The Devil's Son: The Devil's Eyes, #3

By Jennifer Loren

Chief of Police, Brady Simone is determined to go after the man that killed his parents but his new brother-in-law, Nicholas Jayzon, is doing everything he can to point him away from the man known as "The Barron". The Barron, or rather, Dennis Savage, has inflicted his own kind of evil on people for longer than anyone can remember. Savage has no fear because no one can touch him, no one can get near him ... except Nick.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Jennifer Loren
• Release date: Jul 6, 2020
• ISBN: 9781393560890

Jennifer Loren

Jennifer Loren graduated from Rochester Institute of Technology with a Fine Arts Degree, specializing in Architecture and Design. She currently lives in Atlanta, Georgia with her German shepherd, Nick. In addition to the vastly popular, top mafia romance and bestselling series, The Devil’s Eyes, Ms. Loren has successfully published bestselling romantic suspense novel Finding Ava and its sequel Reckless and the bestselling short story, The Hand That Holds Mine. Her mafia series, The Laws of Kings, and its sequel Dethroning the King along with standalone novel Undercover – Secrets & Lies have also been released with great reviews. Her writing genre is considered dark, romantic suspense, and mafia romance. Her books tend to have a lot of humor, which is why she is currently branching out into comedic books and children's books. Her first children's book, the award-winning The Awkward Puppy has been highly rated and loved by children and adults.  @JenniferLorenDE https://www.jenniferloren.com https://www.facebook.com/JenniferLoren.Author http://www.youtube.com/user/LorenJennifer Books By Jennifer Loren The Finding Ava Series Finding Ava Reckless The Long Road The Devil’s Eyes Series The Devil’s Eyes The Devil’s Revenge The Devil’s Son The Devil’s Masquerade: The Poison The Devil’s Masquerade: The Remedy The New Devil in Charge The Devil Forgotten Fate Escape The Laws of Kings Series The Laws of Kings Dethroning the King Undercover Undercover: Secrets & Lies Short Story The Hand That Holds Mine

Book preview

Prologue

Nick

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They tell me that father was, at one time, much the same with me as he was with my other siblings: apathetic and unmoved by our cries. That is, until one summer day when everything changed between him and me. My mother worked for him; she always worked for him, the only reason I believe he stuck around. My mother, however, was so infatuated, no bewitched, by him that she could see no one else, including me. She barely acknowledged my birth, and once I was able to sit up, she was content to leave me alone with no concern.

They said it was boiling hot that day. Everyone in the neighborhood sat outside trying to find some kind of shade, some kind of relief from the sun. Thankfully, my mother was kind enough to leave me playing under a tree while she hung laundry. Humming her hypnotic tune, she never noticed the man who had taken a sudden interest in me or his rapid approach to take me from my playpen. But my father did, and something inside him raged to the forefront like never before. With everything he had, he chased the man down and took me back into his own arms. There were no words spoken, no hands lifted even, as the man fell to his knees and cried out in pain.

They say they thought it was the embarrassment of his sickness that caused the man to surrender so easily; it seemed reasonable to assume such. It seemed reasonable until they saw ... him ... them, the power in his eyes, the controlled rage that boiled and concentrated in the man’s heart. That man collapsed at my father’s feet and was left there to go cold in the blazing sun. My mother once said my father had the power of a thousand men within a blink of his eye. The rage of the devil, they say, that’s what killed that man and that’s what kept people from ever crossing my father, the devil himself, and me ... the devil’s son.

Chapter 1

Nick

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I have considered my options for days. Even considered making Brady disappear, but once I saw my sister’s blissful expression in her new wedding dress, I was convinced to think otherwise. I have never seen her so happy. My disgust for Brady is clearly outweighed by the love I have for my sister. For her, despite him, I have to figure out how to keep that fool alive so she can remain happy. Brady’s constant pursuit of The Barron has caused me major headaches. I have done everything to cut him off and detour him away from the right path. I wasn’t exactly sure who The Barron was until Estrella confirmed it, but I have always had a good idea. The Barron, otherwise known as Dennis Savage, is not one you cross or even attempt to think about crossing. I don’t like putting myself in his path, but I am hoping that I can thwart Brady’s determination to destruction with an honest plea to an old family acquaintance.

I have known of Dennis Savage since I was a kid. I remember hiding behind my father’s coat tails as the man looked me over. No one dared to cross him, and the man never, ever, seemed worried. He feared no one, and you knew it from the moment you met him. I only saw him angry once, and my father was the object of his rage. Ever since, I have managed to stay out of his crosshairs and keep a civil respect between the two of us.

I am not surprised that he agreed to meet with me, but I am surprised that I agreed to meet him at his home. Am I brave or stupid? Of that, I am not sure. No matter, I drive myself and go alone. I don’t want to risk my own people going up against him, and no matter my uncertainty about this man, I know one thing for sure - he wouldn’t hurt me.

