The past timeline sets the backdrop for the thrilling fourth episode of Palm Royale. Back in 1949, Norma's elegant social gathering glittered with the apparent wealth of Palm Beach society, but beneath the surface, not all was as rosy as it seemed. Suddenly, the evening was shattered by the sound of gunshots, echoing through the air, leaving a lasting impression on the attendees.
Now, the story shifts to the vibrant present day. Douglas is relaxing by the pool, enjoying the sun-kissed afternoon. Meanwhile, Maxine stands at a crossroads, torn between informing Douglas about her mounting debts and the prospect of never inheriting from Norma in case of her demise. She decides that it's best not to dampen his mood with such news. Instead, Douglas reveals his plan to quit his job as a pilot, seeing no need to continue working with the inheritance from Norma looming ahead.
As Maxine converses with Douglas, Robert approaches, inquiring if she's been to the pool room. She confesses her preference for the main living space, sparking Robert's suspicion that Linda might have stolen the Rolodex. After confronting her, Linda confesses, expressing her desire to rid herself of all the secrets hidden within, including her own. Robert comes to the realization that it's safer for Linda to have the Rolodex than Maxine.
Elsewhere, a sergeant spots Maxine in her car and informs her of an upcoming court appearance. In court, Robert accuses Maxine of stealing Norma's jewels, branding her a thief. Maxine retaliates, mocking Robert as a mere pool boy with no achievements. The judge intervenes, ordering both parties to present evidence at the next hearing and temporarily suspending the proceedings until legal guardianship of Norma and control of the Dellacorte estate can be established.
At Raquel's Havana Nights benefit, Evelyn asks Maxine to accompany her, only to discover that the keys are missing. As the fundraiser proceeds with a lively dance, Robert and Maxine's eyes are drawn to Raquel, who is wearing Norma's stolen necklace. Robert sees an opportunity and manages to slyly steal the necklace from Raquel through a dance. Maxine, seizing the moment, calls the police on Robert, resulting in his arrest. The police grant Maxine conservatorship of Norma, contingent on her providing full-time care. Maxine reluctantly accepts, seeing no other option.
Douglas is displeased by the unexpected turn of events, which forces him and Maxine to live with Norma. However, Maxine reveals a silver lining: a Feline Sanctuary will inherit Norma's wealth upon her demise. Despite the circumstances, they can still profit from Norma's situation, paying themselves extravagant salaries and diverting her funds into their own pockets. This unexpected turn of fortune offers them a way to navigate their new reality with a touch of irony and resilience.
As Maxine turned Norma over, her gaze fell upon a glinting object dangling around her neck. It was the key to the safe. Excitedly, she used it to unlock the secure compartment, only to find that the Rolodex was missing. Despite this disappointment, they did unearth a myriad of other items, including Norma's regal crown, sparkling in the dim light.
Evelyn, however, was unimpressed. She berated Maxine, calling her useless and stormed out, leaving Maxine alone with her thoughts. Undeterred, Maxine pressed on with her search. And then, her eyes fell upon an invitation, a wedding invitation for Penelope and Douglas.
As Maxine trudged home, her anger boiled over. The revelation was too much to bear. She burst through the door, yelling for Douglas, her voice echoing through the empty house.
