Princess Cyd

Cyd Loughlin, a spirited 16-year-old soccer player, is sent from her home in Columbia, South Carolina, to spend the summer with her estranged aunt, Miranda Ruth, in Chicago. This marks the beginning of a transformative journey for both Cyd and Miranda as they navigate their complicated relationship.

Upon arriving in Chicago, both Cyd and Miranda experience initial awkwardness due to their lack of familiarity with one another. However, as they spend time together, they begin to break down barriers, leading to a deeper bond.

Cyd and Miranda engage in various bonding activities including dining out, strolling through the neighborhood, and spending time at Lake Michigan. These shared experiences help build their relationship and allow Cyd to mature while influencing Miranda's more relaxed demeanor.

During their summer together, Cyd and Miranda discuss the memory of Cyd's deceased mother, Miranda's sister. This poignant conversation deepens their understanding of each other, bringing both comfort and contemplation regarding faith and loss.

Amidst her summer adventures, Cyd begins to explore her sexuality and develops a romantic interest in a local barista named Katie. This exploration adds complexity to Cyd's character as she navigates her feelings and challenges societal norms.

Miranda struggles with her feelings for her colleague, Anthony, who also harbors similar sentiments. Cyd decides to encourage their relationship, pushing both of them to take the leap and express their feelings for one another.

During a lively gathering at Miranda's house filled with friends and creatives, Cyd chooses to wear a man's tuxedo. This bold decision sparks discussions about respect in relationships and prompts Miranda to reflect on her own romantic life, leading to a heartwarming exchange.

The atmosphere takes a serious turn when Katie calls Cyd in distress after a near assault. Cyd and Miranda quickly come to her aid, offering support and inviting her to stay with them for the remainder of the summer, which strengthens their bond.

Cyd and Katie share their first intimate moment following a lovely day at the beach, marking a significant step in their relationship. During this time, Cyd reveals her difficult past involving her brother and their mother's tragic demise, deepening their emotional connection.

Cyd learns that she was named after a character in one of Miranda's earlier novels, Princess Cydney. This discovery creates a poignant connection between them, further solidifying their bond as aunt and niece.

As the summer comes to a close, Cyd and Katie make a heartfelt promise to keep their romance alive with future visits. They express their commitment to support each other, despite the distance that will separate them once Cyd returns home.

Cyd and Katie attend Miranda's book launch event, where they bolster Miranda's confidence and support her creative endeavors. The launch signifies a culmination of Miranda's hard work and serves as a celebration of their strengthened familial bond.

Before Cyd heads back to Columbia, a neighborhood celebration serves as a final farewell celebration among friends, family, and newfound connections. This event encapsulates the joy and growth that transpired over Cyd's summer in Chicago.

Cyd returns to her home in Columbia, reflecting on the impactful summer she spent with Miranda and Katie. The experience drastically changed her outlook on relationships and family, leaving a lasting impression.

After returning home, Cyd receives an uplifting phone call from Miranda. This conversation reassures Cyd of their continued bond and love, symbolizing the connection they developed over the summer.