Our Kind of People (2021) s01e06 Episode Script
For Colored Boys...
1
Previously on "Our Kind of People"
I think Teddy supplied crack
to Edgartown
and let my mother take the fall for it.
Teddy keeps journals in his home office.
Angela, he can't know that we're together.
I just want this cotillion to be perfect.
NIKKI: I'm being introduced into society.
I just have to find a father figure to dance with.
NATE: Nikki needs a father.
After 17 years.
LAUREN: Starting over is a big deal, especially for someone who has a criminal record.
- Why, Lauren? - I watched you kiss my girlfriend.
I don't want to be around you anymore.
You're out of cotillion.
I'm gonna destroy Teddy Franklin.
What's the plan? - RAYMOND: Alex Rivera.
- I would think twice before bringing her back into our lives.
TEDDY: The strength of the tremors have picked up.
LEAH: How long are you going to keep it a secret? TYRIQUE: We better get back.
We don't want them wondering where we are.
Dr.
Keller, it was no more than a dizzy spell.
DR.
KELLER: Which could have been much worse.
If you keep ignoring my medical advice, I'll have to discontinue Do that, and my endowment to your institute in Geneva will discontinue.
Understood? Good morning.
[SIGHS.]
Good morning.
Please, sit down.
I, uh I called you here this morning because when I excused myself from dinner the other evening I saw you and Angela slip out of my office.
Is that why the cameras have gone dark at Eve's Crown? Are you involved with her? I'm sorry, Teddy.
I-I couldn't keep spying on her.
Mm-hmm.
This is a knot of my own design.
My demands on those closest to me can take a toll, like He was doing his job.
Your father was a bodyguard, not a bill collector.
I sent him to Edgartown to collect rent because I knew he would treat people with dignity, and he lost his life.
I know the story.
Someone high out of their mind shot him on the front step for serving an eviction notice.
I sent you to spy on Angela because I trusted you.
Trust means a great deal to me, especially if you're seeing my daughter.
[LAUGHS.]
You know, if she has trust in you, one day, she will come and place her trust in me.
[SCOFFS.]
Spying on Angela isn't a way to gain her trust or get to know her.
You've been absent her whole life.
You're right, my boy.
I'm going to give Angela and Nikki a cotillion week to remember.
[CHUCKLES.]
Head high Confident Strong mind Resilient You can't break me, I was born to rise Our kind of people Ooh, ooh Our kind of people Ooh, ooh It's the same deal every time I go home.
They make up a whole list of Okay, ladies, we have less than 48 hours to cotillion, and this is gonna be the best cotillion yet.
"I have two Emmys and the highest-rated news show on the air," and my father sill made me clean the fish.
- [LAUGHTER.]
- Manicure be damned.
Alex.
What brings you to Oak Bluffs? [SIGHS.]
Well, I haven't taken a break since the Obama administration.
So I decided to summer here with friends, Graceties from the Manhattan chapter.
Well, you all are so lucky to have found a rental, you know, this late in the season.
And just in time for the Oak Bluffs Cotillion.
Come to think of it, last time I saw you was at your cotillion.
Well, that was ages ago.
Another lifetime.
For those of you who are unaware, Alex was married to Raymond for wait, did you guys make it to 12 months? [CHUCKLES.]
Thank you for the warm welcome.
I know my presence as a celebrity can be a little daunting.
You know what's even more daunting? Trying to find last-minute glam for the cotillion.
20% off for all Graceties and prospectives at Eve's Crown.
Where everybody gets treated like a celebrity.
Homegirl trying to start some mess.
Hmm.
Thanks, but I can clean my own house.
Alright, Graceties, I'm officially calling our meeting to order.
Shall we? Hey.
Got you 911 text.
- What's happened? - Alex Rivera.
She's in Oak Bluffs.
- Really? - Mm.
Hmm.
She say what she's doing here? I don't know.
She's probably trying to glow up from that raggedy Manhattan Graceties chapter.
You know, I think she's still salty that you chose a true marriage instead of a mistake.
I just hope that that's the last we see of her because my plate is already full with everything having to do with the cotillion as it is.
No, listen, she's probably just trying to sip some rosé and floss like the rest of the guests.
Mm.
I'm sure it's nothing.
I hope you're right.
[SIGHS.]
Drop top coupe, throw the whip in gear Took a bag full of cash like a souvenir, uh 211 and we outta here Put the pedal on the floor, got the jakes in the You know, I thought being the face of Eve's Crown would be a lot more glamor and a lot less, "Hi, welcome to Eve's Crown.
" You know, if these women filled the food bank the way they're filling up on free champagne, we would solve world hunger.
I feel like there are 10 times more Black people on this island than when we first got here.
Including Miss Alex Rivera.
Well, now, you know that I've been ear-hustling these broads all morning, and apparently, when Raymond and Alex were together, she wasn't one of them.
But now she is.
Sort of.
Yeah, it seems like they only really count you in if you're born in.
And what does that say about you and Nikki? [CHUCKLES.]
Is that why you're letting Teddy stand in as the father for the Father-Daughter dance? Teddy offered.
I thought it would be a great opportunity for Nikki to get to know him.
I can read it all over your face.
How do you really feel about your daddy taking her to cotillion? Alright.
I'm still trying to play the nice daughter to find out what happened to Mama, but I don't trust him.
I just can't help but feeling like he doesn't do anything without an agenda.
I may even have some dirt on what he was up to back in the day.
Tyrique and I got his brother Louis Franklin's journals from 1983 and 1984.
You and Tyrique have been working on this together? Mm-hmm.
Ange, you are in dangerous territory.
I know.
For both of us.
But I don't have a choice.
I have to find out what Teddy was up to when my mama was arrested, figure out the connection between him and those drugs that were being run in Edgartown.
- That's how I'll clear her name.
- Mom? Um, I know it's busy, but I got a text from Taylor.
Something about cotillion.
Can I go? - Yeah, you can go.
- [CHUCKLES.]
Okay.
Okay, Taylor, so we're at the beach, clearly.
Yes, but no peeking.
You're gonna love it.
Oh, my It feels nice.
Step over here.
Give me your hands.
Take a big step.
There you go.
Okay.
Alright.
You ready? Okay.
Oh What What is all this? Nicole Vaughn, will you allow me the honor of escorting you to the Oak Bluffs Cotillion? [CHUCKLES.]
You want to be my escort to cotillion? Yes.
Oh.
Okay.
Um Well, I would be honored.
Okay, so, there's one more surprise.
The other debs thought what Lauren did to you at the Claiming Ceremony was foul, so we took a vote.
Alright.
Oh, my God.
Taylor! "Most Congenial".
Most Congenial reads the "Letter to Fathers", right? [SNIFFLES.]
I know your dad wasn't really around, and if you want to, you don't have to.
Oh, no, no.
I The debs chose me.
Of Of course I want to.
Um "If it feels nice, roll the dice.
" That's what Mama Eve used to say.
So, uh I guess I'm reading a speech.
And you're gonna give a bomb speech.
[LAUGHS.]
