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.

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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.

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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


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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.

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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. 

Chapter 13 Up up and away

After a grueling, but exhilarating tour leg, the guys had a few days free before they were back on the road. So, they all went their respective ways to see family while they could. Teri would join them the following week. Richie wanted to spend a little time with her now. He didn’t want to wait. Ava was staying with him while he was home so he had time with her too. His PA was taking care of some of his business deals in the works so he was as free, well, as free as can be for 48 hours. He could hook up with tour in Jersey as easy as flying and meeting up with the boys in Texas which is their next show. As it happened Teri was back in California for a few essential meetings with Don. She was heading home in a few days too.

He picked up the phone to “talk” to Jon about his plans.

“Jacob.” said Jon’s youngest into his father’s phone as he tried to sound like his dad.

“Hey, Jakey it’s Uncle Mookie.” Richie said with a smile.

 “Hey, Uncle Mookie wassa up?” Richie laughed aloud as the child sounded exactly like Jon.

“Hey, Brutha man wassup?” He replied.

“Daddy’s watchin’ me. I took his phone to take calls. No one lets me. He’s in his work room.”

 “Does Dad know you got the phone dude?”

 “Nah, what fun’s in that Mookie?” Richie laughed again at both the reasoning behind the phone in Jon’s youngest 

hands and the shortened nickname.

“Jake, where the hell’s my phone?” Jon bellowed as he went to make a call and couldn’t find the phone he knew he left on his desk.

“Uh oh, gotta go Mook. Dad’s mad.” Jacob said as he handed the phone over to Jon.

 “Ya think?” Richie replied. He was still laughing as he heard Jacob try to talk his way out of his dad’s wrath for taking the phone. ‘ALL the kids answered the phones but me.’ Was Jacob’s excuse as to why he answered Dads business phone. He figured if he reminded his Dad that his brother and sister did then he should too. The last thing Jake said as he ran to play in his room was. “It’s okay it’s Uncle Mookie.”

“But what if it wasn’t…” The sentence trailed after Jon’s youngest as the child ran to play. Jon shook his head and turned his attention to the phone call.

“Hey Rich, wassup?”

 Richie lost it. He laughed hard. There were tears in his eyes and he spewed the sip of coffee he took waiting for Jon to pick up the phone all over his patio. Ava just shook her head as she jumped back into the pool with a couple of friends she had over.

“Man, you better watch out, you sounded exactly like Jakey.”

 “Don’t cha mean Jakey sounded like me bro?”

 “Nope.”

 “Ha, ha, Rich, very funny.”

Richie got to the point.

“So, you gonna write this week? I need an excuse to head east. I wanna spend time with Teri.” Jon sighed.

“Richie, man why do you need an excuse? That’s so not like you.”

 “She’s different man. I’m not sayin’ anything. I just want to explore my options.” Jon mulled that over. With a long suffering sigh, he said.

 “Okay, when am I gonna write?”

“Thursday.” Richie replied.

After a shake of his head he said into the phone.

“Hey Rich. I have a bunch of stuff running around in my head. Wanna come out Thursday and see if we can get a song or two out of it?”

“Sure man that would be great and you know what? Teri is heading back East Thursday so maybe I’ll hook up and take the same flight. It’s just as easy to meet the band in Jersey to start the next leg as it is to fly out from LAX. I’ll call you with details. Bye.” Richie hung up. But, not before he heard the chuckle coming from his longtime friend.

With a shake of his head and a look over at the kids in the pool he continued. Ava had a few friends over this afternoon and he was sitting on the porch keeping an eye on them. Not that they needed it but Richie felt better if he was around. It was too beautiful of a day to be inside anyway.

“Okay that was easy. Now let’s see about the next obstacle. I’ll take the biggest one first.” Richie got more comfortable then hit the appropriate phone number.

 “Hello Ma?”

When he finished his call and had tentative dinner plans with his mother to meet Teri on his next tour break he called Teri. He was such a mother’s boy that he wanted her to love each of his girlfriends and this one was different. He wasn’t totally ready to explore what that meant, but she was. Richie thought it would be hard to tell his mom about Teri. She had sat him down and talked to him about all the girls he was dating at once. Richie laughed and explained they were just “dates” for the event nothing more. That mollified her and he was able to tell her a little about Teri without going into details yet.

