Chapter 6

I had a very productive day, so I've got an extra chapter to post...

Jon surveyed the scene before him with approval.  Allegra had done good.  The segment of beach set aside for their luau had one long table with enough padded chairs for eleven guests.  Adorning the table were three arrangements of fresh tropical flowers, intermingled with red roses.  White candles were placed in glass hurricane shades, and their flames danced in the evening breeze. 

The area was situated so that the seating was placed between the ocean and a stage with a makeshift curtain.  He supposed she had gotten it for some type of dinner show. 

Just as he was looking at his watch and thinking that the others were late, Tico strolled in.  “Hey man.  Nice setup, but why so many chairs?”

Shaking his head, Jon said, “No idea.  Maybe Allegra invited some of the crew.  She seemed to be pretty interested in at least one of them yesterday.”

“And is that interest something we’re going to accept, or discourage?”

“It’s something we’re going to watch.”

“What are we watching?” Richie asked as he approached the table.  David and Hugh were right on his heels.

“Allegra and Montana,” Tico answered.

“What’s to watch?” Richie wanted to know.

“I don’t know yet,” Jon told him with a meaningful look.

David jumped in with, “Didn’t you guys see the way they were looking at each other yesterday at the arena?  She definitely had some male appreciation going on, and he was eating it up.  Why do you think I kept yelling at her?”

Allegra made her entrance then, instructing, “Have a seat gentlemen. Sit next to one another facing the stage, if you would please.  We’ve arranged a little entertainment before dinner is served.”

The men looked at her with identical expressions of astonishment, and she didn’t think they’d heard a word she just said.

“Hello?  Did you all just go deaf?  What are you looking at?” she demanded, tugging self-consciously at the short hem on her sundress. 

Dot had insisted that she dress ‘appropriately’ for a luau and ordered her to wear the dress she’d brought.  It was a beautiful shade of blue, and emphasized the color of her eyes – but that wasn’t the only thing that was emphasized.  The rayon material clung perfectly to her body and, for the first time, everyone realized what an amazing figure she’d been hiding under her oversized clothing. 

The empire waistline rested just below her breasts and flowed softly down over her hips, with the hemline reaching almost to mid-thigh.  The upper part of the dress had a halter-style neckline that plunged into a deep vee and tied around her neck.  That neckline showcased some pretty impressive cleavage. 

And, as if the dress weren’t enough, Dot had also insisted that she had to wear makeup.  Allegra didn’t mind makeup, but she contended that it had to look natural.  She refused to look like a clown or a prostitute.   Lexi had taken charge at that point, artfully applying a light rose blush, then dark mascara and eyeliner, and finishing up with a neutral, yet flattering, shade of lip color. 

Then they started in about her hair, but Allegra put her foot down there.  Kelli had tried to convince her to leave it flowing loosely down her back, but the thick black waves would just be too hot on her neck.  Not to mention being all over her face in the outdoor breeze.  But, instead of her usual ponytail or braid, she had conceded to a messy up ’do with a few loose tendrils curling around her face and neckline.  And, of course, she wore the traditional hibiscus blossom behind her ear.

The results were astonishing, if the guys’ faces were any indication. 

“Dayum, Legs!”  David finally broke the silence.  “You’re hot!”

“Jesus, Joker.  How many times do I have to tell you, she’s family.  Step off, man!” 

“I’m sorry Kidd, but she’s a fucking bombshell!”

Her face flushed with embarrassment at his words, but irritation rose above that.  “What? You thought I was pathetically unattractive until now?  Or just not the caliber of woman you’d expect from Pretty Boy’s family?”

Tico stepped up, tugging her into a light embrace.  “He’s an ass that doesn’t think before he speaks, mi querido.  Ignore him.  But you do look exceptionally lovely this evening,” he added kissing her cheek.

“It’s just been so long since I’ve seen you dressed up, it was a surprise,” Jon apologized.  He too leaned in to kiss her cheek.  “You look beautiful.”

Hugh added his sentiments, but Richie still didn’t say a word.

“Thank you gentlemen – even you Dave.”  She gestured toward the table. “Now, we’re running behind schedule here.  The entertainers are ready to take the stage if you’ll have a seat like I asked.”

This time they immediately complied.

She made her way to the stage area, addressing them with her hands clasped before her.  “Okay guys.  The Circle Tour ‘unofficially’ kicks off tomorrow night, and I know you’re anxious.  But tonight isn’t about the tour, it’s about love.  So, as an early Valentine’s celebration, Dorothea has arranged for a little something special for you.  I hope you enjoy,” she concluded, moving to seat herself in the odd chair at the end of the table, which happened to be next to Hugh. 

The sunlight was fading and the flickering candlelight didn’t offer much assistance in allowing the men to see who, or what, was emerging from behind the impromptu curtain.  As traditional Hawaiian music began to fill the air, a hidden spotlight snapped to life, revealing the backs of five dancers adorned in grass skirts and bright bikini tops.