- TEDDY: Ah! - Hi.
Your shop is coming along nicely.
A-As your mentor, I could offer some advice about marketing, but looks like you have that covered.
[CHUCKLES.]
I'm guessing you're here for Nikki? Mm.
I just want to make sure that you standing with her for cotillion isn't some game to you.
My motives towards my granddaughter are well-intentioned.
I want to get to know her, as I do you.
I'm here bearing gifts.
You can't buy her affection.
Mm.
It's tradition.
The father gives the debutante daughter pearls.
These pearls belonged to my mother, given to her by my father.
I would like to include Nikki in that lineage.
As for you, my gift No, I don't need your trinkets.
- Thank you.
- No.
It's a gesture.
Something I'd like to help you with.
I received a letter from a Nate Robinson.
The media attention and gossip compelled him to reach out to me.
He said that he was hurt because he was not able to protect his daughter from all of that.
Here.
You can read it for yourself.
It's It's all in there.
And when he explained the particulars of his case, he's been passed over for parole twice.
Did you know that? And yet, even behind bars, in a system that failed him, Nate's heart and mind are with you and Nikki.
I'm compelled to answer his cries for assistance.
- He asked you for help? - Mm-hmm.
And I'm sure I can do something.
I mean, I've raised funds for the Innocence Project.
I'm connected to the state's Attorney General.
And this is the relationship I want us to have Supporting one another.
Us against the world.
So, you're saying you could get him out? Hmm.
I-I mean, I need time.
Uh, Nikki doesn't I need to prepare her first.
It's not gonna happen overnight, Angela.
Um, legal briefs, proper investigation, hearings It could take months.
I need to think about this.
I'll wait until you make a decision.
I can't give you back the years lost between us, but perhaps I can give Nikki a few years with her father.
As for you I'm very happy with you and Tyrique.
He's a good man.
Baby, I remember when loving was easy Oh, no.
You are not just gonna lay around.
And your room is a mess, by the way.
Mom.
I don't want those open.
There will be other Taylors.
There's only one you.
And I wish you would value yourself a bit more.
Now, get up.
A Dupont is never late.
Late for what? - Work.
- What? You're the one who decided to get yourself kicked out of cotillion.
Now you get to spend the rest of the summer deciding what you want to do with the rest of your life.
Now, get up.
Come on, Lauren.
You got 15 minutes.
Hey.
You told Teddy about us? He already knew.
He saw us leaving his office together, but I don't think he knows we took those journals.
Well, I skimmed them, and I didn't see anything about my mom or about Teddy dealing drugs, but I did see something in this one about a Calvin.
That's your dad, right? Why would my dad be in Louis' journals? He only worked for Teddy.
What's wrong? You seem like you got something else on your mind.
[SIGHS.]
It's Nikki's father.
Nate.
Teddy offered to get him out of prison.
Just like that.
Like he was deciding what to order for dinner.
Is that a bad thing? Tyrique, I've thought a lot about Nate getting out so Nikki could have a relationship with him, but just now, all of a sudden because I'm a Franklin, his freedom is a phone call away? It just feels like not cheating, but, like, what about all the other Black men in prison wrongfully, unfair sentences, who don't have a Teddy Franklin? Teddy took me in and changed the course of my life.
For a while, he made my father's death feel like hitting the lottery, and I-I struggled with that.
But then I-I realized Teddy was trying to do right by me.
I think he's trying to do the same for you and Nikki.
Take the access he has.
Then find a way to pay it forward.
Why are you so amazing? Campaigning for your woman's baby daddy.
Have you thought about what's gonna happen when he gets out? You have nothing to worry about.
I'm right where I want to be.
Um, can you give me a moment, please? Daddy, we need to talk.
Can you give us the room, please? Thanks.
Will you be able to present the "Letter to Daughters" tomorrow? I'm I'm just concerned about your condition, - and after the fall - I'm fine.
Besides, we have greater things to worry about.
- You were right about Tyrique.
- Mm.
So he did cut the camera.
And he's seeing Angela.
He lied to me, which is a ship that I have to right, as well as my relationship with Angela, which is why I'm going to help Nikki's father get out of prison.
- Prison? - Her ex wrote me, and now I have an opportunity that I'm going to use to my advantage.
To break up Angela and Tyrique? Mm-hmm.
Daddy, come on.
These are people we're talking about, not chess pieces.
I'm helping! And when it all works out, I'll be the kindly patron, the Vaughns will be reunited, I will get my soldier back, Franklin Holdings will receive great PR, and the stadium deal could use a fresh coat of "Innocence Project" paint to cover up the scuffs we've accumulated along the way.
Hmm.
Well, you might want to double coat the scuffs before Raymond's ex comes knocking.
She's summering in the Bluffs, and she will keep her ear close to the ground.
[SIGHS.]
The last thing I need right now is Alex to take notes during cotillion.
I mean, Olivia already wants my head on a platter after Lauren's stunt at the Claiming Ceremony.
The cotillion has to be perfect.
Then we give Alex nothing to report.
I know how much this weekend means to you.
We're always talking about my legacy.
The cotillion could be the beginning of yours.
And it has always been me and you against the world.
Me and you, against the world.
[SIGHS.]
[LAUGHS.]
Mm.
Take care of yourself, Daddy.
I will.
Okay.
Jimmy! Mm.
Vacation's always better with bubbles.
Care for a glass? Oh, relax.
My housemates have gone into town.
No one will see you.
Yet you show up, uninvited, at my house, and let everyone on the island see that you're here for the entire summer? You asked me to look into Teddy Franklin.
I can do that best right here, where he lives and breathes.
But I need you to do that without stirring up the past.
So, Leah doesn't know you married your rebound? It may have started that way, but Leah and I are very much in love.
Just do your job and keep my wife out of it.
Clear? Crystal.
[BOTH LAUGH.]
How about that? You're a natural.
You take lessons when you were younger? No.
Um, actually, Mama Eve taught me.
Yeah, she was a really good dancer.
She was.
I hope my escorting you would have made her happy.
We have much work to do to get acquainted.
Um, if there is anything Um, advice, an answer, an ear I'm here.
Thanks.
Actually, um I have to read "A Letter to Fathers" at the cotillion, and that's just something I don't really know anything about.
I actually looked up a few of your TED Talks for pointers.
[LAUGHS.]
Well, um, to combat my nerves, I carry an antique coin given to me by my great-grandfather, who stood next to Frederick Douglass to talk about freedom.
It reminds me that I come from a very long line of brilliant orators.
And so do you.
- Thank you.
- You're welcome.
So, I will see you tomorrow? Wouldn't miss it.
Oh! [CHUCKLES.]
- Bye.
- Bye.
Hi.
Um, Nikki, I wanted to apologize to you for what I did to you at the Claiming Ceremony.
Sorry.
Actually, I owe you an apology, too, Lauren.
I didn't mean to hurt you with Taylor.
I-It's cool.
I mean, she gave me a ton of chances, and I just ruined them all, and then I took it out on you, and now I'm making up for it because my mother is making you work all summer, so Don't chip a nail, princess.
