Author: TvMegasite Admin

Beyond The Gates Transcript

Transcript provided by Suzanne and Thane

THIS STILL NEEDS EXTENSIVE EDITING!

I want you to stay away from my wife. Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson. Can I get you something? That woman had the audacity, the sheer gall to show up to my home unannounced like a raging bull. I take full responsibility for my shameful behavior. We definitely won this round. So, you’re telling me you’re out here

sleeping with two guys?

I didn’t say that. Chels, I swear. [chuckles] Chill. It’s one guy and his wife. This video is incredible. Andre, were you…

about to kiss me?

[chuckles nervously] Andre? [stammers] I guess I need to work on my impulse control. Yeah, you do that. I have a boyfriend who I love very much. And your lack of impulse control must have come with a side of selective amnesia, because somehow you seem to manage to forget all about Derek. [door opening] Eva, what’s going on? Oh, Kat had a friend over for dinner earlier, and I had some things to finish up on my computer, but then I saw the way she left things, so I just wanted to pitch in and help out. Thanks, but it’s not your job to clean up after my daughter. My job is about making your life easier, which includes making sure you don’t come home to a mess. Since I have you here, would you mind helping me out with something else?

Anything.

I want to find a server from the awards banquet last night. Her name’s Sherry Carter. [huffs] Mm. Oh. [grunts] Ugh. Stop being so damn happy. Oh, crap. ♪ ♪ I mean it, babe. I’m gonna make it up to you for cutting our honeymoon short. I promise. In so many delicious ways. Hayley. Baby, are you sure you’re not disappointed that we left Italy early? I’m fine, Bill. But look at this traffic. We’re not moving at all. I just want to be home. What was I thinking? I can, I can refill this bottle with some other expensive wine. Bill would spot that in a heartbeat. And I can’t put the cork back in and the foil back on. [gasps] Please, please, please, please, please. Please, please, please. Okay. Thank God you’re there. Help!

Ashley, hear me out.

You can’t explain away trying to kiss me. But it didn’t happen. Look. Ashley, I’m sorry, it– That’s not an excuse, but… Look, what didn’t happen but almost happened, it was out of line, all right? And I’m sorry. [scoffs] Look, I don’t mean to overreact. I mean, nothing actually happened. But what almost happened cannot actually happen, Andre.

Yeah.

I love Derek. I know. I know. Okay. Look, I’m sorry. [elevator dings] [sighs] DEREK: Ash. [chuckles nervously] Additional sponsorship provided by…

Where did you come from?

From what is now my former hospital room. Can finally blow this place, babe. Came looking for you to give you the good news. Well, discharged patient or not, you cannot just get in a chair and wheel yourself around the hospital without assistance.

We have rules.

Yeah? Any rules against this?

Derek, Derek, Derek.

[laughs] Or how about rules against… …telling my girlfriend how much I love her. Dad? Pop. Don’t say anything to them. You can’t keep trying to deal with this by yourself. How was school? Same old. Come on, Samantha.

Back down here for homework.

SAMANTHA: Okay. Something’s off. You got that in less than ten words. When you know, you know. Um, Sherry with one “R” or two? Uh, two. Uh, if I hadn’t seen her name tag last night, I’d have no idea. I barely know her. Oh, okay. I’ll call the club. Hopefully they know how to track her down. I’ve never seen her at the club before, so she must have been extra staff that they brought in for the events banquet. I… It was such a surprise to see her like that. You mean you know her from somewhere else? We met a few days ago. The encounter was… memorable. I heard from one of the nurses about you talking a suicidal woman off the hospital roof. Was that her? I’m sorry, Eva. I can’t talk about the details of that incident. I get it. Um, I’ll make that call. Oh, and you should know that Sherry got fired from the gala that night and asked to leave the club. Oh, um, then I’m sure the banquet manager will remember her. NICOLE: I really want to make sure she’s all right. So if you need to drop my name to get a phone number or an address, do that. Okay. What the hell are you doing in your ex-husband’s new house? Is it Glorietta Interiors? You’d think Bill would get a new designer for the new wife.

Were you able to get everything?

Yes. And you don’t get to see a bit of it until you answer my questions. Why are you here? And what is with this strange and very specific shopping list? [gasps] Dani! This is Bill’s fault. The minute he took over that press conference and told the world how little I matter… Ugh. Consider the source. That man is not fit to kiss your Louboutins. You matter a hell of a lot more than he does. This is why you are my oldest– make that dearest– friend in the world. Same goes. What needs to be done? We have got to get everything back where it was. There cannot be one speck of evidence that can be used against me. Mm. Bill can be a force in the courtroom. Who cares about him? I fear the wrath of Anita Dupree. [exhales] What’s up with you two? Tyrell. You got something on your mind? No chatter, please. You guys are always honest about how quiet study habits are vital to getting into a good college. You’re both right. School is important, but so is family time. I’m in the middle of something. The sooner you share, the sooner you can get back to it. You first, Tyrell. Is everything good at school?

Well–

I got asked out today. To what and by whom? It doesn’t matter, since I’m the only 16-year-old in the DMV who’s not allowed to date. Samantha, we’ve already discussed this. Then it was a possibility. Today I had to turn down a crush material guy because I had to hit him with a no and a lame excuse because my two dads won’t let me go out with boys. That’s not only mad unfair, it’s humiliating. Do we even know this boy?

So not the point.

I disagree. Pop, you’re all about freedom.

[chuckles] I enjoy it.

Shouldn’t I have the same freedom to explore that all my friends have? What kind of “exploring” are we talking about here? SAMANTHA: Pop, don’t be cringe. That’s not what she meant. Come on. I just want to be clear what you’re talking about when you say you want to date these young, horny little bastards. Why are you taking it there? Because, Samantha, he’s a boy. And everyone except for you in this house knows exactly what that means. For me, it means hitting up a movie. That might not be so bad. With supervision, of course. Yeah, yeah. We could do like a double date. It would be a secret double date. Your pops and I would be seated a few rows behind you. We’d even pay for the popcorn. [muffled scream] [laughs] Okay, joking. I don’t think she has a sense of humor about this, Martin. But it might be time to rethink the no-dating rule. I think that it’s at least worth the discussion. Bet! Discuss it into a “yes” this time, please. No promises on the outcome. If I’m well enough to go home, I’m well enough to leave here on my own two feet. You have been around this place long enough to realize that it has rules. [chuckles] And you’re the queen of following rules. I know.

You should be glad I am.

Oh, yeah? Thought I was the only one coloring outside the lines today. What rule were you tempted to break, Nurse Perfect? Well, I had a highly illicit make-out session at this very nurse’s station just a little while ago. Did you now? I even ended up in a patient’s lap. Can you believe it? You bad, bad girl. Oh, I am. [weak chuckle] Those activities are frowned on around here. Breaking the rules like that, you must be in love. And who can object to that? Not me. [scoffs] Come on. Let’s get the man of my dreams out of here. Danielle Dupree, you are nothing if not consistent.

And that is not a compliment.

I will admit, I am an “act first, ask questions later” type of gal. You always say that when we’re in the middle of an impossible situation you created. Now is not the time, Pamela. We don’t have time to delve into the core of my personality. I can’t have Bill and Hayley get back from their stupid honeymoon and put together that I was here, or that I helped myself to their wedding present, or that I adjusted their wedding photo. Honey, you breaking in here was bad enough. Everything else is just cherries on top. I didn’t break in, per se. One of the security guards has a soft spot for me. And you batted those eyes at him? I’m very grateful for people like him and friends like you who I can turn to in a pinch. You’d do the same for me. [gasps] Oh! Voilà!

Miracle worker.

[laughs] Looks like a match to me. Right down to the vintage. What about the picture frame? Not even close. All we need is the glass in the frame. It’ll fit just like the one you broke.

I mean adjusted.

Great. Now, about that bow. I’m afraid I trashed the original one. Let me work my magic on that while you switch out the glass in the frame. Deal. Oh. There we go. It is a really good thing that you disconnected those security cameras when you waltzed in here. Your tracks should be covered. Mostly, anyway. Great. I need a nap. Oh, you need to get it together and fix things before Bill and Hayley come back. We’ve got time. Hayley’s probably still drooling over those cliché tourist attractions in Italy. BILL: Yes. Okay. That works out perfectly. All right. Thank you. What did you do? Just pulled some strings. Momentarily, we’ll have a police escort just beyond the next exit. Where we will find…?

Helicopter transport.

[gasps softly]

How did you pull that off?

[laughs] Well, I represented a city official in a particularly embarrassing lawsuit a few years back, and I won, of course. And he owed me a massive favor. Oh, my goodness. So…

We’ll be home real soon, okay?

Mm.

Thank you.

Of course. [sighs] EVA: Hi, yes. This is Dr. Nicole Richardson’s assistant,

and I’m calling from…

Hey, hon. Why are you trying to get in touch with that server from the gala? Do you know she was fired in the middle of the event? No. But are you sure? [doorbell rings] I’ll get that. So the banquet manager has already left for the day, and his assistant doesn’t have access to the employee records. But she’s going to try to reach him at home. NICOLE: Okay, that’s great. Hey, Aunt Nicole.

Eva.

Hey. We weren’t expecting you, Andre. Yeah, I got the proofs from the gala. Oh, they look spectacular.

That’s wonderful.

Yeah. Uh, I thought you were gonna have a messenger bring them by, though. Um, I was, but, um, I realized that I’d be in the neighborhood, so I figured I would bring them anyway. Uh, it was no trouble. Unless… did I interrupt something? No, of course not. And thank you for these. Um, Nicole, while you’re looking over the photos, I can finalize your schedule for tomorrow. Oh, you don’t have to do that this evening. It’s getting late. I kind of want to wait around anyway to see if we hear anything back from the banquet manager. Okay. Thanks.

[phone vibrates]

I’m sorry. I need to get this. Well, Andre, now that we have the room to ourselves, would you like to tell me the real reason you came by here tonight? [chuckles] To bring you the pictures. Try that on somebody that doesn’t know you as well as I do. Something is going on with you, so you might as well just tell me what it is. ASHLEY: Here we go. Why are we at your place instead of mine? You think I trust your roommates to take care of you? The guys are okay. They park me in my favorite chair with pizza and beer. Right, which is why you’re staying right here where I can look after you until I think you’re ready to be on your own. Ash, I’m fine. I don’t need to be babied. A building fell on top of you, Derek. And this isn’t babying.

Look, I’m not complaining.

Really? ‘Cause it kind of sounds like you are. No way.

I love your TLC.

Good. ‘Cause I like giving it. Look, we’re two years into this thing that we’re doing, and I think it’s going pretty well. That plan we laid out for ourselves is really coming together. I was thinking the same thing. I like the way things are going very much. Then maybe don’t fight me when I try to show you how much you mean to me. Maybe just relax and enjoy it when I want to show you how grateful I am that you’re here. And I’m here. And we’re here. Together. Let me get you something to drink. Wait, what are my choices? Water, milk, apple juice? How about a beer?

Best girlfriend ever.

Okay, wait. Don’t get too excited. It’s the nonalcoholic type. But Jacob swears it tastes like the real thing. Maybe second best girlfriend ever? [chuckles] [exhales] Boy. Hey. I could have sworn I set the security code before we left, babe. You just feel safe behind these gates. [chuckles]

Italy is beautiful…

Mm. …but I love it here, Bill. Let me put these bags away so we can get settled in. Okay. After all that, I could use another drink.

Want one?

Yes, please. Thank you. What the hell? BILL: Hayley? I never liked plain water. I bet that’s the smartest thing you’ve put in your system all day. With that and the aspirin, when you wake up tomorrow, you won’t have the slightest trace of a hangover. I owe you, Pamela. You saved my skin today. If you hadn’t have panicked, you would have been able to handle it all on your own. You nixed my nap and got us out ASAP even though Bill and Hayley are thousands of miles away. So smart to get it done and me out of there. I wasn’t in my right mind. Just do me a favor. If Bill and Hayley ever figure out that you busted into their place, leave my name out of it. I would never use your name as an accessory. I might need you to bail me out. What is it? What…? I don’t get it, babe. What’s wrong? This photo. I already thought it was weird at first because it wasn’t where I put it. I left it over there before, but then I just found it here on the mantel. Okay. And then when I picked it up and looked… See? There’s a deep scratch in the middle of the photo. It wasn’t there before. I’m sure of it. Okay. [chuckles] Babe, I see the scratch, but how could it have gotten there? Unless the glass broke somehow. But the glass isn’t broken. This just doesn’t make any sense. Okay, look, I have an idea. Why don’t we open this, and we can pour ourselves some superb wine and just relax, babe, okay? We’re just edgy from a long flight. We spent forever in traffic. When you’re tired, everything looks like a problem.

Maybe you’re right.

Yeah. You know? Tell you what. We’ll get a new one printed up to replace this one. It was probably just a defect that we didn’t notice before. But in the meantime, a glass of 1992 Château de La Colère will go down nicely right about now. Wait, Bill, stop. Babe, what is it, huh? Did the bottle move, too? No, but there was a beautiful inscription engraved on the back, remember? Celebrating us. It’s not there anymore. You see that? No sign of an inscription that made it such a special gift. Look, Bill, this isn’t tiredness talking. Something is wrong. Yeah, you’re right. Are you thinking what I’m thinking? The alarm was off… The scratched picture… The bottle of wine obviously replaced… BOTH: Dani. That bitch broke in here. She invaded our home. I’m gonna find her. She’s gonna wish she was never born. No. She’s mine. Yeah. If you hate it, I will run out and get you the real thing. It wouldn’t exactly necessarily not be good for you.

Maybe.

Ash. I don’t deserve a beer. I haven’t been appropriately grateful for all the love and affection you’ve been throwing my way. Don’t make a fuss. I like taking care of people. Hello? Nurse. Yeah, but a fuss is what you deserve. And I want to make sure I’m not sending you the wrong signal. I’m the luckiest guy in the world because I found you. And I never want you to doubt my feelings for you. I don’t. Good. And all your loving, all your caring, pour it all on me. Every drop. I can’t get enough of it. And you’re 100% right about our plan. It’s right on track. And I love where it’s going. Almost as much as I love you. Just know that you don’t have to run into a burning building to motivate me to show my love for you. Are you sure? Because with my job,

I have plenty of opportunities.

Absolutely sure. If you ever want more of my attention, all you have to do is… That. [chuckles softly] We both know that you didn’t have to bring these pictures over here tonight. They’re just a handy excuse, weren’t they? [scoffs] Auntie? Are you trying to shrink me? No. But now Auntie knows she’s right. Do you remember that conversation we had before you became a professional photographer? You were worried you were making a mistake. I practically had to pull it out of you with dental instruments. But we both knew that you needed to talk it out. So what is it this time? It’s Ashley. Haven’t we already talked about your leanings towards Ashley and how you should resist them? Yeah, I know, but I… I wanted to… I-I thought– I thought about kissing her. Actually, I almost did.

Andre.

Almost. Fortunately, she pulled back at the last minute. Thank goodness. Yeah, but she knew what I wanted to do.

And now she’s angry.

And she has the right to be. I’m just afraid to think what would have happened if I would have actually gone through with that. I hope you’re not here trying to get permission to pursue her because you’re not gonna get it from me. I know. Ashley is deeply in love with Derek and vice versa. And I know you know that because you have eyes. I know that. But what I don’t get is where are all these crazy attractions coming from? I knew Ashley long before she ever got together with Derek. And the idea of making a move on her never even occurred to me. So, why now, when she’s with somebody do I have this, this urge to…? Where does that come from? That’s not me. That– I don’t typically go for girls who already are attached. [sighs] And I can’t figure out why I did it this time. Or nearly did it. I think this is why you really came here tonight. You need someone to tell you you need to stay away from Ashley. No matter what impulse you’re feeling, you know they’re wrong. Besides, there are plenty of women out there besides Ashley. Yeah, there’s no shortage of pretty ladies, that’s for sure. Why don’t you stay a bit, join us for dinner. No, thanks. I’ve already interrupted enough of your night. You are never an interruption. [chuckles] Thank you, but… you gave me the kick in the butt that I need, and I’m over it. [chuckling] Thanks, Auntie. All right, I’ll let myself out. [relieved sigh] Andre leave? Is everything okay with him? Yeah, he just needed to get something off his chest. Well, he came to the right place for that. Actually, there’s something else that I need to talk about. Of course. Let me just finish up with Eva and track down this server. No, Nicole, you need to let that go.

Excuse me?

If that woman needs help, she needs to get it somewhere else. NICOLE: She absolutely needs help, Ted. She didn’t just happen to get a job at a gala that I was being honored at. Like Freud said, there are no coincidences. You’re right. There are no coincidences. But that’s why you need to stay far away from that woman. Hayley. I know it’s impolite to just drop by, but I wanted you to be the first to know that Bill and I are back. One of his cases went into overdrive, and he’s just crushed. He had to cut our honeymoon short after promising me the trip of a lifetime. But I don’t have to tell you. You were married to him long enough. Yes, I was. So here we are, home again. We landed just a little bit ago, actually. And I figured you’d rather I tell you personally instead of running into each other on the street. No one likes a rude surprise, am I right?

I don’t know anyone who does.

Hmm. Hayley, is this the only reason–? That I came by? Actually, there is one other thing. Oh, wow. You were really something. Thank you. It meant a lot to get that cover. Oh, well.

Hey!

Oops. What is going on? Are you crazy? One of us sure as hell is. And the crazy ends now, if you know what’s good for you. I know you were in my house, bitch. I know you drank our wine, and I know you smashed our wedding photo. You violated my space. You found your way in in that entitled, petty way that you have because you are just so obsessed with the life that Bill and I are making that you just can’t stay away. But you need to do that. Stay away, Dani. Stay far away and stop dwelling on us. You know, it’s only making you look like the pathetic witch that you are. And all it did was bring us to the breaking point. You and Bill? Mybreaking point. If you don’t leave us alone, I will get a restraining order against you. And if you violate it, I will have your ass thrown in jail and the charges won’t be dropped. You might have started on a high ground, painting me as the home-wrecker, but you violating my home, invading it, and destroying my things, that makes you the villain, Dani. Yeah, and then everyone will see you for the wack-job that you really are. I don’t know what you’re talking about.

Mm.

If you have evidence of these alleged actions, please, let’s have it. Otherwise, it’s just a steaming load of crap like your pathetic marriage. You can deny it all you want, but we both know the truth. Don’t try me again, Dani. You don’t want to see what happens when you do. Bye now. Damn it. Hey. It’s that time again. You know where I am. [scoffs] Dinner, everyone. Hurry, before it gets cold. [clears throat] Tyrell. Is there something you want to talk about? We talked to Samantha about dating, but we never got around to what was going on with our son.

I’m fine.

SMITTY: Really? You’ve always been quiet, but you’ve been keeping to yourself a little more lately. Except for those secret looks with your sister that you don’t think we notice. ‘Cause she wanted me to push the whole dating thing. Is that it? Are you sure? SMITTY: I remember what it was like when I was your age, and I wanted… wanted help with things, but I didn’t want to ask. Dad, I can handle it. Handle what? I’m having problems with calculus. I’m getting through them, though. You see? I told you. Nothing major. Now we can eat because starving the boy won’t help anyone. [sighs] NICOLE: Would you care to explain why you’re trying to tell me what to do? TED: What I mean is, she made you come up to the hospital roof. She only wanted to talk to you. So if she came to the gala on purpose, she wanted something more from you. Agreed. Which is why I need to find her. Look, Nicole, what I’m trying to say is this lady is fixated on you. I’m no psychiatrist, but I don’t think the right thing to do is for you to treat her. I mean, you’re not wrong if I’m part of her problem in some way. The thing is, Sherry needs help and I don’t think she’s getting it. TED: Whatever the situation, I think we both know and agree that you’re the wrong one to treat her. I’m sorry for coming on so strong. I just wanted to protect you. I appreciate that. Are you sure you’re okay? You’ve been through a lot the past couple of days. Are you checking to see if I’m strong enough? Just try me. Thanks for staying so late, Eva. Nicole values your time and dedication.

I’d do anything for her.

Good. Good. Oh, by the way, you don’t have to worry about looking for that woman from the gala again. Nicole has decided it’s best to just… let that go. Oh, if that’s what Nicole wants. Thanks. [scoffs] [phone vibrating] Hey. Are you okay?

I was starting to get worried.

Oh. You had nothing to worry about. And I’m glad you didn’t try to follow me. I had no problem tearing Dani a new one. Oh, Lord. We can breathe easy. Your evil ex won’t be bothering us anymore. Oh… Who is this woman before me? She bears little resemblance to my polite little wife. Oh, I’m the same woman that you married.

Mm-hmm.

I’m just done. And you know what? I think you would be proud of me because I’ve just been taking it and taking it in the name of making peace. But tonight, I stood up for myself, for the both of us.

[chuckling]

Mm-hmm. You know what? I am proud of you. And I am more than ready to be done with all of this. You know what? No more getting back at Dani for all the things that she’s done. Forget about her, right? We got better things to do and a life to build together. [both laughing, moaning] Mm. [pop music playing] I checked the time. It’s “never again” already.

So it is.

Yeah. You want something to drink? Uh, sure. What do you want? Surprise me. ♪ ♪ Damn buttons. Bad day? [sighs] Yeah, to put it mildly. You? Well… It was an adventure. You want to talk about it?

No.

[scoffs] No, I do not. [sighs]

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Beyond The Gates Transcript

Transcript provided by Suzanne and Thane

THIS STILL NEEDS EXTENSIVE EDITING!

I’m so proud of you, Mom. The Distinguished Service Award. I wish… I know you would have been there if you could, Kat. And that letter you sent was wonderful. More precious to me than that award. I’ll be at the next and every single award ceremony after. Best Daughter award goes to you. Need something? Oh, isn’t this dinner with the Grands night? Are you trying to get rid of me? [scoffs] Why would I do that? Would it have something to do with that table for two? Anyone I know? Starting a side hustle as a psychiatrist/psychic? Walk in depressed, walk out with the lottery numbers?

[laughs]

Your humor is trying to mask your desire to make me disappear, and, oh, hold on. It’s getting clearer. You’ll have a lovely night. Funny, Mom. No, I’m just looking out for you. We all know how grandmother feels

about tardiness.

[sighs]

Mm.

Love you. Have fun, but not too much fun. ♪ ♪ ASHLEY: Okay.

Take it easy.

Mm. This is the part where you get back in bed. You know I’m all better, right? I think you want to keep me here for observation

’cause you’re crazy about me.

Firefighter Baldwin,

I am on duty.

Mm…

Gonna be my night nurse?

If you’re lucky. I got a whip-smart girlfriend and I walk through fires. Damn right I’m lucky.

Bed.

Okay.

Now, this is what I call glorious.

Mm. Being here with you, relaxing, enjoying the finer things in life. Being able to breathe and be hopeful. The future we always dreamed of.

Mm-hmm.

[door closes] Until one of our children or grandchildren disrupts things.

Hey, look who’s here.

Hello.

Hi, you two.

[both laugh] Your sister will be here any minute, and then we can all sit down to a lovely family meal. What is Rowena cooking? It smells heavenly. Coq au vin.

With her famous apple tart for dessert.

Mm-hmm. Oh, I wish I could stay, but I can’t. Why not? DANI: I have a bit of business I need to attend to.

Business?

ANITA: Well, if this is taking you away from the weekly family meal, this business must be earth-shattering. We’re dying to hear. ♪ ♪ My business is mine alone, and I-I don’t want to discuss it because I’m afraid of jinxing it. But enough about me. Nicole, where are you going to display your new award? With all your honors and statuettes, you must be running out of room. This business you’re attending to wouldn’t have anything to do with Bill and Hayley, would it? DANI: They are honeymooning. Out of sight, out of mind. Naomi said she caught you looking at their photo dumps on social media. So that’s what we walked in on. It was nothing, Mother. And why is she discussing that with you?

She’s concerned. We all are.

Well, you don’t need to be. And no, to answer your question, my business has nothing to do with the Shamiltons. Fine. Fine. If-if you must know, I am this close to landing a very hot designer who shall remain nameless for Chelsea’s fashion show. All I need to do to seal the deal is go out to drinks and we’re golden.

Well, that’s exciting.

Mm-hmm. You know the fashion world. Always something afoot. Sorry you won’t be joining us. Send Rowena my regards. There’s apple tart for dessert. I wish I could reschedule, but I won’t say no to leftovers.

There won’t be any.

[chuckles]

Good luck with your meeting.

Thanks, Mom.

Mm-hmm.

I will check in tomorrow. Sissy, keep polishing those awards. And when you see Andre the next time, tell him he knocked it out of the park with that video, right? That nephew of yours, he’s got a gift. Got to fly. Love you. [sighs] ANDRE: Hey. Knock, knock.

Hey, sorry to interrupt.

ASHLEY: Andre.

Hey.

Here to see your aunt? No, here to see you. So, I ran into a friend who works for the Washington Record, and she heard about your daring rescue.

She wants to do a piece about you.

That’s wonderful.

That’s awful.

What? Come on, Derek. It’ll be fun. Yeah, I volunteered to do the pictures, for that personal touch. That is so nice of you. You have to do this. I mean, you don’t care, do you, Derek? No, it really wasn’t a big deal, and I’m out of uniform, so… No, don’t even sweat it. You know, the whole Fire Guy of the Month thing

works for you.

[Ashley chuckles]

ANDRE: Smile.

[camera shutter clicks] [camera shutter clicks] DANI: Violating neighborhood rules with this tackiness? I would laugh if it weren’t so vulgar. [sighs] [gasps]

Okay. Careful.

All right. [chuckles] You got the shot you wanted? Eh, they can’t all be winners. Hey, this time, try to think about the folks who have a lot more days ahead because you decided to show up.

Let me get out of your way.

Oh, stay. It’s better with you in it.

