The police think they have a break in the case when the Bay City Butcher sends a 32 page manifesto to a local newspaper. Only thing is Dexter had a very specific purpose in doing what he did, as the police now go off into every direction imaginable. With Sgt. Doakes having set his sights on him yet again, Dexter realizes that he's going to have to play hardball to protect himself and so takes him head on. Rita comes to the end of her tether with her domineering mother. Lila sells a sculpture for a tidy sum and she and Dexter have a romantic dinner out. When Dexter tells her that he is going to a school event for Rita's son, she takes drastic action to get his attention. Meanwhile, Deb breaks up with Gabriel due to her changing feelings for Lundy. She then decides to pursue those feelings unknowing if Lundy feels anything in return.