Free Radiant Surrender (CSA Case Files Book 6) by Kennedy Layne

more to him than just a former assistant, that’s when she would give his recommendations credence. “I had things handled.”
    “Really? While you were looking inside the vehicles you weren’t paying attention to the house you just sidled up to. The FBI is currently positioned on all sides of your parents’ residence, including the one you’re leaning against. You would have been caught before you ever opened your parents’ front door.”
    Jessie’s breath caught in her throat at the thought that she’d almost made a disastrous mistake. She wouldn’t admit that yet though, for that would give Gavin too much authority. There had to be a way inside. She needed access and if he would give her a moment to think instead of trying to get her to leave, she’d come up with an idea.
    “We need a distraction.” Jessie tried to push against him, but it was like trying to move steel. “Gavin, I need to get into that house.”
    “We’ll discuss it later.” Gavin started to pull back, but he pressed his weight against her when she stated it had to be now. Her heart raced when he got even closer than before. “You are the most stubborn, willful, tenacious—”
    Gavin’s lips closed over hers, preventing either one of them saying anything else. For a brief moment all of Jessie’s troubles melted away and it was just the two of them…the way it was meant to be. His heat enveloped her, taking away the fear and worry that had plagued her for the last twenty-four hours. His sweet taste glided over her tongue, his masculine scent infused her senses, and the blood rushed through her ears. She curled her fingers, bundling up the soft black fabric in her hands. She’d waited years to feel him claim her and it was beyond anything she’d ever felt before. Jessie had never doubted it would be like this between the two of them.
    His warm hands were now cradling her face, tilting her head at an angle and allowing him better access. She swore her heart stopped momentarily when his tongue sliced across her lower lip. She’d longed for this, yearned for this…and it was more than she’d ever imagined. It was perfect. That was, before he tore himself away.
    “We’re not getting into that house tonight. Whatever it is that you’re after, we’ll obtain it after I’ve diffused the situation with the FBI.” Gavin pulled away, the clouds parting enough to show his schooled features. He spoke as if he’d never touched her. He was wearing a long-sleeved black shirt and black jeans. It was rare that he was in casual clothing, but he wore them just as well as he did his Armani suits. She wanted to address what had just happened, but at the same time she wanted to tell him that they were both dressed for this mission she’d embarked on. He didn’t give her the chance. “I should know by tomorrow if a full pardon will be granted. As for the moment, I’m getting you somewhere safe so that your ass doesn’t end up in federal custody tonight. That is, of course, unless you were looking forward to a full body cavity search by some old prison matron nicknamed Cruella .”
    Gavin had a firm grip on her wrist, so when he started walking back the way she’d come she had no choice but to follow without making noise. By the time they’d crossed two of the neighborhood streets she figured they were far enough away for her to have her say.
    “Even you have your limitations, Gavin,” Jessie said, keeping her tone low. “Ryland isn’t going to be granted that pardon and I’m going to be in the same situation then I am now. We’re here, just yards from the information I need. Let me—”
    “We’re not discussing this here.” Gavin didn’t stop until he was at a vehicle that she’d never seen before. He opened the passenger side and brought her around to stand in front of him. His green eyes appeared like hardened crystals in the moonlight as he zeroed his gaze on her. “Get in.”
    “You’re mad.” Jessie had been too caught up