Chapter Thirty

Finally as they were dressed after their short lived rendezvous in the bath they went downstairs. Jon appreciatively glancing at the black knee high chiffon dress she was wearing complemented with some killer black pumps. He held the elevator door open for her to step in.

“Did I tell you, you look amazing tonight?” he asked kissing the side of her face.

She smiled “You did now, and you don’t look so bad either” she teased admiring his black pinstripe pants and crisp wide collared shirt. He smiled graciously as they hit the lobby of the hotel.

“This way” he said as he hooked his arm in his. Jesse couldn’t help but see the slight limp he was still fashioning and laughed.

“Is it still sore?” she asked with a small pout on her face. Jon looked into her eyes and smirked.

“Yes it is”

“Well I told you that there wasn’t enough room” she said teasingly as she slipped her hand down to his ass.

“There is ALWAYS enough room, and I proved that didn’t I? If you recall?” he whispered into her ear nibbling on the lobe.

“You big man you” she conceded graciously.

Jon puffed out his chest “ME Big man, you small woman, me take care of you” he said in his best caveman voice.

Jesse dissolved into laughter as they walked into the restaurant. Jon looked up and saw his band mates at a large table waiting for him.

“Well hello there, glad you could acquaint us with your company tonight” David said standing up and kissing Jesse on the cheek.

“Come and sit next to me you pretty thing, I need to know all your secrets” David said wiggling his eyebrows. Jesse laughed as she watched his blue eyes dance mischievously and was led over to the table away from Jon.

Richie placed his hand on her shoulder “Nice to see you again Jesse” he winked.

“Hey guys, how was the rest of the afternoon?” she asked “Was he bearable?” she joked winking at Jon.

Tico soon came back to the table with a beer “Well Jesse, Bella we took a vote and you now how to accompany Jon on every recording mission we ever embark on” Tico said winking as he sat down.

Jesse snorted softly “Well, I have my demands, but I could be convinced” she grinned looking back up at the blue eyes that were watching on in interest.

Jon shook his head “What do you want to drink babe? I need a drink” he chuckled watching his band mates fuss over her. But he smiled at how easily she settled into that groove.

She looked up “Just a savvy will be fine” she replied.

Jon nodded and limped gently to the bar. Richie watched on and burst out laughing, and soon David and Tico’s gaze were on Jon. Richie turned and faced Jesse.

“Why is he limping?” Richie asked raising his eyebrow and cocking a smirk “As he wasn’t this afternoon” he laughed.

Jesse felt the heat rise into her cheeks. Richie shook his head waiting for Jon to get back to the table.

“Ok, I am not sure I want to know” David jested.

“Oh I think it might be something to do with the ‘Fire Drill’” Richie said mimicking the inverted commas.

Jesse laughed “No it wasn’t actually” she stopped herself as she felt herself taking his bait.

“Oh do tell pretty lady, this is just too priceless” Richie said as he watched Jon pay for the drinks and attempt to come back to the table slowly.

Jesse shook her head knowing Jon was going to kill her for this but she had to admit that she was dying to see what would happen.

“He fell in the bath when he tried to get in” she simply said. Richie’s eyes widened and then narrowed again.

“And were you in the bath at the time?” Richie asked. Jesse nodded watching the three men hanging onto every word she was saying.

David snorted “Oh good god, that is priceless” he said as he waited for Jon to return.

“I told him there wasn’t enough room but he had to try anyway” she said coyly.

“That’s Kidd, never tell her cant do something” Richie chuckled softly.

They all watched as Jon came back to the table and placed the wine in front of Jesse and his own wine he sat down opposite her with. He noticed the mischievous gleam in her eyes and raised an eyebrow in question; he didn’t get the time to reply as Richie spoke up.

Clearing his throat he started to talk. “So Kidd, hows the ankle? Jess here tells us you were so brave to catch the old lady at the hotel as she fainted even though it threw you off balance” he threw a wink at Jesse, she stifled a giggle as she tried to hide in her wine.

Jon looked confused but realized she’d probably covered for him seeing him walk funny.

“Ah yeah, well you got to do what you got to do right?” Jon asked taking a long sip of his wine.

David spoke up “I mean Jon, that was very noble, and it had to be quite stressful, I hope that you were able to unwind and relax after it” David said seriously.

Jon just shrugged “Wasn’t that stressful bro” he said as shrugged it off.

“I don’t know Kidd, if it were me I would of gone back to my suite and had a long hot bubble bath” Richie said nonchalantly.

Jon’s eyes grew wide and stared in horror at Jesse who was busy covering her mouth her with glass of wine. But he could bet his bottom dollar there was a cheeky grin hiding behind it. His cheeks flushed a little red.

Richie burst out laughing his contagious smile breaking out on his face along with David and Tico’s laughs echoed the room.

“Just because you’re all jealous” he chuckled. “And remind me never to leave you alone with these three guys ever again” Jon said shaking his head.

“They pressed me” she said innocently. “I had no choice” her wide eyes trying to win him over.

Jon chuckled “Yes I am sure they did” he said shaking his head. He watched her as she won over their hearts and knew in an instant this was the start of a new phase for her.

"I need food" Jon said picking up the menu.

"Caveman's gotta eat huh?" Jesse winked as she opened her own menu smiling.

Chapter Twenty Nine

As Jon walked back into the studio the contented grin from his face didn’t elude his band mates one bit.

Richie just eyes Jon and snorted “How was the fire?” he asked Jon with a gleam in his eye, noticing now a very relaxed Jon had emerged.