Well, I'd rather break a nail than be broken, so Have fun at the cotillion.
I really do mean that.
Ooh [SIGHS.]
Ooh ANGELA: Y'all do not play about cotillion.
Uh, no, we do not.
Well, this is a perfect color match.
I've got the clippings right here.
Pop it in, extra volume, you're good.
Okay.
For volume.
Uh, 20% off, right? Well, how do you think I stay wealthy? Okay.
Just taking notes.
I hope you don't mind, but my father told me about Nikki's father, and I'm sorry that you both had to go through something so difficult.
But I assure you, if anyone can help, Teddy Franklin can.
Listen, please do not say anything to Nikki.
She knows nothing about this.
- I do not - Trust me.
I know things with an ex can be tricky, - and I wouldn't hurt Nikki.
- Good.
'Cause I wouldn't want to have to take out my Boston on you.
Oh.
Yeah, please don't do that, because something tells me that your Boston would likely Likely beat my bougie ass.
Up and down the street.
- Okay? - [BOTH LAUGH.]
- WOMAN: Thank you.
- Thank you.
Honestly, I feel guilty accepting Teddy's help.
It's like he's doing too much.
He made this speech about it being us against the world, and it's like, man Wait Wait, he He said that to you? I know he's trying to make up for lost time, but it's too much.
- It's too soon.
- Yeah.
Well, America's justice system has never favored Black people, whether we're wealthy or poor.
So, helping Nate is a move toward solidarity.
[CELLPHONE RINGS.]
For all of us.
Oh.
Uh.
Oh.
I have to take this.
Oh, yeah, well, I've gotta go.
I've got some seating charts to review.
- Thank you for this.
- Yeah.
This is a pre-paid collect call from an inmate at ANGELA: Hi.
I-I'm sorry to be calling you like this, but Teddy showed me your letter.
Says your case is up for review.
That's That's not why I did it.
I-I wanted to make sure Nikki was protected.
But if he's gonna help He says all I have to do is say the word and it's done.
So, what's the word, Gee? The word is I got to think about how all of this will affect Nikki.
[SIGHS.]
I don't want it to seem like I'm trying to keep you in prison, but I feel like Teddy's trying to buy my love.
If writing your father gets me out of here, to meet my daughter and get back what I lost, I-I'll take that chance.
That man is your father.
He wants another shot, and you hold his fate in your hands.
When you gonna let Teddy Franklin out of jail? Oh, not too hot, please.
Ow! I said not too hot.
You violated our agreement, Alex.
How did you get in here? Money grants access, dear.
Isn't that why you've worked so hard, to go from fisherman's daughter to financial news anchor? The deal was I couldn't reach out to Raymond.
I didn't.
He reached out to me.
I told you once Stay away from my family.
I don't like repeating myself.
I'm not scared of you anymore.
That's because I'm not trying to scare you.
Yet.
You know, this spa has very nice showers.
You should try one.
Smelling a little fishy in here.
[GASPS.]
You were good to me once.
Uh, what's this is hear that you're starting a charity? Nikki just didn't have the same advantages as I do, and I kinda used that to hurt her.
I just want to be better, you know? I mean, something more than running office errands at Franklin Holdings.
Don't be mad.
I'm not.
Now, come on.
- Tell me about this.
- Okay.
So, it's called "Lauren's Closet".
Mm-hmm.
And I am donating my wardrobe to young women who need professional clothing that can't afford it.
Mom, it's actually really taken off.
Like, all of my followers have gotten involved.
[CHUCKLES.]
Wow.
That's impressive.
I hope you're not giving that one away.
I don't really know what to do with it.
Well, I think maybe you should just wear it.
You've clearly risen above your mistakes, which is what I told the Graceties when I went to plead your case.
- Seriously? - Mm-hmm.
- Oh! - [LAUGHS.]
Welcome back to cotillion, baby.
Thank you, Mommy.
Mm-hmm.
[LAUGHS.]
Excuse me, everyone.
May I have your attention? I just wanted to thank you all for coming to celebrate my first cotillion as president.
[CHUCKLES.]
To the first of many.
Mm.
Angela, Patricia, you both look exquisite.
- Thank you.
- Thank you.
I'm moving you to the family table.
- Oh.
- Here.
New table cards.
Well, enjoy cotillion, Miss Aunt Piggy, Aunt Angela.
Thank you, Quincy.
[CHUCKLES.]
Oh.
Table One.
So, the Franklins get the best seats in the house.
Yes.
And everyone will be watching.
You know, I think I could use a glass of bubbly myself.
Could you grab one for me? I'll get you.
[CHUCKLES.]
And just what are you up to with all this Nate business? I don't trust you as far as I can throw you.
[CHUCKLES.]
Well, instead of focusing on me, worry about yourself.
You know, I was surprised to see you here.
I'm sure someone on this old staff will recognize you from back in the old days.
Loyalty keeps them from spilling my secrets.
What keeps them from spilling yours? I'm sorry.
I better go.
I have a very special deb to escort.
[CHUCKLES.]
Well, he's trying, I guess.
You okay? You know what? I just knew that I would be able to push through tonight, but I'm having another one of my terrible headaches, and I don't want to ruin it for Nikki.
So, can you please tell baby girl that I am so sorry, and you make sure that you take lots of videos, okay? Alright, sorry, I'm out of this Mickey flick.
Feel better.
Honey, you should head over to cotillion.
This cocktail hour is for friends and family.
I must have overlooked inviting you.
I heard some Graceties chattering, and I thought it was open to all.
Though you should have seen the glare I got from Olivia as I signed the guest book.
She's not a fan.
Oh? Why would you say that? She's had a grudge against me, ever since I'm sure you know the way I broke Raymond's heart didn't sit well with her.
Leaving a "Dear John" letter was what was the word she used? "Corriente".
A "Dear John" letter would definitely rub Olivia the wrong way.
Excuse me.
I have guests to attend to.
OLIVIA: Ladies and gentlemen, our debutantes and their escorts.
[APPLAUSE.]
[ HIP-HOP MUSIC PLAYS.]
Alright, alright, listen up.
You're always telling us to be the change we want to see.
Well, this is it.
[APPLAUSE.]
[CHEERS AND APPLAUSE.]
[CHEERS AND APPLAUSE.]
[CLEARS THROAT.]
Sorry.
[INDISTINCT SHOUTING.]
MAN: Hey, debs and gents 2021 in the building.
[CHEERS AND APPLAUSE.]
Well, that was quite unexpected.
[LAUGHS.]
Now, ladies and gentlemen, as your outgoing chapter president, it is my pleasure to deliver this evening's opening remarks.
I'd like to start by saying this has always been my favorite event of the year.
It's the time when the families of Oak Bluffs come together in celebration of the next generation of stellar young ladies.
Alex dumped you? Our entire marriage, I thought you chose me because you loved me.
And now I found out I'm the consolation prize? Why would she say that to me except to hurt me? I'm with the right woman, Leah.
