A few days later they had arrived in Chicago, after the show the band and crew had all gone out to sample the Chicago nightlife. America's second city had alot to offer.
Later on in the night Sandy dragged Ruby into a quieter place, a bar where they had live blues music playing.
'I'm just going to the bathroom' she said as Sandy headed to the bar.
During the night they had become separated with the others when they had gone to a dance club.
From across the room Ruby spied Jon talikng to a woman, a beautiful brunette.
'Hey there you are Jon!'
She walked up behind him, going to put her hand on his shoulder.
His back tensed up at the sound of her voice.
'Can't you see i'm busy? Just leave us a minute.' He near enough shouted at her.
Wounded. In a moment of de ja vu she turned on her heel and ran away from them. This time she didn't hold back the tears. She barely even looked in the direction she was going, she just needed out of there fast.
She ran straight into someone's shoulder.
'I'm sorry.' She stuttered between sobs.
'Hey...Hey. Darlin what's wrong? Come here.'
Richie curled his arms around her.
'Richie i...i just want to go home.'
'Come on i'll take you.'
'No i mean home home. Just anywhere away from him.'
Richie walked with his arms around her as she cried, the kind of tears where you can't find your breath.
He waved down a cab outside the bar and took Ruby back to the hotel.
***
'Are you going to tell me what's up now?' He said as he poured her a whiskey. He had taken her to his hotel suite.
'I can't drink this!' she said.
'It'll calm you down. And it'll lubricate your tongue so i can find out what's got you in this state.'
Reluctantly she sipped at the glass. Wincing with every taste, in the end she just downed it.
Richie nodded, quite impressed.
'It's Jon.'
Richie pulled up another barstool and sat himself down beside her.
'I mean we have....sort of, i don't know what it is. Seems like bugger all now.'
'Bugger all?'
'Nothing.'
'Right. Sorry girl but i'm really confused here.' Richie said pouring himself a whiskey.
'There has been something between us.'
Suddenly richie became aware, it was a case of Jon fucking it up with a girl again.
'Okay.'
'Well he's been a bit....whenever i have gone to kiss him public he's said stop it and just spoke to me as if i was a child. And then later come creeping back to me with some lame excuse.'
'And tonight?'
'And tonight i go up to him and say hey, he didn't even turn round. Shouted at me to leave him alone.' With that the tears started to flow again. 'I just feel like i'm being used. And i'm sick of it.'
'Come here.' Richie held her close as she sobbed into his chest, 'I don't know what to say, i know how Jon is. He can be a grade A prick sometimes.'
'I hate him....'
Richie hushed her as she cried against him.
A while later with the help of the whiskey she had cried herself to sleep.
***
Richie headed over to Jon's suite.
Banging on the door harder than was polite considering other guests.
The door swung open in seconds.
'Richie, fuck i thought it was going to be...'
'Yeah i know who you thought it was gonna be.'
'You do? Is she okay? Where is she?'
'In bed.'
'Your bed?'
'Fuck you, now is not the time for petty jealousy.'
Jon's shoulders sunk, he didn't really think that anything had happened.
'Sorry Rich.'
He wandered over to the fridge fetching coke for them both.
'You shouldn't be apologising to me Jon. That girl was breaking her heart over you all night.'
Jon looked at the ground. Fuck.
'I didn't mean to....but maybe it's for the best.'
'What? For the best? This has got to be some fucked up logic.'
'The woman i was with...Richie, it was Diane.'
'Diane? Shit.'
'Yeah it was a bit tense, i snapped. But i've been on thin ice with Shorty for a while.'
'Yeah she said you had been messing her around.'
'It's hard Rich. I want her...but i know i'm all wrong for her.' He sipped from his coke. 'She's too good for me man. She's young, her whole life ahead of her. And smart, she's really smart Richie, gonna be an architect some day. I've kept her away from her studies too long already, i don't want to ruin her life anymore. I need to end it once and for all'
'I'm not gonna give you any bullshit advice. You've got to do what you need to do Jon. But just whatever you decide for God's sake let her in on it this time.'
Richie got up to leave. 'And tell her now, don't keep her hanging.'
'Ok i will. But Rich, i need to ask a favour.'
--------------------
Richie had given him his room key, so the next morning Jon headed to his suite, running words over in his head.
'Shorty...' he started to call but he saw her sat at the table the second he opened the door.
'What do you want Jon?' Her eyes were reddened from crying.
He invited himself in and sat down.
'To explain some stuff.'
She was reading a newspaper, dressed in a baggy hoody and shorts.
'Like your inability to be a decent human being?'
'Okay i deserved that. But just hear me out yeah?'
'That woman you saw me with. Her name is Diane. She's an actress. We were together on and off for about 8 years. I haven't seen her for 2.'
Ruby didn't respond. Just looked at him waiting for more.
'It didn't end well last time and i didn't expect to see her, you caught me at a bad time and i'm sorry.'
'Okay. I think maybe i over reacted, i can see why...'
'Stop it.' Jon said holding his head in his hands.
She was shocked, what the hell?
'Why are you so nice to me? I don't deserve it.'
'I must be stupid then.'
'No you aren't. Don't ever say that.'
Silence. Neither of them knew what to say next...Ruby broke the ice.
'So where do we go from here?'
'I think maybe we should go back to being just friends. It could never work you know that right?'
She was knocked for six....Friends is not enough, she wanted to say to him.
Jon continued, 'You know i'm right. A relationship wouldn't work out between us. We're from two different worlds.'
'Cut the crap Jon. Just say it. You want to go back to this Diane.'
You couldn't be further from the truth if you tried, he thought. 'Yes Shorty. I do. We have history.'
'And we didn't have a chance.' She was calm, resolved.
'She's in the public eye you know? Like me. She understands....and it makes sense for me to be out there, premieres and...'
'Is that all love is to you? She'll help you sell more records?' A tear trailed down her face. 'Well if that's the case i feel sorry for you Jon.'
Damn it. Don't cry it's hard enough as it is, he thought. 'It's not like it was going to work out anyway, it was fun....'
'Right. Fun. I see where I stand. Don't worry now that the fun is over i will get out of your precious hair.' She replied, getting up to leave.
------------------
She didn't feel like it at all but she stayed for one more show. Indianapolis.
She wanted to say goodbye to the crew, especially Sandy.
For the first time she had her own hotel suite. She had barely seen Jon since their talk.
'I am gonna miss you kid.' Sandy said holding her tight.
'I'll miss you too. It's been great fun, thank you. Is it ok if i keep in touch?'
'You better do! And i'll see you when we're over there won't i?'
'I don't know...maybe. See i'll have my studies.' She lied. She didn't think she could stand to see Jon again.
'Well i'll come and drag you away from the books. Just look after yourself you hear?'
'I will.'
For the last song of the show Jon had added Never Say Goodbye, it was performed acoustically. The highlight of a lacklustre show.
Jon just felt low, he knew what he was doing was right for her in the long run, even though it killed him to do it.
But the token was in vain. Ruby wasn't there to hear it, she had snuck off before the show started.
----------------------
As she packed her suitcase there was a knocking on the hotel door.
She dropped the shirt she was folding and walked over to open the door.
'Jon.'
He was stood in the doorway, obviously hadn't changed since the show.
'Hey.' He smiled, she didn't reciprocate.
They stood for a second.
'Can i come in?' Jon asked.
'I'm actually busy packing....' She had hoped to be gone before the show ended, avoiding the goodbye.
'This won't take a minute.'
She sighed stepping aside. 'Okay but i have to pack while you talk.'
'That's fine. I just didn't want you to leave without saying goodbye.'
'What's the point Jon? After this i can't be just your friend. Let's just call it quits.'
'I'll miss you.'
'And i will miss you....I have missed you. For the past couple weeks....missed the person who i thought you were anyway.' She could feel the tears threatening.
Dammit i won't cry in front of him again.
She walked over to the bedside table pretending to look for something.
'You know i've always lived my life and said no regrets, life's too short. But things change i guess...' Jon said.
With that he turned and walked out of the room.
-------------------
She put her headphones on and rummaged in her hand luggage for her CDs. This was going to be a long flight, she needed to take her mind off things.
Pulling out the holder she noticed a jiffy envelope in her bag.
What the hell? Good job my bag wasn't searched.
There was nothing on the envelope, so she opened it up.
It had a cassette player inside, no note or anything.
She plugged her headphones into the player, not knowing what to expect, but curious all the same she hit play.
I'll be there to hold you by the hand
When you need someone to walk you home
You know that I'll be there to understand
When you call me on the phone
I'll be there to watch you when you sleep
When you close your eyes at night
And I'll be there to keep your secrets kept,
Cross my heart, hope to die
I swear each word is true
There's only one thing I wouldn't do
I'll be there when you need a real friend
I'll be there to listen to your schemes
I'll be there to give you all I've got
I'll be there when you paint your masterpiece
And I'll be right beside your every move
I'll give you my eyes so you can see
And I'll help you to find the things you've lost
When you're busting at the seams
I swear each word is true
There's only one thing I wouldn't do
I ain't gonna love you
I ain't gonna love you
Nobody wants you like I want you
Nobody needs you like I need you
You know I would beg and plead,
get down on my knees
do most anything, it's true
But I ain't gonna love you
I ain't gonna love you
'Cause I love you
I'll be there to love the things you love
I'll be the one who knows your middle name
Be the only one that you can trust
I'll give you the blood that's in my veins
I swear these words are true
There's only one thing I wouldn't do
I ain't gonna love you
'Cause nobody wants you like I want you
Nobody needs you like I need you
You know I would beg and please, get down on my knees
Do most anything for you
But I ain't gonna love you
I ain't gonna love you
Because I love you.
Because I love you.
She just sat in tears.
