Sophie's previous life was a living hell. Despite being neglected and abused, she is just as lovely on the inside as on the outside. The sweetness inside of her is something Rooter craves. She is innocent, despite all the ugliness she has seen. The last thing she needs is the danger a criminal will bring. But for some unfathomable reason, she chooses him.No matter how many times he says she deserves better than what he can give, she disagrees. She isn't aware of his fear that she'll be used as leverage against him because of their involvement. His refusal to have her dragged into his dangerous life, which is inevitable if they are together, may be what keeps them apart.In spite of his pledge to never allow her to feel pain again, Rooter can't stay away. It is impossible to tell her no—to turn his back and walk away. Being with her makes him whole in ways he can't explain.Swept up in a passionate love affair, they are met with danger and conflict at every turn. When an accusation of a brutal crime is made, their relationship is pushed beyond its breaking point. Will they be able to repair the rift... or is it a hurt too deep to ever be healed?