Sunday, April 26, 2009

Chapter 57

Melissa woke the next morning with a groan. Her head was pounding, he stomach was uneasy and she had an overwhelming urge to roll over and go back to sleep. God, how much did I have to drink last night, she thought as she opened her eyes a sliver thankful to see a darkened room. She looked next to her in the bed to see Jon had already gotten up then looked around the room to see the only light was coming from the bathroom and what little sunlight was able to sneak through the closed blinds.

Melissa sat up to try to find a clock when she heard Jon enter the room. She got a strong whiff food and let out another groan as she felt her stomach start to rebel against the scent. “No food,” she grumbled as she covered her eyes with her hands to shut out the light.

“Morning,” Jon whispered as he shut the door and brought over a tray of food. “How are you feeling this morning?”

“I feel like crap,” she answered as she glared at the tray of food.

“I kinda figured. You had quite a night last night,” Jon said keeping his voice low and setting the tray of food on the bed.

“Angela?”

“Matt called this morning to give me a heads up, and Angela told me too,” Jon said grabbing nearby pillows and putting them behind her back.

“Why do I feel like I was tattled on,” she said with a hint of aggravation in her voice.

“It wasn’t like that. Matt called this morning to let me know so that I could get the perfect hangover remedy ready for you. And then in the kitchen me and Angela had a battle of which cures the hangover and we ended at a standstill so it looks like you’re gonna get the best of both worlds. Come on, eat,” he said sliding the tray up her lap.

“I’m not hungry,” she said simply.

“Don’t you think that after 25 years me and Richie know how to cure one of these? Eat this, from Angela, drink this, it’s a sure thing just don’t ask what’s in it. Take it in one big shot, and then drink lots of water. Add in a nice shower and you’ll be good as new in no time,” Jon offered handing her a fork.

Melissa looked at him before giving in and dug into the eggs. “Come on there’s enough food for an army, eat with me,” she said gesturing to the eggs, bacon, toast, and hash browns in front of her.

Jon climbed onto the bed next to her and they ate in silence until the plate was empty. “Feeling better,” he asked.

“A little,” she said eyeing the mysterious drink in the juice glass. “What is that?”

“If I told you, you wouldn’t drink it and you probably wouldn’t believe me,” he said. “Go on its not that bad. Just take it in one shot and you’ll feel better.”

Melissa held the glass and tried to identify the ingredients before she raised the glass to her mouth and swallowed the concoction. “Jon that was probably the worst thing I’ve ever tasted,” she said trying to get the taste out of her mouth.

“Here,” he said handing her a glass of water. “If it works, don’t ask questions. Finish that water and then go hit the shower.”

“What time is it,” she asked.

“A little after nine we’re gonna be leaving in about an hour,” Jon said as she finished her glass.

“I’ve gotta get going then,” she said getting out of bed.

“I’m gonna take this downstairs, let me know if you need anything,” he said grabbing the empty tray.

She stood next to him and placed the tray back on the bed wrapping her arms around him. He pulled her close and ran his fingers through her hair. “Thank you,” she said as she held on to him.

“You’re welcome. I love you, Mel,” he said kissing her hair.

“I love you too, Jon,” she said leaning up to kiss him. “But I’ve gotta get ready or we’re gonna be late,” she said letting go and walking to the bathroom.

Melissa let the hot water wash over her relieving the last of her ailments and she left the shower feeling 1,000 times better than she did when she woke up. She wrapped a towel around herself and her hair before she sat in front the mirror to quickly do her makeup. When she was satisfied she went back in the bedroom to change before doing her hair. She took out the necessary underwear out of one of Jon’s drawers and laid them on the bed. She heard someone in Jon’s closet and called out for him.

“Melissa is that you,” Richie answered.

“Yeah, I thought you were Jon. What are you doing,” she asked.

“I needed a tie. I hate these things they make me feel so constricted, so I never thought to bring one out here. Jon does all the meetings with the suits so he’s got a bunch. Can you tell me which one of these goes better,” Richie asked coming around the corner.

“Damn Sambora, you clean up nice,” Melissa said looking at him in black dress pants and deep green button down shirt.

“Well thank you, even though I hate dressing up. I bet you don’t look too bad yourself. Which one do you think,” he asked holding two ties, one silver and one blue.

“I wouldn’t go with that one,” she said pointing to the blue one, “but this one may work,” she said holding the silver one against his shirt.

“Thanks, I like to double check,” he said tossing the blue one on the bed.

“Any time, you want me to tie it for you,” she asked.

