Stuck in the middle of a massive storm's fury with its unprecedented flooding and damage, school teacher Lauren Christensen rushes out into the elements to bring her dog to safety. She finds her dog, Buster, in the arms of Collin Traub, who's walking through the torrential rain. Unable to evacuate, she brings man and dog into the safety of her barn for the night. Despite him saving her dog, Lauren is still mad at Collin who refused a date with her five years ago; she's certain he eagerly gave his number to every woman in town except her.

Once the storm has cleared, Lauren finds out that her family home has washed away but instead of feeling down, she's determined to rebuild it in her own way. Until her new home is complete, she stays at the relief center, sleeping on cots and eating simple meals with her community. She's shocked when her businessman fiancA(C) moves forward with construction without her. Upset with her fiancA(C), they spend some time apart, which allows her to see Collin's strengths as a community leader, his kindness to others, his significant skills as an artisan, and his easy way with one particular leash-escaping dog.

A true friendship grows between Lauren and Collin. Maybe it is a little more than just friendship? Collin's brother gives him some sage relationship advice allowing him to deal with some family history and reach out to Lauren. Their love grows as they build their new home together.