The episode begins with the announcement of the event celebrating the 40th anniversary of Sunpick Ltd. and a competition for new employees. The prize for the most promising newcomer is a trip to a luxury resort in Okinawa. Shinozaki is motivated to win, especially after Hayakawa showcases her new swimsuit for the occasion. His manager, who won the MVP award as a newcomer back in the day, supports him, and Hayakawa and Katase also offer their assistance.

Shinozaki's colleague Yamagishi is not interested in the competition. He introduces Shinozaki to Kurusu Akari from Development Group 1, who is considered a rising star and the favorite to win the newcomer competition. Kurusu's boss, Takatsukasa Shinobu, reveals that if Kurusu wins, he will ask Shinozaki's manager to transfer to his group. Shinozaki vows to win the competition to prevent this from happening.

The episode then shifts to a product test at Aozora Preschool, where Shinozaki, Hayakawa, and Katase interact with children to observe how they play with the company's toys. Eventually, Shinozaki and Katase play house with two of the children, Marin and Tomo. In the game, Shinozaki is the "dad," and Katase initially plays the "mom" but is later turned into a "kitten" at the children's request. The situation leads to some awkward yet endearing moments between Shinozaki and Katase.

Both Shinozaki and Katase observe how the other interacts with the children and find each other's behavior "parent-like." They also help Marin and Tomo reconcile after a minor argument and advise Tomo to be kind to the girl he likes.

As they leave the preschool, Shinozaki feels inspired for his competition proposal. Hayakawa and Katase are optimistic about his chances. Katase catches herself reflecting on Shinozaki's kindness and wonders if his nice behavior toward her might mean something more.