Chapter 11

Richie sat on the deck in the late afternoon daylight, his notebook open on the little table next to him, his guitar in his lap. He idly strummed the guitar and glanced out across the water. He hadn’t played in days, hadn’t felt a need to even pick up the instrument. He looked to the door and beyond where he had left Stephanie asleep on the curtain shrouded bed.

Paddleboards had been the activity of choice that day. Stephanie had balked at first, she had never done it before, but he had convinced her to try it just once, promising her that if she didn’t like it they would do something else. A flash of his dimples had sealed the deal.

They had spent hours out on the water.

She had not only thoroughly enjoyed herself, she seemed to have had a knack for getting up on the board and keeping her balance too. Where he had toppled into the water more than once, she managed to stay upright and mostly dry. Until he had dragged her into the water with him. He snickered as he replayed the scene in his head. She had laughed at him the last time he fell in so he tipped her board and she joined him in the drink. She had tried to be mad at him, but he knew better. She, they were having too much fun and her laughter was all needed to hear to know there was nothing for him to worry about.

After their wrestling match in the water, they had come back to their bungalow for a wrestling match of another sort. And that would be why she was sleeping and he was out here with his guitar.

He strummed some more, picked up his pencil. The words floating around in his head landed on the paper. He noodled around a bit more and studied what he wrote. Could be something. He tested it out. Could be nothing. He scratched through it with his pencil, tossed it down on top of the notebook. Ignoring the paper and pencil, he sat back in the chair and played just for the pure enjoyment he got from playing.

His playing and low voice carried into the bungalow, rousing Stephanie from a light sleep. She rolled to sit up on the side of the bed, listening. Pulling on her silky robe, she tightened the belt and followed the music, pausing in the doorway to watch. A smile crept across her lips. He was slouched in the lounge chair, guitar across his lap, eyes closed and totally lost to the moment.

I missed you so much
That I begged you to fly and see me
You must've broke down
Coz you finally said that you would
But now that you're here
I just feel like I'm constantly dreaming

Coz something's gotta go wrong
Coz I'm feelin' way too damn good

For 48 hours I don't think that we left my hotel room
Should show you the sights
Coz I'm sure that I said that I would
We gotta make love just one last time in the shower

Well something's gotta go wrong
Coz I'm feelin' way too damn good

And it's like, every time I turn around
I fall in love and find my heart face down and
Where it lands is where it should
This time it's like
The two of us should probably start to fight
Coz something's gotta go wrong
Coz I'm feeling way too damn good, oh
Feelin' way too damn good

She recognized the Nickelback song and waited for him to finish. He stopped strumming and set the guitar aside, picking up the pencil again and flipping to a different page in his notebook. When he started writing she stepped out onto the deck.

“Rich?”

“Sweetheart” he dropped the pencil and closed the notebook. “I thought you were still sleeping.”

She took three short steps and was standing in front of him. “I heard you playing and singing, so I came out to see my own personal concert.”

He chuckled and took her hand, tugging her down on to the chair with him. “Wasn’t really a concert. I was just foolin’ around.”

She nodded toward the notebook on the table, “were you working on a new song?” Just the thought got her fangirl juices flowing.

“Nah, not really, just putting some ideas down so I don’t forget them.” He winced inwardly at the small fib he just told her. While he was writing ideas down, they weren’t for a song. Playing the guitar reminded him of the decision that was looming in his future. He danced his fingers up her thigh, sliding them under her robe to cup her hip and did his best to put those thoughts out of his head.

She maneuvered herself so she was straddling him on the chair. Eye to eye, she could see that something was troubling him. She thought back to their wedding night and remembered the pensiveness he had exhibited to her before he rocked her world on the balcony off their bedroom. “Are you all right? Do you want to talk about it?”

He loosened the sash on her robe and slipped his hand inside, cupping her breast. “I’m fine and not yet.” He knew he should, but he didn’t want anything to put a blemish on their honeymoon. Before she could say anything else he fastened his lips to hers, ending the conversation he wasn’t ready to have yet.

Easing back from the kiss, Stephanie took a steadying breath. “Why won’t you talk to me?” They had always been able to talk to each other. Why was he shutting her out now?

He skimmed his thumb back and forth lightly under an already tight nipple. “Not ready to yet, darlin’.” He leaned up, replacing his thumb with his tongue. “Do you really want to talk right now?” When they got home would be soon enough to talk about him ripping his life apart and starting all over again. He drew the taut nub into his mouth.

Her head dropped back, her hair cascading down her back, all thoughts of conversation scattering around her like grains of sand on the deck. “God Rich, don’t stop.” She rocked against him seeking that extra little bit of friction that would send her flying.

He let her nipple go with an audible “pop” and stood with her in his arms, “let’s go back inside.” He was no prude but he didn’t want the entire island to see his wife naked. Laying her on the bed he simply stood and stared at her. Her dark hair was spread in a dark fan on the white pillowcase and her robe was like a pink cape under her. Her skin was dusky, gold from the sun except where her bathing suit protected the most private parts of her.

Reaching behind his head, he pulled at the collar of his shirt, dropping it on the floor even as he unbuttoned his shorts. They had no sooner joined his shirt when he climbed up on the end of the bed. His mouth was butterfly light as he caressed her calves. His tongue lightly grazed the backs of her knees as he slid higher. He nibbled gently at the inside of her thighs.

She shifted restlessly beneath him, knowing what was coming. “Rich” she whispered hoarsely, nearly unable to stand the anticipation.

