The Orville is witnessing the stellar disintegration of a planet which may take three days. Bortus asks to leave his shift early because he isn't feeling well and Mercer notes that he has been doing this a lot. Rather than go home, Bortus lies to his husband about working late and goes to the simulation deck and engages in a porn program. He returns home very late and refuses to have sex with Klyden who is hurt and frustrated.
Bortus' behavior continues until Klyden stabs him in the heart while he sleeps. Dr. Finn saves his life only to find out that this is a Moclan divorce ceremony. Bortus and Klyden meet with Mercer and commit to working on their relationship. Mercer sends them for couple's counseling with Dr. Finn. Bortus continues to visit his porn programs.
Isaac detects dysonium deposits in the planet and Mercer plans on sifting through the planet's remains for the ore after it is destroyed. Upon further investigation, Isaac realizes the dysonium is part of a subterranean civilization and then comes to the further conclusion that the civilization is still inhabited. They make contact and discover seventy-five surviving members of the Nyxian society. They plan on rescuing them in a shuttle, making multiple trips.
Bored with his current programs, Bortus approaches Lt. Unk for an illicit porn simulation program. While in the program, Klyden catches him and they go back to Dr. Finn. Bortus admits he hasn't moved on from the procedure that was performed on their child, Topa.
Isaac and Bortus pilot a shuttle to the planet but are only able to save thirty Nyxians. Bortus comes to the realization that he loves Klyden and Topa and needs his family.