Chapter 76

Jon yanked open the door and charged down the hallway after Veronica. He caught up to her in the control room. Standing on the other side of her desk he watched her move paper around. “It wasn’t what you think. Will you let me explain?”

Veronica shrugged but didn’t look up. “No explanation necessary Jon, it’s none of my business. I shouldn’t have just walked in like that and I apologize. It won’t happen again.”

“She’s Michael’s cousin. He asked me if I would meet her, pose for a picture and sign something for her. She wanted to show me a new tat she got. I didn’t know when I agreed that it was on her breast. I swear!”

Veronica shrugged. “Whatever. Like I said, what you do with your tech’s cousin – or anyone else for that matter - is none of my business. I just didn’t realize that you entertained female visitors in your dressing room when you were half naked. Just a suggestion? You might want to lock the door in future. Unless, of course, you want to become an exhibitionist. I would appreciate a warning if that’s the case. That kind of thing is pretty hard to contain and requires a lot of spinning to the public.” She still didn’t look at him.

The couple of staff members in the room winced and looked for a way to escape. This was definitely a private conversation.

“That’s not what was going on!” He insisted. She just kept flipping through papers. “Dammit Ronnie will you look at me?!” He waited until she did. “I swear to you, nothing happened!”

She leaned over the desk until she was almost nose to nose with him. “For the last time, I. Don’t. Care.” Her words were tough, but the emotion in her eyes betrayed the lie. The scream of a guitar broke the silence of the room and had Veronica glancing at the clock. The opening band was starting. “You’d better go get ready. You wouldn’t want to keep your fans waiting.”

Jon stared at her for another minute, then with a growl, spun on his heel and stormed out of the room. “FUCK!”

Entering his dressing room, he slammed the door behind him. He was at the end of his rope. No matter what he did, he couldn’t get past the wall she’d put up between them. He knew he wasn’t blameless, but how long was she going to make him suffer? Of course, she was suffering too, and that’s what he really didn’t get. Was she really so afraid that he’d hurt her again that she was prepared to deny them both the happiness he was sure they could bring each other? He’d tried everything he could think of to show her how he felt, but she wouldn’t believe it. Now he had this latest hurdle to overcome – if he could. Why did she have to walk in at that moment?! He had told her the truth about what had happened with Michael’s cousin. He could have told her that his shirt was open, not to tempt the blonde, but to tempt her if she stopped by like she had the last couple shows. After all, it was only fair. The black leather mini skirt, cobalt blue halter and black knee high boots she was wearing had his blood heating and made him choke on his juice when she’d joined him for lunch. The damn woman could give a eunuch a hard on!

He buttoned his shirt, grabbed a brush from the table, ran it through his hair a few times, threw it back down and stomped out of the door and down the hallway to where the makeup crew were waiting. Everyone took one look at his face and gave him a wide berth. He was a storm looking to break and no one wanted to be the one to trigger it.



The show was torture for both of them. Jon was pissed....at himself, at Veronica, at the blonde,...and mostly at the whole situation. He had to fight to put up a good front for the fans. Every time he looked to the side of the stage where Veronica was standing he wanted to grab her and shake her until she admitted that she shared his feelings...and then fuck her until neither one of them could walk! He was running out of patience.

For Veronica, her reaction to the scene she walked in on in Jon’s dressing room had shaken her. She wasn’t supposed to care! The fact that she did, and the strength of her hurt and anger told her that he was further under her skin than she’d thought. The idea both thrilled and scared her. A small part deep inside of her wondered if she’d driven him to it. After all, men had needs and the adrenaline he got from performing intensified it even more.

On top of that, the story of their...discussion...in the control room had quickly spread through the staff and crew, and Michael immediately spoke to his cousin, then promptly searched out Veronica to essentially verify Jon’s story and assure her that nothing happened. In fact, as much as his cousin wished otherwise, she admitted that it was clear to her than Jon wasn’t interested. So now Veronica debated whether she actually owed Jon an apology.

Watching him, she was struck – as always – by the sheer animal magnetism that oozed from him, and never more than when he was here, in his element. She was no more immune than any other red blooded female, her libido reacting predictably. She could also tell that he was pissed, and it didn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out why. The look in his eyes when he glanced her way confirmed it. Well, she wasn’t exactly thrilled with him either. She sighed. The truth was she didn’t know what to do and the indecision, that was so unlike her, was making her crazy.

When the guys gathered to take their bows, Veronica headed backstage. She had to walk by where they’d come out to get to the control room and she wanted to be past that point before they left the stage. She almost made it when she was stopped by a member of the crew who was a Robin Williams wannabe and had a new joke to tell her.

She was still standing there laughing with him when Jon emerged into the hallway.

The sound of her laughter drew his gaze and the last tether on his temper snapped. Jaw clenched, eyes blazing blue fire, he strode over, grabbed her by the wrist and towed her towards his dressing room.

“Jon? What the hell?!” She struggled not to fall with her spike heeled boots and the pace he set.

“That’s it! My patience is gone! I’ve had enough of this fucking shit Ronnie! It ends now!” Throwing open the door, he pulled her in, slammed it shut and locked it.

Her brows rose at the snick of the lock. “What the hell do you think you’re doing?”

He swung her around and backed her up against the wall. “I’m going to do what I should have done weeks ago....what we both have wanted for a long time. I’m going to fuck you. Right here, right now.”

Brows rising even higher, her hands came up to brace against his chest. “And you think I’m just going to let you?”

Jon stepped closer to press his body against hers – her hands weren’t exerting any pressure to stop him. “Not only are you going to let me, you’re going to participate.” He bent his head to suck her earlobe and whisper in her ear. “And you’re going to want it as much as I do.”

Veronica tried to ignore the shivers running down her spine. Much to her self disgust, far from pissing her off, his forceful ‘me Tarzan’ attitude was turning her on even more. But it’s still not a good idea Veronica! She licked dry lips and shook her head.

Hot lips moved down her neck. “No? You mean that your pulse isn’t racing, you’re not breathing faster....and your pretty pink nipples aren’t all stiff because they want to be sucked?” Amethyst eyes narrowed and glittered. He leaned back slightly, smirked and ran one finger back and forth across a breast, then lightly pinched a taut peak. “Jewel hard sweetheart, what can I say?” His hand slid down her side until he touched bare skin at the edge of the hem of her skirt. “And I bet if I reach under this skirt I’ll find you wet and open for me.”

Veronica closed her eyes and bit her lip against a moan at the feel of his calloused fingertips on the tender skin of her inner thigh acting out his words. She didn’t need to wait until those clever fingers reached their destination to discover if he was right. She knew he was. Her arousal had intensified when the touch of his body impressed upon her the extent of his.

His smiled widened. “Aaah, just as I thought.” The words were murmured against her lips just before he took possession of her mouth, tongue laving the marks left by her teeth.

