Two
Before leaving with the guys, Jane found a quiet moment to approach Angela in the kitchen. The house buzzed with the familiar warmth of family and laughter, but Jane felt a pressing need to have a serious conversation.
"Ma, can we talk?" Jane asked, her voice gentle yet insistent.
Angela looked up from the counter where she was slicing vegetables, her expression softening immediately. "Of course, Janie. What's on your mind?"
Jane took a deep breath, gathering her thoughts. "It's about Bill. I know he's asked you, and you've said no… but maybe it's time to reconsider. He loves you, Ma. He wants to build a life with you."
Angela sighed deeply, her gaze drifting to the living room where Bill was playfully interacting with Marcy. His laughter echoed through the house, blending with the baby's giggles. "I know, Jane. I do love him. But after everything… I just need to be sure I'm doing this for the right reasons, not because I'm scared of being alone."
Jane stepped closer, her hand resting on her mother's arm. "You're one of the strongest people I know, Ma. You've proven you can stand on your own. Now it's time to let yourself be happy. You deserve it."
Angela's eyes filled with unshed tears as she looked at her daughter. "You always know just what to say, Janie."
Jane hugged her mother tightly, feeling the familiar comfort and strength in her embrace. "Just think about it, okay? Bill is a good man. He makes you happy. That's what matters."
Angela nodded, her emotions welling up as she pulled back to look at Jane. "I will. I promise."
At that moment, Frankie and Tommy's voices rang out from the hallway, calling for Jane to hurry up. She glanced towards the sound, then back at her mother, giving her one last reassuring smile.
Later that night, Jane and the guys arrived at the Baron, the familiar dive bar where they had spent countless nights. The place was buzzing with activity, the jukebox playing a mix of classic rock and country tunes. Jane felt a wave of nostalgia wash over her as they settled into a booth. Soon Vince joined them, and the party had officially begun.
"You look amazing, Jane," Frankie said, raising his beer in a toast. "To the best sister anyone could ask for."
Jane laughed, clinking her glass with his. "Thanks, Frankie. I needed this."
As the night went on, they shared stories, laughter, and a few too many drinks. Jane let herself forget about the worries and responsibilities waiting back at home, basking in the joy of being with her brothers. The camaraderie and the familiar setting were like a soothing balm to her soul.
Just as Jane thought the night couldn't get any better, Tommy spoke up with a mischievous glint in his eye. "You know what would make this even better?"
"What?" Jane asked, intrigued, looking at her brother.
"We didn't know you were into ladies, Janie, so we never knew we could do this with you. But… how about we visit somewhere new?" He stood up and pulled Jane to her feet. "You look too good to waste on the Baron."
The two men with them, Vince and Frankie, exchanged smirks. "Lock up?" Vince said to his night staff, giving them a nod before following the Rizzoli gang out.
Jane found herself laughing as they piled into the car, the alcohol making everything seem funnier and more exciting. "Where are we going?" she asked, the anticipation building.
"You'll see," Frankie said with a wink.
A short drive later, they pulled up to a strip club. The neon lights cast a colorful glow on the pavement, and the music from inside thumped in Jane's chest as they approached the entrance.
"You guys…" Jane began, but her brothers wouldn't hear any objections.
"C'mon, Jane, live a little!" Tommy urged, steering her inside.
The interior was dark and pulsing with energy. Colored lights flashed over the stage where a dancer was performing. Jane couldn't help but feel a mix of amusement and curiosity. It was a far cry from the Baron's cozy, familiar atmosphere, but the novelty was thrilling.
They found a table near the stage, and before long, a dancer approached Jane, smiling seductively. "Looks like someone's ready for a good time," she purred, sliding into Jane's lap.
Jane's eyes widened in surprise, but her brothers cheered and laughed, clearly enjoying her reaction. "You guys are unbelievable," she said, shaking her head with a grin.
The dancer began her routine, and Jane found herself relaxing and even enjoying the experience. It was all in good fun, after all, and the playful atmosphere made her feel more at ease.
As the night continued, Jane couldn't help but reflect on how much she had missed these carefree moments with her family. The bonds that had always held them together felt stronger than ever, and she was grateful for every second of it.
Back at Angela's house, Maura and the ladies were enjoying a more relaxed evening. Marcy was fast asleep in her bouncer, and the living room was filled with soft music and the clinking of wine glasses.
"How's Jane doing?" Kiki asked, taking a sip of her wine.
"She's good," Maura replied with a smile. "I think she really needed this."
Angela nodded in agreement, her thoughts still lingering on her conversation with Jane. "She's always been the strong one. Sometimes I forget she needs to let loose too."
Nina reached out, squeezing Angela's hand. "We all do, sometimes."
As the night drew to a close, Maura found herself feeling more content and hopeful than she had in a long time. She knew the next few days were going to be special, filled with surprises and moments that would strengthen their family bonds even further.
Hours later, Jane returned, her face flushed with excitement and a hint of the buzz from the drinks she had. She found Maura waiting for her in the living room, a knowing smile on her face.
"Have fun?" Maura asked, her eyes twinkling with curiosity.
Jane grinned, her heart full. "Yeah, I did. But I'm glad to be back home with you."
Maura leaned in, kissing her softly. "And I'm glad you're home too. I love you more than anything."
Jane pulled her into a tight embrace. "I love you too, Maura."
Maura held her close, feeling the warmth and passion between them. As they broke the embrace, Jane's gaze turned more serious, her eyes darkening with desire.
"You know," Jane said, her voice dropping to a husky whisper, "I missed you tonight. I missed this." She caressed Maura's cheek tenderly.
Maura smiled, her own desire mirroring Jane's. "I missed you too," she whispered back, leaning into Jane's touch.
They shared a lingering kiss, the taste of each other igniting a fire within them. Jane's hands roamed over Maura's body, tracing the curves and contours she knew so well.
When they finally made their way to the bedroom, Jane didn't hesitate to show Maura just how much she had missed her. Their lovemaking was slow and sensual, each touch and caress a testament to their deep love and connection.
As they lay together afterward, wrapped in each other's arms, Jane whispered words of love and devotion, her heart overflowing with gratitude for the woman lying beside her.