Chapter Eighty-Six

Chapter Eighty – Six

Jon spent the next thirty minutes up in his study tiding up emails, accepting and declining appointments. Finally satisfied he was at least back in some form of control he went to close his laptop but stopped midway. Jesse wasn't going lay charges, he couldn't do anything in the world to convince her. She was too much like himself at times , he grinned that’s why he loved her. When her mind was made up it was made up. She obviously felt just too strongly on this one. Jon hated it, he was trying so hard to accept it, short of sexually manipulating her further there wasn't going to be much he could do to change her mind.

Rubbing his hand against his chin he thought for a second of ringing Big Tony, a guy who he wasn't proud to know. A few years ago when Jon was receiving death threats from a crazed boyfriend of a fan, he had Big Tony deal to the situation when the police failed to give him any confidence in the situation. It wasn't his proudest moment but he had a family to protect, not just himself and now the situation called for it again.

Jon closed the door to the study and picked up his cell phone dialling the number sucking is his breath. It wasn’t until a thick Italian voice answered he let it go.

"Hello, Tony speaking"

Jon's heart hammered loudly against his ribs, no going back now. "Big Tony, it's Jon Bongiovi, long time no talk" he said staring out the window and shoving his spare hand in his jeans pocket.

"Heyyy Jonny boy, how you doin’? Keeping out of trouble?" Tony asked.

"Yeah, I'm doing fine Tony what about you?" dumb question, he worked for the mob, Tony's life never revolved around keeping out of trouble.

"You know how it goes, can't discuss that but things are on the slow at the moment, what brings you to call though Jonny boy? Having some problems?"

Jon cringed "Yeah, I have a ex-husband that's gone a little crazy on my now fiancé, who I love dearly and she wont press charges against him. I doubt my word against his is going to mean shit... so... yeah" Jon trailed off hoping Tony would read between the lines.

A raspy chuckle vibrated down the phone "I see, so you want someone to pay this guy a visit…, what are you talking? Threats? A bit of rough up?" Tony asked. Jon would never get a hit done and Big Tony knew that.

"Yeah just enough to make him leave her the hell alone, he nearly god damned raped her in the parking lot of her apartment" Jon spat, the anger still very fresh in his veins.

"Ouch, well in that case, I'll reserve a little something special for him. So consider it done, for a fee" Big Tony replied.

Jon snorted "Of course, just send me the email details of the account you want it transferred into and the amount and consider it done"

"Well interest has gone up, but I like you Jonny so we'll keep the same price as last time."

"Thanks Big Tony, I appreciate it, I'll send you the details of who he is and where he lives, and as usual this is strictly confidential" Jon said sternly. Jesse would kill him if she knew he was doing this.

"Jonny, I'm insulted! this is me Big Tones, you're money is as good as my word you know that"

Jon chuckled "I know, thank you Tony, I appreciate this. He can’t get away with this. I won't let it happen. You don't mess with my family and get off clean with a just a fucking restraining order" he said.

Tony laughed "You know Jon if you ever need a career change we could do with a guy like you" Jon knew he was kidding but had to laugh.

"I'll keep that in mind, I've got go to man but I'll be in touch"

"Ciao Jonny" Tony said and then there was silence. Jon closed his cell phone and then quickly filled out the details on the email that Tony would need. He then closed everything down and let out and took a deep breath. Slightly guilty but he was used to taking things into his own hands and if this is how it had to be so be it.

He walked back downstairs in time to see Jesse placing the cutlery on the table she'd set. She didn't look up at him, instead she went back to the kitchen and brought the two plates out and put them down without saying a word.

"Just in time huh?" he grinned walking over and planting a kiss on her temple "Looks great baby, let me pour us some wine" he said picking up the bottle of red she'd chosen and poured them both two glasses.

He shifted and slid into the chair opposite her and with his fork speared some chicken.“This tastes divine baby, we’ll keep you on” he winked.

Jesse smiled and took a sip of her wine. He was acting like nothing had happened? He’d accosted her in the kitchen, made her orgasm along with some threatening words and now just acted like it was an everyday occurrence? She wanted to throw down her fork at him but she remained calm. He just is doing what he thinks best, that’s all Jess. Just let it go. But damn she couldn’t.

“Jon about before” she began, shit she’d said it, no backing out now.

He continued eating “Mmm, What about it baby?” he asked. He didn’t even flinch for a second, she watched him continue to tuck into his dinner. He finally looked up and waved his fork around “What about it?” his steady blue gaze settled on hers.

She picked up her napkin and brought it to her lips, “I was going to let this go, I really was but where the hell do you get off doing what you just did to me in there?” she spat throwing the napkin back down on the table.

“What? You enjoyed it? Yes?” he asked continuing to eat.

She was going to blow, how could he think it was just ok? “SO sexual manipulation is one of your strong points is it? Anything else I should know about that you do when you don’t get your own way before I marry you?” she pushed back her chair and stood up, the clatter of her cutlery hitting the plate. She couldn’t stand how he was acting like nothing was wrong.

Jon bolted upright and grabbed her arm before she headed away “Jess” he said softly. He pulled her into his embrace and held her tightly, her cheek brushed against the fibres of his shirt. “I’m sorry I came across like that, I can’t help myself when I feel strongly about something and especially this” his hand stroked her hair curling a lone strand around her ear. “I don’t understand but I’ll let it go for now” Jon closed his eyes, only because I’ve dealt with it myself.

He pulled her back and cupped her chin; the twist in his heart at her gorgeous big brown eyes looking so sad hit him. “It’s only because I love you so damn much, you know that don’t you?” he asked with the pad of his thumb he caressed her cheek.

She nodded “I know Jon, it’s just...” she closed her eyes. She didn’t even know why she still felt the need to protect Jason like she was.

“It’s ok Jesse, you have the right to feel what you do, I can’t change that but god, just promise me that if anything happens. Or if he tries to see you... anything, you call the police.” He swallowed “I love you too damn much to see anything happen to you ok?” he asked. I’d never forgive myself.

She quickly nodded “I promise I will Jon. I’m sorry I know you want me to do it..."

He placed a finger against her lips “Shhh, it’s over now ok. I’m going to accept this but we’re going to be careful and we have to be extra careful around the kids ok, I told you Dot was going away didn’t I?” he asked her. With at that had been going on he couldn’t remember.

She nodded “I didn’t think it was this soon though?” she asked surprised, her mind suddenly focused on the fact she would have four children to help Jon look after.

“It’s for a week starting Saturday, she’s off to Los Angeles to catch up with an old friend who’s sick. So we get to play parents for the week” he chuckled “You will see me in FULL Dad mode” he teased pressing his lips against her nose.

