Chapter 93

Brianna was sitting at her desk in the office sorting through Jon's mail and going over the reports from Craig Spencer about the Soul's preparation for the upcoming season. When her phone rang, she answered without looking at the display. "Brianna Prentiss."

"Yes, Ms. Prentiss," a nasal voice responded. "There is a famous rock star who will be arriving at JFK tomorrow on the two-thirty flight from Los Angeles, who will require transportation to his lodging in New Jersey, and I was told that you could provide said transportation."

Brianna grinned. She'd missed the silliness of the band members. "Didn't the rock star ask his assistant to arrange for said transportation?"

"Oh no. This cannot be handled by a mere assistant. It must be handled by you."

"Um.....but I am a mere assistant."

"No, my dear, you are so much more. You are the assistant, girlfriend and Boo Boo tamer, and as such are the only one qualified to drive the rock star."

"Oh, I think, since the rock star is so important, it would be better to hire a town car or maybe a limo for him, with a professional driver."

"I'm sorry Ms. Prentiss, that just won't do. I'm afraid I must insist that you pick up the rock star and drive him yourself."

"And why must it be me?" Richie was a lot like Jake - he never ceased to amaze her with the workings of his mind.

"Because he is very particular about who drives him. It's a long drive and he prefers someone pleasant and attractive to spend that time with." He paused and switched to his normal voice. "And you can fill me in on what's happening at Casa Bongiovi......and with your love life."

And that would be the real reason. "Richie, did anyone ever tell you you're worse than a teenage girl?"

"Darlin' when you live in a town whose life blood is gossip, you can't help it if some rubs off. I just want to make sure my friends are happy." He smirked to himself. "Besides, Ava's already shown me the tabloid pictures of you two. I'm surprised there hasn't been more."

"We haven't gone out that much, and when it's music related no one thinks anything of me being with him."

"Unless you're playing tonsil hockey on stage."

Brianna chuckled. "Well, it was New Year's."

"What's your excuse the other three hundred and sixty-four days of the year?"

She shrugged. "Because I can."

A deep chuckle reverberated down the phone line. "I guess that's as good a reason as any." He sobered. "But seriously, Bri, can you pick me up and take me to Red Bank? I need you to catch me up on how everyone's doing before I get there. When Jon called and asked me to come, all he said was that everyone was doing fine and he was ready to do some writing."

"You don't believe him?"

"This is Jon we're talking about remember. He'd say he was fine if he was bleeding to death."

"It's only a flesh wound." Brianna quipped in her best attempt at a British accent.

There was a split second of silence, then Richie burst out laughing. "I'm not dead yet!" He laughed again. "Ah Sunshine, Tony named you well. So, what do you say? Can you give me a lift?"

Brianna heaved a heavy sigh. "I suppose I can rearrange my schedule."

"Atta girl! You're the best!"

"Uh huh."

Richie grinned. "See you tomorrow Sunshine!"

The next day, Brianna pulled into a spot in front of the arrivals area and scanned the area for Richie. A small crowd and a few camera flashes told her he was close. When his distinctive hat became visible, she made her way towards him.

A gap in the crowd revealed his face and she grinned. "Hey handsome, can I give you a lift?"

"Hey baby!" He set down his bags to wrap her in a bear hug, lifting her clear off her feet. "You can take me anywhere!"

Ignoring the tabloid reporters and tourists, they walked to her car. When he opened the back to put his luggage in, Richie saw her suitcase and slanted her a look. "Had to rearrange your schedule to pick me up huh? Liar! Fess up Sunshine. You were planning on going to Jersey for the weekend long before I called for a ride, weren't you."

Brianna's lips twitched. "Maybe."

"Jon's right. You're a brat."

She just laughed and moved to stand beside the driver's door.

Richie opened the passenger door and waved her towards it. "I can drive."

She raised a brow. "Don't trust my driving?"

"That's not it. When I asked you to pick me up I didn't mean for you to be my chauffeur."

"Uh huh."

"Really!" He searched for a way out of the hole he found himself in. "Does Jon let you drive him around?"

She had to think for a moment. "No, but then we've always been in his car or had a driver." When he just looked at her expectantly, she rolled her eyes. "Get in the car Rich. I promise I'll get you to Red Bank in one piece." She climbed in and put the key in the ignition.

Richie sighed and did as he was instructed.

He waited until they'd left the city and the traffic had eased before turning the conversation to a serious subject. "So tell me how everyone's really doing?"

"Actually they're doing well. The kids still have a few bad days now and then, but they're healing and are happy most days."

"And Jon? Is he 'healing and happy' most days?"

"I think so. He's a little overwhelmed at being a single parent sometimes, but he's really trying. He's even doing a lot of Romeo's potty training."

"Really?" Richie smiled. "Can't wait to see that!" He studied her profile. "And how are things going with the two of you?"

"Pretty good."

"Why do I hear a 'but' in there?"

She shrugged. "We don't get a lot of time alone together. Usually just the time between when the kids go to bed and when we do or the nights he comes into the city and stays at my place. He doesn't like to leave the kids very often." Realizing how her words sounded, she grimaced. "Don't get me wrong, I love the kids and I don't begrudge them his time. I just wish we had a little more time for ourselves."

"You need to get away for a few days just the two of you."

Brianna snorted. "I wish. But I don't see it happening. Aside from the kids, he's getting back into work mode. I think this is more than just a songwriting session for something to do. I think he's ready to put out an album, and maybe even a tour. I don't foresee much time for a holiday."

"Well, on the bright side, you'll be able to get some quality alone time during the tour. Just think about it! Hotels and room service, so no cooking or cleaning. Beautiful scenery...."

"Reporters, technical glitches, tired, moody boss, babysitting."

Richie frowned. "Babysitting? There won't be kids on tour."

"Pfft! Only the biggest kids of all!" She gave him a pointed look.

"You must be talking about Lemma, not me."

"Uh huh."

Richie just grinned.

The buzz of the gate opening could barely be heard over the pandemonium created by four kids who had been cooped up indoors too long.

