Luke Claiborne is back in Last Stand, Texas, after a combat injury ends his career as a military K9 handler. Without his working dog by his side, he's lost his purpose – until he meets a sexy wildlife rehabber who seems determined to save every animal in town. When she puts her own life at risk in the process, it's clear to Luke that she's the one who needs rescuing. Before long, his new mission is to show her how perfect they could be together. Jorie Russell has loved Luke since she was an awkward teenager, but she knows he's out of her league. She grew up on the wrong side of town, and has spent her whole life trying to prove she's not like her reckless, irresponsible mother. Luke might act tough, but she can see he is suffering and she's determined to help him heal. But then a shadow from her past threatens their future. Can she finally get the happily-ever-after she's always longed for?