Ep 8. Coral Gables

In the episode "Coral Gables" of Suits season 8, the storyline revolves around Harvey and Alex's race to close a deadline for a client while Samantha seeks closure of her own.

Harvey (Gabriel Macht) and Alex (Dulé Hill) are racing against the clock to complete a merger for a client that a competing law firm is also trying to close. The two partners have different ideas about how to win the deal, with Harvey wanting to play it safe, while Alex wants to take a risk. Meanwhile, Donna (Sarah Rafferty) and Louis (Rick Hoffman) have their own hands full as they work to put out a fire at the firm.

Amidst the chaos and tensions of the merger, Samantha Wheeler (Katherine Heigl) is dealing with her own personal issues. She travels to Coral Gables, Florida, the place where her parents were killed in a car crash when she was a child. Samantha meets with a man whom she believed was responsible for her parents' death, and tries to find a sense of closure. This subplot brings an emotional depth to the episode and sheds light on Samantha's backstory.

As the merger deadline approaches, Harvey and Alex must work together to make a final push to come out on top. Meanwhile, back at the firm, Louis and Donna are dealing with their own challenges as they manage a crisis that threatens to jeopardize the merger.

The episode is a great example of how the show juggles multiple plotlines while keeping the tension and drama high. The main story involving the merger is fast-paced and keeps the audience engaged, with Harvey and Alex's differing approaches to the situation creating some tension. At the same time, Samantha's subplot enriches her character and adds a layer of emotion and tragedy to the show. The episode is also notable for showcasing the excellent chemistry between the ensemble cast members, with bantering and witty exchanges adding some levity to the serious tone.

Overall, "Coral Gables" is a thrilling and emotionally resonant episode of Suits that balances multiple plotlines and character arcs with ease. It is a testament to the show's ability to evolve and maintain its quality in its later seasons.