“Nah I can tie ‘em I just hate wearing ‘em,” he said as he slid it over his neck. “How are you doing today?”

“What do you mean,” she asked warily.

“You seemed a little off yesterday,” he answered.

“It was just a long weekend, that’s all. And I hate funerals, that’s all,” she answered.

“Tell me about it, I hear you there. Am I straight,” he asked tightening his tie.

“A little crooked,” she said adjusting it. “Now you look good to go.”

“Thanks, you’re a life saver,” he said giving her a kiss on the cheek. “I’ll let you finish getting ready. I’ll see you downstairs.”

Once she was left to herself she dressed in what was known as her funeral dress. A simple black dress cut to her knee, cap sleeves and a modest scoop neck, had accompanied her to many funerals over the last few years. She walked back into the bathroom to examine herself in the mirror. She took the towel off of her head and gave it a good shake before deeming it done. She grabbed a clip from the counter and made her way back to the bedroom to put on her shoes before finding Jon.

She walked down to the kitchen where Richie, Jon and Angela were talking around the island. Richie was first to notice her and smiled when he did. “I told you, you clean up good. You look gorgeous,” he said.

Jon and Angela turned to look at her. Angela was in her usual funeral attire, a similar black dress, and Jon was dressed in a suit with a blue tie making his eyes pop more than usual.

“Morning, Mel,” Angela said brightly from the counter.

“Morning,” Melissa said as Jon walked over to her.

“You look great,” he said giving her a quick kiss.

“Thanks, you look nice too. Look I’m sorry about this morning,” she started.

“No worries, that’s just the hangover talking. You feeling better now,” he asked.

“Good as new,” she said smiling.

“Perfect, I bet you’re ready for some coffee. I didn’t bring any up before because it tends to do more harm then good if you have it too soon,” Jon said handing her a mug.

“You’re my hero,” she said taking a sip.

“If we’re all ready to go, we may as well head out. Can’t hurt to be a little early,” Richie said.

“Travel mugs,” Angela offered.

“Please,” Melissa said.

“Lemme help you with that,” Jon said as Angela started opening and closing cabinets.

Once they all had their mugs they headed out for Jon’s truck for the ride down the shore. Melissa tumbled in the back with Richie leaving navigational duties to Angela. She couldn’t bring herself to lead them down the shore. Not today, like this, with all the memories that haunted her there. Today she was determined not to think of the past and focus on the events at hand. Yeah right, she thought as Jon pulled out of the driveway.

Sunday, April 19, 2009

Chapter 56

Jon headed out around eight to pick Steph up from her friend’s house and take her home. Richie headed home with him leaving the two women to talk. When they left they assured Melissa and Angela that they would be back to pick them up when they were ready but to take their time. The two women ordered a variety of the specialty martinis and walked back to the couches while Matt assured them that their wait staff was discrete and confidential if there were certain things that couldn’t be risked getting out.

“So,” Angela asked setting their drinks down.

“I think I love him,” Melissa said.

“Of course, I could’ve told you that! Did you tell him,” Angela asked.

Friday night and the look on his face, it just felt so right,” Melissa said.

“Yes start there and then don’t leave out a single detail. You headed off Friday night and the way your head was you have no idea the images I had in my head as you sped off. I didn’t even know where you went. I was hoping that I knew but I wasn’t positive. So you left the hospital and,” Angela prodded.

“And I took off down the highway. It was one of those things where I didn’t know how I got there but the next thing I knew I was in front of his house. And I had like tunnel vision I couldn’t see anything around me all I could think was get to the door and go to him. I just kept hitting the bell until the door opened and I was ready just to fall into his arms but Steph opened the door and she sent me running to the studio. Which is one hell of a run by the way. I walked in the building and I could hear his voice and I just wanted to melt. I ran up the stairs and when I saw him I didn’t know what to do. He turned and he looked at me with those blue eyes, I was gone. But then in my head I was thinking ‘What if I’m too late? What makes me think that Jon Bon Jovi is gonna wait around for me?’ But I just stood there and poured my heart out to him and he just held me as I sobbed. That’s when Richie and another guy left, I don’t even know who it was,” Melissa said stopping to take a drink.

“And that must’ve been when Richie called me. He’s a smart man, I was a nervous wreck waiting to hear from you,” Angela said.

“I’m sorry I never meant to worry you, I just got scared. I had to be with him,” Melissa said finishing her drink and grabbed another.

“I’m allowed to worry about you, it’s my job. So then what happened,” Angela asked.