It’s…

Is that okay with you?

The closer the better.

[laughs] All right.

[camera shutter clicks]

[clears throat] [indistinct P.A. announcement] I hate this. Can you tell?

Not at all. [chuckles]

Yeah, you look great.

One more. And…

[camera shutter clicks]

Perfection.

DEREK: Yeah. Glad you got

what you came for.

Yeah. Uh, let me let you get back to saving lives. [Ashley chuckles] Bye, Andre.

[grunts]

Ooh. Are you okay? Do you need more pain meds? No, it’s not that bad. Maybe if you could just

rub my head a little?

Yeah. Here. Is that better? [both chuckle] You are going to get your picture and your story in the newspaper? That was so nice of Andre. If you say so. What’s that supposed to mean? [R&B music playing]

Amor.

[chuckles] You look increíble. Tomas, I didn’t know you were here. Someone named Eva let me in. This is very sweet. Thank you so much. And please tell me Eva was on her way out?

She’s not a friend?

My mother’s personal assistant. She’s filling in until the real deal heals, but till that happy day, we’re stuck with Evil Eva. She didn’t look so sinister to me. Looks can be deceiving. She’s up to something, I know it. But my mom thinks she’s some kind of diamond in the rough.

Your mother’s very trusting.

Yeah, she’s a psychiatrist. You’d think she’d be able to see through people, but… that’s my mom for you.

Seeing the best in the ones who don’t deserve it.

Hmm. VERNON: Mighty quiet over there, Dr. Richardson. She must be having some very deep thoughts. Let her cook. Am I the only one who has doubts about Dani and this business meeting? We shouldn’t believe her? Just a few days ago, she was packing heat at her ex-husband’s wedding. She says she’s moved on, but then she’s stalking them on social media, looking at pictures of Bill’s Italian honeymoon. I guess it was too much to hope that she had gotten past it like she said. After a decades-long marriage and complete betrayal? Not likely. Might still carry a torch for that man, but at least she’s not carrying a gun.

Amen. Thank God for that.

Hmm. A-And how would she start trouble even if she wanted to? You know, Bill and Hayley are thousands of miles away. There’s that, I just… Calm yourself, Nicole. We have nothing to worry about. Dani has learned her lesson. George. Goodness, you scared

the life out of me.

I’m sorry, ma’am.

I didn’t mean to startle you.

Well, it’s good to know that Fairmont Security moves with the stealth of a cat. Uh, yeah. Well, I was just doing my rounds and noticed you coming up the driveway, so… Yes, I know, it is late for a visit. Uh, well, the thing is, Mr. Hamilton, uh, and the other Mrs. Hamilton are on their, uh… uh, well, vacation.

George?

Yes. You can say the word.

Honeymoon.

Gotcha. Time heals all wounds. And so much that I am bringing them a wedding gift.

You don’t say.

Mm-hmm. Well, that’s mighty generous of you because I, um… Uh, well, to be blunt, I heard about what happened at the wedding. You mean when I pulled a gun on the bride and groom?

Yes.

Not my proudest moment, but I’m pleased to let you know that it also was not as harrowing as they all made it seem in the media. Okay, well, that’s-that’s good to know. [chuckles] There’s absolutely nothing to worry about.

Hmm.

George? You’re looking at this box like I have a gun inside it. I am happy to let you know that I do not. Okay. [laughs]

All right.

It’s a bomb. [indistinct P.A. announcement] ♪ ♪ [stifled laugh] Huh. Huh… ASHLEY: Are you ever not actively flirting?

No. Not when it comes to you.

[laughs softly] ASHLEY: No, I want to know what you meant. I said it was so thoughtful of Andre to get his friend to write a story about you in the Washington Record, and you’re like, “If you say so”? Did I say that? I don’t remember. Must have been the concussion, or all the smoke inhalation. [coughs] [knocking on door] I’m not through with you. Come in. Hi. Can I help you with something? I’m looking for a young man. Well, we’ve got a few. Any in particular? Uh, that one. Uh, well, this one’s actually taken so… Uh, well, I don’t want to keep him. I’m Lucille, and I just want to thank you. Thank me? For what? For saving my baby’s life. I bring tidings of great joy. Something tells me Rowena’s ready to ring the dinner bell. My nose never lies. [chuckles] She just took the rolls out of the oven. Well, listen, can’t insult the chef by being late to the table.

Nicole?

[sighs]

I hate to do this, but…

You’re needed at the hospital. I’m sorry. One of my patients. Please tell Rowena I apologize.

I’ll save you a piece of apple tart.

Mmm. Thank you. I love you. Love you more, baby.

Be careful.

Always. [door closes] Lucky me.

Starting with dessert.

[laughs] I get you all to myself. There ain’t nothing sweeter than that. There’s more life and love in you, Mr. Dupree, than any man half your age. [chuckles] Nice to hear it. Because the way your children have been behaving lately, it’s-it’s draining, Anita. I mean, all that drama. And Dani?

Well, she’s your child.

No… Yours. Unpredictable is what she is. A bomb, did you say? Did-did you say a bomb? [laughs] The look on your face, George. Priceless. You didn’t think I was serious, did you? I’m not-not gonna lie, you got me that time, Ms. Hamilton. Uh, it’s Dupree again.

Ms. Dupree.

Ms. Dupree, and I hold absolutely no lingering feelings for Bill or the new Mrs. Hamilton.

No animosity.

Okay. [sniffles] And they have forgiven me for my stress reaction at their wedding. Well, that’s really good. All I want is a fresh start. And for them to really know how I feel about their union. And to give them something they’ll never forget. Mm. Sounds like steps in the right direction. And I want it to be the first thing that they see when they get home. So if you could just give me the code. And what code would that be, Ms. Dupree? So I could leave it inside for them,

safe and secure.

Oh… So if I were to give you that code, I could lose my job. I would never let that happen to you. You mean too much to me. To Fairmount Crest. You’re much more than an employee, George.

I hope you know that.

[sighs] After all the time that you’ve been with us and everything that you’ve done for us, you’re practically family. So, a little peace offering to the happy couple.

[clears throat]

And it’ll be our little secret. Please? [sighs]: Hmm. Oh, the little guy from the fire.

I remember him.

Hi. LUCILLE: You could hold Pooneil, but after that death-defying rescue… Uh, it really wasn’t a big deal. It was the bravest thing I’d ever seen. I-It takes a special kind of human to run into a house when the roof has seconds away from collapsing. Uh, wait, I’m sorry, come again? Seconds? You knew the roof was collapsing? LUCILLE: Yeah… This cat means the world to me. He has seen me through so many rough times. To be honest, when you saved him, you saved me. And our hero forever. DEREK: Well, just-just… doing my job, like I said. Don’t mention it. Bless you. Bless you. Thank you so much. I can explain. Good. Start. [sighs] Andre. What’s got your attention? Mind if I take a look? TOMAS: Something smells delicioso. Well, I hope you like coq au vin. My grandparents’ cook taught me how to make it. Smells like you were a good student. Well, wait till you taste it. The kitchen in my place is the size of a postage stamp. So that’s why we’re here. My parents’ place. I see. And they are joining us? Nope. They’re out for the night, so we have the place to ourselves. Here’s to a wonderful evening, then. So, what’s it like working for my former Uncle Bill? Hmm. I could tell you the truth. He’s a tough attorney who goes to the wall for his clients. Or I could say he’s impossible…

Hmm.

…hard to please, works the clerks to the brink of exhaustion and that he’s heartless

and unforgiving.

Mm.

That’s what I want to hear.

[both chuckle] They’re both Bill. Different sides of him, I guess.

He’s complicated.

Mm-mm. It’s cut-and-dry to me. He’s selfish, small-minded and not to be trusted. You hate him. Understatement. Well, there’s at least one good thing he did recently. He gave me his blessing. [scoffs] For what? To see you. You were discussing me with him? I only told him that we’d met and that I like you. Oh. Do you? Muchísimo. You trust me, George, don’t you? Known me half my life. From Dupree to Hamilton and back again. You’re right. And my heart went out to you at that press conference. That man really did you dirty. Thanks. You know, after everything that you and your family have done for me… 8-3-9-4-2. But listen, you didn’t hear it from me. It is our little secret. You’re the best.

Night, now.

Night. [laughs softly]

[keypad beeping]

8-3-9-4-2. Voilà. [door opens] Arrivederci, Roma. Hello, U.S.A. [both chuckle] [sighs] Yeah, I’m sorry we had to cut the honeymoon short, though, babe. And that this limousine ride from Manhattan is the quickest way to get us home today. But I’ll make it up to you. You know that, right?

Bill.

Hmm? I’m the wife of a very important attorney now, and I’m far from disappointed.

Yeah?

Mm-hmm. Despite the long ride? Yeah. We’re one step closer from making our new house a home.

Home sweet home.

Mm-hmm. Mm. Mm-mm-mm. You know, most wives would be disappointed by a shortened honeymoon. Oh. Well, it’s not your fault that when a client needs help, they call the best. And I know from experience how important it is to have Bill Hamilton’s full attention

on the matter at hand.

Mm-hmm-hmm. How did I get this lucky? A wife who loves law almost as much as she loves her lawyer. Mm. You’re so incredible. And just because we’re cutting the Italian part of the honeymoon short doesn’t mean we can’t continue it on Marigold Road, babe. Huh. You know what?

You’re right.

Mm-hmm. And I’m looking forward to that. Mm. And that gives us even more time to make that beautiful house into your dream come true, Bill. Mm. [beeping]

[beeps]

Hmm. Should have changed your password, Bill. Old dog, new tricks. [whistling “Bridal Chorus”] What’s the big secret? Use the wrong f-stop, forget to…

[scoffs]

…take off the lens cap? Uh… um… I-If you must know… [gasps] Andre. ANDRE: Yeah, I wanted to surprise you with it.

Do you like it?

You know I want that framed, right? [laughs softly] ANDRE: Now don’t fall in love with this one. I got a whole photo album full of all the photos from the gala. This one I want for my office, the other ones you can send along to coordinate with Eva for a drop-off. The new assistant. You know, she’s a… a promising young lady. Don’t make promises you can’t keep. And keep your hands off Ms. Thomas, please. She is sweet, smart and indispensable. And what? I’m the Big Bad Wolf? We don’t need any more broken hearts. Gotcha. And for the record, um, Eva’s just a friend. My real interest lies… …elsewhere. Did your chief give you clearance to run into that building when the roof was about to collapse? If I wait for approval, someone could die. That someone could be you, Derek. What if you’d been killed?

I wasn’t.

Why would you risk it? That’s the job. I put out fires, I rescue lives. People and, if it works out that way, animals. You know that. W-Why are you acting like this? It’s not like you to take crazy chances. Something’s eating at you. I can tell. You’re weird. [scoffs] Oh, is that your medical diagnosis? I-I’ve got terminal weirdness? Something’s off with you. If I need a shrink, I’ll call Dr. Nicole. Just be my girl. Nothing’s wrong. I was doing my job and I love what I do. Same way you feel about nursing. I’m careful, Ashley. You still haven’t answered my question about that thing you said when I said what Andre did was nice and you said, “If you say so.” What did that mean?

[phone buzzes]

[sighs] This is Ashley. Yeah, be right there. That thing I said was nothing. Get back to the job you love so much. Get some rest.

I’ll check on you later.

Okay. So, what’d you think? You make a mean coq au vin. I-I actually have a confession to make.

Should I worry?

I didn’t make the dinner. My parents cooked it. [chuckles] I was worried it was gonna be something serious.

Like what?

Yo no sé. “Tomas, you don’t hate Bill Hamilton, so I poisoned the chicken.” [laughs] “Tomas, I’m being transferred to Los Angeles, and this is the last time you’ll see me.” Oh, so, you’re worried this might be our first and last date? Wait, are you saying this is a date? Almost. Well, we had dinner and drinks, good conversation and a hint of chemistry. Hmm. What’s missing? Well, for this to truly be a well-rounded date, it has to end with a kiss. Mm-hmm. Why do we have to wait until the end? ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ You look like you’re thinking about something. I was just wondering, if your kitchen is the size of a stamp, how big is your bed? Mm. You’d be surprised. I like surprises. Not tonight. Meaning we’ll have a next time? I think your chances of date number two are very, very good. But maybe after another confession. Let’s hear it. I’ve never, um…

you know…

Cooked? That’s no big deal. Look, you’re not making this easy. No, this is fun. You’ve never… dated an attorney? Oh, I’ve dated a couple. But fully dressed, w-with no briefs of any kind. [chuckles] That’s a good one. No briefs? You mean you’ve never… Never ever? [laughs softly] Huh. Does this other interest have a name? I think you have the wrong idea about me,

and the depths of my heart.

[laughs] A lothario with a heart of gold? Good luck with that. Get me those proofs. I’m on it. If it isn’t Mr. Van Der Zee.

Ah, she knows her photographers.

Mm-hmm. Hey, you think I could get a look at that video you did for Dr. Richardson and your Uncle Ted for her award ceremony?

So you heard about that?

Well, Dr. Nicole’s got a lot of fans around here. She’s always so quiet about the good that she does. We love seeing her get the recognition. Yeah, yeah– um, I got it in my phone if you have a second.

Really?

Yeah. Uh, yeah, I think I could spare a minute.

Sure.

Okay. Let’s see. Which one…

I think that’s yours.

Oh. [chuckles]

There you go, babe.

Thank you. Mm-hmm. So, what was your favorite part?

Of the honeymoon?

Mm-hmm. Well, I did enjoy waking up in that hotel overlooking the Spanish Steps with our own private terrazza.

Ooh, listen to you.

Mm. Oh, and what was the name of that church with the artwork? Oh… [chuckles] You gonna have to narrow that down, babe. The one with the scary mask outside? Scary? Oh, um…

El Bocca della Verità.

Yes. The Mouth of Truth in Santa Maria, where you didn’t want to put your hand in its mouth. [laughs] I was scared.

What if he’d bitten my hand off?

[laughs] Mm-mm. Mm. Legend says you can only get your hand chomped off

if you tell a lie while your hand is in its mouth.

Mm. Or if you’re just generally shady, but you’re the truest, most honest person I know, so… Mm. Well, I guess I just don’t like taking chances.

[both chuckle]

Now, I have clients who have difficulty extricating themselves, but you, Hayley Hamilton? Mm-mm. Never.

Mmm.

Well, what was your favorite part? Aside from being alone with you?

Mm-hmm.

Cashing in on that promise you made on our wedding night.

Bill Hamilton.

Girl. Ooh. Where’d you learn to do that? Oh, something I read, you know, but never got a chance to try.

Mm.

Did you enjoy your experience? Mm-hmm, and I can’t wait to get home

so I can experience it again.

Oh. Well, why wait? Isn’t there a limousine version of the Mile High Club? Hayley. Oh, another new adventure? But you said you don’t take chances. Oh, something’s telling me that this will be worth it. Hmm. I know you can’t see through that screen up there, but, um, is it soundproof? We’ll keep it down.

Oh, okay.

Mm-hmm.

Mm.

Yes. [laughs] [both moaning] The 1992 Chateau de la Colere Cabernet Sauvignon. Bill and I had a bottle of you at our wedding, too. The effort and energy he put into acquiring you… Not to mention the expense. Chased you halfway around the world. Same way he did with me all those years ago. Relentless. Even had you delivered to our new home via special messenger. I always thought I’d open you after he won a landmark case or… on our 50th anniversary. But now I say, why wait to celebrate? Mmm. Mmm. Not bad, ’92. Not bad at all.

Mmm.

[doorbell rings] I wonder who could be at the door at this hour. One of your kids lost their keys? Or it’s one of their kids. Ms. Rowena let me in.

Come on in, George.

Sorry to disturb you so late. ANITA: Is everything all right? Uh, yes, I was just doing my rounds and I noticed that the latch on your back gate was broken.

Now, I can fix it myself or I could…

No, I’ll call the handyman in the morning.

Okay.

Could I interest you in some dessert? Mmm, I wish I could, but I’m trying to watch my figure.

[chuckles]

Oh, we have plenty. Nicole was called to the hospital and Dani had an important business meeting. You mean Miss Used-to-be-Hamilton? But I just, uh…

Okay…

But what, George?

You’ve never?

Never ever.

You’re a virgin?

Yep. Wow. I mean, you’re so… You seem so…

Looks can be deceiving.

[laughs softly]

So I’ve heard.

[chuckles] That’s incredible. I’m not like a unicorn or anything. May I ask follow-up questions? I’ll decide when you’ve crossed the line. Shoot. Is this for religious reasons? Not really. Medical? Saving yourself for marriage? Right guy at the right time. I just haven’t met him yet. You have high standards. Well, when I meet the guy who’s worthy of getting to know me in that way, I’ll know. No rush. But, um… Some guys, when they hear that, they don’t know how to act. So, how about you, Tomas? Disappointed? I’ve had a wonderful night with a rare and inspiring woman. How could I possibly be disappointed? Oh, good, you’re still awake. Hey. Everything okay? Derek, I have something I need to tell you. Okay. I’m in love with Andre.

You’re what?

I’m so sorry I have to tell you like this, but I just couldn’t keep it a secret anymore. You’re serious? Yeah. She said she wanted to break the news before we took it to the next level. Got a great girl. Well, had. Wait a second. Ash, baby, talk to me. We’re moving in together. Yeah, we’re gonna adopt a cat. Andre picked the name. Yeah. We’re gonna call him Derek.

Isn’t that the cutest thing?

[chuckles]

ANDRE: No, you are.

ASHLEY: No, you are.

You are.

[chuckles] [gasps] [panting] Oh, my gosh, Andre, this video is incredible. It’s amazing. You’re amazing. Andre.

Were you about to kiss me?

[scoffs] Uh… Do you have something to tell us about Dani, George? George? Uh, well, I was, um… [stammers] Well, no, I was just surprised that she had a meeting at this hour. It’s getting late, that’s all. Well, it’s a part of our unofficial family motto. We can rest in the afterlife. [all laugh] Are you sure I can’t offer you some dessert? Uh, I would love to, but work calls, so…

Always good to see you, George.

Thank you. And thank you for keeping Fairmont Crest safe. You know, my beautiful 1992… I don’t know which one to blame more. My ex. Or the viper. [gasps] I have the perfect solution. They can both share. [sighs] Mrs. Hamilton is full of surprises. Mm, well, you’ve had your share of run-of-the-mill vanilla. It’s nothing wrong with a little rocky road

to keep you on your toes.

[both laugh]

And we’re just getting started.

Yeah. Mm. Oh. [stammers] I think we’re almost, what, more than halfway there, I think. You know, I know we were only gone for a few days, and I loved our honeymoon, but… There’s no place like home.

Mm, yes.

[both laugh] I’m so ready. [sighs] DANI: Ugh! Well done, Chateau de la Colere. [laughs] Oh. [laughs] It’s gonna be a million-dollar hangover, but it was worth it. You’re too good for Bill Hamilton. And frankly, so was I. Let’s drink to us. Mmm. Mmm. Oh, God. [sighs] Just a little disco nap. Mmm. Yeah. [sighs] [moans] That wasn’t my idea. I literally… Save it for someone who doesn’t know what you are. I don’t want anything that belongs to you. [scoffs] Please. Just my life and everything in it. So what is it this time?

It’s Ashley.

Andre. I don’t typically go for girls who already are attached. Where does that come from? I can’t do this. We weren’t meant to be together. We should call this thing off. You need to let that go. Would you care to explain why you’re trying to tell me what to do? You want me to sue my father’s firm? You think you have that in you? I want this so bad, I could taste it. Don’t try me again, Dani. You don’t want to see what happens when you do.

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Beyond The Gates Transcript

Transcript provided by Suzanne and Thane

THIS STILL NEEDS EXTENSIVE EDITING!

Here’s one thing that never changes. The aroma of down-home cooking?

That’s right.

[chuckles] You and Orphey Gene’s are my constant stars. But we’re not usually here in tux and gown. [chuckles] True. I wanted to make sure you had a good meal in you. We can’t have you singing Nicole’s praises and forgetting to eat. Tonight is a big deal. I’m so proud of Nicole. Following in her father’s footsteps, receiving the Distinguished Service Award. She deserves it. And so much more. Mm-hmm. Which is why you need sustenance to bring your A game of proud mama. [both chuckle] I’ll tell you a secret. It’s nice to come from behind the gates every once in a while.

It’s the real world out here.

Mm-hmm. Our roots. But you sure look good in that tux. And you, my dear– love of all loves, mother of my daughters– you look positively radiant. Food’s coming. Be sure to eat up. ♪ ♪ ♪ I have some regrets♪ [mouthing] ♪ ♪ [people chuckling] There you all are. And looking smashing.

What a great night, yeah?

Yes.

Hi. Mwah.

Hi.

Hi. You look beautiful.

Hi, baby. What are you doing? Just checking my notes for tonight. You look beautiful, Dani. Thank you, sweet Jacob. Chelsea, baby, can you turn around? Really? Just… Wait. Um, where are Gran and Granddad? Aren’t they coming with us? Uh, they are still at dinner. But no rush. It is early. Okay, now let me look at both of you.

Gorgeous. I mean…

Mm-hmm!

Stop. You might just upstage the award winner. But nobody in this room would do that, because we all realize this is Aunt Nicole’s night. Well, I don’t know. I might give it a shot.

I mean, look at me, you know?

Naomi, honey, don’t worry. I wouldn’t think of upstaging the honoree. Besides, Nicole asked me to be her emcee. And because I love my sister to pieces, I am going to make sure that this evening is a huge success.

Good. I like that.

Sounds good. Okay, now, there’s snacks on the counter. Help yourselves. I’m just gonna go give my eyes a quick touch-up.

Okay.

Great, thank you. Yep. Oh. Congressman Richardson. I didn’t expect you to be here. I’m Eva.

Eva Thomas.

The temp who’s replacing Laura. My parents have been singing your praises. Uh, I like them, too. They’ve been really good to me. Apparently, you’re nearly a part of the family now. Just trying to do a good job. Actually, that’s why I’m here. To see if there’s anything Ted and Nicole need before the awards gala tonight. Great minds. That’s why I came by, too. That’s amazing. I-I mean, you’ve got to be crazy busy with all the work you’re doing on education reform and infrastructure. And you took the time to come. Wait, you’re into politics? Some. And your career…

Yes?

You’ve come so far to be so young. And being raised by this high power couple. Uh, were you ever intimidated? [chuckles] Not even close. Mom and Dad never came off like that here at home. They never pushed me or Kat, but we’re both pretty ambitious, so… I guess it’s in the genes. Anyway, Dad told me they’re good, so I better get back to my place and get dressed for the big event. Good meeting you, Eva. Same. Thanks, Congressman. Call me Martin, okay? Eva? What is it with you and photos of my family? Now, before dinner, our guests will mingle while we serve cocktails. Many will barely sit, so keep your elbows in and the drinks flowing. Tonight will be pivotal for the club since Dr. Nicole Richardson, one of the community’s most prominent and well-loved members is being honored. Everything must go off without a hitch. Understood? I understand completely. Good. ♪ ♪ What are you two doing? Just giving Eva grief about her interest in our family photo. [chuckles] The day I gave birth to you your father was the same as now: nowhere to be found. Uh, I’m sorry. I can’t help it. I just met Martin. He’s like a rock star.

[laughs]

I hope you didn’t tell him that. There’ll be no living with him. I don’t mean to hold you up. I just came to check in. Is there anything else you need for tonight? I think we are all set. Ted, your tie. I just have to put my dress on and then we can head to the club. Um, it was so sweet of you to come by, though, Eva. You should go get ready. Will you need a ride? Um, no. I-I mean, I thought I’d be helping out behind the scenes, but since you don’t need me… But I always planned for you to be there as our guest. Really? Uh, I’m… I’m sorry, I-I can’t. I don’t belong there with you guys. And please, no small talk.

You are here to serve.

Yes, sir. Your only job is to make sure that this evening is a night the community will remember. I promise to do my part. I can’t believe I let this fall through the cracks. Everyone who works for me is invited. Mona would certainly be there if she hadn’t gotten sick. I just never thought… This night wouldn’t have come together if not for you. You handled everything– the venue arrangements, the seating charts. But sitting at your table? I feel like a party crasher. How could you possibly? You’re worried about a dress, aren’t you? Well… You are about the same size as Kat.

Go borrow something of hers.

But she’s out of town and I don’t feel comfortable going into her… No need. She’s got a closet upstairs, second room on the left, where she stashes her non-current wardrobe. Pick out a dress and make yourself gorgeous. Guess I better go check out Kat’s closet. Nicole’s right. It is crooked. Uh, I can fix it for you. I used to work at a department store once. Have at it. He abandoned us before you were even born. That was forever ago. People can grow and learn from their mistakes. You’re right. You need to learn from mine. Because trusting Ted Richardson was the biggest mistake I ever made. Well, that was delicious.

So good.

[chuckles] Always is.

Oh, yeah.

Anita Dupree?

Yes?

Oh, my… Uh…

You are my favorite singer.

Oh, excuse me.

Thank you.

Bernard Dupree. [conversation continuing indistinctly] I didn’t expect to hear from you. Say that again. How was your tennis clinic? Shoogy. Rather be playing Fortnite. That’s cause you’re a klutz. Mine slapped. Are we speaking the same language? What took you guys so long? Don’t worry. You have plenty of time to get ready for your grandma’s big party. And I reserved a suite upstairs you can use to change. Hey, you guys. I know you could have been doing anything tonight– hanging with friends or whatever. It means a lot that you’re here with your grandmother instead. I mean it. I love you guys. Uh-oh. Pop’s getting sappy. It’s chill. We never get to see him sappy. Can we go? Yeah, go. You know, I’m glad we had it out about me going back to work. Because you won that argument? That, and… I think the four of us bouncing it around helped clear the air. I think that we’re closer because of it. Yeah. I think so, too.

