24-year-old Zara, portrayed by Joey King, finds herself increasingly undervalued in her role as the personal assistant to the egotistical Hollywood star Chris Cole, played by Zac Efron. Chris has a peculiar habit of gifting diamond earrings to his romantic interests before he breaks up with them, and he often makes Zara clean up the aftermath of his relationships. Zara initially believed she was being groomed to take on a larger role in Chris's career, but tensions rise when Chris expresses anger over her tardiness one morning. This prompts Zara to confide in her friend Stella, a writer, about her frustrations and aspirations surrounding Chris's movie franchise, Icarus Rush.
After a confrontation where Zara resigns, asserting her commitment to Chris’s success over the Hollywood agents, Chris comes knocking at her door, this time with an offer for an associate producer role. Meanwhile, we meet Brooke Harwood, played by Nicole Kidman, a writer aiming to revive her career after spending years raising her daughter. An unexpected encounter with Chris at her home ignites a chemistry between them, leading to deep conversations and a passionate kiss—an event that is soon interrupted by Zara's shocking discovery.
Zara returns home, only to faint upon finding her mother and her boss together. After a doctor’s visit, Zara insists that Chris keep his distance from Brooke. However, the pair's chemistry proves irresistible, prompting Chris to invite Brooke for what becomes a romantic dinner. Impressed by Chris's knowledge of her work, Brooke decides to embrace this connection. As their relationship unfolds, Zara uncovers that Brooke has been secretly involved with Chris—an unsettling revelation for Zara, who struggles to accept her mother's newfound happiness.
The complications deepen as Zara openly confronts Brooke about her relationship with Chris, expressing disbelief that it could last. Despite her concerns that Chris might hurt Brooke, Leila, Brooke's mother-in-law, encourages Zara to consider her mother's happiness. The narrative weaves through moments of familial love and struggle, culminating in a Christmas dinner where Chris shares his sentiment about the importance of family—something he has long missed.
As time passes, Zara’s reluctance to accept Chris’s intentions is tested further when she discovers the same diamond earrings he gives to his girlfriends. A confrontation ensues, casting doubt in Brooke’s mind about Chris's real intentions. Amidst personal reflection, Zara comes to terms with her own mistakes, realizing her priorities regarding her friendships.
In the end, a year later brings triumphs for both Brooke and Zara: Brooke publishes a new book while Zara ascends to a producer role. The relationship between Chris and Brooke flourishes, albeit with Zara blissfully unaware of the romantic details. All characters experience growth, underscoring the importance of love, acceptance, and the complexities of familial bonds.
