Aidan has been warned about the dangers of being with a human. His people live on the edges of society, in the shadows and alleys. And one day, if he's willing to submit to the birthright ceremony, he'll lead the next generation to continued wealth and prosperity across their territory. There's just one little problem. The first time he meets college student, Emmerson, a fire is ignited in his blood, and no matter how hard he tries, he can't resist their connection. She is everything he shouldn't want or need. Human. Fragile. While he hides his burgeoning feelings for her, danger lurks at the border of their territory, ready to pounce. The longer Aidan denies his birthright, the weaker he gets, and the closer to human he becomes. If Aidan doesn't assume his rightful place, he'll put his people at risk, perhaps even the whole town. But if he agrees to become the next leader, any hope of being human, of being with Emmerson, dies. In the end, who will he choose to protect?