Joe’s house belonged to Aunt Annie. When he arrived at his aunt’s house when he was 12, he had bruises and clenched fists. He was afraid, and his aunt let him stay. She died and left him the property, so now he lets young people stay as long as they want. Joe admits that he’s neither Aunt Annie nor a legal foster parent, but he can give young people a safe space.

When Laura, Stephie’s mother, was a teen, she got pregnant, and an “educated” couple adopted the baby. Laura remembers the “joy” of holding the baby and her hectoring parents. Laura won’t lecture Stephie, and though she loves Stephie, she doesn’t believe she can help her. Laura believes Stephie must figure out what to do by herself.

Jason hasn’t spoken to his coach, but Harden hears the rumors and feels unwell. Jason is Harden’s dream player: He made varsity his freshman year, and he is a state all-star. Jason works hard and can play basketball for whatever college he wants. Harden doesn’t think of Jason as a person who avoids responsibilities. He thinks Jason cares about