Vera Hale and Holden Hale. Vera's parents contributed generously, while the Hale parents refused to help. When the Hale parents propose moving in, Vera rejects. Holden acts against Vera's wishes, so Vera invites her own parents. Conflicts erupt, with soaring expenses and daily frictions. Holden sees reality, lets go of blind filial piety, sorts boundaries, and the family finds a way to get along.