The second episode of "Laid" (2024), titled "FB to the T," continues Ruby's (Stephanie Hsu) exploration of the mysterious pattern surrounding the deaths of her ex-boyfriends. The episode begins with Ruby and AJ (Zosia Mamet) learning about the death of David due to sepsis. This revelation is quickly followed by Ruby remembering her agreement to adopt Brandon's Saint Bernard, adding to the chaos of her life.
As Ruby and AJ discuss the upcoming wedding of Ruby's ex, Robert, AJ points out that Ruby was once on the verge of marrying him. Ruby dismisses the memory as ancient history, but AJ reminds her that it's a reminder that everyone else has moved on while Ruby is still searching for her path. The conversation takes an unexpected turn when Zack Bridgerton (Andre Hyland) arrives in a kimono, his wedding attire, adding a touch of humor to the serious discussion.
Later, AJ reveals a potential connection between the deaths of Ruby's exes, noting that Brandon, Jeffrey, and David were all born in a small California town that experienced a toxic spill the same year they were born. Ruby dismisses the idea as a coincidence, pointing out that many of her other exes are doing fine.
At the bar where AJ works, the two friends discuss another ex, Stu Jackward, who Ruby fondly remembers. Their conversation is interrupted by AJ's preoccupation with her phone, as she reveals she has broken up with Zack and is trying to erase all traces of their relationship. The evening takes a tragic turn when Stu is hit by a foul ball at a baseball game, leading Ruby to visit Dr. Banooni for a check-up, fearing that something about her might be causing these deaths. Despite receiving a clean bill of health, Ruby remains uneasy, questioning if there could be something harmful about her.
In a lighter moment, Ruby meets with Isaac (Tommy Martinez) to discuss his parents' anniversary party. Despite initial awkwardness, they find common ground in their love for Billy Crystal movies. However, the meeting takes a turn when Ruby learns that Isaac has a girlfriend who is a marine biologist.
As AJ tries to connect the dots between the deaths, Ruby returns home from a session with her therapist, Debra (Elizabeth Bowen), and realizes that AJ is using Ruby's problems as a distraction from her own. Ruby encourages AJ to focus on living their best lives, a sentiment they carry with them to Robert's wedding.
The wedding proves to be a disaster for Ruby, who embarrasses herself by confronting Robert for not giving her a plus-one. Feeling humiliated, Ruby finds herself at the bar with Zack, who is also having a terrible time. Their conversation leads to them leaving the wedding together, smoking and drinking. Zack offers Ruby a new perspective on her situation with Robert, and by the end of the night, they seem to be hitting it off, confirmed when Ruby wakes up next to him the next morning.
The following morning, Ruby and Zack panic about their unexpected encounter before Ruby realizes she has to work. She arrives hungover to the smelt tasting portion of Isaac's planning, where she meets Merci (Olivia Holt), who shares her connection with Isaac's mother and the charity she volunteers with. Isaac notices Ruby's low spirits and encourages her to apologize to AJ, which she attempts to do when she returns home.
However, AJ blurts out that she and Zack have reconciled, putting their differences aside despite their recent indiscretions. AJ also reveals that Robert announced he has lymphoma during his speech, and the men are dying in the order that Ruby slept with them. This revelation leaves Ruby and AJ with more questions than answers, setting the stage for further exploration of the mysterious pattern in the upcoming episodes.
"FB to the T" is a compelling episode that delves deeper into the complexities of Ruby's life, her relationships, and the mysterious pattern that continues to unfold. The blend of humor, drama, and suspense keeps viewers engaged, eager to see how Ruby will navigate these challenges and uncover the truth behind the deaths of her ex-boyfriends.