Grinder

Gage McPherson was the Seattle Sharks' best Grinder, until he shattered his shoulder last season. Time heals all wounds . . . but the heartbroken single dad has more than his share of trust issues. The playboy only lets one girl close to his iced-over heart-his pint-sized daughter who's the center of his world. She's the only thing more important to him than hockey, and he trusts no one with her . . . except me.

We've been friends since we were kids, and I love his daughter like she's my own, so what's the easiest solution to help Gage out? Move in and be his live-in nanny for the season. As far as she goes, the arrangement is perfect. But her drop-dead-sexy father? Frustrating on every possible level.

There is a thick, professional line drawn between us by his own hand, and despite understanding the terms, my body is practically begging him to cross it. Our chemistry is off the charts, but one misstep, and we could hurt the one person we love most. This game is all-or-nothing. Can I risk my heart on a guy who is known for the shut-out, on and off the ice?

Contains mature themes.