This page gathers all the missing scenes from Season 23, scenes that take place between canon episodes, sometimes within them, and are meant to deepen what remains unseen on screen. These missing scenes are designed to accompany the canon narrative and to gradually expand the story as it unfolds.
New scenes will be added progressively, following the same chronology as the aired episodes.
Reading Guide
The Missing Scenes are part of a continuous reading experience that fills the emotional and narrative spaces left between what we saw on screen.
They are numbered according to the canon episode they follow.
For example, Missing Scene 23.1.1 takes place after Episode 23Ă—01.
Below, you’ll find a chronological timeline listing all the missing scenes in order, allowing you to locate any scene within the season’s progression.
The timeline navigation anchors point to canon episodes.
Clicking on an episode title will take you directly to its recap section, which is immediately followed by the Missing Scenes that unfold after it.
From there, you can jump directly to a specific point in the season or simply scroll down and experience the story as it unfolds.
This structure allows you to experience Season 23 as an extended story, without rewriting or altering canon — only expanding what happens in between.
Episodes not mentioned here either do not include Jo or Link scenes, or do not add new layers to their story, and are therefore not part of this collection.
For a more immersive reading experience
- Each canon episode is introduced with a gallery of screenshots highlighting key moments, helping re-establish the emotional context before the Missing Scenes expand what happens next.
- A Jolink Stories Spotify playlist (the one that accompanied the writing of these scenes) is also available to set the emotional tone, if you wish to listen while reading. Open the full playlist on Spotify
Timeline
The timeline is a guide. The continuous story begins below. ↓
Episode 23×01 — “Collide” (Canon)
Jo and Link start their morning at home, where Jo comes across a box of painful reminders of her traumatic childbirth. At Grey Sloan, a plane collision sends the hospital into emergency mode. While helping in the ER, Jo witnesses an emergency thoracotomy that triggers her birth trauma, leaving her visibly shaken. Meanwhile, Link performs a successful spinal fusion on a pilot who ultimately dies. Later, Jo brushes off Link’s concern when he notices something is wrong. That night, Link secretly takes pain medication from Jo’s box before telling her about his patient’s death. Jo then reveals that she’s quit her job.
Bonus Scenes — Within Episode 23×01
Episode 23×02 — “Slippin’ and Slidin’” (Canon)
A week after quitting her job, Jo throws herself into being a stay-at-home mom, volunteering to sew school costumes and preparing meals ahead of time. When Amelia and Toni stop by, a series of domestic mishaps leaves Jo overwhelmed and in tears. She admits she’s desperately trying to make up for the time lost with her children after the twins’ birth. Amelia and Toni reassure her that motherhood isn’t about being perfect. Meanwhile, Link treats a college student seriously injured during a hazing incident.
Bonus Scenes — Within Episode 23×02
TO BE CONTINUED
Read the continuous story ↓
Episode 23×01 — “Collide” (Canon)
Jo and Link begin the morning in their new home. Link admires Jo dressed up for the hospital’s VIP floor inauguration and playfully propositions her, but she’s distracted by the search for Luna’s missing stuffed puppy, Bubble.
While unpacking, Jo discovers her “I almost died” box, filled with reminders of her traumatic childbirth. She tells Link that her therapist suggested getting rid of anything that brings back those memories, and he offers to dispose of the box for her.
At Grey Sloan, they attend the inauguration of the new Olympic Floor, where Link jokes that the Seahawks will love the VIP facilities, while Jo points out the espresso machine. The ceremony is interrupted by news of a collision between two planes at the airport, sending the hospital into emergency mode.
Jo is sent from OB to help in the overwhelmed ER. While retrieving supplies from the OR, she finds herself in an elevator with Bailey, Winston, and Jules, who are transporting Larry Turner, the air traffic controller involved in the collision. When Larry suddenly crashes, the team performs an emergency thoracotomy. The sight of his open chest and severe bleeding triggers Jo’s birth trauma. Overwhelmed and on the verge of fainting, she leaves the elevator as soon as the doors open.
Meanwhile, Link continues to experience shoulder pain and stiffness following the explosion. He joins Amelia in treating Bree Wong, one of the pilots, who has suffered a catastrophic cervical spine injury, and performs a flawless spinal fusion.
Later, Link invites Jo to dinner at Nicoletti’s to celebrate the successful surgery. She agrees, on the condition that she gets her own garlic bread. But Jo is visibly shaken by what happened in the elevator, and Link notices something is wrong. When he asks if she’s okay, she brushes off his concern, insisting she’s just hungry.
That night, back home, Link secretly takes a bottle of pain medication from Jo’s birth-trauma box and quickly hides it when she enters the room. He tells her that his spinal fusion patient ultimately died. Jo then drops a bombshell of her own: she’s quit her job.
Missing Scenes Batch 23.1
-
23.1.B1 – From Morning Chaos to Stolen Moments Before the Inauguration
PART I — MORNING CHAOS
INT. JO AND LINK'S HOUSE — MORNING
Jo is crouched beside an open moving box, shifting a few kitchen towels aside.
She pulls out a small stuffed puppy.
JO
Found it.
Link looks over from the hallway.
LINK
Good. Now can we find the kids?
Jo gets to her feet, Bubble in her hand.
She gives him an amused look as she passes.
JO
One thing at a time.
She heads upstairs.
Link turns back toward the entrance, pulling his car keys from his pocket.
Children's jackets hang on the hooks above the entrance bench, a school backpack wedged between them. One small sneaker lies abandoned on the floor.
LINK
Scout! Luna!
Time to go.
No answer.
He checks his watch.
LINK (CONT'D)
Guys, come on. We’re leaving!
SCOUT (O.S.)
I can't find my shoe!
Link looks down.
The sneaker is right beside his foot.
LINK
It’s right here!
He waits a moment.
Nothing.
Link looks toward the stairs.
LINK (CONT'D)
Scout?
Still no answer.
He exhales, already knowing how this is going to go.
He slips his car keys into his pocket and heads upstairs.
INT. JO AND LINK'S HOUSE — UPSTAIRS — CONTINUOUS
Luna sits on the floor outside the nursery, struggling to close her backpack.
Jo approaches.
JO
Look who I found.
Luna looks up, her face lighting up.
LUNA
Bubble!
She reaches for the stuffed puppy and hugs him tightly.
LUNA (CONT’D)
Where was he?
JO
Hiding in one of the kitchen boxes.
LUNA
Scout put him there.
JO
I don’t think he did, honey.
Luna doesn't look convinced.
Jo crouches beside her and notices the open backpack, stuffed almost to bursting.
JO
Luna, how many books did you put in here?
LUNA
Three.
Jo pulls out one book.
Then another.
And another.
And another.
She finds a fifth.
JO
Five.
LUNA
That one’s for my teacher.
Jo smiles.
JO
You have plenty of books at school, sweetheart.
LUNA
But these are mine.
Jo looks at her.
JO
I know. And they'll be here when you get home.
She puts the book for Luna's teacher back into the backpack and zips it closed.
LUNA
Can I take Bubble?
JO
Not today, honey. Come on, give him a kiss. You'll see him tonight.
Luna frowns.
LUNA
That's not fair.
She kisses Bubble's head.
JO
Come on. Put these back in your room. Bubble too.
Luna gets to her feet.
Jo hands her the four remaining books.
Luna gathers them against her chest, Bubble tucked under her arm, and heads into her bedroom.
From the nursery, a baby begins to fuss.
Jo glances toward the sound, smiling.
Luna reappears.
LUNA
I want to say goodbye to Hattie and Peyton.
JO
Okay. Quickly.
Daddy’s waiting for us.
They step inside.
Nardie stands beside the changing table, Peyton resting against her shoulder.
Hattie lies awake in her crib, looking around.
Nardie smiles as they enter.
NARDIE
Hattie just woke up a few minutes ago.
Luna goes straight to Hattie's crib.
She rises onto her toes.
LUNA (CONT'D)
Bye, Hattie.
Jo lifts her slightly so she can kiss her sister's forehead.
JO
Gentle.
LUNA
I know.
Jo smiles and sets her down.
She leans over the crib herself.
JO
Morning, beautiful.
Mommy’s got to go to work.
I'll see you tonight.
She kisses Hattie’s forehead.
Then turns to Peyton.
JO (CONT’D)
And you.
She brushes a finger over Peyton's cheek and kisses her head.
