Maddie notices samples of a book titled "Love Stories from the Middle East" with her company's name and a note to get approval from Kris.
Intrigued by the "& Co" replacing her "et al." suggestion, Maddie seeks out Penny to discuss her desire for more responsibility.
Maddie expresses to Penny that she contributed to several ideas, such as the author Afra's book changes, but feels her role is unacknowledged.
Penny reminds Maddie of the support the company provides to bring her ideas to life and questions what Maddie is seeking.
Maddie declares her wish to learn and be more involved, specifically asking to join Creative meetings.
Penny initially resists but then acknowledges Maddie's talents and admits that Maddie should be considered an asset.
After Maddie inquires about Penny's well-being, she gets invited to join Creative meetings but is reminded to complete her administrative tasks.
Maddie participates in a meeting with a popular illustrator, Charlotte, and her agent, who happens to be Sam, someone Maddie knows.
Penny discusses the company's fair payment practices for illustrators of color and gauges Maddie's comfort in attending the meeting as one of the few people of color present.
Maddie takes notice of Sam's attractiveness and the attention he receives in the meeting, especially while speaking.
After the meeting, Sam asks Maddie to show him out and inquires if she was able to speak with her boss about her role, referencing their previous conversation.
Sam invites Maddie to dinner, hinting at a date, and they discuss the potential awkwardness given Sam's history with Jo.
Maddie contemplates whether Sam's prior involvement with Jo should deter her from dating him but remains undecided.
Sam leaves his phone number with Maddie, placing the decision to contact him in her hands, and also hints at possible collaboration if Maddie's employer becomes his publisher.
Maddie defends her company's integrity and pitching style to Sam and subtly promotes her potential involvement in his book project as an asset.