Dylan’s torn when Emma tells him about her conversation with Caleb, but ultimately, he’s relieved. How is he supposed to explain Uncle-Dad to little Kate? Caleb has left a note and is gone.

With nowhere to go, Caleb takes a bus to White Pine Bay. He bangs at the door of Norma’s house, calling her name. He gets inside through an unlocked back door. He’s confused by how dirty everything is. Norma was always so neat. Dirty, dusty dishes are piled up, egg shells and empty cartons litter the floor. He goes upstairs still looking, but no one’s there. He’s walks outside feeling ill-at-ease.

Alex starts a fight in the prison kitchen. He has a concussion and may need to be relocated. Closer to Norman perhaps? He has a score to settle. Norman doesn’t know how lucky he is that Alex is locked up. And now Caleb’s in White Pine Bay. I didn’t expect to see him so soon.

In town, Norman sips coffee in a cafe across from Madeline’s store, watching her. Norman hides behind a newspaper when she notices him and comes over to say hello. He tries to act surprised. Madeline sits down and tells Norman she’d like to set him up with a friend of hers. He’s not too interested until Madeline’s husband walks in. It’s Sam Loomis, alias “David Davidson”. Norman stares at Sam while Madeline prattles along about her friend and a double date. Hey, how ‘bout tonight? Why the hell not?

Norman arrives home to find Norma practicing her French on the hi-fi. He tells his mother he knows that Alex is trying to hurt him. A sly Norma says she can handle him.

Chick is at the door, stopping by to check on Norman. Norma can’t stand him and finds him annoying, so she makes herself scarce. He’s brought a box of apples, and a business proposition. Norman suggests they go into the basement, and an apple-chomping Chick follows right along.  He has a bird in a sack, and is interested in Norman’s taxidermy skills. Chick says he really needs money. He is unable to support himself since Caleb’s beating. Chick says he can supply the subjects, Norman can stuff ‘em and they can share profits. Norman agrees and they share an uneasy truce.

Caleb checks in at a local motel. He hears of Norma’s death from the desk clerk. He’s stunned and hurt. He can’t understand why Dylan didn’t say anything.

Sam Loomis stops by the Bates Motel to warn Norman to stay out of his business. Norman acts pious and tells Sam he isn’t showing much respect to his wife. Oh, if Sam only knew about you, Norman…

Caleb goes to find Norma’s headstone. His heart is broken and he falls to his knees, sobbing. There are no words for his grief. Tissue break… okay.

Back at the Bates house, Norma is suspicious about Norman’s double-date. Norma is worried because she won’t be there to help him. She’s sarcastic and sly, and today, she is bored. She’s decided to take up smoking.Why not? She’s dead. Norman is against the idea and hopes she won’t light up again, but he’s got a date to keep. The foursome have dinner in town. Norman has a lot of pointed questions for Sam. Sam’s out of town a lot, doing exactly what? He works in Seattle? So far from home? Sam says the hardware store is Melissa’s baby. Norman enjoys playing this cat and mouse game with Sam. Every question seems to poke a hole in Sam and Melissa’s marriage. Norman’s date learns of Norma’s suicide and gives Norman her condolences. Still sticking with that suicide story, eh, Norman? In the men’s room, Norma pops up in a sleek black outfit and hat and asks Norman a lot of questions about his date. Norma is so different now. Her outfits these days are less and less “motherly”. They are sexier. I suppose that’s how Norman sees her in his fractured mind – she’s more conspirator than mother. Norman isn’t glad to see her and insists she go out the bathroom window and wait for him in the car. Once he joins her in the car, she is livid. She can clearly see that Melissa resembles her, only younger. Norma decides she needs a drink, and Norman follows her into the pub. They chat with the bartender. What’s interesting is that it’s a three-way conversation with the bartender, Norma and Norman. They never miss a beat. Well done Freddie and Vera! The Bates are definitely morphing into some kind of psycho-sexual deviant.

In another pub, Caleb runs into Chick. Chick goes against all sensibility and asks Caleb how his son with Norma is doing. Hasn’t his ass been kicked enough already? Chick feels bad when he realizes Caleb just learned about his sister’s death. Caleb steps outside for some air. He knew Norma was being consumed by Norman, and he told her Norman is dangerous. He’s still reeling thinking about Norma. His beloved Norma. Right or wrong.

Norman’s back home after his date. He’s entering Mother-mode and goes into Norma’s closet to find something cute to wear. Caleb is right behind him in a taxi and smashes his way into the house, screaming for Norman. He knows Norman is responsible and wants Norman dead. Join the club, Caleb. He goes into the basement and finds Norma’s shrine. He stands there in shock. Norman comes up behind him and whacks him in the head. It’s not looking good for Caleb. It’s not like Norman can let him go.

Norman is full-Norma now. The dress, the blonde wig… the lipstick. And my, what bushy eyebrows you have, “Norma”!  Of course Chic is there, he’s always there. He stares at Norman with awe and disbelief. Norman says girlishly, “Well, now you know Chick, I’m still alive.”

I don’t think knowledge is power in White Pine Bay.

Bates Motel airs on A&E Mondays at 10pm/9c

Norman heads to town to look for some paint to spruce up the motel. Village Hardware is under new management, and Norman walks in to look around. The owner, Madeline Loomis (Isabelle McNally), a pretty blonde, looks a lot like Norma. I don’t feel confident that she will be in too many more episodes, but you never know. Norman chooses a few paint samples, and pulls out his wallet to pay. He opens it to find that it isn’t his wallet, it belongs to a man named Jim Blackwell. Norman mumbles his apologies and promises to come back when he has his wallet. Back at home, Norman asks Norma if she’s seen his wallet, she says she last saw it on his dresser. She suggests putting Blackwell’s wallet into the motel safe. Just in case someone comes looking for it – Ha! Norman decides to check his blackout log.

Dylan and Emma are thriving in Seattle, and now have a baby girl. When Norma died, Norman told Dylan that Mother wanted to cut all ties so they have had no contact. It’s Emma’s birthday, and there are lots of friends there to celebrate. The doorbell rings and Emma answers the door to find Caleb, looking more pitiful than ever. His face just makes me sad. He looks like he needs a hug. He says he followed Dylan and Emma on Facebook, saw the baby, and felt the need to reconnect with family. Caleb asks to hold baby Kate, and Emma gives a nod that it’s okay.

Alex is still in the federal penitentiary, working on his prison muscles, still angry as hell. His parole has just been denied, but he still wants Norman dead and jail won’t stop him. He repeatedly makes calls from the prison phone, but he gets no answer. What are you up to, Alex?

Back at the motel, Norman scans the registry book, searching for Jim Blackwell (John Hainsworth). He’s not registered. Norman looks through the wallet and finds a receipt. The date matches the date of one of his recent blackouts. Surprise, surprise.

