The Devil's Defiance: The Devil Ryder, #2

By Suzie Grant

New York City Lawyer Garret Ryder takes the law into his own hands when a vicious killer gets away with murdering his family. Nothing will stop him from delivering the justice denied him by the law he vowed to uphold. But when the killer kidnaps a judge's daughter, his childhood sweetheart, he must decide if any price is too high to exact revenge. San Antonio socialite Sophia Maria Osbourne doesn't trust easily. With a dirty politician and a blackmailing judge for a father, she learned not to rely on anyone but herself. But when her father's shady dealings lead to her kidnapping, she must place her faith in the man who stole her heart long ago, if she hopes to survive.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Suzie Grant
• Release date: May 3, 2022
• ISBN: 9798201064471

Suzie Grant

My  life has been one big adventure.  My childhood was full of reading the classics like Treasure Isle, Robinson Crusoe, and The Swiss Family Robinson tales. In fact my mother has another word for my “stories” but to this day, I continue to dream up adventures of my own. ​As a pregnant teen my adventure became a life-defining moment as I struggled to survive and raise a child. During those rocky years writing became an emotional outlet. After a very long divorce I again found myself climbing that rocky path of life and have learned to live by a single quote: “Obstacles are placed in our path to determine whether we really wanted something, or just thought we did.” By Dr. Harold Smith. ​Taking life by the proverbial horns, I now live happily ever after with my new beau, and three boys in NC. One day I plan to retire and sail along the east coast, an adventurer to the end.

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Praise for Suzie Grant’s Valkyrie’s Vengeance

The Author creates a fascinating tale of treachery, destiny, romance and Viking lore. A Night Owl’s Top pick

The action had me from the very first sentence! Risque Reviews Top Pick

Ms. Grant quickly draws the reader in this riveting, action-packed, fast-paced drama that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat! This book has all the components of a Pirates of the Caribbean Movie!" AJ’s Reading Nook

The characters and events portrayed in this book are fictitious. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental and not intended by the author.

Book Title

Copyright © 2012 by Suzie Grant

Night Shift Publishing

Cover Design by Heather Boyd

Edited by Tara Chevrestt

Smashwords Edition

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form by any electronic or mechanical means—except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles or reviews—without written permission.

For more information: http://www.suziegrantauthor.com/

New York City Lawyer Garret Ryder takes the law into his own hands when a vicious killer gets away with murdering his family. Nothing will stop him from delivering the justice denied him by the law he vowed to uphold. But when the killer kidnaps a judge’s daughter, his childhood sweetheart, he must decide if any price is too high to exact revenge.

San Antonio socialite Sophia Maria Osbourne doesn’t trust easily. With a dirty politician and a blackmailing judge for a father, she learned not to rely on anyone but herself. But when her father’s shady dealings lead to her kidnapping, she must place her faith in the man who stole her heart long ago, if she hopes to survive.

Dedication

To my beautiful mother for always showing me what a lady should be. Sadly, I’ll never be quite the lady she is but she loves me just the same. Special thanks to my editor for the short notice edits. You’ve been such a godsend!

~ Chapter 1 ~

Outside of San Antonio, Texas

Summer, 1875

The idea of a lynch mob normally rubbed Garret Ryder wrong, but for the first time, he reconsidered. Should one form once they reached San Antonio, Garret could almost convince himself to turn a blind eye. Almost. The three day trip from Eden seemed to drag. Escorting a mouthy prisoner didn’t help matters any.

Sid Gerard leered, peering through the bars of the paddy wagon. Did New York City turn you into a greenhorn, Ryder? Or a yellowbelly like yer brother?

Garret ignored the prisoner and kept his mare at a steady pace next to the transport. Eden’s deputy kept the wagon on course, leaned over to spit on the ground, and wiped his mouth on his dirty, rolled up sleeve. Gerard is jist trying to rattle ya, fancyman.

I’m well aware of what Sid is trying to accomplish, Garret shot back, grimacing at the man’s lack of manners.

The deputy chuckled and nudged his comrade sitting next to him on the bench. He even talks fancy.

Garret lowered his black felt hat and squinted under the noon sun, trying to ignore the three men as best he could. It’s called an education, deputy. We’re a few miles out of San Antonio. I would appreciate all chatter kept to a minimum.

