Summary

After running into one of her mother's old friends, Stephanie learns about a nicer daycare center for Mia that will accept her childcare grant. With Mia in a supportive environment, Stephanie feels better about being away from her and is able to take on more work. Alone in people's houses, she finds "evidence of the secret lives of people who seemed like they had it all" (Loc 2418). Every other Tuesday, she cleans Lori's House. Lori has Huntington's disease and is cared for by her husband, in addition to professional caregivers. One morning before cleaning Lori's house, the DVD player that Travis had bought Mia broke. This sent Stephanie into a downward spiral thinking about how she cannot afford to replace it as well as all the other things she cannot provide for her daughter. Stephanie comforts herself by repeating her mantra: "I...