Chapter 26: New Year's Eve

Three more days and 2012 will belong to the past. For the Timson family will be their first New Year's Eve in New Jersey so for the Sambora family. Pauline was studing her homework when her phone rung. It was her friend Ava. "Hello?" "Hey Pauline it's me Ava!" "Yeah, i know." "So, i'll get staight to the point. Alex has his birthday on the 1st of the January so in the first day of the new year. And guess what he found? Or better where we're gonna go?" "Where he is gonna take you?" "Oh no no! He's not take only ME!" "What do you mean?" "He has an invitation for 4 on...Six Stars!" "Where? YTou're kidding, right?" "No, i'm not kidding at all. And we thought that it would be a nice idea to go as couples, me with Alex and you with Jesse!" "Sure why not....I mean.....Six Stars...woh!! But where the hell hr found them?" "He knows people!" "Good then. I'll call Jesse and ask my parents and i'll let you know!" "Good. And wear something nice!" "Of course and i'll wear something nice!" "Good i'm waiting!" "Ok, see ya!" "See you!" Pauline answered and hung up the phone.

Who is she gonna tell that to her parents? They want to have a nice night at home. And just in a second their daughter is invited to best club in Jew Jersey for the New Year's Eve. Pauline put her phone to her dest and took a deep breath. It's now or never she told to herself.

Downstairs her mother was reading a book, as always and her father was watching a football game on the TV, as always. "Mom. Dad. I want to talk about something!" "Sure honey what is about?" her mother asked and she put away her book. "Well, as you know in three days 2012 will be gone." "Pauline you know that we hate prologues. Get to the point!" her father said as he closed the TV and turned to face her. "Well, Ava's boyfriend, Alex, has his birthday that day. And somehow he found 4 invitations for a club. Ava called me this morning and ask me if i can go with her and Alex!" "Well" her father started. "You know that is our first change of the year here and i want you all to be here!" "Yeah, dad i know!" "Listen Pauline." her dad started again. Pauline knows that her dad doesn't like that at all. She was soo afraid of his answer. "You can go!" Pauline was reliefed more than ever. She went a gave her dad a huge hug and two big kisses to his two cheeks. "Don't rest on young lady there are some rules! You will be in your bed at 3.00.  Don't drink very much. Don't talk to stangers. And take care of yourself!!" "Yes, sir. I swear i will not let you down. I swear to God! Thank you again daddy!" "And Pauline the invitation in for 4. Who will be the fourth?" her mother asked. "Ava said that is would be nice go as couples. So, she will go with Alex and i will Jesse!" "I can't wait to meet him!" her mother said a little exited. "I think you gotta love him." "I hope so." "So, Pauline what the name of the club?" her father asked suriously. "Six Stars!" "Six Stars? In Perth Amboy?" her father asked little worried. "Yes!" "Be careful there young lady. And when that Jesse arrived here to pick you up i'll hav a chat with him." "Dad please don't scare him!" "I'll not scare him. Will talk man to man." "Ok then. Thanks again. I'm going up to call him!" Pauline said and went to her room to call Jesse.

Jesse on the other part of the town was in his father's office playing the guitar his this father. The 'Because We Can-Tour' will start in a few weeks. So, the guys have a little more time to spend with their families before the toour will start. "Wrong key there man!" Jon said to his first son and he placed his fingers to show him the correct key. "Okay dad i got it!" Jesse said and continue playing and this time played to correct key. His phone was in the desk and start runging. Jesse put away his guitar and went to answer it. When he saw it was Pauline a big smile apperaed to his face. And Jon notised. "Hello beautiful!" Jesse said. "Hi gorgeous! I want to talk about something!" "Yeah... sure." "Well Ava called me this morning and she and Alex invited us to Six Stars for Alex's birthday. And my father let me go." "To Six Stars? Oh man i always wanted to go there! When are Alex's birthday?" "The 1st of Junuary." "Oh! So we have to be there on New Year's Eve?" "Right! Is that a problem?" "No no not a problem. I'll come and pick you up and go there together. Is that ok?" "It's fine. And when you'll come here my dad wants to talk to you man to man he said!" "Yeah!" he said rembere when his dad want to talk like man to man. "What time you'll came to pick me up?" "About 22.00!" "Ok, i'll be ready by then!" "Ok, honey see you there!" "Bye. I love you!" "I love you too!" Jesse said and hung up his phone and his smile was ear to ear. He'll spend the first hours of 2013 with the most beautiful girl on the planet. "That was Pauline right?" Jon asked his son with a smile. "Yeah!" "Are you going somewhere on New Year's Eve?" "Yes, on Six Stars with Pauline, Ava and her boyfriend." "Six Stars huh? You know that the tour will start in a few weeks, don't you?" "Yes, dad i know that but who many times i'll go to Six Stars with my girlfriend on New Year's Eve? Only one!" "Look Jesse i really want you to go there. I really do but i can't!" "Yes, dad you can. You're the Boss. You can do anything!" "I know how you feel right now. But we'll selebrate New Year's Eve here. Your grandparents will be here and all of your uncles and your cousins!" "No, dad. Why uncle Richie let Ava go? And you don't let me? And i'm 2 years older than Ava!" "Ava is a different situation!" "No, dad. Just uncle Richie is better father than you are!" These words were a knife throught Jon's heart. He couldn't believe that his son said that words. Jon was shocked while Jesse had already left him alone to his office. Jesse was heading to the kitchen to drink a glass of water. "I shouldn't had said that! God damn the Bongiovi fucking temper!" he tald to himself and he sut on a chair. His head on his hands. How that was possible? Pauline's dad let her go and his don't. All this because of  a fucking tour.

