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

Terry nodded. “Kind of figured from the look of you.” He pressed the back of his hand to Kel’s forehead. “You’re definitely running a fever. Not much of one but…” He backed away when Kel sneezed. “That’s right, pass it on.”


“Sorry.” Kel sneezed again but this time he covered his mouth. “I think I caught a cold.”


“You think?” Rudy said, joining them. “I’d say that’s a given. You’re staying here today.”


“No. Way,” Kel said adamantly. He smiled a bit. “If I look as bad as I feel I’ll have the pity factor going big time and we’ll rake in the dough.”


“It’s true. Besides as warm as it’s been out there, the heat will probably do me good.”


Josie came over, a cup in her hand. “Drink this.”


“Ginger tea. My mom used to make it for me. It won’t cure you but it will make you feel better. That’s why I always keep some ginger with me. “


“It does help,” Snap agreed. “She’s dosed me with it a time or three.”


Chapter 23