Meet the Characters: Marissa

I have to admit, when Marissa first appeared in my writing, she reminded me a lot of myself when I was younger. She is young, naive, and always tries to see the good in people. Until losing Chad.

She was over-involved in school from a young age. Softball, volleyball, cheerleading, basketball, band, and choir filled up most of her time While it didn’t leave her much free time, it kept her from being expected to babysit. She made sure none of her activities extended into the summer, so she could always travel with her grandparents.

It was during one of those summers she met Chad.

While Summer Love Autumn Goodbye began as Chad’s story, it quickly became about Marissa. She cared deeply for Chad, and she was able to see beyond all his faults and still be with him. No matter what he did, she would always be there for him. Until the moment he wasn’t there for her.

Making the decision to stop traveling during the summers after Chad’s death wasn’t an easy decision, but she knew she wouldn’t be able to move on while she was constantly reminded of him. Trapped in a new school without her best friend, she started spending most of her free time with Keith. Although they never actually dated, he was able to help her move on.

Keith suggested a support group, which is where Marissa met Rory, and the older girl took Marissa under her wing. They stayed in touch while Marissa finished school and later worked together.