Their relationship intensifies after she discovers him severely injured by his valuable but treacherous bull. Nuala first secures the animal at considerable risk to herself, then rides for help. She remains with Donal, first as nurse, then as an aide. As the weeks go by and they continue to work closely together, they both recognize the feeling that has grown between them, but it seems doomed to wither unfulfilled. Shadows, old and new, loom over the man, and the irresponsibility of Nuala's brother brings tragedy to their closest friends. Can they breach these barriers and win through to the life they long to build together?