He’s also received a bill for Luminol and is arguing the charge with the merchant on the phone. While Norman’s on the phone, a man enters, wishing to rent a room for a few hours. A smarmy Norman explains that the motel doesn’t operate that way, and makes the guy pay for an overnight stay. He registers as David Davidson (Austin Nichols). Norman gives him Room 1, right next to the office. He looks outside and sees the man helping a woman out of the car and into the room.  Norman hurries into the back room to the peephole he made under a painting on the wall. He watches the couple make love and decides it’s a good time for some pocket pool. The phone rings, and Norman buckles up with one hand and answers the phone with the other. It’s Norma on the phone asking him what he’s doing. Geez! Busted by his mother from beyond the grave!

Later, Norman heads up to the house for dinner. He asks Mother about a bill for Luminol. Norma knows nothing about it.  He says that he hates having blackouts, but dismisses Norma’s suggestion that he start taking his meds again. Norma notices the paint swatches, and is very curious about Madeline Loomis. Norman bristles at the interrogation, asking Norma what her problem is. Norma rants about the sacrifices she’s made just to keep Norman safe and happy.  Alive or not, Norma is angry. She reminds Norman of their “agreement”; she pretends to be dead so she can protect him. Oookay, so how ‘bout those meds? That night, a restless Norman gets out of bed without waking Norma. He sneaks out of the room and heads to the basement. He sits at the feet of the real Norma, resting his head on her lap. Poor dead Norma is wide-eyed and propped up in the macabre shrine that Norman created for her.

The next day, Norman finds the motel safe open, just as Madeline Loomis stops by with some paint samples. Norman has his wallet this time and pays Madeline before walking her to her car.  She invites him to a meeting in town for small business owners that evening. Norman sees Mother watching from a window in the house.

Dylan tells Emma that Caleb risked his life to get the money for her transplant. He doesn’t feel that he can turn him away. Emma speaks to Caleb privately later that evening. She is so very grateful to Caleb, but she has to protect her man. She tells Caleb to keep it moving. She fears Caleb’s presence will complicate Dylan’s relationship with his daughter. Sad Caleb agrees to go. Now Emma is the one looking out for Dylan. She is strong in so many ways now.

And none of them know about Norma.

Norman decides to attend the small-business meeting despite Mother’s objections. She doesn’t want him to use the car, but he decides to go anyway. Before he can back out of his parking space, Mother is behind the car. Boy, she’s quick for a dead woman!  She’s angry and drags Norman back to the house by his ear. She hustles him into the house and down into the basement to the freezer. She opens the freezer to show Norman why he needs her. Jim Blackwell is in there, wrapped in a shower curtain. Norman has flashes of Jim coming to the motel looking to hurt him, and Norma slashing at Jim, blood everywhere. They load Jim into the trunk of the car, and then into a rowboat. Once they’ve rowed out far enough, they lift the body, ready to throw it overboard. Jim’s cell phone begins to ring, and Norman decides to answer it. It’s a recording, asking Norman to accept a call from a federal correctional facility. Norman presses 1 to accept the call. He listens silently. It’s Alex, trying again to reach Jim. Unfortunately, Jim is indisposed. Well, now we know what Alex is up to.

Bates Motel airs on A&E Mondays at 10pm/9c

Although I knew Norma’s death was imminent, it still shocked and dismayed me. It felt too soon! This night, we meet in front of the motel. The strobe lights of emergency vehicles turn faces red, then blue, then red again. Norman lies dazed on a stretcher, not sure what’s happening. He sees another ambulance but no sign of Mother. He’s taken to the Emergency Room where he’s assessed and released. When he asks the nurse who will be taking him home, she has to break the news that his mother has died and she’ll need to summon an orderly to make transport arrangements. Norman’s face is blank. Alex arrives to pick Norman up from the hospital so they can have a little chat, then head home, or somewhere.

First chance he gets he grabs Norman by the throat and slams him into the wall, shaking Norman like a ragdoll and telling him he’ll make sure that he pays for what he has done. You don’t want to incur the wrath of Sheriff Romero. (Right, Bob Paris?) Alex is angry enough to kill Norman who’s been a thorn in his side since day one. Norman shrugs off Alex’s grasp and advises Alex that he’d best stay away from the funeral, it’s private.

Alex is disgusted and I’m disgusted. What the hell, Norman?? Once home, Norman sits and eats alone with a place set for Norma. Her empty chair is sad to see. It doesn’t give Norman much of an appetite, either.

Norman goes upstairs to Mother’s room and lies in her bed, holding her pillow, talking to her as if she was there. Freddie Highmore’s opened up Norman’s bag of tricks and surprises you by drawing emotions out of you that you hadn’t even considered. I’m so very sad that Norma’s gone, and I’m sad for Alex and Dylan and even Norman, too. How will Caleb handle it when he finds out?

Alex goes to the morgue, tearfully demanding to see his wife’s body. Against morgue policy, he’s allowed to open the drawer she’s in and slide her out. He takes her hand and slides her wedding band back onto her finger. He kisses her and tells her how much he will always love her, and his tears wet her face. I’m trying to watch through tears. She’s really gone!

At home, Norman talks out loud to Mother while in the bathroom, staring into the mirror. He begins to methodically throw his psychiatric meds into the toilet. He’s interrupted by the ringing phone. It’s the White Pine Bay funeral director who, after extending his condolences, asks that Norman stop by to arrange the service and to bring a dress for Mother to wear. The funeral director asks if he should also contact Norma’s husband. Norman says he will handle all arrangements, goes home kicks the crap out of the 60” television Alex purchased, knocking it half way down the front steps.

A woman pulls up to the motel. She’s detective Chambers from the Oregon police. She has some questions for Norman. Don’t we all? He tells her how he lay in bed next to Norma and they fell asleep. Then he rants about how much disdain he has for Alex Romero. He’s still bitter about Norma’s marriage. Norman fusses with the bedcovers while he talks. He holds up a blue dress and asks the detective what she thinks. The detective can tell he’s not dealing with a full deck, says it’s a nice dress and decides to see herself out. Good move, Norman’s got that look in his eyes again.

Norman sits in the waiting room at the funeral home. The funeral director’s son leads him into the office. He has to decide about embalming, open or closed casket, the service, her eulogy. Norman pleads to see Norma. He’s told it’s not a good idea to view the body while it’s still in the prep room, but they make an exception. Norman touches her cold face, then slides her wedding band off while holding her hand. He hallucinates that her eyes flash open for a moment, and must excuse himself. Those tears have finally started to fall a bit.

Alex stops by the furnace supply and repair shop, where he purchased the new furnace for Norma. He asks the installer if Norman was present when Mrs. Bates was warned about the carbon monoxide from the old furnace. Alex roughs the old man up for an answer. The poor guy stammers that he thinks Norman was there.

