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

“Right here and…” Terry looked at Rudy. “Ask him what he thinks.”


“About what?” Tom inquired as he joined them.


Rudy hesitated, then blurted out, “My getting my GED.”


“That would be great. I can even steer you to a couple of places where you can do it for free.”


“See, I told you,” Terry crowed, looking at Rudy. “Now, tell him the rest.”


“This is Ter’s idea and I think he’s crazy, but…he thinks I have what it takes to start a shelter for street kids.”


Tom tapped his lip pensively. “It would take a lot of work, and support, but you definitely have a flair for watching out for the kids you’ve already taken under you wing.”


“Four, if you count Kel and me,” Terry put in.


“I…guess. Still that’s hardly the basis for getting someone to back me to do this.”


Chapter 32