In the first of a two-part story arc, emotions between Marin and Jack escalate when Marin goes home to New York during Thanksgiving week, where Jane has arranged for her to meet with various editors about publishing her new book. She is thrilled to be back in familiar surroundings but misses her life back in Elmo, particularly Jack. He is ready to make his move with her, but an unexpected twist throws a wrench in his plans, ending in a cliffhanger. Meanwhile Patrick must choose between spending Thanksgiving with Annie in New York or with his new family, and Ben hopes Theresa will help in the preparation of their annual "Orphan Thanksgiving" for Elmoians.