Chapter 87

After putting the little ones to bed, rather than returning downstairs Brianna escaped to her bedroom to think. She needed some time to let her emotions subside and her mind to clear......and to decide how to deal with Jon. She wanted to believe that he hadn't betrayed her on purpose, but it was hard to ignore the evidence in front of her. He knew what her father was like and how it made her feel, and yet he treated her the same way her father had - like he knew best despite her feelings.

She'd promised herself after her divorce that she would never put herself in that position again. Any relationship she entered into had to be based on mutual respect and equality. It had to be a partnership. She'd thought Jon understood that and agreed.  Now she wasn't so sure. First, he'd invited her family here without discussing it with her, then to add insult to injury, it appeared he was keeping her out of the business side of things too.

She leaned her head against the window, eyes squeezed shut against the pain. The Jon she saw today wasn't the man she thought she knew. Maybe it was just a one time deviation. She hoped it was. Or everything she'd built was a lie, and her instincts had failed her miserably.

She'd opened herself up to this man - this family - like she never had before in her life. And if she was wrong about the man he truly was.....if she was wrong she would lose everything.

She gave herself a mental shake. It had to be a mistake. A plan that went awry. Her instincts couldn't be that far off. She just had to calm down and let him explain. She couldn't let her visceral reaction to her father and his beliefs ruin what could be a wonderful relationship.

But what if she was wrong?

Downstairs, Stephanie eyed her father. "What's wrong with Bri?"

Jon didn't pretend not to know what she was talking about. Brianna had hardly spoken throughout dinner. Even after her family left, she remained subdued, only speaking when spoken to and then only to the kids. He sighed. "She's mad at me."

"Uh oh. What'd ya do?" Jesse snickered.

"I tried to surprise her by inviting her family over today." He grimaced. "It didn't go as well as I'd planned. Bri and her father.....don't exactly see eye to eye on some things."

"Like a woman's place in the world?" Stephanie guessed.

Jon's brows rose. He wasn't sure she was old enough to have understood what his comments meant. "You caught that?"

She shrugged. "Bri got all tense when he asked me if I thought running a business was an appropriate career for me. I figured she didn't like it."

"No, she didn't." He paused. "Steph....I didn't like it either. Most people don't think that way anymore. I want you to know that I believe you can be and do anything you put your mind to.  Whether it's looking after a house or looking after a company, as long as you're happy, I'll be proud of you."

"Thanks Dad." She hugged him, then leaned back. "Now go make up with your girlfriend."

"Yeah." Jon rubbed a hand over his face, sighed and stood. "Wish me luck. I think I'm going to need it."

"Apologize." His children advised in unison.

Jon snorted. "Thanks. I had that much figured out."

Upstairs, Jon stood in front of her door and took a deep breath before opening it. He decided against knocking, afraid she wouldn't let him in. Entering the room, he closed the door behind him. She was standing on the opposite side of the room, leaning against the window, arms hugging herself. When she turned her head to look at him, the pain in her eyes and the tears on her cheeks were like a knife to his heart. "I'm sorry."

She stared at him, her only response the slight lift of one eyebrow.

"I was trying to surprise you with a family get together."

She snorted.

"I know, I know, not my best idea ever. But I swear it wasn't done to hurt you. I just thought it would be good for the kids to meet them and vice versa."

"You really thought it was a good idea to expose the kids to my father's beliefs without preparing them first?"

"That was why you wanted to wait." The light bulb went on and he cursed his own impatience.

Brianna nodded. "You've seen what he can be like. It was their first meeting and he was already trying to tell Steph what was and wasn't 'appropriate'. And you've only heard his views on women. Wait until he enlightens you about children!"

"Let me guess: they should be seen and not heard?"

She nodded. "And always clean and tidy." The memory of her father's disapproving look at Romeo's chocolate covered face made her jaw clench. "I wanted to protect them from that. But you knew better. After all, I'm just a woman. What could I possibly know about what was best for anyone? You're the boss and this is your family, so naturally everything must be done your way on your schedule. Heaven forbid you actually discuss it with me or consider my feelings. You speak and I must obey."

He realized the venom in her tone was more from being treated like a second class citizen by her father all her life than from her anger at him - although that anger was not insignificant. His stomach sank as he realized just how much he'd unintentionally hurt her. "Honey...."

"And now you're not even letting me do my job!"

"What? What are you talking about?"

"You asked Richie to come in for a song writing session after the holidays, but you didn't tell me. Normally I'd be asked to make his travel arrangements, but you didn't even tell me he was coming!" The tears started again. "I thought you were different Jon. I thought since your business was music and not a multinational corporation you could recognize my abilities and appreciate them! But today just proves that you're just like the rest of them!"

He needed to stop her before she totally went off the deep end. "Bri, stop!" Crossing the room, he took her in his arms. "The only thing today proves is that I made a mistake. I misjudged how far down that rabbit hole to the past your father lived. And how much growing up with his beliefs affected you." And obviously scarred you. Framing her face with his hands, he raised it until he could look into her eyes. "And I'm truly sorry about that. I should have realized. At the very least I should have talked to you more about it before inviting your family over. I wasn't trying to overrule you or act like I know best. I swear I wasn't! I was just......trying to bring the families - mine and yours - together. You know my family - parents, brothers, kids, all of them - love you. We're together. A couple. That means our families - and you and I - will all need to find a way to at least be civil. The sooner we start the sooner that will happen."

Brianna sniffed, drew in a ragged breath and frowned. "But...my father....the kids..."

Jon nodded and rubbed her back. "I know. I really fucked up on that one. I've never met anyone like him. I never dreamed he would be like that - especially with someone else's kids."

He urged her towards the bed and sat beside her, one arm holding her close. "You and I will have to protect them as much as we can and make sure they understand that we don't share his beliefs." Like someone should have done for you! "We can have as much or as little contact with them as you want - or think is right for the kids. You will have complete control over that."

