Hayley
Hayley is the teenage protagonist. She's a street-smart kid who faces real fear on a daily basis. Since her dad is unreliable, Hayley has shouldered much of the responsibility for both of them. Living in such extreme circumstances, she is challenged by the privilege of her classmates and resents them and their surface-level problems. She winds up in detention a lot and struggles to make friends. Her relationship with Finn is only possible because he chooses to look past her harsh exterior in order to understand her perspective, coming from such a challenging home life. More than anything Hayley loves her father and is committed to his health and safety. His depression weighs heavily on her as well, so that by the end of the novel she persuades him not to kill himself by promising to continue alongside him.
Hayley's Father
Hayley's dad is an Iraq War veteran. He is severely depressed from his PTSD and his multiple broken marriages. His latest ex, Trish, really abused him when they were together, causing him to take Hayley and leave. Although he is not a competent father, he loves Hayley and does all that he can for her, despite his mental and physical limitations. The weight of knowing he's put Hayley in compromising positions is enough to keep him perpetually perplexed. Eventually Hayley's dad attempts suicide, but he changes his mind for her sake and pursues health.
Finn
Finn becomes Hayley's best friend, confidant, and romantic flame. He earns her trust by proving that he values what she does -- her family and safety. Because her situation is unlike the other kids at school, she's difficult to get to know, but Finn sees that she's a person definitely worth loving and takes it upon himself to support and understand her as best as possible. His patience and openness forms a safety net for Hayley during her troubles. After high school Finn goes his own way, but he forever remains Hayley's friend.
Trish
Trish is Hayley's step-mom. Last time they were together, she did some heinous things for which Hayley hasn't forgiven her. Trish tracks down Hayley and her father because she's concerned for them. She lends a hand, but her structure and authority are not welcome to Hayley who continues to view her step-mom as a threat and an imposition. Trish stays, however, despite the challenge of her situation.