Champagne?

No, thanks. [screams] Naomi!

What in the world?

Is this what you meant when you said tonight’s all about Aunt Nicole? Because this does not remotely look like it. You better slow down. Don’t cops have to watch their weight

or something?

Don’t models? No, my mother does that for me. [chuckles] Okay. Mama, why do you keep doing this to yourself? Obsessing over pictures of Dad and Hayley on their honeymoon? It’s like you’re a junkie for pain.

[door opens]

They’re married now. That is a fact that is not going to change. Amen. And last I checked, we have an important affair to attend this evening. One with no drama on the program. Are we all on the same page? Yes. I want this to be a great night for Nicole. Too bad Kat had to go out of town. Oh, I’m sure Nicole will understand. And we’ll all be there to support her. Shall we? Oh, I’ll lock up. I’ll-I’ll be right behind you. [quiet, indistinct chatter] Oh, the women in my life and their fascination with mirrors. Why is it that my wife and my daughters are always picking and priding at their faces in the mirror when they’re already perfectly perfect? Hey, you’re the plastic surgeon. We get it honest. Richardson women have got to serve at all times, so get used to it. I am getting used to it. Just like you calling me “Dad.” And that is my most treasured title. Thank you for telling me the truth about who you are. I’m sorry it took so long for me to say something. I kept trying to find the perfect moment. And I was scared to death of offending Nicole. Your timing and delivery were perfect. No big show or fanfare. Just a quiet chat with family. Where Kat nearly fell off her chair. And she quickly embraced you, as did the rest of the family. Everyone loves you, Eva. And finding out that you were one of ours made everything perfect. Now, I’m gonna spend the rest of my life proving to you… …how much you mean to me. How? First, I’m going to call you every day,

Mm-hmm?

then I’m gonna spoil you at Christmas. I’m looking forward to it. I love you. EVA: I love you, too, Dad. Mama, I’m headed out. Not sure where you are, but I hope you’re having a great night. Nicole, you gonna be late for your own celebration. What’s taking so long? Oh. Do I look all right? All right? All right, all right, all right. I take it that’s a yes. Here’s how you should take it. Let’s take some of the formal out of the air and maybe just stay here.

Mm…

Mm… Oh, bad idea. You’re already making me want to stay home. Guess we have to go, huh?

Mm.

Well, on the bright side, there’s a room full of adoring fans and colleagues that are waiting to sing your praises and give you a standing ovation. Geez, it’s a dirty job, but I guess

somebody’s got to do it.

Mm. Come on. Wow, you two clean up pretty well.

Okay, boomer.

I beg your pardon. That is “Okay, millennial” to you. TYRELL: Whatevs. Andre. What’s good, my man? It’s your world. You tell me. Uh, we were just about to go inside. Oh, I heard you made a video of Grandma. I did. But your grandmother’s great, so it was easy to do. Can’t wait to see it. Want to go in now? Uh… After you. Excuse me. My party’s on the far table. Would you mind coming and taking our drink order before the rush? Not at all. I’ll be right there, sir. Thank you.

[whispering]: Mama?

Shh! You said you were staying away. And what’s with the wig? Excuse me, Sherry. I’ll help this young lady. I believe the congressman needs you at his table. Right away, sir. Now, what can I get you? Uh, the guest of honor– I’m her assistant. Um, and the minute Nicole Richardson walks through that door, I need to know. Yes, ma’am. I thought we agreed we weren’t gonna do this tonight. Now, you were gonna wait for the DNA results from that straw I swiped, and you were gonna stay home. And miss all this grandeur and opulence? What a waste that would be. Really, Mama. Don’t you “Mama” me. Ted and Nicole cheated me and cheated you. That’s what you need to remember. This is about what you want. You want to get back at Ted. So it’s bad timing to do this now, when Nicole isn’t even the target. Just let them have their stupid night. Where’d you get that outfit? Uh, Ted and Nicole gave me money to pick up something from the department store. I’m working. I basically put this whole thing together, so I had to be here. But you need to get out before Ted and Nicole see you. I’m not going anywhere. I’m working too, boo. Temp job for the night just happened to be here. This is really a coincidence? You’re just gonna serve apps and drinks and not trash the guest of honor? Hey there, Eva. Running into you is beginning to be a thing. May I get you something to drink, sir? Uh, not yet, thanks. If you need anything, I’m happy to serve.

Where are Ted and Nicole?

Hey… I thought they’d be here by now. Stop. All right? Now, look around this room at what you helped make happen for my aunt. Take it in.

Yeah?

It really is beautiful. Yeah. Now, that’s a picture. Hey, peeps. Andre. We are so looking forward to what I know is going to be a fabulous tribute video. Well, that means a lot coming from the queen of class. Oh. [laughs] Nicole was a wonderful subject. I’m sure she was. Uh, both in the video and in the photos. See for yourself. Oh. That dress is everything. I would love to see you out of it. You have.

How quickly they forget.

[short chuckle] EVA: I was starting to get worried.

We’re not late, are we?

Not at all. I just want everything to go well. You look beautiful. And you look amazing. Great choice. Thanks. Kat has great taste. You sure it’s okay I borrowed it?

Positive.

Okay. Well, I better go and make sure everything’s ready for later. DANI: Come on. Let’s… Everyone, let’s take a photo. ♪ Love you, oh my♪ ♪ Said I love, love to have a good time♪ ♪ Said I love, love, love you, oh my♪ ♪ Till the end of time♪ ♪ Oh, yeah♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ Said I love, love, love you oh my♪ ♪ Said I love, love to have a good time♪ ♪ Said I love, love, love you, oh my♪ ♪ Till the end of time♪ ♪ Oh, yeah.♪ ♪ ♪ Listen, I heard about the perfect gig for your better half. I’m not sure Smitty’s in the job market. It’s investigative reporting for a pretty big news site. Well, sounds great, but Smitty’s focused on other things. There’s no point to even bothering him with it. You sure about that? He’s talked about getting back in the game, but I don’t think he’s that serious. Well, you know better than I do. Just thought I’d ask. Thanks, man. Did you really think I wouldn’t find out? All right, you all should grace the cover of magazines. Oh, keep talking. Keep talking. Nicole, sweetheart, we are so thrilled for you and so proud of all of your accomplishments. I am about to emcee the heck out of this program. Tonight is all about you, your big heart and everything that you’ve done for the hospital. What Mom said. Plus, nobody could have a better aunt.

We love you, Auntie.

Hear, hear, sis. Thanks, everyone. Well, we should go inside before I miss my own celebration. Oh, my nerves. You just need a drink. So, you go down and sit with everyone inside

and I’m gonna grab us a couple.

Okay. Excuse me, miss, I wonder if I could get a… You.

Hey!

What the hell are you doing here? Working. Clearly, you need an eye exam, Doctor. My eyes are fine. What’s not fine is that you’re working here or pretending to be. Tonight. [short chuckle]

Of all nights.

Afraid I’m gonna mess up your little soiree,

Teddy?

I warned you to stay away from my wife. And I thought about it. I did. But then I decided you don’t get to tell me what to do. For one brief, delusional minute, what you wanted mattered to me. But that’s over.

You’re such a…

A hard worker. I am, yes. Listen up, Teddy boy. A job is a job, and this one preys pretty well. It’s a stunt. Just like the one you pulled on that roof that night. But why? Mm. That was a good night. And your wife is such a great listener. And you– [laughs] Oh, the way you got all worked out when you realized I’ve come back to haunt you.

Ooh! [chuckles]

I warn you, if you do anything to mess up my wife’s celebration… What? You’ll do what– destroy me? Been there. And survived that. Toddle along, Teddy boy. I’ve got a room to work. [chuckles] Ted. I thought you were grabbing us some champagne. Sorry, slipped my mind. Got a call about a patient. Granddad, what’s going on? I may not be a senator any longer, but I am still on top of everything– and I mean everything– political in this town. Especially if it involves a certain bored congressman who’s itching to blow up. By that I mean run for president. How did you even know I… Damn it, Martin. You start putting out feelers for the kind of money it takes to run a national campaign, word gets around. Granddad, I wasn’t trying to keep it from you. I was just looking for the right time to tell you. You know how much I value your experience and opinion. Don’t shine me on like one of your donors. I’m not. Really. I thought you would be happy to hear. Thrilled, even. Thrilled? Have you lost your ever-loving mind? I think I would make a good president. You don’t? Not the point. No candidate, especially a Black candidate, could ever withstand the kind of fallout that would come from people learning your secret. That’s been buried deep for a very long time. You have never seen the kind of scrutiny you’ll experience if you announce your intention to run. [short chuckle] Clearly, you don’t get it, Martin. Your arrogance has replaced your common sense. And that, my boy, will be your undoing. So, I appreciate it. Hey, where’d your pop go? He’s over there with Great-Granddad. SAMANTHA: That’s sus. TYRELL: Yeah. Looks like they’re fighting.

Carlton!

Glad you could make it.

Thank you so much

[scoffs] for covering for Ted on that emergency surgery. That’s what partners are for. There’s no way I’d let him miss tonight. You must be exhausted. You’re so sweet to come. Where are you sitting?

Come join us at our table.

It is just me, and I’m perfectly fine being another admiring face in the back. You enjoy your night. Mm. [chuckles] Here we go. Mission accomplished. Cheers. Smitty. Hope you’re enjoying your evening.

Thank you.

Mm. Remember what I said. Is everything okay with your granddad?

He seemed off.

All good. He just wants everything to go well for Mom. You know how he micromanages. How are the kids? Having fun? All is well here, I see. May I have everyone’s attention, please? Thank you, everyone. Can I say, you all look marvelous. This crowd cleans up really well. [laughing] For anyone who doesn’t know, I am Dani Dupree. [whooping, cheering] And I am delighted to serve as mistress of ceremony for tonight’s big bash honoring Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson, my big sister. Now, one of the reasons I am so delighted to present Nicole with the Distinguished Service Award is because I have spent my entire life in awe of her. Now, don’t get me wrong. I never aspired to a life of service. There’s no way I could have been a psychiatrist, especially one as singular and exemplary as my sister. Though many people think that I belong on her couch. But I digress. Now, anyone who knows me knows that I can go on and on and on about myself, but I promise to keep the attention where it should be: on my amazing, talented, generous and annoyingly perfect sister, Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson. Give it up for Nicole. [cheering, whistling] Can I get you something?

Sherry Carter. My goodness.

[Dani continuing her speech]

What are you doing here?

LESLIE: Working. When I got this catering job, I didn’t realize that you were the guest of honor. I am glad to see you doing better, Sherry. LESLIE: Not to interrupt, but I just wanted to make sure I thanked you for helping me on the roof that night. And pushing me. Ooh, sorry. [chuckles] Bad choice of words. Encouraging me to take more control of my life. And it looks like you’re turning things around. Yeah, wish I could get up there on that podium and just tell everybody what’s on my heart. So much. You have no idea. DANI: The way she cared. Not just for her patients, but for everyone. LESLIE: Well, anyway, I’ll let you get back to your big night. DANI: She believed everyone deserved to feel understood. It’s time to get on with the rest of the program. And I cannot think of a better way to do that than to bring up Dr. Richardson’s father and mine, too. A man you all know and love. Former senator of this wonderful state, the honorable Vernon Dupree. [whistling]

What was that?

What was what? You and Nicole talking. Oh, you mean me working, doing my job and asking if she needed a drink.

Don’t be coy.

Oh, listen to you– “coy.” Oh, all these uppity people have gotten to you already,

haven’t they, baby girl?

I mean it, Mama. You got to go. You lucky you haven’t already ruined your big plan. You need to get out of here before it’s

too late.

Leave me alone, Little Miss Big Shot. I’ve got drinks to serve. My heart is bursting thinking about my eldest daughter, Nicole, who she’s become, the hundreds of people that she’s helped. I believe the politics gene skipped a generation for a reason. Politics is a rough occupation, sometimes brutal. Nicole, on the other hand, is gentle, has always been openhearted, dedicated to serving people, one-on-one, helping them find themselves, forgive themselves, if need be. No one is more deserving of this accolade than our dear Nicole. And I want to thank each and every one of you for coming out tonight to share in our family’s pride. But, of course, I’m not the, uh, elegant and glamorous Dupree you all dying to hear. I think it’s time for me to bring my better half up to the podium.

Anita Dupree.

[whistling, whooping] She was only a toddler when she started helping other children. Mad at your parents? Ask Nicole to help. Problems with your homework? Ask Nicole to tutor you. She is and continues to be a wonder. But, of course, I dote. But this last thing I really want you to hear. These accolades, these laurels are not because my daughter is a Dupree. It is because my daughter is caring, unwavering in her desire to lift others up. She is one of the kindest human beings I know. TED: Raising children with Nicole has been an unparalleled delight. The same painstaking care that she pours into her career she pours into our family. And I am still in continual awe of how she’s able to balance it all. And she still remains the same compassionate human being that y’all have come to know and love. My sister Kat continues. “Unfortunately, I can’t be with you all tonight, “but I am sending mad love “and all props and praise Mom deserves. “If I’ve inherited anything from “Dr. Nicole Richardson, “it’s her work ethic. “As a businesswoman, “I am as dedicated to meeting “and exceeding my goals as Mom is to her practice.” Mom has always been our champion. Someone who taught us that our dreams can be pursued. That no aspiration can go unattainable. [applause] And now we have a very special treat from world-renowned photographer, videographer, cousin by marriage– keep it in the family, am I right– Andre Richardson. [applause] ♪ ♪ NICOLE [on recording]: For those of you who don’t know, this is my brilliant plastic surgeon husband, Dr. Ted Richardson. TED: Hello, everyone. I’m honored to be included in this tribute to my remarkable wife. NICOLE: Ted and I went to an AMA conference. It was on Maui that year, when we were in med school. TED: Sunrises in Maui are magical. NICOLE: I’ve had many blessings come my way, but the one that I’m the most grateful for, the one that changed everything, was deciding to attend the conference on Maui, where I met the one and only love of my life. Ladies and gentlemen, it is now time for the woman of the hour to speak for herself. Please give it up for Dr. Nicole Dupree Richardson. With her nudging, I revisited watching my son walk down the aisle with his husband and the addition to our family of their two brilliant, talented children. That is a completely unbiased opinion. [all chuckle] Uh, I took the time to bask in the glory that is my determined, courageous daughter, Kat. I hate that she can’t be here with us tonight, but I am over the moon that she loves her work as much as I cherish mine. And if you would give me one last indulgence… Ted, would you please come up here? I couldn’t get through a single day without you, much less a moment this big.

GUESTS: Aw.

[applause] I will cherish this award, but it is impossible to imagine receiving it without the love and support of this amazing man, the father of my children, and still the love of my life.

[applause]

[whistling] I will cherish this award, but it is impossible for me to imagine receiving this award without the love and support of this amazing woman, the mother of my child and the love of my life. [applause]

Come with me. Come with me.

What? What are you doing?

It’s okay. All right. All right. It’s okay.

I got to… But I’m-I’m…

Can you please…

I-I got to get people drinks.

What are you doing? I need to get back in there. Wait.

No. No. You are supposed to be working this event,

not attending it.

Okay, but people

still need drinks.

Look, I’m gonna have to ask you to leave. I’ve gotten complaints about you. Your behavior is unprofessional. I may have talked to one or two people, but that wa… And which I specifically told you that was not allowed. I also emphasized the importance of this event. Look, just… just get your personal items and go. Am I gonna have to call security to escort you out? N… No. Now, you can drop the uniform in the changing room when you pick up your things. Now, if you could all bear with me for one more moment… Family, would you please all come up here with me? Because without you, I truly would not be worthy of receiving this award. You are my foundation, my rock. Please come up. I want to thank you for alerting me to the issues with that server. It’s been handled. Thank you. My family, everyone. My universe, my everything.

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Beyond The Gates Transcript

Transcript provided by Suzanne and Thane

THIS STILL NEEDS EXTENSIVE EDITING!

Oh, thank goodness. What a day for my laptop to die. How is the symposium? I am now fully read in on the advances of psychopharmacology and very far behind on my to-do list for this award ceremony.

No worries.

Isn’t that Ted’s computer? I told him yours died, and he said to use this one until we can get yours fixed. Eva, you are a marvel. Now, if we could just get someone here to arrange a hard copy of the draft of my speech. I thought you might need it. I am upgrading you from marvel to godsend. I hope you won’t mind me saying this, Nicole, but you seem a little tense today. It’s this award ceremony tomorrow. It is getting on my penultimate nerve. Is there anything I can do to help? I know I’m new, but I’m happy to do what little I can. Little? Eva, if you weren’t available and able to fill in for Laura, my office and schedule would be in complete chaos, leaving me no time to finish things like this speech. I don’t suppose you would like to take care of that, too? If you want. I’m glad to do it. I read through the draft and have a few ideas, but only if you’re interested. [elevator bell dings] All right. Stay just like that. Beautiful. Hey, partner. I’m not sure I can give you photo approval on those. Why not? You up in those scrubs– catwalk ready. But, hey, don’t take my word for it. Andre, how did you… ANDRE: It was tough picking only a few. You know, you might be the first person I’ve ever met who doesn’t have a bad side. Well, you grew up around Dani Dupree, so I know that’s not true. But these pictures, they’re… they’re fun, and… I love them. They’re stunning. Hey, that’s on the model, Ashley. Not the photographer. It’s yours if you want it. Just a little token. Well, imagine having so much talent that you could be this chill about a wonderful gift like this. I can see why you score all those glamorous photo shoots. [sighs] You know what I see looking at this? I see someone who’s at the very start of a wonderful journey. It makes me want to know who she’ll be and where she’ll go.

[phone rings]

Ah.

This is Ashley.

[clears throat]

Got it. Sorry.

Yeah. MAN [over P.A.]: Nurse Hugo to ICU. [elevator bell dings] Oh, my God. Wait, Derek. This way, this way. All right. ♪ ♪ You’re sure they said Bradley Smith? Yeah, that’s interesting. Hey, babe, I’m home. I’m in the middle of something. Another thrilling afternoon in the neighborhood. Big whoop of my day– they were out of the heirloom tomatoes at the supermarket but never fear, your husband went hunting, and I found some at the green market. So we can have the caprese salad tonight, just like you wanted. Or not. What’s wrong? I heard you’re still asking around about going back to work as a freelance investigative journalist. Do you take me as some fool, Smitty? [water pouring] Oh. Oh, Doug. This is a surprise. A man greeting his wife? In this particularly affectionate way. Yes, it’s been a minute since I saw you in this good a mood. Well, you better get used to it, Vanessa, because your sexy, romantic, husband… is back. JOEY: Spill it.

Just thinking.

Hmm. Well, it must be something pretty consequential if you come to Orphey Gene’s and your mind’s not on the food. I’m just wondering about the way you handle your clients.

You filing a complaint, Randy?

Hell no, Joey. Working for you is the best gig I’ve ever had. It’s just that you’re so good at reading clients. How do you zero in and pull just the right string? Well, with gamblers, it’s simple. There’s only one: the need to gamble. Makes you wonder if gambling really is better than sex. I wouldn’t know. I haven’t got laid in a while. Well, I hope you’re not coming to me to remedy that situation. No need.

I’m being selective.

Which goes to my point. You can do without. You’re not addicted. Some gamblers, throwing the dice is better than food, than sex– almost any pleasure imaginable. I don’t get it myself. I’ve never had an addictive personality. But you sure are good at manipulating them, aren’t you? Oh, you’re, uh… You’re referring to your old buddy Dougie. [laughs] He actually hates being called that. Ever since– Did I say anything to indicate that I give a damn what Dougie prefers to be called? I didn’t think so. The man’s name matters as little to me as the man himself. Then why are you so concerned about what he does? I’m not. Dougie doesn’t matter to me. What matters is what he can get me. Ooh, what about… Scratch that. You’ve probably written hundreds of speeches and don’t need my two cents. Eva, I’m enjoying this. Yes, this speech was fine before, but your input is helping me think outside the box. What were you thinking? Here. Maybe say more about how your parents inspired you. Wouldn’t that just make it another speech about the great Vernon and Anita Dupree?

I guess.

What would you do instead? Maybe I’d talk about the hard times. If you had any. Yeah, we had them. Lots of arguments and tears. It’s still too tender to talk about publicly. [clears throat] You and Ted are such a unit. It’s hard to imagine you guys arguing about anything. Ted is pretty even, funny, kind. But that man will throw down if he is fighting for the well-being of his family or his patients. What kind of thing makes him angry? Consistently? Lies. If you want to stay on Ted Richardson’s good side, never, ever lie to that man.

Hey, how’s he doing?

Doctor’s in with him now. He regained consciousness, but that’s all I know.

What happened, Liam?

We thought people were still in the burning house, but he would not wait for confirmation. Then the ceiling came down and knocked him out. We had to drag him out of there. I’m gonna update the team, okay? All right. Hey, hey, he’s gonna be okay.

I don’t know about that.

What did the doctor say? I have to be careful of Derek’s privacy. Yeah, but whatever he told you, it scared you. Concerned me. Okay, according to Liam, Derek got slammed on the head. Yeah? So logically, concussion. Yeah. And in that case, he might be out for a couple of days, but most likely fine after that. Well, thank you for that diagnosis, Mr. Not-a-Doctor Richardson. I may know next to nothing about medicine, but… I know way more than I would like to know about the worst happening. From when you lost your folks. Yeah, take it from someone who’s been through it. Don’t go there, Ashley. Derek is here. He’s conscious and he’s getting excellent medical care.

Hold on to that. Hmm?

Mm-hmm. [indistinct P.A. announcements] Okay. Um… I got to meet my aunt, or I would stick around. I’m glad you’re here to help calm me down.

It’s getting to be our thing.

Yeah.

I’ll see you later.

Yeah. Oh, the collage. I almost forgot,

in the middle of everything.

No, don’t worry about it. Um, I’ll have Shanice stash it someplace for you.

Thanks. That’d be great.

Yeah, go.

See you later, partner.

All right. [door closes] [softly]: Hey. Hey, babe. Hi. Why do you look upset? If I were in the hospital, how would you look? Oh, right. Hospital. What happened? Burning building. A ceiling fell on you. Oh, that explains the headache. Yeah, well, they just gave you something to relieve that. It should start working soon.

[sighs]

I’m just glad they got you up here so fast from ER. Yeah, they… They try to move things along with firefighters. Well, probably because they know when one of you is injured, it’s got to be serious. Yeah. [sighs] [labored breaths] I’m in the hospital. What happened? Concussion. CT scan confirmed it.

The rest of my team’s okay?

All good. God, I can’t remember anything about the fire. It’ll come back to you. I– I think I rescued a cat. Okay. No, for real. There was a cat there. Unless… Did– did I fall on him? [chuckles weakly] I don’t think so. Can you check? Sure. So nothing I said the other day had the slightest impact on you? Of course it did. But as much as I love you, Martin, I have to do what’s right for me, too. Even when what’s right for you hurts everyone you claim to love? Who’s supposed to be taking care of our children when you’re sticking your nose in places where it could get cut off? You mean the two near adults who barely say two words to us on a daily basis? Our children can pretty much take care of themselves. Time out, you two. Pop, Dad’s right. You haven’t been this cheerful and carefree in a long time. In fact, the gloomy way you’ve been going around, I was beginning to worry about you. Nessa, baby, there’s no need to worry. Everything is fine, and getting better all the time. [laughs] I’m glad to hear it. Well, not as glad as I am to be spending a little time with my wife. [chuckles] Is something wrong? Oh, no, it’s just… that woman over there ordered something really interesting. I might have what she’s having, once I’m done working out.

Mm.

[chuckles] Joey, you got all kinds of people on your string who can get you whatever you need. So, I’m curious. Why the sudden interest in some random cardiac surgeon? You looking for a new heart or something? A heart just gets in the way in my line of work. There are thousands of idiots out there who can’t push themselves away from the poker table. What is so special about Doug? That’s my business. Sure. Sorry. All right, you’ve been dancing around me all day looking for clarification. Here it is. I don’t give a damn if you and Dougie have been besties since the cradle. You need to stop giving a damn about what happens to him. As of now. What’s Pop stressing about now? This doesn’t concern you and Samantha, Tyrell. Oh, but it does, since you insist my decisions affect all of us. So, everybody, I have decided that I would like to go back to work. That’s it? That’s not even interesting. Do your thing, Dad. Chase that dream. Samantha, you don’t like when your dad’s around to take you wherever you need to go? Not when I can just get a car. Dad set up an account for us. And what about when Smitty is attending all of your debate competitions? He’s way more present than the rest. And I’m way past needing you guys there to cheer for me. It’s fine when you guys show up for stuff, but it’s not that serious. I-I mean, why are you so twisted about dad going back to work? I’m not twisted. Have you been discussing this with them? Absolutely not. This is pure them. No cap. We do get to have our own opinions. Yes, but you’re predisposed to pick Smitty’s side. Only when he’s right. Dad wanted to get back into his reporter hustle, just like you with politics. He’s into it, so why shouldn’t he get to do it? All of my friends’ moms and dads work. We’re not like your friends’ parents, Samantha. Uh, yeah, you are. I have two dads, Kayla has two moms. Jill has a single dad. Shawna’s got, like, six moms ’cause her dad’s always switching it up. [laughs] Nobody’s like everybody else. And you worry way too much about things that don’t matter anymore. I wish that were true. But you two have to understand that how people view you can impact your life. Oh, I-I get that. And if Samantha and I didn’t have Dad around while you were out there putting in mad hours campaigning… A lot of things would’ve been messed up. But we don’t need all that hovering anymore, Pop. We shouldn’t have to convince you when you’re representing families where every adult in the household is working. Why shouldn’t Dad have a life when the rest of us get to? What’s wrong with that? I cannot tell that story in public. Ted and I would die of embarrassment. But maybe if we trim this section? That will leave you room to talk about how you and Ted had to come back from vacation early because Martin was sick. [phone buzzes] Go ahead. You can take it. It’s nothing. I’ll call them back. So the Martin story will go here. Oh, my aunt, the psychiatrist, and her assistant chopping it up at the country club. I almost didn’t want to interrupt. Do not talk nonsense, Andre. You are welcome everywhere you go. ANDRE: Mm. Everywhere there’s a pretty girl, that is. That’s the kind of welcome I like. [laughs] As far as a pretty girl that is off-limits,

ANDRE: Mm-hmm.

you must have met my temporary assistant, Eva. Subtle, Aunt Nicole. And yeah, Eva and I have certainly had the pleasure. Nice to see you again, Andre. NICOLE: I apologize, Eva. Not only did I let the time get away from me, I forgot to ask you to put Andre on my calendar. We are gonna talk about the shots for the award ceremony. Do you have time later? Like in about an hour? EVA: You don’t have to cancel. But we’re working on the speech. She means she’s teaching me how to construct an effective speech. Um, I could do a markup, make the changes you want and email it to you. You’re stopping by the hospital later, right? Yeah, I can print it out there, but you don’t have to go through all that trouble. I’ve already taken up way too much of your time on something that’s not even your job. Making your life easier is my job, Nicole. And this was fun. Your nephew’s a witness. Oh, yeah. Seemed fun to me. Are you sure it’s not a problem? No problem. All right.

