Divorce, a subject often explored in television, thrives on the complexities of human relationships. While Girlfriends’ Guide to Divorce presents glamorous characters and scenarios, the underlying themes resonate with many who have experienced or been touched by divorce. This episode dives deep into the messy aftermath of separation, exploring the evolving dynamics between Abby, her ex-husband Jake, and his younger girlfriend, Becca, all while tackling unexpected crises.
The Unexpected Connection: Abby and Becca
The most compelling relationship to watch unfold in this episode is undoubtedly the one between Abby and Becca Riley. Despite limited screen time together, their connection, linked primarily through Jake, is fraught with complexities. What does a young actress like Becca know about divorce? Surprisingly, a lot. The show cleverly uses her character to highlight how divorce impacts everyone, regardless of age or experience. Becca’s situation reflects the reality that divorce doesn’t discriminate; it can enter anyone’s life unexpectedly.
Both Abby and Becca are trying their best in a difficult situation, making mistakes along the way, but ultimately remaining characters that viewers can root for. They showcase a willingness to navigate the challenges with grace and understanding, even when faced with Jake’s less-than-stellar decisions.
Cracks in the Foundation: Metaphors and Morning-After Pills
This episode cleverly employs two metaphors revolving around Lilly’s upcoming birthday. The first, a literal crack in the foundation of Abby and Jake’s house, symbolizes the deep-seated issues within their relationship. This crack, requiring a $20,000 retaining wall to fix, mirrors the significant effort and expense required to repair the damage caused by their separation.
The second metaphor emerges when Abby finds herself at her gynecologist’s office, admitting to unprotected sex with Jake. The doctor’s judgmental stare underscores the awkward reality they face as soon-to-be divorcées who have rekindled their physical intimacy. Jake’s question, “Do you and your girlfriend use protection,” highlights the confusing emotional and practical landscape they now inhabit. The discovery of Abby’s situation leads to a prescription for the morning-after pill, a stark reminder of the unplanned consequences of their actions.
The Birthday Party Disaster: Vodka Tampons and Teenage Chaos
Lilly’s 14th birthday party serves as the backdrop for further drama. Lilly’s excitement about inviting Jake’s girlfriend, Becca, to her party throws Abby into a tailspin. As Abby later laments, “Jake’s embryo Becca invited herself to Lilly’s birthday party…and he just stood there, staring dead-eyed like the shark in Jaws.”
Abby worries that the last memory Lilly will have of her childhood home will be associated with Becca. However, Abby swallows her discomfort and invites Becca, determined not to ruin her daughter’s special day. The party takes a disastrous turn when Abby discovers that the teenage guests have soaked tampons in vodka, leading to a chaotic scene of “vaginally drunk” teenagers. The sheer absurdity of the situation provides a darkly comedic moment, highlighting the challenges of parenting teenagers in the midst of personal turmoil.
Jake’s Betrayal and Becca’s Revelation
Amidst the chaos, Jake’s actions further complicate matters. While searching for alcohol, Becca discovers Abby’s unopened morning-after pill and later finds an Uber receipt from the night he disappeared from their shaman retreat. Confronted with the evidence, Jake struggles to admit that he slept with Abby. This betrayal leads Becca to end their relationship, recognizing that Jake is not emotionally ready to fully commit to her. Becca was busy building a foundation for their future together, and Jake could barely see through the cracks in his own life.
Moving Forward: Hope and Uncertainty
While Jake and Becca’s relationship crumbles, Lyla’s situation offers a glimmer of hope. She calls Phoebe to announce that she’s taken her children to Portland and convinced Dave to join them, at least temporarily. This news provides a sense of optimism amidst the prevailing chaos.
The episode concludes with Abby contemplating her unopened morning-after pill, leaving her future uncertain. The question of whether she will choose to have another child with her ex-husband hangs in the balance, adding another layer of complexity to her already complicated life.
Key Takeaways:
- Divorce impacts everyone: The show highlights how divorce affects not only the individuals directly involved but also their families and friends.
- Relationships are complex: The dynamics between Abby, Jake, and Becca illustrate the challenges of navigating relationships after divorce.
- Unexpected events can derail even the best-laid plans: The vodka tampon incident and Abby’s potential pregnancy underscore the unpredictable nature of life.
- Hope can emerge from chaos: Lyla’s decision to move to Portland offers a sense of optimism for the future.
- Honesty is crucial: Jake’s inability to be honest with Becca ultimately leads to the end of their relationship.
