Lawfully Vindicated: The Lawkeepers Historical Romance Series, #4

By Elle E. Kay

His choice. Her fate.

 

Fleeing an abusive fiancé, Katherine Bryan turns to a man who specializes in protecting people. Now, she just has to convince him to help by marrying her.

That's a tall order and a ticket to trouble when her wealthy father finds out.

US Marshal David Neagle wants to make the marriage work, but he has little to offer a city socialite. Will class divide them forever or can love and faith create a real connection?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Faith Writes Publishing
• Release date: Mar 26, 2021
• ISBN: 9781950240074

Book preview

Books by Elle E. Kay

Faith Writes Publishing

Endless Mountain Series

Shadowing Stella

Implicating Claudia

Chasing Sofie

The Lawkeepers Contemporary Romance Series

Lawfully Held

A K-9 Lawkeeper Romance

Lawfully Defended

A SWAT Lawkeeper Romance

Lawfully Guarded

A Billionaire Bodyguard Lawkeeper Romance

The Lawkeepers Historical Romance Series

Lawfully Taken

A Bounty Hunter Lawkeeper Romance

Lawfully Given

A Christmas Lawkeeper Romance

Lawfully Promised

A Texas Ranger Lawkeeper Romance

Lawfully Vindicated

A US Marshal Lawkeeper Romance

Blushing Brides Series

The Billionaire’s Reluctant Bride

The Bodyguard’s Fake Bride

Heroes of Freedom Ridge Series

Healing the Hero

A Christian Army Ranger Christmas Romance

Standalone Novella

Holly’s Noel

This book is dedicated to my husband.

Introduction to The Lawkeepers Series

There’s just something fascinating about a man wearing an emblem of authority. The way the light gleams off that shiny star on his badge makes us stare with respect. Couple that with a uniform hugging his body in just the right way, confidence, and mission to save and protect, it’s no wonder we want to know what lies underneath. 

Yes, what echoes deep inside those beating hearts is inspiring. Certainly appealing. Definitely enticing. Although those ripped muscles and strong shoulders can make a woman’s heart skip a beat—or two—it takes a strong, confident person to choose to love someone who risks it all every day. Anyone willing to become part of a lawkeeper’s world might have a story of their own to tell. 

The undeniable charisma lawmen possess make all of us pause and take note. It’s probably why there are so many movies and TV shows themed around the justice system. We’re enthralled by their ability to save babies, help strangers, and rescue damsels in distress. We’re captivated by their ability to protect and save, defend the innocent, risk their lives, and face danger without hesitation. Of course, we expect our heroes to stay solid when we’re in a mess. We count on them for safety, security, and peace of mind. From yesterday to today, that truth remains constant. 

Their valor inspires us, their integrity comforts, and their courage melts our hearts—irresistibly.  But there’s far more to them than their courageous efforts. How do they deal with the difficulties they face? Can they balance work and life? And how do they find time for love outside their life of service? 

We want to invite you on a journey—come with us as we explore the complex lives of the men and women who serve and protect us every day. Join us in a fast-paced world of adventure. Walk into our tight-knit world of close friendships, extended family, and danger—as our superheroes navigate the most treacherous path of all—the road to love. 

The Lawkeepers. Historical and modern-day superheroes; men and women of bravery and valor, taking love and law seriously. A multi-author series, sure to lock up your attention and take your heart into custody. 

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The Lawkeepers is a multi-author series alternating between historical westerns and contemporary westerns featuring law enforcement heroes that span multiple agencies and generations. Join bestselling authors Jenna Brandt, Lorana Hoopes, Elle E. Kay, Evangeline Kelly, Ginny Sterling, and more as they weave captivating, sweet, and inspirational stories of romance and suspense between the lawkeepers — and the women who love them.

The Lawkeepers is a world like no other; a world where lawkeepers and heroes are honored with unforgettable stories, characters, and love.

** Note: Each book in The Lawkeepers series is a standalone book, and part of a mini-series. You can read these books in any order.

Chapter 1

US Marshal, David Neagle, scowled as he watched Sarah Althea Terry board the train with her husband, former Chief Justice Terry. A redheaded woman accompanied them, and he briefly wondered who she might be. He nudged Justice Field to make him aware of the Terry couple’s arrival. Marshal Franks had assigned him to protect the Justice from all threats, but the Terrys were the most significant risk he faced. As the trio took their seats, David kept watch and planned for how to deal with their unexpected appearance.

