The Open Road

Carlton Garrett, a minor-league baseball player, faces disappointment after a lackluster game with the Corpus Christi Hooks. This moment sets the stage for a series of events that will eventually change his life.

Carlton receives a troubling call from his grandfather Amon, informing him that his mother, Katherine, is in the hospital and requires surgery. This news prompts Carlton to take immediate action to confront his family's issues.

At the hospital, Katherine refuses to consent to her surgery until her estranged husband, Kyle, agrees to visit her. This creates a sense of urgency for Carlton to facilitate a reunion between his parents.

Determined to reunite his parents, Carlton seeks help from his ex-girlfriend Lucy. Together, they fly to Columbus, Ohio, where Kyle is signing autographs and is difficult to reach due to his lack of a cell phone.

When Carlton confronts Kyle, the atmosphere is filled with tension as they haven't communicated in five years. This meeting reveals the underlying wounds in their relationship and sets the stage for further conflict.

After much reluctance, Kyle finally agrees to drive down to Texas for Katherine's surgery. This decision marks a small step towards healing the fractured relationship between him and Carlton.

As they prepare to board their flight, Kyle realizes he has lost his wallet, which complicates their journey. Lucy suggests they drive to Texas instead, leading them into a road trip filled with challenges.

During a fuel stop, Kyle asks for painkillers from his bag, only for Lucy to discover his wallet hidden inside. This revelation raises suspicions about Kyle's commitment to the trip, causing tension among the trio.

As the journey progresses, Lucy reveals her engagement to another man, leaving Carlton feeling conflicted. This adds emotional strain as their road trip becomes a catalyst for addressing their feelings.

Carlton confronts Kyle and Lucy, feeling betrayed when he discovers Kyle has had his wallet all along. This explosive confrontation opens old wounds and forces each character to face their true feelings.

Following a desperate search, Carlton learns Kyle is staying at the Peabody Hotel under an assumed name. Their explosive confrontation reveals Kyle's selfish nature and his love for Katherine.

After shaking off their conflicts, the family awaits news concerning Katherine's surgery. This period of waiting allows for some healing and reconnection among the characters.

Following the successful surgery, Carlton makes the decision to leave baseball and focus on his writing career. Meanwhile, Lucy clarifies that her engagement was a misunderstanding, hinting at rekindled feelings.

As they part ways, Carlton drives Kyle to the airport, solidifying plans for future family gatherings. This signifies a new beginning for the father-son duo as they look to mend their relationship.

In the final scene, Carlton cleans out his baseball locker, symbolizing the end of an era. He leaves with Lucy, signaling a transition into a hopeful future filled with possibilities.