Jon shook his head, “It was a false alarm, but I am back now, that’s all that matters” he said not biting to Richie’s quip.

David eyed him suspiciously “Well, so what happened?” he asked as he watched Jon sit down on the stool and sling the acoustic across his lap.

Jon kept tuning the guitar “She loves me” he simply said.

“Well thank fuck for that” Richie laughed as he watched Jon carry on with a small smile on his face.

Tico raised an eyebrow at Richie and Richie just nodded, Oh yes their boy was in love, he was so smitten. They all soon carried on into the afternoon finding that their session has twice as productive as the morning one had been.

~~

Jesse had spent the afternoon in town walking the streets, looking through the boutiques and shops that it had to offer, making a couple of purchases on pieces she found that she thought were unusual or interesting, she returned to the hotel finding that it was still an hour away from when Jon had text her and said she would be back from the studio.

She decided to unwind and draw herself a bath using the selected oils and fragrances that the hotel complimentary stash had to offer.

Flicking the internal sound system on to the local Jazz station she stepped into the hot soapy bubbles she relaxed and closed her eyes dreaming of the next time she would lay her eyes on her deliciously handsome man. Her hands delicately ran down her stomach and she quivered remembering his touch on them, slowly she drifted away into a sedated mindless dream accompained by the soft overtones of the sultry saxophone.

Jon had told the guys he’d meet them in an hour down at the hotel restaurant with Jesse much to the snickering and jest of his band mates that it would take him an hour to get ready. He strode into the suite immediately his ears were graced with soft tones of a saxophone crroning as he looked around for her.

“Jess?” he asked seeing a pile of shopping bags on the bed but her no where to be seen, his nostrils took in the distinct smell of lavender as he drew him to the bathroom that was now omitting a small cloud of steam. He peeked in and sure enough there she lay blanketed in a sea of bubbles, her head resting on the head of the tub, on a towel, eyes closed and looking every bit spellbound to the tub.

Jon stood and took in the sight for a few minutes; her pink skin that was visible glistened with the suds. He crept over to the edge of the tub and sat on the edge as he stroked her damp forehead. Her brown glazed eyes slowly opened and a small smile crept on her lips.

“Hey you” he said with a grin.

“God I must of fell asleep” she said sedately as she stretched sliding down the tub.

Jon chuckled “I am glad you did, this is about you relaxing too you know babe” he said stroking her cheek. Unable to ignore her nakedness much longer he let a small growl out as his eyes wondered over her glistening form.

“Is there a problem?” she asked giggling relishing having a man appreciate her again.

Jon shook his head “No there is no problem here” he said as he stood up and pulled his top off and then dispersed of his jeans.

Jesse snorted “There’s not enough room, and do you really want to smell like Lavender” she laughed as she watched him prepare to descend into the bath admiring his now naked body.

His blue eyes blazing with lust “There’s enough room and if I end up smelling like you then it will be worth it” he grinned as he stepped into the bath, Jesse tried to move her body to give him room, but what ended up happening is she slid and knocked Jon’s foot so he lost his balance, in one big splash he hit her body hard sending water flying.

“Fuck!” he exclaimed as he was twisted over her pressing his weight down on her, he felt his ankle twist. Jesse burst out laughing as a tidal wave of bubbles and water went flying onto the ceramic tiles below.

“I told you” she chuckled as she tried to move.

“Oww my ankle” he whimpered softly like a five year old boy.

“Ohhh baby” she cooed as she wiped his forehead and kissed him gently. He twisted slowly and in one swift movement he had managed to spoon around behind her wrapping his legs around her from behind.

He lifted his ankle in view of her face “It hurts baby” he pouted.

She took it in her hands and rubbed it softly and placed a warm kiss on it.

“That better?” she asked, he groaned appreciatively as she did so.

“Much” he murmured his sweet kiss on her neck. She closed her eyes and noticed she felt a cool breeze and soon realized what the problem was.

“Jon, there’s hardly any water in here” she laughed as she reached with her foot and pulled down the hot water lever so it started filling the tub again.

Jon looked over the side. “I don’t think housekeeping is going to be too pleased with me” he said laughing looking at the floor filled with water and suds alike.

“Well you’ll just have to leave them a big tip, wasn’t my fault” she said innocently.

Jon whispered in her ear “It was you know, you being too damn sexy in those bubbles” he said as he snaked his hands around to her breasts and cupped them gently. Jesse moaned and leaned back into him as his fingers worked their magic on her rosy buds.

“God Jon…” she breathed as she remembered to flick the hot water off again with his foot before they reinvented Noah's flood.

“Pay back is a bitch you know baby” he whispered huskily in her ear letting one hand creep down her silky slick stomach and delve into the warm water below to find her wanting apex in need of his touch, slipping his thumb lightly into clit he began a painstakingly slowly massage of the nub.
Jesse arched her body upwards and slid her arm behind her head to grip onto his neck.

“Jon, please baby…” she whimpered feeling her desire start to grow and threaten to burst.

“That’s it baby, just settle in for the ride” he breathed, his own hardness was now growing strong against her thigh.

His thumb teased and taunted her bringing her slowly but surely to the edge of her passion.

“Jon, god, please….. I beg” she stuttered in a gasp as the crescendo of a sinful saxophone melody grew in the air.

“That’s it baby let is all go for me, cum for me” he whispered chewing lightly on her ear.

“Goddd yesssss!” she cried as it hit her sending shockwaves of sweet pleasure to her fingers and toes as she was braced by him, opening her eyes she came back to life and rolled around and lay on top of him kissing him hard.

