Set It Up (2018) Timeline Explained – Every Event in Order

Introducing Harper and Charlie

Harper Moore, an ambitious assistant, works diligently under her boss Kirsten Stevens, an editor at a sports journalism platform. Meanwhile, Charlie Young assists the high-strung venture capitalist Rick Otis, setting the stage for their eventual encounter amidst their demanding careers.

The Dinner Payment Incident

One evening, Harper finds herself in a predicament when she cannot pay for the dinner she ordered for Kirsten. Just then, Charlie, who forgot to order for Rick, steps in and pays for the meal, allowing Harper to take one dinner home and preventing her possible termination at work.

Finding Common Ground

The next day, Harper and Charlie have a heartfelt conversation about their challenging jobs and the demands of their bosses. As they discuss their frustrations and the toll their jobs take on their personal lives, they discover a mutual understanding and bond over their shared experiences.

The First Plan to Pair the Bosses

In a light moment of humor, Harper proposes a quirky idea: if Rick and Kirsten were dating, perhaps they would be less demanding toward their assistants. This leads to Charlie's determination to help implement this plan, especially after his own relationship with Suze begins to crumble.

The Elevator Stunt

With the assistance of the eccentric janitor Creepy Tim, Harper and Charlie attempt to stall an elevator to create a romantic moment for their bosses. However, their initial plan takes an unexpected turn when a delivery man jumps into the elevator, complicating their efforts.

Where

Elevator

The Baseball Game Kiss-Cam

Determined to bring Rick and Kirsten together, Harper and Charlie decide to employ the kiss-cam at a baseball game. After three failed attempts, they finally succeed, leading to a spontaneous kiss between the two, igniting a budding romance that grants both assistants some much-needed relief.

Where

Baseball stadium

Creative Relationship Management

With Rick and Kirsten's new relationship underway, Harper and Charlie become creative in keeping their bosses together. They arrange surprise dates and leave affectionate notes, hoping to maintain the spark in Rick and Kirsten's whirlwind romance.

Tension Brews

While Charlie faces increasing tension in his own relationship with Suze, he finds comfort in Harper’s company at Becca's engagement party. Their growing connection hints at deeper feelings between the two assistants amidst their chaotic work lives.

Where

Becca's engagement party

Engagement Announcement

Excitement fills the air as Rick and Kirsten return from vacation with news of their engagement. However, amidst the celebration, Charlie uncovers troubling details about Rick's true motivations, which puts a damper on the happy moment.

Uncovering Betrayal

Harper's world shifts when she overhears Rick discussing his manipulative intentions regarding Kirsten and his ex-wife, Kiki. This revelation leads Harper to confront Charlie, who shockingly admits he was aware of the situation, leaving Harper feeling betrayed.

Facing the Consequences

As the truth unfolds, Harper confesses her and Charlie's manipulations to Kirsten, resulting in her termination from her position. Struggling with feelings of guilt, she realizes the cost of their actions and the precarious nature of their workplace dynamics.

The Moment of Clarity

Confronted with his own emotional turmoil, Charlie finds the courage to end his relationship with Suze and rushes to the airport. In a bold move, he reveals Rick's deceitful intentions to Kirsten, helping her recognize the toxic nature of her engagement.

Where

Airport

A New Beginning for Harper

After a period of self-reflection and encouragement from Becca, Harper decides to pursue her passion for writing, turning down Kirsten's offer to return to her previous job. This pivotal decision marks a significant step in her personal and professional growth.

Reunion with Charlie

In a serendipitous encounter, Harper meets Charlie again, who is now temping and on a quest to discover his own path. Sharing their experiences, they realize their feelings for one another and share a heartfelt kiss, signaling the start of a new chapter.

Creepy Tim's Observation

In a humorous mid-credits scene, the peculiar janitor Creepy Tim is shown watching Harper and Charlie through security cameras, highlighting the quirky charm of their romantic journey. His watchful eye adds a touch of comedy to the otherwise tumultuous events.