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About this book
Two young people who've only ever known each other and the darkness of exploitation suddenly find themselves thrust into the glittering chaos of New York City—free, but utterly lost. Karys and Zakai's bond was forged in unimaginable circumstances, a passionate connection that kept them alive when nothing else could, but this bright new world threatens to pull them apart in ways their old life never could. As they navigate the disorienting reality of school, strangers claiming to care for them, and the terrifying freedom to choose their own path, Karys must learn who to trust while fighting to hold onto the one person who's always been her anchor. This is a story about survival, redemption, and discovering that sometimes the greatest act of courage isn't escaping your past—it's learning how to build a future together.
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“Create a playlist called Once We Were Starlight. Sensual, dark, and defiant—raw indie and R&B vocals over moody electronic beats. Intimate yet haunting; passion wrapped in shadow. Artists like FKA twigs, The Weeknd, Sade, and Cigarettes After Sex. Yearning intensity meets dangerous devotion.”
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