and "I've no real choice, have I? and " Laura asked.As long as she could remember, Laura had loved Dr. Tom Nicol, a gentle, self-sacrificing man, dedicated to serving the needy.Unlike him in every way was Randal Mercier - wealthy, powerful, taking what he wanted. And he wanted Laura.Her father's embezzlement of funds from Randal's company made it impossible for Laura to refuse his marriage proposal! She knew she must marry him but she didn't have to love him.She couldn't foresee her change of heart or the despair of knowing he was indifferent to it.