Chapter 21

Emmie sat quietly in the corner of the lounge while Richie and the other guys were on the air in the studio. She waved excitedly as Jon scurried past her and into the glass room, Gia following closely.  She watched as Jon dropped a kiss on Gia’s forehead then turned her towards the couches before disappearing into the studio. “Hey Gia!” She grinned.

Gia momentarily watched Jon til he disappeared then turned to her cousin  “Heya Em, how goes it ? “ she asked taking a seat beside her “ I know we’re late  “ wincing  “But he had to come see me at Antonio’s , wasn’t that just so sweet of him “ 

“Yeah!” Emmie agreed. She fidgeted and got up to pace groaning “God, I’m so bored Gia.” she glanced out the window tapping her foot.

‘“Well they did say there would be parts of the road  that would be ? “ Gia gently reminded her . “It’s better than being at the hotel alone , don’tcha think ? “ 

“Yeah, yeah yeah yeah.” She sighed and paced a bit then groaned. She’d been so damn tired this morning. She was gonna stay back at the hotel and just relax but Richie wanted her to come along. He seemed to want her with him non-stop and normally she wouldn’t have minded, not at all. She loved being with him. She just had such a hard time keeping up with him! Her was like freakin’ superman!  She sat beside Gia for merely a moment the popped back up again to pace. “I hope they aren’t here long.”

Gia watched her friend and chuckled “ Damn girl I thought you had more patience than this , What’s going on ? Other than being bored ? “ she asked “They could be awhile , since Jon was late . I just hope he didn’t get too much shit for it  “ God her pacing was driving her nuts , she stood , gently grasped Em  “Please sit you are making me anxious “ 

“Sorry” Emmie muttered and sat. She drummed her nails on the table beside her then sighed. “I just can’t sit here!I wanna do SOMETHING!” She popped back up. “Let’s go.... um... let’s go for a walk!” 

“Ok we can go for a walk ? What is wrong with you ? I never seen you so edgy ? “ She asked then glanced back to the glass window where the guys were . “But wait a sec , we should leave a message with the secretary so they don’t think we took off for higher ground. " She chuckled then walked over to the young brunette sitting behind the receptionist desk “ Excuse me ma’am could you do us a favor , we’re stepping out for a moment could you give Mr Sambora and Mr Bon Jovi a message just in case we aren’t back when they are finished. Tell them we went for a walk be back shortly “ 

The secretary jotted down the message and watched as the two women rushed out the door. 

Emmie chatted non-stop walking no-where, simply walking and chatting chatting and walking. She shot about 20 questions out at Gia all at once then kept walking and looked at her expectantly for answers.

Gia shot her a puzzled look “ Em , what the fuck you on ? I can’t keep up with the questions you just fired at me ?  “ She struggled to keep up with her stride in the heels she had chosen to wear for lunch today .

“On? huh?” Emmie looked confused, she glanced down at Gia’s heels and shook her head. “Gia haven’t you learned yet, tennis shoes..... comfort!” she admonished her friend playfully.

“I know but I wanted to look nice for Jon, He loves heels “ Gia grinned “Besides didn’t know we were goin’ on a run , thought it was just a walk “ 

Emmie frowned “Were not running.” She shrugged and tried to slow her steps a bit. God Gia was so slow today!

“Yes, we are , hold on “ Gia grunted to a stop , reached down pulled off her shoes  “ There now So where’s the fire? “ 

“What fire?”  Emmie frowned. “So what’s up with Jon? He’s been arguing with the mean little fat guy a lot lately.”

With a roll of her eyes , Gia answered in an irritated tone “ I guess the baldie doesn’t care too much for us being on the road , says we are distracting “ 

Emmie grinned “Well we are!” she laughed. She loved distracting Richie. It was so easy to do! And fun!

“Emmilia You’re high ! “ Gia exclaimed “That’s why your stuck in fast mode “  

Emmie frowned, “Am not.”

“Are too ! What did you take ? “ Gia asked , grabbing her arm to try and slow her down and face her .

“I didn’t take anything.” She lied and willed herself to try to act normal.” Crap I didn’t think she’d notice! “I just drank a whole lot of coffee this morning mmkay? So yeah I’m on overdrive but shit, who cares! Look Gia... it’s a beautiful day and damn it they are STILL in there wasting it away answering silly questions when they should be enjoying the DAY!” Emmie groaned in frustration, “Come on let’s head back maybe they’ll be done soon hmm?” 

