Chapter 89

They sat quietly for a few more minutes until Veronica yawned again. “Anything else you want to talk about or are we done for tonight?”

“We’re done.”

“Can we go to bed then please?”

Jon chuckled, stood and held out his hand. “Yeah. Let’s go.”

Giving him her hand, she let him pull her to her feet. When he didn’t move she crooked a brow.

His arm swept out. “Lead on sugar.”

With a low laugh, she did just that, pausing long enough for him to pick up his bag on the way.

While he was in the bathroom, Veronica turned down the bed and changed into her nightgown.

Passing in the hallway, he looked at her gown. “Nice, but why bother?”

“Why not?”

“You won’t keep it on long enough to make the effort worthwhile.”

“You think so, do you?”

“Sugar, I know so.”

“Haven’t you had enough for today?”

“What, you mean that little appetizer in my dressing room earlier?” He crowded her against the wall. “Sweetheart, when I’ve had to go without you for a few days, as wonderful and intense as that was, it’s not enough to satisfy my hunger for long. Don’t I prove that every month?” He glanced down at her nightgown again. “And I don’t need provocative bits of silk and lace to turn me on. You do that all by yourself.”

Veronica snorted. “Wow! Talk about laying it on thick! You must be really horny.”

“Only for you sugar.” He leaned in to nuzzle beneath her ear. “Only for you.”

She shivered, gathered her strength and pushed him away with a breathless chuckle. “Cool your jets for a few minutes, big boy. Go on, I’ll be there in a few minutes.”

His lips touched hers in a gentle, lingering kiss. “Don’t be long.”

Veronica watched him walk down the hallway and disappear into her bedroom. Blowing out a deep breath she turned towards the bathroom. After finishing what she needed to do, she stared at her reflection in the mirror. Well Veronica, you were so sure you could handle this...what are you going to do? It was getting harder and harder to keep a part of herself separate from him....protected from him. The urge was very strong to just let go and let herself get sucked in again by memories, old feelings and his charm. Especially when he was in a playful mood. Very few people ever got to see that side of him. She’d been lucky enough to see it frequently, and it was always devastating to her determination to hold firm against him. The man could make her cry, exasperate her to no end, and make her want to scream – or slap him. But he could also make her laugh and feel more.....special....and desired than any man she’d ever met. That doesn’t solve the issue of his kids and your reaction to them. And there was the point she couldn’t argue and couldn’t get beyond. No, it was better for both of them if she continued to fight against falling in love with him again, as tempting as it may be.

The problem was she was afraid it was already too late.

Walking into the bedroom, she found him lying naked on his back, hands behind his head, the blankets pushed down to the foot of the bed. Damn, the man was a pleasure to look at! As she moved closer he went from half-mast to full erection while she watched.

“So you are happy to see me.”

“I’d be even happier if you’d come closer.” He crooked a finger at her.

She came to a stop beside the bed on the side nearest him. “How close? This close?” One slender hand reached out to wrap around his swelling flesh.

Breath hissed through his teeth. “That’s a start.”

Fingers stroked and teased. He swelled and hardened even more. “Only a start? You want closer? Hmmm....maybe like this?” She bent and ran her tongue in one long, slow lick from base to tip. His hips rose as her mouth did, always searching for more. Holding him down, she opened her mouth wide and took him in, lowering slowly until she’d engulfed his entire length.

All thoughts Jon had to take it slow evaporated at the touch of her lips and the sight of his erection sliding all the way into her mouth. One hand tangled in her curls – not to guide her, but to hold her hair aside so that he could watch her.

Veronica watched his face while she played, gliding slowly down and sucking on her way up. His face was flushed, his eyes glittering, sweat gathering on his brow and upper lip. On her next ascent she very lightly scraped her teeth along the throbbing shaft.

His head pressed into the pillow, neck arched, eyes closed, a guttural moan was torn from his throat. “Jesus!”

She released him with an audible pop. “Something wrong? Too close?”

Not able to speak yet, he grasped her shoulders and pulled her onto the bed, and onto him. By the time she regained her balance and straddled his waist, he’d wrestled her nightgown from her and tossed it aside.

As she sat up he let his gaze drift over her body. “You’re going to kill me....and I can’t wait.”

Veronica chuckled and ran her hands over his chest. Locking her eyes to his, she scraped her nails over the hard muscles, not enough to leave a mark, but enough to send sparks along his nerve endings. She leaned forward slightly, rose up on her knees, and guiding him with one hand impaled herself. When she was fully seated she slowly rocked against him. “Baby, I’m just getting started.”

