Jena Grant and her younger brother Randy, shocked and grief stricken by the murder of their older brother, Jared, stand numbly by his grave. "There are no clues," the sheriff said before taking his place with the other mourners. In the ten years since the Grant family's move to Texas, they have had to face the accidental death of their parents, a baby sister, and now Jared. At eighteen, Jena is overwhelmed by the responsibility thrust upon her for the welfare and safety of Randy and their ranch. Seven days after Jared's funeral the powerful and menacing Walker clan ride in making demands. Everett Walker wants their land, claims Jena, a mere girl, could never run a ranch. When she refuses his offer, Everett suggests that she should marry one of his sons. When Everett's suggestion turns into an ultimatum, Jena balks. Carl Walker taunts her with whispered threats against Randy unless she agrees.