Ep 4. Back in Business

In Desperate Housewives season 5 episode 4 titled "Back in Business," the ladies of Wisteria Lane attempt to pull themselves up by their bootstraps and get their lives back on track after the economic downturn hits their small town. They all have different ways of coping with their newfound financial struggles, but all are determined to make it work.

Lynette is desperate to find a job and bring in some income for her family after Tom's pizza business fails. She lands a job as a high-stakes poker dealer, but quickly realizes that she is in over her head when she becomes the target of a shady poker player. Meanwhile, Bree is also dealing with financial issues. Her catering business is struggling, and she is forced to take on a job at a fast-food restaurant to make ends meet. She is embarrassed about the job and tries to keep it a secret from her friends.

Susan is trying to rebuild her life after her divorce from Mike. She takes a job at a school to make ends meet and finds herself drawn to the school's principal, played by guest star Richard Burgi (who also played Susan's ex-husband on the show). However, she is hesitant to start a new relationship after her last one ended in disaster. Gabrielle, on the other hand, is living the high life once again thanks to Carlos' new job, but she soon realizes that money can't buy happiness. She misses her old life and decides to go back to work as a model.

As the ladies navigate their financial struggles, they also deal with some personal issues. Lynette is still struggling to accept Tom's new girlfriend, Jane, who is trying to bond with the kids. Bree is dealing with the fallout from her affair with Karl, and her attempts to make amends fall flat. Susan is trying to adjust to her new life as a single mom, while Gabrielle deals with feelings of guilt over Carlos' job and their newfound wealth.

The episode ends with a twist that sets up some drama for future episodes. One of the ladies receives a mysterious package that hints at a scandal from their past. We are left wondering who the package is for and what it contains.

Overall, "Back in Business" is an engaging episode that explores the theme of financial struggles in a relatable and realistic way. The characters are all at a crossroads in their lives and are forced to make some tough decisions. The episode also sets up some interesting storylines that will keep viewers tuning in.