Another Charge by Alexa Padgett
A grumpy single dad. A warm-hearted nanny. One determined eight-year-old who's decided to play matchmaker—whether her uncle likes it or not. Silas Whittaker doesn't do distractions. As the Houston Wildcatters' first head coach, he's built his entire life around discipline, loyalty, and the little girl who now means everything to him. After too many losses, his heart is sealed shut.
Then Paloma walks in…all that red hair, teal glasses, a smile that lights up his niece…and suddenly Silas's carefully constructed walls have a crack in them he doesn't know what to do about.
She knows better than to fall for her boss. He knows better than to risk everything again. But long practices, late-night road trips, and one very determined eight-year-old have a way of breaking down even the most guarded hearts.
Because sometimes the bravest thing a man can do is let someone in.
Another Charge is a deeply emotional, high-heat hockey romance perfect for fans of Emma St. Clair and Erin McLellan. Features: grumpy/sunshine, single dad, nanny romance, found family, slow burn, steamy HEA. Standalone with no cliffhanger.
➜ Continue the series: Another Shot (Book 2) follows team captain Cormac and the woman brave enough to believe he's worth the risk.
USA Today bestseller Alexa Padgett's captivating single dad turned hockey coach and spirited nanny threaten to set the ice ablaze, proving that sometimes, the riskiest power play of all is falling head over ice skates . . .
Having poured my heart into caring for my previous charges, bidding them farewell left an indelible ache that I couldn't bear to repeat. The idea of restarting as a nanny didn't excite me in the least . . . until I crossed paths with Beatrix, a frightened and angry little girl who tugged at my heartstrings.
Determined to help this vulnerable child who craves affection, I find myself drawn to her uncle, the irresistible Silas. His magnetic eyes, capable of holding me captive, promise to fulfill the dreams I've long held dear.
Silas, scarred by a troubled past, knows next to nothing about raising children or creating a loving home. That's where I step in.
They call me a "fixer" in the world of hockey. Yet, I question whether I can mend the fractures between uncle and niece. Despite my doubts, the life we could build together beckons me. The catch? Taking a chance on this single dad might land my heart in the penalty box for good . . .
Contains mature themes.