Stranded on the dying planet of Zerris, Marlee longs for the one thing she can't have...a family. Due to the noxious gas covering the planet, she can't conceive a child, and the Council, determined to repopulate the planet, have ended her third-and most precious-relationship. They insist she pick a new mate and try again, but she's sworn off love and the possibility of ever having a real family. When a ship from the thriving planet of Urslat crashes on Zerris, Marlee rescues the ship's daring captain, Tyris. His ship is grounded, winter is setting in, and he won't survive without help. She offers him a deal...he can live with her if he pretends to be her mate so the Council will leave her alone. Tyris agrees and a hungry desire sparks between them as they battle the harsh winter and primitive conditions. Their attraction grows, and soon, keeping their distance becomes impossible, even more challenging than the snow, the Council, and, for Marlee, the risks of a real relationship.
