Chapter Nine

Jon led her out and opened the door to the car making sure she was seated in the plush interior of his sports car before closing the door after her.

Jesse sat there buckling herself in; her mind was in a daze. The kiss just moments before had left her bedazzled. She wanted nothing more than to let go with Jon, it felt right, but it felt so wrong to Jason as well. She knew that would eventually come to this crossroad, she hadn’t expected to so soon, with the internet dating, it was more to keep people from hassling her and she never expected or wanted anything more than a causal date. But the way he looked at her, and the way he poetically kissed her, had her wanting for more.
She was interrupted in her thoughts by him climbing in the other side.

“You ok babe?” he asked gently wanting to make sure she was ok, he didn’t want to scare her off at any instance, especially not now, when he knew every waking minute that his attraction to her was growing stronger.

“I am fine Jon, so where are taking me?” she asked

“Ahh now that would be telling” he said as he clicked the ignition into life and started pulling away from the complex.

They drove for longer than it seemed to the outskirts of Sayreville chatting about things and learning about each other a little more, Jon mainly talked about the band and how things had changed so much in the music industry in the span he’d been involved in it and she did the same about fashion and the cut throat industry she was in, till Jon finally pulled into a dusted track that led to a stone cottage type building with a few cars parked outside.

“I hope you like Italian, as that’s where we are” he said as he unfastened the seat belt popping hers at the same time.

“Love it” she replied as she went to open the door on her side.
"Wait wait, let me at least pretend to be a gentleman this once” he said as flew around to her side and helped her out of the car.

“Why thank you Mr Bon Jovi” she said.

“Actually it’s Mr Bongiovi to you” he said with a smirk.

She raised her eyebrows “That’s your real last name? Wow, its very, Italian” she replied realizing where his interest in Italian food probably came from.

“You got me” he said flicking his palms out to the air to face her.
They walked in to a very secluded restaurant. The waiter recognised Jon immediately.

“Mr Bon Jovi, what a surprise” he looked over the far side of the room

“Your usual is available” he said smiling at Jesse.

“Thanks, that would be fantastic Guy” he said as Guy now showed them to a secluded booth in the corner. No one really could see them as the backing of the booth faced the restaurant with the exception of the entrance. Lit with a very broken in candle in a wine bottle the table was delicately set with all the trimmings. They were seated.

“Jess did you want a wine? What do you drink?” he asked as Guy waited for their order.

“Anything, you choose” she said

“Guy we’ll take a bottle of your finest Merlot to start with” he said to the waiter, Guy nodded and rushed away.

“This place is amazing, I didn’t know it even existed” she breathed taking in the warm dim intimate surroundings.

“Its one of the best kept secrets, and I love it” Jon said. Jesse couldn’t help but wonder how many dates he’d brought here. Or if he’d frequented the place with his wife, it didn’t bother her, as she could see what attracted him to the place.
Guy brought back the wine and poured two generous glasses after Jon tasted and approved the selection. The sass and class oozed from the man, Jesse clearly could see that.

“So you’re off to Nashville next week?” Jesse asked taking a long sip of the wine, the smooth rich warm liquid easily sat well with her.

“Yes, I am very excited, it will be so good to get back to it, we all are really excited” and then Jon’s cell phone buzzed as if he knew he was being talked about.

“Sorry” Jon mouthed as he answered the call.

“Mr Sambora, how can I help you?” Jon asked in a professional tone.

Richie snorted “I’m sorry I didn’t know you were in an audience with the queen right now” he laughed at his friends address to him.

“No I am not, well not the British one” flashing Jesse a grin, “but I am at dinner” he said making Richie milk him for the information

“Dinner? You didn’t say anything about dinner, who ya with?” Richie asked

“Someone” Jon said winking at Jesse in good spirit, she could see instantly just from the one sided phone call the repore that he had with Richie.

“Ohhhh its Jesse!” Richie said rather too loudly. Jon tried to hide his embarrassment.

“A bit louder Rich I don’t think the old couple over the way heard you” he said.

“Sorry Kidd, how did that happen? What the hell happened this afternoon?” he asked knowing that was not even on the agenda.

“It just did” Jon simply answered not wanting to tell Richie he had tried to come up with plans to get their paths to cross before finally thinking of one.

“Can I talk to her?” Richie asked

“What? No” Jon said laughing. Jesse held out her hand for the phone.

“God you are loud Sambora, here she is” Jon said handing the phone to her.

“Sorry about this” Jon said embarrassed.

“You’ve met my best friend, its only fair” she said as she took Jon’s phone and placed it to her ear.

“Hello Richie?” she asked

“Hello darlin, how would ya be this evening? I hope my little brother is behaving himself” Richie jibbed.

“I am very well thanks, and yes, that he is. He is being very sweet” she added

“Kidd, sweet?” Richie’s snort filled the earpiece again.

“Sorry Jess, hey can I call you Jess? You can call me Rich, hell you can call me anything you like” he said flirtatiously, Jesse knew it was just his way instantly it wasn’t sleazy as most guys would sound.

“Jess is absolutely fine, Rich” she said

“Well that’s fan tiddly tastic, now you listen if he steps out line, you just let me know, and if you get bored with him and want to trade up, you know where I am” Richie said officially. Jesse burst out laughing. Jon looked worried, often Richie’s brashness didn’t sit well with newcomers, but it seemed Jesse was taking in her stride.

“I will keep that in mind, nice talking to you” she said handing the phone back to Jon.

“I am not even going to ask Rich, anyway I will call you tomorrow” Jon said wanting to get back to his date.

“Yip do that Kidd, you lucky bastard, her laugh is sexy as hell” Richie said as they hung up.

“Sorry about that” Jon said turning off his cell phone, no more interruptions tonight.

