If You Hate Me: A Brother's Best Friend Hockey Romance (The Toronto Terror Series) by Helena Hunting

In this standalone hate-to-love romance, the protagonist finds herself in an unexpected living situation with her older brother, an unapologetic playboy, and his best friend, Tristan Stiles, a pro hockey player she's never gotten along with. Determined to avoid her brother's wild lifestyle, she struggles to coexist with Tristan, whose constant shirtlessness and arrogant attitude grate on her nerves.

Despite a lingering crush from her teenage years, she knows better than to trust Tristan's reputation. She's focused on finding a new job and a place of her own, using their shared living space as a temporary solution. However, the close quarters only intensify their clashes, fueling their mutual animosity.

As they butt heads and exchange barbs, the protagonist fights to maintain her resolve against Tristan's undeniable appeal. She's determined not to fall for his charms or let him distract her from her goals. Yet, with each heated exchange, she can't help but wonder if there's more to Tristan than meets the eye.

Caught between her growing attraction and her determination to protect herself, she walks a fine line, wary of letting down her guard. But as they spend more time together, she begins to question her assumptions about Tristan and confront the possibility that her feelings might run deeper than she's willing to admit.

With tensions rising and desires simmering beneath the surface, the protagonist must navigate the complexities of her budding relationship with Tristan while holding onto her independence and sense of self. As they dance around their undeniable chemistry, she grapples with the risk of opening her heart to someone who embodies everything she's sworn to avoid.