Dean is shocked by Lane's past when a man she knew in New York arrives in Savannah; Nick helps Reese plug the leak on Edward's election committee, as he makes amends with Veronica. Meanwhile, an amorous Charles helps Peyton deliver a vicious birthday surprise for his wife; a prominent resident is targeted by death threats; and Reese decides to sell her share of the riverboat.

The newly elected Edward campaigns to persuade Reese that Nick is a gold digger; Lane's work with Terry unsettles Dean; and Peyton is snagged in her own trap when she tries to land a loan from Charles. Meanwhile, Tom recognizes Veronica's assassination ruse; and the riverboat's new owner and Reese get caught in a deadly revenge plot gone awry.

Tom points fingers to clear himself of the riverboat fire; Lane's innocent kiss with Terry sets Dean ablaze with anger, but it's she who cools to the idea of spending more time with her lying ex. Meanwhile, Peyton blocks Nick's funding for his part of the boat; and Edward loses Reese as an employee when she meets a shady character on her father's payroll.