Chapter Twenty Nine

My life felt a little more solidified, as I left Dot at the hospital with big Tony, he was one of our security team standing watch. any danger he knew to get her outta there and after meeting the working staff, he knew who could enter dots room and who couldn't, so Peace reigned and with a calm air flowing over my body I hailed a cab to the police station. Dot was right, the cops needed to be told of the latest and most serious threats.

As the cab pulled up kerbside I got in, and asked for the nearest cop station. Nodding his head and answering "yes sir" we were on the way.

At the cop station, I made them aware of the latest threat, and spoke to my lawyer too, Leaving the station I called Richie, "Hey.."
"hey yourself Jon, you ok?"
"Think so, had a moment there, but think its ok now, ... listen you free?"
"not  right this minute no, but I can be for you, what's up?"
"Can you meet me in the hotel bar, say in half and hour?"
"Sure, you wanna speak about it now?"
"No, laters fine, ..."
" ok, see ya then.."
He hung up and I walked into the lobby of the hotel and made to head to the bar. "Mr Bongiovi.."
I spun round hearing my name,  and came face to face with Antonia's mother.
My face spoke a thousand words, as with her next sentence, I could not hide my displeasure at her presence.
"I guess your wondering how I knew you were here, well I have been tailing you in a cab all morning, its cost me a pretty packet I can tell you.."
nervously she laughed... " thing is..."
"Wait a minute, how did you know where I was staying?, no one knows but my band and management team,"
she looked me direct in the eye and the coldness I saw at her house was there again, "Oh, all in good time Jon.... we have unfinished business, you left my house before I could finish what I was saying...."
"Lady what makes you think I am interested in what else you have to say, I thought I made it clear when I left that I wanted no more to do with you or your daughter. If you think you have something of relevance then contact my lawyer, or better still the cops"
I spun on my heels and turned to walk off to the bar, but for a second time, her next sentence made me freeze, and turn back to where she was standing.
"You found out your wife was alive then?"
"What the fuck do you know about that?"
"Oh so now your interested in what I have to tell you are you? my my, you blow hot and cold don't you?"
I grabbed her shoulders and shook her hard... "Just fucking tell me..."
She looked unperturbed by my actions, calmly saying
"Jon, please your hurting me... and creating a scene"
 My arms held her tight, my temper was at breaking point, "I said TELL ME."
she said nothing, but simply looked at my arms holding her in a vice like grip then at my eye's,
"If you release me, we can talk ....."
reluctantly I let go, and dropped my hands by my side, but they remained in clenched fists. 
"well, I'm waiting?"
"Can we at least have a drink in the bar and be Civil to one another?" I looked around at the people that were sitting or standing in the lobby and I could see a few had found interest in my spat with this women. The last thing I wanted was to stay in this women's company, but I had to know what she knew about the threat to Dot, so I nodded my head and we walked to the bar. 

The bar was dimly lit with not many people were in there, I took a booth at the back, while at the same time summoning the bar tender over.
When he arrived she spoke, "I'll have bloody mary, and you Jon?" "Scotch please, put them on my tab." the bar tender nodded and went off to get the drinks. 
She had no desire to tell me, and my patience was beyond stretched it was volcanic, glaring at her I spat "So enough of this bull shit, just tell me."
With a sly smile playing at the corner of her mouth she spoke,
"You got a call this morning right?"
"What of it"
"I know who made the call, Mr Bongiovi, I was not joking when I said your wife was in danger at my house, I was serious, honestly, all I am guilty of is trying to help you not cause you more problems, I wish you could see that and trust me..."
"Trust you?, lady I have no idea who you are, and as far as I'm concerned you, your daughter, your whole god damn family are nut cases and I want nothing to do with any of you, now if you want to help as you say you do, just tell me what it is I have to no and get the fuck outta my life... " I looked away just as the drinks were delivered to the table.
"I'm sorry you feel like that Jon, really I am, but  I can't do that Mr Bon... Jon, " she sneered this time as she spoke, and I did not see her hand slip into her purse, but I felt something hard and cold pressed against my side..  I looked down to the pressure point and saw a glisten of metal, then raising my eyes I looked at her face.
"mmm I have your interest now don't  I?"
she pressed harder in to my side to make her point. looking her in the eyes I asked,
" Just what do you want?"
"What we have always wanted... You."
"me? why me?, what have I ever done to you, or your daughter?"
she blanked my question but kept the gun pressed into my side, my eye's scanned the bar for anyone that I could make eye contact with for help, but the only other person drinking in the bar was a guy and he as with the bar tender on a stool and with his back to me. All I could do, was talk and get her to tell me why and try to persuade her to stop...

"Your such a pretty boy, so good looking.... you know, in your young day I know you was a gigolo, my friend used to live in your neighbourhood, she had you.... why can't you just give my daughter one night with you?"
"What are you talking about?"
"You Jon, you was a rent boy, inexperienced, but a rent boy, you had sex for money..."
"I was never a rent boy, I don't know where you heard that, but its wrong..." I tried to slide further round in the booth, but she moved with me too.
"Where are you going Jon... you know what I'm holding in your side is a gun.....Right? "
I nodded, "Good, well I'd hate to splatter your good looks around this bar, so I'll move it from you but we are going to have a conversation and we are going to arrange it so you will meet with my daughter, and let me tell you this, if you don't, Tony, your security guard in the hospital is my son and your wife, and children will be history... am I making it clear?"

I nodded my head, and sat dumb founded by her latest revelation.

So Tony was the leak, I was shocked, the guy had worked for me for eight years. Jeez, he had been on two world tours with me, he had a necklace..... what the fuck.... my last hope was that Richie get here quick... I really needed help... and I needed it now.
 

Chapter Twenty Eight

Stood on the sidewalk in shock, I could not think of where to go or what to do, I'm sure I was frozen in time for seconds only, but it felt like an eternity. When my mind focused and returned to rational thinking, I rang St Jerome's Hospital straight away, at the same time while waiting for them to answer I hailed a cab.
I got in the cab that pulled up kerbside and gave him directions, just as the phone was answered. "St Jerome's."
"Hi, can you put me through to Dr Helen Varney please, this is Jon Bongiovi."
"One Moment...." I waited and heard the call go out for Dots Dr to come take a call. A minute or so later the call was connected.
"Hi, Jon, its Helen what can I do for you?"
"Is Dot ok?"
"What?"
"Is my wife ok?"
"Of course she is, I was with her a while ago... what's with the call Jon?"
"How long ago were you with her?"
"not long ago, why?"
"Tell me how long not just a while ago.. god damn it I need to know, have you seen her in the last ten minutes?"
"No, what's going on."
I explained about the call to Helen. "give me one minute I'll go check but I am sure everything is ok."
I waited, the driver and me sat in mid town traffic going nowhere.
"Jon,"
I never thought Id hate hearing my name, but I did now, just this minute.
"yeah, I'm here"
"Dot is fine, she's sitting up in bed, and she has the TV on,  I did not tell her why I had checked on her, but she knows something is wrong. What is your next move?, you can't ignore that threat..."
"I'm thinking of moving Dot to a private location and hospital?"
"Ummm I know of two places I can recommend to you, want me to call ahead for you?"
"no, I'm coming into the hospital now, I should be with you in I guess about half an hour if this traffic lets up, what time you on till today?"
"my shifts done, but I'll wait for you, I'll sit with Dot till you get here, Ill make out I want a girl chat and have a coffee with her, and discuss rehab for her shoulder."
"thanks Helen,"
"no problem"
The traffic was terrible and with my anxiety, I was frustrated. "is there some other way you can go?"
" You are kidding right?, you know a better way tell me, I've been a cab driver for twenty years, I know every route in and out..."
"Ok, already, I was just asking..."
Sitting back in the seat I tried to get my frustration in check, I did feel calmer as Helen was with Dot, however I could not help giving the driver the stink eye although I knew it wasn't his fault.

Twenty minutes later and we started making headway through the jam, and found a turning we could take that allowed us to increase the engine power to driving speed at least.
Once moving we arrived at the hospital in no time, paying the driver I got out and ran into the hospital.
minutes later I was in dots room, and just as Doc had said she was fine and sitting up with the TV on and now sat talking to Helen, who was as good as her word and waited for me.

"Thank you for waiting Helen, I can't tell you how much that means to me."
"It's all good," putting her hand in her pocket she gave me a piece of paper with names of three private hospitals on. I looked down at the names, then back up at the Dr and smiled.
She too smiled right back at me, and not just using her mouth but her eye's too, I'd never notice before just how beautiful she was, and for a second or more I was caught, and totally mesmerized by her.
"Jon, Jon... "
My attention caught and now back in the moment I apologised for zoning out. "Sorry my mind went for a walk..."
"Laughing she asked, "That happen much?"
"more than I'd like these days that's a fact, I guess its age"
She laughed and smiled, Dot was quiet watching us, "So what precautions have you taken so far?"
"just the usual, lawyer, restraining order, cops involved... what more can I do?"
"Well private investigators, and body guards would be good too, don't ya think?"
"Hello??? Jon, body guards, PI's?, Jon what's going on?"
Dots face was full of concern, which was the last thing I wanted for her right now, she needed to recover from her stab wound, and worrying about Antonia should not be an option. So I tried to splay it down.
"its for me at the shows babe, were trying to get as much on Antonia so we can get her arrested and maybe committed."
"Jon, really, you expect me to believe that? Your talking to my Doc about your security and shows?"
Doc made her excuse and left, "I'll wait for you at the nurses station Ok?"
I nodded, "thank you".

