M hmmm. One pm in the lower Bottoms. The streets are dusty, hazy, sparse. As much shit as I talk about Oakland, there's no doubt it's in a stead of the interesting place. The Victorian houses here a gorgeous Even the ones that are totally falling apart had their own charm. It makes me wonder who the fell lives here. If it weren't for the fact that the front bumper of my car is practically falling off, I probably wouldn't be pondering these questions. As it is, I'm riding the streets on an old Fixie and hating everythingite of it. Over a week ago, my sister woke up from a coma. Since my best friend is a domestic terrorists, radical activists, violent stream as could leader, Savannah couldn't say exactly, and by the time she had slipped back into a coma, she had practically become and coherent. But I have a hard time believing Rebecca is part of any sophisticated organization. Getting her to admit what she's up to shouldn't be too hard. We got sidetracked that night at the laundry map, So tonight's the night I get to talk to her. Perhaps I'm being naive, but I think I can stop her before she does something drastic. If Savannah was right, then I only have a couple of weeks before she tries to pull off whatever plan she has in her mind. Hello, if you're trying to buy Molly, you're looking for the house next door. I'm looking for Rebecca. She's not here. Is there something I can help you with? Really? She just texts me like ten minutes ago and said she was at home. Oh wait, you're something and a sister. You guys look so different though, first time anyone said that before. We're identical twins. But you too have like two totally different vibes. Like I don't get the Oakland vibe from you at all. I have no idea what an Oakland vibe is. I've been on the East Coast for the last few years. I'm sorry I didn't get your name Bobbins. Interesting? Interesting? Is that a nickname? So? Like, did you want to call Rebecca? She had to go to the store around the corner, which you told me might get here before she got back. I mean, you come in and wade. I'm sure she'll be back in a minute. Yeah, sure, I'll just leave my bike here if that's all right. It doesn't matter to me. Cute talk. I wish I could say the same for this dump. There's literally dog feces on the ground, peeling paint, hardly any furniture. Every inch looks soiled. I don't get it. Why is Rebecca living like this? Her family is very much middle class and she's a Berkeley graduate. Not to sound like it's not, but I mean, she could do better. Let's take off. Let me introduce you everybody else. Throw in the living room people. This is Savannah's sister, Beulah, Beulah. This is Jompall and Kenya more urban hillbillies. Why are they smiling so damn much? Such a pretty name is fresh. My family's originally from Louisiana. It's kind of a southern name. That's awesome. Make yourself at home. By the way, have you seen anywhere you like? Should I sit on the mattress? Yeah, just make sure you don't sit on the edge. Take your head a little accident. Over there? Are you guys squatting you? I'd have to argue that no persons a squatter, since housing is literally a human right. Let me rephrase that, do you have a lease? What are you an art not? The owner is just a slum lord. You don't seem like you're from Oakland, That's what I said. Technically we grew up in Piedmont. Where is that? Obviously you're not from here. Piedmonts or the upper middle class people in Oakland. Lift, that's where people go and to feel like they're not actually in Oh god, I see, yeah that makes sense. That's not really just you seem supertense. I'm fine, thank you, yeah, thank you? So what are your back ups here today? I think we're gonna chill. We didn't get to catch up much last time we hung out. Oh wait, hold on, were you the one that was with Rebecca when all that ship went down with that girl and her pants? Yeah? That was me. Damn. That's so fucking sad. I see girls like that all the time, especially around here. Apparently it's all connected to the Russian mafia. Russian mafia, yep, they're like huge in San Francisco, but it's hilloo Kian ship, so no one talks about it, not even the police. Okay, but why do people blame Russia for everything? You know? America doesn't shady ship too. You live here, you know. Definitely these fires, for example, it's clearly domestic terrorism. Yeah, and how the funk would you know? I read I also studied criminology in college. So what you were trying to be gob or something like that? Yeah, I just don't get how you can support law enforcement after what happened to your sister. What does Savannah have to do with anything? If she were here now, I'm sure she would take complete responsibility for her actions. If she can take responsibility, soaking the officer who shot her? Cool? Come on, Sorry, it's just a really triggering topic for me. You know, I just don't understand how you, a black woman, can defend an institution that's oppressed your people for like the last two years. Uh, she's not really black though, she like mixed, And of course you're only gonna claim her blackness when his suits are Look, no, share, girl. Both my parents are black, Okay, so are my sister and I? Okay? Well, your light skinned privilege allows you to go on. I think I can