Chapter 71
Natalie felt bereft when the connection was severed. Just being able to look at them had made her feel better. Now she was stuck with these two and she desperately wanted to believe that they would do as Hawkins had said and not touch her for 72 hours, but she had little real faith that was the case. Plus, she couldnt help but thinking that there was no way they were just going to give up if John, Mason and Chase got close. Her gut and the training she had received thus far told her this was a trap. She had no doubt that Hawkins hate for Mason and John was real. If she was right, then they were using her as the bait to lure them in. They would try to kill their enemies and theyd take her anyway. She had to think stay as calm as possible and plan something anything that she could do if it seemed like they were getting close to finding her some way to warn them or stop Hawkins and Gentry from harming them.
Hawkins stood with Natalie still in his arms. He was built quite like his son shorter and squatter than Mason, but powerfully built. He looked at her and smiled at her and it made her blood run cold. Was that talk getting you excited, Natalie? Was that ever your fantasy? My boy and I, we can make it come true we will make it come truebut even though some give me no credit, I DO try to keep my word once Ive given it and I have told my boy I expect him to be good, too but itll be hard he then dumped her on the mattress and began to dismantle some, though not all, of the equipment.
John, Mason and Chase were quiet for several moments trying to absorb everything and it was a LOT. They had all heard more than they wanted and the thought of Natalie stuck with those two in chains in her underwear. It was a recipe for disaster even if they did ultimately find her.
Chase broke the silence, OK, what do we know? Does anyone have any idea where he might have taken her? It looked like some crappy cabin or something onscreen.
John tried to engage his brain, he had to they had to work on finding Natalie, not being scared for herWell, not quite four hours elapsed between the time he grabbed her and the videoconference. In that time we have to assume that he switched cars at least once and wherever he is, he said theyre buried, so my operating assumption is deep in some woods where it would be hard to see them from the air the question is, did he already have all that equipment set up, or did he have to do that after they got there which would have taken some time so where are the woodsthe forests around here where he could get them lost where we would have a challenge to penetrate them where there might be a cabin
Mason was tracking with what John was saying he thought he was right with his line of thinking, and it was triggering some memories for him of his CIA training finally he said, The CIA training grounds. About 10,000 acres that no one knows belong to them. 90% of it is dense woods. It only takes about an hour to drive there. Some of my memories are hazy because I was there during my final hazing and hell week during torture but there are at least 3 shacks they are pretty well spread out in those woods, though. But Hawkins knows that place like the back of his hand. Hed feel like he had an advantage over us who knows what resources hes buried out there
That sounds promising said Chase. And John agreed. Chase continued, One thing, though. I dont believe for a second that Hawkins intends to give Natalie up. I think we have to be prepared for the likelihood that this is a trap. That in the end he really wants us to find him which is why I think youre right, Mason, about him going to those woods. He probably knows youll think of them
Chase had given voice to what Mason and John had already thought that this was a trap. This was a vicious game that Hawkins was going to play with them all, but play it they would because Natalie was the bait and they were going to have to figure out a way to beat Hawkins and Gentry and their own game.
John said quietly, Well, we have no choice, do we? We have to play the game. But lets not forget Natalie. She isnt a civilian whos been taken by madmen. She is a trained operative she has skills and steel. If she can hold on to that steel she can use those skills
Chase and Mason just nodded. He was right but she had been through so much already. How much more could she find within her?
John spoke up again, OK, whats our plan? We need maps of those woodswe also need to come up with a list of other places he COULD have taken her and make sure someone is searching there. Can we finally get the CIA to really help us with this? And we should give her classmates the chance to help they were all talented in their own right, even before the extra training theyve gotten here and of course all available agents but EVERYONE needs to be told that they MUST stand down when they get close and then we have to get to the hotspot as quickly as possible we also will need aerial support figure out best weapons do we travel on foot?
Mason and Chase exchanged glances John was now in the zone and they were glad. He needed to do this and they needed him at his best. Soon they had divvied up responsibilities. Chase was going to brief and prepare all FBI and local law enforcement and ask the Director to reach out to the CIA Director. Mason was going to work his CIA back channels to get the G-2 on the woods, maps, cabins, etc. And John was going to update Natalies classmates and see who wanted to take part. All this was to be done within 2 hours, tops. Then they would map out their plan for diving into those woods and finding Natalie.
When John, Mason and Chase re-assembled they were all fully outfitted in camo, and had backpacks loaded down with provisions. They also had night vision goggles and plenty of firearms and munitions. Natalies best buddies were going to join these three in their search efforts they would be able to carry more provisions and arms. But they also knew the time would come when they would have to yield. All of Natalies classmates had volunteered to help, no matter the danger. Soon they had planned out their approach to the woods and had prepped the various search teams with maps, insights into what they faced with Hawkins and Gentry including the fact that it was likely a trap and they should expect deadly force and also with strict instruction NOT to interdict Hawkins and Gentry. That they needed to call Mason, John and Chase if they thought they had found them. The teams were all going to drive to various entry points into the forest, but then they had to go on foot. Even though some of the terrain was navigable via vehicle, it would announce their approach from miles away. That was why they were going to need most of the 72 hours going slowly and quietly on foot was going to be the challenge.
Chapter 72
The next 60 hours passed in a sense of optimism, followed by dashed hopes, followed by a fear of futility, followed by hard-gained optimism again. John, Mason and Chase remained sure that they were right about where Hawkins and Gentry had taken Natalie. Unfortunately they had to guess about which cabin was being used and they had clearly chosen the worst order the first two were empty. They had 12 more hours, which should be ample time, but they hated that Natalie was stuck with those bastards this long. Plus they were tired and cold, and hungry given the sparse rations theyd taken time to eat. They had hoped to be as fresh as possible for the altercation sure to come, but they were now going to have to find a third or fourth wind.
For Natalie the time was glacial. It was almost worse than her torture sessions because at least then she had something to concentrate on to try to get through They fed her halfway decently and had let her take a bath every day but they had watched her do so and it was unnerving. Still, she needed to feel clean and the heated water helped her feel less numb. She also noticed that Gentry was finding it harder and harder to keep in line. When his dad went out to scout for signs of anyone approaching and to ensure his early warning signals were in place Gentry had gotten in the habit of stripping down and parading in front of Natalie, his arousal evident, and telling her what he planned to do to her with it once he could. The most recent time hed actually begun to jerk himself off. He even begged his father to just let him kiss her, but mercifully Hawkins had turned him down flat and lectured him on the beauty of delayed gratification spoken like a true stalker, Natalie had thought.
She had been turning over plans in her head all along on how she might take action save herself spare John, Mason and Chase from any harm. She kept coming back to the same plan, but it made her blood run cold because it had a huge chance of backfiring on her. But she had heard enough of Hawkins and Gentrys whispered conversations to know that she was right. They were going to take the others out as soon as they got close and then shed be taken away to whatever secret hiding place Hawkins had set up for himself as his ultimate escape.
About six hours before the deadline some alarms started going off. Hawkins was gleeful and he said, Theyve reached the outer perimeter. Theyre only about a two hours out on foot. This is perfect. Im going to go make sure the rest of our fail-safes are in place. Ill be back in 45 minutes at the latest probably only half hour though
I want to take out McBain, pops. HES mine
Fine if thats how it works out the most important thing is to get them all and get them quick!
Natalie knew she had no choice she had to act.
Gentry was clearly charged up and spoiling for a fight he was also heated up in other areas He stripped off all his clothes again as he began to do some push-ups and other exercises, making sure Natalie had a view. She began to prepare herself for what she knew she must do. She had to steel herself for what was to come. She laughed privately to herself because all of a sudden Lady Macbeth popped into her head more particularly her soliloquy invocating evil when she was preparing herself to kill Duncan when she was begging the spirits to take her female characteristics away so shed be strong enough resolved enough. Natalie finally understood the true meaning of that passage, and she whispered it to herselfsurprised she remembered it
Come, you spirits that tend on mortal thoughts, unsex me here, and fill me from the crown to the toe top-full of direst cruelty! Make thick my blood; stop up the access and passage to remorse, that no compunctious visitings of nature shake my fell purpose, nor keep peace between the effect and it! Come to my womans breasts, and take my milk for gall you murdering ministers, wherever in your sightless substances you wait on natures mischief! Come, thick night, and pall thee in the dunnest smoke of hell, that my keen knife see not the wound it makes, nor heaven peep through the blanket of the dark, to cry Hold, hold!
It was time.
Gentry I have to say, Im impressed you really are such a good boy toeing your fathers line I didnt think youd listen to anyone thought you were your own man but I guess everyone has someone theyre afraid of that the cow-tow to
He swung around and stalked closer to her, where she was sitting on her mattress. What the fuck are you talking about Im my own man Im not afraid of my father!
Oh, OK.. OK.. sorry I didnt mean to offend its just never mind
Never mind what? WHAT?!
Well, its obvious that youve had some particular activities in mind when it comes to me there was that night in the car, and then these past few days and, well, look at you now she looked pointedly at his erection. Yet you scurry to get dressed as soon as you hear him coming hes got you right where he wants you I mean, do you really believe hes going to share me with you? I mean, maybe eventually, but right away? Dont you think hell take his turn or turns first?
She could see him getting more and more agitated and then, holding her breath, reminding herself she needed this to happen in some crazy sense wanted it to happen she went in for the kill, But, hey, its all right with me.. I prefer men over boys anyway
As she had both hoped and feared, he snapped and in a second he was on her and she was lying flat on the bed under his crushing weight. Oh, yeah, bitch maybe I should just take a little now, then get mine and then he can have as much as he wants while I laugh behind his back and youre not going to tell him or I will make sure I hurt you worse than youve ever been hurt in your life yeah... lets have a little fun, Buchanan.
He pulled off her only so he could yank her underwear down so they were by her ankles over her ankle cuffs and again she swallowed hard and reminded herself that she wanted this, though she hoped the worst wouldnt happen. That it could be kept within some boundaries. He shoved her legs apart roughly and then he pushed a finger inside her and she couldnt help a small yelp of pain.
Shit Buchanan! You are dry as a desert like fucking sand paper I cant fuck you yet, youd shred the skin off my dick Im going to have to spend a bit of time elsewhere to get you wet, baby
Natalie held her breath a second and then said, Well last time when you well, my breasts are very sensitive
Oh, yeah? Did you like that then? I thought you did I knew it you were just playing you like it rough!
He pushed her bra up off her breasts and he leered at her and smirked as he noticed the outline of his bite mark. Then his mouth was fastening on her left nipple. She felt the bile rising in her throat and she moaned in disgust but Gentry took it as pleasure and he briefly pulled his mouth away as he said, Thats right its good, right? She was thankful that his body was beside hers on the bed rather than on her, but then she felt his hand begin to make its way between her legs again and she knew she couldnt handle that so she whispered, No let me and then she pushed the fingers of her right hand inside herself. Gentry had pulled back to watch for a second and he said, Damn, thats HOT Buchanan! She forced herself to give him a little smile, and then his mouth was back on her breast.
When she thought he was fully involved in his activities she slowly moved both her hands to his head for a second as if to hold him in place as if to encourage him she held her breath for a second and then with lightening speed she wrapped the chains that dangled between her hand cuffs tightly around his neck and began to pull hard on them. He made a strangled sound and jerked back and then she wrapped them around in another loop and pulled as hard as she could to tighten them around him. His eyes were popping out of his head, his tongue hanging out as he moved his hands to the chains around his neck to try to loosen them but they were now doubly looped around him. Natalie managed to kneel on the mattress gaining even better leverage and Gentry must have realized he was truly in trouble now because he began to hit out at her, landing blows on her arms and chest, her face and head. She tried to ignore the pain of these blows as much as possible, and they didnt have the power they normally would because he was clearly losing consciousness. It took a good five minutes and Natalie had to harden everything within her to keep going to not give in and settle for him being unconscious. Finally his eyes rolled back in his head he took his last breath, and his bladder and bowels lost control and she kept well back from his filth.
She knew he was dead. She sucked in a deep breath that sounded like a sob and then tried to think of Lady Macbeth again. This is what she had trained for when necessary to be a duplicitous bitch and lure the bad guy to his peril. Well, she guessed shed passed that test. She unwrapped the chains from around his neck and used her feet to shove him off the bed, then she went over to his pants and grabbed the gun off the holster he had left attached to them.
Chapter 73
Fifteen minutes later Natalie heard Hawkins returning and took several calming breaths as she prepared herself for what came next. She knew she had some bruising wherever Gentry had hit her, and that would work to her favor. The hardest thing she had to do was leave her underwear half-removed, but she felt it would add to the punch of the scene. Then she huddled against the wall, away from the fluids that had left Gentrys body, and found she didnt have to fake the tears that began to fall, the shudders that started up though she then tried to clamp down some control so she wouldnt totally lose it.
Hawkins came bounding in half-shouting with excitement, They are less than 10 minutes away get ready! He stopped dead when he saw the state Natalie was in and barked, Whats wrong, what happened?! and she sobbed, He.. he.. he tri.. tri...tried to rape me Hawkins looked furious and his eyes sought Gentry and then he saw him, lying on the floor towards the end of the mattress and he wailed and rushed to him, turning him over and seeing instantly that he was dead. He screamed and turned towards Natalie with a look of such rage on his face that she quaked violently. He stood up and was practically gasping for breath and he turned to face her and said, You GODDAMN BITCH! YOU KILLED MY BOY!!!! MY BOY I am going to carve you into bits you filthy whore!
Hawkins grabbed the massive bowie knife from the holster on his belt and came charging towards her, and two seconds later Natalie pulled the gun from behind her and as a look of shock came over Hawkins face she shot him twice once through the head and the other through the heart for good measure. He dropped like a stone onto the floor.
John, Mason, Chase and the rest of their team were full of adrenalin because they knew they were moments away from the final cabin, and theyd seen subtle signs that they were on the right track. They were about to finalize their best avenue for approach into this trap when the two gunshots rang out and then they were running in a dead heat for the cabin, but shouting for Natalies classmates to stay back.
Natalie had dropped the gun from her shaking hands and then she pulled her panties up and her bra back over her breasts and sat with her back against the wall, her knees drawn up against her chest, and then she wrapped her arms around her legs and rested her head on her knees. She was rocking back and forth a little bit, trying to keep calm. She felt so many things, yet wondered if she should feel badly that she didnt feel worse about having just taken two lives. But she knew beyond a doubt that if she hadnt killed them there was a good chance that the blood of others she cared about would have been spilled. One or more of them could have been killed.
John got through the cabin door first and his eyes were wild as they tried to focus on something to find Natalie and they locked on her on the bed. He took one step toward her and then his eyes fell on the bodies the bodies!! of Hawkins and Gentry. He stepped around them and over to the mattress and she launched herself into his arms and he wrapped his around her, but while she was shaking, she wasnt crying.
Chase and Mason crashed into the room moments later and saw John holding Natalie and then they noticed the bodies of Hawkins and Gentry and were stunned speechless. They just stood there. Finally Chase found his voice, What happened?
Natalie pulled her head off Johns shoulder and she felt the need to stand up and get off that filthy mattress. She started to move and John helped her up and she walked over to Mason and Chase as John kept an arm around her. They all took in her battered appearance though they realized that overall she seemed strong.
This was a trap. They never intended to let me go they were going to kill you all.once I knew you were close they had some early warning systems set up I knew I had to do something, so I did
Chase thought, Clearly! to himself, but he needed details. Natalie, what exactly happened though? How did you take them both out?
Natalie started to play the details over in her mind and in a bit of a delayed reaction she started to tremble a bit. John could feel that and said, Lets sit and he guided her to one of the chairs at the table. They each took a seat, John remaining next to Natalie, and waited for her to speak.
Over the past couple of days, Gentry was becoming increasingly well, lets just say he wasnt happy about his dads order not to touch me. Hawkins left us alone a good bit so he could check on your progress and all and Gentry started to strip down every time he left uh he started toto gratify himself while he stood in front of me this last time, as soon as Hawkins left Gentry stripped down and he was so pumped up John, he had talked about killing you himself as soon as you were here they were going to kill all of you, or try, and I couldnt let that happen
What happened, Natalie? John asked gently.
He he started to attack me again. He didnt want to wait he figured his father would claim first first dibs he decided not to wait. So I bided my time and when when he wasnt exactly paying attention to me I wrapped my chains around his neck and I choked him as she said this she held up her cuffed wrists and the heavy chains dangled and clanged together.
The three men looked at her in shock. That would have taken both physical strength and intestinal fortitude. They also realized thats where her bruises had come from Gentry must have struck out as he fought for his life.
Mason asked with surprise obvious in his voice, But what made him snap finally? Just the fact that we were so close?
Natalie was quiet for a second and then she looked at Chase and asked, Can this next part be off the record?
Chase looked at her for a long moment and nodded.
Natalie started to talk again but knew she would never tell anyone everything that had happened how she had practically seduced him. I goaded him. I basically called him a coward for listening to his father and keeping his hands off me when it was clear that wasnt what he wanted. That his father was probably not going to be as willing to share as hed said or would take his turn first and, uh, that that was actually fine with me because I preferred a man over a boy
John asked in shock, Why would you do that? He could have hurt you very badly! How far were you willing to go?!
It was a risk I had to take! And I would have gone as far as I had to so I could get him in position to choke him. Their goal was to kill you and take me away. That was always their intent. And NONE of that was something I was just going to let happen. So I timed it outthe rest can be on the record when Gentry was dead I grabbed his gun from the pants he had tossed across the room. I left...I left my clothing askew and huddled on the mattress pretending to be almost hysterical Hawkins noticed me first and asked what happened, and I told him Gentry had tried to rape me then he noticed him went to him and saw he was dead. He flew into a rage and grabbed his bowie knife and came flying toward me, and I pulled the gun from behind my back and shot him twice once in the head and then in the heart. And then you were here
They were truly stunned, and then they realized they shouldnt have been. John himself had reminded them all that Natalie wasnt a civilian. She had, in fact, done exactly what shed been trained to do. What remained to be seen was how well she could live with it once reality really set in.
They talked a bit longer and then they found the keys to Natalies shackles and while she located her clothes Chase used the satellite phone to get the word out that Natalie was safe but that the coroner would be needed here to get the bodies of Hawkins and Gentry. They stayed to hand over the scene thankfully the coroner drove in and got there relatively quickly and it was almost 5pm when they were finally ready to head out. The jeep Hawkins had driven was no where in sight so they were going to have to leave on foot and by this time Nero, Rich, Bradford and Turner had come into the cabin and were shocked, too, at the turn of events. Chase suggested they hike for an hour or so and then set up camp they had two large tents and then they could finish up in about 2 hours tomorrow, making their way to the edge of the woods where they could be picked up. They were all just too tired to try it all tonight with darkness upon them.
The others got a bit of a head start while John and Natalie held back for a moment. He pulled Natalie close to him and she wrapped her arms around him. Natalie my heart had stopped beating through all of this I dont know what I would have done if Id lost you
I felt the same, thats why I had to do something I couldnt sit there and wait for them to try to kill you
Natalie, what you did was incredible but I hate the thought of you putting yourself in danger for me
Didnt you do that for me?
He couldnt argue with that, so he gave her a bone tight hug and then they caught up with the others. She flat out amazed him, rocked him to his very core, and he loved her with a fierceness hed never felt about anything or anyone. And she was safe. Back in his arms, and it never even occurred to him to try to hide what he was now feeling for her.
Chapter 74
By 8pm, two tents were pitched, a fire lit, and they had eaten some rations. They hung around the fire for a bit and passed a bottle of whiskey that Chase had snuck into his pack and then everyone was well and truly beat. Nero, Bradford, Turner and Rich took one tent, and John, Natalie, Mason and Chase crawled into the other all in separate sleeping bags though John and Natalie were towards one side of the large tent and Mason and Chase towards the other.
One by one the men fell asleep as evidenced by their different snores. None of them were particularly loud, just noticeable. Natalie couldnt sleep. She was feeling surges of energy run through her remaining adrenalin a bit of euphoria that she had emerged the victor in a life and death struggle awareness of John so close and yet so far she wanted to jump him. She realized she was totally, completely horny. She felt a bit embarrassed - was this normal? But then she didnt care. She peeked over towards Mason and Chase and saw they were still sleeping and in a decisive and bold move she left her own sleeping bag unzipped Johns and crawled in with him.
Johns eyes shot open and then he felt Natalies mouth close over his aggressively, her body on top of his. Of course he returned the kiss, his hands moving into her hair to deepen it, but he stiffened when he felt her hand trail down to begin undoing his pants.
He grabbed her hand and whispered, Natalie! We cant much as I want to we cant not here with them right over there
Theyre asleepwe can be quiet
He snorted a bit at that and she hissed, We can we can just kiss each other while we do it it wont take long please please please Johnplease
Her hands began to try to open his pants again and he grabbed them again and said, Natalie, shit youre killing me but we cant
Why?
Because!
But dont you want me? You feel like you do she said as she groped his manhood. God I want you John
Of course I do but were not alone
Natalie stretched her entire body along him and planted her open mouth on his as she ground her hips against his erection, capturing most of the noise he made.
Meanwhile, across the tent Mason and Chase were now both very much awake and trying to stifle their laughter. When they each realized the other was awake and laughing too that just made it harder. But Natalie and John didnt notice because she was intent on having him and he was trying to fight her off.
Finally John could take no more there was only so much control he had, and it was virtually nil with regard to Natalie and way less than that once she had her mouth and body on him. He rolled her underneath him as quietly as possible and very adeptly opened her pants and yanked them and her underwear totally off her body so they were in a ball at the end of his bag. Her hands joined his in opening his pants and they shoved them down to his ankles using a combination of hands and her feet and just seconds after he roughly claimed her mouth he drove into her until he was buried inside her. Her gasp and moan vibrated down his throat. He pushed her arms over her head, his hands on hers as their fingers intertwined, gripping hard, and then his mouth was plundering hers as their hips rutted against each other, meeting each other forcefully. It took only 8-10 deep, sharp thrusts and then they were climaxing together, pouring sounds into each others mouths as they remained fused together. Finally their mouths parted and they panted as quietly as possible into the crooks of each others necks as John collapsed on top of her and their arms and hands remained intertwined above their heads.
A moment later, in the dark, Mason said with a chuckle, Well thank God. Shit McBain, if youd denied the poor girl any longer I was about to volunteer for a mission of mercy!
Chase snickered beside Mason as Natalie gasped, Oh my GOD! and John just groaned.
Then Chase said, Aw, dont worry Buchanan we all understand ask any guy after a big operation like that a major takedown or bust making it out alive we all are total horn-dogs I just had no idea that you gals had the same reaction. See, this is exactly why it IS good to have women in the program we all get to learn things about each other see were not so different By this time Chase was having a hard time containing his laughter, Mason had long ago lost that battle and even John was chuckling.
The word mortification was no where near close enough to describing how Natalie felt at that moment, yet shed be a total liar if she said she was now sorry she had jumped John. She squeaked out, Sorry if I disturbed your sleep and the three men laughed some more. Making this all the more awkward was the fact that John was still inside her and she was highly aware of that, even if their bodies were shielded from view by the sleeping bag and cover of darkness. John finally moved off her and turned her on her side so he could scoot in behind her, holding her close. No sense in her going back to her bag at this point.
Eventually Chase and Mason were asleep again but John and Natalie were not so lucky. They were hyper aware of each other that fast coupling had only whet their appetites and Johns hardness was prominent against Natalies backside. She ground back against him and then she felt him lift her right leg and she knew what was coming. She turned her head to bite down on his left arm, which was around her, and then he was entering her from behind, and biting down on her neck to silence his own moan. Very slowly, deliberately, deliciously he made love to her, finishing her off when he moved his hand between her legs and massaged her near where he was moving in and out of her. When she clamped on him her walls and her mouth her teeth that dragged him over the edge. When they had calmed a little they turned to face each other and enjoyed long minutes of kissing there was something so deeply satisfying about making out even after having possessed each other much more intimately. Finally, after whispering of their love for each other, they fell asleep wrapped around each other.
