by Jenna Brandt
The White Wedding
Window to the Heart Saga
Jenna Brandt
A short Story
This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, organizations, places, events and incidents are either products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Locale and public names are sometimes used for atmospheric purposes. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, actual events, or actual locations is purely coincidental. All rights reserved.
No part of this book may be reproduced, or stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without express written permission of the author, exception the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. For permission requests, email [email protected].
Text copyright © Jenna Brandt 2017.
Window to the Heart Saga © Jenna Brandt 2017.
Original Series Cover design by Alexia Purdy with photo copyright by Periodimages.com © 2017
Created with Vellum
Contents
Description
Chapter 1
2. Preview of The Christmas Bride Novella
Also by Jenna Brandt
Acknowledgments
About the Author
Note from the Author
Description
Window to the Heart Saga: a recountal of the trials, adventures and relationships of the family and friends of Lady Margaret. The first three books detail her journey and book four focuses on the cousin of her best friend. The series has compelling themes of love, loss, faith and hope with a supremely gratifying conclusion in book 3 and 4.
The English Proposal (Book 1). Sheltered on her family’s country estate, Lady Margaret, the daughter of an English Earl, is betrothed due to a family promise. Although Henry, the Viscount Rolantry, has been her best friend since childhood and she is expected to marry him, she never felt butterflies until she meets the Duke of Witherton. Against her father’s wishes, Margaret finds herself captivated by the forbidden duke. Caught between family loyalty and her own wishes, Margaret searches for a way to satisfy both her responsibilities and her longings. When tragedy strikes, Margaret finds herself seeking answers at church. But when she finally makes her choice, through her newfound faith, will she be able to live with the repercussions of her decision?
Profoundly romantic and superbly riveting, The English Proposal explores the conflict between fulfilling duties and satiating desires.
The French Encounter (Book 2). Ruined by a night she will never forget, Lady Margaret, Countess of Renwick, must flee from England with her infant son to hide from the man who destroyed her life and from the sister-in-law who hates her. Relentlessly, the duke and viscountess hunt for them, planning to take the child to whom they both feel entitled. Margaret turns to God, believing he will protect her family and help her find her long-lost twin brother, Randall. While searching for Randall in France, Margaret is pursued by two enticing men: Pierre, the alluring Vidame of Demoulin, and Michel, the powerful Marquis de Beadier. One man promises passion while the other offers security. Will Margaret surrender the chance for love to secure her safety?
Deeply passionate and intensely gripping, The French Encounter weighs the struggle between giving in to temptation and sacrificing for refuge.
The American Conquest (Book 3) Running from a past scandal, Lady Margaret must leave Europe forever and escape across the ocean to America. The plan: to brave the Oregon Trail to reach the Colorado territory where her family’s future awaits. While facing adversities in the new frontier, Margaret must trust God to keep their family safe. Attacked by Indians, the group is saved by Cortland Westcott, a rancher and devoted Christian. Margaret and Cort have an instant connection through their faith, but devastating secrets threaten to cripple the budding relationship. Both Margaret and Cort must confront a past that haunts them to finally be able to make a new life together. Will Margaret finally come to terms with what happened to her, or will she let her past destroy her future?
After enduring immense hardships, will Lady Margaret finally be free from her past, allowing her to embrace her soul mate? Extremely tender and magnificently exhilarating, The American Conquest examines the journey between healing a broken heart and making room for rebirth.
The Oregon Pursuit (Book 4) After Amelie Leclaire's parents pass away in a tragic accident, she must return home to West Linn, Oregon to take over the family bakery. Amelie was training to be a midwife but must give up her plans in an attempt to provide a stable life for her younger sister. Pierre Girald, the Vidame of Demoulin, is traveling to West Linn on business. A chance meeting at the bakery and Pierre is instantly intrigued by the alluring Miss Leclaire, she on the other hand, is less impressed until she gets to know him. Through many trials and setbacks, will the couple be able to form a lasting relationship or will his past and her financial problems put an end to their potential?
Exceptionally sincere and wondrously engaging, The Oregon Pursuit shows the journey between letting go of a troubled past and finding new hope.
The White Wedding (Book 5) Debbey McCoy is the daughter of the local pastor in West Linn at the end of Oregon Trail. Lord William Almonbury is the second son of an English viscount. Their world's collide when William travels to West Linn for a new business venture. The connection is instant and a Christmas wedding is planned. Debbey always wanted a snow-covered wedding but when the big day is pushed forward due to a family illness in England, will she get the white wedding of which she always dreamed?
A stand alone HEA short story from the bestselling Window to the Heart Saga series, featuring two of the characters from the already released 4th book, novella and upcoming book in 2018.