Back at the house, Norman rushes inside, thinking he hears Norma playing piano. He’s disappointed to enter a dark and empty house. Juno runs down the stairs to greet Norman. Uh-oh, a jumping Juno is never a good sign. Stuffed, mounted dogs don’t move in my world. I think we’re in crazy town again. Dylan calls Norman to let him know he’s decided to stay in White Pine Bay for a while to give him the support he needs. Norman says that he thinks Mother would have wanted them to sever ties. Dylan is speechless and they end their call. Again, what the hell, Norman?

It is the morning of the funeral, and Norman sits alone in the church. He tells the funeral director that there are no guests attending, so the service can start. Norman reads a glowing eulogy, that suddenly turns into a rant about God and his sucky Divine Plan. I had to clean that up a bit. Alex walks in and Norman tells him to get out, but not before smugly handing him Norma’s wedding ring. Alex clocks Norman using every bit of the anger he’s been holding back. Yeah, Alex, knock his block off! He’s removed from the church by the funeral director’s son, and heads to the police station where he angrily barges in to grab his gun. He’s half-mad with grief and anger. As Alex leaves, he walks right into the arms of DEA agents who bust him for perjury. After all, he did tell a federal agent that he had no personal relationship with Rebecca Howard. That Rebecca is like gum on your shoe, a sticky mess that’s hard to get rid of. The DEA probably saved Norman’s life, though. Damn!

Norman is having an argument in Norma’s bedroom, demanding that she make herself seen already. It’s too hard on his own, what is she waiting for? He drives to the cemetery, shovel in hand and begins to dig. He reaches the casket and pries it open. Norman’s so glad to see Norma. He holds his mom’s corpse and kisses her, and then puts her in the car. At home, he brings the body up the long flight of stairs. A barking Juno greets them at the door. Norman puts her on the sofa and tells her that it’s safe for her to open her eyes now, but she won’t. A little quick-bonding glue and some ingenuity, and those now opaque baby blues are eternally wide open. Egads! Norma is in a permanent state of ghoulish surprise. Norman keeps begging her to look at him.

There’s a knock at the door, and Chick is there with a casserole and words of sympathy. As usual, Chick lingers. He moves in close to look at Norman, telling him how sudden and difficult death can be. He asks Norman if he really understands that Norma is dead. One nut to another, he can see Norman’s not wrapped too tight. Chick promises to stop by every few days to check on Norman, then shuffles out the door. Norman tries to pull himself together, staring into Norma’s dead blue eyes, again begging her to look at him. So alone and confused, he begins to cry. He kisses her cheek and runs upstairs. He grabs the gun in Norma’s nightstand and puts it in his mouth but before he can pull the trigger, he hears the piano playing and Juno barking. Hey! The gang’s all here! Norman walks down the stairs into the living room to find Juno dancing around happily, and Mother playing piano in her Christmas finery. The decorations and lights are up and Norman is stunned and overjoyed. Norma smiles at Norman and pats the piano bench. She plays “I’ll be Home for Christmas” and he puts an arm around her waist. The changes Norman’s about to undergo are intriguing. It’s sad to lose Norma, but we know she’ll never truly leave us. She promised.

Things are going to get really crazy, be ready!
Bates Motel will return for Season 5
tonight on A&E
at 9/8c

It’s morning in the Bates household. Norma and Alex have their breakfast coffee and Norma says she’s optimistic that Norman can progress with his therapy as an outpatient. He’ll eventually accept having  Alex live with them, too. Is that an Irish coffee, Norma? Your son doesn’t seem too keen on change and you’re not that convincing. Alex is worried that Norman could hurt his mother, but she’s sure he won’t. She knows her son. She’s painfully encouraging as she tries to weave Norman back into her life while staying married to  Alex. They share a “have-a-good-day kiss,” and feel Norman’s icy glare. He’s frozen at the top of the stairs. He’s making me uneasy, I think he needs to be locked away again.

Norma drives Norman to Pineview for therapy with Dr. Edwards. In the car, Norma suggests that they all put up the Christmas decorations. Maybe it will help him get to know Alex. While in therapy, Norman tells Dr. Edwards exactly what he thinks about Alex being with his mother. He’s ranting and pacing, getting louder. He says that Alex took advantage of Norma’s loneliness. He goes on to say that she can be quite difficult to live with. She’ll begin to criticize her new spouse, to the point of driving him away and Norman says he’ll be the one to pick up the pieces, as usual. Every week, Norman reaches a new level of crazy. This week he’s the concerned caregiver, making Norma out to be the one who’s a mess. Well she is, but this is your session, Norman. Norman’s cocky and flippant, interrupting Dr. Edwards with what he thinks needs to happen. I wonder if Dr. Edwards has some kind of defense weapon in his office… I’m just saying. Norma is on her cell outside, checking in with Alex. He tries to convince Norma that her son belongs in the hospital. That boy ain’t right! Norma is upset, telling  Alex he isn’t even giving her son a chance, and she knows him best. On the ride back from Pineview, Norman puts on the charm, trying to make his mother smile.

Elsewhere, Rebecca Howard is being questioned by the DEA. They believe Alex murdered Bob Paris and want her to wear a wire and get his confession in exchange for leniency, which isn’t as great as getting the hell out of town.

A wired Rebecca meets Alex at the diner and tries to get him to reminisce about Bob. She flirts and peppers him with questions, but Alex plays dumb,then speaks directly into Rebecca’s blouse, telling the DEA their time could be better spent. Alex is one cool cat! Nestor Carbonell continues to develop the character of Alex, adding more depth and feeling as he slowly reveals Alex’s true heart.

Emma and Dylan are doing some last minute packing, but Dylan looks pale and uneasy. Alex calls Dylan and asks that they meet for coffee to discuss Norman. Alex expresses his concern about Norman being out of Pineview; he’s scared for Norma and asks Dylan if he’s ever seen Norman be violent. Dylan has, and he also worries about Norman being out of the hospital so soon. That explains why Dylan’s been so pale. It’s cold fear. Dylan agrees to help Alex have Norman legally committed. It’s required that at least two family members sign the request.

The next morning, Dylan takes a ride over to Bates Manor to speak with Norma. Dylan has Audrey Decody’s earring. He found it in Norman’s room. Dylan knows it’s not Norma’s. He has to chase Norma around the house as she tries to avoid the conversation. She’s scared of what that earring might mean. Dylan shouts at Norma, trying to make her realize how sick the situation is, how dangerous Norman is. Even Norman knows something’s wrong, but he’s acting “normal”.  Dylan tells his mother he has to leave town, get away from her and Norman and start his life with Emma. He’s done all he can. Norma chases Dylan down the walkway, screaming his name. He has the earing in his pocket and she wants it back. Norman comes out of the motel office when he hears all the commotion. Dylan roughly embraces Norman, begging him to please admit that he’s not okay and get help. Norman’s confused, asking his mom what’s going on as Dylan peels out for good.  

