Tag: CBS

Beyond The Gates Transcript

 

Transcript provided by Suzanne and Thane

THIS STILL NEEDS SOME EDITING!

Come on, Eva, expose yourself. Don’t try to come back ’cause you know it’s overI was the one who put you on my shoulder… Leslie [over phone]: This is Leslie Thomas. I’m screening my calls because not everyone deserves my time. Convince me you do after the beep. [beeps] [sighs] Eva, what are you doing here so late? No one’s going after your daughter. Katherine and I, we’re just having ourselves a friendly little chitchat. You don’t know anything about being friendly.

Everything’s a scheme with you.

Don’t believe me? Oh, I mean, we could always go ask her together.

Dana.

Uh-uh. [clucks tongue] Careful now. It might get a bit awkward when she hears you call me Dana. And she knows me as Anna. But that’s not what’s got you all shook up, is it, Teddy? You’re scared I’m gonna spill the tea about that baby we made.

Smitty: Oh, my God.

Are you all right, son?

What happened to you? Chill. It doesn’t even hurt.

I’m straight.

Smitty: Hey. We’re your parents. You don’t have to do the macho thing with us. And you haven’t told us what happened.

Who did this to you?

Nobody. I just wiped out on my bike near school. That’s all. I’m back. What were you looking at? Oh, nothing serious. Just checking my work schedule.

Another busy week, I assume.

I’m afraid so. You probably won’t be seeing much of me at all. I thought you went out for dinner. Oh, you must have chatted with Ted. Yes, I am supposed to meet up with him and Kat. I just have a last-minute insurance authorization I need to submit for a patient’s treatment tomorrow. Is it something I can help out with? Aw, thanks, dear, but no. This’ll just take a second. Hey, I have a thought. If you don’t have any plans, why don’t you join us? Why are you bringing up all of this old drama? That’s more than a lifetime ago. Thought you could just ship me off like your dirty little secret? Like our history meant nothing. Nothing but trouble. Yes, I got the abortion like I told you, but it was far too painful of a memory for me to let you get away. I don’t have time for the drama, Dana. Oh, why is that? Is it because Nicole could be pulling up soon, hmm? Look, you leave Nicole out of this. She has nothing to do with this. Oh, really? You sure about that? I mean, we could stick around and we could let her decide. Enough! What is it gonna take to get you out of my damn life? Is it more money you want? How much do you have in mind? If it was always about money, then why the song and dance? The fake suicide attempt, the worming through my wife’s events… Aw, Ted, for a smart man, sometimes you can be so damn dense.

[scoffs]

Every time we talked, not once did you ask me what I wanted. Hmm. You always let me know that you just wanted to burn my life to the ground. So, is money all it’s gonna take to get rid of you? Would you like my routing number or should I send you my Cash App? Oh, no. You think you’re slick. I’m not about to leave a paper trail for you to exploit. It’s cash or nothing at all. I’m thinking 50 stacks ought to cover it. $50,000?! [shushes] [whispering]: You must be out of your damn mind. There’s no way I’ll make a withdrawal like that and-and not set off every alarm in the bank. Oh, poor baby. Your mess, your cleanup. All right. You’ll get your money. That’s it. And I still have that same lawyer on speed dial. You know, the one that, uh, made you leave the last time. You didn’t want to hear that, did you? We’re done here. That’s nice of you to invite me, but you know what you’re asking, right? It’s Kat, isn’t it? She’s gonna be so heated, she’ll probably pitch a fit and say I don’t belong there. You’re right. Listen, I don’t want to make you uncomfortable, so we’ll drop it. Maybe next time. Well, I should get out of here. Traffic this time of night is no joke. I assume you’ll be leaving, too. Not yet. Got to log your computer off from the hospital system, then I’ll lock up. Thanks. I appreciate you. Oh, by the way, have you heard anything about that woman who got booted at the banquet? Sherry Carter, was it? Um, no. Ted said to drop it, so I did. Oh. Okay.

And, Eva?

Yes? Do not stress out about Kat. We see your value here. Ted’s on the same page, too. Are you sure you didn’t get swiped by a car or something? Yes, I am. It looks like a lot more damage than falling from your bike. How fast were you going? It was the sidewalks around school. They’re all pushed up from tree roots. It’s a major hazard. It be like that sometimes. Guess it was just my turn to take the L. Why did Tyrell say you had his back? What? Earlier you said Tyrell was upstairs asleep. You didn’t want us to go up, but now it’s clear you didn’t want us to see he was hurt. Um, uh, it wasn’t exactly a lie. I…

Tyrell: Look. It’s not that deep. I was just flexing on my bike. I popped a wheelie and I ate it. It wasn’t the sidewalk.

I was just being stupid.

Are you sure that’s all?

Tyrell: Yes. Now, can we just let this go? This is mad embarrassing. I just want to be left alone.

Please.

Let’s head upstairs. You need to get some antiseptic on that cut. Samantha. Yes, Pop? We need to talk.

Bill: I’m happy you came to see me. Now, listen, no one needs to know that we were together until the time is right. You understand? Lying to my husband is my favorite pastime. Okay. That’s pertinent information. I’ll be sure to keep that in mind. Thank you for handling me with such care and sensitivity. Our time together has truly replenished me. Yeah, well, no problem. I got a lot out of it, too. Good night. Oh, hey, babe. This is a nice surprise. I was expecting for you to be waiting at home for me.

Didn’t Caroline call?

Yes, she did. But you didn’t. And you didn’t text.

Why is that, Bill?

Well, I had an unexpected delay, and now, also unexpectedly, you’re here. I’m happy to see you. Don’t you think the boss kissing an employee days after named in a harassment lawsuit is bad optics? Well, I think the boss wasn’t accused of sexual harassment. A technicality. And I get off on those a lot. Speaking of getting off, let’s get out of here. You know, I was hoping that our dinner at home tonight would be a celebration, and I can convince Naomi to drop the lawsuit.

No luck?

No, not yet. She’s not even returning my calls. Not promptly, anyway.

Posturing.

Yeah. Just like she learned at her daddy’s knee. But you’re not worried? No. No, I’m not stressed at all.

Of course not.

[scoffs] I’m stimulated. By Naomi’s case or…

something else?

[chuckles] Okay, babe, again with the optics? We’re in my private office, there’s no one around. It’s after hours. I remember all those times we stayed after hours. Hmm. Yeah, me too, baby. Mm-hmm. Lots of discovery sessions. More emotions than I can count. You know, reviewing briefs. Your red lacy ones were my favorite. I noticed that woman making a few motions of her own. You’re jealous. So, what do you think about barbecue pizza? Doctors at the hospital, they rave about it. Are you looking for something? Oh, just a text from Eva. I mean, Chels. Now, those are the last two that I think

that you would get confused.

Mm. One is your cousin and your best friend, and the other, I can imagine that you have her face plastered on a dartboard.

It’s not even like that, Dad.

Then what is it like? We’re not friends. Okay? I don’t have to be besties with everyone. I’m not saying that you have to, but I think you need to ease up on Eva. You’ve been coming at her pretty hard, and I still haven’t heard the reason why. Just be patient, Dad. You will. Hmm. Uh, this one might scar. I got some cream that’ll help. Since when did education become a contact sport? You’re making it a bigger deal than what it already is. I told you, I just wiped out. I’m just trying to understand, that’s all. All right, I’ll leave this cream in your bathroom. Use it every day, and the scar should fade. Got it?

[winces]

Oh, come on. It’s not that bad. Not that bad? You should try. Yeah, you did always hate this stuff. Remember your first bike wipeout where you tried to recreate that trick you saw that kid do online? I almost had it. Yeah, until you crashed. You howled back then, too. You said you’d rather have the infection. [chuckles] And you still won’t listen to me. You know I’m always here to listen to you. About anything, anytime. We almost done here, Dad? You, jealous of Lorinda?

Come on, babe.

She was here after hours. In your arms, lying to her husband, and you were all caring and sensitive with her. And she was “replenished.” She ambushed me, baby. All right? It was a platonic hug. She is a liar, though, I’ll give you that one. But I was being disingenuous. And she tosses those woo-woo words around like she’s some kind of New Age guru. Okay, you present a compelling defense narrative. Yeah? Compelling enough to earn that elusive kiss? Uh! The jury requests additional information. Oh, okay. Well, Lorinda is facing a nasty custody battle with her soon-to-be ex-husband. Doesn’t want her children to end up hating her “like yours must hate you, Bill.”

So she–

Hold on! She threw that in your face?

Yeah, verbatim.

Who does she think she is, getting all personal with you like that? Look, life in a fishbowl, baby. People always tapping the glass, trying to get a reaction. Still, Naomi and Chelsea don’t hate you. Okay, well, I’ll concede that they hate me slightly less than they did when everything went down with their mother. Bill, Naomi went from “you’re dead to me” to… Threatening to mop the floor with me in court. Yes, baby, she’s still mad at me. Just give her time, okay? Be the father that she admired and respected and loved before you-know-what occurred. But have faith, okay? It’ll happen. Yeah, well. With Naomi, maybe, but with Chelsea… [chuckles, clucks tongue] I don’t know. All right, let’s hear it. Hear what? Tree roots, pushing up sidewalks, popping wheelies? Which story am I supposed to believe? Whatever Tyrell told you. Why would he lie? Don’t play me, Samantha. We both know there’s more to this. If you’ve got it all figured out, why come at me? Look, I’m just looking for a little help. I’m worried about your brother. If it was something serious, you’ll tell me, right? Pop, I always tell you what you need to know. Sounds like something I would say in my press conference. You sure you don’t want to run for office? As riveting as this interrogation is, I’ve got a hot date with my trig homework. Well, don’t let me keep you. Got to maintain that 4.0. 4.25, Pop. You need to give people a chance. Don’t be so quick to rush to judgment. You may discover that you made a mistake. I’ll keep that in mind. We can’t all be as flawless as you, Dad. Trust me, I’m far from flawless. Nope. You’re the GOAT. As perfect as they come. Well, if it isn’t my favorite power couple. A rare night out together? A blue moon event indeed. You know how it is, girl. Ah, the price of success. I at least get to see Vanessa from time to time at the country club. Where have you been hiding, stranger? Oh, I’ve been around. He’s at the hospital morning, noon and night. I can’t believe we don’t see each other then, if you’re there that much. Well, psychiatrists and surgeons don’t exactly run in the same circles. Besides, most of my surgeries are scheduled later in the day, and I’m usually there burning the midnight oil. By the time I get home, this one over here is chin-checking the pillow. Well, then, let’s do lunch. The four of us, at the country club. Don’t threaten me with a good time. Girl, you know I’m all in. You guys enjoy your night.

You really never see her?

I really never see her. Well, look who I found. Dr. McBride. Hello again. Joey, right? [chuckles] And Mrs. McBride. It’s a good thing I ran into you. I got those listings you sent about my mother’s new home. And what’d you think? Some seem to be on point. There’s more out there than I thought. Always is if you know where to look. Oh, I knew I was right to look you up. When can we check them out? Hit up my office. My assistant will set it all up. But in the meantime, are you in a rush? I’m sure Joey has plans for this evening. He’s a…

he’s a businessman.

Well, in the off chance you don’t, you should pull up a seat. Sure we can find something else to talk about than just real estate. How’d it go up there? If I had to guess, probably as well as it went down here. That bad, huh? Tyrell didn’t say a word. It’s like trying to get Wi-Fi in a dead zone. Samantha was the same way. Eh, when we were that age, I remember all the things I hid from my parents. Yeah, but this feels different. There was something in Tyrell’s eyes. Fear, maybe?

You think he’s in trouble?

I don’t know. But whatever it is, it’s eating him up inside. Yeah, and Samantha’s caught in the middle. What do you think we should do, Martin? We’ll figure it out. Together. Like we always do. So, what is the reason for this impromptu dinner with your parents? That purse line you’re starting with Chelsea? Aunt Dani beat me to it. Actually, it was Chelsea.

Congratulations, sweetheart.

Thanks.

Show us the pictures.

Yeah, we love to see. I’ll show you later on my tablet. My phone doesn’t do it justice. I’m guessing Chelsea has to fire Dani as her manager. How’s she taking that?

Nicole: Ugh, it’s a process. Day by day. Why are you glued so much to your phone? Is it some important business? No, but if it’s something major, you’ll be the first to know. Maybe Chelsea will reach out. Mm-hmm. See? Yeah, I recognize that calculating look. You’re wondering how you can make that happen. Which is sweet and considerate and not at all likely.

You never know.

Yeah, well. You know, I can’t exactly blame her. You know, she doesn’t trust me not to hurt her the way I hurt Dani.

Understandable.

Yeah. But she didn’t close the door on having a relationship with you, though, right?

Not yet.

Okay, so there’s hope. And hope and faith are practically soulmates. [chuckling] You sound like Lorinda. [scoffs] Thanks for reminding me. You know what? Let’s go ahead and circle back to Mrs. Woo-Woo. No, there’s nothing to circle back to. I’ve never seen you hug a client the way you were hugging her, Bill. Okay, if that’s what’s bothering you, then good news. She’s not my client. That makes it even worse. So, why were you “replenishing” some random woman? Not replenishing, baby.

I was playing her.

To what end? To make her open up to me and give me the ammunition I need to crush her in court. Wait, so you’re representing her husband, Bill? That type of stunt can get you disbarred. He’s not my client either. Okay, explain. All right. After Lorinda took aim and popped off about my personal life, I said, okay, you know what? I’m gonna give her a safe and caring and sensitive– if you will– space to tell me everything I need to know. And then I call Mr. Woo-Woo and offer my services. Huh. So you’re protecting her kids from her. She won’t even know what hit her. And you know what? That will teach her to speak out of turn and put her hands on my man. This time with you is important, so you have my full attention. And just so we’re clear, I’m not bailing on the clinic anytime soon. I mean, if we blow up like I expect us to, when we make our big move into activewear… Dad will need a backup plan. Oh, uh, give me a second. I need to check this. It is so kind of you to invite me, but aren’t the two of you having a rare night out? It’s a special night for us. But there’s always room for more. I’ll have to pass. But I do think tonight’s going to be lucky for someone. I look forward to touring those homes. Aw, bummer. Next time, then. It’s a date. In the meantime, Dr. McBride, be sure to cherish this queen. She’s a whole gem. Don’t I know it. I can’t believe you. It’s Joey, right? Really?

What do you want me to say?

How about nothing?

You didn’t have to play dumb.

Well, excuse me for not wanting to cozy up with a guy and his rep. Do you know what he does? Who he is? I don’t officially know anything. And are you telling me, if he came to you with a heart problem, you wouldn’t treat him? Of course not. Doctors have oaths. See? So he could be in your world just as easily as he stepped into mine. Don’t say I didn’t warn you. Have to get to the hospital. Already? What about our special evening? I got a text. Don’t wait up. Dad’s always been good with this first aid stuff. He did all right, but that’s not what he was up here for.

He was fishing for info.

So was Pop. You didn’t narc on me, did you? Are you really asking me that? When have I ever not been your ride-or-die? Don’t need to get all sus about it. Just double-checking. Yeah, I played dumb, but he wasn’t buying it. Dad knew I was capping, too. You can’t keep this up forever. They’re gonna crack the code eventually. You really think so? You remember Pop’s story about his glow-up year in politics? What does that got to do with anything? Pop was catching a lot of heat over his education reform proposals. He tried to keep it on the low. Just like you. Dad clocked Pop acting weird, always coming home late, always stressed. He connected the dots, called him out, and they tackled it as a team. First time hearing that. That’s ’cause you don’t stay woke like I do. Our dads are like true crime podcast sleuths. They don’t give up on each other, so… they def won’t when it comes to us. So you’re saying trying to keep us under wraps is basically Mission: Impossible? Yes. It’s only a matter of time before they find out that some twice-your-size jock walked up and sucker-punched you. I should have been the one to go upstairs with Tyrell.

Maybe I…

No. I love you, but you know how he gets. He was already holding so much inside and… And he would have just been clamming up more than usual.

Yeah.

Yeah. You’re probably right. And you obviously didn’t get further with Samantha than I did with Tyrell, but you were definitely the right one to talk to her. She’s always had trouble keeping things from you. That changed tonight. When did our baby girl get so clever? Uh, since day one. She kind of takes after her Pops. Busted sidewalks. If that’s the case, we need to put more pressure on City Hall. Big emphasis on the if. Popping a wheelie? Since when did our shy son become Matt Hoffman? It’s hard having your kids lie to your face, isn’t it? Uh, we both know it’s not the lie that’s the problem. It is what the lie is covering up. Don’t mind us. We can entertain ourselves just fine. “The suicidal patient was spotted “on the rooftop ledge and approached. “She identified herself as Sherry Carter “and claimed she lost her husband six months ago, “implying death. However, it turns out, he left her.” Damn it! Damn it! Kat, what’s wrong? Did either of you bring a phone charger?

I can check the car.

Never mind. We need to go home, like, now.

Nicole: Home? Yes, right now. I haven’t had the pizza yet. We can make one at the house, Dad. Let’s go.

Look…

Kat, this doesn’t make sense. We’ve had drinks. We can’t leave now.

I have to pay the bill.

Fine. Meet me there, then. ASAP.

Is the house on fire or something?

No. Then what is it? [both sigh] What’s this supposed to be? Think of it as insurance. I’m not following. These cards… they’re magic. They turn winners into losers like that. Your boy Doug’s gonna be here any minute. You tracking him or something? I don’t have to. He’s an addict. Just show ’em a little bait, and they come running every time. Now, when he shows, you make sure the dealer uses these. Got it? Yeah, I got it. [sighs] Doc! A long time no see.

Now go get that money.

I appreciate it. Oh, and thanks for the discretion earlier. It’s best if we keep this under wraps, obviously. Say less. We’re on the same page. Ah. I’m ready to run these tables like it is track practice. Maybe you should slow your roll, man. What do you mean? I just got here. Vanessa was looking for you earlier. She, uh, texted me and everything. When? About an hour ago. Nice try, Randy. I was with Vanessa an hour ago. And since when does Vanessa hit you up about me? Whoa. Hey, look, I’m just trying to look out for you. No need. Lady Luck is on my side. I’m not leaving here until I have a fat wad of cash with me. Any guesses to what that was about? I’m not sure, but I’m pretty sure that we’re gonna find out when we get home. Maybe she had a surprise for our anniversary, but we’ll see. No, that doesn’t feel quite right.

That’s not for a while.