The Christmas Bride (Book 6) Lucy Rogers traveled west, running from a troubled past. As a new Christian, she meets and forms a relationship with Matthew McCoy, the son of the local pastor. Lucy runs the Trail’s End Saloon while Matthew works for the local saw mill. As they plan their Christmas wedding, Lucy’s past comes back to haunt her. Will her past allow them to build a future together?
The first stand alone HEA novella in the Window to the Heart Saga featuring two characters from the 4th book and short story. A heartfelt, sweet read full of romance, sure to warm your heart this holiday season.
The Window to the Heart Saga
Trilogy
The English Proposal (Book 1)
The French Encounter (Book 2)
The American Conquest (Book 3)
Spin-offs
The Oregon Pursuit (Book 1)
The White Wedding (Book 2)
The Christmas Bride (Book 3)
The Viscount’s Wife (Book 4)
For more information about Jenna Brandt visit her on any of her websites.
www.JennaBrandt.com
www.facebook.com/JennaBrandtAuthor
www.twitter.com/JennaDBrandt
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December 1870
West Linn, Oregon
America
Debbey McCoy’s stomach rumbled as she walked the short distance between her house and the Leclaire Café on Main Street. She had lunch plans to meet her fiancé, William, her best friend Amelie Leclaire, and Amelie’s French husband, Pierre. They were planning to go over the details for Debbey and William’s upcoming wedding. Unfortunately, her brother, Matthew, couldn’t make it because he was working at the l
ocal saw mill as well as her other friend and soon-to-be sister-in-law, Lucy Rogers, who was busy managing The Trail’s End, the local saloon.
Smiling in amusement, Debbey thought about how much all their lives had changed over the past year. William came from England and they had met during a chance accident. Several more meetings led to him courting her and their engagement. Amelie and Pierre—William’s best friend—got married in the summer and were expecting their first child. Matthew was set to marry Lucy on Christmas Day, a week after Debbey’s own wedding date.
Her mind drifted to the first time she met Lord William Almonbury, the second son of an English Viscount.
Debbey’s mother was caring for one of the sick, elderly parishioners of First Congregation Church of West Linn and had tasked Debbey to run the home while she was away. Debbey’s father was the pastor of the church, and the McCoy family took care of the spiritual needs of the community.
She had picked up items at the general store before stopping off at the bakery to say a quick “hello” to Amelie. She had gotten distracted talking to her friend, and lost track of time. After looking outside at the approaching dusk, Debbey realized she was late getting home to make dinner for her family. As she exited the bakery in a rush, she collided with a stranger. She gasped from shock as she, and her packages and coin purse, went tumbling to the ground.
As she bent down to gather up her belongings, she heard a friendly English accent state, “Excuse my folly, Miss.”
Debbey’s eyes looked up and met the most piercing blue eyes she had ever encountered. His gaze held hers for a couple of moments before she took in the rest of the man. He had wavy blond hair, a toned physique, and a captivating smile.
“It’s all right,” Debbey said, trying to excuse her mistake.
The stranger handed her the last of her packages before helping her stand. “May I introduce myself?” She nodded as she continued to watch him. “My name is Lord William Almonbury of Brighton, England.”
“I’m Deborah McCoy, of. . . here,” she finished awkwardly.
A lop-sided grin formed on his lips in delight. After a moment, he tilted his head to the side and asked, “Tell me Miss McCoy, are you married?”
Her eyes grew round with surprise. “That’s a rather forward question.” Even though she knew it was none of his business, she felt an urging to tell him she was available. “As it happens, I’m not.”
“Betrothed?”
She forced down the laughter that threatened to bubble up. She bit the inside of her lip to keep from smiling. If his accent hadn’t done it, his word choice gave away his foreign origin.
“No, I’m not. . . engaged,” she corrected.
Both his eyebrows shot up as an expression of relief crossed his face. “I have to say, I’m glad to hear it.”
“I need to be on my way. I’m running late.”
He bowed at the waist, and as he came up, he reached out, took her hand in his, and gently placed his lips on the top. A tingling sensation spread through her arm as his eyes met hers again. It was obvious from the smoldering look in his eyes, the kiss had affected him in the same manner.
As Debbey entered the cafe, she smiled as she saw her golden-brown haired best friend smiling from a table in the corner. She waived her over as she said, “Come sit down, Debbey. I can see by the bag in your hand, you probably have your list of wedding details with you.”
Debbey glanced down at the sack and smiled. “You always have been sharp, Amelie.”
William stood up and hurried to her side. He leaned over and kissed her cheek as he guided her to the table. “What’s on the agenda today?” he inquired.
“We’re going to finalize the music and the flowers.”
“As you wish. You are the boss,” William joked.
The soon-to-be-married couple joined their friends at the table. It was already filled with an assortment of pastries and teas arranged by Amelie. Debbey couldn’t resist the delicacies Amelie created. She picked up one of the macaroons before she started to go over the plans.