“Teri’s phone this is Susan."

“Suzie Q my friend, how are you?” Richie asked. He was very happy with the knowledge that his plans were falling into place. He stretched out on his chair and got comfortable.

“There is only one person who can get away with calling me that. Richie Sambora, wass up?

Richie smiled at Susan’s question.

“Not too much. Teri around?” He got right to the point.

“Yes and no,” Susan quipped. “Technically she’s here but she’s on a conference call with Al. There’s a major issue in Connecticut that may close us down unless something is figured out.”

“Not good. Have her call me when she frees up.” Richie said. His mind already on different things like dinner for the kids. Do you think they would want sushi or burgers?

“Yup, will do. It may not be for a couple of hours.”

“No problem, it’s all good. I have dinner plans tonight, but, have her call any time. I’ll take it. My kid will understand.”

“Sounds like a plan. I’ll let her know. Have fun with your daughter. Good taking to you Richie.”

“You too Suzie Q.” Richie was in a great mood.

They rang off.

An hour later Susan brought Teri up to speed about what she missed while in her crisis.

“And finally, Richie called. He said to call him when you free up.”

She at length told her about her new name from Richie. But with a smile on her face and a twinkle in her eye. She is out for retribution. For sure.

 “Figures I missed that call. The one I would have loved to take.”

Teri went into the bedroom to make her call to Richie. They briefly talked as he was leaving for a dinner out with the girls.

 Richie called back after word to talk some more.

 “Hey you. How was dinner with?”

“It was fine thanks. Typical actually.  She wanted Sushi for dinner. I’m all over that. Love it.

Teri tucked that away for later. She never tried it but was willing to give it a shot.

“So tell me more about you?” She asked of him.

“Like what?”

“Oh I don’t know. What’s your favorite kind of food? ”He smiled. It was typical question that couples ask in the beginning of their relationship. He got more comfortable on the couch.

“Restaurant, Homemade or store bought?”

“Oh, homemade. I think that shows love. Store bought is fine but if you take the time and effort to make something from scratch it shows how much it means.” Teri crossed her fingers as she said this. Gloria always said she could burn boiling 

water.

It was Richie’s turn to tuck that away. Maybe someday she will… There I go again. But this time I think it’s a good thing. Let’s move this up a notch.

“Before I forget. Suzie Q is looking for retribution you may want to be on your toes around her. She is known for her paybacks around the theatre.”

“Speaking of Suzie, does she handle your personal stuff as well as the theatre?”

“Nah. I do the personal stuff myself. I actually am spending the evening taking care of a ton of things. I was thinking of hiring someone but why do I need two assistants?”

“Just a thought. I have three. I was surprised you only had Suzie as you are so busy.”

“Mmmm Something to think about. When I have time to think, that is.”

“Listen I talked to Jon and we are going to do some writing on the last couple of days of our down time. I thought we could fly East together.”

“Oh yeah? You’re leave that soon? Now this is cool.”

“Yeah I thought so too. Just give me your flight info and I’ll have Deni take care of it.”

“So, tell me more about all your assistants. Who does what? I really do need someone to keep me on time and someone to pick up my juggling act of appointments and commitments.”

They talked for about an hour more when simultaneously, Ava started to call her dad and Teri’s other phone started to ring.

Richie promised he would be in touch about the flight. As he hung up Teri heard his daughter wheedling her way into dad picking up pizza, ice cream and other goodies for the girl’s spontaneous sleep over.

 Teri smiled a bit jealous of Richie’s evening plans as opposed to her spending the evening on the phone with Al hashing out details on their fix to keep the theatre not to mention the show alive outside of some pretty big issues the physical building was having. If they couldn’t work it out at an acceptable cost to the board. The theatre would be in 

danger of being shut down.

Richie called Deni to have the tickets moved around so they are together on the flight and Teri with a sigh called Al. She didn’t see any way around this one.