“You’re going to kill me one day Bongiovi” she laughed between her light kisses on his precious lips.

“That’s the plan, kill you off any other man ever again Jess, as this is it, you’re staying with me” he said with a smirk. She laughed.

“Well I guess, it’s time to return to the favour” she whispered as her hands glided down his damp fur over the dip in his belly to the nest of hair that guarded his manhood, reaching and taking his length slowly in her hand she stroked a long the base letting her nail just shimmy across it.

He closed his eyes and letting his lips part a guttural moan escaped them. God he was beautiful, she thought as she watched him lose himself into ecstasy.

Just as she was about to continue a loud knock at the door interrupted the interlude they had set in motion.

“What the fuck, just ignore it, keep going” he panted. She chuckled lightly her brown eyes dancing with allurement. But the door rapping grew louder.

“Kidd you in there?!! Come on. you can fuck later, we want to spend some time with the lil lady” Richie’s hoarse voice drifted through the suite.

Jon groaned “Fuck me” he said as he got out of the tub helping Jesse into a towel. She couldn’t help but laugh and she watched him limp to the bathroom door.

“This is NOT funny hussy” he said lightly spanking her as he slung his own towel over his hips and strode towards the suite door flinging it open.

“I said an hour didn’t I?” Jon asked looking every bit flustered as Richie had expected him too.

Richie laughed “I know but David dared me to, and you know me Kidd never back out of a dare” he winked.

“Fuck you Sambora” he chuckled “We’ll be there in ten” he said slamming the door.

“I don’t know why I don’t fire the sons of bitches” Jon muttered as he pulled on some dress pants.

Jon looked over at Jesse who was slipping on a red lacy bra. “And don’t think this is over missy, you know owe me TWICE” he said with a devious smirk.

Chapter Twenty Eight

Jon held her for a few moments just enjoying the simplicity of their togetherness after their love making.

“I’m so glad you came baby” he whispered. She just mumbled into his chest and furry confines.

“I hate to say it though but I need to get back to the studio, god knows what Sambora would do if I give him free reign” he chuckled placing a kiss on her head.

“You do that, I am going to look around town this afternoon” she said as she sat up watching him leave the bed and pulling back his jeans on, admiring the firm contours of his ass before the denim slipped over them.

He turned around to face her after he pulled the Soul jersey back over his head and grinned down at her.

“Damn, I so don’t want to leave you here baby like that” he said as admired the sheet that was loosely covering her curves, just falling lightly around her breast to expose the top of it, smiling into her flush face.

“Well you have to honey, you know you can’t leave it, you couldn’t if you tried” she chuckled.

Jon swatted her ass lightly “Hey! You saying I like control?” he asked raising an eyebrow.

She smiled and nodded “You know you do” she teased. Jon let his eyes roam down her body taking in all that she had to offer him. His passion was building again, he knew if he didn’t leave the room now.

Jesse grinned at him as she felt his blue eyes travel across her body; she smirked as she let the sheet fall a little lower exposing the tip of her breast trying to look as nonchalant as possible.

“Oh baby you just did not do that” Jon paused as he went to slip his boots back on but paused. He looked at his watch and then back at her. He knew that he had to be in the studio, they had a tight schedule but the tight feeling in his jeans was beginning to win the internal fight he had going on.

Jesse stretched back and let the sheet fall further past her breasts resting on her abdomen. “Gosh I am tired” she yawned sleepily with a grin.

Jon growled as he took in her creamy soft skin that minutes ago he was caressing with his lips.
“I need to go – I will see you tonight” he said quickly picking up his cell phone and wallet and headed towards the door and slammed it shut after him. Jesse chuckled watching him leave; she wouldn’t lie to know she was pleased that she was secretly tormenting him inside.

Jon made it outside to the lift of the hotel and leant back against the wall as he pushed the button. He shook his head ands scoffed lightly.
“You are unbelievable Bongiovi” as the calling of sweet ivory skin had him walking back to the suite. He opened the door with his key card and slammed the door; she looked up from the bed her eyes welcoming him in.

“Back so soon?” she asked teasingly as she sat up, Jon kicked off his shoes and ripped off his jeans letting them fall to the ground before climbing onto the bed as he crawled up in-between her legs. Leaning over her his blue eyes filled with passion and heat he kissed her hard on the lips. She wrapped her arms around his neck and let him envelope her in his blatant desire as her legs instinctively widened for him, he was just about to position himself when a piercing loud noise filled the room.

“What the fuck is that?” Jon asked looking around, Jesse laughed.

“I do believe it’s the fire alarm baby” she chuckled as she went to move but Jon held her firmly and held her gaze.

“It will be a false alarm” he said whining as he’d come so close. Jesse shook his head.

“Uh uh, not taking that risk” she said as he slowly took her bottom lip in his mouth and sucked lightly.

A loud knock heralded the door “Sir Time to evacuate the hotel please” a voice came.

“Fuckkk” Jon whined as he quickly got up and threw his jeans back on, Jesse quickly dressed and soon they were been ushered down the hotel’s stairs outside with the rest of the guests.

Jesse took his hand and chuckled “Patience is a virtue didn’t you know that Mr Bongiovi” she smirked. Jon shook his head and smiled taking in her brown eyes which he’d noticed were sparkling brighter than usual.

“Patience and seeing you naked do not go together dear” he whispered as they stood out in the hotel’s courtyard while the hotel was checked over. She laughed as she felt his arm snake around her waist.