Jon studied her face and assessed the smirk twisting her lips and decided he wasn’t up to dealing with any more of her teasing. His heart couldn’t take it! A quick movement had their positions reversed. Flexing his hips, he pushed deeper. Her gasp was music to his ears. “You were saying?”

Not about to let him get the upper hand, she wrapped her legs around his waist, raked her nails down his back and squeezed him with her internal muscles, grinning when his back arched and he sucked in a sharp breath. “I said, I was just getting started.”

He lowered his chest onto hers, slid his hands under hips to lift her into his downstroke and began to thrust. “Well sugar, you may have started this, but I’m going to finish it!”

With that he picked up his pace, setting a steady, driving rhythm. Within minutes, their breathing was laboured and the only sounds in the room were the slap of flesh against flesh accompanied by gasps and soft moans.

“God Nica, you feel so damn good! Hot, wet velvet.”

“Mmmm, you fill me so full Johnny! Oh! Mmmm, right there...yes! Oh fuck! More Johnny. Harder!”

“Like this?” He drilled her into the mattress.

“Yes...oh God...mmmm...yes...yes...yes...yes...oh...oh...OH...OH GOD...YES...JOHNNY!” Her body went rigid, then convulsed.

“Fuck Nica!” Jon growled in her ear as his own release swamped him. He slowed his thrusts, but kept moving until he was empty and her muscles started to relax. No strength left, he collapsed on her and struggled to get his breath.

Veronica welcomed his weight, held him tight and waited for her world to stop spinning. His brand of lovemaking was indescribably wonderful...and extremely addictive. She’d convinced herself that her memory was playing tricks on her, exaggerating the sensations. Reality was showing her that not only was her mind not exaggerating at all, but he’d learned a few things and had gotten even better! No doubt about it, she was like a junkie that needed a regular fix. The fact that he was offering to provide it on a more than casual basis made it that much harder to resist him.

Finally Jon gathered his strength and rolled off of her to stare at the ceiling. “You’re going to be the death of me!”

“Me? I think you’ve got that backwards babe. I’m still seeing stars!”

A huge grin curved his lips. “Better than toys?”

Veronica snorted. “I’d rather have the real thing any day.” Lori’s comment came back to her. “Speaking of toys, you didn’t really keep the one Lori gave me did you?”

“Yep. I have plans for that.”

“No.”

“Yes. You’re going to like it sugar, I promise.”

“I’ll agree to that if you agree to try Viagra.”

He turned his head to look at her, a slight frown forming. “You think I need to?”

“Need to? No, you’re more than capable of holding up your end of things in the sex department.” She rolled half on him, braced herself on his chest so that she could see his face. “Aren’t you curious about what it might be like?”

“I never thought about it. Are you?” He wasn’t sure what the message was she was sending him.

“It’s crossed my mind a time or two.” Veronica grinned at his expression. “Relax Jon, I’m teasing.” Sort of. “I have no complaints.” She stretched out a hand to turn off the light, pulled up the blankets, kissed him and settled against him, her head on his shoulder and drifted off to sleep.

Jon hugged her closer and contemplated her comments for a few minutes before following her into dreamland.

Chapter 88

Jon set his bag down on the floor near the couch and wandered around Veronica’s apartment. The rooms were just like her – neat without being uncomfortable, understated elegance with an unexpected splash of colour now and then.

One such splash was an incredible abstract hanging above the gas fireplace. Vibrant colours flowed in sweeps and swirls reminiscent of a woman’s dress and long hair blowing in the wind. He kept looking, but her form and face remained indistinct.

“Have you seen Tico’s work?”

“No, I haven’t. I’ve heard it’s great though.”

Jon nodded. “Get him to show you his studio when we hit Florida. You’ll like it.”

Finally tearing himself away from the painting, he glanced around the room again, noting the comfortable looking furniture, a few unique nic-nacs, a couple pictures of Veronica and the girls and one of what appeared to be – judging by the presence of sweatshirt man – Lori and her family. Used to his wall of family photos both in New Jersey and in the New York loft, her lack hit him like a kick in the gut – or somewhere lower and more painful. He felt responsible and more determined than ever to fix it.

“Nice, very nice.”

Veronica released a breath she wasn’t even aware of holding. “Thank you. It’s not a mansion, but....”

“It’s a warm and comfortable home. It’s very.....you.”

“Is that good or bad?”

“Oh it’s good. Very good. Anytime you want to make changes in the Jersey house, go right ahead.”

She stared at him. “Why would I make changes in your house?”

Careful Johnny, don’t push too fast. He shrugged. “I’m just saying that if you get the urge, I’m giving my agreement now.”

