Neil serves his love of gift-giving by forcing his disgruntled staff to work on “L.A. Christmas Eve” as they wait for his “perfect gift” to arrive.

Mikaela learns that her award for flattening the homelessness curve is based on a lie, and, with James and Arpi's help, grows determined to make a change for real. Neil realizes that his excitement about the I-Team has caused his original staff to act out like children, so he attempts to appease them.

Jayden hosts a Western-themed murder mystery party where Mikaela tries to figure out what's going on between her and James. Arpi and Neil clash over how to spend the city's newly acquired budget surplus.

Tensions rise as Titi B.’s petition to recall Mayor Bremer gains traction. Jayden panics over having to side with Arpi against Neil. Mikaela and James’ first kiss leaves something to be desired.