Growing up in an abusive, alcoholic home, Heather struggles for normalcy. She believes she has found it with her stepfather, only to discover he is not the man her mother, brother, and she had longed for. Trusting him completely, they are unaware of his involvement with the Greek syndicate. In an attempt to keep his new family safe, he makes a deal involving Heather being courted by Gregor, the son of his business partner and lifelong friend. The story revolves around Heather's passionate and tumultuous relationship with Gregor, as she struggles with his affairs, drug addiction, and the reality of his family connections. Ultimately, Heather is placed in grave danger from Gregor's family. Having run out of options to be safe, she must make a sacrifice that almost destroys her to protect herself and those she loves. She deals with her loneliness and remorse while remaining strong and capable, hoping that eventually she'd find peace and the happily-ever-after of her dreams. From the Chain O'Lakes in Illinois, to the Greek Isles, the north woods of Wisconsin, and Denver, Colorado, Heather comes to accord with the enmity of her past and the her past decisions and the decisions made for her.