From a young age, I knew two things to be true. Number one, I was going to play professional softball. And number two, in order to get there, I couldn't allow myself any distractions. Ever.

Being a type 1 diabetic catcher at a Division I college, I'm no stranger to challenges. But when my dad gets diagnosed with cancer, and my mom finds herself drowning in his medical bills, losing our health insurance while my dad becomes unrecognizable has me questioning my own strength.

Cane Hale is the stepson of retired NHL legend Tripp Talmage. He's also NEU's most beloved baseball player. At least, he was before one mistake has everyone second-guessing his integrity, and he finds himself at odds with social media backlash.

As NEU's first type 1 diabetic female catcher, I have my share of fans. And when Cane approaches me, offering to pay for my prescriptions in return for me faking a friendship to help him save his image... I somehow find myself saying yes under one condition-no romance. No feelings.

Because I don't do boyfriends. Especially ones that look like Cane Hale.

But when my dad dies, Cane is there, being everything I need him to be, making it hard not to fall for him. And though he distracts me from my grief, eventually, I know I'm going to come head-to-head with the pain.

So, will I let Cane hold my hand while I face it? Or will I do what I do best and push him away?

Not long ago, I would have known the answer.

But now, I have no idea.