Liana Meko

“They made a bet on you — because you act way too careless,” my former classmate sneers, curling his lip in that trademark condescending smirk. God, he’s such an infuriating bastard. Always mocking. Always judging. Always pushing. And then— He flirts. He softens. He cares. He charms me. He plays this twisted, ruleless game where nothing is safe and everything is a lie. But what he doesn’t know yet... I’m not such a bad player myself.

Looking at Polina now, you’d never guess she once had the reputation of a spoiled, arrogant queen bee. And Ignat? You’d never recognize the reckless daredevil he used to be. If they had met a year ago, they wouldn’t have even spared each other a glance. But they’re not the same people anymore. Life has changed them — harshly, painfully, irreversibly. Now, neither expects anything good from the world. But one day, fate brings them together...

Kira’s life is full of plans, goals, and ambitious dreams. She’s strong now. Confident. But it wasn’t always this way. Not long ago, she was a frightened, broken girl — all because of a boy she no longer even thinks about. Or so she tells herself. But what happens when he suddenly comes back into her life? Will she crumble again? Will she fall back into the role of a weak, helpless victim? Or will she finally fight back? And—perhaps the hardest question of all—will she have the strength to resist her own feelings?

They couldn’t be more different. He lives without limits. She can barely make ends meet. He has a brilliant future ahead. She has a sick father and no way out. They have nothing in common. So why does he keep seeking her out? Why does he look at her like that — as if she’s the only thing that matters? She doesn’t know. But she knows one thing for sure: it’s not real. He’s hiding something. He’s playing a game. “Don’t push me away, Aurika,” he whispers, his lips brushing hers, his eyes searching her soul. Begging her to trust. To open up. To fall. “I can’t,” she breathes. “I don’t believe you. This is just a game…” “A game?” He smiles. “Then play with me.”