A series of 'horrifically epic' tryouts for his latest movie project, now involving a teen romance, prompt a steamy dialog between the two stars Chris and Abby, while director Dawson and producer Jen decide that they may have to recast Abby's role. Meanwhile, Jack poses in the nude for Joey for her art class' project sketch, who feels herself drawn towards intimacy. Also, Pacey sets out to fulfill Andie's dream date on his own with a romantic dinner, and a encounter in a hotel room.

Joey is in her 2nd month at Worthington University where she is struggling in her beginners writing class taught by Professor David Wilder who criticizes her first essay about her and Dawson. Audrey Liddell, Joey's brash new roommate from Beverly Hills, proves to be more of an annoyance than a friend with her wild and crazy personality. Dawson, who's continuing his studies at USC with an internship in Hollywood, begins his job on a shaky start when he meets Todd Carr, an arrogant, egocentric, hack film director who gives Dawson a hard time. Meanwhile, Jen pays Pacey a visit, who's lying low as he docks his yacht in Boston Harbor after sailing away the summer. At nearby Boston Bay College, Jen and Jack are invited to their first fraternity party. They persuade Joey to come along with Audrey who seems to get along with Jen and Jack, much to Joey's surprise. Also, Jen meets Charlie, a bass player. She is rude to him, insulting him away, but deep inside feels strongly attracted to him.