Will is a 21-year-old student-teacher carrying immense familial duties following the sudden death of his parents. He acts as the sole guardian for his seven-year-old brother, Caulder, forcing him into a premature adulthood that leaves little room for a personal life. He processes his heavy responsibilities through slam poetry performances.

Layken is an 18-year-old high school senior who recently moved to Michigan from Texas after the sudden death of her father. She helps care for her younger brother, Kel, and handles her grief with sharp humor. A shared tragedy and mutual love for The Avett Brothers quickly bonds her with her older neighbor.

Julia is Layken and Kel's pragmatic mother. Following her husband's recent death, she focuses intently on securing her children's stability in their new Michigan home. She establishes clear boundaries to protect Layken from adult complications and harbors private concerns for her family's future.

Caulder is Will's seven-year-old brother. He relies entirely on Will following their parents' death. He quickly befriends his new neighbor, Kel, establishing a bond that brings the two households closer together.

Kel is Layken's younger brother who has recently relocated to Michigan. He forms an immediate friendship with Caulder Cooper. His presence naturally bridges the gap between his grieving family and their new neighbors across the street.

Gavin is a high school student in Will's class and an active participant in the local poetry slam scene. He maintains a stable relationship with his girlfriend, Eddie. He observes Will's romantic dilemma and offers direct advice.

Eddie is an outgoing high school student who quickly befriends the new arrival, Layken. Her persistent and friendly nature provides Layken with an essential social anchor. She occasionally complicates matters by attempting to play matchmaker for her friends.

Vaughn is Will's former girlfriend. She feels overwhelmed by his sudden acquisition of parental responsibilities following the car accident. Believing she is too young to act as a mother figure to Caulder, she chooses to leave.

Javier is a high school student in Will's poetry class. He lacks a verbal filter and makes inappropriate comments about his classmates. His behavior actively tests Will's professional composure.

Nick is a high school student who expresses interest in taking Layken on a date. His presence creates tension in the classroom dynamics and prompts jealousy.

Taylor is a family friend of Gavin and Eddie who agrees to go on a blind date with Will. She is understanding and pleasant when the date does not progress toward a deeper connection.

Mrs. Alex is the school secretary where Will completes his student teaching. She handles administrative tasks like schedule changes and faculty observation notices while maintaining a flirtatious rapport with the young teacher.