In the third episode, a 1980 flashback reveals that Rebecca struggled to bond with the adopted baby initially named Kyle, secretly tracked down birth father William, and struck a deal — he disappears from Randall's life, she keeps his existence hidden. William's parting contribution was the name Randall itself, drawn from his favorite poet. In the present, Rebecca and Miguel's unannounced visit nearly drives William out of the house, but Randall forces a specialist appointment that confirms the cancer is terminal. Meanwhile, Kate performs publicly for the first time thanks to Toby, then abandons the moment to rescue Kevin — who responds by cutting her loose so she can build her own life.

This episode establishes the central deception that will run through the series: Randall is constructing a relationship with William and advocating for his ...