Twentysomething Brooklynites Mara and Jo have been close friends since middle school. Gradually, it becomes apparent that the increasingly unstable Jo has troubles that may be the result of substance abuse, or an even deeper problem. Over the course of a decade, the more stable Mara tries to help.

Caterina was born in South America but lives in New York. Her willingness to make close emotional connections to others is as much of a burden as it is a gift.