Desiree lost her heart to Tahl before he moved away, pursuing a red-headed shifter. Devastated, she somehow managed to hope he got what he needed. Except, being part Fae, she now believes she's cursed him. Tahl has returned, unmated, refusing to share what transpired. When Tahl realizes what she has always meant to him, Desi desperately avoids him, refusing to be second choice. Her twenty-fifth birthday approaches, and hot from the chase, Tahl corners her. He triggers her heat and she must allow him to assuage it, however outraged and resentful she might be. The red-head follows Tahl, refusing to accept his mating-he can't be bonded should his mate die. The males fail to thwart the nefarious plan, and the true nature of both females is revealed. Only one bitch can win and keep Tahl's heart, and Desi won't lose.