Gia watched her cousin in a amused bewilderment , She definitely high on what she wasn’t so sure , and she was gonna be asking Jon what he thought when she was able too . So she just let the subject drop for now  “ Sure lets head back because girl you’re run me into the ground trying to keep up with you “ 

“Wuss” Emmie called over her shoulder laughing as they made their way back to the radio station.

Chapter 20

Gia smiled to the waitress who led her to a small  table in the corner. They arrived in New York the night before, when Jon’s suggested meeting for lunch.

She had always wanted to explore New York and find a good Italian restaurant . It took her some doing , but asking around everyone she spoke too recommended Antonio’s .

Sitting down the waitress took her drink order, which consisted of a coke .Once the waitress walked away , she took in the atmosphere , it was a charming little restaurant with red/white tablecloths on the table , lacy white  curtains on the windows . The aroma of fresh bread and savory garlic filled the room reminding her of her Nana . Whoa it been what three weeks since she thought about her family much less her Nana who she nearly thought about everyday , she shook her head in confusion When had all the resentment died and happiness replaced it within her heart.  Could it be ? Na Jon is different  ,well maybe not so different than she was. Come to think of it .  He doesn’t speak much in feelings but his actions well they speak in volumes.


They had parted ways in Jamaica , she had accepted it was just a fling a glorious one , but a fling never the less. Then what a few weeks later , he showed up whisking her away with him and she had been with him ever since . Now if that that didn’t speak volumes nothin’ would.

In just three short weeks , she realized how much they were truly alike -- not just sex either. He had built walls around himself  as much as she did, very rarely letting anyone in to see the real him but he was letting her in. Should she give him the same in return? She was afraid too , every time she tried to give her heart. First time was when her parents died , though she had been young and didn’t remember them much , she felt abandoned, then she tried to her give her heart to her aunt but all she did was rake her over the coals, no comforting love which she needed , just criticism and hatred for who she was ?  And what she loved about Jon -- wait love did she love him?? He always made her feel special, never asking her to be anything than who she is nothing more , nothing less.  Is that what Love is ? Was Jon perfect ? No but neither was she.  He was cranky , a tad too cocky and spoiled so the fuck what ? IF she wanted perfect she would date one of the many men , her aunt tried to set her up with . Could she , Dare she give her heart to him -- what if he doesn’t feel the same ?

Gia shook her thoughts away , glanced at her watch Jon should be arriving soon , the thought of seeing him again which was ridiculous really when she just saw him this morning but didn’t stop her from having butterflies in her stomach and feeling giddy all over.


Jon practically ran up the street, he didn’t have much time, he was already late but he’d be damned if he left Gia sitting there waiting and waiting. Doc thought he’d lost his fucking head runnin off like he had when he was scheduled to be at a radio station in less than 20 minutes but Jon told him the station would wait, hell anyone would wait, he was the star, they couldn’t start without him anyway. Well that flippant comment got him a glare or three but fuck it he didn’t care he wasn’t the one who scheduled the appearance after he already had plans.

He glance up and almost cheered, Antonio’s, this was the place. Cracking open the door he blinked his eyes a few times to adjust to the dimness inside and then scanned the room. Spotting her he raised a hand in greeting and made his way to her

After a couple refills of her soda , she spotted him , a smile spread on her face and she about jumped out of her chair in giddiness . By all rights she should be angry being kept waiting , but she knew he was busy , work , work , work that is what the man was about and she found that out hard and fast , but the moment she saw his smile and those eyes .  Any thoughts of resentment flew vastly out the window. “Heya baby you made it “ Gia exclaimed


Jon huffed sat down, then slid Gia’s soda nearer to him and took a sip. “Yeah but I can’t stay.” His tone sounded almost like he was pouting. “I gotta be down at some radio station in like,” He paused, looked at his watch and said “ten minutes ago...oops.”

Gia hid a flash of disappointment that threatened to form in  her emerald eyes, “Oh really , I’m just glad you made it “ she answered reaching over taking his hand in hers . Just taking a a few moments for her made her heart swell  , should she dare bring up their ‘relationship’ ? With a silent shake of her head , she decided against it, he couldn’t stay  -- Later yes later she would say something .

He saw her disappointment, felt it even though she tried to hide it. “I’m sorry babe, I really am... I..” He sighed. This was why he didn’t have a relationship. His former long time girlfriend had tried she really had but he hadn’t been the easiest guy to work with on that respect. He knew that now and didn’t blame her one bit for leavin his ass. He knew he had to try harder if he ever expected any woman to take him seriously but it was just so hard sometimes. No, your just a lazy fucker Jon he chided himself. “You uh... you could come with me if ya want.” he offered. He knew Doc and Ritchie B. wouldn’t be happy with a tag along girlfriend but he didn’t care.


