Chapter Forty Eight

Three weeks later…..

Keys in hand, Rachel stood on the porch to wave her sister Robin off and then with a weary sigh turned to slot the now unfamiliar key into the lock of the front door. When she’d gotten the call to say Nick’s father had passed away, returning to California for the funeral was the right thing to do, despite the fact she had despised the man. Leaving her bag at the door, she stepped over the small pile of junk mail and punched the code in to disable the bleeping alarm.

Silence descended around her as she stood in the hallway gazing around at what was once her home, the shadows lurking in the corners like ghosts beckoning from the past. Taking a deep breath she wandered slowly through to the kitchen, pausing at the threshold to trace a finger along the deep etchings carved into the woodwork that had marked the kid’s birthdays every year. She’d gone crazy at the time, thinking Nick was raving mad to vandalize what was their brand new home, but over the years she’d loved watching how excited the kids were to see how tall they’d grown.

Moving through to the kitchen, she pulled open the blinds to let in the late afternoon light, the sparse counter tops devoid of any sign of normal family life. Everything was meticulously clean, the woman she employed to keep an eye on the place did a great job but it was almost sterile looking, no sticky finger marks or crumbs to fuss over. Setting her keys beside the microwave, she wandered on to the family room encased in darkness from the heavy curtains designed to keep sunlight damage to a minimum. She flicked on the soft overhead spotlights set into the beams that ran the length of the ceiling and let her eyes travel from the well-worn leather sofas set in front of the brick fireplace over to the corner where Nick’s overstuffed leather chair still sat with its scuffed Ottoman in place. Rachel stared at it for a moment as images of him sitting in it laughing at her over his newspaper swam before her eyes, she could almost sense him…….

The air around her suddenly became suffocating and she abruptly flicked the light off and watched as the room fell into darkness once more. Turning on her heels, she pulled the door firmly shut and went to retrieve her bag from the front porch. She was starting to think coming here had been a mistake, nothing felt right any more.

Framed photographs of the children floated past her as she took the stairs up to the master bedroom where more ghosts waited to welcome her, the large silver framed wedding picture catching her eye the moment she swung the door in. Despair and anger welled within her, how could she move on...how could she ever be happy again when the past lurked so vividly before her?  Leaving her case in the doorway, she turned and fled back down the staircase before she could change her mind. Back in the kitchen, she scrabbled to find the set of keys she had left hidden in a cupboard and breathed a sigh of relief when her fingers clasped the plastic fob of the car key.

It was time to make some changes.

Hours later and after a delicious dinner at her parent’s home, Rachel finally returned to the house she had once called home, now swathed in darkness by the late hour. Flicking on the porch light and setting the alarm to night mode, she headed back upstairs only pausing to collect her suitcase from the still open door of the master bedroom before she swung the door of Lauren’s room open. Decorated in soft lavender pastels, the walls glowed warmly when she flicked on the bedside lamp and sank down onto the deep duvet that hung neatly over the bed. She had slept in here for many nights after the accident, seeking comfort in clutching the vast array of teddy bears and soft toys that Lauren had collected since she was a toddler. Reaching behind her, Rachel lifted one particular tatty looking brown bear and gently ran her fingers over its frayed ears. He had been a gift when Lauren was born and one that her daughter had adored even as she’d gotten older and moved onto less childish items.

“Hey there old friend.”

She smiled softly as the bear stared silently back up at her, her face reflected in his shiny brown eyes. Brownie had seen it all, maybe it was time for him to see another part of the world and move back East with her. Setting the bear back onto the bed and stifling a yawn, she jumped in surprise as her cell began to vibrate in her pocket with an incoming call. It was after two am and there was only one person she could think of who’d be calling her at this late hour. Smiling happily at the caller id as she pulled it out of her pocket, she pressed the button to accept the call and relaxed back against the headboard.

“Hey….”

“Did I wake you?”

The soft honey tone of Jon’s voice instantly made her relax and she sighed softly as she felt the tension of the past day seep from her body.

“No but I wouldn’t have minded if you did.”

“ I've been lying here for the last two hours and can’t go back asleep, I've come to the conclusion I have too much room in the bed when you’re not here.”

Images of where he was floated through Rachel’s brain and she couldn't help but wish she was there beside him. “Well, you’re doing better than me….. I haven’t been able to wind down at all, still haven’t gone to bed.”

“What’s going on over there, you okay?”

“ I'm just a little wired I guess, it’s been a busy day.”

“Are you alone?”

Rachel rolled her eyes at the insanity of his innocently put question; somehow he could always make her smile without even realising it. “No Einstein, I've got my California boy toy over here with me! Of course I'm alone….”

Grinning widely, she snuggled deeper against the soft duvet. “……wow, when the best part of your day is a middle of the night call from your favourite guitar player that’s really saying something!”

Jon chuckled softly down the line, concern still lining his tired voice.

“Glad to hear it……rough day huh?”

“Mmm…..being back here is…..it feels different….. different than in New Jersey but kinda the same as it felt when I left – suffocating.”

“But you’re doin okay?”

Sighing Rachel paused to think about the emotions she had fought with all day. “Yeah I'm doing okay I guess…….but the truth is this place just doesn't feel like ‘me’ any more.”

“Meaning?”

“There’s a line from an old Rascal Flatt song that just keeps lingering in my head, ‘I never dreamed home would end up where I don’t belong’….. I'm happy to see my family of course but I'm so damn wound up I can’t wait to get out of here. I feel like an outsider, it just isn't home now. I don’t know exactly where I do belong but I know it’s not here.”

“Remember when you told me home is that safe place you land when the world is kicking your ass? Well you do what you gotta do, get outta there and come home…to me…..okay?”

The reassurance in his words flowed like a warm tonic through Rachel’s tired brain – he was right. Letting her eyes drift shut, she kicked off her shoes and nestled comfortably back against the collection of cuddly toys. Sleep was only moments away as she whispered down the phone to him.

“Just as soon as I can……the minute I can…..I’ll be home.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The following morning found Rachel in a much better frame of mind, somehow even the house seemed brighter and more alive as the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafted through from the kitchen. Perched on a bar stool, she reflected on the real reason she was here as she buttered a slice of toast. She enjoyed Nick’s family, they were good people with the exception of his now recently deceased father. Mr Braden had never warmed to her, always making life difficult and going out of his way to be purposely unkind. She never really had figured out what it was about her that had so obviously bothered him but then again she had never cared enough to find out. Nick had been nothing like his father, in looks or personality which she had ceaselessly reminded him of.

Munching on her toast and with a mug of steaming coffee in one hand, she slipped off the stool and padded in her bare feet through to the family room. Entering this time without a shudder of dread, she swept back the heavy curtains and looked around her as the vibrant, early morning sunshine flooded the room. Flecks of dust floated through the air, highlighted in the streams of light that bounced off the trophy cabinet on the far wall. Lauren’s collection of towering cheerleading trophies still stood proudly in place, surrounded by what had once been Tyler’s growing collection of karate medals and awards. Rachel hadn't been too keen on the idea of her little boy bouncing around flinging potentially injury inducing kicks to other kids when he had first started to learn but when she witnessed the obvious talent he had for it, she’d relented and actually quite enjoyed going to watch his matches. Turning her attention to the bookshelves, she let her eyes wander over Nick’s huge selection of music – she was sure they could have bought a holiday home in Hawaii with the amount of money he’d spent on his collection over the years. Chewing the last of the toast, she hunkered down to flick her fingers through the CD cases, mostly bands she’d never heard of but that Nick had spent hours listening to on his headphones in his leather armchair. About to stand up, she froze when her finger landed on one with a name she instantly recognised.

“Well, well!”

Grinning she pulled it from the shelf and popped the disc from its case to set it into the stereo system, shaking her head with a laugh when a familiar voice came pounding out from the speakers.

‘Why you wanna tell me how to live my life…………..and who are you to tell me if it’s black or white…..’

Turning the volume up, she grabbed the cd case and headed back to the kitchen to snap a photo of the cover art with her phone. With an amused smirk she tapped out a message to accompany it and sent it onto Jon.

Look what I found in my CD collection! There’s no getting away from you! Have A Nice Day blaring proudly from my stereo – impressed?

Still grinning she set the phone down and turned to power up her laptop on the kitchen table. One of the advantages to her position in the bank was that so much of her work could be done via the internet from virtually anywhere in the world and given the time difference between the East and West coasts she needed to see what kind of chaos had ensued since business hours began in New York. Before she could get her email opened, her phone bleeped with a text message.