Hmm. But can you believe that we are about to celebrate another one? When we got married, I said till death do us part, and I meant it. You are the only woman for me. You are laying it on thick. [laughs] Not that I mind. I have to say, there was a time I wouldn’t have been surprised if you had second thoughts. I was so wrapped up in wanting another child. You had every right to be. That’s how we got our baby Kat. I love Martin something fierce, but Kat, she’s allowing me and touching my heart in ways that I’m still discovering. Kat is my heart, you are my soul. How did I get the perfect family? Oh, Ted. Nicole, don’t ever leave me. You have never given me a reason to even consider it. If I could add more hours to the day, I would. You know why?

More billable hours?

No. [both chuckle] ‘Cause you’re sexy 24-7. And even more so when you’re jealous. Which means I need more time to appreciate all that sexiness. Well, I was just as jealous as you were stressed about that lawsuit. Oh… [chuckles] Well played.

Learned from the best.

Me?

You asking or telling?

I’m stating a fact. Hey. What is it now? I don’t know, I guess… I’m just embarrassed. I can’t believe that I thought… Okay, wait. No, wait. Hold on a second. Insecurity is not in your vocabulary. What’s going on? Seeing you with that woman… it just set me off. Okay, all right. Come here. Look. Look at me. I am in love with you. I fell in love with your heart, your soul, your strength, your laugh. And that fine body of yours is a bonus. Will you still think it’s fine when we’re old and gray and kids are making “yo mama” jokes about my backside? [both laugh]

You damn right I will.

Mm. And you never have to worry about another woman coming between us, Hayley. Okay? Hey. I am yours. And I’m yours. Kiss me now. Asking or telling? Look, whatever gets those lips on mine. Come here.

I love you.

Love you. Let’s get out of here. Okay. Uptown? Country club? Home. So we can de-brief and I can put you through the motions. [chuckles] [door opens and closes] Eva, you basic bitch. Where are you? [scoffs] I did what you asked. Oh, you did more than that. What’s with you trying to get him to hit the road? Yes. I have eyes and ears everywhere. The tables, the walls, even the damn ashtrays report to me. Look, Joey, I was just trying to help a friend, that’s all. By warning him? Look, man, I’ve known Doug since way back, all right? He’s good people. He’s got a wife, kids… And an addiction, which is going to pay me off. You think I care about his sob story? Couldn’t we just ease up on him a bit? Last warning, Randy. I know he’s your boy… …but he is my ticket to my next big come-up. And it better stay that way. Let’s run it back. Ty’s being bullied. That has to be it, right? It looks that way. Two gay dads… And one is a high-profile congressman. I mean, I know that we wanted him to have normal experiences, which is why we chose public school, but maybe we were being naive. And tell me how the kids are fine without one of us home full-time? Come on, we’ve been over that. Yeah, you’re right. My bad. I’m just… I’m scared for him. Yeah, me, too. And you do have a point. Right now one parent won’t cut it. They’re gonna need both of us. Right when everything is about to get crazy busy. If you actually run for president… And if you commit full-time to work at the paper… [sighs] We need to make a pact right now. Both of us will make time to be there during study hours and dinner hours. I know that’s sometimes tough for you. Yeah, but I got to make the effort. They won’t open up if we’re not here. I’m glad you agree. Poor Tyrell. He has such a beautiful soul. Kids can be so damn mean. We have to tell our dads. Guys punching you out of nowhere is not cool. No, Samantha, you have to swear. Not a word. Why not? Because there’s something you don’t know. Then you better tell me. I was changing in the locker room into my nerdy, embarrassing briefs. Not the chessboard. When I wasn’t paying attention, someone took a picture of me from my phone, sent it to Jessica, one of the prettiest girls in the school. Probably doesn’t even know I exist. Anyways, her boyfriend saw it, thought I sent it, and that’s why I got punched. Oh, Tyrell. That’s why we can’t tell our dads. It’ll become a whole big thing. Pops will throw his weight around at the principal. Or even worse, pull up on the parents. That would be bad. Can I just crawl under a rock? You know that’s not the solution. Then I have to find one, since I’m dealing with this all on my own. No, you’re not. There you are. You missed quite a show. What happened? Well, your daddy thinks that 50 stacks is enough to make us fall back on our plans. He agreed to give you money? Just like that? Honey, he practically begged me to take it. He thinks it makes up for all those years of child support he never paid. That fool. But what about our plan? Oh, well, it’s still on. This is just a bonus. And he’ll find out the hard way on his precious anniversary. Kat, are you home? Oh, I thought you two would never get home. Could you finally tell us what this is about? It’s about that walking red flag Eva.

Kat.

You don’t get it.

She was here tonight.

We know that. I just spoke to her before I went uptown.

Same.

You didn’t let me finish. You might have seen her, but after you both left, she was creeping around.

Here we go.

It’s true. She was digging in Mom’s patient files when she knew nobody else was here. And how exactly would you know that? You want the receipts? Take a look. What are we supposed to be looking at? [sighs happily] Hairdresser, one. Bougie bitch from behind the gates, zero. [chuckles] Kat really thought she had my number. But she’s not ready for the smoke.

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Beyond The Gates Transcript

 

Transcript provided by Suzanne and Thane

THIS STILL NEEDS SOME EDITING!

Chelsea just told me the news. You came over to watch me fall apart? [clears throat] Of course not. She told me you were totally supportive of her. Yay, me. I can’t believe she’s quitting modeling. Me, either. I’m nothing if not a good faker. You’re a good mom. It must be hard letting her go. Yeah. Very. I remember this magazine cover. How’d the frame get cracked? I didn’t smash it in a rage, if that’s what you’re worried about. Someone else broke it and I haven’t had a chance to fix it yet. There must be a reason you’re holding it, crying. Reminds me of my life. Broken and jagged. Well, maybe I can help you put it back together. What the hell do you think you’re doing? Paying my tab, then going home to soak in a tub. Not until you hear me out. My father told you about the lawsuit?

Of course he did. I’m his wife.

Ugh. Aren’t you tired of bragging about that? The suit impacts the both of us. After all, I am an employee at the firm, too. You know, you got a promotion that was promised to one of my clients. And given that you were sleeping with the head of the firm at the time, it’s more evidence that it’s an inappropriate, harassment-filled work environment. I earned my promotion. On your back, between the sheets with my dad? Okay, look, I’m going to ignore that. Okay. Lots of people work at the firm. You thought about how picking a fight with Bill affects them? Or is hurting your father your only goal, and anyone else is just collateral damage? My husband is always watching out for me, but sometimes we get our wires crossed. A reporting job at The Washington Record. My schedule has suddenly opened up.

That’s terrific news.

Yeah. Of course, I’m going to have to discuss it with Martin first because we always make family decisions together.

Evan: Oh, absolutely. I totally understand. All I ask is that you get back with me ASAP. I want you, but this is a choice gig, so there are a lot of candidates, and I really need to get an offer out there quickly. Absolutely. Thank you, Evan. Ah, no, thank you. All right. See ya. I can explain. I hope so, because I can’t think of one reason why you would turn down an incredible job offer on my behalf and not even bother to tell me. TED: Hey, sweetheart. Hey, Dad. Are you and Mom free for dinner tonight? I am, and I’m pretty sure Nicole is, too. Great. Meet me at Uptown. My treat. It’s been forever since I’ve had one-on-one time with you, and I want to catch up. What did I do to deserve you? What do you mean? I don’t know very many hip young women who still want to dine with their hopelessly unhip parents. Stop that, Daddy. You and Mom are the coolest. Normcore cool. Whatever that means, I’ll take it. Great. See you there around 8:00. This reminds me of when you were a little itty-bitty and we would split a pint. Yup, eat right out of the container. Mmm. The whole pint in one sitting. To me, that was the most extravagant thing in the world. I felt like a little princess in some royal court. Mm. Well, you’ve seen King Ted and Queen Nicole’s way of life. And you’ve also been cheated out of what the other kids have. And that’s the life that you deserved this whole time. I never should have let him talk me into leaving town. [scoffs] And keeping his dirty little secret. Oh, sweetie, I’m so sorry. I’m sorry. That sounded terrible. It’s-it’s okay. I know what you meant. He made me feel so low, so cheap. And I’m finally gonna crawl out of my sunken place and expose Mr. “Family Man” Ted for the lying hypocrite he is. [scoffs] Boy, I’m gonna get a lot of bang for my buck, baby. [laughs] And everybody will know. ‘Cause I’m gonna tell them at Ted and Nicole’s anniversary party. Eat up. Mmm. Two creams, one sugar. How’d you know? I’m a big shot detective, remember? I pay attention, I get the intel. Thanks. You’re very welcome. Why are you being like this, man? Like what? Nice. I mean, you’re my partner. I was in the break room having some coffee, and I figured you might want some, too. Why else? Because you want something, and it’s gonna be something I won’t like. Suspicious much? I didn’t tell you about the job because I didn’t think it was the right opportunity for you. Why not? Because journalism jobs pay little and I’d be insulted? Any money I make would be more than I make right now as a stay-at-home dad. I handled it the wrong way, I admit. I was afraid of losing you to the work, the same way you hate losing me to politics. That is a crock. You… you don’t think what I do is as important as being a congressman. That’s not true. I do. I know how important the press is. It’s one of the reasons that the First Amendment exists. Thank you for your stump speech, but I’m not your constituent. I’m your husband. Be real with me. This isn’t the first secret you’ve kept. What are you talking about? Earlier tonight, I find out that you want to run for president? I feel like me being the last to know is becoming a pattern. I’m sorry. A “sorry” is not what I’m looking for. I want to understand why you did it. I was selfish. Both times. I was afraid you and I wouldn’t want the same thing, so I didn’t tell you. But I promise, I won’t keep anything from you again. That covers the future, but what about right now? Are there any other secrets you’re keeping from me?

Suspicious much?

You keep giving me reasons to be. Okay, we had a bit of a rough start. I was hazing you. I’m not pledging a frat. I know, but you’re new to Robbery/Homicide. Had to put you through the paces, see what you’re made of. Did I pass your test? Yeah, you, uh, managed to put up with me and still do your job. You proved you were cool. Now you get to see a kinder, more gentler Marcel. Really? You gonna be shocked at what a sweetheart I actually am. You know what, Marcel? Everything I’m hearing sounds like bull, so how about you keep it real and let me know what’s really going on? Well, I didn’t want to get into it this early in our partnership. Well, we into it now. Okay, okay. If you really want to know, once upon a time, I used to be just like you. [scoffs] Thank you. You’ve been the most devoted mom anyone could ever ask for. It’s you and me against the world, baby. Always has been and always will be. Well, I guess there was Alan. Oh, what a poor excuse for a stepfather he was. He tried. My patience. [chuckles] But I guess I shouldn’t speak ill of the dead. The point is, even when Alan was alive, you were my top priority. Thanks. You’re my top priority, too.

Mmm.

And that’s why I’ve been rethinking our plan. Oh? Hmm. Something that might make this really pop. In the long run, I wonder if it isn’t better that we tell Ted I’m his daughter in private. And why would I do that? Because embarrassing him in public might make you feel good short-term, but does that really serve our long-term goals? Of course it does. He stomped on my heart. I got pregnant with Ted’s baby, you, out of love. And he abandoned us. Left to go be with his high-society wife and her over-privileged family. Yeah, but if we expose him publicly, don’t you think that would make him less inclined to make things right? Financially speaking? Shaming him in public will force him to give you your birthright. He won’t be able to wiggle his way out of his obligations this time. Not again. Especially with his judgmental wife and family, her family, watching. No. He would do what it takes to pay just to make this embarrassment go away. I’m not sure about that. [computer chimes] [phone chimes] Who’s that?

Nicole.

[scoffs] She wants me to go by her house and make sure the computer is logged out of the hospital account. This is what I’m talking about. Over-privileged. There’s no way in the world that woman should have you working after hours. I’m her assistant. That’s the kind of job it is. Why can’t she do it herself? She’s going to be at a family dinner with Kat. Oh, at their little precious country club? No, actually. Tonight, they’re slumming, going to that place Uptown. And in order for your plan to work, I need to seem like the perfect assistant, so I’m gonna go and do what Nicole asks. You’re right. You need to go. But you need to accept that I’m right about blowing Ted and Nicole out of the water at their anniversary party. We were best friends, Naomi. I thought I knew you. That’s rich. I thought I knew you. Are you so bitter that you can’t see that these women…

My clients.

…are disgruntled former employees looking for a payout? You know, I really don’t like women who don’t support other women. Don’t you care

that they were harassed?

By Mike? I never had a problem with him. Maybe because you were busy sleeping with the boss. This isn’t about your experience at work, anyway. It’s about theirs. Your anger at Bill is clouding your judgment. Oh, it’s like that? You’re gonna psychoanalyze me now? I don’t have to. I know you… better than you want to admit. Look, Bill and I have a great life. But if I’m honest, my only regret is that you’re not in it. You’re the sister I never had. We weren’t sisters. I have a sister, Chelsea. And that sister is now suffering because you broke her parents’ marriage up. But you can’t say our friendship wasn’t real. Oh, our friendship was an illusion that you created to get next to my dad. It wasn’t premeditated. I fell in love. “Oh, I fell in love. It’s not my fault.” Are you really going with that? You know what? In some ways, I’m more angry with you than my dad. He betrayed my mom, but you? You betrayed me. I always wonder what my life would be like if I hadn’t met Bill. We need to move beyond Bill, Dani. If you ask me, he is the root of all of this. No kidding. If only he hadn’t been so charming. And handsome. And charismatic. One kiss, I was addicted. That’s exactly it, Dani. You’re an addict. What? It’s a figure of speech. There is tons of scholarship out there about love addiction. It’s called codependence. It has all the same hallmarks as any other addiction. Such as? Intense cravings like withdrawal. Check. As horrible as he’s been, I can’t stop thinking about him.

Tolerance for abuse.

Check again. Loss of control. Like shooting up a wedding? Yes. And neglecting every other part of your life that’s important. When was the last time you had a dream that made you happy? And please, do not say with Bill. But it was with Bill. He laid out this big plan for our lives. He was going to leave the D.A.’s office and found his law firm. I’d stop modeling and help him. I promised to leverage all of my contacts so that he could get his firm up and running. I also promised to be the perfect wife and perfect mother. It didn’t occur to you to say no? Of course not. I was all in on the whole picture until he left. I hope you hear yourself. Bill dragged you down. He used you until you weren’t the person he fell in love with anymore, and then he dumped you for a newer model. That is low. You know, I was sitting here, remembering what it was like when I used to be able to stop a man in his tracks. I know that’s shallow, but– But it’s real, Dani. You are still stunning. Your beauty, your aesthetics, it’s a big part of who you are. So why don’t you get props from where it feels good? How? Meet some decent men. Try dating, and you might see how many other men are out there who would love to be with you. Come on, Eva. I know you took the bait. Kat Richardson. I’m sorry, have we met? My name is Anna. I see. And you’re over here because? We have a mutual acquaintance. Who? Your mother’s assistant.

You know Laura Peterson?

No, dear. I’m talking about Eva Thomas. LESLIE: Now that you’ve seen King Ted and Queen Nicole’s way of life, you know you’ve been cheated out of what his other kids have. It’s what you’ve deserved this whole time. What are you doing? Anna, I’m not sure why you want to talk to me about my mom’s personal assistant. That’s too many degrees of separation. But is it? I was a good friend of Eva’s mom. She passed away. I’ve known Eva since she was a little bitty thing. Still, I think it’s inappropriate for me to discuss my mother’s employee with a stranger. I wouldn’t normally be so forward, but I feel like it’s destiny that you and I crossed paths. Destiny? Yes. Your mother is her boss, and I’m like a mother to her, and here we are. Destiny, see? Uh, not really. I’m a businesswoman, no nonsense, two feet on the ground. Nothing is preordained. It’s all hard work.

Hard work?

Mm-hmm. This is what I mean. Eva confided in me that she’s unhappy at her job. Well, if that’s true, nothing is stopping her from quitting. Technically, she’s a temp. She doesn’t even need to put in two weeks’ notice. [Leslie laughs] What I mean is, Eva enjoys the job itself. She even told me that she thinks it’s interesting and fulfilling. Then what’s her problem? She thinks you hate her. I can’t imagine why. [chuckles] So I thought I would be a peacemaker between the two of you. Is there anything, in your opinion, that I can do to smooth things over? Oh, hey, Ted. Sorry. Um, Nicole asked me to sign her out of her hospital email, and I just stopped because this candlestick was at the end of the mantle, and Nicole usually keeps it with the other one. Oh. The housekeeper probably moved it when she was cleaning. No worries. Always happens. But that’s not your job. I don’t need you around here, tidying things up. Well, you and Nicole have been so kind to me. It makes me want to go above and beyond. Everyone in the family loves the amazing job that you’re doing around here. Everybody but Kat, maybe. Look, I’ve tried to be friendly, but it’s like she despises me. She’s still upset about that dress, and that was Nicole’s idea. [sighs] And I tried to explain that, but it’s like she wasn’t buying it at all. So, things have gotten worse, not better. Yeah, and I’ve tried to bend over backwards to be friends with her. I do not know what else to do. Kat’s an amazing woman, but it takes her a while to open up to outsiders. Is that what I am? An outsider? Not to Nicole, not to me. But you have to understand that she wasn’t here to witness the amazing job that you did on her mom’s event. Right. She’s an entrepreneur, had a business meeting. Yeah, Kat’s very busy. She has a side gig that she’s doing with Chelsea and helping me to manage my practice. Let’s just say that she’s overworked and overprotective of our family. Must be nice to have a family to feel that way about. [chuckles] We’ve spoiled her. We’ve always given her everything that she wants. Kat is definitely a daddy’s girl. [scoffs] Just like me. Right. You wound me. I’m protecting you. I was a wide-eyed rookie once, aching to be top cop. I’m new to this department, not the force. I’m not a rookie, I’m just not you. I’m giving you some advice here. Ah, there he is. I’m sorry. My bad. Jekyll and Hyde much? I’m saying, you be you. You want to protect the public, get the bad guys? Don’t ever settle or look the other way. Like you did when Joey Armstrong took that payoff? Don’t be me. Be better.

Thank you.

Mm-hmm. Smitty, I am not keeping anything else from you, I swear. Okay. But I need you to get that it is not cool for you to unilaterally decide that I shouldn’t take that job. I get it. I do. And while I think that you understand the importance of media in general, I don’t think you understand the importance of journalism to me personally.

I know.