After the song finished she rewound it and played it again.
Thursday 30 October 2008
Friday 24 October 2008
Chapter 25: Third time's a charm.
Half an hour later she heard him come in, she expected him to be longer than that.
'Shorty you awake?'
Rapping lightly on her door.
He slowly opened and stepped through. 'Babe?'
She felt the depression of the bed as he sat down on the edge.
'I know you're pissed at me.'
She didn't say anything.
'And I know you're awake because you ain't drooling.' He joked.
She unsuccessfully tried to stifle a laugh.
'Dammit Jon don't make me laugh, i have to be cross at you right now.'
'Sorry.'
He smiled in the dark. She's not that mad.
'At the airport i could understand it, i mean it's public, paperazzi could have seen. But Jon this was a private party, so what's your excuse tonight?'
'The airport?' he shook his head.
'God Jon you are so dense, forget it.'
'Come on babe, Can't you see that i'm trying?'
'Yes you are very trying.'
It was Jon's turn to try and stifle a laugh.
'It's fine really Jon...but it's late and i need some sleep.'
Not once had she turned to look at him, he sighed getting up from the bed.
'Goodnight Shorty.'
Jon walked out to the living area of the suite and poured himself a whiskey from the bar, downing it in one he grimaced slightly.
God if this girl isn't hard work.
----------------
The next morning Ruby got up early, deciding to head down to the hotel pool for a swim.
She sat at the edge of the pool dangling her legs in.
She noticed she wasn't alone, there was one other peron in the pool doing lengths.
The person swam down to her end before popping up at the side.
'Hi shorty.'
'Oh it's you. Hey Alex.'
He put his hands on the side and lifted himself out of the water to sit next to her.
He had the broadest shoulders she had ever seen.
'Have a good time at the party last night?'
'Not really. Felt a bit out of the loop you know?'
'Yeah i get that, with all the old time friends there.'
'So how come you were there? Bit young to be a friend.'
'Yeah i'm not a friend, i'm family. Richie's my cousin.'
'Really? I thought you looked a bit familiar, you have the same eyes.'
Really nice eyes... She shook her head. Don't add more confusion into the mix...even if he is really hot....
'Anyway a bit early for a swim isn't it? The morning after the night before...'
'Well i kind of have to. I'm a swimmer.'
'For a living?'
'Yeah.' He laughed.
'Wow that's pretty cool.'
'Yeah it's ok, i get to do a load of travelling.'
'Are you good?'
He laughed again 'Want a race?'
'I would but, i'm a bit nervous to get in.'
'How come?'
'I don't actually know if i can swim.'
He looked at her strangely.
'It's complicated.....okay well it's not. I've got amnesia. I can't remember anything about myself before august.'
'Wow, that must be a bit weird.'
'A bit yeah....'
'Come on jump in, if you can't swim i won't let you drown.'
------------------
Later on that morning she walked into the apartment to find Jon sat at the table, breakfast infront of him.
'Hey.'
'Hi Jon.'
'I can ring down for more if you want?'
'It's ok i've eaten.'
'Oh.'
She went to walk into her bedroom.
'Shorty, about last night....'
She turned back around to see him pushing a half eaten pancake around his plate.
'I know i hurt you, I never....I'm sorry.'
'That's ok, really don't beat yourself up about it.'
'So we're cool?'
She nodded firmly, 'cool.'
------------------
That afternoon they were on yet another flight, this time to Detroit.
The atmosphere was a tad frosty.
The guys being guys attributed it to hang overs and mid-tour blues.
But Sandy knew different. After their talk earlier in the day she presumed something had gone on between Jon and Ruby.
She told Ruby in no uncertain terms that they were going to have a girls only night out. Ruby reluctantly agreed.
------------------
Jon was leaning against the door frame as she sat at the dressing room mirror.
He watched her silently for a minute.
Her blonde hair was down around her shoulders, styled with a slight curl.
She wore a turquoise blue dress, and matching stilettoes with a three inch heel. God if that dress doesn't hug her in all the right places. And those legs...how can they go on forever when she's so small...
'Can i help you Jon?'
Busted!
'I hope you aren't going to be getting up to any mischief tonight?'
'And if i did what's it got to do with you?' She said and stuck her tongue out at him.
Ouch. Her tone was light but he could tell she meant it.
He moved over to her and sat on the small stool next to her, budging her over.
She tutted at him as she moved across to give him more room.
'Why can't we go back to how we were?'
'How we were? You mean kissing and God knows what when we are alone and best buddies in public?'
He lent his elbow on the table, resting his chin on his hand. Just looking at her. He hoped his eyes could tell her what he couldn't say.
'We're still on this?'
'Well i just like to know where i stand.'
'Okay. I just didn't want to go public when it was all so new. I mean we didn't even really know what was going on. It just...it piles the pressure on. You know?'
She put her lipstick down on the table.
'Why didn't you tell me this the other night? Because that actually is a good excuse.'
'It's not an excuse babe. I'm just sorry i didn't handle it differently.'
Ruby nodded. Maybe he's not such an asshole after all.
'We really cool now?'
'Yes.'
Raising his hand to her chin he brushed his thumb across her lower lip.
'Good because i've missed these lips.'
He leaned in for the kiss.
As his lips softly touched hers, he hoped the kiss could instill in her how he felt.
In between tender kisses she said.
'You're messing up my lipstick.'
'You're not going to like this then babe.'
The next time his mouth met hers he gently opened her mouth with his tongue, finding her tongue equally willing.
Just as it was heating up he let her go.
'If we don't stop now Sandy is going to have to find someone else to go out with.' Jon said. His voice deep.
'And that's a bad thing?'
She felt the loss of his thigh touching hers as he got up from the stool. Leaving her with just a racing heart and butterflies in her stomach.
Damn. What one kiss does to me. She thought.
Walking to the door once more he turned back to her.
'By the way you look stunning.'
'Shorty you awake?'
Rapping lightly on her door.
He slowly opened and stepped through. 'Babe?'
She felt the depression of the bed as he sat down on the edge.
'I know you're pissed at me.'
She didn't say anything.
'And I know you're awake because you ain't drooling.' He joked.
She unsuccessfully tried to stifle a laugh.
'Dammit Jon don't make me laugh, i have to be cross at you right now.'
'Sorry.'
He smiled in the dark. She's not that mad.
'At the airport i could understand it, i mean it's public, paperazzi could have seen. But Jon this was a private party, so what's your excuse tonight?'
'The airport?' he shook his head.
'God Jon you are so dense, forget it.'
'Come on babe, Can't you see that i'm trying?'
'Yes you are very trying.'
It was Jon's turn to try and stifle a laugh.
'It's fine really Jon...but it's late and i need some sleep.'
Not once had she turned to look at him, he sighed getting up from the bed.
'Goodnight Shorty.'
Jon walked out to the living area of the suite and poured himself a whiskey from the bar, downing it in one he grimaced slightly.
God if this girl isn't hard work.
----------------
The next morning Ruby got up early, deciding to head down to the hotel pool for a swim.
She sat at the edge of the pool dangling her legs in.
She noticed she wasn't alone, there was one other peron in the pool doing lengths.
The person swam down to her end before popping up at the side.
'Hi shorty.'
'Oh it's you. Hey Alex.'
He put his hands on the side and lifted himself out of the water to sit next to her.
He had the broadest shoulders she had ever seen.
'Have a good time at the party last night?'
'Not really. Felt a bit out of the loop you know?'
'Yeah i get that, with all the old time friends there.'
'So how come you were there? Bit young to be a friend.'
'Yeah i'm not a friend, i'm family. Richie's my cousin.'
'Really? I thought you looked a bit familiar, you have the same eyes.'
Really nice eyes... She shook her head. Don't add more confusion into the mix...even if he is really hot....
'Anyway a bit early for a swim isn't it? The morning after the night before...'
'Well i kind of have to. I'm a swimmer.'
'For a living?'
'Yeah.' He laughed.
'Wow that's pretty cool.'
'Yeah it's ok, i get to do a load of travelling.'
'Are you good?'
He laughed again 'Want a race?'
'I would but, i'm a bit nervous to get in.'
'How come?'
'I don't actually know if i can swim.'
He looked at her strangely.
'It's complicated.....okay well it's not. I've got amnesia. I can't remember anything about myself before august.'
'Wow, that must be a bit weird.'
'A bit yeah....'
'Come on jump in, if you can't swim i won't let you drown.'
------------------
Later on that morning she walked into the apartment to find Jon sat at the table, breakfast infront of him.
'Hey.'
'Hi Jon.'
'I can ring down for more if you want?'
'It's ok i've eaten.'
'Oh.'
She went to walk into her bedroom.
'Shorty, about last night....'
She turned back around to see him pushing a half eaten pancake around his plate.
'I know i hurt you, I never....I'm sorry.'
'That's ok, really don't beat yourself up about it.'
'So we're cool?'
She nodded firmly, 'cool.'
------------------
That afternoon they were on yet another flight, this time to Detroit.
The atmosphere was a tad frosty.
The guys being guys attributed it to hang overs and mid-tour blues.
But Sandy knew different. After their talk earlier in the day she presumed something had gone on between Jon and Ruby.
She told Ruby in no uncertain terms that they were going to have a girls only night out. Ruby reluctantly agreed.
------------------
Jon was leaning against the door frame as she sat at the dressing room mirror.
He watched her silently for a minute.
Her blonde hair was down around her shoulders, styled with a slight curl.
She wore a turquoise blue dress, and matching stilettoes with a three inch heel. God if that dress doesn't hug her in all the right places. And those legs...how can they go on forever when she's so small...
'Can i help you Jon?'
Busted!
'I hope you aren't going to be getting up to any mischief tonight?'