“Then he took me back up to the house and Steph was leaving for a friend’s house for the night. Once she was gone we went upstairs and went right to bed,” Melissa said.

“I’m so jealous! And you were ok,” Angela asked.

“It felt so right being back with him. Letting him hold me close, I didn’t know how much I missed it. I mean I knew I missed him, but I didn’t know just how much,” Melissa said.

“Well I’m glad you realized it, what happened Saturday,” Angela asked.

“We woke up at like the same time and then we went downstairs and got some breakfast and talked. I told him everything. Sometimes I still can’t believe that I did it. I never thought I’d tell another soul. It was so hard. Half of me was playing it all back in my head and then other half of me is watching him and waiting for his reaction. Like it wasn’t hard enough already I had to gage him too. I almost couldn’t do it,” Melissa said signaling to the bartender for another round of drinks.

“Why?”

“Why couldn’t I tell him? Or why did I tell him,” Melissa asked.

“Both.”

“Because I didn’t want him to know that he was dealing with damaged goods. What had happened. What that meant for us. I didn’t want him to judge me for what had happened. What I let happen,” Melissa said taking the drinks from the bartender.

“’Lis, that’s not your fault. You know that,” Angela said.

“Looking back it just feels like there’s something I should’ve done. Or could’ve done,” Melissa said letting her voice trail.

“Melissa listen to me, we’ve been through this before. What could you have done differently,” Angela asked.

“I could’ve left when it all started. Months before I did,” Melissa said with tears in her eyes.

“Sweetheart, I know you did what you could. He had you under his spell. Tell me you know you didn’t do anything wrong,” Angela said.

“Its just so hard to believe when you say what happened out loud. It seemed so obvious,” Melissa said.

“No I want none of that. What did Jon say? Does he think what you thought he would,” Angela asked.

“No he was perfect. He said all the right things; we even kinda talked about sex. He said we would when I was ready and not before. Then Richie came over and he and Jon went out to the bar and that’s when I called you. And when I saw him again I could tell that he was drinking a lot and I felt so guilty, like it was my fault,” Melissa said.

“Melissa Caroline you’re kidding right? That man loves his wine. You know that, I know that, hell I’m sure we can go around the bar and find another person who knows that. Don’t you start blaming yourself for something that not only isn’t your fault but isn’t a problem. You think way too much sometimes,” Angela said.

“It gets better. I was so stupid. I was afraid I was losing him so I tried to make myself have sex with him,” she said fresh tears flowing and the filter from her head to her mouth lost a few drinks ago.

“You didn’t,” Angela said with a horrified look on her face.

“He tried so many times to tell me I didn’t have to but I could see deep in his eyes that he wanted it, but I couldn’t do it. I was so ashamed and scared that that was the final straw,” Melissa said.

“Did you talk to him about it,” Angela asked.

“Not then. I asked him to stay with me a minute and then he left for the bathroom. I couldn’t stay there and wait to see the disappointed look on his face when he came back so I went to talk to Richie. I told him everything and he just let me cry and he tried to tell me it was gonna be ok. When I went back to Jon he was sleeping already, I don’t think I could’ve faced him if he wasn’t. But he left me the sweetest note on my pillow for me. It just said something like ‘I’m sorry and I love you.’ When did I turn into such a mess,” Melissa asked.

“Sweetie, you’re not a mess. You’re just trying to figure out a lot at once. Just a little bit of overdrive that’s all. What happened in the morning,” Angela asked.

“We had a bit of a fight when we got up-“

“What happened, Mel?”

“That doesn’t matter. But eventually we talked, we talked about a lot. I don’t want to get into all that right now. But we really talked, it was good when all was said and done. Then Matt came over last night for the football game. We all had a great time; it was like old hat the five of us together. And we’ve been taking things slow, well slower,” Melissa said.

“Slower, like sex slower,” Angela asked.

“Yeah.”

“Well that’s good, as long as you’re ok with everything. It sounds like you had one hell of a weekend,” Angela said.

“That’s the understatement of the year,” Melissa said finishing another drink.

“How many of those have you had,” Angela asked as Melissa signaled for another.

“I dunno I stopped counting around five or six,” Melissa said.

“Maybe you want a glass of water instead,” Angela asked.

Melissa gave her friend a look as she took her drink from the bartender and thanked him.

“How are you today, with everything that’s going on,” Angela asked.

“Fine,” Melissa answered quickly.

Angela gave her a skeptical look, “Well I’m here when you need me.”

Melissa nodded as she emptied yet another glass. She looked up when she heard the door open and saw Matt come in. “Are you ladies ok up here,” he asked joining them on the ottoman in front of them.

