Twelve-year-old Steve Guralt has only one desire: to return to his mother's home. But on the three separate occasions that Steve has attempted to complete that journey, his efforts have been thwarted by people he can only describe as "bad men." While on his way to Houston to see his mom, Steve is so thoroughly traumatized by the necessity of running and hiding that the friendly voice of Carmen Torres, a helpful flight attendant, makes him cringe with fear and distrust. Carmen is able to overcome Steve's initial barriers, and she learns enough of his story to be convinced that this little boy needs help. She promises Steve that any more "bad men" will have to fight her if they try to take him again. Unknown to Carmen, this remarkable little boy, who has no earthly reason to trust anyone, was born with the gift of seeing things as they are. His natural tendency to say what he thinks leads him to a chance encounter with a man who changes his life forever. With the help of Carmen and an intuitive ally, Steve begins the long and difficult journey of training and hardship that will shape the rest of his life.