Chapter 38

Jon’s week had somehow been relatively unexciting yet eventful leading up to Wednesday morning. Monday he had had his first taste of fighting with Steph trying to get her to go to school. When he went to wake her up at 7 o’clock when she didn’t come down for breakfast, she said she was too tired from the weekend to get up and go in. Part of Jon wanted to give in just to avoid the fight but the thought of this coming out at the week’s parent teacher conferences quickly changed his mind. He’d rather fight with his daughter now in his own home than with his ex, in front of her teachers about what an irresponsible parent he was.

When he dropped her off at school, 45 minutes late, he felt at peace with his decision. She may not appreciate it now but as a parent he truly did have her best interest in mind. One day may not be a big deal now, but it was better to stop a bad habit before it began. On her lunch break she sent him a text message making him nearly glow for the rest of the day. i know u were right this morn…im sry I yelled @ u.. With little rewards like that how could anyone not want to be a parent? He knew that he had gotten lucky with her, he had heard horror stories from other parents about their teenage daughters, which only made him that much more thankful for his own daughter.

Tuesday came just at cold as they had predicted, it didn’t get any warmer than 25° and the wind was whipping. An unusual cold front left a cranky Jon, in his Michelin Man coat, in the frigid weather for nearly four hours with 40 equally cranky first graders, two teachers, two teacher aides, and three other parents. The other parents, mothers of course, didn’t seem to be bothered by the cold one bit. Word must’ve gotten out that he would be on the field trip and it seemed they were dressed up especially for the occasion, unless they usually wore boots to go hiking and opted for a fashionable coat rather than a warm one in similar weather.

Jon didn’t always mind the attention though, his group of five boys were exactly that, five boys who were full of energy, and the other mothers took pity on him and lent a hand when they could. With the perks however came the shameless flirting from both the married women and the newly single mom. Jon remained polite, while trying not to freeze or lose a child, not wanting to give any of them the slightest indication that he was interested. Not going public with his relationship with Melissa was proving to become difficult, because he couldn’t simply say he was taken. He couldn’t let Jake overhear, and if one of the women found out it would surely get back to Dot. This was her territory after all. The boys all went to the same private school and she seemed to have a hand in all the gossip while Steph went to the Catholic high school in town.

Two hours of apple picking, an hour for what should’ve been an enjoyable picnic lunch, and another hour or so letting the kids run wild did eventually take their toll on Jon. He didn’t notice it much on the bus ride back to the school as Jake napped on his lap, much to his pleasure, but by the time he picked Steph up he was developing a sore throat and a dreaded stuffy/runny nose. Dinner in Amalia’s care consisting of big pot soup seemed to help a bit, but he was still on the cold-y side when he pulled in the hospital parking garage Wednesday morning. He bundled up thoroughly today, not wanting to take any chances on his way from the garage to the building, fully equipped with the Michelin Man coat, hat, gloves and a scarf, even though it was a good 15° warmer than the day before.

He made the familiar walk thinking about the phone call he had received earlier that day. His mother had called to check on him, as she often did, but also told Jon that she and his father would be making their last trip up north for the year before Christmas. They were flying up the next morning and she was asking Jon to pick them up at the airport. He quickly obliged and told her that she would probably get to spend the day with the kids while he and Dot were in conferences. When he offered his house to them she told him that they were staying with Matt because his wife Desire was expecting in a few weeks. In Jon’s head he knew it made sense, but part of him hoped that it would be nice to have a little bit of family in the house for Steph besides Richie popping in for a few days every month or so. He had avoided telling her about Melissa, he would rather do that in person, and he wanted to see if Melissa had meant what she said about meeting his parents. If it seemed too soon for her he could make an excuse to postpone it until their annual Christmas trip.

Before he knew it he was passing the familiar faces in the lobby and was quickly in the elevator starting to shed some of his winter gear. When the doors opened on the fourth floor Angela was walking by with another nurse and dropped the charts she was holding when she saw him.

“Oh my god, I think that coat is more hideous in person,” she said her jaw nearing the floor. “Yet in a strange, strange way you kinda pull it off.”

“Thanks, I think,” Jon said picking up the charts from the floor.

“I didn’t think it was cold enough for that coat yet,” she said still staring.

“You weren’t outside the entire day yesterday. If you were, you’d be wearing it too,” Jon said with a quiet sniffle.

“Yeah, yeah. You better hide that thing in Mel’s office before the clowns enlist you in their traveling group, or you scare the kids, or someone else sees you,” Angela said taking the charts from him.

“I think I just might do that,” Jon said. “You’re coming aren’t you?”

“Where,” Angela asked curiously. “I mean yes obviously, wherever you go I will gladly follow.”

“Melissa’s office, besides I know you want to try this thing on,” Jon said.

“Well if you insist, how could I refuse one of our favorite volunteers. Can you take these to the nurses station for me,” Angela said handing the charts to the other nurse.

“Of course, nice to see you again, Jon,” the nurse said as she left them.

Angela chatted as they headed to the office and she kept punching his arm to see if he could feel it, through all the layers. Much to her delight he couldn’t and she continued to sneak punches at him until he finally took it off and she put it on herself.

“It’s so heavy. I think if I walked in this I would burn twice the amount of calories I usually would,” Angela said as she was drowning in the coat. “How can you even move it this thing?”

“Well I don’t exactly think it’s your size for one,” Jon said starting to feel defensive of his coat. It had certainly taken its share of verbal abuse for years.

