Raven Blackwood is 23 and has always been the kind of woman people notice when she walks into a room.

With dark hair, tattoos scattered across her skin, several piercings, and an unapologetically alternative style, she gives off an intimidating first impression. She’s confident, sarcastic, and rarely lets anyone see beneath her tough exterior.

But Raven’s confidence is partly armor.

She grew up learning not to depend too heavily on anyone. She hates feeling vulnerable and has a habit of pushing people away whenever they get too close. Relationships have always been complicated for her because she’s terrified of giving someone the power to hurt her.