Veronica knew she should push him away, but she couldn’t summon the will. What he was doing felt too damn good! The scent of him, the taste of him, the feel of him all conspired to overwhelm her senses.

Jon sensed she was on the brink of surrender and groaned. Tearing his mouth from hers he slid it along her jaw to nuzzle beneath her ear. “Stop pretending you don’t feel how right this is Nica.” Skilled fingers slid along her nape to tug the ties of her halter free, and urge the clingy material down until her breast were revealed. Cupping one firm mound in his palm, he raised it like an offering, one his mouth eagerly accepted.

She couldn’t suppress the moan that was dragged from her throat at the first pull of his hot lips. He murmured in approval. “Yes. Stop pretending you don’t like this.” The fingers toying with her damp curls retreated and pushed up her skirt even more. One hard thigh spread hers wide, then wider, making room for his hips. “Stop pretending that you don’t want this.”

Veronica cried out as, bending his knees slightly – her heels making them similar in height, with a sudden jerk of his hips Jon buried his aching erection inside her. She sucked in a surprised breath – she hadn’t even felt him undo his pants!

He held still for several breaths, fighting for control. “Jesus! You’re so fucking wet I could slide clear up to your throat!” Unable to wait any longer, he started to move – not thrusting, but more of a circular grinding motion that stroked her throbbing sheath and rubbed her swollen clit.

She started to pant, her fingers clenching in the sweat soaked cotton of his t-shirt.

His mouth came back up to hers briefly before returning to his favourite spot under her ear and leaning harder into her. “Christ you feel good! You’re so hot and you hold me so tight. We were made for each other Nica. Stop fighting it. Just feel it. Feel me stretching you....filling you. Feel how good we are together.” Feeling her walls tightening around him, he lifted one knee onto his hip and pressed deeper. “That’s it. Come for me.”

Veronica screamed.

Jon kept moving until her tremors subsided, then held still to let her catch her breath. “See? Has anyone else ever been able to do that for you? Any other man ever made you feel what I do? Pleasure you like I can?” He started moving again, short thrusts, just enough to remind her of his presence inside her – and that he was still hard. “Tell me you feel it too Nica. Tell me you want it. You want me!” When she didn’t answer immediately he thrust harder. “Tell me!”

Veronica couldn’t think, could only feel, and couldn’t deny those feelings any longer. As her body started to gear up again, she let go. “Yes. God yes!” Reaching down between them she gripped the hem of his t-shirt and pulled.

He eased back slightly and raised his arms so that she could pull the offending garment off. When cotton went flying, he lifted her other leg and grinned as she locked her heels in the small of his back.

Veronica ran her hands up his chest and over his shoulders, one burying in his hair. She licked his lips, then bit the lower one. “Okay Tarzan, show me what you’ve got.” Her voice was a deep purr.

His answer was a low growl and an immediate increase in the tempo of his hips. Faster, harder, deeper he thrust until he was pounding into her.

“Jesus!” Was all she could get out. She had no breath for words. Every gulp of air she took was pushed out by the force of his next thrust. She gave up trying to speak, wrapped both arms around his shoulders and held on.

Jon groaned, buried his mouth in her neck again, and thrust even harder.

It was a wild, sweaty ride that seemed to go on and on and left them both drained, shaking and panting like racehorses.

Chapter 75

Three days later, Richie answered the knock at his hotel room door to find Jon on the other side. “Hey man.”

“Hey.” Jon walked in and slumped down on the couch.

Richie’s brows rose. “What’s up? You look like someone just took away your favourite toy. And how come you’re here instead of trying to seduce your girlfriend?” It was an off day for them before two shows in Anaheim. Jon usually spent his off days as close to Ronnie as she’d let him get.

Jon grimaced. “She’s killing me! It finally looks like I’m making progress.....but it’s like one step forward, two steps back, then half a step forward! It’s making me fucking nuts! I know that she still has feelings for me, but she keeps trying to deny it! I’m so fucking frustrated!”

“In more ways than one, obviously.” Amusement filled Richie’s voice.

Jon glared. “It’s been thirty-seven days!” She’s got to be feeling the strain too. She’s too passionate a woman not to be!

Richie studied his friend for a moment. “Have you thought about forgetting about her and moving on if she’s being so difficult?” His lips twitched at the stink eye that came his way. He’d figured he knew the answer, but he’d wanted to see Jon’s reaction to the idea. “Okaaay, I guess that’s not an option.”

A knock at the door announced David’s arrival. “Hey.” He looked at Jon. “What’s the matter with you?” When Jon just grunted he turned to Richie.

“He’s....frustrated.”

“Ah. Girlfriend not putting out?” David’s tone was sympathetic. “So why don’t you forget about her and move on?” That comment earned him the stink eye.

Richie chuckled. “I suggested that too, but apparently that’s not an option.”

David pretended to ponder the problem. “Well, you could get a girl or two out of the audience to....ease your frustration. I’m sure there’s lots that would be willing to help.”

Jon scowled. “I don’t want to ‘ease my frustration’ with anyone else. I want Ronnie!” Their barely suppressed grins threatened to snap the leash on his temper. “Just what do you two find so funny about this?”

“Sorry, it’s just that seeing you, of all people, the man who has women falling at his feet all over the world, spinning in circles over one is....unexpected.” Richie answered.

“I’ve never seen you put this much effort into a woman...not even Dot.” David added.

“Yeah, well....she’s worth it.” Jon raked a hand through his hair, braced his elbows on his knees and rested his head in his hands. “If I survive it.”

“You know what they say... ‘what doesn’t kill you’....” Richie joked.

“Are you sure her feelings go beyond friendship?” David felt compelled to ask. Women just didn’t turn Jon down.

Jon thought about their intimate moments, her visit to the house around his birthday and the last few days and smiled. The connecting door had stayed open although they’d slept separately, they ate breakfast/lunch together in his room and she’d started appearing at his dressing room door while he was getting ready to go on stage. Her excuses for being there were always plausible, but nothing so urgent that it couldn’t have waited until after the show. She’d even let him kiss her a few times. It was when he tried to take it further that she pulled away. “Oh yeah. She wants me.” He hadn’t missed the hunger in her eyes when she looked at him and thought he wouldn’t notice.

“Have you thought about trying to make her jealous?” David suggested. When the other two stared at him like he’d lost his mind, he shrugged. “What? Women can have strange reactions to that. Maybe if she thinks he’s losing interest she’ll stop playing hard to get.”

Richie snorted. “This is Ronnie we’re talking about here, remember. He wants her to let him in, not castrate him! That shit won’t fly with her. He’s just going to have to be patient.”

Jon grimaced, but didn’t disagree.





