Chapter 20

Lily stepped out of LAX to an awaiting car, shaking her head . “When will I ever get used to this .” she muttered to herself while climbing into the backseat of a Black Lincoln . Not exactly sure  how long of a drive it would be to Richie’s house, she reached in her purse and pressed speed dial to her friend.

While waiting for Claire to answer , she glanced out at the passing scenery.  Los Angeles always impressed her it was almost like New York but with a flare for the wild and crazy.

“Hey girly,” Claire said as she picked up the phone, “did you make it to LA alright?”

“Yea riding in a nice black spanking new Lincoln as we speak. “ Lily answered then grew serious. “Claire , I am so nervous . What if his family doesn’t like me ? What if his ex despises me ? “

“You’re telling me! I’m in the car on my way to meet Jon’s kids now!” Claire replied, rubbing her forehead, “Lil, you’re so lovable. Trust me, you’ll do just fine! And if Heather doesn’t like you, well you’ll just be added to a long-ass list honey. She seems like a diva to me. No biggie if she doesn’t!”

“I sure as hell hope you’re right . I am most worried about when they find about this baby. Especially with Ava , she’s been his princess for so long. “ Lily added while clinching her hands nervously in her lap.

Claire sighed, “Honey I’m sure it’ll be fine. If Richie feels comfortable introducing you, then he knows it will be too!”

The girls talked for a few moment’s longer , when the car pulled up in front of this massive gate. Lily’s eyes widened. “Holy Hannah! You should see this house Claire. “

Claire laughed, “Sneak a picture if you get a chance! I’ll let you go.. good luck!! Wish me luck too!!”

“Will do , Good luck girlfriend . “ Lily flipped her phone shut, stuffing it back into her purse. She sucked in a deep breath as the car pulled up to a stop in the driveway.

She waited til the driver opened the door  then stepped out.  Her hand went to her forehead shading her eyes from the bright glare of the sunlight then walked slowly beside the driver as he carried her bag to the front door.  “Well here goes everything . “ she muttered to herself, pressing the door bell.

Richie all but ran from one end of the house to the other when he heard the bell chime, sliding on his socks across the tile floor in the foyer and skidding to a stop just in front of the door. He ran a hand through his hair and plastered a grin on his face, then opened the door to his second-favorite lady in the whole world. “Hiya baby!”

“Hi there yourself. “ She gazed over him then chuckled. “Did I wake you ? “ then stepped inside the massive foyer , Lily fought the urge to gasp while her eyes took in the impressive layout of his house.

“Psh. No..” Richie winked at her as he closed the door. “Home sweet home, we’re glad to have ya. Welcome to Casa Sambora,” he said, taking her hand and leading her through the foyer and into the living room. On a regular day it would’ve looked great, but this time of year it was decorated for Christmas, and looked stunning with an enormous tree in the corner and garland strung just about everywhere.

“This is - “ Lily was speechless , as he took her on a quick tour of his house. “ Wow, okay that sounds so stupid . “ she laughed. “ I can’t ever imagine living in a house like this . “

Richie chuckled, “Yeah it took a while to get used to, though that was quite a long time ago,” he grinned, “I’m glad you like it though.”

“I do this is amazing, but one question why? If its just you why so big? “ Lily asked while he led her to through the sliding glass doors,  “Oh my this is gorgeous . You have a dock ! “

“Yeah if you ever wanna go out on the boat lemme know,” he winked, “I dunno really, regarding the size,” he added, thinking, “Maybe ‘cause a big dude like me needs a big place?” he chortled. “When we came into all that money so fast, back in the day,” he told her, “we just spent and spent and spent, we were so excited. I guess that’s what this is. Just proud of my accomplishments.”

Lily intertwined her fingers with his then smiled. “You should be not too many bands from the eighties are around anymore. “ She stepped out onto the little dock and gazed out into the bright blue lake that lay before here.

Richie smiled, watching this beautiful woman amidst the beautiful scenery. He was beyond excited to have her here, in his home, as well as to have her here for the holidays, and most of all, to meet his precious baby girl. Speaking of which... “I told you Heather was gonna bring Ava by shortly, right?” he asked.

