A Spool of Blue Thread

Denny briefly discusses insomnia with Abby. Later, Nora and Abby discuss making space for Denny, with Abby admitting that she’s afraid of Denny snooping in her things. Nora prepares steaks and succotash for dinner, though she willingly makes macaroni and cheese during the meal because the kids want something different. Abby finds it strange that the kids would be so hard on their mother, but Red reminds her that it’s how things are done “these days.” Red begins complaining about a customer, and when Denny suggests how he would’ve handled the situation, Red critiques his work ethic, causing everyone to become tense. They try thanking Nora for dinner, but she reminds them that Denny cooked the steaks. Though he hasn’t finished eating, Denny excuses himself to play with the grandchildren.

Denny and Nora argue about dinner the following day. Nora wins, though Denny gets a dig in by asking Stem if he thinks he married his mother. Stem simply asks, “Which mother?”—confusing and angering Denny. Stem then says Nora has put up with a lot by relocating, annoying Abby. The next day, Denny asks to borrow Abby’s computer, but she’s hesitant. He takes offense, but she chides him for moving back in like the others.