"BIANNA'S HERE!" Jake announced when her car neared the house.

"BINA! YAY! BINA!"

"Thank God!" Jon muttered, heading for the front door.

"Uncle Mookie's here too!"

"Bonus!" Kicking into his boots, Jon reached for his coat just as the door opened.

"Bianna!"

"Hi buddy!" She started to bend down to hug him, but was stopped by his father.

Jon framed her face with his hands and captured her lips in a fierce kiss. "I am so glad to see you! Rich! Drop your shit and let's go out to the studio."

"Um, yeah....okay." Richie eyed the rambunctious kids, set down his suitcase picked up his guitar, waved at the kids and followed his host out the door.

Stunned, both by his intense greeting and his quick departure, Brianna watched them walk down the driveway. "Did you at least start something for dinner?!"

"Sorry honey!"

"Pfft!" She snorted. "Sorry my ass!" Closing the door, she sighed and looked at the kids. Any ideas for supper?"

"I took a lasagna out of the freezer and there's lettuce for a salad." Stephanie offered, raising her voice to be heard over Jake and Romeo' s screeches and yells as they chased each other around the foyer.

Brianna winced at the boys' volume. Walking over to Stephanie, she gave her a hug. "I love you!"

Stephanie laughed and hugged her back. "I love you too."

Jesse just rolled his eyes.

"Bianna come play with me!"

"No! Bina pay wif ME!"

"No!Me!"

"Boys!" Brianna interrupted. "I've got a better idea. Get your coats and boots on." She frowned. "Maybe your snow suits would be better."

"Where we going?" Jake wanted to know.

"Outside."

"What to do?"

"We're going to play in the snow. Maybe build a snowman, maybe a fort." Burn off some of your built up energy!

"YAAAAY!!!"

The next few minutes were pure chaos as preparations were made to brave the cold outdoors. Stephanie and Jesse decided they could use some fresh air too and joined them.

They moved around to the back of the house where there was plenty of room for whatever they wanted to build. There was no shortage of snow, but Brianna just prayed it would pack enough to be good building material.

Mother Nature was on her side. It was perfect packing snow. The boys immediately started rolling balls, Jesse and Stephanie helping with the big ones and lifting the smaller ones to form, not just a snowman, but a whole snow family.

Jesse looked over to where Brianna was standing eyeing the studio. He walked over to join her. "They'll come back for dinner."

"I know. Richie hasn't eaten since whatever they gave him on the plane. His hollow leg must be just about empty."

Jesse laughed. "So why are you staring at the studio?"

"Do you think we could build a wall here in front of that open area of the driveway?"

"I guess. What for?"

"To shield us from return fire." 

He stared at her for a moment before her meaning sank in. He grinned, the twinkle in his blues eyes matching hers. "That will work. We should build one over on the other side too in case they circle around the front of the house and try to out flank us."

"Good idea! Steph! Boys! Come here."

"What?" Jake asked as he approached them.

"We need to form a battle plan."

"Who we fighting?"

"Daddy and Uncle Mookie."

Jake looked confused, but Stephanie whooped. "Snowball fight!"

Brianna nodded. "We need to build up our defences......and prepare our ammunition."

Chapter 92

"Dad, are you going to Uncle Southside's gig tonight?" Stephanie asked.

"Yes."

"Is Bri going with you?"

"Yes."

"Daddy." Romeo tried to interrupt. 

"Who's coming to stay with us?" While she was old enough to look after her brothers, Stephanie knew he liked to have another adult 'keep her company'. Of course, finding someone available on New Year's Eve wouldn't be easy.

"Grandma and Grandpa."

"Daddy." Romeo tried again.

"They aren't going to a party?"

"No. Grandpa's got a cold and doesn't feel like going out."

"Daddy."

"Can we stay up and watch the ball drop?" Jesse wanted to know.

"You'll have to ask Grandma and Grandpa. That's up to them." His father answered.

The gate buzzed.

"Daddy!" 

"Bianna's here!" Jake announced from his viewpoint out the window beside the front door.

"Why didn't she just stay here after Christmas instead of driving back again?" Jesse wondered.

"Because she went to see her parents for a couple days."

"Why?" 

Even though Jesse had muttered to himself, his father heard him - and understood the sentiment.

"Necessary evil." Stephanie answered her brother.

"DADDY!"

"Yes Romeo, what is it?" Exasperated, Jon turned to his youngest to find him trying to undo his pants with one hand and holding his crotch with the other.

"Pee!"

"Hang on!" Jon scooped him up and ran for the bathroom, passing Brianna as she entered the house. "Hi."

"Hi." Brianna answered, watching them rush down the hallway. Opening the closet to hang up her coat she looked up when Stephanie stepped into the foyer. She gestured with her chin down the hallway. "Hey. What's that all about?"

"Hmm? Oh. Romeo was trying to tell Dad he needed to pee, but Dad wasn't listening. Hope they made it in time."

Brianna smirked. "Me too."

Stephanie looked at Brianna's suitcase. "Why don't you leave a bunch of clothes here instead of having to cart stuff back and forth all the time?"

"Because then I might not have what I need in New York when I need it."

"That's an easy fix."

"Yeah? How? Buy two of everything?"

"No, move in here. Permanently"

Stunned speechless, Brianna's mouth dropped open. She just stared at the teenager who smirked and started for the kitchen. "Want some coffee? Or maybe a glass of wine?"

"Better make it a bottle." Brianna muttered.

"Bina!" Romeo ran in and hugged her legs.

"Hi little man. Did you make it to the potty in time?"

"Yup!" He nodded proudly.

"Good boy!" She hugged him back and sent Jon an amused glance. "Close call?"

His lips twisted into a wry smiled. "Yes, and I know, bad Daddy for not paying closer attention."

She leaned over to kiss him. "Yes, but you're really doing a great job."

"Don't sound so surprised."

"Well, I'm well aware that you can be a bit of a prima donna, but I never pictured you as a domestic diva."

