Rob and Charis finally meet Rob's Dad and his "new" family. Phil and Grace's life has things in common with the family home Rob remembers, but also some striking differences. Rob's brother Bevan finds himself in hospital, and the diagnosis is a shock to the family.

Rob has mixed feelings about the jobs he has had since leaving university,including working on a country newspaper and helping his brothers to renovate houses. When Charis meets Rob's flatmates, her independence and individuality are highlighted by their shallowness and superficiality.

Rob and his new girlfriend Charis meet each other's parents over dinner, a landmark in their relationship. Doris and Hector, the owners of the bookstore where Charis works, share their thoughts on parenthood.

Twelve years after his father left the family, Rob reaches out to contact him for the first time. After an awkward phone conversation, they agree to meet.