Next, he turned his attention to her music collection. Reba, Leanne, Gretchen, Keith Urban, Rascal Flatts, side by side with classic rock from the seventies and eighties like Foreigner, Journey and April Wine, next to Stevie Ray, Moody Blues and several of the blues greats.

“None of ours?” He crooked a brow at her.

“Not CDs. They’re on my iPod.” She hesitated. “I gave away my Slippery and New Jersey vinyl.”

He didn’t ask why or criticize. He understood how painful the memories must have been for her.

Jon studied her for a moment, sighed and waved at the couch. “Nica, can we sit down and talk for a minute?”

She hesitated. She was tired and not sure she was up to a serious discussion – which his expression and tone indicated was his intent - but she knew if she didn’t agree, he would just push and pester until she did. “Okay.”

Once they were settled, facing each other on the couch, she waited for him to speak. He searched her eyes, his expression....hard.

“What’s going on with Vince? And don’t tell me nothing! I can tell by your mood when you get off the phone with him and obviously Lori knows since she asked if tonight’s reviews would get him off your back.”

“It’s really nothing. Just some work shit that will pass.”

“Dammit Ronnie! Tell me what the FUCK is going on!”

“Hey! Don’t take that tone with me! I’m not your employee, I’m your....” She trailed off.

He motioned for her to continue. “Yes? You’re my...what? Lover? Definitely. Girlfriend? I thought so, but that can’t be right. That would mean we were a couple, but couples talk about what’s going on with their jobs and daily activities. But as far as I can tell, the sharing between us is all one sided. It takes two to make a couple Ronnie.”

She stared at him, stunned. “You’re lecturing me on talking about what’s going on in our lives?” She snorted. “That’s a little hypocritical don’t you think?” Some of their biggest arguments in the past had been because he wouldn’t talk to her about his life.

“So, this is payback?” He raked a hand through his hair and reached for patience. “I know I’ve made mistakes. I’m trying to learn from them and not make them again. You promised you were going to try to make this relationship work Ronnie. I tell you everything, whether it’s about the band, the kids, the Soul or the Foundation. Am I really asking for so much? Or is it some big dark secret that you don’t want me to know?”

Veronica sighed. He had a point, and if he was anyone else she would have told him. “No, but it’s my problem, not yours. I need to deal with it myself.”

“So, does that mean that you can’t tell me about it? And couples are supposed to deal with things together! Don’t you get that what affects you affects me? When I see you upset, or that frown shadowing those beautiful eyes, I want to help!”

“And that’s exactly why I didn’t tell you! I knew that your first reaction would be to try to ‘fix it’. This is my job, Jon, my career. I can’t have my boyfriend – the rockstar and client - calling up my boss to complain about how I’m being treated! How would that look?”

He couldn’t argue her logic. She was right about what he would have done. “Ok, I understand what you’re saying. I even agree. So if I promise not to try to ‘fix it’ will you tell me what Vince is doing?”

Veronica stared at him for several breaths, sighed and gave in. As she related the story, his jaw tensed, his brows snapped together in a dark frown and his eyes became glacial, but he managed to remain silent until she was finished.

“I’ve met Keith. He’s eager, but he doesn’t know as much as he thinks he does. He’s also the biggest brown noser I’ve ever met. Unfortunately for him, he doesn’t have the gut instinct to back up his boasts. He doesn’t have a tenth of the ability that you do. There’s no way in hell that I would trust him with Dubai!” The muscle twitched in his jaw. “So this is my fault then.”

“How do you figure that?” It wasn’t the response she was expecting from him.

“I used my influence to get Vince to force you to work with us, then didn’t tell anyone – either the label or you – about Dubai until it was set, cutting you short on time and making an already difficult situation even worse. I’m sorry, honey, I never meant for that to happen.”

Veronica shook her head and snorted. “You’re really something Jon, you know that?”

“What?”

“There is no need for you to feel guilty. As much as you might want it to be true, not everything that happens to me is because of you.”

Anger melted the ice in the famous blue eyes. “That’s not what I meant!”

“I know. And I know that you are just concerned about me, and I appreciate that. But it’s not the first time I’ve had to deal with competition and petty jealousies in my career you know. I can handle it.”

He nodded as his anger faded and logic took over. She’d been in the business too long not to have faced this type of thing before, and her success proved that she knew how to handle it. He frowned. “Did I really sound that egotistical?”

Veronica smiled. “A little, but I knew what you meant.”

He sighed. “Sorry.”

She reached out to pat his hand. “We’ll work on that.”

His hand turned to grasp hers. “Is there anything else you’re not telling me?

Veronica searched her memory and shook her head. “No.”

“You’re sure?”

