GraceRyan
Rock n' Roll Doggie FOB
I swore I had posted this. Whoops. This is all fiction. It might be awhile as Without_Speaking has me working overtime on Seconds. And I've dried up on this one for a bit. I need to watch more Zoo TV, I guess. I hope you enjoy it and apologize for gross typos as I haven't really picked through this.
The belly dancer and pulling girls from the stage stayed in the show much to Gloria's dismay. She watched the show from soundboard with Joe some nights. It was interesting to watch the video director managing all the visuals on the huge screens behind the band. She knew the tour was like nothing anyone had seen, but seeing it from this perspective gave it new meaning. Each night, she fell in love with the music and the band a little more. She felt as though some of the band - not Larry - started to see her as an adult. She accompanied them and Andrew to interviews to watch and learn how to handle every situation. From too personal questions to too friendly journalists. Gloria's inclination to the latter, was to form fists and let her jealousy fly.
"I can't believe that she pretty much openly propositioned Bono," Gloria was disgusted.
Andrew nodded. "Yes, some are pretty unprofessional. You may not have as many do that when you're there. She was brazen, that one."
While the floozy journalist batted her eyes and attempted verbal foreplay, Gloria didn't realize that Bono looked beyond the reporter to watch Gloria's reaction. Her body was still but leaning forward in attack mode. Behind his dark glasses, he could keep his eyes on Gloria without her knowing. She had taken to wearing short skirts and it was hard to not notice her toned legs. As he ducked and dodged some of the reporter's more obvious flirtations, Gloria jotted down notes and conferred quietly with Andrew. He couldn't tell if she was jealous or concerned. He did pick up on the look of relief as Andrew intervened and escorted the horny woman out of the hotel room.
"Does that happen often?" She asked.
"To that degree? Not usually. I was put off that she was so direct in front of you. Usually that type of woman is only like that in the company men," Bono removed his glasses.
Gloria pulled a face. "I guess your sex appeal was too much for her."
He smirked. "You've noticed my sex appeal?"
She steeled the flutter in her stomach. She'd never get used to his flirting. "Yes, it's in my notes." She flashed her notepad and a smile at him.
He opened his mouth to raise the stakes when Andrew bustled back through the door.
"Sorry about that. I'm going to make sure that Paul knows about that."
Bono shrugged. "No harm. I'm certain I played right into it. The Fly can get himself into a bit of trouble. "
"I guess we're here to make sure Bono doesn't." Andrew said.
Gloria held Bono's gaze for a moment before getting up. Be cool, she told herself. Being a fawning fan was not very attractive. Bono needed someone a little more clever than that.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Bono chewed on the stirrer as he took a moment at the bar to enjoy the party unfold around him. Two in the morning and things were in full swing. The Zoo camp had taken over the local bar on their late night pub crawl. Being past the local witching hour, Paul managed to convince the owner to turn it into a private party for a small donation. BP took over the DJ booth and finally some good dance music pumped out of the speakers. Well look at that, Edge was on the dance floor. Bono was glad that Edge's mood had vastly improved since the start of the tour. He was a thousand miles away from his troubles. Bono chuckled to himself as he watched him attempt to move his body to a Happy Mondays song. It was then he heard the unmistakable opening to their danciest song. He gave BP a thumbs up as the a dance remix of Mysterious Ways boomed loudly. The dance floor crowded in. He saw Christina, the belly dancer, shimmy by. Wasn't the same fully dressed. She was trying to give Gloria a lesson. Bono took a sip of his warm beer as Gloria twirled and rocked her hips. Somehow she made it look dirtier. He watched that short skirt flutter around her thighs. Her blouse gave him a little peak of a red lace bra underneath. She laughed as she missed a step. Her whole face lit up when she smiled. She had grown into a beautiful woman. Her eyes caught on his and held for a moment, and a small grin tugged on the corners of that delicious mouth. Edge joined her.
"She moves in mysterious ways," Bono's voice crooned.
He remembered the several incarnations of this song before it became what it was now. 'Fear of woman' had been on e of the lines. He couldn't tear his eyes from Gloria - like he was in a trance.
"You've been running away from what you don't understand". Every sway of her hips was an invitation to join her. One dance couldn't hurt. All these people were around.
He slid off the stool and joined Edge and Gloria. He was careful to dance beside her, not with her. Up close, he watched the strands of her hair stick to her damp neck. He inched closer. Her sweet smell of her sweat intoxicated him. Her bright eyes smiled up st him with pure joy.
Bono had come to look forward to those costume changes during Joshua Tree. Her fresh face disarmed his temper most nights. There was something about her that both eased and excited him.
His hand brushed her hip. He felt her draw closer. He knew he should move away. Against his better judgment, he moved closer. She smiled up into his eyes shining with lust.
"Lift my days, light up my nights."
Those words seemed so true now - like he was writing into the future. Or had he? He remembered locking himself in his study to finish some lyrics. Ali was out for the day and all was quiet. Doing everything to procrastinate, he cleaned his desk while listening to the rough cuts of Mysterious Ways over again. He came across a stack of photos from the Joshua Tree tour. He made two piles - one with Gloria and without. 'Lift my days' was scrawled o n the back of one; 'Light up my nights' on the one taken the night of their kiss. Suddenly the words to a few songs flowed out of him for days.
"She wants you, you don't know why.....she sees the man inside the child."
He peered down at Gloria. This song was her. His knees suddenly felt weak. 'One' had been the song of the moment. Everything went into the song each night as it moved so many people. He didn't give much thought to this little dance song.
"One day you will look back and you'll see where you held, how by this love...while you can stand there, you could move on this moment, follow this feeling."
Both hands rested on her waist as his hips grazed hers. Gloria couldn't believe this was happening. Yes, she hoped he'd been watching. Gently, she placed her hand on his chest as he so close there was no other place for them. His black shirt was damp with sweat. His chest hair glistened in the club lights. She longed to touch it but knew it was too public for such brazen act. She didn't want to scare him off. All she could do was let him take the lead and respond. The look in his eyes was dangerous, and that excited her.
His hands moved from her hips to her back. He thought back that kiss. Feeling her move with he knew if he kissed it now, it would amazing. Those lips were so inviting, so ready. Her eyes didn't leave his face. Looking in his eyes was too much. She didn't have enough control for that. She watched his mouth or his chest. She wanted to taste both. She never knew such want. She told herself not here. Things were getting very heated. Would he kiss her in front of everyone? If he did, it might ruin the opportunity for anything that follows a kiss. It took all her strength to peel away and force herself to dance with Edge.