The gate opens up to my car as soon as I pull up, and the front doors are already standing open with greeters as I get out. One stands out from the others, frigid and silent. He simply nods and waves his hand towards the doors. Crossing in front of me, he guides me into the house, and with his head held low, he walks a perfectly straight line down the marbled path. The cold muteness that sits in the air weighs heavy, but the stiff emptiness of my greeter sends chills down my spine. The only thing worse is the ominous, gothic décor of the home. It is rich and beloved by its owner but lacks the warmth I would consider for my own home. My sons would run screaming from this house, like a Halloween nightmare. The silent man motions for me to wait in an office while others come in, offering me food and drink as if I am going to stay for longer than I wish. Everything about this room is uncomfortable, but nothing more so than the highlighted artwork that sits behind the commanding desk chair. The demon, encapsulated in the artwork, stares at me with desiring eyes, heating my flesh to its devouring temperature.

Savage walks in, or rather floats in, with his confidence carrying him like he is on a cloud. He clutches a cane as if he desires to look feeble, but the ruby-eyed dragon at the head causes him to look anything but. Its fiery eyes beam in my direction as Savage stands it straight up at his side, readying it for attack. Nicholas, he hisses. So happy to see you again. I stand and greet him with a handshake that causes our eyes to meet and a smile to deepen into his unmarred face. I see you admiring my favorite piece. It is Asmodeus. I glance at the demon once again, recalling the name of the lust-filled devil, The King of Demons. I don’t know why I treasure it so. Maybe it is because it just seems so fitting in this room.

Nodding respectfully, I wait for him to sit before speaking. Mr. Savage, thank you for meeting with me, I say, doing my best to disguise my impatience to leave.

Please, call me Dennis. All this time and you still don’t feel comfortable calling me by my name? We are, after all, old family friends, he says, analyzing my expression to see how much I recall of our family history.

Dennis, then. I am going to get right to the point of my visit, Dennis, I wanted to warn you that the police are aware of who you are. They now know you are The Baron. He doesn’t even budge or does his smile diminish any. They are coming after you, and one in particular is determined.

I appreciate you letting me know. I assure you, though, it will not be a problem. This person, whoever he is, will not be a problem for me, he says, calmly sitting back in his chair.

I have no doubt about that, but I would like to ask that you forego destroying this person, and instead, give him a smaller bone to chew on, a victory to appease him long enough for me to talk him out of coming after you.

Savage sits up and gazes over at me as if he is trying to read my mind. Why? Why, Nicholas, are you so intent on sparing this man?

Let’s just say, I owe him one.

Just one? he asks, but I simply raise my eyes to his and wait as his smile emerges once again. Well, this is interesting, something new for me to ponder today. He sits back. "I do love new things. Life has become too routine lately. Sometimes, I wish things weren’t always so easy; there is no excitement anymore. I tell you what, I will not touch a hair on the man’s head if you come and work for me, Nicholas." He sings my name with want, and suddenly, the sounds of my father’s voice ring loudly in my head.

You know I can’t do that, I say as he laughs softly to himself.

I do not like hearing that. What is holding you back? Your father is gone now. If you join me, you would want for nothing.

I already have everything I want. I don’t need anything more.

Yes, I have watched you grow into a fine man. A family man, even. Your wife is quite beautiful. Kayla, right? I nod simply. "And two sons is it now? Glancing up at him, my muscles tense, my heart pounds, and I breathe, carefully. The oldest resembles you quite a bit. I saw him once with his mother. There is nothing I can say right now. I know well enough to stay quiet and speak nothing of my son. Yes, Nicky I believe, he is quite something, much like his father indeed. My silence amuses him, but he moves on. If I recall correctly, you were never going to have children?"

I was young when I said that. I grew up and changed my mind.

Savage laughs fully. You changed your mind? I doubt that. No, Nicholas, you didn’t change your mind at all. She ... he says, looking me over to verify his accusation. "... yes, she changed your mind. Interesting woman, I must say. She walked right past me one day, leaving nothing but her invigorating scent for me to inhale, he says, trailing off as he closes his eyes and hums his appreciation for my wife’s fragrance while I do my best to remain calm. Now, Nicky, our eyes meet, and I instantly meet him face to face with clenched fists. Are you ready to take me on, Nicholas? Ahhh, you are so much like your father, trying to hide your precious secrets from me. I already know the boy is special, but is he as special as his father? That is the only thing I don’t know for sure. Eyeing me carefully, he continues. Tell me. How did Saldean die? How did Dante ...," Savage stands back with a sudden understanding while I finally admit the truth to myself. Saldean, I can still recall my father saying his name, screaming his name before, he died. Nicky... does he ...?

