always for reading!

~Rachel

Chapter 30

Melissa heard the door click as Richie and Angela left. Their laughter grew fainter and Melissa and Jon were left in silence. Jon took her hand and finally spoke breaking the silence before it became awkward. “Can I play something for you?”

“Do you think you even have to ask,” Melissa said with a laugh.

“Don’t I always ask,” Jon said smiling, leading her over towards the piano.

“Oo, you’re gonna play the piano? I always thought that one of your sexiest performances was Bed of Roses from ‘An Evening with Bon Jovi.’ Seeing you move your fingers over the keys,” Melissa started, but stopped herself. “I am so sorry, I don’t know where that came from,” she said feeling her cheeks blush.

“I think I have an idea,” Jon said moving a wine glass from the edge of the piano.

“That probably had something to do with it. I’m not usually a big drinker,” Melissa said.

“I keep learning more and more about you. Now that I think of it I don’t think I’ve seen you drink more than one glass of wine, two tops. I think you exceeded that tonight,” Jon said sitting at the piano bench. “Here come sit with me,” he said patting the bench next to him.

“You do realize that this is a dream come true right,” Melissa said taking a seat.

“So no pressure, right,” Jon teased.

“Oh, please, if it’s better than my attempts, which you were lucky enough to miss, then I’m sold.”

“Well then,” Jon said as he let his fingers start to explore the keys. “I was in the studio the other day looking through some old stuff and I came across this song. I know it was released but I never really had anyone to sing it too, which is probably why I never played it live.”

Jon continued to play, as he spoke, keeping his eyes on the keys not looking at her. Melissa didn’t speak, not wanting to disrupt his thoughts. He had never really opened up to her like this. They had talked about everything, but there was something different in his demeanor tonight.

“I stopped writing love songs for my ex-wife some time around 2000. I know it sounds stupid because we had two more kids after that, but I never felt that urge to write a ballad for her. To show her how I loved her. I started to use this idea of a woman, a different one for each song, as I needed her. I had always hoped to meet the imaginary women that became my muses. When I found this song, I knew that I found her, and that woman is you. Melissa seven years before I met you, I wrote you a song, this song, and here I am to play it for you.”

He finally looked up, into her eyes. She saw him trying to fight back tears, but there was no sadness there rather hope. It was like looking deep within him and Melissa couldn’t believe how far into him she was finally getting a glimpse of. He stopped playing as his fingers found the right keys he began to play. When he started to sing it took Melissa a minute to place the song.

“I saw you coming from a mile away,
Trying to hide behind that pretty face.
Bet my last dollar baby you've been bruised,
Poor little heart, all black and blue.
Last thing you needs another pick-up line,
You must have heard them all a thousand times.
God only knows what you've been through,
Believe me I've been broken too.

It aches, it breaks, it takes your breath away.
I've been around that block a time or two.
Baby, I don't wanna fall in love with you
I try, try, try, But I can't get around the truth.
Please don't say my name, give this heart a break,
I don't wanna make the same mistakes.
It's too late, I'll leave on the light
These arms are open all night.”

Melissa had never listened closely to the lyrics to this song, but as she listened to the words, she saw the eerie parallels.

” I got your taste in the back of my mouth,
I wanna reach in and pull it out.
And I'd be lying if I didn't say,
When you're this close, I'm afraid.
The way I feel if I touch your hand,
The way I miss you when you're not there.
At night when I see you when I close my eyes,
It's too late, I crossed that line.

And it aches, it breaks, it takes your breath away.
But I'll still be around come closing time.
I don't wanna fall in love with you
I try, try, try, but I can't get around the truth.
Please don't say my name, give this heart a break,
I don't wanna make the same mistakes.
But it's too late, I'll leave on the light
These arms are open all night.”

If Melissa didn’t have the cd that the song was on she couldn’t believe that he had indeed written this song so long ago. Right here in this moment, Melissa believed that this song was written with her and only her in mind.

”It's two A.M. It's last call baby.
The barkeeps gone, I'll walk you home now.
Baby, I don't wanna fall in love with you
I try, try, try, but I can't get around the truth.
Please don't make me beg, give this heart a break,
Please don't make me make the same mistakes.
But it's too late, I'll leave on the light
These arms are open all night.”

As he finished the last measures of music, she felt a tear slide down her cheek. “That was beautiful,” she said in a whisper, “thank you.”

“I meant what I said. I know that you’ve been hurt, but I want to be here for you because I care about you. I care about you in a way that scares me because I never thought that a woman could make me happy again the way that you do. And I know I haven’t been perfect, I’ve made some mistakes and I’ll be damned if I’m gonna do the same thing twice,” Jon said turning to look her square in the eye.

Melissa was at a loss for words, as there were no words that could possibly describe what that meant to her. She did the only thing she could think of doing and leaned over and kissed him, wanting him to hold her, to touch her. Melissa reached back to brace herself but found the keys of the piano, which gave them a startled jolt.

“Come on, lets get off of here, before we start making too much noise and we get ourselves kicked outta here,” Jon said taking her hand.

“Like anyone’s gonna kick you outta anywhere,” Melissa said smiling and following him over to the couches.

“I’m not as invincible as you may think. For example, the die hard Giant’s fans don’t want to hear me blabbing about what I think, or the new cd, when they interview me at halftime. I guess I should be lucky that they don’t boo me off,” he said laughing as he sat on one of the couches and pulled her close.

“Will you talk to me,” Melissa asked softly.

“What do you think I’m doing,” he said. “Or am I just babbling like a fool?”

“No I mean, about you. You know a lot about me, but I don’t know about you. I mean I do, but not the important stuff,” Melissa said trying to read him.

“I’m sorry, you’re right. Was there something specific you wanted to know,” he asked her.

“I may be outta line, but will you tell me why you got divorced. I understand if you don’t want to talk about it, but Steph said something before, and what you said just now. It kinda leaves me curious.”

“What did she say,” Jon asked hesitantly. He knew his daughter had a lot of hostility for her mother, but never thought that she would dish that out to someone who was a virtual stranger to her.