It doesn't matter how we got here.
It matters to me.
I want her gone.
Now.
And if I have to do it, it won't be pretty.
[CRICKETS CHIRPING.]
"Calvin Chapman was found in his car, shot in the head.
What has Teddy done?" I know the story.
Someone high out of their mind shot him on their front step for serving an eviction notice.
[CELLPHONE CLICKS.]
[RINGING.]
At the tone, please record your message.
Angela, call me back.
I think Teddy's been lying about how my father died.
OLIVIA: You are our blessings.
[APPLAUSE.]
Champagne, please.
Uh, he'll have a water.
[SCOFFS.]
You ready for "Letter to Daughters"? Mm-hmm.
Steady as a rock.
[BOTH LAUGH.]
OLIVIA: Leah Franklin-Dupont.
Oh.
There's your cue to introduce me.
[APPLAUSE.]
Good evening, everyone, and thank you, Olivia, for your decades of service and amazing leadership.
On the night of my debutante ball, my father delivered the "Letter to Daughters".
20 years later, to once again bless us with his wisdom, my father, Mr.
Teddy Franklin.
[APPLAUSE.]
Thank you.
With daughters, a father's role comes with added responsibility.
You are the one she comes to in fear, in confidence, for advice, to lean on at all times.
But fathers sometimes fall short.
Angela Vaughn, my daughter, you deserved better.
I thought grand gestures could sweep away years of inaction.
I hope an apology gives us a real start.
Angela I'm sorry.
And now, our most "Most Congenial" debutante will deliver "Letters to Fathers".
Nicole Vaughn.
My granddaughter.
[APPLAUSE.]
It's alright.
Speak from the heart.
[SIGHS.]
I don't know what it's like to have a father's love, but I was blessed to have three amazing women in my life who made sure I had everything I needed.
Though all the fathers out there deserve their thanks, my "Letter to Fathers" will send some love to all the amazing mothers out there.
Like mine.
That bracelet and that coin They're both family heirlooms.
And I'm still not sure I should have accepted them.
Mm.
Be grateful.
He's not always giving.
Mademoiselle.
Thank you.
May I share a dance with another one of my girls? Leah.
You used your entire speech to apologize to Angela? I want to win her trust.
Public acknowledgement of my missteps could help with that.
What about my public acknowledgement, Daddy? I mean, the hoops I've jumped through covering for you.
Lying to my husband for you.
Keeping your diagnosis a secret.
I mean, I'm the one who supports and protects the great Teddy Franklin.
Not her.
[VOICE BREAKING.]
And then I don't even get a mention in the "Letter to Daughters"? If you want to spend the time you have left with Angela, go ahead.
I guess we'll just share our last moment at your funeral.
No.
[CELLPHONE CLICKS.]
Teddy Franklin.
[BUZZER.]
[CHATTER.]
Robinson.
Let's go.
Crack D-42! [BUZZER, CELL DOOR OPENS.]
Ain't got time for no comments Only adding' paper to the money clip Stack it up to the ceiling So I don't feel a thing when I'm spendin' it I saw what you did for Nikki.
Oh.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
And I have good news for you.
Nate is gonna be released.
- Released? - Mm-hmm.
I spoke with a few of my contacts.
Turns out Nate is part of a database of cases that were under review after all of these social-justice uprisings and is eligible for immediate release due to gross negligence.
He is on his way to the island now.
You know, this is my life.
This is my daughter's life.
You don't get to just make decisions that affect us.
You know, I have offered you everything I could think of to earn your trust, including an apology.
I should be able to do this for you as a father.
One apology doesn't erase years of abandonment.
Neither does a family bracelet or a letter or your connections.
You were never a father to me.
Stop trying to be one now.
He was so smug, so proud of himself.
Like, son, you don't know my life.
He doesn't know what this means for me, for Nikki.
And what about Nate, who's just gonna be dropped into this new world.
I mean, the audacity.
You want a piece of this cake? 'Cause it's good.
Why are you so calm? You trust Teddy Franklin less than I do.
You don't got nothing to say? You don't want to hear what I got to say.
I want to hear what you got to say.
No, you want to see some furniture moving up in this Mickey flick.
Alright, fine.
You want the real-real? This ain't about Teddy.
You just mad because you're gonna have to step in some mess that you made.
You been lying to baby girl about her father for 17 years, and it stops tonight.
You gonna tell her the truth.
Now! Threw away my damn cake.
It's a good damn thing I thought to get me a second slice.
Oh! There you are.
Ha! I noticed you were not in attendance tonight with Angela.
How did my father die? The story you've told me all these years isn't true.
Perhaps I misremembered.
It was a painful loss.
I spent my whole life believing your lie.
Are you accusing me of something? Why the story, when he was found in his car? Because that's where he shot himself in the head.
[BREATHING HEAVILY.]
Your father committed suicide.
Your mother and I made up that story for the insurance company.
We told them that Calvin had been working at the time of his death so that you and your mother would be provided for! That would not have happened if his death had been reported as self-inflicted.
I hate to tell it to you this way, son I'm not your son.
Teddy? Hey.
Hey.
Hey, can I get some help? Somebody?! Teddy.
I heard yelling.
I was supposed to meet Mr.
Franklin.
How can I help you, brother? Help me get him to the hospital.
Call 911.
Tell them we're on the way.
Hey.
Teddy.
Teddy.
I talked to him last week.
I want that exclusive.
- So you need to follow - As much as I want Teddy to pay for what he's done, my marriage comes first.
You have to leave.
Let's go for a little ride.
[SCOFFS.]
Driver.
I never would have answered your call if I'd known I'd be chased out of town by a Dupont again.
What do you mean "again"? 20 years ago, I wasn't your mother's vision of the perfect woman for her perfect son.
Leah was.
Olivia and Teddy made sure that their little prince and princess could get married and create the dynasty that they both dreamed of.
Your mother wrote me a check to get out of town.
You took money to walk away from our marriage? [SIGHS.]
Olivia and Teddy threatened to have my parents deported, Raymond.
I had no choice.
It's a lot of money.
I never cashed it.
I keep it as a reminder that everything I have, I earned myself.
I didn't know.
[CELLPHONE VIBRATING.]
Leah.
Okay, okay, okay.
Calm down.
Calm down, babe.
I'm on my way.
Is everything okay? Teddy had a heart attack.
Take me to Oak Bluffs Hospital.
MAN: Yes, sir.
[LAUGHS.]
I'm too hyped to go to sleep.
I've never had an experience like this, and I-I don't want tonight to end.
Nikki, honey, can you sit down? [SIGHS.]
I don't know how to start.
I gotta tell you something.
Angie.
Piggy, not now.
Tyrique is on the phone.
It's Teddy.
Well, can you at least give us an estimation about how long he's gonna be in surgery? WOMAN: Ma'am, I don't have any information.
- Hey.
- Hey.
What happened? He had a heart attack? They said it's a good thing we brought him in.
An ambulance wouldn't have made it in time.
"We"? NIKKI: Mom, who's that man? Do you know him? Nikki, I I've been trying to tell you any other way than this.
