In the seventh installment of "Laid" (2024), entitled "Toby and Lindsey Are Here," Ruby Yao (portrayed by Stephanie Hsu) persists in her quest to unravel the enigmatic hex that has claimed the lives of her former romantic partners. The episode kicks off with AJ (played by Zosia Mamet) and Richie Diane (Michael Angarano) rallying around Brad (Ryan Pinkston), much to Ruby's chagrin. Initially, Brad had confessed to casting the hex, but now, a twist reveals his innocence; he had merely encountered the Raven-haired lady, rumored to be the hex's originator, at a bar subsequent to McKenzie's Sweet 16 celebration.
Ruby's frustration intensifies as Isaac (Tommy Martinez) accuses her of neglecting him. In an earnest bid to clarify the situation, Ruby unburdens her sexual chronicle to Isaac, laying bare the genuine narrative of the hex. Yet, Isaac initially discredits her tale, perceiving it as a whimsical invention to repel him. This misunderstanding prompts Isaac to storm off, abandoning Ruby, Brad, AJ, and Richie to their sleuthing endeavors.
The quartet traces the hex's origins back to the fateful night of the party, where Brad had crossed paths with the enigmatic Raven-haired lady. AJ swiftly pinpoints her whereabouts, leading them to Janelle, a high-flying Cinnabon executive harboring a shadowy past. Janelle confesses to casting the spell, attributing it to a relapse stemming from a spat with her friend, Toby. Despite her openness to recount the entire saga, Ruby curtails her narrative, laser-focused on procuring a resolution.
Janelle divulges that, while the hex is irreversible, it can be transferred. However, she is interrupted before elaborating on the transfer method. This disclosure ignites a debate between Ruby and AJ, with AJ seemingly inclined to urge Ruby to retain the curse. Conversely, Ruby ponders passing it on to an无辜之人, such as a virgin or an inmate on death row, who might pose no harm to others.
In the meantime, Zack Bridgerton (portrayed by Andre Hyland) seeks the wisdom of his online followers to recapture AJ's heart, interpreting their diverse suggestions as a collective call to hire an authentic Mexican chef to cook for her. Elsewhere, Ruby finds herself mired in melancholy at Richie's apartment, engrossed in watching old Billy Crystal films as a form of escape. Despite his initial reservations, Richie eventually manages to persuade Ruby that she is inherently a good person and that someone will cherish her for her true self.
The episode reaches its thrilling crescendo when Isaac returns, confessing his unwavering belief in Ruby's narrative and expressing his readiness to stand by her side, regardless of the impending dangers. Even Richie concedes that Isaac's heartfelt declaration is the romantic gesture Ruby has been longing for. As the episode draws to a close, Ruby stands at a crossroads, faced with a difficult decision between Isaac and Richie, setting the stage for more poignant emotional and dramatic twists and turns.
"Toby and Lindsey Are Here" stands as a pivotal chapter that brings Ruby closer to unraveling the mystery behind the hex and her pivotal role in the enigmatic deaths. It delves deep into the intricate tapestry of her relationships with her friends and potential romantic partners. Viewers are left on tenterhooks, eagerly anticipating how Ruby will steer through these formidable challenges and the choices she will make in her quest for redemption and love.