His brows snapped together. "Hey! I'm not a prima donna!"

"Of course not dear." She patted his cheek and held out her hand to Romeo. "Come on little man, let's go get a snack."

"Okay!"

Brianna had barely stepped backstage at the Count Basie Theatre when she found herself engulfed. "Sweetness!

"Dammit Southside, how many times do I have to tell you to keep your hands off my girlfriend!"

John looked down at Brianna. "What's got his panties in a bunch?"

She shrugged. "Who knows?"

"Ah." John winked at her. "Prima donna strikes again."

Choking back a laugh, Brianna waited for the explosion.

"I am not a fucking prima donna!" Jon glared at both of them.

"Of course you're not honey." Brianna soothed, rubbing his arm.

"He just likes things the way he likes them, when he wants them." Southside agreed.

In response, he got a Jersey salute.

At the movement, light glinted off the metal hanging around Jon's neck.

"Hey what's that hanging around your neck Sweetbutt? Sweetness put a leash on you?"

Jon's expression softened. "She can tie be up anytime she wants." He ignored the speculative look his words brought to Brianna's face and lifted the charms for easier viewing.  "The necklace has charms with each of my kids names and birth dates."

"Nice." He winked at Brianna. "Better hang on to this one Sweetbutt. She actually understands you."

Pleasure and pride fought for control of Jon's expression. "I know."

The show was a lot of fun. Southside was in his usual good humour, full of crazy antics. He even got Jon laughing.

From her spot in the wings, Brianna laughed, her heart swelling at seeing Jon so relaxed and happy. It had been a long time. He would always grieve Dorothea's loss, but his mourning was  done. He was ready to live again. And for him living meant performing - his lifeblood. Her mind started racing with thoughts of everything that would have to be done to prepare for a tour. Of course they needed an album firstL but with Richie arriving in a few days, that should take care of that. Maybe she should alert Paul that a tour would be sooner rather than later.

"FOUR.....THREE....TWO......ONE.....HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!"

Loud cheers from the audience jerked Brianna's attention back to her surroundings. She hadn't realized how late it had gotten. Confetti and ribbon rained down on the stage and the audience. She didn't see Jon approach, but he was suddenly there, pulling her into his arms, his mouth capturing hers.

When he lifted his head, he grinned at her. "Happy New Year Golden Eyes."

"Happy New Year Blue Eyes."

Suddenly they were pulled apart and Brianna found herself spun across the stage. Southside dipped her and kissed her.

"Happy New Year Sweetness." Standing her upright, he grabbed the microphone. "I love New Year's Eve, especially when Sweetbutt brings such beautiful women!"

The audience laughed, especially when Jon stomped over and pulled her back to his side.

"I told you before, get your own, old man, this one's mine!"

Brianna laughed and patted his chest reassuringly.

The familiar strains of Auld Lang Syne filled the theatre. Brianna was shocked when Jon shifted his hold on her, wrapped his arms around her and began to dance. "Are you alright?"

"Great. Why?"

"You're dancing."

"Mmhmmm. Good excuse to hold you in public."

"Ah." She grinned and kissed him.

When they got back to the house, they found everyone asleep. John Sr, and Carol were staying over rather than driving home so late. Still a little wired from the show, they checked on the kids and settled into the living room in front of the fire for their habitual nightcap.

When Brianna snuggled closer to him and leaned her head on his shoulder, Jon kissed the top of her head. "Tired?"

"Happy." I could stay here forever.

"Me too." I'd like her to stay here forever.

Maybe Stephanie is right.

Chapter 91

The sun had barely risen enough to lighten the sky the next morning when Brianna was awakened by a small hand patting her face.

"Bina? You wake? Bina? Bina?"

"Mmmm?" She answered groggily.

"You wake? BINA!"

Eyes flying open, she jerked awake. "What? Romeo? What's the matter?"

"Santa comed!"

"Yeah? How do you know?"

He held up a brightly wrapped box with a corner of the paper torn off. "Pesents!"

"Is that yours?" She sat up to take a closer look.

"Yep!"

"How do you know it's yours?" She tried to see the tag to prepare for who was going to be upset, but he kept waving it around.

He ripped off more paper. "It a ball!"

She picked up the paper he threw aside. "Yes, but I think that ball is for Copper."

"Oh." He frowned.

"And I think Jake's going to be upset that you opened his gift."

Romeo thought for a moment, then held out the half opened package to her. "You fix? Pease?"

Brianna smiled and kissed his head. "Yes, I think I can fix it."

He jumped off the bed and ran to the door. "Bina come on! It Missmas!"

"I'm coming." So much for getting a decent sleep. Climbing out of bed, she pulled on her robe and followed the excited little boy into the hallway. 

Romeo stopped in front of his father's door and tried to turn the handle, but it was too high for him to get a good grip on yet. Brianna always left hers open a bit so that she could hear the kids and Romeo could get to her if he needed to. "Daddy wake?"

The devil inside Brianna rose up. "I don't know. Maybe you should go see." Reaching over his head, she opened Jon's door enough to let Romeo in. After all, fair was fair. He'd kept her up well after midnight putting all the gifts from Santa under the tree and then just relaxing together in front of the fire. Neither one had wanted to go upstairs to their lonely beds. But she was paying for the late night now......and misery loved company.

"Daddy, Daddy, wake up! It Missmas! Daddy wake up!"

"I'm awake, I'm awake." Jon answered, rubbing a hand over his face. A thought struck and he stared at his youngest. "How did you get in here Little Man? Did you open the door?"

"No, Bina opened it."

"Of course she did." Brat!

Brianna grinned at his disgruntled tone and continued down the hallway towards the stairs in search of wrapping paper and tape. But first, she needed coffee.

The living room was a sea of wrapping paper, ribbon and torn boxes. The noise level was just below deafening. But at least it kept Brianna awake.

Jon handed her a refilled cup of coffee as he sat down beside her on the loveseat to watch the madness. He sighed and ran a hand over his face. "You just had to send the human alarm clock in to wake me this morning, didn't you?"

