A half-dwarf thief with zero patience for wealthy snobs. The rich noble she's assigned to as a fake bodyguard. And an art heist that must go on. despite any feelings that might be catching. Forced to join the Takers Guild in order to save a loved one, Maerryl Kirim thought her life had already hit its low point. But then she's assigned to play fake bodyguard for Lady Dove out in the countryside. Rich, snobby, privileged beyond belief--Maerryl despises everything about her from their first meeting. Dove Wistrallo has no desire for a bodyguard, thank you very much.

But her parents insist, and getting out from under their thumb is like pushing a boulder with a paintbrush. Plus, there's her dangerously lucrative magical ability that paints a target on her back. Tied together despite their protests, Dove and Maerryl's friction grows as rapidly as their irksome attraction. But as they learn about each other--their hurts, hopes, and hearts--will their tightly-held secrets keep them apart?.