In 1981, a young Mia begins studying at the School of Visual Arts in New York City, where she meets the captivating photographer Pauline Hawthorne. Struggling to pay her tuition, Mia makes a decision that will change the course of her entire life. Meanwhile, in Ohio, a young Elena questions past choices as she adjusts to life with a fourth child.

Mia, Bebe, and lawyer Ed Lan prepare their case against the McCulloughs. Izzy grows closer to Mia over a shared experience while her relationship with Elena reaches a boiling point. Bill and Elena's marriage is tested. Trip and Pearl continue to explore their relationship while Lexie and Brian consider ending theirs.

Elena's bombshell reveal to Pearl threatens to forever damage Pearl's relationship with her mother. Moody feels betrayed when he discovers Trip and Pearl's secret. And the jury's divisive verdict triggers a series of catastrophic events, which leads three of our characters to leave Shaker Heights for good.