Gia’s eyes lit up as she tried to bite back a giddy grin “You sure I won’t be in the way , I don’t want to cause any problems “  She had a feeling from the way Doc though polite treated her and Em , he didn’t like them being around on  the tour at all , In fact at one point she had overheard Doc complaining to Richie Bozzett , these girls are gonna be a distraction the boys don’t need right now ,   She never figured how that could be , she tried to stay out of the spotlight , only a few times daring to step into the meet and greet room , most times she either stayed at the hotel  while he did interviews or such and after the show she remained in the dressing room , unless he asked for her .

Jon snorted, “Yeah,  you’ll probably be in the way, at least according to some people but fuck it I don’t care what they say. I’m the star so fuck em. Besides Emmie’s there I saw her get in the van with Richie when I was leavin to come here so the two of you can hang out together... out of the way.”

“Well , ok then if Em is there , Sure I would love to go “ Gia smiled “Though can we get a bit to eat after “ she waved the waitress for the check , Other time but she make a point in  coming back her thats for sure .

“Absolutely, I haven’t ate yet either,” He took her hand and after tossing some cash on the table for the patient waitress, led her quickly out the door and hailed a cab. He glanced at his watch again. So he was gonna show up 30 minutes late, so what, he had his woman with him.... he was content.

Chapter 19

Emmie woke early, refreshed. She moved quietly around the room. She brewed a steaming pot of rich aromatic coffee and called down to the kitchen ordering a light breakfast for herself and for Richie, whenever he rolled his hung over butt out of bed.  She dug through her suitcase pulling out her journal and a pen. After pouring a cup of coffee for herself, she waited a few minutes longer for the light rap on the door. Bringing the room service breakfast in and settling it on the table she took herself a bagel and some creme cheese. Somehow she managed to juggle everything in her hands and curled up on the couch nibbling, sipping and writing.


The paint shooting through his head grew stronger as he slowly opened his bloodshot eyes and groaned “Why do I do this ? “ He reached for Em only to find an cold empty spot next to him , pushing up on his arms, he peeked around the bedroom , with no sign of her , he reluctantly swung his legs off the bed , they felt like lead and his head pounded .

He trudged out of the bedroom , glanced around til he spotted his lil lady then walked over plopping down beside her , throwing his head back against the sofa , his eyes clinched tightly trying to will the pain to go away.

Emmie quickly shut her journal, setting it aside. “Mornin sleepy head. “ she reached out and touseled his already messy hair.

“What time is it ? “ He asked in a very quiet voice “Don’t do that too rough , it hurts “

Emmie smirked, “Eleven” she said before getting up to pour him a cup of coffee. She walked back over and handed it to him with the simple order. “Drink it”

He took the cup of brew , slowly lifted his head “ Yes ma’am , aren’t we late  for Bus Call ? ‘ he asked confusedly while taking a sip.

She gave him a puzzled look. “No todays and off day, we leave tonight, show again tommorrow.”

“That’s right “ He chuckled ‘You’ll see after a while , you won’t even know where you’re at “

Emmie nodded “You might not be so confused if you didn’t drink so much.” She said softly. Laying a hand gently on his thigh to soften the sting of her words. She knew she shouldn’t say anything but she just couldn’t help herself. He looked so tired this morning, so miserable! The normal mischievous twinkle she loved so much was gone from his eyes.

Richie winced at her tone , almost sounding like his mother talking , he paused before responding reminding himself she was new to this life , he had to show patience “Darlin’ its not the drinking that does it, you will see even without drinks the days , nights , weeks start to run together . “ He would hope she would understand what he meant, he didn’t have  problem with alcohol , Did He ?

She felt his defenses go up, even though his tone remained calm. She felt it in the tenseness of his thigh beneath her hand.”I... I know... I’m sorry.” She tripped over her words. “I just mean, it can’t help much.” She clamped her lips together. Shoot that sounds nagging too that’s not what I want!

Frown lines creased her normally smooth forehead. “What I mean is, it’s got to be even MORE confusing than normal when you wake up feeling like......well,” she paused, profanity still didn’t come easily to her. “Like shit.”  With an almost pained sigh she reached out to stroke his cheek then leaned over and dropped a feather-light kiss where her fingers had just been.

