Ep 13. Stop Me Before I Hug Again

Brian Finch is a man of many talents, thanks to the mysterious drug known as NZT, which allows him to access 100% of his brain's capacity. As a consultant for the FBI, he uses his enhanced abilities to solve complex cases and help his partner, Agent Rebecca Harris, catch dangerous criminals. However, in season 1 episode 13 of Limitless, titled "Stop Me Before I Hug Again," Brian's usual routine is disrupted when he becomes the target of a fanatical cult.

The episode begins with Brian attending a meeting of the "Path of the Divine," a group that claims to have achieved enlightenment through meditation and self-awareness. Brian is there to gather information for the FBI, but he's surprised when a woman named Piper Baird approaches him and seems to recognize him. Piper is a former member of the Path who left the group and now believes that NZT is the key to unlocking the full potential of the human mind. She's been stalking Brian and sees him as a kindred spirit.

At first, Brian is amused by Piper's enthusiasm and takes her on as an apprentice, teaching her how to use her newfound intelligence for creative purposes. However, he soon discovers that Piper has a dark side. She's been using NZT to manipulate people into doing her bidding and even committed a murder under its influence. She now sees Brian as a potential partner in crime and starts to become dangerously obsessed with him.

As the episode progresses, Brian finds himself caught in a web of lies and deceit. His loyalty to the FBI is called into question when Piper threatens to expose the agency's use of NZT unless he helps her pull off a heist. Brian's internal struggle mirrors the external battle between the FBI and the Path of the Divine, which have very different ideas about the nature of reality and consciousness.

While this all might sound very intense, "Stop Me Before I Hug Again" still manages to inject plenty of humor into the situation. Brian's quirky personality and witty one-liners are on full display, and his interactions with Piper are simultaneously awkward and hilarious. There are also some great moments between Brian and Rebecca, who is increasingly concerned about his safety and well-being. Their partnership is one of the highlights of the show, and this episode proves why.

Overall, "Stop Me Before I Hug Again" is a great example of what makes Limitless such an enjoyable series. It's a smart, funny, action-packed thrill ride that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Whether you've been following the show since the beginning or are just jumping in, this episode is not to be missed.