“I told her I wouldn’t mention it, and I wouldn’t have if you didn’t say anything. But she left me with the impression that you were hurt by her.”

“I was hurt by her, but I’m not putting all the blame on her. From 2000 on we kinda started falling out of love. Neither one of us wanted to admit it, because we had been together so long. I think we were afraid of what would happen if we didn’t have each other. We went through all the motions, pretending that everything was ok. I mean we had two kids in that time; we were both in such denial. I think when we found out she was pregnant with Ro, we both knew in our hearts it was over. We did talk about it, but she didn’t want to hear it, because we had to try for the kids. I was skeptical of that from the start, how much is it helping the kids to be around parents who when they were around each other the tension could be cut with a knife. I don’t think the little ones could tell, but the older ones knew something was wrong.”

Jon had never talked to anyone aside from Richie like this before, but it felt liberating to let someone else in, to share his pain. He felt her soft hand on his cheek wipe away a tear that he was unaware he shed. How the hell did she bear her soul to me so soon after we met, he thought. He looked at her, and her eyes encouraged him to continue.

“It was shortly after Ro was born that I seriously thought that it was better for everyone involved that we divorce. I kept it to myself, the last thing I wanted to do was burden the mother of my children with one more thing, right before I left for a tour. I could see a change in her too, especially the time I spent at home. Later I learned that she was seeing someone else during that time. About halfway through the tour she told me that she wanted a divorce, and I agreed that it was the best thing to do, but we agreed to stay together until after the holidays. I did a lot of work here in Philly during that time; this place became a second home to me.

“It probably wasn’t until she filed that I saw a change in her behavior. She couldn’t allow herself to think that she could be to blame for us, so she blamed me. It was easy for her to do, there were so many ways to do it. I was never home, I didn’t see the kids enough, I neglected our time together. I think she was so hurt that she truly believed it, which I think hurt me the most. I never meant to hurt her, I loved her. The ironic thing may have been that she assumed that I cheated on her every chance I got when things were rough at home, but I never did. In my mind I always hoped that there was a chance of us fixing what we once had, and I wasn’t gonna do anything to screw that up. She assumed this, which gave her I dunno, permission, to cheat on me. I think deep down she needed to feel wanted again, and it broke my heart that I could be that for her anymore.

“After that she turned pretty resentful towards me. It was like she had this image of what happened that left her as the victim, and she clung to it as truth. That hurt, because while we could’ve been grieving together for what we were losing, she was hating me. I was away doing press for Lost Highway, she moved the kids out of the house. I came home one night after a 14-hour flight from Japan, not wanting to do anything but see my kids. Instead I found the house empty and a note waiting for me in the foyer. Talk about hitting a man when he’s down. The last year and a half has been pretty rough since then.”

The wine he had drank earlier clouded his judgment just enough to make him more honest than he ordinarily would have been with her. “I’ve been pretty miserable to be around, especially this last tour. The guys understood what I was going through, hell now we’ve all been through it. They gave me a little bit of leniency, but never let me lose myself too far. For that I will always be thankful. I never thought that I would find anyone that I would want to share my life with, until I met you. I dated women, but only as a favor to this person or another, or to keep the guys off my back. No one made me feel happy or comfortable, and I had accepted the fact that I would end up alone. I was gonna be that rock star who had the kids he saw every other weekend, and was never with anyone long enough for the media to learn her name. I had even accepted the fact that I may turn back into the ‘Jon of the 80’s’ on the next tour, to hell with everyone, just doing what ever I wanted, no looking back.

“That’s when I met you and my whole world changed. You made me feel like someone that deserved to be happy again. I saw the pain in you and I wanted to show you how wonderful you are and how you should have anything you want. That’s when I realized that I wanted the same thing for myself, and you helped me get there. I know I’m not perfect, but you’ve got me heading on the right path. I know that you are the reason for the changes I can see inside myself, because you are showing me the kind of selfless and pure love that I didn’t think I would ever get again. And the guys see it in me; they already started telling me not to let you get away. You are allowing me to feel comfortable with you, like I’ve known you my whole life. You are making me want to be a better man.”

He stopped talking and looked at her, but he couldn’t read her eyes. “I’m sorry, that may have come out a little strong. I haven’t told anyone that before right now, because I was afraid to admit that I was falling for you, hard. I know we’re taking things slow and I don’t want that to change, but I can’t help but be honest about how I feel. Please say something,” he said gently.

“I’m sorry that’s a lot to take in. I am so sorry that you were hurt so bad; I’ve been there too. And everything you said, I feel it too. You made a part of me come alive that had died so many years ago. I didn’t think it was possible for me to be happy again, but then you fell into my life,” she said letting her voice trail off.

Her emotions were taking over her; she didn’t know what to do or what to say. Nothing she said could compare to the pure confession he had just shared with her, she was just grateful that he trusted her enough to be honest. If only she could repay they privilege by coming clean to him.

“Look at me, I’m not going anywhere, I don’t need your words. What I said earlier, I’m gonna be whatever you need me to be for you, because you are the best thing to come into my life in a long time,” he said letting his voice trail off.

They sat with each other in silence for a minute, letting the words of the other sink in. Jon couldn’t wait any longer and needed to touch her, he need to feel her close to him. It had been so long since he felt this close to someone that he didn’t want to let her go. He reached over and brushed a stray hair from her face, and she smiled at him covering his hand with her own. He used his other hand to take her face in her hands, and kissed her. He couldn’t remember a kiss ever being so pure and meaningful to him.

Oblivious to what he was doing, he laid her back against the couch and continued to kiss her, running his hands through her hair. With passion now alive in him he hardly felt her pull away but continued kissing down her neck, until she whispered his name in his ear. He stopped to look into her eyes, hoping to see the same look that he was sure was in his. Her eyes had a look of desire, hindered by something else.

“Mel, what’s the matter,” Jon asked concernedly, the last thing he wanted was to push her too far; he didn’t want to lose her. He leaned back on the couch, allowing her sit up.

“Nothing this has been perfect. I don’t think I could have asked for a better night. I just think maybe it would be best if we,” Melissa paused trying to choose her words carefully. She didn’t want him to think that she was uncomfortable with him and with what he had shared with her.