Tell me what? That man is Nate Robinson.
Your father.
Teddy keeps journals in his home office.
Angela, he can't know that we're together.
I just want this cotillion to be perfect.
NIKKI: I'm being introduced into society.
I just have to find a father figure to dance with.
NATE: Nikki needs a father.
After 17 years.
LAUREN: Starting over is a big deal, especially for someone who has a criminal record.
- Why, Lauren? - I watched you kiss my girlfriend.
I don't want to be around you anymore.
You're out of cotillion.
I'm gonna destroy Teddy Franklin.
What's the plan? - RAYMOND: Alex Rivera.
- I would think twice before bringing her back into our lives.
TEDDY: The strength of the tremors have picked up.
LEAH: How long are you going to keep it a secret? TYRIQUE: We better get back.
We don't want them wondering where we are.
Dr.
Keller, it was no more than a dizzy spell.
DR.
KELLER: Which could have been much worse.
If you keep ignoring my medical advice, I'll have to discontinue Do that, and my endowment to your institute in Geneva will discontinue.
Understood? Good morning.
[SIGHS.]
Good morning.
Please, sit down.
I, uh I called you here this morning because when I excused myself from dinner the other evening I saw you and Angela slip out of my office.
Is that why the cameras have gone dark at Eve's Crown? Are you involved with her? I'm sorry, Teddy.
I-I couldn't keep spying on her.
Mm-hmm.
This is a knot of my own design.
My demands on those closest to me can take a toll, like He was doing his job.
Your father was a bodyguard, not a bill collector.
I sent him to Edgartown to collect rent because I knew he would treat people with dignity, and he lost his life.
I know the story.
Someone high out of their mind shot him on the front step for serving an eviction notice.
I sent you to spy on Angela because I trusted you.
Trust means a great deal to me, especially if you're seeing my daughter.
[LAUGHS.]
You know, if she has trust in you, one day, she will come and place her trust in me.
[SCOFFS.]
Spying on Angela isn't a way to gain her trust or get to know her.
You've been absent her whole life.
You're right, my boy.
I'm going to give Angela and Nikki a cotillion week to remember.
[CHUCKLES.]
Head high Confident Strong mind Resilient You can't break me, I was born to rise Our kind of people Ooh, ooh Our kind of people Ooh, ooh It's the same deal every time I go home.
They make up a whole list of Okay, ladies, we have less than 48 hours to cotillion, and this is gonna be the best cotillion yet.
"I have two Emmys and the highest-rated news show on the air," and my father sill made me clean the fish.
- [LAUGHTER.]
- Manicure be damned.
Alex.
What brings you to Oak Bluffs? [SIGHS.]
Well, I haven't taken a break since the Obama administration.
So I decided to summer here with friends, Graceties from the Manhattan chapter.
Well, you all are so lucky to have found a rental, you know, this late in the season.
And just in time for the Oak Bluffs Cotillion.
Come to think of it, last time I saw you was at your cotillion.
Well, that was ages ago.
Another lifetime.
For those of you who are unaware, Alex was married to Raymond for wait, did you guys make it to 12 months? [CHUCKLES.]
Thank you for the warm welcome.
I know my presence as a celebrity can be a little daunting.
You know what's even more daunting? Trying to find last-minute glam for the cotillion.
20% off for all Graceties and prospectives at Eve's Crown.
Where everybody gets treated like a celebrity.
Homegirl trying to start some mess.
Hmm.
Thanks, but I can clean my own house.
Alright, Graceties, I'm officially calling our meeting to order.
Shall we? Hey.
Got you 911 text.
- What's happened? - Alex Rivera.
She's in Oak Bluffs.
- Really? - Mm.
Hmm.
She say what she's doing here? I don't know.
She's probably trying to glow up from that raggedy Manhattan Graceties chapter.
You know, I think she's still salty that you chose a true marriage instead of a mistake.
I just hope that that's the last we see of her because my plate is already full with everything having to do with the cotillion as it is.
No, listen, she's probably just trying to sip some rosé and floss like the rest of the guests.
Mm.
I'm sure it's nothing.
I hope you're right.
[SIGHS.]
Drop top coupe, throw the whip in gear Took a bag full of cash like a souvenir, uh 211 and we outta here Put the pedal on the floor, got the jakes in the You know, I thought being the face of Eve's Crown would be a lot more glamor and a lot less, "Hi, welcome to Eve's Crown.
" You know, if these women filled the food bank the way they're filling up on free champagne, we would solve world hunger.
I feel like there are 10 times more Black people on this island than when we first got here.
Including Miss Alex Rivera.
Well, now, you know that I've been ear-hustling these broads all morning, and apparently, when Raymond and Alex were together, she wasn't one of them.
But now she is.
Sort of.
Yeah, it seems like they only really count you in if you're born in.
And what does that say about you and Nikki? [CHUCKLES.]
Is that why you're letting Teddy stand in as the father for the Father-Daughter dance? Teddy offered.
I thought it would be a great opportunity for Nikki to get to know him.
I can read it all over your face.
How do you really feel about your daddy taking her to cotillion? Alright.
I'm still trying to play the nice daughter to find out what happened to Mama, but I don't trust him.
I just can't help but feeling like he doesn't do anything without an agenda.
I may even have some dirt on what he was up to back in the day.
Tyrique and I got his brother Louis Franklin's journals from 1983 and 1984.
You and Tyrique have been working on this together? Mm-hmm.
Ange, you are in dangerous territory.
I know.
For both of us.
But I don't have a choice.
I have to find out what Teddy was up to when my mama was arrested, figure out the connection between him and those drugs that were being run in Edgartown.
- That's how I'll clear her name.
- Mom? Um, I know it's busy, but I got a text from Taylor.
Something about cotillion.
Can I go? - Yeah, you can go.
- [CHUCKLES.]
Okay.
Okay, Taylor, so we're at the beach, clearly.
Yes, but no peeking.
You're gonna love it.
Oh, my It feels nice.
Step over here.
Give me your hands.
Take a big step.
There you go.
Okay.
Alright.
You ready? Okay.
Oh What What is all this? Nicole Vaughn, will you allow me the honor of escorting you to the Oak Bluffs Cotillion? [CHUCKLES.]
You want to be my escort to cotillion? Yes.
Oh.
Okay.
Um Well, I would be honored.
Okay, so, there's one more surprise.
The other debs thought what Lauren did to you at the Claiming Ceremony was foul, so we took a vote.
Alright.
Oh, my God.
Taylor! "Most Congenial".
Most Congenial reads the "Letter to Fathers", right? [SNIFFLES.]
I know your dad wasn't really around, and if you want to, you don't have to.
Oh, no, no.
I The debs chose me.
Of Of course I want to.
Um "If it feels nice, roll the dice.
" That's what Mama Eve used to say.
So, uh I guess I'm reading a speech.
And you're gonna give a bomb speech.
[LAUGHS.]
- TEDDY: Ah! - Hi.
Your shop is coming along nicely.
