Aria Montgomery

"Friends don't let friends sneak into insane asylums alone."

- Aria to Hanna

Aria Marie Montgomery is one of the main characters in the Pretty Little Liars television series on ABC Family. She is portrayed by Lucy Hale.

Biography
Aria Montgomery was the artsy and alternative girl in Alison's clique prior to her disappearance, sporting pink streaks in her hair. Alison and Aria discovered Aria's father's affair with a college student, Meredith Sorenson, one afternoon while running away from the nerdy Mona Vanderwaal, and found him kissing Meredith in his car. Ever since, Alison used the affair to keep Aria in line, knowing Aria was asked to keep it a secret. Her constant teasing about the indiscretion led Aria to resent Alison. Shortly after Ali's disappearance, Aria moved to Iceland for a year, and came back, sans pink highlights, becoming more mature. She meets her future English teacher Ezra Fitz in a bar, hooking up with him, leading to an on-again off-again relationship throughout the series due to A's threats. Due to the loose connection she and Ali shared, she is not a frequent target of A, but is still forced to deal with the misfortunes A brings upon her (ruining her relationships, driving a wedge between her parents). She can be described as a kind and caring friend, always willing to protect them from any threats "A" has. She was kidnapped by "A"' while being escorted to prison in "Welcome to the Dollhouse".

Physical Appearance
Aria has a pale ivory complexion complimented her with round hazel eyes and plump lips. Her natural dark brown hair is wavy and had pink highlights prior to Alison's disappearance. She has a petite frame and stands approximately at 5'2 ft, the shortest of her friends. As part of her punishment for not following his orders, Charles cut her hair short while keeping her prisoner in the dollhouse and she has kept it that length ever since. She had her hair brown in darkish blonde ombre. Her fashion motifs has printed dresses, boots, tights, necklaces, etc., and is interested in anything girly.

Series
Pilot
 * -|Season 1=

The series begins with a flashback in a barn, where Aria, Hanna, Spencer and Emily are having a sleepover. They are startled by their best friend and queen bee Alison, who frightens them by causing creaking noises outside the barn as a practical joke. The five girls gossip, drink and share secrets before falling asleep. When they awake, they realize that two of the girls are gone. Spencer then comes back telling them Alison is missing and that she heard a scream.

One year later and Aria and her family have returned home to Rosewood after living in Iceland for her father's sabbatical. Aria still feels troubled over her best friend’s disappearance which concerns both her parents who encourage her to reconnect with her old friends. Aria sees through her dad's concerns, however, and reassures him that she is still keeping his secret. She drops her brother off at lacrosse practice and stops at a Bar and Grille. There, she meets a man named Ezra who mistakes her for a college girl and informs her that he will soon be starting a new teaching post. The two feel an instant connection and end up making-out in the bathroom.

During a conversation with her father, we see a flashback of Aria and Alison catching her dad making out with another woman in the back of his car, a student. Aria begins to reunite with her old friends, mainly Emily, taking note of Mona and Hanna's transformations and the fact that all of her friends basically lost touch with each other after Alison's disappearance.

Sitting down for English class, Aria discovers that Ezra is in fact her new English teacher, Mr. Fitz. After an awkward moment, Aria receives a text message from an unknown "A" which reads "Aria: Maybe he fools around with students all the time. A lot of teachers do. Just ask your dad. -A." Aria attempts to continue her relationship with Ezra, but he rejects her telling by her everything has changed. This attitude doesn't last long though. During Alison's funeral, he finds her and won't let her say goodbye without one more kiss.

Later that night, Aria passes by Maya's house and sees Spencer. Aria comments that she heard Hanna had been to the police station and wondered if Hanna talked about The Jenna Thing. Hanna arrives and says that she didn't because they made a promise.

Aria meets up with Emily, Hanna and Spencer at the funeral, and they reveal that each has received a message from the mysterious "A." The police now reveal that the girls need questioning again as they are now looking at a murder case, before they each receive a text saying, "I'm still here, bitches. And I know everything. -A."

The Jenna Thing

Things are a bit tense at home because Aria knows Byron's secret and her mother still does not. Aria makes a comment to her dad about focusing on his family instead of work. Ella picks up on the weirdness, but Byron plays it off as a teenage girl thing.

Aria and her friends continue to be tormented by the anonymous "A," who seems to know all the secrets they told Alison, including the secret surrounding a mysterious blind girl, Jenna Marshall. When Aria invites Jenna to join them at their lunch table, her presence triggers a flashback to the night of the "The Jenna Thing." The four girls and Alison are having a sleep over and trying on each other's clothes when Alison claims to have seen Toby Cavanaugh spying on them through her window. To get revenge, Alison and the girls toss a stink bomb into his garage. However, it causes the garage to explode, presumably causing Jenna to lose her sight, a fact that Jenna seems determined to hang over their heads. Aria and the other girls are called down the principal's office to be questioned by Detective Wilden about Alison's death, now that her body has been discovered. Wilden thinks their stories sound a bit too rehearsed, but he can't prove anything.

Aria continues her illicit affair with Ezra, while trying to come to terms with her father’s own affair. She tries to transfer out of his class, which he reluctantly agrees to, but the school denies the request. Apparently, she and Ezra have the same taste in movies because Aria and her mom run into him at the movie theater and spend an awkward afternoon together. Later, he picks her up in the rain and they give into their feelings once again.

Back home, smiling, she passes her father sitting alone in the living room and he starts to seriously talk to her about Ella knowing something is up. He basically asks her to continue keeping his affair a secret, explaining that the woman he cheated with now works at Hollis College and he has to see her periodically. He makes excuses about his affair, and right on cue, Ella walks in with Mike, bringing Chinese takeout. Aria goes upstairs to change, but takes a look at her picture-perfect family sitting together happily before ascending. Then she gets a text from "A" warning her that her secret relationship with Ezra may not be a secret much longer...

To Kill a Mocking Girl

While enjoying breakfast with her parents at a café discussing the book she is reading for school, "To Kill a Mockingbird." They tell her to read the author's biography next, and Ella goes inside to order more food. Alone, Byron unwittingly asks if Aria likes her teacher, flustering her ever so slightly. Just then, Meredith, the student Byron had an affair with, shows up, and Aria flashes back to the two of them making out in her father's car; they had noticed that they were being watched. Byron flounders a little, before introducing Aria and Meredith to each other, and Meredith asks in a chipper voice if Byron received her message. Meredith wants a referral from Byron, and he seems willing to help. Meredith tries to make conversation with Aria, but Aria coldly cuts her short. Meredith smiles intensely at Byron, and Byron smiles back, to Aria's chagrin.

Ezra bids Aria good morning before the contents of Spencer's locker come spilling out. Aria senses Spencer is stressed out, apparently drowning in her schoolwork.

Aria then corners Ezra in his classroom and asks him out on a date, making plans to hang out after the opening at the gallery and to tell her parents that she is at Noel's party. Ezra feels a little awkward, but reciprocates somewhat when Aria tries to touch him. Mrs. Welch walks in, cuing Aria's turn to exit.

Aria then arrives at her mom's gallery to find unsuspecting Ella chatting and laughing with Meredith. Ella announces she has invited Meredith to the gallery opening the next night, and Aria is horrified. As soon as Ella is out of earshot, Aria tells her to get lost and find someone who's available, unlike her father.

Aria attends Noel's party, but leaves early to attend the gallery opening. There, Ella and Byron talk and laugh happily as they stand together entertaining guests. Suddenly, Meredith shows and Aria walks up to her to kick her out of the party, but Meredith just shrugs when Aria brings up the previous day's conversation, saying she can do what she wants, and takes Aria's glass from her hands.

Later, Aria knocks on Ezra's apartment door (3B), and he opens it, happy to see her. She asks to come in, clearly upset, but Ezra says it isn't a good idea. She apologizes, but before she leaves, Ezra asks if she is okay and offers to drive her home. She reveals that home is the last place she wants to be, and he holds her close, there in the hallway, while Aria is badly in need of comforting.

The next day, the girls reconvene in the woods to create a memorial for Alison, a place they can go to remember her together. They change their minds about the location and decide to pick a more public place for the memorial, someplace not so difficult to get to. They hear someone near them in the woods and run away, stumbling upon the friendship bracelet Alison used to wear, perhaps planted by whoever was in the forest with them.

Can You Hear Me Now?

Spencer has had enough of "A," blocks all unknown numbers and emails, and encourages the girls to do the same. Aria can't help seeing Ezra around town; he rides his bike past her and her friends, who all comment on his "nice legs." Aria continues to see Ezra, making plans to have dinner at his place to discuss the status of their relationship.

At the Montgomery's, Ella is cooking dinner. Aria lets her mom know that she can't make it for dinner tonight, and Ella informs her that Mike also has other plans, so dinner will be a romantic evening for two for Byron and Ella. Just then, Aria again flashes back to her father's kissing Meredith in his car. This time, she additionally recalls how Ali had tried to convince her to tell her mother what she saw. When Byron tried to call Aria, Alison had warned her not to pick up, correctly suspecting that he would try to talk Aria out of revealing what she saw. Alison had warned Aria that she could risk losing both parents if she didn't tell. Aria says, "Mom," like she is about to tell her something important, but instead she asks for a carrot and walks away, leaving Ella curious.

After the tour at Ezra's, they discuss the problems her parents are having in their marriage. A misunderstanding causes Aria to leave early, believing Ezra was calling her immature, while he was only trying to express she might not be aware of all the facets of her parents' relationship.

The tension is evident the next day in English class. A class discussion over a character's hypocrisy in the assigned novel they are reading, "To Kill a Mockingbird," turns awkward when Ezra vehemently defends Aria's opinion to a student named Sperling. Ezra jumps down his throat, accusing him of not attempting to understand the book. Eventually, he comes to his senses, realizing other students may be picking up on the weirdness.

Later, Aria heads to Ezra's apartment in a fury. She blasts him for the way he handled the class discussion, snappily defending her in a way that people could detect something amiss. She also goes off about the suggestion that her parents have an arrangement, telling him that he doesn't understand the situation. But Ezra defers to Aria and doesn't try to argue. Instead, he tells her that he would like to get to know her better and closes the door.

They talk candidly, and Aria comes to the conclusion the most she can do is tell the truth. She leaves with the intent to tell her mother about the affair. When Aria returns home to her mother, she discovers Ella sitting in the living room. She announces that she has something important to tell her, but before she starts, Ella hands her the note she received from "A" revealing Byron's infidelity and Aria's knowledge of the affair. Ella walks away, wordlessly. It appears "A" has found other ways to get to the girls. Ella is devastated and Aria feeling more guilty than ever for keeping it from her.

Later, Spencer sends an S.O.S. to Emily and Aria, and the girls gather in front of Spencer's vanity, which has been vandalized by "A." The girls sleep over at Spencer's. The next morning, Aria reads them the letter "A" sent her mom. Then they get a text from "A," which includes a video which was recorded from inside Spencer's closet. They check the closet and find the lipstick used to write the message on the mirror. Aria notes it is Alison's exact shade.

Reality Bites Me

At home, Aria listens while her parents fight. After Byron leaves, Aria apologizes to her mom for keeping his secret for over a year. Ella is shocked and hurt that Aria has known for so long, but doesn't blame her. Before class, Aria congratulates Spencer on her new academic achievement. Then Aria then meets up with Ezra in his classroom to see if they can make plans after school. He hesitantly lets her know that he will be reading some of his work later at a bar. Thrilled, Aria asks if she can come, and Ezra bashfully agrees warning it could get ugly if it doesn't go over well.

At the poetry reading, an old college friend of Ezra's named Hardy is in attendance as well. He spots Aria, who is clearly there to support Ezra and introduces himself as Ezra's old roommate; in turn, Aria admits that she is Ezra's student. Ezra then comes over, surprised to see Hardy, and the three hang out, playing darts, eating French fries, and sharing old college stories with Aria. Back at his place, Aria lets Ezra know how much she enjoyed herself. She makes a comment about college guys which Ezra uses to pick a fight, and start a conversation about their relationship. Aria convinces Ezra that when they're alone with no one to judge, it feels right. Ezra asks her to stay, but Aria has to get home, promising to cook him dinner tomorrow night.

At home, Aria tries to comfort Mike about the fact their parents are fighting. The next day, she shows up at Ezra's door with groceries in hand and learns that she accidentally left her phone there overnight. Evidently, Ezra intercepted a message from "A." Assuming it’s a friend of Aria’s she confided in about their affair, he quickly puts an end to their relationship without allowing for an explanation.

Later, Aria makes dinner for herself and Mike, trying to shield him from the negativity of the household.

There's No Place Like Homecoming

Another day, Hanna, Spencer and Emily arrive at Aria's to console her with Chinese take-out and rag mags – thinking she’s sullen from her parents' marriage troubles, when in fact she’s depressed over the breakup with Ezra.

While discussing their plans for homecoming dance, the girls open their fortune cookies to find another prank from "A" notes cluing them into the fact that he or she will be attending homecoming as well.

Aria tries to approach Ezra at school, but he claims to be late for a staff meeting. Hanna visits Aria's house later to get ready for homecoming. She comforts Aria about her family situation and unsuccessfully tries to get her to admit who she's crushing on. Hanna assumes it is a boy in Iceland and insists she move on. At the dance, Hanna and Spencer joke with Aria that they will share their dates with her.

Aria is assigned to the same booth Ezra is working. She tells him again that she did not tell anyone about them and that "A" is not a friend; that someone is messing with her. She nearly tells him about The Jenna Thing, but stops because it's not only her secret to share. When given to the opportunity to leave the booth, she takes it. She returns to her friends and they discuss Emily's surprising choice of a date. Hanna tells her to occupy Sean while she heads off on an important errand.

Later, Ezra sees Aria dancing with Sean and walks away looking disappointed. She spots him and follows after him down the hall away from the dance. She tells him that she knows it's over, but she can't stand the idea of him hating her. Ezra says he could never hate her. He regrets not being able to take her on real dates in public and is afraid he's asking too much of her. He admits to only coming tonight in hopes of seeing her. Things are left unresolved as they go their separate ways.

Aria and the other girls search for Emily and are distressed to discover broken glass and blood in the chem lab, fearing the worst. The next day, Aria and Spencer visit Emily at home to fill her in on Toby's sordid past with his stepsister, Jenna. They try to get Emily to tell the police the truth about what happened last night, but she's not even sure what the truth is. Hanna brings Toby's therapist file and the girls argue what to do with it.

The Homecoming Hangover

Aria begins to wrestle with the separation of her parents, further mitigated by their refusal to actually speak to each other and instead communicate through their kids. Ella won't attend Mike's lacrosse game so that she won't have to sit with Byron. She tries to contact Ezra, but he won't return her many phone messages. On top of all of this, she receives flowers from a surprise suitor - Sean, who admits to having fun with her at Homecoming once Hanna ditched him.

Aria looks for Ezra at school, but instead finds a substitute filling in for him. In the hall, Sean expresses his interest in Aria, but she cuts him short and reminds him that Hanna loves him, and taking revenge on her by asking out her best friend is low. He agrees, and just then, Mike comes barreling through the hallway, physically fighting with another student. Sean helps Aria break up the fight, and Mike walks away ticked off.

Aria tries to visit Ezra in his apartment, but he is nowhere to be found. She uses the key under the mat to get in, and while she's inside, hears the answering machine record a message from a New York school confirming their interview with Mr. Fitz the next day.

Please, Do Talk About Me When I'm Gone

Aria, Spencer, Emily and Hanna begin to prepare for Alison’s memorial. The memorial sparks memories of a summer day that the girls had spent lounging by the shore of the lake when Alison had romanticized how fabulous it would be to die in a mysterious way. Ali's brother, Jason, walks in and basically takes over the planning of the memorial. Aria wonders aloud how he managed to get into an Ivy League school.

At school, Aria flashes back to her last conversation with Ezra before he disappeared and tears down an outdated Homecoming poster. Hanna lets Aria know that Sean's friend, Noel, wants to ask her out and tries to convince her to double date after school. At first she says no, citing her mental preoccupation with her parents' marital troubles, but after recalling how she used to have a crush on Noel, she accepts Hanna's date offer. She flashes back again to that same summer day and remembers how she and Alison had spotted Noel with a girl named Prudence. Alison had torn into her too, suggesting that she was anything but chaste with Noel and provocatively suggested that she had gotten a boob job. Aria had enviously ogled at Noel applying sun block on her back. As if reading her mind, Alison asked if she would "also" do something like that to get Noel's attention. She then teased Aria for falling for brainy guys. She also called Noel immature and simultaneously perfect for Aria, flustering her.

Later at Hanna's house, Hanna pushes an uneasy Aria closer to Noel. Whether for reasons of missing Ezra or family issues, Aria is distant during dinner. Noel confronts Aria about her cold behavior, suspecting Aria of being stuck on a boy in Iceland. Aria plays along, as the truth is close enough, and realizes aloud that she needs to move on (from Ezra), as that relationship will never be what she wants it to and can only end badly. Aria mentally lets go and gives Noel a chance.

At the memorial, all four girls, plus Jenna, speak about their dearly departed friend. They notice Ian Thomas, Melissa's ex-boyfriend, is in attendance. Afterwards, at Spencer's house, Jason comes to thank them for everything and gives them Ali's beaded name bracelet as a token of appreciation; she was wearing it at the time of her death. The girls are all shocked because they thought they were already in possession of this bracelet. Turns out there are two.

The Perfect Storm

A huge storm is on the horizon, as Aria, Spencer and Hanna study in preparation for the SAT exam the next morning. Emily is nowhere to be found, though. Veronica drives them to the test, which seems like may be canceled, or at least postponed, due to the weather. Soon, they all run into Detective Wilden bearing shocking news: somebody has trashed Alison’s memorial, and he’s there to investigate. The girls cover for Emily without knowing why.

Aria gets a surprise of her own when she spots Ella, there as a volunteer proctor for the exam; a tense moment is shared as both are still resentful from Ella’s sudden move out of the house. Aria has been avoiding visiting Ella's new place, for not wanting to validate her mother's decision to separate from Byron.

After it has become clear that the SAT is being postponed, Noel convinces Aria to sneak out from the crowd and join him in an empty classroom as he shows off his musical talent on the guitar. Aria displays musical talent of her own, singing along to Noel's playing. They share some kind words of understanding and grow closer. A moment of attraction brings them to almost kiss, but the elusive Mr. Fitz walks in on them, interrupting their moment. A possibly suspicious Noel leaves, but Aria stays behind for an explanation from Ezra. He explains he went to New York to deal with his "issues" and had time to think about the consequences of their relationship. He says things need to change. Aria says they already have and walks out, holding back tears.

Back in the locker room, Noel checks if everything is alright with Aria and compliments her singing voice. They continue to chat until Aria sees Detective Wilden hustle Emily into the library to answer questions. Aria and the other girls follow, and listen as Wilden accuses Emily of destroying Ali's memorial and worse. He reveals a personal letter Emily had written and exposes the secret she had been hiding from her friends - that she was in love with Alison. Emily's friends all stick up for her, then Mrs. Hastings walks in and threatens the overzealous cop for his unprofessional behavior.

A little while later, Aria tries to comfort Emily, assuring her that her friends all still love her, and Alison did too, even if it wasn't in the way she would have wanted. Afterwards, Aria makes a date with Noel for Saturday, and exchanges a happy look with her mother, deciding not to let her parents' marital troubles affect her relationship with them.

Keep Your Friends Close

At school, Mona Vanderwaal hand delivers invitations to her "glamping" party. Aria, Spencer, and Emily don't plan to attend until they get a text from "A" baiting them with the prospect of learning more about "A's" identity should they go. At the Montgomery's household, Byron is struggling to keep up with his new responsibilities as a single parent. Aria attempts to work on the overwhelming pile of laundry. Things are also still awkward between Byron and Ella, as the latter has asked him for space.

In school, Aria stands in the cafeteria, talking to Noel. He asks her out, and she accepts, planning a date for the weekend. Her budding feelings for him are complicating her uncertain relationship with Ezra. Ezra sees the two talking, then makes a remark about him being on the football team when Aria walks past him. Aria defends Noel's character and his appeal, but he says she can be with whoever she wants to be with. He is clearly not thrilled to see her with someone else though.

Next, the girls are called to the principal's office, once again, for questioning by the police. An FBI agent named Agent Cooper arrives; she has been enlisted as the representative of the FBI to assist the Rosewood Police in the murder mystery. Her approach in questioning is far milder than that of Officer Wilden. She does not seem accusing, rather wanting information. She shows them footage (sent by an anonymous source to the Rosewood Police Department) of Alison on the day that she disappeared. She asks the girls to provide as much information as they can provide and they cooperate.

Later, after being questioned by Agent Cooper, Noel walks up to Aria's locker to ask her about being called to the principal's office. She is nonchalant about it and in general until she opens her locker and book of poems falls out onto the floor. It has a note from "A" telling her to read page 22, which has a free verse poem written by Ezra Fitz. Noel asks her what it is, but she is so entranced by it, she doesn't care that he is suspicious and brushes him off to find a quiet spot and read the poem. She is so moved by it, she marches up to Ezra in his classroom and tells him that he is hypocritical for writing what he has and then denying he loves her. Ezra listens without answering much as Aria digs into him. Then, Noel appears in the doorway of Ezra's classroom and asks what's going on. Aria replies that nothing is going on and leaves Ezra fuming. Noel glowers at him before turning too, and Ezra heaves the book across the room in frustration.

The girls gather at Spencer's house and Spencer reveals to them that she and Ian briefly dated during the summer Ali disappeared. She tells them how Ali reacted seeing them kiss. The girls are understanding, unlike Alison had been. Then they see Toby's photo flash across the TV screen. Apparently, they found a sweater with Alison's blood on it in his closet.

At lunch with her mother, Aria discloses how much she felt that Alison hated Toby. She cannot believe how duped they were by her. Aria then looks down and sees paint stains on her mother's hands; she is happy to see that artistic side reemerge. When Ella mentions that it is due to dealing with the lies, Aria feels remorseful and asks her mother if she blames her. Ella answers that she would have preferred Aria to have told the truth, but understands that she was in a very precarious position in the middle of her two parents.

That evening, the girls plan to attend the party at the Rosewood Camping Grounds, and Hanna plans to secretly stake out the woods near the party, should "A" rear his or her head. Aria and Spencer arrive at the party together, taking in Mona's huge stack of presents, as well as the massage and makeover tents, in addition to the lavish dessert and refreshment stands. Mona welcomes them to "Camp Mona" and hands them custom-made sweatshirts for the occasion.

At the party, Emily fills the others in on Toby's confession before they start roasting marshmallows and getting their hair done in crazy 80s 'dos. A text from "A" sends Spencer back to the woods near the Kissing Rock, where she finds a woven bracelet with the name "Jenna" planted there. Hanna calls to let them know that she is on her way, but their phone service is unreliable. Also, Aria gets a text from Ezra that he needs to see her. After this, the girls get a text from "A" which tells them they are looking in the wrong places, so Spencer figures they should visit the right ones - or "Wright's" Playground.

Back at the party, Spencer wants to tell the others that she's cracked the clue about "Wright's Playground." She locates Emily, but not Aria, who has disappeared. Meanwhile, Hanna is on lookout with binoculars in the woods. She sees a car pull up and someone get in. She strains to see in the dark and realizes it is Mr. Fitz's car and Aria just got into it! Sure enough, a figure Hanna assumes to be the elusive "A" shows up and writes "I see you" in the condensation on the back windshield. Hanna tries to get a hold of Aria to warn her, but Aria is deep in conversation with Ezra and doesn't pick up her phone. Ezra has come to reconcile with her and apologize; he explains that he had left school in order to find another job in order to make their relationship work. He asks for her forgiveness and the two begin kissing passionately. (Obviously, Aria's pending date with Noel is off.) They do not notice the person writing on the car.

Hanna texts the girls "I know who A is" and directs them to meet her in the parking lot. Hanna's discovery yields possibly fatal results because when she gets to the parking lot and spots the girls, she’s quickly hit and flung over the top of an unknown car, whose driver doesn't stop to assess the damage. The girls rush to her side and call 911. A text from "A" reveals that she/he is responsible. Hanna "knew too much."

Aria, Spencer and Emily are left unraveled after Hanna is hit by a car, presumably driven by "A," on the night of Mona's glamping party. An unconscious Hanna is lifted on a stretcher and taken into an ambulance. Mona approaches the scene in the parking lot and is shocked to find out that Hanna is the one being treated. Before Aria turns to leave with the other girls for the hospital, she makes eye contact with Noel, who is wearing a black hoodie.

At the hospital, Aria calls her mom to tell her what happened to Hanna. The girls have a brief debate over what to do and come to the grand conclusion of waiting until they can talk to Hanna. The next day, Ezra shows Aria the troubling "I SEE YOU" message written on the back of his car, and they discuss it in the middle of town in broad daylight. Aria insists that it doesn't mean anything and wipes it away with her sleeve.

The girls finally make it to the hospital to see Hanna, but first they have to get rid of Ashley so that they can talk candidly. Once Hanna manages that, she reveals two bombshells she discovered: that Aria is involved with Ezra Fitz and that Noel Kahn must be "A." She witnessed Noel run up to Ezra's car while Aria was inside and write "I SEE YOU" on his windshield, albeit without signing it from "A."

Spencer is surprised to learn that Aria’s affair has been going since Labor Day. Aria says she "didn't just get into his car last night. Who do you think I am?" There's a knock on the door, and... it's Noel! Aria tells him Hanna's sleeping and takes him into the hallway for a chat. She tells him Hanna will be okay and takes the little teddy bear gift basket he brought. Noel eyes her and ominously tells her that they need to talk. She promises to call him, then asks him where he was last night. He lies, saying he was with Sean. At Aria's house, the rest of the girls rule out Ian as "A," since he was with Melissa the night before. Their new suspect is Noel and the girls enlist Aria to find out exactly what Noel knows.

Aria is tinkling away on a piano when Noel finds her, so they can have their chat. She tells him that she saw him at the campground after the accident. He claims that he had just wanted to scare a bunch of girls in the woods. Noel admits that he saw Aria in Ezra’s car and doesn't deny that he was the one who wrote on the window. He offers to go to the principal with her, asking what Mr. Fitz made her do. She tells him it's not like that and makes him promise not to say anything, which he does, reluctantly.

Later, Aria waits for him in his empty classroom. He agrees the writing on the window was probably nothing. They talk about their complicated relationship and discuss whether it would be better had they never seen each other in the bar that first day. Aria admits he makes her miserable sometimes, but not unhappy, and she would not go back and change things if she had the opportunity. He agrees. Ezra wants them to "move forward, together."

Spencer and Aria walk in the woods and talk about Aria's affair with Ezra. Spencer declares it to be both self-destructive and really hot. It turns out they're looking for the tree with the "Alison <3's Ian" carving, but it's been conveniently chopped down!

Aria and Spencer arrive at Spencer's house to talk. Ian invites them outside to drink a toast of champagne. Spencer demands Ian explain what they are celebrating and why he had canceled varsity practice that day. Ian admits he and Melissa have eloped! Only Aria has the sense to utter a congratulations.

The girls are contemplating the possibility of "A" and the killer being two different people when they discover an "A" message on Hanna's cast.

The girls wheel their helpless friend Hanna back into her home, where she‘ll be on bed rest for a few more days before returning to school. They get the rest of her belongings from her room and when they return, Hanna says they can get going. In school, English class ends, but Aria stays for a bit of extra help. She tells Ezra that Noel left the message on his car, but claims there's nothing to worry about; he might have known about them for a while and would have said something by now if he was going to. Ezra doesn't want to discuss it here, so Aria invites herself over to his place later.

Ezra stares wistfully out his classroom window when Aria approaches. Ezra tells her about Noel's request earlier (to change his grade in exchange for keeping quiet). Aria grabs his hand until they're interrupted by Jenna. She just needs his signature, and she's sorry to interrupt.

Mona throws Hanna a party to which Noel shows up. Just the sight of Noel prompts Hanna to have a flashback about him at a different party, when Alison had manipulated a girl to dump Noel, so Aria could have him. Noel sees Aria enter and tries to make small talk when Aria accuses him of blackmailing Ezra for a higher grade. Noel denies it and tells Aria it's all in Mr. Fitz's head. Aria tells Hanna she wants to leave, and Hanna makes a joke about hot faculty parties. Hanna says Aria should have told them a lot sooner because they tell each other everything. In another flashback later, Aria and the girls greet their friend Alison back from a weekend visit to her grandma's in Georgia.

At the Montgomery's place, Aria's dad has made breakfast for Aria and her brother, then reveals that their mother is dating other people. Mike does not take the news well. Over at school, the girls continue to suspect Noel, who chats up Mike, to Aria's surprise. Then Aria invites Hanna to join her for coffee after school. Hanna lies and says she has physical therapy, when really she will be at Lucky Leon's on "A's" orders. Aria sees her there looking upset. She capably gets rid of the athletes who are oinking at her and asks Hanna why she lied about physical therapy. Hanna confesses that Alison taught her how to throw up after binges and now "A" is using this information against her. Aria tries to console Hanna about the whole situation.

Aria grows increasingly suspicious of Mike's burgeoning friendship with Noel, especially when Mike tells Byron and Aria at the dinner table, rather unwittingly, that Noel has been spreading a rumor about Ezra being with one of his students. Byron reacts scoldingly, knowing all too well how an illicit relationship with a student can permanently ruin one's teaching career. Mike assures him it's true. Noel saw them and would be telling the principal tomorrow. Aria, flustered, makes up some excuse about studying with Spencer and runs out to her car.

Of course, she ends up at Ezra's, where he tells her that the lying and sneaking around is over. Apparently their relationship is the "most real and honest thing" in his life. Ezra has decided to resign and leave Rosewood so that Noel has no reason to tell on them. Apparently Noel has made him feel like what he's doing is wrong, and he doesn't want to feel like that. Aria tells him she loves him, and they kiss passionately. Later, she calls home and lies about spending the night at Spencer's. He lights a candle and she leans on him on the sofa, both hoping this isn't the last time they'll hold each other.

The next day, Ezra stands in his empty classroom preparing to resign. He exchanges a wistful look with Aria while walking down the hall. The principal, along with a security guard, is escorting Noel to his locker where the stolen answers to 3 midterms are found. Ezra looks beyond relieved and ducks out just before Aria and the girls receive texts from "A," taking credit for setting Noel up.

The girls are at Spencer's house, and Aria is all smiles because "A" saved her relationship. Hanna reminds Aria that "A" also tried to run her down, but as long as Ezra gets to stay in town, she's happy. Melissa comes in and makes some pleasantries with the girls, which ends in her telling the girls that she doesn't have to worry about Ian looking at other women. Then, the girls surprise Emily by sneaking her away for one last romantic night with Maya who is waiting upstairs. Downstairs, the girls go through Ian's boxes, but don't learn anything of import. Maya and Emily return and Maya says thanks and goodbye to the girls.

They then receive a video from "A" of the night Alison disappeared. Unlike the video shown to them be Agent Cooper, this video shows Ian on the other side of the camera. They scream in shock, then hear a noise outside. Whoever it is runs through the woods, and the girls try to chase the stalker, but the person is gone by the time they get outside.

The girls continue to examine the video "A" left for them. Right after Ian's cameo on the video, he surprises them in person, as he tries to grab a late-night snack from the Hastings' kitchen. The girls all freak out while Ian makes small talk, acting nonchalant, so there's no indication whether he saw his face on the computer screen or not. After he leaves, they decide they need to hand the video over to the police.

At school, the girls are decorating for the school's upcoming dance-a-thon, but take a break to discuss whether they should turn the video into the police. Aria agrees with Emily that this video could exonerate Toby and offers to drive Spencer to the police station during their lunch break.

Next, Ella meets up with Aria in the gymnasium, bringing along Simone, who used to be Aria's babysitter and role model, and is now her role model, a "published author" living in New York City. Just like Aria's dream future! Aria's mom has invited Simone to speak to her English class and runs over to Ezra to offer him Simone's services, in more ways than one. Simone offers Aria some career advice. Ella returns to tell Simone she'll be speaking to Ezra's class and will then be meeting him for a coffee date. Aria is predictably awkward about the whole thing.

At lunch, the girls get ready to head to the police station when they realize that Spencer's laptop is missing. The girls deduce that it must have been taken when she left it in her gym locker, which Ian has access to since he is an athletic coach. Aria shows up at Ezra's unannounced with coffee. It turns out he was reading one of Simone's short stories before meeting with her for coffee. Aria gets jealous, but Ezra points out that her mother was being insistent, and he needs to pretend he's single. When Ezra is ready to leave, in a desperate move, Aria offers to stay and read or maybe clean out the refrigerator, but he turns her down, telling her to go. He gives her a kiss, and they leave, separately, as a precaution.

It turns out that Aria's parents are both chaperoning the dance and they exchange awkward pleasantries. Meanwhile, Simone wanders over to Aria and jokingly begs her not to request a Backstreet Boys song. She explains that she has come to see Ezra, and Simone can sense that Aria might not want her there. Later, Ezra chats with Simone about Prague and absinthe and other adult subjects. Aria, totally jealous of how much the two have in common, interrupts their conversation and is promptly embarrassed when her former babysitter brings up her stuffed Cookie Monster from childhood. Aria retrieves Ian's keys from his coat and leaves, passing them along to Spencer.

Aria makes some comments to her mother about Simone and Ezra, but luckily her mom gets the wrong idea and thinks Aria is jealous that Simone is going after Ezra instead of spending time with her. Her mom unwittingly makes a comment about how it's hard to find the right guy, and sometimes, you have to go for it. She pats her on the head and says someday she'll understand.

Later, Aria sees Ezra and Simone together again, this time on the dance floor, and jealousy takes over. She marches up to them and demands, "We have to talk." Spencer sees what is happening and intervenes, asking Mr. Fitz to dance, giving Aria a chance to cool off.

Outside, in the parking lot, Aria says that Ezra would be better off with Simone, who is smart, pretty, and accomplished, and sheds a tear. Ezra replies, saying that he is in love with someone already, meaning Aria. He moves in to kiss her, but backs up, knowing that anybody could see them in the school parking lot.

Aria rouses the girls early in the morning from their sleep at Spencer's house. She's been up all night analyzing the picture that "A" left them. The girls all huddle close to Aria, but Spencer stands aloof, not quite comfortable participating for some reason. Aria has figured out that the picture was taken from the perspective of Alison's bedroom window. She thinks Alison's brother, Jason, may have taken the picture. Hanna notes that her mother saw him at the bank, indicating that he is back in town. Aria proposes talking to Jason, but Emily and Hanna treat the thought of approaching him with disdain. Spencer quickly volunteers, wanting to know if he indeed took the picture.

Aria and Spencer ask Hanna about the conversation they heard her having with her mom, but she brushes it off. Then Spence gives Aria two tickets to a museum, as her father has no use for them, though he's a member. Aria plans to make a date night with Ezra out of the tickets.

Next, Aria shows up to Ezra's classroom, where he is administering a makeup test. Under the guise of asking Mr. Fitz to look over her assignment, she presents him with a gift tie (that she is wearing with a post-it that reads "wear me") and the tickets for the following evening. Ezra goes along with it and accepts, not being able to keep the elated look off his face.

The next day, in the hallway, Aria and Ezra exchange a meaningful look, then Aria spots Hanna and invites her to a joint manicure after school. Hanna declines, using homework as an excuse, which makes Aria raise an eyebrow. Aria takes Hanna's glum mood to be about her breakup with Sean, which prompts her to mention the challenges of her own relationship with Ezra. While on the subject, Hanna suggests that Aria and Ezra cool off and not go to Philadelphia for her date that night. At first Aria is confused, but then she interprets Hanna's remarks as signs of jealousy and walks away, insulted by her friend.

At lunch time, Aria, Spencer, and Emily sit eating the less-than-appealing school lunch. Aria still feels hurt by Hanna's comments, but doesn't say anything. She checks out the gift-wrapped box Paige had given her teammate, Emily. Inside, she finds a "Go Sharks" beaded bracelet – just like the ones Alison gave the girls. Spencer gets the idea to go to the store and try to investigate who commissioned them to make the fake "Alison" and "Jenna" bracelets.

When Aria goes to Ezra's apartment, decked out in heels and a red dress, ready for their date, she can't find him. Then Ezra pulls up in a limo, commenting on how good she looks and why a limo is much better than the train. The driver opens the door for Aria allowing her to get close to Ezra in the backseat. The two spend a romantic outing in Philadelphia, pleased they don't have to conceal their kisses and hand holding in public. The next day, Aria tells Hanna it was one of the best nights of her life.

Ella then catches her daughter in the school hallway and invites her to go shopping after school. Ella asks how Aria's sleepover at Spencer's was the night before, and Aria lies. Aria changes the subject by asking how Ella's night was. Ella replies that she had gone to see an exhibit opening at the Philadelphia Museum. Alarmed, Aria does a double take, but Ella interprets Aria's shock to be about the fact that Ella had done something so eventful on a school night. Aria is freaked out and doesn't seem to detect that her mother is lying, despite her making up a fictitious story about meeting the guest artist, who had been absent the night before.

At Spencer's house, Spencer reveals to the other girls, who are sitting beside her on her bed, that it was HER shadow in the picture with Alison. Spencer admits that the reason she had never told the girls thus far was because she had felt responsible for wishing Alison dead. Aria wisely points out that Alison had said far worse, and the other girls comfort her similarly. Suddenly, the girls all move to Spencer's bedroom window, where they see Jason DiLaurentis in his old house across the street, looking out on his own window in their direction... They are shocked to see him inside.

At Aria's house, Byron lets Aria know that he won't be home that night, as he has a meeting with the head of his department, and dinner will be included. He commissions Aria to order takeout for herself and her brother for dinner. It seems that Byron is having difficulty coping with all the responsibilities of being a single father; Aria reminds him that he still needs to write a check honoring the pledge from the dance marathon. He calls to her to grab his checkbook from his coat pocket, and along with it, Aria finds a ticket to "Basia," the art opening at the Philadelphia Art Museum. She panics and questions her father about it; he lets her know that Ella's car had broken down, but that she had borrowed his car and been the one to attend the museum Thursday night (a lie). He is vague about the last part, correcting himself with he thinks that she went. Aria is petrified that she was seen, while Byron tries to hide his own secret. Byron does not give away any more details and tells her to ask her mother if she is curious. He hands her the check and leaves for work.

At school, Hanna and Aria discuss the new school news: someone has been breaking into the vending machines to steal food and also triggering the school alarm at 3:00 AM in order to leave the building. Aria then brings up the ticket to the art gallery. Hanna tries to persuade Aria that the whole thing was just a weird coincidence. She hurriedly leaves Aria to go talk to Caleb.

Then, Ella passes her daughter in the hallway and lets her know that she has just been speaking to the principal about her and Ezra. Aria panics, but it's not what she thinks. Ella finds the 'intimate' teacher-student relationship inspiring and has praised it to her colleague. Aria inquires about the ticket she found, but while Aria was afraid that she would be the one interrogated, her inquiry turns into an interrogation of her parents. Ella admits that she didn't end up making it to the museum, because went out to lovely dinner with 'a friend' instead.

In Aria's room, Hanna continues to try to distract Aria from stressing about the gallery ticket and what would have happened had her mother's car not stalled. Aria then overhears her father on the phone with someone, saying that he plans to meet him/her in the dark. Aria is sure from the conversation that Byron is talking to a woman, and Byron denies that he was speaking to Ella when Aria asks. She is especially suspicious because he had said that he was going to a department dinner, but at least Byron has the sense to admit that those plans 'fell through." Aria's wants Hanna's help in getting to the bottom of this new mystery. She gets Hanna to join her in stalking her father.

Next, Aria's suspicions of her father having another extramarital affair lead her to Rosewood High School of all places. Hanna has the bright idea to have Aria call her mother, who is in the school library. On the phone, Ella tells her daughter that she is at home, and Aria lies likewise. Unsure, Aria goes into the building with Hanna on her heels to check out what's going on. Crouching inside the library, they see Byron and Ella making out, having an intra-marital affair! Aria's parents leave.

Then, while still in the library, Hanna notices some stuff inside the vents, including clothing, bags, cell phones and a fat wad of cash. Hanna posits that this stuff belongs to "A." Hanna then grabs the cash before being chased by a frightening figure in black. Aria and Hanna run for their lives, before, Hanna instinctively sprays her chaser with hairspray. Eventually, Aria and Hanna realize that their pursuer is Caleb, who has sleeping at the school and the one who had triggered the school's alarm system the night before. Hanna returns Caleb's money to him. Caleb even lets the girls in on his foster care situation that has driven him to find alternative places to live.

Hanna, Spencer, Aria and Caleb all sit together in the stands of Emily's swim match. When Caleb gets up, Aria and Spencer express their surprise at and disapproval of Hanna's new buddy. Hanna isn't too affected. They all cheer for Emily. After the match, Spencer decides to walk home and Aria gets a text from "A" alerting her that Hanna almost got her busted somehow. Aria approaches Hanna about the text, though she is initially prepared to trust her friend before she trusts "A." When Hanna drops the bombshell that she was the one who gave Ella the ticket, Aria is unforgiving, leaving the two at an impasse. Aria doesn't give Hanna a chance to explain about Caleb messing with Ella's car.

Aria is still hurt by Hanna’s betrayal, and so decides to sit apart from Hanna and the other Pretty Little Liars while they meet up in Spencer's room. The girls discuss the strangeness of Melissa's rapid change in life plans. They use a website to decipher the three letters of the Braille message: B-A-D. Aria decides it must be a joke that Toby is playing on them and leaves in a huff.

At school, Hanna gives Caleb back his soggy hat. Aria watches from a distance before determinedly approaching Hanna to forgive her, as she realizes that they’re both contending with a more evil power in "A," who is clearly trying to tear them apart. She acknowledges Hanna's attempt to undo her mistake by pulling the kill switch on Ella's car.

Spencer, Aria, Hanna, and Emily sit down for lunch. Spencer expresses her disapproval of Hanna's growing relationship with Caleb, declaring him dark. But, Hanna reminds her friends that they had treated Toby the same way, silencing them. Spencer and Aria talk on the phone from their respective bedrooms, except Aria isn't in her own—she's in Ezra's. Spencer realizes this when a wailing firetruck passes by, but doesn't hear the siren on the other end of the line, which she would if Aria were at home. When she hangs up, Ezra returns with take-out food and lets Aria know that he is scheduled to meet her father the next day during parent-teacher conferences. Aria assures Ezra that her father doesn't bite...

The girls shop at a clothing store, where Aria and Hanna explain to the other two what their quarrel was about. They discuss "A" and Caleb, and Hanna reveals to her friends that Caleb is crashing at her house. The girls express their shock, but stop short when they spot Jenna trying something on in the lingerie section of a department store.

After parent-teacher conferences, Ezra tells Aria he is sure her father hates him. Either that, or he's crazy. Aria is skeptical.

After school, Aria chats with her father as he returns from work. She asks him how his meeting with Ezra was, shocked to hear that Ezra was right; Byron admits to having a very unfavorable opinion of her teacher, accusing him of lacking talent. Aria tries to defend him to no avail until she fills him in on the fact that Ella's date with Ezra is not exclusive; half of the English department will be there. He suddenly softens, and, at a loss for words, walks away.

Another day, Ezra and Aria are alone in his apartment fooling around when Byron's voice comes over the answering machine, apologizing for the way he acted, inviting Ezra out for a beer, and decidedly killing the mood.

Ezra is directing a play called The Bad Seed. Aria goes to the tryouts at 4 PM to support Hanna and act opposite her, with no intention of joining the play herself. However, the girls urge Aria to be Ezra‘s stage manager for the production, so that she can spend more time with him. The other girls, in addition to Mona, are interested in getting parts in the play. Jenna enters the scene and offers to compose flute music for the play, letting Mr. Fitz know that she approves of his choice of play, because she oddly finds it "inspiring," and thereby annoying Aria.

Aria surprises Ezra in his apartment before school. There, Aria convinces Ezra that going for drinks with her father is a good idea, as it will allow him to appreciate the man in her life, even if he doesn't know the extent of it. Aria mentions how she'd like her friends to see how special he is as well, lying that she hasn't told them about their relationship. He says they like him just fine; as a matter of fact, he just cast them in the play. Aria ambushes Ezra with the idea of making her stage manager for the school play. Though initially uncertain, he is powerless against her persuasive arguments and agrees. Aria is excited she will get to spend so much time with him on and off-campus working on the play.

At play practice, Aria and Ezra prove to have an uncomfortable, awkward working relationship, namely Aria's slipping up by referring to Mr. Fitz as 'Ezra' while seated next to him. All the PLL's are present, as well as Mona, who raises an eyebrow. Ian mistakenly enters the room and the girls all comment about how creepy he is.

Later at school, Aria apologizes to Ezra for slipping up. She offers to find a replacement for the play, admitting it wasn't a great idea to join in the first place. It seems that more is bothering him than just the play; he was upset to hear Byron mention Aria applying to colleges in California. Aria reassures him that she imagines them with a future and that she only applied to a single college in California, and in Ezra's favorite city at that. However, Ezra is much more unsure of the possibility of their relationship working out, catching Aria by surprise.

The girls recall a frat party they attended last summer with Alison. They saw Ian there with another girl while he was dating Spencer's sister, Melissa. They now regret not telling Melissa about it, especially since the girl wound up falling down the stairs, or was pushed.

Play practice ends and Spencer stumbles upon a trophy in the prop box with Ian's name on it. They believe it to be the murder weapon and go straight to the police station to turn it in. On the way home, Aria stops at Ezra's. She marches into his apartment and quickly states what's on her mind, not letting Ezra get a word in edge-wise until she's done. She lets him know that she's quitting as stage manager. She declares that worrying about the future shouldn't affect their relationship, as there are no guarantees in life anyway, but they should enjoy what they have while they have it. In response, Ezra kisses Aria, and the two make up.

The next day at school, some police officers and a detective appear to take girls to the police precinct for questioning. The trophy they turned in was not the murder weapon and now they all look suspicious. They get a text from "A," letting them know just who was responsible for the trophy set up. Reflecting again on the night of the frat party, Aria considers the possibility that Ali had been the one to push the girl, and Spencer concurs that it was possible that she had done it in a jealous rage because the girl had been with Ian. Aria vividly recalls that Alison had been nowhere to be found most of the night. Suddenly, the girls look up to see Ian casually watching them from the steps.

The girls are all interrogated separately. Their parents convene in the hall after the interrogation, believing they are the victims of a "cruel prank." The girls compare notes; none of them mentioned Spencer's fling with Ian.

Aria walks in on Ezra talking to Jenna about a short story she is entering into a writing competition. Aria pretends not to know much about the incident which caused her blindness. She arranges to meet him at his place later to cook.

Later, when Jenna and Aria encounter each other in the bathroom, Jenna uses the opportunity to mock Aria's connection to Mr. Fitz. It is unclear how she knows that it is Aria in the bathroom, but Jenna strikes up a conversation all the same, mentioning how she would like Mr. Fitz to assign 1984 as class reading because "big brother is always watching." When Aria counters that controlling is not Ezra's type, Jenna retorts that she must know him better...

When Ezra arrives home, Aria has already prepared dinner and is wearing a knockout purple dress which causes him to say, "Wow." He mentions why he was late and how he can't stop thinking about Jenna's story, which makes Aria uncomfortable and jumpy. She asks him to change the subject.

The next day (Saturday), Aria joins Emily in her room, rather than spending the day with Ezra, as is her usual Saturday pastime. Emily gets a text invite from Paige to a picnic, and Aria gets three texts from Ezra, ignoring each one. After Emily questions her, Aria confides her frustration about keeping "The Jenna Thing" a secret from Ezra. Emily encourages her to confide in him, though Aria isn't as sure, especially given the agreement the girls made to never reveal their secret to anyone.

After two hours of pacing his block, she finally builds up enough courage to go talk to him. Tears trickle down her face while she explains that he may never look at her the same way again once she says what she's about to say. She tearfully tells him everything and, afterwards, thanks him for looking at her the same way he did yesterday. He says nothing she just said changes anything; he still loves her.

The Liars receive S.O.S. texts from Spencer, and the three congregate on her front lawn to find out from "A" that the Rosewood police have made Spencer a "person of interest" in the murder of Alison DiLaurentis and have begun to stake out her house.

At home, Aria catches onto her parents' secret romance and the fact that Ella stayed the night when she sees two dirty coffee cups on the kitchen table when she wakes up. Her mother tries to pretend like she is just arriving, but Aria confronts her parents with what she (happily) knows. Aria offers for her and Mike to cook dinner tonight where they'll all eat together as a family again.

While sitting at lunch, discussing Hanna's newfound happiness with her friends, Aria quickly drafts a text for Ezra about wanting to look into his eyes, but the text is accidentally sent to Ella instead. Aria then goes to her mother's classroom to chat. There, her mother teasingly confronts her with the text, curious who Aria's new love interest is. She is not too concerned, and when Aria gets secretive, she gives her daughter the space she requests. Aria is a bit short with her, but Ella is allowing and even deletes the text to appease her daughter. Not before teasing her about watching her in the halls to figure out who the secret boy is.

This, combined with the possibility that the cops might search her house like they did Spencer's, gets Aria thinking about taking precautions. So, she creates a bag full of Ezria mementos and gives it to Emily for safekeeping, so as to protect the privacy of her relationship with Ezra. She leaves one thing out, though - a book by Sherwood Anderson dedicated to her by Ezra - too special a memento to give away. She leaves it on her bedside table.

While Aria gives her bag of mementos to Emily for safekeeping in her locker, they overhear Caleb mysteriously speaking on the phone with someone and get the impression he is cheating on Hanna. When he gets off the phone, Aria and Emily hide before Caleb can see them. When they share their suspicions with Hanna at lunch, she is loathe to believe in his dishonesty. All four girls are shocked to see Jenna walking by wearing the owl pendant Hanna assumed was for her. Later, Ella sees Aria texting on her phone from a distance and pauses, contemplating her daughter. Then, the girls all look on to see Jenna reveal the pendant to be a hidden flash drive.

The next day at school, Emily and Aria talk at their lockers. They walk with Hanna into the bathroom. When Hanna sees Jenna, she walks up to her and surprise slaps her across the face, to Emily and Aria's shock.

After Mike hears their parents fighting about how to deal with Aria's secrets, he angrily confronts Aria. He yells at her for aggravating their parents' fragile relationship by keeping secrets about some boy. He tells her to break up with him, or pretend to; just do whatever it takes to get their parents to stop fighting. Things are further aggravated when Ella blows off their dinner plans, leaving her children and husband to dine alone.

At school, Caleb approaches Aria to request that she speak to Hanna on his behalf, but she doesn't want to get involved. The plus side of their conversation, though, is that Ella walks by as Caleb is talking to her at her locker and assumes that he is Aria's mystery boyfriend. Aria rolls her eyes while Ella mouths to her that he is cute.

Aria catches up with Ezra in the hall to ask him about their plans for the upcoming Founder's Day Festival. Just then, Aria spots Ella, so she purposefully knocks the coffee out of his hand. Bending down to clean up the mess, she is able to (somewhat) discreetly whisper an invitation to Ezra to a quiet weekend together instead of going to the festival, but he does not answer definitively.

Aria lets herself into Ezra's apartment with the key under the doormat. Ezra is not there, but has told her to go ahead and order takeout. In the meantime, Aria sits herself down at his desk, and taps his computer. The screen turns on, displaying Ezra's online social network page. On it, she sees a tagged picture of Ezra embracing a woman sporting a diamond ring on Ezra's website profile. Aria clicks on the picture to enlarge it and learns that this woman's name is Jackie Molina. Ezra calls her from school to see how she's doing, and Aria responds that she can't stay, without revealing what's bothering her.

In Emily's room, the girls congregate to discuss what Jenna may have been looking for. They also discuss the creep factor in Caleb rifling through Hanna's belongings, invading her privacy. But, Aria comes to Caleb's defense, knowing how tempting it is sometimes to go through somebody else's information, such as her boyfriend's web page. Emily suggests coming clean to Ezra about it, but Hanna tries to convince Aria to create a page of her own posing as one of Jackie's past classmates in order to sneakily find out more about the status of her involvement with Ezra. Hanna later coaches Aria how to set up a fake profile and get Jackie to accept her friend request.

In her room, Aria checks her computer to see that Jackie Molina has accepted her friend request. But, thinking better of it, she defriends her and closes the computer. Going with Emily's advice instead, Aria rents a number of wedding themed DVDs to watch with Ezra. Ezra picks up on the hint, and Aria uses it as a conversation starter to confront Ezra about his past mysterious fiancée. Ezra comes clean to her, confessing to have almost married this woman until she broke it off. However, he assures Aria that he has no second thoughts about her and does not think about Jackie while he is with her. They proceed with the movie marathon.

Ezra falls asleep during one of the films. Aria wakes him up to put on a pair of brown paper bag masks that she has fashioned in order for them to take a picture together without revealing their identities. He plays along, and the two playfully don the masks. Suddenly, Aria gets a text from Emily letting her know that she's found the key, and Aria reports that she has to leave, heading for Emily right away. Garrett Reynolds then turns a corner, possibly having seen Aria exit the apartment.

While waiting for Spencer near the festival, Aria encourages Hanna to talk to Caleb, who is boarding a bus, but she refuses. Thanks to the key Emily found, Emily, Aria and Hanna track down a secret storage location. There, they uncover a flashdrive contained in a lunch box belonging to Alison. The flashdrive contains videos of the girls being spied on through the window, and one damaging video of Jenna and Toby. Aria is understandably creeped out. Spencer comes up with the idea of asking Jenna what she knows, before taking the information to the police to incriminate Ian. The other Liars aren't so sure; they don't think they can trust Jenna at all, but Spencer is adamant.

Back at home, Aria eavesdrops on her parents discussing the upcoming faculty mixer before showing herself. As her mother talks, Aria glances at her text messages and finds a bunch from Ezra, warning her that a cop had been over and they need to talk.

Aria anxiously rushes to school to find out what's going on, fearing the worst when he says he just met with the principal. Smiling, he says he just turned in his resignation because "Hollis offered me the job." Aria punches him in the shoulder because she was certain they'd been caught. Ezra apologizes, explaining the cop was there to ask about Spencer, the trophy, props, etc. The real news is how happy he is he and Aria will be able to be seen out in public together, at a coffee shop, or a poetry reading - they don't always have to be looking over their shoulder anymore. He informs her that he'll be attending the faculty mixer at her house tonight. She offers to give him the tour, suggestively offering to show him her room.

In the school music room, the girls confront Jenna about the incriminating video they found of her and Toby. Jenna tells them how Alison visited her in the hospital and threatened to expose the video should she ever tell anyone about the Jenna Thing or return to Rosewood. Jenna asks what the girls are going to do with the video. They assure her they’ll keep it safe – but she won’t be getting her hands it.

At lunch, Spencer presents the other Liars with an anonymous cell phone that they can use to anonymously text Ian. Hanna sends him a blackmail text. When Ian gets the text, he immediately leaves the cafeteria to take care of it. They set a place to meet, then all go their separate ways.

At the mixer, Aria answers the door to face none other than Ezra's ex fiancée, Jackie Molina, who explains that she works at Hollis. Aria, taken by surprise, leaves Jackie standing at the door and storms off. Ezra spots her leave and sees Jackie at the door, realizing why Aria might be upset. Alone in her room, she tells him that she can't help but think that he still has feelings for Jackie. Ezra says that he didn't know she would be there; he hasn't seen her since last summer and she was just a TA back then. Aria points out that up until then, Ezra was the only guy who had never lied to her. Disheartened, Aria leaves him standing in her bedroom, speechless.

Aria, Hanna, and Emily wait for Spencer in the woods where they arranged to meet Ian. They get a text from "A," warning them to prepare, though the girls aren't sure for what. Emily calls Garrett for backup, and he shows up in his personal car, wearing civilian clothes. Ian fails to show. Instead, a messenger boy with a sack of cash arrives in his place, and Officer Garrett corners him. He tells them they can go; he will take care of the messenger.

In the car, they get a call from Spencer, hearing her entire fight with Ian at the church, including his entire plan for staging Spencer's suicide. Knowing how much danger she’s in, they rush to save her and dial 911. When they arrive, they find Spencer very shaken, but physically unharmed. They see Ian hanging from the bell tower ropes, dead.

Later, the girls walk out of the church together, but are stopped when Officer Barry Maple calls them back to ask if their story is a joke. He can see the confusion on their faces, so he motions the girls to follow him into the church. Inside, the see that the bell tower is indeed empty, and Ian’s body is nowhere to be found. Much of the town emerges, including Aria's parents, to see what the commotion is about, and Rosewood is left to wonder just how much truth the girls have been telling. They all receive simultaneous messages, as "A" assures the girls that this is far from over.

In the aftermath of Ian's apparent death and disappearance, the girls are brought to the police precinct by Officer Garrett Reynolds, who pauses along the way to make sure none of them speak about his involvement in the extortion scheme.
 * -|Season 2=

With Ian's body missing and the entire town of Rosewood questioning what exactly happened the night before at the church, Aria and girls have a lot of explaining to do. The police and their parents are not quite sure what to believe, the girls' parents rally together the next morning to try and help the four girls, informing them they will start seeing a therapist. Now being forced to talk out their problems, Aria, Emily, Hanna and Spencer feel more alone than ever, even with a reassurance that everything they discuss won't leave the therapist's office.

Back at school, Aria is chatting with her mother in the hallway. They discuss the family situation, and Ella announces she plans to move back home. Aria is happy to hear it. The rest of the school is abuzz with rumors about the girls’ story. Mr. Fitz erases a damning hangman meant to spell out “LIARS” drawn on the board. Then, Noel, back from his suspension, waltzes back into class, rudely remarking about the drawing on the blackboard. Aria and Spencer exchange pained looks.

Ezra beckons Aria to speak privately in the classroom. Spencer reminds her she doesn't have to go. He checks if Aria is alright after hearing about the incident with Ian and asks if she wants to talk about it, but she is uncommunicative. He tells her nothing has changed, he is here for her and still loves her. Ezra tries to apologize about Jackie, but Aria is mostly unresponsive. He asks if they are over, and Aria can't manage more than a "I don't know..." She leaves the room and he looks very upset.

