Everyone did. But I lived it. Including the moment when the team’s broody, tattooed winger Lake Axelrod swooped in on skates to rescue me from public humiliation. Even more surprising? When the famously grumpy (and ridiculously sexy) hockey star insists on being my fake boyfriend for my sister’s high-profile wedding. It’s the perfect sweet revenge plan since my ex is the best man. Bonus–I might even salvage my professional reputation. We need rules, though. 1. To pull this off, everyone from his teammates to my boss has to believe we’re a real couple. 2. That means swoony touches and knee-weakening kisses are required. 3. When it ends, we walk away. But the intensity in Lake’s eyes after every post-game kiss makes me wonder if he’s pretending. With each whispered secret, the line between fake and real bends. Until it shatters one night in a hotel room. Soon, he isn’t just playing the protective boyfriend—he’s the only one who truly sees me. If I’m not careful, I’m going to break the most important rule of all: don’t fall for your fake date. This is Lake and Remy's romance. Tropes include: grumpy/sunshine hockey romance, fake dating, workplace romance, best friend's brother, obsessed hero ©2026 Lauren Blakely Books (P)2026 Lauren Blakely Books