He ignored her plea, continuing to worship her body with his hands, his lips, his tongue. He kept her on a teetering edge, watching the rosy flush of arousal creep over her body before finally sending her soaring. Before she got her breath fully back, he flipped her onto her stomach and started all over again.

When she was on the brink a second time, he pulled her to her knees, plunging into her, glorying in the feeling of completeness he felt with her. It was like no other he’d had before. With every push, every thrust he could feel her gathering, tightening around him. A hand slipped from her hip; long, agile fingers slid to her clit, teasing her along. And with a last push, a final caress, he joined her in a free fall over the edge.

Chapter 10

He watched her as she finished getting dressed. She wore a filmy, floaty, sundress on a rich red that left her shoulders and back bare. Her hair was a wild tumble of gypsy curls that fell in a waterfall of deep brown down her back. She was stunning. He came to stand behind her, pressing a light kiss to a shoulder that was a bit more pink than golden brown from the hours they had spent in the sun that day. She had been liberal with the sunscreen for them both, but the south Pacific sun had won the battle and she was left with a bit of a burn on her shoulders and, his gaze drifted to hers in the mirror, the tip of her nose. It left a dusting of freckles on the apples of her cheeks. It did nothing to detract from her lovely face.

He ran his fingers through his hair while she fussed with her face and finding her shoes. He knew she thought he hadn’t made any plans for them beyond arranging their travel and accommodations, but she couldn’t be more wrong. He hadn’t filled every day with activities, because, hey, honeymoon, but he had a few tricks up his sleeve. Tonight they were having a private dinner on a secluded portion of beach. They had taken a helicopter tour of the islands earlier before spending the afternoon on the beach and in the water. They were set for snorkeling later in the week and there were paddleboards with their names on them one of the other days. He pulled his phone from his pocket, he had reserved seats for them at a traditional Polynesian dinner and show one night too. He opened the calendar app; that was next week. He had built in enough quiet days of no plans to balance out the busyness.

Her hand on his forearm had him tucking the phone away. He looked her up and down, “you are a picture, Sweetheart. Red is definitely your color.” She very rarely wore red and he knew that was because of him. Yes he was colorblind to red, brown and green, but when each color was on its own, he had no trouble discerning it. He tried to remember the last woman who took his colorblindness into consideration when they decided what to wear. He couldn’t come up with one, other than the one he was looking at.

The urge to touch her had his hand moving and cupping her cheek. His thumb lightly caressed her cheek. She lifted her head slightly, her eyes, brilliantly green tonight, met his and her lips dropped open. He touched his lips to hers, a barely there kiss, just enough for a taste of her. He stepped back before could act on the temptation to say the hell with dinner and he took her right here on the floor.

“Rich?” His name was a near breathless whisper off her lips. She kept her eyes on him. He was so lost in his own thoughts she wasn’t able to read him.

He closed his eyes and took a breath, her scent surrounded him. If he didn’t get them out of here now, they wouldn’t leave again until the morning. He took her hand and led her outside where the tender boat was waiting to take them to the beach. After helping her board, he settled next to her on the bench seat and slid his arm around her shoulders.

She nestled in to him and rested her head on his shoulder. “Are you okay?”

Turning his head toward hers, he pressed his lips to her head, “couldn’t be better. Why?”

She closed her eyes, “you seemed, I don’t know” she trailed off. He hadn’t seemed upset or anything like that. “Introspective I guess is the word I’m looking for.”

He rubbed his hand lightly up and down her arm, “just thinking about how beautiful you are and how lucky I am.”

She smiled and pressed her lips to his throat. “I’m the lucky one.” She felt the boat bump the dock. “Are we wherever we’re supposed to be?” She had no idea where they were going, just that they were having dinner somewhere on the island.

Richie stood and tugged her up with him, “we’re here, Sweetheart.” He took her hand and helped her off the boat, “come on.” They followed the dock to where wood met sand and he stopped.

Stephanie nearly bumped in to him, so engrossed in what she was looking at she didn’t realized he stopped. “Oh, Richie.” She moved around him and just stared. Tiki torches and candles lit the way to where a table set for two and two high back chairs waited. The setting sun sparkled across the water and the waves lapped gently at the shore. She looked back at him, “it’s so beautiful.”

He took her hand and led her across the sand to where the concierge from the hotel was waiting. “Bienvenue” Welcome. He led them to the table and got them settled. Bon appétit. Enjoy your meal.

“Merci” they thanked him as he walked away.

Their waiter was attentive but unobtrusive and, once their meals were served, left them to their own. Richie took her hand across the table. The candlelight gave her skin a warm glow. “Are you enjoying yourself so far?”

She sipped her wine, “how could I not?” She looked around and back at him, “you know, I thought Hawaii was the most lush, gorgeous tropical island I’d ever seen. This,” she gestured around them with her free hand, “this beats Hawaii by miles.” She sipped her wine again. “I still find it hard to believe I’m here. With you.”

He took a bite of his dinner. Even after all this time she was still uncertain about them? “Sweetheart, why do you keep doubting us?”

She set her fork down. “I’m not doubting. It’s just sometimes I look at you and I have to remind myself that this really is my life now.”

“How long before we met had you been a fan?” This was one thing they very rarely talked about. He knew she had been and still was a fan, but he really didn’t know much about that aspect of her.

“When did you release Runaway?” she asked blandly.

He nodded in understanding. “So you know that, from the very beginning, we always said we were just regular guys from Jersey, right?”

“Yeah, I know, but you have to look at it from where I’m sitting. I’m a normal, everyday girl from western New York, raised in a working class neighborhood with no aspirations to be famous. The radio and MTV introduced me to you and the band, but NEVER in my wildest dreams, well maybe my wildest dreams but never in my regular dreams did I ever think I’d end up as Mrs. Richard Stephen Sambora.”

