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A listener note, this episode contains depictions of child abuse

and is not suitable for all audiences.

To protect their privacy, we have changed the names of

some children involved in this story. It's spring 1933 in downtown Los Angeles, California.

41-year-old Georgia Tan strides across the cathedral-like lobby of the Biltmore Hotel,

bellhop's wheel gleaming luggage carts toward the elevators, while guests sip cocktails

in plush armchairs.

Tan loves it here. She's always seen herself as one of life's winners, and staying in an

iconic hotel like the Biltmore feels right to her. But unlike the other more glamorous women here,

Tan wears austere black pants and a simple blouse. She is also carrying a baby.

She makes her way across the lobby to a well-dressed couple in their early 40s,

sitting stiffly beside an empty stroller.

Mr. and Mrs. Chapman?

Tan watches as Mr. Chapman rises, extending his hand.

Yes, that's us. You must be Miss Tan?

Yes, it's a pleasure. And this is your son.

Tan gently shifts the sleeping infant in her arms to face the couple.

Mrs. Chapman presses her hand to her mouth as tears well in her eyes.

...