Introduction: Word gets around fast in Eclipse Bay. Nick Harte should know - his family's legendary feud with the Madisons fueled the local gossip mill for years before finally cooling off. But people are still talking - and rumor has it Nick's involved with someone new... Art gallery owner Octavia Brightwell doesn't take chances - especially on handsome, charming men. But that's only part of the reason why she turned Nick down six times before - finally - agreeing to a date. Octavia's related to the woman who sparked the long-time family feud - and fears that falling hard for Nick would only ignite the flames again. Octavia knows her family's past is best kept hidden. But her secret isn't safe in Eclipse Bay - and neither is her heart......