Christian was the eldest son of a wealthy, eminent family, with a beloved sister just eighteen months his junior. The pair were the closest of allies, not just siblings, but friends and confidantes too.

So Christie greeted her brother joyfully that day, leaping into his arms despite their brief separation. Laughing, Christian caught her exuberant embrace.

"Get down now Christie!" he scolded without heat, swatting her affectionately. Still she smothered him in kisses until finally releasing her hold.

"Well?" she demanded eagerly. "Did you succeed?"

Christian sighed heavily. "I arrived too late. She's wed another."

Christie gasped. "What?! But you were with her!"

"I followed the honeymoon trip," Christian admitted....