by Erin Marie Bassett (Author), Liza Illuzzi (Editor)

When the hyper-independent nurse falls for the adorably anxious hockey player, she is forced to admit she doesn't need a man, she wants one.

Crosby Loughty is hockey royalty but the pressure to maintain his father's standards is giving prison more than prince. But maintaining his control becomes difficult when the new dog-sitter turns out to be a vibrant, nurturing, beautiful woman.

And the task becomes impossible when he realizes she shares his love of Crocs.

Laila Torres has built a good life. Her job as a labor and delivery nurse is fulfilling and challenging, her apartment is arranged exactly to her tastes, and her bag always has her "just in case kit". She loves being the girl people call when they need help.

After a night of dog-sitting, Laila agrees to be Crosby's last minute date to a charity gala which leads the two to share a night of steamy connection. Both agree in the morning to let it go and appreciate it for what it was. Just a hot, consuming, one-time fling.

Until two pink lines change everything.

Crosby doesn't believe he can be a good dad because his own father isn't the role model the world thinks he is. Laila is afraid she'll lose herself if she lets Crosby sweep her off her feet. So far, they've both managed well enough on their own, but now they have to choose to build a life together or risk never feeling the depth of their true love.

TROPES & MICROTROPES:

Spicy Hockey Romcom

Accidental Pregnancy

Found Family

He Falls First / He Says ILY First

Team Chat

WAG Chat

Puppy Character

Hyper-independent FMC

Anxious MMC (with on-page anxiety episodes)

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