'And if i did what's it got to do with you?' She said and stuck her tongue out at him.
Ouch. Her tone was light but he could tell she meant it.
He moved over to her and sat on the small stool next to her, budging her over.
She tutted at him as she moved across to give him more room.
'Why can't we go back to how we were?'
'How we were? You mean kissing and God knows what when we are alone and best buddies in public?'
He lent his elbow on the table, resting his chin on his hand. Just looking at her. He hoped his eyes could tell her what he couldn't say.
'We're still on this?'
'Well i just like to know where i stand.'
'Okay. I just didn't want to go public when it was all so new. I mean we didn't even really know what was going on. It just...it piles the pressure on. You know?'
She put her lipstick down on the table.
'Why didn't you tell me this the other night? Because that actually is a good excuse.'
'It's not an excuse babe. I'm just sorry i didn't handle it differently.'
Ruby nodded. Maybe he's not such an asshole after all.
'We really cool now?'
'Yes.'
Raising his hand to her chin he brushed his thumb across her lower lip.
'Good because i've missed these lips.'
He leaned in for the kiss.
As his lips softly touched hers, he hoped the kiss could instill in her how he felt.
In between tender kisses she said.
'You're messing up my lipstick.'
'You're not going to like this then babe.'
The next time his mouth met hers he gently opened her mouth with his tongue, finding her tongue equally willing.
Just as it was heating up he let her go.
'If we don't stop now Sandy is going to have to find someone else to go out with.' Jon said. His voice deep.
'And that's a bad thing?'
She felt the loss of his thigh touching hers as he got up from the stool. Leaving her with just a racing heart and butterflies in her stomach.
Damn. What one kiss does to me. She thought.
Walking to the door once more he turned back to her.
'By the way you look stunning.'
Monday 20 October 2008
Chapter 24: Heart to heart...to cold shoulder.
The band and Ruby all piled into a big people carrier to drive to the arena.
Ruby sat next to jon on the back row of seats. Richie, David and Hugh in the middle row and Tico up front next to the driver.
'Sorry about earlier, Richie's timing pretty much sucked.' He said quietly.
She smiled and just put her hand on his thigh as if to say 'it's alright'.
Jon cleared his throat and lifted her wrist off his leg.
'It's going to be hard enough getting through tonight as it is babe.'
'Oops sorry.' She smiled, 'But i know how you feel, damn Richie eh?'
Jon laughed 'I think i might....'
'Hey Maestro gonna spring any surprises on us tonight in the set?' David interupted.
Jon and Ruby looked up in shock as if they had been caught conspiring.
'I am now. Quit calling me Maestro. Jerk.'
David laughed it off turning to the front once more.
Ruby chuckled, 'You were saying?'
'Huh?'
'You think you might....?'
Have to sort my self out...or have a hard on the whole gig....
'Doesn't matter.' He said.
-----------------
The gig as usual went without a hitch.
Jon had, as promised to David, added a cover. Putting the Bruce Springsteen penned 'Because The Night' in as a prelude to 'Damned'.
Ruby had watched from the side stage as Jon pulled off a mesmerising performance. She felt as if the song was a matter of fact, hinting to what he intended would happen later.
She was flushed just watching him. The way he practically screamed some of the words, the way he held his eyes closed the whole song, gripping that famous white microphone stand for all it was worth. The way he swayed gently...
'Hey Short..............Shorty............Shorty!'
She snapped out of it, turning to see Sandy standing hand's on hips waiting for her.
'Costume change in five! come on.'
She jumped off the crate she was sat on and followed Sandy backstage.
***
'Penny for 'em?' Sandy asked.
'Oh sorry i don't have any.' Ruby answered, busying herself with putting fresh water bottles out.
'Looked like you had a million and one.'
'No it's okay.....but....well i guess i do need to talk to someone....I usually talk to Jon about stuff....'
Sandy just continued getting stuff ready.
'So shoot.'
'Shoot?'
'Shoot! Spill! Tell me about it.'
'Oh right okay, sorry slang and all...' Sandy gave her a look as if to say get a move on girl. '....Well it's Jon. Well we've been erm, getting closer.'
'Closer?' Sandy had finished laying the shirts out for the change.
'Yeah.'
'Have you...'
'No! No....well nearly. I'm just so confused.' Ruby said subconciously hugging her arms around herself.
Sandy grabbed her cigarettes, 'Come on they'll be out soon let's go outside.'
Sandy lit her cigarette and leaned against the door frame of the fire escape. They were stood round the back of the arena where all the lorries that carried the stage paraphernalia were parked.
'So. You and Jon?'
Ruby didn't say anything just kind of shuffled from foot to foot, it was a cold night.
'Well you have to tell me whats going on sweetheart if you want my advice.'
'It's. I don't know. We get on so well...but there has always been this undercurrent. You know....'
'You wanted to screw him senseless?'
'Sandy!'
'Well thats the bottom line isn't it?'
Sandy could always be trusted to boil things down to their essence when everyone else skirted around the subject.
'Alright Mrs straight talker. I did...do fancy him. But it's so messed up. I mean he's like my best friend.'
'And this is a bad thing?' Sandy asked.
Ruby thought for a second, 'Well yeah. What if it all gets screwed up? Then i've lost my boyfriend and best friend.'
'What if you don't take it further? You could miss out on the best thing you ever had. Not only are you best friends but you fancy the pants off each other. Win, win.'
She stubbed out her cigarette against the brick wall.
'Life's too short for what ifs sweetheart.'
Ruby sighed. 'Do you ever get sick of being right?'
'Not so far.' Sandy put her arm round Ruby's shoulder and walked with her back inside.
***
As they got inside the guys had already come off-stage and were changing.
Ruby sat on a chair at the side out of the way, it was a pretty chaotic time. They only had a few minutes before the encore started.
Jon was right in front of Ruby, he had his back to her.
She watched silently as he pulled off his sweat soaked T-shirt, it climbed his back revealing shiny flesh. Ruffling his hair as he finally took it over his head.
Sandy rushed over to him armed with a hair drier and proceded to dry his hair while he downed a bottle of cold water in one.
He turned allowing her to dry the back of his hair, catching Ruby watching him in the process.
She shyly looked away, pretending like she wasn't staring.
He smiled to himself, he liked that she was checking him out.
Slipping on a shirt he called to the rest of the band to hurry up, it was time to get back on-stage.
First Tico, then David, Hugh and Richie high fived Ruby as they strode passed.
Jon just smiled and winked.
------------------
After the gig there was a small party in the hotel. As it was their home turf plenty of friends had shown their faces.
This is why they chose to stay in a hotel insted of their respective homes. No tidying up afterwards!
Ruby sat at the bar alone, watching everyone else catching up. Hugging, laughing, generally enjoying each other's company.
Times like these she felt most alone.
'Can i get a beer?'
She turned to see who was ordering a drink.
'Can i see an ID?' the barman replied.
'Aww man not in front of the young lady, ruin my cool.' he laughed handing over a card.
He was tall, maybe six foot, short dark hair cut pretty close, and he cut quite an impressive figure in his two piece suit.
The barman served him, seemingly satisfied he was old enough to drink alcohol.
'Can i get you something?'
He looked at her, something was familiar about him. He had the deepest brown eyes.
'I'm okay thanks.....under age' she leaned in and whispered the final two words.
He smiled back at her 'Got ya. I only turned twenty one a couple of months ago so i don't mind the ID thing'.
Ruby traced the lip of her glass, 'Sure you don't.'
'How long have you got then? ... Until you can legally drink i mean?'
She smiled. A sly way to find out more about me.
'Just under a year.'
She turned then to see Jon approaching them he got to about 3 metres away and gestured to her to come over.
'I better go, nice talking to you....' She paused for him to insert his name.
'Alex.'
'Nice talking to you Alex, i'm Shorty.' With that she turned away to join Jon.
'Hey you.' He said as she reached him.
They strolled more towards the centre of the party, side by side.
'You having fun?'
'It's alright yeah. Seeing some old faces.' Jon replied.
They stopped and he looked at her properly for the first time since they had got to the hotel. She had changed into a black halterneck and tight black jeans.
He reached to her and brushed her hair off her shoulder, revealing her neckline more.
God i just want to kiss it. He thought.
She smiled up at him, seeing the look in his eyes, she leaned in to kiss him.
He pulled away.
'Not here.'
Two words, like a punch in the gut.
She stood there for a second, just looking at him.
'I'm going to bed.'
She span round and walked quickly without looking back. Heading straight for the lobby, tears threatening her eyes.
Ruby sat next to jon on the back row of seats. Richie, David and Hugh in the middle row and Tico up front next to the driver.
'Sorry about earlier, Richie's timing pretty much sucked.' He said quietly.
She smiled and just put her hand on his thigh as if to say 'it's alright'.
Jon cleared his throat and lifted her wrist off his leg.
'It's going to be hard enough getting through tonight as it is babe.'
'Oops sorry.' She smiled, 'But i know how you feel, damn Richie eh?'
Jon laughed 'I think i might....'
'Hey Maestro gonna spring any surprises on us tonight in the set?' David interupted.
Jon and Ruby looked up in shock as if they had been caught conspiring.
'I am now. Quit calling me Maestro. Jerk.'
David laughed it off turning to the front once more.
Ruby chuckled, 'You were saying?'
'Huh?'
'You think you might....?'
Have to sort my self out...or have a hard on the whole gig....
'Doesn't matter.' He said.
-----------------
The gig as usual went without a hitch.
Jon had, as promised to David, added a cover. Putting the Bruce Springsteen penned 'Because The Night' in as a prelude to 'Damned'.
Ruby had watched from the side stage as Jon pulled off a mesmerising performance. She felt as if the song was a matter of fact, hinting to what he intended would happen later.
