Kim had once interned with Baer, yearning for paternal affection. She found solace in his embrace, even removing her top for what she described as a special, parental experience. Reflecting later, she recognized it as grooming. This happened again until a call from her daughter, Penelope, broke the hold she was under.

Kim heard similar stories from other women, learning about Baer’s ‘naked holding’ sessions. Inge Jechart, a physicist and member from 2005, shared her own experiences. She felt emotional relief when held by Baer but became uncomfortable when it escalated to fondling. Baer told her not to discuss these events with anyone, adding secrecy to the already troubling behavior.

“Our community was important to me, and I didn’t want it to blow up, so I kept silent,” said Inge, although unaware of younger women involved.

In 2019, Kim emailed Baer, condemning his actions with her daughter and highlighting other victims. Baer denied these claims, stating they were false and dismissing concerns from others who reached out.

Veena, Penelope, and their mother contacted police in Rome, but lack of evidence hindered any legal action. Their Mormon congregations were also informed, leading to church proceedings. Penelope and Veena eventually filed suits in Georgia, which settled for $12,000 each.

Finding strength in education, Veena left Real Love, pursued a new path, and chronicled her experience with the memoir, ‘The True Happiness Company.’ Her book addresses the profound emotional impact and reflects on her life under Baer’s influence, hoping to prevent others from facing similar situations.

If you or someone you know needs support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or visit SpeakingOfSuicide.com/resources.