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

“We have an appointment with Mr. Abernathy,” Terry replied.


She checked her appointment book, nodded, and stood. “I’ll let him know you’re here.”


After she went through a door at the side of the room, Snap said a bit maliciously, “I bet she’s warning him there’s some strange kids here and he should hide the silverware, or whatever lawyers keep in their offices.”


“Oh shush, Snap.” Josie patted his arm. “I’m sure she wasn’t expecting college preppies.”


The woman came back just in time to hear Josie’s comment and smiled. “No. I knew exactly what to expect. He says to go right in.” She waited, holding the door until they had.


Mr. Abernathy stood, holding out his hand. “Tom, I certainly didn’t anticipate seeing you.”


As they shook, Tom told him, “They came to me for sanctuary, to put it bluntly. I thought it would be safer to drive them over than let them take a bus.”


Chapter 30