illusions

When Brielle's ex-boyfriend, Casey, breaks her heart by leaving her for her best friend, she vows never to let herself be vulnerable again. But when she crosses paths with Max, Casey's biggest rival on the hockey team, a twisted opportunity for revenge presents itself.

Max is everything Casey isn't-arrogant, infuriating, and dangerously attractive. He proposes an unexpected deal: they pretend to date, making Casey jealous and help Max win over his coach after Casey sabotages his first impression. With nowhere else to turn and a desire to regain her sense of control, Brielle reluctantly agrees.

As Brielle and Max navigate their fake relationship, they find themselves constantly thrown together-at practices, parties, and even road trips. The forced proximity brings out their competitive streaks, leading to heated arguments and unexpected moments of tenderness.

Brielle is determined to keep her guard up, but Max's relentless charm and surprising depth begin to break through her walls. What started out as an illusion starts to become all too real, and Brielle must decide whether she can risk opening her heart again, even to someone she once considered her enemy.

tropes:
enemies to lovers
fake dating
forced proximity
she falls first he falls HARDERR
sports romance