She laughed and brought her hands up around his neck, the tips of her fingers teasing the hair at his nape. “Full daddy mode huh? Does Daddy get angry?” she asked, a mischievous smirk breaking out on her lips.

She felt the warmness of his body press against hers, and the soft scrape of lips down the side of her neck up to her earlobe “Daddy gets very angry” he whispered nibbling on her lobe.

Shivers racked down her body at his low husky voice teasing her. She’d still be so angry if she didn’t love him so much and knew he was only trying to protect her the way he knew how. Her lips found his in a sensual kiss, “I love you Jon”

“I love you too Jess” and that’s why I had to protect you even if you wouldn’t. You’ll understand one day. I never let things take to chance. Never.

Chapter Eighty-Five

It was a little while later that Jesse woke to a rapping sound coming from the door downstairs. She rolled her head lazily over to see Jon was nestled securely behind her, his leg was curled over her leg and his right hand still cupping her breast protectively as he slept.

“Jon” she whispered “We’ve got to get the door” her voice still a little shallow.

Sleepy Blue eyes peaked through his closed eye lids along with a small yawn and his tongue flickered out and moistened his lips. His gaze finally focused on the mussed up woman that lay in his arms before the last few hours came rushing back through his mind. “Baby it will be the police” he said planting a kiss on her forehead before shifting from her to grab his jeans and pull on his top before padding back down the stairs to the door.

Groaning at the void he’d left moving from her she slid out of bed and grabbed her clothes redressing quickly, tying her hair back up in a loose ponytail she gave herself a once over in the large mirror on the tallboy before sliding on her shoes and joining him downstairs. Time to face reality.

Jon had already let in the two policemen that towered over him into the living area. The older one with many years of experience ingrained on his face tilted his hat at her “Good evening m’am I’m Sergeant Robson, Mr Bongiovi tells us that you’d like to get a restraining order and lay an assault complaint against your ex-husband that attacked you today” the way he spoke about it like it was an every day occurrence blew her away.

She nodded and looked over at Jon “Restraining order yes, I haven’t decided on the charges” Jon’s eyes closed and his lips muttered more than likely a curse word.

“Jesse we discussed this” he said calmly recomposing himself. Jesus Christ.

“No you did. This is my decision” she turned back to the policeman “So what do I need to do for this restraining order?” she asked.

Sergeant Robson pulled the papers out of an A4 leather bound folder and placed them on the table along with a pen. “Just these and we can file it straight away” he paused before speaking again “are you sure about the charges? From what Mr Bongiovi has told us you have grounds to do this, often charges scare the attacker into backing down” he explained.

She shook her head “Not at the moment, I’m filling this in and then that’s it” she said walking over to the table leaving Jon in her wake. He lifted his hand to his face and mulled for a bit. She could make him just about crazy doing this, god if only he had seen it, then he’d lay the damn fucking charges himself as a witness.

Jesse filled out the necessary paper work and signed everything she needed to, it was done. She now had a restraining order on her ex-husband.

“Ok, well just give us a call if you want to discuss or change your mind about those charges, and if he tries anything once he’s been served the papers you call the police straight away” The sergeant instructed.

She nodded as the two policemen left. Jon had fallen strangely quiet but behind those blue eyes she just knew he was brooding. “Shall I start some dinner?” she asked trying to break the silence.

“Yeah we should eat it’s been a long day” he watched her disappear into his kitchen and poke around in the freezer which was always well stocked. He followed her and leaned against the doorframe. So many things he wanted to say but he didn’t so he just watched her decide over what he had in the freezer.

“Steak ok?” she asked not looking up. She could feel the displeasure that was in his stare already but she ignored it.

He nodded not saying much else, he was too busy sulking that he didn’t take reins and make her press the charges. She went about cutting the steak and shifting it into a greased hot pan while she prepared the vegetables.

“So Stephanie enjoyed being at my office? She seemed to have fun, she’s a great girl Jon” Jesse asked dicing the carrots and throwing them in a wok along with the broccoli and onions.

He managed a small grin “Yeah she did, couldn’t stop talking about you and George, he made an impression on her as well” Least that was one good thing, Stephanie hadn’t been able to shut up about her day, even to her mother which in turn would help Dot accept Jesse as a part of his life.

Jesse chuckled “Well he usually does my George, he’s my right hand man, just like Richie is to you” she explained. Satisfied with the dinner cooking away she reached into where she knew Jon kept the wine and chose a bottle of Merlot and grabbed two wine glasses. She knifed the cork and poured the wine.

“He seems a bit of a character” Jon commented accepting the glass from her and bringing it to his lips.

“Oh he is, he’s been there from the start with me, he has great ideas and we gel so well on the same styles of clothes, everything, even men” she teased.

Jon placed his glass on the granite surface, “how long are you going to pretend everything is ok Jess?” he asked.

Jesse looked up at him, here we go. She sighed “I knew you weren’t over this, I could see you brewing the minute the police left” she muttered. “Jon-“

“No Jess, its time for you to listen. I’m not used to seeing my family, and that includes you, making stupid mistakes when I know it can be fixed” he explained walking closer to her, he leaned forward and placed his hands on her hips, tempted to take her right now he tried to continue with his point.

“Jon” she began the smell of his cologne mixed with the fragrant basil and oregano she’d thrown into the wok as he came closer pressing his body against hers. How long was this going to go on? Until she gave in?

“Jess, please, he needs to learn to be punished for what he did, I’m so close to calling some guys I know, to go and pay him a little visit” he whispered his lips fluttering over hers.

Her eyes widened “You wouldn’t do that?” she asked horrified he’d even thought of it.

“No one fucks with my family, I told you that, and if I can’t get you to press charges against the bastard, I will take it into my own hands to ensure he’ll never hurt you again” his lips coasted down the arch of her neck.

There was something overwhelmingly sexy yet scary about the way he was talking, it was the darker side of Jon that she didn’t know existed. Her hands gripped the back of his neck, and his hands kept roaming her body, when one hand slipped up her thigh to inching towards her centre. “Jon please…”

“I will protect you” a finger slid home letting a small cry fall from her lips.

“I won’t let anyone hurt you again” a second finger slipped past the scrap of lace penetrating her, coated with her slick juices he began to pump slowly.

“God, Jon… the dinner…” she managed to get out, the sizzling of the steak beside her and the buzzing in her brain that was about to make her collapse
, god she wanted him now, her nipples hardened against the soft material of her bra, craving to be suckled by his lips. His tight groin ground up against her telling her he was ready too.

