McKenzie Cousins Box Set Three: Books Seven, Eight, Nine

by Lexi Buchanan

  My walk gradually becomes easier, but I know I’m going to have to do something about the burning in my thigh otherwise I’m going to be out of the action for a while. Mallory doesn’t need to worry about me so I move the direction of her thoughts. “Ritter thought it was amusing that you chose the moment he’d entered your room to sleep.” I raise a brow. “You certainly had good timing.”

  She blushes slightly. “I wasn’t asleep at first but then I soon drifted off.”

  “I’m not surprised, you were exhausted.”

  “I don’t suppose there’s anything new to tell me?”

  “Not that I’ve heard.” I glance at the door, and admit, “I don’t think Ritter is going anywhere until he’s spoken to you.”

  “He knows about us?”

  I rub my brow. “I couldn’t let you go when I found you. He noticed.”

  “It’s okay Josh.” She pats the side of the bed.

  I lower myself down, wanting nothing more than to lie down and sleep beside her. Of course I don’t with our boss hovering somewhere behind the closed door of her room.

  “Ritter, isn’t going to like my decision, but I know I’m making the right choice.”

  “What are you talking about?”

  She smiles. “I know. I’m leaving the bureau and going to be a consultant for law enforcement.” She shrugs and then winces. “I’m not sure how it will work or even if I’m going to do it long term, or be good at it, but one thing I’ve learnt since I met you, is that there is more to life than work…I want a life with you…after the case is officially closed. I need to see it through to the end.”

  Placing my hands on the pillows at either side of her face, I lean close and brush my lips over hers. “I don’t want you to do anything, unless it’s what you truly want, Mallory. I will stand by whatever decision you make as long as you’re making it for you.” I kiss her softly. “I’m going to ask for a transfer to the BAU.”

  Her eyes widen. “You saw the email asking if there was any interest in the course?”

  “I did.” I brush my lips across her cheek. “It’s something I’ve been thinking about for a while now. It’s interesting.”

  “Hmm,” she sighs, and lifts a hand, brushing her gentle finger tips across my cheekbone. “When can we go home?”

  “You’re being discharged later today, so we’ll go back to the resort, grab our things and then head to the airport.” I kiss her nose. “I’m not sure what Ritter is going to say, but I’m not going anywhere, Mal.” I grin. “You’re mine.”

  I cut off any response when my lips fasten to hers.

  43

  Mallory

  Ritter leans against the door, staring at me as though he doesn’t know what to say. The fact is, he knows exactly what he wants to say, he’s just considering whether or not tact is needed. My boss is known for telling it as he means it. He doesn’t usually beat about the bush for long.

  He doesn’t this time.

  Sighing, he pushes himself away and moves further into the room. I’ve only stayed here one night and that was enough. The beige walls are bare and there is nothing inside to make anyone feel welcome. It’s a hospital so what exactly could I expect, I don’t know, but even a painting on the wall would help the room to feel less antiseptic.

  “I’ve spoken with Agent Redgrave,” my heart sinks hearing those words leave his mouth, when he continues, “she is under the impression that if you, and Agent McKenzie weren’t so, and I quote ‘all over each other’ end quote, that you wouldn’t have been kidnapped.”

  “That’s ridiculous,” I fume.

  “Hmm,” he winces, “I’m wondering which part you’re saying is ridiculous though.” He raises a brow. “She made some wild accusations, Mallory.” He sighs and indicates for me to sit as he takes the chair Joshua slept on. “I’m only inclined to believe some of what she says because of what I’ve witnessed myself.”

  “Agent Redgrave,” I start slowly, trying to choose my words with caution, “acted unprofessionally in the role of which she had been assigned. Apparently, she graduated Quantico in the same class as McKenzie, and got it into her head that she wanted more.” I wince. “She nearly gave us away a few times, and was removed from the case at the first opportunity.”

  “I don’t have a problem with the judgment call you made in the field, and both Agents, Dillon and Redford, back you up. Both have requested never to work with her again.” He frowns. “They’re senior agents, so I think it’s something I’m going to have to look into more, but for now, I want to know if there is anything going on between Agent McKenzie and you.” His eyes focus on my face and stay there.

