For Aúrea Belle Shepard, everything she's ever wanted has always been right in front of her. At 17, she decides to leave her hometown to get away from her abusive foster father and oblivious foster mother. Her freedom from them is worth leaving everything behind--except her best friend, Prentice.

Prentice has been Aúrea's rider and protector since they became friends, so when she returns to their hometown, Prentice tries to reconnect and create those roles for himself all over again. But things are different now. Aúrea has changed, her circumstances have changed, and so has her need for him. But there's one thing that hasn't changed and never will--their love for each other. A trip home to say goodbye for Aúrea turns into the opportunity to have the life and love she's always wanted.