He smiled at her, giving her the dimples she was so fond of. “Did you hear the first part of your statement?”

“What, that I’m a normal everyday girl from a working class family and neighborhood?” At his nod she added, “so?”

“So, where do you think I came from? Just trade western New York for central New Jersey and we had the same upbringing.”

She sighed, “but you’re famous and I’m still just a normal, everyday girl from western New York.”

“Do you want to be famous?” He was sure he knew the answer to that question. She hated that side of his life, she dealt with it, but she hated it.

She smirked, “hell no. I’ve seen what you have to put up with and on occasion what I have to deal with. I’ll stay in your shadow, thank you very much.”

He sat back in his chair, “but in my heart, at my core, I’m still that same guy from Jersey.”

She tried one more time to get him to understand. “I understand that, but try this. Is there someone, stage actress, screen siren, musician that you haven’t met and would fanboy hard over if you did?”

He mulled over her question, “well, back in the day, Farrah Fawcett was hot.”

Stephanie laughed, “Back in the day?! How old are you again?”

“Brat!”

“Anyway” she chuckled, “imagine now you met her and ended up married to her.” She watched the light come into his eyes when he finally understood. “So you see, I don’t doubt us, not in the least. It’s just sometimes I have to pinch myself because this is my life now.”

He set aside his napkin and stood, holding out his hand to her, “come here.”

She put her hand in his and stood in the circle of his arms.

Caught between the candlelight and moonlight, he moved them in a lazy circle to a tune he hummed quietly. “It’s all about the choices we make” he murmured “with a bit of luck, karma, whatever tossed in for good measure.”

Tilting her head up, she pressed kisses along his jaw. “Choices and luck, huh? I guess I made the right choice in going to The Grove that day with my friends.”

His lips found hers. “You did.”

She kissed him languidly. “And karma had us running into each other everywhere.”

“She can be a persistent bitch sometimes.”

Stephanie smiled up at him, “and thank God for that.”

Chapter 9

The sun was just peeking over the mountain when Stephanie opened her eyes. She ached deliciously all over. Their first few days in paradise had been nothing short of spectacular. Even if they hadn’t seen anything outside of their bungalow yet. Well, anything other than the chaise lounges outside the sliding door to their bedroom. Richie was taking his husbandly honeymoon duties very seriously.

Pushing the sheet off, she rolled to the edge of the bed and sat up. She’d been horizontal much too long though. She needed some vertical time before she forgot how to use her legs for something other than to anchor herself to Richie.

Using those legs, she made her way to the bathroom and heeded Mother Nature’s call. A glance at the mirror had her running her hands through her hair and pulling it up into a messy knot on top of her head while she brushed the night from her mouth. Stepping back into the bedroom, she noted Richie hadn’t moved. She quietly found a tank and shorts in a drawer and, pulling them on, she slipped outside.

Leaning against the railing she gazed out over the turquoise water of the lagoon. She was itching to explore all the island had to offer. As much as she knew Richie was all about indoor activities, her lady parts needed a break. He couldn’t expect to keep her in that bed for the entire ten days, could he? She snorted out a laugh at the absurdity of that thought. This was Richie, of course he could. Inhaling deeply of the ocean air, she raised her arms up over her head and stretched. It wouldn’t be a hardship, but as much as she loved her husband and loved sharing a bed, couch, shower, whatever flat surface with him, she really wanted to see and do things other than each other.

Richie slid his hand across the mattress, looking for his wife. He found cold, empty sheets where her warm body should be. 

Where is she? 

He rolled over and opened his eyes, squinting against the rising sun. He saw her outside on the deck. Pushing the sheet off, he sat up and made his way to the bathroom. After a short stop to empty his bladder and brush his teeth, he pulled on a pair of light, cotton pants and stepped outside. He moved up behind Stephanie, bracing his arms on the railing on either side of her.

“Good morning” he murmured in her ear as he nibbled her lobe.

“Hmmmm” she shuddered. She was no match for the raspy, morning voice and her sensitivity to his touch, goosebumps bloomed on her skin. “Good morning to you too.”

Releasing the railing, he wrapped his arms around her and held her close, “what are you doing up and out here so early?”

She leaned against him, resting her arms on his across her abdomen. “I had to use the bathroom and I needed to be vertical for a while.” She felt his chuckle before she heard it.

“We have spent a bit of time on our backs, haven’t we?”

“I’m not complaining, but I’d like to see something other than the curtains around the bed while we’re here.”

He hugged her tight, “I’ve got no problem with that, Sweetheart. What would you like to do today?”

She turned in his arms so she could see his face, “other than you, you mean?”

His dimples flashed as he grinned and one of his hands slid down and gave her a light smack on her bottom. “Smart ass. Didn’t you just say you wanted to go exploring?”

Rising up on tiptoes, she pressed her lips to his, “coffee and breakfast sound like a good place to start.”

Together they walked back into their bungalow, he paused before heading toward the kitchen “you want to eat here or do you wanna walk up to the resort and see what we can find there?”

She pursed her lips as she considered, “why don’t we shower and head up there for breakfast while we figure out what we want to do today?”

His hand slid over the stubble on his chin and down to idly scratch his chest, “you think if we shower together you can control yourself?”

Sticking her tongue out at him, she pulled her tank top off and threw it at him, “ass.”

He laughed as her shorts followed the same path as her shirt, “hey, you’re the one who wants to be, what was it you said?” He followed her into the bathroom, “oh yeah, vertical I think is the term you used.”

