Chapter 12

The ride back to the hotel was a silent one, and the girls traipsed back up to their room in the same way. Claire stormed in, still pissed, and flopped on the couch, sighing. 

“Am I wrong to be pissed?” she asked, meeting Lily’s eyes.

Lily walked into the kitchen , pulled out a bottle of wine and two glasses then carried them into the living area. Handing one glass to Claire , she opened the bottle and poured. “ I dunno C - I feel so damned humiliated . God I told him something so personal and he couldn’t be honest with me ?” 

Claire took a big gulp of wine, “Ass.” she said flatly. “But the pathetic thing is, we’ve known them how long, and I’m so affected by this? God Lily I wanna cry and it shouldn’t be this big of a deal!”

Lily shook her head in disbelief, “I know why should we care? After all this was a fling . We just wanted to get laid probably as much as they did . “ She paused to finish off her first glass and quickly poured another , Because he made you feel something you hadn’t felt in a long time thats what! 

“Fuck though he was so sweet,” Claire replied, “they both were. I actually found myself imagining spending more time with him, getting to know him.” She sighed, “I know I said I wanted a fling, and I did, but I want more, too.”

“Well I guess that won’t be happening now huh? Relationships are based on trust and if you don’t have that what do you got? “ Lily refuted though her heart was singing a different tune. How could she feel anything to a stranger after just a few days , Impossible! Yea right tell that to my heart ! 

Claire sniffled, “Shit. Look at me. I should not care this much. I should say ‘fuck off’ and change the subject. But Lily,” she added, sitting up, “I don’t want to. I think I’ve completely lost my mind, but I really, really liked him.”

Lily let out a deep soulful sigh , “ I know “ she glanced towards the bedroom “But it was gonna end in a couple days , Right ? So maybe its for the best “

“I had been thinking of ways to keep it going, in all honesty,” Claire replied, “I mean, obviously it can’t now, but I was still wondering.” She poured herself more wine and took a sip, “Oh well.” She sniffled again. 

Lily stood up , walked over to the window and stared out to the busy city streets below “ It was nice while it lasted . He was so funny though and those eyes of his “ she smiled slightly “ No man in South Carolina is gonna compare , not now “ 

Claire leaned her head back, closing her eyes. “Damn, I hadn’t thought about that. I’ve never seen blue eyes as bright as Jon’s. Or at least, I thought I hadn’t,” she snorted, “turns out I’ve seen them in music videos.” She stood up and walked over to her friend, following her gaze. “Rock stars, Lily.”

Lily couldn’t help but snicker “ Who would have thunk it ? “ she walked back towards her laptop , sat down in front of it and booted it up then googled Bon Jovi “Shit C how could we not know , look at this ? “ 

Claire sat down next to her friend and glanced at the man whose photos and name filled the screen, the man she had laughed with, shared her story with, slept with. “Jesus. All those articles about their divorces, how did we never see these?”

“Fuck if I know , they have to think we are the dumbest chicks on the planet “ Lily replied a flush of embarrassment crept once again across her face. Her eyes stuck on one article about Richie’s DUI arrest “ Shit C , I thought it was something close but hell he has not only been through a divorce but his father died . No wonder he drank “ she muttered quietly. Her heart ached for him and the pain he must had gone through.

“He has a daughter, Lily,” Claire said, pointing to the screen. “Holy shit, Jon has four kids!”

“Damn Mr Rockstar of yours was busy “ Lily winked “ Aw look at her she is beautiful . I always wanted kids , Daniel never did . “ 

Claire, shrugged, “I’m okay without ‘em, but good for him really. Damn divorced after four kids,” she continued, “poor guy.”

“C, were we fair to them ? “ Lily asked as she continued to read on . “After all Richie had said they were just enjoying being normal for a change . Can you imagine being scrutinized like this ? “ 

“No, I can’t” Claire replied, “and Richie, maybe he’s alright. But Jon,” she sighed, closing her eyes, “Jon flat-out lied to me. Said he was a businessman, a philanthropist. Before he slept with me.”

Lily rubbed her temples as a pending headache was starting to surface . “ After reading this I’m not sure . If I could just not give a damn ! “ Lily stood up, and walked over to her glass of wine and took a drink. 

Before she could say another word , there was a knock on the door . Lily glanced at Claire “Now who could that be ? “ she strolled to the door, peeked out the peephole then opened the door , noticing a man holding two big bouquet of red roses. “Thank you “ Lily forced a smile as she took the rather large bouquet, then shut the door . 

Claire stood and crossed the room, “Oh, hell.” she said, taking a bouquet with her name on it. “Kissing ass, much?” she couldn’t help but giggle. 

Lily walked back to the couch , set the flowers on the table then leaned in to take in the sweet fragrance of the roses “ Maybe so but have to say they go all out when their in the doghouse. “ She reached in for the card . “ I’m so sorry will you forgive me , Richie . Damn I so can see his puppy dog look right now “ 

Claire opened the card on her bouquet. “Can we start over? Hi, my name’s Jon Bon Jovi.” she snorted. “Real touching, this one. And he writes love songs?”

