Saturday, July 25, 2015

Chapter 125


The ringing of the house phone startled Brianna from her concentration on the proposal she was preparing for Jon and the Foundation on lunch programs for the local public schools. "Hello?"

"Mrs. Bongiovi?"

"Yes?"

"Hi. This is Judy Baker calling from the school."

Brianna frowned. "Hi. Is something wrong with Jake?"

"I'm afraid so. Nothing serious. I think he's caught the flu that's going around. He's warm and he just threw up."

"Poor kid. I'm on my way. Thanks for calling."

"He's in the nurse's room laying down. Just go to the office when you get here."

"Okay. Thanks again." Hanging up, Brianna stood and looked at Romeo who was playing with some toys on the floor in front of her desk. "Come on Little Man. Jake's sick and we have to go get him."

"Okay." He rose and followed her, content to go along with what she wanted....until he saw the winter coat she held out for him. "No!"

"Come on Romeo, we have to go get Jake."

"No coat!"

"You have to wear a coat. It's cold outside." November had been fairly mild, but December seemed to be trying to make up for it. Two feet of snow had been dumped on the area a couple days earlier and the temperature had dropped a good ten degrees.

But Romeo wanted no part of it. "No no no no no!" He shook his head vigorously as he backed away from her.

Mary, one of the cleaning staff who had occasionally helped with the kids appeared at the top of the stairs. "I'll keep an eye on him if you want to leave him here."

Brianna looked at Romeo. "Do you want to stay home with Mary or come with me?"

He considered for a moment. "Stay wif Mawy."

"Okay. I'll be back soon." Pulling on her coat and boots, she grabbed her purse and keys and rushed out to her car.


At the school, Brianna found a pale Jake huddled on the cot in the nurse's room. "Hey buddy." She smoothed his hair off his forehead and frowned at the warmth of his skin.

"I'm sick."

"I know. Do you want to go home?"

He nodded.

"Okay. Can you sit up for me?"

He nodded again and sat up. Brianna reached over to a nearby chair where someone had set his coat, boots and lunch box. She got him dressed and straightened. "Ready to go?"

Jake nodded yet again and held up his arms, obviously wanting to be carried. Brianna obliged, bending to lift him into her arms. 

The nurse handed her his lunch box. "Feel better Jake."



Brianna got Jake home and settled into bed with some Tylenol - and a bucket. Returning downstairs, she went into the kitchen to start making a list of groceries and other supplies they needed to cope with sickness in the house.

That's where Mary found her. "Is there anything else you want me to do today?"

Brianna glanced at the clock. "Can you stay until I pick up the other two?"

"Sure. No problem."


List in hand, Brianna set out again. The wind had picked up considerably in the short time she'd been inside and the sky had taken  on an ominous cast. It looked like more snow was on the way. I hope it holds off until I get home.

Pulling up in front of the school, she was surprised to see Stephanie and Jesse both ready and waiting. In fact, she'd barely come to a complete stop before they were reaching for the door handles. "Hey guys. You're sure in a hurry today. What's going....on? Uh oh." She'd turned to look at them as she spoke and had her answer as soon as she saw Jesse's pale face. "Are you alright Jess?"

He shook his head. "I feel like sh...crap."

Brianna grimaced sympathetically. "Jake came home early with the flu. Looks like you've got it too. Can you hold on long enough for me to make a quick stop at the grocery store? By the looks of the sky we're in for more snow and we need a few supplies."

Jesse nodded. "If I have to I'll puke in the parking lot."

"Nice Jess." Stephanie wrinkled her nose.

He just shrugged and leaned his head against the window.

At the grocery store Brianna parked and shut off the car. "I'll be quick."

"I'll come with you." Stephanie offered. "If we split up the list we'll be twice as fast."

Brianna looked from Jesse's face to the darkening sky. "Good idea. Thanks."

They were in and out in record time and made it home just as the first flakes were starting to fall.

"Mary, it's starting to snow." Brianna warned as she set down the bags she was carrying. "You'd better get going unless you want to stay here."

Mary rushed into the foyer to grab her coat and boots. She glanced at Jesse's face, frowned and looked at Brianna. "Another patient?"

"Looks like it."

"Do you want me to stay?"

Brianna shook her head. "No, that's okay. I've got it."


A couple hours later, she wondered if her confidence had been a bit premature. After getting Jesse settled into bed with Tylenol and a bucket, she returned downstairs and debated options for dinner that would soothe a queasy stomach. 

"Bina hep!"

"What's the matter Little Man? You getting hungry?"

He shook his head. "My tummy hurts."

Uh oh. She walked over to crouch down feel his forehead. "Does your head hurt?"

"Bri, where's the...."

What ever Stephanie was going to ask for was cut off and forgotten as Romeo made a choking sound, then threw up....on Brianna.

"Ew, gross!" Stephanie grimaced.

"Grab some paper towels please Steph."

"I sowy!"

"It's okay Little Man. You couldn't help it." Three down.



Cleaned up, Romeo in bed, Brianna was once again in the kitchen, this time with a clipboard and sheets of paper.

"What are you doing?" Stephanie sat on the stool beside her.

"Making a chart to keep track of when they've had Tylenol so that I don't over dose them. With so many sick this is the easiest way to keep track." She eyed the teenager. "How are you feeling?"

Stephanie shrugged. "I've got a bit of a headache, but otherwise I'm fine." She stood and walked over to the window. "When does Dad get home?"

