Despite the disapproval from the rest of the family and his own hesitations, Eric invites Mary's ex-boyfriend Robbie Palmer to stay with them for a night after learning that he's homeless. Matt also shows up unexpectedly after being kicked out of his apartment by John, who needs quality time with his girlfriend. Meanwhile, Mary calls home again and hears Robbie's voice on the other end, and assumes he's dating Lucy now. Also, John proposes to his girlfriend Priscilla in front of Matt.

Robbie is threatened with eviction by Eric for apparently keeping secrets about Mary. The home buzzes with rumors and secret talk, but in the end it's all just an elaborate surprise party for Eric's birthday. Johhny dropped his baby at the Camden's door after Frankie enraged him and left completely. Mike trusts Lucy enough to mind his ma one evening, but she confides in Lucy she wants Mike to sell the house, put her in a home and resume his life.