Lily opened her mouth only to be interrupted by her phone “ Oh for fucks sake , I swear if its Kelly, I so need to find a new girl that's for sure . That will make how many times she has called on this vacation alone “ she complained , picking up it and glanced at the number “Um no its not Kelly “ then flicked it open “Hello, wondered when I was gonna get a call “ 

“Kinda surprised you answered,” Richie replied on the other end, nodding to Jon. “Can we talk? All four of us, I mean.”

Lily mouthed ‘It’s them’ “ I suppose “ she pressed the speaker button “ Have your say . We’re listening “ she replied curtly.

Richie sighed, this was gonna be tough. “Baby, or, ladies,” he corrected himself, “You have to believe us when we both say how sorry we are. In all honesty, at first yes we were just looking for a fling, but then we got to know you and really enjoyed spending time with you.” He looked at Jon, raising his eyebrows and inviting him to speak. 

“We never meant to stretch the truth . It’s just we got caught up in the normalcy and we didn’t want it to end. You don’t know what its like to be in the spotlight . “ Jon paused “ I know before you say anything we did choose this life . But sometimes its really nice not to be recognized . Almost like if we could actually go into a grocery store and shop. “ 

“We understand what you’re saying but it doesn’t take back how it made us feel. And two we are angry with ourselves for giving a shit . We came to New York to have fun and now I - I just don’t know “ Lily answered quietly.

Claire sighed, finally deciding to join the conversation. “We came to New York to have fun, and while doing so met two very sweet, very charming and very sexy men that we trusted enough to want to get to know. And what happened? They listened to us, learned our stories, and then fucked us. The end.”

Jon winced at her cold,bitter tone then shot Richie a ‘we’re fucked ‘ look “ Tell us what can we do to make it up to you ? “ 

“I dunno I told you something I never tell anyone - Hell I didn’t tell Claire until we had been friends for months and even then she had to pry it out of me . So I don’t know what you can do to fix this.“ Lily answered , pinching her eyes shut, Fuck Lily don’t you dare cry , Not for any man again .

Richie heard the pain in Lily’s voice and wished he could wrap her in his arms. “Darlin’, I am so, so sorry I hurt you. Honest. I would do anything to fix this.” Anything? Fuck dude you’re deeper in this than you thought.

“But don’t you see I don’t know what can fix this ? “ 

Jon piped in “ Please can we all start over ? Please “ He put extra emphasis on Please, Shit Jon when have you begged for anything , What the fuck is up with that ? 

Claire sat up, glancing at Lily and nodding. “I’m all for second chances, really. But you know we’re leaving here in just a few days, right?”

“Yea, we do. And so you know we’ll be starting a huge tour in just a few months “ Jon replied back . “We have a new album coming out in November “ 

“Yes we read about it online.“ Lily answered “ I don’t see how anything can work . You’ll be on the road and we will be in Charleston working “ 

“Do you want it to work?” Richie asked softly, “In all honesty?”

Lily eyes watered “ This is insane you know that right ? We just met - but yea I think I do “ 

“Me too. How about you two, now?” Richie added, meaning Jon and Claire.

“I would like to try “ Jon answered though Lily was right , about it being insane . “Baby- I mean Claire whatta say ? “ 

Claire huffed, squeezed her eyes shut and leaned in towards the phone. “Hi, I’m Claire Fitzpatrick. And you are?”

Jon smiled “ HI Claire Fitzpatrick , I am Jon Bon Jovi or my real name is J O H N Francis Bongiovi “ 

Claire snorted, “I may have to start calling you Francis.”

Richie guffawed, “Yes! Please do,” he said, nudging his friend. 

Jon shot him a dark look then smacked Richie in the shoulder “ You just just love that wouldn’t ya fuckhead and baby if that's what you wanna call me - You and only you can “ 

“Okay now don’t be a kiss-ass,” Claire joked.

“OH Lordy what we get ourselves into C “ Lily snorted “By the way I’m Lily Rose Martin “ 

“Hello, Lily Rose Martin,” Richie said slowly, his voice deepening, “Richard Stephen Sambora at your service, darlin’.”

Claire giggled, “Y’all don’t wanna know my middle name. God Lily, can you imagine the hell these two would give me?”

Lily burst out laughing “C’mon C I mean we all gave ours up - I mean I got two flowers for my name “ 

“Yea baby tell us we promise to behave “ Jon encouraged as he crossed his fingers 

Claire sighed, rolling her eyes. “It’s Melody,” she said quietly, laughing.

“Melody huh? See its fate we know all about Melodies. Don’t we Dean ? “ Jon chuckled 

Richie shrugged, wagging his eyebrows. “I like pretty flowers better, no offense.” he replied. 

Jon groaned “ Oh hell who is kissing ass now “ 

“I happen to like that it was sweet “ Lily retorted . 

“You would,” Claire winked, elbowing Lily.

“So since we are forgiven , Can we come over ? “ Jon asked as he shot a grin to Richie .

Lily paused for a moment and when Claire nodded “ Sure “ 

Both girls looked up as there was a knock on the door. “You’re shitting me,” Claire said, standing up and padding to the door and opening it a crack. “Can I help you?” she joked.

Jon grinned “Yea we were in the neighborhood and thought we stop on by “ as he braced himself against the door framed and peeked in.

Richie laughed from behind his brother, “I am staying here, if you remember,” he added, “we’re not total stalkers. Just a little.” he smiled.

Claire stepped aside and let them in, “Uh, huh, creeps.” she giggled.