"Day after tomorrow. They've got a show tonight...or last night, I've lost track of the time difference, then they're coming home." The thought crossed her mind that he hadn't called today like he usually did, but she pushed it aside. She had enough to worry about right now.

"Hope the snow stops in time."

"Me too."



A couple hours later, Brianna stepped out of Jesse's room to empty his pail and met Stephanie coming out of the bathroom. Her pale face and reddened eyes said it all.

"You too?"

Stephanie nodded and headed for her bedroom.

Sighing, Brianna cleaned the pail she was carrying, put it back in Jesse's room, then went in search of another one for Steph.




It wasn't until almost midnight as she wrote the latest Tylenol doses on her chart that she realized Jon still hadn't called. Amanda hadn't contacted her either, but she couldn't help but feel something was wrong. 

Frowning, she went into her office and booted up her computer. A quick internet search provided videos of interviews done the day before and clips from the show. Uh oh. The interviews showed a very impatient Jon fidgeting in his chair, checking his watch constantly while Richie answered the majority of the questions. Wonder what's got his panties in a twist?

Before she could investigate further, a cry from upstairs had her rushing up to Romeo's room. His bucket was empty, but it very quickly became apparent that while one end had paused in its spewing, the other end had started.

"I sowy! I sowy!" Romeo cried.

"Shhhh Little Man, it's okay. You can't help it." She reassured him as she set about getting him and his bed cleaned up.

Then it was time for laundry and the next round of bed checks and Tylenol. She'd just sat down when her phone rang. "Hi honey."

"Hi. You've got to talk to Amanda."

Brianna sighed, not sure she had the energy to deal with anything more. "What's wrong?"

"She's fucking up left, right, and centre." Jon growled. "My ginseng's alway late, she's mixing up interviews, switching them around without telling me so I don't know who I'm talking to, my food's either cold or too spicy, and yesterday I asked for lozenges and she brings me COUGH DROPS! It's a train wreck! You need to fix it."

"I can't fix it from here." Brianna sighed, too tired to deal with him in diva mode. "Did she really not tell you about the interview switch or did you not pay attention or check your schedule before you walked in?" She'd been there, dealt with that. "As for the rest....it's her first tour Jon, and she's never worked with a musician before. She's not familiar with how it works and what your specific preferences are."

"You picked it up right away."

Her lips twitched. "That's 'cause I'm good."

"I have a whole new appreciation of your skills Golden Eyes." He admitted.

"I'm glad to hear that. You just need to be patient and give her time to find her balance."

"I don't have time for that! You were supposed to train her!"

Her own patience snapped. "I can't train her from thousands of miles away! You're a big boy Jon, open your mouth and tell her what you need - and don't yell it at her. Or fire her and get someone else."

"You need to..."

"You'll have to deal with it. I don't have time for this Jon. I have four kids sick with the flu. I'm up to my elbows in vomit and shit. I don't have any time for yours. I'll see you when you get home." Disconnecting, she tossed the phone onto the couch beside her.


Jon blew out a breath, cursed and tossed his phone aside.

"Problem?"  Richie asked from the doorway.

"The kids are all down with the flu."

"Hmmm. Bet they're glad we left Sunshine at home."

Jon just grunted.

"Glad we're going home tomorrow." David rubbed his throat as he joined them. "My throat is killing me."

"Well, keep it to yourself." Jon instructed. "I've got enough to deal with." He'd been ignoring the tickling in his own throat for two days.

Richie raised a brow at his front man's grouchy tone. "Missing your wife already? Or just horny?"

Jon grunted.

"How are you going to make it through the rest of the tour?"

Jon was wondering the same thing himself.


Saturday, July 18, 2015

Chapter 124

The next morning Jon was once again at his desk. Turning on his computer, he pulled up his latest updated schedule and scowled. "Bri!" God dammit! Standing, he strode from the room. "Brianna!"

Uh oh. Full name. Not good. Brianna lifted her gaze from the invitation she was reading as he stomped into her office. "What's wrong?"

"Have you seen my latest schedule for Japan?"

"I haven't looked at it since we got home. What's the problem?"

"Look at it."

Turning to her computer, she pulled up his schedule and frowned. "I'll fix it."

His jaw twitched as he fought to bite back the words he really wanted to say. He settled for a grunt. "And talk to Amanda."

Brianna waited until he'd returned to his own office before raising her middle finger in his direction. This was where being married to your boss got tricky. As an employee, she expected to get reprimanded for screw ups, but as his wife she didn't care for his tone. Sighing, she picked up the phone and dialled. "Hi Amanda, it's Brianna."

"Hey! You're home! How was the honeymoon?"

"Paradise. It's hard to get back into work mode." Brianna admitted.

"I'll bet. Well, I think everything's under control. I've sent you the latest mail and the schedules for Japan and Australia are pretty much set."

"Yeah, about that. Can we take a look at Japan for a minute?"

"Sure. Is someone wrong?" Amanda sounded nervous.

"A couple of the interviews need to be rescheduled." She paused. "Did you forget that Jon doesn't do interviews on show days?"

"Oh shit." Amanda swore. "I'm sorry. I forgot. I meant to ask you  about why that is. Is it just one of his quirks or is there a reason for it?"

"It's to save his voice for the show. You also have to remember - and occasionally remind some others - that if you have to talk to him on show days make sure that the questions are worded to require only yes or no answers that he can either nod or shake his head for. And make sure he takes his ginseng. You'll have to watch and listen to him closely. He won't always tell you if his throat is sore or bothering him."

As she listened to Brianna list all the things she needed to be aware of during the tour, Amanda could hear the wistful note in her  voice. "You should be the one going on tour. It's obvious you love it."

