Inked Chaos (13 page)

“Yes, you do.  Has he or has he not been
chasing you for weeks? Yes he has, but that’s not the point here.  The point is
that it’s all lies honey, he hasn’t seen her in months.”

“Look Jen honestly, I’m not going to stress
over it.  If I do that, then Steven Lemont has won.  I’ll wait till AJ comes
back, we’ll talk about it then.”

“Oh, okay.  I’ll see you in the morning
honey.  Please don’t be brooding about this; promise me.”

“I promise.” I’d replied, and we’d said our
farewells and hung up.  Then I had made myself more comfortable on the sofa,
switched on a movie and waited for AJ to arrive home.

Only AJ didn’t come home.  Well, not before
I went to bed at two a.m. anyway.

The show finished at ten, so giving him
time to remove stage make-up, have his say with the producers about the fiasco
of the interview, and his drive home, he should have been back by midnight, or
twelve thirty at the latest.  So I’d given up and gone to bed.  My bed.  Not
because I was annoyed, but because I just didn’t know how he would feel about
coming home, and finding me in his bed.

I’d found out exactly how he felt about me
not being in his bed at three thirty a.m.; when I was startled awake, as I was
hoisted out of my own bed, and ceremoniously carried across the hallway to his
room and placed into his bed.

“AJ?” I’d asked sleepily.

“Shush, go back to sleep, it’s late.  We’ll
talk in the morning.” He’d then proceeded to climb into bed, pulled me towards
him so my back was to his front, and with his arms around me, linking his hands
with my own, he’d gently kissed my shoulder.  With a sleepy smile, I squeezed
his hand and promptly fell back to sleep.

*****

On wakening, the first thing I was aware of,
is that I had woken up in the same position as I went to sleep; with AJ wrapped
around me from behind.  For several moments I just lay there enjoying the sensation
of having his arms around me, and the warmth of his body seeping into my own.

Tilting my head, I’d glanced at the clock
on the bedside cabinet.  Seeing as it was only eight a.m., I tried to lie as
still as possible, so as to not wake AJ.  This plan however, soon went out of
the window when his arms tightened around me, and he nuzzled into my neck and my
shoulder.

“Don’t know why you were over there, don’t
want to know.  What
you
should know, is that you should have been in
here in
our
bed.  You should also know, that after spending hours
arguing with Casey on the phone about suing that asshole; the only thing that
kept me going, was knowing I was coming home to you in
our
bed.  So
finding you not in
our
bed, but the
guest
bed, is not something I
was too happy about babe.”

Turning me towards him so I was lying on my
back, he’d covered my body with his own.  Resting on his elbows, his hands
gently stroking my cheek, he’d slowly lowered his head and kissed me deeply,
taking my breath away and making my body tingle.  Feeling my own body stirring
in response, I became aware of his morning erection pressing into my stomach, and
needing to talk to him, it had taken all my willpower to break the kiss, by
turning my head to the side.

“AJ stop.” I’d whispered softly, turning to
look into his eyes. “Let me explain.”

Opening his mouth to speak, I’d placed my
fingers against his mouth.

“Please.”

Looking down at me AJ said nothing, but
kept eye contact as lowering my hand I began to speak.

“I didn’t know whether you would mind me
sleeping in your bed.” AJ went to interrupt, so I’d once again lifted my hand
to his mouth, and raised my eyebrows questioningly.  Seeing his capitulation, I’d
continued with what I thought a very valid reason for my actions.  

“Look at it from my point of view.  Yesterday
was the first time we’ve slept together.  We have been together such a short
time, and I have yet to learn a lot about you, as you do me.  It’s been quite a
while since I…….well, let’s just say, have been in this situation.  I didn’t
know the best way to handle it.  So I kind of plumped for the safe option and
chose my room.”

Finishing my explanation, I’d lay there
staring at him, waiting for him to speak.  Watching the emotions running over
his face, starting with disbelief to annoyance and finally to serious
determination.  