“Wonderful, I forgot just how good these martinis are,” Melissa said her words a little slurred.

“Well thank you. But I just came up to see if you two were ready to go. Desiree just called and asked me to get something for her from the store, you don’t wanna know what. But while I’m out I pass Jon’s and I could give a ride home.”

“What time is it,” Angela asked.

“A little after ten,” he answered.

“Melissa we should be going, we have to get up early in the morning,” Angela said turning to her.

“But,” she started waving her glass.

“The bar will be here. You were up early and it looks like you’ve had a long day,” he said taking the glass from her hand calling for the bartender.

“How much do we owe you for the drinks,” Angela asked when the bartender came over.

“Don’t even think about it,” Matt said when she reached for her purse. “I’m sure Jon took care of everything.”

“But he left a couple hours ago,” she insisted.

“You think my brother pays? He just leaves a nice tip. Put your money away,” Matt said sending away the bartender.

“Are you sure,” Angela asked.

“Positive, come on lets get outta here,” Matt said standing.

Angela and Melissa stood after him and Melissa swayed on her feet. When she started to walk she stumbled into Matt who caught her before she fell. “Lemme take you out the back way, that’s where my truck’s parked anyway,” he said guiding them through the staff door.

He held onto her down the stairs and led them out the back door where his truck was waiting for them. He helped Melissa into the front before he shut Angela’s door and climbed into the driver’s seat. Matt and Angela made small talk on the short ride home as Melissa drifted in and out of sleep. When they pulled in the driveway Matt stopped in front of the front door and turned the car off. Angela climbed out of the back seat and opened Melissa’s door to wake her. Melissa woke in a daze and Matt helped her inside using his key. They stopped in the foyer to dump their bags and shoes before Angela turned to Matt.

“Thanks for dinner and everything tonight,” she said smiling.

“No trouble at all. You’re both welcome anytime,” he said.

“I’ve got it from here, thanks for driving us home,” she said holding Melissa steady on her feet.

“Don’t be silly I know my brother’s probably in bed and I’m here already. I can help you up the stairs,” Matt said.

“Don’t talk about me like I’m not here,” Melissa grumbled.

“Come on let’s get up to bed,” Angela said turning to her friend.

Matt walked behind them and balanced Melissa when she started to sway on the stairs and left them outside Jon’s room before he left. Angela opened the door slowly to see Jon asleep in bed with a few lights left on for her. Angela saw a note left on the bed. Melissa, If I fall asleep help yourself to whatever you need. Hope you and Ang had fun tonight. I love you and I’ll see you in the morning. Jon

Angela helped Melissa into the bathroom and made sure she was changed and in bed before she left. “Hey Angela,” Melissa said.

“Yeah?”

“Thanks,” Melissa said sleepily.

“Of course. I’ll see you in the morning,” Angela said as Jon’s body instinctively moved to cuddle to Melissa before she drifted to sleep.

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

Chapter 55

A few hours later found the foursome enjoying dinner and drinks at Elements. They were comfortable in the VIP room enjoying their privacy from the public and their private and discrete staff. Matt popped in and out as he could and the group spent their time joking and laughing trying to relieve some of the stress from the afternoon.

Jon kept a close eye on Melissa who seemed to be a little off since earlier in the day. She went through all the motions but something was still missing in her eyes.

“So then Ava comes back in my room shrieking. So I turn and look at her because the way she’s screaming I’m expecting her to be missing a limb. And she’s standing there with this look on her face likes she’s ready to kill me. So I’m like, ‘Av what’s wrong?’ And she’s like ‘Ohmigod DAD how could you not tell me!’ And I was like ‘Tell you what?’ And she was like, ‘They’re gonna be there!’ And I stupidly asked who, to which she replied, ‘The Jonas Brothers! Who else would I be talking about? I cant believe you didn’t tell me!’ And she storms out of my room and I can hear her yelling to one of her friends on the phone and I’m still kinda confused if it’s a good thing or not that they’re gonna be there. So we get there and she sees them and she looks like she’s gonna die. Their handler walks them over to talk to me and I introduce Ava and she just stood there gawking at them. And then I’m thinking ‘After all that this is what she does?’ But she got her picture taken with them and there’s copies all over the house and I’m basically the coolest dad ever. But she killed me because how many of the great artists have I introduced her to over the years and she could’ve cared less. I mean they were nice kids I guess but I can’t even begin to understand their music,” Richie said shaking his head.

