Tales From Another Broken Home, chapter 7
---Billie's POV---
The entire plane ride to New Orleans, Adi was tense. I tried to talk to her but she just looked out the window. I have never seen her look so scared. Was this guy, Rick, really that mean to her? If he was, I do not know what I will do, but it will not be good for him. How can someone cause Adi so much pain? We finally landed in New Orleans. I caught us a cab to take us to the hotel. Maybe on the ride over we can talk?
"Adi? Please, talk to me baby."
"What? What is there to talk about?"
"Well, the way you are acting, for starters. I've never felt so distant from you. I hate this feeling. Just let me in. Why are you so scared?"
"I... I really don't know. I've never feared anyone my entire life and then I met him. He just scares the shit outta me. One minute he is nice and caring and the next he is violent and abusive. Just being in the city again scares me."
"It's okay, I'm here now. Remember that you won't be alone this time, okay? I'm by your side and I always will be."
I held Adi in my arms and she cried into my chest. Hearing her sadness and muffled sobs, her tears soaking into my shirt made me realize how bad this guy was to her.
---Adi's POV---
I'm so glad that Billie's here. Just having him around makes me feel better. His strong arms around me, holding me and protecting me. I almost never want to let go. The cab pulled to a stop and Billie got our bags. I offered to help but he protested. The hotel was gorgeous. The interior was so amazing, deep red carpet, marble floors and columns, real gold trim around the doorways and spiral staircases. It was lavish, like it belonged in a museum or a palace. We walked to the front desk.
"Hello and welcome to zee Chateau Sonesta," said the host in a deep French accent.
"Yeah, hi. I'm here to check in."
"Name?"
"Billie Joe Armstrong."
"Yes, zee honeymoon suite. Room 3605, John will get your things and here is your key."
"Thanks."
"Billie, this place is amazing. I never thought I would actually be staying here. This is one of the most infamous hotels in the city."
"Nothing but the best for my girl. Wait 'til you see the room we have. I thought, since our divorces are gonna be finalized and all, we could have, like, a pre-honeymoon honeymoon."
He slid the key into the electronic lock and it switched open. I almost stopped breathing when I saw the suite. It had two floors. White walls, but not the bland kind, that heavenly white. The biggest, most comfortable bed I had ever seen, wine on the bedside table, even a Jacuzzi in the center of an amazing view of the French Quarter.
"Oh my God! It's beautiful. It's the most beautiful thing I've ever seen, look at that view."
"Not as beautiful as you."
His arms came across my shoulders and he held me, his chin resting on top of my head. He turned me around and kissed my forehead, like he always did those years ago.
"I love you so much, Adi. I don't know how to show you sometimes."
"You don't have to show me."
He grabbed me closer to his body and gave me a passionate kiss. He was warm, and his hands were a bit sweaty. I did not think it was that hot, a January afternoon. I think he had other thoughts in mind, but he kept them to himself.
"Well, you wanna go?" he asked, half-hopingly.
"Yeah, let's get this over with."
We unpacked our bags and got dressed. I had to look presentable. I have to show Rick how much better off I am with Billie. We walked down to the foyer and called for another cab.
"Where ya wanna go?" asked the driver.
"5893 Clearmont Avenue," I replied.
"Sure thing, Miss."
On the ride over I started to feel sick, again. Why did I feel this way? I have Billie here and he will not let anything happen to me. What if something happens to him? I would never be able to live with myself. I tried to block out negative thought from my head as best as I could.
"Are you sure you're okay? If you aren't up to it I'll just ask him myself." Billie said. It was as if he read my mind.
"No... no. I have to face him."
The cab came to a stop and dropped us off. I never wanted to see that house again. It's pale, faded yellow color, it's unkempt yard. Just the scent made me want to throw up. My feet buckled together as I led Billie to the door. He saw how scared I was and he gave me a hug. After I appeared somewhat calm he rang the bell. A few seconds went by and I saw Rick. He should not even be considered part of the human race. At that instant, all my memories of the years of abuse reappeared in my mind. I wanted to kill him. I wanted to put him through the same pain I had gone through, no, he deserves worse.
"Whatcha want? Adiana, dat you? You finally came back?"
"N... No, I want a divorce."
"A divorce? You divorcing' me? You don't even deserve to talk to me, you fuckin' bitch. Now get your ass in da house."
Rick reached to pull me inside when Billie intercepted him. This rage came into his eyes I had never seen. It was as if it triggered some inner demon within Billie. It scared me to see him like that, emotionless. He grabbed Rick's arm so tight I thought it might draw blood. Rick was visibly in pain.
