How I Met Your Mother (2005)

S1E19 Mary the Paralegal

Robin is up for an award for her news report, and everyone is expected to bring a date to the ceremony. Barney suggests that Ted take Mary as his date. Initially, Ted resists the idea, wanting to avoid looking desperate in front of Robin. However, when Robin arrives with a date of her own, Ted reconsiders. As Robin bombards Mary with questions, Ted finds himself genuinely drawn to her, even though her job doesn't align with his initial preferences.