Jagged Ends: The Magnolia Series, #4

By Taylor Dawn

Agent Ryan Madden always had a tough time fitting in at the Washington D.C. FBI field office. As the daughter of a fallen agent, Ryan had the determination to make her father proud and uphold his legacy. Unfortunately her anger management issues and jagged demeanor caused more problems than she'd expected. Hoping to teach her a lesson, Ryan's superiors sent her and her tacky pant suits to the Biloxi, Mississippi field office for a change of scenery.

FBI agent Remington (Remy) Archer was anxious to meet his new partner…that was until she walked into his office. He'd been expecting a man, not a sexy female with bright hazel eyes and a trendy bobbed haircut. His instant attraction to Ryan was alarming but he was resolute in his decision to make things work. That was, until they were assigned their first case together. How was he supposed to go undercover at a BDSM club with a strong willed woman who refused to submit to anyone?

Get covert with Ryan and Remy as they brave the danger of the human trafficking and drug trade in the fourth installment of Taylor Dawn's best-selling Magnolia Series.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Princess Press
• Release date: Mar 18, 2017
• ISBN: 9781386872054

Book preview

Chapter Two

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RYAN RACKED HER BRAIN, trying to make sense of her reaction to Remy. Having that type of response to someone she’d just met wasn’t out of the norm, it was in the fucking stratosphere across the universe and somewhere over the damn rainbow. What in the ever-loving hell was wrong with her? That was her job, the place where she earned a paycheck and if she was lucky, put some bad guys behind bars also. It wasn’t a singles mixer were people got drunk and tried to find their soulmate. It was time to pull her shit together and act like an adult instead of a horny teenage girl kissing the quarterback under the bleachers. Yes, her new partner was adorable with his blue eyes and dimples but eye color and facial features weren’t enough to build a strong relationship foundation. She’d learned that lesson with Captain Fuck-a-Bimbo back in D.C. If there was one thing she wasn’t going to do, it was to not make the same mistakes she had in the past.

Who’s the chick? She was dragged from her reflection by the sound of another man’s voice in the office.

Ryan stood from her chair, I’m Agent Ryan Madden and you are? She held out her hand to none other than the pretty boy she saw on her way in earlier.

Cole Matthews. He hesitantly reached out and grasp her hand. Wow, that’s quite a grip you’ve got there. He laughed.

Thanks, she said while shaking his hand.

The other man introduced himself as Luke Daughtry and Ryan couldn’t help but think the guy didn’t look like the typical FBI agent. His bearded face made him look more like a serial killer with dead bodies hidden under the floorboards of his house.

I think I’m gonna grab some lunch, Remy announced. Would you like to come along? He turned to Ryan and asked.

Sure, why not. The office was already stifling her so maybe some fresh scorching Mississippi air would bring her out of the first day blues.

Following him out of the office, Ryan had to internally chastise herself for gawking at Remy’s ass. His backside looked divine in his dark blue dress pants and his confident gait drew her in like a valley girl to a Starbucks. That was one thing she loved about working for the FBI—there wasn’t a lack of suited men all around her. Not that she’d admit it out loud but, seeing a man in a suit flipped the switch to her sexual Frankenstein. It was hard work to keep from walking around the office with her arms in front of her while babbling sooooooots.

We’ll take my car, Remy suggested as he led her to a white Subaru SUV.

Not really the kind of vehicle I pictured you driving. She laughed.

Really?

I envisioned something along the lines of a sports car. She said as she slid into the leather seat and buckled her safety belt. Remy didn’t reply but she saw what looked like sadness pass across his face. Did I say something wrong?

No. Sorry about that, my head was somewhere else. He started the engine and pulled out of the parking spot. What kind of food do you like? He quickly changed the subject.

Ryan wondered what was up with him. He went from playfully kind to broody in a matter or nanoseconds. I’m not picky. Just somewhere I can get a salad will be fine.

"You’re one of those women." He smirked.

