Lawfully Wedded Read online

  Lawfully Wedded

  Jenna Brandt

  Contents

  Copyright

  Introduction to The Lawkeepers Series

  Chapter 1

  Chapter 2

  Chapter 3

  Chapter 4

  Chapter 5

  Chapter 6

  Chapter 7

  Chapter 8

  Chapter 9

  Chapter 10

  Chapter 11

  Chapter 12

  Chapter 13

  Chapter 14

  Chapter 15

  Chapter 16

  Chapter 17

  Chapter 18

  Chapter 19

  Chapter 20

  Chapter 21

  Chapter 22

  Chapter 23

  Chapter 24

  Chapter 25

  Chapter 26

  Chapter 27

  Chapter 28

  Chapter 29

  Epilogue

  It’s not quite the end!

  Preview – Next Book in Series

  Also by Jenna Brandt

  Join My Mailing List and Reader’s Group

  Acknowledgments

  About the Author

  Copyright

  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, except in 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 2018, 2019.

  The Lawkeepers Series © Jenna Brandt 2018, 2019.

  Original cover design by Josephine Blake with photo copyright by Depositphotos.com

  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 super heroes navigate the most treacherous path of all—the road to love.

  The Lawkeepers. Historical and modern-day super heroes; 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.

  Visit The Lawkeepers on Facebook

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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, Patricia PacJac Caroll, Evangeline Kelly, Ginny Sterling and Barb Goss 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 of sorts, and you can read them in any order.

  Dedicated to

  my husband, Dustin, Badge #5654,

  who inspired me to create this series.

  You’re not only my heart and soul,

  but my own personal lawkeeper.

  One

  Excited anticipation took a firm grip of Lindsay Wright’s heart. She and her new fiancé, Aiden O’Connell, pulled up in front of the Clear Mountain, Colorado shelter group home. She couldn’t wait to get inside and tell Alex Sterling the good news.

  Lindsay helped displaced children find homes as a social worker. She cared about all the kids she worked with, but the blond-haired Alex held a special place in her heart. Not only was he one of the first children assigned to her caseload, but he was the reason she got to know Aiden.

  A smile formed on Lindsay’s face as she thought about the pivotal encounter. Alex ran up to Officer Aiden O’Connell inside Happy’s Burgers and begged to see his K-9 partner. Little did she know Aiden would become the most important person in her life.

  “You ready for this?” Aiden gave her a wide grin while he turned off his Mustang’s engine.

  “I sure am,” Lindsay stated as she looked over at her handsome, brown-haired fiancé. “I can’t wait to see Alex’s face when we tell him the news.”

  Aiden jumped out of the car and hurried around to Lindsay’s door. He helped her out and then took her hands at the edge of the sidewalk.

  “I think we should pray first,” Aiden suggested.

  Lindsay’s heart swelled with pride at how much Aiden had grown in the Lord since he rekindled his relationship with God. Nodding, she closed her eyes and waited for Aiden to begin.

  “Dear Lord, give us the right words to say to Alex. Make this about Your will and not our own desires. We ask for your guidance as you prepare all our hearts as we step into this new part of our lives. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.”

  Lindsay opened her green eyes and looked up into Aiden’s chocolate ones. The love and warmth she saw reflected from them helped put her jittery nerves at ease.

  “We’ve got this,” Aiden declared as he tucked a few stray strands of Lindsay’s blond hair behind her ear. “Correction, God’s got this. We know the Lord put this on our hearts to do it.”

  His comforting words calmed the final unrest in her heart. “You’re right. You always know what to say.”

  Turning towards the house, they made their way up the sidewalk to the front door. Aiden knocked and a few moments later, Linda Stanton, the group home director, answered.

  Linda was an older brunette woman with a small frame. Her usual pristine appearance was tussled and her eyes held a weary gaze.

  “How’s it going today, Linda?” Lindsay inquired. For the past five months,
Linda had been in charge of the home. Due to the lack of qualified families, foster children filled the place beyond capacity.

  “The snow has caused the boys to be rowdy. They’re stir crazy and frustrated they can’t go outside—but I’m making do.” She looked from Lindsay to Aiden with a cordial smile. “I’m guessing you're here to check on Alex?”