“Okay, let me explain how this works or
rather how I work.” He’d began. “I took you to my bed.  That’s
my
bed,
not your bed, not a hotel room but
my
bed.  That means something.  It
means you’re not a temporary fixture in my life.  It means, you mean something
to me.  Damn it Birdie, for months I’ve been working to get us where we are
now.  You say we haven’t been together long, but from my point of view, this
has been going on for months.  I’m sorry that you didn’t understand that; so
understand me now Birdie.  From this moment on, we are a couple.  It isn’t my
bed, but
our
bed.  My home is yours whenever you are here.  I’m not
saying it’s going to be easy.  You will come to realise that relationships in
my world are hard work.  We also have an extra problem working against us with
the distance, but I’m willing to give this a shot.  Hell!  I’m fighting for
this to happen, and have been for months.  Fighting my workload, the miles we
were apart, and even fighting you, but I feel I’m winning Birdie, and damn it
you are definitely worth fighting for.  So now you know where I stand.  You
tell me, are you up for the fight babe or are you going to throw in the towel
without even trying?”

Once again AJ laid it out on the line,
taking my breath away with his honesty, and dare I say love.  Bereft of speech,
I’d just lay there staring at him, trying to find the words to reply to him,
and all I could come up with was…

“Yes”

“Yeah?” he repeated.
“Yeah, you’re in this with me?”

“Yes.  I’m in this with you.” I’d whispered.
 At my reply, he’d smiled and slowly lowered his head to kiss me.  A kiss
tinged with relief, a kiss that I responded to, with all that I am.  

Once again AJ made love to me, bringing my
body to the heights of unbelievable pleasure, and afterwards, we’d lay entwined,
knowing that we would soon be parted; planning how we would stay in touch, and
meet up when the band came over to England for the tour.  They were to be in
London for only two nights before the tour moves over to Europe.  Only two
nights to catch up on weeks of missing him, of touching him and having his arms
around me.

*****

The time had flown so quickly.  We had only
just showered; together I might add, which as you can imagine delayed us even
further, when Jen had arrived to say goodbye.  She had helped me pack my
things, listening as I had filled her in on spending the last few days with AJ.

“And?” she’d asked,
raising an eyebrow enquiringly.

“And what?” I’d replied, carefully keeping
my face blank, knowing exactly what she was alluding to.  She was after the
nitty-gritty and I was damned if I was going to tell her.  She may be my best
friend, but that is precious between AJ and myself.

“You’re not going to give are you? I know
that expression you’re wearing.  Which means he’s got you hasn’t he honey.”

Raising my head from my packing, with a
glowing smile on my face, I’d looked at her.  Jen saw my smile and broke out
into one of her own, knocking me off balance as she threw her arms around me in
a hug, squeezing her arms so tight I could hardly breathe.

“He’s got me.” I’d confirmed. “Oh Jen he’s
got me good and proper.  It’s only been days, but it feels like forever.  I don’t
know what he’s done to me, but I’m so happy.”

“Oh honey.  I am so pleased for you.  It
might seem quick, but look at Razor and I.  That was even quicker.  Sometimes,
if they are the one it’s just right, and everything falls into place.  So I
guess he’s the one honey, so you grab a hold of your happiness and you hold on
tight, just like I have.”

Jen had helped me finish
packing, and with tears in both our eyes, we had parted company.  She to go
home, and me? Well I had found AJ in the kitchen, standing leaning with his
back against the counter, feet apart, and his arms crossed, gazing down at the
floor.  He’d looked up as I’d walked in, and I’d seen him quickly smooth his
brow of a frown as he gave me a tentative smile.

“I’m ready.” I’d announced, with a wavering
voice, trying hard to remain composed, because I could feel the sting of tears,
and I didn’t want to make a show of myself in front of him.