Jesse stund up from the chair he needed something stronger than water. So he put himself a cup of coffee and went to the living room. He sut on his favourite place, opposite form the fireplace. Now he watching that sparks than fire made and wishing he couldn't talk to his father like that. He drunk a sip from his coffee. Jon was watching him from the begining of the living room. He could feel that he was in pain. Jon took a few steps in order to get closser to him. He made a noice but Jesse didn't notised. "You always like sitting in front of the fire since you were a little boy!" he said his voise was calm. "May i sit?" Jon asked and Jesse nobbed. Jon sut next to his son watching the fire. "Dad i'm sorry. I shouldn't have talked to you like that. I know that with the job you're doing you really miss us. And we miss you a lot. And i understand that when you're here, at home, you try to replenished the time you lost when you're away!" Jesse said and looked him in his eyes. "Look Jesse, i know how you're feeling right now. I was in your position many years ago. Your mother and i we just starting dating. It was New Year's Eve on 1979 if my memory don't fool me. And the band i was in we had a day off to spend this day with our families. When i told to your grandfather that i want to go out with my girlfriend he said that i don't and i'll stay here to help my mother make the dinner. I was so mad at him. I went to my room and i started thinking what i can do to go away. As you know when i was a kid i wasn't an angel. So i put some pillows under my bed and left from the window and went to find your mother. That night was one of the best in my whole life. I was saving money from the summer to go there. But my little story had no happy end. When i came back my father was waiting me in the living room. And then we had a fight. I didn't play a gig for the next three months and he also took my carkeys and he was driving me to school. And now you're in my position and i don't want to do the same with me. Because you'll try the window and it's a little high. To sum up i'll let you go!" Jon opened his heart to his son. He was more honest than ever. Now Jesse was in shock. "Dad you never told that story before!" "I was waiting the best time!" "Thanks dad!" Jesse said and hugged his father. "You're the best father i could ever ask for! And i'm sorry if my words hurt you. I have to deal with my Bongiovi temper!" "Good luck with that son! You'll need it!"

Three days later. Pauline hasn't know yet what she'll wear. It was the first time she'll spend New Year's Eve without her parents but with her boyfriend. She was starring at her closet for the last three hours and she doesn't know yet. She thought that music might help. So she found her phone and pushed the play botton. Three songs later If God Was A Woman by Richie Sambora came out.

 Pauline start singing and when she sung 'If God was a woman would you be impressed if she showed up in high heels and a pretty red dress'. A few miliseconds later she understand what she sung and that was. She stand up and start searching for the red dress that her father bought her on the Easter. She remembered that she bring it with her but she didn't know where she put it. Finally she found it on the last hanger on the left side of her closet. It was inside a black bag in order to keep it clear. Pauline put it out of the hanger and place it on her bed. She slowly unzipped the zipper and here it was. The red dress was at the hight of her knees. It was tight and she thought Jesse will love it. She smiled at her thought, Jesse. She shooked her head to clear the thought and came back to the beautiful red dress.

Now, she was wondering if she was fitting in. It's been a long time since the last time she weared it. Without losing any minutes she weared the dress. It was fitting her like a glove. It was perfect for her. Now, the lasy detail was the shoes.

She left her room and went to her parents room to find high heels. She opened her mother's closet and on the bottom she founds packs of shoes. She opened them all. She has to find back high heels whick will match perfectly with her red dress. She opened to her last box and there they were. A pair of beautiful high heels.

Then she put back the boxes and went to her room to get ready for the big night. She showered and shaved. But the times wasn't with her side. She checked her phone it was 21.15 when she got out of the shower. She has to be fast if she wants to be ready when Jesse will arrived.

She quickly weared her red dress and her mother's black high heels. She was at the mirror fixing her hair and putting some make-up on when she heared the doorbell.

Downstairs Zeta went to answer the door. "Hi. You must be Jesse. Come in!" Zeta said with a smile. "Thank you, Zeta!" Jesse answered and walked in the house. In the living room Kostas and Katerina were waiting for him. "Hello Mr and Mrs Timson! I've heard so much about you!" Jesse said without forgetting his manners than his mother teached him. "We've heard so much about you too! Have  a sit. Do you want anything to drink?" Katerina asked. "A glass of water will  be fine Mrs Timson!" Jesse answered and he sut on the couch. "So, Jesse where do you live?" Kostas asked. "My family and i live in Sayreville here in New Jersey,sir." "Any brothers and sisters?" "No, sir. I'm an only son." "Good. Now, i want to talk to you lake man to man. You already know that Pauline is 2 years younger than you. Today is her first New Year's Eve that will spend out of the house. She's my girl and she always be. And i want you to take care of her tonight and all that time you will be together!" "I promise sir i'll never bag happend to Pauline. I promise i'll not let you down, sir!" "Good. I told her that at 2.00 she must be at home." "She'll be sir!" "Thank you!"

Moments later Pauline was ready. She stand in the bigging of the stairs. She slowly start walking down to the living room. Both men and her mother heard the footsteps and got up. Jesse made his way in front of the stair. And here she was walking down the wooden stair. She was so beautiful with that tight red dress. Her dark brown hair were in a little curles at the hight of her shoulders. Her eyes were shining as always. And her lips. Her lips were pink and he couldn't wait to taste them. "You look stunning, Pauline!" Jesse said when Pauline walked down the stairs. "Thank you. You look so gorgeous!" "Thank you!" "Be careful there and dron't drink too much!" her father said. "Yes, dad." "And don't be late!" her mother added. "Ok,mum!" "Have fun!" Kostas said as the young couple had made its way to Jesse's car.

Jesse opened the door and let Pauline climb in his car. Jesse made his way to the driver's seat. The club was about 30 minutes. At the route they talked about their days. When the arrived at Six Stars Ava and Alex were there waiting for them.