Chapter 75
Not surprisingly in the middle of the night Natalies dreams turned violent they held horrifying scraps of memory and dream-state extrapolation, but she saw, heard and felt Gentry, Hawkins saw Gentrys eyes bulging Hawkins coming at her with his knife and in her dream she felt his knife plunge into her chest and then she bolted upright into a sitting position, screaming in terror. The men in her tent, and the one next door, where jolted out of their own sleep and then realized what was going on. By then John had grabbed her close and was rocking her saying, Wake up shhh its just a dream just a dream Natalie was relieved to be awake to realize she had only been dreaming but she was shaking almost violently. She refused to cry, though. She just wouldnt. They didnt deserve her tears they had targeted her and hurt her planned to do even worse to her than they had. Planned to kill the man she loved her friends.
No one was surprised by this turn of events theyd expected it. Chase got out of his bag and reached for his sack, pulling out the whiskey again. He opened it and handed it to John with a nod and then John moved it to Natalies mouth and held her head as she tipped it back to let some of the liquid pour down her throat, warming her. Then she snuggled back against John, starting to calm.
Mason watched this and was glad he had checked his initial instinct when hed heard her cry out, which was to go to her and comfort her he laughed privately at how developed his protective streak of her had become. Hed probably always have it to some extent.
Rich, Nero, Bradford and Turner had come into the tent to see what was going on. Without letting any reactions play across their features they each took note of a number of things. Natalie was in Johns sleeping bag with him, and peaking out of the bottom of the unzipped bag were what appeared to be her jeans which made sense given the flash of bare leg they could see where the sleeping bag was unzipped. They were clinging to each other with a familiarity and a clear emotional attachment that had obviously not just sprung up. And, neither Mason nor Chase seemed to be reacting to any of this themselves. None of them were entirely surprised since theyd all noted there seemed to be SOMETHING developing between the two at minimum an obvious attraction. But they were surprised by the depth it seemed to have when and where had that happened? They finally all settled on the same conclusion nothing to see here and they wished Natalie well and turned back to their own tent, not saying a word to each other about what theyd seen.
Everyone fell back asleep for several more hours. John and Natalie were the first to awake and after sharing a gentle good morning kiss realized theyd better put their pants back on before they had to do so in front of Chase and Mason in the full light of day. Natalie still felt a lingering embarrassment at having been caught in the act, but there was nothing to be done about it now.
They got up to rekindle the fire and make coffee, enjoying the bracing air. It actually would be a nice day for a hike, especially because they could all take their time it wasnt a race against the clock.
The smell of coffee roused the rest of the gang and soon everyone was stretching and savoring that first hot sip. Natalie could feel everyones glances falling on her intermittently to see how she was holding up, and she also knew her bruises had probably gotten a bit worse. Shed gotten so accustomed to having some sort of injuries on her body or face that it didnt even faze her any more.
About an hour later they broke camp and hiked towards the rendezvous point a couple of vehicles would be waiting to take them back to Quantico. Chase had been informed that news was breaking that two people had been killed in a stand-off involving the FBI, but a tight lid was being kept on any other details they were going to claim national security as the reason why there would be no additional information forthcoming. Natalie had also made it clear that she had no intention of informing her family, at least not at this point. Maybe when she was totally done with the program
At one point along the way Natalie ended up walking with Mason, a bit out of earshot from everyone else, and she couldnt help feeling like she owed him some sort of apology.
Mason about last night
He looked at her with a smirk and she blushed. Yeah?
Well, I feel badly like I owe you an apology or somethingYouve been so great about John and me, and then I went and rubbed your face in it I didnt mean that I didnt think
Buchanan, I doubt you were thinking about anything and I understand I know how you get he said with a chuckle that turned into a laugh when he saw how red she got as she remembered how she had often lost control with him
Mason I
Natalie, honestly, its fine. I have nothing but fond memories, and a true affection for you. And, if it makes you feel any better well, Ive started to see someone that I actually find myself liking quite a lot
Really? Do tell!
Well, Im taking a page out of McBains book and seeing someone who reports to me so dont tell on me! Shes a great attorney named Angela Mauro. She reminds me a lot of you - shes smart and a good person. Shes a very capable professional whos not on the prowl for a meal-ticket so well see how it goes
Im so glad maybe some day, when this program is over if it isnt too weird we could all go out to dinner or something
You know, that could probably work
They finally made it back to Quantico by around noon. Chase had sent word through the various agents/instructors whod led the other candidates in the search for Natalie to have them all meet at The Pub private room again that night at 8pm. Mason was invited as well, and he accepted the invitation then beat a hasty retreat to his place to get cleaned up, check in with his office sleep a bit
John and Natalie returned to their apartment this time with no agents as bodyguards. As soon as they got into the living room John pulled Natalie close and she sighed deeply she loved his hugs. He then led them to the couch where they sat, half facing each other, his arm along the back of the couch behind her.
So how are you? How are you really?
Is it strange for me to be able to say that Im doing pretty OK?
No not strange
It is a very sobering experience to kill someone. I hope I can live the rest of my life without ever having to do something like that again. But, even before I pushed to get into this program I was in law enforcement. It was always a possibility that Id have to take a life at some point. And those two to me they werent human. They were animals. And, John, they were going to KILL you! Her voice broke on those last words and tears welled in her eyes.
John cupped her face in his hands and said softly, the emotion choking his own voice, Thank you for saving my life you risked so much
I love you, John I had to
I love you, too, Natalie.
They kissed softly and then Natalie asked, Now that Hawkins and Gentry are no longer a threat am I going to have to move back to the dorm? She sounded so sad when she asked that question.
Im not sure, Natalie. Im certainly not going to ask the question, he laughed when he said this. Im sure Chase will let us know soon enough but we have right now lets not waste it
Over the course of the next 6-7 hours, between naps and a quick bite of lunch, John and Natalie made love on the couch, in the tub, in bed and in the shower as they got ready to meet everyone else at the pub. They had a voracious hunger for each other that only seemed to increase every time they fed it. Some of it was fueled by the angst of what they had been through, and the deep feelings they now had, but they had also completely mastered the art of making love to each other bringing each other pleasure and they just let themselves inhabit that magic place as much as they could, knowing a roadblock might be around the corner.
John had to remind himself not to hold Natalies hand or put his arm around her as they walked into the pub. He really was forgetting that they were supposed to have a formal line, some distance between them.
When Natalie walked in her classmates and everyone else in The Pub began applauding. Word had gotten around campus and while not everyone knew every detail, they knew enough and wanted to get a look at this tiny but formidable warrior. Natalie waved shyly, accepted hugs from her friends, and then they all headed into the private room where Mason and Chase were waiting for them all.
Chase had arranged for quite a spread and Italian buffet, plenty of drinks and let everyone eat, mill about, enjoy their time, celebrate their victory Natalie sat with Turner, Bradford, Nero and Rich, while John sat with some of the other candidates so he could thank them for their own efforts. Mason hung with Chase. About an hour into the celebration Chase finally asked for their attention.
All right everyone Im just going to take a moment of your time and then let you get back to the fun I just wanted to tell you how proud I am of all of you. You all logged some long hours trudging through rough terrain in the search to find your comrade. It is clear your training kicked in and I know we are all so thankful for the successful result of this effort. Which brings me directly to candidate Buchanan. What I am about to say MUST stay in this room, between this close-knit group. Under duress in a situation fraught with emotion where she was clearly in danger at the hands of two men, one of whom was a trained and deadly CIA operative she managed to lean against her training to bide her time and plan and then to flawlessly execute that plan so that she single-handedly took out both of her enemies. In doing so she spared the rest of us from injury and likely saved at least some of our lives. Buchanan, you were truly a marvel and know that your peers here know that, even if it has to be swept under the rug
Natalie broke in for a second, saying I just want to thank all of you for everything. Not just for the past few days, but ever since ever since Gentry first attacked me, and I had to get special protection and you all went the extra mile to keep an eye out for meyou have made me feel like a total part of your team, and Ill never be able to tell you how grateful I am
Chase smiled at Natalie and then continued, I had a chat with the Director and we have come to a decision we think youll like. We agreed that you had gained some great experience from these past days in the field, and that that should count for something. So we decided you deserved some impromptu liberty.
A cheer went up.
For those whove lost track of time, its Friday evening. Starting well, now you are free until Tuesday at noon.
In testament to how close the group had gotten, they all remained for the balance of the evening, though a few pulled out cell phones to begin making plans. Natalie spent some more time talking with her friends and made a point to catch up with Nick because she knew hed never quite gotten over the fact that hed let Gentry manipulate the situation so that he left her in his clutches. He was so thrilled she had taken him down.
Eventually Natalie ended up talking with Mason again and he was aware that some of her classmates were giving them a look. Dont look now, but I think some of your mates are still trying to figure out if theres something going on with us though at least a handful no thats absolutely not the case since they caught you half-naked in McBains sleeping bag
Natalie punched him in his massive bicep and said, Do you take endless delight in embarrassing me?
Well, it is fun. And our deal from the beginning has always been to be open and honest no embarrassmentsay anything do anything though I guess we have had to pull back on the do anything thing
You are evilbut you do make me laugh, she said as she did just that.
Hopefully not at my shortcomings
Natalie snorted and said, hardly! to which he raised an eyebrow and then she had to just giggle at him.
You are in such a good and ribald mood whats gotten into you.. OH! Wait a minute you didnt happen to make a pit stop on your way here maybe pay a visit to the lovely Angela?
Mason laughed and said, Guilty as charged!
At that moment John walked up and he and Mason smirked a bit at each other when John almost slipped and put his arms around Natalie, catching himself at the last moment. Which was a good thing because more eyes were on this trio than anywhere else in the room. John inquired, Whats so amusing?
Natalie replied, Well, Mason here was telling me about a special new person in his life whom he just happened to spend some quality time with this afternoon
Oh, I see said John with a smile and he was genuinely glad for Mason because he seemed happy. Some quality time huh?
Mason laughed and winked and said, Well, lets just say we may have spent our time the same way as you two this afternoon and on that note, I am going to head out because I promised Angela Id drop in on my way home
John and Natalie laughed and then Mason shook Johns hand, gave Natalie a tight hug good-bye and took his leave.
John and Natalie spent a bit more time talking with Chase as the rest of the class filtered out, saying their good-byes as they went off to plan for this unexpected liberty. Chase finally wished John and Natalie well and gave her a quick hug while telling her how proud he was of her and then John and Natalie were left to walk back to their apartment, totally relieved Chase had said nothing about their living arrangements.
They were surprised to see it was almost midnight when they got into the apartment. It had certainly been an action-packed day, and now they knew they had 3 days of freedom ahead of them.
So, Buchanan how do you want to spend your liberty?
Well I really liked how I spent the last one with the obvious exception of the police bursting in
John laughed and said, Well, Im glad and selfish bastard that I am I was hoping youd want to spend it with me, but I was going to be mature about it if you decided you wanted to see your family
No Ill be seeing them soon enough at Christmas and speaking of do you know what youre doing?
Well, my brother sent me an email seeing if I wanted to come to Llanview hes talked my mom into heading there since shell be on a break from her singing tour....
Really? Well, wow, this could be even better see, I was thinking and you can turn me down flat if you think itd be too much but well, maybe you and Michael and now your mother would want to have Christmas dinner with me with my family
John was touched and a bit overwhelmed. You guys have quite the crowd, huh?
Yes, I wont lieit can be a bit overwhelming but Id love for them to meet you and vice versa but I dont want to pressure you
John took both of Natalies hands in his, I dont feel pressured, Natalie. And Id love to meet your family get to know them. I just hope they dont want to shoot me coming out of left field and being your instructor and all
Well, double check with Michael and your mother if theyd rather have a quiet dinner then maybe you guys could come for dessert Id just miss you if I didnt get to see you
Thats not going to happen were going to be together then, and hopefully in a few seconds in our bed He claimed her lips at that and then picked her up to carry her to the bedroom. He put her down and they began undressing each other and he said, Tomorrow we can head back home to the house
Great and she lost all other train of thought as he led her to bed.
The next morning they headed to the house and by mid-morning were making some loose plans for the weekend. John was smiling practically all the time and Natalie said, Whats gotten into you, McBain youre usually a bit more serious than this
Well, lets see, the woman I love is here with me, totally safe the lunatics that were hunting her down are no longer a threat thanks to her Rambo skills and we have three days to spend together not having to hide out
She smiled back and said, Well, it doesnt get more perfect, does it?
He looked at her intently and smiled a different sort of smile and then said, Youre going to think Ive lost my mind, but I just thought of something so out of the blue that I think we should do
What?
He walked up to her and whispered in her ear and saw a huge smile her biggest ever take over her face. She grabbed his hand and said, Lets go!
Chapter 77
Sunday morning, the sunlight was streaming in the windows and Natalie woke up to the warmth of it on her face and the feeling of Johns arms around her. She smiled and then felt the need to stretch and as she did so she became aware of Johns eyes on her.
You know I love to watch you do that
She smiled at him and lay back down on the bed so she could face him. They looked at each other for a moment and then Johns hand moved under her hair to the back of her head so he could draw her mouth to his. He plied her mouth with a languid, soul-stirring, toe-curling kiss and then he pulled back and said, Good morning, Mrs. McBain
Natalie literally felt her stomach flip when he said that and she smiled at him as a few tears gathered in her eyes I love how that sounds, you have no idea
Oh, I think I do in fact, Im sure of it
They kissed some more and then broke apart again so they could smile at each other they couldnt seem to stop.
Thank you for marrying me, Natalie.
Well, thank you for asking
So, heres the thing we can stay here in Vegas a bit longeror we can head to the airport and catch the next flight back and we can spend at least a day and a night in our own home our own bedbefore we have to go back to Quantico
Well, how about we stay here just a little bit longer so I can make love one more time to my husband and then we can go home
Deal Buch- uh oh, I guess I cant call you that any more
Darn
They began to kiss each other passionately, the heat between them growing, and John felt an overwhelming desire to be inside his wife. He whispered softly in her ear, I dont think I can wait, Natalie
She whispered hotly against his mouth, Then dont
As their mouths melded again he moved between her legs, which she had opened wide for him, and then he sank into her waiting heat. Soon they were in perfect rhythm, her hands on his ass to guide him, his hands under hers to tilt her to the perfect angle, and they drew back from their devastating kiss so they could look at each other. There was such intensity in their eyes, such emotion, but neither felt any need for artifice for a shieldthey were safe with each other completely bonded Their gasps and moans grew louder, their eyes took on a richer hue, the cloud of passion, and then the heated proof of their passion pooled together where their bodies met, where the friction and possession had led them to a heart-stopping simultaneous release.
John held Natalie for a long while as their breathing returned to normal. Then he whispered softly, I didnt think it was possible for that to get any better but somehow knowing youre my wife Im your husband we totally belong to each other
Im so happy John and so in love with you
Then let me take you home I want to be there with you
With the time difference and travel time it was pretty late when they pulled in the driveway. They sat for a second and looked at each other, their eyes saying everything. John picked up Natalies hand and rubbed his thumb over the simple platinum band that was now on her finger and he said, Tomorrow were going to go out and buy a proper ring for you
John, this ones perfect
Itll always have sentimental value, but I want to take you shopping for something that will carry you through the years now, lets go inside.
Natalie had barely put her feet on the ground when they were off it again because John had scooped her up to carry her. He put her down just inside the door and then said, Welcome home, Mrs. McBain
Natalie collapsed into his arms and said, Home I love home then she pulled back and looked at him, asking, Do you want to take a bath with me?
Lead the way lead the way
In short order the bath was filled with fragrant bubbles and water, candles lit, and John began to undress Natalie. She was so turned on when she felt him take charge and pull her clothes from her body when he opened her bra and slide it off her arms and his hand and mouth moved onto her breasts... and she felt her knees grow weak at the decisive way he removed the final scrap of silk that was already growing moist by the time he got thereShed had her eyes closed as he helped support her and she sighed out a shaky John when she was finally naked. He had watched her feelings of arousal play over her face could feel her body tremble a bit and her breath hitch in her throat He pulled her to him to kiss her deeply and she moaned when her sensitive nipples met the wool of his sweater she finally pulled away and said, You have too many clothes on
Together they removed his clothes and then stood admiring each other as always the sight of each others naked bodies heated their blood. Natalie wound her arms around Johns neck while his banded around her back and they kissed deeply for a few moments, until Natalie pressed her stomach against his erection and they broke apart, their eyes now hazed over. He picked her up and stepped into the tub and sat down with his back against the end of it. He positioned her so she was sitting in the V of his legs, her back against his chest, and she leaned against him as his arms encircled her. They both let out sighs that were full of contentment and relief.
I cant believe were here, John this all happened so fast so unexpected but it I just knew, for me it was so right
I know maybe when everything around you is knocking you for a loop, you dont have time to put up defenses you see things feel things clearly. Im just so glad you didnt listen to me when I tried to say this might all have been contextual
Yeah, what was THAT about? she laughed.
Honestly, I was trying to protect myself. I already knew that I had real and significant feelings for you but I found it hard to believe that you could feel that way for me, so I figured
Well, I did, even then. And I thought you might for me, too.
What was your first clue? he smiled.
They all just built up over time little things where it felt like we bonded. I felt so close to you that day in your office, when you asked me about when when Id been raped, and then you told me about Caitlin but, I guess I started to realize there was something bigger the first weekend you brought me here especially that kiss we shared just before we left here. My heart was so full I thought it would burst, and I felt something FROM you, too, not just for you
That was when I let myself know you were in my heart that weekend. You had fallen asleep on the couch in my den and as I watched you I felt so much, Natalie. It floored me scared me but I couldnt kid myself it was real. Still, even after the foxhole, I was going to try to live up to our deal and then I saw you walk into Rodis
And it was Kermit! The both giggled at that
Natalie said, That foxhole thing wow. That blew me away it was HOT she was laughing as she said it and then continued, It was like wed lost our damn minds
Hadnt we? I know I had that whole week leading up to it, when we were forced to be apart and then that fight we had in front of everyone
Yeah, that raised a few eyebrows
So you liked the foxhole, huh?
Yeah I did! John, Ive loved it all sometimes you, well you TAKE me with such force and I crave it and then others when I finally started to let you you are so gentle yet still so well it all ends up with me a quivering mess
I love to turn you into a quivering mess you do a number on me, too, you know
Well, what kind of number are you interested in tonight?
Do I have to pick just one? John said as he kissed the nape of her neck and she trembled at that touch,
Uh, no not at all, let me re-phrase what do you want to start with?
In response John moved his right hand to her left jaw and tilted her head so he could kiss her deeply, and as their tongues mated his left hand made its way through the water, between her legs, two fingers pushed inside her moist heat and she let out a deep moan. As John ground his fingers inside Natalie she ground her ass back against his hardness, and he knew that was going to do him in more quickly than he wanted. He removed his hand and his mouth from her and then moved her so she was sitting on the edge of the tub, at the other end. He knelt between her legs and she closed her eyes and leaned her head back against the wall in anticipation she didnt have to wait long. His mouth moved to her center, his tongue massaging between her folds, lathing her clit causing her hips to buck and a cry to escape her and then plunging deep inside her tight passage. He held her hips tightly in place as he continued the exquisite movement of his mouth over her.
Natalie felt like there wasnt a bone left in her body and she couldnt help the moans and whimpers that endlessly poured from her. He was creating such an ache between her legs she thought shed die of it, and when he suddenly moved his mouth to her clit, gently nibbling on it while he plunged two fingers inside, she came with such a sudden force that she screamed John! as her whole body writhed at the sensation.
John savored the feeling of Natalie convulsing around his fingers for a moment and then he plucked her off the side of the tub and slid her down onto his straining manhood, holding his breath at the sensations of her tight walls clutching at the entire engorged length of him as their bodies joined together. She was continuing to spasm around him, her breath coming in pants, and he moved his hands to her ass to guide her movements, to make her ride him with purpose. Her body instinctively obeyed his hands even though each movement of her hips caused her almost painful torture because of her continued climax but soon she felt it building up again as her body took him into its depths over and over, as he bucked his own hips to deepen his claim on her.
John was at his end and he brought her moaning mouth to his and the passionate dueling of their tongues caused the final explosion. Natalie felt the warm gush of his release spread through her body and her already quivering muscles contracted almost violently at this suffusion and they clung to each other as their bodies writhed from the overwhelming sensations. John pulled Natalies mouth off his and he took her face in both of his hands, I love you Natalie God I love you, he rasped.
I love you too Then they were kissing again until every aftershock had calmed.
The water suddenly felt very cool against their over-heated skin. They got out of the tub, their legs a bit rubbery, and dried each other off. Then they headed into their bed and held each other closely, falling into what they knew would just amount to a nap this night was far from over
Chapter 78
Natalie and John slept in luxuriously late until about 10 am, which was highly unusual. But they had had a crazy couple of days flying to and from Las Vegas, not to mention getting married. Then, of course, they hadnt slept much when they were in bed. But finally they had crashed around 3am, and had been so warm and cozy together. It was actually the phone ringing that woke them up, and John reached for it.
Hello he rasped sleepily.
John its Chase.
Oh, hi Chase, whats up?
I was wondering if I could come by and talk to you and Natalie Ill pick up sandwiches
John had a feeling he knew what was coming but he was as friendly as possible when he said, Sure and well take you up on the sandwich offer what, about noon?
Great see you soon.
What did he want?
Well, he knew you were here no surprise. He wants to talk to both of us. Im assuming its about our living arrangements our need to keep things toned down even though more than a few people have figured things out
Its to be expected and I think we are right in our decision not to let anyone know were married until after the program is over itll be hard, though. I guess Id better take this off now you too she said as she pointed to their wedding rings.
John took her hand and kissed her ring, saying, Im still taking you out later to buy you another one we can keep them here in the safe, but well know
She smiled and said, Well, now Im going to say something straight out of a chick flick but I feel married to you in my heart rings are nice, but I dont need them. The hardest thing will be not being able to do this we are going to have to sneak off again sometimes. At least I wont have a security detail with me to evade
They quickly got showered and dressed, and waited for Chase and Natalie couldnt help feel a bit nervous like she was being sent to the principals office or something. Finally the doorbell rang and John went to get it while she made sure the table was set OK.
Chase came in and gave her a genuine smile and a hug, which surprised her but she returned sincerely as well. He had brought a huge bag of sandwiches a number of selections and then they were sitting and eating. Chase updated them on the fall-out from the Hawkins situation. The CIA had passed along an apology, while also, of course, disavowing all knowledge of everything but Chase got the feeling they were glad to be rid of the problem. They had also made a cagey inquiry as to whether Natalie would have any interest in joining them, and she shook her head emphatically.
Finally, he was ready to address the proverbial elephant in the room. OK guys, Im going to speak directly and you can feel free to do the same. He smirked when he said, I guess theres no use in anyone trying to deny theres something going on between the two of you John and Natalie smiled as well. Off the record Im really pleased for you two on the record instructors and students arent supposed to get involved. Now, Natalie, your performance has been so top-notch that we shouldnt run into anybody trying to say youve gotten special treatment beyond what was critical because of safety concerns. Plus, all your classmates have the utmost respect for you. But, optics count. So, Natalie, tomorrow you have to move back into the dorm, and John, youll return to your previous apartment. Beyond that use your judgment and your self-control He smiled again as he said this and they joined along.
Chase stayed a bit longer to talk they actually all enjoyed each others company and then he was gone.
OK Mrs. McBain lets go ring shopping
John and Natalie headed to a small, upscale jewelry store about thirty minutes away. John had gotten to know Sam on one of his first cases and theyd stayed in touch. He was surprised clearly pleasantly so when he saw John walk in, and totally thrilled when he learned of the reason.
Oh, Mrs. McBain such a pleasure to meet you and we will find the perfect ring for you!
Please, call me Natalie
Ah, Natalie you are a beautiful woman, I am so happy for you both
Sam studied Natalie carefully for a bit, and asked her about herself, what sorts of clothes she liked to wear, hobbies, etc. He was a firm believer that different rings went with different personalities. He also asked her if she wanted to have two rings a solitaire and a band or just a single ring that packed enough punch (shed laughed when he said that). She realized she only wanted one.
Finally they settled on something she thought was truly gorgeous, but only after lots of strong-arming by John since she kept gravitating towards much less significant and cheaper rings. He had taken her aside and said, Natalie I promise you that you are not going to break the bank on me this is a big deal to me. I never thought Id fall in love again and Ive never felt this way about anyone before. This YOU are it for me. I want to give you something that befits that
She felt her eyes well up with tears as he said that, and he brushed them away as he gave her a gentle kiss.
