One near-death experience, one tough as nails FBI agent, and one grumpy boss who's determined to break all the rules to protect her. Falling for your boss might be the ultimate cliché, but FBI agent Michelle Lewis, resisting Gary Fencik is starting to feel impossible. After a dangerous kidnapping nearly ended in disaster, Gary has her riding a desk. When she demands to be sent back out into the field he agrees on one condition: she only works with him. As they team up to thwart a New Year's Eve terrorist attack, the line between professional and personal starts to blur. When Gary gets injured on the job, Michelle's role shifts from partner to caretaker — and the tension between them reaches a boiling point. A concussion watch leads to a shared bed, stolen kisses, and the realization that maybe, just maybe, love is worth the risk. But when Michelle's fears about their careers collide with Gary's determination to fight for her, it's not just the case on the line—it's their hearts. And if she thinks Gary is going to give up that easily, she's got another thing coming. Will they save the day and get their happily-ever-after, or will Michelle's cold feet leave them both out in the cold? Dropping the Ball is a standalone story in the Loving the Holidays series. If you like midlife romantic comedies with a little adventure, steamy boss/employee dynamics, strong women, and alpha males with a soft gooey center, you'll love this story.