“He’s great, I am only sorry I wasn’t coherent enough to meet him in person that night at the bar” she said.

“Well I will make sure you get the chance, it’s an experience” Jon said as he flipped opened the menu.

“I look forward to it” she said with a grin not meeting his gaze reading the menu, but Jon caught it alright.

After generous servings of cannelloni and garlic bread they opted for the Tiramisu with freshly grounded coffee.

“I have never eaten anything so amazing” Jesse swooned as she wrapped her lips around the fork holding her dessert.
Jon chuckled.

“You know you wouldn’t be a woman if you didn’t orgasm over desserts” he chuckled.

“Hey” she said mock offended

“Its just so damn good, and the best part is…” she trailed off enjoying the rich sweet taste of the dessert before continuing, licking her lips.

“Is that you don’t have to cook it breakfast in the morning” she finished. Jon was mid coffee sip when he choked.

“You ok?” Jesse asked acting concerned knowing he was absolutely fine.

“You woman, are insatiable, you really are” he said freely. And I love it he continued in his head.

She smiled and too soon they were back in his car driving back to her place. It was late, she didn’t want the night to end, but she didn’t want to go to that place that a date generally did, and probably more importantly a date with Jon Bon Jovi did. She had never enjoyed company more than she had tonight, just someone being there, that seemed to understand her, their passions for their career, and their equalled drive for success and perfection made her appreciate him even more. They arrived back at the complex, Jon walked her to the door, his stomach was doing flip flops, and he knew he had to leave her at the door tonight, if he ever had a chance with her. She turned to him.

“Thank you for dinner and you really didn’t have to pay” she said

“Oh yes I did, you’re going to make me the best father in the world in two weeks time” he smiled down at her.

“I hope so” she said she took a deep breath.

“Thank you Jon, I really did have a good night, in fact the best in awhile and the best dinner in forever” she added.

“You are very welcome, and it was my pleasure, and maybe we could do it again, soon?” he asked not wanting to press her. But he didn’t need to.

“I would like that” she said. She looked up at him and reached forward and brushed her lips against his cheek. She knew she wanted more, but something inside her was pulling at her screaming at her to hold back. He savoured her kiss, taking every inch of his will not to force her kiss back. He waited till she unlocked her door.

“Goodnight Jess” he said quietly to her “Sweet dreams” he said as he went to turn around and walk back to his car. The sound of the door closing didn’t come.

“Jon?” she called out into the darkness. He stopped and turned around walking back to her, she was leaning against the door, her body slightly trembling, and she looked scared as hell.

“What is it?” he quickly asked concerned. Her brown eyes were brimming thick with mist.

“Will you stay with me? And just hold me?” she asked.

Chapter Eight

Jon watched her pour the coffee into two mugs, Jesse was very aware of the pair of smoky blue eyes that were firmly on her, she felt a little uncomfortable but it wasn’t in a bad way.
She handed one out to him and he took it from her, his fingers lightly brushing hers.

“So tell me, Steph, what is she into, tell me about her, I always like to get a feel for my subject” Jesse said as she sat down in the chair crossing her legs to reveal some very creamy shapely legs, Jon couldn’t help but stare, and he knew he’s been busted when he met her gaze and her eyebrow was raised at him with a smile on her face to match.

“Uh right, sure” Jon said snapping back to life and sitting down and telling her about Stephanie, he didn’t realize that he started rambling what a great girl she was, before realizing a good fifteen minutes had gone past.

“Sorry” he chuckled. Jesse beamed.

“I can tell you are very proud of her, and love her a lot. It’s very endearing” she said. And sexy she thought.

“I do, all of my children. I love more than anything in this world. When you become a parent, just things before that seemed so important, are so not anymore. Your whole perspective changes, the reason for breathing does too.” He explained hoping he wasn’t gushing too much.

“I can only imagine” she said softly trailing away in thought. Jon wanted to slap himself going on so much, when he realized she was thinking about how short changed she probably felt right now.

“Anyway, I think I know what I want to do for her” Jesse said breaking the poignant silence. She stood up.

“I am thinking some jeans, I will do some embroider pattern on them, just in stitching, but it would be subtle, and then a leather jacket – kinda like the one I was wearing, it’s a more vinyl looking jacket with an edge” she trailed off deep in thought, Jon could tell she was calculating exactly in her head how it would look. It was killing him watching her passion come through her eyes. One thing Jon was attracted to was passion for career, like him he was very serious about what he did and he loved every second of it.

“That’s sounds perfect, she would love that” Jon said knowing she really would.

“So how much do I owe you for all that?” Jon asked her softly.

“Well I haven’t even made it yet, and I am sure I can do discount, for my knight” she said not believing she just threw a wink at him.
Jon caught the wink and it sizzled quickly on his soul.

“How about dinner?” he asked, he hadn’t meant to say it out loud but it just came right out. He sat bracing himself for the answer sure she would refuse.

“Dinner would be nice” she replied after thinking about it. Jon smiled broadly.

“Excellent, but the place I was going to take you doesn’t accept satin robes” he chuckled. She flushed a little having forgotten all this tikme she was still in her robe.

“I will go and get changed then” she said throwing the cushion at him before running up the stairs. At the top of the stairs her heart was racing as she leant back on the bedroom door closing her eyes.
What was she doing? She freely was so comfortable being in this man’s presence, she never questioned once his motives for being here. It was weird; there was an aura of calmness around him. It was just where they both needed to be right now it seemed; a little companionship never hurt a man and a woman before did it?

Jon waited downstairs, he walked over to the table where all her designs were, sketches littered the table, he marvelled over the sketches that were littered across the table. She really was talented. Stray pieces of fabric dotted the table, some had been sewn, and that she had been obviously matching and trying out different combinations.

