Theo Mathis doesn't regret defying the general manager during his brief stint on the Seattle Rainiers last season. The rainbow tape on his stick cost him dearly, but he'd do it again in a heartbeat… even though it means he'll never get called up from the minors again while that GM is at the helm.

Then a flood of injuries leaves Seattle desperate for players, and Theo gets called up after all. But he's warned: provoke the GM again, and he will regret it.

Except stick tape wasn't the only line Theo skated over, and the temptation to cross it again has nothing to do with spite.

Equipment manager Christian Hayes has had that hot minor league player living rent-free in his head ever since they hooked up last year. It wasn't love, but it was fun, and he wishes they could do it again because they want to—not as an act of rebellion. If Christian's dad ever finds out, there will be hell to pay. But it's a non-issue, since his dad—the team's GM—has vowed to never call up that player again no matter how bad the team needs him… and he doesn't even know Theo and Christian hooked up.

Now Theo's back in the Rainiers' locker room. They don't dare risk a rematch—they both value their careers too much. All they have to do is ride this out for a few games until Theo's sent back down. Easy enough. Right?

But their mutual attraction refuses to be ignored.

And it looks like Theo's going to be staying a while.