“Jon, I’m with you almost every day! And when I’m not, I’m working or hanging out with the girls. Other than the latest in the dating scene in Nashville, who’s been in the studio – and I tell you everything interesting there - and the latest gossip from Yoga class, most of which you don’t give a shit about, you know everything I do. I don’t have time to come up with anything new to tell you.”

He had to smile at that. “Okay, okay.” He paused. “Honey, I understand why you didn’t want to tell me about the grief Vince was giving you, but.....if I promise not to interfere, will you promise to tell me when shit happens with your job? After all, I do know the business. Maybe I can help.”

“As long as you promise to listen and only help if I ask you to.”

He held up three fingers. “Promise. Scout’s honour.”

“Uh huh.” She’d see how long that promise lasted. The thought struck her that the traditional roles for men and women in relationships were a little skewed for them, and she smirked.

Jon noticed. “What?” When she explained what she was thinking he just shrugged. “The traditional route didn’t work so well for us, so maybe changing it up a bit will give us a better result.”

She couldn’t argue.

Chapter 87

Cleaned up and redressed, Jon and Veronica climbed into the waiting van to join the others already there.

Richie glanced at his watch. “You’re lucky. We were giving you five more minutes then leaving without you.”

Veronica frowned. “Thank you. I appreciate you waiting.”

“Why? We would have sent the van back for you.” David spoke up.

“It would have been too obvious if Jon and I had arrived alone and after everyone else.”

It was Jon’s turn to frown. “Does that still matter? It didn’t seem to bother you that Gretchen knew we’re together.”

“Gretchen’s my friend. She may tease me – and you apparently – but she would never say anything to the press or to any outsiders. And yes, it still matters. The tour isn’t over yet.”

Jon sighed. I guess her attitude hasn’t changed as much as I thought.

The after party was in full swing by the time they arrived. Guiding Jon around the crowded bar to ensure he talked to everyone he needed to, Veronica had to remind herself to keep a little distance between them. It was almost reflex for him to put his arm around her if she got too close......and she’d barely notice – until it was too late. Better to keep a foot or so between them.

There were a lot of people there that she knew. This was her town after all, and her friends. After the work was done she spent a lot of time visiting with people she hadn’t seen in weeks.

Every time Jon looked for her, he found her laughing, dancing and hugging people he didn’t know. He frowned. A couple times he saw her head bent close to someone and they appeared to be deep in serious conversation. His frown deepened. When he heard her shriek and spun around to see her being lifted high in the air, then enveloped in a bear hug by some broad backed Adonis, a growl rumbled in his throat and he started to stand up from the table.

Lori put a hand on his arm to restrain him. She, Naomi and Tricia hadn’t been able to get to the show in time to stop backstage and say hello beforehand,, but had come to the party at Jon’s invitation. “That’s my brother Tom. He’s like an older brother to her, nothing more.”

Ah....the owner of the sweatshirt. Jon grunted, sat down again and turned back to Lori. “By the way, I owe you a thank you.”

“What for?”

“You’re the one who bought Ronnie the....toy.... right?”

It took a moment for Lori to clue in. When she did, her face flamed. “Oh God....you didn’t....I mean....did you actually.....use it?” She was torn between embarrassment and curiosity.

“Not yet, but I plan to.”

“And Veronica agreed to that?” Her brows rose in surprise.

“She doesn’t know yet...but she will.”

The look in Jon’s eyes was enough to make Lori want to trade places with Veronica. She hoped her friend realized how lucky she was and took advantage of what she was being offered.

An hour or so later Veronica looked over to see that Tico, David, Gretchen and Big Kenny had joined Jon and Lori at the table. Gretchen was leaning towards Jon touching his arm and leg. Curious, she moved to see what was going on.

When she got closer enough words drifted to her to realize that they were talking about work out routines and muscle groups. Walking up behind Jon, she slid her hands over his shoulders and down onto his chest.

“Hands off there girlfriend, get your own, this one’s mine!”

Jon leaned back against her and tilted his head to study her face. “Reporters all gone?” He figured they must be for her to touch him like that in public. Veronica nodded.

“You’re in a good mood Ronnie.” David noted. “Are you drunk?”

Before she could answer, Jon did – after a quick look down at himself. “I’ve still got my clothes on, so I’d say no.”

There was silence around the table for several seconds, then Lori had to ask. “Excuse me?”

“When Ronnie gets drunk she tends to rip my clothes off.” He looked up at Veronica and dared her to deny it.

Veronica looked down at him, face heating, trying to decide whether to smack him or act like it was no big deal. She couldn’t deny it, she remembered too many nights when that did indeed happen. Finally, she shrugged. “That was a long time ago. I’m older now, more able to control myself.”

Jon offered his half full wine glass to her. “Want to put that to the test?”