"Yes, but the kids need me to be at home." And no matter how much she wanted to go on tour, no matter how hard she tried to think of options around it, it was a reality she couldn't ignore or overcome. She had to stay home. Maybe if she could convince herself it was her choice to stay home it wouldn't hurt as much.



As the tour drew closer, the tension in the mansion on the Navesink grew. There were no arguments or even harsh words, but it was obvious neither of the adults were happy. Brianna struggled to hide her disappointment and Jon tried to find some way to make her feel better.

"I don't know why I have to sit and watch you do this." Jon grumbled as he watched her set jeans in his bag.

"Would you rather do it yourself?"

"No, I'd rather let you do it and go for a run."

"What's the first thing customs asks you about your luggage?"

He frowned, then sighed. "If I packed it myself and do I know everything that's in it."

"Right. And since I won't be there to back you up you need to watch what I put in here." She smirked. "You never know what I might sneak in."

He didn't smile at her feeble attempt at a joke. "You know I want you with me."

"I know." She didn't look up from the suitcase.

"If there was any way..."

"I know. But the kids have to come first."

"Honey...."

"Jon, it's okay. We've been over this a hundred times. I get it. I understand and agree." She shrugged. "There'll be other tours. The kids need me home right now."

"I don't want you to blame me and think I don't value you and the job you do. I know how much you love your job and how important it is to you."

"I don't blame you. It's nobody's fault. It is what it is. And when it comes right down to it, the kids well being is more important than any job."

"Maybe you could explain it to Steph. She thinks I'm becoming like your father and I'm forcing you to stay home because that's your place."

Her brows rose. "Is that why she's been giving you attitude lately?"

He nodded. "Uh huh. She's worried about me denying you what makes you happy." He rubbed a hand over his face. "She said the family had finally found happiness again and she's afraid you staying home will make you miserable and will destroy that happiness."

Brianna sighed. "I'll talk to her."




The day before Jon left, Brianna was in the kitchen making cookies when Stephanie wandered in. Her eyes widened as she looked around. "Whoa! Jake's class having a bake sale or something?"

"No, I'm making extra cooking for Dad and the guys to take on the plane."

"I'm sure the uncles would rather take you with them. They know you're good at more than just baking cookies and that you deserve the freedom to do the job you love."

Wow! Jon wasn't kidding. Sliding a tray of dough balls into the oven, Brianna grabbed a couple of Coke's out of the fridge and motioned to the stools beside the island. "Let's sit down and talk." She waited for Stephanie to sit and handed her a can. "Your Dad isn't forcing me to stay home. It was my decision. Contrary to what you obviously think, he does recognize my abilities."

"He has a funny way of showing it. As soon as you get married he's running of on tour while you stay home."

"Steph, when you get married and have a family you'll find out very quickly that balancing work and family is not always easy, particularly with a job like your dads. Sometimes sacrifices have to be made for the greater good."

"But you shouldn't always be the one making the sacrifice!"

"I'm not. Your dad gave up a lot of what he loves to do over the last couple years because it was what the family needed. When it came to the tour we had to weigh his needs, my needs and the needs of you and your brothers. And Steph, the needs of you and your brothers will always come first with me. You guys need me here more than your dad needs me with him or I need to tour."

"But you love touring." Stephanie argued. "You shouldn't have to give that up because of us! We can cope with Grandma and Grandpa or whoever you get to stay with us. It's not forever."

"No it's not. And it's not the last tour either. And that's why I chose to stay home this time. When Jake and Romeo are a little older we'll all feel more comfortable with me going on the road for weeks at a time."

Stephanie wasn't convinced. "It's not fair!"

"Maybe not, but that's life." Brianna tried to think of a way to make her understand. "Steph......a couple years ago I never thought I'd have a family of my own. The fact that you and your brothers have accepted me and opened your hearts to me to the point of actually wanting me with you means more to me than I can ever say. That acceptance, that...love...is more than worth missing a tour or two. I would miss the time spent with you guys far more than I'll miss the tour." And that's how I need to look at it.

"Really?"

"Really." She reached over to hug the teenager. "Come on. Help me finish the cookies and decide what to have for dinner."

"Okay."



The next day, as they all stood outside to say goodbye to Jon, Stephanie gave her dad an extra tight hug. "Have a safe trip. I love you Daddy."

"I love you too sweetie."

 She leaned back to look at him. "I still think you should bring Bri an extra-special present."

Jon laughed and gave her a squeeze. "That's a good idea."

After hugging the other kids, Jon turned to Brianna. "Want me to bring you some saki?"

Brianna shuddered. "No thanks."

He grinned. "Not in the mood for a little Top Gun?" At her withering look, he chuckled and hugged her. "Thanks for sorting things out with Steph. I don't like it when she's mad at me."

"You're just a big softie." She stroked his cheek and kissed him.

"Just when it comes to my family. I love you."

"I love you too. Have a safe flight, call me when you get there and make sure you share the cookies with the guys."

He snorted. "They'll have to earn them first." he opened the car door. "Bye!"

"Bye!" They all waved until the car cleared the gates.



Entering the house after taking the kids to school, Brianna checked her phone again, then checked the house phone and frowned. Jon should have landed awhile ago, but he still hadn't called. She didn't know whether he'd just forgotten or if something had happened.

"Bina what wong?"

"Nothing," I hope. "I was just checking if Daddy had called." She clapped her hands together. "Okay Little Man, it's just you and me. What do you want to do?"

