Chapter 9

Gia winced as the bright sun shone through the thin curtains striking her directly in the face. She slowly opened her eyes  , her mind filled with momentary confusion as she gazed hazily around the room . The memories of the night before slowly returned bringing a smile to her face.

She turned to face the person whose arm had her trapped into place . shifting a bit, she took her hand and gently brushed a stray hair out of his face. God last night was mindblowing to say the least -- though there was something about him that could have her fall so deep and so fast.  Whoa Gianna! Where the hell did that thought come from? she pulled back,shocked her mind could even entertain such a thought.

Jon wrinkled his nose and groaned a bit before opening his eyes. His vision was cloudy but his mind wasn’t, She was still there pressed against him warm and soft. Strange waking up like that. It had been a long long time, while he certain didn’t lack bed partners, it usually ended soon after the climax with either him politely taking his leave, or with the girl being shown the door. Not so last night. They hadn’t been able to keep their hands off each other long for either one of them to find an out. They had passed out all sweaty and tangled somewhere near day break.

“Mornin’” he whispered, in a dry voice.

“Mornin’ yourself “ Gia smiled wincing just a bit , her muscles screaming in protest from workout that ended just a few hours ago.

Jon dropped a kiss on her nose then rolled out of bed unashamed of his nakedness he tossed a grin over his shoulder as he dropped the blinds to give their eyes a bit of relief from the glare. “So, I was thinkin’, “ he said moving to the kitchenette and going through the motions of coffee brewing. “I got absolutely nothing planned for the day, if you ain't got nothing doing either, why don’t we find some kinda trouble to get into together?” His face looked calm and collected, but inside he awaited her answer nervously. He really wasn’t looking for much more than a vacation fling but even so, he didn’t want this to be just a wham bam see ya later thing either. Gia was too nice for that. Too nice for a guy like him.

Gia’s eyes followed him in all his naked glory ,as she unconsciously licked her lips. “Sure , trouble is my middle name “ she grinned then slid from the bed , with the blinds down she didn’t bother with a cover either , walking up behind him and near his ear she whispered seductively   “What do you have in mind ? “   her arms slid around his waist pulling him close and resting her hands slightly above his very apparent mornin’ wood.  “Lots of things we could do here in Jamaica “

He groaned at her nearness, it was crazy the way her simple movement made him instantly erect. He smirked down at his saluting soldier then turned to plant a thorough kiss on her swollen lips. “Hell girl, you make me not even wanna leave the room ya know.”

Gia smiled her arms slipping around his neck , fingers playing with the long soft tresses . “I know the feelin’ but if we do , neither of us will be able to walk for the rest of the vacation “ she winked , Damn what was it about this man , that made her crave more,  They say sex could be an addiction , was it possible to be addicted to one man ?

Jon chuckled. She was right, as much as he’d love to throw her down and have his way yet again, he knew he better not, at least not right that instant. “well, I got a whole shitload of pamphlet thangs over there with all sorts of crap to do around this place.” He pulled himself reluctantly away from her smooth naked body and laced his fingers with hers, guiding her back to the bed. He leaned over and picked up a stack of tourist information and spread it out on the bed in front of them. “Why don’t we see what peaks our interest hmm?”

Gia leaned closer , gazing over the plethora of pamphlets on the bed “ Skydiving , nope , Horseback Riding? “ She shot him a glance  ‘Deep sea diving ? Sailing ?  Wait how’s about this one “ She handed a the one on Deep Sea fishing  “Do you fish ? “ then noticing the devilish twinkle appear in his eyes “ Not that kind of fishing . I already know you can do that -- in fact very well ‘

He laughed “Deep sea fishing?” He leaned over to look at the pamphlet. He furrowed his brows, “I’m not really the fishin’ type” He shook his head then shrugged “Ah what the hell! why not? what’s the worst that could happen? I bait a shark and it pulls me in?”

" Well there’s the nude beach ? Na we would get arrested cause we couldn’t just stay naked and not do anything “ She teased “ So deep sea fishing it is , could be quite interesting “

“I have a feeling it will be”

Jon had never spoke words so true. Interesting was an understatement. They’d been out for two hours now, the sea was gleaming clear blue, even though it was warm, a brisk wind blew. He watched as Gia reeled in yet another fish and frowned at  his own line. The guide they’d hired to drive the boat and show them the ropes chuckled at Jon’s distress. When Jon asked what he was doin wrong the man merely shrugged and said “Some people are just naturals”

He grumbled a bit under his breath and had to grin when Gia shrieked at the fish flopping at her feet.

Gia was having a great time and glad they decided to do this, but what had her laughing the most was Jon’s absolute frustration  He doesn't like to not lose at anything apparently she thought giggling to herself.  The fish she had been reeling in had been relatively small so they hadn’t bothered her until she got a huge tug and though  with all her strength it still wasn’t enough to reel this bad boy in , the guide had to help her.

Gia's eyes darted momentarily over at Jon.  Was he jealous? why the fuck would he be jealous for ? What reason would he have to be? Sure the guide had his arms around her waist but not in an perverted way but for some reason it was driving Jon mad.  Her attention quickly turned back to the fish , they struggled for a few more moments to bring in and it came flying to land on the deck mere inches from Gia’s feet , flopping ever so closer to her , she let out a squeal then jumped back into Jon.


“It ain’t gonna bite babe.” he laughed.

“No but its so-- icky “ Gia grimaced.  “Here let it get near you and see if you don't jump too“ She shivered, still leaning against Jon.  “It could be one that bites  never know .”

“Uh no thanks.” Jon laughed and slipped his arms around her waist. He pulled her back against him and they both watched as the guide tossed her catch back over the railing and gave her a thumbs up. Pointing towards the horizon he said, “Looks like a squall headed this way, I think we should head back to shore.”

Jon nodded, as fun as it had been being out on the open water today, no one hounding him for anything, no calls for interviews or technical problems to deal with, A beautiful girl here by his side, he’d seriously had enough of the wild seas. He closed his eyes and leaned his head back to catch the rays still peeking thru the grey clouds. They’d go back to suite, order up some food, some wine, maybe sit out on the balcony and have dinner. He opened his eyes and looked at the quickly darkening horizon. If the weather held out that was.

Gia cuddled up close, that was  enough of fishing for one day,  she muttered to herself then peaked up at the ever darkening sky “Are we gonna make it back in time ? “ a tint of worry sliced through her voice .  It had been a near perfect day other than her run in with a 20 lb whatever the fish she caught was .  Grasping tightly to Jon something in her gut told her this squall was gonna be nasty and she prayed they would make it to shore before it hit .

“It’s ok baby, see.” he gave her a reassuring hug. “ The docks are right there.” he pointed. He made sure to keep his sigh of relief mental. For a moment he’d begun to worry too.

The boat docked , the guide tied it to the post  “Better hurry folks , its gonna hit any second now , hope you both had a great time “

Gia quickly jumped up , grabbing her bag  “Yes we did , thank you  “ she made her way down the plank , stepping on the dock to await Jon , taking his hand they briskly walked back to the hotel.

Just as they stepped through the hotel door , the sky opened up and the rain came.

Chapter 8

Emmie woke bright and early even though she’d had a hard time falling asleep. She couldn’t stop thinking about Richie and those kisses. Even after the effects of the wine wore off, the memory was still just as tantalizing as ever. But she had eventually fallen asleep and now here it was, 7 am and she was wide awake with hours to kill before he’d be there for lunch and whatever else he had planned.

She spent the morning casually sipping coffee, taking a long warm shower and primping. Gone was her plan to spend her whole vacation looking like the plain Jane her mother despised! She wanted to look her best, she had a reason to now. She’d dug through he clothing, unhappy with everything she brought with her. What would he like? Why did she care? She huffed as she finally settled on a pair of denim shorts and soft white cotton tank top trimmed with lace. Comfortable white tennis shoes completed her look. In the bathroom she brushed her thick blonde waves up into a high pony tail then took a bit of time to apply just the right amount of make up. Not too much, not too little, she looked at herself in the mirror and smiled. She knew she looked good and was satisfied.



Richie woke up early well earlier for him , his normal wake up time is noon the same time he had told Em he would meet her at.  Stretching then crawling out of bed , he called down to room service ordering some  coffee then sauntered to the bathroom for a shower.