In the therapist's office, the girls sit silently. Hanna walks in late, hoping to have missed the whole appointment, but to her annoyance, the girls have "politely" waited for her. When they finally do get to talking, they speak minimally. Aria is the most tempted to confide in the inviting Dr. Sullivan, especially about "that thing," but their cellphones go off, scaring them with reminders of what "A" might do if they tell. The session ends with Dr. Sullivan remaining completely in the dark. Outside, the girls spot the day's headline, "What Really Happened?" referring to their story about Ian.

That day after school, Aria does decide to make an appearance at Ezra’s place. There, shirtless Ezra assures Aria he believes she and her friends are telling the truth about the Ian incident. He offers his support to Aria. She says she feels like things have changed. Ezra says she can ask him anything and Aria is curious to hear more details about Jackie. He tells her Jackie wasn't ready for a commitment and assures Aria that she is not a rebound, but cannot bring himself to lie and say he wasn't still in love with Jackie when he first met Aria. He promises he was never thinking about anyone else while they were together. Ezra asks her to spend the rest of the day, like they usually do, but Aria declines. She tells him she's spending Sunday with her family and that she'll see him Monday. Outside, Aria receives a text, containing a picture of Ezra’s desk in his apartment. "A" claims something is missing and Aria instinctively looks under the doormat to find Ezra’s key gone.

At Emily’s place, Aria informs the crew about the missing key and they consider "A’s" compulsively violent tendencies and violation of their personal space. They bring up Dr. Sullivan, who is sworn to confidentiality, and Emily and Aria are the loudest proponents in favor of cluing her in on their secrets. Spencer agrees, and even Hanna, the most unwilling to see a shrink.

Back at the therapist's office, Emily takes out her computer to show Anne the videos taken of them through the window, but decide to explain the situation first. Aria begins to speak, but is cut off by Spencer who catches sight of Ezra’s Hollis diploma on the wall, a subtle hint that "A" is privy to everything they say. They had scheduled the appointment last-minute, yet they suddenly cancel, leaving Dr. Sullivan completely baffled and frustrated with the lack of communication. Outside, Aria stuffs the framed diploma into her bag. They discuss what a close call that was.

At home, Aria writes in her diary. Her parents walk in and inform her that she and her friends will be taking an indefinite break from each other. Dr. Sullivan believes their closeness may be preventing a breakthrough. Aria is crushed.

Spencer texts the girls, who must sneak out of their homes to rendezvous in the middle of the night. They meet in an abandoned greenhouse to discuss the possibility of Ian being alive and texting Melissa. With Melissa's phone, they ask the texter claiming to be Ian a question only the real Ian would know the answer to. The girls get spooked when the response is correct and they hear a noise from above, as if they are being watched. On their way home, they pass the DiLaurentis House, where Jason is standing on the curb, disposing the rest of the Ali memorial paraphernalia that Maya's family apparently didn't have the heart to get rid of. The girls are surprised to see him back in Rosewood and back in his old house.

At school, Aria is cold towards Ezra when he attempts to be friendly. She accuses him of not letting her know about his last day on the job being Friday, and not being clear enough about what to expect after he packs up his desk. He feels he's been perfectly clear about how he feels, but that they won't be able to figure things out before the next bell. She finally consents to meeting Ezra in his apartment the next day to sort out the complicated details of their relationship.

In the hallway, Mona catches up with Aria and asks her to pick out the farewell gift for Ezra. Aria initially tenses up when Mona asks her, afraid that Mona is onto their romance, but Mona merely points out that she was his stage manager and had worked closely with him, so she knows him best. Aria accepts, but when Mona asks her to step in with Hanna on her behalf, Aria flatly declines. With annoyance, Aria reminds Mona that she isn't hanging out with Hanna at this time. Mona asks why, seeming completely oblivious to the news about Ian and the bell tower, then suddenly remembers. Mona seems understanding of Aria's point of view as she leaves.

During lunch, the girls stand on line in the cafeteria together, trying to discreetly catch up on each other's news. Hanna then plops her tray down at the same table where Aria is sitting, but Spencer protests, reminding her of their forced separation. Hanna is defiant, thinking this will only make them look more guilty and further arguing that they should stick together amidst all the confusion, but in the end, they opt to sit at different tables.

During a flashback, we see the girls having a picnic outside Alison's house. Jason comes looking for Ali and accuses her of messing with his stuff. Alison makes fun of him then admits to her friends that she did indeed take his stuff.

Later, Aria gets a call from Ezra, while waiting for him in his apartment, as per their agreement. Ezra is stuck in a meeting with his new employers at Hollis College, surprised by how the long the meeting has gone. Aria is frustrated, thinking that this should have been anticipated, but she agrees to wait for Ezra in his apartment a while longer until he comes home. After getting off the phone, Aria pulls out Ezra's diploma from her knapsack and replaces it on his desk. After waiting over an hour, she calls Spencer for advice, but gets none. Growing more and more impatient, Aria starts pacing Ezra's apartment trying to busy herself while she waits. She receives a text from him asking her to wait, and she rolls her eyes. After pacing restlessly for a while longer, she pens a letter to him explaining that she has decided that she just can’t make their relationship work. She leaves it perched in the typewriter's output and finally leaves his empty apartment.



Meanwhile, Aria approaches Spencer's door. She sees a pane of glass is shattered and walks into the house, stepping over the glass. Scared, she calls out Spencer's name, when, suddenly, a black hooded figure shoves Aria into a bank of cabinets, causing her to fall backward and lose her shoe. The figure runs out of the house, literally a thief in the night. When Spencer returns, she calls the police, comforting Aria. They assume that the burglar is "A," but Aria brings up other recent burglaries in the town. Spencer posits that the burglar could be "A," but points out that Ian is a possibility as well. The two girls grow more afraid as they consider the possibility that Ian was in the house, looking for Spencer.

The next day in English class, Ezra uses his last moments with the Rosewood High students to give a parting speech. It is given to the whole class, but the innuendo is clearly intended for Aria alone, telling what an unexpected sense of loss he feels leaving and that he'll never forgot their time together. The other Pretty Little Liars no doubt pick up on the subtext, as well as Aria, who sits somewhat uncomfortably in her seat. After class, Aria does not approach Ezra right away, but silently broods over his words, remaining in school, while everyone else leaves. Suddenly, overcome with regret for letting him go, she rushes into his classroom, only to see it empty. She then catches sight of Ezra outside the window, packing up his car against the twilight. She chases him down, calls out his name running to embrace him, and the two kiss passionately.

Spencer gathers the girls for a walk near her house to show them the latest evidence in the search for Ian. Just then, Jason walks by and notes the girls' presence. They ask him about the dirt up heaved in his yard, and he responds that it is some planting that he is undertaking, in addition to a fence, which he says is for privacy and security.

At school, the girls secretly meet in the girls' bathroom since the ban on seeing each other is still in effect. Aria tells the girls about the class she'll be taking at Hollis and then suggests they meet somewhere else to talk next time.

Following their therapist’s advice to maintain separate lives, Aria enrolls in an extension course at the Hollis College where Ezra works. While on campus, Aria and Ezra revel in the fact that they can outwardly show their affection for each in public, noting that her father isn't there on Fridays. The two lovers share a kiss, not realizing that a stunned Jackie is eyeing them from across the way.



Aria channels her inner artist and signs up for a pottery class at Hollis College. Not only does the class qualify as "separate time," but it also gives her an excuse to see Ezra on campus, so there are benefits on both sides—that is until she finds out Jenna is also taking the class. She tells Ezra she wants to switch into another course, but Ezra convinces her not to, thinking the two artistic girls will finally be able to get past their rivalry.

The next day, the girls sit parked in Emily's car. Aria offers Hanna advice about dealing with her parent's confusing relationship. She reads Emily's Letter of Intent from Danby and is excited for her friend's good news until she realizes Emily forged the letter. Aria doesn't think it's a good idea, but Hanna does, and reminds Aria taking a class with Jenna is not the best idea either. Aria still hasn't decided what to do about that situation.

Aria deals with this new Jenna situation by pretending to be a student named Anita, and Jenna is none the wiser. Things get complicated when Jenna asks 'Anita' for help cleaning up. Jenna confides in 'Anita' about her desire to see sunlight hitting water again, getting very emotional from the memory - until she realizes that the voice of Anita is actually Aria's. She gets hysterical and screams at a distraught Aria to leave.



Later, the girls gather in Spencer's room waiting for the opportunity to spy on Melissa. Aria laments she may have made things worse with Jenna. As soon as Melissa leaves the house, the secretly follow her, hiding behind the bushes in the yard. Melissa talks to someone who pulls up in a car. Aria recognizes the driver as Wren. He hands Melissa a closed shopping bag; Spencer wisely guesses it contains pain killers for Ian.

The next day, Aria, Hanna and Emily wait outside for Spencer in the skeevy parking near a pawn shop, discussing the oddness of Wren and Melissa's rendezvous the night before. Spencer comes out and reports the bad news - she basically stole her sister's wedding ring. Just then, they look up to see a creepy sign for an optometrist, with eyes bearing down on them, making them feel like someone is watching them.

At home, before school, Ella comes to Aria's room to tell her breakfast is ready. They are both happy things are back to normal at home, but worry Mike may not be on the same page. Then Ella informs Aria she will be taking over Mr. Fitz's English class. Aria is surprised, but tells her mom she is happy for her.

When Ella catches up with her in the hallway at school, Aria promises she was only saying goodbye to her friends, who she is still banned from seeing, and then critiques and compliments her on her first class. Ella mentions that she needs Aria to pick up her brother Mike later from playing basketball to return his keys and also discourages her from spending time with her friends in the hallway, to Aria's utter annoyance.



Spencer calls Aria, who is alone in her home and scared. When Mike comes home, he scares her by not speaking up when she asks who's there. She confronts him about his lies, but he brushes her off, as he is not dealing with his transitioning family situation very well. Mike says if Aria tells their parents he hasn't been playing basketball every day after school, he will tell them she has been sneaking off to see her friends.

At home, Aria awaits news from Spencer. Mike walks by and their dad picks up on Mike's abnormal behavior, but Aria denies knowing anything about it, having been threatened by Mike to keep silent. With a pointed look, Mike forces Aria to agree she saw him playing basketball today.

Spencer calls the girls to join her in trailing Melissa. In the car on their way to find Ian, the girls discuss how screwed they are that they can't call the police, since that only ever makes them suspicious. From inside an old barn that Melissa led Wren to, they hear Melissa let out a gut-wrenching scream and then uncontrollable sobs. They run in and Spencer goes to hold her, for there on the floor of the barn lies Ian with dried blood around the wound on his head. Spencer and Wren exchange horrified looks and the girls stare at the awful site before them.

The girls discuss Ian's death and the plausibility of him wanting to kill himself. The Liars are ready to move on with their lives, but Emily is stuck on the details not adding up to logical sense. She decides to investigate independently. Just as the girls are talking, Garrett Reynolds appears, and based on the police report, he lets the girls know that Ian was dead for about a week. That means that the texts sent Melissa were not from Ian.

At Hollis, Aria is perched on Ezra's desk, cluing him in on the details of discovering Ian's body. They are sharing an intimate moment, which is silently overheard by Jackie, who purposely barges into the office to break up their tête-à-tête. Ezra awkwardly introduces Aria as a former student, rather than a friend, like Aria would prefer. The introduction forces her to call him Mr. Fitz. Jackie patronizingly calls Ezra by a nickname, probably to make Aria jealous and later remarks that "Mr. Fitz" should start letting "the girl" call him by his first name.

Jason informs Aria about Mike's attempted break-in, who is grateful to Jason for not calling the cops. Jason says he is fed up with cops and is also satisfied that Mike has learned his lesson now that he has been caught. Perhaps another motive for not involving cops is his budding attraction for Aria.

Just before English class, Emily shares the news with her friends that "A" probably doctored the suicide letter. They are brought back to the scary reality of "A," having taken a respite when they thought Alison's killer was finally being put to rest.

Aria tries to question her brother about the incident at school, and it is revealed that Mike was the one who broke into Emily's garage and stole her camping equipment. He was also the one who broke into Spencer's kitchen and shoved Aria. He reveals that he has broken into other homes as well. Mike then threatens Aria that if she tells their parents, he'll tell them she had been secretly meeting her friends during their "alone time." Aria agrees to keep it quiet, so as not to foil her family's tenuous relationship further, making Mike promise never to do it again.

Spencer's mom invited the other girls to the funeral, suddenly regretting separating Spencer from her friends, in light of recent events. There, Mr. Fitz shows up. When questioned about his attendance by Ella and Byron, Ezra is at first forthcoming, admitting Aria invited him. However, he explains that it was to support all of his former students. Aria is rebuffed, especially when her father acknowledges the gesture towards the "kids."

Ian is then buried, and the girls dust their hands of Ian and the earth that buries him. . Ezra walks over to Aria, who was disappointed in the way he handled her parents earlier. They discuss how a funeral is not the best time to make their relationship public. She tells him she could really use a hug, right now, but all he can offer is to call her later.



Later, the girls are summoned to another creepy midnight outing when Emily gets a message instructing her to go the cemetery to visit a plot. The Liars join Emily, despite her being vague about why they are there, and they end up at Alison's grave. Then, the wall across from them lights up. A projector is showing the footage of Alison with Ian the night she died, the footage they thought was lost. The girls are now led to believe that Ian did not kill Alison, and, just as Emily suspected, Ian's suicide was faked. They go in search of the projector, but a black-hooded figure unseen by the girls walks away, projector in hand.

On the eve of the Rosewood Charity Fashion Show, Aria, Emily, Hanna, and Spencer are folding show programs on Emily's bed, trying to help Spencer make up for the fact that she has missed a bunch of fashion show committee meetings. They discuss their love lives. Just then, Aria gets a text from Jason to meet her. The girls assume the text is from Ezra, and Aria does not correct them. Aria leaves to meet him outside in his car. There she promises not to tell anyone what he told her at the funeral.

The next day, just as Aria and Spencer are discussing Jessica's phone call with Peter, the two get emails from her saying she wants to do lunch, a development that surprises them all.

And so, the Liars meet with Jessica for lunch, despite their awkward reservations. The subject shifts to Jason then she presents the girls with presents, four high fashion dresses. However, the girls are uneasy, as they remember Alison having picked them out and trying them on in a flashback. But, that is precisely why Jessica asks the girls to model those dresses in the fashion show; she wants them to realize Ali’s dream and pay tribute to her.

When the girls have a chance to think it over amongst themselves, Hanna is first to express the creepy factor, but out of sympathy for Jessica, they consent. They also discuss Jason now that they are alone, and only Aria does not think that Jason is being freaky. She sticks up for him saying he's coping with Ali's death the best he can.

At the Montgomery's, Aria and Ella talk. Aria asks her mother for her opinion on the possibility of someone blacking out and not remembering a whole chunk of time. Ella sagely replies that there were nights in college that she doesn't completely remember. Also, for more significant occurrences, it is possible that someone's brain is delaying the recollection of certain memories to protect the person's mental well-being, and in those situations, there is usually a trigger that can shake a memory loose... She then goes on to help her pick out photos of Alison.



everyone around, driving Spencer insane. Mona even comments on how short Aria's legs are. Later, Jason arrives backstage, not saying hi to Aria, but exchanging a meaningful look with her. Aria tries to reassure Emily that Samara is not being too touchy-feely with her friend Quinn. The fashion show starts, and the outfits do not disappoint. Then the tribute to Alison begins, with her image prominent on the runway screen and the girls walking the runway in her dresses. Suddenly, the image changes so as to make Alison look like the devil, with fire around and peeling black eyes. The screen flashes "the bitch is dead," and the music changes from sentimental to hellish. The audience and the models are shocked and dismayed. Immediately after the show, the girls try to comfort Jessica, but she doesn't return their calls, too disturbed for words.

After the show, Aria returns backstage to gather her things, but while she’s in the dressing room, Noel shows up with the disc he claims could theoretically incriminate Aria and the rest of her friends. Aria doesn't take it and stares Noel down assuming he was behind the stunt.



Before heading to school, Ella helps Aria pick out an outfit for the next night, when the guests will be coming over for the Montgomery's first dinner party since Ella's return. Ella recommends a black dress that makes Aria look "grown-up." Byron suggests inviting Ezra and a plus-one, while Aria tries to appear nonchalant. He feels that it would be nice to extend a hand to his teaching colleague who is still learning the ropes at Hollis. Byron points out that there is no conflict of interest now that Ezra is no longer Aria's teacher and that she should get used to calling him Ezra.

Aria then goes to Hollis to see Ezra; there she tries to talk him out of accepting her father's dinner invitation, but he has already accepted and feels inclined to go. He persuades her that it will finally be their opportunity to warm Ella and Byron up to the Aria and Ezra interacting in a way other than as teacher and student. It will be "a baby step," just like she wanted. Aria reluctantly agrees.



The next day at school, Emily confides in Aria that things aren't going so smoothly at Hanna's place. Aria is concerned, but then Emily lets on that it isn't so bad; she is grateful to be in Rosewood after all. Spencer then walks over and asks Emily if she has gotten an update from Garrett yet about whatever became of their Logan Reed lead. But, Emily says that she has overloaded with swim practice and hasn't had an opportunity. So, Aria and Emily ask Spencer to do it instead. They tell Spencer that she is better at persuading people. Aria would go with her if she didn't need to help her mom with dinner. She then lets Spencer know that Jason is invited, in addition to Ezra. Spencer is alarmed as she doesn't trust Jason, but Aria is worried for the reason that it will be awkward.

At the Montgomery's, dinner is getting ready as the guests arrive. A colleague of Byron and his wife are already there. Having left their newborn home with a babysitter, they are anxious all the while they are at the Montgomery's. Ezra arrives with flowers and a bottle of scotch. Aria is happy to finally call him Ezra in front of her parents. Everyone settles in the living room, then Jason arrives with flowers and hands them to Aria. Jason and Ezra meet for the first time.

Aria steps away from the party to take a call from Spencer. She learns that Toby found a broken field hockey stick on Spencer's property and Spencer is suspicious that Jason is involved and warns Aria to be alert with Jason in her house. flashes back to last summer when she sat and watched Spencer give Ali a field hockey lesson. Jason came looking for her, annoyed to be sent in the first place. He had grabbed the stick from her and then threatened to hit her. After that, Ali had tried to whack her brother with the stick, but Jason had moved quickly and mockingly warned Ali that she wouldn't get a second chance. Aria wonders if she should be concerned about Jason.

Downstairs, Jason and Ezra exchange stories about traveling and biking. When Officer Barry shows up to make the announcement of Mike's arrest, Jason and Aria exchange knowing looks, at which Ezra raises an eyebrow. Ezra, Jason, and Aria are left alone in the house after Byron and Ella and their other guests leave.

Ezra helps Aria clear the table and runs the dishwasher. He remarks how well he was doing tonight before they were interrupted. They joke about him practicing what to say in front of the mirror to impress her father. Ezra questions why Jason was invited tonight, expecting a more specific answer than he is Ali's brother, and Aria explains her mom and his mom are friends. Aria goes to the living room to offer Jason more coffee, while Ezra watches intently, wondering what the two are whispering about. Aria and Jason discuss Mike's arrest; she lets him know that he promised her that he wouldn't repeat his mistake, and he wisely lets her know that he probably meant it at the time. He also tells her that if this is his first time getting caught, he has probably raided multiple houses before.

Aria goes up to Mike's room in search of his stolen property. She finds the camping equipment stolen from Emily's garage and an expensive camera. Then, she uncovers the same pottery piece that Jenna made, with the wholes in it. For Aria, it is like seeing a ghost; sure enough, the initially on the bottom read "J.M." for Jenna Marshall. Aria believes Mike has broken into the Cavanaugh house. She heads downstairs and suddenly declares it's time for them to leave because Mike probably won't want to come home to a house full of strangers. She tells them both she'll call them tomorrow and says goodnight.



When Mike comes home, Aria accuses him of stealing from a blind girl, but she is thrown for a loop when he tells her it was stolen from Garrett Reynolds. Aria is skeptical, but Mike assures her that he vividly remembers stealing the piece from Garrett's place, not Jenna's. Aria texts Spencer not to trust Garrett.

Aria and Hanna talk with Spencer in her car about Garrett. Emily joins them, when suddenly the man of the hour parks in front of the Cavanaugh house. They wonder what he's doing there and trod closer to take a better look, when the light flicks on, revealing Jenna, wearing the same black negligee the girls had seen her trying on in the store. Garrett enters and kisses Jenna much to the surprise of the girls.

Aria just nods and picks up her finished piece and sets it on the shelf of pottery awaiting the kiln. Ezra picks up Jenna's candle holder and compliments it; Aria lets him know who its artist is. While on the subject, he asks how the two are coping with a shared class, but Aria reveals that Jenna had dropped the class after their incident. Ezra then asks why Aria hadn't confided in him about Mike, and she replies because it was embarrassing. He reassures her not to feel that way around him, because he's understanding. He invites her over for later that day, and she accepts the offer, telling him she'll call him. During their conversation up until this point, Aria's voice has been very subdued. Ezra is about to leave, but turns quickly on his heels and asks if Jason is a threat to him. Aria gives a little laugh and denies it. When he leaves, she doesn't bother to turn her head to watch him go.

Aria later joins the girls in Emily's hospital room with coffee in hand, and everyone looks on awkwardly as Aria offers the cup of Joe to her friend with a hole in her stomach, which Hanna can't seem to get over. Emily considers telling her dad the truth about the Danby letter. Later, Spencer pulls Aria into the laundry room to don candy-striper outfits. The two return to Emily's room and try to talk Emily out of fleeing Rosewood, trying to convince her that her swim career is not over. Wayne comes in, and Aria and Spencer pretend that they are new hospital volunteers, careful to haul away Emily's dinner tray as part of their "hospital duties."

Downstairs in the morgue, Aria and Spencer locate Alison's file. Aria notes the open package of cookies on the desk. Spencer translates the medical-speak for Aria. They learn the murder weapon was a curved blunt edge (like a field hockey stick?). In addition, the attack with the weapon was from behind, as the injuries were in the back of her skull. And, the force of the weapon was so strong it dented Alison's skull. Lastly, her lungs were filled with dirt, meaning she was breathing in dirt when she died, as in, she was buried alive, a fact both girls are surprised and saddened to hear.

They swipe Alison's file for the time being to show Emily what they've found. Aria then gets a text from Ezra, who she never called as promised. In the waiting room, Ezra and Aria talk. He invites Aria over, but before she responds, she gets a call from Jason. Instead of picking up, she ignores and tells Ezra that it is her dad. She tells him that she has to get home, then kisses him goodnight.

Aria and Ezra make out in bed under the covers. Suddenly, an alarm goes off, and shirtless Ezra leans over to stop the beeping. Then, the guy who rolls back to face Aria is Jason. Just before they kiss, Aria shoots up out of bed, no longer dreaming, while her alarm goes off.

At school, Aria echoes Hanna’s sentiment not to be intimidated by "A," but Emily is hardly comforted. Just then, Jason walks by in the hallway and shares a smile with Aria. Emily is concerned, but Aria brushes it off, then reveals last night's dream and her insecurities about her relationship with Ezra. Emily agrees that Jason is mysterious and wounded and it is understandable why Aria might be attracted to him, but pursuing it would be a bad idea, not to mention her current relationship with Ezra. Emily reminds her that they love each other and just need a way to connect again. Aria asks Emily to keep the conversation to herself. She agrees under one condition - Aria stays away from Jason.

Hanna then plops her tray down next to the other Pretty Little Liars - not far from where Jenna is sitting. Spencer fills the girls in on Jenna's potential eye surgery. The girls are scared of the implications, but Aria suggests Jenna getting her sight back could be a good thing. It could end the feud they have going on. Spencer disagrees.

Aria saunters into Ezra’s office, trying to fix her relationship and wash away her insecurities. She removes some layers until her bra and black lace top is revealed. She props a chair in front of the door, then starts to kiss Ezra passionately. He mumbles something about having class in fifteen minutes, so Aria decides to make the best of the time they have. She wraps her legs around him, and Ezra surrenders; they move to the couch.

Later, while waiting for Ezra to return to his office, Emily calls Aria to ask her advice about "A’s" blackmails. Aria suggests Emily "bluff" since she is playing cards. Ezra walks in to find Aria with snacks and sodas from the vending machine, a veritable feast! Sensing something may be up, Ezra asks if anything is going on and Aria says she is just happy and wants to share the feeling.











At the school fair, Aria happily spots Ezra setting up a table for Hollis, but before she can approach him, Jackie does. After Jackie puts some Hollis lanyards around Ezra's neck, Aria decides against approaching the touchy-feely ex-couple.





At home in her room, Aria inspects the contents of Ali's secret box, silently agreeing with Jason that the objects are girly and insignificant. There are some costume jewelry pieces, some trinkets, and a tattered doll. Ella stops by Aria's room to talk. She lets Aria know that she is arranging for Mike to see a therapist and enlists Aria's help in speaking to Mike and convincing her brother that she had enjoyed the experience and that it won't make him uncool. Before she leaves, she honestly asks Aria if there is something to the rumors about Mr. Fitz and a student. Frozen, Aria feels her mother out slowly. Ella reveals that she had always dismissed the rumors, but now that she saw Spencer and him together, she is no longer sure. Aria convincingly assures her mother that the two have nothing to do with each other, but is interested to see how her mother feels about Mr. Fitz dating a student in general, since there is barely any age difference. Ella does not mince words, letting Aria know that it would be an abuse of his position and a disappointment. She heads for the door, then turns, and on second thought, tells Aria that it would be worse: a betrayal.

Later, at Hanna's house, Spencer apprehensively opens the door for Aria. The two girls start speaking over each other; Spencer defending her decision to tell Fitz about Jason, Aria trying to explain the whole situation. They slow down and Aria forgives Spencer, and Spencer explains how worried she was about Aria's welfare. Aria admits Spencer's bold move actually brought out the best in Ezra. She also mentions that her mother thinks Spencer is the one Ezra is hooking up with, much to Spencer's shock.

After Hanna hears Emily leave, the Liars gather in Hanna's room and discuss where Emily could have gone. Looking through Emily's phone, Spencer finds a picture of Ezra and Aria kissing sent by "A," along with the caption "Clue Ella in, and I'll let you out." Aria is momentarily concerned the photo was forwarded to Ella, but her friends assure her Emily wouldn't betray her like that, no matter what "A" says.

Aria and the girls wait for Emily at Dr. Sullivan's office. Emily arrives, surprised to see them. As the girls talk about how they are being threatened, Dr. Sullivan can't help but ask who is threatening them. The Liars decide to tell her about "A." Emily tells Dr. Sullivan that the threats began even before Alison’s funeral. At first they thought it was Alison, but then they found her body. They also mention that "A" is an expert at making other people look guilty. They have clues about who he/she/they might be, but they’ve been wrong before. Dr. Sullivan, in turn, is astounded that the girls have not told anybody else about "A" and that she is only person they have ever told.

At school, the Liars debate whether or not they should have mentioned Jenna in their talk with Dr. Sullivan. Hanna then changes the subject to Kate. Aria finds it weird that Hanna is being so nice to her mean stepsister, but Hanna insists she's doing it for her dad. The topic shifts back to Jenna when the Liars see her talking on the phone. Emily thinks it was Jenna who sent the Ezria picture. Just then, Hanna's grandma comes over and says hello to the girls.

Aria walks in on her parents discussing Mike, and notes that her father is late for his own class. While Byron is at Hollis Aria goes into Mike's room to tell him to go downstairs. Mike gets annoyed and tries to shoo her away, but she refuses to leave, trying to reason with Mike to open up to his family. Then Ella comes in to insist that Mike turn off his computer and come to dinner. She firmly shuts the computer, but Mike gets violent, tries to get the computer back, and leaves his mother with a bruise from the skirmish before angrily walking away. Ella insists that Aria keep the shocking incident a secret from her father.

In a school assembly, Dr. Sullivan makes a speech that addresses technology’s role in school bullying. The girls wear uncomfortable expressions, as Dr. Sullivan encourages the students being bullied to speak out if they don't feel safe. Right after the assembly, the girls congregate outside the building, discussing their feelings of vulnerability. Hanna questions whether confiding in Dr. Sullivan was a good idea in the first place. Just then, Jenna walks over and reminds the girls that Alison could have benefited from such an assembly.

Byron returns home from Hollis to find Aria at the table doing her homework. Ella comes in and downplays her injury, while Byron tells Aria to go easy on her brother. Later, Mike sits alone in his room again. Aria passes by and sees that her brother is teary-eyed. She reaches out to him, and he confesses to being worried about his mother and later goes downstairs to face the family, outwardly apologetic for the first time in a while. She hugs her confused brother close.

Later on, Aria informs her parents that Mike's break-in had not been an isolated incident. Having revealed her one secret, she looks pointedly at her mother, expecting her to do the same, reminding her how secrets threatened to split their family up once before. Just then, Mike descends the stairs to join the rest of his family, his guard down, ready to talk openly for the first time in a while.

Spencer, Hanna and Aria are seated in an isolated investigation room. The girls are numb and silent. Their nice dresses are covered in dirt stains, and their whole bodies are smudged with dirt.

Twelve hours earlier, Aria and the other Liars ring Dr. Sullivan's doorbell. Dr. Sullivan isn’t home and hasn’t picked up the latest copies of The Rosewood Observer from off her stoop. Her voicemail says she’s been called out of town on a family emergency. Spencer reminds them that the last time somebody thought she knew who "A" was, she got hit by a car. They also agree not to go the police.

Aria shows up to Ezra's office with two cups of coffee, but does not enter because Jackie has beaten her to it. She overhears Jackie make an advance and Ezra tell her he is seeing someone and not interested. She leaves when her phone buzzes - a text from A threatening Dr. Sullivan's life.

Aria meets the girls at Spencer's house where a box waits for them, courtesy of A. Inside are 3 dolls representing Aria, Spencer, and Hanna. The doll instructs Aria to "get rid of Jackie" using a copy of her paper and the paper she plagiarized it from. She doesn't want to use this information against Jackie because she is afraid Ezra will never forgive her, but ultimately decides she has no choice.

At the police station, Aria asks to make her phone call. She appears to call Ezra, crying, "I made a terrible mistake and I need you."

6 hours earlier, she goes to Jackie's office and shows her what she has on her, saying, "I think you should leave Hollis." While getting ready for Tom and Isabel's wedding, Aria talks to her mom, who apologizes for asking her to lie in the last episode. Ella leaves to take a bath, then the doorbell rings. Aria answers it and it is Jackie there to threaten to make Aria and Ezra's relationship public if she doesn't break up with him. Aria says, "you know that would hurt him much more than me." Jackie says she doesn't want to hurt him, but will if she has to.

Aria attends the wedding then leaves with Spencer and Hanna in search of Emily. They find Emily passed out near a barn, and a shovel with coordinates to a location in the woods. They find the location and furiously begin digging where they think Dr. Sullivan is buried alive, but Rosewood cops descend and arrest them on suspicion of murder.

The girls sit in the interrogation room talking to Spencer's mom, an attorney. Detective Wilden bursts into the room with a shovel informing them that they are going down for murder since they were found with the weapon confirmed to have been used in Alison's death. They are all shocked.

In October 2008, the girls walk down a street in their neighborhood discussing their Halloween costumes and the upcoming school election. Noel drives up in a convertible with his jock friends to greet the Liars and especially Alison. Spying Aria, he says "come prepared to be scared," exciting her with the knowledge that they are invited to Noel's bash. As Noel drives away, Alison mocks the other Liars for being so excited to attend the party.

They continue walking and pass a run-down abandoned house. A figure is seen in one of the upstairs windows, and Emily calls it out, frightening the other girls. Aria comments that she gets a bad feeling from this place, feeling as if something bad had happened there. Spencer and Alison are not worried.

Aria visits her father's office at Hollis College, bumping into Ezra on the way. She is about to leave a note for her father, when she sees Meredith lying barefoot on the couch of her father's office, lazily reading a book. Aria is not very suspicious, though she finds the woman's behavior odd. When Byron returns to his office, he expresses his surprise at seeing Meredith there, but acts coolly. Aria attributes Meredith's presence in his office to her father being so cool in the eyes of his students.

At lunch the next day, Hanna overhears Ben telling his friends he had sex with Emily. Aria is ready to march over to his table and set him straight, but Emily pulls her back to her seat and tells them all it's true. Later, Aria and Alison go out for frozen yogurt. While they are walking, Mona sees them and calls out to join them. Aria looks inclined to stop, but Alison propels Aria forward in attempt to lose Mona. They run until they turn a corner past some bushes, then stop in their tracks when they see Byron and Meredith making out in his car. Byron is all smiles until he spots his daughter and her crestfallen face.

That night, Aria returns home to her room as Byron sits looking at an old family album. He lets Aria know that he had tried to contact her all day (trying to prevent Ella from finding out the truth). Ella and Mike are at dinner. (Clearly, Byron had tried to keep Aria away from them until he had a chance to talk to her.) Byron announces that Meredith is dropping his class, implying that their relationship is ending. He then asks Aria to lie about it to her mother, because it’s over now, and telling her would make it worse. “I don’t think I can ever forgive you,” Aria squeaks. When Byron tries to embrace, Aria she turns roughly away from him. In turn, Byron has the decency to tell Aria that he respects whatever decision she ultimately make. Aria sits down to cry, and Byron stands in the doorway, crying silent tears himself.

The next day at school, the girls stand in the hall talking. Alison brings up Spencer's upcoming election and then changes the subject, piteously asking Aria how her mother is. Aria shoots daggers at Alison and is about to respond when Lucas bumps into Alison, dumping his drink on her. Alison begins mercilessly teasing him as the girls all walk away.

That night, the girls get dressed in Spencer’s bedroom. Hanna dons her Britney costume, Spencer a corset dress, Alison, Lady Gaga and Emily is dressed as a Native American. Aria walks in and announces that she doesn’t feel like going. The girls accept Aria's decision, sans explanation, but Alison doesn't. Suddenly, Spencer spots a masked individual in the yard through the window and the girls all squeal with worry. The doorbell rings, leaving Alison and Aria alone together. Alison criticizes Aria for being such a downer and not going to the party after she supposedly worked so hard to score her an invitation. Aria gives a meek defense.

Aria attends the party dressed as a witch. She and Hanna go off, following the sign in the woods that reads "Killer Drinks This Way." They get a text that reads "I’m in trouble, come alone" from Ali, directing them to the scary house's address.

The girls check out the creepy house, noting the antique dolls and weird dollhouse. They find Ali in a locked room. She tells them that the person who brought her there is trying to kill her. No one can get a signal on their phones to dial 911, so Ali goes into the hall alone, then screams. The girls are locked in. They peer through the keyhole to see her fight with the masked abductor and a knife.

The girls climb out the window and head back into the house, finding Ali in a rocking chair brandishing a knife covered in what is revealed to be ketchup. Ali explains the whole thing was a hoax and Noel was her accomplice. They all look really annoyed and betrayed by Alison's crying wolf, but are silent.

The girls return to the party and note how it seems to be full of college kids now. Noel turns up to apologize for getting stuck at the party, which comes as a shock to all of them. They are left wondering who was the person wearing the mask.

One month after their arrest, the girls finish up their community service picking up trash in Rosewood Community Park. Other girls also bagging trash mock them. Aria shouts at Emily and Spencer for fighting, saying she's had enough. When Spencer and Emily start a shoving match, Aria tries to help break it up.

Aria walks down Main Street with her brother Mike. She reassures him that no one is looking at him funny and that she's happy he likes his new therapist and that the meds he is on are working. They bump into Ezra outside the bike shop. Things are clearly awkward as they talk about not having seen each other lately. She offers to return the book of poetry he loaned her, but he says there is no need. Aria asks Mike to throw out her empty coffee cup in order to get a moment alone with Ezra. She asks how he's been and he replies numb since she won't let him see her. Their conversation is cut short when Mike returns and they all exchange awkward goodbyes.

At the end of English class, Aria watches another fight almost break out between Spencer and Emily. Aria walks down the hall with Hanna recounting the awkward morning with Ezra and wishing she could have explained why she had to break up with him. Hanna reminds her she had no choice. Emily passes by and they both give her the cold shoulder. It appears Hanna and Aria are closer than ever while Emily is being freezed out. That night, all 4 girls meet at the greenhouse. Emily shows them the text she got from "A" earlier. It becomes clear that all the fighting and sniping earlier had been for show. They discuss the details of their plan to trap "A."

Aria stops at Hollis to return the book she mentioned earlier. She puts the book down on Ezra's desk, with a letter folded inside, then thinks better of it and removes the letter. Jackie sneaks up behind her and snatches the letter out of her hand reminding Aria about the deal they made. Aria ensures her she broke up with Ezra and was simply returning a book. Ezra walks in on them arguing, stunned.

After Jackie leaves, he finally learns from Aria why she broke up with him, remarking how dangerous their relationship had been. Jackie had been blackmailing her and after all the trouble with the cops, Aria didn't want to drag Ezra into it. Ezra regrets not telling her mother the truth in the police station. Aria is about to leave, resigned to the futility of the situation when Ezra asks if she still trusts him. She answers yes and he informs her that there is something important they have to do that afternoon.

Aria runs into the school apologizing to Spencer for being late due to complications. She made it just in the nick of time to put their plan into action. Emily exits the gym after the swim meet, spots the girls, and demands the box Jason gave Aria for all to hear. She declares she knows where Spencer hid the box and storms off. Aria and the others feign annoyance.

Later, standing before Byron and Ella in their living room, Ezra and Aria finally come clean about their relationship, much to her parents' shock and anger. Ezra does most of the talking, explaining he's in love with Aria and admits it started before she was his student and that it continued while she was his student. Aria stands up and assures them it's true, slipping her hand into Ezra's. Ella and Byron are both in disbelief. Ella tries to send Mike and Aria upstairs, but Aria refuses. Before Byron can hit Ezra, Mike walks up and does it first. After a stunned silence, Aria advises Ezra to leave.

After he leaves and things have cooled down a bit, Aria approaches her parents and asks them not to make a decision tonight, to consider for a moment that their relationship is real. They don't seem to accept this possibility. Ella can barely look at her. They send her back upstairs.

On the phone, Spencer is surprised to hear Aria came clean about Ezra to her parents and alarmed to learn she was sent to her room and might not make it to the greenhouse on time. Mike catches her trying to sneak out of the house, mistakenly assuming it is to see Mr. Fitz. He explains he hit him to prevent Byron from doing it first, then offers her an alternative exit from the house - out his bedroom window. Aria realizes this is how he has been sneaking out all along.

She makes it to the greenhouse with Spencer in time to see Emily being attacked by "A." They scare "A" off Emily, then corner the hooded figure, but "A" throws a heavy object into the air, shattering the glass above them, and uses the moment of confusion to escape. Aria leads the girls chase after "A," who runs directly into the path of Hanna's car, just arriving on the scene. "A" stumbles, but continues, running through the woods, losing the girls. Frustrated, they return to greenhouse and discover "A"s phone on the ground under Hanna's front headlight. They all stare at it thinking the same thing - they may have actually found hard evidence to expose the identity of "A."

They go back into the greenhouse to retrieve the box and formulate a plan of what to do next. Aria apologizes for being late; she dropped a pretty big bomb at home earlier. She helps pick glass out of Emily's hair, then A's phone rings. Spencer hands it to Aria, who hands it to Emily, who hands it off to Hanna. Glass falls from the ceiling and the girls run before anyone can answer it.

Caleb hooks the phone up to his computer to download its contents. Before the download is complete, Aria notices an error message. The owner shut down the phone remotely.

Aria leaves her room in the morning before school. Byron walks by and tells her to change her clothes because she is dressed inappropriately. Incredulous, Aria asks since when she has had a dress code. Before an argument can break out, Ella steps in. She tells Aria to pick her battles while choosing new clothes for her to wear. Aria had hoped perhaps Ella would be more accepting of her relationship with Ezra, but Ella is in agreement with Byron and forbids Aria from seeing, and even saying goodbye to, Ezra. Aria asks her mom if she likes him, in an effort to get her to see the situation from a different perspective. She admits to having liked Ezra prior to his confession yesterday.

Emily shows Spencer and Aria the transcript she swiped from the crisis center. Spencer thinks this is a big breakthrough and that they all should volunteer there in hopes that this person will call again. Aria declines, citing her lockdown status at home, and Hanna is too busy planning Caleb's party. Caleb beckons them into a nearby classroom to show them what he recovered from the mystery phone. The girls pretend like the photo of four porcelain dolls means nothing to them. The thank Caleb for his help and exit.

Aria calls Ezra again and this time he picks up. She says she just needed to hear his voice. He says he needed to hear hers as well, but she can't call him again. Aria tears up when he hangs up on her.

Aria and her parents walk toward a restaurant in town for dinner, but stop short when they see Ezra through the window dining alone. Byron insists they go somewhere else and bickers with Ella about their earlier conversation. Aria and Ezra stare longingly at each other before she's forced to walk away. During their search for a new restaurant, they bump into an old colleague of Byron's and his son, Holden. He and Aria go way back recalling an incident involving training wheels. Their parents make plans for them to have dinner one day soon so Holden and Aria can catch up.

The girls try to comfort Hanna after her ordeal at the lake. Aria brings her an aspirin. Hanna takes it with a sip of lakewater from her water bottle, courtesy of "A," who sends a text moments later.

Spencer finds unopened cell phones and a receipt in the attic of her lakehouse, proof that A has been hiding out there. Spencer wants to go to Philadelphia that afternoon to check out the address listed on the receipt. Aria offers to go with so she doesn't have to go alone.

At school, Aria confesses to Spencer that her mom thinks she made a date with Holden when she really called Ezra. Spencer says she thought Holden was still in Europe, and Aria then reveals that her dad threatened to turn Ezra into the police. Just at this moment, Holden walks up and asks Aria if she wants to go out. At first she says no, stating that she's grounded. He says he talked to her parents, who agreed. Spencer is surprised by Holden's good manners. Aria eventually agrees to go out with him, stating she will find something fun for them to do.

Spencer meets up with Aria outside school as she is buying tickets for a play for her date with Holden, knowing Ezra had made plans to go to this play and hoping fate is on her side. Spencer attempts to pull up the train schedule on her phone, but is experiencing technical difficulties. Aria sees that the next train leaves in 20 minutes, and suggests that they get going.

Spencer and Aria walk down a street in Philly, looking for the place on the receipt, Smitty's, and find it just to be a newsstand. They figure that must be the place since the receipt is just for gum and magazines, but don't see anything out of the ordinary. Aria notes how close they are to Melissa's apartment, then they decide it's a bust. Spencer offers to take Aria to coffee, but Aria says she has to meet Holden at 7:30. Aria asks if she is doing the right thing by using Holden, and Spencer says she is; she's taking a chance and being bold and romantic (for Ezra). Reassured, Aria leaves Spencer in the city.

Emily asks Aria for her fake ID for Maya to use. Aria hands it over even though she and Maya don't look alike. Neither of them are worried since the club is in New Jersey. Hanna locks all the windows and doors, worried that Lucas is out there, and Caleb is too. Aria says she can cancel her date with Holden, but Hanna insists she will be fine at home. Aria leaves and Emily goes to go get changed for her date with Maya.

Aria meets Holden outside the theatre. Aria convinced her mom to drop her off at the corner. Holden asks Aria what she did to bring on the "parental wrath." She dodges the question, stating it's a long story. Holden brings her a gift of gummy bears, remembering that she used to smuggle them in to their old play dates when his mom was in her no-sugar phase. When she picks up her tickets, she asks if there are two for Fitz, as well. She then sees Ezra getting out of a cab, and begins walking towards him, thrilled he showed up. Their moment is interrupted by Holden and Mrs. Welch, who mentions that she is here with a friend who had an extra ticket. Ezra walks past them to the ticket booth.

After the play, Mrs. Welch, Holden, and Aria regroup. Mrs. Welch mentions that Ezra had to leave about 10 minutes into the play, claiming that he felt sick. Aria is noticeably disappointed.

Outside the theatre, after Mrs. Welch has gone, Holden offers to take Aria for coffee. Aria says sure, casually. He says that maybe she went out with the wrong person tonight. He explains how he picked up on her relationship with Mr. Fitz. He promises to keep it a secret, since he has stuff he wants to hide from his parents too and proposes this might be an opportunity for both of them.

The girls ponder Hanna's new information over unopened Chinese food. Spencer shows them the sign-in book from the rehab center. They learn that Garrett and Jenna could both have been in Rosewood at the time of Alison's murder. They open the food, and, to their horror, find it was replaced with live earthworms. "A" sends a text about this being what live bait looks like.

The girls watch the video Caleb recovered from "A's" phone. They see Ian, Garrett, and Jenna in Ali's bedroom the night she disappeared. Ian says he tried to get some videos back from Alison, but she wouldn't hand them over. They search her bedroom. The girls are left wondering if those missing videos are what got Ali killed.

At school, Aria worries she will never see Ezra again. Spencer tries to reassure her. The girls speculate why Holden is willing to go on fake dates with Aria to uphold her alibi. The others agree he must be gay, but Aria doesn't buy it. She goes over to his table to try and suss out the situation. He tells her he already owes her one without letting on why. On her way out of the courtyard, she notices Holden check out a pretty girl who walks by, thus doubting her friends' assessment again.

In Aria's bedroom, the girls look at the item's in the box Jason gave Aria. The secret compartment inside Alison's doll pops open while Hanna holds the doll. They find a series of threatening notes. The one about a pumpkin catches their attention. The girls flash back to walking home the night of Noel's Halloween party. The jack-o-lanterns on her porch are destroyed; a carving knife stabs through a note into one of the pumpkins. Alison laughs it off as the work of "Jason's beer buddies." She apologizes for the prank she pulled earlier, then asks the girls to stay over. In the present day, they realize the note that Alison got actually said "next time it'll be your face." And it was signed by "A!"

Aria leaves Ezra a voicemail from Emily's phone. She tells him she doesn't want their relationship to be over, but if it is, they should talk about it in person. If there is any chance of staying together, he will meet her under a clock in Philadelphia at 8 o'clock.

At school, after Toby's accident, Aria, Hanna and Emily wonder if Jenna would be involved in something that hurt her own brother. They also figure that Jenna must have found a replacement for Garrett.

Ella asks Aria why she has to go to Philadelphia for her date with Holden. Aria says Holden picked the restaurant. Ella recognizes it as a place they stopped at on the way back from a family vacation then insists that she drive them to the date.

Ella drops off Aria and Holden outside Machelli's. He asks if she feels bad about lying to her parents. She asks him why he is willing to help her out the way he is. Holden picks up on the subtext and says he's not gay. He leaves her without telling her where is spending the evening. Aria goes to wait for Ezra on a nearby bench.

Aria waits patiently on a bench in the rain, watching every car that passes until Ezra finally arrives. He calls her name and they kiss in the middle of the street, stopping traffic. Inside his car, they both agree what they are doing is dangerous. He wants her to be safe and happy and make sure that being together is what she wants. She answers him with a kiss. They realize what they are doing is crazy try to figure out how they can make it work without meeting on sidewalks in the rain for the rest of their lives. Aria tells him she has a plan.

Ella pulls up outside the restaurant, but Holden isn't back yet. Ella questions Aria, who is momentarily speechless, until Holden shows up with ice cream, explaining his absence. He offers some to Ella then exchanges a relieved look with Aria.

The next morning, Spencer, Emily and Aria watch the rest of the video. Garrett opens the wooden box to find something "weird." Then they hear someone coming up the stairs, presumably Alison. Ian tells Garrett they are all going down and pulls out the camera. Garrett and Ian struggle and the camera falls. The tape stops there, and Emily says she's not sure she want Caleb to recover the rest. The girls hear a car pull up outside and look out the window to see Toby's truck parked in the front yard. They open the door to find the keys in the ignition and a note for Spencer on the dash. She reads the note and tells the other girls "he's gone."

In the Hastings' kitchen, the girls, minus Hanna, gather round Caleb's laptop as Caleb hacks further into the files from "A's" phone. After one too many requests, Caleb asks them to back up. One by one, each of them gets a call from Hanna, which they all decline. Eventually, Spencer answers her phone and says she is with her family to prevent Hanna from coming over. However, Emily accidentally breaks a glass, and Aria shouts out her name in surprise. Hanna is hurt, thinking the girls are mad at her, but doesn't force the subject. Caleb manages to get a clear picture of the things in Alison's box, which includes a fake ID of Alison with dark brown hair.

Aria and Spencer sit alone in Spencer's kitchen, and Spencer asks Aria to sleep over, as they both need the company, but Aria already made plans with Holden. Spencer is surprised as Aria had only been hanging out with him in order to spend time with Ezra, and as far as Spencer knows, Ezra never showed up to meet her and their relationship is over. Aria notes that Toby's truck has gone, and Spencer says she took it back to Toby's house, and begins crying reminiscing about him. Aria comforts her and Spencer says she doesn't know how Aria is holding it together. Spencer asks if it is her fault they are lying to Hanna about Caleb, but Aria assures her that there are certain situations in which someone must lie to their friends, no matter how much they hate it.

Later that night, Ezra and Aria drive to an unknown location in Ezra's car and discuss their situation. Aria hates having to lie to her friends. He tells her she doesn't have to, but she recalls being "burned before." The good news is her mom seems to be slowly coming round to the idea of them dating. The bad news is her dad will probably never come around. They get closer when Aria mentions the need to generate some heat.

Aria and Holden are picked up by Byron, who leaves the car for a minute to use the ATM. Aria apologizes for being late, as she and Ezra got lost when trying to take a shortcut. They quickly coordinate their stories about what they ate that night, and Aria realizes that it's the third time they have gone out this week and wonders what people will think. Holden says that they should keep them guessing.

At school the next day, Hanna asks the girls what they did the previous night, and they lie that they were studying. They remember that it is Kate's first day at Rosewood High, and Hanna is worried and keeps looking around for her. Kate approaches them, looking a little nervous and awkwardly makes conversation with the girls, until Hanna shows her to their next class.

A little later, they watch Noel from across the way and wonder if he is Jenna's replacement for Garrett. Hanna returns and asks them if they know anything about Caleb still investigating the files from "A's" phone. Aria and Emily brush it off and quickly leave. They all eat lunch with Kate the next day.

In the locker room, the girls change for gym class. Hanna is still distressed about the text she received from "A" earlier, and stuffs her phone into her bag before leaving with Aria.

That evening, Aria and Holden enter an arcade, where Aria reveals that her plans got canceled and she didn't want to ruin Holden's night, so she planned to hang around until they get picked up. Holden reveals his plans got canceled as well, and didn't want to ruin Aria's night. Instead of going home, they decide to spent the night together. Holden orders a pizza, remembering Aria's favorite topping, and challenges her to a game of air hockey. They have a lot of fun playing. Holden asks about Ezra, but Aria says she doesn't want to talk about him then challenges him to another game.

Aria and Holden are getting ready to leave, when someone accidentally knocks Holden into the table. Aria gets a glimpse of a nasty-looking bruise on Holden's stomach, but Holden says it's nothing to worry about.

At school the next day, Emily, Spencer and Aria come up to Hanna in the hall, shocked that she would do such a thing, asking for an explanation. Hanna is unaware of what she did, and Emily shows Hanna her phone, which displays a picture of Kate naked in the girls locker room. Hanna is horrified and insists she didn't send it to them, but Aria says she didn't just send it to them, she sent it to her entire contact list. As they look around, everybody stares at Hanna, disgusted by what she has done. The girls don't need to guess who the real culprit is.

In Spencer's living room, Spencer, Aria and Emily stare at the red raincoat, which was what Spencer picked up using Alison's, a.k.a. "Vivian's," claim ticket. Aria is surprised Ali would ever have worn it, and begins to search the pockets. Spencer asks where Hanna is, and Aria and Emily explain that she is at a meeting at the school about the photo of Kate. Aria finds a crumpled note in one of the pockets, on which a phone number is written. Aria and Spencer want to call it, but Emily is hesitant. Aria says it might give them answers, and Spencer accuses Emily of being scared, which she fiercely denies. To prove this, Emily calls the number, which goes to a computerised voicemail. Aria takes the phone and introduces herself as a friend of Vivian's and asks that they call her back.

At school, the girls stand by Hanna's locker, discussing the situation "A" got Hanna into and hoping it will blow over.

Aria, Spencer and Emily walk down the hallway, and Aria says that they can at least say it could have been a lot worse. Emily explains that Tamborelli won't let her back on the team because he doesn't want her to tarnish the team's image as he has a major sponsor on the hook. Aria and Spencer are outraged, and Emily asks how long they'll have to pay for picking up the shovel.

In the music room, Aria finds Holden setting up for Truth Up Day. He asks for Aria's help, and she asks about his bruise. Holden says it is fine and he and Aria pin up a paper banner on the wall. Aria asks why Holden gets to know what she does on their 'dates', but she doesn't get to know what he does. Holden answers because that was their arrangement. When he goes to get some thumb tacks, and someone knocks his book bag over. Aria notices a baggie of pills roll out, which Holden quickly stuffs back inside.

At Rosewood High, the students have gathered for Truth Up Day. Spencer informs Emily, Aria and Hanna that Tamborelli is confiscating any phones that aren't switched off. She asks Emily if she has any messages from the number they called, but there are none.

Ella arrives and tells everyone to line up and sign in. Holden joins Aria and tries to strike up a conversation, but Aria is not interested in talking. He asks if it has anything to do with the pills she saw in his bag and if she told her parents, but Aria assures him she didn't, although she is concerned about the pills. She asks if he is hooked on something or dealing drugs, and he says he isn't, and she is way off. Before he can elaborate, Holden is called away by Tamborelli who asks him to start a new line.

Aria and Caleb arrive in the music room to find Jenna playing the piano. They voice their surprise that Jenna is in their group, before Jenna turns to face them. They enter and Aria is surprised to see Jason as well. Aria gets up to leave, unable to deal with it all, but Caleb tells her that she doesn't actually have a choice, and besides, if everyone is spilling their guts today, they might have a lot of interesting things to say. Aria's phone rings, and she apologizes before turning it off. It's a text from "A." Aria nervously glances around, and sees Jason with his back to her, Jenna with her hands in her bag, and several others texting.

Everyone is given a pen and paper and told that whatever they write is anonymous. Veronica offers Jenna help, but Jenna says she doesn't need it, nor does she trust anyone there. She goes on to say how she has been mistreated and mentions being "cornered and slapped." Caleb asks Aria if she is referring to Hanna, then intervenes against Aria's wishes, challenging Jenna to tell the whole truth.

At Aria's locker, Aria and Emily discuss what happened with Jenna and Caleb. They wonder where Hanna is, and Emily says that the person still hasn't called back yet. They go into the girls bathroom and Aria calls the number again, planning to leave another voicemail, this time pretending to be Ali. She is caught off guard when a woman answers and asks how Aria got the number. No one there knows anyone called Vivian and tells her not to call back again. Emily considers that perhaps it was just a random number in a pocket, when she is called to the VP's office over the PA system.

In the hall, Holden approaches Aria and asks if they are still going out on Saturday, as he was kinda counting on it. Aria says she is uncomfortable with covering for whatever he is doing, and that she can't handle it if he is hurting himself. Holden asks if the deal is off, as they both need each other. Aria says she is sorry, the deal is off.

In the hall, Aria, Hanna and Emily are sitting together eating dinner, when they notice Kate nearby. Aria suggests they move somewhere else, but Hanna says she is fine. As Kate pulls off her sweater, Hanna notices a birthmark on Kate's waist. Realizing something, she looks at the picture of Kate on Emily's phone and sees that the birthmark isn't in the photo, which could mean it was Photoshopped. Aria asks why "A" would go through so much trouble to do that and improve Kate's image when they were trying to embarrass her, and Hanna says that maybe "A" didn't send the text.

Hanna confronts Kate in the girls' room and gets her to confess to Photoshopping and sending that photo of herself. Aria and Emily hide in the stalls and step out to reveal Aria recorded the whole thing on her phone. Aria, Emily and Hanna exit the bathroom, and Aria notes how genius Kate's plan was. Hanna asks them to get Caleb to keep out of their business with "A." Hanna goes to find Ashley, while Aria looks for Caleb.

She checks the music room and finds Jenna and Noel in there looking at the messages written on the wall. She asks if they've seen Caleb. They laugh and say he better not come back there. She leaves quickly, rushing past Holden in the hall.

Aria goes to the roof and props the door open with bricks, calling out for Caleb. The door slams shut, trapping her. She bangs on the door, calling out for help, when a shadowy figure moves behind her. She turns around and starts to climb up a fire ladder, but is grabbed by Noel, who demands to know where Caleb is. Aria screams for him to let go, when Holden appears and kicks Noel in the chest. As Holden and Aria leave, Noel claims that he wasn't attacking her. Shaken, but unharmed, Aria asks how Holden learned to kick someone like he just did, and tells him not to lie. Holden doesn't reply, and Aria asks if that is what he has been doing on their dates. Holden tells her they need to leave.

Later that night, everyone is asleep in the assembly hall, besides Spencer. Emily wakes up and checks her phone, finding six missed calls from the number Aria called. She wakes Hanna and Aria, and calls the person again. This time Emily speaks. A man answers and asks if she is Vivian's friend and what she wants. Emily says she has a few questions, and the man says he has some of his own, but he doesn't want to talk over the phone and asks her to meet him. Emily looks at the others and agrees.

At Rosewood High, everyone is celebrating the swim team's victory. Aria and Spencer wait for Emily to arrive, and Aria asks a visibly tense Spencer if she's sure she wants to meet with the man they spoke to on the phone last week. Spencer says they have to go and find out what he knows about Alison, and insists she is fine. Aria notes how Spencer has been staying at her house for a week and asks what's wrong, but Spencer says she just can't deal with her family right now. Aria offers to help, but before Spencer can explain, Emily and the rest of the Sharks enter with a trophy, and everyone cheers for them.

They all congratulate Emily. The cheerful mood vanishes when Garrett and another cop enter the school and confiscate Caleb's computer. Hanna explains the situation to the other girls when they all receive a text from "A."

