Empty Net (Scoring Chances Book 4)

Isaac Drake, goalie and captain of the Spartanburg Spitfires, ended last season with an unexpected playoff appearance. He has found family with his coach and mentor, Misha Samarin, and hopes to make a serious run for the Kelly Cup. His plans shift when Laurent St. Savoy, his archnemesis, is traded to the Spitfires. After Laurent's behavior during last year's playoffs, Isaac wants nothing to do with him—despite finding him attractive. This changes when Isaac learns the reason behind Laurent's actions. Laurent grew up as the only son of a legendary NHL goalie in an abusive household, constantly treated as a disappointment. When he is traded to the Spitfires to escape his father's control, he has no interest in making friends. However, he finds himself drawn to Isaac Drake and has an opportunity to explore his sexuality for the first time. As end-of-season pressures mount, Laurent begins to struggle. Facing the playoffs and a rivalry that has become personal, Isaac questions whether he can support Laurent through the strain on their relationship. Content note: This book contains non-graphic references to past childhood physical and emotional abuse, as well as disordered eating (bulimia, restricted eating, and related thoughts).