Savannah Jackson navigates personal and familial pressures as she enters the new decade of 1990. Her sister Sheila introduces her to a potential romantic interest named Lionel, but Savannah's reflections reveal deeper frustrations with her family's expectations. Despite feeling the need for love, she understands that self-validation does not require a partner.

Contemplating Change

Although Savannah has uprooted her life four times over fifteen years, she feels the need for another move due to her dissatisfaction with Denver and its social scene. Her only connection in Phoenix is her college friend Bernadine Harris, but that doesn’t stop her from pursuing a career opportunity there. Savannah is thrilled about a job opening at a local television station, which aligns with her aspiration to become a TV producer, even though it comes with a significant pay cut.

Financial Concerns

The salary reduction worries Savannah, as it might affect her ability to support her mother, who struggles financially in Pittsburgh. Despite these concerns, Savannah attends a New Year's Eve party, where an encounter with Lionel ends in disappointment when she realizes he has brought a date.

Bernadine's Unraveling Marriage

Bernadine Harris faces her own turmoil as her husband John announces he wants a divorce to marry his young bookkeeper, Kathleen. Despite sensing the decline in her marriage, Bernadine is unprepared for the betrayal and control John exerted over her life, such as delaying her catering business to support his ambitions. The shock leads her to self-medicate with Xanax as she grapples with her new reality.

Robin's Search for Love

In contrast, Robin Stokes is entangled in an unfulfilling relationship with Russell, relying on astrology to guide her love life. Russell’s marriage to another woman shatters her hopes, prompting a rebound affair with an unremarkable coworker, Michael.

Gloria's Solitary Resolve

Gloria Matthews chooses to live without the complications of relationships, focusing instead on her son, her salon, and her comfort routines. A tense morning with her son, Tarik, highlights her struggles with parenthood, especially when David, Tarik's father, makes an obligatory visit. Her past decision to keep Tarik despite an unplanned pregnancy reflects her deep commitment to her Catholic values.

Friendship and Support

Gossip about Bernadine’s public breakdown reaches Gloria through her salon, prompting concern for her friend. Meanwhile, Tarik's absence during his father's visit leaves Gloria to handle difficult truths alone, such as David’s unexpected revelation of his sexuality.

Bernadine's Resilience

Bernadine reacts to her personal chaos by disposing of John's possessions dramatically, an act that symbolizes her emotional turmoil and eventual empowerment. She sells John's antiques for a dollar, a symbolic letting go of the past.

Parental Challenges

As Gloria worries about Tarik's increasingly adult decisions, she faces the heartache of managing her own health crisis alone. Marvin, her new neighbor, becomes a pivotal support figure, reassuring her about Tarik's maturity and being there during her recovery from a serious health scare.

New Beginnings

Savannah's journey to Phoenix with Lionel confirms her disillusionment with him as a romantic partner, prompting a deeper reflection on her desires and self-worth. Meanwhile, Bernadine hires a lawyer to ensure her divorce settlement reflects John's true financial status, finding solace in the arms of a new love, James Wheeler, albeit a complex one given his personal circumstances.

Rediscovering Independence

In a twist of fate, Savannah reconnects with Kenneth, reigniting a past romance that challenges her resolve. Gloria’s evolving friendship with Marvin helps her come to terms with Tarik’s life choices, embracing his independence, and finding a new partner's support comforting.

Acceptance and Growth

As Bernadine moves forward with her business venture, Gloria learns to navigate her health and relationships with strength. Robin faces professional success and personal setbacks, using her achievements to aid her family financially while coming to terms with her father's passing.

Empowerment and Closure

By year's end, each woman has made significant strides in their personal growth. Savannah seizes a career opportunity and asserts her autonomy by distancing herself from Kenneth. Bernadine discovers inner strength and independence, while Gloria finds openness to love beyond familial bonds. Robin finds solace in friendship, ready to embrace motherhood on her own terms.