Barely Worth It

tw's: loss of loved one, abandonment, parental neglect, descriptions of abuse and panic attacks, dyslexia rep, anxiety rep, PTSD rep, endometriosis rep

"The truth is, we can't really live until we've died a little, Leo."

Leo Hunter's world was turned upside down when he witnessed his mom's fatal hiking accident at a young age, leaving him with a paralyzing fear of heights. As captain and star center of Atlantic Crest University's hockey team, he struggles to manage his trauma alongside dyslexia, sports medicine studies, and a demanding job that leads him to move in with his teammate and his teammate's twin. Little does he know that his new roommate is also the girl he barely avoided crashing into on his way to hockey practice...

"Women like you drown oceans, Kailani. Don't let your past take away from your future."

Kailani Rhodes's life has been anything but easy. Abandoned by her mother at a young age and scarred by an abusive ex-boyfriend, Kailani battles daily with anxiety and PTSD. As captain of the volleyball team and a passionate marine biology student, she hides from her trauma in the ocean and her game. But she never thought her newest enemy would also turn out to be her newest roommate. Leo's sudden presence disrupts her carefully balanced world, reopening old wounds and stirring an unexpected attraction.

As the two spend more time together, the tension between Leo and Kailani begins to thaw. They start to share their vulnerabilities, supporting each in ways they never expected. But despite their growing bond, they must confront their past traumas and fears.

Can they find the strength to move forward together, or will their pasts keep them apart? In this game of love and pain, Leo and Kailani must decide if they're willing to fight for a future together.