Veronica was in the kitchen late the next afternoon checking the spaghetti sauce when she heard the alarm system buzz, indicating that the gate was opening. Here comes reality.
They’d both gotten back to work that morning, after a leisurely shower together – just a shower, no playing since they were still recovering from the excess of the Blue Pill Adventure. They’d shared Jon’s office, exchanging frequent glances and soft looks during long phone calls. Several times she’d looked up from her keyboard to find him watching her. When she’d raised a questioning brow at him, he merely smiled, winked at her and picked up his phone.
By lunchtime they’d caught up on what they’d missed the day before, and since it was Sunday, Jon declared work finished for the day. The Soul were playing an away game and he wanted to watch it on T.V. He’d been pleasantly surprised when Veronica agreed to join him.
Veronica had hoped the game would distract her from thinking about the kids’ arrival. It worked – or rather watching Jon’s reactions as he lived and died with each play worked – to a point. As the afternoon wore on and the time of their expected arrival drew nearer, her nerves started to get the best of her. So she did what she always did when she needed to think, or calm herself...she headed for the kitchen.
And she was still there when the gate buzzed.
Closing her eyes she took a deep breath.
The scent of oregano and chocolate had lured Jon into the kitchen to see what she was up to, grinning when he saw the tray of cookies still warm from the oven. The sight of her tense body sent a pang through his chest.
Walking up behind her, he wrapped his arms around her and kissed her neck. “It’ll be okay sugar. Trust me.”
She sighed, leaned back against him and nodded.
He sniffed and looked into the pot. “Smells great. What else are we having?”
“Garlic bread and Cesar salad.”
“And cookies.”
“And cookies.” She agreed.
He reached to snag one, taking a big bite. “Mmmmm. You’re a great cook honey.”
“Thank you.”
The sound of the door opening prodded him to give her another squeeze, then leave to go meet his kids.
“DADDY! We’re back!” Jake yelled.
“So I see. Did you have a good time?” Jon asked as he sauntered into the foyer.
“Yep! Aunt Linda gave us hot dogs and chocolate cake and ice cream.”
“And we payed lots of games!” Romeo added as he held out a foot for his father to help him take off his shoes.
Jesse sniffed. “Is Molly back already?”
Jon shook his head. “No. Not until tomorrow.”
“But it smells like spaghetti sauce. Is Grandma here?”
“It is spaghetti sauce but no Grandma’s not here.” Jon debated about how to tell them.
Stephanie studied her father, noting his relaxed demeanour, the sparkle in his eyes and the soft smile curving his lips. It didn’t take her long to put two and two together. She’d only seen him like that once since the divorce. “Ronnie’s here!”
“What?!” Her brother’s exclaimed in unison.
“Really?” Jesse looked at his father.
Jon nodded and grinned. “Yeah. She’s in the kitchen.”
“YAY! COOKIES!” The youngest two took off running.
Jesse followed at a slower pace.
Stephanie smiled at her father.
His brow crooked. “What?”
“So have you finally figured out whether you’re dating or not?”
Jon laughed. “Yes, we are.” He watched her carefully. “Are you okay with that?”
She thought for a moment, then nodded. “If it will make you happy.”
“Thanks sweetie.” He hugged her, frowning slightly at the lack of enthusiasm in her response.
“Ronnie, Ronnie, you’re here!”
Veronica almost ended up on the floor as two small bodies hurtled into her. She caught herself on the counter. “Hi guys. How are you?”
“We good.” Romeo assured her.
“Did you make cookies?” Jake asked, his blue eyes wide and hopeful.
“Yes, Cookie Monster, I did.” She tweaked his nose. “But dinner’s just about ready and I think maybe we should keep the cookies until after. Okay?”
Two identical pouts appeared, but both little boys reluctantly agreed. She figured it was the sight and smell of the garlic bread she was taking out of the oven that persuaded them.
“Okay gang! Let’s eat!”
Very quickly they settled around the dining room table and dug in.
“Hey Ronnie? How about a game of Guitar Hero after dinner? We can kick Dad’s butt again.”
Veronica glanced at Jon who was scowling at his oldest son and smirked. “Sure Jesse.”
“How long are you staying?” Stephanie asked.
“Until we leave for Dubai.” Veronica answered. “I’ll have to go into the New York office a couple times, but the interviews I need to set up for your dad and stuff, I can do from here.“
“Oh. That’s nice.”
Jon watched his daughter and wondered what was going on in her head.
After dinner they all carried their dishes into the kitchen.
“Can we have cookies now? Please?” Jake spoke for the group.
“Yes, it’s cookie time.” Veronica took the lid off the cookie jar and held it out. “Here you go.” She moved it around so that Romeo was the last and set it aside without letting him get one. With her hand behind her back she crouched down to his level. “I have a special cookie for the big boy who learned to do up his own shoes.”
Romeo’s eyes grew huge and round as her hand came out to reveal a cookie as big as her hand with Smarties arranged on the top to form the letter R. He looked back and forth between the cookie and the lady who’d made it for him. Reaching out, he slowly took the cookie and just stared at it for a long minute. Suddenly, he threw his arms around her neck. “Tank you!”
Veronica froze for a second then carefully hugged him back. “You’re welcome.”
“Okay guys, go get the game set up while I help Ronnie clean up.” Jon could see that she was trying to hold it together.”
“I’ll help her.” Stephanie offered.
“It’s okay Steph, I’ve got it thanks. Why don’t you and Jesse take some drinks in for everyone?” Jon handed over some cans of pop and urged the kids out of the kitchen.
Stephanie was the last to go, her gaze resting on Veronica where she stood by the sink, her back to them.
Once they were alone, Jon stepped up behind Veronica and wrapped his arms around her. “Nice job with the cookie.” He paused. “Are you okay?”
With a tiny cry, she turned in his arms, her own sliding up over his shoulders. She buried her face in his neck and clung.
He could feel the trembling of her body and hugged her tighter, one hand rising to stroke her hair. “Hey sweetheart...it’s okay. Sshh.”
“God it hurts!”
“I know...I know sugar. Hang in there, it’ll get easier.”
She raised her head to look into his eyes. “I hope you’re right.” She sniffed and tried to smile. “At least it can’t get any worse.”
Jon gave her a squeeze. “You’re doing great. And I’m right. You’ll see.” He kissed her gently. “I’m very proud of you. Lean on me when you need to. I’ll help you anyway I can.”
Veronica blew out a shaky breath and nodded before stepping back and turning to the sink and the waiting dishes. “Come on, you said you’d help me clean up. The sooner we get it done the sooner Jesse and I can kick your ass.”
“Pretty big words there sugar, sure you can back them up?”
“No problem. I’ve already done it once if you remember.” She eyed him where he stood leaning against the island, showing no signs of picking up a dish. “Delaying it won’t change the outcome, you know.”
“Yeah, yeah, yeah. We’ll see. If we were alone I’d suggest a little wager to make it interesting.” He started putting food away in the fridge.
“If we were alone I somehow doubt we’d be playing Guitar Hero.”
“True. There’s more fun games to play.” Puckering his lips, he waggled his eyebrows at her.
Shaking her head she tossed the bag of lettuce at him.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Chapter 93
Bright sun streaming through the window, sending golden rays across the bed woke Veronica the next morning. She rolled onto her back and groaned as her muscles protested the movement. Her body felt battered and bruised, and she couldn’t even complain. It had been her idea after all. The next time she got an idea like that she really should think it through better.
Jon heard her groan and turned his head towards her. “Morning. Coffee? Breakfast?”
“Morning. Only if I don’t have to move to get it.”
Leaning over, he kissed her still swollen lips gently, then rose slowly from the bed and made his way towards the bathroom, a whimper escaping him at every step. He returned just as slowly and collapsed on the bed. “Maybe later.”
She chuckled, took a deep breath and stood up, pausing to make sure her legs would support her before taking her turn in the bathroom. Emerging, she found him curled into an almost fetal position. She would have felt guilty if she wasn’t in pain herself. Her stomach growled, protesting the lack of dinner the night before and breakfast yet this morning. “Will Molly be here yet?”
“No, she’s off this weekend.”
A glance around the room reminded her that her suitcase was still downstairs. A splash of colour visible at the corner of her eye had her turning in that direction. Spying Jon’s discarded shirt, she moved slowly, carefully, unable to hold back a slight groan as she bent and picked it up. Pulling it on, she went in search of sustenance.
In the kitchen, she leaned against the counter for several breaths, and waited for the throbbing aches to subside from her less than comfortable trip down the stairs. While bacon hissed and spluttered in the frying pan she thought about the events of the night before. A shiver ran down her spine and a slow smile curved her lips at the lurid memories. It wasn’t something that she’d want to do often – her body wasn’t up to that – but it was definitely a memorable experience, and one she had to admit she was glad she’d gotten. She wouldn’t call it lovemaking – it was sex, pure and simple – yet....there was some feeling involved. In the reason behind it, if not in the act itself. It told her that Jon.....cared for her...a lot. Her mind shied away from going any further down that road. She wasn’t ready for that yet.
Loading a tray with scrambled eggs, bacon, toast, juice and coffee, she started to pick it up, then sat it down again. With a smirk she opened the freezer, took out a bag of frozen peas and added it to the tray.
Jon dragged himself from the bed to open the window. The room reeked of sex and needed a good airing out. Taking a deep breath of fresh air, he let his mind wander back to the night before. It was beyond anything he’d ever experienced before. He couldn’t deny enjoying it, but he didn’t think he’d want to try it again anytime soon. He didn’t like the feeling of being unable to control his body...and he hadn’t been this sore and....sensitive...from sex in....forever! Sex with Ronnie had always been exciting and incredibly pleasurable, but the previous night had been over the top. Good thing I cleared my schedule for today. I don’t think I’m up for much beyond bed or couch!