  Lindsay nodded. “We want to tell Alex some good news.”

  “Why don’t you both come in and wait in the living room while I go get him.”

  As they entered the house and walked towards the living room, Linda disappeared up the stairs to the bedrooms.

  When Lindsay and Aiden entered the other room, several of the boys’ eyes moved towards them. Two of them were Lindsay’s previous charges. They greeted her with a smile and a “hi” before turning their attention back towards the TV. Since deciding to foster-to-adopt Alex, Lindsay was removed as his social worker as well as the boys in the group home to keep any conflicts of interest from arising.

  “Officer Aiden, Miss Lindsay! Are you guys here to take me to lunch?” Alex shouted as he entered the room.

  “We can do that, Champ,” Aiden said with a grin, “but first we need to share something with you.”

  “Is Cooper with you?” Alex glanced around, his brown eyes darted behind them for Aiden’s K-9 partner that was often with him.

  “No, not today, I left him at home. He’s tired from our last assignment.”

  “What did you guys do?” Alex inquired with interest.

  “There was a warrant served on a drug house, and Cooper had to search for the stash locations.”

  “Did he find them?” Alex probed with curiosity.

  “He sure did, but it took a while. That’s why he’s so tired,” Aiden explained.

  “Well, glad to hear Cooper did such a good job. He’s the best dog ever!” Alex declared.

  “He sure is, Champ.” Aiden glanced around the crowded room before suggesting, “Why don’t we go into the hallway where we can talk without disturbing everyone.”

  “Sure, Officer Aiden.”

  The trio headed out of the room. Aiden guided them over to the steps leading to the upper area of the house. The couple sat on either side of Alex.

  “You guys are making me nervous. What’s going on? You’re not sending me back to live with the Winters, are you?”

  Lindsay’s heart lurched at the panic and fear she saw in the boy’s eyes. The Winters had been Alex’s last foster parents. Alex accused Mr. Winters of being abusive in a letter he left for Lindsay to find before he ran away to escape. Although Aiden and Cooper had found Alex in the woods with only a sprained ankle to show for his disappearance, it had been a frightening ordeal for all.

  “No, Alex, you won’t be going back to the Winters,” Lindsay reassured him. “Their foster license has been revoked. They won’t be able to hurt you—or any other foster children—because of what you did. You were very brave for writing that letter.”

  Alex glowed with satisfaction. “Thank you, Miss Lindsay.”

  “We came to talk with you regarding another matter, Alex,” Aiden started. Reaching out, Aiden took Lindsay’s hand in his own, turning the engagement ring towards Alex. “Lindsay and I are getting married.”

  “And it’s thanks to you, Alex,” Lindsay added. “You were the one who brought us together.”

  Alex smiled at them. “I’m happy for you guys. You’re great for each other.” A sad look crossed Alex’s face for a moment before he masked it. “Cooper is one lucky dog to have you both.”

  “He is, but he’s not the only one that gets to have us,” Aiden stated.

  “What are you talking about?” Alex asked, confused.

  “There is a reason we got engaged so quickly.” Lindsay reached out and placed her hand on Alex’s shoulder. “We want to adopt you Alex, that is... if you’ll have us.”

  Alex’s eyes grew round as they jumped to meet Lindsay’s eyes. “Are you serious?”

  “Completely,” Aiden answered, placing his hand on Alex’s other shoulder. “We’ve filled out the paperwork to be foster parents. We’re planning to get married, so once we’re approved, you can move in with us.”

  “And if you want us as your permanent and official parents, we will fill out the papers to move from foster to adoption,” Lindsay explained.

  Tears formed in the corner of Alex’s eyes as he hugged first Aiden and then Lindsay. “You told me there was nothing wrong with wishing because sometimes wishes come true. I wanted to believe you. I told you how much I wanted you to adopt me, but I never thought it would happen.”

  “Oh, Alex, you are the most special little boy I have ever known,” Lindsay stated as her own eyes filled with tears of joy.

  “You’re awesome too, Miss Lindsay.”