  I feel like a bug under a microscope and feel tempted to say no, however, that isn’t what I say, “Once this case is officially closed, I intend to resign.” I exhale and sag on the bed, and notice the shock on Ritter’s face. Clearing my throat, I add, “It’s been on my mind for a while now…and yes, I’m in love with Joshua.” I smile softly. “I didn’t intend for anything to happen between us, but getting assigned with him on this case…I’m in love with him. He has a good career in the bureau and I want to protect that for him. I’ve wanted more for a while now, I just didn’t know what more was until you gave me a new agent.”

  Ritter laughs. “So I’m to blame, huh?”

  I grin. “Yes, Sir.”

  “Now she’s official.” He slaps his thigh and stands. “I’m going to ask you to keep your relationship with McKenzie quiet until your resignation is official.” He smiles. “It won’t be too long as Agent McKenzie asked, and I’ve approved, his request to join the next BAU class. There is a position in the unit if he wants it. SSA McGuire did a training rotation at Quantico and wanted McKenzie in his unit from when McKenzie graduated.” He shakes his head. “I nabbed him first.”

  Ritter moves toward the door. “You know Mallory, I’m going to wait until you’ve handed me a written letter of resignation before I mention your pending departure to anyone.” He offers a wry smile. “Just in case you change your mind, with McKenzie jumping ship.” The door closes behind him.

  Something inside of me had started to dim as I talked to Ritter because he hadn’t mentioned about me staying. I wanted to know I was worth keeping…and now I do. My head has started to ache with everything swirling around inside. Until Ritter mentioned Joshua leaving the unit, I hadn’t really thought about what I’d do if he did. Only what I needed to do to be with Josh. Now that I don’t need to do anything, I’m unsure of my next move.

  No I’m not!

  I’m leaving.

  Sighing, I reach for my cell phone as Paul and Samantha walk into the room. “Your taxi awaits,” Paul says.

  “Thanks guys. This saves time having you drive me to meet Josh.”

  “We packed up last night so it’s no trouble.” Sam gives Paul a casual glance.

  “What?”

  Sam winces. “Agent Redgrave showed up as we were leaving to come for you.”

  “I thought she’d left when we called her away.”

  Paul shakes his head. “She stayed in town and has been a pain in the butt ever since.” He grins. “Ritter has ordered a psych valuation. Waste of time if you ask me. She’s crazy and I don’t need a report to tell me that.”

  “She’s a bit obsessive,” I add.

  Sam snorts and opens the door. “I think it’s time to rescue Agent McKenzie.”

  I roll my eyes. “Josh has charm and will get her to leave without her knowing it was his idea.” I move out of the room. “I trust him.”

  It doesn’t take us long to get to the lodge and when we arrive we find Joshua on the porch with his hands on his hips, looking anything but pleased with the woman in front of him. He glances toward us, and I watch as some of the tension drains from him.

  He really is a sight to behold. His muscular legs are trapped inside dark denim, and the bottle green long-sleeved T-shirt looks so good on his broad shoulders. He grins when he notices me checking him out, and he has no
problem showing me affection as he runs to greet me. His arms immediately wrap around my shoulders and he pulls me in close to the heat of his body. I wrap my arms around his waist and hold on, enjoying the feel of him.

  He whispers. “She’s trying to create problems for us, and refuses to leave until I agree to go on a date with her.”

  I pull back and meet his weary eyes. “Do you think she’s dangerous?”

  “At one time I would have said no, but now, I’m not sure. Her behavior has certainly changed and she’s insistent that we’re meant to be together. As in her, and—”

  “I get it,” I interrupt before he finishes. “That won’t happen.”

  “Glad you agree.” He takes his time kissing along my cheek and lips.

  “Even if you hadn’t fallen for me, she wouldn’t have a chance with you.” I pinch his butt and shiver when he growls in my ear.

  “I knew there was a reason why I love you.” He nibbles on my lobe.