A few moments later , he emerged towel wrapped around his waist as he rummaged into his bag to find his Japanese tank top and blue running shorts,  He let the towel fall to the floor and slipped on the shorts and tank , slid on a pair socks then a pair of blue tennis shoes to finish the look .  He then walked back to the bathroom , dried his hair taking one last look and with a nod he walked back out just in time for his coffee.

He poured himself a cup , glanced at the clock then after a sip or two it was time to go see Em.  He grabbed his key and headed off to Em’s hotel.

About 20 minutes later he was standing in front of her door knocking .

Emmie opened the door and tried to keep her expression cool. Inside she was eager, overly eager. She’d never so much as had a crush on a boy, let alone a grown man as virile and sexy as Richie. She was sure she would find someway to embarrass herself today, either with her over enthusiasm or with her naivety but none the less she couldn’t wait for their day to begin.

 “Mornin’” she smiled sweetly.

“Mornin’ “ Richie’s gaze fell over her , damn if she doesn’t get more beautiful over night , “Ready to tackle Jamaica man “ he said in his best or worst Jamaican Accent.

Emmie chuckled “I’m ready but um... you know you just sounded like Prince Charles gone Rastafarian right?”

He laughed “ This is why I’m a rock star and not a interperter “

“I think you missed your calling.” she laughed as she grabbed her room key and followed him out into the hall. “You shoulda been a comedian.”

“You think I’m funny , you should meet the Joker “ He winked , risked taking her hand in his and walked down the hallway to the elevators.

She flushed clear to her roots at the simple contact of his hand on hers. Why did she like it so much? who cared, so long as he didn’t stop! “Who’s the Joker?” she asked.

They had stepped onto the elevator , he pushed lobby button then answered “ David, our keyboardist , He’ll have you laughing so much you’d piss yourself “

Emmie giggled “Well, I’m not sure I’d....” she paused. Swearing was more Gia’s style than hers, her mother didn’t think a lady should let such words pass from her lips. But mother’s not here Em so just say it! Quit being so uptight! “Um.. piss.... myself but um... he sounds like an interesting character for sure.”

Richie bit back a smirk “ I think your mom will think I’m a bad influence on you , darlin’ “ he teased “Yes Dave , Lemma or Joker whatever you wanna call him is very interesting never a dull moment thats for sure “

They stepped off the elevator , walked a short jaunt to the hotel restaurant  where they were immediately seated .

All through lunch Emmie marveled once again at how easy he was to talk to, to laugh with. He was so attentive! When he asked a question and she answered she could tell, he really paid attention to what she said. She wondered why he was the way he was. From what she knew of men all they wanted in a woman was beauty and silence. It’s the main reason why she’d never really dated. The few times she’d agreed to go out with a guy, usually arranged by her loving but meddling mother, she’d felt as if having an opinion was a crime. It was no wonder she was one of the very few girls her age that until last night had never even been kissed!

After lunch Richie decided on Horseback riding on the beach would be a fun thing to do. So off they went to the stables , he paid and helped her up on the horse then he climbed behind her.

He laughed “This is a first for me. How about you? “ The boys would be having a good laugh about now if they saw him. Never had he ever gone to this extreme to romance a girl, but there was just something about Em and wanting to make these couple weeks special, if she'd let him.

“I’ve actually spent quite some time on horseback.” she admitted and sighed a bit when she felt his warmth pressing against her back. His thighs leaned heavily on the outside of hers and when his arms enveloped her as he reached for the reigns she tilted her head back a bit to peer up at him. “You uh... you know what your doin’ with those?” She asked a bit warily.

“Um honestly no “ He laughed “Care to help ? “ he reached for her hands placed them under his “So whats next , Giddup right ? “

“Why don’t you let me handle this one cowboy?” She grinned and tossed a wink over her shoulder at him. She slid both reigns into one hand and let her free hand rest gently on his bare thigh. It was a bold move for her but oh so exhilarating! his warm smooth skin teased her fingertips and she nearly forgot to nudge the horse forward.  Shaking herself out of her daze she pressed her knees gently into the horses sides and the docile mare obliged her by traveling at a smooth steady gate out of the stables and down the wide expanse of white beach.

Richie chuckled “This is actually fun. But don’t let on to my friends. Will ya ? “ his hands rested on her hips , his gaze every once and awhile would glance back on her backside that bounced up and down from the gentle cadence of the horse , causing his shorts to get a bit tight as his thoughts drifted to what else would make her backside bounce like that.

It was getting harder and harder to ignore the hot firm body the was gently nudging against her own with every step of the shared horse. The sun had her warm, but Richie’s closeness had her warmer.  She found herself closing her eyes and leaning back against him. The natural rhythm of the mares gait  was just enough to send even her innocent mind plunging into thoughts of more carnal pleasures. How would it feel to have him this close, naked, their bodies rubbing gently together. Her eyes flew open and she had a very hard time not gasping in shock at her own wayward thoughts. My God! this man is making me insane!

Richie growled inwardly who knew just riding horseback would lead to the perverted thoughts that plagued his mind more often than not.  “Em , why don’t we stop here and take a walk in the water? “ He shifted again trying to give his hardened member room to breath, he was trying to be a gentleman but his lower half was saying Fuck being a gentleman! Seduce her you know you can.

When she pulled on the reigns calling the horse to a halt , He climbed down then offered his hand to her.  .

She slipped off her shoes and socks before she  took the offered hand and followed him silently to the waters edge. The cool water lapped at her feet and while it relived a bit of the weather induced heat she felt. It did nothing to alleviate the burning she felt deep in her belly, or the fluttering of her heart. She was caught between thoughts of throwing herself at him right then and there and bolting as far away from him as possible.

Richie had kicked off his shoes and socks, then gently reached for her hand as they walked silently along the beach.  “So have you been to Jamaica before ? This is like my second time , thinking of getting a home here . Its so breathtakin’ “  God , Sambora that sounds so cheezy

 It’s not as breathtaking as you are She said silently but spoke, “Well, yeah I have, a few times actually.. and yeah it’d be a nice place to live, at least part of the time.” She stopped to look out into the crystal clear blue waters.

‘So you love California then ? “ Richie asked “ I also thought about getting a house there too “ he stood behind her his arms encircling her waist pulling her up to his chest.

“I do, I really do.” She sighed contentedly and backed up even closer to him. He made her feel so safe wrapped around her like he was. She stole a glance back at him and smiled

Richie turned her to face him, his hands cupping her face then smiled as he leaned in for a kiss “Trying to be a gentleman , but girl its just so damned hard “

She knew now it’s definitely wasn’t just the wine last night. That same intense feeling that had her tingling from head to toe was back the instant his lips touched hers. She turned in his embrace and slid her arms around his neck. She stood on tip toe and this time, instead of merely allowing him to kiss her, she gently pulled his lips down and returned his kisses. Her efforts were unskilled and she knew it but it didn't stop her from trying. A light moan of deep seated pleasure escaped her mouth when his tongue gently invaded.

Richie slipped his tongue gently into her mouth , probing as his kisses intensified.  His hands slide down to her backside and cupped it .  Pulling back briefly , he smiled “Wanna head back inside ? Your room or mine?”

She heard herself answering him in a voice she didn’t recognize “yours”

“Ok darlin’ my room it is “ Richie pulled away, taking her hand in his , walked back to the horse, grabbing the reigns with the other hand , and they slowly walked back to the stables .

Chapter 7

Gia nervously followed Jon into the bedroom.  Never had she been like this before, but this guy had blown into her world and turned it all topsy-turvy, and for the life of her she couldn’t figure out why.  She let him lead her to the bed, her arms encircling his neck.  She brought him closer to her lips and kissed him.  Damn if she didn’t see stars the moment their lips touched.

Jon groaned in delight when she kissed him.  She was so hot, so wanting, and all with no other agenda than that she wanted him.  Him, not his name.  Hell, his name didn’t even register with her and that, for some crazy reason, turned him on more than anything.  “Damn, baby.  Now that’s what I’m talkin’ about,” he purred the words huskily in her ear while his hands slid down to grasp her ass firmly before he swept her up into his arms and laying her gently on the bed.  He crawled over her, nudging his knee between her thighs and settling his still-clothed body in the cradle of her hips, pressing her down into the bed.  His tongue, quick as lightning, snaked between her lips, then plunged in fully.  He let every last bit of reserve fall, showing her the unrestrained height of his passion.

