A Wicked Muse (2026) Movie Script
1
Welcome home.
Frank? Is everything okay?
Why don't you tell me?
How much have you had to drink?
Not nearly enough.
Your little Mexican boyfriend
came by looking for you.
You probably told him that
I work Fridays, right?
You don't know what the hell
you're talking about, Frank.
Daddy, please don't.
Don't you lie to me, bitch.
Just stop.
Go to your room.
Frank.
Let go of her.
Don't you touch her
You son of... what you've done?
Your own daughter
is afraid of you.
Yes, she better be.
I'm married to a worthless
fucking whore.
Bailey.
Bailey, get back here.
Oscar.
Oscar, I need you.
Oscar.
Oscar, I need you.
Please.
Oscar, please say something.
I'm scared.
Bailey, over here.
Oscar.
Oscar, please stop this.
I'm right here.
Oscar.
Oscar.
Oscar.
I don't know what to do.
You have to help me.
Do you trust me, Bailey?
I do.
Remember, you asked for this.
Daddy.
Why are you running, Bailey?
There's nothing for
you there anymore.
Bailey.
Stay back.
Mommy.
What's wrong, baby?
Don't look.
I didn't mean to.
I didn't mean to.
Michael, Pacey?
That's us.
You must be Luke.
Made some coffee.
Papers are inside.
Unless you'd like to take
a look around first.
There's no need.
I think we're ready to sign.
Hi.
How are you doing?
Good, thank you.
All right.
Show you guys around.
Just initial right here.
I understand it's a big
change moving out here.
We're looking forward
to the quiet.
Perfect setting to get
some writing done.
I don't recall telling
you that I'm a writer.
Sorry, I don't want to make
this awkward, but I'm a fan.
Oh
"Freshman Zayn" had a huge
impact on me in college.
Yeah, I've heard that before.
You may not be able to tell,
but I used to be super shy.
Seeing how Zayn approached
life and the way he could
effortlessly talk to women.
I mean, it was game
changing for me.
So I just sign right here?
I'm pretty sure Mike used a few
of Zayn's lines on me
when we first started dating.
Oh, yeah?
And how about you?
Excuse me?
What kind of work do you do?
Oh, I used to be an ad exec.
Not anymore.
Well, sounds like you're
both ready for a change
of pace. And that forest
out there, is it all ours?
Honestly, property lines
are a bit of a cluster
with neighboring estates,
but basically we've got lots
of land to run around.
We?
Oh, yeah.
I actually live two
doors down from you.
Oh.
Looks like we're all done here.
Welcome to the neighborhood.
Thank you.
You know what?
I can do some digging,
and I can figure out exactly
how far your line goes.
No rush.
It'll give us a chance
to talk about your new book.
I don't really talk
about my work.
You'll just have to buy
a copy like everyone else.
Then maybe I'll swing by to get
my copy signed by the author.
Enjoy.
Here, let me get that.
Hard to believe this is
all ours, isn't it?
It's like a dream.
But not your dream.
I know how much you've
given up for this,
but I really needed it.
You know, if I'm ever
gonna write anything.
Just gonna take some
time to adjust.
It's just really quiet.
Well, if you ever need anyone
to make a little noise.
HEY!!!
I was thinking, once
we've settled into the home
and you start writing,
maybe we can try again.
Really?
That's great.
I'm done grieving.
I'm ready to be a mom.
I'm going to bed.
Are, you sure you
don't want to join me?
I really got to break
this story open.
Otherwise I'll never
get any sleep.
Okay.
Good night.
Your muse is hungry.
She demands sustenance.
Oh, for God's sake.
It's arrogance to think you
can write a great story.
Yeah, you got that right, baby.
Great stories don't come
from great writers.
Great stories are gifted
to the worthy.
And the worthy, the worthy
are willing to sacrifice.
how the hell do
I find my muse?
Your muse is knocking.
All you have to do
is let her in.
Breathe.
Surrender.
Let yourself become a vessel
for her story.
What the hell?
Hey.
It's private property.
Michael.
Hey.
What are you doing here?
No, no, don't go in there.
Hello?
Michael.
No.
I have a story to tell you.
No, please.
Just tell me what
you want, Michael.
What I want?
Tell me.
I want the greatest
fucking story that the world
has ever heard.
And what will you
give me for it?
Anything.
Please tell me you
weren't up all night.
Actually, I dozed
off in my chair.
But this morning I woke up
with some inspiration.
All work and no play.
I don't know.
I think I really
got something here.
Well, don't let me
slow you down.
I'll go grab some coffee.
Hey, coffee can wait.
Want to share what this
brilliant new book is about?
Eh... What?
I don't talk about my
works in progress.
It's bad luck.
Bad luck?
I never knew you to
be superstitious.
It's just when I'm
onto something good, I
get a little excited.
Yeah, I can tell.
When I get excited,
I like to share.
But when I explain it
to people, they're never
as excited as I am.
And then they got all their
little notes and their little
fucking suggestions about
how wonderful it could be.
By the time I'm done talking
to them, I get all pissed
off, which is why I don't
share my ideas with normies,
because when I explain it to
them, it ends up sounding
lame.
And then I forget what
a fucking wonderful idea it
was in the first place.
Are you calling me a normie?
I mean it in the most
complimentary way.
I just don't want to let this
genie out of the bottle.
I got a really good idea
here, and I just don't
want to fuck it up.
I made an appointment
with the, fertility clinic
tomorrow afternoon.
Oh, that's great.
I'm going to need the car.
You need me to come with?
No, don't mind me.
You can just stay here and ride.
Bailey's sleeping.
I don't care if she's sleeping.
Let her hear me.
What?
Bailey, why don't you
come down here?
You shut up.
What kind of fucking
mother are you?
You don't.
Please stop.
I'll do anything
Please just make it stop.
Don't worry, Bailey.
I'm here.
Everything's going to be okay.
Who are you?
I'm Oscar.
I can make it stop.
I can make it stop.
Our Father, who art in
heaven, hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come, thy
will be done on earth
as it is in heaven.
And give us this day
our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses
as we forgive those
who trespass against us.
And lead us not into
temptation, but deliver us
from the evil one.
Bailey.
You probably don't remember me.
It's been a few years.
Of course I remember you, Caleb.
How have you been?
I'm, Good.
It's been a few years
since church youth group.
I just moved back
this week, actually.
You left?
To study computer science.
Wow.
Good memory.
Yeah, I got a job that let's me
work Remotely, so I moved back
to be around my parents more.
Family was always
important to you.
You know, I drove by your
old house last week.
Just sold again.
Looks like someone's moving in.
Really?
So how are things going
with your mom?
She's good.
I just visited her last month.
She's hoping for parole
in the spring.
Well, it's really nice to see
your face in church today.
I'll.
I'll see you next Sunday.
See you later.
Pacey
It's so good to hear your voice.
Is everything okay?
Honestly, the office is such
a shit show since you left.
Nobody knows what they're doing.
Please tell me you hate
New Hampshire and are
coming back to us.
Come on, it can't
be as bad as that.
It's worse.
Braddock completely fucked
the Austrian deal.
What?
That was a slam dunk.
I laid everything out
for him before I left.
Braddock ignored it.
He went rogue and was
making shit up on the fly.
And when they pressed
him for numbers, he.
He just froze.
What a jackass.
It was brutal.
All those weeks
of work prepping, gone.
He should have let you
deliver the numbers.
There's no reasoning with him.
He needs to be the center
of attention.
Well, you gotta learn how
to manage him without bruising
his ego or he will screw things
up every single time.
I always invented tasks just to
keep him away from the client.
That's just it.
We needed Pacey Palmer in that
room to keep Braddock under
control and seal that deal.
Come on, you guys
don't really need me.
You're already a legend around
here among the new hires.
Whenever we run into
a problem, they ask us,
what would Pacey do?
Stop it.
You're teasing me now.
We miss you, Pacey.
Things just aren't
the same without you.
Well, I'm needed even more here.
Things have been really good.
Well, if you ever change
your mind, babe,
the door is always open.
You're a rock star.
Hey, Megan.
I have to run now,
but it's been good catching up.
Later, Pace.
Bye.
I'm not saying it's
impossible, but.
But in my experience,
the chances of you conceiving
aren't good.
Are there any treatments?
I mean, I can't just give up.
Well, there are fertility
treatments, but with the,
complications from your
miscarriage, I don't see
it happening for you.
But there has to be something.
My recommendation is for you
to take some time to adjust.
Maybe a few months.
And then if you still want
to be a parent,
you can look into adoption.
Michael?
Michael.
Michael.
Oh, you are here.
Yeah, I'm just gonna
go take a nap.
Well, you do what you gotta do.
I'll just be down here writing.
fuck!
You've come back.
I really need to
finish my story.
I'll give you anything you want.
I want.
Michael, are you.
Oh, sorry.
I didn't mean to
creep up on you.
What are you doing up?
There's somebody out there.
A girl.
Are you sure?
I don't see anyone out there.
Oh.
What happened?
Oh, it's a bit
of a can opener accident.
I'm such an idiot.
Hey, are you all right?
I didn't want to bother you
while you were writing.