Your taste in music is as impeccable as your taste in men – miss me??

Tongue firmly in cheek, she replied with lightning speed, her fingers dancing over the keys.

I miss some parts of you more than others….. : ) xx

The reply that followed instantly made her snort in amusement, her eyes rolling at the playful banter.

We miss a certain part of YOU too – hurry home before I gotta take matters into my own hands ;)

Gazing out the back window to the back yard where so many happy hours had been spent with her family, Rachel sighed softly. Life had been good here, idyllic in fact but it was time to move onto her new life while it was still waiting for her ……… in New Jersey.

Chapter Forty Seven

Stooping to step down the narrow stairs of the jet, Rachel narrowed her eyes when she saw Phil striding urgently to greet her from Jon’s waiting town car at the side of the apron. She guessed he’d been instructed to get her from the local airfield she’d landed at quicker than Superman himself could have. Greeting her politely, Phil didn't stop for chit chat as he took her bag and quickly ushered her to the still running car, barely leaving time for her to put her seat belt on before he was back behind the steering wheel and gunning the accelerator.

Staring out the window, Rachel sighed heavily. While she was still less than impressed at the way Jon had reacted earlier, the extremely comfortable flight time had allowed her to get her thoughts back in order. When all was said and done, if she had just listened and accepted Jon’s offer in the first place then she wouldn't have created all this extra stress. Tonight was important for him, she’d known that but as usual she’d put her ‘Miss Independent’ head on and bullishly refused any help, not thinking for a moment about the bigger picture. Guilt crept through her mind, like it or not she had to admit that this time he’d been right.

Well ahead of schedule thanks to a speedy flight plan and then Phil’s impressive Formula One driving skills, Jon’s house was a hive of activity when the car rolled up at the front door. Several large catering trucks were parked at the side annex being unloaded by a multitude of white coated attendants rushing frantically back and forth between the kitchen and a billowing catering tent that was emitting the most delicious smells from the open drapes. Pausing at the front door, Rachel gazed in wonder at the lavish flower arrangements artfully arranged in the foyer and the large linen covered table with about a hundred empty champagne flutes neatly aligned in rows. Smirking slightly she suppressed a giggle at the kind of event Jon would organise if Obama actually did become the next President. Movement at the top of the staircase caught her eye, her stomach flipping as she caught sight of Jon hurriedly striding down adjusting the cuff links on his shirt as he went. Dressed to impress in a custom tailored suit with a matching tie and with a new haircut since she had last seen him, he looked jaw droppingly handsome.

The tight lines of stress on his face eased momentarily when their eyes met across the hallway but were just as soon replaced when he took her bags from Phil with a curt nod.

“Thanks Phil, I’ll call if there are any other problems.”

Raising his brows defiantly in Rachel’s direction, he gestured for her to take the stairs ahead of him. Refusing to rise to the bait she smiled sweetly at Phil and thanked him for the ride home before glowering at Jon as she marched up the stairs to the master bedroom. She may have been feeling guilty but her wounded pride was still clamouring to be heard.

Marching into the bedroom without a backwards glance, she swept straight through to the closet slipping her coat off as she went. Every sensory nerve in her body told her Jon was directly behind her, silent and gloriously shameless at his obvious lack of remorse. Turning to face him she glared unflinchingly at him as he set her bags down and when he straightened back up she jabbed one finger menacingly at him.

“Keep in mind that whatever comes out of your mouth next will determine whether or not you get laid tonight!”

Equally as defiant but with the hint of a smug smile creeping across his face, Jon folded his arms and leaned cockily against the wall.

“Oh really?”

“REALLY!” Shooting him a death glare for extra measure, she stooped down beside him to unzip her case. Her heart was hammering loudly in her chest and every fine hair on her body was tingling in the charged atmosphere. She stiffened when she felt his warm breath on the back of her neck, his lips just mere inches away from actually touching her.

“Oh….I’m getting laid tonight, no doubt about that. Probably several times in fact.”

His voice was low and husky, filled with a delicious mix of defiant certainty. “You want me every bit as much as I want you. Your pride may be a little wounded because you know I was right and that…..well, that makes you wrong.  But even with all that going on... you’re soaking wet for me... you're just too stubborn to admit it."

Not trusting herself to look at him, Rachel pulled her dress from the case and slowly straightened up as he hovered beside her, his voice tormenting her as he continued.

“Your real problem is you wouldn't let me help you out because you thought I was trying to take over your life….your business…….and you wanted control…..” 

When he ran a finger lightly down the side of her blouse, just barely tracing the outline of her bust a jolt of electricity scorched through her already quivering body. He was right, she wanted him more desperately than ever but there was no way she was giving him the satisfaction of confirming it.  Pulling away from him, she shook out her dress and laid it over a nearby rack.

“I don’t have time for this, I have to get changed.  I don't want to make anyone LATE!”

With her back turned to him, she began to shimmy out of her blouse and skirt effectively dismissing his initiations. His quiet arrogance infuriated and excited her all at the same time. Still facing away from him she moved around the corner of the closet to pull open the lingerie drawer she had commandeered.  Nestled at the back was a new black and red strapless bra with matching panties that she had purchased in the city a few weeks back. They would match her little black one shoulder dress perfectly, or at least that had been the plan. Easing them on she reflected on how she’d pictured the look on Jon’s face when she teased him with her new purchases – there was no chance that was going to happen now.

Assuming Jon had left her to finish dressing alone, her face registered a quick look of shock when she came back into the main closet area to find him still lounging up against the wall, his hands casually thrust in the pockets of his dress trousers. Naked apart from the new underwear, she could practically feel the heat of his eyes as they travelled the length of her body.

“Nice….”

Still supremely annoyed, Rachel cocked an eyebrow disdainfully at him as he shifted from his position by the wall and moved over to her.

“Glad I've done something that you approve of today!”

He chuckled throatily and smirked, running a slow finger along the low rim of the silk panties. Seeing her so pissed at him was proving to be a huge turn on and he intended to enjoy every second of it.

“Why don’t you skip the panties…..”

In a vain effort to ignore the fluttering of her stomach as it shrank away from the finger that was so insistently dipping inside the silky edge of the panties, Rachel stepped away sharply to pull her dress off the rail.

“That’s completely classless!”

Without even looking at him she could hear the mischievous smile in his voice as she stepped into the dress and pulled the single strap over her right shoulder. He was baiting her like a shark and what was worse was she was being lured in, little by little. When he slid a hand inside the unzipped dress to gently cup her left breast, his breath was warm against her bare neck.

“If you wanted class baby, you should've hung out on Wall Street, not Jersey.”

She sucked in a deep breath when she felt his other hand push up the dress and slide under the front of her panties, his fingers teasing the sensitive skin with lithe little circles. Hook, line and sinker – he’d caught her.

“Jon……..what are you doing? I thought we were in a rush!” Closing her eyes to revel in his touch, she leaned back against his solid frame, her weak protest the only attempt to stop him.

“I told you………lose the panties.”

Shaking her head she squirmed as his fingers dipped lower between her buckling legs.

“I am not attending a political fundraiser with no panties just so you can get your rocks off at the mere thought………” Any furthers words were lost in the deep breath she blew out as the tingling and fluttering inside her intensified from his touch.

“It wasn't a request...and it wasn't for me…….” 

Dipping his head to her neck, Jon let his teeth graze over her quivering skin. 

“…..it’s for you because although I’ll reap the rewards later, by the end of tonight I promise you’ll be more turned on than you've ever been in your life.”

Every fibre of her soul fought against the submissive part of her that was threatening to overcome any willpower she had left as she felt him slide the silk material down past her thighs. When she felt him swipe a finger slowly through her, the game was up. She was soaking wet, the irrefutable evidence coating the second finger he added as he taunted her in a raspy whisper.

“We've been apart all week - I've missed you and you told me earlier you missed me enough to get yourself off last night……….so give it up baby……learn to trust me……. because sometimes………..” 

Jon chuckled softly when he felt her buck against the fingers that he was sliding easily in between her slick folds.

“……..just sometimes I actually know what I'm talking about.”

Shuddering with desire, Rachel twisted against his touch to bring herself face to face with his wicked lips, burying herself against them in one long fiery embrace as her hands yanked the shirt from under the belt of his trousers. Breaking apart just long enough to gaze hungrily at his amused eyes, she mumbled against his skin in between kisses that Jon returned with a fervour equal to her own.