Bono, still in a lust daze, watched her toss her head back in laughter as she grabbed Edge to dance. Nowhere near as close as she and Bono had been, but Edge chuckled with some relief. He was nervous watching them. Maybe Gloria had more sense about her.
It only made Bono want her more.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Bono ran his fingers through his sweat slick hair. The crowd was on fire and they only three songs in. Edge started the unmistakable opening of Mysterious Ways. He removed his wrap around shades and began to shimmy. He watched Christina twirl and dance on the second stage. He tried hard to not think about the last time he heard this song - while grinding himself against Gloria for all to see. And she'd been the one to move away. He hadn't seen her much earlier in the day. She was with Adam and Edge while they were interviewed by MTV. He did see her wandering around backstage. She had smiled and waved - then was off again.
Bono hopped down to sing into the crowd. Somehow in the glare of all the lights, his eyes found her standing in the pit between the stage on Edge's side. She sang along and swayed her body to the song. Had she always been there? He never remembered seeing her in the crowd before. Now that he found, his eyes kept sliding back over to her. With a huge smile, she sang the words back to him. Occasionally, she jotted notes in a small pad, but she was just another fan dancing and singing. Andrew joined for a bit then flitted off.
Now that Bono had seen her, he couldn't ignore her presence. He rather liked her eyes on him as he slid across the stage. His pulse quickened as he made eye contact. He had thousands of female eyes on him nightly. What was it about hers? For the next few shows, Bono located Gloria in the audience in the same spot each night. Sometimes, she wouldn't be there until half way through the show. On those nights, his eyes searched for her. She had become like a good luck charm to him. As he battled a flu, her shining eyes carried him. His head pounded and chest constricted. He stood at the lip of the stage and sang into her shining eyes. After the show, he moved from Andrew to Gloria to lead him around.
"I'm not feeling great," he said in a raspy voice as he took her aside.
"Ok, did you want to go back the room instead?" she asked.
He opened his mouth to let out his darkest desire. "I'm just not feeling very social. It wasn't the best show and I know it."
Gloria nodded. "I could tell you weren't feeling great, but I don't think anyone else could tell."
"Do watch from there every night?" He asked.
"Dennis lets me watch from the pit since I stay out of the way. You can see me there?" She hoped she had not done anything stupid like yell 'I love you' which might have happened once.
He nodded with a smile. "I can."
"Does it bother you? I can find a seat or watch from the soundboard," she said as they walked down the hall away from the hospitality tent.
"No, I rather like having you there," he said a bit too tenderly.
She bit her lip as all the blood rushed from her head to her heart. "Okay then. I know to not disappoint the boss."
He wrapped an arm around shoulders playfully. "Bruce Springsteen can get his own lucky charm."
Huh, made her sound like a puppy, she thought. Whatever, she was pressed into his side and he was warm. They came upon Edge wandering from the dressing room.
"Have you been to the party yet?" Edge eyed the two of them.
"Briefly. I'm just not in the mood, you know?" Bono sighed. "Sometimes you're the Fly and sometimes..."
"You're the Windshield?" Gloria teased.
He burst into laughter so hard that he erupted into a coughing fit.
"You should let us healthy young folk away to the party," Edge attempted to slide Gloria away.
Bono wasn't letting go easily. "Let's get the lads together and just have a quiet night at a desolate pub.”
Edge felt his forehead. "This coming from the king of the after after party?"
"I'm too wound up to sleep but too knackered to entertain," he said.
Edge was just glad he wasn't attempting to make a night of just him and Gloria.
Edge nodded. "I'll see who I can wrangle. Have you told Andrew?"
Gloria unclipped her walkie talkie. "I'll let him know to get Adam and Larry."
She stepped out of Bono's grasp reluctantly.
Edge tried to send him a powerful look to cool it. He knew about the kiss 5 years ago. He wasn't blind to Bono’s drifting in her direction, but he was not making any eye contact.
"Hey Andrew," she said into the hiss. She waited a moment. "Andrew?"
"Where are you?" His voice crackled back impatiently. "Do you have anyone with you?"
"I'm with Edge and Bono. Listen, neither are feeling the hospitality party.
Bono and I ducked in briefly. Do you have the other two? They were talking quiet place for drinks," she said.
"Crew too. Just keep it small," Bono coughed.
She raised an eyebrow. "Are you sure you shouldn't be going right to bed?"
Scenes flashed in his head. He was in bed but not sleeping. He let his eyes slide down her body. "I'm fine."
"Just keep it family, " she said over the hiss.
There was a pause. "Okay. We'll meet you at the cars." She looked at Edge and Bono. "Okay....let's get you out of here before everyone catches wind that the kings have left."
Four limos waited in the loading area of the arena. More security ushered them towards the cars.
"On our way," Andrew said over the walkie talkie.
"We're here," she replied.
Edge crawled int the first one.
Bono paused with his hand on the door. "Are you coming?"
"It's just family," she said. That usually meant the band, maybe some Principle staff, Dennis, Jerry and Paul. It didn't occur often, but everyone knew to give them their space.
He cocked his head. "That's you too, my dear." He moved aside to let her crawl in beside Edge.
Her heart thundered as she moved into the inner circle. They trusted and liked her. She had to be careful to not screw it up. This would be a huge notch in her future career in the business. She felt Bono's leg press up against hers. She tried to swallow, but her mouth had gone totally dry. She needed to keep her head about her when it came it to him. He was closer every day that passed on the tour.
The radio crackled to life. "Where are you?" Andrew asked.
"In car one with number 1 and 2," she said.
"They really refer to us like that," Bono leaned forward to look at Edge.
"Oh I'm sure worse too," Edge said.
"We're going?" Andrew asked.
Bono grabbed the radio. "Not you, just her. It's time for the U2 initiation, " he teased.
"Okay, just be easier on her. And this time wear a condom," he deadpanned. “You nearly got me knocked up.”
The car erupted in snorts and laughter.
"Can you believe your brother has pimped you out like that?" Bono feigned disgust.
"You don't even want to know what I had to do to Bon Jovi....and there are 5 guys in that band," she shot back.
She was clever, Bono surmised. He grinned at her. She could hold her own.