"What da fuck? Get your hands off me, you piece of shit. Hey, I know you. You that rock star Adiana used to know. I think your music is shit."
And with that Rick spit in Billie's face. Obviously, this was not a smart idea, then again, Rick is a sick son of a bitch. Billie grabbed him by the throat and threw him inside. Before Rick could scramble to his feet, Billie grabbed his arm again, tighter this time.
"Now then. We did not come here to be insulted. Mr. Thibodeaux, I recommend, for your future health, that you should refrain from getting on my bad side. I have, in my hand, a series of papers. These papers are about you and Adi's divorce. Either you sign these papers or I'll be up all night getting blood off of my new suit. So, what will it be?"
Rick looked at Billie with a mixture of hate and fear and he swung at him. His fist colliding with Billie's face. I saw blood trickle from his lip.
"Why the fuck you care so much about that whore? You could have anyone, you don't want her, trust me."
Billie punched Rick square in the face and blood started flowing out of his nose.
"That's not what I asked you. If you insult me or my fiancée again, I will really be upset.
The way Billie said upset sent shivers down my spine. His voice was devoid of emotion. His green, peaceful eyes were gone, replaced by those of an infuriated madman. At this point I did not know who to fear more, Rick or Billie. I prayed that his eyes would come back, that he would come back, the man I loved for all these years. His new found persona was cold and dark.
"That's what this is all about. The slut probably ran to you, told ya some sob story and ya took her back. She's just scammin' ya."
"Rick, just shut the fuck up and sign the papers!" I screamed, tears streaming down my face.
"Ya shut your face, I still own you, ya bitch."
Rick started charging for me, his arm pulled back ready to beat me. Billie ran after him and twisted his arm into a three hundred and sixty degree angle. Rick screamed in pain.
"You don't talk to Adi, you don't deserve to. I will ask you nicely only once more, sign the papers."
Rick finally gave in and signed on each dotted line. He looked infuriated as I smiled at Billie, his eyes returned, that gorgeous, calm green. Billie grabbed Rick by his shirt collar.
"If you ever think of coming after Adi, you're fucking dead. I was letting you off easy because Adi was here. I won't make that mistake again."
Rick was left wallowing in pain and the misery of defeat as we walked out of the house. As Billie closed the door I threw myself at him. I wrapped my legs around his waist and gave him a huge kiss.
"Yes, I'm free! I'm finally yours Billie, after all of these year's, I'm finally yours."
He could not help but smile. He must have planned ahead of time because a limousine came and picked us up. He carried me to the back and we started to kiss each other harder.
"Adi, I can't wait 'till we get married. I love you so much, baby. Now we are gonna be able to spend the rest of our lives together. Promise me you'll never leave. I cannot lose you again."
"I don't have to promise. I would rather die than live without you, Billie."
We started to make out and things got heated. Thank God the limo had tinted windows. We usually used protection but this was a time to be spontaneous. Something was different this time, I felt something after it was over, I felt like a new person. The limo pulled up to Tortorichi's restaurant in the French Quarter. Billie and I straightened ourselves and we got out.
---Billie's POV---
That Rick is one sick fuck. If Adi had not been there I would have lost it. I do not think I have ever been that angry in my life. How could she have taken that for thirteen years? Adi has gone through so much in her life. When we get married I am going to make sure nothing bad happens to her. No one is going to treat her like shit, like that Rick guy did. Rick, I despise that name, just thinking it makes me pissed. I took Adi's hand and we walked inside Tortorichi's, this great, Greek restaurant in New Orleans. Adiana said she used to work here over the summer when she was younger and she had gotten along well with the owner, George. Adi's face lit up as an old, white-haired, kind looking man walked to the table.
"Adiana! I haven't seen ya in years. How have ya been?" he asked in a thick, Greek accent.
"Oh, I've been good, George, You look good. You been losin' weight?"
"Ah, no babe. I been puttin' on some though. New cook, he's good." he said laughing and putting his belly.
"Well, good to know we'll enjoy our food."
"Who is this? Hello, my name is George, George Tortorichi." he said, holding out his hand for me to shake, I took it gladly.
"Hi, I'm Billie Joe Armstrong, Adiana's fiancé."
"Oh, Adiana, baby, you getting's married?"
"Yes. As soon as we choose where to hold it."
"Opah! This call for a celebration. I get da lamb!"
