Episode 9 of Loot Season 1 begins with Nicholas diligently preparing Molly's abode for the day, unaware that she's blissfully ignorant of his early morning endeavors. Tonight marks the eagerly anticipated premiere of Nicholas's play, "Cahoga Lake," and Molly has pledged her attendance.
At work, Sofia announces exciting news: the board of directors has voted to approve their zoning proposal, inviting everyone to celebrate this milestone. Molly joins the celebration with more good tidings, announcing alongside Jean-Pierre that they've been invited to the Silver Moon Summit - a gathering of world leaders and billionaires aimed at discussing innovative ways to make the world a better place. Sofia, however, is unimpressed, believing that such a summit, where billionaires decide how the world should be, is not in alignment with their mission of grounding themselves in the community and funding those who are making a real impact. Molly, however, remains convinced that elevating their goals is a worthy pursuit.
Meanwhile, Nicholas receives a frantic call from the director, asking him to step in as the lead actor for the play. This news adds to his already mounting anxiety about the performance, particularly the emotional ending that requires him to cry on cue. Howard promises to help him prepare, but only if they revert to their usual "enemies" afterward. As Howard digs into Nicholas's past, Nicholas reveals a life of ordinary normality - devoid of grand declarations of love or embraces. Eventually, Howard answers a persistent call from Tania, explaining that he's been busy assisting Nicholas. Tania, however, accuses him of abandoning her to help a traitor. Howard curtly ends their relationship, telling her, "It's over. Goodbye," before hanging up.
Later, Howard confesses to Nicholas that he realized he just wanted to help him reconcile with Tania. Before Nicholas takes the stage, Howard tells him he's proud of him and loves him, knowing that Nicholas can pull it off. The two friends embrace tightly.
At the zoning meeting, Molly faces scrutiny as a woman questions why she thinks she has the authority to decide everything in her community, suggesting that tearing down a mansion to build affordable housing would be a better use of resources. Others chime in with negative comments, and Molly struggles to keep her anger in check. Sofia offers comfort, reminding her that the attacks aren't personal and everyone faces challenges. Molly, however, wishes her struggles were simpler - a sentiment that's interrupted by a pie flying towards her. Fortunately, Arthur intervenes, shielding her from most of the mess.
Later, at the police station, Molly thanks Arthur for protecting her. Jean-Pierre enters to take her home, and Molly confesses that Sofia always tells her it's natural to be on guard around people like her. Jean-Pierre disagrees, believing that Sofia doesn't understand people like them. He assures Molly that there are many ways to do good, even in the face of adversity, like attending the summit.
On the plane to the summit, Molly suddenly realizes that Nicholas's play is starting in 30 minutes, and she won't be able to attend as promised. Despite her absence, Nicholas performs remarkably well, drawing a crowd of colleagues to the theater. Molly, unable to be there, sends a bottle of champagne and a note, urging him to enjoy the evening.