In her room, Veronica let out a relieved breath when the door closed behind Jon. Maybe now she could concentrate on work. She’d begun to wonder if he was going to hang out in her room all day, and the man was very distracting. Despite her determination that it be otherwise, her senses were very attuned to his presence. Whether he was across the table or across the room, she was always vividly aware of where he was and what he was doing. She even found herself looking for reasons to search him out if he wasn’t near. The worst was their first meeting of the day, when Jon would appear in the doorway either rumpled from sleep or fresh from the shower and she had to fight the urge to snuggle up against him and explore every inch of the hard, warm flesh of his chest and arms.

She shook her head at her own thoughts. Stop it! You’re just horny. That had to be why her heart beat a little faster when he was near and she got that warm fuzzy feeling when he smiled at her with that certain look in his eyes. Hormones, not true emotions. Lust, not love. After all, the man was gorgeous and it had been a month or so since she’d gotten any. It wasn’t the first time she’d gone that long without sex, but it was the first time she had to maintain a drought while in such close proximity to a man who offered to....quench her thirst – and one she knew from experience could sate her to her toes.

She groaned, got up, and grabbed a Coke from the mini bar. If this kept up she was soon going to be forced to make use of Lori’s gift. Sipping, she gazed out of the window and thought about everything the girls had said. She understood where they were coming from, and she appreciated their concern and their opinions, but they didn’t understand. They didn’t know how...overwhelming....the feelings had been between them once. But you were kids then! Maybe Jon’s right, and you were too young to handle it then. But you’re older now, better equipped to cope. But the pain had been debilitating. That was a long time ago. Maybe he’s changed. Maybe you could make it work this time. Isn’t he worth another try? Her body certainly seemed to think so. His kids were still a stumbling block she didn’t know if she could overcome.

Veronica sighed and turned back to her laptop, no further ahead than she was an hour ago, or a day ago. She was seriously tempted to give in to what everyone around her seemed to think was best for her, and let him in, but......she was so damned scared! Coward! You’ll never know for sure unless you try. Take it slow. Start with relieving some of that tension. Then maybe you can think clearly. You know you want it...want him.

She snorted at herself, but couldn’t get the idea out of her head. The next day after she got back to her desk after dinner she tried to concentrate on her notes from the interviews earlier, but her mind wouldn’t settle. Unable to take the frustration any longer, she snapped. Fuck it!

Before her saner self could talk her out of it, she rose and strode down the hallway towards the dressing rooms. Stopping in front of Jon’s she took a deep breath, knocked once and walked in. “Jon, I.......”

The words died in her throat at the sight of Jon in black leather pants, sleeveless pale blue button down shirt hanging open, bent over the barely covered cleavage of a well endowed blonde. They both looked up at her entrance, the woman’s green eyes shooting daggers.

She had to swallow twice before she could speak. “Sorry, I didn’t realize you were....busy. It can wait. I’ll talk to you later.” Gathering her dignity and professionalism, she turned and exited the room.

“Nica wait!” Jon had seen the flash of pain in her eyes and heard it in her voice before the icy coolness took over. The quiet closing of the door behind her echoed loudly in his head, and sounded like a death knell to his future. His heart sank and his stomach churned. “FUCK!”

Chapter 74

They arrived at the hotel in Denver late morning. Richie stopped Veronica outside the door to her room and gave her a big bear hug.

“Thank you for....everything.”

“Anytime. And I mean that.” She pointed a warning finger at him. “Don’t bottle it up again! Talk to me!”

“Yes ma’am.” He saluted her.

She snorted. “Smartass. Go get settled. The vans leave in...” She checked her schedule and her watch. “An hour and a half.”

Richie saluted again, winked and disappeared into his room.

Veronica opened her own door, walked in, sat down on the end of the bed and sighed. It had been a long week. She felt emotionally worn out, and instinctively turned to the one thing that had brought her some small measure of peace, although she refused to acknowledge to herself either the source or the reason. Sighing, she rose and walked to the door connecting her room and the one beside it. When she opened her side she was only slightly surprised to find his door sitting wide open.

Jon was sitting on the couch, bent over the laptop open on the coffee table in front of him, but looked up as the door opened and Veronica walked in and sat close beside him. It was the first time she’d come that close to him voluntarily, outside what was necessary to do her job, and he was almost afraid to move and scare her away. They’d talked everyday while she’d been in L.A., about Richie of course, and work, but also about their regular daily events. He felt that he was finally making some progress and was worried about doing something to fuck it up. “Hi.”

Veronica slumped back against the couch and closed her eyes. “Hi.”

He frowned at her pale face and the dark circles under her eyes. For the hundredth time he swore at himself for dumping Dubai on her like that. And now this mess with Richie. Thankfully another couple months would take at least one off of her plate. Maybe then he could get her to relax a little. He eased back until he was shoulder to shoulder with her, reached out slowly and took her hand in his, lacing their fingers together. “Are you hungry?”

She shook her head. “No, we ate on the plane.”

“How is he today?”

“About the same as yesterday. A little quieter than usual, but otherwise okay.”

“I still can’t believe he did something that stupid! He knows better than to drive after drinking! We aren’t fucking teenagers anymore!” He blew out a frustrated sigh and raked his free hand through his hair. Concern was clearly visible in the blue eyes studying her. “How are you holding up? You look tired.”

Veronica smiled slightly. “We’ve stayed up late talking.” She gazed down at their joined hands and flexed hers, her smile widening a little when he squeezed back. “He’s......lost.....adrift. He’s hurting and doesn’t know where to turn except alcohol to ease the pain. I’m...afraid for him Jon. He needs help. Before something worse happens.”

Releasing her hand he slid both arms around her and hugged her close, pressing his lips to her temple. “We’ll get him whatever he needs. He’ll be alright. You’ll see.”

She leaned her head against him and sighed. “So much loss...so much pain.”

He wasn’t sure if she was still talking about Richie, or if she was referring to them as well. Figuring he was better safe than sorry, he didn’t say anything, just held her and rubbed her arm lightly.

After awhile, encouraged that she wasn’t pulling away, he lifted her face with a hand under her chin and brushed her lips with his. When she didn’t stop him, he settled in for a more thorough taste.

The feel of his tongue stroking hers brought Veronica to full awareness and set off her warning bells. Not a good idea Veronica, you’re too vulnerable right now! Senses tingling, she sat up and gestured towards his laptop. “I’m sorry. I interrupted you.”

Dammit! “That’s okay, I was just catching up on my e-mails and doing a little research for a Foundation project. You can interrupt me anytime.”

“Can I have that in writing?”

“Ha ha. Smartass.”

Veronica smiled, glanced at her watch and stood up. “Oh, the vans will be leaving in about forty-five minutes. I’d better get settled and let you get back to work.” She hesitated. “I think we should keep Richie out of the interviews for a few days. Let things settle down.”

Jon nodded. “And I think maybe you should sit in on them. Tiffany’s doing a good job, but if something comes up with all of this mess, I’d rather you were there to help deal with it.”

