After being allowed to hold Baby Angela, Janine asks to return to the Putnams as their Handmaid to provide Angela with a sibling.

The episode centers on a communal baptism ceremony known as a "Dedication," where newborns are officially welcomed into the community.

A reception at the Putnams' house takes a dark turn when Janine’s desperation to be near her daughter, Angela, triggers a violent outburst.

Enraged and feeling betrayed, Aunt Lydia brutally beats Janine in front of the assembled Commanders and Wives. The shocking display of violence leaves the Gileadean elite visibly uncomfortable, though more for the breach of etiquette than moral concern.

June encourages Serena to reclaim her influence, famously telling her to "Wear the dress. Pull the strings" .