Lily chewed on her bottom lip nervously ,  “Yea you did. Um- are you sure they are okay with me?” she glanced up into his beautiful puppy dog eyes , she had grown to love so much.

He nodded, sensing her change in tone, “Baby, everything is gonna be okay. Ava said this morning on the phone she was excited to meet you!” he told her sweetly.

“Really? “ Lily asked , a surprised look coated her face. “ I just thought it might be difficult for her. Having you all to herself for as long as she has now. “

Richie shrugged, “She’s growing up, finding herself with new interests, realizing that it’s not so cool to have Daddy as your best friend anymore,” he winked. “She knows she’s never gonna be left out or forgotten, by either me or her mother, and if she needs a good reminder then now is as good a time as any.”

“Does she know about the baby? “ Lily asked , she turned to face him , gripping his hands tightly in hers.  “And Heather how is she with all this ? “  She had heard things about Heather and hoped that they didn’t get off on the wrong foot.  For both Richie and Ava’s sake .

Richie took a deep breath, “I figured it wasn’t right to tell her about the baby over the phone,” he told her, watching her eyes. “And Heather,” he smiled softly, “Well you never really know what Heather is gonna do. But she’s usually very nice,” he added.

Before Lily could respond any more of her reservations , A young blonde bounced her way down to the dock.  “Daddy!“ she called out happily.

Richie’s eye’s lit up even more as he spotted his prize and he opened his arms, scooping her up as she reached him. “Hi baby!!” he told her, kissing her cheek then releasing her. He straightened then turned to Lily, “Lily this is my beautiful daughter Ava, the light of my life. Ava baby, this is the lovely Lily, my girlfriend.”

Lily smiled lovingly at the interaction, her hand went instinctively to her stomach, he really is a wonderful father, “Hi Ava very nice to meet you.“ she held her hand out for the young girl to shake it.

Ava gazed over this beautiful woman who had stolen her fathers heart. “Nice to meet you Lily, Dad’s told me so much about you. “ she smiled then hugged her. “No handshakes in this family. If my Dad likes you-- besides Gran has raved about you so that's good enough for me. “

Lily wrapped her arms around this lovely young woman , tears coated her eyes as she shot a look of relief to Richie. “ I like your Gran very much too , she reminds me of my mother. “

Richie grinned like a kid in a candy store as he watched the interaction between his two favorite girls. He had introduced Lily to his mother the last time they were in New York, Joan had come up to meet them for lunch one day and had fallen in love with Lily. He didn’t doubt that today would be any different.

Heather stood in the patio doorway, smiling softly as she watched her daughter meet the pretty redhead who stood on the dock with Richie. The woman’s smile was sincere and she even looked a little nervous. Heather chuckled, this definitely was a change from Richie’s usuals. [i]Could she be different?[/i] She decided to find out for herself and stepped down onto the patio, making her way towards the girls and her ex-husband.

Lily gazed up just in time to see Heather approach, her heart started to pound and her stomach twirled in knots as she released Ava and backed up a few steps.

Ava sensing her worry spoke , “Don’t worry about mom, as long as I like it you that's what matters right?“ she grinned sweetly.

Lily couldn’t help but laugh at the young girls logic , “She is so your daughter.” her eyes landed on a very amused Richie.

Richie chuckled, ruffling his daughters hair. “So true!” he looked up as Heather stepped onto the dock, “Thanks for dropping Ava off, I appreciate it.”

Heather nodded, “Of course, no problem,” she answered kindly then turned to Lily, holding out her hand. “I’m Heather, it’s really nice to meet you,” she said, smiling genuinely.

“Nice to meet you too. “ Lily smiled as she extended her hand and shook the older blonde’s hand.

Richie wanted to literally jump for joy as he watched the three ladies interact with genuine kindness. Just like when Lily had met his mom, a little something told him yet again that things were clicking into place just perfectly.

