This episode is a bit of a "Wallflower." Out of all the episodes so far this season (and there aren't many to go on), it's the one I'd least likely ask to dance. I fear the extra ballgame on FOX pushed what was to be an exciting cliff-hanger off until January. I can only guess that to be the case, because this one isn't one to leave us hanging.

It's pretty bad when the commercials are more exciting than the episode, but by the 30 minute mark, that's what I was feeling. As an ardent Fringe fan, that isn't a comfortable realization. The shame is that this episode probably sets us up for what's to come, but by the time it airs, we won't remember because this isn't a memorable installment.

There are a lot of differences highlighted that showcase the differences between the new and old timelines. That seems like as good a discussion as any, at this point.

Olivia is getting migraines, and her prescription seems to work darn fast. I think I need whatever she's taking. It doesn't, however, stop them from coming back throughout the episode. Somehow, the migraines bring Lincoln and Olivia closer. Or, it could just be that Lincoln is feeling more comfortable in his new role.

Lincoln and Peter discussing Olivia was so natural. Peter was right in thanking Lincoln. Nobody has been treating him like a human being, but everything is so new to Lincoln that Peter is just another anomaly. In the scheme of Lincoln's life, Peter is the new normal.

Nina Sharp's office at Massive Dynamic is just a shade smaller than the one from our time line. It looks like the inside of a storage shelter. Why didn't I notice the size the last time Olivia and Lincoln were in her office? While still cold, the smaller size makes it seem a bit more personal, especially with her photos lined up on a shelf.

There was nothing about the case of the week in the least bit compelling. Usually, we're given something to work with that makes us feel either for the victims or the perpetrator. The only thing I felt was excited at seeing Yoko next to John in the mouse maze.

I suppose there was some sort of analogy between U-Gene and Peter. Neither is recognized. Even after U-Gene's speech to Olivia, I was left unmoved. When the owner of Ziggy the cat (I had a Ziggy of my own) recognized and saw him in the elevator? That got me. To spend your entire life just wanting to be seen by someone only to die when it happens does tug at the heart strings just a bit.

Odds and ends:

• Peter gave Lincoln some new glasses. Why? To make him more attractive to Olivia. It's good to know there is a universe where Lincoln would get the girl.
• Nina explained a bit more about taking a chance on Olivia and her sister. But the next bullet makes me wonder if a previous commenter was correct, she only raised them to be close to Olivia for malevolent reasons.
• What is Nina doing to Olivia? Olivia doesn't have migraines at all. Nina is having her shot up with something. Cortexiphan? Is it to keep her from figuring out who Peter is?
• I really miss the alternate universe. Alt-Lincoln, Fauxlivia, Walternate. Their reappearance is imperative.

From this mess of an episode to a two month hiatus. How will we survive? Here's hoping the holidays take us swiftly through the new year and into new episodes of Fringe!

Carissa Pavlica is the managing editor and a staff writer and critic for TV Fanatic. She's a member of the Critic's Choice Association, enjoys mentoring writers, conversing with cats, and passionately discussing the nuances of television and film with anyone who will listen. Follow her on X and email her here at TV Fanatic.