“I may have………” Her fingers worked to loosen his carefully knotted tie and moved down the length of the shirt, popping open buttons as she went. “……been wrong this time……….” 

Gasping for breath as she reached his belt buckle, she looked directly into his swirling blue eyes and watched his pupils respond when she lowered his zipper and grasped none too gently what she’d yearned for from the moment she’d stepped inside the front door.

“……..but I have missed you……so much.”

It was Jon’s turn to suck in a deep breath as she slid to her knees before him and with her dark emerald eyes locked onto his, latched her lips around his thick length and took him into her hot mouth with a ferocity that made him hiss with pleasure. His cock throbbed beyond belief as she snaked her tongue around its girth and sucked hard until she released him with an audible ‘pop’.

“And you thought I wasn't getting laid tonight………..Fuck!” He yelped as her fingers squeezed and released with such pressure at the same time as she took him back in her mouth that the throb of blood pulsing through his solid cock was almost painful.

“Ouch……” Reaching out to the wall to support himself, Jon threw his head back and exhaled a curse as he felt her teeth, purposefully no doubt, scrape lightly against the swollen tip. 

“Play nice with it Rach………or……..Jesus…………”

Fully enjoying being back in control, Rachel watched his face contort in emotions of pleasure and pain combined and she smirked smugly as she rocked back on her heels to release him at the end of a long, hard suck. Gazing up at him innocently, she raised one finger to the edges of her lips to delicately swipe away a drop of pre-cum that she had mercilessly squeezed from him.

“I’ll play with it as often and as rough as I want to Jon…….and there’s not one thing you can do about that!”

He moved with such sudden swiftness that Rachel barely had time to cry out before she found herself  being lifted up onto the edge of the cool, marble topped closet cabinet, his strong arms roughly pushing her dress up under her arms.

“Get rid of that…………this is gonna get messy.” 

The low command that he growled made her insides clench in desire and she dutifully raised her arms to let him toss the dress to the rail behind him. Only her strapless bra remained intact as he cupped the cheeks of her bare ass and lifted her onto him in one brutal but glorious motion. Not caring whether anybody could hear them, Rachel cried out aloud as he filled her completely, her legs impulsively wrapping around his waist to suck him in deeper. Her fingers scrabbled to find a surface to brace against as he rammed her hard against the wall, the hard marble beneath her unyielding to the assault she was delighting in. Again and again the air was forcefully pushed from her lungs with every pump of Jon’s hips as the waves of desire increased with the slick friction between them. Grunting and groaning, his suit jacket and shirt hanging open to reveal the sheen of sweat gathering on his bare chest, Jon dug his fingers into the soft flesh of her ass as he felt her molten walls convulse around him and with a shout he emptied himself deep within her, the satisfying hot rush finally releasing him from the intense throbbing that had nearly made him lose his mind. Gasping he released his hold on her ass and leaned his forehead heavily against her heaving chest, cushioned by the soft swell of her still restrained breasts. Revelling in the glorious aftershocks that were rippling through her body, Rachel closed her eyes and let her head loll back against the wall, deep breaths slowly returning oxygen to her body.

“That…….was…….intense…..”

Jon was silent for a moment as he absorbed the final few satisfying moments before he eased himself upwards and slid out of her. With his forearms resting either side of her thighs, he cocked one eye at her and grinned. “What is it with you and damn walls?”

Rachel snorted in playful disbelief. “ME?? What is it with YOU and walls?  Somehow you always manage to get me up against one!”

Chortling, Jon shook his head as he brushed her lips with a soft kiss before reaching for a towel to clean them up. “Pffh, you practically raped me baby... but we’ll have to go over the play by play later….we need a shower - I’d just as soon not introduce you to the next President with us both reeking of sex!”

Twenty minutes later, Rachel had managed to restore her hair and make up and was just examining herself in the mirror when Jon walked through from the closet tucking the tails of his fresh shirt into his trousers as he grinned at her.

“You look stunning. You've got that ‘freshly fucked’ glow that you wear so well!”

Hitting her hair with one final blast of hair spray as she smiled back at him, Rachel put the canister down and picked up her purse to accompany him down the stairs with just moments to spare before the Obama train rolled in. Standing together at the front door as they prepared to meet and greet their guests, Rachel leaned in to whisper in Jon’s ear.

“By the way.....you were right about the plane…………and about leaving the panties off.”

Welcoming smile fixed firmly on his face, Jon watched as the Obama’s stepped out of their SUV.

“You are not going to distract me from your admittance of being wrong by teasing me about you not wearing panties……but I appreciate the effort all the same.”

When he started to step forward to greet the party, Rachel restrained him lightly with one arm.

“I'm not admitting to being wrong, only that you were right. And I'm not teasing about the panties…check the inside pocket of your jacket.”

When his hand automatically snuck inside the jacket and his fingers felt the silky material, Jon swallowed hard as Rachel smiled sweetly at the approaching people.

“Jesus Lord God………..how fast can I get these people outta my house…….”

Chapter Forty Six

Not content with having spent the weekend together, Jon’s parents had insisted on inviting both of them over for dinner the following evening, much to Jon's annoyance at having less time with Rachel to himself after what had already been a full on few days. Carol had refused to take no for an answer having already invited Tony and Matt along and Jon had known better than to argue especially when Rachel had delightedly accepted the offer for both of them. Pulling up outside the house to pick up his date, Jon grinned to himself and shook his head wryly. It would only be a matter of time before Rachel learned keeping his Mom at arm’s length would be a wise decision!

Letting himself in through the front door for a change, a welcome waft of warm cinnamon lingered in the air of the vast entrance hall. A few weeks back the house had been little more than an empty shell but Rachel had been steadily transforming it into a warm and inviting home, adding decorations and little touches along the way that would make anyone fall in love with it. Sometimes Jon had to remind himself that it was technically on the market, a little fact he preferred not to think about. The possibility of not having his ‘girl next door’ any more was not a pleasant thought.

“Rach?”

Getting no response but hearing a vague thumping coming from upstairs he took the stairs two at a time and found her stomping around her bedroom attempting to wriggle her feet into a pair of soft suede heeled boots and simultaneously talking on her cell on some business matter. Crossing the room he gave her a soft peck on the cheek and kneeled to help her into the boots, chuckling at the grateful smile she gave him before she scurried into the en suite to finish her make-up, still spouting numbers and quotations down the phone. Leaving her to it, Jon headed down to the kitchen to uncork a bottle of wine – sure looked like his girl was in need of a drink.

“I am SO sorry Jon – I’m never late! It drives me crazy!”

Looking up from the newspaper he’d found, Jon grinned and handed her over the wine he’d poured for her. With her hair in a ruffled high pony tail and dressed in skinny jeans with a light blouse he was tempted to call off dinner right there and then – the girl made smart casual look sexy as hell.

“Chill Rach – it’s all good. I’ve already called my folks and told them you got hung up with work and we’ll be there as soon as we can – everything taken care of?”

Taking a healthy swallow of wine Rachel nodded, “Yeah, kinda……..I have to leave tomorrow for Charleston for a few days, one of the regional managers has bailed and left for another bank and this time of year is a nightmare to bring on new help so I’m gonna have to do my job AND his until we can get a suitable replacement.”

Harassed looking, she took another sip of wine and shrugged her shoulders helplessly. “Nothing else we can do unfortunately.”

Jon’s heart sank a little at the thought of her leaving and a slight frown etched his forehead when he thought about what was happening at the end of the week.

“How long will you be gone?”

“I’m taking the two o clock flight back here on Friday so don’t worry – I’ll be back for your fundraiser that evening.”

Jon blew out a quick breath in relief. The fundraiser that was organised to be held at his home on Friday evening was no small affair – Barack Obama was the next man he hoped to see hold the Presidency of the United States and Jon intended to play his part to make that happen. It was going to be a big evening for him and he didn’t want to even contemplate enduring it without Rachel by his side. Shrugging his shoulders he sighed;

“I guess we better get used to you having an insane schedule right along with mine!”

Rachel smirked at the sad little lost boy look he was playing so very well and set her glass down to gently caress his cheek. “Well, I don’t have to be there before Wednesday morning, so I’m taking the last flight tomorrow at four pm which means we’ll have tonight and tomorrow morning together at least.” Leaning closer to him, she teased him with a light kiss on his lips. “C’mon big guy, let’s go have dinner with your family and then we’ll come home and just relax together.”