Brianna smirked. "If I had to be up, so did you. After all, it was your fault I got so little sleep last night."

"More like it was your fault I didn't get any sleep at all!" He reached down to straighten his pile of gifts.

"My fault? How could it be my fault? I wasn't anywhere near you when we went to bed."

"Exactly!"

Brianna chuckled at his grumbled complaint.

"It's not funny." He insisted.

"Maybe not, but you are."

"Brat!"

"Hey Dad, here's one for you. From Santa." Jesse held up a small package and tossed to his father.

"Santa?" Jon read the tag and shot Brianna a questioning look. She just shrugged. Ripping off the paper, he opened the box....and froze. "Oh wow."

Lifting out the necklace, he set the box aside. The chain was nothing special, just a back drop to the focal point - the charms. The heaviest was a heart wrapped in vines. The other four were flat silver heart shaped discs engraved with each child's name on one side and their birth dates on the other. If the vine symbolized his children, it was definitely accurate. His kids absolutely held his heart. Eyes stinging, throat aching with emotion, his finger rubbed each charm.

Brianna watched his face closely while she sipped her coffee. The necklace had been an impulse buy, but she'd known as soon as she'd seen it, it was perfect for him. "Do you like it?"

"Daddy what is it? Let's see."

Jon held up the necklace and they all gathered around for a closer look.

"Oh! The charms have our names and birth dates." Stephanie noted.

"Uh huh." Jon nodded. "Now even when I'm on the road you'll always be with me." Seeing the look on his daughter's face, his heart swelled. He knew exactly who had given him the necklace: the one who understood a child's need - especially a daughter's - to be loved and appreciated by their father.

Turning to Brianna, he cupped her face in his hands and kissed her rather fiercely. Breaking the kiss, he leaned his forehead against hers. "I love it. Thank you."

"Oh, but..."

He shook his head and squeezed her hand. "I know it was you. I get it."

"Bri? You gave Dad the necklace? Why didn't you put your name on it?" Stephanie asked.

Brianna shrugged and winked. "Everyone should get a gift from Santa and since Santa only has time to give gifts to children, I put his name on one for him."

"Ah. Gotcha." Stephanie winked back.

"I'm hungry." Jake announced.

Brianna glanced around. "Are all of the presents open?"

"Yeah." Jesse answered. "At least until Grandma and Grandpa get here."

"Okay then, Daddy, how about you start breakfast and we'll start the clean up in here."

Jon looked at the state of the living room and stood up. "Works for me."

"I'll get the garbage bags." Stephanie offered.

“Steph…” Brianna interrupted. “You mentioned before about going to the cemetery today. Do you still want to go?”

Stephanie considered for a moment, glanced at Jesse and shook her head. “No, I’m good.”

“Okay.”

Walking into the kitchen behind her father, Stephanie opened the cupboard to get the garbage bags, then paused. "Dad?"

"Yeah?"

"It was really nice to come home yesterday and find Bri here."

"Yeah, it was."

"Do you think you could make that happen more often? Maybe even permanently? Or aren't you ready for that yet?"

Jon turned to focus on his daughter. "You'd be okay with her living here full time?"

"Yes."

He didn't know how to ask his next question, or if it was even appropriate to ask at all. "What.......sleeping arrangements.......would you be comfortable with?"

Stephanie rolled her eyes and slanted him a knowing look. "You mean are we going to freak out if we see her sharing your room?"

"Yes smartass, that's what I mean."

She grinned. "I don't think we'll be scarred for life or anything."

"Good to know."

"So......is she going to move in?"

"I'm working on it."

Chapter 90

Weak morning sunshine streamed through the window, rousing Brianna from sleep. Yawning, she stretched and opened her eyes, disoriented at first with her surroundings. The shushing of the sheets behind her registered a split second before a strong arm slid over her waist and pulled her back against his hard chest.

"Mmmm." Jon sighed into her hair, then inhaled her lilac scent. He felt more relaxed than he had in months - and it wasn't just from the physical release he'd experienced the night before. It was more than that. It had more to do with the woman currently snuggled in his arms in his bed. 

She....made him feel whole again. He would always miss Dorothea and be forever grateful she'd been a part of his life, but she'd been right. It was okay - for him as well as the kids - to move on and try to be happy again. And she'd also been right about who the right woman was to move on with. Yes, after the holidays he needed to find a way to move Brianna into his house on a full time basis - and not in the bedroom across the hall! He suspected her biggest argument would be about the children's sensibilities. Maybe he should have a talk with Stephanie and Jesse and see what they thought,

Brianna stroked his arm idly while she gazed out the window and basked in her contentment. She could get used to waking up with him in this bed. She felt so safe and cared for in his arms - in his house. This family had become so much a part of her life, she couldn't imagine them not being there. She hoped she never had to.

"Mmmm. Morning." Jon nuzzled under her eat.

Turning in his arms, she smiled and kissed him. "Morning. Sleep well?"

"Mmmm hmmm. Better thank I have in a while. You?"

"Mmmm." She agreed, snuggling into his chest. "This bed is very comfortable."

"It is today." He stroked her hair and back.

"When will the kids be back?"

"Linda said she'd drop them off after lunch."

"So......we don't have to rush to get up."

"Nope. Our time is our own."

They lay in silence for a few minutes.

"Honey? Jon began hesitantly.

"Mmmmm?" Brianna felt cozy and lazy.

"What made you change your mind about coming here?" He hoped his question didn't start an argument, but his curiosity got the best of him.

Brianna sighed. "I didn't really change my mind. I always wanted to be here, I just had to find a way to do that without hurting my mother."

"And your father?"

She searched for words to explain her relationship with her father. "With Father it's not about his feelings, it's about his expectations. We were raised to always obey him, without question. As adults, we know that no longer applies, but it's a hard habit to break. None of us want to disappoint him. "She grimaced. "I've done that enough already."

"Because of me?"

She shook her head. "No. Because I couldn't make my marriage work."