The band collected in a small bar on the outskirts where no one would think U2 would be hosting an after-party. Those fans and celebrities piled into the trendier place where the planned party was raging with all eyes on the door waiting for U2. Andrew left the dive bar to attend to the bruised egos there. Once in a quiet setting, Bono came to life. After a few drinks, his sore throat was all but forgotten. He moved about the few tables his family occupied and settled beside Gloria and Edge. Bono had noted their heads together in deep conversation lately. He never could find the right way to ask if there was romance brewing. What could he say if it were? How could he lay claim to Gloria when he was married?
Slowly, the word got out that U2 were holed up in this tiny bar where Larry and Edge played pool. A few female fans sauntered their way in Bono's direction. They planted themselves on either side of him. They toyed with their hair and laughed heartily at everything that he said. Gloria wondered if she looked like that. Maybe five years ago. Tired of watching the dance between Bono and the girls flirting, she left to watch Edge and Larry play pool. She knew she was getting upset listening to Bono's playful tone - the one she thought was reserved for her. Just when she was starting to feel special. She was just another fan except she had a laminate pass. Bono was sad to see her go. His eyes followed her as Edge offered for her to join the pool game. While the girls fawned and dared to touch his arm or leg, he watched Gloria lean over the table to take a shot. When the ball jumped the table, she looked back at Edge and laughed. Bono felt the back of his neck warm. He looked at his watch. It was almost three.
"Ladies," he took each of their hands. "It's been a pleasure. This rock star need to go to bed."
"Do you need company? " one girl cooed.
His eyes switched back to Gloria leaning on pool stick. "No thanks, love."
He moved to the pool tables. "Where's Adam?"
"He left awhile ago. I think to find something more lively," Larry said.
"I think I'm done tonight. Are you ready to call it?" Bono yawned.
The yawn bug was caught by Gloria who rubbed her eyes. Next Larry joined. Edge had been winning at that point. He shrugged and surrendered to the night.
With Jerry in tow, they piled into the limo to head back to the hotel. Gloria looked up at the Arizona sky. The stars seemed close enough to touch. Last time she was here with Joshua Tree, it had been overcast.
"Impressive," Edge nodded.
"They seem so close," she nodded.
"You've been here before," Bono looked for any hint of remembrance of the last time they were in Tempe.
Her cheeks warmed thinking of kissing him behind the bar. "It was December, so it was cold and cloudy." She gazed out the limo window.
A few fans gathered outside the hotel despite the late hour. Bono stopped for some photographs and to shake sone hands. Larry grunted and went up to his room. Edge wanted to reward the tenacious fans, but was so tired he could barely stand. After 6 autographs, he bid them goodnight. Gloria wasn't sure if she was supposed to wait for Bono. Usually, Andrew was nearby when Bono met with fans.
"Wait for me?" He asked over his shoulder as he saw her shifting in her weight uncertainly. She nodded.
He took 2 more pictures and waved goodnight to the 15 people milling about.
"That was nice of you," she said as they walked to the elevator.
"They've been waiting for a long time," he shrugged.
Jerry walked them to the elevators. "You know where you're going, right?"
"Where are you headed?" Bono asked.
"We have one still out there," Jerry said. He would be waiting to check Adam in.
Gloria pushed the number 5 and PH buttons. She knew Bono's suite was nothing like her small room. It was okay, it was a nice enough bed. When the door opened on five, Bono quickly grabbed her arm to stop her.
"Will you come with me?" He asked almost desperately.
"Sure. What do you need?" She asked. As much as she loved the one on one attention, she hoped she didn't have to think right now.
He smiled. "It's more of what you need."
Her heart jumped. She settled back against the elevator wall as they zoomed to the penthouse. The doors opened to a vast hallway. Unlike her floor that was crowded with doors, there were only four. Bono rummaged in his pants for his room key.
"Wait here," he instructed.
She had no idea what he was planning as he slipped inside his room. He could emerge with his laundry for all she knew. But this was Bono and he rarely did anything on a small scale. Bono grabbed the comforter from his bed and peered inside his hospitality fridge. The six pack of Corona would do. With his arms full, he reemerged from his room.
"Ready?" He asked.
"For?" She raised her eyebrows looking at his bounty. It was nearly four in the morning. What was he doing?
"Follow me," he nodded to a door marked STAIRS. They climbed three flights to the top. With his shoulder, he pushed the heavy door open leading to the roof.
"How did you know about this?" She asked.
"I came up here last time we were in town," he dropped his gaze. He sat on the roof that night thinking about Gloria and her young soft lips. Looking back at it now, he wondered if this was a bad idea bringing her to the same place.
"Do you have something to keep the door open?" She stood in the doorway.
"My key works for it," motioning to the key slot.
"Maybe we should test it," she suggested. She imagined the two of them being locked on the roof and discovered by the band or hotel security. How would they explain a blanket and an empty six pack?
He smiled. "This is why you are the brains of this operation."
Bono was right, the key would let them back in. He spread the blanket on the still warm tar rooftop. Grabbing two beers, he gestured to his little picnic.
"Have a seat," he struggled to uncap the beers.
"Here, those are imports," she wandered to the ledge of the roof. With one swift move, she snapped the caps off.
"Impressive," he said as he took his beer from here. "I don't have lime."
"It's okay," she said casually. Her insides bucked and quivered.
There was no way she thought she'd be sitting on a blanket under an endless sea of stars with Bono - a man she was increasingly falling for as the days passed. Yes, when she started she was enamored with him. She'd fallen under his spell many years ago. Lately, those fluttering feelings went deeper. She just felt alive and better by his side. Under his gaze, she felt pretty. In his presence all things were possible.
"So we're here to look at the stars?"
He leaned back on his elbows. "And watch the sunrise. Soon you'll see the sky start to pink. There's nothing like a desert sunrise."
"Except a desert sunset?" She asked lying back on the blanket.
"I prefer sunsets over the water," he looked down at her. He swallowed hard. This was a dangerous idea, he thought as her hair pillowed under her.
"This is quite amazing. If I ever did look up at the sky back then I guess I don't remember it," she gazed up.
The stars felt so close that it seemed like she was lying on a bed looking at a ceiling. She tried to make out some of the constellations. "I see the big and little dipper, but that's all I know."
He pointed to a cluster of stars. "That's Taurus. I know it because it's my sign."
"Do you know where Leo is?" She asked. There was nothing that looked remotely like a lion in the sky.
His eyes searched the diamonds for anything that might even pass. "There it is. Right beside Taurus."
"Bullshit," she jabbed him.
He giggled. "You don't know, right? It could be."
"You don't know either," she laughed. She felt oddly comfortable lying just inches from his body. She gasped as it looked like a star dropped from the sky. "I think I just saw a shooting star."
