The brush of an arm, the tap of a hand, any skin to skin contact and Dakota Grinn is plagued with the horror of that person's death. He sees the Number, the date they'll die, and feels the pain they encounter when they do. Skin melting, knife twisting, bones cracking; Dakota feels it. And he's sick of it. Abandoned by his parent's because of his "gift", Dakota hops around foster home to foster home. The beginning of his 8 days start at a new foster home with a kind, understanding foster mom with a too low Number. As the 8 days pass, Dakota meets Andy, an adorable, sweet guy that insists on being his friend. Normally secluding himself from people, Dakota feels drawn to Andy. Is it the fact that his cute face takes his breath away? Is it because his light, gentle voice calms Dakota instantly? Or is it how whenever he feels Andy's Number, Dakota is filled with warmth and love and the feeling of having lived a long, happy life? And the strangest thing; Dakota sees himself right there with him, holding Andy lovingly in his arms. Even with the single source of warmth, Dakota is still left with the fear and pain of others' deaths. But only 8 days. He only needs to last 8 more days. Then Dakota ends it all. Or will Andy be able to save him in time?

Damian Owens refuses to take his medication. He consistently ditches therapy sessions, and won't speak a word to the living. Timothy Edward Richard McKinnon is your typical little fairy princess, sweet, innocent and an open heart full of love. He's the kind of kid who refuses to leave anyone behind, no matter how far underwater they drag him down. He doesn't give up on anybody. After Timmy's relocation to the rainy town of Ashland, their worlds collide in the most unexpected of places. He accidentally stumbles upon Damian and is granted the gift of hearing him speak. Although innocent on the surface, the younger boy will teach the other some of the darkest and most valuable lessons, starting with the importance of moving on, even when it seems impossible. cover credit to Amelia_Vale