Fearing either ridicule or platitudes, Ava Bennet is keeping quiet.

Ex-pole dancer Ava Bennett is ready for a tree change, even though the idea of moving to Lawson Grady's hometown freaks her out. Aside from dancing, Ava is a skilled cabinetmaker and intends to build her own home. But when does life ever run smoothly? Ava is determined to rise to the challenge despite an infuriating face-off with a sub-contractor. The biggest obstacle Ava needs to overcome is her private fear-one she's reluctant to admit to herself, let alone share.

Ex-soldier Lawson, who has a few secrets of his own, is a gentle, kind-hearted guy who's always ready to listen. Helping people and animals is in his blood. Nevertheless, his type of work can be hazardous, especially when someone chooses the wrong side of the law. And then a young man's actions trigger his suspicions.

Lawson's instinct tells him Ava is also hiding something. But his efforts to help her come clean are in vain - until there's no avoiding it.