Maddie has a conversation with Kris during their catch-up, discussing the creative funk in generating fresh ideas for new books.
Kris explains Penny's strategy of focusing on in-house authors to develop book ideas, such as turning author Carmen Loremo's trip to Italy into a bestseller.
Maddie takes note of this strategy wondering which of their writers can produce what kind of content.
The conversation reveals the lack of diversity among their writers, most of whom produce conventional cuisine books.
Kris considers Maddie's book idea of "Cooking Combos" and praises her for bringing new ideas to the team.
Maddie later reflects on how the roster of authors could diversify their content and discovers an author's wife, Afra, who could inspire authentic foreign cuisine books.
Maddie's flatmate Jo proposes a trip to Florence, Italy, where they could stay for free due to Jo's connection but would have to pay for flights.
Despite financial concerns and the timing aligning with her dad's birthday, Maddie tentatively agrees to the trip.
Maddie exchanges playful text messages with Ben, who is excited about making pasta with his new pasta machine.
Even though she looks forward to seeing Ben, Maddie is concerned about having enough time to wash her hair, which has a lengthy and specific process.
While in the middle of her hair-care routine, Jo innocently but insensitively touches Maddie's hair, resulting in a learning moment about personal boundaries and cultural sensitivity taught by their flatmate Cam.
Feeling the pressure, Maddie ultimately decides to blow-dry her hair to speed up the process.