Chapter 18 Your chariot awaits

The two were just sitting around their hotel room one day. No interviews, no sound check, and not enough down time to do anything. So they decided to stay in and linger over another cup of coffee and relax. Richie was watching the morning news when Teri approached the “Darlin’” conversation.

She walked over and sat on the couch next to Richie. Then she snuggled up to his side, and tucked her feet under one of the couch cushions. Richie put his arm around his girl and kept watching the news.

“Richie?”

“Mmmm.”

“Can we talk?”

“Mmm hmm.”

“Now?”

“Huh? Ter, can it wait for a commercial?”

Teri sat back, took Richie’s arm from around her shoulder, and let it flop onto his lap. He never even noticed she was annoyed.

Okay, I’m pissed, but there is no reason to be. I’m annoyed that he won’t talk to me. He has no clue what I want to talk about, or that it’s important. To me. To talk. About it. Now. When he is watching the news. Okay, my timing sucks. There is no reason to be mad at him. But, damn it. He should KNOW. I want to talk this out. He shouldn’t brush me off until a commercial. He’s such an ass.

But, he has such a cute ass… And he’s so gentle and kind. He loves to cuddle too.

Okay. Hormones. Stop. Please. My period is over and I’m gettin’ a bit annoyed with all this up and down you are doing with my moods.

A commercial came on and Teri waited for Richie to take the lead. He didn’t. Teri was even more annoyed. Even after the conversation she just had with herself.

“Are you ever goin to talk to me?” Teri questioned.

Richie looked up. Whoops. Hormonal woman in the room.

“Sorry honey, he soothed. What’s up?”

Mollified, Teri decided she could talk to him, now that she had his attention.

“Why do you call all the girls ‘Darlin’?”

Talk about an outta the blue question. He thought.

“It’s become your signature. I don’t wanna be called that because, it makes me feel like one of the masses. If that’s all I am to you, then I’m outta here. Time for me to go home and find a new job.”

“First off, you need an assistant, not a job.”

Teri glared at him. That was so beside the point.

Richie saw the error of his ways. He knew he’d better nip this one in the bud. It could get ugly real fast. So he thought fast, the thought again. Nah, on second thought I probably should just tell her the truth. It’s not worth the repercussions. He rationalized.

“When I was in high school, I had girls all over me. I was on the basketball team. I was also in a Garage Band. After the accordion of course, and that was sooooo cool. It made me a “Bad Boy Rocker” in my high school. You know what I mean, There were girls along the way too through my California, and then when Bon Jovi started there were too many girls to count!”

“I didn’t go looking for them. Honest!” He said after a look from Teri. It was the universal, ‘And you expect me to believe THAT’ look all men around the world are very aware of.

 “They came after me. By the bus load. I mean hundreds! I couldn’t think of any logical reason to turn all that sex down. So, I didn’t. When it started happening in Bon Jovi I got the label ‘King of Swing’ and all that other shit."

“I got married and my ‘Tom Follery’ days stopped on a dime.” But, up until then it was like I was open season.  They hunted me down. I didn’t have to go after them at all.

“Did you ever hear the story about how David bribed Tico to sell tickets? I think those assholes made a ton of money that night from the waiting girls. T was a carnival barker. You know what I’m talking about. ‘Step right up. The line forms here to slee…, see Richie…” Red Alert!  Red Alert!  Another of THOSE looks.

 “Anyway, What the hell! I wasn’t hurtin’ anyone,” He declared. “So, after that, I found it was easier to call every girl I met as Darlin’ It made them feel special and I didn’t have to worry about their names. Hell, when they feel special they tend to put out more.” Okay, maybe a little TOO much information. With that last one.

Teri was quiet. She thought about it for a minute. She part of her couldn’t see anything wrong with it at the time. She just felt bad for all those girls…. Over all those years…. Feeling they were special by being called Darlin’. The other half of her was pissed off. Not even trying to remember their name? There were SO MANY?

“So, when you call me darlin’, I’m one of the masses. Not sure I want that my friend.”

Richie decided he wanted to show her she was “Not one of the masses.” He just didn’t know how.

***                              ***                              ***                              ***                              ***

They fell asleep. On their own sides of the bed that night. Okay, Teri should be off her period today. Maybe I counted wrong. He rationalized. But, still… There ARE things we could do … and have done in the not so distant past….

The next morning Teri informed Richie her period was over. It had been a very long few days. Thank God, she normally has a short one. This shit doesn’t happen when on tour. We planned it out. Richie grinned and didn’t give it another thought as he grabbed Teri around the waist and bent his head in for a kiss. A long one.

Teri succumbed to Richie’s advances even though she was pissed. But, maybe it was more indignation for those poor girls who …  Wait a minute. What’s wrong with it? In Richie’s mind, and probably the mind of more men than I care to think about, it’s okay. If the girls don’t know and haven’t figured it out let them live the fantasy. As Richie’ said it DID make them feel special. Though the end result … Aww hell. Teri. You spent enough time on this. It is what it was. You can’t change the past and he knows how you feel. Even if he says it with that bad cockney accent.

Teri smiled and went about her day. As far as Richie was concerned it was hormones so he too went about his day. All was good. They flew from one gig to the next as usual. Everyone was in a good mood which was getting rare as the tour progressed.  Lemma was harassing Jon which was quite funny. He was trying to get Jon to hire Teri as their cookie baker. He thought she should come on board in that capacity.

“… AND, Teri can keep old Romeo here sane, and calm,

Jon took one look at Teri’s gaping mouth.

“Man, you better get yourself out of the dog house before we talk about hiring the cookie girl here. Besides we still have a ton left Teri checked a suitcase just for the cookies!

David looked at Teri and decided it was in HIS best interest to shut up about the cookies. For now… He would come up with plan B. It better be quick though. Really quick.