I know how much you're
going through.
It's okay.
You can talk to me.
Well, I went to
the doctor today.
It's not looking good.
Did you talk to them
about the carrots?
Sorry, what was that?
The carrots.
You got rid of them.
I know you don't like them, so
I made sure to tell Spencer.
No carrots.
Oh, carrots.
They used to be different.
Used to be bursting with flavor.
Nowadays, they just
taste like cardboard.
Don't know what the hell
they're doing with them.
Well, if you ever find another
carrot on your plate, I want
you to call me right away.
They'll have to deal with me.
I knew your dad when
he was a young boy.
I ever tell you?
No, I don't think you did.
Nice, polite boy.
Little quiet.
He used to mow my lawn when
he was in grade school.
Wow.
I had no idea.
That's before he got in
with that other crowd.
Pack of little shit disturbers.
Halloween, around 82, he and his
friends decide they're going to
have some fun slashing tires.
Whoa.
Little assholes.
He got about two feet away
from my Buick and I chased him
away with my baseball bat.
I was so furious.
I said to my wife, Catherine,
nothing good is ever going
to come out of that boy.
How wrong I was.
He always knew how
to make me laugh.
When he married your mom,
I was so hopeful.
I mean, that their
luck would change.
How about I get started
on the rest of dinner?
But that old farm.
Both of them changed.
Mr. Cashley.
Nothing good
ever came out of that place.
You could fix it up,
you could throw some paint
on it, but that place.
I know.
I know you know.
Listen to me going on.
No one needs to tell
you a damn thing.
How about get started
on dessert?
Avast, ye scoundrel.
I demand ye face me
a duel? To the death!
En guard!
You got me.
Woe is me.
I feel safe with you.
Not like with my parents.
You're allowed to
hate them, you know.
You're allowed to hate them.
Heavenly Father,
I repent all sin.
The sin of wrath, the sin
of anger, the sin of vengeance.
Excuse me.
Can I help you?
I'm sorry.
Is this your property?
It is.
May I ask you what
you're doing here?
Hi.
I'm Bailey.
I used to live here
as a little girl.
Oh.
I guess all the memories
aren't good ones.
I see.
I guess I'm just trying
to make my peace with it.
I'm sorry for the intrusion.
So you're still not gonna
tell me about your story?
Stop stirring up shit.
Come on, babe.
Just a hint.
Okay.
It's about a girl
who wants everything.
Ooh.
I, like it already.
But she doesn't
know when to stop.
And through the events
of the story, she learns
a valuable lesson.
Actually, she doesn't
learn a damn thing.
I'm going to Texas.
I'm leaving soon
I'm going to Texas.
I'm bending a spoon
I'm going to Texas.
Hello?
Hello?
Are you here all by yourself?
No, I'm here with you.
What, are you doing here?
Where else would I be?
Oh, honey, I.
I think you're lost.
What's your name?
It's Dakota, silly.
Well, that's a beautiful
name, Dakota.
Of course it is.
You gave it to me.
What are you talking about?
You gave me my name.
Mommy.
No!
Baby, you all right?
I think it's just
an intense dream.
Oh, yeah?
Well, if someone ever gives you
a hard time in one of your
dreams again, just let me know.
I'll kick his ass.
Maya was not inclined
to vengeful deeds.
Maya, was not inclined
to vengeance.
Predisposed.
Maya, was not predisposed.
Nobody's gonna give a fuck
what Maya is predisposed
to because nobody is gonna read
this mealy mouthed crap.
Fuck.
When can you come visit Bay?
Next Friday, for sure.
God, I miss you.
You get a chance to read
that stuff I left you?
Honestly, Bay, I just can't.
Half the girls on my cell
block are Christians.
It's enough already.
Mom, I'm, Afraid it's
only a few pages.
Look, you need to get
on with your life.
Meet some boys and maybe
have a little fun while
you're still young.
That stuff that happened
to daddy, it's not over.
Hey, listen.
I'm the one that
killed your daddy.
It was me, not some devil
in the cornfield.
Now just put all
this nonsense away.
I may be locked up, but there
is no need for you to be.
Okay, mom.
Now get some sleep.
I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Love you, Bay.
Love you, too.
Bye.
Take it easy.
Hey, man.
Can I get you anything?
As a matter of fact, barkeep,
I think you can.
What'll it be?
a pint of Steiner?
Steiner's?
Oh, shit.
Sorry.
Sometimes I forget I'm not
in the city anymore.
I'll have A, pint of whatever
swill the locals are drinking.
I'll have whatever he's having.
That'll be a, pint of Beechers.
Beechers?
Holy crap.
I didn't even know they
made that shit anymore.
Would you like
something else then?
No, no, no, no, no.
Beechers is fine.
It's perfect, actually,
for a place like this.
You know, there's plenty
of other bars to drink in if
you don't like it here.
This ain't got nothing
to do with you, pal.
Well, I think it does.
Look, why don't you just relax?
I'm just having a nice, quiet
beer by myself, all right?
You don't tell me to relax.
Look, I don't want any trouble
Yeah, too late.
Evan.
Look, you don't like
our beer, why don't you
just go across the street
to Murray's and get him to
pour you a pint of whatever
New York pussy swill you
drink?
Look, I think we got off
on the wrong foot.
Why don't I just buy you a beer?
I buy my own beer
Soy boy.
Take it easy.
Take it easy.
I'm not just.
Whoa.
Evan, Evan, Evan.
What?
This guy ain't worth it.
Trust me.
This guy a friend of yours?
This prick?
Yeah, you could say that.
Mike's new in town, a kind
of fish out of water.
Let's just cut him
a break. Okay.
For you.
Hey, no hard feelings,
I'll take a pint of Beechers
on my newfound friend here.
Actually, make that two.
I'll take him in back, Lloyd.
Sounds good.
See you later, kid.
Lloyd.
How the fuck did you do that?
I got his mom a sweet
deal on a townhouse.
I owe you a drink.
That's the least I can do.
Hey, Lloyd.
Another one.
So how's the house treating you?
Oh, a little peace and quiet is
just what the doctor ordered.
So your book is coming
together, then?
You're a pugnacious little
pecker, aren't you?
Hey, you gotta be a persistent
pecker in my profession.
Cheers.
You know, all in all,
this place isn't too bad.
It gets pretty lively.
These sleepy towns need a place
to let loose, you know.
Your first time here?
Yeah, I've been, chained
to the desk the last
three weeks, you know.
So the story's coming
together, then?
I don't know, man.
Freshman Zane changed my life,
made me a household name.
But that was 15 years ago,
and everything
I've published since then
hasn't amounted to shit.
You're kidding.
I love Moonlight.
Epoch it took some real risks.
The way it shifted
narrative style.
Oh, fuck off.
It was terrible.
My fans hated it,
critics hated it.
Hell, even I knew it
was a piece of shit before
it hit the press.
I get it.
I get it.
Freshman Zane was so fucking
great and everybody just wanted
the next story to measure up.
But, you know, then I started
to think maybe I only
got one good story in me.
You're right.
I wanted to love it.
But it didn't measure up
But this new book.
This is like nothing
I've ever written before.
You think this is gonna
measure up to Zane?
I'm saying it's gonna be better.
Better than Freshman Zane?
Oh, man, you can't leave
me hanging like this.
Give me details.
I told you, I don't fucking talk
about my works in progress.
Holy cow.
I can't believe this.
So what about you?
Sell any more murder
homes lately?
Ha, ha.
You really got a good deal
on that property.
But to be fair,
that murder was 12 years ago.
But it's not the only story.
What?
It's probably just a rumor
but the locals talk about
another violent happening
there back in the 50s.
I don't have many details, but I
could do some digging if you.
No, no, no, no,
no, please don't.
I can't have Pacey running
around scared shitless.
It's the last thing she needs.
She's got too much on her plate.
Wait, wait.
You mean you never told your
wife about the murder?
It was all laid out in
the disclosure documents. Luke!
Well, I certainly wouldn't
want to upset Pacey.
Why don't you tell me a little
bit about this new book
of yours. You know, you're
a lot slimier than I gave
you credit for. This book.
It's nothing like Freshman Zane.
It's not like anything
I've ever written before.
Female protagonist.
Whoa, whoa.
Okay, that's new ground
for a Michael Palmer book.
And it has none of the sunny
optimism of Freshman Zane.
This one is dark,
sensual, opulent.
Okay, so what's it about?
It's about hatred, envy, lust.
I got chills.
So, what's the premise?
You know, I think I gotta
call Pacey right now.
She told me to call.
No, no, Michael, you
gotta be kidding me.
This discussion isn't over.
Tell me about the book.
And when she gets to Panama,
she discovers the house she
purchased never even existed.
So Hector scammed her?
No, not Hector, actually.
Wait a second.
I'm not telling you any more
of my fucking story.
All right?
No more questions.
Sorry.
You know, I've dabbled
in writing, too.
Going way back to my
grade school days.
No kidding?
Yeah.
I've written some short
stories and even a play,
but never a novel, though.
I have an idea.
You should go for it.
Really?
Yeah.
Takes courage to write.
There's.