"Have cookies?"

Brianna chuckled. "Not until after lunch."

"Oh. Puzzle?"

"That we can do. Let's go pick one out."

They'd just settled on the living room floor with the chosen puzzle when Brianna's phone rang. Finally! "Hey honey. What happened?"

"What do you mean?"

"You should have landed a couple hours ago. Did you just forget to call or was there a problem?"

Jon scowled. "The assholes that I'm travelling with thought it would be funny to tell Japanese customs that there was no way I packed my own bag so they'd better search it. They questioned me for fifteen minutes, but didn't find anything. So they searched everyone's luggage. We just got to the hotel."

"Aren't you glad I made you watch me pack for you?"

"Yes dear." He sipped his wine. I miss you already. "Everything okay on your end?"

"Yeah. Romeo and I are just doing a puzzle." I miss you already.

They talked for the better part of an hour, neither one wanting to say goodbye. But finally Jon needed to get some sleep.

"I'll call you tomorrow after the interviews. I love you."

"I love you too. Bye."

Both stared at their phones and sighed. It was going to be a long tour.



Saturday, July 11, 2015

Chapter 123

It was their third day on the island before the newlyweds set foot outside their suite.

"Are you up for a walk on the beach?"

They were enjoying a late breakfast on the balcony and scanning the scenery. Jon's question was as much about her physical condition as it was her wishes. He had worked very hard to fulfil his promise and while he hadn't completely crippled her, he had come close.

At another time his smugness might annoy her, but she was still wallowing in the afterglow of his efforts so she let it slide.  "As long as we're not running any races I am if you are."

Twenty minutes later, dressed in bathing suits and slathered with sunscreen, they made their way down to the beach. Hand in hand they strolled along the water's edge and white sand of Deadman's Beach. When they got tired they headed towards the nearest bar.

"Why don't you grab us a couple of those lounge chairs and I'll get us some drinks." Jon suggested. "Are you hungry?"

"No, but a drink sounds great."

While Jon headed towards the bar, Brianna turned towards the chairs scattered over the beach. She pulled two close together and sat, lifting her face to the sun and sighing in contentment.

A few minutes later, she could hear two women talking as they passed behind her chair.

"They're on their honeymoon apparently."

"Rock star or not, if my husband looked like that I'd keep him locked in the room too!"

"And for a lot longer than three days!"

Brianna smiled, not surprised they'd been discovered. It was par for the course when you were involved with a celebrity. As long as they weren't hounded she could deal with it.

"Here." Jon handed her a glass full of some fruity concoction with a tiny umbrella in it....and a small flag on a stick.

"What's the flag for?"

"When you want anything, just wave it and the waiters come out here."

"Hmm. Handy."

"What were you smiling about when I walked up?" He asked as he sat beside her.

"You've been noticed."

"Already? Fuck." Behind his dark sunglasses his eyes scanned the area around them. "Did they look like they might be a problem?"

"Well, they did talk about keeping you locked up in a room." She bit her bottom lip to suppress a grin.

His head jerked towards her. "What?! Are you serious?"

Brianna nodded. "They said if their husbands looked like you they'd keep them locked in a room for a lot longer than three days."

"Ha ha." Jon snorted, then paused. "How did they know.....?" He waved a hand. "Never mind. Damn fans find out everything."

She reached over to pat his arm, grinning openly now at his disgruntled tone. "It'll be okay honey, I'll protect you."

He leaned his head back against the chair. "Thanks. I feel so much better now."

She chuckled and reached for her drink.



A little while later, Brianna was starting to doze off when a member of the resort's staff approached her.

"Mrs. Bongiovi? If it's alright with you, we're ready to give you your massage now."

"My massage?" Brianna frowned,

"Yes. Your husband booked it for you."

Brianna looked at her husband who was seemingly ignoring the conversation.....but the smirk twisting his lips gave him away. "You did this?"

He shrugged. "Just thought you might like it."

"You know, if you start off being this considerate, I'm going to expect you to continue."

"Can't promise it'll happen, but I plan to try."

The sentiment brought tears to her eyes. Blinking rapidly, she stood and looked down at him. "Why don't you come and have a massage too?"

A glance at the staffer assured them that they could accommodate him as well.

"You know the only one I like rubbing me is you Golden Eyes."

"But these are professionals. They know how to work your kinks out better than I do."

He smirked. "Oh I don't know. You seem to be able to handle my kinks just fine."

Blushing, Brianna swatted his arm. "Pervert. Come on."

Jon chuckled, but did as she wished.


At the spa, they were shown to a room with a clear view of the beach. It was decorated much like their suite and had two sheet covered tables set up parallel to each other.  Apparently someone had called ahead and let them know there would be two guests. Soft music filled the air.

"Both of us in here?" Jon asked.

The staffer nodded. "It's called a couples massage. All that really means is that you share a room. You will each have your own therapist. Is that alright with you?"

"That's fine." Jon assured her. "We have no secrets. Right honey?"

"Sure babe." She winked at the staffer. At his scowl, she grinned. "Got to keep a little mystery so you don't lose interest."

"No chance of that happening Golden Eyes."

"Okay, I don't think I need a massage now. I just turned to mush."

"Me too." The staffer chuckled.


An hour later, kneaded and pummelled to a totally relaxed mass of quivering muscles, they struggled to work up enough energy to get up and dressed.

Jon rubbed his hand over his face. "Food or nap?"

"Whichever I don't have to move for." She had sat up, but hadn't moved off the table.