“Steph’s the same way, she’s a little past them but she could’ve cared less about Paul McCartney when we ran into him over the summer. But those two nights My Chemical Romance opened last year she was beside herself. She was like Paul who? But OMG its Gerard, hell I can’t even remember his last name. I was definitely the cool dad for a while,” Jon said.

Across the roomDamned” blared from Angela’s purse and she rose to get it.

“I think I like the sound of that,” Richie teased.

She shooed him quiet as she answered it. “Hello? Tommy? I can’t hear you. Hold on lemme call you back,” she said hanging up. “I can’t hear over the music,” she said gesturing to the adjacent bar. “I’m gonna go outside and give him a quick call back.”

“Don’t go outside, you can use Matt’s office. I’ll walk you down, it should be much quieter down there,” Jon offered.

“He won’t mind,” Angela asked.

“Mr. Goes-with-the-flow? No way,” Jon said and gave Melissa a kiss on the forehead. “I’ll be right back.”

“I’ll be here,” she said forcing a smile.

Angela walked towards to door leading back into the bar. “Where are you going,” Jon asked.

“Matt’s office, unless I missed something,” Angela said.

“Not that way we’re not. Over here,” Jon said standing by the staff entrance.

“This is the staff door,” Angela said.

“Then it’s a good thing I know the owner,” he said waiting in the doorway for her.

He led her down a flight of stairs that ended in the kitchen. “It looks like you’ve done this before,” she said.

“I come here sometimes but there’s always fans here. They usually take pictures with Matt, that’s how I know they’re here. I don’t like to be bothered so I sneak in and out. Matt calls it the ‘Real VIP Entrance.’ Think you can keep a secret? Can’t let this get out,” Jon said navigating her through the kitchen.

“My lips are sealed,” she said as they entered a back hallway.

Jon knocked on the door in font of them and waited for a response. When he heard a faint “come in” he opened the door to find Vinny, Matt’s business partner, at his computer. The office was just as barren as the last time he was in here. Stark white walls and minimal decorations that only pertained to the bar hung on the walls.

“God your brother’s a pig. It’s amazing he can get any work done in all this mess,” Angela said looking at the sea of papers on the vacant desk.

“You never cease to amaze me. Hey, Vinny, how are you,” Jon said.

“Can’t complain. Good to see you Jon,” Vinny said standing to talk to Jon.

“Nice to see you too. This is Angela. Ang this is Vinny, Matt’s partner,” Jon said.

“Nice to meet you,” Angela said extending her hand.

“Likewise. Is this the new woman in your life that I’ve heard about,” Vinny asked.

“Not exactly. This is her friend though,” Jon said.

“And I’m happily married,” Angela said pointing to her ring.

“Right, if you’re looking for your brother he’s obviously not here, but is there something I can do for you,” Vinny asked.

“She got a call upstairs but couldn’t hear anything so I just took her down to call back,” Jon said.

“Not a problem, you can use the land line if you’d like,” Vinny offered.

“I’ve got my cell, but thanks,” Angela said.

“I’ll give you some privacy,” Vinny said heading to the door.

“Thanks Vin. And we’re upstairs in the VIP room, stop by and say hi,” Jon said.

“I’ll do that. See you later,” he said closing the door behind him.

“What are you gawking at,” Jon asked.

“I’m actually in Matt Bongiovi’s office. This is where the fan club work gets done, and the updates that I get to my phone from the bar. Crazy being in here,” she said.

“You’re star struck by my kid brother’s office. You’re a piece of work, ya know that,” Jon said.

“Shut up, you love every minute of it,” she teased. “Now be quiet I have to call my husband,” she said dialing her phone.

Angela talked to him for a few minutes giving him the rundown of the day and their plan for tomorrow. He could only talk a few minutes because the dinner crowd was in full force. She said goodbye and saw Jon lying out on the black couch on the far side of the office.

“Comfy,” she asked.

“Oh yeah. It used to be mine in the studio, but we we’re getting rid of it and Matt’s always good to take my used stuff. Easy to please he is. Is everything ok at home,” Jon asked.

“You mean Tommy? Yeah he was just checking in and saying goodnight. All that good stuff,” Angela said.

“Are you itching to get back up fast, or can I talk to you a minute,” Jon asked.

“Is this about Melissa,” she asked worriedly. Jon nodded, “Move over on the couch there buddy. Lemme have it.”

“I don’t want to make a big deal about nothing here but-“

“If you love her and you care, its not nothing,” she said trying to reassure him.

“Don’t tell her I said anything to you, but I think maybe she should talk to someone. About what happened,” Jon said holding his breath waiting for her response.