The first thing you write is
always going to be shit.
But you gotta get past
that if you're ever gonna
write anything great.
And that.
That takes balls.
You see, most people
can't handle criticism
and they just quit.
Wow.
You're right.
So the first thing
you wrote sucked.
No, it was great.
Because I'm,
Michael fucking Palmer.
I had this crazy idea
maybe after this we could.
Michael, please.
Don't.
No.
What?
Michael, are you all right?
I, Yeah.
Yeah, I'm fine.
You look like
something spooked you.
Are you sure?
Said I'm fine, I just
gotta get the out of here.
Just relax, Michael.
You're gonna get some sleep
and then you're
gonna finish your book.
That's all you gotta do.
Michael?
Pacey, what are you doing here?
Come join me.
I'm starting to think that you
don't have it in you, Mike.
What?
How the fuck can you say that to me?
Are you really the right
Man for the job?
I can do this.
I'm so close.
Sometimes I think your
heart is just not in it.
Pacey.
Michael, what are you
doing in the tub?
What happened?
I just had a bad dream.
Yeah, that can happen
after going on a bender
And you sleep one
off in the tub.
Yeah.
I think I must have fallen
in the tub when I.
You know, this isn't
the most comfortable place
to spend the night.
You know, there's a nice soft
bed just upstairs and you're
more than welcome to join me.
I'll be right behind you.
Pacey.
Yeah?
I love you.
Michael! How's my favorite fucking
client since one of my.
Your favorite client, Barry.
Wow.
Okay.
It's very hurtful, Michael.
Agents have hearts
too, you know.
All right. The last time we
talked, you said, and I quote,
don't ever call me again unless
you have something I can sell.
Yeah, I did say that.
I did.
But I said it out, of love.
It's called motivation, baby.
So.
So I sent you 113 pages.
Yeah, you did.
And you read it.
I read it, read it twice,
read it a third time sitting
on my little toilet.
I need to hear you
say it, Barry.
Hear me say, okay.
Well, it's the best fucking shit
you've ever sent me, Michael.
You happy?
I know it's my best work.
But it's so much more
than that, isn't it?
Good fucking God.
Okay?
It's genius, Mike.
It's fucking brilliant.
You're the Jesus
of writing, and I'm a little
peasant boy that goes
and fetches you water.
Okay?
You happy?
It's a start.
Jesus fucking Christ.
You writers are the most fragile
fucking egos in everyone.
And I'm talking about
fucking actors, too.
Now listen up.
Let's talk some business.
Now, right now, our little
love fest is over.
Fine.
Right.
So what you sent me was great.
It's fucking amazing.
I love it.
It's not enough.
I need at least 300 pages.
At least.
I'm giving you 400.
Incredible.
Fucking great.
I can sell that, no
fucking problem.
Okay, now one more thing.
And listen up, because I'm
not fucking around this time.
Okay?
Don't take this the wrong
way, because I know you
people are like delicate
little baby flowers.
You people.
I mean, writers.
Michael.
Jesus
Christ, shut up and pay
attention to me, okay?
Out with it
Barry.
I need an ending, Michael.
What?
I need a real ending, okay?
Cause what you've given
me so far,
it's a brilliant fucking setup.
It's got me fucking
hard as a rock.
Okay?
This fucking hard?
This fucking hard.
I'm like a sweet virgin who's
been promised the best
fucking night of her life.
Barry, if you're trying to make
some kind of an analogy, can
you hurry it along, please?
Okay, you writers are all set up
abd no delivery, okay?
So I'm not gonna be able
to sell this unless you give
me an ending that's gonna
make my little toes curl.
Okay?
I got your ending, Barry.
It's right up here.
You're just gonna have
to wait for it.
We're gonna make a lot
of money, baby.
I love you.
Now get back to work.
Whoa.
Hey, mom, can I get this?
It's only $6.
Sure, honey.
Looks like fun.
I'm sorry, I don't mean to.
Overhear
Yes.
That toy board your son wants.
I don't think it's a good idea.
Excuse me?
It's a Ouija board.
I mean, most people aren't
aware of the dangers,
but I appreciate your concern,
but frankly, it's none
of your business what
I buy from my child.
So you're okay with your child
talking to literal demons?
My name is Tucker.
Oh, my God.
Are you seriously one
of those born again nutcases?
Stop thumping your Bible
and take your meds.
Who do you think he's going
to be talking to?
On that board, crazy lady.
It's a game.
I used to play it all
the time as a kid.
Why does that not surprise me?
You know, it's wackos like you
who are okay with kids shooting
guns, but get freaked out
over a piece of cardboard.
Okay, I'm sorry if I came
off as rude, but if you just
listened for a minute.
That is not a toy, and your
son's gonna be in real danger.
Well, I didn't ask
for your opinion.
Now why don't you go
to the abortion clinic
and protest like the rest
of those Jesus freaks?
Can you believe that?
You need to keep your
son away from that
satanic piece of shit.
I'm, buying it, and you can't
do a damn thing to stop me.
Whatever. Psycho bitch.
What the hell are you doing?
Actually, I decided that I'm
gonna buy this for myself.
Hey, mom, she took my.
No one can mess with that
piece of crap again.
Okay.
Oh, what's that?
What?
No.
You got something?
What?
No, no.
Sorry.
It's like.
It's right back here.
It's like.
No.
Oh, shit.
Where did you get that?
I got it from some teenagers
up to no good.
You're such a badass.
Yeah, but you like the bad boys.
You know, one of those kids
actually thought I was a cop.
I don't blame them.
Seriously, I'm not a narc!
Pass it down.
That's it.
That's the shit.
This place is changing me.
Changing you how?
Changing me for the better.
I mean, it's like
making me more myself.
Far out.
Listen, though, I know you
know what I'm talking about.
This place is different.
No, I know.
I know exactly what you mean.
And when it comes to my
writing, that's when
the words start to flow.
It's almost like someone else
is doing the writing for me.
Isn't that fucking crazy?
So you're saying your
writing got better because
of this place?
You can have whatever
you want, Pacey.
You just got to tune in
to the right frequency.
Okay, I will.
Cool.
Mommy.
Dakota.
Mommy.
You came for me.
Mommy.
What's wrong, baby?
Are you hurt?
I'm scared.
Don't leave me.
Mommy.
I'm almost home.
I need you. baby.
Mommy, please.
It's okay.
It's okay.
It's okay.
I got you.
I got you.
I got you.
I got you.
It's okay.
It's okay.
You probably think I'm crazy.
You're not crazy.
You're just scared.
I was scared at first,
too, but that's because
I was fighting It.
You just gotta trust that
what's happening to you
is something good.
Good?
What do you mean good?
Sounds crazy coming out
of my own mouth.
But, Things just got better for
me when I stopped questioning
it, and I let it in.
Okay.
Mommy.
It's mommy.
Mommy.
Don't be afraid.
I'm ready.
I'm ready to be your mom.
Dakota.
Mommy. I'm afraid.
Mommy, please take me home.
Things just got better
when I stop questioning it
and let it in.
Pacey.
Michael.
Pacey.
How did you?
What are you doing up?
I missed you.
What?
You were right.
That was right
about
Hey, sporty.
Sporty?
No one's called me that
since we were little.
You used to kick everyone's
butt at ping pong.
You definitely were
the jock in church youth group.
And you were the brains.
I was just swinging by
to return this book that I
borrowed from Pastor Sam.
I didn't expect to see you here.
Yeah, I was just asking
for a little help.
Yeah, well, you're definitely
in the right place.
Is there anything you
want me to pray for?
Just strength.
Got it.
Hey, so I'm having a little
get together at my
house tomorrow night.
Nothing huge, just
a few friends.
I'd love it if you
came as my guest.
Bailey.
Caleb.
That sounds nice. But? I'll just
see you at church on Sunday.
Okay.
Hello?
Mikey boy.
Mikey boy.
What's happening, buddy?
To what do I owe,
this distinct pleasure, oh
beloved agent of mine?
Okay, I'm going to cut
to the chase, Michael.
You always do.
Yeah.
So these new pages
you sent me, they are fine.
They're fine.
But.
But they're kind of feeding
into this incessant paranoia
that I already have about you.
Because I know you.
I know you like a father
and like a son, and I know you
don't have a fucking ending
to this fucking story.
Barry, come on.
I see where the plot
is going, all right?
You're asking 100 million
intriguing fucking questions
that we're all dying
to know the fucking answer to,
but you're gonna give me
a bullshit fucking ending.
You want me to spoil the ending?
Cause I can do that.
I can tell you the fucking
ending right now, Barry.
No, I do not want
you to do that.
Please do not do that.
Then what do you want?
I want you to promise me
you can give me an ending
that I can fucking sell, okay?
Because I cannot
sell this unless.
Fuck off, Barry.
I got writing to do.
And don't call me again
unless you actually
got something to say.
Asshole.
I really need a Fucking ending.
The ending is right
here, Michael.
Where?
Right, here.
I'm just here to help
you set it free.
I'm just not convinced you want
it badly enough, Michael.
I do.
Then give me what I want.
Hello?
Luke.
Yeah, everything's fine.
Yeah, that sounds cool.