The men whooped and whistled in appreciation as the dancers’ hips began to sway in time with the music.

One of those girls looks like a child, Richie thought. 

The girls displayed their skills, gyrating their hips in a circular motion to the progressively faster rhythm.  As the music progressed, each of them showcased their own ‘signature’ move then shimmied around to face their audience.  Lexi was the first to turn.  There was a brief moment of silence, and then men whistled and catcalled even louder as they figured out what was going on. 

It took him a minute to process everything before him, but Richie knew who the smallest dancer was before she ever turned around.  He beamed with joy and pride at the skill his little girl displayed. She was so focused on her dancing, that she didn’t look at her father until the music stopped. But then her face split wide in a heart stopping grin as the guys stomped, whistled and applauded their approval of the performance.

Damn, I’ve missed my baby girl, Richie realized.

Each man moved quickly toward his respective girl as they descended from the stage, bestowing hugs and kisses.

“Baby, you did a hell of a job,” Jon told Dot.  “This is exactly what we needed to get our minds off pre-tour insanity tonight.  Thank you.”

“You didn’t think we’d let you spend all these days in paradise without us did you?”  Kelli piped up.

“So this was just a way to get some beach time!  It had NOTHING to do with showing some well-deserved love to your hard working men!” David accused melodramatically.

Lexi pinched his ass in mock punishment for his behavior as Dot said to the group,  “The original idea may have been mine, and I got the other women to agree, but Allegra deserves the credit for pulling all of this together.  She smuggled us in, made sure we could dance, and planned an amazing meal for all of us to enjoy.”

Allegra smiled, a little wistfully in Dot’s estimation, from her still seated position at the end of the table.  “It was my pleasure, really.”  Rising from her chair, she continued, “Now if you will excuse me, I’m going to go and see how close we are to actually eating.”

After they reseated themselves, Ava had crawled up into Richie’s lap, much to his delight.  “I am sooo happy to see you baby girl.”  He squeezed tight to him.

“Me too, Daddy!  I love Hawaii!”  Her blue eyes sparkled with excitement.

“So do I, darlin’.  Remind me to thank Aunt Dot special for talking to your mom and getting you here.  Did Casey come with you?” The nanny had been with them since Ava was a baby.

“Yes, Casey’s here too, but it wasn’t Aunt Dot that talked to Mom. Well, she did when Mom called her later, but Allegra’s the one who got hold of us.  It was all her idea. At least that’s what Aunt Dot told Mom.”

Well that explains being social this morning.  “Then I’ll have to make sure and thank Allegra.  Hey,” he leaned back to inspect the pink hibiscus blossom in her hair.  “Your flower is on the wrong side.  Everybody else’s is on the other side.”

She informed him importantly, “That’s because I’m not taken.  The hula teacher said that you wear it on the left side to show you’re taken, and the right side to show you’re single.”

“Well, then you ARE wearing it on the wrong side,” he told her, relocating it to rest above her left ear.  “Because you are definitely taken – by me!” 

Ava’s giggles carried all the way to the food preparation area, where Allegra had just instructed the staff to begin the meal service.  With that accomplished, she started back down the beach path, but found herself wavering  Leaning against a palm tree, she deliberated at the wisdom of rejoining the group. It was a Valentine’s celebration after all, and she’d be the only un-paired one at the table.  Why didn’t I think of that sooner, she chastised herself.

Loneliness engulfed Allegra.  It was an uncommon feeling for her, but she was tired of being alone.

Sighing, she pulled out her cell phone to send Jon a text.   Not feeling well.  Going to my room.  Tell everyone to enjoy the evening. ~A

Jon read the text and, frowning, showed his phone to Dot.  “I’m going to check on her,” he said quietly, rising from his seat.

His wife placed her hand on his forearm, just as the wait staff appeared with their food.  “We’ll check on her later.  Let her rest for now.”

He reluctantly resumed his place at the table, as the others were oohing and aahing over the food selections.  Everything was brought to the table on serving platters, creating the convenience of a buffet, without having to leave the table. 

They had all made their food selections and were beginning to start their meals when David commented on Allegra’s absence.   “Where’s Legs?”

“She wasn’t feeling well and went up to her room,” Dot explained.  “Jon and I will stop in after dinner to make sure she’s okay.”

There was no time for further discussion.  A group of fire dancers appeared, and surrounded the group to begin their spectacular performance. 

-----

Allegra stepped onto the elevator and pushed the button for her floor.  Just as the doors were closing, a masculine hand appeared between them.  The doors immediately retracted, allowing the passenger entry.  She glanced up to find Montana giving her a wolfish once-over.  Apparently, he approved of the enhanced Allegra too.  “I told you our paths would be crossing again soon.”