"And that was all your fault?"

She shrugged. "According to Father, Alex was exactly the type of man I should marry, so if it didn't work, I must not have tried hard enough."

Jon fought down the urge to tell her exactly what he thought of her father - and then tell him, preferably with his fists! To have such little appreciation for this incredible woman - his own daughter - was just too mind boggling to understand. He hugged her close. "You know that's not true, right? You couldn't control Alex's actions. You weren't the one that cheated."

"But if I had been a good enough wife, he wouldn't have had to look for someone else."

"Stop it! From what you've told me, Alex had a history of 'looking for someone else'. Your only mistake was thinking anything you did could change that. There's a reason why they say 'once a cheater, always a cheater'." He lifted her chin until he could see her eyes. "You are an incredible, intelligent, beautiful,warm, giving, loving woman. Alex was a fool. Don't let anyone ever tell you otherwise."

Brianna's eyes filled and she smiled in gratitude. "Thank you."

He kissed her fiercely. "Don't thank me, believe me!"

She nodded. "Yes boss!" She grinned at his scowl. "Anyway, when I told Mom that you'd asked me to be here, she told me to come. As long as she got to see me at some point over the holidays it didn't matter to her what day."

"And your father?"

She toyed with a few strands of his chest hair. "For the first time in my life I didn't care what he thought. I put my wants above his."

"Good girl!"

Her hand slid up into his hair and raised her mouth to his. "Speaking of my wants...."

Jon grinned just before her lips captured his.

"WOOF! WOOF!"

Brianna broke the kiss. "I think Copper needs to go out."

"If it's not the kids, it's the damn dog!" Jon growled.

She laughed and looked at her watch. "Don't pout. We still have plenty of time."

Jon sighed, dropped a kiss on her lips and eased out of the bed. More and more he wanted a few days alone with her....and then move her in. He needed to start planning.

"Bianna!"

"Bina!"

Two small bodies hurtled into hers, almost taking her down to the floor. "Hi guys!" She looked up to see Linda shaking her head, but smiling indulgently at her nephews. "Hi Linda. Merry Christmas."

"Merry Christmas Brianna. Nice to see you." Linda rubbed a spot on her neck, raised a brow and grinned.

Brianna blushed and raised a hand to cover the hickey. She'd forgotten about the mark Jon had left on her neck until now.

Stephanie rolled her eyes and turned to her father. "Really? Do you think your seventeen again or something?"

Jon just grinned and shrugged.

"What?" Jesse had missed what they were talking about.

"Dad gave Brianna a hickey."

"Really?" He looked at Brianna, who sighed and moved her hand. His lips twitched, but he remained silent.

"What's a hickey?" Jake asked.

"Um.....it's a really hard kiss that leaves a mark." Brianna explained while Linda tried not to laugh.

"Oh." Jake thought about that for a moment. "Give me a hickey!"

Brianna grabbed him, buried her face in his neck and made gobbling noises until he shrieked.

"Me too! Me too!" Romeo tugged on her arm.

Releasing Jake, she grabbed his brother. "Okay 'me too'."

Linda watched them, a soft smile on her face. She glanced at Jon beside her. "They love her."

"Mmhmmm." He agreed.

"And she loves them."

"She does."

She nodded decisively. "It's good."

Brianna knelt down to help the boys take off their boots. "Did you guys have a good time at Aunt Linda's?"

"Uh huh."

She glanced around at the small mountain of gifts that had arrived with them. "Looks like you got spoiled!"

Jake just grinned.

Brianna stood and looked at the teenagers. "What about you two? How did you guys make out?"

Jesse gave her a thumbs up and a big grin. 

Stephanie rolled her eyes at him. "Yes, we were spoiled."

"So I guess you don't need anything tomorrow then." Jon commented with a straight face.

"Aw, Dad!" Jesse groaned.

"Way to go Jesse. Spoil it for the rest of us." Stephanie swatted his arm.

"That's too bad." Brianna looked sad. "I found some things I thought you'd really like too." She shrugged. "I guess I'll have to take them back."

"Bri!" Jesse pleaded.

She laughed and stepped closer to hug him. "We're just kidding."

"Whew!" Jesse wiped his brow.

Brianna ruffled his hair. "Linda do you want to come in? Have a drink? Jon made some egg nog and I've got some mulled cider heating."

"That sounds delicious, but I really need to get home. My husband's family is coming tomorrow and I still have tons to do. Can I take a rain check?"

"Anytime." Brianna assured her. "Did you guys remember to thank Aunt Linda?"

"Thanks Aunt Linda!"  All four children rushed to give her a hug.

"You're quite welcome. Have a great day tomorrow and I'll talk to you later."

"Bye!" They waved her off and turned back into the house.

"So....what are we going to have for dinner?”

Chapter 89

Brianna pulled into her usual spot in front of the house. Glancing around as she opened the back door of her car, she noticed Copper didn't come running like he usually did, and Jon's car wasn't visible. Unless it was in the garage, it looked like they weren't home yet.

Good.

Using the key Jon had given her months ago, she let herself in and turned off the alarm.

"Woof!" Copper trotted into the foyer, tail wagging furiously when he saw her.

"Some guard dog you are Copper. I got the alarm off before you even got close to me." She bent to pet his head and thump his side. "You stay in here while I unload my car, okay? I don't want to have to clean up wet paw prints."

"Woof!"

Whether Copper understood her or not, he did stay inside the house, content to watch her as she moved back and forth between her car and the foyer.

After taking off her boots and hanging up her coat, Brianna took the presents she'd brought and placed them under the tree in the living room. She turned on the tree lights and the fireplace before returning to the foyer to pick up her suitcase and take it upstairs.

In her bedroom, she opened her bag, started to undress, then paused. An idea popped into her head and she went to search through Jon's closet. Finding what she was looking for, she returned to her room to change, praying that Linda had followed through with her plan.