Why don't you head
over right now?
So that's actually good news
for the two of you.
That is that.
Well, yeah, it means the entire
length of the creek
passes through your property.
I was under the impression
it was part
of the neighboring estate.
Well, that's cool.
I got a creek.
You know, I actually went
through these woods,
and I didn't know there
was any creek at all.
It's just past the
Again.
So, you mentioned some bad
memories here in this house.
Growing up, my parents
fought a lot so I would
escape into the corn.
It's the only place
that I felt safe.
I'm sorry.
It's okay.
I'm not here to talk
about my past trauma.
I've been delivered
from all of that.
I'm here for you.
For me?
Hey, babe.
I just thought.
Oh, sorry.
I didn't realize
you had company.
Michael, this is Bailey.
She used to live here
in this house.
Long, long time ago.
Pleasure to meet you, Bailey.
Likewise.
It's a very lovely home.
Well, I'll stop bothering
the two of you.
I got, some writing to do.
Of course.
He's writing a novel.
Oh, that's so exciting.
So you had something to tell me?
This place. Have you noticed
anything unsettling?
What do you mean?
Okay, so why don't you just
come out with it then?
Don't indulge it.
He will promise you everything,
but it's just not worth it.
He?
Who's he?
Or she?
It can appear as anything.
Okay?
You just can't believe his lies.
I'm sorry, Bailey.
I don't know what
you're talking about.
He appeared to me
as a young boy in the corn.
Right out there.
He became my friend.
And when my parents would
fight, he told me he
could make it all stop.
A young boy told you
he could stop your parents
from fighting?
He called himself Oscar.
He appeared to me as a young
boy, but he could appear
to you as anything.
Whatever you deeply desire.
So you're saying that this
is some kind of supernatural
being in the cornfield?
James 4:7.
"So submit yourselves,
then to God.
Resist the devil, and he
will flee from you."
Okay.
Please, Bailey, I'm,
really not religious.
Just don't give him
a foothold, okay?
He will promise you the world.
But he's the father of all lies.
I'm agnostic.
I don't want to offend you
or anything, but I'm not
comfortable with this.
One day it got really,
really bad, and I ran out
to go find him, and I begged
him to make it stop.
And my mom took a knife,
and she just.
Dear God.
God had nothing to do with this.
I actually think I'm gonna
get started on dinner now.
You'll be joining us, Bailey?
Actually, I think I
better get going.
So soon?
Here's my address just in case
you want to stop by and, you
know, talk about anything.
Thank you.
I will.
Honey, do you
have a moment?
Yeah, sure.
What's up?
I just did a pregnancy test.
Okay.
I'm pregnant.
What?
God.
Oh, my God.
Pacey
you need to get some rest.
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa,
whoa, whoa, whoa.
Pacey, it's all right.
It's all right.
Calm down.
Calm down.
It's okay.
I'm here.
I'm here.
I'm here.
What happened?
I couldn't.
I couldn't move.
And he's.
What?
I just need to get out of here.
This place, it's.
It's too much.
This place.
This place is fine.
You just had a dream, all right?
I promise everything's
gonna be okay.
You gonna stay awake with me?
Of course I will.
Come on.
I can't believe it.
You're pregnant.
I know I am.
Not wrong very often, but I'm
really glad I am this time.
I.
I can't explain it, but I guess
it doesn't matter now, does it?
No.
I'm going to prescribe a few
prenatal meds just to be safe.
I've been having some
sleep issues.
Okay.
I wake and I can't move.
I see things and I hear.
Sounds like classic
sleep paralysis.
It's nothing to worry about.
I mean, I can't move.
And the things that
I see, it's beyond.
That's normal.
There's been a lot of research
on the topic.
The things that you think
you're seeing are akin
to a waking dream.
But why is this happening.
Happening to me now?
A lot of things can
trigger sleep paralysis.
Stress, your recent move,
even your pregnancy.
I'm going to prescribe
a sleep aid for you as well.
Fuck off, Barry.
Fuck it.
Michael, I need an ending.
Where's my ending?
Michael.
Hey, babe.
Oh, hey.
You look exhausted.
How'd it go?
Everything's great.
I just need to rest
and take it easy.
That should be your only
priority right now, okay?
She gave me something
to help me sleep.
I think I'm just gonna
take a few of these and pass
out for the night.
I'm exhausted.
Well, you don't have
to worry about me at all.
I'm probably gonna be
up all night writing anyway.
Really?
I was getting worried about you.
The story's coming back?
Well, it sure is. Something fierce.
Michael.
Hey, Bailey.
Look, I'm really sorry to bother
you about this, but it's Pacey.
She's.
She's inconsolable and she says
she really needs your help.
What's going on?
She's been having these
episodes lately where
she sees things late at night.
I don't know.
I've been saying that maybe it's
just stress, but it's only
getting more and more intense.
And then I woke up last
night and she was gone.
And I found her running around
the cornfield in a panic.
The cornfield?
It's all so stupid.
And she refuses to see
a doctor about it.
Where's she now?
She's at home.
But she sensed that you're
the only one who can help her.
I'm just gonna go
check on Pacey.
I'll, be right back.
Pacey's gone.
What?
She's gone.
I don't know.
I guess she ran out again.
I gotta go find her.
Pacey?
Pacey, you out here?
I think I'm gonna go
check out the woods.
Listen, you should hang
back here in case Pacey
comes back to the house.
alright?
The girl, she's here.
You promised me an ending.
I did.
My ending.
I need it.
The accountant, the one
staying in the chalet.
What about him?
He loses all his money
to his sister.
His sister?
She's not even.
His sister is the one
who killed Lucas.
Oh, that's perfect.
I can't believe I missed it.
It's logical, and the audience
will never see it coming.
But how do I resolve.
Shut up
I want the girl.
Heavenly
Father, please pour out your
spirit and rescue your daughter
Pacey from this nightmare.
I know she's not
a believer, but please.
Bailey.
Bailey, you have
to get out of here.
Bailey.
Go.
Bailey.
No.
Please, just hear me out.
I won't hurt you.
Just leave her alone.
Leave who alone?
Pacey, just.
Just leave her.
Pacey is safe.
It's you that I want.
It's always been you.
Just stay away from me.
Why did you run away
from me, Bailey?
Your awful parents, they.
I never understood
you the way I did.
Stop.
Please, just stop.
Oh, I made it stop.
But you.
You promised me.
You'd Stay.
You have no claim on me.
Oh, but I do have a claim
on you, Bailey.
You made me a promise, remember?
You swore it.
No.
It was a blood oath.
I have broken all
bonds and oaths.
Through the blood of Jesus
Christ, I command you to leave.
Who are you to command me?
I have broken all
bonds and oaths.
Through the blood of Jesus
Christ, I command you to leave.
You think just by shouting his
name I'm gonna run and flee?
I know his name.
And he knows mine.
In the name of.
Of Jesus Christ,
I command you to leave.
In the name of Jesus Christ,
I command you to leave.
In the name of Jesus Christ.
Michael.
Good.
Now kill her.
I can't.
Yes, you can.
Michael.
Do this for me, and I'll
give you 20 more books.
Each one better than the last.
Michael.
Michael, what are you doing?
Pacey, just go back
inside, okay?
I've got this.
Just turn around
and go back inside, okay?
Michael.
Just put it down.
Pacey.
Don't act like you're
all innocent in this.
You know exactly
what's going on.
You felt it, too.
His power.
It's magnificent.
Michael, just put it away.
You can stop this.
I could.
But I won't.
I've come too far.
And so have you.
we've got to be strong right now.
We're so close.
But not this!
We can't.
What about our child,
What about my book?
I can take it all away, Michael.
Your book?
All your success.
I can take away your perfect
little innocent child.
No.
He lies.
He can't create life,
only destroy it.
I'm gonna end this once
and for all, okay?
For both of us.
Pacey, just walk away.
I don't want you to see this.
The child in you is from God.
It's not from him.
I'm sorry.
There he is, Mr.
New York Times bestseller.
Hi, Barry.
Hey gorgeous.
You know what?
I'm glad you're here.
You're gonna want
to hear this, too.
How was the meeting?
Meetings, Michael.
Multiple meetings.
Okay?
Meetings.
Which means multiple offers.
So it's a bidding war
for the movie rights
people on all sides of me.
Bloodbath, okay?
I'm covered in blood.
But you know what?
I don't mind.
Because you know what it means?
It means big money
for you, Michael.
Big fucking money.
Big money for all of us.
You mean Mr.
And Mrs.
Palmer?
We going to Hollywood, baby.
I'll send you all
the details tonight.
Don't worry about that shit
But for right now, as your
agent, I'm ordering you you
to pop that goddamn champagne
and celebrate with that
beautiful wife of yours.
Okay.
Thanks, Barry
Catch you guys later.
It's, my turn to
look after Dakota.
Stay.
I go.
I'm going to Texas I'm leaving
soon I'm going to Texas I'm
bending a spin I'm going to
Texas I'm going to Texas I'm
going to Houston she'll meet
me there I'm going to Houston
Forget with all my cares I'm
going to Texas I'm going to
Texas.
Sam.