He turned and hobbled back to the bed, shaking his head at his own condition. As he tried to find a comfortable position, the rattling of the doorknob had him looking in that direction and sitting up in time to see Veronica enter with their breakfast. The gentleman in him wanted to get up and help, especially since her discomfort was written all over her face with every step, but the sight of her in his shirt – and nothing else – caused a slight stirring in his groin that he couldn’t believe was possible and it was all he could do not to whimper at the pain that followed.
Handing him the tray, Veronica flopped face down on the bed beside him with a groan.
“Why did I let you talk me into that?” He stroked her hair.
She snorted. “I don’t remember having to do much talking. I just mentioned it once. I’m not taking all the blame for this.”
“Still I think I’ve earned a night of ......playing...with the toy.”
She groaned, but fair was fair. “As long as it’s not tonight.”
As much as he wanted to tease her, he was afraid she might call his bluff just to prove it was a bluff. “Good God no! I’m not up to that just yet!” Jon shuddered at the thought and surveyed the food she’d prepared. “What are the peas for?”
Her answer was to roll onto her side, grab the bag and place it between his legs. “Pain relief.”
Breath hissed through his teeth at the cold on his sensitive, chafed skin. Even through the blanket covering him it was a shock. “Fuck! That’s cold!”
“Most things out of the freezer usually are.” She reached to pick up a piece of toast and bit into it.
“Smartass.” As the initial shock subsided, he found that it actually did feel better. “Eat before it gets cold. Here, I’ll help you sit up.”
Veronica grabbed his hand before he could put action to the words. “Now who’s being a smartass?”
It took a minute for the meaning behind her comment to sink in, then he grinned. “Oh...right. Well, there’s got to be a more comfortable position for you.” He glanced around the bed. “Here, lie back on these.”
She looked at the pillows he’d piled up and shifted until she was half reclining against them. It still wouldn’t be as easy to eat as sitting fully upright, but it wasn’t as painful either.
“How’s that? Okay?” Concern and rueful sympathy filled his expression. He held up the peas. “Need these?”
She chuckled. “No, I’m okay. Thanks.”
“Good. Now eat.”
A forkful of scrambled eggs appeared in front of her mouth. She hesitated, her independent nature rebelling against letting him – letting anyone – do for her what she could do for herself.
Something of her thoughts must have shown in her face – or maybe he just knew her that well, because he smiled gently and chided her. “Come on Nica, let go a little. Let me take care of you, just a little bit.” Blue eyes bore into violet, the plea as evident there as it was in his whisper. “Please.”
The yearning for what he was offering was too strong to resist. She opened her mouth and let him feed her.
For the next twenty minutes, the silence of the room was broken only by requests and offers of bites and sips. When they’d had their fill and the tray was empty, Jon set it aside and slid down to lie next to Veronica. Picking up the T.V. remote, he lifted his arm inviting her to come closer.
Veronica accepted and curled up against him, her head settling on his shoulder, her hand on his chest, fingers idly combing and tangling with his fur. The feel of his arm sliding around her, holding her securely to his side, fingertips trailing lightly over her hip, relaxed her even more and she found herself dozing.
Several hours later, the growling of his stomach woke her. Tipping her face towards his, she grinned. “Lunch is yours. I made breakfast, and I know I’ll have to do dinner.”
“We could order in.”
“But then I’d have to get dressed or hide from the delivery guy. I’m feeling very lazy today. Can’t imagine why.”
Jon chuckled and pressed a kiss to her forehead. “I know exactly how you feel.” When his stomach growled again, he sighed and sat up. “Sandwich okay?”
“Sounds good.”
It was mid afternoon before they finally made it downstairs for more than food, but it was mainly to trade bed for couch. Even the warm sunshine glistening off the Navesink couldn’t tempt her. Regardless of the message it might send to Jon, all she wanted to do was curl up with him and soak up his nearness...forget about the past...forget about Vince and Keith and petty jealousies...forget about everything outside this house.
Jon sat on a stool at the kitchen’s island and watched Veronica prepare dinner. He’d tried to help, but she’d finally pointed at the stool and told him to sit, he was only in the way. He wasn’t offended. He knew he was next to useless in the kitchen. Besides, he much preferred watching her. It was obvious that she was completely at ease in a kitchen, and just as obvious that she was completely at ease in his kitchen....and he loved it.
Their conversation was comfortable and flowed easily. By unspoken agreement, they avoided all talk of work or his family. Anything else was fair game. Both spoke honestly and without hesitation, completely open with each other....something that they badly needed to do if the relationship was going to stand a chance.
It wasn’t until they finished dinner, cleaned up and were settled on the couch together again that realization hit Veronica. She turned her head from her position seated between his thighs to look over her shoulder at his face.
“Your phone hasn’t rung all day. What gives?”
A calloused fingertip rose to trace a feminine eyebrow and down her nose. “I told everyone I was taking the day off and didn’t want to be disturbed today. Then I shut off my phone.” At her astonished look he continued. “I wanted today to be just about us...for us...no distractions.” His brow crooked. “I noticed that your phone hasn’t rung either, and you haven’t even tried to touch your laptop. How come?”
Her eyes filled at his words....that he would put her before his work, even if it was just for one day. Maybe he had learned something! At the very least it signified some pretty serious feelings. She lifted a hand to caress his cheek and jawline, feeling his stubble prickle against her fingers. Because I promised I’d try. “Because I wanted to escape and shut out the world and truly relax....just for a little while.”
He bent his head until he could press his lips to hers in a gentle, but thorough kiss. “Thank you. I....” He bit off the words that wanted to tumble out. He didn’t know why she suddenly was willing to cuddle with him and interact like a normal couple, whether it was because of the previous night, or some other reason - but they were finally making progress and he didn’t want to scare her and make her retreat. “I appreciate that. I think we both needed the break from the madness of our lives.”
Veronica nodded and leaned back against him, rubbing her hands over his arms when they squeezed her. “Mmmhmmm.”
She would enjoy the rest of the day – enjoy him - and live in this fantasy for a little while longer. Tomorrow would be soon enough to return to reality.
Jon heard her groan and turned his head towards her. “Morning. Coffee? Breakfast?”
“Morning. Only if I don’t have to move to get it.”
Leaning over, he kissed her still swollen lips gently, then rose slowly from the bed and made his way towards the bathroom, a whimper escaping him at every step. He returned just as slowly and collapsed on the bed. “Maybe later.”
She chuckled, took a deep breath and stood up, pausing to make sure her legs would support her before taking her turn in the bathroom. Emerging, she found him curled into an almost fetal position. She would have felt guilty if she wasn’t in pain herself. Her stomach growled, protesting the lack of dinner the night before and breakfast yet this morning. “Will Molly be here yet?”
“No, she’s off this weekend.”
A glance around the room reminded her that her suitcase was still downstairs. A splash of colour visible at the corner of her eye had her turning in that direction. Spying Jon’s discarded shirt, she moved slowly, carefully, unable to hold back a slight groan as she bent and picked it up. Pulling it on, she went in search of sustenance.
In the kitchen, she leaned against the counter for several breaths, and waited for the throbbing aches to subside from her less than comfortable trip down the stairs. While bacon hissed and spluttered in the frying pan she thought about the events of the night before. A shiver ran down her spine and a slow smile curved her lips at the lurid memories. It wasn’t something that she’d want to do often – her body wasn’t up to that – but it was definitely a memorable experience, and one she had to admit she was glad she’d gotten. She wouldn’t call it lovemaking – it was sex, pure and simple – yet....there was some feeling involved. In the reason behind it, if not in the act itself. It told her that Jon.....cared for her...a lot. Her mind shied away from going any further down that road. She wasn’t ready for that yet.
Loading a tray with scrambled eggs, bacon, toast, juice and coffee, she started to pick it up, then sat it down again. With a smirk she opened the freezer, took out a bag of frozen peas and added it to the tray.
Jon dragged himself from the bed to open the window. The room reeked of sex and needed a good airing out. Taking a deep breath of fresh air, he let his mind wander back to the night before. It was beyond anything he’d ever experienced before. He couldn’t deny enjoying it, but he didn’t think he’d want to try it again anytime soon. He didn’t like the feeling of being unable to control his body...and he hadn’t been this sore and....sensitive...from sex in....forever! Sex with Ronnie had always been exciting and incredibly pleasurable, but the previous night had been over the top. Good thing I cleared my schedule for today. I don’t think I’m up for much beyond bed or couch!
He turned and hobbled back to the bed, shaking his head at his own condition. As he tried to find a comfortable position, the rattling of the doorknob had him looking in that direction and sitting up in time to see Veronica enter with their breakfast. The gentleman in him wanted to get up and help, especially since her discomfort was written all over her face with every step, but the sight of her in his shirt – and nothing else – caused a slight stirring in his groin that he couldn’t believe was possible and it was all he could do not to whimper at the pain that followed.
Handing him the tray, Veronica flopped face down on the bed beside him with a groan.
“Why did I let you talk me into that?” He stroked her hair.
She snorted. “I don’t remember having to do much talking. I just mentioned it once. I’m not taking all the blame for this.”
“Still I think I’ve earned a night of ......playing...with the toy.”
She groaned, but fair was fair. “As long as it’s not tonight.”
As much as he wanted to tease her, he was afraid she might call his bluff just to prove it was a bluff. “Good God no! I’m not up to that just yet!” Jon shuddered at the thought and surveyed the food she’d prepared. “What are the peas for?”
Her answer was to roll onto her side, grab the bag and place it between his legs. “Pain relief.”
Breath hissed through his teeth at the cold on his sensitive, chafed skin. Even through the blanket covering him it was a shock. “Fuck! That’s cold!”
“Most things out of the freezer usually are.” She reached to pick up a piece of toast and bit into it.
