McKenzie Cousins Box Set 2

My heart sinks even though I knew Paige had to have something to do with Rachel showing up unexpectedly.

Before I head back downstairs, I quickly check on Elias and move into his room and peer into his cot. Smiling, I watch as he sleeps deeply on his front. His knees are pulled under him and his butt is sticking up in the air, while his face is turned toward me. He’s so cute that my heart tightens as I leave his room.

Rachel meets me at the bottom of the stairs. “You’ve checked on Elias, huh?”

I nod and she leans into me, resting her face against my neck. “I love this spot, right here.” She kisses. ?

??When I’m resting against you like this, and have my face here, it makes me feel warm and fuzzy—like better than chocolate. You have a subtle scent, and because it’s familiar, it calms me.”

I let the words sink in, and admit, “This is home to me, Rachel. Wherever you are, having you in my arms, will always be my home.”

“Hmm,” she sighs.

I lead her to the large armchair and settle her on my lap. Kissing her cheek, I ask, “Please tell me what’s happened with Paige?”

“She invited Dylan and Jaxon for dinner, which is a usual thing at college. We eat together a lot. Except she also invited Seth, and Brad, who is a friend to the guys.” Rachel sighs. “Brad is interested in me.”

My body goes tense, but Rachel soothes me with caresses back and forth on my arm. “You know I’m only interested in you.” She kisses my lips. “Paige led Brad to think that there could be more between him and me, so it was extremely awkward and I felt awful for letting him down. I then confronted Paige. She led him on and let him think that it was all me. I can’t stay there anymore.”

“As much as I agree with you. I want you to finish college Rachel. You’re so close to finishing.”

“I emailed my adviser and because all I have to finish up is my dissertation, and the Italian trip, she says there is no reason why I have to be in Boston. She did say I may be called into a meeting before the trip, but I told her that wouldn’t be a problem as long as I have a couple of days notice.” She grins. “So, I wondered if you’d like a roommate?”

Chuckling, I hug her closer. “I’d love a permanent roommate.”

“After Italy, we’ll make it permanent.”

“Somewhere down the line, you and Paige really need to get back on track. I hate that I’ve come between you both.”

Rachel shakes her head. “You’re family to us both, she will eventually come around. I hope she will at least. I may get Noah to talk to her. He’s okay with us, I think. Ramon won’t talk about it.”

“Both your fathers are great guys, and I’m sure in the end that once they see how happy we are together, they’ll be okay with us. The same with everyone else.” I sigh. “I actually think nearly everyone knows or suspects anyway.” I shrug when Rachel lifts her head and meets my gaze. “It’s been hinted at.”

“So, our big secret might not be such a big secret after all, huh?”

“We’ll see … so, you’re spending the night here with me, right? I’m taking Elias to the hospital first thing to his mom and dad, and to meet his sister.”

“I’m so happy Sirena had a little girl.”

“I’m not sure Elias will feel the same way, so why don’t we let his parents tell him about his sister.”

“Are you telling me you’re a pussy Alexander McKenzie?”

“Damn straight I am when it involves a young child who will have a complete melt down when he discovers he doesn’t have a baby brother … I can’t believe you called me a pussy!”

She rolls her eyes and smirks. “I have an itch on mine that I think needs investigating.”

“Is that so?” My eyes heat with arousal, as I quickly carry her upstairs to the guest room, and do just that.

18

Rachel

A blush still warms my cheeks from the night before, as I climb out of Alexander’s car at my parents’ house, the cold hits me square in the face.

I offer Alexander a nervous smile and move toward the steps up onto the porch. He joins me, and silently gives me his support as we move into the only home I’ve ever had.

Both Ramon and Noah are in the kitchen sharing a kiss, which they slowly end as we walk in. Ramon holds his arms out and then I’m wrapped up in his embrace. The warmth and strength of him engulfs me, and I know that I will eventually have his support … and Noah’s.