As Episode 8 of "The Baxters" unfolds, the scene is set on Thanksgiving, with the Baxter family converging at their home to savor John's renowned turkey and Elizabeth's mouthwatering pie. Meanwhile, Luke, Elizabeth, and Reagan find themselves in the church, lending a helping hand to the town's newest resident, Pastor Marina. Reagan reassures her with confidence, stating that adjusting to the town will be a breeze, given the wonderful and supportive community they have. However, Reagan harbors apprehensions about meeting Erin and Brooke, fearing their disapproval of Marina.
Elsewhere, Ashley struggles to shed the haunting memories of Colton's demise, which have resurfaced after her recent visit to the church. Meanwhile, Tim is bursting with excitement to reveal the gender of his and Kari's baby to everyone. But Kari, still grappling with the loss of her previous child, harbors reservations. Perhaps this is the reason behind her reluctance to raise everyone's hopes. When Tim and Kari arrive at the house, it seems evident that John and Elizabeth haven't forgiven Tim yet. Tim apologizes once more, and the couple acknowledges his humility and efforts to mend his marriage.
The family gathers around the dining table, but Ashley is conspicuously absent. As always, Ashley arrives a little late, prompting Luke to tease her, remarking that it was kind of her to fit the family into her rigid schedule. Elizabeth adds her two cents, urging Ashley to be more responsible and not be tardy everywhere. She further suggests that Ashley find a job, emphasizing that the settlement money won't last forever.
Elizabeth firmly believes that securing employment for Ashley will instill greater discipline and responsibility within her, ultimately benefiting both Ashley and her own son. Yet, these propositions fail to resonate well with Ashley, who contends that her family is prejudiced against her. Ashley reaches her breaking point when Elizabeth announces to everyone that she has reached out to Lilian for assistance in achieving closure and moving past the heart-wrenching loss of Colton. Elizabeth further elaborates her plan to transform the church's storage room into a nursery, expressing hope that Lilian will collaborate with her to bring this vision to life. In response, Ashley pleads with her mother to cease these endeavors.
It transpires that Ashley harbors a sense of self-blame for Colton's demise, as she was behind the wheel on that fateful day. Years prior, while driving Colton home, a drunk driver slammed into their car, resulting in Colton's tragic death. Seeking solace, Ashley embarks on a walk and chance encounters Ryan, who offers heartfelt comfort, assuring her that she can share her innermost thoughts with him, anytime, without reservation.
Their conversation unexpectedly culminates in a kiss, leaving both of them feeling awkward and unsettled. Ryan, recognizing the discomfort, takes his leave. Elsewhere, Kira confides in her sister, voicing her fears for her unborn child and acknowledging her lack of strength to endure another miscarriage.