Returning her kiss, Jon raised his brows hopefully. “Can we relax together naked?”

Giggling, Rachel grabbed her purse and took his hand to begin to drag him toward the front door.

“Naked is EXACTLY what I had in mind so come ON – let’s GO!”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

On the drive over to the Bongiovi Snr’s house, Rachel noticed Jon was unusually quiet with his brows furrowed in thought as they coasted down the road. Reaching over with her hand, she gently squeezed his thigh.

“Penny for them?”

Quiet for  a moment more, Jon pursed his lips together before glancing over at her. “I’ve just been thinking………why don’t you use my plane – you can leave Wednesday instead of Tuesday, that way we’ll have a little more time together and you won’t be so tight on time on Friday getting back for the fundraiser.”

Rachel stared at him in amazement. “As thoughtful as that is Jon, it’s a colossal amount of money – I can fly commercial for a fraction of the cost!”

Undeterred Jon continued to press the issue as he took the turn off that would take them down his parent’s road.

“Yeah I know that but it does give us more time together before you leave and we won’t have to be rushed on Friday…….sometimes you gotta spend money to save time! I’ve got the cost covered so let me do this.”

Tensing a little, Rachel stared out the windscreen at the road ahead of them thinking for a moment how to choose her words. Turning back to him she smiled gratefully.

“I really do appreciate the thought but I’m just not comfortable with it Jon…….just let me take care of my own business arrangements……..okay?”

Shooting her a look of exasperation, Jon slowed the car to give him a little more time before they arrived at the house. “But Rach, I’m only trying to make things easier for you…….for us!”

Annoyed that he wouldn't leave it alone, she began to bristle. “I know that…..I do! Really! But I’ve already got it covered!”

“You’re being stubborn! I can make this a lot less hassle for you!”

Rachel bit back a laugh at his retort. Stubborn? The definition of the word in the dictionary had his name stamped beside it! Reaching across the console, she brushed his cheek tenderly with the back of her hand. “I’m grateful, I really am but I’m a big girl and I can handle my own business affairs. End of discussion.” 

Watching his reaction, she made an attempt to bring some humour into the tensely charged atmosphere within the car. 

“You need to be thinking about all that naked relaxing we’re gonna be doing later instead of my travel arrangements – you can have full control over that!”

Smirking Jon rolled his eyes at her as they pulled into the driveway to reveal his Mom waving excitedly from the open front door. He was pissed Rachel wouldn't play ball but he knew what fights to pick and what to just let drop –  just didn't mean he was any happier about it.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The couple of days Rachel spent in Charleston flew by in a blur of paperwork and endless meetings, leaving no time for any other communication with Jon other than the odd rushed phone call and scattered text messages. Drained and mentally exhausted, she was beginning to realise that she was not particularly enjoying her job at the moment, it was becoming a barrier that kept her from enjoying her life. Ironic really considering she dove into work in the first place to keep her from having any time to think about the past... but now work was in the way of a life that she desperately wanted.

By Friday morning, all business matters had been wrapped up as planned and she arrived at the airport in jubilant form. In just a matter of hours she’d be back in Jersey and home with Jon. Speeding through security, she carried her bags on to save time and arrived at the gate with plenty of time in hand. She smiled politely at the other passengers waiting to board as she flopped down in a seat and pulled out her cell to send a quick message to Jon when her attention was caught by her flight number being called out from the flight attendant behind the boarding gate.

“Ladies and Gentlemen…We regret to inform you that this flight’s status is delayed due to a mechanical issue in Atlanta. The aircraft is now en route and the new departure time is 3.30 pm. Please retain your boarding cards and accept our apologies for any inconvenience caused.”

A rock of lead sank to the pit of Rachel’s stomach as she closed her eyes and swore softly under her breath. It was a conspiracy, karma coming back to bite her in the ass – it had to be. The new flight time would still get her back in just enough time for the fundraiser but it was cutting it fine and she knew Jon was going to be pissed. Hell, she was pissed enough for the both of them. This was a really important night for him and she knew how much he’d been stressing over the organisation of it and now she was about to add one more complication to the mix. Moving to the adjacent empty gate for some privacy, she hit Jon’s number on her cell and with a nervous swallow waited for it to connect.

‘Hey baby! How’s my best girl?’

Cringing, Rachel shifted nervously from one foot to the other and cleared her throat.

“Hey……..I’m afraid I have a tiny bit of bad news……..”

The long drawn out groan that greeted her down the line was dramatic over the soft click of what sounded like a door closing behind him.

‘You started your period, didn’t you?’

Even with the gravity of the situation, she couldn't help but giggle. Maybe this wouldn't be so bad after all. “Would that be the worst case scenario for you right now…..me starting my period?”

‘Yup! I really don’t wanna play in a muddy field tonight because I've got a LOT of playing to do when you get back here – I’m sure you understand my predicament!”

With her voice bright and cheerful, Rachel nodded emphatically;

“Okay well in that case I have GREAT news! No muddy fields, no period! I'm all spiffy for you to play with………happy????”

‘SO happy – Jesus I haven’t had balls this blue since I was a kid! I can’t wait to get you alone and naked, actually screw that – I’m so horny I don’t even need to get you alone, or even completely naked for that matter – just move the panties aside baby and let me have my way!’

Amused by his buoyant and deliciously evil mood, Rachel lowered her voice and glanced furtively around her for any potential eavesdroppers.

“Well then, maybe I’ll just take the panties off and make it that much easier for you stud!”

The husky chuckle down the line made her shiver in anticipation. In reality she’d missed him every bit as much as he apparently had missed her.

‘Ohhhh oh oh oh……..you really ARE the perfect woman……is it just me or are you horny as I am?

 

“Mmmm, probably not……I got desperate enough to take matters into my own hands last night so I’m actually feeling pretty good!” Grinning smugly she pressed the phone closer to her mouth. “Maybe that was something YOU should have resorted to!”

‘And you didn’t CALL me to share in the fun? I should probably put you over my knee and spank your bare bottom for that one but the mere thought’s giving me a woody so come on……..hit me…….what’s your ‘tiny bit of bad news’?’

Taking a deep breath, Rachel screwed her eyes shut and blurted it out.

“My flight has been delayed – mechanical problems with the plane in Atlanta BUT it’s en route now……..”

Nervously she waited for his response down the sudden ominously silent line.

 “…………..Jon...........?”

After what seemed like an eternity, his clipped voice eventually came across the line through obviously gritted teeth.

‘So your plane isn't even on the ground in Charleston?’

“No but it’s in the air and our new departure time is 3.30.”

More silence ensued before he finally erupted.

‘Shit! I suppose NOW you understand why I wanted you on a private plane!’

“Jon it’s fine…….it’s only an hour and a half flight……….”

‘No Rachel…..it ISN'T fine! We’re talking about an event for a man I hope will be the President of the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA! This AIN’T a damn hair appointment you’re running late for so quit acting like that’s all it is……….FUCK!’

More than a little stunned by his reaction but accepting it considering he was actually right, Rachel breathed in deeply and kept her voice calm. “I’ll be in by five and I’ll head straight to your place…….I have my clothes with me so all I have to do is change and if worse comes to worse then I’ll change on the plane – it’ll be fine. Just calm down.”

‘Rachel you don’t know shit about what you’re talking about! It’s FRIDAY! Even if your plane does manage to leave at 3.30 you’re landing about 5pm on a fucking Friday night – Traffic will FUCK-YOU-OVER!’

The busy milling of passengers around her and the general hum and buzz of the busy terminal blurred into insignificance as Rachel stared unseeingly into the crowds, her cell glued to her ear in shock.

“Jon…. I'm sor..”

‘Just STAY there Rachel, I'm gonna see if I can charter something from there and get you here that way….’

Anger began to bubble to the top of Rachel’s shocked mind, her defence mechanism recovering itself from the tantrum it had just been subjected to.

“LISTEN to me Jon! I understand you’re upset……”

Before she could finish, Jon’s pissed off voice cut her off again.

‘I don’t have time to waste on the ‘Don’t you dare talk to me that way’ speech Rachel, save it for later – when you’re actually HERE!   Keep your phone on.’

With that the call was disconnected leaving Rachel reeling in disbelief that he had actually the nerve to hang up on her. She’d known her news wasn't going to go down well but she hadn't expected the complete meltdown that had ensued. Defiantly shoving the cell back in her pocket, she marched over to the seats to collect her bags and headed for the nearest coffee stop to await his lordship’s next instructions. It was a little early for alcohol but the caffeine hit just might prevent her from committing a murder felony when she got back to Jersey.