Dorothea's sister had called her a few days earlier to talk about the kids spending some time with her family over the holidays. Linda had suggested the twenty-third and had wondered about keeping them overnight. It sounded like a win-win for everyone to Brianna. If Jon and the kids agreed, it would mean Brianna and Jon could have a whole night alone together at the house For their own private Christmas celebration.

But Brianna hadn't talked to Jon about that part of it. She hadn't even told him when she was coming to Red Bank. She wanted to surprise him.....and avoid his smugness at getting his way once again. She hoped she'd parked her car in a spot where he wouldn't see it and give her away.

Studying her reflection in the mirror, she debated, then twisted her hair up and secured it with a clip. If Jon wanted it down - like he usually did - he could remove the clip easily, without pulling her hair out by the roots like he tended to do with pins.

Satisfied, she headed downstairs, where she opened a bottle of wine and took it into the living room. She sat down in the big chair by the fireplace to wait - and pray the kids didn't come running into the room.

Jon pulled into the garage, shut off the car and sighed. He was happy the kids were spending some time with Dorothea's family, but it meant he'd be home alone tonight. He'd debated driving into the city to Brianna's but he was still annoyed that she had such a hard time deciding where she wanted to be for Christmas - or more accurately standing up to her father - and now she was avoiding his phone calls. He hoped he hadn't pushed so hard he'd pushed her away, but he hated seeing her being manipulated and controlled like that. She was a grown woman! He didn't want to make her choose between them, but he agreed with her that the kids exposure to her father's antiquated attitude should be limited until they were old enough to ignore it, which meant they couldn't be all together for the holiday.

He climbed out of the car and started for the house.

Was he wrong to push her? Was it wrong to want them to spend Christmas Eve and Christmas Day together? As a couple? As a family? If they were married.....his mind shied away from that thought. But his heart whispered think about it. He wasn't ready to go there, however. At least not yet.

Entering the house, he hung up his coat and headed for the kitchen. When he passed the doorway to the living room, he noticed the heat emanating from the room and the tree lights out of the corner of his eye.

Jon frowned, thinking back to when they were preparing to leave for Linda's. He distinctly remembered turning offgyhjyyy both the tree and the fireplace. What the hell?

His gaze swept the room as he walked in, noting that only the lamp beside one of the big armchairs by the fireplace was turned on. That armchair was turned to face the fire and on the small table beside it sat a bottle of wine and a glass. As he watched a delicate hand reached for the glass.

"Golden Eyes?" He was afraid to hope.

Brianna set down the glass and stood to face him. "Surprise! Merry Christmas."

His eyes widened as his gaze drifted over her from head to toe. "Holy fuck sugar! Are you trying to kill me?" He looked closer at the men's red button down shirt she wore - the only thing she wore. "Is that my shirt?"

She smiled. "I thought it was.....festive." She looked behind him. "The kids stay at Linda's?"

He nodded and answered absently. "Yeah."

When he didn't move, just stood there staring at her, she raised a brow and crooked a finger. "Aren't you going to join me? The fire's nice and warm and I just opened the wine."

As if in a trance, he walked towards her, drawn by the glowing warmth in both the fireplace and her eyes.

Brianna stepped to the side and motioned for him to sit in the chair she'd vacated. Picking up the glass of wine, she turned, sat on Jon's lap and offered him the glass.

"What's this all about?" While he sipped he ran his free hand over her knee. "Not that I'm not happy to see you, it's just that the last time we talked I didn't think I'd see you until after Christmas. What changed your mind?"

She shrugged. "I just decided that spending Christmas Day where kids get fun gifts and are actually allowed to play with them would be more pleasant than another uptight Wilson family holiday."

"Your dad's not big on kids being kids is he?"

"No. He's firmly in the 'seen but not heard' camp." She frowned. "I often wonder what my grandparents were like. If he was raised that way and that's why he's the way he is."

"You didn't know your grandparents?"

She shook her head. "Not on Father's side. They were both gone before I was born."

"Does he have any siblings?"

"No. Only child."

"Hmmm. So....maybe he's the way he is because he never saw how a family should be."

Brianna shrugged. "Maybe." She took the glass from his hand and sipped and set the glass on the table. Leaning against his chest she traced a finger over his jaw. "Enough about my Father. Tonight's supposed to be about us, not him."

One masculine brow lifted. "Yeah? What did you have in mind?"

"Well," she brushed her lips along the path her finger had made and ran her hands down his chest to tug the hem of his sweater. "First of all, you're over dressed."

Jon chuckled, but leaned forward obligingly to help remove his sweater.  "Better?"

She surveyed his body appraisingly. "It'll do.....for now." She licked and nibbled her way down his neck and over his collar bone. Her hands came up to stroke his firm chest, tugging on the thick fur and teasing his nipples.

Jon's breath shortened and his abs tightened as she continued down his torso, slipping off his lap and nudging his knees apart so that she could reach him easily. When she arrived at his waist with no signs of stopping, his breath stopped completely.

Her fingers made quick work of the button and zipper of his pants. She wasn't the only eager one. As soon as the denim parted his cock rose up to meet her teasing fingers, yearning for her attention. Licking her lips in anticipation, Brianna tugged  on his jeans until he lifted his hips enough for her to slide them off. Sighing in contentment, she settled in to play.

Jon gripped the arms of the chair, wanting to touch her, but unwilling - and unable - to interfere or even look away. The sight of her fingers on his ultra sensitive flesh had him hardening even more, his muscles tensing in preparation for what he hoped was coming next.

Making a loose fist around his cock, Brianna pumped up and down, watching him swell. When moisture appeared in the slit, she couldn't resist and bent her head, her tongue snaking out to taste it. "Mmmm."

Jon groaned at both the sight and feel of her mouth engulfing the swollen head of his cock. Up and down her head bobbed, tongue slithering around his shaft. She didn't suck, just tasted.....and tortured. Releasing him, Brianna bent further to give some attention to his balls. Fingers and lips explored and caressed. 