JO (CONT'D)
Be good for Nardie, okay?
Nardie smiles.
Peyton squirms against Nardie’s shoulder.
JO (CONT'D)
Her tummy’s still bothering her. She was up half the night.
Nardie gently rubs Peyton's back.
NARDIE
Poor thing.
She looks down at Peyton.
NARDIE
We’ll try some belly rubs, huh?
JO
Let's hope she likes that better than everything we tried last night.
Nardie rests a reassuring hand on Jo's arm.
NARDIE
We'll be fine.
A beat.
Nardie gives Jo's arm a gentle squeeze before letting go.
NARDIE
Oh, we're almost out of—
JO
Diapers. I know. We'll pick some up tonight.
NARDIE
Perfect.
Luna reaches up toward Peyton.
LUNA
Can I kiss her too?
NARDIE
Of course, sweetheart.
Nardie bends slightly so Luna can reach her sister.
Luna carefully kisses her sister's head.
LUNA (CONT'D)
Be good, Peyton.
Jo watches her for a moment, smiling.
Then—
From down the hall—
SCOUT (O.S.)
I DON'T WANT TO GO!
LINK (O.S.)
Come on, buddy.
SCOUT (O.S.)
No!
Jo looks toward the door and briefly closes her eyes.
Nardie suppresses a smile.
JO
Here we go.
She takes Luna's hand.
JO
Come on, Luna. Say goodbye to Nardie.
LUNA
Bye, Nardie.
Nardie smiles warmly.
NARDIE
Bye, sweetheart. See you this afternoon.
INT. JO AND LINK'S HOUSE — STAIRCASE / ENTRANCE — CONTINUOUS
Link comes downstairs with Scout slung over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes.
Scout squirms, protesting.
SCOUT
Put me down!
LINK
Almost there, buddy.
Link reaches the bottom of the stairs and sets him down on the last step.
Scout folds his arms.
One shoe on. The other still lies near the entrance bench.
Link stands in front of him, holding his jacket.
LINK
Come on, buddy. We have to go.
SCOUT
I don't want to go to school.
LINK
I know.
SCOUT
I want to stay home with Nardie.
LINK
You have school, buddy.
SCOUT
But Hattie and Peyton get to stay home.
LINK
They’re babies. They’re too little for school.
Scout considers this.
He remains firmly seated.
Link looks at him for a moment.
Then takes his car keys out of his pocket.
LINK
Hey. Want to unlock the car?
Scout looks up.
SCOUT
Me?
LINK
Yeah. Jacket first.
Scout jumps to his feet and holds out his arms.
Link slips the jacket on him.
SCOUT
Can I have the keys now?
Link hands them over.
Scout heads straight for the front door.
SCOUT
I'M DOING IT!
LINK
Hey, wait for me!
Link follows him outside.
A few seconds later, Jo comes downstairs with Luna, holding her backpack in one hand.
She spots Scout's abandoned shoe beside the bench and picks it up.
Link reappears in the doorway, car keys back in hand.
LINK
Forgot his backpack.
He grabs it from the bench.
Jo holds up the shoe.
JO
And this.
Link looks at it.
LINK
Right.
LUNA
Where's Scout?
LINK
Already in the car.
He bends to kiss Luna's forehead.
LINK (CONT’D)
Come on.
LUNA
Can I unlock the car?
Link glances toward the ceiling for a beat.
LINK
Yeah, okay. But let’s go!
Jo glances at the time.
JO
We're gonna be late again.
LINK
Everybody's dressed. We're doing great.
Jo holds up Scout's shoe.
JO
Define dressed.
Link looks at it.
LINK
Mostly dressed.
Jo hands him the shoe.
She picks up Luna's jacket.
JO (CONT'D)
Come on, sweetheart.
Luna follows her toward the door.
From outside—
SCOUT (O.S.)
DAD! I BUCKLED MYSELF!
Link looks at Jo.
LINK
See? We're making progress.
Jo laughs softly.
They head outside.
PART II — THE DRIVE
INT. LINK AND LINK'S CAR — 20 MINUTES LATER
Jo climbs into the passenger seat and closes the door.
She settles back with a long exhale.
Link pulls away from the school.
For the first time all morning, it's quiet.
JO
I’ve already used up all my energy for the day.
Link glances at her.
LINK
It's not even nine.
JO
Exactly.
He laughs.
They drive for a moment.
LINK
How was Luna?
JO
She wouldn’t go into the classroom until she saw Camilla. Then suddenly I didn’t exist.
LINK
Hey, that’s progress.
A beat.
LINK (CONT’D)
And Scout?
JO
Walked right in. Didn’t even look back.
Link smiles.
A beat.
JO
Why is it always harder with me? I mean, with you, she just walks right in.
LINK
Must be a mom thing.
Jo gives him a look.
JO
That’s your explanation?
LINK
It’s all I’ve got.
She smiles, looking out the window.
JO
You should've seen her with Peyton this morning.
LINK
What'd she do?
JO
She was telling her to be good with Nardie.
A small smile.
JO (CONT'D)
And earlier, she reminded Nardie to be careful with her head.
Link laughs.
LINK
She's going to be running that house by the time she's eight.
JO
She's already running it.
Link laughs.
Jo looks out the window, still smiling.
Link rests his hand on Jo's thigh.
She covers it with hers.
They drive for a while like that.
LINK
Think you'll have time for lunch today?
JO
Maybe. What time?
LINK
Twelve? I've got a knee scope at two.
JO
I've got a couple of patients to see this morning. Should be done by twelve-thirty.
LINK
Busy morning?
JO
Not really.
A few checkups, some follow-ups.
Nothing complicated.
A beat.
JO (CONT'D)
Which is fine by me.
LINK
No L&D?
JO
Not on my schedule today.
At least, that's the plan.
LINK
Okay.
Link gives her thigh a small squeeze.
She looks out the window for a moment.
JO (CONT'D)
Anyway, twelve-thirty should work.
LINK
Good. I'll come find you.
JO
Okay.
They stop at a red light.
Link looks over at Jo.
She's wearing a grey dress, her hair falling in loose waves around her shoulders.
She's watching people cross the street, unaware of the way he's looking at her.
LINK
You look beautiful, you know that?
She turns toward him.
JO
You mean for someone who's slept three hours?
LINK
We’ve slept five.
She gives him a look.
JO
Thank you. Like the difference matters.
He smiles.
LINK
Still beautiful.
She smiles despite herself.
JO
You're not looking too bad yourself.
LINK
Not bad?
You know the last time I wore a suit? Our wedding.
JO
Well, you look pretty good, actually.
He smiles.
A beat.
He leans across the console.
She meets him halfway.
The kiss is soft at first. Familiar.
Then Jo's hand moves to the back of his neck, keeping him there a little longer.
They draw back just enough to look at each other.
Neither moves away.
Jo leans in again, kissing him softly.
Then—
A horn sounds behind them.
They pull apart.
The light has turned green.
Link looks in the rearview mirror.
LINK
Okay, okay.
Jo laughs as he drives on.
Link settles his hand back on her thigh. She covers it with hers.
The music plays softly on the radio.
For a while, neither of them speaks.
Then—
LINK
I miss you.
Jo looks at him.
JO
I'm sitting right here.
LINK
I know.
He glances at her.
LINK (CONT'D)
That's not what I meant.
Jo watches him for a moment.
Then she looks down at their joined hands.
JO
I know.
Her thumb moves gently over his knuckles.
JO (CONT'D)
I miss you too.
Link smiles.
They drive on in comfortable silence.
INT. GREY SLOAN MEMORIAL HOSPITAL — PARKING LOT — MORNING
Link pulls into a parking space.
Jo checks the dashboard clock. 8:55 AM.
JO
How are we here already?
LINK
No traffic. Hit every green light.
JO
In Seattle?
Link smiles.
Jo checks the time again.
JO (CONT'D)
Wait, is the inauguration at nine or nine-thirty?
LINK
Nine-thirty.
We’ve got at least twenty minutes before we have to be upstairs.
Jo reaches for her bag.
Link turns off the engine.
A beat.
LINK (CONT'D)
Twenty minutes, huh?
Jo turns toward him.
She catches the look on his face.
JO
Don't even think about it.
LINK
I didn't say anything.
Jo smiles and gives him a light shove.
JO
Get out of the car.
Link grins.
Jo opens her door, but glances back at him before getting out.
