Cross Court (Off Court)

The daughter of a former world number one, Nicola Vassilakis had two junior majors and a ticket to tennis stardom before she even turned eighteen. But since going pro, Nic has endured only injuries and losses. Seven years later, the spotlight’s moved on to younger talent, her love of the game has dried up, and she has nothing to show for it but an aching need for the adoration and belonging she once had.When her performance coach takes an unexpected leave, Nic’s left with two choices: go without and chance falling further behind, or trust Aleksandr Morozov, her rival’s brother, to take over. He’s confident, charming, and knows how much he gets under her skin. What’s more, Nic can’t afford to depend on someone who might still be playing for the other side.After yet another painful loss, Nic warily agrees to a trial run. Between drills, lifts, and Aleks’ push to prioritize rest, it becomes evident he understands the battles she’s been waging more than anyone, and with his steady patience (and, okay, the flash of his abs), her walls threaten to tumble.Aleks helps shoulder the weight of crushing expectations, but Nic will have to find her own balance or risk letting the love of the public she’s desperate for slip through her fingers for good.