“Called it a night? My dear, you know what’s best for me don’t you? I’ve gotta work tomorrow, I can’t be up all night with you and falling asleep tomorrow night, now can I,” Jon said as she shook her head. “Come on let me walk you back upstairs before we fall asleep right here.”

“Thank you,” Melissa said. “Let me just get my stuff,” she said looking around for her bag. She found it on the table and retrieved it. “I don’t want you to think that I didn’t appreciate what you said to me. I think it was the sweetest thing that someone could say. I truly do feel the same way.”

“I understand babe, you need you’re beauty sleep, and I need some sleep, don’t know if it does much to make me beautiful,” Jon teased. “Thank you for letting me share that with you, I’ve never been able to talk to anyone the way I just did with you.” Melissa smiled, knowing that words weren’t necessary. “Come on lets get upstairs.”

Jon led her to the elevators and to her room, not letting go of her hand. Just the touch of her hand in his was enough to fulfill his desire for her, his need to be with her. He stopped outside her door, “You got your key?”

“It should be in here somewhere,” Melissa said digging in her bag, until she located it. “Do me a favor and come in with me, to make sure that Angela made it back?”

“Of course,” Jon said taking any excuse to spend a little more time with her.

She opened the door and saw the tv on in the living room. She walked over to the couch and saw Angela and Richie passed out next to each other watching what were now cartoons. Melissa motioned for Jon to follow her over but to keep quiet.

Jon laughed when he saw the pair, “I’m sorry,” he whispered.

“Don’t worry about it, just lemme get a picture. She wouldn’t forgive me if I didn’t,” Melissa said looking for Angela’s purse.

After a few quick pictures Jon took the challenge of waking his incapacitated friend. He started rather gently shaking his shoulders but resorted to harder shoves and calling him when he didn’t stir. Melissa gave Angela a quick shake before she awoke with a start.

“Tommy not now, I’m tired. Let me go back to sleep,” she grumbled, her eyes still closed.

“Ang, it’s me, you’re gonna want to open your eyes,” Melissa said quietly.

“What,” Angela said slowly opening her eyes. She looked next to her to see Richie still passed out. “Oh my god, I’ve been sleeping with Richie Sambora. Mel you have to get a picture.”

“Already done, do you think I don’t know you that well,” Melissa asked.

Smiling Angela gave Richie a quick punch in the stomach, stirring him. “Wake up, you’ve gotta get outta my room. I’m a married woman Sambora!”

“How the hell did you do that,” Jon asked.

“Jon what are you doing here,” Richie asked trying to take in his surroundings.

“I’m taking you back to your room,” Jon answered.

“Well aren’t you a beautiful sight to wake up to,” Richie said turning to Angela.

“Come on, let’s go, it’s late,” Jon said pulling him to his feet.

“Fine, ruin all my fun. From what I can remember at this moment it has been a pleasure darling,” Richie said turning to Angela.

“Same here,” Angela said with a yawn, not moving from her seat on the couch, but giving him a playful kick in the ass, “but you’ve gotta go now.”

“Night, and thank you for tonight,” Melissa said walking them to the door.

“Same here,” Jon said smiling. He leaned down to give her a quick kiss, as he supported the weight of his friend.

“Oh how cute, you two kissin’ and shit. That reminds me of a song,” Richie started. “Johnny and Melissa sittin’ in a tree”

“Better get him back in his room before he wakes up the whole floor,” Melissa giggled. “I’ll talk to you in the morning.”

“Night,” came Jon’s response though Richie’s singing drowned it out.

Melissa shook her head and she watched Jon walk him down to his room. She locked the door after she shut it and walked back to Angela.

“I know you’re probably ready for bed, but I think I’m gonna do it,” Melissa said.

“Gonna do what,” Angela said through a yawn.

“I’m gonna tell him everything. He told me stuff tonight Ang, about his ex. I felt so connected to him; I know I can trust him. He came clean with me, now it’s my turn to do the same. After the show tomorrow, I’m really gonna do it,” Melissa said with a smile.

“If you’re sure sweetie, then I’m behind you 100%. But for now I think I need some sleep. I do want to hear all the details before I can give you my full and sober blessing,” Angela said rising.

“I know you do, but this is right Ang, it really is. I never thought I could feel the way I do when I’m with him. The part of me that died all those years ago is finally alive again, and its all thanks to him,” Melissa said beaming from ear to ear.

“Ok, Sweetie. I’ll talk to you in the morning,” Angela said giving her a quick hug, before entering her room.

I’m gonna do this, I really am. I owe this man my life for what he’s done for me. It’s about damn time I was honest with him, Melissa thought heading for her room.

Chapter 29

The groups of friends, both new and old, enjoyed a family style buffet. Though the group consisted of almost 15 people there was a true sense of family and they had sincerely accepted Melissa into their group, no questions asked. All that mattered to them was that she made Jon happy. It had been so long since Melissa had been around a group of people, besides Tommy and Angela, that were so open and non-judgmental, and she was soaking in every minute with her new friends. They sat around the table laughing, talking and eating for nearly two hours, and yet they made her feel that they knew each other much longer. She had spoken at length with Tico who was seated next to her, on her other side Jon’s attention was captured by his daughter, and across the table Angela was the life of the party between Richie and Hugh. Ordinarily she probably would’ve tried to take control of the situation and Jon’s attention but she kept her promise to herself and let the evening transpire on its own. As it did it turned out that she didn’t mind, she enjoyed finding out more about Tico, fully immersing herself into the lives of this sacred inner circle.

After all of the food, and more than a dozen bottles of wine were finished, people started to scatter themselves throughout the room. Melissa was content to continue talking to Tico, until he excused himself to call home. Melissa looked around the room soaking in the whole experience, not taking anything for granted. She saw Angela in an animated conversation with a majority of the band, looking like she was thoroughly enjoying herself. Across the table Hugh and Lorenza were still deep in conversation, but she had yet to find who she was looking for. In a quiet corner of the room she finally found Jon, deep in conversation with Obie and Cara. They were no doubt talking business, and she wasn’t about to interrupt them. Her eyes strayed over to the piano where she heard music, and expected to see Dave. Instead she was surprised to see Steph. Gathering all of her courage she stood and made her way to the piano.

