Shay Sandoval has big dreams and works hard to achieve them. But her older sister likes that fast, easy money and finds herself in a hot mess of trouble when she helps her boyfriend scam Houston's underworld. Terrified for her sister and herself, Shay turns to the only man powerful enough to save them-former prize fighter and Russian mob enforcer Alexei Sarnov.

Just as ruthless in business as he was on the streets, Alexei has built a new life as a respected, wealthy businessman. When he learns Shay's troubled sister has invoked the wrath of Houston's criminal elite, Alexei rushes to intercept Shay before the city's worst men can get their hands on her.

But now that she's under his protection-and under his hands-Alexei realizes that he wants and needs more than he's ever dared to hope for in his harsh life. He wants Shay in his home and in his bed-but not as merely his mistress.

Earning Shay's love and trust just might be the hardest deal he's ever sealed...