Doug gets jealous of Carrie's gay co-worker; both Doug and Carrie worry about the strength of their marriage as they sign a 30-year mortgage plan.
Brandon is persuaded by Kelly to hire a journalist for his newspaper; Valerie wants to help Noah with the club; Steve and Carly have difficulty arranging time together.
Emma gives Brandon a going-away present; Dr. Monahan threatens Kelly; cash-strapped Valerie lets a bookie work out of the Peach Pit.
Perplexed Kelly watches helplessly as Emma pursues Brandon; Steve does a comedy routine at the Peach Pit After Dark; David meets a troubled teen.
Steve and Carly want to restore Zach's belief in Santa Claus; Brandon is torn between Emma and Kelly.