About

Nineteen-year-old Jade Cross never expected to fall for someone thirteen years older than her. But in sunny California, she met thirty-two-year-old Adrian Vale—a man who was calm, confident, and always seemed to know exactly what to say. Before long, they were boyfriend and girlfriend. After several months together, Adrian convinced Jade they needed a fresh start, and they moved to Seattle, Washington, where he said they could build a quieter life away from everyone else's opinions.At first, Adrian made Jade feel seen in a way no one else had. But the longer they dated, the colder he became. Whenever she questioned him, he'd brush it off with, "You're too young to understand," leaving her apologizing for problems she hadn't caused. He never needed to yell; his disappointment and silence were enough to make her doubt herself.At first, Adrian made Jade feel understood in a way no one else had. But as time passed, his warmth faded. Whenever Jade questioned him, he'd dismiss her with, "You're too young to understand," until she apologized for problems she hadn't caused. He never had to raise his voice; a cold look, a disappointed sigh, or hours of silence were enough to make her second-guess herself.To outsiders, they looked like an ordinary couple. Behind closed doors, Jade was slowly losing herself trying to earn the approval of someone who always kept it just out of reach. Adrian hadn't stolen her future—but he had stolen a piece of her youth. Sometimes the biggest red flags don't scream. Sometimes they're simply... older and colder.