Why does Eldon start drinking again?

When Angie became pregnant, Eldon felt humbled. He felt like he was a part of Angie, and that he and the baby were the same because they both needed Angie to live. This thought scared Eldon more than he has ever been scared before. He was afraid that he could never be what he never was, and he was deeply ashamed of himself and his past.

Eldon began drinking again during the pregnancy, and she told Eldon she needed him with her, saying, “Don’t let that stuff take you away.” By the time Angie is due, Eldon is drinking in secret.