"Sorry honey, but I don't have the energy to carry you right now."

Brianna sighed. "Then what good are you?"

"If I had the energy I'd show you. Come on." Jon held out his hand and pulled her off the table.

They managed to stumble back to their suite where they collapsed on the bed. 



They spent the next several days exploring their idyllic environment. They swam, snorkled and even took a few SCUBA lessons to explore the various shipwrecks nearby. When they wanted to stay on top of the water, they hired a sailboat for an afternoon cruise.

Most of all, they relaxed and enjoyed alone time with each other. They knew that once they left here uninterrupted adult time would be hard to come by.

All too soon, it was time to go home. Both of them had mixed feelings while they packed. They were sad to leave but they missed the kids and couldn't wait to see them.



"Bina! Bina! Bina! You home!"

"Bianna!"

Brianna just managed to set her purse down before she was tackled by two little boys. "Hi guys! Did you miss us?"

"Uh huh!"

"You anyway." Jon grumbled. "Apparently I'm chopped liver."

"No, they're just used to you going away." Carol commented as she and John Sr. entered the foyer.

"Give Daddy a hug." Brianna whispered to Romeo, then straightened to greet her in-laws. "Hi. Everything go okay?"

"Yes. They were angels." Carol assured her.

John just smiled.

"Good, you're back. Brianna, I need help with my math."  Was Jesse's greeting. "Grandpa tried but couldn't figure it out either."

"Sorry kiddo. They didn't have algebra in my day." John explained.

"Did you have a good time?" Carol asked. "You look more relaxed than when you left."

Brianna laughed. "Yes. It was beautiful and very peaceful."

"Bianna? Will you make some cookies please?"

"What happened to all the ones I made before I left?" She'd thought she'd left plenty to get them through two weeks.

"Gampa ated dem." Romeo explained.

"All by himself?"

Romeo nodded, his eyes wide. 

"So that's where Jon gets it from." Brianna eyed her father-in-law.

John shrugged. "I stocked up your freezer with the staples."

"Staples?"

"Lasagna, spaghetti sauce, cannelloni...the staples." Stephanie clarified as she joined them.

"I left the desserts for you." John warned Brianna. "Pastry was never my thing."

Jon stood back and watched his family, feeling a little left out. He was glad they all accepted and loved Brianna, but he didn't like being ignored and forgotten. Disgruntled, knowing it was childish to feel jealous of his wife and kids but unable to stop, he picked up their suitcases and started up the stairs.

"I'll help you Dad." Jesse rushed over to take one of the bags and follow his father up the stairs.

"Thanks Jess." In the master bedroom, he set the suitcase on the bed.

Jesse followed suit. "Dad?"

"Mmmm?"

"Uh....did you have a good trip?"

Jon wasn't fooled that his son really wanted to talk about his trip, but he played along and waited him out. "Yes. It was really nice. How did things go here?"

Jesse shrugged. "Okay." his fingers toyed with the strap on the suitcase.  "When does the tour start?"

Suspecting his son's agitation had something to do with the idea of him leaving again, he watched him carefully. "We leave for Japan in three weeks. We'll only be gone for two and a half weeks. Then we'll be home until after New Year's."

Jesse nodded, but continued to play with the strap. "Is Brianna going with you?"

"No. She's going to stay home with you guys."

The boy's relief was obvious even before he spoke. "Good. I'm mean, I love Grandma and Grandpa, but it's not the same. Brianna's more like....."

"Mom?" Jon suggested when Jesse didn't finish his sentence.

Jesse shrugged. "Yeah....kind of."

Reaching out to grip the slim shoulder, Jon squeezed. "I know what you mean. I get it." And he felt even more justified in his decision not to take Brianna on tour. Obviously the kids needed her at home.

With a nod, Jesse started towards the door. "Grandma's got dinner ready."

"Okay."



After dinner and his parents departure, Jon decided to tackle his phone messages and e-mails. He'd wait for Brianna to sort his mail. A knock on his office door lifted his gaze from his computer screen.

"Dad?"

"Hey sweetie what's up?"

Stephanie strolled in and dropped into the chair across the desk from him. "So....it sounds like Brianna had a nice time."

Another one of his children trying to ease into a serious conversation with small talk. He sighed inwardly, but once again played along. "I think  so - I hope so anyway."

"She said it was beautiful and very romantic. Good job Dad."

"Thanks." He tried not to sound sarcastic. He knew it was a sincere compliment, he was just chagrined that she sounded surprised that he knew how to show his wife a good time.

"So you're home for three weeks then off to Japan, right?"

"Yes. We'll only be gone for two and a half weeks, then we're home until after the holidays."

"Bri must be getting excited about hitting the road again."

"She's not going on tour this time."

Her brows lifted. "What? Why not? I thought she was continuing as your assistant."

"She is, but Amanda will tour instead. Bri is staying home with you guys."

Surprise turned to a frown. "Why?"

"Because you guys need her more than I do."

"Really? Or is it because she's your wife now and that means her place is at home with the kids instead of working?"

His brows snapped together. "No! You know I don't agree with her father's views. Her place is wherever she wants it to be!"

"Even if she wants to be doing the job she loves and travelling with you?"

"When you guys are older maybe, but right now you need her here." Why am I arguing with my daughter about this?

Stephanie eyed him for a moment and remembered some advice her grandmother had given her when she was struggling with accepting Brianna into their family. "She's not Mom, Dad. She has different feelings and wants. You can't expect her to do things like Mom did. If you don't let her do what she loves, she'll be miserable. And that's not what any of us want. It's only for a few weeks at a time. We'll survive with Grandma and Grandpa or whoever you get to stay with us."