I.
Welcome home.
Frank? Is everything okay?
Why don't you tell me?
How much have you had to drink?
Not nearly enough.
Your little Mexican boyfriend
came by looking for you.
You probably told him that
I work Fridays, right?
You don't know what the hell
you're talking about, Frank.
Daddy, please don't.
Don't you lie to me, bitch.
Just stop.
Go to your room.
Frank.
Let go of her.
Don't you touch her
You son of... what you've done?
Your own daughter
is afraid of you.
Yes, she better be.
I'm married to a worthless
fucking whore.
Bailey.
Bailey, get back here.
Oscar.
Oscar, I need you.
Oscar.
Oscar, I need you.
Please.
Oscar, please say something.
I'm scared.
Bailey, over here.
Oscar.
Oscar, please stop this.
I'm right here.
Oscar.
Oscar.
Oscar.
I don't know what to do.
You have to help me.
Do you trust me, Bailey?
I do.
Remember, you asked for this.
Daddy.
Why are you running, Bailey?
There's nothing for
you there anymore.
Bailey.
Stay back.
Mommy.
What's wrong, baby?
Don't look.
I didn't mean to.
I didn't mean to.
Michael, Pacey?
That's us.
You must be Luke.
Made some coffee.
Papers are inside.
Unless you'd like to take
a look around first.
There's no need.
I think we're ready to sign.
Hi.
How are you doing?
Good, thank you.
All right.
Show you guys around.
Just initial right here.
I understand it's a big
change moving out here.
We're looking forward
to the quiet.
Perfect setting to get
some writing done.
I don't recall telling
you that I'm a writer.
Sorry, I don't want to make
this awkward, but I'm a fan.
Oh
"Freshman Zayn" had a huge
impact on me in college.
Yeah, I've heard that before.
You may not be able to tell,
but I used to be super shy.
Seeing how Zayn approached
life and the way he could
effortlessly talk to women.
I mean, it was game
changing for me.
So I just sign right here?
I'm pretty sure Mike used a few
of Zayn's lines on me
when we first started dating.
Oh, yeah?
And how about you?
Excuse me?
What kind of work do you do?
Oh, I used to be an ad exec.
Not anymore.
Well, sounds like you're
both ready for a change
of pace. And that forest
out there, is it all ours?
Honestly, property lines
are a bit of a cluster
with neighboring estates,
but basically we've got lots
of land to run around.
We?
Oh, yeah.
I actually live two
doors down from you.
Oh.
Looks like we're all done here.
Welcome to the neighborhood.
Thank you.
You know what?
I can do some digging,
and I can figure out exactly
how far your line goes.
No rush.
It'll give us a chance
to talk about your new book.
I don't really talk
about my work.
You'll just have to buy
a copy like everyone else.
Then maybe I'll swing by to get
my copy signed by the author.
Enjoy.
Here, let me get that.
Hard to believe this is
all ours, isn't it?
It's like a dream.
But not your dream.
I know how much you've
given up for this,
but I really needed it.
You know, if I'm ever
gonna write anything.
Just gonna take some
time to adjust.
It's just really quiet.
Well, if you ever need anyone
to make a little noise.
HEY!!!
I was thinking, once
we've settled into the home
and you start writing,
maybe we can try again.
Really?
That's great.
I'm done grieving.
I'm ready to be a mom.
I'm going to bed.
Are, you sure you
don't want to join me?
I really got to break
this story open.
Otherwise I'll never
get any sleep.
Okay.
Good night.
Your muse is hungry.
She demands sustenance.
Oh, for God's sake.
It's arrogance to think you
can write a great story.
Yeah, you got that right, baby.
Great stories don't come
from great writers.
Great stories are gifted
to the worthy.
And the worthy, the worthy
are willing to sacrifice.
how the hell do
I find my muse?
Your muse is knocking.
All you have to do
is let her in.
Breathe.
Surrender.
Let yourself become a vessel
for her story.
What the hell?
Hey.
It's private property.
Michael.
Hey.
What are you doing here?
No, no, don't go in there.
Hello?
Michael.
No.
I have a story to tell you.
No, please.
Just tell me what
you want, Michael.
What I want?
Tell me.
I want the greatest
fucking story that the world
has ever heard.
And what will you
give me for it?
Anything.
Please tell me you
weren't up all night.
Actually, I dozed
off in my chair.
But this morning I woke up
with some inspiration.
All work and no play.
I don't know.
I think I really
got something here.
Well, don't let me
slow you down.
I'll go grab some coffee.
Hey, coffee can wait.
Want to share what this
brilliant new book is about?
Eh... What?
I don't talk about my
works in progress.
It's bad luck.
Bad luck?
I never knew you to
be superstitious.
It's just when I'm
onto something good, I
get a little excited.
Yeah, I can tell.
When I get excited,
I like to share.
But when I explain it
to people, they're never
as excited as I am.
And then they got all their
little notes and their little
fucking suggestions about
how wonderful it could be.
By the time I'm done talking
to them, I get all pissed
off, which is why I don't
share my ideas with normies,
because when I explain it to
them, it ends up sounding
lame.
And then I forget what
a fucking wonderful idea it
was in the first place.
Are you calling me a normie?
I mean it in the most
complimentary way.
I just don't want to let this
genie out of the bottle.
I got a really good idea
here, and I just don't
want to fuck it up.
I made an appointment
with the, fertility clinic
tomorrow afternoon.
Oh, that's great.
I'm going to need the car.
You need me to come with?
No, don't mind me.
You can just stay here and ride.
Bailey's sleeping.
I don't care if she's sleeping.
Let her hear me.
What?
Bailey, why don't you
come down here?
You shut up.
What kind of fucking
mother are you?
You don't.
Please stop.
I'll do anything
Please just make it stop.
Don't worry, Bailey.
I'm here.
Everything's going to be okay.
Who are you?
I'm Oscar.
I can make it stop.
I can make it stop.
Our Father, who art in
heaven, hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come, thy
will be done on earth
as it is in heaven.
And give us this day
our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses
as we forgive those
who trespass against us.
And lead us not into
temptation, but deliver us
from the evil one.
Bailey.
You probably don't remember me.
It's been a few years.
Of course I remember you, Caleb.
How have you been?
I'm, Good.
It's been a few years
since church youth group.
I just moved back
this week, actually.
You left?
To study computer science.
Wow.
Good memory.
Yeah, I got a job that let's me
work Remotely, so I moved back
to be around my parents more.
Family was always
important to you.
You know, I drove by your
old house last week.
Just sold again.
Looks like someone's moving in.
Really?
So how are things going
with your mom?
She's good.
I just visited her last month.
She's hoping for parole
in the spring.
Well, it's really nice to see
your face in church today.
I'll.
I'll see you next Sunday.
See you later.
Pacey
It's so good to hear your voice.
Is everything okay?
Honestly, the office is such
a shit show since you left.
Nobody knows what they're doing.
Please tell me you hate
New Hampshire and are
coming back to us.
Come on, it can't
be as bad as that.
It's worse.
Braddock completely fucked
the Austrian deal.
What?
That was a slam dunk.
I laid everything out
for him before I left.
Braddock ignored it.
He went rogue and was
making shit up on the fly.
And when they pressed
him for numbers, he.
He just froze.
What a jackass.
It was brutal.
All those weeks
of work prepping, gone.
He should have let you
deliver the numbers.
There's no reasoning with him.
He needs to be the center
of attention.
Well, you gotta learn how
to manage him without bruising
his ego or he will screw things
up every single time.
I always invented tasks just to
keep him away from the client.
That's just it.
We needed Pacey Palmer in that
room to keep Braddock under
control and seal that deal.
Come on, you guys
don't really need me.
You're already a legend around
here among the new hires.
Whenever we run into
a problem, they ask us,
what would Pacey do?
Stop it.
You're teasing me now.
We miss you, Pacey.
Things just aren't
the same without you.
Well, I'm needed even more here.
Things have been really good.
Well, if you ever change
your mind, babe,
the door is always open.
You're a rock star.
Hey, Megan.
I have to run now,
but it's been good catching up.
Later, Pace.
Bye.
I'm not saying it's
impossible, but.
But in my experience,
the chances of you conceiving
aren't good.
Are there any treatments?
I mean, I can't just give up.
Well, there are fertility
treatments, but with the,
complications from your
miscarriage, I don't see
it happening for you.
But there has to be something.
My recommendation is for you
to take some time to adjust.
Maybe a few months.
And then if you still want
to be a parent,
you can look into adoption.
Michael?
Michael.
Michael.
Oh, you are here.
Yeah, I'm just gonna
go take a nap.
Well, you do what you gotta do.
I'll just be down here writing.
fuck!
You've come back.
I really need to
finish my story.
I'll give you anything you want.
I want.
Michael, are you.
Oh, sorry.
I didn't mean to
creep up on you.
What are you doing up?
There's somebody out there.
A girl.
Are you sure?
I don't see anyone out there.
Oh.
What happened?
Oh, it's a bit
of a can opener accident.
I'm such an idiot.
Hey, are you all right?
I didn't want to bother you
while you were writing.
I know how much you're
going through.