  With a laugh, she corrected, “You can call me Lindsay considering the circumstances.”

  “And you can call me Aiden rather than Officer Aiden.”

  Alex nodded. “This is the greatest news ever! I’m getting the best real parents in the world!”

  “We’re the ones who are lucky, Alex. We want you to know God is the one who made this possible,” Aiden stated.

  “Remind me to thank Him later,” Alex said.

  The couple laughed as Alex asked, “What? What did I say?”

  “Nothing, nothing,” Lindsay sputtered out, “You’re right, Alex. We all need to thank Him.”

  She gathered Alex into her arms as Aiden hugged both from the other side. Lindsay felt like the final puzzle piece for her life came into place. She would finally have the family she had always wanted.

  Two

  Aiden and Lindsay entered Domenico’s Italian restaurant where Mr. De Luca, the restaurant owner, was waiting at the front podium.

  A giant grin spread across his face as he saw the engaged couple. “Good evening. You know, I had a great feeling when you two dined here for the first time.”

  Lindsay laughed. “It’s a good thing he brought us here for a second date after our disastrous first date at The Lucky Penny.”

  Aiden had ignorantly made the choice to take Lindsay to The Lucky Penny, a cop bar, on their first date. Not having to put much effort into dating before, he thought doing what he normally did on Friday night was enough. It had been a decision he had regretted. Within minutes of being at the establishment, a badge bunny named Chantel hit on him. His best friend and search and rescue partner, Zach Turner, appeared next making crass comments, worsening the situation.

  “Hey, I had a lot of learning to do when it came to dating and wooing a woman.” With a wink, Aiden added, “I like to think I was a quick study and pulled it together rather fast once you gave me a second chance.”

  With a nod, Lindsay agreed. “You made up for your poor judgment in spades.”

  Mr. De Luca gestured to the back. “Why don’t you both follow me? Your guests are waiting for you.”

  The three of them made their way into the private party room. Most of the Clear Mountain police department, several of Lindsay’s co-workers from Child Protective Services (CPS), and many friends from church were gathered.

  As they entered the room, everyone looked towards them and stopped talking in their different groups to say “hello” and “congrats” to the couple.

  Erica Cruz, Lindsay’s best friend and roommate, weaved her way through the crowd until she was standing in front. “Congrats, you two!” she shouted with excitement, causing her brown bob to bounce up and down. “Why don’t you follow me over to your special table for the evening?”

  Lindsay and Aiden did as Erica suggested. In the center of the room was a table for two drenched in red rose petals and candles. The crystal glasses and white china gleamed on top of the crisp, white tablecloth. Around the table were several other larger, round tables for the rest of the guests.

  “It looks so beautiful, Erica,” Lindsay stated with audible amazement.

  With a nonchalant shrug, Erica replied, “It was nothing. It w
as the least I could do for all you’ve done for me over the years.” With one raised eyebrow, she added looking at Aiden, “As for you, Mister, you’re lucky you’ve grown on me. It's paramount you have the best friend’s approval.”

  Aiden nodded. “Oh, I realized that all too well. Lindsay runs everything by you for the wedding.”

  Erica chuckled. “Lindsay knows I’m the one who has been planning my wedding since I was a kid. It makes me the local expert. Who better to get advice from?”

  “True, true. You definitely know what you’re doing with all this,” Aiden acknowledged, as he gestured around the trendy, yet elegantly decorated room. “You’ve done a wonderful job with our engagement party.”

  “Well, hopefully I won’t be far behind you—if I could ever meet the right guy.”

  Lindsay had told Aiden that Erica was a serial dater. Not because she didn’t want to settle down, but because none of the guys she met from online dating services turned out to be what they claimed.

  “We’ll pray God brings the right guy into your life,” Lindsay stated with positivity. “If anyone deserves to be happy, it’s you, Erica.”

  “Thanks. Mr. De Luca said the food is ready. It's time to eat now that you've arrived,” Erica stated, as she motioned to the buffet table at one end of the room.

  Everyone followed the couple over to the buffet, forming a line behind them. Once all the guests had their plates of lasagna, chicken parmesan, Caesar salad, and bread, they took their seats to eat.