Not sure what you’re implying with that remark.

Just saying you’re a woman who’s probably watching her figure, that’s all.

Yeah, she was one of those women. After being overweight during her high school and college years, she was going to do everything in her power to not slip back into her fat pants. There’s nothing wrong with wanting to eat healthy.

"I didn’t say there was. Personally, I’d rather chow down on a big juicy cheeseburger than rabbit food."

So, I like salad, what’s the big deal?

I’m sorry if I’ve offended you, Little Bunny Foo Foo.

Okay, she couldn’t help but laugh at that comment. Point taken. For the rest of the ride she sat quietly while gazing at the scenery. It was kind of pretty there—the magnolia trees were in full bloom with their white flowers prominent on the background of dark green leaves. People walked happily by with shopping bags in their hands and some pushing kids in strollers. She didn’t envy them though. Ryan had the life she wanted—well, besides being away from her home in Washington D.C. Hopefully she could prove herself in Biloxi and then get transferred back home.

Here we are, Remy stopped the SUV in front of a small restaurant. The hand painted wooden sign out front read ‘The Grouper Grill’. I found this place one night while driving around. Trust me, it’s good.

She snarled up her nose and said, Fine. I’m putting my appetite in your hands. You’d better not disappoint me.

I’ll bet you a hundred bucks you’ll love the food.

She extended her hand. I’ll take that bet.

***

Remy was extremely uncomfortable taking Ryan to lunch. After the kiss they’d shared in the office, things felt…strange. The tension in the vehicle was thick enough to spread on a piece of toast and he wasn’t sure how he should act. He kept replaying the moment in his head. It was like a vine video that continued to show his moment of stupidity. Even though he told himself to shut up more times than he could count, Remy couldn’t help but smile about the kiss. It was monumental and if he were honest with himself, he could admit he wanted to do it again. But maybe tomorrow it would disappear from his memory bank so he could get things back to normal. If it didn’t, it was going to be hell trying to work alongside Ryan without having lewd thoughts about her.

After pulling into a parking spot at The Grouper Grill, Remy got out and rounded the front of his car. If nothing else, he was a gentleman—so it was a no-brainer to open her door for her. But when he did, Ryan shot him a look that asked what the hell are you doing? Backing up, he decided it wasn’t the time to be chivalrous. She ended up getting out and stood close enough he could smell the floral scent of her shampoo…or was that her perfume? Shit, he had to stop thinking of her as a sexy female and start seeing her as a work partner.

Grasping for straws on what to say, he went with, Doesn’t look too crowded today. We should be able to get a table fairly quick.

That’s good, she didn’t look him in the eye. Are you going to move so we can go in? She asked with an annoyed expression.

He stepped aside, Yeah, sorry about that.

Ryan took the lead and headed into the restaurant. As they approached the hostess stand, a young man smiled and asked, Just two? They nodded as he dug around in the podium for a couple menus. Follow me.

Sitting across from each other by a large window, both began combing over their menus without speaking. The awkwardness of the situation was agonizing.

What can I get you to drink? An older lady stood at the edge of the table with an ink pen in one hand and a small pad of paper in the other.

Sweet tea for me, Remy said. He never was a fan of tea but since moving to the south, he couldn’t live without the sweet syrupy beverage.

Just water, thanks. Ryan smiled at the woman.

Are you ready to order or do you need a few minutes? The waitress asked.

I think we’re ready, Remy said while looking across the table.

I’ll have the deluxe salad. She placed her order with the older looking waitress.

What seafood do you want on it? The lady asked.

Um, how about shrimp. She folded the menu and handed it back to the lady.

And for you? The waitress turned to him and asked.

Give me the lobster po’ boy with a side of seasoned fries. He handed the menu over to her. The woman didn’t reply or even smile for that matter.

It wasn’t long and their drinks were dropped off at the table by the cranky waitress.

Are shrimp good? Ryan took a sip of her iced water.

"You’ve never had shrimp?" He raised his eyebrows and asked.