Richie sucked in then let out a deep breath “ I know , I’m sorry warned you I was a bit of a grump in the mornin’ after “ he reached for her hand on his thigh bringing it up to his lips , gently kissing the back of her hand.  “Maybe a good shower will do me good ? Huh? “ he asked “Care to join me ? “ the naughty twinkle was back flashing in his chocolate brown eyes .

Emmie’s eyebrow raised “Join you?”  A slow sexy smile spread over her face as she thought of the possibilities. It seemed a bit wicked. Thought they’d been lovers now for awhile, he’d not introduced her to much  more than slow sensual lovemaking though he had hinted at other things he’d like to teach her. Catching the devilish glint in his eyes she almost purred “You have my attention...”

With a grin, he stood up , reached for her hand and sauntered to the bathroom , Once in there he bent down to turn the water knobs on, checking the temperature  then flicked the shower button to on  .

He then slid out of his shorts , then proceeded to slowly remove her shirt and shorts as well, while taking a moment to nibble behind her ear to her neck.. Stepping into the shower , he held his hand out to help her, The warm beads of water pouring over the both of them.

Emmie chewed her bottom lip as she always did when she was nervous. She looked him up and down slowly. The water beaded over his skin and ran in little rivulets over his shoulders and chest. She reached up and slicked her hands slowly over him stepping closer, her mouth even with his delectable nipples, her tongue darted out, laving up the warm water as her mouth took the tiny nub and rolled it gently.

Richie growled  his legs wobbled from the electricity shooting through just from the mere  touch of her tongue grasping the wall to steady himself then , brought her mouth to meet his , he captured hers with such intensity it almost scared him,  His hands slid down her back pressing her closer into his erection , he rubbed against her nub with a slow and very deliberate pace.

She whimpered in surprise, his lips were so much more demanding this time, his hands less gentle, and though it made her heart skip a beat in panic, she loved it. Her hands traced their way down to his hips and she let them glide over his ass. She squeezed, ever so gently and moaned his name.

His growls becoming more prevalent as his need for her grew , He reached for her hands on him then backed her up to the shower wall, turning her , parting her legs , he entered her with a quick hard thrust , his hand sliding around her waist to keep her from slipping . His thrusts weren’t as gentle as the countless times before , he needed her , wanted her and the darkness in him came out in each and every one of his thrusts .

She gasped in delight, pleasure hotter than the hottest bowels of hell scorched her from the inside out. She was lost in him, clinging to the solid warm, moist flesh as the world around her dissolved. There was nothing only him and the wicked yet wonderful things he was doing to her body.

His grasp grew tighter , as he was reaching his peak,  he leaned forward to whisper in her ear

“You like this baby? Tell Richie what you want.“ Slowing his thrusts then picked them up in a mere few seconds , teasing her , torturing her .  Deep in his mind he thought maybe it had been to soon to show her this side of him , but from the reaction he received in return , brought a smile to his face .

Emmie responded to his command, voicing her need for him, saying deliciously naughty things that even she didn’t know she had the nerve to say. Her nails bit into his flesh as he took her up and over again and again. Her ragged breathing almost a sob of sensation with each thrust.

As soon as Emmie voiced her answer , Richie plunged harder , faster in to her swollen nub , his one hand reaching between her legs , to rub the sensitive spot, he was so close to his peak he needed her there too ,  He soon felt her muscles clinch tightly around him, causing his own climax to kick into gear,  He dipped down biting into her neck as both rode out their orgasms together .

It was a long, long time before Emmie became aware of the things around her: the water now running almost cold, the way the skin of her fingers were pruned. She couldn't even stand on her own. Her legs shook and felt like jello. An overwhelming wave of emotion overtook her. She held onto him tightly, eyes shut, breathing still ragged. She never wanted to let go.

Richie held her for a moment , trying to regain his own bearings , before turning them both facing the shower knobs , while still holding her , he reached down to turn off  slid open the curtain then reached for a couple towels one for which he wrapped her in and another for him . He stepped out of the shower , then helped her out , lifting her up and carried her to the bedroom . “I think we could use a nap don’t you “ He winked as he lied her down gently on the bed.

She simply nodded, not trusting her own voice at the moment. She snuggled herself securely against him and closed her eyes.