He catches her look.
She smiles and steps out.
EXT. GREY SLOAN MEMORIAL HOSPITAL — PARKING LOT — MORNING
Jo and Link cross the parking lot toward the hospital.
Link reaches for Jo's hand, gently leading the way.
JO
How long do you think this thing’s gonna take?
LINK
Thirty minutes?
JO
We’re talking about Catherine Fox.
Link laughs.
They reach the entrance.
As they step inside, their hands separate almost unconsciously.
Neither seems to notice.
PART III — GREY SLOAN
INT. GREY SLOAN MEMORIAL HOSPITAL — CORRIDOR — CONTINUOUS
They make their way toward the elevators.
A group of nurses passes.
Jo exchanges a quick greeting with one of them.
Link walks beside her.
They reach the elevators and press the button.
JO
I'm already regretting these heels.
She stops to adjust one of her shoes, resting a hand on Link's arm for balance.
Link watches her, smiling.
He steadies her with a hand at her waist.
Jo straightens and catches his smile.
His hand lingers at her waist for a moment before he lets go.
Then the elevator chimes.
The doors open.
INT. HOSPITAL ELEVATOR — CONTINUOUS
A few people step out.
Jo and Link move inside, followed by two hospital staff members.
Jo presses the button for the VIP floor.
JO
Bet they've got decent coffee up there.
The doors close.
Link leans against the wall beside her.
His hand finds hers.
Jo slips her fingers between his.
For a moment, they stand quietly, watching the floor numbers change.
Link gently brushes his thumb over her fingers.
Jo shifts a little closer to him, her shoulder resting against his arm.
Link glances down at her.
She keeps her eyes on the elevator doors.
The elevator slows.
The two staff members step out.
The doors close again.
They are alone.
Jo looks at Link.
He turns toward her at the same moment.
Their eyes meet.
A second later, they're kissing. Passionately. Without hesitation.
Link draws her close, one hand at her waist.
Jo slips both arms around his neck, her fingers sliding into his hair.
For a moment, they forget about the elevator.
Link draws back just enough to speak.
LINK
(between kisses)
We need a whole day of this.
JO
Yeah.
She kisses him again, her hand tightening gently at the back of his neck.
He smiles against her mouth.
The elevator chimes.
They pull apart, a little reluctantly.
The doors open.
A couple of hospital staff stand waiting, chatting.
Jo catches Link’s sleeve and starts toward the doors.
LINK
(whisper)
This isn't our floor.
She looks back at him.
JO
I don't care.
Link looks at her for a beat.
Then smiles.
She leads him out.
INT. GREY SLOAN MEMORIAL HOSPITAL — ON-CALL ROOM — CONTINUOUS
Jo opens the door and peers inside.
Empty.
She catches Link by the hand and pulls him in, closing the door behind them.
He barely has time to turn around before she kisses him.
Link responds immediately, drawing her against him.
He turns them, pressing her gently back against the door as he kisses her again.
His hand reaches behind her for the lock.
A click.
Jo smiles against his mouth.
Link shrugs off his jacket, tossing it onto a nearby bed.
He loosens his tie, and Jo pulls it free, tossing it aside.
They barely break apart.
Her hands move to the buttons of his shirt, fumbling with them in her hurry.
Link glances down.
LINK
I need that shirt.
JO
Then help me.
He laughs softly and reaches for the buttons.
Between them, they manage to get the shirt open.
Jo pushes it from his shoulders, and it falls to the floor.
She draws him back into another kiss.
Link holds her close, his hands moving around her waist and up her back.
His fingers find the zipper of her dress.
Jo catches his wrist.
JO
We don't have time.
He looks at her, amused.
Then kisses her again.
Jo unbuckles his trousers, letting them fall to the floor.
Link hurriedly removes her panties.
Still kissing, she guides him backward toward the bed.
Link sits on its edge, drawing Jo close.
She settles onto his lap, her arms slipping around his neck. Her grey dress still on.
He draws her closer.
Jo cups his face in both hands and kisses him again.
Their kiss deepens.
For a little while, nothing else demands their attention. The world outside that room falls away, leaving them a moment entirely their own.
CUT TO:
INT. HOSPITAL ON-CALL ROOM — LATER
Jo and Link lie together on the narrow bed.
Link is in his underwear, his arm wrapped around Jo. She's still wearing her grey dress, tucked against his side, her head resting on his bare chest.
His fingers move slowly along her arm.
Neither seems particularly inclined to move.
A quiet moment.
LINK
We should use this room more often.
Jo laughs softly against his chest.
JO
I've been in more comfortable places.
A beat.
JO (CONT'D)
But it beats the supply closet.
He smiles and kisses the top of her head.
A moment.
LINK
Think we could finally take that honeymoon?
Jo lifts her head to look at him.
JO
You remember we have four kids, right?
And two of them are babies.
LINK
I know.
A beat.
LINK (CONT’D)
At this point, I’d settle for a room with a door that locks.
Jo smiles.
JO
With a king-size bed where we could stay all day.
LINK
Room service. True crime documentaries. We wouldn't have to leave the bed.
She laughs.
JO
That does sound nice.
She leans up and kisses him.
He smiles, his arm tightening around her for a moment.
Jo settles back against his chest.
Then her eyes drift toward the clock on the wall.
She freezes.
JO
Oh my God.
LINK
What?
JO
We're late.
Link turns his head toward the clock.
LINK
Oh.
Jo sits up abruptly.
JO
Come on.
She gets off the bed, retrieves her underwear, and quickly dresses.
Link reaches for his trousers.
LINK
I'm coming.
He gets up and pulls them on, then reaches for his shirt on the floor.
Jo straightens her dress and retrieves her bag.
She moves to the small mirror beside the door, running her fingers through her hair and trying to smooth the loose waves back into place.
Behind her, Link hastily buttons his shirt.
He fastens two buttons into the wrong holes.
He doesn't notice.
He grabs his tie from the floor and his jacket from the bed, hurriedly slipping the jacket on.
Jo gives herself one last look in the mirror.
Link joins her.
LINK
How do I look?
She doesn’t even look.
JO
Fine. Let's go.
Jo reaches for the lock, turns it, and opens the door.
INT. HOSPITAL CORRIDOR — CONTINUOUS
Jo steps out first.
Link follows, still straightening his jacket.
They stop.
Bailey stands a few feet away in a sky-blue pantsuit, tablet in hand.
She looks at Jo.
Then Link.
Her eyes drop to his shirt.
A beat.
BAILEY
Mm-hmm.
You might want to fix that.
Link looks down.
Two buttons are fastened into the wrong holes.
LINK
Oh.
He starts undoing them.
Jo presses her lips together, visibly embarrassed.
JO
Morning.
BAILEY
Morning.
She looks between them again.
JO
We weren’t—
Bailey raises a hand.
BAILEY
I don’t want to know.
Jo closes her mouth.
LINK
No, but—
BAILEY
Lincoln. Don’t.
A beat.
BAILEY (CONT’D)
Four kids. I understand the need to be creative.
Jo closes her eyes.
Bailey returns to her tablet.
Link finishes fixing his shirt.
JO
Wait. Aren't you supposed to be upstairs?
BAILEY
I could ask you the same thing.
A beat.
BAILEY (CONT’D)
Inauguration's been pushed back. Meredith's stuck at the airport.
Jo looks at Link.
Link looks back at her.
BAILEY (CONT'D)
Meanwhile, the rest of the hospital is still open. Patients still need doctors.
She walks off.
Jo watches Bailey walk away, then turns to Link.
A beat.
LINK
Well, that could've gone worse.
Jo gives him a look.
JO
How?
Link considers that.
He has no answer.
Jo shakes her head, a reluctant smile breaking through her embarrassment.
They head toward the elevators.
FADE OUT.
Episode 23×02 — “Slippin’ and Slidin’” (Canon)
At Jo and Link’s new house, Jo is struggling with a sewing machine after volunteering to make costumes for the school. Frustrated that she can’t get the machine to work, she jokes that she once delivered a breech baby through an opening the size of a grapefruit, yet somehow can’t figure out how to thread the stupid thing.
Link gently suggests that maybe it’s time to call in a professional, but Jo reminds him that she’s a stay-at-home mom now. She’s supposed to be the professional.