Gia let out a squeal.  One moment she had been standing near the edge of the bed, the very next she was flat on her back, with Jon hovering over her like a tiger hunting his prey.  A groan escaped her lips, and her hips lifted, rubbing her core against his still-restrained cock.  Her hands went to work on his buttons; as badly as she wanted to just rip the shirt off of him, she restrained herself, not wanting him to think--what the hell does it matter what he thinks?, flashed briefly in her desire-fogged mind.  Tugging off his shirt, she lifted up, taking a nipple softly nestled beneath a patch of hair into her mouth.  She rolled her tongue around it, giving it a slight tug with her teeth.  While her mouth was enjoying the taste of his nipples, her hand slid slowly down the hair on his chest to the buckle that held his pants in place.

Jon shifted his hips, allowing her to undo his belt.  The loosening of his pants gave a little relief to his swollen hardness, but not enough.  He tore his lips from hers and blazed a trail of kisses down one side of her neck, stopping briefly to nibble the sensitive crevice at the base.  Meanwhile, his hand slipped up under the hem of her dress, shoving it haphazardly up her thighs until it revealed her lacy red panties.  He splayed his hand across the fabric and gently rubbed her through her panties before pulling her up only long enough to reach behind her, tugging on the zipper, then sliding it down her legs and giving it a toss.

Gia let out a deep gasp.  The suddenness of her dress leaving her body sent a shiver up and down her spine.  The intensity of the fire burning within her both scared and excited her.  She reached for his pants, and with one swift yank, pulled them off, tossing them to join her dress pooled on the  floor.  A smile of satisfaction played on her lips when she noticed he wasn’t wearing any underwear.

As if they were a magnet attracted to a piece of metal, her hands sought out his throbbing member and, with a devilish glint in her eye, she gazed up into those beautiful pools of blue staring at her.  She ran her hands slowly and very deliberately over him as she raised up on her knees to reach that enticing mouth of his, almost kissing the breath out of him.

He made quick work of her undergarments, and in no time had her naked body pulled flush against his.  His mouth dropped to tease one savory nipple, then the other, and back again.  Her salty skin permeated his senses, and he growled low in his throat.  Pushing her back on the bed once again, he raised her hands above her head, trapping them there while his mouth attacked hers once more.  His hips slid into place and he rocked himself gently against her slick heat, firmly, teasing but not yet giving her what she was seeking.

Gia raised her hips, rubbing herself against him, her constant purr of sexual frustration reaching a fevered pitch as he continued to tease.  Never in the four whole times she had given herself to a man had she had such a pent-up orgasm begging for release, yet no matter how much she begged, he continued with his torture.  “Please,” she whimpered, frustrated that she couldn’t touch him in return.  All she could do was buck up to meet him, her legs spread wider, her core dripping with desire.

He knew she was close, could hear it in her whimpers and pleas.  Those little sounds were like gasoline to his already raging fire, and he couldn’t stop himself any longer.  He had to have her and have her now.  He slid himself deeply inside her with a groan of pleasure as her muscles tightened on him.

Gia purred like a kitten the moment he entered her warmth, sending her into an immediate orgasm.  She raised her legs, wrapping them around his waist, her mouth seeking his as soft pants of pure pleasure escaped her lips.  She wanted to call out his name, scream it at the top of her lungs, but no words would come.  The only sounds she heard were the squeaking of the bed and his groans mixed with hers, which set her off into another cosmic orgasm, her heels digging into his back.  God, this man could show a girl a good time!

The second time she crested, Jon loosened his grip on her hands.  His thrusts took on a fevered pitch, and he began to ride hell bent for leather.  Higher and higher he flew, his breathing becoming ragged.  His arm reached around and shifted her leg up closer to his shoulder, and he moaned his satisfaction at the added depth he gained.  He could hold back no longer; it was out of his hands.  His body contracted and shivered.  With a shout and one last plunge, he flew over the edge.  His body slowly coming to a stop, he panted and leaned his forehead against hers.

Her heart felt like it was going to explode out of her chest as she struggled to catch her breath, and when he loosened her hands, they immediately went to his back, her nails digging in as she hung on for dear life.  The room was spinning full-force, her eyes glazed over, and all she saw was a multitude of colors as the orgasm dragged on and on.  The whimpers were no longer there, for she couldn’t find her voice, even if she had wanted to, from the moment they met their peak together until he collapsed from a mixture of sexual satisfaction and exhaustion.  She swore she would never breathe right again.

Once his breathing had returned to some semblance of normality, he huskily whispered, “Damn woman, I could get used to that.”

Gia lay there for a moment, her hands stroking his back, then smiled, “If I knew musicians literally rocked a girl’s world, I would have tried them a long time ago.  Or is it the Italian in you?” she quipped.  “Or both.”

He grinned.  “Both, of course.”  He winked, then dropped a slow, soft kiss on her lips.

“Then I do believe this is a great start to an unforgettable vacation,” she murmured wickedly, her hand sliding farther up and into his long blondish mane.

“Mmmm, yeah,” he agreed.  “Whattaya say we keep this party going?”

“Thought you’d never ask,” Gia purred, pulling his head down to meet her lips.

Chapter 6

Chapter 6

Emmie was laughing as she sipped her wine.  They had tired of sodas long ago, so she’d called down and ordered some bubbly to share.  They were sitting on a blanket on the balcony, having shoved the patio table and chairs out of the way.  As they talked, they watched the cruise ships sail by, defined in the dark only by their many lights against the pitch  black water and sky.

It amazed her how quickly things had changed in a matter of hours.  When Richie had first showed up at her door, she’d been icy, cool, reserved, and ready to send him on his merry way without so much as an explanation.  But now, just a couple hours later, she was open and warm.  She’d been telling him things only Gia knew about her family, about her life.  She wasn’t normally so open, especially not with a man, but he seemed genuinely interested, or at least he pretended to be, and it was nice for change.

Richie had sat and listened through a couple sodas and a bottle of wine.  Now they were working on a second, and for the first time since he had hit the big time, not once had his mind headed south--well, okay, maybe once, but she was far different from all the girls he had been around as of late, and it was definitely a refreshing change.  Normally, rich girls were a bit of a turn off; they tended to be snooty and aloof.  But not Em, she had dreams, desires, and from the way it sounded, her life was far from the picturesque life most would think a girl of her stature would have.

They had moved their conversation back inside on the couch, and with a flick of remote, started to watch TV.  Richie had told her about his life, and how it had become the crazy rock-’til-you-drop lifestyle, even confessing that sometimes he wished it were still normal.

“So, Em, if you could have or be anything in the world, what would it be?” Richie asked as he sat his empty wine glass on the table and gazed at her.

Emmie giggled as a million answers flew through her mind.  She knew she’d had a bit more wine than was wise, but so what!  She felt better than she ever had, and she was having FUN!  “Anything at all?”  She took another sip of the evil red liquid.  “A poor person with a gas station job, and no nagging relatives to preach to her about what’s appropriate and proper!” she said with barely veiled anger.  “I’d go out with dirt under my nails, hair on my legs, and ratty old clothes I bought at a--GASP!--second hand store!”  Her giggles continued unabashed as she visualized how scandalized her mother would be if she were to see her in such a state.

Richie laughed.  “Why don’t you just do it?  You have graduated, so there shouldn’t be anything that's really stopping you now.”  She shot him an exasperated look.  “I know you’re not 18 yet, but you’re close enough you could tell her to let you be yourself.  She can’t live her life through you.  You’re your own person.”

“Because, Richie!”  She shook her head at  him.  “It’s FAMILY, and you don’t just up and leave your family high-and-dry and just do what you please.  Family sticks together!  Even if they irritate you to no end.  I can’t just up and go get a job and stuff!”  She let her face fall into a pout.  “Besides,” her tone turned ironic, “I do sorta like my expensive clothes, and manicures, and fancy hotel suites.”  She hung her head and groaned.  “God, I am a spoiled little rich brat!”  After another pause, she added, “And I think I’m also kinda drunk?”  She sounded very perplexed at how she’d become so.