Richie wrapped his arm around her , his eyes closing shut  “Sweet Dreams Em darlin’ “ Yes this girl was more than just a fling, she was special -- Yes he could see it now his last thought before sleep over took him

Chapter 18

Gia watched the ciaos that surrounded her , being with them a week, she handled the partying afterwards a bit better than her cousin though it was a bit more than even she expected.  The drinking was norm , hell she went out with her friends tied one on a few times no biggy but it was the girls that surprised her , the term used around the band and crew , vipers wasn’t an understatement . On stage it was expected for Jon to be grappled and almost molested but after the show , they saw her with him and still went at him will full force.  She had to chuckle to herself or the green-eyed monster would show.  One example, they had been kissing their way to his dressing room , leaving a trail of clothes behind them when they stepped into his dressing room to find a girl completely nude , flashing him a come hither look.  Talk about dashing the fire they had built up with cold water that did it .

She returned her thoughts to the present, her eyes scanning the party for Jon , as she took a sip of her 3 or was it 4th maybe 10th glass of wine , she lost count .A smile spread on her face when she spotted Jon through the crowd , standing or half ways anyway in what seemed like a deep conversation with Richie Bozzett , his tour manager.  After a moment of debating whether to walk over to join them , they started to chuckle so she figured it was safe to go over. She stood up and meandered her way over to them .

Jon glanced up and saw Gia making her way unsteadily towards him. Shit! He’d all be forgotten she was there. He cringed a bit at the realization. He hadn’t meant to leave her on her own like that but between the drinks, lack of sleep and still trying to talk business he’d just gotten caught up in it all. He slid his arm around her waist as she came near and dropped a sloppy kiss on her ear “There you are baby, Im so damn sorry I just got busy talkin’” He looked her up and down. “ You ok?”

“Yea I’m good , never better. I’m not interrupting am I ? “ Gia asked as she tried to steady herself, her legs wobbly wishing now she had removed her heels before the party began.

“No, No, of course not, we’re done I think.” He drained the last of his beer and  placed a kiss on her forehead. “I think I've had enough for the night, what about you?”

“Ready whenever you are .” Gia smiled hooking her arm around his  “It’s been awhile since I had that much wine “ she reluctantly admitted a soft giggle escaping her lips as she did so .

Jon smirked “Told ya you’re gonna have to work on that if you’re gonna hang hard core with us babe.”

“Um, its just been a week , baby “ Gia answered , slowly concentrating  each carefully placed step she took when as they walked to the elevator

“Yeah well,” He grinned, half drunk himself. “Gotta be a fast learner round these parts!” he drawled. then laughed at his own silliness.

‘I see that “ Gia leaned against the wall, repetitively pushing the up button ,the doors opened and she wobbly entered the elevator, yanking Jon in with her ,  “You know , those moves you do on stage -- do you know what they do to me ? “ she responded wickedly , pulling him closer to her til their lips were just hair’s breath away. , She licked her lips ,eyeballing them like a hungry lion ready to pounce.

“Oh wow,” he grinned as the elevator doors closed and his woman nearly climbed on him. “No, I don’t. Tell me.”

“Well those little hip-shakes , you know like this “ Gia pulled back a bit , then rotated her hips very sensuously “And this “ She unbuttoned her shirt , just enough for him to get a peek of her clevage. “I so love when you show your chest “ She purred into his ear.

He dipped his head to the cleavage she revealed, “I like it when you show  yours.” He grinned mischievously.

Gia arched an eyebrow “ Um , maybe I should wear more revealing shirts to the shows then ? “ She cupped his head keeping his face buried in  her crevice  “I like those tight leather pants , I just want to grab and squeeze “ she grinned wickedly as her hands crept down to his backside and she gave a squeeze.

“Whooo! Hell yeah baby!” He grinned with wide eyes. She sure was in a mood tonight! She was all mouth and hands and brazenness. “You and alcohol seem to get along really well! I approve!”

“Only time it doesn’t agree with me is the next day “ She winked , her lips found his , wanting to suck the breath from those delicious tasting lips.

“mmmmm, yeah ok...” He mumbled into her mouth as the elevator dinged their arrival on their floor.He hefted her up and carried her, without stumbling to much to the door where he perched her precariously on his popped knee while he fished for the room key in a pocket. Finding the key he somehow managed to unlock the door and with her still held haphazardly in his arms they fell into the door. It banged against the wall and Jon laughed. They slid off the door and he kicked it closed with his heel, all the time his lips never left her mouth and her clothing seemed to find it’s way to the floor.

Gia tugged his shirt off nearly ripping the seams , followed by his jeans, pressing him to the wall , she positioned herself at the perfect angle for nibbling on his chest, she glanced up a wicked grin spread across her face when she licked the hardening nipple all the while her hands worked their way to his erection . “God baby I still taste the sweat on you “ she purred

Jon slowly and slightly unsteadily walked himself out of the jeans she’d tugged down and moved them towards the bed. Backing her knees against the side they fell softly into the mattress. his hardness fitting perfectly into the curve of her hips he shifted teasing her with pressure and kisses.