I don’t think you do. Otherwise, you would have never taken for granted that I would just give up my career when we become parents. You did that voluntarily. I thought it was just temporary. I always thought that when our kids went back to high school, I would jump back in the saddle, but for some reason, that never happened. You were the primary caregiver. Not by choice. By default. But you’re better at it than me. Because I put in the time. Okay. Yeah, you do. But I am every bit as concerned about them as you are. It’s hard enough being a teenager, but I’m afraid of any change to the stability of their lives. And yes, you provide the stability. It’s gonna mess things up. Isn’t you running for president gonna be a harder adjustment than me going back to work at a job that I can basically do from home? I guess, if it actually happens. If you want something to happen, Martin, it happens. Then we have to make sure to keep Samantha and Tyrell from the fray. Protect them at all costs. Family first. Eva’s job, Anna, is to assist my mother, not be my bestie. [scoffs] Sounds to me like she has her priorities messed up. You’re taking this the wrong way. I’m trying to figure out what’s going on. And… if Eva is being oversensitive or paranoid. Because of her sad childhood. But then I thought, everyone likes Eva. That may be true in her personal life, but she’s out of her element working as an assistant to someone as high-profile as my mother. She doesn’t have any prior experience, so, yeah, it has been a bit awkward. All I’m saying is that if you feel Eva isn’t up to speed, with you knowing what it’s like to have a new job, why not help her? You’d be helping your mother out, too. But you’re choosing not to. Why is that? You’ve got this all wrong. Eva is the problem, not me. EVA: I see why Kat has a hard time getting me. You do? Sure. I didn’t grow up in a house like this, for one thing. We’re really different. It doesn’t mean that you’re less than. Only to you, maybe. It means that you’re self-made. It means you’re resourceful and driven. That’s how you see me? Absolutely. I wish Kat saw me that way. [sighs] We haven’t exposed Kat to much of the world outside of Fairmont Crest. I can’t believe you’re sort of taking my side. No, I’m not taking sides. I just want everybody to chill. I want my home to be a sanctuary. You know what? I’m gonna meet Kat and Nicole for dinner. Maybe I’ll talk to her about it then. No, no, no, no. Please don’t. Look, she’ll know we’ve been talking and she’ll accuse me of turning her father against her. That is the last thing I want. Okay. I’ll keep this between us. Thank you. Friends? Yeah. [both chuckling] [sighs] Date? What, like find myself a vacay bae? I get my needs met. I was thinking of something a little more respectful. I am so not ready for that. Then maybe you should date yourself. Date myself? What does that even mean? It means figure out what makes you happy. Rather than being in the pits, this time of your life could be really fulfilling. Aren’t you little Miss Glass Half Full? I mean it, Dani. Your kids are grown. You don’t owe anything to anyone. You can draw your own map. Do Dani. And who is this Dani you see in your magic Nicole ball? An ex-model crying over a broken photo? Or-or a crazy woman who shot up the flowers and vases at her ex-husband’s wedding? Maybe it’s the Dani that did a spectacular job hosting my tribute event. All of those Danis are you. I’m gonna keep it real. Every single one of those Danis wants her husband back.

Oh, Sissy…

I know. I know, Bill is the scum of the earth, but the hold he has on me is like…

A black hole.

Maybe, but he’s my black hole. I have loved him for so long, I don’t know anything else. He is my first, my last, and my only love. I didn’t betray you, Naomi. Our friendship was the real deal. I couldn’t help falling in love with Bill. Like you had no choice? I’ve known you a long time. Besides, what did it matter if you fell in love? What about doing the right thing, huh? My dad was married. You could have kept your drawers on. Oh, you sure love passing judgment. I’m a home-wrecker. Bill subverts the law to get his clients off the hook, but you’re the one playing fast and loose with the law, bringing this frivolous suit so you can pursue your vendetta against your dad for the crime of falling in love with me. I didn’t think you were this petty. [scoffs] I’m just meeting my dad where he is. In the sewer with you. But make no mistake, our suit is not frivolous. You want to play it this way? Fine, but you won’t win this. Don’t start nothing won’t be nothing. But there is something, Hayley. Sexual harassment and discrimination. The law offices of Bill Hamilton, Esquire, will crush you in court. And when we win, we will sue you for attorney fees. We’ll bankrupt that tiny little firm and put you dead out of business. What problems could a sweet girl like Eva possibly cause? Well, she always has an excuse for being overly involved in my parents’ lives, for one thing. What’s going on between Eva and your parents? What kind of question is that? A logical one. Since you’re saying she’s over-involved, I’m asking for an example. Okay. One day, she popped up in my mother’s office at the hospital when she was supposed to be working at my mom’s house. She’s always got her hands in things that are outside of her duties. Not that it’s any of your business. She’s probably being diligent. Aren’t you, when you’re managing your father’s office? Sure, but… this is different. Anyway, time will tell if I’m right about this. Meanwhile, can you get a message to Eva for me? Sure. If Eva really wants to get along better with me, she’ll respect the boundaries of her job and stop crossing so many lines. LESLIE: Mm. You talked to him, didn’t you?

Who about what?

Marcel. You told him to take it easy on me, ’cause he went from being a jerk to bringing me coffee and telling me to be true to my ideals. He doesn’t even talk like that. Hmm. Wasn’t me. Pops, out of respect, tell me the truth.

Why would I lie?

To protect me. But I could fight my own battles. Maybe, but don’t fight this one. I don’t understand. There’s nothing to understand. Leave it alone or I’ll assign you a new partner. Do you know why I like journalism? It is one of the only ways to really speak truth to power, and I can’t wait to just roll up my sleeves and start digging in on a good story. Here’s a little thought experiment. What if you announce that you’re gonna run for president and my editor assigns me to investigate you? [chuckles] It wouldn’t happen. It’s a conflict of interest. And if my campaign takes off, you might be reassigned to restaurant reviews. Yeah, heaven help me. Unless it’s Orphey Gene’s, of course. Besides, you already know everything there is to know about my past. Yeah, probably. But do not give me or anyone else a reason to start digging. [chuckles]

Nicole: It’s possible to get back out there again, Dani. What’s the point? I feel what I feel.

And until that changes–

It’s valid to feel what you feel. Emotions just don’t go away overnight, and that’s okay. But sometimes, exploring those feelings and understanding them better, it can open the door to change. You sound like such a psychiatrist right now. Okay, let’s roll with that. Indulge me. For a moment, let me be your therapist. Oh, Nicole. For a role-play. It’ll be fun. You be you, and I’ll be a date. This is dumb. How many dumb things have I done to make you happy? And do you honestly think that Bill, of all people, is worth holding on to all this pain for? No, but– Then let’s pretend we’re on a date. This is why I always wanted a brother. A brother would pop a brew and tell you that you’re on your own. Exactly. He would let me wallow in peace. Dani… Fine, but I’m drinking a martini. [clears throat] Hi. Dani Dupree, right? You’re my online date. What are you drinking? Vodka and sadness. Okay, I see we have our work cut out for us. Let me ask you an honest question. Do you really love Bill, or do you just want him back because you can’t have him? Why would you ask me that? Because I’ve seen you do it time and time again. You go after something to show yourself, and the world, that you can get it. And then you decide you don’t want it anymore. It’s a sport for you. You’re saying I’m a tease? I’m saying you need to dig deep inside and ask yourself, could you really be with Bill again after the horrible way he treated you? When I think about Bill, I don’t remember the bad times. Selective amnesia. Let me remind you. He screwed Hayley, threw her in your face, and rejected you. Could you really let Bill back into your life, much less your bed? In a heartbeat. Like you said, I’m an addict. I tried to go cold turkey, but I still have cravings. I don’t think I’ll ever get over him. That makes me really sad. It makes me even sadder. You think your empty threats got me quaking in my boots? HAYLEY: If you were smart, you would be. Oh, you don’t want to compare your IQ to mine, Hayley. Mm-mm. The facts are on my side. Sexual harassment in the workplace is illegal. The appropriate remedy to a civil offense is a lawsuit. My clients have every right to take Mike Davis, their harasser, to court, along with the firm that employs him. We will prevail. You know, I came to talk to you out of respect for the friendship we had. But if you are determined to go after the law firm… the gloves are coming off. I will stand beside Bill, and we will take you down. Bring it on. Hey, Samantha. How was school? Fine. That’s it? Yeah, it was school. Where’s Tyrell? Uh, he just went to bed a few minutes ago. I’ll go up and say good night to him. No, no. No, you can’t. You can’t do that. Yeah, I think we can. What’s going on with you? Don’t be mad at her. She’s got my back. [sniffles] I thought I’d be able to help a friend’s daughter out, but clearly, you’re too close-minded to give Eva a chance. Your loss. Anna, you seem genuinely caring and well meaning. Well, thank you. I hoped you’d see me that way. But I think Eva got over on you. You should be careful around her. There’s no point in continuing this conversation. I couldn’t agree more. So now you’re going after my daughter?

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Beyond The Gates Transcript

 

Transcript provided by Suzanne and Thane

THIS STILL NEEDS SOME EDITING!

[birds chirping] You’re done with modeling. Funny. Cute. But we have no time for comedy. As soon as you sign this, I can, uh, get all those balls in the air and start juggling. This fashion show is not going to organize itself. I’m not kidding, Mom. I’m done with modeling. Are you livestreaming this somehow? Are all your little followers watching your mother freak out? I swear I’m not punking you. Then what is this about, Chelsea? Because you’re not making any sense. Well, I’ll tell you if you just listen. I’m not like you, Mom. Modeling isn’t my end-all, be-all. What I want to do is be a designer. And I have my own company. Well, it’s not just me. I’m partnering with Kat. We just started, but it won’t take long for us to be able to launch our own line. Okay. Sweetheart, let’s be serious. Maybe someday soon, we can discuss starting our own fashion line. But a project like that takes planning and preparation. You have no idea how– I already know everything about my company. From the market research, the business plan, the concept design. I am not going to let you give away your wildly successful career on a whim. Don’t call it that. And it’s not up to you. Kat and I have put a lot of work into our business. And it’s just starting to take off. She already negotiated a partnership deal with a luxury brand. But I told her I didn’t want to partner with somebody right now. I want our company to be all ours. I know this is wild. And I didn’t even expect this to happen so soon. Why is this the first I’m hearing about this? I was scared to tell you. [Motown music playing] You are no good for meAnd now I seeYou don’t love meLike I love you…Hi, Jacob. Hayley. It’s been a while since we had a chance to catch up. Congratulations on your promotion. Thank you. You’re working in Robbery and Homicide now, right? Must be intense. It is what it is, you know. Well, it’s nothing you can’t handle, I’m sure. You excel at everything you do. [chuckles] It’s nice of you to say. I’ll see you around. Jacob, wait. There’s something I’ve been wanting to ask you. How can we get Naomi and Bill back on speaking terms? Is that it? A few extravagant claims by a few… disgruntled former employees? First, I have three clients who were wrongfully terminated in a classic act of retaliation when they made specific, credible allegations of sexual harassment. I don’t know. I think the word “credible” is doing a lot of work in that sentence. I expect discovery will uncover plenty of evidence. Can’t discover facts that don’t exist. And the man accused in all of this bears no resemblance to the one I worked with for decades. Oh, please. Even before these women came to me, I heard the rumors about Mike. Rumors? [chuckles] Pro tip, Naomi. That’s a word you don’t want to use when bringing a lawsuit. It sounds a little desperate. The people who worked with Mike must have a very good idea of how he treated women around here. And I expect a few depositions from your employees will prove very educational. Hmm. Well, sweetheart… if getting my attention was the goal, then you’ve succeeded. Might’ve been easier to pick up a phone, though. Let me give you a pro tip, Dad. You might not want to call me “sweetheart” in court. Sounds a little sexist. It’s not like I was keeping anything from you. I’m only starting to consider a run for president. I’ve only floated the idea past two people, my mother and my grandfather. I see. You were keeping your plans to a tight circle. What I don’t understand is why your husband was not a part of that circle. I guess for the same reason you didn’t tell me you wanted to start reporting again. Okay. For the record, that is one hell of a false equivalence. But… …I see your point. It seems like neither of us are comfortable opening up about what’s… …important to us. What does that say about our relationship, Martin? How did we get to this place? Look, you would’ve served your clients far better if you had just come to me and tried to resolve things more amicably. And fortunately, we can still handle it that way. Oh, can we?

Of course.

Hmm. You withdraw your complaint, with prejudice of course, and we’ll work something out. Now that I’m aware of the situation, I assure you, I will investigate and take appropriate action. Is that how you’re gonna handle this? That you had no idea what was happening right under your nose? Okay, need I remind you, I’ve had a lot on my plate over the past few months? I got divorced, remarried. I went on a honeymoon. So, is it your position that while you were busy handling your personal life, Human Resources took care of ignoring these women’s complaints, issuing them unfair performance evaluations, passing them over for promotions and ultimately letting them go? Didn’t you notice the unusually high turnover in your female staff? Lower-level personnel matters are not my concern. Maybe you don’t understand how a prominent law firm works. I don’t manage staff. I manage high-profile cases. My research shows that Mike Davis brought a lot of these high- profile clients to your firm. I imagine all those hospitals, tech companies and so on pay you some hefty retainers. Your point? It wasn’t in your financial interest to pay too much attention to how your rainmaker, Mike, was treating the “lower-level personnel.” So you turned a blind eye. These women are capable professionals who worked tirelessly to help elevate the standing of your firm and solidify your firm’s reputation as a prominent law firm. But to you, they were invisible. What did it matter if they were being mistreated, stripped of their dignity, their reputations and eventually their livelihoods? All that counted was what Bill Hamilton wanted. And if an inconsequential woman was in the way, she was out. [Bill laughs] Yes. Nice closing, sweetheart. But are we still talking about your clients here? Because that sounds a lot like the complaints you made about my treatment of your mother. Apparently, you have the same M.O. in your professional life as you do your personal one. And if you can’t punish me for one, then you’ll punish me for the other. Is that it? Am I so terrifying you couldn’t be honest with me? It’s not all you. It’s more me being in my head and doubting that this little daydream could even happen. Then Kat and I started to bounce off ideas, and it sort of turned into this little side hustle thing. I swear, once it turned into something, I was gonna tell you, but that’s when Dad and Hayley happened. No way I was gonna dump this on you then. What about all those nights you came and stayed over? We would stay up late, talking into the night. And I loved that. Well, I thought we were becoming friends as well as mother and daughter. And now I find out you couldn’t even share your dreams with me? Mom, you were at the lowest point of your life. There’s no way that I was gonna take away your career from you on top of everything else. You thought I was gonna fall apart. I didn’t want you to feel more abandoned than you already did. This fashion show you planned really does sound killer. And it’s for a good cause. And headlining for three years is not exactly hard labor, so I’ll just do it. Why’d you rip up the contract? You said you were done with modeling. I can hang in there until things smooth out for you. [scoffs] I wouldn’t make that promise, baby. You might find yourself stumbling down a runway in your 70s. Mm-mm. You are officially off the hook. As much as I appreciate you working so hard to protect me, I would be the world’s biggest hypocrite if I tried to stop you from… chasing a dream that is calling your name. Do you mean that, Mom? You’re okay with my decision? “Okay” might be overstating it a little. But I remember being in your shoes. More than that, I remember the fights I had with your grandmother. That woman tried everything short of chains to keep me from leaving home. You took a risk, and it paid off. If I had more sense, I would have been scared of what I was taking on at 17. But… I had my eyes on my own prize, and my focus helped me achieve it. For two glorious years, I was a top model, right up there with Naomi Campbell and Beverly Johnson. And then you met Dad. [Jacob sighs] Look, my only role in this is supporting my wife, not pressuring her into making nice with someone she lost all respect for. Because Bill fell in love with someone other than her mother? Is that really so unforgivable? Hayley, I’m not getting into this with you. Can-can we at least agree that even before I came into the picture, Bill and Dani’s marriage was on the rocks? Oh, is that what he told you? Let me guess, let me guess. “My wife doesn’t understand me.” Or, “You and I have a special connection, Hayley.” Am I close? Bill deserves some happiness in his life. And it shouldn’t cost him his entire family. At least not his daughters. Did he think about what his actions cost his daughters? I don’t think so. Well, I’m sorry that you can’t allow yourself to have a little compassion. Not after he hurt the woman I love. Well, just so you know, I love both Bill and Naomi very much. And I’m gonna keep hoping that someday Naomi will let go of her anger, even if it’s for her own peace of mind. I wouldn’t count on it. I’m disappointed in you, Naomi. You’re surprised by me, Dad. But don’t worry, you’ll recover. It’s unethical for you to try to use these women to retaliate against me. Attacking me is not a winning strategy. Well, neither is using your clients for your own petty vengeance. You used them. I’m holding you accountable. With this flimsy case? Come on. The record shows that these women were let go because of poor performance. It says it right here in your own complaint. Those terminations were retaliatory. No jury will believe that it’s a coincidence that all three women were let go within days of complaining to HR. Okay, I am not worried about my ability to defeat your case, such as it is, in front of a jury. But if you allow this to get that far, it’s gonna be detrimental for everyone.

Hmm.

Do you understand that?

Your clients will get nothing.

My clients will prevail. You’ll be lucky if you’re not laughed out of court. While I’m standing for the rights of three innocent women? Okay, what about the truly innocent employees that work at the firm, hmm? Who are going to be suffering because of your smear campaign? What about them, Naomi? Hmm? People that watched you grow up. Some of them came to your law school graduation, Naomi. This is not like any other case that you’ve brought, sweetheart. People that you know, people that you care about, are going to be hurt by what you’re doing. It’s not too late for you to rethink this thing. I’ll see you in court. [sighs] [chuckles softly] I’ll always be grateful for the way you guided my career, Mom.

You don’t have to say that.

Oh, facts. You’re responsible for my success on the runway and that brand, my following, it’s what’s opening doors for me as a designer. And that pile of money you made will probably be pretty helpful, too, I’d imagine. [laughs] I’ll always take what I learned from you. And not just about the fashion industry, but how to be a boss and not take crap from anyone. I’ll take every bit of that to build my empire. Empire? Excuse me. Okay, so it’s gonna take a little time for us

to reach that status.

Uh-uh. I have no doubt you will reach empires and beyond. I am so proud of you, Chelsea. And I have loved working with you. And although I wish it could last a little longer, I get it. I had to do me. You have to do you. I love you so much, Mom. Tomas? Hi. Can I join you? Oh, my bad. This seat must be for someone else. Enjoy your lunch date. No, Kat, that’s not it. It’s just Hamilton family drama just exploded at work, and I’m stressing the fallout. Oh, God. What did my Aunt Dani do now? It’s not her this time. It’ll be a matter of public record soon, so there’s no harm in telling you. The firm is getting sued. What happened? Some female employees complained about getting sexually harassed by a particular lawyer and claimed that the firm was a hostile work environment. And then they got fired. Whoa. So who’s the creep? Sorry. Um, alleged harasser. You remember that partner I mentioned to you?