The deputy laughed. Is that another way to say ‘shut the hell up’?

Absolutely.

Muted earth tones surrounded him, the only color being the cloudless powder-blue sky that stretched for infinity. A fine grain-like sand dusted the air. Sparse grass and prickly yucca plants dotted the trail, while the occasional mesquite tree jabbed into the horizon, standing watch over them as they traveled.

Garret checked his pistols for the second time in a half-hour and rolled his aching shoulder muscles, hoping to ease the tension. Apprehension slid along his spine. Transporting Sid Gerard, the same man who’d killed his father and nephew, had gone entirely too smooth. He’d expected trouble from Sid’s family, and so far he’d found none.

Perhaps he was too anxious.

After a twenty year feud with the Gerards, Garret longed to put Sid away behind bars, and shut this chapter of his life so he could return to New York City where he belonged. He’d left Texas behind years ago, so why the hell had he returned? And why the hell had he stayed over the last year? He still couldn’t seem to answer those questions. But he was determined to get this over with so he could return to some semblance of normalcy in his life.

All he knew was his father had needed him, but now with the death of his father, he was no longer obligated to stay. Assaulted by an image of blue eyes, he grimaced. He’d stayed because he owed his brother. He would pay up, then leave Texas for good.

He sighed.

He’d volunteered to prosecute Sid in San Antonio. He needed to make sure the bastard never got out and tortured his family again. Then, and only then, could he feel as if his debt had been paid in full. Although repaying his brother would never eradicate the nightmares. It would never erase the image of those blue eyes that haunted him every night.

Do you really think this wagon will hold me? Sid leered through the bars. You won’t have Gade here to protect you. When the bullets start flying, who will you have in your corner, greenhorn?

I wasn’t aware you knew how to aim, Sid. Garret cut a quick, narrowed glance at his nemesis. If I remember correctly, you couldn’t piss your way out of a boot.

Sid lurched forward with a growl. I’m gonna enjoy killin’ you when this is all over and done with. And your brothers.

When this is all over and done with, Gerard, you’ll be locked behind bars where you belong or twisting from a tree.

We’ll just see about that, Sid said, swinging an arm out from between the bars as he tried to seize hold of Garret. You better be glad I’m locked up.

I only regret not gagging you first.

Heat poured over Garret in buckets, and his head throbbed in tempo with the steady clod of the horses’ hooves. He’d hated to leave the ranch when his sister-in-law was about to have her first child. He wanted to be there for his brother, but he needed to make sure Sid got what he deserved: a dank, dark cell and meager rations.

Last year, Sid had ambushed their trail drive to the northern markets, and his nephew Luke had gotten caught in the crossfire. Losing Warren’s son had torn asunder whatever precarious peace his family had acquired. The least Garret could do, was put the killer behind bars where he belonged. He owed Warren that much at least.

The day Sid had shot their father had been the breaking point for the Ryder boys. There would be no peace between him and his brothers until the killer had been put away. His family needed to mend. And Garret would do whatever it took to make sure that happened.

San Antonio loomed on the horizon, and they rode into town accompanied by blessed silence. The group headed for the main plaza as the wagon wheels crunched against the rock-strewn drive and kicked up a cloud of dust behind them. Alameda Street turned into Commerce before they crossed the bridge. The wagon rumbled against the wood planks like thunder as the San Fernando Church steeple jabbed into the skyline ahead of them.

Turning right onto Soledad, the deputy pulled up short in front of the courthouse. A small crowd of people gathered just outside the doorway. Garret dismounted and looped the reins of his mare to the hitching post.

The jangle of keys brought his attention to the deputy. Don’t open those doors yet, Garret warned.

Why?

I want this walkway cleared and the local sheriff’s men posted at either end of this street. Sid Gerard doesn’t leave that cage until I say so. Eden’s sheriff assured me I would get complete cooperation on this.

All right. Yew the boss, fancyman.

Sid chuckled from behind him. Gotcha all knotted up, Ryder? You scared I’ll get away?

Garret whirled, seized Sid’s collar, and yanked him forward until the criminal’s forehead banged on the metal bars. "Fear has little to do with it. Let’s get something straight. The next time I have to chase you down, I’m going to forget that I’m a man of the law. Comprende?"

