From Wilder’s point of view, he receives a text from his brother Mika asking him to be a fake husband for Scottie in a therapy session the next morning. Bored and eager to test his improv class skills, Wilder readily agrees after a quick exchange, studies Scottie’s contact photo, and jots character notes while he relaxes at home.

The next morning, Wilder meets his best friend and accountant, Derek Hanson, at a café. Derek warns Wilder that pretending to be married could be risky, especially given Wilder’s financial stakes as a public investor, and questions the logic of attending marriage counseling with a stranger. Wilder dismisses the concern, citing boredom, a desire for new experiences, and confidence in his improvisation. He leaves for the appointment despite Derek’s objections.

Wilder heads to the agreed meeting point outside Anthropologie on Third Avenue, where he spots a polished, nervous Scottie. Their initial exchange is tense: Scottie judges Wilder’s casual appearance against what she imagined for someone in his position, and Wilder counters with humor and a laid-back attitude. He mentions enjoying the “angle” and practicing improv, which frustrates Scottie, who emphasizes the high stakes for her job and asks him not to take pleasure in her predicament.

Pressed for time, Scottie outlines a quick cover story: they have been married for five years, met at a bar, had a whirlwind romance, married young, and now want different things. She suggests the conflict is that Scottie wants children and Wilder does not. Wilder agrees to adopt that stance as a character, even though he personally likes the idea of kids.

When Wilder asks for a plausible job, Scottie first suggests pharmaceuticals, but Wilder rejects it due to lack of knowledge. He proposes something he understands—green roofs—and briefly explains their environmental benefits. Scottie accepts the adjustment and reiterates that she wants to get through the hour and end the charade.

Despite their clashing tones—Wilder’s playful improviser versus Scottie’s tense pragmatist—they agree on the essentials and walk together toward the counseling session, with Wilder eager for the challenge and Scottie intent on damage control.