Chapter 47 - Not running Anymore

Mara, listened to the very end, then she spoke, not to me but to the Detective.
"So, let me check I have this right, Dorothea stabs Jon, so to get let off she concocts this story about him raping her, when in actual fact she rapes him?, Detective; I hold my hands up to not being a cop but does this not alert you to her unstable state of mind?, why even if it is a counter allegation, do you want to call and put Jon, no wait a second , us through all this pain?, Between Dorothea and her mother she burned my house down and nearly killed me. Can I suggest you concentrate on the Arson and attempted murder and stop wasting our time with pathetic counter allegations."  moving to the door, she opened it for the Detective and his colleague to leave.

Detective Ross remained where he was; "Miss Goodward, I am an officer of the law, it matters not how lame you feel the allegations are, inline with Ms Hurleys human rights; I have to investigate. I am sorry for the stress, to you and Mr Bongiovi,  but you must understand I am just doing my job. The case involving Ms Hurley and her Mother is very complex. For us to receive Justice for all parties we have to go through the protocol to reach the other side." then turning to me he added; Mr Bongiovi, thank you for your time and explanation. I will investigate and check with the hospital against the times Ms Hurley has given, and I hope I will not be bothering you again." prompting his assistant, he walked to the door, " We will take our leave, no need to show us the door;  we can find our own way out; thank you for your time." with a nodded acknowledgement to us both he with his assistant left the office; leaving the huge Elephant standing between Mara and me.

I still hung my head in shame, the old Jon of years ago was creeping back into my bones. I felt a total failure. True to me I was hanging on by a thread to the only women I have ever loved with all my heart. I could not think straight on what to do or say next. Mara was quiet and sat on the arm of the arm chair thinking through the events the detective brought to the floor. She sat silent for what seemed like hours but in reality it was only minutes. Lifting her head she spoke, 

"Jon, are you ok?" She forced me to look at her, not allowing me to hang my head, as i looked across to her, she looked beaten and drawn too. I shook my head.
"no, not really. I am so sorry to put you through all of this"
"All of what?"
"Dorothea, me, I-I-I..." the words would not come, but the tears flowed and again I had my head in my hands. As soon as I broke for the second time Mara walked over to me and pulled me to her, she held me tight, and reassured me she believed me and that Dorothea would not get away with what she was doing. I did not know what I did to deserve Mara, but despite what she had heard there was no doubt in her mind I was totally innocent. What really upset her was that i did not share what I had suffered that night at the hands of my ex wife. Once I had fully explained my reasons she softened towards me, i felt more relaxed her knowing too, there was never going to be another situation like this again, or where it could have just been mentioned by accident, I guess in someways the Detective had done us a favor. 

"So, you still on for the day with Rich and the kids?, hes waiting in the nook? Everything is ready."

If i was honest, going off to have a fun time was the farthest thing I wanted to be doing right now ; but I could not give up on my new life and kids, hell they needed me more now than ever, standing straight  i moved across to Mara and gave her a kiss, 

" Well Bongiovi whats it to be?" 

"Yeah, lets go!!"

" and Dorothea?"

" ill sort it, your right, we'll prove her a liar"

"Good, so you ready?"

I nodded and with our arms wrapped around each other we left the office and went to find Richie and the kids and go enjoy our day. 

Chapter 46 - The Fighter

As I sat with my head in my hands, tormented by Dorothea's accusations, we were interrupted by a knock on the office door.
"Yeah come"
the door opened and Mara stuck her head round the corner,
"Richie's here....." She looked across at me and immediately saw how distressed I was.
" Oh My god, Jon; what's wrong?"
concern was etched on her face, as she stepped inside the office and closed the door, behind her.
"What's going on, why are you so pale?.... why have you been crying?..."
She looked at me and then the Detective.
I answered.... "Dorothea has accused me of rape, I didn't do it though I swear"
"What? how? when?"
"The night I stayed over to see the kids,  but ..... I paused, I needed Mara to know what Dot had done to me. I wished to god she never had to find out; but I couldnt lie. If she found out from somone else, well it would kill her. I continued, "

 there's more too it than just that"
Mara perched on the chair by the door, she still eyed the Detective, then focused her attention to me.
"I'm listening.."
every time she looked at the Detective her eye's had a steely cold look of determination, I had puposely not told Mara about what Dorethea had done to me, as I wanted in many ways to block it out, I could then pretend it never happened, pretend it was just a dream; i mean how lame does it sound that I was man raped? Plus with the arson attacks it would have been wrong to share that information too, honestly; Until it happened to me I never thought that it was possible or real.... but it was; and now I was having to share this intimate detail with Mara; something I was being forced to do, something I was really uncomfortable with. More thoughts flew round my mind; i was torn mentally and physically,  I mean; would she believe me, or would she think I had cheated on her with my ex wife. After all I had cheated in the past, why would she believe what I was about to tell her...... Still I had no choice, the elephant was in the room and not going any where; with Dot's accusations now laid bare, it was time. swallowing really hard, and holding onto the desk until my knuckles went white,  and taking a deep breath I began.... 

"Thing is, the night I stayed over, I had not slept for over seventy two hours as I had been by your side in hospital, we had all eaten dinner together and then gone into the mini theatre to watch a movie, I crashed before the movie started and Jake and Dot carried me to bed, or so I was told.... then Jake went downstairs to join the others to watch the movie and left Dot with me, she undressed me to my shorts."
"She stripped you near naked?"
"I guess, I don't know babe, I was out cold, my body was exhausted.." sweat started to bead on my brow, my throat was dry, and my heart was beating so hard it felt like it would burst out of my chest; but I forced myself to continue.
" well, the off shot is because she was missing for ages, Jessie went looking for her,  he called out but she never answered, so he climbed the stairs and headed to the guest room where I was, just as he was about to enter; through the crack in the door he saw Dot with her hands in my shorts.........I had no idea, and Jessie told me the following morning.... he was traumatised" the whole time I was explaining I looked at the floor, ashamed at what I was having to explain to my fiancée. after I had finished  I just stood with head down, racked with guilt and shame....

Chapter 45 - Moving On... or Can we...

After the party everything kind of returned to normal, Mara, bit the bullet and moved in with me full time, Her burns were healing fast, and we were now just waiting on the last appointment for her final skin graft before being fully discharged, me, well, my shoulder had all but healed too, although if I lifted my arm to quick I felt the nip and pinch where the scar was.

It was a reminder to take things slow, something over the last few months I had started to enjoy.

I had begun writing songs again, on my own and with Richie, add into the mix the guys, and you had the re start of a new refreshed older more mature Bon Jovi.
Time was new, and we were taking things steady, we had talked and were working on the album and the possibility of a new tour and prelaunch next year, but not until we were all happy.
The guys had families too now; and being older we all loved spending time with them.


Something we really struggled with at the height of our fame. Getting older meant we were wiser, and definitely much happier, yeah, the kids were happy and everything seemed to be going well, then just as It was getting comfortable and relaxed; something was heading in like a tornado and things were about to change.....

I was in the kitchen preparing the food hamper with Mara when the doorbell chimed; breaking into the tranquillity of our family normality. 

I thought it was my band brother Richie with his daughter Ava, as they were joining us for the day; we had all planned a trip on the boat, now named Secret Dreams by the kids and Mara, we were off to have a picnic and play water games, so on the way to answer the door, I was thrown to find Detective Ross, on the other side.

I'm gonna be honest now, whenever I saw this man my throat tightened and I felt uneasy. The last time I had seen him it was under bad circumstances and I had a feeling this time was not going to go any better.