“Never” he whispered sucking on her ear lobe as the third finger slipped past the heated flesh causing her to groan. “Do you understand me?” he asked her nibbling along her slender jaw line and back around to her full lips. “Let me protect you Jess, please” he begged. The fire in his kiss consumed her.

The rocking of her body against his hand built momentum, feeling her whole start to body tighten, awakening under his spell. “Please…Jon” this time it was a plea to let her cum, not to stop. “Please” she breathed.

“That’s it baby, let it all go, you don’t want to burn dinner now do you? I’m not stopping till you do” his words still silkily dark but teasing. He went deeper and faster until her body clenched around his hand and the release ripped from her throat.

She slumped over his shoulder, panting, catching her breath back, speechless. He removed his hand from her and straightened up. “I need to make some calls, let me know when dinner is done ok?” he kissed her forehead and turned to walk away. She nodded watching him leave, what the hell just happened here? She shakily pulled herself together and went back to stirring the wok. Maybe she had made a mistake not laying the charges, just maybe.

Chapter-Eighty Four

Jon sat thinking long and hard about the day’s events, the sadness in Jesse’s eyes still burning through his mind. What the hell was he doing? Sitting out here alone when downstairs the woman he loved and cared about more in the world was trying to deal with an ex-husband that was psycho. Fuck he was an idiot sometimes. He got to his feet and bounced down the stairs to an empty living room. A small shred of panic flickered through him thinking she’d left but relief soon set in when he saw her lone figure sitting out on the balcony.

He crept over to the sliding door that was slightly ajar and watched her silently. The cool night breeze teased her long brown waves of hair that fell loosely around her shoulders. Her large brown eyes that he forever could get lost in were hidden as her eyes were closed, she was asleep. Jon could see the remains of the silvery tracks that still glistened down her cheeks against the reflection of the city lights.

He walked over and lifted her gently into his arms she stirred a little, her eyes fluttering open meeting his. “It’s ok baby, just taking you up to bed” he whispered nosing into her hair. The smell of that vanilla mixed in with woman danced across his nostrils, she was insatiable.

Her arms snaked around his neck and held on as he carried her to the bedroom. She pulled him down into her when he laid her down needing his warmth and comfort. The need to be with him, feel his touch raced through her nerves. She reached up and kissed him, his lips were always so full and softer than you expected. Drawing his bottom lip into her mouth she sucked hard eliciting a small groan from him.

His hands found the hem of her top inching it north. He laid claim on her skin with his lips, sucking and nipping across the silky skin following his hands. She groaned inwardly as he found the clasp her bra setting her breasts free and at the mercy of his mouth. Teasing circular motions around her nipple it hardened in his mouth making it easier to suckle on. Her body arched high into him, feeling her hands fist into his hair silently begging him for more.

There was to be nothing rushed about this time, this was about showing her how much he loved her, and how she deserved to be loved. Moving to the other breast his thumb scraped along her wet hard nipple he’d released from his mouth. “That’s it, let go to me Jess” he breathed over the delicate flesh. The tormented moans began to slip from her mouth as he kept the sweet torture building.

“Jon” she managed to choke out on a sob, he was driving her over the edge, she wanted more, god did she want more. She needed him to fill her up and push her all the way to the bottom of the cliff that she was teetering on but still his assault on her breasts kept her pinned to the bed.

Finally his lips offered relief, but the way his body crawled down hers indicating it was only going to be momentarily. The desire burnt bright in his blue eyes which he kept firmly on hers hitching her skirt up. She gasped when he drew a singular line down the centre of her silk g-string teasing her of what would come next.

“Please…” she wiggled to move closer to him to deter him into some urgency but he just shook his head and nosed his way along her inner thigh letting his tongue slide out to taste her still denying her of the one thing that she was fawning for.

All thoughts were long forgotten of stand-offs in parking lots and dark eyed ex-husbands when his tongue pressed past the fabric barrier and she felt the warm slick feeling of his tongue slide into her knot of nerves. She arched further into him, a sense of surrender letting him know she was his for the taking.

The rich heady taste of her made his cock twitch still tightly confided in his jeans below. He’d get his release, oh yes he would but right now it was about driving her to distraction. Her own hand was desperately reaching for him but all she could grab was hair so she gave up and reached for her breast rubbing her nipple against her palm to strengthen already the mind blowing sensation she was about to let burst through her blood.

The first release ripped violently sending shocks radiating to her toes which curled from the waves of pleasure that washed over her. Jon waited letting quivers and jolts settle before he continued.

He was going for more? Fuck. “Jon... Please...” she tugged at his hair to motion him back up to her but he ignored it. His fingers slid inside her, one, two and then three causing her breathing to become shallow and her voice start to become hoarse.

Leaning up he placed a kiss on her stomach “Soon” he offered before continuing to flex inside her reaching parts of her that he knew drove her crazy. Desperate to let the next orgasm he watched her cupping her breasts again in an effort to build the feeling faster but Jon reached up and batted away her hands. “No cheating Jesse... just let yourself give in to it…”

“I want you” she breathed thrashing her head from side to side against the pillow, sweaty strands plastered her cheeks her teeth bit down on her bottom lip concentrating on what the man she had submitted everything to he was doing. Each flick of his finger penetrated her more taking her higher till at last she was set free once again.

Her warm sticky juices flooded his hands taking great pride in the way she screamed through the room and almost flew to the ceiling from his magic. Her stilted body lay panting, desperate for air. Clutching across at the sheets bunching them under her hands, she was wrecked. Well and truly spent but why did she still crave more?

The heat of his kisses travelled all the way back up her body while taking time to treat each dent, each curve with the ruthlessness of his tongue. Her nipples were aching and raw from his touches but that didn’t stop him paying them a little flick and nibble that made her think her eyes would roll right back into her head. She was ready to go again? Christ.

At last his lips crashed on hers, hungry and swollen from all his hard work. Her hands shifted to his buckle, and with a short flick it hit the ground with a thud. Kissing him still her hands slid his jeans slowly down over the curve of his ass digging her nails in tightly.

“In me” she managed between kisses “in me now” her voice commanded the consciousness that now was stirring in his cock.

He wrestled with his clothes and soon they were all but a pool on the floor. Hovering above her he gazed over her body taking her all in, she was restless for him and god damn if he wasn’t for her. He needed her now, needed to erase all that tension and fear of the day.

She cried out slapping her hands on his shoulders when he entered her, a whirlpool of emotions flooding her. She nibbled along that rigid jaw line, licking the dip in his chin before drawing on his lips once more and he began to move in her. It was heat on heat as she met him thrust for thrust. Each raggered breath she could muster between the long hot kisses sent cries, groans and undoubtedly would be soon screams into the room.