A-As your mentor, I could offer some advice about marketing, but looks like you have that covered.
[CHUCKLES.]
I'm guessing you're here for Nikki? Mm.
I just want to make sure that you standing with her for cotillion isn't some game to you.
My motives towards my granddaughter are well-intentioned.
I want to get to know her, as I do you.
I'm here bearing gifts.
You can't buy her affection.
Mm.
It's tradition.
The father gives the debutante daughter pearls.
These pearls belonged to my mother, given to her by my father.
I would like to include Nikki in that lineage.
As for you, my gift No, I don't need your trinkets.
- Thank you.
- No.
It's a gesture.
Something I'd like to help you with.
I received a letter from a Nate Robinson.
The media attention and gossip compelled him to reach out to me.
He said that he was hurt because he was not able to protect his daughter from all of that.
Here.
You can read it for yourself.
It's It's all in there.
And when he explained the particulars of his case, he's been passed over for parole twice.
Did you know that? And yet, even behind bars, in a system that failed him, Nate's heart and mind are with you and Nikki.
I'm compelled to answer his cries for assistance.
- He asked you for help? - Mm-hmm.
And I'm sure I can do something.
I mean, I've raised funds for the Innocence Project.
I'm connected to the state's Attorney General.
And this is the relationship I want us to have Supporting one another.
Us against the world.
So, you're saying you could get him out? Hmm.
I-I mean, I need time.
Uh, Nikki doesn't I need to prepare her first.
It's not gonna happen overnight, Angela.
Um, legal briefs, proper investigation, hearings It could take months.
I need to think about this.
I'll wait until you make a decision.
I can't give you back the years lost between us, but perhaps I can give Nikki a few years with her father.
As for you I'm very happy with you and Tyrique.
He's a good man.
Baby, I remember when loving was easy Oh, no.
You are not just gonna lay around.
And your room is a mess, by the way.
Mom.
I don't want those open.
There will be other Taylors.
There's only one you.
And I wish you would value yourself a bit more.
Now, get up.
A Dupont is never late.
Late for what? - Work.
- What? You're the one who decided to get yourself kicked out of cotillion.
Now you get to spend the rest of the summer deciding what you want to do with the rest of your life.
Now, get up.
Come on, Lauren.
You got 15 minutes.
Hey.
You told Teddy about us? He already knew.
He saw us leaving his office together, but I don't think he knows we took those journals.
Well, I skimmed them, and I didn't see anything about my mom or about Teddy dealing drugs, but I did see something in this one about a Calvin.
That's your dad, right? Why would my dad be in Louis' journals? He only worked for Teddy.
What's wrong? You seem like you got something else on your mind.
[SIGHS.]
It's Nikki's father.
Nate.
Teddy offered to get him out of prison.
Just like that.
Like he was deciding what to order for dinner.
Is that a bad thing? Tyrique, I've thought a lot about Nate getting out so Nikki could have a relationship with him, but just now, all of a sudden because I'm a Franklin, his freedom is a phone call away? It just feels like not cheating, but, like, what about all the other Black men in prison wrongfully, unfair sentences, who don't have a Teddy Franklin? Teddy took me in and changed the course of my life.
For a while, he made my father's death feel like hitting the lottery, and I-I struggled with that.
But then I-I realized Teddy was trying to do right by me.
I think he's trying to do the same for you and Nikki.
Take the access he has.
Then find a way to pay it forward.
Why are you so amazing? Campaigning for your woman's baby daddy.
Have you thought about what's gonna happen when he gets out? You have nothing to worry about.
I'm right where I want to be.
Um, can you give me a moment, please? Daddy, we need to talk.
Can you give us the room, please? Thanks.
Will you be able to present the "Letter to Daughters" tomorrow? I'm I'm just concerned about your condition, - and after the fall - I'm fine.
Besides, we have greater things to worry about.
- You were right about Tyrique.
- Mm.
So he did cut the camera.
And he's seeing Angela.
He lied to me, which is a ship that I have to right, as well as my relationship with Angela, which is why I'm going to help Nikki's father get out of prison.
- Prison? - Her ex wrote me, and now I have an opportunity that I'm going to use to my advantage.
To break up Angela and Tyrique? Mm-hmm.
Daddy, come on.
These are people we're talking about, not chess pieces.
I'm helping! And when it all works out, I'll be the kindly patron, the Vaughns will be reunited, I will get my soldier back, Franklin Holdings will receive great PR, and the stadium deal could use a fresh coat of "Innocence Project" paint to cover up the scuffs we've accumulated along the way.
Hmm.
Well, you might want to double coat the scuffs before Raymond's ex comes knocking.
She's summering in the Bluffs, and she will keep her ear close to the ground.
[SIGHS.]
The last thing I need right now is Alex to take notes during cotillion.
I mean, Olivia already wants my head on a platter after Lauren's stunt at the Claiming Ceremony.
The cotillion has to be perfect.
Then we give Alex nothing to report.
I know how much this weekend means to you.
We're always talking about my legacy.
The cotillion could be the beginning of yours.
And it has always been me and you against the world.
Me and you, against the world.
[SIGHS.]
[LAUGHS.]
Mm.
Take care of yourself, Daddy.
I will.
Okay.
Jimmy! Mm.
Vacation's always better with bubbles.
Care for a glass? Oh, relax.
My housemates have gone into town.
No one will see you.
Yet you show up, uninvited, at my house, and let everyone on the island see that you're here for the entire summer? You asked me to look into Teddy Franklin.
I can do that best right here, where he lives and breathes.
But I need you to do that without stirring up the past.
So, Leah doesn't know you married your rebound? It may have started that way, but Leah and I are very much in love.
Just do your job and keep my wife out of it.
Clear? Crystal.
[BOTH LAUGH.]
How about that? You're a natural.
You take lessons when you were younger? No.
Um, actually, Mama Eve taught me.
Yeah, she was a really good dancer.
She was.
I hope my escorting you would have made her happy.
We have much work to do to get acquainted.
Um, if there is anything Um, advice, an answer, an ear I'm here.
Thanks.
Actually, um I have to read "A Letter to Fathers" at the cotillion, and that's just something I don't really know anything about.
I actually looked up a few of your TED Talks for pointers.
[LAUGHS.]
Well, um, to combat my nerves, I carry an antique coin given to me by my great-grandfather, who stood next to Frederick Douglass to talk about freedom.
It reminds me that I come from a very long line of brilliant orators.
And so do you.
- Thank you.
- You're welcome.
So, I will see you tomorrow? Wouldn't miss it.
Oh! [CHUCKLES.]
- Bye.
- Bye.
Hi.
Um, Nikki, I wanted to apologize to you for what I did to you at the Claiming Ceremony.
Sorry.
Actually, I owe you an apology, too, Lauren.
I didn't mean to hurt you with Taylor.
I-It's cool.
I mean, she gave me a ton of chances, and I just ruined them all, and then I took it out on you, and now I'm making up for it because my mother is making you work all summer, so Don't chip a nail, princess.