Trying to hide my shock and discomfort I spoke,

"detective, what bring's you to my neck of the woods on a Sunday Morning?"
"Good Morning Mr Bongiovi, I am sorry to bother you, but  may I come in?"
"What's it about?"
"Questions sir, please, I would rather talk inside and not on the doorstep"
I sighed but held the door open wider to allow him to enter, he walked past me with his assistant into the lobby.  Closing the door I turned to face them.
"What are your questions Detective?"
"they are regarding your ex wife."
"What now?, Detective I have told you everything there is to know regarding Dorothea, what more can I tell you."
"It's not what you can tell me sir, Ms Hurley has made a counter allegation against you."
"A what?"
"Counter allegation"
"What the fuck is a counter allegation?"
"Could we go some where private to discuss this, it is delicate, I am sure you would prefer this to be kept between us and not the whole house." He stood looking at me, waiting for me to speak.
"Can't this wait? I have plans with my family, can I come to the station tomorrow?"
"No, sir sorry I need to ask these questions now. the sooner we get started the sooner I will be gone"

I knew I had no choice, I called out to Mara, she came out from the kitchen, as she walked into the lobby she saw the Detective but never flinched. I am sure she was a stunned as I was to see him there but she never showed it. Casually she spoke,

"Oh, sorry I did not know you were here Detective Ross, I gather this is not a social call?,"
"M'am, no its duty I'm afraid."
" can I get you anything to drink? some breakfast? or juice maybe?"
"no nothing for us thank you, we are fine, I am here as I have some questions for Mr Bongiovi."
Mara walked over to me and stood at my side, she slid her hand around my back and rested it just above my jeans waistline. looking directly at the detective she asked,
"So what is this about then? Dorothea?"
the detective nodded and spoke,
"Yes M'am it is."
"So what is it?"
I spoke, "Dorothea has made an allegation about me."
"For what?"
"I don't know the detective was just about to explain. Right Detective."
"Yes, can we go somewhere private?"
I drew a breath and answered,
"Sure, this way,"

I walked  out of the lobby along the hallway to the office,  the cops followed behind me; with Mara tailing the rear. 
opening the door to my office, we all walked inside. Mara was last but instead of coming in she made her excuses to go be with the kids and wait for Richie, but not before she said to call her if I needed her. leaving me with the Detective; she closed the door. Hearing her foot steps walking away,  I moved round to the side of the desk and sat on the edge, and the detective and his assistant took the easy chairs facing front.

I was really feeling uneasy and a knot was in my stomach, I just wanted this over, Dot had spent so much energy trying to break me, and failed, now she was starting again, I was tired of it all what was it now...  one things for sure, I was going to find out...

Clearing my throat I asked,
"So, what are these allegations then Detective.?"
"Dorothea has said that when you said she man raped you, it was in fact the other way round and you had raped her earlier that day, she claims that what she did to you, with the knife attack was in revenge for the hate she carries and the hurt you have caused her, she also claims your marriage was one full of infidelity and lust, and that you regularly hit her."
"Seriously Detective, that is bullshit, you know it is?"
"Mr Bongiovi, I have to ask the questions when a counter claim has been made, I am sorry."
I stood and started to pace, running my fingers through my hair, I was taking in the ludicrous accusations that Dot had made against me.

"Detective, look, my ex wife and I when we were together I made mistakes. I was an up and coming rock star with women throwing themselves at my feet, there was only so many times, as a man, I could refuse. I hold my hand up to the fact I had a few indiscretions throughout my marriage, hell its public knowledge; but for Christ's sake, I have never laid a finger on Dot in my life ever, period; and I sure the hell have never raped her?. ask anyone, ask my kids, Jesus the night she is saying I raped her I had not slept for 72 hours, I had been at the hospital with Mara. Check the hospital records, I only agreed to stay at her house the night she raped me so I could spend time with my kids, maybe you have forgotten Detective, but Jessie my eldest boy gave you his statement, remember"
"Your ex wife claims, she and her son did not get on well and you paid him to lie for you."
"What??"
"Mr Bongiovi was here anyone else that could prove attest to your ex wife man raping you, other than your eldest son?"
"No, Detective, there is no-ne else."
My head was spinning, I felt sick to my stomach, I could feel my will crumbling and leaving my body. how the hell could I prove I was innocent. What if Mara believed it...... sitting down onto the chair with my head in my hands I began to cry. Dorothea had won, I was broke.

Chapter 44 - And the answer is.....



Mara's Ring
 

My heart was pounding so hard in my chest as I waited for Mara to answer me I thought it would leap out of my body, her eye's looked down at me, melting my heart even more to a complete liquid mass..... I was sure, if she kept me waiting much longer it would spill out onto the floor for everyone to see.
Taking the Microphone from my hand she lifted it to her lips, still holding eye contact with me, she said.... "Yes,"

The whole room erupted with sounds of clapping and cheering, getting up off my knees we embraced each other, and kissed, then I gently slipped the ring, my late Great Grandmothers ring, newly restored onto her finger. She looked down at the ring and then at me,
"Oh Jon, its the most perfect ring I have ever seen. its beautiful, just what I would have chosen if I had a choice" kissing me again, she stood admiring her ring. 
"It was my Great Grandmothers, it is a Bongiovi antique. I know your liked antique rings and when I mentioned it to my mom, it just seemed perfect, it brings real meaning and love into our celebration."
Her eye's were so soft as she listened, then she spoke,
"It does, it means that you all trust me and love me enough to give me one of your relatives precious memories, and I want you to know that I will treasure it forever, with a proviso should anything ever happen to me, or god forbid us I will return it to you. Deal? "
"Deal.."
Helping Mara off the stage, I waved at the guys to join me, they took there places and as I kissed the back of Mara's hand I climbed back on stage to sing, the music started and I sang,

Maybe it's intuition
But some things you just don't question
Like in your eyes
I see my future in an instant
and there it goes
I think I've found my best friend
I know that it might sound more than
a little crazy but I believe

I knew I loved you before I met you
I think I dreamed you into life
I knew I loved you before I met you
I have been waiting all my life

There's just no rhyme or reason
only this sense of completion
and in your eyes
I see the missing pieces
I'm searching for
I think I found my way home
I know that it might sound more than
a little crazy but I believe

A thousand angels dance around you
I am complete now that I found you.......

 

http://youtu.be/jjnmICxvoVY

Chapter 43 - She took my breath away!











Jon







Mara

As mom and I got to the bottom of the stairs, my mom removed her arm, placed a kiss on my cheek and went off to check that everything was as she wanted it to be.

I walked over to Richie and the guys, after thanking them for coming I showed them where we would set up, I explained my plans and they were all good with it.

"you nervous?"
"Hell yeah..."
"mm thought so...."
"you know me to well Rich"
"Yeah, I do like a brother, I know tonight really aint the time, but you know that detective that's investigating Dot and her mom?,"
"Yeah, what about it?"
"He came to see me."
"He did?, what's he want?"
"To know about your relationship with Dot, why you split and stuff,... man I gotta tell ya, I was not comfortable answering those kind of questions."
"What questions?"
"he wanted to know how many times you had cheated on Dot, if I had ever seen you hit her?, don't worry, I told the truth, but I think you need to contact him Jon, seems like he is digging deep for something."
"yeah, thanks, I will.. strange... I'm guessing Dot has given him some bull shit story and he has to follow up on it, thanks for telling me anyway, Ill talk to him tomorrow "

I thought over what Richie had told me and I was concerned, why was Detective Ross investigating me?, I shook my head, and pushed it to the back of my mind, tonight was not about Dot, her mom or the case, tonight was about Mara.
Richie touched my shoulder, making me jump.
"Relax bud you will be fine, we are right here to support ya."

I smiled at my band brother, just as my attention was caught and I looked to the stairs, to see Jessie and Jake coming down, dressed in their evening suits they looked great. making my excuses I left the guys and headed over to my son's.  Jesse spoke first,
"Hey pop, will we do?"
"Do?, with you too dressed like that I Gotta be careful you don't steal Mara away from me..."
"Where's grandma?"
"out back in the marquee bossing... again I guess... hey you guys want a glass of champagne?"
Jesse and Jake nodded, I summoned the Matre'd over and took two glasses and handed them to Jessie and Jake.
Jake took a mouthful and spat it out....
"Yuk, that's grosse, can I have coke instead?"
I laughed, sure go find Mandy in the kitchen and she will sort you out Jake, and stay clean ok, no running round in the yard."
As he went off to the kitchen he either didn't hear me or chose to ignore me. I stood with Jesse while he sipped his champagne.
"Mmmmm you know I could get used to this..."
I laughed, "Well don't, one glass and the toast ok?"
he nodded,
"You know pop; none of us have had a great life so far, and well... I just want you to know that I am; no we are all real happy you have found Mara and we know that you will be really happy together. I guess what I am saying is, we love her too and if you want it, we give our blessing to you marrying Mara."
A lump formed in my throat, my teenage son had grown into a man right before my eye's. "Thanks Jesse, that means the world to me."
he smiled at me, I stood looking at my son and I knew that my relationship with Jesse was one based on trust and love, he respected me, and I respected my son; a far cry away from my own father.

