Season 2, Episode 2 of "Reasonable Doubt" kicks off with an intimate conversation between Jax and Lewis, where she tentatively invites him to rekindle their cohabitation, only to find him deliberating on the matter. It's Corey's maiden day at the firm, and Jax is eagerly anticipating introducing him to the team, her optimism mirrored by a touch of skepticism from Crystal – until she lays eyes on him, undeniably swayed by Morris Chestnut's impeccable suave in a tailored suit.
Despite Jax's initial trepidation that the partners might be reluctant to embrace Corey, the newcomer exceeds all expectations. Born into a dynasty of renowned attorneys, Corey possesses a charm that captivates everyone in the room, swiftly securing his place among the elite of the firm.
Following the triumphant introductions, Jax leads Corey to Shanelle, where the shock of prison's toll on her friend hits Jax like a wave. Initially, Shanelle's resentment towards Jax's absence and sudden reappearance with a new attorney is palpable. However, a heart-to-heart with Corey melts her frost, convincing her that he's the legal knight she's been seeking. With promises of a strategy tailored to her case and a history of championing women in similar circumstances, Shanelle's trust in Corey solidifies, leaving Jax amazed at the swift turnaround.
Corey dives headfirst into his task, determined to reshape Shanelle's public image, which has been marred by accusations of greed and murder. The public narrative portrays her as a gold-digging opportunist who took advantage of her wealthy athlete husband's demise.
Meanwhile, Jax and Lewis embark on couple's therapy, grappling with their intimacy deficit. The therapist prescribes a date night as a remedy, urging them to move past the Damian shadow that lingers between them. As the day winds down, Jax finds solace in watching a video of Corey's captivating interview, a glimpse of hope amidst the complexities of their personal and professional lives.
He emphatically points out that Shanelle's inability to post bail stems from her being deprived of access to her husband's finances, a tactic ostensibly devised to sway public sentiment in her favor. However, Jax vehemently disagrees with this strategy and, in a decisive move, undermines Corey's meticulous planning by persuading Shanelle to secure bail. She takes charge, offering to rally the other women and arrange for the necessary funds.
Gathering at Shanelle's abode, the ladies embark on a mission to liquidate some of her lavish accessories and jewelry online, hoping to raise the required amount. Despite their diligent efforts, they still fall short, prompting Sally to take a drastic step. She confesses to her husband, Chris, about her involvement in Shanelle's escape plans and implores him to consider mortgaging their home to bridge the gap. Overwhelmed by guilt, Sally's plea, though heartfelt, fails to sway Chris, who listens intently but resolutely declines.
Meanwhile, amidst the turmoil, Jax and Lewis indulge in a romantic date night filled with laughter and joy, only to be hampered by excessive alcohol consumption that hinders their intimate moments. The aftermath brings an unexpected visitor in the form of an irate Corey, who storms into Jax's home the following morning, accusing her of thwarting his carefully crafted plan. The tension mounts as Corey confronts Jax, the air thick with accusation and unresolved emotions.
He seethes with rage, confronting her for her overwhelming emotions, accusing them of jeopardizing his case. Lewis' composure shatters upon hearing Corey's bellowing, demanding his immediate departure. He declares emphatically that no man shall address his wife in such a manner, least of all within the sanctity of her own home. This moment of fierce protectiveness renders Lewis all the more alluring!
With a miraculous feat of fundraising, Shanelle is finally liberated, and her friends rally around her with joyous reunions. Overwhelmed with happiness, she cherishes every moment spent with her girlfriends and children. Together, they embark on a ritual to purge their abode of nefarious spirits, turning the occasion into a lively celebration.
Meanwhile, Daniel delves into Tucker's financial labyrinth, uncovering a stash of funds secreted away in overseas accounts. He enlists the assistance of Carlotta to track the elusive funds, revealing that Tucker had shifted a staggering $30 million mere months before his demise. Corey, now comfortably ensconced in his new office, appears to have won over Daniel and Crystal's favor, even surpassing Jax in their esteem. As for Jax, she stands firm in her conviction, prompting Corey to drop the matter.
During their third therapeutic encounter, Lewis and Jax clash over the merits of their date night, Lewis lamenting the lack of intimacy. Their disagreement escalates into another heated argument, prompting the therapist to intercede with a novel exercise: a five-minute gaze into each other's eyes, sans the burden of keeping score.
Yet, Jax's inability to maintain sobriety during this test only fuels Lewis' frustration, who opts to spend the night on the couch, convinced that Jax is deliberately shunning vulnerability. In the heat of their spat, Lewis unwittingly reveals an indiscretion—a fleeting encounter with another woman during their separation. The following morning, Jax issues a stern warning, imploring him to refrain from emotionally wounding her if they wish to avoid perpetual conflict.
Later, she steadfastly accompanies Shanelle to Tucker's solemn funeral, where Shanelle stands tall and unwavering amidst the impending drama sparked by Tucker's mother. The mother accuses Shanelle of knowing her son's deeds yet remaining a passive observer. Shanelle is momentarily stunned by the vitriolic words hurled at her by protesters outside the funeral's sanctity.
Post-funeral, she confides in Jax, admitting her lingering fear. She begs for solitude, asserting that prison is where she feels she belongs, a statement that jars Jax deeply. Shanelle remains tight-lipped, leaving Jax perplexed. As Jax departs, Shanelle whispers a cryptic readiness into the phone, her intentions shrouded in mystery.
Meanwhile, Corey confronts Lucy, seeking insight into her enigmatic maneuvers, particularly her penchant for shifting DA offices. He probes if she's fleeing from something, striking a raw nerve. Back at the office, Daniel uncovers a revelatory truth: Shanelle was the one who orchestrated the transfer of Tucker's funds.
Corey ponders the rationale behind the money trail, instructing Crystal to arrange a meeting with Shanelle. Recognizing Shanelle's vulnerability, Sally extends a compassionate hand, offering to care for her youngest daughter. Shanelle gracefully accepts, visiting Sally with gratitude etched on her face, a bag in tow.
That night, Jax and Lewis's intimacy blossoms, culminating in Lewis's decision to reclaim his place within their home. The dawn brings news that unsettles them all: Shanelle has vanished, leaving behind only a note for her daughter, hinting at her abrupt departure. Jax rushes to Shanelle's abode, but it's empty, save for echoes of her absence.
Corey's call to Jax confirms the whispers—Shanelle is on the run. He further reveals the staggering figure of thirty million dollars, hidden away by Shanelle. The mystery deepens, and the search for Shanelle intensifies, as the truth about her actions and motivations remains shrouded in shadows.
