She's running from her past. He's building a future he can control. But love? That was never part of the plan... After a childhood spent scraping by, Gage Blackwell made one vow-he would never go without again. Now a successful entrepreneur in the heart of Carolina Cove, Gage has built a financial empire through sheer grit and hustle. Multiple businesses, multiple income streams, and total control. That's the key to safety... and peace of mind. Until Sloane Walker shows up. Fiercely independent and hiding secrets of her own, Sloane is used to living in the shadows. On the run from her powerful, dangerous family, she's been drifting from place to place, never staying long enough to grow roots. Her father and brothers may not want to hurt her-but they'll do whatever it takes to silence her. Because Sloane knows too much about the dirty money their "respectable" accounting firm launders for criminals. After riding out a hurricane together, sparks fly between Gage and Sloane-and something deeper begins to bloom. But the closer they get, the more Sloane's past threatens to catch up. When her brother tracks her down and makes a dangerous ultimatum, she's faced with a devastating choice: disappear forever or risk everything for love. Gage has always believed control is everything. Sloane has never known what freedom truly feels like. Together, they'll have to learn that love isn't about running or holding on too tight-it's about standing still long enough to fight for something real. Perfect for fans of small-town romance, strong heroines, protective heroes, emotional slow burns, and heartwarming happily-ever-afters, this sweet contemporary romance is a must-read second-chance at life and love.