“I know but I kinda feel like a little kid in a snow suit,” Angela said.

“Enough with the poor coat, it does its job and that’s what matters right,” Jon asked.

“I guess, but man I could show you pictures,” Angela said taking it off and handing it to him.

Jon threw it on one of the empty chairs and it sat up on its own, almost taking the shape of person. Angela giggled at the sight, but didn’t say a word with one look from Jon. He muttered something under his breath to the coat before turning to Angela heading to the door.

“So where’s Mel today,” Jon asked holding to door open.

“She’s with a new patient. I don’t think I’ve seen her leave that room all day. I think you may be in trouble mister, I think there’s someone else who’s stolen her heart,” Angela said.

“A new patient,” Jon asked curiously. He was surprised to find himself so attached to the patients he had met over the last month, and was ready to meet a new one and form a new relationship.

“Oh yes, I think I’ll have or rather you’ll have a hard time getting her outta here tonight. I’ll take you down there in a minute, but first I swore that I would take you to Miss Lindsay the second you arrived, but I couldn’t let her see you in your perfectly functional coat,” Angela said smiling.

“She’s around,” Jon asked his eyes lighting up when Angela mentioned her.

“I knew what time you were coming in, so I may have switched a couple things around so she could see you while she was feeling up to it,” Angela said.

“Perfect,” Jon said heading in the appropriate direction.

When they reached her room, Angela knocked before heading in. “Hey, Linds, how are you feeling? There’s someone here who wants to say hi.”

Jon could hear the girl inside answer excitedly, “Is he here?”

Angela gave him a nod and he walked into her room and gave her his customary hug. “How are you feeling today kiddo?”

“It’s been a bad morning but I’m much better now,” she said smiling from ear to ear.

Jon hugged her mother and gave her a supportive smile, as they had become close over the past couple of weeks. Angela walked behind Jon and whispered in his ear, “I’ll give you a couple of minutes in here before she has to go,” before she left.

“May I,” Jon asked her mother gesturing to one of the chairs next to the bed.

“Of course, Jon,” she said sitting back on the bed that she had called home during the weeks her daughter had been hospitalized.

“Thanks,” Jon said taking a seat. “Now Lindsay, I heard that you had quite a wonderful weekend. Anything special?”

“Yes! The concert was amazing. I can’t wait till I get outta here and I can go to one for real,” Lindsay said.

“Wait, do you mean to tell me that you’ve never been to a show,” Jon asked and Lindsay shook her head. “I thought you had been. You talk about the shows like you’ve been there before.”

“I have all the concerts on DVD,” Lindsay said pointing to her collection on one of the shelves.

“I see, but that’s not quite the same now is it? As soon as you’re outta here, and healthy enough I might just have to have a concert for you. If not the next tour, any show you want the tickets are yours. You, your mom and dad, whoever. You’ll have the seats in front of my kids, that good,” Jon said as Lindsay looked at him in shock.

“Lindsay what do you say,” her mother said in disbelief of the generous offer that was made.

“That’s ok, Elise, her face says it all,” Jon said.

“Well, thank you all the same. It’s greatly appreciated, such a kind offer,” Elise said.

“It’s my pleasure, I assure you. Now Lindsay, what was your favorite part of the show? I just have to know. And you can’t take the easy way out and say the part where I was chit chatting with you,” Jon said.

“I did love that part. It was soooooo cool. But I also loved when you danced with Miss Melissa and then you forgot to sing and Richie had to sing for you,” Lindsay said with a little giggle.

“You know I don’t think they’re gonna let me forget that one,” Jon said laughing.

“But you and Miss Melissa looked really cute together,” she said.

“We did, didn’t we,” Jon said. “What else did you like?”

“When you played the harmonica, and Dry County, and Stick to Your Guns,” she said eagerly.

“So you liked all that rare stuff huh? You have Mel and Ang to thank for those,” Jon said remembering the long list of songs they gave him.

“I will, it was awesome. But my mom liked a different part, she was crying and everything,” Lindsay said.

“Lindsay that’s not what he asked you,” Elise said embarrassedly.

“That’s ok, you can tell me whatever your little heart desires,” Jon said to Lindsay before turning to her mother. “May I ask what it was?”

“I thought the tribute you made to your daughter was breathtaking, got me all emotional looking at my baby girl. Who knew you a rock concert could have that affect on someone. But the part that really got me was your daughter. That’s what every parent wants to hear deep down isn’t it? The pure appreciation of what we do, and a little ‘I love you’ goes a long way doesn’t it?”

“It sure does,” Jon said standing to give her a hug. “She loves you too you know. You’ve raised a wonderful daughter. I can’t even begin to imagine how hard this is, but you are doing a fantastic job. As a parent I know it may not always seem like we do things the right way, but they notice,” he whispered in her ear. She nodded at him and took her seat back on the bed.

“She’s really pretty, you’re daughter,” Lindsay said bringing his attention back to her.

“Well thank you, I will tell her you said that,” Jon said beaming with pride.

“How old is she,” Lindsay asked.

“She is just a couple of years older than you, she’s 15,” Jon said.

“That’s the same age as Catherine,” Lindsay said.

“Catherine,” Jon asked looking as Elise.

“My other daughter, she’s 15,” Elise answered.

“I had no idea you had another child,” Jon said.

