Nick had nothing to offer her

Though Karis knew many women would have been tempted by the things he could give them.

Karis had worked hard to overcome the heartbreak of her past -- and as assistant manager of a prestigious jewelry boutique she though she'd made a reasonable life for herself.

Now Nik Christianides had appeared and reawakened all the old memories, reminding Karis of what she'd lost. The attraction was still there -- but so was the antipathy. She wouldn't even consider his arrogant proposal.