The Bunkers are eagerly looking forward to the return of the Stivics to celebrate Christmas. However, they are forced to make a last minute change of plans when Edith receives a call from Gloria explaining they won't be able to travel due to Mike's back going out.

Unable to keep up appearances any longer, Gloria finally tells Edith in the middle of the night that she and Mike have separated because she feels neglected and has been seeing another man. While Archie expresses his outrage and tells Mike he is too good for Gloria, Edith is determined to do all she can to help the Stivics salvage their marriage.