It's okay.
You can talk to me.
Well, I went to
the doctor today.
It's not looking good.
Did you talk to them
about the carrots?
Sorry, what was that?
The carrots.
You got rid of them.
I know you don't like them, so
I made sure to tell Spencer.
No carrots.
Oh, carrots.
They used to be different.
Used to be bursting with flavor.
Nowadays, they just
taste like cardboard.
Don't know what the hell
they're doing with them.
Well, if you ever find another
carrot on your plate, I want
you to call me right away.
They'll have to deal with me.
I knew your dad when
he was a young boy.
I ever tell you?
No, I don't think you did.
Nice, polite boy.
Little quiet.
He used to mow my lawn when
he was in grade school.
Wow.
I had no idea.
That's before he got in
with that other crowd.
Pack of little shit disturbers.
Halloween, around 82, he and his
friends decide they're going to
have some fun slashing tires.
Whoa.
Little assholes.
He got about two feet away
from my Buick and I chased him
away with my baseball bat.
I was so furious.
I said to my wife, Catherine,
nothing good is ever going
to come out of that boy.
How wrong I was.
He always knew how
to make me laugh.
When he married your mom,
I was so hopeful.
I mean, that their
luck would change.
How about I get started
on the rest of dinner?
But that old farm.
Both of them changed.
Mr. Cashley.
Nothing good
ever came out of that place.
You could fix it up,
you could throw some paint
on it, but that place.
I know.
I know you know.
Listen to me going on.
No one needs to tell
you a damn thing.
How about get started
on dessert?
Avast, ye scoundrel.
I demand ye face me
a duel? To the death!
En guard!
You got me.
Woe is me.
I feel safe with you.
Not like with my parents.
You're allowed to
hate them, you know.
You're allowed to hate them.
Heavenly Father,
I repent all sin.
The sin of wrath, the sin
of anger, the sin of vengeance.
Excuse me.
Can I help you?
I'm sorry.
Is this your property?
It is.
May I ask you what
you're doing here?
Hi.
I'm Bailey.
I used to live here
as a little girl.
Oh.
I guess all the memories
aren't good ones.
I see.
I guess I'm just trying
to make my peace with it.
I'm sorry for the intrusion.
So you're still not gonna
tell me about your story?
Stop stirring up shit.
Come on, babe.
Just a hint.
Okay.
It's about a girl
who wants everything.
Ooh.
I, like it already.
But she doesn't
know when to stop.
And through the events
of the story, she learns
a valuable lesson.
Actually, she doesn't
learn a damn thing.
I'm going to Texas.
I'm leaving soon
I'm going to Texas.
I'm bending a spoon
I'm going to Texas.
Hello?
Hello?
Are you here all by yourself?
No, I'm here with you.
What, are you doing here?
Where else would I be?
Oh, honey, I.
I think you're lost.
What's your name?
It's Dakota, silly.
Well, that's a beautiful
name, Dakota.
Of course it is.
You gave it to me.
What are you talking about?
You gave me my name.
Mommy.
No!
Baby, you all right?
I think it's just
an intense dream.
Oh, yeah?
Well, if someone ever gives you
a hard time in one of your
dreams again, just let me know.
I'll kick his ass.
Maya was not inclined
to vengeful deeds.
Maya, was not inclined
to vengeance.
Predisposed.
Maya, was not predisposed.
Nobody's gonna give a fuck
what Maya is predisposed
to because nobody is gonna read
this mealy mouthed crap.
Fuck.
When can you come visit Bay?
Next Friday, for sure.
God, I miss you.
You get a chance to read
that stuff I left you?
Honestly, Bay, I just can't.
Half the girls on my cell
block are Christians.
It's enough already.
Mom, I'm, Afraid it's
only a few pages.
Look, you need to get
on with your life.
Meet some boys and maybe
have a little fun while
you're still young.
That stuff that happened
to daddy, it's not over.
Hey, listen.
I'm the one that
killed your daddy.
It was me, not some devil
in the cornfield.
Now just put all
this nonsense away.
I may be locked up, but there
is no need for you to be.
Okay, mom.
Now get some sleep.
I'll talk to you tomorrow.
Love you, Bay.
Love you, too.
Bye.
Take it easy.
Hey, man.
Can I get you anything?
As a matter of fact, barkeep,
I think you can.
What'll it be?
a pint of Steiner?
Steiner's?
Oh, shit.
Sorry.
Sometimes I forget I'm not
in the city anymore.
I'll have A, pint of whatever
swill the locals are drinking.
I'll have whatever he's having.
That'll be a, pint of Beechers.
Beechers?
Holy crap.
I didn't even know they
made that shit anymore.
Would you like
something else then?
No, no, no, no, no.
Beechers is fine.
It's perfect, actually,
for a place like this.
You know, there's plenty
of other bars to drink in if
you don't like it here.
This ain't got nothing
to do with you, pal.
Well, I think it does.
Look, why don't you just relax?
I'm just having a nice, quiet
beer by myself, all right?
You don't tell me to relax.
Look, I don't want any trouble
Yeah, too late.
Evan.
Look, you don't like
our beer, why don't you
just go across the street
to Murray's and get him to
pour you a pint of whatever
New York pussy swill you
drink?
Look, I think we got off
on the wrong foot.
Why don't I just buy you a beer?
I buy my own beer
Soy boy.
Take it easy.
Take it easy.
I'm not just.
Whoa.
Evan, Evan, Evan.
What?
This guy ain't worth it.
Trust me.
This guy a friend of yours?
This prick?
Yeah, you could say that.
Mike's new in town, a kind
of fish out of water.
Let's just cut him
a break. Okay.
For you.
Hey, no hard feelings,
I'll take a pint of Beechers
on my newfound friend here.
Actually, make that two.
I'll take him in back, Lloyd.
Sounds good.
See you later, kid.
Lloyd.
How the fuck did you do that?
I got his mom a sweet
deal on a townhouse.
I owe you a drink.
That's the least I can do.
Hey, Lloyd.
Another one.
So how's the house treating you?
Oh, a little peace and quiet is
just what the doctor ordered.
So your book is coming
together, then?
You're a pugnacious little
pecker, aren't you?
Hey, you gotta be a persistent
pecker in my profession.
Cheers.
You know, all in all,
this place isn't too bad.
It gets pretty lively.
These sleepy towns need a place
to let loose, you know.
Your first time here?
Yeah, I've been, chained
to the desk the last
three weeks, you know.
So the story's coming
together, then?
I don't know, man.
Freshman Zane changed my life,
made me a household name.
But that was 15 years ago,
and everything
I've published since then
hasn't amounted to shit.
You're kidding.
I love Moonlight.
Epoch it took some real risks.
The way it shifted
narrative style.
Oh, fuck off.
It was terrible.
My fans hated it,
critics hated it.
Hell, even I knew it
was a piece of shit before
it hit the press.
I get it.
I get it.
Freshman Zane was so fucking
great and everybody just wanted
the next story to measure up.
But, you know, then I started
to think maybe I only
got one good story in me.
You're right.
I wanted to love it.
But it didn't measure up
But this new book.
This is like nothing
I've ever written before.
You think this is gonna
measure up to Zane?
I'm saying it's gonna be better.
Better than Freshman Zane?
Oh, man, you can't leave
me hanging like this.
Give me details.
I told you, I don't fucking talk
about my works in progress.
Holy cow.
I can't believe this.
So what about you?
Sell any more murder
homes lately?
Ha, ha.
You really got a good deal
on that property.
But to be fair,
that murder was 12 years ago.
But it's not the only story.
What?
It's probably just a rumor
but the locals talk about
another violent happening
there back in the 50s.
I don't have many details, but I
could do some digging if you.
No, no, no, no,
no, please don't.
I can't have Pacey running
around scared shitless.
It's the last thing she needs.
She's got too much on her plate.
Wait, wait.
You mean you never told your
wife about the murder?
It was all laid out in
the disclosure documents. Luke!
Well, I certainly wouldn't
want to upset Pacey.
Why don't you tell me a little
bit about this new book
of yours. You know, you're
a lot slimier than I gave
you credit for. This book.
It's nothing like Freshman Zane.
It's not like anything
I've ever written before.
Female protagonist.
Whoa, whoa.
Okay, that's new ground
for a Michael Palmer book.
And it has none of the sunny
optimism of Freshman Zane.
This one is dark,
sensual, opulent.
Okay, so what's it about?
It's about hatred, envy, lust.
I got chills.
So, what's the premise?
You know, I think I gotta
call Pacey right now.
She told me to call.
No, no, Michael, you
gotta be kidding me.
This discussion isn't over.
Tell me about the book.
And when she gets to Panama,
she discovers the house she
purchased never even existed.
So Hector scammed her?
No, not Hector, actually.
Wait a second.
I'm not telling you any more
of my fucking story.
All right?
No more questions.
Sorry.
You know, I've dabbled
in writing, too.
Going way back to my
grade school days.
No kidding?
Yeah.
I've written some short
stories and even a play,
but never a novel, though.
I have an idea.
You should go for it.
Really?
Yeah.
Takes courage to write.
There's.
The first thing you write is
always going to be shit.