“I tried for a long time, but she has to want help you can’t force it on her or it’s counterproductive,” Angela said.

“But I think it would be good for her,” Jon said.

“I do too, but she’s a strong woman don’t forget that. She’s been through a hell of a lot as you know and it’s made her stronger. I think she’s the strongest person I know. If anyone can get through this its her, unless there’s something you aren’t telling me,” Angela said.

“Well yesterday morning we were in bed and she woke up in a panic. She told me it was a nightmare like a flash back or something,” Jon said.

“Damn she really did tell you everything didn’t she,” Angela said almost in disbelief.

“She said it happened when she was stressed and we had one hell of a Saturday, so I was concerned but I almost let it go. I thought she needed help but there was an explanation behind it. But then this morning I was up before her and I could tell she was having another one, but she never woke up. I think I talked her through it but when I asked her about it, it was like she had no idea. I’m really worried about her,” Jon said.

“She doesn’t remember them all. It started when she started seeing you, it brought up some stuff in her subconscious. She stayed at my house like a couple months ago and I noticed and then of course after you guys split. I didn’t think there was a reason to upset her if she wasn’t saying anything,” she said.

“I can’t believe I hurt her so bad and neither of us knew it. I really want to help her,” he said.

“You can try, but there’s no promises there. I tried for years, if you can get through to her I’ll be forever indebted,” she said.

“I’m gonna try like hell,” he said.

“Just don’t push too hard or she’ll push back. What else,” she asked.

“That’s it.”

“Don’t you start lying to me, I’ve known you long enough to know when you answer something too quickly,” she said firmly.

“She’s just been a little off today and she won’t talk to me,” Jon said.

“She probably won’t talk to any of us, especially not until she’s ready,” she answered.

“Why?”

“She’s in a bit of a funk and she’s been a little stressed, and she’s probably thinking about her mom a lot. It’ll come in time,” she said.

“I’m not known for my patience,” he said.

“Well, if you plan on sticking around, I suggest that you work on that,” she said.

“Oh, I’m sticking around,” he said smiling.

“Good, ‘cuz I kinda like you,” she teased.

“Oh yeah? I had no idea,” he said smiling.

“But come one we better get back up there before they miss us,” she said standing.

“Like they don’t already,” he said.

“See I knew I liked you,” she teased.

“Thanks for listening,” he said.

“Of course, anytime you need me I’m here. Especially if it’s about Mel,” she said opening the door.

“You’re a great best friend you know that,” he asked leading her back up through the kitchen.

“I know, but you can tell me anytime,” she said with a smile.

So now I think I’ve got a game plan, just to put it in motion, he thought as they reentered the VIP room.

“Hey baby did you miss me,” Jon asked sitting down next to her on one of the plush couches.

“I’m glad you’re back now,” she said with the same empty look in her eyes.

Friday, April 10, 2009

Chapter 54

“Ok so I need to know every detail,” Angela said.

“We don’t have time for every detail, those two out there will die of boredom first,” Melissa said.

“You left them the remote and a laundry list of chores, I think they’re more then occupied as you dish to your best friend about your magical weekend,” Angela said.

“I asked them if they minded its not like I just put them to work,” Melissa said.

“Still you have Jon Bon Jovi and Richie Sambora doing household chores in your apartment. I could just die,” Angela said falling onto the bed.

“I asked them to unpack the dishwasher and feed the cats. It’s not like they’re doing heavy labor. God knows Jon wouldn’t know how,” Melissa said with a laugh from her closet.

“I’d love to know how you know that, but I want all the other details first. You like fell off the face of the earth. I think I only talked to you three times since Friday. Which I can take as a good thing. But I want to know it all,” Angela said.

“Well I’ll fill you in until I’m done changing but you’re gonna have to wait for the rest,” Melissa said searching for something to wear. “What do you want to know?”

“I thought I already told you! Everything,” Angela said.

“You’re gonna have to be more specific,” Melissa said grabbing a handful of hangers from the closet.

“Those are the pants you’re wearing,” Angela asked when Melissa returned.

“I was gonna do laundry this weekend, and they’re clean. Why is something wring with them,” Melissa asked.

“No, you just don’t usually wear them, that’s all. They’re a little sexy, like date night pants,” Angela said.

“Perfect, not exactly the look I was going for,” Melissa said laying shirts over her bed. “You better start asking questions before I figure this out.”

“Ok, ok. Umm, you two look really good and happy so everything’s good there,” Angela asked.

