Lexie takes an interest in Pearl and decides to help her get a makeover. She takes Pearl to the Randall Park Mall, which is where all the high school students do their shopping in Shaker Heights. Since Pearl does not have much of her own money, she proposes going to the thrift store where there are more affordable items. Lexie finds the thrift store fascinating, and they leave the store with many bags of vintage clothes. Lexie also gives Pearl some of her old clothes. When Pearl wears Lexie’s clothes, she receives compliments from Trip, who she has a crush on. The compliments make Pearl blush.

One day, Mrs. Richardson tells the children to stay out of the house so the carpet can be professionally steamed. Lexie decides that she and Moody should go over to Pearl’s place. While they are at Pearl’s apartment, Lexie complains about the writing prompt for her college admission essay. The prompt is to tell a well-known story from a different perspective. Mia overhears Lexie’s complaint and listens to the children’s conversation carefully. She hears Pearl offer to write Lexie’s admission essay, as she is good at writing. Lexie is elated and thanks Pearl profusely.