Later that night, after the porter came and pulled down the beds, Justice Field got settled in the Pullman sleeper, and David opened his Bible. Whenever he sought wisdom, the first place he turned was God’s word. That night was no exception.

The following morning, he suggested that Justice Field take his breakfast on the train, but his ornery client refused his advice and insisted on eating in the dining room inside Lathrop Station with the other passengers regardless of the risk.

David was on alert as his charge ate his meal. He took a step closer to the Justice as Mr. Terry approached the table. When the man placed his hands on the table and leaned closer, the marshal put his hand on the butt of his Peacemaker.

I warned you. The blood vessels on Mr. Terry’s face bulged as he raised his hand to Justice Field. He slapped the Justice twice before the marshal stepped between them.

You should’ve heeded my advice. That verdict will cost you your life.

David placed a hand on Mr. Terry's shoulder, nudging him away from Justice Field. The enraged man shoved him out of his way and reached into his coat.

I’m a US Marshal. Stop what you’re doing, He commanded.

Mr. Terry ignored his warning and continued to reach inside his jacket. Before the man could get to his weapon, David drew and fired leaving a bullet wound in the other man's chest. Justice Field remained seated and finished his breakfast while Mr. Terry lay dying on the floor. Shocked patrons scrambled to escape the mayhem as two women hurried toward the commotion.

Mrs. Terry gripped a handkerchief to her chest, and when she neared them, she withdrew the Colt hidden inside. Her companion grabbed for the gun. Allie, no! He watched in amazement as the woman wrestled the revolver from Mrs. Terry’s grip before she could shoot. David wasn’t entirely sure if she’d intended to shoot him or Justice Field, but he was grateful the redheaded beauty interfered with her plans.

Mrs. Terry stomped her right foot. Someone get Sheriff Cunningham and have him arrest this man. He murdered my husband! Her companion consoled her, but it was no use. The enraged woman threw herself at David and clawed at his neck and face. When he strove to restrain her, she bit him. He made another grab for her, and she kicked him. After several tries, he got the handcuffs on her. Sarah Althea Terry, you are under arrest for the attempted murder of US Supreme Court Justice Field.

You can’t prove I planned to kill him. Mrs. Terry held her posture rigid and attempted to look dignified.

You’ve made public threats against the Justice. He yanked her toward the train platform. It won’t be difficult to prove in court.

The redhead interrupted before he could board the train with Mrs. Terry. Marshal, the sheriff’s here. She pointed a delicate finger at the man approaching them.

The sheriff drew his weapon and trained it on the marshal. Sir, unhand Mrs. Terry.

She’s under arrest.

I’m the law here, and I say she’s not.

I am an officer. A US Marshal.

We don’t recognize your authority here in the San Joaquin Valley, so you’d best let the lady go.

David uncuffed Mrs. Terry. You’re making a mistake.

Put your hands behind your back, sir.

You’re arresting me?

Both you and Justice Field.

The marshal put his hands behind his back, allowing the local sheriff to cuff him.

A black and white photo of a crowd of people Description automatically generated with medium confidence

David sat bolt upright when he awoke in the jail cell. It rankled that he was sitting in a cell while Sarah Althea Terry was a free woman. He wondered why the local lawman would arrest him for doing his job and let a criminal go free. How could anyone put jurisdictional squabbles ahead of the law?

Justice Field entered his line of vision. Sorry about this, Marshal.

I thought they arrested you, too.

They did, but they released me on my own recognizance. Sheriff Cunningham, he pointed over his shoulder with his thumb, isn’t happy about my release, and he’s downright annoyed that I’m working to get you out.

Hoping that will happen soon. This cot isn’t the most comfortable bed I’ve slept in.

I’ll have you out of here shortly. Justice Field nodded and hurried from the jail.

An hour later, Mrs. Terry’s companion showed up outside his cell.

What are you doing here, Miss?

She twirled a loose strand of hair that had fallen out of her bun. I understand if my presence is not welcomed, considering my relation to Allie, I mean, Mrs. Terry.

Miss, your presence is welcome, but it is not decent for a woman to visit a man in jail.

Yes, I know. Forgive the impropriety, sir.

Please tell me what prompted your visit, Miss.

My name is Katherine Bryan. Mrs. Terry is my cousin.

If you’re concerned with your presence during Mrs. Terry’s crimes, you may rest-assured I have no intention of bringing charges against you. You wrested the Colt from her, so you should be commended for your quick reaction. You may have saved the lives of both me and Justice Field.

That may be the case, but it isn’t my own neck I’m worried about. I’m hoping to avoid charges against Mrs. Terry.

"That will