Sid lost his smirk, although it flickered briefly. Garret released him and set about making sure his orders were obeyed. There would be no mistakes. He’d make sure of that.

Judge Osbourne came abreast of him and clapped him on the back, dragging Garret’s attention away from the prisoner. I’m so glad you made it safely, Garret. It’s been too long since I’ve seen you, son. I can still remember when you were little and toddling around your father’s legs.

Garret’s smile faltered. Yes, those were good times, he lied. My life has never been full of good times.

The judge’s springy white brows drew together. I must say I was sad to hear of your old man passing. I lost touch with the people in Eden after my daughter and I moved here years ago, Judge Osbourne said, his Georgian twang as smooth as molasses, and he squeezed Garret’s upper arm in condolence. James was a good man.

A shaft of pain pierced Garret’s chest. Indeed he was.

I say, you should open a practice here in town. We could use a good counsel like you, Garret. The older man leaned closer. Most of the lawyers in town are as crooked as the criminals they represent. I’d be honored to have a man like you in my court.

Garret pasted on a fake smile. Not in a million years. Well, I believe after the Gerard case, Your Honor, I’ll be heading back to New York. Mother lives there and she’s slowing down a bit. I’m not sure I should leave her alone anymore.

Understandable. Family always comes first. The judge nodded, raising his gold-handled cane in response. Well, should you ever change your mind, you just let me know, young man. I’ll help you get settled.

Garret lowered his brows, making sure to recover his usual nonchalance. Thank you, Your Honor. They shook hands, but the judge held firm as the gold ring on his fat fingers glinted under the sun’s rays.

Do me a favor, will you? the judge asked, his dark eyes grave.

Anything. Garret forced a smile. What the hell could the judge possibly want from him?

Would you mind escorting my lovely daughter home? I have to deal with this nasty Gerard business and don’t have time to do it myself.

Surprise widened Garret’s gaze. Fraternizing with the judge’s daughter right before the trial got underway could potentially make things more difficult for him, especially a case as sensitive as this one was. Sir, I don’t think that’s wise... I certainly mean no offense, but...

Judge Osbourne gave his hand a good squeeze. I certainly can’t fault you for your caution. You’re a man of meticulous control, and I admire that, but you don’t worry a bit about this hearing. Understand?

Garret’s mouth dropped open, but he recovered. Before he could argue with the man, the Judge hailed his daughter from inside the dressmaker’s shop, and Garret found himself speechless for an entirely different reason. He’d never forgotten a name or a face. And Sophia Maria Osbourne had a face as unforgettable as any he’d ever seen before.

And yet, even after years away, Sophia stunned him into silence. His heart lurched inside his chest as she strolled toward him. The dark red-and-white striped bustle day dress hugged a figure only God could recreate. Dark ringlets tumbled across one shoulder under the tiny red hat she wore. Mr. Ryder, what a pleasure to see you again. It’s been entirely too long. Delicious ruby lips smoothed across her features in a teasing grin as she held out one dainty gloved hand. Exotic whiskey-colored eyes blinked under sooty lashes. High cheekbones and a small regal, nose bespoke of her mother’s Spanish origins. She was simply the most sultry beauty he’d ever seen. Has the cat got your tongue? she jested with a smile.

He leaned over and kissed the top of her gloved hand. If only a pretty smile were all it took to render me speechless, Miss Osbourne.

He’d just been given complete reassurance that his case was in the bag, as long as he took care of the Judge’s daughter today. And while he certainly didn’t mind the view, it would mean accepting a bribe, which would make him no better than the criminals he prosecuted and put away.

I’m a man of the law. The right thing would be to refuse the judge. But what would happen to my case if I did? Especially a case that was so close to his heart.

~*~

Sophia Osbourne attempted to calm her rioting senses. Sixteen years away hadn’t diminished the effect Garret Ryder had on her. A widow at the ripe, old age of twenty-eight, Sophia was no green girl. But her heart pattered to a stop before it raced ahead like a locomotive at full speed. Garret Ryder simply oozed charm as he removed his derby hat. His mussed, dark hair fell over his forehead with a rakish appeal. Even as a boy he’d been handsome but he had far surpassed her expectations. She’d never imagined the impact silver gaze would have on her. Pale, humorless, but those eyes weren’t cold by any means. Oh heavens no, they warmed under her regard, and heated to a degree that should have blistered her skin.