She was flushed just watching him. The way he practically screamed some of the words, the way he held his eyes closed the whole song, gripping that famous white microphone stand for all it was worth. The way he swayed gently...
'Hey Short..............Shorty............Shorty!'
She snapped out of it, turning to see Sandy standing hand's on hips waiting for her.
'Costume change in five! come on.'
She jumped off the crate she was sat on and followed Sandy backstage.
***
'Penny for 'em?' Sandy asked.
'Oh sorry i don't have any.' Ruby answered, busying herself with putting fresh water bottles out.
'Looked like you had a million and one.'
'No it's okay.....but....well i guess i do need to talk to someone....I usually talk to Jon about stuff....'
Sandy just continued getting stuff ready.
'So shoot.'
'Shoot?'
'Shoot! Spill! Tell me about it.'
'Oh right okay, sorry slang and all...' Sandy gave her a look as if to say get a move on girl. '....Well it's Jon. Well we've been erm, getting closer.'
'Closer?' Sandy had finished laying the shirts out for the change.
'Yeah.'
'Have you...'
'No! No....well nearly. I'm just so confused.' Ruby said subconciously hugging her arms around herself.
Sandy grabbed her cigarettes, 'Come on they'll be out soon let's go outside.'
Sandy lit her cigarette and leaned against the door frame of the fire escape. They were stood round the back of the arena where all the lorries that carried the stage paraphernalia were parked.
'So. You and Jon?'
Ruby didn't say anything just kind of shuffled from foot to foot, it was a cold night.
'Well you have to tell me whats going on sweetheart if you want my advice.'
'It's. I don't know. We get on so well...but there has always been this undercurrent. You know....'
'You wanted to screw him senseless?'
'Sandy!'
'Well thats the bottom line isn't it?'
Sandy could always be trusted to boil things down to their essence when everyone else skirted around the subject.
'Alright Mrs straight talker. I did...do fancy him. But it's so messed up. I mean he's like my best friend.'
'And this is a bad thing?' Sandy asked.
Ruby thought for a second, 'Well yeah. What if it all gets screwed up? Then i've lost my boyfriend and best friend.'
'What if you don't take it further? You could miss out on the best thing you ever had. Not only are you best friends but you fancy the pants off each other. Win, win.'
She stubbed out her cigarette against the brick wall.
'Life's too short for what ifs sweetheart.'
Ruby sighed. 'Do you ever get sick of being right?'
'Not so far.' Sandy put her arm round Ruby's shoulder and walked with her back inside.
***
As they got inside the guys had already come off-stage and were changing.
Ruby sat on a chair at the side out of the way, it was a pretty chaotic time. They only had a few minutes before the encore started.
Jon was right in front of Ruby, he had his back to her.
She watched silently as he pulled off his sweat soaked T-shirt, it climbed his back revealing shiny flesh. Ruffling his hair as he finally took it over his head.
Sandy rushed over to him armed with a hair drier and proceded to dry his hair while he downed a bottle of cold water in one.
He turned allowing her to dry the back of his hair, catching Ruby watching him in the process.
She shyly looked away, pretending like she wasn't staring.
He smiled to himself, he liked that she was checking him out.
Slipping on a shirt he called to the rest of the band to hurry up, it was time to get back on-stage.
First Tico, then David, Hugh and Richie high fived Ruby as they strode passed.
Jon just smiled and winked.
------------------
After the gig there was a small party in the hotel. As it was their home turf plenty of friends had shown their faces.
This is why they chose to stay in a hotel insted of their respective homes. No tidying up afterwards!
Ruby sat at the bar alone, watching everyone else catching up. Hugging, laughing, generally enjoying each other's company.
Times like these she felt most alone.
'Can i get a beer?'
She turned to see who was ordering a drink.
'Can i see an ID?' the barman replied.
'Aww man not in front of the young lady, ruin my cool.' he laughed handing over a card.
He was tall, maybe six foot, short dark hair cut pretty close, and he cut quite an impressive figure in his two piece suit.
The barman served him, seemingly satisfied he was old enough to drink alcohol.
'Can i get you something?'
He looked at her, something was familiar about him. He had the deepest brown eyes.
'I'm okay thanks.....under age' she leaned in and whispered the final two words.
He smiled back at her 'Got ya. I only turned twenty one a couple of months ago so i don't mind the ID thing'.
Ruby traced the lip of her glass, 'Sure you don't.'
'How long have you got then? ... Until you can legally drink i mean?'
She smiled. A sly way to find out more about me.
'Just under a year.'
She turned then to see Jon approaching them he got to about 3 metres away and gestured to her to come over.
'I better go, nice talking to you....' She paused for him to insert his name.
'Alex.'
'Nice talking to you Alex, i'm Shorty.' With that she turned away to join Jon.
'Hey you.' He said as she reached him.
They strolled more towards the centre of the party, side by side.
'You having fun?'
'It's alright yeah. Seeing some old faces.' Jon replied.
They stopped and he looked at her properly for the first time since they had got to the hotel. She had changed into a black halterneck and tight black jeans.
He reached to her and brushed her hair off her shoulder, revealing her neckline more.
God i just want to kiss it. He thought.
She smiled up at him, seeing the look in his eyes, she leaned in to kiss him.
He pulled away.
'Not here.'
Two words, like a punch in the gut.
She stood there for a second, just looking at him.
'I'm going to bed.'
She span round and walked quickly without looking back. Heading straight for the lobby, tears threatening her eyes.
Monday 13 October 2008
Chapter 23: 'Just Friends'
As he let her go her legs buckled slightly, before he put his hands round her waist to steady her.
'Wow.' She was light headed and unsteady on her feet.
'Hey babe how much have you had to drink?'
'Enough...can we do that again?' She leaned forward and put her arms round his neck.
'You have no idea how much i'd like to do that all night babe. But i don't want you to regret anything tomorrow.'
'I wouldn't regret you.'
Jon smiled 'Come on let's get you back to the hotel.'
----------------------
Jon turned the coffee machine on before creeping quietly into her room.
Tip-toeing to the curtains he quickly whipped them open and let the blinding sun into the room.
'Wakey wakey rise and shine, it's beautiful day.'
'I hate you!.' she shouted before pulling the covers up over her head.
He bounced onto the bed beside her.
'I know you love me really' he said with a pout.
'You wish.' she said, but she couldn't hold her laugh in.
'You want coffee?' Jon asked as he started to get up.
She pulled the covers down from her face, squinting in the sun.
Even hungover she is gorgeous he thought.
She had sleepy eyes half open, and her hair was a mess reminding him of his own in the eightes. He couldn't help but laugh.
'Even though you laughed at me, i will love you if you bring coffee.'
Jon came back into the room with a tray of bacon sandwiches and a pot of coffee.
Ruby had composed herself slightly, run a brush through her hair and washed her face.
'A sight for sore eyes.' She said.
Jon cocked an eyebrow.
'.......Breakfast i mean.'
He wore a Giants football jersey and an old torn pair of jeans that were barely decent. They had holes so you could see the pockets beneath the denim. When he sat down with the tray she felt she had to avert her eyes.
'I hear fat is the way forward for a hangover.' He said pouring the coffee and passing one over.
'I don't think i can bear to eat.' She said crinkling her nose up.
'Aww i even brought that brown sauce english people like....well i asked the concierge to bring it anyway.'
'Well if the concierge brought it i will have to have some.....' she said taking a plate from him. '....he's cute.'
Jon laughed.
------------------------
The tour went on through Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Wilkes Barre in Pennsylvania. Before rolling into East Rutherford, New Jersey.
They pulled up to the Continental Airlines Arena just before two. Early soundcheck and then a short time to do interviews. This was their 'hometown gig' so there was more press than usual.
Jon and Ruby had been getting along famously. And it had not gone un-noticed.
'So kid what's going on between you and the old man?' David nudged her once Jon was out of earshot.
'Mind your own Curly.' She joked back with him.
'Aww come on i'm all out of gossip here. Richie is all happily ever after with Mrs. Hollywood. He's my usual source.'
'We're friends. Like each other's company. Is that too much for you to understand? Sorry Dave you aren't gonna find your gossip fix here.'
She looked over to where Jon was recording a radio interview. He caught her eye and smiled that smile. The smile that sold a million records.
Yep just friends. She thought.
****
Later after soundcheck the band were back at their respective hotel rooms.
'There's so much waiting around i've noticed.' Ruby was sat on the couch flicking through the TV channels.
Jon sighed. 'Yeah can get a bit tedious, sitting in a hotel room for hours on end.'
'And American TV sucks! There is never anything good on.'
'Stop!' Jon shouted suddenly.
Ruby looked up but continued flicking.
'There was Football go back!'
'No. Way. Football sucks! It's not even football...'
'Gimme the remote!' Jon held his hand out to her.
She just shuffled further away from him on the couch and held it behind her.
'Right i warned ya! I'm taking it.'
Jon moved onto his knees on the long L-shaped couch and crawled towards her.
'Get away we don't have time for football.'
Jon came ever closer.
'There's always time for football.'
He was right in front of her now. She was sat cross legged her back against the arm rest of the couch still holding the remote behind her.
'How am i going to get that back hmm?' Jon said putting an arm either side of her bottom. Leaning in he softly kissed her on the lips.
She closed her eyes and moved in to deepen the kiss.
'Ha got ya!.' Jon quick as a flash reached behind her and snatched back the controller.
'No fair!.' She said lurching forward as Jon backed off, determined not to lose.
As she reached to get the remote she lost balance and fell forward onto Jon sending them toppling off the side of the couch onto the floor.
'Oww, crazy woman!.' Jon said laughing.
She had fallen on top of him.
Jon rubbed his head where he had banged it on the wooden floor boards. And Ruby took the opportunity to take back the remote.
