Ten years after the accidental death of his younger brother Chase, Hugh Penders, somewhat of a drifter, returns home to help his father, Richard, who's suffered a heart attack. Richard is no longer capable of managing his card/gift shop and needs help to run the store until it can be sold.

Hugh reminisces about the devastating event that caused Chase's death. Hugh loved Chase more than anyone else in the world and he feels guilty for fantasizing over Chase's girlfriend, Iris. Hugh's desire for Iris is still there when he sees her again. She lives only an hour away and works for a local theater. Chase becomes more and more involved in his father's store and also begins a close involvement with Iris. As the anniversary of Chase's death draws near, Iris and Hugh struggle with their feelings. When an offer is made for the store, which will enable Hugh to move on, he is faced with a new possibility concerning Chase's death. Now Hugh must examine his life and decide what it is he really wants.

Michael Baron is an exceptionally gifted writer who is clever in delving into the inner feelings of his characters. The struggle he has portrayed for Hugh is nearly insurmountable and shows how much this character grows during his trials and tribulations. It's heartwarming to see how this family eventually pulls together in understanding and love for each other to learn to live again after death has torn them apart.