Checking Heart

Luka Novak has it all—on the surface. As one of Riverside University's top hockey defensemen, he’s known for his flawless slapshots and game-winning plays. But beneath the surface, Luka is failing two classes and on the verge of losing his scholarship. When his coach forces him to get a tutor, Luka expects an easy way out—someone who’ll do the work for him. Instead, he gets Ashwin Desai: brilliant, sharp-tongued, and determined not to make things easy. Their first tutoring session is a disaster. Luka calls Ashwin a bad teacher; Ashwin calls Luka lazy. They should hate each other, but there's an undeniable pull between them. As late-night study sessions turn into stolen glances and accidental touches, something begins to change. Luka starts showing up early, not for chemistry, but because he can’t stop thinking about Ashwin. There’s just one problem: Luka has always dated girls and never questioned it. But Ashwin, with his clever mind and deep understanding of Luka’s confusion, makes him reconsider everything he’s ever known about himself. Ashwin has a reputation for playing games with straight boys—getting them to fall for him and then walking away. It's easier that way. No one gets hurt if you never let anyone in. But Luka is different. He’s stubborn, honest, and willing to fight for what he wants. When he looks at Ashwin, there’s no doubt—he’s fascinated by him.