Deciding she'd given him enough to think about, she stood and headed for the door. She stopped in the doorway and looked back at him. "We're finally finding happiness as a family again, Dad. Please don't do anything to destroy it."

For a long time Jon stared at the now empty doorway. Where did all that come from? Fuck! Now what the hell do I do?



Saturday, July 4, 2015

Chapter 122

Paradise, thy name is Peter Island.

After landing on Saint Thomas, they boarded a helicopter for the final leg of their journey to the private island. Even in the dark, the view from the helicopter revealed a lush, tropical landscape, the white sand beaches glowing in the moonlight. 

Brianna tried to check out the lobby as they walked in, but after her long and active day, her tired mind only registered the airy feel and glimpses of bamboo and palm fronds. A more thorough investigation would have to wait until daylight.....and her vision wasn't blurred by fatigue.

"Mr. and Mrs. Bongiovi. Welcome and congratulations." The desk clerk greeted them.

"Thank you and thanks for letting us arrive so late." Jon replied as he signed in.

"No problem. We know how crazy wedding schedules can be. But you're here now so just relax and let us take care of everything."

"Mmm. That sounds....perfect." Brianna sighed and leaned tiredly against her husband.

One hand squeezed her hip and he kissed her temple. "Yeah, it does." Jon agreed.

"Max here will show you to your suite." The clerk indicated a nearby bellhop.

"If you will follow me." Max picked up their bags and led them down a hallway.

"Oh wow!" Brianna breathed as they entered the suite.

The main room was large and airy, decorated in blues and greens and woods that matched the natural beauty outside the floor to ceiling windows. The bedroom had the same colour scheme with white linens, tiled floor and colourful area rugs. The large fan in the high ceiling gently circulated the air. The bathroom was huge, with blue tile and white porcelain and included not only a Jacuzzi tub big enough for two, but also a two person shower - and Jon planned to make full use of both. Stepping out onto the balcony, while it was too dark to see much, they could hear the waves crashing on the beach and the scent of tropical flowers perfumed the air.

Jon thanked Max and tipped him. He took the suitcases into the bedroom and started to undress while Brianna made a more thorough investigation of each room, exclaiming over each new delight she found. When she came near him, he reached out to snag her with one arm around her waist and pull her close. "So I did good?"

Delicate hands slid up his bare chest and wound around his neck. "You did very good. It's beautiful."

"So are you." He dipped his head to kiss her. When he lifted his head he frowned and closed both hands around the material of her dress at her hips. "But you have too many clothes on for a honeymoon."

When he started to lift the dress, she felt compelled to point out an easier way. "There's a zipper in the back."

He shrugged. "This works."

Her throaty chuckle had his cock standing at attention even before her dress was a puddle on the floor and his eyes devoured her body, bare except for scraps of lace that he wasn't sure contained enough material to be classified as clothing - even underwear. He swallowed heavily and reached out to grasp both hands with his. He walked backwards toward the bed, tugging her with him. When the back of his legs hit the bed, he sat and pulled her between his knees.

His gaze drifted over her slowly from head to toe and her body reacted as if he'd touched her. Goosebumps rose on her flushed skin, her nipples began to harden and the flesh between her legs grew damp and achy. She licked her lips. "Touch me."

It was a whisper, but he heard her. "With pleasure."

Releasing her hands, he trailed his fingers up her arms to her shoulders. The light scraping of his calluses made her shiver. Her chest rose as if to meet his touch as his hands drifted over her collarbones and started down her torso. When he reached her bra and lightly traced the line where lace met silken flesh, her nipples hardened even more in anticipation. Jon couldn't resist the silent request. Leaning forward, he followed the same line with his tongue, then licked the material covering a stiff peak while his hands gripped her ribcage to hold her in place.

Her nails dug into his shoulders at the first tug of his lips. When his teeth closed around the swollen tip and his tongue rubbed the lace against it, it was too much - or not enough, she couldn't decide. She reached behind her back to undo the bra. Jon released her so that she could remove it, but before he could decide his next move, her fingers threaded through his hair to grip his head and draw him close again.

His hands rose to cup the lush mounds and she watched his mouth reclaim an aching nipple. Blue eyes glinted up at her as he nibbled and sucked, gratified to see the amber pools brighten with each stroke of his tongue. Lifting his head slightly, he shifted to give her other breast the same treatment.

One particularly strong pull took the strength from her legs. Jon caught her and laid back on the bed taking her with him. He rolled to reverse their positions and continued to tease and fondle the swollen globes of her breasts. But as much as he enjoyed the appetizer, his hunger grew steadily, urging him to explore and taste more of her delectable body.

As his lips drifted over her ribcage and stomach, the scent of her arousal filled his nose and sent his senses swirling. His cock throbbed, warning him if he didn't want this encounter to come to a quick finish he needed to calm himself down. Gripping her hips, he flipped her over. He let his hands and mouth roam slowly over her back while he concentrated on getting his body under control. He wasn't some green, hormone crazed school boy. He was a grown man, and while he'd always had a healthy sex drive - which occasionally reared its head at inconvenient moments like when he was on stage - for the most part, he controlled it just like he did the other aspects of his life. He shouldn't be having this much of a problem, especially after their recent mile high club activities. But he'd always had a problem resisting her. The feel of her skin, her scent, her taste, each distracting on its own, but combined they incinerated his control.