Chapter Forty Five

The crisp night air was just beginning to settle on the grass tips of the vast lawn as Rachel stood beside Jon watching the tail lights of his parent’s car disappear down the drive way. Slightly later than planned due to hours of fun out on the river and then a late lunch that had delayed the kid’s departure by a few hours but now, well now... it was just them.

Threading his fingers through Rachel’s, Jon blew out a long breath and smiled down at her. “You okay? I did warn you my family was full on!”

Her soft eyes glittered softly back up at him, her voice quiet and content. “ I'm more than okay, being with your family….and your kids? It was amazing……….thank you.”

Jon chuckled softly as he dropped a gentle kiss on her forehead and wrapped his arm around her shoulders. “Thank you for being a part of it, I was worried the kids would scare you away with Steph asking all her questions and then Jesse touting the merits of his Mom this morning…….. Hell I think I might have run away!”

Smiling, Rachel shook her head as she reached up to brush back the strands of caramel hair that flopped over his forehead. “ I'm done running Jon, I've done enough of that to last two lifetimes.”

“I'm glad.” Squeezing her waist gently, Jon turned to guide them both back to the main house when Rachel stopped him with a hopeful smile.

“Hey…….fancy a nightcap? I know a good bar not far from here.”

Grinning, Jon shook his head in wonder at her. “ I've said it before and I’ll say it again……I love the way you think! Let’s go!”

The Shoe Inn that nestled quietly in the corner of the estate came to life at the flick of a few switches with the corner lamps casting a soft glow over the low tables and comfortable armchairs. Sliding in behind the polished wooden bar, Jon slung a towel over his shoulder and cocked his head cheekily at Rachel as she perched herself on a high stool opposite him.

“What’s your pleasure Ma’am? Anything you want – I got!”

“Surprise me…..”

Chortling he leaned across the bar and brushing her lips with a kiss, murmured huskily against her cheek.

“That I can do…..”

Rachel watched as he deftly flicked two heavy tumbler glasses from the shelf behind the bar and with a dramatic flourish that made her giggle, poured a generous measure of an amber liquid into each one.

“Cognac huh? Anyone would think you were trying to get me drunk to take advantage…”

Lifting the glass to chink it noisily against his, Rachel grinned coyly at him before taking a sip of the brandy that warmed its own path down her throat. Jon eyed her over his own glass for a moment before taking a healthy swallow and topping both their drinks up moved around the bar to sidle up against her stool.

“Oh I think I already have the advantage…..”

The sweet odour of brandy tinged breath filled Rachel’s senses as Jon dipped his head to deliver a kiss filled with the promise of more. She let the fingers of her right hand curl around the base of his head, running through the soft strands of hair to gently pull him closer. A yearning to be close to him flooded her veins with a quiet desperation. While it had been an enjoyable weekend she was tired of sharing.

“You okay babe?” Breaking apart Jon looked deep into her eyes, his lips murmuring just inches away. “I know being around my family can’t be easy, wanna talk about it?”

The concern that swirled in his eyes touched a chord deep within her, here was a man that was trying everything he knew to make it all okay, to make her feel a part of his life, a part of his family. She’d never been good at talking, something she knew she had to improve if this was to work.

“Jon…….” Reaching up to gently brush her fingers against the slight growth of stubble that grazed his chin, Rachel smiled softly.

“……Each step on this journey with you has been amazing and this weekend? It was…….special but the flip side is that the deeper I get into your life, it stirs something in me that I thought was long gone.”

Pausing, she dropped her gaze from him for a moment. The air around them was quiet, not even a ticking clock to count the seconds that slowly clicked by until she lifted her face to look back at him with an honesty that laid her bare.

“I still know how to be a person that cares Jon, I've become so focused on forgetting that……..well I guess I’d forgotten how to remember.”

Jon stared at her for a moment, his breath hitched on her every word. The fact that she trusted him so completely was almost frightening, he wasn't sure if it was a credit he deserved or should be cast into hell for.

Clearing his throat he threw her a lopsided grin, “Hey……did you see what just happened there? You didn't shut me down – that’s progress! We are definitely making progress!”

With a shake of her head, Rachel laughed lightly and sat back to take another sip of the cognac that glided it’s way all too easily down her throat. The mere proximity of Jon’s body nestled comfortably against the bar beside her was almost too much to bear, he was intoxicating.

“Jon, there’s something about this that still scares me………” Taking a deep breath she set her glass back on the counter top and stared down at the engrained wood surface, her voice quiet and low.

“…….these past few days I've realised something else……….. I'm starting to feel an actual need for you….not so much as in a ‘together’ sense…..”

Jon watched as she struggled with the words, a light crimson blush colouring her cheeks highlighted by the warm glow of the overhead bar lights. He knew what she was trying to say, he felt it too. Setting his glass down on the bar he reached over to brush back the tendrils of blonde hair that were drifting across her forehead. The way he’d watched Rachel interact with his family this weekend had all but melted his heart, she just seemed to fit in seamlessly.

The depths of her eyes that flickered up to meet his gaze glistened when he gently traced the outline of her chin with his finger to draw her attention.  

“I hear you babe……..”

The heat behind the kiss that followed affirmed his words, their lips meshed tightly against one another, tasting and releasing the pent up need both of them felt for the other. Drinks forgotten, Jon hitched both of Rachel’s legs around his hips and with her hands burrowed deep in his hair, lifted her straight off the stool and over to a soft lounger in front of the empty fireplace. Their insistent lips never parted for a second, the deep cushions under Rachel’s light frame supporting them as they became entwined in one another. Blood heavy with desire pumped through Rachel’s veins as she pushed the light jacket off Jon’s shoulders and moved quickly to curl her fingers under the shirt that concealed him from her. Breaking apart for a moment, Jon rose above her and in one swift motion flicked the offending clothing over his head and dropped it to the floor before crashing down once more on her lips.

“Are you fond of this shirt?” Smirking slightly he eyed Rachel in amusement as his fingers paused at the buttons of her light blouse. Gasping for breath, she stared confusedly at him.

“Not particularly……..why?”

“Good!” The wicked delight that danced in Jon’s eyes heightened when he tugged hard at the top of the blouse causing the buttons to fly off into the dimness of the bar around them. Surprise soon switched back to desire when Rachel felt his teeth nip gently on her hardened nipples only barely encased by the cups of her laced edged bra. Biting her lower lip to stifle the moan that escaped her lungs, her stomach involuntarily arched up to grind against the soft fur of his chest while her fingers wildly tugged at the roots of his hair as he persisted in torturing her with his teeth. The only distraction from the almost painful sensation in her aching nipples was the wet heat she could feel seeping from between her legs, a throbbing that was emanating from deep within her.

“Enough Jon……I need you……” She almost growled at him in her longing to feel him inside her, the pent up carnal frustration from the weekend spent together but at the same time apart set to tear her in two.

“Damn right you do.” Finally lifting his head from her chest, Jon smirked down at her before sitting back on his heels to none too gently wrench the fitted denims from her hips, the harsh sound of the fly unzipping cutting through the still air. Chest heaving, Rachel grabbed onto his belt to lever herself up just enough to wriggle out of the panties that went with her jeans in Jon’s fists and with an eagerness to match his, deftly flicked open the buckle to reveal the hardened bulge that she so longed for. She took a moment to gaze at it before curling the corners of her lips in a smug smile.

“Apparently I'm not the only one in need here…….”

“That’s quite enough talk from you little girl!” Unabashed Jon half stood to shuck his own pants, kicking off his boots in the process and quickly lowering himself back to between her quivering legs where he knew his prize was awaiting. Any further smart comments Rachel may have been about to retort with flew out of her head the moment his tongue quickly darted between her folds, the instant release buckling her legs as she flooded his mouth with juices.

“ Ohhhhhh………”

Almost as soon as the pressure within her released, she could feel it building again with an even stronger intensity as Jon probed deeper and quicker, his hot breath against her tender flesh making her hum with pleasure. Gasping for air she arched against him, her head thrashing against the plush cushions until she could stand no more. Heart hammering, she reached to pull him to her, their lips once again colliding with bruising force as she tasted herself on his tongue, his fingers exploring and teasing where his mouth had left off between her legs. The throbbing had been replaced by a crashing of lustful waves, receding and building with every long stroke of his fingers deep within her walls. With her hair fisted in Jon’s free hand, she was powerless to resist even if she had wanted to, never before had they consumed one another like this, with a pure and unadulterated carnal pleasure.

