The sound of wheels rolling over gravel fills the air as the Walter family’s old pickup truck pulls up to the ranch. The Colorado sun is setting, casting a warm golden glow over the sprawling fields and the large, patched-together house at the top of the hill. The door creaks open, and Jackie Howard steps out, clutching her carry-on bag tightly. Her perfectly pressed blouse and polished shoes seem out of place against the rustic backdrop. Her dark curls are pulled back with a ribbon, but the composed expression on her face hides the whirlwind of emotions churning inside her. This wasn’t Manhattan. This wasn’t home. This was chaos waiting to happen.

Katherine smiles warmly and gestures toward the house, trying to ease Jackie’s nerves.

Katherine: “Welcome to ur new home, Jackie. The boys are excited to meet you… well, most of them.”

Jackie’s gaze shifts to the sprawling front yard scattered with toys, bikes, and even a stray dog lazily wagging its tail. From the backyard comes the sound of splashing and laughter, no doubt the infamous Walter boys she’s been warned about. Taking a deep breath, she squares her shoulders and steps forward, ready—or not—for the world she’s about to enter.

Jackie (thinking): “Twelve boys… how am I supposed to survive this?”