She pulled the band from her hair and tossed it on the counter, “Yeah, well, I think the better question” she starated as she turned to start the shower, “is can you control yourself?”

He moved up behind her, crowding her against the shower door, she could feel him hardening against her back. “you know I can’t around you, Sweetheart.” He didn’t give her a chance to say anything before nudging her into the shower, “get in and I’ll try to behave.”

She let the water flow over her while she watched him drop his pants and climb in after her, his half hard cock begging for her attention. They switched places and, pushing her wet hair from her face, she dropped to her knees in front of him. He blinked the water from his eyes as he looked down at her, “I thought you needed a break?” He hissed when he felt her tongue slide down the length of him. “Darlin’” he warned.

She looked up at him, “I’m still vertical” was all she said before taking him into her mouth. Her lady bits may have needed a break, but her mouth still worked. Settling her hands on his hips, she took him deeper before sliding back and swirling her tongue around the head.

Richie closed his eyes and braced a hand on the wall. He wasn’t going to last much longer. Seeing her naked always got him going, but having her naked and willingly on her knees? You might as well drop the lid on his coffin and dig the grave. He could die a very happy man. And, fuck… “Darlin’,” his hand left the wall and gripped her head, “suck it, suck it hard.” He was ready to blow. “Fuck yea, that’s it” he growled and pumped his hips.

She felt him tense and she took him deep, swallowing every bit. With a final glide of her tongue and a kiss to the tip, she looked up at him. His eyes were still closed and his hand left her head to brace against the wall again. She smiled, “think you can behave yourself now?”

Taking a deep breath he shook his head and laughed, “never.” He helped her up from her knees, “come on smart ass, let’s finish and go get some breakfast.”

Chapter 8

The eight hour flight seemed interminable.  Stephanie knew the destination would be worth it, but she was more than ready to get off the plane.   She unbuckled her seatbelt and paced the aisle to the bathroom and back.  After spending her time working outdoors with Habitat, it was a struggle to be cooped up in this metal tube with wings.  The slight layover in Hawaii had helped a little, but she really could use some fresh air, and a walk that included sand under her feet.  She stopped by her seat.  

Richie closed his notebook, slipped the pen into the spiral binding and reclined his seat.  “What’s wrong?”

She sat back down, “I can't get comfortable and I'm ready to be anywhere” she gestured around them with her hand, “that’s not here.”

He raised the armrest between them and patted his shoulder, “come on, put your head right here.”

She gave him half a smile and reclined her seat.  “I don’t need a nap.”

He waited for her to get comfortable then handed her a set of headphones.  “So, let’s watch a movie.”  Maybe that would help her settle down.  

She put the headphones on and snuggled into her man and dozed off to Mark Wahlberg and and his antics with his come-to-life teddy bear Ted.

After a short stop at Tahiti’s Fa’a’ā International Airport, Stephanie groaned quietly but held her tongue when they boarded a smaller plane for the short hop to Bora Bora’s Motu Mute Airport.  Richie took her hand, “‘we’re almost there Sweetheart.”  

She settled into her seat, snapping on her seatbelt.  “I hope so.  I’m more than ready to be done with airplanes.”  Glancing out across the water it was hard to complain with the view of turquoise water and mountain vista.  

After deplaning on Bora Bora, and making their way through customs, they were greeted by a representative from the Four Seasons Resort.   

“Bon Jour” he placed a fragrant flower lei around Stephanie’s neck.  “Bienvenue.”  Welcome.

“Bon Jour” Stephanie smiled “merci beaucoup.”  She thanked the man and she and Richie followed him to retrieve their bags and head out to the boat that would take them to the main island of Bora Bora.

Stephanie goggled at what they were calling a boat.  The “boat” was actually a luxurious Andreyale yacht complete with air conditioning, leather seats, cool towels to refresh themselves with and ice cold Evian bottled water.  She turned to look at Richie, “all this” she waved her hand around, “wasn’t necessary you know.”  She would have been fine with a simple tender boat and an every-day hotel room with a beach view. This was a little over the top for her.

He shrugged her off and opened a bottle of water.  “I know, but again, Sweetheart, it’s our honeymoon, it should be a bit more special than any other trip or vacation.  Let me spoil you for the week, would ya?”  He cast his gaze out the window.  She rarely let him do anything for her.  She was always telling him not to spend his money on her.  It was as close to a real blow up that they had ever come to about co-mingling their respective and sizeable assets, but she was his wife now damn it and if he wanted to spend a bit more lavishly for their honeymoon, he fucking well would.

Blowing out a breath, Stephanie grabbed a bottle of water for herself and took Richie’s hand.  “Come and sit outside with me?”  If she was going to be in the tropics, she wasn’t going to spend it inside in air conditioning.

They sat outside, letting the warm, tropical breeze blow the stale, airplane air off of them.  Stephanie couldn’t wait to get to their resort and take a dip in the pool or a shower to rid herself of the travel ick that clung to her.  “I’m sorry.  I’m being a cranky bitch and I didn’t mean to piss you off.”

He squeezed her hand, “I’m not mad, but could you please just let me do this for you, without any of that ‘I don’t need it’ bullshit you’re always spouting at me.  I, no, we have the money and I want to spend it on you.”

Even after all this time, she was still worried that he would think she was taking advantage if she let him pay for things.  It was ridiculous and after this, she had to find a way to let it go.  They were married now and what was his was hers and vice versa.  “Okay.”  She kissed his cheek.  “Okay, Rich, you’re right.  And thank you for doing this for us.  It’s going to be amazing.”  She looked around at the resort as the yacht slowed and drifted to the dock.  “It’s so beautiful here.  I may not want to leave next week.”

