The Snowfall That Thawed My Heart

Charlie Holland has always dreamed of studying at Valmore College and watching the snow there with his girlfriend, Melanie Johnson. But when Melanie gives up a promotion to stay near his cousin, Wilson Chandler, Charlie's mother, Kasey Chandler, insists he abandon Valmore and remain in town to care for Wilson, whose parents are gone.

At dinner, Wilson plays the victim, and both Kasey and Melanie rush to comfort him. Charlie quietly withdraws his old application and submits a new one to Valmore just before the deadline. When his mother demands an apology, Charlie exposes the truth about Uncle Terry's past help and accuses Melanie of being set up with Wilson. Melanie slaps him, and he leaves.

After a night by the sea, Charlie returns home to find his blanket and pillow on the living room floor. His mother tells him he will sleep there from now on, and he realizes the family he once knew is gone.