I've lived in the spotlight my entire life—long enough to know how fake people can be. Fame chews you up and spits you out, and loyalty is just another illusion.

But Abbi? She's different.

Wounded, guarded, and trying like hell to hold herself together after a night that changed everything.

She doesn't need a relationship—she needs protection. A fake boyfriend to calm the tabloids and shield her from the cruelty of the press. I can play that part.

At least, that's how it starts.

But the chemistry between us is anything but pretend. The longer I'm around her, the harder it is to keep my distance. I want to know her secrets. I want to take away her pain. And I want to be the one she lets in when the cameras are gone.

Because what's building between us? It's not a game.

It's a risk. It's raw. It's real.

***Content note: this story deals with difficult subject matter. Trigger warning available inside.***