She agreed, in fact, had already planned on it. She was also surprised that he’d suggested it instead of just handling it himself. It made her feel....needed and appreciated. It had been a long time since he’d made her feel that way.





Back in her room, she was rummaging through her suitcase looking for her extra memory sticks when her hand came into contact with a medium sized box. She pulled it out to find a brightly wrapped package with a note taped to the top. If you won’t give him a chance you’re going to need this. But wouldn’t you rather have the real thing? Lori. The suspicions the note had swirling through her brain made her almost afraid to open it. She ripped off the paper, lifted the lid and almost groaned out loud at the sight of the vibrator.  A sound behind her had her quickly replacing the lid on the box and stuffing it back into her suitcase. She turned to find Jon in the doorway.

“I’ve called a band meeting in Richie’s room. I’ll come get you when we’re ready to go.”

She met his eyes, read the message there and nodded. “Okay.” They needed to deal with it before the show and without a lot of people around.

“That’s it? No advice on how to handle it? What to say or not say to him?”

Veronica shook her head. “The band would never have made it this far if you guys didn’t know how to deal with internal issues.” She frowned. “He needs to understand how serious this is – not just the DUI, but the drinking. I’ve tried to get the point across, but.....”

“But a little reinforcement won’t hurt?”

“Something like that.”

“Okay. I’ll do my best.” He gave her a quick hug, dropped a kiss on her lips and was gone before she could react.



Forty minutes later he was back. “Let’s go.”

She searched his face. “Everything okay?”

He shrugged. “I guess. It will be. I hope.”

Veronica acted instinctively, without thinking. She kissed him briefly. “Keep the faith Johnny.” Her lips twitched.

Jon stared at her, stunned, for a moment, then groaned. “That’s bad Nica. That’s really bad.”

“I didn’t write it. You did.”

“Let’s go smartass.” He swatted her rear end and urged her towards the door.



They met up with the others in the hallway. It was a silent ride to the venue. While the others headed inside, Veronica held Richie back with a hand on his arm.

“You okay?”

He sighed and managed a slight smile. “Yeah. They didn’t say anything I didn’t already know or wasn’t expecting. I didn’t especially enjoy hearing it, but I know that they’re right and they’re worried about me.” He hugged her. “Stop worrying little girl. I’ve learned my lesson. I’ll be fine.” As they walked inside he glanced around. “I take it I’m excused from the interview room for awhile?”

“Just for a few days. Until things settle down a little and we see the reaction.”

He nodded and grimaced. “I’m sorry that I’ve made your job more difficult. You have enough on your plate with Jon and Dubai and everything, and here I go adding to it.”

“I’m more concerned about you than me. I can deal with the rest.” Well, most of it. As for Jon....I’m working on it.

Chapter 73

When Veronica got off the plane she found Brent waiting for her in baggage claim. “Hi, how bad is it?”

“Only a couple of the rags have it so far, but that’ll change by morning.”

They spent the drive to Laguna discussing potential problems and possible counter measures. When Brent stopped in front of a house, Veronica glanced around. “Is this his place?”

“According to our information, yes. One of them anyway. Do you want me to come in with you or wait for you or what?”

“No, I’ll be fine thanks. If he doesn’t have room to put me up I’ll find a hotel.”

He helped her get her bags to the door. She knocked and waited, not totally surprised when the door opened to reveal a well built blonde. She pulled a business card out of her purse. “Hi, my name is Veronica Watson. I’m with Mercury records, currently working with Bon Jovi. Is this the Sambora residence?”

“Umm...” The blonde hesitated and glanced between Veronica and the card in her hand.

“Who’s at the door?” Ava appeared. “Ronnie! Hi! It’s okay Valerie, she’s a friend of my dad’s.”

“Hi Ava. Are you okay?”

The big blue eyes filled with tears, but she nodded. “Yeah, but the police took Daddy away!”

Veronica stepped through the doorway to hug her. “I know sweetie.”

“Uh, Veronica...call me if you need any help with anything. I’ll let you know what we’re hearing.” Brent set her luggage inside.

“Thanks Brent. And thanks for the ride.”

He waved and was gone.

Ava slid her arm around Veronica’s waist and urged her into the living room and down onto the couch. Valerie closed the door and followed them.

“Ronnie this is Valerie. She’s a stylist in L.A. and a friend of Daddy’s.”

Veronica held out her hand. “Hi. Nice to meet you.”

Valerie shook it. “Hi. Nice to meet you too.”

“So...you were with them tonight?”

“Yes.”

Veronica turned to Ava. “Where’s your friend?”

“We took her home.”

“Did you call your mother and let her know you were okay?”

“Yeah.”

“Okay. Tell me everything that happened.”

Valerie frowned. “I think we should wait for Richie.”

Veronica smiled slightly. “Oh I want to hear it from him too, but I need to know what you two remember as well.” At the unsure expression on Valerie’s face, she explained. “If I’m going to be able to help him I need to know everything.”

Ava started. “We went out for dinner.”

“Just the four of you?”

“Yeah.”

“And did Daddy drink?”

Ava hesitated, then nodded. “Yeah, but just a couple.”

Veronica took a deep breath. This was the tough one. “Was he drunk?”

Ava frowned and shrugged. Veronica looked at Valerie, who shrugged. “I couldn’t say for sure. He wasn’t slurring or stumbling around or anything.”

Something in her voice had Veronica studying her closely. “But you suspected.”

Again Valerie shrugged. “He was driving a bit erratically I guess, but I just thought it was the Hummer.”

Veronica tried not to sound accusing. “Can I ask why, if you suspected, you didn’t insist on driving?”

Valerie’s eyes widened. “He didn’t seem that bad to me. Besides, I didn’t want to piss him off.”

That statement pretty much told Veronica everything she needed to know. “Okay.” She glanced at her watch and eyed Ava. “Do you think you’ll be able to sleep?”

“I want to wait for Daddy.”

“Okay. Why don’t you get a pillow and blanket then and lay down on the couch?”

“You’re staying aren’t you?”

“Yes. I need to talk to Daddy.”

The three sat quietly watching T.V. for the next several hours, dozing off and on. The sound of the door opening had the adults sitting up – Ava was asleep.

Richie’s eyes widened when he saw Veronica. “Hi little girl. Come to assess the damage?”

“Hi Jughead. Something like that. How are you?” He looked like shit. His face was pale with dark circles under his eyes and his hair stuck up all over like he’d been running his hands through it repeatedly – which he had.

He shrugged. “I’ve been better.” He turned to Valerie. “Sorry about everything. Thanks for taking care of the girls. Do you want me to drive you home?”

Valerie knew a dismissal when she heard one, even if it was gently put. “No, that’s fine, I have my car. I just wanted to make sure you were alright.” She stood and kissed him briefly. “Take care of yourself Richie.”

“Thanks. You too.”

After she’d gone Richie stood staring down at his sleeping daughter. “I can’t believe I did that to her.”