Chapter 19

Claire raised an eyebrow as she bit into her french fry, her nose wrinkling. “Um, eiw.” she said to nobody in particular, dropping the fry and taking a sip of her coke.

Jon glanced over with curiosity, “What is it baby? “ he asked while taking a bite of his burger, which by all accounts was cooked to perfection.

Lily frowned as she gazed down at her salad, “This isn’t Italian dressing ? “ She placed a tip of her finger into the white chunky dressing then crinkled her nose, “ Ugh Bleu Cheese, who the hell eats bleu cheese certainly not me. “

Richie’s brow furrowed as he watched both girls’ faces, then turned to his own food. His fries were steaming hot and his chicken sandwich looked to be the same. In a flash of realization he let out a bark of laughter, “Oh Lordy, you two pissed off the waitress big time!” he guffawed.

Claire looked up at him, “You’re shitting me! No fair!” she exclaimed frustratedly, taking a bite of her sandwich and finding that it was cold as well. “Dammit..” she swore again.

Jon reached over to her food, “You don’t mind do you ? “ he lightly touched her food and it was ice cold. He arched an eyebrow. “ Damn , what did you two do ? “ he slightly teased knowing full well what probably happened.

Lily tossed an evil glare to both men , “We didn’t do anything other than sit here with you . “ She replied, her voice coated with anger. Her hormones kicked up a notch because of uneatable food.

Richie pushed back his chair and stood, his full 6ft height towering over the restaurant, “Excuse moi, Mademoiselle?” he called out, looking around for the waitress. She literally jumped as she spun around on the other side of the room and slowly made her way towards the table. Richie sat, grinning, “Who wants to say something?” he asked nonchalantly.

Lily glanced up, willing herself to remain calm. “ This isn’t what I ordered, its bleu cheese I ordered Italian and my sandwich is not done. “ she removed the bun and split open the fish to show the raw fish. “ I am pregnant and this wouldn’t not be good for me much less anyone else. Her food is cold, Shall I go on ? “

Both Richie and Claire dissolved into giggles as the little woman chewed the waitress out, it was quite a sight. The waitress looked like she wanted the Earth to swallow her up, no questions asked. She grabbed both plates, mumbled an apology and all but ran back to the kitchen.

“Holy hell, girlfriend!!” Claire exclaimed, reaching across the table to offer Lily a high five.

Richie wrapped an arm around Lily, “That’s my girl,” he said proudly.

“Told you I was hungry , don’t mess with me and my food. “ Lily grinned as she returned her friend’s high five.

“Damn if you haven’t gotten yourself a spitfire there Dean. “ Jon chuckled, “ She handled it better than you or I  could. “

The stubbornness Lily had still shone, while though she heard him she didn’t respond or even bother to look Jon’s way.   She just cuddled up a bit closer to Richie and took a sip of her drink.

Claire let a giggle slip but quickly stopped as she reached under the table and took Jon’s hand. She didn’t dare say anything about Lily’s grudge-holding, but she did feel a little bad for Jon who was really making an effort. “Wonder if my fries will actually be hot this time? Anyone wanna make bets?” she asked as she spotted the waitress coming their way, plates in hand.

Jon let out a deep frustrated sigh,  “Lily , I’m sorry . Are you ever gonna forgive me ? “ he asked hopefully .

Lily stared at the napkin , then looked directly into his eyes . “ I’m not sure I can, You had no business telling him . If and that is a BIG if  I hadn’t then I have no right to judge you but you never gave me the time  to come to terms with this . I was in shock.. So no Jon I’m not sure if I can. “ she answered with all honesty.

Richie shot his brother a ‘I’d help but I really can’t’ look before tightening his grasp around Lily and taking a sip of his soda. He felt for his friend, really, but it was all up to Lily.

