Neil's life had always been miserable. He lived his entire life under his father's strict discipline and watchful eye. He had grown accustomed to this life.

He once dared to fulfill a dream – he played Puck in a play. He was good, really good. It had always been his dream, to be an actor. But his father never agreed, saying it was a waste of time, that he should focus on his studies. So, it was obvious his father didn't appreciate him acting in a play. He took him home, telling him that Neil was going to military school the next day.

And they left. He and his parents were heading towards military school. But an accident occurred – a truck hit them, and Neil was the only survivor.

Neil wasn't yet an adult – someone had to take care of him. Who would have thought that person would be Mr. Keating? John Keating was his new English teacher, who in four months had shown him more support than his own father had in 17 years. John had no children, but he'd always wanted one—especially a son as good as Neil. He offered without hesitation. And it worked—Keating adopted Neil.