Sloan is an artist living in Los Angeles who is struggling with prolonged grief two years after the sudden death of her fiancé, Brandon. Feeling emotionally isolated, she has stopped painting for pleasure and rarely leaves her house. When a lost sporting dog jumps into her car, she finds an unexpected source of companionship that slowly draws her back into the world and connects her with the dog's owner.

Jason is a rising musician from Minnesota who is currently traveling internationally to work on a film soundtrack. Operating under the stage name Jaxon Waters, he maintains a grounded personality despite his growing fame. He values his close ties to his family and his beloved dog, Tucker, and quickly develops a strong emotional connection with Sloan over phone calls and text messages.

Kristen is Sloan's humorous and fiercely loyal best friend since middle school. She is a dedicated wife and mother who actively supports Sloan through her grief without forcing her to move on before she is ready. She consistently encourages Sloan to take risks, pursue happiness, and return to creating art.

Lola/Nikki is a famous pop star who struggles with the intense pressures of the music industry. Following a brief one-night stand with Jason, she persistently pursues him, creating friction in his life. She embodies the unpredictable and chaotic side of celebrity existence.

Brandon is Sloan's former fiancé who died in a motorcycle accident two years before the story begins. An avid duck hunter with a generous personality, his absence leaves a lasting void in the lives of Sloan, Josh, and Kristen.

Josh is Kristen's husband and was Brandon's best friend. He actively supports Sloan by helping her with home repairs and practical tasks, stepping in to ensure she is cared for while she grieves.

Tucker is a sporting dog bred for duck hunting who accidentally crosses paths with Sloan. He serves as an energetic, loyal companion who bridges the gap between Sloan's isolated life and Jason's busy world.

Ernie is Jason's seasoned music manager who handles the business side of his rising career. He is highly skeptical of relationships in the entertainment industry and frequently advises Jason to prioritize his tour and fame over personal attachments.

Zane is Jason's personal assistant who manages the daily logistics of his demanding tour schedule. He handles practical tasks ranging from fetching coffee to walking Tucker, ensuring Jason can focus on performing.

Patricia is Jason's mother, living in the rural, wooded town of Ely, Minnesota. She is a warm, welcoming woman who immediately bonds with Sloan over cooking and makes her feel comfortable in the family home.

Paul is Jason's father, a handy and musical man who runs an outfitter business in Minnesota. He is responsible for teaching Jason how to play the guitar and sing, passing down his love for music.

David is Jason's brother who lives near their parents in Minnesota. He is a father to young children and maintains a casual, grounded presence in the family's rural life.

Jessa is the lead singer of the band opening for Jason's tour. She experiences the hectic reality of life on the road and provides a friendly face for the other women in the touring entourage.

Oliver is Kristen and Josh's one-year-old son. His presence, along with his baby gear, serves as a poignant reminder to Sloan of the life she planned to have with Brandon.

Pia is Jason's publicist who manages his media presence and public relations. She strategically coaches him on red carpet appearances to maximize positive coverage.

Adrian is Josh's cousin who is introduced to Sloan for a casual date. He is attractive and understanding of Sloan's emotional state, offering a no-strings-attached evening of fun.

Monique is a woman Jason casually dates before meeting Sloan. She is originally tasked with watching Tucker but abandons the responsibility to travel, prompting Jason to end their connection.