"Promise?"

"I promise. The kids' welfare comes first. I will defer to your judgement when it comes to that and your family."

Brianna nodded.

"As for Richie......he's a big boy. He can look after his own travel arrangements. That's what his assistant is for, not mine. You spoiled him during the tour. But right now I figure you have enough on your plate looking after me and the kids. I wasn't trying to prevent you from doing your job." His lips twitched. "If anything I was being selfish. I want your focus on me and the kids."

She had to smile at that.  Expression sobering, she looked down at her hands in her lap and sighed. "I'm sorry I kind of lost it and accused you of..."

"Sssh sweetheart." He cut off her apology, pressing a kiss to her temple. "I don't blame you at all. In your shoes I would have done the same thing."

"Still, I shouldn't have done that. I had this grand intention of listening to your explanation and discussing it calmly." She snorted derisively. "That worked about as well as your surprise plan."

Jon chuckled and squeezed her. "We're quite the pair today. But we survived it, a little bruised, but both a little wiser with no permanent damage done." He ducked his head to catch her eye. "Didn't we?"

Brianna searched his eyes, and saw nothing but sincerity. While her mind - and her battered psyche - warned her to be cautious, her heart and her gut instincts told her to trust him, the risk was worth the rewards if she was right. And they could make it work. He wasn't the only one who made mistakes. She needed to give him the benefit of the doubt.

She nodded. "We're okay."

"Good." He leaned in to kiss her. "I think we've got something good going here. I don't want to lose you."

"Me either."

He nuzzled her neck. "The fire's going downstairs. Care for a glass of wine?"

"Mmmmm. Sounds wonderful."

Taking her hand, he stood and led her out of the room.

Stephanie and Jesse were still sitting in the living room. Seeing the adults enter holding hands, they exchange glances and smiled,

Brianna sat while Jon went to get the wine. "Steph, I want to talk to you about what my father said about your career ideas."

"It's okay," Stephanie assured her, "Dad already told me to ignore him and do whatever I decide I want to do."

Brianna smiled, relieved and elated that Jon had spoken up to reassure his daughter of his faith in her abilities. A mark in the plus column for him in her book. "Good. It's your life, you decide what you want to do with it."

Chapter 86

The next day, Brianna was upstairs in the bathroom with Romeo who had just awakened from his nap when they heard the gate buzzer. "Sounds like we've got company. I wonder who it is?"

Romeo shrugged. 

They were descending the stairs when Jon opened the front door to admit their visitors.

Brianna's eyes narrowed and her brows snapped together in a frown.

"Hi. I'm glad you could all make it." Jon greeted them. "Please, come in."

Edward stepped into the foyer and glanced around.

"Oh Jon, your home is lovely!" Sara gushed as she too glanced around.

"Thank you, but I can't take the credit for it. My wife chose the decor."

"Who dat?" Romeo asked. 

"That," Brianna answered grimly, watching her brothers and their families add to the crowd in the foyer, "is my family."

"Aunt Bri!" Danielle saw her first.

"Hi Dani." She used the shortened form of her niece's name just to aggravate her brother and father.

"And who is this little sweetheart?" Sara smiled at Romeo as she approached them.

"This is Romeo." Brianna kissed his cheek. "Romey. This is my mom Sara and this is Danielle. Can you say hi to them?"

"Hi." He murmured shyly, hiding his face in Brianna's neck. Then he noticed the plastic container in Sara's hand and his head popped up. "Yummies?"

Sara grinned at his hopeful inquiry. "For dessert."

"Hey Bri." Lisa greeted her sister-in-law, Rachel a step behind. "I have to say I was more than a little surprised when Sara said Jon called and invited the whole family over. I didn't think you were ready for that yet."

"I'm not."

Rachel, Lisa and Sara exchanged looks.

"You mean....you didn't know?" Rachel guessed.

Brianna shook her head. "Nope. No warning at all."

The other women all winced.

"I'm sure he meant well." Sara offered.

Brianna just grunted.

"He's not as smart as I thought he was." Lisa tsked. "What are you going to do?"

"Absolutely nothing. This is his party. He didn't ask for my input or agreement, so he can run the show himself." His betrayal cut deep, but right now her anger drowned out the pain. She knew from experience that would come later. "Let's go sit in the living room."

They'd almost reached the doorway when Jake came running in. He glanced at all the people, then made a beeline for Brianna. "Who are all dese people?"

"They're my family." Brianna explained, introducing them. When she started for the living room again, Jon reached out for her arm as she passed. She shook him off and continued on.

"Brianna." Edward's frown was matched by his tone of voice.

"Yes Father?"

"You're being rude."

"I'm sorry, did you need something? I was taking my boss' guests into the living room where it's more comfortable, then since apparently you're all staying for dinner, I need to go into the kitchen and see what I can find that's suitable to serve and that can be prepared at such short notice." Her smile was her professional one, but her eyes, when they met Jon's were glacial enough to freeze lava.

When she once again turned to leave, Richard and Michael shivered. 

"Brrr." Michael gave Jon a sympathetic look. "Got your work cut put for you there, man. She is pissed."

"That's one of the reasons women don't make good executives." Edward shook his head. "They're too sensitive and emotional."

Jon sighed. This surprise wasn't turning out like he'd thought.

After introducing Steph and Jesse, Brianna left Romeo with the other kids and escaped to the kitchen where she slammed a few cupboards under the pretext of looking for dinner ideas, to release some of her anger and frustration.

"Feel better?" Sara asked from the doorway.

"Not really. I'm going to stick my head in the freezer next. Maybe that'll help."

"I don't think he meant to...."

"Treat me like an employee rather than a partner?" Brianna clenched her hands and blinked her stinging eyes. "I thought he was different Mom. I thought he understood! I thought he recognized my abilities - my capabilities - and appreciated them! But he's just like the rest of them." She frowned into the fridge. "And to top it off, I have no idea what to make for dinner. There's no time to thaw anything. I don't suppose Father would go for spaghetti?"