Jon gazed at his friend then back to Lily, “I’m sorry. I just didn’t think you would not from the way Claire had said you were acting.  So I felt Richie needed to know. “

Lily’s eyes grew dark as she  fought back the anger that was building within her, “ I was in shock! Wouldn’t you be if out of the blue your world is turned upside down. “ Her voice quivered for a moment then she continued. “ But oh no not you Mr I gotta fix everything right now , never happens to you does it ? “

Claire raised her eyebrows as the words came out of Lily’s mouth, harsh and cruel and full of hurt. She winced as Jon’s grip on her hand tightened but said nothing, eating her freshly hot fries in silence.

Lily stood up, tears welling in her eyes . “ Excuse me I have to go to the restroom . “ then darted off to the bathroom, hormones were running wild and it confused her. She had never even with Daniel gotten this emotional , all this was so foreign to her .

Richie shot to his feet and followed his girl, stopping short when the ladies’ room door swung shut in his face. He looked around, took a deep breath and went in anyway. Thankfully the room looked empty- only one stall door was shut, and he knew who was in it. He knocked softly, “Baby? You alright?”

Lily sniffed, grabbed a sheet of toilet paper then wiped her eyes.  “ I dunno , what’s wrong with me? Wait what are you doing in here? “ She slowly opened the door to find Richie all six foot of him standing right in the middle of the ladies restroom.

Richie shrugged, “Taking care of you. Baby, nothing is wrong with you, you’re angry, and that’s fine.” he stepped forward and pulled her into a hug, “What else is bothering you, other than just bein’ mad at Kidd?”

“I never say such things to anyone, and I am so-- I don’t know , one moment I wanna cry next I wanna throw something.  Is this normal I mean I must sound so stupid, being my age and not knowing what to expect . “

“Well the doc said somethin’ about mood swings, darlin’,” Richie reminded her, “don't you worry your pretty head about not knowing, ‘cause I don’t know either, remember? We’re gonna do this together, you and me.”

She leaned back , searching his eyes for assurance. “ You do really mean it don’t you ? “

He met her gaze, his eyes full of promise, “Yeah baby, I really mean it.”

She smiled then on her tip toes leaned in to kiss him , “ Thank you for everything. “

Just then an older woman walked in , letting out a piercing scream and darted out the door in a mad rush.

Lily laughed harder than she had ever laughed,  “ I think we better leave before we get kicked out and I am so starved. “

Richie guffawed, “That’s probably a good idea!” he took Lily’s hand and they went back to their table, where Jon and Claire sat waiting, worried looks on both of their faces. “You lovebirds wanna get outta here?” he asked.

Lily glanced up at him strangely, “But we just got our order fixed, We haven't gotten the chance to eat it yet. "

Richie looked around at the stares they were receiving, including from the waitress from her post. “Yeah, but this place is crampin’ my style,” he chuckled, “I bet we could find something better,” he winked.

Jon glanced around, “ What did you do Dean? But you know I think you’re right the service here sucks and I will be calling their corporate office in the morning. “ He stood , reached his hand out for Claire , then dug in his pocket threw a 20 dollar bill on the table . “That should cover the bill. “

Claire took her man’s hand and smiled at the people watching as the foursome made their way out of the restaurant, “You really gonna call corporate?” she asked incredulously, “You don’t think that’s a little much?”

“No I don’t , I expect when I go into a restaurant or any place of business with my friends or girlfriend for them to receive the same treatment as I do . “ He stated matter of factly, his words directed to the waitress.

Richie chuckled, “Claire Fitzpatrick, meet Jon Bon Jovi, His Royal Highness, Governor of New Jersey.”

Chapter 18

Lily sat in her seat, her hands lightly rested on her still flat stomach , her eyes fixated on Richie. He was so gorgeous and sweet , someone she could easily fall in love with.  These last few days were heavenly,  She almost could let herself believe he truly meant he would be there for her.

The doctor’s appointment confirmed what the test had shown , now she was officially carrying his child.  He was over the moon happy and assured her that he wanted and would be there for her and so far had kept his word on that .

Her eyes darted slightly to Claire , hurt and anger coated her eyes again as she thought how her friend had betrayed her.  Part of her wanted to forgive her but the stubborn part wouldn’t allow it.

