I was never supposed to want her—but I do.
CARTER
Catalina Ajemian was sent to my ranch by her father—my closest friend—with a one-line warning: “Teach her responsibility.” I’d never met her, but the second she arrived at my ranch, all fire, attitude and grief she wouldn’t talk about, I knew she’d turn my life upside down.
She’s here for six months.
Every time I try to keep my distance, I find myself being pulled in deeper, enthralled by her.
I don’t let people in, perfected being alone, where no one can hurt me again.
Love wasn’t something I wanted—not again.
CATALINA
My father didn’t send me here out of love, he sent me away because I’m such a disappointment.
Six months of chores, lifting a finger and trying not to fall apart. Six months on a ranch in the middle of nowhere with strangers, silence, and a man who looks at me like I’m not already broken.
Carter Hayes is insufferable and quiet, the last man I ever saw myself wanting.
I don’t trust anyone. I push too hard and feel too much.
But for the first time in a long time, someone sees me.
And just when I think I might finally be free, my past comes back to remind me—I never had a choice.
