McKenzie Cousins Box Set 3

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.”