actually feel my blood blood. Who is this cast of characters? It's as if I stepped into Wonderland or odds of some other alternative universe. I must get away from the people before I let them provoke me any further. Can I use your restroom please? You know hold down here is broken, but you can use the one Rebecca's room. Where is that upstairs? Firs store on the right, thank you? Oh my god? And I wonder Savannah was all fucked up. Rebecca's friends are certified crazy. But there's just no way these people are involved in any organization, especially one responsible for carrying out an actual cohesive plan. If my short time at Quantico taught me anything, it's that criminal. Especially colvert ones cannot be this dumb. It does make me question why Rebecca would surround herself with these kinds of people. Sure she was always an activist, but for what I've seen, these are petty day players. Rebecca's bedroom is born nondescript, tidy, given the hell in all its other rooms. I am surprised, in fact, it's so clean and suspicious, like a hotel room. I wasn't planning on going through are things I am now, some bills, documents. There's nothing incriminating in these doors. I feel ridiculous. I don't even know what I'm looking for. Something just feels off about this room. It's perfection must be intentional. That is made clothes neatly folded, seriously, not even a speck of dust anywhere. Rebecca has never been a neat creek. What's this hold on? I've seen this cup before, a plastic traveler's mug with a rainbow colored I heeart and why Rebecca about this? Years ago, back in high school. She got it from a spy shop for Fisherman's War, one of those places full of consumer novelties like Teddy Bear, nanny camps and surveillance sunglasses. I remember telling her there was no way anyone would fall for this stupid cup with a secret compartment for her weed snatch. Plus, I said she had never even been to any York. Maybe your friend gave it to me as again, she argued, and she bought it. The cup was thirty dollars, which I distinctly recall being outrageously overpriced. But nearly a decade later, here it is. The question is why ship? Hey, Um, I'm sorry, I was just looking for the bobbins I win. She took the bait away. I thought for sure Homegirl would have the ovaries to do it. Do what Oh my god, Belah. You should see the look on your face right now. You look like someone who thought they were the smartest person in the room, but in fact you felt for the travel mug, the one you said was stupid. Remember, I was just looking at the mug that I know what you're doing? What am I doing? You never left the FBI. In fact, we know you're probably part of some cointel pro operation, like the same scumbags who loved at my uncle. You ought to know that I'm more informed than most on the FBI's fucked up tactics. I know how this looks, Rebecca. I left the academy halfway through. You told me, come on, don't insult my intelligence, as if I'd fall for your story about wanting to take care of your sister and help your grandma and pretend to be a care person from once in your life, as if you leave your dream job to sling Laut's a ship hole like resist, No, I mean yes, that's exactly what I'm doing, Savannah. Is more important than a job. Serious question? Do they require acting classes at the academy? Like do you have to study? Had a lot of friends and family. It would be awesome if you could cry on cue. The whole story would be much much more believable. Rebecca, this is ridiculous. I'm not in the FBI anymore, I promise, And even if I was. What do you have to hide anyway? Okay, now we're getting somewhere. What do I have to hide? Poppy? I don't think you should have to hide anything, but you already know how I feel. I guess it's really more about what you have to gain. True, there is something I would like to gain. Jesus, stop with the riddles, all right, ll maybe blunt join us, Join join what I thought you were done playing dumb? Don't you know who we are? Look, I had my suspicions. I have no idea what you're actually up to or what group you're all in. Let me show you this Friday. I'll tell you everything you want to know. Maybe you want to be a part of what we're doing. Come on, friend, what do you say where the Old Street train station? That place is creepy and weird. Why they're because it's where you're going to be reborn. The days following Shaunta's arrival to Freedom House, we're difficult, to say the least, certainly given her history, past traumas and lack of appropriate coping mechanisms, how could anyone expect any different from this disturbed young woman. Thus her tumultuous adjustment period will not come as a shock to anyone. The very first evening she spent at the house, Irene introduced Chantony to her new roommates, whom Chante promptly judged as whack, seeming to sense her dislike. The girls were indifferent to Chante, nearly to the point of rudeness. After supper, which consisted of foods that Chante thought inetible, the girls attempted to make small talk with Chante. Irene had encouraged them to make her feel welcomed, but her faith in their social skills exceeded the reality of their abilities. Thus they succeeded only in making matters worse. The incident began when one of the girls, whose name was