He wrapped his arm around her shoulders and pulled her into him.  “Thank you.  And you know, we can always come back if you like it here that much.”

“I’m going to hold you to that” she said as they stepped from the yacht.

They made their way into the open air lobby and were greeted with passion fruit smoothies as they checked in.  Stephanie wandered while Richie took care of registering them.  She inhaled deeply, the scent of the ocean combined with the tropical flowers went a long way to alleviate the travel crankiness that she was carrying around like a backpack.  She turned to head back in, she wanted a shower, a dip in that stunningly blue water, an adult beverage, not necessarily in that order.  She sidled up to Richie and took his hand, “we all set?”

He squeezed her hand, “come on, let’s go.  Our bungalow awaits.”

The  boat stopped in front of the overwater bungalow at the furthest point from the beach.  

Holy Jesus.  

She had seen pictures of the huts with thatched roofs on stilts over crystal clear water, but she had never dreamed she’d ever have the opportunity to stay in one.  She grinned at Richie as he helped her from the boat and onto the steps that led up to their home for the next 10 days.   “I can’t believe this.”  She took her bag and climbed the rest of the way and stopped on the deck.   The view of Mt. Otemanu was incredible.  

Richie came up behind her and handed her the keys, “go ahead Sweetheart, open the door.”

She took the keys and opened the sliding door.  Before she could take a step, Richie swept her up into his arms and crossed over the threshold.  “Richie!”  She laughed as he strolled through to the bedroom and dropped her unceremoniously onto the bed.   She levered up on her elbows as he crawled up next to her.  He reached around and pulled her over on top of him.  “That was mean” she tried to sound mad but it was impossible when confronted with his dimples.  

“Got you where I wanted you though” he chuckled as she shifted and straddled his hips.

She pushed at her hair and rocked against his burgeoning erection.  “Really?”

He pulled her down to him, his lips taking hers in a kiss that was as sultry as the tropical breeze that billowed the sheer curtains around the bed.  “I’ve been waiting all day to be alone with you Sweetheart” he murmured as his mouth moved from her lips to her jaw, her neck.   His hands slid under her shirt, long, agile fingers made quick quick work of the clasp of her bra.  Sitting up, he cradled her bottom in his lap and dragged her shirt and bra up and off.  

Burying a hand in her hair, he gently tugged her head back.  A gentle scrape of his teeth against her delicate skin had her shuddering.  Leaning forward he laid her back on the bed.  His hips between hers he ground against her even as his fingers made quick work of the button and zipper of her jeans.  When she was naked, he looked down on her, “you are so beautiful” he whispered as his lips touched her skin.  He touched, he sipped, he tasted every exquisite inch of her.  

When she was nearly incoherent with need he stripped off his pants and moved back over her, “darlin’.”  When she didn’t respond he tried again, “darlin’, look at me.”  He found her hands, twined their fingers together, “come on darlin’.”  He teased her hot, wet center with the tip of his cock.   Her hips rose to take him but still she didn’t open her eyes.  “Look at me” he urged.

Her eyes fluttered open, the green/brown orbs nearly black with want.  “Please” she begged even as she lifted her hips again.  

He shifted his hips and slid fully inside her.  He felt the tightening of her muscles and she went taught as a bow string as her orgasm consumed her.  The effort not to just let go was herculean.  He hung on and even as she started to come down, he pushed her, pushed them up once more.  

Chapter 7

“Where are we going again?”  Stephanie asked as she looked at the pitiful contents of her suitcase.  Richie had taken charge of their honeymoon and had been unusually stingy with details.  All he would tell her was that she pretty much only needed to pack a bathing suit, cover up and flip flops.  Nothing much else. 

He poked his head out of the bathroom.  “I didn’t.”

“But,” she tried again.

 

He crossed the room to her and put a finger over lips, cutting off any more questions.  “No.  No more questions.”  He glanced at her suitcase before leaving her standing there and opening her closet.  He picked out a couple of sundresses and dropped them on the bed before heading to her dresser.  He grabbed whatever landed in his hand first and dropped the lot on the bed as well.  “You’re good.”

She looked at what he had on the bed and had to laugh.  The dresses were fine but the underwear, she just shook her head.  “None of that matches.” 

He grinned wickedly and shrugged his shoulders, “so what.  I can guarantee you won’t need much, if any, of it anyway.”

She huffed out a frustrated sigh and folded the dresses.  She was almost certain they were going to Hawaii just based on what she was putting into her suitcase.  She picked up the bras and panties and went back to her dresser to make sure everything matched and, with a glance over her shoulder to make sure he wasn’t watching, she pulled out her newest purchase and buried it under everything else.  She added a pair of real shoes and her sneakers.  She had started running after Lily had been born and she thought maybe she’d get at least one run on the beach in.   She zipped the case, if she needed anything else, she would just have to do some shopping. 

She followed Richie out of the room and caught Lily as she raced down the hall, “whoa there baby doll, where’s the fire?’

“No fire, mama.”  Her forehead scrunched up in confusion. 

“Then why are you running down the hall?”  Stephanie found herself sounding like her mother with the number of times a day she had to remind Lily not to run in the house.

Lily smiled angelically, “gotta pee mama!”

Stephanie took three long strides and deposited her child in the bathroom, “wash your hands when you’re done baby doll.” 

Lily danced in the front of the toilet, “yes mama.  Go!”