Alone with Dot she started in, "Jon don't give me soft soap and bull what is it you are concerned about, and if its about me please tell me, at least then I know what I'm dealing with too."
"its nothing honest, trust me ok, just let me handle things?" I lent forward to kiss her head, but Dot was having none of it.
"handle it?, Jon, look at me? look at us? your handling has gotten us into this mess in the first place, so how can I do worse than you?, tell me please?"
As much as I did not want Dot to know, she had a point, "Ok, I got a phone call earlier saying that you were dead,"
"And...."
"And nothing, I'm here"
"mmm but there's more too, c'mon give"
"well I think it was Antonia, she had disguised her voice, but I cant be one per cent sure..."
I paused, not sure how to word the next sentence to Dot without scaring the life out of her,
"Carry on..."
"She said she had killed you."
"omg, do the police know of this latest threat?"
"not yet"
"Why? you should contacted them straight away Jon, not be here with me."
"Dot, all I could think of was getting to you and making sure you were ok, the cops were the farthest thought and didn't even enter my mind."
Standing I stood at the window looking out, Dot was right but her words stung and hurt, the love I had for my wife took precedence over anything.
"Jon, I'm not saying your wrong, really and I... Jon, please come here and sit with me?"
turning round with my arms folded across my chest, trying to protect my heart, I walked back over to Dots side and sat perched on the bed.
She smiled at me, "that's better.." taking my hand "So can you call the cops now?"
"Yeah, I will, but You have to know what it was like receiving that call Dot, my blood ran cold.... I love you, you have been my rock, mother to my wonderful kids, your my soul mate...." pausing again I looked down, my heart was heavy, since all this began my life had been spiralling out of control and today was the icing on top of the cake, and now I had started I could not stop pouring my heart out to Dot and laying my soul totally bare before her, gaging her response I watched the love and desire return to her beautiful eye's, My dot was back by my side and now I knew I could do anything.

Chapter Twenty Seven

I looked at Matt, he gave me a look to say "What?" maybe I was wrong about the glisten in her eye, but I was cautious and sure the hell trusted no one other than close family and friends.

"So, what do you think your daughters next move will be?" I was eager to hear how she could predict her daughters next actions, if at all, one thing I had learnt, Antonia was anything but predictable, totally the opposite in fact.

Marianna, gave me a cold look, not to dissimilar to the stare of her daughter in the photo I had seen earlier.
"Mmm, Given what you have told me, I would hazard a guess that she is going to get into your bedroom suite at the hotel, the decision you make with her will determine your fate Mr Bongiovi."
"Wait a minute, your telling me after dragging me here, what possibly I could have deducted myself?, lady, you like your daughter a total waste of space, and more importantly my time." getting up from the couch, Matt and Richie followed, I made my goodbye and we all left.

She followed down the hall to the front door, shouting in protest to make me stay to hear more of her crap, but something just was not right, and I was uncomfortable in her company as I was in her daughters. The saying like mother, like daughter, sprung to mind, and an argument in my head raged, could they both be wacko's?. In the car Richie and Matt looked from one to the other, both of them studying me.
"What? you can't tell me you didn't think she was wacko too right?"
rich smiled and held his hand up, "Hey, not judging, listening party only."
"And?"
"some of what she said made sense Jon, sure we could have predicted her next more between us, but she has warned you that you are in danger, man you are delusional to just think you need security to rid her out of ya room,  fact is; we don't know what's going on in her head right?, no one does Jon, not even her mom. We have to talk much better precautions"
"So your saying I'm wrong in how I see her then?, cause the similarities are scary man. I'm no chicken, but did you not feel apprehensive in her company, like everything is not all.... " I was struggling to find the words a first for me, Matt hit the nail on the head, "She wasn't firing on all pistons."
"Yeah, she is as much of a fruit cake as her wacko daughter, and me visiting her mom has just stepped up the problem in my eyes... don't ya  think.?"
rich tilted his head to the side, then straight, his eye's registering what I had said,  "Maybe", Matt nodded.
I was on a roll and let everything mounting in my head thoughts all crazy, making no real sense, come tumbling outta my mouth.
"When I said her daughter had caught me coming out of the shower and had ripped the towel from my waist, I swear I saw a glisten in her eye's, and when she had said about what her daughter may be planning, I saw blackness in her eye's too, just the same as the picture of her daughter I saw on the wall when we arrived. I'm telling ya guy's that women has a black heart."

 

The rain had started to fall as for the rest of the drive we sat quiet, with the rain lashing on the windows. Just before we arrived, Rich spoke, "Jon, I'm really anxious about everything, do me a favour ok, swap rooms with me, down grade yourself, I have a plan." I nodded my head in agreement, puzzled as to what Rich was up to.

 

Back at the hotel, I moved my stuff from My room to Richie's. I asked him his plan, but he refused to tell me. All he would let on was, it would be an asset for me. I hated him keeping me in the dark, this was my life,  and I wanted to know, and Second, I did not want Rich to put his own life in danger for me, and something was telling me that was exactly what he was doing.

 

Richie's room was still plush, just lacked the space I was used too, but he was hoping it would be for a short time only.

 

Unpacking I sat on the bed, then swung my feet up, and laid back, closing my eye's I thought about Marianne. what was it about her that un nerved me so much, the answer was there, but would not show itself. It was like having a niggling doubt that kept poking ya in the ribs, and no matter how hard you tried to stop it, it remained..

 

I laid thinking and replaying the visit over and over in my head, each time the blackness and coldness in her eyes was the forefront of the replay.

 

Restless, and irked with myself I sat up, after a visit to the bathroom, I decided to get some fresh air. Sunglasses and cap, I grabbed my jacket and took too the streets. No sooner had I started walking my cell rang, I looked at caller Id but nothing showed. Stopping I hesitated before answering.

"Hello"
"Good afternoon, is that Mr Bongiovi?"
"who wants to know"
" St Jerome's Hospital."
"yes speaking"
"you are the husband to Dorothea Bongiovi?"
"Yeah, what's wrong?" my heart was racing, and got worse as I listened. 
" your wife has died."
"What? What you mean my wife has died, she was fine yesterday? How could she be dead?"

The next words out of the callers mouth made my world spin,
"because, I slit her throat."

Chapter Twenty Six

A week later and Matt, Richie and me were heading to Minnesota, I was taking the guys as back up;  if nothing else, this whole thing had taught me to be cautious, for all I knew this could be Antonia playing games, although the letter seemed genuine enough.
Checking the address that Matt had gotten and wrote down, I folded the piece of paper and put it back into my pocket. Richie watched me.

"What ya gonna say Jon?"
"it aint me that's gonna be saying much really, she wants to meet to give me advice, she wants her daughter back, so I can have my life back."
"But ya gotta talk about her too right?"
"I guess," I looked out of the window "but I'm gonna listen first, enough of my life has become public, I don't want anymore of it too."
"so no -one knows we are seeing this women right?"
"No, just us three."
The driver pulled up at the gate and address we had been given.
I lad the way walking down the pathway to the front door. The house was a typical suburban property complete with picket fence. It was in good repair so my optimism was high for going inside.
All three of us reached the front door, and we looked from one to the other as I rang the bell.

We waited, eventually, the door was answered. A women in her late years, but still striking in looks, grey flecks ran through her shoulder length hair that was braided with kiss curls falling around her temple and cheeks, dressed in a straight skirt with a red sweater and high patent shoes, my optimism grew further.
With a wide smile she greeted us, "Welcome Mr Bongiovi, Please do come inside." walking away she asked, "Can I get you coffee, tea or something harder to drink?"
I answered for us all, "Coffee please."
Marianne led us to her sitting room, "Please have a seat gentlemen, I will be back, how do you take your coffee, light, sugar, cream?"
Richie gave me a look and got up and offered to go help, he did not trust anyone. "its ok, we are all different, let me come and help you."
there was no resistance and that inspired a little trust. While Rich went into the kitchen to make coffee's with Antonia's mom, Matt and I looked around the room.

On the wall were family pictures, Marianne in her younger days with a handsome man at her side, I assumed her husband, then group pictures, more family shots I guessed, but what stopped me in my tracks was the photograph of a young girl, with a smiling face holding a cuddly toy. Looking into the picture I studied the eye's and felt really cold at the lack of life that was missing, even though she was only young in the photo, the darkness showed through.

