Vernon and Paul are out in a rural community, trying to buy a bassinet for Vernon and Becca's coming child. After a stop for refueling, Paul's car breaks down on a deserted road. With no cell service and no water in the car, Vernon goes into the woods to look for a stream and Paul follows. The two get hopelessly lost, and it eventually gets dark. Throughout the day, the two bond, which eventually leads to them complaining about Becca and Lindsay's behavior. Paul is disgusted with how Lindsay is having sex with other men right in front of him and Vernon hates how shrill and controlling Becca is. Vernon suggests they take off for Mexico and leave their lives behind, and Paul later agrees. When they find their way back to the car, Paul has a change of heart and says he can't leave his child. Based on the price differential between gasoline and diesel, Paul deduces from a receipt that Vernon pumped diesel fuel into the car's gas tank. Paul accuses Vernon of sabotage, and Vernon admits to the deed, saying he did not want to return home to Becca and his miserable life. Vernon makes plans to go to San Diego with a good Samaritan motorist, but when he realizes the bassinet is gone, he thinks about his child and decides to get in the car with Paul instead.
Tropes
- Awful Wedded Life: Both Vernon and Paul's marriages are this and they bond with each other over their shared suffering.
- Best Friends-in-Law: Vernon and Paul become more friendly with each other through their ordeal (though there are some natural arguments as well).
- Chekhov's Skill: One of Paul's many hobbies includes birdwatching. He's able to use this to identify a bird's call and find a way back to their car.
- A Day in the Limelight: For Paul and Vernon.
- Screw This, I'm Outta Here: Vernon seriously suggests he and Paul run away to Mexico. Ultimately, they aren't able to go through with it.
- Wet Blanket Wife: Vernon regards Becca as one. While she's indeed a Control Freak, he's also a gigantic Manchild, so it's only natural they'd clash.