Before he can finish that question, I step away towards the door. Thank you for meeting with me, Dennis. I appreciate your time to hear me out, but I think our business is done.

What’s the rush? Savage sits back in his chair, salivating over his new knowledge.

My family is not something I am willing to discuss with you. And just so you know, like my father, my son is one boundary I won’t allow you to cross. I wait for him to nod before turning my vulnerable back to him.

Oh Nicholas, about your request, the cop, a Brady Simone, correct? Looking back, I catch sight of his knowing expression and nod. I will not harm him, and you can rest assured that he will be kept busy with plenty of rewards soon. If he has done you such an important favor, then it is certain that I owe him, too. Savage leans back in his chair again, staring out the window with a searing smile. And do please say hello to your family for me. I do hope to meet them all one day. I don’t bother responding, despite my objection to him ever coming near my family. My only goal right now is to wash away my past, get home to my family, and protect them with every muscle, every ability, and every power I have.

Chapter 2

Nick

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Walking along my side, Nicky holds tightly to my hand as he tries his best to duplicate my swagger. It’s difficult not to laugh at my miniature self, but I also have to admit, I couldn’t feel more proud of him. My son is special and, unfortunately, not only to me. The recent events have me watching over him more than usual. I want to take some time to talk to him and make sure he understands who he is and, most importantly, who will not understand. The downtown creamery is quiet this time of day, and my son’s eyes light up at the sight of all the possibilities in front of him. Now, let’s not tell Mommy we had ice cream for lunch, okay? Nicky nods, folding his little hands in front of him, eagerly waiting for our server.

Hello gentlemen. How are we today? The waitress says, smiling at my son and turning to me with freshly moistened lips.

We are good, I say, watching my son roll his eyes as the waitress eyes me up and down. We want two specials with two mint chocolate chip ice cream bowls, but we are going to have our ice cream with our meal instead of after.

Oh, being naughty already today, she says with a wide smile.

Before I can respond, Nicky huffs his way back into our conversation. We can’t tell Mommy because she won’t like it.

Well, cutie, I will certainly keep you and your daddy’s secret, she says before turning back to me. I am very good at keeping secrets, especially from Mommies.

That’s good ‘cause Mommy carries a gun, and she is not afraid to use it, Nicky says, causing the waitress to glance his way before looking back at me to verify. I nod and indicate with my hands that is a sizable gun.

Well, I will get your food right out to you, she exhales and rushes off.

She’s annoying. And not as pretty as Mommy, Nicky huffs.

I agree. She doesn’t even come close to Mommy, I say.

Daddy, look! A dog! Nicky jumps up and points out the window. A large mutt passes by and wanders into the alley, snooping for food. He looks hungry. We should bring him some food.

Maybe when we’re done. Nicky, turn around and sit in your seat before you fall. He does as I ask, but his eyes continue to linger to the stray dog. Nicky, look at me. I need to talk to you about something. Do you remember what we talked about the other day? About our secret?

He nods. Don’t do it anymore unless you say it is okay. And don’t tell Mommy cause she’ll worry.

Yes, and I want you to be careful around people you don’t know. They don’t always want to be nice to you, but you let Daddy take care of that, okay?

Okay, Daddy. But can I ...? I shake my head, and his shoulders instantly sink, only perking back up when his ice cream is placed in front of him. He pushes his sandwich far aside and takes full ownership of his favorite flavor.

Before I can say anything else, Ryan calls. Eat your ice cream, Nicky, and at least a bite of that sandwich so we can tell your mother you did. Okay Ryan, what do you need?

Nick, I swear this woman is driving me crazy! he grumbles.

If you would just listen to me for once, we could have been done hours ago. Kayla snaps in the background.

You see what I am putting up with? I thought you said for me to handle it. Why is she here? Ryan gripes.

The arguing between these two lately is going to send me to an early grave. Put her on the phone.

Your husband wants to tell you to shut up and listen to me, Ryan smarts off.

Hi, Baby. Are you having a good day? How is Nicky? You remembered to pick him from school, didn’t you? Kayla says sweetly, but I can tell she is cursing Ryan behind her hand.

Yes, I did. He is eating lunch with me right now. Kayla, why are you with Ryan? I told him to take care of it, I ask her with frustration in my voice.

Nick, I thought he could use my help. I am so much more effective with these things than he and ...

Oh bullshit! You’re just trying to get even with me for teaching Nicky how to greet women, Ryan yells.

It wasn’t proper; it was disgusting! You’re disgusting, and if you would just shut up and realize I know more ...

Kayla! I snap, hiding my frustration from my son.

Yes, Nick? she asks with shock.

Rolling my eyes, I have to force a breath to calm myself as I try to figure out a solution that will get these two to stop bickering. Can you please let it go? I know he has been pushing your buttons a lot lately, but can you find another way to annoy him that is not at the expense of our business? Please, Princess. I promise I will make it worth your efforts. Pondering my offer, she is silent for some time, but I know my wife and what she likes. Hiding my mouth, I whisper, with great detail, every place on her body I plan to pay special attention to tonight.

