Content Warning: This section of the guide discusses miscarriage, sexual assault (of characters who are minors), and racism.

Maternal bonds take various forms in The House of Eve. Despite their tense relationship, when Ruby gives birth to Grace (Wilhelmina), it is her mother Inez whom she wants, not her more caring Grandma Nene or Aunt Marie. In fact, Inez does not even know that Ruby is pregnant and giving birth. This maternal bond (or lack thereof) is again shown when Ruby goes to Inez’s home after her discharge from the House of Magdalene. Inez has hurt her repeatedly, but she still feels drawn to her. Despite her lack of affection for Ruby, Inez feels differently about her new baby, Lena. Lena provides security in a way that Ruby never could, as Lena’s father, Leap, stays by Inez. Inez relies on Leap, as predatory as he is, to survive—even if he and past boyfriends have exhibited a pattern of sexualizing Ruby. To Inez, Lena doesn’t pose a threat the way Ruby does, so she is able to love Lena. As for Ruby’s once partner, Shimmy, his relationship with his mother, Mrs. Shapiro, is controlling. While Shimmy doesn’t harbor or exhibit intentional racism, his mother does.