Inked Chaos

by Grace, M. J.

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

  “Yes”

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

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

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

  *****

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  CHAPTER 12

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

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

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

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

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

  “Tiny?” he’d questioned.

  Me and my mouth!

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

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

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

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

  With a swift kiss on the nose AJ announced:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  AJ wiped a tear from my cheek with his thumb.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  “Bye Jorgi. Have a good flight.”

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

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

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

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

  To which I quickly received the reply of…

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

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

  *****

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  “Jorgi.” He greets me.

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

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

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

  “How have you been Tiny? Is AJ okay?”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  “Okay, give.” I say

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

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

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

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

  “He asked me a couple of weeks ago. I was going t
o ring you, but I wanted to tell you in person. Oh Boo, I’m so happy, you just can’t imagine.”

  She goes on to tell me, how Razor had taken her out on a private cruiser, and at dinner, whilst sitting watching the sun set over the ocean, he had asked her to marry him. I would never have thought Razor could be so romantic.

  “It’s why I flew back to LA. I had a meeting with the dress designer. We want to marry as soon as we possibly can after the tour. It’s going to be a lot of rushing around, but I’m counting on you for help. You will be my maid of honour won’t you?” she asks.

  “Just try to stop me.” I announce. “When’s the big day?”

  She then proceeds to blow me away, by giving me a date that is only six weeks away. The tour is on for another two weeks, which only leaves a straight clear four weeks to organise everything.

  “Are you mad? You are aren’t you? How are you going to arrange everything in that time?”

  “That’s where you come in. I’m flying backwards and forwards to LA as necessary, but after the tour, you will be back in LA and between the two of us, we can do this. I know we can. You’re all I’ve got Boo. You and Davy, you’re my family you know that.”

  Well, there pings my heartstrings. Yes, we are family. Jen was brought up in foster homes all her life. We met at school and from that moment on we have been like sisters, the three of us joined at the hip. So it goes without saying that I will do my utmost and more, to give Jen the wedding she always dreamed of.