Sunday, January 18, 2026

One Sweet Christmas Excerpt

A tiny piece of her hoped his family was behind his visit, but she suspected—and dreaded—his reason was more complex and involved. “You traveled all this way and have no intention of seeing your family? What is wrong with you? Has the big city air caused you to lose your mind?” 

“That is a possibility. Because for the life of me, I don’t remember getting married.” 

His statement sliced through her, unearthing scars she never wanted to revisit. Candice stepped backward. 

Jackson withdrew a document from inside his coat pocket. He unfolded the certificate and waved it in the air. “Recognize this?” 

Candice snatched away the paper. A weight pressed heavily on her chest, stalling a breath. Scanning the words, she held onto the counter for support. 

A loud timer buzzed from the kitchen, startling both Candice and Jackson. 

Candice raced toward the kitchen. “Fudge.” 
COPYRIGHT © DARLENE FREDETTE