The Secret Is Born
Joanie was only allowed to stay with them if she let Don and Mary Jane raise the baby as their own. In order to avoid bringing shame upon their family, Joanie would be forced to act as Steve’s sister for the rest of his life. Don and Mary Jane swore the rest of Steve’s siblings to secrecy.
Hearing Her Out
Joanie assured Steve that she wanted to keep him—she wanted to be his mom—but she couldn't survive without the help of Don and Mary Jane. When Joanie was done speaking, Steve didn’t say anything for a while. He believed most of what she had told him, but it was hard for him to fully accept it.