Rescue was only the beginning-the real threat had just begun.

When Lucas Bonham steps into the chaos of a violent assault, he believes he's found his chance at redemption. Protecting a woman in need feels like the one thing that might heal the wounds of his own past.

Mercie Halford is beautiful, terrified, and clearly running from something she refuses to name. Though she hides her secrets behind guarded eyes, the fear in her voice is unmistakable. Lucas takes her in, offering both protection and compassion. What begins as rescue slowly transforms into a fragile bond-or so he thinks.

But shadows are never far behind. As Mercie's secret unravels, the truth she has concealed threatens to destroy Lucas's last chance at love.

When betrayal comes, it's swift and merciless. And Lucas must face a devastating reality: some people cannot be saved, no matter how deeply you care or how hard you fight.