"For a family dinner?" Sara's look said she should know better.

"Right." She sighed. "Well this family dinner is going to be nowhere near Father's standards."

"It'll be fine. I'll help you."

In the living room, the men sat together on one side of the room, the women on the other watching the kids play.

Edward glanced around the room, his approval evident. "Your wife didn't work outside the home did she? It shows."

"She ran her own dojo for awhile."

"But not after the children came I bet. It's obvious she was proud of her home and family."

Jon clenched his jaw and noticed Rachel and Lisa did the same, all of them thankful Brianna wasn't in the room to hear her father's comments.

Stephanie wasn't sure what was going on, but she felt the tension in the room and it didn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that it had something to do with why Brianna was upset.

From the moment Brianna set dinner on the table, she braced herself for her father's opinion - which he always felt compelled to express. Today was no different.

Swallowing, he pushed food around on his plate. "Not your best effort Brianna, but I guess it will do."

"Sorry Father, but since I didn't know you were coming until you walked in the door, it was the best I could do."

"That's no excuse. A good hostess is always prepared for company. If you're going to teach Stephanie how to cook, maybe you'd better get some of your mother's recipes."

Brianna forced down the food in her mouth, but didn't take anymore.

Stomach sinking, Jon began to realize what a huge mistake he'd made.

"So Stephanie, now that you're in high school, do you have any ideas on what you'd like to do after you graduate?" Sara changed the subject.

"I'm not sure yet. I kind of like journalism."

"Then I could finally get a decent story written about me." Jon commented, smiling at his daughter.

"But I really like the idea of running a clothing line."

"You want to design your own clothes?" Lisa asked.

Stephanie shook her head. "No. I like fashion, but I'm not good at designing. I'd like to run the business side so that the designer wouldn't have to worry about it."

"You really think that would be an appropriate career for you?" Edward questioned.

Brianna stiffened and glared at Jon.

"Maybe. Or maybe Brianna just makes running everything for Dad look so easy because she's so good at it." Stephanie answered.

Brianna winked at her.

Romeo hit his plate with his fork. "Yummiest now?" He directed his question to Sara.

Sara smiled and stood. "Yes. It's time for dessert."

The women all got up and helped clear the table. Jon started to rise to help, but Richard distracted him and he sat back down.

"So what's next with your music?"

"I performed last night at a fundraiser for a local family health centre and I'll probably join some friends at a show on New Year's Eve."

"Southside Johnny?" Michael guessed. At his brother and father's surprised looks, he shrugged. "He's a local legend on the Jersey shore. I've heard of him."

Jon smiled. "Yes. I've known him a long time."

"And what about your band?"

"My songwriting partner is coming out in January to see what we can come up with."

Entering the room in time to hear that, Brianna's brows rose and her gaze flew to Jon's.

"Are you planning another tour?" Richard asked.

Jon shrugged. "I'm not sure I want to leave the kids that long yet. Brianna suggested releasing an album but not touring it."

"What would be the point of that?"

"Income." Edward answered.

"More than that actually. Creative release would be the main reason to do it." He saw a flash in Brianna's eyes that could have been anger or pain. Either way, his hole was getting deeper.

"Sounds like you're going to be busy sis." Michael commented.

"Apparently." Her voice was subdued.

"Yummies!" Romeo chortled.

Brianna turned to him and laughed. "Did you get any in your mouth?"

Romeo nodded and grinned, his face covered in chocolate and sprinkles.

Edward frowned in disapproval.

Brianna ignored him.

When the Wilson family finally said their goodbye's and left, Brianna finished cleaning up, then took Jake and Romeo upstairs for their baths.

"Bri..." Jon stopped her as she was climbing the stairs. He needed to apologize, but he didn't know where to start.

But Brianna didn't want to hear it. She held up a hand and pinned him with a look, her pain obvious. "Don't talk to me right now."

Chapter 85

"Hi Carol, John, nice to see you." Brianna greeted Jon's parents when they arrived on the doorstep.

"Hi, Nice to see you too." Carol hugged her. "Ready for your first public appearance as his acknowledged girlfriend?"

Brianna's lips twisted into a wry smile. "Considering this crowd, they probably won't even notice.  One of the benefits of being his assistant." It was the Hope benefit concert and Jon was performing.

"Well, you look beautiful." Jon assured her, stepping up for his own hug.

"Thank you." She was dressed simply, but festively in a black skirt and green beaded sweater. She glanced at her watch and looked up the stairs. "Jon come on! You're going to be late!"

"Quit messing with your hair!" His father added with a wink at Brianna. "Your receding hairline isn't that noticeable."

Brianna hooted. "I'm so glad you were the one that said that. He'd kill anyone else."

"Ha ha." Jon scowled at his father as he descended the stairs. "You're funny."

He stood beside Brianna to greet his parents. In black pants and a red button down shirt they looked like a Christmas couple.

"Guys, we're going! Grandma and Grandpa are here." Brianna called to the kids as she put her arms in the coat Jon held for her.

"Bye! Have a good show! Say hi to Uncle Southside!" Came back from the teenagers.

"Bina! Bina!" Romeo came running into the foyer. Stopping in front of Brianna he held his arms up until she picked him up. "You go?"

"Daddy has a show to play tonight and I'm going with him. Grandma and Grandpa have come to stay with you."

He frowned. "You come back?"

"Yes, I'm coming back. When you wake up in the morning, I'll be here."

He thought about that for a minute. "Okay. Me can have pancakes for bekfast?"

"Sure you can." She promised. "You be good for Grandma and Grandpa okay?"

"Okay." He puckered his lips.

Brianna grinned, kissed him and handed him to his grandmother.

"And remember to ask Grandpa for help when you have to go potty." Jon reminded his son with a wicked grin.

"Okay Daddy."

The women rolled their eyes.