Chapter 11

Chapter 11

The girls woke up early Thursday morning after two days of lazy, relaxing hibernation in their hotel room , they decided to hit the town . First up was breakfast at a diner in Times Square.

“So C what shall we do today ? “ Lily asked while taking a sip of her coffee but before her friend could reply , Lily overheard two men sitting near them talking about a concert and it peeked her interest. She turned around “Excuse me, what concert is going on? We’re out of town and looking for something to do today. “

Claire choked on her coffee, shocked by her friend’s random outburst at the strangers, but also curious. “I could see a concert,” she added quietly.

The two gentlemen they were speaking to were construction workers. “Bon Jovi is playing this dumb private gig in the Meadowlands parking lot this morning,” one of them replied, rolling his eyes.

Claire giggled, nudging her friend as she remembered the drunken night when they had planned this whole trip.

Lily’s grin grew as she recalled that drunken night as well “Excuse me how can we get tickets? We wouldn’t mind seeing them “ she asked the two workers . “And where is it we are not from here, and what time is it ? “

The second guy smiled, “Slow down honey. It’s a private show across the bridge in Jersey and it starts in about an hour and a half. Fortunately for you,” he added, digging in his pockets, “we have no desire to go. You want our passes?”

Claire took them from the man, smiling. “Hey, I”m all for a good laugh. Who knew these guys were still together?” she nudged Lily again, “and I’m still curious as to what they look like these days, but somebody wouldn’t let me Google them..”

“Thank you, you're so kind “ Lily smiled brightly at the two men “ Yea well we didn’t want to ruin our fantasy now did we ? Now we will see for sure what they look like now “

The one guy bit back a retort , as he exchanged glances with his friend They don’t know what they look like?  " Have a great time ladies . I’m sure you’ll will though . My girlfriend is probably gonna kill me but she had to work so no use letting them go to waste “

The girls finished their breakfast and walked outside to hail a cab, asking the driver to take them to the stadium, which he said was between a half hour and an hour away, depending on traffic.

Claire grinned, laughing. “I can’t believe we’re gonna see Bon Jovi,” she rolled her eyes. “Is it sad that we haven’t been paying attention to celebrity stuff? Those two goons looked at us like we should’ve known what they looked like.”

“Hell when do you and I have time to pay attention to that stuff ? “ Lily chortled as she climbed in beside her friend “This should be interesting , I wonder what they look like now ? “

Claire snorted, “Everyone else from that era looks ancient or fat, so I’m gonna go with either. Or both. I hope they play some old stuff,” she added, “I didn’t even know they were still making music. That’s what happens when you live in South Carolina, it’s country western radio or nothing.” she winked.

“I know the other day though I thought the radio station said something about Sugarland and Bon Jovi but I thought I was hearing things “ Lily laughed “maybe I wasn’t “

Claire arched an eyebrow, “Sugarland and Bon Jovi?” she laughed, “Now that I’d like to see.” she thought for a moment, “You know, I’m kind of afraid to see them. They were so good looking back then, I don’t want that image of the little sexy rocker in the spandex pants to be ruined,” she giggled, “I remember all my friends loved them when I lived in Boston.”

‘Yea I used to drive my parents nuts with them too can you imagine , southern parents who were all country heard rock blasting from my room “ Lilly laughed  “It was a fun time be nice to hear those songs again . And if they are bald and missing teeth so what , they have to at least still carry a tune “ she cast her friend a look “Right? “

Claire nodded slowly, “Let’s hope so.”

The rest of the trip went by fairly quickly for a Thursday morning, and before the girls knew it, they were pulling into the parking lot of the Meadowlands. The crowd was huge and they couldn’t even see the stage. They exited the car and walked towards where the stage most likely was, showing security their passes.

Claire stood on her tiptoes, “Damn, can’t even see!”

“Maybe we can squeeze up closer lets look for an opening ? “ Lily gazed around “Over there “she pointed on the left side and started walking through the slight whole in the crowd.

Claire followed her friend as the opening notes of the first song began, and stopped short, almost running into Lily. “Why the hell did you stop?” she asked, unable to see anything.

Lily stopped suddenly frozen the moment her gaze landed on the man she spent the night with a couple nights ago “Holy fuck me! “ she managed to squeak out then inched her way forward slowly, her body shaking as she drew nearer to the man.  “Oh God  C its them ! “

“Yeah Lily, Bon Jovi, I know-” she stopped as she finally caught a glimpse of the lead singer belting it out on stage. “OhmiJesus,” she squeaked out, her hand flying to her mouth. Fuck, I knew they had looked somewhat familiar!

Lily’s eyes remained fixated Richie, God how could I have not known! He must think I am an imbecile! Fuck he is gorgeous ,“Shit C I feel so freaking stupid “ she leaned over and yelled to be heard over the music.

Jon was in the middle of his speech after the first song, when he glanced down at the crowd and smiled then his eyes locked with a familiar pair of green eyes, Fuck! How did they find out ?  Wait she seems as shocked as I aml So how did sh- did they find us ? It was a spur of the moment concert , He glanced down at their passes , they weren’t fan club passes -radio maybe? . He swiveled around , reached for his guitar and sauntered over to Richie “Take a good look , Front row your side “ he muttered softly then began the first bars of Bad Name .

