Elsewhere, the next morning, Bern is thrown into a tizzy upon discovering her gun resting ominously on the front seat of her truck. She concludes that this must be a message from Spenser, potentially in retaliation for halting his tankers for additional inspections in the previous episode. Convincing herself that an apology is in order, Bern sets her sights on Spenser's place, intent on mending the fence over the misunderstanding. However, her true motive is to immerse herself further into the happenings and secure a conversation with Budge.
After indulging in some coffee and exchanging brief pleasantries with the formidable boss, Bern finds herself at a loss for further conversation. He is acutely aware of her intentions, and it becomes evident that Bern is edging closer to uncovering his hidden agendas, especially when she inquiries about Budge, alias "Pig," and her probing around a wooden shack on the property that could hold a pivotal clue.
As night descends, Bern ventures out for dinner. But before she exits her home, an unexpected visitor arrives in the form of Budge. Recall, if you will, Budge is the same individual from the opening scenes of episode 2 who choked his partner in the truck after boasting about stealing a revolver.
Budge summons Bern outdoors and they embark together for dinner. He reveals that his duties revolve around providing security for Spenser and confesses to having returned her revolver. He further notes that she is currently armed but assures her that she won't require it tonight. However, their dinner is abruptly interrupted before tensions could escalate any further, as Budge has another commitment. He deserts her at the restaurant, leaving her to ponder over their conversation, her mind swimming with questions.
Back at her home, the news of B.J. Vines' discovery rapidly reaches Emma's ears. She wastes no time in confronting her husband directly, demanding answers about his involvement. When he confesses to his role, Emma's anger erupts, convinced that he has tarnished J.J.'s memory with blood and invited malicious spirits into their sanctuary.
That night, however, a stroke of luck arrives unexpectedly for Joe at the station when Suzanne calls. Her voice trembles with nervousness, yet she feigns a routine order for chilis to be delivered to an old trading post off Route 163, using it as a pretext to share her insights.
Joe complies and heads to the designated location, where Suzanne opens up to him. She reveals that Joe and Ernie began spending time together last summer, and mentions that George once drew her pictures, perhaps fueled by a youthful crush. She last encountered George a week prior.
Halsey had grown furious with them, prompting the boys to steer clear of the area, yet the precise cause of their rift remains shrouded in mystery. Suzanne is quick to assure Joe that the farmer isn't a beast, but she harbors suspicions that Halsey might be their culprit. On Monday, Halsey took the red pickup and was absent throughout the night, aligning with the timeline of the events. Though she doesn't elaborate further, it's evident that Joe might be onto something substantial.
The following day, Joe and his fellow officers decide to raid the chili farm, believing they have ample evidence to catch the perpetrator in the act. Instead, they find Suzanne, breathing heavily and under the influence of drugs.
The officers do uncover a bulletin board adorned with photographs of the officers at the farm, one of which is Bernadette. As the episode draws to a close, we also learn that the property is leased by AGS Industries, adding another layer of intrigue to the unfolding mystery.