Joscelyn, asked Chanty if she wanted to take a shower. The question itself was innocent enough, but it must be recalled that Chante had not slept in forty eight hours. Perturbed by Jocelyn's question, the conversation began to take a turn for the worse, And what the funk you trying to say? Are you trying to say as to think? Actually, I was gonna let you go first if you wanted to know I'm good. How about you get your funky as in the bed. Look, you don't have to be so extra. I was just trying to be nice. Okay, Well how about you get your friendly as in the bathroom and get the funk out my face. At this point, Vicky, the other young lady in the room, joined the conversation. Naively, she thought perhaps she could quell the rising tensions. Placing her hand on Shanta's shoulder, she interjected, girl, take it down a notch. You have to live together. Down and that girl, you don't get your hands off of me so uncalled for? What are you getting so angry? Unfortunately for poor Vicki, she was far too slow in removing her hand from Shante's person. Reaching as far back as she could, Shanty smacked the girl with all of her might. For a brief second, the image of Angela flashed in her mind. Vicki took several minutes to recuperate after the assault. By then Chanty was in the shower. She felt confident in her original assessment that these girls were weak, and she had no inclination to believe that they would attempt to return her act of violence. She was quite wrong. Unbeknownst to our heroine, Jocelyn and Vickie conspired against her as she bathed. They waited until she was fast asleep before making their attack. One of the girls grabbed Chante by the neck and the other punched her in the stomach. Chantes howled like a feral cat, scratching and pulling at whatever she could manage to get her hands on. A group of girls entered the room to see what all the noise was about. Irene stormed into the room soon after and observed the scene with horror. In a powerful voice unusual for a woman of her size, she demanded they stop immediately. It was odd the authority she had over them. Hearing her voice, Jocelyn and Vicki ceased their ambush and apologized to Irene. Chante, however, would have none of it and continued to attack them. Irene's normally pleasant expression turned dark as she addressed Chante, you touch either of these girls again, and you will leave this house tonight. Do you understand me? I won't have this behavior here, absolutely unacceptable. But how are you going to yell at me when I don't want to here anymore? Okay, now I want you to get your things. Melissa, please take Shanty to your room. She'll be bunking with you for now. Chante continued her protestations, but ultimately complied. She wondered who this woman thought she was to tell her what to do, but also sensing that Irene was not one to cross, she did not verbalize her thoughts. The next morning, at the breakfast table, Irene made it clear she was appalled by the events of the previous evening. It was her expectation that all girls at Freedom House conduct themselves like young adults. Shall They rolled her eyes but said nothing. Later that afternoon, she attended group therapy for the first time in her life. She listened to girls telling stories of difficult childhood's, homelessness, and drug abuse. What was the big deal, she thought, Why didn't they get over it and move on? It all seemed rather pointless and boring to her. When it was her turn to share, she outright refused to participate, telling Irene and the others that her life was nobody's business. To her surprise, Irene simply said it was fair enough and didn't push her on the topic. Even more surprising was when Irene began to share details of her own experiences with the group. Like a lot of you girls, I had a tough time growing up. But unlike most of your stories, my parents weren't absent, drug addicted, or mentally ill. They were the opposite, actually very involved, very controlling. It didn't matter what I did, I was always doing It's wrong. Over the years, it wore me down. Abuse isn't always physical. Psychological abuse leaves scars too, They're just not always visible. By the time I was fifteen, I had enough. I started acting out, drinking, staying out all night, failing my classes. Where I'm from, kids get sent away when they misbehaved like I did. I didn't wait for that to happen to me. I ran away. I know that compared to a lot of you, my story speaks to my privilege. I wasn't forced onto the streets after all. Nonetheless, I found myself falling freedom and who used to meet its assaulted me and left to be for deadry. At some point I mustered enough self esteem to leave that life behind. All of that energy I was putting into others, I started to put into myself. That is what I want for all of you. Independence. Jane was surprised to see an authority figure so vulnerable. She wondered how old Irene was to have experienced so much in life and seemingly have everything figured out. As the days went by, Jante began to let her guard down, not a lot, but enough for everyone in the house to note the change. She wasn't sure at what point her lack of dislike for Irene became admiration, but it didn't take long. Everyone else en chanted with her too. Rarely did she raise