Stephanie stepped out and partially shut the door so Lily could take care of business.  Privacy was a new thing Lily was experimenting with and she wanted no one in the bathroom with her.  Stephanie headed down the stairs to where Richie was waiting. 

“Everything okay?”

She moved in to him, wrapping her arms around him. “Everything is just perfect.”

Richie’s arms came around her and he pressed his lips to the top of her head. “Good.  We need to head out soon.”  He glanced up the stairs to see Lily start down.  “Hold on to the railing baby girl.”  He watched every step, half tempted to just go get her and bring her down himself.  He was terrified she was going to trip and tumble all the way to the bottom.   When she got to the last step, Richie let go of Stephanie and scooped up his daughter.  “Good job baby girl.”

Lily wrapped her little arm around her father’s neck and rested her head against his cheek.  “I know daddy.”  She saw their suitcases.  “I go too?”

Richie walked with her toward the kitchen where he could hear voices.  “Not this time.  You need to stay here and take care of your grandmamas.”

“And her auntie” Jess added when they stopped in the doorway.

Richie smiled and set the toddler on her feet.  “Of course Jess.”  He looked down at Lily, “you think you can get Auntie Jess to behave too?”

Lily nodded her head, sending her pigtails swinging, “yep or time-out.”

The adults laughed.  “That’s right baby girl.”  Richie eyed Stephanie’s sister, “you heard the boss.  You don’t behave yourself you get a time out.”

Jess laughed at him.  “You calling me a troublemaker?”

“Takes one to know one” he shot back.

Stephanie just shook her head in amusement.  This could go on all afternoon.  Two peas in a pod they were.  She was just glad her family and her husband got along so well.  “Rich, I think you need a time out.”

His eyes widened in mock surprise, “me?  Why me?”

She let her bottom lip out in a soft pout.  “Because you’re mean.  You won’t tell me where we’re going.”

He stepped closer to her and traced her full bottom lip with his finger.  “All in good time my pretty.”  He pulled his phone from his pocket, “and that time is almost now.”  He dropped a kiss to her lips.  “Car’s here.”

They made their way out the front door and said their goodbyes as the driver loaded their bags into the trunk.  Stephanie picked up Lily, “all right baby doll.  You be good for your grandmamas and your aunties.”  She covered Lily’s cheeks in kisses. 

Lily shrieked out a laugh when Stephanie nosed into her neck and blew a raspberry.  “Mama!”

Stephanie eased up, “baby doll!” 

Lily gave her mother an angel smile and her little hands came up to cup Stephanie’s face.  “Love you mama.”

Stephanie squeezed her daughter and tried to hold her tears at bay.  This was the first time they were leaving Lily for more than one night.  “Love you too baby doll.” 

Richie reached for Lily and Stephanie slid into the backseat of the dark sedan.  “Come on baby girl.”  He took his turn with kisses and hugs.  “You be good and we’ll bring you back a present.” 

Lily smiled and pressed a smacking kiss to Richie’s cheek.  “’Kay daddy.  Love you!”

He gave her one final squeeze and handed her off to Jess.  “Love you too baby girl.”  He hugged Jess and Lily together.   “We’ll see you in 10 days.”

With a final wave the driver pulled away and they headed down the drive. 

Stephanie sniffled and reached for a tissue as they headed down the highway and Richie pulled her close.  “She’ll be fine Sweetheart.”

Stephanie nodded and dashed away her tears.  “I know.  It’s just, we haven’t left her for this long before.  I miss her already.”

“I know.  I do too, but it’s our honeymoon.  We’ll take her and Ava somewhere a bit more family friendly when we get back.”

“Disneyland” Stephanie suggested.  It was Ava’s favorite place and she had been wanting to take Lily now that she was a little older.

“Now, that’s a perfect idea.  They’ll love it.”

Stephanie leaned back and raised her head, pressing her lips to his in an easy kiss.  “Can you tell me now where we’re going?”

Richie glanced out the window to see that they were getting off the exit for the airport.  “Might as well, you’re going to find out soon enough.”  The car made its way around to departures and slowed to a stop at the international gate.

Stephanie stepped out of the car and caught the logo on the back end of a plane that was coming in for a landing.  “Air Tahiti?”

 Holy Jumping Up and Down. 

She turned to Richie, her face alight with a surprised smile.  “We’re going to Tahiti?!”  This was a bucket list trip for her and he was making it happen.  She tried to think if she had ever mentioned it, but it didn’t matter.  How he continued to know these things about her or find them out, she didn’t know, but whatever that special radar he had about her, she hoped he never lost it. 

 Richie moved around the car to stand in front of her, “surprise?”

She moved in to him, hugging him tightly, “best one ever!”

“Good.”  He tipped her chin up and kissed her lightly.  “Come on Mrs. Sambora” and damn, didn’t that sound good?  “Let’s get checked in and get through security.  It’s going to be a long travel day."

She followed him, dragging her suitcase behind her.  “I thought for sure we were going to Hawaii.”

He led them to the ticket counter/check in line for first class. “We can go there anytime.  This is a special occasion and it called for a special trip.”

She grabbed his free hand and gave him a squeeze.  “Thank you.”

He brought her hand to his lips, kissing the back of it. “Don’t thank me yet. You haven’t seen our bungalow on Bora Bora.”

Chapter 6

Stepping into the bedroom, Richie loosened his tie as he crossed the room and opened the French doors, letting the night air in to their room.  He stepped out onto the terrace and looked around.  The backyard was quiet now, the fairy lights no longer twinkled in the trees.  The candles and torches had been extinguished, save a couple scattered near the hot tub where someone still lingered. 