“Come ‘ere babe.” He’d requested opening
his arms; into which I’d gladly walked.  Enfolding him in my arms, I had held
on tightly as he reciprocated, as he lowered his head to plant his face into
the crook of my neck.  We’d stood quietly holding each other for several
minutes just enjoying the moment, not wanting to break it.  Until AJ, finally lifting
his head, had raised his hand and smoothed my hair behind my ear.

“I’m coming to the airport, but I won’t
come in with you.  It will be better for you if I keep a low profile.  Ross
will come in and see you through security, while I wait in the car with Wade.”

“That’s fine.  I understand, but Tiny
doesn’t need to come in, you can just drop me off, and I can see myself through
to flight side.” I’d offered without thinking.

“Tiny?” he’d questioned.

Me and my mouth!

“Umm, it’s my nickname for Ross.  Please
don’t tell him.  I’d hate for him to be offended.”

AJ threw his head back as his laughter had
filled the room, his body shaking in my arms.

Well, I suppose that lightened the mood, I’d
thought to myself whilst slightly annoyed that he found it so hysterical.

“Well, he’s so… big.” I’d announced coyly. “It
just sort of fitted.  Shush for crying out loud, he’ll hear you.” I’d said
playfully pushing his shoulder.

With a swift kiss on the nose AJ announced:

“You’re precious, truly
precious.  Wait till I tell him.”

Petulantly I’d pursed my lips together, and
proceeded to beg. “Oh no you don’t.  Swear to me that you won’t tell him.  I’d
never be able to look him in the face again if you do.”

“Okay, I won’t tell him, but the thought of
big bad ex-LAPD detective Ross being called Tiny, babe that’s hysterical.  Come
on we’d best get a move on or you’ll miss your flight.” He said as he’d held my
hand and walked me out to the car.

Noticing Tiny had already collected my case,
and was in the process of placing it into the boot of the car.  I’d walked over
and climbed into the back, whilst AJ talked to Tiny and Wade.  I presume giving
them last minute instructions, before he joined me.  Tiny joining Wade in the
front.

Placing his arm around me, as we’d sat
huddled together, I couldn’t resist a last glimpse back at the house as we’d
pulled away.  It would be weeks before I came back, so as we’d driven through
the gates, I’d tried to memorise everything about the house.

Turning around and snuggling into AJs side,
I’d watched through the window as LA drew nearer, as did our parting.  Each of
us silent, deep in our own thoughts.

AJ hooked a finger under my chin and lifted
it towards his own, holding it there, staring down into my eyes for what seemed
an eternity, before he’d lowered his lips to my own.  The kiss had been
tentative, gentle, and sweet, full of longing and of promise.  I lost myself,
returning his kiss, feeling tears pricking beneath my eyelids, as I’d thought
of the weeks to come without him, not knowing how I was going to manage without
seeing him every day.  Yes me Jorgi Morgan.  The woman who never lets a man
beyond her safety defences.  A woman who never thought she would ever have the
chance of something as beautiful as I now have.

AJ wiped a tear from my cheek with his
thumb.

“Don’t Birdie; please don’t cry.  We can do
this, Okay? We will speak every day I swear.  I want this to work, there is no
way I’m going to let you slip away.”

The car came to a halt and I’d glanced out
of the window, to see we had arrived at the departure terminal.  I’d looked
back at AJ to see he too was staring out of the window, as Tiny and Wade exited
the car.  Wade positioning himself by our door, as Tiny walked to the rear of
the car to retrieve my case, before they stood together, obviously giving us time
alone to say goodbye.  Which AJ did by kissing me thoroughly, his arms locked
around me.

Raising his head, I saw he too was struggling
with his emotions.  The parting affecting him just as much as myself, something
I hadn’t considered at all.

“I’m not going to say goodbye.  There’s a
finality to that word.  I’ll see you soon Birdie.  Let me know when you land,
and when you reach home; promise me?”

Unable to speak, I’d just nodded my head,
and knowing if I hadn’t left him then I never would, I’d given him a quick hard
peck on his lips and opened the door leaving him behind.

Without looking back, I’d walked towards
the entrance of the airport.  Tiny at my side pulling my case behind him.

