Charles and Jonathan take a job on a telephone crew that is working in southern Minnesota, which requires them to be away from home for several weeks. As they gain success and earn more money than expected, they must decide if the job is worth keeping for the long term. Back in Walnut Grove, little Carrie, who misses her father and craves attention, creates an imaginary friend to pass the time.
When the fire marshal shuts down the After Dark for violating capacity, Steve suggests purchasing the space next door. Unfortunately, Dylan is broke and the only one who knows it is Valerie.
A mysterious person, who calls himself "Viking", has just bombed a cruise ship. He demands six million dollars or another bomb will go off within hours.
Jonathan (Michael Landon) tries to persuade an unmarried schoolteacher (Doreen Lang) to adopt four orphaned brothers.
The murder of a pregnant girl leads Stone and Keller to arrogant radio host Terry Vine, who has a large female fanbase.