“Tell me what happened Rich.”

He sighed heavily, then nodded and sat beside Ava, one large hand stroking her blonde hair.


They talked through what was left of the night.



As dawn painted the horizon Richie went into the kitchen to put on a third pot of coffee. Veronica glanced at her watched, quickly calculated the time difference and reached for her phone.

He picked it up on the second ring. “Morning sugar. How is he?”

“Hi. He’s trying to put up a good front, but....he’s pissed at himself, humiliated....and hurting.” She stood and wandered out the patio doors onto the deck. Speaking quietly, she gave him a rundown of what she’d learned of the nights events, from their dinner where Richie had a couple of drinks to his difficulty keeping the Hummer on the right side of the line. Then she went on to tell him about what had brought it on.

Jon could hear her voice break. “Hey honey, don’t cry. We’ll get him through this.”

“Oh Jon, you should have heard him talking about those last days and weeks with his dad! It breaks my heart to see him like this. I feel so helpless.” She fought against her tears. She didn’t want Richie to see them and feel worse.

He smiled gently. She really had a soft heart for the people she cared about. Now if only he could find a way to be included in that group again. “What he needs is exactly what you’re doing. We just need to be there for him and listen if he wants to talk. Did he mention what’s happening next?”

“He has to go to court in May. That’s all I know at this point. His lawyer says we have to wait until the blood test results come back.” She blew out a shaky breath. “Talk to me about something else, Jon. How was Easter with the kids?”

“Good. We had an Easter egg hunt in the back yard. It was supposed to be just for Jake and Romeo since Jesse thought he was too old for it, but I noticed him searching through the bushes....and I don’t believe he was looking for a lost ball.” He hesitated. “They asked me when you were coming to visit again.”

She debated her response, but some of the girls’ comments kept echoing in her head. “We’ll see.”

Jon sat up straighter in his chair and had to force himself not to push. “Okay. We can talk about it later. Are you going to stay out there until the Denver show or are you going back to Nashville?”

“I think I’ll stay. I have some stuff to do at the L.A. office anyway. If Richie doesn’t want me around I’ll check into a hotel.”

“Of course I want you around little girl.” Richie stepped through the patio door and handed her a cup of coffee. Is that Jon?” She nodded. He took a deep breath. “Can I talk to him?”

“Sure.” She handed him the phone and went back inside to give them privacy.

Chapter 72

“You’re nuts. You know that right?” Lori stared at her friend in disbelief. “Absolutely certifiable.”

“Why? Because I won’t just fall in with his plans?” Veronica took a sip of her drink. The girls had gathered for dinner at their favourite restaurant and were getting caught up on the latest in the Jon/Ronnie saga.

“No, because you’ve got what so few people get....a second chance with the love of your life...and you’re throwing it away.”

“He’s not the love of my life.” Veronica argued.

“Riiight.” Tricia snorted. “That’s why you’ve had sooo many boyfriends, trying to find Mr. Right.”

Veronica shrugged. “I just haven’t found him yet.”

“You haven’t been trying....because you know that you already found him...twenty years ago. You just ran into some horrible circumstances that tore you apart.” Naomi spoke up. “But now you have a second chance!”

“Not interested.”

“Yes you are, otherwise these little stunts he’s pulling wouldn’t bother you so much. You’d just tell him off and ignore him.” Lori disagreed. At Veronica’s mulish expression, she sighed. “What is it exactly that you have against him – aside from the past - that’s preventing you from giving him another chance?”

“Isn’t that enough?”

“Are you the same person that you were twenty years ago?” Tricia jumped in. Veronica grimaced. “Exactly. You’ve grown up and matured. So why do you think that he’s the same man – or rather boy – that he was then? That he hasn’t grown up too?”

“He’s still stubborn...”

“And you’re not?” Naomi interrupted.

“...and arrogant and bad tempered.”

“Uh huh...but that’s nothing new for you, you deal with it every day. And I’ve seen you in action, you can hold your own against his temper.” Lori tilted her head slightly. “What does he do when you call him on it?” There was no question that she would.

“He apologizes.” Veronica was forced to admit.

“There you go. He just needs someone....you....to keep him grounded.”

“Why are you all suddenly on his side? I thought you were my friends and you cared about me.” Veronica was feeling cornered.

“Oh honey, we do care about you. We love you! And we don’t want to see you miss out on the chance to be happy and loved. Why won’t you give him a chance?” Naomi urged.

“Have you forgotten that his mother hates me?”

Tricia waved that away. “Oh I have no doubts that you can hold your own with her. Besides, I’m sure Jon will deal with her.”

“And the kids? How am I supposed agree to be a part of his life when being around his kids knots me up so much I want to puke?”

“Okay, that’s one’s a tough one, I’ll grant you that, but....you’ve only been around them, what, two or three days? That’s not enough time to decide anything. You said yourself that you got along well with the oldest two, it’s just the youngest one that really bothers you.” It was Lori’s turn again. “I think that you need to spend more time with them, and see how you feel.” She paused, then continued in a quieter tone. “You know, if you keep pushing him away he’s going to quit coming back and you’ll lose him for good. Do you really want to do that?”

Veronica was silent for a long minute. “I just don’t know if I can take the risk. He hurt me so badly....I don’t think I could survive that again.”

“So you’d rather take the safe, coward’s way out and be alone for the rest of your life? That’s not the Veronica I know. The Veronica I know would have the guts to open up her heart and mind to him again if there was even a chance of finding the kind of happiness most of us can only dream about, or read about in romance novels. The Veronica I know wouldn’t let fear and something that happened twenty years ago dictate her future.” Naomi pushed.

“All of my memories of him are wrapped up in pain.”

“So make new ones.” Tricia suggested. When Veronica just frowned, she sighed. “Look, we just want you to be happy, and from what you’ve told us, he made you very happy once and wants the opportunity to try again. All we’re saying is think about it and don’t dismiss him out of hand.”

They sat in silence for a few minutes. Lori finally broke it. “Mom asked me to check that you’re bringing dessert for Easter dinner tomorrow.”

Veronica smiled. “Yeah. I made cherry pie, some squares and a bunny cake.”





Three days later, Lori had gone to Veronica’s for dinner and stayed to watch a movie. It was almost over when her phone rang.

“Hello?”

“Hi Veronica, it’s Brent. Sorry for calling so late.”

“No problem Brent. What’s new in L.A.? Does Vince want something else?”

“No, that’s not why I’m calling. I just heard something, and I thought you should know. Richie Sambora just got arrested for DUI in Laguna.”

“Oh shit! What happened?”

“Not sure. All I’ve been able to find out is that he was with some girlfriend, his daughter and another young girl.”

“Did he blow over?”

“He refused the breathalyser, insisted on a blood test instead.”

Veronica raised a hand to rub her temple while her mind spun with possibilities. “Okay. I’ll get out there as fast as I can.”

