Playing Fake

Evie thought freshman year would mean classes, friends, and a clean break from her ex. Instead, his presence on campus starts to feel threatening. Jesse, the laid‑back guy who sits behind her in class, offers an unexpected solution: pretend to be a couple so her ex will finally back off. A simple plan. Until fake handholding, shared walks, and inside jokes begin to feel dangerously real. Set on a modern college campus during the school year, Playing Fake keeps the focus on emotional connection and slow‑building trust. The romance stays clean, with no explicit scenes. Readers who like protective heroes, mutual support, and the friends‑to‑more vibe will find plenty to enjoy. The tension comes from feelings and boundaries, not graphic content, which makes it a safe pick for fans of wholesome, contemporary romance.