Episode 4 of Season 5 of "The Handmaid's Tale" unfolds with a poignant scene of June in the park, cherishing precious moments with Nichole. However, this tranquility is abruptly shattered by the arrival of one of Selena's fervent followers, who promptly chastises June, insisting that she is unworthy of the child's companionship. Amidst this confrontation, Luke stands firmly by June's side, offering unwavering support as she snaps back, their shared resilience evident.
Together, they seek solace and guidance in therapy, striving to navigate the turbulent waters of their emotions. Meanwhile, Mark makes a shocking decision, freeing Serena from the custody of the US government, reversing his earlier claim to reconsider. Under strict restrictions, she is now confined to the realm of Gilead, accompanied by her personal chauffeur, Mr. Shaw. Mark issues a stern warning, urging her to tread cautiously before bidding her farewell.
Later, Mark appears at June and Luke's doorstep, bearing the official news: Serena has been liberated from detention and will now represent Gilead from within a "Cultural Center" – an embassy, in disguise – established in Canada. The images of Serena at the funeral have garnered global attention, painting a distressingly successful narrative.
June and Luke, brimming with indignation, vow to root out Serena and the contagious spread of Gilead's influence beyond their borders. Luke's resolve is fueled by a desire to mobilize the entire city, whereas June, surprisingly, remains composed. That fateful night, June ventures out, unearthing her handgun, though it is encased in ice, its chambers stubbornly resistant. Her sharp eyes catch Serena peering through the window, and a tense stare-down unfolds, the air thick with unspoken fury.
June's anger is palpable, mirrored by Serena's visible unease at her fierce gaze. Upon returning home, Luke delves into hypothetical scenarios, outlining the potential consequences of June's taking Serena's life. The grim reality of each projection makes it clear that none of these outcomes promise a peaceful resolution.
Back at the hospital, Lydia endeavors to assist Janine, but her efforts are met with a chilly reception. Janine accuses Lydia of corrupting the girls rather than aiding them, as she believes is right. Meanwhile, June receives a letter from Serena, inscribed with the moniker "Offred," inviting her to the grand opening of the Gilead center. This invitation is nothing more than a calculated maneuver to provoke June, and it proves successful.
Enraged, June resolves that the only escape from her predicament is to ensure that everyone associated with Gilead is "laid to rest." Moira, quick to intervene, cautions June to adhere to the rules. "She's not worth sacrificing your family for," Moira urges. June, however, fears that this new reality may become her permanent state, filling her with dread.
Luke arrives at the Gilead Center to confront Serena, armed with a list of fifteen code violations that could shut down the facility. He even expresses his willingness to June's desire to eliminate Serena, though the prospect of reclaiming Hannah remains a forbidden topic. Yet, Serena manipulates Luke's emotions, questioning why he didn't rescue June during her captivity in Gilead.
Lydia visits Commander Lawrence, proposing a reformation for the girls' situation. In this envisioned new order, Lydia would oversee all the girls herself, with commanders and their wives attending once a month for the ceremonial act. Lawrence, however, rejects her idea outright, asserting that no reforms are forthcoming. Frustrated, Lydia returns to Janine, seeking forgiveness and assistance in monitoring the girls. She vows to embark on a new path, guided by compassion.
Chaos erupts outside the Gilead Center as two factions clash, leading to a violent altercation. June, brandishing a gun, threatens a man who strikes Moira. Luke intervenes just in time, preventing June from discharging her weapon. As they retreat to the rear of the building, they inadvertently encounter Serena. June hesitates, ultimately deciding against shooting her adversary, allowing Serena to escape unscathed.
Luke succeeds in shutting down the building, and he and June find common ground in their desire for Serena's demise. This shared sentiment culminates in a passionate lovemaking session, marking a rare moment of unity between them.
