Evan, a Subterranean, has denied his own nature in order to protect Gemma, the girl he was sent to kill and with whom he has fallen hopelessly in love. Five months have gone by since her last encounter with Death, and in spite of having experienced the most intense period of happiness in her life at Evan's side, Gemma's instinct reminds her that the game is far from over. Evan, overconfident, lets his guard down, revealing an unmentionable secret--an error that can be paid for only with blood. Death returns to claim Gemma, sending its faithful servants to kill her. Desperate, Evan will do anything to save her, but the menace will seek them out even where they feel safest . . . The challenge between passion and death will pit the protagonists against each other. In the face of jealousy, betrayal, and emotional devastation, Evan and Gemma find it isn't easy to escape their fate.