At Jane Collins' five-year high school reunion party in small town Evergreen, Washington, bad boy and law school wanna-be Chet Barton surprises Jane by rescuing her from a would-be rapist. Although she is intrigued by Chet, her guardian Bert doesn't trust the young man with the bad reputation. In spite of their differing upbringings-she from a working-class family and he from one of the wealthiest families in town-Jane and Chet become friends. Jane's life becomes even more challenging when Bert is diagnosed with stomach cancer. Through his long decline, Chet and Jane begin to plan a life together, hoping for Bert's and his parents' blessings. But Jane finds her mother's diary and discovers dark and disturbing secrets that shatter her dreams for the future. How can Chet convince Jane that they can still marry, despite past evils that haunt both their families?