“Better then good Ang. I didn’t know it could get this good. This one,” Melissa asked modeling a shirt.

“Not with those pants. And you guys really talked,” Angela asked.

“Yeah,” Melissa said trying another top.

“Are you ok,” Angela asked trying to read her best friend.

“I am,” she said looking in the mirror.

“And Jon.”

“Well at first I didn’t think he was, but then some stuff happened. But I think he gets it, and he’s ok with that. We’re good now,” Melissa said.

“What do you mean ‘stuff happened,’” Angela asked suspiciously.

“Not now, Angela. How does this look,” Melissa asked turning to look at her.

“You’re good to go,” Angela answered with a smile.

“You sure,” Melissa asked.

“I knew the minute I saw it on the hanger,” Angela said.

“Then why didn’t you tell me and save me some time,” Melissa asked.

“Because I wanted details,” Angela said smiling.

“Come on, we’ve gotta go or we’re gonna be late,” Melissa said.

“Fine, be the responsible adult,” Angela said following her to the hall.

“Are you ladies ready,” Richie called from the couch.

“Yup, we’re good to go,” Melissa said entering the living room.

“You look nice,” Jon said giving her a thorough once over.

“Thank you,” Melissa answered. “Are you guys ready to go?”

“We we’re just waiting for you,” Jon said standing and wrapping his arm around her waist.

“What about you ya bum? You don’t tell me how wonderful I look, you don’t jump up when I walk in the room. I think I’m gonna have to find me a new man,” Angela teased.

“Anything but that. You ain’t getting rid of me,” Richie said jumping to his feet. “You want me to get down on my knees and beg? Please don’t go. You look gorgeous from head to toe. I was overwhelmed by your beauty it clouded my good judgment.”

“That’s better,” Angela teased.

“Come on you two, I don’t wanna be late,” Melissa said grabbing her purse from the table.

“Yes mom,” Angela said.

“Ang do you have your keys out,” Melissa asked.

“I can drive, I don’t mind,” Jon offered.

“It’s alright, Angela will drive she knows where she’s going anyway. Besides you just drove an hour this morning,” Melissa said.

“Got ‘em,” Angela said holding her keys. “We’re outta here.”

“Uh-oh we’re letting her drive. You don’t exactly give off the vibe of a safe and cautious driver,” Richie said holding the door open.

“Why because I’m a woman, or because I’m from Jersey,” Angela asked.

“Both and because you’re Angela,” Richie said with a smile.

“You did not just say that,” Angela said punching him in the arm.

“See you’re impulsive,” Richie said rubbing where she hit him.

“They bicker like an old married couple,” Jon said smiling at Melissa.

“That they do,” Melissa said walking down the stairs and out the front door.

“So how far are we going,” Jon asked following her outside.

“It’s only a couple towns over. Probably no more then 15 minutes,” Melissa said as she turned to see Richie and Angela tumble out of the building still laughing and bickering.

“You’re probably just as bad as I am. I’ve heard stories about you mister,” Angela said as they came into hearing distance.

“I’m beginning to wonder what I did for fun before I knew you,” Richie said laughing.

“Well now you’re stuck with me, so to hell with the past,” Angela said unlocking the car doors.

Jon opened the front passenger door for Melissa before joining Richie in the back seat. Angela pulled out onto the main road as Melissa read the directions. The two men were involved with their blackberries as Melissa directed Angela. Once they hit a long stretch of road Angela looked at Jon in the rearview mirror.

“Hey Jon,” she said.

“Yes, ma’am,” he answered stowing his phone in his pocket.

“I think its safe to say we’re friends, and you and my best friend are quite a hot item, right,” she started.

“Right,” he answered suspiciously.

“And friends ask friends favors,” she said.

“Yeah,” he answered still unsure.

“See now I was wondering since the funeral is down in Seaside tomorrow, which is over two hours from here, if I could stay at your house because its less then an hour from you,” she said a little unsure.

“Hell yes,” Richie chimed in.

“Angela, you can’t ask him that,” Melissa said horrified.

“Why don’t you two let me be the judge of that,” Jon started as Richie started a chorus of ‘say yes, say yes’ in his ear. “I would love to have you for the night.”

Richie let out a relieved cheer as Melissa turned to look at him. “You don’t have to do that you know, she was more then a little outta line.” Turning to look at her best friend, “I can’t believe you did that and didn’t ask me first.”

“I thought you’d say no, and its two hours from here and we have to be down there early,” Angela said.

“I really don’t mind. The more people in that house the better,” Jon said.

