Season 1 Episode 7 - Play The Man

Mike finds himself in a mock trial against Kyle Durant, one of Louis' protégés, while Harvey faces off against his old adversary Dana Scott. Both Mike and Louis confront legal challenges that could potentially be resolved through compromise, but their opponents attempt to exploit the situation. Mike's predicament revolves around a mock trial for associates, where Jessica acts as the presiding judge, a tradition within the firm.

The scene begins with Mike nearly colliding with Rachel while riding his bike. She reassures him that she won't expose his cheating and advises him not to continue the charade. Upon entering the office, they find it deserted, and Rachel comments on Mike's forgetfulness. Meanwhile, Harvey meets with his client, Jones, and informs him about the potential merger with Vega. Mike and Rachel discover that a Mock Trial is taking place, organized by Louis, who assigns Mike and Kyle as opponents. 

Louis reveals that Kyle has been the Mock Trial champion for several consecutive years. Later, Harvey gives Mike a task and advises him on the Mock Trial, suggesting that Mike create a winning scenario. Mike approaches Kyle and proposes a settlement instead of going to trial, to which Kyle agrees. They shake hands.

Harvey meets with Jones and Vega to discuss the deal, but Harvey insists on waiting for his lawyer, Dana Scott. Harvey and Dana engage in a heated argument, which leads to them kissing and engaging in sexual activity. Meanwhile, the Mock Trial commences, and Mike announces his intention to settle. 

However, Kyle surprises him by declaring that they are ready to proceed. Mike realizes he has been blindsided. Harvey and Dana return to their paperwork, discussing their respective clients. Dana refuses to reveal private books until a signed deal is in place. Mike accuses Kyle of unfair play, and Kyle warns him to watch his back. They resume the trial, and Mike argues a case of Defamation of Character, with Jessica's approval, setting a deadline for Friday to prepare their cases.

Harvey encounters Donna, who inquires if he came out on top. He questions why she didn't disclose that Dana was the opposing lawyer, to which she explains it was to prevent him from getting performance anxiety. Harvey assures her that he still has what it takes, and they gain access to their opponents' books. In Harvey's office, Mike expresses his dissatisfaction with Harvey's advice. 

Harvey explains that the real world doesn't always go according to plan and that the Mock Trial is meant to test Mike's abilities as a lawyer. Mike approaches Donna, who pretends to cry, as part of a plan to make her a witness. She tells Mike to seek help from someone who will support him unconditionally. Mike turns to Jenny, who reacts surprisingly positively to his confession of living a lie. He trusts her and they share a kiss before becoming intimate.

Back at Harvey's, he deduces from the encounter that he has been outsmarted. He confronts Dana, accusing her of hiding something during the negotiations. She denies it and leaves. At the firm, Mike asserts that Vega intends to take over rather than merge. Harvey proposes a plan to showcase Jones' undesirable hotels by putting them on the market. 

The next day, Jenny arrives at the office and encounters Kyle, who taunts Mike. Mike refuses to make another deal with him. Harvey and Louis make a bet, and Harvey checks on Mike's well-being. Rachel and Jenny have a conversation. Harvey advises Mike to exploit Kyle's arrogance. Mike notices Rachel talking to Jenny and feels uneasy. During the Mock Trial, Donna exaggerates her role and winks at Mike. Kyle attempts to object but is overruled. Jenny takes the stand, and they make progress, but Kyle shuts it down.

Harvey intercepts Dana before she leaves and acknowledges her trickery, expressing his admiration. Harvey reveals that three of Jones' properties are for sale, determined to do whatever it takes to stop the merger. He suggests bringing the clients together to reconsider the original deal. In the Mock Trial, Rachel takes the stand, and Mike informs Donna that she will portray the character of a woman. 

He confronts Rachel about her reluctance to tell the truth and questions her ability to handle the situation. Rachel emotionally defends herself, declaring that she is capable. Mike approaches Kyle and pleads for a settlement, but Kyle wants to test Rachel's resilience. Mike decides not to proceed, allowing Kyle to win the Mock Trial. Jessica calls Mike aside and criticizes him for his naivety and softness, traits not valued at Pearson Hardman.

Harvey and Dana meet with Jones and Vega, aiming for a mutually satisfying outcome. Dana tries to imply that Harvey is merely seeking more billable hours, but Vega wants to hear what Harvey has to say. Harvey emphasizes the importance of both companies winning, and the men agree to revert to the original merger agreement. Mike visits Harvey's office and asks what he is celebrating. 

Harvey acknowledges his concerns about hurting his girlfriend but asserts that Mike lacks the necessary qualities. Mike argues that he is striving to be a good person too. Harvey states that he calls it as he sees it. Harvey meets Dana at a bar, where she reveals she has been fired from Vega and is getting married. She encourages Harvey not to feel sorry for his victory. Meanwhile, Mike approaches Rachel, who thanks him for not attacking her. She apologizes for her mistreatment of him, expecting more because she sees his potential.