Rand Peabody radiated iron will, fearsome strength, an ability to control things lesser men might back away from... which made him perfect for Chelsea King. Or so her father thought. He'd hired the soldier-turned-bodyguard because he'd believed Rand could protect her and look beyond her beauty and headstrong nature. And Rand did see through her facade to realize he needed Chelsea as much as she needed him. But love? That was out of the question. Especially when that kind of thinking could only get a man in trouble, make him forget rule number one: protect the priceless gift in his care without losing his heart.