Glaring at him, she took the glass, downed it, and handed the glass back to him. When she wrinkled her nose at him, he just grinned and refilled the glass from the bottle in front of him.

“Have you eaten nina?” Tico wanted to make sure things didn’t get out of hand too quickly.

“Si papa. Ino te molestes.(Don’t worry). I had a burger a little while ago.”

“Escuchar sus elderes (Listen to your elders) nina!” He pushed the plate of chicken wings sitting on the table closer to her. “If you’re going to drink, eat!”

“Si papa.” Veronica knew better than to argue with him. She reached for a wing.

“So, if it’s not the alcohol, what’s got you in such a good mood?” David brought the conversation back to his original point.

Veronica shrugged and grinned. “This is my town. These are my friends.” She paused. “And I got a preview of some of the reviews that will be printed tomorrow.”

“I take it they’re positive?”

“Mmmhmmm...very.”

“Good enough to get Vince off your back?” Lori asked.

Veronica snorted. “He’ll just say he didn’t expect anything else....then ask how Dubai’s going.”

Jon had gone on alert at Lori’s question, and now turned his gaze on Veronica. “Is there a problem?”

Veronica waved a dismissive hand. “Just work shit.”

It was obvious that she didn’t want to talk about it. Jon decided to let it go for now, but the discussion wasn’t finished.

Lori winced and threw Veronica an apologetic glance. She’d forgotten that Jon didn’t know about Vince’s badgering. “Veronica, you didn’t tell me that your man here was into kink.”

“What do you mean?”

“Well he thanked me for the....toy....I gave you and said he planned on using it.”

Veronica stared at Lori for a moment then snorted. “In his dreams! Besides, I threw it away.” Clenching one hand she tugged on his chest hair. “I can’t believe you said that!”

“Ow!” His hand came up to hold hers and keep her from pulling again. “Sugar, you know how good I am at making my dreams come true.” He grinned. “And you only threw the box away. I kept the goods.”

Veronica rolled her eyes and blushed as the others laughed.





A little while later, the room started to empty as people headed for their beds. Big Kenny stopped to shake Jon’s hand.

“Nice to see you man.” He hesitated, glancing across the room to where Veronica was talking to the girls. “Take good care of her. She’s a very special lady.”

Jon too looked at Veronica. “I know, and I will. Thanks for coming man. It was great to see you.”

Veronica came up beside Jon just after Kenny walked away, and laid her head on his shoulder.

He slid an arm around her waist and squeezed. “You ready to head out sugar?”

“Mmmhmm.” She nodded. “Has the van come back yet?” Richie, Tico, Dave and Hugh had gone back to the hotel earlier and promised to send the van back for them.

“Yeah. Come on, let’s go.”

They gathered up their belongings, waved to the few who were still around and headed out the door. In the van, Veronica leaned back and closed her eyes.

“Where to Mr. B?” The driver turned in his seat to ask.

After a moment’s silence Jon nudged Veronica. “Answer him sugar.”

“Huh? What?” Veronica blinked.

“He needs the address.”

She frowned, confused. “To the hotel?”

“No, to your apartment.”

All sleepiness disappeared as she realized what he wanted.....for her to take him home. To her home. For some reason the thought of that made her nervous. She didn’t know why. It was a reasonable request, considering their relationship.

When she didn’t answer right away and just stared at him, Jon realized that she wasn’t too sure about taking him to her apartment. Fuck that shit! I’ll make her accept that we’re together if it’s the last thing I do! Lips twisting into a somewhat sad smile, he reached out and caressed her cheek with his fingertips. “Nica, I....I’m not going anywhere, so you might as well let me in. Besides, it’s only fair. I took you to my home.”

She was sure he’d started to say something else, but she didn’t want to think about that either. But he was right. There was no reason to deny his request. Sighing, she nodded and gave the driver directions.

Chapter 86

“Jesus! I don’t know how you can keep your hands off of him!” Gretchen leaned over to yell in Veronica’s ear. “If he was with me I’d never let him out of bed....unless it was for a little change of scenery. Hell, it’s taking all of my restraint not to climb up on that stage and jump him now!”
Veronica laughed, knowing that Gretchen would never poach. “I guess he’s not too hard on the eyes.”

“As long as he’s hard everywhere else.” Gretchen gave her a knowing look.

Veronica felt herself blush and glanced up to see Jon on the ego ramp looking at them. Her face got even hotter when Gretchen grinned and gave him the thumbs up. Jon flashed his pearly whites, caught Veronica’s eye and winked.

During the bows, Jon kept shooting glances between Veronica and the back of the stage.

Gretchen noticed. “I think you’re wanted backstage.”