He hissed feeling the pain soon that was soon overridden by pleasure by her nails sinking further into his skin. “Harder, I need it harder”

Sweat poured off his temples splashing onto her body like raindrops when he increased the pace. He ran his hand down the underside of her calf before lifting it across his shoulder.

“God Jon!” she cried the hysteria already at breaking point in her brain, she couldn’t take much more. She couldn’t. Jon felt her clench down around his cock and grunted before he stopped, she was ready and so was he but he need to see her, see her enjoy him. He rolled her so the coolness of the sheets hit his back and she was now riding above him.

“Let me see you cum, I need to see it” his eyes filled with a deep hunger inviting her to move.

She leaned forward taking him deeper beginning to rock, her hands splayed on his chest through the soft fur that lay there. Making sure her thumbs occasionally flicked across his rock hard nipples she closed her eyes and lost herself in the feeling of tight fist wrapped around a hard shaft beneath her.

She was a vision and a half lost in the moment above him, her hair now dishevelled her body rising in a dance, his hands gripping her hips to guide her. He bucked her with each fall of her body till the explosion gripped them screaming each others names.

His hot seed shot through her and then she tumbled, destroyed and well spent falling into the covers with him. He held her close steadying his breathing waiting to come down from the incredible high they’d both experienced.

“Good fuck” she muttered, her heart still hammering loudly against her chest.

Taking a deep breath he pulled her in close “I concur” he kissed her forehead. Sated and sleepy they both soon rested in each others arms. Jesse just managing to hear his voice before she drifted into a contented sleep.

“I’ll never let him hurt you, never”

Chapter Eighty-Three

Jon stood defiant in the parking lot waiting for the next move. “Well come on, show your face Jason, I know you’re out there” he shouted the echo of his voice bouncing back at him.

With a lazy smirk on his face Jason stood up from where he was concealed behind a station wagon. So he wanted to play, he wanted to be the man in front of Jesse and prove himself as chief protector. Jason walked around showing himself to Jon standing a few metres from him.

Jason was much bigger than him, his tall frame shadow easily creeping over Jon. Jon didn’t care, the very sight of the man in all his smugness was enough to make Jon want to lunge at him and pound him mercilessly into to the floor.

“Keep the fuck away from Jesse, if you ever so much breathe on her again, you’ll wish that you were still locked away in the Prisoner of War Camp” the words rocketed out of him and hit Jason hard in the chest.

His fists tightened and his chest clenched Oh no he fucking just didn’t. His eyes narrowed but still holding his ground he spoke fiercely.

“What gives you the right Rock-star to come waltzing back in here like you’re better than the rest of us? Converting my Jesse to your twisted ways of the world. She’s better than that, she’s better than all of you and your fake rich buddies”

Jesse sat poised in the car, her cell-phone still clutched firmly in her hand. She should have called the police but her eyes were still firmly glued to the two man stand off that was happening right in front of her. Jason could really hurt Jon, she knew exactly what he was trained in. Her slender body was beginning to shake with fear so she couldn’t just sit there and just wait it out.

“What gives you the fucking right to overpower a woman when you know she can’t defend herself? Only a coward does that, at least have a go at someone that has a chance to defend themselves” Jon spat back. The fire in his eyes burned bright with anger. There was no backing down now.

A crooked smile spread across Jason’s twisted face “And I suppose that’s you Rock-star? Bring it on” he said shifting forward slapping his fist against his hand.

Jesse couldn’t watch anymore, in seconds had opened the car door and found herself rushing over and standing between the two men.

Jon’s eyes widened “Jesse!! Get the hell back in that car” he demanded. What the fuck was she doing?

She shook her head staring at both of the men “No, Jon don’t do this, you can’t take him, he’ll hurt you for god’s sake” she turned and looked at Jason with pleading eyes “Please Jason, just leave us alone”

Jon was enraged, was she stupid putting herself in the middle of them? It was fucking dangerous for a start. He reached out and grabbed her arm but she pulled away.

“No Jon,” she turned again facing the man she once loved.

“You’re better than this Jesse, come with me, we can get away from all this” Jason held out his hand towards her. This time the sincerity in his deep brown eyes hit her hard.

The vision tugged at her heartstrings, she didn’t want Jason but the need to break his heart she didn’t want either.

“I can’t Jason, it’s over I’m with him” she spoke softly. She felt her heart rip in two, the anguish that was fighting within Jason was so obvious in his face. ”You need some help Jason, this has been a lot to deal with” she kept her voice calm and caring. The sadness in his eyes soon disappeared and was replaced by rage.

His hands twisted and the blood began to boil, she thought he was fucking crazy now? Fuck Bon Jovi really had got to her. He took another step forward startling Jesse and grabbed her on the arm “I’m not fucking crazy, your boyfriend tell you that?” he hissed.

Jon jumped into action lunging at Jason’s arm to get it the hell off Jesse, he hit him with such a force Jason was taken off guard and fell backwards on his ass on the hard cold concrete.

“Get in the fucking car now!” Jon grabbed her arm and dragged her back to the Chevelle she was about to protest, her gaze still firmly on the man on the floor.

“Jesse?” Jason reached out for her sadly “Please don’t leave me… please…I beg you…” a broken man lay helplessly on the concrete reaching out to the one woman that he thought could save him.

“In the car Jesse” Jon gave her a hard look, all he was concentrating on right now was getting them the hell out of here. He twisted his body to help her into the car closing the door hard behind her and then rushing to the driver’s side before jerking the car into gear. With a loud screech he took off out of the parking lot to the safe confines of the road.

Jesse sat in the front seat, the shock vibrated off her body. Jon flicked his gaze across her again mentally making sure she was ok. The tension closed around his heart seeing the silver tracks slowly inch down her cheeks. “You ok?” he asked trying to dial back the anger in his voice. He reached out for a gentle touch on her knee.

She nodded the numbness she felt radiated through her body. What had just happened here? She felt so helpless, the image of Jason sprawled out on the concrete with a desperate reach firmly in her mind.

Jon sighed and pulled onto the highway in the direction of home “Jesse, you should have never put yourself in the middle of us like that, it was dangerous and quite frankly stupid” he said. He hated that she thought he couldn’t even defend himself, it had bruised his ego. It was stupid to feel like that but he couldn’t help it.

Jesse blinked and looked across at him dumbfounded “What was stupid was you wanting a standoff with a fully combat trained marine? What did you think was going to happen there?” she asked annoyed. “Did you really expect that you were going to kick his ass?” the sarcasm dripped from her voice.

“Oh so I can’t defend myself now?” he asked annoyed keeping his eyes on the road. His hands were beginning to turn white from the way he was gripping the steering wheel.

