He's empty, inhuman, dishonest, and cruel.

She's never wanted anyone more.

Sydney has lived in fear for eight years after freelance assassin, Merc, failed to rescue her from a cult-like militia group. Left in the hands of a sadistic man, she did whatever it took to survive. But Merc's last words gave her hope. Hope he'd be back to finish the job.

Merc knows just what to do with a fearful girl like Sydney after he was betrayed by her father that night. He wields sex, drugs, lies, and love like weapons—and Sydney is his target.

He's in control. He's always in control. But Sydney Channing is not what she appears. And Merc's only redeeming act, the very one that made Sydney's life a living hell, might just be his worst mistake yet.