And, pray tell me, what does it take to render a man such as you speechless? she whispered.

He released her hand and stepped away. His was not a face that betrayed emotion easily, though she sensed his keen interest on a more instinctive level. I’ve yet to experience such a moment, but when I do, I’ll be sure to let you know.

Sophia masked the hurt with a flirtatious smile. There is always a first for everything, Mr. Ryder. Both of her hands tightened on her reticule. Surely, you’re no exception.

Indeed.

He was every inch the gentleman, from his polished boots to his well-groomed suit, and yet, from his uncompromising mouth and the jutting, square jaw, Garret Ryder lived by his own set of rules. The dual six-guns strapped to each thigh ensured he did.

He faced her father. Your Honor, as much as I appreciate the opportunity to accompany your beautiful daughter home, my purpose here was to make certain Sid remained safe until the trial. I would hate to neglect my responsibilities, even for the sake of such charming company.

Nonsense son, the deputy and I will keep everything here under control. You can rest assured all will be fine.

Garret’s jaw hardened, and Sophia pursed her lips to keep from smiling at his frustration. Wrapping her arm through his, she whispered, Escort me to my buggy, Mr. Ryder, and I’ll wait on you there as you finish your business. Sound fair to you?

He peered down at her, studying her. A hint of a smirk toyed with the corner of his lip, and Sophia caught a glimpse of the boy he once was. Together, they strolled down the boardwalk. At first, he continually glanced over his shoulder, and as she snuggled closer to his arm, he relaxed.

I still recall when we were children in school, Garret. Do you remember? Her gaze traced his lean, hard jaw and settled on those hooded silver eyes. Their boots clicked an unhurried rhythm down the boardwalk. The day we got caught in the rain on the way home from school...

The temperature seemed to rise as his attention dropped to her lips. I remember.

I was twelve, I think.

He nodded.

It was my first kiss. And I’ve thought of nothing else since that day.

We were kids...experimenting. Surely, you didn’t believe anything would come of it?

Pain lanced her heart and choked off her air. Hadn’t she believed just such a thing? She gave a nervous laugh and faced forward to hide the heat of her blush. Of course not, but it was the last time we ever saw each other. I-I simply wished to know if you remembered.

I haven’t thought of it in years, but now that you mention it, I remember...

I miss those days, she admitted. We always had so much fun...until...

Garret stiffened, released her arm, and shoved his hands in his pockets. Until my family caused such a scandal and shamed the town?

Sophia whirled to face him as they paused. No... That isn’t what I meant or what I was trying to say.

His jaw clamped tight. But it’s the truth. There’s no need to mince words, Miss Osbourne. We’re adults, and I’m not an imbecile.

Sophia gasped. I never imagined such a thing.

Your buggy is just ahead. I bid you good day. He bowed from the waist and turned on his heel to leave.

Garret!

He didn’t turn to face her.

Don’t trust my father, she said, her tone soft, uncertain.

He spun and stood before her in just a few strides, his grip on her upper arms firm. The heat of his large hands soaked through the fabric of her sleeves. Why?

Sophia stepped free of his grasp to catch her breath. He isn’t a man to trust. And I know you... she whispered. You’re an honorable man. My father has dollar bills in his eyes and he thinks he can manipulate the situation.

Garret’s dark eyebrows drew together over the bridge of his nose. What makes you believe I’m any different?

She shook her head. I just know. It’s the very reason I— she hesitated, glancing away as if embarrassed to say the words, admire you.

But you don’t admire your own father?

A disgusted sound escaped her as she crossed her hands over her chest and dropped her gaze to the ground. I cannot admire him any longer. If anyone has changed...it’s him.

He reached out and tilted her chin up. She swallowed, her pulse slowly increasing in rhythm at his touch. Why do you say that? he asked.

Because it’s the truth. He is not the same person he was when we lived in Eden. This city...these people...this job has corrupted him. He’s let money and power change who he is, and I no longer recognize him.

And what has that got to do with me?

Nothing yet. All I’m saying is don’t trust him.

Why would you care?

Sophia stepped away from him. How could she not care when she’d thought of little else? For years