At Aria's locker, Aria tells Holden she can't cover for him unless she knows what he is doing on their 'dates'. Holden confesses he is doing martial arts. His parents don't like it and forbid him from competing, and the pills she saw are pain pills which he doesn't even use. Holden assures Aria that it's not as sketchy as she imagines, and shows her that his bruise has completely healed. Aria is still reluctant, but Holden says there is a big tournament coming up and tomorrow night is the qualifying match which he can't miss. He begs her as it is really important to him, and after thinking about it, Aria agrees.

Later on, Aria sits in a booth at a diner with Ali's copy of Lolita! on the table in front of her, and Hanna, Emily and Spencer in the booth behind her. A man comes over and taps the book, noting that Aria is a friend of Vivian's. He sits down and asks Aria how much Vivian owed her, which Aria is shocked to hear. The man says that Vivian cost him his job. They discuss how Vivian agreed to pay him to find out who was sending her friend Alison threatening texts. Aria asks what he knows about the person sending the texts, but the man says he's not talking without the money Vivian owes him. Aria reaches for her purse and asks how much, to which he says $2000 and the price could go up. He writes down his number and as he gets up to leave, Aria asks who she should ask for when she calls, and he tells her to ask for Jonah.

After he leaves, the four discuss this new information, and how if he finds out Ali is dead, there won't be enough money in the world to make him talk. They need to find out what Jonah knows, but they don't have the money. Aria asks Spencer, but her bank account has been on lockdown since she was arrested.

Outside, Aria is on the phone with Ezra, discussing Ezra's interview for the job in New Orleans tomorrow. Aria says it's a huge opportunity for him, but Ezra says that isn't the problem, it's what Byron will think if he doesn't take it. Aria says they need to discuss it in person, and Ezra suggests a French Vegan (Chez Mirabelle Vegan Bistro) restaurant which just opened up. Aria jokes that Ezra must really like her if he's taking her to a French restaurant. Ezra corrects her, saying he must really love her.

In Aria's room, Aria is getting dressed for her date with Ezra when Byron comes in and says that he was told Spencer just left. Aria says that she went to Emily's victory party. He asks where Aria and Holden are going tonight, and Aria says they're going to an arcade which has vintage games. He asks when Aria is leaving, to which Aria says "now-ish", and she will be home at eleven. A still skeptical Byron asks if they are meeting anyone else, but Aria says no. Before Byron can press the issue further, Ella appears in the doorway and asks if Byron is holding Aria up. Byron smiles and says no.

When he leaves, Ella tells Aria that she thinks she and Holden should hang out closer to home, but Aria says there is more to do in the city. Ella says that from the way Holden's mom talks, she's surprised that she's even okay with it. Aria says the city is only an hour away, but Ella says his parents are worried something will happen to him. Confused, Aria asks what could happen, and Ella says that Holden has a heart condition. Aria pretends she already knew.

When Holden and Aria have been dropped off by Ella, Holden tells Aria that there was some weird energy in the car, and asks if Ella is starting to wonder. Aria tells him she is still clueless. As they part ways, Aria asks if the tournament is dangerous, and Holden says that he has a rematch against the guy who have him the bruise, and it's gonna be epic. As he heads off, Aria gazes after him.

She decides to follow him to the martial arts tournament. It is professional, like he promised, but Aria is still unsure. She finds Holden, who is surprised to see Aria there. Aria asks what is wrong with his heart, and demands to know if he has a death wish. Holden asks her to keep her voice down and tells her that it doesn't matter if he is at home watching TV or practicing martial arts, his aneurysm could burst at any moment, and he has to live with that possibility. Aria urges him to stop, worried about what will happen, but Holden says that just because someone says something is best for you, it doesn't mean it's true, and he doesn't want to spend his life sitting on front of a TV when he could be doing what he loves.

Aria texts Ezra that she is sorry they will have to reschedule their date and sticks around to watch Holden compete. She is impressed by his skilled and also scared by how violent the tournament seems. It looks like he is in trouble at one point, but manages to dodge his opponent and ultimately wins, much to Aria's relief.

Later, Holden approaches Aria, happy she stayed and says it was nice to have an audience. She quickly says she won't be coming to the next one. She congratulates him, and says that although he was great, she's pretty sure isn't what the doctor ordered. Holden says he recommended gardening, but martial arts is way better. Aria's phone rings, and Aria answers to find that it's Byron, who wants to talk to Holden. Aria passes him the phone, and Byron says he's sorry to bother him, and lies, covering up for the fact he is checking up on them.

The Liars discuss the payoff they arranged with Jonah. Spencer came through with the money from an unnamed relative. Aria and Spencer plan to meet Jonah at 6 pm and ask Emily and Hanna not to join them because he might get suspicious if they crowd him. Emily and Hanna want to come along, but eventually agree not to go. Mona walks by and pulls Hanna away to talk. Aria lets Hanna know they will be in the cafeteria.

Aria and Spencer meet Jonah at the park. They give him the money, and he gives them an address. Unsatisfied with just an address, they ask him for more. He says that's all there is and that when he gave Vivian the address, she was happy with it. With that, Jonah leaves. Aria and Spencer are about to go to the address, but then they spot Garrett in his car, watching them. So, they decide to go later.

Aria talks with Ezra on the phone about his upcoming interview. Before they are able to discuss it more, Ella walks in and Aria pretends to be talking to Emily and quickly ends the call. Ella shows her the letter "A" had sent to Byron and asks Aria if she knows who sent it. Aria replies she does not, getting visibly nervous and scribbling in her journal. Ella wonders if Ezra knows the person who sent the letter to which Aria quickly says no. Ella brings up the letter she got last year about Meredith, stating how that was signed by "A" too. Before leaving, she assures Aria that she and Byron will be looking into the matter.

The girls gather in Spencer's bedroom where Hanna tells the girls about Ashley's sleeping with Officer Wilden to get the shoplifting charges dropped. She also tells them Mona has been getting texts from "A" about it and feels bad keeping her out of the loop. When Hanna goes downstairs to get food, Spencer asks Hanna to check if Garrett is still outside, as he followed her home.

Aria tells Emily and Spencer that "A" sent her dad a letter trying to get her caught with Ezra and now her mom is on the hunt to find out who "A" is. Spencer questions why "A "would send a letter like that if she and Ezra are not together anymore. Aria admits that they are actually still seeing each other. Emily accepts this, but Spencer is furious at Aria for lying. Aria apologizes, then before Spencer can reply, Hanna calls the other girls downstairs.

Caleb sent Hanna an email with a video attachment. It is the next part of the video from "A's" phone and shows Melissa entering the room looking for Ali. The girls are shocked and Aria, Hanna, and Emily immediately want to turn Melissa in, but Spencer gets extremely defensive. The girls reluctantly decide to let Spencer talk to Melissa before they do anything.

Aria, Hanna, and Emily go to the address Jonah gave them. It is the house of an abandoned law firm office. The door is locked, so they look around. Aria sees a stack of letters in the mail slot and goes to investigate. She pulls at a letter when suddenly a creepy old man yells back at her from inside. An alarm goes off. Terrified, she falls backward and hurts her leg. The other girls help her up and they run away.

At Hanna's house, Aria nurses her wounds, while Hanna is researches the law firm. She finds out that the firm closed down 3 months ago. She wants to find out who worked there, hoping it leads them to another clue, but Aria decides they got scammed.

The next day, the girls look on while Hanna approaches Mona to find out if she followed "A's" instructions. Later, Emily and Aria sit together at lunch. Hanna invites Mona to join them.

Later, Ezra meets Aria in her car. Aria asks him about the trip and says she is glad it's all over. Ezra says that Aria's dad is clearly on to them and that he hasn't declined the offer yet. The job is an incredible opportunity and if he turns it down, Byron will know why. Aria says that they will figure something out like they always do. Ezra says that he's not so sure about that anymore. She asks if he is giving up on them. He says no, but they've been trying to work it out for a long time and maybe they should consider the possibility it is not meant to be. Aria is very visibly upset. Ezra leaves, having to get to class. She breaks down and cries in her car.

Back at her house, Aria curls up in her bed and continues to cry. Ella asks Aria what's wrong and Aria tells her to go away. Ella says she won't until Aria tells her why she's upset. Aria reveals to her that Ezra is leaving and so Byron's getting his wish. Ella is confused, but Aria doesn't believe that Ella wasn't a part of the scheme to get Ezra out of their lives. With some cutting words, she storms out.

Later, Aria and Ezra eat and talk at Ezra's apartment. Aria wonders when he is leaving because it feels like he's left already. He assures her he won't be leaving right away. There is a knock at the door. Ezra opens it to find Ella. Initially surprised, then prepared for the fallout, he lets her in. Outraged, Aria wants to know if Ella plans to bring her home in handcuffs or just yank her out by her hair. Ella says neither. She came to listen.

Ella stares at Ezra and Aria sitting opposite her on the couch. Aria wants to know what they're all doing there. Ella admits she does not condone their relationship, but is afraid of what will happen if she takes the same stance as Byron. She wants to understand the relationship between Aria and Ezra before anyone makes any rash decisions. They are interrupted by the kettle whistling.

Aria packs her books for school and Ella tells her Byron will be returning home today just in time for the father-daughter dance. She asks her mom to try to convince him Ezra is not a bad guy, but Ella can't promise anything. They agree to keep the conversation from the night before to themselves until Ella can wrap her head around their relationship herself.

The girls stand outside at school to discuss the latest text from "A." They accuse Melissa of being "A," but Spencer insists it is impossible. Aria worries that Melissa may know about the N.A.T. video. Spencer explains how devastated Melissa was to find Ian dead and continues to insist there is no way she could be "A." Hanna thinks they should turn the video over to the cops anyway because it is evidence, but the other girls all agree turning over evidence to the cops has not worked in their favor in the past. They allow Spencer to try to get to the bottom of it on her own before doing anything.

Aria catches Mike shaving at the bathroom mirror and jokes that if Byron were there, he'd be taking pictures to commemorate the event. Mike asks Aria for a ride to the dance since his friend Gavin invited him to help DJ. Aria tells him to find another ride since she's "not feeling the whole father-daughter thing lately." Mike thinks she should go to avoid suspicion, revealing he knows she is not seeing Holden, having overheard her and Ella talking about it. He asks Aria why being with Fitz is worth all the trouble it has caused. She tells him when you love someone, it is worth fighting for, no matter what the odds.

Byron walks in on Aria trying to pick a dress for the dance. He wants to know what color she'll be wearing so he can choose a matching tie. Byron admits they have had their problems lately, but he still wants to take his little girl to the father-daughter dance.

Aria dances with Byron. He says he wants to make sure they get a picture together and talks about when she was little, she would stand on his shoes to dance. She says that was a really long time ago, then spots Hanna across the room. Byron leaves to get them drinks.

Aria, Mona, Spencer, and Emily all converge on Hanna, who informs them her mom is "hot on the A trail." Ashley thinks the police report was sent to Hanna, not Mona, and gave it to Wilden because she think it will keep them safe. Aria is worried now that both of their mom's are looking for "A" and scared what "A" might do if they get too close. Hanna almost brings up Dr. Sullivan, but Spencer cuts her off, and says they need a creative solution to this problem. Mona has an idea. It requires a big lie and apparently she is terrible at that. She asks which one of them is the best liar and they all point to Aria. Slightly affronted, she asks Mona what lie she has to tell.

Aria finds her dad, who still wants to get their photo taken. She asks if they can leave early because Hanna needs her. Byron doesn't quite believe her and pushes again for a photo. Aria finally tells him the truth, that she is not his little girl anymore, and leaves.

Aria sits in Mrs. Marin's kitchen and confesses to sending Hanna that police report. She tells Ashley she had begged Hanna to stop shoplifting because if she were to be caught again, she could end up in jail. Aria says she made up that police report to scare Hanna straight and admits that she is A (for Aria, for anonymous). Aria apologizes and asks if there is anything else she can do, but Ashley says she can take it from here.

Hanna arrives at Aria's room wanting to know if her mom bought Aria's story. Aria has no idea. She gets a call from Jonah, of all people, which Hanna urges her to answer.

Spencer's car pulls up next to some stores in Brookhaven, a nearby town. The girls all get out of the car and Aria explains that Jonah told her Alison had been getting texts from more than one number, one of which led them here. Hanna wonders if Melissa could still be "A." They stand on the sidewalk wondering where the calls could have originated from when Aria spots a "Doll Hospital," a store full of antique dolls very similar to the dolls "A" sent. When Aria says she is cold, Spencer hands her the keys to get a coat out of the trunk, not just any coat - Vivian's coat. Aria puts it on, then hears a voice call out "Vivian." She turns to see a young man staring at her.

Sitting outside Lucky Leon's, Aria tells the others about Duncan, the boy who thought she was Vivian at the end of the previous episode. She told him she was a friend of Vivian's and hasn't seen her since she gave her the coat. He doesn't know Alison/Vivian is dead because he has been in Florida the past year. Aria shows Spencer Duncan's number and tells her he met Vivian in a bookstore a few doors down from the creepy doll hospital Jonah sent them to. Emily questions if Duncan is just a random guy Alison flirted with, but Spencer is sure Ali wouldn't have wasted time flirting while trying to track down "A." Aria decides to call him. Just then they all turn and look at Jenna and Toby emerge from a car.

In the hall at school, Mona gives Hanna a cell phone and offers hand sanitizer to all the girls. After she leaves, Aria tells the others she is going to meet Duncan in the courtyard at school - a safe, public location. They disperse when the bell rings.

Outside, Duncan questions whether Aria has told him her real name, because he knew Vivian was not Vivian's real name. Taken aback, Aria considers this, and finally tells him Vivian's name was Alison. Then she has to deliver the unfortunate news that Alison is dead. Duncan is clearly upset to hear she was killed over a year ago and that they haven't found the killer. He realizes Aria must be Alison's writer friend and tells her Ali talked about her 4 best friends a lot. Aria asks Duncan if Ali ever mentioned someone she was afraid of, but Duncan isn't keen on talking about it there. He admits he didn't meet Ali at the bookstore in Brookhaven, but somewhere nearby. Aria offers to meet him there if he would be more comfortable. He isn't sure and agrees to call her. Before leaving, Duncan admits to seeing Alison the weekend she disappeared.

Spencer is surprised to hear this and Hanna doubts if Duncan is telling the truth, but Aria believes his reaction to hearing Ali is dead was real. Garrett pulls away from the curb in a big hurry and the girls, besides Hanna, all receive a text from "A." They see Toby and Jenna across the street discussing something with the fire department. The girls wonder if Toby is telling them about the night of the Jenna Thing.

In Spencer's kitchen, Spencer, Emily, and Jason look at the bag of Ali's things Jason brought over. Aria knocks at the door and enters, and lets Spencer know Duncan called back and she's going to meet him someplace he used to go with Alison. She says hi and bye to Emily and leaves.

Aria meets Duncan at an air field and is surprised to hear he used to take Ali flying. He's had his flying license since he was 16. Duncan asks if Aria is ready to talk about Alison and heads toward the airplanes. She hesitates, then follows.

Duncan pilots a very small aircraft with Aria sitting next to him in the cockpit. They look down at Pennsylvania, all lit up below them. Aria asks how often he would take Ali flying. He says as often as he could. Guessing Aria's next question, he says he could have been in love with Ali had someone, another boy, not gotten in the way. Duncan says flying made Alison feel safe and in control. He tells Aria to take the yoke, which controls the plane. When she declines, he tells her she will never understand her friend if she doesn't try. Aria takes hold, and Duncan lets go. He says Alison's face would change when she was up there, and no one could get to her. He didn't know who was after her - a stranger, a boy she knew, or a friend. The plane shakes and Aria wants to let go, but Duncan makes her hold on. He asks why Aria said they never caught Ali's killer if Ian Thomas confessed in his suicide note. Aria discloses that she and her friends think the note was fake and Ian was protecting someone. Duncan finally takes back control of the plane and reveals he picked up Alison from Hilton Head Sunday morning of Labor Day weekend and flew her to Philadelphia. He said she was different that day; she figured something out. Aria realizes Ali was in town 6 or 7 hours earlier than they previously thought.

At the hospital, after an explosion at Jason's house, Aria fills in Emily and Hanna about Duncan flying Alison back to Philly Labor Day weekend and she didn't take the bus like they thought. A little while later, Jason sits next to Aria and asks her what Jenna was doing in his house. He was out of town when he heard about the fire. She asks how bad the damage is, but he won't know until it has been assessed in the morning. Aria says she is sorry before getting up to talk to Spencer's mom.

The girls gather in Jenna's hospital room. Aria tells her Jason was miles away when Jenna got the text. She breaks down and cries, saying she doesn't blame them for what happened.

The girls gather in Spencer's bedroom to reexamine Ali's items. They discover a torn postcard and a newspaper from August 2009 with an ad for a concert in Rosewood circled. The music box creepily starts playing on its own, startling the girls.

Aria shows up to Ezra's office with coffee. Ezra tells Aria he's worried about the fallout from him not taking the job Byron lined up for him. She tries to assuage his fears and reminds him her dad is not all that powerful, then tries to take his mind off things with a kiss, instructing him to lean into it more.

At school, Spencer finds out that Alison and "A" had been communicating via newspaper classified ads and had planned to meet in person. The girls realize the meeting place was on Spruce Street, near the creepy doll hospital. Just then, Jenna and Toby approach them. Jenna says the surgery was unsuccessful and that that Hanna saving her made her realize that people can grow, so now it's her turn. Jenna then apologizes for hating them and for holding a grudge. She goes on to say she's never been the person they really needed to fear and walks away.

Aria believes Jenna to be sincere, but Emily doesn't buy her story, thinking she must be as angry as ever if the surgery failed. They ponder who Jenna may have been referring to, guessing Garrett, or Melissa. Spencer believes Ali had the answer and decides they must retrace her steps if they ever want to figure it out.

While leaving her mother a note on her desk, Aria finds what looks to be a boarding school application in Vermont that Byron has faxed to Ella with instructions to send over Aria's transcript.

The girls go to the doll store in Brookhaven. Aria vents about her father and boarding school. They run into the owner, an older woman named Martha. They ask if anyone had ever bought a voodoo doll (the same as one Alison received), but Martha says they don't sell those. Inside they speak with a creepy young boy named Seth, who apparently has a "gift" that allows him to see things that haven't happened yet. He tells them that Alison was in the store two summers ago looking for a voodoo doll and he warned her about the dark-haired couple who wanted to hurt her. Martha sends him upstairs, but on his way out he says he's sorry for what happened to Alison, specifically citing her cause of death. The girls are visibly freaked out.

Later that night, the girls argue about the validity of Seth's claims. Aria thinks the kid is nuts, while Emily believes he could really be psychic. Spencer comes clean about her parents' belief that her sister could have had something to do with Alison's death. She also tells them about Jason being her brother. The girls are stunned. Spencer doesn't know what to think, but she knows Melissa had motive and opportunity to kill Ali.

Aria comes home to find her mom folding laundry in her room. She angrily brings up the boarding school application, accusing her and Byron of trying to ruin her life. Ella tries to explain that it's not only about Ezra; she believes Aria is being bullied and needs to be kept safe. Aria believes Ella's heart might be in the right place, but Byron is only trying to punish her. Aria hints at having the ability to hurt Byron's career by revealing his past affair with his grad student.

At school the next day, the girls tell Spencer they think Melissa is bluffing. Spencer isn't so sure. Hanna decides enough is enough. They will trick Melissa into texting them, proving she is "A" once and for all.

Aria visits Ella in her classroom. Ella tells Aria the boarding school idea has been shelved "for the moment." She says it had nothing to do with her threat. Ella tells Aria she can't even recognize her anymore, turning on her own family. Aria says she was backed into a corner and can't be expected to turn on Ezra either. She is ashamed and isn't sure whether their family can ever return to what it used to be.

Aria lets herself into Ezra's apartment, surprised to find him there, not working late. She informs him that boarding school is off the table thanks to some nasty dirt she had to dig up that she would rather remain buried. He responds by telling her he's been fired and next Monday will be his last class.

Ezra has been told by the school they are no longer offering his course, which he assumes is Byron's doing. Aria is angry, but Ezra tells her breaking up her family is not an option. His plan is to live with his parents for a while and start looking for a new job, more than likely outside of Rosewood. He tells her he loves her and kisses her. Still kissing, they peel away layers of clothing and move to the bed.



In unmAsked, the four girls are in Spencer's living room and a report about Garrett's arrest. It says the police think he joined the police force to get rid of any evidence linked to him and the night Alison disappeared. Melissa walks in and they turn off the TV. She tells them that she knows how Jenna went blind and that if Garrett killed Ali, it was because she deserved it. After Melissa leaves, they get a note from A inviting them to the  Masquerade Ball.

Outside school, the girls discuss how smart and untrustworthy Melissa is. Spencer insists they overlooked a clue in Ali's bag. They change the subject to costume choices when Mona approaches. Mona suggests they all go shopping after school together. They all turn her down one by one.

Aria brings the girls to Ezra's apartment while he is out of town for a safe place to search Ali's bag. The girls look through his book collection and photo albums and plenty of comments. Hanna gets a text from Mona asking where she is since she's not with Caleb. They comb through the contents of Alison’s bag once more and find the clue they were looking for.

That evening, during a thunderstorm, they drive to the Lost Woods Resort. The innkeeper, a dead ringer for Norman Bates, taps on the window, scaring them on top of their already frayed nerves. Spencer asks for Room 1, the number on the postcard they found in Ali’s things.

Aria volunteers to go with Spencer to get a closer look at the guestbook. They climb through the window with flashlights. Aria and Spencer discover Alison had checked in twice as Vivian Darkbloom. The next morning, Spencer and Aria return the guest book.

Later, the girls arrive at the masquerade together. They have 3 hours to figure out who "A" is and agree to split up for the next hour to investigate separately. Aria receives a text and excuses herself to go look around. She enters a maze  and Jenna follows, taking off her mask, revealing her eyes to viewers once again. Waiting at the end of the maze is a masked Ezra and Aria is very happy to see him. Aria and Ezra have their first official dance. They remove their masks and even kiss in public, not caring who might see.

The other girls reunite with Hanna and all 3 are curious about the identity of the Black Swan. They see her talking to Jenna and Lucas. When they try to get a closer look, the mystery woman runs away, escaping out the back door which locks behind her. All she leaves behind is a feather from her dress. Aria makes the call instead as they realize Hanna's phone has been set to record every time it is turned on. Spencer covertly answers Aria's video call so that her friends can see and hear her conversation with Mona. The girls come to the realization that Mona is in fact "A," leaving Hanna in a state of disbelief that her so-called friend is "A." A quick-thinking Spencer drops the hint that they are headed to Look Out Point. Aria knows a shortcut and they race to get there first.

Shortly after, the authorities and an ambulance arrive, surprisingly, along with Dr. Sullivan, and they discover Mona survived the fall. Dr. Sullivan comforts the girls, who are all visibly shaken by what has happened. Dr. Sullivan reveals that "A" blackmailed her by threatening her son, which is why she disappeared. Dr. Sullivan diagnoses Mona with a personality disorder which caused her to experience a sense of hyper-reality and omnipresence. We learn from Mona's thoughts that everything is working out just as she planned. Mona is found to be criminally insane and sent to an asylum for treatment. Dr. Sullivan is confident that Mona can be helped with treatment.

Later, the girls head to Emily's house to spend the night when an ambulance rushes past them. The police are waiting, and Emily runs up to her mom, who tells her that the police found a body… and they think it is Maya's. Emily is distraught. She falls into Spencer's arms and screams and sobs at the sight of the stretcher taking the body away while the girls try to comfort her.

In "It Happened 'That Night'," it is opened up with the Liars all together it's the same time of year when Alison had gone missing. The Liars had went their all own separate paths. Hanna went to classes with Caleb. Emily to build houses in Haiti. And Aria had spent her summer with taking a photography class. They were drinking, when they all fell asleep. Much like that old sleep over Aria wakes up to Spencer missing but this time it's Emily to and she is no where to be found. They find Emily at Alison's grave still drunk, but Alison's grave has been dug up and Alison's remains are gone. With Emily holding the shovel, Aria and Spencer wonder if she had anything to do with it but seeing how drunk she still is they wonder how she got there. After Spencer realizes someone is setting them up again Aria and Hanna wipe the prints off the Shovel and bury it somewhere in the woods, while Spencer takes Emily home to get her cleaned up and to burn her clothes. When Hanna and Aria go to Hanna's car they see Lucas getting into his car and wonder why he is out at this time of the night. When they get to Spencer's, Spencer's says there going to her families cabin just to be safe. Later that morning Spencer's mom calls and tells her the news on Alison which they already know. Aria wakes up in Ezra's apartment, where they talk about their anniversary. At school Aria, Spencer, and Hanna are getting their registrations while wondering where Emily is. They see Lucas and wonder if he had anything to do with "That Night", They Lucas talking to some mystery girl who matches the description of the "Black Swan". Aria later goes to the bathroom where she has a panic attack thinking A is there.
 * -|Season 3=



Spencer and Hanna go to her and tell her Mona is A and shes locked up at Radley, but Aria is convinced she got put in there so she won't be in jail. When Hanna says they will soon have Jubilation, which makes her smile but while Spencer and Hanna hug her she has a concerned look on her face. Later that afternoon she's helping her mom pack up her things for her apartment. They talk about their lives and how things change. Later that night she's called to the police station to be questioned about Alison's remains being stolen. When Ezra shows up they decide to have dinner with Ella. The next day after hanging out with Hanna and Spencer there worried about Emily's whereabouts. She soon shows up at Spencer's and tells them she got a text and she thinks it's from whoever took her to Alison's grave, She also tells them about seeing a car (Jenna's) and remembers being in a car she didn't recognized. Later they all go to "Lost Woods Resort" since it's now shut down. They go to A's lair and tell Emily the truth, Which is after discovering Maya's death everything in the lair was gone over night almost as if it was never there but Spencer has been remembering what was there and she think the black swan might have something to do with it. After Spencer's car alarm goes off they all go outside to find all the doors to her car open with over dozens of pictures of them being at Ali's grave. with a text from the new A reading "Mona played with dolls, I play with body parts Game On bitches. -A".

In Blood Is The New Black, In Ella's class there reading a story of a woman being blackmailed, but while Ella was passing around papers Emily leaves the classroom. Aria and Spencer follow her with Hanna in the hall they all go into the bathroom. Emily's washing her hands and shows them the bracelet "A" gave her reading "DEAD GIRLS CANT SMILE" with teeth around the words Aria think those are Alison's real teeth and wants to give them to the police. Spencer thinks it's a bad idea since they lied to the police about where they were that night. Which Aria declares was a huge mistake. Aria says they should at least tell there parents but Spencer says they have no idea what this "A" knows and that they would have to tell every lie they told their parents since Alison's funeral. Spencer offers to put it in her locker but Hanna knows that it's not safe from "A," Hanna grabs the bracelet and Aria tugs it back saying she'll put it in her purse but it falls into the toilet. Anyway, Spencer reaches for it but Aria says to be careful cause the toilets are censored. The bell rings before Spencer can reach the bracelet which causes it to flush. During lunch Aria says she wanted to give the bracelet to the cops so they can see if there were any finger prints on it, But Emily assures her it would have been hers. Spencer tells Hanna she needs to make Mona talk and Aria agrees. Aria thinks she still giving orders. After Hanna leaves they notice Jenna and think she's tied to Lucas and the black swan, Aria notices Jenna is even blinder than usual since she got back. After lunch Emily says shes failing and she may have to repeat the eleventh grade. Aria suggest that Ezra could tutor her since he needs to work. Aria sees Meredith and tells Spencer and Emily that she's the one who she and Alison saw kissing her dad. Meredith is talking to a faculty member and Aria asks her why she's there. Meredith tells her she's applying for a teacher's position and that she won't have her as a reference. After school she tells Ezra that Meredith might work at her school with her mom. Ezra wonders why aria is having him drop her off three blocks away from her dad's house. Aria says she hates having to not mention him around her dad, but he says they'll get though it. Emily calls Aria but won't call Ezra, Aria tells her to call Ezra because he's available. The next day Emily talks about tutoring with Ezra, When Aria opens her locker there's an envelope she opens it and finds an earring in it. Aria looks surprised and nervous When Spencer and the others ask whats wrong Aria tells them that one night her and Alison broke into her dad's office at Hollis and tried to find out if Byron kept his word and wasn't still seeing Meredith. After Alison finds an earring in the couch she shows Aria and she finds the other earring deeper in the couch Aria realized he lied and her and Alison trash his office making it look like Meredith did it so he'll dump her. Aria tells them after they trashed the place she felt horrible and begged Alison not to tell. After Alison's body was found before her funeral Jessica, Ali's mom asked them to leave something in Ali's coffin. Aria says she put the earring in it. They realize if those teeth were real or not the earring was in Ali's grave. After school Jenna asks Aria to help her play during an assembly next week. Aria lies and says she cant but as she leaves Jenna watches her. She tells Hanna she wishes she could get something out of Mona. Later "A" texts Aria telling her to tell her dad about her trashing his office or this "A" will give the earring to the police. While Aria hides the earring for now she doesn't notice "A" is out her window watching. The next morning she tells Byran the truth, He tells her they both owe Meredith an apology. Later that day Aria goes to the coffee house and finds Meredith, she apologizes for framing her but Meredith tells her that Byron already told her and that she has a date with him tomorrow and she has Aria to thank for that. Aria decides to give her, her earring back But Meredith tells her it's not hers and that she's never seen that earring before. The next day at school in the bathroom Aria, Hanna, Spencer, and Emily think of what to do next with Jenna and the new "A". After hearing Jenna coming into the bathroom Spencer plans on finding out if she can really see. After they do they plan on using it against her.



In Kingdom of the Blind, all of the girls are outside of the school watching Jenna. Emily can't believe she has been faking her blindness for so long. They ask Aria to accompany Jenna in her musical program so she can watch her more and try to see what she's up to.



The next day at school, Aria agrees to help Jenna. She is pleased, as they walk down the hallway. Jenna makes a joke about seeing something, making Aria uncomfortable. Aria tells her she just had stage fright. They arranged for Aria to come over after school to practice.



Aria meets her friends at lunch where they talk about Jenna some more. Aria assures them that she can snoop and play keyboard at the same time.



Aria is practicing with Jenna. While playing, Aria notices a piece of paper lying on the bed. She tries to get a closer look at it, but can't with Jenna in the room. At that point, Jenna decides to take a break and they have a little chat. Jenna asks Aria about Emily. They also talk about Mona and Alison's grave. At this point, Jenna pointedly asks if anyone thinks the girls had something to do with the grave-digging. Then, Jenna leaves the room and Aria gets a better look at the note. The note just says,"H. COBB, 4:15, WED, EARPLUGS."



In Spencer's room, Aria tells the others about the note. The girls decide to follow Jenna at 4:15 the next day to see where she is going. Aria then mentions that Jenna also asked about Emily. Spencer thinks Jenna is pressing Aria to find out how much Emily remembers. They now know that somewhere between leaving Spencer's house that night and going to Alison's grave, Emily was with Jenna. They just have to know when and why. Just then, Aria gets a call from her mom and so leaves the room to talk to her. Emily asks Spencer about Veronica. They still do not understand why she is taking Garrett's case. Spencer is convinced Melissa is the reason her mother is defending Garrett. Hanna then confesses her thoughts about Melissa and Garrett: perhaps Ian isn't the father of Melissa's baby. Maybe that was the medical record Garrett told Spencer about. Aria enters the room and says that the vice principal wants to speak with Ella about something.



Meanwhile, Ezra is still trying to find a job. He has recently been rejected in an interview. Aria tries to comfort him by kissing him, but she gets distracted. She confesses to Ezra that Ella altered Emily's grade, and the vice-principal now wants to talk about her grading practices. She's worried her mother is going to get fired.

In Birds of A Feather, the four girls are sitting at the Apple Rose Grille discussing what Jenna told her last episode. They say if she is telling the truth she can't be on the A-Team. They wonder if it is Lucas but Hanna says he isn't capable of digging up a grave. Then they talk about Black Swan and her identity. Hanna thinks it is Melissa but before they talk about it anymore, [[Jason Di comes in and demands to know why Veronica is defending Garret. Veronica doesn't want to talk about it in front of everybody there. Jason says he is giving a reward for whoever knows any information about where Ali's body is. A sends them a text saying: "imagine what I could do with five grand."

The next day at school, Aria is talking to Hanna about her dad and Meredith. Hanna tells her she should tell her mom before she finds out from somebody else. When she goes to talk to her mom, she backs out and doesn't tell her. Instead, they make plans to do something.

Later, Aria is in Hanna's kitchen where Hanna tells her that Caleb is getting suspicious. Aria says if it were her, she would tell Ezra. Aria is looking at dating websites for her mom and Hanna helps find somebody. Aria tells her she didn't tell Ella about Meredith and this why she's making a dating profile for her. Ashley walks in and looks at what they are doing. They can't find anybody attractive enough. Ashley suggests a better site and they get on there. Hanna and Aria set up an account for her and Hanna names her "hotmama."

The next day, they are all in Spencer's living room. Hanna tells them that Wilden was trying to see Mona in Radley. If Mona knows that they were at Ali’s grave, they would all be in jail right now, so Spencer says. Hanna interjects that they need to find out who the Black Swan is pronto. They also need to find out where Melissa lost her baby, but Spencer is still on the defense. They know why Mona hated the Liars, but why would Melissa have a vendetta against the Liars? Aria says that Melissa knows that the liars have the video of her in Ali's room the night she disappeared. Also, she fits the costume. Immediately, Spencer decides to go to Philly to talk to Melissa.

Later that day, Aria, Emily, and Hanna are waiting by Melissa's apartment. After Melissa leaves, Spencer won't let them go in until she gets there. They go in anyway and look through her things. They try to find anything with a date but when they are in the middle of searching, Melissa comes back. They clean everything up the way it was before and hide in her closet. After the close call, they find a costume bag. When they unzip it, they find a feather.

Aria, Hanna, and Spencer are in Aria's room. They show the feather to Spencer. This proves Melissa's "A," but Spencer is still does not believe it. They decide to go to Philly again and talk to Melissa together.

That night, Ella comes in Aria's room and confesses to finding her profile on the dating website. Ella tells her she isn't looking for anybody right now. Aria apologizes and says she just wanted her to be happy. After Aria goes to delete it though, Ella tells her she actually does want to keep it.

At the end, we see Aria comforting a heartbroken Hanna. She is crying in Aria's lap because Caleb broke up with her.

In That Girl is Poison, Aria, Spencer, and Emily are taking an evening stroll on the scenic sidewalks of Rosewood. They consider going to Hanna's house with takeout, who is still brooding over her break-up with Caleb, when suddenly, they hear sirens. A police car and ambulance pull up to Garrett's house and Mrs. Reynolds is rolled out on a stretcher. Aria sees somebody across the street dressed in a black hoodie. Before the other girls can see, that person disappears.

The next day, Ezra is outside Lucky Leon's, buying a newspaper. Aria gets him takeout from the restaurant. He tries to pay her for the food, but she refuses. Ezra doesn't seem to appreciate the gesture. She tries to explain, but Ezra cuts her off, saying he has to go to an interview, and heads towards his car. But before Aria gets in the car, she sees Lucas banging on a storefront. He starts screaming, "Please! Just give me back my stuff!"

Later at Spencer's house, Spencer advises Aria not to baby Ezra too much. Ezra texts her that he's been invited to Jenna's party. Spencer questions the purpose of Jenna's birthday party. She also wants to find out when Garrett is visiting the hospital so she can be there to see who he's really visiting.

Ezra is surprised Aria is interested in stopping by Jenna's party. He gives her an antique camera as a gift. At the party, Ezra wants to leave, but Aria talks him into waiting a little bit longer. Ezra is getting angry that Aria keeps ditching him at the party. This leads to a discussion of money and he tells her he got a new job. Laurel spots her wet equipment and Aria offers to run to the studio and bring her back dry memory cards. Inside the studio Aria finds Lucas' equipment. While she looks through it we see a shadow. She pulls out some film and leaves. Outside she runs into Lucas who says "I need to get inside." He initially won't let her pass, but Ezra pulls up and Lucas sprints off.

Aria calls Emily and looks at the negatives. Emily looks up the drug from her flask and finds it's a sedative used to subdue aggressive patients and inmates. One of the side effects is memory loss and Emily realizes she was drugged that night. Aria finds three of the pills in Lucas' camera bag.

In The Remains of the 'A', Aria is at Ezra's house and Spencer tells her what happened with Garret's mom. Then, Ezra asks her about her job. She tells him that she wants to ditch work today. Ezra doesn't think that's such a good idea, as it's her first day. They both have an impromptu photoshoot with the antique camera Ezra gifted Aria. Later, Aria is looking for a sock while Ezra is taking a shower. She searches in Ezra's sock drawer and finds a huge stack of money. She is shocked and tells Ezra she needs to go.

Hanna, Spencer and Aria meet at the Grille. Spencer suggests that Garrett might be taking instructions from "A", and that's how he wound up behind bars. Hanna tells them that she has made some changes in her plan; Emily and her are going to hide behind the organ and see who is at the party, so that they can plan their attack. Aria asks Spencer about the reward Jason offered to whoever has information about Alison's body. She thinks that might be related to Ezra's sudden influx of cash.

Aria goes to Ezra's place. She confronts him about the money in the sock drawer. Ezra tells her he sold a car belonging to his grandfather. He did not want to tell Aria because he is embarrassed that he lost his job, and is now answering want-ads for webzines and reusing coffee filters. Aria feels sorry for suspecting him and asks to join him on the couch. They snuggle together, but Ezra steals a secretive glance at his sock drawer.

In Crazy, Aria, Emily, and Spencer are at the Brew and they see somebody that looks just like Alison. The girl walks over to them and introduces herself as CeCe. She says her and Ali were best friends and Alison talked about them to her. She says she used to date Jason and she works across the street.

Hanna comes home with Aria and finds an Ouija board on her kitchen counter. She grabs it and cuts herself. On the other side of the board is a note from "A" that says "See how easy it is for me to get your blood?" Hanna begins to panic, telling Aria about playing Ouija with Mona a few nights before they found Alison's body. A flower pot crashes outside, and Hanna immediately decides to sleep at Aria's that night.

Aria goes to see Mona. The visit is supervised. Mona asks "Would you like to play a game?" and begins shuffling a deck of cards. When the nurse leaves to get medication Aria demands that Mona tell her who is trying to hurt them. Mona only says "it isn't me" and "tell Hanna I'm sorry." Outside the hospital Aria meets up with Hanna. They decide to sneak back in to get more answers from Mona.

Hanna tells Aria that after the night she thought she saw Alison on her patio, she called Alison's mom and told her Alison was still alive, three days before Alison's body was found. They look up and Mona is gone, along with the keys.

Hanna and Aria find Mona in the Children's Ward. Ella calls Aria and tells her she went on a second date with Zack. She says she couldn't deal with Ted eating ice cream the same way Byron did.

Hanna tells the rest of the girls about the code she and Mona had when they were younger and Alison was missing (taking the first letter of every word) "Where were we? Maya's away sleeping sweet; until Garrett's all rosy, count on me." translates into "www.massugar.com". When the girls visit the website, a picture of Maya shows up on the screen. Underneath, it asks "What's the magic word?"

In Stolen Kisses, The episode opens with the girls who decide they need to figure out what is on the website featuring Maya's picture. Emily tries one possible password but comes up short.

Byron tells Aria that Meredith got the job at Rosewood High School. He says he'll tell Ella.

Aria meets Ezra's mother Dianne. She finds out his real last name is Fitzgerald, but he prefers to shorten it to Fitz. Dianne invites Aria and Ezra to an opening at a museum that night. Ezra tells Aria that he fibbed about when their relationship began. He told his mother, Dianne, that it was after he left Rosewood High School.

Aria drops by Spencer's place for help with her wardrobe. She goes through her mother's bag and finds Garrett's case file. Once they look through the file, they find the name Bart Comstock in the prosecution witness list. It seems Veronica is planning to attack this person's credibility. Later, Aria runs into Bart, who manages a movie theater in town. He says he told the police he saw Maya getting into a car with Garrett the day she was killed.

At the art function Aria asks Ezra about his parents' financial situation. He's not comfortable with the fact that his grandparents were extremely wealthy. Dianne asks Aria what her parents think of Ezra. She also asks about her parents being separated. Dianne then starts to get really nosy and rude about Aria's family, beginning to suggest how bad she's been for Ezra. She then says she's not going to let Aria "ruin" Ezra and hints at paying her to break up with her son. Aria leaves in disgust, spilling her drink into a nearby plant on the way. Ezra asks Dianne what she said to Aria, since he can't find her now. Ezra tells her this kind of stuff is why he doesn't want to have anything to do with his family.

Byron finds Aria sitting by herself on the floor. She asks him if he thinks she ruined Ezra's life. He says nobody could be harmed by having her in their life and hugs her. Aria begins to cry in her father's arms.

Hanna, Aria and Spencer watch a video of Emily from Maya's site. There are hundreds of videos, seemingly in no discernible order. They come across a video where Maya says to the camera, "I'm a coward. I know. I have to face my fears." Police car lights reflect on her as the video ends. They wonder why Mona send them to the site. They decide they need to watch the rest of the videos with Emily, so they try calling her.

In The Kahn Game, Aria shows Spencer a photo of Maya's arm with the same black eye tattoo that Holden had from the past episode. Spencer expresses no concern for the photo as she starts to stress about missing the early admissions deadline to the University of Pennsylvania. CeCe Drake comes in and passes Aria back her phone that she had left on the counter, and hears about Spencer's college conflict. Apparently, CeCe knows about a Friday night party where a man from the UPenn admissions will attend. Spencer desperately pleads with "puppy dog eyes" for CeCe to let her and Aria tag along to the party so Spencer can give her application to him.

Aria is then seen in the hallway outside of Ezra's apartment, hearing a loud argument going on. Ezra's brother, Wesley is now shown for the first time as he greets Aria while Ezra shouts at him to leave. Aria is surprised that again, Ezra has kept another family member from her and Ezra reveals why Wesley was there. Wes was offering Ezra money in order to buy back the car that he sold before. Apparently, the car wasn't his to sell in the first place in which his mother had claimed it an "old family heirloom" and wants it back. However, Ezra doesn't want to borrow the money, or even have to deal with his rich family for that matter, so he goes to withdraw money from the bank and leaves Aria behind along in his apartment.

Aria revels on Spencer's bed about how Ezra "kicked" her out of his apartment earlier, while Spencer proposes gaudy business attire to Aria that she will wear to impress the UPenn man, "Steven," at the party. They arrive at the party with CeCe and Spencer and Aria realize that the party is taking place at Noel Kahn's cabin. CeCe also reveals that Noel has an older brother named Eric, who is running the party. Not only that, once they try to get into the party, Aria and Spencer see that they have to get stamped with the same black eye that Holden and Maya had on their wrists. As it's a wild college party, Spencer and Aria feel uncomfortable while trying to find Steven with CeCe. Instead, they find Noel and Jenna and Aria challenges Noel to a game of "Truth". Within a certain time limit, each person can ask whatever they want to the other back and forth and they must tell the truth. So after CeCe and Eric have a rather playful game of "Truth", Noel and Aria have a turn. Noel tries to get Aria to tell everyone about her relationship with Ezra, but she is careful and leaves her answer vague. Aria continuously questions Noel about Maya, and he says that Maya came to the Kahn party a few times with an open invitation. Jenna tells Aria and Spencer that her and Noel know they lied about being at Spencer's lake house the night that Ali's body was stolen.

Spencer has challenged Jenna to play "Truth" but Aria decides to leave the party, after realizing Noel and Jenna know about her and Ezra. Aria then calls Ezra but it's his brother who picks up. She tells him to tell Ezra to pick her up and gives him the address. Wesley arrives and Aria accepts the ride. In the way to Ezra's apartment, Wes inadvertently tells Aria about Maggie, Ezra's ex-girlfriend whom he got pregnant in high school.

Later, Aria arrives at Ezra's and tells him she knows about Maggie. Ezra explains that his mother gave Maggie money to go away and never talk or contact Ezra anymore because she thought being pregnant in high school was ruining him. That's why he got away from his family and changed his last name to Fitz.

In What Lies Beneath, the four girls are in Hanna's room because she found a letter from Maya on her porch.Maya wrote that she had something she wanted to show Emily, but not to contact her phone because someone had stolen it. Hanna and Aria think that she found something that proves Garrett killed Ali. However, the location of the meeting place was washed off in the rain. They see a date on the note - the day Maya died.

Aria asks Ezra about his mother paying Maggie to disappear. Aria's still upset he never told her and there is tension. Aria apologizes to Ezra for not respecting his past. He tells her he's found Maggie, but hasn't called her yet.

Ella and Zack have lunch in her classroom. Aria catches them kissing. After he leaves Aria seems a little amazed by his looks and age. Ella and Aria then talk about Ella's social calendar. Aria is stunned to see that her mother is juggling at least three different men. Aria and Ezra are at the cafe when Aria sees Zack. Aria walks over to Zack and they talk about Ella. He tells her Ella is the only one he's seeing and that he really does like her. Aria tells Ella about Zack sounding like he's into her. She thinks her mother should be straight with him if she thinks their relationship will go anywhere.

Aria, Hanna, and Spencer watch more footage. At about 1:14 AM we see Noel and Jenna arrive at the cabin, kiss and then go inside. Seconds later Maya leaves the cabin and is grabbed by someone on her way out. Spencer points out that Garrett was arrested a full hour earlier, so he could not have been Maya's killer, nor could it have been Noel and Jenna because they were inside.



In "This Is A Dark Ride ", Aria is drugged and kidnapped by A, and later wakes up to realize she is gagged and tied up in a box with Garrett Reynolds, who is dead. She also stabbed (maybe Jason) someone with a screw driver. Beforehand, Spencer had found out from Garrett that Aria's dad was seen with Alison the night she was killed.

In "She's Better Now", Aria is in denial the entire episode that her dad could've killed Alison, but toward the end of the episode, when the girls break into the janitor's closet at school during a marathon and find Ali's diary, they find an entry where Alison describes how she blackmailed Byron in his office about his affair with Meredith. When the flashback ends, Aria is visibly heartbroken at the realization that her father could, in fact, be a monster. When the janitor, Harold, returns, Aria quickly rips out the pages from the diary as they run out, only to find upstairs, at the marathon, that a fire has been set and Meredith, who is also the girls' substitute teacher throughout the episode, is injured. Byron later accuses Aria and her friends of setting the fire, and Aria calls Spencer claiming that A set up the fire to make it look like they did it.

In "Mona-Mania", Byron apologizes to Aria for accusing her of starting the fire because the administration thinks they found out who did it, but Aria is still angry at him for the accusation. The next day, she asks Ella during school where she and Byron were the night of Alison's disappearance, and Ella claims that Byron poured too many glasses of wine, causing them to fall asleep through to the next day and miss Aria's call about Alison going missing. While discussing this with Hanna and Emily, they discover that the diary pages that Aria hid had gone missing. Aria finds out from Meredith that Byron snuck the glass of wine on Ella so that he could see Meredith because he thought she was pushing Alison to blackmail him, and that Byron stole the pages from Aria.

In "Misery Loves Company", Aria is at home, sick, when the girls visit her. They talk about Meredith and the pages. Meredith plays doctor and gives her another cup of tea. Aria notices how her phone is missing and Meredith comments that it is around here somewhere. It would be revealed that Meredith took her phone and has been putting something in her tea. Aria also sees Alison in this episode, who tells her that she was desperate for money which is why she blackmailed Aria's dad. Aria is visibly hurt by Alison's betrayal, but Alison claims that she never called her mom and is very cryptic about whether her dad killed her or not. She also reveals that Meredith has been drugging Aria in her tea, before leaving the room. When Aria wakes up, she finds she has been locked in her room by Meredith, and after several attempts to break free, to no avail, she breaks a mirror to make a makeshift shiv to defend herself. She falls asleep, as she is still drugged, but when she wakes up Meredith has gotten a hold of her shiv, and then knocks Aria out and throws her in her basement. Hanna and Emily discover her there later, as well as Byron, who tells the girls that he had walked away from Alison that night and did not kill her. Aria believes him and burns the diary pages.

In "A DAngerous GAme", Aria breaks up with Ezra. She is also the only two of the five girls who did not see Alison alive in the Red Coat.

'A' is for A-l-i-v-e In the beginning of the season "A is for A-L-I-V-E", Aria, along with the three other Liars and Mona discovered what was in the trunk ofDet. Wildens car. After discovering it was in fact a pig, she, Spencer, and Emily noticed a couple walking their way. After getting in Emily's car, they picked up Hanna and Mona and they all drove back to Spencer's house. She joined the other Liars in a game with Third Degree to question Mona about all she knew about her time being A. The next morning she woke up along with Spencer, Hanna, and Emily to find Mona gone. They freaked out for a little bit, but when Mona came back with coffee and breakfast, Aria and friends continued their game. As the girls were driving to the Lair, they went back to the scene of Wildens car to discover the press as all over the place. A sheet on the ground blew away by the wind, and Wilden was on the ground dead. Once at Mona's lair, Aria found a white mask identical to Caleb's from the Halloween train. It was known then that Mona was the impersonator. After discovering Darren and Melissa were the Queens of Hearts, she heard a child call out Alison's name and went outside to investigate. Later that night, Aria was studying at the Brew when Ezra walked in. Trying her hardest, she tried sneaking off, but Ezra caught her. They made small talk, and Aria ended the conversation with "Goodbye Mr. Fitz." At the school the next day, Aria was talking to Emily about Ezra. She was getting transfixed with Ezra when her Vice Principal was looking her way. Freaking out, Aria tried her best to make sure the VP had no idea she was looking at Ezra. She picked up her book and pretended to study with Emily. Soon, she was called to the VP's office and she was sent into a daydream where the VP had busted her relationship with Ezra due to an "anonymous concerned student". The VP told her he not only called her parents, but the police too. She freaked, ran down the hallway, and witnessed Ezra being arrested. After her daydream ended, the VP actually just wanted to give her documents for her mother, Ella to sign. At the end of the day, Aria attended the funeral of Det. Wilden where she and her friends saw The Black Widow. After that, she saw Ezra in the church and started approaching him until she realized he was avoiding her. After Ashley Marins cell phone was found in Wildens coffin, Aria, Hanna, Spencer, Emily and Mona discussed why the phone was in there in the first place. When the girls sat down next to Jessica DiLaurentis, Aria and friends took notice to Jenna and Nigel as well as The Lady In Black who sat behind the couple. When service was over, Aria and friends were confronted by Officer Holbrook  about the deaths of Wilden and Garrett. "A" sent Aria and friends a text, "Truth won't set you free Bitches! I'm going to bury you with it! Kisses! -A".
 * -|Season 4=

Turn of the Shoe In "Turn of the Shoe" the liars are at the Brew discussing The Black Widow and Melissa's whereabouts as Spencer tries to map out the night of the lodge fire with everyone's food. Mona comes in and they accuse her of planting Ashley's phone on Wilden's body and Mona agrees to take the liars to the RV lair to prove herself. When they get there the RV is gone. Spencer and Hanna get in one car and drive away while Aria and Emily hang back to spy on Mona. When they see Mona's tail lights flashing the rush over to find she was being strangled by someone wearing an Ali mask as Mona whacks them in the heat with a flashlight and falls out of the car. The masked stranger drives off in Mona's car before turning around and attempting to run them over. Aria and Mona are saved by Emily who falls and injures her shoulder. The next morning Aria texts Hanna that Mona found her car abandoned behind the school and is  freaking out. In English class Ezra offers extra credit for reading East of Eden, commenting it's for those students who haven't had enough doomed relationships. By the look on Aria's face this comment has obviously hit her hard. After school, Aria and Hanna are walking down the street discussing the Mona incident and A framing Hanna's mom. Afraid after seeing Mona's attack, Aria goes to a martial arts studio looking for Holden, but meets Jake instead. She signs up for private self defense classes to start the next day. During her class, Jake tries to get Aria to loosen up and trust him, but she is clearly agitated. When he asks if she is concerned about someone threatening her she says shes not, she just has a lot going on including her recent breakup. Jake is worried but she says she's not worried about her ex attacking her. They continue with the class, even after her time is up. After she successfully completes a maneuver she feels in control and impulsively kisses Jake and runs out of the studio embarrassed. On the way back from the martial arts studio Aria sees Mona talking to a cop in front of the police station. Worried A will see her and retaliate she drives up and talks Mona into the car. Mona says she was there to get information and that she overheard the police behind her talking about the lake being cordoned off as a crime scene. They found two sets of footprints, one male (presumably Wilden's) and one belonging to a female in high heels.

At the Hastings' house Aria talks to Spencer about Mona, the information she heard from the police, and about Aria kissing Jake. Hanna comes in with Tippi, the bird Ali spent a lot of time with in Georgia at Grandma D's. They keep talking and they mention the high heels Mona was talking about and Hanna suspects that they were her mom's. All of a sudden Tippi says "hey board shorts, miss me?" (same guy as Beach Hottie) and then sings a song. Aria is at home when Jake comes by to ask her out for coffee. He says "but it's ok if you're not comfortable with the whole student-teacher thing, could be a little complicated." Aria knows all to well how complicated that can be, but she agrees to go out for coffee with him. After Spencer figures out the "song" Tippi is singing is actually a phone number, Aria, Spencer, and Hanna call the number that matches the dial tone that Tippi was singing, but no one answers. The area code is in York County. Aria says they should go record Tippi singing the phone number, but when they go in the room, Tippi is missing, and the window is open. "A" stole Tippi.

Cat's Cradle The episode begins with Hanna, Aria, Spencer, and Emily at The Brew discussing Tippi and Hanna's mom. Hanna reminds the girls that Ashley didn't kill Wilden and they all agree. Spencer mentions Ella looks cozy with Zack across the way. Aria asks if it is weird to be jealous of your mother's love life. Spencer asks how things are going with Jake and Aria says she is seeing him tonight. Ella and Zack talk about Zack's upcoming trip to Vienna, Austria and he asks if Ella would like to come with him, but she says she can't because she has children and responsibilities in Rosewood. He asks her to take motherhood of the table for a moment, but Ella can't imagine picking up and moving to Vienna for a year. At the bookstore, Ella tells Aria about Zack's invitation to Vienna. Aria asks if she is considering it and Ella tells her she did consider it, but only for a second. Aria asks if she is worried about being away from Zack for a year, and Ella says yes, it is a long time to be away from someone.

Jake comes over Aria's house and they watch an old movie. Aria says she loves black and white movies, but Jake says he never watches them. Aria is disconcerted by this fact, but then Jake reveals he is kissing. He asks her why the idea they wouldn't like the same things makes her so nervous. Aria says she just wants to make sure they have stuff in common, but Jake says if they like all of the same things, it takes the surprise factor out of a relationship, and he doesn't think Aria likes dull.

The next day, Aria, Emily, and Spencer are leaving school. Aria tells them about her mom considering the trip to Austria and how she can't even imagine her mom being a continent away. Spencer tells them she couldn't find any information about the number Tippi gave them, but she's not giving up. Emily says she started going through Ali's notebooks and asks the other girls if they want to come over tonight and search them together. Emily's mom come up to them outside of school and tells Emily she's giving her a ride home. She is angry because the doctor called and asked if Emily has been taking her mom's medication. Emily denies it, but Pam says she checked the bottle and can see pills are missing. When Emily tries to walk away, Pam grabs her arm and starts yelling, making a scene, so Emily gets in the car and leaves. Aria then gets a text from "A" saying "Cleaning up Rosewood, one mean mommy at a time. Dig we must. Kisses - A," and wonders what "A" is planning for her mom.

That night, Aria helps Emily go through Alison's notebooks and she asks Emily if she told her mom about taking her pills, and Emily says yes, she had to. Aria is looking at the mask they found and she notices a second mask underneath that looks like Alison. They notice a marking on the inside - the web address of the Hector Lime, the creator of the mask. They call Hanna to come over and Hanna recognizes the mask they uncovered as the same type of mask that Mona was wearing on the Halloween train. She is not willing to wait for Spencer to call them back to decide what to do, not when "A" is intent on making her mom look guilty. The three of them decide to go to the studio where the mask was made to find some answers.

That night, Pam informs Emily that Family Services called her. They want to interview Pam about Emily because someone reported that she was "excessive" with Emily outside of school. Emily texts Aria and tells her that "A" called Family Services on her mom.

Aria gets coffee with Jake at the Brew at the same time, her mom is there with Zack. Aria goes over to her mom and encourages her to go on the trip with Zack. Ella decides to go to Austria. When Ella goes to share the good news with Zack, Jake rejoins Aria, noticing how intense the conversation with her mom seemed. Aria tells him she's going to miss her mom.

Face Time Emily joins the girls outside the school and tells them that her father is home because "A" called Family Services on her family. Aria is concerned her family is next. At lunch, Spencer asks Aria how Jake is doing, and she says that he is fine. Hanna asks her about Ella going to Austria with Zack, and Aria says that she thinks so and hopes that "A" doesn’t have a passport. Spencer, Emily and Aria meet up at the Brew and Spencer tells them that she wants to find out what Melissa does when she comes face to face with her mask. Will she go to Shana for some reason, straight to the mask-maker, or somewhere else?

Aria goes out with Jake. As they are walking through town, Malcolm, Ezra's son, runs up to them. Malcom asks why Aria doesn't come over anymore. She awkwardly makes an excuse then tells Malcolm to go back inside the bookstore before his parents start to worry. Jake asks who's Ezra, and Aria casually answers he's just one of her teachers. Aria tells Jake about Ezra, and how she and he were dating while Ezra was her teacher and everything that happened after. Jake tells her that she needs to figure out what she really wants even though she insists she and Ezra are finished. Aria asks him if she can call him sometime, and Jake says yes.