Richie played the song’s intro and then glanced down at the crowd where Jon had said and spotted the two girls. Fuck, busted. He thought to himself, smiling softly at Lily before directing his attention to singing backup to Jon.

Claire met Jon’s equally wide eyes and her brow furrowed. “He looks freaked,” she said, “Gah Lily I don’t even know what to think!” She thought for a moment and then erupted into a fit of hysterical giggles. “Lily,” she gasped out, “they’re not old and fat!!” she exclaimed, clutching her stomach as she laughed even harder.

She tried not to laugh but was unsuccessful, “No no I can definitely say they aren’t old , fat and definitely can carry a tune “ Her eyes remained on Richie , he was truly passionate about his music as well , his faces amused her “ You know those faces there , they're the same he makes when-- “ Lily giggled even harder , as tears streamed down her face .

Jon watched the two girls with a puzzled look , Why the hell are they laughing? He glanced down to see if maybe his zipper was down . He walked over to Richie while they played their solo together . “Ok wonder what the joke is ? Are we the blunt of it or what ? “

Richie turned away from Jon as the solo ended and looked down to see them doubled over in hysterical giggles. He met Jon’s eyes and shrugged, grinning.

After a couple more songs, Wanted , It’s My Life and Prayer , The show was over and the girls were reluctantly making their way through the crowd when they were stopped by a tall , lanky man with glasses “ Excuse me ladies , I was told to come and get you two “

Lily eyed him warily “By whom? “

“By my bosses of course , You know the big tall goofy one and the one I don’t wanna piss off too badly “ He responded with a wiry grin.

Lily glanced at Claire “Well I guess we can’t have you gettin’ in trouble now can we C ? “

Claire shook her head, back to her shocked self without the giggles. “No, guess not,” she replied.

“This way ladies “ Obie said as he took the lead , straight to a black SUV parked off to the side and surrounded by security.  He walked over , opened one of the back doors “Here they are safe and sound. “

“Nice meetin’ you ladies , Obie is the name and if there is anything you need let me know “ He added before taking off to another SUV parked directly behind it .

Lily hesitated before peeking her head in  “Fancy meeting you two here “ she remarked with a bright smile .

Richie patted the seat next to him, “Yeah, crazy coincidence, right?” he said, smiling to cover a wince.

Claire climbed into the car behind her friend, seating herself next to Jon in the second row. Unlike Lily, she had realized something, and wasn’t too thrilled to talk to Jon. “A philanthropist? A businessman?” was all she said, quietly staring at him.

Jon winced at the tone on which she had spoken “ I didn’t lie I am , I just didn’t say what all I did” he confessed .

Lily placed her hands on her lap , she really couldn’t be angry with him, He never lied but this was quite a shocker too , never dreamed he was even remotely famous . But she did feel like a fool, God he has to think I am the biggest of airheads or live under a rock,  which was worse she didn’t know.

“There’s a big, fat, fucking difference between a businessman and a rockstar,” Claire replied icily, studying his face. Jesus, I see it now, she thought to herself, mentally erasing the lines and adding more hair. Okay, I am an idiot but he still lied to me.

Richie hesitantly took Lily’s hand, giving her an apologetic look. “Are ya mad at me?” he asked, “I thought it was so refreshing that you didn’t recognize me, and I wanted a little bit of normalcy.” He said quietly, meeting her eyes.

Jon paused for a moment to find the correct wording before he spoke “I’m sorry Claire , I am a businessman who happens to be a rockstar too “ he reached for her hand  “We never meant to hurt you girls honest. We were just enjoying the not knowing . You know how long its been for a girl to want to be with us without being us if that makes sense ? “

Lily gazed up “God, no I’m not angry just feel foolish . “ she shook her head , her eyes drifting down to the floor .

Richie tucked a finger under Lily’s chin and lifted her eyes to meet his again. “Baby, don’t say that. In a way, you’re better than fans because you don’t pay attention to all the celebrity crap. I admire you for it, really.”

Claire pulled her hand out of Jon’s grasp. “I trusted you. Let you take me to your home,” she paused, “slept with you, all with no notion of who you really were. Are. That’s not fair.” She felt hot tears build up but blinked them away. You are NOT gonna fucking cry in front of them, She told herself.

Fuck ! She was crying, He cursed himself , how he hated seeing a woman cry and worst part was he was the cause of it. “Baby I’m sorry. I didn’t think it would matter so much . I didn’t think I was lying. WE were gonna tell you the truth - honest “ he replied softly.

“How can we not feel foolish ? No wonder those guys today thought we were insane when we had no fuckin’ clue “ Lily replied curtly. She hadn’t felt this stupid since Daniel now all those feelings came flooding back like a big crashing wave.

Richie shook his head, “I hate that you’re feeling this way Lily, really I do, but you have to believe us when we say it was only because we liked the fact that you didn’t know who we are. Just like Kidd said it’s rare these days.”

Claire huffed, “You didn’t think you were lying. Well then, guess that solves the problem.” She pulled away from Jon's hand yet again and made her way for the SUV door. “I’m leaving, Lily are you coming or staying?”

Lily pinched her eyes closed , willing herself not to cry but the tears coated her eyelids as she pulled away  “I told you something I never told hardly anyone especially when I just first met them , you couldn’t trust me enough to tell me..?“ she asked so softly that Richie barely heard her, then she stepped out of the SUV , her eyes meeting his “I thought you were different “ then followed Claire to hail down a cab but not before one sad glance back.

