Thrown from one dangerous situation to the next when she and her family are rescued from the imminent explosion of their space ship, Magnolia finds herself at the mercy of a ruthless band of pirates. One man's dark smoldering gaze draws her like no other and has her offering to help the men who have rescued them. Kesh was not expecting his mate to fall into his hands, or the extent he will go to make her his. When trouble finds them and Magnolia's life is in danger, he will do whatever it takes to protect her. Fascinated despite herself, Magnolia finds herself torn between her desire for Kesh and her need for freedom, until he brands her as his and she cannot escape from the truth of his claim or the longing of her heart.