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

“Four years, and before you get pissed or worried or whatever, it was with the dude I told you about in Golden. The one I stayed with when I first got out here. I never sold myself. I told you that.” He frowned. “At least I think I did.”


“Not in so many words, but somehow I knew that. Not that it matters. Well it does but—” he cupped Rudy’s face with his hands,”—you do what you have to, to survive. So if you’d told me you did that I wouldn’t be happy but…”


Terry smiled. “I don’t think that’s possible. Not anymore. You could tell me to get out of your life, and if I thought you meant it I would. But I’m not leaving otherwise.”


“I’d never tell you that,” Rudy replied before kissing him tenderly. The kiss deepened, soon reminding them there were other things that mattered at the moment. Physical needs that had to be met.


“Yes,” Terry said when they broke apart.


“Yes?” Rudy replied, looking confused.


Chapter 51