The Man Beneath the Dust (Hard Labor Hearts #1)

He was supposed to expose the truth. He never expected to fall for the man buried beneath it.

Viktor Novak has spent years running from his past.

A tattooed migrant construction worker with scars deeper than anyone can see, he keeps his head down, works hard, and trusts no one. The last thing he needs is a distraction—especially one as dangerous as the boss’s son.

Elias Hart arrives at the remote construction camp to complete an architecture field project for his university. Soft-hearted, idealistic, and desperate to prove he’s more than the privileged heir to Hart Industries, he’s shocked by the conditions workers are forced to endure.

He never expects to become obsessed with the quiet, intimidating worker who seems determined to hate him.

As attraction ignites between them, Elias uncovers evidence of corruption buried deep within his father’s company. The more he investigates, the more he realizes the truth is connected to a tragedy that destroyed Viktor’s life years ago.

Loving each other could cost them everything.

When a catastrophic building collapse, corporate cover-ups, and family betrayal threaten to tear them apart, Viktor and Elias must decide whether they’re willing to risk their futures for the truth—and for each other.

In a world built on power, greed, and secrets, can two men from opposite sides of the divide build something real?