
Growing up in racially segregated Birmingham, Alabama, during the 1960's, Rene and Mary Elizabeth manage to stick together despite community intolerance of "mixed" friendships. Many years later, following the death of her father, Rene returns home and reunites with Mary Elizabeth. The women realize that despite their career and family differences, they can help each other find happiness.

Joe is sued after saving a child's life; M.E. and Collier look for an apartment; young M.E., Rene and Collier take high-school aptitude tests.

M.E. and Collier move into their new apartment; Rene's ex-husband visits; Rene and Judge Terhune work together; young Rene runs for student council.

M.E. and Collier refuse to baby-sit; René takes a case examining the civil rights of the dead; young René sports an Afro.

M.E. is in the crossfire of a school shooting; René has heart palpitations; bullies pressure young Collier to end his friendship with René.