her voice, yet she always got the results she desired from the girls. Perhaps it was the individual attention she had paid to each person in the house, or maybe it was because for many she was the only person in their short lives to show genuine compassion for their plights. In any case, no one wanted to lose her respect. At the end of Schante's first week, Irene took her out to lunch so they could have one on one time away from the others. During the meal, the older woman prodded the girl for more information about her life, asking numerous questions. She was very charming, chatty and interested. I want to hear more about your life before Freedom House. Do you haven't said much because there's nothing to say. Okay, I get it, you're still warming up to us. But let me ask in a different way. What were the events that led up to your arrival? Okay? There was this dude I can in the open week. Things went sideways and then the cops brought me here. What was the dude's name, Davion? What was he like and as whole? Duh? How old was he? I don't know, whinny something? What did you like about him? Damn? Bit you real? Nosy? I don't know. I mean he seemed like he had a ship together. Chante, do you ever want something different for your life? Different? Different? How there's a powerful determination in you. I can see it. You remind me of myself when I was your age. But I can tell that you've been living on instinct and not in tuition. Huh. Look, your story has been predetermined for so long you can't see how free you really are. Um, you want to come again? You know, It's like in Roger Rabbit. You're not bad, You're just drawn that way. But you can break character and change your story at any point. Okay, listen, I see where you going with this. But Jessica Rabbit was fine as fun and that's who I want to be. But I mean all in, I guess I see what you're saying. Fantastic with a little time. I think you're really going to excel here. Just watch. I am super excited. Irene. You cool and all, but you sound white is funk right now. After that day, which had been the most pleasant day Chante had had in a long while, Irene could do no wrong. In our heroine's eyes, she began to see Irene as the older sister she never had. In essence, she idealized her. Still, there were a few things about Freedom House that Chanty found odd, but Irene always had a simple explanation for these occurrences. For example, when Chanta inquired why Irene was the only adult in the building, Irene chancer was simple and vain. Any house manager who can't handle ten girls should not be a house manager. And then there were the police officers who frequented the house. It didn't seem to have a purpose other than checking in on the girls, usually behind closed doors. Again, Irene had only glib commentary that didn't quite satisfy. These are members of our community who express an interest in seeing you girls succeed. Freedom House wouldn't exist without their support. Officer Corey has been asking about you. In fact, another time, Irene's office door had been left slightly Ajar Chante heard her on the phone speaking the language she couldn't place. But then she hadn't encountered any Russians in play on New Courts with blood seats night. When she turned and saw Chante at the doorway giving her a strange look, Irene shut the door. When Chantey later asked what language she was speaking, Irene feigned confusion. Didn't really sound like I was speaking in another language. Maybe I was mumbling. I usually do that when I'm on the phone with my mama. These explanations were wholly inadequate. In fact, one could characterize them as blatant lies. But our dear Chantey turned a blind eye to what was so clear. She did not suspect that the lovely woman before her, dressed in spotless white and radiant with smiles, would soon reveal herself to be a wretched and vile miscreant and likewise, Irene knew little of whom she deceived. Her pride so much like the angel Lucifers prevented her from seeing the hell fire that awaited her. Y'all we got the Lower Bottles episode far returning to sloop. Not bad, just drawn that black? Yeah uh? Will Packer a second ave producer James Opez I wasacutive producer, Look Here, Jack Leavy SACTI producer and direct Let's Go Dominique Love Time Yeah Now creator and writer, producer, Lay your Baby you need Hello, Hello, Whitney Fuller creative executive Michael kuth Burd co producer, Real Alexis recording mixer, Sown design, Ross Davis Audio consult Losing supervisor Jeff Forser, Music by Deaf Jeff the Boy, Joe Off, Tony Homer Score, Mongers Pays Ramsey Production Assistant Junior Rohne Production Assistant. You didn't main cast now you did? Hey? Yeah and the Alonza plays Blue Lick, Jordan Dick playing his poppets, Katia Fridley, Irene come on, Hey, Kelsey Grammer the narrator, come on, Ryandesson plays Rebecca. You didn't She's Shanna Watkins playing as Jocelyn pay, Teresa Celeste, Shante Thomas. You didn't shuts out, so it's Mission Town Venus baby, you know for real though sound by podcast Stage. Yeah, this has been a Will Packer Media production. I heart production and I am that boy. Drew down the want to know No Phoni, IM mac when don't to run man, Let's go that's an additional voice. Yeah, I want to know it. Let's go. Go by