He asks her what happened. She says that Dylan thinks he should be back in Pineview. Norman asks if Alex feels the same way. She admits that he does, but she’ll handle it. Norman turns on the charm and the two share quite the creepy moment.

Later, Norma angrily marches into the police station, getting in Alex’s face about wanting Norman to be in  the hospital. Norma defends Norman, daring Alex to presume to know anything about her son. Look lady, he knows all he needs to know, and has seen all he needs to see.

Norman is in the attic rummaging around, and he finds a dirty suitcase full of moldy, bloody clothes and locks of hair. He examines each item closely, then decides, what the hell, I might as well put this moldy jacket on. Seeing his reflection in a old mirror freaks him out. What did ya do, Norman? He hurries outside and  buries the items before mom gets back. She comes home upset, and tells Norman he was right. She and Alex aren’t going to work out. Norman says he’s sorry. Norma opens the fridge, but is doubled over by a tidal wave of grief. She loves Alex. I feel her anger and frustration, the sorrow, the loneliness, and the love for her son with each sob. I’m tearing up, too.

Norman tries his best to comfort her. In her room, she writes a note to Alex, letting him know she will always love him, putting her rings inside the envelope. Norma sits in her bed and cries like a baby. Here I go again! Norman comes to check on her, and she asks him to come in. They sit against the headboard chatting like an old married couple. Norman says they ought to leave and start over in a new town. They could go to Oahu, like they always dreamed. Norman gets his mother to smile, then laugh. He says everything will be okay as long as they are always together.  Norman sings sweetly to his mother, lulling her to sleep. He kisses the top of her head and turns out the bedside lamp. He watches Norma sleep for a long while, then sneaks out of her room. My creep meter is going crazy right now. 

The son heads down to the cellar, and lights the furnace. He methodically goes to every vent in the house, and closes them all, except for the one under Norma’s bed, where he lays with his arm around her, ready for eternal sleep. Is he even Norman right now? Alex is compelled to stop by and check on Norma. He uses his key after getting no answer. He steps into the dark house calling for Norma, but there’s only silence. He runs upstairs to Norma’s room where she and Norman lay, unconscious. Alex breaks the window to let fresh air in and carries Norma out into the hall. He carries Norman out as well. Personally, I might pull Norman out – perhaps just a bit too late – whoops!  Alex tries CPR on Norma but she’s not responding. Alex sobs, screaming her name, refusing to give up, and once again I’m crying. Of course, Norman coughs and regains consciousness. He looks over and sees Alex crying over Norma. Excellent job this season, Nestor Carbonell. He broke my heart and he made me cry. I hope this isn’t the end for Norma! I’m with Alex, I’m not ready to say goodbye.

My blood ran cold this week. Norman is back home, and even I felt I should walk on eggshells. Despite Freddie Highmore’s adorable dimples, he scares the hell out of me; his Norman can make you afraid to turn your back on him. Naturally, he’s beside himself about Norma and Alex’s marriage. He’s gone as far as drilling a hole into the motel wall to silently watch Alex and Norma’s secret lovemaking. He cried; he felt misled, betrayed. He wants so badly to believe that it’s not real, going as far as to let Alex know that he’s now free to divorce Norma. Mighty generous of you, Norman! Alex is staying at his place for now. Norma hopes to ease Norman into accepting her need to be with a normal person. Good luck with that, Ma Bates, you’ve broken him.  

Dylan and Emma are getting ready to head to Seattle, but they’re not moving fast enough for me.  Norma convinced them to help pick out the family Christmas tree before leaving town. Really, Norma??? I don’t see a Norman Rockwell moment coming out of that. The day Dylan visited his brother at Pineview, he told him about his relationship with Emma. They were playing croquet at the time, and Norman said he was truly happy for them, and didn’t bash Dylan’s brains in. Huh.  There’s something very wrong in Norman’s eyes. There’s nothing there. He’s only saying what his family wants to hear. Playing the game. He even thanked Norma for helping him get the help he needs. I can’t forget what he said to Julian on his way out of Pineview. About how he could fool people, and act normal, but Julian was going to be there for life. He said it calmly enough, but there was obvious contempt for mental illness. Go figure. At the Christmas tree lot, mother and son argue about Alex. I love screaming-crazy Norma, and Vera Farmiga didn’t disappoint. Her range of emotion is staggering. She can make you laugh and cry at the same time. You can feel the strain of being Norman’s mother. Bravo, Vera! Norman screamed right back this time, upsetting himself enough to vomit up his hot chocolate. Norma storms off, and Dylan looks haunted standing there holding Emma.  

Meanwhile, Rebecca Howard is being stopped at the airport by the DEA. They want to talk to her about Bob Paris and Alex Romero. I thought Alex gave her Bob’s safety-deposit key, no strings attached. Bon Voyage. I’m not so sure about Alex’s motives anymore, but the DEA could just be baiting her, hoping to spook her into spilling the beans. Stay tuned for that to play out.

Norma has dinner with Alex and Norman, so they can talk things out. Norman decides he will pay for his therapy, no need for “step-daddy” (yes, he really said that) to have to support a grown man.  Alex is encouraging to Norman, supporting his desire to take care of himself. All Norman wants to hear from Alex is when he’s leaving. He storms outside and takes his frustrations out on the woodpile. He’s swinging that ax like Paul Bunyan when Alex offers to go out and talk to him. Got your gun, Alex?  Norman rages against that woodpile, yelling at Alex, challenging him. The ax gets a bit too close, so Alex backs away and heads into the house to tell Norma he plans to stay the night. How ‘bout a Super 8 or something?  I’d put on some coffee if I were Norma.  It’s gonna be a long night.  

Bates Motel airs on A&E Monday at 9/8c

Following his unsuccessful meeting with Norma the previous evening, Chick stops by with the finished stained glass window. Norma refused to give Caleb’s location, and has steeled herself for the consequences. Vera Farmiga shows so much depth in all her characters, and Norma Bates at her breaking point is my favorite. Mother Bates will go down fighting – kicking and screaming if necessary. And wow, did she scream at Chick. She and Chick stare each other down, making Alex curious. Norma tearfully admits to Alex that Caleb is Dylan’s father and Chick has been holding that over her head to get to Caleb. Norma expects Alex to leave after the big reveal, but Alex is a stand-up guy. He holds her and promises that he’s not going anywhere. I cried tears of relief along with Norma.

In session with Dr. Edwards, Norman morphs into Norma while in a blackout. “She” explains what happened at the hands of her deceased husband, Sam (David Cubitt). Try as she might, she couldn’t escape the hellish marriage. Caught trying to leave, she and Norman are dragged out of the car. Norma tells Norman to run and hide. Sam throws Norma on the bed and forces himself on her. Little Norman is hiding under the bed, so scared. He tries to comfort his mother, grasping her hand and waiting for the horror to end. We’re getting closer to what’s wrong with Norman. My heart breaks for him. I think I’d be at Pineview, too, if I had lived through that hell. After such a draining session, he won’t leave his room, afraid of what got revealed during his blackout.