“Your dad told me that you played, you’re really good. Is that something that I know,” Melissa asked approaching the piano.

“Probably not, its some of Uncle Dave’s stuff that he didn’t release,” Steph said continuing to play and not looking up.

“It really is beautiful. Dave taught you then? Could you ask for a better teacher,” Melissa asked trying to engage her in conversation.

Steph stopped playing and looked up at Melissa. “This may sound horrible but my dad always taught me that it’s better to be honest. I came down here this weekend with every intention of hating you, because you were no good for my dad. But he told me to give you a chance so I am, and I’m kinda finding it hard not to like you, because you make my dad happy. That’s all that matters, my dad’s happiness. Don’t hurt him, he’s been hurt too many times.”

“I have no intentions of hurting your dad. He’s a wonderful man who has been generous and gracious to me. I’m not gonna say that I’m perfect, or perfect for him. I know he was with your mom for a long time, so we’re taking this slow, for both of us,” Melissa said.

Steph’s eyes were fuming when Melissa mentioned her mother. “Don’t talk about her, she’s not good for me or my dad. We’re better off without her. He could be with anyone and it would be an upgrade.” Steph’s eyes had a horrified look, “But please don’t tell him I said that.”

“You’re secret’s safe with me,” Melissa said reassuringly. Jon hadn’t mentioned his ex wife, except in passing and Melissa couldn’t help but let her curiosity get the best of her.

“I don’t need you to cover for me,” Steph said quickly. “We were doing just fine by ourselves. Look I don’t hate you, and you seem nice enough, but I’ve had a long day. I think I’m gonna call it a night. I’m sure I’ll see you tomorrow,” she said standing and leaving.

Melissa stood at the piano a little confused. Everything seemed to be going fine, good even. What did I say that scared her off? This is gonna be a challenge I can feel it. It’s good to know she doesn’t hate me at least.

Jon was in fact talking about the show tomorrow, making sure that everything was running according to schedule. He was just about wrapping things up when he felt a hand on his arm and he turned and saw his daughter. “What’s up Steph?”

“I don’t wanna bother you but I just wanted to let you know that I’m done for the night,” she said.

“I’ll talk to you two tomorrow. Let me know if anything changes,” Jon said to Obie and Cara, and they promptly left them alone. “You’ve had enough of this crazy family huh,” Jon asked turning to his daughter.

“Yeah, I was up early today, and I’ve got a headache. I think I’m gonna go up to bed. I bet some sleep will help,” she said.

“Ok let me just say goodnight, and then I’m all yours,” Jon said.

“No, Dad, stay down here. I’m just gonna be sleeping,” Steph started.

“Are you sure, I’ve got some stuff to work on upstairs,” Jon offered.

“No it’s fine. No sense in you coming up to watch me sleep. I’ll be fine,” she said.

“Look at least let me walk you upstairs,” Jon started and put his hand up when she started to protest. “I know you don’t need me to walk you up the stairs, but I want to. I could never forgive myself if anything happened to you.”

“Dad, why do you have to be so dramatic,” she asked rolling her eyes.

“Because I love you,” Jon said giving her a kiss on the forehead. “Now let me just tell Melissa quick, she may be the only one who would notice I was gone,” he said looking around at everyone engaged in laughter and conversation.

“Ok,” she answered and followed him back over to the piano, where Tico now joined her.

“Hey, Mel. Steph’s not feeling well so she’s gonna call it a night,” Jon said.

“Oh, hold on a second,” Melissa said digging through her purse, until she found a small pink pillbox. “Whatever you need is in here I’m sure. Motrin, Midol, Tylenol, Advil, Benadryl, you name it. Help yourself.”

“That’s ok, I’m sure I have something upstairs,” Steph said quickly.

“Don’t be silly honey, it can’t hurt,” Jon said, and she took the box from Melissa.

“Thanks, I’ll give it back to you tomorrow,” Steph said stowing it in her purse.

“I’ll see you tomorrow then,” Melissa asked Jon.

“No I’ll be back down in a little bit. I’m just gonna walk her up; she assures me that she’ll be fine,” Jon said.

“Ok, I’ll see you then,” Melissa said. “It was nice meeting you Stephanie.”

Steph nodded at her, “Night Uncle Tico,” she said giving him a hug. “Tell everyone else I said goodnight.”

“Ok course. And don’t blame your dad for being lame. If I had a little girl I wouldn’t let her outta my sight at all. Especially if she was as beautiful as you, we were boys you know,” Tico said.

“My dad told you to say that,” she said rolling her eyes.

“Not at all,” Tico said. “But he, Richie and Dave talk about the group discount they’re gonna get at the convent. I think they were gonna send you to some mountain in Switzerland.”

“Good night Tico,” Jon said as he put his arm around his daughter and led her back to the elevator. “Ok, Stephie let me hear it. What do you think?”

“Think,” she asked as they entered the elevator.

“Melissa, I know you just met her, but what do you think? And remember that just a couple hours ago you promised me that you were gonna be honest,” Jon said hitting the button for their floor.

“Dad, do I have to do this now, I really have a headache,” Steph started.

“If that’s why you don’t wanna talk about this than that’s fine,” Jon said simply.

“Well, I mean its just weird for me. I see that she makes you happy, and she was nice to me. So I guess that means that I like her enough. I mean I don’t not like her, but I think that’s the best I can do, for now at least” she said.

“Then I guess I’ll have to take it,” Jon said smiling as the doors opened and they made their way down the hall. “Thank you for giving her a chance. It means a lot to me that you two know each other.”

Steph smiled at him as she dug through her bag for her key. “I can’t promise anything Dad, but I can try.”

“That’s all I could ever ask. Are you sure your ok up here,” Jon asked entering the suite and checking around, not sure what he was looking for.

