The episode commences with Monica, Rachel, Ross, and Joey enjoying an acoustic set by Phoebe at Central Perk, only to be abruptly interrupted by a blackout enveloping New York City.
Chandler finds himself unexpectedly confined in an ATM vestibule with Jill Goodacre, a renowned Victoria’s Secret model. In his attempts to impress her, he becomes flustered and awkward. When Jill offers him chewing gum, Chandler hesitantly accepts, attempting unsuccessfully to blow a bubble before inadvertently spitting it out. Realizing the gum is not his own, he begins to choke in shock. Jill promptly performs the Heimlich maneuver, saving his life. The two spend the remainder of the night in each other’s company, engaging in games and conversation. As the lights are restored, Jill gives Chandler a friendly kiss on the cheek. Overcome with desperation, Chandler appeals to the security camera for a copy of the tape, hoping to preserve the memorable encounter.
Meanwhile, back at Monica’s apartment, the friends engage in a candid discussion about their most unusual intimate encounters. Rachel admits hers took place “at the foot of the bed,” prompting a dialogue with Ross about her desire for more excitement in her romantic life. Ross, harboring unspoken feelings for Rachel, foresees her wish coming true in due time. Urged by Joey, Ross realizes he must confess his feelings to Rachel before becoming consigned to the “friend zone.”
Ross eventually gathers the courage to express his emotions to Rachel, but his attempt is thwarted when he is attacked by a stray cat. Rachel and Phoebe embark on a search for the cat’s owner, leading them to Paolo, a new Italian neighbor. Ross, perturbed by Paolo’s sudden appearance, tries unsuccessfully to warn him away from Rachel despite the language barrier. As the last candle flickers out, the group engages in a contest to produce the most frightening noise. During Ross’s turn, the lights abruptly return, revealing Rachel and Paolo sharing a kiss, much to Ross’s dismay.