He rolled over on his side to face her. "You have to make a wish."
"I already did," she opened her eyes.
He grinned propped up on an elbow. "What did you wish?"
"I can't tell you or it won't come true," she said.
"Your world wouldn't end if it didn't come true, right?" He watched her carefully. If it had something to do with them and a kiss, he didn't think he could refuse.
She shook her head. "My world wouldn't end. But it'd be better if it did." A secretive smile rested on her those full lips.
He searched her face in the dark for any indication. What if it was to be with Edge? They had been spending a lot of time together. But would she follow Bono on his silly excursion to the roof?
"You know a secret is something you tell another person," he said.
"This isn't is a secret, it's a wish." She answered plainly.
He wasn't getting anywhere with this. He tucked his hands behind his head and stared at the stars. In the far eastern sky, the horizon was turquoise.
"We saw some amazing sunrises when we did photo shoots out by the Joshua Tree," he mused.
"I bet this won't compare since you were in the middle of nowhere," she said. "I remember seeing one in New Mexico when we were there."
"Each part of the desert looks different. Arizona has the most coral skies," he said.
"That tour seems like a lifetime ago," she sighed also thinking about his body crushed against hers outside that bar.
It was a different bar tonight. Did he not want to go back there because of memories? She laughed to herself. You are making that kiss more important to him than it was. She was certain she was one in a long line girls he might have kissed. What was special about her? Nothing - except that he brought her here tonight. Maybe it was more than just Bono being impulsive.
"I never asked, but what did your parents think of you joining the tour? Or this one for that matter. Weren't you at university when you joined?" He asked.
"My parents?" She rolled on to her side. "How long have you known Andrew?"
He thought. "Since about 1984."
"He didn't tell you?" She asked.
A lump formed in his throat. "Tell me what?"
"Our parents died. I guess it was 1986. I was 15. They were in a terrible crash," her voice was heavy with sorrow.
Bono sat upright and faced her. "No! He didn't tell me. So they were gone when you joined Joshua Tree.."
"It's the only way I was able to. And this one for that matter. They would have never allowed Andrew to drag me into this tomfoolery," she said.
"Gloria, I am so sorry," he placed his hand on her hip. "I should have known."
His warm hand resting on her distracted her from the topic. She concentrated on not moving an inch. "How would you know if Andrew didn't tell you?"
He nodded still feeling bad. "I lost my mum when I was fourteen."
She nodded. "I know."
"But to lose both," he sighed heavily.
"Andrew was granted legal guardianship of me and my brother Steven since he was 23 or 24 when it happened. "
"He never let on," Neither of them did. Her parents had passed the year before going on tour. He noted that she seemed much older than 16. She had to grow up quickly.
"Steven went to live with my grandparents. He was just 11 and a handful for Andrew and I. So he stayed in Boston while I came to New York. My grandmother wanted me to stay too but I wanted to be with Andrew." She said.
"And he couldn't leave you alone at 16 to fend for yourself in New York, so on tour you came," Bono said softly.
She chuckled gently. "Talk about culture shock. But it was what I needed. Taking care of you...you know....the band.....saved me. I was too busy and it was exciting - I didn't have time to think about what I just lost," she said.
He turned his head to see the horizon glow pink and green. "It's happening."
Reluctantly, she sat up. Blue clouds skated across the orange sky just above the hills.
"This is magnificent, " she breathed.
Bono glanced over - her face illuminated by the corals in the morning sky. He thought how their bodies would glow gold and pink under this sky. He pictured them being joined on this blanket, on this roof. No sound except sighs and soft moans. He forced himself to look away. He'd been away from his wife too long. There was a need gnawing at him and he was too close to Gloria right now.
Gloria shivered in the cool dessert air. Today was supposed to be in the 100's, but the air was chilled from the night. Against all better judgment, he moved closer and wrapped his arm around her shoulders. Leaning into him, she rested her head on his shoulder. A fresh rosemary mint filled his nose. Her hair was soft against his cheek.
They sat motionless as the golden sphere crept up in the sky.
"Thank you for sharing this with me," she said.
He cleared his throat and head. "I'd hate for you leave the southwest without experiencing a proper desert sunrise."
"Is an ocean sunset next?" Her voice was soft and hopeful.
He resisted the urge to push her back against the blanket and kiss her with the hunger burning in his belly. "You've probably seen plenty of those."
She wanted to say, but not with you. That would be giving too much away.
"Not setting over the pacific ocean," she offered.
"We will in be California next. I'll see what I can do."
He gave her a small squeeze. She felt so small in his arms, the poor orphaned girl. Imagine losing both parents then crowding into a chartered plane with four Irishmen to tour America. He felt like he took advantage of the young girl years ago. Perhaps she'd been looking for comfort but instead got his tongue in her mouth. He felt like a lech. Well, she didn't seem scarred from the incident as she pressed against his side.
He looked at his watch. "It's late or early - depending how you look at it."
Reluctantly, she nodded. A rush cool air surrounded him as she pulled away. Suddenly, he felt lonely. Sighing, he stood. Was it the beer or the company that made him dizzy? He turned to offer his hand. With a gentle smile, she slipped her hand in his. She stood inches from him looking at him with those magnificent eyes. His hands went to her waist to steady her. It had been a long time since he'd been this sick with desire. Despite the cool morning air, he felt the sweat collect in the small of his back. Her hair in the orange sunlight and her sweet smell were too much for him.
"I better get you to bed," he said in a huskier voice than he intended. "To go sleep."
She hid her smile and fought against the urge to hug him. Never in a million years did she think she'd be star gazing with him. She wished she had a girlfriend to gush to. Most of her friends back home didn't understand her new life and they certainly wouldn't keep their yaps shut over this. She nodded silently as he opened the door to lead them into the stairs.
Bono shuffled his feet when they reached the elevator. "I'm just down the hall," he nodded.
Was that an invitation? Her heart stopped. It sunk a little as he pressed the down button.
"Do you need an escort?" He asked.
Part of her wanted to say 'yes' in hopes that he'd follow her into her room.
Looking at his weary eyes, she knew it wasn't the right time for that. "I think I can manage it, but thank you." She turned to him. "Get some sleep......we have LA coming up."
He nodded eyes bleary. Right now, he just wanted to curl up and sleep beside her - just to bury his face in her neck and breathe her in with his dreams. With a wave and a smile, the doors closed around her.