When he reached the thin strip of material that framed and split the globes of her ass, he took a deep breath and hooked two fingers under the strip and tugged it down over her hips. He grinned at her gasp when he nipped the firm flesh as he continued his journey down her body. The thong snagged on the heels of her shoes and after a quick internal debate he removed them as well.

Turning her into her back again, he started to make his way back up the supple legs that he dreamed about having wrapped around him. When he reached the smooth expanse of her inner thigh, her lure became too strong to resist. He slid his arms under her legs and over her waist and settled in to feast.

He was like starving man at a buffet. He didn't know where to start and couldn't get enough once he did. His tongue traced the length of her cleft, gathering the juices oozing from her core as he went. Her tart yet sweet flavour exploded in his mouth. But rather than safe his hunger, it just made him want more.

So he took more, slowly savouring her, caressing her swollen folds with soft licks, drinking deeply from her well. His teeth nibbled and scraped her tender flesh, drawing gasps and soft moans from her throat. With his body warning him time was running out, he focused his attention on the bundle of nerves at the top of her cleft. He laved and flicked it with his tongue. Her cries filled his ears when his lips closed around it and sucked.

Brianna let go of the sheet she'd been gripping and reached for him, tangling her fingers in his hair and pulling him closer. Her hips rocked towards him, reaching for the orgasm that was approaching but was still just out of her reach. The teasing touch of his lips, teeth and tongue as they drifted over her throbbing flesh had her writhing and pulling him closer yet. "Mmmm. Close...so close." One particularly strong pull of his clips on her clit finally sent her over the edge. "Yes!"

Jon didn't wait for her to recover - his aching cock wouldn't let him. Instead, he shifted upwards, keeping her legs on his shoulders, until he could sink into her humid depths. The spasms still echoing through her body was like a massage on his buried shaft. "Fuck you feel good!"

Brianna didn't have the breath to speak. She could only moan as he started to move, driving himself in and out of her body. With her legs over his shoulders she couldn't move. She could only accept and absorb each powerful thrust. The friction kept her arousal from diminishing. Each movement just drove it higher and higher. Her whole body trembled on the brink of explosion. Looking up into Jon's flushed, sweat coated face, his blue eyes dark and burning, his lips glistening with her juices didn't help.

"Come for me Golden Eyes." Jon panted. "Now!"

One final deep thrust was all it took to push her over the edge again. "Jon!"

"Fuck!" Jon closed his eyes and grimaced as his body responded to the pull of hers and erupted.

It took several minutes before he had enough strength to withdraw from her body and roll to the side. One hand reached out to tug her into his arms. "You okay?"

"Mmmm." She sighed as she snuggled against him.

Both of them fell asleep before they could say another word.



Brianna opened her eyes and gazed across the fur covered expanse of the chest under her cheek towards the windows to the balcony. The pale light told her it was barely dawn, but already the scent of the nearby flowers wafting through the open windows was heavenly.

Yawning, her fingers idly sifted through the thick mat of his chest hair. When she came across the nub of his nipple, her nail scraped it absently. He sighed and shifted slightly, his cock stirred against her thigh. A gentle smile curved her lips and she turned her head to kiss the warm flesh under cheek. Her hand drifted over his chest and abdomen. When  she came into contact with his swelling shaft, her fingers explored lazily, lightly stroking up and down, rubbing under the ridge and over the wide head.

With a soft moan, he shifted again, lifting into her touch in a silent plea for more. Brianna grinned and slid onto him, let her mouth caress his torso as she moved down towards the prize in her hand. Reaching it, she glanced up to see a sliver of cobalt blue watching her. She licked her lips. "My turn."

A groan was the only response he was capable of, all words erased from his mind at the touch of her tongue on his already aching flesh. Up and down and all around it slithered, followed by the cool waft of her breath as she blew on the wetness. One hand closed around the base, holding him steady while she swallowed him. "Fuck!"

She settled into a rhythm, her hand pumping in counter point to her mouth. He endured the sweet torture for as long as he could, but when she moved her hand down to cup his sac, he broke. Easing her head back, he sat up and shifted back until he was leaning against the headboard. At her raised eyebrow, he crooked a finger. "Come her Golden Eyes. As much as I love the feel of my cock buried in your delectable mouth, I like it even better buried in your luscious body."

"Is that right." Brianna crept upwards, rubbing her body along his and dotting kisses over his stomach and chest as she did so. "Well....we'll have to see if we can arrange something." 

The scraping of her teeth over his Adam's apple sent shivers down his spine. "Brat."

He gripped her hips, lifted her end set her down on his throbbing erection, grinning at her gasp. "There. Now ride me Golden Eyes."

"Mmmm." She nibbled along his jaw and nipped his bottom lip playfully as she rocked against him. Bracing her hands on his shoulders, she straightened and began to rise and fall on his buried shaft. "Is this what you want?"

Jon's heated gaze roamed over her flushed face and undulating body....and froze on the sight of his flesh, glistening from her wetness, disappearing and emerging from her body. "Fuck yeah." 

Brianna watched his face as he watched their bodies merge again and again. His pleasure was obvious and fuelled her own. As she moved, his hands ran up and down her sides, squeezing her hips and stroking the sides of her breasts. Soon, the light touches weren't enough for her. She needed more.

The tug of her fingers in his hair pulled Jon's gaze up her torso from where their bodies joined......and stopped at the sight of the plump globe of her breast, the stiff nipple reaching towards him, being held out to him by a delicate hand. It was an invitation he was more than happy to accept.