***                                          ***                              ***                                                                  

Teri laughed to herself, as they got to their room for the night.

“What’s so funny?” Richie asked as he came out of the bathroom after he put his bathroom stuff on the counter. Teri would put it away in its usual places later.

She started to sing to him.

“Another op’nin, another show,
In Philly, Boston, or Baltimo’
A chance for stage folks to say hello
Another op’nin’, of another show.…”  

 from Cole Porter’s Kiss Me Kate musical. Teri sang it as she danced over to Richie.

 “I keep hearin’ that in my head every time we hit another damn hotel room. I am so sick of the same shit day after day. Don’t know how you do it baby. I’m beginning to go a little batty here.”

Richie agreed.  A plan formed in his mind

***                              ***                              ***                              ***

“Hey, do we have any cookies left?” Richie asked as he headed to the living room where he last saw the container of cookies earlier that day when they got to their room.

Teri went to say something but, saw that Richie was already in the living room. Well, He’ll find out soon enough. She thought.

“LEMMA. DAMN IT MAN!,” Richie stomped to the door, yanked it open and yelled again into the hallway.

 “LEMMA!”

Tico opened his door.

“What the fuck man?” He questioned. Annoyed at the disturbance to his phone call. He held the phone in his hand as he stood in the hall.  

“Lemma finished the cookies.”

“Already?” Tico asked.

Richie upturned the empty container as proof.

“Gotta call you back.” Tico said into his phone.

Life is as usual on the road.

           

                        ***                   ***                               ***                               ***                                          

The days began to blend together. One day was the same as the next. Get up. Get on the plane. Get to the hotel. Unpack, then the boys did interviews. Get to sound check. Do the show. After party then some sleep. Get up. Get on the plane. Get to the hotel...

Out of the blue Richie said one afternoon as they were lounging around their hotel room after some beautiful, slow, passionate sex.

“Ter, how would you like to cut free for a day?”

“What do you mean?”  Teri questioned.

“Take off. Be free. Go sightseeing. See a movie. Do what normal people do?”

“Baby, your life is far from normal. How do you propose this little dream of yours is gonna happen?”

“I rented a car, and we’re gonna to drive to the next gig.”

“What!” Teri screamed. “No way baby, no way. Where are we going?  How long? How did this happen?”

Richie looked at Teri, and smiled a broad dimple filled smile. She called it his honest smile. Not one for the fans, or cameras, but a true smile that only people close enough to him recognize and know it as sincere.

“Well, not long honey. Only about 39-40 hours but, it will be enough time to cut lose and be normal. We’ll leave after the gig tomorrow night and have almost two whole days to get to our next gig. We have a turnaround day so it will work perfectly.

After the show, the couple said good bye to their friends, grab their overnight bags and left the venue quickly. The rental car waited outside the stage door for them.

“Honey, the car’s perfect.” Teri said.

Richie rented a mustang for them.

“I hope you’re gonna be comfortable. I wanted a great car and this was the best I could find.”

“After being cramped up in the plane seat, I think I can deal with this one just fine Rich. It’s more than perfect for us.”

Richie took their overnight bags and stowed them in the trunk. He then went around to Teri’s door and opened it.

“Your chariot awaits M’lady.” He stated and bowed deeply.

Teri gave a low curtsey.

 “Why, thank you kind sir.” Teri gave him her hand the way a princess would, by her fingers only, and he helped her into the car.

“Baby, we are free -  let’s roll.”

Richie hit the gas, did a donut in the parking lot, and they roared out of the lot into the street, then onto the highway.

“So, what’s the game plan Captain Richie?”

“We’re gonna drive for about six hours until we get to our next show city, and then we have a day and a half, well under that bit it sounds good, before the guys show up.”

“Oh, I don’t think I knew we were that close to the next arena. This will be perfect. Good planning on your part Hon. I love your idea. So, what hotel are we staying at? Oh wait, I have the schedule in my bag. I didn't look at it today.”

She leaned over the back of the bucket seat to grab her purse. Richie whacked her upturned ass.

“Sit your ass down girl. I’m drivin’ here,” He said with a bad Jersey accent. I don’t need no distraction of your ass waving in the air. My concentration’s on your ass not the road. So sit it down girl.”

After Teri sat with a pout. Richie ran his free hand down her leg.

“No hotel, little one. I rented a house for twenty-four hours. It’ll be a home. Maybe not our home, but a place we can be where there’s no wake up calls, or the guys, or vocal warm ups, or the guys, or band business meetings, or the guys, or interviews, or the guys, or anything. We can decide to do what we want, when we want. Just like real people.”

Teri tucked the “Real people.” Comment away to mull over at another time.

“I love it. And I love you for thinking of it. This is so perfect.” Teri leaned over and kissed Richie’s cheek. He took her hand as he drove down the highway. They are quiet, lost in the thought of being totally alone for hours and the bliss that will bring them. 

Teri fell asleep on the drive. Her head was against the door window, and she was curled up in a ball. Richie tugged her hair.

“Huh?”

“Rise and shine sleepy head we’re here.” He sang out.

“Baby, I slept the whole last part of their drive.  I’m so sorry.”  Teri said as she looked at her watch and noticed the time.

She looked around the car, and, saw burger wrappers, fries’ containers, a couple of empty soda to-go cups, and it smelled like onion rings. The windows were up and the top was down.

“My man had a little fast food feast I see,” Teri said with a smile. “Did you save me a one?”

“Yup, I dropped a few on the floor, let me get them for you.”

“WHAT!!!” Teri laughed. “No way I want a food.”

“And baby, I want you.”

“Feed me first mister, or there’ll be no nookie for you.”