“Jon he’s a marine, you of all people should know what they are trained to do” she pointed out. He could have killed you.

Jon huffed as he didn’t reply he kept focused on the road ahead, his mind spiralling into a whirl wind of thoughts. Yes he could have killed me, but I couldn’t just let him get away with hurting you, and being anywhere near Steph. What if Jason hadn’t been interrupted when he’d tried to approach you? God. He’d be calling the police when they got home, hell yes he would be.

“You still never should have done that” he muttered. Rain began to fall splattering hard against the windscreen as he drove them to his apartment. Pulling into the underground basement he killed the engine and reached over to the backseat for her bags.

“Let’s get you inside” Jon opened the passenger door and led her into the lift. Soon they were walking into the foyer of what would become her home until they had bought their own. There was no way she was going back there alone. His touch on her lower back was gentle and reassuring even though his tone currently was not.

Jesse sunk down in the large leather couch pulling her knees up to her chest and wrapped her arms around them. She could hear Jon in the kitchen mulling around making coffee but the distinct sound of his voice meant he was on his cell-phone. What was she going to do? Jason was losing it, but again that little niggling pain inside of her still felt that ounce of guilt and sympathy for him.

Jon walked back into the room minutes later carrying two cups of coffee, he rested one down in front of Jesse and sat next to her on the couch with his own. He hated how disturbed she seemed and quiet she was.

“I’ve called the police, they’re on their way, and you’ll be signing a restraining order against him and charging him with assault” he said. In his mind there was no negotiation with this.

“I’ll sign the restraining order” she said. She didn’t want to charge him with assault but she knew she should.

Jon looked over to her, his brow arched “Jesse, listen to me. You’ll be pressing charges against him. You want him just roaming around out there? Waiting till you are alone again for his chance? I won’t have it.” Jon’s lips tightened before he spoke again “Ok I’ll hire you a bodyguard then” he said matter of factly.

A bodyguard? Was he serious? “What?! No way Jon, that’s just ridiculous” she said. She didn’t need a freaking bodyguard.

He raked his hand through his hair, feeling his patience dramatically thinning “Jesse, why do you feel sorry for him? I know he’s your ex, I’m trying to understand here where your mind is at here, because I think it’s fucking crazy to be honest” there he’d said it. He just didn’t get it, she nearly was god damned raped and her ex-husband was a madman and yet she still defended him.

“I’m so confused, I know that’s not Jason, don’t you think that hurts me? Knowing he’s obviously screwed up from his experiences, and no-one is helping him” she hated that she still felt like that but she just couldn’t abandon the guilt that was etched in her heart.

Jon left a whistle fall from his lips “Look baby I know it’s hard to see him like this, but this is not your fault and not your responsibility you’ve been nothing but nice to him since he came back. Even if you know that it’s not his normal nature, its still dangerous, do you really want to risk your life, mine and the kids?” he asked seriously.

She gasped “God no, of course I don’t Jon, God no!” Fuck this was just complicated. She loved Jon and couldn’t bear if anything happened to him or his children.

“Well that’s what you need to think about Jess, as that’s exactly what you’re doing by letting that creep run around without any discipline. So you think about that” he had to leave her to mull on her thoughts before he said something he regretted. He picked himself up with his coffee and walked out of the room up to the bedroom to sit on his balcony. To give her space, him space until the police arrived. Trying to resist the urge to fix everything he had to let her come to the decision by herself. He’d done that far too much with Dot, but this time he knew he was right.

The empty feeling hit her when he left, she almost felt cold when he disappeared up the stairs leaving her alone. She couldn’t blame him for being angry, she really couldn’t he was just trying to protect her and his family. Taking her own coffee she slipped out to the north facing balcony from the living area and sat down in the large outdoor chair propping her feet up on the ledge overlooking the city. Lost in thought as the night sky blanketed across the skyline tears of fear frustration and an overwhelming sense of loss slid down her cheeks.

Chapter Eighty-Two

Snapping his cell-phone shut, Jon finally hung up from the conference call he had been on. The little envelope on the screen flashed indicating he had a new voicemail. He quickly listened to it pulling on his charcoal woollen coat walking out the door to the car. Jesse’s brief and no nonsense message worried him. He pressed call-back and climbed into his Chevelle firing the ignition before pulling out into the New York traffic.

It rang a couple of times before she finally picked up “Hello?” she asked. The timid tone in her voice was uncharacteristic of her and made him worry.

“Jesse it’s me baby, I was going to ring to see if you felt like Chinese or Mexican takeout and then I got your message, what’s wrong?” he asked.

She took a deep breath and attempted to say it “It was Jason, he-he was here before in the parking lot” she managed to piece out trying her very best not to lose it over the phone to him. He’d only fret more.

Jon slammed on the breaks almost causing the Alfa Romeo behind him to rear end him. “He what! What did he do? Are you ok?” questions flew from his mouth faster than the thoughts that were spiralling.

“I’m ok, I’m in the house now can you just get here please?” she asked her voice cracking like thin ice. Not to sound desperate but she needed him there right now.

Jon closed his eyes “I’ll be there in five, don’t move, don’t open the door anything until you hear my voice at the door ok?” he instructed pumping the accelerator which started him moving again. Slamming the phone shut he threw it on the passenger seat and concentrated on the road. This didn’t sound good, her words stayed firmly etched in his mind along with visions of Jason all over her. His hands gripped tighter on the wheel trying to concentrate on just getting there as quickly as possible without causing an accident. I'll kill him if he's hurt her.

He finally pulled into the parking lot, grabbing his keys and cell-phone he got out of the car locking it behind him. He jammed his hands in his coat quickly shifting towards her apartment oblivious to someone watching him from a distance.

So she called the Calvary? Typical White Knight behaviour. And that stupid interfering business man wanting to play the hero. He’d almost had her, she would have changed her mind. He just needed to get her alone, or eliminate the ONE thing that was keeping them apart.

Jesse sat waiting on the couch with her cell-phone clutched firmly in her hand. She wanted to ring the police and she had no doubt that Jon would make her.

But on her ex-husband? She reached under the large oak coffee table and pulled out a leather bound photo album which contained all their wedding pictures. She slowly flipped through the many photos that described so fluently the love she used to have for this man.

“God what’s happened to you Jason?” she asked, her finger running lightly over one of the photos of him with her cutting their wedding cake. He was smiling and looking like he didn’t have a care in the world, which held a very different look in his eyes that she had seen just minutes ago.

She just about leapt out of her seat when a knock came to the door. She closed the album and made her way towards the door.

“Who’s there?” she asked cautiously praying that it was Jon.

“Jess, babe it’s me” Jon’s voice came through the wood with an edge of comfort.

