The Distance Between Us tells the tragic story of poverty, immigration, and the death of family bonds. As in all stories as such, those who suffer the most are the children that are helplessly caught up in the tragedy. Unlike Mago and Carlos, who are close to Reyna in terms of age and common circumstance, Reyna is separated from her baby sister, whose name is Betty.

Betty is distinct among her siblings, as she was born in America. Due to the abusive nature of the relationship of her parents, she is often a point of contention and even an object of threats and bribery between her parents. It is because of this poor upbringing that she becomes involved with gangs, whereas her siblings are able to make more sound choices.