The fifth episode of "Apples Never Fall," titled "Troy," delves into the life of Troy Delaney, portrayed by Jake Lacy, as he grapples with the aftermath of his mother's disappearance and the dark secrets that haunt the Delaney family. This episode is a poignant exploration of Troy's internal and external conflicts, shedding light on his complex relationship with his father, Stan, and the lengths he is willing to go to protect his family's image.
The episode opens with a flashback to Troy's childhood, where a tennis match with his father, Stan, takes a violent turn, revealing the deep-seated resentment and anger that Troy harbors towards his father. This tension sets the stage for the present-day narrative, where Troy's suspicions about Stan's involvement in Joy's disappearance begin to solidify. Troy's accusation that Stan cheated him in the past echoes throughout the episode, highlighting the underlying theme of betrayal and the struggle for power within the family.
As detectives Elena Camacho and Ethan Remy uncover a newspaper clipping in Savannah's rented room, suggesting that she had been plotting to infiltrate the Delaney family, they confront Stan and Troy with this new evidence. Stan's quick decision to throw Troy under the bus, redirecting the detectives' suspicions towards his son, further exacerbates the rift between father and son. This moment is a pivotal turning point, as it reveals the extent to which family members are willing to sacrifice one another to preserve their own interests.
Troy's relationship with Lucia Fortino takes center stage as he admits his affair and his feelings for her, despite the consequences. His decision to gift her a necklace is a symbol of his commitment, yet it also serves as a catalyst for the conflict that ensues. The necklace becomes a tangible representation of Troy's transgressions, leading to a confrontation with Monty Fortino that threatens to expose the truth about Troy's affair and his potential involvement in his mother's disappearance.
Meanwhile, Amy's determination to keep her mother's case alive is met with a harsh reality as she learns of another missing person receiving more attention. Her decision to use social media to amplify her mother's story is a testament to her resilience and her willingness to go to great lengths to uncover the truth. Amy's actions resonate with the audience, as they reflect the desperation and helplessness felt by many in the face of a loved one's disappearance.
Logan's subplot adds another layer to the family's dynamics, as he struggles with the aftermath of his own relationship and the implications of his mother's disappearance on his life. His search for insurance information and his conversation with Indira reveal the emotional distance that has grown between them, mirroring the broader disintegration of the Delaney family.
The episode reaches a climax with the revelation of Savannah's encounter with Stan, which she describes as uncomfortable and vulnerable. Stan's insistence that Savannah is a con artist and his demand for her removal from the family home sets off a chain of events that lead to Joy's confession about her role in Harry's departure. This confession is a bombshell that shakes the foundation of the Delaney family, as it reveals the extent to which Joy was willing to go to protect her children from Stan's tyranny.
In the present, Troy's decision to come clean to the detectives about his family's secrets is a pivotal moment of truth. His admission is a stark contrast to the lies and deceit that have characterized the Delaney family's response to Joy's disappearance. Troy's actions signal a breaking point, as he can no longer bear the weight of the family's secrets and the potential guilt of his father's involvement in his mother's disappearance.
"Troy" is an episode that peels back the layers of the Delaney family's facade, revealing the deep-seated issues and secrets that have been festering beneath the surface. As the family grapples with Joy's disappearance and the potential implications of their own actions, the episode leaves viewers with a sense of anticipation for what the next chapter in this gripping family drama will bring. Troy's story is a microcosm of the larger family dynamics, and his journey through this episode is a testament to the power of truth and the consequences of a life built on lies.