Locating my check-in desk, I’d waited in
line for my turn with Tiny beside me.  I thought it was silly him waiting with
me, thinking he may as well go back to the car.  I was more than capable of checking
in by myself, and I told him so, imagining he would be relieved. 

“That’s okay, Miss Morgan I have my
instructions.” He’d replied.

I’d looked at him in astonishment.  Surely
AJ wouldn’t mind if he’d left me there?

“Ross I’m nearly at the head of the queue,
it won’t matter, and please I’ve asked you to call me Jorgi.”

“AJ wants me to stick with you until you go
through security in case of any paparazzi, and I’ll make a deal with you, I’ll
call you Jorgi if you call me Tiny.” He’d smirked.

I’d muttered a threat to kill AJ! I couldn’t
believe he’d told Tiny my nickname for him, and I’d verbally informed Tiny of
the fact.  To which Tiny informed me that he actually liked it, and he was
going to ask everyone to call him by it.  I’d stared at him dumbfounded.  In
fact, I’d stared at him so long I didn’t hear the girl at the check-in desk
calling me, until Tiny nudged his head in that direction to let me know.  Apologising
profusely, I’d walked up to the desk and handed over my passport and ticket, moments
later being struck dumb when she’d informed me that I was in first class, and
pointed me in the direction of the first class lounge.

Not even bothering to argue that she’d made
a mistake.  I’d looked up at Tiny and with a query asked “AJ?” To which with an
affirmative nod, he’d taken hold of my elbow, as we started walking in the
direction the check-in girl had directed us.

Moments later we were standing in the
entrance way to the lounge saying our farewells.

“Bye Jorgi.  Have a good
flight.”

“Bye Ro… Tiny.” I’d said,
correcting myself quickly at his frown.

Without thinking, leaning forward I’d
wrapped my arms around his huge body, giving him a quick hug, before walking
down the corridor into the first class lounge; turning just before I disappeared,
to see he was still there watching me.  I gave a quick wave and turned the corner
out of view, heading into the lounge to await my flight.

Taking a seat, I’d searched my bag for my
mobile phone and quickly texted AJ.

“
Thank you.  The
upgrade was unexpected and a wonderful gesture. x”

To which I quickly
received the reply of…

“You’re welcome, and
you’re worth it.  Have a good flight my love.”  

“My love!” He’d called me “My love”.  With
that happy thought, I’d switched off my phone before I’d texted anything rashly,
and awaited my flight home.

*****

When I’d landed, I’d decided to stay and
visit Davy before heading home.  I’d kept in touch with her whilst in LA, but
she had no clue as to what had occurred over the last few days I’d spent with
AJ.  To say she was astonished was putting it mildly.  She decided to play the
voice of caution, and lecture me about the speediness of everything and to “not
become too attached, as it will be weeks before you see him again, and he might
not get in contact.” etc.  All of which I ignored.  Mainly because it’s already
too late.  I am already attached, completely, and absolutely.  As much as she protested,
I was not about to change my mind.

It had seemed strange at first, being back
in the old house.  It’s so quiet, with the house being off the beaten track;
down a country lane with hardly any traffic.

I’ve recharged my batteries, and the old
creative juices have started to flow, with an idea for my next book starting to
take shape.  So I have spent many days scribbling down outlines and formats,
building my ideas.

I’ve had several meetings with my editor
and publishers, as my book is due to go to press in a matter of weeks.  It
seems strange after all this time, that my work is finally coming to fruition,
and the knowledge that publication is imminent, is frankly quite nerve-racking.

Now here I am, the waiting nearly over.  I
know the guys are doing rehearsals and sound checks this afternoon, so we have
arranged that I will go straight to the hotel where they are staying.  AJ had volunteered
Tiny to pick me up from the train station, but I’d refused.  He was needed as security
for them not me.  I haven’t been approached, nor have there been any photos of
me in the press.  I feel safe to assume that my presence would go unnoticed; so
as far as I was concerned, it was just plain silly pulling Tiny away from his
true duties.