Richie slammed the car into reverse. Headed out of the driveway, and down the road, before Teri knew what was going on. He swung into a fast food place on the main road. He ordered three burgers, three extra-large fries. (The burgers were so big you couldn’t get your hands around it.) A couple of chocolate shakes, a vanilla one for Teri, and a few orders of onion rings. Pulled around to the window, paid for the food, and almost threw it all at Teri as he slammed the car into gear again and drove back to the house. By this time Teri laughed so hard she has tears in her eyes.

“Honey, I would have been fine with a piece of gum.” She dissolved into a fit of the giggles.

“Gum, GUM, GUM! You wanted GUM!”

“Just sayin babe."

Chapter 17 Piggy Back rides

Chapter 17

The next afternoon on the way to breakfast with the boys Teri forgot her sunglasses in the room and went back for them.  Richie first waited at the door but then started toward the elevator.

Next thing he heard was Teri as she ran down the hall.  “Wait up, or give me a ride,” She decided on the ride. She jumped and landed on Richie’s back. It was a good thing he braced himself. Teri leaned around and kissed his cheek. “To breakfast please.”  She said with no intention of getting off.

Together they go down the elevator to their waiting group of friends. Rich plays along and doesn’t let Teri down. She loves this.

                                                     ******                      ******

Later that night when they get to the arena Teri hops on his back again and they are run down the hallway as they laughed. Jon poked his head out of his dressing room, looked, shook his head, then closed his door.

Curley pokes his head out of his dressing room to see what the commotion was all about. Curley turns to T who was in the hall.

 “Don’t even thought about it.” T stated in his dry humorous way.

The roadies thought it was great and love the playfulness of the couple. This becomes the norm for Richie and Teri. A lot of time Richie could be seen giving his girl a piggy back ride, or Teri would be hopping on his back (usually standing on a chair to do so).  They even have had relay races with Curley and someone from crew, usually their wardrobe manager around the parking lot of a venue. If Teri has done nothing else she has made the wait time more tolerable for sure. Piggy back races, the guy usually has to hold a female on his back while they run the obstacle course, thank goodness they do this one on the grass.

Teri went out one day to the nearest department store and bought things like squirt guns and Frisbees. She gave some blow up beach balls to the crew in the busses to play with on the long rides from show to show. Everyone have had a ton of fun with those. Not only waiting for sound check but in the hotels also.

One day Teri went out and got something called a super soaker.  She bought two.   They went in and soaked Curley in his room one afternoon which started a water fight, everyone involved got into trouble with the tour manager because hotel management gave him shit for it. And well, then they were taken away.

 But a resourceful Teri went out early the next day and bought a bunch more. Ssshhhh they are now stored on the bus. The roadies would do anything for her, and gladly hide them from anyone in authority.  A lot of the time when Richie can’t find her, she would be on a tour bus playing poker or dancing in the streets to some boom box or another with the crew.

                                     *****                         *****                           *****

Richie flew his mom and uncle to a performance when they were still in the dating phase of their relationship, down to Florida, for a visit and to just hang out.  His dad was gone by this time and Richie’s Uncle Joe picked up the slack for his brother. When they arrived, Richie couldn’t find Teri and was pretty upset. This was the first time that Teri would meet Joan, Richie’s mother. She knew they were due in that morning.  When Ma and Uncle Joe arrived at the hotel, they saw a bunch of people horsing around with squirt guns on the side lawn near the pool. They both smiled and went in to the hotel lobby where Richie was waiting for them. Well, he paced the floor as he waited for them.

“Hey Ma, Uncle Joe. How was your trip?”  he asks, with an enormous smile on his face.

“Great Richie.” said Uncle Joe

 “Why are you wasting money on first class Richie? We’re fine in coach.”

Richie wrapped his Ma in a hug.

 “Cause I can afford to. If I can’t upgrade for my family who can I upgrade for?”

“This girl of yours, who we haven’t met yet. Where is she?”  Mrs. Sambora asked.

At that moment, Jon showed up and it was more hugs and kisses all around.

 “Yeah, where is she Rich?” asked Jon with a look of mischief in his eyes.

 “What do you know man?” Richie questioned, not sure what Jon was up to.

 “Follow me.” the front man said with a laugh.

 He led the Sambora’s out the back of the hotel to the pool.

There in the middle of a crowd of people, was Teri with her super soaker, hitting one and all who got in her way with blasts of water.

“Go on Richie, get that thing from her. She got Obie earlier though, it was the highlight of my day.”  Jon stated.

 Richie looked at his Uncle who nodded and his mom who smiled.  He gave a yell, and ran around the side of the hotel pool and into the middle of the group. Teri tried to soak him but he was quicker. He scooped up his girlfriend and ran as she screamed in delight. Through the open gate that surrounds the pool and straight into the deep end they go.

They broke the water surface, sputtered and laughted. Ma waited for them at the edge of the pool with towels. They both got out. But, not before he must admit, Richie considered a tug on Ma’s outstretched hand so she fell into the pool too.

The crew clapped and yelled out in Richie’s favor.  One of them shouted out.  “Finally, somebody took her down.”

Teri yelled back. “Just you wait! This ain’t over yet. Revenge will be mine. And I ain’t talking about Richie!”

Everyone laughed. Formal introductions were made. But, not before Richie wrapped Teri in his towel as her t-shirt had become transparent, and well, she was with his Mom…

Joan said, “Get a hot shower, and let’s have some lunch to get better acquainted.”

Teri knew a command performance when she hears one and readily agreed. She knew it was bound to happen so better to get it done first thing.

 These two become fast friends over lunch. And Richie beamed because of it. Uncle Joe seemed to like her too. Richie waited until he had a moment alone with him to ask. “So, what do you think of Teri Uncle J?”

He looked at his nephew, “I like her, she seems like someone who will keep things lively.”

“Besides that Uncle Joe, what do you really think?” His uncle sat back in his chair in the lobby. They waited for Richie’s Mom to go see the sites in town. Since Jon and Richie had interviews scheduled Teri and Richie won’t join them.

