June Hayward introduces Athena Liu as a phenomenally successful, aloof literary star and describes their convenience-based friendship dating back to Yale. June contrasts her own stalled career and indifferent editor with Athena’s acclaim, laying bare her jealousy as they celebrate Athena’s Netflix deal at a Georgetown rooftop bar.

After drinks, Athena invites June to her Dupont Circle apartment. June is struck by the wealth and the dedicated writing office, where Athena’s vintage typewriter holds a freshly finished manuscript—her long-teased World War I project. Athena nervously allows June to skim pages, which are dazzling, but June withholds praise.

The mood loosens as the two bond unexpectedly over gossip and personal stories. Past midnight, they make pandan pancakes and turn it into an eating contest. Suddenly, Athena begins choking. June attempts the Heimlich repeatedly, then calls 911 but struggles to provide the exact address before recalling the building and unit.

Athena collapses; the 911 dispatcher stays on the line as EMTs arrive, but Athena is unresponsive. EMTs document the death and place Athena in a body bag. June, dazed, gives her statement while police are present, fearing irrationally she’ll be blamed despite the evident accident.

A police officer drives June home at dawn. Exhausted and sedated, June falls asleep, while Athena’s completed manuscript—taken during the visit—sits in June’s bag, foreshadowing a profound moral dilemma.