"Sweetness! Are you ever a sight for sore eyes!" John Lyons greeted Brianna with a hug when they arrived backstage at the Count Basie Theatre in Red Bank. "But did you have to bring the stick in the mud with you? He spoils all my fun."

"And I'm about to spoil some more. Let go of my girlfriend old man." Jon growled.

Conversation around them stopped as everyone stared, first at Jon, then at Brianna.

She rolled her eyes at his announcement, but was secretly pleased that he was staking his claim - and acknowledging hers.

Southside raised his brows, then heaved a heavy sigh. "Figures a beauty like you would pick a man who never learned to share."

Brianna met her chosen one's warm gaze and smiled. "Then I guess we are a good match. 'Cause I don't share either."

Jon nodded his understanding and winked at her, while Southside just sighed again. "No fun at all. Bobby! Let's play some music!"

Watching the show from the wings, Brianna realized how much she'd missed this: the music, watching Jon in his element, seeing the audience respond, the camaraderie both on stage and behind it, the upbeat mood. It had been too long - for her as well as him. 

When it was over, tired but still on an adrenaline high, Jon tossed back a drink and grabbed Brianna's hand. "Let's get out of here."

Since he'd obviously been enjoying himself, she was surprised he wanted to leave so early. "I thought you were having a good time?"

"I am."

"Then why are in such a hurry to leave?"

His eyes darkened and twinkled. "Because I have any early Christmas present for you that promises to provide us with an even better time."

Her smile was intimate and knowing. "And would this present be best used in the kitchen?"

He considered that. "It could be used there, but there's too many people in the house tonight. For now, it would be best used in the palace."

"Ah. My favourite room." She stepped closer and toyed with the pendant of his necklace that rested on the cushion of his chest hair, displayed by the open neck of his shirt.

"Get a room you two." Gary 'U.S.' Bonds suggested as he passed them, clapping a hand on Jon's shoulder and winking at Brianna.

"That's where we're heading." Jon assured him.

"If I can bring myself to let go of him long enough to get there." Brianna added with a grin.

Gary sighed. "I don't get it. Why do all the chicks go for him?"

"It's the hair!" Southside informed him.

Jon scowled,

Brianna grinned. When he turned his glare on her, she held up her hands defensively. "Don't glare at me. I didn't say it." But she couldn't resist running her fingers through the mane under discussion.

Jon heaved a long suffering sigh and swatted her ass before linking their fingers together again. "Brat. Let's go."

Back at the house, they thanked his parents and tried not to be obvious about rushing them out the door. By the look and smirks John and Carol exchanged Brianna didn't think they were successful.

As soon as the door closed, Brianna started up the stairs to check on the kids. Jon passed her in the hallway. "I'll grab the monitor, meet me in the Palace in five minutes."

After a quick peek in at the kids, Brianna rushed into her room to change. She didn't take the time to wiggle into any fancy, seductive lingerie. She just pulled on her nightgown and robe and hurried out to meet her lover. 

As fast as she was, Jon beat her there. He was stripped down to just his black pants and was turning back the blankets on the bed when she walked into the room.

Her brows rose. "In a hurry?"

One hand snaked out to grasp the tie of her robe and pulled her up against him. "Just to get my hands on you." Opening her robe, he pushed it over her shoulders until it dropped to the floor. His eyes drifted over her nightgown - this one black silk and lace that made her skin glow like the finest pearls. While he appreciated the packaging, he was more interested in what was underneath it.

Two seconds later, the gown joined her robe on the floor. "That's better." His eyes roamed again. "Much better. God you're beautiful."

"Thank you, but I think fair is fair." Gripping his waistband, she tugged the button open. "Take off your pants."

"Yes ma'am." His cock was in full agreement with her order. With a couple shoves and a shimmy, his pants fell to the floor and he kicked them aside.

Her lips twitched. "Interesting dance moves."

His smile was slow and knowing. "I have better ones."

"Mmmm." She stepped closer, her arms sliding around his neck. "Show me."

"Yes ma'am." His lips captured hers as his arms closed around her holding her tight against him. His body rubbed hers.

"Mmmmm." Brianna moaned softly. Before she lost her wits completely, she broke the kiss, delicately scraping her teeth over his bottom lip. "I seem to recall some mention of a present?"

Jon's chuckle was low and husky and sent tingles of anticipation running down her spine. "Patience Golden Eyes." He lifted her and laid her on the bed, settling on top of her, his weight braced on his elbows. "I want to enjoy you for awhile first."

Hands and mouth roamed her body, pausing here and there over particularly delectable spots - like the lush mounds of her breasts with their rapidly stiffening nipples. When she tried to caress him in return, he knocked her hands aside until she finally gave up and let him have his way. Closing her eyes, she focused on the pleasure he was so intent on lavishing on her body.

By the time he reached her hips, her body was practically vibrating with desire. At his touch her legs parted, eager for whatever  delicious torment he decided to inflict on her.

The touch of his lips and tongue were familiar, but still tantalizing. Along the inside of her thighs, up one side of her drenched slit and down the other, a dip inside her already aching core, a flick of her clit. Over and over, around and around until she was panting and her hips were lifting towards him, silently begging for more.

When he rose up, she thought he was going to give her what she was rapidly becoming desperate for. But all he did was reach out for something, then settled back with his shoulder between her widespread thighs. Draping her legs over his shoulders, he reached around to hold open her swollen folds.

Brianna's hands fisted in the sheets and her stomach muscles clenched in anticipation of his oral assault. But none of her experience prepared her for what happened next. Instead of the wet heat of his tongue when he bent his head, she felt something.....different, something...firm, yet giving. She heard the soft hum a split second before she felt the vibration against her clit.

Her back arched off the bed. "Holy shit! What the hell....?"

Jon raised his head and grinned, revealing the appliance attached to his tongue.

"A tongue vibrator?"

He nodded and shifted, holding her hips more firmly.

Brianna collapsed back onto the bed. "You're going to kill me."

