Picking up approximately three years after the Season Six finale, Jess and Nick return from a European book tour for "The Pepperwood Chronicles." Schmidt and Cece celebrate their daughter, Ruth's, birthday with a party, where Jess runs into her ex, Russell. Meanwhile, Winston and Aly try to pick a pregnancy photo.

Nervous about Ruth's interview at a prestigious pre-school, Schmidt recruits Jess to help her prepare. Meanwhile, Nick procrastinates writing, and Winston prepares to confront his fear of testifying in court.