Jon rolled them both over so he was ontop. He pinned her arms to the floor, their legs were entwined, he looked down at her.
'There is no escape now.'
She looked up smiling, 'Oh i'm quite happy where i am.'
Suddenly the smile in Jon's eyes was gone.
He slowly dipped his head, still holding onto her arms.
Inches away from her face.
'I want you.' He whispered.
She couldn't reply just lifted her head up, impatient.
Wanting his lips on hers. Wanting to feel the softness again.
Jon sensed this and avoided her lips, choosing to kiss a trail down her neck instead.
He released her from his grip so he could bring his hand to her waist.
Sneaking it up under her shirt.
His hand could curl halfway around her tiny waist.
She shuddered under his light touch, arching beneath him.
Their breathing was becoming faster and shorter as Jon continued to kiss her.
Finally he broke contact and looked at her.
She looked up into those pale blue pools and begged him silently.
He finally sucummed and brought his lips to hers.
Finally getting what she needed, she found it wasn't enough.
Deepening the kiss they took all they could from each other, months of tension pouring out.
She brought her hands to the hem of his shirt, pulling it up, only getting as far as his chin because he wouldn't break the kiss.
Pulling away for a matter of seconds he dragged the t-shirt off the rest of the way.
Lying himself gently back onto her body he rested on his elbows. Eager to return to where he had left off.
Ruby wriggled beneath him getting comfortable on the hard floor. Inadvertantly rubbing her thigh between his legs causing him to groan into her mouth.
'Jesus. I'm burning up.' She said as he parted from her lips for a moment.
'I could help you out there.' Jon said with a smirk. His voice was deeper than usual.
He eased back onto his knees and quickly got to work unbuttoning her shirt.
Soon enough her shirt was off.
'Have i ever said that you are stunning?' He asked.
Ruby just blushed, not that he would notice her cheeks were already red.
Suddenly there was a knocking at the door, 'You ready Jon?'
It was Richie.
'Shit.' Jon swore as he leapt up. Grabbing his t shirt he pulled it over his head.
'Fuck.' Jon swore again. 'Sorry babe.'
Ruby quickly got up and rearranged her clothing before quickly escaping to the bathroom.
***
Standing infront of the mirror she looked at her reflection.
Her lips were swollen and bright red from their kissing. And her face and chest were flushed.
Jesus that was intense.
She washed her face trying to cool down.
She heard Richie calling out, 'Shorty you coming or what?'
No. Thanks to you. She chuckled to herself.
'Be out in a minute!' She replied.
'Wow.' She was light headed and unsteady on her feet.
'Hey babe how much have you had to drink?'
'Enough...can we do that again?' She leaned forward and put her arms round his neck.
'You have no idea how much i'd like to do that all night babe. But i don't want you to regret anything tomorrow.'
'I wouldn't regret you.'
Jon smiled 'Come on let's get you back to the hotel.'
----------------------
Jon turned the coffee machine on before creeping quietly into her room.
Tip-toeing to the curtains he quickly whipped them open and let the blinding sun into the room.
'Wakey wakey rise and shine, it's beautiful day.'
'I hate you!.' she shouted before pulling the covers up over her head.
He bounced onto the bed beside her.
'I know you love me really' he said with a pout.
'You wish.' she said, but she couldn't hold her laugh in.
'You want coffee?' Jon asked as he started to get up.
She pulled the covers down from her face, squinting in the sun.
Even hungover she is gorgeous he thought.
She had sleepy eyes half open, and her hair was a mess reminding him of his own in the eightes. He couldn't help but laugh.
'Even though you laughed at me, i will love you if you bring coffee.'
Jon came back into the room with a tray of bacon sandwiches and a pot of coffee.
Ruby had composed herself slightly, run a brush through her hair and washed her face.
'A sight for sore eyes.' She said.
Jon cocked an eyebrow.
'.......Breakfast i mean.'
He wore a Giants football jersey and an old torn pair of jeans that were barely decent. They had holes so you could see the pockets beneath the denim. When he sat down with the tray she felt she had to avert her eyes.
'I hear fat is the way forward for a hangover.' He said pouring the coffee and passing one over.
'I don't think i can bear to eat.' She said crinkling her nose up.
'Aww i even brought that brown sauce english people like....well i asked the concierge to bring it anyway.'
'Well if the concierge brought it i will have to have some.....' she said taking a plate from him. '....he's cute.'
Jon laughed.
------------------------
The tour went on through Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Wilkes Barre in Pennsylvania. Before rolling into East Rutherford, New Jersey.
They pulled up to the Continental Airlines Arena just before two. Early soundcheck and then a short time to do interviews. This was their 'hometown gig' so there was more press than usual.
Jon and Ruby had been getting along famously. And it had not gone un-noticed.
'So kid what's going on between you and the old man?' David nudged her once Jon was out of earshot.
'Mind your own Curly.' She joked back with him.
'Aww come on i'm all out of gossip here. Richie is all happily ever after with Mrs. Hollywood. He's my usual source.'
'We're friends. Like each other's company. Is that too much for you to understand? Sorry Dave you aren't gonna find your gossip fix here.'
She looked over to where Jon was recording a radio interview. He caught her eye and smiled that smile. The smile that sold a million records.
Yep just friends. She thought.
****
Later after soundcheck the band were back at their respective hotel rooms.
'There's so much waiting around i've noticed.' Ruby was sat on the couch flicking through the TV channels.
Jon sighed. 'Yeah can get a bit tedious, sitting in a hotel room for hours on end.'
'And American TV sucks! There is never anything good on.'
'Stop!' Jon shouted suddenly.
Ruby looked up but continued flicking.
'There was Football go back!'
'No. Way. Football sucks! It's not even football...'
'Gimme the remote!' Jon held his hand out to her.
She just shuffled further away from him on the couch and held it behind her.
'Right i warned ya! I'm taking it.'
Jon moved onto his knees on the long L-shaped couch and crawled towards her.
'Get away we don't have time for football.'
Jon came ever closer.
'There's always time for football.'
He was right in front of her now. She was sat cross legged her back against the arm rest of the couch still holding the remote behind her.
'How am i going to get that back hmm?' Jon said putting an arm either side of her bottom. Leaning in he softly kissed her on the lips.
She closed her eyes and moved in to deepen the kiss.
'Ha got ya!.' Jon quick as a flash reached behind her and snatched back the controller.
'No fair!.' She said lurching forward as Jon backed off, determined not to lose.
As she reached to get the remote she lost balance and fell forward onto Jon sending them toppling off the side of the couch onto the floor.
'Oww, crazy woman!.' Jon said laughing.
She had fallen on top of him.
Jon rubbed his head where he had banged it on the wooden floor boards. And Ruby took the opportunity to take back the remote.
Jon rolled them both over so he was ontop. He pinned her arms to the floor, their legs were entwined, he looked down at her.
'There is no escape now.'
She looked up smiling, 'Oh i'm quite happy where i am.'
Suddenly the smile in Jon's eyes was gone.
He slowly dipped his head, still holding onto her arms.
Inches away from her face.
'I want you.' He whispered.
She couldn't reply just lifted her head up, impatient.
Wanting his lips on hers. Wanting to feel the softness again.
Jon sensed this and avoided her lips, choosing to kiss a trail down her neck instead.
He released her from his grip so he could bring his hand to her waist.
Sneaking it up under her shirt.
His hand could curl halfway around her tiny waist.
She shuddered under his light touch, arching beneath him.
Their breathing was becoming faster and shorter as Jon continued to kiss her.
Finally he broke contact and looked at her.
She looked up into those pale blue pools and begged him silently.
He finally sucummed and brought his lips to hers.
Finally getting what she needed, she found it wasn't enough.
Deepening the kiss they took all they could from each other, months of tension pouring out.
She brought her hands to the hem of his shirt, pulling it up, only getting as far as his chin because he wouldn't break the kiss.
Pulling away for a matter of seconds he dragged the t-shirt off the rest of the way.
Lying himself gently back onto her body he rested on his elbows. Eager to return to where he had left off.
Ruby wriggled beneath him getting comfortable on the hard floor. Inadvertantly rubbing her thigh between his legs causing him to groan into her mouth.
'Jesus. I'm burning up.' She said as he parted from her lips for a moment.
'I could help you out there.' Jon said with a smirk. His voice was deeper than usual.
He eased back onto his knees and quickly got to work unbuttoning her shirt.
Soon enough her shirt was off.
'Have i ever said that you are stunning?' He asked.
Ruby just blushed, not that he would notice her cheeks were already red.
Suddenly there was a knocking at the door, 'You ready Jon?'
It was Richie.
'Shit.' Jon swore as he leapt up. Grabbing his t shirt he pulled it over his head.
'Fuck.' Jon swore again. 'Sorry babe.'
Ruby quickly got up and rearranged her clothing before quickly escaping to the bathroom.
***
Standing infront of the mirror she looked at her reflection.
Her lips were swollen and bright red from their kissing. And her face and chest were flushed.
Jesus that was intense.
She washed her face trying to cool down.
She heard Richie calling out, 'Shorty you coming or what?'
No. Thanks to you. She chuckled to herself.
'Be out in a minute!' She replied.
Friday 10 October 2008
Chapter 22: Birthday in Boston.
Fort Lauderdale was the location for the second gig on the US tour.
Ruby had been assigned to wardrobe duty. She was to help Sandy with costume changes and the like. Sandy was Jon's wardrobe lady and general assitant. Or dogsbody as she put it.
She was probably about thirty, brunette hair, taller than Ruby about the same height as Jon. Ruby liked her, they hit it off straight away.
Sandy had taken Ruby under her wing. She was pleased of the female company for a change, it was a largely male crew that worked for the band, and of course the band were all guys too.