She smiled suggestively at him.  Perfect…

“Where are you headed to all dressed up?” He asked, eyeing her from bare legs to suggestive neckline and accented eyes.

“I just left a luau.  I’m headed back to my room.”  She screwed up her courage before adding, “Would you like to join me?”

“Sure.” His grin was positively feral. 

The elevator doors slid open on the fifth floor, and she exited, glancing over her shoulder to see if he was actually going to follow her.

Smiling reassuringly, he offered her his arm and escorted her the short distance to her room.  Taking the key card from her hand, he opened the door, and passed the card back.  She crossed the threshold and waited for him enter before allowing the door to close behind him. 

Her room was just a standard one, with no sitting area.  That left a desk chair and the bed for seating.  She gestured toward the bed, inviting him to have a seat.

“You look beautiful tonight,” he told her as she settled next to him.

“Thank you.”  She inhaled deeply before continuing,  “Listen Montana – I don’t do this kind of thing – ever.  But I’m lonely tonight.  I want to be with someone.  Are you okay with that?”  She held her breath in anticipation.

He turned toward her, sliding his hand up to cradle the back of her neck, and inched his face closer to hers.  “I’m more than okay with that,” he murmured as his lips touched hers.

His kiss was soft at first, testing the waters.  Gradually he became more aggressive, lapping at her lips with his tongue.  She moaned softly at the sensations racing through her. Putting her hands on either side of her face, she pushed her body closer to his and parted her lips to invite him in.  Then it was his turn to moan as he got his first true taste of her.  Their tongues danced together, the friction escalating the tension even further. 

Montana glided his hand over her ribcage, resting just below her breast.  His thumb gently stroked her, finally finding her nipple.  That first touch caused shockwaves to run through Allegra like lightning, and she cried out in pleasure.

“You’re so damn responsive,” he crooned as his lips began a journey down her exposed neck.

She tilted her head to give him better access, and the warmth of his mouth sent shivers up her spine.  She needed to touch more of him and pushed her hands under his t-shirt, stroking from his stomach upward to his pectoral muscles.  He felt so good!  He was a warm, solid man that wanted her.  She didn’t question it, because the evidence of his want was pressing against her thigh. 

He reached around to untie the halter neck, and she arched her back as the bodice of the dress dropped free.  Leaning forward to take one of the bronze nipples in his mouth, swirling around it lightly with his tongue.

Allegra gasped at the contact.  Then she gasped again, startled by a sudden pounding at the door.

“Allegra, it’s Jon.  Are you okay?”  his voice called through the wood.

“Shit!” Montana exclaimed and jumped up, moving to stand and look out the window.

She grumbled as she re-situated the bodice of her dress, and tied it back in place.  “Just stay there,” she told Montana.  “This won’t take a minute.”

Pulling open the door only a few inches, she met a mirror image of her own eyes.  “I’m fine Jon.  It was just a headache and I didn’t want to ruin everyone’s time.  Go enjoy your wife.”

He took in her puffy lips, flushed cheeks and glassy eyes.  “Aren’t you going to invite me in?” he asked, pushing the door back toward the wall, and immediately spotting Montana.  “I see you have company, so I guess you WEREN’T going to invite me in.”

She stood with the door open, hand on the frame.  “No, I wasn’t as a matter of fact.  I DO have company, and so do you for that matter.  GO SEE YOUR WIFE.”

Jon’s stink eye was notorious among fans, family, and crew alike.  It wasn’t a common occurrence, but when it happened you knew you’d fucked up but good.  Montana had never been on the receiving end of it – until now. 

Chapter Five

Thanks to rutpop and norwichliz for a little inspiration with this one  :0)


Richie looked over at the sleeping woman and sighed softly.  He was really out of practice.  The last tour had been about making it from one show to the next without a drink.  Invitations for late-night visits to women’s hotel rooms had routinely been declined, opting instead to stick close to the guys.  They didn’t know it – or maybe they did – but he used them as a security net.  Just being with them kept his resolve stronger.  His bandmates, and most especially Jon, had been there and done more for him than he could repay.  He wouldn’t disappoint them any more than he already had.

Grabbing his shoes, he finger-combed his hair and quietly slipped out of the hotel room.  It was getting close to daylight, and time to get back to his own room before the blonde from last night awoke.

And it wouldn’t hurt to see if Allegra’s stubborn ass was alone on the beach again this morning…

-----

They say that it is darkest just before the dawn, and Allegra believed it as she sat alone on the beach.  Waiting for the start of another day in paradise, she was cloaked in the shadows of the night with only her thoughts for company. It’s so peaceful…

And she was in need of some peace after spending most of yesterday evening trying to find an answer to the Richie/luau problem. It wasn’t like she could ask Jon or the band members.  That would ruin the surprise.  Never dreaming that she’d be forced into the position of finding a Valentine’s date for a single man, she ended up doing the only thing she could think of.  It took a lot of subtle inquiries, phone calls, cajoling, and wheedling, but she believed everything would come together.  She hoped so anyway.  Just have a little faith, Allegra, she told herself.  It will be fine. 