A rumble of approval vibrated in her throat when his lips closed around her nipple and he sucked. That's it kitten, purr for me.  His teeth held the sensitive nub steady while his tongue rubbed and flicked.

"Oh! Mmmm." Brianna shuddered and ground her pelvis against his.

Jon groaned and released her breast with a pop. Panting, he struggled for control. When he glanced up into her flushed face and glowing eyes, he was relieved to see that she was close too.

But close wasn't enough. He needed to push her over the edge. His hands gripped her ribcage and shifted slightly until he could reach her other breast. As he nibbled and sucked, she cried out and rocked harder and faster against him, desperately reaching for the rapidly approaching climax.

Brianna closed her eyes and held him tight against her, "Oh. Oh. Oh. Mmmm yes. Yes! Harder. Mmmm like that. Yes! Yes! Yes! Jon!"

"Fuck!" Jon groaned as her body's spasms triggered his own and he exploded inside her.

It took several minutes before either one of them had the strength to move. Finally, Brianna rolled off of him and collapsed onto the bed. A few minutes later Jon slid down to join her. Their hands reached out to touch, but that was all they had energy for before they both fell asleep.



The next time Brianna opened her eyes, the sun shone brightly, luring her to come out and play. Her body told her the bathroom was about as far as she should plan on going today.

Easing from the bed, she bit back a groan as she stood and waited to see if her legs would hold her up. She made it to the bathroom and back.  When she neared the bed the singing of birds drew her attention outside once again. Soft snoring told her Jon was still sleeping soundly and she let him be. He'd more than earned his rest.

She didn't want to risk waking him by rummaging through her suitcase, so she picked up his dress shirt that had been tossed on the floor and pulled it on. Easing open the door, she slipped out onto the balcony.

Jon woke to find himself alone in the bed. A glance towards the bathroom revealed another empty room. Sitting up, he looked around again and finally spied her on the balcony. She was leaning on the railing, the breeze playing with her hair and swirling the hem of his shirt around her thighs.

His cock stood up in appreciation of the sight. He looked down in disbelief, then shrugged and grinned. It was their honeymoon. He was supposed to be horny all the time. Rising from the bed, he started towards his bride, paused and detoured to his suitcase.

Brianna jerked when his arms slid around her, pulling her back against his firm chest. She hadn't heard him approach. "Morning."

"Morning." He nuzzled under her ear.

"I...mmmmm." She tilted her head to the side, closed her eyes and leaned back against him as his hands slid under the shirt to explore her sensitive areas. "I didn't think you'd be up for awhile yet."

"Oh I'm up." He bent her forward slightly and slid his cock into her welcoming body. "See?"

"Oh!" Brianna gasped and gripped the railing. The squawking of two birds as they chased each other reminded her of their location. "Some might see us!"

He glanced up and down the empty beach. "No one's around. Even if someone looked up here all they'd see is a couple cuddling on the balcony." His lips twitched. "Besides, the risk of getting caught adds a little thrill don't you think?"

Think? How was she supposed to think with his thumb rubbing her nipple and his fingers stroking the flesh surrounding his buried erecting. "Mmmm."

"Like that?" He murmurs in her ear. "What about this?"

She heard the buzzing a split second before the finger vibrators touched her skin. Her whole body shuddered as her nerve endings sparked throughout her body. "Jesus!"

"No, Jon." He grinned. "But if you want to think of me as a god, I won't complain."

Her chuckle turned into a groan as his fingers moved in circles - one around her stiffened nipple, the other around her clit. She bit her lip to stifle her cries and she fought to remain still, all in an effort to avoid detection if someone wandered close enough to see them.

Jon knew what she was doing by her furtive glances towards the beach, but he was confident this was one battle how would win and wouldn't have to do anything but wait. She couldn't hold out against the intense stimulation for long.

And he was right. With each pass of his fingers over her sensitive nubs, her control was eroded until all concerns about being caught were swamped by overwhelming need. Gripping the railing, Brianna rocked her hips back against him, driving him deeper and deeper into her body.

"That's it. That's my beautiful girl. Take what you need." He groaned at the feel of her body tightening around him as her orgasm drew closer. "You feel so fucking good."

Brianna could only moan in agreement. Her brain couldn't formulate a thought, and her mouth certainly couldn't speak one. Her whole being was focused on the ebb and flow of his body into hers and the sensations that resulted from it. 

Around and around he circled the small instruments of torture, stirring her passion, pushing it higher and higher until it overwhelmed her and she shattered. "Oh!"

Jon grit his teeth and struggled to hold on while her body convulsed around him. He glanced up and down the beach. This was when he had to watch for anyone nearby. He wasn't done with her yet and he wasn't sure she would be able to contain he cries.

Brianna wasn't aware of anything other than the blood pounding in her veins and the shudders wracking her body in never ending waves. Gasping for breath, she focused on riding the waves. When she couldn't take anymore, but he showed no signs of stopping, she grasped the wrist of the hand between her legs and pushed it further back, dragging the vibrator over his scrotum to the spot just behind it and held it there.

"Fuck!" Jon groaned as his control was ripped away and he exploded inside her.

When she could speak again, Brianna had to ask. "Are you trying to kill me?"

Jon snorted. "No. It's our honeymoon. I'm going to love you until neither of us can walk."  Easing out of her body, he nuzzled under her ear. "How about a bath?"

She nodded and followed him back inside. As they passed the bed and she saw the toys spread over it, she stopped and raised a brow at him.

He smirked. "I told you. Until neither of us can walk."

Her mind balked at the idea. 

Her body hummed in anticipation.