Back at the motel, Norma and Alex go at it like rabbits. I think it’s fair to say this is a happy union. Norma seems to have mixed feelings about Norman’s absence, though, peeking into Norman’s room as she follows Alex to the kitchen for coffee.

At Pineview, Norman and Julian are in art therapy making paper-mache creations. Norman is using strips of newspaper, making a dog that looks an awful lot like Juno. It’s as if he’s starting to feel at home at Pineview. Julian steps out for some air, and Norman discovers his mother’s marriage to Alex in the strips of newspaper. Uh oh….

Norma is embarrassed to admit her financial difficulties to her new husband. Alex whips out Bob Paris’ stash. He was telling her the truth when he joked he was stashing cash down there. Norma doesn’t want to touch the blood money, but Alex insists she use the money for whatever she needs. While Norma and Alex are kissing, the phone rings. Alex answers, it’s Norman. Oh no. A wily Norman asks Alex why the sheriff is answering the phone. Is something wrong? Norma foolishly lies to Norman. He says he’s heading home, unless there’s a reason he shouldn’t.   Norman then heads to the front desk, asking to be released. He’s told he must go through a 72-hour process, and submit a letter attesting that his current mental state is stable. Ha! Norman says that he’ll do what’s necessary to leave. The receptionist tells Norman that his step-father’s  insurance covers a 3-month stay. He bristles at the notion of a “step-father”!  There’s a storm brewing in Norman’s baby blues.

Emma and Will are arguing about her mother Audrey (Karina Logue) when Dylan walks in. He’s just in time for Will to ask him to back him up about Audrey’s behavior at the hospital. Emma is mad at both of the men in her life. Whether or not she wants a relationship with her mother is her decision. She dials her mother’s number, but it’s out of service. Emma thinks it’s typical of her irresponsible past.

Later, Dylan makes calls trying to reach Audrey Decody. Her landlord says it’s been four months since she last saw Audrey, so she removed all her belongings, considering them abandoned. Dylan brings Emma her letter, and tells her what he found out about her mother. Emma thinks the letter is another ploy by her mother, and she doesn’t trust her. Alex has given Rebecca the second key to Bob Paris’ safety deposit box, and is glad to be rid of it. Rebecca says she plans to leave town. Good!  Alex is off the market, you thirsty broad.

Dr. Edwards finds Norman typing up his discharge request letter. Norman asks for a prescription for the medication they discussed to help with his blackouts. Dr. Edwards isn’t giving in so easily, and he shouldn’t. Norman may be crazy, but he’s wily.  

Dylan stops by to see Norma. She’s humming, making jam and sewing curtains, dancing on air. She tells Dylan he should bring Emma along to pick out their Christmas tree. Dylan asks if she knows Norman hid the letter Emma’s mother sent. Norma says she was suspicious about  Audrey and wouldn’t take the envelope. Dylan says that Norman intercepted the letter and Audrey never checked out of the motel. He thinks Norman has something to hide; his blackouts are dangerous.  

Norman has sickening visions of his mother with Alex, and seems on edge at breakfast with Julian. He says he’s going home, Julian doesn’t believe him. He tells Norman there must be a reason he’s at Pineview. Norman says the difference is that he’s smart and can fool people. He tells Julian he’ll never get out. Norman’s cold and distant, focused on his own agenda. Norma comes to Pineview to meet with Dr. Edwards. He says Norman has the right to check himself out, but that she can petition the court and have his commitment upheld. She thinks she might be able to talk Norman into staying. Yeah, good luck with that. Norman knows you lied. In fact, he’s a bit detached when mother hugs him and when she cajoles him to stay. She goes on to extol the virtues of Dr. Edwards. Norman wants to know if his continued commitment has anything to do with her nuptials. Gulp! He shows her the newspaper article he pasted back together. She stammers that the marriage was for insurance, to help Norman get into Pineview. Norman begs to come home, he cries, then she cries. Norma gives in even though she is really scared — as she should be.

Dr. Edwards finds Norman alone in the art studio, still working on his dog. Dr. Edwards tells Norman how he behaves when he’s in a blackout state. Norman admits he’s scared of the blackouts, and hopes the medication will help. He begs Dr. Edwards not to abandon him once he leaves. The doctor promises Norman three sessions a week and his discharge from Pineview. Norma is drained and comes home to find her new husband and a 60” television in her living room. She tells Alex that Norman will be coming home. So soon??? Alex is perplexed and a bit ticked off. Despite his concerns, he reassures Norma that they’ll be alright.

At Pineview, Norman heads toward the exit straight past a surprised Julian. Norma waits outside for him. She hugs her boy, and takes him home. He’s ba-a-a-ck…

Bates Motel Airs Monday at 9/8c on A&E

Alex and Norma begin cleaning up her ransacked house. Norma wonders if they should be dusting for prints and whether Bob Paris is involved. Alex knows Bob is swimming with the fishes, and chalks up the break-in to his past involvement with the DEA. With Norman out of her hair, Norma ventures out to the local hardware store, looking for someone to fix her stained glass window. The clerk takes her name and address in case he locates a craftsman.  All the while, Dylan and Caleb’s funky, dusty, mountain-wacko buddy, Chick, is in the next aisle wearing his listening ears.

Norman is docile and agreeable in session with Dr. Edwards. He recalls that when that his dad died, he stepped up as man of the house. He’s worried about Norma being alone now. No worries, Normie, Mama’s not lonely. Norman asks if he can call Emma to check on her after her lung transplant. Norman calls his mother instead. The call goes to voicemail and Norman leaves a message, saying that he understands why he’s at Pineview, and hopes to get the help he needs. I’m not sure who this Noman is. Why is he suddenly so agreeable? How many personalities are in there, Norman? Norman??? Norman, is That You?  Later, Dr. Edwards gets a call from the White Pine Bay police station; there’s no record of Norma Bates doing anything illegal anywhere, ever. No big surprise there.

Dylan brings Emma home from the hospital and helps her to her room. He’s careful around her, treating her like she’s fragile. Not fragile at all, she grabs him and kisses him hard. She tells him the doctor recommended she wait 4-6 weeks. Dylan smiles; she actually asked her doctor when she could be intimate with him. Aww! Before heading out, Dylan tells Will about a job interview he has in Seattle the next morning. Will’s happy that Dylan plans to move to Seattle with them. Emma is positively glowing. Dylan has proven himself to be a stand-up guy, despite Norma, Caleb, the weed farming and all. Kudos this week go to Max Thieriot and Olivia Cooke. As Dylan Massett and Emma Decody, they’ve joined the list of my favorite couples. Dylan and Emma are both a bit shy and soft-spoken and are good, decent people. Their relationship grew slowly, but they had great chemistry right away. They’re adorable together. They’re belting out Dylan and Emma’s love story to the rafters, and I hope they get to play it out.