Richie and Marianne re entered the room and I spun round and went and took a seat next to Matt as Rich handed me my coffee.
 Rich then took a seat opposite and diagonal to where Marianne had seated herself.
Immediately she broke the ice, and the tension that had grown in minutes.
"thank you for coming Mr Bongiovi, I guess you were a little perturbed by my letter to you?, let me say I had tried to make contact by phone but your assistant Diane was having none of it and refused point blank to put me through or get you to call me. And that's fine, and I understand, but due to the serious nature of my daughter I had to get your attention somehow."
We listened, Richie spoke before I could reply. "Your daughter is some piece of work, what bothers me though, is the time its took for you to make contact with Jon?, why is that?"
"It's just as I said, from the moment I realised what my daughter was up to I tried to make contact, but the Bongiovi camp is tight, the letter was the last resort I had. there's nothing sinister I can assure you."
"Thanks but, we trust no-one but us."
"that's fine, I understand."
this time I took control, "Ok, so what is it you can do to help me Mrs Fisher."
"Please call me Marianne."
"If you don't mind I'd like to keep it professional, I don't feel I know you well enough to relate to you on first name terms." My face was hard, and she looked at me, with a hurt expression.
"Ok, if that's how you wish to be, I understand, but I only want to try to help you get your life back and stop anything serious occurring."
Matt, interrupted, "So you keep saying, but we aint heard nothing yet that's gonna help my bro, and honestly lady time is moving and we have a gig tonight, so can we move this along."

Placing her cup on the dresser, she looked back at us seriously, "Alright, Antonia, tell me what she has done so far?"
"everything she can, fake pictures, constant harassment, video's, and just last week she injured my wife. Please understand that is just an outline, and the stress I am going though is unbelievable."
"how did it start, I need to understand her mind right now, so I can tell you what her next move will be."
"It started when she found her way backstage and got into my private dresser while I was showering after a show."
"What did she do?, were you injured when she met you?"
"not exactly injured, as compromised."
"in what way?"
"she ripped the towel from my body, which meant I was standing naked before her." I was feeling irked, "sorry, can I ask in what way is this helping you?" I thought I saw a glisten in her eye's when she knew I had been naked before her daughter.

Chapter twenty five

After a long and trying night spent at the hospital with D and the cops, my whole body was drained, I ached all over and in places I never thought I could ache.

The cops had met me at the hospital and had a listened to the recording of the call to 911, with the operator Marissa.

I spent half the time checking on D with doctors and the other time talking to the cops.
Now with a show to do in ten  hours I needed to get some sleep.

As the cab stopped outside my hotel, paying the fare, I walked through the hotel entrance,  but instead of heading straight to the elevator and heading to my room, I took a detour and walked into the bar instead. Taking a seat at the bar I waited for the bar tender to come over, I could see his back as he was lent down stocking the refrigerator with bottles. Right now I could wait as I needed something to take the edge off so I could switch off my brain to sleep and be ready for the show.

Finished his chores the bar tender came over, bar towel on his arm, "Good Morning, what can I get for you sir?"
"Whisky, and make it a double."
"Coming right up." he turned away to get my drink, and I scanned around the bar, hoping and praying that my stalker wasn't there. it was dark in the bar, with low level atmosphere lighting, but after checking twice I was sure I was ok, and I felt relieved, somehow she had managed to find my new hotel. I had to find out how she seemed to be one step ahead all the time. Who was she working with and who was giving her the information?.

My drink was placed on a mat in front of me. "What's your room number sir?"
"the penthouse"
"Ok thank you Mr Bongiovi."
the bar tender then walked away to carry on what he was doing before I arrived. I could hear faint chatter in the background as there were some business men, with briefcases waiting on cabs, or for their meetings, either having coffee's and drinks until their time came to leave. Part of me was interested in the normality of their lives and part of me wanted there to be total silence.

My gaze and attention brought back to the drink in front of me, I picked the glass up to my lips, and drank straight back the amber liquid and swallowed, the warmth and burn followed as the liquid slid down my throat, causing me to cough a little. shaking my head a little, with the drink gone I placed the glass on the bar, Raised my hand in salute to the bar tender and walked out and stood at the elevator. 
With the whiskey warming me inside,  next stop was my floor, I needed sleep, I was pretty sure sleep would arrive quickly after my head hitting the pillow.

Off the elevator and walking along the passage, I was stopped in my tracks, as it was obvious my nightmare was not going to end, there waiting for me was Antonia.

"For the love of god, don't you ever quit?"
moving to the door I unlocked it, the pressed the handle and walked inside. Antonia tried to follow, putting my hand up, I blocked her and managed to close the door.  She was talking, but I had switched off from her, after double locking and bolting the door, I walked straight to my sleeping area, undressed and climbed into bed, the knocking from the door slipping into my unconscious as I fell asleep.

When my eyes opened I checked the time, six thirty, although I has slept well, I was still tired. Swinging my legs over the edge of the bed, I sat for a few minutes allowing my body to catch up with my eyes.

Standing I walked to the bathroom to relieve my bladder, and grabbing some shorts on the way back through I went out into my main living area and poured myself a cup of coffee. Sitting back on the sofa I switched on the TV and watched the news.
with nothing new or anything of interest I switched it off again, and sat thinking with my head back.
A knock came at the door, instinctively I called out, "Who's There?"
"Richie, man, you ready, car will be here in half an hour man, we need to do sound check and run through of the set list.."
"You alone Rich?"
"Yeah man, what's with the questions?"
I got up and walked over and opened the door.
"Shit bro you look rough, you sickening for something?"
"No, just been a real shit night."
"I told Rich about D and Antonia. "Why the hell didn't you call me?, where is the bitch now?"
"I have no idea, she was waiting here when I came back from the hospital, and i'm hoping the cops have her."
"So she stab D then?"
"No proof bro, she kinda admitted it, but then didn't"
"Man, you need some serious security Jon. This is way more than just stalking... man this is attempted murder. You could be next if she don't get what she wants."
"Yeah I know, but the shows have to go on Rich, Doctors said D would be fine too, just take a little time to heal."
" Ahha and who is watching over D in hospital?"
I looked at Rich, and my blood ran cold, it never entered my head to have security on hand to keep a check on her."
"Shit, I never thought about security for D, I thought she would be safe."
"Hey bro, I'm sure she will be, but as this bitch is one step ahead, I think hedging your bets and covering all the bases is best right now, until you hear she's locked up anyway."
"Your right."
I went and grabbed my cell from the bedroom and rang Matt.
"Yo Jon, where the fuck are you?, everyone's waiting."
"I'm on my way, listen Matt I don't have time to go into the details right now, but I need you to arrange security for D at St Jerome's Hospital ok?, do it now. I'll see you when I get there."

Knowing that Matt would have a hundred and one questions I hung up before he could ask, and I knew he would arrange the security as I asked for D. Making my way out back I washed, brushed my teeth and dressed and was back standing with Rich waiting for the car. When the call came we left. Grateful still that the press and paps still had not found my hotel.

The ride to the venue was quiet,  but every now and then Rich looked at me. I still had a hard time figuring how my life had ended up so complicated and stressed.

A short ride later and the driver pulled up and allowed us to get out, walking round the hallways of the venue was like a maze, but having played there so many times before I knew where I was going.  Arriving at a turning, Rich slapped me on the back as he went to his room and I went into mine.

He was gonna get the guys out on stage for the check, and it was gonna be a quick one tonight for sure. I prayed it would be good and that my own arrogance would not let us down, but with the stress of the last few day's time had run away on me. I felt bad but there was nothing apart from cancelling that I could do. And cancelling was not in Bon Jovi options list.

With my vocal warm up complete, and the honey drink consumed I headed to the stage, on stage we ran through the set list for the night, fate was on my side and the sound check was good.  the guys left me alone and knew my routine before a show was to leave me be. I had my own way of psyching  myself ready for the show, they too had their own. but we all would meet prior to stepping on stage, all hands together, a unity for the band.

Having changed ready for the show, I sat and looked through the well wishes and cards that always found there way to the venue. I started to read one letter, and my heart started to race.

"Dear Mr Bongiovi,

Please forgive my writing to you, but I want you to understand what you are dealing with. Antonia is my daughter, so I understand the illness she has suffered since being a child.

I am so sorry for the stress and anxiety she is causing to you.

Let me share some of the information about my daughter that may help you and save your life. Antonia suffers from an illness called schizophrenia, and with medication it is well controlled, unfortunately my daughter has stopped taking her meds, but before I could get her sanctioned and seconded to a secure unit she left home, destination unknown.

As a little girl your music always helped her, and got her through the black periods she suffered. She would always tell me you touched her soul and it was like you were writing the lyrics just for her, to make her feel better.

I love my daughter Mr Bongiovi, but having watched the news I can see how out of control she has become, and honestly I am afraid. Afraid for you and your family, without her medication she is a ticking time bomb. If she does not get what she wants she will stop at nothing until she does.

Worryingly, Her cat Beechy, was her soul companion, prior to her leaving home, but while playing together, the cat accidently scratched her, and I'll not give the graphic details but she killed the animal in a rage. there was no remorse, no nothing, as far as she was concerned the cat had served its purpose, but had hurt her, so in her mind to kill it was the only option.

I hope you can see, why I am concerned, for you and your family, and I urge you seriously to take every precaution you can to stay safe.

Should you wish to talk to me, or meet me, I am more than willing to help you, I want my daughter home, safe and on her medication and you want your life back.

Please call me on 555-717-2185, I'll help all I can.

Kindest Regards

Marianne Fisher"

I read the letter twice, taking in everything that had been written. I made a decision to get matt to call her and arrange a meeting, she lived in Minnesota, we would be passing through that way next week and I wanted to meet Antonia's mom.

as I stepped out on stage for the show, it was with a heavy heart, for the first time in my life I wished I was not performing and that I could cancel the shows until the nightmare was over.

