Emma is a teenage girl grappling with severe mental health challenges, including depression and loneliness, brought on by her parents' messy divorce and a strained relationship with her absent mother. One day, seeking an escape, she visits a coffee shop where she strikes up a conversation with Cate, a charismatic and intriguing woman. The two bond over casual conversation, and for the first time in a long while, Emma feels seen.
Unbeknownst to Emma, Cate is actually her new language arts teacher. When Emma walks into class she realizes the truth, she's both stunned and conflicted. Cate, equally surprised but composed, handles the situation professionally but can't deny the unusual connection they share.
As the days pass, their dynamic becomes a complicated mix of tension and understanding. Cate pushes Emma to confront her struggles through writing and class discussions, while Emma wrestles with her feelings of vulnerability and anger. Their relationship evolves into a love-hate bond, marked by moments of intense connection and sharp conflict. Both women are forced to navigate uncharted emotional territory, questioning boundaries, trust, and the nature of the bond they've formed.