Chapter 28

“So did you like it?” Melody asked.

“Of course I liked it. It was a Bon Jovi concert after all.” Lori answered her.

“Yeah, but being backstage? The guys?”
“Oh you mean that. You can’t believe how nervous I was when we got there.” Lori started but Melody interrupted her.

“You’re always nervous.” She pointed out.

“Right, I am but I didn’t expect them all to be that nice, especially Richie. I knew he was fun but… he’s fun.” Lori said

“He really is fun like that and really nice. He comforted me last week when I told him about how I was screwing everything up.” Melody told her.

“He really is nice but next time I should tell him I’m married.” Lori said, thinking about his flirting.

Melody agreed, Richie had been single for a while now so he was probably looking around while Lori had already been married right after she graduated from college, which was almost 23 years ago now.

The remainder of the car ride they talked about the previous night. About the concert about how they both thought Just Older was a perfect opening song. Lori was convinced too that Jon sang In These Arms to Melody. They talked about being backstage, how fun it had been to meet everyone and Jon’s birthday party even how good the cake was until Lori remembered Melody’s plans for last night. Lori was a shy person but never thought twice before saying anything.

“Oh my God! I completely forgot, did you…?” Lori asked a bit too loud.
“I’m not sure the people in that car that just drove by heard you.” Melody said a bit angry. “Besides, Jimmy can hear us.”

“At least I didn’t say sex.” Lori said.

“Now you did! And I really don’t think Jimmy wants to hear about his boss like this.” Melody said still a bit angry, more annoyed. She’d tell Lori but she didn’t want Jimmy to overhear them.

“I really don’t but I can turn up the radio so I can’t hear you.” Jimmy said as he did.

“Well then, did you have sex?” Lori asked Melody whispering as she leaned over closer to her, making sure Melody would still hear her over the music without yelling.

“Yes, first I took your advice of a blowjob and after that, 3 times.” Melody whispered back happily.

“3 times after a blowjob?! “Lori said surprised, hardly believing it. “Wow, I’d be happy if Shawn cuddles me after that.” Lori said.

“We spread out the last 2 times.” Melody explained to her. Melody remembered the slow passionate sex in the middle of the night and the shower sex. She hadn’t had sex in a shower for years and now remembered how fun it was.

“I hope you remembered to use protection.” Lori said.

“We’re not 17.” Melody said.

“Exactly the reason to use protection.” Lori continued.

“We did, and I use the pill anyway.”

“You know those aren’t effective every time and you don’t know with who he’d done it before.” Lori kept going on.

“I don’t want to discuss the previous sex life of my brand new boyfriend!” Melody said, annoyed again.

“I thought you weren’t 17?” Lori said laughing about how she had called Jon. Melody realized it and started laughing too.

With the hysterical laughter going on in the back seat, they wondered what Jimmy must be thinking about them right now, which made them laugh even harder.

By the time they were done talking and acting like they were in high school again Jimmy asked if he could turn down the radio so he could listen to the GPS system’s instructions to get to Melody’s house.

Jon and Richie sat at one of the tables by the window on the plane. Everyone else was sitting at the other tables; they already ran away from Jon who kept complaining about the Boston show, the sound system failing. He really hated it when something like that happened. It made him think how it would ruin their fans nights if it hadn’t started working again. Jon made sure he would let Tony check the sound systems twice so nothing like in Boston would happen again.

They were left by themselves discussing how the last two concerts had gone and what they should change. Jon wrote down the songs he especially wanted on the list for Saturday.
“Ok, enough about work.” Richie finally said as he was obviously getting bored talking about the shows. “What about Melody?”

“She’s great.” Jon said with a smile, lost for more words.

“Just great?” Richie asked him, looking him in the eyes.

“No man, I love her.” Jon said honestly.

“You love her? You’ve only known her for a month.” Richie said.

“37 days.” Jon pointed out to him. “But yes, I do.”

“Shit man, you’re counting in days? You like her that much you’re counting days, what about hours?” He asked jokingly.

Jon gave him a look.

“Ok then, sorry. What makes her more special than the other girls you were dating?” Richie asked.

“I dunno, just everything.” Jon said, grabbing his travel mug of coffee off the foldable table and taking a drink.

“Then tell me everything.” Richie insisted, urging Jon to tell him, he was his brother after all. He wanted to be happy for him but not if he had fallen in love head over heels to a girl he’d only known for a month.

Jon took a deep breath before he started, knowing it would be a long list to sum up to him. “She’s sweet, caring and beautiful. She listens to me, even when I’m complaining about things she has no idea about instead of changing the subject. When I had that cold a few weeks ago, she cared more about me taking a nap than talking on the phone while we already can’t talk that much when I’m doing shows.” Jon explained and Richie patiently waited to hear the rest. “And last week she was so worried we couldn’t have sex because she had her period and when she wanted to give me a blowjob, I just couldn’t let her, fuck, I really couldn’t do it. Which I would have let all those other girls I dated the last two years do. I wanted more than just that.” Jon paused again, looking outside the window over the clouds.

Richie knew he was still thinking and waited for the rest that would come.

“Then, last night, she had planned for me what I had planned for her and it was just so… amazing and perfect and… you know?” He said as he looked back over to Richie questioning if he understood.

“Yeah, yeah, I know. I’m happy you feel about her that way.” Richie said understanding.

Chapter 29

Chapter 27

“So where are you off to next?” Melody asked him, knowing they’d have to say goodbye soon.

“Connecticut and on Saturday we’re back in New York.”
“You’re back in New York already?” Melody said excited, she hadn’t know he’d be back that soon.
“Yes, you should come Saturday night.” Jon said now excited too.
Melody would love to go to another show; she could never get enough of that, not to mention the private after party with him.
“My kids are home on the weekend.” Melody remembered.
“I thought they were with your ex?”

“No, just for today.” Melody said.

“Take them along then, they’d love it too.” Jon said, if she did he could still see her, which was most important to him now.

Melody wasn’t sure, she hadn’t taken any of them to a concert and they didn’t particularly like watching concert dvd’s with her either.

“I don’t know, I’ll ask them. They agreed to meet you next week, so I don’t know if they want to.” Melody explained.
Jon nodded, he understood. “You ask them and let me know if you’re coming or not.”

Melody agreed.

They finished their breakfast and Jon put the empty cart outside the room. It was almost 12 now and Melody would have to leave around 2 to be home on time. After Melody would leave he would have to fly to Uncasville for the next show.

Jon proposed to take a shower to get cleaned up; Melody liked the idea and followed him to the bathroom. He turned on the hot water, letting it warm up before guiding Melody to the shower and following her. The shower was big enough for both of them to stand under the streaming water. He reached behind her for the complimentary bottle of shampoo, pouring some in his hand and handing it to her before he washed her soft brown hair. Melody did the same to him and they stood there, hands in each others hair, close to each other. Melody kissed his lips softly, her hands massaging the back of his head, as he did to hers. He wanted more and pried her mouth open, rubbing his tongue over hers, reaching his hands lower to her ass, pushing her closer his dick started growing yet again. It almost surprised him, 3 times in 12 hours.

Melody still held his head as they kissed; Jon pushed her to the wall.
“Ugh,” He grunted, “be right back.” He said as he let her go and got out of the shower.
“There’s some in my bag right there.” Melody said as he almost walked out of the bathroom. He went through her bag until he found the box and took one out and stepped back into to shower. He rinsed out Melody’s and his hair out first before kissing her again. Cupping her ass again and pushed her back to the wall.