“Of course, I’m just gonna shower quick and then go to bed. I was up early. Don’t worry about me, go on back downstairs,” she said through a yawn.

“Its my job to worry, I thought you knew that by now. I’m right downstairs if you need me. I’ve got my cell,” Jon said giving her a hug and a kiss goodnight.

“Tell everyone I said goodnight. I’ll see you in the morning,” she said as she pulled away from him and turned to walk towards her room.

“I love you Steph,” Jon said.

Steph turned around and looked at him, “I know, I love you too Dad.”

She continued down the hall and he heard her door shut behind her. Jon walked out of the room, making sure the door shut securely behind him. He walked back to the elevator and back down to where he had left his friends. When he reached the door he was surprised at the sight he saw. All of his friends were gathered around the piano singing a rousing rendition of “Piano Man”. Slightly confused Jon walked over to them remaining in the back for a minute enjoying the unique and rare version, confident that Angela had caught it all on film so he could watch it all transpire. At gatherings like these they usually kept work from pleasure, not that they didn’t enjoy their music. But keeping the two separate at times was essential to keeping them sane. When he got closer he saw Dave at the piano with Melissa at his side on the bench. He also noticed that the group was smaller than when he left it. You know you’re getting old when we don’t even stand to see 11:00, he thought. They were making their big finish and gave themselves a hearty round of applause.

“How long was I gone, and you’ve resorted to karaoke,” Jon asked.

“I was wondering what happened to you, I missed my harmonica,” Dave said.

“Oh, God the harmonica,” Angela said from his left. “I would pay to see you and that harmonica.”

“That I think could be arranged,” Jon said with a wink. “Now what brought this whole group over to the piano?”

“These two here, found a way to absolutely murder Heart and Soul,” Dave said gesturing to Tico and Melissa. “So I had to come over and rescue my piano from such a painful experience. You give a bunch of musicians some music and we can’t help but sing along.”

“It wasn’t that bad,” Tico started.

“It’s ok, we were killing it slowly,” Melissa said laughing. “I never said I was a musician, in my defense.”

“That’s for damn sure, but you sure are pretty to look at,” Dave said giving her a kiss on the cheek. “But this piano man, needs to call it a night,” he said rising.

Dave’s declaration started a round of yawns around the piano as they dispersed back throughout the room. Dave left Melissa on the piano bench talking to Lorenza and he went to talk to Jon.

“I really need to get to bed, I feel like an old man. I’ve been up since the probably four this morning with Gabby. I will see you for lunch though. She’s fantastic, Jon. I’m really happy for you,” Dave said.

“Thanks, I think she’s pretty damn fantastic too,” Jon said letting his gaze travel back to her.

“You can’t even not look at her, I can’t remember the last time I saw you like this,” Dave said.

“Sorry man,” Jon said laughing. “I just can’t stop thinking about her.”

“Well then I wont keep you any longer, I’ll see you tomorrow man. Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do,” Dave said.

“That’s not saying much man,” Jon said.

Dave gave him a crafty smile and headed to Melissa and Angela to say a quick goodnight. Melissa laughed and talked casually with Dave as he left. Jon loved seeing her interact so comfortably with his friends, they were, after all his second family. He couldn’t stand just watching her anymore and he walked over to Melissa.

“Oh mi bella, the pleasure was all mine. You have been wonderful company this evening,” Tico said to Melissa giving her a kiss on the cheek. “If you make Johnny this happy, than as far as I’m concerned you’re as good as family.”

“Thanks,” Melissa said blushing. “And I didn’t mean to embarrass you before at the piano.”

“Oh bella, if it wasn’t that they’d find something else to pick on, its how we show we care,” Tico said laughing.

“He’s right, so you better watch your back. We mock our own, it’s a rule,” Jon said.

“I’m heading up, I’m beat. You know how much I love to fly,” Tico said.

“That I have learned by now, I’ll see you at lunch,” Jon said.

“Don’t let her get away. I hate to jinx this but she looks like the best thing that’s happened to you in God knows how long,” Tico said knocking on the top of the piano.

“I know, I’m a lucky man,” Jon said smiling.

As Tico left Jon looked around at the now nearly empty room. In his head he counted, and the there were four, he thought turning to Melissa, Angela and Richie.

“Well that looks like our cue,” Richie said coming up behind Angela and wrapping his arms around her.

“You don’t have to run outta here,” Jon said half-heartedly.

“That’s alright, we’ve got plans of our own,” Richie said smiling.

“That we do,” Angela said smirking.

“Well if you’re sure,” Jon said. “Rich can you do me a favor, and check on Steph. I’m sure she’s sleeping by now.”

“You got it,” Richie said smiling. “Then I think we have a bet to straighten out.”

“And here I was hoping you forgot,” Angela teased. “Can you go find my bag?”

“Your wish is my command,” Richie said with a bow and set off to the table.

She whispered something to Melissa and then turned to go to Richie, but Jon put his hand on her arm to stop her. “He may have had a little to drink, but don’t let him get away with anything. Call me if he gets a little too rowdy,” Jon told her sincerely. “I know he wouldn’t hurt a fly, but get a bottle of wine in him, and you never know what’s gonna come out of his mouth.”

“Don’t worry about it darlin’, but thank you. I appreciate it,” Angela said.

“What do you appreciate,” Richie said returning.

“He was just warning me about your drunk ass, even though I can’t imagine that you could be more handsy than you are sober,” Angela teased. “Remember what I said,” she said turning to Melissa.

“I think I could be offended, but I’m gonna take the high road here,” Richie said with a mischievous smirk. “Have a good night you two,” he said with a wave as they left the room.

“Alone at last,” Jon said.

Alone indeed, Melissa thought happily to herself, now what?

Chapter 28

Jon and Richie walked Melissa and Angela up to their spacious suite and left them to unpack and change for dinner. The band had planned a group dinner to “get back in the swing of things” before their show tomorrow, and Angela was beside herself. Melissa was still unsettled about what had happened in the lobby. She flopped on Angela’s bed, pulled her hair back into a ponytail, and told Angela what she had seen.