--------------------
Next stop was Boston Massachusetts. Ruby was beginning to forget where she was with each passing day, as she arrived in her third hotel in as many days. Always the best hotels, she had no mind to complain.
Her and Jon always stayed in a suite, two bedrooms and a living area between them was the set up.
'Would you mind if i rang my parents? I should check in really.'
Jon shook his head 'You don't have to ask.'
She picked up the cordless phone and walked to the balcony, it was brisk outside, but then it was November.
Typing in her parent's telephone number she got an automated message saying they couldn't connect the call.
'Jon....' she shouted through the doors 'it's not working!'
'Did you put 44 first?'
Jon heard her say 'Shit' and he just chuckled to himself.
'Mum is that you?'
'Ruby? Where the hell have you been? We have been at our wits end!'
'I'm...i'm sorry i forgot to ring i guess.'
'But where are you?'
'Listen don't get cross okay? You promise?'
Her mother didn't respond and Ruby figured she wasn't going to get an answer to that.
'I'm in America.'
She moved the handset away from her ear as her mother practically shouted 'AMERICA?' Back at her.
'I'm with Jon. He invited me over to tour with them a bit.'
'What about university? Why didn't you tell us? We were so worried when we couldn't get hold of you.'
She could hear her mum was barely taking a breath between each sentence. She sounded really angry, Ruby was glad she wasn't in the same country.
'Listen to me i am so sorry i worried you. I just didn't want to disappoint you. You kept saying how proud of me you were, with uni and everything...But i just felt so snowed under. I tried i really did...' She felt the tears run down her cheek as she began to cry.
Her mum could hear the change in her voice, the slight quiver. She knew she was crying.
'Oh Ruby. We didn't mean to put pressure on you. We just want what is best. And when we couldn't get hold of you on monday to ask if you wanted to come home for your birthday....'
'My birthday?' She asked, realising she didn't actually know when it was.
'Yes.....today. Twenty years old today.'
'I...I didn't know.'
'Happy birthday Ruby. Look i'm not cross...'
'Yes you are.'
'Well okay i am but you are an adult, and i know things haven't been easy. But if you called every so often just to let us know? The important things, like leaving the country. We are still your parents, your family.'
'You are. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to....'
She sat down on the metal chair that was on the balcony and just clutched the phone to her chest. She brought her knees up putting her feet on the seat of the chair.
She gazed out at the Boston skyline, across the public garden and lagoon.
Twenty years old today.
***
Jon noticed she had been out there a while, he looked up from the television to see her sat on the chair all huddled up.
He grabbed the blanket off the couch as he walked to the balcony doors.
'Hey. It's freezing out here.' he said as he stepped out onto the balcony.
'The fresh air is nice.'
She seemed distant.
'Here.' Jon wrapped the blanket over her shoulders, she gratefully took the corners and pulled it tightly around.
She didn't look up from the view.
He crouched down in front of her.
'Want to talk about it?'
'Jon how old do you think i am?'
Confused he asked 'why?'
'I just wondered.'
'Early twenties i'd say.'
'Twenty.'
'Twenty?' Jon stood as his legs had begun to stiffen up in the chill.
'Yep twenty...exactly. Give or take a few hours.'
'You mean it's your birthday?'
She nodded 'Today.'
'Well we should do something! tonight after the gig.'
'That sounds nice.'
-----------------
That night at the gig Sandy could tell something was up. Ruby was usually chatting away, asking questions, but today she was quiet.
They were in Jon's dressing room making sure his outfits were arranged in order for his changes. He only had a short amount of time to make the change so they had to be right to hand when he needed them.
'Roo. Let's take a break eh?' She said.
Sandy walked out to the fire escape to have a cigarette, Ruby followed having poured two cups of coffee from the pot.
'What's up girl? And don't say nothing, let's cut to the chase.'
Ruby laughed. 'You don't miss much do you?'
'Not lately.' She smiled sipping her coffee.
'I don't know. I found out it's my birthday today and it sort of get's you thinking doesn't it? About ages...and stuff.'
'You lost me now girl. Usually i just think shit another year gone and check for wrinkles in the mirror.'
They both laughed.
Just being around Sandy could cheer anyone up Ruby decided.
'Don't get too seious you hear?' Sandy said stubbing her cigarette out on the wall.
'You're too young to be brooding like this. Screw the consequences, you are on tour with a band live it up a little.'
----------------
The show had run smoothly, Ruby watched from the side of the stage when she wasn't needed by Sandy. She loved watching the band on stage. It was like watching a well oiled machine. Each of them knew the songs like the back of their hand but still seemed to love performing them for their fans.
And when it went well like tonight everyone was in good spirits.
That night all the band members, Ruby, Sandy and other road crew went out in Boston.
Even though she was underage as she walked into a bar, because she was with Jon Bon Jovi no one asked for ID.
Jon, Richie, David, Ruby and Sandy all squeezed into one booth in a dark corner of the bar. Tico joined them shortly after bringing a bottle of champagne.
'Happy birthday Shorts.' He said in his gruff voice as he set about popping the cork.
'Thanks Tico.' she smiled. She was a little overwhelmed at being the centre of attention.
Tico poured everyone a glass and everyone round the table called for a speech.
'Hey it's my birthday i shouldn't have to.. i don't want to!' She tried to protest.
'Come on darlin that's exactly why you have to.' Richie said.
'Come on i'm gagging for a drink!' David piped in.
'Okay okay. Well i guess i wanna say thanks to you guys for inviting me over it's been fun. And well i can honestly say this is the best birthday party i can remember!'
Everyone fell around laughing.
After they had finished that first bottle Tico excused himself to go have a cigar outside, Sandy joined him.
The others decided amongst themselves to join them outside and move on to a club.
***
'Wanna dance?' She asked.
It was later on in the night, this was the third club they had been in, and there had been plenty of drinking at each. Some of the group had made their way back to the hotel, the rest were sat around another table talking amongst themselves.
'Oh i don't dance.' Jon replied.
'You lie. You do. You danced with me.' She pouted.
'That was a one off.'
Jon seemed to be cool towards her.
She held out her hand to Richie.
'Surely i won't get turned down twice in one night?'
'No way darlin.' Richie said as he stood taking her hand, 'Turn down the prettiest girl in the place?'
He was such a smooth talker, and so laid back. The opposite to Jon who was like a rollercoaster. One minute he was giving you his undivided attention the next he was all distant and sulky.
'What the hell is up with him?' She said in Richie's ear as they took to the dance floor. She had to say it loud to be heard over the music.
'God knows. He gets like that when he's got something on his mind. It's like his brain can't do two things, be civil and think at the same time.'
'I don't care i bet you are a much better dancer anyway.' She said as she reached her arms up and placed them on his shoulders.
Jon watched them from the booth. He was sat at the far side facing the dancefloor, so he could watch them without making it obvious.
He knew he was being an ass.
He watched as Richie bent so she could speak in his ear.
And then as she placed her arms on Richie's shoulders.
He felt jealous, though he had no right to be.
Cursing himself, he got up to go to the bathroom.
The next song started, it was a slow one.
It was one of those clubs where you could tell the night was drawing to a close because the slower songs would be played towards the end of the night. Leaving dancing partners in a lovey dovey mood.
'I like this one' Ruby said as she leaned her head on Richie's chest pulling his arms around her back.
They swayed to the music.
'You had a good birthday?' Richie bent to ask in her ear.
'Yeah. I may regret it tomorrow i think i have had a bit too much bubbles.' she wrinkled up her nose considering the potential hangover.
Richie just laughed she didn't hear it but she felt his chest move under her cheek.
Jon returned from the Men's room to see them slow dancing.
He didn't return to his seat at the booth.
Walking up behind Richie he tapped him on the shoulder.
Richie knew where he wasn't wanted and let Jon cut in.
'Hey' he said as Ruby opened her eyes when she felt Richie leave her.
'I thought you didn't dance.'
'I changed my mind.'
Putting his hand on the small of her back he pulled her towards his chest.
She resumed the position she had taken with Richie. Except Jon was shorter slightly so her head was just below his chin.
He breathed in the scent of her hair as they danced. Some how this contact with her made him feel better.
They danced a while.
'Jon can i ask you a question?' She didn't wait for him to answer. 'Why are you so hot...or lukewarm and cold with me?'
He didn't answer he took her hand and pulled her towards the exit of the club.
***
'It's too loud in there.' he explained.
He manoeuvered them around the corner away from where the people were leaving the club. Away from where they made have been seen.
'Look it's because....'
He didn't finish. Words may have been his career, but writing them and singing them generally were alot easier than actually saying them to someone face to face.
He took her face in his hands and moved towards her.
Looking into those blue eyes that were like a mirror image of his own, he was centimetres from her now. He licked his lips involuntarily just before he met hers.
She didn't say a word. Just let him take her lips.
It was a soft kiss at first. His lips were even softer than she remembered.
She tried to back away at first, but the wall was right behind her.
Before she knew it all thoughts of stopping the kiss had left her mind. His tongue was at her mouth gently teasing it's way in, driving her crazy.
His hands moved up into her hair as he deepened the kiss.
Senses in overdrive her hands just remained by her sides as he was in full control.
Damn he's good at this.
She was at a loss. The connection was almost electric, as if over a month's worth of pent up feelings finally had an outlet.
Her breaths were coming faster and shorter, and then as suddenly as he had started it he pulled away.
Ruby had been assigned to wardrobe duty. She was to help Sandy with costume changes and the like. Sandy was Jon's wardrobe lady and general assitant. Or dogsbody as she put it.
She was probably about thirty, brunette hair, taller than Ruby about the same height as Jon. Ruby liked her, they hit it off straight away.