Link points out that she’s been going nonstop since quitting her job a week earlier. When Jo gives him a look, he quickly reassures her that she’s got this and can do anything. He leans in to kiss her before leaving for work, though he gives her one last concerned look on his way out.
Early that afternoon, Amelia and Toni arrive to pick up Scout for a trip to see the ferry boats. It’s the first time Scout is meeting Toni. Jo greets them at the door, dressed comfortably in sweatpants, a sweater and thick socks, and tells them Scout is outside making bubbles with Nardie and the other kids.
Noticing the sewing machine, Amelia asks if Jo has taken up sewing. Jo explains that she’s trying, but can’t get the bottom thread to catch. Toni offers to take a look, mentioning that her mother was a home economics teacher. She quickly fixes the problem, leaving Jo even more frustrated that something she’d spent over an hour troubleshooting had such a simple solution.
Jo then asks if Toni happens to know how to sew a zipper. Toni glances at Amelia, since they’re supposed to be leaving with Scout, but Amelia agrees they can stay a few more minutes. Toni gets to work helping Jo.
Meanwhile, at Grey Sloan, Bailey and Kwan bring in Tripp, a college student injured during a fraternity hazing incident. Wrapped in plastic wrap and covered in baby oil, he had been sent sliding down a flight of stairs.
An X-ray reveals an acetabular fracture and a dislocated femur. Link orders a CT scan, which shows that the femoral head has displaced into Tripp’s rectum. Tripp is taken into surgery to reduce the dislocation, repair the rectal injury and stabilize his pelvis with plates.
Back at the house, Jo is still sewing, while Amelia and Toni have joined in, cutting fabric and helping her assemble the costumes.
An alarm goes off, reminding Jo about the macaroni and cheese she has in the oven. Amelia is surprised she’s making dinner too, but Jo explains that it’s for the following night. Now that she’s no longer working as a resident, she finally has time to take care of the kids and the house. It is a full-time job, after all.
Amelia agrees, pointing out that nothing is harder than being a stay-at-home parent, and that’s coming from a neurosurgeon.
Jo insists she’s starting to get the hang of it. She’s found a rhythm with the laundry, the closets are organized, and the family calendar is up to date. She finally finishes one of the costumes and holds it up to inspect her work. Her expression falls. It’s a disaster. Amelia and Toni try to reassure her that it’s a very cute skunk. Jo stares at them in disbelief. It’s supposed to be a raccoon, pointing to the tail.
Just then, Amelia notices a burning smell. Jo suddenly remembers the macaroni and cheese, which she never took out of the oven. Toni rushes to deal with it, while Amelia tries to reassure Jo that they can fix everything. But Jo is overwhelmed. She calls the whole thing a stupid idea, thanks them both for helping, and tells them they can go. She retreats to her bedroom.
Amelia and Toni attempt to salvage the macaroni and cheese by scraping off the burnt top, but there’s no saving it. Jo eventually returns, her face showing that she’s been crying. She sits at the kitchen counter and apologizes for ruining their entire day. Amelia brushes it off, joking that the ferry boat trip was probably a terrible idea anyway. Scout would have enjoyed it for five minutes before getting bored, and the whole outing would have been an epic failure.
But Jo starts crying again.
Amelia comes closer, reassuring her that it’s okay. She can just order some macaroni and cheese for delivery, and dinner will be taken care of in twenty minutes. Jo explains that it isn’t really about the macaroni and cheese. She’s been trying so hard to make up for all the time they lost after the twins were born, but the truth is, she doesn’t know what she’s doing.
Amelia reminds her that she can’t get everything right all the time. Toni chimes in with a confession of her own: her washing machine is broken, and her son has been without clean underwear for over a week. But Jo argues that they get a pass because they’re working moms.
Amelia challenges that idea. A pass for what? Perfection? Some impossible ideal of motherhood? She tells Jo that the image of the perfect mother isn’t real. It’s a social construct designed to sell cleaning products and make mothers feel bad about themselves. All they can do is their best. Sometimes they’re doing great, and sometimes they’re drowning, but their best is always good enough. Toni jokingly admits that she could probably do a little better, making everyone laugh. Jo finally laughs through her tears.
That evening, Link is back home, dressed comfortably and tidying up the living room, gathering the children’s toys from the couch into a basket. Jo picks up the costume she left on the dining table and hides it behind her back before asking Link if he’s ready. She reveals her creation, and Link immediately puts on an exaggerated display of enthusiasm, declaring it incredible. Jo challenges him to guess what it is. Link hesitates, clearly terrified of giving the wrong answer, before cautiously suggesting it’s a dog. Jo laughs at how nervous he looks, teasing him about how hard he’s sweating. She tells him it’s a raccoon. Link insists he almost guessed raccoon. It was definitely on his list, right after squirrel and rat.Jo playfully calls him a liar.
She eventually admits that he was right: she should never have volunteered to make the costumes in the first place. Link laughs and tells her he’s sorry it didn’t work out. But Jo has found a solution. She’s hired an amazing seamstress who’s going to help her finish them.
They settle together on the couch, Jo curling up beside him as Link wraps an arm around her legs. She gently runs her fingers through his hair. Link is happy to hear that she’s getting help, especially since it means she won’t have to spend the entire night sewing. Instead, she gets to hang out with him. Jo gives him a contented little “Mm-hmm,” looking into his eyes with a warm, affectionate smile.
After a moment, Link can’t resist one final question. Is she absolutely sure it isn’t a possum? Jo protests that she’s already told him what it is and he needs to stop guessing. Link presses his lips together, holding back his laughter, and gives her a playfully chastened look.
They remain curled up together on the couch, enjoying a quiet, cozy evening at home.
Missing Scenes Batch 23.2
-
23.2.B1 – Just Another Evening at the Lincolns’
6:30 PM: COMING HOME
INT. LINCOLN HOUSE — LIVING ROOM — EVENING
The remains of dinner are still scattered across the kitchen counter. A mostly empty plate, a few crumbs, and several freshly washed baby bottles drying beside the sink.
In the living room, toys are scattered around the coffee table. A couple of plastic dinosaurs have been abandoned on the couch.
Jo sits on the edge of the couch, leaning over Peyton, who lies on a changing mat spread across the cushion beside her.
A packet of wipes sits within reach on the coffee table, along with a small stack of clean diapers.
Luna, already in her pajamas, kneels beside the couch, watching closely. Bubble, her stuffed puppy, lies on the other end of the couch, beside a couple of plastic dinosaurs.
Hattie is awake in one of the two bassinets near the stairs, making small, impatient noises.
Jo reaches for the wipes.
JO
Luna, baby, can you hand me a wipe?
Luna pulls one from the packet and hands it to her.
JO (CONT'D)
Thank you, sweetheart.
Jo finishes cleaning Peyton.
JO (CONT'D)
All clean. Can you get me a diaper?
Luna picks one up from the stack and hands it over.
JO (CONT'D)
Perfect. Thank you!
Jo slips the clean diaper beneath Peyton, who squirms and lets out a small cry.
LUNA
She's crying again.
JO
I know. She doesn't like getting changed very much.
Jo fastens one side of the diaper, then looks at Luna.
JO (CONT'D)
Here. You wanna do this one?
Luna nods eagerly.
She carefully pulls the other tab across.
JO (CONT'D)
A little tighter... There you go.
Luna presses it down.
LUNA
I did it!
JO
You did! Good job, baby.
Peyton squirms again, her face scrunching up.
Luna leans closer.
LUNA
It's okay, Peyton. Almost done.
Her voice is soft and reassuring, an unmistakable imitation of Jo.
Jo glances at her for a moment, smiling.
JO
I've got the best little assistant!
Luna beams, proud of herself.
Jo begins fastening Peyton's onesie.
The front door opens.
LINK (O.S.)
Hello, girls!
Luna's head shoots up.
LUNA
Daddy!
Jo finishes fastening Peyton's onesie.
JO
Oh, look who's here.
She carefully lifts Peyton into her arms.
Link enters, dropping his keys onto the kitchen counter as he passes.
LINK
Hey, my favorite girls!
He approaches the back of the couch and leans over to kiss Jo.
LINK (CONT'D)
Hey.
JO
Hey.
He looks down at Peyton nestled against her.
LINK
(in a soft, playful voice)
Hello, my baby!
I missed you!
He kisses her forehead.
Jo smiles.
Link makes his way around the couch, passing Hattie's bassinet near the stairs.
He bends down to kiss her.
