Ruby Linfield believes in fresh starts. In wish lists, hopeful plans, and the kind of bright optimism that makes some people roll their eyes. So when she arrives at a snowy mountain lodge for a New Year's reflection retreat, she's ready to embrace every journaling prompt and goal-setting exercise the week throws her way.

Elias Hart doesn't do resolutions. Dragged to Cedar Ridge Lodge by his well-meaning sister, he's counting the hours until he can return to his carefully controlled life—one where wanting less keeps disappointment at bay.

Then a blizzard rolls in… and the retreat leader pairs them as reflection partners.

Ruby's warmth shakes loose all the walls Elias has built to protect himself. Elias's quiet steadiness grounds Ruby's wildest hopes. Over mugs of cocoa by the fire, vulnerable midnight talks, and the kind of small kindnesses that matter more than either of them admits, they begin to realize the barriers they've built aren't keeping them safe—they're keeping them lonely.

But when fear and misunderstanding threaten to unravel their fragile connection, both must slip back into old patterns… or risk the sweetest resolution of all—choosing each other.

As the countdown to midnight approaches, two guarded hearts stand on the edge of something neither expected—but both might finally be ready to claim.

A clean, closed-door romance about fresh starts, quiet bravery, and the soft, steady love that comes from being truly seen.

Tropes & Vibes 💕✨

❄️ Snowed-in / forced proximity✏️ Opposites attract🫶 Sunshine x Stoic🔥 One room, one fireplace🤝 Reflection partners / paired by circumstance🐢 Slow-burn tenderness🫖 Cozy, wholesome intimacy🎆 New Year's fresh start💌 Emotional healing🚪 Closed-door romance