Angela, who was already on her third outfit, sat next to her on the bed. “Mel, listen to me. You have got to accept that you can’t control all of this. You’re gonna drive yourself crazy and not enjoy yourself at all. Do not overanalyze this, please. You didn’t do anything wrong, I mean she’s seen her dad kiss other women before. You trust me right?”

“Of course, more than anyone,” Melissa answered still unsure.

“I understand why you’re upset about this, I really do Sweetie, but you have to have a little faith that everything is gonna be ok. Why don’t you go take a nice hot shower to clear your head,” Angela offered.

“A shower sounds nice. I’ll be back in a little while. Thanks Ang,” Melissa said giving her a hug.

“Don’t take too long, you need to help me figure out what to wear,” Angela said examining her dress in the mirror.

“Yeah, yeah. Why don’t you call your husband and tell him we got here in one piece,” Melissa called as she left the room.

“Oh fine, shoot me back to reality why don’t you,” Angela joked.

Melissa walked back into her room and started the water in the shower. Relinquishing control wasn’t something that she had been good at in the last 10 years, but for Jon she was determined to try.

***

Jon had walked with Cara back to her room as he thought of a dozen questions and things for her to check up on. Jon felt a little more relaxed after talking with her. No matter how long he’d been doing this, he always worried about the details. He walked back to his room determined to let someone else do all the worrying, for once. He had other, more important, things to occupy his time and thoughts with. The two women in his life were with him this weekend, he shouldn’t be thinking of anything else.

He used his key and opened the door to his room. He had spent so much time in Philly, this room seemed like a second home to him and he knew all the ins and outs to it. He looked around the living room area for Steph but didn’t see her. He walked towards the bedroom and called for her. He found it empty with the exception of his bag on the bed. He walked down the hall to the other bedroom and knocked on the door. He called to her and opened the door slightly when he didn’t hear an answer. He found Steph lying on her stomach on the bed and he walked over and sat next to her.

He put his hand on her back, “Steph, are you sleeping?”

She sat up and looked at him, her eyes red and her face tearstained. “Dad, do you even want me here?”

Jon pulled her into a hug and held her close. “Of course I do. How could you think that I don’t?”

She pulled away from him. “I saw you in the lobby, when I was waiting for the elevator. I saw you talking to her. It was like you couldn’t get rid of me fast enough so you could be with her. You were all over her, Dad, your tongue was like literally in her mouth, for the whole world to see.”

Guilt flooded over Jon, and he chose his words carefully before he spoke. “Sweetie listen to me, I never want you to feel like that. I don’t want you to feel the way you did at your mom’s with me too. I promise that’s not what I was trying to do. Cara offered to walk you upstairs so you could unpack, baby that’s all. What’s really going on, Steph?”

“Its just seeing you with her,” she said her voice trailing off.

“Talk to me. I thought you were ok with everything. About this weekend and about me and Melissa in general. You should’ve came and talked to me about this before you were so upset. I hate seeing you like this.”

“And say what Dad? Don’t let her come? You’re not allowed to date anyone? I just want you to be happy again. I really do. But then there’s part of me that’s selfish and I don’t want you to be with anyone but me. I don’t want to share you because I don’t want to lose you again.”

“That’s why you have to talk to me, I didn’t know any of this was going on in that pretty little head of yours. But you know this means Richie was right, he told me that you weren’t ok with all of this. You’d think I’d know my own daughter better that this,” Jon said pushing the hair out of her face. “Now I want you to listen to me, and really hear what I’m saying. You and your brothers are the most important thing in my life, and I would pick the four of you over anything, every time. I can understand why you’re upset, but I want you to know that you come first in my life, now and always. I’ve made that clear to Melissa, and she understands that. Do you think I would let someone into our lives that doesn’t know how important you are to me? I love you Steph, and nobody is gonna change that.”

“I love you too, Dad,” she said melting back into his chest.

“You trust me right,” Jon asked smoothing back her hair.

“Absolutely.”

“Then I need you to do me a favor. Don’t blame Melissa, this isn’t her fault its mine. She’s probably feeling the same way, and I just didn’t see it. Give her a chance, for me? I really think the two of you will like each other. Can you try?”

“I guess I can try,” Steph said still a little hesitant.

“Thank you. I appreciate it. Stephie, please promise me that you’ll come to me if I do something that upsets you, so we can talk,” she nodded at him. “Good, and are you sure you’re ok now and you’re not just saying that.”

“I want you to be happy, honestly, I just don’t want to lose you.”

“I’m not going anywhere, you’re stuck with me kiddo,” Jon said and she smiled. “Finally I get to see those pearly whites. Why don’t you get ready? We’re leaving in 20 minutes.”

“Leaving,” she asked.

“Dinner, downstairs with the guys. Richie and me are picking the girls up at 8. Does that give you enough time?”

“Not really, but I’ll see what I can do,” she said scooting off of the bed.

“I love you Steph,” Jon said.

“I know, I love you too, Dad,” she said grabbing her bag and heading to the bathroom.

Shit what the hell have I gotten myself into, Jon thought. He got out his cell phone and walked to his room to change. He sent Richie a quick text, you were right Steph was pissed… Jon dug in his bag for a clean shirt to change into as he thought of the situation he had created.

Twenty minutes later he knocked on Steph’s door. “Steph are you ready to go?”

“Not yet I can meet you downstairs,” she called through the closed door.

“Are you sure? I can wait for you. I’ll send Richie down without me,” he offered.

“I’m sure, I’ll be down in a little while. I don’t wanna hold you up.”

“Steph,” Jon started, but stopped when she opened the door.

She was in a dressing robe and he could see piles of clothes scattered all over the floor. “Dad, I’ll be fine I know where I’m going.”

“You know I’d wait up here all night for you, right,” Jon asked.

“I know Dad,” she said smiling brightly. “I love you,” she said giving him a kiss on the cheek.

Her smile was so genuine that Jon hadn’t realized that it had been missing for weeks. How could he have missed how much he was hurting her? Now, at least, she seemed happy, he just wanted to keep it that way. “I love you too,” Jon said as the doorbell rang.

