Still riddled with guilt after a shooting, seasoned police officer Nick Barron returns to Station 19 following temporary leave. He is partnered with Ben Chartier, a transfer from a small, rural police force. Their relationship starts off on a bad note after a split-second decision initiates an internal investigation.

While Nick is haunted by memories of his former partner, Ben’s girlfriend surprises him with a visit and leaves him on edge after being evasive about their future. Tempers simmer when the officers respond to a vandalism call that spirals out of control.

The first of the month is “Welfare Day,” which forces Ben and Nick to confront an array of crimes and contentious citizens. Just when they think their hellish shift is over, the partners must break up a volatile domestic disturbance.

Ben feels more alone than ever when Catherine delays her move to Montreal. Then he questions Tyler’s abilities when the officer botches an arrest of a gang of rapists, nearly costing Nick his life. Later, Nick brings Harvey to Sergeant Houle’s BBQ and starts a fight with a superior.

Ben gets some time off and heads home, where Catherine urges him to reconcile with his family. With Ben gone, Nick has to partner with his nemesis, J.M., and the two bicker endlessly. On top of that, Nick worries about finding long-term care for Harvey.

Ben and Nick’s cover-up comes back to haunt them when they break up a confrontation between rival gangs in a park. Tensions between the two are alleviated when they care for two abandoned children, and Ben becomes infatuated with social worker Amelie.