“That’s because you’re here during the week while she’s at school. She comes by almost every evening during the week for a little while to visit and then Pat stays at home with her. She usually spends a full day on the weekend here too, its hard trying to fit friends into everything, but she’s making it work,” Elise answered.

“I bet you miss your sister huh,” Jon asked Lindsay.

“Yeah, we used to share a room but she comes and visits a lot,” Lindsay said grabbing a picture frame from the nearby table. “This is us right before I was admitted here,” she said handing him the frame.

“Two beautiful young ladies. You’re both gonna be quite the heartbreakers. You’re about the same ages as my oldest two and I know they miss each other, whether they wanna admit it or not,” Jon said looking at the picture.

“You have another kid who’s my age,” Lindsay asked.

“My son Jesse James is a year older than you,” Jon said.

“Cool I didn’t know that,” Lindsay said.

“Yup, I’ve got three boys and my little girl,” Jon said proudly.

“Four kids, you’ve certainly got your hands full,” Elise said. “I thought two was a lot.”

“They can be a handful, but they’re my pride and joy. Don’t get me started about them, I could be here all day,” Jon said.

“Well then, I guess I’ll have to cut you off right there,” Angela said from the doorway.

“Aw, do I have to go already,” Lindsay asked.

“I’m sorry, but you do. I pulled some strings to switch your time, you don’t wanna make me look bad and show up late do you,” Angela teased.

“Ok,” Lindsay said.

“Jon, Elise, if you just step in the hall so we can get her transferred,” Angela said and they obliged.

When the transport team rolled her out a minute later Lindsay said goodbye to her mom and Jon. “Not so fast kiddo, I don’t know where you’re goin’ but I hear they allow music there. Since I can’t go and serenade you myself, I’ve got other people to see you know, how about this for a couple hours,” Jon said handing her an ipod from his pocket.

“Really,” she asked taking it from him.

“I cleared it with a nurse I know. It’s not the one I usually listen to; I don’t think you’d like that one too much. This one has all of the music we’ve ever recorded on it, including demos that didn’t make the 100 million and stuff since then,” Jon said.

“Thanks so much. I’ll take good care of it, I promise,” she said smiling as they wheeled her away.

“You didn’t have to do that,” Elise said.

“I know, but if something that simple can make her smile, why wouldn’t I? I know she makes me smile, I’m just trying to return the favor,” Jon said brightly. “Can I get you anything before I go?”

“No, no. You’ve done more than enough for me,” Elise said.

“Ok then, I’ll check in with you before I go then,” Jon said before she turned back into her daughter’s room.

“Now I’m sure you wanna find Mel,” Angela said. “I’ve got a bunch of meds to check and I’m swamped because we’re down a nurse today. I think I’m being punished for treating your coat so unfairly,” she said. “She’s down the hall all the way on the left, room 4982.”

“Thanks, I’ll see you in a bit,” Jon said as she left.

Jon made his way down to the end of the hall, briefly checking in on a few of the patients on the way. When he came to room 4982 he found a note on the door scribbled in Melissa’s handwriting: Don’t even think about knocking…SHHH! Jon did as the note advised and quietly opened the door to one of the most beautiful sights he had ever seen.

Chapter 37

“I’m sorry,” Jon said sheepishly.

“You’re sorry,” Melissa asked as Jon nodded. “For what?”

“I’m not exactly sure, but I was married long enough to know that ‘we need to talk’ really means ‘you’re in trouble,’ and I’m pretty sure I didn’t mean it. So I’m sorry.”

Melissa let out a laugh releasing a majority of her apprehension. “You don’t even want to know what you did?”

“So I did do something, huh,” Jon asked.

“Well yeah, but I don’t think you meant to. But we need some ground rules, I think that’s how Richie put it,” Melissa said.

Jon picked his head up at the mention of his friend’s name, “Richie,” he asked.

“Yeah, I talked to him last night. I need to talk to a friend and Angela just wasn’t cutting it,” she said.

“Why didn’t you come to me,” Jon asked.

“I just needed to talk to someone us from an objective-ish perspective, and I don’t think you really qualify for that. Why, are you mad,” she asked not knowing if she wanted to hear his answer.

“No, not really. I mean of course you can talk to Richie; I’m not about to tell you that you cant. I’m glad that you guys are friends, I just like being the one that you come to when you need something. Besides it still kinda throws me off that you can tolerate being in the same room as him let alone go to talk to him. He and my ex weren’t usually on speaking terms. Anyway you talked to Richie,” Jon said shaking his ex out of his head.

“Can I ask you something,” Melissa asked.

“Of course,” Jon answered curiously.

“And you’ll give me an honest answer,” Melissa asked.

“Melissa what’s wrong,” Jon asked and she shot him a ‘just answer the question’ look. “I promise.”

“What are we doing,” Melissa asked, holding her breath waiting for his answer.

“Right now, I’m not quite sure, talking,” Jon said genuinely confused.

“No I mean us, what are we doing? What are we trying to do?”

“Ooooh, one of those questions,” Jon said taking a breath. “I’ll start with the basics? We are dating; you are my girlfriend, which handily makes me your boyfriend. We’re getting to know each other, which we’ve done, wonders at. I know your two best friends and now you’ve met all of mine, and my daughter. How am I doing?”

“Good, but why are we doing this? No why are you doing this,” Melissa said trying to ask the right question to hear what she needed.

