B is a high school junior living in South Florida who uses surfing and writing as creative outlets. She struggles with a complicated home life after learning a dark truth about her conception, causing her to associate love with fear. Indecisive about her future, she tries to maintain emotional distance from others but feels an intense physical and emotional attraction to Jamie.

Jamie is a confident high school senior from a wealthy family who plans to become an accountant. He is decisive about his future and traditional in his life goals, standing in contrast to B's uncertainty. He exhibits a strong sense of loyalty but acts impulsively when he feels he is losing control over his carefully laid plans.

Jenna is B's childhood best friend, known for her striking looks and role as a cheerleader. She provides unconditional support during difficult family struggles and serves as a grounded voice of reason. Honest and fiercely protective, she frequently points out the harsh truths B tries to ignore.

B's mother and father are separated individuals with a deeply troubled shared history. For years, they presented themselves as friendly exes until a confession shatters B's understanding of their past. B's mother is fiercely loving but struggles with the weight of her trauma. B's father reacts with anger and defensiveness when confronted about his past actions.

Ethan is a college student involved in student government at Alder University. He genuinely cares for B but frequently compares himself to her close friend Jamie, seeking reassurance about their relationship.

River is the son of the CEO at Rye Publishing and acts as B's boss during her internship. He maintains a professional demeanor at work while encouraging her to take breaks from her intense focus on her career.

Angel is a woman who enters Jamie's life during a period of estrangement from B. She is protective of her relationship with Jamie and observant of his lingering connections to others.

Brad is an earnest man who enters B's life when she feels ready to move forward. He represents a stable future for B as she attempts to leave her past behind.

Rhonda is Jamie's mother. She and her husband provide a wealthy, comfortable upbringing for their son while attempting to instill a strong work ethic in him.

Wes is Jamie's father and an accountant. His business serves as the foundation for Jamie's carefully constructed plans for his own future career.

Sylvia is Jamie's sister, who stands by him during significant family events and social gatherings.

Charlie is an observant friend of Jamie's who notices the unresolved tension in Jamie's relationships and openly comments on the dynamics he sees.

Marie is B's college roommate in San Diego. She provides a sense of normalcy and friendship as B adjusts to life in California.

Kristen is a mutual friend of B and Jenna who joins them for social outings to celebrate major life milestones.

Wayne is a supportive presence in B's mother's life, representing a healthy new chapter for her after years of trauma.

Claire is an outgoing woman who strikes up a conversation with B at a bar and inadvertently reveals key information about Jamie's current social circle.