Episode 8 of The Bear Season 3 kicks off with Natalie navigating a congested traffic jam, her labor pains pulsating through her body. Frustrated by the lack of response from The Bear's staff, she turns to her mother, DD, for support. DD arrives, accompanied by her usual entourage, and Natalie begs her to maintain a sense of calm.
At the hospital, DD engages in a conversation with the nurse about the wonders of motherhood. When Natalie declares her intention to forego an epidural, DD argues fervently for its benefits. However, Natalie ultimately expresses gratitude for DD's presence, and DD reciprocates, appreciating Natalie's request for her assistance.
As Natalie's first contraction hits, DD stands by her side, guiding her through the pain. DD then reminisces about the birth of Michael, sharing the story of how she walked herself to the hospital during her labor. She recalls the moment of his arrival, twisted yet ultimately smoothly emerging into the world.
Natalie inquiries about Carmy's birth, prompting DD to recall a father seeking a sedative and a lengthy labor for the young Carmy. As another contraction grips Natalie, DD once again offers her support. She briefly steps out to fetch Natalie some ice chips, returning just as another wave of pain engulfs her daughter. The two share a moment of respite, enjoying the cool respite of the ice chips.
The doctor enters, informing Natalie that the birth is still some time away. Natalie considers oxytocin to hasten the process, even briefly entertaining the idea of an epidural. As DD tenderly comforts Natalie, Natalie confesses her concern that DD's presence might frighten her unborn child, reminiscent of her own childhood fears.
Natalie then unburdens herself, sharing her anxieties and confessing how she would inflict harm on herself to alleviate DD's concerns. Her sole desire is for her daughter's well-being and to be a stellar mother, to which DD assures her she will undoubtedly become. As another contraction ripples through Natalie's body, DD attends to her with ice chips and embraces her warmly. Amidst the tension, they find humor in the oddity of the moment, sharing a laugh.
Curious, Natalie inquiries about DD's own childbirth experience. DD recounts that it was a few days before her due date, and her husband was absent. She retired early, only to be awakened by a vivid dream of a colossal yet captivating fish tank in a city draped in grey hues. Despite its appearance of imminent rupture, she felt no dread. Awakening to the realization that her waters had broken, she hastened to the hospital. There, Uncle Jimmy's first wife greeted her, playing a song that accompanied the arrival of Natalie into the world. DD gazes tenderly at Natalie, declaring her beauty. Natalie inquiries about the song, and DD plays 'Baby, I Love You' by the Ramones.
At that moment, Pete enters the room, embracing Natalie, allowing DD to quietly withdraw. Pete offers his gratitude to DD with a hug before returning to Natalie's side. DD departs, only to be joined later by the Fak brothers in the waiting room. They remind her that by the end of Episode 8 of The Bear Season 3, she will embark on a new journey as a grandmother.
