Paper Rings

There are only two things I’ve ever truly wanted in my life. To be a goalie in the NHL and JJ Hanson.

In a twisted way, both dreams have come true. Rather than a spot on the roster though, I’m now the first female goalie coach in the NHL. JJ Hanson’s coach, specifically.

Not only is he one of my players—making him totally off limits—he’s also a single dad and still technically married. Oh, and thanks to my father’s meddling, he’s now my roommate, along with his cousin and her three kids, my sister and her four-year-old twins, my cousin, and JJ’s daughter, who I unfortunately adore.

Yup, I’m living with six kids under the age of five, and the only man I’ve ever loved.

There was a time when JJ was my closest friend, and for one perfect moment, he was mine. Now we don’t even talk. JJ is determined to change that, though, and when opportunity strikes and suddenly both of my dreams are within reach, I have to make a decision. Can I step out onto that ice as the first female goalie in the NHL and trust JJ with my heart?

I’ve never been one to walk away from a challenge. Maybe the only way JJ and I can move forward is to go back to the start.