The fifth episode of "Ransom Canyon" unfolds with Davis and Quinn immersed in the tender aftermath of their intimate embrace. Davis casually mentions New York, prompting Quinn to declare resolutely that she has chosen to leave that chapter of her life behind, eager to embark on a new journey alongside Davis.
The following morning, an unexpected twist unfolds as Paula Jo arrives in town and brazenly makes her entrance by stripping down and joining Davis in his shower – at the very moment Quinn is inside. Embarrassed and enraged, Quinn hastily dresses and storms out. Davis returns shortly after, bearing breakfast, only to find Quinn storming out in a huff. It transpires that Paula Jo has taken on a new role as a board member for the Austin Water and Power company, purportedly returning to town to salvage Reid's inheritance.
Elsewhere, Lucas and Reid's bond deepens as they share an emotional conversation while rescuing a calf, putting an end to their persistent squabbles. Lauren finds this newfound camaraderie perplexing, but Lucas is determined to give Reid a fresh start, urging Lauren to officially end things with him.
Meanwhile, Ellie is beset with anxiety upon witnessing Yancy enrolling in the rodeo with just three days to spare. Undeterred, Yancy embarks on an intense preparation regimen. His former cellmates, relentless in their pursuit, repeatedly show up to remind him of their unfulfilled deal.
Back at the station, Dan confides in Kai and covertly initiates an investigation into the night of Randall's demise. He reaches out to Tim, Reid's friend who sustained a broken leg, who promptly alerts Reid that the Sheriff is probing deeper into the matter.
Paula Jo wastes no time making her presence felt. She approaches Staten, only to be rebuffed. In a moment of loose lips, she reveals Quinn's romantic involvement with Davis and mocks Staten for allegedly botching an opportunity with her. Additionally, it comes to light that Staten and Paula Jo once shared an intimate past.
Three days hence, the rodeo arena bustles with attendees, yet Staten's mood darkens upon witnessing Davis and Quin in close proximity. Davis, visibly agitated, hastily clarifies that his intimate relationship with his ex-wife has ceased. Meanwhile, Paula Jo seizes the rodeo as a prime networking occasion, gracefully approaching Cap and several council members.
Elsewhere at the rodeo, Lucas issues Lauren an ultimatum, demanding she sever ties with Reid. Across the grounds, Tom and Reid whisper about their concealed secret, unaware that Dan has silently joined them, casually inquiring about their whereabouts on the night of Randall's demise. To avoid alerting them, Dan maintains composure as they retreat to a secluded spot. However, Lucas stumbles upon their conversation, catching fragments about a blue truck.
Subsequently, Lauren breaks up with Reid, confessing that Lucas's intervention forced her decision. Enraged, Reid lashes out at Lucas with a punch.
Amidst this turmoil, Staten, driven by profound affection, confesses his love to Quinn and pleads for her choice. To his sorrow, Quinn responds that it is already too late.
As the day progresses, Yancy accumulates enough points to secure the second runner-up spot. To bolster his spirits, Ellie bestows a kiss upon him, hoping it brings him luck, and declares her trust in him. Yet, Yancy's companions devise a treacherous plan, instructing him to deliberately lose the final match. Cap notices Yancy's unease but refrains from probing further. Ultimately, Yancy defies their orders, triumphing in the game. His friends attempt to confront him, only to be apprehended by Cap for selling stolen cattle. Mercifully, Cap and Ellie extend a modicum of trust to Yancy. This trust wavers, however, when one of Yancy's friends warns Ellie that she is being deceived by a con artist, revealing that Yancy is not his genuine name.
The episode concludes with Staten engaging in an intimate encounter with Paula Jo, casting a somber note on the day's events.