"I’ve never eaten any type of seafood. Is that odd?"

I guess not. I’ve just never met anyone who had such a restricted diet. He chuckled.

I’m not very adventurous when it comes to trying new things. He watched her glance around the restaurant, her silky hair brushing her neck as she turned her head. The glimmering light brown strands shone in the sunlight that beamed in through the large picture window by their table. Her skin was exquisitely flawless with lips that weren’t overly puffy but just right.

Can you please stop staring at me? she scowled.

I’m not staring at you, he lied.

"Uh, yeah. You are."

Remy didn’t respond as they sat in silence, waiting for their food.

Here you go. The waitress came back and sat their food on the table. Need anything else? She asked in a not so peppy tone.

Nope, we’re good, Remy answered.

Not waiting, he grabbed his sandwich and took a big bite. He pulled his paper napkin to his lips and wiped off the excess mayo that seemed to be dripping from his bottom lip. Damn good as usual.

Ryan sat across the table digging around in her bowl of green leaves. She pushed a shrimp around the edge but never stuck her fork into it.

Aren’t you gonna eat that? he asked.

I’m almost afraid to. She brought her eyes to his and gave a half smile.

"Just try it." He urged.

Fine. She jammed her utensil into the crustacean and slowly brought it to her mouth. Those perfect rosy lips opened slightly and soon she was biting down on the seafood. It was tormenting to watch her chew her food. Was she trying to be seductive or was it a naturally occurring thing for her? Once she swallowed, she smiled and said, Wow, that’s pretty good.

Told you so. Looks like you owe me a hundred bucks. Remy held out his hand and laughed. Pony up.

That didn’t count. It was one sh…sh…sh… Her eyes went wide as she tried to finish her words.

Are you okay? She began shaking her head furiously—that golden brown hair flipping and flying around her oval face. When she opened her mouth to speak, nothing came out. Remy immediately recognized what was happening. Don’t move. He instructed as he jumped from his seat and ran purposefully through the restaurant—his car keys and some loose change jingling in his pockets. Darting out to the parking lot he unlocked the car and leaned over to the passenger side. Popping the glovebox open he snatched up his spare Epi-Pen that he stored in there for emergencies. He shut the door—not bothering to lock it back—and took off in a sprint back into the restaurant. When he returned to their table, Ryan was laying on her back in the floor, clutching her throat. He firmly grasped the injector with the black tip pointed down and pulled off the blue cap at the other end. He knew it was better if the injection was on bare skin so he hurriedly reached up and undid the buttons on her dress slacks. Yanking them down he said a silent prayer she was a woman who wore underwear. He was in luck. Pulling her pants down to mid-thigh, he found a spot and jabbed the tip firmly into her skin. He held it there to the count of ten, then removed it. A few seconds later, Ryan’s hands dropped from around her neck and he could hear her breathing return to a normal level. Her chest rose and fell as she inhaled more air and soon she was trying to sit up. Remy helped her to a sitting position, then held her arm to check her pulse.

How’re you feeling? he asked in a concerned tone.

I’m okay, I think. Her eyes darted around the restaurant, taking in the other concerned patrons. When she glanced down at her legs though, a look of horror landed on her face. What the… She took hold of the waistband of her slacks and began drawing them upward. "Why am I naked?" she whispered.

I had to inject this into bare skin. Remy said as he slid the injector into the carrying tube to discard it.

She quickly made sure everything was covered and stood shakily to her feet. I think we should go.

Their waitress was nearby and Remy motioned her over. Can we get the check, please?

It’s on the house. The woman said while gathering their uneaten food.

Thanks. Remy gave a small smile and followed Ryan through the restaurant. He put his hand on the small of her back to guide her just in case she felt woozy. He couldn’t help but love the feel of her on his palm. Even through her blazer it was like touching the molten core of the earth. He half wondered what that spot would feel like with no clothing covering her at all.