M hmmm. One pm in the lower Bottoms. The streets are dusty, hazy, sparse. As much shit as I talk about Oakland, there's no doubt it's in a stead of the interesting place. The Victorian houses here a gorgeous Even the ones that are totally falling apart had their own charm. It makes me wonder who the fell lives here. If it weren't for the fact that the front bumper of my car is practically falling off, I probably wouldn't be pondering these questions. As it is, I'm riding the streets on an old Fixie and hating everythingite of it. Over a week ago, my sister woke up from a coma. Since my best friend is a domestic terrorists, radical activists, violent stream as could leader, Savannah couldn't say exactly, and by the time she had slipped back into a coma, she had practically become and coherent. But I have a hard time believing Rebecca is part of any sophisticated organization. Getting her to admit what she's up to shouldn't be too hard. We got sidetracked that night at the laundry map, So tonight's the night I get to talk to her. Perhaps I'm being naive, but I think I can stop her before she does something drastic. If Savannah was right, then I only have a couple of weeks before she tries to pull off whatever plan she has in her mind. Hello, if you're trying to buy Molly, you're looking for the house next door. I'm looking for Rebecca. She's not here. Is there something I can help you with? Really? She just texts me like ten minutes ago and said she was at home. Oh wait, you're something and a sister. You guys look so different though, first time anyone said that before. We're identical twins. But you too have like two totally different vibes. Like I don't get the Oakland vibe from you at all. I have no idea what an Oakland vibe is. I've been on the East Coast for the last few years. I'm sorry I didn't get your name Bobbins. Interesting? Interesting? Is that a nickname? So? Like, did you want to call Rebecca? She had to go to the store around the corner, which you told me might get here before she got back. I mean, you come in and wade. I'm sure she'll be back in a minute. Yeah, sure, I'll just leave my bike here if that's all right. It doesn't matter to me. Cute talk. I wish I could say the same for this dump. There's literally dog feces on the ground, peeling paint, hardly any furniture. Every inch looks soiled. I don't get it. Why is Rebecca living like this? Her family is very much middle class and she's a Berkeley graduate. Not to sound like it's not, but I mean, she could do better. Let's take off. Let me introduce you everybody else. Throw in the living room people. This is Savannah's sister, Beulah, Beulah. This is Jompall and Kenya more urban hillbillies. Why are they smiling so damn much? Such a pretty name is fresh. My family's originally from Louisiana. It's kind of a southern name. That's awesome. Make yourself at home. By the way, have you seen anywhere you like? Should I sit on the mattress? Yeah, just make sure you don't sit on the edge. Take your head a little accident. Over there? Are you guys squatting you? I'd have to argue that no persons a squatter, since housing is literally a human right. Let me rephrase that, do you have a lease? What are you an art not? The owner is just a slum lord. You don't seem like you're from Oakland, That's what I said. Technically we grew up in Piedmont. Where is that? Obviously you're not from here. Piedmonts or the upper middle class people in Oakland. Lift, that's where people go and to feel like they're not actually in Oh god, I see, yeah that makes sense. That's not really just you seem supertense. I'm fine, thank you, yeah, thank you? So what are your back ups here today? I think we're gonna chill. We didn't get to catch up much last time we hung out. Oh wait, hold on, were you the one that was with Rebecca when all that ship went down with that girl and her pants? Yeah? That was me. Damn. That's so fucking sad. I see girls like that all the time, especially around here. Apparently it's all connected to the Russian mafia. Russian mafia, yep, they're like huge in San Francisco, but it's hilloo Kian ship, so no one talks about it, not even the police. Okay, but why do people blame Russia for everything? You know? America doesn't shady ship too. You live here, you know. Definitely these fires, for example, it's clearly domestic terrorism. Yeah, and how the funk would you know? I read I also studied criminology in college. So what you were trying to be gob or something like that? Yeah, I just don't get how you can support law enforcement after what happened to your sister. What does Savannah have to do with anything? If she were here now, I'm sure she would take complete responsibility for her actions. If she can take responsibility, soaking the officer who shot her? Cool? Come on, Sorry, it's just a really triggering topic for me. You know, I just don't understand how you, a black woman, can defend an institution that's oppressed your people for like the last two years. Uh, she's not really black though, she like mixed, And of course you're only gonna claim her blackness when his suits are Look, no, share, girl. Both my parents are black, Okay, so are my sister and I? Okay? Well, your light skinned privilege allows you to go on. I think I