Uh, Andre, can you help me?

ANDRE: Uh, sure. NICOLE: Andre, let’s find the events manager, do a walkthrough, and Eva, I will find a way to pay you back for all of your help.

Bye.

All right. See you. [chuckles] Bye. [phone buzzing] Leslie, why do you keep calling me while I’m at work? I hate hearing you call me that. I want to be your mama again, at home and everywhere else. Soon. Now, what do you need? Nothing, really. Just want to make sure that everything is going like we planned. Everything’s fine. I’ll tell you all about it when I get home. Good. I can’t wait. But we need to remember the plan. [sighs] Delayed gratification is such a pain. Be patient. It’ll all be worth it. Those Richardsons won’t know what hit them. For my… amazing wife. Oh. Hydration is vital. You know, speaking of amazing… Well, speak on. As of this morning, I’ve sold four multimillion-dollar properties this month. Now, that is what I’m talking about. Congratulations, sweetheart. My commissions are gonna be through the roof this quarter. You certainly have the magic touch. [chuckles] I’d definitely buy anything you’re selling.

[phone buzzes]

[chuckles] Oh… And you know I’d always give you the very best deal.

Mmm.

[chuckles] I feel responsible. It was me who brought Doug to your place in the first– He would’ve found his way to my casino, with or without you. You know that. Yeah, but I never thought he would be this out of control. He’s my friend. I’m not trying to… interfere. But I’m asking you, Joey… …please don’t hurt my friend. Or worse. I have no reason to harm your friend, Randy. In fact, I think business runs more smoothly when everyone’s agreeable. He’s of no use to me unless he’s alive and functioning. He’s simply a means to an end. Now you got me all the way curious. What’s Doug got that you were– Enough with the questions. Unless you want me to reconsider my decision to treat him gently.

No, sir.

That’s what I thought. You want to protect your friend, do your job. Which means have him in my casino, tonight. Meal’s on you. Thanks. [Randy sighs] [sniffles] [phone buzzes] That’s not the hospital, is it? I feel like I’ve kept you here for a while. Nope. I just happen to have a rare free afternoon from surgeries and realized there was no place I would rather be than here with you. Really? Lately, you haven’t been inclined to spend more time with me than absolutely necessary. Then I am glad I have this opportunity to apologize. I’ve been a fool, Vanessa. I am sorry for giving you reason to doubt how much you mean to me. Whatever’s causing this change in you,

I like it.

[both chuckle] Well, I’d better get on with my workout before it gets too late and the adrenaline keeps me up all night. Oh, that doesn’t sound too bad to me. [chuckles] We’ll see how long this new Doug lasts back at home. Looking forward to it. Mm. [both chuckle] [phone buzzes] [sighs] [sighs] I’m in the hospital because I have a concussion. This will work, as long as I don’t lose this piece of paper. All right, well, I’ll write it down on the board across the room for you, too. And I’ll be here most of the time. But if I’m not, just buzz for a nurse. We’ll answer any question you have, as long as it takes. Do you need anything? Maybe you could stop moving around. It’s kind of making me dizzy.

Ha.

I’m just messing with you. But you really don’t have to try so hard, babe. I keep telling you, I-I’m fine. Do I tell you how to fight fires? Hmm. Can’t remember. Well, if you’re joking around, then you must be feeling better. I am. Another thing I keep forgetting… …is your name. You want me to write it down for you? I want to remember on my own. I just don’t want you to think– Hey. Memory lapses are a symptom of the concussion, Derek. Please, don’t stress about it. And besides, “babe” works. Just don’t call anybody else that. Never would. And when you’re all better, no more unnecessary risks. Don’t worry. I don’t plan on leaving you anytime soon. And t-this risk paid off. Guy said I saved a cat.

[chuckles]

Yeah, and it didn’t make it easy, look. Look at that. It’s probably gonna leave a huge scar. I’ll make sure to call for a plastic surgery consult. DEREK: Mm. Do I get a kiss at least? On your imaginary scar? I don’t think so.

Ashley.

Mm-hmm. I might forget again. I know how to remind you. [Ashley sighs] How about we take one assignment… …and see how it goes? And when it goes really, really well? Let’s take the win, Samantha. And let your pop off the hook. You three are everything I dreamed of growing up, but never thought I’d have. I would walk through fire for my family. One, two, three. The Richardsons! [laughter] SAMANTHA: Wait, are we actually–

[laughter]

Ow. [laughing] [elevator bell dings] And, um, so you’re giving me the go on those behind-the-scenes shots? Are you sure footage of me doing yoga isn’t silly? You recommend that for your patients, right? For their mental health? You know I do, but it’s different when it’s… It’s human, Auntie. It makes the great lady seem more approachable.

Great lady? Please.

Yeah. Oh, there’s Ashley.

Ashley, hi.

Hi. Andre told me what happened. Is Derek okay? So far, so good, Dr. Richardson. He’s with the attending now. And how are you doing? [sighs]: Uh… Well, a good friend told me to stop going to worst-case, so… not going there. It’s about time. Sorry. I had to stay late working on Nicole’s speech. Her what? You know how she’s being honored at that gala tomorrow night? Well, she kind of let me help with her speech. She really liked my ideas, Mama. So you trying to be a writer now? I’d never call myself that. But the speech was only part of it. Nicole had all these things on her to-do list that I got to help with. So her designer dress was getting altered and that needed to be picked up. And some shoes that was specially shipped. The local stores didn’t have her size. She got big feet or something? This gala is probably gonna be on the news, and I’m helping put it together. Sounds like you have good reason to be excited, Eva. I am, too. It’ll be spectacular. I hope so, because that’ll make it the perfect opportunity to expose Ted and Nicole for the reprehensible human beings they really are.

My lucky day?

Could be. Ready to throw some hands tonight?

Oh, you know it.

All right. Dr. McBride. Always a pleasure. As you can see, we have some high rollers in here tonight, and I think you are just the man to take their money. Sounds like it may be a little too rich for my blood. I think I’m gonna stick to my regular tables. Oh, that’s a disappointment. If it’s cash that’s bothering you, I’d be happy to front you. Really? You wouldn’t mind? It’s only money. Here you go. Don’t worry. I’m sure you’ll pay us back before you know it. [laughs]: Oh, my. I could use some expert help with a few muscles. Care to spot me? The lady’s not interested. Move along. Tell me, Vanessa, how many men is it gonna take to satisfy you? Coming on to random guys where you know I’ll clock it? Vanessa, what is your deal? You don’t own me, Diego. I see who I want when I want. Yeah, and that’s how you found out

nobody could do you like I can.

[laughs softly] No, you’re good. I’ll give you that. But I’m not looking for commitment. Not now. Maybe not ever. I bet I could convince you otherwise. Nice sitting in. I’ll catch you next time. Dr. McBride. How’s it going? Um, all tapped out. I’m sorry, Joey, I know you thought I’d get lucky, but… Well, don’t give up so soon. No choice. Out of money. I have faith in you. Now… now why don’t you give it another try? I-I can’t, this is…

this is, this is too much.

I have no problem staking you. We both know you’ll pay us back before you know it. Well… I have a feeling my luck is about to turn. Thanks, Joey. Hey. How’s the headache? Barely there. I’ll feel a lot better after they spring me from this place. Especially if you take me home with you. Well, we may have to put a pause on the hold care for now. They want to observe you here for at least another day, maybe longer. Can you be the one to nurse me back to health? At your bedside? In this bed, by my side? Not a chance, Superman. You are on official time-out. At least until you promise me that you’re not gonna try to kill yourself again. Cross my heart.

Unless there’s…

You better stop with the crossed heart if you know what’s good for you. You’re good for me. I know that. LESLIE: I’ve been thinking. We can’t just let this gala pass us by. Mama… Oh, it’ll be perfect, baby. Oh, we’ll spill all that Richardson dirt right there. Not just in front of the cream of Fairmont society. It’ll probably be on the local news, too. Imagine the looks on their smug faces. They’re not both smug. I mean, what my father did wasn’t Nicole’s fault. And this is celebrating her and not him, so there’s no reason for us to ruin her big day. No reason? Eva, has been working with that woman gotten to you? Of course not. It’s the timing, Mama. It’s too soon. It sounds like an excuse. Are you still committed to taking them down for what they did to us? And don’t you dare lie to me, Eva. Thanks for agreeing to me going back to work. One assignment, and we’ll see how it goes. One assignment, for now. Smitty. Why don’t you come upstairs so I can thank you? As enticing as that sounds, I have work emails to deal with. Are you trying to exhaust yourself so you don’t dream? No, just trying to get some work done. Okay. Don’t keep me waiting too long. If you’re going back on our plan to take down your father and his high-and-mighty wife, tell me right now. I’m not doing that. In fact, to prove how committed I am… This straw will give us a sample of Ted’s DNA for the paternity test.

Oh…

Just like you wanted. Oh, my sweet baby girl.

Mm-hmm.

Mm. This is the icing. Ruining his precious wife’s big night is gonna hit that bastard right where he lives. Oh, my God, and when he claims that I’m lying… [laughs] I can throw the truth… [imitates whoosh] right back in his face. Ooh, wait, Mama, we can’t do it at the award ceremony. Why not? I’ve got everything in place. Because the DNA test results won’t be ready by then. We want to get this right, right? It’ll be a better chance later. If that’s what you feel. Don’t worry, Mama.

We’ll see this through.

[laughs softly]

Soon.

Mm-hmm.

[laughs]

Soon. I need a favor. ♪ ♪ You love playing with fire. I love playing. With me. Until a better game comes along. [laughs softly] Must be tempting. Gambling, for me? Not at all. I’m talking about this compulsion you have to save your friend. You need to do what Dougie never does until after the fact. Consider the cost. And what I do to people who get in the way of my plans. And what’s the next plan? I’m gonna put that moron so far into debt he doesn’t know what hit him. [gasping softly] [grunting] No! No.

SMITTY: Martin.

No! [panting] I’m fine.

What’s going on?

SAMANTHA: I heard yelling. SMITTY: Nothing, kids, just… Just go back to bed. Go. You come to bed, too. I told you sleeping on the couch wasn’t good for you. I’m just doing my routine, double-checking the locks,

making sure my family’s fine.

Okay. Okay. Okay. Do your thing. But Martin, we’re safe. [footsteps receding]

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Beyond The Gates Transcript

Transcript provided by Suzanne and Thane

THIS STILL NEEDS EXTENSIVE EDITING!

Boss, you are dripping so hard, they’re gonna have to

put out a flood warning.

It’s not too much, is it? No, not for your big interview. I got you and Ted smoothies on my way in. Thank you, but can you put mine in the fridge? I don’t want to be late to my parents’ place for this interview, which is not that big. On television. Local TV, but I can’t leave before.

Have you seen my bracelet?

Your good luck charm? Yeah, I have a really bad habit of leaving it in the most random places.

I don’t really need it, but…

If you need it, you need it. You seem more on edge than usual. Is it that obvious? I’m just not as comfortable in the spotlight like my parents. You know, my mom with her decorated music career, my dad with his political activism. You with your achievements in mental health. You’re getting the same service award your dad did, Nicole. That’s major. Right. I should be proud.

Yes.

And less nervous, because most of the focus will probably be on my dad anyway. Him and your sister.

Mm.

Mm. How’d it go with Dani? Did you talk some sense into her? I reminded her that this interview was about Nicole and her award. You emphasized that we’d handle the difficult questions? Without coming right out and saying it, I tried to get across that we were concerned that she might lose her cool if put on the spot. Mm. Do you think she was listening? Well, of course, Daddy. Don’t I always? The reporters are here. I can let them in whenever you’re ready.

How long will this take?

Not long, babe. Okay? Come hell or high water, we’re going on our honeymoon tonight. Saw the setup for the press conference.

Good news on that libel case?

Mm-mm. I’m doing a bit of counter programming. The Duprees think that they’re slick by going on some local morning show acting like it’s about Nicole winning some award.

And it’s not?

Nah. They’ll use the opportunity to make more defamatory comments about Hayley and me, and I’m not about to let that slide. You’re only guessing that’s what this is about. And you know, it’s getting old, standing on the sidelines watching you battle with your ex-wife and her family. Let me know when you’re ready. Babe, this is about us, okay? I’m protecting you and our future from the Duprees’ character assassination gang. What, by instigating more trouble? Because this time, it will be you starting this, Bill. No, no, babe. I’m anticipating the inevitable, okay? Remember, I was a part of that family. I know how they think. They’ll see us leaving the country as their chance to seize the narrative, but I’m gonna flip the script before they even get a chance. ♪ ♪ You sleep okay?

No, not really.

Yeah, you must have heard me snoring from all the way on the couch. Tell me, was it more Chewbacca or Jabba the Hutt this time?

Jacob, I’m not in the mood.

Naomi, please. No, no. You knew better than anyone how I feel about my father and what he did to my mother, to our family. And you knew how hard it was for me to trust a man, any man, after being raised by Bill Hamilton.

And then you, you…

Did my job. You executed his sneak attack. That’s what you did. How do you expect me to trust you after that? Because right now, I don’t recognize the man that I married. [clears throat] Oh, good morning, Ted. Nicole just left. Yeah, I managed to give her a good-luck hug on her way out. Thanks for this. Sure. So what is it with that photo? Uh, everything’s right with it. I always wanted a brother or sister. Especially a sister. Someone to braid my hair, gossip with me about boys, get in and out of trouble with.

So you’re an only child?

As far as I know. Since I never knew my bio dad, I could have a dozen brothers or sisters who don’t even know I exist. It must be tough. And I’m sorry for opening up old wounds. Oh, don’t sweat it. I’m an open book. Ask anything you want. Send the reporters up now. Should be quite a show. Bill has a flair for drama. It’s what makes him a beast in the courtroom. The court of public opinion is a different beast altogether. Let’s hope it doesn’t backfire. Like it already has with Hayley?

Tomas.

Come on, Caroline. You picked up on it, too. And if that marriage blows up and throws Bill off his million-dollar game, it could tank this firm. And your upward mobility. Nothing wrong with looking out for mine. That’s worked for Bill. At least so far. Yes, you’re the expert on the Duprees, but do we really need to keep this tug-of-war going? Can’t we just drop the rope? Letting your guard down doesn’t work with these people, baby. Okay? Underneath all that faux gentility, they are as cutthroat as a razor. And until we make them understand that when you come for the king and his queen– mm– you best not miss. Well, can you promise me that this will at least be the end of it? Okay. Let me school them real quick. All right? Then we can start our happily- ever-after. Baby, trust me. I want this over just as much as you do. Okay? How do I look? Good?

Okay.

Yes. Believe it. No one is more eager to put this mess behind them than me. Then please let your mother and me handle it when it comes up. I am not prepared to go on camera. I’m so glad to hear that.

Hello, everyone.

Oh, Nicole, darling,

you look lovely.

Thank you, Mother. Dani, I wasn’t sure if I’d see you here. Do not worry, sissy. I am not here to steal your shine. Why do you keep making me seem like the villain? I did my job, same as always.

Oh, did you now?

Yes.

Yeah?

I made sure your mother was treated with respect. She had everything she needed right up until the moment they let her go. Oh, and do you want a gold star for that? Being polite to someone you wrongfully arrested doesn’t make you a hero, Jacob. Where’s Dani’s responsibility in all of this? Why do you keep skipping right past that? My mother was provoked into acting out. She never meant to hurt anyone. You know that. Oh, okay, so you’re excusing her for bringing a loaded weapon and firing it at a wedding? Oh, my God. She’s not some hardened criminal, Jacob. And as her top-notch lawyer, you would have brought up those mitigating circumstances in court. Because that’s your job, not the arresting officer’s. So what? You would have arrested Rosa Parks

if that was part of your job?

Come on, Naomi, don’t go there. It’s not the same thing. Because orders are orders, right? Your mother waving a gun around isn’t about fighting injustice. Then tell me, Detective, since it seems like that badge means more to you than that ring on your finger.

Would you have arrested me?

You’re unbelievable.

I’m also running late.

Naomi. My family needs me. And unlike you, I know where my loyalties lie. [door closes] Maybe we should start the interview in the garden. Listen, I understand why you might be skittish about what to expect from me. I can only imagine how mortified Mother must be. Her own daughter arrested in her own home

for attempted murder.

That must have been terrifying. I hate I wasn’t there to support you. Martin said you were kept at the hospital for some emergency. A woman was on the roof attempting to jump. No. I guess someone was having a worse night than me. [laughter] Hey, ladies. Well, someone’s in high spirits today. Well, she’s practically glowing. Oh, I’m just feeling myself getting to enjoy being out here

and living my best life.

Ooh. Okay. Quite a difference from just a few weeks ago. Yeah, I feel like I’m finally starting to recover from Alan’s passing. God bless his soul.

Did you meet someone?

[scoffs] I wish. Unfortunately, no new man yet. I just woke up feeling optimistic. That’s wonderful, Leslie. The future suddenly seems filled with possibilities, and it hasn’t been that way for a hot minute. [all laugh] Well, I hope this good mood of yours sticks around. Something tells me it will. So no one ever went looking for your biological father? I mean, Leslie’s always been good to me. And Alan, her husband, wasn’t exactly what you call fatherly, but he was okay. I mean, I wondered about my bio dad, but why push it if he already rejected me? I can see that logic. But if you were to ask me, it was his loss. Makes me think about what I missed out on. My nephew, he… took it rough after he lost his folks. Andre? I met him.

He’s nice.

Yeah. My brother and sister-in-law, they died in a plane crash years ago. And Nicole and I tried to jump in and fill that void, but you can never fill a void of a loss of that magnitude.

At least you tried.

Yeah, Andre’s situation forced me to think about my own kids and how they would feel if they lost me. My son is very close to Nicole’s father, so he’d have Vernon to lean on. Kat, you know she’s a daddy’s girl. She needs me. Guess a lot of people depend on you. I wouldn’t say that. But my offer still stands. If you ever need an ear or a laugh, Eva, you know who to call. I’ll keep that in mind. Oh, I should get to the clinic.

Oh.

Oh. I got this, Ted. Have a good day. You, too. ♪ ♪ Hi, guys. I peeped the Grands outside showing the hosts around. Tell me that’s not what you’re wearing for the interview. Oh, God, no. No, I am just here for moral support. The Grands want me to keep a low profile.

Wait, they’re excluding you?

It’s for the best.

[approaching chatter]

That’s my cue. [mouths] Linda, this is our daughter Nicole and our granddaughter, Chelsea. Hi. It’s a pleasure to meet you both. Naomi just texted. She’s on her way. Well, in that case, if you don’t mind, I’m going to go ahead and let my cameraman in. Okay. Good morning. It truly breaks my heart that it’s come to this, but over the past several months, I’ve made every attempt to resolve issues privately with my former wife. But you’ve all seen how that turned out. My wedding devolved into a horror show, and my beautiful bride Hayley and I have not had a moment’s peace since. And adding insult to injury, Ms. Dupree not only resorted to violence, but to malicious slander. Now, I’m a patient man. I really am. I’m a patient man. But soiling my name and reputation is something that I cannot let go unaddressed. So I’m prepared to answer any and all questions. I have nothing to hide. [all clamoring] No, I didn’t invite my ex-wife to my wedding to humiliate her. I was showing our daughters that as family, we can still treat each other with respect and dignity. I even invited some of Dani’s loved ones so she’d have emotional support and because I’d hoped that they could keep her in check. Now, Dani’s sister is a psychiatrist, and perhaps she should be re-evaluated since they’re all sadly in denial about how far my ex-wife’s mental state has deteriorated. Soon, Leslie won’t be the only one with something new.

[gasps] Do tell.

It’s my day off tomorrow. I’m going to the mall to get some much needed retail therapy. Mm. New attitudes all around.

I love it.

You deserve a moment. Honestly, I’m just looking forward to time away from all the constant Dupree chaos. Right? Who would have thought Bill would cause more trouble out of the family than he ever did in it?

Oh, my goodness. Look.

Mm. MONA: You have got to be kidding me. Excuse me, waitress, can you turn that up? LINDA: I’m sure Nicole is very proud to be following in your footsteps, Senator Dupree. I’m the one who’s proud. She’s accomplished so much. I think of my award as belonging to my father, too, and to my mother and all of their friends that continue to be active in civil rights. I could never have accomplished all I have in my life without the sacrifices that they made. Everything I am, I owe to them. Well, you do have another daughter who is in the news lately for a very different reason. There’s a viral video online of your daughter Dani threatening her ex-husband with a loaded gun at his wedding. She was later arrested on attempted murder, but those charges have been dropped. We have nothing more to say on that subject.

But…

As we stated before, we don’t condone Dani’s behavior, but we certainly understand what drove her to it. The cruel and unforgivable behavior of her ex-husband and his secret mistress, now wife. And that’s that. Next question. I have just been informed that Bill Hamilton is giving a press conference at this very moment, and he is alleging that your daughter Dani is suffering from mental deterioration. Do you have any sort of response to that? I can respond to that. Oh, my God. This is getting juicy. Attagirl, Dani. Give him hell! Let me tell you something about Dani Dupree. That woman had the audacity, the sheer gall to show up to my home unannounced like a raging bull. She came to threaten me, to berate my wife. After she had already destroyed and ruined our blessed day. That’s what pushed me to finally say, enough… …is enough. I was hurt deeply. But that does not excuse my actions. I am filled with remorse. My heart aches for all the pain I have caused. I am so… …arrogant. That’s what the Duprees are. They walk around like, like the rules don’t apply to them, like they’re above the law, God’s and man’s. And until they take some responsibility… I take full responsibility for my shameful behavior. When I think about the example I set for my precious girls, I am so ashamed. That is not how my parents raised me. It is a mistake that I will never make again. What’s to stop her from doing it again? Hmm? Dani Dupree is a manipulative serpent who wants to punish me for daring to find happiness. Happiness was a memory at that point. I never intended to hurt a soul. I was just filled with such pain. They shattered my world, and I wanted to ruin their day. Sounds… …petty and desperate jealousy turned Dani into a monster, a violent and dangerous… …threat to no one, least of all Bill and Hayley, after they showed such generosity in dropping those charges. I am filled with gratitude for that. And for my family.

So, you’re my new partner.

Marcel Malone. I’ve been looking forward to this. It’s not every day you get to break cases with a legendary detective. Well, you can start by getting my coffee. I take it black. I’m a cop, not an errand boy. You can fetch your own coffee. Good answer. But you forgot to address me as “Detective.” And that’ll be the last time you disobey an order. Okay, rookie? It’s a pleasure meeting you, too. Sorry to disappoint. Maybe you thought we’d become friends and do brunch, but here’s how it’s gonna go. You gonna keep your nose clean and out of my business. Otherwise, you gonna wish you never met me.

Any questions?

Just one. So when we hit the streets and play good cop, bad cop, I’m guessing I’m the good cop, right, Detective? ♪ ♪ I know it’s early, but after that performance, you’ve earned it. Thank you, sweetie. I mean, the way you handled yourself in that interview was just perfection. You sound surprised. What did you think was gonna happen when Dani Dupree

walked in the room?

With you, we never know. But I’m glad you got to set the record straight. Listen, girls, I wanna apologize for everything that I’ve put you through over the past year. Now, I meant what I said the other night before Jacob walked in with handcuffs. I am ready to move on. And I hope you are too, sweetie. Have you kissed and made up with that fine husband of yours yet? It’s not that simple.

He arrested you.

He was doing his job, Naomi. I was wrong. Baby, don’t let my mistake cost you the love of a lifetime. He’s one of the good ones. Stop pushing him away. Linda and her crew have all departed. We can breathe easy now. Done. Good. I can give you back your outfit, Mom. These shoes are squeezing my toes. Helped with the waterworks.

I was crying from pain.

Glad to be of service. I know I promised I wouldn’t interfere, but once I saw what Bill was up to, I couldn’t let his voice be the only one people heard. No apology necessary. You showed the world why the Duprees are a force to be reckoned with. We should have had more faith that you’d be able to hold your own in that situation. Your daddy and I are so proud of you. My mother never had anything this nice. Oh, look what I found in your drawer.

Oh, thank goodness.

Mm-hmm. I wouldn’t want to lose this. It was an anniversary gift from Ted. Every time I look at it, I can’t help but think how different my life would have been without him. Did you catch the interview? I did. It looked like Dani was going through it. I really felt for my sister. But at the same time, her daughters witnessed their mother being accountable for her actions. Not every parent has the strength to do that.