“Let me know when your plane will land and I’ll meet you with whatever scuttlebutt’s floating around.”

“Okay thanks. I’ll see you soon. And thanks for calling.” Hanging up, she closed her eyes for a moment, then picked up the phone again. “Jon, it’s me. Sorry for calling so late.”

“Hey sugar, no problem, I was catching up on my mail.” And wishing you were here. “What’s up?”

“I just got a call from a colleague in the L.A. office. Richie’s been arrested for DUI.”

“Awwww FUCK!” He raked a hand threw his hair. “What happened?”

She filled him in as much as she knew. “I’m heading out there now to check on him and do what I can for damage control.”

“Okay. Call me when you get there.”

Veronica hung up and turned to see Lori bent over her computer. “What are you doing?”

“Finding you the soonest flight to L.A. Go pack. I’ll drive you to the airport.”

“Yeah, thanks. I guess I might as well pack for the next leg since we start out there anyway.”

Veronica packed in record time and they were quickly on the road. On the way to the airport she explained to Lori what was going on.

“I thought he’d quit drinking.”

“So did I. We are coming up to the anniversary of his father’s death though, so that may have had something to do with it.”

“Poor Richie, I take it they were really close.” Lori looked at her.

Veronica nodded. “Yes. Adam was a wonderful man, and they were very close. He must be hurting pretty bad to have taken such a chance with Ava in the car.”

“So who’s this ‘girlfriend’ that was in the car?”

“I don’t know. As far as I know he hasn’t been seeing anyone....at least not steady.”

Pulling up in front of the doors, Lori got out to help with Veronica’s suitcases. “When will we see you again?”

“Um three weeks or so. We play Nashville on the twenty-fourth.”

“Okay. If there’s anything that we can help you with, let us know.”

“I will. Thanks for the ride.” Veronica hurried into the airport and spent the flight thinking about what to say to Richie.

Chapter 71

Veronica dropped her purse and laptop onto a couch and stomped back to throw open the door. Glancing around she found the band gathered near the elevators. “Jon, could I speak to you for a minute please?”

If the expression on her face – and her crossed arms - wasn’t warning enough of her mood, the icicles dripping from each word certainly were.

David eyed her warily. “Uh oh Bro, I think you’re in deep shit. Tico! Get the popcorn amigo, there’s going to be fireworks.”

Veronica gave him a withering look, turned her attention back to Jon and raised a brow.

“Now sugar, before you get all bent out of shape and gear up to take a strip off of me, let me explain.” Jon beseeched in a placating tone as he quickly approached her.

When his hands reached for her she slapped them away. “Don’t you ‘now sugar’ me John Francis Bongiovi! And I’ll get bent out of shape if I want! I tend to do that when my express wishes are blatantly ignored!”

“I didn’t!”

“Didn’t you?” She pointed towards her room. “So then you’re not expecting me to share that suite with you?”

“Well.....yeah, but...”

“Dammit Jon! I put up with the whole connecting door thing because it seemed to make you feel better and that makes life easier for all of us, but this is going too far!” At last she had an acceptable reason to blow up at him, something she could explain and let him see. Not that she wasn’t furious over his high handedness – but that was only part of the source of her anger. The other part – perhaps the biggest part – was self directed. Despite the pain of the past, despite her fear of opening her heart up to him again, she found herself wanting to give in. Time and proximity had brought up feelings and memories that she’d thought were long buried....that she needed to be buried. She didn’t want to feel the strong attraction between them. She didn’t want to feel the longing to be near him....with him....a part of his life again.....to take a chance and see if he could fulfil the promises he’d been making. But her defences against him were crumbling and it scared the hell out of her. She took refuge in anger. “I told you that I didn’t want anyone thinking we are a couple! Gossip follows this business around like a bad smell. I can’t do my job if people are focussed on you and I instead of the music! And then you do this! Without talking to me!”

“Honey, calm down and let me explain! This was the best solution for our needs. You wanted to be able to do the phoners from here with enough phones for me, Richie and you to listen in on. That was going to take two rooms – and one of them a suite. They didn’t have any with connecting doors, so this was the only way to make it work.”

“We could have used a reception room downstairs!”

“Not without worrying about having to go into the public areas of the hotel. Besides, this way we can be comfortable.”

“So I can show up in my underwear?” Richie perked up.

“Pants please! At least a robe. You in just your underwear is not a sight my poor innocent eyes can handle after only a few hours sleep.” Veronica grimaced.

“That’s a sight you never need to – or should – see.” Jon shot his well endowed wingman a warning look.

Richie just grinned.

Jon eyed Veronica. “So...are you okay about the room arrangements?”

She scowled at him. “Hmpf! Like I have a choice? The high and mighty Rock Star has issued his decree and this lowly peon has to obey.” Stalking over to the door, she swiped her key almost viciously, shoved open the door and disappeared, giving the door an extra push to close it.

“You can have your pick of the bedrooms.” He called after her, grinning. It was probably just as well he couldn’t hear her response.

“You are one fucked up individual bro.” Richie shook his head.

“What do you mean?”

“You’ve been trying to lure that woman back into your life for weeks and you pull a stunt guaranteed to piss her off? And when she blows up – justifiably I might add – you stand here grinning like a fool. That’s fucked up.”

“Yeah, what’s so funny? She’s seriously pissed.” David added.

Jon’s grinned widened even more. “Yeah, but throughout her whole tirade she never once asked for or demanded another room. I told you that she wasn’t as set against me as she tries to let on.”

The others exchanged speculative looks. He might just be right.

“But....why do something you know will upset her and take the chance?” David frowned. It didn’t make sense.

The grin turned into a leer. “Have you ever noticed how her cheeks get all flushed and her eyes sparkle when she’s mad?”

Richie’s brows rose. “I wouldn’t want to be in your shoes if she ever finds out that you did it on purpose just to push her buttons. She’ll make you pay.”

Jon shrugged. “If she finds out. Besides, that only means that she cares. If she didn’t she’d just tell me off and ignore it.”

“Like I said....fucked up.”

Jon laughed. “Time to hit the hay. I’ll see you guys later.” He pointed a finger at Richie. “Don’t be late.”

“Are you kidding? And be in Ronnie’s bad books? No thanks. I’ll be early.”

“Not too early.”

“Uh huh.” Richie yawned. “Nite guys.” He glanced at Jon. “Watch your back, man.”

Jon just laughed and swiped his key through the lock, although when he turned the knob he opened the door slowly and peered carefully around the edge, checking for flying missiles, ignoring the snickers behind him.



Veronica was in the bedroom she’d chosen, her suitcase open on the bed when she heard him come in.

“Honey, I’m home!

Grabbing her bag of toiletries she headed for the bathroom, throwing a glowering look his way as she passed him.

Jon leaned against the bathroom doorframe and watched her wash her face.

She glared at him. “Go away Jon.”

