At Middleton

Edith Martin and George Hartman, along with their children Audrey and Conrad, start their visit to Middleton College. They are joined by a charming yet clumsy tour guide named Justin, who sets the tone for the day with his enthusiastic welcome.

During the tour, a memorable moment unfolds in the library when Edith and George’s conversation embarrassingly impacts their children. This awkward encounter foreshadows the budding connection between the two parents, while they share laughs about their children’s reactions.

Audrey confronts her mother Edith about her decision regarding Middleton, expressing frustration at what she perceives as a lack of support. This confrontation drives Edith to fabricate an elaborate tale about having a private tour with the Dean, hoping to assert her own wishes.

With her newfound freedom, Edith decides to sneak away with George, leaving their children behind in the group activities. The pair embarks on an adventure with borrowed bicycles, climbing the belltower and sharing light-hearted moments, which strengthen their connection.

Amidst the chaos, Audrey confides in her brother Conrad about her dreams of studying under the esteemed Professor Roland Emerson at Middleton. Despite her aspirations, Conrad remains noncommittal about his own future, feeling uncertain about what path to take.

During lunchtime, Audrey discovers her mother's deception and angrily confronts George about Edith's whereabouts. George's admission that Edith is enjoying a casual meal with him raises questions about their family dynamics and relationships.

Tensions peak when Audrey and Conrad come upon a locked observatory, which leads to a spat between them. Audrey expresses her frustration over Conrad's perceived lack of ambition, leaving him hurt and prompting him to walk away, which adds to her feelings of isolation.

While exploring the campus, Edith and George engage in insightful discussions with a film student named Daphne. The conversations delve into the complicated relationships they share with their children, emphasizing the struggles many parents face.

In a private meeting, Audrey has tea with Professor Emerson, revealing her ambitions. However, she is devastated when she learns that he will be taking a sabbatical, leaving her feelings of uncertainty regarding her future aspirations.

Conrad has a conversation with Boneyard Sims, the manager of the campus radio station, which helps him discover a genuine interest in radio. This discovery marks a pivotal moment in his journey of self-exploration and understanding his own passions.

As twilight settles in, Edith and George find their way back to the belltower, reflecting on the heartfelt connections they have developed. Their shared experiences and deeper emotions become a poignant aspect of their day.

Conrad approaches Audrey, seeking to apologize for their earlier confrontation and expressing a desire to consider studying at Middleton. However, Audrey stands her ground firmly, declaring her decision to abandon the idea of an academic journey at the college.

As the day comes to a close, Edith and George prepare to part ways with a bittersweet farewell. Their parting is filled with nostalgia and an understanding of the complexities of their newfound connection, as well as the realities of their family situations.

In a moment of warmth, Edith reassures Audrey that everything will be alright, offering a comforting embrace. Meanwhile, George extends an olive branch to Conrad by suggesting a scenic route, highlighting the importance of compassion amid life's challenges.