Claire smiled softly as she watched her man rock the microphone, then shot a glance over at Lily, who was watching Richie. After a split moment’s thought, she stood and moved in Lily’s direction, choosing the seat next to her friend. “Hiya,” she said softly.

Lily’s eyes shot immediately to the floor, her heart pounded fast in her chest. God why am I so nervous ? “ Hi “ she answered back quietly.

“How ya been?” Claire prompted softly, unsure of Lily’s reaction.

“Okay. You? “ Lily answered again , her eyes slowly returned to Richie, who gave her a slight wink and a warm, loving smile.

Claire followed her gaze, then looked at Jon, and finally back to Lily, “Not bad. Have you,” she paused, “spoken to a doctor?”

“Yea, “ Lily pinched her eyes closed for a moment , refusing to show just how emotional she had become now. “ It’s official ‘ she added swallowing hard.

Claire nodded, “Wow. Congratulations, sweetie.”

“Yea, thanks “Lily paused for a moment. “Not sure what to think . It’s still just sinking in. “ She admitted. Her gaze landed on her hands that rested on her stomach.

“How has Richie been?” Claire asked, studying her friend’s movements.

“He’s been great. He even has held my hair when I puked . How romantic is that ? “ Lily snorted.

Claire giggled, “Aw, what a sweetie. You think he’s gonna stick around?”

“He says he is . I just - Look I’m sorry but still mad at your boyfriend though. I was gonna tell him I was really - I just got scared and it overwhelmed me. I don’t wanna trap him. “ Lily rambled.

Claire looked up at Jon, “Yeah, I know. And I know he’s sorry, and so am I. We were both just trying to help, but I guess we should have minded our own business. I seriously doubt Richie thinks you’re trapping him though,” she added, “he seems pretty smitten with you.” She nodded up at Richie, who was grinning ear to ear as he tried to play his solo but really kept getting distracted watching the girls talk.

Lily glance again towards Richie , “To be honest, I think I am too. This is just happening all to fast and I don’t want him to have any regrets. I know his first marriage ended horribly. “

Jon smirked as he slowly walked over to Richie. “Shit , would you look at that ? “ he said while watching the girls in a deep conversation. “You think all is forgiven or am I gonna get Lily’s version of the stink eye. “

Richie chuckled softly, “I honestly couldn’t tell ya bro, but I’m sure as hell glad they’re talking.”

“I think that's enough of rehearsal , why don’t we go get a bite to eat. “ Jon suggested as he placed his guitar back down.

Richie nodded, “Yeah, sounds good to me,” he replied, setting his own in its stand. “Ladies, whataya say? Are we hungry?” he asked, stepping down off the stage.

Lily stood and walked slowly over to Richie. “ Sounds good to me , we didn’t get a chance to eat before we came. “

Claire nodded, shooting a glance to Jon, “Sure, that’s fine,” she replied.

Jon slid his arm around Claire’s waist and lead the group out to the awaiting black SUV. “You girls know the drill. “ he winked as he slid in first then patted his lap for Claire to sit.

Lily stepped into the SUV and settled herself onto Richie’s lap.  “All set I guess , where we going?”  as her stomach rumbled eager to find the nearest restaurant.

Claire laughed at Jon’s hopeful expression, “Uh babe I don’t need to sit on your lap this is a big car-” she paused, rolling her eyes, “damn though you are just too cute,” she giggled, climbing in and situating herself in Jon’s arms.

Richie chortled, “It’s tradition now,” he shot a glance to Jon, “Uh I dunno, where should we eat?”

Jon grinned. “ Besides we have precious cargo now. “ He dared to cast a wink to Lily. “What is everyone hungry for? “

Lily’s stomach growled again in protest . “ Anything.“ she answered while snuggling in closer against Richie , still refusing to give Jon a passing glance.

Claire giggled at Jon’s reaction to being snubbed as she nudged him, “Let’s hit that place you took me for breakfast that one morning, I can’t remember what it was called..” she suggested.

Jon shot Richie a “How the fuck am I to fix this look” then responded “ That works they have some damned fine food there. “ He leaned up a bit to tell their driver the destination they wanted to go.

