It's the instinct former-SEAL Jude Williams must fight every time someone touches him. His six months being tortured in an enemy prison camp may be long over, but he's got scars-all over his body and mind-keeping that time at the forefront of his psyche.

So how could he even consider giving in to the desire he has for the town's coffeehouse owner?

Lena Mitchell has big gray eyes and a bigger smile-she's full of life, right down to her purple and teal streaked hair.

There are so many reasons Jude should stay away from her. So many ways he's bad for her. But when danger shows up on Lena's door, keeping his distance is no longer an option.

He'll protect her from any threat.

But who will protect her from him?