That night, Aria and Spencer plant the mask inside of Melissa’s suitcase and spy on her. Melissa pours herself a glass of wine, then notices the luggage oddly in the living room. She finds the mask inside and looks around worried. She leaves the house quickly and Aria and Spencer follow right behind her. Aria and Spencer follow Melissa directly to Hector's shop, and they see Melissa dragging a large sack out of the shop. Spencer decides to follow Melissa while Aria goes into the shop to keep an eye on Hector. Aria walks into the shop and goes into the back room where all of the molds and masks are. She finds a whole shelf of Ali masks, and confronts Hector about them. He tries to make her leave, but finally gives up, saying that he kept the castings because Ali’s face was so beautiful. Aria asks if Ali ever came to the shop with someone else, and Hector says that she did once. In Hector's flashback, we see Ali demanding Hector give her the money he owes her. He hasn't been paid yet, so he doesn't have the money for Ali, but she is desperate and tells him to give her whatever he has on him and they can call it square. He hands her some money not even close to the amount he actually owes her, but Ali doesn't care. She just asks what the fastest way is to get to Route 30. He gives her the directions and she runs out, jumping into a mysterious black car. Hector says that he couldn’t see the driver. This flashback takes place the summer Ali disappeared. Aria asks Hector why Melissa was here, and he says that she wanted to know about the Ali masks so he made her the same deal as he did with Emily - her face in exchange for information. Outside, Aria finds Spencer on the pier where she is throwing the remaining Melissa masks into the water. Spencer tells Aria Melissa is gone. Spencer and Aria go back to the Hastings house to look for Melissa, but she is gone. They get a text from "A" saying that Melissa is not part of the "A-Team." Hanna shows up and tells them she thinks that her mom killed Detective Wilden and that "A" knows it.

Gamma Zeta Die! After her class, on her way out, Ella tells the girls to hurry up to their next class and Aria notes that her mom has been acting strange lately. She wonders if "A" has moved on from Hanna’s mom to hers. In the hallway, Spencer, Aria and Emily discuss Spencer’s admission counselor. Aria mentions the phone number that Tippi sang, and how all they know is that it is in York County. Spencer looks through her college catalogue and notices Cicero College, a college in York County whose area code and phone number prefix match the one that Tippi sang.

After school, Aria asks her mom if anything is wrong. Ella tells her that she has decided not to go to Austria with Zack, and reveals he changed her mind Mike doesn't want her to leave, and tells Aria they can talk more about it later. When Ella is alone in her car, she is attacked by a swarm of bees planted by "A." Aria gets an ominous text from "A" that "this is only the first taste of my venom.”

Aria tells Emily over the phone that Ella was taken to the hospital, but is home now and resting. Aria is now even more adamant that Ella goes to Austria. At home, Aria talks to Mike about Ella going to Europe. She says he is being selfish for trying to keep their mom from leaving. Mike hits back by accusing Aria of only wanting her gone so she can get back together with Ezra. Aria pushes Mike in response to his rude and hurtful comment and runs off.

Hanna doesn't sleep all night and in the morning, calls Aria and tells her that Ashley’s muddy shoes are gone and that her closet is locked.

Aria finds Byron working at home and asks him to tell Ella to go to Austria. When Byron says it is not his place to do that, and that Ella can make her own decisions, Aria tears up and begins to plead with him. She knows it is an unusual request, but believes her mom deserves to be happy (and out of "A's" grasp). Byron meets with Ella at the Brew and tells her that he’s spoken to Mike and that he will no longer stand in the way of Ella leaving for the year. Since they had always wanted to go to Europe and Ella has put her family's happiness above her own, Byron tells her to take the opportunity and go and that he will take care of Aria and Mike while she's away.

At a sorority house, when some drunk girls bump into her, Spencer stumbles upon a secret door to a hidden room. It is completely empty except for a disconnected phone and a radio. She uses the phone to call Aria, who is in the middle of family night, proving that it is indeed the phone that Ali had been calling the summer she went missing. While on the phone with Aria, Spencer notices scratch marks on the walls.

Under The Gun At the Brew, Aria expresses how surprised she was to hear Hanna had been arrested. Spencer agrees, and mentions she thinks Emily has been avoiding her since their fight that night. Aria says that Spencer and Emily need to just apologize to each other and move on. Emily arrives and tells the girls that the cops are testing the gun that Hanna found. She also tells them that Shana has taken her spot on the swim team.

A new employee at the Brew drops a tray, and Aria goes over to help him since he is one of Mike's friends and Emily needs a break. Connor asks Aria if she would help him with his English paper. Aria considers it for a moment, then agrees. Mona storms into the Brew and informs Spencer, Emily and Aria that she has been away because she has been tracking down the missing RV and declares that Toby took it, and Spencer covered for him. The other girls believe Mona is lying, but Spencer admits it. Aria and Emily go back to Emily's house and talk about why Spencer would lie to them and how it is affecting Hanna and her mom. Hanna calls Aria and before she can tell her this development about Spencer and Toby, Hanna tells her that "A" definitely set up her mom.

At her house, Aria helps Connor with his English paper. They are interrupted by Mike, who seems surprised to see Connor there. He leaves without saying much, leading Connor to believe he's mad at him, but Aria knows Mike is still mad at her for encouraging Ella to move away. Connor and Aria finish with the paper. Aria walks him to the door, wishing him luck on his next lacrosse game. Before Connor leaves, he kisses Aria, who pushes him away and tells him she isn’t interested.

At school the next day, Mike storms up to Aria, annoyed that she hooked up with Connor last night. He tells Aria he just hear Connor talking about it in the locker room. Aria marches down the hall, past Mr. Fitz, and straight into the boy’s locker room and confronts Connor in front of his friends. Aria tries to set the record straight - that nothing happened between them last night, but Connor keeps pushing the rumor, and brings up her relationship with Mr. Fitz, calling her a slut and humiliating her in front of his friends. Then Mr. Fitz appears and tells Aria that she shouldn’t be in there. He heard the whole thing. Later, Ezra approaches Aria on the stairs and tells her she can't let a stupid rumor started by a bunch of jerks get to her. Aria points out that it's not just a stupid rumor, there is some truth to it, and tells Ezra he can't be the guy who makes her feel better anymore and leaves.

At home, Aria lies in bed crying. Mike comes in and apologies for not standing up for her at school. He says he should have known that Connor was lying and promises to make it up to her. At the Brew, while a singer performs on state at open mic night at the Brew, Emily offers Aria a choice of pastries - sympathy food to help her get over the whole situation with Connor. Emily selflessly put Connor on garbage duty, which lifts Aria's spirits a bit. Spencer arrives and tells them about what has happened in Ravenswood. They notice Shana on stage, performing a violin solo. As she plays the violin, we see Ezra watching Aria from outside The Brew. Meanwhile, someone in a Rosewood High Sharks jacket smashes Connor’s car, which is parked in the alley behind the Brew. When Connor sees him, the hooded figure runs away.

Crash and Burn, Girl! The girls are over at Hanna's house helping her deal with her mother's arrest. Emily's shoulder is still hurting her, and Spencer is still not ready to reveal what's going on with Toby and "A." Aria is glad Emily and Spencer are talking again. The three of them strategize on how to get Hanna to eat and agree to be there for her for whatever she needs.

The next day, the school is buzzing about Connor's wrecked car. Mike comments to Aria that Connor should have sold the car for scrap and gotten a new one instead driving it to school smashed and damaged. Mike is shocked when Aria seems to be defending Connor, and makes it clear that Connor is a wuss and deserves everything he got. Aria asks Mike where he was while Connor's car was getting smashed. He doesn't quite deny it, but implies he couldn't have been the one who destroyed the car. Mr. Hackett stops Aria on the stairs to ask if she knows anything about Connor's car being vandalized. She covers for Mike by saying he was home videochatting with their mom at the time. He asks if Mike is still taking his medication because he wouldn't want a repeat of his behavior last year. Aria assures him Mike is fine and he lets her go.

At home, Byron asks Aria if she has seen Mike, or if she knows anything about what happened to Connor's car. He thought Mike and Connor were friends and doesn't understand why Connor's father is pushing to have Mike expelled. Aria admits it all started when Connor kissed her and she told him she wasn't interested, so in retaliation, Connor spread a nasty rumor about her at school. Byron asks why anybody would start a rumor about her and Aria is forced to admit there has been talk about her and Ezra. Byron says Connor is the one who should be punished and leaves to find Mike.

The girls get together at Aria's and Aria says that she thinks "A" is setting up her brother. Emily rushes in and tells them to hurry up - tonight, they are breaking into Wilden's apartment. Wilden's apartment is a big mess. Spencer points out that the cops had already been there searching for clues about his murder. Aria hands out gloves so they don't leave any fingerprints behind and they split up to look around. The phone rings and spooks the girls. The girls don't turn up much in their search. They notice there aren't very many personal items or knick knacks around the apartment, though Aria points out Wilden's 'film collection' counts as rather personal. Then the girls spot a box on the floor. They open it and find a bunch of rotten steaks. There's a note inside that says, "Can't wait to see you at our little barbecue. Kisses, A."

The next day, Aria waits for her dad and Mike outside Mr. Hackett's office. Ezra walks by and asks her what's going on. She says Mike is getting railroaded in there and he didn't do it. Ezra apologizes for trying to swoop in and comfort her yesterday since it's not his place to do that anymore. Aria mentions how Mr. Hackett had questioned her about Mike's medication, then Byron comes into the hall and greets Ezra. Ezra offers his help, but Byron declines, and Ezra leaves. Byron says Aria can wait for them at home. Mr. Hackett is about to decide Mike's punishment, when Ezra walks up and pulls him aside to talk. Ezra asks if there were any witnesses or if it is all hearsay on Connor's part. Mr. Hackett says there must be some sort of punishment and Connor's family is not willing to compromise. Ezra brings up Mr. Hackett's inappropriate questioning of Aria about Mike's medication. Mr. Hackett realizes that was the wrong thing to do, but points out that Ezra is treading dangerous water by getting involved in a situation with a family he has such personal history with.

Mike finds Aria at home and mentions it wasn't smart for her to tell the Vice Principal he was videochatting with mom because they could have checked on that. Aria asks what the outcome was and Mike says that Mr. Fitz talked to Mr. Hackett and then Mr. Hackett told Connor's family he had no reason to expel Mike. Mike says if anything like this happens again, he wants to be ready. Aria slips a note under Ezra's door just as he's coming around the corner. She tells him it was a thank you note and she appreciates what he did for her brother. Ezra tells her there isn't anything he wouldn't do for her. Aria doesn't know how to respond and takes off.

The Guilty Girl's Handbook Emily texts Spencer, Aria, and Hanna that they're okay, and also asks about how Hanna's mom is. Spencer, Aria, and Hanna are in Spencer's kitchen, waiting for Spencer's mom to come home with news about Ashley's bail. They talk about how CeCe is probably Red Coat and trying to keep them from finding out for sure. Veronica enters the kitchen and tells them that the judge refused bail and that Ashley will be moved to the state prison in Muncy to await the trial. The girls all go upstairs. Spencer and Aria try to convince Hanna none of this is her fault. They promise Veronica will win the case. Hanna allows Spencer and Aria to go to school without her.

Mike finds Aria at school and informs her that he won't be home tonight because the lacrosse team will be partying after their game whether they win or lose. Aria starts questioning him and he says he just needs to spend time with the guys because they are treating him differently since the thing happened with Connor's car and he's handling it. Aria notices Mike carrying a bag from the Tang Soo Doo studio Jake teaches at. Mike admits to wanting to learn how to defend himself. Aria visits Jake outside his studio to ask if Mike is one his students. Jake says he is and that he's really good. Aria wants to know if Mike has said anything odd, and Jake tells her Mike once said something about his teammates being against him, which causes Aria to become a little more worried about Mike. Jake tells Aria if she ever needs him, he is there for her, no strings attached.

Aria is home alone and spooked by the sound of cars driving by outside, the incident at Emily's house still fresh in her mind. She calls Mike and his teammate picks up. He says Mike's not conscious... yet, and hangs up. Concerned, Aria then calls Jake. Jake goes over to Aria's house. He is there to help Aria figure out where Mike is. Aria remembers hearing arcade sounds when she spoke to Mike's friend, and Jake knows of an arcade near the school they played, so they decide to drive over there, but then Aria's phone rings. It's Mike. He tells her he's fine, his friend was just joking about him being unconscious, and that he's going to stay at his friend Billy's house, much to Aria's dismay. Aria is upset Mike put her through all that tonight, but Jake thinks Mike will be fine, and says he'll keep an eye on him just in case he'll tell her if Mike gets out of control. He also says he's more worried about Aria, and offers to stay. Aria agrees and asks him if he's hungry. Jake and Aria watch TV in her living room. She apologizes for ruining his night, but he says he's happy to be there. They flip through channels until an Insidious 2 ad comes on. They make plans to see the movie next week. Aria nearly says it's a date, but stops herself, remembering that she doesn't feel like she's ready to start dating. But this hints at her interest in Jake. While Aria and Jake are watching TV, her phone beeps, and she seems shocked as Mona has confessed to killing Wilden. Emily, Aria, Spencer, Hanna, Caleb, Veronica, and Jake go to the police station. The four girls and Veronica all look shocked as they see Mona sitting in an interrogation room. Mona smiles at them as the blinds are closed, leaving them all to wonder what Mona is up to.

Into the Deep Aria talks to Spencer on the phone from her porch. Jake is inside the house. He stayed overnight at Aria's house because she didn't feel comfortable staying there alone. He asks if she wants to go out for breakfast, but she says she is meeting Spencer. Jake convinces her to stop by the Brew for a caffeine fix together first. At the Brew, Jake asks if Aria's dad will be back tonight, to make sure she won't be home alone again. She says he is coming back in the afternoon and they made plans to have a family night. Ezra and Maggie are there, too, having a conversation. He steals looks at Aria while Maggie tells him that she got into grad school at the University of Washington in Seattle. Aria gives Jake a goodbye hug while Ezra looks on, displeased, only pulled from the stare when Maggie announces she plans to move there. Ezra expresses his shock and dislike of the idea, as he won't be able to see Malcolm very often if they moved away, but Maggie persistently says that the job is important for her future.

At school, Spencer and Aria discuss Mona between classes. They know Hanna wants to believe she confessed for the right reasons, but Spencer knows Mona can easily twist it around and make it seem like they forced her to do it. Mona could also try to pin Wilden's murder on the girls since she has the photo of them tampering with his car. Aria shows Spencer Emily's birthday gift - a framed photo of Paige and Emily. Then the girls come across Jenna and Shana having a hushed conversation about Alison. Jenna says "they know I'm hiding something," that she should have told the police about Alison, and also that it's "too dangerous not to say anything at this point." Shana asks to give her a little more time to figure out where "she" is. Jenna expresses her anxiety about losing her sight again, and Shana says that she won't leave her side until she takes her back to Philadelphia the next morning.

At Paige's aunt's lake house, Aria and Spencer are helping Paige set up for the party. They discuss what they overheard Jenna talking about and the possibility that Jenna knows Alison is alive. They decide they have to get Jenna alone to find out what she knows. Spencer says that Toby told her Jenna's eye-surgery had a low success rate and unfortunately Jenna is losing her sight again. Paige walks in tells the girls to hurry up because Emily will be there soon. They ask if Paige invited the whole swim team. She says yes, except for Shana, for obvious reasons. Spencer tells Paige to invite Shana, because where Shana goes, Jenna goes, and they need to talk to Jenna. The guests haves arrived at Paige's aunt's lake house for Emily's surprise birthday party. Aria tells Hanna over the phone to give her mom a welcome home hug for her. She hangs up and sees Jake walking in with another girl. The guests hide as Emily arrives at the house. When she walks in to the dark room, she asks Paige why she lied to Dominic, then everyone jumps out and yells 'surprise!' Later, Aria informs Paige that Bridget Wu is trying to make a bong out of her aunt's teapot. Jenna rushes off to deal with it and Emily tells Aria she had no idea Paige was planning a surprise party for her. Aria points out Jenna and bluntly explains that Jenna is losing her vision. Spencer notices Aria stewing in the corner and finds out her attitude stems from the fact Jake brought a leggy-blonde to the party. Aria is clearly jealous of the pair. Spencer says the girl is trying way too hard and that Aria should go talk to Jake, Aria chooses not to break up the "flirt fest" and though she clearly feels otherwise, insists to Spencer that she is not that into Jake. Spencer and Aria corner Jenna and Shana and Spencer asks about Jenna's eyesight. She says she sees everything she needs to see. In an effort to get Jenna alone, they say they are taking a big group photo outside. Shana sees through the request and says they'll go outside when the rest of the guests do. Jake approaches Aria and asks what happened to family movie night. Aria lies as says the party slipped her mind and insists she's not lying even though Jake can tell she is. She asks about the blonde girl he arrived with and Jake says her name is Kim. Aria makes some snarky comments and Jake is confused, asking why she is acting so jealous. Aria denies being jealous because they're not even dating, then her phone rings and she leaves to find Spencer. Jenna finally talks Shana into leaving. Thinking it's her last chance, Aria jumps in and tells Jenna she needs to talk to her alone. She tries to level with her and say regardless of their history, Alison was her best friend and she deserves to know the truth. Jenna refuses to tell her anything, then Paige yells that they're serving cake and all the guests crowd around. Aria and Emily look around for Spencer outside. They see Jake leaving the party and Aria talks to him for a moment. Then Emily screams 'Spencer!' because she sees a body floating face down in the lake. She rushes in and turns the body over to see that it's Jenna, not Spencer. She shouts "she's not breathing!" and to call 911.

Jake accompanies Aria back to her house. She thanks him for coming over and he expresses surprise at how complicated Aria's life is. Aria doesn't try to explain the long history between her and Mona and Jenna, but tells Jake she feels safe when she's around him. She admits to being jealous of him earlier and Jake admits that Kim is just a friend. Aria feels like her life is out of control at the moment and didn't want to drag Jake into it, but he offers to help her navigate for a while and she takes him up on it. They kiss and make up.

The Mirror Has Three Faces The Liars are late for school because they had tried to go see Jenna at the hospital earlier, but were turned away at the visitors desk. Aria yells at them to keep it down so they can sneak back into school, but Spencer sarcastically replies that none of them are going to graduate anyway. Hanna suggests Spencer talk to Shana because if CeCe drowned Jenna, then she must know the reason, but Emily doesn't think Shana is trustworthy and Hanna doesn't trust Jenna so they are back at square one. Hanna decides she's going to hunt down Cece, even if she's been AWOL since Wilden was alive.

Aria and Jake are getting coffee and going over the photos she took of him doing martial arts. He tells her about a regional competition he is participating in tonight in Philly. Aria invites herself along. Aria leaves Jake's tournament supposedly to pick up frozen yogurt, but actually to check out the address Caleb found. Over the phone, Aria tells Spencer to check on Emily then she finds the apartment. Outside the building she sees a woman packing up and moving out, and asks for CeCe The woman responds, "Well if you find her, let me know." The woman at the apartment tells Aria that when CeCe dropped out of UPenn and left for LA, she was supposedly still paying her rent. Aria says she thought she was kicked out and the woman asks how she knows, since she wasn't close with her. Aria says she was a friend of Alison's. The woman says that CeCe referred to Alison's crew as "four other she-devils." She had assumed that the Liars were in on the frat party stunt Ali had pulled three years ago and hated them for it. Outside of Jake's tournament, Aria receives a phone call from a visibly upset Ezra. As she decides whether or not to answer it, Jake tells her his match is in 5 minutes. She says she has to take the call, but then when Jake goes back inside, Aria hesitantly declines the call. After the tournament, sitting outside, Jake apologizes for the tournament running late and not being able to take Aria out for a proper steak dinner. Aria reveals she doesn't eat meat. They banter back and forth about spicy food and Jake's injuries from the match, then make out on the stoop.

Bring Down the Hoe The girls sit at lunch, discussing the crawlspace under the DiLaurentis home. They are sure that Cece has been camping out there. They wonder why CeCe has it out for them and Jenna, unsure what Ali may have told her about their involvement in getting her kicked out of college. Hanna arrives and tells the girls that her mom hasn’t had any luck finding a new lawyer. Lt. Tanner shows up and tells them they are still investigating who drove into Emily's house. She tells them that while they were sorting through the wreckage, they found a muddy shoe that matches the print of the shoes found at Wilden’s crime scene. When she mentions being able to test it to identify the owner, Hanna gets upset and walks away. The girls catch up to her and tell her not to worry, and that "A" probably planted the shoe there because Mona made a false confession. Spencer relays a plan to find out for sure if Cece is back in town and living in the crawlspace, in turn giving Tanner a new suspect to harrass. She tells Hanna to go shopping with Mrs. DiLaurentis while she, Emily and Aria check out the crawlspace. Jake waits for Aria outside after school. He offers her a ride home, which she turns down, and gives her the business card of an attorney he knows to give to Hanna's mom, which she also turns down. Then she invites Jake to the hoedown later that night. Aria is surprised by how easily he said yes.

In the crawlspace, Aria and Emily wait for Spencer to arrive. Emily tells Aria that she should call Ezra, but doesn’t say why. They find a black button that they think might belong to Red Coat before Spencer finally arrives. They hear someone upstairs and when Aria looks through one of the drilled holes in the ceiling, a knitting needle almost stabs her in the eye. Someone is repeated jabbing it through the holes, attempting to stab the girls, or at least make sure they don't see them, then the person upstairs leaves. Because of the incident, wants to move into Spencer’s house. Spencer, who had been upstairs, hears the question and seems not to want Emily to move in. Aria asks who Spencer was talking to upstairs. She says "Toby. Why? What did I miss?" Aria asks, “What did we miss?” Spencer reluctantly tells them that Toby thinks that his mom was murdered, and that he has been getting messages about it from "A."

At the Brew, Aria sees Ezra at another table. He approaches her and tells her that he has been trying to get a hold of her, but before they can have a conversation, Jake arrives. The two awkwardly greet each other and Ezra leaves. Aria is upset about the meeting, but Jake tells her not to sweat it. He gives her a pair of blue cowgirl boots for the dance that night as a gift.

Aria and Jake arrive at the hoedown. Aria and Jake dance, and Ezra stares at Aria. Jake takes notice of this but continues to dance. Jake approaches Ezra and tells him to back off Aria and let her move on. Aria approaches Emily and Emily tells her to go talk to Ezra. She tells her that Maggie is taking away Malcom, and Aria quickly goes to talk to Ezra. Aria talks to Ezra, but Ezra tells her that he shouldn’t be getting her involved in his life. After the hoedown, Aria goes to Ezra’s apartment and asks what happened with Malcom. Ezra says that he doesn’t want to drag her into it, but Aria insists that she isn’t leaving. Outside their door, we see a blonde hooded figure in black listening to their conversation. When she turns around, we see that it is Cece Drake.

Now You See Me, Now You Don't News of Travis’s testimony spreads through Rosewood and is seen by Aria, Emily, Spencer and Hanna in Spencer’s kitchen. It is revealed that the cops want Ashley to be in a lineup for Travis. A package addressed to the four girls is delivered to the house. Inside are Magic 8 balls for each of them, which spell out the phrase: “If she goes free, you’ll hear from me. Kisses —A”. They worry that if Hanna’s mom goes free, CeCe will come after them.

At school, Ezra thanks Aria for stopping by the previous night. Aria says she is glad to be there for him as a friend, leaving Ezra looking disappointed. In the hall, Aria calls Jake and asks him if he wants to go to a poetry reading, but settles on a movie at her house instead. At Hanna's house, the girls receive another package. They open it and find a small white coffin, and inside is a doll that represents Mona. They get a text from A, which threatens that if they don’t find Mona, the cops will think that they killed her. Hanna calls Radley to see if Mona is still there, In the meantime, Caleb stops by and they watch the news. A sketch of a blonde woman resembling CeCe is shown and wanted for questioning about the murder of Wilden. They are now all convinced that CeCe did, in fact, kill Wilden. Off the phone with Radley, Hanna says that Mona is no longer a patient there and it is privileged information on whether she was released or moved elsewhere.

Later, Jake leaves from a movie date at Aria's house. Later, Aria runs into Ezra at The Brew, and they strike up a conversation about one of Aria’s poems about Ali amongst other pieces of literature. Meanwhile, the other liars and their respective lovers are shown. Aria kisses Ezra on the lips but they play it off. Red Coat watches from outside.

The next day, the four girls are gathered at Spencer’s house. None of them have found Mona and they are worried. Another package arrives; an empty black wooden box. However, Spencer opens it a certain way and a saw with a message appears in the box. "Watch me make a girl disappear. Kisses, - A". The girls find a magic show that is taking place in Ravenswood that very day, and they decide that it can’t be a coincidence. They head out for Ravenswood.

In Ravenswood, the girls find a sign leading them to Charlemagne’s Magic Show, an outdoor magic show hosted by a strange mime. The mime picks Aria for a disappearing act and after much hesitation, she agrees. The trick goes well, but afterwards, they notice that Emily is missing. They get a text from A that reads “leger de main”, which means “sleight of hand”. The girls realize that while they were distracted, A kidnapped Emily. They call Emily’s cell, and she is awoken by the ringing, in a box. She tells the girls that she has no idea where she is and she begins to panic when she hears a saw coming for her. The girls turn and see Red Coat running away from them, turning a street corner. The girls chase her into an old warehouse, and see a wooden coffin chained up on a conveyor belt, headed for an electric wood cutting saw. The girls race to the coffin and try to open it. They try to cut the chains, but it seems too late until Red Coat presses a button and stops the machine. The girls turn and see her leave the building, but there is another Red Coat heading up the stairs. The girls realize that there are two Red Coats, and while Hanna opens the coffin and gets Emily out, Aria chases one Red Coat while Spencer pursues the other. Aria chases the Red Coat that went up the stairs. On the upper floor of the warehouse, Aria’s Red Coat becomes cornered by Aria and a small fight ensues. Aria kicks her in the face, which dislodges her Ali mask to reveal CeCe's face. “Give it up, CeCe!” Aria screams, but CeCe kicks Aria and climbs onto a rope hanging from the ceiling, before the rope snaps. Aria tries to save her, but her coat sleeve tears and CeCe falls to the floor. Spencer returns to the warehouse, breathless, and Aria gets downstairs. They are unsure if CeCe is unconscious or dead. Aria feels responsible for CeCe’s fall. The girls turn away from CeCe to console Aria, who wants to call the police. However, CeCe is still alive, and when the girls turn back, she's gone. Spencer rushes the girls out of the warehouse quickly, saying that she needs to show them something. She says that the Red Coat she chased might have been Ali because she made sure Spencer followed her. They arrive at the apartment building Red Coat brought Spencer to. They go up to the apartment and find the entire apartment filled with blown-up pictures of Alison— portraits, candid shots and more. In one painting, a small hole is cut out, and we see that someone is watching them. There are whiteboards showing a timeline of each girl’s lives since the A text messages began, reaching all the way back to Ali’s funeral. The girls walk around the apartment and find a large computer system with multiple screens, all monitoring the police, the streets, and the girls’ alarm systems. They now know how A has been keeping tabs on all of them. The girls try to hack A’s computer system. They call Caleb for help, who says that he will get on the next bus to Ravenswood. Spencer finds A’s bank account. According to the document, CeCe is on the payroll. The girls wonder if A paid CeCe to dress up as Red Coat to lead the girls away from Ali. Meanwhile, the person behind the painting continues to watch them.

Hanna opens a wardrobe and sees multiple men’s suits and shoes. Emily picks up what appears to be a large scrapbook, filled with pictures of Ali wearing the same outfit in each one. Hanna says she remembered buying the shirt with Ali, and she had said that she'd needed it for a date that night with an older guy. Spencer guesses that it was Wren, but Aria doesn't think so, noticing that A has been keeping tabs on Wren, too. The girls wonder if Board Shorts took these photos, and if that is who CeCe is working for. Meanwhile, Aria wonders off to another whiteboard, and sees a complete timeline for Ali. While Aria examines it, the girls find a letter to Board Shorts that reveals that Ali met him in Rosewood and she lied about her age — she had claimed to be eighteen, and she was planning on taking him to Cape May. Aria calls the girls over to Ali’s timeline, and says that A hasn’t only been following the girls, but also Ali, too. He has pinned Ali to the fire at the lodge and has been following her trail to Ravenswood. The girls stare at it in shock. They see a picture on the timeline of a gas mask costume, and they also see a flier for a World War I-themed celebration of Ravenswood later that night. On the flier, written in red, is a note that says: Tonight, Alison, 11 PM. The girls realize that Board Shorts thinks Ali is going to be at the celebration. They walk out of the building. Night has fallen, and the celebration will be starting soon. They are approached by Mrs. Grunwald, who tells them that it is dangerous for them to go chasing after Ali. Spencer says that she thought she never knew Ali, but Grunwald says that she lied to protect Ali. When the girls ask for confirmation that Ali is still alive, Mrs. Grunwald says, “Haven’t you all felt it? She was never really gone.” She says she hasn’t seen Ali since that night, and says she probably won’t until she finds someone that she can trust. The girls say that Ali can trust them and she knows that, but Mrs. Grunwald says she isn’t sure about that.

Grave New World Dressed in their costumes, Aria, Hanna, Emily and Spencer make their way into the graveyard party. Emily is hesitant to continue on—she isn’t sure she is ready to see Alison, but Aria says that they already have. They all walk through the graveyard’s gates. Ezra calls Aria to ask where she is and to be careful—and we see that he is at the graveyard, too, wearing a gas mask costume. at the party, the four girls are gathered in the tent, wondering why Ali would go to a party like this. They spot a strange person dressed in a gas mask costume, similar to the one they found in A’s lair. He is with a girl as well. As Spencer spies on him, Aria and Emily follow the girl as she walks out of the tent but Emily is stopped by Mrs. Grunwald. Alone, Aria follows the girl and helps her out of an empty grave, which she had fallen into. Aria questions if she was pushed by the man she was with earlier, but she says that is her cousin and that he wasn’t behind this. Her cousin arrives, tells her that the graveyard isn’t safe and the leave. Emily and Spencer meet up and briefly look for Hanna and Aria, but they all find each other.

As they walk through the graveyard, they spot Red Coat running into a tomb. They all quickly chase after her, but once they get there, she is gone. They spot an area that has no leaves, so they push away a statue, which reveals a hidden pathway of tunnels down under the graveyard. They walk down into them, and then the secret door shuts, trapping them in the tunnels. Panicked, they make their way through the tunnels, one of which is very windy. They all hold hands and stand against the wall, but Hanna gets separated from the group. Spencer, Aria and Emily make their way into the house from the tunnels, looking for Hanna. They hear what they think is Alison talking, and Spencer runs off to look for her, and Aria and Emily lose her. Aria and Emily find Spencer in the greenhouse and wake her up, and they quickly run out of the room, following Ali’s voice. They follow it into a room, and see that it wasn’t Ali’s voice at all, but just a recording. Mrs. Grunwald walks in and tells them that they shouldn’t be in there. The girls say that they think they followed Alison into the house, and Mrs. Grunwald reveals that the tape was a recording of one of Ali’s sessions with her. Six months before, the tapes were stolen, and Mrs. Grunwald gets a bad feeling—that Emily, Aria, or Spencer has touched the one Alison fears the most. They leave the house and return to their car, and they find that their tires have been slashed.

Hanna rejoins the girls just as Ezra arrives and offers them all a ride home. They drive back to Rosewood and get out of the car. Once Ezra has driven away, they spot Red Coat staring at them in the woods. She runs away, and they chase her back to Spencer’s barn, where she stops and pulls down her hood. She turns around, and it is Alison, alive and well. She looks nervous, and she greets them with shaky “Did you miss me?” The girls are all overcome with shock and joy, and Aria says that it really was her that lead them to the lair and around Ravenswood. Ali looks back into the woods and sees a light, and says that she doesn’t have much time and that it isn’t safe for her to be in Rosewood. They beg her not to leave again, and Ali says that she wants to come home, but she needs their help. Spencer asks who she is afraid of, but all Ali does is tell Hanna to remember what she told her in the hospital after she was hit by the car. They hear someone approaching, and Ali fearfully puts a finger to her lips. The girls turn. Ezra walks into the backyard, supposedly to give Aria back her cell phone. When the girls turn back around, Ali has run off again.

Who's In The Box? After just encountering Alison moments before, the four girls now sit in Spencer’s room, visibly shaken. They are all confused and wonder where Ali has been hiding all of this time, and even question if she is A. No matter what, they resolve to try and make Rosewood a safer place for Ali to return to.

Two weeks later, they travel to the mausoleum where Ali’s body was believed to have been buried, and Hanna mentions that Caleb checked out A’s lair and it was emptied out. Spencer wonders if Ali reached out to anyone else, such as Jason. Hanna says that she has a theory: whoever was buried in Ali’s place still died, and she had to have been placed under the gazebo before it was filled with cement. This means that a girl must have gone missing around the same time that Ali did, and if they find out who, they can connect her to someone they know and solve the case. The girls realize that the body was identified as Ali because it was important that everyone believed that she was dead.

The next day, at school, Emily tells Aria and Spencer about how Jason is on a "cross-country trip", and Spencer expresses that someone needs to know where Jason is. All three girls are nervous because things have been quiet ever since they saw Ali outside Spencer’s barn. Later, Ezra apologizes to Aria for getting her involved with Malcom, and admits that he did it so that he could get closer to her again. He says that his time at Rosewood High is almost up, and that he hopes that once she has graduated that he may prove to her that he is the person she thinks he is.

At the Brew, Hanna tells Emily and Aria that she made an appointment with Tina, a friend of Sara Harvey’s, and that she doesn’t want to meet up with her alone. Emily says that she doesn’t want to go, and is mad that Ali never reached out to any of them or told them that she was alive. Hanna says that no matter what Ali has been up to, they need to bring her back to find out what has been going on.

Later, Aria calls Ezra and asks to pick her up, and they drive off. Ezra brings Aria to a small cottage in the woods, and explains that it belongs to a friend of his, but he watches over the place. Aria tells Ezra that she is seeing someone else, and Ezra gives her a key to the cottage, saying that it could be their secret. The two kiss. Later, Aria gazes outside while Ezra looks at a trapdoor in the floor.

The next day, the four girls meet once again at the mausoleum and pay their respects to whoever is buried in Ali’s grave. Hanna then pulls out Ali’s diary, and says that she was hesitant to show the others sooner because of all the stories in there about them.

Love ShAck, Baby The girls look through Ali’s diary, and quickly realize that the stories she wrote are shrouded in pseudonyms and half-truths. Hanna is still hesitant about showing the girls the journal; because of this, Spencer and Emily lash out at her, but Aria interrupts, saying that the important thing is that they have the diary now. They decide to read the stories and weed out the ones about them, and whatever is left over they’ll investigate.

At school, Aria leaves a pen on Ezra’s desk, and Spencer openly tells her is she is still in love with him. They join Emily, who has come up with a color coding system to label the stories in Ali’s journal. Hanna arrives and asks how far they have gotten with the journal, clearly nervous. She also makes sure that Spencer takes the journal next, instead of Aria. Aria recognizes a poem has Ali has written, Ali is writing about—the Busy Bee Inn in Killingworth, and they wonder if that is where Ali is hiding. They all agree to take a ride out there. Meanwhile, Ezra watches them from a distance. Aria visits Ezra in his class, who is listing to something. He stops when she comes in, and Aria tells him that they can’t meet up tonight because she has to help Hanna with her break up. Ezra questions where they’ll be going, but Aria makes something up. After she leaves, Ezra continues to listen to a recording of Ali, who says she needs a place to hide and be someone else.

That night, the four girls leave Rosewood for Killingworth. In the car, Aria looks through the book as Emily follows her car’s GPS navigation to the Inn. Aria finds a story called “The Cradle Robber”. When Aria mentions this, Hanna quickly turns up the radio, but the rest stop her. “The Cradle Robber” is about someone who had an affair with a younger person, and the girls wonder if it is about Ali. Emily’s car stalls and Aria notices that her car’s GPS is different than Aria’s phone. The girls get outside and check Emily’s engine, but they are unsure what to do. Hanna texts Travis, who says that he won’t be able to meet them for another two hours. Aria realizes that Ezra’s cabin is not far from where they are stranded; she suggests she waits there, but tells the others that the cabin belongs to her uncle. As they walk to the cabin, the girls lose cell service. The girls arrive at the cabin, and while Hanna is in the bathroom, Spencer says that she thinks Hanna is keeping something from them. Outside, a hooded figure is seen stalking around the cabin. Hanna comes out of the bathroom and tells them that “The Cradle Robber” is about her and Mike, Aria’s little brother. Aria tells Hanna that although she would think it’s weird, she wouldn’t have stopped being Hanna’s friend, and says that Mike used to have a huge crush on her. While Hanna and Emily leave to get cell service to call Travis, Spencer and Aria go into the laundry room to get blankets, the door shuts behind them. Aria looks through the keyhole and sees a hooded figure walking around. They open a window and scream outside for help, and Hanna and Emily both hear them. They break a window to get into the cabin since the front door was locked. They open the door and let Spencer and Aria out, but discover that Ali’s journal is gone. Travis then arrives to bring them all home.

At Aria’s, she talks to Ezra over the phone, and we see Ezra wearing his black outfit and black baseball hat at a gas station. Aria then lies to Emily and says that she was talking to Jake. Emily shows Aria the note that Ali seemingly left for her, and tells her about the “dream” she had about Ali visiting her. A then sends the girls a text of the Busy Bee Inn, thanking them for the tip. The realize that they basically gave Ali to A due to all of the post-its and notes from the journal.

Close Encounters The Liars immediately follow up on their lead by taking a trip to the Busy Bee Inn, the place where Aria's family visited frequently in the past. Upon their arrival, they are met with a mess. Alison's clothes were laying all over the place, and a window had been smashed. The Liars begin to theorize what may have made Alison leave the Busy Bee Inn. Did A finally get to Alison? Before they could come up with more theories, the door slowly closed, revealing a message from A: YOU'RE TOO LATE! -A

The next day, at Ezra's apartment, Aria looks like she's lost in space, and Ezra noticed this. They start discussing Hanna and her break up, then topic changes to Ezra going to Philly to hang out with "an old college buddy". Ezra suggests he and Aria can have a dinner date reschedule at his cabin when a text message from Jake is sent to Aria. Aria informs Ezra she's going to cut all ties from Jake because Ezra was and will always be "The One" for her. Aria goes to see Jake, and immediately notices a huge gash above Jakes eye. He laughs it off and kisses Aria. Seeing Jakes punching bag, Aria suggests that maybe it was time for him to get a new one, but Jake tells her he keeps it because it supposedly gives him good luck. He also tells Aria that he has qualified for the National Championship. Jake asks Aria if she wants to go out to eat, she says yes, but then quickly changes her mind telling Jake she needed to talk to him about something. When Aria begins to break up with Jake, he immediately realizes that Aria had gotten back with Ezra. Aria tells Jake that she and Ezra has so much history with each other and Ezra was the one for her, but she offered to just be friends with Jake. But Jake tells Aria he's going to need a lot more time to think about their friendship.

The girls are talking about what Emily and Shana had been talking about earlier that day. Emily tells her friends that Shana confirmed Alison really did save Emily from the locked up barn in Over My Dead Body. Spencer asks Emily what she and Alison talked about outside the barn, but Emily refuses to tell them saying "I want to keep that between us.". They begin to theorize about Shana and Alison's relationship, still believing that Shana could just be one of A's minions.

Aria enters her house to find a box waiting for her on the table. Opening it, she finds a card and another box with a bow on it from Jake. Inside the box was piece of jewelry with a red stone and her named etched into the silver piece. Aria stops by at Jakes work to give back to jewelry he bought for her. After some akward one sided conversation, Aria turns to leave, but Jake stops her saying, "You know I still care for you, right?"Jake reveals to Aria that he witnessed Ezra going off on the unknown blonde woman in her car outside The Grille. Aria refuses to believe it because Ezra told her he'd be in Philly all day. Jake shocks Aria by telling her he always thought Ezra was the one Aria was so afraid of. Before leaving, Jake warns Aria to just keep her eyes open.

At Ezra's, Aria was reading a magazine when Ezra walked into the door. She asks if he had fun with Curtis and Ezra lies telling her he had a great time with his friend. Aria finally confronts Ezra by telling him Jake saw him outside the Grille yelling at a woman. Ezra breaks down and tells her he went to see Maggie and his lawyer so he could get custody rights for Malcom. Aria is confused on why Ezra would keep that from her and he states it's because Maggie almost ruined their relationship once and he didn't want Aria to get upset. Aria tells Ezra that she wishes he'd be more honest with him because she chose him. They reconcile and Aria and Ezra continue their date and eventually kiss.

Bite Your Tongue Aria and Emily returns from a movie. Aria is seen commenting on how she missed half the movie because the dude in front of them was making sales call and that if Spencer was there she would have pegged the dude with her jelly beans. Emily gets a little annoyed to hear Spencer’s name. Aria tells Emily that she was sorry but Emily should not keep holding on to the grudge she felt. According to Aria, Spencer was “just trying to protect” Emily. But Emily thinks that Spencer was trying to control the situation like she always does and she did a mistake by trusting Spencer. They are at Aria’s front door when they hear loud music coming from inside the house. They go in and find that Mike is having a party. Aria orders Mike to get all the people out in ten minutes. She and Emily go upstairs. Aria and Emily finds Mona coming out of Aria’s bedroom. When Mona is asked what she is up to, she says that she was invited by Mike. Before leaving, Mona comments on Aria’s wallpaper and zips her bag.

The next morning, Aria asks Mike about Mona. He tells her that they met in a discussion group in the counseling center, and that they have a lot of friends in common. Aria tells Mike that she is not cool with Mona and him being friends and that she is a very dangerous person. She also tells Mike that Mona caused their parents to split up by sending Ella a letter about Meredith. Mike simply shoves her off by saying that if she can forgive her dad why can’t she forgive Mona.

At school, Aria catches Mike and Mona talking and laughing in the courtyard. After they part ways, Aria stops Mona and inquires her about her true intentions. Mona tells her that Jesse, the new guidance counselor of the school patched up Mona and Mike after Mona was thrown out of the “inner circle” of the Liars again after the charges against Ashley Marin were dropped. Before leaving Mona asks Aria to suck up the fact that she is hanging out with a different group.

Aria goes to have a chat with Jesse about Mike. She tells Jesse that her brother has befriended a certain individual who is bad news. Jesse guesses that Aria is talking about Mona. She tells him that it will be very helpful if Jesse did not encourage them being together anymore. Jesse thinks Aria is angry with Mona and asks her to join the counsel group. Aria denies him by saying that she is concerned. Jesse explains to her about how two people bond when they find common ground. Aria then leaves.

The next morning, Aria comes out of The Brew and sees Maggie coming out of her car. She goes over and tells her that it was not good of her to come to Rosewood without Malcolm as Ezra really wanted to see him. Maggie tells Aria that it is none of her business but Aria does not stop lecturing her about how she lied and screwed Ezra’s life and also blackmailed his family to pay her. Maggie becomes irritated and tells Aria that coming from her, the lecture does not affect her as Aria sleeps with Ezra to maintain her grades. Maggie starts walking but Aria grabs her hands to stop her, dropping the box in Maggie’s hand. Maggie tells Aria to leave her alone. Aria and Emily are talking about the incident with Maggie on the way to school. Aria thinks that Maggie will never let Ezra see Malcolm anymore. Emily assures her by saying that she was just acting as Ezra’s friend and so he is not going to be mad at her. Aria asks Emily to cover for her in Ezra’s class and that’s when they catch Mike and Mona kissing Aria leaves.

Later, Aria is at the Brew and she leaves Ezra a message apologizing about the interaction with Maggie. Jesse walks in. She tells him she admits she has some things to work through but doesn't want to join the group. She tells him she's worried about Mike.

After Emily's father has a heart attack, Emily is at Aria's who picked her up from the hospital. Aria assures her that her dad is in great hands. But Emily is worried that 'A' might harm him. Spencer arrives at Aria's house after receiving a text from Aria. Spencer asks Emily to not send her away. They share a hug. Hanna walks in. She explains to the others about what happened at the dentist and she thinks that she was treated by 'A'. Her lips were still half-frozen according to her. The three of them looks inside Hanna's mouth and Spencer pulls out a very small piece of paper from inside her mouth. It reads: "I told you. Dead girls can't smile. Stop looking. -A"

Hot for Teacher The Liars walk into the Brew as Shana finishes her conversation with Alison, and they discuss whether they should trust her now that they know she is working with Ali. Emily thinks so, but Hanna and Aria disagree. Emily tells them her dad’s chest pains were caused from anemia, not a heart attack, and disagrees when Hanna says Shana was probably the one who tried to attack Emily at the school. Spencer suggests it could’ve been someone from the crew working on Ezra’s play. After A’s message at the dentist, Hanna thinks that for safety’s sake they should wait for Ali to find them instead of looking for her, and the others promise not to.

Ezra asks Aria to stay at his cabin with him for the weekend. When she says she needs to stay with Mike, Ezra says he can stay at a friend’s house, and he tells her it wouldn’t be possible to go check on him at any point. He continues to pressure her, and she tells him she’ll figure out a way to be there.

At school Aria is surprised to find out Hanna and Holbrook occasionally talk. Hanna thinks Spencer is lying to them and wants them to hang out with her over the weekend, but Aria lies to Hanna, saying she is visiting her father in Syracuse. Later, Aria visits the guidance counselor, Jesse, and asks to talk. Aria, who is still at school, tells Jesse she’s been lying to everyone and doesn’t know what to do anymore. After he asks why she thought her friends wouldn’t approve of her getting back with her boyfriend, she suddenly makes up an excuse and leaves.

At Ezra’s cabin on Saturday morning, Aria tells him that she wants to go home because she’s tired of lying to everyone. Ezra tells her that her feeling torn between her friends and him may not be a bad thing because it might mean they’re growing closer, not just that she and are friends are growing apart. He tells her, “if what we have is going to last, you have to start thinking of me as the person you are closest to, the person you want to share everything with, and I have to that with you,” then he tells her he didn’t mean to put any pressure on her with starting up the relationship again so quickly. She decides to stay at the cabin with him because she wants to make it work. Later, Ezra is cooking and says he doesn't have chickpeas, so Aria offers to go get some even though the store is an hour away. As soon as she leaves, we see a can of chickpeas in his cabinet, and he goes through the trapdoor into his basement. The contents of the his lair in Ravenswood are in there, including the tri-monitor survellience computer. On the computer he scans through pictures of all of Shana and the liars' activities that we've seen in the episode so far. After some time, while Aria iEzra is sitting in his car with a netbook and his black baseball hat, scanning through videos and images. Apparently he has multiple video cameras set up in his cabin, where we see Aria asleep in bed. Aria wakes up and goes looking for Ezra, and he startles her from behind. He says he was up late reading and forgot to lock the back door. He tells her she was right about their relationship not working if they don't tell the truth. He acts nervous and tells her he's glad she stayed.

Shadow Play Aria and Ezra are in the car, returning from Ezra's cabin. She tells him about a story she's working on and they talk about heroes and villains and how heroes do not always win.

In Spencer's dream, as Spencer, Emily and Hanna are talking about the likelihood that Aria is probably still with Ezra, Aria arrives and the girls ask about her trip. Spencer asks her if she went to the Erie Canal Museum and Aria says that she couldn’t as it was closed. Aria asks what she missed and Spencer says nothing much. Aria leaves as the bell rings. When Mona calls Spencer telling her there's a "blonde package waiting for you" at Ezra's apartment, Spencer rushes there. He says he's back with Aria, to which Spencer warns him to stay away. He thinks they haven't told Aria about him because they aren't sure and tells Spencer she's in over her head.Later, Aria and Paige have a conversation about an old camera. Paige tells Aria about going on a canoe trip with Emily. Aria tells Paige about the time she was like a tom boy and how she eventually lost interest. Aria tells Ezra she wants to tell her friends about their relationship. He tells her that Alison is alive. Aria tells Spencer she's seeing Ezra again. She says she loves him, but seems conflicted about how things are going. Spencer is about to tell her about Ezra but Hanna interrupts to say she's found Alison. The girls go the place where the message from Alison originated and find her. She tells them to "get the hell out" and rips into Spencer for bossing everybody around. Spencer responds by charging her with trying to set them up. Alison asks Aria "has she told you?" just before a bullet omes through the window. Everybody scatters. Downstairs they hear Ezra's voice. He says "I don't know what they told you but it's not true." Nobody will tell Aria what is going on and she goes to him. When she gets there it is Toby, who says he knocked out Ezra. They get in a car and speed off. In the car Aria asks Spencer why Toby hit Ezra. Nobody has the courage to say anything. Toby asks Spencer about the Alison's diary and they argue. A light appears in the front window of the car causing Spencer to snap back to reality.

The girls decide to tell Aria about their suspicions that Ezra ia 'A' and go to Aria's place. The episode ends with them looking through the window and seeing Ezra and Aria kissing.

Free Fall At school, Ezra tells Aria that Spencer has a drug problem and that she's taking amphetamines. During lunch, Aria finds Hanna and Emily and asks her why they are ignoring her and they rebuff her. She then tells them about Spencer's drug problem, who are concerned for Spencer. Later, at Spencer's, they confront Spencer about it. Spencer admits to taking drugs but says she's not crazy. The confrontation gets heated and to protect herself, Spencer reveals to Aria that Ezra is A. She's sure that the only reason Ezra revealed her addiction to Aria was to make her seem crazy so that Aria and the others won't believe her when she tell them he's 'A'. But Aria does not trust her because of her addiction. Even Hanna and Emily starts to doubt Spencer, thinking her theories about Ezra are fake.

Aria is at Ezra's Apartment where Aria is telling him about Spencer's crazy behavior when the liars confronted her on her drug addiction. Ezra wants to tell her parents but Aria is convinced that Spencer is strong enough to get her self out of her situation. Ezra accidentally let slip that Spencer broke down and got sent to Radley after she saw Toby' s helmet and tattoo on a dead body. Aria asks him how he knew that considering it wasn't on the police report, Ezra claims that Aria must have told him, she reluctantly agrees but still seems uncertain.

Aria, still doubtful about Ezra, goes to investigate his cabin in the woods. She finds the trapdoor, pulls it up, and goes down to find what used to be Ezra's lair, empty. Upstairs, she finds a suspicious-looking book in the shelf and opens it to find pages upon pages of information about Alison. She is still reading the draft, when she hears Ezra's car pull up outside. Scared, Aria grabs the pages and escapes out the window but she forgets her keys. Ezra realizes Aria was here because he finds her keys. Aria then realizes she doesn't have them so she decides to run into the woods. Ezra runs after her but is unable to find her. She runs to a nearby ski-lift and climbs into it just as it starts moving. Just as she is about to shut the gate, Ezra climbs in. He explains that he was dating Alison during his college years and he started writing a book on her. He says that after Alison "died", he wanted to write a crime novel about it. He admits that he knew the girls before they knew him and he had originally dated Aria for research. He stopped writing the book when he fell for her and they got serious. After Aria broke up with him because of Maggie and Malcolm, he started his research back up again and that's how he knew Alison was still alive. Aria begins crying and he says that he's never lied about the way he feels about her. He offers to burn the papers and she says she wants to read it all to see what was worth destroying everything they had for. Ezra tries to take the papers from her but they fall to the ground below.

Aria arrives home to find Mona and Mike on a date. Mona asks Aria if everything is okay or not but she goes straight to her room without replying. Mona then looks guilty and possibly sorry for Aria. Aria is then shown to be lying on her bed, crying. After noticing a poetry book she was given to by Ezra, she picks it up and throws it with huge force.

She's Come Undone The Liars sit in Aria's living room discussing the book that Ezra is writing about Alison's disappearance. They come to the conclusion that Ezra must be Board Shorts and Aria tells the girls Ezra believes one of them tried to kill Alison. Emily still believes he could be "A", but Aria states that Ezra was purely using them as research for his book. Emily questions why Ezra never did anything to protect Aria from "A" and Aria tells her that Ezra never really loved her.

The next day, Aria lies on her bed and has a flashback to Pilot when she first met Ezra. Aria then throws up, sickened at the fact Ezra knew who she was already. At school, Aria storms in and goes to Ezra's classroom but learns he has taken time off for a 'family emergency'. Aria calls him a liar and a coward and lashes out at the girls before Emily takes her home. Aria shows up at Ezra's apartment and yells at him to let her in, but she finds it empty. She finds boxes in his wardrobe containing all the information from his Ravenswood Lair, and finds files on her and each of the girls. Inside are photos of Aria before she even met Ezra and surveillance photos she did not even know had been taken. She finds Mrs. Grunwald's missing tapes and plays them, revealing Alison thanking Mrs. Grunwald for pulling her out of the ground on the night of her disappearance. An emotional Aria finds his journal, containing many of the girls secrets and facts about Alison, such as Byron's affair and the fact Alison knew about it, The Jenna Thing and other notes such as Jason being a possible suspect in Alison's disappearance and Caleb working for Jenna. When Ezra makes a comment stating that Aria doesn't suspect anything regarding him she begins to trash his apartment, throwing his papers around the room and destroying his furniture. She also smashes his college degree and a photo of him and Aria together. Aria looks around his apartment, realizing the damage she has done. Spencer, Hanna and Emily arrive at Ezra's and find Aria sitting in the middle of his trashed apartment. The girls support her and take her home.

At Aria's house, Aria burns pages of Ezra's journal with Hanna, hoping it will help her feel better. When it does not, Aria starts to question how she did not realize what Ezra was doing. Hanna tries to be supportive, but Aria feels guilty for telling Ezra the girls' secrets. Hanna makes sure Aria will be okay and then leaves to go get food for the two of them from The Brew. Aria looks through more of Ezra's journal and finds a letter to a publishing agency about the publication of the book and his progress so far. Aria calls the agency and lies, telling that she is a colleague of his, throwing him a surprise party to celebrate the publication of his book, to try and get a publication date for the book, but the woman on the other end of the phone reveals it has not been set yet and that Ezra is currently with the agency discussing the book. Aria hangs up, shocked that he is still going ahead with the novel. Hanna drives home from The Brew but finds Aria going to Principal Hackett's house to tell him everything about her and Ezra's relationship. Hanna tries to persuade Aria not to as Ezra will go to jail, but Aria accuses her of taking Ezra's side. Hanna denies and states she wants Aria to think it through because it will hurt her and her family if the relationship is exposed. Aria realises the consequences and decides not to tell the Principal and goes home, telling Hanna she does not want her help.

Emily goes to Aria's where she is packing to leave Rosewood. She is going to Syracuse. Emily tries to stop her but Aria tells her to get out of her way as she does not want help.

Cover For Me At the beginning of the episode, Aria is partying at a frat house, pounding drinks, and making out with a random guy. The next day, Emily calls Aria to check on her. Aria is sitting in a park hung over, at a college campus. She tells Emily that she is in Syracuse for a campus tour. She runs into the guy she was making out with last night at the party, Riley and hangs up on Emily. Riley invites Aria to ditch the tour and get breakfast with him, she accepts his invite. Later, in Aria's hotel room, she is in bed with Riley. She wakes up and realizes it is in the afternoon and they have missed all of the campus tours. They decide to head back to bed.

The next day, Aria and Riley head out to a pond, and sit on the dock chatting and getting to know each other. He confesses to her that he doesn’t want to go to Syracuse. He wants to go to Berkeley School of Music. His parents and siblings are all Syracuse alums and so his parents aren't keen on the idea of music school. Aria admits to him that “some jerk just broke her heart,” so she came to Syracuse to disappear for a little bit. Later, Riley stops by Aria's hotel room and says he is leaving the campus tour a day early as he wants to go home and talk to his parents about Berkeley. Aria kisses him good-bye and tells him to look her up if he is ever in Rosewood.

After the college visit, Aria drops by Ezra's place. Aria tells Ezra he needs to leave town "for good." She doesn't want to ever see or hear from him again. Ezra asks Aria to read his manuscript. He says he thinks there are things that could help her. He tells her when he was in New York he returned the publisher's advance. But it's too little too late for Aria to go back to him again. Aria reads the manuscript after reaching home.

Hanna, Spencer, and Emily are sitting in Emily’s room trying to make sense of the Ali note that was left in the cop car. Aria barges in and says she read Ezra’s manuscript and there was something that she wanted them to know. Aria announces that Ezra thinks that Jessica DiLaurentis is 'A'. Emily and Hanna don’t buy it, why would Mrs. DiLaurentis want them to stop trying to bring Alison home. Spencer admits that Mrs. DiLaurentis thinks that she tried to kill Alison. Spencer confesses that she was drinking and taking pills that night and she thinks she may have went after Alison but the girls don't think Spencer could have done anything to Alison.

Aria heads home and finds Mike on the couch. She apologizes for what happened between him and Mona, and he believes her when she tells him that she didn’t try to break them up.

Unbridled The girls are at the Brew talking about Paige exposing Ali to the police. Spencer is worried she'll be questioned when they discover the body isn't Alison's, as they also suspect Alison’s own mother to be ‘A’ and behind Spencer being a suspect. Aria and Emily think that Mrs. DiLaurentis cannot be ‘A’ as ‘A’ knows Ali is alive. But Spencer’s theory is that Jessica is trying to send Spencer behind bars, so Ali would be safe to come back to Rosewood again. At Aria's, Aria is on the phone with her mom. Ella is confronting Aria about her getting wasted in her hotel room at Syracuse. Ella asks her if it has anything to do with Ezra resigning from Rosewood. Aria tells her it’s hard to talk about all this stuff and Ella ask her if it would be any easier if she was at the foot of her bed. Ella opens the door and walks in, Aria runs to her and throws her arms around her.

The next day, at school, Aria tells Hanna her mom is asking about Ezra. Hanna doesn't think she should share too much, with which Aria is quick to agree with.

Ella is at home with Aria discussing Jessica's bridal event. Ella ask Aria to be her date but Aria declines. Ella wants to know if a bridal show brings up other issues. Ella’s phone rings for the second time and she ignores it. Aria ask her if it’s Zach calling her. Ella’s tells her it is. Aria tells her to go ahead and talk to him. Ella answers the next call which upsets Aria. Ella comes in from talking to Zach and Aria rips into her for leaving her and Mike to go to Vienna. Ella points out it was Aria who pushed her to go. Aria is not about to let her mom get the upper hand and tells her she can send her a “I told you so” card when she gets back to Vienna and storms off.