“Son, is she someone special to you?”

“Very much so Uncle Joe.”

The senior Sambora smiles at Richie.

 “Follow your heart Richie. If you love her, then you will know if it’s love /lust, or real love. Keep listening to that heart of yours.  I did with your aunt and we have been happy. I know your father is watching over you and look at the sunshine. He approves.”

“Thanks Uncle Joe, but I guess what I am asking is do you and Ma approve?”

 “Funny you should ask that,” Richie’s heart sank at these words. “Your Mother and I were talking and we both feel that even though we have known Teri for such a short time we like her. I will speak for your Mother and myself and say yes Richie, we do approve. We feel you deserve happiness, and, as long as she was accepting of Ava, and she of Teri, then you will be where you should be. Put Heather behind you Richie and find happiness again that is what we really want for you.”

The two men hug just as Teri and Joan hit the lobby.

“Male bonding?” Teri asked as she sat on the arm of Richie’s chair.

 “Something like that." Richie replied. The men stood and they all walk his family to their rental car.

 “See you at sound check in a few hours Mr.  Sambora, Mrs. Sambora.” Teri said as they make their way across the parking lot.

Joan stopped, took Teri’s hands in hers, looked into her eyes, and said “Mom or Ma, and Uncle Joe Teri, Ma, and Uncle Joe.”

Richie beams at his mother.

 “Thanks Ma, Uncle Joe.” Teri said and gave them both a kiss on the cheek. Richie kissed his family too as they got into their rental car. 

Then Teri looks up at Richie, bats her eyes a few times at him, and gives a pretty pout. He sighs dramatically though he really didn’t mean it, and hunches down. Teri hops on his back for a ride. Richie’s Ma took out her camera for a few pictures, and they both laugh as the two leave. Richie and his girlfriend ran across the parking lot like a couple of kids.

Chapter 16 Backstage

Amid many shouts, back slaps, and high fives, the boys came off stage. It was very apparent to Teri who was once again in Richie's quick change. The noise was almost louder than the show. Denise brought her in halfway through the last song of the last encore. She had gotten a signal from Richie that it was their last, so she showed Teri the way and then left her there so she could greet some friends Richie had at the show this evening. They were not close friends, but friends just the same. He wanted to say hello to them and see if next time through maybe they can meet for dinner or something. This trip it didn't work out for that.

Teri looked around. On the table was all the usual hair stuff, bottles of water, some beer in a cooler and the like. There was a mirror. To it was taped a few pictures. A couple of Ava she recognized. Even if she never saw the child before there would be no doubt she was Richie and Heather’s. There were a few pictures of older people Teri correctly surmised were his parents. A few others in groups were probably friends or family.

Moving from the table she noticed a couple of tour cases. Both were open showing t-shirts, jackets, and pants. On top of one had a couple of Richie's hats. Teri's hand itched to grab one. She refrained. Barely.

After a complete nosey look at his quick change area Teri sat on one of the 2 folding chairs there.

Richie burst into the room at top speed. Towel around his neck and almost ripping his sopping wet t-shirt off. He saw her and stopped. I can't believe I forgot she was here. The whole show I kept thinking it was taking forever to get through tonight's performance. Now that it's done I forget she's here? Someone call a Doctor. I need a shot or something!

"Baby, I got these people waiting for me."

"I totally get it," Teri replied. "Just tell me where to go to get out of your way. I can hook up with Denise if she's not busy or something."

Richie looked at her. Well, fool. Now you hurt her feelings. She's not Jon you know. She can't read your mind yet and you can't read hers. It takes years for that. Twenty-four hour a day years.

"No baby. I was just sayin' I can't do this."

He pulled her close.

"Or this." He raised her chin.

"Or this." He purred as he went in for a kiss.

He broke the kiss. She pouted.

"It won't take long Darlin'."

"Um, Rich...."

"Yeah?" He replied. His mind was already on getting rid of his friends quick. He'll fly out to see them next break to make it up. 

"Aww forget it. It can wait." Teri said.

 I've got to tell him that Darlin' thing is for fans. I don't feel anything when he says that to me. It’s not special.  She thought.

Richie did a quick change. Grabbed her hand and started out the doorway to meet up with some friends.

I really gotta tell him my feelings on that 'Darlin'' crap. Teri thought as they went toward the green room where the band could chat with friends and family after the show.

Teri left Richie to talk with friends. She headed to the bathroom. After she was done Teri couldn’t resist a quick look around backstage. She was wondering if they signed the wall like theatre people do.

Teri lost track of time. She got to meet the roadies. Just quick hello though because they were working. Their downtime is during a show. Right after, they have to tear down, and drive to the next city. Where they set it up, and tear it down again, and again, city, after city.

She couldn't find any wall signatures or murals which made her sad. Teri thought the tradition carried to all performing arts.  She also learned that in arenas there is usually no ghost light to help the good ghosts see in the dark, to keep the bad spirits away.

I guess just because they perform doesn’t mean their rituals are the same. 

She decided. On her way back she ran into Richie. He was wondering where she got to. Even a woman doesn't take half an hour to pee.

"Where did you go?" Richie asked as he grabbed her arm.

"I was wandering around meeting people and looking for your signature wall." Teri said a little out of breath due to the fast pace He kept walking at.

He found what he was looking for. Richie turned and lifted Teri onto a rolling tour case. He made sure the wheels were locked. Yup did that one before. He was doing some groupie behind the stage and they almost were the next act as the case started to roll toward the stage being torn down by roadies.

"What are you...?" Mmmmmm Teri said as Richie started to kiss her hard.

He was grinding up against her legs. She slowly parts her legs understanding what was going to happen.

The noise around them fades. All that either hear were their groans of pleasure.

"I'm sorry Darlin'. It's gonna be hard and fast. I've missed you so much. Need you. Now."

