When Terry and Kel Coleman run from their abusive father, they end up in Denver. The day they arrive, they meet three street kids named Rudy, Snap, and Josie. The brothers move into the trio's squat where Rudy and the others teach Terry and Kel the ins-and-outs of survival on the streets. While that happens, Terry and Rudy are drawn to each other and begin a tentative relationship.<br><br>Then Kel is almost kidnapped by a man sent by his father to bring him home. Forced to leave their squat to keep Kel safe, they turn to a local pastor for help. Thanks to the pastor, the five young people may find hope for their future -- if they can survive the present. In the process, can the budding relationship between Terry and Rudy survive, or will it be torn apart by the life they're forced to live?

Surviving

“What are you thinking? And before you say ‘nothing’, I can see it on your face. So tell me.”


“I suppose that could happen,” Rudy said when he’d finished. “Probably fifty-fifty that it will. Not the best odds but I think it’s worth finding out.” Rudy grinned suddenly. “If we do split up, I get the kids.”


Laughing, Terry shook his head. “Nope, they get to choose who they want to go with.” He sobered, gazing at Rudy. “I am willing to try.”


“Me too.” Rudy leaned forward at the same time Terry did, they’re lips melding in a long, slow kiss that was fraught more with anticipation of what might be in their future than any immediate physical need for each other. 


“We probably should get some sleep,” Rudy said when they broke apart. “You know how kids are. Always up at the break of dawn wanting their breakfasts.”


Terry grinned. “At which point we tell them to fend for themselves. They’re old enough.”


Chapter 19