She was his best buddy's widow. The epitome of Southern refinement. And, since high school, a secret passion in rough-hewn Jase McGraw's heart. Now Allison Rhodes had unexpectedly arrived on Jase's doorstep, seeking a friend, forgetfulness...and the broad shoulders of a man she could trust.

Well, a man had to do what a man had to do. So the rugged Red Bluff sheriff took Allison in. But a merciless heat wave forced them to share a bedroom--and shelter an adorable newborn--igniting Jase's every forbidden desire to make Allison his...without giving up his ironclad grip on his heart....