John Bowden returns home following the mysterious death of his only brother. Pamela, an African-American who is a former schoolmate, greets him at the bus station and from that moment on, the two begin to form a close relationship. She tells him that his brother was involved in a drug ring and wanted out, but her brother Frank had refused.
To escape the pain of this mystery and of the cancer that eats away at Pamela, the two journey to a beach house, where thsy spend a few quiet days uncovering the past.
After they are brought word that Pamela's father has suffered a heart attack, they rush home to discover Frank pillaging their home.
In a fast-paced and violent ending, the themes of the story fall into place and the story ends with a heart touching finale.
