The main character is a young man, Derik, with a traumatic childhood and a gigantic chip on his shoulders. Left to his own devices anger and violence have become his way of life. His ex-girlfriend, Nadine, also had trauma in her childhood but a mother’s love, counseling and a strong support system have helped her to become a well-rounded person. Ruby, a main character, a victim of violence, is a male-to-female transgender person that is also strong of character. The eventual unconditional love and support of her family guided her in the right direction. An accident changes the course of Derik's life. While he's hospitalized he gets visits from his probation officer and his play cousin, Keebo. The plight of his two best friends is also revealed to him.
With so much to think about he settles on a direction to pursue in life.
After his release from the hospital he embarks on his new life's journey. With new associations and a determination to complete his classes' people realize this change in him is genuine.
