Nate Kincaid, wants to get out of debt and get his family off his back about his relationship status. The second means he needs a serious girlfriend, but after the death of his fiance, he isn't ready. No one knows about his nightmares - the ones that chase him into the dark places of grief. Dealing with debt means his fledgling veterinary practice must be successful - business before anything else. Always. Maybe a pretend relationship would solve his second problem so he can concentrate on the first. Full-time psychologist and part-time model, Lauren Royall, has the perfect life. As a therapist she helps people. As a model, her free spirit reigns. When Nate suggests she pose as his girlfriend, she accepts on a lark. Lauren senses his pain and wants to help. She hadn't counted on falling for the guy or the painful memories from her past his situation evokes.