Natalies ring was perfect for her. It was a three-diamond ring princess cut with a two-carat stone in the center and one-carat stones on either side. It was set in platinum which went perfectly with the simple platinum band that they had picked up in Las Vegas. John had a matching one which he had put back on immediately after Chase had left.
They went and had coffee, popped into a small dress shop so Natalie could get something for the evening they were going back to Neros for dinner and then headed home. Natalie napped on the couch in the den while John caught up on some work this had become a favorite practice of theirs and he found himself looking up at her more than at his computer screen. He didnt know how he was going to hide his feelings for her from anyone, and didnt much care.
A bit later they went upstairs to get dressed. This time John wore black trousers, a black sport coat and a crisp white shirt no tie. Natalie was dressed in black as well, in a gorgeous cashmere dress that was like an oversized v-neck cardigan that fell just above her knee. Sheer black stockings encased her legs, and sleek black pumps and diamond stud earrings completed the look. She was about to grab her pashmina to leave when John stopped her.
I have something that I think will be the perfect finishing touch then he pulled out a jewelry box from behind his back.
John, what is this? You already bought me the most amazing and important piece of jewelry today
Well, this is a wedding gift Sam and I managed to pull this off when you ran to the restroom
She opened the box and gasped. Inside was a gorgeous diamond necklace it was a circle of diamonds, an infinity necklace, set in platinum and hanging on a delicate platinum chain.
Oh, its beautiful honestly beautiful
John took it and put it on her, and kissed the nape of her neck over the clasp. Ready?
One second, she said. Then she took his face in both of her hands and stood on tip-toe to give him the most tender kiss she could. She pulled back and looked at him, saying, I love you John McBain.
He caressed her cheek and said, Right back at you. Then they left for Neros.
Chapter 79
The Neros were happy to see John and Natalie again, and Gina Neros eagle eye noticed Natalies gorgeous ring, and when she saw Johns band she practically squealed with delight. You were MARRIED since you were last here? John and Natalie were quiet for a second and then they just smiled and nodded and were swooped into hugs by both Gina and her husband Lou.
They were once again led to the secluded table they had enjoyed so much before. Then Gina said, Im going to send my nephew over with a bottle of champagne for you to celebrate we are so happy for you!
John and Natalie settled in beside each other and he put his arm along the back of the banquette and pulled her into a kiss, which was interrupted by the clattering, crashing sound of glasses, a bottle and tray falling to the floor.
They broke apart and turned to see an absolutely flabbergasted Sal Nero standing there, and Natalie felt her blood run cold. How could she they not have made the connection?
Gina and Lou had run over to see what was going on and Gina said, Sal, what happened, did you trip?
Uh, yeah Ill go get a fresh set, so sorry he ran off presumably to do that, and Gina and Lou apologized, cleaned up and left them alone.
Natalie leaned her elbows on the table and her face in her hands and groaned, saying, What are we going to do? John put his hand on her shoulder and said, Well have to talk to him I cant believe I never even thought there could be a connection its not an uncommon name, and Ive never ever seen him here before
Sal Nero came back over and stood quietly for a moment, then John gestured for him to take a seat. No one said anything for a moment and then John said, I would imagine youre as surprised about seeing us together as we are seeing you Ive never seen you here before
Well, Lou and my father are brothers and I hadnt seen them in a while, and when the unexpected liberty came up, well it seemed like a good opportunity especially since they were so close by and I was craving some good food
Silence again.
Natalie figured she should say something he was a friend of hers at this point. Sal I know that you and Rich, Bradford and Turner noticed that John and I had become close when you when I had that bad dream and you all came into our tent well, we have we are close. It wasnt anything planned just sort of happened. And we did spur of the moment we did go off and get married this weekend, but our intention was to keep it a secret until after the program ended to keep us a secret Ill live back in the dorm like normal keep our distance
John broke in, Well understand if you dont feel you can keep this quiet. We wont put you on the spot. Clearly we have broken a lot of rules by starting a relationship, let alone getting married and, well, I guess Ive put Natalie in the most jeopardy because people can say she passed due to favoritism or something or try to claim that
Nero looked from one to the other and then he smiled a genuine smile at them. Look, this is a total surprise. Yeah, we noticed that you two had something going on when we saw you in the tent and truth be told, most of the class and instructors could see that you guys were clicking. But I have to say, you did a great job in hiding just how much because it seemed like you hadnt acted on it But to be honest, Im really happy for you you kick ass Buchanan and no one can say you didnt earn your way through everything you had to go through more than any of us. And, Agent McBain, I dont know you as well, but you have always been fair and if Natalie thinks youre a good guy I will have no trouble keeping youre secret from everyone.
John and Natalie expelled a breath and thanked him. Then Nero said with a smirk and a twinkle in his eye, No problem and maybe me knowing could be of help I can provide some cover for you if you need to try to get together or something claim to go on a long run with Buchanan here or something because if I were a newlywed Id fuckin hate to have my wife across campus in a dorm and never get to see her alone and on that note, Im going to open this champagne and take my leave tomorrow is back to reality.
Nero popped and poured the champagne, then he shook Johns hand and gave Natalie a quick peck on the cheek. They laughed when he left mostly with relief.
I believe him, John. Hell keep our secret.
I believe him, too. We really dodged a bullet with this one. But at the end of the day, I figure we can handle it, whatever fall-out there is if anyone else finds out.
They managed to enjoy themselves and let the Neros take a commemorative photo of them which, of course, would be handled very discreetly. They even enjoyed a few dances before they realized that what they really wanted to be was home alone. This was their last night tomorrow morning they had to head back to Quantico.
While Natalie poured some cabernet for them, John took off his jacket and lit the fire, and they let that provide the only light in the room. He went to a hall closet and pulled out a large red and black plaid wool blanket and spread it in front of the fire, then grabbed some of the large floor pillows to further soften their nest. Then they stretched out together in front of the fire, close together, leaning against the cushions and sipping their wine.
I wish we had more time here, John, before we had to go back
Me too but, we will still see each other, and Im determined that we will find some opportunities to, well REALLY be together he said this with a smile which she returned.
They put their wine glasses down and held each other close, watching the flickering flames of the fire and the dancing shadows they created on the walls. Natalie let out a deep sigh and John asked, Youre not falling asleep on me, are you?
No Im just so relaxed and happy and relaxed there has been so much craziness, and, well, peace is underrated. Who the hell needs excitement?
John caressed the back of her neck and said in a low voice, Well, some types of excitement are more enticing than others
She felt her breath catch and a twinge between her legs when he said that and she whispered, Oh, what types are you talking about?
Well, for example, the way it feels when I am as hard and thick as Ive ever been, and you open yourself to me and even after all the times Ive been so welcomed, it feels like its brand new because no matter how wet Ive made you until that point, no matter how accustomed youre bodys become to mine, I can still feel it change shape to make room for me the way your body hugs mine every time thats exciting, Natalie
Natalie had closed her eyes when he was talking because his voice was like the most seductive caress. When he finished speaking she opened them and met his gaze and he was blown away by the desire he saw in hers. He reached for her and their arms wrapped around each other her body ended up lying on top of his and then they were kissing almost in slow motion, as if to make sure that their mouths bonded as deeply as possible, and that their tongues explored every bit of each other. Natalie felt her heart pounding in reaction to his kiss and she was glad she was already lying down because surely she would have fallen had she been standing.
John gently pushed Natalie so she was lying on her back and her eyes never left his face. He moved his hands to the buttons on her sweater dress and undid them one by one it reminded him of a few weeks before when, in this very room, he had similarly opened her sweater the night they had first admitted their love for each other He pulled the sides of the dress apart and his eyes roamed over her gorgeous body and the tiny scraps of lace that only partially obscured her from view. Her bra was all white lace, as were her tiny panties. What really held his attention were her stockings and the lacy garter-tops of them that clung gently to her thighs. He placed a warm hand on her taut stomach, flashing for a second on what it would be like if his baby were in there, and he couldnt help the small smile that played on his lips at that thought. Continuing with his gentle ways, he briefly shifted her so he could fully remove her dress and then he looked at her again, and felt his own desire spike as he saw her stretched out on the blanket, the fire causing her skin and eyes to glow, the tiny scraps of lace
Natalie was quiet under his scrutiny but could feel her own desire build at the heat with which he looked at her. Still, neither of them made a noise the only sound was the snapping and popping of the fire and their breathing which was becoming heavier. John then carefully removed her bra and panties, but left her stockings where they were, finding their solitary presence on her otherwise naked body a sight to behold. Natalie felt the slight scratchiness of the wool blanket under her naked body the mixture of cool air and heat from the fire and her sensitized body moved a bit at these different yet equally arousing sensations. As she did, her legs bent a bit opened a bit and John felt the jolt between his own legs.
Natalie was about to move to undress him to protest his still-clothed state but as if reading her mind John began to remove his clothes, taking his time because he found Natalies gaze on him to be incredibly arousing as well. Finally he was kneeling naked and Natalies eyes locked on the massive erection jutting straight out from him and she felt a response deep inside her body as if he was already buried there, and she broke the silence as she whispered, John
While Natalie remained on her back, her legs still slightly bent and parted, John stretched out on his side to the right of her, facing her as their eyes studied each other. He moved in to take her mouth in a gentle kiss, then he pulled back and began to slowly caress her body with his right hand, while his left supported his head. Using just his finger tips he traced the outline of her collar bones, her sternum, her bountiful breasts, down her stomach, and then her legs, and as he went he took note of her bodys reaction where it hardened, where the hair stood on end, where he felt it tremble under his touch. Finally his fingers parted her folds and very slowly entered her, and she closed her eyes as she gasped.
John gently moved his fingers inside her as he felt her grow more wet to his touch, and then he eased into position so he could replace his fingers with his mouth, and her hips moved off the blanket in response, but not in a sharp movement it was more in keeping with the kittenish way she slowly stretched when she woke up in the morning. As his mouth grew more insistent her thighs fell further open, the sides of her knees hitting the blanket. He didnt try to hold her hips and still her movements because there was something unutterably erotic about her rocking herself against his tongue, his mouth, his chin and her upper body was in motion, too, but writhing as if gently buffeted by soft waves in the ocean. Even the sounds she was making whimpers, moans, gasps were easing out slowly
Natalie felt like she was floating in warm water that was caressing every inch of her body, inside and out. She was giving herself over to touch and sensation, submitting completely to the man who owned her heart and had solo claim on her body.
She was growing incredibly wet against Johns tongue, and he could feel her flesh start to quiver a bit around him. He gently detached himself from her, put one of the pillows under her hips to raise her into the perfect position, and then knelt between her legs as her eyes opened to find his. He placed the engorged tip of his penis gently into her wet opening and she sighed in preparation for his possession of her. He penetrated her with breath-catching slowness so she could feel him claim her inch by inch so they both could enjoy the friction as it moved along his length, her depth, and took hold of both of them. He could feel himself pushing her walls wider while in response they tried to grip him harder the most devastating and intimate pushing/pulling match. Finally his journey was complete and he stopped there for moment so they could savor their becoming one. Tears shimmered in Natalies eyes as she gave him a half-smile which he returned.
John leaned forward, bracing himself on his forearms that bracketed her head, his hands moving underneath her head so he could pull her mouth closer and they kissed deeply, with Natalie tasting herself on his plundering tongue. Their hips began to rock against each other and Natalie wrapped her arms around his back, her legs around his hips and waist, the feel of her stockings rubbing against his skin further igniting his passion for her.
Natalie welcomed every thrust of him his weight almost crushing her his wide hips forcing her legs further apart just by his presence between them. As exciting as all the other ways he made love to her took her were, she realized this was her favorite because it felt like every part of them was joined, entwined touchingthey could wrap their arms around each other, meld their mouths, see each others features shift with their passion their eyes darken and cloud over all the while her body sheathed him, embraced him as he drove them to their shattering end.
Their movements had intensified as the friction between their legs between their tongues had increased. Finally their mouths could not contain their sounds any longer could not fully withstand the vibrations of their moans and they needed the gasping breaths they took when they parted. With each thrust of Johns hips Natalies eyes practically rolled back in her head now as her legs continued to encircle him, her hips thrusting back at him it seemed almost as if her hips were dislocated, so pliant were they in response to him. Natalie felt an exquisite tightness, a wrenching ache deep within, and then John delivered one final blow too many or, rather, perfectly enough and obliterated that tightness, assuaged that ache, and then her arms, legs and walls contracted sharply around him as she rode out the concussion that claimed every inch of her body.
John! she managed to cry out, and then he was following her falling more deeply into her, onto her as his release poured inside her, as his whole body quaked from the intensity of it all.
They didnt move for a good while, almost as if they were frozen together but simply not wanting to lose a bit of the contact between their bodies. Finally John rolled off Natalie and pulled her into his arms so she could rest her head against his chest. The only sounds, again, were the fire and their breathing which was returning to normal. Natalies hand was resting on Johns chest, gently rubbing it, and her ring reflected the fire. He picked her hand up and kissed her over the rings as their eyes met. I love you I am so amazed you are my wife
She smiled dreamily at him and said, Me too it makes me so warm inside to know youre my husband I love you, John
He tugged the sides of the blanket up so it enshrouded them in a cocoon, and they fell asleep holding each other.
Chapter 80
About 2am John woke up and realized they were still on the floor, but their cozy fire had burned out. Natalie was still in his arms, her head resting on his chest. He tried to move without her waking but wasnt successful since she stirred against him. She sleepily sat up and then shivered in the cool air. John stood and then leaned down to pick her up and carry her to their bed. The sheets and comforter were cool under and around them, but soon warmed up as they held each other tight and drifted back to sleep.
They woke up for good at 8 and gently made love one more time in a slow, tender, languid style that was a continuation of the night before. With a pang of sadness they stowed their wedding rings in the bedroom safe and then took a shower and got dressed, deciding to chance it and drive back to Quantico together. They arrived at 11 an hour ahead of Natalies deadline so she went with him to his apartment and helped him unpack his things again. She wanted to stay with him, alone, for every last moment she could. Finally she kissed him good-bye and headed out to the dorm.
See you around campus, McBain
Be good Buchanan and then he whispered McBain and winked at her.
The dorm was a hive of activity when Natalie walked in, and they were all glad to have her back among them, the threats all done with. When they asked what she had done she simply said shed spent the few days with family which was the truth, since John was her family now, and the thought warmed her. She noticed that Nero was there and they shared a small smile, then everyone started talking about their long weekends, the weeks ahead until Christmas, etc.
Soon Hart arrived with news of the day or evening. Like their last return from liberty, they were going to go on an evening run he and McBain were going to swing by at 8pm to get them. Natalie couldnt help but remember their last run and sure enough, at the halfway point that night he once again pulled her behind the outhouse but this time didnt just settle for using his fingers. He whispered hotly against her ear, Mrs. McBain you are out of your regulation uniform Im quite sure underwear is a requirement
But were also trained to be prepared for optimum efficiency in our maneuvers
I love it when you talk dirty to me.
She had to stifle a giggle which turned into a moan, and then she was biting into his shoulder and he into hers as they oh so efficiently brought each other to climax. Before the rest of the team had returned from watering their various trees, John and Natalie had folded back into those lingering around waiting for their brethren. The 2 weeks leading up to Christmas went pretty quickly. John and Natalie had broken the news about their impromptu marriage to their respective families, and when the shock wore off there were sincere well wishes and pledges for everyone to spend time getting to know each other. To that end, the McBains were joining in the Buchanan Christmas.
In the meantime, John and Natalie managed periodic assignations in the gym, the pool, and even his apartment when she detoured there instead of the library. A few times Nero did run interference for them by pretending to go for a run with Natalie and Natalie and Nero had to laugh when they realized a few people thought something was going on between THEM!
They were breaking for the Christmas Holiday on the afternoon of the 23rd, and John and Natalie planned to spend that night together at their home, and then drive Christmas Eve morning to Llanview where Vikki had already prepped the Carriage House for them.
On the night of the 21st Natalie had returned to her bunk after a late dinner at The Pub where she was able to briefly chat with John as he hung with a few friends and then returned to her bunk. She listened to some music on her i-Pod and then just to the increasing quiet in the dorm as everyone went to sleep. She had just drifted off herself when familiar arms closed around her and she opened her eyes in shock and tried to whisper, John! but hed put his hand gently over her mouth. Finally he uncovered her mouth and very softly she asked, What are you doing here?!
Living out a certain fantasy he said against her ear, and she had to strain to hear him. You may recall what you told me youd be ready for if I snuck in here rather than teased you on the phone if I yanked your pants and panties off her boxers were suddenly off her body and they were all shed been wearing besides her tank... if I freed the steel pressing against my zipper suddenly she felt him pressing right at her opening since her legs had spread of their own volitionyou said Id glide right in able to take you all at once and he did, as he clamped his mouth on hers to stifle her gaspy moanand when she had quieted somewhat he continued, you said youd beg me to split you in twodidnt you?
Natalie could only shake her head as she tried to keep her mouth shut and not let out the noises bubbling up in her throat.
Is that a yes, dear wife
Yes! She gasped as he sliced into her again.
She was stunned that he had come in here but so excited by it As she pulled a pillow against her face to muffle her noises she felt him roughly shove her tank top up so he could kiss, suck and lick her breasts as he kept himself buried in her but ground his hips forcefully he had quickly figured her bed would squeak far too revealingly if he thrust in and out. Soon his face was buried in the other side of her pillow as they climaxed together then the calmed enough to face each otherto kiss though he remained buried inside her triggering aftershocks for both of them. He finally shifted enough to set the alarm on his watch for 3am and then they were able to do one of their favorite things for at least a few hours hold each other while they slept.
Chapter 81
John and Natalie were home by mid-afternoon on the 23rd and didnt plan to leave the house until the next morning when they drove to Llanview. Just being in each others company, not having to hide their relationship was an expansive feeling. They had only been in the house 2 minutes when John disappeared upstairs for a moment, coming down with their wedding rings and earning a beaming smile and passionate kiss from Natalie in response.
They spent their day watching cheesy movies in the den, wrapped around each other, and then ate take-out Chinese in front of the fire. While they hadnt yet made love they knew they had so much free time ahead of them, so they could enjoy just being together in their home their day and evening had been punctuated by plenty of the make out sessions that were the perfect slice of fun and heat.
And they talked a lot about their paststheir future.
John would you think Id lost my mind if I said that once I pass this program and I DO intend to pass that Im not sure I want to be IN the Special Branch?
John held his breath for a moment so the relief flooding through him wouldnt be evident on his face. This all had to be Natalies decision. No, not at all but Im curious about what you have in mind instead
Well, Crawford and I have talked a few times he seems to think that I have an aptitude for the type of work the BAU does and I do find it fascinating
He had mentioned your talent to me, too and I totally see that. BAU is also a plum posting Natalie
Yeah, and Id have to go back to school, too and that is also interesting
I think youd be great at it and I also thought that you might even be an occasional instructor in the Special Branch training program
Really, me? Why? She was flattered hed thought of that.
Because you get it on every level, Natalie. Your physical conditioning and stamina under duress have been undeniable and you also have a flair for all the classroom subjects. You put your training both psychological and physical to perfect use when you took out Gentry and Hawkins. How you managed to keep it together well, its because you are good at what you do because you deserved to be in the program but if it has also showed you that that might not be what you want your lifes work to be
Now Im more interested in my LIFE with you and pursuing the BAU option could give me more flexibility
Yeahand my work with the Child Predator task force and as an instructor in your program keep me pretty much around, tooyou know, our work will always have some danger to it, but I have to be honest, Natalie, Im glad that you might decide not to stick with the Special Branch I am not going to try to make that decision for you, but my heart will rest a lot easier if youre not on that team
I know and that has played a part in the decision, but the main thing is, I dont want to be apart from you any more than is absolutely necessary
Ive grown pretty partial to having you around myself its strange because in some ways these past few weeks have been hard, having to keep our secret and our distance. But, just being able to look up and see you be in the same placethat matters to me. A lot.
And it didnt hurt that we were able to grab some private time togetherI STILL cant believe you snuck in my bunk!
You loved it!
Yes, I did but that was a huge risk!
Well, given that all your classmates are guys I think they would have understood
She rolled her eyes but laughed and then said, Lets get all this stuff cleaned up and head upstairs
You trying to get me into bed?
Uh, yeah.
Well OK, then and be VERY glad that were not in the dorm or behind the outhouse or at the gym because I am giving you fair warning I intend to make you scream
Natalie almost dropped the plates at the sound of his voice and his words not to mention the heat of his breath on her neck since he had somehow managed to walk up incredibly close to her in a nanosecond. Her entire body suffused with heat.
John laughed out loud at her reaction, quite pleased with himself, and sauntered into the kitchen to deposit the take-out containers in the garbage. The joke was on him, however, because when he turned around Natalie was right behind him and she pushed him up against the island, opened his pants and yanked them and his boxers down and took every aroused inch of him into her hot mouth. He gripped onto the island behind him as he hoarsely cried Natalie! both in shock and pleasure. She made short work of him, practically yanking his orgasm out of him with the suction of her mouth and the slightly rough stroke of her hands, and then she licked him clean before finally standing before him. He had not been able to hold a sound back and she smirked at him and said, So, who is it that was just screaming? Or do we use shouting for a manly guy like you? When your legs can carry you Ill be upstairs waiting for you dont worry, I wont start without you
She gave him a saucy smile over her shoulder he was sure shed deliberately stuck out her tight tush at him as she did so and then left him leaning against the island, his breath still erratic and his legs still trembling.
When a bolt of inspiration struck John he quickly found his second wind and caught up to Natalie before shed quite reached the landing on the second floor. She looked over her shoulder at him with the humor dying on her face when she saw the look on his, which showed both heat and intent. In the space of a heartbeat she was in a controlled fall forward, her hands coming to rest a few steps up. Then her hips were jerked back, her pants and panties yanked down and John took her forcefully from behind as she clung to the wooden step for support. Lord he was taking her breath away as he pounded into her. Then she felt his hands move under her sweater to her bra so he could drag the lace down off her breasts and his hands roughly groped them in time with his rutting hips. Oh, God, John was all she could manage, and then he pinched her nipples and got the exact reaction hed promised she screamed as her release thundered through her and dragged him along for the ride as he let it all go deep inside her.
John held onto Natalie tightly as their bodies continued to jerk and shudder. When theyd finally calmed a bit they literally crawled forward and stretched out in the hallway outside the master bedroom, gasping for air. John said, Shit, I need a drink! And Natalie giggled and crawled towards the bedroom a task made a bit more difficult since her pants and panties were bunched around her knees still. John groaned at the view that provided, but was far too spent to do anything about it, yet. Natalie dragged herself onto the bench at the end of their bed and was suitably impressed when John actually walked into the room, though his gait was not what one would call steady. He looked at her and said, Lose the clothes, McBain, while I get us a drink to steady our nerves
Natalie obeyed and saw that John stripped as he made his way to the cabinet with the bar. He poured two good measures of whiskey and then sat beside her on the bench as they sipped it. There was something almost decadent about sitting naked and drinking together, but then again, theyd just screwed like dogs on the stairs, so
You know, Natalie, you may end up being the death of me you snap my control quicker than anyone Ive ever known
She laughed, and still couldnt quite catch her breath so she said breathlessly, Well, thats only if you dont kill me first and clearly I dont exactly have control around you, either
John lifted his glass in a toast and said, Then lets drink to an utter lack of control and they clinked glasses.
Natalie turned to face John and sat Indian style on the bench, which only served to open her up wide to his stunned view a fact to which she was apparently oblivious.
Jesus, Natalie! My poor old heart!
What?
In response he pushed his right index finger into her moist heat and she gasped, Oh! and some of her whiskey sloshed out of her glass on onto her chest, since shed been raising her glass to her lips. With a second finger joining his first, John leaned forward and licked the whiskey off Natalie as her head fell back and she called his name. He pulled back and their eyes locked and then they fell forward so their mouths could meet and they could taste the whiskey on each other. When they broke apart John removed his fingers from Natalie, put their glasses on the floor beside the bench and guided her to him so she could straddle him sink down on him. She wound her arms around his neck, his hands found a home on her ass so he could guide her movements, and their mouths met once again. Since they had still not completely recovered from their earlier exploits, it didnt take much of their intense grinding against each other to bring each other to completion.
