Temptation On Ice

Sebastian

Under the brightest lights, I'm supposed to be unshakable-captain of a brand-new hockey team, single dad to a boy who's the mirror of the wife I lost, and son to parents who think love comes with instructions. But the truth is, I'm cracking under the weight of expectations I can't seem to meet. I'm desperate for something-anything-that feels like peace.

Then I meet Tucker. Flannel-wearing, steady-eyed, and achingly patient, he trains service dogs for wounded veterans-and somehow, he sees right through me. One visit to his puppy-filled facility is all it takes for my son to light up... and for me to feel something I haven't in years: my racing mind to calm.

When I finally let my grief spill free, Tucker doesn't just listen-he holds space for it. Holds me. And suddenly, I'm thinking about him everywhere I shouldn't. But letting him in means challenging everything I thought I knew about myself-and risking a chance at something more than just the next game.

Tucker

I walked away from my career in law enforcement after losing two partners in the line of duty. Now I keep my world small-just me, my staff, the dogs we train, and the veterans whose lives they change. Publicity isn't my thing, but when the Hydras hockey team offers to sponsor a service dog, my nonprofit needs the boost too badly to say no.

I wasn't counting on meeting Sebastian. Gorgeous, driven, hopelessly devoted to his son... and carrying a grief I recognize in my bones. I know better than to fall for a straight guy, but every time he looks at me like I'm his safe place, my defenses crumble.

Our connection is fierce and fragile all at once-something that could shatter when faced with the scars we both hide. But maybe, if we're brave enough, this time the temptation is worth the heartbreak.