At least dinner had gone well.  She fixed the ‘famous’ lasagna along with an antipasto salad and garlic bread, with a simple cheesecake for dessert.  Jon had conveyed his appreciation with a wink and slight nod of approval, but most of his bandmates had been more vocal.  Almost ridiculously so.  David serenaded her with ‘That’s Amore’  - substituting ‘lasagna pie’ for the ‘big pizza pie’, with Hugh and Richie chiming in on harmony.  Tico had settled for a kiss on the cheek as his expression of gratitude.  It was a relief to have that first meal behind her. 

She jumped slightly as a movement – or was it a sound? – caught her attention.  Glancing over to her left, she was struck with a sense of déjà vu.  There was Richie, making his way toward her from a neighboring hotel.  This hotel being on the opposite end of the beach from yesterday’s. 

Oh great, here we go again.  She watched him approach, bracing herself for another lecture.

Allegra eyed him with wary defiance, mentally preparing for a disagreement, but the lecture didn’t come.  He surprised her by not saying a word.  He simply acknowledged her with a nod and situated himself on the sand, much as he had the day before.

Richie silently congratulated himself.  So far, he’d managed to fulfill his obligation to Jon without pissing her off.

As he rolled up the cuffs of his jeans, she noted that he at least wasn’t wearing the sunglasses this morning.  They were safely tucked into the neckline of his burgundy t-shirt.  The muscles in his arms rippled as he leaned back on his elbows in the sand, drawing her attention to the tattoo peeking out of the bottom of his sleeve.   She recalled seeing that he had tattoos, but hadn’t paid attention to what they were.  This one appeared to be a guitar, but she couldn’t make out much more than that.

Dragging her focus from his bicep, she decided to go on the offensive rather than wait for him to speak, “Better night last night?”

His eyes sought her out in the dim light.  She didn’t see any trace of antagonism there.   

Richie took in her appearance from his reclined position.  Baggy t-shirt, baggy shorts, sandals and a haphazard braid seemed to be her standard sunrise uniform.  “Do you really want to know the answer?” he offhandedly responded with a question of his own. 

“No.  But I thought I’d try and be social.”

He refused to bicker with her.  “Social is good.  It’s a step forward for us anyway.”  The tide once again captured his attention.

Chuckling softly, she realized how childish she was being, and admitted,   “I guess it is.”

With that, they both sat quietly in the pre-dawn moments, content with the little bit of accord they’d just found.

The sun had breached the horizon, light dancing across the waves, when Allegra spoke quietly.  “Your daughter is beautiful.”

And that’s all it took.  His whole demeanor changed in an instant.  The tension left him, his features softened, and he gave her a genuine smile.  He seemed like a real person for the first time since she’d met him.  “Yeah.  She is.  Thanks.”

She wanted to see if it would last.  “Tell me about her?” 

“What do you already know?”

“Nothing.”  His quizzical expression prompted her to qualify the statement. “I saw her picture in your dressing room and Montana told me that her name is Ava.  That’s it.”

Nodding, his answer was sincere, yet concise.  “Her name is Ava Elizabeth, she’s twelve, and the best part of me.  There’s nothing that’s more important in my life.”

His expression was wistful as he became lost in thoughts of his beloved daughter.  THIS man is a different person than the one I met two days ago, Allegra realized, her attitude toward him softening a little more. 

“That’s the way it should be,” she told him, suddenly uncomfortable.  She rose quickly and dusted the sand from her shorts.  “Well, the sun is up and it’s time for me to get going.  There's a lot to do today.  I'll see you later.”

“Hey.”  He reached out and lightly grasped her hand before she could walk away. 

“Yeah?”

“Was it so bad?”

“What?”

Grinning, he replied, “Being social.”

She just shrugged and, with a little smirk, headed off to begin her day.

-----

Dot called Allegra about just after noon to let her know the women of Bon Jovi had arrived.  She had booked an extra room to ensure that their secret stayed safe, and asked Allegra to come join them.

Knocking, Allegra was anxious to meet these ladies and see how they matched up to their mates.

The door was opened by a tall, willowy blonde with a questioning look on her face.  “Allegra?”  At Allegra’s nod and smile, she continued.  “Come in!  I’m David’s fiancée, Lexi.”

“David’s fiancée!  Well, Lexi, I’m thrilled.  Once David finds out we’ve met, maybe he’ll stop asking me if I’m single!”  They both laughed as Allegra made her way into the room. Lexi was well aware of her fiancé’s teasing nature.