I suppose, Nick, but you better make it worth my effort... every day. Her smile echoes through my phone.

Oh, Princess. You know I will. Thank you. I love you.

I love you too. Your brother, however, is a nuisance, and if I hear one more disgusting thing come out of my son’s mouth, I am going to hurt him severely, she says as Ryan huffs in the background.

Understood. I will talk to him when I get home, and then I will take care of you. Kayla happily gives me my way for now, and I can have peace for a little while longer. Hanging up my phone, I look up to an empty seat and immediately begin searching for my son. Nicky! My muscles tense as I stand up, frantically searching for him. After what seems like eternity, I spot him across the street in the alley with the dog. Sighing, I throw some cash on the table and rush off to get him. Nicky! I yell to him, but my efforts are drowned out by a group of punks approaching my son. My world begins to move slowly around me as I attempt to hurry traffic along to get to him. I try to remind myself to remain calm, but everything within me starts to heat up.

Stop! You’re hurting him! Nicky yells.

Who are you to tell us to do anything? one punk yells.

I’m Nicky Jayzon! I round the corner as the teenager walks up to my six-year-old son and grabs him, forcing him to watch as his pathetic friends beat the dog. Before I can stop him, the punk releases my son and crashes to the ground, writhing in pain.

His friends turn in shock. What did you do? You want a beating too, kid? Nicky fists his hands and stiffens, standing his ground despite being outnumbered. My son, definitely my son, oh how he reminds me of my own stubborn past ...

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The day my father first held me in his arms, he stared at me for hours with my mother continually asking if he was okay. He shushed her and sat down with me in his lap, carefully watching me as I looked up and met his eyes - dead on and with no fear. He didn’t trust my mother to watch me after that day, so he took me wherever he went: the store, the post office, and the home of whatever woman he had met along the way. He didn’t understand children, and he certainly didn’t understand how to take care of one. He would give me a book or a game with no understanding of what might be appropriate for my age. When he realized I couldn’t read yet, he sat me down and read one book to me until he thought I had memorized it well enough to read it on my own.

The older I got, the more I learned. What I couldn’t learn from books, I learned from him and his female friends. My father was never one to shy away from women, or they from him. His exceptional taste in style was only outmatched by his extraordinarily good looks, and he knew it. I always watched him, curious as to why people treated him the way they did. Everyone he encountered was ensnared in his spell, much like my older brother, Connor’s, mother. Connor was the bane of my existence, and he hated me even more than I did him.

My first meeting with Connor was when I was six years old. My father had taken me out with him on his usual patrol for new women. He dressed me as he would dress, impeccably. The man never had a hair out of place and always dressed like he owned everything, yet we still lived in the worst part of town. Strolling through the city with no place to go, my father talked to me like I was his equal, like I could understand every adult issue he had. I think talking to me made him feel better, especially since I rarely spoke.

Connor and his mother were on their way to meet his stepfather. Connor was seven years older than me and quite aware that we shared the same father. His mother, like all my father’s women, was infatuated with him, and as much as she wanted to pretend to hate him that day, she couldn’t. She, with Connor at her side, approached us with an angry face.

Hello Sylvia, my father sang in his seductive tone.

Oh Dante, I’ve missed you. Sylvia embraced him, instantly falling into his arms.

I am sure you have, but you’re married now. Gripping my father tighter, Sylvia whispered her desires to him, begging for his attention. My father looked around and noticed the creamery at the end of the block. Nicholas, would you like to get some ice cream? I nodded, and my father escorted us all to the creamery where he set me up in a booth and ordered a bowl of mint chocolate chip, my favorite. I didn’t notice my father and Sylvia leave, but I did notice Connor crashing into the seat across from me.

So are you going to share that ice cream, jerk off? Connor asked. I silently looked up at him as he twisted his expression into something more menacing. So, give it to me. I shook my head and continued eating. A growl pushed through Connor’s tight lips, and with an understanding of his intentions, I quickly moved the bowl from his reach. You better give me that ice cream or I will make you regret it. I smiled and stuffed another spoonful in my mouth, enjoying our game. You think that’s funny? Connor said, reaching over the table to grab me, but just before his hand reached my face, I eyed him dead on, causing a painful, trembling energy within his hand. Wide eyed, his fury came at me with both fists until my father pulled him off me.

Sylvia, take your son and leave my sight, my father said, grabbing Connor by the arm and handing him over to her.

But Dante! she begged.

He pushed the desperate woman away from him, and shouted, Now! After they left, my father sat me down and looked me over, cleaning the blood from my lip. "You have to be careful of your anger, Nicholas. It