LINK
Hey, baby.
Hattie answers with a small grunt.
LINK (CONT'D)
Yeah, I missed you too.
Luna has already abandoned the changing supplies and is standing beside him, both arms raised.
LUNA
Daddy!
LINK
How's my little princess?
He scoops her up, shifting her weight onto his good side.
A brief flicker of discomfort crosses his face before he settles her comfortably against him.
He kisses her cheek.
LINK (CONT'D)
(to Jo)
Sorry I'm late.
He lets out a breath.
LINK (CONT’D)
As if working on a Saturday wasn't bad enough, traffic was a nightmare.
JO
It's okay. Nardie just left. She stayed a little longer.
She glances at Peyton.
JO (CONT’D)
Both girls decided they were hungry at the same time.
Then at Luna.
JO (CONT'D)
All three girls, actually.
Link glances toward the kitchen counter, where Luna's empty dinner plate still sits.
He turns to Luna.
LINK
Oh, somebody had quite the appetite!
LUNA
I finished my plate!
Jo raises an eyebrow.
JO
Hmm. Well…
Link looks at her.
JO (CONT'D)
Mommy helped.
Luna suddenly finds Bubble lying on the couch very interesting.
Link smiles.
LINK
I see.
LUNA
Daddy, I have something to show you!
LINK
You do?
LUNA
In my room!
LINK
Well, I'd better come see it, then.
He looks toward Jo.
LINK (CONT'D)
So, how was your day?
Jo considers the question for a moment.
JO
Eventful.
A small smile.
Before she can elaborate—
LUNA
Scout spent the whole afternoon with us!
Link looks at Jo, surprised.
LINK
He did? I thought Amelia was picking him up after lunch.
JO
Yeah, well, they—
She gives a small, amused shake of her head.
JO (CONT'D)
Long story.
Luna perks up, practically bouncing in Link's arms.
LUNA
We made bubbles! And Scout made a REALLY big one, and—
Jo smiles at Luna's excitement, then glances toward the clock.
JO
Hey, why don't you tell Daddy all about it upstairs? It's time to get ready for bed.
LUNA
Nooo!
JO
Come on, sweetheart. We waited for Daddy, and now he's here.
Link sets Luna down.
LINK
Come on. Let's go see what you've got to show me.
Luna immediately reaches for his hand.
Peyton begins to fuss against Jo's chest.
Jo looks down as the fussing turns into increasingly insistent cries. Peyton squirms, drawing her knees toward her tummy.
JO
Oh, sweetheart.
She shifts Peyton upright against her shoulder, supporting her head as she begins gently rubbing her back.
Peyton continues crying.
Link looks over.
LINK
You want me to take Peyton while you put Luna to bed?
LUNA
No! I want Daddy!
Link looks down at Luna, then back at Jo.
A small beat.
JO
It's okay. I'll settle her. You go.
She adjusts Peyton against her shoulder.
LINK
You sure?
JO
Yeah. I've got her.
Link nods.
LINK
I'll come help when we're done.
He leans over and gives Jo a kiss.
Then he turns to Luna.
LINK (CONT'D)
Come on, give Mommy a kiss.
Luna steps toward Jo.
Jo lowers her cheek slightly, keeping Peyton supported against her shoulder.
Luna rises onto her toes and gives her a quick kiss.
JO
Goodnight, baby. Love you.
LUNA
Night, Mommy!
Luna grabs Bubble from the couch and heads toward the stairs, Link following.
LINK
Did you brush your teeth?
LUNA
Yes!
JO
She did not.
Link stops and looks back at Jo.
Jo gives him a knowing look.
LINK
Okay. Teeth first.
Luna continues toward the stairs.
LUNA
Daddy, you have to see Bubble's bed!
LINK
Bubble has a bed now?
LUNA
Yes!
Their voices fade upstairs.
Jo watches them disappear.
Peyton is still fussing against her shoulder.
Jo sways gently, rubbing slow circles over her back.
JO
I know, sweetheart.
She presses a kiss to Peyton's head.
A little noise comes from Hattie's bassinet.
Jo looks toward her.
Hattie begins fussing, too.
Keeping Peyton supported against her shoulder, Jo moves closer and rests her free hand gently on Hattie's tummy.
JO (CONT'D)
I'm here, baby.
Hattie squirms beneath her hand.
Jo continues swaying, soothing Peyton against her chest while keeping a gentle touch on Hattie.
CUT TO: UPSTAIRS BATHROOM.6:45 PM: A LITTLE TIME WITH LUNA
INT. LINCOLN HOUSE — UPSTAIRS BATHROOM — EVENING
Luna stands on a small step stool in front of the bathroom sink. Bubble sits on the countertop, propped against the wall beside her.
Link puts some toothpaste on her toothbrush and holds it out to her.
LINK
Here you go.
Luna looks at the toothbrush.
LUNA
You do it.
LINK
You know how to brush your teeth by yourself.
Luna presses her lips together and shakes her head.
Link looks at her.
LINK
Oh, you don't?
She shakes her head again, keeping her mouth firmly closed.
Link smiles, conceding.
LINK (CONT'D)
Alright. Open up.
Luna immediately opens her mouth.
Link begins brushing her teeth, carefully working his way around.
LINK (CONT'D)
And the back ones.
Luna opens wider.
He continues brushing, taking his time.
Luna starts shifting impatiently on the stool.
LINK (CONT’D)
Almost done.
He gives her teeth a final brush, then hands her a cup to rinse.
LINK (CONT'D)
There we go.
As she spits into the sink, Link looks at Bubble.
LINK (CONT'D)
What about Bubble? Doesn't he have to brush his teeth, too?
Luna giggles.
LUNA
Daddy! He's a dog!
LINK
Dogs have teeth.
Luna laughs.
LUNA
He's a stuffed dog!
LINK
Oh. Right. My mistake.
Link gives Bubble a little pat on the head.
LINK (CONT'D)
You're off the hook, buddy.
Luna laughs and picks Bubble up.
Link helps her down from the stool.
LINK (CONT'D)
Alright. Come on.
INT. LUNA'S BEDROOM — CONTINUOUS
Luna hurries toward her bed, Bubble tucked beneath her arm.
Across the room, Scout's bed is neatly made, untouched.
Beside Luna's bed sits a shoebox lined with a small blanket and a folded washcloth for a pillow.
LUNA
Look, Daddy!
She points excitedly to the shoebox.
Link approaches and sits on the edge of her bed, leaning forward to get a better look.
LINK
Oh, so that's Bubble's new bed.
LUNA
I made it with Nardie!
LINK
You did?
Luna carefully lays Bubble inside and pulls the little blanket over him.
She adjusts his head on the washcloth pillow.
Link watches.
LINK (CONT’D)
Looks pretty cozy.
LUNA
It is!
LINK
Think he'd let me borrow it?
Luna giggles.
LUNA
You're too big!
LINK
Yeah. You're probably right.
Link smiles.
LUNA
And you have to sleep with Mommy.
Link smiles.
LINK
I do?
LUNA
To protect her.
Link looks at her.
LINK
Protect her from what, honey?
LUNA
Getting sick again.
A beat.
Link's expression softens.
LINK
Mommy's doing much better now, sweetheart.
Luna considers this.
LUNA
Then why doesn't she go to the hospital with you?
LINK
Mommy's taking a little break from work right now, remember?
LUNA
Because she doesn’t like hospitals anymore?
Link looks at her for a moment.
LINK
Not exactly. Mommy's just not ready to go back yet.
Luna nods, still thinking.
LUNA
But I don’t want Mommy to be sad.
Link looks at her.
LINK
What makes you think she's sad, baby?
LUNA
Because she cried today.
Link pauses.
LINK
She did?
Luna nods.
He takes that in.
LINK (CONT'D)
Well, sometimes grown-ups cry too.
Even when they're doing okay.
LUNA
I don't like it.
LINK
I know, baby.
He gently brushes a strand of hair away from her face.
LINK (CONT’D)
You know what always makes Mommy feel a little better?
Luna looks at him.
LINK (CONT'D)
A really big hug.
LUNA
Did you give her one?
Link smiles.
LINK
Not yet. But I'll make sure she gets one tonight.
Luna seems satisfied.
LINK (CONT'D)
So… what are we reading tonight?
Luna climbs onto the bed beside him and reaches for the stack of books on her nightstand.