His chuckle was drowned out by the hum of the toy - and the roaring of the blood in her ears - as he went back to his feast. The intensified stimulation was more than she could withstand and within minutes shudders of pleasure wracked her body, her back arching off the bed again. "Jon!"

And he wasn't finished. Up and down, in and out and around, over and over, he teased and tortured her throbbing flesh. She lost track of how many orgasms he'd brought her - or maybe it was just one long one, she wasn't sure. By the time he stopped, her cries had faded to breathless whimpers, and her body was as limp as a ragdoll.

Jon had held out as long as he could, the sight and sounds of Brianna totally lost in passion was too delectable to cut short. But his cock finally warned him it had reached the end of its patience. It was his turn now. Moving up, he slid gently inside her, savouring the feel of her flesh, still rippling from her last orgasm, engulfing him.

Brianna groaned, not sure she could take any more, even as her body stretched, welcoming his invasion. When his mouth captured hers and his tongue slipped between her lips, she was thankful he'd removed the vibrator. She'd had more than enough stimulation for a while.

Jon kept his movements slow and easy, allowing her a few minutes to recover. But only a few. When she sighed and squeezed him briefly his control snapped. Lifting her legs onto his shoulders, he gripped her hips and thrust harder, deeper, his speed and force increasing until he was pounding into her.

Brianna couldn't speak, couldn't cry out, couldn't even groan. All she could do was hold on and try to breath through the storm he was creating.

Knowing he might be hurting her, but unable to stop, Jon plumbed her depths, grinding his pelvis against her clit with every downstroke. He could feel his orgasm building rapidly in his lower back and knew blessed relief was close at hand. Not wanting to experience it alone, he shifted until he could reach her breasts. He replaced the vibrator on his tongue and took a nipple in his mouth.

Brianna screamed - or tried to, her back arching as yet another orgasm exploded through her body.

When her channel viced around him, Jon gave a throttled shout as he erupted in long jets. He held still until he was empty, totally drained.

It was several minutes before he could gather enough strength to move off of her and collapse on the bed bedside her. "Merry Christmas."

"Thank you." She panted. "I think. Holy shit!"

He chuckled. "Wait until you see what I got you for Valentine's Day."

Brianna groaned. "I hope I've recovered by then." She rolled over to cuddle up against him, her hand coming to rest on his chest to toy with his thick fur and sighed. "I wish I could just stay here tonight. It takes more energy than I've got at the moment to make the trip back to the house."

His hand stroked her arm. "So stay here. I thought that was the plan anyway."

She shook her head. "Romeo comes into my room when he gets up in the morning. I need to be there."

It was Jon's turn to sigh. "I wish I could I could have you all to myself for a few days."

"Mmmm." Brianna agreed. "That would be nice."

Jon was determined to find a way to make it happen....after he got some sleep.....and they got through tomorrow. He hoped she liked that surprise as much as she liked this one.

Chapter 84

Two weeks later, she was once again heading for Red Bank - this time with a working heater. She was taking the kids Christmas shopping.

Driving through the gates, she parked and entered the house. "Who's ready to go shopping?"

The foyer quickly filled with people scrambling for coats and boots.

"Hi honey." Jon greeted her with a kiss, leaned in and lowered his voice. "I'm going to get the tree while you're gone. We can decorate it tonight."

She nodded. "I guess pizza would be the best plan for dinner then."

Jake heard her. "Pizza for dinner? Yay!"

Romeo was struggling with his boots. "Daddy hep!'

"Oh hey little man, you're going to stay with Daddy today." Jon took his boots and set them aside.

"No!" Romeo insisted, his bottom lip extending into a pout. "Me go wif Bina!" He ran over and threw his arms around Brianna's legs, looking up at her with tear filled dark eyes. "Pease I go wif you?"

Brianna looked at Jon, who shrugged, leaving the decision up to her. "Well, okay, but you'd better go pee first."

"Kay!" He started for the bathroom, then stopped and waved to his father. "Daddy hep!"

Jon sent a pleading glance to Brianna, but she just smiled and gestured for him to go with his son. He sighed. "Coming."

When they returned, Brianna helped Romeo with his coat and boots. Jon handed her his keys. "Take the Navigator. It's already got the boys' car seats in it and it'll give you more room for packages."

"Okay, thanks."

Jon opened the door and waved them off. "Have fun, get me something good."

When they were gone, he pulled out his phone. "Lemma! Get your ass over here. It's tree day."

When David arrived  he noted Brianna's car parked in her usual spot. He stepped into the quiet house and glanced around. "Where's your girlfriend and the munchkins?"

"Shopping." Jon answered.

"Ah. She took your car?"

"Yeah. It had the boys' car seats in it. It was easier than moving them. Plus my car has more room than hers."

"Uh huh. But now how are you going to get the tree home? Use hers?"

"That's where you come in, my friend." Jon clapped him on the back.

"I should have known. Slave labour."

At the tree lot, Jon noticed David glancing around. "What's the matter, think you're going to burst into flames being around all these Christmas trees?"

"It's not exactly...."

"Kosher?" Jon grinned.

"Ha ha. Asshole. Hurry up and pick out a damn tree." David grumbled. "I don't know how Brianna puts up with you and your sense of humour."

Jon shrugged. "She gets me."

"No accounting for taste I guess." They moved to the next row. "How are things going with her anyway? Have you met her family yet?"

"One  brother and his wife.....and her parents."

Something in his voice alerted David's antennae. "How did that go?"

Jon grimaced. "Her mother's fine, a little quiet. Her father's a real piece of work though. The man's still living in the fifties." He gave David a quick rundown of Edward's attitude and opinions.

"Wow. Poor Bri. That can't be easy for a woman as smart and talented as she is to live with."

"Mmmmhmm." Jon eyed a tree that looked promising.

"So.....you must be his worst nightmare. A rock and roll musician that makes too much money for him to disregard completely. Way to go Bri!"