Chapter Three

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"I DON’T KNOW how to thank you," Ryan said as Remy drove them back to the office.

You don’t need to thank me. He pointed his gaze forward, trying not to look at her.

Why do you have an epi-pen, anyway?

I’m highly allergic to bee stings. I keep one in the car at all times just in case. He explained.

It’s a good thing you had that, I’m not sure what we would’ve done if you hadn’t. Ryan blew out a breath.

Remy sat there gripping the steering wheel like it was anchoring him when really, it wasn’t. Listen, I’m sorry about you know…undressing you. He swallowed hard, hoping she wouldn’t make a big deal out of it.

I’m not upset about it. She shrugged her slim shoulders.

Just glad you have underwear on. He tittered.

I don’t let things flap in the wind, if that’s what you’re thinking.

"I wasn’t thinking that but I am now." He said under his breath.

Luckily, he was saved when they pulled into the parking lot at the office. Ryan hurried out of his car and he was right behind her. When they swiped their ID badges, she turned to him before letting him through the entryway. I know you’re going to tell the story about how I almost died. But could you maybe leave out the part about you seeing my underwear?

Remy nodded. Not a problem. He stepped closer and whispered in her ear, By the way, I happen to love white satin.

He noticed the flustered expression on her face right before she jerked the door open but she kept her mouth shut. Remy wasn’t just messing with her though. Some of his favorite things were white satin and lace. Ryan had one of those concealed under those ghastly wool slacks and he couldn’t keep his mind off it.

Welcome back, we thought you two decided to elope. Cole teased as they walked into their office space.

We had a little complication at lunch. Remy stated.

Couldn’t get the condom on your dick? Cole started laughing.

Remy rolled his eyes and began to explain, Agent Madden didn’t know she was allergic to shellfish. I had to give her an injection with my spare epi-pen.

Are you okay? Luke asked her.

I’m fine now, thank you for your concern. She shot Luke a small smile then took a seat.

Luke grabbed a file from his desk and brought it back over. He slapped it down on Remy’s workspace. The director handed us a case. Remy flipped the brown folder open and began reading. Agent dipshit and I can’t take this one, so we’re passing it off to you two.

Remy shook his head and closed his eyes. This’s just my luck. He closed the folder and looked across the desk to Ryan.

What is it? She reached for the folder but he pulled it back.

I don’t think you want to know.

"I may not want to but if it’s a case I’m involved in, I kind of have to know. She stood and snatched the file from under his palm. Sitting back down, she opened it and began reading. Remy could pinpoint the moment when it dawned on her. Crimson crept up her neck and spread into her cheeks. Wow."

Good luck, guys. Luke said. We’ll be able to help in some capacities but the main shit is on you.

We appreciate that. Remy said.

Luke and Cole left the office while Remy sat there ready to turn in his badge.

You okay? Ryan asked.

Not really. If you’re not comfortable with this, please speak up.

"Look, I realize you’re giving me an out but I don’t want one. My job is to be professional and solve crimes. Clearly a crime is being committed and it’s our job to stop it."

This is more than simple surveillance. From what this file says, we have to go deep under cover to get close to these people.

What’s your point? She crossed her arms over her chest.

"My point is, it’s a fucking sex club. For us to get in, we have to be members."

So?

You can’t sit there and tell me this doesn’t make you uncomfortable. He scrubbed a hand over his face while she shook her head.

I’m sure there won’t be any physical contact. Those places have private rooms too. We can make sure we get one of those. They’ll think we’re in there going at it like cats in heat.

She had a point but it still felt weird. They’d have to infiltrate this club and pretend to be a couple who were aficionados of the BDSM lifestyle. Remy knew nothing of that life. He was straight vanilla when it came to entertaining a woman in his bed. In his opinion, all that shit was pointless. It was easier to get to the good parts as quickly as possible.

***

Okay, this wasn’t an ideal case for her first one in Biloxi but like she’d told Agent Archer, she could do it with no qualms. It wasn’t as if they had to have a public display of sex. They’d go in, get some information, and get the hell out. Simple as pie.