“Why? Because I enjoy your company, and you are an amazing woman and in a short time you have become an important part of my life. I mean I don’t know where this is gonna lead to in 5 years or in 5 months, but I know that hope that you’ll be a part of my life for a very long time,” Jon said hoping he answered the question correctly. She was asking him how he felt so there wasn’t a wrong answer, right?

She leaned over and gave him a kiss, “Perfect answer,” she said.

“Do I get a little more than that,” Jon asked.

“Oh, sorry. Of course you do. I was a little worried after the show last night that I cared way more about us than you did, but I think we’re right on track. After you poured your heart out to me on Friday night, and yesterday afternoon was wonderful seeing you in business mode but…”

“Tell me what I did, if you don’t tell me I’ll probably just do it again,” Jon said as a wave of guilt flooded over him.

“It wasn’t your fault, now I know we just should’ve talked about it before the show. But I kinda felt dispensable, like I could be your girlfriend to your friends and colleagues and employees even, but not the public. To them we were just friends,” Melissa said not wanting to meet his eyes.

“Mel what are you talking about sweetheart, you lost me somewhere. I never ever meant to make you feel like that; one thing I’ve learned is that you are in no was expendable. Especially since I’ve seen how well you and Steph get along,” Jon said and reached over to lift her chin so his eyes could meet hers. “I mean that, I really do.”

“Thank you, I believe you. Last night on stage you called me your friend. Now I can see why you did it, I just had to make sure, for my own peace of mind,” she said.

“Just so that we actually are on the same page and your not thinking something different, I honestly didn’t really think about it, but that may not have been the best place to announce that I’m dating someone new,” Jon said.

“I know, and I completely agree and understand, but in the moment I was just a little upset. But now I’m all good. But since we’re on the topic when are you planning on us coming out as a couple,” Melissa asked.

“To who exactly so you mean? The public or my family,” Jon asked.

“Either,” Melissa answered she hadn’t really given much thought to the latter.

“Well I’m pretty sure that there was at least one mole yesterday at the lunch who’s gonna tell someone who will tell someone and on and on that I had a gorgeous blond on my arm that I was calling my girlfriend. Give it time it will come out on it’s own. I’ve never been one to flaunt my private life, but I’d say a night or two out together after the rumors are started and it’ll be pretty official. My family on the other hand, I don’t want you to think I don’t want you to know them or them to know about you, but I think we should wait a little longer until we tell the boys at least the little ones. They’ve had a big adjustment with the divorce and their mom’s significant other just about moving in with them, and they’re still pretty mad that Steph moved out, I’d hate to throw something else new at them. But it has nothing to do with you I promise.”

“I believe you, thanks for being honest with me,” Melissa said.

“Of course, and I’d like you to meet my parents next time they’re in town. They live down in Florida but they pop up here from time to time,” Jon said and Melissa nodded. “Now anything else I did that I need to be set straight about?”

Melissa bit her lip almost not wanting to say anything, but knew it would be better for both of them if she just said it. “Jon I don’t want you to treat me like your ex-wife.”

“What my ex,” Jon asked confused. In his mind every horrible thing he had said or done to his ex flooded past as he looked at Melissa.

“I mean don’t assume I want what she wanted. I want to be part of all aspects of your life. I know that the media thing was never her thing and she hated it but I accept that its something that we’re well I’m gonna have to deal with. I don’t want you to have to separate that part of your life from me. Last night after the show you kinda worked the room and left me to do my own thing, I rather would have spent it with you,” she said.

“Really,” Jon asked in disbelief.

“Absolutely. I knew who I was getting involved with when we started dating, so I’m not about to starting holding facets of your life against you. Just if you don’t know ask, don’t assume that I’m gonna want everything the way she did, because you know what they say when you assume,” Melissa teased.

“Yeah, yeah, I promise I’ll ask you. Now with all that aside, did you have a good time last night,” Jon asked trying to lighten the mood.

“Are you kidding? I think it was once of the best shows I’ve ever been to, and I’m not just saying that,” Melissa said smiling.

“Good, but you see I’m at a bit of a disadvantage here,” Jon said wryly.

“Oh yeah, why’s that,” she asked.

“It seems that you now know my hidden talent, but I have no idea what yours is, so spill,” he said.

“I don’t think anything I saw you do last night was a ‘hidden talent’. A talent maybe but hidden, not so much,” Melissa teased.

“Oh come on tell me what it is,” Jon said trying to coax it out of her.

“No way mister, that’s something I think I’m gonna have to show you,” Melissa said trying to keep a straight face as Jon smiled and wiggled his eyebrows. “Keep your mind out of the gutter rock star. Do we have plans yet for Saturday night?”

“I don’t think so why,” Jon asked with a boyish grin.

“Well, then I’ve got something special in mind for you,” Melissa said smiling at him.

“Oh yeah, what is it,” he asked.

“If I told you then it wouldn’t be a surprise, now would it,” she asked trying to be firm. He gave her his best ‘duck lips’ and pouty eyes and she leaned over to kiss him. The duck lips always got her and he was beginning to catch on to it, much to her dismay. When they pulled apart she looked him right in the eye and with an attempted scowl she muttered, “No more duck lips.”

He laughed and looked at her. It was nice to have that kind of affect on a woman again and he was definitely eating up every minute of it until she too would become immune to it. “I’ll try but no promises,” he said smiling.

Their attention was drawn to a pair of young women in their early twenties almost squealing a few feet from them nearly skipping over. Beneath his sunglasses Jon rolled his eyes and looked right at Melissa, “Are you sure you’re ready for all this,” he teased.