At the Brew, the girls talk about who might be in Alison's grave. Spencer thinks the person who went after Alison could still be out there. Hanna shows up and tells them sbout the clothes her mother found in the bag in Alison's room the other day. They suspect that Jessica knows her daughter is still alive. She wants them to volunteer as models at the charity event, which is at the DiLaurentis home to find out more. Holbrook walks by and mentions there could be a lot of questions for them in the upcoming days.

After the bridal show, Ella goes backstage and tells Aria when she saw her on stage it took her breath away. Ella tells Aria that the pain and heartbreak eventually go away. Ella admits to Aria that Zack proposed and shows her the ring that Zack gave her. Aria is very happy for Ella and gives her a hug.

Aria goes into Alison's room just as Emily's phone rings. It's Alison, who tells them not to talk to her mother. She says they need to come see her. Downstairs the girls realize Spencer is missing. She walks in crying and tells them about chasing down somebody she thought was Alison in the woods. She takes the corsette off of her dress and they find finger bones inside. There is a message sown inside, asking "What will you do when the rest of me comes out of the grave?"

The girls arrive at the address Alison gave them. They move around and look for Ali. They find a locked door and think that Ali's in there. Spencer calls out for her. Suddenly they hear a noise and turn around. Spencer asks: "What are you doing here?"

A is for Answers The girls have been brought to an apartment by Noel. He leaves and Alison walks in. The girls share quick hugs.The girls ask her why she trusts Noel and Ali tells them that he has secrets too. They tell her they think her mother is A and she doesn't look shocked. She tells the girls she's ready to tell them everything and if they can't figure things out that night she's going to disappear again and this time for it will be good. Alison flashes back to being with Ian at Hilton Head the morning of the day she supposedly died, when Melissa arrives and confronts him. While Melissa and Ian argue, Ian tells Melissa that Alison is just a fling and means nothing to him and that he loves Melissa. Hearing this, Alison copies Ian’s hard drive where she finds a video of Jenna and Toby’s sexual relationship. Ian and Melissa gets back together and when Ian goes back to the room, Ali is gone. Ali uses the video to intimidate Jenna into stop blackmailing her if she is doing so. After she leaves Jenna, she gets a text from A saying she was going to kill her which meant Jenna wasn't A and she cut Jenna off of her A suspect list. Alison tells the girls when she returned home she got yet another threat from A written with lipstick on her mirror. That night, Alison and Jessica got in a fight because she didn't want her daughter going to the Hastings barn and party with the girls. She warns Ali about the Hastings family. Alison takes 3 of her mother's sleeping pills while she is talking with someone on the phone. She meets the girls at the barn and slips some of the pills into their drink, hoping to cross them off if another A threat arrived. She met with Toby that night and said she knew he wasn't A, either. Ezra pulls up and Alison gets in the car. He won't let her leave. Alison tells the girls about meeting Ezra at a pub while hanging out with CeCe. Alison tricks him into thinking she's a literature buff. Alison apologizes to Aria for "everything." The night Alison drugged the girls before meeting Toby. After she finished talking with Toby she lefts him a message to meet her at the kissing rock. A car arrives and Ali gets in it. The driver is Ezra! Ezra was mad because he'd just discovered she was actually in high school. He says he won't see her anymore. Alison then met Ian and threatened him with his videos that if she gets another text she's sending him to jail. He warns her that some of the videos could bring "everybody down, including your family."

In present day Alison tells Aria that Ezra is trying to find Alison and save her as he thinks that doing so could help him get her back. That night in the barn Spencer and Alison argue. Spencer grabs the shovel and eventually falls over. Alison sees Spencer speed pills and follows after her. Spencer cries and begs her not to tell anybody. Alison promises not to tell anybody. Later that night she meets Byron and blackmails him for money with her knowledge of the affair between him and Meredith. Alison didn't receive any more texts that night, but returns home to find her mother staring out the window. Alison gets hit in the head with a rock while her mother looks on. This seems to prove Spencer couldn't have hurt the other girl and Jessica saw who did. Jessica is seen shoveling dirt over Alison, who she maybe thought was dead.

In present day Alison tells the girls she tried to tell her mother she was alive but she couldn't speak. Alison heard her mother say "what have you done?" which means Jessica was trying to protect somebody. After Carla Grunwald pulled her out of the ground, drove her to the hospital and went to get help, Alison left the hospital alone and Mona found her walking along the road. They go to a motel under a fake name, Vivian Darkbloom, and Mona thinks that perhaps Alison should let A think she's dead by disappearing. The girls tell Alison not to leave, even though they still don't know the identity of A. She was at the lodge trying to make sure they were safe. The girls see a strange light outside. Just then a hooded figure begins shooting at them and chasing them. They flee to the roof and find themselves trapped. Ezra shows up and gets in a fight with the hooded figure. Hanna grabs the gun that fell from the hooded person’s hands when he was fighting with Ezra and asks him to take off his mask. The hooded person ends up jumping to the next rooftop. They think that it cannot be Jessica. The girls turn back and see that Ezra was shot in the exchange. We then see the Manhattan skyline. The girls are not in Philadelphia but in Manhattan!

EscApe From New York
 * -|Season 5=

A distressed Aria is being held back by Spencer, Hanna and Emily as she watches Ezra being loaded into the back of an ambulance, “no let me go, please”. Hanna tells her that she can’t do anything to help Ezra right now, and Spencer reminds her that if the police think she knows anything, she’ll be spending the night at the police station answering questions. Emily reassures Aria by telling her they’ll find out where Ezra is being taken and they’ll get there.

Outside a convenience store, Aria says to Emily that “the plan was to get Ali out of town tonight, but now we know that A is after Ezra”, Emily understands that A wants to shut Ezra up, but Ali is still a target. Aria tells the girls that when Ezra pulls through, he’s going to tell them who A is and “this thing is finally going to be over”. As Hanna gets off the phone Aria asks if the police are sending someone to the hospital to guard Ezra, Hanna reassures her they are, she heard the operator typing. As Aria and Alison start walking away, Hanna tells them to wait and hands the gun she kept to Aria, while Emily tells them they’ll give them 10 minutes before making the call.

Exiting the Subway, Aria says she doesn’t understand how Ezra found them, and Alison tells her that she thinks Ezra was following ‘A’, “and A was following us”. Alison reminds Aria why Ezra is still looking for her, and tells her he wants to win Aria back. When Alison asks if Ezra still has a chance, Aria tells Alison that she can’t think about that right now, “I don’t even know if he’s alive”.

Aria and Alison rush into the hospital and up to a nurse’s station where Aria asks for information on Ezra. As Alison’s name is paged to the emergency room, Aria tells her that she better “get out of here”.

Aria walks into the surgical waiting room and finds two policeman standing guard in front of a set of double doors marked surgery.

Pacing the waiting room, Aria overhears a nurse updating Dianne Fitzgerald on Ezra’s condition; telling her that they’ve successfully removed the bullet but there was extensive arterial damage.

On the phone to the four girls, Aria tells them that she’s sorry they lost “the bitch”, but they did A “out of here”. Alison asks if Ezra is out of surgery and Aria starts to tell them what she overheard a nurse telling Ezra’s mom, but abruptly stops, telling them Dianne is getting on a plane, but she’s in Sydney, “there’s nobody here for him but me”. Hanna asks Aria if she’d like them to go back to the hospital, but Aria tells her she’s blending in, and the five of them may be waving a red flag. Alison tells her to call as soon as she hears anything, and Aria asks them to promise that they’ll be safe, to which Spencer tells her they will.

As Aria waits in the surgical waiting room, Shana sits down beside her, telling her that Alison sent her. Getting up off her chair, Aria says she gets Shana is Alison’s loyal companion “but I don’t need a watch dog”. Shana asks if she can get Aria anything, and Aria tells her no, before Shana tells her she looks exhausted, and if she falls asleep, she’ll wake her if there’s any news.

Having fallen asleep, Aria wakes to find Shana nowhere to be seen. Walking over to the nurse’s station she asks if Ezra is out of surgery, and the nurse tells her he’s in recovery. Walking into Ezra’s room, Aria finds Shana by his bedside and asks what she’s doing, “you said you’d wake me up”. Shana tells her that Ezra’s still unconscious, but stable. Ezra starts to wake up, but hyperventilates upon seeing Shana. As Aria rushes to the door to call for help, Shana slips from the room. Nurses run into Ezra’s room to try and stabilise his vitals, while a male nurse ushers Aria from the room.

On the phone to Alison, Aria tells her that Ezra made it through surgery, but doesn’t get to say anymore because the call fails. Aria tries again to call Fitzgerald Theater, but the phone is picked up. Hanging up, Aria notices a cop walking away from Ezra’s room with a nurse, so she takes the opportunity to walk into his room. Placing her hand over his, Ezra wakes, and Aria tells him that he’s going to be okay. Looking around the room, Ezra removes his oxygen mask and whispers something in Aria’s ear which causes her to rush out of the room.

Walking quietly onto the stage, Aria grabs a rifle and calls out to Shana. As Shana turns, Aria knocks the gun out of Shana’s hand, and shoves her backwards with the rifle. Losing balance, Shana falls off the edge of the stage. Emily walks down the stairs to the floor and checks Shana for a pulse, and pronounces her dead. As Aria walks away, Spencer follows and tells her she did what she had to do, a sentiment Emily shares as she tells Aria that Shana would have killed of them. Aria says to them, “it really is over. It’s over” before Spencer and Emily embrace her.

Whirly Girlie

Aria and the other liars arrive back in Rosewood with Alison, where they all agree Alison needs to tell the Police everything. Aria, although shaken, is ready to admit to what happened to Shana in New York and accept the consequences.

In her bedroom, finally home from the Rosewood Police Department, Aria rings the hospital in New York to try and get an update on Ezra, but is interrupted by a knock on her door. Mike comes in and asks her about Alison, before asking why Mr. Fitz is in hospital. Not wanting to have a full conversation and explain anything, Aria tells him she's tired and wants to go to bed.

Plagued with a nightmare of the events that occurred in New York, and other previous encounters with Shana, Aria wakes to violin music being played in her backyard. As she's closing her bedroom window, Hanna calls and tells her about the text Ali received at the Police Station, and that is why she changed her story.

The next morning, Aria researches current news stories trying to see if Shana's death has been reported by a newspaper. As she goes to close her laptop and give up on her search, her iPod begins to play violin music continuously, prompting her to quickly gather her things and rush from her room.

In the shed in the woods, Aria is trying to make it looked lived in, especially if they're to back up Alison's kidnapping story. When Emily walks in Aria explains they have to make it look like Ali has been living in here. She confides in Emily how guilty she feels and how angry she is at Emily and Spencer for not telling her about Alison's text message. Emily tries to reassure her that she did the right thing at the time. Emily goes on to tell her she knows what Aria is going through, because she went through the same thing when she shot Nate.

Coming home from the woods, Aria finds Mike and Mona in the Montgomery living room, sharing a pizza. When Mike excuses himself to put their dishes away, Aria is offered a whistle by Mona, which Aria interrupts as a threat. Mona also makes it very clear that she knows about what happened in New York, and what happened to Ezra.

Having gathered at Spencer's, Aria tells Hanna and Emily she's determined to go to the cops and tell them about what happened to Shana, she can't live with the guilt any longer. The girls hear Pepe barking in the garden and run out to the back porch. Curious and confused, Aria asks Hanna when Alison even had time to get a dog. Walking over closer to Pepe, they discover Mrs DiLaurentis' hand poking from the ground.

Surfing the Aftershocks

Aria, Spencer and Emily are waiting in the DiLaurentis' living room as Alison gets dressed for her mother's funeral. They overhear Mr DiLaurentis telling Jason he does not want any police or press at the funeral or cemetery. Hanna rejoins them after having been up with Alison. Aria asks how Alison is doing, and the conversation turns to how could have killed Jessica and buried her body in the Hastings backyard. Aria believes Pepe finding the body wasn't just a coincidence, it seemed like an 'A' move. Emily reminds her 'A' is gone and a guilty looking Aria has to look away.

A few days later the Liars are back at school and have been called into Vice Principal Hackett's office. He tells them that he is relieved they are safe and back in the "halls of Rosewood High School", and that the school will do what they can to protect them from the press and the curious. Aria tells him that they appreciate what the school is doing for them, but Hackett says in return he needs to know the girls will do their part in "keeping the disruptions to a minimum".

Leaving Hackett's office, Aria and the girls walk into the school courtyard, where Spencer voices her concerns about the people who know that Alison was lying about New York, particularly Ezra. When Spencer tells them that 'someone' has to go talk to him, make sure he's going to keep quiet, Aria is against the idea of her going, telling Spencer that while Ezra may be alive and safe, they're over.

Mona finds Aria at her locker and present her with a 'Get Well Soon' card for Mr Fitz, and asks "you know what happened in New York". Aria tries to tell her that Ezra was mugged, but Mona innocently tells her that he was shot, but now he is back. Not at school, but in Rosewood. Aria didn't know he was back, and she doesn't want to sign the card. Mona insists she does sign, even if it is for the sake of appearances. Hanna then walks up and takes the card from Mona, quickly scribbling her name and passing it to Aria to sign.

Aria is outside of Ezra's apartment, unsure on whether to knock or not. As she begins to walk away Ezra opens his door and the two sharing a longing look. Inside, Ezra tells her about his home care professional and makes a joke about being her favorite gunshot victim which falls flat. Ezra tells Aria that while he knows he promised he wouldn't come back to Rosewood, he doesn't have anywhere else to go. After asking how he is, Aria asks if he knows about everything that has happened, with Alison. Ezra understands that he has to go along with Alison's kidnap story. Aria then asks if he knows about Mrs DiLaurentis'; Ezra knows it was a murder, and initially he thought it was Shana but the timing doesn't fit. He had everything backwards and it wasn't until he saw Shana in New York dressed as 'A' that he knew she was 'A'. Ezra asks if Aria's heard from Shana since New York, and when Aria tells him no, he tells her to be careful. As Aria is about to leave, Ezra thanks for her coming by and letting him see her, and Aria tells him she wanted to see him also.

At the cabin in the woods, Aria tells Alison that Ezra will keep their secret if he's asked. Alison then asks if he knows about what happened to Shana, and when Aria tells her he doesn't, Ali tells her it's for the best. Aria tells Alison that Mona thinks she's coming back to Rosewood High, and with Mona knowing the truth about what happened in New York, she could "really create some trouble" if Alison did return to school. Alison tells Aria that Ezra doesn't look at world like Mona does, and that he isn't a bad guy. Ezra's just "too romantic for his own good" and probably the reason Aria fell for him in the first place. Before leaving, Aria hands over Ezra's manuscript to Alison.

In Aria's bedroom, Spencer tells her she received a text from Emily saying that Jason has an alibi for what happened in New York and Rosewood. Aria thinks it's crazy that Jason thinks his and Spencer's father could have been the one to kill Mrs DiLaurentis, but Spencer tells her crazy works on a sliding scale. Spencer apologises for asking Aria to go see Ezra, but Aria tells her no one else could have done it. When Spencer asks if Aria is okay, Aria tells her she needs to know it didn't happen, "Shana in the Theater".

Aria is back at Ezra's apartment, telling him that she should have warned him that Alison might drop by like she did. Ezra says the only reason he opened the door to Alison was because he thought it may have been Aria. After their goodbye earlier they had both thought it was going their final goodbye. Aria then confesses what really happened in New York, "you don't have to worry about Shana anymore. She's dead. And I know that she's dead because I'm responsible." Shocked, Ezra can't believe what he's hearing. When Aria tells him she killed Shana, he takes a moment to process before standing up and asking how he can help.

Thrown From The Ride

Aria and Hanna are in the Rosewood High courtyard as a book sale takes place. Aria, who has been staring at Hanna’s new hair, comments that while she really likes the cut and colour, spontaneity isn’t Hanna’s thing, “Hanna, you’re not spontaneous, you make a Pinterest board before you change your nail polish”. Noticing Hanna’s demeanour change after picking up a copy of ‘The Scarlet Letter’, Aria asks what’s wrong before Hanna tells her the book was Shana’s. Reaching for the book, Aria flips through the pages and finds a page that Shana had unlined. Reading out the unlined text, Aria tells Hanna that it’s not for a school assignment, “no, this is about Ali, Jenna and us. This is about being A”. Hanna tells Aria that she needs to start forgetting about Shana. Grabbing the book out of Aria’s hands, Hanna tells her to stop before throwing the book back onto the table where Mona picks it up. Mona suggests that Aria and Hanna should give the book to Alison for when she comes back to school, and that Shana won’t be needing it any more. Turning to face Aria, Mona asks for confirmation about Shana transferring back to Georgia, but Aria doesn’t answer.

Eating lunch outside, Spencer tells Aria and Hanna that it’s better than eating in the cafeteria, but Aria doesn’t believe so, “not really. We’re still a freak show. Now we’re just a freak show in natural light”. Looking around, Aria notices Mona staring at them from a distance and she’s seriously freaking Aria out, “she knows we were in New York. She threatened Ali. What if she knows about Shana too?” Spencer tells her that she needs to take a psychological selfie, because she’s letting her paranoia get the better of herself. Aria questions whether it all has to do with Shana, but Spencer tells her it doesn’t, it’s all about Ali. As all of their phones go off at once, Aria and Emily think it’s an ‘A’ text, it’s not, it’s Ali. Spencer reads out the text and says the family has to wait for cause of death, and Aria suggests perhaps Jessica was poisoned.

In the school computer lab, Aria is checking her emails and smiles when she opens an email from Ezra. Suddenly an IM pops up on her screen and Aria freaks out when she reads the content, “if it was me, I could never forget. It would haunt me for the rest of my life”. Quickly typing a ‘who is this’ reply, Aria is relieved when ‘TheaterGirl’ says she is Becca from AP History and asks how Alison is doing. With a glance around the room, Aria enters ‘Shana Fring’ into the search bar and scrolls through the webpages and finding an online video of Shana’s funeral. Aria clicks on the video and watches the memorial, a tear sliding down her cheek. As she watches the video, Aria envisions Shana rising from her open coffin and turning to face her.

Aria, Emily and Spencer are in Emily’s bedroom where Emily tells them about her and Paige hanging out, where they were laughing and joking, and then all of a sudden Paige totally shut down. Aria mentions that perhaps Paige is scared of getting close only to be rejected again. Aria notes that she’s noticed Emily has kind of been MIA about Ali, and Spencer tells Aria she has as well, only for Aria to say that’s why she’s noticed Emily’s absence. Emily asks Aria if she thinks she’s scared of getting close to Ali again, and when Aria asks if she still has feelings for their returned friend, Emily tells her she doesn’t know. Aria then asks Emily how she dealt with what happened with Nate, and if she wanted to know about everything about him. Emily tells her that when she received the package from his mom, she obsessed over it.

In her bedroom, Aria watches and re-watches the video of Shana’s funeral.

Aria knocks on Ezra’s door, and rushes into his apartment where she tells him she can’t keep thinking about Shana’s family and when she closes her eyes all she can see is Shana’s grandmother and how empty she looked at the funeral. Ezra asks her how she knows what Shana’s grandmother looked like at the funeral, and Aria admits to watching Shana’s funeral online, “many times”. Ezra tells her that she’s just going to have to find a way to forgive herself.

While Ezra is out grabbing food, Aria phones the church where Shana’s funeral was held hoping to donate to the cost of the service. Walking to his apartment, Ezra asks her what she’s doing, and when she hangs up, he tells her that’s not trying to find a way to forgive yourself, that’s hoping they forgive you. Knowing he’s right, Aria goes to sit on his couch, curling herself into a ball. Ezra tells her he knows it’s not easy, finding a way to forgive yourself, he tried after Aria found out about the book, but sometimes you have to realise forgiveness might never happen and you have to be okay with that. Leaning forward, Ezra grabs his checkers board and starts to set it up. When Aria asks what he’s doing, Ezra tells her they’re playing checkers until they get sick of it, they’ll play chess.

Aria wins another game of Gin, and Ezra asks why she is so freakishly good, only for her to tell him, “I’m not. You’re just freakishly bad”. As Aria passes him to cards to shuffle and deal, Ezra tells her he’s starting to fade. At the thought of going home to an empty house, Aria asks if she can stay over, “on the couch”. Ezra agrees, and goes to grab a shirt for Aria to change into and when Ezra hands over the shirt, Aria realises that she shouldn’t stay and goes leave but not before lingering at the door.

At Spencer’s, Aria tells her that it wasn’t that big of a deal, and that it sounds bad that she nearly slept over at Ezra, but nothing was going to happen. After digging through Spencer’s fridge, Aria notices Spencer’s worried face and asks if she’s okay. Spencer tells her that when Ali disappeared, Mrs D told Spencer’s parents that she thought Spencer had something to do with it. Aria tells Spencer that Mrs D knew who hit Ali and that it wasn’t Spencer. Spencer says Jessica was trying to set her up, and she is really worried that her dad tried to stop her. Aria starts to ask Spencer if she thinks her dad killed Jessica, and Spencer confirms Aria’s question before Peter walks in. After Aria greets Peter, Spencer asks where Veronica is only for Peter to tell her she’s not coming home tonight. Sensing that Spencer and Peter need to talk, Aria excuses herself to go get ready for bed.

Miss Me x 100

Aria and Ezra are walking down the main street of Rosewood, when Ezra asks if Aria is still having nightmares of Shana. She tells him she is, and he tells her she needs to let go. Reaching up, Aria runs her hand down Ezra’s cheek, before realising what she was going and dropping her hand. Walking past him, she tells him she keeps waiting for an ‘A’ message, a text that is going to come in with a picture of her standing on Shana’s dead body. Ezra reminds her that photo doesn’t exist, and Aria says to tell that to her right eye, “it still twitches every time I get a text”. Stopping, they notice Alison leaning in the window of a car and Ezra wonders what she’s doing out so late. Aria tells him she doesn’t know, “ever since she’s been back, she’s practically lived in her bedroom”, before calling out to Alison. When Alison asks them if this is a date, they both tell her no. Aria asks her what she’s doing, and Alison tells her that her dad forgot her enrolment forms on his desk and he’s stuck on a call so his flunky dropped her off. Aria watches a bus as it rolls into the bus stop across the road. Hearing a familiar sound as the bus starts to depart, Aria, Ezra and Alison turn, coming face to face with Jenna who is back in Rosewood.

The five girls are in Aria’s living room, where Emily tells Spencer that nobody like lying to Toby, but if he finds out what happened in New York, before she can finish Aria cuts her off, telling Spencer that she should just tell him the truth, "if you were lying to protect me, you don't have to". Noticing Spencer looking in Alison's direction, Aria tells her that it's her decision, not Alison's. Alison tells the girls that she wants to try and make amends with everyone she hurt, and when Aria asks if it includes Jenna, she does not answer.

Aria, Emily, Hanna and Spencer are waiting for Alison to arrive, with Hanna questioning whether Alison is really coming, and Aria says that they should have picked her up, "why didn't we pick her up?" Watching as Alison starts to slowly make her way through the crowds of people, Hanna wonders if people are loving her or hating her, but Aria cannot tell. Finally getting to the other four girls, Alison thanks them for waiting, and all together they make their way into the halls of Rosewood High. As they come to a stop, Aria asks if Alison knows where her first class is, and Alison tells her that she's supposed to go to the guidance counselors office, but she can't remember what it is. After Emily and Alison walks off, Aria circles around in front of Hanna and Spencer, "I can't believe she's actually back in school". Hanna mentions that as abnormal as it is, it actually feels normal, to which Spencer tells her baby steps.

Hanna wonders where Spencer is, and Aria mentions that she’s thinking of going by Jenna’s after school, so she can swing by Spencer’s to check in on her. Hanna wants to know why Aria would go see Jenna, so Aria explains that she believes what Toby said about Jenna being broken, so maybe there might be something she can do to help. Emily wants to know what Aria could do to help, and Aria tells them to back off, “look Hanna, I really hope that you find a hobby, and I hope you have a carefree senior year Em, but I’ve got to find a way to live with what I did in New York”. As Emily tries to talk, Aria cuts her off, “I can be sorry for her loss, that’s what I can do”.

Walking up to the Cavanaugh house, Aria finds the front door open and calls out to Jenna. Pushing open Jenna’s bedroom door, Aria takes in the room before finding Jenna sitting on the floor crying. When Jenna asks who's there, Aria doesn’t say anything, instead deciding to walk away.

Aria arrives home and when she turns to close the front door she finds Jenna standing there. Jenna tells her she knows it was Aria in her bedroom earlier, ignoring Aria’s offer for tea, Jenna tells her she just wants an answer. Aria says she heard about Shana and wanted to see if she was okay. Jenna wonders why Aria would care if she is okay, and Aria tells her with Alison back, it is bringing back a lot of stuff for everyone and they all feel really terrible about their part in the accident. Jenna reminds Aria that she still has all her friends, while she on the other hand, doesn’t have anyone left. As Jenna is turning to leave, Aria again offers her tea, “I didn’t really know Shana that well, but if you wanted to come in and talk and tell me about her”. Turning back around, Jenna tells Aria that she thinks that would help.

Aria is leaving a voice mail for a Hanna, as she, Spencer and Emily gather in Alison’s bedroom. Alison says she doesn’t think it was a coincidence that she couldn’t reach any of the liars tonight, and Aria tells her it sounds like an ambush. After Emily hands Alison a cup of tea, Aria takes it off of her after noticing Alison’s hands shaking. Aria asks what Alison did after Mona slapped her, and Alison tells them she just stared at her.

Walking into Ezra’s apartment, Aria hands Ezra a Paula’s Pie box, while reminding him that while there might no longer be ‘A’, he should still lock his door. Sitting down at his table, Ezra asks why she bought pie, Aria throws a “why not pie” comment over her shoulder as she grabs forks from a drawer. Aria tells him that Jenna is blaming herself for Shana's death, and if she's to blame anyone, it should be her. Ezra thinks that they should both be blaming Shana as she was the one holding the gun. As Aria eat a mouthful, Ezra wipes some cream from her bottom lip and licks the cream from his thumb, before realising what he just did. Aria tells Ezra that Alison believed that Jenna was manipulating Shana, but Aria thinks Jenna “actually loved her”. Ezra tells her that she needs to stop beating herself up, and when she says she doesn't know how she is going to get past it, he stands up, lifting his shirt and shows her his scar from the gunshot wound. Saddened, Aria traces over the edges of the wound with her thumb, “I’m so sorry”. Grabbing her wrists and lifting her up, Ezra tells her that he never wants to hear her say she's sorry again, and leans in to kiss her. Reciprocating the kiss, they move to Ezra's oven where he lifts her onto the stovetop and they continue to kiss with more passion and urge.

On Ezra's bed, Aria and Ezra are feverishly making out, and when Aria rolls on top of Ezra, she asks “does that hurt?” in response Ezra tells her he can handle it. Sitting up, Aria drags the bed sheet over them as she leans back down to kiss him.

Aria, Emily and Alison walk up to a hung over Hanna and Spencer in the halls of Rosewood High. When Aria asks if she feels as bad as she looks, Hanna tells her to be not so loud. Alison asks how Mona knew they were in New York and Aria repsonds, "she's Mona". What Aria doesn’t understand though is how Mona sent the 'New York minute' text the night they got back into town. Spencer starts to explain satellites and Bluetooth sniper rifles, and Aria questions if Mona blue snarfed them. Walking into the cafeteria, Mona and her army confront the Liars, with Mona coming forward and exposing Alison's lie with a video to prove that Alison slapped her. Following Alison into the girls’ bathrooms, Alison tell the girls that Mona set her up.

A breaking news story breaks in regards to the identity of the Jane Doe who was buried in Alison's grave, so everyone gathers in Emily's living room. As the press conference starts, Ezra reaches out to Aria and she takes his hand in hers and rests her other hand on his arm. The Police Chief explains that they've received confirmation tonight that the girl that was buried alive on the DiLaurentis property was Bethany Young. As the Police Chief is finishing up the press conference, a large boom is heard and windows of Emily's lounge room explode. Recovering from the glass blast, Aria and the others walk out onto the street to find the Cavanaugh house on fire and rubble lying all over the road. After Toby has run off to see if anyone was inside the Cavanaugh home, the Liars' cell phones all start beeping and ringing.

Run, Ali, Run

The Liars' cell phones are beeping and ringing with an incoming text message, and Alison says that it is from A, and when Ezra asks what it says, Aria reads it out loud, "Did you miss me, bitches. -A". A second explosion inside the Cavanaugh house occurs leaving Aria and the others ducking for cover.

In Emily's bedroom, Aria is looking out the window towards the Cavanaugh home where emergency crews are still on scene. As Spencer ends her phone call to Toby, Aria asks what Toby said, and Spencer tells them that nobody was inside the house, but Toby's dad broke his leg trying to avoid a tree coming down. As Alison wonders if the text message they received means they were wrong about Shana, Aria comments, "A is alive, and knows that I killed her". Emily says that is impossible, they all heard what Shana said, but Aria reminds her that Shana never said she was A, "she never used those words". Spencer says she thinks that 'A' never left, and Aria says that 'A' has been here the whole time, "just watching us, waiting for the right moment to resurface".

In Ezra's apartment, Aria tells Ezra that Shana wasn't 'A', and that she killed an innocent person, but Ezra reminds her that Shana was not innocent. Aria tells him the cops aren't going to believe that when they find out she's been covering Shana's murder up, "it's only a matter of time before A exposes what I did". Ezra tells her that they don't know if this person has any idea of what happened in New York, and when Aria asks Ezra what he is doing, he tells her he's looking for a connection between Mrs DiLaurentis and Bethany Young. When Aria questions him why, Ezra explains that he doesn't think he was to far off with his Mrs D theory, especially when Mrs D was on the board at Radley Sanitarium and Bethany was a patient there, while also being buried in Mrs D's yard, in the same spot where Ali was buried. Aria picks up that Ezra thinks A killed Bethany and Mrs D, and Ezra telling her that would be a connection. He goes on to say when he was writing his book he interviewed some of the staff at Radley and he thinks the name Bethany Young came up, he just doesn't know which file it is in. As Aria tells him that she can help him look after school, he tells her that they're going to get through this.

In the school cafeteria, Spencer confirms to Aria that Peter and Melissa drove to the lake and talked, but he wouldn't say what they talked about or why he lied. Aria asks if Spencer has talked to Melissa, and Spencer says she's left like five messages. Aria says that Veronica did the right thing by leaving, and when her phone rings she tells Spencer that it's Ezra before answering. After ending the call, Aria tells Spencer that Ezra is trying to find a link between Bethany and Mrs D, and when Spencer asks if he's found one, Aria tells her he hasn't, "he's left messages for all his contacts at Radley, but, so far, nothing". Spencer queries Aria that she's going over to Ezra's later, and Aria says she's going to help him sort through his files. Spencer wonders if that's the only reason, and when Aria doesn't answer, Spencer asks if there is something going on between the two of them, but Aria tells her no. As Spencer questions Aria why she brought Ezra to Emily's the previous night, Aria admits that "we had a slip". Putting down her fork, Spencer bewilders the slip, before Aria admits "well, technically it as two slips". A shocked Spencer says that she thought Aria said she'd never go their again, and Aria says that "I meant it when she said it", before Spencer asks if she's forgetting about what he did to her, what he did to them. Aria tells her no, "of course not", but Spencer reminds her that she couldn't eat or sleep for weeks after she found out about that book. Aria defensively says that he took a bullet for them, but Spencer says it doesn't change the fact that he deceived her for years. Alison, Hanna and Emily join them, and seeing Emily looking uneasy, Aria asks if she's okay, only for Alison to say that Emily practically jumped out of her skin when somebody dropped their lunch tray. After her phone goes off, Alison is shocked at what she sees, and with the other Liars leaning in, they watch a snapchat video of Jessica DiLaurentis being buried in the Hastings backyard, along with an 'A' message.

In Hanna's kitchen, Alison tells the girls that 'A' killed her mother, and when Emily reels off a list of possible suspects for doing so, Aria suggests that it could be someone "we haven't even thought of yet". Hanna asks if Spencer is okay, and an upset Spencer tells them that she accused her dad of murder when he didn't do it. Hanna says it makes sense as to why she thought he did, and Aria mentions not unless Peter is A. When Spencer looks over her shoulder to Aria, Aria tells her she's just putting it out there. Aria comments that Ezra thinks Bethany can ultimately lead them to 'A', and Spencer says that they have to try and help Ezra find out as much as they can. Alison says she's can't stick around for answers, she needs to leave town, and Emily says that if Alison leaves they can't protect her, while Aria adds that it's not like before, "the cops are watching your every move".

Ezra and Aria are going through Ezra's research when Aria stumbles on a photo of them together, and Ezra tells her it was a fun day the day the photo was taken. As Aria begins to talk about what happened the other night, Ezra cuts her off, telling her that it felt right, but Aria tells him it doesn't mean things can go back to the way that they were. Ezra questions what it does mean, and Aria says, "I'm not going to pretend I don't miss it, us, because I do", and Ezra tells her he does too. Aria then tells him that she then remembers everything that happened, "how we met, all the lies that you told", and while Ezra says he wishes he could go back and change things, Aria reminds him he can't, "and the other night was a mistake". As someone knocks on Ezra's door, he gets up to answer it, and Lieutenant Tanner introduces herself, and wonders if she could ask him a few questions. Hearing Tanner's voice, Aria gets up from where she was sitting and goes to hide in Ezra's bathroom.

After Lieutenant Tanner has left, Aria tells Ezra that they need to get the boxes out of his apartment quick, and when Ezra tells Aria to slow down, Aria is convinced Tanner is probably already on her way back with a search warrant. Ezra tells her that Tanner is not on her way back, and when Aria asks how he can say that as "she basically said that she knows Shana was the one who shot you", Ezra questions why Tanner would want to search his apartment. Aria tells him Tanner knows Ezra is hiding something, and Ezra tells her that "she's going to need a whole lot more than suspicion to get a search warrant". Aria goes on to say that if Tanner does come back she's going to find proof that Ezra was lying about how well he knew Shana, and that Alison wasn't kidnapped. Ezra says that he could move the stuff into his storage unit, but Aria realises that if it's registered in his name, they'll search the storage unit as well, before Aria suggests that they just put everything in her attic. Ripping open the envelope that was left for him, Ezra finds a drawing and wonders what it is. Walking over to him, Aria says that she thinks it Mrs DiLaurentis, and when Ezra asks how she can tell, Aria explains, "that's her house, she was obsessed with her roses, and she definitely wore scarves like that". Flipping the page over, Ezra reads the signature, "Bethany", and when Aria questions how many Bethany's he knows, he tells her just one, and she was buried in Mrs DiLaurentis' backyard. Aria wonders who would want him to have this picture, and when he wonders why, Aria tells him her money is on 'A', before Ezra realises that he still has his security camera's up in the hallway.

Going through the security camera footage, Aria hands him a bottle of water and asks if he's seen anything, and he tells her, only her arriving at his door. Aria can't believe that he still has a camera in the hallway, but Ezra tells her that it makes sense with all the research material there. Aria comes to the conclusion that whoever dropped of the picture had to of done it after she arrived, but before Tanner came, and with Ezra agreeing, he puts the video in fast forward. Aria tells him she's been thinking, and that perhaps he should tell Tanner the truth about Shana, "you know, that she was the one that shot you". When Ezra asks where this is coming from, Aria tells him that he lied to the police and that he could get into serious trouble. Ezra reminds her that if he tells the truth now, they're going to know he's covering something up. Sighing, Aria says "I hate that I dragged you into this mess", and grabbing her hand, Ezra tells her she didn't, he dragged himself into it when he decided to write a book. Placing her hand on Ezra's, the two share a look, before Ezra notices something on the security camera footage. Rewinding and going through the footage in slow motion, they spot who left the envelope, and when Aria asks Ezra if he knows who the person is, Ezra tells her that it is Eddie Lamb, he works at Radley, and he's one of the people Ezra interviewed for the book. Recognising the name, Aria mentions that Eddie Lamb was the one who Spencer talked to earlier, and that "he wouldn't tell her a thing. That it was against Radley policy", and when Ezra says that he must have had a change of heart, Aria questions why he left the picture for Ezra, but Ezra doesn't know.

Walking into Emily's bedroom, Aria hugs Alison and asks how this could have happened, Emily says it happened because Alison was alone, Hanna wasn't with her. Emily says she didn't call Hanna because she was going to help Alison leave town, and Alison tells them not to be pissed at Hanna, tonight proves she should leave town as they're no closer to finding out who 'A' is. Aria says that may not be true and pulls the picture Ezra was sent out of her handbag and hands it to Alison, "Eddie Lamb gave this to Ezra". As Alison, Emily and Spencer look over the picture, Aria tells them that she and Ezra think that "Bethany drew that while she was in there". Spencer asks Aria what Eddie said when he dropped the picture off, and Aria says he didn't say anything, "he left it anonymously". Aria tells the girls that Ezra still has a camera set up in his hallway and they saw it on the video. Emily says one of them has to get into Radley, and Aria is quick to vote for Spencer, but Spencer says she can't go back in there, she was committed, but she thinks she has a way in. As Alison gets another text message from 'A', Aria mentions that she doesn't get it, for two years A has been hunting Alison down like a warrior cat, but before she can finish what she was saying, Emily does it for her, saying that A wants Alison in town, and Aria questions why.

In Radley Sanitarium, the director tells Aria that she has a great school record, and they are looking for volunteers, but she needs to know that their patients can be challenging, even aggressive at times. Asking her if she would be comfortable in this kind of environment, Aria tells her, "I'm comfortable".

The Silence of E. Lamb

Walking past Emily and her mom, Aria follows Alison into the girls’ bathroom. In the bathroom having told the girls about her mom’s dinner party, Aria tells Emily that she doesn’t think that she’ll be finished at Radley, “I can’t just put that Bethany up on the bulletin board with my phone number. It’s going to take a while”. When Spencer reminds Aria that ‘A’ won’t give them a while, Aria asks Spencer if she’s still going to Ezra’s later to help him move his research and “spy stuff”, to which Spencer tells her sure.

Walking through the corridor of Radley, Aria notices Eddie Lamb as she turns into one of the larger open rooms. As Aria is setting the box she was carrying down on a table, Eddie asks if she’s the new volunteer, and she nods in affirmation. After Eddie says her name, Aria freezes before slowly turning towards him, and Eddie questioning whether he mangled how to pronounce her name, but Aria tells him he got it right. Eddie wonders if Aria volunteered for the reading program last year, and when she tells him “nope. No, this is my first time here”, Eddie comments that it feels as though they’ve met before, but Aria tells him she doesn’t think so.

Stationed behind a collapsible table in the art room, the teacher asks Aria to spread out the pictures she is holding onto, and when one patient notices one of the drawings on the table, she mumbles the word thief in Aria’s direction. The teacher tells Rhonda that it is one thing to not participate, it’s another to disrupt, and when Rhonda tells the nurse that Aria stole her drawing, the teacher tells Rhonda that this is Aria’s first class with them. The teachers tells Aria to just ignore Rhonda, she’s having a day, and when Aria asks what happened, the teacher says that the police may have upset her because Bethany was Rhonda’s former roommate.

Wiping down one of the tables, Aria goes to put the cleaning products away when Big Rhonda walks up behind her and reaches out to touch her hair. Turning around, Aria asks Rhonda what is doing, Rhonda tells Aria that the drawing doesn’t belong to her, and that she ripped it out of her book. Aria starts to say that she doesn’t know what Rhonda means, but Rhonda says that she gave them to her, not to her, and when Aria questions who gave the drawings to her, “Bethany?”, Rhonda asks if Aria knows what they do to thieves before telling her that they cut off their hands, and asking what she is going to do with no hands. Walking over to her handbag, Aria pulls out the picture and hands it over, asking her why Bethany gave it to her, but Rhonda asks Aria if she’s calling her a thief, before saying she’s the thief. As Aria starts to tell Rhonda, “no”, Eddie walks in and what is going on, before asking Rhonda what she thinks Aria stole from her. After Rhonda says that she has to take her shower now, and Eddie has walked her from the room, Aria grabs her cell phone from her handbag and sends a message to Emily, “be late for dinner. Radley just got interesting”.

Watching from a distance as Rhonda leaves her room for the showers, Aria walks in. Looking around the room, she goes through the drawers of a dresser before the same for the drawers at the desk in the room. Hearing Rhonda yelling in the bathroom, Aria hides herself under Rhonda’s bed. Watching as Rhonda’s feet materialise at the bed, Aria puts her hands out in front of her chest when Rhonda sits down and the mattress sags under the body weight. As Rhonda flops down on the bed, Aria is left in an even tighter position as the mattress sags even more, but looking up to the springs, she notices Bethany’s sketch book.

Walking quickly out of Radley, Aria is stopped by Eddie in the parking lot where he asks if Aria had a long day, and Aria tells him “yeah”, and she’s actually late to a friends’ house. Eddie comments that volunteers don’t usually stay so late and that Radley can be a little overwhelming, to which Aria says that it was only her first day, and she’ll catch on. Noticing Eddie looking at her handbag, Aria self-consciously changes her handbag into her other hand, and when Eddie asks her what she’s looking for, Aria tells him she’s late and she has to go.

In Spencer’s bedroom, Spencer and Aria are flipping through Bethany’s sketch book that Aria took from Rhonda, and Spencer tells Aria that she knows it was her idea, but she cannot go back to Radley. Aria tells Spencer she has to, “maybe Rhonda knows who visited Bethany and who Bethany’s friends were”, and the more she finds out, the closer they are to exposing ‘A’. Finding a ripped page, Spencer asks to see the drawing that Eddie left for Ezra, and they work out that the Mrs DiLaurentis drawing was the last thing she drew, and that she must have left Radley after drawing the picture. Spencer wonders if Bethany left hours, weeks or days later, and Aria questions how she ended up at the DiLaurentis house. As they continue to go through the drawings, Aria asks how Spencer went today, “with Ezra”, and as Spencer tells her it was fine, Aria asks “you didn’t say anything, did you? About…”, to which Spencer asks why she would slip her into a conversation, she and Ezra have done enough slipping on their own. Aria and Spencer watch as Bethany’s drawings get darker in content, and getting to one drawing, Aria comments that it looks like a Chagall, “flying like that”, but Spencer mentions that it’s not flying, and as she turns the page vertically, says that the woman I is falling. As Spencer tells Aria to look at the vines and the bars on the windows, Aria concludes, “someone falling at Radley?” and Spencer questions whether it could be Toby’s mother. Aria wonders if Bethany saw that, only for Spencer to say she either saw it or heard about it, and Aria wonders if Spencer thinks Bethany was the fragile patient that was on the roof with Toby’s mother that night, before Spencer asks who else knew Bethany at Radley. Flipping over the page, the girls find a picture of Jessica DiLaurentis with demon horns, and Spencer says that Mrs DiLaurentis was on the board, and she was part of the cover up, to which Aria concludes, “so Bethany left Radley, and went looking for Mrs DiLaurentis”, and Spencer finishes her thought process, that she found someone waiting for her with a shovel. Aria thinks maybe that person was ‘A’, and Spencer tells her that she has to show the pictures to Toby, only for Aria to tell her to take a picture, she’s got to get the book back under the mattress before Big Rhonda finds out it’s missing.

In her living room, Aria is on her phone to Spencer and tells her that she’s walking out her door “right now”, and no she hasn’t talked to Hanna. Opening her front door, Aria is surprised to find Ezra standing there, “Ezra?” Ezra asks Aria for confirmation that she saw Eddie as she was leaving Radley, and she tells him she did, "in the parking lot" and when she asks him why, Ezra tells her Eddie called him to set up a meeting, he waited for over an hour, but Eddie never showed up.

In the Hastings’ kitchen, Aria is watching Spencer’s security video of Alison with Emily, and asks Spencer where Alison is going and if she saw her come back, but Spencer tells her no, not yet. Aria then asks Emily how Alison was acting when she left Emily’s house, but Emily says it was hard to tell, she left pretty early, but that could have had something to do with her and her drinking. When Aria asks “in front of your mom?”, Emily explains that she had to kick Hanna out and Hanna knows Emily’s mad, so she may not even show up. All three girls’ phones start beeping and ringing with an incoming text message, and after reading it, they look up to Hanna who has just arrived. Aria asks if Hanna just got the text that came in, “it’s from A”, but Hanna tells her no, so Spencer passes her phone to Hanna who reads it aloud, “New York, New York, it’s a hell of a town. Ali’s keeping secrets, maybe that’s because of Hanna’s big mouth. –A”.

Scream For Me

In choir class, Aria and the other Liars sing while keeping an eye on Alison who is being questioned by Lieutenant Tanner in a small room just off of the music room. As class finishes, Emily wonders why Tanner would interview Alison in front of them, and Spencer says to make a point, and they’re next. Aria suggests that maybe the police saw Alison sneaking out of her house last night as well, and when Emily asks Aria if she told Alison about Spencer’s tapes, Aria tells her of course not. Looking towards Hanna, Aria adds, “some of us know to keep our mouths shut”. As Alison joins them, Emily asks what it was about and Alison says Shana, it was all about Shana. Aria asks if Tanner knows they were in Philly that night, and Alison says that she can’t tell, but Tanner clearly doesn’t believe her story and she’s trying to trip Alison up. Reaching for her bag, Aria says she’s got to go tell Ezra, and when Spencer tries to get her to wait, Aria asks for what, “so she can go ambush him while he’s having a medical check-up in New York. He needs to know what was broadcast in the Brew”.

Walking outside of Rosewood High, Aria leaves Ezra a voice mail saying that Alison got grilled by Tanner and that ‘A” music have tipped her off about New York. She asks if Eddie has called yet as they need to figure out what is up with those drawings, and she has to get them back to Big Rhonda before she notices them missing. After spotting Ella walking towards her, Aria tells Ezra to call her as soon as he can. Turning back to her mom, Aria greets her and asks what she is doing. Ella tells her that she’s just dropping off some invitations before wondering what Aria is doing outside. Aria says that she was just leaving a message for Byron, “I think I left a book in his car”, before Ella comments that Aria was out the door so fast this morning, and Ella had thought that maybe they could have had breakfast together, but Aria says she thought they may be a bit jet lagged. Ella mentions that she knows she and Zack have asked Aria to say a little something Saturday night, and when Aria says that she doesn’t have to it’s their engagement, Ella reassures her that she wants Aria to say something, but she was wondering if she could introduce her as her maid of honour. Elated, Aria hugs Ella and tells her of course. Saying that she’s so glad Aria said that, Ella goes on to say that she’s booked them an appointment today, this afternoon, at the bridal shop, but Aria says she can’t today, “I’m at Radley”. As Ella wonders if another volunteer could cover her shift, Aria’s phone starts vibrating with an incoming call from Ezra. Cutting Ella off, Aria says that it sounds like fun, but she has to get back to class and wonders if they can figure it out later.

Peering into the window cut out of some closed door rooms at Radley, Aria is stopped by Nurse Lisa asking if she can help her. Aria says she can, and goes on to say that she’s looking for Eddie Lamb, “he works here. I was just helping out with art therapy”. Nurse Lisa says she knows why Aria is here, but Eddie is not and that yesterday was his last day. Aria wonders if Eddie got another job, and when Nurse Lisa says she has no idea, Aria asks if he left a forwarding number, “anyway to contact him?”, but Nurse Lisa questions if Aria is at Radley to finger paint or speed date the orderlies. After Nurse Lisa has pushed Aria into the day room, Aria looks around the room and moving back out into the corridor, she takes a peek into Rhonda’s room and lets herself in, closing the door behind her. Taking Bethany’s book from her bag, Aria places it back under Rhonda’s bed, but as she does, Rhonda walks into the room and asks if she’s looking for something. Aria tells Rhonda that she couldn’t find her, and that she just wanted to take another peek at Rhonda’s sketch book, before adding that one of the nurses said that Rhonda had stashed the book under her bed, “I’m sorry Rhonda, really I am. I never meant to invade your space”. Saying that she’s going to go back to the day room now, and that they’re probably looking for her, Aria attempts to leave, but as she does, Rhonda grabs her arm and tells her that she can forget she saw her, but it may cost her something.

Giving Rhonda a can of root beer and a bag of cheese crunches, Aria asks if she would like a cup with the root beer, or maybe some crushed ice. Leaning back and putting her feet up on the desk, Rhonda asks Aria why she’s so into the sketch book, and if she was a friend of hers. Aria questions, “Bethany?” before saying that she never met her, but her body was buried in “my friends’ backyard”, and everyone is just curious about who she was and why she ran away. Rhonda mentions that everyone in Radley thinks about running away, and a lot of folks had it a whole lot worse than Bethany did. When Aria asks what Rhonda means, Rhonda tells Aria that she never had anyone sign her out, and when Aria asks who signed Bethany out, Rhonda tells her the rich lady with the big beige purse. Aria questions what rich lady Rhonda is talking about, and if her name was Mrs DiLaurentis, and Rhonda says that it was something like that. Aria then asks what kind of gifts Bethany was being given, and when Rhonda doesn’t answer, Aria asks if Bethany was given a yellow layered top, but Rhonda says she doesn’t remember anything about a top, but she sure as hell remembers Custard. When Aria wonders why Bethany would have been given a pie, Rhonda corrects her, saying a horse, and that the rich lady took Bethany out to the stables by Louisburg, and let Bethany adopt her own damn pony. Aria asks Rhonda why Mrs DiLaurentis would have been giving Bethany gifts, and when Rhonda doesn’t answer, Aria tells her that the rich lady was murdered and that her body in the backyard next door to where Bethany’s was buried, and there’s a really good chance that same exact person did it to both of them. Aria asks Rhonda is she has any idea of who this person could be, but before Rhonda can answer, Nurse Lisa walks in and lectures Aria for giving Rhonda, who is a diabetic, a soda pop.

In the Montgomery study, Aria is printing out copies of Bethany’s drawings while on the phone with Spencer, “I’ll never get back into her room”, and when Spencer asks if they fired her, Aria tells her no, “I didn’t kill her. I just gave her a freakin’ root beer. How was I supposed to know she needed sugar free”. Spencer asks what the name of the stables, and Aria tells her she doesn’t know, but they can figure it out, before questioning how many stables are near Louisburg, to which Spencer says they call it horse country for a reason. Hearing the front door, Aria tells Spencer she has to go and ends the call as Ella walks into the study. Closing her laptop, Aria says that she completely forgot, before Ella asks where she was and that she went through a lot of trouble to change the appointment time and then Aria just blew it off. After asking Aria what is wrong with her, and Aria telling her that she’s sorry and that she has a lot on her mind, Ella questions if that’s really the reason of if it’s just some form of passive resistance. Aria begins to say that she doesn’t know what that means, but Ella goes on to say if something has changed since she first told her about the engagement and Aria doesn’t want her to get married again, she needs her to be open about it, instead of acting out. Aria tells her that’s not it at all, “mom, I’m really happy for you”, and that she honestly just forgot. Taking a moment, Ella says that she will try and change the time, but if Aria misses it, before she can finish however, Aria cuts in, telling her she won’t miss it, “I promise”. As Ella leaves, Aria turns back to the printer and picking up the printed drawings, she bites her lip.

Writing names on place cards, Aria sits Hanna’s next to Spencer’s, and after sitting back, there is a knock at the door. Getting up, she opens the door to find Hanna standing there, and after Hanna has walked in, she closes it again. After Aria asks if Hanna, who is wet from the rain, needs a towel, Hanna tells her she’s fine, and while she knows they are not on the best of terms, she had to come over. Hanna goes on to say that she doesn’t know how else to say this, so she’s just going to say it, and she tells Aria that Zack hit on her. Confused, Aria asks “what?”, and Hanna explains that at first she thought he was joking, but then he got into her car, and stopping Hanna, Aria asks what she is saying, only for Hanna to that Zack wanted to hook up with her. Aria asks if Hanna kissed him, and when Hanna says no, Aria comments that “this is so messed up”. Hanna says she knows and that’s why she wanted to tell her, but Aria tells her no, “you. You’re the problem, Hanna. You are always the problem”. When Hanna asks what she means, Aria goes on to say “the rest of us are getting ulcers trying not to say the wrong thing, and you’re getting hammered in front of Emily’s mom and blabbing to a stranger”. Hanna says that she told Aria she was sorry, but pointing her finger, Aria says that Hanna didn’t tell her that, “A did’. Going on, Aria tells Hanna that she couldn’t even remember what she said and that she, Spencer and Emily were shouting out guesses trying to jog her memory, “it was like playing charades with drunky. Sounds like murder”. When Hanna says that it’s not true, Aria wonders if Hanna invited Zack into her car, and when Hanna asks why she would do that, Aria asks Hanna if she was trashed. When Hanna tells her she wasn’t trashed, Aria says that if Hanna wants to spiral out of control and self-destruct by all means go right ahead, “but I sure as hell am not let you take my mom down to”. Turning around, Aria goes to open the front door and after Hanna has walked through, she slams it shut.

Sitting on the ground of the living room making paper decorations, Aria watches her phone as it vibrates with an incoming call from Emily. As Zack wonders why he can’t make the decorations, Aria turns to face him and Ella. Zack notices the flowers Aria has made, and comments that she is a master at work. Standing up, Aria announces that she’s going to take a break, and Zack wonders if it’s movie time, but Aria says she thinks she’s just going to go to bed. Ella comments that this morning Aria said that she wanted to watch that particular movie and that’s why they got it, before asking her if everything is okay. Aria tells Ella that it is, and thinking for a moment, she says they should just watch the movie, and she’ll rally. Sitting down on the couch, Aria looks uncomfortable as Ella and Zack sit down on either side of her.

March of Crimes

In Vice Principal Hackett’s office, Lieutenant Tanner asks Aria when she first met Mr Fitz. Glancing briefly towards Ella, Aria claps her hands together and tells Tanner she met him first day of class junior year. As Tanner says that to Aria’s principal’s knowledge she engaged in an intimate relationship with Mr Fitz after he was no longer a teacher at the school, Aria glances towards Ella before Ella cuts in and asks what the questions have to do with the break in at the Marin house. Tanner asks Aria if she was aware of Mr Fitz was seeing any other students socially, students like Shana Fring, and when Aria wonders what Tanner is saying, Tanner questions if it is possible that Mr Fitz had intimate relations with other students. When Ella asks how Aria would know that, Aria strongly voices “no”. As Tanner begins to ask if Aria ever recalls seeing Mr Fitz interacting with Shana, Aria cuts her off, “he didn’t serial date students. He wasn’t some creep that was prowling the school hallways hitting on girls”, to which Tanner reminds her that they are just questions.

Walking through the school hallway, Ella tries to get Aria to slow down, but Aria says that she’s late to class. Noel walks passed and greets Aria before doing the same with Ella and turning, Aria walks him walk off down the hall. Ella says that Aria cannot lose her cool when she’s asks the questions Lieutenant Tanner posed, and turning her attention back, Aria says that “those weren’t questions, mom. Ezra is on her hit list and she’s wrong”. Ella says that it’s her job to find out as much as possible, but after Aria begs “please not you too”, Ella comments that sometimes people do have blind spots when it comes to the people that they love. Furrowing her brows, Aria says that she really needs to get to class, she’s already skipping 5th period to help set up for the party.

Sitting at a table in the courtyard, Aria is messaging Ezra, “don’t rush back. Tanner had lots of ??? about you. All about Shana”. After spotting Hanna walking into the courtyard, Aria grabs her bag off of the table and walking past Hanna, she leaves.

On the phone with Emily, Aria opens the Montgomery front door while asking her if she thinks someone helped Jenna mess with the eye chart. As Aria notices Ella and Zack start to walk into the living room, she tells Emily that they’ll talk about it at the party, “well not at the party, but soon”. Ella asks if she was able to get more candles, and Aria says that she did, but they only had scented ones. Ella comments that she has to leave for a hair appointment, and as she kisses Zack goodbye, Aria watches closely. When Zack asks if he can squeeze something into a box, Aria moves out of his way and over to the guest list where she updates the list, “Hanna can’t make it”. As Zack asks why not, Aria says that Hanna said she wasn’t feeling well and when Zack asks what is wrong with her, Aria pauses before shrugging, “I don’t know. That’s all she told me”. Watching for Zack’s reaction, Aria flickers her eyes from Zack to the list and back to Zack again.

In her bedroom, Aria is putting an earring in when Ella comes by and asks for her approval. Aria tells Ella that she looks amazing, and when Ella wonders if the necklace isn’t too much, Aria shrugs, telling her it’s perfect. As Ella starts to walk out, Aria calls out to her and asks if she’s sure she wants to do this, “I mean… maybe you should just wait”. Ella asks her what she should wait for, before saying that if Aria doesn’t want her to get married, but Aria says that it has nothing to do with her getting married, “it has to do with you marrying Zack”, before asking Ella how well she really knows him. Ella wonders why she is saying that, before asking if Zack was inappropriate with her, to which Aria tells her no, not with her, “maybe he was with Hanna”. When Ella walks further into Aria’s bedroom, Aria asks her why she went there right away, and Ella tells her that there was an incident before they came to Rosewood, but she guesses she just explained in a way to herself as pre-wedding jitters. Stepping towards her mom, Aria says that she’s “so sorry” and after Ella turns around, Ella says that she is to.

Knocking on the door of Caleb’s cabin, Aria mentions that she heard she could find Hanna here, before asking if she can come in. Walking in, Aria looks around the cabin and comments that “it’s nice”, to which Hanna tells her it could use a house keeper. Hanna says she thought Aria was supposed to be giving a toast right now, and when Aria doesn’t answer, Hanna asks what happened. Aria tells her “nothing that hasn’t happened before”, and apparently Zack is a big jerk internationally. After Hanna comments that she’s not trying to defend the guy, and that ‘A’ stoked the fire, Aria says that it doesn’t matter, “he took the bait”. Hanna wonders why Aria didn’t believe her, and Aria says it’s wasn’t so much she didn’t believe her, she just wanted to believe something else more. Going on Aria says she wanted to believe her mom could find someone again, “be happy”, and Hanna says that she gets that. Aria asks if Hanna will forgive her, and after Hanna nods, they share a hug.