“Smartass.” As the initial shock subsided, he found that it actually did feel better. “Eat before it gets cold. Here, I’ll help you sit up.”
Veronica grabbed his hand before he could put action to the words. “Now who’s being a smartass?”
It took a minute for the meaning behind her comment to sink in, then he grinned. “Oh...right. Well, there’s got to be a more comfortable position for you.” He glanced around the bed. “Here, lie back on these.”
She looked at the pillows he’d piled up and shifted until she was half reclining against them. It still wouldn’t be as easy to eat as sitting fully upright, but it wasn’t as painful either.
“How’s that? Okay?” Concern and rueful sympathy filled his expression. He held up the peas. “Need these?”
She chuckled. “No, I’m okay. Thanks.”
“Good. Now eat.”
A forkful of scrambled eggs appeared in front of her mouth. She hesitated, her independent nature rebelling against letting him – letting anyone – do for her what she could do for herself.
Something of her thoughts must have shown in her face – or maybe he just knew her that well, because he smiled gently and chided her. “Come on Nica, let go a little. Let me take care of you, just a little bit.” Blue eyes bore into violet, the plea as evident there as it was in his whisper. “Please.”
The yearning for what he was offering was too strong to resist. She opened her mouth and let him feed her.
For the next twenty minutes, the silence of the room was broken only by requests and offers of bites and sips. When they’d had their fill and the tray was empty, Jon set it aside and slid down to lie next to Veronica. Picking up the T.V. remote, he lifted his arm inviting her to come closer.
Veronica accepted and curled up against him, her head settling on his shoulder, her hand on his chest, fingers idly combing and tangling with his fur. The feel of his arm sliding around her, holding her securely to his side, fingertips trailing lightly over her hip, relaxed her even more and she found herself dozing.
Several hours later, the growling of his stomach woke her. Tipping her face towards his, she grinned. “Lunch is yours. I made breakfast, and I know I’ll have to do dinner.”
“We could order in.”
“But then I’d have to get dressed or hide from the delivery guy. I’m feeling very lazy today. Can’t imagine why.”
Jon chuckled and pressed a kiss to her forehead. “I know exactly how you feel.” When his stomach growled again, he sighed and sat up. “Sandwich okay?”
“Sounds good.”
It was mid afternoon before they finally made it downstairs for more than food, but it was mainly to trade bed for couch. Even the warm sunshine glistening off the Navesink couldn’t tempt her. Regardless of the message it might send to Jon, all she wanted to do was curl up with him and soak up his nearness...forget about the past...forget about Vince and Keith and petty jealousies...forget about everything outside this house.
Jon sat on a stool at the kitchen’s island and watched Veronica prepare dinner. He’d tried to help, but she’d finally pointed at the stool and told him to sit, he was only in the way. He wasn’t offended. He knew he was next to useless in the kitchen. Besides, he much preferred watching her. It was obvious that she was completely at ease in a kitchen, and just as obvious that she was completely at ease in his kitchen....and he loved it.
Their conversation was comfortable and flowed easily. By unspoken agreement, they avoided all talk of work or his family. Anything else was fair game. Both spoke honestly and without hesitation, completely open with each other....something that they badly needed to do if the relationship was going to stand a chance.
It wasn’t until they finished dinner, cleaned up and were settled on the couch together again that realization hit Veronica. She turned her head from her position seated between his thighs to look over her shoulder at his face.
“Your phone hasn’t rung all day. What gives?”
A calloused fingertip rose to trace a feminine eyebrow and down her nose. “I told everyone I was taking the day off and didn’t want to be disturbed today. Then I shut off my phone.” At her astonished look he continued. “I wanted today to be just about us...for us...no distractions.” His brow crooked. “I noticed that your phone hasn’t rung either, and you haven’t even tried to touch your laptop. How come?”
Her eyes filled at his words....that he would put her before his work, even if it was just for one day. Maybe he had learned something! At the very least it signified some pretty serious feelings. She lifted a hand to caress his cheek and jawline, feeling his stubble prickle against her fingers. Because I promised I’d try. “Because I wanted to escape and shut out the world and truly relax....just for a little while.”
He bent his head until he could press his lips to hers in a gentle, but thorough kiss. “Thank you. I....” He bit off the words that wanted to tumble out. He didn’t know why she suddenly was willing to cuddle with him and interact like a normal couple, whether it was because of the previous night, or some other reason - but they were finally making progress and he didn’t want to scare her and make her retreat. “I appreciate that. I think we both needed the break from the madness of our lives.”
Veronica nodded and leaned back against him, rubbing her hands over his arms when they squeezed her. “Mmmhmmm.”
She would enjoy the rest of the day – enjoy him - and live in this fantasy for a little while longer. Tomorrow would be soon enough to return to reality.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Chapter 92
As he rushed up the stairs, Veronica uttered a small shriek, turned and ran down the hallway to duck into his bedroom. Following on her heels, Jon closed the door and leaned back against it for a moment, his gaze roaming over her where she stood beside the turned down bed. He would have liked to look longer, but his body told him that that there wasn’t time. Stepping towards her, he started stripping off his clothes, shirt first, followed by pants – he was already barefoot.
Veronica was reminded of a sleek leopard as he moved closer. Distracted from her own disrobing she could only eat up the sight of his body as it emerged from its cloth covering. She sucked in a deep breath at the evidence of the pill’s effect. “Wow.”
Jon grunted, his hands quickly finished rendering her as naked as he was and urged her onto the bed. Joining her, he nudged her legs apart and settled himself in between. The tip of his shaft probed her opening, checking her readiness. He didn’t need to worry – she was drenched. He entered her slowly, cautiously, conscious of the fact that he’d never been harder in his life and he didn’t want to hurt her.
“Oh!”
He froze. “Are you okay? Did I hurt you?”
“No.” She shook her head. “God no! Don’t stop Johnny.”
He let out a relieved breath at her response. The truth was he wasn’t sure he could stop. Bracing himself on his elbows, he bent his head to take tender possession of her mouth and began to thrust. At first he kept his movements slow and gentle, until her hips lifted to meet his and her body flowed easily around the hard pillar of flesh imbedded within her . Then he picked up speed, his tongue tasted deeply, mimicking the movements of his lower body.
“Mmmmmm.” Veronica moaned. Beyond the physical sensations of what he was doing to her, the idea that he did this for her, because of a passing comment she made, caused warm mushy feelings to swirl in her core. Ever since she heard about Viagra she was curious about what the effect would be, but the men she’d been with either refused and resented the inference that they needed help, or the thought of a marathon sex session with them just didn’t appeal. She was a little surprised that Jon had not only agreed, but followed through, although if she thought about it, she shouldn’t have been. He’d always been willing to experiment.
As her passion rose she was forced to break the kiss in order to suck in much needed oxygen. “Oh God! Mmmm, yes Johnny!”
Jon just buried his mouth in her neck, groaned and thrust harder.
Within minutes, she reached her peak, her cries echoing around the room. “JOHNNY!”
Jon felt her clench around him and slowed his thrusts to ride out her storm, but didn’t stop. He couldn’t. No matter how much pleasure was shooting through his system, shortening his breath and making his pulse race, it wasn’t enough. He couldn’t seem to get close enough...deep enough. Lowering his chest down onto hers, he slid his hands under her hips and lifted her into his downstroke.
Veronica, her body still recovering from her orgasm, geared up to experience it again. All she could do was wrap her arms and legs around him and hold on. “Oh God!”
Jon barely heard her, his focus on sensation. His breath rasped in his chest, sweat dripped from his nose and chin. But it still wasn’t enough, that ultimate peak of pleasure seemed to stay just beyond his reach, no matter how fast or deep or hard he plumbed her depths.
“Oh..oh...oh....OOOOOHHHH!” She climaxed again.
Feeling the shudders racking her body, out of breath himself, Jon stopped and rolled onto his back, his arms wrapped around her taking her with him. For several minutes they lay still, and concentrated on just breathing.
But Jon couldn’t wait for long, and his hands roaming her back went from soothing to caressing with the intent to arouse.
Veronica blew out a breath and, feeling him still hard within her, slowly sat up. As his hands slid over her hips she started to rock against him. Her eyes locked with his and the blatant desire visible on his flushed face called to a similar feeling inside her.
Jon stroked her thighs and up her sides to cup her breasts. As he caressed and kneaded her softness and teased and rubbed her rapidly hardening nipples, he watched the emotions crossing her features.
As her desire rose, she rocked harder and higher, her eyes closed and her head fell back. Her hands stroked his chest, then clenched in the firm muscle to brace herself against the strength of the sensations zinging through her nerve endings.
“Lean back.” It was a growled command.
When she complied, settling her hands on his upper knees, giving him an unobstructed view – and access – to her torso, he took immediate advantage. While one hand stayed on a breast, tweaking a hard peak and tugging on it lightly, the other smoothed down over her stomach to stroke and rub the hard nub of her clit. As she gasped and moaned, he watched her writhe above him, easily the most beautiful sight he’d ever seen. Sensing she was close, feeling her tighten around him, he rose up to take a taut nipple into his mouth and suckle.
“Oh!” Veronica cried out and sat up straighter, her arms wrapping around his head to hold him close.
His hands slipped on her sweat covered hips as he raised and lowered her on his aching shaft.
“Oh God...yes...yes....yes...oh..oh..” She panted, then screamed as her orgasm swept over her.
Jon didn’t give her any time to recover. He couldn’t. A quick roll reversed their positions and he was once again hovering over her, still buried hard and deep inside her. He could barely breathe, his heart felt like it was going to burst, but still his own climax stayed just out of reach. He was beginning to wonder if this was normal or if he was experiencing one of the side affects his doctor had warned him about when he’d given him the pill. After determining that Jon wasn’t having....difficulties...he correctly presumed that he was looking for a little fun and adventure, smirked, warned him of the consequences and would only give him one pill.
