On the first day of his new school, Pax hopes to make a good impression, meanwhile Pax's mum gets ready to host her judgmental Iranian family.
The Assadi family almost immediately feels the effects of 9/11 on their lives. Pax has now become the target of the school's alpha male, and Afnan has a run-in with a xenophobic customer.
Pax's world is turned upside-down when he has a confusing dream about Mrs Peacock. Afnan is given the responsibility of having "the talk" with Pax.
Pax hopes the school camp will give him an opportunity to increase his cool points in front of Sarah. However, Safia won't let Pax go camping unless his father goes with him.
Pax is going to a basketball tournament and, once again, sees it as an opportunity to gain social capital. To retain customers, Safia learns the subtle art of banter.
Pax has thrown away his old friendships to be in with the popular kids. Meanwhile, Safi and Afnan struggle to see eye to eye.
Pax is desperate to attend his very first high school party, but the only way he can go is to lie to Safia and say that he's going to a study group. Whilst there, Pax meets Roxy.
Safia's suspicions grow when her son arrives home from "study group" at almost midnight. Afnan has had enough and finally confronts Bruce about the way he's treating everyone.
Afnan is left to his own devices to find a new business idea. After a few terrible attempts, Safia finally steps in. Meanwhile, Safia's suspicions of Pax get the better of her.
After finding out about Pax's new girlfriend, Safia tightens the reins on her son's movements. On his first day at his new appliance store, Afnan's patience is tested by an overkeen employee.
Set in Pakistan in 1980, we follow the story of how Afnan and Safia met and what they both overcame to start a new life in New Zealand.
Pax finally has clarity on his religion and decides to declare his faith. However, he still has the dilemma of Roxy. Should he listen to his parents or follow his heart?