Veda’s deep-seated hatred for the "ordinariness" of Glendale and Mildred’s service-oriented work highlights the show's focus on class mobility and social aspiration.
Mildred's obsession with earning Veda’s respect leads to an abusive cycle where she repeatedly sacrifices her own happiness for a daughter who loathes her. Part 4Mildred Pierce : Season 1 Episode 4
Stung by the rejection, Veda begins a relationship with a wealthy "society loafer," Sammy Forrester . Sammy’s mother confronts Mildred with allegations of a pregnancy, leading to a blackmail scheme by Veda to extract money from the Forrester family. Part 4Mildred Pierce : Season 1 Episode 4