KAT: Yo, Chels.

Hey. What’s good? I’m prepping for that meet with the venture capital firm. Kat, I keep telling you I want us to do this on our own. And that’s still an option. But we’d be crazy not to take the meet and hear their pitch.

I guess.

Table it for now. You gotta be on mental overload after Aunt Dani’s arrest and that interview this morning. I’m doing all right. Mom seems to be more stable than she’s been in a minute. And thank God Dad dropped the charges against her. But back to this venture capital thing. We’ll table it till tomorrow. Tonight, let’s wild out and celebrate. I’d love to, but I can’t.

I already made plans.

Another photo shoot?

Come on, reschedule.

This one’s personal. For real? I’m about to miss my mom’s award ceremony for our business. The least you could do is push back a date with one of your random situationships. Uh, it’s more than that.

I don’t want to get into it.

Since when? Your whole life is online. You stay posting everything. What’s with the secrecy all of a sudden? Look, the people that I’m seeing, they like

to keep things low-key.

Hold up. People?

As in more than one?

Mm-hmm. Again? Did the lieutenant okay overtime, rookie? Or we’re just not that welcome at home since you put your mother-in-law behind bars? I thought we were staying out of each other’s business. Don’t flatter yourself. I couldn’t give a rat’s ass about your personal life, except when it affects the job. Now, you lose focus out there crying about wifey, and it puts my life on the line. And that I won’t tolerate. You done? Not so eager to work with this legendary detective now, are you? I’ll see you tomorrow. Smart-ass. NICOLE: Did you catch the interview? Yeah. Had it on in the clinic waiting room. Dani had them eating out of her hands.

Here or the dining room?

Here. I’m sure there wasn’t a dry eye in the house when Chelsea and Naomi came over and hugged her at the end. Bill’s not gonna like that, having his daughter side with Dani. We’re not gonna have people looking at his side of things. Bill can go to hell. I am done with his ego and narcissism. Yeah, pitting his daughter against her husband, to arrest Dani? Hmm. That is some next-level selfishness. [chuckles] Yeah. I hope Jacob and Naomi are working things out. If you want me to talk to him, I’m happy to. That’s sweet. But what would you say? Well, that we’ve had our share of challenges over the years, but we never threw in the towel. And that everything that we’ve built has been because of the choices that we made way back then. Smartest decision I ever made was agreeing to marry you. Mm. And leave my wife the hell alone. Because if you ever come for my wife again, I will destroy you. Ooh… Why, Teddy. Teddy bear. I’ve never seen you this angry before. You need to consult a good therapist. What’s the latest on the Richardsons? Nicole’s excited about the award ceremony coming up. That makes two of us. I, uh, I had a chat with Ted today.

Oh. What about?

My father. What? I told him I never knew my real dad, and I always wondered about him. You need to be careful, Eva. You’re playing a dangerous game. Okay, so this is the Mims case. You’ll be taking point while I’m on my honeymoon. You think you can handle it? De una.I got this on lock. Go enjoy your Roman holiday. Hit up some pasta joints, toss a coin in the Trevi, and come back shining like new money. I’m gonna do that and then some, all right? Just don’t burn the place down while I’m gone. Speaking of heat, I ran into your niece Kat at the wedding.

Oh?

She’s a Dupree, so I know it’s a sticky situation, but if you’re not opposed. Look, hey, man, I’m not about to police your life, okay? You wanna play with fire? Be my guest. NAOMI: When did you know? JACOB: About your dad and Hayley? I mean, I didn’t see it coming. But you, you’re a cop. You read people for a living. And I’m learning to read you. You don’t want to tell me the truth. Would it make a difference? Well, before, I would have said you have a right to your inner thoughts, but now it feels like everybody’s

just lying to me.

Baby, no, that’s not true. It is. It is. And I’m right in there with the rest of my family. Chelsea, my mom, and I all lied to each other for years, telling ourselves that even if Dad was the ultimate manipulator as a lawyer, he’d never pull that crap at home. And then he hides his affair with Hayley for months and compounds it today by announcing his engagement. He just showed the entire world that she means more to him than us, his family. When did you know? [sighs] I didn’t trust Bill Hamilton since the moment I met him. Why not?

Because I see myself in him.

How can you say that? I’m a cop. And part of my training is spotting people’s weaknesses and using it to get the truth. But the difference between me and Bill is why we do it. I use that skill to protect and serve the people of the district. Bill’s about serving himself. So what’s to keep you from crossing those lines like my dad did? One of these days when you get angry with me

or you get tired of me.

Babe, listen. I will never do what Bill did and lie to you about us. Not ever. And if we’re unhappy in this marriage, we’ll say something and do everything we can to save this miracle we found in each other. And whenever you ask, I’ll do my best to tell you the truth. Unless? Unless my job won’t allow it.

Jacob.

The same way your job won’t allow you to tell things to me sometimes. That’s fair, I guess. Look, after everything you’ve been through, you have every right to ask questions. So I’m telling you to have at it. You can check my phone, check my… check my location, check my mileage.

Check–

No, I do trust you. I do. But if it comes down between choosing my family over your job… Like that will ever happen. I mean, I could see Bill getting arrested maybe, but your grandfather, the senator? Your mom, the fashion model? You don’t ever have to worry about our worlds colliding. I don’t want to jinx it by saying it out loud, but it feels like we might actually be about to go on our honeymoon. Oh, girl, it’s happening. You’ve dealt with all the drama. It’s time for some well-deserved R&R. I can’t thank you enough for having my back, Caroline. Please. That’s what a maid of honor is for. Well, most maids of honors don’t have bullets flying past their heads. True. You newlyweds didn’t have the smoothest start, but the important thing is: you did it. You’re right. I’m so excited. I’ve never been overseas, and I am so ready to have Bill all by myself. Ooh!

Don’t hurt him now.

Oh, I make no promises. [both laughing] Oh, come here. So you’re telling me you’re out here sleeping with two guys?

I didn’t say that.

More than two?

Chels, I swear.

Chill. It’s one guy and his wife. Oh, like the same couple as before or…? Same couple. I’ve been with women before, but now I’m feeling it. Actually, really feeling it. So are you, like, bi-leaning now? Ugh– labels. I just like what I like. Doing you in the moment, I feel that. I figured you would, since your brother identifies as queer. Oh, yeah, I wasn’t tripping about that. For me, it’s the whole throuple situation. Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it. Nah, that’s not my lane. No shade, but I’m more of a “Michelle looking for her Barack” kind of girl. Mm. Different strokes.

So, how is it?

Oh! Like, for real? [both laughing] Well… Well, if you must know. [whispering]

What?

Yes!

[both laughing]

Mm-hmm. I know. [continues laughing] [bag zipping] What are you doing? I’m not sleeping on the couch again. My back’s killing me, and I need my strength to deal with this new ass at work. I’ll get a hotel room. Well, you don’t need to do that. I don’t know what you expect from me, Naomi. I tried looking the other way when it came to your mother, but it didn’t sit right. And I won’t apologize for doing my job. Well, I don’t want you to leave. But you won’t listen to me either.

So now what?

I don’t know. [cries]

Hey.

I’m sorry. I’m sorry. Hey. No, no, no, no. Come here. Come here. Come here. Come here. Come here. It’s okay. All right? I’m here.

It’s all right.

[sniffling] There we go. I see you found your bracelet. Where was it? You know that saying, “If it was a snake, it would have bit me”?

Yeah.

It bit Eva instead. She found it in my desk. Wow. I’m glad to see she’s working out. I had a good talk with her this morning. She seems to be a real sweetheart. Thank you. I can’t believe you actually talked to him.

What were you thinking?

Leslie, chill. Look, I’m still calling you the right name in public, and Ted still has no clue who I really am. I don’t even know why you broached the subject with him. It’s too risky. Says the woman who introduced herself to Nicole under a fake name and pretended she was suicidal. That was different. I had a plan. Yeah, a plan that could have left me alone out here with no one. I just tried to get to know my father. Is that so wrong? His actions should tell you all you need to know about him. He abandoned us before you were even born. That was forever ago. People can grow and learn from their mistakes. You’re right. You need to learn from mine. Because trusting Ted Richardson was the biggest mistake I ever made. Oh, you were right. My mother was on your side. But even before I talked to her, I knew. I came at you way too hot. And I know you didn’t arrest her to hurt her or bully her. I know how much Bill let you down. But I need you to hear me loud and clear. I’m not Bill. I would never in a million years treat you like that sorry excuse of a man did. I know. I know. That’s why I fell in love with you back when you were testifying cases that I was trying. You were clearly a man of integrity, someone I could trust. So you… you don’t need this anymore. And you’re definitely not sleeping on the couch.

I’m glad we’re okay.

We’re more than okay. [phone vibrating]

What’s good?

Just thinking about you, beautiful. Can’t seem to get you off my mind. Oh, really? And what exactly were you thinking? That I’d love to see you again soon. Is that right? Well, I’m actually headed out of town. Ah, qué pesar. That’s too bad. But when I get back, maybe I could cook you some dinner. It’ll give us a chance to get to know each other. You cook too, amor. You are full of surprises. Anita, darling. I think I might need to call my old friends at the NAACP. ‘Cause when Dani walked in, you crushed my hand like it was Birmingham 1973 all over again. Come on, Vernon, you can handle a little hand holding. And don’t act like you weren’t just as worried she might make a scene and sabotage the whole affair. I’ve seldom been happier to be wrong. Our girl really rose to the occasion. Yeah. It takes a lot for Danielle to humble herself like that. Especially in public. After all the indignities Bill subjected her to. Exactly. And I really am worried that all of this has been too hard on her emotionally. She can at least take pride in the outcome. We definitely won this round. ♪ ♪ Hey, the car is downstairs ready to whisk us off to the airport. I’m just gonna go freshen up before we bounce. Okay. Yeah, I’ll be ready when you are. And baby, trust me, this honeymoon is gonna

be well worth the wait.

Ooh. Yes! All righty. ♪ ♪ BILL: Thank you for coming out to hear the real stories behind the salacious headlines. Now that we can put this all behind us, my beautiful bride Hayley and I have more important matters on our agenda. Namely, our long-awaited honeymoon in Italy. I’m not gonna spend another second on this foolishness when there’s so much happiness for us to embrace.

Isn’t that right, sweetheart?

Yes. Mm. Kiss this, baby. Could I get a fresh gin and tonic, please? Uh-uh, leave it. I want to watch it go bye-bye.

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Beyond The Gates Transcript

Transcript provided by Suzanne and Thane

THIS STILL NEEDS EXTENSIVE EDITING!

There’s a woman on the roof of the hospital threatening to jump. She asked for you by name

and will only talk to you.

NICOLE: Hello? How can I help? Kneel or so help me. [screaming and shouting]

[gunshot]

[screaming] The shame you have brought on this family. HAYLEY: I guess dreams really do come true. BILL: And this is just the beginning. HAYLEY: I’ve never been happier. Danielle Dupree, I’m here to place you under arrest for attempted murder. You have the right to remain silent. Son, if this is about Danielle firing a weapon at the wedding, there’s been some kind of miscommunication back at the station. The officer on the scene interviewed everybody and determined the charges were unmerited. Mr. Hamilton came forward with new charges.

My dad did this?

Of course he did. I thought I was waking up from my nightmare. I’m still in it. Since when does my ex-husband, who is not a part of the DA’s office, have an iota of say in who gets charged? Excellent question. Explain yourself, Jacob. It’s not unusual for victims to advocate for police to pursue charges. Bill presented the video evidence and… CHELSEA: My damn video. He’s not answering the phone. That coward. He presented it to the state attorney’s office, who determined it was enough evidence for an arrest. I can’t stop these wheels from moving. I have to bring you in. He can’t take another thing from me. Did my father request the added humiliation of the arrest being handled by my mom’s son-in-law? My lieutenant agreed this should be handled with discretion. So I figured someone who knows and respects the family should be… You dare use the word “family” and “respect” while Mirandizing your own mother-in-law? I’m just doing my job. When you called me tonight, you told me you were the job but you were my husband first. If you meant a word of that, Jacob, don’t you dare put those cuffs on my mother.

Thank you.

Mm-hmm. Thank you. [R&B music playing] Kimberly. Yeah. Bill Hamilton here. Listen, loved this morning’s piece. You are fearless when it comes to taking down the long-standing institutions people once thought were untouchable. And along those lines, if you’re looking for a shot at an exclusive, one of the gates’ finest should be getting arrested right about now. WOMAN [over P.A.]: Nurse to room 818. MAN [over P.A.]: Nurse to the third floor. [elevator bell dings] [wind whistling] [phone vibrating] Who is that calling? Because if it’s security, I promise you… You wanted me alone. That’s what you got. If you get any closer, I promise you… If you get any closer, I’ll jump. I don’t think that’s what you want. You asked for me. Not wanting to be alone is a positive sign. [chuckling] What if I just want an audience? [laughing] I hope, however we’re connected, I can help you. We don’t know each other. Not directly. I feel like I do. You’re that psychiatrist that… I’ve seen profiled in those glossy magazines. Oh, you must be the best. [Leslie crying] Please help me. Please help me. ♪ ♪ Welcome back, Dr. McBride. Mr. Armstrong informed us all of your privileges have been restored and your account is in the black. Will you be needing anything while you’re at your table? Well, Dr. McBride, will you? No, I’m good. Randy. Oh, it is good to be back,

all thanks to you.

And Joey. Oh, yeah, that Joey, he’s something else. You know, you had me thinking he was some thug when he’s just a solid dude trying to carry on his family business. In another life, we could have been bros. Now that might be pushing it a bit. Yeah, your boss did have some scary moments. He’s a tough guy to read. Anyway, may play a couple of these rounds that Joey gave me and get a head start on repaying him. Or… …you could just slow your roll, Doug. You got a fresh start, man. Use it. Leave. Never come back here again. Give up gambling for good. [R&B music playing] Hello. Uh-oh. That look has bad news written all over it. A text from Naomi. She and Jacob, they’re not just couple friends, they’re couple goals, but tonight might put a strain on that, and it just makes me so glad that you fight fires and not crime. Uh, more details, Ash. You’re doing that thing where your mind races faster than your words. Remember how the Duprees had their press conference to defuse the whole Dani shooting up the wedding thing? Yeah, she got lucky the whole world took the Dupree side. Well, the Dupree luck might have run out. Dani just got arrested. Wow, that’s rough. But how does that put a strain on Naomi and Jacob? He was the arresting officer. Last time I saw a pair of those, I was the one playing officer. Just ask Bill. Oh, wait. He’s already calling your shots, isn’t he? I’m still your son-in-law. You know I don’t want to do this. Then why are you? There are other cops… Who won’t give a damn about you or your family. My lieutenant ordered me to bring a patrol unit with me.

I can’t believe this is happening.

I convinced him to kill the lights and the sirens, but if I don’t execute this warrant in a timely manner, things could get ugly. Jacob is right about that much. We better move before we have a SWAT team at the gates. Baby, I’ve been where you are, seeing my reflection in a pair of cuffs. Yeah, but you were fighting the good fight for rights for our people, not embarrassing your family. Back then, they used the cuffs to make us feel powerless. We used them to prove how powerless they were. Dani, no one can take your dignity. Have at it, Detective. I will be representing my mother. Repeat the charge for the record. Attempted murder. Dani Dupree, you have the right to remain silent. DANI: I know. I have the right to remain silent. Anything I say will be held against me. So what happens if I say that this arrest is a load of crap? Will you charge me with telling the truth? Let’s go. Do you understand the charges that I’ve read to you? Oh, yes. Mom is right. You let my father get to you and turn you into his errand boy. I hope it was worth it, because I will never forgive you. Let’s go. ♪ ♪ [indistinct police radio chatter] You can wait outside while I start processing. Go right ahead. We’ll watch. Can you do one thing for me? Stop. Can you just take a step away from the ledge? No. No, not yet. That’s… that’s too much pressure. That’s the problem with everybody. They just keep moving too fast. Okay, you can set the pace. We’ll move slow. With your name? Is there a reason you can’t tell me? Are you in some kind of trouble? Other than the obvious? No. I’m Sherry. Nice to meet you, Sherry. I’m Nicole. Do you want to tell me what upset you so much that brought you up here? How much? Your red bottom shoes cost more than I make in a year. I’m guessing the last five minutes must have cost me a week’s worth of pay. You asked for my help, and I’m here to give it to you. Free of charge. If you’re ready to share, you can tell me what brought you here. I lost my husband six months ago. I guess I started losing myself around the same time. Grief can be devastating. You’re not alone in that. But I feel alone. Alone with all this pain. And I can’t take it. [sobbing]: I can’t take it.

I can’t take it.

Sherry, no! It’s been too long, Shanice. She’s still not responding to her texts. Well, would you expect her to? I don’t know, but I have a feeling. She’s up on the roof with a jumper and no support and… Give it time. Security is following protocol. Damn protocol. I can’t leave my wife up there just winging it. I’m going to the roof. [R&B music playing]

Oh, wow.

Mm. You’re you, aren’t you? I’m sorry, I think you got me mixed up with someone a little more fabulous. Andre Richardson, right? The photographer. Mm. Okay. It’s not every day a stunning woman recognizes me. Oh, sorry, that must have sounded like… I wasn’t flirting. I’m Eva, your aunt’s temporary assistant. Ah, Eva.

Mm-hmm.

Yeah.

Aunt Nicole is the best of us.

Yeah. That’s all the recommendation I need. Have a drink with me. Also not flirting. You’d actually be doing me a favor since I had plans tonight and they were canceled. Fell through. Okay. I just hate it that the Dupree family chaos is messing with what Naomi and Jacob have. All couples fight, Ash. About money, about family, about not seeing enough of each other.

I know, but what if…

Stop worrying. Naomi’s probably already over it. Okay. I’m gonna decide you’re right about this because Naomi loves Jacob and he loves her. True. But I love you more. You are so getting lucky tonight. After I saw the incredible video you shot of Nicole, I had to look you up on Insta.

Ah.

That’s how I recognized you. Mystery solved. Okay, so what did you think of the work?

I liked it.

Mm-hmm. But? And my favorites were the pictures where you showed the people behind the mask. You revealed every imperfection, and at the same time, you made them somehow perfect again. All right, look, you got to stop. If you keep puffing my ego, I just might explode. No, no, I’m telling the truth. Can you see that or do you need your magic lens?

Magic lens?

Mm-hmm. Okay. I’ll play. So let’s see. It’s a rare thing for you to be all the way real. You do that self-effacing thing that pretty girls do because they think that it makes people less envious of them. You’re curious, you’re smart. And, uh, with those you trust, honest. I don’t think I’ve ever heard that many nice words strung together about me. All right, that’s a flat-out lie. So since you work with Nicole, I assume that you met my Uncle Ted. He’s a good guy. Works hard to make me feel welcome. Must be nice being a part of his family. ♪ Womp, womp, womp, womp♪ ♪ Ooh, you know you bad♪ ♪ Tall, tall, tall, tall, better handle that♪ ♪ Haters get out of line♪ ♪ Don’t let it stop your sass♪ ♪ Haters get out of line♪ ♪ You gotta bounce, bounce back♪ ♪ Back up with the drama, drama♪ ♪ I don’t want it, give that to your mama, mama♪ ♪ If she crying, get your life right, Dalai Lama♪ ♪ Yeah, you better handle that.♪ I know I said I would follow your lead, but what if you slipped? I don’t know you well, Sherry, but I don’t think you’re ready to give up. But what would you know about it? If you don’t think I’m serious… I don’t doubt that you’re serious. Is this the part where you tell me it’s a long way down? It is. But I’m not talking about the distance from this roof to that sidewalk. Then what? Many steps brought you here, Sherry. Heartbreaks, disappointments. Sometimes the simple act of voicing what brought you here brings comfort. Do you want to try it? I think… I think I do. I would like that. Then let’s do that. I think we’d be more comfortable in my office, though. We can sit down, warm up, I can make you some tea. [wind whistling] I can’t put the cards down yet. Not when I still owe Joey. Then use those next-level hands to stitch up a few extra hearts and you’ll be good to go. I took an oath to my patients. If I start overloading the schedule now, I’d end up making a mistake, and I… I can’t risk that. And playing with Joey’s money, there’s no risk?

What if you lose?

I won’t. After the solid that Joey just pulled for me, I think my luck is about to change. You’ll see. My office is just down this hallway. I don’t know how this is gonna make things better. This is just the start, Sherry. It will take work for you to rebuild your life, and this is the first step. But you are not alone this time. If you feel wobbly, just hang on to me. I’m here. WOMAN [over P.A.]: Nurse to Pediatrics. They can’t keep Mom overnight, can they? Night court is still in session, so she should be offered a bail hearing this evening. But nothing is guaranteed when there’s an outside hand with his grubby fingers all over the scale. I hate to be the bearer of more bad news, but there’s a reporter from the Washington Sleuthmagazine sitting on the bench out there. That’s not exactly the police blotter beat. Someone tipped him off. This is Bill. The police agreed no crime was committed. Now suddenly, they’ve decided that Dani tried to murder two people. That son of a… Martin, there are eyes on us. Now, we have to stay calm and remember any move we make reflects on Dani. No, no. Please go. Don’t stop on my account. I do miss these Dupree family gatherings and complete with a speech by Queen Anita herself. Don’t disrespect my grandmother. I meant no offense, Congressman. Now, where is the star of the evening? I was hoping to catch Dani in that orange jumpsuit. How could you do this, Dad? Haven’t you hurt Mom enough? Girls, listen. I’m sorry you’re suffering because of your mother’s criminality. Congressman. I’m sure you can spin this fiasco to your advantage. Yeah? Aren’t you cosponsoring a bill to create employment opportunities for paroled felons? I mean, since you have a future parolee in your own family.

That’s enough.

Your favorite aunt. Dani Dupree can be the poster girl. Could you crack that door. Better? I don’t like being closed in. I don’t pose a threat. I mean, I’m already regretting being on that roof. What’s changed? I looked it up online, depression, and that’s me. After, uh, my husband left me, that’s when it started. When you said your husband was gone, I assumed he died. He rejected me. He deserted me. That must have been incredibly painful. Still is. They live here, him and his new wife. And they look straight through me like I’m dead. Like I’m a ghost. So I went up on that roof thinking I might as well be. As overwhelming as that pain is, Sherry, I can assure you it’s temporary. Suicide is never the answer. I wanted him to see and know how much he hurt me. So your actions tonight… Oh, listen, I would give nothing better than to get revenge on that man. But sitting here with you, I realize that I would love to see the look on his face when, after everything he did to me… …I win. Aside from my own parents, Ted and Nicole are the gold standard. Thank you for telling me more about them.

Yeah.

Now… I’m going to sit here and enjoy the rest of my drink while you say hello to your friends. You…

Mm.

Ah. [Eva chuckling] It was a pleasure meeting you. Same. Excuse me. Uh, my tab. Martin. Babe, this isn’t the time or the place. [Bill chuckles] You want to go at me, Congressman? Hmm? Bring it. Another Dupree up on charges. Simple assault. This moment is a long time coming. Come here. No one is going to jail. I’ll see the charges against Dani dropped before the end of the night. [chuckling] Even if you could grease enough palms to make that room full of people develop amnesia, you’d still be screwed, Vernon, because there are a million more witnesses. The video Chelsea made– phew– it went viral. So unless you plan on paying off, what, half the Internet… Why do you keep doing this to me? This could end with Mom in prison, Dad. And I’d have to live knowing that I did that to her. No, Chelsea, sweetheart. Hey, hey. You’re the heroine here. You made it possible for justice to be served. How dare you use your own child to justify your aberrant behavior. You are nothing but a petty, conniving

sack of…

Stop! This all stops now. I didn’t tell you about the arrest because I didn’t want you anywhere near it. Okay? And how’d you hear about it, anyway?

Was it in the press?

It doesn’t matter how. What matters is you keeping this from me. Hey, come… Our evil stepmother’s pissed. Maybe there isn’t a woman alive Dad can’t alienate. Mm-hmm. Trouble in adulterous paradise? Mm-hmm. What were you thinking going for him? Bill’s gone too far. Someone needs to put him on notice. With your fists, surrounded by cops? As much as it pains me, we both know who holds the cards in this situation. We agreed to let it go, to let Dani go. No, no, technically, we agreed that everything would turn out as it should. Huh, but you couldn’t be trusted. That you would play me like you played her. Baby, the only one playing you is Dani. Oh. So did she reignite these theatrics tonight? No, that was you, Bill. And now I’m the home-wrecker who stole Dani’s ex-husband and got her arrested for attempted murder. Now look, we cannot be ruled by what people think. Then why do you care if people think that your ex got away with the wedding lunacy? [Bill sighs] You’re holding on to Dani. You know that’s not true. Oh, then your need to win is more important than me. Either way, I’m the other woman. Baby, there’s nothing left between Dani and me.

Okay.

Okay. Prove me wrong. You made the charges appear, make them disappear. Let her go for real this time, Bill. You make me think I’m not crazy. NICOLE: You’re going through a traumatic event, and you need tools to deal with that. I would love to keep our conversations going, free of charge. I’ll forever be grateful that you met me on that roof, but I don’t think us spending more time together is a good idea. ‘Cause it’ll remind me of what my lowest moment was. I mean, that make sense? It does. But please know you have nothing to be ashamed of. This is a list of therapists that I highly recommend. It’s imperative that you call one to make an appointment right away. And I’ll remain available to you if you need me. Thank you, Nicole. You are beyond what I hoped for. [indistinct P.A. announcement] What the hell are you doing here? Bam! This put a huge dent in what I owe Joey. You’re smart, man. Get out while you’re ahead. I’m calling it a night. But… I’m golden.

