Lean on Me — Carolyn Seabaugh

At fourteen, Nicki Eaton had been betrayed, her innocent trust badly shaken by a family 'friend.' Now a grown woman, she was tough enough to face life's challenges head-on - all but one. When she met broad-shouldered boat bilder Clay Parnell, her heart embraced him without hesitation. If only her body could do the same...

Clay knew Nicki had secrets. He couldn't help admiring this fragile, vulnerable-looking woman who was so damned alone. He longed to hold her, to heal her, to share his strength with her, but she wanted none of his caretaking. Still, he hoped that someday he could show her it was safe to lean on the one you loved.