Six months.

Of peace. Of plenty. Of security after a lifetime of uncertainty in Sorrow. It should have felt like paradise. It doesn't. Not for a honed warrior used to long scavenger runs to keep her primal nature in check.

So when a stealth mission into a neighboring province drops into her lap, Jelayan pounces on it. There are just two problems: The mission comes with a partner, and their cover story is a relationship which has to convince more than just the enemy.

Jelayan doesn't need a babysitter, especially one as dangerously sexy as Kellan Avelaño. But she's forgotten one very important detail. Her partner is Rifaniir, and ambush predators strike when least expected.

When he decides to change the rules, their glorious night of passion changes everything. Now, she must fight her past, Fight her fear that everyone she loves will leave her. Fight to hold on to this man she didn't want and now can't live without.

Because more than just their mission is at stake. Kellan is Jelayan's mate, and she's a possessive beast.