Hilary is confronted at school after criticizing Jim, who classmates call an illegitimate child. The girls quickly argue about university choices while someone accuses Marian of getting into an honors class by cheating and threatens to keep them in a junior college. Back home Hilary returns shaken; her parents greet her, ask if Sutton bullied her, and offer protection. Hilary refuses to deal with Sutton and reveals his involvement with Marian. Outraged, her parents promise to shield her and make those responsible pay, an immediate pledge that leaves the conflict unresolved.