Jon pounded the back of the front seat “Fuck! what the hell were we supposed to do ? “ he growled frustratedly as he watched Claire walk away and potentially out of his life forever.
“I was gonna tell her . I didn’t think we were lying? “

Richie shook his head sadly. “I didn’t either. But the way they see it is more important ya know,” he replied. “I wanna see her again. And I’m gonna guess you wanna see Claire too. We gotta fix this, Kidd.”

Chapter 10

The foursome finished their lunch, still chatting happily until the gentleman had to leave. Each couple whispered sweet ‘thank you’s’ and exchanged phone numbers before Claire shut the door behind them.

“Wow,” she said quietly, meeting her friend’s eyes.

Lily lifted her head from the back of the couch and grinned sheepishly “ I have no words to describe last night and today . But I do think we hit the jackpot “ she winked while reaching for the half bottle of wine and pouring herself a glass .

Claire nodded, flopping down on the couch alongside Lily. “I have words,” she began, winking, “but I’d rather not say them out loud.”

“All I can say is I think Time Square heard me call out his name “ Lily snickered  “Did you know he is 50? God C you wouldn’t know by the way he -- well “ her eyes twinkled with delight.

Claire’s jaw dropped a bit. “Fifty? Wow.” She thought for a moment, “I have no idea how old John is. How sad is that? Early forties I guess, but I dunno. And that’s by looking at him. If I were blind and he just fucked me, I would guess younger,” she snorted.

Lily burst into a fit of giggles “From what Richie said your John is pushing 50 . What he do make a deal with the devil to look that fine ? “

“Pushing 50?” Claire replied incredulously, “You’re shitting me.” She laughed, shaking her head. “Damn, we definitely hit the jackpot. He’s rich too, John at least. I know that sounds shallow but can you believe the luck we’ve literally run into?”

She arched an eyebrow “He’s rich? Wow girlfriend you did hit it good . Don’t know about the mysterious Richie though I don’t think that matters too much after the way he treated me last night. “ Lily paused for a moment , unsure what Claire would have to say about her confession to Richie. “I told him about Daniel “

“Daniel? Wow,” Claire replied thoughtfully, her brow furrowed. “That’s really surprising, but kind of not all at the same time,” she finally said, “You were weirdly comfortable around this guy.”

“I know its the strangest thing .C I never tell anyone about what Daniel did except you and even then it took what a few months before I could even admit it to you. “ Lily shook her head “But there was - is something about this man who made me feel like I could trust him . I know deep down this is just week fling but part of me - I dunno C he made me feel so good and not just the sex either “

Claire nodded, still deep in thought. “I kind of feel the same way,” she said slowly, “I thought I was insane, but I really wouldn’t mind getting to know John. We talked quite a bit last night, believe it or not,” she smirked, “and we have a lot in common. He runs his own charity foundation, Lily, you know how I feel about helping others, hell it’s why I do what I do. He’s funny and charming and -” she paused, “too good to be true.”

“Really ?!  Well sounds like your prince charming has arrived , all the qualities you were wanting are in this John. “ Lily let out a sigh “Richie on the other hand I have no clue what he does other than he travels alot . He could be an ax murder for all I know “

Claire snorted, “With those dimples? He’s way too adorable to pull that off. Maybe he’s just shy.” She paused, grinning, “Okay shy with his words.” she corrected herself. “I think we just need to keep them around for a bit longer. Hell, they gave us their phone numbers obviously they weren’t quite ready to say goodbye either.”I hope,she added inwardly.

“True those dimples are mighty cute “ Lily smiled dreamily  “ They could be fake numbers too ? “ she pointed out,I hope not but do I have the nerve to call him ?  ‘When was the last time we ever gave ours out too ? Shit C . All he had to do was look at me with those puppy dog eyes and I’m a goner, How sad is that ? I just met him for fuck’s sake “

“Not sad at all, actually,” Claire replied quietly, flashing back to Jon’s baby blues. She then grinned impishly, “and there’s only one way to find out if the numbers are fake.” She pulled out her phone and scrolled through until she found the number he had entered in. “Oh,” she said, snorting, “he spells his name J-O-N, who knew?” she said as she hit the call button and putting it on speaker.

Jon’s phone trilled , he reached in his jacket , pulled it out and glanced at the number then smiled “Well hello there.  Didn’t expect to hear from you so soon ? “ he held out the phone showing Richie just who had called .

Claire faltered, trying to think of a reason for calling. “Oh, Jon, sorry I hit the wrong button,” she said quickly, holding back giggles as she hung up on him.

Jon laughed “Wrong button my ass . “ he glanced over at Richie “Wanna bet they wanted to see if the numbers were fake ? “

Richie guffawed, “No betting needed, I guarantee you that’s what they wanted,” he replied, grinning.

Lily nearly fell off the couch laughing “Shit , Claire you hung up on him  “

Claire wiped away tears from laughing so hard, “I panicked!” she replied, gasping for air.

“So its the phone game lets see if they answer “ Jon replied a huge grin spread across his face as he pressed send on his phone .

Claire jumped as her phone began vibrating. “Fuck! Shit! It’s him!!” She half-screamed, “Should I answer?!”

