Ethan Potter, Margaret Draper's grandson, lives on a farm in Epiphany with his parents. He goes to Florida to visit his grandmother at the same time Nadia is in Florida visiting her father and grandfather. Because Ethan and Nadia share grandparents now, they meet each other in Florida and spend time together.
On the first day of school, Ethan stakes out his seat on the school bus, wanting to have the seat to himself. But Julian Singh, a new student in school, chooses to sit next to him on the bus. Ethan tries to avoid conversation and eye contact with Julian, but Julian's kindness toward Ethan and everyone else influences Ethan. Ethan realizes that bullies from school intend to harass Julian, so he protects Julian from harm.
Julian Singh has just moved to Epiphany with his father. They bought the Sillington House and intend to open a Bed and Breakfast inn. Because Julian is new in Epiphany, and because he is different (he speaks with a British accent and is almost always polite and cheerful), he doesn't have any friends. Julian invites Noah, Nadia, and Ethan to the Sillington House for tea. The four friends call themselves "The Souls" and begin to meet at the Sillington House each Saturday at four o'clock for tea.
Julian's life at Epiphany is not easy. He is made fun of by mean students. Julian saves Nadia's dog, and the dog of his enemy's friend from a practical joke. He manages to find kindness in spite of the malice that he must endure.
