Outcast Isaac and popular Stephanie have barely spoken in all their years in school. Now, in the ninth grade, their lives become intertwined with a strange boy from eastern Europe named Drágan Albescu. Everything about Drágan is exotic, from his vintage style of dress to his flowing long hair and delicate features. But he's also shrouded in great mystery.He reveals that he's a fashion model, so Stephanie searches his image on the internet and discovers modeling photos dating back to the 1920's. Then there's the valise Drágan carries that's so heavy Isaac can't lift it. Drágan also possesses more knowledge and wisdom than all the teachers at school, coupled with the uncanny ability to discern what others long to keep private, a power that particularly frightens Stephanie due to her own dark secrets. Who is this enigmatic boy who becomes the best friend Isaac ever had? Why do bullies at school suddenly stop their bullying? And what about the dead deer found torn to shreds in the woods? When Isaac and Stephanie learn the full truth about their new friend, they'll almost wish they hadn't.
