Deborah and Robert should have had an affair

I couldn't see them having an affair, but I think their relationship is similar to other shows where there were significant in-laws, like Dan and Jakie's relationship on Roseanne, Bill and Linda on Still Standing, etc. One of the major spouses tends to get either get along really well with the brother/sister in-law or they can't stand each other.

Bad idea and with the families living that close it would have destroyed everyone in both houses. Robert would be desirable for many women in that he is tall and fairly good looking so it is not like his choices were extremely limited. I don't like infidelity but if it had to be done it should be with somebody outside the Barone family.

Their relationship is much more of a collusion than an attraction, because they both identify with Marie liking someone better than them. Besides, sitcom characters typically don't have affairs, that's why we watch them!