His attention turned back to the walls of pictures and designs, and his eyes again fell on a different one, it was a black and white picture of her and obviously Jason sitting on the beach, looking at each other, oblivious to anyone that was around with that look, every couple wanted to have for each other. Jon sighed. Most of him felt sorry for their love lost, but a small, teeny part was glad he now had the chance to get to know her better. He almost didn’t hear her come back in, it was her spicy provocative he could smell first. He turned and his breath caught in his throat. She was wearing a light black slip dress that rested about her knees hugging her curves all the way down and notably accentuating her breasts, with a white chiffon scarf around her neck and killer black heels to match, her hair was loose around her face.

“You look amazing” he said

“Thanks Jon, it feels nice to dress up again” she admitted freely to him. Just then as if on queue I’ll be there for you came on the CD player.

“May I?” he asked as he held out his hand to her. She nodded placing her hand in his. She looked unsure but Jon pulled her in slowly and placed his and on the small of her back bringing her stomach to push lightly against his groin, he slowly swayed her leaning forward and slowly at a whispers edge whispered into her ear swinging her slowly.


I’ll be there for you,
These five words I swear to you
When you breathe I’ll be the air for you
I’ll be, I’ll be there
For you

Jesse felt her whole body tingle with goose bumps the throaty huskiness of his voice that vibrated in her ear and warm breath on neck almost made her knees buckle but she fought through it. He pulled her back and looked into her eyes, she had a longing clearly there, for someone to hold her just like he just had, her eyes were slowly glassing over deep in emotion.

He leaned forward so slowly never taking his eyes off hers for a second, as with just one hint of uncertainty he would pull away; she closed her eyes just as his lips were inches from hers. He brushed his lips so lightly across hers; just catching what was possibly berry scented lip-gloss, on the edges of his own lips. The kiss was so light that it almost like it never had happened. He slowly pulled away and smiled at her. She smiled back, he knew this was such a big thing for her, he wasn’t about to push her, as one lone tear slipped down her cheek he wiped it softly away with his thumb and kissed the tear away on his own thumb.

“So ready for dinner then?” he asked moving his arm to her shoulder showing her the door. Jesse couldn’t even muster a yes, so she just nodded as she grabbed her purse flicking the lights on the way out.

Chapter Seven

“What else do you want me to say?” Jesse giggled at her friend on the other end of the phone who was asking ten thousand questions a millisecond.

“So that’s it? He just stayed – you had breakfast and he went home?” Kia asked not believing her friend at all. Had she seen him?

“Yes Kia, it wasn’t like that at all. I am sure Jon Bon Jovi has many a woman waiting in the wings, that didn’t even come into it. He was a gentleman, one hundred percent” she explained as she lay back on her bed freshly showered cocooned in the fluffy towel she was wearing.

“Well he was very sweet to look after you, but Jesse something tells me he doesn’t just stay over at random peoples places, he must have had a reason. I mean considering who he is, it’s too dangerous” Kia said. She wasn’t going to convince Jesse that there was anymore motive than simply to look out or her.

“He was just being polite, you know he’s coming through a divorce anyway, and he seems still pretty cut up about it” Jesse explained.

“He told you all this?” Kia sounded surprised

“Yeah we talked at breakfast” she said off handily.

“Did you tell him about Jason?” Kia asked knowing Jesse didn’t just talk to anyone about what happened. Hell, she still found it hard to talk to her about what happened.

“Yes I did, he was very understanding” Jesse said. Kia smiled. She had only ever been in the room with the two of them ten seconds, but she just had this feeling that things weren’t over at all.

“So maybe… this is perfect, you’re both looking for company… and maybe just some casual sex” Kia suggested chuckling.

“Kia! No way, I am not that type of girl” Jesse exploded laughing thinking how ridiculous her friend’s suggestion sounded. I mean, there was nothing wrong with Jon, there was everything right with the man, but no, she couldn’t even think that.
Kia just smiled wryly wishing she could see Jesse’s face about now to really see what was going on in her head.

“So are you seeing him again?” Kia asked

“No, no plans too, we just said goodbye, he gave me his card incase I needed anything, I can’t think what I would need from him again” Jesse said

“I can think of one thing” Kia said quietly.

“What was that?” Jesse asked not hearing her friend.

“Nothing, well I guess if he wants to see you again he will find a way” she said.

“Yeah, I am not holding my breath. Anyway hun, I need to run and get these designs finished to take into the office for tomorrow, but call me and we’ll do coffee in the week” she said.

“Ok Jess, you know where I am if you need me” Kia said, Jesse smiled, Kia always signed off with that line.
She was lucky to have such a good friend through all the pain over the last six months. Jesse hadn’t been close to her parents but they had been more supportive since Jason had died, but it didn’t help that they lived all the way over in Cali. She hung up and lay staring at the ceiling closing her eyes for a second, her head still slightly hazy from the previous night.
She visualized her one love, Jason, it was her happy place. This time it was the last time they went to the beach together walking along the sand holding hands and giggling like teenagers in love. A smile crept across Jesse’s face, she looked at Jason to lean in and kiss him, except this time it wasn’t, and it was a different face, defined right down to the strong jaw line, framed with sandy blond tresses
The blue eyes filled her heart with a wind of warmth she could just about feel She bolted upright when she realized it was Jon, awaking herself from her daydream, the sound of her heart beating resounded in his ears.

