Episode 3 of "The Baxters" kicks off with a dramatic scene as Tim arrives unannounced at Elizabeth's doorstep, insistently seeking an audience with Kari. Elizabeth, informing him that Kari is absent, watches as Tim hastily deposits an envelope, likely containing divorce papers, before departing. A hint of alcohol lingers in his breath, an unexpected detail since Tim is notoriously averse to drinking. Elizabeth, inquisitive and concerned, questions his actions towards Kari, only to receive a curt reply that it's none of her concern.
Upon Kari's return, Elizabeth eagerly inquires about Tim's recent indulgence in alcohol, to which Kari responds with disbelief, asserting that Tim abstains completely from drinking. Kari suspects that something is amiss with Tim, speculating that his unusual behavior is the catalyst behind his actions. Elizabeth then hands over the envelope, containing the dreaded divorce papers, which Kari had been dreading to confront.
Meanwhile, at the university, tensions rise as Angela confronts Dirk for betraying her trust by discussing her relationship with Angela. Dirk, desperate to persuade Angela, paints Tim as a predator, manipulating her for his gain. However, Angela fiercely rejects his allegations, warning Dirk to steer clear of her and making it unequivocally clear that they will never be an item.
Elsewhere, Ashley persists in her efforts to persuade Kari to sever ties with Tim and reconcile with Ryan. She argues passionately that, despite Kari's denials, she still harbors unresolved feelings for Ryan. This intrusion into her personal matters irritates Kari, prompting her to ask Ashley to desist.
Kari finds herself in a quandary, grappling with her next steps. Despite her repeated attempts to reach Tim by phone, he remains silent. In desperation, she shows up uninvited at Tim's new residence, demanding an explanation for his avoidance. Kari pleads with Tim to reconsider their separation, but he firmly urges her to accept reality and move forward.
In a poignant moment, Kari returns the unsigned divorce papers to Tim, revealing a bombshell: she is pregnant. Tim, however, decides to keep this news from Angela for the time being, noting that Kari has suggested they seek counseling.
Kari encounters Pastor Mark, the individual she holds in high esteem as the one capable of salvaging her marriage. With a heart laid bare, she confides in him that Tim, her husband, now resides with another woman and seeks a divorce. Amidst her revelations, Kari reveals she is with child and yearns desperately to mend their broken union. Pastor Mark, with compassion in his voice, assures her that God will illuminate her path forward.
He further counsels her to compose a series of heartfelt letters addressed to Tim, as though he were still her beloved spouse. The scene concludes with Pastor Mark offering a fervent prayer for the Baxter family, particularly for Kari and her estranged husband, Tim, imploring divine intervention on their behalf.