“Here “ Lily grabbed the phone and pressed the speaker button. “We both answer how’s that , Hello ? “ biting back her laughter but not succeeding .

“Ah so I do have the right number but its both of you so its gotta be on speaker “ Jon chortled as he pressed speaker on his so Richie could listen in.

“Yea you got us both though I think Claire has lost her voice “ Lily teased

Claire smacked her friend playfully, “Did not!” she replied, “Sorry I hung up on you Jon, total accident,” she added.

Richie laughed, “Hiya ladies. Claire, I wanna thank you for hanging up on Kidd here, actually,” he said, “it brought his ego down a touch and every little bit helps,” he joked.

“Ow well you’re the one that hung up then said should I answer? “ Lily  continued to taunt her friend jumping out of the way of another smack .

“Fuck you too , Dean .  Are you sure it was an accident baby ? “ Jon asked teasingly.

“Totally and completely sure,” Claire giggled, “Accident to call you in the first place, really. As I said, I hit the wrong button.”

“She lies “ Lily called out , ducking yet again from another near smack.

“Oh are you lying to me? Claire baby “ Jon asked clearly enjoying this banter with these two girls.

Claire glared at her friend jokingly. “Maybe a little,” she said quietly, giggling. “I really called because,” she thought for a moment, “um..”

“She called cuz we thought maybe there was a slight chance you can gave us fake numbers “ Lily piped in to answer for her friend.

Richie laughed, “And why would we do that, darlin’s?”

Claire growled softly, “I wasn’t the one who said it first,” she replied, shooting Lily a loving evil eye before she burst into giggles again.

“I just well- “ Lily stammered “ I mean guys do it all the time . You can’t tell me a few girls haven’t done it to you so - not like we thought we would see you again “ her face flush as she tried to explain her reasoning .

Richie winked at his brother, “I dunno that that’s ever happened to me, how ‘bout you, Kidd?”

“Nope never “ Jon added “Why has it happened to you lovely ladies ? “

“Yea can’t speak for Claire but yea “ Lily admitted quietly .

“And I may or may not have done that to a guy or two in the past,” Claire added sheepishly.

“Aw you naughty girl for shame “ Jon chided  “What would you have done if they had been fake ? “
Claire shrugged, she hadn’t thought about that. “Been bummed?” she replied flat out.

“Really? “ Jon asked , his eyebrow arched .

“Yea we would have “ Lily replied then shot Claire a shocked look that she actually would have been.

Claire nodded, understanding her friend. “Yep, believe it or not,” she joked.

Richie sniffed, “You mean, you like me?!” he asked jokingly, “you really like me??”

“Na I just sleep with men I don’t like “ Lily quipped “ of course you big goof . Or did that kiss goodbye lack the meaning behind it ?? “

“Too bad we have a busy day or I’d have Mark turn the car around right now “ Jon replied with a naughty tone.

Claire shuddered. “When won’t you be busy?” she asked, grinning at Lily.

“Afraid the rest of the week we are jammed pack -- wait hold on a sec “ He placed the girls on hold and flipped thru his schedule on his blackberry , glanced at Richie  before returning to the phone call. “ Looks like Friday we’re free “

“Works for me, how about you Lily?” Claire winked.

“Please say yes, darlin’,” Richie chimed in.

“Definitely works for me too “ Lilly added with a seductive tone.

“Good what would you ladies like to do on Friday , its your day anything you want to do “ Jon answered “So think about it and let us know “

“Will do,” Claire replied, “Don't work too hard now, gents.”

“Will be hard when our minds are somewhere else “ Jon teased “Don’t go finding any other hotties now “

“Oh yea we have them lined up around the corner “ Lily taunted as she laid down on the floor , propped up on her elbows

Richie sniffled again, “Fine, be like that. Guess I’ll just see you around then,” he said wistfully.

Claire rolled her eyes, “Okay hanging up now, ya dorks. We’ll talk to you later.”

“Dorks huh? Well love you too babe “ Jon snorted  “Gotta run don’t do anything we wouldn’t do . Give ya a call later for the details on Friday “

“Byeeeeeeeee “ Lilly called out “You two behave too if we gotta “

“Byeeeeeeee” Richie mimicked playfully, “we’ll try but can’t guarantee anything,” he replied.

Claire hung up, breathing a sigh of relief. “That was weird.” she said, opening up another bottle of wine and pouring herself a glass.

“Na that was fun when was the last time we been that goofy “ Lily laughed as she held her glass out for some wine . “Ok we’re goofy on our own but with men? “

Claire nodded, “It was like that last night, too.” she replied, laughing as she recalled, “I made him dance for me.”

“That bad ? “ Lily joined in her laughter

Claire snorted, “You’d think with that ass he’d be better.” She winced, “not so much.”

“As long as he can move in the bedroom , who cares if he can dance ? “ Lily retorted

“My thoughts exactly,” Claire answered, grinning.

The two ladies spend the rest of the afternoon and evening in their hotel room, hanging out watching movies, chatting and enjoying the fact that they were on vacation and could be as lazy as they wanted.

Chapter 9

Chapter 9

Lily slowly opened her eyes , glancing at the clock it was almost noon , Damn I never sleep this late, as she started to move, her muscles screamed in protest from the events of the night before or should say the wee hours of the mornin’.  She grinned inwardly It had been a damn long time since she had good lovin’ like that . She cast a glance over at the person responsible for her very sore body. 