“Anyone ever tell you that you’re beautiful when you’re angry?” He followed her back through the sitting room.

She snorted and walked into her bedroom.

“What? No goodnight kiss?”

“Fuck you Jon!” She slammed the door.

“Any time sweetheart, any time at all.” He called after her.

Veronica growled and stifled the urge to throttle him. Okay, Mr. Rock Star, you want to play that game, I can play too. She set aside her normal t-shirt that she used for a nightgown and rummaged through her suitcase until she found the silk and lace one buried on the bottom. She wasn’t really sure why she’d packed it, but she would put it to good use now.



When the phone rang with their wake up call several hours later Jon answered it, then laid there for a few minutes debating the morning’s agenda, before rising and proceeding to get it started. Noting that Veronica’s door was still closed, he decided to shower before he woke her.

Fifteen minutes later, a towel wrapped around his hips his only covering he knocked softly on her door and opened it. The sight that greeted him stopped the breath in his chest. She was lying on her back, her midnight hair spread over the pillow. Her skin glowed like pearls against the red lace covering her breasts revealed by the blankets that had dropped to her waist. Christ!

He sat gently on the edge of the mattress, reached out and smoothed back a curl from her forehead. Unable to help himself, he let his fingers trail over her shoulder and down her arm. “Nica? It’s time to get up.” He leaned over and touched his lips to hers. “Honey, wake up.”

Veronica sighed and stretched, watching through her lashes as his eyes followed the movement of her body. Her own took in every inch of his firm, muscular flesh. “Mmmm. Okay, I’m up.”

So am I! He cleared his throat and forced himself to look away from the curves of her breasts swelling above the edge of the lace. “Okay. Shower’s free. I’ll order some breakfast...or lunch or whatever. Do you want tea or coffee?”

“Coffee....and some orange juice please.”

“Got it.”

He had just picked up the phone to call room service when she emerged from her room. All thoughts of food – or anything else for that matter – went right out of his head. Fuck me! Please! Her nightgown ended mid thigh, revealing all eight feet or so of her supple, very flexible legs.

“Room Service, how can I help you? Hello? Hello?” The voice in his ear finally broke through his daze.

“Sorry, yeah, I need to order some coffee and some food.”



Richie knocked on the door of the suite a good ten minutes before the first interview was supposed to start. When Jon opened it, Richie grinned. “So she didn’t kill you then.”

Jon grunted. “Not yet.”

Richie’s brows rose at his friend’s disgruntled mutter. When he caught sight of Veronica in the chair by the desk he suspected he knew what Jon’s problem was. She was once again in those form fitting black jeans and that fuzzy sweater that he figured was probably red, that she’d worn to the football game and caused Jon to drool. Her legs were crossed and the swinging of her foot brought his attention to its bare state and the painted nails that were the same colour as her sweater. Poor bugger doesn’t stand a chance against her. No wonder she’s got him spinning. He shot Jon a sympathetic look. “Morning little girl.”

Veronica looked up from her notes. “Hi Jughead. Thank you for being on time.”

“Anything for you darlin’.” At Jon’s snort, he grinned. “What? I ain’t stupid. Gotta stay on her good side.”

“There’s a few other people I could name who I wish shared that attitude.” She commented, not looking up from the papers in front of her.

Jon just grunted. “Give me some incentive and I might consider it.”

She raised a brow, eyed him for a moment, but refused to take the bait. “You’ll have to excuse him Rich. Something he ate must not be agreeing with him. At least I’m assuming that’s what’s making him such a grumpy ass.”

More like the meal he didn’t get. Richie wisely kept his thoughts to himself. Neither one of his companions would appreciate them.

“Can we just get on with this please?” Jon grouched.

Veronica exchanged a wink and a grin with Richie and picked up the phone.

Chapter 70

After sound check the next day Jon went looking for Veronica. He hadn’t seen her since they’d arrived at the arena, and he’d discovered that the more he was around her the more he wanted to spend his free time with her, even if it was to just sit quietly in the same room. He found her presence....soothing....comforting. Whether she was arguing with him or ignoring him or something in between, it didn’t matter, as long as she was nearby. He shook his head at himself. I’m like a teenager with his first crush! But that wasn’t the only reason why he wanted to find her. When they’d met in the hotel hallway – and throughout the trip to the arena - she didn’t, by word or look, refer to what had happened the night before. Of course she had her phone stuck to her ear as usual. And they think I’m bad! But if she wasn’t upset by him putting her to bed and undressing her, then maybe he could push it a little more.

He found her at her desk in the empty control room, in front of her laptop, the ever present phone to her ear. Although her voice was pleasant, her body language said something else. While he watched she alternated between pressing the heel of her free hand on her eye and rolling her head slowly on her shoulders – familiar signs of stress and tension for her. He walked up behind her, set his hands on her shoulders and massaged – gently at first, then harder when he felt how tight her muscles were.

Veronica leaned her head back against him and bit back a groan. God that feels good! He always knew just where her muscles were tight and how to dig and rub to loosen them. She knew she should pull away and not let him so close – especially after last night, but right now his hands felt too good to make him stop. Last night. She didn’t know whether to be mad at him or thank him. It implied an intimacy that she was trying to deny, but on the other hand he did it for her comfort.

Her boss’s voice in her ear brought her focus back to the present. “Yeah, that’s what I think too. Okay, I’ll reassess using those parameters. I’ll get that to you in the next couple days. Other than that, I’ll continue as planned. Right. Okay. Thanks Vince. Bye.”

Veronica’s head dropped forward as knowing fingers worked from her shoulders up her neck to the base of her skull. “Mmmm.. yeah...right there.”

Jon chuckled and pressed a little harder. “Too hard?” He got a low groan in response. “I’ll take that as a no.” Unable to help himself, he leaned down and brushed his lips across her nape and up the side her neck to nuzzle her ear. “Vince giving you a hard time?”

“No.” She had to stop and clear her throat. The velvety touch of his lips and the hot gust of his breath, combined with his nearness, sent a shiver down her spine and brought all of her senses to full attention. “He just.....” She swallowed heavily, her mouth suddenly going dry at the feel of his teeth scraping her lobe. “He just wants a few things added to my report. Jon, stop.”

“Why?” He licked and nibbled and sucked her ear and the skin beneath it. She’d always been super sensitive there. It had always been his go to spot – guaranteed to get her juices flowing. He could feel her body’s instant reaction to his ministrations and his own responded accordingly. “We both know how much you like it. Don’t deny yourself Nica. Feel it. Feel the blood burning in your veins, your skin tingling....your nipples hardening.” He glanced down her chest and grinned. “Feel all of it Nica. Let yourself enjoy it...and remember that I can give you more.”

“Johnny....” His name was a sigh on her lips. Voices in the hallway had her stiffening and shaking her scattered wits back in place. “Jon you have to stop.”

