Jack can hardly wait till the adoption is finalized and Jupiter is officially part of his family. Jupiter's father, Joseph, was Jack's foster brother, and since Joseph's death Jack has missed him like anything. Now three years old, cheerful and loving, Jupiter is adored by Jack and his parents. Her adoption will let Jack keep his promise to Joseph: He will always know where Jupiter is. Meanwhile, Jack isn't happy about Coach's decision to pair him with star athlete Jay Perkins to prep him for the cross-country team. He and Jay have a history—Jay bullied Joseph, and Jack fought back. And besides, Jay doesn't want to hang out with a dumb eighth grader. As Jack begins to get the hang of running and starts to see Jay as almost a friend, the adoption hits a snag. Another couple intends to adopt Jupiter. As blood relatives, their claim is powerful. The adults in charge feel they know what's best for Jupiter, and Jack is powerless to change their decision.