Things are very hectic at the Heck house. We know, we know. That's not exactly a newsflash. But this time it's different. Okay, it's not really different. It's just gotten to be too much. For the kids, that is. Axl, Sue and Brick have a sit down talk with Frankie and Mike. They feel she's always nagging and he's always imposing outrageous punishments. This unnecessary discord must cease.

Frankie and Mike are stunned to be on the receiving end of a lecture. They were planning on having a sit down with the kids, who are now standing before them lobbying for independence. No problem. Frankie and Mike decide to let their children fend for themselves. The deal is off if they can't handle responsibility though.

Frankie and Mike are amazed by the non-incompetence their children display. Axl is doing homework. Sue is navigating her busy schedule flawlessly. And Brick finally remembers to bring home the coffeemaker Frankie loaned to school. Now she can return it to her office. With some newfound free time on their hands, Frankie and Mike start enjoying life to the fullest. Yes, they go bowling!

The kids love that their parents aren't around so much. Their freedom is threatened when Sue realizes she lost her jacket. Such an irresponsible act could negate the terms of their deal. She needs help from Axl, who needs help from Brick as far as learning the story behind Of Mice and Men for school. It's not really about mice, you know.