He lifted her off her legs and lowered her onto his dick. Melody wrapped her legs around his waist tightly pulling him closer. She held her hands around his back, putting her head on his shoulder, feeling the morning scruff on his jaw and chin as he thrusted inside her. It didn’t take him very long to reach his climax but it didn’t for Melody either. She could feel her orgasm coming as he was getting closer too. A few more thrusts and she climaxed, her climax making him climax.

He held her for a while before putting her back on the ground, getting back to their main task. Melody kissed him a last time before letting him go; he got rid of the condom when she did.

“Lather, rinse, repeat.” He said as he stepped back into the shower for the second time, picking up the shampoo bottle from the shower floor.

They finished showering and stepped out of the shower, Jon wrapped a towel around Melody before taking one for him, wrapping it around his waist. Melody dried off and combed her hair as Jon shaved. They headed back to the other room to get dressed.

Jon handed her lingerie set. Melody grabbed a second pair of panties out of her bag before taking the bra from Jon. He watched her as she got dressed and took another look at the lingerie.

“You look better without it but I can’t deny that looks good too.” Jon said honestly. He really did like the set. Melody was glad he did, her thoughts before asking him for a favourite colour was right, men liked red lingerie.

“You don’t look half bad in that towel either.” Melody said, looking at his abs, his chest, the chest hair, just everything.

Jon smiled at her before turning around and getting dressed as she did. He kept it casual with jeans and a t-shirt when he turned around he saw Melody had opted for the same.

After they had got dressed there was a knock on the door and Jon opened it while Melody continued to pack her bag.

“Wanna go out for lunch before we leave?” Richie asked as soon as Jon had opened the door.

Jon was hungry again already and looked over at Melody questioningly.

“Yeah, sure.” She said, they would have to leave soon anyway.

“We’ll meet you downstairs in a few minutes.” Jon told Richie, as he wanted to pack his bag too before leaving. Melody phoned Lori’s room to ask if she was going with him, Lori pointed out what a silly question that was and of course she would want to go with them.

A few minutes later they were all downstairs in the hotel with their bags, waiting for Richie. Jon decided to take everyone’s bags to Jimmy to put in the car already while they waited for him.

When he came back inside Richie was finally there. They all walked outside and Jimmy held the door for them to get in.

“Where to?” Jimmy asked them as he got behind the wheel.

“Chickie and Pete’s.” Jon decided for all of them.

“Crab fries.” Richie said agreeing.

Jimmy started the car and they arrived at the restaurant in less than 10 minutes.

Jon was known at the restaurant and they were guided to a private room. Jon ordered everything he liked on the menu as he always did when he went there. Everything was so good he just couldn’t pick just one thing, so he took it all and had some of everything.

Melody couldn’t believe how much was on the table when they had brought all the food to them. Jon urged her to try one of the crab fries. Melody didn’t really like sea food but tried it anyway, not believing how good it actually tasted. Jon ate a whole bowl of them before taking a slice of pizza and folding it in two and taking a big bite almost too big to fit in his mouth.
“Very flattering.” Richie told him. “Keep your manners; you’re with your girlfriend.”
Melody and Lori both had to laugh when Richie told him so.

After they finished their lunch Jimmy drove them to the airport, dropping off Jon and Richie. Melody got out of the car to kiss Jon goodbye and promised to let him know about Saturday night.

Richie overheard them when he got out of the car too. “If you can’t meet up you got Sunday and Monday.” He pointed out to Jon.

Jon’s face went blank. “I completely forgot. We can go out Sunday night after your kids leave.” He told Melody.

Of course Melody liked the idea and Jon told her he’d arrange dinner at a restaurant in Woodbridge, telling her Richie would know some places.

They kissed again and said goodbye.

Jon and Richie walked to the airport and Melody got back in the car sitting by Lori, Jimmy started the car and they were on their way home.

Chapter 28 

Chapter 26

The candles all around the room had died during the night making the lamp on the night stand, that had been turned on during the search for protection, the only light source there was. The ice cubes that were cooling half a bottle of champagne had melted to water, the glasses standing next to it. In front of the bed was a heap of clothes of the two people in the bed, him still on top of her, sleeping.

Sometime during the night Jon woke up and noticed where his dick still was. Half awake, he slowly started moving his hips, going in and out of her. The condom he was still wearing made the feeling less pleasurable. He knew protection was important but also remembered he already filled this one. He slowly withdrew from her; she woke up as he did. He sat on his knees between her legs tying a knot into the condom, she propped up on her elbows, her legs felt a bit numb of him lying on top of her all night, and she asked what time it was.

He dropped the used condom next to the bed and looked over at the bright red lights on the other night stand. “3.37.” He answered her question.

Melody lay down again, stretching her arms above her. “You better make it worthwhile, waking me up this early.”

Jon reached over to the box of condoms, took one out and tore it open before rolling it over his stiff cock.

He sat between Melody’s legs again, moving over her so he could kiss her neck. She leaned her head back, enjoying the moment as he slowly slid inside her. This time he was slower, softer, more passionate, enjoying the moment himself, enjoying Melody. He tried to keep a steady slow pace; he wanted it to be lovingly. All the while he kept kissing Melody’s neck, down to her shoulder and back up again, sometimes more licking than kissing.

He moved slowly, pulling away from kissing Melody he supported himself on his elbows, still close to her, he could feel his climax approaching. He kept his slow pace, making sure he wouldn’t climax yet.

Melody enjoyed the softness and closeness, his chest hair on her breasts but soon she could feel her climax approaching too. She closed her eyes so she could enjoy the feeling even more and Jon stopped.

“Open your eyes, I want to see you.” He said softly, Melody did as he asked and he softly started thrusting again. Jon softly kissed her lips during the last few strokes before looking into her eyes as he reached his climax and she followed him with hers only a few seconds later.

He pulled out of her and took the condom off, dropping it next to the bed before lying down next to her.
“Was that worthwhile?” Jon asked her.

“It was.” Melody said, eyes closed again, trying to keep the feeling. “Very.”

“Good, now come here.” He said as he turned her over to her side, pulling her closer to him.

“Jon…” Melody hesitated; she still wasn’t sure him declaring his love was a spur of the moment thing or if he really had meant it.

“What, babe?” He asked concerned, pulling her even closer in his arms she rested her head on his chest.

“I love you.” She whispered against his chest.

She knew she did, she always had even though it was platonic love then. He was caring towards her, something she hadn’t felt in years when she was in a relationship. They had talked more than she ever had when she was dating someone. She loved seeing the random texts on her phone when she got off work, it showed he cared and thought of her during the day. Him being patient, proved it even more, if he was just looking for sex he would have left last week. The faster Melody’s mind raced, she started thinking he had meant it.
“I love you too.” He said softly, kissing the top of her head.

Melody relaxed in his arms and believed him. She cuddled up to him, putting her leg over his and her arm around him and closed her eyes again, falling asleep. He held her like that and fell asleep too.

The next morning Jon woke rather early to the call of nature. He slowly let go of Melody, getting out of bed carefully so he wouldn’t wake her up. He picked up the used condoms from the floor and walked to the bathroom where he dropped them in the garbage can before using the toilet. He washed his hands and quietly went back to bed; but the bed creaked loudly as he went to lie down.
“Are you up already?” Melody asked him, eyes still closed, half asleep.

