**Spoilers Ahead**

After a rough patch this season, the latest episode of 9-1-1: Lone Star was on damage control. There were some great character moments along with some questionable ones. Ultimately, the latest episode of 9-1-1: Lone Star was a perfectly adequate, middle-of-the road entry for the series. 

T.K. (Ronen Rubinstein) was mainly left dealing with the repercussions of Episode 12. His attending 90 AA meetings in 90 days is a familiar step for many who have walked the road of addiction. It’s always been commendable that 9-1-1: Lone Star has portrayed this story, with addiction still being so stigmatized and misunderstood in our society. 

The main focus of this storyline, however, was how Carlos (Rafael Silva) navigated the challenges of being a partner to someone facing addiction. Initially, I confess I was disappointed with the choice to portray Carlos as so jealous of Cooper (Josh Plasse), T.K.’s sponsor. However, on consideration, it was actually an incredibly effective way to illustrate the relationship between the person with the addiction and their sponsor, since there are still so many misconceptions. 

One of the absolute highlights of this episode was Tommy (Gina Torres) and the continued reflection on her grief journey. It’s so good to see the show has continued this storyline, rather than just dropping it all together. Her grief group is made up of an amazing cast of characters, representing the many faces of the grieving process. Hightown fans can be forgiven for balking, seeing Amaury Nolasco in a completely different role. For the record, Tommy and Morris make a very cute couple. In their own time. 

The other dynamic that was so lovely to see this episode was Grace (Sierra McClain) and Tommy’s friendship. These two should get so much more time on screen together than they do. As a side note, of course Grace would be reading ‘The Highly Sensitive Child: Helping Our Children Thrive when the World Overwhelms Them’ by Dr. Elaine Aron to be the best mom she can be. Seriously, Grace not only gives impeccable advice, but is clearly the best kind of friend, to support you exactly where you are. 

As is typical, the weakest moments of this episode belonged to Owen (Rob Lowe). As insufferable as Owen is, this episode did give him hilarious moments. His teaching his dog not to eat the cat, and meeting Catherine’s (Amy Acker) ex-husband. This bizarre relationship came to an abrupt end this episode, and that’s probably for the best. With how wild this series can get at times, however, it would be unwise to think that this is definitively the last we’ll see of these two. It’s a shame Catherine was only able to see Owen for what he was just now when he has literally been this way for the entire series.

9-1-1: Lone Star has had an uneven season, to say the least. This episode managed to avoid much of the worst of what this series has to offer. Although as always far more time was devoted to Owen and his misadventures rather than the far more compelling stories of those around him, there were definitely enough character moments to keep the story engaging. Hopefully, as the series approaches the last few episodes, 9-1-1: Lone Star can focus on what gives it the most potential. 

9-1-1: Lone Star airs Mondays 9/8c on Fox