Jon's gaze snapped to his friend's face. "What do you mean?"

David shrugged. "She found the perfect man to fight back with."

Jon frowned.

"Have the kids met them?"

"Not yet. I've been tossing around the idea of inviting the whole family out before Christmas so everyone can get to know each other."

"What does Brianna think of that idea?"

"I haven't mentioned it to her. I was thinking of making it a surprise."

David winced. "I don't think that would be such a good idea."

"Why not?"

"She's been so reluctant for even you to meet them, I'm thinking she'd want to be very careful about introducing the kids."

 "Mmmm." He caught the eye of a lot attendant and pointed to the tree in front of him. "I'll take this one."

"I'll tie it up for you right away sir."

By the time the shoppers returned home, Brianna was ready to sit down and rest for awhile. Jake and Romeo both fell asleep on the drive home.

Parking in front of the door, Brianna nodded at the car parked next to hers. "Lemma?"

"Yep." Jesse answered. "It's tree day."

"Grab some bags and ask your dad to come get Jake will you please?" Brianna directed the teenagers as she reached into the back to undo Romeo's seat.

"Hey Beautiful. Successful shopping trip?" David glanced into the cargo area when he opened the back door next to Jake's seat. "Holy shit! I'd say it was."

She shrugged. "Big families mean lots of gifts. Where's Jon?"

"Getting the tree decorations out of storage." He caught her eye. "Is there a problem?"

She hesitated, glancing at the door to the house. "Not a problem. Jesse's having a rough day."

"Missing his mom?"

She nodded. "I think so."

"Have you talked to him?"

"Not yet. It just started a couple hours ago. I'm waiting to see how bad it gets....and if he'll open up to Jon first."

David nodded. "I bow to your wisdom. You've done such a great job with them, you obviously know what you're doing."

"I hope so." She lifted Romeo into her arms. "Come on little man, let's get you to bed."

Picking up Jake, David followed her into the house and upstairs.

After putting the boys down, they returned downstairs.

"I don't care! Leave me alone!" Jesse stomped into the foyer and out the front door, almost knocking over his sister in the process.

"Hey! Watch it!"

"Shut up!"

Jon  had followed his son and now stood in the doorway of the living room. 

Brianna caught his eye and raise a brow.

"Fuck if I know. I asked him where he thought we should put the tree and he blew. Was he like that all day with you?"

She shook her head. "No, only the last couple hours."

He scowled. "Well, he'd better lose the attitude....and fast!"

Brianna had reached the bottom of the stairs when Jesse stormed back in and dumped the packages he was carrying on the floor.

"Jess. Will you help me carry this stuff upstairs please?"

"Do it yourself, I'm not your slave!"

"Jesse!" His father scolded. "You don't talk to Bri like that!"

"Why not? She's not my mother!"

Stephanie gasped. "Jesse!"

Brianna stepped in before Jon old explode - and by the look on his face it wasn't a second too soon. "Jesse come with me."

"No. Where? Why?"

"You'll see. Get in my car." She glanced at Stephanie. "You should come too."

Stephanie nodded and started for the door. Brianna grabbed her keys and followed. Jesse still stood by the stairs, undecided.

"Jess," Brianna spoke softly. "Trust me. Please?"

Blowing out an aggravated breath, Jesse gave in and followed his sister.

"We'll be back soon." Brianna assured the men.

They were gone before Jon even thought to ask where they were going.

As they got closer to their destination, Stephanie figured out where they were going. She turned to Brianna, her own expression now unsure. "Why there?"

"I have something to do....and I'm hoping a visit will help."

When they turned into the cemetery grounds, Jesse sat up straighter in his seat. He felt sad and angry all at the same time.

Brianna parked near Dorothea's grave, got out of the car and opened the trunk. "Will you help me with this please?"

Stephanie got out and took the bag she was handed.

Jesse got out slowly, but hung back  he gaze constantly shooting to his mother's tombstone. He took the bag Brianna handed him, took two steps and threw it on the ground. "No! I don't want to be here! Take me home! What's the point? She's GONE!"

"Jesse, stop being such an asshole! YOU'RE NOT THE ONLY ONE WHO MISSES HER!" Stephanie screamed at her brother. "And it's not Bri's fault!"

For her part, Brianna stayed silent and went about her errand. Picking up another bag out of the trunk, she walked up to the grave, knelt and cleaned snow off the stone. "Hi Dot. I brought company with me this time."She pulled out a swag of garland and laid it across the top of the stone. 

"You've been here before?" Stephanie asked.

"Uh huh. I come here when I'm trying to figure how to help you guys or deal with your dad or if I just need to think. It's quiet and talking to your mother helps me."

"Really?" Stephanie opened her bag and found lights inside. She pulled them out and helped Brianna weave them around the garland and the stone. "There's no outlet here. How will they work?"

"They're solar lights. They'll absorb the sunlight during the day and light up at night."

"Cool." Stephanie looked around, but didn't see any other decorated graves. "What made you think to do this?"

"Well, it was your mom's favourite holiday, and I thought she would appreciate it." She got up and went back to the car for a  Poinsettia and the bag Jesse dropped, ignoring the sullen boy for the moment. Setting the plant to one side of the engraved words, she set out little ornaments along the front ledge of the stone. "This helps me when I'm really missing her. It might help you, it might not. Your comfort spot maybe be someplace in the house or on the grounds or maybe it's somewhere else. You just need to find where it is, and then when your feelings get overwhelming, you know where to go to find comfort."

"Have you ever brought the squirts here?"

"Not yet. They're too little. When they're older I will."

"Do you think Dad comes here?"

"Probably, but he may have another spot that was special to the two of them that he goes to."

During the girls' conversation, Jesse had wandered closer. After a few minutes, he reached down to pick up the small angel Brianna had brought and set it on top of the stone. Brianna handed him a twist tie to attach it to the garland so it wouldn't fall off.