Don’t you think we should do some research on this before we walk in there blindly? he asked.

You’re probably right.

It looked as if an idea hit him. I know a guy that’s kind of into that type of stuff. We could see if he can tell us about it.

That’s a good place to start. Who’s the guy? Is he trustworthy? We don’t need someone snitching on us.

He’s cool. His name is Dash Hunter and he’s actually Cole’s brother-in-law.

If you think he’s a credible source, then I trust you. Just let me know when and where to meet.

I’ll give him a call.

Ryan hoped the Dash person was reliable and honorable. She didn’t want the news of their little operation getting out before they even began it. She was glad they had a prospect though. At least they could walk into the club with some sort of knowledge of the goings on. From what Ryan knew about the BDSM lifestyle, things could get crazy. Personally, the closest she’d ever gotten to something like that during sex was the time her ex cuffed her to the headboard with her FBI issued handcuffs. He thought it would be exciting but Ryan ended up panicking and screaming for him to undo them. She didn’t like losing control in any situation. Sex fell within those lines. There were things she was more than willing to do and there were things she wasn’t. But like she said, this was her job and she would do it to the best of her abilities.

Later in the day Ryan sat at the makeshift workspace Remy had made for her. Sure, it was basically just a corner of his desk but he was nice enough to make room for the new laptop they’d given her. They didn’t chat much while sitting there working either. It obviously bothered him that they had to do this case together. Maybe she repulsed him on some level. Maybe he didn’t think she was sexy enough to pull this shit off. Okay, there was no maybe about it. She didn’t have an erotic bone in her body. The underwear she had on were about the sexiest thing she even owned. Had it not been for that fifty dollar Victoria’s Secret gift card her friend gave her for her birthday a few months ago, she’d still be walking around in the cotton briefs she bought at Target.

Shit, it’s five-thirty. Remy announced as he stood from his chair and stretched. We have to meet Dash in fifteen minutes.

Okay, let me power this down and I’ll be ready. She shut her computer down and grabbed her blazer. Do you want me to follow you there?

We’ll take my car. I’ll drop you back by here on the way home. He walked ahead of her and through the office. A few people were still typing away on their computers and the director was basically screaming into the phone for some reason in his office. Whatever was going on, she was happy it wasn’t her fault.

Driving down the road, Remy seemed uptight. You okay? She asked.

Me? Yeah, just stressed out a bit. I’ll be okay soon though. He didn’t look her in the eye which told her he was lying. Everyone had a ‘tell’, Remy’s happened to be eye contact. She’d only worked with him for one day and she already had him figured out.

This should be it. He leaned forward, checking out the numbers on the mailboxes just to make sure he had the right house. Three forty-five, yep, this’s the right house. He parked by the curb and cut the engine. If this bothers you at any point, let me know. We’ll leave.

"I told you I’m fine. I meant it." She unbuckled her seatbelt and swung the door open.

They both walked to the front door and stood there waiting after Remy knocked a few times. Soon the door came open and Ryan couldn’t believe her eyes. Did the magnolia state breed nothing but gorgeous men? The guy standing in the doorway was nothing shy of stunning. He wore a black t-shirt and blue jeans but she could tell he was well built under that fabric. His arms were covered in sleeves of intricate tattoos, his hair in a dark blonde ponytail and the most amazing pair of electric blue eyes stared back at her.

Hey guys, come on in. He motioned with an inked arm.

Thanks for doing this. You’re pulling us out of a jam. Remy shook the other man’s hand. Oh, this is my new partner, Ryan Madden.

Wow, a lady suit. Where’d they find you at? He extended a hand her way.

Washington D.C. I was forcefully transferred here. She explained.

Good thing, this suit does nothing but bitch about being alone and shit. Gets old hearing him rant and rave at family bar-b-ques. He smacked Remy on the back. I’m Damon, by the way. But please call me Dash.

