A shadow of a man. A whole heart. Another failed chance. And a love so unexpected and strong. But will it be enough, and will it be in time to save someone from the noose....

Sure, I ain't no saint. Never said I was. Tell me you've never made a mistake, and I'll call you a liar. But I'm about to make another one. At least that's what going after Nash Paxton is, according to everyone else. Admittedly, I'm not the best listener, either. Until I take that ride into the bushes, seeking him out. Then I listen. I listen real good, too. Of course, one would listen up if it means saving someone's life. Turns out that everyone was right this one damn time. But now it's too late...and I know too much.

***

It wasn't meant for anyone to see. Especially Braylynn. But I only told her what I had to. Least of all the reason I was doing what I was doing. The rest will go with me to the grave if I have my way about it. She turns out to be way more than I thought or could ever want. And she didn't have to do any of it, either, but she did it all the same. And when it comes time to pay the piper, knowing what she did to me not twenty-four hours ago, my heart and my brain have trouble deciding. And then I run out of time.... just as her clock runs out...