All four went into the club. It was defently the best club that they had ever gone. It was huge and the atmosphere was really cool. They sut in a table that Alex reserved for the day. A few minutes later a waitress  came to take their orders.

In 30 minutes will be 2013 and Alex will be sixteen. After their drinks arrived they start talking about everything it crossed their minds. It was a nice company and a funny one.

While they talking a guy took a microphone and said "Good evening ladies and gentleman! I hope you have a great time here in Six Stars. Now, i want all of you to stand up with your drinks in your hand and your boyfriends-girlfriends on the other. Is time to say goodbye to 2012 and welcome to 2013! Let the countdown begin!" "TEN" "NINE" "EIGHT" "SEVEN" "SIX" "FIVE" "FOUR" 'THREE" "TWO" "ONE" "HAPPY NEW YEAR!!" all said.

"Happy New Yea..." Pauline started but Jesse stoped her. "You must make a wish first baby!" "Ok!" "I wish i'll past the rrest of my life with Jesse in my side!" Pauline wished. "Hey Jess you must make a wish too!" "Ok!" "I wish i'll past the rest of my life with Pauline in my side!" Jesse wished and smiled to Pauline.

Now, it was time for Alex to take his birthday presents. "Happy birthday Alex!" Pauline said first and gave him his gift. "Thanks Pauline! And you shouldn't have bought me a present!" "No, i had. I hope you like it because i went to more than ten stores!" Alex opened his first present and i was a green shirt that matches perfectly with his green eyes. "Oh Pauline thank you. I love it!" Alex said and hugged her. Then Jesse and Ava gave their birthday girfts to Alex.

"Ava let's go dance!" Alex said and gave his hand to Ava to stand up and went to the dance floor. Now, it was Jesse and Pauline. Jesse took a sip of his drink and said "Hey, Paul would you like to teach these kids how do dance?" "What's on you little, dirty mind of yours? And why you called me Paul?" "Follow me and will see!" before Pauline could answer Jesse took her hand and went to the dance floor next to Ava and Alex.

The music wasn't for slow dances. Just the opposite. It was the music that teenagers used to listen and dance. Mostly rap songs and some remixes.

And then the love songs came. The songs for the lovers. Jesse took Pauline tp his side. He placed his hands on her waist. She placed her hands to his shoulders and her head was on his hard chest. They were start dancing slow. "You know and if i've never told you i just want you to know you had me from hello!" she wishper to his ear. Her breath was hot to his ear and that make his feel sick for two reasons. First, that was driving him crazy. And second, he recognize the lyrics. She was defently a very big fan and she was. "I can say that too, Paul!" "Why Paul?" "Because you're dressed like that. And i love that tight red dress. And i call you Paul just calm myself! Do you have problem with that?" "No. Just my friends called me Paul!!" Jesse didn't answer with words he answered with actions. He kissed her passionately. She let his tongue explore her mouth while she was doing the same with her tongue.

They were dancing for almost 2 hours bit the good thing don't last forever. Both had to be home. Jesse had promosed to his father that would't take long. And to Pauline's father that will take care of her and take her home safe and sound. So it happend.

Jesse pulled to Pauline's driveway and he stopped outside of her house. "Jesse thank you for tonight. I love it!" "I have to thank you. If you weren't i would have spend one more New Year's Eve at home!" "Why you didn't told me that you dance like that?" "You mean in slow dances?" "And that but mostly the other dances! You were pretty cool!" "Thank you, Paul!" Then they said they kissed goodbye and Jesse left Pauline to her house and took his way back home to Sayreville.

Chapter 25: Misunderstood

Pauline and Ava start getting ready for the performance. "Pauline please pass me your mascara!" "No!" "Why?" "Because you're Jon Bon Jovi and i don't think that he uses mascara!" "Oh! I've totally forget it. But what i'm gonna do with my hair?" "Mmmhmm! You can put them in a ponytail or leave them down. Whatever you like the most!" "I'll take the second!You?" "I'll do the same." "Good. Now go to get dressed." "I don't know where my bag is!" "Is right there on the corner. You left it there when we're back from the studio!" "Oh yeah! I've forget it." Pauline said and bring her bag while Ava was already dressed with the red jacket and a black pair of jeans and black shoes. "Are you ok?" She didn't answer. "PAULINE!" she yelled "What is it?" "Are you ok?" "Now, i'm ok.Ask me when we're on the school!" "Don't be silly! We'll do it just fine! And gorfet Jesse will be with us!" "Yeah i know. But all this is alittle weird. I mean playing live 3 songs of my favourit band and one of them we'll be there watching us! That makes things more complicated!" "That's why you're like this? I should have know this. You don't have to worry about this. I sure he wish he could play like you can at this age!" "Do you really believe that?" "Of course and i believe this! Now no more worries. We have some asses to kick!" "Ok. I'm going to change!" "Ok, i'll be right here!"

After 5 minutes later Pauline walked out. She was wearing a tight black pair of jeans with the 'Blessed' t-shirt. On her head was Richie's cowboy hat. Her dark brown hair were in the same height as Richie's in the 80's and the early 90's. "Whoa! And now i can imagine how my dad was in the 80's!" "Do you think so?" "Yeah! Does he gave you his hat? He don't even allow me to touch it!" "Nope. I made it!" "Good job! Is seems the same!" "Thanks!" "Now let's go!" "It's time!" Pauline answered and took a deep breath.