Richie scooted a bit closer, swung his arm around her, pulled her into a hug, and with a chuckle replied, “It’s okay to love all the finer things in life.  I find I enjoy them myself, darlin’.  No, you’re not a spoiled brat.  You just know what you like, nothin’ wrong with that.”  He placed a kiss on her forehead.  “Yes, you’re just a bit drunk, and there’s nothin’ wrong with that, either, every once in awhile.”

Emmie was engulfed by large, strong arms.  The scent of his cologne tickled her nose, and when his full lips touched the skin of her forehead, she let out an involuntary groan of confusion.  Why did he smell so damn good? Why was her skin tingling?  Was she warm from the wine, or from his nearness?  What the actual hell was going on?! “Oh my...” she mumbled as she pulled back a bit from his casual embrace.  She looked up into dark, amused brown eyes.  “I think I like you way too much,” she muttered, then shook her head in surprise.  “I mean...um...that wasn’t supposed to be said out loud!”

A smirk spread across Richie’s face. “It’s okay.  I think I like you way too much, too,” he said teasingly.  He sat there for a moment, debating whether to ask for a kiss from those lips just begging to be kissed, or just do it.  Deciding on the latter, he leaned in, cupped her face and placed a sweet kiss on her lips.

Emmie froze when his lips touched hers, a slight gasp escaping her.  Her mind told her to move away, to pull back, put distance between herself and his delicious....  Her mind melted, and she felt herself leaning in closer.  She was vaguely aware of her hand slipping up to touch his cheek, then slide around to rest on his neck, his long hair tickling her skin.  Those lips, they were dangerous!  So soft, yet firmly demanding, he was slowly casting a spell on her with their warmth.

His hands slid further down her back while his kisses deepened, but deep in the back of his mind, he knew to not push too far.  She wasn’t like the girls at their shows.  “You taste so good, Em.  I think I found a new addiction.”  His eyes twinkled, then he pressed his lips against hers one more time, his hands softly caressing her back, pulling her closer to him.

“New?”  She gave a nervous chuckle as she leaned her head on his shoulder and willed her breathing to slow down.  “You have a lot of addictions?”

He pulled back, and with a deep, hearty laugh, said, “Naw, darlin’.  Just saying, if I had addictions, which I don’t--okay, maybe a bit of se--um, never mind.  Anyway, I think you would be it.”

She smiled a bit, not quite sure what to do or say.  At least now she understood what Gia meant by someone “rockin’ her world”.  After that round of kisses, if she hadn’t been so uptight and unsure of herself, she would have grabbed him and dragged him to her bedroom!  Her body was positively singing from head to toe, and her head was buzzing.  Oh wait, maybe that was wine?  No, no, it wasn’t; it was him.  She simply looked up at him and said, “Wow, just...wow,” and gave another nervous laugh.

Richie shifted a bit, his jeans a little snug.  Normally, he would have had the girl’s clothes off and been giving her what the King of Swing was known to give, but again, this girl was different.  He needed to be patient.  When she was ready--if she was ever ready--he would then take the next step.  With the nod of his head, he agreed, “Yes, ma’am, it was definitely a wow moment.”  His eyes twinkled devilishly.

She cleared her throat and looked at the clock.  “Yeah, um...it’s, uh, getting kind of late and, um, I’ve had a little too much wine.  I should probably...head to bed.”

“Do you need to help?  Before I leave,” Richie suggested as he stood up.  “I had a great time.  I’d like to do this again, or maybe we can do something tomorrow.  Sightsee?  Lunch?”

Emmie nodded as she walked him to the door.  “Yeah, lunch sounds good.”  She felt a sudden sadness that he was leaving, but she kept it to herself.

Richie leaned down, his lips barely a hair’s breath from hers.  “How’s noon sound?”

With a sigh, she muttered, “Perfect,” though whether she was talking about the time or his lips so teasingly close, she was unsure.

“Great, see you then.  Wear some comfortable shoes; we might do some hiking,” he suggested, then pressed his lips to her one more time before he left.  “Sleep well, darlin’.”

She nodded, and leaned against the door frame as watched him disappear down the hall.  Once he was gone, she shut the door and leaned against it.  “Wow...” she sighed, then fairly floated off to find her bed.

Chapter 5

Gia slowly glanced at the numbers of the rooms until she reached 415. Giving herself a quick once-over, her nerves settling in the pit of her stomach, she swallowed hard, then gave a light tap to the door.  Why the hell was she so nervous?  It wasn’t like it was her first date. 

Jon opened the door, a lazy smile playing on his lips as his eyes raked her body.  “Well, good evening.”  He winked, and stepped aside.  “Come on in.”

Gia paused for a moment, taking in his appearance: black silk pants, white dress shirt--unbuttoned, causing her heart to race and her underwear to grow moist.  Her eyes shot back up to his hair, which was haphazardly done, and those eyes...well, those eyes.  Mentally scolding herself for just standing there devouring him with her eyes, she sweetly smiled.  “Good evening.” 

She stepped inside, taking in her surroundings.  Hell, these aren’t no beach bums, that's for sure.  Living with her aunt for so long, she could sense money, not that was the one thing she wanted in a man.  Hell, she didn’t care if he was dirt-poor and working in a pizza joint.  But this man, he was so different from all the men her aunt tried to hook her up with.  He didn’t come across as snooty.  Cocky, yes, but to her that was a typical male trait. 

He watched as she gave his place the once-over and wondered at her non-reaction.  Most ladies were easily impressed by obvious wealth, but Gia didn’t even bat an eyelash.  Interesting, very interesting.  “So, I wasn’t sure what to get.  Guess I should have asked earlier, but hell, I figured good old-fashioned Italian usually works for anyone, so...”  He sauntered over to the table and removed the silver lids from the dishes, revealing savory chicken Parmesan, a tossed salad, and garlic bread.  He shrugged.  “It smells wonderful, but I’m sure it ain't as good as Ma’s home cookin’.”  He grinned.

Gia’s heart immediately ached at the mention of the word Ma.  Quickly shaking the sadness that had remained in her heart, she smiled.  “Its smells fantastic.  I love Italian.  Then again, what Italian wouldn’t?”  Then,  flashing him a wink , she sat down.  “You certainly know how to charm a girl.” 

Jon couldn’t hold back a snort.  “I do?!”  He looked positively baffled.  “Never thought of myself as a charmer, really,” he admitted as he pulled out a chair for her.

“Oh, don’t play coy with me.”  She grinned, then grew serious.  “You mean you don’t think you’re a charmer?”  She held her glass up as he poured a vintage red wine.  One thing she was an expert on was wine, and this was no cheap bottle.  She caught herself before making a spectacle of herself; this wine was at least three-hundred dollars a bottle!  “Good taste in wine, too?” 

Jon shrugged.  “I just have a taste for the finer things in life.”  He sat across from her and picked up his fork.  “I got a bottle of this, too.”  He motioned toward the single-malt whiskey sitting beside the wine carafe.  “You did say you liked anything with alcohol, so I thought you might appreciate a good after-dinner whiskey.”

Gia’s eyebrow raised, then she nodded.  “Yes, I did.  You remembered.”  She was pleasantly surprised; most guys, even the rich jerks, tended to forget she had a mouth and could speak, and usually went what they wanted, whether it was drinks, dinner, or even--with the four men she’d slept with--their favorite positions.  She held up her glass in a toast.  “Here’s to a nice evening.” 

He nodded as he toasted with her, then, taking a small bite, said, “So, Gia...who are you?”  Normally, he wouldn’t ask, wouldn’t really care.  He knew they both wanted the same thing, so it didn’t really matter, yet he just felt the need to know a little more than just her name.

“Do you want my aunt’s version of who I am, or do you want who I was supposed to be?”  She scoffed, then quickly apologized, “I’m sorry.  I’m Gianna Ricci.  I’m from originally from Jersey, but I was raised in California since I was about six-years-old.  I’m Italian, and proud of it.”

“Jersey?  I’m from Jersey.” 

Gia’s smile grew.  “Really?  I’m from a town called Woodbridge, but I don’t remember much of it.  I was very young when I moved to Beverly Hills.” 