DAMN HIM! Teri screamed to herself. There's that word again. Fuckin' A!

As their kisses grew more passionate, Teri forget her dislike of the word Darlin'. She gave herself up to Richie's advances. She was more than willing to go to second base. Hell, she even went to third on an occasion or two at the theatre.

Richie was a man on a mission.

"Here. Now." He stated.

That was the only warning Teri got. He grabbed her waist and sat her on top of a tour case. Checked that the wheels were locked, he had done it once before and the wheels were NOT locked. Imagine her surprise when she started to roll sans a top or bra toward the stage. She just calmly walked back and took up where they left off. 

But I digress. Back to the story.

Their kisses intensified. Their hands more frantic. There was no turning back now even if they wanted to.  One or the other was in such a state, that stopping was not even an option.

“It’s going to be hard and fast. Baby, it has to be like this.” Richie stated as he started to remove some of Teri’s clothes to access her quickly. Richie wore no underwear.

Teri went along. She was turned on. And to be honest, there really was no choice.

Richie can turn her on easily. All Teri has to do is look into his eyes. Those eyes, those beautiful deep pools of chocolate eyes.

Richie is the best lover she ever had. Ever. He lived up to his reputation every time. What reputation? If it was sexual ANY reputation.

He dropped his pants and entered her quickly. Wrapping his hands on her hips he had to remember to slow down. He almost didn’t. Teri and he hadn’t had sex in about three weeks. Richie slowly entered. Once he was in. She took in a big breath, gasp really. It has been awhile. Richie started moving. Slow at first then more frantic. Teri held onto Richie’s shoulders and prayed he didn’t launch her into next week. That’s how hard and fast he went at it.

A couple of roadies were on their way to grab some cases. They heard the familiar sound of sex. Not unusual. Hell, they both had done it with some girl or another who wanted to meet the band and would do ANYTHING. A few smirks and they both turned around and walked away. Happened before. Will happen again. Just don’t let JBJ hear about it. Easy.

“Oh my God you feel amazing.” She exclaimed.

“It’s all for you baby. Here we goooo.” Richie moaned as his orgasm was building.

His solid body slapping against her. She loved the way he made her feel. A little slut is good for the mind, body, and soul now and again. 

Groaning with pleasure. She flexed. He grunted his appreciation.

She felt like a groupie, and it was pretty cool.  

"I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. I missed you Ter. So much. Celibacy is not something I do well babe. I’m glad you’re finally here."

"I'm glad I'm here too Richie. But, can we dress now? I really don’t want to give the road crew more of a show than I think they already got."

She wasn't mad. Especially when she heard the word celibate. THAT said so much to Teri.

The tour went well. Teri and Richie had a great time. They saw some sites. Actually broke a bed at the Four Seasons. Had a lot of fun with the guys too. Teri found out what a joker Lemma really was and understood the nickname and tattoo.

Then it happened.

Richie got a phone call.

Chapter 15 On her way

She was on her way to the airport. Excited and a little bit apprehensive. Bestie Gloria was driving her to JFK. It was a good hour and Forty-Five minute drive where the two can talk away. A quick stop at Dunkin Donuts for coffee and they are off.

"Did I bring my book?" Teri asked

"Yup in your carry-on. I also slipped in a couple of the scripts you have been saying you wanted to read. Figured just because the theatre closed doesn’t mean another one won't need a director."

Teri smiled. Her friend got her.

"Oh, what about the cookies I made?"

Gloria smiled. Teri was a little freaked out to be going on tour. She was patient with her friend. She had to be. This is what Teri was all about. A little forgetful, but a huge generous soul.

They chatted about this and that.

When Gloria took the exit she smiled remembering a few years ago Teri forgot how to get to the airport. She was on the phone with her brother, who is a cross country truck driver. He said to her 'Just look for the orange cone at the exit. I cant remember the exit number but that will get you on 678 which will put you right at the airport.' Damn it the cone was there.

Gloria got her curbside to American Airline her favorite carrier. They both got out and an attendant got the luggage out of the back.

"Its a good thing that Richie is know for his extensive luggage on tour." Gloria said as the attendant lifted Teri's three suitcases and carry-on out of the back of her SUV.

The two girls hug.

"Safe travels my friend. Call when you get there." Gloria said as they broke their hug.

"I will." Teri was off with a wave.

The flight was pretty much uneventful. There was a crying baby back in coach. The attendant tried to apologize to everyone in First Class but Teri along with her 4 other passengers just waved the woman off. They understood.

At the airport she was met by a Bon Jovi staff member. Teri was surprised. She figured at the least Denise would be there. The staffer told Teri when he dealt with her luggage, and ushered her to the car, that there were issues at the Arena and Richie along with all the band members went there early. But, Teri still had hours if she wanted to freshen up and take a nap or something. You could tell his mind was on what was going on at the Arena that he was missing and not his passenger.

"Hey Glor, I made it fine. Teri said on her friends voice mail. Seems there are issues at the Arena so I was met by someone on the Bon Jovi staff. I guess Richie is there with the guys so I probably won't see him till after the show. Of course I'll wish him Break a Leg from you. I'm impressed. Some of my theatre background is rubbing off on you! Love you too. Talk to you later."


As Teri left her message, the staffer realized he was not being as nice as he could be, let alone should be to Richie's guest. He assumed she was a one night stand bimbo, from another state, but, hearing her part of the phone call made him think he made a mistake. Not to mention the three suitcases and a carry-on that she showed up with. That for sure is not a one nighter.

Teri ended the phone call and replaced her cell into her pocketbook. Her escort then spoke.

"Hey, I'm really sorry I was a little cold to you. I just thought you were..." He stopped realizing he couldn't call her a bibbo to her face."

"I was?" Teri prompted.

"Going to be one of those nose in the air people." He improvised.