But you gotta get past
that if you're ever gonna
write anything great.
And that.
That takes balls.
You see, most people
can't handle criticism
and they just quit.
Wow.
You're right.
So the first thing
you wrote sucked.
No, it was great.
Because I'm,
Michael fucking Palmer.
I had this crazy idea
maybe after this we could.
Michael, please.
Don't.
No.
What?
Michael, are you all right?
I, Yeah.
Yeah, I'm fine.
You look like
something spooked you.
Are you sure?
Said I'm fine, I just
gotta get the out of here.
Just relax, Michael.
You're gonna get some sleep
and then you're
gonna finish your book.
That's all you gotta do.
Michael?
Pacey, what are you doing here?
Come join me.
I'm starting to think that you
don't have it in you, Mike.
What?
How the fuck can you say that to me?
Are you really the right
Man for the job?
I can do this.
I'm so close.
Sometimes I think your
heart is just not in it.
Pacey.
Michael, what are you
doing in the tub?
What happened?
I just had a bad dream.
Yeah, that can happen
after going on a bender
And you sleep one
off in the tub.
Yeah.
I think I must have fallen
in the tub when I.
You know, this isn't
the most comfortable place
to spend the night.
You know, there's a nice soft
bed just upstairs and you're
more than welcome to join me.
I'll be right behind you.
Pacey.
Yeah?
I love you.
Michael! How's my favorite fucking
client since one of my.
Your favorite client, Barry.
Wow.
Okay.
It's very hurtful, Michael.
Agents have hearts
too, you know.
All right. The last time we
talked, you said, and I quote,
don't ever call me again unless
you have something I can sell.
Yeah, I did say that.
I did.
But I said it out, of love.
It's called motivation, baby.
So.
So I sent you 113 pages.
Yeah, you did.
And you read it.
I read it, read it twice,
read it a third time sitting
on my little toilet.
I need to hear you
say it, Barry.
Hear me say, okay.
Well, it's the best fucking shit
you've ever sent me, Michael.
You happy?
I know it's my best work.
But it's so much more
than that, isn't it?
Good fucking God.
Okay?
It's genius, Mike.
It's fucking brilliant.
You're the Jesus
of writing, and I'm a little
peasant boy that goes
and fetches you water.
Okay?
You happy?
It's a start.
Jesus fucking Christ.
You writers are the most fragile
fucking egos in everyone.
And I'm talking about
fucking actors, too.
Now listen up.
Let's talk some business.
Now, right now, our little
love fest is over.
Fine.
Right.
So what you sent me was great.
It's fucking amazing.
I love it.
It's not enough.
I need at least 300 pages.
At least.
I'm giving you 400.
Incredible.
Fucking great.
I can sell that, no
fucking problem.
Okay, now one more thing.
And listen up, because I'm
not fucking around this time.
Okay?
Don't take this the wrong
way, because I know you
people are like delicate
little baby flowers.
You people.
I mean, writers.
Michael.
Jesus
Christ, shut up and pay
attention to me, okay?
Out with it
Barry.
I need an ending, Michael.
What?
I need a real ending, okay?
Cause what you've given
me so far,
it's a brilliant fucking setup.
It's got me fucking
hard as a rock.
Okay?
This fucking hard?
This fucking hard.
I'm like a sweet virgin who's
been promised the best
fucking night of her life.
Barry, if you're trying to make
some kind of an analogy, can
you hurry it along, please?
Okay, you writers are all set up
abd no delivery, okay?
So I'm not gonna be able
to sell this unless you give
me an ending that's gonna
make my little toes curl.
Okay?
I got your ending, Barry.
It's right up here.
You're just gonna have
to wait for it.
We're gonna make a lot
of money, baby.
I love you.
Now get back to work.
Whoa.
Hey, mom, can I get this?
It's only $6.
Sure, honey.
Looks like fun.
I'm sorry, I don't mean to.
Overhear
Yes.
That toy board your son wants.
I don't think it's a good idea.
Excuse me?
It's a Ouija board.
I mean, most people aren't
aware of the dangers,
but I appreciate your concern,
but frankly, it's none
of your business what
I buy from my child.
So you're okay with your child
talking to literal demons?
My name is Tucker.
Oh, my God.
Are you seriously one
of those born again nutcases?
Stop thumping your Bible
and take your meds.
Who do you think he's going
to be talking to?
On that board, crazy lady.
It's a game.
I used to play it all
the time as a kid.
Why does that not surprise me?
You know, it's wackos like you
who are okay with kids shooting
guns, but get freaked out
over a piece of cardboard.
Okay, I'm sorry if I came
off as rude, but if you just
listened for a minute.
That is not a toy, and your
son's gonna be in real danger.
Well, I didn't ask
for your opinion.
Now why don't you go
to the abortion clinic
and protest like the rest
of those Jesus freaks?
Can you believe that?
You need to keep your
son away from that
satanic piece of shit.
I'm, buying it, and you can't
do a damn thing to stop me.
Whatever. Psycho bitch.
What the hell are you doing?
Actually, I decided that I'm
gonna buy this for myself.
Hey, mom, she took my.
No one can mess with that
piece of crap again.
Okay.
Oh, what's that?
What?
No.
You got something?
What?
No, no.
Sorry.
It's like.
It's right back here.
It's like.
No.
Oh, shit.
Where did you get that?
I got it from some teenagers
up to no good.
You're such a badass.
Yeah, but you like the bad boys.
You know, one of those kids
actually thought I was a cop.
I don't blame them.
Seriously, I'm not a narc!
Pass it down.
That's it.
That's the shit.
This place is changing me.
Changing you how?
Changing me for the better.
I mean, it's like
making me more myself.
Far out.
Listen, though, I know you
know what I'm talking about.
This place is different.
No, I know.
I know exactly what you mean.
And when it comes to my
writing, that's when
the words start to flow.
It's almost like someone else
is doing the writing for me.
Isn't that fucking crazy?
So you're saying your
writing got better because
of this place?
You can have whatever
you want, Pacey.
You just got to tune in
to the right frequency.
Okay, I will.
Cool.
Mommy.
Dakota.
Mommy.
You came for me.
Mommy.
What's wrong, baby?
Are you hurt?
I'm scared.
Don't leave me.
Mommy.
I'm almost home.
I need you. baby.
Mommy, please.
It's okay.
It's okay.
It's okay.
I got you.
I got you.
I got you.
I got you.
It's okay.
It's okay.
You probably think I'm crazy.
You're not crazy.
You're just scared.
I was scared at first,
too, but that's because
I was fighting It.
You just gotta trust that
what's happening to you
is something good.
Good?
What do you mean good?
Sounds crazy coming out
of my own mouth.
But, Things just got better for
me when I stopped questioning
it, and I let it in.
Okay.
Mommy.
It's mommy.
Mommy.
Don't be afraid.
I'm ready.
I'm ready to be your mom.
Dakota.
Mommy. I'm afraid.
Mommy, please take me home.
Things just got better
when I stop questioning it
and let it in.
Pacey.
Michael.
Pacey.
How did you?
What are you doing up?
I missed you.
What?
You were right.
That was right
about
Hey, sporty.
Sporty?
No one's called me that
since we were little.
You used to kick everyone's
butt at ping pong.
You definitely were
the jock in church youth group.
And you were the brains.
I was just swinging by
to return this book that I
borrowed from Pastor Sam.
I didn't expect to see you here.
Yeah, I was just asking
for a little help.
Yeah, well, you're definitely
in the right place.
Is there anything you
want me to pray for?
Just strength.
Got it.
Hey, so I'm having a little
get together at my
house tomorrow night.
Nothing huge, just
a few friends.
I'd love it if you
came as my guest.
Bailey.
Caleb.
That sounds nice. But? I'll just
see you at church on Sunday.
Okay.
Hello?
Mikey boy.
Mikey boy.
What's happening, buddy?
To what do I owe,
this distinct pleasure, oh
beloved agent of mine?
Okay, I'm going to cut
to the chase, Michael.
You always do.
Yeah.
So these new pages
you sent me, they are fine.
They're fine.
But.
But they're kind of feeding
into this incessant paranoia
that I already have about you.
Because I know you.
I know you like a father
and like a son, and I know you
don't have a fucking ending
to this fucking story.
Barry, come on.
I see where the plot
is going, all right?
You're asking 100 million
intriguing fucking questions
that we're all dying
to know the fucking answer to,
but you're gonna give me
a bullshit fucking ending.
You want me to spoil the ending?
Cause I can do that.
I can tell you the fucking
ending right now, Barry.
No, I do not want
you to do that.
Please do not do that.
Then what do you want?
I want you to promise me
you can give me an ending
that I can fucking sell, okay?
Because I cannot
sell this unless.
Fuck off, Barry.
I got writing to do.
And don't call me again
unless you actually
got something to say.
Asshole.
I really need a Fucking ending.
The ending is right
here, Michael.
Where?
Right, here.
I'm just here to help
you set it free.
I'm just not convinced you want
it badly enough, Michael.
I do.
Then give me what I want.
Hello?
Luke.
Yeah, everything's fine.
Yeah, that sounds cool.
