My Bear Protector — Christy Rivers

I could smell the smoke on Tucker's flannel. I could hear each intake of breath being drawn into his chest. I could see the muscles in his throat constrict. “I would really like to kiss you, Hailey. Would that be okay?”

When Hailey runs away from an abusive boyfriend, she takes the first out-of-state job she can find, leaving behind a successful career to don an apron as the new cook on a cattle ranch. The days are hard and long, but at least she's safe. Romance is the furthest thing from her mind, but she still manages to catch the eye of a burly, rugged ranch hand.

Tucker Bell is the type of guy Hailey never knew existed. He's charming, polite, and--oh god--sexy. And he scares the crap out of Hailey. He wants her, but she can't seem to figure out why. Most of all, she's scared for him. Her ex has issues, and he's dangerous. If only she knew that Tucker has a dangerous side as well, and he'll do what it takes to claim the mate he craves...

Disclaimer: This 17,000 word novella contains some mature language and scenes. 18+ only.