“No, let’s try again around 10, maybe then it’s time to wake up.” He said as he pulled her closer in his arms again.

A few hours later a knock at the door woke them up again.
“Room service.” They heard from behind the door.
Melody pulled up the covers as Jon got out of bed grabbing a pair of running shorts from his bag to put on, the pair of pants from last night was closer but would be more difficult to get into, and opened the door.
“Your coffee, sir.”
“Thanks.” He said as he took the pot of coffee and a mug off the cart and setting them down on the desk.
“You have a coffee maker right there.” Melody said pointing to the counter top.
“I just order it so it’s there as soon as I wake up and I don’t have to wait for it.” Jon explained to her.
“It takes 5 minutes.” Melody said flatly.

“They make it better?” Jon said.
Melody didn’t say anything.
“I knew I was going to be tired in the morning?” He still tried.
Melody almost went for his excuse, but still didn’t take it.
“Ok, I’m lazy.” He finally said.
“We put coffee makers in rooms so we don’t have to run up to every room to deliver coffee.” Melody explained to him.
“Then I shouldn’t order breakfast in bed ‘cause you can get that downstairs too?” He asked.

“That, you can still do.” Melody said with a smile as she sat up.

He sat down on the bed on her side and phoned room service for breakfast. Melody moved closer to him and sat behind him on her knees, her hands on his shoulders, gently rubbing them. He dropped his shoulders and let her continue. She reached lower to his back, massaging his back, moving on to his lower back.
“That feels so good.” Jon let out as Melody applied more pressure to his back. Melody continued applying more pressure around his back and softer towards his spine. She took her time massaging him, remembering an interview he had done in November saying his knees and lower back hurt all the time.

Breakfast still hadn’t arrived and Melody moved closer to him, putting her arms around him tightly. Pressing her breasts against his back.
“That feels good too.” He said as Melody reached down into his shorts.

She stopped when they heard a knock on the door. Melody pulled the blankets up again and Jon got the door. He put the cart with their food next to the bed and sat down next to Melody again.
“You don’t like coffee do you?” He asked, remembering she hadn’t wanted coffee last week during breakfast.
“Not at all.” Melody said.
“Milk or juice?” He asked, holding up both jars.
Melody decided for orange juice and Jon poured her a glass and handed it to her.

Chapter 27 

Chapter 25

It seemed like she had been waiting for an eternity when Jon finally came to the door. Melody heard someone’s card slide trough the lock and stood back up; she had sat down while she was waiting. She had all the candles on and the room looked perfect. She had tried not to move any of the soft silk rose petals that were on the bed. She was standing by the bed, just like she had planned to when he opened the door.

Jon walked in but just like Melody he stopped in his footsteps.
“Melody.” He said, not knowing what to say next.

“Jon.” She answered.

“I was going to do this for you.” He said, “I thought you were in your room. You took too long in the bathroom so I thought you had gone to change or something.” He explained.
“No, Richie gave me a key to your room so I could do this for your birthday.”

Jon remembered the door behind him and closed it, stepping closer to Melody. He took her face in his hands and leaned down to give her a soft kiss. “Thanks.” He said.

“I’m sorry; I ruined your surprise though.” Melody answered.

‘This is better.” He said softly as he kissed her lips again.

He tugged at the belt of her robe until it fell open and looked at what she had been hiding.
“That’s something red.” He said with a smile.
“Happy birthday.”

He kissed her again, moving to her neck and shoulders and pushing off the robe, letting it fall to the ground behind her.

“You’re beautiful.” He said as he cupped her breasts through her bra. Melody smiled an answer and helped him take off his shirt and let it join with her robe. He reached behind her back with his other hand and unhooked the bra.
“As nice as it is, it has to go.” He said, just like the robe he let it fall to the ground. He cupped her breast again and kissed her neck as Melody reached to unbutton his pants. Jon let her go for a second and kicked off his shoes and took his pants and socks off.

He led Melody backwards back to the bed and laid her down on the edge. He picked up where they had let off last week and kissed a trail from her neck down to her breast. Taking her nipple in his mouth, Melody moaned of enjoyment. Jon kissed further down her belly until he reached her pants and Melody lifted her hips so he could take them off. He threw them over his shoulder to be joined with the other pieces of clothing.

Melody moaned again when he slid a finger inside soon joined by another. He bent down and she felt his warm breath on her. He licked softly as to savour the taste and Melody shuddered as he ran his tongue over her button. She put her hands in his hair and pulled him up.
“It’s your birthday.” She said looking into his eyes.

She sat back up, and reached for his dick. She ran her hand up and down his cock. Melody felt him twitch and took him in her mouth. She kissed the top and circled her tongue around it before taking him in again. This time he put his hands in her hair as she did. She ran her hands over his thighs, round to his ass. Grounding deeper he grunted with his release. He let go of her hair and pulled her up to kiss.

After the kiss Melody got the champagne bottle from the desk and handed it to Jon who opened it with a pop. Melody held out the glasses and he filled them up. She handed him a glass and made a toast.

“To a very nice birthday.” She said.

“Which it definitely will be, with a girl like you.” Jon said and they both drunk from their glasses.

“Oh quit it, it’s your birthday, this should be about you.” Melody reminded him.

“But I had it intended to be about you.” Jon said.

They finished their drinks and put them back on the desk.
“That enough for a break?” Jon asked as he guided Melody back to the bed, pulling the covers back and laying her down again. Melody sunk back in the pillows and Jon lay next to her on his side propped up on his elbow. He moved over her and kissed her again.

He kissed her breast as he slid two fingers inside her again. He moved his thumb on her clit and gently rubbed it. He felt Melody was getting closer to her orgasm and slowed down the rhythm. Melody moaned, urging him on to go faster again. Jon let go of her breast and moved down to lick her clit. He held her hips when he felt her shudder with her own release. He looked up and licked his lips and sat up. He tapped his stiffened cock against her legs; Melody opened her legs in response.

Melody remembered her bag was still in the bathroom but Jon was already reaching for his bag on the chair next to the bed. He took out a box of condoms and placed in on the night standing, handing a pack to Melody.

She opened it and slid it over his cock. Jon moved between her legs and slowly moved inside her. He placed his hand next to her shoulders for support. Bending his head to kiss her and nuzzled her neck. Melody ran her hands up over his chest feeling the thinning grey hair. He quickened the tempo when he felt her shudder again. Melody felt her release coming but wanted Jon there with her. She was getting there fast and spanked his ass, Jon let out a grunt and they reached their point of release together.

Jon reached down again to kiss her neck, not really able to move and lay on top of her. Chest to chest, still arousing each other. His chest hair tickled her nipples, she reached her arms around him, tying them on his back as to hug him. She felt his heart beat slowing down again and so did hers.

“I love you.” He whispered in her hair.
Melody’s mind raced, she wondered if he really had said that. She was sure he had said it and realized she felt the same way about it.
“I love you too.” She answered.

He kissed the side of her face, as she did to his.
“I’ll get off you in a second. I’m just a bit tired.” Jon explained.

“That’s ok; you’re getting old after all.” Melody joked and Jon grunted as an answer. “Enough joking?” She asked him, she felt him nod. “It’s ok, I’m tired too.” Melody said comforting as she shut her eyes.