can actually feel my blood blood. Who is this cast of characters? It's as if I stepped into Wonderland or odds of some other alternative universe. I must get away from the people before I let them provoke me any further. Can I use your restroom please? You know hold down here is broken, but you can use the one Rebecca's room. Where is that upstairs? Firs store on the right, thank you? Oh my god? And I wonder Savannah was all fucked up. Rebecca's friends are certified crazy. But there's just no way these people are involved in any organization, especially one responsible for carrying out an actual cohesive plan. If my short time at Quantico taught me anything, it's that criminal. Especially colvert ones cannot be this dumb. It does make me question why Rebecca would surround herself with these kinds of people. Sure she was always an activist, but for what I've seen, these are petty day players. Rebecca's bedroom is born nondescript, tidy, given the hell in all its other rooms. I am surprised, in fact, it's so clean and suspicious, like a hotel room. I wasn't planning on going through are things I am now, some bills, documents. There's nothing incriminating in these doors. I feel ridiculous. I don't even know what I'm looking for. Something just feels off about this room. It's perfection must be intentional. That is made clothes neatly folded, seriously, not even a speck of dust anywhere. Rebecca has never been a neat creek. What's this hold on? I've seen this cup before, a plastic traveler's mug with a rainbow colored I heeart and why Rebecca about this? Years ago, back in high school. She got it from a spy shop for Fisherman's War, one of those places full of consumer novelties like Teddy Bear, nanny camps and surveillance sunglasses. I remember telling her there was no way anyone would fall for this stupid cup with a secret compartment for her weed snatch. Plus, I said she had never even been to any York. Maybe your friend gave it to me as again, she argued, and she bought it. The cup was thirty dollars, which I distinctly recall being outrageously overpriced. But nearly a decade later, here it is. The question is why ship? Hey, Um, I'm sorry, I was just looking for the bobbins I win. She took the bait away. I thought for sure Homegirl would have the ovaries to do it. Do what Oh my god, Belah. You should see the look on your face right now. You look like someone who thought they were the smartest person in the room, but in fact you felt for the travel mug, the one you said was stupid. Remember, I was just looking at the mug that I know what you're doing? What am I doing? You never left the FBI. In fact, we know you're probably part of some cointel pro operation, like the same scumbags who loved at my uncle. You ought to know that I'm more informed than most on the FBI's fucked up tactics. I know how this looks, Rebecca. I left the academy halfway through. You told me, come on, don't insult my intelligence, as if I'd fall for your story about wanting to take care of your sister and help your grandma and pretend to be a care person from once in your life, as if you leave your dream job to sling Laut's a ship hole like resist, No, I mean yes, that's exactly what I'm doing, Savannah. Is more important than a job. Serious question? Do they require acting classes at the academy? Like do you have to study? Had a lot of friends and family. It would be awesome if you could cry on cue. The whole story would be much much more believable. Rebecca, this is ridiculous. I'm not in the FBI anymore, I promise, And even if I was. What do you have to hide anyway? Okay, now we're getting somewhere. What do I have to hide? Poppy? I don't think you should have to hide anything, but you already know how I feel. I guess it's really more about what you have to gain. True, there is something I would like to gain. Jesus, stop with the riddles, all right, ll maybe blunt join us, Join join what I thought you were done playing dumb? Don't you know who we are? Look, I had my suspicions. I have no idea what you're actually up to or what group you're all in. Let me show you this Friday. I'll tell you everything you want to know. Maybe you want to be a part of what we're doing. Come on, friend, what do you say where the Old Street train station? That place is creepy and weird. Why they're because it's where you're going to be reborn. The days following Shaunta's arrival to Freedom House, we're difficult, to say the least, certainly given her history, past traumas and lack of appropriate coping mechanisms, how could anyone expect any different from this disturbed young woman. Thus her tumultuous adjustment period will not come as a shock to anyone. The very first evening she spent at the house, Irene introduced Chantony to her new roommates, whom Chante promptly judged as whack, seeming to sense her dislike. The girls were indifferent to Chante, nearly to the point of rudeness. After supper, which consisted of foods that Chante thought inetible, the girls attempted to make small talk with Chante. Irene had encouraged them to make her feel welcomed, but her faith in their social skills exceeded the reality of their abilities. Thus they succeeded only in making matters worse. The incident began when one of the girls, whose name