[scoffs]

It’ll be no sweat to win back the rest of what I owe. Then I’ll get out before my lucky streak ends. The charges have been dropped. You’re free to go. If you’re looking for a thank-you, you can find it in hell. It’s my new bride you should thank. You have no reason to believe me, Dani, but I am sorry you had to experience even a moment’s more pain. My mother always said you can’t use a passive voice when you make an apology. This pain didn’t just happen, Hayley. You made it happen. I wouldn’t be in this police station, I wouldn’t have been in the country club either because I would still be married to Bill. You’re right. It’s time for me to self-own. Look, I don’t regret loving Bill, but I do regret the pain that I caused you. [scoffs] Since you just actually admitted to taking your mother’s advice, let’s go home. What about me? Can I come home? You could have at least given me a heads-up. I could have prepared Mom. We could have taken her in on our own terms. You know how volatile your mother is. I couldn’t risk her getting spooked and taking off. You should have taken the risk. But you didn’t trust me in that moment… and I don’t trust you in this one. ♪ ♪ Would you please just drop it? Has anyone heard from Nicole? Oh… Sorry, I forgot to tell you. I got a text from Mom on the way over. She’s been involved with a patient and she promised to call you and Aunt Dani later. That’s reassuring. And the support that the two of you provided tonight,

greatly appreciated.

Anytime. Let’s hope we don’t have to hold you to that. Martin, I know you’re upset, but going after Bill like that is feeding right into what he wants. Granddad already reminded me, Smitty. I don’t need my husband piling on. And I can’t stand by while someone I love gets hurt right in front of me. That would normally be hella sexy, but I don’t want my Romeo punching his way out of the office. I won’t. It was a one-off.

It’s over.

Martin… [sighs] I didn’t know you were seeing Eva. I’m not. We just met tonight. Yeah. She’s nice though. So, delivered any babies without me? No. Elevator babies are rarer than you think. [chuckles] I’d say once in a lifetime. Yeah. Well, it’s good to see you out here. Yeah, Ashley was kind of worried that the new nursing gig might ruin her social life. But look at you, crushing the whole work-life balance. Yeah, we’re figuring it out. Well, I’m glad everything’s working out for you. I got to take off. Hope to see you soon. Yeah.

Uh…

Yeah. Thanks, man. ♪ ♪ You worked that mug shot. That’s why you’re my favorite nephew. And only. [chuckles] The way Martin went for Bill, it worried me, Vernon. Since you pulled him aside and talked him down, you must be on the same page, right? My grandson was expressing a… a healthy momentary descent after Bill goaded him. My whole family wanted to do the same. It’s just that Martin got there first. Stop worrying, son. You know, I had the best lawyer

in the whole world today, baby.

[scoffs] But I hope it didn’t cost you anything. I didn’t want to drag your man into this. No. No, you didn’t. Jacob chose to insert himself into Dad’s agenda. ANITA: Naomi. When I married your grandfather, I knew what I was getting and all that entailed. You did, too, with Jacob. Now, he is everything we want law enforcement to be. But you can’t expect him to make excuses when it’s inconvenient for our family. [scoffs] What Dad did tonight was twisting the law into some sort of revenge pretzel. Jacob knew that, and he still backed Dad and the blue instead of our wedding bands. How do I reconcile that? You know what? I am lousy company. I love you both. Do not mess with my wife. But it’s such enjoyable payback. After you left me for her. We had an affair. And after I paid you off years ago,

you agreed.

I caved. I’m rethinking it now. How much would it take to make you go away? Mm, something you never gave me before. Respect. And if you can’t handle that, then I guess I’ll have to book a session with Nicole. Tell me, if I confide in your wife about our affair, is she allowed to confront you about it or be bound to that hypocrite oath of yours? I don’t know why you’re here, but wherever you came from, you need to go back and leave my wife the hell alone. Because if you ever come for my wife again, I will destroy you. [chuckles] Ooh… Why, Teddy. Teddy Bear. I’ve never seen you this angry before. You need to consult a good therapist. [sighs] There you are.

Mm.

So glad to see that face. I was nervous for you. Yeah, it was a nerve-racking experience. But thankfully, she came down off the ledge. How’d you do it? [chuckles] What did you say? What did she say to you? Dr. Richardson, you know not to ask me that. Doctor-patient confidentiality applies even to spouses. So that woman is gonna be your patient. You gonna see her again? No. Sherry wants to start fresh with someone new. But I told her my door’s always open. Given what we just experienced, who knows? She might walk right back through it. At this point, it’s up to her. I could be dead, but I’m very much alive. What does that even mean? And what were you doing at the hospital in the first place? The plan is you stay out of sight while I get close to Ted and Nicole. I sort of met her. Well, Sherry did. [chuckles] Who is Sherry? My alter ego. Sherry Carter. And Sherry made quite the first impression on both Dr. Richardsons. Wait, you talked to Ted, too? I pissed him off. [laughs] It was so satisfying. He saw me. Saw my power, and he was afraid. I just hearkened back to my theater days and gave my best Juliet. You didn’t. That is awful. So was that video of her and Ted pretending to be a perfect couple. Leslie, none of this is okay. It was necessary. I needed to see her in person– Ms. Nicole. And play with her a little. Then Ted, he cornered me, made these empty threats. I can’t wait until he finds out about you. [chuckles] Mmm. Delicious. Promise you won’t do anything like this again. You worked too hard on this plan to blow it up with unnecessary risks. When the time is right, you’ll have your revenge. Oh, yes, I will. Did you mean what you said earlier? I don’t hate you. Don’t. I keep going back to you siding with my dad. Choosing him over me. That’s not what this was. That’s how this feels. Naomi, we never go to bed angry. I’m going to bed. You can sleep on the couch. [sighs] What is it gonna take for you to realize everything I did was to protect you? You were protecting you. You might not love Dani anymore, but you sure as hell care what she thinks of you. If you want us to work, Bill, you have to stop antagonizing Dani and the Duprees. They can’t be this important. Can you do that, or should I start packing for my honeymoon for one? I don’t even know how I can look him in the eye after this. Listen, Chelsea, your father is an ass, but what I am not going to do is let his stupidity rob you of having a dad. I’m old enough for this to be my decision. Okay, well, weigh this in, then. I have never doubted your father’s love for you and Naomi. And I want you to base your relationship with him on how he treats you, not on how he treats me. [scoffs] All right. [kisses] Get some rest. I’m very proud of you. I might hold off on some of that pride. I know how hard you all fought to get me home tonight. And I hate what Bill put us through. But there’s a part of me that wonders why he did it. I was done. I told Hayley that plain as day. I let him go. And as soon as I did that, he is on the phone getting me arrested. And you’re interpreting that as what? I think deep down, this was his invitation back to the dance. Tonight, Bill could have had me locked up. Instead, he dropped the charges. This wasn’t some boy pulling your pigtails to get your attention in fifth grade. You’d be in a cell right now if it weren’t for his new wife who threatened to leave him.

This was all Hayley.

No. No one makes Bill Hamilton do what he doesn’t want to do. I know it doesn’t make sense. But I think this was his way to get my attention back. You cannot mean that. Despite everything, I love that miserable, wicked man. And if this was an overture… …I’m ready to take him back in a heartbeat.

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Beyond The Gates Transcript

Transcript provided by Suzanne and Thane

THIS STILL NEEDS SOME EDITING!

This is the second time I caught you creeping in my mom’s things. Give me a second, Kat. I need to close this. What did you just delete? What are you hiding? Nothing. You seem upset. Not upset. Astute. Laura usually does her work at the home office. Why are you in my mom’s hospital office alone, messing around with her computer?

It’s called working.

I’m calling it messy. The Duprees have a family motto: “Fool me once, it’s on me. Fool me twice, it’s your funeral.” [sighs] [indistinct police radio chatter] [phone vibrating] I was just staring at this stack of legal briefs, thinking I’d rather be staring at Detective Jacob Hawthorne in his briefs. [chuckles] I love the way you think, woman. Let the record show, though, you’re the one who caved and called after

we just saw each other.

But we weren’t alone. Hmm. How much longer do you have to work? It’s hard to say. Listen, Naomi. You know I love you, right? Mrs. Hamilton. Or… Ms. Dupree. Forgive me. What should I call you? Thirsty. Yes, ma’am. The usual? Time to embrace the unusual.

Surprise me.

[phone vibrates] You got it. [“No Consequences” playing] ♪ ‘Cause there’s♪ ♪ No consequences♪ ♪ There’s nothing to lose♪ ♪ You could burn this house right down…♪ [song continues faintly] [laughs softly] ♪ ♪ [upbeat music playing] [line ringing] CHELSEA [recorded]: Hey, it’s Chels. Leave a message, but while you’re leaving it, please note that I probably won’t ever hear it.

Text me.

[line beeps] Chelsea Bear. It’s Momager Bear. Your presence is requested tonight at your grandparents’. I have something earthshaking to share, and you are going to want to hear it in person. I need you to know that there is nothing and no one above you, and I would never, ever intentionally cause you a moment of pain.

You think I don’t know that?

Yeah, I just… I needed you to hear it. And I needed to say it. I love you something fierce, Naomi. I love you more. EVA: Why do I feel like I wandered into one of those fancy shops where the salespeople eye me like I have sticky fingers? Victim act. Good pivot. Might have worked if I didn’t see you just blank that screen. I blanked the screen because even though you’re Dr. Richardson’s daughter, you aren’t authorized to… Exactly. I can’t see those files, and I’m related to her. You just hung up your apron at the salon, but you have full access? Don’t even. Mom’s still here. Let’s ask her. Nicole’s probably not answering because she’s still in the psych unit finishing up her rounds. Now, if you want to go run and whine to your mommy, go right ahead. And while I’m gone, you’ll bolt. Since I’m not the one with the issue, I’ll stick around and make sure nothing conflicts with that big award ceremony she has coming up. Everything’s all set with that. Except for last-minute details. You’re right. I’m new to all this. But I am not new to scoping out a client’s needs. Just give me a break, Kat. I’m trying to make the most out of the opportunity Nicole so graciously gave me. Nah, I’m not buying it. Mom should be out of her rounds by now. We’ll both be back and see what you’re really about. I didn’t come looking for this job. It got dropped in my lap by some random curveball. You’re saying Laura getting slammed by that biker is your lucky day? Stop twisting everything. I’ve got no beef with you, but you seem to be gunning for me. Maybe you should ask yourself why. Oh, I know exactly why. And now my mother will know, too.

There’s my award winner.

[chuckles] They haven’t given it to me yet, and who knows if they still will? Now that the Dupree name is synonymous with wielding a deadly weapon. You’re synonymous with grace, brains

and beauty.

[laughs] For instance, the curve of your neck and the taste of your… [laughing]: Ted, stop. Remember where we are. Remember who loves you. MAN [over P.A.]: Nurse Hugo to ICU. I have one more patient to see. And I have a few files to update. Meet me in my office when you’re done. Oh, how much of that smush did you have to witness? You don’t have to be embarrassed when your husband’s being romantic like that. Some of us would kill to have what you’ve got. [elevator bell dings] Mom, I’ve been looking all over for you. You will never guess what that queen of locks did. Queen of locks? You mean Eva? Do you have another hairdresser on your payroll? I didn’t need to see the video. I was there, George. Thank you for your concern. I know you can empathize with… after what you went through with Grayson. Send Adelaide our love, too. Was that George giving you the business about our girl?

I set him straight.

Mm-hmm. How many calls have you fielded

from the ladies who lunch?

Too many. Remember all the calls we got when Dani begged us to go to New York and start modeling? I thought she had perfected the art of the tantrum then. She’s outdone herself with the revival. If we just hadn’t forced her to go to that wedding, she never would have touched that gun. Bill didn’t give us a choice. We cannot go back, my love. All we can do is pray our beautiful daughter can finally move forward. You sound happy. Jacob just called a little while ago just to tell me he loves me. Mom, I’m sorry. I didn’t think. Naomi, honey, never apologize for being happy. I tell you, I am so grateful for the grace I have received. I may hate Bill forever, but after that stunt I pulled, I am glad that your father is still breathing and that I am not dripped out in handcuffs and an orange jumpsuit. So not my color. You know, I thought Jacob’s call was the best thing to happen to me today, but hearing you sound like you might be a close second. Well, there’s more where that came from. When you’re wrapped, come on to the Grands’. I’m gathering the whole family together. Some things are best done face to face.

Like what?

Oh, gotta go. Be there tonight. Later, baby. Dani Long Legs! [grunting rhythmically] [laughs] Vandanna! Vanessa McBride, I thought you were never going to get here.

We have to get you a drink.

Yes. Doug McBride. Joey Armstrong. I’ve seen you around the club. I like to take private meetings in my car. You ever read that book The Lincoln Lawyer? No. No? Michael Connelly’s a genius. You should check it out. You look a little nervous there, McBride. Everything all right? I’m thinking maybe I made a mistake. R-Randy didn’t think we should meet. I think maybe I should have listened to him. Maybe. Or maybe we should talk it out. Find out if you got into the right car… or if you should hitch another ride home. I thought we put this to bed the other day. That was before I caught Eva creeping again on your work computer, Mom. When you caught Martin and me doing that once, you grounded us for a week. You really think Eva was snooping in my patient files? Well, you gave your passcode keychain to the kingdom to an imperfect stranger, someone you barely know and wouldn’t even trust to do your hair. Eva is not a stranger. Mona recommended her, and we trust Mona implicitly. Mona’s smart, but Eva’s slick. WOMAN [over P.A.]: Nurse to pediatrics. [sighs] You think Eva is some type of grifter out to steal my patient files and blackmail my clients? It’s possible. You’re reaching, Kat. That girl has stepped up, and she has been a capable, courteous and effective assistant. So you’re just gonna ignore this transgression? Alleged transgression. And this will all soon be moot. Laura will be back at work, and Eva will be out of our lives with a glowing recommendation. I’m telling you, her vibe is off. Not just off. Wrong. Dead wrong. You expect me to fire someone based on vibes? Baby, the only one having bad feelings is you. So my opinion doesn’t count? I don’t need you to be friends with Eva. Do I need you to see her as a person of value? You should want to give her a hand up. You mean like a makeover? ‘Cause she could use that. You know what is not a good look? My spoiled brat of a daughter looking down on someone based on vibes.

Mom, if you would just listen…

No, you listen. Just like when you were a little girl. I need you to sit and spin and think on this. And do not revisit this with me until you realize how wrong you are. WOMAN [over P.A.]: Orderly to 211. So I’ve been playing cards since I was a kid. M-Me and my boys, we got this Saturday night game. Small stakes. Anyway, when V and I sent our kids off to college, I ended up spending a lot more time at a casino and ended up owing more than what I had on hand. So you went to Randy? Yeah. Yeah, we-we have a history. Randy was this scrawny little kid, and one day, I found myself on the opposite side of a bully, and there was Randy offering up a punch. We got our asses kicked. [laughs] And now Randy’s still that little kid looking out for you. But he doesn’t see what I see. A grown man responsible for his own debts. That number look familiar? That’s exactly what I owe to the penny. How did you know? I know you own the casino, but… I take an interest in my clientele, Doug. And they become friends. I can always use more friends. Friends like you. For my daughter to strut wearing those Walking Deadrucksacks. Make it happen. I’m so sorry. I hate to be rude. It’s good seeing you handling business. You mean instead of a .45? [laughs] Yes, this is preferable. I’m just glad you can make time.

What are we celebrating?

Me, of course. Grands? I was just texting you.

Granddaddy indulged me.

[laughing] Cassiopia was visible tonight. [laughing] You see, when we’ve been married as long as you have, I hope Jacob and I are strolling under the stars, too. Aw. And I’m sorry for barging in, but Mom insisted I get over here ASAP. Oh, we got the same vague call, too. Okay. Any inkling? Good surprise or bad? And your mother sounded confident, grounded. I think Dani’s bearing good news. Or… she’s run out

of things to break.

[laughter] I’m here. It better be for a good reason. You look like you just got out of bed. I told you I was meeting up with a couple of new friends. Emphasis on “couple.” What’s up?

Eva.

Seriously? You chose this time and place to bitch about the temp? This place because when I was little, my dad used to bring me out here to see the… the skyline and beyond are mine for the taking. And this time, because tonight, I caught Eva creeping on my mom’s work computer. News flash: assistants often use computers. She’s my mom’s personal assistant. My mom’s personal office is at the house. But her person is at the hospital. Checking Aunt Nicole’s iCal at whichever office is just part of the gig. I’ve hired and fired enough assistants to know it’s suspicious. And when I told my mom that, she acted like I was being privileged. Can you believe that? [scoffs] Okay, I know I can be bougie to the max, but this isn’t that. Something is off about Eva. She makes my baby hair stand at attention. Then whip out the gel for five more minutes before she’s out of there. Cuz, you are putting way too much emphasis on a passing hiccup in your big, beautiful life. But Eva doesn’t feel temporary. It feels like… I don’t know, like she’s being diabolical and strategic. [both laughing] What? Ah, why does she bug me so much? Maybe it’s my mama’s drama that’s got us all acting out of character. Oh, like bringing home two total strangers? That’s completely in character for me. But deciding that the new girl can’t sit with us at our table because she wore combat boots in your mom’s office? That reeks of some high school “mean girl” shizz. You were never that girl, Kat. I’m still not. [scoffs] Oh, uh, you summoned me to the top of your daddy’s castle, where he told you that the world was yours. We are literally standing in your “special spot” looking down on one of your mom’s subjects. The assistant. Just pretend for one second I’m right about this.

Then what?

[phone chimes] [sighs] I got to jet. Mom wants me at the Grands’ for some big announcement.

Thanks for coming, Chels.

Aw. I’m sorry for making this about me. I could give a masterclass on that. My mom is at the lowest point in her life, and all I can think about is telling her I want to quit modeling to work full-time on our purse empire. And my advice? Tell her, stat. My advice? Let it go. We just barely survived Hayley’s insurgence, and now I’m supposed to be okay with this perfect stranger coming into my family’s life? Not happening. [sighs heavily] Ted. Hi. Nicole got hung up and I thought I’d wait for her here. Okay, well, um, I’ll just go. Don’t rush off. Tell me, how are things going with you?

Me?

Yeah. I know my wife’s schedule can be a lot sometimes. I’m just happy that Nicole, after all these years, hasn’t figured out that she can do so much better. But you’re a godsend, and she adores you. And she’s a good judge of people. You don’t have to be so nice. Well, it’s the truth. Try it. Tell me, what’s bothering you? Nothing. See you tomorrow. Eva, I can’t let you leave like this. I think I know what’s going on here. You leave any couture for the rest of us? I just realized my closet is a mausoleum. Everything I wore was to make Bill look good, so everything’s gotta go. I love that the first step in your rebirth is shopping. Please tell me the next step is something tall, dark and fine. Like gym rat hottie over there? VANESSA: Diego. The club’s most in-demand trainer. I hear it’s because he specializes in locating the G spot. So, what’s happening with you? Things good with Doug? I didn’t know an empty nest meant an empty house. Now that the twins are away at college, Doug’s never home.

Then again, neither am I.

You okay with that? It works for us. Doug and I are still partners. The hearts and flowers and sex have long faded, but when we’re actually around each other, we’re content and comfortable. And we trust each other not to let anything or anyone screw up this thing we’ve built. I used to think that about Bill. Just because you’ve had it on lock for years doesn’t mean you don’t need to keep locking it down. I told myself Hayley was a passing fling until Bill was about to say, “I do.”

[phone vibrates]

Oh, there’s my cue. I can’t be fashionably late for a family gathering that I called.

Wish me luck.

You don’t need it. You are Dani Dupree.

[laughs]

You’re right. Ms. McBride. You forgot something. Yes, I did. So how does this work, exactly? Do I, do I sign a marker or… These hands, they might not look like much, but they can get me back in the black. A few valve repairs and some stents, and I can pay you back

with interest and…

Doug, relax. Your debt’s been paid. I took care of what you owe my casino, and… for a little extra touch, I’d like to float you some more.

Look, I can explain.

Is it the Dupree of it all?

You got me.

[laughs] They can be intimidating. But you belong here, Eva. Never doubt that. I know your parents must be very proud of you. Well, sort of. I never knew my dad. And my mom died when I was little. I don’t even remember her. But I have Leslie, who raised me. And, yeah, she’s proud, for sure. I’m sorry to hear about your parents, especially since they’re not here for you when you’ve been mistreated.

I’m not mistreated.

I know Kat came at you before. Has she done that again? She’s just looking out for Nicole.

I’m not mad at it.

That’s our father’s parents. We wanted her to think that the world was hers. I guess we overdid it. And it seems like you got a taste of her entitlement. That’s okay. If you ever run into that again from anyone, you have me as a resource. You mean that, don’t you? I’m a man of my word, Eva. Sure. Look, it’s okay if Kat doesn’t like me, but I don’t just want this job.

I need it.

Are you strapped for money? Isn’t everybody? WOMAN [over P.A.]: Code blue. Look, and working for Nicole makes me feel like I can learn and grow and have the same kind of place in this world you gave your daughter. Whatever Kat felt about you, I think she was off base. I feel it. I was just telling Kat the same thing.

Really?

Of course. Our daughter can be a little hard on people, especially new people. But you just keep doing what you’re doing, and you won’t be going anywhere. At least until Laura gets back. Well, I really hope she gets well, but I do like working for you. Remember that. You work for me, and Kat works for Ted. The only business of mine that Kat is involved in is the business of being my daughter. She does not hire or fire or even ask for so much as a latte. I wish I could say that Kat will get over this and stop making your life difficult, but that’s not her way. Understood. Any, um, advice on how to deal with her? [chuckles] Don’t give her any oxygen, and hopefully she’ll stop breathing down your neck. But you know where to find us if the situation escalates.

I would hate to lose you.

And I have some advice. Get out of here and don’t give us or our colorful family any more thought. I’ll try to do that. And, Eva, when you get to the office tomorrow, make yourself at home. She seems like a good kid.

I feel bad.

Why? You didn’t do anything. WOMAN [over P.A.]: We need a nurse to trauma bay seven. [hushed]: Eva. [hushed]: You can’t be here. Nicole and Ted are just down the hall. I got your video. I watched it a dozen times. If I knew the video would upset you, I wouldn’t have sent it.

But you’ve got to go.

Imagine being that entitled that you think that the whole world revolves around you and your family, that untouchable. And him looking at her like she’s freaking Beyoncé. He used to look at me like that. You’ve waited years for this. You can’t just blow it on impulse. People build gates to make them feel safe. They don’t realize that by building them, the whole world knows that there’s something precious inside. It’s just an invitation to burn it all down. I’m going to make Ted and Nicole wish they never met. [elevator bell dings] [elevator doors open] [R&B music playing] Hey, babe. I’m at Uptown. You wanna come join me for a drink? Oh, okay. No, no, no, babe. Hayley, enjoy your steam, okay? You deserve it. All right, babe. I’ll see you at home. Oh, and you were right, by the way. Everything’s gonna work out fine. Better than fine. [playing gentle piano music] [laughter]

No, stop, stop, stop.

I know you’re out here saving civilization one pro bono case at a time, but I hate that the world doesn’t

get to hear you sing.

Oh, no, Gran.

I’m just happy I get to sing with you.

[door opens]

Are you kidding?

[door closes] Ugh. I rushed here, and Mom is not even here yet? Dani’s not late, and neither are you. Your grandfather is certain she’s going to show up here a changed woman. Oh, you don’t share his sunny forecast? I think that child of mine might actually be part tornado. Best case, I’m hoping this isn’t a prelude to more storms. Anita, have a little faith. Okay, sunshine. You might be right. Since she’s never announced her bad behavior in advance. I will remember that for next time.

Your mother meant no harm.

I know. She’s just worried like the rest of us. I know. And I realize… that none of this was fair to any of you. I put you all in an impossible situation, and still you backed me up. That’s what Duprees do. So, what’s the big announcement, Mom? Wait. Where’s Nicole? I don’t think I can do this twice. She’s wrapping up at the hospital. She’ll be here momentarily. We’ll fill her in. We just need to know what’s going on and whether or not we need to intervene. Just let her get it out. Go on, Dani. [clears throat] Nicole was clinical. Daddy was kind. Mother was matter-of-fact. Chelsea was blunt. Naomi was funny. You all said it, and still I couldn’t hear it. I couldn’t feel it. Until today. My marriage is dead, and I am finally ready to bury it. It’s really, finally, absolutely over. Where’s the applause? Isn’t this what you all wanted? ♪ ♪ I know, I know I’ve made similar noise before, but this is different. I am different. No more outbursts at weddings. No more bullet holes in the country club ceiling. No more forceful use of a golf club. I am done with all of it. Uh, it’s not that we don’t believe you, baby girl, but what is this about a golf club? And do I really want to know? Oh, uh, Mom recreated Beyoncé’s “Lemonade” video in Dad’s office. All of that was because I was stuck in a nightmare from which I could not wake up. But today, I woke up, standing right in front of Hayley.

Oh, how awkward for her.

And Bill? Wasn’t there. But I could still smell his damn cigars in the home that Hayley had someone else decorate where she is living with my husband. [Anita clears throat] And it was then that it struck me in the face, in the gut, in the heart, all at once. Bill is not my husband anymore.

He’s hers.

Mom. And I told Hayley, newly Hamilton, that she doesn’t matter to me anymore. Bill doesn’t matter to me anymore. Daddy, you used to say that words have power. And I tell you, when I said those words, for the first time in a long time, I felt free. And that is why I have called you all here tonight. Because as free as I felt back there, nothing is really real until I share it with my family. So, Mom, try me. You say that man’s name, and I will say, “Bill who?” Now, I know you can’t completely forget. But you can get over it, right? I was thinking about my first runway show tonight.

You remember that?

[laughter] I was strutting, and I fell flat on my ass. I laughed, I pulled myself up,

and I started strutting again.