Almost desperate for release at this point, he lifted her legs onto his shoulders, gripped her hips and pounded into her.
“Jesus!” Veronica gasped, shocked to feel her body rev up again. Her hands clenched around the sheet and she hoped she’d survive the night.
Jon thrust harder and faster, his rhythm almost frantic. This time when her body went rigid and clamped down on him, he finally broke and exploded inside her in the most incredible orgasm he’d ever experienced. He actually saw spots and was sure the top of his head had blown off. “NICA!”
He collapsed on her, struggling for breath and waited to see if he was still alive.
“Wow!” The sound was no more than a whisper – she wasn’t capable of anything more. It was several minutes before she even had the strength to move enough to kiss his shoulder.
Groaning, Jon finally managed to disengage and roll off of her onto his back, both of them chuckling at the sucking sound of their sweat soaked bodies separating.
“I need a shower.” Veronica commented. “As soon as I can move that is.”
“Uh huh.” Speech was still beyond him.
A few minutes later, Veronica rose and, wincing slightly, made her way into the bathroom.
Jon watched her go, then groaned at the feel of his body hardening again. “Oh fuck!”
Veronica stood under the main showerhead, eyes closed, letting the hot, soothing water rain down on her when the glass door opened and a draft of cool air swept over her. She didn’t open her eyes to look at him. “Coming to join me?”
“Mmmhmmm.” Picking up the bottle of shampoo, he poured some into his hand and sank both of them into her dark mane.
“Mmmmm.” She relaxed back against him and enjoyed the feel of his hands on her scalp. God how she’d missed this! He was the best at washing hair, knowing just how much pressure to use and how to scrub and massage her scalp at the same time. He used to joke that it was one of the best skills his father had taught him.
Shifting with his movements, as he rinsed her hair, their lower bodies came into contact, and she sucked in a sharp breath. She turned her head, glanced down to see if she’d felt what she’d thought she felt, then up at his face. “Are you serious? You can’t be!”
He grimaced. “Don’t blame me this was your idea.”
She considered him for a long moment. She didn’t think her body could take any more, but she did start this and she couldn’t leave him to suffer. Setting her hands on his chest, she sank to her knees, caressing his body as she went. One hand closed around his erection, stroking and squeezing, the other cupped his sac.
Jon spread his legs further apart, braced his hands on the walls and watched her.
Veronica pumped him for several minutes, then brought her mouth into play. She slowly licked his length from base to tip several times before dipping lower and sucking first one ball, then the other, rubbing her thumb over the swollen head at the same time. Releasing his sac, she raised up a little and ran her tongue under the ridge and over the head, scraping lightly with her teeth.
Jon groaned. “Fuck!”
She chuckled. “Like that huh?”
“Mmmm.” His moaning agreement was all he could manage – she’d taken him into her mouth and was in the process of swallowing him whole.
She took him in, and released him, over and over, sucking lightly at first, then harder and harder. But while his moans told her that he was enjoying it, he didn’t break. She tried pushing on the spot behind his sac that usually worked, and every other trick she knew, but with no luck. When her cheek muscles got tired, she sat back on her heels to rest for a minute.
Jon reached down and pulled her to her feet. “Sorry sugar, but that’s not gonna do it tonight.”
He turned her to face away from him and flipped the switch and adjusted the various heads until they sent pulsing streams of water over the parts of her body he wanted. Nuzzling below her ear, he cupped her breasts and caressed them until her nipples stood up for him. Next he sent them roaming her abdomen and hips, then one slid between her legs to stroke her cleft. “Sore?”
Veronica shook her head, a shiver running down her spine at the feel of his hot breath in her ear and his lips sucking the lobe.
Using both hands, he pulled back her swollen folds, exposing her to a direct stream of water.
“Oh!” She tried to move away, the sensation too intense, but he held her still. Within minutes she experienced another orgasm.
Her tremors hadn’t subsided yet when Jon bent her forward and slid into her from behind.
“Oh God.”
He held still. “You okay? Does it hurt?”
She just shook her head and reached out to brace her hands against the wall.
Reassured, he started to move, his strokes steady and rhythmic. The sound of the running water drowned out their sighs, moans and panting breaths. This time when she came, Jon had to hold her up as her legs wobbled and threatened to give way. Leaning her against the wall he quickly washed them both, turned off the water and stepped out of the shower to grab towels.
Veronica silently watched him dry first himself, then her, his erection undiminished. The experience had turned out to be more than she had bargained for, and obviously it wasn’t over yet. She couldn’t fault the exquisite pleasure though. It was definitely a night she’d never forget!
Jon searched her eyes. “You okay?” When she nodded, he lifted her into his arms and carried her back into the bedroom, gently laying her on the bed. “Turn over.”
Taking a deep breath, she obeyed, her heart pounding when he raised her hips and slid a puffy pillow under them. She knew what was coming.
He lowered himself over her, positioned himself, and slid deep. They both groaned. Reaching up, he laced his fingers with hers and flexed his hips.
Veronica could do nothing but absorb his rocking thrusts. She had no strength left to do anything more. Once....twice......three times he brought her to the height of pleasure before finally....finally... finding his own.
Jon collapsed on her back, feeling the spasms shaking her body, his own muscles trembling. He’d never felt anything like it before.
“No...no more...please.” She couldn’t take anymore. She was exhausted.
He consulted his body, and was relieved to be able to agree with her. “No more. I’m done.”
Jon slowly withdrew from her body, wincing slightly. He managed to pull the blankets up over them and turn off the light before flopping down bedside her. They were asleep in seconds.
Veronica was reminded of a sleek leopard as he moved closer. Distracted from her own disrobing she could only eat up the sight of his body as it emerged from its cloth covering. She sucked in a deep breath at the evidence of the pill’s effect. “Wow.”
Jon grunted, his hands quickly finished rendering her as naked as he was and urged her onto the bed. Joining her, he nudged her legs apart and settled himself in between. The tip of his shaft probed her opening, checking her readiness. He didn’t need to worry – she was drenched. He entered her slowly, cautiously, conscious of the fact that he’d never been harder in his life and he didn’t want to hurt her.
“Oh!”
He froze. “Are you okay? Did I hurt you?”
“No.” She shook her head. “God no! Don’t stop Johnny.”
He let out a relieved breath at her response. The truth was he wasn’t sure he could stop. Bracing himself on his elbows, he bent his head to take tender possession of her mouth and began to thrust. At first he kept his movements slow and gentle, until her hips lifted to meet his and her body flowed easily around the hard pillar of flesh imbedded within her . Then he picked up speed, his tongue tasted deeply, mimicking the movements of his lower body.
“Mmmmmm.” Veronica moaned. Beyond the physical sensations of what he was doing to her, the idea that he did this for her, because of a passing comment she made, caused warm mushy feelings to swirl in her core. Ever since she heard about Viagra she was curious about what the effect would be, but the men she’d been with either refused and resented the inference that they needed help, or the thought of a marathon sex session with them just didn’t appeal. She was a little surprised that Jon had not only agreed, but followed through, although if she thought about it, she shouldn’t have been. He’d always been willing to experiment.
As her passion rose she was forced to break the kiss in order to suck in much needed oxygen. “Oh God! Mmmm, yes Johnny!”
Jon just buried his mouth in her neck, groaned and thrust harder.
Within minutes, she reached her peak, her cries echoing around the room. “JOHNNY!”
Jon felt her clench around him and slowed his thrusts to ride out her storm, but didn’t stop. He couldn’t. No matter how much pleasure was shooting through his system, shortening his breath and making his pulse race, it wasn’t enough. He couldn’t seem to get close enough...deep enough. Lowering his chest down onto hers, he slid his hands under her hips and lifted her into his downstroke.
Veronica, her body still recovering from her orgasm, geared up to experience it again. All she could do was wrap her arms and legs around him and hold on. “Oh God!”
Jon barely heard her, his focus on sensation. His breath rasped in his chest, sweat dripped from his nose and chin. But it still wasn’t enough, that ultimate peak of pleasure seemed to stay just beyond his reach, no matter how fast or deep or hard he plumbed her depths.
“Oh..oh...oh....OOOOOHHHH!” She climaxed again.
Feeling the shudders racking her body, out of breath himself, Jon stopped and rolled onto his back, his arms wrapped around her taking her with him. For several minutes they lay still, and concentrated on just breathing.
But Jon couldn’t wait for long, and his hands roaming her back went from soothing to caressing with the intent to arouse.
Veronica blew out a breath and, feeling him still hard within her, slowly sat up. As his hands slid over her hips she started to rock against him. Her eyes locked with his and the blatant desire visible on his flushed face called to a similar feeling inside her.
Jon stroked her thighs and up her sides to cup her breasts. As he caressed and kneaded her softness and teased and rubbed her rapidly hardening nipples, he watched the emotions crossing her features.
As her desire rose, she rocked harder and higher, her eyes closed and her head fell back. Her hands stroked his chest, then clenched in the firm muscle to brace herself against the strength of the sensations zinging through her nerve endings.
“Lean back.” It was a growled command.
When she complied, settling her hands on his upper knees, giving him an unobstructed view – and access – to her torso, he took immediate advantage. While one hand stayed on a breast, tweaking a hard peak and tugging on it lightly, the other smoothed down over her stomach to stroke and rub the hard nub of her clit. As she gasped and moaned, he watched her writhe above him, easily the most beautiful sight he’d ever seen. Sensing she was close, feeling her tighten around him, he rose up to take a taut nipple into his mouth and suckle.
“Oh!” Veronica cried out and sat up straighter, her arms wrapping around his head to hold him close.
His hands slipped on her sweat covered hips as he raised and lowered her on his aching shaft.