Before she could answer the two girls, dressed a little suggestively in too short skirts, and too tight tees from last nights show were right in front of them nearly jumping up and down.

“Oh my God, I just knew it was you, I had to convince her it was you,” the first girl said.

“It’s true I feel like a horrible fan, I wasn’t sure until I saw the duck lips,” the second girl answered.

“I’m flattered ladies,” Jon said politely but Melissa could tell that he was a little annoyed that they had interrupted their conversation.

Both of the girls giggled and when they made no move Jon realized they were gonna be one of those fans, the ones that thought that just because they found him that that entitled them to the next 5 hours of his life. Melissa set back and watched it unfold, not quite sure what to do or what these women were about to do.

“You were at the show last night, right,” Jon said playing along with their fantasies.

“We were, second row on the floor,” the second girl said still beaming.

“Well I’m glad you enjoyed the show but,” Jon started before he was cut off.

“Could we take a picture please,” the first girl said abruptly, as though she had just remembered how to speak after a temporary bout with amnesia.

“Of course,” Jon said standing thankful he had taken his glasses so they couldn’t see the looks he was giving them.

From across the way Jason, one of Jon’s security guards, was heading over to diffuse the situation. Melissa was surprised that she hadn’t noticed him before since it was the same man who had been with her and Angela the night before. He stood back a few feet to get a good sense of the situation before he made a move. The girls however were in full swing with one on each side of Jon their arms around him laughing and giggling at him. It wasn’t until he reminded that they wanted a picture did them make any effort to move their encounter along. One of the girls nearly threw her camera at Melissa with a quick, “could ya, thanks,” before taking her spot next to Jon. Melissa took the camera and stood in front of them where Jon mouthed, “I’m sorry,” to her. She shook her head and took a few pictures of the girls before they took their camera back and continued talking to him.

Jason grabbed her arm and whispered in her ear, “Miss Blake I think it’s time you should leave. If you just wait right over there,” he said pointing to the walkway back to the street.

“No I’m fine right here, thank you,” Melissa answered politely.

“Miss, I must insist that you wait over there until Mr. Bongiovi is finished,” Jason insisted trying to lead her away from the situation.

“No, I’m not leaving without Jon, let go of me,” Melissa said firmly but quietly taking her arm back from the much larger man.

Jon looked up when he heard Melissa and he gave Jason a nod to leave her alone while the two fans were still busily chit chatting away. Jason immediately apologized, but Melissa shook it off and assured him that she was fine. She stayed back from Jon a little bit, not wanting to involved in the conversation, but wanted to catch a little of what they were saying.

“How long are you in town for? When are you guys gonna start recording again? Is Richie still in town? Is he still single? What kinda cd is the next one gonna be? Are you gonna come to Giant’s on the next tour? Are you gonna do more shows for the Soul this year? Are the rumors true, is Dave’s show going to Broadway? When are you releasing the DVD from this tour? Obie hasn’t been answering questions, I know he was at the show last night but has he been on vacation? I saw Stephanie Rose was at the show last night why weren’t the boys there? What does the High Point flag really mean? Is it true that it’s only out when you’re there?” The two girls seemed to be asking questions one right after another not giving him any time at all to answer, and Jon seemed to be content to nod along to their questions as Melissa had to hold in a giggle.

“Sorry ladies, it’s been a pleasure but I have to be heading back to the hotel now. We’ve got a band meeting, but I’ll make sure Obie gets right on answering those questions for you,” Jon said trying to step away from them and Melissa stepped closer.

“Aww are you sure you have to go already,” the first asked.

“Yeah, I mean it’s not like they can start the meeting without you,” the second pleaded.

“I’m positive, but I’m glad you enjoyed the show and I’ll be sure to tell Richie that you enjoyed his solos last night, and I’ll tell Tico that you bought all of your sister’s baby clothes from him.” Jon said turning from one girl to the other.

“Really,” the one girl asked.

“Absolutely, cross my heart,” Jon said to which both girls responded with a squeal. Jason finally stepped over to the trio and the girls began to look nervous as they were really running out of time.

One of the girls frantically started to scribble on a piece of paper, “Here’s our numbers,” she said handing him a piece of paper. “We go to Drexel University right in town, so we’ll be here next time your down here.”

Jon politely took the paper from her as Melissa walked over next to them. “Thanks ladies, it was nice meeting you. Enjoy the weather while it lasts,” Jon said as took Melissa’s hand and with Jason right behind them made his way back to the hotel.

“I’m sorry about that,” Jon said.

“Don’t worry about it. It comes with the territory remember? It was actually a little entertaining I must admit. I think they knew more about you all then I did,” Melissa said laughing.

“Yeah you get those sometimes, usually they just like to say hi, but then others, well you saw. You were a great sport though,” he said giving her a kiss on the forehead. “Is everything ok with you two,” Jon asked Jason.

“Yes, sir, I was just trying to remove Miss Blake from the situation until you were finished, and she insisted on staying,” Jason answered him.

“It’s ok really,” Melissa said not wanting to get him in trouble.

Jon thought a minute before he spoke, it was his own fault for not knowing how Melissa would want to be treated that his staff were not properly informed. “Jason, forget everything that Dorothea ever asked you to do, and ask Melissa from now on what she wants unless I tell you otherwise.”

“Yes, sir, not a problem,” Jason answered a little relieved.

“Are you sure you’re ok you look a little rattled,” Jon asked her.