It’s a pleasure to meet you, Dash. Why the hell was she so polite all of a sudden?

Can I grab you something to drink? There’s some beer in the fridge and I think Peaches has some fruity wine shit in there.

I’ll take a beer, Remy spoke up.

Nothing for me, thank you. She added.

"Where is Brandi?" Remy took a seat on the sofa.

Book signing conference. After she was picked up by that publisher, the demand for personal appearances skyrocketed. It keeps her busy. Dash was a success story. He’d been released from prison and decided to start his life over in Biloxi. His wife was a NYT Bestselling romance author and quite the handful. After handing Remy a brown bottle he asked. So, what can I do for the two of you?

For the next ten minutes Remy explained what they needed to know. Ryan knew he felt uncomfortable with telling the details but someone had to do it. Once he was finished, he sat back and took a long pull from his bottle.

So basically, you need me to teach you a few things just to get by? Dash asked.

That’s right. Remy affirmed.

Not sure how I’m going to do that. Dash scratched his chin. She looks about as warm as a fucking ice cube.

Hey, wait just one damn minute! Ryan propped her hands on her hips and glared at Dash.

You don’t exactly look like the submissive type. He joked.

Why do I have to be submissive? Can’t he fill that role? She pointed to her partner.

Not happening. I’m not gonna walk in that place and let you spank me and stick things up my ass. Remy stood and downed the rest of his beer. Either you’re the Sub or we call this shit off. He added.

She’d come down to Mississippi to prove herself and she wasn’t backing down. If that meant she had to be shackled to something while having hot wax poured on her, so be it. Fine, I’ll be the sub.

Good, glad we have that shit out of the way. Dash set his drink on the coffee table. Strip. He told her.

"Wait, what?" Her eyes went wide.

Strip down to your bra and panties. He motioned to her clothing.

"Absolutely not. I don’t see what this has to do with the case."

Dash crossed his arms and shot her a glance that caused shivers to run down her spine. Look, you have to be able to trust your Dom. He needs to know where to touch you to incite the most reaction.

Nope, still not taking my clothes of.

Then there’s the door. Don’t let it hit you where the good lord split you. Dash left the room.

This is ridiculous. He’s probably just trying to see what I look like without my clothing.

Remy walked across the room. "Take your fucking clothes off, Ryan. He stood toe to toe with her. Either take them off, or I’ll take them off for you."

Her head snapped up at his dominant tone. No, she whispered.

Fine. Remy began to unbuttoning her blazer. Once the two buttons were undone, he pulled the front open and let it slide off her shoulders. It fell to the floor and Ryan stood there frozen. Her eyes couldn’t seem to move from watching his hands as he now pushed the small buttons of her shirt through their holes. Doing the same as the blazer, he had her crisp white shirt on the floor joining the other garment. She now stood there in her dress slacks and her bra. Remy leaned forward and whispered in her ear, I’ve already seen your panties. He grabbed the waistband of her slacks and undid them. It wasn’t long and she was stepping out of the pants.

Did you suits decide…? Dash said as he walked back into the living room. I guess that answers my question. He snickered.

Ryan crossed her arms over her chest in a way to conceal herself. I don’t know if I can do this. She kept eye contact with Remy.

Sure you can. Dash began. "You’re playing a part. This isn’t for real. Just remember that and you’ll be golden. Now, what turns you on?"

Excuse me? She asked.

During foreplay or actual sex, what hits your hot buttons? He clarified.

I’m not exactly comfortable talking about this with strangers.

"You’d better learn how to be." Dash stood behind her now.

Um, kissing? She said.

That sounded like you’re not really sure about it. I need you to be one thousand percent sure.

Then yes, kissing turns me on. She admitted. Now Remy would know that the kiss they’d shared had affected her. Fucking wonderful.

What happens when a man kisses you? Dash was closer to her back now while Remy still stood toe to toe.

Do I have to do this? She whined.

Yes. Both men said in unison. Dash then continued, "I want