Dolores' oldest son, Marcus, is depressed because he must repeat the ninth grade, but Cathy cheers him up.

Darren must attend an honorary banquet for winning an essay contest. Cathy teaches him the social graces, but he learns too well, inventing an impressive family background to make a good impression and belittling the memory of his father.

When Marcus wants to move out on his own, Dolores puts him in the garage.