“Oh God...yes...yes....yes...oh..oh..” She panted, then screamed as her orgasm swept over her.
Jon didn’t give her any time to recover. He couldn’t. A quick roll reversed their positions and he was once again hovering over her, still buried hard and deep inside her. He could barely breathe, his heart felt like it was going to burst, but still his own climax stayed just out of reach. He was beginning to wonder if this was normal or if he was experiencing one of the side affects his doctor had warned him about when he’d given him the pill. After determining that Jon wasn’t having....difficulties...he correctly presumed that he was looking for a little fun and adventure, smirked, warned him of the consequences and would only give him one pill.
Almost desperate for release at this point, he lifted her legs onto his shoulders, gripped her hips and pounded into her.
“Jesus!” Veronica gasped, shocked to feel her body rev up again. Her hands clenched around the sheet and she hoped she’d survive the night.
Jon thrust harder and faster, his rhythm almost frantic. This time when her body went rigid and clamped down on him, he finally broke and exploded inside her in the most incredible orgasm he’d ever experienced. He actually saw spots and was sure the top of his head had blown off. “NICA!”
He collapsed on her, struggling for breath and waited to see if he was still alive.
“Wow!” The sound was no more than a whisper – she wasn’t capable of anything more. It was several minutes before she even had the strength to move enough to kiss his shoulder.
Groaning, Jon finally managed to disengage and roll off of her onto his back, both of them chuckling at the sucking sound of their sweat soaked bodies separating.
“I need a shower.” Veronica commented. “As soon as I can move that is.”
“Uh huh.” Speech was still beyond him.
A few minutes later, Veronica rose and, wincing slightly, made her way into the bathroom.
Jon watched her go, then groaned at the feel of his body hardening again. “Oh fuck!”
Veronica stood under the main showerhead, eyes closed, letting the hot, soothing water rain down on her when the glass door opened and a draft of cool air swept over her. She didn’t open her eyes to look at him. “Coming to join me?”
“Mmmhmmm.” Picking up the bottle of shampoo, he poured some into his hand and sank both of them into her dark mane.
“Mmmmm.” She relaxed back against him and enjoyed the feel of his hands on her scalp. God how she’d missed this! He was the best at washing hair, knowing just how much pressure to use and how to scrub and massage her scalp at the same time. He used to joke that it was one of the best skills his father had taught him.
Shifting with his movements, as he rinsed her hair, their lower bodies came into contact, and she sucked in a sharp breath. She turned her head, glanced down to see if she’d felt what she’d thought she felt, then up at his face. “Are you serious? You can’t be!”
He grimaced. “Don’t blame me this was your idea.”
She considered him for a long moment. She didn’t think her body could take any more, but she did start this and she couldn’t leave him to suffer. Setting her hands on his chest, she sank to her knees, caressing his body as she went. One hand closed around his erection, stroking and squeezing, the other cupped his sac.
Jon spread his legs further apart, braced his hands on the walls and watched her.
Veronica pumped him for several minutes, then brought her mouth into play. She slowly licked his length from base to tip several times before dipping lower and sucking first one ball, then the other, rubbing her thumb over the swollen head at the same time. Releasing his sac, she raised up a little and ran her tongue under the ridge and over the head, scraping lightly with her teeth.
Jon groaned. “Fuck!”
She chuckled. “Like that huh?”
“Mmmm.” His moaning agreement was all he could manage – she’d taken him into her mouth and was in the process of swallowing him whole.
She took him in, and released him, over and over, sucking lightly at first, then harder and harder. But while his moans told her that he was enjoying it, he didn’t break. She tried pushing on the spot behind his sac that usually worked, and every other trick she knew, but with no luck. When her cheek muscles got tired, she sat back on her heels to rest for a minute.
Jon reached down and pulled her to her feet. “Sorry sugar, but that’s not gonna do it tonight.”
He turned her to face away from him and flipped the switch and adjusted the various heads until they sent pulsing streams of water over the parts of her body he wanted. Nuzzling below her ear, he cupped her breasts and caressed them until her nipples stood up for him. Next he sent them roaming her abdomen and hips, then one slid between her legs to stroke her cleft. “Sore?”
Veronica shook her head, a shiver running down her spine at the feel of his hot breath in her ear and his lips sucking the lobe.
Using both hands, he pulled back her swollen folds, exposing her to a direct stream of water.
“Oh!” She tried to move away, the sensation too intense, but he held her still. Within minutes she experienced another orgasm.
Her tremors hadn’t subsided yet when Jon bent her forward and slid into her from behind.
“Oh God.”
He held still. “You okay? Does it hurt?”
She just shook her head and reached out to brace her hands against the wall.
Reassured, he started to move, his strokes steady and rhythmic. The sound of the running water drowned out their sighs, moans and panting breaths. This time when she came, Jon had to hold her up as her legs wobbled and threatened to give way. Leaning her against the wall he quickly washed them both, turned off the water and stepped out of the shower to grab towels.
Veronica silently watched him dry first himself, then her, his erection undiminished. The experience had turned out to be more than she had bargained for, and obviously it wasn’t over yet. She couldn’t fault the exquisite pleasure though. It was definitely a night she’d never forget!
Jon searched her eyes. “You okay?” When she nodded, he lifted her into his arms and carried her back into the bedroom, gently laying her on the bed. “Turn over.”
Taking a deep breath, she obeyed, her heart pounding when he raised her hips and slid a puffy pillow under them. She knew what was coming.
He lowered himself over her, positioned himself, and slid deep. They both groaned. Reaching up, he laced his fingers with hers and flexed his hips.
Veronica could do nothing but absorb his rocking thrusts. She had no strength left to do anything more. Once....twice......three times he brought her to the height of pleasure before finally....finally... finding his own.
Jon collapsed on her back, feeling the spasms shaking her body, his own muscles trembling. He’d never felt anything like it before.
“No...no more...please.” She couldn’t take anymore. She was exhausted.
He consulted his body, and was relieved to be able to agree with her. “No more. I’m done.”
Jon slowly withdrew from her body, wincing slightly. He managed to pull the blankets up over them and turn off the light before flopping down bedside her. They were asleep in seconds.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Chapter 91
Jon watched Veronica closely. She’d been unusually quiet ever since the day they spent at the Torres’. After dinner she’d played with Hector for awhile, then disappeared. He’d found her walking the beach. When he’d asked her what she was doing she’d said she was waiting to watch the sunset. He’d sensed that there was more to it, but managed to suppress his almost overwhelming urge to push. Instead, he’d waited with her and held her while they’d silently watched the sinking yellow ball send fingers of orange and red over the water and land.
Now they were in Atlanta for the last show of this leg of the tour. Then they had a three week break until they headed halfway across the world for the much anticipated Dubai show and the start of the European leg. Three blessed, sleeping in his own bed, hanging with his kids, long, lonely without Nica, weeks.
He was just about at the end of his rope with her. He was frustrated and had run out of ideas. She wasn’t pushing him away, but she wasn’t exactly pulling him closer either. At one point he’d thought about giving up and letting her go. He’d even stayed away from her for most of a day. But the emotions he felt at the first sight of her told him that he would never be able to completely walk away from her.
But dammit, she had to meet him halfway! He’d tried to be patient, to let her set the pace, but as far as he could tell she wasn’t even trying! He knew they could be happy if she’d just try.
And now something was obviously bothering her and once again she was shutting him out. Standing in the doorway of the connecting rooms – which she still insisted upon although they slept together – he watched her pack up her laptop bag in preparation for leaving for the venue. “Nica, are you sure you’re okay? You’ve been awfully quiet the last couple days.”
“Yeah, I’m fine.” She glanced up and saw his sceptical expression. “Really Jon, I’m fine. I just have a lot on my mind right now. We’re into the last big push for Dubai and I’m trying to think if there’s anything else we should be doing...and for Europe too.” Not a lie, but not the whole truth either. She had been running mental check lists for the tour, but mostly she’d been thinking about him....about them...and what she wanted out of life. Slinging the bag over her shoulder she walked over and kissed him gently. “Relax. There’s nothing wrong.”
He raised a hand to caress her cheek. “Why don’t you come to Jersey for the break?” He didn’t know why he bothered to ask, but he had to try again.
Veronica searched his eyes for so long a pit formed in his gut while he waited for her response. She took a deep breath and put into action the decision she’d come to after thinking long and hard ever since her conversation with Alejandra. She didn’t like the pressure, but she could no longer ignore it – it was coming from too many directions. Maybe they had a point. Maybe they could see something she couldn’t. She didn’t want to spend her life alone. The last few weeks with Jon had reminded her how good they had been together, and made her long to see if they could be again. Alejandra had hit the nail on the proverbial head – she needed to either fold or go all in. While it was a scary prospect, she wasn’t a coward. And she’d promised Jon she’d try, so...... “I have some stuff to do at home before we leave for Europe.”
His heart fell and he stiffened.
Before he could speak she continued. “So give me a few days to get organized and repacked and I’ll head for Jersey by the end of the week.”
His brows rose. “Really? You mean it? You’ll actually come?”
“Yes.”
He wrapped his arms around her, pulled her closer and bent towards her. Just before their lips met he paused. “Thank you.”
Her reply was swallowed by his mouth. With a sigh she sank against him and let him sweep her up and drown her senses with his gratitude.
Banging on the door – both of them – a few minutes later broke them apart. Multiple voices yelled that the vans were waiting.
Jon sighed and rested his forehead against hers. “I’m so looking forward to having you all to myself with nobody around to interrupt us.”
“Except your kids.” She reminded him.
“But they have school – and Dot’s enrolled Romeo in pre-school - and they go to bed at a decent time.”
“Uh....you do realize that there’ll be no....slap and tickle.... with the kids in the house.”
