Fire Country Season 2 Episode 2 Review: Like Breathing Again

Bode realizes that not all is the same at Three Rock on Fire Country on Season 2, Episode 2, “Like Breathing Again.”

Under the assumption that he could quickly reintegrate back into life at Three Rock as if nothing has changed in the past six months, Bode begins acting like his usual self again. He’s not thinking about how his actions could affect those around or in charge of him, aka Eve.

“Like Breathing Again” is heavily storyline-centered as we see Bode begin making amends with his loved ones and attempting to connect with his potential newfound daughter. The episode maintains this focus as the Station 42 and Three Rock crews navigate a dangerous cave rescue for a group of teenagers.

Old Habits Make a Return

Instead of thinking about how his actions could negatively impact her, we see Bode address Eve as his equal in front of the Three Rock crew and undermine her authority by deliberately going against her orders, all so he can make a good impression in front of Genevieve.

Rather than allowing this mentality to follow him in future episodes, the series makes the correct move by correcting his behavior in the same episode it is introduced.

At his core, Bode’s character is defined by how passionately he loves those closest to him and the levels to which he would go to protect them. That’s no different for his friendship with Eve, which is why his actions throughout the episode feel like a slap in the face to her.

Being checked can be good or bad, but in Bode’s case, it’s what’s best for him. Eve is the first woman chief of Three Rock, and while her dedication to improving the program for everyone is a feat she can achieve on her own, it’s always better when the people in your corner support you.

Besides, at this point, Eve is one of Bode’s only real friends who will look out for him diligently, so it wouldn’t make sense for him to continue inadvertently driving a wedge between the two.

Hopefully, moving forward, he can start taking what Cole says with a grain of salt and not let it get in his head because he played a significant factor in Bode’s rebellion.

Am I The Father?

As frustrating as having to sit and watch Bode actively go against Eve’s orders, it’s a refreshing sight to see the qualities that make him a fan-favorite front and center.

Instead of trying to deny him potentially being a father upon learning that Genevive could be his daughter, he goes above and beyond to ensure he’s someone she can look up to and be proud. It’s why he’s so adamant about being seen as a hero in front of her when accompanying Three Rock at the cave rescue.

His actions on-site prompt a heart-warming conversation between him and Cara, and it’s one of the best moments of “Like Breathing Again.” Rather than Bode blaming Cara for keeping his potential fatherhood a secret for so many years and being upset, he’s attempting to step up to the plate in all aspects of his life as much as he can.

In return, Cara provides affirmation, assuring Bode that he’s doing well by wanting to work towards becoming the father he knows he can be. It’s a brief moment in the span of the 44-minute episode, but the gravity of the situation packs a memorable punch for both viewers and Bode.

Speed Racer

Issues between Vince and Sharon began towards the backend of Season 1, ramping up towards the very end, and it’s clear that will be a prominent feature in Sharon’s storyline this season.

To take her mind off of Bode’s situation, she’s keeping herself at arm’s length with Vince, cutting off all connection with him, and finding an escape through daredevil actions. This is highlighted through her street racing with random people at night and having to be sent home via Vince for berating a victim stuck in the cave after their rescue.

Thankfully, the episode also brings a bit of progress to Bode and Sharon’s relationship towards the end. Instead of continuing to freeze him out, she makes an effort and explains her reasoning for ghosting him during a quick visit.

In turn, Sharon’s actions lead her to open up with Vince as well, voicing her frustrations about him not accompanying her away from Edgewater at the end of Season 1 Episode 22, “I Know It Feels Impossible.”

As invigorating as it is to kick off the season, I’m not sure how long her infidelity can be an appealing factor to deal with despite the drama accompanying it.

I hope the series will focus on the trials between the two for a short period and then on reintegrating her into Bode’s life.

What did you think of this episode of Fire Country? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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Fire Country airs on Fridays at 9/8c on CBS.

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