Link shifts back against the headboard, stretching his legs out beside her.
LINK (CONT'D)
Scout's not here, so you get to pick both.
She considers her options very seriously, then hands him two books.
Link looks at the first one.
LINK (CONT'D)
This one again?
LUNA
Yes!
LINK
Don't you want to pick something else? We've read this at least four times this week.
LUNA
I like it.
LINK
I know. I think I could read it with my eyes closed by now.
Luna giggles.
LUNA
No, you can't!
LINK
Wanna bet?
He opens the book.
Luna settles beside him, resting her head against his arm.
Link begins reading.
For a while, Luna listens quietly, her eyes following the pictures.
A little later, Link turns a page.
LUNA
Daddy!
Link stops.
LINK
What?
LUNA
You skipped a part!
Link looks back at the previous page.
LINK
Did I?
LUNA
Yes!
She points to the page.
He glances at her.
LINK
You sure?
Luna nods emphatically.
Link looks back at the book, caught.
LINK (CONT'D)
Right. Of course.
He turns back and reads the missing passage.
LUNA
See? You can't read it with your eyes closed.
Link gives her a look.
LINK
Okay, you got me.
Luna grins and settles against him again.
Link continues reading.
A LITTLE LATER.
Link closes the second book.
LINK
The end.
LUNA
Another one!
LINK
Nice try.
He places the book on the nightstand.
Luna reaches for another.
LINK (CONT'D)
Hey. You know it's two, baby.
LUNA
But I want this one!
Link looks at the book she's holding.
LINK
I'll tell you what. I'll read that one tomorrow morning, alright?
Luna considers the offer.
LUNA
Promise?
LINK
Promise.
Luna reluctantly puts the book down and slips beneath the covers.
Link pulls the blanket over her, tucking it around her legs.
LUNA
Daddy?
LINK
Yeah?
LUNA
When’s Scout coming back?
LINK
Wednesday.
LUNA
How many sleeps?
LINK
Four more sleeps.
Luna considers this.
LUNA
That's a lot.
LINK
I know, baby.
He smooths the blanket over her legs.
LINK (CONT’D)
But you’ll see him at school on Monday.
LUNA
And then he's coming home?
LINK
Not until Wednesday, honey.
Luna nods, looking a little disappointed.
Link watches her for a moment.
LINK (CONT'D)
Hey. You know what you and I are gonna do tomorrow morning?
Luna looks up.
LUNA
What?
LINK
Pancakes.
Her face brightens.
LUNA
With chocolate chips?
LINK
Obviously.
Mommy’s favorites.
Luna grins.
LUNA
Can I help?
LINK
You bet.
He gives the blanket a little tug, tucking her in.
LINK (CONT'D)
But first, you need to get some sleep.
Luna settles back against her pillow.
A moment passes.
LUNA
Why do Hattie and Peyton get to stay downstairs?
LINK
They're coming up too. Mommy's just getting them ready for bed.
LUNA
Are they gonna wake up again tonight?
Link laughs quietly.
LINK
Probably. But if you hear them, you go right back to sleep, okay?
LUNA
But what if they need me?
LINK
We'll take care of them, sweetheart. You don't have to worry.
Link leans down and kisses her forehead.
LINK (CONT'D)
Goodnight, princess.
LUNA
Goodnight, Daddy.
Link gets up, switches on her night-light and turns off the main light.
As he reaches the door—
LUNA
Daddy!
Link turns.
LINK
What is it?
Luna points toward Bubble, tucked into the shoebox beside her bed.
LUNA
You forgot Bubble!
Link looks at the little bed.
LINK
Oh, of course.
He walks back, crouches beside Bubble and gives the stuffed puppy a kiss on the head.
LINK (CONT'D)
Goodnight, Bubble.
Luna smiles.
LUNA
Goodnight.
Link straightens and looks at her.
LINK
Love you, princess.
LUNA
Love you, Daddy.
He starts toward the door again.
LUNA (CONT'D)
Leave the door open.
LINK
I know.
He smiles and leaves the door slightly ajar.
CUT TO: THE LIVING ROOM.7:05 PM: SETTLING THE TWINS
INT. LINCOLN HOUSE — LIVING ROOM — EVENING
Jo stands beside the couch, gently rocking Hattie against her chest.
Hattie squirms in her arms, letting out a series of unhappy little cries.
Peyton sleeps in the bassinet by the stairs, already tucked into her sleep sack, a pacifier resting between her lips.
Jo adjusts Hattie against her shoulder and resumes the slow, familiar sway.
JO
Come on, Hattie. What's going on?
Hattie fusses again.
Jo rubs her back, pressing a kiss to her head.
Footsteps on the stairs.
Link comes downstairs.
LINK
Sorry, that took a while.
JO
Everything okay?
LINK
Yeah. She had about a hundred questions tonight.
Jo smiles.
Link approaches, glancing into Peyton's bassinet.
LINK (CONT'D)
One down.
He looks at Hattie, still fussing against Jo's shoulder.
LINK (CONT'D)
What's going on with this little lady?
JO
Not quite ready to call it a night.
I just changed her diaper, so that's not it.
She glances toward the pacifier lying on the coffee table.
JO (CONT'D)
And she wants nothing to do with her pacifier.
Link holds out his arms.
LINK
Come here.
Jo carefully transfers Hattie to him.
She sinks onto the couch, watching as Link settles Hattie against his chest, supporting her head as he begins gently rocking her.
Almost immediately, Hattie's cries fade.
She squirms once, then grows quiet.
JO
Okay. So everybody's team Daddy tonight.
Link looks up, a playful smile spreading across his face.
LINK
What can I say? Daddy's got the magic touch.
Jo gives him a look.
LINK (CONT'D)
Mommy too. Obviously.
JO
Hmm.
Jo shakes her head, amused.
Link grins and kisses Hattie's head.
Hattie lets out a tiny sigh.
Link looks down at his daughter.
LINK (CONT'D)
Alright, little lady. Let's get you into your sleep sack.
Jo gets up from the couch and joins him beside Hattie's empty bassinet. She straightens the sleep sack laid out inside, spreading it open for him.
Link gently lays her on top of it.
She immediately starts squirming.
LINK (CONT'D)
Hey, hey. Almost done.
He guides her arms through the openings and carefully pulls up the zipper, keeping the fabric clear of her chin.
LINK (CONT'D)
There we go.
He gathers Hattie back into his arms.
She settles against his chest again.
Beside them, Peyton stirs in her bassinet.
Jo glances over, waiting.
Peyton makes a small noise, then settles again.
Jo looks at Link.
JO
Ready?
LINK
As we'll ever be.
Jo carefully lifts Peyton from the bassinet.
With a baby each, they head upstairs.
INT. LINCOLN HOUSE — NURSERY — MOMENTS LATER
A small night-light casts a soft glow across the room. Jo and Link speak in whispers, careful not to wake the girls.
Jo approaches Peyton's bassinet and carefully lowers her onto her back.
Peyton stirs, turning her head slightly, but Jo keeps a gentle hand against her chest until she settles.
Across the room, Link stands beside Hattie's bassinet, still rocking her.
He looks down at her.
Her eyes are closed.
LINK
I think she's out.
Jo glances over.
JO
You sure?
LINK
Pretty sure.
He carefully lowers Hattie onto her back.
The moment she touches the mattress, her eyes open.
Link freezes.
Jo watches from beside Peyton's bassinet.
JO
Still got that magic touch?
Link looks at her.
LINK
Yeah, well... The mattress is working against me.
Jo smiles.
Link gently lifts Hattie back against his chest.
She settles almost immediately.
He looks at Jo.
LINK (CONT'D)
Go ahead. I'll meet you downstairs.
JO
You sure?
LINK
Yeah. We've got this.
He glances down at Hattie.
LINK (CONT'D)
Don't we, Hattie?
Jo steps closer, gives Link a quick kiss on the cheek, then a playful swat on the butt.
JO
(whispering)
Good luck.
She slips quietly out of the nursery.
Link resumes his slow sway.
Hattie squirms a little against his chest.
He gently rubs her back.
LINK
(softly)
Come on, baby.
He continues rocking her.
Gradually, Hattie's movements slow.
Her eyes close.
Link waits.
A few moments longer.
Then he approaches the bassinet again.
Carefully, he lowers her onto her back.
This time, she stays asleep.
He rests a hand lightly against her chest, waiting until she's still before drawing it away.