Sandy had taken Ruby under her wing. She was pleased of the female company for a change, it was a largely male crew that worked for the band, and of course the band were all guys too.
--------------------
Next stop was Boston Massachusetts. Ruby was beginning to forget where she was with each passing day, as she arrived in her third hotel in as many days. Always the best hotels, she had no mind to complain.
Her and Jon always stayed in a suite, two bedrooms and a living area between them was the set up.
'Would you mind if i rang my parents? I should check in really.'
Jon shook his head 'You don't have to ask.'
She picked up the cordless phone and walked to the balcony, it was brisk outside, but then it was November.
Typing in her parent's telephone number she got an automated message saying they couldn't connect the call.
'Jon....' she shouted through the doors 'it's not working!'
'Did you put 44 first?'
Jon heard her say 'Shit' and he just chuckled to himself.
'Mum is that you?'
'Ruby? Where the hell have you been? We have been at our wits end!'
'I'm...i'm sorry i forgot to ring i guess.'
'But where are you?'
'Listen don't get cross okay? You promise?'
Her mother didn't respond and Ruby figured she wasn't going to get an answer to that.
'I'm in America.'
She moved the handset away from her ear as her mother practically shouted 'AMERICA?' Back at her.
'I'm with Jon. He invited me over to tour with them a bit.'
'What about university? Why didn't you tell us? We were so worried when we couldn't get hold of you.'
She could hear her mum was barely taking a breath between each sentence. She sounded really angry, Ruby was glad she wasn't in the same country.
'Listen to me i am so sorry i worried you. I just didn't want to disappoint you. You kept saying how proud of me you were, with uni and everything...But i just felt so snowed under. I tried i really did...' She felt the tears run down her cheek as she began to cry.
Her mum could hear the change in her voice, the slight quiver. She knew she was crying.
'Oh Ruby. We didn't mean to put pressure on you. We just want what is best. And when we couldn't get hold of you on monday to ask if you wanted to come home for your birthday....'
'My birthday?' She asked, realising she didn't actually know when it was.
'Yes.....today. Twenty years old today.'
'I...I didn't know.'
'Happy birthday Ruby. Look i'm not cross...'
'Yes you are.'
'Well okay i am but you are an adult, and i know things haven't been easy. But if you called every so often just to let us know? The important things, like leaving the country. We are still your parents, your family.'
'You are. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to....'
She sat down on the metal chair that was on the balcony and just clutched the phone to her chest. She brought her knees up putting her feet on the seat of the chair.
She gazed out at the Boston skyline, across the public garden and lagoon.
Twenty years old today.
***
Jon noticed she had been out there a while, he looked up from the television to see her sat on the chair all huddled up.
He grabbed the blanket off the couch as he walked to the balcony doors.
'Hey. It's freezing out here.' he said as he stepped out onto the balcony.
'The fresh air is nice.'
She seemed distant.
'Here.' Jon wrapped the blanket over her shoulders, she gratefully took the corners and pulled it tightly around.
She didn't look up from the view.
He crouched down in front of her.
'Want to talk about it?'
'Jon how old do you think i am?'
Confused he asked 'why?'
'I just wondered.'
'Early twenties i'd say.'
'Twenty.'
'Twenty?' Jon stood as his legs had begun to stiffen up in the chill.
'Yep twenty...exactly. Give or take a few hours.'
'You mean it's your birthday?'
She nodded 'Today.'
'Well we should do something! tonight after the gig.'
'That sounds nice.'
-----------------
That night at the gig Sandy could tell something was up. Ruby was usually chatting away, asking questions, but today she was quiet.
They were in Jon's dressing room making sure his outfits were arranged in order for his changes. He only had a short amount of time to make the change so they had to be right to hand when he needed them.
'Roo. Let's take a break eh?' She said.
Sandy walked out to the fire escape to have a cigarette, Ruby followed having poured two cups of coffee from the pot.
'What's up girl? And don't say nothing, let's cut to the chase.'
Ruby laughed. 'You don't miss much do you?'
'Not lately.' She smiled sipping her coffee.
'I don't know. I found out it's my birthday today and it sort of get's you thinking doesn't it? About ages...and stuff.'
'You lost me now girl. Usually i just think shit another year gone and check for wrinkles in the mirror.'
They both laughed.
Just being around Sandy could cheer anyone up Ruby decided.
'Don't get too seious you hear?' Sandy said stubbing her cigarette out on the wall.
'You're too young to be brooding like this. Screw the consequences, you are on tour with a band live it up a little.'
----------------
The show had run smoothly, Ruby watched from the side of the stage when she wasn't needed by Sandy. She loved watching the band on stage. It was like watching a well oiled machine. Each of them knew the songs like the back of their hand but still seemed to love performing them for their fans.
And when it went well like tonight everyone was in good spirits.
That night all the band members, Ruby, Sandy and other road crew went out in Boston.
Even though she was underage as she walked into a bar, because she was with Jon Bon Jovi no one asked for ID.
Jon, Richie, David, Ruby and Sandy all squeezed into one booth in a dark corner of the bar. Tico joined them shortly after bringing a bottle of champagne.
'Happy birthday Shorts.' He said in his gruff voice as he set about popping the cork.
'Thanks Tico.' she smiled. She was a little overwhelmed at being the centre of attention.
Tico poured everyone a glass and everyone round the table called for a speech.
'Hey it's my birthday i shouldn't have to.. i don't want to!' She tried to protest.
'Come on darlin that's exactly why you have to.' Richie said.
'Come on i'm gagging for a drink!' David piped in.
'Okay okay. Well i guess i wanna say thanks to you guys for inviting me over it's been fun. And well i can honestly say this is the best birthday party i can remember!'
Everyone fell around laughing.
After they had finished that first bottle Tico excused himself to go have a cigar outside, Sandy joined him.
The others decided amongst themselves to join them outside and move on to a club.
***
'Wanna dance?' She asked.
It was later on in the night, this was the third club they had been in, and there had been plenty of drinking at each. Some of the group had made their way back to the hotel, the rest were sat around another table talking amongst themselves.
'Oh i don't dance.' Jon replied.
'You lie. You do. You danced with me.' She pouted.
'That was a one off.'
Jon seemed to be cool towards her.
She held out her hand to Richie.
'Surely i won't get turned down twice in one night?'
'No way darlin.' Richie said as he stood taking her hand, 'Turn down the prettiest girl in the place?'
He was such a smooth talker, and so laid back. The opposite to Jon who was like a rollercoaster. One minute he was giving you his undivided attention the next he was all distant and sulky.
'What the hell is up with him?' She said in Richie's ear as they took to the dance floor. She had to say it loud to be heard over the music.
'God knows. He gets like that when he's got something on his mind. It's like his brain can't do two things, be civil and think at the same time.'
'I don't care i bet you are a much better dancer anyway.' She said as she reached her arms up and placed them on his shoulders.
Jon watched them from the booth. He was sat at the far side facing the dancefloor, so he could watch them without making it obvious.
He knew he was being an ass.
He watched as Richie bent so she could speak in his ear.
And then as she placed her arms on Richie's shoulders.
He felt jealous, though he had no right to be.
Cursing himself, he got up to go to the bathroom.
The next song started, it was a slow one.
It was one of those clubs where you could tell the night was drawing to a close because the slower songs would be played towards the end of the night. Leaving dancing partners in a lovey dovey mood.
'I like this one' Ruby said as she leaned her head on Richie's chest pulling his arms around her back.
They swayed to the music.
'You had a good birthday?' Richie bent to ask in her ear.
'Yeah. I may regret it tomorrow i think i have had a bit too much bubbles.' she wrinkled up her nose considering the potential hangover.
Richie just laughed she didn't hear it but she felt his chest move under her cheek.
Jon returned from the Men's room to see them slow dancing.
He didn't return to his seat at the booth.
Walking up behind Richie he tapped him on the shoulder.
Richie knew where he wasn't wanted and let Jon cut in.
'Hey' he said as Ruby opened her eyes when she felt Richie leave her.
'I thought you didn't dance.'
'I changed my mind.'
Putting his hand on the small of her back he pulled her towards his chest.
She resumed the position she had taken with Richie. Except Jon was shorter slightly so her head was just below his chin.
He breathed in the scent of her hair as they danced. Some how this contact with her made him feel better.
They danced a while.
'Jon can i ask you a question?' She didn't wait for him to answer. 'Why are you so hot...or lukewarm and cold with me?'
He didn't answer he took her hand and pulled her towards the exit of the club.
***
'It's too loud in there.' he explained.
He manoeuvered them around the corner away from where the people were leaving the club. Away from where they made have been seen.
'Look it's because....'
He didn't finish. Words may have been his career, but writing them and singing them generally were alot easier than actually saying them to someone face to face.
He took her face in his hands and moved towards her.
Looking into those blue eyes that were like a mirror image of his own, he was centimetres from her now. He licked his lips involuntarily just before he met hers.
She didn't say a word. Just let him take her lips.
It was a soft kiss at first. His lips were even softer than she remembered.
She tried to back away at first, but the wall was right behind her.
Before she knew it all thoughts of stopping the kiss had left her mind. His tongue was at her mouth gently teasing it's way in, driving her crazy.
His hands moved up into her hair as he deepened the kiss.
Senses in overdrive her hands just remained by her sides as he was in full control.
Damn he's good at this.
She was at a loss. The connection was almost electric, as if over a month's worth of pent up feelings finally had an outlet.
Her breaths were coming faster and shorter, and then as suddenly as he had started it he pulled away.
Thursday 2 October 2008
Chapter 21: Charlotte.
A couple of days later the band were back on the road.
'Welcome to Charlotte.' Jon said the car approached the arena.
'So whats the schedule for tonight?' Ruby asked.
