Danny Carmody has lived life privileged but lonely. He has always sacrificed his own needs to meet the demands of his family. Now he is faced with an arranged marriage intended to reunite the Carmodys and the Dwyers, the city's two most powerful families. Out of his sense of duty, he agrees. But always a romantic at heart, he secretly nurtures hopes of finding love within this sterile business arrangement. Once he meets his intended groom, Evan -- a talented, attractive architect -- those hopes soar.<br><br>Evan Dwyer has grown up reviled by his family. Before he was even born, his mother was blamed for breaking up a planned marriage between the Carmodys and the Dwyers. As a result, both Evan and his mother have lived their lives in virtual exile. But now he has suddenly been deemed of use to the families, and they are blackmailing him into participating in the arranged marriage.<br><br>Furious, he reaches out to the FBI for help and finds only more complications. Too many people want to use him to advance their own agendas. By the time Evan realizes Danny might just be the safe harbor he's looked for all his life, it may well be too late. Evan has set in motion forces that threaten to destroy any hope they have for a future together.

Family Ties

Leaning down apparently to speak into Colin’s ear, Sean said loud enough for everyone to hear, “I’ll go see about getting you a drink and leave you to the dismal pleasantries.” Ignoring everyone else, Sean headed off in the direction of the bar.


Nessa’s eyes flashed at Sean’s rude departure, but she said nothing. Arranging her face into a welcoming smile, she smoothly acknowledged the silent chorus shadowing Colin. “Sharon, how lovely to see you again. Please, make yourself comfortable. And Meggie, you’ve grown into a beautiful young woman. But not surprising—you were such a pretty little girl.”


Casting a glance at Danny and Evan, she announced, “And now I’d like to present the couple whose marriage will reunite two families too long divided. Danny? Evan? Please come here.”


Chapter 38