Jon flipped open his cell phone and texted Richie about the fire drill and that he’d be a few more minutes back than expected. Promptly his cell phone beeped with a return reply that simply read.

“Fire drill my ass”

Jon chuckled as he shut it and slipped it into his back pocket.
Jesse stood and watched the hotel personnel clear the hotel and go about their procedures, she couldn’t help notice that a lot of eyes were on her and for a minute she had to wonder if she hadn’t put her clothes on right or something but soon realized it wasn’t what she was wearing it was who she was with.

Jon didn’t seem phased by it, but she couldn’t help notice the gaggle of young girls talking and eyeing her up and down probably evaluating her every feature. She shifted uncomfortably. She knew Jon was popular and had no issue with his fame, but this was slightly unsettling.
As a couple of the girls approached them she noticed Jon’s face fill with a megawatt smile she knew that was reserved for the stage.

“Hi ladies” he said politely.

“Hi Jon, do you mind if we get a picture and autograph?” they asked giggling. Jon smiled graciously.

“Sure thing, Jess will you excuse me a little minute babe" he whispered as he broke away from his embrace.
Jesse smiled and nodded watching the scene in front of her. She watched how he intently listened and laughed at the girl’s comments to him and how he spoke to each one of them like he was really interested and that they meant something, she smiled. This was one of the reasons she loved Jon, he always had time for people and always made sure that they got their time with him and it showed in the way he conducted himself.

“Is that your new girlfriend Jon?” one of them asked as they finished the picture taking session, Jon smiled and looked at Jesse, they never had discussed this, and how much she wanted to be known as his girlfriend as unfortunately in the business that he was in, meant she would get a lot of attention and gossip after her. Jesse just smiled lightly.

He smiled at the woman that had asked “She’s just a close friend” he simply said hoping that she hadn’t overstepped the boundary. He hated his personal life in the media but since his divorce there had already been speculation over whether he was with someone else, and he hadn’t told his children that he was seeing someone else yet officially so he owed it to them first to tell them.

They seemed happy with his answer as they left and the hotel was cleared of all fire threat, as Jesse and Jon walked back into the lift up to their suite. He needed to talk to her about this and fast.

Jesse had heard what he said, she had to the reasons for why he said it, and she wasn’t mad, if anything she knew he was just trying to protect her. When they were alone he turned to her.

“Jess, I had to do that” but she cut him off.

“I know baby, its ok, really Jon” she said softly. He took her hands.

“I just wanted to make sure you are ok with all of this before I go shouting from the rooftops that I love you, and also I want to tell the kids first before they read it or hear it elsewhere” he explained the sincerity ringing true in his eyes.

Jesse smiled and touched his cheek “And I am totally fine with that, and totally fine with you telling anyone, but you make sure your family is ok with it first ok?” she asked knowing that his kids were the most important thing in the world.

He relaxed and pulled her in for a strong embrace breathing in her scent.
“I know you would understand I am so lucky to have you” he said as he placed a kiss on her forehead.

They both walked back into the suite, Jon looked at his watch and cringed.

“I do really have to go as much as I don’t want to” he said, she looked at him and smiled at his woebegone look in his eyes.

“You do baby, you’re working, and I’ll be here later” she winked.

“Damn right you will be. This is not over, not by a long shot” he whispered as he ran his hands down her side and drew her into a long lingering kiss. She slipped her hands down and lightly grabbed his ass in response elicting a frustrated moan from his lips, before he finally pulled away unwillingly.

“Have fun baby – see you later” he winked as he headed out the door while he still could, thoughts of her touch and her scent lingering with him as he went.

Chapter Twenty Seven

Jon stood up and walked towards her. He could see she was trembling, his heart soared that she was here, she was actually here. He walked towards her and took her hands in his.

“Hi Baby” he said with a smile.

“Hey yourself” she said as she let him envelope her into an embrace as his lips found hers for a soft gentle kiss.

She pulled away “Sorry I didn’t call” she said as she placed her hand on his chest just resting on the v neckline where his fur was creeping out.

“Don’t sweat it, you’re here now and that’s all that matters” he said running his hands down her side to rest on her hips. He turned around to face the guys.

“Well no need for introduce you, you’ve met the brothers I assume” he chuckled.

“We have” she confirmed watching as the three men watched them curiously.

“Get a room” Richie joked as he watched Jon lean and nipped her ear. Damn he was smitten alright.

“We may just, come on Jess I will take you to the hotel drop your bags off, and you guys can do without me for awhile” Jon said.

“Drop off bags my ass” Tico commented but loud enough for everyone to hear. David just smirked in agreement. She blushed slightly but knew that they were just teasing.

Jon and Jesse left the guys; she would see them at dinner that night. Jon grabbed a taxi and had them on their way to the hotel; he just held her hand as they made the short trip to the hotel. Once they reached his suite Jesse looked at him and cocked a grin.

“I thought while recording you weren’t allowed to have woman in your suite” she mimicked Richie’s comment from awhile back. Jon laughed, putting her bags down next to the dresser and came back and drew his arms around her.

“I make the rules around here baby” he said as he breathed in her scent as he kissed her neck, slowly running his tongue in little circles on her flesh. She shivered as his warm touch made her skin goose. She pulled away before he got too carried away.

“Jon, I need to say something” she said as she pushed his head away to meet her gaze. Soft blue eyes met hers melting her heart.

“You don’t have to Jess” he said softly as he swept her hair away from her face, god she was beautiful.

Jesse took his hand and held it in her own “Yes I do Jon, I just wanted to tell you that” she paused.

