OMG, I can just see the Headlines. “Sheriff Hires the Town’s Notorious Speedster for His Nanny.” But I am out of options.
Stacey is still the same thrill-seeker who earned her first speeding ticket from me.
The tension between us is so thick I could cut it with a knife.
She's wild and free, and I'm all about law and order.
She’s young enough to be my daughter.
Her lean, athletic build, vibrant personality, and zest for life break through all my walls.
I want her. I can’t keep my eyes and hands off her.
By day, she cares for my daughter; by night, she cares for me.
My daughter is not looking for a new mommy, and Stacey may not work in our world.
Stacey’s questionable trustworthiness could be disastrous.
The loose lips of this town could ruin my reputation.
But giving her up might cost me more than just my reputation—it could break my heart.
At 41 years old, is a total force to be reckoned with in the cozy small-town of Charming. He rocks that tough exterior and alpha male vibes like it's second nature. Standing tall with a physique sculpted by years of public service and piercing blue eyes that see right through you, he's a sight to behold. And let's not forget that silver-streaked dark hair, always styled short and no-nonsense, adding to his no-messing-around demeanor. Outwardly, he's all about rules and efficiency, playing strictly by the book. But underneath that frosty exterior, he's a devoted single dad with a soft spot for his daughter, Raleigh. His love for her shines through, showing a tenderness he saves just for his family. Losing his wife, Anne, to COVID hit him hard. It's turned him into a bit of a clean freak, always sanitizing everything around him. A quiet tribute to his ongoing battle against the invisible enemy that took his love away.
Stacey Brownlee
She is a lively 26-year-old living in the heart of Charming. Stacey is a thrill-seeker at heart, always on the lookout for her next adrenaline-fueled adventure. She loves speeding (which is how she and Sheriff Manning became enemies years ago), and she's a dreamer. She has a soft spot for the simpler, rustic farm life and has a profound love for animals. Her azure blue eyes sparkle with an undying spirit of adventure and her sun-kissed brown hair is often pulled back into a ponytail. Her energetic lifestyle has given her a lean and athletic build, complementing her vibrant personality perfectly. She's always dreamed about living in a nice house on a big enough property to have farm animals.
Raleigh Manning
Is like a little bundle of energy that brings sunshine wherever she goes at eight years of age. With her adorable face framed by a riot of sun-kissed curls, she always has a contagious smile. Her mischievous green eyes reflect her adventurous spirit. Even though she's young, Raleigh stands tall, showing the resilience and determination that comes from growing up on a farm. Her sun-kissed skin often has traces of dirt, a sign of her playful escapades in the vast expanse she calls home. Raleigh is a true country girl, and she absolutely adores all the animals on her property. Whether it's the cheeky goats, the quacking ducks, or her beloved pony, every day is an exciting adventure in her own little animal kingdom. She treats every creature as a friend, and her laughter is the sweetest symphony to their ears.
Summary
Sheriff Aiden Manning has a dilemma. His eight-year-old daughter, Raleigh, is out of school for the summer and he needs to hire a nanny for her. While figuring out who has the availability to take the job, Stacey Brownlee offers to be the nanny. Aiden and Stacey strongly dislike each other due to Stacey receiving her first-ever speeding ticket and getting reprimanded by Aiden. It happened years ago but it’s always left a terrible taste in her mouth as well as it did his. He only offers the job to her because he doesn’t think he’ll have options of finding someone who can temporarily stay at his house this summer to watch his daughter.
Things start off tense with the two being at each other’s throats as Aiden’s grumpiness clashes with Stacey’s sassiness. As Aiden and Stacey start spending time together taking care of Raleigh, they find themselves drawn to each other. But their budding romance isn't without challenges. The past conflict resurfaces, threatening to tear them apart. Aiden's dedication to his job as the sheriff and Stacey's rebellious spirit clash, creating tension between them.
In the end, love conquers all as Aiden and Stacey overcome their obstacles and find a way to build a life together. The story explores themes of healing, second chances, and the beauty of finding love in unexpected places. With the adorable Raleigh bringing joy to their lives, Aiden and Stacey's journey leads them to a fulfilling and happy future.
Tropes
Small Town
Off-Limits
Single Dad
Grumpy
Age Gap
Dominant Alpha Male
Sheriff
Enemies to Lovers
Nanny