Hard Core

He was sent to take a life. Instead, he saved one—and might lose his heart in the process.What was supposed to be a simple, no-strings mission becomes a fight for redemption when mercenary Cristian Slade spares a life instead of taking it. Now wounded and on the run, he finds unlikely refuge on a remote Nicaraguan island—under the care of the last woman he ever expected.Haunted by tragedy, renowned surgeon Alana O'Grady has traded wealth and recognition for a life of service, healing the members of a secluded native tribe. When her quiet world is upended by a rugged, dangerously compelling stranger, her instincts as a doctor—and a woman—are put to the test. Cristian's presence puts everyone she protects at risk, but turning him away could cost him his life… and break her heart.As the danger closing in threatens everything they both believe in, Alana and Cristian must decide: will they walk away from the fire between them—or fight to keep it burning?