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

“The other three places aren’t quite this bad,” Mr. Wilson told them. “But they aren’t exactly in good shape either. The one at the far end, number 1023, is probably where you’ll want to stay, if you decide to take me up on my offer.”


Rudy rubbed the toe of his shoe over one of the stains in the carpet. “I don’t think this will come up with just shampooing.”


“I’m sure it won’t. That means you’ll have to tear up the carpeting,” Mr. Wilson replied. “I haven’t decided it I want to replace it or put down Pergo instead.”


“It’s laminate flooring that looks like wood but isn’t, and it’s very durable.”


“I don’t think any of us knows how to lay new carpet,” Rudy said.


Mr. Wilson smiled. “I didn’t expect you would, but putting down Pergo is fairly easy.”


Snap grinned. “I guess that means you’re going for that.”


“I guess it does,” Mr. Wilson agreed with a smile. “If the four of you…”


Chapter 40