"Sweet dreams," he uttered before turning towards his room. He ached with exhaustion. Keeping his desires at bay had taken the last sap of energy he had. His shoulders slumped as he walked into his bedroom. The duvet was still on the roof.
The belly dancer and pulling girls from the stage stayed in the show much to Gloria's dismay. She watched the show from soundboard with Joe some nights. It was interesting to watch the video director managing all the visuals on the huge screens behind the band. She knew the tour was like nothing anyone had seen, but seeing it from this perspective gave it new meaning. Each night, she fell in love with the music and the band a little more. She felt as though some of the band - not Larry - started to see her as an adult. She accompanied them and Andrew to interviews to watch and learn how to handle every situation. From too personal questions to too friendly journalists. Gloria's inclination to the latter, was to form fists and let her jealousy fly.
"I can't believe that she pretty much openly propositioned Bono," Gloria was disgusted.
Andrew nodded. "Yes, some are pretty unprofessional. You may not have as many do that when you're there. She was brazen, that one."
While the floozy journalist batted her eyes and attempted verbal foreplay, Gloria didn't realize that Bono looked beyond the reporter to watch Gloria's reaction. Her body was still but leaning forward in attack mode. Behind his dark glasses, he could keep his eyes on Gloria without her knowing. She had taken to wearing short skirts and it was hard to not notice her toned legs. As he ducked and dodged some of the reporter's more obvious flirtations, Gloria jotted down notes and conferred quietly with Andrew. He couldn't tell if she was jealous or concerned. He did pick up on the look of relief as Andrew intervened and escorted the horny woman out of the hotel room.
"Does that happen often?" She asked.
"To that degree? Not usually. I was put off that she was so direct in front of you. Usually that type of woman is only like that in the company men," Bono removed his glasses.
Gloria pulled a face. "I guess your sex appeal was too much for her."
He smirked. "You've noticed my sex appeal?"
She steeled the flutter in her stomach. She'd never get used to his flirting. "Yes, it's in my notes." She flashed her notepad and a smile at him.
He opened his mouth to raise the stakes when Andrew bustled back through the door.
"Sorry about that. I'm going to make sure that Paul knows about that."
Bono shrugged. "No harm. I'm certain I played right into it. The Fly can get himself into a bit of trouble. "
"I guess we're here to make sure Bono doesn't." Andrew said.
Gloria held Bono's gaze for a moment before getting up. Be cool, she told herself. Being a fawning fan was not very attractive. Bono needed someone a little more clever than that.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Bono chewed on the stirrer as he took a moment at the bar to enjoy the party unfold around him. Two in the morning and things were in full swing. The Zoo camp had taken over the local bar on their late night pub crawl. Being past the local witching hour, Paul managed to convince the owner to turn it into a private party for a small donation. BP took over the DJ booth and finally some good dance music pumped out of the speakers. Well look at that, Edge was on the dance floor. Bono was glad that Edge's mood had vastly improved since the start of the tour. He was a thousand miles away from his troubles. Bono chuckled to himself as he watched him attempt to move his body to a Happy Mondays song. It was then he heard the unmistakable opening to their danciest song. He gave BP a thumbs up as the a dance remix of Mysterious Ways boomed loudly. The dance floor crowded in. He saw Christina, the belly dancer, shimmy by. Wasn't the same fully dressed. She was trying to give Gloria a lesson. Bono took a sip of his warm beer as Gloria twirled and rocked her hips. Somehow she made it look dirtier. He watched that short skirt flutter around her thighs. Her blouse gave him a little peak of a red lace bra underneath. She laughed as she missed a step. Her whole face lit up when she smiled. She had grown into a beautiful woman. Her eyes caught on his and held for a moment, and a small grin tugged on the corners of that delicious mouth. Edge joined her.
"She moves in mysterious ways," Bono's voice crooned.
He remembered the several incarnations of this song before it became what it was now. 'Fear of woman' had been on e of the lines. He couldn't tear his eyes from Gloria - like he was in a trance.
"You've been running away from what you don't understand". Every sway of her hips was an invitation to join her. One dance couldn't hurt. All these people were around.
He slid off the stool and joined Edge and Gloria. He was careful to dance beside her, not with her. Up close, he watched the strands of her hair stick to her damp neck. He inched closer. Her sweet smell of her sweat intoxicated him. Her bright eyes smiled up st him with pure joy.
Bono had come to look forward to those costume changes during Joshua Tree. Her fresh face disarmed his temper most nights. There was something about her that both eased and excited him.
His hand brushed her hip. He felt her draw closer. He knew he should move away. Against his better judgment, he moved closer. She smiled up into his eyes shining with lust.
"Lift my days, light up my nights."
Those words seemed so true now - like he was writing into the future. Or had he? He remembered locking himself in his study to finish some lyrics. Ali was out for the day and all was quiet. Doing everything to procrastinate, he cleaned his desk while listening to the rough cuts of Mysterious Ways over again. He came across a stack of photos from the Joshua Tree tour. He made two piles - one with Gloria and without. 'Lift my days' was scrawled o n the back of one; 'Light up my nights' on the one taken the night of their kiss. Suddenly the words to a few songs flowed out of him for days.
"She wants you, you don't know why.....she sees the man inside the child."
He peered down at Gloria. This song was her. His knees suddenly felt weak. 'One' had been the song of the moment. Everything went into the song each night as it moved so many people. He didn't give much thought to this little dance song.
"One day you will look back and you'll see where you held, how by this love...while you can stand there, you could move on this moment, follow this feeling."
Both hands rested on her waist as his hips grazed hers. Gloria couldn't believe this was happening. Yes, she hoped he'd been watching. Gently, she placed her hand on his chest as he so close there was no other place for them. His black shirt was damp with sweat. His chest hair glistened in the club lights. She longed to touch it but knew it was too public for such brazen act. She didn't want to scare him off. All she could do was let him take the lead and respond. The look in his eyes was dangerous, and that excited her.
His hands moved from her hips to her back. He thought back that kiss. Feeling her move with he knew if he kissed it now, it would amazing. Those lips were so inviting, so ready. Her eyes didn't leave his face. Looking in his eyes was too much. She didn't have enough control for that. She watched his mouth or his chest. She wanted to taste both. She never knew such want. She told herself not here. Things were getting very heated. Would he kiss her in front of everyone? If he did, it might ruin the opportunity for anything that follows a kiss. It took all her strength to peel away and force herself to dance with Edge.
Bono, still in a lust daze, watched her toss her head back in laughter as she grabbed Edge to dance. Nowhere near as close as she and Bono had been, but Edge chuckled with some relief. He was nervous watching them. Maybe Gloria had more sense about her.