Her legs wrapped his waist ,pulling him closer , she rubbed her dripping wet core against his hardness “Please, why do you tease me ? “ She pleaded between pants , her arms snaked around his neck urging his mouth to hers.  “You’re evil you know that , I have wanted you all night and you make me wait “ her eyes glazed with a mixture of alcohol and desire , stared him down hungrily.

With a growl he slipped inside her and found heaven. He closed his eyes, his lips nipped at the sensitive skin of her neck and he paced himself just fast enough to make her scream his name uncontrollably but not fast enough to make himself explode quite yet. It was animalistic, ferrel and almost desperate, their lovemaking. Hands gripped skin, slipped off sweat slick bodies and breath mingled in an age-old dance.

Gia’s eyes nearly rolled back each time he hit her most sensitive spot of her core, the one that totally sent her to the stars and back like a rocket flying off into space.  Holy hell she didn’t think each time they had sex it could get any better ,  but she was wrong, dead wrong , especially drunken sex , it was so much more intense , no guarding of emotions , everything let out in the open for the both of them to see and feel .  Her ankles gripped tightly onto his thighs  “I think we -- “ She panted “should -- OH Fuck!!  “ she lost her train of thought as another long overpowering orgasm sent her flying.

Whatever she had been about to say was lost to Jon. The force of her orgasm rocked through him sending him hurdling over the edge much sooner than anticipated but that didn’t matter. Thier quick yet passionate coupling left them both drain and sated, minds glazed with pleasure they clung together as their breathing slowly returned to normal.

Chapter 17

Emmie cracked open her hotel room door, plodded tiredly over to the bed and falling face first into it with a groan. She was exhausted! The pace at which Richie lived while on the road was full throttle with no rest stops in sight! how did he do it day in and day out? She’d been  on the road with him now for a little over a week and she was ready to seriously drop dead in her tracks.

She looked at the clock and sighed. Richie would be out for at least another two or three hours, he always was after a show. Tonight she just couldn’t do it, she had to get some sleep so she’d told him so and excused herself from the party. She knew Gia thought she was crazy leaving him alone there with all those wild women and seedy characters toting their drugs and expensive alcohol. But, Emmie wasn’t worried, as crazy at it seemed she trusted him. She knew, eventually, he’d drag his lanky, half buzzed to hell butt through the door and into bed, slide between the sheets behind her, pull her close in his arms and fall asleep. Pulling herself from the bed, she padded slowly to the bathroom and took a quick shower, then dressed in her pajamas and slipped into bed closing her eyes. She was asleep in minutes.

Richie slowly, quietly opened the door , tiptoeing into the darkened room, his swagger was a bit on the unbalanced side for countless shots and beers . Dropping his key on the table , he started to walk around the table but ran directly into it  his knee connecting with the oak coffee table a slew of curses flew out of his mouth . , bending down to rub it , he almost fell onto the couch .

Emmie startled out of her sleep, wide eyed, blinking rapidly in the dark she saw his shadow. “Richie? “ she asked sleepily “What are ya doin?”

Richie fought to regain his equilibrium , as he stumbled to the bedroom  “The damned coffee table jumped out at me “ He replied in a drunken tone . He flopped down on the bed , tried to reach down to kick of his boots and nearly stumbled over. “The fuckin’ room needs to stop spinnin’ “

She cleared her throat, not wanting to laugh at him but finding it hard to keep a straight face. This was not the only time he’d been this wasted. While he hadn’t drank all that much while in Jamaica, it seemed he always had a drink in his hand out here. “Lay down honey”  she crooned softly, “It’ll stop spinning soon. I think....” she raised an eyebrow when the scent of alcohol infiltrated her nose.He musta drank the bar dry tonight! She climbed out from under the covers and removed his shoes and socks for him, then she unbuttoned his pants for comfort and his shirt she slid off over his head with alot of yanking and struggle but she did manage and finally had him laying down and at least somewhat more comfortable than he was before.

Richie swayed back with a thud , his head hitting the back of the headboard “Fuck!  I’m sorry baby , we had a party can’ ya tell ?  It was one of the road crew’s  birthday and well , just had a few drinks is all “ He continued drunken ramble “ Wish you been there baby . Jesus! Wish the room would stop spinning “

Emmie took a deep breath and sighed, thinking hard before speaking. “I’m sorry, I just needed a little sleep, maybe next time?” She really wished he wouldn’t do this to himself quite so often. Ok, so he wasn’t drunk every second of everyday but still, of the 9 or so days she’d been traveling with him he’d been wasted at least 5 and this time seemed to be the worst. “Or, ya know... maybe next time we could just skip it all together, come back here, just you and me...”

