On the run from her abusive husband, Mila Jones flees the big city for the safety of Butternut Lake. Ready to forge a new life, Mila's position as home health aide to Reid Ford is more than a job. It's a chance at a fresh start. Though her sullen patient seems determined to make her quit, she refuses to give up on him.

Haunted by the car accident that nearly killed him, Reid retreats to his brother's cabin on Butternut Lake and lashes out at anyone who tries to help. Reid wishes Mila would just go away . . . until he notices the strength, and the secrets, behind her sad, brown eyes. And while the days of summer unfold, Reid and Mila take the first steps to healing . . . and love.