She stared for a few moments at the handsome face that lay sleeping, a soft snore escaping his lips “So cute . You could be trouble you know that “ she sighed ,  I so could fall in love with you but I can’t no way.  Its just a one nighter that is all Lily remember that! she scolded herself but as she did so her hand crept up and she slid a finger down his jawline.

Richie jerked awake at the soft touch on his face. He grinned, taking in the sleepy lady next to him. “Good morning, darlin’” he said softly, “sleep okay?”

She grinned then placed a sweet kiss on his lips  “I hadn't slept that good in a long time“ 

“Fabulous!” Richie said, raising his voice jokingly. He pulled Lily closer, kissing her deeply. “You, my dear, are pretty damn amazing.”

A blush crept across her cheeks “Stop you can give a girl a complex “ she replied teasingly “ Though have to say my body isn’t too happy with me right now “ she ran her hand across his smooth tanned chest . 

He raised an eyebrow, “You know what would help,” he said slowly, climbing out of bed and scooping her up in his strong arms, “a nice, hot shower. Hell, I’ll even help ya, gentleman that I am.” He strolled into the bathroom and set Lily on the toilet seat while he started the water. 

“I could get used to this pampering, you know “ Lily replied with a sweet smile .

Richie winked as he took her hand and helped her into the shower, and proceeded to wash her slowly with the cloth that hung on the rack. “Every beautiful lady deserves a little pampering,” he answered as he kissed her neck and shoulders. 

Lily leaned back a soft sigh of contentment escaped her lips as well as the lower regions were beginning to warm to his soft touch.  “How could anyone let you go? They must have been out of their head- crazy “ 

Richie smirked, “Everyone makes mistakes darlin’,” he answered, “me included.” He chose not to say anything else as he scrubbed her clean, then handed Lily the cloth. “My turn,” he grinned, wagging his eyebrows. 

She took the cloth and gave him a wicked grin , soaped up the cloth and slid down to his long legs and gently ran the cloth over them,  then slowly worked her way up his tall frame, taking extra care around his hips.

Shooting him a ornery glance , she then took him in her hands ,rubbing so slowly  “And to think I was in love with this shower without you in it “ Lily grinned devilishly.

Richie groaned, he had been trying to be a gentleman but fuck if she didn’t have him acting like a horny teenager. “Lily baby if looks could kill,” he grinned as he met her twinkling eyes. He took her hand and helped her stand back up, kissing her passionately as he softly nudged her up against the wall. 

Lily gasped at the quickness he had her against the wall , her arms encircled his neck as she returned his kisses wholeheartedly. 

Richie slowly slid inside of her, feeling her walls tighten around him as he slowly began to rock her gently against the wall of the shower. Then he grinned, one eyebrow raised. “Poor neighbors,” he winked. 

“I’m not that loud am I ? “ she snickered then buried her face into his chest , biting down as she rode out another wave that crashed around her. Her fingers digging into his shoulders for support.

They climbed higher and higher under the hot spray of the shower, until Richie finally climaxed, his head slumping on Lily’s shoulder. “Damn baby you wear me out,” he sighed jokingly, kissing her forehead sweetly.

“Me? “ she feigned innocence “ You did say it was your turn and I was just doing what you asked! ‘

He chuckled as he rinsed her off once again, then did the same for himself, finally shutting off the water. “Yeah but look you got me all pruny,” he guffawed, showing her his fingers. 

“Aw poor baby “ she took his hand and kissed each finger “You’re fingers are callused, I didn’t take you for a workin’ man? “ 

Richie paused, not yet, let this normalcy last as long as it can, he thought to himself. He shrugged, “I’ve had a long life,” he grinned, “This old man just picks up scars as he goes,” he replied, attempting to distract her with a dazzling smile. 

Lily reached for the towels, handing one to Richie then dried herself off “ You ain’t that old ? “ she quirked an eyebrow “ Are you ? “ 

He laughed, “I dunno, what would your guess be?” he asked, genuinely curious. He knew she was quite a bit younger than he was, definitely. 

“Umm” she gazed him over intently while she slid the towel around her , tucking it securely between her breasts “ In your 40’s - 45 maybe ? “ 

Richie grinned sheepishly as he wrapped his towel around his waist. “Well, I’m flattered. I just turned the big 50, actually,” he replied, running a hand through his hair. 

“Really? You don’t look it “ she smiled flipped her head over and twisting the second towel around her hair .

He laughed softly, “Well that’s good I guess. Especially standing next to Jon, the man’s pushing 50 and barely looks 40 some days,” he rolled his eyes. 

“Yea maybe if you go for the boyish look , I prefer a man “ she winked then ran her hand across his chest . 

Richie guffawed, his head tipping back in laughter. “God, it’s good to hear that some days,” he replied gratefully. 

Lily paused , gazing into the sadness that coated his eyes “ Hey , Its true . You are just what I needed . Hell I didn’t think I was woman enough to keep a man happy and I thank you for that “ she smiled sweetly and with all sincerity.

He pulled her into a hug, kissing the top of her head. “Darlin’, first of all you are one amazingly beautiful woman and you kept me happy all night. Trust me on that one. And second,” he added, tipping her head up and kissing her soft lips,  “thank you.”