The jerk?

Oh, that guy. Yeah, I definitely believe those women. I hope he gets his ass handed to him. If it were just him going down, I wouldn’t care. But a case like this could trash the reputation of the firm. But you’re good at what you do. You can find a better job at a better firm. Bill Hamilton’s practice is top tier. All through law school, I worked to get grades high enough to score a job offer from him. Even if you don’t make partner there, associates trained by Bill can write their own ticket to any firm in the district and beyond. Hmm. So you’ve been playing the long game. Of course. You can’t get anywhere without a plan. Tell me about it. Managing my father’s practice is only the beginning of what I want to do with my life. [chuckles] But this isn’t about me. And I still don’t understand how this qualifies as Hamilton family drama. Oh, yeah, I forgot to mention. The opposing lawyer is your cousin Naomi. She’s suing her father. Aunt Nicole. You just missed Mom. I saw. You two look like you were sharing a special moment. I didn’t want to intrude. I told her I’m giving up modeling to become a designer. Is that what you’ve been working on with Kat? Mom took it pretty well.

That’s a relief.

I know, right? I thought she would flip out or just stop talking to me altogether, but actually, she was… She said she was proud of me. Oh, shoot. And here I am about to tear up all over again. [sniffles] Thank you. [laughing] Meeting Tuesday at 3:00 p.m. is fine on our end, too. Yeah. Okay, thanks. Bye. Sorry about that. I’m used to being interrupted by your office. Maybe… that’s at least part of our issue. Our lives are so hectic that we don’t make time for real conversations. Those are nice words, Martin, but I’m not buying it. You had the perfect opportunity earlier today to tell me that you were thinking about running for president. I didn’t have the words, okay? Normally when I’m faced with this issue, I turn to my husband, the writer, who could help me out. I’ll give you some words. How about, “Hey, Smitty, “the reason I didn’t tell you about my presidential ambitions “is ’cause I thought you’d say there was no way in hell that you would support me in them”? Am I on target? I was afraid you would say that. But do you really feel that way? Before I answer that question, tell me why your grandparents were so dead set against the idea. Oh, I wish I could see the look on my Uncle Bill’s face when he got served. I did see it. And I can tell you, Bill’s not gonna go easy on Naomi just because she’s his daughter. And she’d never expect him to. I’m tight with Chelsea, and so I know that there is nothing easy about being that man’s daughter. I do not envy my cousins. So your father’s not like him? My dad is like anti-Bill. He’s a total family man. Crazy about my mom even after all these years of marriage. Kind of cringe, but honestly, low-key cute. I think that’s pretty awesome. It might also explain some things. Like why I’m holding out for true love? Yeah, it’s them. If I’ve seen the real deal, why would I waste my time on anything less? Well, because it’s fun. That’s not pressure, I swear. You know I respect your position, but I think it’s fair to say you don’t know what you’re missing. Maybe I don’t know, but I can and do imagine. Are you saying you fantasize about having sex? Of course. Have you fantasized about me? What do you think? I think… I need to hear a lot more about this. [laughing] And I think this is a conversation for a different time and a different place. I’m going to meet Chelsea, so I’ll see you later? And that’s a real question.

Real answer?

Mm-hmm. Count on it, Kat. Gran and Granddad don’t think I’m ready for such a major move. And do you blame them? You don’t think I’m up for it? [sighs] You… …are one of the toughest people I know, Martin. So, sure, yeah, you can handle the pressure. And my life’s been an open book for years.

But…

The kids. They can do this, Smitty. They understand that their pop is on a national stage. But a campaign of this magnitude, at minimum, that’s three years of our lives. Both kids would go through their senior year of high school and early college with that stress. Always having to keep their guards up, every little slip they make being a part of a national conversation. That is a lot of pressure for anyone to handle, let alone a teenager. I think you’re underestimating them and how strong our family is to weather anything, together. I don’t know, Martin. I just– I don’t know. You said you were just considering this, right? So we have time to think about it, to weigh the pros and cons, and to, most of all, talk to each other about it. Kind of hurts not having your husband’s unqualified endorsement. You don’t have it yet. I’ll take what I can get. [sighs] Hey. Honey, I know I said I was gonna buy a new piece of furniture for the bedroom, but I saw these outfits and just couldn’t resist. [chuckles] Well, I’m sure you’ll look stunning in them, baby. Must’ve been a slow day at the firm for you to be home so early. Well, my beautiful new wife is the only reason I need to come home early. But you’re right. Today was same old, same old. Intellectual property disputes, proposed mergers. Oh, and Naomi is suing my firm. I have to admit, I’m surprised Dani took the news so well. She didn’t want to give me a hard time like Gran did with her. Oh, Lord, I remember. I’m surprised Gran wasn’t more understanding with her singing and all. That was part of it. Mother didn’t want to see her baby face hard knocks like she did when she took her path. Also, when Dani left, she was out of our lives until she chose to reach out. You guys didn’t even have cell phones back then. And Dani called when she remembered, which was not much. That’s hard on a mother. Well, it’s a good thing she’ll always be able to see my feed. Thanks to her, nobody is more visible than me. That’s true. But we both know you separating yourself from your mother professionally, it’s still gonna be a struggle for her. She gave you a wonderful gift today, Chelsea. I hope you’ll be patient with her if she struggles at times. I get it. And I will be.

Chelsea: I’m done with modeling. I don’t think you realize the pressure you put on that girl. Well, excuse me while I find my tiny violin. You’ve been a great manager. Built one hell of a career for your daughter. I just wonder if you did it for Chelsea. Or to get back what you gave up. [exhales]

Oh, cousin.

Mm! Oh, my goodness. I’m free. I finally worked up enough courage to tell Mom that I’m done modeling and that you and I started our own design company, and she was fine with it. Wait, for real? She tore up this three-year modeling contract. Hallelujah! There is nothing stopping us now. Not one thing. Oh, I can’t wait to get started. And I have some new designs to show you. And I am so ready to see them. But first, I’ve got my own gossip to dish. The other half of your family just blew up.

Hey, babe.

Hi, baby. Since you have a short break, I ordered for you already. Well, thankfully, you always know what I like to eat. Anything interesting happen on the job today? Well, not at the job, but I did run into your stepmother today. Please don’t call her that. Yeah, well, whatever you want to call her, she thinks she and I should team up to negotiate a truce between you and Bill. I don’t know. Hayley is playing peacemaker? When she’s the one responsible for all of this? And trying to enlist my husband as her ally? How did I not see how manipulative she was from the very beginning? Because you’re a good person, Naomi. You saw the best in her, the way you do everybody. And when you told that bitch to go straight to hell? Well, I didn’t… exactly use those words. But I did let it be known I was not buying what she was selling. You say anything about the lawsuit? No, I didn’t. Partly because it wasn’t really my place, but also because I didn’t know if you’d actually go through with it. Oh, I went through with it. Bill Hamilton was served in his office today. Mmm. And I was there to watch it all unfold. And what was that like? Nothing special. [chuckles] None of those women ever said a word of that to me. And Mike was always the perfect gentleman in my presence. I’ll testify to that in court. Well, I appreciate the offer, baby, but I doubt a jury would be impressed to learn that the office letch was smart enough to steer clear of his partner’s girlfriend, now wife. So, are you saying you think Mike is guilty? I don’t know. I don’t know. But it doesn’t matter, because this lawsuit is going away. So you’ll settle with Naomi, or will you kick Mike out of the firm? I’m just gonna keep all my options open at this point. Yeah, but one thing I do know is that this case will never see the inside of a courtroom. Really? When Naomi gets this fired up about something? Oh, oh, oh, and she is fired up. Listen, she started arguing the case right there in my office. Went toe to toe with me. Just the way I taught her. [chuckles] Sounds like you’re glad she’s suing you. Oh, I certainly don’t want to have to make mincemeat out of Naomi in court. I mean, she’s still my baby, after all. Which is why I’m gonna give her what she needs instead of what she thinks she wants. She wants to win her case, Bill. No, no, she wants to prove herself to her dad. Right? This isn’t the way to do it, but… Look, this case is a shambles based on the misinterpretations by a bunch of, well, hysterical women. Right? What she needs is me back in her life. And this lawsuit puts me in a position to remind her of how much we have in common and how much fun we have arguing the law with each other. Once she remembers that… I think our relationship is gonna get back on track. Mmm. I’d love nothing more than for you and Naomi to be as close as you were before. I was just telling Jacob that earlier when I ran into him. He knew about the lawsuit. That’s why he blew me off.

Hey, baby. Hey, hey, hey.

Wow. Hey. Calm down, Hayley. This is nothing to be upset about, okay? Look, Naomi could have referred her clients to any social justice warrior, but she didn’t. She will never admit it, but this is her way

of reaching out to me.

[phone vibrates] Mm. This is Mike. Obviously, I got to take this. Mike. Yeah. Mm-hmm. [sighs] Confronting your father like that must’ve been hard for you. It was the most familiar thing in the world. Arguing is how my father and I communicate. He started off by trying to undermine the legitimacy of the accusations. And he called the women liars. Used jury-friendly words like mistaken and misguided, but basically, yes. They have to be lying or at least exaggerating. And then, and then, he went into how disappointed he was in my “unethical behavior.”

What?

Yeah.

In yours?

Yes. Bill Hamilton 101: call the other attorney’s motives into question. Kind of made me miss him. I know him, and all of his tactics. And I thought I was prepared for anything he might dish out, but… …when he attacked me, personally, it hurt. Babe, come here. If you think this is becoming too hard for you to handle, there’s no shame in letting another attorney handle the case. Is that what you want? I want what you want. Full stop. Naomi will never back down. She’s gonna hold Dad’s feet to the fire. I just don’t understand why she didn’t tell me about this herself. She didn’t tell me. Tomas did. He was in the room when Bill got served. Oh, so you and Tomas are chatting it up?

What’s stopping us?

Well, didn’t you say he was put off by the whole virginity thing? Oh, I thought he might be, but he was cool with it, so we’re straight. Except for that little witch Eva. Now, what does she have to do with it? I overheard her flirting with him. Uh-oh. And did he flirt back? He has much better taste than that. No, he’s a good guy. Aww, you like him. Maybe. Well, finally, somebody who’s worth your time. But there’s still no need to rush. Okay. Seriously. Only go for it when the man and the time are right. [sighs] [R&B music playing] [phone vibrating] [vibrating continues] A rock and a hard place…Sorry again. I didn’t know I was going to be cornered by one of my constituents. I’m used to it. The chicken special looks interesting, but I do always love the meatloaf. 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. Sounds great, but Smitty’s focused on other things. There’s no point to even bothering him with it. You sure about that?

Smitty: How about you get the meatloaf and I’ll get the special, and we’ll split it? What do you say? I don’t know. Let me look at the menu. I don’t believe it. Evan. Evan. Hey. Come here. Hey. How are you?

Hi.

Hey, Martin. Hey, Smitty, it is so good to run into you like this.

Yeah.

Listen, I still need someone for that investigative reporter job. Look, I know, I know. Martin told me you weren’t looking to get back into work, but I could really use someone with your skills. I mean, what can I say to change your mind? Martin said I wouldn’t be interested? Maybe we can add a contrasting trim? Sure, I can play around with that when I have some time. I have time. Oh, it’s finally sinking in. I get to do what I love full-time without having to work it around fittings and photo shoots. I just… I wish it didn’t mean bailing on Mom. Don’t go there, Chels. Aunt Dani could have fought you, but she didn’t. In a way, she’s being set free, just like you are. Her life doesn’t have to revolve around her husband or her kids anymore. All true. But I think it’s gonna be a long time before she sees it that way. God… How young you were. Had the world by the tail at 17. Regular on the runways in Europe. [chuckles] Designers falling all over your young ass. Too damn hard-headed to take any warnings from people even if they wanted to. I wish I could go back and warn you. So you could make different choices. So you could avoid some of the pain ahead. [breath trembling] What the hell do you think you’re doing?

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Beyond The Gates Transcript

 

Transcript provided by Suzanne and Thane

THIS STILL NEEDS SOME EDITING!

[door opens]

Chelsea: Gran. Chelsea? Not that you need an excuse to visit, but I thought you and your mother were finalizing the fashion show today. I know Dani’s just bursting about it. Yeah, about that.

Waiter: Mrs. Dupree.

Oh.

Good morning. May I suggest our elderberry bellini? Um… just an orange juice to start. You got it. On second thought, maybe a splash of vodka.

One screwdriver coming up.

Thank you. [phone vibrating] Hello, Pamela. Are you kidding? Without you, I could have been discovered in the newlyweds’ living room like freaking Goldilocks. Actually, we didn’t get away with it. Hayley stormed into my place and totally went off. Broke one of my picture frames like I broke hers. To be honest, it shook me. I would have called, but I found a… rather muscular shoulder to cry on. Oh, I got to go. Daddy just got here. Bye. Mm! It’s a nice surprise. What brings you here? Mm, breakfast with your mother. Yeah. Glad I ran into you, sweetheart. I want to talk with you about Bill and Hayley.

Bill.

Oh, hey, Mike. Here are the case files, complete with precedent rulings and relevant statutes. Always above and beyond, Tomas. You know, why don’t you sit in with us while we discuss it? Uh, I thought you might want to review Pender v. Harrison,too, since it’s on point.

It’s there on the bottom.

[Mike laughs] Speaking of bottoms, have you heard the one about the virgin, the prostitute and the stripper? [Mike laughs] Good morning, ladies. Please sit. Naomi, we want to start by thanking you for taking the time to meet with us again.

Of course.

We know how busy you must be.

Carrie: So we’ll make this quick. We’re here to tell you that your services are no longer needed. Just forget we ever asked. You don’t like the way your mother’s producing the fashion show, and you want more input. Kind of the opposite. Can you take a look at something? Oh, this is gorgeous. Obviously couture by the looks of it, but I don’t recognize the designer. It’s a Chelsea Dupree original. I designed it, and Kat’s gonna help me sell it. You created this? For our new company. And the purse is just the start. We want to expand into a fashion house on the levels of Telfar and Brandon Blackwood with me designing every piece and Kat bringing in the business. Well, wouldn’t that be difficult to juggle with the modeling? Oh. And your mother doesn’t know. Bill and Hayley who? Nice try, but I know it’s impossible to forget about them. And I will never, never forgive that man for putting you through the wringer. And then I did the same thing to you and Mom. Brought drama to the wedding, the arrest. Suffice it to say… you’ve been a handful lately, as always. But you’re my handful. Know that I’m here for you, baby. Proud and duty-bound to care for my girls. And the next generation, too. [pounds desk] Martin? Babe, tell me what’s wrong. The prostitute says to the virgin and the stripper, “Oh, you don’t want to compare poles.” [laughs] And then, and then there’s the one… Okay, that-that’s enough, Mike, okay? Come on, man, we talked about this. You’re the human definition of NSFW. What’s that?

Tomas and Bill: “Not safe for work.” It’s a joke. Okay, then you’re fortunate that none of the female partners, associates and paralegals were around to find it not funny. We realized, belatedly, it was a massive overstep asking you to represent us. Yeah, it’s public knowledge that things between you and your father aren’t copacetic. But still, he’s your dad. And the lawsuit? Oh, we still intend to make those creeps pay, even if it takes us a minute to find representation. We figured, when you didn’t get back to us, you had doubts. I did. Um… I had a tough time with this decision. See, I told you. Until I realized I not only know how my dad works, I know how to take his firm down. I’m yours, if you’ll have me. I know I sound like an ungrateful, spoiled brat, and there are a million girls who would kill to take my place on the runway. I only care about my granddaughter. But, Chelsea, I-I’ve seen you doodling. But how did it go from portrait sketches on the fridge to this level of talent without me knowing about it? Remember how mom says I used to pull clothes into my stroller when I was a baby? [laughs] Yes, your model origin story. Well, we both thought it was in my fate to follow in her high heels. But along the way, I became much more interested in how the clothes are made. That’s what got me hyped, the designers’ process. Vision, brand identity, creation, even production. Business plan not so much, but Kat’s got that on lock. And when I showed her some of my sketches, she was all in on making my dream, our dream. Kat would leave her father’s practice? Well, Uncle Ted always knew she wanted her own business, so at least he’ll be thrilled about that. And we started working on prototypes months ago. And then, all of a sudden, it was more than just a dream. Which means that I have to be real with Mom. I just really don’t know how. Well, tell her like you told me. When her whole identity is wrapped up in being my momager? It’s like I’m ripping the runway right out from under her, Gran. And I’m her last connection to that world. Listen, sweetheart. My mother almost lost her mind when I told her that I was going to tour the country with the Articulettes. Really? And your grandfather and I did not want Dani to go to New York to be a model. You will be the third generation of Dupree women striking out on her own. And I’m all for that. So, you just better name a bag after me.

The Anita does have a nice ring to it.

Mm-hmm. So, if your mother has a dynamic reaction…

She will.

…we will all be here to bring her back down to earth. Now, give your grandmother a hug and show me some more of these designs.

[laughs]

Okay. Can we just hold off on show and tell for now? I need to face Mom before I lose my nerve. You got this. Chelsea Dupree is made of formidable stuff. [chuckles] Trouble is, so is Mom. Sorry, Daddy, I got to motor. I don’t want to be late for the charity event planners. So proud of you. All those years, you helped Bill to build his legacy, and now you’re building yours with your daughter. It’s like you turned your light back on. How do you always know exactly what I need to hear? Years of practice. [laughs] I love you. I will see you in a bit. Love you. Good morning, Senator Dupree. What can I get you? Just coffee to start, Ford. Mrs. Dupree will be joining me momentarily. Sounds good. I’ll be right back with your coffee and menus. Mm. Don’t mind if I do. DANI: Whoops. I forgot my OJ. Mmm. Fresh squeezed. See you, Daddy. Love to Mommy. These blurry eyes come from staying up late working on the child tax bill. I can’t get the numbers to add up right. Don’t say that around Tyrell. He’ll take it as permission. They’re changing every day. And… I know how dedicated you are to your constituents, but I don’t want you to miss time with the ones who love you most. I just need to get through this critical time, and then I’ll be golden. You have the district in the palm of your hand, Congressman. [scoffs] Yes, but I can’t rest on my laurels. It’s imperative that I grow my base. If not, I’m just standing still. You don’t have an election this year. You almost sound like you’re ready to run for higher office. 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.

ANITA: Sorry I’m late.