The room was actually a two bedroom, two bath suite.  This would provide enough space for everyone to comfortably get ready for the evening.  The suite was decorated similarly to Allegra’s room, but on a much larger scale.  The sitting area was done in tasteful shades of brown and beige, reflected in the pattern of the sofa and two side chairs. 

A stunning Latino woman was seated with Dot on the couch, and a second willowy blonde sat in one of the chairs.  Rising from her seat, Dot greeted Allegra warmly with a hug.  Drawing back, serious expression on her face, she asked, “Did you take care of it?”

“I told you I would!”  Allegra chastised lightly.  “Richie’s date will be arriving at the hotel in about an hour, and I’ve arranged for her to be brought here for hula instruction at two.”

“Well?  Who is it?  Madre de Dios, please not Denise!”  The Latino woman exclaimed dramatically.

Allegra laughed, answering in the negative before she introduced herself.  “Hi, I’m Allegra Castanelli.  I’m going to assume that you’re Tico’s wife?”

A dazzling smile lit up her face, “Si, I am Hector’s wife, Alejandra.  He has spoken very fondly of you.”

“I’m pretty fond of him myself.  I got to spend some time with him on the trip out here.  He’s been amazing in making me feel welcome and a part of the group.  You’re a lucky woman.”

The second blonde spoke up then, introducing herself, “And I’m Kelli McDonald, Hugh’s wife.”

“Ladies, it’s a pleasure to meet each of you.  I’m just getting to know the men in your lives, but they’ve already charmed me.  I promise to make sure they’re well fed while we’re out on the road.”  She seated herself on the end of the sofa with Dot and Alejandra, while Lexi took the other chair.  “Now… who’s Denise?”

The four women looked at each other, and, as Dot was the only one who wasn’t overtaken by laughter, she responded to the question.  “Denise was Richie’s girlfriend right after his divorce.  She didn’t endear herself to anyone in this group, the men included.  We all assume that she had some hidden charms and talents that we weren’t aware of.  Either that, or Richie was blinded by alcohol.  We still don’t know which.”

Alejandra addressed Dot.  “I can’t believe she doesn’t already know.” 

“Honestly, I doubt she even knows who Richie’s ex-wife is.”

“Okay, first of all, I know Heather is his ex-wife.  But more importantly, can we speak as though I’m actually IN the room?”  Allegra asked wryly.

Kelli offered their regrets along with an explanation.  “I’m sorry honey, it’s just that Richie’s private life was very public and we’re surprised you don’t already know the story.  Seems like most everyone does.”

Allegra shrugged and told them unapologetically, “I don’t keep up with celebrity news, so I guess I’m at a disadvantage.”

“Actually, I think that’s your biggest AD-vantage in dealing with these men,” Dot assured her.  “They say it, they mean it, but they have a hard time getting anyone to accept that they’re regular guys.  They belch, scratch and forget to put the toilet seat down just like all other men.  I have a feeling you’re going to help keep them grounded just by not being starstruck.”

Hysterical laughter suddenly filled the air, yet as she surveyed the room, Allegra saw that no one was actually laughing.  Lexi rose quickly and grabbed the cellphone from her purse.  “That’s David’s ringtone,” she explained, before answering it.

“Hey baby!  How are you?  I’m good.  Hating that you’re so far away from me, but good.”  She grinned mischievously at the others.  “Luau tonight?  That should be fun.  Wish I was going to be there.  Yeah, I know you do too.  Don’t pick up any hula dancers, okay?  Uh-huh.  That’s okay, I understand you have rehearsal.  Love you too, and I’ll talk to you soon.”   After hanging up the phone she finished that thought.  “And see you even sooner!”

The women all snickered, but Dot was not to be deterred.  “Allegra, you still haven’t told us who Richie’s date is.  Tell me it’s not some trashy blonde bimbo.  I don’t want to spend the evening with another one of those.”

“Well, she IS a blonde…  Look, I don’t know Richie and that’s made this very difficult.  So I did the only thing I could think of.  And, after talking to him this morning, I’m confident that it was the right choice.”  She said, trying to convince herself as much as anyone else.  “Valentine’s Day is about love.  That typically means romantic love, but since I don’t run an escort service that really wasn’t an option.  From what I’ve been told and seen myself, he loves his daughter more than anything.  So I spoke with her mother last night and made the arrangements.  Ava’s going to be Richie’s date, and she’ll being staying on for the first show.”

There was silence in the room, but as Allegra took in the face of each woman, she thought she saw approval. 

Dot spoke for the group.  “I would’ve gone a totally different route, as you know, but as a second choice I think it’s perfect.  He’ll be thrilled to have Ava with him.”