A Dark Ali

In Alison’s bedroom, Aria and the other girls are shocked to hear that Alison said she didn’t know who her ‘kidnapper’ was, and therefore Cyrus Petrillo is still in police custody. Aria tells Alison that there is a man being questioned by the police right now for a crime that never happened, and Emily comments that this is all A’s doing. As Hanna and Spencer realise Cyrus’ story is the same as the one she told the doctor and Holbrook, Aria says that it doesn’t matter where ‘A’ got it, “what matters is what A’s planning to do now”. Alison mentions that if A’s behind it all, that’s who Cyrus is going to run to when he panics. When Hanna asks what Alison is saying, Alison says that if she can make him think he’s going down for the kidnapping, they can follow him to ‘A’ and finally win A’s game. Aria tells Alison that it’s great, “we win the game we find out who A is. What happens when we lose?”

Walking out of the DiLaurentis house, Hanna wonders if it’s weird they haven’t got a text message from ‘A’ yet, to which Aria says that she doesn’t need a creepy text to read the writing on the wall. Aria goes on to say that the second Alison identifies this guy they’re going to find out Cyrus Petrillo is a sheep farmer in Montana and he couldn’t have possibly kidnapped her and then the whole world is going to know Alison is a big fat liar. Hanna adds that they will be outed as liars as well, and that right now they’re just as big and fat as she is. Aria mentions that once Tanner finds out the kidnapping story is a lie, they’re going to figure out about New York and Shana real quick. Aria mentions that someone needs to go back in and make sure that Alison doesn’t “this guy”, and Hanna is quick to nominate Emily. When Spencer agrees, Emily points out that Spencer is the convincing one, but Aria tells Emily that she is the hardest to disappoint. After Emily has walked off, Hanna asks Aria how her mom is, and Aria says that she’s heartbroken. As Hanna comments that it’s so awful, first Aria’s dad cheats on her mom and then her mom’s sleaze bag boyfriend hits on her, Spencer tells Hanna that Aria was there and she doesn’t need a play-by-play. Hanna apologises, and after Aria says thanks, she asks if Hanna needs a ride. When Hanna notices Spencer toying with an envelope in her bag, she asks what it is, and Spencer explains that it’s Noel Kahn’s insurance policy. As Aria reaches for the envelope, Spencer says it’s everything Shana gave to Jenna that proves Alison was dead. Going through the envelope, Aria mentions that Tanner would sure love to get her hands on this, “Ali talking to Shana when she was supposed to be dead”. Aria asks Spencer if Alison knows about it, and Spencer tells her no, and that she’s headed to her house to stash it. As Aria wonders if it’s safe for it to be in her house, Spencer tells her that she as a spot. As she’s about to get into her car, Aria tells Spencer to be careful, and Spencer tells her that she will.

Walking into the Montgomery living room while Ella is on the phone cancelling a banquet hall, Aria comments that she doesn’t need to do that right now, but Ella tells her she just wants to get it over with. Saying that Mike said she hasn’t eaten at all, Aria offers Ella a plate of food, “it’s pesto mozzarella. It’s your favourite”, and while Ella says that it was incredibly sweet of her to make it, she doesn’t think she’s up to eating. When Aria sits down on the couch, Ella says that she should have seen it coming, she was too old for him, too trusting, but Aria tells her that it has nothing to do with her age. Aria says that it wasn’t Ella’s fault, but Ella tells her that there were signs, and she just drove right past them because she wanted to believe that it could work, that he could change. Aria mentions that Ella was the one who taught her that second chances exist, “your bliss is still ahead of you”, but Ella tells Aria that when she said that, she was talking about Zack. Aria offers to call the rest of the numbers on Ella’s list as the last thing she needs to do is recount her break up to a bunch of strangers.

In Aria’s bedroom, Spencer tells Aria to just watch the bushes as they look through the surveillance footage of the Hastings’ backyard. When Aria asks “who is that?”, Spencer tells her to just watch. Watching as Melissa comes out of the barn, Aria questions that Melissa just gave the guy something, Spencer says that that’s not all, and zooming in on the footage, she tells Aria to watch what Melissa is saying. Aria asks when the video was recorded and Spencer tells her three nights ago, less than 24 hours before Cyrus Petrillo confessed. Aria wonders if Spencer thinks the guy in the Hastings’ backyard is Alison’s fake kidnapper, “that Melissa saw the recording and gave it to him?”. When Spencer says they already know Melissa is working for Mona, so why not ‘A’ to, Aria tells her, “because it’s going to make my head explode. That’s why”. Aria wonders if Spencer thinks Melissa sent her that text, and Spencer tells her maybe and that she always liked chess. Spencer says that they cannot take any more chances and that they have to cut the cord with Alison before she drags them down with her. Aria asks what Spencer is saying, and Spencer tells her that they use what they got from Noel, the pictures and the conversation with Shana because they prove that Alison was alive and decidedly un-kidnapped for the past two years. Aria questions how that help them, and Spencer tells her that they go to Tanner and they tell her the truth, that they thought that Alison was dead up until Ravenswood and the only thing they know about the past two years is whatever Alison told them. Aria wonders about New York, “we can’t just come half clean”, and Spencer says that she knows, and that they tell Tanner what happened there to, that it was self-defense and that Aria was protecting them, that’s the truth. Aria says that the truth doesn’t amount to much when it comes from a bunch of liars, “the whole reason I’m freaking out about this Cyrus is that it could lead Tanner to the Theater”. When Aria questions that Spencer wants to beat ‘A’ to the punch, Spencer tells her that it’s better if the police find out from them.

In Ezra’s apartment, Ezra questions if Alison is going to say that Cyrus is guilty and Aria tells him yeah, and that she thinks that he’s going to lead her to ‘A’, “when really A’s going to make this whole confession lead Tanner back to us”. Ezra comments that Alison wouldn’t do that, she’s crazy but she’s not stupid, and Aria tells him that she thought so to, but a whole day has passed and this guy is still sitting in jail. Looking around the apartment, Aria asks that everything to gone, “the book, the research, the photos of Ali. All of it? Because if Tanner comes here…”, and cutting in, Ezra reminds her that she was the one who sent over Spencer to help him move everything. Ezra asks where she is, and when Aria questions “who, Spencer?”, Ezra tells her no, Alison. Aria asks why and when Ezra tells Aria that she wants to talk with her, Aria tells him no, “no you’re not”. Saying that he just got his stitches out and he’s about to take a bike ride for the first time in god knows how long, Aria mentions that he just got the all clear from his doctor and that he’s okay again, “you’re really okay, and… no, I’m not going to allow you to jump back on Ali’s crazy train. Not with Tanner circling and ‘A’ watching out every move. No”. As Ezra tries to speak, Aria cuts him off, telling him to promise her that he want speak to Alison, “please. I like knowing that you’re safe”, before Ezra tells her okay, he promises.

At The Brew, Aria, who is grabbing a box of the decorations from the engagement party that never happened, stops when she notices Ezra talking to Alison. After Ezra gets up to leave, he stops when he sees Aria and the two share a look.

Putting the box of decorations into her car, Aria asks Ezra what he said to Alison. When Ezra says that he told Alison that her actions have consequences, Aria wonders, “what about yours?”, before questioning if he was even listening when she asked him not to talk with Alison. After Ezra tells her yes, he was, Aria comments that he sought her out anyway. Ezra begins explaining himself, and as Aria struggles to close the trunk of her car, he offers to help her close it, but Aria tells him she’s got it. Stepping back, Ezra says that he didn’t seek Alison out, he saw her and he made a split decision to walk over, and Aria comments, “right in the middle of town. Right in front of her dad”. Aria questions what if Tanner saw him, and when she figures out he and Alison are connected, it is over, “you get that right?” As Aria is going through the trunk, pulling at one of the boxes, Ezra apologises and says that he was just trying to help and the only way he knew how…, but cutting him off, Aria turns back, “by lying to me?”, to which Ezra tells her by talking with Alison. Turning back to him again, Aria tells him that it was the one thing she asked him not to do. As Aria and Ezra crouch down to pick up some decorations that fell out of the trunk, Ezra asks her why she’s this upset. After looking at a photo of Ella and Zack, Aria looks up to Ezra, and gathering the decorations they’re both holding, she puts them in the trunk and after closing it, she walks to the driver side and gets in.

Sitting on her bed while on the phone, Aria tells Emily that she’s the one who is confusing things and that she can’t trust Ezra, she doesn’t, “people don’t just change because you want them to”. As Ella knocks on the door, Aria asks Emily if she can call her back and hangs up, before commenting that she heard that Ella went out. Aria asks Ella what is in the bag she’s carrying, and Ella mentions that it’s her attempt at jump starting her single life, and that she may have gone a little overboard. Placing the bag on Aria’s bed, Ella pulls out a skirt and asks Aria is she would wear it. Aria tells her that she would, and that’s why Ella shouldn’t, to which Ella says that she thought so. Ella questions if Aria is talking again, to Ezra, and Aria tells her that it was just Emily on the phone, “but yeah, we’re uh, we’re talking”. As Ella sits down her the bed, she tells Aria that she through two boxes of tissues yesterday and bared her soul about thirteen times, so Aria can talk to her. Aria tells her mom that she thought he was gone, “really gone”, and the whole time he was in hospital, she was just making up this list of the things that she would tell him if she just got one more chance. Going on, Aria says that now that he’s okay, “and I’m so glad that he’s okay”, but she’s stuck with that list, “and there’s all these thoughts and all these feelings that are just bashing around in my head every single time that I see him”. Gathering her thoughts, Aria mentions that she want to be able to trust him again, just start over, “but you’re right, people don’t change”. Ella says that it’s not true, people can change and she knows this because she’s changed, Aria’s changed, even Byron has changed. Ella mentions that Byron was the one who got her up off the couch this morning by cooking ricotta pancakes and it’s a small thing, but he used to be incapable of making anything in a skillet without turning it black. Aria cuts in, telling Ella that she doesn’t have to try and make her feel better, and taking Aria’s hands in hers, Ella says that she doesn’t know what happened with Ezra, but she does know that Zack is not going to write the book on relationships in their family, not if she has anything to say about it. Aria’s phone rings with an incoming text from Hanna, “S.O.S. Ali ID’ed Cyrus. Need to meet.” and as Aria reads the message, Ella asks if that’s him, Ezra.

In the Marin kitchen, Aria questions what Melissa said, “that sooner or later Alison is going to get what she deserves?”, and Spencer tells her yeah, and that Melissa basically admitted that ‘A’ has something terrible in store for Alison, and them. Spencer mentions that it’s not too late, they can go to Tanner and tell her the truth about Alison, and Aria says that she knows, “you’ve mentioned that like 16 times already”. As Hanna walks into the kitchen, she asks Aria if here is any word on Emily, to which Aria tells her no, yet not. Spencer mentions that she said this might happen, but she still can’t believe it, and after Aria comments “Ali walking into an ‘A’ trap with both eyes open”, she says that she can’t either. As Emily walks in, Aria asks if she’s okay, before Emily tells Spencer that she was right, they can’t trust Alison, not after tonight. When Aria questions, “not you to”, Emily hands her the envelope of photos and says that she knows it affects her more than the rest of them, but she really hopes Aria can get on board and that they need to cut ties with Alison now, tonight.

No One Here Can Love or Understand Me

Walking towards the Rosewood Police Department, Aria and the other girls stop across the street and look towards the precinct. Aria comments that it seems as though they’ve been here before, to which Hanna says that they’ll get it right this time. When Emily comments that this time is different, Spencer mentions that after this, Alison is on her own. As the girls start to cross the street, Emily notices the television screens in the shopfront behind them flickering and tells them all to wait. Walking back towards the shop, security footage of Alison leaving Hanna’s hospital room start playing, before a message materialises over the images, “we’re all in this together. A”. Emily says that they can’t tell now, and when Aria questions “why not?”, Hanna tells her because no one will believe that they didn’t know Alison was alive. As Spencer picks up a brick and runs towards the shopfront, Aria and the other girls yell out to her and stop her from smashing the window, “Spencer, put down the brick. Put it down”. When the Alison security footage suddenly changes to the girls standing on the sidewalk looking at the shop window, they start to head back in the direction they originally came from.

Arriving home, Aria finds Mike and Mona sitting on the living room floor and irritably greets them. Looking up, Mike and Mona greet her, before Mona asks Mike if he wants some more hot chocolate. Standing up, Mona asks Aria if she too would like a hot chocolate, but Aria tells her no, and walks through the living room towards the stairs.

Sitting on her bed, Aria is doing some homework when Byron knocks on her door and asks if she needs anything. When Aria tells him that she’s okay, Byron explains that Mike took Mona home. As he starts to leave, Aria calls out to him and comments that Mike and Mona is a very bad idea. As he steps back into Aria’s bedroom, Byron says that he likes her and she seems to like him, to which Aria questions “seems to?” Byron says that he understands that Aria and Mona have more than the usual amount of history, but she knows what will happen if either one of them tries to talk to Mike, and Aria says she does, “he’ll double down”. Byron suggests that they keep an eye on the situation, but keep their distance, and Aria tells him that she’ll try. As he is leaving, Byron reminds Aria that Ella is coming back from Scranton in the morning and that they have tickets for tomorrow night. When Byron comments that it will be just the four of them and it’s been a long time since they’ve done that, Aria says that it’s been “too long”.

At Aria’s locker in school the next day, Hanna tells Aria that Mike deserves way better than Mona. Aria says that if she tries to tell Mike that Mona isn’t who he’s looking for, but before she can finish Emily does for her saying that you won’t be able to separate them with a crowbar. Closing her locker, Aria and the girls start to walk down the hallway as Hanna announces that she’s had a bad thought. Aria questions why Hanna should be any different, “share”, and Hanna says that ‘A’ doesn’t want them telling the truth about Alison because they’d like to see them suffer, but who besides ‘A’ wants to keep them quiet. When Aria suggests Mona, Hanna tells her not Mona, and after Aria questions who’s left, Emily mentions Alison. As the school bell rings, Aria says that she has to go and walks past the girls and into the courtyard.

Walking down the street, Aria and Emily listen as Hanna tells them that the note Melissa left for Spencer said that Spencer would know everything soon. Emily asks what that’s supposed to mean, and Aria says that it means what it always means, “nobody tells you anything when you want to know it, only when they feel like telling it”, to which Hanna says that they only tell you enough to make you crazy to know more. Emily wonders if anyone has talked to Alison and Aria mentions that Alison calls but she doesn’t pick up. Hanna mentions that she’s had another bad thought, before saying that Alison left town, but ‘A’ said she couldn’t, so what changed. Aria says that Alison made a deal with Noel, “maybe she made a deal with somebody else”, and Emily questions if Aria thinks Alison made a deal with ‘A’ to leave town. Emily questions what kind of a deal Alison would have made, but Aria or Hanna have an explanation. Aria, Hanna and Emily all turn around when they hear Lieutenant Tanner’s voice greeting them, before the Lieutenant comments that it’s lucky to get most of them at the same time, and that she was hoping that they could talk, her treat.

Sitting down at an outdoor table with coffees, Aria and the girls listen as Tanner tells that that if they’re concerned about the suspect who was released prematurely and she wants to assure them that they will catch him. As Emily says that it’s good to know, Tanner tells them to take reasonable precautions and report anything out of the ordinary, and let the police decide what’s relevant, to which Aria says that they will. As Tanner gets up to leave, Aria shares a quick look with Emily, before Tanner turns back and questions who the girls think killed Bethany Young. Aria mentions that she hasn’t given it much thought, something which surprising Tanner, and Emily says that none of them knew Bethany Young. After Tanner has walked away, Aria comments that she thinks she’s going to be sick, and as Hanna places a hand on her shoulder, Emily tells her to just hold it until Tanner’s out of sight.

Entering the movie theater, Aria heads down the steps to her family and as she gets to their aisle, she notices Mona sitting next to Mike. As Mike says that she made it, Aria tells him yeah, “sorry I’m late”, before Byron explains that her mom had to cancel. Mona comments that it’s lucky for her and patting the seat next to her, Aria sits. Turning to Byron, the two share a look, before Aria sits back in her chair and silently fumes. As the doors of the theater open, Aria looks over her shoulder and watches as Paige and her date make their way to their seats. As the film begins, Aria looks disapprovingly towards Mona and Mike.

As the film is showing, Aria glances towards a cosy Mona and Mike, and after turning back towards the film, she leans across to Mona and whispers something in Mona’s ear. After Mona has excused herself, Mikes looks towards Aria who just shrugs and focuses back on the film.

Aria is watching the film, before glancing towards Mike who is looking around, waiting for Mona to return. After he gives the theater doors another look, Mike leans over to Aria whispers that Mona has been gone a long time, and Aria says that she’ll go and check on her.

Walking into the ladies room, Aria calls out to Mona who in turn tells Aria that she is very good, she knows where to put the knife and she’s not afraid to twist it. When Mona says that Alison underestimated her, Aria says that she’s sorry, but Mona tells her not to insult her. Going on, Mona says that Aria is right, Byron should hate her after all things she’s done to Aria and the way she’s treated Mike. As Mona says that maybe she should have just died when she fell off the stupid cliff, Aria tells her not to say that, “Mona, don’t ever say that”. Mona explains that she was just trying to protect herself, that’s all she’s ever been doing, trying to protect herself from her. Aria asks Mona if that’s why she built an army, and Mona says that it’s hard to keep the troops in line when Alison offers them candy and a smile and that lilting little laugh. Mona tells Aria that maybe she won’t believe this, but she’s going to say it anyway, when Alison finishes with her she’ll come after Aria and the others, she can’t trust them anymore, not after Cyrus, and not after New York. Taking a step closer, Aria asks “what about New York?”, and Mona says that she knows some things, and she can guess at some others. Mona says that she has to ask Aria something, and when Aria asks her what, Mona questions if she thinks Mike really likes her.

Walking into the Montgomery living room, Aria asks Byron if Mike is back from dropping off Mona. Byron tells her no yet, before asking what happened, to which Aria says that they had a pretty long talk in the ladies. When Byron asks if anything got resolved, Aria tells him that “what’s said in the powder room stays in the powder room”, and that she thinks will be okay with Mike but they just have to keep an eye on her. As Byron tells Aria good, there is a knock on the front door. Aria asks who that is and Byron tells her that it is probably Lieutenant Tanner. As Aria questions, “Tanner? What is she doing here?”, Byron explains that she left a voice mail, and that she wanted to talk with him. Aria questions about what, and Byron says that’s what he’s going to find out now.

At the bottom of the stairs, Aria listens in on Byron and Tanner’s conversation and overhears Tanner telling Byron that she’s just been waiting for one of the girls to step up and say that they’re willing to tell her the truth, and now one of them has.

In Spencer’s bedroom, Emily tells Aria that she’s not talking with Tanner, and when says that she isn’t either, Aria says that she didn’t think it was them. Emily asks where Hanna is and Spencer says that she called all of them but Hanna’s phone went to voice mail. Aria says that it’s not Hanna, and Spencer realises it has to be Alison, to which Emily says that maybe they can stop her. As Aria asks how, Emily grabs a piece of paper showing Cyrus facing the bank ATM camera, and passes it to Spencer who passes it to Aria. When Spencer asks where she got the photo, Emily tells her Ezra, and seeing the look on Aria’s face, she questions who else was going to help them. Aria mentions that it’s the end of Alison’s kidnap story if they use “this”, and Emily tells her maybe, it just depends on what truth she decides to tell this time. Spencer tells Aria and Emily that she has to show them something and that it can’t wait for Hanna.

After Aria and Emily watch Melissa’s video, Spencer explains that she just got it today and that it took her a while to decide whether or not to show it to them. Aria comments that “Melissa killed Bethany Young”, but Spencer says that Melissa thought that she had just buried her and that Spencer was the one who killed her. Sitting down on Spencer’s bed, Aria comments that the police think they all had something to do with this, and Emily makes mentions that when Melissa saw Bethany she was wearing Alison’s clothes. Spencer says that it was another set of Alison’s clothes, and that there had to be a duplicate set as Alison wasn’t walking around naked. Aria questions if it was always somebody’s idea that Bethany take Alison’s place, and Spencer says for them to tell her another way that Bethany ends up in that yellow top. Emily says that they need to figure out a way around that picture of ‘A’ in the hospital or they’re busted, to which Aria asks “what picture of A?” Emily says the picture of Alison, but Aria tells her “no, you said a picture of A”. Emily tries to deny it that’s what she said, and when Spencer tells her that yeah she did, Emily says that it was a slip of the tongue. As Spencer takes USB from her laptop, Aria asks her what she’s going to do.

Taking This One to the Grave

Standing by a police vehicle as a house is taped off as a crime scene, Aria and Ezra, along with Hanna and Emily, stand huddled together, visibly upset and shaken. Officer Barry Maple approaches them and says that he’ll take their statements now, one at a time. Clutching onto the inside of Ezra’s unzipped jacket, Aria turns into his chest, telling him that he saw the amount of blood in there, “there’s no way anyone could have lived through that”. Aria, Hanna and Emily’s cell phones ring with an incoming text, and Emily reads it aloud, “it’s all your fault. –A”.

Aria, Hanna, Emily and Spencer stand in the foyer of Mona’s house, waiting for Mona to come down from her bedroom. After Mona’s mother has left the girls to it, Mona questions why they are sporting grim faces, and if someone has died. After the four girls share a look, Hanna tells Mona that they need her help. After quick looking to see where her mother is, Mona asks what she did to them, to which Hanna says that she has done nothing… yet. Aria mentions that they think it’s about what she’s about to do, to which Emily says they’ve just found out Alison is at the police station and that she’s talking to the cops, and Mona realises that the girls don’t know what Alison to telling the police. Hanna says that they’ve been lying for Alison ever since she got back, and therefore they need to know what story she’s telling the cops. Confused, Mona asks why they don’t just ask Alison, to which Emily says that they don’t believe that Alison will tell them the truth. Mona questions why they think that they can help them, and after the liars exchange a look with one another, Aria comments, “because you’re Mona”.

Aria and the other girls listen as Mona tells them that Alison stole her life from her when she crowned Mona, Rosewood’s biggest loser. Mona goes on to explain that she’s already number one on Alison’s hit list, and she’s afraid of what Alison would do if she found out she was siding with the Liars. As Aria, Spencer, Emily and Hanna start to stand up, Mona asks them if they’ve ever been so focused on something that it takes over everything else, turns you into someone that you’re not. Pausing slightly, Mona says that she took all her Ali anger out on the Liars and she’s sorry for that. In the foyer as Aria, Emily and Spencer wait for Hanna to get some cookies, Aria asks Spencer if she’s figured out what she’s going to do with Melissa’s going away present. When Spencer says that Melissa sent her that video, she wanted Spencer to know the truth, her confession doesn’t actually help any of them, Emily comments that Melissa said it out loud, she buried Bethany, and she was the one to kill her. Exasperated, Spencer says that Melissa thought she was the one who hit Bethany and when Aria says that Spencer didn’t, “we all know that”, Spencer says that it doesn’t matter, in Melissa’s story, she an accessory to murder.

In the girls bathroom at Rosewood High, Mona tells Spencer, Emily, Hanna and Aria that Alison volunteered to take the polygraph. Emily asks how she knows that, to which Aria, Hanna and Spencer tell her that she’s Mona. Mona suggests that Alison may be playing a game, to which Aria questions whether Mona thinks Alison took the lie detector test for fun. Mona says that she thinks Alison took it because she’s not having fun anymore, and that Alison can’t play with her dolls if the girls won’t let her. After Mona says that Alison is ending the game, the came she stole from her, Aria questions Mona if she thinks that Alison is ‘A’, and Mona nods, telling the Liars that Alison assembled the perfect group - smart, loyal, admiring, and compassionate. Aria asks what the perfect group is for, before Spencer realises that it’s the perfect group for a sociopath to manipulate. Looking downcast, Aria says that she always wondered why Alison chose her, “what made me so special”, and Mona tells her that when you don’t feel anything, it must be really fun to mess with somebody who feels a lot. Going on, Mona says that Alison picked Aria because Aria cares, and she can’t. Emily questions if they’re really saying that Alison’s ‘A’ out loud, before adding that Alison never really loved her, to which Aria mentions that she never loved any of them. Spencer tells the girls that if Mona is right, if Alison is ending the game because they cut her off, then she went to the cops to convince them that she’s innocent, and the Liars are the guilty ones. When Aria asks what they’re guilty of, Mona tells her that Alison will say they’re guilty of everything. Mona says that she can find out what Alison told the cops, and maybe it’ll give the Liars a fighting chance to get their story straight. Hanna asks Mona why she’s help them, and Mona explains that she’s got early acceptance letters from three colleges, but she has to survive senior year, and she can’t do it alone. Mona tells them that no one can know that she’s doing this, otherwise the deal is off, and that includes their bed buddies. Mona tells them to do whatever they were going to do today and to act normal. As Cindy and Mindy walk into the bathroom, Aria and the other girls try to make themselves discreet.

In Ezra’s apartment, Aria tells Ezra that he has “pumpkin guts” on his face, and when he tries to wipe it away, she grabs a tea towel and does it for him. Watching as Ezra removes the innards from a pumpkin, Aria tells him that they can just go to Paula’s and buy the pies. Ezra tells her no, this is his grandmother’s recipe, and it’s way better than Paula’s. Aria mentions that Granny Rose uses Libby’s canned pie mix and puts it in a frozen shell, “the Montgomery’s never know the difference”, but Ezra points out that this is the first time the Montgomery’s have invited him over for Thanksgiving. After Ezra adds that Aria’s mother assigned him with pie duty so he’s not taking it lightly, Aria tells him that they’re not going to have enough time to judge his baking, “they’ll be too busy judging you”. When Ezra gives her a deer in the headlights look, Aria tells him that is why he was invited, her family knows they’re spending a lot of time together and they want to make sure he’s worth a second look. Laughing, Ezra says that he’s starting to feel like a used car, and questions whether her family are going to kick his tyres and check under his hood. Shrugging, Aria tells him that if Aunt Sarah gets drunk, she may check under his hood, and her Uncle Danny will ask him to arm wrestle, “just say no”. Going on, Aria tells Ezra that he’s going to love Granny though, “if you can get passed the long chin hairs, you won’t mind that she toots a lot”. As Ezra shudders, Aria tells him that she’s joking, “Granny plucks her chin hairs”, and the two sharing a smiling behind the eyes look. In the Hastings’ kitchen, Aria, Spencer, Hanna, Emily and Mona watch Alison’s polygraph test where she says that Aria, Hanna and Emily were in the barn that night and that they were all still asleep when she left. When asked where she last saw Spencer Hastings, Alison says that Spencer came to her house. The conductor questions that Alison was the leader of the group, and Alison tells him she unofficially was. He proceeds to ask if her friends would do anything to help her, if she needed them, and Alison comments that she thinks so. When asked if Spencer was a loyal friend, Alison says she was as far as she knew. The conductor proceeds to ask why Spencer was at Alison’s house, and Alison says that it was her fault and that she pushed Spencer to that place. When asked what place, Alison explains that Spencer was angry. The conductor asks whether Alison knew that Spencer was abusing amphetamines, and when Alison tells him that she found out that night, he questions if that’s because Spencer was under the influence, to which Alison says that Spencer dropped her pills and that she saw what they were. Alison is then asked if she would say that Spencer was desperate, and when Alison asks what for, the conductor questions if Spencer was desperate enough for Alison to keep her secret. Alison explains that Spencer was emotional, but Alison promised her that she wouldn’t say anything. The conductor questions what in return for Alison’s silence was Spencer willing to do, to which Alison says that she wouldn’t know, they never discussed it again. The conductor then proceeds to ask if there is something else Alison would like to tell him, and Alison takes the opportunity to say that she didn’t have anything to do with Bethany Young’s murder.

Aria listens as Emily comments that nothing Alison said was really that incriminating, however, Mona says that she thinks that the questions they’re asking tells them more about their investigation than what Alison’s answers do. After Caleb walks in and Mona explains that she asked for Caleb’s help, Emily asks if there are any other helpers coming, to which Aria quickly states, “No. I didn’t tell my bed buddy”, and Spencer says that she didn’t either. Caleb tells the girls that he unlocked two more files, and as the girls gather around his laptop, Caleb explains that the cops gained access to Bethany’s Radley files yesterday. While Caleb says that he couldn’t open that link, he did find an affidavit that Holbrook sent today. Aria reads aloud, “we no longer consider Alison DiLaurentis a person of interest in Young’s murder investigation”, before questioning if Alison is totally off the hook. Caleb then tells her yeah, and Spencer’s now on it. Emily reads aloud that the information the cops obtained from Bethany Young’s hospital records inform the theory they’ve been working since day one - Spencer Hastings murdered Young to gain favour with the group’s leader, Alison. Aria questions why the cops would think that Alison wanted Bethany dead, but her question goes unanswered. As Spencer goes to call her parents, and Emily says that she thinks they should find out what the police found in Bethany’s files, Spencer tells the Liars that this is on her, and that they don’t have to do anything else. Hanna tells Spencer that they’re going to stick together, and Aria adds “yeah, because that’s what we do”, before the Liars rally around Spencer.

In an Art class at Radley, Aria tells Sandy that her painting is “beautiful” and that she loves the colours she has chosen. When Aria notices Spencer and Mona, who are dressed as nurses, she looks over to the nursing station before nodding for them to move forward. Knocking a jar of red paint to the ground, Aria mutters, “oh god”, before telling the nurse from the nursing station that she’s so sorry, “this was totally all my fault. Wow”. Saying that her middle name should have been Clutz, Aria grabs the paper towel that the nurse has passed her. Looking over the nurse’s shoulder to see that Mona and Spencer haven’t quite reached the nurse station, she stalls the nurse by saying that she actually wanted to be a dancer growing up, but then she realised that she was on the shorter side, “so career crisis averted”. As the nurse stands back up to leave, Aria again tells her that she’s sorry.

Aria is cleaning up the spill of red paint when two feet come into her field of vision, and Detective Holbrook comments that she’s made quite a mess of things. As Aria stands up, Holbrook comments that he didn’t know that she worked at Radley. Aria tells him that it’s not a job, “I volunteer”. Holbrook tells Aria that it’s admirable, to which Aria tells him that she better get back to the patients as they might need some more supplies. As Aria begins to walk off, Holbrook stops her, saying that he’s just curious, before asking when it all started. Turning back to face him, Aria asks Holbrook “what?”, before she envisions him saying, the lies, the cover ups, the murders. Holbrook wonders when Aria’s volunteer program started, and Aria tells him a few weeks ago. Holbrook questions if Aria has an interest in the mental health profession, and she tells him that she loves art and she loves helping people. Holbrook then goes on to ask if she volunteered before or after the police identified Bethany’s body. Aria tells Holbrook that he doesn’t sound just curious anymore, “should I call my parents?”, to which Holbrook tells her no, not yet. Turning to leave, Holbrook begins to take a step before pausing and asking Aria whether her volunteer work Spencer’s idea. After Aria firmly tells him “no”, Holbrook walks off.

As Aria gets in Hanna’s car, Hanna asks her what Holbrook is doing at Radley, and Aria tells her that he’s asking questions about Spencer.

In the Brew on Thanksgiving, Aria tells Spencer that what happened to Toby is not her fault. After Spencer tells the girls that he’s going to be in a cast for about a month, Aria asks how much Toby knows, and Spencer tells Aria that she told Toby everything. Paige walks up to the girls wanting to talk to Emily, before explaining to them all that she saw Alison leaving Emily’s house last night, and that Cindy and Mindy were her ride. Going on, Paige says that she followed them to an abandoned farm, before announcing that Alison is building an army of her own. Suddenly, Detective Holbrook walks into the Brew and announces that Spencer is under the arrest for the murder of Bethany Young. Aria watches on shocked as Spencer is placed in handcuffs, before joining in a chorus with Emily and Hanna who plead Spencer’s innocence.

Ezra tells Aria that he knows they don’t need the pies they baked, but he figured someone may get hungry, when Aria lets him into her house. Closing the front door, Aria tells Ezra that her mom is still on the phone with Veronica, “they haven’t seen her yet. Spencer’s still getting processed”. Ezra assures Aria that the Hastings’ are working on Spencer’s bail, and that they’ll get her out of their in no time. Aria’s phone rings with an incoming call, and picking it up, Aria announces that it’s Mona. Aria listens as Mona explains that Alison lured Bethany to Rosewood. When Aria asks why, Mona explains that Alison knew about the affair, and that Alison set her up. Going on, Mona says that Alison was jealous, and she wanted Bethany dead”. Mona then tells Aria that Alison is ‘A’, and now she can prove it. Ending the call, Aria tells Ezra to grab his coat, and when he asks her where they’re going, Aria tells him that they’re going to Mona’s, “she found proof. Ali’s A”.

Walking into the Vanderwaal residence, Aria, Hanna, Emily and Ezra are shocked to see Mona’s house trashed with hand prints of blood in the entryway, “what the hell”.

Standing by a police vehicle as the Vanderwaal house is taped off as a crime scene, Aria and Ezra, along with Hanna and Caleb, and Emily and Paige, stand huddled together, visibly upset and shaken. Caleb listen on as Detective Holbrook tells the waiting press that while the investigation is ongoing, they have ruled what has happened a homicide and that Mona Vanderwaal was murdered.

How the 'A' Stole Christmas

The Liars are walking down the main street of Rosewood, when Aria asks Spencer what she got for Toby. Spencer reminds her that she’s abstaining from Christmas this year, and that when you’re out on bail for murder, it just feels like the right thing to do. Spencer says that instead of giving gifts to each other, she and Toby have agreed to surprise each other with a gesture. Hanna then asks if the gesture is like the clowns, and when Emily asks what clowns, Hanna says court jesters before asking if they’re clowns, and everyone laughs in response. After having briefly stopped at the snowflake wishing tree, Emily comments that they live in an ‘A’ world, and that they still haven’t found Mona’s body. Spencer mentions that it’s because ‘A’ likes to bury the bodies herself, and Aria adds that she then throws Ice Balls, “I swear Alison is throwing this party to rub it in our faces – ‘I ruined your lives, and now I’m the belle of the ball’”. Spencer reminds Aria that technically Alison only ruined her life, and Emily comments that if she ruins one of them, she ruins all of them. Spotting a flyer for the DiLaurentis Christmas Eve Ice Ball, Aria comments that she’d rather dance on dead monkeys than go to Ali’s stupid Ice Ball, to which Spencer questions Aria’s phrase of dead monkeys. Spotting a guy looking at them, Aria questions if he’s a reporter or a cop, and Spencer tells her neither, the pen he’s holding is too nice, and her money’s on him being a lawyer. As the man approaches Hanna and passes an information card, Spencer peers over Hanna shoulder and tells Aria that she told her so when it’s revealed he is a lawyer in charge of Mona Vanderwaal’s affairs. The lawyer hands Hanna an envelope and after he leaves, Hanna comments she’s too afraid to open it, so Emily does, while Aria and the other look on curiously. Emily says that the papers inside are drawings of Alison’s house, and Aria adds that it also includes all of Alison’s hiding places. As Santa walks past the Liars, Aria calls him back and after places some money in his bucket, she receives a snow globe. Shaking the snow globe up, Aria finds a photo of the Liars inside, “Oh my god!”, before turning the snow globe over and finding a message from ‘A’, “A takes a holiday. You should too”.

Aria hands out cookies to the residents of Shady Days Nursing Home as they listen to the school choir sing some Christmas songs. As Aria goes to place the tray of cookies back on a table with other food, Ezra steps out from behind a Christmas Tree, and mentions that while he knows she wanted to keep it low key these holidays, he got her something for tonight. Aria asks if it’s an “Ali decoder ring”, and after Ezra chuckles, she opens the gift box to find a pair of dangling diamond earrings, “Ezra, they’re beautiful. Thank you”. Ezra then says that Mandi at the boutique said the earrings might to go well with the second present he gifts Aria with. Placing the earring on the table, Aria takes the larger present and comments that if is low key, she’s afraid to ask what “full on Christmas” looks like at the Fitzgerald house. Ezra tells her not ask because it’s like asking for how many ponies can you get. Shocked, Aria asks “seriously?”, and when Ezra coyly says no, Aria calls him out, and Ezra tells her that he got two ponies, but he only asked for one.

Aria walks past Emily and Paige and tells them to look up as they’re standing under a piece of mistletoe.

At the Masquerade Ice Ball, Aria, Emily, Spencer and Hanna stand under a lit up gazebo. When Hanna comments that she still doesn’t see Alison anywhere, Aria says that she’s probably waiting to make her grand entrance, and Emily adds that Alison will have her arrival timed to the perfect song. As Spencer mentions that she’s going to have her picture taken with Santa Claus, Aria, Emily and Hanna head off together in another direction.

Aria and Ezra, along with Emily and Paige, and Hanna and Caleb, slow dance under the lit up gazebo, until everyone turns their attention to the top of the staircase. Walking to the edge of the gazebo, Aria, Ezra, the other couples and Spencer watch as Alison, followed by four other girls, make their grand entrance.

Standing in the crowd, Aria watches Alison as she walks into an area which has been draped off with fabric. Trailing her over to the room, Aria peaks in through a slit in the fabric and watches as someone dressed as Santa Claus embraces Alison in a kiss, “who is that?” Letting the fabric close, Aria moves back into the crowd.

Walking up to Emily and tapping her on the shoulder, Aria greets Emily, who questions if she’s supposed to be on ‘A’ watch. Aria tells Emily yeah, but she has to “see this”, and when Emily asks what it is, Aria says that she just saw Ali kissing Santa Claus. Grabbing Emily’s hand, Aria tells Emily to “come on”.

In the room where Aria spotted Alison kissing Santa, she tells Emily that they were “just here”. Emily asks if it was a guy or girl, and Aria tells her “guy”. Emily asks if she’s sure, only for Aria to tell her yeah, “I’m sure. I definitely got a sense of male butt”. Emily tells her okay, and that she’s going to go get her photo taken with Santa Claus.

Walking through the crowd, Aria begins to head in the direction of Ezra, Caleb and Paige, but is stopped by someone grabbing her shoulder. As Aria turns around, Holbrook tells her that she’s on his list, the naughty one. Holbrook says that he’s surprised to see Aria at the Ice Ball, to which Aria tells him she’s also surprised to see him. Holbrook mentions that it’s a charity ball, and he’s giving back to his community. Aria says she didn’t realise Rosewood was his community, and Holbrook tells her that the town has a lot to offer, and that it’s starting to grow on him. Aria comments that he’s “spoken like a guy who maybe met a girl that he likes”, before Holbrook questions what has brought Aria out tonight. Shrugging, Aria tells him that it’s the same as him, “feels good to give back”. As Holbrook comments that he doesn’t know why he has a hard time believing her, Aria says that her boyfriend is probably looking for her. As Aria turns to leave, Holbrook comments that she’s wearing a pretty dress, and that she should tell Ezra that he think he has good taste. Aria watches with slightly squinted eyes as Holbrook turns and walks away.

Aria, Ezra, Emily, Caleb and Paige discuss the possibility that Holbrook was the one who Alison was kissing. Noticing a look on Ezra’s face, Aria asks him, “Ezra, what is it?”, before Ezra says that if Holbrook is helping Alison, he wants to know when it started. Aria then listens as Emily says that CeCe showed up in New York that night, and Alison helped get her out of the country. The group watches as Alison and someone dressed in a white coat and hood walk towards the exit, before Holbrook starts to follow. Caleb tells Aria and Emily to follow Ali, while he and Ezra follow Holbrook, and Paige adds that she’ll grab Lucas.

Aria and Emily follow Ezra and Caleb as the boys bail Holbrook up, and the girls keep on the path of trailing Alison and the person in the white coat and hood.

Walking through hallways, Aria and Emily keep quickly following Alison and the person in the white coat and hood, until Lucas and Paige block the other end of the corridor. Aria questions if Alison is leaving her own party, before Emily asks what the rush is. Alison and the person in the white coat and hood turn back around to face Aria and Emily, revealing that they’re wearing Alison masks. As Emily says Alison’s name, Alison and the person in the white coat and hood take off their masks, revealing themselves to be Cindy and Mindy. Aria and Emily share a shocked and confused look, before turning their attention back to Cindy and Mindy.

In the Hastings’ living room, Aria, Ezra and the other couples listens as Toby says that the letter Hanna found proves that Alison knew Bethany, and that it may create enough reasonable doubt to clear Spencer’s name. As the clock strikes midnight, Ezra leans downs to kiss Aria, before kneeling on the floor and wrapping her in a hug.

Aria listens as Emily tells the Liars that her mom called her friend at highway patrol, and that they don’t expect the roads to be cleared until tomorrow. Emily mentions that it’s the first time she’s not with her parents her Christmas, and Aria adds, “yeah, me too”. Hanna tells them that her mom always said that Christmas was wherever they were, as long as they were together. Suddenly Caleb’s voice tells the girls that they are together, and looking up, Aria, Spencer, Hanna and Emily find their partners standing on the stairs in nothing but Santa boxers, “wow”.

Aria and Ezra are getting food out of the fridge, as everyone else huddles around the island bench in the Hastings’ kitchen.

Aria and the others sit at the table, as Ezra serves up Christmas chicken. As Ezra sits down, Aria tells them that they should all say a prayer, and they link hands with one another.

Laughing and enjoying each others company, everyone starts to serve their plates with food.

Aria listens as Emily toasts to their family, may they always stay together, before clinking glasses with everyone. Suddenly everyone hears the sound of bells and something falling down the chimney. Getting up from the table, everyone heads outside where they find a Christmas tree all lit up in Spencer’s backyard. As they’re admiring the tree, snow starts falling and a message over Spencer’s barn lights up. Aria reads the message aloud, “Merry Christmas, Bitches. –A”, before snuggling into Ezra’s chest.

Through a Glass, Darkly

Aria, along with Emily, Hanna and Spencer walk out of the Rosewood Church following Mona’s funeral service. Aria listens Hanna explains that in Mona’s empty casket Mona’s mom put keepsakes – stuffed animals, photo albums, an old retainer. Spencer says that it’s called a cenotaph, and that they have them for soldier’s whose bodies are never found, and Hanna tells her to never say never. When Emily reminds Hanna that it’s been over three months - no body, no murder weapon - Aria adds, “and no arrest”, to which Spencer mentions her present company excluded, and that they shouldn’t forget she’s still an alleged murderer. Aria and the girls notice Alison approach Leona Vanderwaal, and Aria questions, “how the hell is she doing here?” Hanna comments that they have to get her out of here and they all start to move towards Alison. Pausing as Alison starts talking with Leona, Aria, like everyone else, is stunned when a grieving Leona slaps Alison.

Walking into The Brew, which is being remodelled, Aria listens as Ezra tells her that once it’s all done, the side wall will be all bookshelves. Aria tells him that it looks good in a, “has to get really messy before it gets clean”, kind of way. Saying that he appreciates her optimism, Ezra comments that he thinks Aria needs to get her eyes checked. Ezra questions if Aria has heard from Oberlin, and turns to look at some blueprints, Aria tells him no, she hasn’t yet, “maybe tomorrow”. Ezra then asks if she’s heard from Mike since the funeral, and turning back to face him, Aria admits that she kind of lost track of Mike after the slap that was heard around the world, before questioning why. Ezra says that he was just wondering how Mike was doing, before adding that Mona was a lot of complicated things, to a lot of different people, but she was just one thing to Mike. Aria mentions that “he loved her”, and she was the one to try and screw it up, “twice”. When Aria says that Mike doesn’t want to talk to her about Mona, Ezra suggests that he could try, say that he needs help with the bookshelves. Nodding, Aria comments that Ezra does need help with his bookshelves, and with a smile, Ezra tells her that it’s a win-win.

Sitting on a park bench in the middle of town, Aria rips open a letter from Oberlin, which regrets to inform that her application has been rejected. Alison approaches and asks if it’s bad news. Folding the letter, Aria quickly gets up to leave but Alison stops her, and says that she doesn’t have to do that. When Aria asks, “do what?”, Alison says she doesn’t have to run from her, be afraid. Aria tells Alison that if she wants her to believe that she’s not who they think she is, she’ll leave them all alone. Chuffing, Alison comments that it’s like they went to sleep one night and forgot who she was. Shaking her head, Aria says that she knows exactly who Alison is, “A”. Alison tells her to stop saying that, to which Aria asks why she should, “you’re ‘A’. You stole the game from Mona and then you killed her because she had proof”. Aria adds that Alison also killed Bethany because she was jealous of a mental patient, “that’s how crazy you are”. Alison cuts her off, telling her to listen, but Aria pulls a whistle out of her bag and starts blowing it, gaining the attention of people around.

At the Hastings house, Aria listens as Spencer says that Bethany Young’s family are talking with the judges right now, it could be today, it could be tomorrow. When Spencer adds that Veronica is at the courthouse and she’s trying to fight it, Hanna tells her that they can’t just revoke her bail. Aria says that they have to do something, and Spencer asks what, before saying that they found the letter from Bethany explaining the matching clothes, explaining everything, and Holbrook is doing whatever he can to get it thrown out. Aria explains that Mona found out that Alison hit Bethany with that shovel, and was murdered for it, “so if we can prove that Ali killed Mona, the cops will realize that these two crimes are connected. That one motivated the other. That you’re innocent”. Emily questions that if it were easy to prove that Alison is a murdered, wouldn’t they have done that already, to which Aria says that if Mona can find proof, so can they, “it’s gotta be somewhere, right?” Aria then asks Hanna how Caleb is doing with Mona’s laptop, and Hanna tells her that he’s not giving up, but he’s not getting anywhere either.

Walking into Caleb’s new apartment, Aria comments that it must be nice for him to have his own place. As Aria places a takeaway bag on a cardboard box, Caleb turns off the music he was playing and says that it’s his mom’s name on the lease, and that she’s helping him out for a while. Passing Caleb a cup of coffee, Aria tells him that she didn’t know how he took it, but there’s cream and sugar in the bag. Looking around the apartment, Aria asks Caleb what all of the computers are, and Caleb tells her that it’s decryption software. Caleb explains that it’s searching for any existing patterns that may have been used to encrypt Mona’s data. As Aria takes a drink of her coffee and nods, Caleb adds that if they find out the pattern, they unlock the files. As Aria says that it sounds “fancy”, Caleb tells her that the problem is that Mona didn’t use any known patterns, she made them all up. Going on, Caleb tells Aria that he’s been running decryption software for months with no luck. Aria then questions whether “all this hacking stuff” works on websites as well, and when Caleb asks if she’s trying out for anonymous or something, Aria tells him no, “course not”. Caleb mentions that Aria’s Sudoku prowess doesn’t exactly qualify her to help out with what he’s doing, and after telling her that she knows that, Caleb questions why she’s at his apartment. Taking a breath, Aria says that three months ago she applied to six colleges, “and I didn't get into Brown, which, that's fine, it was kind of a stretch. But, Oberlin... I mean, I nailed that interview”. Caleb guesses that she wants him to break into Oberlin's database and find out why she got rejected, and Aria tells him yeah, “I need to know if it's me… or if it's A”. Nodding, Caleb stands up, and tells Aria to take a seat. Looking at Caleb and then down at the chair, Aria takes a seat, while Caleb brings his laptop in closer. After Caleb has pressed a few keys, he leans back, and Aria asks what she’s supposed to do with “all this”. Caleb comments that if you give a man a fish, he’ll eat for a day, and Aria tells him that “if you don’t want to help…” before she notices Caleb giving her a look, and turning back to the computer, she nods, “teach me”.

Walking into The Brew, Aria calls out, “hello?” Walking further into the premises, Aria calls out to Mike, then Ezra. Getting no answer, she goes into her messages, where Mike has asked her to pick him up, and calls him. Turning around when she hears Mike’s phone ringing, Aria is taken aback when she finds ‘A’ standing there, holding Mike’s cell. Turning back and running towards the back doors, Aria is trapped when she finds him locked, “no. No”. It doesn’t take ‘A’ long to grab her and throw her backwards, where she falls to the ground amongst protective plastic wrap. As Aria tries to get up, ‘A’ pins her to a wall and with a nail gun to her chest, Aria pleads with ‘A’ to not do “this” to her, “please. Alison”. ‘A’ grabs the sheet of protective plastic, and folding it over Aria, they staple it to the wall, trapping Aria, “Ali, Ali, Ali. Stop”. Breaking free from the plastic, Aria slides to the floor and reaching for her handbag, she finds Mona’s laptop missing.

Aria follows Emily into Emily’s bedroom, and is asked if Ezra knows she was attacked. Aria tells her no, and that she’s going to keep it that way. Emily asks if she’s sure it was Alison who attacked her and took Mona’s laptop, to which Aria questions who else it could be. Emily says that’s not what she asked, and Aria tells yes, “I’m sure”. As Emily’s phone beeps with a text message, Aria asks what it is, and Emily explains that it’s Paige, and that she wanted to take her to the airport, but Paige has to leave now. Aria says that maybe that’s what Emily should do, but Emily tells her no, they have to do this together.

Aria, Emily, Spencer and Hanna block Alison’s path as she’s tries to run from the police. Alison tells them to get out of her way, now, but the girls don’t budge. As Alison tries to run through the girls, they stop her be pushing her back. Aria listens as Alison says that ‘A’ set her up, and that they’re letting ‘A’ win. Alison asks them who will protect them when she’s gone, before saying that if they do this, they will all be next. As Lieutenant Tanner comes up behind Alison, telling her to put her hands above her head. Tanner tells Aria, Emily, Spencer and Hanna to move, and taking a step back, the girls watch as Tanner tells Alison that she’s under arrest for the murder of Mona Vanderwaal.

Aria is sitting on the couch waiting for Mike to come home. After they greet each other, Mike comments that Aria found his phone, and when he begins to walk towards the kitchen, Aria calls after him, asking if she can talk with him a second. Mike says that he’s starving, and asks if they can do it later, to which Aria tells him that Alison has been arrested, “for Mona’s murder”. As Mike tells her okay, Aria questions that okay is his response. Aria asks Mike to sit down, “please”, and after Mikes does so, Aria says that she’s afraid to know what he knows. Going on, Aria says that Mona knew a lot of things about her and her friends, before adding that all this time she thought Mike was the one who was afraid to talk with her, “but really I… I think that it was me that was afraid to talk to you”. Aria comments that with Alison behinds bars, maybe now they don’t have to be afraid anymore. Mike says that he knows Aria hated Mona, maybe for good reason, maybe not, but now she’s just like the rest of them. Saying that Aria is pretending Mona was a Saint when she didn’t even know her, Mike questions Aria if she knows what that’s like, sitting with a bunch of people memorializing someone who they don’t even know. Mike then asks Aria if she thinks people said how great Mona was to her face, none of this would have ever happened. Mike comments that he’s sick of being told how sweet and smart and nice Mona was, but Mona wasn’t nice, anyone can be nice. When Mike says that he’ll never meet anyone like her, ever, Aria asks if maybe sometime he can her about Mona, “the Mona you knew. The real Mona”. When Mike nods, Aria says that she’s going to go see if Byron needs any help with dinner. Walking out of the living room, Aria stops, and hearing Mike break down and cry, she sheds a tear.

Sitting on the Hastings’ back porch steps, Aria listens as Emily tells the girls that for a minute she thought of getting on the plane to Atlantic City, to fly away. Aria says that Paige was wrong, “she should have stayed”, but Emily says that she doesn’t think Paige was wrong, she got out. After Emily gets up and walks into the backyard, Aria and the other girls follow suit. Aria listens as Spencer says that they should all think about getting out of here, there’s nothing keeping them in Rosewood anymore. Spencer mentions that they all have college applications out, and Aria looks wary, knowing that she has been rejected from Brown and Oberlin. As Emily says that they could have an actual life, the other girls smile. As a fireworks displays starts, the girls focus their attention to the sky, and Aria wonders if they’re from the carnival at Saint Bridget’s, “it’s so beautiful”. An ‘A’ is then formed in the sky, and Emily comments that Alison is ‘A’, and she’s in jail. Aria mentions that this must be something she set up before the police got her, and Spencer says that it has to be. As the fireworks start to fall into Spencer’s backyard, the girls run up to the French doors, before turning back to the falling sparks.

Fresh Meat

In the Rosewood High School courtyard, Aria listens as Hanna mentions that Alison’s in the penalty box, yet she’s still playing offence. Toby says that maybe this is just Alison being iced out, getting desperate, but if they think there is somebody on the outside helping her, and Hanna tells him there totally is because there was a fireworks display. When Spencer says that someone is helping Alison, Aria questions who she means by someone, “I saw Alison and Holbrook under the mistletoe, and he had his tongue down her throat”. Aria says that “it’s him”, but Hanna tells her that they don’t know that for sure. As the school bell rings, Aria and the girls walk into the hallway and towards Hanna’s locker. When Hanna starts talking about going on a college visit, and Spencer questions how many schools she got accepted into, Aria changes the subject, “so what are we going to do about Holbrook?” Aria goes on to say this this smells like Wilden all over again, to which Hanna says that Holbrook is not like Wilden. Emily comments that Holbrook may be worse, to which Hanna says that he’s not that bad of a cop, he’s just a really bad kisser, and Aria, Emily and Spencer all question when Hanna kissed him. Hanna clarifies that it was on kiss, closed mouth, and it was because he helped her mom with the whole Wilden deposit box thing, and he stood up for Travis’ dad in court. Hanna goes on to theorise that if Holbrook’s helping Alison, she probably convinced him she’s the victim, and if he knew who she really was, then… The school bell cuts Hanna off, and when Spencer asks how many schools Hanna really got into, Aria tells them all she has to go.

Aria walks into Art class, when she gets a text message from Ezra who tells her that tomorrow night’s grand opening for The Brew is turning into a circus. As Aria is sending a reply, Emily walks up behind her asking if they can talk for a minute. Aria tells her sure, but let her finish texting, “Ezra’s bugging out”. Aria explains that the opening went from then bookworms and a jug of drink to an event, “Caterer, publicist. He’s basically had to hire everything but a belly dancer”. When Emily says damn, Aria wonders if she’s into belly dancers, but Emily tells her that she was going to ask Ezra for a raise, she needs the cash. Emily tells Aria to forget it, but Aria asks what she needs the cash for. Emily explains she wants it for a plane ticket to go see Paige over Spring Break, and that her mom won’t even let her touch her college savings. At the mention of College, Aria walk over to a drying rack, where Emily continues to say that every day that goes by, she and Paige are growing further apart. When Emily mentions that the last time she and Paige spoke she even considered looking into a liberal arts school in Oregon, but cutting her off, Aria asks if they not do this now, “I can’t talk about this”. Emily questions if Aria can’t talk about Paige and her, to which Aria tells her, “college”. Saying that the whole subject is making her hair fall out, “seriously it’s like coming out in clumps”, Aria tells Emily that she’s been rejected from every single college she’s applied to, “yesterday Talmadge waitlisted me. Talmadge”. Aria asks Emily to tell her that ‘A’ isn’t the one responsible, to which Emily says that a waitlist isn’t rejection. Aria comments the rest of the girls will be waltzing off to Sorority rush, and she’s going to be stuck picking up trash in Rosewood, “that’ll be me, dodging ‘A’ messages and wearing a big floppy hat to cover my bald spot”. Sating that Aria can turn a waitlist into an acceptance, Emily explains that her cousin wrote an amazing letter to Yale and totally won them over. But Aria tells Emily no, “this is Alison’s revenge, keeping me here”.

In The Brew, Aria is unpacking a box of books when Jonny asks if he can borrow her eye. Telling him, “sure”, Aria walks over, and Jonny asks her to tell him if the sign he is hanging in slanted. Jonny tells her not to lie to me because they’ll think he’s aced it and then live to regret it. Adding that he regrets a lot, Jonny comments that he spends his days paddling through a stew of regrets. Aria tells him that it’s perfect, to which Jonny tells her that she’s a really good liar. When Emily walks into The Brew, Aria greets her, before walking over to Ezra who is on the phone with Andre the caterer. Ezra tells her that Andre keeps putting him on hold, and Aria says that he should tell Andre to stick to the original plan, to which Ezra tells her that that was like three plans ago. Noticing the book Aria is holding, Ezra tells her that the author is coming to the party tomorrow night, and that she should really talk with him as he teaches at Vassar. Ezra then questions whether Aria has heard from Vassar or not, and she tells him she hasn’t, “no, not yet”. Turning to organise some books as Ezra gets back to his phone call, Aria looks over her shoulder when Ezra comments that Andre just quit on him. When Emily says that she can cater Ezra’s party, Aria walks back over to Ezra and listens as Emily says she’s been helping her mom in the kitchen since she was could walk, and that Ezra should let her do it. Aria tells Ezra that she’s sure it’ll be amazing, “it’s not like Emily’s a stranger in that kitchen”, before Emily adds that the guests will be at the party in less than 27 hours. Ezra asks if Emily even took home economics, and after Aria gives him a look, Ezra apologises and tells Emily to go for it.

Walking into The Brew’s kitchen, Aria asks Emily if she can show her something before Ezra gets back. Handing a letter to her, Aria explains to Emily that she spent all of last period in the library writing the letter to Talmadge. Saying that she doesn’t want to sound desperate, Aria says that she just figured if they see like a hundred of the letters everyday… Emily tells her it’s good, but… and after Emily trails off, Aria asks, “but what?”, to which Emily says that she needs to make it more personal. Aria questions the word personal, before asking Emily what she wants her to tell them, “that I spent all of Junior Year being hunted down by ‘A’”. When Emily goes to say that’s not what she meant, Aria adds that she could write she wanted to write the letter two weeks earlier “but I was too busy being suffocated by a plastic sheet”. Emily mentions that she’s spiralling again, but Aria tells her she’s not, “you can’t spiral, Emily, if you’ve already crashed”. Aria goes on to say that Talmadge was supposed to be her slam dunk, but then yesterday she got a letter that was “all slam and no dunk”, and she’s already missed every other deadline. As Aria says that if she doesn’t get bumped up from the waitlist, “I don’t get to go to college next fall”, Ezra walks into the kitchen, overhearing the last of the conversation. Emily excuses herself, saying that she’s going to go call her mom, and Aria takes a moment before turning to face Ezra. Holding the letter she has written, Aria tells Ezra that she didn’t know how to tell him, but nobody wants her. Ezra tells her that that’s not true, and that there are many, many, many great colleges she can apply to in the future. Aria tells him that she can write a better letter, to which Ezra tells her she could write the Grapes of Wrath, but it still wouldn’t matter. Ezra explains that Talmadge recently hired Jackie Molina as an admissions officer, and Aria questions if he means “Jackie, as in your ex Jackie who hates my guts?” Trying to lighten the situation, Ezra tells her that she forgot to mention that Jackie hates his guts even more. Ezra then comments that he knows it hurt, but it’s a temporary setback, that’s all, he promises, before he wraps Aria in a hug.