They went downstairs Ava in the front and behind her Pauline with her giutar case in her hands. Downstairs Richie was waiting with the car keys on his hands. Joan was next to him. "Holy fuck!" Richie said when he saw them on the stairs. "Richard Stephen! Language!" "I'm sorry ma!" The girls were completely come down the stairs and stand in front of them. "Girls you look so stuning!" Joan said. "Thank you grandma!" Ava said. "Come on my girls! Let's go, we're late!" Richie said and went to the door. "When he say 'my girls' he meant and me?" Pauline whispered on Ava's ear while they walked out of the house. "Yeah! He really likes you. I hope he doesn't want to marry you!" "Yeah me too!" Ava raised an eyebrow. "For two reasons. First, do you know how many woman will hate me? And second the only man i want to marry is Jesse!" "I'll not commeny the first reason. BUt for the second i agree!" "Me too. Now get in!" Pauline answered and Ava got in the car and sut on the backseat with Pauline next to her.

The four of them get in Richie's Hammer and start for the school. Almost halfaway on the route Pauline phone rung. It was her jovi sister Maria. "Greet the the luckiest jovinator ever!" "Hey you! How things are going in Greece?" "Pretty good. Are you on the road?" "Yes, how do you know?" "You said the the perfomance starts at 20.00 and you have to be an hour before. I remember that your house in 30 minutes away from school. And then the time deference and i find it!" "Woah! You din't do that this often!" "Yeah, i said do it once in a while!" Richie turned on the radio and when Maria finished her setence Every Road Leads Home To You intro started. All start looking to each other and from Pauline's phone the intro heard loud and clear. "Oh my God it's Every Road! How you ever hear it on the radio? I've never! Please tell your dad to turn the volume!" "No, i din't! Please wait a second!" "Hey Rich could you please turn the volume?" "Yes madame!" he answered and turn the volume. "Thank you!" "Happy now?" "I heard right? Did you said Rich?" "You heard right?" "You are in Richie's car?" "Yes!" "You're a LUCKY BITCH!" "Yeah, i know i am. But isn't it weird to hear this song with all of his family?" "What?Is his mother with you?" "Yes!" "Of course and she is!" "You are kidding? How is she?" "Adoranle and a great cook!" "Lucky bitch!" "A! The mistery is solved! He missed her birthday!" "I know it. And you answered him what we planed?" "Yeah and he said that i think more than he thought! Now this is good or bad?" "Darlin' whatever he say is for good!" "Well i gotta go now. I'll call you tomorrow!" "Ok good luck!" "Thank you!"

They arrived at school and Richie parked his car. The girls went straight to backstagewhile Joan and Richie went to find Pauline's parents. On backstage Alex and Zack were their earlier. Ava went and hugged Alex "I missed you Ava!" he said when they broke apart "I miss you too Alex!" Ava ansswered and they kissed. Zack was looking for a long time Pauline "What's wrong Zack? The clothes don't suit me?" "NO, you look gorgeous!" "Thanks you too! Who did you do your hair?" "My sister help me!" "Gongratulations to your sister! Very nice curles!" "Thanks he answered and tried not to bluss.

About 20 minutes later everything was ready to begin. Pauline was still nervous. She wanted to find her parents in the audience. While she was looking for them from the corner her eyes caught something else. "No, this is not happening!" She looked next to David it was Tico. Next to Tico was Jon with Dorothea and next to them were Jake and Romeo. "SHIT!" she said and Ava who was behind she hear her. "What's happend?" "Look!" she said pointing them "My uncles are here to hear us!" Ava answered calmy "Now i'm more nercous than before!" "I think i know a person that can makes you forget everything!" she said and left.

Just one minute later Jesse came. Pauline was sitting with her back turning on him so she didn't see him. Jesse put his arms around her waist and kissed her to her low neck her favourite spot. Pauline turned and say "You came!" and she gently touch her lips to his. "I would miss it for the whole world!" he answered and he kissed her. "Nervous baby?" "From the time you're here, i'm not!" Jesse didn't answer he just hugged her tight. He knew that it was the only thing that she could calm down and he was happy to be the only who can give her that.

The perfomace has already started. They had sung the first two classes. Pauline, Ava, Zack and Alex were on the fourth. They will go on stage last after 'Guns N' Roses'. Thye minutes passed and Pauline was still in Jesse's hug. Ava came and said that after them was their turn. They didn't have much time. "I think i should go to my seat and enjoy you!" "No, please don't leave! I want to stay here!" "Baby i want to stay here too but we have to!" "Yeah, you're right!" she answered and walked away from Jesse's hug. "Does anyone told you who sexy you look on tight jeans?" "No." "Trust me, very much! I'll try to contrlo myself tonight!" "Me too!" Ava came running and said "Pauline come. This is their last song!" "I'm coming!" she answered. "That's it. Good luck. But i'm sure you wouldn't need it. You'll kick their asses!" They kissed for one more timeand Jesse left. Pauline took her guitar and went to fing the other guys. It is show time.

"Ladies and gentleman let's welcome on stage our last contestants. We have Ava Sambora on vocals. Pauline Timson on guitar. Zack Richards on keyboards. Alex Wilson on drums. Please welcome 'Bon Jovi'!!" Mr Backett said.

The light went down while the audience was aplauded. Jesse's seat was just opposite from Pauline seat on stage on the last raw. On the other side was his family. They kids went on stage and the aplause was getting louder and louder. Ava approached the microphone and said "Good evening form us. I hope you have a great time. If yes get ready fom more!" The light went to Pauline as she started the opening chourd of I'll Be There For You and Ava start singing.

