Before the Thaw

Jade Bell thought she had closed the door on her past — and the love she once held for Duncan Armstrong, the man who disappeared after university, leaving behind silence and unanswered questions. But when Jade’s boyfriend Dean unexpectedly abandons their weekend getaway—the last hope to save their fragile relationship—Duncan sees his chance. Knowing Jade is alone, he’s determined to reclaim the woman he’s never stopped loving.

Trapped together in a remote cabin beneath a merciless winter storm, the years of distance and secrets between them begin to thaw. Old wounds bleed into new desire, and Duncan is willing to risk everything for a second chance — even if the truth he carries could either bind them or break Jade’s heart once more.

Amid the cold, the crackling fire, and the fragile warmth between them, Jade must decide if she can trust love again — before the thaw steals their chance at forever.

But as Duncan and Jade fight to reclaim what was lost, a violent hostage crisis at the hospital threatens to tear them apart. In the face of danger, Jade’s courage will be tested — and the future of their love hangs in the balance.