The second installment of "Happy Face" commences with Melissa and Ivy's arrival in Texas, their destination marked by an urgent mission to meet Elijah, Heather's beleaguered boyfriend who sits wrongfully condemned on death row for her murder. They convene with Elijah's lawyer, Gabrielle, and unveil the truth, which ignites a spark of hope in her eyes, realizing at last the chance to exonerate him. Melissa, however, confronts the gravity of her impending role as a key witness, acknowledging that her testimony will unveil her secrets to the world, including her unaware children.
A memory resurfaces, depicting the somber moment when the police broke the news of Keith's arrest to Melissa's mother. That night, June, driven by a protective instinct, whisks the children into her car and embarks on a mission to acquire every newspaper in neighboring stores, determined to shield them from the scandal's glare.
Melissa dials Ben, who shares his excitement about a potential promotion to regional manager. Her eyes then catch sight of "Whiskey River," a bar that beckons her inside. There, amidst a bowl brimming with yellow guitar picks, she strikes up a conversation with the bartender's father, inquirying about her father's recognition, to no avail. The bartender, revealed as a former friend of Heather's, openly admits his anticipation of Elijah's execution.
Behind bars, Keith boasts to his fellow inmates about his impending TV debut, oblivious to the weight of his actions. Meanwhile, Hazel grapples with taunts from a girl mocking her unibrow. In a moment of impulse, she confides in Eva, a former friend, that her grandfather is a serial killer. Later, at a shop, Hazel selects a box of bikini wax but gets sidetracked by Josh, her crush, causing her to inadvertently walk out with the box tucked in her jacket, triggering the store's alarms.
As Ivy and her crew film near the site where Heather was discovered, Melissa senses Ivy's displeasure. Ivy, voicing her frustration, emphasizes that this story transcends Melissa's anonymity. Post-shoot, Elijah's sister, Joyce, arrives, enveloping Melissa and Ivy in a heartfelt embrace for their efforts to save Elijah. Amidst this emotional encounter, Melissa receives a call from Ben, informing her of Hazel's shoplifting ordeal. Amidst the conversation, Melissa's gaze falls upon a smiley face carved into a nearby tree, a symbol that seems to mirror the complexities of their intertwined lives.
In the early hours of the day, District Attorney Craig and Gabrielle arrive to inspect the ominous smiley face, with the DA displaying a notable skepticism. When Melissa inquires about the potential impact of Keith's daughter testifying, he responds by stating that individuals from their background often grapple with their personal demons, hinting that her testimony would swiftly crumble under scrutiny.
A poignant flashback unfolds, revealing a younger Melissa being mercilessly bullied and beaten by her fellow schoolmates, solely due to her father's infamous identity. Upon returning home, she begins to use makeup as a veil to conceal her painful bruises. Presently, Melissa and Ivy discover to their dismay that their scheduled prison visit to Elijah has been abruptly canceled. Melissa promptly recognizes the DA's hand in this, perceiving it as a refusal to acknowledge a mistake.
Back at school, Eva and her companion approach Hazel, with Eva's friend revealing her fanatical interest in true crime by branding herself a "murderino." She entices Hazel to meet them the following day after school.
Upon returning home, Melissa confides in Ben her contemplation of appearing on a television show, driven by her desire to prevent Elijah's demise. Overhearing their conversation, Hazel reveals her awareness of the entire situation. Compelled by Hazel's knowledge, Melissa decides to come clean with her son as well. Both Melissa and Hazel convince themselves that they must aid Elijah, but Ben stands firm in his opposition.
Eventually, Melissa steps into the spotlight on Dr. Greg's program. The episode commences with a harrowing clip of Keith confessing to Heather's murder. Melissa then bravely admits her identity as Keith's daughter, painting a vivid picture of their shared childhood memories. Meanwhile, Eva and her enthusiastic friend escort Hazel to a macabre murder museum. The museum's owner boasts of possessing artifacts linked to the notorious Happy Face Killer. When Hazel casually mentions having a drawing by Keith, the owner expresses interest in purchasing it, only to be met with Hazel's firm refusal, insisting that it is not for sale.
Ivy then gently nudges Greg, urging him to inquire of Melissa whether she ever ponders if she might mirror her father's traits. Greg, taking the cue, starts delicately probing Melissa on this matter, until her eyes well up with tears and she confesses her deep-seated fear of possessing that very aspect within her. Dr. Greg guides her through her emotions with compassion, and in a moment of profound release, she acknowledges that she deserves a joyful life and that she will never emulate her father's footsteps. In the climactic scene of Happy Face Episode 2, a passerby catches sight of the newspaper headline detailing Keith's ninth victim, alongside the segment featuring Melissa.