lost in my own world I was brought back to earth as Richie came over,
"Jon, Mara and Stephanie are here." he pointed over towards the entrance as Mara walked in;
I found myself catching my breath as she took it so quickly from my lungs.
she wore the evening gown I had chosen for her and it fitted like a glove, her hair was hung in a side pony tail with a jewelled encrusted head band around the tail, the jewels on her gown shone and sparkled and fitted round her waist perfectly showing off her trim svelte figure, her make up was flawless kept fresh and simple highlighting her total beauty that shone from within. Jake was tugging my jacket which broke my attention,
"Dad,"
"Yes lil man."
"The necklace, can we give it to her now?"
"Five minutes ok, I'll wave you over" he nodded he understood. I walked across to my finance.  Watching her as I walked, I could see her eye's were alive and shone and sparkled, all the drama and upset and distress of the last few months totally forgotten, her face was totally happy and relaxed.  reaching her side; I lent in and gently kissed her lips, and whispered  "You look stunning and beautiful, I hope you know how much I love you" as I stood back my eye's continuing to feast on the vision standing before me, as she replied,
"well you don't brush up bad yourself; and for the record, I love you too" I was totally mesmerized by Mara, for the second time tonight a tugging on my jacket got my attention, looking down to an impatient Jake scowling at me, " Now?"  I laughed, "Yes ok now."
Clearing his throat, he looked up at Mara with the biggest grin on his face, then without any prompting from me  he held out the velvet box containing the pear drop diamond necklace that I had bought as a gift for her to wear with her gown, 
"This is for you, from Dad, Jesse and Stephanie and most importantly me. Welcome to the family, Mara, we love you."
Looking down, her eye's melted and filled with tears as she took the box and opened it. she bent down and gently kissed Jake who blushed from his head to his toes, but had a grin the size of Wyoming on his face.
"Thank you Jakey, I love my gift and I love all of you too, and most importantly... she lent further in to his ear, and continued, but I love you the most." his grin spread even wider and he got redder, but he refused to leave until he had completed his task and had helped put the necklace on.

I lifted him up so he could secure the clasp around Mara's neck, all done and putting him down standing tall; he told her how amazing she looked, then went off to get himself another coke and something to eat. That left me standing with Mara, she looked at me and mouthed silently" Thank you, I really love you."

Taking her hand I lead her over to meet the family and the guests that had arrived for the party, and I introduced her to the rest of the guys in the band, they were all getting on and having a great chat, the guy's had set everything up earlier, and were just waiting for my lead. Now it was time; making my excuses I left the guys and went to search out my mom, I found her laying into my pop again, taking her elbow I managed to calm things down and let her know that I wanted to make a start.
"so, I will go and make our family announcement, then you can come over and make the acceptance speech and then the proposal."
"Yeah, so you good?"
"Yeah I'm good, ... and Jon.... "
"Yeah"
"I'm so proud of you..... and I am really happy for both of you, I love you both... with all my heart..."
"I love you too mom..." I hugged my mom, as she finally broke free and headed to the stage to make the announcement. I returned to Mara's side and taking her hand I made sure we were at the front of the stage for my mom.
Picking up the microphone, and tapping it to ensure it was on, causing it to squeal, proof it was working my mom began....
"Ladies and Gentlemen, can I have your attention please....."
Silence fell on the room as the guests listened to my mom...

"thank you for coming tonight and at short notice; as you may be aware my eldest son Jon, yes the gorgeous blonde one that takes after his mom; she paused hearing dimmed laughter through the marquee, then continued " has finally met the women of his dreams and has asked her to marry him, thankfully this young women has been brave enough to take him and the rest of Bongiovi brood on and I just want to say, Mara, welcome to the family and congratulations babies, ladies and gentlemen please now raise your glasses to Jon & Mara."
 Their were echo's and applause as everyone repeated "To Jon and Mara" I watched Mara the whole time and she was glowing, now with my hand in hers I lead her to the stage, the guests watched and a few whistles were heard followed by, "don't do it hon, have me."

Mara eye's were totally focused on me, taking the microphone in my hand I walked us into the middle of the stage then turning to face Mara, I dropped to one knee,

"Mara Goodward," she looked down and I saw her face was slightly blushed...
"the start of this year I was on a self destruct road to hell, I had no reason to live and was wallowing in self pity, then a light emerged at the end of a very black tunnel, and standing in that light was you. as the months have gone on the light has gotten brighter and my love for you has gotten stronger, you rescued me from my self loathing, and have taught me about trust and real love, you and you alone, have brought meaning back into my life, and I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart. Mara, to make my life perfect and complete, together with my children I ask, will you do me the honour of agreeing and accepting my proposal to be my wife and marry me?" reaching inside my pocket I produced the ring and in traditional style held open the ring box whilst waiting for an answer......

Chapter 42 - Tonight is the Night!

Tonight is the Night!

It took us next to know time to arrive at my mom's, tony and I talked on the way about him becoming a dad. It was very clear that he wanted that more than anything, Jenna was scared. Having giving my bro some tips on what to do, I was sure they would work it out, one way or another.

Pulling up on the drive my mom had gone over board, one things for sure she never misses a chance to celebrate with style. The driveway was lined with lights hanging from the tree's, and  huge arch was formed at the front door with a banner that had Jon & Mara across the top. A little too much fuss and cheese for me, but I decided to just go with it.
Tony looked at me "See what I mean?"
I smiled at him and nodded. We walked through in to the lobby; there were matre'd's, standing waiting to hand out the champagne and strawberries to everyone as they arrived.  after refusing myself, Tony took too glasses and disappeared. looking around the chaos I could hear my mom shouting instructions to someone in the near distance. Then as if by magic she was at my side.
"Sweetheart, your here, good, now the fifth bedroom upstairs is for the boys and you can use the annex to change,"
"hi mom, nice to see you too..."
"Oh, hi, sorry sweetheart; I'm a little busy right now, do you need anything? cause I need to go check on the marquee at the back its wonderful, go drop your bags off and come check it out..."
with that she took off to carry on what she was doing... and knowing my mom as well as I did, that meant bossing everyone around.
Jessie, Jake and me made our way to our rooms and dropped off our bags, Jessie and Jake decided they wanted out until they were needed and grabbed the remote and sat down to watch MTV in their room; I had no such luck and taking a deep breath I headed back downstairs to the tide of activity and out the back to check out my moms handiwork.
As I walked in my mom was shouting again, "No, no, no, just follow the table plan, I want happy people here tonight, I want them to mingle, not tangle... can you follow those instructions?, can you read?"
Touching her shoulder I made her jump, "Take it easy Ma,"
"Ooh Jon, that's not funny....do you want me to have a heart attack, making me jump like that...." catching her breath she continued," What do you mean, take it easy?, I am taking it easy, but there is still so much to do....where is that man, that you call a father, I have not seen him for ages... he was suppose to be...."
"Chilling?"
"What?"
"Chilling"
"What? eh? Why did you say that?"
"mom, relax a little, eh, it's just a party, and before you snap at me, it all looks great and I love what you have done, but Mara and I don't care about the dressings and stuff, as long as our family are here and have a good time and are happy for us, well that's alright by me.... now why don't you let the caterers do there job and go and start getting ready, I'll go find Dad... "
"but... I "
"No but's go...."
I pushed my mom gently in the direction of the stairs and watched as she went off to her room to be pampered.

The hard work she had done was amazing, really a mom at her best.....walking round the house she had thought of everything.  walking through to the garden I saw my dad, sat on the bench smoking by the Cherry tree."
"Pop."
"Jon"
"Can you believe this shit?, your mom is unbelievable, if this is for your engagement, god help you when its your wedding... its been like this for days, thank god I have my own place to escape. Matt and Tony are at breaking point too. She never knows when to stop. Tony wants to talk with me, but every time he tries your mom appears out of no where and gets him doing other stuff.... I just had to escape her before I did something I would regret."
A few words of talk and already my pop was grating on my nerve " Yeah and your so fucking perfect right?, sure mom is intense, but fuck, you were married to her so should know better than any of us......" trying to calm down I took a breath and carried on, " She is just happy for Mara and me and wants us to see how much she loves us and wants us to have a good time, so let me tell ya, you better not spoil it ok?"  I looked at a blank uncaring face, one that said he was not taking advice from his son, true to pop, he changed the subject.
"So, whats with Tony, Has he spoke to you?"
"Yeah, he has, but its not for me to say, finish your smoke and go find him, move your ass and find out for yourself"
"right like that is it now; no respect for your ol man,"
"what do you want me to say? eh?, Please pop and all that shit?,  I can't lie, to you or me, and pretend we have a great father son relationship when we don't. You saw to that"
"I brought you up to know respect."
"No, you beat me up to show you respect, that aint the same thing... and you know what, I don't wanna get into it right now, lets leave this for another time ok?." I turned my back and started to walk away, I always got a knot in my stomach when my pop started in on me, I was not gonna let him spoil Mara's and my night.
 "ok, ok, steady, eh, you and I, we have a lot of bridges to build don't we?,"
"Bridges, are you kidding me?"
"Yeah, I'm holding out a branch here?"
"I don't want ya branch, now or ever.... what you did to me, Tony and Matt,.... well it's unforgiveable...... they may forgive you pop, I can't...."
"Look alls I want to say is, I know you don't think it, but you are my first born son and no matter, I love you Jon......... " He waited for  my reaction that never came, then he continued...." you know I never liked dot, but I have met Mara and she seems like a great girl, and... well... I like her... I'm happy for you son.. really happy" I felt numb inside and went through the motions of being polite so just said,
"Thanks"
being honest, I really did not care if my pop was happy for me or not, he had been anything but a father too me, inside I had no real love or feelings for the man at all. He had a cruel streak that no one should see, but that was the past, I had to tolerate him for one night, taking a real deep breath I psyched myself up to do just that, this night was about Mara and me; not John Bongiovi snr.

