In spite of having a tragic childhood, Matthew Jennings has overcome the odds and has become a lawman. He returns to Independence, Missouri, but doesn't know if he can live in the same area as Caroline Fletcher, the love of his life. He quickly finds out the fun-loving girl who could shoot and rope better than any man on the ranch has become quite a lady and is now engaged to the wealthy son of a banker. Caroline is shocked to see Matthew on the streets of Independence. After struggling with a broken heart when Matthew left, she has finally moved on. She is willing to push her feelings for him aside to marry Samuel Brown even though it will demand changes in her lifestyle. In 1858 Independence is small. Matthew and Caroline must confront each other often. Still, Matthew knows he cannot offer her the life that her rich fiancée can. When Samuel's family is found to be involved with illegal dealings in the bank, the situation explodes. Will the life-and-death situation that Caroline finds herself in be enough to make Caroline and Matthew realize they need and still love each other?