Well, I'd rather break a nail than be broken, so Have fun at the cotillion.
I really do mean that.
Ooh [SIGHS.]
Ooh ANGELA: Y'all do not play about cotillion.
Uh, no, we do not.
Well, this is a perfect color match.
I've got the clippings right here.
Pop it in, extra volume, you're good.
Okay.
For volume.
Uh, 20% off, right? Well, how do you think I stay wealthy? Okay.
Just taking notes.
I hope you don't mind, but my father told me about Nikki's father, and I'm sorry that you both had to go through something so difficult.
But I assure you, if anyone can help, Teddy Franklin can.
Listen, please do not say anything to Nikki.
She knows nothing about this.
- I do not - Trust me.
I know things with an ex can be tricky, - and I wouldn't hurt Nikki.
- Good.
'Cause I wouldn't want to have to take out my Boston on you.
Oh.
Yeah, please don't do that, because something tells me that your Boston would likely Likely beat my bougie ass.
Up and down the street.
- Okay? - [BOTH LAUGH.]
- WOMAN: Thank you.
- Thank you.
Honestly, I feel guilty accepting Teddy's help.
It's like he's doing too much.
He made this speech about it being us against the world, and it's like, man Wait Wait, he He said that to you? I know he's trying to make up for lost time, but it's too much.
- It's too soon.
- Yeah.
Well, America's justice system has never favored Black people, whether we're wealthy or poor.
So, helping Nate is a move toward solidarity.
[CELLPHONE RINGS.]
For all of us.
Oh.
Uh.
Oh.
I have to take this.
Oh, yeah, well, I've gotta go.
I've got some seating charts to review.
- Thank you for this.
- Yeah.
This is a pre-paid collect call from an inmate at ANGELA: Hi.
I-I'm sorry to be calling you like this, but Teddy showed me your letter.
Says your case is up for review.
That's That's not why I did it.
I-I wanted to make sure Nikki was protected.
But if he's gonna help He says all I have to do is say the word and it's done.
So, what's the word, Gee? The word is I got to think about how all of this will affect Nikki.
[SIGHS.]
I don't want it to seem like I'm trying to keep you in prison, but I feel like Teddy's trying to buy my love.
If writing your father gets me out of here, to meet my daughter and get back what I lost, I-I'll take that chance.
That man is your father.
He wants another shot, and you hold his fate in your hands.
When you gonna let Teddy Franklin out of jail? Oh, not too hot, please.
Ow! I said not too hot.
You violated our agreement, Alex.
How did you get in here? Money grants access, dear.
Isn't that why you've worked so hard, to go from fisherman's daughter to financial news anchor? The deal was I couldn't reach out to Raymond.
I didn't.
He reached out to me.
I told you once Stay away from my family.
I don't like repeating myself.
I'm not scared of you anymore.
That's because I'm not trying to scare you.
Yet.
You know, this spa has very nice showers.
You should try one.
Smelling a little fishy in here.
[GASPS.]
You were good to me once.
Uh, what's this is hear that you're starting a charity? Nikki just didn't have the same advantages as I do, and I kinda used that to hurt her.
I just want to be better, you know? I mean, something more than running office errands at Franklin Holdings.
Don't be mad.
I'm not.
Now, come on.
- Tell me about this.
- Okay.
So, it's called "Lauren's Closet".
Mm-hmm.
And I am donating my wardrobe to young women who need professional clothing that can't afford it.
Mom, it's actually really taken off.
Like, all of my followers have gotten involved.
[CHUCKLES.]
Wow.
That's impressive.
I hope you're not giving that one away.
I don't really know what to do with it.
Well, I think maybe you should just wear it.
You've clearly risen above your mistakes, which is what I told the Graceties when I went to plead your case.
- Seriously? - Mm-hmm.
- Oh! - [LAUGHS.]
Welcome back to cotillion, baby.
Thank you, Mommy.
Mm-hmm.
[LAUGHS.]
Excuse me, everyone.
May I have your attention? I just wanted to thank you all for coming to celebrate my first cotillion as president.
[CHUCKLES.]
To the first of many.
Mm.
Angela, Patricia, you both look exquisite.
- Thank you.
- Thank you.
I'm moving you to the family table.
- Oh.
- Here.
New table cards.
Well, enjoy cotillion, Miss Aunt Piggy, Aunt Angela.
Thank you, Quincy.
[CHUCKLES.]
Oh.
Table One.
So, the Franklins get the best seats in the house.
Yes.
And everyone will be watching.
You know, I think I could use a glass of bubbly myself.
Could you grab one for me? I'll get you.
[CHUCKLES.]
And just what are you up to with all this Nate business? I don't trust you as far as I can throw you.
[CHUCKLES.]
Well, instead of focusing on me, worry about yourself.
You know, I was surprised to see you here.
I'm sure someone on this old staff will recognize you from back in the old days.
Loyalty keeps them from spilling my secrets.
What keeps them from spilling yours? I'm sorry.
I better go.
I have a very special deb to escort.
[CHUCKLES.]
Well, he's trying, I guess.
You okay? You know what? I just knew that I would be able to push through tonight, but I'm having another one of my terrible headaches, and I don't want to ruin it for Nikki.
So, can you please tell baby girl that I am so sorry, and you make sure that you take lots of videos, okay? Alright, sorry, I'm out of this Mickey flick.
Feel better.
Honey, you should head over to cotillion.
This cocktail hour is for friends and family.
I must have overlooked inviting you.
I heard some Graceties chattering, and I thought it was open to all.
Though you should have seen the glare I got from Olivia as I signed the guest book.
She's not a fan.
Oh? Why would you say that? She's had a grudge against me, ever since I'm sure you know the way I broke Raymond's heart didn't sit well with her.
Leaving a "Dear John" letter was what was the word she used? "Corriente".
A "Dear John" letter would definitely rub Olivia the wrong way.
Excuse me.
I have guests to attend to.
OLIVIA: Ladies and gentlemen, our debutantes and their escorts.
[APPLAUSE.]
[ HIP-HOP MUSIC PLAYS.]
Alright, alright, listen up.
You're always telling us to be the change we want to see.
Well, this is it.
[APPLAUSE.]
[CHEERS AND APPLAUSE.]
[CHEERS AND APPLAUSE.]
[CLEARS THROAT.]
Sorry.
[INDISTINCT SHOUTING.]
MAN: Hey, debs and gents 2021 in the building.
[CHEERS AND APPLAUSE.]
Well, that was quite unexpected.
[LAUGHS.]
Now, ladies and gentlemen, as your outgoing chapter president, it is my pleasure to deliver this evening's opening remarks.
I'd like to start by saying this has always been my favorite event of the year.
It's the time when the families of Oak Bluffs come together in celebration of the next generation of stellar young ladies.
Alex dumped you? Our entire marriage, I thought you chose me because you loved me.
And now I found out I'm the consolation prize? Why would she say that to me except to hurt me? I'm with the right woman, Leah.
It doesn't matter how we got here.
It matters to me.
I want her gone.
Now.
And if I have to do it, it won't be pretty.