He could have cheerfully strangled whoever it was in the hallway. Damn it, I had her! His saner side acknowledged that it was just as well. The plan was to tempt her, tease her, and make her admit that she still had feelings – strong feelings - for him. The more he ramped up her frustration the better. Unfortunately that also meant ramping up his own. “Okay. I’ll stop. For now.” He kissed her neck again and stepped back. “Let’s go get some dinner.”

Veronica stared at him as if he’d lost his mind. Did he really think she would – or could – just calmly trot off and share a table and a meal with him? When she was about ready to jump out of her skin.....or throw him down on that table and have him finish what he started? Damn him! Why can’t he just forget about it and leave me alone? Why does he keep tormenting me with what I can’t have? Before she could voice her protest, the guys appeared in the doorway.

“There you are! Are we going to eat or what bro?” Richie asked.

“Yeah, let’s go.” Jon replied.

“You coming with us Ronnie?” David raised his brows in question.

She hesitated. “I have a lot of work to do.”

Jon smirked. “Scared?”

Veronica snorted. “Of you? Not in this lifetime.” Not physically anyway. Emotionally? Well, that’s another story.

“Then get your ass in gear little girl, and let’s get the van moving, I’m starving!”

“When aren’t you Jughead?” She retorted dryly.

“When he’s sleeping.” Tico answered.

Richie shrugged. “I’ve got an extra foot of body to feed than you do.”

Tico flipped him off.



Throughout dinner and the after party, and even most of the next day, Jon didn’t avoid Veronica, but he didn’t try to crowd her either. His aim was twofold. First, to not be predictable and throw her off balance again, and second, to give himself some cooling down room. When he’d come up with his great plan he hadn’t considered what the affect would be on himself.

For her part, Veronica didn’t know quite what to make of Jon’s behaviour. One minute he was trying to get into her pants, the next he was treating her like just another staff member. She suspected that his hot and cold routine was an attempt to mess with her head, but she was too busy and too tired to try and figure out what he was up to. Once she got through Dubai she would be able to deal with him. Or maybe if she kept ignoring it, he’d give up and leave her alone.

Hitting enter on her laptop, she pushed back from her desk in the control room – it felt like she lived there these days – glanced at her watch and decided that there was enough time before the show started to update Jon on what she’d arranged for the Dubai interviews and the American ones she’d rescheduled.

She knocked twice on his dressing room door. “Jon?”

“Come on in Ronnie.”

Veronica opened the door, stepped into the room and glanced around to find him standing bare chested in front of his wardrobe. The door shut behind her. She wasn’t even aware of her gaze licking over his sculpted, fur covered display.....but Jon was.

He smirked. “Did you need something or did you just come to visit?”

She cleared her throat and gathered her scattered thoughts. “Umm...I wanted to show you what I’ve done with your schedule. Where’s your phone?”

Jon looked around and frowned. He walked over to the table and started sifting through the items covering it. Lifting a towel, he revealed the phone, picked it up and handed it to her. Veronica opened it, clicked on the schedule and scrolled forward two days to Fargo. Jon stepped closer to read over her shoulder.

She swallowed heavily. That damn cologne is going to be the death of me! It’s not right for a man to smell that good! “So I moved a couple print interviews until DesMoines and put Dubai here, here and here. I’ve spoken to the DJs and they’ll be ready and waiting. We can call from your room or mine, whichever you want, we just need to tell Richie which one.”

He couldn’t resist. “Your room or mine? I like the sounds of that.” His voice was a deep growl in her ear.

“Jon....don’t.” She stepped away – or tried to.

He flicked the towel he was still holding around her neck and wrapped the ends around his hands. One hard tug pulled her off balance and she fell against him, her hands coming up reflexively to brace against his chest. “You’re so damn beautiful! Why do you keep trying to fight this Nica? Don’t you remember how good we are together? How well we fit together?” He brushed his lips over hers. “You used to always say that you loved the way I taste.” His tongue dipped inside. “The way my skin felt.” Another taste. “The way my hands and lips felt on your skin.” A firmer, longer kiss. “The way it felt when I was buried deep inside you and your hot...wet.....flesh held me so tight.”

Her fingers curled into the soft hair covering his chest. “Johnny.” Damn you! She was mesmerized by his voice and the memories his words evoked and couldn’t summon the strength to pull away. In fact, her legs were shaking so bad she was afraid she was going to collapse into a puddle at his feet.

The sighing of his name and the trembling of her body had him gathering her closer, pressing their bodies together from shoulder to knee. He captured her lips again in a kiss that very quickly became ravenous.

Veronica whimpered at the feel of his fur and hot flesh under her fingers and his hardening erection nudging the juncture of her thighs. She could feel herself being sucked under his spell and fought against it. “Jon....Jon stop.”

“Don’t want to.” When she turned her head to break the kiss he just changed his target to that spot on her neck. She moaned. Jon grinned. “And you don’t really want me to. I want you Nica. I want to make love to you. I want to go to sleep with you and wake up with you in the morning. I want to spend time with you. Let me in Nica. Let me show you that I can bring you pleasure.”

Don’t do it! Remember how much he hurt you! He hasn’t changed. Not really. Her head reminded her of the past. But the circumstances have changed. You’re not stupid kids anymore. You loved him more than life once and he made your world complete. What if you could have that again without the pain? Was her body’s counter argument. But don’t forget his kids....the constant reminder of what you lost and can never get back. Her heart came back with the biggest sticking point – and the one she could find no positive response to.

Veronica forced herself to push at his chest. “Jon. No. Stop.”

He ignored her.

She pushed harder. “Jon! Stop!”

Jon sighed and straightened. One hand lifted to caress her cheek while he studied her eyes. “Sweetheart, I know you’re scared and that you think it could never work between us, but I think...no I know you’re wrong. What we feel is too strong to ignore.” He paused. “A lot was taken from you a long time ago. I can give it back to you, if you’ll let me. You can have it all again Nica. All you have to do is say yes.”

Veronica could only shake her head and blink back her tears.

The corners of his mouth curved into a slight smile and he kissed her gently. “Don’t be so stubborn. Just think about it. Don’t dismiss me...us....out of hand. We can make it work if you’ll only give us a chance.” He stepped back and turned to the wardrobe. “Help me pick out a shirt?”

Lost in thought, Veronica walked over, pulled out her favourite and handed it to him.

Jon grinned. “Thanks.”

Veronica just nodded and left the room, her mind swirling with his words. How can he be so damn sure? An hour later she scolded herself about wanting to live in the past and forced herself to focus on the future. Luckily for her piece of mind Jon seemed to sense her determination to keep that wall between them and backed off.

Or she thought he had.

Until she entered her hotel room in Fargo.

Standing in the living room of the two bedroom suite, Veronica felt her temper rocket to the boiling point. It didn’t take a brain surgeon to know who the other bedroom was for. “I’m going to fucking kill him!”