Rory's decision to befriend the new fifteen-year-old neighbor boy, and their secret relationship is the catalyst for all kinds of changes—causing her to fight for what she wants. The boy presence brings to light rumors swirling in the town about Rory's beloved father. As she peels back the layers—separating fact from fiction—her father's tortured past come to light. These revelations show her how complicated doing the right thing can get. When her secret relationship with the boy is revealed, she is forced to face the rumor-mill herself. The snide comments don't hurt near as much when she's dipped into her first kiss.