In the eighth episode of I Love LA, we find ourselves in the bustling Big Apple, where Maia, Tallulah, and Alani embark on a journey of self-discovery. Maia, power-walking with determination and then indulging in a cigarette to alleviate the stress of her relationship with Dylan, texts him to confirm her safe arrival. Her disappointment is palpable when he responds with a mere thumbs-up—a gesture that symbolizes their temporary separation rather than an end to their love.
As they arrive at the Forme fitting for their modeling gigs, Talulah's disappointment is evident when she's not cast in a daring outfit. However, her disillusionment is short-lived as she's reminded of her true role—not as a model but as a content creator who steals things and posts little videos.
Charlie, sent by Maia to spy on Dylan, finds him sorting through spices, checking the best-by dates. Charlie reminds Dylan of Maia's need for constant affirmation, but Dylan's indecision about how to respond becomes clear when he whips out his phone. Charlie is an expert at making people remember their reasons for being angry, and Dylan's dilemma is put into perspective.
Back in NYC, Maia runs into Hurricane Guy—Ben—who insults Tallulah while propositioning Maia. As Maia contemplates the perks of being on a break, Ben leaves his company card at the bar for them, conveniently overlooking the fact that their trip wasn't covered by Forme. It's time for some shots!
In LA, Charlie, wearing a wig to match Maia's, asks Dylan to name his frustrations. But the conversation quickly turns into a bonding session over relationships between the boys, with Charlie relentlessly discussing Andrew.
The next day, the girls wake up feeling rough—both having gotten insensible tattoos during their nights of revelry. Tallulah's stolen dress will be on full display, causing her to panic. Maia calls Charlie for advice, but Charlie is with Dylan who is trying to win Maia back. However, when he hears that all she's thinking about is the Forme disaster and not him, he takes a step back.
At the hotel, Maia prepares to see Ben, but instead of making love to her, he humiliates her and then offers her a job at an exorbitant $380K—a way to keep pushing her around all the time.
In the hustle and bustle of New York, Alani is confronted with a shocking revelation—the discovery of her father's new companion. But amidst the turmoil, a twist in the tale reveals that Denise is not merely a girlfriend, but a relentless stalker who lunges at her father as she rushes for the door's exit. Fortunately, the heart of her father remains untainted by infidelity.
Charlie, with a dress in hand for Tallulah, embarks on his journey to the city, confirming Dylan's yearning for Maia while he's cozy in bed with Claire. Maia tries to reach out to Dylan on the phone, but his silence speaks volumes—a silent reminder of his attachment to another.
With roads clogged by the presence of the stalker, Tallulah and Maia make a swift escape via the subway, their journey punctuated by a man's insults involving a rat. The incident stirs up longing in Maia's heart for the sun-drenched streets of LA once again.