Chapter 26

(Sorry it took so long but 25 is my favourite number as Thank You For Loving Me was released on 25 November (today :D) so I just had to, and for you who don't know, I'm weird like that, but like I said, sorry.)

Chapter 24

Melody hurried around the stage the find her seat. She moved along through the crowd until she found Lori. Jon was still playing Just Older and Melody loved it when he changed a few words. Only a real fan would have noticed it.

Melody loved his improved speech during The More Things Change and agreed he still looked damn good like he said. He could still shake his ass like the best and making everyone scream during We Got It Goin’ On. After another song Jon left the stage and Melody almost thought to make a quick run back but didn’t want to leave Lori alone and listened to Richie singing Lay Your Hands on Me.

This time Melody knew Jon would show up in the middle of the crowed and saw him get on the small stage there. He played What Do You Got and Diamond Ring before Tico and David joined him and Richie.

Again they played two songs and went back to the main stage. After another 5 songs they said good night to the crowd and left before coming back for an encore which he started with In These Arms, again he kept looking over at Melody when he sang it.

They finished the show with Blood on Blood and Melody told Lori she was leaving early. Lori nodded and would wait until it was over.

Melody walked through the crowd again, around the stage into backstage. Someone stopped her near the stage but Melody pointed out her access all areas card and was good to go. Melody saw everyone get off the stage before Jon. She noticed his wardrobe lady standing by with a clean shirt for him but Melody knew she would be faster.

As soon as Jon got off the stairs she pushed him into his quick change room kissing him. Jon turned around and pushed her up against the wall kissing her neck and running his hand over her thighs.
“I meant even later.” He said with a break for breath.

“Couldn’t wait.” Melody said as she kissed him again and pulled his jacket off. She didn’t stop there and pulled his t-shirt off too.

Jon moved closer to her and Melody could feel his dick growing in his pants. She reached down to grab him through his pants.

Jon let out a grunt when she did. “I still have a party to go.”

Melody laughed, right, they did, she should wait till later when they really were alone. Jon grabbed a clean shirt and walked out with Melody. They got to the car where Jimmy was waiting for them.
“Where did Lori go?” Melody asked worried, completely forgotten her.

“She went along with Richie.” Jimmy explained. “They’ll meet you at the hotel.”

Melody nodded and got in the car with Jon.

A few minutes later Jimmy opened the door for them and they got out. Jimmy reminded Melody of her bag and offered to bring it to Jon’s room, which he did. Melody and Jon went to a conference room that was set up to held a party. Just like promised the big cake was over at the buffet table.

When Jon arrived everyone started singing again and he cut the cake, handing Melody the first piece. Then took a piece for himself and told the rest to get their own. They sat down at a table and soon they were joined by the rest. Richie sat down next to Jon and Lori next to him. Dave started making jokes about Jon getting older until Jon pointed out Dave was 3 weeks older than him. Tico added Jon didn’t have enough wisdom yet to be old, unlike him. It was all good fun as they kept joking around with each other.

Richie offered to get more wine and Melody offered to help him.

“I can carry a bottle of wine by myself, Melody.” Richie told her.

“You should get more than one then.” Melody insisted, she needed to talk to him without Jon hearing. Richie gave in and accepted her help. After they had left Jon wondered why she insisted on helping him getting a bottle of wine.

“I told you before I needed to talk to you.” Melody said when they arrived at the bar.

“Oh, sorry, didn’t get the hint.” Richie apologized.
Melody quickly forgave him and asked him for the key card for Jon’s room. She was glad she had talked to Richie last week and had asked him when they were alone for 2 seconds. She explained to him she’d be leaving in 30 minutes and shouldn’t allow Jon to follow her for another 15 or 20 minutes. Richie understood and they walked back to the table.

Jon took the bottle from Richie and refilled everyone’s glasses. They talked about the show and how it had gone. They all seemed pleased with and Melody and Lori put in their opinions about the show. They both thought it was one of the best shows they had been to.

After 30 minutes Melody told the group she had to go to the bathroom but left the room instead. She had told Lori of her plan before they had left and she hadn’t minded to stay at the party by herself.

Melody looked for the room number on the key card and went to the 5^th floor; Jon’s room was at the end of the hallway. She opened the door and stopped in her footsteps. It was just a normal room, not even with a separate bedroom. She had stopped when she noticed all the tea light candles already standing on the dresser, the desk, the night stands, the small counter top above a fridge and even on top of the TV. She looked over to the bed and noticed rose petals all over the bed. She remembered how Jon had always said in interviews that he was romantic; she thought it was just a nice thing to say, until now.

Her bag was standing by the door; she took it and walked to the bathroom and dropped it remembering she had to phone room service for champagne. She took the phone from the desk and phoned.

“Can you send up a cold bottle of champagne with two glasses up?” She asked when they answered her.
“There was one ordered for this room for in 30 minutes, do you wish it now instead then?”

“Yes, thank you.” Melody said and hung up.

She went back to the bathroom, undressed and put on her new set of lingerie. She adjusted the straps until it felt good. She looked around in her bag for her toiletries and brushed her hair, brushed her teeth again and put new make-up on. When she finished she heard a knock at the door. Standing there in her lingerie she looked around for a robe, she found one on hooks by the shower. She put it on and went to open the door.

The champagne came in and ice bucket with two glasses, Melody took it and put it on the desk. She wanted to put on the candles but remembered she hadn’t brought any matches. She started looking around in the night stand. If Jon had planned the same thing he would have some somewhere. She found a lighter on the other night stand and went to put on all the candles. They lighted the room just enough to have a nice glow when Melody tried it out if it would. She decided to leave the lights off. It was almost time for Jon to get to the room and she waited patiently standing by the bed.

Chapter 25

Chapter 23

Jimmy handed them their backstage passes when they arrived at the back door. He opened the door for them and led them to Jon’s dressing room that had balloons in front of the door for the occasion, even a superman balloon.

Jon opened the door for them and gave Melody a short kiss before she introduced Lori to him. It was busy in Jon’s dressing room as the rest of the band and even crew members were there. After meeting Lori he introduced her to the rest in the room. Lori couldn’t be more excited when he did. Everyone said hello to her and Lori was fidgeting her feet when everybody said hello to her. She had never been that close to the band and it was like a dream come true. Melody pushed her to a chair and told her to relax.

After the crew members had left Lori relaxed a bit and they were alone with the band. Melody had moved over to sit next to Jon on the couch, Lori hadn’t moved from her chair which was still an arm’s length from where everyone sat in the sitting area.

Richie leaned over from where he was sitting on the couch and pulled her chair closer by one of its legs. Lori almost lost balance but grabbed on to the seat in time. Lori wasn’t sure if she should say something. She usually wasn’t that shy around new people, but now…
“Come join us.” Richie said.

“You almost made me fall.” She told him.

“At least now you’re closer.”

“But you almost hurt me.” Lori persisted.

“But I didn’t and besides, if I had, I would have kissed it better.” Richie said with a smile.

“I’m sure you would, gentleman.” Lori answered him sarcastically.

“What? I would.” Richie said seriously now.

Lori had to laugh at his reaction and so did the rest. Lori finally relaxed because of him and felt better. They all sat there talking. Jon held Melody in his arms as Melody explained about her and Lori’s job at the hotel. Everyone knew the hotel as it was just a few houses from Jon’s penthouse.