Eventually they crawled into bed, wrapped around each other, and slept through the night.
Chapter 82
John and Natalie headed to Llanview the next morning and by the time they pulled through the gates of Llanfair there was a welcoming committee fully assembled the McBains were already there, having accepted Vikkis invitation to stay over in a couple of the spare bedrooms. For the next few hours over lunch there was much excited conversation about John and Natalie being married, how they fell for each other, etc. The two had plotted out a story that was near enough to the truth without going too much into detail Natalie still didnt want her family to know about Gentry and Hawkins. Everyone oohed and aaahed over them meeting in class and being unable to fight their feelings for each other and it was clear that the two families were going to get along famously.
Natalie and Eve spent a bit of time together and Natalie realized she liked the woman very much.
Natalie, I really am looking forward to getting to know you better. Any woman that could open my John up again the way you have a way Ive never seen him is very special. I had worried so much about him, being alone as he got older. But nowwell, youve given me a lot of peace along with my Johnny.
Thank you, Eve. Hes really been here for me during this crazy training program and I I love him very much
Natalie, I can tell that looking in your eyes and I can see his love for you in his
John faired equally well with the Buchanan men and Jessica, who questioned him vigorously for a while but then welcomed him to the family.
Finally John and Natalie were able to adjourn to the Carriage House and Natalie was touched when she saw how Vikki had decorated it for the Holidays it was replete with a large Christmas tree, boughs and lights twinkling on the banisters and mantle, and copious amounts of mistletoe hung around and John took advantage of the one hanging over the front door.
After dinner at 8 the entire group was going to head to midnight mass. But that gave them a few hours to themselves as their families so blatantly pointed out to the newlyweds to the point that it was a bit embarrassing. But then again they certainly love their alone time.
Vikki must also have sent someone down to light the fireplace since it was glowing, adding to the soft lighting created by the tree and other decorations. Natalie saw that there were tons of packages under the tree she had done her shopping on-line and had everything shipped here.
John and Natalie had agreed that their gift to each other would be a trip somewhere warm a real honeymoon once the program was over. But it was soon clear they had both broken the rules as they had little boxes in hand to give each other and they laughed at that. They opened up the boxes simultaneously and were incredulous at the gifts because they were identical. Each of them had bought the other a St. Dwynwen medal the Welsh patron saint of lovers.
Wow they both said simultaneously. Apparently they had each taken note of it when theyd been at Sams and then they smiled because they realized he must have known theyd each ordered the same gift, and knew it would be an especially happy coincidence.
Well, Natalie, I cant help but feel weve some how been divinely blessed John said as he pulled her close.
I know first Kermit and now this! She giggled.
They fell back on the couch in a twisted heap as they kissed each other over and over. Coming up for air every now and again and just holding each other. They were kissing again and it was getting heated, with Natalie lying on the couch, John on top of her, his jeans-clad hips resting between her jeans-clad legs as they rocked against each other. John took his mouth off hers so he could begin to open her shirt when he started in surprise as he saw the frowsy blonde leering at them.
Well well well seems you got moves off the strip-dance floor Mr. Agent man.
Natalie just groaned since she knew that voice and its way with words anywhere. John jumped off the couch and Natalie and then they were both standing up. Roxy pulled Natalie into a big hug which she genuinely returned. Then Roxy hugged John as well
Vikki invited me and Rexy to the festoonities I just had to see ya but I shoulda remembered you guys were newlyweds Ill catch you later at the big-house and Ill make sure everyone else knows not to come knocking since youll be, you know, interposed
Before they could stop her and suggest she just keep her mouth shut, she was gone.
Great, I cant wait to look your dad in the eye when I see him again
John, were MARRIED I dont think hes going to be surprised that we have sex I think the assumption of everyone at the main house is that is exactly how we are spending our time right now so, how about it?
You expect me to perform on command under pressure? he said with mock affront.
Well, youre already standing at attention so Im not exactly sure what your beef is
Beef? Is that all I am to you? Beefcake? Oh, the sordid life of an ex-Chippendales dancer
Natalie had collapsed back onto the couch laughing, but her ears perked up when he said that Hey, why dont you REALLY perform for me dance for me, John come on and strip for me Ive got plenty of singles
Uh, no. thats not gonna happen
Aw, come on you danced in front of all those strange, screaming women Im your wife, Johncant you dance for me? Natalie had gotten off the couch to walk up closely to him, talking in an increasingly husky voice.
John banded his arms around her and whispered, I give you what they really wanted he said as he ground his hardness into her. And I dont make you wait through some silly dance
John and Natalie were a good 15 minutes late for dinner even though Roxy had left them three hours earlier. They both blushed a little at the knowing glances and smirks that came their way, but then again, the WERE newlyweds who had been kept apart (largely) by circumstances for the past few weeks.
Chapter 83
Christmas and the ensuing few days passed quickly and it was a special time for John and Natalie as they got to be together and with their loved ones. They wanted to spend New Years in their own home, however, so they left Llanview on December 30th after more endless rounds of hugs, kisses and well wishes. Natalies family felt so much better knowing that even if it was a secret and at a bit of a distance she had someone like John looking out for her someone who loved her.
They were due back at Quantico by noon on January 2nd, and they intended to get as much out of their time together as they could. They enjoyed basic pastimes hanging at the local Starbucks, having lunch out, going to the movies, and spending time relaxing at home. They knew it was an indication of what their life would be like once they could be together full-time, and it made them both happy and anxious to get on with it. They were invited to Neros for their New Years Eve party, but respectfully declined since they wanted the time alone.
What would you like to do for New Years, Natalie? While we stay in.besides the obvious, of course
Well, I think we should pick out something great for dinner that we can spend some time making together while we drink plenty of wine along the way then we can put music on, light a fire, turn down the lights and have a pajama party while we eat dinner and then enjoy after
A pajama party?
Yeah I want to go buy us both some nice silky pajamas that will feel great against our skin and underneath each others handsuntil we dont need them any more
Though John was not exactly the biggest silk pajamas fan, what she described sounded great to him. Im in do I get to see you try on and model all your nightgown selections?
Nope. It should be a surprise
New Years Eve morning they headed out early to do their food shopping they were making chicken piccata with rice, a salad, sorbet for dessert, champagne, wine they were fully prepared for their evening. As they prepped for dinner they were dressed in cozy jeans and sweaters, but while it simmered for the final minutes headed upstairs to quickly get showered and changed John had volunteered to use the guest bathroom to save time and give Natalie a bit of privacy as she got ready. He wanted to be surprised by her
He got downstairs first and kept an eye on dinner he was dressed in very simple black silk mens pajamas, and Natalie was right, they did feel good against the skin. He turned when he heard Natalie and couldnt help the smile on his face. Her nightgown was incredibly simple yet unerringly sexy. It was the palest pink silk charmeuse and, cut on the bias, it fell to her ankles. The deep v-halter-neck was held up by what looked like a silk ribbon tied at the nape of her neck. She had left her hair flowing loosely around her shoulders. And he could tell she had absolutely nothing on under the thin fabric that skimmed and accentuated her body. He held his hand out to her and she walked over and when he took her in his arms he realized the other great feature of the nightgown it was essentially backless. Her back was naked from the ribbon down to a couple of inches below the small of her back the fabric started again just above the curve of her taut behind, and actually dipped into a slight v. His hands couldnt help rubbing her back as she wrapped her arms around him.
Natalie you look beautiful. Arent you going to be a bit cold though?
Not if you stay close to me
That was an assignment he wouldnt mind.
They set out their dinner on the tray on the ottomans and John had Natalie practically sit in his lap both to keep her warm and because he suddenly couldnt bear for her to be even arms-distance away. They tasted each others lips more than their food though they had done a great job on their meal. Soft music had been playing all evening in the background, and John asked Natalie to dance with him. Soon they were holding each other tightly, swaying in front of the fire. Periodically theyd share a deep kiss, and then Natalies head would go back to resting on his chest, her arms around his middle, his arms around her back. Their bodies were hyper-aware of each other as the think silk hid virtually nothing it just served as a tactile sensation that was additive to their whole experience.
Johns heart was full of tenderness for Natalie and he continued to marvel at their varied feelings and passion for each other. As they danced his eyes fell on the staircase and he remembered the week earlier when he had chased Natalie up them and taken her as forcefully as he had not an ounce of tenderness to be found. Yet right now, he couldnt fathom touching her that way he wanted to be gentle yet still communicate the intensity of his feelings for her. He could feel her nipples press against his chest, and his groin tightened when he thought of bringing his mouth to them sometime later this evening.
Natalie had never felt more safe warm loved. She felt the tenderness in his embrace, and the simultaneous hardness of his arousal pressing into her belly and she loved it all. She loved everything about him.
The clock struck 11:30 and John pulled back a bit to look down at Natalie, saying softly, I want to be in bed with you when this year turns to next
Lets go
John had already put some champagne on ice upstairs, so all that was left was for them to be there the dishes and everything else could wait for tomorrow. He swooped Natalie off her feet he loved to do that, she felt so small in his arms and carried her upstairs. He set her down and they looked at each other for a long, heated moment. Then Natalie moved her hands to the buttons on Johns pajama top and opened them, parting the fabric so she could move her hands under it and around to his bare back, and press her mouth on his chest his neck. All the while his hands traced a light pattern up and down the length of her back. She pushed the top off him and it fell in a whisper to the floor and then she moved her hands to the band of his pants and pushed them down, having to use a little more force to get them over the resistance of his fully-aroused manhood. When they fell to the floor he stepped out of them and Natalies hand moved around him, gently stroking him, savoring the feel of steel wrapped in his velvet skin.
John moaned a bit and then gently moved her hand away, kissing its palm as he whispered, I dont want this to go too fast He untied the bow at the nape of her neck and the top of her gown fell to her waist revealing her creamy breasts. He brought both of his warm hands to them and kneaded them gently before giving a gentle kiss to each. Then his hands moved to her hips and pushed the gown off her so it landed in a pool at her feet. She stepped out of it and towards him so they could hold each other tight for a minute. He pulled back and whispered, Get in bed, Natalie and she did so while he quickly popped and poured the champagne.
Natalie was sitting up, leaning against the headboard, the lower part of her body covered by the comforter, but her stomach and breasts completely exposed to him. He handed her a glass and joined her on the bed in that exact way, sliding an arm around her in the process, and she rested her head against his shoulder. Neither of them wanted any noise to intrude they could hear the strains of the soft music they had left playing downstairs so rather than turn on the TV to watch the ball drop, they would listen for the sound of the clock striking midnight.
Natalie Im so happy I found you this year was three quarters over when I met you, and if anyone would have told me this is how Id be spending New Years I wouldnt have let myself hope for this I love you
I was going to say its like a dream, but its better, because it actually is real and it FEELS real I love you so much, John
The clock chimed twelve times as Natalie and John toasted each other and took a sip of their champagne and that was all they had patience for. They put their glasses down on their bedside tables and then rolled to face each other, fully stretched out on the bed. They kissed each other deeply, with mounting passion for several minutes, their hands winding into each others hair to deepen that connection. Then Natalie felt Johns hand pulling up on her left thigh and she snaked it over his hip and around his back so he could have the access he needed to push inside her. When he was buried as deeply as he could go their mouths parted so they could look at each other. Their hands slid down to grab hold of each others backsides, and gently but firmly increased the intensity and depth of their coupling. Their mouths re-joined as well and they savored their ongoing connection as they took their time bringing each other to completion. When Natalie ripped her mouth from Johns to cry out against his neckwhen he felt her tight, hot, wet flesh clutch at him, he spilled deeply inside her as he wrapped his arms in a tight band around her quaking body. His heated seed seemed to spread throughout Natalies entire body, warming her to her very core she felt her heart and soul expand even more at its touch and she wrapped her arms around her husband having never felt such a close connection to anyone in her life.
I love you John
I love you, Natalie Happy New Year
Chapter 84
As had become their usual style, John and Natalie didnt leave the house the entirety of January 1st. When they were living here full-time, in the open as Mr. & Mrs. McBain, they knew they would venture out more both separately and together. But right now they needed to store up every moment they could. A good part of the day they spent stretched out together on the large leather couch in the den, reading spy novels and necking like teenagers every once and a while. Of course on one of those occasions things took a decidedly adult turn and then they were napping to recover. It was all bliss.
They ate leftovers for dinner and then headed upstairs by about 8pm. They took a hot shower together which further relaxed them, and then they climbed into bed. They held each other close for a few moments and then Natalie began to kiss her way down Johns body, pushing him so he was flat on his back. He found himself holding his breath as he awaited her arrival where he was dying to feel her mouth. Soon she was licking the length of him, around his tip, especially on the underside of the sensitive ridge where it joined his shaft. He whispered, Natalie and moved both of his hands to his hair. She moved her mouth over him, taking him all in until he could feel himself hit the back of her throat and he moaned at the contact. Her mouth and hand moved up and down him for torturous moments and he felt himself reaching for the point of no return but he wanted to cum inside his wife at the base of her womb, not in her ache-inducing mouth.
John pulled up on Natalies arms and she slid up his body, spreading her legs over him as she did. She gasped when she felt his hardness press between her folds and then their mouths were fusing in a hot, decidedly open-mouthed kiss. John pulled on Natalie again to advance her position so he could draw first her right nipple and then her left into his mouth to suck and bite gently. She felt a jolt of electricity between her legs and a rush of fluid there, and wished desperately that he was still pressed between her folds at that moment, so she began to wriggle around trying to move back down his body. John relented and eased his hold on her arms so she could get where she wanted to be where she needed to be. He needed her there as well. While he remained lying flat, Natalie knelt for a moment, a knee on either side of his hips. Then she took firm hold of him while she lowered herself positioned him at her opening. Their eyes locked as she sank down onto him and when he was in as deep as he could go, she sat up straight, perfectly still, literally rooted to the spot for a moment as her hands rested on his stomach. He filled her so completely that it still somewhat shocked her body a bit every time she took him inside her. His body was a challenge to hers, but also delivered pleasure beyond what she could have imagined.
She began to move her hips in a rocking motion, not wanting to lose a moment of his total possession by moving up and down on him. No, right now she needed to feel him embedded in her so deeply she could feel him in her belly as she moved on him.
John could feel how tightly she gripped him and heat spread through his body as she ground against him. He moved his hands to her breasts to knead them while she continued to gyrate her hips and her flesh clutched him deeper within. Natalie could feel her ache converting to motion to the contractions that would shoot an explosion of sensation throughout her body. She craved the feeling of his mouth on hers, the powerful way his tongue would mate with hers, so she fell forward and John caught her, crushed her against him so that their chests were mashed together, their mouths colliding hotly. John had begun to gyrate his hips, too, and they were both writhing as he banded his arms around her back to give them the shred of stability needed so their hips could continue their now-fierce movements that kept him anchored within while her walls held him in their fiery grip.
Their moans vibrated along their dueling tongues and into the recesses of each others mouths and suddenly John felt the urgent need to dominate her and drive them to where their bodies were clearly clamoring to go. Ripping his mouth from hers he flipped them so that she was now in the subordinate position and before she could fully adjust he hooked his arms under her knees and yanked her lower half off the bed so he could drive into her. He took her so hard, so deeply that she literally felt impaled on him, each stroke delivering a shard of pain that served to heighten rather than diminish the erotic sensations building within her. She could hear herself from a distance calling Johns name over and over in supplication, not to stop, but to finish her to deliver her from this exquisite torture. Just when she thought she could not withstand one moment more, she fractured into a million pieces, each of which was molten hot and fiercely shredded through her body as she screamed, her hands clutching desperately at Johns arms for some semblance of balance of reality, because surely she was no longer a flesh and blood presence she was just energy and release
For a brief moment John was a deeply aroused spectator at the force of Natalies orgasm and the way it took hold of her but the vice-like grip that convulsed around him was impossible to ignore and when her nails dug into his forearms as she tried to steady herself that tiny stab of pain proved his trigger, and he collapsed onto her, his weight driving her into the mattress as violent tremors roiled within him. When he fell on her he speared her even more deeply, which a second ago would have seemed an impossibility, and she cried out at the renewed wave of heat that rushed over her. At least now she could clutch his shoulders, his back, bury her head in his neck as she gasped for breath at least now she was weighted down by him and wouldnt be swept away
John was floored this had all started out with passion, but with a gentleness, too this felt as if for a moment they were slipping the bonds of their corporeal presence and had converted to nothing but ardent energy. He could feel Natalie trembling beneath him and began to move off her because he feared he might be crushing her, but when she felt him shift she tightened her grip on him, still needing his weight, his solidness as she returned to herself.
Long moments later she loosened her arms and he moved off her, to the side, pushing her damp hair off her face, noting the desire-drowsy eyes that looked back at him. She raised her hand to caress his face, and he saw that it shook a little. No words would suffice at that moment, so John leaned down to claim her mouth with infinite gentleness and she matched her kiss to his, though he felt a shiver run through her at the contact. The sheen of sweat that had covered their bodies was turning cool, and John got off the bed, picked Natalie up and carried her to the bathroom and into the shower, and soon they were in the warm comfort of hot water, billowing steam and each others arms.
Natalie was clinging to John for support, but placing soft kisses on his chest where her head rested. He wasnt doing much better himself, given the force of his own release, but it was a biological fact that Natalies body bore the brunt of their intense love-making sessions no matter the pleasure they brought her. He moved his hands to her head, her face, and gently tipped it up so he could look at her.
Are you all right, Natalie? That was pretty intense
She looked at him with the ghost of a smile playing around her lips, It was absolutely intense and I am more than all right just recovering you take my breath awayand my ability to stand on my own she said with a weak laugh. She was a bit sore but didnt quite know how to tell him that she was glad it made her feel like she was totally his he had claimed her, possessed her a bit like he had branded her and she could feel his imprint she wrapped her arms more tightly around him as he helped rinse her hair.
After their shower they dried each other carefully and then headed back to their bed, climbing in and drawing great comfort from the feel of skin against skin as their arms encircled each other and they slipped into a deep sleep.
Chapter 85
In the middle of the night Natalie and John turned to each other in a semi-wakened state and made love slowly in a way that was the antithesis of their last time, yet no less satisfying. As their heartbeats returned to normal they whispered their love for one another and fell back to sleep. The next morning they tried to shake off the sadness that was creeping in around the edges of their time together they had just spent the longest stretch of their lives together as a couple, and it hurt their hearts to think of going back to acting like acquaintances and colleagues. Natalie couldnt help the tears that gathered in her eyes as they stowed their rings back in the safe, and John pulled her close and held her for a long time, finding he was more deeply affected by that little ritual than hed expected.
They were subdued when they said their good-byes at Johns apartment and Natalie was finding it difficult to find her emotional balance as she walked back to the dorm. It helped a little when she saw her friends and heard their entertaining stories about their Holidays. She was able to talk about hers with decent openness, emphasizing the Buchanans and Balsams.
A few days passed and the Quantico routine was re-established but Natalie felt a listlessness that she could only classify as being heartsick. She missed John so much, was dying for just a simple hug, but thus far theyd had to make do with late-night phone calls and glances across the room.
Natalie found some relief in her class work and studies she loved all the psychology courses she was taking, along with scenario planning/plotting. She also threw herself back into her work-outs, pushing her body to exhaustion. But events conspired to keep John and Natalie away from each other except in the official context of the program. First, they learned that the old gym would be shut for two weeks so they could deal with a burgeoning rat problem, and drain and repair the pool. In addition, there was a special course for state police leaders from across the country, and the second bedroom in Johns apartment had been pressed into service also for two weeks! Luckily the guy bunking with him was a decent sort, but John felt like punching him every time he saw him because his presence meant Natalies absence. John was reluctant to sneak into the dorm again because it was a huge risk, but he was getting to the point where he was going to chance it, if only to hold Natalie in his arms for a bit, to fall asleep with her
The extent of their physical connection had happened two evenings previously at The Pub when most of the candidates and instructors had opted to go for a few drinks. With a bit of subtle engineering on Neros part, Natalie and John had ended up sitting beside each other and holding hands under the table, keeping their thighs close together for as long as possible.
Finally, on day 14 the candidates were doing fighting drills and proficiency tests and Hart being Hart John was going to have to throttle him some day he once again selected John and Natalie as fight partners and it was going to be both agony and ecstasy. When the whistle blew to signal the start of their match, they took each other down in short order, and John had to remind himself to fight her because all he wanted to do was hug her to him. But when John heard Natalies soft gasp the first time their bodies truly came into contact he felt the heat course through his veins and like previous times of pent-up frustration they used their fight as a proxy for what they really wanted to be doing to each other. John could feel Natalie quivering at his touch and he knew her body and its responses enough to know it was out of passion, not fearnot anger. Removing any doubt was when he had her pinned at one point she rasped into his ear so only he could hear, I wish you were inside me right now
He groaned but could do nothing but continue to fight until the whistle was blown again. Natalie was shaken enough by the end that she made a bee-line for the rest room, splashing cold water on her face.
She and John kept their distance as the rest of the class did their bouts. At the end, he walked by her and as quickly and quietly as he could he said, My office, 15 minutes
It was already after hours so the fifth floor was largely deserted, and no one thought twice about seeing a candidate approaching an instructors office. Natalie knocked exactly once on the door and it was yanked open and she felt Johns grip around her wrist as he pulled her into the office, shut and locked the door, then had her in his arms, his mouth on hers, practically shoving his tongue down her throat. She clung to him and thrust her tongue against his, trying to keep pace. They moaned as their mouths remained melded, their passion and actions raw. Natalie was vaguely aware of Johns hands on her sweats and next they along with her panties, were bunched at her ankles and while Johns fingers plunged inside her she tried to keep enough of her wits about her to kick her sneakers off and then the clothing. All the while their mouths were absorbing their noises.
John backed Natalie further into his office, his fingers still buried in her and then he removed them and ended their kiss so he could turn her around and bend her forward over his desk, kicking her legs apart while he dropped his pants and boxers down to his own ankles. He groaned when he saw her tight ass and how wet she was how she was panting as she waited for him to take her. Natalie was trembling in excitement and the lingering impact of his fingers having been inside her, knowing he would be filling her any second. When he seemed to hold back for a moment she said his name as a breathy question, John?
He responded by thrusting into her to the hilt, moving his hand over her mouth to quiet her reaction. She was so tight, so wet, that unable to help himself he began to pound into her, but after a few decisive strokes he knew that as deeply arousing as this was, it wasnt enough for him right now. He needed to hold her. feel her return his tight embrace. John withdrew from her body and took a few gasping breaths to steady himself while she looked at him over her shoulder with a look that held her desire and confusion.
It was with gentle hands that he pulled her up from the desk and turned her around to face him. He took her in his arms and held her close, feeling her body shaking from her reaction to his previous possession, but also the sigh that came out as their arms went around each other. He kicked his own shoes, pants and boxers off and picked her up, carrying her over to the couch and sitting down with her across his lap. He took her face in his hands and said softly, Ive missed you so much I love you
Natalie smiled softly at him and in a shaky voice said, Ive missed you too and I love you so much
They kissed with tenderness, yet that was almost at war with the reality of his incredible hardness resting underneath her backside. Love versus carnality and really an intoxicating blend of both. Finally they shifted so Natalie was lying back on the couch, John between her legs, and then he was inside her again, but this time they could hold each other, kiss each other, and it didnt take long for them to climax together, swallowing each others moans and whimpers. For the better part of the next hour they just held each other, kissing occasionally, but relishing the chance to have their arms around each other. John hadnt realized how much he loved the feeling of Natalies face buried in the crook of his neck, but feeling her breath there now he inhaled her scent, too, because it was so HER She was doing much the same, locking away memories for all her senses that she could access during their time apart.
When they heard what they surmised was the cleaning crew starting to make their way around, they disentangled themselves, got up from the couch and found their clothing their shoes. They stood in a tight hug for several more minutes, then after a deep, soulful kiss, then Natalie left and walked slowly back to the dorms. She felt both better and worse at the same time.
