In the seventh episode of "The Baxters," a captivating leap of five years unfolds, revealing a somewhat reconciled Kari and Tim. They continue to attend weekly therapy sessions, fervently hoping to enhance their mutual understanding and reasoning skills. During these intimate exchanges with their therapist, Kari and Tim disclose that Ryan and Angela have exited their lives, each forging ahead in their individual journeys. Elsewhere, Elizabeth and Duke find themselves engrossed in conversation about Colton Ashford, whose tragic death in a car accident occurred a couple of years prior. The Baxter family, maintaining a cherished tradition, plans to host a memorial service in Colton's honor, just as they do every year to keep his memory alive.
Meanwhile, Angela's abrupt departure from the university, driven by her desire to sever ties with Tim, casts a shadow over the family. This turn of events deeply disturbs Dirk, who places the blame squarely on Tim's shoulders for Angela's exit. Desperate to reconnect with Angela, Dirk faces advice from his own therapist to exercise patience, allowing Angela the crucial time she needs to grieve and navigate the complexities she is enduring.
Elsewhere, Erica orchestrates a clever plan, convincing Ashley to attend church and participate in its games and events. Initially hesitant, Ashley agrees but sets a boundary: she will leave the moment anyone utters a prayer. However, this was precisely Erica's strategy, aiming to facilitate an opportunity for Ashley to spend time with Brandon, the charming fireman who had recently fixed her air conditioner. To Luke's astonishment, Ashley, who never attends such events or participates in religious rituals, is present. The Baxter family, deeply religious, stands in stark contrast to Ashley, whose aversion to such practices may hint at an unspoken past, perhaps related to her experiences in Paris. Nevertheless, Ashley made it clear to Brandon that he should not mistake her for a devout believer.
Brandon inquires eagerly about the recent events in Paris, only to have Ashley swiftly divert the conversation. Unfortunately, her demeanor takes a sudden turn for the worse when she spots a game titled "Ashford-Dash," causing her to storm off in a huff.
Meanwhile, at the house, Elizabeth reaches out to Lilian with an urgent request, imploring her to contact her the moment she returns to town. It transpires that Lilian is none other than Colton's mother, who, grief-stricken by her son's passing, had relocated away from their shared home.
Elsewhere, a confrontation brews as Dirk confronts Tim with a fiery accusation, lambasting him for exploiting Angela and then callously discarding her. Tim retorts defiantly, asserting that it is none of Dirk's concern, and even goes so far as to threaten to summon security if Dirk doesn't back down. Finally, forced into submission by Tim's stance, Dirk reluctantly retreats.
