Page 8 of The Pucking Single Dad

“Because it’s hard for me,” Luna explained, her voice thick with emotion.

“I can’t be here, under the same roof, pretending I’m just Adam’s nanny when every time I’m around you, I feel somethingso much more. It’s not fair to him or me. I need to figure out how to balance this... whatever this is, before I can stay and not feel torn in two.”

Hunter sat in silence, reflecting on Luna’s words. She was right—his son’s well-being had to come first. Since his mother’s passing, his son had lacked the stability he desperately needed. As much as he wished Luna could stay, he knew it would be best for her not to spend the night.

He watched her as she dressed, a mix of regret and admiration swirling within him. There was something about Luna that made him want to be open and vulnerable despite his usual struggle to show his emotions. Before she left, he felt compelled to say something important. With determination, he stood up and walked over to her, knowing that being honest was the only way to truly care for both her and his son.

“Wait,” Hunter said.

He grabbed her and passionately kissed her again.

“I don’t know what this is,” he told her vulnerably. “But whatever this is, I am glad tonight happened, and I hope you do too.”

“I do,” Luna said honestly. “I really am happy.”

“I’ll see you tomorrow,” he replied. “Get home safely.”

“I’ll see you tomorrow,” Luna repeated with a smile.

He watched her walk out of his bedroom, and just like that, Luna was gone again.

Chapter Four: Becoming Professional

The next few days settled into a normal routine. Luna spent her time at Hunter’s house, working with Adam, and their bond grew stronger with each passing day. She found joy in being his nanny, relishing the moments when his eyes lit up as she read to him. The trust he placed in her made her heart swell, and she felt a growing connection that was almost maternal as if he were her own child.

Meanwhile, her relationship with Hunter remained strictly professional since their last encounter. Yet, the sexual tension between them was undeniable, a connection that hung in the air. They both understood that their chemistry had to be put on hold for the sake of Adam, who needed their full attention. Yet, even in those moments of shared smiles and playful interactions with Adam, Luna couldn’t help but feel the magnetic pull of her attraction to Hunter.

Hunter had also been busy training for the upcoming hockey season. His days were long and very tiring. They couldn’t be together, even if they wanted to. There was no time. Adam needed attending to, and Hunter had to focus on work. He was the sole provider for his son, and he had to ensure his son was well taken care of.

Hunter trained vigorously. He loved to play hockey, but as much as he loved the sport, a part of his mind always drifted back to Luna. He had to make a mindful effort not to let her consume his thoughts. This season was crucial. He and his team needed to win as many games as possible this season. Hunter stood on the ice, taking a break from training.

“Hey, Hunter,” You distracted or something.” Hunter’s teammate, Alex, asked. “You haven’t exactly been on your best game today.”

Hunter shook his head back and forth.

“I’m good,” he said quickly. “I’m just a little tired. I didn’t get much sleep last night.”

“Ah, I see,” Alex said. “You haven’t found a nanny yet? That has to be difficult. It has to be hard to balance work and a kid, man.”

Hunter cleared his throat.

“Actually,” Hunter started to say. “I did hire a nanny, finally. She is great with Adam.”

“Oh yeah?” Alex inquired. “Is she hot?”

Hunter’s expression suddenly turned stern just at the thought of someone else finding Luna attractive. Even though they weren’t officially together, he had no desire to be with anyone else, nor did he want her with anyone else. The idea that someone else saw her beauty felt like a personal threat.

“You know the rules,” Hunter said very seriously. “Attractive or not, never hit on my nanny, Alex. It makes things more difficult. You have to keep things professional.”

“Professional,” Alex stated with a huff. “Where is the fun in professional?”

“There isn’t any,” Hunter said in a matter-of-fact tone. “Now, let’s get back to training.”

Hunter and Alex skated back to the rest of their team. The team huddled up to listen to the coach speak. It seemed the coach had something important to say, and there was an earnest feeling in the air. Hunter wondered what all the commotion was about.

“All right, everyone,” the team’s coach, Frank, said. “Gather round, everyone.”

Everyone huddled up and listened intently. This meeting was not on the team’s schedule. Everyone wondered what was going on.