“Woodbridge?  Cool.  Richie’s from there.  Me, I’m from Sayreville.  Most people know--er--” he cut himself off.  He realized she really didn’t know who he was.  She couldn’t possibly know.  She would have said something by now ,and for some reason, he wanted to keep her unaware.  “I mean, uh, most people from that area know the neighboring towns pretty well, too.”

“I unfortunately don’t get out there.  My Nana still lives there, but she comes out to California to see me,” Gia replied, her voice tinged with sadness.  “I hope to--in fact, I would love to move back there someday.”

“So, you live with, um...what’s her name?  Emily?  Emmie?  That chick Richie’s got the hots for...”

Gia chuckled.  “Yeah, I do.  With her mom and dad.  Her mom is--was--my mom’s sister.” 

Jon nodded.  It made sense now that she’d used the past tense when speaking of her family.  He sensed the sadness in her and decided to change the subject.  “So what’s the occasion, then?  You here just for a vacation?  Celebration?  What?  Two hot young ladies off on their own...out on the prowl?”  He waggled his eyebrows.

“Vacation.  Em?  Not so much on the prow.”  Gia grinned.  “Though your friend might be the one to change her mind.  Me?  Anything to piss my aunt off, I do it.” 

He chuckled and mumbled, “I can almost guarantee it,” took a sip of wine, then looked at her curiously.  “If you hate living with your aunt so much, why don’t you just leave?”

“Hell, I don’t know, other than, at least if I'm there, she lays off Em.  She isn’t evil, it’s just she doesn’t like the Italian part in me.  Or more that she hated my dad, for some reason, and she’s trying to make me into a California girl, groom me into the next Queen of England or something.  Em, she’s had to be the perfect princess.  I do and say the things I do to make my aunt have the vapors.  My uncle laughs behind her back, of course, but does what she orders to be done to keep her happy.”  Gia paused a moment, taking a long gulp of her wine.  “Sorry, didn’t meant to damper this nice evening.”

Jon shook his head.  “Not dampening at all.  I find it amusing.  I probably shouldn’t, though, since it bothers you so much.  But seriously, I’d like to meet this woman.  I’d have her--what did you call it?--in vapors for good!”  He laughed heartily.  “She sounds like a real piece of work.”

A true, genuine burst of laughter escaped her as she visualized her aunt’s face if Gia brought Jon home for dinner.  “You would send her into a tizzy, that's for sure.  Definitely not the type I should be with, though keep in mind not many would want me if they knew I had Italian in me.  Go figure.  So I speak Italian most of the time, just to grate on her nerves.” 

Jon shook his head.  “Doesn’t make sense.  Where I come from, that’s what a mama wants for her boys: a good, strong, opinionated bitch of an Italian woman.”  He laughed.

Gia laughed too.  “Well, you’re in luck.  I just happen to be one,” she said, bringing her glass to her lips, her eyes capturing his.  “So, what do you do for a living?  Definitely not a beach bum.” 

“A beach bum?”  He laughed.  “No, not a beach bum.  Me?  I just, ya know, do a little of this, a little of that, but, um, mostly dabble with music,” he answered as honestly, yet as vaguely, as possible.

“Ah, so you’re a musician?  That’s cool.  Rock, I suppose?” Gia asked, taking her last bite of chicken Parmesan. 

“Yeah.”  He chuckled.  “Is it that obvious?”

“Well, with that long hair, you’re either a beach bum, hippie, or into rock.“  Gia laughed.

He laughed.  “True, I guess.  But seriously, the only reason my hair is long is to piss off my dad.”  He grinned cheekily, surprising himself by relaxing so quickly with her.

“Your dad?  Why you say that?” Gia asked.  “I think it looks...nice.” Her eyes twinkled with desire, and with a bit of orneriness.

“ ‘Cause he’s a barber.  Hairdresser, ya know?  And a haircut, in my family, was punishment, so...”

“Oh, it’s a sin to cut that beautiful hair.”  Gia leaned over the table, and her hand, as if having a mind of its own, reached out and gently ran through the soft tresses. 

Jon grinned and grasped her hand gently, pulling her around the table and onto his lap.  “So, I’m guessing we’ve learned enough about each other to leave the small talk behind, hmm?”

“I believe so, yes,”  Gia leaned in close.  Those eyes were gonna be the death of her if she kept staring into them.  Her eyes darted to his lips and she licked hers in anticipation of what was going to happen next. 

“Well then, far be it from me to keep a lady waiting.”  His hands grasped her waist firmly and set her on her feet.  He rose and took her hand, leading her, with a devilish glint in his eyes, to the bedroom.

Chapter 4

Richie traversed his way through the soft sand, the moon shining brightly off the ocean. All day he couldn’t get his mind off the petite blonde beauty, and when Jon said he had found out which hotel they were staying at, and in fact had scored a date with the raven-haired girl that seemed to have captivated his buddy, Richie had been more than eager to go keep her cousin company.

Reaching the hotel, he traipsed inside and to the front desk, and with a flash of his pearly whites, he asked, “Excuse me, ma’am, could you tell me the room number of a friend of mine: Emmie Caden? I wanted to pay her a surprise visit.”

The woman looked up and asked, “Can you spell that, please, sir?” Her fingers were poised over the keyboard.

Richie bit his bottom lip, trying to think how the hell you spell that. “Um...er...well, C-A-D-E-N.” He winced, hoping like hell he was right. If not, she might have security after his ass.

The woman smirked. She knew exactly who the man was looking for: Senator Caden’s daughter. The Senator himself had called earlier and asked the staff to keep an eye out for his only daughter and his niece. He’d also asked that no one hamper the girls’ fun in any way, or let it be known that they were being protected. She knew this man; he was famous enough that she felt safe in giving him the suite number. Hell, he and the Senator’s daughter probably ran in the same circles; most rich folks did. “Miss Caden is in suite 715. Top floor, last door on the left, Mr. Sambora.” She winked, letting Richie know she knew who he was and that, if she hadn’t, he wouldn’t have gotten a peep out of her.

Richie smiled and, with a wink, said, “Thanks, darlin’,” and strolled towards the elevators. Pushing the button, he waited for the doors to open. A few moments later, he stepped into the box, pressing the button for floor number seven..

He watched the numbers light up until the elevator reached the seventh floor and the doors opened. He turned left, walking slowly, peering at each number on the doors until he reached 715. He paused for a moment, giving himself a quick once-over, then knocked.

Emmie was startled out of her story by the loud rap on the door. She glanced at the clock. It was only half past eight; Gia couldn’t possibly be back already. Besides, she wouldn’t knock. Unless she’d forgotten her key. Emmie sighed and tossed her book face-down on the couch. She rose, tightening her robe around her waist, and padded to the door. As she opened it, she said, “Geesh, Gia, was he that bad? What happened, did you forget your...key?” she ended the sentence in bewilderment. It wasn’t Gia; it was Richie. The tall, handsome beach guy she’d completely forgotten about since she’d picked up her book. “Um, hi?” she said curiously.

Richie’s gaze fell on the little lady. She looked even more beautiful now than in her bikini. “Heya, darlin’. Heard through the grapevine you were alone and thought I would keep you company.”

“I...well, um.” Emmie wasn’t quite sure what to do. She and Gia joked about the whole slut vs. prude thing, but whereas Gia wasn’t really a slut, Emmie certainly could be considered a prude, and inviting a handsome stranger into her hotel with her--alone--was not something she would normally do. She let her eyes slide over him, up and down. He looked harmless enough, relaxed black jeans and a snug fitting t-shirt, both in much better repair than the tattered swim shorts he’d had on early. Her gaze landed on his shoes. They were brand new Barker Black Ostrich Cap-toes, and they cost one hell of a pretty penny. She raised an eyebrow, wondering how a guy like him could afford a pair of those! Intrigued, she opened the door, taking a step back to let him in. “Okay, sure, come in.”

Richie watched the indecisive expressions play across her face. “Darlin’, I promise I won’t bite. Just thought you could use some company, is all.” When she took a step back, a bright smile spread across his face, and he sauntered in, heading towards the couch. “Good book?” he asked, glancing down at the romance novel that lay on the couch.

“Huh?” She looked down. “Oh! Yeah. Yeah, it’s not bad. I, um. I really wasn’t expecting anyone. I would offer you a drink, but all I have is water, soda, and...well, that’s it, really.”

