Margaret

A 17-year-old Manhattan student whose life is upended by a fatal accident she witnesses. She grapples with guilt, conflicting loyalties, and a growing sense of responsibility for events she barely witnessed. Her relationships with family, teachers, and peers push her into decisions that blur truth and consequence. The narrative centers on a teenager navigating trauma, moral responsibility, and public scrutiny.

Monica Patterson is the classmate whose death becomes the catalyst for Lisa's journey. Though she dies early, her presence lingers in memories, friendships, and the legal case that follows. Monica's friendship with Lisa and Emily shapes the emotional stakes and reveals how witnesses carry invisible guilt.

The bus driver whose distraction leads to Monica's death. He defends his actions, insisting he did nothing wrong. His refusal to accept fault fuels Lisa's drive for accountability through legal action against the MTA.

Lisa's mother, an actress whose career and personal life create tension at home. She negotiates between professional success, family loyalty, and the complexities of Lisa's choices, culminating in a vulnerable moment of connection in the opera.

Joan's boyfriend, whose presence stirs tension within the family. His relationship with Joan is tested by events surrounding the dinner and Lisa's feelings, and his death from a heart attack adds another layer of tragedy to the storyline.

Lisa's math teacher who becomes involved with her, raising ethical questions about power dynamics and boundaries. The subsequent revelations about pregnancy and abortion deepen the moral ambiguity surrounding the case.

A classmate involved in Lisa's exploration of sexuality. His interactions highlight teenage peer dynamics and the consequences of coming-of-age decisions within a tight-knit school community.

Monica's best friend who becomes an ally and foil to Lisa as events unfold. Their bond is tested by accusations and competing needs for attention, illustrating how friendships endure or fracture under public scrutiny.

Monica's cousin and Monica's next of kin in the wrongful-death settlement. She is drawn into the legal process, highlighting the human costs of the tragedy beyond Lisa's personal guilt.