With that, the women began to discuss the evening ahead and debated on whether or not they could fit in spa appointments between hula instruction and the luau.  It was quickly determined that they would have just enough time for either massages or pedicures.  Dot and Kelli were going to have the massages, while Lexi and Alejandra were opting for pedicures.

Satisfied that the ladies were settled, Allegra excused herself to make sure Ava and her nanny had arrived safely.  She assured them that she would be back by two, wanting to take advantage of the hula lesson herself. 

“Oh, Allegra there’s just one more thing.”  Alejandra placed a hand lightly on her shoulder.  She looked to the others for support before continuing.  “Our men have been together by choice for over twenty-five years.  They are closer than brothers.  You may be a Bongiovi by blood, but you’re now a part of the Bon Jovi family too.  That places you in a unique position and makes you family to all of us every bit as much as you are to Jon and Dot.”

Lexi continued, “Now, you may not always appreciate that, because these guys are protective as hell – whether they need to be or not.”

“And because the guys won’t mention it, assuming you just know.” Kelli went on, “we want to tell you that if you need something, we’re here.  Call any of us any time.”

Allegra was astounded at the unconditional acceptance from these virtual strangers.  She’d known all along that it was an amazing opportunity to be a part of this tour, but now…  Now she was coming to truly appreciate the privilege she’d been gifted with.  She was overcome as her heart began its slow thaw toward humanity. 

Dot, sensing that she was overwhelmed, rescued her from having to respond.  Placing her arm around Allegra’s shoulders she gave her a squeeze and summed it all up with, “Welcome aboard, honey.”

  

Chapter 4

Bonus chapter this week...

Her eyes traveled upward over leather flip flops, a long pair of legs encased in khaki cargo pants and a broad chest covered by a black sleeveless tee to find Richie staring down at her.  She was pretty sure he was glaring too, but it was hard to tell since his eyes were hidden by a pair of sunglasses. 

Sunglasses?  At six in the morning?  Really, Rockstar? 

“Excuse me??”  she asked in disbelief, flipping her long ebony braid over her shoulder.

There was a patronizing in his voice as he informed her, “You shouldn’t be out here by yourself where anybody could just walk up on you.  There’s no telling what kind of nut could be wandering around in the dark.”

“Well I know of one kind for sure,” she retorted, giving him a meaningful look.  “I’m a grown woman and it’s really no concern of yours what I do.  Just because the blonde bimbo from last night didn’t satisfy you, doesn’t mean you get to take it out on me.”

Dammit!  Richie thought.  I should have pretended not to see her and gone back to my room.   It didn’t help that she was right.  Bridget – or was it Britney? – turned out to be an aspiring musician who was more interested in his business connections than him.  Regardless, he wasn’t going to let Allegra have the last word.

He sighed in frustration.  “Why don’t you just go back to the hotel?”

She eyed him coolly.  “Listen, I have no idea why this matters to you, but let me tell you what your options are.  You can go on your merry way and leave me be, or you can shut up, sit down and wait with me.  Your choice.  Either way, my backside is staying parked right here until I see the sunrise that I came for."  She turned again to face the ocean, unconcerned with his decision. 

Jon, this girl doesn’t need anybody looking after her, he mentally informed his friend.  All he wanted to do was go to sleep.  Well, he’d rather have a good bout of tension relief and THEN go to sleep, but that wasn’t going to happen.  He followed her cue and looked out over the water as the sun crept steadily out of the horizon.  Maybe he could relax by losing himself in the serenity of the scene before him.

Choice made, he dropped down next to her, digging his heels into the sand and leaning back on his arms for support.  The vibrant shades of red and orange were almost surreal in their intensity.  He couldn’t remember the last time he’d seen the sun come up.  Well, to be more accurate, the last time he’d WATCHED the sun come up.  On the road, daylight just signaled the end to another round of rock and roll nightlife.

They sat in silence for some time, each lost in their own thoughts and absorbing the splendor and tranquility of the moment.  As the sun broke through to sit fully atop the ocean, his curiosity got the best of him.  Eyes never leaving the skyline, he asked her, “So what is it about me that pisses you off so much?”

“Your attitude.”  There was no hesitation or emotion in her reply. 

Now he turned, looking at her profile in the morning light.    She appeared completely relaxed with arms draped over bent knees.  The breeze blew a few stray tendrils of inky hair around her face and molded her loose fitting t-shirt a little closer to her body. 

“My attitude?  What’s wrong with my attitude?”

She rose gracefully to her feet, dusting off the back of her shorts, and bent over to pick up her sandals.  “It’s not my place to judge wrong or right.  I just don’t like it.  You should get some sleep and I have a luau to plan.  See ya later.”

And with that she was gone, striding purposefully back to the hotel.  He could do nothing but watch her go.