He pouted then grinned. “Good thing I like nooners....and I’m not opposed to a little love in the afternoon.”
“A little horny are we?”
“Where you’re concerned? Always.”
Veronica laughed. “Good answer. Come on Valentino, let’s go before Jughead and Joker break down the door.” Taking his hand she tugged him towards the door.
Veronica landed in New Jersey about dinner time the following Friday, exactly two hours late. Just what her nerves needed. It didn’t help that Lori had just smirked when she explained that it made sense for her to go to Jersey since the New York office was so close and it was easier to set up and monitor interviews when she was in the same place as Jon. The girls’ response? “Uh huh. It’s good to see you making an effort with his kids.”
It was all well and good that everyone thought this was such a good idea. Now if only the butterflies in her stomach would agree. Having a car and driver meet her instead of Jon didn’t help either. Now she had no one to distract and calm her with conversation. By the time the car came to a halt in front of the door, her heart was pounding and her palms were sweating.
She’d barely stepped out when the door opened and Jon appeared. “You’re late.”
“Yeah. Some sort of technical problem in Nashville. Makes me appreciate Jovi Air even more.”
Jon took her suitcase from the driver, thanked him and ushered her inside. Closing the door, he pushed her up against it and held her there with his body. His welcoming kiss was ravenous. “I’d hoped to have dinner first, but I can’t wait.”
“J...Jo....Jon!” She pushed against his chest to hold him off a bit. “Stop! The kids...”
“Are gone for the weekend.” At her look, he shook his head. “No, I didn’t ditch them so that I could have my way with you, although I won’t deny that part of me is very happy about how it all worked out. Dot took them to her sister’s for her nephew’s birthday party. They’ll be back Sunday night.”
Veronica choked at his comment. In their current position she knew exactly what part of him was happy they were alone. “Can you at least let me get settled and catch my breath first?”
He grimaced. “Sorry, I wish I could, but I can’t.”
“What do you mean, you can’t?”
“Well, let’s just say that the world is looking a little....blue...for me right now.” He nuzzled under her ear.
“Jon..mmmm.... what in the world are you talking about?”
“I took one of those damn pills you’re so curious about. But I took it based on your original expected time of arrival. Since you were delayed, I’m a little...uncomfortable.”
She fought against laughter. “But I thought it didn’t kick in until you started to get aroused.”
“Yeah...well....I may have been thinking about what I wanted to do to you when you got here.” He admitted.
“Ah! I see.” Her chuckle was deep and teased his nerve endings. She dropped her purse and laptop bag and looped her arms around his neck, her arousal spiralling upwards dramatically at the thought of what was to come. “Can you make it upstairs, or are you going to take me right here?”
“I’d like it right here, but I think I can control myself until we get upstairs. Molly’s still here, and my bed’s more comfortable than the door or the floor.” He growled, one hand raising to open the top button of her blouse. “But you better hurry.”
She sighed theatrically. “I don’t know. I’m pretty tired from travelling. I don’t think I’m in the mood.”
Blue eyes narrowed. Popping another button, he ran his fingertip along the edge of her bra. “Woman, I’ll give you until the count of 10 to get up those stairs and into my bedroom, or I swear I’ll fuck you where I catch you and I don’t care if Molly wants to stand and watch.” He sucked on an earlobe. “One.”
Veronica shivered. “Mmmmm.”
His hand cupped a soft breast and tweaked a nipple. “Two.”
“If you want me to go upstairs, you’ve got to let me go.”
“Mmmmmhmmmm” His teeth scraped along her neck. “Three.” He switched sides. “Four.”
Gathering her scattered wits, Veronica managed to push him back enough to squeeze out from between him and the door and walk to the stairs. There she paused and turned to face him and undo another button. “Are you coming with me or are you coming after?”
His lips twitched. “Both.” He took a step towards her. “Five.”
She backed up a step at a time, undoing a button each time until her blouse was completely open and they’d reached eight. There was still two steps to go. She held open the sides of the blouse so that his view was unimpeded. “Do you want this on or off?”
Red lace and creamy smooth skin. The sight almost pushed him over the edge. “Off.” The word was barely understandable. He cleared his throat and took another step. “Nine.”
Standing at the top of the stairs, she set her hands to the fastening of her jeans. “Did I mention that it’s a matching set?”
He watched, mesmerized as the brass button slid through its restraining hole, and the zipper slowly opened to reveal more red lace. He had to swallow twice before he could speak. “Ten!”
Now they were in Atlanta for the last show of this leg of the tour. Then they had a three week break until they headed halfway across the world for the much anticipated Dubai show and the start of the European leg. Three blessed, sleeping in his own bed, hanging with his kids, long, lonely without Nica, weeks.
He was just about at the end of his rope with her. He was frustrated and had run out of ideas. She wasn’t pushing him away, but she wasn’t exactly pulling him closer either. At one point he’d thought about giving up and letting her go. He’d even stayed away from her for most of a day. But the emotions he felt at the first sight of her told him that he would never be able to completely walk away from her.
But dammit, she had to meet him halfway! He’d tried to be patient, to let her set the pace, but as far as he could tell she wasn’t even trying! He knew they could be happy if she’d just try.
And now something was obviously bothering her and once again she was shutting him out. Standing in the doorway of the connecting rooms – which she still insisted upon although they slept together – he watched her pack up her laptop bag in preparation for leaving for the venue. “Nica, are you sure you’re okay? You’ve been awfully quiet the last couple days.”
“Yeah, I’m fine.” She glanced up and saw his sceptical expression. “Really Jon, I’m fine. I just have a lot on my mind right now. We’re into the last big push for Dubai and I’m trying to think if there’s anything else we should be doing...and for Europe too.” Not a lie, but not the whole truth either. She had been running mental check lists for the tour, but mostly she’d been thinking about him....about them...and what she wanted out of life. Slinging the bag over her shoulder she walked over and kissed him gently. “Relax. There’s nothing wrong.”
He raised a hand to caress her cheek. “Why don’t you come to Jersey for the break?” He didn’t know why he bothered to ask, but he had to try again.
Veronica searched his eyes for so long a pit formed in his gut while he waited for her response. She took a deep breath and put into action the decision she’d come to after thinking long and hard ever since her conversation with Alejandra. She didn’t like the pressure, but she could no longer ignore it – it was coming from too many directions. Maybe they had a point. Maybe they could see something she couldn’t. She didn’t want to spend her life alone. The last few weeks with Jon had reminded her how good they had been together, and made her long to see if they could be again. Alejandra had hit the nail on the proverbial head – she needed to either fold or go all in. While it was a scary prospect, she wasn’t a coward. And she’d promised Jon she’d try, so...... “I have some stuff to do at home before we leave for Europe.”
His heart fell and he stiffened.
Before he could speak she continued. “So give me a few days to get organized and repacked and I’ll head for Jersey by the end of the week.”
His brows rose. “Really? You mean it? You’ll actually come?”
“Yes.”
He wrapped his arms around her, pulled her closer and bent towards her. Just before their lips met he paused. “Thank you.”
Her reply was swallowed by his mouth. With a sigh she sank against him and let him sweep her up and drown her senses with his gratitude.
Banging on the door – both of them – a few minutes later broke them apart. Multiple voices yelled that the vans were waiting.
Jon sighed and rested his forehead against hers. “I’m so looking forward to having you all to myself with nobody around to interrupt us.”
“Except your kids.” She reminded him.
“But they have school – and Dot’s enrolled Romeo in pre-school - and they go to bed at a decent time.”
“Uh....you do realize that there’ll be no....slap and tickle.... with the kids in the house.”
He pouted then grinned. “Good thing I like nooners....and I’m not opposed to a little love in the afternoon.”
“A little horny are we?”
“Where you’re concerned? Always.”
Veronica laughed. “Good answer. Come on Valentino, let’s go before Jughead and Joker break down the door.” Taking his hand she tugged him towards the door.
Veronica landed in New Jersey about dinner time the following Friday, exactly two hours late. Just what her nerves needed. It didn’t help that Lori had just smirked when she explained that it made sense for her to go to Jersey since the New York office was so close and it was easier to set up and monitor interviews when she was in the same place as Jon. The girls’ response? “Uh huh. It’s good to see you making an effort with his kids.”
It was all well and good that everyone thought this was such a good idea. Now if only the butterflies in her stomach would agree. Having a car and driver meet her instead of Jon didn’t help either. Now she had no one to distract and calm her with conversation. By the time the car came to a halt in front of the door, her heart was pounding and her palms were sweating.
She’d barely stepped out when the door opened and Jon appeared. “You’re late.”
“Yeah. Some sort of technical problem in Nashville. Makes me appreciate Jovi Air even more.”
Jon took her suitcase from the driver, thanked him and ushered her inside. Closing the door, he pushed her up against it and held her there with his body. His welcoming kiss was ravenous. “I’d hoped to have dinner first, but I can’t wait.”
“J...Jo....Jon!” She pushed against his chest to hold him off a bit. “Stop! The kids...”
“Are gone for the weekend.” At her look, he shook his head. “No, I didn’t ditch them so that I could have my way with you, although I won’t deny that part of me is very happy about how it all worked out. Dot took them to her sister’s for her nephew’s birthday party. They’ll be back Sunday night.”
Veronica choked at his comment. In their current position she knew exactly what part of him was happy they were alone. “Can you at least let me get settled and catch my breath first?”
He grimaced. “Sorry, I wish I could, but I can’t.”
“What do you mean, you can’t?”
“Well, let’s just say that the world is looking a little....blue...for me right now.” He nuzzled under her ear.
“Jon..mmmm.... what in the world are you talking about?”
“I took one of those damn pills you’re so curious about. But I took it based on your original expected time of arrival. Since you were delayed, I’m a little...uncomfortable.”
She fought against laughter. “But I thought it didn’t kick in until you started to get aroused.”