“Its ok, its just you’ve seen him lately, that’s all” she tried to convince herself, she decided to end her happy place dream and walked to the kitchen to prepare some late lunch for herself before starting work on her designs, robing herself in a navy satin knee high robe she wondered back downstairs. She picked up his coffee cup that he’d left on the table, and stared it for a bit before placing it in the dishwasher. She tidied up and prepared a turkey and mayo sandwich. Tying her hair back in a twist she stuck a pen through the middle of it to hold it together, and placed her black rimmed glasses on as she scoured over the designs on the table she had sketched last night. She lit a couple of aroma therapy candles and popped in a cd to her player, she chuckled when she picked up her only Bon Jovi cd, that Jason had bought her, This Left feels right, she always loved easy listening when she was working, so he bought her the stripped down version of the group’s hits from a recommendation from a friend. She liked it as it relaxed her when she needed to chill.

She was just studying the new dress line she was planning for spring when a knock at the door took her off guard. She checked her watch, who was it? Kia most probably, as she wasn’t expecting anyone, and Kia often would pop around minutes after they’d spoken on the phone bringing coffee and cookies with her.
Jess rushed to the door.

“I knew it would be you” she said as she swung open the door but to her surprise it wasn’t Kia at all.

Jon had no idea why he was driving out again, he knew where he was going but he couldn’t make a decision whether it was a good idea or not, he pulled into the complex and sat in the car for a bit. He didn’t want to seem pushy, as he knew her fragile state. And really he didn’t want to push anything at all, he simply wanted to see her, and ask if she could make Steph some clothes, that was it, this was a business call and that’s all.

‘Yeah right Kidd’ he sniggered to himself. It was an excuse. He wanted something very special for Steph for her birthday. But he knew damn well why he was here; something was attracting the hell out of him to her. He straightened himself up after having been changed and showered at home. He now had on a pair of crisp jeans with a silky casual navy button down shirt polished off with some well worn black boots. He locked the car and walked to her apartment. He could hear music playing softly behind the door. He was about to knock when he heard the unmistakeable sound of his own voice, she was listening to him. He chuckled before knocking on the door.

“I knew it would be you” she said so proudly until she met his stare.
Her robe was hugging her body very neatly, her hair pulled up in a loose roll, with the stray strand or two falling around her face, and the glasses, the glasses made her look even sexier if it was all possible. Jon pulled his eyes away from roaming up and down her body to say something.

“Hey baby” he said as he casually had his hands in his jeans.

“Uh – Jon, hi... uh…” it took her all of ten seconds to register, what she was wearing, and what was playing on her stereo, a hint of pink filled her cheeks.

“Good song” he commented as the acoustic version of Born to be my baby came on.

“It’s not bad, I have heard the lead singer is a bit arrogant” she teased as she held the door open for him to come in.

“Hey” he said wanting to lightly smack her but he refrained from doing so.

“But I am impressed” he said turning towards her. “This album usually is owned by big fans” he said his eyes dancing.

She chuckled. “Jason bought it for me, he knows when I do my designs, I chill out, it’s my niche, he thought that it would be good music to do that too” she paused “And he was right” she smiled before walking back to the kitchen flicking on he coffee machine.
Jon smiled, she knew already his drink.

“Anyway what are you doing here? I mean I don’t mind” she quickly said “I was just surprised to see you so soon” she chuckled.
Jon was mesmerized at the way he smile reached her eyes when she laughed.

“Oh right, yes, well I hope you don’t mind, I didn’t have your office number, but you see its my daughters 14th birthday in a couple of weeks, and well, lets just say she likes her own style, and having things one of a kind…. And I was thinking… I could get something made for her from you” Jon explained. Jesse listened and nodded, she usually didn’t do teen clothes, but in all honestly lately she had been giving some thought to penetrating that market as well.
And again it was the least she could do for what he did for her.

“I’ll do it” she said slipping her glasses back up the bridge of her nose.
Jon broke out in a smile that just about floored her.

“That is great news. Now, just one thing though” he said very seriously.
Uh oh, Jesse thought.

“What’s that?” she asked.

“I have no idea what she would want” Jesse burst out laughing.

“What? I mean I don’t know what’s hot and what’s not” Jon said, he looked at her a little longer, and cracked a wry smile.

“Well I do, just not in clothes” he hoped he hadn’t overstepped the mark with that comment. But she seemed undeterred; she nodded silently acknowledging the complement.

“Well, to be truthful I have some ideas, how about I get us a coffee and we can talk” she suggested as she walked towards the now brewing coffee perk.

“That sounds perfect” Jon replied watching her shapely behind walk away from him. Perfect.

Chapter Six

Jon kept walking around the block to the apartment complex that he called home. He actually owned most of the building but he lived in the penthouse which is secure and had a built in studio that took care of all needs.

“Hey Danny” he said as he breezed past the doorman.

“Hey boss, the guys are already up in your place, hope you don’t mind me letting them in” he said. Danny was new so he was still apprehensive about whom and who not to let into Jon’s place.

“Goes without saying, unless of course you know I have a lady in there” Jon winked as he caught the lift up. He was soon opening the door to the expansive apartment, hearing laughter coming wafting in from the kitchen.

“Make yourselves at home” he chuckled as he walked through to the kitchen where the three men he called brothers and his band mates were.

“Hey look who finally decided to join us” David ribbed.
Richie just smirked.

“So where were you all this time? Huh big guy?” he asked sipping a beer that they had all helped themselves to out of his fridge.
Jon ignored Richie and acknowledged Tico.

“Hey Teek” he said patting him on the shoulder.

“Hey Teek nothing!, spare us the bullshit, where were you last night, Rich tells us that you were at a young damsels place” Tico beamed.
Jon reached for a beer out of the fridge and popped the cap.

“We aren’t going to move on from here are we?” he jokingly asked his band.

“Na uh, now spill” David demanded as the three of them sat opposite Jon at the breakfast bar in the kitchen.

“I just stayed there with her, on the chair till this morning and then I had to tell her what happened to her last night, since she couldn’t remember and what the hell I was doing in her house” he explained.

“And……………” Tico started. Jon smiled.

