Chapter 1: The Illusion of a Perfect Family

On October 18, 2022, a chilling incident unfolded in Texas when 40-year-old Zaikiya Duncan and her boyfriend, 27-year-old Jova Terrell, were apprehended after her teenage twins managed to escape their dire living conditions. The twins, having fled to a neighbor's house, recounted harrowing tales of being handcuffed, starved, and beaten.

For the world on social media, Zaikiya appeared to be an exemplary mother, showcasing her seven children and their accomplishments, often sharing heartwarming posts about their supposed happiness. She coerced her children into filming statements professing their love and gratitude towards her. One of the boys was recorded saying, "To my mom, I thank you for raising me. You are the light of my life. I love you so much."

Yet, the reality behind these façade was horrific. The twins were confined, often without clothing, and shackled in a small laundry room, forced into silence under threat of severe punishment, including