It only made Bono want her more.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Bono ran his fingers through his sweat slick hair. The crowd was on fire and they only three songs in. Edge started the unmistakable opening of Mysterious Ways. He removed his wrap around shades and began to shimmy. He watched Christina twirl and dance on the second stage. He tried hard to not think about the last time he heard this song - while grinding himself against Gloria for all to see. And she'd been the one to move away. He hadn't seen her much earlier in the day. She was with Adam and Edge while they were interviewed by MTV. He did see her wandering around backstage. She had smiled and waved - then was off again.
Bono hopped down to sing into the crowd. Somehow in the glare of all the lights, his eyes found her standing in the pit between the stage on Edge's side. She sang along and swayed her body to the song. Had she always been there? He never remembered seeing her in the crowd before. Now that he found, his eyes kept sliding back over to her. With a huge smile, she sang the words back to him. Occasionally, she jotted notes in a small pad, but she was just another fan dancing and singing. Andrew joined for a bit then flitted off.
Now that Bono had seen her, he couldn't ignore her presence. He rather liked her eyes on him as he slid across the stage. His pulse quickened as he made eye contact. He had thousands of female eyes on him nightly. What was it about hers? For the next few shows, Bono located Gloria in the audience in the same spot each night. Sometimes, she wouldn't be there until half way through the show. On those nights, his eyes searched for her. She had become like a good luck charm to him. As he battled a flu, her shining eyes carried him. His head pounded and chest constricted. He stood at the lip of the stage and sang into her shining eyes. After the show, he moved from Andrew to Gloria to lead him around.
"I'm not feeling great," he said in a raspy voice as he took her aside.
"Ok, did you want to go back the room instead?" she asked.
He opened his mouth to let out his darkest desire. "I'm just not feeling very social. It wasn't the best show and I know it."
Gloria nodded. "I could tell you weren't feeling great, but I don't think anyone else could tell."
"Do watch from there every night?" He asked.
"Dennis lets me watch from the pit since I stay out of the way. You can see me there?" She hoped she had not done anything stupid like yell 'I love you' which might have happened once.
He nodded with a smile. "I can."
"Does it bother you? I can find a seat or watch from the soundboard," she said as they walked down the hall away from the hospitality tent.
"No, I rather like having you there," he said a bit too tenderly.
She bit her lip as all the blood rushed from her head to her heart. "Okay then. I know to not disappoint the boss."
He wrapped an arm around shoulders playfully. "Bruce Springsteen can get his own lucky charm."
Huh, made her sound like a puppy, she thought. Whatever, she was pressed into his side and he was warm. They came upon Edge wandering from the dressing room.
"Have you been to the party yet?" Edge eyed the two of them.
"Briefly. I'm just not in the mood, you know?" Bono sighed. "Sometimes you're the Fly and sometimes..."
"You're the Windshield?" Gloria teased.
He burst into laughter so hard that he erupted into a coughing fit.
"You should let us healthy young folk away to the party," Edge attempted to slide Gloria away.
Bono wasn't letting go easily. "Let's get the lads together and just have a quiet night at a desolate pub.”
Edge felt his forehead. "This coming from the king of the after after party?"
"I'm too wound up to sleep but too knackered to entertain," he said.
Edge was just glad he wasn't attempting to make a night of just him and Gloria.
Edge nodded. "I'll see who I can wrangle. Have you told Andrew?"
Gloria unclipped her walkie talkie. "I'll let him know to get Adam and Larry."
She stepped out of Bono's grasp reluctantly.
Edge tried to send him a powerful look to cool it. He knew about the kiss 5 years ago. He wasn't blind to Bono’s drifting in her direction, but he was not making any eye contact.
"Hey Andrew," she said into the hiss. She waited a moment. "Andrew?"
"Where are you?" His voice crackled back impatiently. "Do you have anyone with you?"
"I'm with Edge and Bono. Listen, neither are feeling the hospitality party.
Bono and I ducked in briefly. Do you have the other two? They were talking quiet place for drinks," she said.
"Crew too. Just keep it small," Bono coughed.
She raised an eyebrow. "Are you sure you shouldn't be going right to bed?"
Scenes flashed in his head. He was in bed but not sleeping. He let his eyes slide down her body. "I'm fine."
"Just keep it family, " she said over the hiss.
There was a pause. "Okay. We'll meet you at the cars." She looked at Edge and Bono. "Okay....let's get you out of here before everyone catches wind that the kings have left."
Four limos waited in the loading area of the arena. More security ushered them towards the cars.
"On our way," Andrew said over the walkie talkie.
"We're here," she replied.
Edge crawled int the first one.
Bono paused with his hand on the door. "Are you coming?"
"It's just family," she said. That usually meant the band, maybe some Principle staff, Dennis, Jerry and Paul. It didn't occur often, but everyone knew to give them their space.
He cocked his head. "That's you too, my dear." He moved aside to let her crawl in beside Edge.
Her heart thundered as she moved into the inner circle. They trusted and liked her. She had to be careful to not screw it up. This would be a huge notch in her future career in the business. She felt Bono's leg press up against hers. She tried to swallow, but her mouth had gone totally dry. She needed to keep her head about her when it came it to him. He was closer every day that passed on the tour.
The radio crackled to life. "Where are you?" Andrew asked.
"In car one with number 1 and 2," she said.
"They really refer to us like that," Bono leaned forward to look at Edge.
"Oh I'm sure worse too," Edge said.
"We're going?" Andrew asked.
Bono grabbed the radio. "Not you, just her. It's time for the U2 initiation, " he teased.
"Okay, just be easier on her. And this time wear a condom," he deadpanned. “You nearly got me knocked up.”
The car erupted in snorts and laughter.
"Can you believe your brother has pimped you out like that?" Bono feigned disgust.
"You don't even want to know what I had to do to Bon Jovi....and there are 5 guys in that band," she shot back.
She was clever, Bono surmised. He grinned at her. She could hold her own.
The band collected in a small bar on the outskirts where no one would think U2 would be hosting an after-party. Those fans and celebrities piled into the trendier place where the planned party was raging with all eyes on the door waiting for U2. Andrew left the dive bar to attend to the bruised egos there. Once in a quiet setting, Bono came to life. After a few drinks, his sore throat was all but forgotten. He moved about the few tables his family occupied and settled beside Gloria and Edge. Bono had noted their heads together in deep conversation lately. He never could find the right way to ask if there was romance brewing. What could he say if it were? How could he lay claim to Gloria when he was married?