“I had breakfast with her, and we talked about things. Turns out she was meeting that creep from a dating site on the internet” he explained.

“The internet, she’s hot, why would she have to use the internet to get a date?” Richie asked surprised.
Jon sighed and looked down at his beer, he ran his hand through his hair.

“She’s a widow, he husband was killed in Iraq about six months ago” he explained.

“Christ, that’s just awful” Richie muttered shaking his head. Watching Jon talk about her, he could see he had already crossed the line of caring about a woman to make her safe, to caring about a woman for who she was.

“Are you seeing her again?” David asked enquiring

“No, I gave her my card and we said goodbye, it was kinda rushed” Jon said recalling the hurry they experienced.

David grinned “You want to see her again though don’t you” he said winking at the other two.

“Oh now come on, I won’t say I don’t, but yeah.. She’s…. “He trailed off. Beautiful.

Tico just chuckled to himself. It was about time Jon had something to distract him from the divorce and being lonely.

“You know, bro, because I am nice, and I mean you did stay with her. You can have her” Richie said his eyes dancing. David snorted.

“Oh why thank you Richie, but she isn’t mine. It’s not like that, I just want to –“

“Save her? Be her hero?” Tico asked, knowing how Jon operated. He loved to be wanted and feel like he had a purpose in his relationships.

“Hey, now that’s not fair” he snapped a little too quickly. And then he realised Tico was joking.

“Sorry” he muttered.

“Its ok Kidd, just do what you want to do with this” he said sipping his beer.

“Now anyway – aren’t we here to discuss the important things like lets record this album” Richie said changing the subject seeing that they were all starting to push Jon’s buttons a little.

“Yes Rich, indeed, I will need to organise some time in the studio in Nashville” Jon said returning to his business tone like voice.

“Already done, spoke to Mac before it’s ours from Friday next week for as long as we want, well up to a month at first” Richie explained.

“Great sounds good, that will give me time to get some affairs in order” Jon said.

“Or started” Tico chuckled. David elbowed him in the ribs.
Jon just rolled his eyes; he knew the guys loved taking him to town, especially now he was single. They all chatted for the next hour sorting out where they would be in a week’s time. After everyone had left again Richie stayed behind.

“So Kidd, what are you going to do?” Richie asked

“What do you mean? Probably take a shower, and then go and see the kids” he replied. Richie rolled his eyes.
“Noo about Jesse” he asked

“What do you mean?” Jon asked nonchalantly.

“Oh come on Kidd, twenty odd years I have known you’re ugly mug, I know when you’re hooked, it’s my job” Richie nodded officially.
Jon laughed.

“Well I don’t know Rich, I don’t know about this one. It’s different. We’ve both had a lot of shit and I am not sure she is even ready to move on from the hell she’s been through, I think she’s just trying to make the people around her think she is” Jon said going back to his conversation with her.
Richie just nodded. Hook line and Sinker. Jon was sunk. He could tell.

“Well my only advice, and you know my advice on woman is always tenfold” Richie snorted. Jon grinned and beckoned him to continue.

"Is go for it, try that old ancient approach called… friends, I think its when a man and woman spend time together, like each other but for now that’s all it is, I have no idea what that may be like” Richie said looking off into the distance trying to imagine it till a smirk broke out over his face.

“You’re one of a kind Sambora, and you know what?” Jon asked.

“What’s that Kidd?” Richie asked grabbing his keys.

“I wouldn’t change ya for the world” he said Richie smiled and they met briefly in a man hug.

“Ok Kidd, say hi to the tribe for me, call ya later” he said as he exited the room.

Jon quickly showered throwing on some fresh jeans and a Soul hoodie and driving around to Dot’s place to see the kids, he’d said he would probably be over sometime to see them. He spent a good couple of hours there with his children learning about the latest video games and even challenging Jesse to a game or two and getting a list off Stephanie what she wanted for her upcoming birthday. Designer clothes, all the modern teenager needs. Then it clicked. Clothing, Jesse... an idea formulated in his head spreading a huge smile across his face at the same time.

Chapter Five

Jesse stared down for the longest time, she still wasn’t totally comfortable talking about it, and especially to someone she hardly knew. The emptiness in her heart started to radiate through her body just at the thought of everything that had happened. It must have been at least a minute before she looked up at Jon seeing nothing but warmth shining from his eyes. He hoped he wasn’t being too forward by placing his hand out to hers and giving it a squeeze.

“Its ok Jesse, you can tell me” he said before pulling it away.

“Jason and I were married around five years, he was in the military, had been since he was eighteen” she took a deep breath. Jon just listened attentively and took another sip of his coffee.

“He was drafted to Iraq about a year ago, and was meant to be there six months, he had to go, he was very committed to his sense of duty so I was never going to stop him, in fact it was one of the things that attracted me to him in the first place” she smiled. Jon chuckled, the way she was talking about her husband made his heart melt, he hadn’t felt that way in a long time and it was nice to know that love still existed out there. Even if it had been taken away from Jesse in cold blood.

“Anyway, he called to tell me that he was coming home about six months ago, and I was so excited, in fact we both were, as we wanted to start a family and everything” she said as she looked down again.

The sound of a door knocking in the middle of the next night still rang true in her ears, she had no idea who was at her door at this time of night. She got up and wrapped her robe around herself and raced down the stairs, a small hope bubbling inside her inside her told her Jason had surprised her and came home earlier than he said he would be, he often did little things like that…. When she opened the door two military officers were standing there.
“Mrs Adams?” they asked officially, the second officer looking at her already sympathetically.
She nodded, words escaping her as her body began to shake.
“I’m sorry to inform you but Lt Jason Adams has died a few hours ago….” He trailed off to tell her how he was on route with a few other officers to the border so they could make their way to the airport when their car was ambushed by some militants and they were killed instantly. Jason was gone, her beloved soul mate, the man who made her life worth living, the man whose kiss and touch warmed her heart to her very core and fuelled her desire and passion for life, was gone.