Richie rolled over “Oh fuck , shouldn’t have done that “ he muttered while reaching for her “ Yea we can do that baby . You mad ? Please don’t be bad -- I mean mad. This is what we do “ he chuckled “ C’mere I need you “

She snuggled down next to him, laying her head on his chest. The scent of alcohol mixed with the manly musk that drove her wild. She closed her eyes. She wasn’t mad, not really. Upset, maybe a little. It was more worry than anything. This life was so vastly different than anything she ever imagined. It wasn’t all glitter and gold, not at all. It was fast and harsh and it seemed to be very little reward for alot of hard work. She knew he loved his job, she could see it in his eyes when she watched him on stage, watched him feeding off the energy of the crowd as his fingers flew effortless over the fretboard. All the crap he dealt with, the intrusive interviews, chicks trying to sneak into his hotel room--even with her there some didn’t care they still tried-- little to no sleep day after day, he did it all just to get that 2 and a half hours of stage time and the feedback of cheers from the sold out house. He lived for that little space of time each night. She just didn’t understand why he had to play so hard before and after. “I’m not mad baby, I just... I worry about you.”

“Thanks baby , I maybe you were , when you left . I know I should have came back with you “ Richie grinned sheepishly “Was gonna after one more -- well that led to two more --hell I forget how many more after that “ He snuggled her soft tresses “ You should see the rest , if you think I’m bad “ letting a deep hearty chuckle vibrate near her ear.   He really had hoped she wasn’t angry , it is and was a world that took a bit of getting used too , “No need to worry baby , really “ his hand slowly stroking her arms in a comforting , reassuring matter .

Emmie chuckled and closed her eyes. “If they are worse off than you are, I can’t wait to laugh at em all in the morning.”

“We might find half them passed out everywhere but their rooms . I can say at least I made it to ours “ RIchie laughed , his eyes growing heavier each moment. “The next day isn’t fun so I’m apologizing now if I’m a grump ass “

“It’s ok, I can handle it, just go to sleep now ok? “ she slipped her hand up around his neck and tugged gently on his ear before curling her fingers in his hair.

Richie’s eyes slid shut “You’re so good to me baby , I love -- “ Was the last word he spoke before drifting off into hard slumber , a soft snore echoing the room was all the noise Em heard.

Chapter 16

Emmie looked cautiously around the bus’s interior, it was small, very small. How did five guys live like this?  She peeked into the bunk Richie said was his, the one they’d be sharing.  She smiled, she did like the idea of being snuggled in such close quarters with him. Nice and cozy. Her things and Gia’s were stashed under the bus in the luggage compartments. She’d brought only her airline carry-on bag onto the actual bus with her since Richie said they’d only spend one night sleeping on the bus, tonight then check into a hotel in the morning when they arrived.  She made her way back up to the front lounge where Gia, Jon and Richie were sitting. She was glad it was only the four of them and the bus driver, the  other guys had traveled on ahead to enjoy their two days off while Jon and Richie had chased after them. It was gonna take her some time to get used to this way of living that’s for sure.

She sat beside Richie and leaned her head on his shoulder as she kicked off her shoes and curled her legs under her. She smiled her thanks when he handed her a can of coke.


Gia followed Em onto the bus , she had heard about what these buses had looked like but never thought she would actually get the chance to step on to one much less sleep on one. After all bus travel was beneath them according to Aunt Regina. Jon gave a her a quick tour , considering they had to hit the road according to Paul their bus driver. Gia glanced over the sleeping compartments , awfully small but very snuggly  then wondered  if they had planned on any hanky panky , would there be room enough , chuckling to herself Stop it Gia for fuck’s sake you act like you can’t go a day without sex when you’re around him . Next came the bathroom , which they had been told about the rules , only pissing  can be done on the bus causing Gia to chuckle . Then last was the back of the bus and if she didn’t know better , Jon had a naughty twinkle to his eye when he showed her . It had a L-shape couch, a tv located above the couch speakers to the side , Damn good place for entertaining , a grin spread over her face when she suddenly realized what the naughty twinkle was about.

With the tour over , he led her back to the front lounge , motioned for her to sit while he grabbed two frosty beers out of the fridge and joined her. This was definitely going to be interesting she thought to herself, as she took a sip of her beer.