I could not help but smile, he reminded me a bit of my father. I wish he were still alive to see the wedding, hell, I wish he were still alive to meet Adi. They would get along so well. The little celebration George had thrown Adi and I lasted well into the night. We did not arrive at the hotel until three in the morning. Adi had fallen asleep in the car so I carried her up to our suite in my arms. I placed her on the bed and took of her shoes and jewelry for her. I took off my clothes down to my boxers and got in bed. I could not sleep, my mind was racing as it reflected on the day. I watched her sleep. I think it was the first time I watched anyone sleep, besides Joey and Jake. Strands of her long, jet black hair covered her face, I put it behind her ear. She was out cold, into her deep sleep, dreaming. I watched her chest rise and fall with every breath she took. I was guessing her dream was a good one, her lips curved into a smile. Her perfect, full lips. I kissed her forehead and turned over. I eventually fell asleep.
---Adi's POV---
I awoke around nine in the morning. The last thing I remember was falling asleep in the car. I looked down, still in my clothes from last night. Billie must have carried me in. I turned over, Billie was asleep, wearing only his boxers, lightly snoring. I decided to let him sleep. I quietly got out of bed and dressed. I went down to the foyer and walked around the huge, indoor pool. Being around water always comforted me. I dipped my feet in the water, it was refreshing. I walked back to our suite and ordered Billie and myself breakfast. As soon as the food arrived Billie woke up, figures. He always had an appetite.
"Good morning, sleepy head."
"Hey, babe," said Billie, yawning and stretching. He scratched his head sleepily and made room on the bed for me and the food.
"Breakfast in bed. I don' think that I've ever had breakfast in bed."
"Well, there's a first time for everything, Mr. Armstrong."
He laughed and we both dug in. I was so full after breakfast I could barely move. Billie laughed and ate the rest of my food. For a skinny guy he could eat.
"I think we should start planning for the wedding."
"Well, what's there to plan?"
"Where are we going to hold it? You need a tuxedo and I need a gown. Best man, maid of honor, flower girl, and ring bearer. The music. I'm so nervous. It has to be perfect."
"Okay, calm down. There's no need for you to be nervous. We'll have it in our backyard. Adeline Street is branching out into formal wear and our clothes are being made as we speak. Mike is my best man. Your friend, Spud, has been meaning to get in contact with you, I know she would love to be maid of honor. Estelle is our flower girl. Joey and Jake will bother be our ring bearers. Green Day, of course, will be the music. There, no sweat."
I loved how easy he made everything. He made a major problem look small and miniscule. Billie gave me a hug and rubbed his hand up and down my back. Breathe, all I have to do is breathe. In two weeks you're marrying the love of your life. Just breathe.
The entire plane ride to New Orleans, Adi was tense. I tried to talk to her but she just looked out the window. I have never seen her look so scared. Was this guy, Rick, really that mean to her? If he was, I do not know what I will do, but it will not be good for him. How can someone cause Adi so much pain? We finally landed in New Orleans. I caught us a cab to take us to the hotel. Maybe on the ride over we can talk?
"Adi? Please, talk to me baby."
"What? What is there to talk about?"
"Well, the way you are acting, for starters. I've never felt so distant from you. I hate this feeling. Just let me in. Why are you so scared?"
"I... I really don't know. I've never feared anyone my entire life and then I met him. He just scares the shit outta me. One minute he is nice and caring and the next he is violent and abusive. Just being in the city again scares me."
"It's okay, I'm here now. Remember that you won't be alone this time, okay? I'm by your side and I always will be."
I held Adi in my arms and she cried into my chest. Hearing her sadness and muffled sobs, her tears soaking into my shirt made me realize how bad this guy was to her.
---Adi's POV---
I'm so glad that Billie's here. Just having him around makes me feel better. His strong arms around me, holding me and protecting me. I almost never want to let go. The cab pulled to a stop and Billie got our bags. I offered to help but he protested. The hotel was gorgeous. The interior was so amazing, deep red carpet, marble floors and columns, real gold trim around the doorways and spiral staircases. It was lavish, like it belonged in a museum or a palace. We walked to the front desk.
"Hello and welcome to zee Chateau Sonesta," said the host in a deep French accent.
"Yeah, hi. I'm here to check in."
"Name?"
"Billie Joe Armstrong."
"Yes, zee honeymoon suite. Room 3605, John will get your things and here is your key."
"Thanks."
"Billie, this place is amazing. I never thought I would actually be staying here. This is one of the most infamous hotels in the city."
"Nothing but the best for my girl. Wait 'til you see the room we have. I thought, since our divorces are gonna be finalized and all, we could have, like, a pre-honeymoon honeymoon."
He slid the key into the electronic lock and it switched open. I almost stopped breathing when I saw the suite. It had two floors. White walls, but not the bland kind, that heavenly white. The biggest, most comfortable bed I had ever seen, wine on the bedside table, even a Jacuzzi in the center of an amazing view of the French Quarter.