“Uh huh. He can wait though. He’ll survive. It’s been ages since I’ve seen you.” Veronica lead Gretchen backstage.

“But will you be able to wait? If you can, you’re a stronger woman than I am.”

Veronica grimaced. The truth was, after watching him run around the stage for the last two and half hours, coupled with her few days abstinence, her blood was pumping, her skin was tingling and she was all but aching for him. And she didn’t like that he affected her senses that much. Making him wait was as much for her own self preservation as anything else.

By now they’d reached the hallway behind the stage where the guys were emerging. When Jon saw them, he immediately left the laughing group of men and approached them.

“Did you enjoy the show Gretchen?”

“As always Jon. I don’t know where you get your energy though. I’m tired just from watching you.”

Jon chuckled and wiped a towel over his glistening face. “Years of practice and daily workouts.” He glanced at Veronica. “And incentive. So....were you bored?”

Veronica shrugged and fought not to smile. “Maybe not completely.”

Gretchen snorted.

Jon grinned and slid his arm around Veronica’s waist. “Gretchen, do you mind if I steal Ronnie away for a few minutes?”

“You disappoint me Jon, I thought for sure you’d need longer than a few minutes! Maybe I shouldn’t envy Veronica after all.”

Jon choked and Veronica laughed, familiar with Gretchen’s outspokenness.

Gretchen grinned. “Oh, go on. I’ll see you later.”

“You’re coming to the party right?” Veronica asked.

“Yeah, I’ll be there. We have a lot of catching up to do.” She glanced at Jon and winked. “I’ll see you in a few minutes.....or no earlier than an hour or so if you want to live up to my expectations.”

“I’ll see what I can do.” Jon promised with a leer at Veronica. “See you later.”

With that, he urged Veronica down the hallway and into his dressing room. Reaching behind him with one hand he turned the lock while with the other he gathered her close and took possession of her mouth.

It took only a split second before she was kissing him back and tugging at his t-shirt. He released her long enough for her to remove it. While her hands coasted down his biceps and over his chest his fingers closed on the tab of the zipper on her vest and tugged. His brows rose in surprise when it started to open.

“I thought that was just for decoration.”

“How did you think I get it on and off?”

He just shrugged. He hadn’t thought that far...and didn’t really care. In fact, all thoughts of clothing functionality left his brain at the sight of her breasts, displayed for his delectation in red lace.

“Is this for me?”

She didn’t like the knowing tone in his voice – or the smirk on his face in these circumstances. She sniffed and turned away. “Maybe, but since you don’t like it....”

The hard arm curving around her waist stopped her retreat and pulled her back against an equally hard chest. His breath was hot in her ear. “Oh no you don’t. Come back here. You’re not going anywhere. I have plans for you sugar.” Lips tugged on her earlobe. “You know that red’s my favourite colour on you.”

His free hand came up to cup a breast and gently knead, thumb rubbing her nipple. When her body responded to his teasing he lightly pinched her stiffening peak. His other hand smoothed over her stomach to the fastening of her jeans.

“Is it a matched set?” He watched in the mirror as the button popped open and he lowered the zipper to reveal another splash of red. “Aaah...it is!”

Veronica moaned at the sight and feel of his fingers on her breast and stroking her over the already damp silk and lace between her legs. She gripped his forearm with one hand and sank the other in his sweaty mane. Her head tipped to the side to give him free access, which he took advantage of immediately, nipping and nuzzling the sensitive skin of her neck and ear.

After a few minutes of tame teasing, Jon flicked open the front closure of her bra and slid the fingers of his other hand under her panties until there was nothing between his hands and her flesh.

“I love the red, but I like you best in nothing at all.” He bit harder on the spot where her neck met her shoulder and spread the moist evidence of her arousal along her cleft, pausing to rub the now swollen nub at the top.

For long minutes they both watched in the mirror as his hands played with her body. Suddenly Veronica couldn’t take it anymore and turned her head to meld her lips to his, tongue thrusting deep, urging his to join the play.

He didn’t have to be asked twice. Mouths mating, he felt her hips push against his hand and obliged, sliding a finger inside her. This time her moan was swallowed by their kiss, but the more insistent thrust of her hips got her point across. Jon added a second finger, reached deeper and stroked.

Veronica was lost in a sea of sensation. The wiring between her heated core, her breasts and the pleasure centres of her brain was working just fine. But as much as she loved what he was doing, it wasn’t enough. She didn’t want his teasing fingers, she wanted him. Feeling his erection pressing against her ass, she pressed back and swivelled her hips to rub against him.

