There's no going back from abduction... Luci hates that most of her friends see her as fragile and in need of protection, rather than the strong woman she's growing into. Everyone but Ax, that is. She doesn't want a relationship. But she's more than happy to spend her time with the gorgeous warrior until unexpected intrigue forces them closer than ever. Ax will protect his Match... Luci owns Ax's heart before he realizes he's given it to her, but telling her that may send her running. When they're stuck together on an unplanned journey, Ax will do everything it takes to keep his mate safe. But she's stronger than she looks and she's not about to let Apsyns torture her... again. As danger swirls around them, so do the intense emotions they've been avoiding. To get back home they'll need to rely on each other, but facing their feelings may be even more frightening than fighting the Apsyns determined to end them.