He'll protect them both, no matter the cost.

Summer Lewis can't catch a break. An overworked single mom, she's struggling to make ends meet. The one bright spot is her favorite customer at the diner where she works—the big, tattooed Reese. But the dark spot in Summer's life threatens to blot out the sun. Her ex is a member of a notorious motorcycle club, and they refuse to leave her alone.

Reese Haven hasn't been home in almost two decades. Burdened by the weight of his mistakes, he's convinced he can't return. Instead, he uses his skills for good—protecting clients through his private security business.

When Summer's dangerous ex shows up, she turns to her friend, Reese. She has no choice but to disappear, and Reese knows exactly where he can take her.

Tilikum. His hometown.

Reese makes the agonizing decision to return home, bringing a fake family with him. He'll stick it out until he's sure they're safe, then they'll go their separate ways. He can't possibly stay.

But pretending to be married turns out to be more complicated than either of them anticipate. As tensions mount and lines blur, their relationship begins to feel all too real.

And when the threat to Summer and her son returns, Reese will risk everything—even his life—to keep them safe.

Author's note: A big, tattooed hero with resting scary face falls hard for a down-on-her-luck single mom. A story of found family, forgiveness, and redemption, with the heartwarming happily ever after you've been waiting for.