Natalie felt bereft when the connection was severed. Just being able to look at them had made her feel better. Now she was stuck with these two and she desperately wanted to believe that they would do as Hawkins had said and not touch her for 72 hours, but she had little real faith that was the case. Plus, she couldnt help but thinking that there was no way they were just going to give up if John, Mason and Chase got close. Her gut and the training she had received thus far told her this was a trap. She had no doubt that Hawkins hate for Mason and John was real. If she was right, then they were using her as the bait to lure them in. They would try to kill their enemies and theyd take her anyway. She had to think stay as calm as possible and plan something anything that she could do if it seemed like they were getting close to finding her some way to warn them or stop Hawkins and Gentry from harming them.
Hawkins stood with Natalie still in his arms. He was built quite like his son shorter and squatter than Mason, but powerfully built. He looked at her and smiled at her and it made her blood run cold. Was that talk getting you excited, Natalie? Was that ever your fantasy? My boy and I, we can make it come true we will make it come truebut even though some give me no credit, I DO try to keep my word once Ive given it and I have told my boy I expect him to be good, too but itll be hard he then dumped her on the mattress and began to dismantle some, though not all, of the equipment.
John, Mason and Chase were quiet for several moments trying to absorb everything and it was a LOT. They had all heard more than they wanted and the thought of Natalie stuck with those two in chains in her underwear. It was a recipe for disaster even if they did ultimately find her.
Chase broke the silence, OK, what do we know? Does anyone have any idea where he might have taken her? It looked like some crappy cabin or something onscreen.
John tried to engage his brain, he had to they had to work on finding Natalie, not being scared for herWell, not quite four hours elapsed between the time he grabbed her and the videoconference. In that time we have to assume that he switched cars at least once and wherever he is, he said theyre buried, so my operating assumption is deep in some woods where it would be hard to see them from the air the question is, did he already have all that equipment set up, or did he have to do that after they got there which would have taken some time so where are the woodsthe forests around here where he could get them lost where we would have a challenge to penetrate them where there might be a cabin
Mason was tracking with what John was saying he thought he was right with his line of thinking, and it was triggering some memories for him of his CIA training finally he said, The CIA training grounds. About 10,000 acres that no one knows belong to them. 90% of it is dense woods. It only takes about an hour to drive there. Some of my memories are hazy because I was there during my final hazing and hell week during torture but there are at least 3 shacks they are pretty well spread out in those woods, though. But Hawkins knows that place like the back of his hand. Hed feel like he had an advantage over us who knows what resources hes buried out there
That sounds promising said Chase. And John agreed. Chase continued, One thing, though. I dont believe for a second that Hawkins intends to give Natalie up. I think we have to be prepared for the likelihood that this is a trap. That in the end he really wants us to find him which is why I think youre right, Mason, about him going to those woods. He probably knows youll think of them
Chase had given voice to what Mason and John had already thought that this was a trap. This was a vicious game that Hawkins was going to play with them all, but play it they would because Natalie was the bait and they were going to have to figure out a way to beat Hawkins and Gentry and their own game.
John said quietly, Well, we have no choice, do we? We have to play the game. But lets not forget Natalie. She isnt a civilian whos been taken by madmen. She is a trained operative she has skills and steel. If she can hold on to that steel she can use those skills
Chase and Mason just nodded. He was right but she had been through so much already. How much more could she find within her?
John spoke up again, OK, whats our plan? We need maps of those woodswe also need to come up with a list of other places he COULD have taken her and make sure someone is searching there. Can we finally get the CIA to really help us with this? And we should give her classmates the chance to help they were all talented in their own right, even before the extra training theyve gotten here and of course all available agents but EVERYONE needs to be told that they MUST stand down when they get close and then we have to get to the hotspot as quickly as possible we also will need aerial support figure out best weapons do we travel on foot?
Mason and Chase exchanged glances John was now in the zone and they were glad. He needed to do this and they needed him at his best. Soon they had divvied up responsibilities. Chase was going to brief and prepare all FBI and local law enforcement and ask the Director to reach out to the CIA Director. Mason was going to work his CIA back channels to get the G-2 on the woods, maps, cabins, etc. And John was going to update Natalies classmates and see who wanted to take part. All this was to be done within 2 hours, tops. Then they would map out their plan for diving into those woods and finding Natalie.
When John, Mason and Chase re-assembled they were all fully outfitted in camo, and had backpacks loaded down with provisions. They also had night vision goggles and plenty of firearms and munitions. Natalies best buddies were going to join these three in their search efforts they would be able to carry more provisions and arms. But they also knew the time would come when they would have to yield. All of Natalies classmates had volunteered to help, no matter the danger. Soon they had planned out their approach to the woods and had prepped the various search teams with maps, insights into what they faced with Hawkins and Gentry including the fact that it was likely a trap and they should expect deadly force and also with strict instruction NOT to interdict Hawkins and Gentry. That they needed to call Mason, John and Chase if they thought they had found them. The teams were all going to drive to various entry points into the forest, but then they had to go on foot. Even though some of the terrain was navigable via vehicle, it would announce their approach from miles away. That was why they were going to need most of the 72 hours going slowly and quietly on foot was going to be the challenge.
Chapter 72
The next 60 hours passed in a sense of optimism, followed by dashed hopes, followed by a fear of futility, followed by hard-gained optimism again. John, Mason and Chase remained sure that they were right about where Hawkins and Gentry had taken Natalie. Unfortunately they had to guess about which cabin was being used and they had clearly chosen the worst order the first two were empty. They had 12 more hours, which should be ample time, but they hated that Natalie was stuck with those bastards this long. Plus they were tired and cold, and hungry given the sparse rations theyd taken time to eat. They had hoped to be as fresh as possible for the altercation sure to come, but they were now going to have to find a third or fourth wind.
For Natalie the time was glacial. It was almost worse than her torture sessions because at least then she had something to concentrate on to try to get through They fed her halfway decently and had let her take a bath every day but they had watched her do so and it was unnerving. Still, she needed to feel clean and the heated water helped her feel less numb. She also noticed that Gentry was finding it harder and harder to keep in line. When his dad went out to scout for signs of anyone approaching and to ensure his early warning signals were in place Gentry had gotten in the habit of stripping down and parading in front of Natalie, his arousal evident, and telling her what he planned to do to her with it once he could. The most recent time hed actually begun to jerk himself off. He even begged his father to just let him kiss her, but mercifully Hawkins had turned him down flat and lectured him on the beauty of delayed gratification spoken like a true stalker, Natalie had thought.
She had been turning over plans in her head all along on how she might take action save herself spare John, Mason and Chase from any harm. She kept coming back to the same plan, but it made her blood run cold because it had a huge chance of backfiring on her. But she had heard enough of Hawkins and Gentrys whispered conversations to know that she was right. They were going to take the others out as soon as they got close and then shed be taken away to whatever secret hiding place Hawkins had set up for himself as his ultimate escape.
About six hours before the deadline some alarms started going off. Hawkins was gleeful and he said, Theyve reached the outer perimeter. Theyre only about a two hours out on foot. This is perfect. Im going to go make sure the rest of our fail-safes are in place. Ill be back in 45 minutes at the latest probably only half hour though
I want to take out McBain, pops. HES mine
Fine if thats how it works out the most important thing is to get them all and get them quick!
Natalie knew she had no choice she had to act.
Gentry was clearly charged up and spoiling for a fight he was also heated up in other areas He stripped off all his clothes again as he began to do some push-ups and other exercises, making sure Natalie had a view. She began to prepare herself for what she knew she must do. She had to steel herself for what was to come. She laughed privately to herself because all of a sudden Lady Macbeth popped into her head more particularly her soliloquy invocating evil when she was preparing herself to kill Duncan when she was begging the spirits to take her female characteristics away so shed be strong enough resolved enough. Natalie finally understood the true meaning of that passage, and she whispered it to herselfsurprised she remembered it
Come, you spirits that tend on mortal thoughts, unsex me here, and fill me from the crown to the toe top-full of direst cruelty! Make thick my blood; stop up the access and passage to remorse, that no compunctious visitings of nature shake my fell purpose, nor keep peace between the effect and it! Come to my womans breasts, and take my milk for gall you murdering ministers, wherever in your sightless substances you wait on natures mischief! Come, thick night, and pall thee in the dunnest smoke of hell, that my keen knife see not the wound it makes, nor heaven peep through the blanket of the dark, to cry Hold, hold!
It was time.
Gentry I have to say, Im impressed you really are such a good boy toeing your fathers line I didnt think youd listen to anyone thought you were your own man but I guess everyone has someone theyre afraid of that the cow-tow to
He swung around and stalked closer to her, where she was sitting on her mattress. What the fuck are you talking about Im my own man Im not afraid of my father!
Oh, OK.. OK.. sorry I didnt mean to offend its just never mind
Never mind what? WHAT?!
Well, its obvious that youve had some particular activities in mind when it comes to me there was that night in the car, and then these past few days and, well, look at you now she looked pointedly at his erection. Yet you scurry to get dressed as soon as you hear him coming hes got you right where he wants you I mean, do you really believe hes going to share me with you? I mean, maybe eventually, but right away? Dont you think hell take his turn or turns first?
She could see him getting more and more agitated and then, holding her breath, reminding herself she needed this to happen in some crazy sense wanted it to happen she went in for the kill, But, hey, its all right with me.. I prefer men over boys anyway
As she had both hoped and feared, he snapped and in a second he was on her and she was lying flat on the bed under his crushing weight. Oh, yeah, bitch maybe I should just take a little now, then get mine and then he can have as much as he wants while I laugh behind his back and youre not going to tell him or I will make sure I hurt you worse than youve ever been hurt in your life yeah... lets have a little fun, Buchanan.
He pulled off her only so he could yank her underwear down so they were by her ankles over her ankle cuffs and again she swallowed hard and reminded herself that she wanted this, though she hoped the worst wouldnt happen. That it could be kept within some boundaries. He shoved her legs apart roughly and then he pushed a finger inside her and she couldnt help a small yelp of pain.
Shit Buchanan! You are dry as a desert like fucking sand paper I cant fuck you yet, youd shred the skin off my dick Im going to have to spend a bit of time elsewhere to get you wet, baby
Natalie held her breath a second and then said, Well last time when you well, my breasts are very sensitive
Oh, yeah? Did you like that then? I thought you did I knew it you were just playing you like it rough!
He pushed her bra up off her breasts and he leered at her and smirked as he noticed the outline of his bite mark. Then his mouth was fastening on her left nipple. She felt the bile rising in her throat and she moaned in disgust but Gentry took it as pleasure and he briefly pulled his mouth away as he said, Thats right its good, right? She was thankful that his body was beside hers on the bed rather than on her, but then she felt his hand begin to make its way between her legs again and she knew she couldnt handle that so she whispered, No let me and then she pushed the fingers of her right hand inside herself. Gentry had pulled back to watch for a second and he said, Damn, thats HOT Buchanan! She forced herself to give him a little smile, and then his mouth was back on her breast.
When she thought he was fully involved in his activities she slowly moved both her hands to his head for a second as if to hold him in place as if to encourage him she held her breath for a second and then with lightening speed she wrapped the chains that dangled between her hand cuffs tightly around his neck and began to pull hard on them. He made a strangled sound and jerked back and then she wrapped them around in another loop and pulled as hard as she could to tighten them around him. His eyes were popping out of his head, his tongue hanging out as he moved his hands to the chains around his neck to try to loosen them but they were now doubly looped around him. Natalie managed to kneel on the mattress gaining even better leverage and Gentry must have realized he was truly in trouble now because he began to hit out at her, landing blows on her arms and chest, her face and head. She tried to ignore the pain of these blows as much as possible, and they didnt have the power they normally would because he was clearly losing consciousness. It took a good five minutes and Natalie had to harden everything within her to keep going to not give in and settle for him being unconscious. Finally his eyes rolled back in his head he took his last breath, and his bladder and bowels lost control and she kept well back from his filth.
She knew he was dead. She sucked in a deep breath that sounded like a sob and then tried to think of Lady Macbeth again. This is what she had trained for when necessary to be a duplicitous bitch and lure the bad guy to his peril. Well, she guessed shed passed that test. She unwrapped the chains from around his neck and used her feet to shove him off the bed, then she went over to his pants and grabbed the gun off the holster he had left attached to them.
Chapter 73
Fifteen minutes later Natalie heard Hawkins returning and took several calming breaths as she prepared herself for what came next. She knew she had some bruising wherever Gentry had hit her, and that would work to her favor. The hardest thing she had to do was leave her underwear half-removed, but she felt it would add to the punch of the scene. Then she huddled against the wall, away from the fluids that had left Gentrys body, and found she didnt have to fake the tears that began to fall, the shudders that started up though she then tried to clamp down some control so she wouldnt totally lose it.
Hawkins came bounding in half-shouting with excitement, They are less than 10 minutes away get ready! He stopped dead when he saw the state Natalie was in and barked, Whats wrong, what happened?! and she sobbed, He.. he.. he tri.. tri...tried to rape me Hawkins looked furious and his eyes sought Gentry and then he saw him, lying on the floor towards the end of the mattress and he wailed and rushed to him, turning him over and seeing instantly that he was dead. He screamed and turned towards Natalie with a look of such rage on his face that she quaked violently. He stood up and was practically gasping for breath and he turned to face her and said, You GODDAMN BITCH! YOU KILLED MY BOY!!!! MY BOY I am going to carve you into bits you filthy whore!
Hawkins grabbed the massive bowie knife from the holster on his belt and came charging towards her, and two seconds later Natalie pulled the gun from behind her and as a look of shock came over Hawkins face she shot him twice once through the head and the other through the heart for good measure. He dropped like a stone onto the floor.
John, Mason, Chase and the rest of their team were full of adrenalin because they knew they were moments away from the final cabin, and theyd seen subtle signs that they were on the right track. They were about to finalize their best avenue for approach into this trap when the two gunshots rang out and then they were running in a dead heat for the cabin, but shouting for Natalies classmates to stay back.
Natalie had dropped the gun from her shaking hands and then she pulled her panties up and her bra back over her breasts and sat with her back against the wall, her knees drawn up against her chest, and then she wrapped her arms around her legs and rested her head on her knees. She was rocking back and forth a little bit, trying to keep calm. She felt so many things, yet wondered if she should feel badly that she didnt feel worse about having just taken two lives. But she knew beyond a doubt that if she hadnt killed them there was a good chance that the blood of others she cared about would have been spilled. One or more of them could have been killed.
John got through the cabin door first and his eyes were wild as they tried to focus on something to find Natalie and they locked on her on the bed. He took one step toward her and then his eyes fell on the bodies the bodies!! of Hawkins and Gentry. He stepped around them and over to the mattress and she launched herself into his arms and he wrapped his around her, but while she was shaking, she wasnt crying.
Chase and Mason crashed into the room moments later and saw John holding Natalie and then they noticed the bodies of Hawkins and Gentry and were stunned speechless. They just stood there. Finally Chase found his voice, What happened?
Natalie pulled her head off Johns shoulder and she felt the need to stand up and get off that filthy mattress. She started to move and John helped her up and she walked over to Mason and Chase as John kept an arm around her. They all took in her battered appearance though they realized that overall she seemed strong.
This was a trap. They never intended to let me go they were going to kill you all.once I knew you were close they had some early warning systems set up I knew I had to do something, so I did
Chase thought, Clearly! to himself, but he needed details. Natalie, what exactly happened though? How did you take them both out?
Natalie started to play the details over in her mind and in a bit of a delayed reaction she started to tremble a bit. John could feel that and said, Lets sit and he guided her to one of the chairs at the table. They each took a seat, John remaining next to Natalie, and waited for her to speak.
Over the past couple of days, Gentry was becoming increasingly well, lets just say he wasnt happy about his dads order not to touch me. Hawkins left us alone a good bit so he could check on your progress and all and Gentry started to strip down every time he left uh he started toto gratify himself while he stood in front of me this last time, as soon as Hawkins left Gentry stripped down and he was so pumped up John, he had talked about killing you himself as soon as you were here they were going to kill all of you, or try, and I couldnt let that happen
What happened, Natalie? John asked gently.
He he started to attack me again. He didnt want to wait he figured his father would claim first first dibs he decided not to wait. So I bided my time and when when he wasnt exactly paying attention to me I wrapped my chains around his neck and I choked him as she said this she held up her cuffed wrists and the heavy chains dangled and clanged together.
The three men looked at her in shock. That would have taken both physical strength and intestinal fortitude. They also realized thats where her bruises had come from Gentry must have struck out as he fought for his life.
Mason asked with surprise obvious in his voice, But what made him snap finally? Just the fact that we were so close?
Natalie was quiet for a second and then she looked at Chase and asked, Can this next part be off the record?
Chase looked at her for a long moment and nodded.
Natalie started to talk again but knew she would never tell anyone everything that had happened how she had practically seduced him. I goaded him. I basically called him a coward for listening to his father and keeping his hands off me when it was clear that wasnt what he wanted. That his father was probably not going to be as willing to share as hed said or would take his turn first and, uh, that that was actually fine with me because I preferred a man over a boy
John asked in shock, Why would you do that? He could have hurt you very badly! How far were you willing to go?!
It was a risk I had to take! And I would have gone as far as I had to so I could get him in position to choke him. Their goal was to kill you and take me away. That was always their intent. And NONE of that was something I was just going to let happen. So I timed it outthe rest can be on the record when Gentry was dead I grabbed his gun from the pants he had tossed across the room. I left...I left my clothing askew and huddled on the mattress pretending to be almost hysterical Hawkins noticed me first and asked what happened, and I told him Gentry had tried to rape me then he noticed him went to him and saw he was dead. He flew into a rage and grabbed his bowie knife and came flying toward me, and I pulled the gun from behind my back and shot him twice once in the head and then in the heart. And then you were here
They were truly stunned, and then they realized they shouldnt have been. John himself had reminded them all that Natalie wasnt a civilian. She had, in fact, done exactly what shed been trained to do. What remained to be seen was how well she could live with it once reality really set in.
They talked a bit longer and then they found the keys to Natalies shackles and while she located her clothes Chase used the satellite phone to get the word out that Natalie was safe but that the coroner would be needed here to get the bodies of Hawkins and Gentry. They stayed to hand over the scene thankfully the coroner drove in and got there relatively quickly and it was almost 5pm when they were finally ready to head out. The jeep Hawkins had driven was no where in sight so they were going to have to leave on foot and by this time Nero, Rich, Bradford and Turner had come into the cabin and were shocked, too, at the turn of events. Chase suggested they hike for an hour or so and then set up camp they had two large tents and then they could finish up in about 2 hours tomorrow, making their way to the edge of the woods where they could be picked up. They were all just too tired to try it all tonight with darkness upon them.
The others got a bit of a head start while John and Natalie held back for a moment. He pulled Natalie close to him and she wrapped her arms around him. Natalie my heart had stopped beating through all of this I dont know what I would have done if Id lost you
I felt the same, thats why I had to do something I couldnt sit there and wait for them to try to kill you
Natalie, what you did was incredible but I hate the thought of you putting yourself in danger for me
Didnt you do that for me?
He couldnt argue with that, so he gave her a bone tight hug and then they caught up with the others. She flat out amazed him, rocked him to his very core, and he loved her with a fierceness hed never felt about anything or anyone. And she was safe. Back in his arms, and it never even occurred to him to try to hide what he was now feeling for her.
Chapter 74
By 8pm, two tents were pitched, a fire lit, and they had eaten some rations. They hung around the fire for a bit and passed a bottle of whiskey that Chase had snuck into his pack and then everyone was well and truly beat. Nero, Bradford, Turner and Rich took one tent, and John, Natalie, Mason and Chase crawled into the other all in separate sleeping bags though John and Natalie were towards one side of the large tent and Mason and Chase towards the other.
One by one the men fell asleep as evidenced by their different snores. None of them were particularly loud, just noticeable. Natalie couldnt sleep. She was feeling surges of energy run through her remaining adrenalin a bit of euphoria that she had emerged the victor in a life and death struggle awareness of John so close and yet so far she wanted to jump him. She realized she was totally, completely horny. She felt a bit embarrassed - was this normal? But then she didnt care. She peeked over towards Mason and Chase and saw they were still sleeping and in a decisive and bold move she left her own sleeping bag unzipped Johns and crawled in with him.
Johns eyes shot open and then he felt Natalies mouth close over his aggressively, her body on top of his. Of course he returned the kiss, his hands moving into her hair to deepen it, but he stiffened when he felt her hand trail down to begin undoing his pants.
He grabbed her hand and whispered, Natalie! We cant much as I want to we cant not here with them right over there
Theyre asleepwe can be quiet
He snorted a bit at that and she hissed, We can we can just kiss each other while we do it it wont take long please please please Johnplease
Her hands began to try to open his pants again and he grabbed them again and said, Natalie, shit youre killing me but we cant
Why?
Because!
But dont you want me? You feel like you do she said as she groped his manhood. God I want you John
Of course I do but were not alone
Natalie stretched her entire body along him and planted her open mouth on his as she ground her hips against his erection, capturing most of the noise he made.
Meanwhile, across the tent Mason and Chase were now both very much awake and trying to stifle their laughter. When they each realized the other was awake and laughing too that just made it harder. But Natalie and John didnt notice because she was intent on having him and he was trying to fight her off.
Finally John could take no more there was only so much control he had, and it was virtually nil with regard to Natalie and way less than that once she had her mouth and body on him. He rolled her underneath him as quietly as possible and very adeptly opened her pants and yanked them and her underwear totally off her body so they were in a ball at the end of his bag. Her hands joined his in opening his pants and they shoved them down to his ankles using a combination of hands and her feet and just seconds after he roughly claimed her mouth he drove into her until he was buried inside her. Her gasp and moan vibrated down his throat. He pushed her arms over her head, his hands on hers as their fingers intertwined, gripping hard, and then his mouth was plundering hers as their hips rutted against each other, meeting each other forcefully. It took only 8-10 deep, sharp thrusts and then they were climaxing together, pouring sounds into each others mouths as they remained fused together. Finally their mouths parted and they panted as quietly as possible into the crooks of each others necks as John collapsed on top of her and their arms and hands remained intertwined above their heads.
A moment later, in the dark, Mason said with a chuckle, Well thank God. Shit McBain, if youd denied the poor girl any longer I was about to volunteer for a mission of mercy!
Chase snickered beside Mason as Natalie gasped, Oh my GOD! and John just groaned.
Then Chase said, Aw, dont worry Buchanan we all understand ask any guy after a big operation like that a major takedown or bust making it out alive we all are total horn-dogs I just had no idea that you gals had the same reaction. See, this is exactly why it IS good to have women in the program we all get to learn things about each other see were not so different By this time Chase was having a hard time containing his laughter, Mason had long ago lost that battle and even John was chuckling.
The word mortification was no where near close enough to describing how Natalie felt at that moment, yet shed be a total liar if she said she was now sorry she had jumped John. She squeaked out, Sorry if I disturbed your sleep and the three men laughed some more. Making this all the more awkward was the fact that John was still inside her and she was highly aware of that, even if their bodies were shielded from view by the sleeping bag and cover of darkness. John finally moved off her and turned her on her side so he could scoot in behind her, holding her close. No sense in her going back to her bag at this point.
Eventually Chase and Mason were asleep again but John and Natalie were not so lucky. They were hyper aware of each other that fast coupling had only whet their appetites and Johns hardness was prominent against Natalies backside. She ground back against him and then she felt him lift her right leg and she knew what was coming. She turned her head to bite down on his left arm, which was around her, and then he was entering her from behind, and biting down on her neck to silence his own moan. Very slowly, deliberately, deliciously he made love to her, finishing her off when he moved his hand between her legs and massaged her near where he was moving in and out of her. When she clamped on him her walls and her mouth her teeth that dragged him over the edge. When they had calmed a little they turned to face each other and enjoyed long minutes of kissing there was something so deeply satisfying about making out even after having possessed each other much more intimately. Finally, after whispering of their love for each other, they fell asleep wrapped around each other.