Jon watched her, he knew this was hard but he watched as she looked at him with confident eyes.

“I am ready for this Jon; I want this more than anything. I want you, if you’ll have me” she breathed. Jon smiled relief settling into his mind.

“I want nothing more Jesse than that, I really do” he said as he met her in a kiss, she reached up and ran her hands through his silky short hair pulling him closer feeling his tongue slip into her mouth she omitted a small moan. His hands slid up her top onto her bare back, the touch of her skin felt like fire under his fingertips.

Her hands soon left his hair and down his back outlining the contours of his muscles. He started walking her back slowly to the bed, her slight scent of berries mixed in with woman overwhelming him and setting his desire alight.

Pushing her down on the bed he slowly removed her shoes and discarded them on the floor. Opening her legs he shimmied up the bed to lie over her devouring her mouth, slipping his tongue into hers and together than danced, a dance of unrequited love that had finally been set free.

His jeans were starting to tighten in places that only she made tighten as he continued to kiss down her neck and pulled her top up exposing her satin skin as his hands began to roam across her belly and up her abdomen settling on her rounded breasts cupping them lightly through the silky material. She sucked in her breath as his thumbs began to massage her precious pink tips as they hardened instantly at his touch.

“Oh god Jon, I need you, I need you so bad” she breathed as the sensations were starting to drive her to the brink. She reached down and pulled his Soul jersey up over his head and rested her hands into his chest feeling the soft comfort of his fur beneath his fingers. He groaned as her touch on his bare flesh was heaven.

“I need you too baby, I have always needed you” he whispered as he nipped her ear and reached her jeans and unbuttoned them letting his fingers seep easily into her wetness.

“Fuck Jesse” he murmured as he began to drive her with his fingers, she was so warm and ready for him.

“God damn Jon” she said breathing through the sensations that were ripping through her body he gripped his neck and pulled him in for an urgent kiss. His fingers withdrew and his hands slipped her jeans and thong right off her. He unbuttoned his jeans and shimmied out of those letting them fall on the end of the bed. Sitting up with his legs wide he pulled her onto his lap as she wrapped her legs around his waist, her mouth burning against his as they kissed their passion into oblivion.

She could feel the tip of his heat at her entrance but still they teased each other taunting and mimicking their impending love making with their tongues. She reached down and took him in her hand and stroked him gently feeling him grow hard at her touch. His neck became exposed as he threw back his head in ecstasy. She ran her tongue flicking across his Adam’s apple as she continued to stroke him.

He growled as he tried to keep the feeling as long as he could, but soon he pulled away and moved her by the hips so she slid right onto him. His blue eyes burning with a cool fire, and the smirk danced on his lips as he lifted her up and down off his shaft wrapping his own legs around her. His mouth caught one of her bouncing breasts in his warm mouth as he sucked on the tip hungrily.

“Oh fuck Jon, fuck” she muttered as she braced herself gripping on to her shoulders.

He increased the rhythm of their fiery dance gripping into her back, feeling her nails dig into his shoulders he let out a small hiss knowing that he couldn’t hold on much longer.

“Jesse, baby ohh sweeeet Jesus” he cried as she felt his release shatter inside her. She kept moving on him feeling her walls milking him for everything he was worth.

Jon rested his head on her shoulder as he came down from his wave, moving his thumb into her clit to softly tease her, he sent her over the edge.

“Jonnnnnnnnnnn” she cried as she shuddered on him her hair clinging to the side of her face dusted with the sweat that was running down her cheeks.

He looked up at her all flush and her brown eyes diluted and glassy.

He rolled them both down on their side onto the bed, still entangled with each other.
“I love you baby” he murmured in her ear.

Jesse gained some focus and met his crystal blue eyes shining with love and admiration, all for her. A warm calmness swept through her heart, one that she hadn’t felt in a long time.

“I love you too Jon” she replied as she felt her heart flutter. The flutter of giving up one love for another washed into her heart.

His smile met his eyes to hear her words. He had wanted her to come to this conclusion on her own and she had, she finally had.

Chapter Twenty Six

“We’ve been over it every damn possible way and it just doesn’t fit” Jon cursed frustrated as he hurled the pencil across the studio.

Richie shook his head “It didn’t sound that bad Kidd, once David’s solo is in there it will flow much better” Richie tried to offer but he knew Jon was a perfectionist so what was the use.

“No, I am not happy” he grumbled.

“No shit” Tico piped in.

‘What?” Jon asked him blue eyes of steel staring him down.

David stood up “Look Jonny boy, you’ve been a shit for a good few days here now and I am usually not one to say this, ok, so I am. But you seriously have got something up your ass” David said.

Jon looked at his curly blond-haired keyboardist and shook his head
“Shit, I am sorry guys, I have been an asshole” Jon said as stood up.

He hadn’t meant to be, composing and writing usually came so freely to him, especially here in Nashville but there was something that niggling away at him. Jesse.
He’d confided in Richie over everything that had happened and even Richie agreed Jon had done the right thing, but now a week later and he hadn’t heard a word from her. He’d picked the phone up so many times and then put it back down; he was stubborn and determined to give her space but he had in the back of his mind that she wasn’t coming, hell she hadn’t rung to ask about hotel rooms, nothing. His hope was fading.

“I need a cigarette” Jon said as he grabbed his pack and walked out of the room.

The band waited until he’d gone. David turning to Richie.

“So still no word from the lil lady huh?” he asked. Richie shook his head. He’d told the band most of the situation as they had a right to know and it made them more likely to put up with Jon’s moods in this process.

