Walter is an angry, frustrated man. Nearly eighty years old, he is widowed and lives with his son and daughter in-law. Their relationship is strained and sometimes, volatile. In the beginning of the story the reader is made aware of the absence of Walter's young grandson, Chase.Evident from pictures displayed throughout the house and various conversations between Walter and his family, you quickly pick up that something is not right with this family.In an attempt to lift Walter's spirits, his son convinces him to join a senior swim class at the local community center. Many of his buddies have already participated and Walter reluctantly agrees to go on the pretense he will be helping one of his longtime friends.It is through these classes the story unfolds and reveals the secret of a school shooting that is the root of Walter's bitterness, horrific nightmares and missing grandson. Reuniting him with friends of the past begin to help him move forward and forge an unexpected romance that renews his sense of life and love.Walter eventually surmises that Lillian, the woman who has his affection, is the one he must now save during a difficult health issue. But what he doesn't realize is that he is the one who is being saved by everyone around him.Towards the end Walter and his family make peace and heal.The story concludes when Walter, exhausted from the day's festivities goes up to his bedroom to sleep. There his soul is at peace and he begins to float through the stars. He sees a bright tunnel and a small shadow walking toward him. Walter calls out, "Chasey?" The reply is simply, "Grandpa!"