A child born of the wilderness, I don't know many women. Never had one of my own.

But sassy little Annie Charran owned my heart long before I stole her first kiss. She paid a high price for my actions, and even though I want her for life, I'll never fit into the one she has planned for herself.

Given the opportunity to beg forgiveness, I grab it—and end up facing death.

With instincts overriding my senses, I take again.

But this time, a wildfire flares, demolishing everything in its path. Survival means sacrifice, and for me, life trumps dreams.

I'll force Annie to give up what she wants most, even if it means I lose her forever.