In her bedroom, Aria searches for Talmadge College, and clicking on their ‘admissions’ tab, she clicks into Jackie’s profile. Having a thought, Aria picks up the letter she wrote, and moving to her window bench, she rereads it.

Pacing her bedroom, Aria flops down onto her bed.

Looking over to her desk, Aria walks over to her laptop and begins to write a new letter to Jackie, and Talmadge.

In Emily’s bedroom, Aria asks Emily what time she got home, to which Emily says about three hours ago. Aria hopes she didn’t wake her, but Emily comments that she hasn’t been to sleep. Emily mentions that she still hasn’t written back, and when Aria asks, “who?”, Emily tells her, Paige. Aria wonders when the last time the two of them spoke, but Emily tells her to forget it. Emily asks for the new letter has written, and looking over it one more time, Aria hands it over. Turning her back as Emily reads, Aria questions, “what?”, when she turns and sees a look on Emily’s face. Emily questions if this is Aria’s way of getting personal, and Aria comments that if she’s pitching herself to Jackie, why not lob it over the plate. Emily asks Aria to tell her that she didn’t send it, and asking why, Aria adds that it hits Jackie in her “sweet spot”. Emily reads aloud that Aria regrets that she squandered her high school career getting involved with an old guy, that she was robbed of all the rituals her classmates enjoyed, and that the secret relationship kept her in a fishbowl separating her from her family, her friends, even herself… Grabbing for the letter, Aria tells Emily that she doesn’t need a dramatic reading, “I wrote it”. Emily comments that if Ezra saw it he would be so hurt, but Aria thinks he wouldn’t, “he would know exactly what I’m doing. And once I, I get accepted I can just take back every word”. Emily asks Aria to please tell her that she didn’t send it, and exasperated, Aria wonders why Emily keeps saying that, “yes I sent it. I emailed it last night”. As Aria says that it’s done, Emily gives her a look for telling Aria that she has to go. Aria asks why, and Emily says she has 200 empanadas to fill, leaving Aria reading over the letter again.

At Talmadge College, Aria looks at a campus map, before looking around and spotting Jackie herself. Rushing over, Aria interrupts Jackie’s conversation with a colleague, and introduces herself, “do you remember me?” Jackie tells her colleague that she would see him later, and it’s then that Aria apologises for interrupting. Jackie wonders what Aria is doing here, before questioning if Aria still lives in Pennsylvania. Aria says she does, “it’s a long story”, before explaining that she applied for Talmadge, and then she was waitlisted “and then last night I emailed a letter to the admissions board that I would really like to delete… if possible”. Jackie asks why she wants to delete it, and when Aria says that “it’s complicated” and she doesn’t want to have to get into the details, to which Jackie tells her that she sure did in her letter. Jackie then questions if that’s why Aria rushed up, before guessing that Aria’s worried that she’s going to share the contents with Ezra. Noticing Aria’s look, Jackie tells Aria not to worry, her secret’s safe. Jackie mentions that if she never spoke with Ezra again it would be way too soon, and Aria thanks her. Jackie comments that after she read Aria’s letter she thought about all the time she wasted believing Ezra was somebody he wasn’t, and that she wishes they’d invent a pacemaker that zapped your heart every moment you started falling for Mr Wrong. Aria listens as Jackie mentions that it would save a lot of girls from making a huge mistake, not just them.

Arriving at The Brew’s relaunch party, Aria receives an email from Jackie who informs her that she’s now been accepted into Talmadge. Greeting Ezra when he walks up to her and kisses her cheek, Aria listens as he tells her that he’s been looking for her, before saying that there’s somebody he really wants her to meet. With her arm around him, Aria walks with Ezra over to a Bob, where she’s introduced as the young lady Ezra was telling Bob about. Aria listens as Ezra explains that the man is Bob Milson, a teacher at Vassar, and that he thought one gifted writer would appreciate another. Giving Bob a fake smile, Aria feels uncomfortable knowing what she did to get accepted into Talmadge.

Cleaning up after the party, Aria is approached by Emily who asks why she was late, and if she got up to Talmadge. Aria nods, and when Emily asks if she was able to stop…, Aria cuts her off, telling her no, “Jackie read it”. Emily comments oh no, before asking if Jackie’s going to forward it to Ezra, but Aria says no, “it’s our secret”. Saying that it worked, Aria shows Emily her acceptance email. Emily questions what she’s going to tell Ezra, and taking her phone back, Aria questions, “tonight? Nothing”. Saying that she can’t, Aria walks off.

Cleaning up some plastic cups, Aria notices a ‘Guide to Liberal Arts Colleges’ book, and picks it up. Finding a bookmark, Aria opens to the page it has marked, Talmadge College. Picking up the bookmark, Aria reads the line of the letter she wrote, detailing the regrets of squandering her high school career by getting involved with an older guy, before looking bright eyed around the near empty Brew.

Over a Barrel

Sitting in The Brew, Aria listens as Emily questions Spencer that the knife she and Caleb found was covered in blood, before she herself wonders if it was Mona’s blood. Spencer tells them, yeah, and that any of their prints could have been on it. Emily asks if they think Holbrook planted it, and turning to Hanna, Aria says that she vouched for him, “do you still think he’s a good guy?” Hanna says she’s not so sure anymore, and that she bailed on her college visit to go track down Holbrook’s dad, and that the whole family emergency thing is a lie. Aria theorises that if Alison’s ‘A’ and Holbrook’s on her side, they could pin Mona’s murder on the girls, “couldn’t they?”, to which Spencer says she doesn’t know. Spencer asks Emily if she wants her to send a package to Paige because she’s having trouble letting go, but Emily says she’s not holding on, it’s just that she found three pairs of Paige’s swim goggles and some of her CD’s in her car. Aria asks if Emily is still going to see Paige for Spring Break, and when Hanna says she thought Paige asked for some space, Emily tells them that Paige did, so she’s not. As Emily says her shift is about to start, Aria follows her to the counter, asking if she can get a refill, “I didn’t sleep last night”. Emily tells Aria that she was here all night, and that Holbrook didn’t come to the party, so there’s no way he could have left her the bookmark. Aria tells her that somebody did, and that she really needs to find another college to apply to before Ezra finds out how she got into Talmadge. Aria asks how much for the coffee, and when Emily says to just take it, Aria tells her no, “I’ve already lied to Ezra, I don’t want to steal too. Even if it is just a cup of coffee”. Typing the order into the register, Emily tells her it’ll be 50c, to which Aria questions, “since when?”, and Emily explains that with the new Brew, there are new prices. After placing the money on the counter, Aria frowns as the receipt for her coffee prints longer than it should. Emily notices as her back to turned making the refill and comments that there are also new registers. Emily is unable to cancel the receipt from printing, and picking the receipt up, she frowns. Aria asks Emily, “what?”, and Emily explains that it’s the letter she wrote to Jackie. Aria tells her to “make it stop”, and pressing the cancel button, Emily says that she can’t. As the receipt stops printing, Aria grabs the paper, and when Emily asks what it says, Aria reads out a message from ‘A’, “This kind of lie will stay on your permanent record. –A”.

Getting up from the couch, Aria approaches Ezra who has just walked into The Brew. Aria begins to ask if they can talk, but pointing to his ringing cell, Ezra explains that the contractor is calling and he’s been trying to get hold of him all day. As Ezra says that he’ll be right back, Ezra watches him walk into the kitchen, before Emily gives Aria a look to go after him. Walking into the kitchen, Aria listens as Ezra disgruntledly ends his phone call, before he explains that the contractor is trying to charge him for the shelves he himself installed with Mike. Aria apologises and asks if she can do something to help, but Ezra tells her no, it’s alright. As Aria begins to say something, Ezra questions if she had fun last night, before saying that he thinks Bob Milson really liked her, and he knows Bob could speak on Aria’s behalf to the admission staff at Vassar. Ezra says that it’ll be one phone call, Aria tells him, “yeah. Yeah, that, that would be great if…” Ezra’s ringing cell cuts Aria off, and picking up his phone, Ezra tells her he’s sorry, but he has to take the call. As Ezra walks from the kitchen, a guilt ridden Aria sighs heavily.

Aria is typing away on her computer, when her phone beeps with an incoming text. Picking her phone up, Aria reads the message, before calling out to Emily who is behind The Brew’s counter, “come here, I just got a message”. Aria passes her phone to Emily, and Emily reads the message aloud, “stop looking for me, I’m tired of hiding. Grille at noon. -H”, before questioning if ‘H’ is for Holbrook. When Aria says “yeah”, Emily tells Aria that she’s not meeting Holbrook by herself. Aria asks why, before saying that it’s in the middle of town in the middle of day, “and I don’t think this is an ‘A’ trap. I can handle this alone”. Gathering her things and standing, Aria says that the least she can do is hear him out, “if Holbrook’s tired of dishing out Alison’s revenge, I… I may not have to tell Ezra about that letter”.

Standing outside the Apple Rose Grille, Aria looks down at her phone and then around, when Jason approaches her, calling out her name. Turning to face Jason, the two greet each other, before Jason asks Aria if she’s meeting someone. Looking at her phone, Aria tells him that she is, “but I don’t think they’re going to show up”. As a silence stretches between them, Aria asks how he is since…, and finishing Aria’s sentence for her, Jason questions if she was going to say since he basically put his sister in prison. Aria doesn’t make eye contact, but listens as Jason says that they could start at tense and work their way up from there. Aria then asks how Alison is, “she tried to call us a few times”, but cutting her off, Jason tells Aria that she doesn’t have to explain, before saying that he’s seen Alison once, and that was enough. Jason gets a text message, and after looking at his phone, he asks Aria if she wants to grab a bite. Explaining that he was supposed to meet Ashley Marin for a working lunch but she just cancelled, Jason comments that it might actually be nice to talk about Alison. Nodding, Aria tells him yeah, “yeah, it might”, and the two walk into the Grille.

Over lunch, Aria tells Jason to forget about the alibi, before questioning whether Kenneth really believes Alison. Jason tells her that it doesn’t matter, he only knows how to protect her. Saying that Kenneth will do the same thing on the witness stand, Jason comments that’s even if he knows what Alison’s capable of. Aria questions what Jason thinks Alison is capable of, and Jason says, a lot, and that he’s seen Alison do things, he’s seen her talk people into things. As Jason begins to say that the way Aria and the girls used to follow Alison around…, Aria cuts him off, emphasising the words, “used to”. Jason comments that he knows the girls and Alison are not on the best of terms, and looking around the Grille, Jason tells Aria that the police have a theory, they think Alison had help. Aria questions if Alison had help with Mona, but Jason tells her after, when she was putting Mona’s body in the trunk of her car, hiding it, dumping it. Aria mentions that they kind of thought that as well, before asking if Jason remembers when Alison passed the lie detectors test. Jason realises that it must be someone on the inside, who could change the results, make sure she passed, and it’s then that Aria asks if Jason has noticed anything between Alison and Holbrook. Saying that he’s only dealt with Holbrook a few times, Jason comments that he probably wouldn’t have noticed, Alison can get away with things right under your nose. Aria mentions that they think Alison and Holbrook might be “close”, and she talked him into doing things. Aria phone vibrates with a text, and as Jason wonders what is with the cops in this town, Aria picks up her cell and reads the message, “One hour. Maple and Prescott. –H”. After looking outside the window, Aria asks Jason if he thinks it’s possible, to which Jason tells that he can’t say for sure, and that Alison’s probably cut him lose by now. As Jason questions what else Holbrook could do for Alison, Aria looks at him, before looking back out the window onto the street.

At Maple and Prescott, Aria calls Emily and tells her that “it’s a flower shop”. As Emily questions, what’s a flower shop, Aria says that that’s where she’s meeting Holbrook, “he must have seen me talking with Jason and got spooked. He wants to meet me alone”. Emily mentions that if Holbrook’s really crossing Alison, she would guess that he doesn’t want it to get back to her. Emily asks Aria to check in, and telling her that she will, Aria ends the call.

Aria is still waiting outside of the flower shop, when the florist walks out with a bouquet of flowers calling Aria’s name. As Aria turns, the florists asks if she’s here to pick up, but Aria tells her no, “I’m just…” The florist cuts Aria off, and passing her the flowers, the florist explains that a guy called and said that Aria would pick up and hand deliver. Aria begins to ask, “was his name”…, but interrupting when she hears the counter bell, the florist tells Aria that she’s here by herself. The florist tells Aria that the delivery address is 35 Turning Leaf Lane and the…, but cutting the florist off, Aria tells her she knows where the address is. Thanking the florist, Aria turns and looking down at the flowers, she walks off.

Ringing the Marin’s doorbell, Aria walks in with the bouquet of flowers when Hanna opens the door. Hanna asks Aria what the big secret is, to which Aria asks if Ashley is home, “I was supposed to deliver theses to her, but I, I, think something’s up”. Aria listens as Ashley calls out to Hanna, asking who’s at the door, and when Hanna tells her that it’s Aria, Ashley tells Hanna to tell Aria that they’re still eating. Hanna then tells Aria to go upstairs. In Hanna’s bedroom, Aria pulls out the card that accompanied the flowers and reads it aloud, “last night took me by surprise. Glad I stayed for dessert. - Jason”. Aria asks Hanna “since when does your mom bake”, before questioning why Jason…, but cutting in, Hanna exclaims that this wasn’t Jason, it was Alison trying to start trouble. Aria wonders why, “what do you and your mom have to do with Jason”, and grabbing the card, Hanna tells Aria to forget about Jason, she herself did this. Hanna explains that she went to see Alison in jail, and shocked, Aria questions Hanna, “I’m sorry. You did what?” Hanna comments that she had to as she thought Alison was going after Caleb, and when she heard about that bloody knife... Aria tells Hanna that they agreed “none of us were supposed to”, before adding that she spent the whole day running on Alison’s hamster wheel because of Hanna. Hanna comments that she faced Alison, for all of them, and sighing, Aria listens as Hanna says she told Alison to back off, and this is her backing off. Aria tells Hanna that should have told them, to which Hanna says that she’ll tell the others, she promises. Hanna pleads with Aria not to mention the flowers, and saying “fine”, Aria walks out of Hanna’s bedroom.

Sitting on her bed, Aria rereads the letter she wrote to Jackie which was printed on the receipt. Reaching the message from ‘A’, Aria grabs her phone and goes to call Ezra, but decides against it.

The Bin of Sin

In Caleb’s apartment, Aria asks if they seriously think Mona’s body is in the barrel in the storage unit, to which Caleb simply tells her, yes. Hanna passes Aria the lease agreement for the storage unit, and when Aria says that it must be payback from when Hanna confronted Alison in jail, Spencer and Emily both question when Hanna visited Alison and why Aria was the only one who knew. Aria listens as Caleb tells the Liars that Hanna visiting Alison has nothing to do with the lease agreement, and that the storage unit was rented in Hanna’s name four months ago, the day before Mona was murdered. Hanna says they should get rid of the stuff in the bin, and when Aria tells her that Mona’s body could seriously be in that barrel, “do you burn that too?”, Hanna says of course not, but they can put it somewhere. When Hanna says that what’s in the barrel may could convict her, and that she doesn’t have a good alibi, Caleb notes that they do have one thing going for them, they’re a step ahead of Holbrook and he doesn’t know they’ve traced Mona’s laptop back to the storage unit. As Emily questions how they know Holbrook’s behind it all, and that it could be anyone of Ali’s little minions, before saying that yesterday they thought Holbrook was reaching out to Aria. Aria says that Holbrook wasn’t trying to reach out to her, “he just sent me on a wild goose chase for”…, but Aria trials off when she looks over to Hanna, “no reason”. Noticing the look between Aria and Hanna, Caleb tells the girls that his point is that he can corrupt the data files and make sure Hanna’s name is no longer connected with the storage unit. Spencer says that they can then tell Tanner that they traced Mona’s laptop there, and Aria adds that Tanner will then put the pieces together and realise Holbrook’s behind it all. Hanna says that if Tanner doesn’t realise it all it will just boomerang back on her, and unhappy that she’s left in the firing line, Hanna storms from Caleb’s apartment leaving Aria, Spencer, Caleb and Emily standing there watching after her.

At The Brew, Aria listens as Emily says that thinking about Mona in that barrel gave her nightmares. Aria then mentions that she barely slept, and when she did, she dreamed that Holbrook wallpapered Ezra’s entire apartment with her letter to Jackie. Aria tells Emily that she needs to tell Ezra about the letter, before asking if he’s back in his makeshift office, but Emily tells her no, net yet, before explaining that he’s meeting with vendors all morning. Grabbing her phone, Aria comments that she’s to call him, “see if I can catch him between meetings”.

Opening the front door of her house, Aria listens as Ezra says that he came as soon as he could, before he asks her if everything is okay. Aria tells him that everything’s fine, she just wanted to let him know she got into Talmadge. Ezra tells Aria that that’s fantastic news, before hugging her. As he’s pulling out of the hug, Ezra comments that it must mean Jackie doesn’t review every single application, and after noticing a look on Aria’s face, Ezra assures her that Talmadge is a very good school, and it’s a big one, so it’s unlikely she’ll ever run into Jackie. When Ezra then tells Aria not to let Jackie ruin this for her, Aria says that she won’t. Saying that he’s so happy she told him, Ezra apologises to Aria telling her he has to get back to work, but they can celebrate tonight. Ezra kisses Aria, and as he’s heading towards the door, Aria calls him back. As Ezra turns back, Aria tells him that that’s not the only thing she wanted to talk to him about, “Jackie did review my application”. Ezra questions how she knows that, and Aria admits she wrote a letter to the admissions board hoping that it would specifically land on Jackie’s desk, “and it did”. Confused, Ezra asks what letter Aria is referring to, and picking up the letter from the coffee table, Aria anxiously hands it to Ezra to read over.

Aria nervously paces her living room as Ezra reads over her letter to Jackie. When Ezra comments that it’s no wonder she got in, Aria tells him that she doesn’t blame him for being furious, “it was a really stupid thing and I realised that after I did it”. As Ezra places the letter back on the coffee table, Aria goes on to say that she tried to get the letter back from Jackie but she’d already read it and it was too late, and cutting Aria off, Ezra tells her that he’s not angry. Shocked, Aria questions that he’s not, and Ezra tells her it was a brilliant move, and Jackie must have laughed it up, to which Aria comments, “oh yeah, she did”. Taking Ezra’s hands, Aria tells him she’s sorry, “really”, but Ezra tells her she did what she had to do to get in. Ezra says that there was no harm done, and when Aria says that there was, “I actually made Jackie believe I feel this way about you”, Ezra mentions that he doesn’t care what Jackie thinks, only what Aria does and that’s all that matters. After Ezra pulls Aria in for a hug, Aria pushes out of it, commenting that she didn’t have to write the letter, before saying that she doesn’t even want to go to Talmadge, she was just scared if she didn’t get in she’d be stuck in Rosewood. Ezra comments that now Aria doesn’t have to worry, and after the two share a look, Aria walks back into Ezra’s embrace.

Aria is walking down the main street of Rosewood with Emily who says she can’t believe that Aria told Ezra and lived to talk about it. Aria can’t either, before saying that she wasted so much energy worrying about how he was going to react when she could have been worrying about all the other things she has to worry about. Saying that Aria can worry about likes like Hanna, Emily mentions that Hanna is not taking her or Spencer’s calls. Emily then questions whether Aria has talked with her, but Aria says she hasn’t, “but hopefully I can lure her out of the house with a hot fudge brownie”. When Spencer pulls up on the street in front of them, Aria comments that she doesn’t actually think that’s an actual parking space, but ignoring Aria’s comment, Spencer tells Aria and Emily that the laptop is moving. Emily questions her, and holding up her phone, Spencer explains that someone has taken Mona’s laptop out of the storage unit. Aria questions if it was Holbrook, but Spencer says her money is on Hanna as she wasn’t in school today. Emily comments that Hanna might be scared, but she wouldn’t do something like that, to which Spencer asks if Emily’s sure. Aria says that there’s only one way to find out, and the three girls get in Spencer’s car and drive off.

Aria is sitting in the back seat as Spencer drives and Emily navigates. Aria wonders why Caleb would help Hanna do this, and when Emily says they don’t know that Caleb is, Spencer reminds Emily that they’re not at Hanna’s house, and they’re not calling them back, so he’s got to be helping her.

In a factory, Emily, Aria and Spencer walk through in the dark with flashlights guiding their way. Aria questions why Hanna and Caleb would come all the way out here, and Emily says it’s because they knew no one else would. Hearing a noise the girls turn, and after looking back at Aria and Emily, Spencer leads the girls to where the sound came from. Getting to a door, Aria peers through the glass window. When they hear another noise, the girls look back to where they came from, before Spencer comments that it must be the wind moving stuff around. Aria asks where the tracker says the laptop is, and looking down at her phone, Spencer mentions that she’s completely lost service. Aria comments that the factory is huge, “we should probably split up”, and agreeing, the girls walk off in different directions.

Having heard Hanna and Caleb’s voices, Aria walks into a freezer where she finds Spencer crouched behind a laptop. Aria apologises for startling Spencer, and Spencer tells Aria to come look at what’s on the laptop. Doing so, Aria crouches down and watches a recording of Hanna and Caleb talking about moving everything from the storage unit. Aria mentions that someone knows they’re at the factory, and looking up, Spencer comments that it’s not Hanna and Caleb. As Aria says they should go find Emily, Spencer takes the laptop, and it’s then they start to hear footsteps coming towards them. Watching as Spencer crawls over to a wrench she places in the hinges, Aria rushes to the door when ‘A’ pulls the wrench out and closes the freezer door, locking Aria and Spencer in. Banging on the door, Aria turns when the freezer begins to start up and alarms sound, “what’s happening? I thought this place was shut down”. Aria and Spencer continue to bang on the door, but when Aria starts to hear air being released into the freezer, she turns and walks over to it, “Oh my God, this is really cold”. Spencer says that it’s liquid nitrogen, and when Aria questions what that means, Spencer explains that the temperature is going to drop below zero and if they don’t get out of here really soon, they’re going to freeze to death. As more liquid nitrogen billows into the freezer, Aria and Spencer begin to feel the cold, and start to frantically bang on the freezer door. When Emily finally finds them, Aria and Spencer plead with Emily to make it stop. Emily desperately tries to stop the liquid nitrogen at the controls, but is unable to so she grabs the wrench and hits the control box until it sparks and shocks her. Still trapped in the freezer, Aria and Spencer drop to their knees as they start to freeze, “Emily. Hurry please”. Noticing the freezer’s valve, Emily hits it with the wrench until it breaks, and she’s able to open the freezer door. Crawling out of the freezer, Aria and Spencer collapse to the ground, where Emily wraps Aria in her jacket.

Aria is sitting on the couch eating takeout with Ezra who comments she didn’t eat much when they place their plates of takeout on the coffee table. After Aria mentions that she’d not that hungry, Ezra gets a present for her out of his satchel. When Aria questions what it is, Ezra tells her it’s something to celebrate her getting into Talmadge. Opening the present Aria finds a journal monogrammed with her initials, “it’s, it’s beautiful. Thank you so much”, to which Ezra tells her he remembers how excited he was when he got accepted to Hollis. Aria listens as Ezra tells her that there are so many amazing adventures ahead for her, and he doesn’t want her to miss out on a single one the way she missed out on so much of high school because of him. Aria says that she doesn’t actually feel that way, and when Ezra mentions that he read the letter again, Aria tells him that she only wrote what she thought Jackie wanted to hear. Ezra notes that he thinks the letter rang true to Jackie for a reason, and when Aria comments that it’s because she’s a good writer, Ezra just looks at her. Furrowing her brows, Aria says that she doesn’t understand, “this morning you were practically laughing when you read it”, and Ezra explains that he then had a chance to think about it and he doesn’t think Aria could have written what she did if there wasn’t some small part of her that thought that way about them. Aria assures him that she doesn’t regret being with him at all, to which Ezra tells her that she may not now, but if they stay together… Aria questions Ezra’s use of the word “if”, and after Ezra just gives her a look, Aria wonders what Ezra is trying to say. Saying that he wants what’s best for her, Ezra reminds Aria that she’s approaching a very exciting time in your life, and she’s going to be meeting people and discovering herself. Cutting in, Aria tells Ezra that she can do all that and still be with him, and after taking a moment, Ezra takes Aria hands, saying that if they stay together she may grow to resent him, but if she takes this time for herself, there will be no regrets. Ezra asks Aria to at least promise him that she’ll think about it, and as a tear rolls down her cheek, Aria reluctantly agrees, “yeah, I will”.

Curled up on the couch, Aria flips through the Rosewood High year book. Finding her own photo, Aria takes no of the fact that there are no clubs listed under her name.

Oh, What Hard Luck Stories They All Hand Me

Aria stands outside of The Brew with Spencer and Emily. Aria listens as Emily asks if Toby can tell if it were human remains in the drum, to which Spencer says that the police don’t know, and even if they did, Toby probably wouldn’t tell her anyway. When Aria questions if Spencer and Toby are okay, Spencer comments that they are some distance removed from okay. Spencer tells Aria and Emily that she knows why Toby joined the police force, she even encouraged him, but it’s as if it’s now tearing him apart. Aria looks across the street to the Rosewood Police Department, and on asking Spencer is that’s her mom standing out front, Spencer and Emily look across. When Spencer confirms that it is, Emily comments that for lawyers to be working on a Saturday it must be serious, to which Spencer mentions that her mom says you get more with a smile than a subpoena. Aria wonders what Veronica is trying to get from the two others lawyers she’s standing with, and Spencer explains that the other lawyers on part of Alison’s defense team and her mom is a paid strategical consultant. Emily questions that Veronica’s helping Alison’s defense, but Spencer says she’s not helping, she’s consulting, and she’ll get more out of them than they will of her. Aria asks why Veronica is doing it at all, and when Spencer says that Veronica wants to know what they know, Aria questions, “such as?”, and Emily realises she can find out who gets called to testify. After watching Alison’s lawyers pass Veronica a file, Aria and Emily wish Spencer luck as she spots Hanna and goes to patch things up. Once Spencer has walked off, Aria asks Emily if Ezra is inside The Brew, but Emily tells her no, he’s in Harrisburg for the weekend. When Aria says “oh”, Emily questions that she didn’t know, but Aria tells her that she knew, “I just forgot”. Emily then wonders if Aria forgot or Ezra forgot to tell her, to which Aria insists that she forgot.

Aria and Emily are still standing outside of The Brew when Hanna and Spencer walk over to them. Aria asks if they’re good, and when Spencer confirms that they are, Emily comments that maybe they’re not so good. As the Liars follow Emily’s line of sight, they watch as Holbrook exits his car out the front of the Rosewood Police Department. Hanna questions what Holbrook is doing back after all this time, and Aria comments that Alison probably wanted him torturing them in close range.

Inside The Brew, Aria questions why Alison would bring Holbrook out into the open like that, and Emily suggests that it’s to scare them without doing anything. Spencer mentions that it’s pretty passive-aggressive, to which Hanna reminds her that ‘A’ is aggressive-aggressive. Aria mentions that Alison probably wants people inside the Police Department for the same reason that Veronica is making chummy with Alison’s lawyers, and Spencer comments that it’s inside information. After Emily has excused herself for a minute, Spencer mentions that Alison is going to be tried and convicted, and when Aria says that the closer they get to her trial the more desperate she’s going to get, Hanna comments that she’s also going to get more dangerous.

Aria and Spencer listen as Hanna tells them that the police called Caleb and they want to reinterview him about the storage space. When Hanna adds that the police want to know if Caleb saw anyone there acting suspicious, Aria comments, “aside from you?” to which Hanna tells her that she’s not helping. Hanna tells the girls that she knows they’re going to call her next, and when Spencer says that they’re just trying to make her nervous, Hanna tells her that it’s working.

Sitting on the couches, Aria and the other liars listen as Mona’s friend Lesli says she’s still having a really hard time believing what happened. Lesli explains that she was with Mona’s mom when the police called, and all they could say was that something had happened and Leona had to come back to Rosewood. Lesli then says that the Liars were there for Mona and her mom when she wasn’t and she wants to thank them for that.

In her bedroom, Aria listens as Spencer says that her mom is giving strategic advice to Alison’s defence team, and that they’re sharing all kinds of information with her about the case which includes whose been visiting Alison in jail. When Spencer says that there was a copy of the visitors log and that she took a picture, Aria asks if Hanna’s name was on the list. Spencer confirms that it was, but that’s not the name that’s worrying her. Showing Aria the photo, Spencer zooms in on Mike’s name. Confused, Aria says that that’s got to be a mistake, to which Spencer questions how many Mike Montgomery’s they know. Aria tells Spencer that even if it were true, Mike must have had a good reason, and when Spencer shrugs, Aria says that Alison killed Mike’s girlfriend and he was probably going there to “spit in her eye”. Spencer tells Aria maybe, before wondering why Mike didn’t mention that he was doing it. Aria says that she doesn’t know, “but there’s got to be a good explanation”, to which Spencer says that if there is an explanation, Aria is the only one in a place to get it.

Aria lingers in the corner of the Montgomery’s lounge, before she walks in and greets Mike who is watching a movie. Aria asks what he’s doing, and Mike explains that Mona had a list of movies she wanted to show and he thought he’d look at a couple. When Aria asks him how that’s going, Mike pauses the movie and tells her it’s going okay, he guesses. After a beat, Mike mentions that it was a long time before he could even look at the list, and when Aria says that Mona liked her movies, Mike comments that he thinks she remembered every movie she ever saw. As Mike says that Mona remembered not just the plot but the little details, Aria notes that Mona was “very smart”, to which Mike says she was too smart. Mike un-pauses the movie, and after standing there for a moment, Aria walks from the lounge.

Walking down the street with Hanna, Aria questions if she believes what Lesli said about Mike. Hanna mentioned that she asked Mrs V and she said that Mona mentioned the call with Lesli. When Hanna says that it probably doesn’t mean anything and that Mike is just sad and angry, Aria stops and turns to face Hanna, admitting that Mike went to visit Alison in jail. Hanna questions what Mike did, and Aria says that Spencer found out. Hanna comments that Mike got into a fight the night before Mona died and now he’s going to visit the person who killed her, to which Aria says that it sounds really bad when Hanna says it like that. Hanna questions if Aria’s talked to Mike, and Aria says that she’s tried, “but, I don’t know, I could get the words out of my mouth”. Hanna tells Aria that even if she can’t talk with Mike, she needs to figure out what’s going on.

Aria is writing in her diary when she hears a door slam. Getting up from her desk, Aria peeks through the gap in her open bedroom door and sees Mike leaving. Grabbing the jacket from the back of her chair, Aria follows him.

Standing behind a tree at the lake, Aria watches Mike on the jetty. After Mike has walked off, Aria walks over to the jetty and picks up the bag of lollies Mike has left. As Aria turns to leave, she finds Mike standing at the end blocking her way.

Aria listens as Mike mentions that it’s a nice night, before she comments that it’s getting kind of chilly. Stepping forward Mike questions why Aria followed him, but in return Aria asks why he visited Alison in jail, “you did, didn’t you?” Mike tells Aria that it’s none of her business, and when Aria asks if he wanted to confront Alison about Mona, “were you looking for some kind of closure?”, Mike laughs. Aria mentions that Alison’s dangerous, “even in a cage she’s really dangerous, don’t ever go back there again”, to which Mike steps even closer and tells her that nobody’s giving him orders anymore. Mike tells Aria to stop following him, and that he never wants to see her by the lake again. Aria questions Mike’s use of the word, “again?”, before asking how many times he’s been out here, “how many trick or treat bags have you left? Who are you leaving those for?” Mike doesn’t answer, and instead tells Aria to be careful going home through the woods. Aria watches as Mike turns and walks into the woods, before she casts a look around the lake.

As Aria is walking into Spencer’s bedroom, Hanna asks where Emily is, but Aria tells her she doesn’t know, “her phone’s still going straight to voicemail”. Aria listens as Spencer questions if Hanna is sure about this, to which Hanna tells them that Holbrook doesn’t know half the stuff they thought he did. Spencer concludes someone else has been helping Alison, and when Aria says it’s somebody they don’t know, Hanna comments that it could be somebody they’d never suspect. As Aria starts to walk from Spencer’s room, Spencer tells Aria that they call know what Alison is capable of. Turning back, Aria says that she knows her own brother, and it’s then that Hanna reminds Aria that Mike went to see Alison in jail and he won’t tell Aria why. Spencer questions what if Mike goes back, what if he’s the way Alison’s still moving stuff around, but Aria says that Mike’s not going to go back. When Spencer asks how she can be so sure, Aria tells Spencer it’s because she told him not to. Hanna then asks Spencer what Bethany meant on the tape about making plans, and when Spencer says that it means what happened in Alison’s backyard was a trap, Aria questions “who set the trap for who?”, but no one has an answer.

Out, Damned Spot

Aria sits with Hanna and Spencer at the Rosewood Blood Drive which is being held in the Rosewood High cafeteria. As Aria closes the textbook she’s revising, Hanna asks if she’s done studying, to which Aria tells her she’ll never be done studying for the test, “I just need the numbers to stop spinning”, before adding that the next time they offer to help Hanna’s mom out “can it please not involve needles?” Ashley Marin approaches the girls, and Spencer listens as Ashley thanks them for coming to the drive. Ashley offers Emily a brownie to which Emily accepts, and after Ashley has walked off, Aria holds out her hand to Emily. Emily asks if she’s serious, and “mhmm”ing, Aria motions for Emily to pass the brownie over, which she does. Aria and the Liars are startled when a plate drops to the ground, and they watch as Mike is the culprit. As Mike walks from the cafeteria, Aria calls out after him, “Mike”.

By her locker, Aria tells Spencer to ask Mike why he was at the blood drive, “I already know his answer”. When Hanna questions that Mike was there to donate, Aria tells her no, “that I should mind my own business”, and she got that message loud and clear at the dock. Spencer says that it is there business, and they all saw that he was standing near the coolers where they keep the blood, their blood. Questioning, “really, Spencer?”, Aria listens as Spencer says that if Mike is trying to get his hands onto something that can help Alison, and cutting Spencer off, Aria wonders if that’s it, “he’s guilty?” As Aria says that the court of public opinion in this town really sucks, Emily tells them to all take a breath. Spencer mentions that they will don’t know why Mike was visiting Alison in jail, or why he fought with Mona, and when she begins to say if Mike and Mona had a serious falling out, Aria tells Spencer to “just stop. Please”. Aria says that she knows they’re all desperate to find out who’s helping Alison, but just because it isn’t Holbrook does not mean it’s her brother, “Mike was in love with Mona and he would never hurt her. And he would never team up with someone who did”. Emily begins to say something, but Aria cuts her off, “I can’t talk about this right now, I have a math test”, and with that, Aria walks off.

In her Math test, Aria stares at the test paper unable to answer any of the questions. After looking at the clock, Aria notices that Andrew has completed the test, and seeing if the teacher is watching, she begins to copy down Andrew’s answers.

Walking out of the Math test at the end of class, Aria is bailed up by Andrew. Stopping, Aria turns to face him and greeting him, she asks, “what’s up?”, to which Andrew says that what’s up is that he saw her reading his test answers and copying them down. Aria apologises before explaining that she couldn’t focus in there at all, “I froze”. Mentioning that she got a conditional admission to Savannah College of Art and Design, Aria adds that if she doesn’t make honour roll this semester they could completely withdraw her acceptance, “I’m so sorry, I just, I just panicked and I didn’t…” Andrew tells her to slow down, before saying that he’s not mad, and when Aria questions that he’s not, and Andrew assures her he isn’t. As Andrew suggests that if Aria needs a tutor, Aria says she doesn’t, “there’s just a lot going on right now and I…”, to which Andrew ultimates that if she’d rather get caught cheating. Grabbing Andrew’s arm as he begins to walk away, Aria tells him to wait, and when Andrew faces her, she questions if tomorrow is okay.

Sitting on the sofa, Aria is on the phone with Spencer, “yeah and you thought Melissa was ‘A’. And you were wrong about that remember”. As Spencer begins to say that she knows, Aria sighs and promises to keep on eye on Mike if Spencer promises not to jump to conclusions. After Spencer deals with her, Aria asks what she and Toby are doing tonight, to which Spencer explains that they’re not and that something came up. Spencer then asks what Aria and Ezra are doing tonight, and if they’ve got any Friday night plans, but Aria tells her no, “I’m staying in to prepare for a study session with Andrew”. Spencer questions if Aria means Andrew Campbell, before telling her to be careful, and when Aria asks why, Spencer warns her about Andrew’s dimples. Aria laughs and saying she should probably get back to it, “talk later?”, they end the call.

Aria is writing down some notes when a cell phone starts ringing. Picking up her own cell, Aria finds that it’s not hers, and looking around, she finds Mike’s cell between the couch cushions. Aria goes to call out to Mike, but finding the call coming from a blocked number, she answers it herself, “hello?” The call is an automatic message from the Chester County Women’s Correctional Facility, and the call will be from inmate, Hank Mahoney. Accepting the call, Aria questions, “Alison?”, but the call is a hang up, “Alison!”

Aria knocks on Mike’s bedroom door, “Mike. Mike, I know that you’re in there”. Mike opens the door and when he asks what she wants, Aria holds up Mike’s cell and questions why Alison is calling him. As Mike questions her, Aria notes, “first you visit her and now she’s sending you secret messages from jail”. As Aria questions who Hank Mahoney is, Mike grabs his phone and saying that he has no idea, Mike tells Aria not to answer his phone the next time. Aria asks why Mike is letting Alison manipulate him, before saying that he knows what she’s capable of, “Mike, I know that you got in a fight with Mona the night before she died”. Saying that something is going on and Mike has to tell her what it is, Aria listens as Mike says that he doesn’t have to tell her anything, before he closes his bedroom door in her face.

In her study session with Andrew, Aria stares into space as Andrew asks if she’d prefer to revise factors and equilibriums or the French and Indian War. When Aria doesn’t give him an answer, Andrew calls out her name, and snapping back to reality, Aria apologises, “I’m a little out of it. I didn’t get much sleep last night”. Andrew asks if there’s anything wrong, to which Aria tells him no, “I’m fine”. Reaching for a textbook, Aria mentions that she should probably choose what she’s worst at, and smiling, Andrew comments that he takes it math and science aren’t Fitz’s strong suit. Aria questions him, “excuse me?”, and when Andrew explains that she could always ask Ezra for help, assuming they’re still together, Aria tells him that they should just stick to the books. Andrew notes that there are two types of physical quantity, they are…, Andrew leaves it to Aria to fill in the blank, but as Aria’s cell phone beeps, she leans forward to read the text message, ignoring Andrew’s question. Apologising, Aria puts her phone back down, but as Andrew goes to say something, it again beeps with an incoming text. Quickly grabbing the cell from the coffee table, Andrew asks Aria whether her phone is a vector or scalar. Aria guesses it’s a scalar, to which Andrew nods, before saying that if her phone were to sail through the sky accelerating at a rate of three miles per hour per second…, and Aria assumes her cell would then be a vector. Andrew looks at Aria’s phone and seeing two texts from Hanna about Mike, Andrew comments that it looks as though someone’s worried about her brother. Taking her phone, Aria ignores the messages, and the pair get back to studying.

Aria and Andrew laugh as Aria questions if he’ll get there on time, and saying that he’s got about an hour til batting practice, Andrew asks if Aria wants to move onto Spanish. Aria lists off his school activities, “baseball team, Spanish group, Decathlon. Is there any school activities you’re not involved in?”, Andrew comments that as compared is her exciting life his must seem really…, Cutting in, Aria says it sounds “functional, healthy”, to which Andrew mentions that he meant planned. Aria and Andrew smile at one another, and when there’s a knock on the front door, Aria gets up to go answer it. Opening the door to Emily, Aria listens as Emily says that she needs to speak with her about Mike. Aria looks over to the couch, and following Aria’s direction, Emily finds Andrew sitting there. Aria ushers Emily outside, and it’s there at Emily shows Aria the ATM receipt. Aria questions where Mike got $18,000, to which Emily queries that ‘A’ always seems to have access to a tonne of money and maybe this is one of Alison’s secret account. Aria then tells Emily that last night Mike got a call from the women’s correctional facility, and when Emily wonders if it was from Alison, Aria says that she thinks so, “she called, said her name was Hank Mahoney, and hung up”. When Aria mentions that it’s got to be some sort of code, Emily adds that Mike now has $400 burning a hole in his pocket. Hearing a car door slam, Aria and Emily watch as Mike drives off, “Mike just took the car”. Emily says that they need to follow him, and turning back to face her, Aria wonders how, “I’m not riding on your handlebars”. Looking over to the front door, Aria and Emily walk back inside and Aria asks Andrew if they can borrow his car. Emily says that it will be just for a little bit, and as Andrew asks if either of them drive stick, Aria and Emily look towards each other.

Sitting in the passenger seat of Andrew’s car, Aria listens as Emily says that Spencer will meet them there. When Aria indicates for Andrew to turn left, “he’s turning left”, Andrew questions if Aria often follows her brother place, to which Aria comments, “not usually”. Andrew then questions that Aria has no idea where they’re going, and Aria says she’s sure it’s close. As Andrew wonders what exactly is going on with Mike, Emily pipes up and tells him that it's drug related. Aria gives Emily a look, and when Andrew questions her, Emily says they think Mike could be dabbling in stimulants and amphetamines. Andrew again questions there theory about Mike, and Aria confirms what Emily said, “yep”. Aria listens as Emily, having gotten a text, says that there’s still no word from Hanna, but Spencer’s getting on the highway so she’ll just text her when they get…, and as Aria shoots Emily a looks, Emily rephrases herself saying she’ll text Spencer when they get to where they’re going. Pulling up outside Jonah’s diner, Andrew wonders if he should go inside with the girls. Andrew pulls up outside Jonah’s Diner, and when Aria thanks him for the ride, Andrew wonders if he should go inside with the girls. Telling him no, Aria mentions that they’ve got it from here. Andrew asks how Aria and Emily are getting home, and when Emily says that Spencer can give them a ride, Aria adds that if Andrew leaves now he can still make the end of his batting practice. Getting from the car, Aria and Emily head towards Jonah’s Diner and it's then that Aria bewilders, “drugs. Seriously, Em?”

Walking into Jonah’s Diner, Aria and Emily find it to be more of a truck stop. The girls watch as a guy approaches Mike, and when Aria questions that the guy is Hank Mahoney, Emily tells her no, that’s Cyrus Petrillo, Alison’s fake kidnapper. As Spencer questions that Mike is here on an errand for Alison, Aria mentions, “Cyrus. Hank. Whoever this guy is”, is really dangerous and he’s talking with her brother, “so I, I, I don’t care if Mike is working for Ali, I’m not going to let him get hurt”. Aria begins to walk towards the Diner, but Emily and Spencer manage to pull her back, with Spencer telling Aria that she knows she’s really worried about Mike, but as soon as they leave the Diner they’re going to follow Cyrus and they’ll find out where he’s going and what he knows. Emily then adds that if they go in there they won’t know any more than what they know now. Aria’s phone starts ringing, and as Spencer tells her to shut it off, Aria switches her phone to silent before declining the call from Ezra.

Still hiding behind Spencer’s car, Aria listens as Emily tells Aria that she told Ezra about Savannah, saying she thought he knew. Aria mentions that she had have told him already, and when Emily asks why she didn’t, and if they’re fighting, Aria admits that she doesn’t know what they are, “honestly”. Spencer furrows her brows at Aria, and Aria explains that Ezra thinks he’s the reason why she didn’t have the perfect high school experience, “is that even a thing? Does anyone have that?”, to which Emily says that she doesn’t know. Aria, Spencer and Emily’s cell phones ring, and checking their phones, Emily reads text aloud, “thanks for donating to my get-into-jail fund. –A”. Looking over to the diner, the girls find the spot where Mike and Cyrus were sitting empty. Walking closer to the diner, Emily realises that the envelope wasn’t filled with money. Upon hearing a car start up, Aria, Spencer and Emily run towards the sound, but arrive too late. Aria questions where Cyrus is and whether he was with Mike, but Spencer says she doesn’t know. Turning when they hear a motorbike behind them, the girls start to run when the person on the bike starts to rev the engine. The motorcycle chases the girls until they’re cornered at some dumpsters. The person on the motorcycle turns out to be Cyrus who asks the girls if they’re at the diner to watch the kid or him. The girls don’t answer, and it's then that Cyrus tells him that he doesn’t like being followed. Spencer says that he has something that belongs to them, to which Cyrus questions that he does. As Aria says that they just want it back, Cyrus comments that maybe they can work out a trade. Stepping out of the shadows, Andrew tells Cyrus to back away from the girls. After Cyrus has ridden off, Andrew asks the girls if they’re okay.

Aria walks into the Hastings’ house with Spencer and finds Jonny stocking the Hastings’ freezer. Spencer tells Aria that she’ll be right upstairs, and nodding, Aria heads off towards the stairs.

In Spencer’s bedroom, Aria tells Hanna that she and Spencer just filled her overnight bag and ran. Hanna asks if the car was back, but Aria tells her no, “not yet”. As Spencer walks into her bedroom with a pillow and blanket, she tells Aria that she’s so glad she’s staying the night. Aria comments that it was bad enough when Mike was stealing Jenna’s pottery, “now this”, to which Hanna says that now it’s their own blood. Aria asks what they do now, “we just wait until ‘A’ paints the town red in our DNA”, and Spencer admits she doesn’t know. Aria listens as Hanna comments that with one drop here, one spot there and kaboom they’re all sharing a cell with Alison, Aria notes that there’s a reason she doesn’t like needles.

Pretty Isn't the Point

Aria and the Liars are looking through Mike’s bedroom. Going through Mike’s desk drawer, Aria picks up a tube of cream and when Emily asks if she found something, Aria comments that her brother has jock strap, “ew. Wish I didn’t know that”. Hanna wonders what is with all the new gym equipment, and when Aria says that she doesn’t know, “he’s obsessed”, Hanna questions how much Mike paid for it. As Emily tells Hanna that they’re not shopping, Hanna says she wants to know why Mike is suddenly training to become a ninja, and Spencer says that maybe it’s because he’s running errands for a blonde spider on cell block H. Aria tells them all to stop, before saying that this all feels wrong. When Hanna says that what’s wrong is Mike stealing their stem cells and handing them over to Alison’s A-team, Aria mentions that they don’t know what was in the envelope Mike gave Cyrus, “to could have been cash”, to which Spencer says that maybe Mike is hiding their DNA in his bedroom until he gets further instructions. Emily questions if they’ve looked through the gym bag, and rushing over, Aria says that she’s got it. As she’s going through the gym bag, Aria listens as Hanna mentions that if Mike did send the bloody ‘A’ text, they should be doing more than turning his room inside out and that they should be setting fire… Having found a necklace, Aria interrupts Hanna, “guys”, and as Aria is holding up the necklace, Emily asks if she found it in the bag, and Aria explains that it was under a really disgusting gym sock. As Spencer takes the necklace, Aria listens as Emily mentions that Mike only bought the necklace last Friday. Aria wonders why Mike has the necklace, and Emily suggests that perhaps he ordered it for Mona and it’s only just come in. Hanna proposes that perhaps it’s a Mother’s Day gift, to which Spencer comments that she doesn’t think Mike was telling his mom, ‘I’m with you’. Spencer goes on to say that they just aren’t beads on the necklace, it’s a message in Morse code and the beads spell out words. When Aria questions who Mike’s with, Spencer says that the necklace is probably for Alison and that’s probably who Mike’s with. In her living room, Aria is having another study session with Andrew. Andrew asks why they called it the trial of the century, and sitting down on the couch, Aria guesses, “because Clarence Darrow”.., but cutting in, Andrew tells her there was no Clarence Darrow, that was Scopes and it was a different decade. As Mike walks in the front door, Aria tracks him as he walks through the living room. Still preoccupied with Mike, Aria’s attention goes to back Andrew when he asks why Harry Thaw shot Standford White, and Aria says that it’s because Harry was jealous of his relationship with Evelyn Biscuit. When Andrew corrects Aria saying that it was Evelyn Nesbit, Aria comments, “that’s what I said”. As Aria goes searching for her pencil, Andrew plucks it out from behind her ear and hands it to her. Noticing that Aria is still distracted, Andrew asks if she wants to take a break, and that he knows her head is not in the game right now. Andrew adds that he also knows she’s worried about her brother, to which Aria mentions that she’s worried about a lot actually. Aria then tells Andrew that there is something that he can help her with, and explaining that Mike goes down to a gym on East Elm, Aria asks whether Andrew could follow him there and see if Mike’s meeting someone there. Aria adds that she would go there herself, “but if he saw me there…”, and Aria tells her that he’s on it. Turning as Mike walks back into the living room, Aria listens as he angrily asks whether she was in his room. When Aria questions him, Mike states that she was in his room, before asking why she was in his room. Standing up, Aria tells Mike to calm down, “I was just doing laundry”, to which Mike comments that he doesn’t keep underwear in his desk. As Andrew excuses himself from the situation, Aria listens as Mike says that she has no right to be going through his things, and when Aria asks what he’s worried about her finding, Mike tells her that it’s none of her damn business. Listening as Mike says that if she touches any of his things ever again she’ll live to regret it, Aria watches as Mike sends a side table flying and storms out of the room. As Andrew pops his head back inside to see what is going on, Aria looks over her shoulder to him.

Walking out of Lucky Leons Cupcakes, Aria asks Andrew what Mike put inside the tree, but Andrew says that he doesn’t know, he started to climb up, but then he heard something and thought Mike was coming back so he took off. As they sit down at one of the outside tables, Andrew suggests that he could go back, but Aria tells him that it’s okay, “you did the right thing”. Andrew then tells Aria that her instincts were right, Mike is definitely up to something, and the foil packet he hid is in the woods behind Mona’s house. Listening as Andrew says that he knows which tree it is and he could show her, Aria tells Andrew that if he could just describe it, “I’ve got it from here”. Andrew says that Aria shouldn’t go alone, before adding that he doesn’t think Aria should be alone in the house with Mike either. Aria mentions that she won’t be, “my dad gets back later”, before she assures Andrew that she’s fine, “really”. Andrew asks if she’s sure, and when Aria nods, Andrew tells her that he’s here if she needs.

Getting out of her car, Aria walks over to the Vanderwaal house. Opening the front gate, Aria looks up to Mona’s darkened bedroom, before grabbing a flashlight from her jacket and walking down passed the house into the woods.

Walking through the woods, Aria finds the tree Andrew described. Climbing up the tree, Aria is looking through the branches when a bird startles her.

Climbing further up the tree, Aria reaches into the hallowed out branch and finds the foil packet when she hears something behind her. Sticking the flashlight into a crevice of the tree, she rips open the foil packet to find a blood vial inside. Hearing more movement, Aria quickly goes to grab the flashlight, but as she does it falls to the ground. Mike picks the flashlight up, and on asking what Aria is doing here, Aria says that it doesn’t matter, “why is this here? Mike, why are you stashing my blood in the woods?” Mike tells Aria that it’s not hers, and when Aria wonders if it’s Spencer’s or Hanna’s, Mike says that it’s Mona’s. As Mike lunges towards Aria, Aria drops the vial and flees.

Running through the Vanderwaal property, Aria gets into her car and speeds off.

Rushing into the Montgomery house, Aria calls out to Byron, “dad? Dad, are you here? Dad!” As Mike comes in the door, Aria tells him to stay away from her, “do you hear me”. Mike tells Aria to listen, and when Aria comments that she’ll call the police, Mike raises his voice and tells her to just listen and that he can explain. Mike questions whether Aria wants to know what happened to Mona or not, and when Aria just looks at him, Mike tells her that he knows what she’s thinking, but he didn’t hurt Mona. Aria listens as Mike explains that a few nights before Thanksgiving he went to Mona’s house and he surprised her. Mike goes on to say that Mona was planning on exposing ‘A’ and finally bringing that person down. Aria listens as Mike says that Mona was storing her own blood so it could be smeared all over her house and that Alison DiLaurentis would look responsible for killing her because ‘A’ wants to see Alison locked up. Mike then explains that that when Mona found out who ‘A’ was, she comes back, Alison gets out of jail, and Aria and her friends would finally be safe. Saying that if what Mike is telling her is true, Aria listens as Mike says that it is, and that he and Mona fought about it for days. Mike mentions that Mona had convinced him that she had it all under control and that she would be safe. Shaking his head and tearing up, Mike tells Aria that he doesn’t believe it anymore. Aria questions if this is why Mike has been visiting Alison in jail, “you told her Mona’s plan?”, to which Mike says that he and Mona were supposed to meet a bunch of times but she’s never shown up, and that he only went to see Alison to find out if she knew anything about ‘A’. Aria realises that Mike thinks ‘A’ double crossed Mona and killed her, and as a tear rolls down his cheek, Mike nods. Aria questions why he’s so sure Alison isn’t ‘A’, and Mike says that she can’t be, Alison wasn’t even in town what it happened. Listening as Mike explains that Cyrus told him that ‘A’ had him get Alison out of town that day, Aria wonders why Mike had Mona’s blood, to which Mike tells her that Mona gave it to him as a promise that she’d be coming back. Mike goes on to say that he wasn’t hiding the blood vile in the tree because he hurt her, he was hiding it because he didn’t want Aria to find it and start asking questions. Mike adds that the blood vial was all he had left of Mona, and when Aria hugs her younger brother, he breaks down in tears.

In the Hastings’ great room, Aria listens as Emily questions that the necklace they found was for Mona, before Aria explains that Mike was holding onto any grain of hope, “but not anymore. He realises she’s really dead”. When Hanna comments that Mike didn’t realise how vicious ‘A’ can be, Spencer mentions that she can’t believe that Mike knows about ‘A’ at all. Emily says that for Mona to tell Mike she must have really trusted him, and Aria comments, “more than I did”. As a silence falls on them, Hanna listens as Emily what they do now, and if they tell Alison, to which Spencer questions how they can, before adding that they destroyed a lot of evidence that could have proved that she was innocent. Aria mentions that they basically made a barricade so the police had to throw her behind bars, and when Hanna wonders if they’re going to say anything before Alison’s trial, Emily says that they have to. Listening as Emily says that they accused Alison of being ‘A’, to her face, Aria wonders how they take that back.

Bloody Hell

In the visitation room at Chester County Women’s Correctional Facility, Aria asks Emily if she’s heard back from Hanna, to which Emily tells her she doesn’t know, and that the guards have their cell phones. Saying that this feels weird, Aria listens as Spencer says of course it does, they’re in a locked room with razor wire on the roof, only for Aria to say that she meant “coming here with our tail between our legs”. When Emily questions that Aria doesn’t think they owe Alison an apology, Spencer reminds Aria that they formed a human blockade, and when Emily also adds that Alison’s locked in a cell because of them, Aria says that Alison’s “locked in a cell because of karma”. Emily gives Aria a lock, and Aria concedes that Alison’s locked in a cell because of them as well. Aria listens as Emily mentions that no one is saying that Alison is a saint, and when Spencer comments that no one’s saying she’s a decent human being either, Emily reminds Aria that Alison is on trial for a murder she didn’t commit. As Emily says that she wouldn’t wish that on her worst enemy, Aria mentions that Alison is definitely runner up. Hearing the outer door of the room open, Aria, Emily and Spencer watch Alison be led in. Having taken a seat, Aria listens as Emily tells Alison that Mike was scared to say anything as he still thought Mona was alive and he didn’t want to put her in danger, before Alison questions that Mona’s plan was to let her rot in here. Spencer says that it was only until Mona found out who ‘A’ was and then she was going to come back, and when Emily adds that Alison would then be released, Aria says that Mona is now not coming back. As Emily notes that they’re going to figure out a way to Alison out of jail, Alison asks where Hanna is, and after the girls share a look, Spencer says that Hanna really wanted to be here, but she had to spend the day with her mom. A guard enters the room, telling them all that their visiting time is over, and as Aria, Spencer and Emily start to walk out, promising that they’ll be back soon, Alison calls out to Aria. Looking to the guard, Aria walks back over to Alison, who tells her that she’s going to have to tell her lawyers about Mike. Aria pleads with Alison not too, but Alison comments that Mike’s testimony may be the only thing to save her. Asking if Alison can hold off, “just let me find Cyrus, maybe he can lead me to A”, Aria listens as Alison says that they’ve been looking for ‘A’, but before she can finish, Aria cuts her off, saying that they’ve been trying to find A’s henchman, “we thought that ‘A’ was in a jail cell”. As Aria’s words since in, Alison tells her okay, she’ll wait, before saying that she wants Aria to know she’s not trying to hurt Mike, she just may not have another choice.

Standing by Hanna’s locker at Rosewood High, Aria listens as Spencer asks where Hanna was, to which Hanna apologises, saying she chickened out. Hanna goes to say that she couldn’t go back there after calling Alison a liar and a murderer to her face, and when Spencer points out that Alison is a liar, Emily comments that up until yesterday they all thought she was a murderer too. Aria then listens as Hanna tells them that they didn’t make a personal appearance and cut Alison open, pour salt into the wound and then exfoliate. Hanna asks if Alison was upset, to which Spencer says that she doesn’t know as Hanna’s absence took a second position to the bomb they had to drop about Mona, and Emily adds that after they left Alison was still pretty much in a state of shock. Looking to Aria, Spencer comments that the stake of shock seems contagious, before asking her what’s going on. Saying that she’s fine, Aria listens as Emily wonders if this is about Mike, to which Aria tells them that if they don’t figure out who ‘A’ is before Alison’s trial starts.., before Spencer realises that Alison is going to feed Mike to her defence team. Emily asks if Alison’s lawyers can make Mike take the stand, and Spencer says they can, but he will be a hostile witness. Aria tells them that it’s not about Mike getting in trouble with the law, “once Mike becomes Ali’s get out of jail free card, he also becomes A’s number one target”.

