As Jane's 40th birthday approaches the tension is building in the Hughes household. Nineteen-year-old Emily is frequently out partying and her nocturnal lifestyle threatens to overshadow the happy family celebration.
Two of the Hughes children have been keeping secrets from their mum and dad and it's only a matter of time before the cat is out of the bag and both girls are in trouble.
Simon and Jane go out for the evening and leave Emily in charge. When 14-year-old Tom won't go to bed on time, a fight breaks out between brother and sister.
It's Valentine's Day, and feeling unsupported in his attempts to discipline the children, Simon starts to lash out at everyone - not an ideal preparation for a romantic evening.
The portrait of family life continues with mum Jane and dad Simon locked in a battle of wills with headstrong daughter Emily.
Dad Simon is reluctantly cast in the role of peacemaker as a row between Jane and Emily over 'borrowed' clothes quickly escalates.