Anger. Guilt. Sorrow. They've strangled Cole for years-and now they've literally damaged him. With his knee out of commission, Cole knows the road to recovery will be nothing but long and irritating . . . until his beautiful and determined neighbor offers to help him in return for a favor. But soon Cole finds himself offering her so much more. Their unexpected passion lays Cole bare, body and soul. And leaves him wondering how he'll walk away before he ruins her life, too.

Gruff, secretive, and coiled with tension that begs for release, Cole is too intriguing for Serena to resist. The English accent and brooding brown eyes don't hurt, either. Their nights are beyond compare-yet the truths Cole confesses in his darkest moments reveal a heart bruised almost beyond repair. But Serena's seen the kindness and support he shows when she needs it most. Armed with a bottomless well of patience and devotion, she'll show Cole just how good it can be to let someone in . . .