'Well i figured as it's your first show...that you remember anyway! You can just watch and enjoy.'
'Sounds good. I've been doing my homework.'
Jon turned towards her to see her grin.
'Well? What do you think? I mean you have good taste...so..'
She considered it for a moment. 'You have written some fantastic songs. One album really hit me though. These Days. It's such a contrast to the earlier stuff. You made a damn good record there.'
Jon smiled. 'Thanks, that means alot. Especially on that record.' Jon turned away again to look out of the window.
After a few moments Ruby spoke again.
'Don't get me wrong i like the other stuff too! Just that one struck a chord.'
She sensed that his demeanour had changed suddenly.
'Thanks.'
***
'Richie, Ruby. Ruby, Richie.' Jon said as he started the long round of introductions that would have to be done.
'I prefer Shorty though....' She started.
She held out her hand for Richie to take, which he did. Only to pull her into a hug.
'I remember this chick! I never forget the best lookin girl at a party.'
She could feel herself go all kinds of red at his comment.
'I like you already.'
'Feelin is mutual darlin. Come with me, The Lord of the manor here has got to prepare.' He said in a mock english accent before placing his hands in a meditation pose.
'Take a hike jerk.' Jon laughed. 'I'll see ya in a bit. And Richie! be good.'
'Oh i'm always good Jonny my man.' Richie replied putting an arm around Ruby.
That's what i'm afraid of Jon thought rolling his eyes at his friend.
***
By seven o'clock she had been given the full backstage tour and was sat waiting for the show. Jon had given her a front row ticket, but she didn't want to take the place a die hard fan would cherish. So she gave her ticket to someone she found in the nosebleeds and got a massive hug and undying gratitude in the bargain.
Flashing her access all areas pass the sound techs gladly allowed her to sit at the end of the soundstage.
When the band finally came out she had a good view of the stage.
***
They kicked off the show with One Wild Night.
Jon spent the entire song distracted. The seat he had given to her was occupied by someone else.
But Richie had shot him a look or two that said 'Get on your game.' And being the professional that he was he did just that.
***
After the little break they had started the encore with Next 100 Years, this was usually followed by Jon's little speech to introduce Richie.
Instead he took the microphone and whispered 'This is for you'.
He pointed at the crowd but his eyes remained closed.
"Sometimes in our lives we all have pain
We all have sorrow
But if we are wise
We know that there's always tomorrow"
It was semi-whispered but beautiful. Jon held onto the microphone stand, his eyes closed through the whole verse.
Richie looked across at David, then to Tico and Hugh...they all just shrugged at him. None of them had any that idea Jon was going to do this cover.
"Lean on me, when you're not strong
And I'll be your friend
I'll help you carry on
For it won't be long
'Til I'm gonna need
Somebody to lean on"
After the first line of the chorus Richie joined in singing followed by the rest of the band. David knew the music off by heart, and played along on his keyboards. Besides the fact they had played it a couple of times before it was also one of his favourite songs.
Jon just looked around at his band, his friends, with a beaming smile on his face.
"Please swallow your pride
If I have things you need to borrow
For no one can fill those of your needs
That you don't let show
Lean on me, when you're not strong
And I'll be your friend
I'll help you carry on
For it won't be long
'Til I'm gonna need
Somebody to lean on
If there is a load you have to bear
That you can't carry
I'm right up the road
I'll share your load
If you just call me"
After this verse Jon gave the signal and Richie started the intro to I'll Be There For You. Jon patted him on the shoulder and left the stage to give Richie his time to shine.
***
Ruby was sat on the soundstage with tears brimming in her eyes.
Maybe she was deluded but she felt that it was for her.
----------------
'Where did you get to?'
Jon had just walked into the backstage area where family, friends, crew and the band always gathered after the show.
'And hello to you! I was sat on the soundstage.' Ruby replied getting herself a drink of coffee.
'Soundstage? What were you doing up there.'
'Well i gave my seat away to someone in the nosebleeds. I think she loves me more than her own mother now!' She laughed.
Jon just smiled. Beautiful, smart, kind...
They walked over to a seating area where the rest of the band sat.
'Well? What did you think?'
'I think.....I shouldn't have given that ticket away. Amazing.'
Jon was taken aback. 'Really?' Wow you hear this Rich? We've still got it!'
Richie cheered and shouted back 'Never doubted that my man!'
Jon sat at the end of the couch, the other end was occupied by Richie. Ruby sat on an armchair at right angles to where Jon was sat.
'I really loved the Bill Withers cover.' She didn't look up from the cup she held in her hands.
'I'm glad, i just felt it was appropriate somehow....'
She looked up to meet his eyes, she was certain now that it was for her.
'Thanks.'
The little exchange had not gone un-noticed by Richie.
Their mannerisms towards each other. How they were laughing and joking with each other one minute and having quiet little chats the next.
Work experience, that's what they call it these days eh?
'Welcome to Charlotte.' Jon said the car approached the arena.
'So whats the schedule for tonight?' Ruby asked.
'Well i figured as it's your first show...that you remember anyway! You can just watch and enjoy.'
'Sounds good. I've been doing my homework.'
Jon turned towards her to see her grin.
'Well? What do you think? I mean you have good taste...so..'
She considered it for a moment. 'You have written some fantastic songs. One album really hit me though. These Days. It's such a contrast to the earlier stuff. You made a damn good record there.'
Jon smiled. 'Thanks, that means alot. Especially on that record.' Jon turned away again to look out of the window.
After a few moments Ruby spoke again.
'Don't get me wrong i like the other stuff too! Just that one struck a chord.'
She sensed that his demeanour had changed suddenly.
'Thanks.'
***
'Richie, Ruby. Ruby, Richie.' Jon said as he started the long round of introductions that would have to be done.
'I prefer Shorty though....' She started.
She held out her hand for Richie to take, which he did. Only to pull her into a hug.
'I remember this chick! I never forget the best lookin girl at a party.'
She could feel herself go all kinds of red at his comment.
'I like you already.'
'Feelin is mutual darlin. Come with me, The Lord of the manor here has got to prepare.' He said in a mock english accent before placing his hands in a meditation pose.
'Take a hike jerk.' Jon laughed. 'I'll see ya in a bit. And Richie! be good.'
'Oh i'm always good Jonny my man.' Richie replied putting an arm around Ruby.
That's what i'm afraid of Jon thought rolling his eyes at his friend.
***
By seven o'clock she had been given the full backstage tour and was sat waiting for the show. Jon had given her a front row ticket, but she didn't want to take the place a die hard fan would cherish. So she gave her ticket to someone she found in the nosebleeds and got a massive hug and undying gratitude in the bargain.
Flashing her access all areas pass the sound techs gladly allowed her to sit at the end of the soundstage.
When the band finally came out she had a good view of the stage.
***
They kicked off the show with One Wild Night.
Jon spent the entire song distracted. The seat he had given to her was occupied by someone else.
But Richie had shot him a look or two that said 'Get on your game.' And being the professional that he was he did just that.
***
After the little break they had started the encore with Next 100 Years, this was usually followed by Jon's little speech to introduce Richie.
Instead he took the microphone and whispered 'This is for you'.
He pointed at the crowd but his eyes remained closed.
"Sometimes in our lives we all have pain
We all have sorrow
But if we are wise
We know that there's always tomorrow"
It was semi-whispered but beautiful. Jon held onto the microphone stand, his eyes closed through the whole verse.
Richie looked across at David, then to Tico and Hugh...they all just shrugged at him. None of them had any that idea Jon was going to do this cover.
"Lean on me, when you're not strong
And I'll be your friend
I'll help you carry on
For it won't be long
'Til I'm gonna need
Somebody to lean on"
After the first line of the chorus Richie joined in singing followed by the rest of the band. David knew the music off by heart, and played along on his keyboards. Besides the fact they had played it a couple of times before it was also one of his favourite songs.
Jon just looked around at his band, his friends, with a beaming smile on his face.
"Please swallow your pride
If I have things you need to borrow
For no one can fill those of your needs
That you don't let show
Lean on me, when you're not strong
And I'll be your friend
I'll help you carry on
For it won't be long
'Til I'm gonna need
Somebody to lean on
If there is a load you have to bear
That you can't carry
I'm right up the road
I'll share your load
If you just call me"
After this verse Jon gave the signal and Richie started the intro to I'll Be There For You. Jon patted him on the shoulder and left the stage to give Richie his time to shine.
***
Ruby was sat on the soundstage with tears brimming in her eyes.
Maybe she was deluded but she felt that it was for her.
----------------
'Where did you get to?'
Jon had just walked into the backstage area where family, friends, crew and the band always gathered after the show.
'And hello to you! I was sat on the soundstage.' Ruby replied getting herself a drink of coffee.
'Soundstage? What were you doing up there.'
'Well i gave my seat away to someone in the nosebleeds. I think she loves me more than her own mother now!' She laughed.
Jon just smiled. Beautiful, smart, kind...
They walked over to a seating area where the rest of the band sat.
'Well? What did you think?'
'I think.....I shouldn't have given that ticket away. Amazing.'
Jon was taken aback. 'Really?' Wow you hear this Rich? We've still got it!'
Richie cheered and shouted back 'Never doubted that my man!'
Jon sat at the end of the couch, the other end was occupied by Richie. Ruby sat on an armchair at right angles to where Jon was sat.
'I really loved the Bill Withers cover.' She didn't look up from the cup she held in her hands.
'I'm glad, i just felt it was appropriate somehow....'
She looked up to meet his eyes, she was certain now that it was for her.
'Thanks.'
The little exchange had not gone un-noticed by Richie.
Their mannerisms towards each other. How they were laughing and joking with each other one minute and having quiet little chats the next.
Work experience, that's what they call it these days eh?
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