Everly Fairhope is desperate. When threats against her mother’s life escalate, there’s only one man she can turn to. But he’s as likely to slam the door in her face as he is to help her. Special Ops soldier Jax “Gem” Stone didn’t think he’d see Everly again after the abrupt way she walked out of his life and got engaged to someone else. So when she turns up at his front door, begging for help, the answer is no. Until someone takes a shot at them both. Gem doesn’t want to get involved for good reasons, but there’s no turning back. He’ll protect Everly and end the threat, then he wants her gone. Some things are easier said than done, though. Saving Everly from danger could be harder than expected when powerful forces work against him. But letting her go a second time? Impossible. She’s his, and he intends to prove it to her. If they survive what’s coming…