Melbourne

She's finally learned to say no—until fate sends her someone she can't refuse.

After a lifetime of abuse and disappointment, Sammy has built her world on independence. She runs a thriving restaurant, hires people who need second chances, and refuses to let anyone—especially a man—dictate her life again.

Then Storm Walsh calls out of the blue, claiming that Sammy is fated to be the mate of her son, Melbourne. Sammy laughs it off—until Melbourne himself shows up on her doorstep, handsome, patient, and entirely too sure that they belong together.

Melbourne isn't looking to control her—he's looking to protect her. As old wounds reopen and family secrets resurface, Sammy must decide whether to trust the dragon-blooded man who swears she's his destiny... or to walk away from the one love strong enough to melt her defenses.