I guess this time you're really leaving

I heard your suitcase say goodbye

Well as my broken heart lies bleeding

you say true love is suicide

You say you've cried a thousand rivers

And now you're swimming for the shore

You left me drowning in my tears

And you won't save me anymore

Now I'm praying to God you'll give me one more chance, girl

I'll be there for you

These five words I swear to you

When you breathe I want to be the air for you

I'll be there for you

I'd live and I'd die for you

I'd steal the sun from the sky for you

Words can't say what love can do

I'll be there for you

I know you know we've had some good times

Now they have their own hiding place

Well I can promise you tomorrow

But I can't buy back yesterday

And Baby you know my hands are dirty

But I wanted to be your valentine

I'll be the water when you get thirsty, baby

When you get drunk, I'll be the wine

I'll be there for you

These five words I swear to you

When you breathe I want to be the air for you

I'll be there for you

I'd live and I'd die for you

Steal the sun from the sky for you

Words can't say what a love can do

I'll be there for you

[Solo]

And I wasn't there when you were happy

I wasn't there when you were down

I didn't mean to miss your birthday, baby

I wish I'd seen you blow those candles out

I'll be there for you

These five words I swear to you

When you breathe I want to be the air for you

I'll be there for you

I'd live and I'd die for you

Steal the sun from the sky for you

Words can't say what a love can do

I'll be there for you

When the song finished the aplause started for one more time. Ava went to the microphone and said "Thank you very much. The next song is one of my favourite, i hope you like it!" Zack started the intro of Bed Of Roses. Pauline while she was playing was trying to find her parents. Finally she found them in the middle and next to them were Richie with his mother and his other bandmates. Ava start singing.

Sitting here wasted and wounded 

at this old piano 

Trying hard to capture 

the moment this morning I don't know 

'Cause a bottle of vodka 

is still lodged in my head 

And some blond gave me nightmares 

I think that she's still in my bed 

As I dream about movies 

they won't make of me when I'm dead 

With an ironclad fist I wake up and 

French kiss the morning 

While some marching band keeps 

its own beat in my head 

While we're talking 

About all of the things that I long to believe 

About love and the truth and 

what you mean to me 

And the truth is baby you're all that I need 

I want to lay you on a bed of roses 

For tonite I sleep on a bed on nails 

I want to be just as close as the Holy Ghost is 

And lay you down on bed of roses 

Well I'm so far away 

That each step that I take is on my way home 

A king's ransom in dimes I'd given each night 

Just to see through this payphone 

Still I run out of time 

Or it's hard to get through 

Till the bird on the wire flies me back to you 

I'll just close my eyes and whisper, 

baby blind love is true 

I want to lay you down on a bed of roses 

For tonite I sleep on a bed on nails 

I want to be just as close as the Holy Ghost is 

And lay you down on bed of roses 

The hotel bar hangover whiskey's gone dry 

The barkeeper's wig's crooked 

And she's giving me the eye 

I might have said yeah 

But I laughed so hard I think I died 

When you close your eyes 

Know I'll be thinking about you 

While my mistress she calls me 

To stand in her spotlight again 

Tonite I won't be alone 

But you know that don't 

Mean I'm not lonely I've got nothing to prove 

For it's you that I'd die to defend 

I want to lay you down on a bed of roses 

For tonite I sleep on a bed on nails 

I want to be just as close as the Holy Ghost is 

And lay you down on bed of roses 

While Ava was singing she wanted to look into Alex's eyes that's why somtimes she looked at him and smiled. Alex was luckier than all. Ava was just in front of him. He couldn't take his eyes of her. He knows why they had choose to sing ballads. On the other side of the stage Zack was opposite to Pauline. From the first day he saw her in the class he felt something about her. And when she was in the same team with him in the music class he couldn't hide his happiness. But the key from the paradise of her heart belongs to Jesse.

Finishing the second song with aplause biger than the first. Ava took a step forwoard and said "Thank you very much. Now for the last song we choose one more ballad with video clip that matches with the season!" They started All About Lovin' You intro. Ava took the microphone with her two hands and start singing for the last time tonight.

Looking at the pages of my life

Faded memories of me and you

Mistakes you know I've made a few

I took some shots and fell from time to time

Baby, you were there to pull me through

We've been around the block a time or two

I'm gonna lay it on the line

Ask me how we've come this far

The answer's written in my eyes

Every time I look at you, baby, I see something new

That takes me higher than before and makes me want you more

I don't wanna sleep tonight, dreamin's just a waste of time

When I look at what my life's been comin' to

I'm all about lovin' you

I've lived, I've loved, I've lost, I've paid some dues, baby

We've been to hell and back again

Through it all you're always my best friend

For all the words I didn't say and all the things I didn't do

Tonight I'm gonna find a way

Every time I look at you, baby, I see something new

That takes me higher than before and makes me want you more

I don't wanna sleep tonight, dreamin's just a waste of time

When I look at what my life's been comin' to

I'm all about lovin' you

You can take this world away

You're everything I am

Just read the lines upon my face

I'm all about lovin' you

 Solo

Every time I look at you, baby, I see something new

That takes me higher than before and makes me want you more

I don't wanna sleep tonight, dreamin's just a waste of time

When I look at what my life's been comin' to

I'm all about lovin' you

Pauline while she was playing was trying to find Jesse. She have to find him. This song was one that descibes what she felt about him. Finaly she found him. Opposite from her on the last raw looking at her. Her eyes locked with his. They maybe be apart but he felt like she was there next to him. Or better they were alone and singing together this song. He could feel who passion she felt just looking in her brown eyes. On the solo brow eyes met blue and stuck here for several seconds. This time Jesse felt an onother pair of blue eyes looking at him, his father's.  He has his seat in a place that he can contact with him. Jon from the begging of the song he was looking Pauline and Jesse. He could understand from the way they look each other that they are in love. When Jesse turned and face him Jon wiked at him and Jesse did the same.

When the perfomance was over everyone went on the stage to hear the results from the judges. The principal start announcing the results an he finaly arrived at the last class. "The two finalists from A4 class are..." he paused "Plaese step forwoard to... 'Guns N' Roses'!!" Mr Backett said and the audience start aplaused. "And now the last of the rock bands..." "I remind you that the contestants will perform 10 songs in front of all school. The students will vote their favourites. The winner or the winners will have a check of 250$ !" "So,the second finalists are... 'Bon Jovi'!!" Mr Backett said and they hear a "Yeah!" that came from the four kids. The audience stand up and aplauded. They deserve it.