As the train pulls into the station and
halts, I grab my small overnight case; which as before was overloaded, even
though I am only going to be here less than forty-eight hours, and exit the
train.

Making my way out of the station, I quickly
make two texts.  One to Davy, informing her of my arrival, and one to AJ
stating exactly the same thing.  Almost immediately Davy replies, but there is
no reply from AJ.  I’m not surprised, if he is rehearsing, he probably wouldn’t
hear his phone anyway.

Exiting the station, I quickly scan the
area for a taxi; only to come up short at the sight of Tiny leaning against a
black Mercedes, obviously waiting for me.  On seeing me, with a huge grin
across his face, he straightens from the car, and makes his way towards me,
reaching out to take my bag.

“Jorgi.” He greets me.

“Oh Tiny it’s good to see you.” I say,
reaching for him to give him a hug. “But I told AJ I would make my own way to
the hotel.  There was no need to pull you away from your duties.”

“So I was informed, but I
said I would collect you anyway.”  

“Thank you.” I smile as he opens the car
door and I settle myself inside, hoping it wouldn’t be too long a journey to
the hotel.  

“How have you been Tiny? Is
AJ okay?”

“I’ve been very well and so has AJ, but I
have to admit I’m glad you are finally here, and I know AJ will be.” He replies
with a smile.

Settling back in the car, I watch the
streets pass by, whilst willing Tiny to drive just that little bit faster towards
our destination.  Tiny informs me that the band are still at the arena, but that
AJ is hoping to be back at the hotel soon.  Apparently there has been a sound
hitch that they need to sort out.  

Before long we are at the hotel, and Tiny
carries my bag as he escorts me towards the lift.  As usual, they have
commandeered a whole floor so that they can tighten the security, and minimise
any risks.

Just as the lift doors are closing, I catch
sight of the back of a tall willowy brunette walking away; obviously just
exiting the adjacent lift.  Something about her catches my eye, and I don’t
know what it is other than she was stunning.  I turn to Tiny and smile,
receiving a tentative smile in return, before he observes the dial noting our
accent to the top floor.

The suite is wonderful and Tiny takes my
bag and places it in the bedroom.

“Razor and Jens suite is just down the
hall.  I’ll let Jen know that you’ve arrived.” He says as he moves towards the
door.

I wander around the room, spotting signs of
habitation.  The odd T-shirt over the back of a chair, a couple of used glasses
on the table.

I’m standing gazing out of the window at
the city below, when there is a knock at the door, and I rush to answer it, finding
Jen standing on the other side, with a beaming smile on her face.

Embracing my dear friend, I suddenly realise
how much I have missed her.  Even though we have texted each other and spoken
on the phone, it’s obviously not the same.

Sitting down together on the sofa, Jen
starts to fill me in on the tour so far.  Telling me about all the places she
has visited, and the fun she has had.  I can’t help feeling a little jealous.  Not
because of the places she has been to, but because of the time she has spent
with her man.

“I haven’t been here too long myself.  I
took a later flight because I had to deal with something at home, so I diverted
to LA before coming here.” She explains with what can only be described as a
grin from ear to ear.

I know that look.  That look is Jen having
a secret, struggling to keep that secret, and not blurt it out.

“Okay, give.” I say

“Give what? I don’t know what you mean.”
She replies coyly.

I’m not fooled, she’s looking at me with a
stupid expression on her face, and I know she’s just dying to tell me the news,
whatever it may be.

I watch her as she tucks her hair behind
her ear, she looks so happy and the reason is suddenly very clear, as I notice
the diamond glinting on her wedding finger.

“OH MY GOD!” I exclaim grabbing her hand to
look at the ring.  It’s the biggest diamond I have ever seen.  I feel my eyes
stinging as happy tears gather. “You’re engaged.  Oh Jen!” I cry as I pull her
into my arms, feeling the tears pour down my cheeks.