OH damn he just had to be so prince  charming like didn’t he ? I’ll never see him again and oh the fuck well go with it Lily for as long as it lasts. “Thank me for what ? “ 

Richie grinned sweetly, “I’ve needed this for a long time.” he replied simply.

~~~~~~~~~~

Claire rolled over slowly, watching the gorgeous man that slept beside her, one arm draped over her chest. She chuckled at the drool stain on his pillow, rolling her eyes. You are too damn adorable, she giggled, yet sexy as fuck too. She scooted over, curling up close and running her fingers through the few curls that draped over his closed eyes. I could get used to you.

Jon yawned then peered through cracked eyelids and flashed a boyish smile “Mornin’ “ he stretched then sat up against the headboard “What time is it ? “ 

“Noon,” Claire replied, smirking. “Why, problem?”

His eyes widened “You’re shittin’ me ?!! I never sleep that late “ He bellowed “Na , well not til later have a meeting at 4 “ he shook his head with disbelief.

Claire reached up and kissed his frown, “Chill, hon,” she said, laughing softly, “You have plenty of time. You were tired,” she winked.

He chuckled “ Yea, just never happens is all “ then reached over and brushed a stray hair out of her face.  “So what do you have planned for the day ? “ 

She grabbed his strong hand, holding it tightly in hers. “Hadn’t planned anything specific,” Claire replied, “but I should probably meet back up with my travel buddy eventually,” she grinned.

“Hey! Since I  prolly have to pick up my buddy why don’t we all have lunch together” Jon suggested as he leaned in dropping a kiss on her lips.

Claire nodded, “That works just fine. I just need my phone and I’ll check in with Lily,” she slowly rolled out of bed and wrapped a blanket around her body before padding out to the living room where she’d left her clutch. 

“Okay that kills two birds with one stone “ Jon chortled “I’m gonna take a quick shower feel free to join me when you’re done “ he waggled his eyebrows then padded off to the bathroom.

She dug her mobile out and sent her friend a quick message, then tucked it away again, grinning as she heard him start the shower in the bathroom. She tiptoed in, watching silently through the glass door as Jon stood with his back to her under the water. She dropped the blanket, slid open the door and stepped in, wrapping her arms around him and placing her hands on his chest. “You sir,” she giggled, “really have to have the greatest ass I have ever seen...”

An hour and not so quick shower later,  Jon and Claire were headed back to the hotel . “So whatta think of NY so far “ He asked with a devilish twinkle in his eye while he drove threw the afternoon traffic . 

“I really do love it here,” Claire answered, “I came once with my parents when I was little, but haven’t been back since. I tend to stray from big cities these days,” she rolled her eyes, grinning, “This trip though has been quite eventful already, I have to admit,” she winked. 

He reached over and rubbed her leg “Yea have to say I’m glad I was home for a change or I might have missed out on your company “ 

“Do you travel a lot with your charity work?” she asked, curious as she took his hand in hers. 

Jon bit his bottom lip , debating how to word his profession “Yea and work also takes me away from home alot “ 

Claire looked over at him, “Work other than your foundation?”

“Yea, I’m a businessman “ Which was the truth , he did run a business so he wasn’t lying 

She nodded, “Obviously a successful one, judging by that fabulous penthouse,” she replied, laughing softly.

He joined in her laughter “Yea after many years of busting my ass “  

“Well then congrats are in order,” Claire grinned, squeezing his hand as they pulled up in front of her hotel. 

He smiled , threw the car into park ,stepped out of his Hybrid, handed his keys to the valet and walked to around to open her door “Thanks you’re just too sweet “ he reached for her hand and helped her out of the car. 

She shrugged, “I try,” she winked. “You’re pretty gentlemanly yourself ya know,” she added as they walked through the lobby and into the elevator. 

“Well ,only to lovely ladies like yourself “ He winked “My friend would tell you a different story , that I’m an asshole “ 

A few moments later they were on Claire’s floor and headed towards her suite.  “Wonder if they’re decent “ He grinned ornerly.

“I texted her what, an hour and a half ago?” Claire chucked, “I sure as hell hope so!” She slid her key in and opened the door, playfully covering her eyes as she stepped in. “We’re here!” she called out, “is it safe?!”

“Of course its safe why wouldn’t it be? “ Lily feigned innocence  “We been waiting to order lunch whatcha do stop and have a quickie before you got here “ 

Richie barked in laughter at the embarrassed facial expression that flicked over Jon’s face for a split second. “Wouldn’t surprise me in the least,” he joked.

“Fuck you , oh Lily did he pull let me help you line “ He guffawed as he pulled out a chair for Clair then seated himself beside her.

It was Lily’s turn to blush , she dipped her head down starting intently on her  glass of soda.

Claire snorted, “She probably faked needing help in the first place to get him to ask,” she winked at her best friend. 

“I DID NOT!  I had some serious aches and pains “ Lily protested adamantly , her gaze held steadfast on the glass, refusing to meet their amused looks. 

Richie chuckled, taking Lily’s hand. “I was just being a gentleman,” he added, backing her up.

Jon nodded “Sure , you were just so gentlemanly in the shower . Coffee baby? “ he asked reached for the silver container then poured himself a cup then leaned over to fill Claire’s.

The joyful banter continued as the 2 couples ordered and waited for their lunch to arrive.