City girl Cecily Kennedy never expected to step foot on a cattle ranch, but when her already strained marriage takes a violent turn, a kind friend offers her a job and refuge at Wells Ranch. Ranch life is hard enough without her new boss, Austin Wells, sending mixed signals about whether he wants her or hates her. But Cecily can't risk getting involved with her grumpy yet alluring employer-she has nowhere else to go, and getting over her ex by getting under Austin isn't worth the potential fallout. As far as Austin's concerned, Cecily won't be sticking around for long. He's learned the hard way that nobody ever stays, and the indent on her ring finger makes him certain the sexy city gal is no exception. But when Cecily's troubled past threatens her safe haven, Austin realizes that somewhere between their trail rides and late night talks, she's branded herself on his heart. He desperately wants her to stay, and whether or not she feels the same, he'll be damned if he lets anyone or anything hurt her under his watch.