Chapter twenty four

Clicking the TV on, I flicked through channels to find something to watch, something where I could escape from the nightmare that had become my reality, channel after channel flicked by, eventually my eye caught a movie about JFK, always interested in what the man was about and looking to achieve for a better tomorrow for not just America, but the rest of the world too., I settled back after getting a glass of wine to watch.

Mid way through there was a knock to the door, my eye's followed to the door but I was not in the mood for anyone, so ignored the gentle knock. A few minutes later the knock came again, this time a little louder, again I ignored it, then seconds later a loud rap on the door, this time with a call out.... "Jon, open up its me Dorethea" Still I remained on the sofa but shouted back, "Go away Dot, I've had enough for one night. I talk with you tomorrow."
"I won't leave Jon, I need to talk with you... please open the door?"
"No Dot, just leave me alone ok?"
"I can't Jon, I love you, please hear me out, I'm sorry"
"I get your sorry, but I have nothing left I want to say right now or can say, Dot go to your room or go home, I'll speak with you in the morning."
sobs were heard from the other side of the door, and then a scraping sound like when someone slides down the door. then more sobs, before it all went deathly quiet.

My interest was lost in the movie, and I kept starring at the door, something did not feel right, why had the sobbing stopped so abruptly?,
I was certain Dot was still on the other side, but knowing her as well as I did, I knew she would not just sit quiet. Dot had a fire in her belly and when she wanted something she would not stop until she was heard. Always strong and independent it was what I loved about her.
Leaning forward I moved to the edge of the sofa, placing my glass on the table I walked over to the door, pressing my ear to the door I strained to listen, there was nothing but an eerie silence. moving back, I unlatched the door and opened it. Dot had been sat with her back to the door and fell into the room as the door opened.

something was wrong, Dot's body was slumped and she was non responsive, as I knelt down I saw blood on her shirt, immediately I felt for a pulse, there was one but it was extremely weak. Grabbing my cell from my pocket I dialled 911.
Seconds later the call connected... "(911 what's your emergency?"
"Erm a stabbing I think?"
"A stabbing? where are you sir?"
my mind was fogged, struggling I answered "the Hilton Hotel..." struggling further I finally managed to give the full address....
"Is the person breathing sir? "
"Yes, but its not much, her pulse is weak, please hurry?"
everything Dot and me had spoke about earlier in the night was forgotten as I looked over the women I loved, praying that she would be ok...
"Sir... Sir...Sir are you still with me?"
I was brought back to reality..." Yes I'm still here sorry, I was checking she was breathing ok?"
"Help is on the way sir, but I need you to stay on the line with me, can you do that?"
"Yes..."
"Can you see where the blood is coming from?"
"Yes, Ok, can you find something to apply pressure to the wound?"
searching round the room frantically I could find nothing..."
"I cant find anything?"
"Can you get a towel sir?"
yeah of course a towel.... I got up and went to the bathroom and returned with a towel, as I knelt beside Dot to apply pressure, I became aware of a pair of feet in the doorway, talking to the operator I was about to close the call when I looked up and saw the cause of my nightmares standing in the room...
"She still alive then?"
"What?"
"is she alive?"
"Yes... just... but what?"
my hand had the towel still not applying pressure, instinctively my hand rested on the wound and I pressed down to stem the blood, the call still connected to the  operator at 911. She was quiet as she listened to the call. she spoke once only to reassure me she was still there....
"You did this?"
My stalker looked down at me with Dot, a smug smile on her over painted red lips...
"maybe.. do you want me to be the bad guy?"
"You are fucking sick in the head"
"am I?, because I love you Jon?"
"how the fuck can you love me?, you don't even know me?"
"Oh but I do know you Jon, I know you very well...."
my attention was again distracted as the medic crew arrived, they pushed past and knelt down and immediately tended to Dot. I stood and moved back to allow them room to work.
My eyes flicking from Dot to the stalker.
with dot stabilised they moved her to the gurney and told me to ride with them, grabbing my room key, I pushed the stalker out of the door and followed the medics down the hall way, on to the lift and out back to the ambulance, the stalker keeping pace just a step behind me at all times.
the whole situation  was surreal, my mind was hurting trying to take in everything that had happened.
As Dot was put in the back of the ambulance I climbed in, still with the phone in my hand, still connected to the emergency services. as the doors closed the stalker waved at me and blew a kiss.

" sir? are you ok?"
"Yes, thanks, I'm in the ambulance.."
"ok sir we will end the call..."
"thank you, thank you so much..."
"Your welcome sir... good night.."
the line now dead, the driver started to move the ambulance, with sirens blaring, he picked up speed indicating the urgency to get to the hospital,  to try to save my wife's life.... now the stalker had taken the game to a new level and it was obvious this was gonna be a fight for life and death....
holding Dots hand, I knew I had to fight, and fight to win...

ChapterTtwenty Three

My heart was heavy as the realisation of what Dot had done began to sink in, I touched her shoulder and she turned to face me, a tearstained face looking back.
"Why?"
"I-I-I didn't do it Jon, things happened, like the letter that arrived in the post about the baby, and I don't know, I just thought this was my chance to persuade you to quit the work load, and spend some time with us your family.... the stalker I swear is nothing to do with me...." she spoke in between the sobs, which came in big gulps. I placed my arms around her shoulders and led her back to the sitting area, as we sat down, she pulled away and looked at me.... "I'm sorry..."  as I looked down at her face I was having de -ja-vu, as only half and hour before we had been sitting and she had said the exact same words. This time though it was with an added blow....... inside, I had no idea how I was feeling, confused, hurt, angry, bewildered? completely shocked I guess..... but I knew I could not tell her everything was ok, cause I knew in my heart it wasn't, and I could not lie.... as she snuggled her head back onto my chest, she asked the dreaded question, "will it be alright?
sighing deeply before I answered the best I could manage was "I hope so..." not the greatest reassurance I could give her right now, but it was all I could say.  Immediately she jumped on it,
"you hope so?, what does that mean?"
"I don't know Dot, I hope it can all be worked out, but I have no crystal ball.... I just don't know,"
"Crystal ball?, why would you need a crystal ball?"
"I don't need one, but I don't know how I am feeling right now, its not every day your wife tells you she has been working with a stalker to get him to quit his job?"
"Oh that's right twist it back on me...., well that's just fine Jon... you came to me in the middle of the night and told me your sorry story and just expected me to believe it, but you cant get me or where I'm coming from? that's just great..."
"Dot, I came to you in the middle of the night to explain to you a delicate situation, and then you dump on me about a letter and a baby that's mine, and even though I told you I never knew her you condemned me, straight from the get go?, now you tell me, you wanted to use the letter to your own advantage and stop me touring..., jesus, you think so little of me, and can't talk to me?, you needed to use a letter to do that?, why dot?, am I that hard to talk too?"
"No, your not that hard to talk to Jon, just real hard to make understand and listen to me...I was desperate, can't you see that?"
"Desperate?, you have everything I can provide for you?, you knew my job when you married me Dot?, this aint nothing new, so don't lay on me twenty plus years into the marriage you don't understand and want me to be a house husband, cause that will never happen."
" so you don't care about me, my needs or your kids?"
"Whoa there, I don't care?, what the fuck is wrong with you women?, if I didn't care, why have I provided for you all?, I love you and the kids more than anything.... you know that... but what I do is in my blood Dot?, I cant just stop, you may as well take my heart if that's what you want..... You, the kids and my job is my life, its why I get outta bed and breathe every day........ I can't give it up Dot.... I can't..."
"Won't you mean....."
rising from the sofa, she walked to the door, opening the door she turned and looked back before she left and shouted back... "thanks for nothing Jon, glad I mean that much to you?"
I was guilty of letting her go, I just could not make my mind work.... 

I just sat, motionless, taking it in and hearing her say the words over and over..... every time the same words came to mind... why and why now?,

Chapter twenty two

"Dot?, hey, what a surprise, come in."  Rich squeezed past, " right that's me then, nodding his head at Dot he continued, I'll see you at sound check then ok?"
"Yeah fine, and thanks again Rich?" he saluted and smiled as he walked away.  
Dot  still stood in the hall way,  finally she stepped into the room and spoke, much softer than all of our other calls and talks "not interrupting anything was I?, band talk for instance?"
"No, it's fine, Rich, was leaving as you arrived, he just brought my stuff over from the Ritz."
"Guess you are wandering why I'm here right"
"umm thought has crossed my mind."
"well, after your call, I spoke with Richie did he tell you?"
"Yeah he mentioned he had spoke with you, look do you at least want to sit?" she nodded and walked over to the sofa as I closed the door.
"Can I get you a drink?"
"just coffee for me, I have a class in the morning, a group of ten year olds, and if I'm not on the ball they will rip me to pieces." she laughed nervously, there was an atmosphere and it was getting more tense by the second.
"Erm, well I guess I had better tell you what I know then huh?"
I was confused, and repeated her sentence, "What do you mean tell me what you know?" I poured her coffee into a cup and took it across and handed it to Dot as I sat next to her.
"I'm confused"
Dot put her cup on the table and turned to face me.
"Thing is Jon, I have been getting letters and messages on the phone for months, all telling me of your infidelity, yeah I know I've heard crap before, but this time its been different.... I-I- don't know why, I can't put my finger on it, but this time it hurt so bad, then the press... and well it brings it full circle to being here now... do you get it?"
I was at a total loss, no understanding whatsoever, I had to get Dot to explain it all to me and from the beginning.
"Dot, hold up.... I'm lost and confused in all this.... can you tell me everything and from the beginning please... I'm trying hard to get what your telling me, but I have no idea what you are speaking about"

She looked at me, tears filled her eye's and began to creep to the edge of her lids making her eye's glisten in the light, slowly the tears trickled over and down her cheeks. She tried hard to control her emotions and keep herself in check, but as her bottom lip quavered she broke out in sobs, made worst by her trying to explain everything in between, which just made even less sense than before.