Richie smiled. He moved the book out the way, carefully marking it so she didn’t lose her place, and sat down. “Soda is fine. I don’t drink alcohol all the time.” He winked.

Emmie nodded, and nervously tugged the tie around her waist tighter before pouring him a cold soda. She handed it over. “I, uh...if you’ll excuse me, I should probably go throw something on. I was, um...well.” She shook her head, unsure why she felt so on-edge around him. She normally didn’t give a guy the time of day, so for her to feel off-balance and nervous around Richie was just insane. “I’ll be back in just a few, okay?” She turned and headed for her bedroom to throw on something a bit more covering and less enticing. She quickly shed the robe and tossed a simple black sundress over her head. Sure, it didn’t cover much more than her robe, but at least it wouldn't bunch and gap with the least little move. Now maybe she could relax. She headed back out and took a seat on the couch a few feet from him.

Richie had watched her take off for the bedroom, skittish as a newborn colt. A smile spread across his face. He was gonna have to take a different approach to this girl. When she walked back out, his eyes cast an appreciative glance. “That was quick,” he said teasingly.

Emmie shrugged and eyed him suspiciously. “So, how did you find me? Gia?”

“No, I didn’t even see her. Jon said he had a date with her, so I figured I would keep you company,” Richie replied as he took a sip of his soda.

“So you just walked up to the front desk and asked for a blonde named Emmie?”

“No. I added your last name, too. You told me: Caden, right?” Richie grinned sheepishly.

“I did?” Emmie frowned. “Oh, right, I did.” She nodded as she recalled the little bit of conversation they’d had in between sips of wine and Richie conversing with the other men, whom he said were part of his “crew”, whatever that meant. “So, I never did get yours.”

“I didn’t mention, did I? Well, my full name is Richard Stephen Sambora, but please, just call me Richie.” He chuckled, searching her face of some kind of recognition to his name, and when there was none, it cause him to smile even more.

She watched him laugh and wondered, “You find your name funny?”

“No, just don’t like Richard. Makes me sound old,” he laughed.

“Well, how old are you?” she asked.

“Twenty-nine.” He winced, waiting for the usual reaction he got, especially from a younger girl, which he assumed she was. But at least legal, he hoped.

Emmie simply raised an eyebrow, recalling the conversation she’d had with Gia earlier in the day about middle-aged thirty-year-old men with family jewels flapping in the breeze. She bit back a chuckle and said, “Well, that’s not too bad...I guess.”

“Not too bad, you guess. How old did you think I was?” Richie asked, his eyebrow arched. “And how old are you, may I ask?”

“I never was good at guessing ages, but Gia seems to gravitate towards older guys, so I figured about thirty-ish.” She paused. “As for me? Too young for you.” She winked and curled her legs up under her, settling back, becoming more and more relaxed with him.

“Does that mean you’re legal, or not?” He smirked, throwing his arm across the back of the sofa.

“Legal for what, Mr. Sambora?” she teased.

Richie waggled his eyebrows. “Legal for anything you want, darlin’.”

Emmie snorted, then laughed. “I’m pretty darn sure I’m not wanting the same things you and your crew are wanting. But I’m legal enough...almost.”

Richie laughed. “What are you wantin’?” Then it dawned on him what she might think his line of work was, “Darlin’, what do you think I do for a livin’?”

“I have no idea. Gia and I were debating.” She sat up to look him over again as she spoke. “At first I thought maybe you were just a beach bum, you know, surfer or whatever. Then when we were having those couple drinks, I heard you talking about shipping stuff and customs, so I thought maybe you were into, like, international freight or something. But then I saw those shoes...” She pointed at the shiny tops peeking out from under his jeans. “Now, I might not be the smartest girl in the world, but I know my fashion and those, those babies are REALLY expensive AND hard to come by, so...I don’t know, but whatever it is you do, I hope it’s not illegal.”

Richie snorted as he listened to her ramblings, then answered, “Darlin’, we’re musicians, and maybe some things we partake in ain’t quite legal, but our job is. I play guitar and sing back up for Jon. He’s our singer. Then there’s Tico, the Cuban you saw with us, and the kinda curly guy that was hanging with him is David, our keyboardist. Then there’s Alec. No description needed for him.”

“Oh...a musician...” It wasn’t what she’d expected at all. “That’s...nice.” She pushed a bit of her hair back from her face, still eyeballing his exquisite shoes. “I’m guessing it pays well?”

“Very well.” He paused, pinched the bridge of his nose. “You sure you’ve never heard of us? Bon Jovi? We are--hate to stroke my own ego, but--really big right now.”

“Bon Jovi? Uh, yeah. Yeah, I have, I think. On the radio.” Great! He’s rich and famous, she thought sarcastically. The first time she’d been even remotely intrigued by a man and he had to be rich. She hated rich guys!

Richie slightly shook his head, a bit amused. That was definitely not the reaction he expected. “So don’t tell me you hate musicians.”

“No, no, I don’t hate musicians. Why would you think that? You’re actually the first...real musician I’ve met.” She shrugged.

“Well, you just seem a bit indifferent now,” Richie replied with a bit of confusion. He really hoped he hadn’t scared her off because of what he did for a living.

“Do I? I’m sorry.” She sighed and got up, making her way to the double glass doors, looking out. “It’s not your fault. I just thought you were...well...” She looked back at him with a sheepish, if slightly embarrassed, smile. “Just a nobody, you know? Not... well-to-do, not...in my circles.” She fidgeted a bit, knowing how snotty that sounded, but there really was no other way to explain it.

Richie stood up, his expression one of surprise. It was the first time anyone was actually almost annoyed with him having money. He walked over to her, gently grasped her shoulders, and turned her to face him. “Is it that bad that I’m not the person you thought I was?”

She cleared her throat and looked up at him. Damn, he really is good-looking! “No, I guess not, it just...” She shook her head, unsure how he would take her next statement, but deciding to just blurt it out anyway. “But it kinda puts a kink in my plans to go slumming.”

He chuckled. “Well, we could. I could trade in these shoes for some raggedy shoes, torn shirt and jeans.” He pulled back for a moment and extended his hand. “Hi, I’m Richie, a struggling, dirt-poor musician. Will play for food.”

Emmie couldn’t help herself; she laughed, and playfully pushed him away, opening up the doors to the balcony and stepping out. She beckoned him to follow her. “Well, you sure don’t act like the guys I’m used to, that’s for sure.” She shook her head and launched into a long-overdue explanation for her actions thus far.

Richie followed her out onto the balcony, a gentle ocean breeze woven around them like a caressing hug. He listened as she rambled on, then said, with a smile, “I happen to like this Emmie very much. And besides, we’re from Jersey; if we dared act like those rich guys, our mom’s would have our asses,” he joked.

The conversation continued as he held out a chair for Emmie, then sat in the chair opposite her, and she in return talked about what she hated and loved about her life. And for the first time Richie enjoyed just having a nice conversation with a woman, rather jumping quickly into bed with them and having a conversation, if at all, afterwards.

Chapter 3

Gia shuffled through her clothes. “What the hell is appropriate for dinner in a guy’s hotel room?” she muttered, tossing yet another outfit on her bed, which already covered with all the rejects. “Em, what do you think?”

Emmie smirked as she reclined in the plush chair, her silky mini-housecoat pulled firmly around her. “The way you two were eyeballing each other, I’d say a box of condoms.”

With an eye-roll, Gia spoke, “That may be for later, but seriously. This is a date and I need something cool to wear. And no, before you say it, I’m not goin’ naked.“ She paused, a devilish grin spread across her face. “Though I might end up that way.”

“You know damn well it will, Gia!” Emmie laughed. “Those guys were SO on the prowl!”

“Yeah, they sure were. Wonder what they do for a living. Male escorts?” Gia giggled as she dropped her towel, sliding on a red lace bra and matching thong. She finally decided on a red, strapless, cling-to-your-body mini-dress. “Here, zip me up, will ya?” she asked after pulling the dress up, bending down to Em, who was still sitting in the armchair.

Emmie raised up and slid Gia’s zipper up. “Going in for the kill tonight, eh?” She nodded appreciatively at the dress. “Actually, I think they’re in shipping or something. While I was having a couple glasses of wine with Richie, he was busy talking to other guys about, well, crate loading times? European legs? And passing through customs? Maybe they ship illegal body parts on the black market.” Emmie laughed. “Seriously, Gia, I don’t know. I didn’t ask.”