Seconds later, Jon’s lips hovered above her eyes and after dropping a soft kiss on her sweat streaked forehead, he locked eye contact with her and buried himself to the hilt in one fluid motion. Rachel’s eyes widened in pleasure as he stretched her to breaking point, her core muscles greedily accepting the welcome intrusion. He filled her completely, again and again until the cords in his neck began to strain and with a long groan they fell over the abyss together into a deep hole of sated bliss.

Laying together on the scattered cushions, Jon dropped his head to lean against Rachel’s neck as they both fought to recapture their breath while their hearts thumped together in unison. With a trembling hand, Rachel softly swept back the damp tendrils of his hair and gently caressed his cheek with her finger.

“This is what gets me Jon….it only seems to get better…..every time is better than the time before….how is that even possible?”

Jon listened to the wonder in her quiet voice as he felt his heart rate slowly return to normal. She was right, she got him – every damn time. He wanted her more now than the first night they had spent together, he needed her like he needed the air around him to breathe. Carefully he sat himself upright and slouched back against the cushions pulling her up into his arms at the same time. Gazing down at her he smiled softly and ran a thumb along the line of her chin tilting her eyes up to meet him.

“It’s possible Rach because I keep finding you more irresistible than ever and I know you feel that – it’s time we both admit it…..”

Gazing into his blue eyes filled with nothing but affection and sincerity and wrapped safe and secure against his bare chest, Rachel finally gave in and allowed herself to finally believe the fantasy she has so often indulged in since her life had been torn apart……..she was falling in love……… they were falling in love.

Chapter Forty Four

It was a packed SUV that swung into Rachel’s driveway a prompt thirty minutes later, a slightly frazzled looking Jon grinning out from behind the steering wheel, the tired circles underneath his eyes cementing the fact his kids were in town. 

Jumping into the middle seat beside Romeo who was happily beaming at her from his booster seat, Rachel greeted everyone with a wave and a good morning.

“All set?”

Jon glanced in the rear view mirror to check she was good to go before swinging the Suburban back down the drive. Sitting on the other side of Romeo, Carol smiled across at Rachel from behind her dark sunglasses.

“Beautiful morning isn’t it? They’ll be in short supply soon I’d imagine!”

Rachel nodded in agreement and smiled wistfully out the window at the clear blue sky. “Yes, it won’t be long before we’re wrapped up in winter coats! I’ll have to go elsewhere to get my sunshine fix!”

“John and myself will be heading for our home in Florida soon…” Carol nodded towards Jon’s father seated in the front passenger seat beside his son. “….our brittle, old bones can’t cope with these East Coast winters anymore!”

“How lovely! I must admit I’m not exactly relishing the thought of my first winter over here! I’m willing to bet I’ll be checking out winter vacation spots before Thanksgiving even!”

“It does get cold out here.” Carol confirmed Rachel’s fears as Jon turned them onto the main road into town. “Where’s your favourite place to go?”

“Hawaii!” Rachel replied without hesitation, her smile bright as flashbacks of the idyllic islands floated through her memory. “We used to vacation there a lot……”

Jesse’s young voice popped up from the seat behind them, interrupting the conversation. “My Mom says Hawaii is overrated…….we always go to St. Barts or somewhere cool like that.”

Detecting some possible tension in the thirteen year old, Rachel twisted in her seat to smile encouragingly at his undeniably defiant face. “Wow, I've never been to St. Barts but I've heard it’s beautiful! What’s your favourite thing to do there?”

Caught off guard, the teenager thought for a second before he stared right back at her with crystal blue eyes identical to his father’s. “My Mom and I do loads of cool stuff……like going to the beach and snorkelling or getting some jet skis.”

Eyes wide with wonder, Rachel played right along him. “Really? I've never been on a jet ski – you’re lucky to have such a cool Mom, I don't think my kids ever thought I was that cool!”

Jesse nodded, his cool stare never faltering. “Yeah she’s the best. She’s really famous in martial arts you know?”

“Martial arts huh? I tried that for a few months but I couldn't handle it, it’s really hard – your Mom must be in great shape!”

“Yeah….” His young face softened somewhat at the interest Rachel was displaying and he smiled proudly at her. “…….she’s really strong too – she’s helping me condition for football.”

Still twisted in her seat to face him, Rachel pointed to her shoulder. “You know I've been trying to get my arms in better shape but nothing seems to work – what do you think I should try?”

“You have to lift weights!” Jesse offered one of his slender yet toned arms and pointed confidently to his flexed bicep. “Girls think they can't lift weights because they'll get muscular but if you use three pound weights then you'll tone without getting big muscles like a man.”

“Thanks Jesse, I’ll try that out!” Smiling appreciatively at him, Rachel turned back to face forward just as Jon pulled the car into the parking lot of the diner. She hadn't expected his kids to welcome her with open arms and if that was as bad as it was gonna get, well she could easily deal with that. She knew it couldn't be easy on them seeing another woman in a relationship with their father.

With everyone out of the car, Jon shouldered Romeo and grabbed Jake’s hand to walk him across the parking lot. With a little grin he winked at Rachel beside him and murmured quietly under his breath, “Nicely done back there.”

Winking back, Rachel shook her head and laughed lightly. She'd been pretty sure the adults in the car had been listening to every word of her conversation with Jesse and she wouldn't have expected any less. When all was said and done, she was still an intruder into their family circle albeit a welcome one.

After a calorie laden but delicious breakfast in what Rachel had to agree with Jon on being possibly the greasiest diner she'd ever eaten in, everybody returned to the Bongiovi house with the kids intent on enjoying their last day in Jersey. Jon’s parents were dropping them back to Dorothea’s place in the city that evening on their way home before they all headed back to their respective schools in the morning. After a vote decided on spending the last of the warm weather down on the water, Rachel and Carol teamed together to pack a picnic for the boat. 

Ushering the kids out in front of him, Jon turned to smirk at the sight of their two heads bent over a wicker hamper, both deep in conversation as to what snacks the kids might prefer later on.

“Um….Rachel? You've seen my dock…….right?!”

Rachel’s head snapped up and her eyes narrowed at his mischief laden question, the summer tan hiding the deep blush that heated her face at the memory of the first evening she had spent with him on that particular dock. Responding dryly, she glowered at him.

“Yes Jon, I've seen your dock!”

Shoving his sunglasses back up his nose, Jon grinned widely. “Great! Just wanted to make sure you could find your way down there……you know, in case you couldn't remember……”

Carol, her hands full of snack bars, glanced up at him in annoyance. “For heaven’s sake Jon! It’s in plain sight! She can’t miss it!”

As Rachel raised her brows in a silent smirk, Jon gave up and backed out the door laughing leaving his mother frowning after him. Turning to Rachel completely unaware of Jon’s cryptic message, she rolled her eyes and shook her head.

“I like to think my son is an intelligent man but sometimes.....”

Laughing at the older woman’s frustration. Rachel finished packing the hamper with her in an easy silence. The relationship Jon enjoyed with his parents was obviously a solid one based on nurturing family values, something that she'd come to realise mattered more than anything. Filing away a mental note to check in with her own parents before the day ended, she was about to haul the heavy basket off the counter when Jesse came barrelling through the kitchen carrying a selection of impressive looking water guns. Pulling up short when he spotted Rachel attempting to lift the basket, he thrust the guns into the eagerly waiting arms of Jake following close behind.

“I’ll take that down for you…… I'm stronger.”

Rachel momentarily blinked at him in surprise before standing back to let the teenager effortlessly swing the basket down, his toned arm muscles flexing easily with the load. Grinning at her, Jesse shrugged cheekily before marching toward the French doors, Jake happily running on ahead wielding the assortment of water pistols.  

“You better stick to the weights I was telling you about!”

Rachel suppressed the urge to laugh out loud at the teenager’s cockiness; he was a mini version of his father through and through. Thanking him she turned back to see if Carol was ready to leave only to find her watching the little exchange with a less than subtle amusement. 

“I think you have an admirer my dear!” 

Chuckling loudly, Carol folded a picnic blanket over her arm and winked up at Rachel with a warm smile before walking outside. Pausing for a moment Rachel suppressed the feeling of a sort of triumph from bursting onto her face, she had been stressing about how Jon’s family would take to her. It seemed as if by some miracle that she was being offered a glimpse of a second chance at family life....