"Oh my God! It's beautiful. It's the most beautiful thing I've ever seen, look at that view."
"Not as beautiful as you."
His arms came across my shoulders and he held me, his chin resting on top of my head. He turned me around and kissed my forehead, like he always did those years ago.
"I love you so much, Adi. I don't know how to show you sometimes."
"You don't have to show me."
He grabbed me closer to his body and gave me a passionate kiss. He was warm, and his hands were a bit sweaty. I did not think it was that hot, a January afternoon. I think he had other thoughts in mind, but he kept them to himself.
"Well, you wanna go?" he asked, half-hopingly.
"Yeah, let's get this over with."
We unpacked our bags and got dressed. I had to look presentable. I have to show Rick how much better off I am with Billie. We walked down to the foyer and called for another cab.
"Where ya wanna go?" asked the driver.
"5893 Clearmont Avenue," I replied.
"Sure thing, Miss."
On the ride over I started to feel sick, again. Why did I feel this way? I have Billie here and he will not let anything happen to me. What if something happens to him? I would never be able to live with myself. I tried to block out negative thought from my head as best as I could.
"Are you sure you're okay? If you aren't up to it I'll just ask him myself." Billie said. It was as if he read my mind.
"No... no. I have to face him."
The cab came to a stop and dropped us off. I never wanted to see that house again. It's pale, faded yellow color, it's unkempt yard. Just the scent made me want to throw up. My feet buckled together as I led Billie to the door. He saw how scared I was and he gave me a hug. After I appeared somewhat calm he rang the bell. A few seconds went by and I saw Rick. He should not even be considered part of the human race. At that instant, all my memories of the years of abuse reappeared in my mind. I wanted to kill him. I wanted to put him through the same pain I had gone through, no, he deserves worse.
"Whatcha want? Adiana, dat you? You finally came back?"
"N... No, I want a divorce."
"A divorce? You divorcing' me? You don't even deserve to talk to me, you fuckin' bitch. Now get your ass in da house."
Rick reached to pull me inside when Billie intercepted him. This rage came into his eyes I had never seen. It was as if it triggered some inner demon within Billie. It scared me to see him like that, emotionless. He grabbed Rick's arm so tight I thought it might draw blood. Rick was visibly in pain.
"What da fuck? Get your hands off me, you piece of shit. Hey, I know you. You that rock star Adiana used to know. I think your music is shit."
And with that Rick spit in Billie's face. Obviously, this was not a smart idea, then again, Rick is a sick son of a bitch. Billie grabbed him by the throat and threw him inside. Before Rick could scramble to his feet, Billie grabbed his arm again, tighter this time.
"Now then. We did not come here to be insulted. Mr. Thibodeaux, I recommend, for your future health, that you should refrain from getting on my bad side. I have, in my hand, a series of papers. These papers are about you and Adi's divorce. Either you sign these papers or I'll be up all night getting blood off of my new suit. So, what will it be?"
Rick looked at Billie with a mixture of hate and fear and he swung at him. His fist colliding with Billie's face. I saw blood trickle from his lip.
"Why the fuck you care so much about that whore? You could have anyone, you don't want her, trust me."
Billie punched Rick square in the face and blood started flowing out of his nose.
"That's not what I asked you. If you insult me or my fiancée again, I will really be upset.
The way Billie said upset sent shivers down my spine. His voice was devoid of emotion. His green, peaceful eyes were gone, replaced by those of an infuriated madman. At this point I did not know who to fear more, Rick or Billie. I prayed that his eyes would come back, that he would come back, the man I loved for all these years. His new found persona was cold and dark.
"That's what this is all about. The slut probably ran to you, told ya some sob story and ya took her back. She's just scammin' ya."
"Rick, just shut the fuck up and sign the papers!" I screamed, tears streaming down my face.
"Ya shut your face, I still own you, ya bitch."
Rick started charging for me, his arm pulled back ready to beat me. Billie ran after him and twisted his arm into a three hundred and sixty degree angle. Rick screamed in pain.
"You don't talk to Adi, you don't deserve to. I will ask you nicely only once more, sign the papers."
Rick finally gave in and signed on each dotted line. He looked infuriated as I smiled at Billie, his eyes returned, that gorgeous, calm green. Billie grabbed Rick by his shirt collar.
"If you ever think of coming after Adi, you're fucking dead. I was letting you off easy because Adi was here. I won't make that mistake again."
Rick was left wallowing in pain and the misery of defeat as we walked out of the house. As Billie closed the door I threw myself at him. I wrapped my legs around his waist and gave him a huge kiss.
"Yes, I'm free! I'm finally yours Billie, after all of these year's, I'm finally yours."
