Camden Crawford knows how to take a hit.

As the thirty-something captain of the Exeter Seagulls, he's built a career on strength, silence, and shielding his emotions as ruthlessly as he does his teammates. But when an injury rocks his team—and a series of frustrating media storms threaten to unravel his legacy—Cam finds himself one mistake away from losing everything he's worked for. The last thing he needs is a distraction.

Enter Brent Parks: sunshine in tattooed skin, newly settled in Exeter, and a little too perceptive for Cam's comfort.

Brent came to England chasing purpose. What he didn't expect was a brooding rugby player with eyes like winter and walls like stone. But the chemistry? Immediate. Irresistible. And very, very mutual. Brent isn't afraid to get under Camden's skin—and he's definitely not afraid to stay there.

When a one-time tattoo consult turns into stolen kisses, slow mornings, and a summer of something that feels a lot like more, both men are forced to face the truth: Falling for each other wasn't in the game plan—and neither is what happens when the spotlight turns on their relationship.

With mounting pressure, cross-continental tours, and past insecurities clawing their way to the surface, Camden has to decide if love is a risk he's finally ready to take. And Brent? He's ready to prove that he's not just a distraction—he's the reason to stay.

A swoony, slow-burn MM sports romance full of banter, bruises, and unexpected tenderness. Featuring: grumpy/sunshine vibes, emotional intimacy, found family, a meddling little brother, and the hottest "oops, I sent you a sex tape by accident" moment in romance.

Contains mature content. A complete list of content warnings can be found on the author's website.