So she is intrigued but skeptical of the professor's claims that the feud has been kept alive over the centuries. Jordan has always led a cautious life and has used her intelligence and reason to become a successful businesswoman. The disheveled and eccentric professor of medieval history warns that there's 'bad blood' between the couple's clans, stemming from a feud that originated in Scotland. The ceremony and reception proceed without a hitch-until a crasher appears. It represents the joining of two family dynasties. The wedding is a lavish affair-for the marriage is no ordinary occasion. Jordan Buchanan is thrilled that her brother and best friend are tying the knot. He's convinced that she's merely having a spell of bad luck-until he discovers how many people want Kate MacKenna dead. At Jordan's insistence, Dylan checks up on Kate. Kate returns home determined to get back on track and save her business. Once she knows that Jordan is going to be fine, Kate abandons her calm facade and allows herself to do something totally uncharacteristic: She has a one-night stand with Jordan's brother Dylan. Though stretched to the limit, Kate immediately rushes to her side. Then Kate receives a call from her best friend, Jordan Buchanan, who is hospitalized and scheduled for surgery. Kate's still reeling from this news when her younger sister's volatile ex-boyfriend threatens her. Once home, Kate is hit with the news that the company she has nurtured from the ground up is in jeopardy: her late mother used the business as collateral for a huge loan, and full payment is due in three weeks. While attending a reception at a friend's estate, Kate is nearly killed by an explosion. But now the fates seem to be lining up against her.

Kate MacKenna has always been able to turn her challenges into triumphs.

Slow burn by julie garwood