Page 122 of Devil's Due

“I always wondered how the marshals got their witnesses to court.”

“Yeah, seems like they’re pretty practiced in being sneaky.”

My leg starts to bounce. Demon notices. “We’ll be there soon, Beef.”

While my brothers will be keeping watch outside, Demon and I will be in court, watching the proceedings. Just in case someone starts something inside.

Chapter Forty-Three

Iwas proud as fuck watching my old lady give her testimony in court. Nothing fazed her. Of course, it probably helped that she didn’t see the threatening glances being sent her way by the defendants. She was unwavering as she answered questions from both the defence and the prosecuting attorneys, scornfully facing down any accusation that her testimony wasn’t as credible as that of a sighted person. Her voice remained calm, and probably only I could hear the slight tremor in it. She did need water handed to her as she recalled the shots and the screams she’d heard. I was gutted she had to go through it over and over again, recognising the strain on her face as she relived it.

I’d cast sideways glances at the jury, pleased they appeared to be exchanging admiring glances as she explained clearly and concisely exactly what happened, and how she could recognise those responsible. When she’d been helped to the stand, I’d seen dubious looks as if they doubted she could give reliable testimony. But those misgivings seemed to disappear as her strong, clear voice rang through the courtroom.

When it was over, it seemed anti-climactic. There’d be no verdict that day, the jury would hear more and then take their time to deliberate their findings. But she’d done it. She’d given her testimony. There was no reason for anyone to immediately come after her, retaliation at this point wouldn’t do anything other than point fingers toward the guilty parties.

For now, Steph as I’m now free to call her, is safe.

As we walk out of the clubhouse into a warm but cloudy day, there’s an excited squeal behind us.

Steph spins around, her head tilted in the direction the sound came from. Almost under her breath is the word, “Susie?” Then it comes again louder. “Susie?”

“Sis!” A woman comes up at a run, her arms going around Steph whose arm I’m holding, tugging her away from me. “Steph, it’s so good to see you!”

“You came?”

“I had to, how could I stay away? Mom and Dad wanted to be here as well, but they’re working, Selina too. I was able to take a few hours off. I’ve been following the trial. Knew you were due to testify.” She pulls back a bit and holds her at arm’s length. “You look good, baby sister.”

“Iamgood. Now that’s over, at least.”

I clear my throat.

“Susie, this is Beef. Er, Dwayne Carson. He’s my fiancé.”

Fuck me, but it’s good to hear her introduce me like that.

“Dwayne.” Susie’s eyes narrow suspiciously. I’m not surprised. On looks I’m not much of a catch for any woman.

“I prefer Beef but take your pick.” I try to soften my expression but it’s not easy. Inside I’m preparing for a fight over whether I’m good enough or not for her family. The anticipation is making me tense.

“And what do you do, Beef?”

How the fuck do I answer? Whatever my club wants me to? Tell her at the moment I’m acting as an enforcer?

Steph answers before I do, “He’s a biker, Susie, like out of Sons of Anarchy.”

Shit. Way to make it easier.

“Not like that lot inside the court?” Her sister jerks her head back over her shoulder and looks concerned.

“Nothing like. He and his club have been working with the marshals to keep me safe.”

Susie gives me an appraising look. “Well, you’re built like a bodyguard.” Then to Steph she asks, “You sure about him?”

“I love him.”

“And I love Steph.” Taking the step needed to regain my position beside my old lady, I put my arm possessively around her. My eyes flash a warning to her sister.She’s mine.

She looks from Steph to me, then back again. Then surprises the fuck out of me when she asks, “Do you ride a Harley, or one of those plastic imports?”

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