Cross-Checked (Boston Rebels)

Some people might call it a grudge, but in reality, hating Alessandra Jones is more like an obsession.

AJ is the league's first female general manager, and my boss. As the team captain, I have to play nice with her-in public, at least.

But in private, the gloves come off. And then one time, our clothes do too.

We vow it won't happen again.

Not only can we not stand each other, but we're in tense negotiations over my contract right now, and AJ is up for the league's GM of the Year award. Getting involved wouldn't just be a PR nightmare-it would be unethical.

It doesn't help that we have a history, or that she and my daughter adore each other. When AJ is injured protecting my baby, there's no choice but to move her into my place.

Taking care of someone I hate shouldn't feel so right. Getting to know her better shouldn't break down my defenses. She's hurt me once before, and I'd be a fool to trust her again.

But the more time we spend together, the more I realize that maybe I'm not obsessed with hating her . . . maybe I'm just obsessed with her.