-----

That afternoon, Allegra left the hotel’s catering office quite pleased with herself after successfully finalizing the plans for tomorrow night’s luau.  There would be a private area on the beach set aside for the group, with a traditional Imu to roast the pig. Not that she’d had any idea what an Imu was before speaking to the hotel staff.  It turned out to be pretty much just a hole in the ground that was lined and heated for roasting.  In deference to those in the group who didn’t eat pork, the menu also included Hawaiian shrimp stir fry, Kalua turkey and white fish.  Of course, there would be a variety of traditional Hawaiian side dishes and desserts to accompany them, so hopefully there should be something there to suit everyone.

She felt a little guilty, since being the “personal chef” really implied that she should be cooking for them, but they were in Hawaii for crying out loud.  Jon had seemed more than agreeable when she’d passed the luau idea by him, so that should absolve her of any guilt.  Besides, she thought smirking, it’s not like he really had an option.  People in high places had ordered this luau before the jet had ever left Jersey.

It had been arranged for Allegra to prepare meals in the kitchens of the hotels the band would be staying in.  And that’s all she had to do - actually cook the meal. It was really quite a nice setup for her.  Shopping consisted of sending an email to the hotel with a list of necessary ingredients.  She would then find everything ready and waiting when she arrived each evening.  And that was the end of her responsibilities.  The plating, serving and cleanup all fell to hotel staff.  She just had to sit and enjoy dinner with the band.  It made her feel almost like a celebrity chef, and amused her every time she thought of it. 

Her mind was still in celebrity chef world, when she bumped into a solid wall of man.  “Oh, I’m sorry!” she immediately apologized.

Strong hands were placed on her shoulders and she looked up to find a huge, gleaming grin on her victim’s face.

“Tony!  How in the world are you?”  She threw her arms around Jon’s middle brother in an enthusiastic hug.

“Hey Frannie!  I’m working my ass off for the boss, how about you?”  He returned her hug and stepped back to take in her braided hair, make-up free face, baggy jeans, loose fitting t-shirt and flip flops.  “Apparently he doesn’t hold you to any appearance standards,” he teased.

“Oh shut up!” She playfully smacked him on the arm.  “And it’s Allegra, didn’t Jon tell you?”

“Yeah, he did, but I wasn’t expecting to see you and forgot.  Sorry.”  He checked his watch. “I’m supposed to meet one of my guys and head over to the arena to set up some equipment.  Wanna come check it out?”

She didn’t have any place to be until dinner preparations that evening.  Jon had mentioned that Tony was in charge of video production, so it might be interesting.  “Sure.  Let’s go.”

They made their way to the entrance of the hotel where a van was waiting.  She climbed into the back of the van, seating herself behind the man already in the vehicle.    Tony took the seat next to him, instructed the driver to take them to Blaisdell Center and then turned to introduce Allegra to his ‘guy’.

“Allegra, this is Montana Deskins.  He works with the video production crew as a camera operator, among other things.  Montana, meet my cousin Allegra, who is playing chef for the band.”

She scowled at her cousin before greeting the other man.  The two then immediately became engrossed in technical discussions, effectively forgetting her presence. 

Allegra honestly didn’t mind, especially since it her the opportunity to check out Montana unnoticed.  She couldn’t tell much from behind other than he had short dark hair, huge shoulders, and that the sleeves of his black t-shirt accentuated bulging biceps.  Well, and the fact that he smelled good.  When was the last time she’d lost herself in the scent of man’s cologne?  Forever, it seemed.

They arrived at the arena in a few moments time, and Montana extended his hand to escort her out of the van.  She smiled gratefully and thanked him, taking her first full-on look at his face.  Handsome in a very rugged kind of way.  Strong hands and forearms.  Nice. 

“Come on, Allegra,” Tony interrupted her thoughts.  “I’ll have Montana give you the fifty-cent tour.  I’d do it myself, but I’ve got to make sure the video gear is in place before Jon throws a fit.  If you want, you can hang around for sound check.  They usually only do it on the day of an actual show, but with all the new equipment, we’re trying everything out a couple of times.”

“Sounds great, if Montana doesn’t mind.” 

“No problem,” he assured her with a smile.  Allegra mentally added deep, sexy voice to his list of attributes.

He escorted her into the main area of the arena explaining that it was small in comparison to what she would see on the rest of the tour, seating only about 8,000.  They casually chatted as he took into the maze that was the backstage area. At one point, she saw Mike Rew from a distance and waved to him.

“This is Jon’s dressing room,” Montana pointed out as they walked down another corridor.  He proceeded, indicating the others’ dressing rooms as they passed.  “Tico’s, Dave’s and Richie’s.”  They paused in front Richie’s open door for a moment, and she spotted pictures of he and a young girl tacked to his dressing table.  Though the photos were in black and white, you could tell she was blonde with light colored eyes.

“What a beautiful little girl,” Allegra commented.

“That’s Richie’s daughter, Ava.”

