Carrot and Stick

“I think maybe I’ll come, too.” And with that, Kim moves out of the shadows. She welcomes herself into the Kettlemans’ portable with a nonchalant swagger reminiscent of Lalo Salamanca. After it all goes precisely according to planThe plotting of their leverage against the Kettlemans is so neat here because of course they’re at it again., she leans against the car, basking in her victory. With her black suit jacket and dark lipstick, it struck me that this is the first time Kim has looked the part of the villain.

As Kim’s performance unfolds, we gradually understand why she wanted to come. Yes, she was right that the carrot wouldn’t workIt’s interesting that for all of Jimmy’s experience in deceiving others, he has such blind spots in how people act. He severely underestimates Betsy Kettleman’s hatred of him. It’s not money that motivates her, but her desire to protect her family., but what matters is seeing the Kettlemans get their comeuppance. The play is too good. She’s able to justify blackmail because she’s fighting on behalf of the innocent victims of their scheme.

At the end, it’s Jimmy who feels the tug of his conscience. Just like when he turned the elders against Mrs. Landry, he doesn’t consider the consequences of his actions, that he might be hurting others in the pursuit of his goals. After he sees what they’ve inflicted upon the Kettlemans, he can’t help but give them the money, not as a bribe, but out of pity. When Kim’s all-in, that’s not part of the equation. She’s made her judgments in advance, and now she’s doling out justice.

The Kettlemans’ encounter with “prepubescent intern” Erin was a pleasant surprise, bringing together colorful side characters from what feel like entirely different worlds. It had me wondering what other exciting crossovers from Jimmy’s adventures we may never get to see. Chuck and the aloof film student? The skateboarding twins and Mrs. Nguyen from the nail salon?

My respect for Nacho grew this episode, in particular when he feigned nervousness over the phone to deduce that it’s Gus who’s having him observed.

I’m not certain that I understand why Gus had Mike plant the statement with the motel’s phone number in Nacho’s safe. I assume Gus intended Nacho to be caught, since Juan Bolsa verified the number, after which the Salamanca twins appeared at his doorstep. That doesn’t add up, though, as Nacho would implicate Gus in the attack on the Lalo’s compoundMaybe things change if we suppose that Gus assumed Nacho would instead be hunted down and killed.. Especially now that Gus believes Lalo is alive – but even before – why is he not dead set on getting Nacho out, even if only so that he can personally ensure his silence?