As the curtain rises on this installment of "Mid-Century Modern," Jerry Frank (played by Matt Bomer) is over the moon to discover that Donny Osmond is set to perform in the glittering enclave of Palm Springs. Jerry humorously proclaims that his sexual orientation can be traced back to the enigmatic charm of Donny Osmond. Recalling a childhood memory, he shares how, upon returning from school, he found his mother had bisected his beloved poster, leaving only half of Donny's image. Jerry reveals to Bunny (Nathan Lane) and Arthur (Nathan Lee Graham) that he rescued the discarded half from the trash, hiding it beneath his mattress as a cherished secret. Enthusiastically, Jerry extends invitations for them to accompany him in securing tickets to the concert. Initially, no one bites until Bunny learns of the adjacent casino's allure.
Arthur confides in Sybil (Linda Lavin), explaining his reluctance to attend, while she mistakes his hesitation for financial woes. Sybil, ever the mediator, attempts to persuade Arthur into seeking employment, highlighting the profitable connections The Bunny Hutch shares with Carlisles & Co. She reveals that she has already arranged an interview for Arthur with Tevin (Jesse Tyler Ferguson), set for noon. Arthur argues that his vast experience and influence in the fashion world necessitate a role befitting his talent. Sybil gently reminds him that no job is beneath him and playfully accuses him of being a "re-filler," having discovered his habit of substituting Jergens for the premium La Mer cream in his bottle.
Jerry shares his affection for Donny Osmond with Marilou (Jamie Moyer), who teases him about the setlist, hinting at an opening with "Puppy Love" and a closing with "One Bad Apple." Bunny encourages Jerry to splurge on something lavish, inspired by his own gambling success. Jerry introduces Bunny to Marilou and Kyung-Suk (Esther Moon), amidst the casino's bustling ambiance.
Meanwhile, Arthur meets with Tevin, who initially praises his impressive CV before noting its abrupt conclusion. Arthur emphasizes his extensive years in the fashion industry, but Tevin's nose catches a whiff of Jergens. As Bunny's fortune begins to turn sour, he gripes about Lester (Marlon Daniel) not dealing him the cards he desired. The pit boss, Sal D’Amico (Bruno Amato), steps in to investigate. Bunny gripes about being "tapped" and pleads for his lost wager back, inquiring about surveillance cameras.
Sal steps away to verify, and Jerry approaches Bunny with disappointing news: the tickets are sold out. However, standing room tickets will soon be available. Bunny shares his gambling escapade just as Jerry learns of a sing-along segment, prompting his swift exit. Sal returns, informing Bunny that the video evidence is inconclusive but suggesting a way to recoup his losses—by introducing Jerry to him as a potential "plus-one." Bunny scolds Sal before excusing himself momentarily.
Elsewhere, Arthur explains to Tevin the rationale behind presenting an alternative option to the client. Tevin grumbles that the substitute is far less costly, summoning Liz (Vanessa Bayer) to model an awkward outfit. Liz protests that she can barely breathe, to which Tevin responds that breathlessness is precisely the point. He jokes about a bonnet, only to realize he has sold the last one.
In this vivid retelling, the characters' stories intertwine amidst the glamor and intrigue of Palm Springs, painting a vivid portrait of ambition, humor, and unexpected twists.
Tevin assures Arthur that he'll explore every possible option. In a private moment, Tevin gently reminds Arthur of his new role in sales, where commissions drive his success. At the bustling casino, Bunny stumbles upon Jerry, who proudly displays a Donny Osmond T-shirt. Bunny engages Jerry in chatter, bringing up their eerie encounter with Sal, whom Jerry pictures as a sinister Mr. Clean come to life. Jerry's spirits dampen when he learns that tickets for Donny Osmond's shows are entirely sold out, lamenting that this bit of joy was much-needed amid recent upheavals. Bunny hesitates to reveal more about Sal, and Marilou kindly invites Jerry to join them for a feast at the buffet.
Returning to Sal, Bunny informs him that their arrangement is off. Meanwhile, Sybil discovers Arthur still awake and deep in thought in the kitchen. Arthur pours out his frustrations, calling his day's endeavors deceptive and dishonest. He retires to bed, anticipating a tutorial on microwave mastery the following day. Bunny joins Sybil in the kitchen, where Sybil frets over whether she's irrevocably broken Arthur.
The next morning, Sal's unexpected appearance startles Bunny. Given that Sal slept with Jerry, Bunny demands a refund. Sal argues that he was merely a bystander in the transaction. Jerry, catching wind of their dispute, inquiries if they're discussing him. Bunny confirms, and Jerry urges Bunny to elaborate, expressing his distaste for confusion. Jerry sides with Bunny, believing Sal owes him something. Sal insists that the casino cannot issue refunds, but Jerry persists, suggesting a compromise: two tickets to the Donny Osmond show that night. Bunny is dissatisfied, yet Jerry views it as a victory for all.
Tevin informs Arthur of a potential big-spender ready to drop $20,000 on a fresh look. To everyone's surprise, it's Sybil. Emerging from the dressing room, she asks Arthur if the dress makes him queasy. Tevin learns that Sybil was not a genuine customer, wasting his precious time. When he tells her to leave, Arthur intervenes, chiding Tevin for his harsh tone. Tevin reveals he only hired Arthur out of pity, but Arthur rejects such sentiments, insisting on earning his place. Arthur gently asks Sybil to remove the dress and summons Liz, encouraging her to shed the frivolous attire, believing her natural beauty is all she needs to radiate. Liz wonders about Arthur's future workplace, but Tevin's interest in firing him wanes. Arthur seizes the moment, asserting control and instructing Tevin to bring out the sales rack.
Later, Sybil presents Arthur with a gift, celebrating his title as the day's top salesman. He has a token for her too – both receive a tiny bottle of La Mer. Jerry and Bunny return from the Osmond concert, Bunny relishing the thrill of reclaiming his money. Donny tossed his damp headband into the audience, and Bunny, quick-witted, caught it and sold it to an enthusiastic fan. Jerry holds the precious headband now.