“It’s nice that he makes a way to keep her with him on the road.”  Finally.  Something positive about Mr. Sambora.

“She’s the light of his life, that’s for sure.”  Cocking his head slightly to one side and listening, Montana said, “I can hear the guys warming up.  Would you like to go back out and listen?”

At her agreement, he placed his hand in the small of her back, and guided her back into the labyrinth of hallways they’d just come through. 

“So, Allegra, tell me something about yourself.  How did you end up on tour with Bon Jovi as a personal chef?”

She decided to keep it simple.  “I was at a crossroads in my life, and Jon was gracious enough to make room in his circus for one more.”

“What kind of crossroads?”

“I’ve spent the last twenty years in a…” she paused, grasping for the right words, “long term relationship.”

His look was sympathetic and understanding.  “I know divorce is rough, and ending a relationship after that long can’t be easy either.  I’m sorry.”

She didn’t respond, as they had arrived back in the main arena. He escorted her to a seat near the middle of the floor saying, “This should be a good place to watch from.  I’ve got to go help finish the video setup.  It has indeed been a pleasure Miss Allegra.  I hope to see you around.”

She flushed with pleasure at the comment and was about to respond in kind, when she heard a voice bellowing, “LEGS!!  Hey guys, it’s Legs!”

Spinning toward the stage at the loud voice, she found David waving madly and grinning.  The rest of the band members just shook their heads and laughed.  “Legs?”  she called across to him.  “Since when did I become Legs?”

He shrugged.  “Allegra takes too much time to say.  Legs is easier.”

She rolled her eyes and turned her back on him.  “Montana, thank you so much for showing me around.  I’m sure our paths will cross again.”

He ran his hand lightly from her shoulder to her elbow and assured her, “You can bet on it.”  With that, he turned and was on his way.  Allegra silently monitored his departure, her eyes dropping to the fit of his jeans.  One more outstanding attribute to add to the list…

“Legs!  Whatcha wanna hear?”  David continued to bellow.

Dragging her attention back to the stage, she called out, “How about Roulette?”   There was no way she was admitting to these guys that she wasn’t very familiar with their work.  Actually, she knew nothing past the third album.  

The guys exchanged a look of surprise at her selection.  That wasn’t one of their well-known songs, nor had it been a hit. 

“You don’t know any of the newer stuff, do you?” Jon asked suspiciously, as Richie raised an interested eyebrow.

Her sheepish expression may have been a dead giveaway, but she still tilted her chin up smugly.  “I know what I like,” she threw back, silently daring him to take it any further.

He gave her a knowing grin. “You heard the lady, boys.  Let’s go Rich!”

They were just finishing the last chorus when her cell phone vibrated.  Knowing that there was no way she’d be able to carry on a conversation with the music in the background she hurried out to the main hallway. 

“Hello?” she answered slightly out of breath.

“Allegra, hi!  It’s Dot.  I called to let you know that we’ll all be there about noon tomorrow.  Is everything still going according to plan?  They don’t suspect anything do they?”

She turned her back toward the doorway, leaning her shoulder against the wall.  “Hi Dot!  Everything is perfect.  The luau details have all been finalized.  I’ve found a couple of hula girls who double as instructors, and there will be fire dancers to provide after dinner entertainment.  The guys have no idea that their wives and girlfriends will be showing up as an early Valentine’s surprise!”

“Wonderful!  Thanks so much for helping us put it together.  I know the ladies will love it, and the guys will at least humor us.”  They both laughed at the truth of her statement.  Dot’s voice turned a bit anxious as she said, “There’s only one thing…” 

“What have I forgotten?”

“Richie.”

“Huh?”  Allegra was confused.

“Everyone there will have someone for Valentine’s Day but him.”

“Oh.  That honestly never crossed my mind, since you were the one who coordinated the wives.  That WILL be a bit awkward.  Do you have any suggestions?”

“As a matter of fact, I do.  Will you be joining us for the luau?”

Allegra hesitated before answering.  “I plan to stay and make sure everything goes smoothly.”

“Great!  Then you can be his date for the evening.  Problem solved!”

Riiiight…  “I just don’t think that’s practical, Dot.  I’ll be busy with the catering staff and won’t even be with the group most of the time.  Why don’t I just ask Richie if he would like to bring a date?” 

Dot sighed.  “What was it you told Jon?  ‘Don’t try pulling that bullshit on me’?  At least be honest, Allegra.  None of us can understand why you don’t like him. I know I’ve pretty much called him the devil incarnate, but he’s really a very sweet guy and gets along well with everyone.”

“I’m sure he is, but that doesn’t change anything.  I’ll be acting as staff tomorrow night, not a guest.”

“You cannot leave this man alone at a Valentine’s celebration, no matter how impromptu or unconventional it may be.”

“Dot, I’ll figure something out.”

“If you say so…”