Despite being wealthy, Ellie Manchester has had a rough life. She witnessed her mother's murder at age seven, but didn't see the man responsible. Plagued by nightmares, and a drunken father, Ellie has grown up to believe that she can only rely on herself. When her father dies in an accident, she becomes an heiress of sorts... and a target. Tanner Paxton was a tough and tumble kid who turned his penchant for getting into fights into a successful security business. He loves his work but doesn't have time for much else, especially relationships. When he's hired to protect Ellie, against her will, he not only finds himself embroiled in dangerous chaos, but falling in love with the most stubborn and beautiful woman he's ever met. But love may be a weakness that can get them both killed.