He pulled the tie from his collar and slipped his suit jacket off, laying both over the railing, the moonlight glinting off the platinum band on his finger.  He rubbed it with the pad of his thumb.  It felt good, right, in a way little had for far too long. 

The deep timber of Jon’s laugh drifted up to him.  Richie thought of the changes that his life was insistent on taking.  A sigh escaped him and he tried to let it all go.  He was supposed to be focusing on his new bride and their wedding night.  He turned to sit on the chaise to wait for Stephanie and found her standing in the doorway.  “Hey Sweetheart.  Lily go down okay?”

She nodded, "out like a light."  She cocked her head and studied him for a moment.  Something was on his mind.  Something other than wedding festivities and wedding night activities.  “Wanna talk about it?”

He reached for her, grasping her hand and tugging her close.  “Not really.  Not tonight.”  But he felt steadier for knowing that he could tell her anything and she would listen, really listen, not just offer up platitudes or say whatever she thought he wanted to hear.  She’d help him work through it and help him find the right answer, for him.  She was one in a million.  He dipped his head, his mouth stopped a breath away from hers.  “No talking tonight, unless I’m whispering all the dirty things I want to do to you in your ear.”

Still on a slow burn from their first dance, Stephanie’s knees weakened and she felt the flush rise up her chest to her face.  “Talk dirty to me, Rich.”

His mouth took hers, the kiss as slow and sensual as their first dance had been.  He trailed his fingers up and down her spine again.  He swallowed her groan.  “You make me fucking crazy when you wear things like this.”  His fingers dipped into the low back of her dress.  His lips nipped at hers, “knowing you haven’t been wearing a bra” his fingers slid up her back again, tangling in her hair until he found the clasp at the back of her neck.  “I’ve been fucking hard since you stepped out on the damn patio tonight.”  He released the catch and the front of her dress dropped, leaving her top half naked.  He didn’t touch her yet.  His hands slid around to her back again, seeking out the zipper.  Finding it, he lowered it, slowly, one metallic click at a time. 

She writhed against him, her nipples hard and aching as they brushed against the front of his shirt.  She couldn’t seem to get her bearings, couldn’t make her arms move.  “Please” she murmured against his mouth. 

“Please what, darlin’?”  The dress dropped to the patio leaving her clad in only the tiniest, laciest excuse for underwear he had ever seen her wear.  “Fuck me.”

“No” she whispered. 

“No?”

She got her arms to move and her fingers worked the buttons of his shirt.  “No, Rich.  Fuck me.”  She pushed at his shirt, “now.”  She couldn’t stand it.  She needed him to touch her, to take her, needed him to be inside her.

Dropping his shirt behind him, he lifted her from the pink puddle of her dress and set her on the table, pressing her back until she braced herself on her arms.  “Oh, there will be fucking, but there’s no hurry tonight darlin’.”  His fingers skimmed down her front, between her breasts, tracing along the lacy band of her good-for-nothing panties.  He heard her breath hitch and he snuck two fingers inside the scrap of lace.  “I hope you’re not too attached to these.”

She shook her head as he tugged.  “They served their purpose.”

His eyes shot to hers, incredulous.  “Who are you again?”  He gave one last sharp tug and the panties came away in his fingers and he tossed them over toward her dress. 

Her husky chuckle was cut off when his fingers delved inside her.  “I’m your wife” her breath caught again when he twisted his fingers and rubbed, finding the spot that nearly rocketed her off the table.  “Jesus Rich, just fuck me already.”

He slowly pumped his fingers in and out of her, bringing his thumb into play across her clit.  “No, the woman I married wouldn’t purposely try to drive me insane with tiny bits of pink lace.”

Her head dropped back and her hips lifted to meet each maddeningly slow stroke.  “I thought” she nearly stuttered when his thumb made a slow circle.  She swallowed heavily.  “Wedding gift…” he did that circle thing again with his thumb and she very nearly came apart.  “I thought they’d make a nice wedding gift.”

His fingers stopped moving, “that so?” 

She nodded.

“Well” he dropped to his knees with a grin.  “Let me show my appreciation properly then.”  He kissed up the inside of her thigh, “just be quiet Sweetheart” he shifted his glance out across the backyard.  He could just make out the silhouettes by the hot tub.  “There are still a few people out there.”

She was so close that whoever was out on the patio could have been right here on the terrace with them and she wouldn’t have cared less.  “Just hurry up for fuck’s sake!”

He took his time.  Like a cat with cream, he savored every bit of her.  When she was writhing against him, he sucked gently on her clit, keeping her right on that keen edge of orgasm.  When she went, he was going to be inside her and they would hit that crescendo together. 

She was so close she was going to fly apart and not even humpty dumpty’s men would be able to put her back together again.  She buried her hands in his hair and tugged, “Rich, God, please!”  Why was he torturing her?

Easing back he freed his hair and stood, opening his pants.  He was so hard he couldn’t be sure he would blow his load the minute he got inside her.  “I’m here” he murmured,” finding her mouth with his, “I’m right here, Sweetheart.”  He pulled her to the edge of the table and plunged into her.

She reached up and gripped his shoulder, her relief so great at finally having him where she wanted him that her orgasm roared through her like a freight train, taking them both on a wild ride until both were limp and spent.  She nearly fell back against the table, Richie’s grip kept her upright.  Panting he raised his head, “hang on.”  He sucked in a deep breath, blew it out.  Did it a second time.  “Darlin’, are you okay?”

Her hand slid from his shoulder, laying limply on table.  “I think so.”  She breathed deeply and the table rocked under her.  “Not so sure about the table though.”

