The second episode of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel's fourth season commences with Maisel returning to her familiar surroundings, unpacking her belongings with meticulous care. She embarks on a familiar hustle, gracefully waving her tab at the dry-cleaner's, bakery, and pharmacy alike, hoping to stave off their demands for a few months, just long enough to sort out her financial woes.
Part of her plan hinges on Miriam cunningly suggesting to her parents that they move back in with her. She attempts to spin it as a favor to them, but her ruse is transparent. Abe and Rose, however, are not so easily fooled. They cleverly turn the tables, using Miriam's proposal to their advantage. To execute this plan, they devise a cover story, pretending to have bought the apartment back themselves, fabricating a tale of their own apartment deal falling through and temporarily moving in.
But as expected, things soon spiral out of control. Abe, working late in the bathroom, disturbs Maisel's sleep with the clickety-clack of his typewriter. Meanwhile, Rose reorganizes the kitchen with a fervor that borders on mania. Adding insult to injury, the milk delivery is canceled due to Miriam's lack of credit. The delivery had always been under Joel's name, and now, without him, Miriam is required to pay upfront—a feat she's unlikely to accomplish anytime soon.
After struggling unsuccessfully to sever ties with Sophie, Susie discovers that Tessie actually slept with Mr. B and is now working at the insurance company they defrauded. This revelation ensures that Susie will receive her cheque. This news comes just as Susie receives a frantic call from Miriam, lamenting her current predicament.
Susie's subsequent conversation with Harry Drake is a catalyst for her rejuvenation. People are talking about her, whether it's good or bad, and in the entertainment industry, that's always a step forward. With Miriam by her side, Susie attempts to coerce a gig, but her efforts are in vain. So, she excludes Billy and urges Miriam to take the stage. The results are predictable. Midge is ejected, banned for life, and hauled to the police station for impersonating a prostitute. Though she's swiftly released, it's a stark reminder of the precariousness of her situation.
That night, Susie appears, repaying Joel the money she owes him. He sternly warns her against gambling with Midge's earnings again, his words dripping with venomous wrath. His message is clear and unequivocal.
Concurrently, Abe receives his payslip, only to find that his earnings are a mere fraction of what he believes he deserves. Yet, he loves his job, pursuing his dream just as Midge does. As they sit together, sipping drinks, Abe asks Maisel, "Are you sure you can handle all of this?" They gaze into each other's eyes, contemplating their choices and the uncertain future that lies ahead.
