I came to Silver Creek to escape and get some space after leaving the Marines. A military friend offered me a place to transition to civilian life, away from family expectations.

Krystal Duncan is nothing like the women I used to date. She’s strong, independent, and fiercely protective of her daughter. She doesn’t need anyone, least of all me.

I fight to keep my distance, but when she storms into my cabin, eyes blazing, and kisses me, all bets are off.

But my life is back in New York as the CEO of the family business. And Krystal has no idea who I really am—a billionaire hiding out on this ranch.

I’m used to being in control, keeping people at arm’s length, but Krystal and her daughter, Ashanti, are breaking down my walls.

This fierce mama is making me want to protect her forever.

If only she understood that my greatest weakness is how much I love her.