Chick, our musty, dusty woodland pal, is ringing Norma’s doorbell. He says he’s the stained glass specialist (and I’m the Tooth Fairy).  Norma is slightly put off by his appearance and probably his aroma, too, but lets him in anyway. Chick explains his condition away saying he had an auto wreck avoiding a dog in the road. Ooo’kay. His eyes dart around the room as he speaks. He’s creeping the hell out of me, I’m surprised Norma even let him in. She should be able to spot a kook by now! He says he can restore her window.

That evening, Rebecca Howard is waiting outside the police station for Alex.  Alex pulls her out of sight and questions her. She swears she had nothing to do with the break-in at Norma’s. He knows she’s desperate to find the second key to Bob Paris’ safety deposit box. The DEA still has her spooked. Again, he swears he knows nothing about the key and warns her to stay away from Norma’s house. I wonder what Alex plans to do with that key…

Julian is back at Pineview, and Norman’s happy to see his buddy. He asks Julian how he’s doing but Julian is catatonic, probably on some heavy-duty meds. His face is still swollen and bruised from their boys’ night out. Good times, good times. Norman’s upset by Julian’s appearance and decides to takes a walk out into the courtyard. Sitting on a wooden bench, Norman spots Norma walking toward him. He’s surprised and overjoyed to see her. He tells her about his sessions with Dr. Edwards. She urges him to say whatever is necessary to be released. But not too much. He promises he will. Problem is, Norma’s not really there.

Back at the Decoty house, Dylan is feeling positive after his interview in Seattle. He and Emma are stretched out on her bed, talking. Emma says that she really wants to be with him, but she’s embarrassed by her scars. She lifts her shirt to show him, waiting for him to cringe. Dylan is unfazed and takes his shirt off and shows Emma all of his scars. He finds ways to make her laugh before kissing away her insecurities. Such a sweet moment for the new couple.

Norma drives back from town to find Chick waiting for her in the dark, outside the motel. What the hell, you creep?! He rambles on awhile about stained glass repair, then suddenly shifts gears and says that he knows Gunner, Dylan and Caleb. Chick is surprised to hear Norma say that Caleb is her brother. That’s not what he was told when he met them. He’s making Norma uncomfortable, so she makes an excuse to head up to the house. Later, Alex walks in to find Norma playing the piano and singing. She senses she’s not alone and stops playing, embarrassed. Alex sits on the piano bench next to her. He tells her the break-in has been handled. Alex Romero doesn’t fool around; don’t let those paint-brush eyelashes fool you. Norma asks him again if he killed Bob Paris. Alex says he had no choice. He puts his head on Norma’s shoulder and she comforts him.

Back in session, Dr. Edwards tells Norman his claim that his mother visited him yesterday isn’t possible. He also lets Norman know his phone call was monitored and he’s not fooling anyone. Norman argues with Dr. Edwards about what is real and what isn’t. Yes, Norman, you are the authority on reality. Norman starts to get angry and starts pacing the floor. Dr. Edwards puts a hand on his shoulder and speaks to him softly to calm him. Norman tells Dr. Edwards how soothing his voice is. (He’s the psycho-whisperer) Norman is morphing into Norma right before the doctor’s eyes. Dr. Edwards knows he’s dealing with Norman’s alter-ego, and addresses “her” accordingly, asking if “she” knows anything about Norman’s problems. Dr. Edwards makes sure to check in on Norman before leaving for the day. He promises Norman that he won’t have to go through his therapy alone. I don’t think Norman is ever “alone”.

Chick swings by to see Norma again. He says that his car accident story was a lie. Really? He knows Caleb and Norma are Dylan’s parents. He muses that maybe Caleb raped Norma, or maybe Norma was in love with Caleb. Chick tells Norma how badly Caleb beat him, and that he plans to get even. He says he’s been trying to find Caleb. Norma stares after him as he shuffles away. Where’s Alex when you need him???

Bates Motel Airs on A&E Mondays at 9/8c

Uh-oh, Norman’s not taking his meds. He’s doing the ol’ finger down the throat as soon as he’s alone. He’s under the impression that he’ll be released soon; there’s no reason to hold him at Pineview. He made it pretty clear to Dr. Edwards that Norma’s the dangerous one. He needs to be released so he can help her. He’s become cocky and uncooperative, refusing to go to group, insisting he is leaving. He starts to get loud, and Dr. Edwards escorts him to his office. He sits Norman down and explains that Norman’s accusations must be investigated before any decisions on his admission can be made. Norman storms off to group therapy like a petulant child. Later, he asks his new friend Julian if there is anywhere he can make a private call. When he does, Norman calls Dylan, telling him Norma is in trouble, and the police may be coming out to question the her. Norman is agitated, and forced to hang up before being discovered.

The next morning, Alex finds Norma in the kitchen with breakfast and fresh coffee for him. They both have no regrets about consummating their “marriage”. They embrace, but Norma is still a little skittish around her new husband. Alex recommends that they open a joint bank account, and make an appearance together at the town’s Winter Festival later that evening. Norma regrets she can’t go with, she’s heading to Portland to visit Emma. As she sits in her car, she smiles thinking of Alex. She’s got that morning-after glow. Norma’s smile is like the sun breaking through the clouds.

Dylan and Emma are spending time together on the hospital roof. Emma says she and her father have decided to move to Seattle. They have a cutting-edge respiratory center and college for Emma. She asks Dylan if he would consider coming along. He says he will if that’s what she wants. It is. Max Thieriot does an amazing job as Dylan. He has captured the sensitivity of his father, Caleb. He’s soft spoken, gentle and sincere, but no one to mess with. As the series moves forward, I’m looking forward to seeing his character continue to grow. Unless, of course, Norman has other plans for him.

Norma visits with Emma, and tells her Norman has been hospitalized. Emma says it’s probably for the best. Probably? C’mon Emma, remember being alone with him in the cabin?? She encourages Norma to take this time for herself; give herself permission to relax a bit (without the suffocating reality of being Norman’s mother). Wise girl, that Emma.

Norma returns home sooner than expected and surprises Alex at the Winter Festival, looking radiant. The center of town is covered in tiny white lights, and there are lighted parasols for the ladies. The newlyweds grab funnel cakes and whiskey-laden hot toddies. Alex is called away for a photo and Rebecca Hamilton (Jaime Ray Newman) swoops in and introduces herself. Norma says that she and Alex will be stopping by the bank soon to open a joint account. Rebecca is clearly not happy for the newlyweds. Alex must have been more than just a booty-call for her. Later, Alex and Norma dance under the lights. Norma wants to know who Rebecca is, but Alex brushes her off as just his banker.This episode gives Nestor Carbonell a chance to show more depth to Alex’s character. He’s in love now and vulnerable, but still very aware of what’s going on behind the scenes. Some of the dirty dealings in White Pine Bay are starting to complicate his life.