"Nah, not me. I'm probably one of the more down to earth people around."

She smiled and then looked out the window. She knew he was covering his tracks with the inflection of his voice, just not what he was covering up.

The ride was not too long. They were in close proximity to the venue and the airport. She will be riding in The Jovi Jet with the boys from here on out until she went home.

" Is there any way to get most of my stuff on the Jovi Jet without going to the hotel? I think it would be easier. Especially when we are all running around in the morning."

He smiled at her. He can make it right between them now. He felt bad for his earlier assessment.

"The boys don't run around in the morning. They have people to do that for them. He said with a smile. Most of the guys have their stuff ready and at the door in the morning for whoever is in charge of luggage that day. The rest is usually carried on by their P.A.'s, or, them personally. I'll have it scanned and loaded now. I'm heading there to get all the luggage on the plane as we are taking off directly after the show tonight."

By this time they were pulling up to the boys's hotel. Teri was impressed and happy she dressed up a bit so she didn't look too shabby on the plane. The Westin is a nice hotel. She forgot where they were staying even after she looked at the itinerary on the plane.

Teri's door was opened, and a hand was at the ready to help her out. She appreciated the service of a nice hotel. Teri walked around to the trunk, and pulled out one of the small suitcases

 "This one is good for the time left here. I just want to take a shower and freshen up before I need to get to the Arena. "

Once in Richie's suite Teri took a luxurious shower and then took out her concert outfit, and with extra care did her make-up. Very tight in the butt jeans, a white silk cami that barely reached her waist, and a soft black leather jacket. Black heels with zipper up the back of the shoes, jewelry, and perfume and she was ready to go. Teri added her travel bag to the couple of suitcases Richie had stacked by the door after she took out her travel outfit for the morning. She grabbed her cell, put some money, a credit card, and her license in her pocket, and she was ready to go.

In the lobby, Teri realized she forgot to see if the car could pick her up again and take her over to the venue. So, off she went to find a cab. Of course, she couldn’t find one. There was a Bon Jovi concert in town. All transportation was booked. Just as she was dialing Richie against her better judgment, the kid who brought her from the airport was at her side. I really should know his name. Teri thought.

"I was just calling Richie's room," He said a little annoyed. "Time to go. I thought I would have to wake you by pounding on the door. There was no answer."

Teri's feathers got ruffled.

"There was no conversation about times, or where, or if I was on my own or not." She said with a huff.

"Well, we found each other and my car is right over there." He took her elbow, and half escorted, half rushed Teri to the car.

"Oh, no. I'll find my own way damn it. Just give me my credentials. I am NOT getting in a car with you. Your attitude is too big for us all to fit."

With that she held out her hand, and started tapping her foot. The staffer didn't see any way out. He was told to bring her in and deliver her to Richie. He couldn't not do it.

"Look, again, I'm sorry. My job is on the line if I don't personally deliver you to my boss. Which for this task is Richie."

Little did he know Teri still blamed herself for what happened to what she had come to know as 'her' theatre.She was still raw and took it out on others. She looked hard at him.

"Two things. First, Don't ever talk down to me or anyone like that again. Second, where are my credentials? What's your name? I forgot. And how do I find Richie?"

"That was four." He said.

"Deal with it." Teri said with a smile. She realized she was harsh.

"I won't. In an envelope on the back seat of the limo. Sean, and I'll take you to him."

Things were fine again.

The limo stopped at a checkpoint at the entrance to the arena. Then again about halfway in. She had to produce her id even though she was encased in one of the limos provided for the band. Security was always tight once the guys got to the venue. Once the fans were let in there was no telling to what lengths they would go to get backstage.

Teri was literally delivered to Richie.

"I got it from here." She stated over her shoulder as she walked toward her man.

He was on stage warming up his fingers and at the same time doing a sound check for his guitar. He was wandering around as he was playing and bumped into something.

"Huh?" He said.

"You really do get lost in your music don't you. Even sound check." Teri said with a grin.

His eyes popped open wide. A grin formed on her face. Their arms went around each other. No concern for the guitar that started to make an ugly racket very loudly in the sold out forty-thousand person Arena. Obie's head shot up from the sound table out front. Saw what was going on. Turned off Richie's guitar amps and went back to work. Not much distracted him from this part of his job. Especially Richie and a girl.

"Baby, you made it."

"I did at that." Teri replied. She gave him what she considered her special Richie smile.

Takumi came over and just took off Richie's guitar without asking. Now free they could have a nice slow kiss. Then the coughing started. First one, two, then four people started coughing and making a racket all around them. Richie was oblivious, which wasn't surprising. Teri wasn't she broke the kiss. He had lipstick smeared on his lips. She had beard burn even though Richie's beard was just on his chin. The way Teri said she liked.

Teri wiggled of the embrace, and while holding Richie's hand she turned to the rest of the band and took a deep curtsey. This just got them louder, with cat calls, and stamping of feet.

"Darlin', don't feed into it. They'll never stop." He said as he pulled her back to a standing position.
Richie took her hand and walked her to the side of the stage where she would be out of their line of fire at least for a moment until sound check was done.

"Aww don't we get to meet her?" One asked.

"Is she the cookie lady?" Another asked.

There were more called out questions which Richie ignored.

The process was no different than what Teri was used to with her bands at the theatre. The only difference was oh, about 39 thousand people. Teri wandered to the side of the stage and she found a temporary set of stairs. She double checked her credentials and went out into the audience. She sat in a newly placed seat in the inner circle and watched. She was in her glory.

It went quick. Richie came down and they went hand in hand to his quick change area for a little privacy.

Teri giggled as Richie took her in his arms for some serious kissing.


"Hey Rich, band meeting in five minutes." Jon's assistant announced as she passed outside his curtained off area.

He sighed. Put his chin on the top of her head.