Chapter 75
Not surprisingly in the middle of the night Natalies dreams turned violent they held horrifying scraps of memory and dream-state extrapolation, but she saw, heard and felt Gentry, Hawkins saw Gentrys eyes bulging Hawkins coming at her with his knife and in her dream she felt his knife plunge into her chest and then she bolted upright into a sitting position, screaming in terror. The men in her tent, and the one next door, where jolted out of their own sleep and then realized what was going on. By then John had grabbed her close and was rocking her saying, Wake up shhh its just a dream just a dream Natalie was relieved to be awake to realize she had only been dreaming but she was shaking almost violently. She refused to cry, though. She just wouldnt. They didnt deserve her tears they had targeted her and hurt her planned to do even worse to her than they had. Planned to kill the man she loved her friends.
No one was surprised by this turn of events theyd expected it. Chase got out of his bag and reached for his sack, pulling out the whiskey again. He opened it and handed it to John with a nod and then John moved it to Natalies mouth and held her head as she tipped it back to let some of the liquid pour down her throat, warming her. Then she snuggled back against John, starting to calm.
Mason watched this and was glad he had checked his initial instinct when hed heard her cry out, which was to go to her and comfort her he laughed privately at how developed his protective streak of her had become. Hed probably always have it to some extent.
Rich, Nero, Bradford and Turner had come into the tent to see what was going on. Without letting any reactions play across their features they each took note of a number of things. Natalie was in Johns sleeping bag with him, and peaking out of the bottom of the unzipped bag were what appeared to be her jeans which made sense given the flash of bare leg they could see where the sleeping bag was unzipped. They were clinging to each other with a familiarity and a clear emotional attachment that had obviously not just sprung up. And, neither Mason nor Chase seemed to be reacting to any of this themselves. None of them were entirely surprised since theyd all noted there seemed to be SOMETHING developing between the two at minimum an obvious attraction. But they were surprised by the depth it seemed to have when and where had that happened? They finally all settled on the same conclusion nothing to see here and they wished Natalie well and turned back to their own tent, not saying a word to each other about what theyd seen.
Everyone fell back asleep for several more hours. John and Natalie were the first to awake and after sharing a gentle good morning kiss realized theyd better put their pants back on before they had to do so in front of Chase and Mason in the full light of day. Natalie still felt a lingering embarrassment at having been caught in the act, but there was nothing to be done about it now.
They got up to rekindle the fire and make coffee, enjoying the bracing air. It actually would be a nice day for a hike, especially because they could all take their time it wasnt a race against the clock.
The smell of coffee roused the rest of the gang and soon everyone was stretching and savoring that first hot sip. Natalie could feel everyones glances falling on her intermittently to see how she was holding up, and she also knew her bruises had probably gotten a bit worse. Shed gotten so accustomed to having some sort of injuries on her body or face that it didnt even faze her any more.
About an hour later they broke camp and hiked towards the rendezvous point a couple of vehicles would be waiting to take them back to Quantico. Chase had been informed that news was breaking that two people had been killed in a stand-off involving the FBI, but a tight lid was being kept on any other details they were going to claim national security as the reason why there would be no additional information forthcoming. Natalie had also made it clear that she had no intention of informing her family, at least not at this point. Maybe when she was totally done with the program
At one point along the way Natalie ended up walking with Mason, a bit out of earshot from everyone else, and she couldnt help feeling like she owed him some sort of apology.
Mason about last night
He looked at her with a smirk and she blushed. Yeah?
Well, I feel badly like I owe you an apology or somethingYouve been so great about John and me, and then I went and rubbed your face in it I didnt mean that I didnt think
Buchanan, I doubt you were thinking about anything and I understand I know how you get he said with a chuckle that turned into a laugh when he saw how red she got as she remembered how she had often lost control with him
Mason I
Natalie, honestly, its fine. I have nothing but fond memories, and a true affection for you. And, if it makes you feel any better well, Ive started to see someone that I actually find myself liking quite a lot
Really? Do tell!
Well, Im taking a page out of McBains book and seeing someone who reports to me so dont tell on me! Shes a great attorney named Angela Mauro. She reminds me a lot of you - shes smart and a good person. Shes a very capable professional whos not on the prowl for a meal-ticket so well see how it goes
Im so glad maybe some day, when this program is over if it isnt too weird we could all go out to dinner or something
You know, that could probably work
They finally made it back to Quantico by around noon. Chase had sent word through the various agents/instructors whod led the other candidates in the search for Natalie to have them all meet at The Pub private room again that night at 8pm. Mason was invited as well, and he accepted the invitation then beat a hasty retreat to his place to get cleaned up, check in with his office sleep a bit
John and Natalie returned to their apartment this time with no agents as bodyguards. As soon as they got into the living room John pulled Natalie close and she sighed deeply she loved his hugs. He then led them to the couch where they sat, half facing each other, his arm along the back of the couch behind her.
So how are you? How are you really?
Is it strange for me to be able to say that Im doing pretty OK?
No not strange
It is a very sobering experience to kill someone. I hope I can live the rest of my life without ever having to do something like that again. But, even before I pushed to get into this program I was in law enforcement. It was always a possibility that Id have to take a life at some point. And those two to me they werent human. They were animals. And, John, they were going to KILL you! Her voice broke on those last words and tears welled in her eyes.
John cupped her face in his hands and said softly, the emotion choking his own voice, Thank you for saving my life you risked so much
I love you, John I had to
I love you, too, Natalie.
They kissed softly and then Natalie asked, Now that Hawkins and Gentry are no longer a threat am I going to have to move back to the dorm? She sounded so sad when she asked that question.
Im not sure, Natalie. Im certainly not going to ask the question, he laughed when he said this. Im sure Chase will let us know soon enough but we have right now lets not waste it
Over the course of the next 6-7 hours, between naps and a quick bite of lunch, John and Natalie made love on the couch, in the tub, in bed and in the shower as they got ready to meet everyone else at the pub. They had a voracious hunger for each other that only seemed to increase every time they fed it. Some of it was fueled by the angst of what they had been through, and the deep feelings they now had, but they had also completely mastered the art of making love to each other bringing each other pleasure and they just let themselves inhabit that magic place as much as they could, knowing a roadblock might be around the corner.
John had to remind himself not to hold Natalies hand or put his arm around her as they walked into the pub. He really was forgetting that they were supposed to have a formal line, some distance between them.
When Natalie walked in her classmates and everyone else in The Pub began applauding. Word had gotten around campus and while not everyone knew every detail, they knew enough and wanted to get a look at this tiny but formidable warrior. Natalie waved shyly, accepted hugs from her friends, and then they all headed into the private room where Mason and Chase were waiting for them all.
Chase had arranged for quite a spread and Italian buffet, plenty of drinks and let everyone eat, mill about, enjoy their time, celebrate their victory Natalie sat with Turner, Bradford, Nero and Rich, while John sat with some of the other candidates so he could thank them for their own efforts. Mason hung with Chase. About an hour into the celebration Chase finally asked for their attention.
All right everyone Im just going to take a moment of your time and then let you get back to the fun I just wanted to tell you how proud I am of all of you. You all logged some long hours trudging through rough terrain in the search to find your comrade. It is clear your training kicked in and I know we are all so thankful for the successful result of this effort. Which brings me directly to candidate Buchanan. What I am about to say MUST stay in this room, between this close-knit group. Under duress in a situation fraught with emotion where she was clearly in danger at the hands of two men, one of whom was a trained and deadly CIA operative she managed to lean against her training to bide her time and plan and then to flawlessly execute that plan so that she single-handedly took out both of her enemies. In doing so she spared the rest of us from injury and likely saved at least some of our lives. Buchanan, you were truly a marvel and know that your peers here know that, even if it has to be swept under the rug
Natalie broke in for a second, saying I just want to thank all of you for everything. Not just for the past few days, but ever since ever since Gentry first attacked me, and I had to get special protection and you all went the extra mile to keep an eye out for meyou have made me feel like a total part of your team, and Ill never be able to tell you how grateful I am
Chase smiled at Natalie and then continued, I had a chat with the Director and we have come to a decision we think youll like. We agreed that you had gained some great experience from these past days in the field, and that that should count for something. So we decided you deserved some impromptu liberty.
A cheer went up.
For those whove lost track of time, its Friday evening. Starting well, now you are free until Tuesday at noon.
In testament to how close the group had gotten, they all remained for the balance of the evening, though a few pulled out cell phones to begin making plans. Natalie spent some more time talking with her friends and made a point to catch up with Nick because she knew hed never quite gotten over the fact that hed let Gentry manipulate the situation so that he left her in his clutches. He was so thrilled she had taken him down.
Eventually Natalie ended up talking with Mason again and he was aware that some of her classmates were giving them a look. Dont look now, but I think some of your mates are still trying to figure out if theres something going on with us though at least a handful no thats absolutely not the case since they caught you half-naked in McBains sleeping bag
Natalie punched him in his massive bicep and said, Do you take endless delight in embarrassing me?
Well, it is fun. And our deal from the beginning has always been to be open and honest no embarrassmentsay anything do anything though I guess we have had to pull back on the do anything thing
You are evilbut you do make me laugh, she said as she did just that.
Hopefully not at my shortcomings
Natalie snorted and said, hardly! to which he raised an eyebrow and then she had to just giggle at him.
You are in such a good and ribald mood whats gotten into you.. OH! Wait a minute you didnt happen to make a pit stop on your way here maybe pay a visit to the lovely Angela?
Mason laughed and said, Guilty as charged!
At that moment John walked up and he and Mason smirked a bit at each other when John almost slipped and put his arms around Natalie, catching himself at the last moment. Which was a good thing because more eyes were on this trio than anywhere else in the room. John inquired, Whats so amusing?
Natalie replied, Well, Mason here was telling me about a special new person in his life whom he just happened to spend some quality time with this afternoon
Oh, I see said John with a smile and he was genuinely glad for Mason because he seemed happy. Some quality time huh?
Mason laughed and winked and said, Well, lets just say we may have spent our time the same way as you two this afternoon and on that note, I am going to head out because I promised Angela Id drop in on my way home
John and Natalie laughed and then Mason shook Johns hand, gave Natalie a tight hug good-bye and took his leave.
John and Natalie spent a bit more time talking with Chase as the rest of the class filtered out, saying their good-byes as they went off to plan for this unexpected liberty. Chase finally wished John and Natalie well and gave her a quick hug while telling her how proud he was of her and then John and Natalie were left to walk back to their apartment, totally relieved Chase had said nothing about their living arrangements.
They were surprised to see it was almost midnight when they got into the apartment. It had certainly been an action-packed day, and now they knew they had 3 days of freedom ahead of them.
So, Buchanan how do you want to spend your liberty?
Well I really liked how I spent the last one with the obvious exception of the police bursting in
John laughed and said, Well, Im glad and selfish bastard that I am I was hoping youd want to spend it with me, but I was going to be mature about it if you decided you wanted to see your family
No Ill be seeing them soon enough at Christmas and speaking of do you know what youre doing?
Well, my brother sent me an email seeing if I wanted to come to Llanview hes talked my mom into heading there since shell be on a break from her singing tour....
Really? Well, wow, this could be even better see, I was thinking and you can turn me down flat if you think itd be too much but well, maybe you and Michael and now your mother would want to have Christmas dinner with me with my family
John was touched and a bit overwhelmed. You guys have quite the crowd, huh?
Yes, I wont lieit can be a bit overwhelming but Id love for them to meet you and vice versa but I dont want to pressure you
John took both of Natalies hands in his, I dont feel pressured, Natalie. And Id love to meet your family get to know them. I just hope they dont want to shoot me coming out of left field and being your instructor and all
Well, double check with Michael and your mother if theyd rather have a quiet dinner then maybe you guys could come for dessert Id just miss you if I didnt get to see you
Thats not going to happen were going to be together then, and hopefully in a few seconds in our bed He claimed her lips at that and then picked her up to carry her to the bedroom. He put her down and they began undressing each other and he said, Tomorrow we can head back home to the house
Great and she lost all other train of thought as he led her to bed.
The next morning they headed to the house and by mid-morning were making some loose plans for the weekend. John was smiling practically all the time and Natalie said, Whats gotten into you, McBain youre usually a bit more serious than this
Well, lets see, the woman I love is here with me, totally safe the lunatics that were hunting her down are no longer a threat thanks to her Rambo skills and we have three days to spend together not having to hide out
She smiled back and said, Well, it doesnt get more perfect, does it?
He looked at her intently and smiled a different sort of smile and then said, Youre going to think Ive lost my mind, but I just thought of something so out of the blue that I think we should do
What?
He walked up to her and whispered in her ear and saw a huge smile her biggest ever take over her face. She grabbed his hand and said, Lets go!
Chapter 77
Sunday morning, the sunlight was streaming in the windows and Natalie woke up to the warmth of it on her face and the feeling of Johns arms around her. She smiled and then felt the need to stretch and as she did so she became aware of Johns eyes on her.
You know I love to watch you do that
She smiled at him and lay back down on the bed so she could face him. They looked at each other for a moment and then Johns hand moved under her hair to the back of her head so he could draw her mouth to his. He plied her mouth with a languid, soul-stirring, toe-curling kiss and then he pulled back and said, Good morning, Mrs. McBain
Natalie literally felt her stomach flip when he said that and she smiled at him as a few tears gathered in her eyes I love how that sounds, you have no idea
Oh, I think I do in fact, Im sure of it
They kissed some more and then broke apart again so they could smile at each other they couldnt seem to stop.
Thank you for marrying me, Natalie.
Well, thank you for asking
So, heres the thing we can stay here in Vegas a bit longeror we can head to the airport and catch the next flight back and we can spend at least a day and a night in our own home our own bedbefore we have to go back to Quantico
Well, how about we stay here just a little bit longer so I can make love one more time to my husband and then we can go home
Deal Buch- uh oh, I guess I cant call you that any more
Darn
They began to kiss each other passionately, the heat between them growing, and John felt an overwhelming desire to be inside his wife. He whispered softly in her ear, I dont think I can wait, Natalie
She whispered hotly against his mouth, Then dont
As their mouths melded again he moved between her legs, which she had opened wide for him, and then he sank into her waiting heat. Soon they were in perfect rhythm, her hands on his ass to guide him, his hands under hers to tilt her to the perfect angle, and they drew back from their devastating kiss so they could look at each other. There was such intensity in their eyes, such emotion, but neither felt any need for artifice for a shieldthey were safe with each other completely bonded Their gasps and moans grew louder, their eyes took on a richer hue, the cloud of passion, and then the heated proof of their passion pooled together where their bodies met, where the friction and possession had led them to a heart-stopping simultaneous release.
John held Natalie for a long while as their breathing returned to normal. Then he whispered softly, I didnt think it was possible for that to get any better but somehow knowing youre my wife Im your husband we totally belong to each other
Im so happy John and so in love with you
Then let me take you home I want to be there with you
With the time difference and travel time it was pretty late when they pulled in the driveway. They sat for a second and looked at each other, their eyes saying everything. John picked up Natalies hand and rubbed his thumb over the simple platinum band that was now on her finger and he said, Tomorrow were going to go out and buy a proper ring for you
John, this ones perfect
Itll always have sentimental value, but I want to take you shopping for something that will carry you through the years now, lets go inside.
Natalie had barely put her feet on the ground when they were off it again because John had scooped her up to carry her. He put her down just inside the door and then said, Welcome home, Mrs. McBain
Natalie collapsed into his arms and said, Home I love home then she pulled back and looked at him, asking, Do you want to take a bath with me?
Lead the way lead the way
In short order the bath was filled with fragrant bubbles and water, candles lit, and John began to undress Natalie. She was so turned on when she felt him take charge and pull her clothes from her body when he opened her bra and slide it off her arms and his hand and mouth moved onto her breasts... and she felt her knees grow weak at the decisive way he removed the final scrap of silk that was already growing moist by the time he got thereShed had her eyes closed as he helped support her and she sighed out a shaky John when she was finally naked. He had watched her feelings of arousal play over her face could feel her body tremble a bit and her breath hitch in her throat He pulled her to him to kiss her deeply and she moaned when her sensitive nipples met the wool of his sweater she finally pulled away and said, You have too many clothes on
Together they removed his clothes and then stood admiring each other as always the sight of each others naked bodies heated their blood. Natalie wound her arms around Johns neck while his banded around her back and they kissed deeply for a few moments, until Natalie pressed her stomach against his erection and they broke apart, their eyes now hazed over. He picked her up and stepped into the tub and sat down with his back against the end of it. He positioned her so she was sitting in the V of his legs, her back against his chest, and she leaned against him as his arms encircled her. They both let out sighs that were full of contentment and relief.
I cant believe were here, John this all happened so fast so unexpected but it I just knew, for me it was so right
I know maybe when everything around you is knocking you for a loop, you dont have time to put up defenses you see things feel things clearly. Im just so glad you didnt listen to me when I tried to say this might all have been contextual
Yeah, what was THAT about? she laughed.
Honestly, I was trying to protect myself. I already knew that I had real and significant feelings for you but I found it hard to believe that you could feel that way for me, so I figured
Well, I did, even then. And I thought you might for me, too.
What was your first clue? he smiled.
They all just built up over time little things where it felt like we bonded. I felt so close to you that day in your office, when you asked me about when when Id been raped, and then you told me about Caitlin but, I guess I started to realize there was something bigger the first weekend you brought me here especially that kiss we shared just before we left here. My heart was so full I thought it would burst, and I felt something FROM you, too, not just for you
That was when I let myself know you were in my heart that weekend. You had fallen asleep on the couch in my den and as I watched you I felt so much, Natalie. It floored me scared me but I couldnt kid myself it was real. Still, even after the foxhole, I was going to try to live up to our deal and then I saw you walk into Rodis
And it was Kermit! The both giggled at that
Natalie said, That foxhole thing wow. That blew me away it was HOT she was laughing as she said it and then continued, It was like wed lost our damn minds
Hadnt we? I know I had that whole week leading up to it, when we were forced to be apart and then that fight we had in front of everyone
Yeah, that raised a few eyebrows
So you liked the foxhole, huh?
Yeah I did! John, Ive loved it all sometimes you, well you TAKE me with such force and I crave it and then others when I finally started to let you you are so gentle yet still so well it all ends up with me a quivering mess
I love to turn you into a quivering mess you do a number on me, too, you know
Well, what kind of number are you interested in tonight?
Do I have to pick just one? John said as he kissed the nape of her neck and she trembled at that touch,
Uh, no not at all, let me re-phrase what do you want to start with?
In response John moved his right hand to her left jaw and tilted her head so he could kiss her deeply, and as their tongues mated his left hand made its way through the water, between her legs, two fingers pushed inside her moist heat and she let out a deep moan. As John ground his fingers inside Natalie she ground her ass back against his hardness, and he knew that was going to do him in more quickly than he wanted. He removed his hand and his mouth from her and then moved her so she was sitting on the edge of the tub, at the other end. He knelt between her legs and she closed her eyes and leaned her head back against the wall in anticipation she didnt have to wait long. His mouth moved to her center, his tongue massaging between her folds, lathing her clit causing her hips to buck and a cry to escape her and then plunging deep inside her tight passage. He held her hips tightly in place as he continued the exquisite movement of his mouth over her.
Natalie felt like there wasnt a bone left in her body and she couldnt help the moans and whimpers that endlessly poured from her. He was creating such an ache between her legs she thought shed die of it, and when he suddenly moved his mouth to her clit, gently nibbling on it while he plunged two fingers inside, she came with such a sudden force that she screamed John! as her whole body writhed at the sensation.
John savored the feeling of Natalie convulsing around his fingers for a moment and then he plucked her off the side of the tub and slid her down onto his straining manhood, holding his breath at the sensations of her tight walls clutching at the entire engorged length of him as their bodies joined together. She was continuing to spasm around him, her breath coming in pants, and he moved his hands to her ass to guide her movements, to make her ride him with purpose. Her body instinctively obeyed his hands even though each movement of her hips caused her almost painful torture because of her continued climax but soon she felt it building up again as her body took him into its depths over and over, as he bucked his own hips to deepen his claim on her.
John was at his end and he brought her moaning mouth to his and the passionate dueling of their tongues caused the final explosion. Natalie felt the warm gush of his release spread through her body and her already quivering muscles contracted almost violently at this suffusion and they clung to each other as their bodies writhed from the overwhelming sensations. John pulled Natalies mouth off his and he took her face in both of his hands, I love you Natalie God I love you, he rasped.
I love you too Then they were kissing again until every aftershock had calmed.
The water suddenly felt very cool against their over-heated skin. They got out of the tub, their legs a bit rubbery, and dried each other off. Then they headed into their bed and held each other closely, falling into what they knew would just amount to a nap this night was far from over
Chapter 78
Natalie and John slept in luxuriously late until about 10 am, which was highly unusual. But they had had a crazy couple of days flying to and from Las Vegas, not to mention getting married. Then, of course, they hadnt slept much when they were in bed. But finally they had crashed around 3am, and had been so warm and cozy together. It was actually the phone ringing that woke them up, and John reached for it.
Hello he rasped sleepily.
John its Chase.
Oh, hi Chase, whats up?
I was wondering if I could come by and talk to you and Natalie Ill pick up sandwiches
John had a feeling he knew what was coming but he was as friendly as possible when he said, Sure and well take you up on the sandwich offer what, about noon?
Great see you soon.
What did he want?
Well, he knew you were here no surprise. He wants to talk to both of us. Im assuming its about our living arrangements our need to keep things toned down even though more than a few people have figured things out
Its to be expected and I think we are right in our decision not to let anyone know were married until after the program is over itll be hard, though. I guess Id better take this off now you too she said as she pointed to their wedding rings.
John took her hand and kissed her ring, saying, Im still taking you out later to buy you another one we can keep them here in the safe, but well know
She smiled and said, Well, now Im going to say something straight out of a chick flick but I feel married to you in my heart rings are nice, but I dont need them. The hardest thing will be not being able to do this we are going to have to sneak off again sometimes. At least I wont have a security detail with me to evade
They quickly got showered and dressed, and waited for Chase and Natalie couldnt help feel a bit nervous like she was being sent to the principals office or something. Finally the doorbell rang and John went to get it while she made sure the table was set OK.
Chase came in and gave her a genuine smile and a hug, which surprised her but she returned sincerely as well. He had brought a huge bag of sandwiches a number of selections and then they were sitting and eating. Chase updated them on the fall-out from the Hawkins situation. The CIA had passed along an apology, while also, of course, disavowing all knowledge of everything but Chase got the feeling they were glad to be rid of the problem. They had also made a cagey inquiry as to whether Natalie would have any interest in joining them, and she shook her head emphatically.
Finally, he was ready to address the proverbial elephant in the room. OK guys, Im going to speak directly and you can feel free to do the same. He smirked when he said, I guess theres no use in anyone trying to deny theres something going on between the two of you John and Natalie smiled as well. Off the record Im really pleased for you two on the record instructors and students arent supposed to get involved. Now, Natalie, your performance has been so top-notch that we shouldnt run into anybody trying to say youve gotten special treatment beyond what was critical because of safety concerns. Plus, all your classmates have the utmost respect for you. But, optics count. So, Natalie, tomorrow you have to move back into the dorm, and John, youll return to your previous apartment. Beyond that use your judgment and your self-control He smiled again as he said this and they joined along.
Chase stayed a bit longer to talk they actually all enjoyed each others company and then he was gone.
OK Mrs. McBain lets go ring shopping
John and Natalie headed to a small, upscale jewelry store about thirty minutes away. John had gotten to know Sam on one of his first cases and theyd stayed in touch. He was surprised clearly pleasantly so when he saw John walk in, and totally thrilled when he learned of the reason.
Oh, Mrs. McBain such a pleasure to meet you and we will find the perfect ring for you!
Please, call me Natalie
Ah, Natalie you are a beautiful woman, I am so happy for you both
Sam studied Natalie carefully for a bit, and asked her about herself, what sorts of clothes she liked to wear, hobbies, etc. He was a firm believer that different rings went with different personalities. He also asked her if she wanted to have two rings a solitaire and a band or just a single ring that packed enough punch (shed laughed when he said that). She realized she only wanted one.
Finally they settled on something she thought was truly gorgeous, but only after lots of strong-arming by John since she kept gravitating towards much less significant and cheaper rings. He had taken her aside and said, Natalie I promise you that you are not going to break the bank on me this is a big deal to me. I never thought Id fall in love again and Ive never felt this way about anyone before. This YOU are it for me. I want to give you something that befits that
She felt her eyes well up with tears as he said that, and he brushed them away as he gave her a gentle kiss.