Slowly, the word got out that U2 were holed up in this tiny bar where Larry and Edge played pool. A few female fans sauntered their way in Bono's direction. They planted themselves on either side of him. They toyed with their hair and laughed heartily at everything that he said. Gloria wondered if she looked like that. Maybe five years ago. Tired of watching the dance between Bono and the girls flirting, she left to watch Edge and Larry play pool. She knew she was getting upset listening to Bono's playful tone - the one she thought was reserved for her. Just when she was starting to feel special. She was just another fan except she had a laminate pass. Bono was sad to see her go. His eyes followed her as Edge offered for her to join the pool game. While the girls fawned and dared to touch his arm or leg, he watched Gloria lean over the table to take a shot. When the ball jumped the table, she looked back at Edge and laughed. Bono felt the back of his neck warm. He looked at his watch. It was almost three.
"Ladies," he took each of their hands. "It's been a pleasure. This rock star need to go to bed."
"Do you need company? " one girl cooed.
His eyes switched back to Gloria leaning on pool stick. "No thanks, love."
He moved to the pool tables. "Where's Adam?"
"He left awhile ago. I think to find something more lively," Larry said.
"I think I'm done tonight. Are you ready to call it?" Bono yawned.
The yawn bug was caught by Gloria who rubbed her eyes. Next Larry joined. Edge had been winning at that point. He shrugged and surrendered to the night.
With Jerry in tow, they piled into the limo to head back to the hotel. Gloria looked up at the Arizona sky. The stars seemed close enough to touch. Last time she was here with Joshua Tree, it had been overcast.
"Impressive," Edge nodded.
"They seem so close," she nodded.
"You've been here before," Bono looked for any hint of remembrance of the last time they were in Tempe.
Her cheeks warmed thinking of kissing him behind the bar. "It was December, so it was cold and cloudy." She gazed out the limo window.
A few fans gathered outside the hotel despite the late hour. Bono stopped for some photographs and to shake sone hands. Larry grunted and went up to his room. Edge wanted to reward the tenacious fans, but was so tired he could barely stand. After 6 autographs, he bid them goodnight. Gloria wasn't sure if she was supposed to wait for Bono. Usually, Andrew was nearby when Bono met with fans.
"Wait for me?" He asked over his shoulder as he saw her shifting in her weight uncertainly. She nodded.
He took 2 more pictures and waved goodnight to the 15 people milling about.
"That was nice of you," she said as they walked to the elevator.
"They've been waiting for a long time," he shrugged.
Jerry walked them to the elevators. "You know where you're going, right?"
"Where are you headed?" Bono asked.
"We have one still out there," Jerry said. He would be waiting to check Adam in.
Gloria pushed the number 5 and PH buttons. She knew Bono's suite was nothing like her small room. It was okay, it was a nice enough bed. When the door opened on five, Bono quickly grabbed her arm to stop her.
"Will you come with me?" He asked almost desperately.
"Sure. What do you need?" She asked. As much as she loved the one on one attention, she hoped she didn't have to think right now.
He smiled. "It's more of what you need."
Her heart jumped. She settled back against the elevator wall as they zoomed to the penthouse. The doors opened to a vast hallway. Unlike her floor that was crowded with doors, there were only four. Bono rummaged in his pants for his room key.
"Wait here," he instructed.
She had no idea what he was planning as he slipped inside his room. He could emerge with his laundry for all she knew. But this was Bono and he rarely did anything on a small scale. Bono grabbed the comforter from his bed and peered inside his hospitality fridge. The six pack of Corona would do. With his arms full, he reemerged from his room.
"Ready?" He asked.
"For?" She raised her eyebrows looking at his bounty. It was nearly four in the morning. What was he doing?
"Follow me," he nodded to a door marked STAIRS. They climbed three flights to the top. With his shoulder, he pushed the heavy door open leading to the roof.
"How did you know about this?" She asked.
"I came up here last time we were in town," he dropped his gaze. He sat on the roof that night thinking about Gloria and her young soft lips. Looking back at it now, he wondered if this was a bad idea bringing her to the same place.
"Do you have something to keep the door open?" She stood in the doorway.
"My key works for it," motioning to the key slot.
"Maybe we should test it," she suggested. She imagined the two of them being locked on the roof and discovered by the band or hotel security. How would they explain a blanket and an empty six pack?
He smiled. "This is why you are the brains of this operation."
Bono was right, the key would let them back in. He spread the blanket on the still warm tar rooftop. Grabbing two beers, he gestured to his little picnic.
"Have a seat," he struggled to uncap the beers.
"Here, those are imports," she wandered to the ledge of the roof. With one swift move, she snapped the caps off.
"Impressive," he said as he took his beer from here. "I don't have lime."
"It's okay," she said casually. Her insides bucked and quivered.
There was no way she thought she'd be sitting on a blanket under an endless sea of stars with Bono - a man she was increasingly falling for as the days passed. Yes, when she started she was enamored with him. She'd fallen under his spell many years ago. Lately, those fluttering feelings went deeper. She just felt alive and better by his side. Under his gaze, she felt pretty. In his presence all things were possible.
"So we're here to look at the stars?"
He leaned back on his elbows. "And watch the sunrise. Soon you'll see the sky start to pink. There's nothing like a desert sunrise."
"Except a desert sunset?" She asked lying back on the blanket.
"I prefer sunsets over the water," he looked down at her. He swallowed hard. This was a dangerous idea, he thought as her hair pillowed under her.
"This is quite amazing. If I ever did look up at the sky back then I guess I don't remember it," she gazed up.
The stars felt so close that it seemed like she was lying on a bed looking at a ceiling. She tried to make out some of the constellations. "I see the big and little dipper, but that's all I know."
He pointed to a cluster of stars. "That's Taurus. I know it because it's my sign."
"Do you know where Leo is?" She asked. There was nothing that looked remotely like a lion in the sky.
His eyes searched the diamonds for anything that might even pass. "There it is. Right beside Taurus."
"Bullshit," she jabbed him.
He giggled. "You don't know, right? It could be."
"You don't know either," she laughed. She felt oddly comfortable lying just inches from his body. She gasped as it looked like a star dropped from the sky. "I think I just saw a shooting star."
He rolled over on his side to face her. "You have to make a wish."
"I already did," she opened her eyes.
He grinned propped up on an elbow. "What did you wish?"
"I can't tell you or it won't come true," she said.