Holding Melody in his arms, he decided he had to do some changes on the set list they had set up earlier. He urged the rest of the band to start sound check and asked Melody and Lori to go along with them.

Melody and Lori sat in their front row seats to see them do their sound check. Until Lori wondered how far back it was possible to still see them. They got up from their seats and started walking back, stopping every few rows to look at the stage. Jon wondered what they were doing and used his mike to ask them.
“Is it that bad?” He asked them.

They weren’t too far away yet. “Horrible!” Melody said jokingly.

“What are you doing?”
Melody and Lori walked further back and got into the golden circle. “We’re going to see if you look sexy all the way in the back!” Melody shouted at him as they turned around again to go another few rows back. David had heard them and started laughing.
“He probably just looks better back there.” He told them. Richie asked Jon what Melody and Lori had said but Jon laughed it off and started singing again.

When he finished his song Melody and Lori were all the way in the back. They sat down and didn’t come back.
“So?” Jon asked them.
Melody shouted even harder but Jon still had to listen closely to be able to hear her. “Can’t see you.” He thought she had said. The stage screens weren’t on but he thought it couldn’t hurt to test them too. He asked to turn them on and smiled to the camera in front of him.
“How about now?” He asked.
Melody raised her arm and Jon guessed it was a thumbs up. “Better.” He thought he heard this time.

Melody and Lori sat in the back, taking a break from their walk while listening to another song. When Jon finished it and got his guitar they started walking back to their seats. They had been able to see his contours when they were in the back but nothing clear enough.

Jon ended sound check an hour after they had started and invited Lori and Melody back in his dressing room. This time the rest of the band had left and it was just the three of them.

“So what do you do for another 3 hours?” Lori asked Jon as she sat back down on her chair.
“Not much, have some supper, hang around, change the set list, which reminds me.” Jon said as he got up and took his set list. He made some adjustments on his paper and left the room.

“I guess he had to make some changed.” Lori concluded.
“Guess so. Are you liking it being backstage?” Melody asked her.

“It’s awesome, I was really nervous but you were right, they’re really nice.” Lori said excited.

Melody was glad Lori had relaxed. They heard a knock on the door and Richie walked in.

“Where’s Jon?” He asked after looking around the room.
Melody shrugged. “He left with the set list.

Richie sighed. “Did he change something again?”

“I think he did.” Melody said, telling him Jon said something about changing the set list and had left.
Richie decided to wait for Jon with them and sat back on the couch where he sat before.

“You know a couch is more comfy?” He asked Lori seriously.

“Yes, I do.” She answered.
“At least you know. So where are you guys from. You live in New York then?” He asked wondering, he knew they worked in New York, so figured they’d live close by.

“No,” Melody said. “Woodbridge.”

“Really? Where?”

Melody told him the street they lived on and Richie nodded in acknowledgement.

“That’s by River Park isn’t it?” He asked, this time Melody nodded.

“That’s close to where I went to high school.” Richie said excited.

“My kids go there.” Melody said.

“Really?”

“Yeah, J and Tyler saw you at Richie Sambora day.”
“That was a really good day.” Richie reminisced.

“That was a really great thing you did.”
“You gotta give back to the community when you can.” Richie concluded, Melody and Lori agreed and Richie told them more about the ‘You Can Go Home’ charity he had been working on when Jon walked back into the room.

“There you are. That’s the second time I was looking for one of you and find you together.” Jon said looking at them.

“We’re talking, Jon.” Richie said seriously.

“I was kidding. Here,” Jon said and handed Richie a changed set list. “Learn it.”

Richie looked over it and looked up again. “That took you almost 2 hours?”

“No, I walked past the chiropractor and went then instead of after supper.” Jon explained.

The four of them had supper in Jon’s dressing room. Lori still hadn’t said much to Jon. She felt relaxed around the rest now but just like Melody, Jon had been the love of her life and she didn’t keep her cool as good as Melody. Lori always got nervous for everything.

Jon and Richie got ready for the show when Dave knocked on the door telling Jon he had to get his ass out there. Jon got up and walked to the door. Dave took him to a room telling Jon he had something for him. Jon opened the door to the room and everyone inside started singing happy birthday for him. Jon couldn’t resist laughing while they did but thanked them all when he saw the cake. It was a big cake shaped like a guitar leaning against a stage box. They all posed for some press pictures and the crew promised to bring the cake to the hotel where they were having a party after the show.

Lori kept urging Melody to go to their seats so they could see the band come on stage but Melody knew she’d have a short minute of privacy when the band went on and Jon would go a few minutes later. She sent Lori off and said she’d find her seat without the help of a crew member. After Lori had left, Tico went on first, and then David and Richie followed after him. They all had left and Melody grabbed Jon around his neck, pulling him down to kiss him passionately. She moved her hands to ass and held him there. He chuckled and broke their kiss.

“I gotta go.” He said, Melody nodded, “but save that for later.” And she watched him walk the stairs to the stage and heard the opening to Just Older.

Chapter 22

 

 

The next morning Melody had off and had even less to worry about. After the kids were gone she went back to bed, nothing like too much sleep and she still had 6 hours before a driver picked her up.

She was just about to fall asleep when her phone on her night stand started singing. She reached over to grab it, missing it the first few times before she answered the call.
“Hello?” She asked sleepily.

“Did I wake you?” Jon asked her.

“Yes you did.” Melody answered grumpy.

“Come on, you should be up and at ‘em.” He teased her.

“It’s 8.15, too early for funniness.”
“Ok, morning mood. Should I let you go back to sleep then?” He asked with a sweet voice.

“No, its fine, I’ll get up.” Melody said as she sat up in bed, resting back against the pillows and waking up decently. “Happy birthday.”

“Thanks Mel, you’re the first one to wish me that.” Jon said happily.

“Great, I love being first. I can’t wait to see you later.”

“I can’t wait either, but you’ll be here soon.” He explained.

“So, how was last night’s concert?” Melody asked.

Jon sighed and started explaining how the sound system gave out. He told her how he was just singing when David motioned the sound was gone. At first he tried to stay calm and sat at the end of the stage waiting for it to come back until he got frustrated and he and the band left the stage. He had started yelling at the technician that promised earlier that everything would be fixed. After he was done yelling the technician promised again that it would work. They all went back to the stage and everything had been fine. He told Melody he apologized to the man after the show but explained to him that it was important that everything was perfect for the fans.

After Jon had let out all his frustrations of the previous day he said goodbye to Melody telling her he had to get on the plane. He told her again he couldn’t wait to see her and hung up. He turned his phone off, grabbed his bag and got on the plane. Jon sat down at the table by the window and a few minutes later everyone else was on board too. Richie sat down across of him and David next to him.

“Happy birthday, old man.” Richie said happily.

Jon kicked him under the table. “Fuck off, you’re older.”

“Just older.” Richie pointed out for him.

“We should open with that tonight.” He looked around the cabin for someone that had a piece of paper. “Let’s start that set list.”

Melody finally got out of bed and went to shower. She washed her hair with shampoo that should make it silky and shiny. She hoped it would work. Putting special attention to shaving her legs too, making sure they were soft as silk.

She turned off the water, stepped out of the shower and dried off. She walked over to the mirror and looked at her reflection for a minute. Hoping that shampoo had worked, she took out the hairdryer and a brush. She brushed out her long brown hair, when wet it reached under her shoulder blades on her back.