Walking back through to the main house, I checked the time, 6.30pm, time for me to go and get ready.
The evening had to be perfect, as I headed to the stairs the doorbell rang, the staff answered and in walked my band mates, Tico, Dave and Richie., Seeing me on the stairs they raised there hands in salute to me. I was shocked that Richie had managed to get the guys to agree to perform for me, the plan was for me to sing to Mara after the proposal, I know I could have used the house band my mom had booked but I wanted to do it right and with my band to back me, I knew it would be.
"Yo, Richie, have some drinks, and find a seat I'll be right with ya" Richie nodded and the guys followed suite and took the Champagne being offered, while I went on up to my room to get ready.

Standing in the room I checked out my reflection in the mirror, I looked ok. checking my pocket for the ring, I was set and headed for the door.

Walking down the hallway I knocked on the boys room and told them it was time to get ready. Jesse said ok, closing the door I walked to the stairs just as my mom came out from her room, she look amazing wearing a lilac dress, her hair pimped to perfection, with a corsage, shoes and bag to match, her makeup was flawless and she was beaming....
"Ooh another scare, twice in one day, Jon Francis...."
smiling, I bent down and kissed her on the cheek, "Sorry mom, and you look beautiful."
"Do I?"
I nodded my head in approval, offering her my arm I said
"Shall we?"
she smiled at me, and took my arm as I escorted her down the stairs. Neither of us noticed the gathering guests in the lobby and were both stunned as they gave us a round of applause. My mom loved it, she was glowing and I knew this really was as much about it being her night as it was for us.

Chapter 41 - Getting Nearer To The Party





Mara



Jon



Mara's Ring
 

 

Jon relaxing...

 

 

Mara got up and went to shower first, we had spent most of the afternoon in bed together, but with the party now only a couple of hours away it was time to get things moving. The hair and make-up team would be here in fifteen minutes for the girls, walking back from the bathroom after taking Mara her body douche, as I sat on the bed, there was a knock on our bedroom door.
"Dad, you in there?"
I opened the door to find my very excitable daughter with a list on a clip board and a pen, pushing past me she headed straight into the room.
"Hey dad, right,... oh where's Mara,?"
"in the shower, do come in..."
"Sorry, look, I have been thinking and this is what I'd like to do. I want tonight to be really special so I have arranged with grandma that you and the boys will get ready at hers, that means Mara and I can get ready but you won't see Mara until the party, I want it to be a surprise. You have chose the dress and stuff now leave it to me and the professionals to do our job" pausing for a second she continued... "If that's ok?"
I smiled at my daughter, "Of Course it's ok, but I need to get my stuff together before you kick my ass outta here ok ma lady?"
"Sure pop, I'll go tell the boys, ... oh and dad, the car will be here in thirty minutes to get you..."
"Car? what car?..."
"Grandma organised it, you and the boys are being picked up, by Uncle Matty or Uncle Tony, I can't remember which..." waving her hand in a flippant manner she shot off in search of Jesse and Jake.
 Closing the bedroom door, I walked across to the suit bag hanging on the closet door, my evening suit and shoes were there ready for tonight, sliding my hand into the suit pocket I checked on Mara's ring, taking it out I looked at it again it shone and sparkled in the light from the window, A smile spread across my lips as I played out in my mind how I was going to propose tonight and give Mara the ring. closing the lid I returned it to my suit pocket and re zipped the bag, content in my mind how it would go,  just as Mara came into the bedroom wrapped in a towel and looking delicious...
"Hey gorgeous are you ready for round five....?" walking over to her I slid my arms around her and kissed the tip of her nose..
"I don't think you have the energy Giovi, I do... but I think I'll give you a break... don't want you collapsing on me tonight do I?"
"Sometimes Mara Goodward I think you need a spanking..."
"Mmm as I say, you need your energy," Laughing she walked over to the closet and grabbed her robe, then went in search of Steph for a little girl talk, all alone I entered the bathroom and took a shower. 

All fresh and clean I dressed in jeans and t shirt and was finalising my speech and proposal for tonight when Steph came and knocked on the door again, "Dad, can I come in?"
"Sure,"
a head appeared round the door, "Erm just thought would let you know, Mara is in my room and the makeup team and stylists are here, and dad, Uncle Tony is on the way to get you and the boys."
"Ok, thanks sweetheart."
Steph smiled as she closed the door and went back to her organising.
Leaving our room I headed down the hallway to Stephs room and gently knocked on the door,
"Babe?"
The door opened. "Listen babe its nearly time for me to go, so I just want to say goodbye for a couple of hours, but know that I love you and can't wait to see you again tonight, I really am a very lucky man, thank you..."
Looking into my eye's she slid her arms wrapped around my neck and lent in for a kiss goodbye, parting from our kiss, I paused for a moment before I reluctantly let go of her; dropping her hand I walked over to the door, I turned to look back before blowing her a kiss and closing the door and heading back to my room to collect my suit.  Suit collected and back out of the room and on the landing, I looked over the stairway into the downstairs reception area and could see a hive of activity, Jesse had been given a haircut, and Jake was sliding up and down the stair bannister, Steph was in and out checking things off on her clip board.

I started down the stairs just as the doorbell rang, I shouted out; "I'll get it" as I approached the door I could hear my brother on the other side,
"jeez hurry up its freezing already..."  I opened the door  and Tony burst through, wrapped like it was winter in Siberia.
"Yo, what's with the clothes?, it's not that cold?"
"Oh right smart ass you think, its three below out there, but hey when your loved up I guess you forget mundane things like the weather eh?"
"nice to see you too bro."

Tony moved through the lobby and headed straight to the kitchen and mumbled under his breath "Whatever" something was not right, normally out of the three of us, he was the calm unflustered one, what was eating him, I followed him into the kitchen.
"So come on give, what's up?"
"Oh nothing, I'm sorry man, but.... well... it's mom, for days all we have had is Jon this, Mara that, don't sit here, don't use that, man it's like the house aint a home anymore... and well, I guess I am just sore and a little pissed at it all, when Jenna and I got together there was nothing.... she barely glanced at us, no congratulations no nothing..."
"Tony, you know Mom, she either gets over excited to this state or its nothing, she don't mean anything, wait until you tell her your getting married she will flip just like she has with us..."
"I know your right, but its more than that."
"Yeah?"
"Look if I tell you, don't tell anyone ok, I mean not a soul."
I gestured with a cross over my heart, " Ok I swear, give"
"Jenna, she's pregnant...I'm gonna be a dad"
"Congratulations, so what's with the secret?, this is great news you should tell mom... shed be stoked"
"No, Jon, thing is Jenna does not want the baby, she wasn't  a termination."
"Oh bro I'm sorry, have you talked through your feelings about it?"
"Yeah I've tried, she won't listen... she don't know if I am the one, I mean two fucking years and I aint the one?"
" how long have you both known?"
"week or more, not long."
"ok, this is all new to Jenna, her body is gonna go through some serious shit, man, I know your pissed right now, but give her space and time, trust me, it will all work out and before long we will  be having another celebration... ok? trust me I'm your big brother"
I slapped him on the back and walked over to the bourbon that was sitting on the counter, grabbing a shot glass I turned to him and asked,
"so what time are we to be at ma's, what are her orders..."
"my orders were to call and collect you and the kids and hurry back..."
"Look we have a few minutes right?," Tony nodded, "Right here drink this?" I poured him a shot of bourbon, and handed it to him.
"I can't man, I'm driving..."
"Its a small one, c'mon, I'll drive there,  no one will no, go on, it will take the edge off, lessen the stress of the day, besides you look like you need it."
he took the scotch and poured it down his throat. handing me the shot glass he thanked me.
"no worries bro, you good now?"
a smiled broke his tight lips as he nodded and grabbed me for a hug. "Right lets get this posse on the road."
"yeah, Jesse, Jake?"
"yeah pop right here,"
"you guys got everything?"
"Yeah, think so..."
"Go check please,"
"Ok"
The kids went off to double check on their bags for tonight and the weekend, just as Steph was heading upstairs to Mara with the stylists and makeup artists.
As she turned to look at me, I waved up to her, "See you later ok?"
"Ok dad, now go already" with a final goodbye and the boys in check we headed out to Tony's car and set off to my Mom's ready for the party.

