Grace Notes by Jerry Cole

Gil DuPont likes life exactly the way it is. It might not be full of friends, love, and laughter, but he gave up on believing life would ever hold much of that for him anyway. A confirmed loner, and bachelor by default, his routine is important and rarely interrupted.
All that changes when he receives an unexpected visit from Child Protection Services one freezing Minnesota night. Originally believing they’re there to deliver bad news, he prepares himself for details of his estranged sister’s death. However, once he finds out that they have a different problem for him, he realizes his life is about to take an unexpected turn.

His sister, Marguerite, six years older than him and somewhat of a phantom throughout his life, has been taken into the hospital due to her problems with alcohol. Her illness has left in its wake someone Gil discovers is suddenly completely reliant on him: a little girl of eight. Gil had no idea he was even an uncle, but soon understands that he’s required to step up and take responsibility for Roxy.

As they settle down into a brand new routine, one where Gil is a care provider and new parent, he discovers that the joys of life can be found in the smallest things, not least of all his niece’s warm heart and childish innocence. What Gil certainly doesn’t expect, however, is for the dark and handsome Micah to come as an extra into the arrangement. A social worker who has made it his life’s work to ensure children are given the best possible chance despite somewhat difficult beginnings, he takes an interest in Gil and Roxy’s situation, and even Gil himself.
Loving Roxy comes easily to Gil, but allowing himself to be loved by Micah? That may be pushing things a little too far. But he’s about to learn that it’s not just his niece who’s been offered a second chance at happiness.