“I’m fine, but I am curious as to what you’re gonna do with the lovely Drexel students’ phone numbers,” Melissa teased.

“What we always do of course. It gets offered to the group and then goes to the highest bidder,” Jon said smiling.

Melissa rolled her eyes, “Come on now, what are you gonna do with it?”

“You think I’m kidding? Just wait and see,” Jon said with a laugh. “Anyway what are you up to this week?”

“I’m at the office tomorrow, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. Then it seems I’ve got a hot date for Saturday night, what about you,” she asked.

“Field trip Tuesday, a trip to see my girlfriend on Wednesday, parent teacher conferences on Thursday and Friday. But then I’ve a hot date Saturday night to look forward to,” Jon said smiling as they entered the hotel.

“Who’s field trip,” Melissa asked.

“Jake’s class is going apple picking. Dot was supposed to go but it’s gonna be in the 20’s on Tuesday so she thought it was a good time for me to ‘finally go on a field trip.’ Just what I wanted freezing my ass off with 35 6-year-olds in a wide-open field. Awesome,” Jon said not wanting to think of the disasters that could happen.

“Well I’m sure you’ll be warm in that big coat of yours. I always thought you could fit four of you in there so it must be warm enough,” Melissa teased.

“Now who looks like the stalker,” Jon teased as the entered the room where the band was already waiting for them.

“It’s about damn time love birds,” Richie said with a wink for Melissa.

“Yeah, yeah be nice,” Jon said as the guys made their way over to say hi to Melissa. This sort of camaraderie was new to Melissa but she was learning to embrace these new relationships.

Once they were all seated and had ordered Jon stood quietly at his seat and waited for the guys to turn their attention to him. Quickly checking to make sure that his daughter’s ipod was in place a few seats down from him he smiled and pulled the piece of paper from his pocket and held it up. “Any takers,” he asked.

“Uh-uh we need more than that,” Richie said.

“Drexel students, that’s all you’re getting,” Jon said. “And I think the number’ll be good for a while they said they were juniors and still undecided.”

“Students,” Dave asked his interest stirring.

“Two, I’ll give you that,” Jon said smirking.

“You just want you’re Manning helmet back that I won off of you this summer,” Richie said suspiciously.

“Damn right I want it back, what’s it worth to you,” Jon said.

“Don’t worry darlin’ I got it off of him at poker,” Richie said looking at Melissa. “And I’m not sure what it’s worth.”

“May I say something,” Angela said from across the table.

“Of course,” Tico said.

“It’s just my observation, but Mr. Torres and Mr. McDonald aren’t you married? And Mr. Bryan aren’t you in a very committed relationship of multiple years? And Mr. Sambora I understand you’re single and all but I would hate to think that you would just take that number. And Mr. Bon Jovi need I remind you who is sitting three seats to your left,” Angela said with enough guilt in her voice to leave all four men looking thoroughly embarrassed. “Now I’m not about to tell you what to do of course, just reminding you of the facts.”

Jon sighed and left the number in the middle of the table, who was he to argue with her when she was right? Melissa certainly brought new elements into his life including her friends, which aside from the current situation even though he had brought it on himself, have been nothing but warm and welcoming to him. He sat down and watched his friends around him return to their conversations knowing that not only was this weekend an overwhelming success in his eyes, but it was something that he hoped would happen again and again.

Chapter 36

A few hours later Richie was woken by a vibrating cell phone that his legs were resting on. Taking a minute to look around he saw Melissa was curled up next to him, his shirt showed evidence of the tears she had shed and his efforts to comfort her. Answering the phone in a daze he grumbled a low “yeah” not wanting to wake Melissa.

“What do you mean ‘yeah’? Who is this? Where is Melissa,” a voice said on the other end of the phone.

“Angela,” Richie asked.

“Of course its Angela! Who were you expecting? Now who is this and where is Melissa,” she answered in a near panic.

“Calm down, Ang, its Richie. Melissa’s here with me but she’s asleep. I guess we fell asleep, what time is it,” Richie answered careful to keep his voice down.

“It’s after nine! Do you know how worried I was when she wasn’t in her bed? She left like eight hours ago and I haven’t heard from her, I of course thought the worse. She’s ok though,” Angela asked.

“Yeah she’s fine. We did a lot of talking last night. She’s asleep do you want me to wake her and walk her back to her room or let her sleep,” Richie asked.

“It doesn’t matter to me, at least I know she’s safe,” Angela said. “And Richie thanks for taking care of her last night. I know she was upset.”

“It was my pleasure, whatever I can do to help a friend,” Richie said as Melissa began to stretch in her sleep. “I think she’s waking up, I’ll see you in a little while.”

“Thanks Richie,” Angela said and hung up.

“Melissa,” Richie whispered in her ear. “Mel are you awake?”

“Richie,” Melissa asked in a grumble.

“Yeah darlin’ it’s me. We fell asleep and a very worried Angela just called to check on you. Sounds like you missed curfew,” Richie teased.

Melissa smiled, “Yup that sounds like Angela. I’m sorry I didn’t mean to fall asleep on you,” Melissa said sitting up and leaving the warmth of his chest.

“Not problem at all. Can I get you something before you leave,” Richie offered standing from the couch.

“Absolutely not. You gave me everything I needed last night,” Melissa said smiling brightly.

“That’s what I like to hear, another satisfied customer,” Richie said offering her his hand as she stood. “Let me get you back to your room before we get grounded or something.”