I wanted to console her, after all she was my wife and I loved her with every bit of my being and body, tentatively I put my arms around her and drew her toward me and gently kissed her eye's and head, while stroking her arms and shoulders and back.

She let me and slowly we relaxed with each other staying in each other embrace for over and hour, until at last her sobs slowed and her breathing had all but returned to normal. I looked down at her tear stained face, and her weepy eyes looked up at me,
"I'm sorry"
"Sorry for what?"
"For breaking down, for not believing you, for accusing you and believing lies.. I'm sorry for everything... "
"Stop, ok?"
"But I am... really I am"
"Look, lets leave it ok?, can we just move on from this?"
"we can Jon, there's nothing I want more, but I have done you wrong."
"what?, what are you saying?"
"I'm saying I want you to forgive me for wrongly judging you?"
 "hey, hang on here, are you saying you now believe me?"
"sort of"
the tension started to return to the room, and I was starting to feel uncomfortable, and my temper was starting to rise.
"No c'mon you either do or don't, what other doubts can you have?"

I let go of my hold on Dot and got up off the sofa, and walked back over to the mini bar and got a shot of vodka as Rich and I had drank all the whiskey,  opening the shot bottle I drank.

Dot got up off the sofa too and had joined me, walking into my space.

"Well the evidence has been pretty compelling right? if the shoe were on the other foot you would do the same right?"
"No Dot, I wouldn't, no why?, cause I trust you, simple as that. what you fail to realise is that I am a victim here and someone is using every devious skill they have to kill my marriage with you and cause me pain, and why I have no idea, but instead of trusting me, you condemn me without even listening to me, you have given me no support, so yeah maybe you do need to apologise to me eh, for being a down right bitch..." I knocked back the rest of vodka, and gave Dot the stink eye waiting on her reply.
She moved back away from me, "that's right you just twist it Jon... same ol same old eh?"
"What?, what's that suppose to mean?"
"like you don't know"
"Dot, I'm not in the mood for games, ok?, I'm tired, I'm drained and worn out from it all, I've still got a tour to do too, so will you please just tell me what all this is about and tell me what is going round your freaking head, for the love of god. just help me out here will ya?"
I looked up to the ceiling as if the almighty would give me the answers I needed to make sense of all this shit. He didn't.
"this was a bad idea, I should not have come, I'm sorry Jon I'll go..."
"So your walking out on me again?, why do you do that eh?, do you hate me so much now? do you think I am enjoying all of this Dot, well do ya?"
"I don't know what to think Jon, your confused how do you think I feel?"
"well that's just it, I don't no cause you won't fucking tell me."
Dot spun round on her heels and came back over to me, standing inches from my face she spat."
"I'm tired of the shit and living alone Jon, while you go off and be Mr fucking Rockstar, it's time you jacked it in, and finally realised you have children and a family and most importantly you have a wife.."
the crying started again and she turned away.
I just stood totally shocked and dumbfounded by her outburst.
"Hey, are you telling me that you set this up?, just so you could stop me playing in the band? Dot look at me please?"
She stood with her back to me and said nothing....

Chapter Twenty One

It was a little after eight when Richie arrived with my bag, letting him in we hugged as brothers do.

"so, how it go today?, any closer to sorting this crap out?"
"kinda,"
"What the fuck that mean?, kinda?, you gotta have some legal rights?"
"Yeah I have but not much cause she ain't really done anything to hurt me, a restraining order is all's they can do right now"
"serious, man, that won't stop her,"
I nodded, "I know, but most Michael can do, and have her arrested when she does, I've gotta make notes too"
"for real?, that's all? What about the photos, breaking through backstage, video? "
"it's all circumstantial bro"
"that sucks"
Again I nodded, "tell me something I don't know"
"I will, " Rich walked over to the mini bar and got two drinks, walking back over he sat on the sofa and patted the seat next to him for me to join him. He held a smug smile on his lips.

"Why you looking so smug?"

"sit, all will be revealed."

I sat next to him and eyed him suspicious, the last time Rich had behaved like this I had been doused in water after a gig.

"ok, I'm sitting what gives, and I warn you Sambora no pranks."

He laughed, "You are so suspicious, no pranks."

"So what then?"

"Matt,"

"What bout him?"

"he knows bout the girl that has said your the pop to her kid."

"yeah he knew before,"

"yeah, but bet ya didn't know that I have spoke to him and told him to go get a paternity test."

"Hang on, you have told Matt the kids his not mine?."

"I have, he was pretty pissed, tried denying he had slept with her, even said the kid looked like you not him."

"whoa, Rich, what have you done?"

"What, I've helped you clear your name for fucks sake."

"no all you have done is shift the blame from me to Matty, he has a wife too, for fuck sake Rich, do you ever engage your brain."  I got up and started to pace.

"Right, so telling Dot for you was ok, but telling your fucking ass of a brother who was happy for you to take the blame for his own indiscretions is not? I'm fucking confused. no one can do right for fucking wrong with you Jon"

Rich joined me and was on his feet pacing the room the room too. his face set in a frown and his temper rising by the second.

I knew what Rich had done was thinking in my interests, but I wanted to be the one to sit down with Matt and talk to him about his indiscretion, not Richie. Matt was my brother after all.

I took a deep breath and walked over to Rich, facing him direct I spoke calmer.

"look Rich, as much as you want to help, there are times you need to run things past me first. I wanted to talk to Matt myself, I understand him, you think telling him to go get a paternity test was the best way to tell him he's a pop?"

Rich tilted his head on one side as he answered, I guess not.  but I wanted to help, I just did it the wrong way.. I just didn't think I guess, I'm sorry"

"It's ok," patting rich on the arm " I'll sort it," my mind then clicked with what Rich said, "Hey, you said you told dot?"

"Yeah, she rang me before I came over with your stuff."

"Sorry man, I wanted to tell you that I had mentioned bout Matt to Dot, but time ran away, ya know.."

"Hey, it's fine, both of us fucked up eh"

we laughed, that's how it was between us, we were both passionate people and as quick as we could flare up, things were calm again. I had to know what Dot had said, so asked him while fixing us too  more whisky's.

"Can you tell me what she asked?"

Rich sat back down on the sofa, I followed and handed him his drink, he explained.

"sure, she rang late afternoon, she went straight for it, no pleasantries."

dot was always direct.

"What she say?"

"She just jumped straight in, "Richie, Jon said you know something about the girl that say's Jon is the pop of her baby, tell me?"

I chuckled, "that's my Dot..."

"Yeah, I said, nice to hear from you too Dot, she didn't bite on that, just pushed me to answer, so I told her about the times Matt and this girl had been back stage with all the flirting and that they had gone off together and obviously had slept together, and that I could swear on a stack of bibles and my daughters life you had not been unfaithful with this women, that was accusing you."

"thanks man."

"that's not all, and shoot me again if ya want, but I told her that Antonia was not your lover either, I told her everything about that too."

my eye's were wide with shock.

"I'm guessing she did not believe that right?"

"She was hesitant until I told her that Clive on security could confirm too about the package and stuff."

"and..."

"nothing she just said thanks Rich and hung up. so you gonna shoot me then"

"no, not this time bro.."

instead I grabbed him making him jump and hugged him tight and thumped him on the back thanking him.

letting go he relaxed back into the sofa, and with a wry smile he spoke "your welcome bro, I think," lifting his drink to his lips he downed it in one go and stood.

"well, I'm outta here, I meeting Teek and Dave in town for something to eat and hitting a bar with them after  too, you wanna join us?" "nah, I'm beat, I'm gonna catch up on my sleep, have a good time though yeah, and have a few for me."  laughing he continued, " ya can count on it ol man...We have a life ya know.."

I got up to show him to the door, "thanks again man, seriously, you are the best.."

another hug as he opened the door to leave, then a female voice was heard, "Jon"

rich pulled back the door so it was wide open, there stood before Rich and me was Dot.

 

 

 

Chapter Twenty

Back in the car with Alex, he told me Di had managed to move me to the Marriott a little further across town, the guys had decided they would stay at the Ritz Carlton to keep the press away for as long as they could; Rich was going to drop off my things later so not to arouse suspicion with the press too.

I sat back and thought on the conversation and meeting I had just had with Michael, I had to talk to Dot too and let her know the outcome, even though she was spitting mad with me, and more than likely would hang up, she had to be told.

Alex pulled up to the Marriott and with no press, getting settled into my suite at the Marriott was a breeze. How long it could be kept from the press though, was another matter.
It was a waiting game. Although the staff had been sworn to secrecy when money was offered its amazing how things slip out.