“Go ahead, get it. It’s probably Uncle Richie. I’ll be down soon.”

“Call me if you need me,” Jon said as the doorbell rang again.

“I don’t think I’m going to be calling you for fashion advice. Not with that skull necklace you keep wearing. But ok Dad, even though I’ll be fine once I figure out what to wear.”

“You’d look beautiful in anything. I’ll see you down there,” Jon said and headed to the door.

Sure enough it was Richie, and Jon laughed when he looked at him. “Is there only one way to dress us up,” Jon asked gesturing to Richie’s clothes. They were both “dressed up” in their usual jeans and a nice shirt.

“Hey, why fix what ain’t broke? Did you get everything under control in here,” Richie asked.

“Yeah we’re good. For real this time. Let’s go,” Jon said moving into the hall.

“Wait a second there lover boy. Aren’t we missing someone?”

“She’s still getting ready. She’s gonna meet us down there,” Jon said. “Don’t give me that look. I’m sure this time.”

“Uh-hu,” Richie said ringing the doorbell.

Melissa opened the door with a smile, “Don’t you two clean up nice?”

“Thank you my dear,” Richie said. “Where is my lovely date?”

“In her bedroom,” Melissa said pointing. “I just knocked on her door, but you can try if you want.”

“I love a challenge,” Richie said heading for her room.

“You look absolutely beautiful,” Jon said taking a good look at her. Her blue dress hugged her curves just enough to show her figure, but remained simple and classy; the blue of the dress made her eyes sparkle.

“Thanks, you don’t look too bad yourself. You know you’re lucky we over packed; this was quite a detail you left out. I swear Angela almost ended up at the nearest mall.”

“Darlin’ you would’ve looked perfect wearing anything that you packed,” Jon said and gave her a little kiss.

Melissa pulled away cautiously and looked down the hall. “Where’s Steph?”

“She’s still getting ready, why? Is this weird for you,” Jon asked.

“Honestly, a little,” she answered. “But I know how important she is to you,” she added quickly.

Jon smiled, “You know, women should just tell us these things. Steph was uncomfortable with this too, but I talked to her and everything’s ok now. I guess she just needed to hear again how much I love her. And I told her that you understand that.”

“I do. She is all you ever talk about, after all,” Melissa said teasingly.

“Now we’re ready to go,” Richie said appearing with Angela at his side.

“That’s what you’re wearing,” Melissa asked looking at Angela’s dress.

“Yeah, why what’s wrong with it,” Angela asked.

“Yeah, what’s wrong with it? I like it very much,” Richie said pouting.

“Nothing, but you had that dress on an hour ago,” Melissa said.

“We all can’t look good in everything, like you,” Angela said.

“Baby, you would look good in anything, hell or nothing,” Richie said.

“Watch it Sambora. I’ve got my eye one you,” Melissa said teasingly.

“You took the words right out of my mouth, gorgeous,” Jon said. “Now lets get going before we miss fashionably late.”

They walked hand in hand to the elevators and made their way to one of the smaller ballrooms. It was set up with a large table for about 15 and to Melissa’s surprise and delight, there was a piano in the corner. There were also a couple of couches and assorted chairs to one side of the room where people had already gathered and were talking. Melissa took Jon’s hand and squeezed it. Next to her she could feel Angela about to burst out of her skin. She knew it was taking a lot of self-control for her not to run to the other side of the room and do something that would surely embarrass them both. She hadn’t even noticed that they were still essentially in the doorway because she and Angela were looking around in awe like little kids who found the closet where the Christmas presents were hidden. She looked over at the group of people to see who she could identify and she saw Dave walking over to meet them. Oh my God that’s David Bryan. Stay calm this is not the time to turn into a fan, she thought.

He stopped in front of them, “My, my. Those pictures did no justice to you two. It also helps that you’re bigger than the screen on Richie’s phone and I’m not driving. Now from what I’ve heard, you must be the magical Melissa,” Dave said.

“Magical,” Melissa asked.

“It must’ve taken magic for you to get Jon out of that funk he was in. Now that I’ve met you thought I think you’re more like a siren. A nondestructive one that isn’t half bird of course,” Dave said.

“Thanks, I think,” Melissa said trying to fish out the compliment. “I always knew you were the smart one.”

“Now how could you know that, I haven’t even introduced myself to you. Dave, a pleasure to finally meet you,” he said.

Melissa let go of Jon’s hand to shake Dave’s. “The pleasure is all mine, I assure you,” she said.

“Oh no, that’s not the way we do things around here,” Dave said pulling Melissa into a quick hug.

“Wait a minute, should I be offended you thought that he was the smart one,” Richie said pretending to be hurt.

“Between Mr. I-got-arrested-on-graduation-day-and-they-almost-didn’t-give-me- my-diploma and Mr. I-almost-didn’t-graduate-because-I-missed- almost-100-days-senior-year, I wouldn’t say that the bar is set too high. Throw in the fact that Dave here had a 4.0 in the pre-med program at Rutgers and went to Julliard, you two never had a chance,” Melissa challenged.

“Touché,” Richie said.

“Damn Jon, she is a keeper. If things don’t work out between you two, give me a call,” Dave said with a wink.

“Hey you’ve got a girlfriend, don’t try to steal mine,” Jon said putting his arm around her shoulder. “Besides I don’t even know what you were calling her before. Can I assume you were being nice?”

“What’s the matter, Mr. Rock Star isn’t up to date on his Greek mythology? On behalf of Greeks everywhere I am insulted. Sirens are creatures whose beauty and charm would be so hypnotic that they would lead sailors to crash their boats so that the villagers could take all the goods from the wrecks. It was a very nice and creative compliment,” Angela stated as though he should’ve known.

“You must be Angela. I’ve heard a lot about you. I think I could’ve picked you out in that dress alone,” Dave said looking at her red dress that was probably a little too short and a little too low on anyone else for this occasion. Dave would have to learn that Angela dressed similar to her personality: a little loud, sexy, flirty and a lot of fun. Somehow she always managed to pull it off without looking inappropriate.

“What you don’t like it,” Angela asked.