She quickly unbolted the door and unlocked it opening it just a crack to see two blue eyes shining with concern back at her. She opened the door wider letting him in. He scooped her into his arms immediately, her cheek pressed against the soft wool of his coat wrapping her arms tightly around his waist.

“God, are you ok?” he asked quickly looking her over for any visible signs of damage.

“I’m fine now that you’re here” she said not wanting to let go of his arms tightly around her giving her the comfort she’d craved. She hated feeling so defenceless. Damsel in distress was never her style at all.

Finally they parted Jon holding her at arm’s length “Tell me what happened Jess” he said sweeping the door shut with his foot.

“I was just coming in and he was there, starting rambling, I was supposed to meet him after work and I never showed he came closer and pressed me against the car” she began.

Jon’s eyes widened “He did what?” he shouted almost unintentionally but the anger started to simmer from deep within his belly. She was supposed to meet him?

She nodded “He wanted to, tried to pull my top up and ...” she trailed off almost shivering the feel of him against her skin.

“He tried to rape you?” Jon said pulling out his cell phone till he felt her hand on his. He felt his gut clench at that thought, his hands all over her body touching what was no longer his.

She nodded “I think that’s where he was headed”. She jumped when he slammed his hand down on the table.

“That bastard! I will fucking kill him, you hear me?” the rage in his eyes swept through her like wildfire. She’d never seen him so angry before.

“I don’t want you to call the police Jon” she said timidly.

Jon just about doubled over from shock, was she serious? She was defending the asshole? “You can’t be serious Jess, he tried to assault you? You’re just going to let him get away with this? No fuckin’ way” he spat.

“Jon please” she said “hear me out”

He ignored her plea “How did you get inside anyway without him?” he asked looking around for any signs of a struggle.

She still had her grip on his arm, fingering the soft wool there she continued.

“Shaw, my neighbour came home and interrupted him so I was able to leave without Jason following me, he knew Jason was causing me grief I guess” she explained.

Thank fuck for Shaw. Jon pulled out of her grasp and continued to dial the police.

“And what if he hadn’t come, then what? He could of…Jesus Jess, you could have been” no he couldn’t say it. Already his mind was plotting how to get her out and the private detective and bodyguards he would be hiring from all this.

“He’s my ex-husband Jon I just feel weird calling the cops on him” she tried to explain. She pulled away finally from him and walked into the living room. Jon sighed and followed her. He was trying to be understanding but seriously how the hell could she have any sympathy for this man? If Dot had turned into a psycho he would be doing everything he could without a question unless he still….unless she still, god she still cared about him?

“You still love him?” he asked. The question came and so did the heavy silence that followed it.

Jesse spun around and saw he was dead serious. “No- god, no not like that Jon, is that what you think?” she asked. How could he think that? Again. Christ.

Jon shrugged “Well you tell me why you nearly got raped and we’re not calling the police” he challenged.

She knew he was right he should be calling the police and having a restraining order put on him but god what was stopping her. Guilt? Sympathy for his situation? Something was making her from not doing it.

“I don’t know Jon, I knew he was off when he came in to work today he was all edgy, it was my fault he came here tonight” she said closing her eyes.

Jon nearly just about fell over “He came to work today?” Jon exploded “when Stephanie was there?” he asked the anger filtering into his eyes. What the fuck was he doing at her work? His daughter was subjected to this asshole?

“And you didn’t think to tell me this when I picked her up? Fuck Jesse!” he exclaimed.

Jesse cringed at the rising volume in his voice. “Calm down, she was fine, I spoke to him at the door and didn’t let him in. That’s when I agreed to meet him after work but I didn’t turn up so I guess that’s why he came here, he was visibly pissed that I stood him up” she explained to him.

“Did he see her? Know who she was?” Jon asked, now it had gone beyond just Jesse. This changed everything.

She nodded waiting for the backlash.

He paced around the room “What if he’d gone after her? What if it had been her and not you?” he accused her grinding his teeth silently. "I would never of forgiven myself"

"Oh and you think I would?, I didn't know he was going to show up Jon I thought I had it under control, I didn’t realize what he was doing till he came back tonight, Jon please, I’m sorry”

He had to get her out of her, to his place, he wouldn’t take no for an answer now. He tried to understand her reluctance to call the police but now his daughter was involved? No fucking way.

“Get a bag, you’re coming back to my place no augments” he demanded. It was time to take control of this.

Jesse nodded, it was best not to argue with him, he was so angry with her. She walked up the stairs and pulled out her large sports bag and started to pack her clothes and personal items that she would need over the next couple of days. Tears again threatened at the corners of her eyes as she packed. How did it come to this? He was driving her out of her home, the same one that they used to share together as a blissfully married couple. Jon was so mad at her for involving Stephanie.

Jon stood tapping his foot on the ground. He was so angry, more so at the situation not Jesse. She did need to understand that his kids weren’t just ordinary kids. He had a responsibility to Dot and his children to protect them from his lifestyle. Jesse needed to know that. Once the sound of drawers opening and closing fell to a steady silence Jon treaded carefully up the stairs to find her. He knew he'd yelled at her unintentionally and probably had ended up scaring her a little.

“Jess?” he asked walking into her room where she lay on her side curled on the double bed with small sobs shaking her body. He rushed over to her and kneeled down beside the bed.

“Baby, its ok…” he hushed stroking her hair. “I’m sorry I yelled but I’m worried about my girls being in the same place as a madman” tilting her head making her eyes meet his.

She nodded “I know I didn’t tell him who Steph was but he guessed” she said quietly.

Jon’s grip tightened around the sheets “So he knows it’s my daughter?” he asked the coolness in his voice drove her crazy.

“He wants me Jon, not her, this is my entire fault” she said sadly.

“How is it your fault Jess?” he asked softly stroking her hair. God don't blame yourself Jess.

“He’s just in shock that things have changed so much from when he’s been back, it has to hurt Jon, right? How would you feel in his shoes?” she asked him.

She was really asking him to be sympathetic towards the bastard? His jaw clenched. “Jesse this is not your fault and I don’t want you feeling guilty because he’s turned into a raving nut bar” he said. “And I’m sorry I don’t feel sorry for him, but I don’t not one bit” Jon said standing up and holding out his hand for her “come on I need to get you home”.

She took his hand and he pulled her up off the bed to a standing position. He picked up her bag and led her downstairs waiting for her to lock the place up before finally leading her to his car.

Jon popped his trunk and placed her bags in there before opening the passenger door for her. The moving shadow out of the corner of his eye caught his attention. The figure darted behind another car before he realized who exactly it would be. That’s it.