She started drying it and while handling it she noticed it did have a soft feel. When it was all dry it actually looked lighter brown than it usually did. She brushed it out again and now her hair reached over her shoulders. Melody decided to wait for brushing her teeth and putting make-up on until she had to leave.

When she walked into the kitchen she couldn’t believe it was almost 10. She quickly texted Lori to tell her she had to be at her house before 2. Melody made a bowl of cereal for breakfast and went on Facebook to update her status to how excited she was for the concert. She ate her cereal while looking around and checked her emails.

Around 1pm, Melody started getting ready. She shut down the computer and went back to her bathroom. She had picked out one of her favourite jeans and a red top. Usually she would wear a Bon Jovi t-shirt to a concert but she hadn’t in New York either so decided for a plain shirt.

After getting dressed she brushed her teeth twice, just to be sure they were clean and she had a nice breath. She put on the mascara, gracefully poking herself in the eye first before getting it right. After she had put on the lipstick she got everything together and put it in her bag that was still standing by her closet.

Jon got off the plane only 2 hours late. They had completed the set list and he had given it along with a crew member to type it out and make copies for everyone. They were at the venue by noon and had lunch backstage. He got birthday wishes from all around. He made small talk with everyone that came up to him and finally had made his way through to get his lunch. By the time he was in his dressing room he was happy with a few minutes of quiet and nobody reminding him he was turning 49 until he thought it and made him remember again.

30 minutes before the car would arrive for Melody and Lori, Lori knocked on the door. They were both excited to go to the concert and hoped the car would be early. It was 10 minutes early, which was good enough. Just like last time it wasn’t a limo or another fancy car bug just a big black car.

The driver knocked on the door and introduced himself as Jimmy, their driver for the day. He took their bags before they could ask him to, he walked back to the car and opened the door for them before dropping the bags in the trunk.

Jimmy got in the car and asked if they wanted to radio on or not. Melody asked him for Bon Jovi music and Jimmy reached for the glove compartment to take out the ultimate collection. He started the first cd and backed out of the drive way, through the town and onto the highway.

Jon was still in his dressing room when his phone rang. It was Dorothea to wish him a happy birthday and then let all the kids have a little chat with him. He each one of them he’d be home the next week and they could stay over the weekend like they always did when he was home. The two teenagers didn’t think too much of it, being more used to their dad being gone, not that they weren’t happy to see him but it was probably uncool to say it out loud. He got the reaction he wanted when he told Jake and Romeo. When he ended the call his phone beeped again as it received a message from Melody saying they were almost there.

Jimmy drove to Philly without stopping and they made some nice time during the drive. They had estimated to be there around 4, counting the possible traffic but were lucky to be 30 minutes earlier than they had hoped. They hoped the band would let them watch the sound check now that they were in time for it.

Melody texted Jon to tell him they would be there soon, they were going to the hotel to drop their bags off first. Melody and Lori hadn’t picked out the cheapest hotel, making sure they would have some nice amenities. Jimmy opened the door for them and got their bags from the trunk. Melody and Lori went to check in and dropped their bags in their room.

“I should keep my bag.” Melody said. “I’m going to Jon’s hotel after the concert anyway.”

Lori agreed it was probably easier to do.

They got back to the car where Jimmy was waiting for them.

“You’re keeping your bag?” He asked Melody confused.
“Yes,” Melody paused; she couldn’t exactly say she was spending the night in Jon’s room. She didn’t finish her sentence and got in the car.
“You know you’re in the same hotel as the band?” Jimmy asked looking back at them in the rear-view mirror.

Chapter 23

Chapter 21

 

 

Monday morning was as usual a hectic morning. She made everyone lunches and breakfast. Finding clothes and disappeared school supplies. She was happy there wasn’t a last minute science project.

After dropping everybody off at school, she headed for work. During the drive she wondered if she should phone Jon but thought he wouldn’t be up yet, it being just after 8.30. She decided to phone him when she got home again, when they both would have time to talk. Her mental note of a birthday cake popped back in head.

At work she told Lori about her and Jon agreeing to meet each other’s kids. Lori thought it was too early to do that. They’ve only known each other for a month and half of it he was away. Melody agreed that it might be early but she thought it was better if they know now. She wanted her kids to know about it. Lori agreed but still found it early, a month was nothing, she thought. Melody explained to Lori Jon wanted to go on a trip when he was on a break and he wanted to take her along, she couldn’t leave the kids at home and go on a trip herself. Lori agreed and then understood why they all had to meet.

During lunch Melody told Lori about their trip to Philly. She was happy to go to Jon’s birthday party and couldn’t wait to meet everyone. It sounded really great to her, she couldn’t wait to. The idea of being picked up with a driver and driven all the way there, made Lori think it was even more amazing.

After work Melody drove to a close by bakery. She got a chocolate and vanilla cake that already said happy birthday. Next to all the cakes she noticed cookies. They had a few different kinds and they looked really tasty. Melody decided to get two of each for Jon; he had mentioned he wanted cookies, so Melody thought it wouldn’t hurt to get him some. The man behind the counter packed up the cookies and the cake and handed the boxes to Melody after she had paid.

Melody was almost home when her phone rang. She turned on the hands free system and answered the phone.
“Hey.” She said, not knowing yet it would be Jon, but who else would it be?

“Hey babe,” He paused, “you sound like you’re driving, aren't you home yet?” He wondered

“No, I’m not. I told you I’m having a birthday tomorrow, so I got a cake and I got him a Patriots shirt, which he really wanted.” She explained to him.

“The Patriots, he likes them?” Jon asked surprised.

“Yes, that his favourite team, why?” Melody asked curious.

“It’s just good to know.” Jon said.

“Sure, I’m home now, give me a second to get inside.” Melody said as she unhooked her phone and got her bags. She went inside, dropped her bag by the door where she took her shoes off and went to put the cake and cookies in the fridge. She was still wondering what Jon was up to but didn’t ask him again.

“I’m back.” She said and asked him how his day had gone.

Jon told her he had slept in like he planned on and that his bed was heavenly. He felt entirely renewed. Later, in the afternoon they had flown to Boston. The flight wasn’t very long but Jon tried out the bed as the first thing he did. It wasn’t as good as the one in Washington.

After talking to Melody he went out to the town to buy some things. He looked around for things for the kids but didn’t really find anything special. He passed on buying something and decided to look around in the next town he would get to. He went into a big bookstore and looked around for a new book. He hadn’t brought any with him when he had left on Saturday and needed something to do on the plane and so he had something to read.

Tuesday morning was a bit more relaxed for Melody because she didn’t have to hurry up herself. Although she didn’t have time to drop anyone off at school, Daniel would be picking her up at 8. The kids walked to the bus stop and a few minutes after 8 Daniel honked his car. Melody got her things together and got in the car.

Daniel unlocked the door and let Melody into the store. They went to the workers lounge and Melody got her store vest. Daniel explained what had to be done and Melody got started. She filled up racks with cd’s and updated the top 10 albums at the front of store displaying them. After that she sorted out the cd’s that were in a wrong place, all the while helping customers with their questions and showing them to the cd’s or concert dvd’s they were looking for. She noticed the morning had flown by. At noon, when it was less busy she went into Daniels office.
“So, I’m gonna be going.” Melody started and explained everything she did ad Daniel nodded.

“Great, thanks.” Daniel said as he got up to go work in the store himself.

“You’re still coming over tonight?” She asked him.

