When Emma Cassidy finally finds the strength to leave her abusive husband Eric, she receives some unexpected support from Max Dunmore, one of the police detectives who'd been witness to the results of her most recent assault. As her wounds begin to heal Max remains attentive, encouraging Emma's belief that maybe they could have a future together. But life's not always fair - a lesson she learns the hard way when her estranged husband's criminal past suddenly explodes and she is viciously pulled into its wake. This time, Emma's escape isn't driven by the fear of Eric's abuse, but rather by the acceptance that his unlawful activities could get her killed. Max Dunmore's years as a police detective have taught him the ins and outs of digging for the truth. But when it comes to matters of the heart, the truth follows its own rules. Max discovers this by first falling in love with the charming and beautiful Emma Cassidy, then by having to accept the reality that she has walked out of his life, leaving no clue as to where he can find her. But then, just over a year after her disappearance, a mysterious phone call leads him right to Emma's front door. Although he'd been hoping for an impassioned reunion, what Max finds has him quickly changing his priorities. It doesn't take long for him to understand Emma's reasons for leaving and when the truth forces them on the run, they find themselves thrust into a desperate fight for survival, risking it all for love and family.