Natalies ring was perfect for her. It was a three-diamond ring princess cut with a two-carat stone in the center and one-carat stones on either side. It was set in platinum which went perfectly with the simple platinum band that they had picked up in Las Vegas. John had a matching one which he had put back on immediately after Chase had left.
They went and had coffee, popped into a small dress shop so Natalie could get something for the evening they were going back to Neros for dinner and then headed home. Natalie napped on the couch in the den while John caught up on some work this had become a favorite practice of theirs and he found himself looking up at her more than at his computer screen. He didnt know how he was going to hide his feelings for her from anyone, and didnt much care.
A bit later they went upstairs to get dressed. This time John wore black trousers, a black sport coat and a crisp white shirt no tie. Natalie was dressed in black as well, in a gorgeous cashmere dress that was like an oversized v-neck cardigan that fell just above her knee. Sheer black stockings encased her legs, and sleek black pumps and diamond stud earrings completed the look. She was about to grab her pashmina to leave when John stopped her.
I have something that I think will be the perfect finishing touch then he pulled out a jewelry box from behind his back.
John, what is this? You already bought me the most amazing and important piece of jewelry today
Well, this is a wedding gift Sam and I managed to pull this off when you ran to the restroom
She opened the box and gasped. Inside was a gorgeous diamond necklace it was a circle of diamonds, an infinity necklace, set in platinum and hanging on a delicate platinum chain.
Oh, its beautiful honestly beautiful
John took it and put it on her, and kissed the nape of her neck over the clasp. Ready?
One second, she said. Then she took his face in both of her hands and stood on tip-toe to give him the most tender kiss she could. She pulled back and looked at him, saying, I love you John McBain.
He caressed her cheek and said, Right back at you. Then they left for Neros.
Chapter 79
The Neros were happy to see John and Natalie again, and Gina Neros eagle eye noticed Natalies gorgeous ring, and when she saw Johns band she practically squealed with delight. You were MARRIED since you were last here? John and Natalie were quiet for a second and then they just smiled and nodded and were swooped into hugs by both Gina and her husband Lou.
They were once again led to the secluded table they had enjoyed so much before. Then Gina said, Im going to send my nephew over with a bottle of champagne for you to celebrate we are so happy for you!
John and Natalie settled in beside each other and he put his arm along the back of the banquette and pulled her into a kiss, which was interrupted by the clattering, crashing sound of glasses, a bottle and tray falling to the floor.
They broke apart and turned to see an absolutely flabbergasted Sal Nero standing there, and Natalie felt her blood run cold. How could she they not have made the connection?
Gina and Lou had run over to see what was going on and Gina said, Sal, what happened, did you trip?
Uh, yeah Ill go get a fresh set, so sorry he ran off presumably to do that, and Gina and Lou apologized, cleaned up and left them alone.
Natalie leaned her elbows on the table and her face in her hands and groaned, saying, What are we going to do? John put his hand on her shoulder and said, Well have to talk to him I cant believe I never even thought there could be a connection its not an uncommon name, and Ive never ever seen him here before
Sal Nero came back over and stood quietly for a moment, then John gestured for him to take a seat. No one said anything for a moment and then John said, I would imagine youre as surprised about seeing us together as we are seeing you Ive never seen you here before
Well, Lou and my father are brothers and I hadnt seen them in a while, and when the unexpected liberty came up, well it seemed like a good opportunity especially since they were so close by and I was craving some good food
Silence again.
Natalie figured she should say something he was a friend of hers at this point. Sal I know that you and Rich, Bradford and Turner noticed that John and I had become close when you when I had that bad dream and you all came into our tent well, we have we are close. It wasnt anything planned just sort of happened. And we did spur of the moment we did go off and get married this weekend, but our intention was to keep it a secret until after the program ended to keep us a secret Ill live back in the dorm like normal keep our distance
John broke in, Well understand if you dont feel you can keep this quiet. We wont put you on the spot. Clearly we have broken a lot of rules by starting a relationship, let alone getting married and, well, I guess Ive put Natalie in the most jeopardy because people can say she passed due to favoritism or something or try to claim that
Nero looked from one to the other and then he smiled a genuine smile at them. Look, this is a total surprise. Yeah, we noticed that you two had something going on when we saw you in the tent and truth be told, most of the class and instructors could see that you guys were clicking. But I have to say, you did a great job in hiding just how much because it seemed like you hadnt acted on it But to be honest, Im really happy for you you kick ass Buchanan and no one can say you didnt earn your way through everything you had to go through more than any of us. And, Agent McBain, I dont know you as well, but you have always been fair and if Natalie thinks youre a good guy I will have no trouble keeping youre secret from everyone.
John and Natalie expelled a breath and thanked him. Then Nero said with a smirk and a twinkle in his eye, No problem and maybe me knowing could be of help I can provide some cover for you if you need to try to get together or something claim to go on a long run with Buchanan here or something because if I were a newlywed Id fuckin hate to have my wife across campus in a dorm and never get to see her alone and on that note, Im going to open this champagne and take my leave tomorrow is back to reality.
Nero popped and poured the champagne, then he shook Johns hand and gave Natalie a quick peck on the cheek. They laughed when he left mostly with relief.
I believe him, John. Hell keep our secret.
I believe him, too. We really dodged a bullet with this one. But at the end of the day, I figure we can handle it, whatever fall-out there is if anyone else finds out.
They managed to enjoy themselves and let the Neros take a commemorative photo of them which, of course, would be handled very discreetly. They even enjoyed a few dances before they realized that what they really wanted to be was home alone. This was their last night tomorrow morning they had to head back to Quantico.
While Natalie poured some cabernet for them, John took off his jacket and lit the fire, and they let that provide the only light in the room. He went to a hall closet and pulled out a large red and black plaid wool blanket and spread it in front of the fire, then grabbed some of the large floor pillows to further soften their nest. Then they stretched out together in front of the fire, close together, leaning against the cushions and sipping their wine.
I wish we had more time here, John, before we had to go back
Me too but, we will still see each other, and Im determined that we will find some opportunities to, well REALLY be together he said this with a smile which she returned.
They put their wine glasses down and held each other close, watching the flickering flames of the fire and the dancing shadows they created on the walls. Natalie let out a deep sigh and John asked, Youre not falling asleep on me, are you?
No Im just so relaxed and happy and relaxed there has been so much craziness, and, well, peace is underrated. Who the hell needs excitement?
John caressed the back of her neck and said in a low voice, Well, some types of excitement are more enticing than others
She felt her breath catch and a twinge between her legs when he said that and she whispered, Oh, what types are you talking about?
Well, for example, the way it feels when I am as hard and thick as Ive ever been, and you open yourself to me and even after all the times Ive been so welcomed, it feels like its brand new because no matter how wet Ive made you until that point, no matter how accustomed youre bodys become to mine, I can still feel it change shape to make room for me the way your body hugs mine every time thats exciting, Natalie
Natalie had closed her eyes when he was talking because his voice was like the most seductive caress. When he finished speaking she opened them and met his gaze and he was blown away by the desire he saw in hers. He reached for her and their arms wrapped around each other her body ended up lying on top of his and then they were kissing almost in slow motion, as if to make sure that their mouths bonded as deeply as possible, and that their tongues explored every bit of each other. Natalie felt her heart pounding in reaction to his kiss and she was glad she was already lying down because surely she would have fallen had she been standing.
John gently pushed Natalie so she was lying on her back and her eyes never left his face. He moved his hands to the buttons on her sweater dress and undid them one by one it reminded him of a few weeks before when, in this very room, he had similarly opened her sweater the night they had first admitted their love for each other He pulled the sides of the dress apart and his eyes roamed over her gorgeous body and the tiny scraps of lace that only partially obscured her from view. Her bra was all white lace, as were her tiny panties. What really held his attention were her stockings and the lacy garter-tops of them that clung gently to her thighs. He placed a warm hand on her taut stomach, flashing for a second on what it would be like if his baby were in there, and he couldnt help the small smile that played on his lips at that thought. Continuing with his gentle ways, he briefly shifted her so he could fully remove her dress and then he looked at her again, and felt his own desire spike as he saw her stretched out on the blanket, the fire causing her skin and eyes to glow, the tiny scraps of lace
Natalie was quiet under his scrutiny but could feel her own desire build at the heat with which he looked at her. Still, neither of them made a noise the only sound was the snapping and popping of the fire and their breathing which was becoming heavier. John then carefully removed her bra and panties, but left her stockings where they were, finding their solitary presence on her otherwise naked body a sight to behold. Natalie felt the slight scratchiness of the wool blanket under her naked body the mixture of cool air and heat from the fire and her sensitized body moved a bit at these different yet equally arousing sensations. As she did, her legs bent a bit opened a bit and John felt the jolt between his own legs.
Natalie was about to move to undress him to protest his still-clothed state but as if reading her mind John began to remove his clothes, taking his time because he found Natalies gaze on him to be incredibly arousing as well. Finally he was kneeling naked and Natalies eyes locked on the massive erection jutting straight out from him and she felt a response deep inside her body as if he was already buried there, and she broke the silence as she whispered, John
While Natalie remained on her back, her legs still slightly bent and parted, John stretched out on his side to the right of her, facing her as their eyes studied each other. He moved in to take her mouth in a gentle kiss, then he pulled back and began to slowly caress her body with his right hand, while his left supported his head. Using just his finger tips he traced the outline of her collar bones, her sternum, her bountiful breasts, down her stomach, and then her legs, and as he went he took note of her bodys reaction where it hardened, where the hair stood on end, where he felt it tremble under his touch. Finally his fingers parted her folds and very slowly entered her, and she closed her eyes as she gasped.
John gently moved his fingers inside her as he felt her grow more wet to his touch, and then he eased into position so he could replace his fingers with his mouth, and her hips moved off the blanket in response, but not in a sharp movement it was more in keeping with the kittenish way she slowly stretched when she woke up in the morning. As his mouth grew more insistent her thighs fell further open, the sides of her knees hitting the blanket. He didnt try to hold her hips and still her movements because there was something unutterably erotic about her rocking herself against his tongue, his mouth, his chin and her upper body was in motion, too, but writhing as if gently buffeted by soft waves in the ocean. Even the sounds she was making whimpers, moans, gasps were easing out slowly
Natalie felt like she was floating in warm water that was caressing every inch of her body, inside and out. She was giving herself over to touch and sensation, submitting completely to the man who owned her heart and had solo claim on her body.
She was growing incredibly wet against Johns tongue, and he could feel her flesh start to quiver a bit around him. He gently detached himself from her, put one of the pillows under her hips to raise her into the perfect position, and then knelt between her legs as her eyes opened to find his. He placed the engorged tip of his penis gently into her wet opening and she sighed in preparation for his possession of her. He penetrated her with breath-catching slowness so she could feel him claim her inch by inch so they both could enjoy the friction as it moved along his length, her depth, and took hold of both of them. He could feel himself pushing her walls wider while in response they tried to grip him harder the most devastating and intimate pushing/pulling match. Finally his journey was complete and he stopped there for moment so they could savor their becoming one. Tears shimmered in Natalies eyes as she gave him a half-smile which he returned.
John leaned forward, bracing himself on his forearms that bracketed her head, his hands moving underneath her head so he could pull her mouth closer and they kissed deeply, with Natalie tasting herself on his plundering tongue. Their hips began to rock against each other and Natalie wrapped her arms around his back, her legs around his hips and waist, the feel of her stockings rubbing against his skin further igniting his passion for her.
Natalie welcomed every thrust of him his weight almost crushing her his wide hips forcing her legs further apart just by his presence between them. As exciting as all the other ways he made love to her took her were, she realized this was her favorite because it felt like every part of them was joined, entwined touchingthey could wrap their arms around each other, meld their mouths, see each others features shift with their passion their eyes darken and cloud over all the while her body sheathed him, embraced him as he drove them to their shattering end.
Their movements had intensified as the friction between their legs between their tongues had increased. Finally their mouths could not contain their sounds any longer could not fully withstand the vibrations of their moans and they needed the gasping breaths they took when they parted. With each thrust of Johns hips Natalies eyes practically rolled back in her head now as her legs continued to encircle him, her hips thrusting back at him it seemed almost as if her hips were dislocated, so pliant were they in response to him. Natalie felt an exquisite tightness, a wrenching ache deep within, and then John delivered one final blow too many or, rather, perfectly enough and obliterated that tightness, assuaged that ache, and then her arms, legs and walls contracted sharply around him as she rode out the concussion that claimed every inch of her body.
John! she managed to cry out, and then he was following her falling more deeply into her, onto her as his release poured inside her, as his whole body quaked from the intensity of it all.
They didnt move for a good while, almost as if they were frozen together but simply not wanting to lose a bit of the contact between their bodies. Finally John rolled off Natalie and pulled her into his arms so she could rest her head against his chest. The only sounds, again, were the fire and their breathing which was returning to normal. Natalies hand was resting on Johns chest, gently rubbing it, and her ring reflected the fire. He picked her hand up and kissed her over the rings as their eyes met. I love you I am so amazed you are my wife
She smiled dreamily at him and said, Me too it makes me so warm inside to know youre my husband I love you, John
He tugged the sides of the blanket up so it enshrouded them in a cocoon, and they fell asleep holding each other.
Chapter 80
About 2am John woke up and realized they were still on the floor, but their cozy fire had burned out. Natalie was still in his arms, her head resting on his chest. He tried to move without her waking but wasnt successful since she stirred against him. She sleepily sat up and then shivered in the cool air. John stood and then leaned down to pick her up and carry her to their bed. The sheets and comforter were cool under and around them, but soon warmed up as they held each other tight and drifted back to sleep.
They woke up for good at 8 and gently made love one more time in a slow, tender, languid style that was a continuation of the night before. With a pang of sadness they stowed their wedding rings in the bedroom safe and then took a shower and got dressed, deciding to chance it and drive back to Quantico together. They arrived at 11 an hour ahead of Natalies deadline so she went with him to his apartment and helped him unpack his things again. She wanted to stay with him, alone, for every last moment she could. Finally she kissed him good-bye and headed out to the dorm.
See you around campus, McBain
Be good Buchanan and then he whispered McBain and winked at her.
The dorm was a hive of activity when Natalie walked in, and they were all glad to have her back among them, the threats all done with. When they asked what she had done she simply said shed spent the few days with family which was the truth, since John was her family now, and the thought warmed her. She noticed that Nero was there and they shared a small smile, then everyone started talking about their long weekends, the weeks ahead until Christmas, etc.
Soon Hart arrived with news of the day or evening. Like their last return from liberty, they were going to go on an evening run he and McBain were going to swing by at 8pm to get them. Natalie couldnt help but remember their last run and sure enough, at the halfway point that night he once again pulled her behind the outhouse but this time didnt just settle for using his fingers. He whispered hotly against her ear, Mrs. McBain you are out of your regulation uniform Im quite sure underwear is a requirement
But were also trained to be prepared for optimum efficiency in our maneuvers
I love it when you talk dirty to me.
She had to stifle a giggle which turned into a moan, and then she was biting into his shoulder and he into hers as they oh so efficiently brought each other to climax. Before the rest of the team had returned from watering their various trees, John and Natalie had folded back into those lingering around waiting for their brethren. The 2 weeks leading up to Christmas went pretty quickly. John and Natalie had broken the news about their impromptu marriage to their respective families, and when the shock wore off there were sincere well wishes and pledges for everyone to spend time getting to know each other. To that end, the McBains were joining in the Buchanan Christmas.
In the meantime, John and Natalie managed periodic assignations in the gym, the pool, and even his apartment when she detoured there instead of the library. A few times Nero did run interference for them by pretending to go for a run with Natalie and Natalie and Nero had to laugh when they realized a few people thought something was going on between THEM!
They were breaking for the Christmas Holiday on the afternoon of the 23rd, and John and Natalie planned to spend that night together at their home, and then drive Christmas Eve morning to Llanview where Vikki had already prepped the Carriage House for them.
On the night of the 21st Natalie had returned to her bunk after a late dinner at The Pub where she was able to briefly chat with John as he hung with a few friends and then returned to her bunk. She listened to some music on her i-Pod and then just to the increasing quiet in the dorm as everyone went to sleep. She had just drifted off herself when familiar arms closed around her and she opened her eyes in shock and tried to whisper, John! but hed put his hand gently over her mouth. Finally he uncovered her mouth and very softly she asked, What are you doing here?!
Living out a certain fantasy he said against her ear, and she had to strain to hear him. You may recall what you told me youd be ready for if I snuck in here rather than teased you on the phone if I yanked your pants and panties off her boxers were suddenly off her body and they were all shed been wearing besides her tank... if I freed the steel pressing against my zipper suddenly she felt him pressing right at her opening since her legs had spread of their own volitionyou said Id glide right in able to take you all at once and he did, as he clamped his mouth on hers to stifle her gaspy moanand when she had quieted somewhat he continued, you said youd beg me to split you in twodidnt you?
Natalie could only shake her head as she tried to keep her mouth shut and not let out the noises bubbling up in her throat.
Is that a yes, dear wife
Yes! She gasped as he sliced into her again.
She was stunned that he had come in here but so excited by it As she pulled a pillow against her face to muffle her noises she felt him roughly shove her tank top up so he could kiss, suck and lick her breasts as he kept himself buried in her but ground his hips forcefully he had quickly figured her bed would squeak far too revealingly if he thrust in and out. Soon his face was buried in the other side of her pillow as they climaxed together then the calmed enough to face each otherto kiss though he remained buried inside her triggering aftershocks for both of them. He finally shifted enough to set the alarm on his watch for 3am and then they were able to do one of their favorite things for at least a few hours hold each other while they slept.
Chapter 81
John and Natalie were home by mid-afternoon on the 23rd and didnt plan to leave the house until the next morning when they drove to Llanview. Just being in each others company, not having to hide their relationship was an expansive feeling. They had only been in the house 2 minutes when John disappeared upstairs for a moment, coming down with their wedding rings and earning a beaming smile and passionate kiss from Natalie in response.
They spent their day watching cheesy movies in the den, wrapped around each other, and then ate take-out Chinese in front of the fire. While they hadnt yet made love they knew they had so much free time ahead of them, so they could enjoy just being together in their home their day and evening had been punctuated by plenty of the make out sessions that were the perfect slice of fun and heat.
And they talked a lot about their paststheir future.
John would you think Id lost my mind if I said that once I pass this program and I DO intend to pass that Im not sure I want to be IN the Special Branch?
John held his breath for a moment so the relief flooding through him wouldnt be evident on his face. This all had to be Natalies decision. No, not at all but Im curious about what you have in mind instead
Well, Crawford and I have talked a few times he seems to think that I have an aptitude for the type of work the BAU does and I do find it fascinating
He had mentioned your talent to me, too and I totally see that. BAU is also a plum posting Natalie
Yeah, and Id have to go back to school, too and that is also interesting
I think youd be great at it and I also thought that you might even be an occasional instructor in the Special Branch training program
Really, me? Why? She was flattered hed thought of that.
Because you get it on every level, Natalie. Your physical conditioning and stamina under duress have been undeniable and you also have a flair for all the classroom subjects. You put your training both psychological and physical to perfect use when you took out Gentry and Hawkins. How you managed to keep it together well, its because you are good at what you do because you deserved to be in the program but if it has also showed you that that might not be what you want your lifes work to be
Now Im more interested in my LIFE with you and pursuing the BAU option could give me more flexibility
Yeahand my work with the Child Predator task force and as an instructor in your program keep me pretty much around, tooyou know, our work will always have some danger to it, but I have to be honest, Natalie, Im glad that you might decide not to stick with the Special Branch I am not going to try to make that decision for you, but my heart will rest a lot easier if youre not on that team
I know and that has played a part in the decision, but the main thing is, I dont want to be apart from you any more than is absolutely necessary
Ive grown pretty partial to having you around myself its strange because in some ways these past few weeks have been hard, having to keep our secret and our distance. But, just being able to look up and see you be in the same placethat matters to me. A lot.
And it didnt hurt that we were able to grab some private time togetherI STILL cant believe you snuck in my bunk!
You loved it!
Yes, I did but that was a huge risk!
Well, given that all your classmates are guys I think they would have understood
She rolled her eyes but laughed and then said, Lets get all this stuff cleaned up and head upstairs
You trying to get me into bed?
Uh, yeah.
Well OK, then and be VERY glad that were not in the dorm or behind the outhouse or at the gym because I am giving you fair warning I intend to make you scream
Natalie almost dropped the plates at the sound of his voice and his words not to mention the heat of his breath on her neck since he had somehow managed to walk up incredibly close to her in a nanosecond. Her entire body suffused with heat.
John laughed out loud at her reaction, quite pleased with himself, and sauntered into the kitchen to deposit the take-out containers in the garbage. The joke was on him, however, because when he turned around Natalie was right behind him and she pushed him up against the island, opened his pants and yanked them and his boxers down and took every aroused inch of him into her hot mouth. He gripped onto the island behind him as he hoarsely cried Natalie! both in shock and pleasure. She made short work of him, practically yanking his orgasm out of him with the suction of her mouth and the slightly rough stroke of her hands, and then she licked him clean before finally standing before him. He had not been able to hold a sound back and she smirked at him and said, So, who is it that was just screaming? Or do we use shouting for a manly guy like you? When your legs can carry you Ill be upstairs waiting for you dont worry, I wont start without you
She gave him a saucy smile over her shoulder he was sure shed deliberately stuck out her tight tush at him as she did so and then left him leaning against the island, his breath still erratic and his legs still trembling.
When a bolt of inspiration struck John he quickly found his second wind and caught up to Natalie before shed quite reached the landing on the second floor. She looked over her shoulder at him with the humor dying on her face when she saw the look on his, which showed both heat and intent. In the space of a heartbeat she was in a controlled fall forward, her hands coming to rest a few steps up. Then her hips were jerked back, her pants and panties yanked down and John took her forcefully from behind as she clung to the wooden step for support. Lord he was taking her breath away as he pounded into her. Then she felt his hands move under her sweater to her bra so he could drag the lace down off her breasts and his hands roughly groped them in time with his rutting hips. Oh, God, John was all she could manage, and then he pinched her nipples and got the exact reaction hed promised she screamed as her release thundered through her and dragged him along for the ride as he let it all go deep inside her.
John held onto Natalie tightly as their bodies continued to jerk and shudder. When theyd finally calmed a bit they literally crawled forward and stretched out in the hallway outside the master bedroom, gasping for air. John said, Shit, I need a drink! And Natalie giggled and crawled towards the bedroom a task made a bit more difficult since her pants and panties were bunched around her knees still. John groaned at the view that provided, but was far too spent to do anything about it, yet. Natalie dragged herself onto the bench at the end of their bed and was suitably impressed when John actually walked into the room, though his gait was not what one would call steady. He looked at her and said, Lose the clothes, McBain, while I get us a drink to steady our nerves
Natalie obeyed and saw that John stripped as he made his way to the cabinet with the bar. He poured two good measures of whiskey and then sat beside her on the bench as they sipped it. There was something almost decadent about sitting naked and drinking together, but then again, theyd just screwed like dogs on the stairs, so
You know, Natalie, you may end up being the death of me you snap my control quicker than anyone Ive ever known
She laughed, and still couldnt quite catch her breath so she said breathlessly, Well, thats only if you dont kill me first and clearly I dont exactly have control around you, either
John lifted his glass in a toast and said, Then lets drink to an utter lack of control and they clinked glasses.
Natalie turned to face John and sat Indian style on the bench, which only served to open her up wide to his stunned view a fact to which she was apparently oblivious.
Jesus, Natalie! My poor old heart!
What?
In response he pushed his right index finger into her moist heat and she gasped, Oh! and some of her whiskey sloshed out of her glass on onto her chest, since shed been raising her glass to her lips. With a second finger joining his first, John leaned forward and licked the whiskey off Natalie as her head fell back and she called his name. He pulled back and their eyes locked and then they fell forward so their mouths could meet and they could taste the whiskey on each other. When they broke apart John removed his fingers from Natalie, put their glasses on the floor beside the bench and guided her to him so she could straddle him sink down on him. She wound her arms around his neck, his hands found a home on her ass so he could guide her movements, and their mouths met once again. Since they had still not completely recovered from their earlier exploits, it didnt take much of their intense grinding against each other to bring each other to completion.