was Joscelyn, asked Chanty if she wanted to take a shower. The question itself was innocent enough, but it must be recalled that Chante had not slept in forty eight hours. Perturbed by Jocelyn's question, the conversation began to take a turn for the worse, And what the funk you trying to say? Are you trying to say as to think? Actually, I was gonna let you go first if you wanted to know I'm good. How about you get your funky as in the bed. Look, you don't have to be so extra. I was just trying to be nice. Okay, Well how about you get your friendly as in the bathroom and get the funk out my face. At this point, Vicky, the other young lady in the room, joined the conversation. Naively, she thought perhaps she could quell the rising tensions. Placing her hand on Shanta's shoulder, she interjected, girl, take it down a notch. You have to live together. Down and that girl, you don't get your hands off of me so uncalled for? What are you getting so angry? Unfortunately for poor Vicki, she was far too slow in removing her hand from Shante's person. Reaching as far back as she could, Shanty smacked the girl with all of her might. For a brief second, the image of Angela flashed in her mind. Vicki took several minutes to recuperate after the assault. By then Chanty was in the shower. She felt confident in her original assessment that these girls were weak, and she had no inclination to believe that they would attempt to return her act of violence. She was quite wrong. Unbeknownst to our heroine, Jocelyn and Vickie conspired against her as she bathed. They waited until she was fast asleep before making their attack. One of the girls grabbed Chante by the neck and the other punched her in the stomach. Chantes howled like a feral cat, scratching and pulling at whatever she could manage to get her hands on. A group of girls entered the room to see what all the noise was about. Irene stormed into the room soon after and observed the scene with horror. In a powerful voice unusual for a woman of her size, she demanded they stop immediately. It was odd the authority she had over them. Hearing her voice, Jocelyn and Vicki ceased their ambush and apologized to Irene. Chante, however, would have none of it and continued to attack them. Irene's normally pleasant expression turned dark as she addressed Chante, you touch either of these girls again, and you will leave this house tonight. Do you understand me? I won't have this behavior here, absolutely unacceptable. But how are you going to yell at me when I don't want to here anymore? Okay, now I want you to get your things. Melissa, please take Shanty to your room. She'll be bunking with you for now. Chante continued her protestations, but ultimately complied. She wondered who this woman thought she was to tell her what to do, but also sensing that Irene was not one to cross, she did not verbalize her thoughts. The next morning, at the breakfast table, Irene made it clear she was appalled by the events of the previous evening. It was her expectation that all girls at Freedom House conduct themselves like young adults. Shall They rolled her eyes but said nothing. Later that afternoon, she attended group therapy for the first time in her life. She listened to girls telling stories of difficult childhood's, homelessness, and drug abuse. What was the big deal, she thought, Why didn't they get over it and move on? It all seemed rather pointless and boring to her. When it was her turn to share, she outright refused to participate, telling Irene and the others that her life was nobody's business. To her surprise, Irene simply said it was fair enough and didn't push her on the topic. Even more surprising was when Irene began to share details of her own experiences with the group. Like a lot of you girls, I had a tough time growing up. But unlike most of your stories, my parents weren't absent, drug addicted, or mentally ill. They were the opposite, actually very involved, very controlling. It didn't matter what I did, I was always doing It's wrong. Over the years, it wore me down. Abuse isn't always physical. Psychological abuse leaves scars too, They're just not always visible. By the time I was fifteen, I had enough. I started acting out, drinking, staying out all night, failing my classes. Where I'm from, kids get sent away when they misbehaved like I did. I didn't wait for that to happen to me. I ran away. I know that compared to a lot of you, my story speaks to my privilege. I wasn't forced onto the streets after all. Nonetheless, I found myself falling freedom and who used to meet its assaulted me and left to be for deadry. At some point I mustered enough self esteem to leave that life behind. All of that energy I was putting into others, I started to put into myself. That is what I want for all of you. Independence. Jane was surprised to see an authority figure so vulnerable. She wondered how old Irene was to have experienced so much in life and seemingly have everything figured out. As the days went by, Jante began to let her guard down, not a lot, but enough for everyone in the house to note the change. She wasn't sure at what point her lack of dislike for Irene became admiration, but it didn't take long. Everyone else en chanted with her too. Rarely did she raise