My suite was light and airy, furnished in pastel green and cream, with aqua accents, the usual things were accessible, mini bar, fridge full of snacks, together with coffee making facilities, TV, and everything else that's normal in hotel living.
I needed a drink, despite Michael being professional no drinks were offered and my throat was dry.  walking over to the fridge I opened the door and looked inside, a selection of alcoholic beverages were there, but I needed something to freshen my mouth so grabbed a bottle of water.

The drapes to the veranda were drawn and left the room looking dark, I needed light.
Daylight burst into the room as I opened the drapes and threw open the door, the breeze blowing through to the room clearing everything including the cobwebs that was haunting my mind. I stood overlooking the city and drinking the water that was chilled and soothed my throat as I drank.

Putting my bottle on the table, I pulled my cigarettes from my pocket, took one from the pack, lit it and inhaled deeply, the nicotine relaxing my body and mind allowing me to think about the call I was going to have with dot, I played it through over and over until I was comfortable in what I was going to say. As I threw the butt over the edge I thought about how Dot would have reacted to me smoking again. She had banned me smoking in the house and round the kids as she detested it; she asked over and over what was so enjoyable about smelling like an ashtray, which made me smile.

I really missed Dot. We had been through so much together; she was my rock always strong, independent and with her own voice. She refused to live in my shadow and had proved on more than one occasion her own strength.

Grabbing my water from the table I walked back into the room and across to the phone table; with
Phone receiver in my hand I dialled home. It rang and rang but eventually the phone was answered, "hello" Jesse had picked up the call.
"Jesse?"
"Dad?"
"Yeah, are you and the guys ok?"
"Were fine pop, but what's with mom, all she seems to do is walk around cussing you and crying, what's going on?"
It was clear that the kids had not seen the TV, which figured as they had so many outside activities they were never home long enough for TV, and they had heard crap from friends before, but unless they heard it from me or dot they always refused to believe it.
I knew my son needed to know, shit all my kids did, but now was not the time.
So I made out it was nothing.
Jesse seemed ok with my explanation as he continued the conversation.
"So, you want mom?"
"Yeah, please...."
"Ok, I'll go get her,"
"Jesse..."
"Yeah"
"You know I love you guy's right?"
"Course pop, you sure everything's ok?"
"Yeah, I'm sure, go get your mom."
"Ok"
I heard the receiver being laid on the table as Jesse set off to get Dot calling out for her. I waited and could hear the hallway clock ticking in the background. It was like it was ticking away the minutes of my life and I was on borrowed time, tick tock, tick tock, my thoughts were broken as dot picked up the handset and spoke.
"Jon?"
"Yeah"
"What do you want, I am right in the middle of teaching a Karate class, can this wait?"
"Sorry, but know it can't wait, I need to talk with you."
I was greeted by silence at the end of the phone. I spoke to check she was still there.
"Dot?"
"Yeah, I'm here, I'm waiting, can you hurry this up already."
frustration and lack of tolerance was noted in her tone.
"I have been to see my lawyer today, about everything that is happening."
"with your affairs right?"
"no Dot, with the stalker, I am not having a god damn affair, I wish you would believe me."
"Whatever Jon, I am tired of this crap, so what he say?"
"He is worried about you and the kids safety"
"Why?, that's bull, were fine."
"really are you? you receive a letter from someone that claims to have had sex with me and has a child and because she seems to have my features you automatically condemn me? that's not my Dot, or my wife."
"pretty strong evidence Jon, the child is the spitting image of you"
"Really so I am the only Bongiovi then that could be the pop right?"
"What?"
"What I am saying is, Rich remembered the girl and that Matt went out with her a couple of times on the last tour. instead of assuming I am guilty look for my innocence and trust me?"
I knew what I had said had given Dot reason for more thought.
"right, ok, well yeah that does shed another light on it, but I will talk with Richie too, your not off the hook yet."
"Hey that's fine, just give me a chance babe."
"So what this lawyer guy suggest then."
"He's applying for a restraining order, and wants me to increase security at the house for you and the kids. He said the restraining order may not stop her, but at least she can be arrested when she breaks it. I've spoken to Colin and he is sending over a team to sit and survey the house and make sure your all safe."
"Ok, but what if the kids ask questions about security Jon, they aint stupid ya know."
"just tell them the truth Dot. we have no reason to lie."
"Ok, but they will have questions."
"if they do they can ring me, and I will be home on Friday."
absent mindedly I lit another cigarette while on the phone. "You smoking again?"
"Yeah, I'm smoking to many right now."
"Well smoking aint gonna help is it?, apart from kill you quicker... Jon, quit the weed please, if not for me, for your kids. we all hate it, you know that."
"I will, I promise."
"Ok, right well I have to go, my class is waiting."
"Ok, fine, and Dot, Thank you..."
"for what?"
"for finally listening to me.."
"fine, look I'll talk later. bye"
the phone was hung up and left me with silence, but I felt far calmer than I had for ages, Dot had listened to me and we had a rational conversation, one without blame for a change. In my heart there was a new hope. stubbing out the but of the cigarette I left my room and decided I wanted some company and headed down to the hotel bar.

Chapter Nineteen

following my call with dot, added with the tv and the crap that took place outside my room with Antonia, I felt sick to my stomach, and my head was pounding.
Maybe the three glasses of wine on an empty stomach was not the best of ideas I'd had so far.

 

I needed pain killers, but I needed food too, acting on auto pilot and not really thinking I found some Tylenol in my bag, and took them then picking up the phone I ordered a sandwich and some juice from room service, then Sitting on the couch I rubbed my temples with my fingers and my head back, until room service arrived with my food cart.
As they knocked and called out, "room Service" I let the waiter in, then giving him a tip and dismissing him I closed and locked the door.

 

Lifting the cloche I took the sandwich and juice and relaxing on the couch ate in silence. I could not face watching the TV anymore, everything was twisted lies and left a real bitter taste and bile in my mouth and stomach, it was better just not watching anymore.

 

Finishing up my lunch, I checked the time, I had one hour before needing to be down town with my lawyer. grabbing my bag I headed to the bedroom and bathroom.

With a shower, a change of clothes and a shave I was all good to go.

 

I picked up the service phone to call my driver and have him meet me at the hotel entrance in five minutes, then grabbing my cap and glasses I made my way to the elevator.

 

The ride to the lobby was smooth, and I just prayed that there would be no press waiting as I got off.

the doors slid back, and as I stepped out I was relieved that all was clear, apart from some business men waiting on their rides it was empty.

 

Looking towards the entrance I could see my car waiting, all looked calm from where I was, but as I neared the door I could hear and see at least forty press and paps waiting for me. There was nothing for it I just had to push forward. The doorman saw me coming and opened the back door of the car for me to get in.

Moving out of the hotel onto the sidewalk, camera's flashed, and the reporters pushed their microphones into my face and all were screaming for me to answer there questions. I stayed silent and just pushed my way through.

 

within the safety of the car, Alex pulled away smoothly, and headed into the down town traffic, with no real holdups we were there in minutes, giving me plenty of time to prepare for my meeting,    

but as I was about to get out, I could not remember the name of the guy I was meeting with, having been so used to meeting Marc this was unchartered territory, and anyone that knows me will tell you I never sit well with change.

Taking my cell from my pocket I rang Diane. "Hey Di, what's the name of the lawyer I am seeing?"

her reply came, it was Michael Emerson. thanking her, I asked if she could make arrangements for me to use another hotel given that the press had now took up a camp out at the current hotel. She said she would take care of it and have all my things moved by the time my meeting was through. Thanking her I ended the call. Alex too knew the drill,  and as I got out of the car he went to park.  

Stood outside on the sidewalk I made my way through the revolving doors and into the lobby, and across to the reception desk. A pretty young girl was sat behind the big oak desk, with a headset on her head, "good Afternoon, Branson, Emerson and Fowler Law, How may I help you," busy answering the switchboard she raised her hand to acknowledge my presence.