  “I love you too, Josh. So damn much.” Hearing the emotion in my voice he cups my face, however, the moment is broken.

  “When you’ve finished mauling each other, for the last time, I’m waiting.”

  “We’ll have time later.” Josh kisses the tip of my nose and turns to face Redgrave.

  “Clarissa, I’m not sure what is going on with you, but you need to leave us alone and head home.” Josh indicates over to his right and that’s when I notice there are another two agents standing off to the side.

  They move toward Redgrave who hasn’t seen them yet, and until they have hold of each of her arms, she doesn’t. Then her face changes and she starts to panic and tries to wiggle away.

  Joshua curses under his breath. “Let me help them.”

  He runs over and stands in front of Clarissa. I don’t know what he says but she immediately calms down and gets into the waiting car unaided. He shakes the hands of the two agents and stands back while they drive away.

  “What’s going on?” Samantha asks, moving to stand beside me.

  “I have no clue.”

  “The agents were inside the lodge when she showed up, so I asked them if they could drive her to the airport and make sure she made her flight.” He shrugs. “I knew she wasn’t here for anything but trouble. I’d hoped she’d have been gone before you arrived so you didn’t have to see any of that.”

  “Don’t worry about what I saw. I’ve seen much worse.” I cup his jaw and hold him still while I move in and kiss his soft mouth. “Are you okay?”

  “That’s my line.”

  I shake my head. “Not right now it isn’t.”

  He sighs. “I’m fine, now that I have you in my arms.”

  “Do you have any brothers?” Samantha asks. “I’m not fussy as long as he has lines like you.”

  Joshua laughs. “I have a married brother and two sisters. I also have nine cousins, three of which are still unattached.”

  “I bet they’re all girls.”

  “The three I mentioned are all male.” He wraps an arm around my waist and moves me toward an SUV. “I have our bags packed and in the car.”

  Samantha shouts, “I expect an introduction.”

  Laughing he opens the door and helps me into the passenger seat. Leaning in close, he whispers, “I have plans, Mallory.” His tone grows dark. “Very naughty plans that involve you naked.”

  The door slams shut and I’m left with my mouth hanging open while excitement buzzes through me.

  44

  Joshua

  The hotel in Boston on the waterfront has amazing views, however right now my focus is on the beautiful woman lying naked on the bed. Her gorgeous curves make my mouth water and the smooth skin over the curve of her bottom makes me ache so much that I find my hand wrapping around my cock.

  I slowly stroke, building the anticipation as I move slowly to the bed, kneeling between Mallory’s spread thighs. Her legs widen as goose bumps start to cover her body. Forcing my hand from my own body, I touch both her ankles and slowly slide my palms back and forth on her legs. Her breathing becomes heavy and her legs begin to twitch the closer to the apex of her thighs I get. She jerks along with my cock when I slip a finger between the swollen lips of her pussy. I slowly bring my finger up to my lips and taste the sweetness of the woman I love.

  Smiling, I lean over her body and nibble on her earlobe. I dip in closer and whisper, “You’re really wet, Mal?” Nuzzling into her neck, I slip a hand under her and cup a breast.

  Mallory moans and rises giving me more access. Her beaded nipple grazes the palm of my hand as I close it around her breast. I settle my cock between the crease of her bottom and slowly rock, enjoying the sensation of her massaging my hard flesh.

  “Inside me, Josh.” She pushes against me, going to her knees. She looks over her shoulder and her eyes blaze with heat. “I want to feel you—thick and solid—sliding inside my body.”

  Breathing heavily, I draw up to my knees and grab her hips. Her ass is stuck up in the air, and I give her what she wants. What we both want. So I guide my flesh into the tightest, hottest, wettest glove, and nearly come the moment I’m buried deep. “You drive me insane.”

  “I feel so full.” She pulls forward; the wet slide causes a delicious friction, and sends fire straight to my balls.

  “Mallory,” I groan, dropping over her. “I can’t think.”

  “I want to see your face when you come,” she whispers. “I need to, Josh.”