her voice, yet she always got the results she desired from the girls. Perhaps it was the individual attention she had paid to each person in the house, or maybe it was because for many she was the only person in their short lives to show genuine compassion for their plights. In any case, no one wanted to lose her respect. At the end of Schante's first week, Irene took her out to lunch so they could have one on one time away from the others. During the meal, the older woman prodded the girl for more information about her life, asking numerous questions. She was very charming, chatty and interested. I want to hear more about your life before Freedom House. Do you haven't said much because there's nothing to say. Okay, I get it, you're still warming up to us. But let me ask in a different way. What were the events that led up to your arrival? Okay? There was this dude I can in the open week. Things went sideways and then the cops brought me here. What was the dude's name, Davion? What was he like and as whole? Duh? How old was he? I don't know, whinny something? What did you like about him? Damn? Bit you real? Nosy? I don't know. I mean he seemed like he had a ship together. Chante, do you ever want something different for your life? Different? Different? How there's a powerful determination in you. I can see it. You remind me of myself when I was your age. But I can tell that you've been living on instinct and not in tuition. Huh. Look, your story has been predetermined for so long you can't see how free you really are. Um, you want to come again? You know, It's like in Roger Rabbit. You're not bad, You're just drawn that way. But you can break character and change your story at any point. Okay, listen, I see where you going with this. But Jessica Rabbit was fine as fun and that's who I want to be. But I mean all in, I guess I see what you're saying. Fantastic with a little time. I think you're really going to excel here. Just watch. I am super excited. Irene. You cool and all, but you sound white is funk right now. After that day, which had been the most pleasant day Chante had had in a long while, Irene could do no wrong. In our heroine's eyes, she began to see Irene as the older sister she never had. In essence, she idealized her. Still, there were a few things about Freedom House that Chanty found odd, but Irene always had a simple explanation for these occurrences. For example, when Chanta inquired why Irene was the only adult in the building, Irene chancer was simple and vain. Any house manager who can't handle ten girls should not be a house manager. And then there were the police officers who frequented the house. It didn't seem to have a purpose other than checking in on the girls, usually behind closed doors. Again, Irene had only glib commentary that didn't quite satisfy. These are members of our community who express an interest in seeing you girls succeed. Freedom House wouldn't exist without their support. Officer Corey has been asking about you. In fact, another time, Irene's office door had been left slightly Ajar Chante heard her on the phone speaking the language she couldn't place. But then she hadn't encountered any Russians in play on New Courts with blood seats night. When she turned and saw Chante at the doorway giving her a strange look, Irene shut the door. When Chantey later asked what language she was speaking, Irene feigned confusion. Didn't really sound like I was speaking in another language. Maybe I was mumbling. I usually do that when I'm on the phone with my mama. These explanations were wholly inadequate. In fact, one could characterize them as blatant lies. But our dear Chantey turned a blind eye to what was so clear. She did not suspect that the lovely woman before her, dressed in spotless white and radiant with smiles, would soon reveal herself to be a wretched and vile miscreant and likewise, Irene knew little of whom she deceived. Her pride so much like the angel Lucifers prevented her from seeing the hell fire that awaited her. Y'all we got the Lower Bottles episode far returning to sloop. Not bad, just drawn that black? Yeah uh? Will Packer a second ave producer James Opez I wasacutive producer, Look Here, Jack Leavy SACTI producer and direct Let's Go Dominique Love Time Yeah Now creator and writer, producer, Lay your Baby you need Hello, Hello, Whitney Fuller creative executive Michael kuth Burd co producer, Real Alexis recording mixer, Sown design, Ross Davis Audio consult Losing supervisor Jeff Forser, Music by Deaf Jeff the Boy, Joe Off, Tony Homer Score, Mongers Pays Ramsey Production Assistant Junior Rohne Production Assistant. You didn't main cast now you did? Hey? Yeah and the Alonza plays Blue Lick, Jordan Dick playing his poppets, Katia Fridley, Irene come on, Hey, Kelsey Grammer the narrator, come on, Ryandesson plays Rebecca. You didn't She's Shanna Watkins playing as Jocelyn pay, Teresa Celeste, Shante Thomas. You didn't shuts out, so it's Mission Town Venus baby, you know for real though sound by podcast Stage. Yeah, this has been a Will Packer Media production. I heart production and I am that boy. Drew down the want to know No Phoni, IM mac when don't to run man, Let's go that's an additional voice. Yeah, I want to know it. Let's go. Go by