“I didn’t say that at all. Can I call you Helen,” Dave teased.

“I should be offended. I am happily married, but from you Paris you can call me whatever you like,” Angela said giving him a hug.

“More mythology,” Jon whispered.

“Didn’t you see the movie Troy? She’s Diane someone and he’s Orlando Bloom. The married princess who led on dozens of men causing a war, and Paris kidnapped her,” Melissa said watching Angela enjoy every second of her hug.

“Ooh, wait a sec,” Angela said stepping back. She started to dig through her purse and pulled out her camera. “I’m gonna need to get this on hypothetical film,” she said handing the camera to Melissa and giving Dave another over the top hug.

“Angela,” Melissa started, but stopped because she knew that it was no use. She took a picture, the flash clearly seen from all over the room.

Angela moved her hand up to his hair. “You don’t mind do you,” she asked. “I always said if I met you I would have to see what it felt like.”

“Not at all,” Dave said laughing.

“Melissa you’re getting all this right,” Angela asked. Melissa obliged and snapped another picture.

“You got off easy you know. The first time she met me she grabbed my ass,” Jon said teasingly.

“Hey I’m starting to get jealous over here,” Richie said.

Angela ignored him, “Come on Mr. Piano Man, show me around.”

“Right this way m’lady,” Dave said putting his arm around her and led her across the room to the group of people.

“I think I should be jealous,” Richie said watching them go.

“You must’ve known it couldn’t last. If she fell for you that quickly it was only a matter of time before someone new came along,” Melissa said.

Richie shook his head at her and walked over to where Dave was introducing Angela to some of the supporting band members.

“So my little siren, huh,” Jon asked.

“If that’s what Dave says,” Melissa said. “I don’t know exactly who that makes you.”

“I wouldn’t even know where to begin to guess,” Jon said. He turned when he heard someone call his name.

Melissa turned to see Tico entering the room. He walked over to them and shook Jon’s hand. He turned to Melissa took her hand, and gave it a kiss. “Ay, Señorita! Que una magnífico mujer. El pelo como el sol, y ojos como el océano. Simplemente perfección!”

Melissa giggled when he spoke to her. Her Spanish was rusty at best, but the exoticness of the foreign language had her blushing. “Thank you. It’s nice to finally meet you.”

“It’s my pleasure to meet such a beautiful woman. Especially one that can take her eyes off of Jon and look at me,” Tico teased.

“I’ll look at you any day if you talk to me in Spanish. You can start with the phonebook if you’d like.” Melissa said.

“It’s a date,” Tico said giving her a kiss on the cheek. “Excuse me, I should go say hi to everyone else. It looks like I’m the last to arrive as usual.”

“So he’s the late one huh,” Melissa asked.

“Yeah, you can pretty much count on Teek being the last one in. We usually give him a different time to get him a little closer to on time; I think Cara told him a quarter of. Richie will usually give him a run for his money if it’s before noon though.”

“And just for the record he’s the second smartest being bilingual and all,” Melissa said teasing.

“I see how it is. What if I spoke to you in Italian,” Jon asked.

Melissa’s knees went weak at the thought. “You don’t speak it do you?”

“Not unless you count a string of curses I picked up growing up. My parents didn’t teach me, it was easier to talk about my brothers and me right in front of us if we didn’t speak it,” Jon said.

“Well then it looks like you’re still at the bottom of the pile,” Melissa said.

“I’ll see if I can work on that. Can I get you a drink,” Jon asked.

“Sure, whatever you’re drinking is fine. Just so you know bribery wont help you move up,” Melissa said.

“Moi? Bribery? I think I’m insulted,” Jon said.

“That doesn’t count as a second language either, but you may get points for creativity,” Melissa said.

“You can’t say I didn’t try, I’ll be right back,” he said giving her a kiss on her temple.

You’re doing fine, Melissa thought to herself. Two down, one to go. Two really I guess, I should count Hugh. But the other one’s the one that really counts.

Jon returned a minute later with two glasses of white wine. “For you my dear,” he said handing her a glass.

“Thank you,” she said taking a sip. This is probably the best wine I’ve ever tasted. I have a feeling I’m gonna need another glass of this, before the night is over. She felt him slip his arm around her waist, and she leaned in just a bit.

“Hi, Dad,” a voice behind them said.

They both turned around to see Steph, looking much more grown up that her 15 years in a sleek black dress. Melissa tried to smile at her, but Steph was careful to keep eye contact with Jon. Jon let go of Melissa and gave his daughter a hug and a kiss on the cheek.

“There you are. You look absolutely gorgeous. I should probably make you go change into something that’s not so adult looking,” he said.

“Oh Dad, stop it,” Steph said blushing a little bit.

“Steph, this is Melissa,” Jon said putting his hand on Melissa’s back urging her to take a step forward. “And Melissa, this is my not-so-little girl Stephanie.”

Steph was quick to extend her hand, “It’s nice to meet you.”

Melissa, taken back by her openness, stumbled for words for a second while she shook her hand. “Its so nice to meet you too. Finally put a face to the name I’ve heard all about.”

“You too,” Steph said. “My dad said you work at a hospital.”

“Yeah I do, I run the children’s program there. And my best friend is one of the nurses there too. She’s around here somewhere you can’t miss her. She’s in the red,” Melissa said, not exactly sure what to say.

“Well it was nice meeting you, I’m sure I’ll see you later. I’m gonna go get something to drink, unless you just wanna give me your glass,” Steph said to Jon.

“Not a chance,” Jon said. “You want me to get you something?”

“No that’s ok, I can get it,” Steph said.

“Ok, bye sweetie. I’ll see you at dinner,” Jon said giving Steph a kiss on the cheek as she walked away.

“She’s beautiful, she looks just like you. I bet you have your hands full with all the guys trying to date her,” Melissa said.

“Don’t even say that. I still see her as a little five-year-old in pigtails,” Jon said. “Come on, let me introduce you around.”

I don’t think that could’ve gone any better if I planned it out myself. Now I get to go meet the band members, this night couldn’t get better, Melissa thought as Jon led her to where everyone was gathered already in conversation.