Ah. Is it possible that you’re even more stunning than when I left you this morning? [chuckles] Charmer. Actually, Chelsea stopped by. She was on her way here to meet Dani, and she wanted some advice from me. I had a few minutes with Dani. How does she seem? Didn’t you see her on the way in? Just a wave.

She was busy.

Oh. Well, this time with Bill has left quite the aftertaste. True, but was she open, receptive or…? Well, for the first time in a long time, her energy was not just flailing around in reaction to Bill. She was focused on Chelsea and this show. Never thought I’d say this, but thank goodness for fashion. This show and our granddaughter might just… Vernon, I’m gonna stop you there. ‘Cause I’m about to burst your balloon. Well, Chelsea is on model time, but she’s just as excited as I am to dive in. Well, while we wait, we can bow down to you for that wedding performance. Performance? JONATHAN: You were always this mysterious, untouchable aspiration. Then when you shot up that wedding with your feelings raw and your pain on display, you did it all looking fabulous. You shot your way right into our hearts. Dani Dupree is brat. And that live stream was fire. And taking out those flowers?

Fierce.

So fierce. They totally deserved it. The flowers or Bill and Hayley? Julia and Jonathan: Both. [laughter] Well, as I said at the press conference, I do regret my actions. But from a brand perspective, I find your take informative and uplifting. Tell me more. So, ladies, will I have the honor of representing you? Can you be a shark? Because anything less isn’t good enough. Well, I’ve seen Jaws a trillion times. It’s my dad’s favorite film. And he identified with the shark, not the innocent people, right? Sorry, we shouldn’t pile on your dad. No. No, no, no. My dad deserves every bit of derision he gets. And I will use everything I know about him to take him and the firm on. Because I believe you were wrongly fired and you deserve damages. There’s no doubt or hesitation? You see, sexual harassment claims can be extraordinarily brutal. You will have to each go into explicit detail about what Mike said and did to you.

Carrie: We get that. And they will dissect everything. Your wardrobes, your social media presence, your personal relationships, and it’s not fair. It’s not fair, but it’s where we are. We get that, too. We’re ready. In addition, the hostile work environment claim requires that you prove that the firm itself had knowledge of Mike Davis’s actions and that they either looked the other way or punished you for speaking up about that harassment. And I know it wasn’t easy telling your story, but that’ll be a cakewalk compared to what it’ll be like in front of a jury, the press and the Hamilton legal team. Wait, wait, so you’re saying your dad will be named a defendant, too? Under the letter of the law, I have no choice. I have to go after him. I held a work dinner at a place where the sushi bar was a conveyor belt of naked models. Okay. Mike… Relax, Bill. I’ll be safe for work from here on out. Tomas and I will, uh, save our sushi for off the clock, huh? Leave me out of this, please.

Bill: Look, look, hey. What you do outside of billable hours is not my problem, all right? But D.C. is a big, small town, and I don’t want to see any blind items about this law firm’s aging bad boy. Says the man whose shot-up wedding was just live streamed on every device in the country. Okay, look, I’m not trying to take the moral high ground here, Mike. I’m just being practical. I can be a very good boy. Of course, there are some women who were put on this earth, and sometimes in this very office, that can test a man’s resolve.

Like the new Mrs. Hamilton.

Hey, hey, hey. You keep Hayley’s name out your mouth, partner. All right? You say one more untoward remark about my wife, you’re gonna find yourself on the other side of that window dangling by your ankles. And I might lose my grip. And your ex, who replaced champagne with light beer and invited you to watch it? Okay, that’s what I’m talking about. Can I employ you two indefinitely? Oh, Chelsea bear, there you are. I was just getting to know Jonathan and Julia. They’re my new besties. I’m such a fan. Like, you’re so authentic.

Thank you.

Okay, down to business. Now, I have the specs for the runway, but I think we might want to go with a more unifying theme, especially if we want the Silas Ryker dress from the Smithsonian as our showstopper. I’m thinking for the other pieces, we can lean into the, uh, First-Gen Grant foundation, our family, fashion through time, you know, leaning into the sort of the retro meets now… While it seems Chelsea has… given her plans a lot of thought, Martin is rushing headfirst into danger. Anita… …he-he wants to run for president. No. Oh, no, Vernon. Not now, not ever. We talked about him leaving politics entirely when all of this began. But his abrupt resignation would have brought suspicion. If he were to run for higher office, he’d face another round of vetting. The scrutiny. Our boy’s secret is so explosive, it could decimate his life. Forget about political ambitions. There’d be no… no shielding Smitty and the kids from the fallout. They’d be collateral damage. Ted and Nicole raised Martin to be who he wanted, and we encouraged him every step of the way. He was our golden boy. We should have added a caveat. Never make a mistake. So how does he plan to pull this off? Martin thinks he’s diligent enough to keep his secret hidden. In this day and age? Nothing is off-limits or cannot be uncovered. You can’t walk down the street with your dog off-leash without the press getting wind of it. How could he be so naïve? Or arrogant? Well, now, I wonder where he got that from. All the more reason that I should be the one to head him off, before it’s too late. [Smitty sighs] I try to give you the CliffsNotes as much as I can, but Samantha notices if you get the name of the boy she likes wrong. And Tyrell needs to know that you know which test he got a “B” in. All important in the here and the now. But for their future, I want to make moves that my kids are proud of. Make you proud. What are you trying to say? Relax. I’m not revving up for anything at the present.

Okay?

Okay. And since, as you say, it’s a critical time for the kids, maybe you should hold off on returning to work for a little bit. Mm-mm. No. No, we agreed that we wanted the kids to have two parents who are fulfilled. Yes, and I should have been on board sooner. I couldn’t have made it this far without you on my side, Smitty. And when I think about politics and serving our country, I think of it as our dream.

Not just mine.

It is our dream. But writing is a piece of me, too. One that I put aside for way too long. I get that. I’ve been thinking maybe fear stops change. But it won’t stop us anymore. We’re gonna get everything that we want in the present and in the future. You know, it is very sexy when you agree with me. I’ll have to remember that. [phone vibrating] Mm.

[sighs]

Do you have to? Ah, take it. VERNON: Hi, Martin. I’m here with your grandmother, and we’re hoping you can join us at the club. I’d love to have breakfast with my two favorite grandparents, but I’m wrapping up the tax bill and some other pressing matters. Son, this isn’t a request. We’ll see you as soon as you get here. Does Vernon want you to drop everything and meet him? That’s weird. I thought he was just as anxious to finish the tax bill as you were. You know Granddad. It’s probably just family business. I should change. [sighs] [chuckles]: You should see your face. I would never hit on Hayley. It was just getting as heavy as one of those mandatory HR seminars. Had to lighten the mood. Well, you failed epically. No disrespect, partner, but I’d think a guy who fell for his new wife in the office would see the irony in you schooling me on what’s appropriate in the workplace. No offense. I was just feeling nostalgic for the old Bill. But… [stammers] …I know young love will make you feel whi– …sensitive. I’ll leave you guys to this. Sorry about that. If Mike didn’t have so many wins in court, I’d buy him out yesterday. And for the record, I’m not sensitive. You’re a man in love. And it’s not my place to say what Mike is. [chuckles] Out of line is what he is. I normally can put Mike in his place without breaking a sweat, but when he went for Hayley, patience took a hike. I won’t stand by and let him or anyone else disrespect her. Nor should you. Pender v. Harrison. What is it? Naomi and I used to try this case over dinner. How’d that work out? I, you know, outlined the specifics, then I challenged her to argue against me, and she was brilliant. Who won? Well, we’re still debating about that. [laughs] I mean, that’s– Or we used to. Look, it’s just… I don’t know, just– Naomi and Chelsea. [sighs] I never would’ve imagined being this distant from them. Any shot at reconciliation? Well, yeah, sometimes I see a glimmer of hope with Chelsea, but Naomi? I think I lost her. As we discussed, Bill Hamilton will be named as a co-plaintiff on the hostile workplace charge. And Mike Davis will be named alone in the sexual harassment charge. Yes, that’s correct. Are we ready to proceed? Naomi, are you really prepared to go all wrecking ball on Bill? If you do this for us, the consequences for the relationship with your father could be dire. Only if we win. And I assure you, we will. You know, I thought time would heal the rift between Naomi and me, but it’s taking too damn long. And if I don’t do something to mitigate this, then hating her father could be… I don’t know, it could become a habit. Have you tried talking to her? Yeah. Shut me down right before the wedding. Told me I’m dead to her. Ouch. That’s wild. I mean, seeing how Naomi was with you before everything went down, she used to look up to you like you were some kind of lawyer god. Yeah. Man, when she took the LSATs, enrolled in law school, mentally I was already adding another Hamilton to the shingle. I always wondered why she never took her place here as the heir apparent. I just figured she didn’t want to be in your impressive shadow. No, Naomi’s not the least bit intimidated by me. But she got disillusioned with me before either of us met Hayley. About what? Ah, doesn’t matter. Yeah, I thought she’d get past it once she started her own firm and saw a little more of the way the world and the law worked. Then came Hayley.

I wish I could help.

[chuckles] Yeah, nice offer, but it’s gonna take a lot of maneuvering to get back into my girls’ good graces. At least you haven’t given up. Have you met me? Come on. Get out of here and get back to work. Those billable hours won’t rack up by themselves. Yes, sir. [door closes] [sighs] I want to make things right with you and your sister. That’s why I came looking for you. To at least make a start at getting us back on track. Look, I’m not interested in your justifications for what’s inexcusable. As a matter of fact, I’m not interested in anything you have to say. As far as I’m concerned, my father is dead. What’s our next move? I already made it. I took the liberty of drawing up the complaint. [Naomi clears throat] I’ve drafted so many of these, but I’ve never seen one with my name on it. It hits different. Makes it more real. But nothing is official until the papers are served, which I can do right now with your permission. You’ve got it. Can we ride along? I would kill to see Mike’s smug face fall. No, you can’t. [laughs] But I do need a verbal affirmation from each of you. Yes, please. Yes, but there’s one other thing.

About your fee.

Oh. I’m taking this case on contingency. So you won’t make a cent until we do? When we’re done, you’ll have more money than you’ll know what to do with. What about you, Stefania? Am I doing this? We want more than money. We want justice. And we want it to be loud. Loud enough so it doesn’t happen to anyone else. I want that, too. Well, Counselor, you’re hired. Okay. I’ll get this paper served. Thank you, Naomi. Of course. Thank you, ladies.

We’ll speak soon.

Yeah.

Thank you.

Take care. [sighs heavily] He can’t make it an hour without this.

Good morning.

Grandmother. Who died? Your career. If you even think about running for the presidency. You told her. Your grandmother and I have no secrets from each other. What do you plan to do if this all were to come out? I can control the flow of the information. Your information, yes. But not the dirt that your opponents will spend millions to dig up. And need we remind you there are people who know your secret, and at least one of them cannot be trusted? Martin, you have the benefit of our experience. Heed it. You need to let this thing go before it’s too late. We will definitely see you again.

Yes.

Cannot wait to work with you.

Aw, thanks.

[laughter] Bye. Wow, Mom, you’ve really killed this. And landing Jonathan and Julia? They’ve been the hottest planners in the game since that California Royals party. Well, we are way behind schedule. The designers seem to think they have months to get these outfits together. Media’s all over me.

And I’m loving every minute.

[laughs] I feel like a new woman. Well, I’m glad you’ve turned your life around. And now it’s your turn, baby. What do you mean? You think I don’t know how important it is for you to put your name on something you can be proud of? Expanding your brand so you can join the billionaire girls club? So you know?

I do.

[exhales] And that is why I have negotiated this contract for you. You will be the face of the fashion show for the next three years, ironclad and binding. I love you so much, baby. [phone ringing] Yes, Caroline? Who is it? Yeah. Yeah, yeah. Put her through. Hayley. Hey, darling. What’s wrong? Mm-hmm. Uh, yeah, okay. I’m sure that’s the perfect piece for our bedroom, but you don’t have to check in with me every time you buy something, baby. That’s why, that’s why I gave you the card. Okay. All right. Well, you’re the moon and stars to me, baby. Okay? All right. All right. Love you, too. I have a dream, and you two are the ones who gave it to me, even more so than my parents. And now you’re instructing me to be satisfied, sit back and settle being congressman? Leave it at that?

Son…

No, Granddad. You ran for senator, and you won. And I thought the idea was for every generation to achieve more than the one before. And you still can. Uh, Gandhi, Desmond Tutu, Mother Teresa, Greta Thunberg, John Lewis, and that great man you’re named after. What is that list? Men and women who have had an impact on the world that is the same or even greater than that of the Oval Office. Oh, I see. This is your famous carrot and stick trick. Offer the loser something else, and then convince him it’s better than the thing he really wants. You can still do work that is consequential, Martin. There are causes that are screaming for attention, from criminal justice to ending poverty, without sitting in that office. A foundation might be a good place to start.

And we can certainly support that.

MARTIN: Mm-hmm. Throw money at the problem, since now I’m the problem. That’s not what we’re saying. No, what you’re saying is I’m not presidential material. After a lifetime of teaching me to reach for the sky, now you’re knocking me down once it’s in sight. Naomi. Hey. C-Come in, come in. I’ll have Caroline make you a latte. Have a seat. I’m good. Okay. You know, sit, stand. I’m just glad you came. I assume you got my text.

Dad…

Hey, listen, baby, I know it’s gonna take a lot more than that to fix everything that’s broken between us, but I want you to know I’m all in on making it up to you and Chelsea. I mean, you girls… …you’ve always been my heart. I believe you when you say that. And that you mean it, too, when you just said to Hayley that she’s the moon and the stars. [chuckles softly] Hayley’s my wife now. And, yes, I love her. But that’s… that’s completely different and separate from the love I have for you. Right. [clears throat] Sweetheart. You’re my firstborn. My heart nearly burst open the first time I held you. And now… now to see you grow up into this strong and astute lawyer just makes me love you even more now. You’re a part of me, the best part, Naomi. Can’t you just be honest and admit you still love your old man? Huh? Can we start there? I mean, otherwise, what are you doing here? Tomas, I’m in the middle of something here. I’m sorry, Bill, this can’t wait. We have a problem. That’s enough, Martin. Remember where you are. I’m in the world you gave me. And it would’ve meant everything to me to have your blessing. But don’t worry, you can still sleep in the Lincoln bedroom when you come visit. I will forever honor you both. Even if you don’t believe in me. Martin. [sighs]: Well… that went well. [scoffs softly] Where is that damn thing? Looking for this? Oh, thank goodness. My whole life is in that damn phone. I know. That’s why I went to the club to deliver it to you. We must have just missed each other. Yeah. Apparently, I did miss something. Now who’s withholding career plans, Mr. President? I already had the lawyers take a look. It’s all standard. Three years guaranteed as the headliner. And all you have to do is sign. I can’t. I’m done with modeling. Bill Hamilton? Yes. You’ve been served. Who’d have the nerve to pull this crap? I thought you came to reconcile. And you’re suing me?

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Beyond The Gates Transcript

 

Transcript provided by Suzanne and Thane

THIS STILL NEEDS SOME EDITING!

When she was good, she was very, very good. But when she was bad, she was better. That’s me. DANI: We have got to get everything back where it was. There cannot be one speck of evidence that can be used against me. I could have sworn I set the security code before we left, babe. The alarm was off. Yeah, the scratched picture. The bottle of wine obviously replaced. BOTH: Dani. That bitch broke in here.

Hey!

Oops. When the two of them are gushing about their perfect legendary love affair, then, boom! I’ll blow it all up. Elon, it’s good to see you.

It’s good to see you.

[chuckling] Thank you for squeezing me in this morning. Oh, anything for a good cause.

Coffee?

Please. Now, before we jump in, I need to catch up. How’s Darlene? My wife is as sassy as ever. Can’t nothing slow that woman down. She’s a full-time wife. A full-time mother. Full-time at dispatch. She’s been wearing that 91dispatch headset for years. Any talk of retirement? I can’t imagine Metro without Darlene the dispatcher. And Darlene can’t imagine them without her either. [both laugh] And the boys? The boys haven’t been boys for a while. Yeah, where does the time go? Yeah, and we know what Jacob’s been up to. Well, we can skip over the wedding fiasco

and Dani’s arrest.

Yeah. He was torn up about that one, Anita. We understand Jacob is a dedicated officer of the law. And he did what he had to do according to his code of conduct. My son is nothing if not by the book, so… He and Naomi are happy together and thriving in their careers.

That’s what matters.

Yes. And Luke? Forging his own way in the department.

Good for him.

Yeah.

We’ve both been blessed.

Amen. [Anita chuckles] Well, let’s get down to business. Okay. I really appreciate you getting involved in the Fallen Officer Fund. Oh, well, everyone at the foundation is really excited to participate.

It’s such a worthy charity.

Good. Send me an email about who we should contact over there regarding logistics, and I’ll pass it along. Pass it along? Oh, no, this is not a “set it up and walk away” kind of meeting. No, sir. You are getting the Anita Dupree experience. I plan to be hands-on. This is the kind of work that fills my soul. You skipped out so early this morning, I figured you’d need to refuel. You sure this is not my reward for how I put it down last night? Jacob, stop. All right, enough of the chest beating. Maybe I was just trying to be a good wife. Uh-huh. And I’m Michelle Obama. Come here. But for real? You good? Can’t hide anything from you, now, can I, Detective? No, you can’t. So what’s up? It’s about me taking this sexual harassment case against my dad’s firm. Look, I’m not sure it’s a good idea. It’s certain to bring out a lot of media attention. You like keeping things low-key. Exactly. Yeah, that’s a tough one. But remember, the spotlight shines both ways. What do you mean? Well, your father’s firm has something to hide. And some secrets deserve to be brought out into the light. [phone buzzing]

Vanessa: Hmm, what’s going on? Got a hot side piece I should know about? Hotter than you? Baby, you’re my side piece, appetizer and main course. I have no room for anything else. How romantic. [phone chimes] [soul music playing] It’s the hospital. I’m waiting on a new cardiac CT to be delivered. Ooh, sounds fancy. State of the art? Oh, you know it. This bad boy can detect heart problems before they even pop up. With images clear as an HDTV. A machine like that could put you out of business, Doug. Then what would you do with all your free time? Well, spending time with my beautiful wife, of course. And driving her crazy 24-7. I got to bounce. Unsure when I’m gonna be home. Love you. Have fun with your new toy. Oh. Doug, you forgot your I.D. Mrs. McBride. Just the person I wanted to see.

Chelsea: What’s up, fam? Just bodied that workout. Shout-out to these leggings. Don’t we look snatched?

Oh.

Mm-mm. [both laugh]

That was cute.

