When scientist Kara’s research vessel is ambushed by space pirates, her mission ends in fire and silence. Stranded on a desolate planet with no way to call for help, she’s ready to give up until Thane appears. A quiet, battle-worn alien Guardian with eyes that have seen too much.

Taking shelter in a hidden outpost, Kara tries to rebuild a sense of safety, though Thane’s presence unsettles her in ways she can’t explain. His steady calm, his discipline, the rare flicker of warmth when their eyes meet it all chips away at her fear.

But Thane carries secrets of his own. Once a protector exiled for defying orders, he’s lived with guilt long enough to forget what trust feels like. Now, hunted by pirates and haunted by his past, he’s faced with an impossible choice: keep running, or fight for the woman who’s made him believe in something more.

As danger closes in, Kara and Thane must decide whether love can survive the weight of their worlds or if some distances are too wide to cross.