[CRICKETS CHIRPING.]
"Calvin Chapman was found in his car, shot in the head.
What has Teddy done?" I know the story.
Someone high out of their mind shot him on their front step for serving an eviction notice.
[CELLPHONE CLICKS.]
[RINGING.]
At the tone, please record your message.
Angela, call me back.
I think Teddy's been lying about how my father died.
OLIVIA: You are our blessings.
[APPLAUSE.]
Champagne, please.
Uh, he'll have a water.
[SCOFFS.]
You ready for "Letter to Daughters"? Mm-hmm.
Steady as a rock.
[BOTH LAUGH.]
OLIVIA: Leah Franklin-Dupont.
Oh.
There's your cue to introduce me.
[APPLAUSE.]
Good evening, everyone, and thank you, Olivia, for your decades of service and amazing leadership.
On the night of my debutante ball, my father delivered the "Letter to Daughters".
20 years later, to once again bless us with his wisdom, my father, Mr.
Teddy Franklin.
[APPLAUSE.]
Thank you.
With daughters, a father's role comes with added responsibility.
You are the one she comes to in fear, in confidence, for advice, to lean on at all times.
But fathers sometimes fall short.
Angela Vaughn, my daughter, you deserved better.
I thought grand gestures could sweep away years of inaction.
I hope an apology gives us a real start.
Angela I'm sorry.
And now, our most "Most Congenial" debutante will deliver "Letters to Fathers".
Nicole Vaughn.
My granddaughter.
[APPLAUSE.]
It's alright.
Speak from the heart.
[SIGHS.]
I don't know what it's like to have a father's love, but I was blessed to have three amazing women in my life who made sure I had everything I needed.
Though all the fathers out there deserve their thanks, my "Letter to Fathers" will send some love to all the amazing mothers out there.
Like mine.
That bracelet and that coin They're both family heirlooms.
And I'm still not sure I should have accepted them.
Mm.
Be grateful.
He's not always giving.
Mademoiselle.
Thank you.
May I share a dance with another one of my girls? Leah.
You used your entire speech to apologize to Angela? I want to win her trust.
Public acknowledgement of my missteps could help with that.
What about my public acknowledgement, Daddy? I mean, the hoops I've jumped through covering for you.
Lying to my husband for you.
Keeping your diagnosis a secret.
I mean, I'm the one who supports and protects the great Teddy Franklin.
Not her.
[VOICE BREAKING.]
And then I don't even get a mention in the "Letter to Daughters"? If you want to spend the time you have left with Angela, go ahead.
I guess we'll just share our last moment at your funeral.
No.
[CELLPHONE CLICKS.]
Teddy Franklin.
[BUZZER.]
[CHATTER.]
Robinson.
Let's go.
Crack D-42! [BUZZER, CELL DOOR OPENS.]
Ain't got time for no comments Only adding' paper to the money clip Stack it up to the ceiling So I don't feel a thing when I'm spendin' it I saw what you did for Nikki.
Oh.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
And I have good news for you.
Nate is gonna be released.
- Released? - Mm-hmm.
I spoke with a few of my contacts.
Turns out Nate is part of a database of cases that were under review after all of these social-justice uprisings and is eligible for immediate release due to gross negligence.
He is on his way to the island now.
You know, this is my life.
This is my daughter's life.
You don't get to just make decisions that affect us.
You know, I have offered you everything I could think of to earn your trust, including an apology.
I should be able to do this for you as a father.
One apology doesn't erase years of abandonment.
Neither does a family bracelet or a letter or your connections.
You were never a father to me.
Stop trying to be one now.
He was so smug, so proud of himself.
Like, son, you don't know my life.
He doesn't know what this means for me, for Nikki.
And what about Nate, who's just gonna be dropped into this new world.
I mean, the audacity.
You want a piece of this cake? 'Cause it's good.
Why are you so calm? You trust Teddy Franklin less than I do.
You don't got nothing to say? You don't want to hear what I got to say.
I want to hear what you got to say.
No, you want to see some furniture moving up in this Mickey flick.
Alright, fine.
You want the real-real? This ain't about Teddy.
You just mad because you're gonna have to step in some mess that you made.
You been lying to baby girl about her father for 17 years, and it stops tonight.
You gonna tell her the truth.
Now! Threw away my damn cake.
It's a good damn thing I thought to get me a second slice.
Oh! There you are.
Ha! I noticed you were not in attendance tonight with Angela.
How did my father die? The story you've told me all these years isn't true.
Perhaps I misremembered.
It was a painful loss.
I spent my whole life believing your lie.
Are you accusing me of something? Why the story, when he was found in his car? Because that's where he shot himself in the head.
[BREATHING HEAVILY.]
Your father committed suicide.
Your mother and I made up that story for the insurance company.
We told them that Calvin had been working at the time of his death so that you and your mother would be provided for! That would not have happened if his death had been reported as self-inflicted.
I hate to tell it to you this way, son I'm not your son.
Teddy? Hey.
Hey.
Hey, can I get some help? Somebody?! Teddy.
I heard yelling.
I was supposed to meet Mr.
Franklin.
How can I help you, brother? Help me get him to the hospital.
Call 911.
Tell them we're on the way.
Hey.
Teddy.
Teddy.
I talked to him last week.
I want that exclusive.
- So you need to follow - As much as I want Teddy to pay for what he's done, my marriage comes first.
You have to leave.
Let's go for a little ride.
[SCOFFS.]
Driver.
I never would have answered your call if I'd known I'd be chased out of town by a Dupont again.
What do you mean "again"? 20 years ago, I wasn't your mother's vision of the perfect woman for her perfect son.
Leah was.
Olivia and Teddy made sure that their little prince and princess could get married and create the dynasty that they both dreamed of.
Your mother wrote me a check to get out of town.
You took money to walk away from our marriage? [SIGHS.]
Olivia and Teddy threatened to have my parents deported, Raymond.
I had no choice.
It's a lot of money.
I never cashed it.
I keep it as a reminder that everything I have, I earned myself.
I didn't know.
[CELLPHONE VIBRATING.]
Leah.
Okay, okay, okay.
Calm down.
Calm down, babe.
I'm on my way.
Is everything okay? Teddy had a heart attack.
Take me to Oak Bluffs Hospital.
MAN: Yes, sir.
[LAUGHS.]
I'm too hyped to go to sleep.
I've never had an experience like this, and I-I don't want tonight to end.
Nikki, honey, can you sit down? [SIGHS.]
I don't know how to start.
I gotta tell you something.
Angie.
Piggy, not now.
Tyrique is on the phone.
It's Teddy.
Well, can you at least give us an estimation about how long he's gonna be in surgery? WOMAN: Ma'am, I don't have any information.
- Hey.
- Hey.
What happened? He had a heart attack? They said it's a good thing we brought him in.
An ambulance wouldn't have made it in time.
"We"? NIKKI: Mom, who's that man? Do you know him? Nikki, I I've been trying to tell you any other way than this.
Tell me what? That man is Nate Robinson.
Your father.