Like you will now. That fall made my career. Before that, I was the daughter of Vernon and Anita Dupree. After that, I was Dani. One name, like Naomi or Cindy. Until I met Bill. I took his name, and I lost my own. Danielle… More than words, I know you all need action. Now, I can’t go back, but I can show you by being the best daughter, sister, mother and woman that I can be– the woman I should have been all along. And I am gonna take Chelsea to heights I never reached. I… I promise. That is my mission. I might stumble, but I am back on my feet and ready to strut again. I can’t speak for the whole family, but I believe you. Oh, Mom. Mom, anything you’d like to say? You’re wrong about only one thing. You are always, always a Dupree. Our girl has seen the light.

Can I get an amen?

Amen.

Can I get an A-woman?

A-woman!

Okay?

[laughter] Vernon, put on some music so we can see this strut.

Ma, it was a metaphor.

Oh, come on, Mom.

Come on, you got it.

Like you said, Duprees, we need words into action.

Let’s do it.

All right.

It’s been a minute.

Oh, you still got it.

[music playing]

You got it.

Oh, yes. Yes! Yes!

Take your time.

Oh!

[excited chatter]

Chin up, Mom. Chin up, Mom.

You get up here.

Come on up here.

[excited chatter] You still got it. Teach her, too. Come on! Come on!

Like mama, like daughter.

[excited chatter] [laughter] How the– how the kids do it. [laughter] Oh, baby, you still got it. Oh, my goodness, my goodness. You had us worried for a minute. I know. I know. I was scared.

No more worrying.

[excited chatter] [music continues]

Mama two-step. Hey!

Hey! ALL: Hey! Oh! Oh! Your generosity is appreciated, Joey. And unexpected. Now, Randy gave me a different impression on how you would take my request for assistance. Randy knows I only make an investment when I know I’ll make a return. Financially and personally. “Investments.” We are wielders of fate. You with your heart surgeries and me with my business. Wielders of fate, is that it? That’s it. We’ll be in touch. Well, thanks again, Joey. You-you saved my life. You have no idea. Yeah, I do. [door closes] [sighs] Doug has the worst poker face this side of the Potomac. You gave him money?

I did.

And it’s as good as gone. And you always say don’t throw good money after bad karma.

Friend or no.

I know. Then why float a sinker? He’s not good for it. Because I want Doug McBride in my debt. You have to understand, he’s no longer your friend. He’s a mark. And we’re going to make sure he digs a hole so deep, he’ll never escape it. Almost done. I hate being late for Dani. Dr. Richardson, we have a situation.

A trauma?

There’s a woman on the roof of the hospital threatening to jump. An RN tried to stop her, but she pushed her way past. The nurse said she asked for you by name and will only talk to you, alone. You’ll need a couple orderlies to go up there just in case things get hairy. No, no. If she sees anybody with Nicole, the woman may do something drastic. You can’t go up there without some kind of support. Ted, you just told me how much faith you have in my abilities. This woman needs me. We don’t want to do anything to spook her. I can talk her down. I swear I will be careful. Nicole. Nicole! WOMAN [over P.A.]: Nurse to pediatrics. Hello? I’m Dr. Richardson, but you can call me Nicole. I heard you asked for me. How can I help? ♪ ♪ [playing gentle piano music] [soft laughter] That’s a good one. Jacob, baby. How long have you been standing there? Stop looking so serious, bro-in-law. It’s a celebration. Dani has turned the page on all this Bill nonsense. Yes, I am officially done with Bill and Hayley. They cannot touch me anymore. Son, is this a social call or…? It’s a social visit. Jacob’s family. Tell them. Danielle Dupree, I’m here to place you under arrest for attempted murder. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you do or say will be used against you in the court of law. You have the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford one, one will be appointed for you. ♪ ♪

Sherry, no!

Leave my wife the hell alone. Because if you ever come for my wife again, I will destroy you. Dani, no one can take your dignity. Oh, my God. Wait. Derek! So you’re a congressman who’s itching to blow up. By that I mean run for president. Have you lost your ever-loving mind? You need to get out of here before it’s too late. Leave me alone, Little Miss Big Shot. I’ve got drinks to serve.

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Beyond The Gates Transcript

Transcript provided by Suzanne and Thane

THIS STILL NEEDS EXTENSIVE EDITING!

1 [soft chuckle] I need you at my place ASAP. Ah. You look as good in the daytime as you do at night. What’s up? Whew. Last night was amazing. [Andre chuckles] Bill, you home? Just beautiful. Oh! Sweetheart, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to scare you. No, i-it’s okay.

And I agree.

Mm. I get to call this elegant house

my home.

Mm-hmm. And this gorgeous, romantic, extremely hot man, my husband. You know, let’s have a party. I mean, look at this place. We have to show it off, like… But… nobody would come. They wouldn’t dare go against the Duprees. Yeah. That damn Dani. She’s danced through life because of her last name. And now, after actually firing a gun at our wedding, she gets off with barely a slap on the wrist. The good news is she’s done her absolute worst. You know, there’s nothing more that she or any of her family can do to hurt us now.

Yeah.

Right?

Yeah.

Mm… ♪ ♪

Hey, you.

Where have you been? I, uh, dropped off the dry cleaning, got the car washed. Kids? They’re still at school. They’re hanging out with their friends at the lacrosse game. It’s all on the calendar. Yeah, everything’s on the calendar… except for what matters. Clearly, we’ve progressed from the silent treatment of last night. I thought anything would be an improvement from that. But this? Not so much. I’ve got work to do. Hey, hold on. I need you to use your words and tell me why you stormed off this morning without saying goodbye. And why you haven’t answered a single one of my texts, okay? I didn’t know I was accountable to you for every action. It’s kind of in the fine print of the marriage license, Congressman. You’re accountable to me, and I’m accountable to you. And instead of shutting down, we are considerate of each other. You consider me? Really? Hey. Martin… …this is me considering you. Tell me what’s wrong. When were you gonna let me in on what you were planning?

I don’t– I wasn’t…

I heard. You had no problem with confiding in my mother last night. Oh. [sighs] That’s all you got? If you’re accountable to me and considerate of me… …why wouldn’t you tell me that you were thinking about going back to work as an investigative reporter? Oh, Ashley, not so fast. Our departmental rock star can’t leave for the day without giving you a little something-something. You’re kidding. I don’t need all this. Delivering a baby isn’t easy in the best of circumstances. Let alone in an elevator without any of the necessary equipment.

You can say that again.

I’m glad it wasn’t me. But you, Ashley, handled it with calm, skill and joy. And we wanted to honor that.

Aw…

[clears throat] Let the record show I taught this girl everything she knows. [laughter] Glad to have you on the team, Ashley. All I did was focus on helping that mother bring her baby safely into the world. That is one lucky baby girl. [laughs] Thank you. Daddy, no, you are not wearing that tired blue suit to Mom’s gala. I look fine in that suit. You will look old in that suit. TED: I thought you liked it. KAT: Only because you said you liked it. Well, your mother liked it. And she only said that because she knows you think it makes you look “fine.” Kat, are you telling me that the women in my life have been lying to me? Only because we love you. [laughs] So wear the black and make your ladies proud. What would I do without you? Be a lonely, sad, badly dressed old man. [mock groans] You are so lucky to have us. Oh, sorry. Dr. Richardson forgot a patient file and asked me to come get it. No problem, Eva. Have you met my daughter Kat? KAT: Oh, yes. Eva and I are practically BFFs. I came to pick up my things I left the other night. You should have called first.

Hmm?

They’re still in the wash. Oh, that’s a shame. They won’t smell like you. Let me be clear, Andre. What we shared the other night was wonderful. Mm-hmm. And it can never happen again.

You mean again, again?

I mean no kind of again. Mm. Okay, got it. No more. Never again. [chuckles] Nice pig. Where’d, uh… where’d you get it? I seem to have earned a fan page on Facebook for being a total badass. No leather. But how do you really feel about it? I like it.

Mm.

I spent so many years being the perfect lady on Bill’s arm. The new image suits the new me. Besides, Bill and that little witch deserved to have that sham of a wedding disrupted. Yeah, well, you certainly did that, Cowgirl Dani. And now I am putting away my six-shooter and moving on. I am officially leaving Bill and Faylee in my dust. Does that make me sound cold and heartless? Nah. You? The last thing I would ever call you is cold. All right, now go, Andre. My daughter’s coming over. Ah. Thanks for the explanation. I would hate to think that I was losing my touch. [chuckles] Later, Dani. Goodbye, Andre. [door closes] I got your message, Mom. What’s wrong now? If he has any questions, he can call me at home. Mm-hmm. I know. [chuckles] Okay. Yes. Thanks, Caroline. Thanks. She shouldn’t be bothering you on your honeymoon like that. Oh, it’s fine. And this case is really interesting. Yeah, babe, but that’s just because it’s relatively new to you, so… I think that it may be better that you leave now before you become disillusioned.

Are you firing me?

No. Never, babe. No, I just… I think it makes sense for you to resign. [scoffs] I’m not doing that, Bill. Baby, there is no need for you to continue working as a paralegal when there’s a busy social world ready to bow before the new Mrs. Bill Hamilton. But to quit my job? What is the issue? Well, Caroline and the rest of the staff are the only friends that I have here. And… plus, wouldn’t you miss seeing me at the office every day?

[chuckles]

Hmm? Believe me, baby, if I could spend every minute of every day in your arms, I’d be a very happy man. But I’m just thinking of you, that’s all. I think you should be a little more independent. Wouldn’t quitting my job make me more dependent? Mm. Maybe a little more pampered. Acceptance of this gift shall not be construed as an indication of intent for me to terminate my current employment.

[chuckles] Duly noted.

Okay. What’s the occasion? Just loving you. Well, that’s the gift, sweetheart. Nothing in this box can top that. Mm. Good.

A credit card.

Mm-hmm. And that card has no limit. It’s good everywhere, and you’ll never have to see a statement. That is real independence. Aw. I love you so much.

You better, baby.

Oh, thank you, thank you, thank you. You’re welcome. Ooh. I’m so sorry it’s taking me so long to clock out, babe, but I had to answer a couple patient calls, and I really want to get these handoff reports right. Take your time. I think I should send thank you notes to everybody for the gift basket and flowers. I mean, it’s too much. I was just doing my job. Andre was here, too. I’m sure the photographer was a lot of help. He really was. He has a good sense of humor.

And that kept mom-to-be calm.

[phone buzzes] Now, I just have to… [laughs] Andre found out that his aunt sent me flowers, and he gave me a daisy GIF…

Aw.

…to make sure he wasn’t left out. He spends, like, no money and gets a laugh. I drop serious cash, what do I get? You know, the best part of this whole thing is I made you proud. Always. No getting carried away at work. You’ll destroy my rep. Then let’s get out of here. Get busy in private. Okay, just a sec. Andre officially thanked, and now I just have to clock out. Please tell me you haven’t signed out yet. I was just about to, but… If you can hold off on that,

I could really use your help.

Sure. We are about to get slammed with new admissions, and the patient in 312 has been waiting hours for his discharge papers.

His doctor is…

I’ll handle it. And I’ll check in with you and see if you need any more help before we leave. Oh, that’d be great. Thanks, Ash. Sorry, Derek.

Derek…

I’ll hang out in the waiting room

until you’re done.

Thanks. Maybe text Naomi and Jacob. I feel like it’s been forever since we did one of our couples things.

All right, I’ll see if they’re free.

Great. So, Eva, how has it been working for my wife? Is there anything else that we can do to make your job easier here? Thanks, Ted, but I’m good. Working for Nicole is fun and kind of exciting. I’m sure it is. I mean, this is the first real job you’ve ever had, right?

Kat!

I checked out your social media, and all I could find were some pictures of you doing your friend’s hair. Oh, they’re clients, not friends. On a salon site where you worked for, like, a minute. Nothing else. Why is that? I apologize for my daughter. I did not raise her to grill anyone like this. It’s a simple question. What did Eva do for a living before Mom hired her? It’s okay, Ted. Kat doesn’t know me, and I get that she’s curious. The fact is, I’ve had a few side gigs, and I’ve always been good with hair, so it’s been an easy way for me to help my surrogate mom out with the bills. It’s been touch and go, financially, since her husband died. I think that is admirable, Eva. Now, can someone please tell me why my daughter is interrogating my assistant? I am asking questions you apparently didn’t bother to ask your new assistant about her background and experience. I can handle my own employees, Kat, thank you very much. I’m just trying to help. And I’ve got some bad news. I won’t be at your award ceremony. No, you have to be there. This is a major honor for your mother. I know, and I really am sorry, Mom. I would be there if I could, but I have got… this business thing out of town. If there are any last-minute details I can help with, though… We’ll figure it out. You and Eva. Got it. Oh, and I convinced Dad to ditch the blue suit. You’re welcome. I’m just glad you’re okay. You sounded strange

on the phone.

Well, hopefully I have left all strange behavior behind me. Then why the call? Is it about the video? Because I checked the stats and it seems to be finally running its course. Not entirely. Somebody made a creepy fan page? I don’t think it’s creepy. I think I look pretty damn good. Don’t you? This isn’t funny, Mom. If I hadn’t been recording… Hey, recording your life is part of the brand that we work so hard to create. There is no one here to blame but me. I acted a fool. Well, after the way Dad treated you… The most important thing is that we put your father and his child bride in our rearview. I can do that.

Can you?

Yes. Mom, if you keep letting them get to you, they win. We can’t have that. I am moving forward with the wonderful future that I planned for the two of us. The modeling world hasn’t seen half of what you’re capable of, but the two of us, working together, we will blow them away. Chelsea, from now on, you have all of me. Nicole, this tribute video, do you want me to make copies or distribute it to anyone? I think Andre has that covered. Oh, do you think we can get Andre to highlight that part where we were reminiscing

about when we first met?

Of course. We can take notes tonight and give them to Andre to edit. I can’t wait for the world to see you the way I always have. Working on your résumé? I’m putting the finishing touches on the constituent services article you asked me to draft for you. Oh. Forgot about that. Thanks. And thank you for giving me some time to cool down. I know you and I love you, Martin. And I was never gonna go back to work without talking to you first. So let’s talk. Okay. I hate it. Conversation over. Now who’s being selfish? I get to have a life, too. You don’t think being my husband and raising our kids is a life? Good to know. Do not even try that. I may not be a U.S. congressman or a member of the almighty Dupree family except by marriage, but it doesn’t mean that my needs and dreams are gonna be ignored by default. And I am not gonna put my life on hold just to avoid upsetting you. [door opens, closes] I promise. I’ll do better. Don’t make drunken promises, Rory. But when you sober up, try to remember there are people out here who will help you if you ask. And then? Ask. Take care of yourself, now. I didn’t realize I had an audience. Which makes you even more wonderful. That for me? Yeah, just trying to distract you from the fact that I’m interrupting you at your job. [Naomi clears throat] Something’s wrong. I work at a police station, Naomi.

Wrong is the norm.

No, no, no. Something’s wrong with you. Go ahead, start talking before I snatch that coffee back. I’m mad at myself for not doing anything to stop Dani at Bill and Hayley’s wedding. So that means your favorite cop is really bad at his job. [sighs] Let’s see. Okay. Oh… [sighs] Hey, cuz. Can’t talk long. I’m waiting for my date.

First date?

Skip the lecture. Tell me what you need. I need to vent after dealing with my mom and her little assistant. I’m picking up you don’t like the assistant. That’s because there is not a genuine bone in Eva’s fake ass and knockoff dress body. Uh-huh. Uh-huh what? You’re calling me a snob. Not out loud. I was thinking it real hard, though. Just because I don’t trust her and I’m sticking around to keep an eye on that sneaky little instigator does not mean… Oh. Gotta go. My date’s here. [sighs] Be careful, Chels. “Careful” is not in the plan for tonight. Okay. Thank you so much. EVA: Ashley. How are you doing? Hey, Eva. I’m good. You’ve been busy. That elevator baby is all anybody can talk about. Ah, I just did what anyone else would have done. Can I help you with something? Oh, I don’t know if you heard, but I’m filling in as Dr. Nicole Richardson’s assistant. ASHELY: I did hear. I’m glad we’ll sort of be working together. Right. I need to check on accessing files for a new admission. Oh, we just added it to the system. Eva, you should be good now. Oh, thanks. Naomi and Jacob are a go for drinks. Oh, I’m so glad they can make it. Night, Shanice. Thanks again for your help today. Anytime. You are going to enjoy working with Dr. Richardson. She’s the best.

Thanks. Bye.

Bye. Babe. Let’s go meet Ashley and Derek. I have to come back to work after, though. You know, I hate that you blame yourself for what happened at my dad’s wedding. Yeah, it was bugging me so much, I had to speak to my father about it. What did Elon say? That it wasn’t a dereliction of duty on my part, so… The chief of police should know.

[sighs]

You were being a good guy, like always, standing by your wife. You did it for me. Girl, I find it damn near impossible to say no to you.

[laughs]

You know that? The feeling is mutual. And now that Dad is married and Mom has thrown a public fit, the family drama is over and we can go back to normal.

Okay?

Okay.

Come on.

Yeah, let’s go. I’m serious. I’m literally the most boring person

on the planet.

Are you sure? There’s a lot of competition out there. I’ve got them all beat. I thought about lying to folks and telling them I’m a fighter pilot or an astronaut. Anything other than a tech nerd. Tech nerds are the new rock stars. You’re thinking about billionaire tech nerds. That’s the kind of guy that should be here with you. I mean, you’re a top model and a prominent social influencer, and yet you sit there. God, you’re gorgeous. Listening to me drone on. I am much too ordinary to be with someone like you. I think ordinary looks good on you. Guess it’s time to start being interesting. [chuckles] Let’s get this party started. Don’t worry. I’m unarmed. You don’t have to be carrying to be dangerous, Dani. And yet you let me in. Better for you to say what you came to say in here than on the doorstep. This is nice. Bill hired Glorietta Interiors, am I right? I’m sure you didn’t come here to judge my living room. Nervous, Hayley? If you try anything, Bill is right upstairs. Daddy to the rescue. We did think of you as a daughter at one point. Now I’m not here for Bill. I was, uh, talking to Chelsea, and I realized that if I am going to step into my future, I need to slam the door on my past. So I am here to have a long overdue conversation, woman to woman. I’ll settle for you. I will not allow you to abuse me in my own home. Oh, aren’t you special? Demanding that kind of courtesy after abusing my trust in my home?

We’ve already discussed–

Had this out? Not even close. It would be one thing if you were some girl I had never met. But you knew me, Hayley. Had my phone number in your phone and never hesitated to use it. I gotta give you your props, though. You never let on. You were sleeping with my husband and there wasn’t even a lift in your eyebrow to signal that change. You could have distanced yourself from me, stopped making yourself comfortable in my living room, but you never let your mask drop. You lied and kept on lying with every hug and every smile. Look, I never meant to do– Nobody cares what you meant. What matters is what you did. What you did to me? Bad. But what you did to my daughter? To Naomi? There is no measure for the depth of that betrayal. Do you have any idea how guilty she feels for befriending you, only to have you turn around and become her stepmother? Are you ashamed yet, Hayley? Because you should be. Why do you think I asked Bill to back off with you? I’m not proud of what I did. The thought of hurting you and Naomi really cut me deep inside– Spare me the crocodile tears. You had your eyes set on becoming Mrs. Bill Hamilton, and you didn’t care that the position was already taken. Look, I am sorry, Dani. Look, I said it before, and I hope you can hear it this time. I hear you. And you’ll be even sorrier. Are you threatening me? I’m informing you. The fairy tale never tells you how Prince Charming can become a real son of a bitch once that ring goes on your finger. I have wasted enough time on you and Bill, so I will keep my distance. And I suggest you do the same. That’s my best offer. Take it. Okay. Must have been my imagination, but I could have sworn I just heard Dani’s grating tone in here. No, she was just here. Wha… Baby, you should have called me. [sighs] Look, I think, in her own way, Dani came by to…. offer an olive branch. She said she needed to get some things off her chest so she could move on. Babe, no, okay? That– That’s her story for today, okay? And tomorrow, she’ll find another excuse to make our lives a living hell. Hayley, baby. Hey, look at me. Hey, listen. I need you to hear me well. Okay? You cannot trust Dani. [sighs]

Hi, guys.

Hey. Got your text. There’s a virgin mojito

and an NA beer headed this way.

Okay.

Thanks, man.

Yeah. So, tell us about your new job.

It’s great.

NAOMI: Yeah?

Okay. Wait. Is that Chelsea over there?

It is.

And who’s the guy? Probably some guy hitting on her, like always. Or is it the other way around this time? [laughter] Fascinating as your sister’s sex life always is, I’d much rather talk about the fascinating ladies at this table.

Yes.

Well, I heard somebody got flowers today, and it wasn’t me. [laughs] Derek gave them to me. Plus, she got a bouquet from all her friends at the hospital. Wow. You’re raking it in, Ash. Maybe I should deliver babies in an elevator more often.

[laughter]

Just say when. Hey, Andre. My partner in crime. More like birthing partner. Hey, sort of cousin. So Andre is my Uncle Ted’s nephew. You got all kinds of connections at the table. Are you busy? You want to join us?

I don’t want to intrude.

DEREK: No, you’re not. Any friend of my girlfriend is someone I’d like to know. Okay. Yeah. Get a chair. What are you doing here? Grabbing a drink? Eh, just around.

NAOMI: Just around?

In and out. You’re so mysterious. [laughter] I didn’t mean to sound insensitive or uncaring. You know I love you. Sometimes I wonder. Never doubt that. I couldn’t fathom what my life would be without you in it. And yes, I admit I don’t want you to go back to work. It’s true. But the traditional family optics of a stay-at-home parent, it’s what works best for the game plan. And you raising our kids projects stability in our lives. And me going back to work projects that there’s a whole country full of stable families with two working parents. We could be one of them. We can’t just look like an ordinary family. We have to be extraordinarily ordinary. For you to achieve your goals.

Our goals.

No, Martin. Your goals. Everything you just said is about you. Your goals, your needs. Most of all, your need for me to be a househusband for you to achieve them. And I’m sorry, but that’s not good enough for me. Not anymore. And what happens when you stumble across a big story? Somebody higher up the food chain will take it and run with it. No way. You might not remember what a great reporter you are, but I do. They will see how shrewd and astute you are, and you will become front and center. Martin, I need this.

What about what I need?

Look… …we don’t have to deal with this right now. Don’t handle me, Smitty. Listen to me. You will stick to the role you promised and let this job idea go. Am I understood? Yeah. You are. Well, if Dani’s willing to call a truce, I could have a real chance at being accepted here in Fairmont Crest. [sighs] Expecting peace from Dani is a fantasy that will never be realized, babe. Maybe it will. Please, give it a chance. Even if it doesn’t have a chance in hell of working? Bill… All right. [chuckles] I’ll do anything for you. [laughter] I was a wreck when I realized that baby was coming but the elevator wasn’t. Oh, man. But Ashley? Total pro. She didn’t even flinch.

JACOB: Wow.

She knew exactly what to do. Oh, I flinched. And I didn’t have a clue. No one could tell. [exhales] Sounds terrifying. I thought I was going to lose it. But Andre kept his cool. He said all the right things. He made sure we were both calm and focused. You saved the day. I’m sure you could have managed just fine without the towel.

[laughter]

JACOB: Okay. I still can’t get over the fact that Alex named her daughter after us.

Mm.

Wow.

DEREK: Whenever anyone asks where that child got the name “Ashley Andrea,” she’s gonna have hell of a story to tell.

NAOMI: Yeah.

Ashley and I and that baby will always have that link. Well, not much of one, right? It’s not like y’all are gonna be spending too much time together in the future. Well, I don’t know about that. Miracles always leave some kind of mark.

Okay.

Yeah, I guess.

Let’s-let’s drink to that.

Okay.

Cheers.

Cheers.

Cheers. This is my brilliant plastic surgeon husband, Dr. Ted… [door opens] This is getting to be a habit. Well, this has been fun, but I really should be going. So soon? Why? What did you have in mind? Um, my place. I thought you’d never ask. [pop song playing] Hey, honey. Chelsea, this is my wife, Allison. I’ve been dying to meet you. I don’t know. Something just came over me. Like, I-I can’t even remember how I did it. I think just– adrenaline just told me what to do.

It had to.

DEREK: That’s scary, right?

Yeah.

I got a thing, so… Oh, okay.

Thanks for joining us.

Yeah.

Hey, thanks for the drink.

Sure thing. We’ll do it again sometime.

Good to see you, Naomi.

You too, Andre. Ashley. See you around. Don’t deliver any babies without me. [soft laughter] Want another drink? Um… I think I’m ready for home.

Then I am, too.

[laughs]

Night, guys.

Oh. Good night.

Thanks for making this happen tonight.

DEREK: Yes. Here we go.

Wow. Well, see you soon.

