Cal is the main character and narrator. He’s a heroic protagonist who befriends and helps save Gretchen from further torturous abuse. However, Cal’s compassion isn’t initially at the forefront of the story. When Gretchen tells him her dad will hurt her if she has detention, he dismisses her. He and his friends also make fun of her behind her back, calling her “Gretch the Wretch” and speculating on her and her sister’s mental condition. Cal’s more antagonistic traits are primarily present at the start of the novel, when Cal is part of a larger group of friends or classmates.

While initially dismissive of Gretchen, Cal first reveals his compassionate traits to the readers when he saves a rabbit from harm and expresses concern about the abused dog next door. Soon, Cal applies this same kindness to Gretchen. When he learns about her sexually abusive relationship with her dad, he makes a plan to save her. As Cal has no one to help him or anyone to confide in, he realizes he must handle the danger on his own. Cal risks his own reputation and relationships to save Gretchen, who is ultimately freed of her father when he is imprisoned and charged with murder.