That was cute. Uh-oh, these comments are kind of wild. Camel toe? Did this fool just– Uh-uh. Okay, uh, “Let’s keep it cute. We are here for the fits, not the foolishness.” Ooh. Damn, your followers got no chill. You should see my DMs. Are they hype about the purse line, at least? I’m waiting for the right moment to drop that bomb. You better make it soon. That luxury brand keeps reaching out. They want to collaborate. But that’s not what we’re about, Kat. We are building our own Black luxury clothing empire, remember? High-quality but still accessible. Mm-hmm. Plus I don’t want some wack-ass boomer brand telling me what I can and can’t do on my own stream. I feel that. I just thought I’d run it by you. It’s a big bag to turn down. Well, ours is gonna be way bigger. Plus my follower count went up 30% since Mom went all Kill Bill. Hold up. If your social media’s popping off, why aren’t we using the extra eyes to announce our purse line?

Chelsea!

Oh. This madness has to stop. You’ve got to quit stalling and tell Aunt Dani your modeling days are done. [sighs] Woman [over P.A.]: Orderly to 211. [groaning]: Damn it! Here, let me, let me help. That cart came out of nowhere.

I’m, like, mortified right now.

Don’t stress it. So what brings a bougie lawyer like you to our humble hospital? Chasing ambulances? [chuckles] Just checking on a client. Uh, h-how’s the knee situation? Want me to chase you down some ice? I think I’ll live. Just need a sec. So what would Kat think if she saw you playing Captain Save-a-Chick to some random woman? Kat? Oh, uh, we’re not… Actually, I don’t know what we are. I-I guess we’re just hanging out. Keeping it casual. Is that right?

Good to know.

[over P.A.]: Nurse to room 818. Joey Armstrong. May I join you?

Actually, I was just about to leave.

This won’t take long. In that case, what can I do for you, Mr. Armstrong? Well… …I understand that you’re about the best there is at what you do, and I would like to request your special services. So, you can stand up to a whole billion-dollar brand, but you can’t tell your own mom you’re switching up your career? Make it make sense. I know. It’s giving clown, isn’t it? You’re supposed to be this TikTok baddie. Where is all of that energy? Well, sometimes baddies need help, Kat. So either help or back off. All right. Practice on me. I’ll be Aunt Dani. Okay. Mom, I have something to tell you, and you’re not gonna like it. Oh, no, that’s trash. It sounds like somebody died. Or you’re preggo. Yeah, don’t start like that. Maybe we should just take things slow. Like put it on ice for a bit. You’re joking, right? Chelsea, I’ve been busting my ass to get this thing off the ground. I know, but– I even missed my mom’s award ceremony. And now you want to hit pause ’cause you’re dodging some awkward conversation with your mom? It’s not just awkward, Kat. Mom’s going through it. Oh, my bad. I forgot she’s the only one with feelings. Well, you’re wilding right now. You don’t know her struggle. She’s living vicariously through me, trying to relive her glory days. She’s lost Dad, her marriage. Me modeling is all she has left. This purse business is the first step towards your dream of having your own clothing line. Don’t let worrying about Aunt Dani send it into crash and burn. I hear you. I just can’t hurt my mom. Not right now. So, what’s really holding you back? My family just went through a very public meltdown. If I go against my father in court now, it’ll reignite the whole media circus. And you’re afraid the scandal will overshadow the case itself. I mean, there’s no way to avoid it. The press would be all over the “daughter versus father” angle, eager to dig up our family’s dirty laundry again. And those brave women who came forward, their stories would get lost in the noise. That’s a valid concern. So what happens if you don’t do it? These women could lose their day in court because none of the lawyers they reached out to want to go up against scary Bill Hamilton. So it’s me or nobody. Or is that hubris? What do I do? I can’t tell you. But there’s someone who can. And I spoke with Gabe, and everything is set at the club. He’s even giving us a discount on the catering. Amazing. I might as well send the fund’s event manager on vacation. Oh, don’t you dare. There’s a lot of work to do. There’s invitations and auction items and booking a musical act and… And you get my point. Yeah, I wouldn’t be surprised if we doubled the donations from last year. Doubled? I am aiming to set an all-time record.

And I’ll do it, too.

I know you will. Nobody throws a party like Anita Dupree.

[laughing]: Preach.

[phone chimes, buzzes] Oh, Jacob needs to see me. Mm. I better get over to the station. All right, well, I will reach out to Darlene. We need to get a, uh, in-laws brunch on the books. Yeah. You know what? You’ll make her day. She loves hearing your Articulettes stories. You know, Darlene puts on your old records and pretends she’s in the group. [chuckles] But let’s keep that between us, okay? Yeah. What’s a secret between friends? Yeah. Yeah, right.

Take care.

Right.

I’ll see you soon.

Looking forward to it. [line rings] Good morning. The chief of police just left. Correct. And I ran the ideas by him for the Fallen Officer Fund event, and Elon was very pleased. So I’ll update the proposal and send it over. Great. Any other pressing matters? Send it over and I’ll review it. [laughs] Yes, I do like to fill up my days. Here. Grab a seat. Your files all accounted for. You didn’t happen to slide your card in here, did you? In case I want to explore my options for suing the hospital… over dinner? Well, if it’s a case you’re serious about, who am I to turn down a potential client? What planet are you from? Planet? Men, Mars. Women, Venus. And you’re from…? How about a beautiful little place called Puerto Rico?

Ah, like Bad Bunny.

Yeah, he’s a big deal there. We’re all about that Boricua pride. It’s got me in my feels just thinking about it. I bet Kat’s gonna be in her feels, too, when you take her. Why do you keep name-dropping Kat? Did she say something to scare you away from me? Let’s leave it at: she definitely doesn’t need another reason to hate on me. She makes up enough reasons on her own. Look, I messed up. I’ve been so focused on business, I forgot how tough this is for you and Aunt Dani.

Kat, I–

Let me finish. What if you could spin this in a way where Aunt Dani won’t get in her feelings?

Like how?

Think about it. You could break down how your social media game is turning into a whole business. Like, why use your clout for others when you can go into business for yourself? So frame it like I’m not ditching her vision, just leveling it up? You’re not just following in her footsteps. You’re blazing your own trail. And I could explain how my following gives me a platform that she never had. There are opps now that didn’t even exist back in her day. So I could take what she taught me and apply it to the digital age. That’s low-key genius. But what if she doesn’t see it that way? Then at least you stayed true to yourself, which you know is what Aunt Dani would do. JOEY: It’s my mother. She’s not getting any younger, and my siblings are pushing for a retirement home. That’s her worst nightmare. That is a tough situation. What can I do to help? I would like to buy my mother her dream home. Give her some dignity. That’s really sweet. I imagine you want a place she can live comfortably. Something designed for the elderly. And I understand that you are the go-to Realtor for that kind of thing. A son looking out for his mother. I might have misjudged you at first. How so? That’s not important. Let’s focus on finding the perfect home for your mother, shall we? As much as I’d enjoy hanging out, Kat’s mom is my boss, and I can’t risk my job over some guy I barely know. Oh, so even talking’s an issue? Depends on where it leads. [laughs] I can’t even with you. You’re straight-up dangerous. Well, thank you for the compliment. I’d return it, but I don’t want to lead you into temptation. Please. See you. WOMAN [over P.A.]: Nurse to room 818. Oh, and I meant what I said. Kat’s a lucky girl. [soul music playing] [line rings] [phone buzzes] Hey. Oh, I thought you’d be swamped and I’d have to slide through your voicemail like the last couple of times. And like you were when I texted back? Fair point. Um, so you’re not being distant? I don’t mean to be, Kat. Well, then pull up to Orphey Gene’s and we can talk it through face-to-face. Yeah, I could be there in a few. Okay.

[Vanessa speaks indistinctly]

I’m sorry to interrupt. I think I left my badge. Oh, Doug, let me introduce you to Mr. Armstrong. Hello, Doug. Pleasure to meet you. I was just asking your lovely wife about finding a special place for my mother. Oh, is that right? Well, Vanessa’s schedule’s pretty tight. I’d be surprised if she could squeeze in another client. Well, then it’s a good thing she already made room.

Oh, she did?

She did. Of course I did. Mr. Armstrong’s mother deserves nothing but the best. Have fun. DOUG: I will. Good luck with the house hunt, Mr. Armstrong. Thank you, Dr. McBride. I’m a big believer in luck. Good morning, Gran. Or is it afternoon? There’s so much going on, I can’t keep track. I could hear those gears turning all the way in the library. So, what is weighing on that beautiful, brilliant mind of yours? I have a big decision to make. So, a case has landed in my lap that could change everything. Sounds intriguing. What is it? Okay, well, uh, protecting confidentiality, I will share what’s rumored. Three women from the law offices of Bill Hamilton want to file a sexual harassment suit against the firm. Well, lots of reasons not to take that on. Yeah, the press, first and foremost. You’re afraid that our family’s notoriety would overshadow the victims? Yeah, that’s a big piece of it. Especially since everything with Mom has finally settled down. And you certainly don’t want to put your mother and the rest of the family through all of that again. How can I, in good conscience? And then there’s the question of whether you can even beat Bill. Well, yeah, that’s a consideration. Well, now, don’t get me wrong, Naomi. Your reputation is growing in legal circles, but Bill’s firm has resources that are far beyond your access. You’d be like David going up against Goliath without even a slingshot. So you’re saying I shouldn’t take the case? I haven’t said a word about what you should or shouldn’t do. I’m just holding a mirror up to your own doubts. Now ask me if I think you can win. Do you think I could beat my dad? I think you are more than capable of handling this. You are smart and dedicated, and you have a fire for justice that would make Thurgood Marshall stand back. But, Gran, the fallout for our family. Ah, it’s just another day in the neighborhood. [chuckles] Naomi, listen. Those women chose you for a reason. They see in you what I do. Someone who will stand by them and stand up for them with everything she’s got. So the question isn’t whether you can win. It’s whether or not you’re ready to show the world what happens when a Dupree woman decides to move mountains. [sighs] I think a ranch-style house. Uh, wheelchair-accessible doorways. No high or low shelving. Looks like you’ve put some real thought into this. It’s great to see a son so devoted to his mother’s well-being. Oh, my mother is my whole life. I’d do anything for her. You look amazing. Glad you noticed. And you think I’m distant? Maybe that’s just what I learned to expect. So, now that I have your requirements, I’ll get back to you before end of day with some prospects. I look forward to our continued partnership. MAN: So… …you went from robbing the cradle to the grave. Pops. I didn’t expect you to show up so quick. Yeah, I had some time between meetings. Plus your text sounded urgent. What’s on your mind, son? What can you tell me about Detective Malone? Your new partner? How’s it working out for you? Man, if Marcel had his way, I’d be nothing but his errand boy, fetching coffee and doing grunt work. Not quite the learning experience you was hoping for. Hell nah. [laughs] Let me break it down for you, son. Marcel has been on this force longer than some of these rookies have been breathing. All right? He’s seen things that would make most men quit. So give him some leeway. I know his methods may not be what you’re used to, but they get results. And what result do you get by turning a blind eye to corruption? What’d you see? Joey Armstrong. He pocketed a fat stack of cash from some wannabe thug on the street in broad daylight.

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THIS STILL NEEDS EXTENSIVE EDITING!

[banging on door] Dani? Are you here? Dani? Hey. Hey, hey. Hey. Hey, it’s me. Hey, get up. [moans] Oh, lord… Hey, it’s okay. It’s okay. He’s so good at capturing people’s perfect moments. We’re so lucky to have him here. Right? Oh, man. This is a good close-up of you. It shows your warmth, your strength, your elegance. We should blow it up, frame it. You are so sweet. Mm, mm, mm. Your smothered pork chops are still my fave. It wasn’t Orphe Gene’s good, but… They were your good. Besides, we don’t need to spend money going out. Wasn’t thinking about money. I was thinking about risk. Risk? You’ve met all the Duprees now. If we were seen out together, it could get back to Ted that you are his daughter. That particular revelation ought to wait. So you’re not letting the Ted thing go? Of course not. He wants to act like you and I didn’t exist. But once I put the truth to his snobby social circle, then– hmm– he won’t be able to pretend like we are invisible. You know what, Mama? I recorded that show you said you liked. Let’s watch it. I would have exposed him at the awards ceremony if he hadn’t gotten me thrown out.

You don’t know he did that.

Of course he did. And it was so like him to have that flunky party manager do his dirty work. [scoffs] [applause] I want to thank you for alerting me to the issues with that server. It’s been handled. Thank you. Maybe he just didn’t want you to ruin Nicole’s big night. But I guess he can’t hold you back forever. You got that right. Don’t act like you didn’t hear me. This is done. We are done. Okay, so the waitstaff embarrasses you at the country club, and you what? Hmm? You want to just give up on our days-old marriage? Don’t belittle me, Bill. You’re making my feelings sound ridiculous when I know they’re not. I didn’t intend to do that, baby, I just don’t get where all this is coming from, okay? If I can understand it, then maybe I can help fix it. I’m not just talking about today. I realize that. But isn’t the worst behind us? We endured divorce scandal. We even got held at gunpoint at our own wedding. It seems to me that the bad part is over. For you, maybe. When you go to the office, show up in court, or appear at the club, you’re respected. I was naive enough to think that the respect people gave you would be extended to me once we got married. But it isn’t, and probably never will be. Am I supposed to just put up with the mockery and disrespect for the rest of my life? I’m not sure that I can. [phone buzzes] Hey, babe. Uh, everything okay? Need something? I’ve got a special surprise for you, and I don’t want you to miss it. What kind of surprise? I borrowed your kitchen, and I’m making my firehouse’s blue ribbon lasagna. After all this time together, you never said there were lasagna contests or that your firehouse had a blue ribbon in baking them. But please, I don’t think you should overdo it, okay? Cooking isn’t nothing, you know? There’s a lot of bending and-and carrying and stuff. Derek, you just got released from the hospital. Well, maybe I’ll collapse from exhaustion and you’ll have to give me mouth-to-mouth, hmm? [both chuckle] You are so crazy. Okay, I promise I’ll be there on time. [laughs] [sighs] This video is incredible. It’s amazing. You’re amazing. Andre, were you about to kiss me? [sighs] Here, take this ibuprofen, and you’re gonna want to drink the whole glass, all right? Mm-hmm. I see a mammoth hangover in your future. I don’t usually drink that much. What? Dani, I’ve seen you knock back a few. Not to the point of passing out. I guess I forgot to keep track of how much I was drinking. Ha-ha. Dani, I’m not playing. You could have been seriously hurt. You could’ve hit your head. You could’ve choked. A million things.

If you hadn’t called me by–

But I did. And now we’ve established even Dani Depree has her limits. Lesson learned. I hope so. So, want another blanket? Arms are better. Mm. [chuckles] All right. Come here. Do me a favor? Depends. Can you not tell anyone you found me like this? My family would probably get all bent out of shape and call an intervention or something. Yeah, you got it. Besides, I don’t feel like explaining why I was here anyway.

Thank you.

Mm-hmm. I’ll be better behaved in the future. Ease up, now. There’s no need in going all out. Now, you could slow your roll on the booze, but, uh, keep the misbehaving coming, hmm? What would I do without you, my once-in-a-while man? All right, I’m gonna let you get some sleep. Andre. Yeah? Don’t go yet. Please. Yeah. You’re the tough-as-nails woman that not only stands up to me, but you went straight to Dany’s lair and you read her the Riot Act. Now where’s that woman, hmm? My fire-breathing dragon of a wife? [sighs] She’s right here. You’re exhausted. Disappointed. Look, maybe you shouldn’t have given me a glimpse of what life with just the two of us alone and happy could be. We got to shut out the world on our honeymoon with just you and me alone. I could get lost in that. I liked that. Then let’s keep doing that. How? When, the minute we got back, the Duprees and their minions were at it again. Taunting me, trying to get an edge. It’s like their team sport. “Who can break Hayley?” Yeah, and the crazy thing is, they absolutely love it. Well, just… I don’t know, ignore them, okay? Just ignore Dani. You say that like it’s doable. She infiltrated our home. She managed to get every server in the club to humiliate me before she was even in the room. And no matter how many times she pulls one of her stunts, you promise it’s the last. Okay, if you would just let me retaliate– You have. You know, I’m beginning to think that you enjoy this just as much as she enjoys torturing me. I’m the only one not having fun at this tennis match. Okay, okay, okay. If she’s so impossible to ignore and you won’t let me act against her, then what can I do? Give me the life you promised me from the beginning. The idyllic picture you painted when you proposed. Was that some sales pitch to hook me? Of course not, baby. Because if it is, Bill, I have some decisions to make. [scoffs] [sighs] So, what do you say? Want to watch the show? We don’t have time for that. What we need to do is figure out how to use the fact that you’re working in Nicole and Ted’s house. Did I tell you I had another run-in with her daughter Kat? [scoffs] You’ll love this. So I was at the club, running an errand for Nicole, and Kat was having breakfast with this guy she’s been seeing. His name is Tomas. And on the way out, I spoke to him, sort of flirty-like. And Kat got really upset. I can’t believe how easy she gets triggered. Tell me more about this guy. Well, I don’t know much about him, but he’s really cute, though. Confident. Seems smart. Ooh, and he’s a lawyer.

I see.

Mm-hmm. Well, he sounds like a creeper to me, little girl. Keep your distance. Stay clear. What’s crazy is that I was on this amazing creative roll. I-I’d had this brilliant idea– thank you– about styling this vintage dress that Chelsea’s going to be modeling. How I– how I could contrast it with Afrofuturist hair and makeup. That’s fire. You know, you really have an artist’s eye, Dani. So you see why I was in the mood to celebrate. Nice try, but, uh… “Still Life with Dani and Vodka Bottle” was not a celebration. Clearly, I should have waited for you to get here. We might’ve had a better time. Yeah… What is this? Maybe the second time things haven’t gone as planned for us? [chuckles] “Second.” Uh, let’s try every time, all the time. Is that good or bad? It is what it is. Hmm? Well, listen, this is what I need your best event to be, Dani: Taking care of yourself, and I mean that. Okay, Coach. You need rest, all right? Real rest. And not the kind that you get at the bottom of a vodka bottle. So you’re gonna lie down, close your eyes and, uh, I’m gonna put on some smooth tunes. And then you’ll slip away under the cover of night? [chuckles] Yeah, I’m gonna be sitting right here, using my artist’s eye to imagine you naked. Knock yourself out. All right. Come on, I got you. [sighs] [sighs] Why would you say Tomas is a creeper? Whatever that is. You’ve never even seen him. And why do I have to stay away from him? Don’t be rude to the guy. Just don’t let it go any further. Further than “hello”? Because that’s as far as we got. You flirted enough to tweak Kat. Oh, now you care about her feelings? [laughs] Ugh. I don’t. But… we don’t want her to be annoyed, okay? She’s an entitled little princess that can possibly get you fired. So… I hate having to tiptoe around her. I know, but we need you inside the house, honey. Come on. Let sleeping Kats lie. [laughs] What we need is an event. Oh, my gosh, Mama, I just organized one. Oh, I know, honey, and you were so good at it. But this one has to be about Ted, okay? Since you thought that, uh, Nicole’s was the wrong occasion, this event has to be something that when the truth comes out, Ted will spit nails. He will throw a fit.