Chapter 40 Build Up To The Party



After the photo shoot, first with one member of the family, then the other, with everything cleared away, I practically pushed my mom and the family outta the door. Mom was reluctant to go and wanted to know what the hurry was,

"Mom, seriously? c'mon, I have played my part now scoot and give me some time alone with the kids and Mara, we will see you tonight... "
planting a kiss on my cheek, she smiled up at me as she left.  "See you all tonight baby.."
Closing the door behind her, I walked back through the lobby into the breakfast nook. Mara and steph were in there talking.
"Steph, can I ask you something?"
"Sure"
"How are you with my marrying your dad?"
"I'm fine, why you ask?, I thought we had shown you how happy we all are?"
"Yeah you have, but I wanted to be sure... it can't be easy with everything that's happened with your mom and stuff..."
"Mom lost it along time ago, way before you and dad."
There's just one thing more thing I wanna ask you, then I promise that you can go and find the boys,"
"Sure, shoot"
"Steph, I've never had any brothers or sisters, and no children of my own, well not yet anyway, but I am so honoured to have met you, I cant thank you enough for accepting me into your family, which kinda brings me full circle; and,  so; I was wondering, no hoping that... you would do me the honour of being my maid of honour?"

A smile broke on Stephs face, she jumped from the seat at the island and grabbed Mara screaming "yes, yes,yes... I'd love too, thank you..."
she hugged her so tight I thought Mara would pass out from lack of air...Stephs eye's shone like diamonds, if you told her Brad Pitt had arrived to take her to prom she could not have been happier.

"Ladies, not interrupting am I?"
"Dad, Mara has just asked me to be her Maid of Honour...oh my god,"
"So I heard, I guess you are accepting then eh?" laughing I could not stop myself, it was so great having my family together under one roof. it all felt right, it all felt perfect I was really happy and I was not afraid to show it anymore and share it.
"der, what you think?"
Playfully she punched me as she took off crying out for Jesse and Jake.

Walking over to Mara her back to me I wrapped my arms around her waist and gently kissed her neck.

"Mmm what's that for Mr Bongiovi?"
"Do, I need an excuse to kiss you, and show you how much you mean to me?"
"no, of course not, just promise me you will never stop?"
"nuzzling her neck, between kisses I promised to love her forever and ever..

Spinning round to face me, she looked up into my eye's and before long we were kissing each other deeply and passionately, I needed Mara, I felt the build in my loins, the passion in her eye's was evident and I knew she was feeling the same too, breaking momentarily, and taking her hand, I pulled her gently from her seat and said
"C'mon let's take this upstairs...."
"but the kids... what if.... "

I heard screaming that was coming from outside, I looked out of the window and saw that the kids were all down by the boat house. I pointed
"look, and don't worry there's a lock on the bedroom door..."

She smiled at me as I took her hand and lead her upstairs and into our room. Locking the door behind me, I took Mara's hand and lead her to the bed, she sat down trembling...
"Are you ok?, your trembling? If you don't want to.... we..."
"Placing her fingers to my lips, she rose and stood in front of me,

"SSSH, jovi sometimes you need to shut the fuck up?"
with one action she pushed me back onto the bed and climbed along side and then swung her legs over me and sat astride me, leaning in she bent down and kissed me, long and deep, her hands wandering over my chest and crotch....undoing my clothing and gently nuzzling, and kissing my neck, then sitting back she lifted her top over her head, then leaning forward again carried on kissing me....

The passion was stirring in my loins with each kiss, I wanted her so bad, I wanted to bury myself deep inside her, but I was happy letting Mara take the lead, it was a side of her I was really enjoying....

With my head back resting on the pillow Mara continued to tease me, I could feel my body pulsing with urgency, my hands were pinned to my sides by her knees and I was not allowed to touch her and it was driving me mad with frustration and desire.  Every time I tried to move to touch her she would sit back and shake her head with a gleam in her eye and said... "ah eh, not yet, this is my playtime, be patient all in good time," by the time she had me stripped to all but my shorts the urge was evident, my body was screaming to her that I had to have her.

A chuckle escaped her lips but still she continued my torture. "Now promise me if I release your hands you wont touch.... promise me?..." my ache was so bad, my throat was dry, and my heart was racing at a million times a second, but I shook my head and promised. sliding off me, she placed her hands on my hips and played with the band around my shorts, she slowly pulled them down bit by bit, licking and nuzzling as she went, my body was trembling, it was blowing my mind; I was being taken to places I have never been too before, then without warning she pulled my shorts off and taking my hard cock in her hand she bent forward and devoured me in to her mouth, sucking and licking, the pressure was building so strong, I knew I promised but I could not hold back much longer, I begged her, my voice husky from desire, she pulled back and smiled, "No way Jovi, this is my time, I want to saver every bit of you, I want to taste you.... when I'm done it's your turn to play ok?" 
"But...." I protested
"no buts.... agreed?"
I nodded my head and laid my head back on the pillow as she continued her pleasurable torture on my body.. deeper and harder she sucked, licking and teasing, then faster and faster, then she slowed, ..... every time I was close to heaven she would slow down and prolong my release, with every part of my being I was on fire, she gently played with my balls, kneading them and pushing, then started the torture of sucking me deep again and again.....changing her rhythm she started the final assault on my frustrated body, nipping gently on the end of my happy tail, before licking and pushing her tongue further into every crevice, she took me deep and moved her mouth over me faster and faster, I was building to the biggest orgasm I had ever had.

Grabbing the bedding my head back, I screamed "fuck, I'm coming..." still she continued as my body finally gave its release and Mara what she wanted, thrust after thrust as every ounce of my being flowed through me and into Mara, still she gently licked and sucked.... my body heaved and thrusted until it had no more to give and I was totally spent.

Breathlessly, I opening my eye's to see Mara laying beside me, a smile across her face..... she leaned in and kissed me gently, then pulling back she thanked me for giving her what she had wanted.... smiling at the women I loved with every ounce of my being, I replied
"it was all my pleasure"
grinning wickedly she said,
"it was now get ready its time for round two"

Chapter 39 - Is there anybody out there looking for a party!!!

 

 

 

With the girls dresses chosen and the makeup and stylist booked to call and give the finishing touches, I had received a call from Garrard's to say the ring was ready. Making my excuses I left the girls upstairs talking. I had arranged with the Manager of the store to also set by a diamond encrusted necklace earrings and bracelet, another gift surprise for Mara.

The boys had their tux's and they were content either listening to music in there room, or were out back kicking a ball around.

 

 

 

Pulling up at the store, I parked and went inside. I was greeted by Maurice the store Manager.

"Mr Bongiovi, how very nice to see you, this way please sir I have your items for you."

Shaking his hand I followed him to the far end of the store and behind the velvet curtain to look at the ring and the set the manager had chosen to set aside for me.

 

He cleaned the glass top of the display case and then went to the safe and brought out the set and Mara's ring. The case holding the jewelled set was a black velvet box with Garrard's wrote on the opening lid. Placing the box in front of me he asked,

"Would you like me to show you sir?"

"Yes, please do."

He opened the box and there before me was a beautiful diamond encrusted necklace, that would fit as a choker style, dropping to a teardrop in a 2 carat diamond to the centre of the pendant, with bracelet and earrings to match. The dress I had chosen for Mara was a beautiful midnight blue silk gown with silver filigree jewel encrusted belt,The choice of jewlery was perfect.    

 

 

 

"Sir? is everything to your satisfaction?"

"Yes thank you Maurice, could I see the ring?"

"Of course, moving aside the pendant set he brought forward a blue velvet box again with the name Garrards on the front, on opening the box there was Mara's ring, brilliantly polished and clean and ready to be placed on Mara's hand tonight..

I nodded my head in acknowledgement and following Maurice I paid the bill and left the store.  Maurice had extended his congratulations, I guess he was hopeful of my returning when it was time to choose our wedding rings.
 

Climbing into my car I started the engine and began to drive. I had planned with the kids that I wanted them to be a bigger part of the engagement as possible, so Jake was going to walk up and open the ring box as I was proposing for the second time, this time on one knee, Steph had given her orders!!! oh she daughter that must be obeyed, so in swap I had asked her to present Mara with the pendant set to wear for the party; happily she agreed, and with Jesse to do the announcement to get everyone's attention, and get the ball rolling;  all that was left was for me to go collect my suit from the shop and head back home.

if I said I was not nervous, Id be lying, this was a private affair and although I am a perform artist, if its performing that's fine I am comfortable with that, but when it's my private life, well I like to keep it private. Steph and my ma argued that every women deserves to feel extra special when the guy of her dreams proposes to them, they ganged up on me and agreed asking her in the confides of a hospital room was not romantic, following with, they were surprised she said yes. So I have been bullied and coerced by my nearest and dearest to conform to what they want, but if it makes Mara realise just how special she is to me and how much I love her, then I'll go with it.