Gia joined in her laughter. “Wouldn’t surprise me. After all, we are in Jamaica...or is that another country--or wait, no!--South America is where all that happens.” Gia sat down on the bed, bending down to slide on her four-inch red stillettos, then stood before the mirror to play around with her hair. “What do you think: up or down?” She held up her long, raven tresses close to her head.

“I don’t think it really matters. It’s just gonna be down and messy later, right?” Emmie chuckled. “Leave it down, Gia.”

Gia laughed. “True, so should I bother to even curl it or straighten it?” Gia briefly slipped into her own thoughts. What the hell is it about this guy that I’m making such a fuss?

“Gia, for goodness sakes! Just...leave it! You look gorgeous, okay?” Emmie couldn’t help but laugh. Gia was known to go all out for a nice, good-looking guy, but right now she was acting like a fourteen-year-old with her first secret crush. It was very amusing.

She brushed her long tresses until they shone, then applied a touch of makeup. Her olive skin didn’t require much, or else she ended up looking like an overdone hooker. Then, to finish it off, she put a dab of Chanel behind the ears and at the crevice between her breasts. She twirled around. “How do I look?”

“Stunning, classy, yet totally fuckable.”

Gia smiled for a moment, then grew serious. “Em, you know I’m not really a slut, don’t you?” She turned to face her cousin. She had no clue why she felt the need to ask, but it was like Gia had stepped into the Twilight Zone ever since she’d laid eyes on Jon.

Emmie looked at Gia with unveiled confusion. “Gia, since you share every single little tryst you have with me in blow-by-blow detail, then I think I know. It takes more than four sexual partners in your whole life to be considered a slut, okay?” Why would Gia even ask her that? Of course she knew. She knew each conquest by name, even! It was simply their inside joke. Gia talked big, but it was mostly for show to irritate the pants off of Emmie’s mom, and as bad as it may have seemed, it tickled Emmie to no end to see her mother all uncomfortable, embarrassed, and worked up over stuff that wasn’t even true. She truly did love the woman, but she just needed to relax a bit and not be so damn serious!

“Yeah, I know, just--I can’t--hell, Em. I don’t know why it matters. Nevermind. I’m gonna go have a great time. You are gonna be okay alone, right? ‘Cause I don’t know how late I’ll be, if I come back tonight.” Gia looked at her cousin. “You’ll be okay if I don’t?”

Emmie held up her thick book and donned her reading glasses with a smile. “I’ll be just fine! Me and Prince Charming of fantasy land.” She winked and settled down onto the couch. “Go on with your bad self, girl.”

“Okay, here I go. I’m gonna be at the Hedonism Resort, suite 415, if you need me,” Gia called back as she picked up her purse and traipsed to the door. Then, she turned back to smile at Em. “See you when I get back, whenever that is.” She winked, then left.

Emmie smiled at Gia’s disappearing back, then promptly buried her nose in her book, and was soon lost in another world.

Chapter 2

THWACK!

“Ow!” Emmie exclaimed and sat up, frowning as she rubbed her slightly sunburned stomach. She looked around, confused, for the offending object that had just slapped her a bit too hard in the middle. A volleyball, it was a volleyball. Her eyes traveled past the offending ball and up the beach, landing on a small group of quiet, ragtag-looking young men. Skinny, sweaty, with wild long hair and nearly tattered shorts that had seen a brighter day than this. She groaned as two of the group approached to retrieve their ball.

Gia groaned at the sudden interruption of a very vivid, very hot dream. “Oh Em, did you have to wake me up now?“ She squinted and rolled up to a sitting position. “What’s the deal?“

Just as those words left her mouth, her eyes widened at the sight of the two very hot men fast closing in on them, one of whom quickly grabbed her attention. She slid her sunglasses down to get a better look . “Well, now I see--oh, fuck me, that is fine...“ she muttered, her gaze taking in the Greek God heading her way, from his scraggly blondish-brown hair and nice muscular chest to those barely-there scruffy jean shorts.

Emmie frowned, a pretty pout pulling at her lips. “Those...beasts just beaned me with their balls!”

Gia burst into a fit of giggles. “They could bean me anytime with their balls.“ Then she stood up to greet the men that dared to send Em into a tizzy.

“Ugh, slut!” She smirked with no malice, only amusement, before fixing her face once again into a frown as she looked up at the men now towering over her.

Gia grinned as she stuck out her tongue, watching Em try to keep frowning. “Rather be a slut and satisfied than a sexually-frustrated prude.“

“I’m not a--” she paused as the darker man spoke.

“I think I might make a bad serve more often.“ Richie winked, then tossed Jon a cheeky grin as his gaze travelled over the petite blonde.

Jon grinned back at his buddy, taking in the stunning beauty of the two women as different as day and night. One was a tight, fun-sized little package of tan and blonde fluff, just how Richie liked ‘em, the other, well, she was something! Hair black as a raven’s wing and skin the color of a creamy mocha latte, with legs that just wouldn’t quit. “We’re sorry, ladies,” Jon apologized. “Didn’t mean to disturb your tanning session.“

Gia glanced at her cousin, who had suddenly lost her voice. Biting back a chuckle, she answered for her. “It’s ok, really, it was time for us to turn over anyway.“ Damn if he wasn’t fucking hot. She wished she could see behind those sunglasses to see his eyes and find out if they were anything like the rest of him. She had hit the jackpot.

“Well then--” he peeked over the edge of his sunglasses to toss her a wink-- “glad we could be of service.” With a slightly cocky smirk, he picked up the volley ball and turned to make his way back to the game. Stealing a glance not once, not twice, but three times back at the dark vixen of the beach before calling out to his friend, “Yo man, come on, we gonna finish this or what?”

Richie was almost dumbstruck over this petite blond beauty. “What? Oh yeah! You girls care to join us?“ he asked. “We could use the help kickin’ our road crew’s ass.“ A deep chuckle escaped his lips to match the twinkle in his eyes.

Emmie, who had been sitting quietly studying the tall, dark man still standing there waiting expectantly, surprised not only her cousin but herself when she piped up, “Sure!” and stood, quickly brushing the sand off her legs. She didn’t even bother to look back at Gia as she followed the stranger up the beach.

Gia stood there for a moment, her mouth agape. “What the fuck? Em?” Then, she took off after her cousin. She had thought for sure Em would have said no--a very polite no, but no .

Richie grinned. He couldn’t tell if she came because of who they were, or what, but he was just glad his charm worked on this lil’ darlin’. “Great, darlin’, you’re on our side. You can stand here.“ He reached out and placed her gently beside him.

Emmie smiled and spoke softly, “Yeah, maybe I should cover the big open spot there, hmm?” She moved herself into a better position for the game and wondered at her eagerness to join the group of...well, what were they anyway? Long-haired punk beach bums? And what was it with the dark-haired guy? He was so...tall and so...tanned, and his arms were as big around as her thigh, and his lips, they were so full, and his eyes, they twinkled like fireworks when his mouth pulled up into a teasing grin, and he was just so...well, tall....

Richie bit back a frown of disappointment. He had thought, as quickly as she had said yes, she would have wanted to stand next to him. The puzzled look on her face made him wonder what exactly she was thinking. She really was quite the beauty, her sun-kissed hair pulled into a ponytail, her eyes a striking blue, and that body. She wasn’t voluptuous, but her curves suited her, especially in the black bikini. “Sure, darlin’, seems like you’re right. We do have a big gap there.“

Gia arrived at the volleyball net, shooting her cousin a glance. Who has taken my cousin and what have they done with her? she wondered to herself. Em’s puzzling behavior caused her to completely forget about the Greek god that had just a few moments ago captured her undivided attention. Her hands went to her hips, then she called out to her cousin, “What are you doin’, Em?“

“Uh...” Emmie shrugged. “Playing volleyball?” she answered innocently. “You gonna play or what?”

Gia’s eyes darted around to the group standing there waiting for her answer. “I--sure, where ya want me?“ she asked, then spotted the big area her cousin was covering. “Nevermind, I see.“ She quickly made her way beside Em .