“Keep this door locked no matter what ok?” he said slamming it shut. Jesse was about to ask what was going on as Jon paced across the parking lot.

“Show you face you coward less bastard, SHOW IT NOW”

Chapter-Eighty One

Jesse glanced down at her watch, five thirty-eight. She was on her way home from the office. Jon had been and picked up Stephanie who Jesse couldn’t remember the last time she'd had so much fun at work that afternoon. Things had been busy but Stephanie had fitted right in and even ended up answering Jesse’s calls for a bit. She smiled to herself pulling into the parking lot of her complex. Finally she felt like she knew one of the kids just that little better.

She turned off the ignition grabbed her bag and coat and lifted herself out of the car. There was an eerie silence around the place as dusk was settling in. Her phone beeped loudly echoing through the concreted area. Fishing through her red leather purse she found her phone and flipped it open.

Steph cannot STOP talking about today. See you at 7 gorgeous. You have the wine. I’ll bring dinner.
J x

She grinned into her screen and was about to reply when she almost walked straight into someone.

“Shit, I’m so sorry” she said stuttering looking straight into angry brown eyes. Jason. His appearance was overwhelmingly ominous and he was pissed. She could see it not only in his eyes but the way his hands were clenched into fists at his side. What the hell was he doing here?

“Jason!” she said cringing at how surprised she sounded.

“Yes it's me Jess, forget that we had a meeting after work or were you two busy playing text buddies with Rock-star boy?” he asked. She took two steps backwards till feeling the cool steel of the car hit her backside through the wool blend skirt she had on. Something about him was really starting to scare her.

“Jason” she said calmly “time just got away on me, I’m sorry” she apologised. He inched closer, so close that the aroma of beer mixed in with his cologne wrapped around her senses.

He laughed and crossed his arms “You’re not sorry. Not one bit. What’s happened to you Jesse? Am I not good enough for you anymore? You never were the social climbing type even in all your height in your fashion world you remained so genuine and impartial to the hypocrisy that exists in your industry.” The darkness in his eyes slowly crept back in.

“I want you to leave” she stammered. Her heart was beating loudly against her chest threatening to explode right out and into his hands.

He leaned forward his lips inches away from hers “Leave? I don’t think you do. Come on Jess come back over from the dark side you know you want to” his lips teased her own. Her eyes closing, and her body shaking. Who was this man? This wasn’t the man she married at all.

His warm heat brushed over her cheek, his arms sliding up her sides lifting her top to reveal skin. “Jason, please…” she stammered. God please stop.

His lips hit her ear “When I was tied up in that camp and they threatened to kill us everyday…even left us rope in the room if we wanted to hang ourselves…you know what the only thing that kept me sane was?” his calloused fingers slid up her sternum to scrape along the bottom of the lace of her bra.

She bit her lip there was she couldn’t take him he was a Marine for god’s sake. “Jason, I’m asking you please let me go. This isn’t right” she pleaded.

Jason ignored her words, his thumbs brushing by the tips of her breasts instantly hardening at his touch. God how much he wanted her, wanted to take her right now and screw her to the hood of the car.

She moaned inwardly. This couldn’t feel good. It just couldn't.

“It was you Jesse” he continued “the thought of getting out of this god forsaken hellhole so I could come home into your arms. Make love to you, fuck you blind like we used to, till we couldn’t breathe…” his voice had grown raspy and dangerously low.

Her skin goosed and tears pricked at the corner of her eyes. She just wanted to scream her way into her apartment and lock the door but right now she was pinned like a rack of meat to the butcher’s cutting board. He was so much bigger than her he’d be able to do whatever he wanted with her, she had no doubt.

With his arousal pressed hard against her stomach warning bells sounded in her mind but no-one could hear them. “Jason, we can’t do this. Its over” she said trying to sound diplomatic as possible. His eyes lifted and drilled into hers, pressing his forehead hard against hers.

“I can’t let you go Jesse. I just can’t. I love you too much and I know you still love me... say it” he demanded and like a fiery dragon his hot breath consumed her.

His grip tightened on her body. The urge to scream rose through her like a freight train. “I love Jon, Jason, its over” she whispered keeping her eyes closed waiting for the reaction. Too scared to meet his eyes.

God. She was lying, he just knew she was. She loved him. She swore at the alter she always would in life and death. That fucking Jon needed to go.

“If he wasn’t here would you have me?” he asked quietly.

Her breath caught in her throat seeing the madness in his eyes. He meant it as well.

“Don’t say things like that Jason, please…you don’t mean it” she had to get inside to call Jon and call the police. He was fucking crazy. One part of her heart ached for how this had ruined him but the other feared for the life of the one that she now loved more than life itself.

The brightness of headlights intruded their space causing her eyes to slam shut and she felt Jason release the grip he had on her arms. Thank you GOD she silently prayed.

She smiled at the middle aged business man that got out from the Black BMW. She didn’t know his name but knew he lived in the complex.

“Everything alright here?” he asked obviously seeing the uneasiness in her eyes.

“Sure he was just leaving” Jesse said before Jason could even think about saying anything. She pulled her coat on, swung her bag over her shoulder and walked away from him. He couldn’t follow her now, no way.

The astute business man waited for Jesse to catch up to him before walking her into the complex. Once safely at her door he asked "Everything ok? It didn’t look it from where I was standing”

She fumbled with her keys and jimmied the lock till the door opened. “It is now, I’m calling my fiancé and the police as soon as I’m inside. Just someone I am having little trouble with” she admitted.

“Ok, well call me if you need to I’m in apartment eight up there” he said pointing. “And it’s Shaw by the way” he said sticking his hand out.

She smiled into crystal blue eyes framed with cropped almost platinum blond hair.

“Pleased to meet you, It's Jesse, and thanks for rescuing me” she said shaking his hand and walking inside.

“You’re welcome Jesse, take care” he said as she closed the door behind him and bolted it. She leaned with her back pressed against the door. Her hands still unsteady with fear fumbled for her cell phone in her bag and dialled Jon’s number. It went straight to voicemail. Shit where are you?

She left a brief message trying not to sound off centre but she was sure it would come across that way. Making sure again that the locks were on the door along with the chain and bolt she walked to the kitchen and poured herself two fingers of Jack Daniels and waited.

Chapter Eighty

“Jason? What are you doing here?” Jesse got up and walked to the door and stood to partially obscure his view. She sucked in her breath at his appearance, the edginess in his demeanour had her a little wary. His face had a five o’clock shadow that was inching around his jaw line and lack of sleep was evident from the black rings around his eyes.

“What can’t a friend come and see a friend?” he asked. She was obviously a little rattled to see him and the young girl in the room behind her just watched them carefully.

