Ethan Marlowe spent a whole year tackling the tough challenges of building an oil pipeline in the far reaches of Alaska. The tough climate and solitude had pushed him to his limits, but now, with the last bolt secured and the final piece welded, he was finally heading back to the home he loved and the woman who was waiting for him. Sarah Bennett, his high school sweetheart, had always been his rock during every storm, every restless night, and every victory.