“Nope, nothing, he’s lost hope around it, but you know Kidd, needs an answer now, I am surprised he left it to her to make the choice to be honest” Richie admitted as usually Jon was so coming forth and straight up.

“I haven’t seen him like this since him and Dot started to fight, he’s so wound up and erratic” Tico observed.

“I know, I just hope that she makes her mind up, because the boy got it bad” Richie chuckled as he watched Jon disappear out onto the grounds.

Jon walked slowly onto the pathway that led out to a reserve behind the studio. He ran his hand through his hair and shook himself off. Why hadn’t she called? Nothing not even a hint of what was happening in her mind, he was starting to go crazy and the guys were starting to pay for his mood swings. He knew it. He swore since Dot that no other woman would wind him up like this, but she sure wasn’t just no other woman, her beauty and sass overwhelmed him, they way she laughed and the way her nose scrunched with it, the way that her heart poured through her eyes, she was so in tune with herself, and so sexy, and the way she.. Well yes he smirked to himself, Jesse Adams had for sure hooked and sunk him, and there was no doubt about it. The question was; was she going to reel him in?

Jesse’s flight to Nashville was pretty uneventful, her last week had been manic to try and finish the winter collection before now so she could take this trip. She had meant to ring Jon but things just had got in the way, so she thought she would just turn up and hope he’d be pleased to see her, she’d also completed Steph’s clothes and had those to give to Jon, they had turned out better than she hoped for so at least if he’s changed his mind she could give him those at the very least. She smiled as the cab pulled into the studios where they were recording; Jon had emailed her all the details of the hotel and studio if she needed to get hold of him.

Armed at the studio she asked for Jon at the reception with her bag, the receptionist just looked at her and made a call not bothering to reply to her.
“Someone will be out in a moment” she confirmed. She just nodded, her hands starting to tremble a little.
A door opened in the far corridor and a tall figure came out, clad in jeans, boots and a black button down shirt, she recognised it as Richie.

“Well hello there little darlin, this is a surprise” he said as he flashed her one of the famous Sambora charms.

“Hi Richie, nice to meet you again” she said politely.

“Like wise, come on through, Jon is just out at the moment but he will be back any minute, and can I just say thank god you are here” he chuckled as he led her into a pin coded door.

Jesse looked confused as she followed him in, Richie stopped before going any further.
“Darlin, he’s been acting like he’s got his period for days now, he’s going nuts waiting for you” Richie said softly.

Jesse felt her cheeks flush. “I am sorry, I didn’t realize he was so wound up, time just slipped by, I did mean to call” she said.

“Oh relax darling, he’ll be a new man now, now come and meet the guys” he said as they walked into the main part of the studio her gaze fell on two other men, one with tight curly blond hair and deep blue eyes and the other man bulked with experience his face worn yet soft, short dark hair framed his face with just as dark eyes to match.

‘Well heaven must be missing an angel” David chuckled. Jesse smiled at the man's warm manner.

“Hi guys, I hear I may have been the reason for a very cranky lead singer” she sad slightly embarrassed.

“Bella, we are so pleased to see you” Tico said coming over and kissing her on the cheek.
Admiring her slender figure dressed with jeans and a woollen black coat topped off with some stiletto boots, Kidd really did know how to pick them. Her chocolate brown hair cascaded in waves around her shoulders held back from her face by the pair of sunglasses on her head.

“I’m Tico and this here is Dave” Dave soon followed suit and kissed her on the cheek as well.

“The pleasure is ours Jesse Adams” David said, she was impressed he knew her full name.

“Likewise, its good to meet you guys, how is the recording and things going?” she asked looking around the room noticing paper strewn for miles, guitars, leads anything you can imagine.

“Well it will be better now that Jonny has his muse here” David grinned. She blushed slightly. David’s view fell to outside the window as he saw Jon sauntering back.

“I just had a cunning plan, Jesse baby, you mind playing along?” David said as he led her to the sound booth which was a little out of view from the main room.

“Just wait here a minute, trust me it will be worth it” he winked as he walked back into the studio.

Jesse chuckled she had no idea what he had planned but she was curious so she sat and waited as her gaze fell on the man in question himself. Dressed in a pair of jeans and a Soul football shirt he came back in, her heart started pounding in her chest.

“You right now Jonny boy?” David asked.

“Yeah I am, thanks guys, I know you’ve put up a lot with this shit from me in the last few years” he said as he picked up his acoustic guitar.

“It’s ok boy, we know you are just worried about the lil lady” Tico said.

“You’d give anything to have her here right now wouldn’t ya?” David asked teasing him.

Jon tuned the guitar “Yeah Dave anything” Jon muttered as he tried to tune the guitar.

“A thousand bucks?” David asked winking at Tico and Richie.

“What?” Jon asked confused but then nodded “Yeah, a thousand bucks” Jon repeated, hell he’d give just about anything to be able to see her right now.

Jesse saw where this was going, and walked out of the sound booth.
“Is that all I am worth to ya?” she asked raising an eyebrow with a smirk on her face.

Jon’s eyes shot up to her as he connected with her soft brown eyes and snorted “You assholes” he chuckled.

Chapter Twenty Five

After Jon left that night Jesse was changed, she knew he was right and she had to decide what she really wanted as it was fine for Jon to be supportive and patient but it wasn’t fair on him if she really wasn’t willing to try and let go of her past and try and move on with him.