Jon watched her as she told him the story of the officers coming to tell her husband had died, only hours away from escaping the war zone to be back in her arms.

“Oh Jesse, baby I am so sorry” he said softly again placing his hand on hers, but this time he left it there.
The pain that radiated through her body that fateful night, was still evident in her eyes, as she trembled fighting to keep herself under control in front of Jon. A tear slipped free from her eye down her cheek hitting the plate below.

“What gets me the most Jon” she continued, he could see her eyes change from the sadness to now a stormy quality.

“Is that, I understand he gave his life for his country... but what the hell did he die for?” she asked angrily staring him down as if him that was personally responsible for this mess of a war.

“You have a fine point there” he conceded shaking his head. He agreed with her. He had no idea what this country was doing sometimes.
She shook her head.

“I’m sorry Jon, sometimes I can do this fine, and sometimes...” she trailed off. Jon wanted nothing more than to pull her into his arms right then and tell her it was going to be ok, but the reality was he couldn’t fix this, it was bigger than he was, so he just squeezed her hand, her tears were tugging hard at his heartstrings.

“It’s ok Jesse; you don’t need to tell me anymore” the worry lines evident on his forehead. Jesse pulled her hand away from his and wiped her cheek pulling herself together.

“Anyway, that’s it. So for the last six months I threw myself into work and everything, until recently, friends felt it was time for me to try and get back to normality” she explained.

“How do you feel about that?” Jon asked her.

“I don’t know for sure Jon, I mean, Jason made me promise before he went away if anything should happen, he wanted me to move on, he wanted me to be happy. Being a military wife, you always have to prepared I guess, but you never think it’s going to happen to you” she explained finally recomposing herself tucking a stand of her rich brown hair behind her ear.

Jon nodded, he understood what she meant. Jon checked his watch he was now late for the meeting with the guys.
“Oh god Jon I am sorry! here I am rattling on and you had a meeting” Jesse said going to grab her purse.

“Hey, hey, it’s ok” he said to her, he hadn’t regretted this at all. Jesse quickly got up and paid the bill for the both of them as agreed. And Jon followed her out. He was walking from here. Jesse zipped up her red jacket and smiled at him.

“Thank you Jon, again, for everything, you have been very sweet” she said as she gave him a peck on the cheek.
Jon felt his face flush just from the slightest touch as she kissed him, her scent of jasmine and wildflower also alleviating his senses.

“Your most welcome Jesse Adams” he pulled out a card from his wallet and handed it to her.

“If you need anything, just someone to talk to, hang with, or a knight in shining armour” he grinned, catching her blush.

“You just call me ok?” he asked raising his eyebrow at her. Jesse knew he was serious, but she had troubled him enough.

“Thank you Jon, now go, you’ll be late” she said as she flicked her hands away at him.

Chapter Four

Jesse smiled at Jon not really sure what to do next, she didn’t feel as uncomfortable as she probably should with a strange man in her house.
She picked up her mug and took a sip again.

“Jon Bon Jovi?” she asked raising an eyebrow, she knew now who he was. She didn’t move in the music circles all that often with her job but she knew of the band and who they were.

“Yeah, now you know” he chuckled; he was pleased she seemed eerily calm, he occasionally enjoyed woman freaking out over him but today he was glad she hadn’t.

“So Rockstar by day, knight in shining armour by night?” she quipped giving him a cheeky smile. Her brown eyes had come to life. Jon’s breath caught in his throat. She was beautiful, even in her night after glory, she was beautiful.

“I concede. But seriously about the internet, if you are looking for a date, I know some guys” he chuckled. Anyone of the band that was single would have asked her out.

“I appreciate the thought Jon, it was just a dumb idea, it was the first time I did it, and it will probably be the last judging on last night’s experience, but I am fine, really” she said staring off into space.

Jon’s attention was on her bookshelf that was lined with various books and ornaments, and then a photo of a man, who wouldn’t be anymore than thirty five in a military suit was framed in a silver frame proudly in the centre of it all. Jon looked back at Jesse and she’d caught him looking at the frame.

“It’s my husband” she answered his question before he even had asked. The sadness in her eyes told him immediately they were no longer together, and then he saw it; on the top of the bookshelf neatly folded into a small square was an American Flag.

“Oh Jesse, I am so sorry” he said sympathetically. Jon could tell the hurt was still very fresh in her heart.

“Its ok” she said smiling a small smile to try and hide the obvious tears welling up in her eyes, she stood up quickly almost to change the subject, and Jon sensed she didn’t want to talk about it anymore so he didn’t press her. His cell phone buzzed again in his pocket, he checked it seeing it was a reminder he had a meeting with the guys around the recording arrangements in an hour.

“I should call a cab” he said standing up placing the mug back down on the table.

“I can drop you wherever I can go. It’s the least I can do Jon, for what you did for me last night” she said

“I don’t want to put you out” he quickly said, but also secretly pleased he may have a few more moments with her.

“Please... I will just get changed, I will be five minutes, plus I need to pick something up in town anyway, and now is a good time as any” she said and she darted up the stairs to where he assumed the bedroom was. He again looked around the walls at the clothing that was in the pictures.

Jesse flew up the stairs and quickly discarded her dress and threw on some jeans and a baby black v neck tee and grabbed her red jacket, pulling her hair into a ponytail and taking one look at her face she just about died. She scooted into the bathroom and quickly washed her face and moisturized, before kicking on some sandals and jogging down the stairs again not before without a squirt of perfume.
Jon smiled at her as she breezed back into the living area.