The three of them stood together surveying their handiwork, each lost in their own thoughts.

When Jesse sighed, Brianna set her hand on his shoulder. "Jesse, I know I'm not your mother. I will never try to be. I just want to be here for you when you need someone. And I promise I will never let you forget her. Okay?"

He nodded and sighed again. "Okay." He kicked at a clump of icy snow. "I'm......sorry....about before.....what I said."

She squeezed his shoulder. "It's okay, I understand." She gave them another few minutes before suggesting they head home.

As they walked to the car, Stephanie frowned. "Bri.....can we come here again....like Christmas?"

"You can come anytime you want to. Let me know and I'll make sure you get here."  Brianna promised.

"Thanks."

When they got back to the house, Jon frowned at his oldest son and opened his mouth.  Brianna elbowed him before he could speak. "It's dealt with. Let it go."

Jon grunted, but conceded to her wishes.

With David doing his best to lighten the mood, they ate pizza while they finished decorating the tree. Then they sat around reminiscing about Christmas' past.

At bedtime even the teenagers kissed the adults goodnight, Jesse giving Brianna and extra hard hug. "Thanks."

"Anytime." She blinked back tears.

Exchanging glances with David, Jon refilled their glasses and pinned Brianna with his cobalt stare. "Now will you tell me what the hell happened today? Where did you take them?"

"The cemetery. Jesse needed to talk to his mother."

"Have you been there before? Since the funeral I mean." Now he knew who had been looking after the plants and flowers he'd taken.

"A few times." She admitted. "Christmas is such a family holiday and of course it was her favourite, so it's harder on the kids."

"He wasn't this bad last year."

"I think last year they were still in shock at Dot's passing. It didn't really sink in." She yawned and drained her glass. "It's been a long day. I'm beat. I'm going up to bed. Tree looks great guys." She leaned over to kiss Jon. "Nite Babe. Nite David. There's a room ready and available for you if you want to stay over."

"Thanks Beautiful. Sleep well."

When she had disappeared, David shook his head in wonder. "Dot certainly knew what she was doing when she picked her."

"Mmhmmm." Jon agreed.

Chapter 83

"I'd better go check the turkey." Sara started to stand from the chair she was sitting in.

"Relax Mom, I'll go." Brianna grabbed the excuse to escape from the living room full of family gathered for Thanksgiving. After checking the turkey, she sat down at the kitchen table and wondered how long she could hide out.

"You can't hide out in here forever you know." Richard handed her a glass of wine and sat down on the other side of the table. 

"I can try." Brianna responded dryly.

"Okay, tell your big brother what's bothering you."

"Nothing you can fix."

"Are you sure? I'm pretty good at fixing things."

"Can you change Father's attitude about what my place is and what type of man is acceptable for me to be involved with?"

Richard snorted. "I'm good, but I'm not a miracle worker."

She raised her glass. "There you go."

"There you are." Michael observed as he and Lisa entered the kitchen and sat down. "Where's the rockstar?"

"At home with his family."

"I thought you might have brought him with you."

Brianna snorted. "I'm lucky he didn't cut and run after we had dinner with Mr. Equality in there."

"Bad?" Richard winced.

Brianna shrugged. "The usual."

"I don't get what he'd have against Jon. He must know how much money the guy makes." Lisa frowned.

"He knows." Richard assured her. "I did the background check and sent Father the report. It's not about money, or rather not just about money."

"He could have enough money to make Warren Buffet look like a pauper and it wouldn't matter. He still wouldn't be an acceptable mate for Bri."  Michael added.

"Why not? What's he got against him?"

"It's because he's a musician." Rachel explained as she joined them. "It's not a respectable enough occupation."

Richard grimaced, but didn't dispute his wife's assessment.

Lisa was stunned. "You're joking." She looked at Brianna who shook her head. "Well that's just...... Does he treat you right? Take care of you? Include you in all aspects of his life? Is he considerate of your feelings?"

"Yes." Brianna responded.

Rachel grabbed the bag of potatoes and brought them to the table, handing her sisters-in-law paring knives. While they peeled, she continued the questioning. "Do you enjoy his company? His kids? Do you miss him when you're not with him?"

"Yes."

"Are you in love with him?" Lisa asked.

They all waited for the answer Brianna didn't have. "I think I could be in a very short time."

"You met him?" Richard asked his brother.

"Yes, at a charity function."

"And?"

Michael shrugged. "He seemed like a decent enough guy. Pleasant enough to talk to. Really keen on finding new ways to help the less fortunate."

Lisa eyed Brianna carefully. "Does he love you?"

"I don't know. He cares about me, but I don't know if it's love." Liar! Her subconscious screamed.

"Then why are you here?" Rachel pressed. 

Brianna glanced towards the living room.

"Bri....I hope you don't take offence to what I'm about to say. I love you and just want you to be happy." Rachel took a deep breath. "You're a grown woman, not a child. It's time to live your life for you. Do what makes you happy and quit trying to please your father. You married the type of man he decreed was best for you and look how that turned out." She reached out to lay her hand on Brianna's. "If he makes you happy, go for it. Life's too short to let opportunities pass you by."

Brianna sighed. "I appreciate what you're saying, but it's not quite that easy - and not just because of Father."

"The deceased wife?" Lisa guessed.

"Sort of. I don't know how I will ever know if his feelings are real or if he chose me because I'm handy and......comfortable. Or because it's what his wife wanted." At her siblings looks, she explained. "She made it very clear that she wanted him to move on and that she thought I was a good choice for him to do that with." She would keep the details to herself.

"That is a tough one." Lisa agreed.

"And you won't find the answer here." Rachel added.

They were all seated around the large dining room table trying to find the energy to move after gorging themselves on turkey, mashed potatoes and cranberries, when Kelly turned to her aunt. "Aunt Bri, are you staying here for the weekend?"

"Of course she is." Edward answered his granddaughter.