He will–

Okay, okay, I get it. But there’s nothing like that on the calendar. Mm. Oh. [chuckles] I know what we can do. We? You mean me, don’t you? Okay, yes, you, little girl, you. You’re gonna do it, and you’re gonna do it great.

My favorite picture.

[laughing]

Hey, there, nephew.

What’s good, Uncle Ted? We’re just going through the pictures you took at the awards ceremony. They are phenomenal.

Ah, thank you.

[pager beeping] Eh, they always pull on their stitches. Let me go check on this patient. Andre, thanks once again. If you came to follow up on our conversation from yesterday, I get no one likes unsolicited advice. It’s no worries, Aunt Nicole. Promise. Plus, I’ve been known to give my own unsolicited advice from time to time. I hope you know I didn’t mean to offend. No worries. Really. And you know I love you, don’t you? Of course I do. What, are you worried about what I told you about Ashley? [sighs] Let’s just put it this way… I have no doubt that you will make a lucky woman

a wonderful partner…

Mm-hmm. …when you are ready to settle down. In fact, I will happily dance at your wedding. Mm. Okay.

If I live that long.

[laughs] Hey, I’ll hold you to that. And in the meantime, you don’t have to worry about me and Ashley. She has zero romantic interest in me. Derek, it smells absolutely amazing in here. I’m glad you approve.

Lasagna’s almost done.

And the table. Oh, it’s so cute. I’ll get the wine glasses. I was right. You overdid it, didn’t you? It’s nothing, really. I’m just.. Maybe you wouldn’t mind just… Ooh. It’s really knotted up right here. You know what? You better sit down so I can get a better angle. All right. That feels amazing. Other side.

How’s this feel?

Like heaven. You know, I-I’ve been having a lot of tension in my jaw, too.

Your jaw?

Mm-hmm. I’ve never given a jaw massage before. I may have to come around front for that. Well, there’s plenty of room. You can sit right here. Like this? Mm. Exactly like that. I think you’re okay now. I think I’d be better if we did this. What about this incredible-smelling dinner I rushed home for?

What about it?

[laughs]

[phone buzzes]

That’s work. Uh– I thought you were on medical leave. I am, but this is an all-hands-on-deck situation. Five-alarm blaze downtown. That relic of a hotel. No, Derek, you were just hurt. That’s what firefighters do, baby. I’ll be back as soon as I can, okay? Ted and Nicole’s wedding anniversary’s coming up. How in the world do you know that? [chuckles] Some things are just seared into your brain. Back then, Ted and I were a thing, and he canceled on me. Later on, I found out that he went to dinner with Nicole to celebrate their anniversary. What a better reason to have a party? Mmm. [chuckles] I’m actually glad Ted stopped me from interrupting Nicole’s award ceremony. This is a much better fit for what I’m going to do. Which is…? Which is… when the two of them are gushing about their perfect, legendary love affair, then boom, I’ll blow it up. Hate to burst your bubble, Mama, but Ted and Nicole don’t have a party planned. All Nicole said was that their anniversary was coming up and to keep her schedule free in case they want to go to dinner or something. Mm. Aww. Well, see, honey, that is where you’ll come in, okay? So all you need to do is just suggest that they have a big bash. That would be weird.

Why?

Because I’m only an assistant. It’d be way off for me to be all in their personal events. Hmm. You never had a problem being persuasive before. That’s not what it’s feeling like.

What’s that supposed to mean?

Nothing. Forget it. If Ted and Nicole don’t take the bait, then you have to go to Martin and Kat and suggest to them that they throw a surprise party for their parents. I’d rather run through fire barefoot than to talk to Kat. Besides, she’ll never listen to me. Why are you shooting down all my ideas? I have good ideas. They’re really good ideas, Eva. I know you do, Mama, but I’m not sure I’m ready for all this. Nicole’s smart. She’ll know if I’m trying to manipulate her, and then she might resist even harder. Look, I just don’t want to disappoint you. I’ve never known you to be a coward. I’m just trying to be smart about all this. Well… if I am not worried about you taking on the task, then you shouldn’t be worried about you. Oh, come on, honey. I know you can pull it off. I know it. Ashley has no interest in you. That must feel… different. Yeah, she completely shut me down. And straight up, she had every right. I think we’re better as friends. That is very mature of you, Andre. Yeah, I do have my adult moments. [Nicole laughs] [sighs] And because I do, I really hope you might hear me out about this next subject. What’s that?

It’s your sister.

What did she do now? No, I don’t mean it– I don’t mean it like that. Listen, I happened to run into her tonight, and she seemed down. Really? I just saw her at breakfast. She was fine. And she was wonderful at the ceremony. Best emcee ever. She should be riding high from that. You’d think. Look, I don’t want it to get back to her, what I’m about to say. But I know from experience… …that when a crisis has passed, and… …the worst is supposedly over, when everyone thinks that you’re okay and you’ve moved on, that is when it can be the loneliest. Dani? Lonely? That never really occurred to me. You surprise me sometimes, Andre. With all of your mystique and charm, you can be a very insightful young man. Look, I don’t know about all that, but what I do know is that you are a good sister. And it seems that Dani could really use your support right now. [sighs] [chuckles] Is somebody here? I thought I heard the doorbell. What is all this? Well, the doorbell ringing is our dinner being delivered. This is my way of letting you know that our honeymoon is by no means over. This is just my small, humble way of saying thank you.

For what, exactly?

For being honest with me. You were sincere and forthright. You opened my eyes to see how much you’ve been struggling in these early days of our marriage. Okay. That’s a pretty good start.

Mm.

Go on. Well, you feel let down. I promised you the moon and I barely launched the rocket. And nothing went the way that we planned. Not our wedding, our short-circuited honeymoon. And if it weren’t for my work, we’d still be in Italy right now. So, tonight, my love, we are in Ischia. An island so beautiful and remote, no one can find us. Mm. [romantic music playing] Oh, Bill. This is one of the songs from the outdoor performance you took me to.

Yeah. So you recognize it?

Oh, my God. Babe, you have an amazing ear. Among other wonderful qualities. That concert was unforgettable. Babe, this is so beautiful, so thoughtful. You must have gone through an extraordinary amount of trouble. See, that’s where you’re wrong, Hayley. Because this was no trouble for me. You know why? Because spending time with you is the best and most exciting part of my life. Okay? And I want you to know that. I’ll admit that, lately, it…

hasn’t felt like that.

I know, I know, I know. And I’m sorry. I just get caught up with work, other distractions. But I want to make it abundantly clear that… …you’re where my heart is, baby. You really are. And if that hasn’t been evident until now, it will be tonight and from now on, okay?

Um… okay.

Okay? Why don’t you come over here, have a seat?

Okay. Okay.

Mm-hmm. Because tonight I am going to prepare for you the best linguine tutto mare this side of the Big Boot.

Oh… Mm.

[chuckles] [affectionate grunting]

Thanks, Mom.

Mm-hmm. I could really use the company.

[door closes]

So Derek’s out on a call? Yeah, he officially has recovered from his concussion. But I still don’t think it’s fair that they’re making him go back into work so soon. I think you got used to doting on him when he was in the hospital. That, but I’m mostly bummed because tonight was supposed to be him doting on me. Is that why there’s enough lasagna for an entire firehouse? Well, you know Derek. Big gestures. [laughs] Ah. What’s, uh, what’s this? Uh, it’s a gift from Andre to commemorate

my first week on the job.

Mm. Well, I’m guessing this good-looking guy must be the Andre? Man of the elevator. Partner in the famed baby delivery. Yeah, that very Andre. So where’s he been? I’ve met most of your friends, but not him. Well, he’s Dr. Richardson’s nephew. Oh, right. And he’s not around a lot because of work. Though, after we delivered that baby together, something changed. I think we moved into the friend zone now…? Well, it’s a really thoughtful gift. It was. Would you like to have it? [chuckles] Why would you want to give it away? It’s such a personal present. I don’t know. I feel kind of funny about it. Because of Derek?

Yeah.

Well, Derek wouldn’t be threatened by a photo, would he? I mean, there’s nothing romantic between you and this young man, is there? Is there? Not until the other night.

What happened?

Andre… …almost kissed me. I really love having Andre around again. It has been a pleasure getting to see so much of him. But I do have to admit, I also really love the photos of his vacations from around the world. I think I live a little vicariously through him. We can take our own. We have an anniversary coming up. So, where’d you like to go? I’ve always wanted to see St. Barts.

Mm.

You? What do you want to see? Bahia? Ghana? Cape Town? It’s a secret. I can’t tell you. It’s always been a dream. Ted, there’s nothing you can say to me that will turn me off. Well, I thought it would always be cool to visit every Major League Baseball field, in one trip. For our anniversary? You think that’s a romantic vacation? You made me tell you. Ted, I love you to death. But if you think you are going to drag me from city to city to sit on hard wooden bleachers, drink beer and eat hot dogs, forget it. When was the last time you’ve been to a baseball game? Now every stadium has been renovated. They have gourmet food, and they have padded seats. You’re not kidding about this, are you? You’re serious. You want to do this. [laughs] The look on your face. [laughter]

Nicole: You are terrible. Just terrible. Eva. What are you doing here so late? I-I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to intrude. [groans] I don’t see the danger of being friends. And as for that moment–

Where he almost crossed the line.

But he didn’t. And that’s what’s important. Did you tell Derek what happened? No. I don’t want things to be any more awkward than they already are. Andre feels bad. I mean, he apologized. I’m just really scared things are going to be weird between us now. Well, it sounds like a misunderstanding. As long as you think he’ll be more respectful going forward, then things will probably get back to normal. I really hope you’re right. I like Andre. He’s… interesting and he’s fun, and… …the truth… is that if we weren’t in each other’s orbit, I’d… miss him. [chuckles] I got Kat’s dress cleaned and wanted to get it back into her closet ASAP. Um, I ran into Andre on his way out. Otherwise, I’d have rung the bell. Oh, that’s fine. Ted here, the love of my life,

most of the time… [laughs]

Hey. …was spinning a grand plan to whisk me away for our anniversary for two weeks of Major League Baseball and all of the chili dogs that I can stand. I spare no expense on my beloved. We’re kidding.

Oh.

[laughter] Honestly, this time of the year is really busy for me. I wouldn’t be able to get away. What about if I switch to a WNBA game? Now, that’s a little more promising. But still no. We’ll have to plan our trip for a little later on in the year. You may not have time for a trip, but you can still celebrate your anniversary. Not many people stay married as long as you guys.

You’re right about that.

EVA: Mm-hmm. It’s not easy being married to me. Hey, you said it, not me. [laughter] Maybe I can make dinner reservations for you or help set up a little party.

Now, that sounds great.

Careful, Eva. Ted’s idea of a little party may be very different than yours. I would hate for you to take on more than you can handle. Nonsense. She did a great job with your award celebration. Hey, if the two of you want to put your heads together, far be it from me to stop you.

I’d love to help.

TED: Thank you, Eva. We appreciate you. I’ll put Kat’s dress upstairs where I got it. Mm. That was… How do they put it? A gastronomic delight. Mwah. Well, I hope you saved room for dessert because I ordered the most delicious tiramisu. Bill, uh, dinner was beautiful, and this was all very romantic, but it doesn’t mean we’ve talked about our real issues. We don’t need to, because we don’t have any underlying problems. But we do. Okay, look, I heard everything you said earlier, babe. I really did. Our neighbors are unsupportive. The Duprees are a collective pain in the ass. But like you said before, when we’re alone together and we get lost in one another, none of that outside mess matters. Okay, and what’s your solution? Schedule more alone time. A lot more. And that’ll be easy, because there’s no place I’d rather be than alone with you. Oh. You’re a sweet talker, Bill Hamilton. I’ll give you that. Well, maybe, but I put my money where my mouth is.

You did not.

I did, too. But how? [chuckles] At the concert. Remember when I went to get us gelato? You said the line was really long, Bill. I know. Just a white lie. [gasps] Oh, wow. These are stunning. And the ones I was admiring.

You do listen to me.

Of course I do. I just feel really awful. [groans] No one’s ever treated me the way you do, and I don’t want to seem ungrateful.

Thank you.

[chuckles] Do you see, that smile right there? That’s all the thanks I need. Well, I think I can do a little better than a smile.

Hmm.

Uh-huh. Hmm.

Yes.

[chuckles]

[kissing]

Mmm. Mmm, mmm, mmm. Well, I will tell the chef that the lasagna was a hit and to keep it on the menu. And please, please take leftovers. You could feed the entire block. Hey, Ash, where do you keep the scouring pads? [sighs] [sighs]

You were right, Bill.

About what, baby? I am strong enough to fight for us. And you are so worth the fight. I can’t let myself forget that. Well, you never have to fight alone, you know. Not anymore. That part of your life ended the day we fell in love, Mrs. Hamilton. You stand tall, okay? And I’ll be right beside you every step of the way. Look at this one of Mother and Daddy. How they look at each other after all of these years. All that love and affection in their eyes. That’s relationship goals right there. All we have to do is just follow in their footsteps. Now, that is a beautiful notion, my love. Oh. So… what happened? Did you do what I said? Did you plant the idea of the party with Ted and Nicole?

Yeah.

And? They want to do it. [squeals] Perfect. [laughs] Oh, my goodness. Okay, so you do all the planning, and I will bring the fireworks. [laughs]

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Beyond The Gates Transcript

 

Transcript provided by Suzanne and Thane

THIS STILL NEEDS EXTENSIVE EDITING!

Nicole: Is Dani making it this morning? She and Chelsea had some pressing business, but they’ll be here later. I haven’t heard from Martin. And Naomi’s not gonna make it at all. She has a meeting with clients. Oh, things at the practice must be going well. Mm-hmm. Oh, you said you had photos from the event? Oh, yes. Andre brought them over to me last night. Aw. I’m so sorry I missed it. Oh, wow. Heh. These are wonderful. Talented, right? Wait, I have a question. Why is Eva wearing my dress? Hello? I understand. I’ll contact her and take care of everything. Thanks. Why are we doing this now when we’re supposed to be at breakfast? Wait until you hear this latest development, baby. It is incredible. Well, if it had been done by anybody else, it would be incredible, but by me, trademark. Tell me. Remember how I met the curator in charge of the first lady’s gowns at the Smithsonian? She gave us that private tour. We’re getting a dress. The dress. The showstopper for the fashion show?

Mm-hmm.

But that’s not possible. The museum, they never loan out gowns. They’re famous for saying no. You’re welcome. Mom. You know I would move Heaven and Earth for my girl. And Ebonymagazine, which is the other part of the wonders I have worked, because they have agreed to cover the event in their next issue. This is… so exciting. What is happening now is everything, Chelsea. After the betrayal, the divorce, the humiliation at Bill’s wedding. It feels good. I finally feel like me. You never stopped being a rock star to me. What would I do without you, Chelsea? [sighs] Man… stakeouts look way more fun in movies. What, you thought there’d be shoot-outs and solving murders every day? I mean, yeah, it’s Robbery-Homicide. I thought there would be some kind of action, you know? Rule number two: Don’t ask for trouble. Yeah, what’s rule number one? Make it home alive. And all I got to do is make it home to my retirement date, and it’s me and Sheila forever, the love of my life. How long you two been married? Sheila’smy boat. Oh, nice. That’s my wife. Beautiful. She don’t like being on the boat, fishing, on the water. Just a real city girl. Well, you know, they do say opposites attract. Well, your wife must be a real wild child, ’cause you… I’m what? Pain-in-the-neck Boy Scout. Meaning? Meaning you want to run out there and change the world and tell the teacher she forgot to give you homework. That guy. Yeah, whatever, man. Ms. Hawthorne?

Stefania.

Hi. I’m Naomi. This is Carrie and Becky.

Nice to meet you.

Hi. Please, sit. Thanks for making time to meet with us.

Of course.

And keeping it informal. We would have come to your office, but if someone saw us there… I mean, someone could see us here, but… We’re just new friends getting coffee. And this is 100% confidential? Even if it doesn’t go past a consultation. So, tell me, why do you need a lawyer? We need you because we’re having an issue with your father.

Bill: After cutting my honeymoon short, I was not about to add insult to injury by putting a full day in at the office. You got the right idea, partner. Take it easy and let everybody else do the heavy lifting while you schedule meetings from home and stroll into work whenever your heart desires. That’s what true love will do to you. I tell you, the day I find a hot young woman like you did… [scoffs] …oh, I resign. At least we know what he’s doing between teleconference calls, huh? [laughs] You have a beautiful home, Bill. Feels like a castle with all the security. Mmm. Does that have anything to do with your ex living in the same neighborhood? Let’s just agree that the Dupree women can be a lot. Isn’t that right, Tomas? Your date with Kat. How’d that go? Your latest project snuck into my closet and stole my dress? Eva didn’t have anything to wear for the ceremony, so I told her to borrow something of yours. Without my permission. I didn’t think you’d care. Well, I do care. Very much. It’s mine. So much for a drama-free breakfast. [chuckling] My clothes don’t leave my closet without my permission, and I will do my part to keep things drama-free by removing myself. And going where? Over there. I’m going to meet a friend. Would this be the young man that you had over for a private dinner? We can’t wait to hear more. His name is Tomas, and he works for Bill. Oh. Well, I guess we won’t hold that against him. Don’t hit all the highlights before he gets here. Let him tell us himself. Oh, Granddad, I didn’t plan on, um… Did… do you have to go through pre-approval with Gran’s relatives? Of course he did. And if he hadn’t passed every test, y’all wouldn’t be here. [chuckles] But maybe she’s right. Let’s give the young people their space. Your granddad is joking about interrogating your date. Was I? No one is going to interrupt or do anything embarrassing. [Motown music playing] ANITA: Vernon? I swear, I had nothing to do with them

playing your song.

Our song. Oh, I love your love story. Y’all meeting at that march in D.C. Yeah, the head of the record label, Dante Green, sent the group there. Now, for him, I’m sure it was just about generating publicity. But for us, it was about the movement and being on the right side of things, which would have been enough. It never occurred to me that I would meet my soulmate. Ah. Anita walked with me. We marched side by side.

