Rosie's life has always been quiet, mostly spent flying under the radar. That is, until Jake Russell, starts paying attention to her. It all began when she helped him with a math test, but now, even three months later, Jake is buying her blueberry muffins, standing up for her against bullies, and watching her with an intensity that makes her heart race. Rosie can't help but wonder, why?
Jake has never been the type to get involved with anyone. His past is full of shadows, and he's learned to keep his distance. But something about Rosie keeps pulling him in-her quiet strength, her wit, and the way she makes him feel like he's more than just the guy everyone fears. As their bond deepens, they both start facing things they've been running from, unsure of where this connection will lead.
Through unexpected moments and unspoken feelings, Rosie and Jake begin to realize that even in darkness, they can find a light-if only they can learn to trust it.
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]]