Lily  glanced out the window, yes maybe she should forgive Jon too , but damn he could have waited just a bit to see if she would tell Richie . The simple fact that he couldn’t is what pissed her off . He didn’t trust her enough to do the right thing . So right now he would get her infamous silent treatment.

Richie bit his lip, trying hard not to laugh and proud of his girl for making Jon feel inferior for a change. He wrapped his arms around her and placed his hands softly on her stomach, then leaned down and kissed her cheek. “Hungry?” he asked sweetly.

Her stomach grumbled as if to answer his  question and Lily  chuckled.. “Just slightly can’t ya tell . You’d think I hadn’t ate in days. “ she leaned back , damn if it didn’t feel right having his protective arms wrapped around her. He made her feel like she was the most important person in the world, and it been a damned long time since she felt like that. Even Daniel never made her feel this way.

Claire smiled softly as she watched the couple interact, sharing a knowing look with Jon. She was truly happy for her friend, and she had a feeling that this was something that was going to last a while.

Richie grinned as the car pulled to a stop outside the diner, “Well this here’s your lucky day ‘cause baby this place will give ya pretty much whatever you want,” he told her, helping her slide out.

Lily stepped out of the car and waited for the others to join her, she just prayed her stomach would behave and enjoy the food instead of rebelling against her.   One moment she was able to eat 2nd and 3rd portions then the very next moment it would  rebel against her. Thankfully the doctor gave her something to handle the nausea.

Jon quickly joined Claire ,  taking her hand in his and the couple’s walked into the diner and were quickly seated far back in a corner booth so they wouldn’t be disturbed.

The Waitress handed them all menus , holding back a giggle that caused both Claire and Lily to roll their eyes.  This was one thing both girls needed to get used too. “ What would you like to drink? “ Her eyes remained on the guys.

Claire snorted, “Can I have a Coke please?”

“A glass of water with lemon please ? “ Lily responded , as she watched the lady take their orders but with a slight glare directed their way and a nod. “ And you gentleman what would you like? “

“A coke for me too please . “ Jon answered unaware of the special treatment , he and Richie were receiving.

Richie also ordered casually then looked at Lily once the waitress was gone, “What?” he asked curiously, regarding both her and Claire’s facial expressions.

“You honestly don’t know? Didn’t you see the glare we got ? “ Lily asked as she looked at her friend. “ If looks could kill we would be toast. “

Jon answered. “She seemed sweet . “ then looked at Claire, his eyebrows furrowed. “Didn’t you think so? “

Claire snorted again, “After the time I’ve spent with you, I would have guessed you’d be a little more observant, sweetie.” she told him, winking. “But oh well, guess we gotta get used to it, being on the arms of world-known heartthrobs, eh Lil?” she asked.

Lily laughed and was about to answer when the waitress returned with their drinks . She watched the lady place the guy’s drinks on little paper coasters while leaving the girls as is. “ Are you ready to order? “ she asked dreamily.

Richie let out a bark of laughter as he realized the girls were right, then quickly stopped himself, covering his mouth as his shoulders shook and he squeezed his eyes shut. Then he looked up at the waitress. “You forgot two coasters.” he said solemnly.

The waitress eyes widened “Oh I’m so sorry. “ she reached in her apron and pulled out two coasters, placed the girl’s drinks on them.

Lily muttered quietly. “I’m sure. “ then spoke louder “ I would like fish sandwich with cheese, extra tarter and a baked potato with the works and a salad please with Italian dressing. “

Claire stopped giggling at Richie antics long enough for her jaw to drop. “Holy hell,” she said to Lily, “hungry?!”

“I am , I could have ordered the whole menu but thought I would leave something for you all to eat.”  Lily chortled.

Jon laughed. “ Damn she eats like you Dean. “ as he placed his order of a cheeseburger and fries.

Richie wrapped an arm around Lily’s waist and pulled her closer, “I like a girl with an appetite,” he winked, kissing the top of her head, thrilled that everything seemed to be working out alright again.