Tess is a 33-year-old corporate attorney from Cincinnati who specializes in non-profit management. She is separated from her emotionally and physically abusive husband, Troy, and desperately seeks a fresh start. Fleeing to Jacksonville, Florida, she attempts to rebuild her life and confidence while assisting with a local marine conservation non-profit. She remains cautious, guarded, and protective of her independence.

Ryan is a 22-year-old forward for the Jacksonville Rays NHL hockey team. Having become the primary breadwinner for his family at a young age following his father's death, he carries significant financial and personal responsibilities. He is immediately drawn to Tess and remains steadfast in his attraction despite her hesitations and their age gap.

Rachel is the team doctor for the Jacksonville Rays. She recently established a polyamorous marriage with three members of the hockey organization. She offers Tess her unconditional support and a place to live when Tess flees Cincinnati.

Troy is an attorney at his family's law firm in Cincinnati and Tess's estranged husband. He refuses to accept their separation, using his professional leverage, financial resources, and physical intimidation to force her compliance. He leverages a strict morality clause at work to corner Tess.

Bea is a founding partner at Powell, Fawcett, and Hughes (PFH) in Cincinnati. She stepped in as a maternal figure to Tess during her college years. She values her family's social standing and the firm's reputation above all else, aggressively pushing Tess to reconcile with Troy.

Ilmari is a hockey player for the Jacksonville Rays and one of Rachel's husbands. He recently made a hasty half-million-dollar donation to a disorganized sea turtle rescue and asks Tess to help rebuild the non-profit. He is wealthy, quiet, and uncomfortable being the center of attention.

Jake is a high-energy player for the Jacksonville Rays and one of Rachel's husbands. He is welcoming and instantly treats Tess like an extension of his own family, going out of his way to make her comfortable in Florida.

Caleb is the equipment manager for the Jacksonville Rays. As one of Rachel's husbands, he brings a grounded, observant energy to their household and offers direct advice to Tess regarding her hesitations about romance.

Shelby is the wife of the Rays' team captain and a licensed therapist. Initially clashing with Tess due to a physical resemblance to Troy's mistress, Shelby quickly becomes a supportive ally who helps Tess process her divorce.

Poppy is the director of public relations for the Jacksonville Rays. She manages the players' media appearances and commercial obligations, occasionally interacting with the team's complex internal social dynamics.

Lukas is a player for the Jacksonville Rays who socializes with Ryan off the ice.

Colton is a player for the Rays who regularly checks in on his teammates and attends team social events.

Mike is Ryan's sports agent. He handles the financial and commercial aspects of Ryan's growing hockey career.

Mark is the general manager of the Jacksonville Rays. He recognizes Ryan's talent and encourages the young player to advocate for his true value during contract negotiations.

Cassie is Ryan's sister. She frequently contacts him for financial assistance, adding to the pressure he feels to succeed in his athletic career.

Charlie is Tess's lawyer in Cincinnati. He handles the legal logistics of her messy separation and attempts to shield her from Troy's aggressive tactics.

Dale is the head of Human Resources at Powell, Fawcett, and Hughes. He enforces the firm's strict morality clause at the behest of the founding partners.

Joey is a member of the Northshore Turtle Crew, which later becomes the non-profit Out of the Net. He is passionate about marine conservation but lacks organizational direction.

Cheryl is a local conservationist working with the sea turtle non-profit. She helps coordinate volunteers and office logistics.

Nancy is a member of the turtle rescue crew. She works events and helps manage the operational side of the newly structured non-profit.

Poseidon is the Prices' dog. He provides Tess with quiet companionship during her early, lonely days at the house in Jacksonville.

Sully is a hockey player for the Jacksonville Rays who checks on his teammates when they are injured.