Ep 2. Sexual Peeling

Daniel Holden is 19 when he is charged and convicted of the sexual assault and murder of his 16-year-old girlfriend. After 19 years on death row, new DNA evidence is discovered that casts doubt on his conviction, and he is released on a technicality. The show follows Daniel's re-entry into society as he adapts to his new surroundings while struggling to come to terms with his past.

In episode 2 of the first season, titled "Sexual Peeling," Daniel continues to adjust to life outside of prison. He meets with his probation officer and is given a variety of conditions that he must comply with, such as an 8 pm curfew and weekly drug tests. He also meets with a therapist, who he initially dismisses as being unhelpful. However, as the session progresses, he opens up about his experiences in prison and the trauma he has endured.

Meanwhile, Daniel's family is also dealing with the aftermath of his release. His sister, Amantha, is struggling to reconnect with him, as she feels that he is a stranger. His mother, Janet, is overjoyed to have him home, but is also dealing with the guilt of feeling like she hasn't done enough to help him over the years. His stepfather, Ted, is hesitant to fully welcome him back into the family, as he is worried about how his presence will affect his own political ambitions.

Daniel's relationship with his stepbrother, Ted Jr., is particularly complicated. Ted Jr. resents Daniel for the attention he has received from their parents and for the impact his conviction has had on their family's reputation. He is also jealous of Daniel's mysteriousness and the fact that he has had experiences that Ted Jr. can't even imagine.

In the midst of all this tension, Daniel is also trying to figure out how to move forward with his life. He takes a job at a tire shop and begins to develop a relationship with one of his coworkers, Tawney. However, he is still haunted by his past and uncertain about what the future holds for him.

"Sexual Peeling" is a thoughtful and introspective episode that focuses on the emotional fallout of Daniel's release. The characters are complex and nuanced, with each one grappling with their own unique set of emotions. The writing is subtle and nuanced, allowing the actors to deliver powerful performances that convey a tremendous amount of depth and complexity. Overall, the episode is a testament to the power of quiet storytelling and the importance of examining the human condition with empathy and understanding.