He could not help but smile. He must have planned ahead of time because a limousine came and picked us up. He carried me to the back and we started to kiss each other harder.
"Adi, I can't wait 'till we get married. I love you so much, baby. Now we are gonna be able to spend the rest of our lives together. Promise me you'll never leave. I cannot lose you again."
"I don't have to promise. I would rather die than live without you, Billie."
We started to make out and things got heated. Thank God the limo had tinted windows. We usually used protection but this was a time to be spontaneous. Something was different this time, I felt something after it was over, I felt like a new person. The limo pulled up to Tortorichi's restaurant in the French Quarter. Billie and I straightened ourselves and we got out.
---Billie's POV---
That Rick is one sick fuck. If Adi had not been there I would have lost it. I do not think I have ever been that angry in my life. How could she have taken that for thirteen years? Adi has gone through so much in her life. When we get married I am going to make sure nothing bad happens to her. No one is going to treat her like shit, like that Rick guy did. Rick, I despise that name, just thinking it makes me pissed. I took Adi's hand and we walked inside Tortorichi's, this great, Greek restaurant in New Orleans. Adiana said she used to work here over the summer when she was younger and she had gotten along well with the owner, George. Adi's face lit up as an old, white-haired, kind looking man walked to the table.
"Adiana! I haven't seen ya in years. How have ya been?" he asked in a thick, Greek accent.
"Oh, I've been good, George, You look good. You been losin' weight?"
"Ah, no babe. I been puttin' on some though. New cook, he's good." he said laughing and putting his belly.
"Well, good to know we'll enjoy our food."
"Who is this? Hello, my name is George, George Tortorichi." he said, holding out his hand for me to shake, I took it gladly.
"Hi, I'm Billie Joe Armstrong, Adiana's fiancé."
"Oh, Adiana, baby, you getting's married?"
"Yes. As soon as we choose where to hold it."
"Opah! This call for a celebration. I get da lamb!"
I could not help but smile, he reminded me a bit of my father. I wish he were still alive to see the wedding, hell, I wish he were still alive to meet Adi. They would get along so well. The little celebration George had thrown Adi and I lasted well into the night. We did not arrive at the hotel until three in the morning. Adi had fallen asleep in the car so I carried her up to our suite in my arms. I placed her on the bed and took of her shoes and jewelry for her. I took off my clothes down to my boxers and got in bed. I could not sleep, my mind was racing as it reflected on the day. I watched her sleep. I think it was the first time I watched anyone sleep, besides Joey and Jake. Strands of her long, jet black hair covered her face, I put it behind her ear. She was out cold, into her deep sleep, dreaming. I watched her chest rise and fall with every breath she took. I was guessing her dream was a good one, her lips curved into a smile. Her perfect, full lips. I kissed her forehead and turned over. I eventually fell asleep.
---Adi's POV---
I awoke around nine in the morning. The last thing I remember was falling asleep in the car. I looked down, still in my clothes from last night. Billie must have carried me in. I turned over, Billie was asleep, wearing only his boxers, lightly snoring. I decided to let him sleep. I quietly got out of bed and dressed. I went down to the foyer and walked around the huge, indoor pool. Being around water always comforted me. I dipped my feet in the water, it was refreshing. I walked back to our suite and ordered Billie and myself breakfast. As soon as the food arrived Billie woke up, figures. He always had an appetite.
"Good morning, sleepy head."
"Hey, babe," said Billie, yawning and stretching. He scratched his head sleepily and made room on the bed for me and the food.
"Breakfast in bed. I don' think that I've ever had breakfast in bed."
"Well, there's a first time for everything, Mr. Armstrong."
He laughed and we both dug in. I was so full after breakfast I could barely move. Billie laughed and ate the rest of my food. For a skinny guy he could eat.
"I think we should start planning for the wedding."
"Well, what's there to plan?"
"Where are we going to hold it? You need a tuxedo and I need a gown. Best man, maid of honor, flower girl, and ring bearer. The music. I'm so nervous. It has to be perfect."
"Okay, calm down. There's no need for you to be nervous. We'll have it in our backyard. Adeline Street is branching out into formal wear and our clothes are being made as we speak. Mike is my best man. Your friend, Spud, has been meaning to get in contact with you, I know she would love to be maid of honor. Estelle is our flower girl. Joey and Jake will bother be our ring bearers. Green Day, of course, will be the music. There, no sweat."
I loved how easy he made everything. He made a major problem look small and miniscule. Billie gave me a hug and rubbed his hand up and down my back. Breathe, all I have to do is breathe. In two weeks you're marrying the love of your life. Just breathe.