Jon grinned like a wolf as the leggy woman passed by him. He’d known Richie would get them over here. Richie always had more patience to play the charmer than he did. Richie liked a challenge, Jon just liked women, and lots of ‘em. He didn’t have the time to charm them all. He licked his lips as he took in the view of her ass when she dove for the ball. Well, maybe I could spend a little time on this one...with an ass like that...

Gia dove for the ball, her body making full contact with the soft yet very firm sand-covered ground. It had been years since she’d had a good game of volleyball; her aunt didn’t believe girls should play sports. “Might ruin your looks Gia , and you need your looks to get you a good husband someday,” her aunt’s irritating voice filtered through her brain as she sent the ball across the net with almost thundering force.

Jon, Richie, Emmie, and the rest on their side of the net let out a whoop as Gia scored the winning point. Emmie grinned and high-fived her cousin. “Good shot!”

“Damn, it felt good to do that,“ Gia laughed as she returned the high-five, neither girl noticing the attention they were receiving because of the bouncing.

“In your face, boys! Now you got extra duty.“ Richie smirked at the losing side, then turned to the girls. “Thanks, girls, for saving the game for us. My name is Richie, by the way.“ He held out his hand to Em.

“Hey, I’m Emmie.” She reached her hand out to his and watched as hers was swallowed by large, long, slender fingers. “And, uh, no problem.“ She shrugged and smiled. “It was getting boring just laying around with Gia anyway. Kinda glad you hit me now.”

Gia shot Em a look, then gave her the middle-finger salute. “I didn’t hog-tie you and force you to lie on the beach.“

Richie snorted at the two girls’ banter. “Are you two sure you ain’t sisters?“

Emmie laughed. “Nah, not sisters, but still family. You can tell huh?” She grinned at Gia and saluted her back. “You’re number one, Gia!”

“Reminds me of me and my bros here.“ He swung around and pointed to Jon and the others standing nearby.

Gia rolled her eyes. “And what does that make you, Prude?“ A smirk spread across her face as the word she thought Emmie hated floated from her lips.

“You may be number one, Gia, but I’ll always be the princess!” She smiled sweetly.

“You can have that title. No way in hell do I wanna be a princess. I’d rather be--“ Gia stopped short, realizing other ears were listening .

Jon smirked, then raised an eyebrow. “Rather be what?”

“She’d rather be the courtesan.”

Richie spewed his beer as a deep, hearty chuckle escaped his lips. He had thought he’d witnessed everything since hitting the big-time, but this had to take the cake.

Gia’s eyes grew dark, then she spoke with a deceptively sweet smile, “Yeah, better than a sexually-frustrated prude of a princess.“ She snapped, then immediately chastized herself. Why the fuck did I just get angry with Em? She thought to herself as she glanced over at Jon and her eyes softened What is it about this man that has me all twisted in knots . Why did it matter what he thinks of me ?

Emmie didn’t bother to retort. She was amused; Gia was actually getting angry. That didn’t happen very often. Her gaze slid toward the blond guy who was standing a few paces away, leering at Gia as if he wanted to devour her right there. He certainly didn’t seem put off by Emmie’s accusations of sluttiness; he actually seemed to look even more encouraged. Gia should be thanking her.

“Uh, I’m Jon, by the way.” He finally stopped leering long enough to speak, though he wondered why he needed to introduce himself. After all, Bon Jovi was practically a household name and he was the new poster-boy for Sexy Rock Star, even if it did grate on his last nerve.

Gia shook away the anger that had crept up in her unexpectedly and turned to face the blond--Jon--who once again captured her whole attention. And holy hell, that smile caused her knees to go weak. “Hi, my name is Gia. Nice to meet you.” God, how lame is that? She grimaced

“I was thinking: since you girls won the game for us, you gotta drink with us to celebrate.“ Richie smiled.

Emmie contemplated the offer for a moment. Her plans for her first day in Paradise had consisted of lots of sun, a good book, and a nap, not necessarily in that order. She hadn’t really planned on hanging out with guys, or partying. That was more Gia’s style. So was volleyball but that hadn’t stopped her from joining in, so why stop now? She watched Gia’s shocked reaction when she said, “Well, why not? A glass or two of wine certainly wont hurt, will it?”

“Good.“ Richie smiled, held out his arm, and led her to the table where the alcohol was kept.

“What’s your poison?“ he asked while reaching for another beer for himself.

For the second time in one day, Gia’s cousin shocked the hell out of her. “Well, hell!“ she exclaimed. “What is goin’ on with her? She never does this.“

“Does what? Drink?” Jon chuckled as they walked over to the table. He grabbed two frosty beers out of a cooler, cracking off the tops, then handed one out to her. “You seem like a beer and shot kinda girl to me. I hope this is good.”

Gia took a big sip of the chilled beer. “I like anything that has alcohol in it. This is perfect, thanks.“

Jon nodded in appreciation. “My kinda girl all the way.”

Gia flashed a huge smile. “You are quite a charmer too, as your friend was. Hell, I’ve never seen my cousin so bent over a guy before. She usually blows them off,“ she scoffed.

Jon dropped to the sand, sitting Indian-style, and patted the ground beside him. “Well, Richie’s used to getting blown, and getting off, but not getting blown off.” He grinned, then laughed at his own cheap shot.

Gia plopped down beside him, and a burst of laughter escaped her. “Really, how often do you get blown--off, that is.“

Jon grinned, “Honestly? Blown? Often. Off? Hardly ever!” He took a long, hard pull of his beer and fixed his completely serious stare on the girl beside him.

Gia shot him a incredulous look. “Don’t have an ego, do we?” she replied, while taking a huge sip of her beer.

“Nah, not at all, baby, I’m just...” he paused to think of the right words. “Brutally honest?”

“What else are you brutally honest about? Inquiring minds wants to know.” Gia smirked, her eyes scanning over him like an x-ray machine scanning a broken arm.

“Well, for starters, I’d really like to have you for dinner tonight,” he said matter-of-factly. Then, he stopped laughing when he realized how over-the-top that sounded, and said, “I mean, have you OVER for dinner tonight.”

Gia grinned, a naughty twinkle in her emerald green eyes. “Are you sure you don’t mean the first version?” Em always thought Gia was so over-the-top and slutty, but to be honest, she was mostly talk, mainly to rile up her aunt. Oh, by no means was she a virgin, but she didn’t have as many notches on her bedpost as she claimed.

Jon relaxed, leaning back as he laughed a bit, “Well, yeah. I probably did, huh?”

“I don’t know, you tell me; I just met you.” Gia smirked, then moved over onto her side, propping herself on her elbow.

“Yeah, I know we just met, but from what I’ve seen and heard of you--” he smiled, his eyes twinkling devilishly as he peered over the top of his sunglasses at her-- “I think you and I understand each other pretty damn good.” He winked.

“If the understanding means you, me, and a secluded spot, then yes, I believe we understand each other really well.” Gia grinned naughtily. “What happens in Jamaica stays in Jamiaca is my motto.” She paused for a moment, those baby blues distracting her, then continued. “Seriously, though, my mouth tends to get me into trouble, but yes, I would love to have dinner with you.”

Jon gave a hearty laugh at her round-about way of saying yes. Not only was the woman deliciously sexy, but she was funny, mouthy, and hadn’t one time mentioned who he was, the band, or the fame. She sure was one cool kitty, this Gia. “Well, great. I’m in room 415. That’s my private suite, so come as comfortable as you like.” His eyes once again raked over her body teasingly. “You can come just like that, if you like.”

“So we’re dining in, huh? 415. What time is good for you?” Gia asked, biting her bottom lip in anticipation. Her eyes meshed with his. There was something about this Jon that made her want to get to know him better. She really hoped she didn’t come across too brash for him, and couldn’t figure out why it would matter anyway.

“Aw hell, babe, I dunno. Seven sound good?”

“Seven sounds great. I should go get my cousin and head back; we’ve intruded on enough of your time. Thanks for the beer and great game of volleyball. If you need players again, don’t hesitate. We’re staying in the hotel where we were laying out.” Gia smiled , then stood to brush off the sand.

“Yeah, will do.” He stood as well, and fell silent for a moment before surprising even himself by reaching out, cupping the back of her head gently, and dropping an innocent kiss on her cheek. “See ya later, Gia.” He turned on his heel and walked away.