Thanks, babe. Mm-hmm. Seems like everyone has someplace they can’t wait to be. So do we. We just can’t get there for a few more hours. [groans] Have I told you lately how lucky I am to have you in my life? I was thinking the exact same thing. And if we ever forget that… We won’t. All right? We won’t let that happen. I promise. Come on. I want to thank you for being there for me, Caroline. Maybe I can take you out to a nice lunch at the country club to show my gratitude? [Hayley laughs] Yes. Okay. Yes, we will take an extended lunch hour. I’ll clear it over with the boss. Ooh, yeah, I’d like that, too. Pick a date. Uh-huh. Dani? No more worries there. All right. Bye. ♪ ♪ ♪ You got me like a heart attack♪ ♪ Diggin’ ya soul♪ ♪ I think about you all the time♪ ♪ Making it known♪ ♪ It’s seriously something, babe♪ ♪ Holding you back♪ ♪ I’m waiting on yo other line♪ ♪ But can’t wait for too long♪ ♪ I like this so far♪ ♪ I want you around♪ ♪ It’s only one thing, eh♪ ♪ That’s keeping us down♪ ♪ You keeping your cool, huh♪ ♪ I’m high on you now♪ ♪ Just tell me one thing, what♪ ♪ This zone is about♪ ♪ Darling, don’t you lead me on♪ ♪ Darling, don’t you lead me wrong♪ ♪ Call me when you need me home♪ ♪ I wantcha, I need you in my space♪ ♪ Tell me when the timing’s off♪ ♪ Tell me when you feel it strong♪ ♪ Honey, if you need me gone♪ ♪ If so, hey, I’ll see you round my way♪

♪ Ya poppa was a rolling stone♪

♪ But I can dig that♪

♪ Ya mama was controller-prone♪

♪ Like I could fix that♪ ♪ The habits always hard to break♪ ♪ I feel a mismatch♪ ♪ The last one was hard to take♪ ♪ So this ya get back♪

♪ You never really let me in♪

♪ I wanna be down♪

♪ So I settle for you as a friend♪

♪ Could be your rebound♪ ♪ And I don’t want to try to pressure it…♪ I object.

Dani, no!

[guests screaming] ♪ ♪ [sighs] I need to see you right away.

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Beyond The Gates Transcript

Transcript provided by Suzanne and Thane

THIS STILL NEEDS EXTENSIVE EDITING!

Eva?

EVA: Morning, Nicole. I’ve confirmed your appointments, sorted your emails and restocked the office supplies. Already? I haven’t even had my morning coffee. Well, Mona gave me the rundown on how you like things to run smoothly, as well as your coffee order. Sugar-free latte with oat milk, light foam and two pumps of caramel.

Let me put it in now.

That won’t be necessary. I’m headed to the country club to have breakfast with my family. Did I forget to text you that today would be a late start? I got the message, but I just wanted to come correct to make a good impression on my first day. Mission accomplished. Thanks. Although there were some emails I wasn’t too sure about. Before we get into that, we need to discuss the elephant in the room. And don’t act like you don’t know what I’m talking about. Laura’s surgery is confirmed for tomorrow. Poor thing’s gonna be laid up for a while. She was about to live her best life. Off to Hawaii on a romantic getaway with the boy toy, then bam! She gets run off the road, crashes her car and breaks her leg? Talk about the worst luck. [engine revving] [tires squealing] [car crashes] It’s nice how your bosses have stepped up for her. They did? How? Oh, Nicole and Ted are covering her medical expenses. Ted Richardson even admitted her to his private clinic. They’re treating Laura like family. Do the police have any leads on who did this to her? I haven’t heard of any, but I have been thinking. [Jan exclaims] All that late-night true crime binging paying off?

Girl, you know I’m obsessed.

[laughing]: Yeah. So, the crash happened near some warehouses. I bet the police pulled the security footage. So, it’s only a matter of time. Wow. [indistinct police radio chatter] ♪ ♪ [sighs] ♪ ♪ What elephant in the room? Eva, let’s not play dumb. By now, I know that you’ve seen the drama that unfolded at Bill and Hayley’s wedding fiasco. [sighs] Oh, you mean hashtag Shotgun Wedding? That’s the one. I was trying not to bring it up. My job is to make your day easier, not remind you of stress from your personal life.

I’m sure it’s been hard enough.

Oh, you don’t know the half. But my family will get through it. We always do. I’ve heard that about the Duprees. That when stuff happens, you guys circle the wagons. Must be nice. It’s nice when you can help, not so much when you can’t. Will your sister be okay? If she stays offline. I can only imagine the Internet’s having a field day. I’m not making excuses for Dani, and she has owned up to all of it. But she’s mourning the life she thought she’d have. The life she felt she deserved. Rejection like that can make anyone lash out. Oh, I get it. More than you know. Well, that was brutal. Someone brought the heat today. Whatever’s gotten into you, I love it. Well, then give yourself a pat on the back.

Me?

Left to my own devices, I avoid the gym like a plague. But you… [sighs] know which buttons to push. I guess I don’t want to let you down. Oh. My husband. [Vanessa chuckles] Leslie, I got to hand it to you. Suggesting that Eva fill in for Laura was a stroke of genius. Does that mean it’s going well? Still too early to tell. It’s just the first day. Don’t worry. Eva has what it takes to not only do the job but thrive at it. I spent some time schooling her. She soaked it up like a sponge. Filled up that little spiral notebook so fast, I thought smoke was gonna come off the pages. [laughter] Always a good sign. [laughter] Well, I did drill into her head that you only get one shot at a first impression. Sounds like it took root. Eva’s such a sweet girl, and she’s so eager to please. I remember her saying she was looking for a new direction in life. Well, if she keeps up this attitude, whichever path she chooses, sky’s the limit. That’s the master plan. ♪ ♪ ♪ ♪ Who the hell are you? EVA: Oh, hi. We haven’t met yet. I’m Eva, Dr. Richardson’s new assistant. And you’re her daughter? A qualified assistant would already know that. Just wanted to make sure. Kat, right? I’ve heard all about you from Mona. She and my surrogate mom are friends. Surrogate mom? My biological mother died when I was little. Leslie took me in and raised me as her own. We recently moved here from Chicago and met Mona at church. Now it makes sense. Who you know got you this gig. Sure wasn’t your professional style. Your mother said the vibe was more of a relaxed work environment. Is that why you thought it was okay to go snooping through her desk? Snoop? No. I was just hunting for… a stapler. Oh, like that one over there? Ah, right in front of me. [laughs] I’m still getting familiar with the office. Shouldn’t you be meeting your mom at the country club? You’ve been here all of, what, ten minutes, and you’re already in my business? Well, I only mention it because Nicole said your family was having breakfast.

So I just thought that…

That’s your first mistake. So we’re clear, you handle my mom’s schedule, not mine. Do not concern yourself with what I’m doing or where I’m going. Fair enough. I didn’t mean to offend you. Also, my dad’s overseeing Laura’s care. She’ll be back on her feet soon enough, so don’t get comfortable. We all want Laura back, including me. Hey. [chuckles] This went south real fast. Let’s start over. No need. This is a short-term assignment. Maybe even shorter than you think. [birds chirping] Look at you, making time for breakfast. Feels like forever since we’ve done this. It has been a minute, hasn’t it? I hope you haven’t been feeling neglected. I get it. Emergencies happen. Although it does seem it’s been nonstop lately. It’s that time of year, post holidays, after people overindulge. Plus the common cold combined with the seasonal flu. I guess cardiac surgeons will always be in high demand. But can’t you refer some cases out before you have a heart attack? I know I need to set boundaries. It’s just hard turning people away that’s going through it. They come to me scared, confused, holding on to hope. Makes me think how I would want my loved one’s doctor fighting for my family with everything they’ve got. [sighs] Your patients are lucky to have you. I am, too. So… [laughter]

Hi.

Hello. Getting slow in your old age.

Hey, cut it out.

I said what I said. I guess we could have squeezed in a few more baskets since the family hasn’t arrived yet. You’re only saying that because I was beating you for once. Hey, don’t get cocky. I already told you, I wasn’t properly stretched.

Sure.

[phone vibrating] Congressman Richardson. No, I won’t comment on the wedding. But if you would like to hear the proposed changes to the national defense bill my subcommittee dr– I didn’t think so. I love my aunt, and I respect her privacy. Quote that. No wonder they say real journalism is dead. The press isn’t gonna let up. I wouldn’t. You were a serious reporter who covered issues that mattered. Not like these vultures, just looking for clickbait. I also knew not to take no for an answer. This is why I wait it out. This is the United States of Amnesia. Next week, another scandal pops up, and Aunt Dani’s drama is ancient history, never to be unearthed again. What did you say your name was again? This is it, honey. Ooh, it’s the day I-I’ve dreamed about. [laughs] You are finally gonna be where you should’ve been all along. In your father’s house. I never met a man like him before. And he never loved a girl like me. I’m sorry for what he did to you, Mama. To us. To us. I-I will pass that along. I’m sorry to barge in. I’m looking for Dr. Richardson. I’m the other Dr. Richardson, her husband Ted. Oh, I know who you are. You must be the new assistant that’s stepping in for Laura.

Yes.

And your name? Oh, right. Sorry. It’s Eva. Eva Thomas. Pleasure to meet you, Eva. We’re happy that you’re on board. Happy that you’re here. [quiet chatter] Sorry to intrude. You’re always welcome at our table.

Isn’t that right, Doug?

Oh, yeah.

How’s it going, Diego?

Good, thanks. I just heard from my cousin who’s moving into the area. He has deep pockets, and he saw this listing online that he’s crazy about. It’s actually one of yours. Delightful. Which one? Constitution Avenue. Grand entrance, killer view to the Capitol. The Coleman Estate. And it is available immediately. When will your cousin be in town? We can arrange a viewing. Uh, he was hoping that I could take a first look. VANESSA: Of course. I can show you the property after breakfast. You could even take some videos to give your cousin a virtual tour. Thank you, Ms. McBride. You’re the best. I’ll swing by in a few. Doctor. [laughing] Oh. Oh. Oh, that’s bad. [laughing] Are you all watching that Bill and Hayley wedding mess again? You could probably lip-synch the whole thing by now. Well, I can’t get over the look on Bill’s face. I mean, he actually thought he could humiliate his ex and get away with it. I’m with you. That man had it coming. Flaunting his infidelity like that. Having a wedding at the country club. Buying his mistress-now-wife a house in the neighborhood. Where all their old friends would see them. The audacity. Lady Karma is patient, but when she strikes… Mm. Too bad Dani’s aim wasn’t as patient. I’m almost sorry she missed.

Oh.

[Jan laughing] Oh, come on, Mona. You have to admit he had it coming. I don’t find it funny. Nicole is my girl, and this mess is wearing her and the whole Dupree family down. How would you feel if your family’s dirty laundry was exposed for the whole world to kee-kee at? [smacks lips] She makes a point. They must be mortified. Good thing they have a shrink in the family. And it’s weighing on Nicole. She’s the one holding everybody down. One of these days, it’s gonna be too much for her. There you are. Sorry I’m late. Is your brother here yet? Martin and Smitty are already inside. But before you go in, we need to talk. Of course, sweetheart. What’s on your mind? Mom, I met your new assistant. Great. I was hoping you and Eva would hit it off. You have so much in common. You’re joking. So it’s like that? Regardless of what you may think of Eva, she is already doing a fantastic job.

I think you can do better.

Why do you say that? Because I caught her snooping around your desk. She is still getting acquainted with the office. And she seems mad shady. You are not always a beacon of sunshine yourself, young lady. Are you sure you just didn’t make her nervous? Can you just trust me on this? My reads on people are usually spot-on. Let me help you with this. I use this app to staff Dad’s office. Give me till the end of the hour, and I will have a hundred resumes with more relevant experience than hairstyling. And given her IG, she’s not even good at that. Katherine Richardson, I raised you better than to be this judgmental. I’m being cautious. You would think this family would’ve learned their lesson after what Hayley put us through. What are you saying, Kat? That I didn’t do my due diligence? This might surprise you, but I did more than scan a few posts and make a silly assessment on her clothes. I interviewed Eva myself, checked her references, one of which is a close friend I trust. Now, are there any other of my employees you would like to replace, or can we finally have breakfast? I was hoping to catch my wife so we could drive to the country club together, but my morning ran long, and it seems like I just missed her. Seems like you got a good handle on things here. I’m doing my best, Dr. Richardson.

[phone vibrates]

Uh, call me Ted. I’m sure your best is fantastic. Nicole was looking for someone to step right in, and you’re making my wife’s life a whole lot easier. You don’t have to say that. Sure I do. My job is to make Nicole’s life happy, and you’re helping me do so. So, keep up the good work.

Hey, what’s up?

I was hoping you had a minute to talk about Laura’s hit-and-run. I’ll give you some privacy. Excuse me. TED: So, what did you find out? I’ve given Laura this update as well. We pulled the security footage from near the crash site, but it wasn’t much help. The motorcycle that caused it was a popular model. Can’t catch every crotch rocket in D.C., huh? What about the license plate? Removed. And the driver’s face was obscured by a helmet. I made a few calls, got our best guys to enhance it, but they couldn’t do anything with the video. TED: No witnesses have come forward? None. And no evidence at the scene either. Just some skid marks from Laura’s car. Look, Ted, I hate to say it, but we’ve hit a dead end. Look at our Deanna looking like Ms. Collegiate on the quad. She’s so bundled up with all those hats and scarves,

you can barely see her face.

[laughing] She is still adorable. Oh, is that the time? I got to bounce before the hospital starts paging.

A poker chip?

Oh, must be from the charity casino night here at the country club.

I got it.

Okay. All right. I love you.

Doug.

Ah, Ted.

Catch you on the flip?

Yes. [quiet chatter] I ordered your usual. Should be out any sec. Good looking from my good-looking. Any word from Dani? Actually, I was just telling the kids she sounded okay on the phone. Well, okay for Dani. Her friend Pamela is treating her to a spa day. Which is a good move. It gives her a chance to chill out and keeps her out of the public eye. That’s Martin-speak for the less attention she gets, the better his poll numbers. Well, you better brace for impact, bro. That video made The Shade Room, The Breakfast Cluband TMZ. And it’s still trending with no signs of slowing down. We may need to hook Aunt Dani up with a permanent membership to that spa. Let’s not anticipate the worst. This could all blow over. I wouldn’t count on it. Your perspective is all screwed up from your time in Congress. For them, scandal is just another word for Tuesday. [laughter] This is a small community with a long memory. People still come for me for all the dumb stuff I did back in the day. You’re too young for “back in the day.” What are we talking about, sis? Middle school. [laughter] How are your folks holding up? Must be rough. Vernon and Anita have always been grace under pressure. Yeah, but this is different. Dani’s pain cuts Mother and Daddy deep. Your babies are always your babies, no matter how grown they get. [sighs] I rushed over as soon as I saw your text.

Why aren’t you at your new job?

I’m running errands for Nicole. She won’t expect me back for a while. Okay. So what happened? It’s nothing bad. Everything is fine. Better than fine, actually. Nicole likes me so much, you could be looking at her new employee of the month. Okay, well, if everything’s fine, then why did you need to see me? Mama, I met him. I met my father. Lord have mercy. Spill it. Spill it all.

Every last drop.

Okay, okay. Well, he strolled in looking for Nicole, but she was out. So he introduced himself to me. He shook my hand like I was any other employee. I mean, that’s it, really. Sounds like he didn’t have time for a proper meet. Oh, I hope you’re not too disappointed, honey. No, well, we actually got interrupted. Well, he probably thought I was intimidated or whatever by him, anyway. Mom, I was so shook, I could barely string two words together. Who cares what he thought? What’d you think of him? Well, I can see now how someone as innocent as you were could have fallen for him. That man thinks he’s God’s gift to Black women everywhere. Hmm. But I knew his good guy routine was all cap.

Hmm.

Smoke and mirrors, Ma. It means he’s faker than knockoff Gucci. He talked about “Nicole this” and “Nicole that” and how he just wanted to make her happy. Yeah, there’s some truth to that. He dropped everything for Nicole. He was smiling in my face, laying it on thick, thinking I was gonna fall for his game like everyone else. Good thing you didn’t. I’m his daughter, and not a flicker of recognition. And why would there be, huh? Since he walked away from us and never looked back. All I could think about was how he did you dirty. And how scared you must have been to face the world as a single mom. Sounds like you handled yourself very well. [sighs] My heart was beating so loud, I was worried he could hear it. I should’ve put him on blast right then and there. Soon enough, baby girl. Soon enough. Our day is just around the corner.

Pops.

Good to see you, son. [sighs] I appreciate you making time for some coffee. I know you got a million things on your plate. No sweat at all. I’m always looking for a good excuse to escape headquarters. Rather be out here with the rank and file, you know? Especially when it’s with you or your brother. Things to think about before accepting the promotion to chief of police. Who knew that high-ranking title came with a ball and chain? Yeah, I didn’t have much of an option. It was either that ball and chain or retire and be one to your mother. [laughs] So how’s your day? Man. I just had to break it to Ted Richardson that the security footage of the car crash is damn near useless. We may never ID the biker who ran Laura off the road. Yeah, the Richardsons are not used to hearing no. He didn’t come at you sideways, now, did he? Nah. Ted knew it was a long shot. [sighs] Something’s eating at you. Come on, Pops. You know exactly what’s wrong. [sighs] I was at the wedding when Dani pulled her weapon, and I didn’t stop or arrest her. I had a duty to act, and I neglected it. [sighs] I know I let you down. I’m all in. Show me the money. Come on. Come… It’s all good. It’s all good. W-We still in this. We still in this. [sighs] I wish I’d known about Dani’s spa day. I would’ve cleared my work schedule to keep her company. Aren’t you generous? It’s a sacrifice I’d be willing to make. Got to show solidarity with my girl. Jokes aside, I appreciate the neighborhood standing behind Dani, even when my sister doesn’t make it easy. You can always count on me. I’d better get going. I have a listing to show. Uh, I should, too. Where are Martin and Smitty? In the lobby, schmoozing with one of Martin’s donors. Are you heading to the hospital? I can meet you there and show you the research I did on that laser equipment you mentioned. That’ll work. See you later. At least Dad trusts my instincts. Kat, I do not doubt your business acumen for a second. You have done wonders for your dad’s private practice. Then why won’t you listen to me about Eva? Profit margins are one thing. Interpersonal relationships are another. When it comes to people, you have a blind spot. And I think you have a blind spot when it comes to Eva. Come on, Mom. Tell me you didn’t do a double take when you saw Eva’s tacky boots. You’re a psychiatrist. Your assistant should be professional and pulled together like Laura. Or casual and relatable like Eva. She was rude to me. Were you rude first? Be honest. You should listen to me, Mom. I have a sixth sense about these things, and that girl is sus. You’re gonna regret ever bringing her into our lives. I met another member of that family today. The congressman? Martin? I thought you were being bitter when you called Kat a spoiled princess, but now that I’ve seen her for myself, she’s actually worse. That young woman reeks of arrogance. She has a stank attitude, too. Took one look at me and decided I was worth less than the dirt on the bottom of her stiletto heel. I know the feeling. She basically told me to pack my desk and dropped hints about me getting fired. Okay, here’s how you handle that one. Stay quiet, stand tall and picture the look on her face when she realizes that she’s not Daddy’s only daughter. I hope her Louboutins are comfortable, because she’s about to fall hard off that pedestal. [chuckles] Well, her brother isn’t as bad. Well, unfortunately, he wasn’t there. Neither was his husband. But Naomi’s husband Jacob did drop by to talk to Ted about some police business. Ah, well, they’re probably investigating Dani going gun crazy at the country club. Mm-mm. That’s what I thought, too. He’s actually investigating Laura’s car crash. I think you’re being too hard on yourself. Come on, Pops. I don’t need you making excuses for me. When have I ever done that? I hear you, son. You feel like you dropped the ball, but there’s more than one kind of duty.

What do you mean?

You’re a family man now. You have a responsibility to your wife as well as the badge. Yeah, but to just ignore a crime… You can’t always rush in half-cocked, son. In the heat of the moment, a good cop trusts his gut. And you may not always get it right, but in this case, I think you did just fine. Fine? People could have gotten hurt because I hesitated. But they didn’t. And Dani turned herself in. Yeah, I didn’t think she was gonna do that. Yeah, but you know the Duprees. They handle their business and weren’t about to let this mess go on and have their name drug through the mud. And they didn’t. It all worked out fine. So you think I’m torturing myself for no good reason. Take a page from The Beatles, son. Let it be. [sighs] Dr. McBride, has Lady Luck decided to find you yet? On her way. If only the house could spot me a little something to win what I lost, I can have it back to you tonight. Maybe tomorrow at the latest. Unfortunately, that doesn’t follow company policy. Got to clear the tab before we can extend any more credit. How about I get you a suite for later? Nah, that’s okay. I appreciate you, though. Holler at me if you need anything else. [line ringing] Hey, listen, man, I need to see you. You mind stopping by? SMITTY: Hey. If you’re having me time, I can go listen to Martin

work over a donor.

Boy, sit. I’ve been meaning to check up on my favorite son-in-law, anyway.

[sighs]

How’s your world these days? Uh, good. Tyrell and Samantha are, you know, teenagers. So they’re doing their own thing. Not interested in sharing every detail of their day

with Daddy anymore?

No. They’re growing up. Martin and I aren’t empty nesters yet, but… [sighs] it’s close. And I’m not gonna lie, I’m already starting to feel kind of lost. It happens to the best of us. All the time I spent driving them around and making their lunches and reading them bedtime stories. It does seem like yesterday. Well, now I have hours to myself, but for what? I mean, there are only so many political podcasts I can listen to before I feel like the world’s about to implode. That is why they keep the news running 24/7.

It’s meant to draw in worriers like you.

Yeah. Have you thought about channeling that energy into something positive? I am on three parent committees, Nicole. I mean something positive for you, not your children. You have an activist spirit. You want to do good. Have you considered joining Martin’s team? You mean having my husband as my boss? [laughs] Okay, when you say it like that, it definitely sounds like a recipe for disaster. You know, I did have a thought about getting back into reporting. There’s nothing like the rush of being on the scent of a big story.

That sounds promising.

We’ll see. I did reach out to some former colleagues, just put out some feelers, just to gauge the level of interest. So this is more than just a thought. How does Martin feel about it? I haven’t told him yet. If what Mona told me was right

and Laura’s accident wasn’t an accident…

Okay, listen. I know Mona loves her tea, but that doesn’t make any sense. Look, maybe the driver was drunk or showing off, but intentional? The police have it on camera, but the motorcycle didn’t have any plates. Which means whoever did it wanted to make sure they couldn’t be tracked. What is the world coming to? I can’t see how anyone would want to hurt an innocuous girl like that. Wonder if Jacob will be able to find the driver despite the missing license plate. I doubt it. He has nothing to go on. It’s like he’s chasing a ghost. That just burns my grits. Huh. I pray they get that culprit. What’s wrong? You look troubled. I’m sorry, but I just… I can’t shake this feeling of guilt. Honey, you are not the one that ran Laura off the road. No, but I’m benefiting from it. I mean, here I am, sliding into her job, which strangely fits perfectly into our plans. Meanwhile, Laura is laid up in the hospital. Yeah, well, people are blessed with good fortune every day. All right? So there’s no reason for you to blame yourself for an opportunity that fell into your lap. But did it? I know it’s crazy for me to go there, but I just keep thinking about how you’ve rented bikes before when you got the urge to ride. I did, but what in the world are you… Just help me get this out of my head, Mama. Tell me you had nothing to do with that crash. Oh, thank God you’re here. Yo, my man. This high-roller table is calling my name, but the casino won’t lend me another dime. Is that why you pulled me away from my breakfast rib eye? What do you expect me to do about it? You work for the owner. Can’t you vouch for a brother? [sighs] How deep are you in, man? Seriously, Doug, do I look like your fairy godmother? I swear on my mama, I’m good for it. Don’t you dare bring your mama into this. She would snatch your behind if she heard. Come on, Randy. I’m desperate here. See, and that right there is the problem. You and me, we go back to the sandbox, and you know I would take a bullet for you, but I won’t help you dig your own grave. And that’s damn well what’s gonna happen if we start throwing my boss’s good money over bad. Don’t you got a-a rainy day stash somewhere? Even if I did, I wouldn’t throw it down your bottomless pit. What about your wife? Isn’t Vanessa’s family loaded? Out of the question. So is my boss. Joey’s not what you would call a sympathetic guy, and I want to keep both my kneecaps. So do you. I guess I’m S.O.L. [sighs] Not if you swallow your pride. Go to Vanessa. “For richer or for poorer,” remember? [sighs] Ready to go whenever you are. I’m free right now. Let’s get the party started. Just wait until you see the property. It has an elegant staircase, vaulted ceiling, large windows… Uh, that’s not the type of party I’m talking about. What do you think you’re doing? I’m giving you what you want. About damn time. [Vanessa panting] We will have to finish our chat later. Oh, um, it’s the committee meeting for the annual teachers’ appreciation gala. Don’t have too much fun. Bye. I actually should be getting back myself. Um, actually, Mom, would you mind staying? I have something I want to discuss. I hope it isn’t bad news. God knows we’ve had enough of that as of lately. Then what’s the good news? I’ve been thinking about the next step of my career. Oh, I don’t know how helpful I could be with that. Usually when it comes to politics, you consult with your grandfather. I’m planning to speak to Granddad, too, but it just feels like you need to be the first one to know. You running for reelection to Congress wouldn’t be a surprise. No, I haven’t made a commitment yet, but I’m considering running… for president. Oh, my God. Martin, that is wonderful! [laughs] How could you even let that thought cross your mind?

I know it sounds crazy.

It sounds ridiculous! Your whole plan was for me to get a job with the Richardsons. At the club or the clinic or even with Ashley at the hospital, once we got to know her. And maybe that plan went out the window when the opportunity with Laura popped up.

Oh, my…

So what’d you do?

Hire a hit man just to get me closer to the Duprees?

What? That is absurd! How could you even say something like that? How could you even think I would consider doing something like that? After all we have been through, even after… after all this time, you really think your mother is capable of such a heinous crime? Oh, my… No, no, no. Of course not. Look, look, look, I’m sorry, okay? I-I just couldn’t get it out of my head, and I had to ask to be sure. Are you getting cold feet? Is that what this is about? Because if it is, I already told you, and I meant when I said you don’t have to go through with this. No, no. I said I’m ten toes down, and that’s still the case. After all these years, Dr. Ted Richardson is finally gonna have to face up to what he did. We’re so close. But, baby, you got to play it cool.

Get them to trust me.

Yeah, exactly. Lower their guard, and then I will make sure that their world comes crashing down all around them. And then you will step in, and you will take what is rightfully yours all along. My name and my birthright. That’s right.

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