“That’s not an open invitation,” Melissa said as they pulled into the school parking lot.

“Party at Jon’s tonight baby,” Richie said smiling from the back seat as Angela found a parking spot.

They all got out of the car when Angela turn off the engine and Jon caught Melissa’s arm before she passed him. He gave a quick look to Richie who led Angela away before he spoke. “What’s the matter,” he asked gently.

“I’m sorry she shouldn’t have asked you,” Melissa answered.

“Don’t worry about that, I didn’t think twice about it. You’re friends are my friends and my house is your house. At least she had a good reason to stay,” Jon said smiling.

“Are you positive you don’t mind, because I can tell her you changed your mind,” Melissa said.

“Sweetie stop that, I don’t want you to worry about it. Unless it makes you uncomfortable I’m fine with it. And I’m sure you two are gonna wanna catch up,” Jon offered.

“I’m still so sorry,” Melissa said.

“No, I don’t wanna hear that again. It’s more then fine with me. Don’t put a second thought to it,” Jon said.

“You’re positive?”

“One hundred percent. Is there something else bothering you,” Jon asked.

“No, we should get in there before we’re late,” Melissa said.

“You’re sure,” Jon asked.

“Positive,” she answered putting on her best fake smile.

“Then lets go,” Jon said sliding his arm around her waist.

They made their way in the building and followed the signs to the auditorium where a couple hundred parents, students, faculty and friends were gathered. They saw Angela waiting by the door for them.

“We’ve got some seats saved, Richie’s up by them but I think some of the high school girls are fawning over him. Not that I think he minds much,” Angela said.

“It’s gonna start in a couple minutes, I should go try to save him,” Jon said giving Melissa a quick peck on the lips before he left.

“You’re mad at me aren’t you,” Angela asked.

“I just wish you asked me first,” Melissa said.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t think you’d mind,” Angela said.

“And you knew he’d say yes,” Melissa said.

“I was kinda hoping,” Angela said.

“He said it was fine, don’t worry about it. Lets go sit,” Melissa said.

“Lets go find our men,” Angela said brightly.

Angela and Melissa walked up to where Jon and Richie were still talking with a few girls. They quickly left when Melissa and Angela joined them and they found their seats just as the principal took the microphone.

“Hello everyone, thank you for coming today. We are all here to celebrate the life of one of our students, Lindsay Connors. Now I know that her parents wanted to say something but her class has prepared something as well that they would like to share with you,” the principal said before turning the microphone over to the 7th grade homeroom teacher.

Over the next hour most of her classmates read letters they wrote to her family, or stories they wanted to share with the group in remembering and celebrating Lindsay’s life. Collective tears were shed, laughs shared, and memories made as each student spoke. When they were finished her mother, with a surprising amount of composure, spoke to the crowd.

“I just wanted to personally thank everyone for being here this afternoon. The overwhelming amount of love and support we have been receiving during this time has been a comfort to our family. We wanted to thank the school for arranging this today, and I believe there are refreshments in the back, please enjoy.”

Everyone dispersed throughout the room as they visited with one another. They spoke briefly with the family before they left about a half hour later. They stopped back at Melissa and Angela’s homes so they could gather their necessary items for the night before heading back to Jon’s. Jon grabbed their bags and followed Angela down to his car as Melissa closed up her apartment for the night.

“Are you sure you don’t mind, Jon? I mean I did spring it on you,” Angela asked as they walked through the parking lot.

“I don’t mind a bit. That house was so empty for so long, it loves the company,” Jon said brightly.

“Thanks I appreciate it. I really only asked because it’s a bitch of a ride to do alone in the morning,” Angela said as she opened the trunk for him.

“Its no trouble at all, can you just do me a favor later,” Jon asked.

“Name it,” Angela said.

“Can I talk to you for a little,” he asked.

“Course, is everything ok,” she asked.

“I’m just a little worried about Melissa,” Jon said loading the last bag in.

“Is she ok?”

“I’m just a little worried about her and I wanted you’re opinion. You know her better then anyone else,” Jon said.

“Now we can finally go,” Richie called from behind them.

“What’s got you so impatient today,” Melissa asked.

“Just itching to get outta this shirt,” Richie said.

“Don’t stop on our account,” Angela teased.

“Don’t tempt me,” he said as he got into the back seat with Angela.

“Ready to go baby,” Jon asked.

“Oh yeah,” Melissa said with a smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes.

“The lets hit the road,” he said. I’m gonna fix this for her, I’ve got to, he thought as he squeezed her hand and merged back onto the highway.