Ranger by Theresa Hissong

When Hope Alexander arrives at the Shaw pride, on the verge of death and scarred from her old pride, Ranger’s panther demands he become her personal protector.
Hope isn’t your typical female panther. She was raised to defend herself and those she loves. Teaming up with the dark-haired Guardian, Hope becomes a teacher to the females, giving them confidence to defend themselves in a time of need.

It doesn’t take long before Ranger and Hope realize that they are destined to be together, but Hope refuses the Guardian’s touch for fear of her old alpha and what he could do to Ranger if she is found. Ranger will risk his life to leave the pride in search of the one who harmed his mate.