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

“He undoubtedly will, but with Terry and Kelly’s testimony about their home life, which will be verified during the investigation period, I don’t think we’ll have much of a problem overriding him.”


“He’ll deny everything,” Terry said angrily.


Rudy shook his head. “Let him. All someone has to do is look at the scars on your back. That’ll be proof enough. Right?” He looked at Mr. Abernathy for confirmation.


Mr. Abernathy nodded. “It will go a long way to proving their father’s an unfit parent.” He returned his attention to Kel. “All right, I need your parent’s full names and address.” When Kel told him, Mr. Abernathy smiled slightly. “At least you won’t have to worry about them wanting to drop in for a visit whenever they feel like it.”


“Can they? Visit I mean?” Kel asked in dismay.


“That would be up to your guardian. If they decide it’s not in your best interests, they can say no and under the circumstances the court will undoubtedly back them up if your parents try to fight it.”


Chapter 31