“Yes, I’ll bring the family, we’ll be there tonight.”
Melody nodded and left.

She walked to the bus stop at the bench she had waited for the first time she went on a date with Jon. Melody couldn’t help be reminisce the evening they had, she couldn’t really believe it was only a month ago.

The bus arrived after a short time; Melody paid her ticket and got a seat by the window. It wasn’t busy on the bus at all when she got on. The bus ride was only 15 minutes and much easier to walk, walking would be too far.

She got off at the stop a few streets before her house and walked the rest home. As always she kicked off her shoes and dropped her bag on the table by the door. It was only about 1 and the kids wouldn’t be home for another 2 hours. She started on the house work so it would be decent when Daniel came over later.

When she was finally finished, she packed her bag for the next day, retrieving everything from the closet and putting it in the bag with the rest of her stuff. After she got everything ready she phoned Jon, she wouldn’t have time to phone him before the concert so now would be good. As usual he answered the phone first. Melody explained why she was phoning early and of course Jon didn’t mind at all. He told her how much he had been looking forward to tomorrow and especially tomorrow evening. Melody couldn’t wait to see him either. The concert itself would be great, but the after party would be amazing too. She decided not to let on any of her plans. After talking to him for a while they both had to go. The high school bus would arrive in a few minutes and Jon had to go to sound check.

Jon said goodbye to Melody and told her to wish J a happy birthday from him already. Jon got his stuff together and told everyone to go for sound check. Half an hour later everyone was on the stage and just like the last time, the sound system was wrong again. This time Jon didn’t blame anyone in the band for playing bad but went to the technicians instead. They would fix it right now and it would work in 5 minutes. Jon didn’t want to delay too long and started again after the 5 minutes the technician had said but again it didn’t work. He went back to him and this time he didn’t accept any excuse. The technician tried again and Jon stormed out back on to stage, getting frustrated.

Finally it would work and Jon was pleased with it, he ended sound check and hoped it would still work during the concert too.

After supper Melody’s brother arrived with his wife and their daughter. Melody put on some candles on the cake, J rolled his eyes as he thought it was childish, and he was turning 18 after all. After the cake Melody got out the presents she had gotten him and J was very happy to finally have the shirt he’d been wanting for a few weeks and the video game he’d been asking for since Christmas.

Of course the kids didn’t hang around, they all went downstairs and they didn’t hear them anymore until Daniel decided it was time to go after catching up on everything with Melody. Daniel and his wife got ready and called their daughter. They wished everyone a good night and they went home.

Chapter 22

Chapter 20

Sorry for everyone that already read it before, I had to change it, it wasn't right at all

After talking to Melody Jon didn’t feel like hanging around backstage and told everyone he was going back to the hotel. He promised he would be back 20 minutes before the show started and left.

As every Sunday evening during supper Melody let her kids do their stories before she did. She listened to who good graded on tests at school that weeks, which teams won what games and the jokes they pulled on each other.

When they were all finished, Melody decided to tell them how her week went. After telling them about the concerts she went to it was time to ask them to meet Jon.

“So, now Jon and I think it would be a good idea if you guys would meet him. What do you think?” She asked them and waited for answers.

“Great.” Faith answered, she had liked Jon since she got to talk to him on the phone.
“Already met him.” Tyler said plainly.

The others agreed with Faith too and Melody explained Jon would be coming over 15^th March, in 2 weeks.

At first they complained about it, it being a Tuesday, they thought a Friday evening was nicer. Melody explained to them it didn’t work any other way and they would have plenty of time to talk to him after school. She pointed out it would a normal Tuesday as in homework, sports and bed times. It didn’t make them less excited, as usual Faith kept asking things about him and what she could ask him. She couldn’t wait. The boys didn’t show it as much but what did you want with teenagers, Melody knew they were happy to meet him too.

The children agreed it would be nice and Melody explained to them she would be meeting Jon’s kids then too. She decided to not bring up Jon’s idea about a trip just yet.

“On the other hand, you all know you have to go to your dads on Wednesday after school. So J, when do you want to do your birthday, Tuesday or Thursday night?” She asked her oldest that would be turning 18 on Wednesday.

“Tuesday.” He answered her.

“Great we’ll do it then and on Wednesday you can do it over with dad.” Melody explained, she made a mental note to buy a cake and she might have to find some extra gifts.

After supper Melody put all the dishes in the dishwasher and all the kids disappeared. They usually choose to sit downstairs in the den than to watch TV with their mum. Melody didn’t mind as she was used to it and the downstairs den was really meant to be their space.

When Jon got back to his hotel room, it was already 6.50; he would have to leave in 40 minutes. But he was glad to have some time on his own. He plumped down on the bed, it was very soft and he couldn’t wait to get in it later that night. He laid on his back staring at the ceiling enjoying the softness of the bed.

Around 7, he still had 30 minutes before he had to leave; he reached for his pocket and decided to give Melody another call. He had talk to her not even hour ago but now being all alone in his hotel room staring at his ceiling he wasn’t sure anymore why he left. He could have been on his own in his dressing room. Then at least there were still people walking around he could talk to if he wanted to.

“Hey babe.” He said as Melody picked up to phone.

“Hey, you’re phoning back early, everything ok?” Melody asked getting a little bit worried.
“Yeah, everything is fine. I just have some time before the show, so I thought I’d phone you. Did you talk to your kids?”
“Yes, they’re all very excited to meet you.”
“Yeah sure, until they meet me.” Jon laughed.

Melody told Jon the kids really were excited to meet him, especially Faith. He was glad they were and told Melody he hoped his kids would react that way too. She told him about the birthday party she would have on Tuesday and Jon was surprised they had the same birthday. Melody explained to him there were only so many days in a year so people were bound to have same day birthdays. Jon had to laugh at her comment. When Jon yawned, Melody couldn’t help herself and had to say something.
“Rock star tired at 7.30?” She asked him jokingly.
“Rock star isn’t turning 29 in a few days, but rock star has to do a show first, after that he’s off to rock star dreamland.” He answered joking back.
“Just older babe, you know it.” Melody said. “You should open with that on Wednesday”
Jon agreed it was a good idea and would put in on the set list for Wednesday. Melody told him to sleep in the next day and make the plane leave later with his rock star powers. She thought he would be able to. Jon had to laugh at her joke; he had to check out of his room by 11, so he had some time to sleep in.

After he hung up he went to bathroom, and took a quick shower. He blow dried his hair, combing it out with his hands, checking himself in the mirror and thought he was good to go. He locked the door to his room and went back to where he had left everyone. He got to the make-up artist just in time and went to the stage.

After Melody talked to Jon she phoned her brother Daniel to ask if she could leave earlier the days she had to. As she thought it was fine for him and she invited him to J’s birthday party on Tuesday.

Melody went downstairs to send Faith to bed as she never would go to bed if she didn’t say a thing. She told Ryan he had to be upstairs in a few minutes too. Melody went upstairs and made sure Faith brushed her teeth. Faith kept asking her for a bed time story and Melody finally gave in to read her a story as Ryan walked past the room. Melody sat down on the side of Faith’s bed and started reading the book Faith had picked out.

She wished Faith a good night after the story but Faith didn’t give up, not ready for bed yet. She started asking Melody all kinds of questions about Jon. Melody loved her daughter but just like any other 8 year old she sometimes would only want mum and just be with mum. So Melody gave in for the second time that night and sat back down on Faith’s bed, this time against the wall and took Faith in her lap.
“So mum, is Jon your boyfriend now?” Faith asked as she rested her head on Melody’s shoulder.