Melissa grabbed her key from the table and Richie handed her, her phone and she headed for the door with Richie right behind her. She stopped out side her door to thank him again. “You have no idea how much I appreciate you listening.”

“I’d say it was my pleasure, but that would sound kinda weird you know? But I’d do it again in a heartbeat if you needed me to listen. That’s what friends do silly,” Richie said giving her a hug.

The door opened in dramatic fashion and a frazzled Angela was standing there watching the two hug. “Oh sure hug it out. You gave me a friggin’ heart attack you know that! Do you know how quick worst case scenarios can run through a person’s mind? I woke up and I was mad because I didn’t mean to fall asleep, but then I saw your empty room. I don’t think I should have kids if they do this to you.”

“I think that’s my cue to leave,” Richie said. “I’ll see you two later,” he said giving Melissa a kiss on the forehead before leaving them.

“Sorry mom I didn’t mean to worry you,” Melissa said stepping into their room.

“Don’t give me that! You would’ve worried too, and you know it. What happened,” Angela asked.

“Nothing we were just talking for a long while and then we must’ve fallen asleep,” Melissa said. “I have to go talk to Jon, I’m just gonna change quick. Is that coffee I smell?”

“Yes its coffee, do you think I could properly worry about you without a little caffeine in me? Am I getting any details,” Angela asked.

“Nope, not now at least. But you can pour me a cup of coffee, if you don’t mind,” Melissa said walking to her room.

Angela entered her room a few minutes later, coffee mugs in hand and sat on the edge of Melissa’s bed. Melissa was already changed into jeans and a tee shirt and was working on her hair. “Can you at least tell me if we’re still mad at Jon,” Angela asked offering her one of the mugs.

“No, we’re not. I understand why he did it, thank god for Richie. I just need to talk it over with him,” Melissa said taking a long drink from her mug. “Ok I’m gonna go see if Jon’s around. I’ll see you later at lunch.”

“You know, I should lock you in this room and make you tell me everything. But I’ll take your word for now,” Angela said giving her a hug before making her way to the living room.

Melissa took one more look in the mirror before grabbing her purse and headed for the door. She walked down the hall and knocked on his door, and Steph quickly answered the door.

“Morning Melissa,” she said smiling.

“Morning,” Melissa answered brightly. “Is your dad around, I was hoping to catch him.”

“He’s in the shower, he should be out soon,” Steph said.

“Oh, ok, can you just tell him I stopped by,” Melissa asked.

“You can come in and wait for him, if you want,” Steph offered.

“If you don’t mind that would be great,” Melissa said.

“Not at all, I’m just catching up on some TV,” Steph said holding the door open for Melissa as she entered. “There’s some coffee on the table over there if you want some,” she said pointing.

“Perfect, I only had half a cup before I left,” Melissa said fixing herself a second cup. “Is there anything good on?”

“Not really. I’m flipping between The Nanny and old reruns of ER,” she called from the living room area.

“Sounds like an exciting morning,” Melissa said. “Not in the mood to check the news?”

“Dad had it on a little bit before, but there was a bunch of coverage from the show last night so I changed it when he left,” Steph said.

“Why don’t you check VH1, I think I heard Tommy talking about some marathon of I Love the New Millennium. That’s entertaining, if you haven’t seen it yet. It makes me feel old that the stuff I had in college has made it on one of those shows,” Melissa offered.

“Sure,” Steph said finding the right channel.

Melissa was explaining the ins and outs of “Napster” to a very confused Steph making Melissa feel way too old. “I don’t get it, why didn’t they just use itunes,” Steph asked.

“This was before itunes and ipods ever existed,” Melissa tried to explain.

“But then how did you listen to music,” Steph asked.

Melissa shook her head, “CD players, or if you wanna go way way back walkmans. There were no play lists, no touch screens. You put in a CD or tape and it just played the 10 or so tracks in order for you.”

“Weird,” Steph said listening to the end of the segment.

“Since we’re talking about music, why don’t we delve into what made 2000 its own. We had more than a variety of artists for the year,” the announcer began as artists flashed across the screen as they were mentioned in high speed. “In the top 20 alone we had two feuding boy bands, Britney and Christina before they were mothers also known as ‘pop princesses,’ Beyonce and her group-also known as Destiny’s Child, the Dixie Chicks and Faith Hill, before country was cool, the Beatles thirty years after their last CD, Eminem offending every people group on the planet, Limp Bizkit before front man Fred Durst went to jail, the Thong Song was released and Sisqó was worshipped by men around the world. Who else made the top 20? Stick around to find out, but first what band has stood the test of time and ended the year with a number one single nearly 20 years after their first?”

The voiceover ended and the chorus of It’s My Life poured out of the TV. Melissa instinctively hummed along, as Steph huffed and changed the channel before the voiceover could continue. She flipped back to The Nanny, and rolled her eyes.

“I bet that gets pretty weird, huh,” Melissa offered.

“Yeah, sometimes it’s like nothing’s safe. I was just watching Gilmore Girls the other day and they start singing Livin’ on a Prayer in the background. I mean really, Gilmore Girls? It’s just like sometimes I want him to just be dad that nobody knows, so I can turn on the TV and not see him anywhere or go to the store and not find him on any magazines. But it’s not like there aren’t perks to being Jon Bon Jovi’s daughter. Reservations and concert tickets are much easier to come by and its not like I know any different. The weirdest thing may be that people think that he’s perfect,” Steph said.