Chapter Forty Three

“Jon told me about your family Rachel…………I’m sorry if I upset you with my questions last night.”

Rachel shook her head and smiled warmly at Carol, seated on a lounger beside her. The morning tennis game had gone off without a hitch with John Sr proving to be an impressive partner as they had successfully beaten Jon and Stephanie in straight sets. After agreeing to set up something more regular for the future, everybody had returned to the Bongiovi house for some fun by the pool where Jon’s boys were currently shrieking in delight as he repeatedly dunked them underwater off his shoulders.

“There’s nothing to be sorry for Carol, they were logical questions but I just didn’t want to be a downer or risk upsetting the boys……”

Sitting up on a lounger beside her grandmother, Stephanie hugged her knees to her chest and looked curiously across at Rachel, her young voice cautious but respectful.

“If you don’t mind me asking Rachel but….how old was your daughter?”

“She wasn’t quite fifteen at the time Stephanie.....,” Rachel’s heart skipped a beat at the question but her voice belied any emotion. “.....and my son was ten.”

“What were their names?”

Escaping the frenzied activities of his sons for a few moments’ respite, Jon pulled himself out of the pool just in time to hear Rachel answer the question.

“Lauren and Tyler.”

Surprised to hear her talking so freely about a subject that had been so taboo a while back, Jon was about to swiftly change the subject until Stephanie asked interestedly, “Do you have any pictures?”

He watched in amazement as without hesitation Rachel bent down to retrieve her phone from her bag.

“Sure, right here, I copied a lot of photos onto my phone before I left California.”

Stephanie eagerly reached across Carol to take the phone Rachel offered her, flicking her father an annoyed glance when he settled himself on her lounger, showering her in drops of pool water in the process.

“Seriously Dad??”

Rachel watched in amusement as Jon flicked his hair back and playfully wrapped a wet arm around his daughter. “Chill out honey, I just wanna see too…….that okay Rach?” 

When she nodded, Jon dropped his attention to the phone, squinting against the sunlight that bounced off the screen as Stephanie scrolled through the pictures. Images of a Rachel who existed before he had ever met her filled his eyes, a laughing and relaxed woman posing on a veranda with her family, a glistening blue ocean behind them, a dark haired man smiling at the camera with his arm draped around her neck and two sandy haired kids sitting to either side of them. Another of the same man, although younger still obviously Nick with what looked to be his baby son nestled in his arms and followed by a shot of Rachel struggling to hold onto their toddler daughter as the child reached up to grab an ornament off an enormous Christmas tree. 

Stephanie oohed and gushed over the cute pictures while Jon silently watched the images roll by, a twinge of sadness combined with a stab of jealousy filling his belly as he was transported into what had once obviously been a very happy life. He cursed himself silently for allowing himself to feel somewhat threatened by a man who was no longer even in this world but the last picture stirred something inside his gut that previously he’d only felt with Dorothea – possessiveness. It was an old one, Nick had scraggy ruffed up hair and Rachel was rocking a perm that would have challenged Lita Ford’s back in the day and both had New Year’s 1988 cone hats nestled on top of their heads. But it was the look on Rachel’s face as she stared up at Nick that felt like a punch to the stomach, there was nothing posed about the picture, it was purely intimate and he almost felt like a jerk for looking through the window of her past.

When he glanced back up at Rachel, the shadowed pain that still lurked in her eyes snapped him back to reality, he had no business feeling anything other than love for her. Everybody was entitled to a past and she had lost more than anyone should have to endure. With a grin, he shook his head as Stephanie handed back the phone, “Way to rock that eighties hair babe! I think your hair was bigger than my whole band’s put together!”

“Enough of the hair jokes Jon, don’t forget who created them!” John Snr piped up from the table where he’d been flicking through a newspaper. “If it hadn’t been for me…….”

“Yeah Pop, I know I know, I’d be flipping burgers right now!” Grinning at his father, Jon got up to grab a towel from the pile beside Rachel’s lounger. Bending down he murmured in her ear, “You have good taste in men baby, he was a good looking guy - almost as pretty as me!”

With her phone safely stored away, any signs of trepidation vanished from Rachel’s eyes as she laughed down at him. “And he was every bit as humble as you too!” 

Chuckling Jon threw the towel around his shoulders and dipped his lips to hers for a soft kiss before standing back up, aware of the sideways looks he was getting from the rest of the family. 

“But I’m willing to bet I’m a better kisser…..” 

With a laugh he sauntered off to grab a drink leaving a slightly blushing Rachel grinning after him as she lay back to pick up her book. It seemed she was well and truly ‘out’ to the family now…..

~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Good morning sunshine!”

The sound of Jon’s familiar voice washed away the last dregs of the fitful sleep Rachel had succumbed to after she had crawled into bed alone the previous night. She wasn’t sure whether she just missed the feeling of his frame beside her or if it was the dreams that had kept her mind flipping in a panicked turmoil but she felt as if she’d just spent the night sleeping on rocks. Blearily blinking at the bedroom around her she grasped the phone tighter against the pillow and mumbled into the speaker.

“Hey…..what time is it?”

“A little after nine…….you okay?” 

The concern that filled his voice made her smile; even over a phone line he was able to read her like a book.

“Yeah…….I just didn’t sleep great that’s all…..everything okay with you guys over there?”

A throaty chuckle filled the line, she could almost see the painful grimace she knew he was making.

“Oh peachy, I had two kids bouncing on my bed before the damn birds were even awake……..”

Rachel chuckled softly, a fleeting reminder of early morning wake up calls with her own kids filling her memory. As she silently reminisced Jon gently cleared his throat;

“You know Rach, you can tell me if you need a break from my parents and the kids, I’ll understand….we can be a lot to take in……”

“No!” She shook her head anxiously down the phone; “I mean, I’m fine Jon honestly – your family are great! Yesterday was really fun, I enjoyed myself……”

“Yeah? Well then think you can handle going out to breakfast with this group of crazies? Jake wants waffles, Romeo wants pancakes, Jesse wants eggs and Steph wants French toast……..need I go on?”

“No Alice today huh?”

“Nope, I must’ve been outta my mind to give her the weekend off! There’s a great diner down the road, the most greasy spoon you’ve ever seen – whaddya say?”

“I say give me time for a quick shower and I’m good to go!”

“You’d be faster if I came over there and helped………”

Grinning in delight, Rachel shook her head at his wicked deference as she slid out from beneath the crumpled bed sheets. “I think we both know it won’t be faster if you help! Pick me up in a half hour?”

“Jesus…….the things I could do to you in those thirty minutes baby…..”

“You’re a complete pervert! See you in a bit.” Rolling her eyes at his evil chuckle, she ended the call and got stiffly to her feet. The exertions of yesterday’s tennis match obviously hadn’t gone unnoticed by her muscles and she groaned as she padded her way barefoot to the shower. The needles of hot water pierced their way invitingly under her skin, soothing and relaxing as she let the water wash away the fading remnants of her nightmares. She needed to move on, for Jon’s sake if not for her own. The way he picked up on her every uncertainty was uncanny and somewhat undeserved in Rachel’s eyes. She’d seen how carefully he’d watched over her yesterday, his blue eyes clouding with worry whenever he’d caught her gazing at his kids, ready to tone things down if he thought it was all getting too much for her. What he didn’t realise though was how much happiness being around his family brought her, they had been nothing but welcoming, even Jon’s mother and by all accounts she was normally a tough nut to crack. Rinsing the shampoo from her hair, she tipped her head back and faced the warm cascade of water for one more blissful moment before knocking the shower off and stepping out, ready to gladly face the chaos that was Jon's family one more time.

Chapter Forty Two

Rachel took a deep breath as she punched in the code to the keypad on Jon’s side gate and balancing a large box in her arms sidled through. Jon’s plan had come to fruition and the Bongiovi clan were gathered at the Navesink house in force, the sound of kid's laughter floating across the still evening air to where she picked her way carefully up the path. A bundle of nerves unfurled in her stomach as she got closer and caught sight of several figures on the lawn tossing a football back and forth between who she presumed to be Jon’s sons. Just as she began to feel as if she was intruding on a private event, Jon let out a shout and came jogging down the path in her direction, a small sandy haired boy bouncing in his arms.

