Episode 4 of Virgin River's sixth season kicks off with Mel and Jack gearing up for their respective festive gatherings. Mel's heart swells with joy anticipating Joey's arrival, while Brie and Kaia meticulously orchestrate every detail, sparking Mel's curiosity about their latest escapades. Across town, at Brie's abode, she and Mike engage in a heart-to-heart over their recently awkward encounter, with Brie extending a heartfelt apology for her harsh demeanor.
As the festive day unfolds, Mel inadvertently stirs up emotions within Joey. Joey feels wounded by Mel's casual reference to their mother as solely Mel's, and is further disappointed when Mel fails to mention that Brie will serve as her maid of honor, while Joey would take on the role of matron. Despite these minor mishaps, the revelry continues across various bars. Seeking to lift Joey's spirits, Mel encourages Brie and Kaia to let Joey take charge of planning something special. They end their evening at a karaoke bar, where Mel courageously defends Joey against a cruel heckler who mocks her singing. Following this brave act, the sisters share an intimate conversation, with Mel reassuring Joey of her unwavering bond and apologizing sincerely for causing her hurt. They reconcile, their bond mended.
Elsewhere, Lizzie unwraps practical baby gifts from her mother and finds solace in Ricky's comforting embrace, confessing her fears of becoming a mother. Ricky, with a gentle reassurance, paints a picture of her as a remarkable mom and devoted partner to Denny.
Muriel turns to Hope for a lift to her biopsy appointment, extracting a solemn promise of confidentiality. Upon their return to the restaurant, they join the sewing circle, where Hope's persuasive charm convinces the ladies to take a well-deserved day off and embrace some fun. The mood becomes lighthearted as they indulge in drinks, sharing intimate and hilarious tales from their lives. The evening takes an unexpected turn when Kaia and Brie, having forgotten to cancel, find themselves with an uninvited stripper who proceeds to entertain Muriel with a lap dance, adding an unexpected twist to their girls' day out.
In the midst of everything, Brady cautiously inquiries of Lark if her mother is ill, prompting her to question his trust in her. Meanwhile, at the hospital, Denny and Vernon confront a patient grappling with a neurodegenerative disease. This poignant encounter ignites Denny's contemplation about his future care as his Huntington's symptoms progressively worsen. He confides in Vernon, expressing his reluctance to become a burden and revealing his decision to forego marrying Lizzie, fearing he would ensnare her in the web of his caregiving. Vernon gently reassures him that he is not a burden to bear.
Elsewhere, the boys indulge in a thrilling game of paintball, where the younger generation emerges victorious, sweeping the older ones off their feet. However, the mood sours when Mike and Brady clash, evident of Brady's lingering heartache over losing Brie to Mike. Jack steps in, urging the men to let bygones be bygones and abandon their battle-worn mentality, reminding them that they are fortunate survivors.
Eventually, Mike and Brady reconcile, and Jack invites Ricky to join them for a football game. The boys rally around Ricky, warmly embracing him into the brotherhood of Marines. As the day of festivities draws to a close, Brady visits Lark and confesses his burgeoning love for her. He yearns for mutual trust between them, vowing to break free from the shackles of their childhood traumas. His tranquility is shattered by a voicemail from an inebriated Brie, who admits she cannot cease pondering over him.
Concurrently, Mel returns home, recounting her day's events, while Jack shares his experiences and announces his resolution to cease wearing his military uniform. The episode culminates in a tender moment as Jack strips for Mel, both of them succumbing to their desires and falling into a passionate embrace.