Then they all went to backstage. Other they were sad and other they were happy. Ava was as always in Alex's arms. Zack hugged Pauline. Now he has  the excuse to huf her. But Pauline wasn't feel like that about Zack. He was her friend and nothing more at least for the moment. Wondering if Pauline will find out how Zack feels about her. 

Jesse whes heard that they passed he went backstage. On his way he saw them. Pauline... his Pauline was in onother man's arms. The well known Bongiovi temper was sold. With big and quick steps he walked to their side. Pauline saw him coming angry so she left from Zack's arms. "Pauline what's going on?" he asked. "Nothing is going on Jesse!" " You were hugging him!" he answered and he start loosing his temper. "Jesse calm down we didn't do anything bad. We just hugged because we make it. That's all!" Pauline expleined but Jesse didn't believe her. "Look Jesse Pauline is telling the truth we didn't do anything. I know that she's with you and i will never do anything!" Zack added. "Jesse this is the truth. And try not making fast conclusions!" "Oh! Pauline i'm soo sorry! I saw you hugged and i thought that... you know. I'm soo sorry i should have a little faith in you!" Jesse apologiesed looking Pauline in her eyes. "Jesse it's ok! And before you make fast conclusions think!" "So we're okay?" "Yeah, you're okay!" she answered and they hugged in from of Zack. This moment he felt his heart broke into a milions little pieces AGAIN. "I have to go!" he saidquickly and left. "Congratulations! You see i'll told youyou'll make it!" "Thanks! Do you like it?" "I don't like it, i love it! Maybe music is your destiny!" "I'll never quite volley!" "Ok ok! Nervous for June?" "You have alot of time ahead of us!" "Yeah, you have! Let's go now!" "Yeah about that! I'm sorry of saying this but we can't leave together. My parents are here and i'll go home with them!" "Oh! Alright then. I'll call you tommorow to hung out or something!" "Ok, i'll wait! Bye!" "Bye!" Jesse said and left.

A few minutes later Pauline and Ava were looking for their families. After several minutes of searchjing they found them all together talking. When Romeo saw Ava coming he run to her side yelling "AVA!!" When he came close to her Ava hugged him and said "Hello little man!" Romeo looked her with his stink eye "Oh! Sorry big man!" "That's better!" Romeo turned to Pauline "Hi! My name is Romeo." "Hello Romeo. I'm Pauline!" "Pauline you're beautiful!" "Thank you very much. But the gorgeous here is YOU!" Pauline said and Romeo blussed. "My daddy should hear this!" he answerd and left. The girls follow him. "Here are the winners!" Kostas said when the girls arrived. "And Richie Sambora in female edition hits again!" David joked. "Please David stop that. I'm not!" "Yes, you're!" Richie answered "No, i'm not!" "Yes, you're!" "GUYS!" Tico yelled "I'm sorry!" Richie said first. "And the Leo attacked to our little Cancer!" Davis joked again and everyone laughed exept Richie and Pauline. "I didn't attacked to 'our little Cancer'! And who do you know that i'm Leo?" "Richie told me!" David said pointing Richie. "Ava told me!" Richie said pointing Ava "What? You know my zodiac and now i know yours!" "Ok!" "Hey Pauline Romeo told me that you found him gorgeous. Gorgeous than me?" "NO? You just said NO? So is not me, Richie?" "No." "David?" "Nope!" "Tico?" "Nah!" "What the hell? You don't have a favourite member?" "No, i love you all and i can't pick any of you!" "Good answer!" Tico said with a proud smile.

They talked for several minutes and then everyone went home.

congratulations

congratulations

congratulations

Chapter 24: The Last Rehearsal

Two weeks later Ava, Alex, Pauline and Zack were at the restaurant at school. This Saturday will be the Christmass celebration and they must do their last rehearsal. "So, we didn't decided yet!" Zaack said looking the other three. "Why don't you come to my house because is little hard to move the drums!" Alex said "i can't move the piano either!" Zack answered. "What opotions we have?" Alex asked and looked to Pauline "Don't look at me! If you come to my house you two have to move your insruments! I'm the easy one, i can take my guitar anywhere!" "That's right! We have one option left!" Zack said and all looked at Ava who was eattting. "What are you looking at?" she asked but she didn't get an answer. "Fine! You can come to my place. We have them all!" "That's perfect! But what time?" "About 20.00?" Ava said and all nodded. "A! My grand-mother will be at home for Christmass i hope you don't mind!" "I don't mind at all, i always wanted to meet her!" Pauline said first. "Me too! I don't know if Alex has a problem meeting all the family!" "No, i don't!" Alex said and pushed Zack's shoulder.

Friday night was the day of their last rehearsal foe tommorow's performance. All four wanted to pass and will do their bast to make this happend. This night Ava had invited Pauline to sleep together and then they will go together to the school. They were at the studio. " So, which song we play first?" Alex asked "I say we play them chronological!" was Ava's answer "You mean 'I'll be there for you' , 'Bed of roses' and 'All about lovin' you'?" Pauline asked "Yeah!" "Nice let's begin!" Zack suggested and all went to their positions.