Link watches her for another moment.
He takes a cautious step backward.
Hattie stirs, letting out a small, unhappy noise.
Link stops.
He waits, hoping she'll settle.
Another little fuss.
He reaches for her pacifier on the dresser and gently offers it to her.
Hattie takes it.
Her movements gradually quiet.
Link watches her for a few seconds.
She remains asleep.
Link slowly makes his way toward the door.
He gives the bassinets one last glance before slipping out, pulling the door almost closed behind him.
The night-light glows softly in the quiet nursery.
CUT TO: THE KITCHEN.7:30 PM: DINNER FOR TWO
INT. LINCOLN HOUSE — KITCHEN — EVENING
The house is finally quiet. Soft music plays in the background.
Jo stands at the kitchen counter, her back to the stairs, clearing away a few things and setting out a plate and cutlery.
Footsteps on the stairs.
She glances over her shoulder as Link comes downstairs.
JO
You made it?
LINK
Finally, yeah.
Jo smiles and turns back to the counter.
Link approaches from behind, slipping his arms around her waist and pulling her gently against him.
Jo leans back into his embrace.
He kisses her neck and holds her a little tighter.
JO
What's that for?
LINK
Luna made me promise I'd give you a really big hug tonight.
Jo turns her head slightly toward him.
JO
She did?
LINK
Yeah.
Jo smiles.
JO
Well, who am I to argue with that?
She turns in his arms, slipping her hands around his neck.
Link kisses her. She kisses him back, lingering for a moment.
When they part, he keeps her close, her arms still around his neck.
LINK
Finally. Some alone time.
JO
Mmm. All five minutes of it.
Link smiles.
LINK
I'll take it.
She kisses him again.
Then she slips her arms around his waist, resting her head against his chest.
Link kisses the top of her head.
LINK (CONT'D)
You okay?
JO
Yeah.
She looks up at him.
JO (CONT'D)
Better now.
He smiles and kisses her once more before reluctantly letting go.
JO
You hungry?
LINK
Starving.
His eyes fall on the plate she's set out.
LINK (CONT’D)
You’re not eating?
JO
I finished most of Luna's dinner. I might just grab a yogurt.
LINK
She didn't eat much, huh?
JO
Oh, she ate. Just not as much as she said she did.
Link chuckles and heads toward the fridge.
Jo follows him, reaching for a yogurt as he opens the door.
JO (CONT’D)
There's some casserole left from yesterday.
Link spots the casserole dish on one of the shelves.
He makes a face before he can help himself.
Jo catches it.
JO (CONT'D)
What?
LINK
Nothing.
JO
You made a face.
LINK
I didn't make a face.
JO
You absolutely did.
Link looks back at her.
LINK
Wait. No. I loved your casserole.
JO
You're such a liar.
He smiles.
Jo folds her arms, waiting.
LINK
It was just… a little heavy on the salt.
Jo raises an eyebrow.
JO
I knew you didn’t like it.
LINK
I did!
She shakes her head, amused.
JO
There's some lasagna left from the kids' lunch.
LINK
Lasagna sounds great.
JO
Wow. That was fast.
LINK
I love your lasagna.
He leans in to steal a kiss.
Jo laughs and nudges him away.
Link grins and takes the container out of the fridge.
He transfers a portion onto a plate and puts it in the microwave.
Jo settles onto a stool at the counter, peeling back the lid of her yogurt.
JO
So, how was your day?
LINK
Oh, you're gonna love this one.
Jo looks at him.
LINK
Eighteen-year-old who decided it would be a great idea to wrap himself in plastic wrap, cover himself in baby oil, and slide down a flight of stairs.
Jo stares at him.
JO
I'm sorry, what for?
LINK
Fraternity hazing.
JO
Of course.
LINK
Apparently, that's what passes for fun these days.
JO
And I assume that went really well.
LINK
Oh, spectacularly. Dislocated his hip, fractured his acetabulum.
Jo winces.
JO
Ouch.
LINK
Oh, it gets better.
JO
There’s more?
Link gives her a look.
LINK
His femoral head ended up in his rectum.
Jo stares at him.
A beat.
JO
His what ended up where?
Link nods.
LINK
Yep.
JO
How does that even happen?
LINK
That was pretty much everyone's reaction.
Jo lets out an incredulous laugh.
JO
Oh, my God.
LINK
Anyway, we got him into surgery.
Had to reduce the femur, repair the rectum, plate the pelvis.
JO
No complications?
LINK
Had some bleeding from the iliac vein, but Griffith handled the repair. Did a great job.
JO
Good for her. And how's he doing?
LINK
Stable when I left.
JO
Good.
She shakes her head, still amused.
JO (CONT'D)
All that for a fraternity?
LINK
Yep.
JO
Well, I hope he gets in.
LINK
At this point, I think he's earned it.
Jo laughs.
The microwave beeps.
Link retrieves his plate and joins her at the counter, settling onto the stool beside her.
They sit close together, turned toward each other as they talk.
JO
Suddenly my day doesn't sound so bad.
She takes a spoonful of yogurt.
LINK
Oh, yeah? What happened?
JO
Nothing. You know. One of those days.
Link looks at her, waiting.
Jo shrugs.
JO
Well, for starters, I burned the mac and cheese.
LINK
So that's what that smell was.
Jo gives him a look.
JO
I was distracted.
Link smiles and takes a bite of lasagna.
JO (CONT'D)
And I spent an embarrassing amount of time trying to thread this stupid sewing machine.
LINK
Any luck?
JO
Eventually. Thanks to Toni, actually.
LINK
Toni?
JO
Turns out she knows her way around a sewing machine.
She and Amelia ended up staying most of the afternoon.
Link looks at her.
LINK
Yeah, Luna mentioned that. I thought they were taking Scout to see the ferryboats.
JO
They were.
But Toni helped me with the costume, and Scout wasn't exactly in a hurry to leave Luna.
Link smiles.
JO (CONT’D)
You know how he gets when he's made up his mind.
He nods.
JO (CONT'D)
It was nice, actually. Having them here.
LINK
And how was Scout with Toni?
JO
Good.
I'm not sure how much he understands yet, but he seemed comfortable with her.
LINK
That's good.
JO
Yeah. I like her.
LINK
Well, let’s see how long it lasts.
She gives him a playful swat on the arm.
JO
Stop.
They make a great couple.
LINK
I’m kidding...
(a beat)
Hope it works out.
Jo smiles, then looks down at her yogurt.
JO (CONT'D)
I felt bad, though. They were supposed to spend the afternoon together, not spend it bailing me out.
Link sets down his fork and turns toward her.
LINK
Bailing you out?
Jo shrugs.
JO
I was having a bit of a moment when they got here.
Link's expression softens.
Jo catches it.
JO (CONT'D)
I’m okay. I was just exhausted.
Link rests a hand on her thigh, gently brushing his thumb across it.
A beat.
JO (CONT'D)
Anyway, Scout and Luna had a great time.
Link lets her move on.
LINK
Yeah?
JO
Until they started arguing about whose bubbles were bigger.
Link laughs.
LINK
Of course they did.
Jo shakes her head, smiling.
JO
Nardie definitely earned her paycheck today.
Those two were bouncing off the walls.
LINK
I bet.
LINK (CONT’D)
And how were the girls?
JO
Fussy. Peyton's tummy's still bothering her. And she wouldn't let me put her down for a while.
LINK
Still?
JO
Yeah.
A beat.
JO (CONT’D)
Thank God Nardie stayed longer than planned.
The girls really gave us a run for our money tonight.
She looks at him.
JO (CONT'D)
And Scout wasn't even here.
Link gives a small, knowing smile.
LINK
Maybe we cut back Nardie's hours a little too soon.
Jo looks at him.
JO
I'm home now, Link.
LINK
I know but—
JO
I'm a stay-at-home mom. I should be able to take care of my kids.
Link shifts toward her, giving her his full attention.
LINK
Jo.
Just because you're home doesn't mean you have to do everything yourself.
Jo lowers her eyes.
Link gently squeezes her thigh.
LINK
I know you feel like you have to. But you don't.
He gives her a little smile.
LINK (CONT'D)
Look, if we have to hire two Nardies just so you can have a little time for yourself, we'll hire two Nardies.
Jo laughs.
JO
We are not hiring two nannies.
LINK
I'm just saying.
Jo plays along.