Eventually they crawled into bed, wrapped around each other, and slept through the night.
Chapter 82
John and Natalie headed to Llanview the next morning and by the time they pulled through the gates of Llanfair there was a welcoming committee fully assembled the McBains were already there, having accepted Vikkis invitation to stay over in a couple of the spare bedrooms. For the next few hours over lunch there was much excited conversation about John and Natalie being married, how they fell for each other, etc. The two had plotted out a story that was near enough to the truth without going too much into detail Natalie still didnt want her family to know about Gentry and Hawkins. Everyone oohed and aaahed over them meeting in class and being unable to fight their feelings for each other and it was clear that the two families were going to get along famously.
Natalie and Eve spent a bit of time together and Natalie realized she liked the woman very much.
Natalie, I really am looking forward to getting to know you better. Any woman that could open my John up again the way you have a way Ive never seen him is very special. I had worried so much about him, being alone as he got older. But nowwell, youve given me a lot of peace along with my Johnny.
Thank you, Eve. Hes really been here for me during this crazy training program and I I love him very much
Natalie, I can tell that looking in your eyes and I can see his love for you in his
John faired equally well with the Buchanan men and Jessica, who questioned him vigorously for a while but then welcomed him to the family.
Finally John and Natalie were able to adjourn to the Carriage House and Natalie was touched when she saw how Vikki had decorated it for the Holidays it was replete with a large Christmas tree, boughs and lights twinkling on the banisters and mantle, and copious amounts of mistletoe hung around and John took advantage of the one hanging over the front door.
After dinner at 8 the entire group was going to head to midnight mass. But that gave them a few hours to themselves as their families so blatantly pointed out to the newlyweds to the point that it was a bit embarrassing. But then again they certainly love their alone time.
Vikki must also have sent someone down to light the fireplace since it was glowing, adding to the soft lighting created by the tree and other decorations. Natalie saw that there were tons of packages under the tree she had done her shopping on-line and had everything shipped here.
John and Natalie had agreed that their gift to each other would be a trip somewhere warm a real honeymoon once the program was over. But it was soon clear they had both broken the rules as they had little boxes in hand to give each other and they laughed at that. They opened up the boxes simultaneously and were incredulous at the gifts because they were identical. Each of them had bought the other a St. Dwynwen medal the Welsh patron saint of lovers.
Wow they both said simultaneously. Apparently they had each taken note of it when theyd been at Sams and then they smiled because they realized he must have known theyd each ordered the same gift, and knew it would be an especially happy coincidence.
Well, Natalie, I cant help but feel weve some how been divinely blessed John said as he pulled her close.
I know first Kermit and now this! She giggled.
They fell back on the couch in a twisted heap as they kissed each other over and over. Coming up for air every now and again and just holding each other. They were kissing again and it was getting heated, with Natalie lying on the couch, John on top of her, his jeans-clad hips resting between her jeans-clad legs as they rocked against each other. John took his mouth off hers so he could begin to open her shirt when he started in surprise as he saw the frowsy blonde leering at them.
Well well well seems you got moves off the strip-dance floor Mr. Agent man.
Natalie just groaned since she knew that voice and its way with words anywhere. John jumped off the couch and Natalie and then they were both standing up. Roxy pulled Natalie into a big hug which she genuinely returned. Then Roxy hugged John as well
Vikki invited me and Rexy to the festoonities I just had to see ya but I shoulda remembered you guys were newlyweds Ill catch you later at the big-house and Ill make sure everyone else knows not to come knocking since youll be, you know, interposed
Before they could stop her and suggest she just keep her mouth shut, she was gone.
Great, I cant wait to look your dad in the eye when I see him again
John, were MARRIED I dont think hes going to be surprised that we have sex I think the assumption of everyone at the main house is that is exactly how we are spending our time right now so, how about it?
You expect me to perform on command under pressure? he said with mock affront.
Well, youre already standing at attention so Im not exactly sure what your beef is
Beef? Is that all I am to you? Beefcake? Oh, the sordid life of an ex-Chippendales dancer
Natalie had collapsed back onto the couch laughing, but her ears perked up when he said that Hey, why dont you REALLY perform for me dance for me, John come on and strip for me Ive got plenty of singles
Uh, no. thats not gonna happen
Aw, come on you danced in front of all those strange, screaming women Im your wife, Johncant you dance for me? Natalie had gotten off the couch to walk up closely to him, talking in an increasingly husky voice.
John banded his arms around her and whispered, I give you what they really wanted he said as he ground his hardness into her. And I dont make you wait through some silly dance
John and Natalie were a good 15 minutes late for dinner even though Roxy had left them three hours earlier. They both blushed a little at the knowing glances and smirks that came their way, but then again, the WERE newlyweds who had been kept apart (largely) by circumstances for the past few weeks.
Chapter 83
Christmas and the ensuing few days passed quickly and it was a special time for John and Natalie as they got to be together and with their loved ones. They wanted to spend New Years in their own home, however, so they left Llanview on December 30th after more endless rounds of hugs, kisses and well wishes. Natalies family felt so much better knowing that even if it was a secret and at a bit of a distance she had someone like John looking out for her someone who loved her.
They were due back at Quantico by noon on January 2nd, and they intended to get as much out of their time together as they could. They enjoyed basic pastimes hanging at the local Starbucks, having lunch out, going to the movies, and spending time relaxing at home. They knew it was an indication of what their life would be like once they could be together full-time, and it made them both happy and anxious to get on with it. They were invited to Neros for their New Years Eve party, but respectfully declined since they wanted the time alone.
What would you like to do for New Years, Natalie? While we stay in.besides the obvious, of course
Well, I think we should pick out something great for dinner that we can spend some time making together while we drink plenty of wine along the way then we can put music on, light a fire, turn down the lights and have a pajama party while we eat dinner and then enjoy after
A pajama party?
Yeah I want to go buy us both some nice silky pajamas that will feel great against our skin and underneath each others handsuntil we dont need them any more
Though John was not exactly the biggest silk pajamas fan, what she described sounded great to him. Im in do I get to see you try on and model all your nightgown selections?
Nope. It should be a surprise
New Years Eve morning they headed out early to do their food shopping they were making chicken piccata with rice, a salad, sorbet for dessert, champagne, wine they were fully prepared for their evening. As they prepped for dinner they were dressed in cozy jeans and sweaters, but while it simmered for the final minutes headed upstairs to quickly get showered and changed John had volunteered to use the guest bathroom to save time and give Natalie a bit of privacy as she got ready. He wanted to be surprised by her
He got downstairs first and kept an eye on dinner he was dressed in very simple black silk mens pajamas, and Natalie was right, they did feel good against the skin. He turned when he heard Natalie and couldnt help the smile on his face. Her nightgown was incredibly simple yet unerringly sexy. It was the palest pink silk charmeuse and, cut on the bias, it fell to her ankles. The deep v-halter-neck was held up by what looked like a silk ribbon tied at the nape of her neck. She had left her hair flowing loosely around her shoulders. And he could tell she had absolutely nothing on under the thin fabric that skimmed and accentuated her body. He held his hand out to her and she walked over and when he took her in his arms he realized the other great feature of the nightgown it was essentially backless. Her back was naked from the ribbon down to a couple of inches below the small of her back the fabric started again just above the curve of her taut behind, and actually dipped into a slight v. His hands couldnt help rubbing her back as she wrapped her arms around him.
Natalie you look beautiful. Arent you going to be a bit cold though?
Not if you stay close to me
That was an assignment he wouldnt mind.
They set out their dinner on the tray on the ottomans and John had Natalie practically sit in his lap both to keep her warm and because he suddenly couldnt bear for her to be even arms-distance away. They tasted each others lips more than their food though they had done a great job on their meal. Soft music had been playing all evening in the background, and John asked Natalie to dance with him. Soon they were holding each other tightly, swaying in front of the fire. Periodically theyd share a deep kiss, and then Natalies head would go back to resting on his chest, her arms around his middle, his arms around her back. Their bodies were hyper-aware of each other as the think silk hid virtually nothing it just served as a tactile sensation that was additive to their whole experience.
Johns heart was full of tenderness for Natalie and he continued to marvel at their varied feelings and passion for each other. As they danced his eyes fell on the staircase and he remembered the week earlier when he had chased Natalie up them and taken her as forcefully as he had not an ounce of tenderness to be found. Yet right now, he couldnt fathom touching her that way he wanted to be gentle yet still communicate the intensity of his feelings for her. He could feel her nipples press against his chest, and his groin tightened when he thought of bringing his mouth to them sometime later this evening.
Natalie had never felt more safe warm loved. She felt the tenderness in his embrace, and the simultaneous hardness of his arousal pressing into her belly and she loved it all. She loved everything about him.
The clock struck 11:30 and John pulled back a bit to look down at Natalie, saying softly, I want to be in bed with you when this year turns to next
Lets go
John had already put some champagne on ice upstairs, so all that was left was for them to be there the dishes and everything else could wait for tomorrow. He swooped Natalie off her feet he loved to do that, she felt so small in his arms and carried her upstairs. He set her down and they looked at each other for a long, heated moment. Then Natalie moved her hands to the buttons on Johns pajama top and opened them, parting the fabric so she could move her hands under it and around to his bare back, and press her mouth on his chest his neck. All the while his hands traced a light pattern up and down the length of her back. She pushed the top off him and it fell in a whisper to the floor and then she moved her hands to the band of his pants and pushed them down, having to use a little more force to get them over the resistance of his fully-aroused manhood. When they fell to the floor he stepped out of them and Natalies hand moved around him, gently stroking him, savoring the feel of steel wrapped in his velvet skin.
John moaned a bit and then gently moved her hand away, kissing its palm as he whispered, I dont want this to go too fast He untied the bow at the nape of her neck and the top of her gown fell to her waist revealing her creamy breasts. He brought both of his warm hands to them and kneaded them gently before giving a gentle kiss to each. Then his hands moved to her hips and pushed the gown off her so it landed in a pool at her feet. She stepped out of it and towards him so they could hold each other tight for a minute. He pulled back and whispered, Get in bed, Natalie and she did so while he quickly popped and poured the champagne.
Natalie was sitting up, leaning against the headboard, the lower part of her body covered by the comforter, but her stomach and breasts completely exposed to him. He handed her a glass and joined her on the bed in that exact way, sliding an arm around her in the process, and she rested her head against his shoulder. Neither of them wanted any noise to intrude they could hear the strains of the soft music they had left playing downstairs so rather than turn on the TV to watch the ball drop, they would listen for the sound of the clock striking midnight.
Natalie Im so happy I found you this year was three quarters over when I met you, and if anyone would have told me this is how Id be spending New Years I wouldnt have let myself hope for this I love you
I was going to say its like a dream, but its better, because it actually is real and it FEELS real I love you so much, John
The clock chimed twelve times as Natalie and John toasted each other and took a sip of their champagne and that was all they had patience for. They put their glasses down on their bedside tables and then rolled to face each other, fully stretched out on the bed. They kissed each other deeply, with mounting passion for several minutes, their hands winding into each others hair to deepen that connection. Then Natalie felt Johns hand pulling up on her left thigh and she snaked it over his hip and around his back so he could have the access he needed to push inside her. When he was buried as deeply as he could go their mouths parted so they could look at each other. Their hands slid down to grab hold of each others backsides, and gently but firmly increased the intensity and depth of their coupling. Their mouths re-joined as well and they savored their ongoing connection as they took their time bringing each other to completion. When Natalie ripped her mouth from Johns to cry out against his neckwhen he felt her tight, hot, wet flesh clutch at him, he spilled deeply inside her as he wrapped his arms in a tight band around her quaking body. His heated seed seemed to spread throughout Natalies entire body, warming her to her very core she felt her heart and soul expand even more at its touch and she wrapped her arms around her husband having never felt such a close connection to anyone in her life.
I love you John
I love you, Natalie Happy New Year
Chapter 84
As had become their usual style, John and Natalie didnt leave the house the entirety of January 1st. When they were living here full-time, in the open as Mr. & Mrs. McBain, they knew they would venture out more both separately and together. But right now they needed to store up every moment they could. A good part of the day they spent stretched out together on the large leather couch in the den, reading spy novels and necking like teenagers every once and a while. Of course on one of those occasions things took a decidedly adult turn and then they were napping to recover. It was all bliss.
They ate leftovers for dinner and then headed upstairs by about 8pm. They took a hot shower together which further relaxed them, and then they climbed into bed. They held each other close for a few moments and then Natalie began to kiss her way down Johns body, pushing him so he was flat on his back. He found himself holding his breath as he awaited her arrival where he was dying to feel her mouth. Soon she was licking the length of him, around his tip, especially on the underside of the sensitive ridge where it joined his shaft. He whispered, Natalie and moved both of his hands to his hair. She moved her mouth over him, taking him all in until he could feel himself hit the back of her throat and he moaned at the contact. Her mouth and hand moved up and down him for torturous moments and he felt himself reaching for the point of no return but he wanted to cum inside his wife at the base of her womb, not in her ache-inducing mouth.
John pulled up on Natalies arms and she slid up his body, spreading her legs over him as she did. She gasped when she felt his hardness press between her folds and then their mouths were fusing in a hot, decidedly open-mouthed kiss. John pulled on Natalie again to advance her position so he could draw first her right nipple and then her left into his mouth to suck and bite gently. She felt a jolt of electricity between her legs and a rush of fluid there, and wished desperately that he was still pressed between her folds at that moment, so she began to wriggle around trying to move back down his body. John relented and eased his hold on her arms so she could get where she wanted to be where she needed to be. He needed her there as well. While he remained lying flat, Natalie knelt for a moment, a knee on either side of his hips. Then she took firm hold of him while she lowered herself positioned him at her opening. Their eyes locked as she sank down onto him and when he was in as deep as he could go, she sat up straight, perfectly still, literally rooted to the spot for a moment as her hands rested on his stomach. He filled her so completely that it still somewhat shocked her body a bit every time she took him inside her. His body was a challenge to hers, but also delivered pleasure beyond what she could have imagined.
She began to move her hips in a rocking motion, not wanting to lose a moment of his total possession by moving up and down on him. No, right now she needed to feel him embedded in her so deeply she could feel him in her belly as she moved on him.
John could feel how tightly she gripped him and heat spread through his body as she ground against him. He moved his hands to her breasts to knead them while she continued to gyrate her hips and her flesh clutched him deeper within. Natalie could feel her ache converting to motion to the contractions that would shoot an explosion of sensation throughout her body. She craved the feeling of his mouth on hers, the powerful way his tongue would mate with hers, so she fell forward and John caught her, crushed her against him so that their chests were mashed together, their mouths colliding hotly. John had begun to gyrate his hips, too, and they were both writhing as he banded his arms around her back to give them the shred of stability needed so their hips could continue their now-fierce movements that kept him anchored within while her walls held him in their fiery grip.
Their moans vibrated along their dueling tongues and into the recesses of each others mouths and suddenly John felt the urgent need to dominate her and drive them to where their bodies were clearly clamoring to go. Ripping his mouth from hers he flipped them so that she was now in the subordinate position and before she could fully adjust he hooked his arms under her knees and yanked her lower half off the bed so he could drive into her. He took her so hard, so deeply that she literally felt impaled on him, each stroke delivering a shard of pain that served to heighten rather than diminish the erotic sensations building within her. She could hear herself from a distance calling Johns name over and over in supplication, not to stop, but to finish her to deliver her from this exquisite torture. Just when she thought she could not withstand one moment more, she fractured into a million pieces, each of which was molten hot and fiercely shredded through her body as she screamed, her hands clutching desperately at Johns arms for some semblance of balance of reality, because surely she was no longer a flesh and blood presence she was just energy and release
For a brief moment John was a deeply aroused spectator at the force of Natalies orgasm and the way it took hold of her but the vice-like grip that convulsed around him was impossible to ignore and when her nails dug into his forearms as she tried to steady herself that tiny stab of pain proved his trigger, and he collapsed onto her, his weight driving her into the mattress as violent tremors roiled within him. When he fell on her he speared her even more deeply, which a second ago would have seemed an impossibility, and she cried out at the renewed wave of heat that rushed over her. At least now she could clutch his shoulders, his back, bury her head in his neck as she gasped for breath at least now she was weighted down by him and wouldnt be swept away
John was floored this had all started out with passion, but with a gentleness, too this felt as if for a moment they were slipping the bonds of their corporeal presence and had converted to nothing but ardent energy. He could feel Natalie trembling beneath him and began to move off her because he feared he might be crushing her, but when she felt him shift she tightened her grip on him, still needing his weight, his solidness as she returned to herself.
Long moments later she loosened her arms and he moved off her, to the side, pushing her damp hair off her face, noting the desire-drowsy eyes that looked back at him. She raised her hand to caress his face, and he saw that it shook a little. No words would suffice at that moment, so John leaned down to claim her mouth with infinite gentleness and she matched her kiss to his, though he felt a shiver run through her at the contact. The sheen of sweat that had covered their bodies was turning cool, and John got off the bed, picked Natalie up and carried her to the bathroom and into the shower, and soon they were in the warm comfort of hot water, billowing steam and each others arms.
Natalie was clinging to John for support, but placing soft kisses on his chest where her head rested. He wasnt doing much better himself, given the force of his own release, but it was a biological fact that Natalies body bore the brunt of their intense love-making sessions no matter the pleasure they brought her. He moved his hands to her head, her face, and gently tipped it up so he could look at her.
Are you all right, Natalie? That was pretty intense
She looked at him with the ghost of a smile playing around her lips, It was absolutely intense and I am more than all right just recovering you take my breath awayand my ability to stand on my own she said with a weak laugh. She was a bit sore but didnt quite know how to tell him that she was glad it made her feel like she was totally his he had claimed her, possessed her a bit like he had branded her and she could feel his imprint she wrapped her arms more tightly around him as he helped rinse her hair.
After their shower they dried each other carefully and then headed back to their bed, climbing in and drawing great comfort from the feel of skin against skin as their arms encircled each other and they slipped into a deep sleep.
Chapter 85
In the middle of the night Natalie and John turned to each other in a semi-wakened state and made love slowly in a way that was the antithesis of their last time, yet no less satisfying. As their heartbeats returned to normal they whispered their love for one another and fell back to sleep. The next morning they tried to shake off the sadness that was creeping in around the edges of their time together they had just spent the longest stretch of their lives together as a couple, and it hurt their hearts to think of going back to acting like acquaintances and colleagues. Natalie couldnt help the tears that gathered in her eyes as they stowed their rings back in the safe, and John pulled her close and held her for a long time, finding he was more deeply affected by that little ritual than hed expected.
They were subdued when they said their good-byes at Johns apartment and Natalie was finding it difficult to find her emotional balance as she walked back to the dorm. It helped a little when she saw her friends and heard their entertaining stories about their Holidays. She was able to talk about hers with decent openness, emphasizing the Buchanans and Balsams.
A few days passed and the Quantico routine was re-established but Natalie felt a listlessness that she could only classify as being heartsick. She missed John so much, was dying for just a simple hug, but thus far theyd had to make do with late-night phone calls and glances across the room.
Natalie found some relief in her class work and studies she loved all the psychology courses she was taking, along with scenario planning/plotting. She also threw herself back into her work-outs, pushing her body to exhaustion. But events conspired to keep John and Natalie away from each other except in the official context of the program. First, they learned that the old gym would be shut for two weeks so they could deal with a burgeoning rat problem, and drain and repair the pool. In addition, there was a special course for state police leaders from across the country, and the second bedroom in Johns apartment had been pressed into service also for two weeks! Luckily the guy bunking with him was a decent sort, but John felt like punching him every time he saw him because his presence meant Natalies absence. John was reluctant to sneak into the dorm again because it was a huge risk, but he was getting to the point where he was going to chance it, if only to hold Natalie in his arms for a bit, to fall asleep with her
The extent of their physical connection had happened two evenings previously at The Pub when most of the candidates and instructors had opted to go for a few drinks. With a bit of subtle engineering on Neros part, Natalie and John had ended up sitting beside each other and holding hands under the table, keeping their thighs close together for as long as possible.
Finally, on day 14 the candidates were doing fighting drills and proficiency tests and Hart being Hart John was going to have to throttle him some day he once again selected John and Natalie as fight partners and it was going to be both agony and ecstasy. When the whistle blew to signal the start of their match, they took each other down in short order, and John had to remind himself to fight her because all he wanted to do was hug her to him. But when John heard Natalies soft gasp the first time their bodies truly came into contact he felt the heat course through his veins and like previous times of pent-up frustration they used their fight as a proxy for what they really wanted to be doing to each other. John could feel Natalie quivering at his touch and he knew her body and its responses enough to know it was out of passion, not fearnot anger. Removing any doubt was when he had her pinned at one point she rasped into his ear so only he could hear, I wish you were inside me right now
He groaned but could do nothing but continue to fight until the whistle was blown again. Natalie was shaken enough by the end that she made a bee-line for the rest room, splashing cold water on her face.
She and John kept their distance as the rest of the class did their bouts. At the end, he walked by her and as quickly and quietly as he could he said, My office, 15 minutes
It was already after hours so the fifth floor was largely deserted, and no one thought twice about seeing a candidate approaching an instructors office. Natalie knocked exactly once on the door and it was yanked open and she felt Johns grip around her wrist as he pulled her into the office, shut and locked the door, then had her in his arms, his mouth on hers, practically shoving his tongue down her throat. She clung to him and thrust her tongue against his, trying to keep pace. They moaned as their mouths remained melded, their passion and actions raw. Natalie was vaguely aware of Johns hands on her sweats and next they along with her panties, were bunched at her ankles and while Johns fingers plunged inside her she tried to keep enough of her wits about her to kick her sneakers off and then the clothing. All the while their mouths were absorbing their noises.
John backed Natalie further into his office, his fingers still buried in her and then he removed them and ended their kiss so he could turn her around and bend her forward over his desk, kicking her legs apart while he dropped his pants and boxers down to his own ankles. He groaned when he saw her tight ass and how wet she was how she was panting as she waited for him to take her. Natalie was trembling in excitement and the lingering impact of his fingers having been inside her, knowing he would be filling her any second. When he seemed to hold back for a moment she said his name as a breathy question, John?
He responded by thrusting into her to the hilt, moving his hand over her mouth to quiet her reaction. She was so tight, so wet, that unable to help himself he began to pound into her, but after a few decisive strokes he knew that as deeply arousing as this was, it wasnt enough for him right now. He needed to hold her. feel her return his tight embrace. John withdrew from her body and took a few gasping breaths to steady himself while she looked at him over her shoulder with a look that held her desire and confusion.
It was with gentle hands that he pulled her up from the desk and turned her around to face him. He took her in his arms and held her close, feeling her body shaking from her reaction to his previous possession, but also the sigh that came out as their arms went around each other. He kicked his own shoes, pants and boxers off and picked her up, carrying her over to the couch and sitting down with her across his lap. He took her face in his hands and said softly, Ive missed you so much I love you
Natalie smiled softly at him and in a shaky voice said, Ive missed you too and I love you so much
They kissed with tenderness, yet that was almost at war with the reality of his incredible hardness resting underneath her backside. Love versus carnality and really an intoxicating blend of both. Finally they shifted so Natalie was lying back on the couch, John between her legs, and then he was inside her again, but this time they could hold each other, kiss each other, and it didnt take long for them to climax together, swallowing each others moans and whimpers. For the better part of the next hour they just held each other, kissing occasionally, but relishing the chance to have their arms around each other. John hadnt realized how much he loved the feeling of Natalies face buried in the crook of his neck, but feeling her breath there now he inhaled her scent, too, because it was so HER She was doing much the same, locking away memories for all her senses that she could access during their time apart.
When they heard what they surmised was the cleaning crew starting to make their way around, they disentangled themselves, got up from the couch and found their clothing their shoes. They stood in a tight hug for several more minutes, then after a deep, soulful kiss, then Natalie left and walked slowly back to the dorms. She felt both better and worse at the same time.