The rehearsal didn't last so long. They had played the songs more that 10 times and they couldn't fix anything. When Alex and Zack left Pauline, after taking her things, and Ava went to the house. There found Richie and Joan sitting on the couch. When the girls came in came in both got up. "Pauline i like you to meet my grandmother Mrs Joan Sambora!" Ava said and they shook hands "Nice to meet you Mrs Sambora!" "It's nice to meet you too. I've heard so much about you!" "Really?" Pauline asked supriced. "Yeah! I'm very happy that my grand-daughter has a friend like you!" "Me too!" Pauline answered and looked Ava. "Pauline please do me a favour, call me Joan!" "Ok...Joan!" "Good! Now, Ava why don't you take Pauline upstairs to change clothes and i'll make dinner?" Joan asked. "Okay, we're going!" Ava said and both went upstairs. They walked in and Pauline left her giutar case on the corner. "Do you want to change clothes?" Ava asked "Actually yes! If you want it too!" "I was praying to say that!" "Nice! Do you wear pijamas?" "No, i'm sleeping with pants and a t-shirt. You?" "Me too! And this the same?" "Haha1 One more in common!" Pauline said and opned the other bag. She put out a pair of black pants that she bring with her "SHIT!" she yelled. "What happend?" "You're very lucky that you don't have any siblings! I'm gonna kill! I hope you come and visit me on the prison!" "What she did now?" "What she did? This!" she answered and show the t-shirt. Ava start laughing loud and loud. "Stop laughing! This is not funny!" "Okay i stop!But i want to see you going downstairs with this!" "Oups! I forget that! What if i'll wear it on the other side?" "He'll get it!" "Alright, i'll wear it! But stop laughing!" "Ok! Let's go!" "Why don't we stay here until they call us? Please!" Pauline said with the puppy look "Okay! But it suit you!" "Thanks!"

A several minutes later the loud and strong Richie's voise said "Ava! Pauline! Come here!" "The time of crisis!" "Okay, continue fooling on me! But i'm really screared of their reaction. Espacially your grand-mother's. What she'll tell?" "I don't know but i don't wont to miss it!" Ava answered and together went downstairs.

When they went downstairs Ava thought that Pauline was following her but she didn't. "Whare is Pauline?" Richie asked. Ava turned back and she was missing. "PAULINE TIMSON! COME HERE NOW!!" Ava yelled. Pauline walked into the kitchen. Richie and Joan read her t-shirt 'I'm lost. Please return me to Richie Sambora!'  "I like your sence of houmor, Pauline!" "Thanks, me too. But there is a very nice explanasion. The afternoon when i was getting ready to come here i put an onther t-shirt with me. But when you have a sister like mine everything is possible!" "It's okay! That was very funny. How did you thought it?" "I don't know! It came to me at school last year!" "And do you have others or only that?" "I have 7 more!" Pauline answered. All together sut in the table for dinner that Joan cooked. All were eating exept Pauline who was playing with in. They noticed but none say it. “Pauline you don’t like the food?” Richie asked. “No, the food is delicious! Is something else.” “What is it?” Ava asked with considering look. “I think you know how is it!” “What do you mean I don’t understand!” “Well, 7 years ago my grandfather, John, passed because of lung cancer.” “Oh! Pauline I’m so sorry! We didn’t know!” Richie said and placed his hand on Pauline’s shoulder. “Richie is ok. You didn’t have to know that!” she answered. “One more in common!” Ava said trying to make her laugh and she make it. “Yeah, one more in common!” “What else do you have in common?” Joan asked. “We have the same height, the same sunglasses, we sleep in the same position and the same Horoscope!” Pauline answered. “And we both love music!” Ava added.

For the next hours Pauline,Ava and Richie were playing board games. Joan was sitting with them and watcing. While they were playing Pauline phone rung. It was from her house. “Hello!” “Hello Pauline! What are you doing?” “Playing boared games with Ava and Richie!” “Who is winning?” “Ava!” “Nice! Did you ate?” “Yes, mum I ate. Zeta is there?” “Yes, she is! I’m giving you her!” “Hello?” “RICHARD STEPHEN SAMBORA!” Pauline yelled and Richie lift his head and said “What? I didn’t do anything!” “I know! I’m talking to my sister!” “You find it out?” “Yes! Do you think that is funny?” “Yes it is. Very funny!” “Zeta stop laughing or I’ll kick your ass!” “Is he alright?” “He is just fine!” "Ok,then goodnight!" "Goodnight!" Pauline said and hung up the phone. "Why are you calling your sister with my name?" Richie asked. "Well, this is a very funny story. My sister likes fooling on me and she always finds a way to do it. In my birthday she paint a mask with your gace and came to my room and spokje to me as you!" Pauline axpliened. "Oh! Very bad expirience." Richie replied. "Yes, it was but was very funny in the same time!" Pauline admit. "Just like uncle David!" Ava said "I don't want to be in the same room with Zeta and David!" Richie joked and the girls nobbed.

The timne passed very quickly and the two girls were on the bed. "So, how are thing withg Jesse?" "Nice. Very nice to be honest. He's very polite, romantic, cute and he makes me laugh!" "Jennifer?" "She didn't bother us since the day we fight!" "Something is telling me that we're not done with her! You should keep ann eyeon her!" "I will!" "A! Did you hear the news?" "No, what happend?" "Jennifer in not anymore the leader of 'Fub Five'. They kick her out!" "That's good!" "That's very good!" "Did Jesse talked about his family?" "Yes, and i talked about mine. You guys are so lucky that you don't have any siblings!" Pauline said and pointing her t-shirt. "Yeah, thank God that we don't!" "You know sometimes when i look at him he reminds me someone!" Ava froze. If Pauline understands that Jesse was lying to her all this time? What Ava should do now? "Does he reminds you someone in particular?" "No,he reminds me something! But i don't know what!" "I think that all this is on your mind!" Ava tried to cover Jesse's bullshit. "I think that too!" "Now let's sleep we have a big day ahead of us!" Ava said. "Yeah, goodnight!" pAULINE said and feel asleep next to Ava.

