Ep 3. Mind Games

Burn Notice season 5 episode 3, titled "Mind Games," follows the story of Michael Westen, a former spy who has been burned and blacklisted by the U.S. government. In this episode, he teams up with his ex-girlfriend and fellow spy, Samantha, to track down a former enemy who has resurfaced with a dangerous plan.

The episode opens with Michael and Samantha meeting in a crowded bar in Miami. The two have a complicated history - they used to be lovers, but their relationship ended on a bitter note when Samantha betrayed Michael during a mission. Now, Samantha has come to Michael for help. She has intercepted a message from a former enemy, Nigel Winthrop, who has apparently resurfaced with a new scheme.

Michael is initially reluctant to get involved, but Samantha tells him that Winthrop is planning to steal a missile guidance system from a government convoy. She offers Michael a job to help disable the system and stop Winthrop's group from carrying out their attack. Michael agrees to help, but he has reservations.

Michael and Samantha plan to infiltrate Winthrop's group by posing as smugglers looking to buy stolen goods. They set up a meeting with a member of Winthrop's crew, but things quickly go awry when they discover that the man they are meeting with has been killed. Michael realizes that Winthrop is onto them and that they need to change their approach.

In an effort to get inside information on Winthrop's location and plans, Michael turns to his old friend Barry, a money launderer who has connections to the criminal underworld. Using his spy skills and some clever tricks, Michael convinces Barry to introduce him to a member of Winthrop's group.

Michael and the group member, Kevin, begin to work together on a plan to steal the missile guidance system from the government convoy. However, as the day of the operation draws closer, Michael begins to suspect that Kevin is not being entirely truthful with him.

Meanwhile, Michael's mother, Madeline, is dealing with her own troubles. She has been offered a new job as a hostess at a charity event, but she is worried about what her friends will think of her. Michael tries to help Madeline by teaching her how to interact with the other guests and giving her a confidence boost.

As the episode builds to its climax, Michael and Samantha discover that Winthrop has been using Kevin as a pawn in his plan. They race against time to stop the missile guidance system from falling into Winthrop's hands and prevent a potentially catastrophic attack.

Overall, Burn Notice season 5 episode 3 is a thrilling installment in the series that showcases the show's signature blend of action, suspense, and humor. With its intricate plot, compelling characters, and high-stakes drama, "Mind Games" is a must-watch for fans of the show and newcomers alike.