Hester has joined the roster of amateur cooks who takes turns as chef for "Lucy's Kitchen" in Barnes, her specialty being classic French cuisine. But on her first night, no one shows up at the restaurant except William, who saves the day by pretending they are on a romantic rendezvous.

William is tiring of Hester's efforts at self-improvement. Meanwhile, Hester is furious at being rejected for a job as assistant in a boutique because she is too old, and disguises herself as a brainless twenty-soemthing to apply again.

William has been looking forward to relaxing on a fishing trip, and is dismayed when Hester and Nancy insist on accompanying him.

Complications ensue when one of William's clients becomes attracted to Hester.

Now that Emma is out on her own, William and Hester ponder selling the house and moving somewhere smaller.