Walker University Stallions

I was nine years old when I claimed Charlie King as mine. We were in love—high school sweethearts—until one devastating day when it all fell apart. Two years later, she's back in my life and needs a place to live. Sure, she's infuriating, and her kissable, smart mouth keeps me on my toes, but her being in my space falls into my plan to get her back. Charlie doesn't want anything to do with me, but I'll be damned if I let her walk out of my life again. Even if it means the dark secrets of my past will come rushing back to haunt us both.

My last year at Walker University was supposed to be about football, family, and hanging out with my boys. I had it all under control—until her. Emma, the stunning blonde, who intercepts my heart and changes the game. Mysterious, enchanting, unforgettable. One night with her wasn't nearly enough.

She's always been my strong side. The one I protect, the one I lean on, the one I can't stop playing for. Because I've never wanted anything more than to earn her as mine—for real. Noelle James is my best friend, has been for years. And we've never crossed that line, even though I've thought about it more times than I should. But when her ex becomes a problem she can't shake, I step in as her fake boyfriend. No big deal, right? Only it is a big deal. Because being hers, even just pretending, feels way too real and like everything I've ever wanted. Then she drops a bomb.

The silent count is all about trust. No snap count, no signal—just instinct, timing, and the kind of connection that can't be taught. I was locked into this season—focused on the NFL draft with tunnel vision on my future. But then my psych class hit me harder than any linebacker, and...