When she lifted her head again, the glint in her eyes had him bracing for whatever she had planned next.  She reached into the breast pocket of the shirt she wore, pulled something out and put it in her mouth. Before his brain processed what his eyes had seen, Brianna bent once again to take his sac in her mouth.

"Fuck!" His fingers clenched on the chair arms and his hips lifted involuntarily as the vibrator sent shock waves through his nervous system. "Sugar....Jesus fuck!"

Not ready for him to blow just yet, Brianna lifted her head and exhaled a cooling breath over his tingling flesh. But she didn't let him relax for long. After only a few calming breaths, she shifted her attention to the shaft standing tall and eager.

Jon thought the sensation had been intense on his balls, but that was nothing compared to when she ran her tongue - with it's attachment - slowly along the length of his cock. When she swiped across the head he thought his heart was going to explode.  "Jesus!" His hands moved to grip her shoulders.

Up and down, round and round she moved her instrument of torture. Jon shuddered. "Fuck sugar! Please!"

Brianna glanced up at him and winked.  Taking the throbbing tip into her mouth, she rested the vibrator on the spot just below the ridge where the big vein that ran along the underside of his length started.

"Fuck, fuck, fuck, fuck."

Amused by his agonized chant, Brianna took pity on him.......and sucked.

"FUCK!" Jon shouted as he exploded.

Brianna didn't let up until he'd stopped spurting. Giving the pulsing head one last swipe, she lifted her head and surveyed his flushed face. She removed the vibrator with a grin. "Merry Christmas."

Blue eyes glittered and he gave a breathless bark of laughter. He gripped her arms and tugged until she climbed into his lap again, facing him this time, straddling his legs. His fingers stroked the smooth skin of her thighs while he fought to catch his breath.

Giving him time to recover, Brianna reached out for the wine glass and sipped, trying to ignore the sparks his fingers were creating on her skin - and the fire in her core that was lit by her recent activities. Apparently giving him pleasure got her motor running too.

Calloused fingers drifted up to slowly unbutton her shirt. He didn't remove it, just spread the sides wide open, baring her for his perusal. Studying the vision she presented, he considered, then reached up to pluck the clip from her hair, allowing the freed tresses to tumble down her back in waves of buried fire. "That's better."

Brianna smiled and leaned over to refill the glass before offering it to him. While he sipped it was her turn to explore again. Her hands we're drawn to his chest like moths to a flame. Her fingers flexed into the thick muscle and toyed with the hard nipples. The sound he made was like a growl and it reverberated in her core. Shifting closer, she leaned in to taste the wine on his lips.

Jon set aside the wineglass, wrapped both arms around her and pulled her closer yet, his mouth devouring hers. His hands slid under the shirt, gripped her ass and squeezed.

Brianna moaned and rocked against the rapidly hardening shaft rising between them, her need for relief increasing every second. Her hands slid up to grip his hair and her kiss turned voracious.

Jon lifted his hands to frame her face and broke the kiss, but locked his gaze with hers. "Put me inside you."

Her desire flared both at his words and the gravelly voice in which he said them. Rising up onto her knees, she reached down with one hand to grasp his erection and guide it to her eager opening. Without looking away, she sank down slowly until her body had engulfed his entire length.

Jon watched her face, fascinated at the flow of expressions revealed as he filled her. He kissed her panting mouth. "Ride me Golden Eyes."

The urgent need in his deep whisper had her moving without conscious thought, slowly at first, gradually picking ups speed as the pleasure grew.

"Beautiful, so beautiful." He murmured, watching her body undulate against his.

"Mmmm yes!" Eyes closed, her head fell back, exposing her neck. 

The flickering flames in the fireplace magnified those in the thick mane trailing down her back, luring his fingers to touch. Gripping her shoulders, he bent her back slightly and set his mouth to her throat, tasting his way down to her collarbone, savouring the salty tang of her sweat.

With her movements restricted, Brianna changed tactics and gyrated her hips, girding her pelvis against his. She grinned at Jon's groan, then gasped when his teeth bit down on her tender skin. It was like a match to the wick of her passion, sending it soaring. "Oh! Oh! Yes! JON!"

Any hope Jon had of retaining any staying power evaporated at the sight and feel of this woman coming apart in his arms. With a grunt and another bite, he erupted.

Brianna clutched him close, both their bodies trembling. As she calmed, she collapsed against him.

For several minutes, that sat, sipping wine, watching the flames. Brianna sighed and yawned.

"I agree." Jon grinned and kissed her head. "Bedtime." He helped her stand before rising himself. Together they buttoned up the house for the night and climbed the stairs. When Brianna turned towards her room, he caught her hand and shook his head. "Not tonight Golden Eyes. Tonight, you share my bed."

Realizing there was no reason she shouldn't, Brianna smiled and agreed. 

Chapter 88

Christmas. It truly was a children's holiday - the adults in her life were driving her nuts!

Brianna's gazed drifted from the dancing flames in her fireplace to the twinkling lights on the tree she'd set up in the corner of her living room.  Mentally reviewing the contents of the colourfully wrapped gifts piled under it, she wondered if she was missing anything.

She leaned her head back against the couch she was curled up on and sighed. She'd always loved this apartment, but now it felt...empty......too quiet. There was no yelling, no crying, no laughing, just the occasional siren and the soft music from her stereo. 

Normally she enjoyed the peace and quiet. She used the time to relax and recharge and work through any problems she had. But tonight she was just....lonely. Her apartment was warm and cozy, but she still missed Jon's heat next to her. She sighed again and reached for her tea cup. 

When her phone rang a few minutes later, she smiled and answered without looking at the display. "Hey."

"Hey." His voice was as soft as hers. "What are you doing?"

"Sitting in front of a fire, looking at my tree.......thinking of you."

Jon smiled. "Me too."

"Kids all in bed?"

"Yeah. At least, they're supposed to be. With Jake I can never be sure."

"Funny, I never have a problem getting him to go to bed."

He snorted. "That's because he loves you. He would do anything for you." Kind of like what's happening to his father.

Brianna smiled. "The feeling's mutual." If only his father felt the same way!

