Episode 3 of Season 4 of "Sweet Magnolias" kicks off with Ty dropping Annie, Kyle, and his girlfriend off at school, setting the stage for a planned double date later in the week, to which they all eagerly agreed. At school, Kyle catches the eye of Dev, an avid follower of his Twitch channel, sparking a potential new friendship.
Returning home, Bonnie reveals a somber truth: Billie passed away from a sudden heart attack. She's in town to handle legal matters concerning her son's burial arrangements with Billie's lawyer. Bonnie insists on staying at Maddie's house during this difficult time. Meanwhile, Cal sends a text to the girls, prompting Dana to hastily depart after Erik offers to fill in as her substitute teacher. Maddie enlists Helen's help to accompany Bonnie to the lawyer's office, while she and the others attend to the kids and inform Noreen of the developments.
At the lawyer's office, Bonnie remains composed as Tom, Billie's attorney, informs her that her son wished to be buried in Serenity, adhering to specific burial instructions left behind. In parallel, Maddie discreetly breaks the news to Noreen and Isaac.
While staying at Maddie's house, Bonnie critically assesses her parenting skills, and Maddie strives to brush off her harsh comments, supported by Paula, who defends her daughter fiercely.
Elsewhere, Annie grapples with finding the right way to support Ty, her parents advising her to give him space while being present for him when needed. Simultaneously, Ronnie embarks on a YOLO spree, reflecting the mixed emotions Billie's death evokes in everyone. Isaac is conflicted, while Noreen and Maddie mourn for their children. The other children, too, are saddened by their father's passing but aren't ready to open up about their feelings just yet.
The following day, CJ Camp vandalizes the mayor's office as a protest against his father's job loss. Helen uncovers a Hail Mary moment while reviewing the budget, discovering sweetheart deals the former mayor struck with his cronies. If they can uncover more, they might salvage the town from further financial loss.
Meanwhile, everyone strives to lend their support to the Townsends during this difficult time. Cal and Erik reluctantly postpone the grand opening of their restaurant. Erik attempts to offer Isaac his unwavering presence, yet the situation proves to be intricate and challenging. Ronnie, determined to be more actively involved in Annie's life, crafts a meticulously detailed calendar for her. During their weekly Margarita gathering, the girls unite in solidarity around Maddie as she grapples with Bonnie's persistent criticism of her parenting skills. Speaking of Bonnie, she clashes with Paula once again when she raises doubts about Maddie's capabilities as a mother. Poor Cal finds himself unwittingly caught in the midst of these tensions.
On the brighter side, Annie and Lily endeavor to cheer up the boys by planning a heartwarming date night. The following day, Bonnie requests a meal at the Sullivan's, explaining that the stress of arranging Billie's funeral has left her with no appetite, save for a craving for their renowned Chicken Hot Pie. It transpires that Kathy has experienced a turn for the better and has been raving about Dana's restaurant to everyone she meets. Cal swiftly makes a call, and soon everyone converges to prepare a special dinner for the Townsends, with Dana bringing along her promising students, including the talented Willow.
Helen, deeply affected by Billie's passing, which strikes each person in unique ways, comes to realize the true value of time. Prior to dinner, she meets with Alex, and they mutually agree to end their relationship, understanding that sometimes paths diverge.
The dinner begins on a promising note, providing Noreen with her first opportunity to meet Bonnie. As anticipated, Bonnie stirs up drama by accusing Maddie of failing to grieve her son properly or teaching her children how to navigate their own grief. Noreen, unable to stand by silently, steps in to defend Maddie, igniting an argument that escalates the tension. The evening takes a turn for the worse when Bonnie recognizes Isaac and reveals his hidden truth to everyone present. Noreen is utterly astonishment, along with everyone else, to learn that Isaac is also Billie's son.