“You have quite a talent Ms Adams” he said holding up one of the embroided man’s shirt that was on the table.

“This is awesome” he said studied the intricate stitching on the black fabric.

“Thanks Jon” she said as she picked up her keys. “Ready?” she asked. Jon nodded and watched her lead the way out of the apartment, noticing her red leather jacket which had an embedded black set of angels wings sewn on the back.

“Love the jacket, I take it its one of yours?” he asked as they walked outside the apartment. She laughed.

“No, I don’t tend to wear my own clothes” she said a she led the way to the underground parking facility in the complex.

“Really?” he asked surprised as she led the way across the concrete to the black hatch that was parked in the corner.

“Don’t sound so surprised, put it this way do you listen to your own music in your spare time?” she asked as she unlocked the passenger seat for him to jump in. Jon laughed.

“Well when you put it that way, I guess it’s the same, and no, I don’t listen to my own music, as much as the guys tease me that I do, I don’t” he said as he climbed in and fastened the seat belt.
Jesse laughed as she climbed in her side and did the same.

“So where to?” she asked starting the ignition.

“Are you hungry? I know I could really get some breakfast before my meetings today”
he said hoping he wasn’t overstepping the mark.
She met his eyes.

“I’d like that, on one condition” she said as she reversed out of the parking spot and looked back again at him.

“I pay, to say thanks for saving me last night” she said
Jon nodded grinning.

“You’re on, there is a nice diner just near where I live, and then I can walk to my place from there” he said as he gave her the street address of where the diner was. Making small talk about the way the city looked in the fall they arrived at the diner, it was thankfully quiet so they went to a booth in the corner, Jesse didn’t even give two thoughts to who she was here with so it took her a moment to wonder why people were staring at them. Jon flashed a warm smile to the onlookers as they sat down.

“You know they are just staring at the beautiful woman I am with” he said as a matter of fact picking up the menu. Jesse’s cheeks flushed a little pink.

“You’re sweet, its ok though, does it bother you?” she asked
Jon flipped the menu pages.


“Nah, I am kinda used to it all by now, I just worry sometimes it effects the people I am with more” he sincerely said.
Jesse studied the man closely, no wedding ring. She wondered what his story was, apart from the fact he was the lead singer of a reasonably famous rock band. The waitress soon knocked her out of her thought.

“What would you like?” she asked Jesse.

“Uh, just the pancakes thanks, and a latte thanks” she said handing the menu back.

“And you” she said without a blink of an eye.

“Uh, I will just have the French toast and bacon, oh and a long black” he said. She took the menus and walked away without another word.

“Well A+ for politeness” Jon sarcastically whispered. Jesse giggled and Jon matched it. She couldn’t help how cute he was, the laugh lines at the corner of his mouth and eyes showing as they scrunched up.
As breakfast came they both dug in, Jesse not realizing how hungry she was.

“So, are you touring at the moment?” she asked him biting her pancakes and chewing
thoughtfully.

“No, we just have decided to go back into the studio, we’ve been on a little break for awhile now” he said

“That’s great, are you looking forward to it?” she asked sensing he was.

“Absolutely, it’s been too long, and plus after all that’s happened we’re more than
ready” he said sipping his coffee. Jesse didn’t probe but she sensed he was referring to himself in that comment. Jon took a breath not knowing if he wanted to do this but he thought if he had any chance of seeing her again, he had to let her know.

“I have just come out of a marriage split, seventeen years, and four children later” he grimaced.

“Oh Jon, I am sorry. What happened?” she asked sensing he wanted to tell her more.

“Things just got screwed up, she’s a great lady, hell I still love her I guess, but the amount of time I neglected the marriage, well we both did, it became more of a convenience for the kids than anything, and it was just time to admit that to ourselves” he continued.

“That must have been hard for everyone, how did the kids take it?” she asked him. Her voice laced with genuine concern.

“They have been great, well the oldest ones have been, the youngest ones don’t fully understand but I still see them as much as possible. My oldest son’s name is your namesake” he grinned.

“Really? Well, he has a great name” she beamed as she finished the first pancake.
Jon looked at her, pausing whether he should bring this up again or not.

“Jesse, what happened to, him?” he asked. She looked at the plate for a long moment and took a deep breath.

Chapter Three

Chapter Three

Jesse had no idea where she was when she woke up as the sun was hitting her living room windows, her head felt heavy and her eyelids even heavier. Before she opened her eyes she stretched out on the couch and extended her toes, her eyes let themselves open slowly and gradually she adjusted her vision, her head was pounding and her eyes adjusted to the so called haze she was experiencing, rubbing her eyes she sat up and realised she was on her couch, the memory of the last night came rushing back, she had met Sam at the bar, but that’s all she could remember, she turned around to pull herself up off the couch and froze when she realized she wasn’t alone. A man was in her chair, asleep, and she had no idea where he had come from and what he was doing here. Sucking in her breath scared it would wake him if she breathed too loud, she took him in, his head rested on the side of the couch, eyes closed, his strong jaw line framed by sandy brown hair, her eyes ran down his long neck, and deep blue shirt that was slightly opened at the top, showing off his chest hair which was ample, finished with jeans and some worn looking cowboy boots. He looked familiar but she couldn’t place him, she just wanted him out of her house as she had no idea how he got in here. In an instant all plans and ideas on how to get him out were gone as a light buzzing sound was protruding the silence of the room, he moved, and reached for his cell phone, immediately realizing she was awake. Looking down at his cell phone and flipping it open.

“Look bud, now is not a good time, I will call you back” he said as he shut the phone again. She couldn’t help notice his piercing blue eyes.

“Uh, hi, please don’t be afraid, I am not here to hurt you, and nothing happened last night, I just wanted to make sure you were ok, as you were very sick” he said gesturing to the bowl on the floor. Jesse’s eyes adverted to the bowl and back to him; she pulled the blanket back over her as if it was some protective shield.