JO
And how exactly would we pay for two Nardies?
Link considers this.
LINK
Haven't figured that part out yet.
Jo smiles, shaking her head.
JO
Well, the idea is not for you to take another job to pay for them.
LINK
Fair point.
He smiles.
LINK (CONT'D)
But seriously. Why don't we just go back to her old hours?
JO
She's already doing a lot.
LINK
But you’d get some help in the evenings when I'm stuck at the hospital.
Jo considers it.
She lowers her eyes, turning the spoon slowly in her yogurt.
Link waits.
JO
Maybe.
She looks up at him.
JO (CONT'D)
We can talk to her.
Link smiles, giving her thigh a gentle squeeze.
A moment passes.
Jo sets her yogurt aside.
She reaches over, takes Link's fork from his hand and steals a bite of lasagna.
Link looks at her.
LINK
I thought you weren't hungry.
JO
I'm not.
She takes another bite.
LINK
Right.
Jo smiles, chewing.
Link slides his plate a little closer to her.
LINK (CONT'D)
Here.
She takes another forkful before handing his fork back.
Link watches her, amused.
LINK (CONT'D)
So, how's the costume coming along?
Jo looks at him.
JO
You'll see.
LINK
That good, huh?
JO
Just wait.
Link studies her for a second, then smiles and goes back to eating.
A LITTLE LATER.
Link finishes eating and carries his plate to the dishwasher.
Jo is still at the counter, scrolling through photos of the kids on her phone.
LINK
I'm gonna go change.
JO
Okay.
He starts toward their downstairs bedroom.
LINK
Did you pick the movie yet?
Jo looks up.
JO
What?
LINK
It's Saturday. Movie night.
Jo makes a face.
JO
Link, we're on baby call. We should sleep when we can.
Link turns back toward her.
LINK
Come on. We love movie night.
JO
You know we're not making it through an entire movie.
LINK
We can try.
Jo gives him a look.
JO
Then you choose.
He grins and heads into their bedroom.
LINK
(in his best Godfather impression)
I’m gonna make you an offer you can’t refuse.
Jo shakes her head, smiling to herself.
CUT TO: LIVING ROOM — CANON SCENE.8:25 PM — CANON SCENE (IN EPISODE) — JO AND LINK ON THE COUCH
8:30 PM — JUST WHEN THINGS GET INTERESTING
INT. LINCOLN HOUSE — LIVING ROOM — EVENING
CONTINUOUS FROM THE CANON SCENE.
Jo and Link are still curled up together on the couch, facing each other. His hands rest on her knees, her fingers absently running through his hair.
LINK
What time did the girls eat?
JO
Six. Why?
LINK
Just doing some math.
Jo gives him a knowing look.
JO
They're not exactly on a perfect schedule.
LINK
Yeah, but they've been giving us some longer stretches these past few nights.
JO
Don't jinx it.
LINK
I'm not jinxing anything.
He smiles at her.
LINK (CONT'D)
But we might actually have a little time to ourselves.
Jo smiles, still unconvinced.
JO
Might.
LINK
Then we shouldn't waste any time.
His hand slides from her knee to her waist as he leans in to kiss her.
Jo smiles against his lips, kissing him back.
When he pulls away, she gives him an amused look.
JO
I thought you wanted to watch a movie.
LINK
Changed my mind.
He kisses her again, a little more deliberately this time.
Jo lets out a soft laugh against his lips, her hand slipping around the back of his neck.
He draws her closer, his other hand settling at her hip.
She shifts toward him, and he deepens the kiss, his fingers slipping beneath the hem of her sweatshirt to rest against her waist.
Jo pulls back slightly, her fingers resting at the back of his neck.
Their eyes meet.
She smiles, then leans in to kiss him again.
Link draws her closer, gradually leaning into her as she begins to ease back against the cushions.
A faint cry comes through the baby monitor.
They freeze, their faces still inches apart.
Silence.
Link glances toward the monitor, then back at Jo.
She gives him a look.
He gives her a hopeful little smile.
Jo pulls him back into another kiss.
They've barely resumed kissing when a second cry comes through the monitor, louder this time.
They both stop.
Jo pulls away, looking at him.
JO
See? You jinxed it!
Link closes his eyes for a moment.
LINK
Okay. That one might be on me.
Jo laughs.
He steals one last kiss before reluctantly pulling away.
LINK (CONT'D)
I'll go.
JO
You sure?
LINK
Yeah.
He gets to his feet.
LINK (CONT'D)
Don't go anywhere.
Jo smiles as he heads toward the stairs.
INT. LINCOLN HOUSE — NURSERY — MOMENTS LATER
The room is dim, lit only by the night-light.
Hattie fusses in her bassinet, shifting inside her sleep sack.
Peyton sleeps undisturbed in the bassinet beside her.
Link approaches Hattie.
LINK
(whisper)
Hey, little lady.
He spots her pacifier beside her in the bassinet.
LINK (CONT'D)
Oh. There it is.
He picks it up and gently offers it to her.
Hattie takes it.
Almost immediately, her fussing subsides.
Link smiles.
LINK (CONT'D)
That's all you wanted?
He rests a hand lightly against her chest.
Hattie's eyes drift closed.
Link watches her for a moment, making sure she's settled.
He glances toward Peyton.
Still asleep.
He quietly leaves the nursery.
INT. LINCOLN HOUSE — LIVING ROOM — MOMENTS LATER
Link comes downstairs.
The couch is empty.
He looks toward the downstairs bedroom.
A small smile crosses his face.
He picks up the baby monitor and heads that way.INT. LINCOLN HOUSE — JO AND LINK'S BEDROOM — CONTINUOUS
The bedroom is softly lit.
Jo stands at the dresser mirror, brushing her hair.
She's changed into an oversized T-shirt and underwear.
Her back is to the door.
Link steps inside.
She catches his reflection in the mirror.
JO
Already?
LINK
Yeah. Hattie just lost her pacifier.
He sets the baby monitor on the nightstand.
Jo smiles faintly and sets down her hairbrush.
Link approaches her from behind, slipping his arms around her waist.
She leans back against him, watching him in the mirror.
He gently brushes her hair aside and kisses her neck.
Then, close to her ear—
LINK
(whispering)
So where were we?
Jo smiles.
She turns in his arms and kisses him.
Link draws her closer, deepening the kiss.
Jo slips her hands around his neck, her fingers moving into his hair.
Without breaking their embrace, Link guides her toward the bed.
He gently eases her back onto the mattress, leaning over her as their lips meet again.
She reaches for the hem of his shirt, helping him pull it over his head.
Link lets it fall to the floor.
She draws him back toward her, wrapping her arms around him.
Their kisses become more passionate.
His hand slips beneath the hem of her T-shirt.
Jo pulls him closer, meeting his kiss.
For a moment, everything outside this room disappears.
FADE OUT.
INT. LINCOLN HOUSE — JO AND LINK'S BEDROOM — A LITTLE LATER
Beneath the sheets, Link moves slowly above Jo, her arms wrapped around him, her hands against his bare back.
She draws him closer for a lingering kiss.
Their movements gradually slow, then still.
Link stays close for a moment, catching his breath, his forehead resting against hers.
Jo's hands remain on his upper back, holding him close.
He lifts his head and looks at her for a moment before kissing her again, softly.
Then, slowly, he eases onto his back beside her, letting out a long, contented breath.
Jo moves with him, settling naturally against his chest.
His arm slips around her.
She rests a hand against his chest, her fingers moving lazily through the hair there.
Link gently brushes her hair away from her face, then lets his fingers trail slowly over her bare shoulder.
Jo lifts her head to look at him.
He kisses her.
A slow, tender kiss.
She smiles and settles against him again, her fingers returning to his chest.
For a while, neither speaks.
Link glances down at her, a small, satisfied smile on his face.
LINK
Well, that beats movie night.
Jo laughs softly against his chest.
JO
Mmm.
Link smiles, running his fingers gently through her hair.
She moves a little closer.
He kisses the top of her head.
A few minutes pass.
They lie together in comfortable silence.
The baby monitor remains quiet on the nightstand.
After a while—
LINK
We should probably get some sleep.
Jo lifts her head to look at him.
JO
Yeah. We should.
A beat.
Instead, she shifts onto him, leaning down to kiss him again.
Link smiles against her lips, his arms slipping around her, drawing her closer.
CUT TO BLACK.
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