Javi and Leo wake up together, eagerly planning to watch the Longhorns game, although Javi’s attention is snagged by a troubling article about Jada’s ongoing investigation. Frustrated by Rafe’s unchanging reputation despite his infidelity, Javi contemplates revealing the truth to Jada. Leo remains uncertain, but Javi is resolved as he prepares to head off to work, confident that new opportunities will come his way. Before leaving, Leo contacts Chad, hoping to return to The Spectator.
Meanwhile, at home, Belle intercepts EJ’s sleep-talking about Jada and quickly deduces he’s masking his true feelings. She accuses him of orchestrating events against Jada, prompting a heated yet intimate exchange between them. Though their argument escalates, the tension softens into genuine affection. Before departing, Belle leaves an envelope for Kristen.
Elsewhere, Jada awakens with lingering hopes of Rafe’s apology and a promise of reconciliation, only to be met by Steve at her door. He reassures her that he is determined to clear her name and is currently focused on tracking down Ava using department resources. Embracing her like family, Steve vows to expose EJ’s schemes and restore her reputation.
At Aremid, Rafe regains consciousness, bound to a chair, while downstairs Rachel, who has taken Ava hostage, field calls from Kristen. Kristen, already burdened by a looming CPS investigation into their troubled past, warns that one more misstep could jeopardize everything. As tensions rise, Rachel delivers orders for Ava’s care, revealing that she is not alone in captivity.
Later, in the town square, Javi and Jada cross paths. Jada reveals her heartbreak over Rafe’s attempt to draw her in, and Javi finally confesses that Rafe betrayed her trust. Meanwhile, EJ hands Kristen the envelope, then inquires about her next moves regarding Rafe and Ava. Confident and determined, Kristen produces a vial that hints at her plan. At the same time, Brady and Steve, piecing together clues from Ava’s voicemail, identify her location and rush to Aremid, where Brady ultimately frees Ava.