The next morning the two girls woke up later that they used to amd later than anyone in the house. In the kitchen Richie and Joan were sitting and a few minutes later Avan and Pauline joined them. "Good morning!" Ava said while she entered the kitchen. "Good morning to everyone!" Pauline said who was behind her. "Good morning girls! ou should sleep well to be up at this hour!" Joan said and the girls nobbed. "Worried for tonight?" Richie asked. "A little bit!" Pauline answwred first. "I'm not worried at all. I'm sure we'll win this!" Ava said we cofident voise. "Yes, me too. I'm always nervous before playing. Plus it's been a lot time since i playied in front of people!" "It's been long for me too. But if we start to think like that we better stay here!" "Girls, if you start fight i'd better go!" Richie said sitting there and hearring them. "No, dad we're not fighting." Avas said "We just talk loud!" Pauline added. "Exactly! Dad you don't want to see girls fighting!" "If you fight like Pauline and Jennifer i don't want to!" Richie answered. "That was an anfornunate example! And that was only thge begging. If they didn't seperate us, i'll have killed her!" "That's for sure!" Ava replied.

Whoa we're halfaway there
Livin' on a prayer
Take my hand and we'll make it i swear
Livin' on a prayer

"Hey girl!" "Hello Pauline. How are you?" "I'm fine Amalia. You?" "I'm here with the girls and we say to call you!" "You did good! It's been a while since the last time wwe spoke!" "Yeah, that's true! You're not home right because we call at your home and your dad said that you're in Ava's. Who is Ava?" "Ava is my best friend here!" "Good. Melina say that Richie has a daughter named Ava, that's true?" "Yes, that's true!" "Are you ok from your meeting with Jon?" "Yeah, i'm fine! It took me while to understand it but i'm alright now!" "Have you seen anyone else or just Jon?" "Right here on my left!" "Who is right there on your left?" the three girls asked together from the other line. "Richie!" "Richie who?" "Richie. The tall brown haired guy with the tattoos!" "Hols on a moment. Richie Sambora is next to you?" Stefania asked. "Yeah!" "I'm gonna faint!" Melina said loud and even Richie heard her. "Why you'll faint. I will faint. But i didn't faint the first time why i should do it now?" "You'd see him again?" "Yes, many times!" "And how is he?" "Just like you see him. A little taller than i thought and very funny!" "Mmm! That's all?" "No!" "Ok, i got it! You can't talk!" "Thank God you got it!" "Ok.Ready for tommorow?" "Tommorow is for you. Is 6 hours for me!" "Damn time differnce!" "Haha. You still didn't remember it?" "No, and i'm wondering why you remember it all the time!" "I don't know!" "Ok then. It's nice to talk to you. Call us tommorow to know how is goes!" "Alright i'll call you. Kisses!!" "Kisses to you too!" the three girls said all together while Pauline hung up the phone.

After the delicious lunck that Joan cooked Ava and Pauline were sitting on the couch and watching a movie. Joan was in her room and she was sleeping. While they were watching the movie Richie yelled from upstairs."Pauline come here darlin'!" Pauline got up and said to Ava "I'll be back in 5'!"

Pauline claimed to the second flour and found Richie to the room on the left of the hallway. She was sure it was his room because it was big and so peacefull. "Pauline here!" he yelled when he saw her looking for him. Pauline turned and walked into his big room. Richie was sitting at the edge of his bed and Pauline was opposite to him. "Did i do something wrong? Or did i say something that you don't like?" she asked. She knew that his father's death and few days later from his divorse wasn't the best it happend to him. "Pauline relax! I just wanted to show you something!" Richie said  with a look that calmed Pauline. "Ok what do you want to show me?" "Come here!" he said and stand up from the bed. The room was realy big and you can lost there but Pauline didn't get lost. Richie stop next to a big door. Pauline didn't know what to thing. "So, you're the fist and the last fan will see this. You're an amazing girl and a very good friend for Ava. And i think this what is counting the most!" "I apriciate all that you do for me Richie and i'll never forget that!" "Alright enough with the talking!" he said and opened the door and allow to Pauline to walk in his closet with the stage clothes. "Oh my God! You got to be kidding me. I'm gonna freak the fuck out!" Pauline said while her eyed were wide open. She could't believe she was there, in Richie's closet. Richie laugh "Well, i thought as your band is Bon Jovi and you're playing guitar and you'll wear my favourit outfit from the last 00's it would be a nice idea to see them live!" "Oh Richie you suprsed me! Oh my God you wear then on the 'Runaway' video right?" "Yeah!" Pauline passed a few more outfits and stop on her favourit from the 80's. "Oh! That's my favourit from the 80's. 'Lay your hands on me' video!" "Why do you like it so much?" "Beacause it's purple!" "Haha. I should have guess that." Now Pauline was searhing for the 'Blessing' shirt and the famous coyboy hat from the 'Wanted dead or alive' video. And she finally found them. "Can i ask you something?" "Of course." "Do you really miss her birthday?" "What?" "I mean in "I'll be there for you' at some point say 'I didn't mean to miss your birthday baby'. And i know that you write this song more than Jon did because was a personal expirience. Plus i always wanted to ask you that!" "The truth is that i miss her birthday." "And then she left you. She did good!" "What?" Richie asked suprised "Beacause if she didn't left you, you wouldn't be heartbroken. And if you wouldn't be heartbroken you would't had wrote I'll be there for you. And if you would't had wrote it i don't know what will happend!" "Woh! Now YOU suprised ME. You're thinking more than i thought!" "Thank you. But at least she can say that Richie Sambora and Jon Bon Jovi wrote a song about me!" "Haha. Yeah, i think she does!" Richie looked at his watch and it was time to get ready to go to the school for the perfomance.