Being led into the Hastings’ house by Veronica, Hanna and Aria listen as Veronica tells them that this will have to be a quick visit and that Spencer is up in her room. Thanking Veronica, Hanna and Aria start to head up the stairs, but Aria stops and turns back to Veronica. Aria wonders if she can ask Veronica something, and when Veronica raises her eyebrows, Aria adds that it’s a legal question. Listening as Veronica says sure, Aria says she’s not sure where to start, “it’s kind of personal”, to which Veronica cuts her off, saying that she’s happy to talk with her, but she needs Aria to understand that the two of them don’t have attorney client privilege. Aria asks what that means, to which Veronica says that simple answer is that she may not be able to keep whatever Aria tells her just between the two of them, even if she wants to. Digging into her handbag, Aria pulls out a $1 bill, “I know it’s not your usual rate, but for the next hour will you be my lawyer”, before watching as Veronica takes the bill.

Listening as Veronica asks if this person was involved in the crime directly, Aria tells her no, “but he did have information that could really help the police”. Veronica asks if this person was aware of that, and when Aria says he was, Veronica clarifies that he withheld it. When Aria again says that he did, Veronica tells her that without being familiar with any of the particulars she’d say that if he impeded a police investigation knowingly, then yes, he’d definitely face charges. Aria asks what kind of charges, “like jail time?”, to which Veronica says that it would depend on the nature of the crime. Aria questions what would happen if the crime was serious and someone ended up getting killed, and when Veronica just looks at her, Aria asks how much trouble the person would be in, to which Veronica tells her he’d be in a lot.

In Spencer’s bedroom, Aria listens as Hanna says that Spencer cannot leave now, they just found out that Alison isn’t ‘A’ and they still don’t know whose trying to turn them into a chain gang. Spencer asks what she’s supposed to do, and when Hanna suggests that she misses her flight, Spencer mentions they shouldn’t underestimate Veronica waiting in duty free to make sure she catches the next flight. Aria listens as Emily questions what Toby say about all this, to which Spencer says that she didn’t tell Toby, and the only way to get his attention these days is over a police scanner. Emily then questions if Veronica can postpone the interview, to which Spencer says that if Emily has any suggestions on what to say to Veronica, she’s all ears. Hanna suggests that Spencer tell her mom the truth, and when they girls all look at her, Hanna says she thinks it’s about time Spencer finally comes clean and asks her mom for help. As Spencer asks if Hanna is serious, Aria comments that they can’t do that. Hanna questions why they can’t, and Emily comments that perhaps Hanna is right, before wondering what they have to lose, to which Aria says, “my brother”. Listening as Emily says that Spencer’s mom can help Mike, Aria tells her that Veronica can’t help them find ‘A’, before asking if they really want to rattle A’s cage by telling now, “we all know what happens when we do that”.

Arriving home, Aria walks up the path to her house, when she’s stopped by Andrew whose questions if she forgot about him. Realising that they had a study session scheduled for tonight, Aria apologises, saying that she totally spaced. As Aria questions if Andrew has been waiting outside long, Andrew tells her no, just long enough to start Anna Karenina, and finish it. Andrew tells Aria not to worry about it and the Cold War waits, before asking if they should get started. As Andrew starts to towards the front door, Aria calls out to him, saying that she feels terrible about flaking, but um, “can we just hold off on the study sessions for a while, maybe”. Andrew tells her okay, but if she’s going to blow off studying, perhaps she can squeeze in a movie. Listening as Andrew says he has two tickets to a screening of All the President’s Men, Aria questions if he means tonight, to which Andrew tells her its tomorrow at the Art House Theater downtown. Andrew questions what Aria has to say, and smiling, Aria says that she’d like to, “but, is this a date?” Shrugging, Andrew says he doesn’t know, before questioning Aria as to whether it is. Saying that it can’t be, Aria mentions that she’s still “sorta” seeing Ezra, and when Andrew questions her, Aria says that she is, “sort of”. Andrew comments that Aria seems less sure of that than she did of the three branches of government, but she shouldn’t sweat it, they’ll go as friends. With a smile, Aria agrees, “friends”, to which Andrew adds they’ll be study buddies and that the movies about Watergate, so it’s like a civics and history lesson all rolled into one. Saying that it sounds entertaining, Aria listens as Andrew tells her she won’t be sorry, the movie is a thriller about getting messages from a shadowing figure who knows everybody’s secrets. As Andrew says that it’s wild stuff, Aria non-committedly agrees, before Andrew says that he’ll see her later.

Knocking on the Marin’s patio doors, Aria lets herself in. Hanna questions where Aria has been, and that she covered for in school, to which Aria mentions that her brother is on borrowed time and she can’t be “sitting in Spanish conjugating verbs”. Saying that she really needs to talk to Cyrus, Aria listens as Hanna questions if she really thinks they’re going to find ‘A’ through Cyrus. When Hanna says she’d be lucky to even find Cyrus, Aria comments that already did. Explaining that she went back to the diner looking for a lead and she found one, Aria tells Hanna that Hank Mahoney is a regular and he works as a mechanic at a garage an hour and a half away. Listening as Hanna tells her that she shouldn’t have done that, Aria says that when she got to the garage a shop manager told her that Hank was injured while he was working on a car. Hanna tells Aria to stop saying Hank, it’s confusing, before questioning where Cyrus is. Aria tells her that he’s being treated at Tack Memorial Hospital, “I called but he can’t have visitors until tomorrow”. As Aria says they need to go down there and talk to Cyrus before he disappears again, Hanna questions why Aria is willing to go down this road with the guy who tried to run her over with his hog. Aria explains that when Mike met up with Cyrus, Cyrus admitted that he was paid to set Alison up, so if they can talk to him again, maybe he can give them some sort of insight into who contacted him. Hanna questions why Cyrus would tell them now, to which Aria says that they’re willing to pay him, but Hanna tells her no, she’s not doing that. Listening as Hanna says that Emily is already popping and locking her way into college, Aria tells her fine, “I’ll figure something else out, but you have to come with me”. Shaking her head, Hanna says she doesn’t think that’s a good idea because Cyrus is kind of a scary guy, but Aria says that he’s their only link to the real ‘A’.

At Tack Memorial Hospital, a nurse asks who Aria and Hanna are, and Aria explains that they’re Cyrus’ cousins. The nurse tells Hanna that she can’t bring the flowers she’s holding into the room, before telling the girls to put some hand sanitiser on their hands, front and back. As the nurse passes the girls a gown to put on, Hanna questions if she’s sure the gown is really necessary, they’re just going to see him for a second, to which the nurse tells her that’s all the time they’ll get, but she’s not going to risk the girls giving Cyrus or any of the other patients an infection. As Hanna notices a sign for the burn unit, she comments that Aria didn’t tell her that, and Aria says that she didn’t know, “I thought he had a broken leg or something”. As the nurse tells Aria and Hanna that no hair net means no visit, they rip into the plastic bags to net and gown.

Walking into the burn unit and over to Cyrus’ bed, Aria listens as the nurse tells Cyrus that he has visitors. As the nurse walks away and Cyrus turns to face them, Aria says that she and Hanna wanted to come talk with him, but they didn’t realise he had been in such a bad accident, “I’m sorry”. Cyrus mentions that it was no accident, and when Aria asks what he means, “are you saying someone did this to you?”, Cyrus doesn’t answer. Aria asks what happened, and flipping a bandage packet over, Cyrus scribes the word ‘Carjack’ when Aria passes him a sharpie. Picking up the bandage packet, Aria shows Hanna what Cyrus has written, before reading it out loud, “carjack”. The nurse walks back over, telling Aria and Hanna to say goodbye. As they’re walking out of the burn unit, Aria takes her ringing phone out of her pocket.

Answering the call, Aria tells Spencer to slow down. Spencer comments that there was bloody everywhere, and that she threw out the purse, but what if someone finds it and turns it in. Questioning whose blood it was, Aria listens as Spencer says she doesn’t know and it could be hers or Aria or Mona’s. As Spencer says that she thinks she is going to be sick, Aria tells Spencer that she really needs to calm down, but Spencer questions how, before asking if Aria knows what this means. Spencer goes on to say that it means ‘A’ put the blood in her bag before she got to the airport, and if they had found it in the x-ray machine she could still be there getting grilled by dozens of federal agents. Aria reminds Spencer that she’s not, and she’s lucky she found the blood, but Spencer cuts her off, saying that she’s freaking out and she wants to come home. Telling Spencer to come home, Aria listens as Spencer says she can’t, before wondering how she’s supposed to get on a plane, and what if they find a pinkie toe in her checked luggage. Aria tells Spencer that she’s not the only one being targeted, and when Spencer asks what Aria means, Aria tells her that ‘A’ put Cyrus in the hospital, “and I’m guessing it’s punishment for meeting Mike”. Spencer questions how, and Aria explains that it looks like ‘A’ hurt Cyrus and tried to make it look like a carjacking, to which Spencer says that she can’t be hearing this right now. Saying that she didn’t mean to upset her, Aria tells Spencer she didn’t mean it make it worse. As Spencer says that she doesn’t know what to do, Aria overhears Hanna arguing with the nurse, and tells Spencer that she has to go.

As Aria and Hanna are walking away from the nurse’s station, the nurse tells Hanna to next time wear pants. Hanna tells Aria that she could have taken the nurse, but Aria tells Hanna no, “you couldn’t have”. Waiting for an elevator, Hanna mentions that Aria could have distracted the nurse, and when Aria questions what Hanna would have wanted her to do, “juggle?”, Hanna exclaims that she could have done something. Hanna then says that the prison guards were less intimidating, and that when she took one step towards Cyrus’ room, the nurse flew over the desk like crouching tiger, hidden dragon. Walking into the elevator, Hanna adds that ‘A’ is tying up loose ends and Cyrus is one of them. As Hanna is grabbing her car keys from her pocket, the bandage packet that Cyrus wrote on falls out. When Hanna picks the packet up, she realises that the ‘C’ is a ‘V’, and telling Aria to look, Hanna comments that it’s not Carjack, they read it wrong, it’s Varjack. Taking the bandage packet, Aria listens as Hanna says that Cyrus wasn’t trying to tell them what happened, he was trying to tell them who did it. Aria questions if Hanna thinks that ‘A’ is going by the name Varjack, and Hanna wonders why not, before saying that Spencer always said how Alison was obsessed with Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Aria listens as Hanna adds that Alison turned into Holly for the fake passport, before she theorises that maybe ‘A’ is taunting her by being Paul Varjak. As Aria comments that Cyrus spelt Varjak wrong, Hanna realise that it’s awesome. Aria wonders why that’s awesome, “it just means he’s a bad speller”, to which Hanna mentions that it means Cyrus has never seen it written down, and that ‘A’ hasn’t contacted him through email or text. Aria then realises that Cyrus and ‘A’ spoke.

Aria is on the phone with Hanna as she walks into Mike’s bedroom. Looking around the room, Aria listens as Hanna asks if she’s talked with Mike and if he has any idea who Varjak is, but Aria tells her that she can’t find Mike, “he might be at a game. I’m looking for a schedule right now”. Noticing Mike’s schedule pinned to his dartboard, Aria tells Hanna that she’s going to call her back, before ending the call and climbing up on Mike’s weight bench. As Andrew calls out to Aria, asking if she’s home, Aria calls back, saying that she’s “up here”, all the while stretching to reach Mike’s lacrosse schedule. Just as she’s about to reach for the schedule, the weight bench collapses under Aria’s weight and sends her falling to the ground. Having heard the crash, Andrew rushes into Mike’s bedroom, and asks what happened and if Aria is okay. Attempting to sit up, Aria says she was standing on the weight bench and it broke. Picking up a nut and bolt, Andrew comments that that’ weird, and asking what, Aria listens as Andrew says that the nut and bolt don’t match and if Mike had been using the bench, the weights would have crushed his skull.

As Andrew checks over Aria ankle he asks if it hurts, and Aria tells him it does, “a little”. Andrew says he doesn’t think it’s broken, but she may have a sprain, before questioning what Aria was doing up on the weight bench. Saying that she was just grabbing something from the dart board, Aria listens as Andrew comments that this is why they need to hang out more, because he’s basically a human step ladder. As Andrew says that for such a petite girl she brings a lot of chaos, Aria just stares at the collapsed weights, and softly cry. Andrew says problems don’t scare him, but the swelling on Aria’s ankle does, and she may need to get a doctor to look at it, before he looks up to Aria and notices that she’s crying. Andrew offers Aria his sleeve to wipe her town, telling her to go to town, but Aria shakes her head and wipes away some of the tears. As the two share a look, Andrew leans in to kiss Aria, a kiss she reciprocates.

To Plea or Not to Plea

In a classroom at Rosewood High, Aria listens as Emily says that Hanna said Alison doesn’t know anyone named Varjak, to which Aria questions if Emily really believes that. Listening as Emily questions why Alison would lie, her life is one the line, Aria points out that Mike’s is as well. Emily then mentions that they need to talk with Cyrus because if Varjak paid him to set up Alison, than Varjak knows who ‘A’ is. Saying that she called the hospital this morning and the nurse said Cyrus had a setback, “he’s in the ICU”, Aria listens as Emily notes that maybe Mike should tell the cops what he knows, but Aria tells her that Mike will then end up in jail with Alison. Emily comments that it’s better than being in the ICU with Cyrus, to which Aria says that she’s not letting either of those things happen to her brother. Emily then suggests that maybe Ezra can help them, he did do a lot of research for his book and maybe he came across that name at some point. Before Aria can answer, the school bell rings and as students come filing into the classroom, Aria and Emily take a seat at their desks.

Aria is taking a call in the Rosewood High courtyard. Ending the call, she walks over to where Hanna and Emily are standing, and Hanna wonders what Jason said. Aria explains that Kenneth is with Alison right now, but she’s not taking any other visitors. Emily questions why Alison would do that, and Hanna says that it’s because Alison doesn’t want to face them. Aria then tells Hanna and Emily that Jason said that Alison’s lawyer got her so rattled about the trial that she’s considering taking the plea.

Walking through the hallways, Aria listens as Emily mentions that she’s going to call Spencer. Aria tells her not to, because if she tells Spencer about Alison’s plea, she’ll either bomb her interview or skip it and come home, “do you seriously want to be responsible for her not getting into St. Andrews?” Emily tells Aria no, before saying that Spencer will kill them if they don’t tell her what’s going on. Saying that she knows, Aria mentions that they should hold off until they know more, and Emily tells her fine, but they should go talk with Ezra. As Emily adds that if Ezra has any information on Varjak they need to know, Aria stutters, saying she can’t right now, “I have a history test in a few minutes and if I don’t get my grade in, I might lose my spot at Savannah”. Opening her locker, Aria watches as a note falls out, and picking it up, Emily reads aloud that the person who has written the note wishes Aria good luck, and they hope Aria’s ankle is alright. Grabbing the note, Aria listens as Emily says the person hopes to also make plans for Aria dinner tonight, before she reads that it’s from Andrew. Mentioning that it’s Andrew Campbell, Aria listens as Emily questions if there’s something going on between them, before saying that he’s helping her study. As Emily asks besides that, Aria shakes her head, “no”. Emily then wonders why Andrew is Aria to dinner, and why she is blushing, to which Aria confesses that they kissed, “you happy?” Emily questions that Aria kissed Andrew, and Aria tells Emily not to look at her like that. As Emily continues to give Aria a disbelieving look, Aria explains that Andrew helped her with her ankle last night, “he was comforting me and I… kinda just got caught up in the moment”. Listening as Emily questions what about Ezra, Aria tells Emily that she doesn’t know what’s going on between them and she can’t think about that right now. Closing her locker, and as the school bell rings, Aria says that Emily should go talk with Ezra and she’ll meet up with her after the test. When Emily says okay, Aria walks off.

Pulling up outside James Neilan’s office, Aria gets out of her car and rushes over to Emily who is leaning against her own car. Saying that she got here as fast as she could, Aria listens as Emily explains that Ezra’s just in there talking with Neilan. Emily notices a look cross Aria’s face, and when she asks if Aria is okay, Aria mentions that she hasn’t seen Ezra in a while and she doesn’t want things to be weird, to which Emily says she’s sure it’ll be fine. Ezra approaches Aria and Emily, and after Aria and Ezra greet each other, a silence falls between them, unsure of what to say to the other. Emily cuts in, questioning what James said to Ezra, and Ezra says that Neilan wouldn’t tell him anything. Aria notices James leaving his office, and telling Ezra and Emily to look, the three watch as James rushes from his office and gets into his car. As Emily comments that Neilan seems to be in a rush, Aria turns and starts heading back towards her own car, and calling out to Emily and Ezra, Aria questions whether they’re coming or not.

Following James Neilan out to a residence in the woods, Aria watches as James waits for a large double gate to open before he drives in, and Ezra comments that whoever lives here really wants to keep people out. Aria’s cell phone beeps with an incoming text, and reading over it, Aria turns her phone over, but not before Ezra has also had a chance to read the text, and question who Andrew is. Before Aria has a chance to answer, Emily tells them that they have to go, and after Emily gets from the car, Aria and Ezra share a look, before they to get from the car and run towards the closing double gates. The gates close before Aria and Ezra can get through, separating them from Emily. Emily comments that Aria and Ezra were behind her, and as Aria tells Emily to stay right there, Ezra mentions that he’s going to try and find another way onto the property. Looking around, Emily comments that it looks as though the fence goes around the whole place, before saying perhaps she could just take a look around. Aria tells Emily no, “we’re not letting you go in there by yourself”, to which Emily tells Aria she’ll be fine. Ezra reminds Emily she has no idea whose in the woods or the house, but Emily tells Ezra that by the time he and Aria find a way to get in the property, Neilan could be gone and he came here for a reason, and don’t they want to know what it is. Watching as Emily turns and heads down the gravel track, Aria listens as Ezra tells her to come on, and together they head down the boundary line to find a way in.

Walking along the boundary, Aria explains that he’s been helping her study, “Andrew”, and that’s why he was so excited to hear she did so well on the test. Ezra tells her that it’s good to hear that Andrew is supporting her, and Aria comments that she needs to keep her grades up if she wants to keep her spot at SCAD. Ezra notes that Emily mentioned that to him, and when he congratulates her, Aria thanks him. Listening as Ezra then says that he’s surprised she didn’t tell him that herself, Aria says that she meant to, “it’s just been a crazy week”. Ezra comments that it’s good to know that she’s not avoiding him, to which Aria wonders why she would, before suggesting that it’s probably best if they split up. When Ezra looks towards her, Aria explains that they’ll cover more territory that way. Asking Ezra to call her if she finds a way in, Aria turns and starts walking back in the opposite direction.

Aria is standing by her car, looking into the property, when Ezra meets back up with her, saying that he circled the entire property, and there’s no way they’re getting over that security fence. Saying that she’s calling Emily, grabs her cell phone from her pocket and starts dialling.

Aria tells Ezra that Emily’s not picking up, and noticing the double gates open, they duck behind the bushes. Watching as James Neilan leaves the property, Aria and Ezra come out of hiding when they notice Emily follow the car out. Aria tells Emily that she scared the crap out of them, before asking why Emily didn’t answer her phone. Emily tells them that it’s Varjak’s house, and when Ezra questions that Neilan is Varjak, Emily says no, but Neilan is working for Varjak. Aria’s cell phone beeps, and when she reacts to what she’s read, “oh my god!”, Emily questions what the message said, to which Aria announces that “Hanna’s been arrested”.

At the Rosewood Police Department, Aria listens as Caleb tells her and Emily that they have to show Tanner all of the pictures and all of the texts on their phones. Ezra then notes that if the girls do, Tanner will have no choice but to believe Hanna. As Emily says that should wait for Spencer to get back in the morning, before Aria and Emily’s cell phones beep with an incoming text. Emily reads the text aloud, “let’s all start with a clean slate. –A”, before Aria comments that all the text ‘A’ sent her are gone. Emily notes that hers are as well, and when Caleb questions that they’ve got nothing to help Hanna, Emily says that there is one thing. Aria listens as Emily says she found a receipt at Varjak’s, and handing it Ezra, she explains that the receipt doesn’t just have his name on it, it also has his phone number. Ezra concludes that either Varjak is ‘A’, or Varjak is working for A, but nonetheless, the receipt could help Hanna.

Sitting on a park seat in the middle of town, Aria thanks Ezra for meeting her when he sits down next to her. Ezra tells her that he brought her a muffin, but he can’t promise it’s any good as he’s trying out a new chef. Smiling as she takes the muffin, Aria listens as Ezra wonders if she’s figured out when she’d be able to see Hanna, to which Aria tells him that it won’t be for a few days, “she still has to be fully processed first”. Aria then mentions that she couldn’t sleep at all last night, she just kept thinking about how scared Hanna must be all alone in there. Listening as Ezra mentions that Hanna’s really strong and he thinks she’s going to be okay until her mom gets her out on bail, Aria comments that’s if Ashley gets her out on bail. A silence falls between them, and breaking that silence, Aria mentions that yesterday Ezra asked if she’d been avoiding him. Ezra comments that they don’t have to talk about this now, but Aria tells him that she needs to, and seeing him made her realise that. Aria then admits that she has been avoiding him, because she knows that when she says what she’s about to say, there’s no taking it back. Ezra nods, and as Aria says that Ezra was right, Ezra turns to face her. Aria goes on to say says that she did miss out on a lot of high school because of their relationship, “and although I don’t regret any of it, I think that when I go away to college I should be single”. Taking a moment, Ezra tells her that she’s making the right choice, but if they’re going to end it, they should do it now. Ezra tells Aria that the past few weeks have been so difficult not knowing where they stood, and it’s going to be so much harder if they’re just counting down the days until Aria goes. Realisation and emotion hitting, Aria comments that she cannot imagine her life without him, and Ezra tells her that she doesn’t have to, he wants her in his too. As Ezra adds that they’ll figure something out, Aria takes his hand.

The Melody Lingers On

Sitting at the island counter in Spencer’s kitchen, Aria and Emily listen as Spencer comments that if her head hadn’t been so jetlaggy she would have remembered sooner, but the number off the Varjak receipt is the same number as the personal ads in Alison’s house. Emily wonders how this helps Hanna, and Spencer mentions that if Alison’s not guilty, they can’t charge Hanna as an accessory, and you can’t help someone commit a crime they didn’t commit. Aria notes that Alison already told them that the letter and the passport are fake, so why should they think the number in the ads are real, to which Spencer admits she doesn’t know, but they didn’t find the number with the other things. Emily then questions what if the numbers are the same, what does that mean, before saying they call and it just rings, no pickup, no voicemail, nothing. As Aria adds that meanwhile Neilan’s law office is closed and locked, Spencer notes that the number appearing twice has got to mean something, they just have to figure it out, to which Emily wonders what will happen if they don’t figure it out in time. As Veronica comes down the stairs, the girls hide the personal ads and Varjak receipt, before turning and listening as Veronica comments that the girls are going to be late for school. Spencer says that there are teacher conferences, and they dropped the first two periods. Veronica then mentions that this is her chance to talk to the three of them, before saying that she wants to strongly suggest that the girls stay away from Alison’s trial. The girls look to each other, before Spencer questions that this is a suggestion, to which Veronica tells her that for Aria and Emily, yes, but her Spencer it’s more than a suggestion. Aria listens as Emily wonders what Alison will think if they’re not there, but Veronica says that she’s more concerned by what other people will think, and that jury’s have eyes. Spencer mentions that the whole town knows they’re friends with Alison, and when Aria adds that if they don’t go it’ll look like they think Alison’s guilty, Veronica tells Aria that she can’t tell her and Emily what to do, but they should consider their actions. Spencer then questions what they’re going to do when Hanna goes to trial, and if they’re supposed to turn their backs on her too, and when Veronica says that they’re not talking about ethics, Spencer tells her that that’s for sure. Aria and Emily share an uncomfortable look, and when Emily suggests that perhaps they should go, the two get up from their seats and head off towards the door.

In The Brew, Aria, Emily and Spencer sit with Caleb, who tells them that everything he’s tried to trace the Varjak number back to a source just disappears into a black hole of nothingness. As Caleb comments that the phone on the other end could be on Mars of the other side of the room, Spencer questions that it’s an insanely secure phone and someone uses it to order pizza. As Emily questions that perhaps the person on the other end doesn’t know what they have, Aria wonders why they don’t pick up when they call, which leads Spencer to ask Caleb if he has a burner phone. When Caleb passes Spencer one, Aria listens as Emily mentions that the number is just going to keep ringing, to which Spencer says they’ll see what happens when she puts it in writing. Spencer shows Caleb, Aria, Emily and the text, “did you miss me? Love, Holly”, and Emily questions if Spencer meant Holly Golightly or Holly Varjak. Caleb tells Spencer to send it, and as Spencer is doing so, Aria asks what happens if they’re not in the same book club. Spencer tells her that they'll figure out something else, before she passes the burner phone back to Caleb. Aria then asks if Spencer will be at Alison’s trial tomorrow, and Spencer says that she doesn’t know. After Spencer gets up and leaves, Aria listens as Emily asks Caleb if he’s going to visit Hanna, and Caleb tells her he is tomorrow. Caleb adds that Hanna said she’ll try and call him today, and Emily mentions that Hanna has to get to Alison and tell her about the phone number.

Walking into a classroom at Rosewood High, Aria finds Andrew laying out some papers on desks. Greeting him, “hey”, Aria listens as Andrew greets her back, before he comments that she’s been hard to find. Aria says that she knows, “I’m sorry, I meant to text you back”, but there’s just been a lot going on. Andrew tells her he knows, and as he asks how it went, Aria just looks at him. Andrew questions the test, before asking if he’s a successful tutor. With a smile, Aria tells him he’s “very successful”, and walking past Aria to get another stack of papers, Andrew tells her that’s good. Listening as Andrew questions how Mike is, Aria says that he’s okay, “I guess”, and that he’s up in Harrisburg with his lacrosse team, “they’re turning it into a field trip”. Adding that she’s glad Mike’s out of town to keep his mind off, “you know”, and Andrew surmises that she means the trial, to which Aria confirms, “the trial”. Andrew questions that it’s happening fast, and Aria tells him that that’s how Mr DiLaurentis wanted it, “no motions, no delays”. Andrew mentions that he guesses that’s what Mr DiLaurentis thinks is best for Alison, to which Aria says she guesses so. Changing the subject, Aria asks how Andrew is, and Andrew tells her that he’s fine, but he’s getting a little tired of memorialising Mona, and that Mrs Horowitz keeps talking about her. Aria suggests that Mrs Horowitz is just trying to understand like the rest of them, and Andrew says that he supposes, but it’s like Mrs Horowitz is ready to nominate Mona for sainthood, our best scholar, our martyred hero. As Andrew adds that it’s like Mona won every championship on her own, Aria mentions that she guesses Mona was a pretty aggressive competitor, to which Andrew says she wasn’t aggressive, she was vicious, and he’s seen Mona intellectually kneecap dozens of kids and the only thing Mona likes better than winning is taking the credit. Listening as Andrew says that they’re lucky Mona didn’t get to college and start thinking of running for president, Aria wonders if Andrew is saying that the world is better off without Mona, and Andrew clarifies that he’s saying there are other people on the team.

Walking into Alison’s trial, Aria and Emily look towards Alison. Alison’s eyebrow furrow as if to ask if Spencer is coming, to which Aria shakes her head. As proceedings get underway, Aria listens as the prosecutor goes through his opening statement, asking the jury to remember high school, before saying that Ms. Marcus, Alison’s lawyer, will soon be telling them of an amazing story about Alison DiLaurentis and how she was kidnapped and traumatized by two years of captivity, how she escaped her captors and returned home with the help of her closest friends, but the Commonwealth will proved with direct testimony of witnesses that Alison DiLaurentis’ epic tale of abduction and escape is a lie. Douglas then adds that Alison planned and carried out the murder of Mona Vanderwaal, consigning her to a cruel, anonymous end.

Outside the courtroom and on the phone with Spencer, Aria tells Spencer that the prosecution know about Alison not being kidnapped and they probably know about New York too. Spencer wonders how they could know, and Aria tells, “witnesses, Spencer. He said they’ve got witnesses”. Spencer realises that it must be Cyrus, and when Aria questions her, “Cyrus?”, Emily questions what Aria and Spencer mean by Cyrus. Spencer then tells Aria that the cops must have found Cyrus, he knows the whole kidnapping story and he’d do anything to save himself, before asking where Mike is. Saying that Mike’s in Harrisburg, Aria listens as Spencer says that that’s good, before she herself wonders why that’s good. As Spencer is about to answer Aria, the girls are stopped by Kenneth who comes storming down towards Aria and Emily, saying they all knew about Alison’s fake kidnapping story, and they told the police. Aria listens as Kenneth concludes that the four girls talked Alison into lying and it was their idea, before Jason steps in, telling Kenneth that Alison lied to the girls the same way she lied to them. Rebecca steps in between the DiLaurentis men, telling them not to get into it here, and giving Aria and Emily one last look, Kenneth turns and walks back down the hall. As Rebecca and Jason turn and follow Kenneth, Aria asks if Spencer heard what had just happened. Spencer tells her that she did, and Aria mentions that they adjourned for the day, “but we’ll call if anything else happens”.

In The Brew, Aria questions if the Varjak phone number is a dead end or not, and Spencer tells her that if it’s Mona’s then it’s a dead end. Emily notes that Mona’s dead, before questioning who the lawyer was talking to, and that he had to be getting his instructions from someone. Aria’s cell phone rings, and looking at the caller ID Aria tells Spencer, Emily and a newly arrived Caleb that it’s the Varjak number. Spencer tells her to answer it, but Aria wonders why it has her number, “I never called from my phone”. Emily tells Aria to answer it quick, and when Aria says that Varjak will then know where they are, Caleb snatches the phone out of Aria’s hand, saying that they don’t have time for this. Answering the call, Caleb listens, before he places Aria’s cell on loud speaker for the girls to hear music playing on the other end of the line.

In Caleb’s apartment, Aria, Caleb, Emily and Spencer play the recording that Aria received on her cell to Hanna. Caleb asks if she’s getting it, and when Hanna says that she is, Spencer comments that they don’t know what it means. Hanna tells them that she knows what it means, or she doesn’t know, but she’s heard it before. Aria listens as Emily asks where, and Hanna tells them she’s heard it in Mona’s room, before explaining that Mona used to play this song, French music, from people like Edith Pilaf. Aria questions if Hanna means like the rice dish, but Spencer says that Hanna meant Piaf, Edith Piaf. Turning off the music, Caleb tells that girls that Alison was wrong, it was never Mona taunting her, it was ‘A’, and when Emily questions why ‘A’ would call back and play that song, and why not let them keep thinking it was Mona, Caleb says it’s A’s way of rubbing it in their faces. Aria concludes that Mona never sent the lawyer, “but that doesn’t mean she left us in the dark”, and Emily mentions that Mona hid the tape Hanna found in the book. As Emily says that the police went all over Mona’s room and never found it, Hanna wonders so, to which Spencer says that maybe there’s more and maybe the answers are still in Mona’s bedroom. Aria listens as Emily says that they’ve got to get back to Mona’s room, and Spencer tells Hanna that she spent more time in that room than any of them, so she should try to think of places Mona would have hid stuff. Aria then mentions that they need to talk to Mona’s mom, and when Emily comments that Leona wasn’t at the trial, Spencer says that it’s got to be hard to hear people talking about your dead daughter, to which Hanna exclaims that if there is something in Mona’s room that could get her out of prison, she doesn’t care how upset Leona is, they just need to find it. Caleb tells Hanna that they’ll do it, and as there’s a beeping coming over the line, Hanna says that she’s about to be cut off. As Spencer tells Hanna to hang on, Aria comments for her to stay strong, and Emily says that they love her, the call ends. As Aria, Spencer, Emily and Caleb all take a step back from the cell phones, Caleb hands Aria her phone back, apologising for grabbing it from her. Saying that it’s okay, Aria listens as Caleb tells her it’s not, if they start stepping on each other, none of them are going to make it out alive. Emily then questions if they should go see Mona’s mom, and Spencer says that shouldn’t all go at once, it’s just going to scare her. Aria volunteers to do it, “I’m the least intimidating”, and Emily volunteers to drive her. As the three girls turn to all leave, Caleb calls out to Spencer. All three girls turn, and when Spencer tells Aria and Emily that she’ll call them later, Aria and Emily walks out the door.

Walking back to Emily’s car after having knocked on the Vanderwaal’s front door, Aria tells Emily that there was no answer. Emily wonders if Aria really thinks there’s something up in Mona’s room, or if they’re just chasing smoke. Aria comments that she doesn’t know, “but whatever Mona was, she wasn’t stupid”, so if she knew what might happen, she could have left them a clue. As Emily reels of the ifs, might’s and could’s, Aria mentions that it’s all they’ve got. Emily questions what if it’s not enough, before saying that they’re running out of time and they’re all going to get dragged down the rabbit hole with Alison. Wondering if Emily just wants to give up and go shopping, Aria just smiles when Emily quizzically looks at her, before Emily tells her not just yet.

Along with the rest of the courtroom, Aria watches the video of Mona being attacked on the day she died. Aria listens as the prosecutor asks why Jason has decided to tell the truth about Alison’s alibi, Jason comments that he doesn’t know. When the prosecutor wonders if it’s because of something Jason saw on the video, Jason says that he doesn’t think so, and Spencer whispers to Aria that something’s wrong, he’s changing his story. Jason then adds that he now believes that Alison couldn’t have been the one to attack Mona. The prosecutor then asks Jason if knows a girl named Hanna Marin, to which Jason says he does, before confirming that Hanna is one of Alison’s friends. The prosecutor asks Jason who Ashley Marin is, and after Jason explains that she’s Hanna’s mom, he’s asked to point Ashley out for the jury. As Jason says Ashley is in the third row wearing a blue dress, all eyes, including Aria’s, go to Ashley. The prosecutor goes on to ask whether on occasion Jason met with Ashley out of the office, and when Jason tells him yes, Mr Sirk asks whether their meetings were social, to which Jason confirms that they were. Mr Sirk then questions whether these social meetings were always in public places, and after Jason says that most of them were, the prosecutor questions that not all of them were and some were in private. When Jason admits that some of his meetings with Ashley were in private, Aria turns to Emily and asks if Jason is saying what she thinks he’s saying, and Emily questions if the situation is serious. Mr Sirk questions whether Jason would describe the meetings as intimate, to which Jason says that they were private. As the prosecutor asks whether anything happened during these private meetings with the attractive woman seated in the gallery that lead Jason to alter his testimony, Jason tells him no.

Outside the courtroom, Aria listens as Emily questions whether they think Hanna knew about her mom’s affair with Jason, before commenting that Hanna did, “and it looks like ‘A’ knew about it too”. Emily then questions that what was said in the courtroom hurt Alison, and Spencer tells Emily and Aria that it made it sound like Alison’s own brother thinks she did it. Aria says it was until Hanna’s mom convinced Jason to change his story, and Emily wonders if they think that’s what Ashley did. Spencer then tells Aria and Emily to hang on, and the two watch as Spencer makes her way down the hallways towards Jason.

After Jason has walked off on Spencer, Aria and Emily approach. Aria asks what Jason said, and turning to face the girls, Spencer says that the truth will set you free but first it turns you inside out. Spencer tells the girls to come on, and when Emily question where they’re going, Spencer tells them they’re going to Mona’s house.

At the Vanderwaal residence, Aria and Emily stand back on the porch as Spencer knocks on the front door. Emily questions if they think Leona is in there, before Aria calls out, “Mrs Vanderwaal”. Emily then questions that if Leona’s not here, and she wasn’t at the trial, then where is she, and Spencer comments that Leona is hiding, and she doesn’t blame her. Saying that it was a long shot, Aria starts walking back down the porch stairs, and Spencer tells her that long shots are all they have. As the girls are walking down the path, they start to hear music playing. Looking up towards Mona’s bedroom, they see the window open. Rushing towards the front door, Emily finds the door open, and the three girls run inside and up the stairs into Mona’s bedroom, finding it trashed. As Spencer says that it was a good idea, Aria watches as Emily walks over to the record player and finds a note stashed in a dolls head, “finders keepers, losers weepers. Quelle tristesse. –A”. Looking around the room, Aria tells the girls to wait, and when Spencer asks her what, Aria questions how you would stop someone from searching a room. Emily asks what Aria means, and Aria questions why they think ‘A’ found something just because they said so. Spencer realises that the note was written to taunt them, and Aria suggests it could also have been to trick them. As Emily says they should think like Mona, both Aria and Spencer give her a look, and Emily tells them it just has to be for a minute. Aria begins to look around the room, before watching as Spencer picks up a handheld mirror from Mona’s dressing table. Shaking the mirror, Spencer hears it sound, and pulling off the glass, she finds a message Mona had hidden, “Chandelier’s rituals. Sister launched lair. A ruler’s list chained”.

Walking back down the stairs, Spencer, Aria and Emily leave the Vanderwaal house.

Walking into The Brew with Emily, Aria asks what the hell a chandelier ritual is, but Emily says she has no idea. As Emily tells Aria to let her change, she thinks better in lower heels, Aria watches as she walks off towards The Brew’s kitchen. Looking around, Aria turns back when Andrew calls her name as he approaches. Listening as Andrew tells her he didn’t want her getting the wrong idea, Aria questions him, “about what?”, and Andrew explains that he’s been thinking and he realises that he made a really bad impression when he said what he did about Mona. Aria tells him that everything about Mona was complicated, to which Andrew says that when he said what he did about her, he saw the look that crossed Aria’s face, and it wasn’t the way he wanted her to look at him, ever. Saying that it’s just her face, “sometimes it does things without checking with me first”, Aria listens as Andrew tells her that it sounded like he was saying that Mona deserved what happened to her, and he doesn’t believe that. Aria tells him that nobody does, and Andrew says that it was bothering him, so he just wanted to make sure they were clear on this, to which Aria says they’re clear. Andrew then tells Aria that if she needs him for anything, like cramming for an exam, or driving out to some roadhouse, she has him on speed dial. Saying, “right”, Aria listens as Andrew comments that he feels better, before he leans in and kisses her on the cheek. Noticing the look on Aria’s face as he pulls back, Andrew comments that he guesses he surprised her face again, to which Aria says that it’s okay. Saying that she’ll call him, Andrew tells her okay, before walking from the establishment.

I'm a Good Girl, I Am

Aria and the others are at the courthouse for Alison's trial. They watch on in shock as the surprise witness- Leslie Stone- storms in and takes the stand. Leslie tells the court that she and Mona talked on the phone and texted a lot and were very close last summer. The prosecutor shows the court a card that Mona sent to Leslie two weeks before Thanksgiving. In the card, Mona claimed that she was having a hard time and that Alison had threatened her that if she didn’t keep her mouth shut about Alison’s fake kidnapping, Mona would be “eaten by worms.” Leslie says that she didn’t share the card with the police earlier because she was studying for midterms and put it in a textbook, and so couldn’t find it. Leslie firther elaborates that she didn’t take the card seriously as she thought feuds were common in high school and didn’t understand the magnitude of Mona’s situation until it was too late. Leslie adds that when she came to Rosewood to visit Leona, she noticed that although Alison was in jail, her friends were always on edge about anyone asking any questions about Mona. She mentions how she was “practically attacked” by Mona’s boyfriend for borrowing a book from her room. Just then, Andrew slides into the seat next to Aria and holds her hand. Leslie agrees with the prosecutor that Alison’s friends were hiding something to protect Alison.

After the court session, Aria, Spencer, and Emily have a conference call with Alison and Hanna. Hanna is on one phone while Alison is on another. The girls fill Alison in about Leslie. Aria thinks that Leslie may be another one of A’s traps, but Hanna believes that Leslie cared about Mona. The girls tell Alison about the cryptic note they found in Mona’s room. The girls are worried as they are running out of time and have no clue on how to save Alison as she has no alibi. Alison states that according to her lawyer, going after a possible witness is a waste of time. Elaborating on this statement, Alison explains that while she was waiting for Cyrus at the playground, she heard someone there and saw their jacket. She thought it was ‘A’ and panicked and ran away. Hanna and Alison’s calls get cut off as their time is up.

That night, Aria pulls Mike into her room and tells him about Leslie’s testimony. She warns him that he could get called to testify. Mike is ready to tell the truth, but she tells him to keep his mouth shut about ‘A’. He snaps that he is done keeping secrets and thinks that Mona would probably still be alive if he had gone to the cops earlier. Aria tells him that if tells the truth about ‘A’, it will come back to bite him. Mike is disgusted that Aria is telling him to perjure himself but Aria tells him that she just wants him to have three answers in court: “Yes”, “No” and “I don’t remember.” Later that night, Mike comes home from practice and brings in a package left at the porch. Mike and Aria think that its photo supplies for the yearbook since Ella made Aria in-charge to distract her from the trial. Mike tells her that he has to tell the truth to help Alison and Hanna but Aria doesn’t want him to. Inside the box, they find a huge cow tongue. They freak out and Aria tells him that it is a warning from ‘A’. Hearing the commotion, Ella walks in but Aria tells her that nothing is wrong.

The next day, Aria is meets with Ezra at The Brew and tells him about the package. Ezra advises her to take the package to the police but Aria reminds him about what happened to Hanna when she tried to tell the police about ‘A’. Aria asks him to take Mike up to his cabin to keep him away from the trial but Ezra tells her that he cannot stop Mike from testifying if he is subpoenaed. Aria tells him to explain to Mike how dangerous it is to testify and informs him that their parents are ready to send Mike out of town too. Ezra is hesitant but agrees.

At school, while Aria is working on the yearbook, Andrew walks into the classroom. He asks Aria why she failed to call him the previous night, but she shrugs it off, saying that she had family stuff to deal with. Andrew wants to know if the family stuff is actully about Mike. Aria admits that it is: Alison's trial is starting to mess with Mike's head and so she has asked Ezra to take Mike away for a couple of days. Andrew is surprised that Aria went to Ezra for help instead of come to him since he thought that her and Ezra were over for good. Aria assures him that though they are definitely broken up, Mike bonded with Ezra after Mona's memorial. Andrew, a little hurt, states that he can bond with Mike too, "you don't need a teaching degree for that." Aria tries to reassure him that she and Ezra are just friends, it's just that Ezra's got a cabin up in the Poconos, and so her parents are comfortable with him taking Mike up there. Contemptuously, Andrew comments that Ezra has "got Mom and Pop on his side, too." Aria tries to make him understand that it's not a competition between him and Ezra, she and Ezra happen to have a lot of history. Andrew states that he has offered to help Aria the same way that Ezra has but he thinks that Aria doesn’t seem to hear him when he says that he’s there for her. Ella tells Aria to get back to work. Aria comforts him, saying that she does hear him and gives him a kiss.

At home that night, Ella tells Aria that Spencer and Emily had no right to corner Kendra at school. Aria defends them, saying that they are just trying find someone to back up Alison’s story that she wasn’t in Rosewood on Thanksgiving day. Aria confronts her mom and demands to know what Kendra is trying to hide. Ella is hesitant about breaching Kendra’s trust but Aria tells her she has two friends sitting in jail and Kendra may know something to help them. Ella confesses that Kendra told her she went to a party and experimented with drugs. She had a bad reaction and got so high that she slept in the playground to sober up because she didn’t want her parents to know. But Kendra never mentioned seeing Alison or anyone else in the playground. Ella questions her why she is so sure Alison is innocent and insists that she separate herself from Alison. Aria asks her whether she is supposed to abandon Hanna too. Later that night, Aria is trying to get in contact with Mike and Ezra, but none of them is picking up their phones or the landline at the cabin. As a last resort, she calls Andrew and asks him to drive up to Ezra’s cabin and check on Mike, but Andrew doesn't pick up her calls.

The next day at court, Alison's lawyer is able to prove that since Alison sustained a fracture on her right elbow when she was about 3 years old and it didn’t heal properly, there is no way she could have killed Mona. A wave of relief washes over Aria and the others. But this is soon squashed when the prosecutor shows the court a certificate that Alison received when she was 11 years old for her exemplary archery skills, which means there is nothing wrong with her right arm. Aria, Emily, and Spencer all receive a text from ‘A’: “Bullseye, Bitches!” Later, Aria sits by the stairwell in the courthouse, waiting for the jury's verdict, when Andrew walks up to her. Aria asks him why he didn't pick up her calls the previous night and Andrew claims that he was busy completing his yearbook page and his phone must have died. Andrew wants to know why Aria is sitting on the stairs, to which she replies "it's either here or the parking lot." Aria confesses that she hates waiting and so Andrew offers to join her and she accepts. As they sit together, Andrew asks for Aria's help on his yearbook page. Aria reads through his page and smiling, comments "I know you're a nice guy and all, but I didn't know you were an award-winning Pathfinder scout." Andrew admits that he was one for twelve years and says "You never know when those skills are gonna come in handy."

After deliberation, the jury returns and pronounces Alison guilty of murder in the first degree. The liars watch in horror as mayhem ensues as Alison, is handcuffed and taken into custody. Tanner orders the officer with her to arrest Spencer, Emily, and Aria. The girls are then booked at the police station.

Appearances (135/140)
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Season 1 (22/22)

 * Pilot
 * The Jenna Thing
 * To Kill a Mocking Girl
 * Can You Hear Me Now?
 * Reality Bites Me
 * There's No Place Like Homecoming
 * The Homecoming Hangover
 * Please, Do Talk About Me When I'm Gone
 * The Perfect Storm
 * Keep Your Friends Close
 * Moments Later
 * Salt Meets Wound
 * Know Your Frenemies
 * Careful What U Wish 4
 * If At First You Don't Succeed, Lie, Lie Again
 * Je Suis une Amie
 * The New Normal
 * The Badass Seed
 * A Person of Interest
 * Someone to Watch Over Me
 * Monsters in the End
 * For Whom the Bell Tolls
 * style="vertical-align:top; width:25%;" |

Season 2 (25/25)

 * It's Alive
 * The Goodbye Look
 * My Name Is Trouble
 * Blind Dates
 * The Devil You Know
 * Never Letting Go
 * Surface Tension
 * Save the Date
 * Picture This
 * Touched by an 'A'-ngel
 * I Must Confess
 * Over My Dead Body
 * The First Secret
 * Through Many Dangers, Toils, and Snares
 * A Hot Piece of A
 * Let the Water Hold Me Down
 * The Blond Leading the Blind
 * A Kiss Before Lying
 * The Naked Truth
 * CTRL: A
 * Breaking the Code
 * Father Knows Best
 * Eye of the Beholder
 * If These Dolls Could Talk
 * UnmAsked
 * style="vertical-align:top; width:25%;" |

Season 3 (24/24)
{|
 * It Happened 'That Night'
 * Blood Is The New Black
 * Kingdom of the Blind
 * Birds of a Feather
 * That Girl is Poison
 * The Remains of the "A"
 * Crazy
 * Stolen Kisses
 * The Kahn Game
 * What Lies Beneath
 * Single Fright Female
 * The Lady Killer
 * This Is A Dark Ride
 * She's Better Now
 * Mona-Mania
 * Misery Loves Company
 * Out of the Frying Pan, Into the Inferno
 * Dead to Me
 * What Becomes of the Broken-Hearted
 * Hot Water
 * Out of Sight, Out of Mind
 * Will The Circle Be Unbroken?
 * I’m Your Puppet
 * A DAngerous GAme
 * }
 * style="vertical-align:top; width:25%;" |

Season 4 (24/24)

 * 'A' is for A-l-i-v-e
 * Turn of the Shoe
 * Cat's Cradle
 * Face Time
 * Gamma Zeta Die!
 * Under The Gun
 * Crash and Burn, Girl!
 * The Guilty Girl's Handbook
 * Into the Deep
 * The Mirror Has Three Faces
 * Bring Down the Hoe
 * Now You See Me, Now You Don't
 * Grave New World
 * Who's In The Box?
 * Love ShAck, Baby
 * Close Encounters
 * Bite Your Tongue
 * Hot for Teacher
 * Shadow Play
 * Free Fall
 * She's Come Undone
 * Cover For Me
 * Unbridled
 * A is for Answers
 * style="vertical-align:top; width:25%;" |

Season 5 (25/25)

 * EscApe From New York
 * Whirly Girlie
 * Surfing the Aftershocks
 * Thrown From The Ride
 * Miss Me x 100
 * Run, Ali, Run
 * The Silence of E. Lamb
 * Scream For Me
 * March of Crimes
 * A Dark Ali
 * No One Here Can Love or Understand Me
 * Taking This One to the Grave
 * How the 'A' Stole Christmas
 * Through a Glass, Darkly
 * Fresh Meat
 * Over a Barrel
 * The Bin of Sin
 * Oh, What Hard Luck Stories They All Hand Me
 * Out, Damned Spot
 * Pretty Isn't the Point
 * Bloody Hell
 * To Plea or Not to Plea
 * The Melody Lingers On
 * I'm a Good Girl, I Am
 * Welcome to the Dollhouse
 * style="vertical-align:top; width:25%;" |

Season 6 (20/20)

 * Game On, Charles
 * Songs of Innocence
 * Songs of Experience
 * Don't Look Now
 * She's No Angel
 * No Stone Unturned
 * O Brother, Where Art Thou
 * FrAmed
 * Last Dance
 * Game Over, Charles
 * Of Late I Think Of Rosewood
 * Charlotte's Web
 * The Gloves Are On
 * New Guys, New Lies
 * Do Not Disturb
 * Where Somebody Waits For Me
 * We've All Got Baggage
 * Burn This
 * Did You Miss Me?
 * Hush Hush Sweet Liars
 * }

Ezra
Ezra Fitz: Dated (See "Ezria")
 * -|1st=
 * Started: "Pilot"
 * Ended: "Reality Bites Me"
 * Reason: "A" texts Aria while her phone is at Ezra's apartment, leading him to believe she told someone about their secret relationship.


 * -|2nd=
 * Started: "Keep Your Friends Close"
 * Reason: Ezra says he was a jerk and asks Aria to take him back.
 * Ended: "For Whom the Bell Tolls"
 * Reason: Aria thinks Ezra still has feelings for Jackie, and is also upset because Ezra didn't tell her Jackie worked at Hollis. And she is mad he lied to her.


 * -|3rd=
 * Started: "The Goodbye Look"
 * Reason: Aria realizes she has made a mistake leaving Ezra and runs back to him by his car, where they kiss and make up.
 * Ended: Between "Over My Dead Body" and "Through Many Dangers, Toils, and Snares"
 * Reason: Jackie blackmailed Aria to break up with Ezra and Aria didn't want Ezra to get in trouble with the cops following her arrest.


 * -|4th=
 * Started: "Through Many Dangers, Toils, and Snares"
 * Reason: One month later, Ezra finds out about Jackie blackmailing Aria and decides to tell her parents about their relationship.
 * Ended: "A Hot Piece of A"
 * Reason: Aria's dad threatened Ezra that if he ever saw Aria again, he would turn him into the police.


 * -|5th=
 * Started: "The Blond Leading the Blind"
 * Reason: Ezra realized he wanted to be with Aria so he went to meet her in Philly.
 * Ended: "A DAngerous GAme"
 * Reason: Aria wanted to protect Ezra and Malcolm.


 * -|6th=
 * Started: "Close Encounters"
 * Reason: Aria broke up with Jake to be with Ezra, whom she was still in love. Ezra was "the one" and had always been.
 * Ended: "Free Fall"
 * Reason: Aria finds out that Ezra was writing a book about her and her friends, and the basis of their relationship was based on a lie.


 * -|1 Night Stand=
 * Started: "Miss Me x 100"
 * Reason: Ezra tells Aria he never wants to hear her say sorry again and he leans in to kiss her. They continue to kiss more passionately before having sex.
 * Ended: "Run, Ali, Run"
 * Reason: Aria tells Ezra that them sleeping together was a mistake, and that they can't go back to the way they were, even though they're still in love with each other.


 * -|7th=
 * Started: Between "No One Here Can Love or Understand Me" and "Taking This One to the Grave"
 * Reason: Aria and Ezra have been spending a lot of time together, and as a result the Montgomery's invited Ezra over for Thanksgiving dinner. Aria also refers to Ezra as her 'bed buddy'.
 * Ended: "To Plea or Not to Plea" 
 * Reason: Aria tells Ezra that she feels she should be single when she goes to college. Ezra decides it would be best to break up so that they are not counting down the days until their relationship ends.

Noel
Noel Kahn: Briefly dated. (See "Ariel")
 * -|1st=
 * Started: "Please, Do Talk About Me When I'm Gone"
 * Ended: "Moments Later"
 * Reason: Aria had stronger feelings for Ezra and ends up making out with him, which Noel sees.

Jason
Jason DiLaurentis: Kissed (See "Jaria ")
 * -|1st=
 * Started: Blind Dates
 * Ended: Picture This
 * Reason: After Jason kissed Aria and confessed that he liked her, she told him that she was not available.

Jake
Jake: Briefly dated. (See "Jakria")
 * -|1st=
 * Started: "Turn of the Shoe "
 * Ended: "Face Time"
 * Reason: Aria told Jake about Ezra, however they still remained in contact as friends. But then became more than that.


 * -|2nd=
 * Started back up: "Into the Deep"
 * Reason: Aria gets jealous of Jake taking another girl to Emily's birthday party.
 * Ended: "Close Encounters"
 * Reason: Aria ends things with Jake to get back together with Ezra.

Riley
Riley: One-night stand. (see "Raria")
 * -|1st=
 * Started: "Cover For Me"
 * Reason: Having found out the truth about Ezra, Aria goes to stay with her dad in Syracuse and meets Riley on tour of Syracuse University.
 * Ended: "Cover For Me"
 * Reason: Aria leaves Syracuse for Rosewood, and Riley leaves to go talk to his parents about getting accepted into Berkley.

Andrew
Andrew Campbell: Ex-Boyfriend (see "Andria")
 * -|1st=
 * Started: Bloody Hell
 * Reason: After Aria sprains her ankle in Mike's bedroom, Andrew wraps her ankle and as he's comforting her, he leans in to kiss her.
 * Ended: Songs of Innocence
 * Reason: The Liars suspect that Andrew is doubling as Charles DiLaurentis ("A") and was the one that trapped them in the "Dollhouse"

Trivia

 * The name, "Aria" means Solo Melody, which is a kind of song in the opera and Aria is also a great singer.
 * "Aria" means air in Italian.
 * Lucy Hale auditioned for the role of Hanna Marin as well but was given the role of Aria Montgomery instead.
 * Aria has an alternative fashion sense and loves music.
 * Out of the four Liars, Aria has the second most secrets after Spencer.
 * In "The Perfect Storm", we learn that Aria is a talented singer.
 * Aria was the first Liar to receive a message from "A".
 * Aria is also the first Liar to have a flashback of Alison.
 * In "Father Knows Best", the other four girls (Spencer, Emily, Hanna and Mona) all agree that Aria is the best liar.
 * Out of all four girls, Aria has received the fewest messages from "A".
 * Aria has received 17 individual messages from "A", plus 21 messages sent to all four girls.
 * Aria is vegetarian (as revealed to Jake in "The Mirror Has Three Faces").
 * Aria has had the least amount of harassment from "A". This could be because she and Alison had a neutral relationship.
 * Aria has cheated on every boyfriend she's had (except Andrew). When she was dating Noel, she cheated on him by making out with Ezra. When she was dating Ezra, she kissed Jason in Season 2 and with Wesley, his brother, in Season 3. When she was dating Jake, she kissed Ezra.
 * Aria seems to be the closest to Spencer. They are constantly hanging out and comforting each other. This friendship may be because of neither of them being completely awestruck by Ali. She is also fairly close to Hanna and Emily.
 * Aria used to have a pink highlights prior to Alison's death and moving to Iceland.
 * Ezra and Aria started and ended their relationship to the same song "Begin Again" by Measure and it was the same hallway. ("Pilot" and "A DAngerous GAme")
 * Aria is the only girl who hasn't had a one-on-one scene with Toby or Wren.
 * Aria was the only Liar to have a scene with Sara Shepard.
 * Aria is the second Liar to kill someone on the show, after Emily. She accidentally killed Shana in "EscApe From New York".
 * Aria lost her virginity to Ezra in "If These Dolls Could Talk".
 * Aria's email address is shown in "Fresh Meat", aria_montgomery@yourmail005.com

Book Comparisons
Main Article: Aria Montgomery (Book Character) 
 * She had pink highlights a year ago before going to Iceland, whilst in the book it was 3 years ago.
 * In the books, Aria had blue-black hair and ice-blue eyes and is described as freakishly tall. In the show, she's a brunette with hazel eyes and short in height.
 * In the books, Aria's parents want their children to call them by their first names (Ella and Byron), while in the series, they are called "Mom" and "Dad."
 * In the books, Aria is known to be anti-Rosewood and calls the people there "Typical Rosewoods". There's no mention of her dislike in the show.
 * Aria's parents get divorced after Ella learns about Bryon's affair and he marries Meredith Gates, the woman who he cheated on Aria's mom with in the first place, and together their union produces Lola Montgomery, Aria's half-sister in the books. On the show, her parents get back together after the affair, but begin divorce proceedings the following year. However, the divorce had nothing to do with the affair, but with their parents differing views on Aria and Ezra.
 * In the Pilot episode, Aria is the first character shown/mentioned after the flashback of the sleepover, while in the book, it was Emily.
 * In the book series, she was considered the "weird, kooky girl" of Rosewood before Alison's disappearance, while in the TV series, this is not mentioned.
 * In the books she loses her virginity to a boy she met in Iceland, Oskar, whilst in the TV series, she loses her virginity to Ezra.
 * In the TV series, Aria dates Ezra and shortly dated Noel, while in the books they have a relationship after Ezra leaves.
 * In the books, Aria only briefly dates Ezra, but in the show, Aria and Ezra have been together since the Pilot.
 * In the books, Aria goes out with Noel, and their relationship is pretty serious, whereas in the show, their relationship is short and Aria cheats on Noel with Ezra, and then dumps him for Ezra.
 * In the books, Aria dated Sean Ackard for a brief time. In the TV series, she refuses to go out with him because she's Hanna's friend first.
 * In the books, Ella is upset with Aria for keeping her fathers affair a secret, whilst in the series she blames Byron for making Aria keep it a secret.
 * Aria secretly gets married in Vegas to a boy she met in Iceland and gets a divorce a day later, this did not happen in the show.