Maddie Wright receives a rejection email from Carrow Books, saying her draft will not be accepted for their mentorship program.
While in the office, Maddie overhears a conversation between her colleagues, Penny and Kris, discussing her contributions and involvement with Love Stories publication.
She learns that it was Penny, not Kris, who has been failing to acknowledge her ideas as her own, possibly to prevent promoting her and having to hire a replacement.
Contemplating on whether to confront Penny, Maddie decides not to as she is emotionally drained from the recent death of her father.
Maddie receives a text from Emma, asking for help in organizing a surprise birthday party for Jo, which she agrees to as a way to make amends for their strained relationship.
Maddie, along with her friend Cam, spend the next day picking up party supplies and setting up for the surprise.
During the party, an animated discussion about a popular book takes place, with various guests sharing their opinions on the writing and its depiction of love.
Sam, Jo's ex, impresses Maddie with his profound take on the book's representation of love, making her consider her own experiences and feelings.
The party leads Maddie to interact with Jo and her friends, making her reflect on her relationships and how others perceive her.
Maddie steps away from the party to be alone on the steps outside and encounters Sam, who joins her for a conversation about personal struggles and their thoughts on love and relationships.
Sam and Maddie discuss issues of race in relationships, personal growth, and the importance of standing up for oneself in the workplace.
Maddie decides she will confront her boss the following day about her ideas being used without acknowledgment.
As Sam leaves the party, he offers Maddie encouragement for her decision to confront her boss.