The next day, Alex stops by the bank after an urgent message from Rebecca. She wants to know what happened to Bob Paris. She flat-out asks Alex if he killed Bob. He denies knowing anything about that. He did, however, annihilate Bob with four rapid shots from groin to throat. Rebecca says the DEA has been sniffing around Bob Paris’ accounts and notes that Paris has a safety deposit box at the bank with $3 million she laundered for him. She asks Alex if he has the second key to Bob’s safety deposit box. Nope again! But, among the bundles of cash he’s hidden at Norma’s, Alex does have the key, and now knows what it’s for.

Julian finds Norman in the hospital entrance, challenging the security guard. He wants to go out front, but is only allowed in the courtyard. Julian tells Norman there’s something they can do, after hours.That night, Norman and Julian hangout in the hallway. Julian upsets an OCD patient to distract the staff so they can sneak out. Apparently, Julian isn’t new at this. He uses a screwdriver to open a small window. The two make it outside and run. Norman follows Julian down the road, where they try to flag down a ride. Each car that passes gets a barrage of swears from Julian. (Hey, way to get ‘em to stop, Julian!) A car finally stops. The boys climb into the car of an older gentleman, and they drive off into the night. They’re dropped off at a strip club, and Norman is instantly mesmerized by the strippers. Julian heads to the VIP lounge leaving Norman with a roll of bills. The stripper nearest Norman slides up to him, asking him if he’d like to go to the VIP lounge. Aww, geez! NO, Norman! She gets on his lap, and he starts having visions of Blair Watson. He asks her to move over so he can take the screwdriver from his pants pocket. (Is that a screwdriver in your pocket, or are you just glad to see me?) Norman morphs into Mother and scolds the girl for removing her clothes. There’s a kerfuffle down the hall, Julian has flipped out and the bouncers are kicking the crap out of him. Norman watches in horror. Dr. Edwards arrives at the strip club. Norman’s in an ambulance, disoriented and worried about Julian. Julian has been taken to the hospital with some broken ribs, but will be okay. Norman wants to know if there was anything else that happened, but Dr. Edwards says nothing else did. He does add that for the past four years, Julian has been escaping so someone will come looking for him because he needs to know someone cares.

Norman sits in the car with Dr. Edwards, staring out the window. He is so lost and scared and cries for Dr. Edwards to please, please help him. Again Freddie Highmore has me in tears! Now he’s a sad, lost child, truly scared about what’s been happening to him. He doesn’t even remember how he got to the strip club. Please take your meds, Norman!

Alex and Norma arrive home and can barely keep their hands off each other. Alex turns on the light. They freeze when they realize Norma’s house has been ransacked. Someone has tossed her house in search of something. Norma is scared, but Alex soothes her. He thinks it’s somehow related to Rebecca, and maybe his fault, too.

Bates Motel returns to A&E in two weeks, on April 11th!

Norma can’t bear to look at Norman’s empty room. Meanwhile, Norman is being whisked through orientation at Pineview, wondering why his belt has been taken. Because you’re scary, Dude, really scary.

Norma and Alex wait their turn at the courthouse, preparing for their wedding. Alex asks Norma if she could at least lean on his shoulder and phone-in the affection. She obliges and they are married by the justice of the peace. Alex slides a nice rock onto Norma’s finger, and kisses her like he means it – and I think he does. He’s into Norma Louise. In her baby-blues, he sees mysteries as deep as the ocean, and he’s determined to figure her out. As they leave the courthouse, Alex mentions he’ll be bringing his things to her house after work. Norma is taken aback, but he reminds her they’re married now and must keep up appearances.

Dylan is with Emma, and they walk outside the hospital with her IV pole in tow. Emma is happy and blushing – almost glowing. Dylan tells her he wants to do something better with his life and give up the weed farming. He plans to return to the farm, fire his assistant Gunner (Keenan Tracey) and move on. I’d like to see them get the hell out of White Pine Bay while Norman’s still confined.

Having gone through the rigors of orientation, Norman repeatedly asks when he can go home. He’s scared to start talking at his intake session with Dr. Edwards, explaining that he’s been to therapy before but had to leave due to problems with Norma Louise. Huh? Red flag number one. He “knows” his mother has committed him, and he’s angry. Uh, dude, you signed the papers yourself. He says his mother is the one who needs help – which is probably true, having to cover for Norman most of his life would mess with anyone’s head. Instead of sharing his feelings, he commits to a silent stare-down with Dr. Edwards. Freddie Highmore has the ability to be lovable, vulnerable, and detestably condescending all at the same time. He has found that delicate balance between himself and Norma Louise, and plays out that emotional conundrum flawlessly with those killer dimples. And I do mean killer.

Norman makes a friend in the cafeteria named Julian (Marshall Allman) who wants to know all about Norman’s brand of Crazy. Norman is seething looking at Julian’s lunch. It’s turkey pot pie. It was the last meal Norma fixed for him.(Red flag number two) Julian asks if it’s okay if he finishes his lunch.

We already know Norma has impulse control issues. She calls Pineview, asking to speak with Norman. The operator informs her there is a 72-hour wait before any contact may be made.

As promised, Alex arrives with his belongings, and Norma looks like she forgot they got married. While Alex is upstairs unpacking, she offers to cook dinner for him, but  Alex decides they will go out for dinner. It’s their wedding night. There is palpable relief in her eyes when he takes charge. The newly married enjoy a complimentary wedding night dinner at a swanky local restaurant and indulge in the bubbly. Tongues loosen and they start getting to know each other (no, not like that). They talk of their past marriages, one for Alex, two for Norma. She avoids the fact that Dylan is her child with her brother Caleb. She recalls Norman’s dad was a jerk and then he died. The end.

Giggling and tipsy, they make their way home and up the stairs. It’s nice to see Norma’s eyes shining with joy instead of tears and frustration. Alex wishes her goodnight and surprises her by heading to his own room. Norma falls asleep smiling. She wakes in the morning to find a note from Alex – he’s having the pit in front of the motel filled in. Nice wedding present, kudos to Alex! .  

Dylan returns to the farm just in time to bid farewell to Gunner. He has also had enough of the weed business. Dylan was so looking forward to firing him; Gunner used to dig Emma. Dylan calls Emma to update her. While they chat on the phone, dusty mountain wacko, Chick (Ryan Hurst) hobbles into Dylan’s cabin looking for Caleb. He wants to thank him for the ass whuppin’…

Um, not in that condition pal.  And when’s the last time you had a bath?

Alex is packing up at his place, making sure his cash stash is still there. It is and he bags it. He returns to Norma’s with a few more of his things. Dylan stops by the house, and Norma is so glad to see her son. She asks how Emma’s doing, and tells him she and Alex got married. Dylan’s a bit suspicious of Alex’s motives. It can’t just be about the insurance. Norma is surprised to find Alex in the basement, in Norman’s taxidermy studio. He jokes that he was down there to hide a bunch of money. Norma is taken with those paint-brush eyelashes of his. She laughs and offers to make him some dinner.