she took two more calls before she gave me directions to the floor I needed.  Taking the elevator to the eighteenth floor I got off to meet another receptionist.
"Hi, Jon Bon Jovi to meet Michael Emerson."
"Thank you sir, please take a seat, I will be just one moment."
I decided I did not want to sit, and paced slowly round the waiting area, looking at the pictures and photographs that lined the walls. On the tables were magazines, and in the left hand corner a children's play den. My thoughts were interrupted as the receptionist called my name. "Mr Bon Jovi, this way sir, Mr Emerson is ready for you sir"
I followed her to the door and as she opened it, and stood to the side I walked past and entered the room.
"Mr Bon Jovi, " I walked forward towards a man that was no more than forty in years, with dark hair, glasses, a slight paunch to his belly and stood about 160 in height. his hand was outstretched to meet me, continuing walking over I shook his hand and sat. He did the same behind his desk.
"So, Jon, may I call you Jon?, Marc tells me you are having a nightmare with a stalker, and given the news reports I have viewed a pretty nasty and persistent young women?"
Having only just met this guy, I was not comfortable being called by my first name, given this was a professional meeting, but as pissed as that made me feel, I was here to sort this issues with Antonia, so agreed he could call me Jon. He was oblivious to my stink eye and rambled on. with my leg raised across my other leg, I listened and tried to relax.
"That's great, thank you, and please call me Michael, so shall we begin, can you tell me how this all started. "
For best part of an hour I sat telling of everything that had happened. What Michael asked next shook me,
"Do you feel that your life or your members of your family are in any danger from this women?"
I had thought about it, on more than one occasion and I had pushed the thoughts to the back of my mind, it threw me for a minute and I was lost for an answer straight away. Michael had a frown burrowed in his forehead as he pressed on and asked another question instead.
"Do you think this women has already involved your family?" This time I was stunned and had not even thought about that prospect. Answering I shocked myself with my response which sounded nervous.
"I don't know how to answer that, I had not given it any thought until you asked, but now you have I feel somewhat nervous. what would you suggest?"
"Jon, I find all this extremely disturbing, the photographs you have here show me she is past obsessed with you, and the video here, blackmail?, then the person abroad that is saying she has had your child, looking at the whole picture, if this was me, I would seriously worry about my safety and that of my family. Have you reported this to the police?"
for the second time in minutes I was stunned again, regaining my thought pattern I answered Michael.
Erm, what?, no, no I haven't contacted the police, I did not think there was anything they could do?"
"They can't right now, but we need this logged so we have a trail noted. All I can do for you legally right now is have a restraining order issued, but let me be clear, given what she has already done, I doubt this will stop her, but it will then allow the police to arrest her when she breaks the order, and sorry to say until she does something more threatening that's all we have at this time. What I need for you to do Jon, is any contact, any more letters, and more mail anything at all from this women you need to make notes for me, I need to build a picture of the harassment she is inflicting on you on top of what she has already done."
I listened taking in what I was being told, it didn't sit well with me, but with nothing else to do, I agreed.
"Great, I will apply to the court tomorrow for the restraining order, here's my number, ring me anytime Jon, we will stop this don't worry." he reached his hand out again and shook my hand, I returned the gesture and thanked him, and then left his office.




 

 

 

 

 

Chapter Eighteen

Looking at Antonia I could not believe the audacity of the women. With her long blonde hair left to lay loose, her low cut top, mini skirt and boots, and a truck load of make up, she derived that she looked hot.

 

Truth be known to me apart from despising her; I would equate her with being a street walker.

Trying to push past me, I held firm.

"You aint getting in there so back the fuck off, and what is your fucking problem huh?, why the blackmail?" I wanted answers but like before she ignored me, her response related to me leaving her out in the passageway.

"Oh c'mon, your not gonna leave Lil ol me out here are you?" she tried again to get past, but I stood firm blocking her attempt.

"You bet your sweet ass I am, what is it gonna take for you to realise I want nothing to do with you, and what's more I never will."

She stared at me with a hurt expression on her face,

"for the love of god," I shook my head in disbelief, and without speaking another word to her, I pulled my cell from my pocket, and dialed the front desk. The phone was answered quickly,

 " Good Morning The Ritz Carlton, Angelina speaking, How may I help you?"

"Yeah, good morning Angelina, please can you put me through to reception, this is Jon Bon Jovi in the penthouse,"

"Certainly sir, one moment please...." the beeps and short music interlude played in my ear, until I heard the phone being answered "reception "

I was watching Antonia closely while I spoke,
"  Yeah, good morning, please can you send security to the penthouse suite, it's Jon Bon Jovi, I've an intruder in my suite."

"would you like the police to attend also sir?"

Knowing she had not got into my actual apartment I declined the police, answering the receptionist "no, just security and the manager."

"right away sir."

 

Ending the call I slipped the phone back into my pocket, then just stood staring at her.

The arrogance she showed with her rye smile, and leaning back against the passage way wall, was totally unbelievable, and extremely uncomfortable, what worried me was I never knew what her next move could be and that smile was very un nerving, either way and no matter what crap she tried I wanted her out of my sight and hotel. 

hearing the elevator arrive, I figured it was seconds before she would be removed, by security and the manager, but until she was gone I did not want to sigh in relief, just in case. 

she glanced to the left as the elevator doors opened and security and the manager walked out and came toward her.

The manager spoke to me first, and eyed Antonia up and down, evidently impressed with how she looked and was dressed, equally he gave me a look to say I must be crazy to turn a girl like that away, the security guard who's name was Gene, as noted on his badge, stood just behind Gary, but said nothing. 

"Mr Jovi, good morning again sir, how can I help you?" 

I could not decide if Antonia was a bigger annoyance or the stupidity of the manager. 

Trying to keep my temper in check I replied, although with sarcasm. 

"are you for fucking real?" 

"I'm sorry sir, there really is no need for that type of language, I will assist you happily, but without your sarcasm please, I received a call to say you required my service, and that of security too, so please explain" 

Taking a real deep breath I exhaled and counted from ten back to one in my mind to halt the rising wrath of my Italian temper inside, I failed. 

"You dumb ass muther fucking assole, I have an intruder, trying to invade my privacy which your staff allowed to happen despite my requests to see no one unless you were told otherwise." 

I paused and  after taking a breath continued, 

" I rang front desk and told them what the problem was, so don't fucking lay it on you don't know why you're here, just get this muther fucking bitch away from me, my band and my room, Now!"  then stepping back inside my room I slammed the door shut.

With my heart pounding at a million beats a second, I sought my wine, grabbed my cigarettes and went out on the balcony. 

Lighting my cigarette I inhaled and held the smoke in, before letting it out, standing and looking out at the city I tried hard to calm down. 

Lost in thought I didn't hear my cell ring, it was only as I pulled it from my pants pocket to call Alex our driver to come get me and take me to my lawyer I noticed a missed call from Dot.

I returned the call and stood waiting for her to answer, she didn't and after five rings it went to her voice message. 

hearing her voice brought tears to my eyes, " Hey, you know the drill, speak after the beep, thanks" I was going to leave a message but feeling as pissed and now emotional as I did I left it and ended the call. 

Placing my cell on the balcony table I finished my cigarette and wine and went back inside my room, sitting on the plush sofa I laid my head back and closed my eye's, again trying to figure how all this shit got started, and to take a five minute breather, before calling Alex. 

I don't remember much more and I guess I must have fallen asleep, as the hotel room phone was ringing, rising I walked across to the desk and answered, 

"yo" 

"Jon?"

"Dot?, hey its nice...." 

"enough with the yada yada, turn on the T.V," 

Picking up the remote I clicked the set on, the usual daytime crap of talk shows was on, I flicked through the channels while dot spoke in my ear, " you got it yet?" 

"no, what channel?" 

"sixty seven, twenty four hour news!" 

I pressed in the numbers on the remote and waited as the tv took a second to catch up, as the chanel aired the newscaster was talking to a women known as women A, and next to her was another women known as women B, they were talking about me, and meeting up for sex when I hit there towns,

I stood looking at the screen in total shock, Dot brought me back to reality. 

"Jon, do you care for me or your kids at all?" 

"of course I do, don't believe this please Dot, i'm begging you? This is horse shit, it's all horse shit" 

Suddenly feeling weak my body began to  crumple, with the latest accusations I moved and sat on the sofa, with my head held low I listened with a broken heart to my wife crying on the phone. 

and for the first time in forever I prayed to god for help. 

Chapter Seventeen

As we pulled up to the Ritz Carlton there were no reporters or fans, our accommodation for now had not been leaked,  I was temporarily relieved,  it was nice getting out of the car and being able to walk up the steps to the hotel without being hounded.  As precaution, old habits die hard and I still wore my baseball cap and glasses and only removed them as we stood in the entrance to the hotel.

 

We all surveyed the lobby then made to start the walk to the check in when The manager who's name was Gary, presented himself in front of us, extending his hand he welcomed us all to the Ritz Carlton, telling  us there were bottles of champagne in all our rooms and that if we wanted to eat there; the six course meal was given as courtesy from the hotel. I replied for us all with a simple thank you. nodding he said,

"this way gentlemen to register" without talking we followed,  all checked in, we turning and headed towards the elevator, but were stopped when the manager could be heard calling my name.

"Mr jovi, Mr Jovi sir, one more thing" I turned and walked back and met with the manager coming towards me; 

"sir, can I enquire, should any female person arrive to the hotel requesting your room, what are your instructions?" he smiled at me and stood close and tapped his nose and winked an indication as to what he was talking about.

I could not believe the less than professional conduct of this man, it normally took a lot to piss me off but this guy had managed to do it in minutes of meeting me, something of a record.

Leaning in towards him, I snapped my reply,

" unless I tell you ahead of time I am expecting company of anyone male or female, you do not under any circumstances send them to my room,  or disclose by phone call or in person that i am staying in this establishment, I trust you can do that, you do seem reasonably intelligent?"
He stood looking at me, bright red in colour, then nodding his head he replied " but of course sir" adding as I walked back to the guys and the elevator

" just call front desk if there is anything I can do for you,"

with my back to him I raised my hand in gesture acknowledging him, and dismissing him at the same time. I missed the previous manager,

having stayed at the Ritz before Adrian was much better suited in his role and could carry off sincerity with dignity, this guy, well it was like eating loads of jello and ice cream and realising to late when you barf it was too much,  and I had no doubts at all that if the press came round looking for me, he would leak where I was in a second.

 

In my minds eye's this guy had no moral standards other than to better his own welfare and gain.

I was relieved we would only have to stay for two nights, and I would make a note to Di not to book us in to the hotel again unless the management had changed.