“Who are you? And what are you doing here?” the crack in her voice gave away she was a little more than scared.

Jon quickly adjusted to the bright light that was shining in and got up and kneeled before her on the floor placing a hand on her knee.

“Honey, you were drugged last night at the bar, you’re blind date turned out to be an asshole, and I just wanted to make sure that you got home ok, as you were gone…” he said almost whispering not wanting to scare her anymore than she was.
The genuine glow in his blue eyes calmed her immediately; she remembered her date, Sam.

“Oh God” she moaned putting her face in her hands more from embarrassment than anything.

“Hey its ok, my buddy and I were there, I saw him do it, so we told him to leave and he did, after a little persuasion” Jon winked touching it with a little smile.

“Well thank you – ah-“she went to say his name and realized she didn’t know it.

“Jon, you can call me Jon, Jesse” he said as he got up and sat back in the chair giving her some space, flashing her a warm smile as he did.

“Jon, thank you. You probably saved me from something really really stupid, and possibly heart scarring” she said sincerely.

“It’s ok, really but whoever set you up with him needs a good slapping” he said with a chuckle.

“That would be me, not my finest choice, but I met him on an internet dating site” she blushed. Jon raised an eyebrow.

“Jesse, this is none of my business but why on earth are you on there, you know there can be some real losers out there, its dangerous, and besides, I find it hard to believe a beautiful woman like you cant get a date” he said, she felt her cheeks flush.

“Jon, you have no idea, I just haven’t…” she trailed off he didn’t need to know the whole sad story of her life. Quickly she changed the subject.

“How did you get me home, I mean my address? Did I tell you?” she asked confused as she walked towards the kitchen which flowed on from the living area and switching on the coffee percolator.

“Uh, well that’s an interesting story, how about you make us a coffee and I will tell you over it, if you want” Jon added hoping not to press her. She smiled.

“Sure it’s the least I can do” she said as she pulled two mugs out from the cupboard, he couldn’t help but stare at her, her brown wavy hair was thick with morning tousle, and she was still in her dress from last night hat fitted her very well, for first thing in the morning after being drugged she looked amazing. It clung to her in all the right places.
He was so caught up he didn’t hear her.

“Milk, Milk Jon?” she asked again grabbing his attention.

“Ah no, thanks darling just as it comes is fine” he said returning to earth, she bought back the two mugs of coffee.

“So wanna tell me how you got here?” she asked handing the mug to him and sitting opposite him again.

Jon chuckled, and commenced to tell her the entire story of the night. By the end of it, her face was burning.

“Oh god, seriously I am so sorry Jon, I should have been more careful, and I am surprised Kia gave you the address” she said as she knew Kia was cautious of any man Jesse was interested in at first.

“Well I convinced her I was only looking out for you” he added.

Jesse nodded “You do have a soothing aura about you, I must admit” she said hoping she hadn’t said too much.

“Wow a soothing aura” Jon laughed as he took a sip from the mug. He put it back on the counter.

“Seriously Jesse, you have to be careful out there, it’s a bad ass world, I am not now, but I have been there and used woman before, I know what we are like” Jon said to her, before looking around the room and continuing. His sentiment touched her, in a way no one had been concerned for her before and he didn’t even know her.

“So you’re into fashion?” he asked

“Yes, I am a fashion designer, I have my own collections, Jesse Adams” she replied. Now that she said it he had recalled Stephanie talking about the latest jacket or something by someone Adams.
He nodded impressed.

“I work mainly here in Jersey but being close to NY where it all happens, I should move there really the amount of time I go there, but I guess I just haven’t been able to since” she stopped again, Jon met her eyes and pleaded with her to continue but he saw her retract.

“Anyway its home, I can’t leave it just yet” she finished.

“I know that feeling” he said in a way Jesse felt was heartfelt.

“So Jon what about you, what do you do?” she asked. He chuckled and smiled. He hadn’t been asked that question in a long time and truth be told it was refreshing.

“I’m a musician, in a rock band, you may have heard of them” he said a smile playing on his lips.
She waited for him to continue, there was something that was familiar.
They were interrupted by the doorbell.

“Who the hell is that?” Jesse asked heading to the door after discarding her mug on the kitchen bench.

“It better not be that asshole” Jon said suddenly pleased he had stayed.

“He doesn’t know where I live; I am not that stupid she said winking as she opened the door. Jon was about to say he never suggested she was but they were interrupted by a body flinging themselves at Jesse.

“Oh my God! I am so glad you are ok!” Kia. It had to be. A 5”6 blond in yoga pants and a sports crop her hair tied back loosely in a ponytail.

“I am fine, I heard that my knight called you last night” she chuckled as she led Kia in.

“Yeah, I have no idea who he was – but he seemed pretty ok, shifty at first but then-

“Kia stopped dead in her tracks as she realized the subject of her conversation was still here, and more importantly who it was. When Kia received a call from a native Jersey man called Jon, it never occurred to her who was taking her friend home.

“Jon Bon Jovi?” she asked surprised, Jesse looked at Kia confused and then followed her gaze to him, she knew who he was now. Admittedly not a fan as such but she knew of him.

“Yes, you must be Kia, pleased to meet you darlin, see I told you I would look after her” he said proudly.

“That you did, thank you Jon” she smiled warmly at him. Jon was pleased she didn’t flip out like most women seemed to do in front of him.

“Did you want coffee Kia?” Jesse asked

“No, I am off to the gym, I just wanted to make sure you were ok, and it looks like you were, more than ok” she smiled at Jon. She hugged her friend and whispered “Call me” before saying goodbye and thank you to Jon and leaving them both.