The brothers claim her as leverage to protect the ranch. Fiona stays for the stability she has always lacked. Lachlan's presence steadies her even as the power between them shifts.

Every search through the debt records breaks the rules they set. Control shifts as hands brush over the papers and the encounter consumes them. Arguments turn into proximity that neither can resist. Each time the rules break further than the last.

The rival will exploit any fracture in their alliance. The ranch itself is at stake along with the fragile bond they have built. Any fracture between them could cost them everything. She holds Lachlan's gaze as the leather strap secures her wrists.