"Your world wouldn't end if it didn't come true, right?" He watched her carefully. If it had something to do with them and a kiss, he didn't think he could refuse.
She shook her head. "My world wouldn't end. But it'd be better if it did." A secretive smile rested on her those full lips.
He searched her face in the dark for any indication. What if it was to be with Edge? They had been spending a lot of time together. But would she follow Bono on his silly excursion to the roof?
"You know a secret is something you tell another person," he said.
"This isn't is a secret, it's a wish." She answered plainly.
He wasn't getting anywhere with this. He tucked his hands behind his head and stared at the stars. In the far eastern sky, the horizon was turquoise.
"We saw some amazing sunrises when we did photo shoots out by the Joshua Tree," he mused.
"I bet this won't compare since you were in the middle of nowhere," she said. "I remember seeing one in New Mexico when we were there."
"Each part of the desert looks different. Arizona has the most coral skies," he said.
"That tour seems like a lifetime ago," she sighed also thinking about his body crushed against hers outside that bar.
It was a different bar tonight. Did he not want to go back there because of memories? She laughed to herself. You are making that kiss more important to him than it was. She was certain she was one in a long line girls he might have kissed. What was special about her? Nothing - except that he brought her here tonight. Maybe it was more than just Bono being impulsive.
"I never asked, but what did your parents think of you joining the tour? Or this one for that matter. Weren't you at university when you joined?" He asked.
"My parents?" She rolled on to her side. "How long have you known Andrew?"
He thought. "Since about 1984."
"He didn't tell you?" She asked.
A lump formed in his throat. "Tell me what?"
"Our parents died. I guess it was 1986. I was 15. They were in a terrible crash," her voice was heavy with sorrow.
Bono sat upright and faced her. "No! He didn't tell me. So they were gone when you joined Joshua Tree.."
"It's the only way I was able to. And this one for that matter. They would have never allowed Andrew to drag me into this tomfoolery," she said.
"Gloria, I am so sorry," he placed his hand on her hip. "I should have known."
His warm hand resting on her distracted her from the topic. She concentrated on not moving an inch. "How would you know if Andrew didn't tell you?"
He nodded still feeling bad. "I lost my mum when I was fourteen."
She nodded. "I know."
"But to lose both," he sighed heavily.
"Andrew was granted legal guardianship of me and my brother Steven since he was 23 or 24 when it happened. "
"He never let on," Neither of them did. Her parents had passed the year before going on tour. He noted that she seemed much older than 16. She had to grow up quickly.
"Steven went to live with my grandparents. He was just 11 and a handful for Andrew and I. So he stayed in Boston while I came to New York. My grandmother wanted me to stay too but I wanted to be with Andrew." She said.
"And he couldn't leave you alone at 16 to fend for yourself in New York, so on tour you came," Bono said softly.
She chuckled gently. "Talk about culture shock. But it was what I needed. Taking care of you...you know....the band.....saved me. I was too busy and it was exciting - I didn't have time to think about what I just lost," she said.
He turned his head to see the horizon glow pink and green. "It's happening."
Reluctantly, she sat up. Blue clouds skated across the orange sky just above the hills.
"This is magnificent, " she breathed.
Bono glanced over - her face illuminated by the corals in the morning sky. He thought how their bodies would glow gold and pink under this sky. He pictured them being joined on this blanket, on this roof. No sound except sighs and soft moans. He forced himself to look away. He'd been away from his wife too long. There was a need gnawing at him and he was too close to Gloria right now.
Gloria shivered in the cool dessert air. Today was supposed to be in the 100's, but the air was chilled from the night. Against all better judgment, he moved closer and wrapped his arm around her shoulders. Leaning into him, she rested her head on his shoulder. A fresh rosemary mint filled his nose. Her hair was soft against his cheek.
They sat motionless as the golden sphere crept up in the sky.
"Thank you for sharing this with me," she said.
He cleared his throat and head. "I'd hate for you leave the southwest without experiencing a proper desert sunrise."
"Is an ocean sunset next?" Her voice was soft and hopeful.
He resisted the urge to push her back against the blanket and kiss her with the hunger burning in his belly. "You've probably seen plenty of those."
She wanted to say, but not with you. That would be giving too much away.
"Not setting over the pacific ocean," she offered.
"We will in be California next. I'll see what I can do."
He gave her a small squeeze. She felt so small in his arms, the poor orphaned girl. Imagine losing both parents then crowding into a chartered plane with four Irishmen to tour America. He felt like he took advantage of the young girl years ago. Perhaps she'd been looking for comfort but instead got his tongue in her mouth. He felt like a lech. Well, she didn't seem scarred from the incident as she pressed against his side.
He looked at his watch. "It's late or early - depending how you look at it."
Reluctantly, she nodded. A rush cool air surrounded him as she pulled away. Suddenly, he felt lonely. Sighing, he stood. Was it the beer or the company that made him dizzy? He turned to offer his hand. With a gentle smile, she slipped her hand in his. She stood inches from him looking at him with those magnificent eyes. His hands went to her waist to steady her. It had been a long time since he'd been this sick with desire. Despite the cool morning air, he felt the sweat collect in the small of his back. Her hair in the orange sunlight and her sweet smell were too much for him.
"I better get you to bed," he said in a huskier voice than he intended. "To go sleep."
She hid her smile and fought against the urge to hug him. Never in a million years did she think she'd be star gazing with him. She wished she had a girlfriend to gush to. Most of her friends back home didn't understand her new life and they certainly wouldn't keep their yaps shut over this. She nodded silently as he opened the door to lead them into the stairs.
Bono shuffled his feet when they reached the elevator. "I'm just down the hall," he nodded.
Was that an invitation? Her heart stopped. It sunk a little as he pressed the down button.
"Do you need an escort?" He asked.
Part of her wanted to say 'yes' in hopes that he'd follow her into her room.
Looking at his weary eyes, she knew it wasn't the right time for that. "I think I can manage it, but thank you." She turned to him. "Get some sleep......we have LA coming up."
He nodded eyes bleary. Right now, he just wanted to curl up and sleep beside her - just to bury his face in her neck and breathe her in with his dreams. With a wave and a smile, the doors closed around her.
"Sweet dreams," he uttered before turning towards his room. He ached with exhaustion. Keeping his desires at bay had taken the last sap of energy he had. His shoulders slumped as he walked into his bedroom. The duvet was still on the roof.
I hope it's not too long till the next chapter!!
That last sentence. Poor B!
