Ruthie's younger sister, who shares Ruthie's initial fear of abandonment but ultimately seeks stability and conventionality, pulling away from Ruthie and their unconventional living situation with Sylvie.

Ruthie and Lucille's aunt who returns to care for them after Helen's departure, bringing her transient lifestyle and unconventional housekeeping to their lives. She remains their only constant family presence, albeit in her unique way.

The grandfather of Ruthie and Lucille, whose adventurous spirit and jobs on the train influence the wanderlust nature observed in Sylvie and Ruthie. He dies in a train accident, leaving a legacy of the wandering spirit.

Ruthie and Lucille's grandmother, providing them with stability and care after their mother's departure. Her steady nature contrasts with her children's and grandchildren's tendencies to roam.

The mother of Ruthie and Lucille, who leaves her daughters in her mother's care before her tragic suicide. Her struggles with mental health and abandonment shape the narrative's exploration of familial and caretaker dynamics.