Joseph (Ricky Spanish) asks his stepmom Addyson James for permission to take the family car, figuring his dad might refuse. She promises to bring him the keys when dad gets home, but instead Ricky hears them fighting and mom covers up for her husband when she visits Joseph’s bedroom. Joseph notes that his father is abusive to his mother as well, but feels powerless to do anything about it. This is a special night, his parents’ wedding anniversary, but typically dad didn’t buy his wife a present. At least she has her loyal stepson to confide in, and she tries to build up his self-confidence, but Joseph thinks of himself as a nerd, and inadequate. It doesn’t help that his dad complains about him not living up to his expectations.