Virginia Finley's world was already fragile after the sudden death of her mother. Left to care for her younger sister, Josephine, she accepted help from the one man who offered it freely. Hunter Maddox is a decorated police officer and trusted face in their community but his badge hides something far more dangerous. What begins as protection and support spirals into control and isolation. Hunter's charm masks an unexpected history. As fear tightens its grip, Gia's world becomes smaller and more dangerous. But just as the walls begin to close in, an unexpected ally steps forward. Nicolas Diaz, who was once just a familiar face in class, is now a steady presence in her life. He recognizes the signs others miss. He's seen them before, in someone he loves. And he's not afraid to fight alongside her. In a gut-wrenching battle of secrets and survival, Gia must navigate the thin line between fear and freedom. And when the trap is set, and the hunter closes in, only one question remains: What if the girl he thought would never leave is finally ready to fight back?