When the U.S. Navy's first female SEAL meets a cocky French commando assigned to PATCH-COM... sparks fly. But he has a secret, one that could break her heart. WINNER: "Top Pick" Author Shout's 2024 Reader Ready Award In the beginning, he was annoying and aggravating. Then he became a friend and stalwart protector. Now, her feelings for Lucien Montcourt were causing Nastjia 'Nasty' Moreno a world of internal conflict, and she could not allow herself to become distracted. A recent sting operation produced a surprising piece of intelligence; her father, who'd been missing for several years, was alive...but in the hands of the Colima cartel! How and why were questions for later. First, she and the team needed to find a way to rescue her dad. Planning the mission, however, is proving harder than anticipated until the FBI provides a way. With plans underway, Moreno focuses on the operation, promising herself she will deal with these new feelings for Lucien later. Little does she realize her laser-focus is pushing him away, robbing them both of precious time. Montcourt had long ago decided to dedicate himself to Nastjia in whatever way she would have him, for however long she saw fit. It was the best-case scenario to protect them both from heartache...or so he thought. A tender and passionate moment changes everything, and now he wants more. But does she? When the woman he's falling for begins to avoid him, Montcourt is left wondering what he did wrong, and if he'll ever have a second chance. Frustrated, he prepares for the difficult rescue operation determined to protect her from harm, come what may. When the team is betrayed by a trusted ally, secrets are revealed that endanger Moreno's life, and threaten to break her heart. Will the mission to rescue her father succeed? And when tragedy strikes, will she be able to save Montcourt, and tell him how she feels, before it's too late?