Ever. The Protector Series, #1

Detective Asher Peterson has a problem.  Nichelle Reed.  She's running from him, and he wants it to stop.  From the moment he sees her, he knows they're right for each other, but she keeps him at arm's length.  Convincing her to give their relationship a real chance is his toughest assignment yet.  But Asher is prepared to do anything to make Nichelle a permanent part of his life. Personal security specialist Nichelle 'Nikki' Reed doesn't have problems.  She is the problem.  Living her life freely and on her own terms, she isn't in the market for a relationship, no matter how much she wanted to climb the mountain of a man better known as Asher Peterson.  Pseudo-friends with benefits she could handle.  An exclusive relationship with a man, who turned her insides to mush with a single touch, isn't part of the plan.
As they navigate their changing dynamic, personal and professional issues arise.  Nikki's past, from her time as a Marine, returns to haunt her, posing a potential threat.  A secret is uncovered, which throws Ash's relationship with his family into chaos.  Together, Ash and Nikki face their personal demons while performing their professional duties. Can their arrangement turned relationship survive the obstacles they encounter?  Is their foundation strong enough?  Or will genuine love remain the mountain too high to climb? **Note from the Author**This book contains subject matter that could evoke intense emotions.
 While it is a love story, there are instances of violence, death, child abandonment, strong language, physical and emotional abuse, parental manipulation, police brutality, and human trafficking.