“Yes he is.”
“Did you kiss him then?” Faith asked interested.

“Yes.”

“On his mouth?” Faith asked almost shocked.

“Yes.”

“Does that mean you love him then?” She asked intrigued now.

“I’m not sure about that yet.” Melody answered truthfully.

“But you kissed him,” Faith said, “on his mouth.” She said quieter to emphasize it.

“I’m very sure I like him very much, is that ok for you?” Melody asked her.

“So you might love him later then?” Faith asked sounding somewhat hopeful.
“I think I might.” Melody couldn’t deny she had feelings for Jon, she just wasn’t sure yet if it was real love.

“So if you love him, later then, then are you getting married too?” Faith asked.

“I don’t know that Faith.”
“But I could be a bridesmaid and you can buy me a really pretty dress and a really pretty one for you so we both look like princesses.” Faith said excited.

“Faith, I don’t know, but if we do, you can be a bridesmaid.” Melody promised her.
“Good.” Faith concluded.

Melody sat there with her daughter on her lap and started wondering how she knew that much about kisses and it meaning you were in love. She and Robert had gotten divorced when she was only 3 and before that it wasn’t much anymore anyway. Faith had never seen real love between her parents, so she wondered.

After a while Melody noticed Faith had fallen asleep and laid her down on the bed, pulling the covers over her and giving her a kiss. She left the room and checked Ryan’s room where it was dark already. She went back to the den telling Tyler and J to not make it too late, they had school tomorrow.

Melody turned off the living room and kitchen lights as she walked to her room. She set her alarm for the next day and went to bed.

Chapter 21

Chapter 19

The next morning Melody slept in until 10 before getting up. She stretched out and wondered if Jon would be up yet. She decided to wait to phone him until after she showered.

She stepped out of bed and went into the bathroom and turned on the hot water, letting it warm before she got in. She took a towel out of the linen closet and put it by the shower before undressing and getting in the shower.

After her shower she got out her cell phone and phoned Jon. It took him a while to answer but he finally did.

“Morning, hon.” She said, happy she got the first word this time.
“Morning, babe, you’re phoning early.”
“It’s almost 11 Jon, you should be up and at ‘em.” Melody said happily, she was in a really good mood this morning.

“Too early.” He said. “So, what are you doing today?”
“I’m going to the mall when I’m done talking to you. I’m getting you your birthday present. You like red don’t you?” Melody asked.

“Yes, what are you getting?”

“Now why would I tell you?” Melody teased.

“Right, you wouldn’t but I guess it will be red?” He asked.

“Yes it will be.”
“What time will you be home? So I can phone you before the show tonight?”

“I’m not sure, but I’ll be home by 5 because the kids are coming over at 6.” Melody explained.
“Ok, I’ll phone you at 6.15. Have fun shopping.” He said.

They said goodbye and hung up. Melody put her shoes on and got her purse, ready to leave. She got in the car and drove a short 15 minutes to the nearest mall.

She stopped to buy candles first; she found some scented tea lights. She tried out a few smells but finally settled for the ones smelling like roses. Melody took a whole pack and considered buying other kinds of candles, but thought these would be good enough as she could just place them anywhere. For a moment she considered rose petals but thought it would be a bit stupid and thought that was a guy’s thing to do for a girl, so she left it. She paid for the candles and searched the mall for a Victoria’s Secret.

She walked past the food court and decided to stop for a snack first since she had skipped breakfast and it was now after noon. She got herself a sandwich and sat down, trying to think what she exactly wanted to buy. Now she knew it had to be red and of course it had to be sexy.

After her sandwich she got back up and went to look for the store. As she was looking she walked passed another store and decided to go in there instead.

Melody was looking around, not exactly knowing what she should get. She had seen a few red bra’s with matching panties but not quite what she wanted. Normally she found it quite annoying when sales people came to ask if they could help but this time she needed the help. Finally someone noticed her and asked her. Melody explained it was her boyfriend’s birthday on Wednesday and she was looking for something to surprise him and it had to be red. The sales lady motioned to the sets Melody had already seen and she explained she wanted something sexier as all the bras just looked casual.

The lady explained to her they kept those more back in the store. Melody hadn’t known and followed her to the back of the store.

This time there were more that appealed to her. The sales lady left and told Melody to ask when she had any questions.

Melody looked around until she saw the perfect one. A lace and silk satin bra, it had bows on each strap and in the centre. Melody loved it, it was simple but very nice, and she liked the boy shorts that went with it, entirely made in lace. She looked around on the hook for her size but couldn’t find it. She took another size and went to the register to ask if they had her size.

The sales lady said she couldn’t promise anything as it was an older collection and was very popular but went to look in their stock anyway.

Melody waited anxiously for the lady to return already thinking if she got a bigger size it might work too. Finally the lady returned. “It’s the last one.” She said as she handed it to Melody. Melody couldn’t be happier. She went back to the hook to get the shorts and try it on. Under the bright lights in the dressing room she noticed it was more of a dark pink with red lace. She decided it had red, so it would work. She looked at herself in the mirror and confirmed it was perfect, the lace looked nice and she had a nice cleavage. She couldn’t wait to show Jon, he would love it for sure.

After she got dressed again, she took everything to the register and paid. She had thought it would have been more expensive but it wasn’t too bad.

She walked out of the store what else she should get. She had everything she needed to surprise Jon but champagne. Melody knew nothing about champagne or wines so decided to pass on buying any and just get it from room service.

A bit of make-up did sound nice and Melody went to search for a drug store. She didn’t come to the mall often. She usually went shopping in the city when she needed something and went to the mall for last minute items. She was glad to know she could find everything she needed in the mall anyway; it would save her trips to the city from now on.

When she found the drug store she got some deep red lipstick and mascara. She didn’t want to wear much make-up and thought that would be perfect. She walked around the store just browsing around to pass some time when she saw a rack with condoms. She thought they could never be too safe and got a pack.

After that Melody thought she had everything and went back home. She put everything away in her closet and was done right in time the kids got home.

As usual they brought a lot of noise with them. Melody always thought they would get less noisy at coming home if they got older but now 5 years later, it was still a busy commotion. Once they all had their bags back in their rooms and told her the most important stories she could start dinner.

Just as Jon had said he phoned at 6.15.

“Hey, how did your shopping go?” Jon asked her when she picked up.

“Great, I got everything I need.” Melody told him.

“What did you all buy?” He asked.

“You’re not tricking me.” She laughed; he didn’t give up on finding out.

“Well, I like cookies; did you at least get me something delicious?”

“Very delicious, but no cookies, sorry.”

“Aw, I really wanted cookies.”

“Sorry.” She said. “Oh, I’m asking the kids tonight to meet you.”

“Great, any idea when?” He asked excited.
“The second week that you’re off.” She said. He had the first 3 days of the week off when Melody would have her kids.

“So Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday?” He asked.

“What about Tuesday? Then I work at my brother’s cd store and I can go home earlier.” She explained.
He liked the idea and agreed. Jon told her about sound check and how easily things had worked. He was sure it was going to be a great show. He promised he'd tried to phone her back later and they said goodbye.

Melody finished dinner and got all the kids at the table.

Chapter 20