Melissa doesn't consider herself abused-Rudy only hits her occasionally when he's drinking-until she realizes the effect his abuse is having on their child. Finally Melissa leaves Rudy, and she and Cheyenne go to the shelter for battered women. As difficulties with group living arise, however, she misses the good times with Rudy. The clarity of Melissa's decision soon fades, and she finds herself again in a dangerous situation, more trapped than ever before.