Benjie
Benjie is 13 years old who lives in a poverty-stricken neighborhood that is on an economic decline. Together with his mother, grandmother, and her mother's boyfriend, they live in a humble home. Benjie is a jovial teenager who gets good grades in school and spends most of his time with his friends. As an African-American, he struggles with racism, and also abandonment issues from his biological father. Benjie is soon introduced into drugs and becomes heavily dependent on heroin. His life leads down a treacherous path that will haunt him forever.
Butler
Butler is a former musical artist who now works in maintenance. He is Sweets' boyfriend and lives together with Benjie's family. Butler attempts to bond with Benjie on a fatherly level but to no avail. After Benjie starts using heroin, Butler violently confronts him about his behavior. He eventually moves out but later moves back in after saving Benjie from a near-death experience. They eventually become closer and Benjie finally accepts Butler as his father.
Sweets
Sweets is Benjie's mother. She is in love with Butler and urges him to connect with Benjie.
Tiger
Tiger is a drug dealer who introduces Benjie to heroin. Initially, Benjie looks up to Tiger because of his demeanor and extravagant lifestyle. To fund his drug use, Benjie is hired by Tiger to deliver drugs for him.