Suddenly, Brianna realized she couldn't do it. Rachel was right. This wasn't where she wanted to be. "Actually, no, I can't. I need to get back. I've got a lot of work to do."

Edward frowned. "Brianna..."

"It's for work Father." Brianna interrupted what was sure to be a lecture with the one excuse he wouldn't argue with. "Jon's got a couple performances coming up in the next couple weeks and we're working on some Christmas programs for his Foundation."

Edward just grunted.

Michael eyed his sister. "We're going back too. We can give you a lift. I brought the company jet."

"Thanks."

Sara walked them out to the car. Richard was driving them to the airfield. She pressed a plastic container into Brianna's hands. 

"Leftovers?"

"Treats for the kids. Say hi to Jon." Sara hugged her daughter. "Do what makes you happy."

"Thanks, Mom."

Back in New York, Brianna packed a bag, then crawled into bed for a few hours sleep. When she awoke, she dressed in jeans and sweatshirt, grabbed her bag and headed down to the garage to get her car. 

Halfway through the Battery Tunnel, the heater made a rattling noise, then conked out.

"Great. It's only thirty below, what do I need heat for?" She debated turning around, but finding an open garage or an alternative form of transportation would be difficult and time consuming. Time she didn't want to waste.

So she kept going.

By the time she pulled through the gates, her hands and feet were pretty much numb. Fumbling with her purse, bag and the door handle, she stumbled into the foyer.

"Hey sugar. I didn't expect to see you this weekend. I thought you were staying at your parents in Chicago." Jon watched her struggle to get her gloves off and frowned. "Honey? What's wrong?"

"It's f..f...f...fricken cold out there!"

He helped her off with her coat and noticed her trembling. He took her hand to help her balance while she removed her boots and was shocked. "You're freezing!"

"C.....car h...heater b.....b...broke."

"When did it quit?"

"T...tunnel."

"So you drove all the way here without heat? Are you crazy?" He wrapped his arms around her and rubbed her back.

She clung to his warmth. "N..n..needed t..to b...be h...here.  M...m..missed y..you g..guys."

Jon smiled and kissed her temple. "We missed you too."

"Bri? Are you okay?" Stephanie came out to greet her.

"Mmmmmhmmm."

"She drove here with no heat in her car." Jon explained. "She's frozen."

"Brr."Stephanie shivered. "Do you want coffee or tea?"

"T..tea p..please S.....Steph."

"I'm on it." And she disappeared into the kitchen.

"Bianna!" Jake ran over to hug her.

"Hi B....buddy."

"What's wrong wif you?"

"She's really cold." His father repeated. "Come into the living room. The fire's on." With an arm around her, Jon turned Brianna towards the doorway.

"I get a blanket!" Jake announced and ran ahead of them.

Brianna sat on the couch and accepted the blanket Jake brought her. "Th..thanks buddy."

When Jon sat beside her, she turned to sit facing him, lifted her feet onto the couch and burrowed her toes under his leg. He could feel their coldness even through his jeans.

"Jesus! Your feet are like ice cubes!" Lifting her feet onto his lap, he pulled off her socks, pulled the blanket over them, and rubbed them with his hands to try and warm them. "You should probably get out of those cold clothes too. Jesse, run upstairs and grab a pair of my sweats and a sweatshirt for Bri please."

"Sure."

When he returned a few minutes later, Brianna took the clothes and managed to change without removing the blanket - or exposing anything that would shock the kids - although Jon had to reach under and help with the button on her jeans since her fingers were still not up to that kind of dexterity yet.

Stephanie brought in the tea and Brianna wrapped her hands around the mug, sipped and sighed. "Thanks guys. You really didn't have to go to all the trouble, but I appreciate it."

Stephanie shrugged. "You've done so much for us, it's our turn to help you."

"Feel better?" Jon asked.

She nodded. "Starting to thaw out." She glanced around. "Where's Romeo?"

"Napping. Where are the keys to your car?"

"I left them on the table in the foyer."

"I'm going to go have a look at the heater." He stood and tucked the blanket in around her feet.

Fifteen minutes later, he returned, sat down and picked up the phone. "Nate? Hi, it's Jon. How are you? Good. Listen, my girflfriend's car heater concked out. Looks like it's the coil. Yeah. Thanks. I'll bring it over on Monday. Right. Bye."

"You didn't have to do that." Brianna stated quietly.

"Of course I did. It's my job. You look after dinner, I look after the vehicles."

She laughed.

Half an hour later, Brianna finally felt she'd reached room temperature and thought about getting up.

"Bina!"

She turned to greet the toddler, but her words stuck in her throat when she got a look at him. She choked and burst out laughing.

"What the..." Stephanie stared at her brother.

"Romey, what have you been into?" Jon asked.

"Yummies!" He replied, his grin - and most of his face - covered in chocolate and sprinkles.

"Do you like my mom's treats?" Brianna managed to get out.

Romeo nodded. "Dey good!"

At Jon's raised brow, Brianna explained. "My mom sent some squares."

"Romeo, were you looking through Bri's bag?" Jon frowned at his son. "That's not yours. You shouldn't be going through other people's stuff."

Frowning at his father's reprimand, Romeo's bottom lip came out and started to quiver.

Wanting to ward off the tears, Brianna stood up and her hand. "Come on little man, let's get you cleaned up."

"I hope he saved us some." Jesse commented.

After the little ones went to bed and the teenagers went to their rooms, the adults settled into their favourite evening pastime, curled up together on the couch in front of the fire with a glass of wine.

"Okay Golden Eyes tell me what happened in Chicago that sent you running back here in frigid temperatures with no heater."

"Nothing happened." She insisted. "I just....." She sighed. "I just realized that the holidays are meant to be with the people you care about and as much as I love my family, that wasn't where I wanted to be." She turned her head to look at him, lifting one hand to cup his cheek. "This is."

Jon smiled and bent his head to kiss her. "That makes two of us."