The human Chiarra is on the run. When she manages to cross the dangerous maelstrom, seeking refuge among the fascinating Gryffin, she never expects to become the prize in a vicious contest between two magnificent males. Descended from the winged gryffins and armed with poisonous barbs on their knuckles, the mighty Gryffin are humanoid creatures both deadly and dangerous. They are feared for their power and strength, though regarded as animal by the prejudiced humans dwelling on the far side of the treacherous divide. And yet, human females are highly prized as mates-it is perhaps every Gryffin male's fantasy to have a woman like Chiarra in his fold. Determined to save the girl from certain death, Jarrk fights for the right to claim her-only to be shamed in front of his people by the hostile, arrogant little human. Thus ensues a battle of wills between the two-a struggle born of pride, prejudice and misconception-fired by a dangerous, unwanted attraction that cannot be denied. By the time Chiarra's past catches up to her, Jarrk has developed a taste for all this sensual creature can offer him-and claimed Chiarra as his own. He'll kill the man who dares to touch his female. Now they are on the run, but a Gryffin and human together make a conspicuous pair. Though they might outwit the men who seek Chiarra's life, they'll never outrun the huge reward offered for her capture. Only a combination of human ingenuity and animal instinct will save them-only with unconditional trust can they find the true promise of love.