Caught Stealing by Ce Ricci (Paperback)

Holden Sykes has a reputation he’s built carefully. Known across campus for his no-strings approach, he keeps things simple, avoiding anything that might tie him down. It’s a system that works—until his attention lands a little too close to home.

When he sets his sights on someone he shouldn’t, it sparks a reaction that’s hard to ignore. What starts as an attempt to protect a friend quickly turns into something more personal, driven by emotions that are harder to define. The line between loyalty and something deeper begins to blur, creating tension that neither side is prepared to handle.

What follows is a back-and-forth neither of them can seem to step away from. Small acts of defiance turn into an ongoing game, each trying to gain the upper hand. Beneath the surface, though, something shifts. The rivalry becomes charged with meaning, pulling them closer despite their efforts to keep distance.

As the stakes rise, so does the pressure to confront what’s really going on. The connection forming between them challenges long-held boundaries, forcing a choice that won’t come without consequences.

Set within a college sports environment, this story explores how competition, loyalty, and unexpected attraction can collide, leaving both characters questioning what they’re willing to risk.