Parking outside the suit shop I ran inside and collected my suit, then jumped back in the car and set off home.
Back home opening the door I was greeted by my younger brother Matt.
"Yo, bro, so you have fially found the right one eh?, Congratulations bud."
"Cheers, what is going on?"
The house was a hive of activity, bodies here there and everywhere.
"Did ma and steph not tell you?"
"Tell me what?"
"the photo shoot?"
"What photo shoot? for fuck sake Matt what gives?"
"Ma said you knew?"
"well obviously I don't?"
"Ok, let me go find Ma, be right back."
With that Matt took off leaving me stood in the middle of the chaos going on around me. then out the corner of my eye I saw my ma walking towards me.
"Jon, baby, is that your suit?"
"Yeah, ma what's going on, Matty said something about a photo shoot?"
"Yes baby, now don't get upset, ok, but Ruth and I wanted to mark this special day by having a family photo shoot, we thought as my house was manic and being got ready for the party; we would come over here and use your's"
I looked at my mom and I could not stop the stink eye that followed.
"Jon Francis, stop looking at me like that, it won't work. How can you deny us our wish uh?"
"Wish, ma, you have taken over... its too much... does Mara know? or is she in the dark like me?"
"No she does not know, we wanted to surprise you both."
"Ma its not a surprise its a god damn shock and circus. I am really not happy about it."
"Oh you are mr spoil it all, how can you begrudge your mom and new mom a lil pic perfect for our family album."
As always my ma had got me wrapped around her little finger, reluctantly I gave in and headed through the team preparing the house for the shoot and upstairs to Mara who was with Steph being made over ready for the party.

Outside the door I knocked lightly," Mara?"
"Yeah come in, were decent." followed by giggles, Stephs voice was heard from the other side of the closed door.
Gently I pushed the door open and saw Mara sat at the dressing table, with a stylist behind styling her hair. She  stopped the stylist for a moment and turned to look at me;, with a beautiful smile on her face.
"Jon, you should not be here, I wanted to surprise you tonight, and by the way thank you for the gown its the most gorgeous dress I have ever seen, I really love it." her eyes held my gaze, as I dropped down to my knees, to explain and apologise for the situation with our moms and what we had got to go do for them.
She was totally un fazed and happily agreed to the photo shoot, and as I got to my feet to leave, Mara followed and walked me to the door; leaning in she whispered in my ear,
"just have fun this is our day everything will be fine, lets make our families as happy as we are inside," then planting a kiss on my cheek I  was pushed from the room and the door was closed.

Stunned I stood staring at the closed door, not sure what had actually happened, I was brought back to reality when Jake tapped my thigh.
"Hey, Buddy what's up?"
"nothing pop, just wondered what time I had to get ready for tonight?"
I looked at the time and after telling Jake he had hours he shot off outside to go kick his ball around with one of the kids from over the lake.
looking over the stair bannister I could see the photographer had about finished setting up his equipment and camera and I knew it was minutes before we were all called to have our picture taken.
Sure enough two minutes later my mom was calling me.
"Jon, Jon, oh there you are, get ready sweetheart the photographer is ready for us, hurry now and please bring Mara and Steph too, Jon stop just staring at me and move, c'mon."
shaking my head I went off to our bedroom and dropped my suit on the bed, then walking along the landing I knocked on the girls door and called them out for the photo shoot.
Almost immediately Mara and Steph opened the door, Steph shot passed me and down the stairs to her grandma, but Mara stood before me beaming the most radiant smile I had seen, her whole face was glowing. She wore a simple pair of jeans with a cream sweater but she looked like a model, she was stunning and I was so lucky to have this women in my life and agree to marry me. linking her arm in mine she asked,
"Shall we?"
I nodded kissed her cheek and we headed down the stairs together.

 

 



Chapter 38 - Ring Ring

 

The next morning after our first night back home, I was up at 6am, and rang my mom and arranged to go and collect the ring early so I could have it polished with Garrard jewlers before our engagement party. Steph was awake and sat with me at the breakfast nook.

 

 

"Dad, does Mara know you have a ring for her?"

"No, sweetheart she doesn't, I am going to surprise her tonight at Grandmas."

"That is sweet, Mara is lovely dad and I am so happy for you both; you deserve to be happy, and dad.... I love you thank you for coming and rescuing us from mom's"

"Thank you baby girl, and I love you, and I didn't rescue you Steph you guy's rescued me." Steph stared at me through her blue eye's, they became watery as she looked away and changed the subject...
"Do you think Mara will allow me to be her flower girl?"
"Flower Girl?, you are not 6 years old, and I don't know sweetheart, that's girls talk between the two of you, why don't you chat with Mara later?, she would love that."
"Yeah, I guess, and you know what I meant,"
I laughed, it was good having my kids back with me, I really wanted to give us and Mara a new start to life and erase the bad memories of there awful childhood with Dorothea and me. I know I could not make the past right, but I know I could direct all our futures together. It was great too they all loved Mara. They met her one time in the hospital and within seconds a bond was formed between them all. Mara is an incredible person and I was so lucky to have her. No we were all lucky to have her.
"have you guy's set a date, I was thinking summer would be cool eh?"

I laughed at Steph's excitement,

"not yet, give us time we have only been engaged for 24 hours.... Breaking for a second, I continued..." I'm pleased your keen and proud of you  Steph."
"Proud? of what?"
"Of you for being you, for helping me see the light and for coming back into my life, and allowing me to become your dad again...and for accepting Mara, it cant be easy for any of you?"
Steph walked over and hugged me. We always wanted to be with you, but Mom would never let us. We were all trapped with her, and cos you never really contacted us we all thought you did not care about us. I am so glad we now know the truth and we are all together. and Mara, she is really lovely, I like her, really like her"
Silent pause while we embraced each other, then Steph spoke again. 

"So, have you thought where you want to get married?, and please don't choose somewhere tacky like Vegas."

"Vegas is not tacky. and it will be both our choice and we will discuss it with you guys first too."

"umm, you really aint planned this well at all have ya pops,?" rolling her eyes to the ceiling.
"meaning?"
"Well, no idea of what is a romantic proposal, no idea of venues, honestly, when I meet the man of my dreams he better do things real romantic.... I want to be whisked to Paris, and have a one knee proposal up the Eiffel tower, I want our wedding in Hawaii..."
Whoa, steady on Steph, you need a boyfriend first.... and I think you will need to hint about what you want, guy's don't think in flowers and paint." She punched my arm, then continued;
" by the way dad, engaged is so last year, its now a couple commitment party. Shall I tell Grandma?"

"well, thanks for that information Steph, but I am an old fashioned guy and we are engaged. and no, don't tell Grandama"
Steph rolled her eyes in exasperation.... Rolling her eye's was becoming a habit, I guessed it was to do with being a teen...

"whatever oldie... so, what time you going to Grandma's?"

"just having my coffee, then I'm outta here why?

"Can I come too?"

Of course you can, but I think you need to wear something warmer than your PJ's"
A quick look down at her clothes she giggled and took off upstairs, leaving me to drink my coffee, I was deep in thought looking out over the back yard and admiring the autumn colours and the leaves falling from the tree's; when another idea struck; Maybe having my daughter with me we could stop at Mandre's a beautiful designer gown shop in Town, Steph could help me choose as another surprise for Mara. A fantastic gown to wear for our engagement party. 

Within minutes Steph was back dressed in her Jeans and t-shirt with sweater and wrap and knee length boots.

"You look nice sweetheart, you want breakfast before we go?"

