You can't miss what you've never had

That's the philosophy Claire Hannaford's always followed. Orphaned shortly after her birth, Claire's never had a family--and she's convinced herself she doesn't need one. Being on her own means she's free to take nursing posts wherever and whenever she wants.

Her latest assignment brings her to the Parker Ranch to care for ailing Mae Parker, the clan's formidable matriarch. Claire's never seen a close-knit family like this one, and it reminds her that she's on the outside looking in. Tanner Reid, a member of the extended family, feels he's as much an outsider as Claire and reaches out to her.

Before long, Claire realizes that Tanner and the rest of the Parkers have given her the home she's never had. And as the time to go draws near, Claire wonders how she can possibly leave her heart behind.