After some time of silence Emmie finally spoke. “So, 3 more guys? And they won’t mind us being here crowding in?”


Richie slung his arm around her then chuckled “ Na , they will love it watch out for Alec though “ he warned

Gia of course being of the curious nature asked “Why? “

“Al loves women, every-ones women.” Jon laughed.

‘“Oh, and the other’s what do they like “ Gia asked again , taking another swig of her beer , then snuggled closer to Jon , her head on his arm .

Jon thought for a moment then laughed “well, about the same.” He couldn’t help but laugh even more when Richie grinned and agreed with him.

“That really tells us a lot “ Gia teased “ So tell us about the road ? What can we expect ? and be honest “

Richie nearly choked on his beer , shooting Jon a should we or shouldn’t we warn them look .


‘A’right Kidd,  Well ladies where to begin , lets see first its travelling to the show , checkin’ in then we have either fuck off time or we have interviews, photo shoots, then soundcheck then dinner , then the show which is about 2 to 3 hrs long then its party time , we meet the ‘fans’ and the majority of them are diehards , but we do have quite the groupie following , after that we go back to the hotel and get fucked up and fucked or crash depending how tired we are “ Richie rambled on his rockstar persona taking over for a moment .

Emmie merely blinked as she tried to digest his words. She stuttered “fu--Fucked up or... or fucked?” The profanity felt strange on her tongue. She’d never heard him speak so bluntly.

Gia mearly snickered “ Sounds like a night down on the strip-- oh so I heard anyway “

Richie grinned “Sorry darlin’ loads of profanity on a tour , especially from asshole over there “ he pointed to Jon.

“Look who’s talking !” Jon countered.

‘Damn Em, don’tcha just feel the love here “ Gia laughed , as intertwined her arm with his

“ See told ya , The Kidd over there its fuck this fuck that , seems to be his favorite word lately “ Richie flashed a teasing grin towards Gia “I wonder why  “

Emmie sat wide eyed as a doe caught in headlights as the banter continued.

Jon rolled his eyes, “Lately? hell man it’s been my word of choice since I was like, nine. Aint much changed in years, where you been?”

“Do you kiss your Ma with that mouth ? “ RIchie continued to taunt or thats right you kiss Gia with that mouth .

Gia rolled her eyes “OK who turned your crank today ? “

“Jon simply laughed “That’s just Richie... Hey Em... I want you to meet the REAL Richie Sambora....” he looked at Gia and whispered “Poor thing...”

Emmie gave a quiet smile but said nothing. He’d said ‘wild’ and she was finding out he meant it! But still, everything he’d said had been said with a smiling, joking demeanor, absolutely no malice in his tone,  so he really didn’t seem all that different from the Richie she’d come to know in Jamaica.

Gia laughed all the while wondering if Em could really handle the wild side these boys seem to suddenly possessed in a matter of mere moments it seemed. “So when do I get to meet the REAL’ Jon “ she asked.

“You already have babe, “ he laid a hand reassuringly on her leg then grinned mischievously “But you will get to meet my evil alter ego tomorrow night around 9pm.” he winked.



Richie let out a hearty chuckle “ Darlin just you wait , girls are lined up around the block for Kidd here , most half naked too , flashing their tits  and some have been known to flash their southern regions too . ‘ He paused seeing Em’s shocked expression  , then placed his hand over hers, “It's all for show , you girls are who we will go back to the hotel too “

Emmie blinked a few times, “For show...I’m sure it is.”

Jon mumbled to Gia “He’s just diggin himself deeper and deeper aint he?”

“ I do believe he is “ Gia giggled  “Is your evil alter ego this bad ?? “

“Afraid so babe.” he answered honestly.

Richie sobered up “OH baby I didn’t mean -- Hell  I well shit you wanted to know what goes on and well “

Richie’s apology caused Gia to laugh even harder “ He always so -- whats the word “ she leaned in “pussy-whipped?? “

Jon chuckled “No, not at all, that’s why this is so damn funny.”

Emmie chewed her bottom lip a bit and couldn’t help but chuckle just slightly. She looked at Gia, “Toto, I don’t think we’re in Kansas anymore.”

A small chuckle escaped Gia’s lips “No Dorothy I don’t believe we are , and for that I am so happy “  she leaned in those lips enticing her begging her closer , closer til she captured his “ I wanna rock and roll all night and party every day “

Richie leaned in , a mere hair’s breath to Em’s lips “Welcome to the Crazy world called Rock and Roll darlin’