When Derek's health takes a turn for the worse, Jimmy helps Liz cope. Meg comes clean with Paul. Gaby makes progress with Maya.
An EKG reveals Derek needs emergency surgery. He's at risk of a heart attack. That immediately sends the narrative into an intense focus. Everyone has the quick impulse to go to the hospital and provide moral support. There is very little for them to actually do there. It's special when Derek takes a moment so Liz can truly hear him declare his love. It's so powerful and moving. It comes at the end of him needing to tell her everything of importance. They already share so much. They understand each other perfectly. Liz utilizes her husband to provide reassurance or disappointment. He's naturally skilled. The way he conveys emotions is pivotal. That's an incredible gift. And now, he's faced with his own mortality. It comes amidst tension with Matthew. Liz and Derek had to bribe their son to go to therapy. Even then, Jimmy doesn't make any meaningful progress. He's in the middle of calling out Liz's behavior and emotional manipulation when the news about Derek comes. It puts everything into perspective. Something bad has the potential of happening. That opens the door for everyone to evaluate what matters. That in turn prompts surprising responses. These characters have to be willing to let their loved ones surprise them. They can't fear the worst. That would only confine them to their narrow views of the world.
Brian didn't tell his father about Sutton. He has a history of being disappointed whenever sharing big and personal news with Kip. That was previously on display during his wedding. Another massive life change has occurred. Kip deserves the dignity to know what's going on. Brian can't lie either. That's a tactic Jimmy uses to ease his fears before ripping the bandaid. This is joyous news. It should be celebrated. The past clouds Brian's judgment. Just because Kip has let him down before doesn't mean he will continually do so. He's beaming with pride upon learning he's a grandfather. That creates the potential for a more meaningful relationship between father and son to occur. Similarly, Meg has to confide in Paul about her separation from Dave. She fears he won't be able to contain his enthusiasm. She can't process all the contradictory emotions she's feeling about this development. She needs this moment to be about her. Paul would take it as a victory for his opinion. That's not what happens. He supports her no matter what decision she makes. She opts for counseling. Sleeping with Jimmy was complicated. He makes it awkward. It's also clarifying. He's been good with advice lately. He needs that encouragement to be bold with his actions once more.
Jimmy agrees to see Matthew as a patient. He needs to be blunt in pointing out how oblivious the young adult has been. He can't continue to live this way. He has to take responsibility for his own actions. He also has to show up for his parents when they need him. Liz was embarrassed by her son. Those words hurt. She's tried to make up for them. Matthew has to be worthy of that affection too. They can easily come together as a family. They have a reason to do so. Liz ensures everything's settled for Derek. He will be well taken care of during his recovery. Liz needs someone looking out for her as well. At first, that's Jimmy. He asks what she needs and doesn't settle for a declaration of being fine. He digs deeper. He forces Matthew to act. Matthew is a lot like his mother when he chooses to step up. Their relationship mends itself. It took potential tragedy to act. The ensemble celebrates. Yet the story chooses to focus on Maya. She's become a prominent part of the narrative. She reaches out to Gaby for friendship. Gaby introduces her to her collection of freaks. That's good enough for a few moments. It's not reassuring late at night. Gaby can't provide everything. Maya's in crisis. Gaby is there for her. That also depends on being aware of everything that's happening. That's hard to admit when so much is going on elsewhere that seems more important.