William could not keep his eyes off his fiancée. She looked gorgeous in a dark blue dress which perfectly complimented her jade eyes and curly red-hair. He couldn’t believe that in just a couple of weeks, he was going to be married to this enchanting beauty.
From the first time he bumped into her by accident outside the bakery, he was taken by her. He remembered the moment he knew it was more than simple attraction like the times before with other women. It had been a hard and difficult road to convince Debbey’s family, he only had honorable intentions to pursue her. Although he was a foreigner, he persuaded Mr. and Mrs. McCoy he planned to make Debbey the happiest wife in the Oregon Territory.
After that first encounter, William’s mind had continued to return to the chance meeting with the gorgeous red-head only a few days prior. He had never been so fascinated by a woman, spurring his need to find out as much about her as he could. Once he asked around town and found out her father was the pastor of the local church, he decided to attend service the next Sunday.
William was finalizing his investment in the Willamette Falls Mill owned by Mr. Moore—one of the founding fathers of West Linn—when Debbey walked into the room. Instantly, his heart started beating out of control as a grin formed on his lips. As he watched her sashay over to where they were standing, he wondered if it was destiny creating another chance meeting.
“Good morning, Mr. Moore.” Debbey smiled at the older man before her eyes glanced towards William and wavered. She appeared to be contemplating what to do. Hesitantly, she murmured, “How do you do, Mr. Almonbury?”
“I am well, Miss McCoy,” William answered as his eyes met and held hers. “It’s a pleasure to see you again.”
“What brings you out to the mill this morning?” Mr. Moore inquired.
“Matthew forgot his lunch and mother asked me to bring it to him. Can you make sure he gets it?”
Mr. Moore nodded as he took the sack from Debbey. “I will have Mrs. Wilcox take it out to him when she gets back from running errands.” Mrs. Wilcox became Mr. Moore’s secretary after she was widowed, needing the income and activity in her life.
“Thank you, Mr. Moore.”
Before she could leave, William darted to her side, asking, “Can I escort you back into town? I just finished my business with Mr. Moore.”
Debbey’s eyelids drifted down, sheltering her jade eyes from his probing gaze. He wanted to know what she was thinking. Did she feel the connection between them that seemed to grow every time they were with each other?
“I think that would be affable.”
William latched onto her answer as a hopeful sign she regarded him in the same way. He took her hand and placed it in the crook of his arm as he guided her towards the exit.
Mr. Moore’s voice followed after them. “Stay on the main road. I will check in later with your father to make sure you arrived home in a timely manner.”
The warning was evident. Even though the mill was on the outskirts of town—merely a few minutes away—it wasn’t surprising Mr. Moore worried about protecting Debbey’s reputation. The Moore and McCoy families, along with the Leclaires, were the founding families of West Linn. They watched out for one another. Despite taking William on as a trusted business partner, Mr. Moore aimed to keep Deborah’s character untarnished.
Over his shoulder, William called, “I will make sure she returns home straight away.”
As they left the mill, William had a million questions he wanted to ask Debbey, but he refrained from rattling them off. The last thing he wanted to do was overwhelm her. After constraining himself for a few seconds, he asked, trying to sound casual, “Are you planning on attending the spring concert on Saturday?”
Debbey nodded. “My mother is gifted when it comes to music. She plays both the piano and the violin. She will be playing the latter during the concert.”
“I look forward to it then. It should prove to be an enjoyable night under th
e stars.” A favorable smile formed on his lips. “Even more so, if I get the chance to see you.”
“I suppose the opportunity may present itself if we are both in attendance.”
They reached the end of Main Street. Debbey stopped walking and turned to face him. “Thank you for escorting me safely back into town. I can manage on my own from here.”
“Afraid to be seen with me?”
“Not as much as trying to shield you from my protective brother and father. I doubt you want to be hammered with their enquiries.”
Normally, she would be right, but Debbey turned everything upside down for him. He would walk a mile over hot coals if it meant he got to spend more time with her. It was in that moment he knew she was the one woman who was going to change everything for him. As he watched her cross the street and head towards her home, William realized he was going to do whatever it took to win the heart of Debbey McCoy.
“I’m glad everyone likes the choices I made for the flowers,” Debbey said as she interrupted William’s reminiscing. “They’ll look lovely with the snow which should come by then.”
Amellie shook her head. “You’ve had it in your head since we were girls you were going to have a white wedding during Christmastime, but remember, it doesn’t always snow here in December. I don’t want you to be crushed if it doesn’t happen.”
“Amelie, I realize there’s a chance it won’t happen, but I want to be hopeful.”
William reached out and patted her hand which rested on the top of the table. “No matter what happens, you will be the most beautiful bride, and our wedding will be perfect.”
