Season 12 of House of Payne has been all about Laura—and her ongoing drama with the Paynes. She and Ella especially can’t seem to get it together, and the first three episodes focus on Laura’s rocky relationship with Calvin’s family. Things escalate so much that Laura’s mom, Elaine, steps in to talk with Ella about the tension. It’s an uncomfortable conversation, but eventually, both women agree that—for the sake of their families—they need to find common ground. Cute in theory, but after Elaine leaves, she confesses to Curtis that she can’t stand Laura.

By the next episode, things spiral further—Laura tells Calvin she’s moving out. The one thing she and the Paynes can all agree on? Calvin needs to stop being passive and finally take charge of the situation.

There’s a clear running theme here: forgiveness and grace. Eventually, Laura reflects on her behavior and apologizes to Calvin for being stubborn. Calvin, in turn, apologizes for not protecting her from his family. The two recommit to each other, determined to move forward.

But then, in episode three, Laura plays herself—blocking Ella, even though Ella was the one who reached out first. Naturally, Ella is heated all over again and back to square one in her struggle to tolerate Laura.

Thankfully, Calvin gets some solid advice from both Curtis and CJ about how to bridge the gap between the two women. Elaine also nudges Laura to step up before Calvin does. Eventually, Laura unblocks Ella and agrees to try and make peace.

And that’s where we’re leaving things—for now. Fingers crossed for a breakthrough next episode.