Abby is a 36-year-old successful advertising executive at Stewart Advertising who possesses a substantial trust fund and a loving marriage. Despite her professional achievements and wealth, she is struggling with deep feelings of inadequacy and grief due to years of unsuccessful fertility treatments and a recently failed adoption attempt. Her overwhelming desire to become a mother drives her to quickly accept a surrogacy offer from her assistant.

Monica is Abby's 23-year-old personal assistant at Stewart Advertising, hired after her predecessor suffered a workplace injury. Highly intelligent, mathematically gifted, and exceptionally efficient, she bears a striking physical resemblance to a younger Abby. She presents herself as modest and altruistic, offering to carry a child for the Adlers in exchange for graduate school tuition.

Sam is a handsome, dependable mathematics professor and Abby's husband of eight years. Unpretentious and uninterested in designer fashion or grooming products, he is perceived by his wife as a stabilizing, authentic presence. He is initially skeptical of the surrogacy arrangement, preferring the idea of adopting an older child, but ultimately agrees to support Abby's dream of raising a newborn.

Denise is the formidable chief marketing officer at Stewart Advertising and Abby's boss. With her ice-blue eyes and designer clothing, she projects an intimidating, career-focused persona. She previously served as a mentor to Abby, teaching her how to manage the corporate world, but views motherhood as a barrier to professional success.

Gertie is an older woman who previously worked as Abby's personal assistant at the advertising firm. Known for bringing homemade cookies to the office, she possessed a warm, maternal demeanor but lacked technological efficiency. Her departure due to a broken hip paved the way for Monica to take over the role.

Shelley is Abby's best friend and a protective confidant in both her personal and professional life. She is perceptive and cautious, frequently serving as a sounding board for Abby's anxieties. Shelley is quick to point out potential red flags regarding the surrogacy arrangement that Abby is too eager to ignore.

Jed is a marketing executive for Cuddles, a major baby product manufacturer. He works closely with Stewart Advertising to develop campaigns for his company's diapers and baby food, demanding idealized imagery to sell his products.

Dr. Wong is the medical professional overseeing Monica's pregnancy. She manages the complex dynamics between the surrogate and the intended parents during medical consultations, occasionally struggling to keep track of who is who.