He shuffled back, helping her to stand, “we can replace it.” 

“Again you mean?”  Smirking, she took another steadying breath.

Sucking in more air he chuckled as he toed off his shoes and dragged off his pants.  “Yes, again.  Smartass.  Let’s go inside.  We’re not likely to break the bed tonight.”

Chapter 5

They mingled and accepted the hugs and kisses and congratulations of their family and friends.  They ate and drank and laughed and kissed every time someone demandingly tapped their glass with whatever utensil was handy.  When dinner was cleared away and the tables rearranged, Richie turned on the sound system and music flooded the back yard.  Stepping back outside, he searched out and found Stephanie sitting with their daughter and her family.

He had been waiting for this moment since she stepped out onto the patio.  She once again managed to take his breath with a pretty dress and a soft smile.   She had been his since that day in her kitchen when a storm raged outside and the lights went out.  But today she finally left the ghost of lives past behind her and she was now officially a Sambora. 

He came up to her and held out a hand, “dance with me sweetheart.”  Wordlessly, she took his hand and stood following him to the “dance floor” and with a slight spin she was in his arms as the song started.  He hummed along with Brian McKnight as they moved in a small, slow circle in front of the pool.

It's undeniable
That we should be together
It's unbelievable
How I used to say
That I'd fall never
The basis is need to know
If you don't know
Just how I feel
Then let me show you now
That I'm for real
If all things in time
Time will reveal

One
You're like a dream come true
Two
Just want to be with you
Three
Girl, it's plain to see
That you're the only one for me
And four
Repeat steps one through three
Five
Make you fall in love with me

If ever I believe my work is done
Then I'll start back at one

It's so incredible
The way things work themselves out
And all emotional
Once you know what it's all about, hey
And undesirable
For us to be apart
I never would have made it very far
'Cause you know you've got the keys to my heart

He skimmed his hand up and down her back, relishing in the goose bumps he could feel as his fingers settled in the small of her back.  “You look amazing Sweetheart” he murmured.  “But you know what this does to me.”  His fingers danced up and down her spine again.  “You make me want to drag you off and have my way with you, and the hell with everyone else out here.”

She inhaled sharply and her nipples hardened to stiff peaks inside her dress.  She raised her gaze and her smile turned slightly wicked.  “Why do you think I picked this particular dress?”  She pressed herself flush against him, pressing her hips against his and giving a slight shimmy.

He groaned, “how did I miss this evil streak of yours?” 

She just chuckled quietly and nipped along his jaw.  “I only let it out on special occasions.”  She pressed her hips against him again.

He shifted again, “you know two can play this game, right?” 

She just raised her eyebrows at him the challenge clear in her witchy eyes.

He skimmed a hand up her back again, his thumb scraping softly against the soft skin at her side, at the just barely showing side of her breast. 

She sucked in a breath and her nipples tightened even more.  “Rich” she warned.

His thumb moved in slow circles, inching inside the side of her dress, a flutter along the lower curve of her breast.  “I told you.”

The song continued to play and they were oblivious to everything and everyone around them.

One
You're like a dream come true
Two
Just want to be with you
Three
Girl, it's plain to see
That you're the only one for me
And four
Repeat steps one through three
Five
Make you fall in love with me
If ever I believe my work is done
Then I'll start back at one

Say farewell to the dark of night
I see the coming of the sun
I feel like a little child
Whose life has just begun
You came and breathed new life
Into this lonely heart of mine
You threw out of the lifeline
Just in the nick of time

One
You're like a dream come true
Two
Just want to be with you
Three
Girl, it's plain to see
That you're the only one for me
And four
Repeat steps one through three
Five
Make you fall in love with me

If ever I believe my work is done
Then I'll start back at one

As the song faded away Stephanie tried to step back, but Richie held her fast against him, his lips a breath from hers.  “You can’t go anywhere yet.”

She tried to even out her breathing.  She was on edge, hanging on to her sanity by a fingertip.  She took a deep breath and raised her eyes to his, his face looked as flushed as hers felt.  She inched her hips back and felt his cock twitch.  “Take a deep breath Rich.” 

He did and his grip on her relaxed.  Minutely.

“Think cold thoughts.”  She smirked and pressed her lips to his.

“I’ll get you for this, later” he warned with an evil glint in his eye.

Stephanie opened her mouth to respond and was cut off.

“Mama, Daddy!”  Lilly ran toward them.  “Cake!!”

Stephanie felt Richie relax against her and she nearly laughed.  “All better now?”  Nothing like the happy shout of a three-year old to ease the tension.

Richie’s hand drifted from the small of her back down to her bottom, giving her a sharp pinch.

“Hey!”  She rubbed out the sting.

“Later Sweetheart” he warned again before releasing Stephanie and turning her to put her back to his front.

Not quite ready to let him have the last word, she crouched down in front of him, letting her body glide against him until she was eye-to-eye with her daughter.  She didn’t miss his quite groan or his mumbled “evil woman.”

Stephanie just smiled and took stock of their daughter.  Her dress was still amazingly clean, her flower and ribbon crown was missing though and she had a chocolate milk moustache.  “Are you ready for cake baby doll?” 

She nodded her head, making her dark curls bounce around her head.  “Yes!”

Stephanie stood, scooping Lily up with her, “all right baby doll, let’s go see what we’ve got over here.”

Lily looked over her mother’s shoulder at Richie, “come on daddy, cake!”

Richie took a deep breath and tugged down his suit jacket, hoping no one would notice the wood he was still sporting, and followed his girls across the patio.