"Have you given any more thought to Christmas and where you're going to be?"

Sighing, Brianna grimaced. "Jon....we've been over this a hundred times." Argued about it would be a more accurate description. She was being torn between her family and his over where she was going to spend the holiday.

"I know and I don't mean to push.....well, actually I do. I want you here with us Christmas Day. Christmas Eve would be even better. I want us to all wake up together Christmas morning." He paused. "It's what the kids want."

"It's not fair to use the kids to try to manipulate me Jon."

But it works so well. "I never claimed to fight fair to get something I really want."

"It's not that simple for me."

"Sure it is. Where do you want to be? With us or them?"

"You know the answer to that, but they're my family! How would you like to have to choose between your parents and me?"

"My father isn't a chauvinistic misogynist, so it would never happen!" Grimacing, Jon scrubbed a hand over his face and blew out a breath. "I'm sorry, Golden Eyes. I shouldn't have said that. You can't help how he is and you've suffered more than anyone because...of....his.....attitude." A thump from upstairs drew his gaze to the ceiling and brought him to his feet.

"What's wrong?"

"Something heavy fell on the floor upstairs."

"Romeo fall out of bed again?" She guessed. It had happened several times when she'd been at the house.

"I'm thinking that's what happened." He climbed the stairs and stopped in his youngest son's doorway. "Yep. He's on the floor.  Didn't even wake up. Maybe I should get a thick rug and just let him sleep there."

"Jon! It's too cold. Pick him up."

"Yes dear. Hang on." Setting the phone down, he bent and scooped Romeo up, returning him to his bed and tucking him in. "See if you can stay there this time." He picked up the phone. "Okay, he's back in bed.....for now anyway."

Brianna yawned. "That sounds like a good idea." She turned off the fireplace and the lights on her way to her bedroom. Climbing into her lonely bed, she sighed. "I wish you were here to cuddle up with."

"Me too." He returned downstairs to the couch and his glass of wine.

Tucking the phone under her ear, she closed her eyes, trying to pretend he was next to her. "Sing to me Blue Eyes."

He smiled wryly. "What do you want me to sing?"

"You decide." She didn't care, she just wanted to hear his voice.

Jon thought for a moment, then began to softly sing the verse that had popped into his head:

"This world don't give you nothing it can't take away

Everybody holding on to something

Nobody wants to fade away.

No forgiveness on the streets of this town

I left my patience at a traffic light

There's no denying I almost lost it

Threw in the towel, too tired to fight

Tonight I need you

More than yesterday

Tonight I need you

Take me, touch me

Make me come alive

Hurt me, heal me

Come and make me feel it

Rescue me tonight

Love me back to life"

They both realized at the same time how prophetic those words turned out to be. Jon fell silent. Brianna bit her lip and squeezed her eyes tight against the threatening tears.

Jon stared thoughtfully into his wineglass. "I owe you for that."

"For what?"

"Rescuing me. Bringing me back to life. Even if it was tough love."

"I won't say it was my pleasure, because it definitely doesn't rank on my list of fun times, but I won't say I regret it either - just the way I had to do it."

"Me too. But I'm glad - and the kids are glad - that you had the intestinal fortitude to do it. And I'm sorry that I let it get to that point."

"Pain and grief can do that to you." She hesitated. "Dot had warned me it might happen."

Jon shook his head in wonder. "She always knew me so well. So she told you how to bring me out of it."

"Yes.."

She planned for everything. "I guess it's a good thing she did." He scrubbed a hand over his face again. "Back to Christmas..."

"Jon...." Brianna groaned.

"I'm not going to give up, so you might as well just give in."

"You get your way too much as it is."

He grinned. "But don't I always make it worth your while?"

Brianna grunted. "It's late. I need to get some sleep."

Jon would have laughed, but he didn't want to press his luck. He wasn't successful at getting his way so much by not knowing when to back off. "Okay. Sleep well Golden Eyes. I'll talk to you tomorrow. We can finalize our plans."

"Jon!" She was talking to dead air. He'd hung up before she could respond. "Damn that man!"

She hadn't finished her first cup of coffee the next morning when her mother called.

"Morning Brianna. I'm calling about Christmas."

Brianna groaned. "I don't know yet when I'll get to Chicago Mom. I'm still trying to work that out."

"What's the problem?"

"Jon wants me to spend Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with him and the kids." She closed her eyes and braced herself for the counter argument.

"Then go to New Jersey. Come to Chicago on Boxing Day, or even the twenty-seventh."

To say Brianna was shocked would be an understatement. "Really?"

 "Isn't that where you really want to be?"

"Well....yes." Brianna admitted.

"Then go. Be there with him and those beautiful children."

"You won't be upset?"

"We'll still see you over the holidays and that's all that matters to me. It doesn't matter what day. Those children need you with them more."

"Wow! Thanks Mom."

"Just let me know which day so I can tell your brothers. See if they can come then too."

"Okay. I'll talk to Jon and let you know."

When Sara hung up the phone, she sighed and turned to find her husband frowning at her. "What are you doing Sara?"

"Trying to ensure we don't lose our daughter completely."

"By encouraging her to not come home for Christmas?"

"By encouraging her to follow her heart and spend Christmas where she wants to." Sara argued.

"She belongs here. With her family."

"If my instincts are right, in the near future Jon and his children will be her family. She should be with them."

But Edward wouldn't relent. "When and if they get married she can spend the holidays there. Until then, she should be here."

"If we push that, push her to choose between us and them, we may not see her at all." Sara warned.

"Nonsense. She knows her place."

Closing her eyes. Sara prayed for strength. She was so tired of having this same argument. "Edward, when are you going to stop with that? This is the twenty-first century and she's a grown woman. Her place is wherever she wants it to be! And if you don't stop trying to dictate their lives you're going to alienate our grandchildren as well!"

Edward just rolled his eyes and opened the newspaper on the kitchen table in front of him.

Sara picked up the frying pan from the dish drain and wondered if it might knock some sense into her husband.