Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of domestic abuse, sexual assault, and the intentional weaponizing of stigma surrounding mental health concerns.

At a basement meeting, Gretchen confessed she had used the TRIAD money for gambling. She had stolen from all of them, particularly QB and Joy. Joy was furious that QB immediately forgave Gretchen for the theft, but she felt pressured to forgive Gretchen as well. Soon after, Les declared that no new members would be admitted into the Family.

When Joy was six months pregnant, QB had an angry outburst and threw a metal laundry basket against the wall, causing the dog to defecate on the floor in fear. He broke pots and planters on the porch and left the house. Emily came over and comforted Joy. She told Joy what had happened was wrong and shared her concerns about her own husband, Abe, who suffered from vertigo due to a problem with his retina. Joy began experiencing Braxton-Hicks contractions due to the stress of the situation.

When Rosie was born, Les and Martine came to the hospital for support. Joy loved her daughter even though it was “a terrifying feeling” to be responsible for such a helpless being.