Mm-hmm.

We talked. She was beautiful and funny. Mm. She had a kind of sparkle in her eyes, like she knew mysterious things. [chuckles] I was fascinated. I couldn’t let this just be meet and greet, on and gone, so I finagled an invitation to see The Articulettes at the Regal Theater in Chicago. ANITA: We were still on the theater circuit then. It was really right before we blew up. Yeah. Yeah, but perfect timing, ’cause I wouldn’t have had a chance once they hit the big time. Not true. You had my heart from the moment you said, “Hello.” [Vernon chuckles] And you had mine. Still do. Always will. Kat’s an interesting young woman. I’m enjoying getting to know her. Don’t be shy, kid. Tell the class how well you performed last night. Whoa. Off-limits, Mike. You and Dani aren’t together anymore. What difference does it make to you if Tomas gives us the down and dirty, huh?

Bill: Okay, I’ve known Kat since she was born, okay? And, yes, I divorced her aunt, and the Duprees treat me like poison, but Kat is a good girl, okay? She’s very special. Yeah, and I gave you my blessing to date her, so don’t make me regret it. Bill, I see we have a full house.

Here to get some work done?

Hey.

Good to see you, Hayley.

Mrs. Hamilton. Good to see you both. And, Tomas, you can still call me Hayley. No formality necessary. And I will be keeping my paralegal job at the firm. Interesting. Help yourselves to more coffee. Babe, I’m sorry we couldn’t have breakfast in bed, okay? Oh, well, we can play honeymoon when you’re done with your work.

Mm.

Okay? All right, have a good day, gentlemen. Damn, that woman’s hot. Hey, watch yourself, Mike. All right. So, the unfavorable conditions at my father’s firm are less about him than Mike Davis? BECKY: Pretty much. Mike’s all grabby hands and dirty jokes. Did you ever address this with Mike directly? Not at first. Because he’s a partner? More because it started so innocuously. Yeah, you brush it off. You think, “Oh, that was a mistake. He didn’t mean anything by it.”

NAOMI: Mm-hmm.

Then Mike got bolder. He started making inappropriate comments about my wardrobe, and then about my body. I asked him to stop. Me too. And he’d tell me to “lighten up.” [scoffs] He would make disgusting assumptions about what I did after work. Ugh. God forbid if I got stuck working with him alone or in close quarters. And he always found a reason to brush up against me. And he did this with all of you? That and more. I was up for a promotion from receptionist to paralegal. Mike swore if I went on a date with him, that he would put in a good word for me. Did you go out with him? I told him I had a boyfriend when I didn’t, thinking that would shut it down. [scoffs] Next thing I knew, I got the worst performance review of my career, they cut my hours, and the paralegal promotion went to Hayley. [scoffs] How did the three of you find out about each other? Where all good friendships begin.

Crying in the ladies room?

[women chuckling] That’s when things went from bad to worse. Had a partner once. New, like you. We rolled up on a robbery in progress. But he didn’t want to wait for the go-ahead from the tactical team. So, what happened? Bad guys started shooting. I drug him to safety, but I got chewed out by the chief. For saving your partner’s life? And for letting him put us and the operation in jeopardy. Bottom line, I’ll give up on your sorry ass in a heartbeat if it means saving my own. Hey. We got somebody. That’s not who I think it is. Joey Armstrong. What’s a connected guy like him doing in a place like this? If I’d known getting a loaner dress would make you this happy– This isn’t some loaner. Baby, this is a part of history. And we would be making history of our own. I’m thinking if we go futuristic with the makeup and accessories, then we get the rediscovery of retro with the excitement about what’s next. Well, you’ll be wearing it. What do you think? I wish I could find the words. What do you say we join forces and carpool to the club? I wish I could, but I have one more thing to handle before I go.

If you’re sure.

Mm-hmm. Tell everyone I’ll see them soon. Great work, Mom. Thank you. Wait. Wasn’t there something you wanted to talk to me about? Oh, I can’t remember. Your news blew it right out of my mind. I’ll see you at the club. Hmm. JACOB: Okay, now this stakeout just got a lot more exciting. But what’s Armstrong doing? This makes no sense. MARCEL: His stolen auto parts operation we’re working– it’s too low level for Armstrong. Right. And why would he pick up a payment himself when he can easily send a corner boy and keep his hands clean? MARCEL: Well, he’s up to something. Yeah, and it’s time to find out what. Oh, do I need to pop the childproof locks? Sit back, watch. Learn. [sighs] Oh, she was so beautiful on that stage. Oh, the whole theater in the palm of her hand. Your grandmother was electric. Still am. KAT: Oh, Granddad, every time you tell that story, I’m, like, mesmerized.

Nicole: You know who Granddad is? How do you guys call it? The GOAT? The GOAT of telling stories. KAT: Yes, Mom. VERNON: Listen, I love telling how we fell in love.

ANITA: And it’s all true.

VERNON: Yeah.

Nicole: So beautiful. KAT: Oh, I hate to miss the rest of your story, Granddad, but… Oh, that’s all right. Go on, have fun with your friend. We shouldn’t all look at the same time. Glad you could make it. My meeting didn’t last too long. Your family’s watching. [sighs] They’re dying to meet you, but I told them no. I don’t want us to rush things. I want us to get to know each other better before you take that wild ride into Dupree land. I concur. But when the time is right, I’ll be up to the challenge. Mm, cocky, huh? Just happy to have you to myself. After you shared your experiences, how did things escalate? We went to human resources. They told us our claims will be investigated, but within a month, we were all fired. All three of you? We each got downgraded for subpar performance during our reviews. I’ve had straight A’s since grade school and graduated top of my class in law school. Nothing I do is subpar. Did any of you discuss Mike Davis’ behavior with my father? I’m sure if you told him what happened, he’d rehire you. Do you really think Bill Hamilton will side with us over the best man at his wedding? He knows the kind of man Mike Davis is, yet he looks the other way. BECKY: To be fair, we don’t know what Bill knows or doesn’t. Look, I’m really sorry that this happened, but if you want me to speak to my father on your behalf, that’s just tricky right now. We want you to sue your father’s firm. Excuse me. Just the cousin I wanted to see. Chelsea, this is Tomas. Oh, do you mind if I steal Kat for a few minutes?

Family first.

Oh, cute. He knows our motto. Excuse us. You still haven’t told Aunt Dani? She’s happy. There’s no way I’m raining on that parade. The longer you wait to tell her you want to quit modeling, the harder it will be for both of you.

She’ll hate me.

She wants you happy and successful, which is what all moms want. You got the rational, non-codependent Dupree daughter. I got the other one, and I just can’t break her heart, okay? Not today. Okay. Well, go fake your way through breakfast and pretend everything’s okay. You want me to sue my father’s firm? We watched your family’s interview after the wedding video. You chose to be with your mom instead of Bill and Hayley. Speaks volumes. As does your track record. That’s right. Let’s get real for one second. You didn’t seek me out because I’m an excellent attorney. You want me because I’m Bill Hamilton’s daughter. So, we just gonna sit here and watch this go down? You want to charge Joey Armstrong with public conversation? He was just handed a stack of money. What if that’s payment for a drug deal? You see any drugs? Okay, so we wait for Joey to do something that’ll send him away to prison for a long time, and then we nab him? That’s one way. Is there another way? Don’t make waves. Right now the water’s real smooth. Better off for both of us if it stays that way. It was as if the heavens opened up and I heard the voice of an angel. Mm. Then I saw this seat

near the stage…

Excuse me. …but my ticket was standing room only.

Nicole: Oh, it was meant to be.

VERNON: Yeah.

[laughter] VERNON: I wasn’t letting that seat go free. Oh, no. Hayley. Why so hangry? Didn’t you just have breakfast? [groans] He surely did. DANI: Hi, all. Good morning. We just got to the part of the story where Daddy was sneaking down the aisle at the Regal.

Mm.

I didn’t want to disturb anyone, especially that angelic singer. And there he was, front row center, smiling like it was Christmas morning. [chuckling] If I didn’t know I was a goner when we met in D.C., I sure as hell knew it that night in Chicago. And I’ve been happily gone ever since. You got to love love. DANI: With everything I’ve been through, you two are the reason that I still believe in happily ever after. And I’m sorry I’m late. Apparently, you take after me,

so all is forgiven.

[laughter] Whatever’s responsible for your delay, I’m sure it was good news. I am refining the details regarding the fashion show for the First-Gen grant. It’s the biggest fundraiser they’ve ever had, and there’s so many moving parts to attend to. But with Chelsea’s involvement… Oh, we don’t have to talk about this now. DANI: I’m proud of you. You are going to establish hundreds of scholarships for first generation college students, for making their dreams come true. No pressure there, right? Is everything all right, Chelsea? I’m sure she’s just excited, and maybe a little bit nervous about all the doors that are about to open. Not to mention the press that’s going to come after the media finds out just what she’s wearing. Chelsea told us about the gown. What a coup. While I am proud of you, I am not surprised. I have always said, with that brilliant mind of yours, you could sell sand in a desert. [chuckling] Good work, Dani girl. Do you know, when your mom was modeling, your granddad nicknamed her Napoleon behind her back? No, he didn’t. Said you were gonna take Europe by storm.

Was I wrong?

Never, Daddy. Well, you could have been a statesman if you wanted, gone into politics. She gets that from me, too. [laughs] ANITA: It is so good to see you smiling again. I mean, really smiling. It’s been too long. Way too long. I finally feel like I have my spark. EVA: Hey, everyone. I’m so sorry to interrupt. Eva, is everything all right? The hospital moved up the deadline for you to e-sign for those insurance claim forms to this morning.

Why didn’t you call me?

I brought your tablet so you can look them over and execute them here. So you don’t have to miss breakfast. Thank you. Well, that’s very considerate. This will make everything a lot easier to confirm and process. Oh, Duprees, you remember my assistant, Eva? ANITA: Of course, she was at our table at the event. Nicole has been saying wonderful things about you. You should take that as high praise. I do. Thanks. You’re welcome to join us if you’ve got a few minutes. Kat, Is everything all right? Oh, I’m sorry, Tomas. I wanted to spend more time with you, but there’s something going on at my family’s table. Of course. Who’s that with them? Eva. My mom’s temporary personal assistant. She let you into the house last night. I was so excited about spending time with you, I didn’t even pay attention. [Kat chuckles] This is very sweet. It’s so nice to see you. I had such a good time with you last night. I wanted to make sure it wasn’t the wine. Oh, what’s the verdict? I’d like to see you again. When I tell a date what I told you last night… That you’re… not as experienced as a lot of people your age? It rarely leads to a second date. That’s their loss. What if I kissed your cheek? Familiar with the Spanish Inquisition? I’ll see you soon. And I was saying how wonderful the entire awards ceremony was. You’re in my seat. We have another chair. It’s okay, Granddaddy. Eva doesn’t have time to sit around the club all day with ever so important duties calling. Kat. She’s right. I have a ton of errands. I’ll see you at the office, Nicole. Bye. Ladies, I have a list of very competent attorneys who can help steer you through this process. I’ll bet we know all the names on that list. We’ve spoken to all of them and more. They refused to help you? If Bill Hamilton hasn’t trounced them in court, they know his reputation. They fear him. You don’t. And, yes, you went to the best schools, got the highest marks, know the law, and you’re tough. What gives you the edge is you’ve watched Bill Hamilton in action since you were born. You’ve discussed cases over dinner. You’re used to arguing with him. You know everything about him, which means you know how to win against him.

There has to be someone else.

We don’t want them. We want you because of and despite your name. Maybe it’s time to really make a name for yourself. Can we discuss how you just chased Eva out of here? You pay her to work, not to make herself comfortable in our country club. So, how did it go with your young man? He isn’t mine. Yet.

Oh.

[chuckles] He had to work. You should have seen his face when he saw Daddy giving him the eye. You didn’t, Granddad. You promised. Young men need a healthy dose of fear and dread when pursuing a woman. Huh? Keeps them honest. With your father, one look from him and I knew I had to toe the line. He was protective. Well, you’re worth the protecting. All of you are. And by that I mean every woman. ANITA: They talk about girl dads. The original. Well, we are blessed to have both of you showing us what dedication and loyalty look like. And a strong work ethic. So I know you will understand and forgive when I say I have to skedaddle. I’m gonna head, too. Millions of calls to make. Before you go, I just want you all to know what a joy it was today spending a crisis-free time with all of you. [laughter] Everyone is in a good place. Things are finally coming around. You look like you come in handy in battle. It’s that obvious? I save my fight for the courtroom. An attorney. Guilty. Now I know a lawyer. If I get into trouble, you can get me off multiple times, if necessary. [chuckles] What? You are bold. I like that. “When she was good, she was very, very good. But when she was bad, she was better.” That’s me. A pleasure to meet you.

Mm-hmm.

I’ll see you around. What were you doing with Tomas? Whatever you think you saw– I saw you forcing yourself on people who are too polite to tell you no. If you’re still playing Bitter Betty about me being your mother’s assistant, too bad, she’s not firing me. Oh, and if this was about your brunch boy– You saw us and still made a move. So threatened, it’s tragic. We were only talking. You ought to see someone about that. [scoffs] Hey, baby. How was breakfast? A nightmare. I never ate. What happened? Oh, I waited, was patient, and what did I get? Humiliated. No one came to my table. Huh. They must really be short-staffed over at Orphey Gene’s these days. I went to the country club.

Wait, our club?

Yeah. I did everything but set fire to the table to get their attention. The waitstaff looked right through me. Well, was it busy? Yeah, busy making me look like trash. You know, second wife doesn’t make me second best. The room wasn’t half full. And I don’t even want to tell you the worst part. The Duprees? A whole nest of them swarming around, watching my humiliation. It was disgusting. Aw, damn it. Baby, I am so sorry. Look, Dani should be the one barred for life after shooting up the room on our wedding. Look, you tell me, please– how is she still queen bee and I’m invisible? Well, not to me, you’re not. Bill, I knew this would happen.

I told you.

All right. You’re right. I should have listened. [sighs] But now it’s up to me to fix this. How? Oh, you’re gonna get the respect you deserve. Even if I have to bring this town to its knees. It’s good to see that gorgeous face. Worried face. This must be about the potential clients you met this morning. Baby, I could use your advice, but confidentiality. Well, your husband, the detective, is pretty sure you met with three women who wanted to discuss a harassment suit against your dad’s firm. You can’t possibly know that.

Did someone hear?

Cops know lawyers, and there have been a few rumors rolling around about it. You didn’t think to tell me? When even mentioning Bill’s name upsets you? It was a rumor, Naomi. I shrugged it off. Surprised my dad hasn’t picked up on it yet. Well, he’s been distracted. Do you actually think you can sue him? You think you have that in you? It’s the chance of a lifetime, Jacob. I mean, I’m already coming up with arguments in my head. I want this so bad I can taste it. So, what’s stopping you? I don’t know. People… people might think I’m using my client’s trauma as some sort of revenge drama, you know? Make my father pay for his bad behavior. It could be seen as petty, unethical, even immoral. Is it? [clears throat] [sighs] [chuckles] Don’t even try to deny it, but I know just what you’re thinking. That being? As hard as it is to get this family together, and as crazy as they drive you when we do, you can’t wait till next time. Oh, you are good. And how good was it to see Dani doing so well, laughing and excited about the future? If the only problem is Kat being miffed that Nicole loaned her assistant her dress, we’re doing pretty good. Yeah. And maybe that young man of Kat’s can distract her and give her the challenge she needs. Oh, so he gets your approval? Eh. I didn’t perceive any obvious flaws from across the room. Perceive? Oh, Mr. Dupree. The way you talk. You still take my breath away like you did that night at the Regal. What do you say we go home and remind ourselves of… how blessed we are? Let’s go. [chuckles] They’ve done their research, babe. They know there’s no love lost between me and my father. After what he did to your family, it might even add fuel to your fire. No doubt. Then you just have to ask yourself, do you want peace or do you want to do the thing you were trained to do? Wow. Really cut to the bone. Let’s, um, let’s shift to you. How’s Marcel? Uh he’s not a fan.

Is that a vibe or just–

Oh, no. He straight-up shut me down. He called me a Boy Scout. I’m sorry, but isn’t that what all cops should strive to be– good character, helpful? Look, the guy’s a legend in Homicide, but all he could talk about was retiring on his boat. I saw a chance for us to make a move and he put on the brakes. Uh-oh. You got that look on your face. The one you get when something seems off. I just got to figure out his way of doing things. But for a guy who achieved legendary status, I don’t know, I just figured

things would be different.

Mm. Maybe he just didn’t want to dazzle you with all his brilliance on the first day. Yeah, maybe. I’ll figure him out. Eva, What are you doing back here? Your mom left her sunglasses. Why are you still here? Don’t you have a job? Nothing I do is any of your business. I shouldn’t have asked. Didn’t mean to pry. You never mean to do anything. Everything just accidentally works out the way you manipulate it to. [scoffs] The doe eyes again. I know all about that little Cinderella moment before my mother’s award ceremony. How you got her to loan you one of my dresses. Yeah, I saw the pictures. That wasn’t my idea. I literally– Save it for someone who doesn’t know what you are. I didn’t even plan on going to the ceremony. Nicole insisted. It would have been rude to turn her down. At least Cinderella had the good sense to choose appropriate footwear. Great advice. Next time, I’ll borrow a pair of your red bottoms to go with your dress. There won’t be a next time. And taking something that’s mine doesn’t make it yours. It makes you a thief. I don’t want anything that belongs to you. [scoffs] Please. Just my life and everything in it. Well, all of it is out of your league. Including Tomas. You would do that– bring this city to its knees for me? Mm-hmm. Today’s the last time anyone’s gonna treat my wife like she’s invisible. Mm. What do you want? Peace in Fairmont. I want friends on every street, everywhere I turn. Okay. I can make that happen. No, that would take a lifetime, because accepting me would mean that they’d go against the wishes of the almighty Duprees, and no one would dare. Oh, well, you did. Well, I couldn’t help it. I fell in love, and… if I’d known then what I know now… Would you have walked away? I was starry-eyed when we fell in love, dreaming of what life with you could be. You know, I wasn’t thinking about reality. We should have been honest with ourselves. Maybe this whole thing was a bad idea. This whole thing? Meaning? This marriage, this house and this place, surrounded by people who want me to disappear. And they will stop at nothing until they destroy us. I can’t do this. You know, maybe we weren’t meant to be together. Maybe we should call this thing off. [chuckles] [crying] [moans]

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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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