Jesse sighed “Of course you can but I was going to call you later, I’m kind of a little busy at the moment” she whispered not wanting to draw too much attention to him with Stephanie right there.

“Work experience?” Jason asked nodding in the young girl’s direction that looked vaguely familiar to him but he couldn’t picture it.

There was no way that she was telling him that it was Jon’s daughter “That’s right, she is just spending the day with me to see what the fashion industry is like” Jesse explained nervously hoping that Jason would take the hint and leave.

Jason looked behind her and back at her and slyly grinned “Its Jon’s daughter isn’t it?” The resemblance in the eyes was uncanny. Why the hell was Jesse so uneasy about it?

Jesse didn’t answer him, the voice deep inside her was screaming that she needed to get Jason out of here and quick.

“Jason, we’re really busy, can I meet you after work? But if it’s the divorce that you want discuss maybe we should be waiting till the lawyers?” she bit down on her lip as the soft lines in his face suddenly turned hard and his brown eyes darkened.

He shifted his feet and moved inches closer to her “So that’s how it’s going to be then? Five years you just want to throw away, not even give the time of day?” his voice fell dangerously low. This wasn’t the Jason that she knew and loved once upon a time and truth be told he was starting to scare her.

Please just leave.

She forced a smile on her face “Not at all Jason, I just need to get some important stuff done today” she had to keep him calm. This wasn’t the place to do this, not here, not now.

Jason forced himself to dial down the anger that was raging through this blood, so the rock star had turned her too. What had happened to the sweet sassy Jesse he loved and adored? He’s turned you against me too. Damn him.

“Ok Jesse, after work though? Just you and me?” he asked softly this time reaching out and putting his hand on her arm.

Her eyes fell to his hand and then back to his. Her body stiffened at the touch, what the hell was wrong here? Why did she get such a bad feeling?

Say yes, anything to get him out of here. She tried to conceal the unsteadiness of her body underneath his slight touch and nodded “Meet me at Jimmy’s at five” she said.

He stood back satisfied “Jimmy’s at five, I’ll see you then” he said before he turned around and left the office. Jesse closed the door and locked it before leaning in against it closing her eyes. Her heart was beating loudly in her chest. She again forced the intermittent panic and turned around and smiled at Steph.

“Now where were we?” she asked knowing instantly the look in Steph’s eyes was going to ask her questions.

“Who was that?” she asked. Jesse still looked shaken up to her; he must have been someone nasty.

“That was Jason, my ex-husband, your daddy told you about him?” Jesse asked walking back to her desk. She was tempted to email the security of the building and bar Jason from coming back in the building.

Steph followed her and sat in the chair opposite her desk “Yeah he did, was he ok, he seemed angry about something?” she asked. Jesse fumbled with the sharpie on her desk trying to stay calm she had to in front of Stephanie.

“He just wants to talk about the divorce, since I’m marrying your dad, it needs to become official, and I guess in some ways Jason might still be having a hard time accepting I’m with your Daddy now” Jesse tried to explain as simply as she could. She had to only assume that was the reason Jason seemed to be perturbed. And she’d expected it to be honest with the way he’d taken it so easily when she’d chosen Jon. But something was different, she couldn’t put her finger on exactly what though.

“Do you still love him?” Stephanie asked curiously.

Jesse smiled “Oh Steph, its hard to explain yes and no” she said. How did you explain it to the daughter of the man you were meant to be marrying?

“Try me, I won’t tell Dad” she said honestly her ocean blue eyes sincere.

“Well….” Jesse fiddled with the edges of the corners of her diary before continuing. “Somewhere still inside me I care about him, he’s the man I did marry. But Steph when he died, and this sounds weird but I buried my love for him in a way with him. But I still feel guilty that I don’t love him, after everything he went through.” She said honestly.

Steph nodded, wow Jesse was a really nice person and so open. Worried she might be sounding nosy she actually was genuinely interested how someone comes to make that decision.

“He still really loves you?” she asked.

Jesse nodded “I think so Steph” Jesse pulled herself together and stood up “See, this is why you don’t need to worry about boys for a long long time, you hear?” she teased trying to change the mood.

Stephanie laughed “Now you sound like my Dad.” Both of the women shared a knowing smile of understanding before Steph went back to the table of material.

“So where were we?” she asked picking back up the slim piece of material Jesse was about to start on and held it out to her with a grin.

“Right yes! I was teaching you how to make a boring pair of jeans not so boring” she said taking her seat back at the sewing machine. The next few hours flew past as Jesse and Steph talked more fashion and perused over the summer line Jesse was working on with Stephanie offering screeds of ideas that Jesse was definitely going to execute.

When George came in and took them out for lunch at the local café he entertained Stephanie even more than before which left Jesse to digest the events of the morning as she sipped her orange juice. The way Jason was, so uneasy and almost anxious wasn’t like him at all. Always the strong confident one, being in the Marines had taught him that, always straight up and didn’t mess around but now Jesse felt like he’d become a stranger. Maybe that was her fault? She’d moved on.

“Earth to Jesse” a voice in the distance teased. She looked up at George and Stephanie both looking expectantly.

“God, sorry I was a million miles away” she blushed.

“You haven’t touched your sandwich even” George pointed out, she had something on her mind but he wouldn’t ask until Stephanie wasn’t around.

“I know, it looks too divine to waste as well” she jumped when her cell phone vibrated in her pocket. Guessing it was going to be Jon asking how his little girl was, she flipped it open to reveal the message.

Jess sorry about before. I just miss you and meant what I said on the card. Friends. See you @5. Jase.

She snapped it shut and slipped it back in her pocket. “No one important, now let’s eat” she said picking up her sandwich and taking a bite. George shook his head something was going on and he’d make sure he got to the bottom of this.

~~

Five – thirteen and she still wasn’t here. Where the hell was she? He brought the half filled beer to his lips and took a long sip. The nervous tension inside him was bubbling away making him more anxious with every minute that passed by.

He’d called her and got her voicemail, he’d sent two text messages and still no reply. He’d just wanted to talk to her give her the benefit of the doubt she’d not turned into a trumped up American tart that thought she was better than everyone else because of HIM. It wasn’t Jesse’s fault, sweet unassuming Jesse had trusted him, that pathetic symbol of all that was good in the world Jon Bon Jovi. She would never see it. So Jason had to make her see it. Once he was gone, it would be one down out of hundreds. And maybe then Jesse would see the real American Heroes rather than the instant ones with all the fame and money in the world. Just maybe.

Five-thirty three he left twenty bucks on the table and stormed out of the bar. She’d never showed or call, nothing. Well fuck them all.