“Too damn smart,” growled Ryker. “What did Dawn say when you told her?”
“I can answer that, Mr. Ryker.”
The prosecuting attorney turned quickly to see Dawn in the doorway.
“Why!” he began breathlessly.
“I heard what was said,” continued Dawn. “The other time you were here I heard what you said, Mr. Ryker. Are you the law?”
“The law?” faltered Ryker.
“Yes, the law. They say Peter may hang for the murder of Mallette. Can you trade Peter’s life for a marriage? Is that what the law is for—trade goods?”
Ryker flushed angrily.
“You don’t understand,” he said huskily. “It isn’t a case of trading, Dawn. I—I want you.”
“And I don’t want you,” she said evenly. “Go home.”