The moment Cameron started at her new school, she was instantly captivated by Ian. He seemed so flawless, so effortless in everything he did. Yet, Cameron began to notice that although he was popular, always surrounded by people, when no one was looking, he looked completely alone. Even though they never saw eye to eye, she was undoubtedly determined to get to know him, to help him find happiness. And just maybe, in return, he can help her find closure.
***
I look up into his captivating emerald eyes, and I've never felt more seen in my entire life.
He pulls me closer, one hand on my waist, the other holding one side of my face. He presses a soft, lingering kiss to my forehead.
"It's gonna be okay. I promise." He murmurs against my skin.
My eyes well with tears, as he engulfs me in a hug. My tears spill over as I clutch his jacket, not able to hold it in any longer. He rubs my back soothingly as I cry out broken sobs.
"Why? Why did she have to leave me?" I whisper.
He holds me even tighter, resting his chin on my head.
"I don't know. But it wouldn't have been her choice. And I know she's proud of you." He says quietly.
As Claire aims to leave her oppressive stepfamily behind, she befriends Zion. Will he be her ticket to freedom or a distraction in achieving her dreams?
*****
Claire Olsen has had a crush on Zion Petrakis since the first time she laid eyes on him, but he never noticed, instead only having eyes on the school's it girl, Maddie Jennings. Knowing she couldn't compete with Maddie, Claire hid her feelings for Zion, satisfied with admiring him from afar. However, when a series of events led Claire closer to Zion, her feelings for him grew from infatuation to love. And despite fighting hard to keep her feelings contained by distancing herself from Zion, he was determined to show her that he's earned a spot in her life.
[[word count: 100,000-150,000 words]]