Jon groaned, but agreed. Enough playing. He couldn’t wait anymore either. But he didn’t want to give up the view he was enjoying. The chair caught his eye and a memory flashed across his mind.

He broke the kiss to murmur against her lips. “Do you remember Amsterdam?”

It took a moment for Veronica’s mind to clear enough to understand the question. A glance around the room took in the mirror and the chair sitting in front of it, and she understood what he meant.

“Yes.” It was both answer and permission.

Jon urged her forward until they reached the chair, then positioned it properly for what they needed, facing the mirror, the back against Veronica’s hips. Taking a step back, he reached for her jeans and panties, stripping them off her hips in one smooth movement.

Veronica took a deep breath and bent over the back of the chair, bracing her hands on the seat.

For a long minute Jon just took in the sight she presented, letting his hand caress the firm globes of her ass. But his body wouldn’t let him delay. Undoing his pants and shoving them out of the way, he fit himself to her and penetrated her quickly and deeply. He froze at her cry.

“Okay? Did I hurt you?”

She could barely make out the growled words. She shook her head. “No. I’m fine, only....more Johnny, I need more!”

Gripping her hips, he started to thrust. Gently at first, but the feel of her hot moist channel fisting around him and the tableau they presented in the mirror soon had his control weakening and he increased his pace.

“Yes...Johnny...oh God!” The words came out in pants. She’d forgotten how deep he could get this way....and how good it felt. His fingers tightened in response to the point she was sure he was going to leave bruises, but she didn’t care. This was what she needed. “Don’t stop...Johnny....don’t stop. Mmmmmm. Oh God! Oh God!”

Lost to everything except sensation, he pounded into her. One part of his brain warned that he should be more careful, that he might hurt her, especially after he got a look at his face in the mirror. His eyes were slits, his face a deep red, sweat dripping off his nose and chin and glistening on his chest and arms. But he couldn’t stop. Something primitive took over and if anything, his thrusts got harder.

“Oh! Oh! Oh! Oh God! Oh God! Yes....Johnny....yesssss......yesssss...Oh! Mmmm...Oh God! JOHNNY!” Screaming his name, Veronica went rigid. Convulsions ripped through her body.

The sound of his name being torn from her throat was music to his ears. Hanging on to the last thread of his control, he rode through her spasms and only when her body started to relax did he finally let go and let his own release overtake him. “Nica!”

Jon locked his arms on the arms of the chair to keep from collapsing on top of Veronica and hurting her. For several minutes the only sound in the room was the rasp of their heavy breathing.

Finally, he gathered the strength to straighten and they both groaned as his now soft shaft slid from her body. “Damn sugar! I think we’re getting better with age!”

Veronica chuckled breathlessly and stood up. “I can’t argue with you. What is it you always say? Like fine wine?”

Jon snickered. “Yeah.” He glanced at the clock. “And Gretchen should approve.”

She snorted and swatted his arm. “Go have a shower, smartass.”

“Join me?”

“Uh uh. You first. If I join you we’ll never make the party.....and I’ll never hear the end of it.”

His bottom lip came out in a pout, but then reality set in. A chagrined smile twisted his mouth. “You obviously have more faith in my recovery time than I do.” He pulled her close and gave her a gentle, lingering kiss. “To be continued later then?”

She kissed him again. “Later.”

Chapter 85

Her friends’ words were still echoing in her head two days later as she was sitting in the interview room listening to the guys answer questions. Listening with one ear, her gaze never strayed far from Jon. Were they right? Was she subconsciously punishing him for what happened all those years ago? Was she being a coward? Even though she felt she was justified in wanting to wait until after Dubai to focus on the obstacles blocking their future, maybe she could give him a little bit more than she had so far.

As she sat there, watching him charm the reporter – one of her contacts – her eyes ate up the sight of him. The sparkle in the blue eyes, the line of his jaw, the way his Adam’s apple bobbed when he swallowed, the silvered chest hair visible at the open neck of his shirt. Looking at his hands, she remember how soft they were despite the calluses and how they felt on her skin. His tongue came out to lick his lips and she could taste him. Shivering involuntarily, she realized that even though it had only been two days, she’d missed him. She’d become so used to him always being nearby, it had felt like something was lacking when he wasn’t. Is it lust? Just physical? Or something else, something more....serious? She was afraid that she knew the answer, and she wasn’t ready to face that yet. Despite the years apart and the pain of the past, they’d reconnected very quickly, all the old feelings resurfacing without thought or effort. She had to continually guard against blindly falling into past routines. She couldn’t give in to him that easily. She had to keep a little distance between them....at least until she was sure of his sincerity....and whether she could trust him with her heart again. It hadn’t worked out so well the last time.