 

Catching up to the guys we made our way to the elevator and to our rooms,  Rich asked,

" you look pissed, everything alright?"

"Yeah, its good." I tried my best to smile but Rich knew me too well as did Dave and Teek,

"What the little shit want?"

" he wanted to ask if there would be any females calling to the hotel to see me, then tapped his nose and winked to let me know he understood."

"What a fucking ass"

"You told him right?"

"I politely put him in his place.."

"all three responded and at the same time,

"Yeah I bet you did"

Laughing the ride to our floor the banter between us was good.

 

As the elevator came to a stop, we exited and made our way to our rooms, the guys were in good spirits, It was rare, for us as mostly on tour when we arrived in town we would have had a gig the same night, but this was a rare rest day so the time now till tomorrow nights gig was totally our own. 

I knew my plans, I was meeting my lawyer but knowing the other guy's as well as I did I would bet $100 bucks that Teek and Dave would go out and take a trip out round the city, and Rich will just want to sleep, as he said to me on the drive over, I was to blame for him being awake most of the night, and what pissed him off was I wasn't the blonde he imagined staying up for.  

Saying bye to the guys I unlocked my door and walked into my suite, putting my bag on the floor, I needed a drink, opening the mini bar, I took out a bottle of chardonnay adding ice I poured the wine into a glass and walked around the room.

Opening the drapes and the veranda 

doors I stepped out onto the balcony, I surveyed the area and despite the hustle and bustle below, the tranquility from the pent house was alluring, I sat and just enjoyed being alone, it was easy to forget the stress of the last few days and I could feel my body now start to unwind, a big relief and help for when I met with one of the partners later, as my regular lawyer had been called away to some murder accusation, his secretary had rung to tell me the other senior partner Michael Ward would be meeting me, with my mind relaxing I felt great and ready to explain the dilemma I had been forced into, I was enjoying the break and tranquility when a knock on the door broke my concentration. 

Disgruntled I walked to the door and opened it, "Hey Jon baby, miss me?" total horror and disbelief as stood before me again was my nightmare Antonia. 

"what the fuck are you doing here? How the fuck you find out?" 

"Oh baby, that's easy, but I aint telling you all my secrets just yet" 

Chapter Sixteen

Matt had made up my sleeping quarters as I asked, and I was able to sleep for the flight,  well for an hour, and despite all the trauma I slept well.

 

Now I was getting up after Diane knocked on my door to tell me we were 20 minutes from landing at Cleveland Hopkins International.

 

Pulling on my pants and T, I joined the guy's in the main cabin and took my seat for landing.

Teek was reading a book, Dave was watching a movie and Richie was staring outta the window listening to the latest gadget in music his I pod, I did not get it, computer downloads? why? what was wrong with a disc or record anyway?, turning my head away, I glanced out of the window and then my watch, the time was 12.20pm, I was so lost in thought I did not hear Richie come over, ever since the shit began and Rich had made the appointment with my lawyer, that's all I could think on. I was convinced I had more legal rights than just taking out a restraining order.

As he sat opposite he asked,

"hey how you feeling?"

"ok I guess"

"Sleep well?"

"Yeah, not bad, just need more of it now."

"guess your gonna sleep at the hotel then eh?"

"umm, hope so."

"So you think there's gonna be a circus waiting at the terminal?"

"I guess so, they cant let this scandal not go un reported, guess we will have to do as before eh?"

"Who's our driver in Ohio?"

"Alex"

"He been told?"

"I guess, Barry normally radios ahead to let the team know what's going on."

"Want me to get Di to check."

"Yeah, good plan"

Richie got up from his seat and went to talk to Di who was sitting at the back of the plane near the office quarters.

As he sat when he came back he smiled, "She already taken care of it."

I felt a sense of relief, Di was a great help and knew me so well, and was efficient and took care of everything most times without me even asking, I guess that's why she had been with us for fifteen years.

 

The captain came over on the flight intercom, asking for everyone to put there seats back to the up right position and then reported the weather and current climate before wishing us well on the next leg of the tour. Tightening my belt, Rich clicked his in and we watched through the window as the ground became larger and we touched down on the tarmac, with the plane taxi -ing to his stand we started collecting our stowed bags then sat until the plane stopped.

 

There was a delay in the stairs being brought to the door as they were being used to off load a big liner, with the delay we all sat down and just waited, Di came over to speak to me, "Mr Jovi I have arranged for a car to be waiting at the bottom of the stairs, the driver will take you to the VIP immigration clearance., where when you exit the airport Alex your regular driver will be waiting for you. I have also been told by Alex there are a hand full of reports and photographers waiting, but he said they should not cause you to many problems."

 

"Thanks Di." she smiled as she went back to her seat. Minutes later the cabin door was un locked and we disembarked from the aircraft, as Di had said there was a car waiting to drive us to the VIP desk of immigration and clearance, we passed through easily and then walked to the exit where we could see the car and Alex waiting for us. 

Rich asked, " you want us to surround you like before or you good?"

"Stay close in case?"

the guys stood by my side and were ready to close in if needed. nearing the airport doors there were maybe seven or eight reporters not like back in New York where there were over a hundred, as we left the shouting of my name and same questions as before but no pushing or hounding or flash photographers in my face, we managed to get into the car and set off with out problem.

 

"What's are hotel here?"

"erm, one second I have that its the... er," Rich riffled through his bags for the details,  "C'mon rich were will be there and not know at this rate?"

"Got it, its the Ritz Carlton"

 

 

Chapter Fifteen

Reaching the revolving doors we all squeezed in and shuffled  through, immediately as I embarked on the sidewalk the press were surrounding us, I was possibly a metre from the car, but with the pushing and shoving and the camera's flashing, it was proving a far harder task than I thought. Dave cried out in pain as a photographer pulled him by the arm practically dislocating his shoulder trying to get a picture of me. The manager was being pulled in all directions but he stood firm and linked his arm with Tico and Richie to enforce the protection.

All I could see were flashes, but I kept my head down and just kept pushing forward,  and then my name, being called with questions over and over.

"Jon, over here, was the affair worth it?"
"Jon have you seen your baby yet?"
"Jon, why did you cheat?"
"Jon what does your wife say?"
"Jon five minutes..."
then flash, flash, when at last we broke through to the car door Tico wrenched it open for me to climb inside, quickly followed by Dave, Tico and Richie. with the door now pulled closed and locked I ordered Barry to take us to the airport.

The waiting press and fans then surrounded the car, and although the windows were blacked out at the back still the camera's were being flashed,  no angle to the shots, just camera's pressed to the glass and aimless shots being taken. the fans banging on the glass trying to break through to get to me, I looked at a couple then decided it was best to keep my head down, until Barry was able to drive through the rabble and hit the road.

It seemed like forever until we finally managed to break through and hit the open road, although I was not out of the woods as some of the press had taken to tailing my car to the airport.

Barry drove fast but safe and drove us to the  entrance to departures, now I was facing another inquisition I had to get through check in and security un hounded, pulling my glasses down we walked at a fast pace to the VIP check in desk, we had just checked in the last person when we heard the press running across the concourse of the airport shouting my name.
Like vultures circling there prey in seconds I was surrounded, microphones were placed at my mouth, camera's were pointed and shots taken, I was grateful to Richie who moved in between and grabbed my arm and marched me forward, they continued their pursuit until I arrived to go through security, but although they could not follow they still stood shouting my name and taking their random pictures, emptying my pockets of lose change and metal I walked through the detector, praying it did not bleep and I had to stand and endure the scanner being run over my body, some luck was going my way and I was soon on the other side away from prying eye's and the press.

I stood just to the left of the security area and could just see through the cracks of the room the press start to leave, all of them happy in that their quest was successful they had their pictures of me, although none had a story as such.

Richie joined me first, "You ok?"
"Yeah, fine, nothing I won't live through anyway, you?"
"yeah I'm fine, think Dave's in some pain though."
we stood waiting, Teek joined us next, and Dave came through last. "You ok Dave?"
"Yeah, think so, arm hurts a bit, but I'll live"
I had to thank Dave, well all the guys really,
"thanks Man, I really appreciate your help"
Dave smiled and said, "its fine long as you do the same for me someday?"
"I nodded and patted his arm which immediately caused him to wince., and then lead to me apologising.
Teek and Rich, were laughing, and both concluded right now I could not do right for wrong.
I had to admit it was nice having my brothers with me and we all walked laughing down to the departure gate ready to board our flight to Cleveland, despite the trauma all of our spirits were high.

Arriving at the departure gate, we walked along the galley tunnel and boarded the Jovi jet, Captain Preece Mulholland greeted us and welcomed us all aboard, he asked for us all to take our seats and get buckled up as he wanted to taxi so not to miss his slot.

With the hand baggage stowed we all sat, Diane walked past on route to her seat and handed me the papers from that morning, sure enough there plastered all across the front page of the Manhattan Echo was the story about me and the affairs and having a baby daughter.

Who the fuck had given these stories? I knew the answer to one, but no idea about who had told about the baby, anger was swelling in my gut again, and the sooner I met my lawyer, I figured the sooner I could end this shit, folding the paper having read enough of the trash; I threw it on to the table and with my head back and belt fastened I shut my eye's and prepared for take off.