The next morning she knew Jon would be leaving for Nashville, he was spending the morning with the kids so she got up and showered have feeling much better than she had the night before. She needed to get dressed and get to work, Kia had left her a note convinced enough to leave her, but she would come and meet her lunch today at work.
As Jesse got ready to leave the house there was a knock on the door, she wondered who that was at 8am in the morning so she swung open the door to a courier holding an oversized bunch of red tulips and a package.

“Ms Adams?” he asked, she nodded and signed for it carrying it inside and she placed the flowers on the table and opened the small card that accompanied it.

Jess,

Don’t be afraid to follow your heart, I’ll be here
Whenever you’re ready

Love
J


She couldn’t hide the smile that escaped her lips, he’d sent her flowers with a very heart felt note, she quickly put them in water and then opened the package which she recognised to be a jacket and pair of jeans she was guessing belonged to Steph, just like she’d asked with another note.

As requested, looking forward to your creations, she’ll love them

J

She smiled and tucked both of the notes into her purse and headed out the door.

Lunchtime soon came around as the morning flew past with talks of designs and the winter collections. Jesse looked up as her office had been invaded by her best friend.

“I come bearing gifts” she announced as she carried an assortment of Chinese boxes.

“God you are a lifesaver Kia, you really are” Jesse said closing her portfolio she had been testing some sketches on and placing it to the side of her desk.

“I know, so how are you doing?’ she asked as she embraced her friend as she placed the boxes down.

“Yeah I am doing better thanks Hun” Jesse replied as she started inspecting the boxes.

“Soo heard from Jon?” she asked, she was dying to know, as when Jon had left last night he didn’t allude to what he had discussed with her, he just said that things were better and he was giving her a little space which Kia thought was a good idea.

“Not exactly, but a bunch of tulips showed up on my doorstep today” she smiled.

‘God lucky woman, first you get a rock star, and now he’s a god damn romantic as well, I am so jealous” she pouted with a grin only Kia could do.

Jesse laughed “Yeah he is romantic” she sighed a little starting to think about his suggestion about Nashville, Jesse hadn’t given it any though but she knew she couldn’t avoid it for too much longer.

“Kia, he asked me to come to Nashville for a few days” Jesse said picking up some noodles with her chopsticks and chewing on them.

Kia raised her eyebrows. “Well, that might not be such a bad idea you know, you haven’t been anywhere since Jason died” she said honestly. This could be just what Jesse needs to kick her into gear Kia thought.

“There’s more to it, we had a talk last night and we’re all good but he only wants me to come if I am ready to move on with him” Jesse said pausing again thinking about the impending decision she was yet to make.

Kia’s eyes widened “Wow, Jess that’s a tough one, but I can kind of see his reasoning” she said honestly hoping she wouldn’t flip out at her agreement with Jon. He had been more than patient with her in her eyes.

“Oh I know, I agree with him, I mean he should have given up on me days ago” Jesse said “But he never did” she said.

Kia took a deep breath. “Jesse yesterday when he came around, he told me he loved you, I was kind of taken back, but honestly girl, I think it’s sincere” Kia said truthfully.

Jesse smiled. “Yeah he told me that a day ago and I flipped out but, I think” she paused not wanting to talk.

Kia put down her food and looked at her friend honestly.

“Jesse it’s ok if you do too” she said, instinctively picking up her friend’s feelings.

“I don’t know if its love Kia, I mean I really do like him, a lot, he’s sweet funny, sexy, charming...”

“Good in bed” Kia finished for her.

“Kia! I never said that” Jesse laughed feeling her cheeks flush.

“Ah but you didn’t say he was bad either, and plus please girlfriend that damn glow you’re wearing has been there for days” Kia laughed.

Jesse conceded laughing “Ok he’s not bad” Jesse said biting her lip.

Kia burst out laughing “Liar, he’s damn freaking fantastic isn’t he? you hussy” she accused.

Jesse nodded. “Uh huh” was all she could manage as her cheeks flushed as she recalled the many ways that Jon had made her flush over the last few days.

“I hate you so much” Kia laughed. The two friends laughed and talked more about the wonder that was Jon.

Kia got up and looked at her watch “God I better go babe, but ring me later, when you decide what day you’re going to Nashville, I can take you to the airport.

Jesse raised her eyebrows “Who said I was going?”

Kia smirked “You’re going and you know it” she said.

Jesse nodded, she was, and she knew it. Something inside her had finally clicked, whether it was the uncertainty of never seeing him again that did it to her, she was going as she knew it was indeed time for her to move on, and move on with Jon, who she knew as much as she was afraid to admit it. She was falling in love with him.

Chapter Twenty Four

Jon drove around to Jesse’s; he’d calmed down and immediately regretted leaving without resolving things, he was thankful that Richie had made him see some sense as often his stubborn nature got away with him on the best of times.

He paused at the garden of the complex and picked a couple of daisies out of the garden and quickly made his way towards her door. He could see a light on inside.
He took a deep breath and knocked.

A few moments later the door was opened but it wasn’t Jesse who he came face to face with, it was Kia. His expression darkened when she laid her eyes on Jon.

“What do you want?” she asked him standing with her arms crossed.

Jon sighed. “Is Jesse here? I need to see her Kia” Jon said sincerely.

“She’s asleep, but do come in Jon” the tone of her voice wasn’t a welcoming one.

Kia went back to the kitchen and continued to tidy up her friends place.

“So what happened?” Kia asked as she scrubbed the coffee pot.

Jon raised his eyebrows “You mean she didn’t tell you?” he asked surprised.