"Nah, I'm not really hungry, I'll take some fruit for later."
Grabbing fruit from the bowl she slipped them into her purse."
"Ok, I'm ready pop."
"Listen Steph, how would you like a new gown to wear for tonight, and I was thinking, what would you say to helping me choose one for Mara too?, as a surprise?"
"Wow, really, yeah that would be great, you are talking about calling at Mandre's right?"
"Yeah, so whad ya say? or am I entering dangerous territory?"
"Nah, its a great idea pop, but I think you should choose a gown for Mara, but then when we get home tell her she needs to go try it on, then if she does not like the gown you have chosen or it don't suit her she can try something else. "Getting more excited Steph carried on. "Maybe I could go with her and we can have a  bit of us girl time, after all she is going to be my new Mom?" with a beaming smile she looked at me.
"Well?"
"That sounds like a great idea." Walking from the breakfast nook into the lobby, opening the door I gestured for Steph to leave. " after you ma'am"
Buckled up and in the car we headed off to my mom's to collect the ring. I made a call to Garrards on route and confirmed that I would call in and drop off the ring to have it cleaned and polished.
"Pop."
"yeah."
"the boys, what will they wear tonight, all our good clothes are still at mom's?"
"don't worry sweetheart, I'll ring Buckleys and get the boys an appointment and we can hire them tux's for the night."
" tux's? really do you think they want to be dressed up like a waiter? people may mistake them for the hired hands " Steph threw back her head laughing.
"ok, miss smarty pants, do you have any better idea's?"
"Yeah I do, give Jesse your credit card and let him out shopping with it... no limit.. I could go with them too , just to make sure they don't get the wrong thing."
I looked at Steph who had her beaming mischievous smile.
"I don't think so Miss, but nice try... Its back to plan A",
 Picking up my cell I rang the store, the appointment was booked for 2pm, another call to Jesse and we were pulling up at my ma's house.
Walking into her lobby I gave her a hug and thanked her for everything. She was beaming and it was so evident she was over joyed for both Mara and me. Following my ma though the house to the kitchen my pop walked out of the den.
"Congratulations Son, I'm real happy for you. so, she aint just your trainer after all eh?" he smiled and winked at me; Dad being dad could always be relied on to be coarse and vulgar. I just smiled and nodded at my pop and carried on walking with my mom to the back room to collect Mara engagement ring.

 

 

 



Chapter 37 - Free To Go

 

 

After speaking with the Doctor about my shoulder, I was given my release papers and made to promise no heavy lifting, anything strenuous and no guitar playing until the wound had fully healed. I was given an appointment to return in 14 days to have my stitches removed, thanking the Doc and the nurses that had looked after both Mara and me, I headed off to find my beautiful fiancée.

 

Arriving at her door I poked my head round,

 

"Hey beautiful are you ready?"

"Nearly, just give me a second."

"You know what, you never gave me an answer to my question?"

"About what?"

"About moving in with me?"

"didn't I?"

"Nope."

I moved inside the room and walked over to Mara sliding my hands and arms around her waist, she spun round to look at me.

"well, that's so bad of me," with a big grin on her face, I knew this was not going to be a simple yes or no... she continued to play....

" Do ya wanna know now?"

"well that would help, I need to know where I am going."

" mm mm let me see..... my mom's or with you? it's a tough call I'll be honest with ya.... mom or you...."

"ok, stop teasing already, what's it to be smart ass..."

"I'm thinking..... don't push it Bongiovi..." she prodded me again, these prods were getting frequent, I just pulled her in tighter, mindful of my shoulder.

"A little room to breathe please..."

"uh uh, not till you tell me..."

"please babe I can't breathe..."

"Tough, tell Goodward soon to be Bongiovi..."

laughing she gave in...

"Ok, ok ok, I wanna be with you..."

releasing Mara from my embrace, I smiled....

"now that wasn't so hard was it?"

She slid her hands around my neck and pulled me in for a kiss, and answered; 

"no not at all."

we were so wrapped up with each other we never heard our Mom's enter the room. My mom wasted no time in clearing her throat to let us know we were not alone.

 

Breaking from our kiss with Mara still in my arms, I looked across to the doorway to my mom and Ruth standing there.

The look on Ruth's face told me my mom had already told her our news.

"Hey guy's, I've got it covered, Mara is moving in with me."

"Really Jon; is she?" Ruth asked with a beaming smile on her face.  

"You don't mind do ya mom?"

"Mind why would I mind, but is there something else you want to tell me?"

I watched my mom who was backing out of the door,

"Mom, where are you going, come back here."

What, I was just giving Ruth more room, nothing more?"

"Really?, Mom you've told her?"

"I don't know what you mean."

Guilt was wrote all over her face, and she was crimson in colour.

"C'mon Mom, give, you have told Ruth our news... Right?"

sheepishly she held her head down and nodded.

"mom, you promised...."

"I'm sorry babies, It just kinda slipped out when I invited Ruth to the celebration party tomorrow, she asked what it was for, and well I'd said engagement before I could stop it leaving my mouth, and then the secret was out...."

"mom, what am I gonna do with ya, so who else knows and no lying, give?"

"no-one, I promise, it was just Ruth and Great Grandma Lilly,  you said I could tell her..."

"Ah hah, who else."

both Mara and me sat on the bed watching my mom, shifting first from one foot then the other.

"C'mon Mom who else"

"your dad, how could I not tell him... but that's it I swear.."

"not buying it Mom, c'mon give, were going no where till you tell..."

"no-one else honest.."

"Mom, I'll find out..."

Carol, tell them....Ruth prompted my mom.

"well, just Matty and Tony, well they are your brothers........."

"but you promised you would let us share our good news?"

hanging her head in shame, she looked remorseful, Mara looked over at me and mouthed "don't be to hard..."

I rose from the bed and walked over  tilted her chin to look at me.

"I'm sorry both, I was, am so excited I could not keep it in... I never meant to spoil the surprise."

"it's ok, I knew when you found out that you could would not keep it to yourself." kissing the top of her head I made it good between us.

"So what time do you need us tomorrow?"

"8pm and don't be late... its gonna be special" the sparkle returning to her eye's, now I needed to ask my mom a favour.

"mom can I talk with you outside?"

"why I said I am sorry..."

"no, its not about that, please, there's something I want to ask you?"

"oh, ...ok..."

Excusing ourselves from Mara and Rut we walked out near to the main reception so we could not be over heard.

"Do you still have Great, Great, Grandma Edwina's engagement ring?"

"of course why?"

"Could I have it from you?"

"Oh my god, you want to give it to Mara?"

"Yes I do, Mara and I were talking about engagement rings and she has said she loves the old antique rings, I knew we had great, great, grandma's ring and thought it would be perfect, its size is small too and I think it would fit perfect on Mara's hand."

"Oh baby, that's a beautiful idea. when do you want it?"

"tomorrow night when I announce it officially; I want to put it on Mara's hand."

" oh that's so perfect."

"what's perfect," Mara and her mom were right behind us,

"you are, just making arrangements with my mom for tomorrow, so you ready baby?"

"Yeah all ready, and discharged."

carrying her bag, we left Arlington Hospital, my mom and Ruth headed off to there car and us to mine.

Bag in the trunk, and both buckled up we set off to go home, to our home....

 

 



Chapter 36 - Yes or No? that is the Question

I had to ask, "Mara Goodward, would you do me the honour of accepting my proposal and becoming my wife?"

Total silence befell me; shit this did not bode well. My heart was pounding at a tremendous rate, when I had married D it was in a late night ceremony in Vegas during my one night off during the tour, with D it was accepted that would happen and my folks knew I'd want a low key affair, this time If Mara accepted I wanted the big wedding, I wanted the works, shit I would even have the press and TV there if she would only say yes. Still nothing, I watched her expression trying to gage what her reaction was, shit was I too early, maybe I read her expressions wrong, maybe she felt pity for me? fuck......

"Jon, you mean it? you really want me to marry you?"

"Yes I do, I don't go round asking every girl I meet, so, I ask again, Mara Goodward will you do me the greatest honour and make me the happiest man in the world and agree to be my wife, Mrs Bongiovi?"

This time there was no hesitation and her arms went round my neck and and she pulled me forward to kiss me. I screamed out in pain as she jarred my shoulder, but I really did not care, she had said yes....

"Oh my god, I can't believe you want me?"

"Babe, I love you, I want to be with you for ever, I want us to have our own family, I want to make you happy as you have me?"

"Oh, Jon, I love you, I have dreamed about you asking me one day, but I never thought you would, I am so happy, as for our own family, I hope your ready Bon jovi because I want 5 kids, are you up for the challenge?"

"five?, laughing, I replied, "Yeah I am up for the challenge are you?"

"Hey Bon jovi I am fit remember," playfully prodding my belly she said, "you on the other hand have been slacking..."

"Hey, I have had other things to occupy my time, my girlfriend, sorry fiancée being in hospital for one."

"yeah yeah excuses.."

" come ere," I pulled her into my arms and pain in my shoulder or not I kissed her deep and passionately, I just wished we were at home alone and I would have taken her to bed and made love to her, but we were in the hospital this time me as a patient.

Pulling back, she laid looking at me, and I looking at her. From the nightmare 6 months earlier I had found the most beautiful girl, won my kids back and had the most wonderful future planned, starring at Mara I was day dreaming, she spoke softly,

"penny for them"

"I was just thinking I am the luckiest guy in the world,"

"Yes you are, and don't you forget it." playfully again she prodded me, just as we kissed again, there was a noise as my mom entered the room.

