Rebecca Worthen had been swept away by dashing Texas rancher Tanner Lathrop--but fled when she'd discovered she was carrying his baby. Certain that what Tanner felt for her was passion, not love, she'd set him free and tried to forget him.

Now, lying on her deathbed, Rebecca realized she'd made a terrible mistake. Tanner had a right to know about his child . . . and Rebecca's son would need his father more than ever. Knowing time was running out, she sent for Tanner.

The stubborn rancher couldn't forgive Rebecca for running away-or hiding his son. But despite his jaded heart, Tanner was determined to see that Rebecca lived . . . to become his wife.