What happens when a security expert tries to protect a feisty chef who has a penchant for pissing off the most dangerous elements of the criminal underworld? Cue the danger and mayhem. Nathan Reece is a serial dater. Despite his reputation, women can’t seem to resist the challenge to make him commit. But the problem isn’t Nate’s ability to commit. The problem is he’s already given his heart to the girl who got away—twice. Sylvie Yoshida. Years ago, Nate and Sylvie had a steamy no-strings-attached affair that ended when his CIA duties called, and Sylvie’s ambitions to become a chef got in the way. Not willing to give each other up, they agreed to a platonic relationship. When Nate quit the CIA with plans to claim his woman, he again became a victim of bad timing. Sylvie had found someone else, and it was looking more and more likely he would remain in the friend zone forever. However, fate is up to some mischief and has given him his third chance to make her his. There is that one tiny problem his lady love has found herself entangled with the Asian Crime Syndicate—a hybrid organization that is a cross between the Yakuza and the Chinese Triad. Will Nate be able to save her? More than one life is at stake, and he must tread carefully between secrets and truth and his duty to country and the woman he loves. * Strong sexual content and language. Could be read as a standalone. No cliffhanger. Second-chance, friends to lovers romance.