The story revolves around a group of friends, primarily focusing on Bert, Sam, Sara, and Lily. The narrative explores the development of their relationships as Bert migrates west to satisfy his love of trees by attending Forestry School in Oregon. Along the way he becomes increasingly attached to his new friend Sam, and falls in love with Lily, a twin of Sam's love Sara. In the end he must confront the resolution of the mystery surrounding Sam's murder late at night in the parking lot of the funeral home where he was working.