A Second Chance. Jen and Brad.

Chapter 45, "An Escape to Missouri".

Disclaimer : This chapter contains sexually explicit content and mentions substance abuse.

The next day :

In her trailer, Jen is getting her hair and makeup done, as they're filming for the Morning Show today.

Angela : Not picking up, huh?

Jen : What?

Angela : Brad.

Angela looks down on her phone, as she's trying to call Brad since he never texted her back yesterday.

Jen : Oh, no. He's probably in the shower or something.

Angela : Right.

Jen : I'll try again, maybe his phone's on mute.

Jen presses call again, crossing her fingers under the table.

Brad : Hey.

He answers the phone with a hoarse sound, as he'a still in bed.

Jen : Hey...

Turning around to face the crew, she signals for them to leave, as she knows Brad probably won't want them eavesdropping on their conversation.

Jen : Guys, could you leave me alone for a minute?

Chris : Sure.

They walk out the door of the trailer, leaving Jen alone on the phone with a hungover Brad.

Jen : Brad? Are you still there?

Brad : Yeah.

Looking down on the floor, seeing the empty bottle and his knocked over glass, he sighs.

Jen : Are you alright?

Brad : Well... you know. I'm a little better.

Jen : Will you be home today?

Brad : Uhm, yeah I...

Jen : I really wanna be there for you right now, Brad.

Brad : I know.

Jen : I know you think you can deal with this on your own, but...

He listens closely to what she's saying, realizing that he obviously can't after his setback last night.

Jen : I love you and I just... I don't want you to carry this alone.

A few seconds go by, before he clears his throat and answers her.

Brad : I'll come home. When are you finished?

Jen : Around 7.

Brad : Do you want me to pick you up?

Jen : Oh, you don't have to, I've already got my driver scheduled.

Brad : Okay.

Jen : Just wait for me at home, alright?

Brad : I will.

At Jen's house, a few hours later :

Brad : Calm down, mom.

Jane : No, I won't calm down. The fact that you won't see your own children more than... god knows how many days a month...

Brad : Mom.

Jane : And I will barely get to see my grandchildren either...

Brad walks through the door of Jen's house, while talking to his mom, Jane, on the phone.

Brad : It's gonna be alright.

Jane : You've got to figure this out sweetie, I really don't wanna lose my grandkids.