“I couldn’t even imagine seeing my dad on the TV all the time. It would be a little unnerving to see women throwing themselves at him too I guess,” Melissa said thinking.

“Well we were never anywhere where we could see the full extent of it, even when we were at shows. But I mean we do have computers. It’s amazing the stuff you can find on youtube. I mean I don’t sit on the computer and just look stuff up, but sometimes I get a little curious as to what the fuss is about and the stuff you can find is crazy,” Steph said. “It must be weird to see other women going gaga for your boyfriend too.”

“You know I thought it may be weird, but its not. I love seeing him in rock star mode, so it’s kinda like he’s a different person. Its kinda different when it’s your dad though I guess,” Melissa answered.

“Steph, I can be ready to go in like 10 minutes,” Jon said from behind them but he stopped when Melissa and Steph turned to look at him.

Fresh from a shower, Jon had only a towel around his waist and another in his hand as he tried to dry his hair. Melissa’s heart almost stopped as she examined the nearly naked Jon Bon Jovi in front of her. His abs and arms nearly glistened from the water, and his highly coveted chest hair was darker than usual with the water. Melissa sat nearly gawking at him, her mouth hanging open slightly, until Steph whispered in her ear. “He’s not perfect I promise. You probably think he’s looking pretty good now, but you should see him when he’s sick and coughing and sneezing up a storm, ick!”

Melissa couldn’t help but laugh, “I can’t believe you just said that.”

“Said what? I don’t think I like you two having secrets,” Jon said finishing his hair.

“My lips are sealed,” Melissa said standing and walking over towards him as Steph rolled her eyes.

“I’d give you a hug, but I don’t want to get you all wet,” Jon said giving her a kiss on the cheek.

“You guys have plans? I was hoping to talk to you this morning,” Melissa said.

“Steph asked me if we could go look at some exhibit at the museum next door,” Jon said.

“Oh no, you two go ahead. I’ll ask Cara if she’ll go with me. I know you would’ve walked around moaning and groaning like you did when we went to the Met. I was just looking for something to do so we weren’t stuck in the room until lunch,” Steph said.

“I wasn’t that bad,” Jon said defending himself.

“Are you kidding? I think Romeo would’ve been a better partner,” Steph said smiling.

Jon grabbed his chest as though he had been shot. “That hurts, Steph, Ro’s four.”

“Sorry dad, the truth hurts,” Steph said. “Perfect Cara said she’ll be over in a couple of minutes. And besides The Chronicles of Narnia sounds like something she may enjoy more than you.”

“Ok then, it sounds like much to Steph’s relief I’m all yours. Just let me get dressed quick,” Jon said and turned towards his room.

Melissa and Steph talked a little more about Jon, and more specifically all the “annoying dad stuff” he did. Melissa enjoyed getting to know his daughter and was disappointed when there was a knock at the door a few minutes later and Cara was waiting with one of the security guards from last night.

“Dad, Cara’s here. I’m leaving,” Steph called.

“One sec, Steph,” Jon called and appeared in the entryway seconds later. “Perfect timing. Now do you have your cell phone? That was a stupid question of course you have your cell, who am I talking to? Now be careful and stay with Michael and Cara, no wondering off.”

“I know, dad,” Steph said giving him a hug.

“I love you sweetie, have fun,” Jon said giving her an extra squeeze.

“I love you too, dad,” she answered.

“Thanks for taking her Cara, evidentially I’m not the museum type,” Jon said.

“Not a problem, Mr. B. We’ll see you in a few hours for lunch,” Cara said with her ever-present smile.

“Bye Melissa, I’ll see you later,” Steph said as she left with her mini entourage in tow.

“She’s a wonderful kid you know,” Melissa said. “I really like spending time with her, she lets me in on all your imperfections.”

“Don’t listen to a word of it,” Jon said teasing. “Now you said you wanted to talk?”

“Yeah, do you mind if we go for a walk? I think there’s a park a block or so from here, we passed it yesterday,” Melissa suggested.

“Sure, I think I know which one your talking about,” Jon said. “Just let me grab a hat and glasses.” On the table by the door was a small assortment of baseball caps and two pairs of sunglasses, there to aid him in his strive for anonymity.

“If it’s a big deal we can just stay in, I just thought some fresh air would be nice,” Melissa said not wanting to make him uncomfortable.

“Don’t be silly, fresh air sounds nice. People are usually pretty good here, but it’s not Jersey so I take this stuff just in case,” Jon said fully incognito, with an Adidas hat and a pair of sunglasses.

“No Soul hat,” Melissa asked.

“Are you kidding, if I did I should just wear a hat that says ‘Jon Bon Jovi,’” he said laughing. “If you saw a guy in a Soul hat, blond hair and sunglasses what would your first thought be?”

“You’ve got me there,” Melissa said knowing he was right.

“You got everything you need,” Jon asked grabbing the door.

“Yup, I’m ready,” Melissa said throwing her purse over her shoulder.

They walked hand in hand to the elevator, and made their way through the lobby and out the front doors. They walked in silence enjoying the cool fall day as Jon led them to a park down the road. They sat on a bench under a tree to keep themselves out of the flow of people traffic.

Jon turned to look at her before he spoke, “Now am I just such fantastic company or is there something in particular that you wanted to talk about?”

“I think we need to talk about us, especially after last night,” Melissa said remembering the pep talk that Richie had given her.