Shauna Brayson is a naive teenage girl. During a brief summer encounter, she is casually introduced to Jim Crandall, an arrogant, experienced young man seven years her senior. Never having dated before, she finds him charming and exciting. Little does she know that Jim's subtle controlling nature will eventually lead her down a dark path that will alter her life forever.

Their union is filled with hardships and abuse, heartbreak and tears. Following a bitter quarrel, Jim tragically dies in an unexpected accident. Reeling from Jim's sudden death, Shauna abruptly finds herself facing financial ruin and life-threatening danger. With nowhere to turn, she reaches out to an affluent stranger, Ryan Randolph.

But who is this man...this handsome stranger? Shauna is tortured by suspicions and insecurities. Will he guard her secrets? Can he protect her from harm? What does the future hold for her? Will she always be indebted to him? Does she have a choice, or will she forever be...bound by secrets?