Wes is a twenty-year-old student who returns to UCLA to restart his freshman year and rejoin the Bruins baseball team. Two years prior, he left school to care for his family following the sudden death of his father. He is determined to reclaim his academic and athletic career while holding out hope for a second chance with his ex-girlfriend. He is a driven athlete who frequently attempts to compartmentalize his grief to focus on his goals.

Liz is a twenty-year-old university student studying the music industry and videography. She recently secured an exciting internship with HEFT Entertainment and focuses entirely on her professional goals. Having reinvented herself as a realist after a difficult breakup, she feels thrown off balance when her ex-boyfriend unexpectedly enrolls at her school.

Stuart is Wes and Sarah's late father who died of a heart attack two years before the events of the novel. He was deeply invested in his son's athletic performance. His headstrong and demanding coaching style often caused friction between them.

Lilith is an acclaimed documentarian and producer working for HEFT Entertainment. She specializes in sports documentaries and serves as a major professional inspiration to her interns. She is gracious and understanding while maintaining high expectations for her team.

Clark is a college student who works with the campus video production team. He is highly protective of his friends and readily agrees to act as a buffer when stressful situations arise. He values honesty and integrity in his personal connections.

Sarah is a younger sibling who lives in Omaha with her mother. She maintains constant contact with her brother through phone calls and video chats. She acts as a voice of reason, frequently encouraging honesty and emotional vulnerability.

Helena is a stepmother living in Nebraska. She serves as a caring and intuitive presence for her family, creating a safe environment for open communication about complex feelings.

AJ is a college student at UCLA. He is sociable and welcoming, helping his roommate adjust to a new academic year.

Coach Ross is the head coach of the Bruins baseball team. He requires accountability from his players while offering second chances to those who show dedication.

Campbell is a university student sharing an apartment near the UCLA campus. She enjoys an active social life and frequently shares clothes with her friends.

Leonardo is a college student living in an off-campus apartment. He is inquisitive about his friends' dating lives.

Mickey is a hometown friend who stays loyal despite distance. He enjoys scheming and eagerly assists with grand romantic gestures.

Michael is a proactive friend living in Omaha. He recognizes when people are struggling and forces them into positive environments to help them cope.

Joss is a long-time friend who stayed in her hometown. She is direct and sometimes inadvertently brings up uncomfortable memories during group settings.