For the first time in her life, sheltered Leora Mason-St. James was enjoying her newfound freedom. But when a family crisis forced her to return home, she feared that her homecoming would stir up painful memories. She never dreamed that her past held the key to her future. It began when she became Max Silver's new secretary. The rugged, hot-tempered architect was every woman's secret fantasy. But Leora sensed a gentleness beneath his rugged facade; she recognized the pain he tried so hard to hide. And in Leora, Max found a vulnerable woman who longed to be free of her inhibitions. Was he the man to take her to a place beyond their most passionate imaginings... to a love stronger than they'd ever known?