Back in the game after the worst loss of his life, can this disillusioned defenseman rediscover love for the game . . . and a beautiful photojournalist?

I swore I'd never play hockey again. After my mom died in a car accident and I quit to raise my sixteen-year-old sister, I've had no desire to chase my NHL dreams. But now, the kid is away at an expensive college and a buddy took over coaching for the scandalized Florida Sun Kings. He's begging me to help him out. As team captain.

No sooner than I'm back in the locker room, a gorgeous but nosy reporter mistakes me for a construction worker. I don't bother to correct her—I’ve been burned by journalists before. And when she finds out who I really am, her indignation reminds me why she's just the latest newshound I should keep on the other side of the blue line.

But she’s different. She wants a human-interest column, not a sports beat. There's a kindness to her I've never felt before. And she inspires my little sis.

Can I trust her with my deepest secrets? With my heart? Or am I setting myself up for another devastating betrayal?