Some instincts are too strong to deny... Branded an outcast by his werewolf clan, Cort Renier came to San Francisco seeking fortune – and revenge. What he found was a mysterious beauty who could not – or would not – reveal her identity. At first glance she seemed vulnerable and afraid. But one look into her stunning turquoise eyes and he knew he'd found the winning hand. Aria di Reinardus had reasons of her own for concealing her identity, but Cort's kisses were more than enough to convince her to follow his plan to transform her into a missing heiress and return her to her 'family.' But they were not the only ones with secrets to keep and vengeance in mind, and they were about to discover that some destinies couldn't be outrun...