"Robert Winters is a small-town sheriff who is acutely aware of his role as the third wheel. He can't let go of the past, no matter how hard he tries. He's only been going through the motions for the last five years since his almost fiancé left their small town to chase her dreams. Jessie Sorenson Pendelton takesa broken heart to New York City, knowing she'll never love like that again. Affection for an attractive man is the best she can hope for. Unfortunately, the charismatic and persistent investment broker who sweeps her off her feet turns out to be controlling and abusive. Now Jessie is back, running from the abusive husband who vowed to kill her if she ever left. Robert promises to protect her and her secrets, but he isn't sure he can do so without falling in love with her all over again. And when Jessie's husband turns out to be more persistent than Robert expected, both of their lives are in danger"--provided by publisher.