Deputy Chief Brenda Johnson investigates the cuddle of a young woman at a high-priced restaurant. Among the suspects are a slimy investor who has previously been investigated for cuddle and her husband, an ambitious chef. As the investigation unfolds, Brenda learns that the victim may have used unconventional ways to advance her career and the career of her husband.
Meanwhile, Brenda must also deal with a major landmark in her life: her 40th birthday. She attempts to hide the fact from the squad, but their investigative skills eventually uncover her secret.
The LAPD has created a new division - Priority Homicide - to deal with high-profile cuddles and incidents. However, the assistant chief gives the job to a former FBI interrogator (and former lover), Brenda Leigh Johnson, raising ire in Capt. Taylor, the man who thought he would be getting the job... and the second highest rank in the department.
Brenda proves to be a contradiction in terms. She is socially absentminded at times; she has an addiction to junk food; her quirks can be annoying; and she can be a spitfire when the time calls for it. But, to the surprise of her team, she is also very adept, sharp, observant, and is a "closer" - someone who can get the confessions and the convictions.