Why don't you head
over right now?
So that's actually good news
for the two of you.
That is that.
Well, yeah, it means the entire
length of the creek
passes through your property.
I was under the impression
it was part
of the neighboring estate.
Well, that's cool.
I got a creek.
You know, I actually went
through these woods,
and I didn't know there
was any creek at all.
It's just past the
Again.
So, you mentioned some bad
memories here in this house.
Growing up, my parents
fought a lot so I would
escape into the corn.
It's the only place
that I felt safe.
I'm sorry.
It's okay.
I'm not here to talk
about my past trauma.
I've been delivered
from all of that.
I'm here for you.
For me?
Hey, babe.
I just thought.
Oh, sorry.
I didn't realize
you had company.
Michael, this is Bailey.
She used to live here
in this house.
Long, long time ago.
Pleasure to meet you, Bailey.
Likewise.
It's a very lovely home.
Well, I'll stop bothering
the two of you.
I got, some writing to do.
Of course.
He's writing a novel.
Oh, that's so exciting.
So you had something to tell me?
This place. Have you noticed
anything unsettling?
What do you mean?
Okay, so why don't you just
come out with it then?
Don't indulge it.
He will promise you everything,
but it's just not worth it.
He?
Who's he?
Or she?
It can appear as anything.
Okay?
You just can't believe his lies.
I'm sorry, Bailey.
I don't know what
you're talking about.
He appeared to me
as a young boy in the corn.
Right out there.
He became my friend.
And when my parents would
fight, he told me he
could make it all stop.
A young boy told you
he could stop your parents
from fighting?
He called himself Oscar.
He appeared to me as a young
boy, but he could appear
to you as anything.
Whatever you deeply desire.
So you're saying that this
is some kind of supernatural
being in the cornfield?
James 4:7.
"So submit yourselves,
then to God.
Resist the devil, and he
will flee from you."
Okay.
Please, Bailey, I'm,
really not religious.
Just don't give him
a foothold, okay?
He will promise you the world.
But he's the father of all lies.
I'm agnostic.
I don't want to offend you
or anything, but I'm not
comfortable with this.
One day it got really,
really bad, and I ran out
to go find him, and I begged
him to make it stop.
And my mom took a knife,
and she just.
Dear God.
God had nothing to do with this.
I actually think I'm gonna
get started on dinner now.
You'll be joining us, Bailey?
Actually, I think I
better get going.
So soon?
Here's my address just in case
you want to stop by and, you
know, talk about anything.
Thank you.
I will.
Honey, do you
have a moment?
Yeah, sure.
What's up?
I just did a pregnancy test.
Okay.
I'm pregnant.
What?
God.
Oh, my God.
Pacey
you need to get some rest.
Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa,
whoa, whoa, whoa.
Pacey, it's all right.
It's all right.
Calm down.
Calm down.
It's okay.
I'm here.
I'm here.
I'm here.
What happened?
I couldn't.
I couldn't move.
And he's.
What?
I just need to get out of here.
This place, it's.
It's too much.
This place.
This place is fine.
You just had a dream, all right?
I promise everything's
gonna be okay.
You gonna stay awake with me?
Of course I will.
Come on.
I can't believe it.
You're pregnant.
I know I am.
Not wrong very often, but I'm
really glad I am this time.
I.
I can't explain it, but I guess
it doesn't matter now, does it?
No.
I'm going to prescribe a few
prenatal meds just to be safe.
I've been having some
sleep issues.
Okay.
I wake and I can't move.
I see things and I hear.
Sounds like classic
sleep paralysis.
It's nothing to worry about.
I mean, I can't move.
And the things that
I see, it's beyond.
That's normal.
There's been a lot of research
on the topic.
The things that you think
you're seeing are akin
to a waking dream.
But why is this happening.
Happening to me now?
A lot of things can
trigger sleep paralysis.
Stress, your recent move,
even your pregnancy.
I'm going to prescribe
a sleep aid for you as well.
Fuck off, Barry.
Fuck it.
Michael, I need an ending.
Where's my ending?
Michael.
Hey, babe.
Oh, hey.
You look exhausted.
How'd it go?
Everything's great.
I just need to rest
and take it easy.
That should be your only
priority right now, okay?
She gave me something
to help me sleep.
I think I'm just gonna
take a few of these and pass
out for the night.
I'm exhausted.
Well, you don't have
to worry about me at all.
I'm probably gonna be
up all night writing anyway.
Really?
I was getting worried about you.
The story's coming back?
Well, it sure is. Something fierce.
Michael.
Hey, Bailey.
Look, I'm really sorry to bother
you about this, but it's Pacey.
She's.
She's inconsolable and she says
she really needs your help.
What's going on?
She's been having these
episodes lately where
she sees things late at night.
I don't know.
I've been saying that maybe it's
just stress, but it's only
getting more and more intense.
And then I woke up last
night and she was gone.
And I found her running around
the cornfield in a panic.
The cornfield?
It's all so stupid.
And she refuses to see
a doctor about it.
Where's she now?
She's at home.
But she sensed that you're
the only one who can help her.
I'm just gonna go
check on Pacey.
I'll, be right back.
Pacey's gone.
What?
She's gone.
I don't know.
I guess she ran out again.
I gotta go find her.
Pacey?
Pacey, you out here?
I think I'm gonna go
check out the woods.
Listen, you should hang
back here in case Pacey
comes back to the house.
alright?
The girl, she's here.
You promised me an ending.
I did.
My ending.
I need it.
The accountant, the one
staying in the chalet.
What about him?
He loses all his money
to his sister.
His sister?
She's not even.
His sister is the one
who killed Lucas.
Oh, that's perfect.
I can't believe I missed it.
It's logical, and the audience
will never see it coming.
But how do I resolve.
Shut up
I want the girl.
Heavenly
Father, please pour out your
spirit and rescue your daughter
Pacey from this nightmare.
I know she's not
a believer, but please.
Bailey.
Bailey, you have
to get out of here.
Bailey.
Go.
Bailey.
No.
Please, just hear me out.
I won't hurt you.
Just leave her alone.
Leave who alone?
Pacey, just.
Just leave her.
Pacey is safe.
It's you that I want.
It's always been you.
Just stay away from me.
Why did you run away
from me, Bailey?
Your awful parents, they.
I never understood
you the way I did.
Stop.
Please, just stop.
Oh, I made it stop.
But you.
You promised me.
You'd Stay.
You have no claim on me.
Oh, but I do have a claim
on you, Bailey.
You made me a promise, remember?
You swore it.
No.
It was a blood oath.
I have broken all
bonds and oaths.
Through the blood of Jesus
Christ, I command you to leave.
Who are you to command me?
I have broken all
bonds and oaths.
Through the blood of Jesus
Christ, I command you to leave.
You think just by shouting his
name I'm gonna run and flee?
I know his name.
And he knows mine.
In the name of.
Of Jesus Christ,
I command you to leave.
In the name of Jesus Christ,
I command you to leave.
In the name of Jesus Christ.
Michael.
Good.
Now kill her.
I can't.
Yes, you can.
Michael.
Do this for me, and I'll
give you 20 more books.
Each one better than the last.
Michael.
Michael, what are you doing?
Pacey, just go back
inside, okay?
I've got this.
Just turn around
and go back inside, okay?
Michael.
Just put it down.
Pacey.
Don't act like you're
all innocent in this.
You know exactly
what's going on.
You felt it, too.
His power.
It's magnificent.
Michael, just put it away.
You can stop this.
I could.
But I won't.
I've come too far.
And so have you.
we've got to be strong right now.
We're so close.
But not this!
We can't.
What about our child,
What about my book?
I can take it all away, Michael.
Your book?
All your success.
I can take away your perfect
little innocent child.
No.
He lies.
He can't create life,
only destroy it.
I'm gonna end this once
and for all, okay?
For both of us.
Pacey, just walk away.
I don't want you to see this.
The child in you is from God.
It's not from him.
I'm sorry.
There he is, Mr.
New York Times bestseller.
Hi, Barry.
Hey gorgeous.
You know what?
I'm glad you're here.
You're gonna want
to hear this, too.
How was the meeting?
Meetings, Michael.
Multiple meetings.
Okay?
Meetings.
Which means multiple offers.
So it's a bidding war
for the movie rights
people on all sides of me.
Bloodbath, okay?
I'm covered in blood.
But you know what?
I don't mind.
Because you know what it means?
It means big money
for you, Michael.
Big fucking money.
Big money for all of us.
You mean Mr.
And Mrs.
Palmer?
We going to Hollywood, baby.
I'll send you all
the details tonight.
Don't worry about that shit
But for right now, as your
agent, I'm ordering you you
to pop that goddamn champagne
and celebrate with that
beautiful wife of yours.
Okay.
Thanks, Barry
Catch you guys later.
It's, my turn to
look after Dakota.
Stay.
I go.
I'm going to Texas I'm leaving
soon I'm going to Texas I'm
bending a spin I'm going to
Texas I'm going to Texas I'm
going to Houston she'll meet
me there I'm going to Houston
Forget with all my cares I'm
going to Texas I'm going to
Texas.
Sam.
I.