The After franchise is famously known for its passionate love story between Tessa Young and Hardin Scott, but beyond the romantic drama lies a web of complicated family dynamics that has deeply influenced the characters’ choices, personalities, and emotional wounds. Understanding Tessa and Hardin’s family trees isn’t just about connecting names—it’s about uncovering the roots of their pain, resilience, and ultimate growth.
Ken Scott is one of the most complex figures in Hardin’s life. Initially portrayed as Hardin’s abusive and alcoholic father, it’s later revealed that he turned his life around and is now the Chancellor at Washington Central University. Ken is remarried and has another son—Landon—making him a stepfather to someone Hardin despises. Ken’s attempts to reconnect with Hardin are often met with resentment. However, his redemption arc parallels Hardin’s, showing that people can grow beyond their worst mistakes.
In one of the biggest twists of the After series, it’s revealed that Hardin’s biological father is not Ken Scott, but Christian Vance—his mother’s old friend and Tessa’s employer. This revelation sends shockwaves through Hardin’s world. Vance had unknowingly mentored Hardin, even offering him career guidance, unaware of their true connection. The discovery forces Hardin to confront feelings of betrayal and identity crisis, but it also sets him on the path of true self-discovery.
Tessa’s mother, Carol, is perhaps one of the most antagonistic parental figures in the series, though her motivations are rooted in fear and control rather than malice. She’s strict, image-conscious, and emotionally distant—often prioritizing appearances and societal expectations over Tessa’s happiness. Carol’s disdain for Hardin is palpable, and her disapproval drives a wedge between her and Tessa. Though her intentions may stem from wanting the best for her daughter, her methods leave Tessa feeling unsupported and stifled.
Tessa’s father, Richard, abandoned the family when Tessa was young, succumbing to alcoholism and homelessness. His reappearance in her life reopens old wounds but also offers Tessa a chance to confront her own fears of abandonment. Tragically, Richard dies of an overdose, leaving Tessa heartbroken and questioning the foundation of her life. His death becomes a turning point for her, pushing her toward independence and a deeper understanding of pain, forgiveness, and self-preservation.
Both Hardin and Tessa carry the trauma of their dysfunctional families into their relationship. Hardin’s volatility, fear of commitment, and anger stem largely from his abusive and chaotic upbringing. Tessa, though seemingly more composed, struggles with emotional repression, perfectionism, and fear of disappointing authority figures—especially her mother.
Their relationship mirrors these inner battles. They often try to heal each other without healing themselves first, leading to cycles of dependency and emotional turmoil. But as the story progresses, both begin to recognize that they must face their personal histories head-on.
In After Everything, the final installment, we see them both step outside of these inherited patterns. Hardin embarks on a journey of redemption and healing, facing his past in Portugal, while Tessa chooses to live life on her own terms, away from her mother’s control. It’s only after this emotional growth that a future between them seems possible.