“Yeah...well....I may have been thinking about what I wanted to do to you when you got here.” He admitted.
“Ah! I see.” Her chuckle was deep and teased his nerve endings. She dropped her purse and laptop bag and looped her arms around his neck, her arousal spiralling upwards dramatically at the thought of what was to come. “Can you make it upstairs, or are you going to take me right here?”
“I’d like it right here, but I think I can control myself until we get upstairs. Molly’s still here, and my bed’s more comfortable than the door or the floor.” He growled, one hand raising to open the top button of her blouse. “But you better hurry.”
She sighed theatrically. “I don’t know. I’m pretty tired from travelling. I don’t think I’m in the mood.”
Blue eyes narrowed. Popping another button, he ran his fingertip along the edge of her bra. “Woman, I’ll give you until the count of 10 to get up those stairs and into my bedroom, or I swear I’ll fuck you where I catch you and I don’t care if Molly wants to stand and watch.” He sucked on an earlobe. “One.”
Veronica shivered. “Mmmmm.”
His hand cupped a soft breast and tweaked a nipple. “Two.”
“If you want me to go upstairs, you’ve got to let me go.”
“Mmmmmhmmmm” His teeth scraped along her neck. “Three.” He switched sides. “Four.”
Gathering her scattered wits, Veronica managed to push him back enough to squeeze out from between him and the door and walk to the stairs. There she paused and turned to face him and undo another button. “Are you coming with me or are you coming after?”
His lips twitched. “Both.” He took a step towards her. “Five.”
She backed up a step at a time, undoing a button each time until her blouse was completely open and they’d reached eight. There was still two steps to go. She held open the sides of the blouse so that his view was unimpeded. “Do you want this on or off?”
Red lace and creamy smooth skin. The sight almost pushed him over the edge. “Off.” The word was barely understandable. He cleared his throat and took another step. “Nine.”
Standing at the top of the stairs, she set her hands to the fastening of her jeans. “Did I mention that it’s a matching set?”
He watched, mesmerized as the brass button slid through its restraining hole, and the zipper slowly opened to reveal more red lace. He had to swallow twice before he could speak. “Ten!”
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Chapter 90
“FUCKING LITTLE ASSHOLE PRICKS! I’ll show them a fucking bomb!” Jon threw a brush against the wall. They’d just been allowed back into the venue after a bomb threat had caused security to evacuate everyone until they could search the building and make sure it was safe.
“Calm down Jon, you’re going to blow a blood vessel.” Veronica set down her laptop bag and moved to his wardrobe and flicked through the shirts.
“Well the fuckers piss me off!” He plunked down in a chair and scowled into the mirror.
“I know, and I wish they’d catch the bastards and string them up. But look at the upside. It was a false alarm, no one was hurt, and the show will go on.” Setting aside two shirts, she walked up behind him and massaged his temples. “Don’t think about it. Think about that great restaurant Tico took us to and that wonderful Cuban meal. Think about the warmth of the Florida sunshine and the sound of the waves hitting the beach below our table.”
With a heavy sigh Jon closed his eyes, leaned back against her and let her soothing fingers and voice and the images she described calm him.
A knock on the door a few minutes later disturbed the peace in the room. At Jon’s call, Richie entered warily.
“Hey man. Guess the idiots bombed alright.” He watched Jon carefully.
Jon snorted. “Yeah, they’re geniuses. Fuckers.”
Richie’s brows rose at Jon’s calm reaction. They all knew his temper and that this would normally send him into the stratosphere. He glanced at Veronica. “You pull the thorn again?” A glance at Jon told him that wasn’t the case. “He’s still conscious, so that can’t be it. What did you do to bring him down off the ceiling?”
“Just talked.” Veronica smiled and picked up her laptop. “I’ve got a few phone calls to make. Jon, I’ve laid out some clothes for you.”
“Thanks sugar.”
When the door closed behind her, Jon gazed thoughtfully after her. Richie watched Jon.
“How are things going on that front?” Richie gestured towards the door.
“Progressing. Slow, but in the right direction.” He hesitated, rubbing his hand on his jean covered thigh. “You ever try Viagra?”
Richie stared at him. “You looking for help or fun?”
“Fuck you asshole. For fun. Nica’s curious.”
“No, but I know guys who have. They said it was quite a ride.” He grinned remembering a snippet of conversation in Nashville. “You probably don’t want to try it the same night you want to play with Ronnie’s.... ‘toy’. You might kill her. Oh, and pick a night when we’re off the next day. From what I’ve heard you’ll need the time to recuperate.”
“Warning noted.”
Veronica sat down at her desk and turned on her laptop. While it was booting, she leaned back in the chair and thought about Jon and their relationship. Waking up the morning after the Nashville show to find him in her kitchen making breakfast had felt so comfortable and so....right...she felt a pang of yearning to make it regular occurrence.
She sighed. He was slowly, but surely chipping away at her defences, so much so that she couldn’t deny it any longer. He’d gotten under her skin, and her emotions were involved. So much for keeping it only physical Veronica! The way she saw it, she was left with two options – either end it now and walk away before she got in any deeper, or go all in and hope they could make it work this time. Something told her than Jon wouldn’t let her just walk away – at least not easily, but going the other route meant finding a way to deal with his kids and she still wasn’t sure she could do that.
She feared that neither path was going to be pain free.
“Ronnie, we took a vote and decided that you have to tour with us all the time.” David announced as he walked into the room followed by Tico and Richie.
“What are you talking about Joker?”
“You sticking around. When you’re around Jon’s actually bearable.”
“You’re crazy.”
“No he’s not. Just look at today.” Richie reminded her. “Normally, he’d be exploding worse than any bomb. We all saw the temper building, but a few minutes later I walk into his dressing room to find him all relaxed and even laughing at my jokes. How did you do that anyway?”
Veronica shrugged. “I just got him thinking about something else. It was no big deal.”
“Actually, they’ve got a point.” Paul spoke up from across the room. “I wouldn’t believe it if I didn’t see it with my own eyes, but you have a calming effect on Jon. Plus, you stand up to him and let him know when he’s being.....unnecessarily difficult.....and he listens to you. He’ll only let me go so far, but there’s no limit with you.” He nodded, as much to himself as to them. “Yep, I’ll add my vote to Davey’s. Life is much easier with you around.”
Veronica just shook her head. “You’re all nuts. Look, I’ve got work to do and you’ve got a show to get ready for, so shoo.”
“Think about Ronnie, you’ll see that we’re right.” Was David’s parting comment.
Veronica stared after them. Were they right? Come on Veronica, you know deep down they may be exaggerating a bit, but at the root of it, they’re right. You’ve always been able to make him listen, even if it meant getting in his face and cramming it down his throat. But that doesn’t make you special. You can’t be the only one who can do that.
The next afternoon found her in Tico’s studio. He’d been showing her around when Alejandra had come in to tell him he was wanted on the phone. She didn’t notice the look that passed between husband and wife.
The two women wandered around discussing the various paintings and exclaiming over Tico’s talent. Alejandra looked at the woman beside her. “He loves you, you know.”
Veronica smiled. “Yeah, he’s always been like a big brother to me. I love him too.”
“I’m not talking about Tico, I mean Jon. I can see it in the way he looks at you, the way he talks to you.” She studied Veronica’s expression. “That scares you. Why?”
“My experience with love and Jon didn’t have a happy ending the last time.”
“Mmm, Tico told me what happened. I can only imagine how horrible that was for you. But.....maybe you haven’t had your ending yet.”
Veronica just smiled and shrugged. “Maybe.”
Alejandra turned back to study the painting in front of them. “When I first met Dorothea I had already gotten to know Jon a little. Like most people I had an idea of what I thought his wife would be like. I wasn’t even close. Don’t get me wrong, she’s a good woman and a wonderful mother and was a stabilizing influence for Jon when he needed it. But to me she wasn’t the right match for him. She never really understood the pull music has on him. It was just a job that took him away a lot. Now he realizes how much he missed and how lonely the road is – how lonely life is when your partner doesn’t share the same interests to the same degree, or at least close - and he wants someone who gets it and will travel with him. That’s where you come in. If you combined all the traits he’s looking for – and needs - in a woman, and searched the whole world, there wouldn’t be any one who fills the bill better than you. And he needs passion! He’s Italian. They’re very emotional people.” She smiled wryly. “Trust me, I know the type. With Dorothea there was constancy and affection – even a sort of love – but there was no....sparks, no....fireworks! Tico tells me that’s not a problem with you.”
“Why are you telling me this?”
“I know you probably think that I have no right to say anything – we don’t know each other, although Tico has told me so much about you that I almost feel like I do. But Tico cares very deeply about you and he wants you to be happy, and I trust his judgement. He’s concerned about you – and Jon –and he thought maybe I could help.” She paused. “I spent many years dating many men looking for the one who not only made me feel cherished and protected, but made me feel...alive. I had given up hope and was resigned to spending my life alone when I met Tico. He can make me laugh and he can make me cry. He makes me want to scream – sometimes in exasperation and frustration, sometimes in pleasure. He makes me feel angry and he makes me feel loved. The key part of all of it is that he makes me feel! He makes life unpredictable, and exciting and scary and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. It’s like they said in that Steve Martin movie...I’d rather live the roller coaster than the merry-go-round. It’s more exciting and never dull. From what Tico’s told me, you don’t strike me as the placid, merry-go-round type either. It’s boring for people like us and boredom is the surest way to kill a relationship.”
Veronica sighed. Here was yet another person pushing her. “We’ve got a lot of baggage. We’re not the same people we were twenty years ago.”
“Of course you’re not. You’re more mature, more aware of what’s really important in life, and more capable of dealing with the downs as well as the ups.” Alejandra gave her a considering look. “What good is being successful if you don’t have anyone to share it with? Being independent is all well and good, but who will be there to celebrate with you or comfort you when you’re sad?”
