Episode 4 of "The Baxters" kicks off with a bombshell as Tim confides in Angela that Kari is carrying his baby, revealing his intention to briefly reunite with her to tie up loose ends. Angela's heart sinks, tears streaming down her cheeks as she realizes she's been relegated to the backdrop of Tim's life. Despite his assurances that it's just a fleeting visit, the words have already etched a wound too deep for Tim to erase. In an attempt to soothe her, Tim's efforts fall flat, and Angela storms off in a fit of emotional turmoil.
Elsewhere, Luke finds himself not just picking up boxes but also scoring a date at Kari's shop, courtesy of Reagan Decker, her devoutly religious employee and confidante. The two share a bond that extends to their church pews, making their connection all the more intriguing.
Meanwhile, remember Dirk? The man who blew the whistle on Tim's betrayal to Kira is also the poor soul pining away for Angela, despite her repeated, unambiguous rejections. In a poignant scene, Dirk unburdens himself to his college therapist, sharing his hobbies and the deluded belief that Angela harbors feelings for him. Caught in a bubble of self-illusion, he refuses to see the reality of Angela's disinterest.
Back at her parents' abode, Kari stumbles upon relics from her early married days, an era marked by her first pregnancy. Seeking solace and a distraction, she accepts Ryan's invitation to cast her worries away with a tranquil fishing trip.
As they reminisce about the cherished moments they've shared, both in the present and the past, Ryan, a former NFL luminary whose promising career was abruptly halted by a devastating spinal injury, subtly conveys his lingering affection and heartfelt desire for a reconciliation. With a tender hint, he remarks that fate, through the grace of the lord, has bestowed upon them a second chance.
The narrative takes a captivating turn when Ryan, leaning in close, plants a kiss on Kari's lips, which she, rather than resisting, warmly returns. Meanwhile, Tim arrives back at their abode and learns from Elizabeth that Kari is out with her friends. He entrusts Elizabeth with a message for Kari, informing her that he awaits her return at their home.
While patiently sitting and mending the iconic Baxter family chair, a cherished heirloom, Tim's thoughts are interrupted by the sight of Kari entering their home, accompanied by Ryan. Upon glimpsing Tim, who sits eagerly awaiting her return, it becomes evident that this unexpected encounter will undoubtedly weave a more intricate and complicated tapestry in the already delicate dynamics between Kari and Tim.