  Gripping her hips in a strong hold, I slowly withdraw, clenching my jaw so tight my teeth grind together. “I’m not going to last.” She quickly turns and wraps her arms around my neck, bringing me on top of her. My dick finds its home and slides back inside. Her legs wrap around my hips, and I can’t control the urge to fuck her hard and fast any longer.

  “Hold on.”

  Holding her gaze, I start thrusting my hips, loving the woman I love. Her nails dig into my shoulders and I dip my face down to claim her lips. Her moaning and writhing drives me on, and then she moves her hands and digs her nails into my ass. The building orgasm in my balls explodes along the length of my swollen dick, and the moment Mallory gasps in my mouth and starts rippling around me, I come. I pull my mouth away from Mallory so we can breathe, and I come so fucking hard that I see stars.

  Mallory grips me hard while she’s overtaken with pleasure, and I can’t stop grinding into her. She’s soaked, swollen and panting hard by the time I manage to bring us down from the high. I try to withdraw, however, Mallory has other ideas and tugs me down until she’s hugging me tight.

  “I love you, Joshua McKenzie.”

  Swallowing hard, I lift my head and gaze into her eyes. “I’ve loved you from the moment I saw you.” I brush her lips with mine. “You are a very special woman, whom I’m squashing right now.” I chuckle.

  Rolling us to our sides, I bring Mallory’s leg over my hip so that I can stay inside of her warm body. I hold her bottom with one of my large hands to stop her from wiggling around, while my other arm wraps around her shoulders, so that she’s using it as a pillow.

  “I could sleep like this.” She mumbles into my neck. “With you wrapped around me, growing bigger inside of me.”

  Amusement bubbles up in my chest. “I’ve no wish to move…at least for now.”

  One of her hands starts caressing my side, slowly moving back and forth, creating goose bumps in the aftermath.

  “I want you to come home with me.” I kiss her sweet lips. “To Lexington, although I’d love for you to be in my apartment in DC.”

  “Mmm, I’d love to be in both places, but Lexington sounds good while we’re both still in the same unit.”

  Hissing, I move my hips and withdraw, not wanting to be buried deeply for this conversation. “I’m leaving, Mal. Ritter has approved my request.” I brush a strand of hair from her beautiful face. “By the end of the week we don’t need to keep our relationship a secret.”

  “I’m still leaving, Josh.” I offer a wry smile. “Ritter
told me that I didn’t need to leave because you were, but I’m happy with my decision.” I sigh. “I know we haven’t talked about the future, but I want to be with you Josh. I want to be free to go with you wherever the FBI transfers you too. I’m pretty sure that I’ll be able to keep my clearance and work as a consultant, so I’ll be able to help you when you need it.” She pinches my butt.

  “What I think,” I press against her, “is that you’re trying to change the subject because you think you don’t know what I’m going to say.” She glances away and then smiles, when I cup her face and force her to hold my gaze. “I love you, and want to spend the rest of my life with you.” I roll us so she’s flat on her back with me slowly entering her body. “You are mine Mallory Jenkins.”

  “Mmm, I think I’m going to need you to remind me on a daily basis, because I love you.”

  And then there’s no more talking.

  45

  Mallory

  Now that I’ve made the decision to leave the bureau, my office just doesn’t mean the same to me. Before it was something I had such pride in, because I’d worked hard to become an SSA, and to have my own unit. I’d accomplished that and got the Unit running smoothly after a reshuffle. It’s now being passed over to another SSA from a different office. As much as I’d wanted to promote a member of the current staff there would have been numerous problems for whomever had been chosen. So I do agree with Ritter in choosing to go outside the office.

  At the moment it’s speculation as to why I’m leaving, and I want to keep it that way for now. Joshua is still in the office and I’ve just caught him yet again, passing a quick glance through my window. It’s been a few days since we’d both reported back to headquarters and I’ve just about managed to stay focused on the paperwork for the case. Today I can’t get Joshua out of my head, and all I’ve done is reply to emails. You’d think I wouldn’t be able to stop working, knowing that I can leave my position once the paperwork is in order. But no, I’m distracted by the handsome agent, who appears just as distracted.