“She was in too much of a state, and it came out jumbled so I made her go to sleep” Kia said not removing her eyes from the coffee pot. She knew most of the story as Jesse had sobbed her way through it when she’d come around at her friends plea, but she wanted to hear it from him.

Jon picked up a dish towel and started drying the dishes that she had washed.

“I over reacted and I need to apologize to her” he said. Kia smiled. She wanted to be hard on him she really did but from Jesse had told her, she knew he did have some right to be upset.

“Jon, I understand why you were angry, I really do” she said softly her brown eyes connecting with his.

“I thought you didn’t know” Jon asked with a small smirk. Kia grinned.

“She told me, but I wanted to see what your stance was on the whole situation, and she’d probably hate me for it, but don’t blame yourself totally for this Jon, you shouldn’t have said what you said to her though” she said as she handed him the clean wet coffee pot.

“I know, it was uncalled for, it was just a shock, that’s all” Jon admitted. He was thankful Kia hadn’t dragged him over the coals as he was convinced when he arrived she would of.

“Jon, I don’t know what you are feeling, but something tells me if you are here, you obviously do care about her a lot” Kia conceded.

“I love her Kia” Jon admitted freely. Kia raised her eyebrows.

“Love? You hardly know her Jon” Kia said surprised at his free omission.

“I know its crazy, and honestly Kia, I never use the word lightly, but I really do, there is something about her, I just am drawn to, I have been so lost for so long, and she just feels like, well home” Jon admitted finally realizing it himself.

Kia smiled.” Well I’ll be damned” she just shook her head. She’d never expected him to say that, and yet there was something resembling conviction in the way he had said it.

“I need to talk to her; can I go up and see her?” Jon asked Kia looked at him; his face was full of pain and unrest. She just nodded.

“But if you upset her again...” she said trailing off as she reached for a large butcher’s knife and picking it up. Jon’s eyes widened but then saw the cheeky grin on her face.

“I promise, I will try not to” he said holding his hands up in mock surrender cracking a grin. He picked up the daises and went to walk up the stairs. He entered her room; a dim light coming from the lamp illuminated the room. She was asleep on her side facing him, hugging a pillow. She looked beautiful, but he could see the pain that was still set in her face.

He sat down on the side of the bed and stroked her cheek softly. Her eyes soon flickered and she focused and looked up to meet his.

‘”Jon?” she croaked. His heart pained when he saw how red and swollen her eyes were.

“Hey Baby Girl” he spoke softly said stroking her hair. He just wanted to dive in there and take the pain away for her, he really did, reach into her heart and lock it away so she didn’t have to go through this, but this time it he realized it wasn’t something he could fix. She sat up rubbing her eyes and brushing her hair back.

“Jesse-“he began but she stopped him.

“Jon, please. I need to say something” she said cutting him off. He nodded silently.

“Jon, I am so sorry for what happened, and please don’t say it’s ok, because I know its not. It was inappropriate and I know I’ve hurt you” she said softly as she took his hand. “I am sorry, and whether you believe me or not, you’re not a substitute for him, honestly” she sincerely pleaded.

Her words hit him as he remembered his accusations.
“Jesse, baby I was out of line with what I said. I have no idea, or can’t even imagine what you have been through and I flipped out, and for that I am sorry. But I honestly just want you to happy baby, that’s all I want”

Jesse smiled with tears brimming in here eyes. “I don’t deserve you Jon, I really don’t” she admitted. Jon smiled warmly.

“Yes you do, you’re just confused at the moment babe that’s all, and I can be patient, as I think you’re worth the wait” he said as he handed the daisies to her.

Jesse laughed “Did you steal these?” she giggled through the evident tears.

“Just ruin my big romantic gesture why don’t ya?” he laughed.

“They are beautiful, no one has ever brought me flowers before, they were never a big thing for Jas” she stopped. She had to start learning not to compare everything to Jason.

Jon grinned “Well then, you may be in for a surprise in the future” he said as caressed her cheek. Finally seeing some of the pain slide from her face, he looked at his watch it was getting late and he had to see the kids.

“Jess I need to go and see my kids, but I just wanted to see you as I didn’t want to leave you like this” he said.

“I know, and I am glad you came, I really am” she said as she reached up to his cheek where she’d previously slapped him. “And I am truly sorry” she said searching his blue eyes for forgiveness.

“Its all forgotten baby, but I will say this Jesse, I think you need a little space to clear your mind, as the last few days well have been intense, I leave for Nashville the day after tomorrow, so I tell you what, I will give you the space to just to breathe and get your wits about you, and maybe you can then decide if you still truly want to come to Nashville, I will be there. But I want you to promise me this, if you do decide to come, please only come because you want to try a new chapter in your life with me, and Jesse, don’t feel pressured to, if you are not ready, I completely understand” Jon said softly as he held her hand.

Jesse smiled, he was truly the sweetest man she’d ever met, he was giving her an out of all of this, Jesse knew she didn’t want that but she knew he was right, she needed a few days to process everything that had been happening.

“Okay it’s a deal” she said, He reached in and wrapped his arms around her squeezing her tight against his chest; she clung to him and hugged him back. She knew this is where she wanted to be, but her heart just needed to let her go.

“Ok baby girl, I need to go, but you ring me if you need anything ok, and maybe I will see you in Nashville?” he smiled as he went to get off the bed, Jesse took his arm.

“Wait” she said, she reached around his neck and brought his head towards her own and pressed her lips against his and pulled away.

“Take care Jesse” Jon said smiling as exited the room, he wanted to beg her to commit to him, but he knew she had to come to that realization on her own. He just hoped that she would.