"Bet that asshole is doing this just to fuck with me." Richie said.

Teri looked up at him.

"Come on. I'll find someone who won't tell stories to keep you company ." He declared as he lean her through the backstage maze with the confidence of someone who has done this for years.

They ran into Debbie who was a wardrobe assistant.

"Nope." He said.

The runner for sound.

"Nope."

Matt, Jon's brother.

"Definitely nope."

"What the hell." He exclaimed when he couldn't find anyone who would keep their trap shut.

Then he saw his savior. Denise his Personal Assistant and Teri knew her.

"Deni. You remember Teri right? Jon called some shit ass meeting. Can you two hang for a few?"

"Of course." Was the reply.

Richie left them chatting, and talking about a cup of coffee.

It was a band only meeting. Richie was the last to arrive.

When everyone was situated Jon started right in.

"So did she bring any cookies?"

Richie couldn't be mad. He wondered the same thing


*** *** *** ***                            *** *** *** ***                               *** *** *** ***

The concert was fantastic. Richie wanted her to stay in his quick change room.... For the night...So he knew exactly where she was at all times. He didn't trust some of the one day workers backstage.

No such luck. Teri was on his side of the stage. Jumping around dancing and singing. She got Denise to do the same. Deni had stopped all that jumping around years ago. But, always stood on his side and smiled a big smile like a proud Mama bear as he played.

Teri was told when he was able to hit quick change. The girls made sure to be there.

Richie was drying his hair. An assistant was trying to blow dry it, and as much of his sweaty body as she could at the same time, while holding his new shirt. Teri stayed back and watched. She didn't know the routine and didn’t want to get in the way.

He saw her. Went over took her in his arms and ground his pelvis into her. He was more than ready.

"Baby, you go out like that and it will be a problem."

"Not for me. Hate to say it but this happens." Richie said.

"Wasn't talking about you."

He grinned, walked back on stage to grab his guitar and do what he does best. Rock the house down.

Chapter 14 Special delivery

After a very pleasant flight across the country with Teri, they went their separate ways at the airport not at all in line with Richie’s carefully laid plans. Al actually waited for Teri at luggage claim and after a quick hello to Richie, he hurried her to the waiting car as the driver got her luggage. Time was of the essence for her.

As he watched Teri take off with Al, he plastered on his public smile, and signed autographs as Deni ushered him out of the terminal. He told himself that she would be on tour with him soon and they would be able to see where this was going.

 Richie got into his own waiting car, and set off to Jersey for a couple of days of writing. With what Teri told him on the way to the east coast, it didn’t look like they would get much if any time together before he left damn it. The mile-high club is one he didn’t want to engage in on a public flight. Been there, done that.  Is that all she is to you? A good lay? Richie contemplated that as he looked out the window on the trip south. No, she’s more than that. He knew deep down this relationship was good. She got him as an artist, she got him as a man. He got her as an artist, and is figuring her out as a woman…. I think.

****                                                   ****                                                   ****                                                   

Weary, Richie and David shuffled into the hotel.

“Where are we?” David asked.

“No clue man. Haven’t been like this in a long time.”

“Yeah, the circus is back in town. We haven’t toured this hard since Doc left.”

Richie’s mouth formed a grim line at the thought. If he waited for Jon, he could have just slipped up the service elevator, and been in his room without all the fan bullshit they just went through. Why couldn’t they use the service elevator too? Because SOMEONE had to deal with the fans. Give them what they want and all that shit. He loves his fans but not tonight.

Paul, their tour manager waited for them in the lobby. He passed out room keys as they stopped in front of him.

“Rich, your package came. I put it in your living room.”

“Thanks man. Late wakeup call, okay?”

“If you consider nine late, then okay.”

Richie looked at Paul.

“Interviews start at ten.”

“It’s already after three in the morning!” David exclaimed.

“No worries Dave, you’re free till sound check.”

“Fucker.” Richie said.

“Who, Paul, or me?”

“You man. Always you.”

They both lumbered to the elevator. Once on their floor, David followed Richie to his suite.

“Where you goin’?”

“Too wound to sleep. Figured I’d come in for a drink, then try to catch some ZZZ’s.”

They entered the rooms. Rich put his carry-on next to the nearest chair. David raided the welcome basket. Found a bottle of Bourbon, put a couple of ice cubes in each glass and brought it all to the coffee table.

“What’s that?”

“Don’t know.” Richie replied he sat on the couch and looked at the brown box in front of him.

David poured a good helping of the brown liquid over the ice, and passed a glass to his friend, as Richie grabbed the box.

“It’s from Teri.” David said as he looked over Richie’s shoulder at the UPS box.

The boys knew a little about her from Jon. Richie was trying to keep it to himself for as long as possible. Knowing this crew as well as he did, it was for the best.

“I can see that Dufus. Get me something to open it with.”

David found a pen on the desk and brought it over. There was nothing to open the box with other than that. They carried neither keys, nor scissors, with them so David had to make due. Richie took the pen after he shot a look at his friend.

“What? Best you got.”

He jammed the pen into the packing tape on the box. All thoughts of sleep forgotten as he opened the package of a box wrapped in brown paper with UPS tracking info on it as well as Fragile and Do Not Drop stickers.  What the hell could she have sent? He wondered as the carton was opened.

Inside, on top, Richie found an envelope, which he put aside. There was bubble wrap around more bubble wrap. Richie took out the first package. He undid the padding, and found Chocolate Chunk Cookies. They looked homemade. A smile formed on his lips. The second package was more cookies. This time Oatmeal Chocolate Chip. The smile widened. Those were his favorite. There must be eight dozen cookies here.

As he sat back to enjoy his letter from Teri, Richie didn’t notice that David had picked up one of the bags, and happily started to munch on the cookies. The keyboard player groaned at how good they were.