“Hey look buddy, it’s the dessert lady!” Winking at the look of wonder on the boy’s face, Jon chuckled at the size of the box Rachel was carrying. “Jesus! What’s in there I wonder?”

“Pies….lots of pies!” Rachel smiled nervously as Jon set his son down in order to relieve her of the heavy box. “Apple, pecan, chocolate and lemon….hopefully something for everyone.”

Jon crouched down to take a sneak peek under the lid, nudging the little boy who was shyly sticking to his side. “Look Romeo, chocolate! Smells good huh?” Laughing at his shy smile, Jon fondly ruffled the bangs of his forehead and straightened back up to Rachel. “How did you find time for all this today?”

“That – I can do in my sleep!” Looking past him up to where the group of people gathered at the side of the house were watching them curiously, Rachel laughed lightly. “Let’s see how my people skills are with this bunch of crazy Italians you call your family!”

“You’ll be just fine! C’mon buddy, let’s go show everyone all the nice pies Rachel brought us.”

A little while later after all the introductions had been made, Rachel was sitting politely beside Jon’s father when Jon turned to her with a wink. “Rachel, what are you drinking? Club soda or tequila??”

The faked innocence behind his smile made Rachel bite her tongue to avoid firing back a smart answer. Jon knew full well what tequila did to her, he’d experienced it several times and tonight was not a suitable venue! Before she could reply, Jon’s younger brother Matt piped up from across the table.

“Rachel! You’re a tequila drinker? My kinda girl! Line up the shots!”

Laughing, Rachel turned to glower at Jon. “I think I’ll leave the tequila for another time, thanks. I’m sure there’s a bottle of wine opened somewhere around here….”

Chuckling, Jon shook his head at her and muttered under his breath as he turned away with a sly grin. “Coward.”

With everyone gathered around the table enjoying a dinner of steaks and ribs for the adults and hamburgers for the kids, conversation centred around the family catching up on affairs with each other since they had last met. When Jon became engrossed at the other end of the table in talks with his other brother Tony about the oncoming disaster with the Soul, Rachel politely chatted with his parents, both seemingly genuinely interested in getting to know her. Jon’s father, a handsome man with a warm smile and eyes that sparkled like his son’s listened encouragingly while Rachel explained how her job had brought her to the East Coast and what it now entailed. She warmed to the older gentleman instantly, his casual and relaxed manner making conversation easy. Carol, Jon’s mother, a dignified blonde lady, sat quietly by her husband’s side chewing small bites of her meal thoughtfully as Rachel answered John Snr’s questions about the work she was having done on the house across the road. When she paused to take a drink of wine, Carol seized her opportunity.

“Tell us about your family Rachel, do you have any children?”

Not wishing to dampen the mood or make anyone uncomfortable, Rachel put her glass back down and shook her head with a smile. “I have a niece and nephew living in California, my sister’s children that I still spoil although they’re all grown up now and my parents still live at home.”

Seemingly satisfied, Carol smiled back and nodded, glancing over affectionately at her grandchildren who were busily devouring a mountain of French fries between them. “It is nice to be able to spoil them, heaven knows I do it enough! When I get to see them of course.” 

Her last comment was loud enough for Jon’s head to snap up in their direction and removing himself from his seat beside Tony, he came to stand behind Rachel, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder as he gave his mother a pointed look. “Mom, you see them more than I do so quit looking for the sympathy vote! Anyway you can’t handle Jake and Romey for longer than a half hour – admit it!”

Unable to refute her son’s claim, Carol shrugged and laughed him off. “Well it would be nice to see you more as well but you’re always so busy with this event and that event……..”

Leaning over Rachel’s shoulder to top up her wine, Jon snorted in amusement. “Mom, your social calendar is fuller than mine, I’m surprised your ‘girls’ even let you off cards this evening.” Grinning cheekily at her, he turned his attention to his father. “Hey Pop, you should see the tennis court over at Rachel’s place, it’s all just been totally redone – state of the art stuff.”

John Snr’s eyes lit up and he leaned eagerly toward Rachel. “Do you play Rachel?”

Grateful for Jon’s intervention in steering the conversation away from her family, Rachel smiled back at his father and nodded. “Not as much now as I’d like but yes, I used to play quite a bit back in California.”

“Well how about a game sometime? I’m always on the lookout for a new doubles partner!”

When Rachel readily agreed, Jon snagged his daughter as she walked by with a tray of Rachel’s pies divided out for dessert. “Hey Steph, whaddya say we join forces and whip your grandpa and Rachel here at a little game of tennis over at her place tomorrow?”

Smiling somewhat reservedly at Rachel, the pretty teenager nodded casually as she handed everyone a plate with an assortment of small slices of pie on them. “Sure Dad, sounds like fun…..”

Beaming, John Snr clapped his hands together enthusiastically and winked up at his granddaughter, “That’s settled then, tomorrow morning it is!”

When Stephanie politely excuse herself from the adults, Rachel glanced at her watch surprised to see how quick the evening had flown by. Any earlier apprehension about meeting Jon’s family had long since gone such was the welcome they had all given her but not wishing to overstay or intrude on what seemed like precious family time, she declined on dessert and stood to wish everyone goodnight.

“Thank you all for a wonderful evening but I better get an early night so I can be up early to polish up my serve!” Winking at John Snr, Rachel smiled warmly. “I wouldn’t want to let you down! Goodnight everyone.”

Choruses of farewells rang out from around the table with Carol lifting a hand to clasp Rachel’s in a soft shake as she rose from her seat. “Lovely to meet you Rachel, I’m sure I’ll see you again. I’d best start getting these kids ready for bed, goodnight.”

“I’ll give you a hand in a minute Mom, I’ll just walk Rachel home first.” Jon glanced back over his shoulder at his mother as he followed Rachel down the path, ignoring the smirks his brothers were throwing at him. Catching up to her side, he draped his arm casually around her shoulders and pulled her close.

“That wasn’t so bad huh?”

Aware that they were still in full view of the group, Rachel glanced up at him in surprise. “Are you sure you’re comfortable with this little PDA? Your kids and everybody else are bound to be watching!”

Chuckling Jon smirked down at her. “Lucky they can’t read my mind then!” Leaning in to drop a quick kiss against her temple, he squeezed her gently with his arm. “I thought things went pretty well tonight…..how about you?”

Enjoying the feel of his arm around her, Rachel sighed happily. “Yeah, I enjoyed myself……” Glancing up as they followed the curve of the path, she looked at him worriedly. “Your Mom asked me if I had children…….I didn’t really want to get into the story of my family like that in front of everyone and especially the kids……..Maybe you can explain the situation to your parents sometime so they’ll understand why I wasn’t completely truthful?”

Stopping to punch the numbers into the gate keypad, Jon stood back to let her walk through before him. “I will, I probably should’ve told them more about us before they had a chance to grill you about every tiny detail of your life…….but well I wasn’t sure how you felt about all that and I never thought about it coming up tonight…….” With an apologetic grimace he replaced an arm around her shoulder as they began the short walk up the road. “…….my bad.”

“It’s okay Jon, really, its fine.” With a tired smile to reassure him, Rachel stifled the beginnings of a yawn. Enjoyable or not it had been a stressful evening. Reaching the gates at the base of the driveway, she turned and wrapped her arms around Jon’s waist. “Thank you for walking me home.”

There was more than a hint of merriment in his eyes as he drew her close for their first proper kiss all day. “You’re not gonna invite me in?”

“NuUH! I refuse to behave like a horny teenager and have a quickie while your parents and kids wait for you to get back – they’re probably already timing you!”

The hard bulge rubbing against the thin fabric of Rachel’s light summer dress provided the answer to the frustration she could see mounting in Jon’s eyes as he whined, “What am I supposed to do with this?”

Giggling she reached up for a long kiss, purposefully nipping the soft flesh of his lower lip as she unwrapped herself from his arms and sauntered up the driveway. “Call me later and I’ll talk you through it……”

“Count on that phone call little girl, I’m gonna hold you to that.”

Standing with his hands shoved into the pockets of his jeans, Jon grinned in amusement as he watched her disappear into the shadows of the house. He had watched her carefully all evening, ready to jump to the rescue in case his family had proved too much but he had worried needlessly. In fact he was beginning to doubt there was any situation on the planet she couldn’t handle…….apart from the hard one between his legs that was. Reluctantly giving up on that particular quest for the moment, he turned to amble back down the road where the inevitable interrogation from his mother no doubt awaited. There was no chance of him dodging that bullet.