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

“Guys, Josie, do you mind coming with me?” Tom said as soon as Terry let him in. “I have someone I’d like you to meet,” Tom told them.


“Is this going to be good or bad?” Terry whispered to Rudy as they followed Tom upstairs to his office.


“Can’t tell from looking at him. He’s not smiling, but he’s not frowning either.” Rudy chuckled. “I bet he’d be a good poker player.”


Tom obviously overheard that because he chuckled. “I’m lousy at poker. Even Kathy can beat me.”


When they entered Tom’s office, a tall, dark-haired man got up from the sofa. He considered the teens as if trying to determine something about them from how they looked. Given that they all were dressed to spend the day spanging on the mall, Terry wasn’t certain the man would be impressed. If he’s supposed to be, that is.


“Guys, this is Ben Wilson.” After introducing the teens to Wilson, Tom said, “Ben has a proposition for you.”


Chapter 39