“I have friends.”
“Mmmhmm...but is it the same? When they hold you while you cry, does it feel the same?”
Veronica suppressed a growl of exasperation. “Why is everyone pushing me so hard? Jon, Richie, my friends, now you....why are you all so sure that we’ll find a ‘happily ever after’?”
“Because we’re more objective than you right now. We can see both of you for who you are and how you are together without being blinded by the pain of past experiences.” They were silent for several minutes, then Alejandra spoke again. “Life’s too short to not grab at whatever chance we have at happiness. But it’s your life. Only you can decide if you want to take another chance on Jon. But Ronnie.....don’t string him along for too long, it’s not fair to him. What do the gamblers say? Either go all in or fold and walk away from the table.”
“There’s more involved here than just the two of us and our feelings.”
“Yes, and I understand that being around his kids is difficult for you. But they way I understand it, you haven’t given them – or yourself - much of a chance. You’re being given a second chance at a family, if you’re brave enough to take it.” She walked towards the door and paused. “Think about it Ronnie. You may not get another one.”
Veronica stared at the closed door long after Alejandra had left.
“Calm down Jon, you’re going to blow a blood vessel.” Veronica set down her laptop bag and moved to his wardrobe and flicked through the shirts.
“Well the fuckers piss me off!” He plunked down in a chair and scowled into the mirror.
“I know, and I wish they’d catch the bastards and string them up. But look at the upside. It was a false alarm, no one was hurt, and the show will go on.” Setting aside two shirts, she walked up behind him and massaged his temples. “Don’t think about it. Think about that great restaurant Tico took us to and that wonderful Cuban meal. Think about the warmth of the Florida sunshine and the sound of the waves hitting the beach below our table.”
With a heavy sigh Jon closed his eyes, leaned back against her and let her soothing fingers and voice and the images she described calm him.
A knock on the door a few minutes later disturbed the peace in the room. At Jon’s call, Richie entered warily.
“Hey man. Guess the idiots bombed alright.” He watched Jon carefully.
Jon snorted. “Yeah, they’re geniuses. Fuckers.”
Richie’s brows rose at Jon’s calm reaction. They all knew his temper and that this would normally send him into the stratosphere. He glanced at Veronica. “You pull the thorn again?” A glance at Jon told him that wasn’t the case. “He’s still conscious, so that can’t be it. What did you do to bring him down off the ceiling?”
“Just talked.” Veronica smiled and picked up her laptop. “I’ve got a few phone calls to make. Jon, I’ve laid out some clothes for you.”
“Thanks sugar.”
When the door closed behind her, Jon gazed thoughtfully after her. Richie watched Jon.
“How are things going on that front?” Richie gestured towards the door.
“Progressing. Slow, but in the right direction.” He hesitated, rubbing his hand on his jean covered thigh. “You ever try Viagra?”
Richie stared at him. “You looking for help or fun?”
“Fuck you asshole. For fun. Nica’s curious.”
“No, but I know guys who have. They said it was quite a ride.” He grinned remembering a snippet of conversation in Nashville. “You probably don’t want to try it the same night you want to play with Ronnie’s.... ‘toy’. You might kill her. Oh, and pick a night when we’re off the next day. From what I’ve heard you’ll need the time to recuperate.”
“Warning noted.”
Veronica sat down at her desk and turned on her laptop. While it was booting, she leaned back in the chair and thought about Jon and their relationship. Waking up the morning after the Nashville show to find him in her kitchen making breakfast had felt so comfortable and so....right...she felt a pang of yearning to make it regular occurrence.
She sighed. He was slowly, but surely chipping away at her defences, so much so that she couldn’t deny it any longer. He’d gotten under her skin, and her emotions were involved. So much for keeping it only physical Veronica! The way she saw it, she was left with two options – either end it now and walk away before she got in any deeper, or go all in and hope they could make it work this time. Something told her than Jon wouldn’t let her just walk away – at least not easily, but going the other route meant finding a way to deal with his kids and she still wasn’t sure she could do that.
She feared that neither path was going to be pain free.
“Ronnie, we took a vote and decided that you have to tour with us all the time.” David announced as he walked into the room followed by Tico and Richie.
“What are you talking about Joker?”
“You sticking around. When you’re around Jon’s actually bearable.”
“You’re crazy.”
“No he’s not. Just look at today.” Richie reminded her. “Normally, he’d be exploding worse than any bomb. We all saw the temper building, but a few minutes later I walk into his dressing room to find him all relaxed and even laughing at my jokes. How did you do that anyway?”
Veronica shrugged. “I just got him thinking about something else. It was no big deal.”
“Actually, they’ve got a point.” Paul spoke up from across the room. “I wouldn’t believe it if I didn’t see it with my own eyes, but you have a calming effect on Jon. Plus, you stand up to him and let him know when he’s being.....unnecessarily difficult.....and he listens to you. He’ll only let me go so far, but there’s no limit with you.” He nodded, as much to himself as to them. “Yep, I’ll add my vote to Davey’s. Life is much easier with you around.”
Veronica just shook her head. “You’re all nuts. Look, I’ve got work to do and you’ve got a show to get ready for, so shoo.”
“Think about Ronnie, you’ll see that we’re right.” Was David’s parting comment.
Veronica stared after them. Were they right? Come on Veronica, you know deep down they may be exaggerating a bit, but at the root of it, they’re right. You’ve always been able to make him listen, even if it meant getting in his face and cramming it down his throat. But that doesn’t make you special. You can’t be the only one who can do that.
The next afternoon found her in Tico’s studio. He’d been showing her around when Alejandra had come in to tell him he was wanted on the phone. She didn’t notice the look that passed between husband and wife.
The two women wandered around discussing the various paintings and exclaiming over Tico’s talent. Alejandra looked at the woman beside her. “He loves you, you know.”
Veronica smiled. “Yeah, he’s always been like a big brother to me. I love him too.”
“I’m not talking about Tico, I mean Jon. I can see it in the way he looks at you, the way he talks to you.” She studied Veronica’s expression. “That scares you. Why?”
“My experience with love and Jon didn’t have a happy ending the last time.”
“Mmm, Tico told me what happened. I can only imagine how horrible that was for you. But.....maybe you haven’t had your ending yet.”
Veronica just smiled and shrugged. “Maybe.”
Alejandra turned back to study the painting in front of them. “When I first met Dorothea I had already gotten to know Jon a little. Like most people I had an idea of what I thought his wife would be like. I wasn’t even close. Don’t get me wrong, she’s a good woman and a wonderful mother and was a stabilizing influence for Jon when he needed it. But to me she wasn’t the right match for him. She never really understood the pull music has on him. It was just a job that took him away a lot. Now he realizes how much he missed and how lonely the road is – how lonely life is when your partner doesn’t share the same interests to the same degree, or at least close - and he wants someone who gets it and will travel with him. That’s where you come in. If you combined all the traits he’s looking for – and needs - in a woman, and searched the whole world, there wouldn’t be any one who fills the bill better than you. And he needs passion! He’s Italian. They’re very emotional people.” She smiled wryly. “Trust me, I know the type. With Dorothea there was constancy and affection – even a sort of love – but there was no....sparks, no....fireworks! Tico tells me that’s not a problem with you.”
“Why are you telling me this?”
“I know you probably think that I have no right to say anything – we don’t know each other, although Tico has told me so much about you that I almost feel like I do. But Tico cares very deeply about you and he wants you to be happy, and I trust his judgement. He’s concerned about you – and Jon –and he thought maybe I could help.” She paused. “I spent many years dating many men looking for the one who not only made me feel cherished and protected, but made me feel...alive. I had given up hope and was resigned to spending my life alone when I met Tico. He can make me laugh and he can make me cry. He makes me want to scream – sometimes in exasperation and frustration, sometimes in pleasure. He makes me feel angry and he makes me feel loved. The key part of all of it is that he makes me feel! He makes life unpredictable, and exciting and scary and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. It’s like they said in that Steve Martin movie...I’d rather live the roller coaster than the merry-go-round. It’s more exciting and never dull. From what Tico’s told me, you don’t strike me as the placid, merry-go-round type either. It’s boring for people like us and boredom is the surest way to kill a relationship.”
Veronica sighed. Here was yet another person pushing her. “We’ve got a lot of baggage. We’re not the same people we were twenty years ago.”
“Of course you’re not. You’re more mature, more aware of what’s really important in life, and more capable of dealing with the downs as well as the ups.” Alejandra gave her a considering look. “What good is being successful if you don’t have anyone to share it with? Being independent is all well and good, but who will be there to celebrate with you or comfort you when you’re sad?”
“I have friends.”
“Mmmhmm...but is it the same? When they hold you while you cry, does it feel the same?”
Veronica suppressed a growl of exasperation. “Why is everyone pushing me so hard? Jon, Richie, my friends, now you....why are you all so sure that we’ll find a ‘happily ever after’?”
“Because we’re more objective than you right now. We can see both of you for who you are and how you are together without being blinded by the pain of past experiences.” They were silent for several minutes, then Alejandra spoke again. “Life’s too short to not grab at whatever chance we have at happiness. But it’s your life. Only you can decide if you want to take another chance on Jon. But Ronnie.....don’t string him along for too long, it’s not fair to him. What do the gamblers say? Either go all in or fold and walk away from the table.”
“There’s more involved here than just the two of us and our feelings.”
“Yes, and I understand that being around his kids is difficult for you. But they way I understand it, you haven’t given them – or yourself - much of a chance. You’re being given a second chance at a family, if you’re brave enough to take it.” She walked towards the door and paused. “Think about it Ronnie. You may not get another one.”
Veronica stared at the closed door long after Alejandra had left.
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