Ox is a gentle, self-doubting fifteen-year-old living in Green Creek. His severe speech impediment isolates him socially, and his father's cruelty leaves him believing he is unintelligent. After securing a job at the local auto shop, he finds an unexpected support system. His life shifts permanently when the Bennett family moves in down the road, pulling him into a world of intense devotion and hidden secrets.

Joe is the ten-year-old son of Thomas and Elizabeth Bennett. Having recently returned to Green Creek, he forms an instant, overwhelming attachment to Ox. He carries deep psychological scars from a traumatic abduction in his early childhood. Despite his youth, he displays fierce loyalty and a protective streak toward his loved ones.

Gordo owns the local auto repair shop and serves as the gruff but caring leader of his crew. He steps in as a surrogate father to Ox, offering him guidance and a customized work shirt that signifies belonging. He harbors resentment toward the Bennett family and actively tries to keep Ox away from them.

Thomas is the patriarch of the Bennett family. He works from home in an ambiguous financial role but primarily focuses on leading his family. He values emotional transparency over aggression, acting as a steady guide for his household. He quickly recognizes Ox's unique value and treats him as an equal.

Richard Collins is a violent figure tied to the Bennett family's history. Driven by grief and a desire for revenge after losing his own family, he became cruel and sadistic. He is responsible for kidnapping and torturing young Joe, leaving a lasting impact on the entire community.

Elizabeth is an accomplished painter whose artwork hangs in museums. She acts as the nurturing presence in the Bennett home, cultivating a warm and intensely affectionate environment. She accepts Ox without hesitation, feeding him and integrating him into their domestic rituals.

Maggie is Ox's resilient mother who works long shifts as a waitress at the local diner. She does everything possible to keep her family afloat after her husband walks out. She possesses a bright sense of humor and encourages Ox to trust his instincts regarding his new friends.

Mark is the uncle to the Bennett boys and the first member of the family to speak with Ox. He acts as an observant guardian for his nephews. He carries tension regarding his return to Green Creek, particularly concerning his past with Gordo.

Carter is Joe's older brother and shares Ox's age. He is highly physical and expressive with his affection. At school, he takes an aggressive stance against anyone who tries to bully Ox, proving himself as a loyal friend.

Kelly is another of Joe's older brothers. He sits with Ox at lunch and helps integrate him into the family's highly tactile way of interacting. He is observant and fully supports the bonds forming within their group.

Jessie is the younger sister of one of the mechanics at Gordo's shop. She is confident and direct, quickly initiating a romantic relationship with Ox. She finds the Bennett family's behavior strange and occasionally voices her frustration over Joe's possessiveness.

Chris is a mechanic who experiences a tragic loss when his mother dies. He benefits from the intense physical and emotional comfort provided by his coworkers, demonstrating the shop's strong communal bonds.

Tanner is a mechanic at Gordo's garage. He contributes to the teasing but supportive atmosphere at work, helping Ox feel accepted through open affection and loyalty.

Rico works at the auto repair shop and brings a playful, probing energy to the group. He is quick to notice changes in Ox's life and consistently supports him.

Robbie is a young man sent by an overseeing council to gather information. He has lacked a stable home environment for years and quickly becomes eager to find a permanent place among the locals.

Osmond is an external associate who questions the local dynamics in Green Creek. He is highly critical of the family's close associations with outsiders and holds strict traditional views.

Frankie is a high school student who develops an obvious crush on Joe. He later works as a waiter at a local upscale restaurant, remaining intimidated by the intense bonds within Joe's circle.

David is a human raised in a violent hunting clan who eventually abandoned that life. He functions as an informant, bringing crucial warnings to Green Creek about looming external threats.

Michelle serves as an interim authority figure overseeing various communities. She attempts to exert influence over Green Creek, offering unwanted assistance that tests local loyalties.