Back at Pineview, Norman mentions his blackouts. He angrily insists to Dr. Edwards that he’s there for help with his mother. Norman is so angry with her- she asks too much of him! Maybe that’s why he blacks out – yeah, that’s it. His defenses crumble and he explodes, his words coming faster and faster. His face is red, and his eyes full of tears and he’s afraid of what he might say. He storms out.

Norma, being the (s)mother she is, ignores that whole 72 hours thing. She too is worried about what Norman might say, but instead tells the staff he might benefit from seeing that she’s okay.  Dr. Edwards makes an exception, and Norma finds her son in the recreation room. Unseen, she slips off her wedding ring and they go to a more quiet area to talk. Norman is livid and shouting at her. He refuses to keep his voice down. He says he will never forgive his mother for Pineview and walks away, leaving her stunned.

Back at home, Norma finds some peace with Alex. She’s so afraid Norman will admit the things he’s done. Alex comforts her with a passionate kiss and carries her up the stairs like Scarlett O’Hara, minus the struggle. Norma’s a frisky kitty. Back at Pineview, Norman has gone from zero to blast off, and is now confined in a secured room. Dr. Edwards comes to check on him. Norman tells the doctor that he believes his mother is crazy and may have killed some people. Dr. Edwards says if that’s true, that’s where the confidentiality ends. Norman is satisfied. He’s got Dr. Edwards right where he wants him.

Bates Motel airs Monday at 9/8c on A&E

Norman is hallucinating while he’s washing his face. He sees Mother putting Audrey into his taxidermy freezer and fighting to keep the lid down while Audrey fights for her life. Unsuccessfully.

Norma yells up to tell him she’s heading down to the motel to clean out a recently vacated room. Her son watches until she’s at the motel before running down to the basement. He yanks open the door to his freezer and (aha!) finds it empty. He’s suspicious of Norma and scared to let her out of his sight. He’s convinced that Norma is dangerous and needs help. Hello, Pot, have you met Kettle? When Norma returns to the house, she finds Norman peering into his freezer, with its frozen specimens scattered about. Norma asks about this; Norman asks her where the woman’s body is because he “knows” Norma is responsible. She has no idea what he’s talking about….unless. He’s decided she needs looking after, and he will take charge from now on. Saved by the doorbell, Norma opens the door for Sheriff Romero. He’s checking to be sure Norma is alright after her panicked dawn visit. She says she is fine and quickly heads back inside. Poor Alex is a drunken moth to the crazy flame.

On the other hand, Alex has found a good use for Bob Paris’ ill-gotten gains. He takes the bundle to Pineview to help the Bateses. Asking for immediate admission for Norman, he hands the money to Vicki Monroe (Fiona Vroom) at the front desk. She asks the sheriff if he’s related to the family. He says he’s marrying Norman’s mother. Attaboy Alex, embrace the crazy! Norma Louise has got more than enough to spare.

Back at Bates manor, Norman reads to his mother. She nervously peers out the window at the “pool” Bob Paris had dug for her. It’s nothing more than a huge, deep pit, now full of rainwater.  She puts on her rain gear, and heads down a ladder into the pit. Feeling around in the muddy water but she only finds a rubber glove before hearing a car pull in. Norman hurries down to check in their guests and sees Norma climbing out of the pit, mud on her cheek. Norman sternly sends Norma up to the house, threatening to make a scene if she doesn’t go. He yells after her to stay in the house.

While Norman checks the family in, Norma receives a call from Alex. He tells her he’s reconsidered, and will marry her if she’s still interested. The form for voluntary committal to Pineview must be signed, and Alex is faxing it to Norma as they speak. Norma panics; the fax machine is in the hotel office. The forms are in Norman’s hands now, and he reads every page.

Will and Dylan are sitting and talking in the hospital coffee shop. Will thanks Dylan for helping his daughter. He reminds Dylan that Emma’s going to want more out of life than a small-town romance with a pot-farmer. Will feels Dylan deserves better for himself, as well. Dylan goes to Emma and tells her he’s leaving to check on the farm. Emma asks him if he’ll be coming back.  Dylan says he will if she wants him to. She does. Awww, two sweet people with a rough start are feeling the first blush of romance. Who isn’t a sucker for that? Norman, that’s who.

Norman sits in the office, clutching those committal forms. His father has decided to join him, and add his two cents to the mix. Norman asks him to please leave, but daddy stays, and begins to tell him the things that Norma has done and blamed on Norman instead. He tells Norman his mother is dangerous and must be stopped. Norma is hiding outside, waiting for Norman to leave the office so she can check the fax machine. Of course the forms are gone, Norman’s just crazy and dangerous, not stupid.

Norma Louise sneaks back into the house, and is startled at the door by Norman. I hate when that happens; Hell, everybody hates when that happens! She offers to fix him a turkey pot pie for dinner. Hey, Norma, how ‘bout mixing in a nice sedative or 12 for your boy?  He watches her every move and says he can’t leave her alone because he doesn’t trust her. She’s dangerous and is the one sabotaging him. They eat in silence. It’s always awkward to figure out who’s the most dangerous person at the table.

Norma says she’s scared and Norman agrees that she should be. He knows she killed Audrey and Bradley Martin and Blair Watson (Keegan Connor Tracy) out of jealousy. She killed his dad, too. That’s why she was down in the pit — covering up her latest crime. Norman stands, I feel a storm brewing… He knows she’s trying to blame him and have him locked up, but he WON’T ALLOW HER TO DO THAT!!! He’s raging in her face, veins pulsing, eyes darkening. Norma runs upstairs for her gun. Too late, Norman’s already got it. She knows she should be strapped at all times — guns come in handy in White Pine Bay. Just ask Alex. Kissing her son’s face, soothing him and telling him she loves him, Norma almost lulls her child into a calm state, but he lashes out when she goes for the gun. Norma finds a room to lock herself in, and calls Alex. Norman is scaring the crap out of her.

Later, when Norma peeks out, she hears music playing. It’s the laptop downstairs, playing a Bob Hope musical number. The house is dark and there’s no sign of Norman. She finds a sharp pair of shears and heads down to the basement and finds Norman at his taxidermy table. He shows her the commitment forms and says he can’t sign them and leave her to “run amok”. He suggests they commit a double suicide. Alex is heard forcing his way into the house. Norma cries that she’s sorry it’s come to this, but unless Norman signs the papers, he will be sent back to the state hospital. She begs him to sign. Some part of him remembers the horrors of the state hospital, so he signs. Norma cries tears of sadness and relief as she watches Alex drive away with Norman. But we know he will be back.

Bates Motel Airs Mondays 9/8c on A&E