In between interviews, Veronica was surveying the refreshment table when Jon came up behind her and slid his arms around her waist. By the time the guys had arrived at the venue, there hadn’t been time for more than a quick kiss hello. He nuzzled under her ear. “How’s my cowgirl? Damn, sugar! Do you know what you in denim and leather does to me? Not to mention the boots?” She was wearing jeans, a black leather vest that zipped up the front, and black cowboy boots.

A throaty chuckle had his body hardening. Veronica turned her head, raised a hand to cup his cheek and pressed her lips to his in a lingering kiss. “Why do you think I wore them?”

He grinned gave her a squeeze. “Tease.”

“Is it working?”

He pressed his hips harder against her. “What do you think?”

“I think you have another couple hours of interviews before you can play.”

A growl rumbled deep in his throat. “Spoilsport.”

“Have patience. Anticipation will only make it better.”

“Right, and Sambora’s a virgin.” He retorted dryly.

Veronica snickered and leaned back even more against him and changed the subject. “How were the kids?”

Jon stilled, surprised that she brought up the subject. “Fine. Jake gave me his birthday wish list.”

“How long is it?”

“Three pages....double sided.”

“At least he’s giving you lots of choice.”



Across the room, the rest of the guys exchanged a look. Veronica hadn’t let Jon hold her like that in public since they’d found her again - even just in front of them. Hopefully things were getting better on that front.

A few minutes later, she kissed Jon again and left to bring in the next reporter. Richie raised a brow at Jon, who understood the unspoken question and shrugged. “I don’t know and I’m not sure I care. I’m not about to look a gift horse in the mouth.”

The others nodded.





“Sugar, how about you come help me pick out some clothes for tonight?” Jon caught Veronica’s eye. They were sitting with the guys in a nearby restaurant Veronica recommended, just finishing their dinner.

Veronica smiled, recognizing the look in his eye and what he really meant. “Jughead doesn’t like it when I visit your dressing room before a show.”

“That’s because by the time you’re finished, our fearless leader is a boneless puddle of goo, and we don’t have five hours for him to sleep and recuperate.” Richie explained. “Besides, we’re having guests tonight, remember?” Big and Rich and Gretchen were coming to the show.

“Yeah, wait until after the show, then it won’t matter if he’s a quivering, stuttering fool.” David added.

Veronica stared at them, trying to determine whether they were serious or merely yanking Jon’s chain – and hers.

Tico noticed. “Don’t get us wrong, we’re really happy for both of you, but people have paid a lot of money to see Jon run around the stage and shake his ass.....not stumble around in a post coital fog.”

Veronica felt her face flame and stole a glance at Jon, who had remained silent, a smirk twisting his lips. “Is that true? Do I do that to you?”

The smile widened into a grin and he winked at her. “You won’t hear me complaining sugar. You can wreck me anytime.” He could have added that she was the only one who could do that to him, but she didn’t need any more power over him than she already had. “Don’t listen to them honey, they’re just jealous.

Veronica glanced around the restaurant, then set her hand on Jon’s thigh under the table and squeezed gently. He covered her hand with his and squeezed back, the message in his eyes when they met hers very clear, and very personal.




Back at the arena, they were quickly surrounded by staff and friends. Veronica braced herself when Big and Rich arrived and was surprised when Big Kenny merely gave her a big hug and a brief kiss on the cheek before moving on to greet the guys. She didn’t notice him watching her interactions with Jon very carefully. Just before Gretchen arrived her phone started ringing with questions about the after party, so all she could do was wave.

A few minutes before the guys were to take the stage, Veronica took Big and Rich and Gretchen to where they could watch the show without being bothered too much, then rushed backstage to let Jon know. She found him in the hallway behind the stage.

“John, Kenny, and Gretchen are on the side where I usually stand. Are you bringing John and Kenny up with you for We Got it?”

“Yeah, that’s the plan. I’ll signal you the song before.” Without warning Jon pushed her up against the wall and pinned her there with his body. His lips captured hers in a fierce, sense stealing kiss. When he lifted his head, he rubbed her bottom lip with a thumb. “Be here when I come off stage.” At her raised brow he quickly added. “Please.”

She pretended to consider him. “We’ll see. It’ll depend on the mood I’m in. I might be bored and tired and just want to have a drink and hang out with Kenny.”

He snorted and narrowed his eyes. “I guess I’ll just have to make sure you’re not bored then won’t I?”

“Mmmmm.” She agreed and sauntered off to join her friends. Just before she disappeared she threw him a provocative look over her shoulder.

Jon watched her go and grinned. Something had brought about a warming of the atmosphere between them. He didn’t have a clue what it was, but he would do whatever he could to encourage it.