“Stop that Dufus. Those are mine.” Richie said. He took the bag out of David’s hands as he heard him moan with pleasure. But, not before the keyboardist grabbed a few more cookies. He sat back a happy boy. Booze forgotten the cookies were fantastic.

Hey you!

So, I was thinking after we talked on the plane. What could do to brighten your day? It sounds like the tour is getting long and you need a good break. Only another few days until I join you. I can’t wait!

Anyway, I can barely cook. My best friend Gloria (You met her at the Little Shot reception.) says I can burn boiling water. (ha-ha-ha) But, I CAN bake! Go figure.

I hope these put a smile on your lips my friend. I always say, Store bought cookies are fine., But, homemade shows you’re loved.

There’s enough to share, but, if what you said about David is true that he is the original cookie monster, I’d hid a few just for you.

At that, Richie snapped his head up to find David with his hand back in a bag of cookies as he grabbed a few more. Richie snatched the zip lock bag out of his friend’s hands.

“Dufus.” He said to his friend with a grin.

David smiled, content now with cookies in his belly. He sat back and sighed.  Richie continued with his letter.

He liked that Teri remembered those little things they talked about. And talk they did. Usually late in her night from whatever town he was in.

So, this is my first tour with you. I am so excited and have packed… Twice…  Yup, girly girl shining through.  My original plan was to bring some scripts I wanted to read. The plan was to get as much work out of the way as possible so we can enjoy ourselves. Now I will bring a couple of books I have been putting off reading due to lack of time. I can’t wait! It may just be a good thing the theatre issues came up when they did. Now I have time for reading for pleasure! Oh, I keep forgetting to ask you.

Know anyone who can get a couple of tickets to the Bon Jovi concert in Montana? My niece lives there and I would love to have her come to the show. It’s a stop on the schedule you gave me. We will be there while I’m on tour! I haven’t seen her in a couple of years. Hint, hint. And yup. I didn’t want to ask you a favor like that face to face. It’s a biggy. This way I don’t have to hear you say no… I WILL pay for them Of course. And a car for her to get to the arena, and dinner for all of us. She’s a great kid. I think you will like her. She’s my baby girl.

See you soon!

Teri

He grinned. Yup, of course he can do the whole experience for her niece. The limo, VIP tickets, M & G, dinner, and whatever shit they were giving to the fan club. He’s got that one covered easy. Now, the purple heart is another matter. Not that he thought anything of it himself but, knowing the female mind as well as he does his own, by many years studying the female form … No, wait… the female…. Oh, the hell with it. I got cookies.

Richie started to put the cookies back in the box when he noticed something else.  There was another envelope on the bottom. Inside was a few pictures. Some were regular photographs and one was a newspaper clipping. There was a post-it on the top, which simply said. To remember me.

The pictures were of the two of them last time they were together.  On the back Teri wrote. Date with a rock star... One had Teri sitting very close. The other had them laughing at something someone said. Another had Richie with his arm around Teri’s waist.

He grinned.

The last was a newspaper clipping of the two of them that the funny papers got. The headline read:

Who is the Mystery Lady with the King of Swing?

It showed them crossing the street in New York City holding hands as Richie looked out for traffic so they could safely get across the road.  Teri drew a smiley face on the edge of the paper.  This HAS to be the weekend we met.

Richie put the pictures back in the envelope.

“Okay, Davey, time to go.”

Grumbling David stood.

“One more for the road?”

He held up one of the cookie bags.

“One, then go.”

David took two. Smiled and left for his own bed.

Richie finished up; the cookies were back in the box. Then, on second thought, he took some of each and put them in the spare zip lock bag Teri was smart enough to include, then hit his bed to sleep. But, not before another look at the pictures. He slept well.

After his interviews the next morning, Richie snuck out to get some fresh air, and do a little shopping. He stopped at the nearest drug store, and picked up some odds and ends he wanted. He could have had someone do this for him, but Richie needed to get out and away from the Jovi madness. Once back on his hotel floor, he saw David as he paced like a caged lion outside his room.

“Where you been?” David asked annoyed he had to wait.

“Skydiving.” Richie said. Sarcasm in his voice as he held up the bag with Rite-Aid clearly marked.

“So, come on let me in.”

Richie ignored David. Before he could get the door open, Tico joined them

“Sup?” Richie asked.

They entered his suite.

David started to look around.

“Okay to put on coffee?” Tico asked.

“Good idea.” Richie replied as he placed his bag from the drug store on the bar.

“What you doing Dufus?” He asked David.

“Where are they?”

Richie smiled. Teri nailed it on the head.

“Where’s what?” He asked playing dumb.

“The damned cookies!”

From the coffee pot, Tico chimed in.

“Heard about ’em, you gonna cough ‘em up?”

Before Richie could answer, there was a knock on the door. He opened it to see Jon on the other side. David had found the box of cookies. He put them on the coffee table and sat. Tico placed mugs and coffee paraphernalia on the same table.

“Those them?” Jon asked as he flopped down in one of the chairs.

“Yup.” David replied as he opened the box.

Word spreads fast among them Richie thought as he shook his head. He sat down and accepted the coffee from Tico. As they ate the cookies, you could hear appreciative moans of contentment from all corners of the room.

“If she looks as good as she cooks, you hit a home run Rich. Don’t let this one go.” Tico said around bites. Richie laughed.

“She looks better than she cooks. She’s known to burn boiling water!” He said with a smile. Richie kept just how beautiful he thought she was away from the boys. He didn’t need their jokes right now. Give them any info and they use it.

The cookies were a big hit. The four of them talked about the snack at odd times. Like when they were at sound check or in a car as they headed to or from some show.

“Gee, some cookies would be great right now.”

“Well dufus, if you didn’t eat ‘em all there would have been some left!” Jon complained to David.

Teri, without even being on tour made a hit with the boys. Richie smiled and sat back.