"Sorry to interrupt you, but what am I missing," the look on my mom's face told me she had guessed, Mara was still laying on the bed in my arms.

"Nothing ma, nothing..."

"Jon Francis, don't try and be a smart ass with me, you know it don't work, so come on, you both look like the cat that has got the cream, what gives?"

Mara and I were like love sick teenagers, we could not stop smiling and grinning.

"Do you wanna tell her or shall I?" Mara was bursting,

"You can hon."

Mara turned to face my mom and sat up,

"Mom, Jon and I, what I mean to say is Jon has asked me to marry him... and well I have accepted and said yes...." her face beaming and her eyes sparkled like the brightest diamond as she watched and waited on my Mom's reaction.

"Oh, babies, I am so happy for you both, Congratulations,  really, I have always wanted a daughter, and now I have my miracle, grabbing Mara from the bed she gave her the Bongiovi hug, "Welcome to the family."

Mara was hugged tight and firm and it left no doubt that she was welcome.

"Hey ma, let her breathe," she released Mara from her grip, a smile beaming on her face,

"So, have you told your mom too?"

"No ma, you are the first to know, we are gonna tell Ruth later, when we both get out of here, so please, I know its a killer but do you think you can keep it to yourself until we have told everyone, including the kids?"

My mom looked at me, "Jon Francis, as if I would spoil your surprise, can I tell Great Grandma Lilly at least? let me have some fun with this fantastic news?"

laughing I agreed she could tell my great Grandma, and swore to her that was the only person. With a sulky pout she agreed.

"So how are you son?, how long are you being kept in for?"

"I dunno, its sore, but I am ok, getting there"

"Has the Dr not seen you?"

"No ma, I aint been awake that long, they are busy, he will come and see me when he can."

"no he won't, you are just as important as the other patients, in fact more so, you are my son Jon..."

"Mom.... drop it, don't ya dare throw the Jon Bon Jovi card, I'm warning ya, sit down already, or go get us all a drink at least."

"But, all I want to know is..."

"Mom, enough,"

"Ok, but we should not be here, we should be out celebrating your fantastic news, god damn that bitch of an ex daughter in law, stabbing my baby and putting him in hospital"

"Mom we will celebrate ok, just relax, the weekend is coming, we can sort things for a celebration then?"

"Really?, of course it makes perfect sense, Mara is being released on Friday, you will be out and we can hold a real Bongiovi celebration party."

I looked at Mara and mouthed the words, "Sorry"

she smiled back and mouthed "its Fine"

Now my mom knew the news I knew that everyone would be told before we had a chance to tell them, but they would be sworn to secrecy and made to look and act surprised when we did announce our engagement. To be honest, I did not really care, seeing my mom happy and Mara agreeing to be my wife, nothing else was going to spoil our precious moment.

Chapter 35 - In Gods Hands

I sat with the cop at my side waiting to be assessed. The pain was excruciating and I was feeling dizzy from loss of blood. He was talking but I just could not focus on anything except the pain. My patience snapped...

"For the love of god, will you just shut the fuck up already.. jeez where is the Dr, I feel real dizzy..."
I was really struggling to stay awake, I never saw the cop leave my side to get help, but the next thing I knew I was on a gurney being taken to x ray, and then back to a cubicle and to a Dr.
I was drifting in and out of consciousness and was aware of people talking but I could not string together what was being said.

I was aware of my jacket and t shirt being removed, and then the pain I felt it seared through my soul and I heard screaming not realising the scream was actually me; as the Dr removed the knife,  then a heavy weight, followed more pain. When I awoke; I was in a bed; in a room, I could hear the Dr's and nurses outside at their station..... adjusting my eyes,  a familiar voice spoke, turning my head I saw Mara,
"Hey sleepy head..."
"Hey, what time is it?"
"A little after eleven."
"really?" I tried to move but the pain was to intense and I screamed out loud.
"Shit, man my arm".
"Yeah, rest easy, do you need some meds I can call the nurse?"
I shook my head, "no, its ok,"
"Jon, can I ask you something."
"Sure, babe anything shoot, though not literally; a stabbing in one day is enough.." I laughed...
"Don't joke , please; she could have killed you..., I really cannot believe she did that to you?,"
"I'm sorry... bad joke...am I forgiven..." holding her gaze her eye's softened and she nodded in response.....
I smiled and taking Mara's hand I needed to know what she wanted to ask,
"what do ya wanna know?"
Mara paused before she answered.....
"Well, ....  did she really come here to get to me?"

After being scolded  the last time for trying to protect her, I decided honesty was the best policy so answered truthfully....

"Yeah she did, baby, I'm sorry,  she went to the house first and threatened Jesse, he rang me to warn me. her behaviour shook him up for sure, but he's ok thank god."

I could see the shock on Mara's face,

"Oh my god; really is Jesse Ok?"

"Yeah he's fine, a strong fighter like his dad......  but are you ok?"

"Yeah I guess, I never had anyone hate me and want to hurt me before, it's new to me....I'm adjusting"

Being in the public's spotlight I adjusted to things like stalkers, threats, hell I had excellent lawyers to deal with that kinda shit; but this was different it was my ex wife trying to harm my girlfriend, I had to reassure her....

"It shouldn't be something to adjust too or get used too, and baby, I will take care of it all I promise, ok? you do trust me right?"

" You have protected me with your life Jon, that's why your laying here now.... how can I not trust you. I would prefer you let the police do the protecting though and you stop being a hero. I want you alive not dead" 

The look of love wrote across her face told me she loved me unconditionally as I did her;  I spoke,

"Mara I would give my life for you, because I love you, more than I have ever loved anyone, you are my world Mara,... I can never imagine my life without you in it? I never thought I would meet my soul mate but I have and I never want to lose you,"

Swallowing a lump that had formed in my throat I continued..

"earlier today when you ask me if I wanted you, I was shocked you asked me that? I really thought you knew me. for months you have known how I think, shit when you ask that question it stung babe, I don't mind telling ya...."

"Oh, god I was such a bitch, especially after everything you have done for me, I am so sorry..... I guess now is a good a time as any to explain my outburst...."

Tears were pricking the back of her eye's, as she looked at me; but I nodded for her to continue;
Taking a deep breath and exhaling Mara began....

"ok, when you asked me the question about moving in with you, genuinely for that moment I responded I thought you were asking me out of pity," I know, I am stupid.... but given everything I was being told, by the Consultant,.... my job... my senses left me for a short time....."
I interrupted,

"I thought you had enough of me, and I can't blame you with all this shit, hell; ever since you have hooked up with me its been one disaster after the other."

"Jon, please, can I finish before you speak, this is hard for me...."

"I'm sorry" I stayed quiet and listened...

"Good, ok, earlier, yes I was reminiscent of Brian too, I only had a short time with him, but yes we lived a whole life times worth of love together, and naturally I miss him, and part of me always will. I can't deny my feelings for him, or switch them off.  I loved him, hell I still love him. but now the love is for what we shared then and not now. does that make sense?.

I nodded, I did not want to interrupt again, I wanted to understand,  and I could see Mara was opening up her feelings to me.

"when Brian died in the 9/11 attacks, no one can imagine the pain I felt watching the south tower collapse, knowing that my husband was there at work because of me wanting to delay our vacation by one day. It matters not that terrorists took down the towers, my selfishness killed him. My heart halted and stayed in my mouth as I watched in horror my husband falling to his early death. I guess what I am saying is, your mom in law burning my house.  was this my punishment for killing Brian?, and Dorethea trying to get to me, was that another punishment to say I do not deserve a second chance at love?....... see, my head has been all over the place today, and when I said I did not know, I really meant I did not know, not that I did not want to be with you.... I just had to sort it out in my head....."

"But baby, Brian dying was a coincidence, a terrible one, it was not your fault. no one could have pre ented the attack that day, and of course its not your punishment, and no one I know more deserves a second chance at love more than you....."

she looked down at me, and tears falling she smiled....
"Thank you,"

I wanted to hug Mara, reassure her everything would be fine, but the pain from my shoulder I could not move, she was sat beside me, her head bowed down looking into her hands.
I reached out and took her hand and brought it to my lips and gently kissed her hand. My actions I hope speaking louder than my words for a change.

She raised her head and looked into my eye's. "Jon I am sorry for hurting you, please can you forgive me?"
"there is nothing to forgive."

Mara smiled fully, for the first time in a very long time, her eye's crinkled and sparkled, as she lent into me and we kissed.
It was now or never, I had to ask her,

"So Mara Goodward, will you do me the honour of..........