Two and a half years earlier, Nina feels a strong desire to be a mother, and attends an information session about fostering and adoption. Hesitant but hopeful, Nina fills out an introductory form and meets with a couple who recently adopted twins. Afterward, Nina decides to start the application process.

As part of the adoption application process, a social worker named Claire Mawdsley meets with Nina at her home. As Claire examines the home and questions Nina, Nina lies about her family and romantic relationships to make herself seem like an ideal candidate.

One day, Maggie receives a letter from Social Services about the possibility of Nina adopting. Maggie feels that Nina is unfit to be a parent. Over dinner, she tries to talk Nina out of it, but Nina remains determined to move forward.