At the Herald, a left-leaning broadsheet struggling to adapt to the age of digital news, deputy news editor Holly Evans pursues a lead over the death of a young woman following a hit-and-run by a police car. At the Post, Oxford graduate Ed Washburn is given his first 'death knock', interviewing the parents of Shawn Kingsley, a footballer who has committed suicide.

Holly helps Leona investigate a lead at a hospital. Ed struggles with his conscience after a night working on the Post's showbiz desk.

When The Herald uncovers a sex scandal, Holly makes a powerful enemy. Ed travels to Warwick to interview Geoff Newman, a man the media suspect of being involved in a local boy’s murder. Duncan proposes a deal that could make waves in the political world.

Amina feels defeated in the immediate wake of the Joshua West scandal. Holly ignores Amina's request to write a front-page apology. Duncan is shocked to learn that The Post has been banned from the daily press conference at Downing Street. Leona is approached by a surprising source who has a particular interest in James. Peter's support proves valuable to Amina as she suffers a personal crisis.

Holly is accused of losing her professional integrity when she mishandles a source. Leona finds an opportunity to impress her colleagues. Peter and Amina clear the way to make a big announcement about the future of The Herald. Ed's pride in his soaring professional achievements is marred by the arrival of a surprise new colleague.